Equestrian facilities could be relocated from Woodend Racecourse Reserve in Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s future planning for the site
An ‘issues and opportunities paper’ includes two potential concepts that either keep limited equestrian facilities on the site, or relocate them elsewhere
While no potential relocation site has been clearly identified, the council is now seeking feedback on the paper, alongside its Draft Macedon Ranges Community Equestrian Facilities Plan
Key user groups Woodend Pony Club and Riddells Creek Adult Riding Club feel
Equestrianleft inlimbo
they have been left in limbo
Woodend Pony Club president Sharon Banner said few details had been discussed with the groups about potential options
“We are very surprised and very disappointed at the implication in both of these documents that our grounds are unsuitable for equestrian pursuits and that we should be moved on with no suggestion of new grounds for us to move to and how that might be funded,” she said
Equestrian facilities at the reserve include three sand arenas, a grandstand arena, 70 yards and cross-country course
Continued page 3
Club calls forexemption
AmyHume
Kyneton Bowling Club is calling for an explicit exemption from Macedon Ranges Shire Council’sproposed Gambling Harm Minimisation Policy
The policy threatens to shut down KBC’spokies, raising uncertainty about the club’sfuture sustainability as it would prevent any form of gambling at council-owned or managed sites.
KBC has been acornerstone of the local community since 1876 and has always operated under acouncil lease. Its current lease expires in 2027.
Club chairperson Paula Adams said the club’sclosure was avery real risk if forced to divest itself of gaming machines.
“Wemust express our concern that an unintended consequence of the proposed policy could indeed result in the closure of our club without the revenue generated by the EGMs,” she said.
“Wefeel it is extremely important to highlight that if EGMs are removed from the club, these licences will inevi-
tably shift to aprivately owned operation.
“The club applies 100 per cent of its revenue to providing asporting and social facility for Kyneton, and supporting other,local, not-for-profit organisations.”
The club introduced 25 gaming machines in 1995 to assist with what it described as “flagging finances”.
EGMs have helped to fund a$5.5million redevelopment at the club in 2006-8, which included anew clubhouse, bowling green and gaming premises. The club also provides donations and contributions to various community groups in the local area.
KBC is seeking an explicit exemption to continue operating as it has for the past two decades.
They draw on examples set by other councils, such as Mornington Peninsula Shire and City of Greater Bendigo, which introduced similar gaming policies –neither propose to shut down existing EGMs.
The EGM cap for Macedon Ranges is 355 while the shire operates well below that cap with atotal of 103 EGMs.
These EGMs are spread across Kyneton Bowling Club,
RSL and Gisborne’sVictorian
they generated atotal loss of $9,089,731. It is believed just 18.05 per cent of that figure was attributable to the bowling club.
Ms Adams said the club was considering all options to keep its doors open.
While the club could be eligible for grant opportunities through the council if it relinquished its EGMs, club members were concerned significant investment would be required.
“The club is committed to working on astrategic plan for our future, exploring all possibilities to ensure the ongoing viability of our business and community hub in collaboration with council,” Ms Adams said.
“As part ofour future strategic planning, we will investigate options, including the potential to take over the management of the site, and the potential toacquire the Crown land.”
Councillors are expected to make adecision on the Gambling Harm Prevention Policy at their ordinary meeting on August 28.
Kyneton
Tavern. In 2022/23
Woodend Pony Club has multiple events at the Woodend Racecourse Reserve every month
Help to discover apast life
Whowere your forebears? What did they do? Wasitreally true about what has been passed down the line about what great-great granddad got up to?
August is designated Family History Month. Organised by the Australasian Federation of Family History Organisations it encourages people to explore their family backgrounds and learn more about who they are. This not only adds to your story,but also to the story of the nation or the district you live in and gives us knowledge about the past, our personal history and the nation’shistory
Family history is becoming more and more popular for people to investigate, in part because sources are more readily accessible than they were decades ago thanks to the Internet. Teresa Collis of Little Things Genealogy has been hooked on family history for many years going way back most of her life.
“It began as ateenager,” Teresa said. “My grandmother mentioned my great-great-grandmother and Iwanted to find out more!” Mind you, that was in ‘snail mail’ days and ayoung Teresa had to wait four to six weeks for any certificates or paperwork she requested (with acheque enclosed) from the relevant government office to arrive in her hands.
She said she was lucky to have grandparents to give her first-hand information about her ancestors, but others were not so lucky.Asagenealogist, she has the skills to do family research for aperson and has alifetime of know-how gathered to interpret the data.
“How do you know the John Smith you find online is really the right John Smith?” Teresa said.
“I make sure that the conclusions Idraw based on data I see are accurate,” she said.
dig up your past!
So when researching your family tree, take advice from Teresa and as she said, don’t let agoodstory get in the way of the truth!
Of course, with many years investigating people’sfamily trees, Teresa knows just where those resources are that she can get her hands on to get the facts to add to your story.She can also add to what you already know if you hit that brick wall!
She suggested that local historical societies are good resources for beginning or continuing to research your family’s past.
For example, one such place is the Kyneton Historical Society at 75 Piper Street. It is staffed by volunteers who can point you in the right direction where your family tree is concerned. The society is open Tuesday 9am-1pm and Saturday 9am-2pm. y
Fromlittlethings, bigthings
If you’ve started exploring you family’s story, you’ll know it’s exciting, addictive,and sometimes challenging.
It’s often the littlest things –anold photograph, a letter, atrinket–thatlead to the biggest discoveries. And the biggest questions!
After 40 years researching her own family tree and helping others do the same, Teresa Collis has launched Little Things Genealogy.
Whether you are simply curious about whereyour family came from or if you are looking for deeper insights into how your ancestors lived their lives, Little Things Genealogy can conduct local, national, and overseas research and supply detailed reports and essays. If you are “stuck”inyour own research, Little Things Genealogy can offer advice and further research to help you break down that genealogical brick wall!
Teresa holds aDiploma of Family History, and has extensive knowledge of Australian,English, Scottish, Irish, Channel Islands, and New Zealand records. She is amember of anumber of Family History Societiesand has published articles in Ancestry.
www.littlethingsgenealogy.com.au
teresa@littlethingsgenealogy.com.au
Teresa Collis would love to help you
From page 1
“Wehave multiple events on these grounds every month and they have recently been used by another club for several major dressage events with over 90 competitors who complimented the arenas and facilities,” Ms Banner said.
“In our 35 years at the reserve there has been alot of money and effort put into these facilities and it would be ashame to see the pony club and adult riding club forced offthese grounds.”
Riddells Creek Adult Riding Club was required to relocate to Woodend in 2008 from its previous home at Riddells Creek due to development.
RCARC’sRebecca Beaumont said the club had little communication with the council about what could be another move.
“As anot-for-profit volunteer-based HRCAVclub, we have invested significant funds and volunteer hours in the facility over the years,” she said.
“Wehave had no discussions with the MRSC about possible alternative grounds, should they choose to cease equestrian activities at Woodend. The lack of communication and transparency is concerning, who knows what the future holds?”
MRSC told the Express there were currently no preferred locations for potential relocation of equestrian facilities. Council suggested this was something that would likely be investigated further,pending the outcome of the current consultation and the
progression of the master plan.
The reserve also houses Buffalo Stadium and is home to various sporting clubs and user groups including basketball, netball, pétanque, cricket and football.
Council said the opportunities and issues paper for the reserve had been informed by initial consultation that took place with key user groups and the community in early-mid 2023 to better understand current usage and future needs. Consultation included an online survey,which received more than 60 responses.
Examples of potential opportunities identified for the area include new courts at Buffalo Stadium and outdoors, asecond oval/ new rectangular pitches, and removing some of the site’sexisting older buildings to open up space and improve security
Examples ofissues identified for the area include the site’s heritage overlay,the limited car parking available for larger scheduled events, and the site’s tendency to become waterlogged during winter and spring.
Have your say
Feedback received during this consultation period will be considered by officers to help develop adraft Master Plan for the Reserve, which will goout for further consultation once finalised. Feedback onthe issuesand opportunities paper closes September 5. Submissions can be made via council’sYour Say online engagement hub.
Aug- 22 Sep
Tony Barnes, Belinda Nailon, Bernadette Skinner, Toshiko Fujiyama, Mark Mason, AntonHasell, AlisonCowen, Matt Butterworth, Peter Butterworth, Rachael Steinmann, Gilbert Buchanan,RivanVeen, Fiona Orr, Maxine McKee and more.
To celebrate, join us at the Opening Paid Event 25 Aug. 2-5pm featuring aperformance by Ben‘Bovril’Harrison
Ben Harrison is acontemporary musician whohas worked with some of the music industry's best. Many of his influences,come from the high lonesome sound of oldtime, to more contemporaryiterationsofbluegrass and beyond.
Book online or phone: https://www.trybooking.com/CTAWD
Whether you’vehad surgery,sustained an injury playing sport or working, aresurviving cancer,coping with chronic conditions or building strength, function and independence, our skilled rehabilitation staff arewith youon the road to recovery.
Please join us on amission to ensureour amazing outpatient rehabilitation team have the very latest equipmenttheyneed to deliver exceptional caretoyou and your community
With your help we canupgrade equipmenttechnology and fund newequipmentwehavenot had access to before!
PLEASE DONATE TO PROVIDEACCESS TO GREAT CARE IN OURCOMMUNITY
Scan the QR code or call 5471 3555 to giveusing credit card Visit reception in person at OdgersRoad. Or forEFT transferemail: info@castlemainehealth.org.au
Wage increase forearly years educators
Member for McEwen Rob Mitchell has backed the Federal Government'smove to fund a15per cent wage increase forall early childhood education and care workers.
“Childcare workers dedicate themselves to giving our kids the best start in life. I have seen the impact they have right across McEwen,” Mr Mitchell said.
“This wage increase is long overdue. We cannot thank these workers enough for what they do but we can make sure they are paid right.
“Properly valuing the early childhood education and care workforce is crucial to attracting and retaining workers and vital to achieving the quality early learning sector Australian families deserve.”
The $3.6 billion Federal Government investment was announced last week.
To be eligible for the funding, achildcare provider must agree to limit fee increases to no more than 4.4 per cent over the next 12 months.
This condition puts downward pressure on fees for families and ensures the funding is passed on in full to employees through increased wages.
‘DJAlbo’ danceparty deliversmessage
Agroup of concerned Castlemaine and Bendigo community members connected with the people-powered 'Move Beyond Coal' movement staged alively and loud 'DJ Albo' themed dance party at the office of Bendigo Federal MP Lisa Chesters last Wednesday
The movement seeks action to eliminate the extraction and burning of fossil fuels and donned 'Anthony Albanese' and 'Gina Rinehart' masked avatars to accompany delivery of aletter to the office of the local federal MP
The group is calling on the Albanese government to fulfill its election promises to strengthen our what they describe as our 'broken' environment laws this year to keep us safe from the dangers of cli-
Learn more about becoming a Councillor
Areyou running forCouncil in the 2024 election?
Registerfor the Victorian Local GovernanceAssociation’s candidate information session to learn whatbeing a Councillor is all about.
Thesession will outline Councillors’ legal and regulatory obligations, participatory decision-making, the importance of codes of conduct, and essential community leadership skills thatmodel good governance.
If youwant to makeadifferenceinyour community,come along and find out more.
mate change and immediately cease approval of more coal and fossil gas projects.
The group say Gina Rinehart and other mining billionaires are personally lobbying Prime Minister Albanese to weaken environment lawreform and stop aclimate trigger being put into the nation’senvironment laws, namely the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act, which is currently under review
"Weneedtodemonstrate strong community support for aclimate trigger.That’swhy in the week before the legislation goes to the senate we’re taking action at ALP offices throughout Australia while our MPs are back in their electorates," aspokesperson said.
Castlemaine and Bendigo members of ‘Move Beyond Coal’ descendedonBendigo Federal MPLisa Chesters office last Wednesday.
Road ‘a catastrophe waitingtohappen’
Residents have aired frustration over a"lack of action" in speed reduction on Pearsons Road in Trentham East.
They say the road's100km/h speed limit is "another catastrophe waiting to happen" and its not the first time they've called for action.
"With vehicles, trucks and tradespeople numbers ever on the increase, at 100km/h nothing on the road stands a chance," said Susie Kilby,Trentham East resident.
"I'm doing everything Ican to advocate for change. Prevention is much better than an accident. Ifeel there'salways ashadow of another catastrophe waiting to happen."
In 1980, Ms Kilby was one of the first responders at the scene of amulti-fatal car crash where the Pearsons Road intersects with James Lane.
She successfully campaigned for the give way signs to become stop signs, but decades later,the road speed remains aconcern.
Ms Kilby is also calling for refreshed line-marking and for the road to be widened at the Chanters Lane end.
Hepburn and Macedon Ranges shire councils share a management plan for the road.
For clarity,a small section of Pearsons Road borders both shires (between James Lane and Hickeys Road). Hepburn is responsible for coordinating required works to this section, with the agreement seeing Macedon Ranges contributing half of the required funding. Pearsons Road then turns into Chanters Lane, which Macedon Ranges is responsible for maintaining.
Councils work with Department of Transport and Planning to assess and determine speeds on council-managed roads, based on DTP’sTraffic Engineering Manual and Speed Zoning Guidelines.
AHepburn Shire spokesperson said the last evaluation of Pearsons Road was undertaken in 2018.
"The review did not recommend aspeed limit change as the hazards identified were either rectified through maintenance or isolated in their nature," they said.
"The guidelines at the time state that roads shall be evaluated in their entirety,not in isolated sections. The evaluation took into account the measured speeds, with 85 per cent of vehicles travelling at 85km/h or less."
Both Hepburn and Macedon Ranges shire councils have committed to reviewing the road against the updated guidelines.
Hepburn said various improvements had been carried out for Pearsons Road including signage, line-marking, parking restrictions, vegetation management, drainage works and pavement patching.
Current capital works includerehabilitation of the eastern end of Pearsons Road and Chanters Lane in the 2024/25 financial year
Hepburn Shire Council has preliminary planning for James Lane /Pearsons Road intersection works subject to future state road safety funding.
MRSC'sacting director of assets and operations, Simon Finlay,confirmed works on Chanters Lane were scheduled.
"Reconstruction of asection of Chanters Lane from Ashbourne Road to Pearsons Road (Hickeys Road) has
been funded in council’sbudget and works are scheduled to start later this year,pending relevant permits," he said.
"In partnership with Hepburn, these works will extend to include 600m of Pearsons Road (just past Beatties Road)."
He said, outside of these works, over the past two years MRSC has undertaken minor road stabilisation and resealing works to sections of Chanters Lane between Ashbourne Road andTylden-Woodend Road, and re-sheeted the shoulders of the narrow sealed section of Chanters Lane.
"More broadly,MRSC will undertake an audit of all council-managed roads in the 2024/25 financial year, which will determine road priorities for the next four years," he said.
Wildlife fatalities are an unfortunate regular occurrence on Pearsons Road due tothe 100km/h speed limit, residents say
Kate takes the helm
Kyneton District Business and Tourism Association Inc. trading as Business Kyneton has welcomed anew president as of July 1with Kate Kendall taking the helm. Kate has 20 years of global experience in the tech, media and startup space and has led many volunteer-based business communities.
Business Kyneton is anon-profit, volunteer-run organisation. Its goal is to unite the business community,support members and advocate for local businesses in the Macedon Ranges.
Outgoing president TimSullivan will stay on the committee as vice-president and is joined by TimEllen as treasurer,and Claire Miller and Dean Lamb asgeneral committee members.
Kate is excited to collaborate across the local ecosystemwith similar non-profit groups like The Eastern Macedon Ranges Business and Tourism Association andThe Woodend Traders Group to make doing business in the Ranges easier
In 2025, Business Kyneton will celebrate 20 years as an incorporated association. Kate is keen to acknowledge community members who have helped build Business Kyneton in the past and welcomes anyone to reach out to share stories about its history
Business Kyneton has launched aweekly coffee morning at 9am on Fridays at Courtyard Kyneton –non-members and members are welcome to attend. Business Kyneton will announce afireside chat networking event and alarge-scale Macedon Ranges Business Survey shortly.The secretary position is currently vacant and open for expressions of interest. The AGM will be held on Tuesday November 26 at 6pm at The Kyneton Hotel. Visit businesskyneton.com.au or email info@businesskyneton.com. au for more.
Kate Kendall is the new president of Business Kyneton.
Extensionaretro revival
Angela Crawford
When Eric Burton decided to downsize he took it to the extreme.
He bought the smallest house in Woodend –asingle-room cabin measuring 23sqm on asubstantial 1175sqm block in Forest Street.
The bonus of the cabin, however,was that it came with abuilding permit.
So instead of tearing it down and building again, Eric is ‘extending’ the cabin, thereby avoiding alengthy planning permit process.
“Initially Iwas going to get the caravan and live in that until Iworked something out, but then Isaw the Beachcomber in a magazine and Ithought, that’sit!” he said.
The Beachcomber is aretro house designed in the 1960s. The name ‘Beachcomber’ was areference to the raised beach houses that populated the coastline around Malibu in Los Angeles.
Eric realised he could build around and above the original cabin on his property to recreate the design in amodest but much more comfortably sized home.
“Today,everybody’sbuilding these mansions, five bedrooms and everything, and you often find they’re just an old couple but
they wanted their dream home,” he said.
“Now with interest rates going up, it’svery hard to sell them, because they’re so expensive to buy
“Whereas this is asimple construction, and will give me all the room Ineed.”
The ‘extention’ also means Eric can paint it in any colours he wants.
“I can paint it the way Iwant so it will have blue and there’ll probably be some yellow underneath the rafters under the skillion,” he said.
“Because this is an ‘extension’ of a2011home, back then these colours were allowable, but now they’re not, if you build new you have to paint in muted colours.”
The unusual build in Woodend is certainly piquing the interest of locals.
“Everyone now sees it because everybody drives up here and it really stands out,” Eric told the Express
“If Ibuild something, it’sgot to look right to fit the site.
“If Ibuild alow house, like the neighbour,it’sjust going to be like everyone else’sand it just won’t pop.”
The Woodend Beachcomber is being built by Gray Construction.
Medical transport education sessions
Information sessions will support older people in the Macedon Ranges to confidently navigate transport to medical appointments. Macedon Ranges Shire Council is facilitating the sessions in partnership with local business Lily’sTravels. Each session will include apresentation, opportunities for questions and answers, and take-home information kits including timetables/itineraries.
Anyone who might regularly need to travel to attend medical appointments, or need to regularly travel more broadly,isencouraged to register and attend the sessions.
Five sessions will be hosted across Kyneton, Gisborne, Romsey,Woodend and Riddells Creek from August 22 to September 20. For the full details, and to register,visit: mrsc.vic.gov.au
Eric Burton and the carpenters from Gray Construction.
Communitygathers to supporthomeless
Local staffand volunteers supporting those who find themselves at risk of homelessness gathered in Kyneton last week for abarbecue lunch.
The event, organised by Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health and catered for by The Kindness Collective Kyneton and the Kyneton branch of the Rapid Relief Team, was held to mark Homelessness Week.
The latest Census figures show that at least 30,000 Victorians experience homelessness on any given night.
Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health, who are the housing support service and access point for homelessness services in the Macedon Ranges, worked with more than 200 adults and young people in the last year who were seeking housing assistance.
Kate Weston, team leader of the housing support team, said that as well as raising awareness about the causes and the impacts of homelessness, they wanted to do something to say thank you to the many people and organisations locally who support people experiencing homelessness.
“Our staffworkclosely with local op shops, service groups and community organisations who all contribute to supporting those who need help," Kate said.
"Recently we received abig basket of care packs from the Macedon Country Women’sAssociation containing toys, games and essential toiletries for families.”
The Kindness Collective based in Kyneton, as well as being an op shop, has afood bank, soup kitchen and adrop-in space providing asafeand friendly environment for locals to stop by if they need achat. They also have free counselling available once aweek.
Hugh Vardon, who manages the not-for-
profit organisation, said that they had seen aconsiderable increase in people seeking their assistance, most commonly families and individuals who cannot afford to feed themselves.
“Wewant to do our best to end hunger in the Macedon Ranges. We do it one person at atime and we will not stop until we achieve that for the community,” Hugh said.
Last month the soup kitchen produced 40 three-course meals per day four days aweek and in July they had 796 individu-
•gardensoil• rubbleand building materials• aerosols
•batteries ande-waste includingvapes
These items can’tbecollected throughyourregular wasteand recyclingservicesbecausetheycan be dangeroustostaffatsorting facilities or may harm our environment. Instead, they must be takentospecific drop-offlocations so they canbeprocessedsafely.
Asmall act makes abig impact
Find adrop-off location near you: www.mountalexander.vic.gov.au/ My-Property/Waste-and-recycling
als and families on their database who accessed the food bank 1411times over the month.
James Thomas, the Rapid Relief Team’slocal team leader,saidthataswell as providing food at events and as part of emergency disaster relief efforts, the team’svolunteers also aimed to assist with homelessness, poverty and hardship.
“Wehave blankets, care kits and food boxes for those experiencing difficult times, which locally we supply to organisations like Sunbury and Cobaw and The
Kindness Collective," James said.
"RRTdelivers hope and relief to people across the globe. Whether it be fire, flood or humanitarian need, RRTexpands their support services to meet the crisis at hand.”
If you live in the Macedon Ranges and are at risk ofhomelessness, you can contact Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health on5421 1666 or visit them at 1 Caroline Chisholm DriveKyneton. The Kindness Collective can be found at 60 Mollison Street Kyneton.
The Kindness Collective manager Hugh Vardon, Cobaw housing support team leader Kate Weston and Rapid Relief Team’s local team leader James Thomas.
Warm up at the library
Macedon Ranges residents are being encouraged to take advantage of the shire’slibraries as free ‘warm spaces’ during colder months.
Macedon Ranges Shire Council supports an initiative to utilise libraries at Gisborne, Kyneton, Woodend and Romsey during business hours, to help people reduce energy costs and stay connected.
The initiative is in partnership with Goldfields Libraries, and Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health. In addition to offering literature in different formats including books, eBooks and audiobooks, all four libraries also have free wi-fi, daily newspapers and free activities for all ages.
Goldfields Library Corporation’smanager of engagement and operations, Jess Saunders, said many people were experiencing cost-of-living pressures and libraries could help ease some of those burdens.
"Libraries are safe and inclusive spaces, and everyone is welcome to use them," she said.
"You can stay all day in acomfortable warm environment, surrounded by friendly people, without needing to spend any money or worry about running up energy bills."
Arange of support services are also available for those experiencing hardship, provided locally by Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health.
The organisation’steamleader of housing support and financial services, Kate Weston, said they could assist anyone who was homeless or at risk of homelessness in the Macedon Ranges.
"Wecan also refer people to other services that the organisation offers such as counselling and family services," Ms Weston said.
"The warm spaces initiative offers local community members avaluable source of support where they can access lots of useful information."
If you or someone you know is experiencing homelessness, contact Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health (Monday-Friday,9am-5pm) on 5421 1666 or the Launch Housing Emergency Accommodation Crisis Line (after hours) on 1800 825 955.
Lady Whisper presents...
The cream of Castlemaine's comedic talent is set to be on show as part of two sidesplitting cabaret performances – Laugh Out Loud –set to hit the stage at the Phee Broadway Theatre this Saturday August 17.
The performances promise to tickle your funny bone, warm your soul and leave you with a giggle in your step.
Headed up by Lady Whisper, played by local talent Stephanie Harrison, and featuring atalented cast of local performers including comedian Patti Fawcett, joyous singing and dancing barista Luca Sartori, the musical interludes of Brighton Whiteley, played by talented local musician Scott Sanders, and the incomparable Elektra Lite from Ballarat, bringing atouch of drag glamour to the stage, this show has something for everyone.
Lady Whisper returns toher roots in Castlemaine after 13years ofentertaining crowds in Melbourne and rural Victoria. With her unique blend of dance, musical comedy and clowning, she's the perfect hostess to guide you through anafternoon orevening oflaughter and fun.
Stephanie has been working between Castlemaine and Melbourne since the Express last caught up with the local talent and is now juggling teaching 10classes aweekatCastlemaine's renowned Movement Zone Dance Studio with her own acting, singing, acting career.
"I amreallypassionateabout celebrating local talent andI plan to dothatthrough arange of upcoming localevents. Ialso look forward tobringing myone-womanshowto the CastlemaineFringeFestival in 2025and then travelling across regional Victoria and beyondwith hopes of culminating with ashowatthe Edinburgh Fringe," she said
In the meantime, you can catch Stephanie and thetalented cast at the Phee foreither their 3pm or 7pm shows this Saturday August 17. Don't miss out on the laughter and excitement! Get your tickets now at www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1247693
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With attractiverebatesavailable under the Victorian Governments
Lady Whisper, played by Stephanie Harrison, will lead atalented local cast at ‘Laugh Out Loud’.
Putting batteries in your bins poses fire riskstoyour property and to the people who collect your recycling and waste.
Take used batteries to your local drop-off location to keep harmful materials out of your bins and the environment
Asmall act makes abig impact
Find adrop-off location near you: www.mountalexander.vic.gov.au/ My-Property/Waste-and-recycling
17 -23August 2024
Enjoying the magic
There is atimeless magic in the simple act of reading abook. The Children’sBook Council of Australia Book Week celebration is one of the biggest events in the Langley Primary school calendar each year
School principal, Frances Langenberg, said ahighlight of book week was Dress Up Day when all staffand students came to school dressed as their favourite book character who reflected the CBCA theme or as acharacter from their favourite book.
“It’snot just dressing up though. Book Week gives us aterrific excuse to celebrate reading, Australian literature, school and libraries, and the special people who bring books to children,” Ms Langenberg said.
“This year’stheme, Reading is Magic, reminds us that the power of reading goes beyond the words we read on apage, it can be amagical journey that transports you to enchanted worlds, unlocks your imagination and touches your heart.
“The power of your imagination when you read is limitless. When you read you see the story in your mind’seye, you create the story’svisuals, sounds and even the character voices. That’smagic!”
This year during book week, Langley Primary School students will celebrate all the great benefits we gain from reading books, exploring their favourite books across the different learning areas of curriculum. More specifically,Book Week is an opportunity to celebrate the books from the Children’sBook Council of Australia Book of the Year Shortlist. Langley has awell-resourced school library,which is complemented by weekly visits from amobile library staffed by ateacher/librarian, Mrs Russell.
Topbooks at Aesop’s Attic
Children’sBook Week aims to enrich young lives through Australian stories.
Ahighlight of the event is the Children’sBook Council of Australia Book of the Year Awards, which showcase the quality of works by some of Australia’smostcreative people.
Aesop’sAttic Bookshop in High Street Kyneton has a massive range of books for children and young people, including some of of those on the shortlist to take out the prestigious 2024 CBA Book of the Year Award.
Aesop’sAttic owner,Clare McKenna, said this was the 22nd Book Week she had been involved with at the store, which had always carried arange of award-shortlisted books.
Here are just two ofthe works shortlisted for the Book of the Year awards in the Picture Book category this year,which you can find at Aesop’sAttic. Drop in and ask Clare, she’ll direct you to more and thosein other categories, too!
Can YouTeach aFish to Climba Tree?
Written by Jane Godwin and illustrated by Terry Denton and from Bright Light (Hardie Grant Children’sPublishing imprint), this book is humorous and imaginative and, according the the Children’sBook Council, it’sagreat device to engage readers in reflections and discussions s about self-acceptance, diversity and understanding others.
Gymnastica Fantastica!
By Briony Stewart from Lothian Children’sBooks (Hachette Australia imprint), Gymnastica Fantastica! conveys an abundance of energy and life children will connect with. Written in rhyming text, it is accompanied by pencil, ink, crayon, gouache and digital illustrations filled with action to match the energetic text.
17 -23August 2024
Fewpeople leave empty-handed
Children of all ages are welcome at Woodend Bookshop. The owners encourage child literacy with a large children’sbook section containing both second-hand and asmall new book selection. With the shop’s aim of providing the best, you will find favourites like Dr Suess and HarryPotter, as well as agood range of Australian classics. Besides fiction, there are collectable children’sbooks from past generations, like Biggles and Enid Blyton books, and nonfiction and activity books. There is asofainthe children’s section for bookworms to start reading or for parents to read to younger children. All ages are catered for with picture books to young adult fiction. The staffcan advise about age appropriate books as all staffare parents and all have abackground in teaching or book-publishing and along association with books. In other ways the shop encourages reading. For the thrifty, bargain bins of $1 children’sbooks are outside the shop. Specific books can be ordered, for example agift set of Paddington Bear or Beatrix Potter or Lord of the Rings Another outreach of the shop involves weekly visits to the
Woodend Goodstart Early Learning Centre for story reading sessions that introduce little ones to avariety of stories. The story books are donatedtothe centre to build agood starting library If you haven’t made to trip to the Woodend Bookshop, it’sworth avisit. The shop is open seven days from 10am-4pm. Younever know what you’ll find. Few people leave empty-handed.
They love agoodstory
You’ll find a good read here
In the heart of Castlemaine sits Stoneman’s Bookroom, regional Victoria’slongest-running independent bookstore.
With avastarray of genres both commercial and eclectic, alarge collection of local and Indigenous history,and staffranging from age 16 to 66 available to provide insight into any category,Stoneman’sisstill going strong after more than 60 years. The bookstore also boasts ayouth section, which contains more than 7000 children’s books.
Beloved Australian picture book authors Mem Fox and Jackie French share the shelves with new pioneers like Oliver Jeffers and Jon Klassen. Emily Rodda and Roahl Dahl classics square offagainst Rick Riordan and Neal Shusterman adventures, while the scientific and environmental non-fiction sections are abundant with knowledge just waiting to be imparted. Local authors like Trace Balla, Martine Murray and Bridget Farmer are just apage-turn away,and board books catering to even the youngest among us abound.
With all the newest releases and trends, whether it be the most recent Heartstopper or Wings of Fire graphic novels, or seemingly every Bluey book in existence, Stoneman’sBookroom has something for every child, even those who have grown up.
Equipment appeal
Dhelkaya Health’s2024 Equipment Appeal is in full swing and the local hospital welcomes donations to provide new equipment for its outpatient rehabilitation service.
For ambulatory care manager Alex Culvenor, whose team delivers this service, the annual appeal is already making adifference.
The Castlemaine Rouleurs’ Murray to Moyne relay recently funded two new exercise bikes for the rehabilitation service this year.The step-through bike and recumbent bike will help increase the options available for clients of the service who are on the road to recovery
“Whenever we renew equipment we get better designs that are easier for clients to use and enable us to really transform our gyms and treatment spaces. The bikes are agreat example of this. However, this time on our wish list is some technology that we haven’t had in the tool kit before,” Alex said.
Dhelkaya Health’soutpatient rehabilitation is a diverse area of practice offering afull range of treatment services, including in the areas of neurological, musculoskeletal, mobility and balance, cardio pulmonary,cancerrehabilitation and pain management. Key to recovery for clients is integrating care from other Dhelkaya Health services.
“New equipment means we can take big steps forward and it’salso great for the team because it gives staffmore ways to approach issues that affect people’sfunction. We aren’t just helping people recovery from specific injuries, we’re building strength, confidence and independence so people can live their best lives.”
Alex is confident that the team’sclients will feel the benefit of the new equipment the appeal will deliver
If you would like to contribute to the 2024 Equipment Appeal you can donate using acredit card by calling 5471 3555 or online at dhelkayahealth.org. au/donate/events-fundraising
My council, my vote
Vote by postthis October
Ballot packswillbemailedtovotersenrolledin
the Hepburn Shire Council generalelection from Monday 7October.Complete and return your ballotmaterial ASAP.Ballotmaterialmustbein the mail or delivered to the election manager by 6pmonFriday25October
If you will be away
Plant trees forbees
Bee Friendly Farming’spopular Tree Grants are back to support farmers across the country to plant more trees for bees. Grants of up to $10,000 are available to farmers and land managers to plant pollinator-friendly trees that are indigenous to their farms, with Bee Friendly Farming providing $1 for every tree planted, thanks to grant partner One Tree Planted. The program is administered by Wheen Bee Foundation. Applications must be received on or before 5pm on Tuesday,September 10.
Hepburn ShireCouncil postal election
Howtonominate as acandidate
To nominateasacandidate, you must:
•beanAustralian citizen and enrolledonthe voters roll forHepburn ShireCouncilAND
•beeligible to become acouncillor should yoube elected AND •havecompletedthe mandatory candidate training before lodging your nomination with the election manager
To be eligible to apply,farms must either be aBee Friendly Farming Certified farm or have aBee Friendly Farming Certified application submitted and pending approval by the tree grant closing date.
Apply for Tree Grants at: beefriendlyfarming.org.au/treegrants-application
Apply to become Bee Friendly Farmingcertified at: beefriendlyfarming.org.au/categories/bff-certified
For more information, email: info@beefriendlyfarming.org. au
If you will be away whenballotpacks aremailed, or your address has changedsinceWednesday 7August, youcan request foryour ballot pack to be redirectedbycompleting the online redirection form at vec.vic.gov.au/redirections,orcall 131832. Requests forredirection mustbereceived by 5pmonMonday 9September
Largeprintand braille ballot papers
Largeprintorbraille ballot papersare available for voters who areblind or havelow vision–please registerby5 pm Tuesday 10 September.Toregister, call 03 8620 1314 during business hours.
Early votes
If you will be away during the voting period (7–25October),you cangotoyourlocal electionofficeto vote in person, from 10 am on Wednesday 18 September
The Hepburn ShireCouncil election office is at: 79ARaglan Street Daylesford
To nominate, completethe nomination form and lodge it with the election manager together with the $250 nomination fee. Nomination forms canbelodgedbyappointmentduring businesshoursfromMonday 9September until 12 noon on Tuesday 17 September at the election office Visit vec.vic.gov.au formoreinformation and to pre-complete your nomination form using the online CandidateHelper.The online CandidateHelper will be available from Tuesday 20 August.
If you usethe online CandidateHelper,printyour pre-completedform andmakeanappointment to lodge it with theelection manager along withthe nominationfee
Call the election manager from Monday 9September on 131832 to make anomination appointment
Nominations close 12 noon Tuesday 17 September
Candidate information sessions
4:30 pm Wednesday4SeptemberatCreswick Town Hall,70AlbertStreet, Creswick
2pmThursday 5September at The Mechanics Trentham, 66 High Street, Trentham
Candidateinformation kitscontaining nomination forms and other electoralinformation will be available online and from the election manager
State-enrolled voters canregisterfor free VoterAlertSMS andemail reminders at vec.vic.gov.au
Grants of up to $10,000 are available to farmers and land managers to plant pollinator-friendly trees.
Changing the narrative
Macedon Ranges Suicide Prevention Action Group is hosting its annual community walk at Woodend in September
The walk will take on this year’sWorld Suicide Prevention Day theme: 'Changing the Narrative on Suicide'. MRSPAG believes that, by changing the narrative, people can move away from aculture of silence and stigma to one of openness, understanding and support.
The MRSPAG community walk will be held at the Woodend Children'sPark on September 8.
Registrations open at 8.30am with preentertainment and speeches. The walk will begin at 10am and end at the same place followed by refreshments.
The walk is also aday to reflect on those lost to suicide. Personal stories of suicidal thoughts or attempts, and experiences of recovery,can inspire hope in others that they too can move through the period of distress or crisis.
By speaking openly and honestly about suicide, others can understand what it means to feel suicidal and how they can
NBN outage in Woodend
Vandals looking for copper damaged NBN infrastructure in Macedon last Friday,causing an internet outage that impacted about 2300 customers.
An NBN Co spokesperson said the outage began about 3am on Friday morning and crews were working to restore internet and phone services.
"NBN apologises to the community for the inconvenience," the spokesperson said. Field teams were able to restore NBN connectivity to the area early Saturday morning.
The Woodend/Macedon area was similarly affected in 2023 when thieves stole thousands of dollars worth of copper from asite at Mt Holden near Sunbury
The NBN spokesperson said police were investigating.
support their loved ones in acrisis.
To request the name of aloved one who died by suicide to be read out before the walk, email: suicidepreventionwalk@ mrspag.com.au
For more information on resources and support services for those bereaved by suicide, visit the MRSPAG website: mrspag.com.au/other-support
If you need help now call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or text047713 11 14 (6pmmidnight). The Suicide Call Back Service is available on: 1300 658 467.
Firearmstolen
Police are investigating aburglary at Darreweit Guim on July 25.
It is believed offender/s attended the Bolinda Darraweit Road residence about 3.15am and stole afirearm and ammunition. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Macedon Ranges Suicide Prevention Action Group is hosting its annual community walk at Woodend in September.
Newname forkinder
Macedon Ranges Shire Council has announced aproposed name for Lancefield’s new in-development kindergarten and Maternal and Child Health service, chosen with input from current kinder kids.
The Lancefield Childrens Centre is the name proposed, selected from three shortlisted options: Lancefield Family Centre OR Lancefield Childrens Centre
Silver WattleFamily Centre OR Silver Wattle Childrens Centre
Bundha Family Centre OR Bundha Childrens Centre (Bundha being aWoiwurrung word, meaning "unity")
Council’sDirector Community,Maria Weiss, said 67 children currently enrolled at Lancefield Kindergarten were presented with this list of potential names and had the chance to discuss and learn about the proposed names, and select apreferred name.
"The children discussed that ‘Lancefield’ as aname was important to them, because "it was their home, where they lived, where they rode and walked to kindergarten and what the current kindergarten was called"," she said.
"While we have consulted broadly on these names, it was really fitting to be able to provide the current kinder kids with this opportunity to directly be involved and help set alegacy for future kinder attendees."
Feedback on the process behind the proposed name is invited until August 30 via council’s'Your Say' online engagement hub.
ACultural Heritage Management Plan for the site had been submitted and it is expected that works can recommence by the end of the year and be completed between April and June 2025.
VIEWClub might be for you!
Macedon RangesShireCouncil postal election My
council, my vote
Vote by postthis October
Ballotpackswillbemailedtovotersenrolledinthe
Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil general election from Monday 7October.Complete and return your ballotmaterial ASAP.Ballotmaterial mustbe in the mail or delivered to the election manager by 6pmonFriday 25 October
If you will be away
If you will be away when ballotpacksare mailed, or your address has changedsinceWednesday 7August, you canrequestfor your ballotpack to be redirectedbycompleting the online redirection form at vec.vic.gov.au/redirections,orcall 131832
Requests forredirection mustbereceived by 5pmonMonday 9September
Largeprintand braille ballotpapers
Largeprintorbraille ballotpapersare available for voters whoare blind or havelow vision–please registerby5pmTuesday 10 September.Toregister, call 03 8620 1314 during business hours.
Early votes
If you will be away during the votingperiod (7–25October), you cangotoyour localelection office to vote in person,from10amonWednesday18September
The Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil election office is at:
WoodendCommunity Hub 49 ForestStreet
Woodend
Howtonominate as acandidate
To nominateasa candidate, you must:
•beanAustralian citizen and enrolledonthe voters roll forMacedon Ranges ShireCouncil AND •beeligibletobecome acouncillor should you be elected AND •havecompletedthe mandatory candidate training before lodging your nomination with the election manager
To nominate, complete the nomination form and lodge it with the election manager together with the$250nomination fee. Nomination formscan be lodgedbyappointmentduring business hoursfromMonday 9September until 12 noon on Tuesday 17 September at the election office Visit vec.vic.gov.au formoreinformation and to pre-complete your nomination form usingthe online CandidateHelper.The online CandidateHelper will be available from Tuesday 20 August.
If you use the online CandidateHelper,print your pre-completedform and makeanappointment to lodgeitwith the election manager along with the nomination fee.
Call the election manager from Monday 9September on 131832 to makea nomination appointment.
Nominations close 12 noon Tuesday 17 September
Are you new to the Kyneton/ Woodend area and keen to meet other local women?
Are you recently retired or semiretired with abit of extra time on your hands?
Or do you just want to widen your friendship circle while working to support Australian school students?
Then, the new Kyneton VIEW Club might be just what you are after!
Meet other women, have some fun and learn more about how VIEW Club supports The Smith Family’sLearning for Life Program helping students in need.
The new proposed Kyneton VIEW Club meets onthe third Monday each month at 10 for 10am at the Kyneton Bowling Club, Mollison Street.
The next meeting is Monday August 19 and the special guest speaker will beVictoria Gibson, a nurse with aterrific story totell.
Among other jobs, Victoria has worked in Afghanistan andSomalia with Aus Aid, been part of a Doctors for Africa volunteer team in Ethiopia, worked with the Royal Flying Doctor Service, volunteered at the Olympic and Commonwealth Games and been aschool Lollypop Lady in Bendigo! Who knows where Victoria’sstory will take you.
Go along to find out.
Monday August 19, 10 for 10.30am, at the Kyneton Bowling Club in Mollison Street.
Enquiries to LynGeer on 0409 145073 or email lyngeer@bigpond.com
Candidate information session
6pmThursday 5September at Black ForestRoom, Gisborne Administration Centre,40Robertson Street Gisborne
Candidateinformation kitscontaining nomination formsand otherelectoral information will be available online and from the election manager
State-enrolledvoterscan registerfor free VoterAlertSMS and email reminders at vec.vic.gov.au
Victoria Gibson in Ethiopia volunteering with Doctors for Africa.
Petofthemonth
This is Poppy'spony G'day.Hewas born on Australia Day hence his name, but he celebrated his official horse birthday on August 1. He'sa welsh pony,11.2hh and nine years old. G'day loves his food but also loves back scratches and cuddles. Poppy,who isnine years old as well, has ridden G'day at pony club, showing events and horse trials. He is full of spunk but is firmly her best friend and he'sour Pet of the Month for August.
Top cats and dogs
Which breed of cat or dog are Australia's most
Looking after your pet in the cold
As we shiver through the winter chill, we can easily throw on another layer to keep us warm, but given our pets can’t tell us how they feel –how do we know if they’re warm enough?
If you’re feeling the cold, then it’s most likely your pet is also cold.
Dr Candice Priest, veterinary director at Greencross Vets, Macedon Ranges, shares her tips on how to keep your pet warm this winter.
How to tell if your pet is cold
Dogs and cats may curl up on your bed, the lounge or near the heater as they seek warmth. Pets will also avoid lying on cold tiles and will choose to rest in places with warm flooring or carpet.
Shivering, hunched posture and reluctance to go outside are common indicators, however these signs can also be present due to other reasons, such as pain or anxiety.
Tips to keep your pet warm
Ensure your pet has shelter from the elements, particularly if they spend time outdoors. They need to have awarm, draft-free sleeping area with acomfortable bed. Pet clothing, like sweaters or coats can be beneficial for smaller breeds, shorthaired pets, lean and senior pets that are more likely to feel the cold.
Arthritis in pets
Like us, arthritis in pets can flare up during the colder months. If you notice that your dog or cat is not as active as usual, or if they seem abit stiff, are avoiding stairs, jumping onto surfaces or are limping they may have arthritis.
Be sure to provide your pet with warm
and soft bedding and consult with your vet about appropriate pain management options and supplements that can support their joint health.
Pets and colds
Pets can get respiratory infections, often called canine cough or kennel cough, caused by various viruses or bacteria. Symptoms include sneezing, coughing, nasal discharge, and lethargy. These illnesses can range from mild to severe.
If your pet shows any signs, consult with your vet for diagnosis and treatment.
"If you have any questions or concerns about how your pet is coping with the winter weather, we are always here to help," says Dr Priest. See advert below for Greencross Vets contact details.
The team at Greencross Vets Macedon Ranges with alittle patient.
Nominate an inspiring woman
Hepburn will celebrate International Women’sDay with aspecial event and additions to the Heather Mutimer Honour Roll.
Mayor,CrBrian Hood, said council’s IWD event was ahighlight in the shire’s calendar,attracting large attendances and impressive keynote speakers. It was also achance to highlight achievements of local women.
“Weare asking our community to nominate women from the shire that have brought about positive change with inspiring stories of achievement from our past or present,” he said.
“The event provides an opportunity to elevate and focus on local women’s achievements, celebrating and acknowledging those who have had apositive impact on their community and have become role models for generations to come.”
In 2005 the Heather Mutimer Honour Roll was established to pay tribute to women in the Hepburn Shire whose contributions, courage and exemplary actions have led to significant social change for women. Successful nominees are announced and inducted into the Heather Mutimer Honour Roll at the council’sIWD event.
People are encouraged to nominate local women who they think deserve to be recognised. To make anomination, visit: hepburn.vic.gov.au/IWD Nominations are open until September 30. The 2025 event will be held in March 2025.
Discounted therapy forwomen
Holistic counsellor and founder of ‘Women Emerging’, Fran Woodruff, is offering local women achance to discover the power of Hakomi somatic psychotherapy
WomenEmerging aims to assist women navigating the beautiful complexities of midlife transitions and was founded on the belief that every woman deserves to flourish during this transformative period.
The Chewton local is in the final phase of training in Hakomi somatic psychotherapy and invites women to explore the depths their inner self and embrace transformative healing through the practice.
For alimited time this August, Fran is offering sessions as part of a‘Pay What YouCan and What YouThink the Session WasWorth’.
“I’ve been shown a lot of generosity over the last few years and Iwanted to be able to pay it forward and help women during this time of transition,” Fran said.
Helen says she chose to see Fran at atransition point in her life.
“I was navigating the complexities of menopause in aworld oblivious to the importance of rites of passage and with very little
MountAlexander Shire Councilpostalelection
My council, my vote
Vote by postthisOctober
Ballotpackswill be mailedtovotersenrolledinthe
MountAlexander ShireCouncil general election from Monday 7October.Completeand return your ballot material ASAP.Ballotmaterial mustbe in the mail or delivered to the election manager by 6pmonFriday 25 October
If you will be away
If you will be away when ballotpacksare mailed, or your address has changedsinceWednesday 7August, you canrequest foryour ballotpack to be redirected by completing the online redirection form at vec.vic.gov.au/redirections,orcall 131832
Requests forredirection mustbereceived by 5pmonMonday 9September
Largeprintand braille ballot papers
Largeprintorbraille ballot papersare available for voters whoare blind or havelow vision–please registerby 5pmTuesday 10 September.Toregister, call 03 8620 1314 during business hours.
Early votes
If you will be away during the voting period (7–25October), youcan go to yourlocal electionofficeto vote in person, from 10 am on Wednesday 18 September
The MountAlexander ShireCouncil election office is at:
RayBradfield Rooms
33 ForestStreet(entervia supermarket carpark)
Castlemaine
understanding of the physiological changes taking place. Fran’s compassionate presence, empathic ear,and the integrity of her responses allowed me to be fully myself and empowered me to trust my own solutions and follow my heart.”
To learn more or book asession email fran@women-emerging. com
Howtonominate as acandidate
To nominateas acandidate, youmust:
•beanAustralian citizen and enrolledonthe voters roll forMountAlexander ShireCouncil AND
•beeligible to become acouncillorshould you be elected AND
•havecompleted the mandatory candidate training before lodging your nomination with the election manager
To nominate, completethe nomination form and lodge it with the election manager together with the $250 nomination fee. Nomination forms canbelodgedby appointmentduring business hours from Monday 9September until 12 noon on Tuesday 17 September at the election office
Visit vec.vic.gov.au formoreinformation and to pre-completeyour nomination form using theonline CandidateHelper.The online CandidateHelper will be available from Tuesday 20 August.
If you use the online CandidateHelper,printyour pre-completed form and makeanappointment to lodge it with theelection manager along with the nomination fee.
Call the election manager from Monday 9September on 131832 to makea nomination appointment.
Nominationsclose 12 noon Tuesday 17 September.
Candidate information session
6:30 pm Thursday 5September at Council Chamber, MountAlexander Civic Centre,27LyttletonStreet, Castlemaine
Candidateinformation kitscontaining nomination formsand otherelectoral information will be available online and from the election manager
State-enrolledvoterscan registerfor free VoterAlertSMS and email reminders at vec.vic.gov.au
Fran Woodruff uses her training and life experience to assist other women.
Artistexplores Australianurban life
From super cool hipsters to art world afficionados, street artists, mums and dads, commuters, dog walkers and lackadaisical youth, Castlemaine's own Rob McHaffie has keen observations of everyday surroundings, which reveal the idiosyncrasies and absurdities of contemporary Australian urban life with colour, whimsy and humour.
McHaffie's latest major exhibition surveys his recent work including new painting, collage, works on paper and ceramic sculpture in avibrant showcase of the artist’s buoyant and broadranging creative vision.
McHaffie told the Express the exhibition was the biggest he'd ever had –spread across five galleries and featuring amix of new and borrowed works.
"It's rejuvenating to see," he said.
"Each work marks adifferent time in my life and different memories come back."
McHaffie applies collage techniques to portraiture and narrative paintings to reassemble and re-picture people, settings and moments, both real and imagined.
Through pop culture references to musings on domesticity and human relationships, his work reveals an enjoyment of and
Riders at the ready
Riddells Creek Primary School is one of the latest recipients of funding in the state government's Community Road Safety Grants Pprogram.
The school was granted $2400 for a trailer and 20 bicycles for its Bike Education and Maintenance Program.
Other initiatives to gain funding include education sesssions and campaigns for vulnerable drivers, programs addressing fatigue, learner/probationary driver programs and anti-drink/anti-drug education.
The program will also fund roadside banners, speed advisory signage and mobile billboards as part of targeted community awareness campaigns to deter high-risk behaviour like speeding, drink driving, using amobile phone, or driving tired.
amusement at life and the performativity of our public and private selves.
"My works are about social observations and interactions, as well as art and art history, but since moving to Castlemaine I've been painting more nature. There are pictures of the Res, kangaroos and aquirky piece of nine paintings about cafe life in Castlemaine –inspired by the cafes here and the types of people who visit them," McHaffie said.
Born in 1978, Rob McHaffie spent his formative years in Melbourne before moving to Castlemaine in 2019 with his young family. He holds aBachelor of Fine Arts (Drawing) and aMaster of Fine Art from the Victorian College of the Arts, and has been the recipient of numerous awards and residences, and has exhibited widely in Australia and New Zealand over the past twenty years.
His work is held in many public collections including the National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne; Museum of Contemporary Art, Sydney; Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney; Queensland Art Gallery/Gallery of Modern Art, Brisbane; Ian Potter Museum of Art, The University of Melbourne among others.
Rob McHaffie: We are family is on display at the Bendigo Art Gallery from August 10 to January 27, 2025.
The Cafe Set was inspired by Castlemaine’s thriving cafe scene the characters who inhabit them.
Single mums at the Res –featuring the local watering hole at Golden Point.
@
Y YourOPINIONS
No assistancewith trolleys
Kim Sutton, Kyneton
Imagine my surprise when Iattended the Kyneton Woolworths early on Tuesday evening to find that all of the usual trolleys had been replaced with coin or tokenoperated trolleys.
As afrequent in-store shopper and Rewards member Iwasn’t aware of this impending development and was forced to do my shop with abasket. There was no staffmember present at the entrance to assist customers with this change and all of the trolleys appeared to be connected to each other
At no time was Iapproached and offered atoken or explanation, even with an overloaded basket and Ididn’t ask. Most staffseemed very busily engaged with the specials stock change.
Iunderstand that the council adopted new local laws in September 2023 that required where more than 10 shopping trolleys were provided, they had to be fitted with afunctioning coin deposit and release mechanism or alternative locking mechanism. Whether the store was aware that the trolley changeover was happening that day,I’m yet to speak to the store manager as when Icalled the store the phone rang out and Iwas disconnected. Iamwaiting on areturn call, however,I feel that there should have been some consideration given to the actual users of the trolleys and advance notice could have been provided.
I’m in the privileged position that Ihave acar and am able bodied enough to manage afull basket and choose if Iwant to spend my money at Woolworths, but there are many customers that are not so lucky
and perhaps aren’t willing or able to ask stafffor tokens or change to operate the trolleys.
If you also regularly shop at the Kyneton Woolworths, I’m sure you have experienced the shortage of trolleys available at the store front or overflowing trolley collection bays only made worse by the different sizes of trolleys. We can only hope that the trolley collection schedule has been reviewed to account for the need to connect your trolley to return it.
The Kyneton community deserves better than this treatment by amega corporation with what seems little to noconsideration given except for the compliance with the council’slocal law.Perhaps afull page apology in this publication is called for Along with the easy access to tokens to operate these new trolleys. In the meantime, I’ll besupporting other local businesses to feed my family.Because Ican.
Whycut atree down?
ChrisHooper,Castlemaine
Thearticle 'Bureaucratic madness!' in the Express on July 30 made me laugh. Yes, hard gum nuts and acorns can be a bit treacherous to walk on but many,ifnot most, of the footpaths in Castlemaine are unsealed and have all sorts of levels and lumps and bumps.
Old PMG or NBN inspection points are often much lower than the 'footpaths' alongside roads so you can be walking along and suddenly stepdown onto one of these, which can be abit disconcerting and maybe even dangerous.
Why cut atree down because it drops gum nuts but is not near afootpath? We need all the trees we can get.
Turning aproblem into an opportunity
Olivia
Zan, Kyneton
Ihave to applaud Kyneton Scout Group’srefreshing approach to addressing vandalism, as shared in last week’s Midland Express ('Know these tags?', August 6).
Instead of responding with anger,they extended an invitation to the graffiti artists to come back and share their skills with the Scouts.
They’ve turned aproblem into an opportunity for engagement and learning –so inspiring.
Whythe urgency?
Huntly Barton, Greenhill
It seems to me that Macedon Ranges Shire Council wants our elected members to vote on the Kyneton Urban Design Framework before the coming council elections in October
The UDF process has been going onfor years and is over 80 pages long. Why the urgency?
Ihave lost trust in the MRSC bureaucracy.The process of community engagement is run by aliens who have little regard for local sentiment. Some examples: A beautiful stone culvert, crossing atiny creek in Ross Street Malmsbury trashed by aconcrete edifice that has engulfed this classic structure. Road closed for over 12 months, anypeople living on the other side of the culvert had to go via Alice Springs to get home, how muchcan abear bare? Council officers told our councillors that 10 trees in the Kyneton Showgrounds were
ahealth andsafety issue and needed to be removed, Arborists engaged by the Kyneton and District Town Square Co Op advised that one tree only was athreat. The later proved correct, who and where are these officers getting their advice from. An ugly charging station placed outside the supermarket without any consultation. The old primary school precinct fenced off, the bluestone section supposedly finished, and the bulk of the brick section boarded offafter $12M spend. Ask council what is going on and they are quick to advise that this is not in their territory and deflect you to state government authorities. Concerned citizens asked council to give aletter of support for our battle at VCAT over the pollution of the Campaspe River by Coliban Water. Our West Ward councillors were in support, but council officers were not interested, it was like talking to abrickwall. These are some of the issues in my small patch.
Clearly MRSC bureaucracy procedures and processes have become so inefficient that sceptics like me are concerned that an outside force is pulling the levers. It’stime that they listen to our elected members and the community and do the best for us, not the lever pullers.
No vote on the UDF until after the coming election.
Writersare asked to keep letters to a maximum of 300 words. Longer letters may only be published at the editor's discretion.
Names, addresses and contact phone numbers must be included for verification purposes.
Email letters to: acrawford@midnews.com.au
Humorous,thoughtprovokingand deeply moving
For more than 50 years, David Williamson has been the most produced playwright in the history of Australian theatre.
The writer of iconic plays such as Don’s Party, The Club, Money and Friends, The Removalists, Emerald City the list goes on. He has also written numerous film scripts and TV series.
Williamson’s characters are often deeply flawed, but at the core of his work there is adesirefor abetter and more tolerant society. Almost always, each of the characters goes on ajourney through the events of the play with most growing to make positive changes in their lives. The characters in Family Values are no exception.
Directed by Woodend local, David Runnalls, the Mount Players' production of Family Values introduces us to the Collins family as they gather to celebrate their father Roger’s 70th birthday.
The retired Supreme Court Justice and his wife Sue have their plans for aquiet family gathering blown apart after unwittingly bringing together adetention centre escapee, aborder force commander and three siblings all on the verge of unleashing alifetime of simmering resentments.
Humorous, thought provoking and at times deeply moving, Family Values will have audiences laughing while prompting them to consider their own beliefs and values.
With acomplimentary sherry on arrival, awell-stocked bar with the best prices in the Ranges followed by atreat after the show, why wouldn’t you head to the gorgeous Mountview Theatre in Macedon to enjoy aperformance. This stellar cast will not disappoint!
Family Values by David Williamson is on from August 16 –September 1.
Tickets via www.themountplayers.com or call 5426 1892 for assistance.
SUPER QUIZ?
Local knowledge (1 point)
1. What town in the Macedon Ranges did Olympic cyclist Lauretta Hanson hail from? 2. On which street is The Old Auction House in Kyneton located? 3. In which town will The Future Fashionistas Fiesta event take place in September? 4. Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s director of assets and operations, Shane Walden, will depart the organisation to take up the role of chief executive officer for which shire? (3 points)
5. The Mount Alexander Animal Welfare Op Shop Empawrium has recently launched what kind of new venture?
General knowledge (1 point)
6. What is apoinsettia?
7. Fast food chain McDonald’s character Grimace is mostly what colour?
8. What does ‘Li’ represent on the periodic table? 9. The following songs are associated with which music group: Dreams, Go Your Own Way, Rhiannon and The Chain? (3 points)
Aussie swimmer Emma McKeon ended her Olympics career with how many Olympic medals overall?
The Castlemaine Artists Market is planning afun-filled day for locals and visitors alike on Sunday August 25.
It will be home to awide array of talented artists, offering demonstrations in their craft as well as an opportunity to take home something uniquely handmade.
Enjoy delicious food and drink as well as activities for the children.
This monthmarket-goers will be treated to live music by My Gypsy Heart. Atrionot to be missed; you'll be moved by their soaring harmonies.
Art brings joy,beauty and meaning to life. Go along and try your hand at creating in the workshop area.
Whether you are local or visiting the area, there will be something that inspires!
The market will run from 10am-2pm on Sunday August 25 at Western Reserve.
The Mount Players’ stellar cast for Family Values will not disappoint!
Gardensput on ashow
Explore stunning private gardens during the Castlemaine and District Festival of Gardens this November
Acurated selection of 24 gardens will open their gates to the public for nine days during Melbourne Cup week, from Saturday November 2until Sunday November 10.
Anumber of properties are located in Castlemaine itself; while others can be found ashort drive away,inouter-lying areas of the Mount Alexander Shire. How many you visit is entirely up to you, as this is aself-guided experience.
The theme of the festival, The Art of Gardening, celebrates the creativity of gardeners who have turned their patch 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 agood number of the principles as well: contrast, balance, emphasis, proportion, repetition, rhythm, pattern and unity
Visitors will be inspired as they meander around adiverse 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 amemento of your visit.
The festival showcases grand country gardens, historic gardens, verge gar-
dens, sculpture gardens, town gardens of many varieties and apurpose-built accessible garden.
Regular visitors will be delighted to see anumber of gardens which have been part of the festival for many years, together with thirteen exciting new gardens to discover Asouvenir festival program will be available for purchase from August, when you will also find an overview of the gardens on the website www festivalofgardens.org. In the mean time you can stay up to date by following the festival on Facebook @CastlemaineDistrictFestivalOfGardens and Instagram @festivalofgardens or by signing up for the occasional e-newsletter from the website.
Entry to each garden costs $5 per adult, children free. Payment is by cash, direct to the gardener at the gate.
Castlemaine is approximately 120 kilometres north-west of Melbourne: a 90-minute drive from Melbourne city centre and ashort drive from Bendigo and Daylesford. It can also be reached by train on the Bendigo line. Bus groups are welcome at most properties. For those travelling from further afield, there are numerous accommodation options in the region and the Castlemaine Visitor Information Centre offers abooking service.
FINANCIAL MATTER$
How do youstoreyourrecordcollection?
What work-related expenses are you planning to claim on your tax this year and what records do you have to substantiate those deductions?
Australian Taxation Office assistant commissioner Rob Thomson said work-related expenses were akey focus for the ATO.
"Work-related expenses are the largest category of deductions the ATOsees for individuals each year,with more than eight million claims last year," Mr Thomson said.
Records can be kept as apaper version, an electronic copy or atrue and clear photo of an original record. Youcan use any electronic device or app to keep your electronic records. However,the ATOrecommends backing up your electronic records regularly
"Remember,regardless of how you keep your records, you need to keep them for five years from the date you lodge your tax return," Mr Thomson said.
Work-related expenses
The three golden rules to determine if a work-related expense is deductible are
*You must have spent the money yourself
*The expense must directly relate to earning your income
*You must have arecord (usually a receipt) to prove it
"Your deductions may be disallowed if you’re not eligible or you don’t keep the right records," Mr Thomson said.
"A bank statement, on its own, generally isn’t asufficient level of evidence to claim a deduction for work-related expenses."
Working-from-home expenses
Youcan use the fixed rate method or the actual cost method to calculate your working-from-home deduction.
In 2023, more than half of individuals who claimed working-from-home expenses
used the fixed rate method.
With the fixed rate method, you will need arecord of the actual number of hours you worked from home for the whole financial year between July 1–June 30, and at least one record for each of the additional running expenses you incurred that the rate includes. Youmust also keep records for other running expenses you are claiming as aseparate deduction that the rate doesn’t include.
"Toshow your actual hours worked, this can be as simple as atimesheet, spreadsheet, diary or arecord where you log which days you work from home and how many hours you work," Mr Thomson said.
To usethe actual cost method, you need to keep records for any additional running expenses you incurred, the depreciating assets you buy and use while working from home, and show how you apportion work-related use for your expenses and depreciating assets. Youmust also be able to show the time you worked from home during the year
Car expenses
In 2023, more than three million taxpayers claimed adeduction for car expenses.
In order to claim adeduction for car expenses
*You must own or lease the car,
*The expenses must be for work-related trips,
*You must have spent the money yourself and weren't reimbursed,
*You must have the required records.
Vehicles with acarryingcapacity of one tonne or more, or nine or more passengers (such as utes and panel vans) are not included in the definition of acar so must be claimed separately as travel expenses.
The records you require will depend on which method you use to calculate your car expenses –the logbook method, or the cents per kilometre method.
The logbook method involves keeping alogbook that shows your work-related trips for acontinuous period of at least 12 weeks. The 12 weeks needs to be representative of your travel throughout the year Each logbook is valid for up to five income years (but if your circumstances change you may need anew logbook).
Youneed to keep receiptsorother records of your car expenses and then use your logbook to calculate the deductible portion of your car expenses.
Your logbook must include the destination and purpose of every journey,the odometer reading at the start and end
of each journey,and the total kilometres travelled during the period, as well asinclude odometer readings for the start andend of the logbook period, and odometer readings for the start and end of the income year you use the logbook.
The cents per kilometre method allows you to claim aset rate per kilometre, and is all-inclusive, covering all of your eligible car expenses, including registration, insurance, repairs, maintenance, fuel, and decline in value. Youcannot claim these costs separately,elsewhere in your return.
"Using the cents per kmmethod, you are limited to claiming amaximum of 5000 kilometres for each car you use for income producing purposes," Mr Thomson said.
Acurated selection of 24 gardens will open their gates to the public for nine days in November.
Happy HappyBirthday Birthday Birthday Club
Covering the Macedon Ranges and Mount Alexander Shires
TuesdayIssue: Booking and Copy— Noon Thursdayprior FridayIssue Cas. Mail: Booking and Copy— 4.30 pm Tuesdayprior Email: lbrew@midnews.com.au
CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING DEADLINES
TuesdayIssue: (Midland Express) 5pmFriday
“In agoodeconomy there would be no such thing as waste” writes farmer and poet, Wendell Berry
We know this is true of natural systems, where anything that builds up too much, soon becomes aresource for another species or part of the system.
Our industrial economy hasn’t quite comprehended this yet, with ‘wastes’ regularly building up to dangerous levels, causing damage and needing to be managed or 'thrown away'.
But there is no ‘away’ we can throw things, everywhere is connected to everywhere else by air,water and soil and by the creatures that move in and through them. Every landfill site is aneighbourhood, afarm-scape, awater catchment, an ecosystem. Nowhere deserve to be trashed.
FRIDAY, AUGUST
SATURDAY, AUGUST
Home composters seem to understand thesethings intuitively.Rather than seeing food ‘waste’, the composter sees wonderful rich nutrients just waitingto be processed back into their garden. Rather than seeing an annoying pile of leaves and twigs, the composter sees ingredients that will balance those food scraps in their compost pile.
There is no reliable information on just how many home composters there are in each community (information we would dearly love to know here at YIMBY*), but the last time it was asked in the census, 25 per cent of households said they composted, we think it’shigher in rural areas.
We collectively pay for the waste-system through our rates or rents, and the fees are pretty flat, yet the real costs of having our ‘waste’ removed for us goes up and down with how much ‘waste’ we generate and how much ‘waste’ service we use. Bins collected weekly cost more than those collected fortnightly or monthly.Every time atruck stops outside our house to pick up abin it costs. Every kilo or ton of general ‘waste’ or organic matter costs to transport, tip and process and those costs are different for different waste streams.
There are also hidden costs we collectively bear the burden of, like the air and noise pollution from the rubbish trucks and the danger they pose on our streets. Heavy trucks do more damage to our roads than any other vehicle type, grinding up the asphalt, and then the particles from those tyres become the largest contributors to microplastics in our environment, ending up in our soil, our food and our bodies.
We know not everyone can be ahome composter,but those who are do an amazing service for the whole community,keeping tons of material out of landfill, reducing the impact of trucks on our roads, cutting pollution and emissions, cycling ‘waste’ food nutrients back into food and saving usall quite alot of money
If you are one of those home composters, thank you, and please keep up the good work.
–JoelMeadows works with *Yes In My Back Yard, (YIMBY), acommunity-scale composting initiative in Castlemaine and surrounds. Send questions or comments to hello@yimbycompost.com, or to book in for acompost workshop!
Grants forenviro projects
Ablack gum waterways program and bushland restoration project are among the Macedon Ranges and Mount Alexander projects to gain funding support through the Victorian Landcare Grants.
Managed by the North Central Catchment Management Authority and funded by the Victorian Government, the grants provide funding for environmental projects across the catchment and support grants were also awarded to local groups.
MACEDON RANGES
Campaspe River and Land Management group was awarded $14,420 for its Connect Kyneton community to the Campaspe River project.
Threatened Species Conservancy was granted $14,250 for its Black Gum Waterways Program–stage two.
Malmsbury District Landcare Group was awarded $10,500 for its project: ATurn in the Right Direction –Giving aWaste Site a New Future.
The following groups received $500 support grants: Woodend Landcare, Macedon and Mount Macedon Landcare Group, Riddells Creek Landcare, Friends
of Blackhill, Friends of Bald Hill Reserve, Pipers Creek Landcare, and Tylden Landcare group.
MOUNT ALEXANDER Post Office Hill Action Group was awarded $20,000 for its project: Gorse Gone =Phascogale Friendly Habitat. Barkers Creek Landcare and Wildlife Group was granted $19,275 for their work Dug up, Cut Down: a35habushland reserve ecological restoration project. Connecting Country was granted $12,500 for its Seeding Our Future project. Golden Point Landcare received $4600 for its project: Showcasing Forest Creek in aRecovering Landscape.
The following groups received $500 support grants: Muckleford Catchment Landcare Group, Friends of Campbells Creek, Maldon Urban Landcare, Land Covenantors Victoria, Tarrangower Cactus Control Group, Castlemaine Landcare Group, McKenzie Hill Action and Landcare Group, Chewton Bushlands Association, Campaspe Valley Landcare Group, Baringhup Landcare Group, and Newstead Landcare Group.
Joel and (recently retired YIMBY composter) Yael, have aconversation about compost.
Midland
PROPE RT Y&L IVI NG
Stylish andserene
On aserene 5060m2 (1.25 acres) block adorned with native trees sits this impeccably maintained home with spacious workshop enjoying the benefits of town services.
Key features of this exceptional property include the stunning brick homestead with large windows showcasing picturesque views of native gardens.
There is an inviting decked verandah entry and balcony plus an expansive north-facing tiled and covered rear patio, perfect for entertaining.
Inside the home the spacious main bedroom suite with walk-in robe features aluxurious ensuite complete with aspa plus there are three additional double bedrooms, each with built-in robes.
There’sa generous lounge room with acharming bay window plus aspacious living-dining area with new high-quality carpets throughout.
The central kitchen is equipped with adishwasher,new wall oven, and gas cooktop. The ample laundry is complete with storage plus there is afamily bathroom and separate toilet.
Efficient ducted heating and cooling, plus four separate split system air conditioners keep
the house environment comfortable. Outside there is a6x10m garage with power,concretefloor and high clearance, plus an adjoining 6x8m high-clearance, concrete-based caravan port. Adouble carport is under the main roofline.
Extras to enhance life at this property include 2KW solar panels with battery storage and potential for additional panels, alarge dam, a45,000-litre water tank, and town water supply
Property: Impeccably maintained home on 5060m2 (1.25 acres)block
Introducing 207 Donnelly Road in Kyneton. This property offers aprime opportunity for sustainable agricultural pursuits, with adjacent rural properties providing aconducive environment for cultivating olive groves, orchards, vineyards, or equine activities. The quiet location of this property,just minutes away from the townships of Malmsbury and Kyneton, makes it an ideal choice for hobby farmers looking to establish their
Let’s talk REAL ESTATE
With Jennifer Pearce
agricultural endeavours.
Currently zoned for farming with no planning permit, this property presents ablank canvas for those seeking to create their own agricultural paradise. Whether you’re looking to start anew venture or expand an existing operation, the possibilities are endless. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to own a piece of land that holds so much potential.
TOP TIP FORA BUYER: What is the History of this property?
You may worry about prying, but most people want to know alittle history about the property they are looking to buy. One of the first questions to ask is why the vendor is selling their home. This isn't about being nosey, as this information can be helpful when negotiating aprivate treaty sale.
Property: Well-located8.09hectares of farm land
Address: 207Donnelly Road,Kyneton
Price: $400,000 -$440,000
Agent: Raine &Horne Kyneton
Contact: Jennifer Pearce 0427422 508
You may worry about prying, but most people wanttoknowa little history aboutthe property they are looking to buy. One of the first questions to ask is why the vendorisselling theirhome. Thisisn't about being nosey, as this information can be helpful when negotiating aprivate treaty sale. It can give you insight into the seller's mindset andworkoutstrategywhen submitting your best offer. For example, if they have already bought anew houseand areinahurry to sell,theymay be more willingtoaccepta lower price. Perhapsthe property is beingsold duetoaninterstate transfer,adivorce, or the need to downsize.
It can give you insight into the seller's mindset and workout strategy when submitting your best offer. For example, if they have already bought anew house and are in ahurry to sell, they may be more willing to accept alower price. Perhaps the property is being sold due to an interstate transfer, adivorce, or the need to downsize.
Knowing the age of the property and any previous ownership changes can help you gauge its condition and stability. Ahomethat has been owned by the same vendor for years can be a positive sign, indicating apleasant living experience that you might also enjoy. It's also important to inquire about any incidents, such as fires or floods, that could have caused underlying damage.”
Knowing the age of the property and any previous ownership changes can help you gauge its condition and stability.Ahomethat has been owned by thesame vendor for years canbeapositive sign, indicating apleasant livingexperience that you might also enjoy. It's also important to inquire aboutany incidents, such as fires or floods, that could have caused underlying damage. Be sure to conduct your owndue diligence and arrange abuilding &pestinspection.
1268 Rochford Road,Newham
Ararehistorical cottageon5.49 acres with views andaseasonalcreek
Auction: This Saturday at 11.00am $900,000 -$990,000 Inspect: Saturday 10.30-11amorbyappointment
Character andcharm
Property: Elegant home moments from vibrant town centre
Address: 10BVictoria Street,Trentham
Price: $975,000 -$1,025,000
Agent: Jellis Craig
Contact: Leanne Pearman 0400 947799
TomMay 0413 996 185
Superbly located on agenerous 944m2 (approx.) corner block just moments from Trentham’svibrant town centre, this characterfilled weatherboard home offers an attractive low maintenance lifestyle coupled with the convenience of many of the region’smost highly regarded eateries and attractions on your doorstep. Relax on the inviting front verandah and enjoy views to Quarry Street Reserve located opposite. The stunning lake attracts local birds and wildlife and the gardens are abundant with seasonal colour Inside, beautifully proportioned rooms and elegant 3.3 metre ceilings evoke asense of grandeur,with period details including timber fretwork, picture rails, detailed cornicing and ceiling roses providing delightful finishing touches throughout. Neutral tones provide the perfect backdrop for these features to shine, with polished timber floors, coloured and leadlight windows contrasting beauti-
fully with modern light fixtures and white shutters. The three spacious bedrooms feature built-in storage and beautiful garden views, the main with an ensuite and awall of wardrobes. Comfort year round is assured with underfloor insulation, aslow combustion wood burner and Daikin split system, while three ornamental fireplaces deliver acharming touch.
Bifold doors separate the two large living areas, providing options for cosier spaces or an open flow while hosting gatherings. The light-filled country-style kitchen provides awonderful place to entertain, with large timber benchtops, 900mm freestanding cooker and Miele dishwasher making preparation and clean up abreeze. French doors spill out to aprivate north facing deck and garden, complete with fire pit area, shed with concrete floor and wood storage, and afully fenced veggie garden with chook house.
Belle Property Castlemaineand Maldon.
56 Karingal Park Drive, Barkers Creek
4a 2b 4v 7w
•Contemporary country retreat,set over 7 acres with breathtakingviews.
•Roads &services completed. Lots 22-53 Ireland Street, McKenzie Hill
Rob Waller |0418571 130
BlasiMulholland |0417 311 733 For sale $245,000 -$359,000 View By appointment
Belle PropertyCastlemaine |5470 5811
167 Barker Street, Castlemaine
Belle PropertyMaldon |5475 1055 30A MainStreet,Maldon
9Shilney Court, Campbells Creek
3a 2b 5v 724r
•Contemporary 3bedroom home in quiet locale.
•Modernkitchen with quality appliances& walk-in pantry.
•Low maintenance garden&double garage.
Rob Waller |0418571 130 Scott Rawlings |0409675 408 For sale $719,000 View Saturday 17th August 12:30pm-1:00pm
125 Castlemaine-Maldon Road, Muckleford
3a 1b 3v 4w
•3 bedroomcountry-style abode,set over 4 acres.
•Open-plan livingarea featuring wood fire & updated kitchen.
•Established fruit trees, carport& shed
Brett Tweed |0417 564 697
Rob Waller |0418571 130 For sale $800,000 View Saturday17thAugust 12:45pm-1:15pm
Edwardianelegance
The Hollies is abeautifully-restored Victorian-Edwardian double brick home positioned on acorner allotment, surrounded by landscaped gardens and northerly aspect in aquiet pocket near the Campaspe River
Built in 1898, The Hollies is afine example of the era, standing on bluestone foundations and featuring ahost of notable architectural and period details, including restored ablue slate shingle roof, clay chimney pots and finials, decorative plaster and pressed metal ceilings, high Edwardian skirting boards, cornices, architraves, stained glass windows and timber plantation shutters throughout.
As you approach the home you step onto apartial wrap-around timber verandah featuring decorative tessellated tiling. Once inside the grand entrance, you are immediately struck by the grandeur of the home, where soaring 3.5-metre ceilings merge effortlessly with abaltic pine floor hallway,setting the tone for the sophisticated elegance of the home.
To theright, aformal lounge room has an original period timber fireplace and stainedglass windows, typifying the elegance and craftsmanship that continues throughout the interior.Tothe left, alarge guest bedroom -ormaster -offersa cosy retreat with its own charming fireplace. Further along the hall is agrand dining room to entertain guests in a formal setting.
The Hollies also features an additional three generously-proportioned bedrooms, two in the second wing of the home, each maintaining the charm of apast era with their own period fireplaces and high pressed-metal ceilings. Twobeautifully-appointed bathrooms -one fully renovated in 2024 -provide modern luxury,complete with hydronic towel warmers and quality stone bench tops.
At the end of the 12-metre hallway sits the heart of the home -a beautifully-renovated kitchen and meals area. This is acook’sdream with new European appliances, alarge
brazilian stone island bench perfect for family gathering and informaldining, butler’s pantry,generous cellar and larder
The landscaped garden offers asereneescape with its mature plantings, huge centuryold cypress hedge, original wisteria and two rare, variegated weeping holly trees, adding to the thoughtful design.
The external spaces, including paved patio for outdoor dining plus the north-facing verandah, provide aperfect setting for entertaining or peaceful reflection, and highlight the architectural beauty of the home.
Dual instant hot water systems, oversized single garage with internal access, separate laundry with additional toilet anda powered 6x4 garden shed add to the home’s practicality
The Hollies represents an opportunity to secure amagnificent period home in the centre of Kyneton, offered for just the second time in over 60 years.
Property: Beautifully restored four bedroom, twobathroom home built in 1898
Address: 13 LangleyStreet Kyneton
Price: $2,300,000 -$2,400,000
Agent: RayWhiteKyneton
Contact: TamaraMactier 0429 136 635
Helen Jens 0404 834 926
4 B 2 C 2 F 21.75acres
View Saturday 17th August 1:00pm-1:30pm
ForSale $1,390,000 -$1,490,000 Web rh.com.au/kyneton
Inspect&Explore
2005 Kilmore-LancefieldRd, Lancefield
21.75Acres -Perfectfor HorseEnthusiastsThe Ideal Country Retreat
•Representing an amazing opportunity to purchasearural equestrian propertyoffering extensive established infrastructure. Ideally suited to horse enthusiasts and thoseseeking apeaceful andtranquil, rural lifestylewithin a stone’sthrow of the ever increasingly popular township of Lancefield.
Jason Woodford-Smith 0478 000 441 jason.woodford-smith@kyneton.rh.com.au
A 4 B 2 C 8 F 2.02ha
View By Appointment
ForSale $1,295,000 -$1,424,000 Web rh.com.au/kyneton
2Rogers Drive, Kyneton
Splendid Country Living -Just Minutes From Kyneton
•Situated closetolocal shops, schools, and recreational facilities as well, this country lifestylepropertyoffers allthe peaceful advantages of rural living with the convenienceoftown minutes away. Whether you’re looking to relaxinthe tranquil surroundings or explorethe vibrant community, this propertyoffers thebest of both worlds.
Jennifer Pearce 0427 422508 jennifer.pearce@kyneton.rh.com.au
A 6 B 3 F 6.88ha
View By Appointment
ForSale $2,300,000 -$2,500,000 Web rh.com.au/kyneton
Jennifer Pearce 0427 422508 jennifer.pearce@kyneton.rh.com.au
Kyneton 5422 2678 rh.com.au/kyneton
Inspect&Explore
27 Lavenders Lane, Kyneton
“WOODSIDE” 6.88 ha (approx)- Breathtaking setting
•Introducing Woodside, aremarkable piece of history nestledinthe heart of Kyneton. This stunning property, originally constructed in the mid-19th century by the esteemedWilliam Lavender,stands as atestament to architecturaland historical significanceinthe region.
Gisborne 5428 4007 rh.com.au/gisborne
Sunbury97446334 rh.com.au/sunbury
A 3 B 2 C 2
View Saturday 17th August 12:00pm-12:30pm
ForSale $700,000 -$770,000 Web rh.com.au/kyneton
DiggersRest87409666 rh.com.au/diggersrest
KenGrech 0418 509710 ken.grech@gisborne.rh.com.au
Inspect&Explore
21 Hurst Drive, New Gisborne
VENDOR HAS BOUGHT -Must Sell!
•Featuring three bedrooms, the master comes completewithawalk-inrobe and ensuite, whilethe other twobedrooms offer built-in robes forconvenience. The kitchen is astylish hub with stone benchtops, a900mm oven, modern appliances, amplestorage, and awalk-in pantry.
A
Offers qualified and professional solutions to all of your tree needs. Whether you’re looking for atree removal, tree pruningor stump grinding, or have concerns about storm and wind damage to your trees, we have you covered.
Chris Mackenzie, owner and head climber, is aCert3Qualified Arborist with over 15 yearsexperience completing high level complex climbing through his years as one of Melbourne’s top contract climbers. Chris brings technical skills and expert knowledge to each tree job completed. Located in the Macedon Ranges, and with areputation forefficient service and highly skilled work, Ascent Tree Solutions offers our happycustomers asafeand competent service.
ANGOVE HerbertNorman
03.07.1921 -06.08.2024
Husband, father, son and friend.
Thank youtostaff at Penhall for your loving care of Dad, and thanks Dr Richard Mayes foryour care and support. Miss youalready Dad. Carol
KN279637/L
Boldiston
Malcolm George (Mal) J.P
9.6.1943 -5.8.2024
Passed away at Bendigo Hospital. Darling and very much loved&cherished husband for 57½ years, soul mate and best friend for 61 years to Cherie Much lovedDad of Sue Bruton, Rich, Mikeand Simone, Nickand Greg. LovedGrampyof Mik, Mads,Zoe Lukeand Bella Bruton,Jackand Lucy Boldiston and Holly Boldiston. GreatGrand Popof Zander andBailee ‘I Do Too’
KN279638/L
-2.8.2024
ZILLIG - Henk
Sadly passed away on the 8.8.2024
Awonderful father gone to rest, forall of us he did his best. His love wasgreat, his heartwas kind, abetter father no onecould find. Loving father to Andrew, father in-lawtoJodie Opa to Kate,Laura and Montana. Great Opa to Noah, Mason, Caleb, Mabel and Flynn. Foreverfishing up high.
ZILLIG Funeral massfor the repose of the soul forthe late Hendrikus Cornelius ‘Henk’ Zillig will be offered at Our Lady of the Rosary, Catholic Church, 52 Ebden St, Kyneton on Friday(Aug16, 2024) at 10.30am. Aburial at the Kyneton Cemetery will
VOSPER Charles (Charlie)
Passed away peacefully in his 88th year at Bupa Kyneton, 5th August 2024. Second son of 12 childrento Florence and RobertVosper Brother of Bob (dec.), Tom(dec.), Violet (dec.), Dorothy, Ron (dec.), Stan (dec.), Bill (dec.), Beatrice,Fred (dec.), Richard and Florence Father-In-lawtoFrank and Honey, Veronica and Barry, Peter and Chris PoppytoMathewand Hannah, Rickand Hollie Rachael and Brendan, Dion and Rachel, Katrina and Justin.
Great PoptoHannah V, HarryCr, Ziggy V, Molly Cr,HarryCand Roman
The Rollercoaster has stopped forCharlie buta long adventurous lifewill alwaysbe remembered by those who shared it withhim. His storytelling legendary, his passion for his twelvestring Guitar secondonly to the love and pride of his family He wasa rail worker,farmer,jackofall trades and (as he would say) master of none. Reunited with his much lovedfamily gone before him. Cheers Charlie
LOUGHNANE Harold
Passed away 14th August 2020
Ihide my tears when Isay your name But thepain in my heartisstill the same. Though Ismile and seem carefree
There’sno one who misses youmore than me
Love always Mary xx
When the nights are long and lonely and the
Family and friends are invited to attend the funeral service for Mr HerbertAngove, to be held in the Chapel of Mount Alexander Funerals, 12 Campbell Street, Castlemaine on Friday16thAugust at 2.00pm. Aprivate cremation will follow.
Newspaper media reaches 93% of Australians every month
Much lovedmother of Erin and Liam and grandmotherof Jet and May. Rest in Peace. 15 million Australians read a newspaper every month
ZILLIG Hendrikus Cornelius ‘Henk’ 30.10.1936 –8.8.2024
KN279662/L
Passed away at Latrobe Hospital, Traralgon. Belovedhusband of Jannie for68years Lovedfather of Andrew, Michael (dec), Henk Jnr andtheir families. Sadly missed and not forgotten KN279648/J
Passed away suddenly aged 59 years. Dearly lovedson of Elaine and Graham (dec.) Williams Lovedbrother of Michael and Simone, brother in lawtoJan, Uncle to Kristy, Chelsea, Abbey, Stephanieand Benjamin. So dearly lovedson and sadly missed. Iwill miss the big hugs as soon as youwalk in the door Foreverwith Dad -Mum. Youfitted so much into your life and neverlet anything stop you. Our hearts broken, our eyesfull of tears, our words speechless Ric (Fred Bear) My big brother,protector,now angel. Youare braver than youbelieve Stronger than youseem Smarter than youthink. But most important thing is, even if we are apart, I’ll always be with you. Love yousomuchFred. Miss youmore -Sim (Bub)
KN279653/J
The Position The Practice Manager role would oversee both the daily and broader management aspects of the practice,coveringvarious businessand patient care responsibilities.The role would be expected to commence in late December,with an additional 2 months of training or shadowing offered before-hand if required
About You
You’ll have an eager,forward-looking energy to help driveanestablished business towards more modern, streamlined, efficient processes.You’ll possess a positiveand caring outlook, finding fulfilment in contributing to acompassionate,values-driven business.You would have an established tool-kit of skills to serve the broad tasks involved in your role, and you’dbeprepared to takeonadditionaltraining to meet theneeds of the practice.Itwould be highly desirable thatyou have experience as aPractice Manager in aGPclinic,haveexperience with RACGP accreditation and have worked with Best Practice software Email: manager@mostynstreetclinic.com.au with your CV or forfurther information
Kyneton hosts Wear It Purple
In celebration and recognition of their rainbow players and LGBTIQA+ families, the Kyneton District Soccer Club is excited to host its first ‘Wear it Purple’ event on Saturday August 17 at its homeground, Barkly Square.
KDSC president, Ron Cole said this was atime to extend their welcome to all players and especially to the rainbow youth to let them know that the club supports them to be the best soccer player,coach,referee, or supporter they can be.
The club will be decorating their canteen in purple, and setting up a cake stall, with some purple headbands and other merchandise, for donation sale. They invite the community to come by to help celebrate with them and enjoy some delicious homemade cupcakes.
The Wear it Purple organisation was founded by young people who, after hearing of increased cases of youth taking their own lives because of bullying and harassment for being who they were, wanted to let the rainbow youth know there were people out there who loved and accepted them.
Kyneton District Soccer Club is an organisation that has also taken up the mantle to be apart of that growing support of young players and families.
"It is important to the club that as many kids as possible feel welcome and supported in their soccer journey, and we look forward to the community'ssupport too," Cole said.
'Your Passion, Your Pride' is the 2024 theme for Wear it Purple, which seeks to help lift rainbow youth to be proud of who they are.
Throws find thesix-yardbox
Kyneton'sRangers women'steams played away this weekend leaving their Barkly Square to rest.
The women'sDiv 1team met top ranking Spring Gully in what the Rangers knew would be atough match. Regardless of the round'sbook-end battle, the Rangers brought their heart and soul to the game.
Isha Kuyateh slipped on the Number 1stripasshe fended offasmanyballs as she could from the firing Gully forwards. In Kyneton'sbackline, hard at it were Sienna Scott (having one of biggest throw-ins in the competition, easily sending balls into the six-yard box), captain Bec Cole, AvaColeman and Maddie Hacche.
Reaching out across the centreline were Remy McTaggart, Lenka Thompson, Emma Tricarico and Zara Hooppell who had the task of running the full length of the pitch to help the forward and backline.
Finishing with the Rangers strikers, Sian Hooppell (1 goal), Bronte Randle, and Lorelei Cook rising like aphoenix to her old position, showed unrelenting pressure when aball found their feet. Spring Gully saw amighty victory over Kyneton 8-1 at the fall of the flags.
The women'sDiv 2had aquality game against their neighbours Castlemaine at Chewton's pitch.
Jo Mitchell put on the gloves for the first half for Kyneton and then Bec Cole (1 goal) stepped up in the second half, showing her versatility.Supporting the keepers in the defense were the ever-present Kim 'Dicko' Dickins, Bec Cole, Lucy 'OG' Campbell, and Em Gloyns who kept the opposition'sballs at bay Keeping the midfield solid were the stalwarts Simone Hooppell and Isha Kuyateh who sent balls to the wingers Miranda Minson and Ivy Morris-Perrott, who then sent balls up to the waiting forwards in Sian Hooppell (1 goal), Molly Wilding, and Samara Gelbart. With two yellow cards being dished out to Castlemaine, the Rangers had another feisty game on its hand and Castlemaine went home with aclose win 3-2 with Kyneton really stepping up in the second half.
Kyneton men came back with the Seniors win 3-0 to Moreland United, and Reserves draw 1-1 to PEGS Soccer Club.
Lucy ‘OG’ Campbell, astrongdefender for the Kyneton Rangers women’s team.
Photo: Angela Crawford
Club of theYear
Congratulations to Mt Macedon Golf Club for being named as Dalhousie Golf Association'sClub of the Year,for the innovative Ladies Get Into Golf @MMGC program. The award was announced at the weekend.
Agroup of riders from Kyneton Pony Club competed at the Bullengarook Showjumping Day on Sunday Kiara Vallance was first in the Pony Club BGrade2phase, second in the Pony Club BGrade 2Round and finished as Reserve Champion on her offthe track thoroughbred Symphonico.
Meanwhile Claire Barron was third in the Open EGrade 2Phase, third in the Open EGrade 2Round, and finished as Reserve Champion on King Reno at her first-ever competition. Claire and Reno had three clear showjumping rounds and took home several ribbons along with abag of horse feed. Kyneton Pony Club thanks Bullengarook Pony Club for hosting such afantastic event.
CASTLEMAINE
Aftera thrilling three-way tie formost of the time, Alister Campbellseized the initiative late in Saturday'sstablefordto card40points.
Fellow B-grader Wayne Toohey (18) was overall runner-up on 39 after atight countback against BillyBurgess and Jen Dyer
Matthew O'Brien(4) took out A-grade with 37 points, on acountback from Harvey Zepnick.
NTPs wenttoBurgess and Peter Stemp.
MartyBeck (6) includedthree birdies in his 37 points to return to thepodium on Thursday,securing the overall and A-grade awards.
In B-grade, Kors VanEyk posted 36 points to finish one clearofIan Clark (27).
VanEyk andHarald Domanski were the NTP winners.
GISBORNE
Mark Belcherhad an absolute belter on Saturday,winningA-grade with42 stablefordpoints.
His neighbour,JesseRamsey, topped B-grade with 41 points, and David Henderson ledinthe 'Bandits' with 42
St Bridgit's principal, Mel Daily,taught everyonealesson by taking outthe women'ssectionwith 37 points.
On Wednesday,30women enjoyed a spectacular winter's day on the course with abright blue skyand sunshine to compete in athree-person Ambrose.
Team Ralph, comprisingWendy Ralph, Maryanne Mocnik andRobert Henty,won by apoint fromthe trioof Adrienne Fiever,Leanne Delavay,and Linda Lanham.
Congratulations to scratch golfer Steve Veloso on scoringhis firstholein-one. The perfect shot came on the challenging190-metre12th hole.
KYNETON
The second round of the 54-hole James Rennick Trophy eventwas played on Saturday
Glen Cook returned the day'sbest score of 77-10-67 to take out A-grade fromTim KIrk 77-9-68, with David Austin the B-grade winner with 89-18-71 on a countback from Paul Tobin87-16-71.
QuinnKinnell94-26-68 topped Bgrade ahead of David McKelvie 100-3070.
NTPs wenttoRoss Foreman, Noel Alldis, Jason McClure,Braeden Cottingham and Cook(alsosuper pin).
Wednesday stableford: John Watts (29) excelled with 44 points, from Gordon Stevens (19) with 40. Ladies –Rachael McAndrews (31)with37points.
ValmaSmoors was the women'sAugust medal winner with 108-38-70 from Joan Gibbs98-24-74 lastTuesday.
Marg Scoble won the play-offfor the July medal, with Bron Dwyer and Deb Kohlman the NTPs.
Vicki Nettleton was theGAKyneton silver spoon winner after the final round, and will represent in the state final at Gardiners Run GC.
LANCEFIELD
Good weather equals goodfields, and Denis Davenport (6)continued his goodformtoclinchSaturday'sstableford with 35 points on acountback from Todd Lambert (5).
Dean Budde (19) edged out Lachlan Cleeland (24) in the third place countback.
Medal Day for the ladies on Wednesday tested the field,withwinner Jenni Vennell scoring103-28-75 to finish well clear of Carole Mee 115-33-82 andDi Rhode 114-31-83.
Town &District
GOLF results
Hazel Laycockhad the least putts (29).
Legends: Davenport78-7-71 fromEd Godek 88-16-72and Mark Balla91-1873.
Thursday stableford:John Leefe (15) 37 points, from Kevin McBride (23)35, and Davenport (6) 33.
ROMSEY
Despite generally good conditions it proved more than challengingtoproduce agood scoreinSaturday's stableford event.
The eventual winner with Keith Hocking(27) with 32 points,ascore which normally is notincontentionat theend of 18 holes.
Andrew Clement(12) was runner-up on 31, with Scott Williams(15) thirdafter acountback.
Clement, Mitch Atlas and Dean Kohler claimed NTPs.
Semi-finals of the W.E. TonShield event appearedtobeone-sided on paper,but as golfers know,the golf gods often frown on those who take things for granted.
The low markers proved they could handle conditionsbetter
Mal Mottram (0)– Dean Kohler (11) defeated John Freestone (20) –Andrew Laing (11) 7/5, andDylan Harris (0) –Simon Donovan (2) accounted for Shaun (17) and ZacScales (28) 3/2.
Good luck to thefinalists in thisprestigious event.
KevinDunn had93-22-71 in last Wednesday'sstroke event, to finish four strokes clear of the field.
DavidJones 94-19-75 took second place on acountback from Steve Wilkins 90-15-75,with Wilkins and Dunn the NTP winners.
TRENTHAM
For achange, Saturday resembled a spring day and Robin Wilson (3) appreciated the conditions to be the overalland A-grade winner with 40 points.
DavidMika (13) shone in B-grade with 38 in B-grade, andAdrianSisk led in the C-graderswith 37.
Gary Middleton, Keith Webster and Marcus Height were the runners-up across the grades
Kath Keating is on fire at present, and chalked up 41 points in the women's event for overalland B-gradehonours, seven clear of JulieHanson.
Alison Borchers was the best A-grader with35, from Caroline Johnston 34 WOODEND
Acontingent of Woodend Golf Club members have beenenjoying themselves trying out someIndonesian courses –doubtifthey setany new courserecords.
Saturday'sstablefordevent was conducted in idealconditions,with the course in toporder.
Overalland B-grade winner was James Townsend (20) with 37 points, fromNed O'Connor (16) with 35.
SteveRoberts(3) tookout A-grade with 36 points, oneclear of Kenny Turley (5).
Last Tuesday'sstableford winner was Ronnie Jackson with 37 points, twoclear of Rod Kane. Maurie Kellyclaimedboth NTPs.
With favourable weather conditions, carts are expected to be back in use shortly
And just for the record, New Zealand golfstarLydia Ko won theParis Olympics women'sgolf gold medalbytwo strokes at the weekend to addtoher previous bronze andsilver –a remarkable record, and one that finally earnedher a place in the LPGA Hall of Fame.
Claire Barron with King Reno
Seniors
GOALS: Strathfieldsaye:C Jones 4R Wilson 3HBehrens 2 MGordon2JChambers CSheahan BStevens.Gisborne: PMcKenna3SClough 2JGray2MBarake DJohnstone
Campbells Creek welcomed Navarre for round 17 of the Maryborough Castlemaine District Football Netball League competition last Saturday
Creek started brightly getting an early goal on the board but the Grasshoppers soon settled and kicked five of their own to hold ahandy 28-point lead at the first change.
The Magpies continued to battle hard in the second and were rewarded with another goal for their endeavours and managed to hold the visitors to just two for the term to trail by 36 points at half-time.
Creek lifted their intensity in the third and slammed through another three goals but Navarre also stepped up a gear smashing on another seven goals to blow their lead out to 60 points at the final change.
It was all one-way traffic in the last quarter as the Grasshoppers piled on another four goals and held Creek to four points to win the clash by 81 points.
Best for Campbells Creek were Nicholas O'Brien and Dylan Stevens.
The Harcourt Lions recorded a33-point win over Lexton in alow-scoring battle.
The Lions opened the first quarter with athree-goal haul, with the Tigers kicking two to trail by eight points at quartertime.
The Tigers kept pace with the Lions in the second with both sides only managing agoal each and there were just nine points in it at half time.
Harcourt won the third term kicking two goals to one and found something extra in the last stanza to kick three goals and hold the Tigers scoreless to grab another important win as finals loom. Jed Rodda kicked 3for the Lions. Other standouts were Mark Noonan and Alex Code.
The second-placed Lions will face areal test this weekend when they face offagainst top-of-the-table Natte Bealiba. Newstead were on fire playing some of their best footy of the year to record ablistering 122-point win over the Maryborough Giants at Hedges Oval.
The Giants held their own against the Roos in the opening term kicking five goals to the Steaders six to trail by only five points at quarter-time.
But Newstead slammed on another six goals in the second term while holding ashellshocked Giants to just one point. At half-time the Roos lead by 34 points.
Maryborough managed to snag another goal in the third but Newstead were just too classy kicking another seven goals to extend their lead to 82 points at the final change.
The Giants never gave up and kicked another three in the final term but Newstead were simply too strong and kicked a whopping 10 goals to put the result beyond doubt.
Newstead had multiple goal kickers but Michael Runciman seven and Tyler James six once again stood up for the Roos.
Maldon had atough day on the road going down to top side Natte Bealiba by 59 points.
Natte opened their account with afour-goal haul in the first
term and held the Dons to 1.3.
The Swans continued to dominate in the second term kicking six goals to four points and led by 51 points at half-time.
Maldon held Natte to just three goals in the third term but could not convert their own opportunities only managing a point and by the final change the margin at blown out to 76 points.
To their credit Maldon lifted in the last quarter and kicked five goals to Natte'stwo to win the term and narrow the margin to 59 points at the final siren.
Seb Greene and Noah Thompson were among the best for the Dons.
Third-placed Trentham had ashock loss at the hands of Carisbrook.
The Redbacks got the jump on the Saints in the opening stanza kicking four goals to one and led by four points at quarter-time.
Carisbrook went into overdrive in the second term banging through another six goals to the Saints' three to lead by 21 points at the long break.
Trentham lifted in the third and kicked three goals while keeping the Redbacks to oneto come within 10 points at the last change.
The final term was arealarm wrestle as each side at-
tempted to block the others avenues to goal. Each managed to peg one goal apiece but in the end the Redbacks had done enough andran out winners by 12points. Best for the Saints was JakeKeoghwith three and Joel Dovaston. Despite the loss,Trenthamremains in third spot with one round togo.
In the final match ofthe day, Dunolly recorded a62-point win over Talbot. Avoca had the bye.
Netball
On the netball court, Campbells Creek AGrade 37 lost to Navarre 69. Best for the Magpies was Lillie Wrigley with 32 goals. Harcourt 32 went down to Lexton 68. Best for Harcourt was TeganMcKay. Maryborough Giants 62 defeated Newstead 46. Best for Newstead wasBrianna Jury.Natte Bealiba 62 accounted for Maldon 37. Best for Maldon was Katelyn Cutlack with 20 goals. Trentham 32 lost to Carisbrook 52. Best for the Saints was Jacqui Bell with 25 goals. Dunolly 36 wentdown to Talbot 53.
This weekend
In this weekend'sfinal round 18 matches, Navarre hosts Avoca, Newstead welcomes Campbells Creek, Dunolly tackles Lexton, Maldon takes on Trentham, Talbot plays Maryborough Giants and Harcourt faces Natte Bealiba. Carisbrook has the bye.
The Campbells Creek side were valiant against the Grasshoppers. Photo: Max Lesser
Campbells Creek’s Dylan Stevens leaps for amark. Photo: Max Lesser
Magpies soar over Roos
Abumper crowd turned out at the Camp Reserve on Saturday to catch former Saints legend and 287game AFL player Leigh Montagna lace up the boots for Castlemaine against Kangaroo Flat.
The appearance was the final instalment of the '2024 The Carlton Draft' series, which sees AFL legends come out of retirement to support grassroots footy and give back to struggling clubs, with six big names playing one-offgames for Victorian clubs.
Montagna was delighted to have his family in attendance and ran through The CarltonDraft banner with his kids before the game.
The Magpies went into the clash fresh from the bye and having claimed two big scalps in fifth-placed Eaglehawk and third-placed Strathfieldsaye in their previous two rounds.
Castlemaine had defeated Kangaroo Flat in round seven to the tune of 33 points and were determined to nab three wins on the trot, while Flat were looking to bounce back.
Montagna'sappearance was unfortunately cut short minutes into the game when he suffered a quad injury,but this did nothing to deter the Magpies as they slammed on six goals to Flat'sthree in the opening term and held a21-point lead at quartertime. KalHuntly was on firekicking three.
With Montagna offering encouragement from the sidelines, Castlemaine continued to work hard in the second term booting another six goals and holding the Roos to4.2 to extend their lead to 35points at half-time.
After the spell, the Magpies continued the onslaught bagging another six goals and locking Flat down with the visitors only managing asingle point for the term. At the finalchange the margin had blown out to 70 points.
To their credit, Flat lifted in the final term and managed to peg acouple of goals through, but the Magpies came home full of running kicking another five goals to win the match by 89 points.
Michael Hartley was once again superb kicking seven, while Huntly ended up with five. Bradley Keogh also had his eye in kicking three. TheMagpies sit in sixth spot just trailing Eaglehawk on percentage and are eyeing aspot in the finals.
Castlemaine was also well served by Bailey Henderson, Zavier Murley and Lloyd Butcher
The Magpie Reserves had achallenging day After being scoreless in the opening term, the side managed to bounced back kicking seven goals to the Roo'snine but eventually went down by 18 points.
Klai Jermyn stood up for the Magpies kicking two and other top contributors were Ben Moran and Ethan Hein.
The Under 18 boys recorded their eighth win of the year defeating Kangaroo Flat by seven points in anail biter.Flat held aslender lead at the end of the first term and had extended that to three points at half-time. But Castlemaine never bowed their heads and continued to fight hard at the contests to nab a well-deserved win. Best for the Magpies were Archie Rixon and Curtis McLennan. The side are now sitting in fourth spot on the ladder
Women's Football
TheCastlemaine Magpie Women'sfootball team kicked offthe weekend with amassive 101-point win over Marong at the Camp Reserve on Friday night. Eloise Gretgrix led the way with aseven-goal haul and Tiffany Bradley chipped in three.
The Under 18 Girls made the trek to Wade Street on Sunday to clash with Golden Square andfound themselves up against atough opponent going down by 78 points. Best for the Magpies were Miharo WiHare and Amelia Britt.
Netball
On the netball court the Magpies 17 &Under side kicked offthe day with aterrific win over Flat 58-26.
BReserve had atougher time going down 25-54.
BGrade gave their all in aclosebattle but went down by just10goals 37-47.
AReserve 37 went down to adominant opponent in Flat 68.
AGrade also struggled against apolished Flat losing 17-115 despite avaliant effort.
This weekend the Castlemaine Magpie sides will head south to take on Gisborne. In the final round of the AFL Central Viccompetition, the Magpie Women and the Under 18 Girls will hit the road to face White Hills.
Former Saint Leigh Montagna runs through the banner with his kids. Photo: Peter Banko
Leigh Montagna leaps for amark moments before he was sidelined with an injury. Photo: Peter Banko
The Magpie netballers had achallenging day on the court only netting one win. Photo: Max Lesser
TomWaterstoretire
For almost two decades, TomWaters has been recognised as one of the preeminent ruckmen across the Riddell and Bendigo football leagues.
This Saturday,Waters will retire after playing his 300th career game in the Lancefield versus Riddell match at Tigerland.
Waters reads the game to perfection. Agiant leap, clever tap work and ajustified reputation for fair play and sportsmanship are hallmarks. He'salso proved he can carry injuries and still perform.
Lancefield Football Netball Club rates the dual Bowen Medal winner as one of the Tigers' all-time greats, even though his 100th game with the club was last Saturday at Wallan.
What will he miss about not playing football anymore?
"I'm going to miss it all Ijustlove playing footy," he said.
Future plans?
"Since Iwas 14, footy has been a12-months-a-year activity for me. My whole life has always worked around footy
"I'm looking forward to not having to organise things around footy for once to spend some more time with the kids will be great.
"They've missed out on alot of time with me with all the hours Iput into footy
"One day I'll probably get back into coaching but for now I'm looking forward to doing nothing," he said.
Waters shot to fame when he became the secondyoungest ever player to win the Bowen Medal, taking it out with 25 votes in 2008.
The youngest was Lancefield star Bern 'Herb' Shannon, who polled19 votesto tie with Trentham'sJack Hiscock in 1959.
Waters' second Bowen came in 2010; his two premiership medals came at Lancefield in 2009 and at Macedon in 2017 after he had been an outstanding player with Gisborne for several years.
He returned to Lancefield in 2020 as captain-coach only to run into the first COVID interrupted season.
Enjoyable times as ajunior player date back to the Bulleen Templestowe Bullants and the Oakleigh Chargers –heplayed two years of Under 18s in the TACCup.
Watersplayed his first senior game with Bulleen Templestowe and spent the whole match as aruckman.
What about his first Bowen Medal? One thing he recalls is Trav Smith standing on achair and yelling for him to go on stage as he culn't lose with three rounds of counting to go. In 2010 it was not asurprise, as he felt he had been dominant in anumber of games; he won the Bowen, the goal umpires Playerofthe Year and the coachees Player of the Year awards.
Waterssaid the 2009 premiership was great, as the Tigers beat arch-rival Romsey who had Gary Moorcroft (ex-Essendon) in the lineup.
"It was afairly hot day and we pegged back Romsey's early lead bit by bit. Iremember their ruckman was starting to cramp up in the third quarter and Ijust ran past and yelled "I'm just starting to warm up!"
"As ateam we all played out part, and they imploded and stopped."
The long-awaited Macedon premiership was abit different, as he went to the Cats on atwo-year deal and in the second season they were favourites.
"Weknew what we had to do and went out and executed.
"When the siren went and the ball was in my hands and Ithrew it in the air to celebrate. Iwish now I'd thrown it
under my jumper and kept it."
"It had been such along time since they had won aflag and it was great to be part of breaking that drought."
MAJOR INFLUENCES
Waterssaid his father was abig influence on his footy career,having played with Hawthorn Thirds.
"If Ievermade the final cut of arep team he would always say 'That'sjust one person'sopinion'.
"It was agood way to keep me grounded if Ihad made it or pick me up if Ihadn't."
Kevin Fitzgerald (Lancefield coach) was another big influence after he won his first Bowen.
"Other teams were chasing me and telling me how good Iwas was, trying to get me to come and play for them.
"Fitzy turned me saying 'Yeah, you had agood year But if you stay here at Lancefield Ican help make you better.'
"That was what made me stay.Hewasn't satisfied with how good you were. He wanted to make you better."
Who was the best opponent he played against?
"I've been lucky to play against alot of great players at interleague and VicCountry level, but even at local level
Idon't think you could find anyone more respected than Luke Saunders at Gisborne.
"I've never seen someone attack the footy like he did. He was as tough as nails and when he spoke you wanted to run through abrick wall."
"The most talented Iever played with though, was Matt Dick at Macedon. He flies under the radar but week in, week out, Isaw him work harder than anyone.
"One second he'srunning back with the flight to defend against abigger opponent, the next he'skicking goals from inside the centre square."
Waters rates former AFL star Darryl White as the best he has played against, when he (Waters) played in Darwin for Nightcliff.
"He could jump like no other.He even played one game against me in runners because his feet hurt from the indigenous all-star game two days before.
"His smarts and knowledge of the game were also second to none."
Well played, TomWaters! LFNC anticipate avery large crowdisexpected to turn upat Lancefield Park on Saturday to pay tribute and wish him well.
Shockdefeat forGisborne
The euphoria surrounding Gisborne senior footballers leaping into top spot on the Bendigo League ladder lasted for precisely one week.
The Bulldogs were overjoyed when ladder leader Sandhurst was upset by Golden Square on August 3.
This put Gisborne on top, awin ahead of the Dragons, with just three home and away rounds left.
Win the final three home and away matches, and finish on top –that'sthe task which confronted Gisborne.
So it was offtoplay third-placed Strathfieldsaye Storm on Saturday,with most keen Bendigo League followers anticipating aGisborne victory
This was largely based on the 28 points
margin when the two sides met at Gisborne in round seven, as well as the Bulldogs long winning streak.
The Storm came out fired up, intent on hanging on to third place.
After an even first quarter the home side gradually got on top, confidence rising with aleadof17points at half time.
Five goals to three in the third term put Gisborne right under the pump, and the home side went on to avery important 14.8 to 10.9 victory
Being restricted to 10 goals was out of character for Gisborne this season, and it means Sandhurst is the beneficiary,back on top of the ladder
Macklan Lord, Flynn Lakey,Matthew Merrett, Jake Normington, Pat McKenna
and Braidon Blake were listed as the Bulldogs' best.
The Storm is now areal chance to hold on to the double chance, and meet Gisborne in the qualifying final on the Queen Elizabeth Oval.
In th Reserves, Gisborne had no trouble in securing a12.11to1.4 victory to remain on top ofSandhurst on percentage.
Gisborne Under 18s, third on the ladder, were surprised by the sixth-placed Storm, with the final scores 9.4 to 6.10. NETBALL ROUND-UP
Gisborne A-grade netballers outgunned Strathfieldsaye 65-26 on Saturday,but still trail the leaders Kangaroo Flat onpercentage.
Kangaroo Flat scored amassive per-
centage boosting 115to17 winover bottom side Castlemaine.
Current ladder: Kangaroo Flat 44 points (218.32%), Gisborne 44 (187.92), Sandhurst 40, Strathfieldsaye 24, Eaglehawk 24, Golden Square 12, South Bendigo 8, Castlemaine 4.
Final five positions in the Riddell League'sAgrade netball competition are all wrapped up.
The outcomes of this Saturday'sfinal home and away round matches cannot change who plays who in the qualifying and elimination finals on Saturday,August 24.
Virtually all positions in the lower grades are also settled, with this Saturday'sgames being largely academic in regard to where teams finish on the respective ladders.
The strong Woodend-Hesket and Riddell clubs have their five teams gearing up to play finals, and looking for possible multiple premierships.
Reigning premiers Woodend-Hesket now has avery settled, interchangeable A-grade lineup, with Riddell looming as the main challenger to the Hawks.
Up to 2023, Woodend-Hesket had never won an A-grade flag, but the Hawks' culture is such that arepeat is astrong possibility for the side coached by outstanding defender Ty Coppinger
Sixth-placed Romsey won easily on against wooden spooner Diggers Rest, but Melton Centrals (fifth) accounted for abelow full strength Macedon 59-45 to clinch the first A-grade finals spot for the club for quite some years.
Romsey'sHope Hamilton shot 51 goals in her 402nd game to be the highest individual scorer
Centrals have an abundance of talented players, and could yet prove to be asurprise packet in the finals.
Macedon Cats and Kyneton Tigers will contest the Riddell League Rookie Me women'sfootball grand final at Gilbert Gordon Oval, Woodend, on Saturday afternoon. It'sno surprise to see the two best sides in the home and away season in the big match.
While Macedon reached the grand final with aconvincing 6.4 to 1.3 victory over Kyneton, the Tigers expect to field their strongest side for the season.
and dynamic players.
The Tigers controlled the first half to lead 6.2 to 0.3 by half-time.
Kyneton won the inaugural women'spremiership last season, beating Macedon, but the Cats have much more depth this time and are eagerly looking forward to the big match.
At Kyneton Showgrounds, the Tigers proved too strong for WoodendHesket in the preliminary final on a sunny Saturday afternoon.
Coach Phil Hawkes was pleased with the overall performance across the whole game.
He said the addition of youth girls' players Ella Jeffrey,Jorja Bennett and Jazz Short was beneficial.
"They are such great footballers and really helped lift the team to another level," he said.
Teagan Ainslie and Nat Korinfsky powered the midfield, and defenders White, Love and Blume were exceptional. In containing the Haawks' fast
The Hawks lifted in the third quarter to score two goals, but Kyneton took control again in the final term.
The Tigers sang their song with gusto, knowing theyare stillunderdogs against the Cats.
Hawkes said his teamwas "up for the challenge" and would throw everything they had at the Cats to try to secure their second premiership in arow.Macedon have some match winners, including leading goalkicker Chalotte Noonan, who kicked five goals in the qualifying final.
Goals: E. Jeffrey,L.Roberts, G. Williams 2, E. Blume, J. Bennett. Best –Jeffrey,T.Ainslie, S. White, Blume, N. Korinfsky,J.Short. Goals and best (W/H) –not supplied.
Kyneton’s Ella Jeffrey boots away against Woodend-Hesket at the Kyneton Showgrounds on Saturday.
Photo:RheaFavero
Hawkshalt Kyneton
Kyneton senior footballers debuted in the Riddell League on March 29 this season by outclassing Woodend-Hesket by 53 points.
Weather conditions were ideal for football, appreciated by players and spectators alike.
At Gilbert Gordon Oval on Saturday the Hawks gained revenge, defeating the Tigers by 15 points and ending their slim hopes of making the finals.
For Woodend-Hesket, it was agood way to end a season (they have the bye this Saturday), which did not live up to expectations after being runners-up in 2023. For the Tigers it was another chapter in alearning experience about what can occur in adifferent league.
There'snodoubt astring of injuries depleted Kyneton often enough to make the difference between winning and losing on occasions –including Saturday Kyneton coach Ethan Foreman and the selectors/ match committee are likely to find positives about the debut season in the RDFNL, and plan ahead for 2025.
Hawks' coach Al Rae was pleased with his side'sresilience, which finally led to avictory to cap offthe season.
The Hawks controlled play in the first half, but Kyneton
fought back in the third quarter to cut the deficit.
The Tigers actually hit the front early in the final term before the Hawks rallied with decisive goals for a11.7 (73) to 9.4 (58).
Once again prolific possession gatherer and 2023 Bowen Medal winner Dan Toman shone for the Hawks, along with Will Wiseman (three goals), Campbell Barton and Dean Bramley
Kyneton'sbest were Francis Randall, Josh Willmott, Josh Smith and Angus Nolte.
TOP FIVE SETTLED
The final five is settled, as Romsey slipped to fourth place after being overwhelmed by arevitalised Diggers Rest, 12.10 (82) to 6.8(44).
The Redbacks had no answer to the mercurial Mitch Jensen, who chimed in with six goals.
Romsey struggled to find goals for the first three quarters, and last season'spremiers go into atough qualifying final against Wallan.
Ultra-consistent Nathan Blair,Jack Jedwab and speedster Callum Sankey were listed the the Redbacks' top three.
By losing, Romsey will play Macedon in the elimination final with coach Justin Sherman conceding missing the
double chance is asetback.
Macedon play Romsey this Saturday at Tony Clarke Reserve in the final home and away round, then the two sides clash again at Diggers Rest in the elimination final.
The Cats had to work hard to wrap up afinals berth with a10.8 (68) to Melton Centrals 8.5 (53).
Hamish Govan, Matthew Dickand Dylan McDonald were in good form.
Macedon match-winner Jason Cooke hasbeen sidelined with aleg injury,and if he returns for the finals it would lift the side.
The Cats have beenfielding ateam with almost half the players being teenagers –agreat effort with the future in mind.
Bottom side Lancefield stunned flag contenders Wallan by taking the game right upto the Magpies, with the difference just three points at half time.
In the second half class prevailed, with the final margin 14.16 (100) to 7.11(53).
Ladder leader and flag favouriteRiddell had the bye, and play Lancefield this Saturday Finals participants will have the option of resting key players or those carrying injuries this Saturday
Searching forheadcoach to develop netball
Kyneton Football Netball Club is currently seeking passionate and dedicated individuals to take on coaching roles for the 2025 senior netball season in the RDFNL.
The head coach will be responsible for leading and developing the club'snetball program, including coaching players, developing training programs, and overseeing game day strategies. They will also work closely with the club'snetball director to support the growth and success of the program at the club.
"Weneed ahead coach who is committed to bringing apositive and inclusive team culture and has astrong understanding of netball and the workings of acommunity club," netball director Loryn Savoia said.
With construction of the new netball facilities (change rooms, pavilion, and two new courts) aiming to begin in late 2024, the club in conjunction with MRSC are ensuring the infrastructure will assist in supporting the growth of netball in Kyneton.
The club is looking for individuals who want the opportunity to use their netball experience and knowledge to align with the club values of respect, teamwork, discipline, integrity, and fun. Coaching positions available include A, B, C, Dgrade and Under 19s.
Applicants should hold acurrent coaching accreditation alongside experience coaching netball at acompetitive level.
"Wewant someone who is enthusiastic, driven and reach their potential.”
If you want to be involved with Kyneton’sbright future in the RDFNL, please send applications in writing with coaching experience and accreditations by COB August 21 to kfnc.netball@gmail.com
Bill West
Remarkable season: Woodend-Hesket’s Dan Toman about to pass to ateam-mate against Kyneton. He must be astrong chance to take out another Bowen Medal.
Breakaway: Woodend-Hesket’s Dean Bramley escapes from the desperate clutches of Kyneton’s Alex Mahoney at Gilbert Gordon Oval.
A 4 B 2 C 2 F 560m2
View Saturday 17th August
1:15pm-1:45pm
ForSale $790,000 -$850,000 Web rh.com.au/kyneton
15 Amber Rise, Kyneton
Modern Elegance
•Anexciting opportunitytoown this stunning familyhome perfectlylocated in the heart of the vibrant Riverside Estate, Kyneton. This modern country four bedroom, twobathroom home offers you everything you coulddesirefor your family’scomfort and enjoyment.
Jennifer Pearce 0427 422508 jennifer.pearce@kyneton.rh.com.au
A 4 B 3 C 2 F 1218m2
View Thursday 15th August 4:00pm-4:30pm
Auction Saturday 31st August 11:00am
Web rh.com.au/kyneton
KenGrech 0418 509710 ken.grech@gisborne.rh.com.au
11 Manassa Drive, Gisborne
SOMETHING SPECIAL
•This exquisitehome features four generous bedrooms, main with ensuite, plus astudy,perfectfor agrowing family or thosewho need adedicated workspace. With twowell-appointed bathrooms, an open-plan kitchen and meals area, and adoublegarage, this propertyisdesigned with comfort in mind
A 5 B 2 C 6 F 19.13ha
View Saturday 17th August 12:00pm-12:30pm
ForSale $1,100,000 -$1,200,000 Web rh.com.au/kyneton
•This 4or5bedroom home is of brick construction on aconcreteslab. The large picturewindows aredouble-glazed, the walls and 10 foot ceilings areinsulated. Allrooms have ceiling fans and have reversecycleair-conditioning. Thereisan abundanceofnatural light and excellent viewsfromall rooms. Watertanks&Bore
Gisborne 5428 4007 rh.com.au/gisborne
Sunbury97446334 rh.com.au/sunbury
A 4 B 2 C 6 F 19.07ac
View Sunday 18th August 11:00am-11:30am
ForSale $1,290,000 -$1,410,000 Web rh.com.au/kyneton
DiggersRest87409666 rh.com.au/diggersrest
Inspect&Explore
1807 Kyneton-RedesdaleRoad, Barfold
Country LifestylePlus-Views -PrivacyAdjoining the Campaspe River
•Lovelyviews in alldirections, gently undulating and private. This charming property, nestledinthe picturesque countryside, in the friendlyhamletof Barfoldmust be one of the best value and most appealing properties to come to market recently
Jason Woodford-Smith 0478 000441 jason.woodford-smith@kyneton.rh.com.au
