Front page: Get ready to indulge your senses and support a great cause at the 2024 Lyonville Bake Off.
The annual event returns on Sunday, October 27, from 10.30am to 3.30pm at the Lyonville Hall on Bremner Avenue, promising a day full of delicious fun and friendly competition. Read about it on page 24. See you there!
Image: Kyle Barnes
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The Local is a fortnightly community publication covering the Central Highlands of Victoria.
The next edition is out on Monday, October 21, 2024. or online on Sunday, October 20 at www.tlnews.com.au
Space bookings: Wednesday, October 16
Copy deadline: Thursday, October 17
Editorial deadline: Thursday, October 17
General manager: Kyle Barnes on 0416 104 283 or kyle@tlnews.com.au
Editor: Donna Kelly on 0418 576 513 or news@tlnews.com.au
Editorial: Eve Lamb on 0493 632 843 or editorial@tlnews.com.au
Sub-editors: Nick Bunning, Lindsay Smith & Chester the Cat
Writers: Eve Lamb, Kevin Childs, Tony Sawrey, Kyle Barnes & Donna Kelly
Photographers: Kyle Barnes & Eve Lamb
Graphic designer: Dianne Caithness
Contributors: Glen Heyne (gardening), Darren Lowe (music), Sarah Lang (recipes), Clive Hartley (wine) & Bill Wootton (poetry)
Accounts | Julie Hanson Delivery | Tony Sawrey
Walk out for final Hepburn Shire meeting
The final meeting of the Hepburn Shire Council for 2024 went awry as three councillors left before a vote could be held on the final agenda item, a confidential planning matter.
With the three councillors gone, and only three remaining - with the resignation of Juliet Simpson earlier this year - a quorum was no longer met.
Those who left were councillors Tessa Halliday, Tim Drylie and it is believed Jen Bray. Ms Bray said as the matter was confidential she could not comment on it. Those who remained were councillors Brian Hood, Don Henderson and Lesley Hewitt.
Council CEO Bradley Thomas said four councillors were needed to meet a quorum so the meeting finished with the matter not voted upon. It had however already gone before council with a decision made earlier this year.
That decision was then upheld by Mr Thomas.
Mr Thomas said it was not completely unusual for councillors to walk out of meetings but they were usually meetings open to the public and done to make a stand on an issue. “This one is a bit weird because it was in the confidential section of the meeting so it is difficult for people to know what that stand was. But it is not illegal, councillors have the right to be in the room for whatever items they want to vote for.
“In this case three councillors decided for their own personal reasons that they didn’t want to vote on the matter so they left the meeting.”
Mr Thomas said the planning item had a previous decision so it would not return to council. “From our point of view the matter is now closed and we have moved on and done what we needed to do with the planning permits. There are different personal thoughts on whether councillors should leave a meeting but there is nothing to stop them or force them to be in a meeting, that is the process we have.”
Mr Thomas said the issue had come back to council because “extra information had come to hand” and he made the decision to put it back on the agenda for the council to vote again with that added detail.
“Ultimately they didn’t make a decision because there were not enough (councillors) in the room and I have gone with the original decision.”
Tim Drylie, one of those who left the meeting, said he understood there was some community concern about councillors walking out without making decisions, calling it “somewhat extraordinary”.
“I am happy to go on the record, but as it was a confidential matter there is not a lot I can actually say, and I can only speak for myself.
“I am certainly standing on the platform of transparency and accountability in local government. It just makes it difficult to discuss the reasons behind it but fundamentally for me, it was a complex decision which involved ethical and legal issues around what was appropriate in that instance.
“It was not just a matter of walking out, it was a more complex situation. In this instance it was about accountability and transparency around that particular matter and also noting the CEO has stated it has not affected the overall situation in the broader scheme of things.
“It is certainly not a decision I took lightly and certainly not something councillors consider as a normal part of doing business – we are very respectful and understand the gravity of our position and the importance of governance and behaviours.”
Mr Drylie said it was not something that had been planned but rather “thought through on the day”. “It was based on the evidence that was before us and I made up my own independent mind on that.”
Tessa Halliday, who also left the meeting, said she did not believe the council should have been voting on the issue which already had a decision in play and unresolved outstanding legal issues.
“It would not have been fair to the applicant, they have done nothing wrong.”
Words: Donna Kelly
“We are very respectful and understand the gravity of our position and the importance of governance and behaviours.”
- Tim Drylie
Above, clockwise, Hepburn Shire CEO Bradley Thomas, Tessa Halliday and Tim Drylie | Images: Hepburn Shire Council
Respect, care and comfort at Hepburn House
I never imagined Mum would move from our family home in Traralgon - her home for nearly 60 years.
But after experiencing some health issues and coming to the realisation that living alone was no longer practical or safe, she made the decision to make Hepburn House her home during a respite stay.
It was in her own time and on her terms. It wasn’t long before mum embraced her new chapter at Hepburn House.
The welcoming front office staff provide the first introduction to a truly warm experience. Whether you meet the physios, the cleaners, personal care staff, nurses, engaging activity organisers, the much-loved in-house tradie or the gorgeous staff who ensure cuppa time is never missed, everyone is focused on the wellbeing of residents and their families.
Hepburn House gives you real comfort in the aged care sector by with residents being shown so much respect and care.
Over the past six months Mum’s transition has been a joyful experience for her and the whole family. Of course it’s an emotionally difficult time leaving your home, friends and community. But the team at Hepburn House has helped Mum to easily settle into her new home.
Being able to pop in just two minutes down the road to see Mum is a far cry from a five-hour drive and I love that she is now so close. Importantly, the decision to move was Mum’s, and I’m incredibly proud of her determination to adjust to her new home. But for Mum it is all about how easy the team at Hepburn House have made it.
“The care is wonderful. Nothing is too much trouble and whether it is day or night the staff are always close by. The compassion and support shown by the staff across all areas make it a wonderful place to call my home.”
- Narelle Groenhout
Hepburn House offers personalised care in a progressive, highly advanced and compassionate country setting – it's the next best thing to home. Hepburn House is at 1 Hepburn Road, Daylesford. Phone 5348 8100 or head to www.hepburnhouse.com.au/
Bronwyn
Dr Ashvin
Dr Loshna
Narelle and her mother Pam Wilson
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Daylesford Cinema rises from the ashes
A cinema is back on the cards for The Rex building in Daylesford - to be aptly named Phoenix@The Rex.
Daylesford Cinema Group president Jules McDonald said the group had lobbied the owners of The Rex, the Comelli and Bromley partnership, along with several commercial cinema operators including the Barton Brothers, Palace and Sun Theatres.
"Whilst these groups were open to the exploration, all parties decided that a commercial development would not be viable given the population of the area even including tourism figures in the mix.
"Negotiations commenced between the group and the owners of The Rex and an agreement was achieved within our budget and projections. The group will lease the upstairs area housing the cinema shell and the balcony area which will be used for ticketing and a café/bar.
"The owners will complete the building of the cinema shell previously built by the council, the balcony area and the toilets. The group will be responsible for fit-out including raked seating for approximately 70 patrons."
Ms McDonald said there were plans to promote the cinema to both local and tourist populations and cater to the diversity of cultures, ages, and interests of these groups.
"The community-run aspect of operations will provide great opportunity for volunteer activity which has been valued in the past for its contribution to relieving isolation and providing purpose and interest for many residents.
"The cinema will provide a variety of film genres as well as film festivals, musical events, stand-up comedy and small theatrical productions. It will liaise with programmers of our many festivals to ensure appropriate linkages and activities are included.
"We will promote our own film festivals showcasing for example, local film makers and creative young people. When not being used for entertainment purposes the space will be available for hire as a venue for presentations of various sorts."
But Ms McDonald said the $150,000 previously raised by the community together with the volunteer efforts had been lost through Hepburn Shire Council "mismanagement and decision making" and donations and in-kind support were vital.
"We have applied for a Victorian Tourism Infrastructure grant and will pursue other grants. However, we will need your support in cash, in kind and cinema membership and later, we will be calling for volunteers to help run the cinema. If you have skills of any kind that would help in completing the build, fit-out of the cinema, bar/café and ticketing area and/or the ongoing running of the cinema, please contact the Daylesford Cinema Group.
"There will soon be a Call to Action to kick start the Community Fundraising Campaign, so please consider digging deep to help ‘Phoenix@The Rex’ rise from the ashes and spread its wings over Daylesford."
History
The Daylesford Cinema was first housed in The Rex Arcade, a private shopping mall, but was left without a home after The Rex was bought by the council in 2016.
The council intended to use the venue, after much public consultation, as a community hub to include a new library, customer service centre, public toilets and staff accommodation.
That all fell through after a massive budget blow-out and planning débâcles, and the building was sold in 2022.
For some time after 2016, the cinema ran out of the community rooms at Victoria Park in Daylesford and in the Daylesford Town Hall, but neither offered a viable alternative.
Former cinema president Gina Lyons, pictured, told The Local in mid 2021 there had been so many twists and turns with The Rex project since it was bought by council in 2016.
“December/January was always a very busy time for us and we really hoped that we would be in the new cinema this Christmas (2020) so that we could offer the latest movies to our community and the visitors in town, as well as replenish our coffers, which have been seriously impacted over the last four years.
“How do we feel? Frustrated. Bitterly disappointed. Gobsmacked.”
The Rex was originally built as a theatre in the 1920s and has had many iterations including being a large budget variety shop.
Words: Donna Kelly | Images: Donna Kelly & Kyle Barnes
Frustrated committee members and volunteers had been hopeful they would be back in the building by the middle of 2021.
Something old, something new: the tale of a wedding dress
The story of a lavish 1880s wedding dress and its painstaking restoration is about to be shared as the historic Trewhella gown goes on display later this month at Daylesford & District Museum.
The 1885 wedding gown of Sarah Trewhella will go on display from Saturday, October 26.
And in the lead-up to its public exhibition, professional textile conservator, Hepburn’s Larry Edwards will be giving a guest talk on the specialised processes used to bring this salvaged item of social history 'back to life'.
Larry’s guest talk, at 11am on Thursday, October 24, will be open to the general public (following a similar booked-out presentation for D&DHS members).
The linen, cotton and silk tulle lace number was worn by Sarah Trewhella (nee Hosking) upon her marriage to Ben Trewhella on January 7, 1885 at her parents’ home at Simmons Reef, Blackwood.
For many decades after that special day it had languished in a box, its considerable beauty fading with each passing year.
But in recent times, assisted by some funding through the Rosalind Pyers Memorial conservation support fund, the museum has been able to draw on Larry’s expertise to bring the glorious garment back to be publicly admired afresh.
The museum’s Gary Lawrence says the treasured retro wedding dress will be on display through to the end of the year, while Larry’s talk promises to be a must for anyone interested in textile and fabric conservation, vintage fashions - or social history.
Above, from left, textile conservator Larry Edwards and museum curator Gary Lawrence with components of the historic 1885 Trewhella wedding gown which is about to go on display following the completion of its restoration
Inset: Ben and Sarah Trewhella: image courtesy of Blackwood Publishing Words & main image: Eve Lamb
Just briefly...
Free public transport for Seniors Card holders is on offer until October 13thanks to the Seniors Festival.
The free travel applies to all forms of public transport including trams, trains, buses and coach services in metro, regional and rural areas. Cardholders will need to carry their Seniors Card while travelling and touch on and off with their myki as usual – but myki cards won’t be charged. Link: seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/free-travel
The state government has developed a new cyber safety check tool as part of Cyber Security Awareness Month.
The cyber safety check asks users questions about their online behaviour and habits such as creating strong passwords and using multi-factor authentication. Once the user completes the check, they are given tailored advice on how to improve their cyber safety behaviour. Link: www.vic.gov.au/stay-safe-online.
Hepburn Shire Council is calling for nominations from across the community to acknowledge the people and groups working tirelessly to make Hepburn Shire a great place to live, work and play.
Nominations can be made for Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Event of the Year and Hepburn Together. The new Hepburn Together Award is designed to celebrate the contribution of groups to the shire. Nominations close on October 31.
Daylesford's Jubilee Lake is among more than 70 lakes across Victoria now restocked with rainbow trout ready for families to enjoy the great outdoors –thanks to a state government initiative.
In the Central Highlands there are now 300 trout in the Glenlyon Dam, 300 in Hanging Rock Lake at Woodend and 300 in Jubilee Lake at Daylesford Little Gallery in Trentham has raised a whopping $10,450 at its annual Winter Show fundraising exhibition which has been donated to this year's nominated recipient, the East Trentham Fellowship.
Founded by the late Mario Satori in 2003, The East Trentham Fellowship, as well as supporting local schools, CFA and sporting teams, quietly supports locals in the community in times of need. The East Trentham Fellowship would like to reach out to anyone in the community who may need their help or support in any way. Call 0447 659 964.
Hepburn Shire Council has pressed pause on the Glenlyon Recreation Reserve Pavilion construction project that addresses the location of the pavilion at the Reserve.
CEO Bradley Thomas said the first step in designing the renovation or replacement of the pavilion, pictured below, was to assess the suitability of the site in case of bushfire. “We have found that unfortunately, even if we heavily managed vegetation around the building, it would still not satisfy bushfire regulations. These regulations are even more stringent with a public building as it may be used as an informal public refuge during an emergency event.”
Show wins for Gloria
The first day of the 2024 Royal Melbourne Show was a great day for Oberon Suffolk Stud.
Owned by Bruce Rolfe (pictured) and Douglas Scott, Oberon Stud took away multiple awards for Oberon 3039 aka Gloria.
The young animal, who lives with her flock on Bruce and Doug's farm in Musk, won Supreme Champion Suffolk, Champion Suffolk Ewe, Interbreed Champion Ewe and Interbreed Champion Shortwool Ewe.
“Suffice to say we are ecstatic to have been awarded the Supreme Champion Suffolk award for one of our ewes,” says Bruce.
“It is a lot of work, particularly in the cold climate that we live in, to get sheep to this standard. But our efforts over the past years seem to be being recognised. Love, good pastures enriched with organic fertilisers and bio-dynamic preparations plus the time invested in improving our robust genetics has been well rewarded this year with success across the show seasons.”
Bruce and Doug have great affection and respect for their ewe and all their sheep and love how they respond to their constant work and attention.
The next steps will be to continue developing their award-winning genetics into the future. “We are currently considering where we go next for the sire to use with Gloria,” says Bruce. “He has to be special.”
Gloria first featured in the July 18 edition of The Local Words: Tony Sawrey | Image: Supplied
Pat Hockey
FOR HEPBURN SHIRE
Focusing on affordable and accessible services
Facilities and sports grounds well-maintained
A strong voice for farmers and families
A big supporter of seniors
Super preparedness for floods and fires
Bringing Council’s rising debt under control
Experienced in local tourism marketing (12yrs)
HOCKEY FOR HEPBURN
Re-elect Cr. Brian Hood
HEPBURN SHIRE COUNCIL ELECTION OCTOBER 2024
As your local independent councillor I will:
• Effectively represent all residents, especially those in our smaller towns.
• Be available to represent your interests as your local voice.
• Be honest, accountable and keep you, the ratepayer, informed.
As your councillor for the past 4 years I have supported and delivered a wide range of important local projects.
As Mayor for the past two years I have provided leadership, especially through difficult times.
4 HENDERSON, Don 6 CLARK, Tony 11 POROCHOWSKY, Christian
DRYLIE, Tim 9 SEDGMAN, Derek 8 PETTERSSON, Benny 1 HOOD, Brian 2 STONE, Cameron 12 HOCKEY, Pat 3 HEWITT, Lesley 5 CORNISH, Shirley 7 WINFIELD-GRAY, Bernie
My career experience in finance and strategic management enables me to address the significant challenges facing Council. We need trustworthy, intelligent, independent and reliable councillors who can grasp the challenges and make sensible decisions for the benefit of the whole Shire. If re-elected I will continue to listen, work hard and deliver for our community.
Brian
Hepburn Shire Council postal election
An election will be held for Hepburn Shire Council.
Check the mail for your ballot pack
Ballot packs containing voting material will be mailed to enrolled voters from Monday 7 October
This is a postal election only.
If you do not receive your ballot pack by Tuesday 15 October please visit vec.vic.gov.au to complete the online replacement form, or call 131 832 to arrange a replacement.
Candidates
Candidates who have nominated for election are listed in the ballot packs and at vec.vic.gov.au
A photo and candidate statement will also be included if provided by candidates. Responses to a candidate questionnaire, if provided, are available at vec.vic.gov.au
How to vote correctly
You must complete your ballot paper correctly for your vote to count. Put the number 1 in the box next to the candidate you want to see elected, then number all the other boxes in order of your choice. You must number every box and only use each number once.
How to return your ballot pack
Put your completed ballot paper in the ballot paper envelope, complete the declaration, then post it ASAP using the reply-paid envelope provided, or hand deliver it during election office hours to:
79A Raglan Street
Daylesford
Voting is compulsory
Voting is compulsory for all voters who were enrolled at 4 pm on Wednesday 7 August. This includes state-enrolled and council-enrolled voters.
If you don’t vote and don’t have a valid excuse, you may be fined.
Your completed ballot pack must be in the mail or hand delivered by 6 pm Friday 25 October.
State-enrolled voters can register for free VoterAlert SMS and email reminders at vec.vic.gov.au
Written & authorised by Brian Hood, Po Box 156 Trentham 3458
Walks of the Central Highlands with Eve Lamb
Macedon Ranges Walking Track: Sanatorium Lake to Camels Hump and Return, 9.5km
While researching possible walks in the Macedon Ranges, it’s the name that catches my eye; the Sanatorium Lake Walking Trail.
Sanatorium? More on that later.
It forms part of the Macedon Ranges Walking Track and at a very leisurely 2.6 km, joins nicely with a lengthier hike up to the Camel's Hump, the highest point in the Macedon Ranges, making a more respectable 9.5km return walk all up.
So lunch, Thermos, waterproof coats, camera and backpacks sorted we head off on an almost-sunny Sunday.
Travelling to the Macedon Regional Park via Woodend we start to gain elevation and encounter a phalanx of motorcyclists out to grind their pegs on the sharper Mount Macedon bends.
Turning left off the main road that continues through to leafy Macedon, we instead take the Lions Head Road and continue on past Days Picnic Ground, navigating gravel and a serious pothole or two to arrive finally at the Sanatorium Lake car park.
Nearby a group of folk are on bent knees, all turned to Mecca, for afternoon prayer.
But for us, first up is the lake. From the car park it’s a quick little saunter to the tiny lake’s edge, beside which towering exotic conifers are impressive while the native forest too presses in around the water’s edge.
Signage provides a potted history of this little artificial water body in the bush. The lake was built around 1899 to supply water to a turberculosis sanatorium that was located several kilometres to the south.
Perhaps it’s the predominance of shade and shadow, or perhaps some lingering ghosts of history, but I find this little aquatic feature just a tad eerie, pretty rippling forest reflections notwithstanding.
We complete a lap of the little lake and then follow the Sanatoriun EcoTourism Trail, part of the Macedon Ranges Walking Track, on to the Days Picnic Ground that we drove past on the way here.
“Keep an eye out for horses… and stags,” advises my sturdy walking accomplice, Paddy H.
“What?”
“We’re on a shared horse path on this section, and ‘stags’ is a name given to the big old dead trees that have become hollowed. Invaluable for wildlife, micro bats and the like,” my walking companion informs.
Turns out his assertion is spot on, confirmed by information signage a bit further along the trail.
We soon part ways with the horsey section and arrive at the Days Picnic Ground for our packed lunch and coffee with free entertainment courtesy of a large Aussie-Indian group locked in fierce cricketing combat.
Fortified, we again shoulder our packs and pick up the signposted MRWT just beyond the picnic ground’s composting loo block.
From here the trail quickly leaves the picnicking day trippers behind and wends through bushland including some imposing stags.
Carefully, we cross the main road that leads to Macedon, and we continue on the other side following the trail. From here the forest increasingly comes into its own.
Splendid tall eucalypts tower while on our left glimpses of ancient rock formations impart a sense of drama in keeping with the fact that the Camel's Hump is actually the weathered remains of a mamelon - a mass of sticky lava that oozed from the earth’s crust about six million years ago.
The walk now becomes a gradual gaining of elevation and by the time we emerge from the tall forest at the Camel's Hump car park my walking companion and I have both worked up a respectable sweat.
From the carpark we tackle the last 1km push up to the summit. Short but sharp. The Camel's Hump is 1011 metres above sea level and we’re rewarded with sweeping views across the northern plains.
We count our lucky stars that the rain which has vaguely threatened all afternoon has receded to be replaced by cool sunlight that now adds dazzle to the far-flung vista stretching before us.
But the wind is bloody cold and boisterous and we can only stay here so long to pay our due respects.
Just before hypothermia sets in we head on back down and retrace our steps all the way back to the start point at the Sanatorium Lake carpark to find the previously prayful have departed, and ours is the only vehicle that remains, aside from a lone motorcycle.
“What stays with you the most about this walk?” I quiz my co-walker as we drive on to Macedon, reflecting on our expedition.
“The tall forest. The poignance of the sanatorium and the suffering of the people who had TB. And the resonance of past Melbourne glories when this area was a summer retreat for the wealthy, when the beach wasn’t so hallowed,” he muses thoughtfully.
And I have to agree. I also think this walk provides just the right degree of exertion and variety for a decent day hike. A gnarly little slice of elevation without leaving you too smashed to enjoy a trip to the Macedon Hotel for afters.
Top dogs headed to the Old Sniff Classic
Top sheepdogs and their trainers are headed to Dean this Sunday, October 13, for the eleventh running of the Old Sniff Classic Sheepdog Trials.
Among them, veteran sheepdog trainer Jim Dodge and his dog, Connor’s Cash, will be back to defend Cash’s title after the four-year-old border collie took out the open competition last year.
The duo from Snake Valley will be the ones to beat and the competition is likely to be intense with Jim also competing with Viewfield Sam, a three-year-old border collie that he bred as well as trained.
Jim has never missed an Old Sniff Sheepdog Trial in all the years it’s been running. He and his wife Kerry love to get along to the annual Dean Recreation Reserve fixture that raises money for local causes.
“Brian and the committee do a really good job,” says Jim, referring to the president of the Dean Recreation Reserve Committee, Brian Maher.
“We won the Old Sniff Classic open with Cash last year and Sam finished fourth.”
Jim and Kerry are well known on the sheep dog trial circuit and have recently been made life members of the Victorian Working Sheepdog Association.
The accolade recognises their major contributions with Kerry providing untold hours behind the scenes toward the smooth running of events and admin, and Jim breeding and training champion working sheepdogs for the last five decades.
Jim and his dogs have won at state supreme championship level and notched up an impressive number of Australian and Commonwealth championship level wins, while Jim’s knowledge has also seen him judge Australian Supreme Sheepdog Trials as well.
“We’ll be trying anyway,” he says ahead of this Sunday’s competition.
Kerry says that over the many years they’ve been attending sheepdog trials, she’s noticed some interesting changes take place.
“It’s very much changed over the years. It used to be just farmers competing but now you get city folk who will train a dog to compete as well,” she says.
“There’s always a good crowd (at the Old Sniff Classic). We get a lot of people come along and they’ll just sit there for hours and watch it.”
Busy preparing for this Sunday’s running, Brian Maher is particularly hoping the sun smiles down on the Old Sniff after foul weather cancelled the committee’s other main fundraiser for the year, the Dean Kite Festival which was meant to have happened last month.
Brian says this Sunday’s trials will see about 40 well-trained and work-honed dogs competing, offering spectators a pretty pleasant way to spend the day.
“The stars of the show manoeuvre three sheep around a course on the command of their handlers, while being judged on time and ability,” he says.
“National, state and local champions are among the field and spectators can chat to the handlers and learn the finer points of the sport.”
Food sales, raffles and a vintage machinery display are part of it as well with entry to the grounds by gold coin donation.
Words & Images: Eve Lamb
Above, veteran sheepdog trainer Jim Dodge with Viewfield Sam (golden border collie) and Connor’s Cash (black and white border collie)
Djaara business win
Djaara is the Victorian winner of the Telstra Best of Business Awards in the Indigenous Excellence category and will go on to represent Victoria on a national stage.
The recognition comes as Djaara, the Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation, turns 20.
Reflecting on the achievements of the past two decades, Dja Dja Wurrung Group CEO Rodney Carter pointed to the enormous growth since the corporation began in 2004 with two staff and 75 members.
“We are now one of Central Victoria’s large and growing employers, with around 200 staff and more than 550 members. As the representative body for Dja Dja Wurrung People – the traditional owners of Central Victoria – Djaara’s focus is on the health and wellbeing of Dja Dja Wurrung people, country and culture.
“We aim for Dja Dja Wurrung people to be empowered with an established place in society and able to manage our own affairs from a strong and diverse economic base.
“The Corporation’s commitment to good governance, solid business practices and future planning has enabled it to sustain rapid growth. We have been able to diversify, to take a holistic approach towards self-determination.
“This has included establishing three enterprises: Djandak, a natural resource management and design business; Dumawul, a creative arts and cultural tourism social enterprise; and Djakitj, a bush foods venture.
“We are shifting the dial – not only for Dja Dja Wurrung people, but also for other traditional owners across Victoria and Australia. As well, we are creating a range of benefits for the wider community in Central Victoria – through economic stimulus, sharing our culture, and improvements to the natural and built environment.”
In 2013, the corporation became the only Victorian Registered Aboriginal Party to enter into a Recognition and Settlement Agreement with the State of Victoria.
The RSA recognises Djaara as the traditional owners of Dja Dja Wurrung Country in Central Victoria, and lays out Djaara’s rights, including rights to actively manage country.
Malamiya Mang Festival
Dja Dja Wurrung art, music, fashion design and culture will be on show in Bendigo over the Melbourne Cup long weekend, as Dja Dja Wurrung enterprise Dumawul hosts the Malamiya Mang Arts Festival.
Dumawul Creative Arts producer Maurial Spearim said Malamiya Mang, now in its second year, blended contemporary art and culture with traditional practice.
“Malamiya Mang is about then and now,” Ms Spearim said. “The festival draws on the continuing connection between Dja Dja Wurrung people and country from the past to the here and now. In Dja Dja Wurrung language, ‘malamiya’ means ‘long ago before this time’ and ‘mang’ means ‘now’.”
The three-day festival will launch with an exhibition of Dja Dja Wurrung art inspired by the revival of traditional burning practice, Djandak Wi (Country fire in Dja Dja Wurrung language). Works by more than 12 artists include paintings, weavings and more.
The exhibition, at the Dumawul Hub in Bendigo’s Hargreaves Mall, opens at 6pm on Thursday, October 31. The exhibition will also open on Tuesdays and Wednesdays until November 27, 1pm – 4pm.
A pop-up shop at the hub will open alongside the exhibition on Saturday. It’s an opportunity to explore and purchase a beautiful selection of art, jewellery, health products, fashion and more – all created by talented Dja Dja Wurrung artists. Children’s activities, including weaving workshops, will also be available from 11am to 1pm.
The pop-up shop and exhibition will be open on Saturday and during the Moonlight Market in the Mall.
Dumawul’s first fashion runway show, Marana Muyupilang (which means made by hand in Dja Dja Wurrung language) follows the exhibition opening in the hub on Thursday.
Celebrating the ‘now’ theme, the Our Country, Our People concert at the Capital Theatre on Friday, November 1 includes headline acts DRMNGNOW and Yambra along with guest artists. It follows an official opening ceremony from 6pm with performers from the Dja Dja Wurrung dance group.
Link: www.dumawul.com.au/malamiya-mang/
Council news
Council
POSITIVE AGEING EXPO
Thursday, 10 October 2024
10am to 3pm
RACV Goldfields, Creswick
Are you 55+? Come along and make new friends and network with other community members, community groups and service providers. Council’s Positive Ageing Expo is a free event, with catering. It will be unique, informative and fun! There are guest speakers, stalls and public announcements.
More information and book your place at www.hepburn.vic.gov.au/events
SENIORS FESTIVAL
Victoria’s largest seniors’ festival is returning from 1–31 October 2024, with lots of opportunities for older Victorians to take part in free and low-cost entertainment and events in our Shire.
• 15 October - Friendship and Fun at the Men’s Shed – Men’s only session
• 16 October - Friendship and Fun at the Men’s Shed - Women’s only session
• 23 October - Movement and Fun – Central Highlands Rural Health
• 24 October - Healthy Eating, Healthy Conversations
More information and book your place at www.hepburn.vic.gov.au/events
EMERGENCY EXPO
Saturday, 19 October 2024
10am to 2pm
Victoria Park, 3021 Ballan Road, Daylesford
Meet our first responders and learn how to prepare your properties, families and animals for emergency events including fire, flood and storms.
WIN a lucky door prize worth more than $200. There will be live rescue demonstrations, food and drinks available, free sausage sizzle and free family fun.
Our event partners are Victoria State Emergency Service, Country Fire Authority, Victoria Police, Ambulance Victoria, Australian Red Cross and Rapid Relief Team.
RATES INSTALMENT REMINDER
Just a reminder that the 1st Instalment of your 2024/25 rates was due on Monday 30 September 2024. For different payment options and payment plans/assistance visit - www.hepburn.vic.gov.au/rates. We encourage you to pay online. If you are having difficulties meeting your rates payment, please contact our Rates team to discuss on email shire@hepburn.vic.gov. au or 5348 2306. We are here to assist you.
Not long until Free Green Waste November at our transfer stations –Daylesford, Creswick and Trentham. It’s a great time to clean up your properties in preparation for the upcoming fire season.
EAT | DRINK | ENJOY
Out & About in the Central Highlands
Hi Glen
My daff bulbs have been in the ground around 10 years. The garden faces east and they are protected from westerly sun and wind. I don’t dig them up, rather twist the leaves into a knot until they rot so that there is room for phlox, lavender shower, etc, but should I dig and divide them as there have been few flowers this year despite producing healthy leaves? Your advice would be appreciated, please.
PS. A gardening friend was telling me how she has great success with her bulbs by starting them in a sheltered place and once the plants begin to produce their flower buds, move them out and plant them, baskets and all. Do you think I should try this?
Wendy, Trentham.
Hi Wendy
Your request is more than timely. I’ve been thinking of that as yet another angle to talk about for the end-of season treatment of spring-flowering bulbs. I must say though the very image of you twisting and twining the poor things and leaving them to rot put my teeth on edge!
Spring-flowering bulbs such as narcissi and daffodils need to retain their leaves as long as possible to build up strong bulbs for next year and give any young bulblets a chance of developing a root system capable of supporting the new plant should you decide to separate and replant them in another bed.
This may mean your bed could be littered with untidy-looking brown clumps, but resist temptation to cut them back. If the leaves are interfering with other subjects in the border they may be tied up in bundles and still perform their function.
You could, of course, use them to fill any gaps in the existing beds, pot them up as reserves, or better still, use them for bartering with friends to expand your range of colours etc.
Your bulbs, especially the replanted ones, should not be allowed to dry out prematurely. When the dry weather begins, give them at least one good watering, in which you could include a weak dose of organic liquid food, before allowing them to become dormant.
Whilst you are in the midst of all this replanting, you should deal with any of the bulblets clinging to the roots of the plants that you judge to be advanced enough to be released to fend for themselves, and can be potted up either singly in small pots, or planted out in the bed with the others to fill up any vacant spaces in the bed.
When you mention in your letter 'plant them baskets and all' I assume that these ‘baskets’ are fabricated, water-proof or indeed suitable mesh-sided trough-like containers, that provide drainage and will sustain the conditions for at least a couple of seasons. Especially if these are going to be spending the whole season underground in rather tough conditions.
There must be loads of old wicker baskets, mesh-bottomed plastic sieves etc. going to waste in local op shops, just dying to be recycled. The whole concept is that the spaces in the garden beds can filled with 'other season' plantings so that your beds are full of colour almost year round. At the same time, this gives your precious plants a better start in life.
Cheers, Glen
Inset: When moved here from the Coach House 16 years ago, we unknowingly ferried several stowaways with us in the form of seeds. Over the years we’ve been blessed by a sudden appearance of yet another of our “lost” favourites - the latest being this batch of purple, bronze leafed violets, that must have hitched a ride hitched and laid low all this time!
Swagload of success: artshow benefits homeless
A huge success is how artists have summed up last month’s From Behind Closed Doors fundraising art exhibition.
Staged by Daylesford Regional Arts Co-operative in the town’s renovated Stanbridge Hall, the event has raised $2200 for Backpack Bed for Homeless Australia.
“That’s 15 backpack beds and sleeping bags for the homeless of Hepburn Shire,” says Pam Gleeson, a Glenlyon artist who is also treasurer with the co-operative.
“Our target was $1000 so yes, we smashed it. We had over $10,000 of art sales. Not bad for a very small group of 12 artists.
“Stanbridge Hall proved to be the perfect space to hold an exhibition. We had over 180 people at our Gala Opening Night and close to a further 300 people visited the exhibition.
“We’ll definitely have a major exhibition every year.”
Pam had suggested that funds raised from the debut event go toward assisting people contending with homelessness, after becoming aware of the extent of the problem.
“I think a lot of people may not even realise that homelessness is an issue even here in the Hepburn Shire where it’s a problem that is not openly on display,” she says. “Many of the homeless find shelter in hidden corners of the towns and villages or live in the Wombat State Forest.
“Homelessness can affect anyone at any time. People suffer illnesses, loss of employment, marital breakups or the need to escape domestic violence. All these factors can mean loss of home and employment.
“Backpack Bed for Homeless can’t keep pace with the demand. They supply a backpack bed every two hours, but, in fact, need to supply one every 11 minutes.
“Child & Family Services office in Daylesford is the access point or first point of contact for people at risk of or suffering homelessness. In the past 12 months Cafs has provided assistance to 111 individuals, families or couples in the Hepburn Shire, providing tents, swags and backpack beds.”
Right, auctioneer Mick Winter in action during the fundraising auction Words: Eve Lamb | Image: Supplied
LOCAL ENERGY EXPERTS
Family pilgrimage
In every community around the country there are a multitude of stories to be told. So many of those tales are ones of diaspora, of individuals and families from all backgrounds fleeing poverty, war and social upheaval and creating a new life.
Hepburn's Morgan Williams, of Radius Gallery, is currently writing a book about his own mother Stephany’s long journey from war-ravaged Holland to Australia.
“I started writing a novel based on the experiences of my family,” says Morgan, “vignettes of the times and Mum's life. The book has always been on my mind and I’m halfway through doing it.”
The tale is taken up in a small town called Borne close to the border of Germany and one Dr Rudolf Panhuysen. Born in 1897 he was a general practitioner and was known as a skilled, knowledgeable and well-respected physician.
As a health officer, he was mobilised in 1939 attending to battlefield casualties before resuming his practice at 1 Korte Wensinkweg. The three-storey house held his surgery on the ground floor and his family home upstairs. Unbeknownst to authorities it also became a stopover on an extensive underground resistance network against the occupying Nazis.
At great risk to himself and his family, the house became a refuge for resistance fighters, fugitive Jews, British and American airmen and other people in hiding. The examination table in his consulting room sat on a carpet that, when needed, could be moved aside to reveal a trap door and stairs to a hidden room below.
“It was really full on when I first went to the house in the 1990s with mum,” says Morgan. “The person who lived there recognised her from 30 years previously and invited us in. While the place has now been renovated, at that time little had changed, there were even still kids' toys and names engraved on the walls in the attic.
“Mum was amazed and got very nostalgic seeing the house as it pretty much was when they left. While we didn’t open it, the trap door was still there along with bullet holes from when the Nazis raided the place.”
That event took place in February 1945. Betrayal led a squad of Landwachters to surround and storm the house. The Landwacht were the feared and hated internal paramilitary organisation that did the occupiers' dirty work and they arrested a total of 13 people that day.
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Amazingly, all those arrested, including Dr Panhuysen and his wife Helena (who was also part of an espionage ring), did eventually survive the war. A miracle considering the ruthless methods of the Nazis and the common fate of so many members of resistance groups all over occupied Europe.
In 1954 the Panhuysen family including Stephany, who was just eight years old, left Holland to resettle in Perth, Western Australia. Perth was and remains one of the most remote capital cities in the world and light years away from the wreckage of post- war Holland. It was the ideal place to start life over.
“After going through two major European wars within 30 years, they saw no reason why it could not happen all over again,” says Morgan. “Perth was isolated and that's exactly where they wanted to be.”
After migrating to Australia Dr Panhuysen continued practising medicine as a ship doctor on Dutch ships before retiring. He died in August 1976.
Back in Holland, the country would slowly rebuild and along the way become one of Europe's success stories, a prosperous and progressive country that went to great lengths to recognise those mostly anonymous heroes who maintained resistance against incredible odds in the darkest days of World War II.
In the mid 80s as gratitude for his wartime efforts, the city of Borne named a street after Dr Rudolf Panhuysen. And the house at 1 Korte Wensinkweg, that held his old surgery, remains standing to this day.
Meanwhile Stephany would grow up in Western Australia before moving over to the east coast and raising a family. Today she lives with Morgan and his partner Kim in Hepburn, generations and half a world away from the trials, deprivations and memories of another time and place.
“All of my cousins and family have gone over there to see the house, see the street and take a photo, just like me and mum did. The latest visitor in early September was our son Josh. It is kind of a family pilgrimage in a way.”
Left, Morgan Williams and his mother Stephany at the street named after Dr Panhuysen in Borne Netherlands 1990s, right, Josh at the former surgery/safe house owned by the Panhuysen family in September this year
Words: Tony Sawrey | Images: Supplied
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Region’s canola growers hoping for rain
Just the right amount of rainfall is the vital ingredient for which the region’s canola growers are hoping.
Farmers Jodie and Tim Barry of Ullina said rain would make all the difference between prices for the eye-catching crop which has transformed a notable slice of the region’s landscape with bright swathes of gold.
The farmers are among an increasing number of producers who have been turning to the crop in recent times.
They currently have 260 acres planted out to canola and their crop was in the process of podding up when they talked to The Local last week.
“We are in desperate need of rain and if we could manage an inch it would be good. The critical time is now,” Tim said. “Without it a lot of crops could end up not finishing and might even have to be cut for hay.
“We’d expect 3.2 tonnes to the hectare but without rain we might be looking at two tonnes to the hectare, and at $700 a tonne it’s a big difference.”
Jodie and Tim are among growers who are feeling for the plight of those located further to the west and north where farmers have been contending with alarmingly dry conditions and also highly destructive frosts.
“We’re in a really good spot here and I feel sorry for the people up north,” Jodie said. “The (seed) pods are already forming now and we’ll be looking at harvesting in November or December. Depending on the quality it will end up either for human consumption, being used for things like cooking oils, or for animal feed.”
The Barrys have been growing canola for the past four years and so far have done well enough to keep investing in it. “There definitely does seem to be a lot more farmers around here getting into it. But with canola it’s hit and miss,” Jodie says.
“I do love the colour, how beautiful it is and how it changes the landscape.”
Tim and Jodie’s neighbour, Jock Leishman, has 400 acres planted out to canola and agrees that timely rain now will make all the difference.
“We potentially have the best canola crop in now that we’ve had for 10 years,” Jock said. “But we need to keep getting some reasonable rain and given that we now don’t have much sub-soil moisture we ideally need to be getting about 20 mm every fortnight for the next month.” Words & Image: Eve Lamb
Farmer Jodie Barry wants rain for her canola crop
ALL THINGS RUMP!
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GREENHILLS NATURAL BEEF RUMP
Picanha and Chimichurri
Two sisters, an artist and a poet...
Mother Mother, a new exhibition exploring the sometimes vexed relationships of mothers and daughters through images and words, has opened at Newstead's Railway Arts Hub and runs through to October 27.
In this evocative and moving exhibition visual artist Pam French and poet Leni Shilton, explore the cycle of life-long female relationships and links between generations long passed.
Now living in Newstead, Leni is a poet, nurse, educator and researcher who worked in Aboriginal adult education in the Northern Territory for many years.
She has twice won the Northern Territory Literary Poetry and Essay awards, and in 2015 was shortlisted for the University of Canberra Poetry Prize.
Pam lives south of Sydney and works as a multidisciplinary artist. Her studio is situated in remnant Cumberland Plain Woodland alongside a dry swamp. Her ongoing fascination with the wonderful diversity of people, places and nature is the source of inspiration in her work.
Leni and Pam are sisters and artists working in collaboration for Mother Mother. They have worked together over many years and have collaborated in two previous exhibitions.
Their work explores the experiences of life and the creative threads between their work. Despite the work being created in isolation from each other, the visual images and poetry sit alongside each other with an ease and familiarity that comes from their family threads and shared values.
Viewers will be able to explore the work through a multimedia experience –artwork, projected images, audio, written and spoken word.
This exhibition is highly accessible and interactive with the Newstead Railway Art Hub gallery open Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 4pm.
Noni in conversation
Australian acting legend Noni Hazlehurst is heading to Daylesford and Castlemaine.
From Play School to gritty dramas and amazing live theatre, Noni is recognised, respected and much loved across the nation.
Her story is full, rich, lively, opinionated - and a testament to her grit, willpower and talent.
She has always been committed to telling Australian stories - and this memoir is an impressive addition to her remarkable opus.
Some of her earlier work included guest lead roles in television serials produced by Crawford Productions.
She played the regular role of Sharon Lewis in The Box in 1975 before joining the original cast of The Sullivans as Lil Duggan in late 1976. She was a Play School presenter from 1978 to 2001, and has been a national ambassador or patron for many children's events and charities, including Children's Week (1991-2007) and Barnardos.
She has worked extensively for children and recorded several music and spoken word albums, including the children's music album Shout and Whisper (1988).
Noni Hazlehurst will be guest at an In Conversation event with Castlemaine Theatre Company’s Bridget Haylock at the Phee Broadway Theatre, Castlemaine on October 11 from 7.30pm
A high tea with Noni at The Convent in Daylesford has already sold out.
Former Glenlyon Primary School.
- Approx. 4857m2 of land the pretty hamlet of Glenlyon
- Open plan kitchen, dining and living space
- The beautifully renovated school has five-metre-high ceilings
- All three buildings have operated as successful B'n'B rental properties
- Butler's pantry with endless storage possibilities
- Two separate garden studios, both with verandahs, bathrooms and kitchenettes
- Generous covered deck facing north perfect for entertaining - Frontage onto the beautiful, alternating oak and elm Avenue of Federation
- A short stroll to the Glenlyon General Store, the Glenlyon Dam and the Glenlyon Reserve
Festival of Gardens
Explore stunning private gardens during the Castlemaine and District Festival of Gardens this November. A curated selection of 23 gardens will open during Melbourne Cup week, from Saturday, November 2 to Sunday, November 10.
A number of properties are located in Castlemaine itself, while others can be found a short drive away, in outer areas of Mount Alexander Shire.
The theme of the festival, The Art of Gardening, celebrates the creativity of gardeners who have turned their patches of soil into environmental masterpieces.
Like artists, gardeners employ all the essential elements of art in their creations: colour, line, shape, form, tone and texture while adding in a good number of the principles as well: contrast, balance, emphasis, proportion, repetition and pattern.
Visitors will be inspired as they meander around a diverse selection of gardens, with their creators on hand to share their knowledge. Several properties offer plants and handcrafted items for sale, providing an opportunity to take home a memento.
The festival showcases grand country gardens, historic gardens, verge gardens, sculpture gardens, town gardens of many varieties and a purpose-built accessible garden. Regular visitors will be delighted to see a number of gardens which have been part of the festival for many years, together with 13 new gardens to discover.
A souvenir festival program is available at www.festivalofgardens.org, as well as from retail outlets around the Mount Alexander Shire and Bendigo. Follow the festival on Facebook @CastlemaineDistrictFestivalOfGardens and Instagram @ festivalofgardens or by signing up for the occasional e-newsletter from the website.
Entry to each garden is $5 per adult, children free. Payment is by cash, direct to the gardener at the gate.
Lyonville Bake Off
Get ready to indulge your senses and support a great cause at the 2024 Lyonville Bake Off.
The annual event returns on Sunday, October 27, from 10.30am to 3.30pm at the Lyonville Hall on Bremner Avenue, promising a day full of delicious fun and friendly competition.
This year, there are six competition categories to showcase baking prowess: Kids (12 and under), Decorated Cakes, General Cakes, Cupcakes and Slices, Tarts and Pies, and Special Dietary.
Whether a seasoned baker or just starting out, there’s a category for everyone to shine. The winner of each category will receive a ribbon and a prize valued at $50 or more.
For those entering, bring your baked masterpiece to the Lyonville Hall between 9am and 10am for registration.
And the Bake Off is more than just a competition. Throughout the day, there will be a variety of refreshments, including Devonshire teas, light lunches and barista coffee. After the winners are announced, the competition cakes will be available for purchase, so everyone can take a piece of the day’s deliciousness home.
Entry to the event is by gold coin donation with all proceeds going to the maintenance and development of the Lyonville Hall, a beloved community space.
Details: Vicki Jackson at vickicj102@gmail.com or Dorothy Fuller at dottifuller@gmail.com
Additional volunteers to help out on the day are always welcome - just reach out to Vicki or Dot.
Romantic Martha at Creswick Town Hall
Lyster Opera, Victoria’s travelling opera company, is delighted to announce a revival of its acclaimed production of von Flotow’s great romantic opera, Martha. And this has very special meaning for the company and the Daylesford area.
Director Jamie Moffat explains: “In February of this year, we were scheduled to perform Martha at the Daylesford Town Hall, as part of our regional tour. We always love performing here, as we have such enthusiastic audiences. However, in a cruel blow, we were obliged to cancel the performance at short notice, due to circumstances completely beyond our control. It was devastating.”
When the company was approached to revive the opera for German Week in Melbourne, they seized upon the chance to keep faith with the audience and to bring the opera back to the region for a special oneoff performance.
“As the Daylesford Town Hall is under renovation, we are lucky to have secured nearby Creswick Town Hall for this event,” Jamie says.
Martha is a romantic comedy by German composer Friedrich von Flotow. In the nineteenth century, it was amongst the most performed pieces in the world, before being eclipsed by newer works, but is now re-establishing itself in the repertoire.
The opera tells the story of Lady Harriet, who is bored with life in court, and disguises herself as a servant named Martha to enjoy life as a commoner at Richmond Fair. She gets more than she bargained for when she finds herself engaged as a housemaid – resulting in laughter, tears and romance.
Von Flotow’s score contains many instantly recognisable arias, including the immortal The Last Rose of Summer
up
Martha or The Fair at Richmond will be held at the Creswick Town
on November 2 at 2pm. Tickets are $40, $35 (concession) and $30 for children. Head to www.lysteropera.com.au or call 0410 890 388.
The cast is made
of some of Victoria’s finest professional singers, including Katy Turbitt as Lady Harriet, Paul Biencourt as Lyonel, Maria Woolford as Nancy, Michael Lampard as Plunkett and Troy Castle as Sir Tristan Mickelford. Musical direction is by audience favourite Pamela Christie.
Hall
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.
Kyle’s Rant
Hepburn Shire Council will have to pull its finger out if it wants to keep visitors to the area.
By the end of next year there will be 40 brands of electric vehicles sold in Australia and when they come to our little spot of paradise the EVs will all be vying for the total of six charge ports we have across our shire.
The benefits of an electric vehicle (EV) with all the whizzbangery such as the cyborg (Tesla) that calls TL HQ home are overwhelming. But the pecadilloes that the car features are hilarious and sometimes dangerous such as the “phantom braking”.
Lately the Telsa has been a bit on the nose due to that idiot Musk aligning himself with that equally idiotic buffoon with a guinea pig for a headpiece, Trump. And it’s all because these big boys like to throw their toys out of the cot when they get pissed off.
Musk used to vote exclusively for the Democrats until the Biden administration gave him the cold shoulder out of fear of angering the United Auto Workers union and Tesla is the only non-union automaker in the US.
So, Musk ran off to the Trump camp with his bounty of Teslas, Starlinks, SpaceX rockets and a thousand other bright ideas. I personally would have kept him in the Democratic camp, but that’s just me.
But back to my Tesla. I have given it the benefit of the doubt when it comes to parking because at the dealership you are told that it needs to “learn”. Well, the lesson is over mate, after six months jerking around in and out of parking spaces using the old 15-point parking method it is time for you to shine.
For God’s sake, it’s not as if you need to drive, you are supposed to be in control of your own wheels and steering system. I point you in the right direction, a nice clear arc into the parking bay and press the park button.
But no, you have to adjust the wheel and make me look like an idiot as you creep this way and that and finally arrive crooked and discombobulated into my park after two minutes and a dozen or so fast and violent adjustments between forward and reverse.
Mr Musk must have had one of his bright ideas when he invented the fart button, yes that’s right. We get around in a vehicle that suffers from phantom braking and can’t park to save its life, but if you want to generate a juicy fart noise you only have to push the button.
And what is this “phantom breaking” I hear you say, this happens when you are in full auto drive mode cruising along on a freeway at 110kph when there is a car behind you at what is considered a safe distance, and your Tesla sees a 60kph exit sign, gets confused and bangs on the anchors.
This quickly closes the distance between you and the car behind, because the two things Teslas are great at is acceleration and braking.
Don’t get me wrong, the car is fun to drive, it is nothing short of fast and nippy and a handful to keep under the speed limit, and admittedly my issues are first world.
But if the ground invasion of AI is led by the Tesla, here’s a quick hint. Corner yourself in a parking bay and you’ll have a lot of time to gather your thoughts and conjure up a counterattack.
ICE ICE baby rant over…(for those in the know…)
Local Lines
The white road
On the white road to the future it has snowed but there is no snow.
Sun glistens on the white road. Dark green deepens on either side.
The white road turns, straightens, admits long tree shadows, peels onwards.
- Bill Wootton
Bill has been on the road a bit lately. Trips begin and end in Hepburn Springs mostly.
Local Lines features poetry by locals about local and any other matters. Please submit poems to Bill Wootton at cottlesbreedge@gmail.com
Want to contribute to quality journalism or more cute dogs? Just scan the QR code here.
Pick me, pick me!
G’day! We’re Kevin and Chibby.
We’re bonded bros and a couple of classy cats. We’re almost four-years-old. Kevin, left, is the lap cat who wants all the love you can give. Chibby, right, is a little more outgoing and independent but still loves a smooch. We can both be shy at first and may hide, but once trust is gained we are super loving and affectionate. Come and meet us at the Mount Alexander Animal Welfare Shelter in Castlemaine. Phone: 5472 5277. Microchip nos: 956000017537929 & 956000017536007.
(Pick me, pick me is run in memory of Rosie & Curly - we picked them. And proudly supported by Daylesford's petstock - where pets are family.)
Just sayin’...
By Donna Kelly
Let the games begin.
So, 12 candidates are vying for seven spots for the new Hepburn Shire Council. The wards have been done away with and really, it seems a bit of a no-brainer as to who will get in.
I won't say that here but I will put the names I believe will get up in an envelope, seal it and then open it after the votes have been counted. I reckon I will be pretty spot on. I'll let you know.
The candidates include four former councillors for the shire, one former councillor for another shire, two business owners, a couple in the ALP and a couple who didn't worry about filling in a candidate form for the Victorian Electoral Commission - which I do find a bit strange but each to their own.
And the keyboard warriors are already busy at work with all sorts of rumours doing the rounds. Or maybe not rumours. There are some interesting Google searches to be had if you have nothing else happening.
It comes on top of the collapse of the final Hepburn Shire Council meeting for the year - with three councillors walking out on a confidential planning mattermeaning there was no quorum and the final agenda item for the meeting ended with no vote.
Strange way to end the year. I have spoken to a few people and had some of the oddest conversations all about transparency and yet not actually being able to talk about what happened.
It is probably just as well it happened at the final meeting; some of the councillors are not very happy with each other. Although I hear that might have been a bit of a trend for 2024. Those who stayed said they were doing their job while some of those who left said they were doing their best by walking away.
Kind of reminds me of the Local Government Inspectorate report into the council and The Rex. Like how the Inspectorate says it is "an independent agency responsible for making sure Victorian councils follow the Local Government Act" and then says, after a five-year investigation, there is nothing to see here. WTAF! Blind Freddie can see there is plenty to see. Well, maybe quite a few million dollars not to be seen, but then there are the Bleakley Street apartments which are looking very bleak indeed. I wonder if the council will lose yet more money there, say if someone decides they were led astray with their building permit on a pretty dodgy piece of land.
Anyway, the games continue. Hepburn Shire Council has always been interesting. I have covered the council for 11 years with The Local and another year or so with the former Fairfax news company.
I remember the Ned Kelly incident - nicely handled by Heather Mutimer - and the coffin. Ahh, the fun we had. Further back in my life I covered the Frankston City Council and that was also fun. Councillors calling other councillors fat, the moccasin jokes, a former CEO who said he was going to "get that bitch" - me. Good times. And then I also worked at Kingston City Council. Not so much fun being on the inside. We used to have weekly meetings with journos and the mayor, and offer free cake and coffee. The journos loved that and forgot to ask the right questions. Did you know Kingston had the last shit cart dunny? No, because no-one ever asked. What a great story that could have been.
I guess the only thing all councils have in common is that now and again shit happens. Just sayin'...
Ageing DisGracefully members, including Max Primmer, get together at the Daylesford Mill Markets cafe on Thursdays at 11am. All welcome. For information email ageingdis3461@gmail. com, call 0427 131 249 or head to the Ageing DisGracefully Facebook page.
Ageing DisGracefully is an initiative of Hepburn House.
W RD CROSS
Here is the crossword solution for Edition 315. How did you go?
All words in the crossword appear somewhere in the same edition of The Local.
Markets...
Every Sunday - Daylesford Sunday Market
First Saturday - Daylesford Farmers Market, Trentham Neighbourhood Centre Makers Market, Woodend Farmers Market, Woodend Lions Market
First Sunday - Castlemaine Artists’ Market
Second Saturday - Trentham Community Group Market, Kyneton Farmers Market, Ballan Farmers Market, Kyneton Rotary Community Market
Second Sunday - Maldon Market, Clunes Farmers & Makers Market
Third Saturday - Trentham Farmers and Makers Market, Glenlyon Farmers Market, Leonards Hill Market, Creswick Market
Third Sunday - Talbot Farmers Market, Malmsbury Farmers Market
Fourth Sunday - Trentham Station Sunday Market, Buninyong Village Market
