GizAsaurus’g randreveal
Amy Hume
The identity of Gisborne's loveable sign-baring dinosaur Giz Asaurus has been revealed as he moves to pass the suit on.
Gisborne teen Sam Upsher revealed himself as Giz to much excitement during the the Gisborne Festival parade earlier this month.
The 15-year-old created the identity about nine months ago as away to connect with community and spread kindness.
It was during aperiodofillness when Sam could not attend school and other commitments like sport.
His signs often carried positive or fun messages such as: "teachers are great creatures" and "honk if you love Gisborne". His social media posts were also hugely popular.
"It was areprieve to think about fun and nonsense instead of his illness. It's been really heart-warming for us," his mother Meagan told the Express
"It's wonderful to know that Sam has had such apositive impact on people."
The idea emerged when Sam first donned the suit to farewell aneighbourhood friend bound for camp. The reaction was one Sam wanted to recreate to spread cheer even further.
Since then he has visited many locations and events including local kinders and schools, aspecial birthday party, library, roundabouts, Gisborne Markets and even 'Jazzersize' at Woodend Winter Arts Festival.
That aforementioned neighbourhood friend was 13-year-old Jacob Ridolfi who later joined Giz for fun around town as 'New Giz Asaurus'.
Giz has had many highlights during his adventures including avisit to Warrina Aged Care, New Gisborne, where residents growled back at him. He also enjoyed a 'giant beach ball' event where strangers gathered to have fun in the school holidays.
But not everyone has loved Giz. Dogs have often shown their concern and toddlers may enjoy waving from adistance but up close a2.4 metre tall dinosaur is very confronting to some youngsters.
THE NEXT GIZ?
Since Sam has now recovered from illness and returned to school, he has decided to retire from the role of Giz but
would be happy to see the adventures continue.
He would like to pass on the Giz Asaurus suit, sign and social media accounts for the next individual to enjoy. Anyone interested is encouraged to express interest through The Giz Asaurus social media pages.
His parents, Paul and Meagan, are equally pleased with the joy Giz has brought.
"We'd really like to express our gratitude to the community for getting on board with our silly little thing," Meagan said.
"Every honk, high five, smile, Facebook comment and selfie has been awesome. Thanks for being so enthusiastic and em-
Urgent traffic solutions sought
Amy Hume
Macedon Ranges Shire Council is calling on Department of Transport for urgent traffic solutions for Woodend'snotorious Urquhart/High Street intersection.
Users of the intersection contend with main street congestion, aconfusing layout with several turning points and high volumes of traffic accessing service hot spots including the Coles supermarket and train station.
More than four years have passed since the councillors first sought action from the department and the town is still awaiting answers.
At council'smeeting last week, Cr Janet Pearce gained support to write to Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne.
The correspondence will outline ongoing daily safety concerns and request urgent written response on when arecommendation for treatment to the intersection will be made publicly available for community feedback.
Complaints about the intersection traffic had been persistent since Coles re-positioned itself at the busy corner in 2018.
Cr Pearce said the council registered early complaints with the department, and "after a few years of minimal response", sought ameeting with Regional Roads Victoria in 2020.
Acorridor study began shortly after,and during that time, the council heard several concerns from residents in nearby streets.
"The corridor study was completed, and we have since been waiting for aresponse," Cr Pearce said.
"Wehave been told that they (the department) are still continuing work on it."
Cr Pearce said an upgrade to address the intersection was estimated to be between $4 million and $7 million.
Works for the intersection were listed as a'medium-term' project in the draft Woodend Integrated Transport Study in 2022. At that time, the council anticipated afour-to-seven year timeframe for the works.
The Urquhart/High Street intersection was the prime concern for respondents to the transport study,making up 37 per cent of the 67 submissions.
bracing of joy –wehope the Giz Asaurus spirit will continue on.
"What started as afun little idea from a kid who just wanted to make people happy when his world was so small, has turned into such amarvellous experience that we will remember forever. Thank you all so, so much."
STICKERS OF SUPPORT
Sam designed two Giz Asaurus themed stickers to raise funds for the Gisborne Foodbank through their sales. He has been contributing at the foodbank since he was 10 years old.
The stickers are still available for purchase. See the Giz Asaurus Facebook page for how to make apurchase.
Gisborne teen Sam Upsher revealed himself as Giz at the Gisborne Festival parade earlier this month. He is pictured with friend Jacob Ridolfi –New Giz Asaurus.
Next step forKilmore’s former school
Kilmore'sformerColmont School will transition into an International Maarif Schools of Australia campus in January
Colmont School, formerly known as The Kilmore International School, was one of few schools in the state offering the International Baccalaureate program.
The school closed in 2022 at short notice and has been vacant since, despite community campaigns for it to become anew public high school.
International Maarif Schools of Australia acquired the campus when it became available for purchase in 2023.
The independent institution is part of aglobal network that spans 55 countries and Kilmore will be its second Australian campus. Its first opened in NSW five years ago.
It is expected the school will offer traditional studies, language and cultural studies. Turkish is amandatory part of the school'sbilingual education, and Islamic and Qur 'an studies will also be part of the school'scurriculum.
The school is non-denominational and open to families of all religions and backgrounds in the region. Primary education is expected to begin in January
Council services over Christmas
Therewill be changes to Council services overthe Christmas period.
Council offices, including the Castlemaine Civic Centre, will be closed from 3.00pm on Tuesday24December until 8.30am on Thursday 2January
If your bins arecollected on aWednesdayplease notethe following changes:
•Wednesday25December collection will takeplaceon Saturday28December
•Wednesday1January collection will takeplaceon Saturday4January
Wishing everyone aMerry Christmas and aHappy New Year from Councillors and Council staff
We’relooking forwardtoworking together with our community in the newyear
Council seeksinput on 2025/2026budget
Mount Alexander Shire Council is inviting residents to have their say on the council’s2025/2026 budget.
The submission process is now open for community members and organisations to submit aproposal for projects or funding considerations in the new financial year This is the opportunity to have your say on what you would like to see included.
Last year,council’s$47.99 million-dollar budget outlined the resources needed to deliver more than 100 services in the community including; roads, bridges, drains, open space, waste and recycling, animal management, maternal and child health, aged services, early education, emergency relief and recovery,aswell as other key projects.
Previous feedback on the council budgets hasresulted in funding allocations to support projects from local organisations such as the Castlemaine-Maryborough Rail Trail Group, Castlemaine Community House, Metcalfe Community Association, MainFM and Harcourt Valley Heritage and Tourist Centre Inc.
Mount Alexander mayor,CrRosie Annear,said that as asmall regional council, alot got done on alimited budget.
“With the cost of materials and services
increasing, and with more responsibilities and expectations from state and federal government, andcommunity,it’sincreasingly difficult todo the work we want todo with the funds we have," she said.
"Thisiswhereweneed our community’sinvolvement –wehave very passionate and engagedresidents, and their input is essential to help staffand councillors when we’re developing anew budget."
All community input received will be collated and provided to councillors for their review and consideration during the budget process.
Community members who provide a submission and wish to speak to their submissions may do as at the meeting of the council in May 2025.
Councillors will consider the draft budget for adoption at ameeting of the council in June 2025.
For more information, contact Keith Caldwell, council’smanager of finance, on 5471 1700 or at k.caldwell@mountalexander@vic.gov.au.
Submissions can be made by visiting www.shape.mountalexander.vic.gov.au emailing info@mountalexander.vic.gov.au or calling 5471 1700.
Mount Alexander Shire family, Australia Day –Survival Day 2024.
Photo: Diana Domonkos
Highlighting ric hherit age
Jade Jungwirth
It's been aroller coaster year for the Castlemaine State Festival, which is now preparing for its triumphant return in 2026 and its 50th anniversary celebrations.
Following heavy losses from the 2023 festival, Australia's longest-running regional multi-arts festival was forced into voluntary administration in March 2024. Afew months later, the committee announced it had reached agreements with creditors and the state government.
In August, the festival committee engaged arts industry experts, Martin Paten (former festival director) and Linda Sproul (a former CSF board member), to lead an eight-week strategic review to figure out the best way forward.
Mr Paten and Ms Sproul worked closely with the community, listening to their aspirations and assembling facts about the festival. They reviewed the current state of the festival industry, and looked at solutions for the next festival.
Ms Sproul told the Express that one of the most significant things to come out of their discussions, was the great love and pride people had that the festival had always been grounded in the places in the shire.
"Whether it's music performances in Carmen's Tunnel, beautiful music in the churches around Castlemaine, or an amazing performance out at Vaughn Springs, it's actually the unique spaces that create this amazing home and showcase the art," she said.
"Name me another town hall that sounds as good as ours for classical music.
"That's what the artist expression of
interest is about and that's why were using the theme 'Surprise! Surprise! Do you know about special secret places and spaces? We'll do our best to make it happen."
Ms Sproul and Mr Paten are aware of the impacts the cost-of-living crisis is having on the arts industry across Australia and the need to factor that in by looking at how the festival can engage different demographics.
They are also mindful that Mount Alexander Shire has awealthofincredible arts andperformance venues, so there is a need to look at what the festival can offer that is new and unique.
"People should have the opportunity to address all your senses. You should be able to eat food from this place, talk to wine makers that have made the wine you're drinking. You should be able to go out in beautiful spaces like Leanganook and actually see and hear andfeel,"MsSproulsaid.
"There is an awareness around the festival's legacy in shaping the identity of the town and shire. We are now known as aplace for all these industry residents, and maybe that's the outcome of 48 years of a festival that created aframework that allowed that kind of exchange of enthusiasm and passion.
"Our shire has more creative industry residents than any other local government area in Australia. It's that connection and network that we want to activate, and people are really proud of that."
The Castlemaine State Festival team is now accepting proposals for the 2026 with the theme 'Surprise! Surprise! For more details or to submit aproposal, visit www. castlemainefestival.com.au and complete the EOI form by 4pm on Friday March 14, 2025.
Crews work to contain fires
Firefighters arecontinuing to battle three main fir es across the stateatBullengarook, the Grampians National Park and The Gurdies.
Residents of Bu llengarookwere told to evacuate while residents of Gisborne, Macedon,MountMacedon, New Gisborn e, Woodend andsurrounding areas were on high alertover theweekend as thefire in Bullengarook spread across 144 hectares
High winds on Saturday fann ed the fire as it travelled fromCoffeys Road in anorth-easterly direction towards Mulchahy Roadand Waterloo FlatRoad.
More favourable weather conditions on Sunday allowed firefighters to work toslow the spreadoffire.
Authoritieswillcontinue tomonitor conditions leading up to the hot weather forecast for BoxingDay on Thursday
Areliefcentre was set up at the Kyneton Racecourse for those who had to evacua te.
There wer eno homes los tinthe blaze.
Former CSF board member Linda Sproul and former festival director Martin Paten were engaged to lead an eight-week review of the Castlemaine State Festival.
Increase in break-ins
Earlier this month apolice officer drew attention to acurrent increase in break-ins and theft from motor vehicles in the Macedon Ranges.
Senior Constable Steve Davies commented that the main reason behind this was "the safety of our area, which has caused people to become relaxed".
He is based as Romsey and currently relieving at Lancefield police station.
"A large majority of these incidents could be prevented by residents locking their cars, sheds, and houses," SC Davies suggested.
He urged residents to let friends and family know that this is the best way to prevent/deter these types of crimes occurring, along with timely reporting —contact 000.
He also recommended agoodquality home security set-up, which includes CCTV
Four men arrested
AR iddells Creek man is among four people arrested by police after av ehicle with allegedly stolen number plates was located at a service station in Wyndham Va le last Thursday night.
Patrolling police located the vehicle at the service station on Ballan Road about 8.45pm.
A3 8-year-old Wyndham Va le man, 45-year-old We rribee man, 38-year-old Riddells Creek and a 43-year-old Wyndham Va le man were arrested at the scene and will be interviewed.
Police also seized am achete and aq uantity of methamphetamine from the vehicle.
Investigations remain ongoing. Anyone with information that can assist investigators is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit ac onfidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
Programforced to relocate
Jade Jungwirth
The Castlemaine Secondary College Flexible Learning Options program has been relocated from the Etty Street Campus to the mainstream campus at Blakeley Road, in preparation for 2025.
Principal Justin Hird said that after years of pursuing additional funding for the program, the college had no option but to relocate the program.
"At this stage, we don't get enough funding and are unable to provide sufficient staff to support asecond campus," he said.
"We've tried for four years and did everything we could with our resources, often needing to re-direct significant resources from the Blakeley Road Campus to ensure additional staffing for FLO.”
"Without the funding, the physical environment was not maintained, leading to the students feeling undervalued and also isolated," Mr Hird said.
"Whilst this was not the outcome we had been hoping for, we are focused on the future, and we are confident and determined to provide engaging and thorough educational programs for all students."
The FLO program is designed to provide students from year nine to 12 with aflexible and individualised learning environment and more intensive wellbeing support and interventions. Supporting the learning needs of FLO students requires ahighly specialised set of skills, experience and passion dedicated to providing this specialised education. The new FLO program will cater for students in years eight to 10, while students in years 11 and 12 will have access to either the Victorian Certificate of Education or Vocational Major certificate.
MP Maree Edwards said she
would continue working with the school principal and the school to ensure all students at CSC received the support they needed.
"I will always advocate to ensure no child is left behind," she said.
CONCERNS RAISED
Former FLO coordinator, Jarrod Wiese, who spoke to his concerns about the move during public time at last week's meeting of Mount Alexander Shire Council, said having the program delivered away from the main school, where many students had negative experiences, was one of the many advantages of being at the Etty Street Campus.
"The students who engaged with the program weren't experiencing good outcomes at the main campus, particularly around
behaviour and attendance," he said.
"In general, these were significantly improved once they moved into the FLO program where we could create safe spaces, relationships, and provide the unconditional positive regard that they needed to support their learning.
"This enabled teachers to support them emotionally and socially as well as academically, which is often missing from mainstream settings, and key to their success."
Mr Wiese said he was disappointed when he learnt of the relocation because the program at Etty Street had become so important.
"We didall thehard work and finally got it there after so many
years. It really is ready to thrive and these changes are really devastating," he said.
"These changes make me worried for the FLO students, especially around their feeling of safety and increased exposure to the stigma, which is often directed at FLO students. Ithink this will likely negatively impact their attendance and disengagement now they are on the main site.
"Equitable access toeducation is so important and the FLO program is vital for providing this to our community and for having any hope of ending the cycle of negative and traumatic school experiences, which are often intergenerational. It also has important implications for our services down the line.
Limited funding and resources has led to the Castlemaine Secondary College Flexible Learning Options program being relocated from its own designated space to the mainstream campus at Blakeley Road.
Are youthe next Cas tlemaine Idyll?
Castlemaine Idyll organisers are excited to announce that it’sreally getting hot in here, as they open up performer registrations for Castlemaine Idyll 2025!
The fundraiser for Castlemaine'slot19 artspace is returning on Saturday March 15, 2025, and this time they’re adopting the theme 'Hits of the 80s, 90s AND 00s'.
For those not in the know,Castlemaine Idyll event manager Fionna Allan says Idyll is like across between a
reality tv show,yourhigh school eisteddfod, and the best karaoke night of your life.
"Local hopefuls apply to sing asong in front of the crowd, but unlike ashoddy karaoke bar in the city,these crooners are backed by ash*t-hot professional band, complete with horn section and backing singers. The theme for next year lends itself to some absolute bangers and awhole load of fun," Fionna said.
Castlemaine Idyll Kids Karaoke will also be back in 2025 –details will be available towards the end of January when tickets to Idyll go on sale.
Idyll is the primary fundraiser for lot19, and has been running for more than 16 years. The Idyll team reckon 2025 is your year –go on, treat yourselves!
Registrations close January 17, 2025. For more information or to register,visit www.lot19.au/idyll
First-time performers A-Mayes thrilled the 2024 Idyll crowd with their high-energy number.
Photo: Diana Domonkos
Glim pseatplant’s future
The Castlemaine community had an opportunity to have its say on plans to upgrade the Castlemaine WaterReclamation Plant at two public drop-in sessions this month.
Feedback from the public acknowledged the need to upgrade the plant to meet the area'sgrowing population, while ensuring improved wastewater treatment that will continue to benefit Campbells Creek’sflora and fauna.
The two drop-in sessions –one at the Maxi IGA complex in Castlemaine and one at the Castlemaine WaterReclamation Plant –were held for the public as part of the review of the project’sDevelopment Licence Application to the Environment Protection Authority
Plant program director Danny Childs said speaking with people during the site visit showed the passion they had for the environment surrounding the plant and the interest there was in the upgrades.
About 10 people toured the plant on
December 12 to learn more about the plans for the site, while several customers also registered for further sessions to be held in 2025.
"Not only were we able to show people where the new plant is proposed to be built, we were able to give them an understanding of the treatment process that delivers the essential service for the community,” Mr Childs said.
Coliban Wateralso hosted asix-hour pop-up session, speaking with more than 30 people at Maxi IGA Castlemaine complex on December 3about the upgrades.
The key messages heard from the Castlemaine community included the need for improved treatment of wastewater and acontinued acknowledgement of the important role regular water flows have in Campbells Creek’secology
Feedback on the DLA closed on December 16, but the community will have a chance to provide feedback on the planning permit application in the new year
Mr Childs said some early works had been completed at the Langslow Street site including planting more than 150 native plants and shrubs to assist with visual screening.
“Weare also in the process of installing abird hide, which will allow people to keep an eye on the birds who call our lagoons home,” hesaid.
Following the approvals for the project, upgrades will take several years to complete.
The upgrades will take place in the plant’sexisting boundary and increase the plant’streatment capacity,improve the quality of treated wastewater and provide more resilient sewer services to the growing Castlemaine community
The plant currently treats wastewater from 15,500 residents and businesses in Castlemaine and surrounding areas. Growth forecast estimates the Mount Alexander Shire’spopulation will hit 22,000 by 2028.
Seventeen lots approvedfor Gisbor ne
Macedo nRanges Shire Council has approved a17-lot subdivision on about five hectares at 104 Melton Road, Gisborne.
The application includes the removal of 1.903 hectares of native vegetation including 43 large trees and five patches of native vegetation, and the creation of three reserves.
The site also has various tracts of significant vegetation, particularly within the north-eastern and southern areas, with the application material identifying atotal of 166 trees on the subject site, most indigenous to Victoria.
Councillors voted in favour of the officer 's recommendation for approval in a7-2 vote, following debate around loss of vegetation and preferred development type.
Cr Christine Walker said the subdivision struck abalance of sufficient land use and maintaining the area's"resident ial and green character".
"It is the type of housing and development that our residents have asked for as Gisborne grows –these are large with alot of open space and considerable opportunity for future greening over time," Cr Walker said.
Cr Janet Pearce said there had been three iterations of the plans and they had been thoroughly addressed with several conditions added including some trees retained on private land.
The application attracted 10 objections. Some objections were received in response to an earlier version of the plan.
Objections referred to an over development of the site, poor layout, aneed to increase the size of reserve areas and wildlife corridors, extent of native vegetation removal, removal of dams, increased traffic, and inadequate sustainable development outcomes.
Cr Alison Joseph said she respected the applicant'sapproach. Her concern came from areport that highlighted the recording of four threatened gang-gang cockatoo. She felt the development and tree clearing proposed could impact the birds.
Cr Jennifer Anderson held concern about the loss of vegetation and potential impact on identified flora and fauna.
Councillors in favour of the application were: Borthwick, Kendall, Pearce, Scanlon, Walker and Young. Those against were: Anderson and Joseph. Mayor Dominic Bonanno was not present for the debate or vote due to adeclared conflict of interest.
Past Apex Club of Castlemaine volunteers will be out in force once again tomorrow morning, Christmas Day,visiting streets across Castlemaine and beyond with the big man in red handing out icy poles and lollies to excited youngsters.
This year marks the 87th anniversary of the beloved annual Past Apex Club of Castlemaine Santa Run, which has cemented its place in the hearts and minds of locals over the past eight decades.
The Guildford Grumpies Car Club Inc has once again donated $1500 to support the annual Santa Run, and locals are also encouraged to make adonation when the utes visit your street, avenue or court and help keep this wonderful local tradition thriving.
Past Apexian Stephen Cooper said they hoped the weather would be kinder to them in 2024.
"Christmas Day 2023 was extremely wet but we persevered, and rain, hail or shine we will beout spreading the Christmas joy again tomorrow!" he said.
In 2024, Santa and his helpers will undertake five runs across the local region. Volunteers will gather from 6.30am and hit the road from 7-7.30am on runs throughout Castlemaine and Campbells Creek, out to Chewton and Elphinstone and Guildford. With housing estates across the region growing in size, they may be alittle later than usual as they get around to everyone. Look for signage in your town for times or listen for the bells, horns and Ho, Ho, Hos!
Santa and his helpers from the former Apex Club of Castlemaine will be out in force tomorrow.
Theme setfor dawn service
Planning is under way for the 2025 Mount Macedon Anzac Day Dawn Service, with the theme for next year’sevent unveiled by the volunteer organising committee.
The theme for the 2025 event will be ‘The Unseen Wounds of Conflict’, exploring the many impacts that war has on those who serve, from the physical injuries to the mental effects and the wider repercussions for families.
President of the Mount Macedon Anzac Day Dawn Service Committee, Leona Latcham, said the impacts and sacrifices of service were not always obvious.
“Physical scars can be just asmall part of what service people manage after their service period. The impacts can run far deeper and for many years after the time of service, often for life,” Leona said.
“Wewant to acknowledge what serving one’s country really entails and also celebrate the Australian strength of spirit that shines through as we explore stories of local service people.”
The Mount Macedon Anzac Day Dawn Service organising committee also farewelled akey member of the team, as Jamie Byron stepped down from his position on the committee.
Leona thanked Jamie for his many years of volunteer work helping to bring the Mount Macedon Anzac Day Dawn Service to life for the local community
“Wethank Jamie for his long-term involvement in the organising committee over two separate terms, during which he was instrumental in the planning of the event.”
To make adonation to the 2025 Mount Macedon Anzac Day Dawn Service, visit www.mtmacedondawnservice.org and click on the Donate button.
To keep up-to-date with the 2025 event, visit the website or follow on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ MountMacedonAnzacDayDawnService.
MMADDS thanks its sponsors including the Victorian Government through Victorian Veterans Council, Macedon Ranges Shire Council, Bendigo Community Bank Gisborne and Region, Public Transport Victoria, Gisborne Region Events Activities and Tourism and KGMG Creative.
Engaging young people
Mount Alexander Shire Council has been granted almost $300,000 to run youth projects in the shire through the Engage! program and the youth-run Eight Metre Speaker committee.
The Engage! program will receive $170,000 to work with young people, community organisations and service providers to provide activities, training and development programs. The programs will be aimed at supporting young people to feel more engaged, valued, resilient and empowered to thrive.
The Eight Metre Speaker committee will received $120,000 to deliver adiverse and inclusive range of music and cultural events for young people in the shire. The program will focus on skill development, connection to community and local industry and developing career pathways.
MP Maree Edwards, who made the funding announcement last Thursday,saidthe two programs gave young Victorians the power to shape their own communities, discover their voices and realise their full potential.
“This investment ensures young people across central Victoria have the tools, resources and opportunities they need to thrive —creatively,personally and professionally," she said.
“Initiatives like Eight Metre Speaker and Mount Alexander Engage Program not only help young people build practical skills and showcase their talents, but also plant the seeds for something truly extraordinary —paving pathways to exciting futures.”
The theme for the 2025 Mount Macedon Anzac Day Dawn Service will be ‘The Unseen Wounds of Conflict’.
Eight Metre Speaker is acommittee of young people that develop, plan and deliver events for 12- 25 year olds in the Mount Alexander Shire.
Maintenance funds forWPS
Woodend Primary School will receive funding from the state'sPlanned Maintenance Program to completely rebuild three ramps and undertake minor works at five ramps.
This is the latest round of PMP,which provides funding to address high-priority maintenance works across Victoria’sgovernment schools. The program ensures schools can undertake essential work in classrooms and other school buildings such as fixing roofs and replacing windows, maintaining ramps, and painting.
Works are determined by arolling facilities evaluation process, which provides up-to-date information on the condition of schools to create afaster and more targeted allocation of funding.
The CompostC onversation
Don’t kill your compost, it’salive!
Good quality, home-made compost is teaming with life, and because of this we need to care for it, to the very end!
When we have spent months making agreat batch of compost, getting it just right, the last thing we want to do is kill it.
At the heart of it, compost is about creating the right environment for the diverse array of soil microbes to feed, multiply and flourish! As the microbes digest the ingredients we add to our compostpile, they unlock previously unavailable nutrients and make them available to plants, and other animals.
For the soil food web to function well it needs food, water and air.This is true at all stages of composting, including when the compost is mature and ready to go into the garden.
Unlike commercial compost, which is dried out and has a higher carbon content to assist with processing and distribution, home-made compost is moist and sticky and will adhere to our tools, gloves, clothes and skin. We want this amazing ‘glueyness’ in compost, it holds onto water,feeds the soil and builds good soil structure.
But these qualities can all be undone if we mismanage our finished compost. If good-quality compost is allowed to dry out, it will get hard and crisp on the outside and become hydrophobic, meaning it will repel water,rather than absorb it. Many of the microscopic life forms in the compost will either die or go into akind of hibernation/stasis where they put aprotective (water repelling) coating around themselves.
At YIMBY,werecommend covering compost as it ‘cures’ with agood layer of straw or other carbon-rich, mulchy material. Shade cloth or acanvas tarp are also good for protecting compost from the sun and wind. The important thing is to keep our compost from drying out. This care is still required when we
spread finished compost on the garden. Covering the compost with aprotective layer of mulch to keep the compost moist and happy
When we are ready to take our precious compost from the protection of its bay and dig it into the garden, it’simportant to getitinto the garden as soon as possible. If we leave compost sitting in abucket or barrow for too long it can dry out in hot conditions, or drown in rainy weather,a sorry end to months of careful microbe farming.
Good compost needs to be looked after,don’t kill it, care for it.
From allofusatthe YIMBY team thank you for reading, supporting and responding to the Compost Conversation in 2024. Have avery joyful Christmas, New Year and summer break. The Compost Conversation will return in early 2025 after atrip to the beach for seaweed collecting. Happy composting!
–Mikaela Beckley and Joel Meadows work 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!
Mikaela with ahandful of lovely rich compost, Joel making sure it is protected with alayer of carbon-rich straw.
Calls forwildlife roadway suppor t
Residents are petitioning Macedon Ranges Shire Council for improved wildlife signage and speed limit review in wildlife corridors.
Apetition presented to the council last week, had 59 signatories calling for more funding to be allocated for roadway wildlife protection in the council's2024-25 budget.
The petition seeks wildlife warning signage, aspeed limit review with aview to speed reduction in wildlife prone areas, and wildlife corridor feasibility studies.
Areport will be prepared in response to the petition and presented at afuture council meeting for consideration.
Lowering debt
Federal Member for McEwen Rob Mitchell is backing moves to reduce student loan debts.
Mr Mitchell said are-elected Labor government would cut afurther 20 per cent off all student loan debts, delivering cost-of-living support for all those with astudent debt, including more than 17,000 in McEwen.
“This will help everyone with astudent debt right now,whether you are studying at university or vocational education," Mr Mitchell said.
The cuts include all HELP,VET Student Loan, Australian Apprenticeship Support Loans and other income-contingent student support loan accounts that exist on June 1 next year Labor has also said it would raise the repayment threshold and lower repayment rates from July 2025.
SUPER QUIZ?
Local knowledg e (1 point)
which
2. The Castlemaine Cannons compete in which sport?
3. Woodend’s Lucinda Johnson-Cornes has her textile design featured on furniture at which shopping centre? 4. In which Mount Alexander town is Campbell House located? (3 points) 5. Local netballer Chloe Eyre will join which squad?
knowledg e (1 point)
6. Australian company T2 specialises in what?
7.
8.
Project spreads fes tive c heer
Dhelkaya Health'smuchloved Christmas Tree Project is back for another year,continuing its mission to support local families and individuals during the festive season.
The initiative invites staffto donate non-perishable foods, toiletries and small gifts, which are then packed into Christmas hampers and delivered to those in the Mount Alexander Shire who need them most.
This year,the team behind the project has been once again amazed by the generosity of Dhelkaya Health staff.
Registered nurse and longtime Christmas Tree Project volunteer Lisa Jackson said they were incredibly grateful for the outpouring of donations this year
"With so many people facing tough times, we worried that donations might be down. But instead, we’ve seen our staffdig deep and show just how much they care for those in our community.It’struly heartwarming to see the generosity that shines through even in difficult times."
Once all donations are collected, the team gets to work organising them into beautifully wrapped hampers filled with everything from holiday treats like pudding and mince pies, to everyday essentials like
pasta, toiletries, and soap. The hampers are then delivered to families who are currently struggling with housing insecurity
Dhelkaya Health senior housing worker Michael McMahon, who helps coordinate deliveries, said for many of the families they assist, the holidays were an especially difficult time
"With so many people already under strain, it’sheartbreaking to see them decide between buying gifts or providing a meal for their children," he said.
"This project gives us a chance to step in and offer alittle relief, providing both practical support and some much-needed festive cheer."
The Christmas Tree Project is an importantreminder ofhow communities come together in times of need. This year’s initiative is expected to reach more families than ever before, thanks to the collective kindness of Dhelkaya Health staffand the generosity of local donors.
Lisa extended her heartfelt thanks to donors.
"Wewant to thank everyone who contributed to the Christmas Tree Project. The support we’ve received is overwhelming, and it’shumbling to know that we can help makethis holiday season alittle brighter for so many in need."
John Marsden dies
Celebrated Australian author and Macedon Ranges' Alice Miller School founder John Marsden has died aged 74.
Marsden wrote the internationally best-selling Tomorrow book series, which was adapted for film and television. His first book So much to Tell You was published in 1987.
Over his career he has sold more than 2.5 million books in Australia alone and won many major awards for children's and adult fiction.
In 2006 he received the Lloyd O'Neil Award for contributions to Australian publishing.
Marsden purchased Macedon's Tye Estate in 1998 as 850 acres of natural bush, and later added the property next door. For eight years he ran enormously popular writers' courses and camps at Tye, before starting his own P-8 school there, Candlebark, in 2006. Alice Miller School, asecondary school with strong creative focus, opened in 2016.
Who
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Elaine
US
Bush kinder backed
Rothschild Road Kindergarten at Willowbank Primary School will benefit from state government funding for bush kinder Bush kinder is run in parks, bushland and beaches, giving children the opportunity to explore and develop curiosities through activities such as climbing trees, playing with natural materials and watching wildlife.
One-off$6000 grants help kindergartens buy the items and equipment they need to run programs.
1. John Ellis is associated with
Macedon Ranges winery?
Which artist painted the 1658 work titled The Milkmaid?
What are two countries bordering Myanmar?
9. What pattern typically appears on the jumpers of Sesame Street characters Bert and Ernie? (3
10.
played
on the
sitcom Seinfeld? Super Quiz answers: 1. Hanging Rock Winery. 2. Basketball. 3. Melbourne Central Shopping Centre. 4. Castlemaine. 5.
One Nations Black Swans netball squad. 6. Tea. 7. Johannes (Jan) Vermeer. 8. Thailand, Laos, China, India and Bangla-
desh. 9. Stripes. 10. Julia Louis-Dreyfus.
Dhelkaya Health staff Lisa Jackson, Kym Cross, Mary Donoghue, Janice Kebede, Michael McMahon, Megan Clift and Brita Johanson are pictured with theincredible haul of donations.
Lighting up Kyneton
has afestive glow thanks to anew Kyneton Christmas Collective lights and decoration competition this year
The newly formed collective is asmallgroup of passionate community members planning Christmas activities in Kyneton throughout December
Alights and decoration competition has been amuch-anticipated event with prizes awarded for the residential displays.
The Kyneton Christmas Collective has released this year 's winners and highlighted displays as follows:
First prize: 11 Jesse Evelyn Crescent
Second prize: 14 Clowes Street
Highly commended: 9Windridge Way
Highly commended: 15 Jesse Evelyn Crescent
Most Resourceful: 97 Beauchamp Street (for their gingerbread cubby house)
KCC committee member Alice Elston said the collective had brought the community together as planned.
"Christmas is atime when our community should come together,and the events organised by the collective have done exactly this," she said.
"I grew up in Kyneton and have such fond memories of Christmas back then, so we we’re so excited that our own kids will be able to look back on their Christmases in Kyneton in the same way."
Watch this space. The collective has plenty more planned for 2025.
Repair station open
The bike repair station was jointly funded by the Macedon and Mount Macedon Business and Tourism Association and Bendigo Bank.
Kyneton
The Kyneton Christmas Collective has been bringing people together through festive magic this season.
Macedon'snew bicycle repair station has officially opened at Ash Wednesday Park.
bike repair station is where cyclists can access arange of tools to make small bicycle repairs and instructions to do so by QR code. It is the first of its kind in the Macedon Ranges, inspired by those seen along bicycle paths in metropolitan areas.
The official opening earlier this month included special guests Macedon Ranges mayor Domenic Bonanno and Olympian cyclist Loretta Hansen.
Many local residents attended with their bicycles and went into the draw to win a$150 Voucher from Woodend Cycles. The lucky winner was Noah Shaw
The official opening earlier this month included special guests Macedon Ranges mayor Domenic Bonanno (cutting ribbon) and Olympian cyclist Loretta Hansen.
Avisionary rural retreat on 10 acres
An architectural statement set amid 10 glorious acres, this exceptional brick veneer homestead marries rural charm with modern sophistication. Just 7km from Castlemaine, moments from Golden Point Reservoir and with seamless access to the Calder Freeway, this home has been masterfully reimagined to offer asanctuary where luxury and landscape coexist in perfect harmony
The residence, spanning 344m ,has been meticulously renovated, blending refined elegance with functional living.
Asweepingveranda frames the home, offering ever-changing vistas of the countryside. Inside, light-filled spaces flow effortlessly,while three living zones provide versatility for formal entertaining or relaxed gatherings.
Aculinary haven: At the heart of this home lies achef’skitchen designed performance and artistry.High-end appliances, custom cabinetry and expansive surfaces make it as practical as it is beautiful. Three renovated bathrooms continue the theme of luxury,each offering designer finishes and asoothing retreat-like feel.
Private retreats: The main suite is asanctuary itself, featuring avast walk-in robe and a superb ensuite. Family and guests are catered for with spacious bedrooms that ensure privacy for all. Double glazing throughout enhances comfort, whileseamless indooroutdoor connectivity ensures year-round enjoyment.
Entertaining reimagined: An entertainer’sdream unfolds outside, where an eight-metre heated pool takes centre stage, complemented by apoolside bar,bathroom and adjoining recreation room.
Beyond the home: For hobbyists or entrepreneurs, a17m x15.5m workshop is agamechanger,offeringendless potential. Alarge carport and abespoke, remote-controlled Tait gate entry complete the exterior appointments, while 17KW of solar panels with Tesla battery storage underscore the property’scommitment to sustainability.With town water, 84,000L tank storage, 130m deep bore water,and two dams, this property is primed for agricultural ventures, hobby farming or simply creating aprivate oasis.
Additional living: Adetached two-bedroom cottage adds flexibility – ideal as aguesthouse, multi-generational accommodation or separate income.
This is not merely ahome; it is an experience – crafted for those who demand the extraordinary.Scheduleyour private tour and experience the unparalleled luxury,style and space this remarkable property has to offer
Property: Visionary rural retreaton10acres
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Price: $2,850,000
Agent: Belle Property Castlemaine
Contact: Narelle Waller 0408 571131 RobWaller 0418 571130
ly lovedwifeofCliff (Dec) and loving mother to Colin and Mar lene,Geoff and Lisa. Mimma to Kassie and Daniel, Ben and Brodie Great Grandma to Matilda and Evelyn. Aspecial person, aspecial face aspecial someone we cannot replace Special thanks to the staff at Penhall their devotion and care of our Mother
Afuneral ser vice will be held forColeenonFriday10thJanuar
Aser vice to celebrate Reg’slife will be held in the Chapel of Mount Alexander Funerals, 12 Campbell Street, Castlemaine on Monday30thDecember at 1.30pm. To join us at the ser vice via livestream, please visit Reg’stribute page on the website of Mount Alexander Funerals
earning and Development Officer, time usiness Support Officer –Rostering, Fulltime usiness Support Officer –Home Support, Part time eam Leader –SealedRoads, time dWorker –Sealed Roads, time more: mountalexander.vic.gov.au phone 5471 1700
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Public Notice of Precipice, Tacit
Acceptance and Reconveyance
James Alamanos of Fr yerstown, Victor ia State, is not avoluntar ytransactor in commerce,and is an irrefutable holder in due course of his proper ty including the land known as Crown Allotment12A, Section 15 Parish of Fr yers, also known as 46 Prestidge Lane,Fryerstown, Victor ia State,3451, and all associated copyr ightprotectedtrade names since unrebutted lawful reconveyance to the land and soil jur isdiction of TerraAustralis,commonlyknown as the dominion of the Commonwealth of Australia,Public Record Number :RPP4463900051003628956603, Proclamation Date: 19th of November,2024; severing userfr uct subjugationtieswith the Australian Cor poration in its entirety.The occupying de facto cor porate government of Australia and its affiliates are instr ucted to immediately cease and desist anyfur ther infr ingement upon these copyr ight-protected financial instr uments and cease and desist misrepresenting James Alamanos as asur name/ merchant, and/or styled In fraudulent, debased DOG-LATIN, Glossa, in all capital letters that represent afiction of law, adeceptivecontractand amalfeasance
NOTICE TO ALL ADVERTISERS
Section 29 of the Fair Trading Act 1999 requires the inclusion of afull name and address (not PO BoxNumber) –inall adver tisements for the supplyofgoods and services.
ELLIOTT MIDLAND NEWSPAPERS advisesall displayser vice adver tisements must comply with the above requirement to avoid prosecution, or provide those detailstoustopass to theDept.ofJustice if requested
Lions Club Christmas raffle drawn by Amelia, Wholelife. 1st -Kerry, Kyneton. 2nd -Ken, Kyneton. 3rd -Gayle, Tylden. 4th -Christine, Kyneton. Thank you to all who participated.
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KYNETON
Collins Newsagency -MollisonSt
Express Office -Market Street
Fika Café
Kyneton Home Hardware
Kyneton IGA
Kyneton /Daylesford Drycleaners
Watts Fresh -MollisonStreet
EG Ampol Petrol Station
MALMSBURY
General Store
REDESDALE /LANGLEY
General Store
TRENTHAM /TYLDEN
IGA Country Store
General Store
WOODEND /CARLSRUHE
IGA Woodend
Woodend Newsagency
Carlsruhe Roadhouse
GISBORNE
Foodworks
Gisborne IGA
RIDDELLS CREEK
Riddells Creek Newsagency
MACEDON
Macedon IGA
Macedon Newsagency &Post Office
MT.MACEDON
Mt Macedon Trading post
ROMSEY
Romsey IGA
LANCEFIELD
Lancefield IGA
Liberty Service Station
Property Management Macedon Ranges
CASTLEMAINE
Ampol Service Station -Johnstone Street
Belle Property -Barker Street
Caravan Park Big -Doran Street
Castlemaine IGA -Barker Street
Castlemaine Property Group
Castlemaine Vintage Bazaar
Cumberland -Barker Street
Daily Express -C/M Railway Station
Das Coffee House -Mill- Walker Street
Hot &Crusty -BarkerStreet
Jellis Craig -Mostyn Street
Lyal Eales -BarkerStreet
Maxi IGA -Hargreaves Street
Newsagency -Mostyn Street
Regional Enterprise -Halford Street
Tingays smash repairs -Elizabeth Street
CHEWTON /TARADALE
ELPHINSTONE
Grist Bakery -Wesley Hill
East End Servo -Main
Chewton Post Office
Elphinstone Post Office
Taradale Metro Fuel
HARCOURT
Post Office
Harcourt BP
CAMPBELLS CREEK /GUILDFORD
Mt Alexander Timber &Hardware
Campbells Creek Post Office
Five Flags Merchants
Guildford Post Office
NEWSTEAD
Newstead Grocer/Bakery
Post Office/RSD
Newstead Country Store
MALDON
Newsagency -Main Street
Maldon Information Centre
Baringhup Store
CASTLEMAINE
Town & District
Castlemaine'sfinal game for the year was Saturday's'Yellow Ball' event, with 20 teams participating.
The team of Les Prendergast, Ross Stevens, Marty Cross and Ian Gilmore took the honours with 43 points, with Greg Crowe, Norm and Thomas Bellis and Paul Miller three behind.
The all-female team of Helen Skinner, Helen McEwen, Swee Ho and Bronwyn Gudgeon rounded out the top three.
Regular stableford followed, with the overall and B-grade winner Ross Stevens (13) with 43 points, two clear of Billy Burgess (13).
A-grade went to Ian Gilmore (11) with 39, one ahead of Jeremy Bottomley (6), while Paul Miller (27) shone in C-grade with 40 points, from Thomas Bellis (29) on 38.
NTPs were Wayne Toohey and Mark Brackley,with Peter McCoombe firing the sole eagle.
There was acountback to decide Thursday'spar event winner,with Tayler Walsh (21) edging out Connie Dimopoulos both +3; Laurie Harding (14) topped A-grade with +1, onacountback from WayneToohey (14).
Birthday boy Kors VanEyk andLeigh Campbell were the NTPs.
GISBORNE
Ho, ho, ho, alarge field of jolly golfers competed in theGentsome'sFoursomes on Saturday
Like the name suggests, theclub's four gentsomes —MaurieCallegari, Tony Abate,Adrian Barlow and James Golland —won with ascore of 108 points.
The theory that "only gentsomes win gentsomes competitions" is supported with Laing, Coates, Rowsell andDean finishing not far offthe bottom.
OnWednesday,Beth Wheelan won the women'sstableford with an impressive 41 points, two clear of Betty Glover
Finally,Gisborne Golf Clubwould like to thank its members and the wider regional community for their continued support throughout one of the toughest and most challenging years; it truly is very humbling, and we are forever grateful.
We areexcited for the future, when the rebuild begins and we become not only afirst class sporting facility,but also aregionalcommunity hub for social engagement and building friendship.
Wishing all asafe, enjoyable and merry Christmas and happy New Year KYNETON
False flags, crazy pin positions and an irrigation hose looped around the target were just some of the challenges of the Greenkeepers' Revenge in the club's Christmas celebration on Saturday
The 56-player field had to play with the opposite hand on the par 317th, dodge 50 cans on the 18th green, and hoist their approaches over greenkeeping equipment, fences and furniture on other holes.
Denise Murphy and Noel Alldis.
In Thursday'snine-hole shoot out, head greenkeeper Tom Rickard (28) looked set to complete ahat-trick of victories before his 22 points were matched by Shaun Neeson (21) who parred the last and won on acountback.
David Moore (4) birdied two of the last three to edge Mick McQualter (12) for third on 20.
LANCEFIELD
Greg Parks had two excellent rounds to take out thestableford championship. The event was scheduled to be played over three rounds, but adverse weather reducedittotwo.
Parks showed aliking for the stableford format with rounds of 43 and 41 points, foran overall winning tally of 84 points.
In the third and final round, placegetters were: Greg Parks (12) 41 points, from David Mannix (16) 40 and Gavin Winwood (13)39.
MOUNT MACEDON
Sean Smyth (12) was the B-grade andoverallwinnerwith 39 points in Saturday'sstableford.
Mick Doyle (7) topped A-grade with 37 points on acountback fromJim Hynes(1), andPeter Semmens (22) was best in C-grade with 36
Mike Hoiles (14th) and Darren Mantynen each scores eagles.
It was apseudoGold Plate competition last Wednesday,withteams of four drawn randomly at the end of the stableford round, and the best three scores from each team tallied.
The winning team comprised Karl Pongracic 38, Joel Scanlon 31, Tony Carter 28 and Peter Semmens 33 for a102 total. Jenny Svendsen 34, Kellie Spry 33, Ian Flannery 34 and Gary Liddy 23 were next best on 101.
Pongracic's38pointswas the best individual score.
ROMSEY
The Ambrose format on Saturday saw all teams scoring well under par,and final scores were very close.
Just one shot separated first from third as players adapted to the strong south westerly winds.
Winners with a61.5 tally were Dylan Harris, Simon Donovan and Craig Sandy Luke Lyons, Davey Kenney and Neil Moroney finished on 62.17, with Mitch Atlas, Mal Mottram and Steve Wilkins third on 62.5.
Zac Scales had the longest drive, and Harris, Lyons and Keith Hocking shred the NTPs.
Jenny Hartley took out the December medal with around of 95-25-70 and had the least putts on Wednesday
David Jones was the day'srunner-up with 90-20-70, and Darlene Baker 90-1872 finished third.
TRENTHAM
Saturday'smultiplication mixed stableford attracted 82 players.
Quality still came to the surface, with club champion Colin Hudgson carding a79totake individual honours, while captain Julie Harris led in the women.
The best team score came from Terry Gamble, Pat Clohesy,Damian Summers and Ross Foreman.
Summers won furthest from the pin on the 4th, David Ryan was NTP on the 9th, and TimMunro was halfway to the green on the 14th for the longest drive with an old sand wedge.
It was business as usual on Wednesday,with Craig Fitzpatrick (36) romping home with 42 stableford points, twoclear of treasurer Barry Keane (25) and Ross Martin (12). The women'swinner was Teaote Davies (21) with 38.
NTPs went to Davies and Martin (both 2), Rachael McAndrew,Col O'Sullivan,
Winners with an incredible 86 points were Kirsten Jensen and Alan Snowdon, with runners-up on 79being Colin Wilson —AndreaKreele.
For those players who would like to have ahit as an after-Christmas recovery,there's aBoxing Day event on at Trentham.
WOODEND
Afield of 65 turned out forthe preChristmas stableford onSaturday, with some excellent scores returned
The overall and B-grade winner Michael Bird(16) returned 43 points. David Sipthorpe (9) won A-grade with 39, from Adam Chew 37, with C-grade going to RobChairello (22) with37, on a countback from Samantha Pierce (32). Tuesday stableford: Gordon Oreo (13) 43 points, from Ian Gilmour (27) and Fergus Nevin (13) both 41.
Triples champions
AKyneton Bowling Club team has won adramatic Ballarat Highlands Bowls Region triples championship final.
Earlier this month the trio of Glen Gascoyne, Graham Edwards and Greg Podesta (skipper) —all newcomers to Kyneton this season —won the final with asingle shot on the first extra end after scores were tied 16-16 after the mandatory 18 ends.
North Ballarat'sWill Hodgetts, Dan Marek and Alex Parker (s) led by two shots going into the 18th end to seemingly hold the title in their grasp before Podesta produced two brilliant bowls to secure two shots and tie the match.
The final was played at Sebastopol Bowling Club, and both sides were applauded on their performance.
The Kyneton trio now represent the region in the state finals to be played in Bendigo in early April.
Clubseeks director
Kyneton Football Netball Club is seeking anew seniorwomen’sfootball director as it embarksona new era for senior women’sfootball at theclub for 2025 and beyond.
Newly elected president Guy Nelson said the club had fielded junior,youthand senior football teams for many years.
"We've had considerable success and remain committed to continuing to field asenior women’sfootball team and to continue to create the pathway and opportunity for our junior and youth girls to play football at Kyneton," Nelson said.
"Weare seeking amotivated leader to drive the women'sprogram.
"If this is of interest, contact our club manager on the below email.
"Welookforward to soon welcoming back our existing players for the season ahead and any new players who would like to join us are very welcome.”
To register your interest, email manager@kynetonfnc.com
Romseyrollfavour ites in season best effor t
Bill West
Kyneton's exceptional unbeaten run in Highlands division one pennant bowls this season is over.
On Saturday, Romsey produced its best sustained effort this season to topple the ladder-leaders by 13 shots and move into fourth spot on the ladder.
It was the victory the Redbacks needed, and their chance of the double chance has been revived.
Kyneton was without regular skipper Anthony Mathison, and Romsey had the formidable Nathan Lynch showing his expertise.
New club champ Aaron Young had 12 shots to spare, and Lynch accounted for the classy Greg Podesta by six. John O'Donnell secured two points for the visitors.
Kyneton Golf showed ominous form at home, downing Gisborne by 35 shots to gain maximum points. Troy Williams' rink won by 20 shots.
Golf clearly has its sights set on second place, presently occupied by avery competitive Kilmore.
Trentham moved further away from the dreaded 'wooden spoon' with abelowstrength Lancefield —without its two cur-
‘The Rock’ on again
The countdown is on to the annual New Year 's Day race meeting at the famous Hanging Rock. Kyneton &Hanging Rock Racing Club is gearing up for the big day,which serves as aprelude to Hanging Rock Cup Day (Australia Day) later in January
Many 'regulars' are expected to come along once again on New Year 's Day,and many newcomers as well.
There will be free kids' activities, giveaways, and live entertainment on course.
Ashuttle bus service will link up with the railway station at Woodend.
rent club champions —going down by 16 shots.
Tim Cook had abig win, Bob Dobinson did well again, and the consistent John Parks gained two points for the Tigers.
Current ladder: Kyneton 129, Kilmore 123, Kyneton Golf 115, Romsey 107, Diggers Rest 97, Gisborne 58, Trentham 53, Broadford 49, Lancefield 32. WOODEND BY 66
The biggest winning margin for the round was 66 shots by division 2ladder-leader Woodend.
This division also produced two exciting finishes, with Macedon downingRomsey by three shots to move into fourth place, and bottom side Broadford temporarily stopping Kyneton's bid for finals spot.
Second-placed Kyneton Golf shone with a41-shot margin at Kilmore, John Trounce and Wayne Turner having sizeable wins.
Ladder: Woodend 143, Kyneton Golf 128, Romsey94, Macedon91, Kyneton 87, Gisborne 70, Kilmore 63, Diggers Rest 50, Broadford 47.
STILL ON TOP
Division 3ladder-leader Kilmore withstood astrong challenge from fourth-placed Gisborne (3), the overall margin being 11 shots.
GDCA ladders
The battle for the double chance in Gisborne District Cricket Association's McIntyre Cup 1sts will be really on after the Christmas /New Year holiday break.
The importance of bonus points is emphasised by reigning premier Gisborne regaining top place ahead of Romsey and Woodend.
Current ladder positions: McIntyre 1sts: Gisborne 46.92 points, Romsey 44.32, Woodend 44.25, Rupertswood 39.23, Sunbury United 38.65, Broadford 21.14, Macedon 17.82, Sunbury Kngaroos 14.63. Johnstone Shield 1sts: Wallan 47.05, Eastern Hill 40.05, East Sunbury 36.7, Aintree 33.60, Diggers Rest/Bulla 31.82, Kilmore 29.24, Eynesbury 28.64.
Second-placed Romsey gained 14 points at Lancefield with astrong second half, and Mt Cottrell held Kyneton atbay despite agoodperformance from Noel Rawlings' rink.
Bohdan Wasyl's Macedon rink won by 31 shots as the Cats remained in finals contention with abig win against Trentham.
Ladder: Kilmore 136, Romsey 126, Mt Cottrell 124, Gisborne (3) 110, Macedon 97, Kyneton 94, Lancefield 85, Woodend 81, Trentham 54, Gisborne (4) 37.
ALL THE SCORES
Highlands pennant bowls scores from round 12 on Saturday were:
Division 1: Romsey 69 dKyneton 56 —N.Lynch (s) 23 dG.Podesta17, A. Young 27 dG Edwards 15, G. Taylor 19 lost to J. O'Donnell 24; Kyneton Golf71 d Gisborne 36 —T Williams 29 dT Wylie 9, R. Wilkinson 26 dP.Williams 16, P. Linehan 21 dD.Beardmore 11; Trentham 70 dLancefield 54 --R. Dobinson 23 dA Andrews 16, T. Cook 31 dC.Jolly 13, C. McKeone 16lost to J. Parks 25; Diggers Rest 51lost to Kilmore 63 —S Browne 18 dG Drusko17, B.Janner 18 lost toS Fitzgerald 22 ,R.Treweek 15 lost to D. Noonan 24.
Division 2: Broadford 56 dKyneton 50
League AGM
Anyone interested in being considered as amember of the Board of Bendigo Football Netball League in 2025 had better act quickly The league'sannual general meeting is to be held at 7.30pm on Wednesday,January 15. Nominations for board positions, and any other business to be transacted, must be received by the league by 6pm on Wednesday,January 1. At present the board comprises seven members; and there is provision for up to nine persons to serve on the board.
—R.Chapman 16 lost to J, Cooper 19, A.Fisher 24 dD.Kennedy 17, P. Hoskins 16dM.Bermingham 14; Woodend 98 d Diggers Rest 32 —N.Bickerdyke 28dR Beckett 20,T. Lennie 36dP Marinier 6, S.Pickles 34 dA.Tocci 6;Kilmore 42lost to Kyneton Golf 83— A. Langdon 9lost to J.Trounce 36, C. Hodgson 11 lost toW Turner 29, S.Hawkless 22dJ McQualter 18;Macedon61d Romsey 58 —G.Dickenson 29dJ.Beaumont 14, I. Matthews 15lost to G. Gilligan 25, I.Guymer 17 lost toS.Mayger 18.
Division 3: Macedon 76 dTrentham 44 —B.Wasyl 39dM.Kent8,M.Cameron 16 lostto P. Bremner 17, A. Grant 21dI Bruton 19; Mt Cottrell 62 dKyneton 50 G.Bonnici 26dB Rowe 12; B.Robinson 14lost to N. Rawlings 23, J. Langley 22d J. Epps 15; Gisborne (3) 56 lost toKilmore 67— D. Morgan 21 lost to K.Campbell 28, S. Lawless 16lost to S. Bloomfield 17, S.Fallowfield 19 lost to M. Johnson 22; Gisborne (4) 57 lost toWoodend 60— C. Jones 17 lost toA.Jewell 18, P. Wellington 20 lost to T. Sturt 24, F. Perich 20 dT White 18; Lancefield 45 lost to Romsey 68 —K.Webb 13lost to J. Hemming 28, L. Howlett14lost to R. Kozulins 23, B.West 18dK Day17.
Coachback
Last week the Bendigo Football Netball League announced it had re-appointed Gisborne'sTarryn Rymer as coach of the BFNL Open representative netball team for 2025. The league said Rymer 's leadership and dedication were instrumental to the team in 2024.
Jayden Cowling and Stephanie Freemantle will serveasassistant coaches.
Earlier this month the league appointed Simon Rosa as senior coach for BFNL's football program for next season. Described as a'football legend', Rosahas huge experience in playing and coaching football.
He has played with Golden Square, Bendigo Bombers and Peel Thunder in the WAFL.
Kyneton Football Netball Club is seeking anew senior women’s football director.
Happy trio (from left) Kyneton’s Graham Edwards, Glen Gascoyne and Greg Podesta after their regional victory.