The Local Issue 208, November 30, 2020

November 30, 2020 Issue 208 Out of the frying pan...

The Local - The Heart of the Highlands

2 About Us

www.tlnews.com.au

Front cover: Helen and Andy Greenwood are former Daylesford residents who headed to Tasmania to live last year. As part of our series, Out of the frying pan...into?

Helen talks about Taswegian life during COVID. Read their story on page 23.

November 30, 2020 Issue 208 Out of the frying pan...

The Local is a weekly community publication covering the Central Highlands. The next edition is out on Monday, December 7, 2020.

Or online on Sunday, December 6 at www.tlnews.com.au Space bookings: Wednesday, December 2 Copy deadline: Thursday, December 3 Editorial deadline: Thursday, December 3 Managing editor | Donna Kelly General manager | Kyle Barnes

Image: Contributed

Sub-editors | Nick Bunning and Lindsay Smith Writers | Kevin Childs, Tony Sawrey, Jeff Glorfeld, Narelle Groenhout, Sandy Scheltema and Donna Kelly The Local - The Heart of the Highlands

Photographers | Kyle Barnes and David White The Local is a registered trademark of The Local Publishing Group Pty Ltd.

Graphic designer & HLH coordinator | Dianne Caithness

The Local is a member of the Victorian Country Press Association, with editor Donna Kelly, a director.

Contributors: Glen Heyne (gardening), Indre Kisonas (design), Glenn Robinson (cartoons) and Matthew Richardson (money) Accounts | Julie Hanson Delivery | Tony Sawrey

The content expressed within this publication does not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of The Local Publishing Group Pty Ltd. The Local Publishing Group's editorial guidelines and complaints-handling process can be found at www.tlnews.com.au We welcome all feedback.

Local Lines

Nonsense

It is what it is, and was what it was, None of it makes sense and that’s just because.

I can’t tell you why.

I really don’t know.

Is it just because, or is it just so?

No need to worry if it’s right or it’s wrong, just heed these few words, don’t ponder too long.

For if you don’t know, there was never a doubt.

It’s just one of those things to make you think about.

I’ve now said enough, I won’t give it away.

It’s not mine to tell, so I really can’t say.

- Gary Wilkinson Gary is married to Kerrie with two children and four beautiful grandchildren. He and his family have lived in the region for around 25 years and run a small Angus Stud in Blampied called Kyah Park Angus.

If you would like a poem considered for publication, contact Bill Wootton cottlesbreedge@gmail.com

5348 7883 or 0416 104 283 | news@tlnews.com.au or sales@tlnews.com.au See all our e-editions at www.tlnews.com.au

www.tlnews.com.au

Our councils 3

Mayor back at Macedon Ranges

W

EST Ward Cr Jennifer Anderson, inset below, has been elected for a one-year mayoral term with Macedon Ranges Shire Council.

It is the fourth time Cr Anderson will serve as mayor, having previously been elected in 2014/15, 2016/17 and 2017/18.

New mayor for Hepburn Shire

H

EPBURN Shire Council has elected Cr Lesley Hewitt (Birch Ward) and Cr Brian Hood (Coliban Ward) as Mayor and Deputy Mayor.

Cr Hewitt said she was honoured by the trust and responsibility shown by her fellow councillors and looked forward to working with them, (CEO) Evan King and the community to manage the impact of the pandemic and continue to provide the services and infrastructure the community needed and deserved.

Mr King congratulated them both, saying he was pleased to be working with them as they lead the council in the first year of the new council term.

"I look forward to working closely with both councillors, and the rest of the council team, as we move into a busy period, delivering important services and infrastructure projects for our community."

The first council meeting will be held on Tuesday, December 1 from 6pm. It will be virtual and livestreamed.

Above, Mayor Cr Lesley Hewitt with Hepburn Shire Council's Town Crier Philip Greenbank outside the Daylesford Town Hall Below, from left, Cr Brian Hood, Cr Tessa Halliday, Cr Juliet Simpson, Mayor Cr Lesley Hewitt, Cr Tim Drylie, Cr Jen Bray and Cr Don Henderson Images: Hepburn Shire Council

Councillors also elected fellow West Ward and first-time councillor, Cr Mark Ridgeway as Deputy Mayor.

Cr Anderson said she was looking forward to the year ahead, thanked her fellow councillors for their support and Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung elder Uncle Bill Nicholson, who performed a Smoking Ceremony prior to the council meeting, pictured below.

For thousands of years the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung have employed Smoking Ceremonies to cleanse places and people of bad spirits to promote the wellbeing of their people as well as guests on country.

Cr Anderson mentioned that Uncle Bill had shared a word which meant "unity" and, while she felt it not appropriate to use the word herself, it was appropriate to the coming together of a new council. “Unity is very, very important, both amongst our councillors, with our staff and the community, and I think united the Macedon Ranges has already achieved an awful lot of things and we can continue to do that together,� she said.

"Thank you for electing me as your mayor, and I know we are going to have a fantastic year together and a fantastic four years ahead."

Cr Ridgeway said he was very honoured to be appointed deputy mayor and was looking forward to supporting and working with the mayor and fellow councillors over the next year.

The first scheduled council meeting for the new council was held last Wednesday, November 25 and was livestreamed.

Images: Macedon Ranges Shire Council

E adve very ha lf-p rtis two ement age r shou social m eceives t e 500 -outs to dia 0 Now follow our ers. th influ at’s loca l ence !

Eat Drink Buy Local

Christmas shopping features - December 7 & 14 Get your message out to the rest of the Central Highlands Get your message in front of our 15,000 readers Banner: $166 plus GST - 225mm wide x 55mm high Quarter Page: $166 plus GST - 110mm wide x 148mm high Half Page: $332 plus GST - 225mm wide x 148mm high Full Page: $664 plus GST - 225mm wide x 300mm high Contact Kyle on 0416 104 283 | kyle@tlnews.com.au

Respect is choosing not to laugh at jokes that put women down.

Respect women.

Call it out.

To learn more respectvictoria.vic.gov.au

www.tlnews.com.au

Hepburn's new councillors 5

Vision for a sustainable future for Hepburn Shire

C

“Youth mental health is also something we will need to address and encourage.

Supporting meaningful youth mental health programs is vital now that we’re coming out of COVID-19. I’d like to see more affordable housing so that vulnerable people can continue to buy and rent within our shire. Local people need to be able to be supported to live, work and be part of their own town.

“Other important issues for me are looking at ways we can minimise our Cr Drylie grew up in Warrnambool and was involved in the community through waste through community-led resource recovery initiatives, looking after our food the local youth theatre and youth centre. He moved to Melbourne on a music producers and listening and responding proactively to the concerns of constituents. scholarship at University High School. He has a Bachelor of Arts in drama and music, “The community have spoken loudly for a real change at this election. I aligned and a Postgraduate degree in cinema studies. He was soon working for the ABC with the charter of Community Voice, a group of people who’ve come together TV drama division as an assistant director and tutoring at university level in cinema because of dissatisfaction with aspects of the previous council. They also see the great studies. potential of our shire to be a lighthouse community for leadership on issues such as He moved back to the country to raise his three children in Creswick, where he’s sustainability, community cohesion, social justice, and innovations in democratic lived for nearly 10 years. Tim runs a second-hand vintage furniture shop in Albert participation. We can be a beacon for other communities to look up to. My vision for Street with his partner, Holly. the shire is to celebrate sustainable living and embrace the power of community.”

“I wanted to become a councillor to extend my community involvement. I understand firsthand the importance of community connection and participation, and I wanted to be a part of that at another level. I’ve been involved with the Transition Creswick sustainability group, Creswick Neighbourhood Centre as coordinator of the successful Creswick Market, and as the vice president of Creswick Theatre Company.”

Cr Drylie is also on the Hepburn Z-NET roundtable committee where he is a home-energy efficiency assessor. Z-NET is a collaborative partnership bringing together community groups, organisations, experts and council to achieve a goal in Hepburn Shire of zero net energy by 2025 and zero net emissions by 2030.

“I’d like to look at different models and tools for community engagement and to better defend our local social, environmental and economic interests. To promote and extend sustainable practices and lifestyles to meet our 2030 emission targets in the shire is important to me. It’s about looking out for the diversity of life on our planet, With six of the seven councillors recently elected to the Hepburn Shire being new to and for the future wellbeing of our children. the game, a sense of optimism and hope exists for more positive interactions between “Another priority for me is helping create a more resilient, and abundant community and council. This weekly series by Sandy Scheltema will explore the new community as we come out of the pandemic by supporting and involving local councillors' hopes and wishes for the shire. groups such as small business owners, our artists, makers and local food producers.

r Tim Drylie arrives for his photo shoot in an electric car, which he is using to run test drives as part of the Hepburn Wind EV Bulk Buy. He enthusiastically tells me how he’ll plug it in to the power point when he gets home to recharge it. One of two new councillors for Creswick Ward, he has a vision for a sustainable future for the shire.

“I’d like to look at different models and tools for community engagement and to better defend our local social, environmental and economic interests.”

6 Our educators

www.tlnews.com.au

Principal and staff rise to COVID challenge

D

AYLESFORD Primary School, the oldest and longest running school in the town, has seen a lot of changes in its 155-year history.

With its historic, picturesque building, including the imposing original clock (despite a bent minute hand) and set among stunning gardens, the walls could tell a thousand stories.

None possibly as unbelievable and unprecedented as the story of remote learning 2020. When Daylesford Primary, along with its annex schools Yandoit and Drummond, faced the challenges and uncharted COVID waters like millions of schools worldwide, it was important to view the situation as something unique. School principal Brett Millott also realised that this would be a time that everybody in the community would need to learn a lot of new things very quickly.

Supported by the teachers, education and administrative staff and backed by the school council, Brett worked with his team to organise the 250-plus students, their families and carers in an effort to get the best possible result from the first lockdown phase.

Brett admits while all schools have action plans in place for unique scenarios, no-one could have really foreseen a pandemic.

“Immediately we knew technology was the vital component.

Families needed IT equipment and internet connection and we made sure they got it. We tapped into the community and we ensured every family had the support and access they needed for remote learning,” he said.

“Teachers, like thousands of Victorians, were working from home. It was an enormous undertaking and I don’t think anyone in the school community underestimates the work the teachers did over the two remote learning phases.”

While every family was faced with its own set of challenges, Brett said the first approach adopted was to try and replicate school with a focus on literature, numeracy and physical education as guided by the Education Department.

“That was our starting point. To encourage everyone to get into a rhythm and try to stay in the rhythm. But during the first lockdown we realised the importance of flexibility, knowing that every family was unique – many with multiple children, parents working from home, and uncertain times faced by everyone,” he said.

“Immediately following the first lockdown, the school council suggested that we survey families in order to generate vital feedback about the learning process. The response from the families was extraordinary and certainly influenced the way the school responded the second time around. “’The survey feedback was about flexibility and individual needs. So, we started planning for the scenario of another remote learning phase and worked on models that were tailored for individual families. Teachers engaged with the school community so we could meet the needs of all students and their requirements within their individual context,” he said.

Brett looks back over the past year and said it certainly had its challenges. But when he made the decision to move to Daylesford a few years ago, he was “looking for a challenge”.

“When you’ve been in the principal gig for a while you start looking around for other challenges,” he said.

“I’d been at schools in Melbourne, taught in the UK for a year, spent time in Austria on a short-term teaching exchange and taught in Vienna with a high migrant population which spoke three languages. Thankfully I could speak some basic German, and many spoke English so we engaged in multiple languages which was fantastic.”

“So, when the principal’s position became available in Daylesford, I took it.

I wanted the challenge of working in a regional school in a small community environment,” he said.

But the area wasn’t new to Brett. He has a long family connection from when his grandfather bought a property in Blackwood in 1938 – the property is still in the Coleman and Millott families.

“I’d spent a lot of time in the area as a child and the welcome shown by the community over the years was tremendous. Moving here to take on a principal’s role was a way of giving some of that goodwill back.

“The encouragement and advice I have received from Paul Nolan (senior education leader), local principals and the team from the Ballarat Regional Office has been fantastic. And the support from the local community has continued to this day,” he said.

Brett is a principal who, through his leadership and his team, has driven remote learning with compassion and courage over a one-size-fits-all curriculum style.

“We all had our ups and downs during the time but when the kids came back, they came back as a group, really switched on and it was like they really celebrated learning alongside their friends. It was a joy to see and the kids were fantastic throughout remote learning. The staff, students and families should all be proud of what they achieved,” he said.

...About that bent clock hand. A little digging has revealed it was local boy Nigel (small town, you’ll work it out) who, in grade 6 thought it would be a good idea for him and his mates to wrap a tennis ball in tape for additional strength. A pretty swift attacking shot sees the ball smash into the minute hand where it remains like that today…40-something years later.

Daylesford Primary School Principal Brett Millott with school captains Amelia (below left) and Tate (below right) with Naidoc Week Ambassadors Bianca and Bohdi who are among millions of kids around the world happy to be back at school following remote learning Words & image: Narelle Groenhout

www.tlnews.com.au

News 7

To bee, or not to bee

B

But catching a swarm is a very easy and cheap way to get yourself a hive of bees.

The society has a register of people interested in going out and catching a swarm. If a (presumably terrified) homeowner rings up 'the report a swarm number' on the Woodend Bee Friendly Society webpage, the Swarm Management and Allocation It seems that every other day someone is left wondering how to deal with a mass officer starts going down a list, making phone calls. The first person to answer goes of bees in their backyard. But there is a solution, and it is not calling in the pest out to collect. control guy. Rather you can report a swarm on the Woodend Bee Friendly Society But how in the world do you catch a swarm of bees? webpage.

“First of all you stay calm," says Matty. "You lay a sheet out with a box under the “Its origins go back to 2014,” says spokesperson Matty Be. “My partner Samantha swarm if possible, shake them if they are in a tree, and most of the bees will fall into Rixon, and David Gormley-O’Brien, went down to the Diggers Rest Bee Club, sat the box. Then you close the lid up a little bit and the bees will usually decide this is through a few of the meetings and thought it may be a good idea to start up a local bee group in the Macedon Ranges. Unlike an association like Diggers Rest which was better than where they were. Through the course of the day, all the rest will make made up of established apiarists they decided to concentrate on backyard beekeeping their way into the dark box in an orderly procession called a bee march. Typically you wait until dark when you use the sheet on the ground to wrap the whole hive up and and have an area of education for newcomers. They got 40 people at their first relocate it.” meeting.”

So, no problem at all. In fact Matty, who has been working with bees for over After a year or so the members decided to move underneath the umbrella of the six years, now looks after 10 hives, nine of which are from captured swarms. Seven Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group. Today, along with 11 others, they operate as an action group with the MRSG taking care of administration duties. That means the of them are awaiting members to take ownership of them. Sometimes the delay is Woodend Bee Friendly Society can concentrate on all the fun stuff, which is keeping because bees, being bees, sting.

Matty agrees: “Being stung is a big changing point for some people in beebees. keeping.

It can change a lot of people and brings with it an understanding of the Normally they have a monthly meeting (outside of COVID) where members spend time talking about what is needed to keep bees for the month in advance. They responsibility and occasional perils associated with looking after them.” also run designated beekeeping courses twice a year and do practical bee handling Pictured above,Woodend Bee Friendly Society leadership team, top row from days. And, it should be noted, the society members are not commercial beekeepers. left, Paul Green, David Gormley-O’Brien, Sally Scanlan, Shelly Andrews, Typically they do not rob the bees of their honey, they are more concerned with bee health and wellbeing and limiting competition with native species.

Matthew Croatto and Nev Spiers, bottom row, Samantha Rixon, Matty Be Competition usually comes about during swarming season. A queen bee may and Emma Collins make the decision to expand and find a new home which puts bees in competition Words: Tony Sawrey | Image: Supplied with possums, bats, birds and other native fauna for suitable nesting sites.

EE friendly. Bee friendly to each other and bee friendly to those busy, buzzing, winged creatures currently swarming in big noisy clumps all around the Central Highlands.

Cold beers on tap and great local wines.

Sunday spit roast dinners and a summer menu with loads of shareable options.

Exceptional service with food to match SPEND SUMMER AT THE DAYLESFORD HOTEL LUNCH FRI - SUN 12-3PM DINNER 7 NIGHTS FROM 6PM DAYLESFORDHOTEL.COM.AU

We’re upgrading the Ballarat Line As part of Victoria’s Big Build, the Ballarat Line Upgrade will deliver more frequent and reliable services for growing communities in Melbourne’s outer western suburbs, Bacchus Marsh, Ballan and Ballarat.

Better stations, more services and improved reliability We've built a new station at Cobblebank and upgraded Rockbank, Ballan, Bacchus Marsh and Wendouree stations.

Trains are using the 18km of track duplication between Melton and Deer Park West, helping boost reliability along the entire line.

Locals are already benefitting from two new peak services – one in the morning and one in the afternoon – between Melton and Southern Cross Station.

Following commissioning, critical safety testing and driver training, more services will be introduced for communities along the Ballarat Line. This will include more services during peak times and trains every 40 minutes during off-peak.

More benefits to come Major construction is now finished but there’s still work to be done to get the new track and signalling ready for more new services.

During the five-week disruption, track duplication will be completed between Bacchus Marsh Station and Maddingley and at two level crossings in Ballan.

These works will allow passengers to begin using the new platforms at Ballan, Bacchus Marsh and Wendouree stations.

They will also give trains more options to pass each other using the new tracks at these stations and new passing loops at Ballan and Millbrook.

Benefits for the local economy The Ballarat Line Upgrade has created more than 400 jobs, with benefits for local businesses and suppliers.

The project’s investment in local economies has benefited more than 40 regional contractors and suppliers, including water carters, concrete manufacturers, fencing contractors and equipment rental companies.

Regional Rail Revival The Ballarat Line Upgrade is being delivered as part of the Regional Rail Revival program, which is upgrading every regional passenger rail line in Victoria and creating jobs and local supplier opportunities across the state.

Coaches replace trains From 28 December to 30 January on the Ballarat, Ararat and Maryborough lines for all or part of the journey.

There will also be local road closures with detours in place.

Coronavirus and Victoria’s Big Build Works on the Ballarat Line are progressing with strict COVIDsafe Plans in place.

The health and safety of our workforce and community remains our top priority.

For more information and advice about the coronavirus (COVID-19), please visit coronavirus.vic.gov.au.

For more information, visit regionalrailrevival.vic.gov.au/ballarat or call 1800 105 105 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week).

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

719

Find out if you’re affected at bigbuild.vic.gov.au

Building lifelong relationships

W

ITH a backdrop of rolling hills in the picturesque outskirts of Ballan, dogs and their owners meet on the town’s oval for weekly obedience training. Some are in groups, others are one-on-one.

With a mix of breeds, and of all ages and temperaments, instructor Madeline Briggs patiently sets about making sure the dogs and owners have the skills required for a lifelong relationship. For Madeline, being a training instructor is more than just teaching dogs the basics.

“Owning dogs is a lifelong commitment. Just like young children, dogs need to know boundaries and consequences and our science-based training methods help all dogs to fit within human culture. We are not about quick-fix measures to stop undesired behaviours. We are devoted to working closely with dog owners in order for them to have wonderful ongoing relationships with their dogs,” she said.

Madeline’s love for dogs was inspired by her upbringing where dogs were always a major part of her family. For years she volunteered at various obedience clubs and her passion led her to trialling in dog sports across Victoria.

Her aspiration to open an obedience school was realised when she met her partner Peter Mazzone, a registered German Shepherd dog breeder, as their combined expertise and love of dogs just made sense.

Five years ago, Ballan Companion Dog Training and Von Goron German Shepherds was born.

“We both have a passion for allowing all dog owners to have a wonderful experience with their dogs. Over the years I’ve seen so many damaged relationships due to dogs being trained with intimidation rather than trust. I truly believe there would be fewer dogs in shelters if there was a better understanding of the importance of training. Even if dogs are rescued, there are still so many techniques to use so all dogs and owners can flourish,” she said.

Madeline says so often dogs are relegated to the backyard, given their indoor behaviours. They might start digging, barking or trying to escape. It all comes down to nurturing and taking the time needed to help the dogs learn the basic skills required for them to respond to their owners.

Even over COVID and when restrictions meant some people couldn’t attend classes, Madeline hosted Zoom meetings and presented online videos to ensure noone missed out on vital training and obedience skills.

The couple, who recently welcomed baby daughter Mya to their menagerie of cats, mini pigs, rabbits, German shepherds, a doberman and dalmatian, have already built up life-long connections with dog owners. As part of their business acumen, once a German shepherd puppy leaves their property, the relationship continues.

“Our puppies leave us with lifetime support in obedience/behavioural training.

We are there for the owners every step of the way to make sure their relationship is fostered through ongoing training and socialisation. As registered breeders we value the importance of ethical breeding and believe that the ongoing support with the families and their pooch is vital.”

So, whether a puppy or an older rescue dog has entered your family, Madeline believes the one way to ensure the relationship will stand the test of time depends on the owner’s patience and care and the trust built up between man and his best friend.

Words: Narelle Groenhout | Image: Supplied

Community News Mayor & Deputy Mayor Elected

International Day of People with Disability

International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD) is a United Nations observed day celebrated internationally. It aims to increase public awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability and celebrate their achievements and contributions.

At the statutory meeting held last Tuesday, Council elected Cr Lesley Hewitt (Birch Ward) and Cr Brian Hood (Coliban Ward) as Mayor and Deputy Mayor.

Mayor, Cr Lesley Hewitt said, “I’m honoured by the trust and responsibility shown by my fellow Councillors and look forward to working with them, Mr King and the community to manage the impact of the pandemic and continue to provide the services and infrastructure our community needs and deserves.”

Evan King, CEO, congratulated Councillors Lesley Hewitt and Brian Hood on their election.

“I’m pleased to be working with Councillors Lesley Hewitt and Brian Hood as they lead Council in the first year of this new Council term.

I look forward to working closely with both Councillors, and the rest of the Council team, as we move into a busy period, delivering important services and infrastructure projects for our community,” said Mr King.

16 Days of Activism Council is proud to support Respect Victoria to deliver its Respect Women: ‘Call It Out’ campaign. The campaign is part of the global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, which runs from 25 November to 10 December.

The theme of this year’s campaign is ‘Respect Is ... ‘ and messages of equality and respect will be highlighted across the state.

We believe that it’s time to actively promote gender equality and take a stand to end men’s violence against women.

Council is running a number of initiatives to support the campaign including giving participating local cafes sleeves for their coffee cups with Respect messaging.

We are also working with networks such as women’s health services, familiy violence networks, libraries and local businesses to spread this important message.

CONTACTS 

General enquiries

5348 2306



@

Mail Email Website

PO Box 21, Daylesford 3460 shire@hepburn.vic.gov.au hepburn.vic.gov.au



Aged & disability services enquiries - 5345 8399

Often when we think of someone living with a disability, we think of those with ‘visible’ physical disabilities like those requiring wheelchairs or a guide dog. But there are also lots of other disabilities, invisible disabilities that aren’t so easy to identify.

The term invisible disability refers to diseases or injuries that aren’t always obvious to an onlooker. These can include chronic pain and fatigue, dizziness, cognitive dysfunctions, brain injuries, hearing and vision impairments, learning differences or mental health disorders.

For more information on IDPwD visit www.hepburn.vic.gov.au/ international-day-of-people-with-disability/.

Works in Pearman Street Creswick Council is seeking community and user input into the upgrade of Pearman Street, Creswick. Due to the increasing vehicle and pedestrian volumes, Council is planning on upgrading and sealing the section of Pearman Street between Water and Victoria Streets.

The works are planned to include a new pedestrian and cycling link, which forms part of the Creswick Creek Trail, Goldfields Trail and a connection between Hammon Park Reserve and Calembeen Park.

To achieve all of this in a limited space, it is proposed to make Pearman Street one-way Northbound. Having Northbound traffic will remove the need for many righthand turns at Water and Albert Streets, whilst maintaining access for local traffic not originating from Albert Street. It will also help facilitate movements around the local CFA station.

Designs are at a preliminary stage, and community input will be considered when finalising the design prior to construction.

If you would like to have your say, or access the full set of preliminary plans, please email the Council Officer at tpowell@ hepburn.vic.gov.au.

For after hours emergencies please call:  Animal Control - 0419 587 955  Other Council Emergency - 0419 583 573 hepburncouncil

www.tlnews.com.au

Our history 11

Keeping up with the Joneses in Clunes

M

OST people are aware of Clunes’ gold mining history. It was home to Victoria's first registered discovery, made by one William Campbell in 1850. Up to the 1890s, gold powered the town’s growth and gave it many fine buildings which survive relatively intact from ornate public halls to austere worker cottages.

But when mining eventually came to an end, Clunes, like many resource boom towns, started to wither. By the 1930s the population had drastically declined and the place was practically a ghost town. Those who remained had to find jobs in the factories of Ballarat, as agricultural workers or they went hungry.

One of the families who remained were the Jones family. They were descended from William Jones, a native of north Wales who came to work the mines in the 1860s. While the elder Jones left Clunes for richer pickings in Western Australia, many of his children and grandchildren remained in what became a quiet backwater.

One of those descendants was Lloyd Jones, born 1933, who produced a book in 1989 about his childhood years, Just a Boy From the Bush. It is a highly detailed account of life growing up during the depression years in Clunes and regional Victoria and a window into another world.

Lloyd's father Edward Jones was a typical rural worker of the time, moving from job to job, depending on the season in order to provide for his wife Florence and 13 children, as Lloyd recalls: “Throughout his long working life, my father was a ‘jack-of-all trades’ - a man who could turn his hand to almost anything. He was a most proficient shearer - and for virtually all of his adult life was a member of the Australian Workers' Union.

During the Summer months he was usually employed in harvesting, he was an expert at building fences and fancied himself as a bush carpenter. On top of all that he kept us well provided with vegetables from his garden.”

At a time when roads were poor and not everyone could afford a car to travel them, life in places like Clunes was both insular and self-sufficient. Every place had its garden and large store of firewood with some other necessities provided by regular visits from the butcher, grocer, fruit vendor and chaff man. While Clunes was finally connected to the state electricity grid in 1938, the average house lacked this technological marvel along with all the toys and conveniences powered by it. Which meant of course, poor old Florence (Ed was often away working) had to take care of all the household duties, including cooking, cleaning and washing by hand.

But kids such as Lloyd and his siblings could not be loafers and were expected to carry some of the load. In his memoirs, much of what he did outside of school was expressed as youthful adventure including snaring rabbits, collecting loads of firewood in the middle of Winter and feeding, rounding up and milking a mob of cows every morning and night. One could also see his activities as child slavery, it all depends which way you wear your rose-tinted glasses.

“Finding the cows (on the Clunes public common) and bringing them home was virtually a daily occupation for most of my school days. On these daily trips I certainly learned all about the vagaries of our climate and I doubt whether the memories of extreme heat and biting southerly winds will ever leave me.”

Lloyd Jones spent most of his youth living in the family home in Canterbury Street on the north side of town. Backed on the town common, it was a modest weatherboard cottage with a corrugated tin roof built from 1860 to 1880. These days when a person decides to build their regional dream home they usually lay down the entire edifice all at once, working off a comprehensive plan. Besides being horrendously expensive up front, it also takes a greater time to build. Which is funny considering all the tools and construction conveniences we have today. Nothing could be further from a typical working man's house back then which was built small and quickly, then extended over time as needed.

“Originally there were two front rooms built at a higher level than the rest of the house,” writes Lloyd. “Gradually the size and shape of the building altered somewhat as the years went by and the family increased. A front verandah and wooden dairy which served as a bedroom, with various sheds and outside lavatory at the rear of the block, completed the picture.”

In those times, the house sat between two vacant blocks. The land around Clunes was mostly bare and wandering goats munched on gorse and blackberry bushes in Creswick Creek. A far cry from the leafy surrounds of the former Joneses' family home which still stands today.

Pictured, above, the Joneses' family home in the 1930s from the book Just a Boy From the Bush and courtesy of the Clunes Museum Pictured, below, the house today Words & second image: Tony Sawrey

www.tlnews.com.au Head to The Local's website for Country Life podcasts: Tony Sawrey on the Joneses family life in Clunes; Tony Sawrey with Matty Be on the Woodend Bee Friendly Society; Donna Kelly on Just sayin'...; Kyle Barnes on Kyle's Rant; and Donna Kelly and Kyle Barnes on Issue 208.

12 Happy & Healthy

www.tlnews.com.au

Forgiving Tree

Trentham

H

T

forgiven. Items collected will be distributed to local food banks within the Hepburn Shire, to support the community.

A Forgiving Tree program is a judgement-free process for borrowers with fines to remove charges that they may have been avoiding or unable to pay.

The Forgiving Tree will run from Tuesday, December 1 to Friday, January 8 at the four Hepburn Shire libraries – The Warehouse – Clunes, Creswick Hub, Daylesford and Trentham Libraries.

For every item of non-perishable food donated, $5 worth of fines will be waived from a patron’s library card.

Items outstanding must be returned and this does not apply to charges associated with missing or damaged library items and is only valid for Hepburn Libraries collection items and patrons.

Contact Clunes Warehouse – 5345 3359, Creswick Hub – 5345 2145, Daylesford Library – 5348 2800 and Trentham Library – 5424 1326.

Coliban Cr Brian Hood said Trentham and districts were changing.

"There are increasing numbers of young families and retirees coming into the area and we want to ensure we meet their needs as well as those of current residents.

"We do offer activities for young families but suspect we could be doing more to meet the needs of retirees.

According to the 2016 Census 51 per cent of Trentham’s population is retired.

"People new to the area, particularly retirees, may wish to meet others and make new friends, learn in new areas and take part in interesting group activities.

The purpose of our consultancy process is to determine whether this is the case, and if so, to identify what retirees and others would be interested in.

"The consultancy process will occur by taking individual input (verbally and in writing) and by running some group discussions. Everyone in the area is welcome to participate in the consultation process - the more input we receive the better we can meet the needs of the whole community."

Anyone who wants to take part in the community consultation can contact Anne-Marie Pedeau on 0417 081 611 or by email on ampedeau@gmail.com

EPBURN Shire libraries will once again be running a Forgiving Tree fine amnesty over the Christmas period.

I

Your Say

RENTHAM Neighbourhood Centre is N THE interests of my own good mental health holding a community consultation process I avoid reading conversations on local social to help its role in providing support for the media pages.

The campaign was a great success last year with over cultural, social, educational and recreational needs The general lack of decorum and the virulent 700 items of food donated and $3540 in overdue fines espousing of hostile views can leave one in deep despair of all people in the district. for days.

So I was disappointed but not surprised to read that former councillor and mayor, Licia Kokocinski, had been forced to defend herself against statements made on social media. (Your Say, Edition 207) By all means it would be great to see more engagement with local government, but let's hope the proponents of a better way have the courage of their convictions and are prepared to attend council meetings and make polite reasoned arguments for a better community, rather than haunt the dark and depressing realm of the social media platforms.

- Pat Hockey, Clunes

Letters to the editor, and even musings, are always welcome. Keep them to the point and shortish if possible. Please include your full name, town and phone number for verification. Any addressed Dear Sir, or signed off "Angry of Hepburn" will be deleted.

We’re here for you

The Companion Group

Welcome to the team

Going far?Go further!

Dr John O’Neill

• Sexual Health • LGBTQI • Mental Health • Women’s Health • Wellness Management

(incl. Diabetes, Respiratory & Heart Disease)

• Men’s Health • Aged Care • Skin Dr John O’Neill is now practising at our Daylesford & Kyneton Clinics.

To book your appointment, call our reception team or visit our website and book online.

www.springsmedical.com.au Daylesford Kyneton Trentham 10 Hospital St 89B Piper Street 22 Victoria St tel: (03) 5348 2227 tel: (03) 5422 1298 tel: (03) 5424 1602 Follow us

https://www.facebook.com/springsmedical

We support you!

The Companion Group are now based in Hepburn Shire.

Individual support, support coordination, assistance with health, wellbeing and exercise, help around the home and everything in-between. Customised care, specific to your needs.

• • • • •

Personalised Disability, Aged Care & Mental Health Services Assistance with daily living In-home & out of home support Personal Care / Transport House Cleaning & Safety Service Contact Paul or Samantha to inquire M: 0448 802 226 P: 03 5377 3665 or email info@thecompaniongroup.org For more information visit thecompaniongroup.org

A registered service provider under the National Disability Insurance Agency and Victorian Department of Health and Human Services.

Dr Julia Hailes (PhD) Mental Health Kinesiology

SUE’S PLACE

Dr. Susanne M. Heringslake Chiropractor Moments To Ponder a little gift from me to you

TRUST

Upstairs in the old Victoria Hotel 57 Vincent Street | 0488 229 940 Registered Member of the Australian Institute of Kinesiologists

Do you keep people happy & healthy?

Advertise here.

Show us what you’re made of!

Our new medical Body Composition Analyzer helps your doctor better assess your health, by breaking down your body weight into its components with medical precision.

Book online: www.campaspefp.com.au CampaspeFamilyPractice Phone: 5422 2877 Located at Kyneton Hospital: 7-25 Caroline Chisholm Drive, Kyneton

A somewhat small word, yet big in meaning and even BIGGER and MORE EXPANSIVE in experience.

No matter how much I think I trust, I still discover when I let go of control, I trust a little more.

Contemplate it.

For all enquiries and to book appointments, please contact: Dr Susanne M Heringslake Chiropractor Mobile: 0407 301 352

House.Land.Home.

DAYLESFORD & CRESWICK

DAYLESFORD 11 MILLAR STREET

CRAFTSMAN RENOVATED HOME Located 500 mtrs and a gentle stroll to the centre Daylesford, this superbly renovated residence sits on a large allotment of approx 886 m2 and offers long views towards Doctors Gully. The home is beautifully positioned with a northern aspect allowing great natural light to flood the house. This delightful renovation has high-quality fixtures and fittings such as fully tiles bathroom and ensuite, island bath, frameless shower screens, quality joinery, new cooker and dishwasher and ducted heating/cooling throughout.

This home would be ideal as a permanent residence, weekend country getaway, or to offer on the permanent or holiday accommodation market.

a3 b2 c2 FOR SALE PRICE $829,000 CONTACT Michael DeVincentis 0417 142 152 OFFICE 43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328

HEPBURN 3 FOURTEENTH STREET PERFECT COUNTRY LIVING CLOSE TO DAYLESFORD Delivering a true sense of country living with its rural outlook, views to the nearby hills and a bushwalking track at the end of the street this immaculately presented home with 4 bedrooms, 2 living areas and 2 bathrooms is located just minutes of Hepburn Springs village and just 5 minutes’ drive to Daylesford town centre. Being sited on an allotment of approx 800 sq.m, this property will suit a broad range of buyers seeking a low maintenance and solid country home for permanent living, weekend retreat or rental investment.

a4 b2 c6

FOR SALE PRICE $610,000 CONTACT Rae Corris 0408 358 772 Curtis O'Neil 0423 904 050 OFFICE 43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328

ID and contact details are required at all open for inspections

HEPBURN SPRINGS VILLA 6/1-7 CRIPPA CLOSE LUXURY DUAL OCCUPANCY VILLA IN HEPBURN SPRINGS A contemporary and spacious 2 bedroom villa designed for dual occupancy is located in the heart of Hepburn Springs.

With a common entry foyer, the villa is built over 2 levels and can be configured as a 2 bedroom self contained villa or as a private 1 bedroom suite and 1 bedroom apartment Ground floor: 2 large bedroom suites both with 2 person spa bath, deluxe ensuite bathrooms Upper level: spacious living area with large undercover balcony, full kitchen. Split system, gas pebble fireplace

a2 b2

FOR SALE PRICE $625,000 fully furnished CONTACT Rae Corris 0408 358 772 Curtis O'Neil 0423 904 050 OFFICE 43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328

bigginscott.com.au

DAYLESFORD & CRESWICK

GUILDFORD 300 SHICER GULLY ROAD

"HILLTOP" - LIFESTYLE PROPERTY WITH ESTABLISHED BOARDING KENNELS & CATTERY Located in central Victoria just 3 minutes from the township of Guildford approx.

18 min to Castlemaine, 24 min to Daylesford and 90 mins to Melbourne.

This property presents a lifestyle opportunity with an income from Hilltop Boarding Kennel, which is a highly valued long established, well-run facility with plenty of return customers that can provide an immediate return.

Positioned on 11.11 ha [approx 27.5 acres] of undulating pastures in Farming Zone. Fully fenced with sight wire and divided into several paddocks suitable for horses or other livestock. There are 4 dams and a groundwater bore as well as ample rainwater tank storage.

a5 b2 c4 FOR SALE Contact Agent CONTACT Michael DeVincentis 0417 142 152 Tom Shaw 0438 118 903 OFFICE 43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328 TRENTHAM 17 VICTORIA STREET

HISTORIC HOUSE "LELANT" First time offered in over 40 years. Here is your opportunity to purchase the historic “Lelant House” in the tightly held, cosy township of Trentham. It is situated opposite The Lake and only 200 meters to High Street. Only 20mins to Daylesford or 20 mins to Woodend offering a rail link to Melbourne. Sitting on approx. 1372m2, the house remains largely in original condition with many intact period features including open fireplaces with ornate timber surrounds, original timber wall and floor linings, veranda detailing and even the concrete laundry wash trough and original ‘copper.’

This home is just waiting for the right person with imagination, determination and commitment to renovate this property into one of Trentham’s Grand Homes.

a3 b1 c2 FOR SALE PRICE $895,000 CONTACT Michael DeVincentis 0417 142 152 OFFICE 43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328 ID and contact details are required at all open for inspections

bigginscott.com.au

House.Land.Home.

Golden huntsman

Huntsman spiders, especially the golden huntsman (beregama aurea), have been seen around in the past few weeks, bringing about a few anxious enquiries. It is uncommon for them to be found indoors, they tend to live beneath the bark on the trunks of large eucalypts and other native trees, feeding on moths, cockroaches, crickets, flies and other spiders. They are neither aggressive, nor dangerously venomous, but the adults do have large fangs and their bite is quite painful. The good news is that they are rather timid and, like me, would rather run than fight. You probably didn’t want to hear this but they apparently make good pets.

Venomous caterpillars

Peta came into my study to announce that there was a weird but pretty little caterpillar sunbaking on the edge of our birdbath. “Come and look before a bird eats it!” “It” looked like nothing I’d ever seen in a garden, more akin to the current rash of those multicoloured kids’ toys. I remembered that many of the multi-coloured, highly decorated moth or butterfly larvae have a secondary defence mechanism - either stingers amongst their finery or they squirt lethal substances when threatened.

I couldn’t find any defining references to that particular caterpillar, but realised that it is one of the native cup moths. Needless to say both we and, obviously the birds, have left it to its own devices.

Not so welcome guests

This recent burst of warm Spring weather, alternating with days of heavy rain storms has brought about great bursts of strong growth and crowds of colourful flowers in gardens everywhere. But, like all good stories, there has to be a downside in this case also armies of aphids, snails and other plant-chewing or sucking pests.

Fortunately in any natural, organically-controlled garden, for every form of pestilence, there’s at least one equally ravenous predator critter ready to pounce.

Among these are the little wasp-like hoverflies, preying mantis, katydids and more - all doing their best to maintain order, but not always as welcome as you would expect, especially when they decide to try their luck indoors...like our friendly neighbourhood huntsman.

Now, I admit to being a bit of an arachnophobe ever since my early teens and the embarrassing examination of my nether regions, by a lady doctor, due to an all too close encounter on our outdoor toilet seat...but I do appreciate the noble huntsmen and the role they play in cleaning up vermin - even if I get the heebie-jeebies if one pops up on the wall over my bedhead.

Alien outcrops

This week I received an emailed plea for help and several photographs of unhappy potted plants that had been attacked by what appeared to be rather rancid scrambled eggs. Many of the leaves were looking the worse for wear as well.

The plants, growing as they are in the window of a salon, would be subject to a warm, dry atmosphere, open to straying chemical vapours from sprays and probably over-watered. In other words, the usual environment for many indoor plants.

The remedy is simple: Cease watering and allow the soil to dry out; scrape away and remove any sign of fungus; spray the soil several times at weekly intervals with a tablespoon of baking soda mixed into two litres of water; cut off any dead or dying leaf stems; evacuate the plants to a warm, shady outdoor spot to rejuvenate; and water the plants by giving them a thorough soaking and water again only when the soil is dry down to knuckle depth. You can bring them back indoors as soon as you see signs of recovery.

Got a gardening query? Email glenzgarden@gmail.com

Bells Water Gardens @ Newlyn

Bells Water Gardens has been in the water garden business for over 25 years, building and maintaining ponds and growing a diverse range of aquatic plants for the nursery trade and public.

We are passionate about building natural eco-system ponds, adding beauty and encouraging wildlife, allowing interaction with nature. Water gardens built by us are quiet, contemplative places to rest and energise the senses.

Contact us for all your water garden requirements or come and see our nursery at 1 Campion Rd, Newlyn.

0418 567 195

WAREHOUSE SALE Quality Carpets at an Affordable Price

Multi Level Poly Loop $36.90/sq.m.

Cut Pile Poly Twist $42.35/sq.m.

Extra Heavy Duty Solution Dyed Nylon $48.90/sq.m.

Fully installed on Airstep Blue Luxury Underlay

Call in and see Harry, Graeme or Jill for your flooring requirements.

OPEN: Monday-Friday: 10am-4pm Saturday: 9am-1pm 1a Mink Street DAYLESFORD | P: 5348 4097 | E: daylesford@qualityfloorz.com.au

www.qualityfloorz.com.au

FLYSCREENS MEASURED,

MADE, AND FITTED ON THE SPOT! FROM $ 00

03 5464 7380

• Roller Shutters • Security Doors • Fly Screens

59

SECURITY DOORS MADE TO MEASURE AT FACTORY DIRECT PRICES *Conditions apply.

Hepburn Shire & Ballarat

Now I’ve downsized, I’m living my best country life.

Brand new boutique retirement village in Trentham.

•

Sunlit two bedroom units

•

Spacious, open plan living

•

Superb location, amenities closeby.

Call Brent to find out more.

McAuley | Retirement Village 1 Bridge Street, Trentham

0408 956 114 vmch.com.au

Phone: 03 5464 7380 or Michael 0422 643 901 Email: sales@onsiteflyscreensballarat.com.au www.onsiteflyscreens.com.au

www.tlnews.com.au

18 Crossword

W RD

CROSS

services

SEPTIC SYSTEM INSPECTION & MAINTENANCE

LAND CAPABILITY ASSESSMENT

services

SEPTIC SYSTEM INSPECTION & MAINTENANCE

SEPTIC SYSTEM INSPECTION & MAINTENANCE

WISH MOVING HOUSE WAS THIS EASY? No matter if you are moving into the area for the first time, moving to the big smoke or just moving across town - we will take care of you and your prized possessions like its our own home we are moving. Locally owned and operated, Oz Trans are the leading local removalist and general transport specialists in the entire Daylesford and Central Highlands region for over 25 years.

PERIODIC INSPECTION AND REPORTING OF WASTEWATER TREATMENT SYSTEMS TROUBLESHOOTING AND MAINTENANCE SUPERVISION OF SLUDGE PUMP-OUT

• Home, piano and commercial removals • House packing services • Sensitive freight • All kinds of art cared for

LATEST SLUDGE-JUDGE TECHNOLOGY

www.sanae-svcs.com.au

PO Box 1040, Daylesford, VIC 3460 koos.hulst@sanae-svcs.com.au (03) 5348 4852 or 0437 747 619

Here is the solution for Crossword Issue 207.

How did you go?

FREIGHT · TRANSPORT · REMOVA LS DAY L ESFO R D AND CENT R AL HIGH LAN DS

• Furniture deliveries (new & second-hand) • General freight and produce cartage • Bulk freight, dry and chilled • Packing supplies available CALL JASON 0407 697 877 WWW.OZ-TRANS.COM.AU

REGULAR RUNS TO MELBOURNE, GEELONG, BALLARAT, BENDIGO AND EVERYWHERE IN-BETWEEN.

www.tlnews.com.au

Adventure bingo!

P

EOPLE are encouraged to get physically active across the Loddon Campaspe region while having some fun at the same time by taking part in Adventure Bingo - a new initiative from the Healthy Heart of Victoria.

Adventure Bingo invites people to collect or download an Adventure Bingo booklet and participate in a walk in each of the six participating local government areas. Macedon Ranges Shire’s walk is along the Campaspe River in Kyneton. Spot the points of interest listed in the booklet during your walk and once you’ve spotted three items in a vertical, horizontal or diagonal line, you’ve got Bingo.

There are a series of weekly prize draws which will be conducted from Monday, November 23 to Sunday, December 13. Residents who submit a photo of their completed Bingo card to hhv@bendigo.vic.gov.au will go into the draw to win sporting equipment. Participants can send a photo of themselves at one of the sites on their Bingo card via Facebook message to Healthy Heart of Victoria to enter a special photo prize draw.

The Macedon Ranges Shire Adventure Bingo walk commences at the Kyneton Library on Mollison Street and continues in a circuit back to the library, via the Campaspe River Walk. Bingo booklets are available for free at Kyneton Library or online at www.mrsc.vic.gov.au/healthy-heart.

Healthy Heart of Victoria coordinator Alicia O’Brien said Adventure Bingo encouraged physical activity in the local region in a fun and simple way, especially for children and families.

“It also provides a free opportunity to explore walks in our region in a COVIDsafe way as the walks are outdoors, self-guided and can be done individually or in very small groups,” Ms O’Brien said.

Recent data released by AusPlay has shown that children’s physical activity levels were heavily impacted by COVID-19. The data highlighted that less than one in five Australian children were active in organised activities outside of school during COVID-19 lockdown.

“Even before the pandemic, there were concerns that children were not moving enough, and with students learning from home for much of 2020, with no access to a playground at lunchtime or organised sport after school or on the weekends, the research has shown that levels of inactivity have increased during this time.

“The Active Living Census told us that walking is the most popular physical activity across the Loddon Campaspe region and so through Adventure Bingo we hope residents are encouraged to have a bit of fun when out on a walk.”

Other Adventure Bingo walks are located in Rochester, Maryborough, Bendigo, Wedderburn and Castlemaine.

Holistic Funeral Directors

Sustainable & authentic funerals Call 5427 3112 visit NaturalGrace.com.au

News 19

Fight against AusNet

C

OMMUNITIES in Victoria’s west are joining Stop AusNet’s Towers to try to force the Western Victorian Transmission Network Project back to the drawing board.

AusNet plans on building 190km of high-voltage transmission lines and towers linking Bulgana, north of Ararat to Sydenham.

Stop AusNet’s Towers spokesperson Emma Muir said AusNet was proposing to build 380-high-voltage transmission towers through farms in Victoria’s food bowl, bushfire-prone landscape and protected state parks and native habitat.

“If AusNet gets its way, this project will devastate our communities. Bushfire risk will skyrocket, high-value agricultural land that feeds Victoria will be destroyed and land values will plummet.

“This project will cause immeasurable economic damage to local farmers and irreparable harm to the environment and landscape – to say nothing of the amenity and liveability of our region and the wellbeing of residents.”

Stop AusNet’s Towers has been launched by the Moorabool Central Highlands Power Alliance, a coalition of landowners, residents, businesses and community groups united in their opposition to AusNet’s proposal for overhead power lines.

“We support renewable energy and want green energy generated in Western Victoria connected to the rest of the state. But overhead powerlines are unsafe, inefficient and will destroy our precious landscape. Underground transmission might be more expensive to install, but it’s safer and more efficient.”

Stop AusNet’s Towers is holding events in communities impacted by the proposal.

They will be held at Creswick Market, 21 Victoria Street, Creswick on Saturday, December 5 from 8am to 1pm, Darley Market, Darley Reservation on Saturday, December 5 from 8am to 1pm and St Anne’s Market, St Anne’s Winery, Garrads Lane, Myrniong on Sunday, December 13 from 10am to 4pm.

Meanwhile, a media release said AusNet Services was working to narrow down the project corridor and that local communities had already “provided incredible local insights and raised their concerns, which goes a long way to helping AusNet Services develop the project corridor”.

AusNet Services project director Francisco Vizcaino said an online mapping tool showed that biodiversity, agriculture, forestry and historical heritage were top priorities for many local communities. There was also community concern around bushfire risk, health impacts, route selection and overhead lines.

The release said developing the critical infrastructure would contribute to Victoria’s economic recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic, boosting jobs and economic activity for local communities along the corridor.

Link: www.westvictnp.com.au

20 Opinion

www.tlnews.com.au

Pick me, pick me

Just sayin’...

By Donna Kelly

I

WAS watching the news this morning, well not really the news, more morning television with a two-minute bit that calls itself news - with half of that given over to sports.

Anyway, there was a 10-second bit about a "rare 1977 LX Torana" once owned by race car driver John Harvey, which could sell for up to $2 million.

It got me thinking, not about buying it because quite frankly if I had $2 million the last thing I would buy is an old car, but about my first car, a Holden Sunbird.

(Interesting Wikipedia fact: Sunbirds are pretty much the same as Toranas but a little shorter in the chassis and instead of six-cylinders they have just four. The word Torana comes from an Aboriginal word meaning "to fly" while the Sunbird is named after an Australian bird with long thin down-curved bills and brush-tipped tubular tongues, both adaptations to their nectar feeding. You're welcome.)

I bought my sky-blue Sunbird when I turned 18 and got my driver's licence. Yes, you say, that is pretty normal, but I have two nephews, one who turned 21 last Friday and still to get his P Plates and another who waited until 23 to learn to drive. Kids.

Anyway, it was my pride and joy. I think I paid about $1000 and it was just about the only possession I owned. I also bought a car cleaning kit and cushions for the back seat. Embroidered, white. I don't know what I was thinking.

For a four-cylinder car it went like the clappers. Fish-tailing now and again in the wet. Over-revving when the choke was left out too long on those cold mornings.

(People under 40, ask an old person what a choke is.) And I remember the tap dance of the high-beam button on the floor and the clutch. (Again, people under 40...)

But as enamoured as I was with my Sunbird, I secretly coveted both of my Dad's cars. One a Holden Kingswood, maybe 1968, nice and square, white with red leather trim. He gave it to my older brother, I think hoping he would see the historic value, but who promptly traded it in for an ugly 1980s Holden Camira.

Dad then bought a genuine one-owner 1970 Chrysler Valiant. A sleepy six which, at the lights, could leap off the starting blocks like the launch of a space shuttle. Dad had great fun revving the engine next to Frankston would-be rev heads and then leaving them behind by about a mile. When Dad died in 1986 my Mum gave that to my younger brother, who promptly wrote it off in a crash about two days later. My brother was fine.

Meanwhile, I had been heading overseas and sold my Sunbird to my sister, who promptly wrecked the engine in an incident involving a scarf and leaning in under the bonnet to apparently see how things worked. My sister was fine.

Now I drive a Mitsubishi Triton and a Toyota Camry. Nice and safe. But maybe if I had $20 million I would think about that Torana. Just sayin'...

'

Hey there, I am Puf Puf. I am a 10-year-old bloke looking for a nice quiet home for my retirement years. I used to live with kids when I was younger but it just became too noisy and busy. You know what I mean. I just want to laze around, take it easy and have a few cuddles. MC# 978102100017163 BR100938 Mount Alexander Animal Welfare is in Castlemaine. Call 5472 5277 to make an appointment.

(Pick me, pick me is run in memory of Rosie and Curly - we picked them!)

The Local - Connecting the Community

T

he Local is all about Connecting the Community. We run good news stories about amazing people and places, and festivals and events. And our fantastic advertisers run great deals for locals and visitors alike.

To give back to the community, The Local has been running its Connecting the Community adverts for eight years. The adverts are for not-for-profit groups and organisations to lend a hand when finances can be a bit tight - or just don't exist. We all know how hard it can be to make volunteer-run organisations work on the smell of an oily rag!

To apply just email donna@tlnews.com.au with your event or organisation. We also put call-outs on our Facebook page and those of the various communities in our wonderful region. We work on a first-in basis, with a nod to time-lines too.

There are a few conditions, well mostly that not-forprofit bit, and also that you aren't grabbing a free advert and then we see a whacking big paid advert in other media. That wouldn't be fair.

Cheers, Donna (Ed)

Are you Trans or Gender Diverse, living in the Central Vic region and would like to meet other TGD community members?

C o b a w

a n d

C H I R P

c e l e b r a t i o n

D a t e :

D e c

' i n

a r e

j o i n i n g

p e r s o n '

1 4 t h

a t

a n d

5 p m

-

P: Cobaw 5421 1666

t o g e t h e r

w e

w o u l d

P l e a s e

g e t

t o

h o s t

l o v e

i n

f o r

t o u c h

a n

e n d

y o u

f o r

t o

o f

y e a r

j o i n

u s .

d e t a i l s

E: admin@cobaw.org.au

P: CHIRP 5470 1000 E: SClow@cdch.com.au

Cobaw Community Health is a sucessful applicant of the TGV SPARK program.

www.tlnews.com.au

Opinion 21

Kyle’s Rant

A

NOTHER year is ending, the hint of Christmas is in the air. I can tell by all the sales emails that are pinging into my inbox. What is this Black Friday rubbish that keeps hitting my spam account?

Black Friday has nothing to do with Australia but, like bunch of shopping sheep, Australians are now part of the whole Christmas procurement picture, following American dreams like Halloween and Valentine’s Day. Black Friday is an informal name for the Friday following Thanksgiving Day in the US, the day regarded as the beginning of the Christmas shopping season for the Yanks, not us.

Australia doesn’t exactly have a history rich in Pilgrim fathers and pardoning turkeys, we have our own history and milestones to remember, so let’s give back the stupid Black Friday sales and clean up our inboxes.

Speaking of pardoning turkeys, this is something the President of America does every year. They wrestle a huge, white feathered turkey onto a podium with hundreds of cameras pointed at it, frightening the life out of the poor fowl, I imagine. Then it is approached by something that looks remarkably similar and certainly comparable in intelligence aka Trump (or is that being rude to the turkey?) and the poor creature is told it gets to live another year. Or at least until the media circus is gone.

Speaking about the end of the year, we are getting close to that point in about four weeks when it is time to reflect on what you liked from the year. And let's face it, it is 2020 so the list is not exactly long.

For me, one of the things that I have had to battle with is technology and this is because we embarked the year with a clear objective here at TL HQ and that was to make our editorial flow into multiple channels to keep up with the digital age and complement our print magazine.

Granted, around the middle of March our plans were hosed down for a week or two while we rocked in the corner blowing bubbles, trying to figure out the way forward, however we stuck to our commitment and now are up to speed with the digital world. For those reading this, it means you have multiple opportunities to read, listen and engage with our editorial.

You can jump on our Podcast, check out regular posts on Instagram and Facebook and not only read the online magazine but get spoon-fed the featured stories. Then there is the real estate feed - live listing all local properties as they come on the market in real time. All available through our new website www.tlnews.com.au You're welcome, turkey and blatant plug rant over…

(Ed's note: Hmmm. Who bought Rodd & Gunn shorts online on Friday?)

TRENTHAM PETROL & .....................................

STUFF Petrol, oil, swap & go gas, Motorpass, farm produce, farm produce store, ice, milk, soft drinks, take away pies, coffee, confectionery, local honey, etc Rusty junk, secondhand books, old wares

..................................................

1 Market Street ~ ph: 5424 1611

Monday–Sunday 8aM~6pM

PALMER STEVENS & RENNICK Barristers & Solicitors Property and Conveyancing Criminal Law Family Law Wills and Estates Commercial Law Employment Law Appearing in Castlemaine Court PLEASE CONTACT US

(03) 5422 6500 SINCE 1852

8 Jennings Street, Kyneton Email - psr@psr.net.au | Website - psr.net.au

7 acres of well organised, easy to navigate, recycled goodness in the heart of castlemaine.

Salvage Yard

Structural timbers, hundreds of doors and windows, landscaping timbers, ex-commercial double glazed glass, steel, masonry and found objects... right down to hard to find hardware and homewares!

Now also supplying a range of small production, sustainably sourced new timbers for flooring, decking, overlay and cladding.

Also, manufacturers of custom designed engineered trusses from recycled timbers.

6 Lewis Drive Castlemaine • 0435 500 112 • www.thesalvageyard.com.au

Listen now at www.tlnews.com.au Let’s support our community and shop local!

“Locals supporting Locals”

Restaurants, Bakers, Butchers, Cafe’s, Local vineyards, Distillers, Brewers and of course each other.

Remember we offer free delivery, T&Cs apply.

Delivery times are Monday to Saturday between 10am and 4pm.

We accept credit cards over the phone or we have an on-board eftpos machine. You will need to be at home for the delivery with proof of age if asked by the driver.

Give the Foxxy team a call on 5348 3577.

Keep safe, everyone.

Our exclusive range of award winning, world class products including Herbal Liqueurs, Gin, Vodka, Tawny, Liqueur Fruits & Candles make perfect gifts to both give and receive.

Treat yourself & your loved ones to only the finest this Christmas & New Year!

For Tastings & Sales Visit: Lot 2 Railway Crescent, Daylesford VIC 3460

03 5348 1920 December Trading Hours: Fridays to Mondays from 10am - 5pm Tuesdays through Thursdays by appointment Closed December 24th to 26th & January 1st

terraaustralisdistillery.com | herballoreliqueurs.com

Dele Foodstore & Catering

Tailored catering & ready-made take home meals, made with local and ethical produce.

Chat to the Dele team about how we can help cater your next event.

Our new store in Trentham has a great selection of take home options, plus you can grab a bite to eat in store.

DAYLESFORD Unit 1/37-39 East Street

Mon- Sat: 12pm - 7pm TRENTHAM 41 High Street Mon - Fri: 3pm - 7.30pm | Sat-Sun: 10:30am - 7pm

5348 2462 | info@dele.com.au

www.dele.com.au

Out of the frying pan...into ???

We were all very relieved, when after 21 days of being COVID-19 free, we were finally able to book accommodation or visit personal beach ‘shacks’ for the Queen’s Birthday weekend (ironically, a week later than Victoria). It definitely was a turning point for Andy and I to start exploring Hobart again.

I suppose from the other side of the fence, we were totally shocked when Victoria announced they were opening up accommodation and decreasing restrictions. It was a week ahead of us and we hadn’t any cases for 14 days at that point. And then you guys were opening whilst you still had cases.

NDY and I had been happily living in Daylesford fully anticipating We also couldn’t believe how minimal the fines were for breaking the rules. The our retirement there, when he got offered a job at MONA. It was whole of Tassie was talking about it. So I’m pretty sure that other states were too. It obviously, too good an offer to refuse. cost the country a lot of money and also put its people through a lot of mental and What at first was a daunting move soon turned into an amazing adventure. financial anguish that could have been prevented if Daniel Andrews had just waited Uprooting ourselves wasn’t easy, but it’s been so exciting - new jobs, new friends, new longer. restaurants, cafes and bars and a new home. And of course, we’ve got the whole of He should have done the first time around what he did for the second wave. I do Tasmania, with its many pristine natural wonders to discover and enjoy. feel sorry for him though. He knew he’d stuffed up big time and he did a good job Not only has the change of scene been a revelation and one we’ve totally embraced, of finally getting it sorted. but it’s also been an important reminder that we shouldn’t get too set in our ways.

So yes, we know that you went through hell, although we can’t appreciate it. We And just to prove that point, along came COVID-19. It quickly became apparent spent a lot of time on Zoom with our Melbourne friends - three in particular who that we’d timed our relocation to Tasmania perfectly, especially as the premier Peter lived in one-bedroom apartments. One of them doesn’t even have an open view.

Gutwein went in hard to protect his island state.

But hopefully, it’s over now. We are still anxiously hoping that it doesn’t return Along with the national restrictions, penalties were high if anyone here was caught to any serious degree again. And for those who know us, you’ll not be surprised to flouting them. A whopping $16,000 for some of the more serious breaches. It certainly hear that we’ve been doing our utmost to support the Tasmanian economy. seemed to have the desired effect, with Tasmanians quickly pulling together to support Meanwhile, in the UK, they’re having 20k new cases a day and they’ve not fully each other and do the right thing by emergency service workers. The police were also locked down. The country is in uproar… used to regularly check up on all home self-isolaters, which was also encouraging.

We were both so fortunate in not losing our jobs and being able to work from Image: Selfie by Andy Greenwood home. As we’d not long moved into our new house, all of our additional free time was spent planning and carrying out improvements and setting up the garden.

Luckily, the strictly enforced restrictions meant that Tasmania wasn’t in full lockdown for very long. Slowly, cafes, bars and restaurants opened, along with general retail stores.

IT'S been an 'unprecedented' year and for most Central Highlands residents it's been one of lockdowns but also open spaces for enjoying masked walks.

But for some former residents it's been a different year. Some better, some worse. "Out of the frying pan...into ???. In the second of our series, former Daylesford resident Helen Greenwood talks about life in Tasmania with her husband Andy and pooch Chewie.

A

24 Out & About

Gigs

www.tlnews.com.au

with Darren Lowe

Guildford Family Hotel, Guildford Crosswind - Friday, December 4, 7pm The Old Married Couple - Saturday, December 5, 7pm Mark Wardle with Barry Fitzpatrick & Fred Lakerink - Sunday, December 6, 1pm Mick Coates & The Shallow Gravediggers - Friday, December 11, 7pm Charlie Bedford - Saturday, December 12, 7pm The 3-Chord Club - Sunday, December 13, 1pm Christmas Quiz Night - Thursday, December 17, 6pm Cartwheels Christmas - Friday, December 18, 7pm A Swinging Christmas with Jazz Deuce - Saturday, December 19, 7pm Carols by the Barrels with Terry & Gillian - Sunday, December 20, 1pm

Daylesford Cider Co., Musk 3 Acts - Friday, December 4, 5.30pm-8.30pm Sunset Stranger - Saturday, December 19, 4pm-7pm (above) Mandy Connell - Saturday, January 2, 4pm-7pm (below)

Got a gig happening, finally? Email news@tlnews.com.au

To market, to market

Y

OU can find everything you need at weekend markets, from fresh fruit and veg to handmade jewellery and wares, throughout the Central Highlands and surrounds. Here are just a few.

Daylesford Sunday Market – every Sunday Wesley Hill Market - every Saturday Daylesford Farmers Market – first Saturday Trentham Neighbourhood Centre Makers Market - first Saturday Golden Plains Farmers Market - first Saturday Woodend Farmers Market - first Saturday Castlemaine Artists’ Market – first Sunday Trentham Community Group Market - second Saturday Kyneton Farmers Market - second Saturday Ballan Farmers Market - second Saturday Kyneton Rotary Community Market – second Saturday Maldon Market – second Sunday Clunes Farmers Market - second Sunday Trentham Farmers Market and Makers Market - third Saturday Glenlyon Farmers Market – third Saturday Leonards Hill Market - third Saturday Creswick Market - third Saturday Talbot Farmers Market – third Sunday Woodend Lions Market - third Sunday Trentham Station Sunday Market - fourth Sunday Buninyong Village Market - fourth Sunday All markets subject to COVID regulations and not all may be operating.

Check first.

The Local Classifieds Innovative Farm Implements Specialised implements for most types of farming

WANTED TO RENT Granny flat or cottage in Hepburn/Daylesford area.

Long lease, quiet, reliable tenant. Ph: 0412 356 906.

Small and large acreages All soils and conditions Check us out

Ask Mike: 0418 508 573 info@fixengineering.com.au

The Annual General Meeting of the Hepburn Springs Golf Club Inc., will be held on TUESDAY, 15 DECEMBER 2020 at the Clubhouse at 7.30pm.

AGM notices will be posted on the Clubhouse notice board.

www.fixengineering.com.au Links to YouTube working models If it isn’t quite what you’re looking for, If it doesn’t quite do what you want, If you have some ideas of your own to explore:

HEPBURN SPRINGS GOLF CLUB Inc

All members are invited to attend, B Files (Hon Sec) Don't be shy.

Say it here.

Are you a tradie? Advertise here.

Daylesford Spa Country Railway advise that as of the 5th of December 2020 trains will recommence running between Daylesford and Bullarto.

These test trains may travel at any time or day of the week and are part of the requirements to recommence public services later in the month.

Motorists and pedestrians should be vigilant approaching any level crossing between Daylesford and Bullarto ensuring they can stop if required.

Particular care should be taken to be aware of an increase in track maintenance vehicles over this period.

By order of the Board.

Clement F Mooney

Email: c.mooney@bigpond.net.au Available to assist with all general accounting services and preparation/electronic lodgment of Tax Returns and BAS for Individuals, Sole Traders, Partnerships, Trusts and Companies.

Tel: 03 5424 1441 Mobile: 0412 584 555 Office: 19 Albert Street, Trentham 3458

A.B.N. 37 961 487 978

Certified Practising Accountant Registered Tax Agent B.Com, C.P.A., M.B.A.

30 November 2020.

Support your local tradies!

Consulting in Administration & Management Book-keeping Administration Payroll Temp service Supplier monthly reconciliation Qualified to manage a small team of office workers

Hepburn Earthworks

Drives, drains, moving dirt, excavation, $400 half day $750 full day man and machine.

Caterpillar Bobcat, excavator and Dual Roller.

Phone: 0438 662 203

Christ Jules Services Julie Hanson 0459 619 701 julphil.hanson@gmail.com

Ballan Ballan Plumbing Pl20u007 m065b410 ing ABN: ABN: 20 007 065 410

Licenced Plumbers & Gasfitters

5368 1036 / 0419106518

www.christjulesservices.com.au

www.ballanplumbing.com.au

ALL ROUND CARPENTRY

Wastewater ABN: 69 105 671 412

Systems

1800 020 093

www.wastewateraus.com.au

Ph:0434 357 882

Pierre: 0425 783 871 SOLUTIONS | SOLUTIONS SOLUTIONS | SOLUTIONS

POOL AND SPA MAINTENANCE SERVICES DAYLESFORD AND SPA COUNTRY Over 25 years’ experience in the Pool and Spa industry.

Cleaning and servicing of pools, hot tubs and jacuzzis.

Water chemistry and water balance Commercial properties Domestic applications Reasonable rates All enquiries welcome Noel 0419 554 319 Declan 0438 212 107

PLASTERER DAYLESFORD FIBROUS PLASTER WORKS (MACKLEY’S) • NEW HOMES • RENOVATIONS • CEILING ROSES • ORNAMENTAL CORNICE Daylesford

Peter Mackley 5348 3085 or 0418 571 331 Gary Mackley 5348 1108

Are you a tradie? Advertise here. 5348 7883 Daylesford Newsagency & Tattslotto Newspapers, magazines, Tattslotto, drycleaning, stationery, photocopying and lots more...

55 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2061

trenthamselfstorage@outlook.com Servicing commercial refrigeration domestic and commercial air conditioning

Servicing the local community for over 45 years

Phone: 5348 1291

Ballan Plumbing

Sales-Service-Maintenance-Installation -Mobile coolroom hire Garry Rodoni: 0417 734 206 Chris Milham: 0436 402 730

E L E C T R I C I A N

John Roberts Electrical Services REG 15644

Domestic Commercial Industrial Mobile 0439 682 619

das3460@bigpond.com ABN: 20 007 065 410 DAYLESFORD Licenced Plumbers & Gasfitters APPLIANCE SERVICE 5368 1036 / 0419106518

electrical appliance repair service www.ballanplumbing.com.au washer, dryer, fridge, dishwasher, oven, cook top etc.

Call Kiyo on

0419 267 685 Wastewater

das3460@bigpond.com

ABN: 69 105 671 412

Systems

Specialists in the installation, servicing & maintenance of all wastewater treatment systems.

1800 020 093

www.wastewateraus.com.au 1800 020 093

Malone Tree Services Liam Malone . Limited Access . Fully Insured .Specialists Qualified . Mulching Available

0423 945 436

www.wastewateraus.com.au

PH: 0400 059 613 - 5348 6634 ADMIN@JESSEDAWKINSGARDENS.COM.AU WWW.JESSEDAWKINSGARDENS.COM.AU

The Little Local

T U

O

E E FR e! m e k a T

!

W O N

Summer 2020

EAT | ADVENTURE | STAY | RELAX WELLBEING | WHAT’S ON | SHOP