Midland Express Tuesday 3 September 2024

TIME TO ENROL for 2025

Patdoesusproud

AmyHume

Romseyarcher PatrickFrenchdelivered atremendous performance in tough condition against tough competitorsathis first Paralympic Games.

He represented Australia in the men’spara-archery compound open 1/16 elimination round on Saturday against Indonesia’sKen Swagumilang.

The tightlycontested matchplayedout in torrential rain and Frenchnarrowly missed advancement with ascore of 138-140.

Swagumilang entered the matchwitha12thplace ranking. Frenchhad astrong starttothe ranking round and was in the top four forthe first half before dropping to rank 21.

Speaking to Express on Sunday, Frenchsaidhe was proud of his performance despite the challenging weather

"The conditions were horrendous. The rain drops were about the sizeof10to20cent pieces. Iwas saturated all the waythrough and there were winds," he said.

"I shot well. All of my shots felt good.A lot landed in the middle and that's all Ican do."

Frenchhas alreadytaken notes on areas to improveashesetshis sights on future competition.

"Weshoot through magnification, whichisaffected by howthe light comes into your eye,"he explained.

"My sight was wet the whole time,then forthe last shots Iwiped the water out of my eye. It changed my perception.

"That's just howitworks in this sport. There's no second chance.I've learnt alot from my experience nowI'm just looking to building on that and gaining more experience

"I've shot with Kenanumber of times on the international circuit and I'm glad to have lost to him."

Frenchsaidhewas also proud of his fellowAussie teammates and emphasised the importance of supporting them as theycontinue their campaign.

He thanked friends, family, the Macedon Ranges community and beyond fortheir supportthroughout his journey.

Frenchwill continue training as soon he returns home,with Open Nationals to be held at Canberra in October.Heisalreadythinking ahead to the next Paralympics in Los Angeles 2028.

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Levy to impacttourism, but boost housing

Amy Hume

MacedonRanges accommodation providers are nervously awaiting the outcome of major changes to their industry and expect tourism to also take ahit Short stay rentals will becomemore costly from January next year following the Short Stay Levy Bill introducedtoParliament last week.

The legislation introducesa 7.5 per cent levy on short stay accommodation bookings (such as Airbnb and Stayz), with the revenue to support social and affordable housing.

Minister for Housing Harriet Shing said the policy wouldencourage change to how housing was made available.

“The demand for housing has never been greater around Australia, and the Victorian short stay levy will support the delivery of more social housing and encourage more people to use their properties forpermanent rental accommodation across the state," she said.

Expected to raise about $60 million a year, the revenue will go to Homes Victoria to support the building and maintenance of social and affordable housing –with25 per cent of fundstobeinvested in regional Victoria.

In Victoria, there are about 63,000 short stay accommodation places– with nearly half of these in regional Victoria. Almost 50,000 of those places are entire homes which are not available for long-term rental, according to theVictorian Government.

INDUSTRY TO SUFFER?

MacedonRanges Accommodation Association members fear the levy could drive people out of theindustry and impact tourism, one of the region's strongest industries.

"It will definitely drive some of the fringe providers out of the industry. We would expect amove awayfromthe large providers in the industry such as Airbnb," MRAA president MarielSloan said.

"We would expect pushbackfromour customer base in an industry that is already struggling to attract bookings because of current economic climate.

"As the only state in the nation levying this tax, we expect some loss of business interstate."

MRAA represents the needs of regional accommodation providers of all kinds across the shire where it estimates there are more than 150 short stay operators.

Ms Sloan said the bill was "a blunt instrument that lacks an understanding of the industryoutsideofMelbourne and the Mornington Peninsula"

"It doesnot address some of the fundamental issues facing short stay accommodation(STA)inthe Macedon Ranges," shesaid

"The Macedon RangesSTA providers are predominantly made up of accommodation providers whoare notpermitted by local government bylaw to offerlong-term accommodation."

Ms Sloan said STA operators were still trying to understand how the levy would apply and most had already beguntaking bookingsfor next year.

DETAILS SOON

Astate government spokesperson told the Express the State Revenue Office would provide detailed guidance materials soon after thepassage of legislation.

"We know our tourism operators are the lifeblood of so many communities, that's why we're investing in experiences, attractions and partnerships that continue to draw people to townships across our region," the spokesperson said.

"We have consulted extensivelywith arange of stakeholders overthe last 12 months, including local councils, the short stay industry andthe tourism sector to get the balance right for communitiesacross Victoria."

The levy willnot apply to ahomeowner leasing outall or part of their principal place of residence for ashort stay, nortoa temporary stay when ahomeowner goes on holiday

Commercial accommodation is exempt andthe levy willonlyapply to stays less than 28 days.

Transitional arrangements will bein place, and the levy will not apply to bookings made before January 2025.

While the changes have created some uncertainty for accommodation operators, and tourism more broadly, itaims to direct funding to social and affordable housing.

RANGES' HOUSING GRIEF

Victoria's housing crisis is undisputed

Gambling policy on pause

Kyneton Bowling Club must wait until mid-September for the outcome of Macedon Ranges Shire Council'sGambling Harm Minimisation Policy,which will determine its future.

The policy threatens to shut down KBC’s pokies, raising uncertainty about the club’s future sustainability as it would prevent any form of gambling at council-owned or managed sites. It introduces aseries of changes to council'sapproach to gambling in general.

Last week, councillors engaged in passionate debate resulting in a5-3 vote in favour of changes to the policy said to "soften" its impact on the bowling club.

However,a rescission motion lodged shortly after the meeting means the matter is not yet at rest. Councillors will consider the rescission motion on September 16.

Until then, both councillors and the bowling club have last Wednesday'smeeting to digest.

Cr Jennifer Anderson moved the officer's recommendation to adopt the policy,which made clear the removal of EGMs from council owned/managed sites was not negotiable.

"Weare wanting to work with the club to do this, our staffwill make sure there is a timeframe. It'snot that tomorrow,suddenly there will be no EGMs," she said.

The bowling club is the only EGM operator in the shire currently leasing acouncil site. It has relied on the income of EGMs since 1995 but its lease with council is up for renewal in 2027.

and Macedon Ranges is not immunetoits challenges.

Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health offers ahousing support service and and is an access point for homelessnessservices in theshire.

Cobaw's KateWeston, housing support team leader,said the organisation had workedwith more than 220 adults and young people in the past year who were seeking housing assistance.

"This couldbebecause they are homeless, or at risk of becoming homeless," she said.

"It is getting harder forpeople as waitlists for publichousing arelonger. Private rentals are now unaffordableinour region. "There are less options for crisis accommodation."

The profile of people seeking assistance is changing too.

"More families and older people, especially single women, are presenting as being at risk from becoming homeless," Ms Weston said.

"We have hadanincrease of women and children fleeing domestic violence. We are seeingmorepeople being impacted by the cost of livingcrisis,with working families needing support.

"More investment properties are being sold as an impact of higher mortgage rates and land taxes, which means tenants are beinggiven notices to vacate or rents are increased to unaffordable levels."

RENTING STRUGGLE

Ms Weston said securing arental property wasbecoming increasingly more difficult for people.

"Rental prices havegone up significantly in the last couple of years and many of our towns haverental affordability index scores lower than the regional average.

"There are only asmall numberofpublic housing properties in the Macedon Ranges, all with long-termtenants. There hasbeen very littlechange in the number of public housing homes over the past few years with limited vacancies each year.

"The Macedon Rangeshas more than 1100 people on the Victorian Housing Register, with around 680 being priority rated."

How much each regional area will benefit from the levy is unknown at thisstage.The levy will apply from January 1next year.

While Cr Annette Death and Rob Guthrie also signalled support for the officer's recommendation, Cr Mark Ridgeway foreshadowed amotion that he said would "give the bowling club some latitude".

He said the community felt the bowling club should have some sort of exemption and he did not believe in was council'srole "to dictate how an organisation should conduct its business".

His motion removed those ties between EGMs and the lease, and made it the responsibility of the council to 'encourage' the bowling club to make adecision to divest itself of EGMs and also to help find asolution.

However,both Anderson and Death flagged concern over the lack of timeframe and clear action. Cr Death said the alternate motion had "no teeth".

"I think it'sdisheartening and disappointing," she said.

"The wording in this motion does not hold any obligation to the Kyneton Bowling Club."

Cr Anderson argued the alternate motion had notimeframe "so the club could do nothing".

When put to the vote, Cr Ridgeway's alternate motion won favour 5-3. Adivision recorded councillors councillors in favour were Pearce, Neil, Ridgeway,Walker and West.Those against were Crs Anderson, Death and Guthrie. Cr Domonic Bonanno was not present at the meeting. The rescission motion will considered at the council's September 16meeting.

Twilight market to return

Kyneton High School students are seeking stallholders and contributions for their upcoming Twilight Market and Show nShine fundraiser

The event will be held at the school grounds on October 11 from 5pm to 8pm with avariety of food vendors/stalls, general stalls, live music, entertainment, sausage sizzle, and, of course, vehicles for the show and shine.

Students aim to attract 1000 market-goers with atarget of 50 stalls and 50 vehicles. They are also currently approaching local businesses to contribute to asilent auction and raffle.

The event returns following the success of 2022'sfundraiser, which raised just over $6000 for the school'sVCAL program.

Just like then, students have been involved with planning this year's event every step of the way including set-up, promotion and marketing, organisation and seeking donations.

This year,the team behind the scenes is the year 12 VCE-VM (formerly VCAL) Personal Development Skills class.

Major sponsors of the event are Rotary and Sign Obsession.

Anyone seeking to be part of the twilight market and show and shine is encouraged to contact Gareth at the school via email: twilightnight@ kynetonhigh.vic.edu.au

Refugeetoresearchfellow

Award-winning writer to speak at conference

During his six-year imprisonment on Manus Island, amobile phone was Behrouz Boochani’s most valued possession. It kept him in touch with the outside world and his own mental wellbeing. And it enabled him to write amemoir of life on the island –a literary tour de force that would earn him international renown.

Ajournalistand opponent of Iran’s oppressive theocracy, Boochani was forced into hiding when the offices of his magazine, Werya, were raided by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard. After three months on the run, he fled his homeland and made his way overland to Indonesia. Two months later, along with 60 others on aboat making aperilous crossing of the Timor Strait, he was intercepted by the Australian Navy. He and his fellow asylum-seekers were detained on Christmas Island before being transferred to Manus.

It was while on Manus that he was, with access to his mobile phone, able to establish contact with journalists and advocacy groups overseas. He filed reports on the abuses occurring on the island. These reports would form the basis of his prison memoir, No Friend But The Mountains.Published by Picador in 2018, with a foreword by Richard Flanagan, this masterful account would win both the Victorian Prize for Literature and the Victorian Premier’s Prize for Nonfiction. It was described by judges of the New South Wales Premier’s Literary Awards as ‘an outstanding work of literature in its own right…remarkable for the circumstances of its production…(and)… compelling and shocking content’.

Boochani’s arrival on Christmas Island was ill-timed. He missed, by only ahandful of days, adeadline imposed by the Rudd government and was denied the opportunity to settle here. But Australia’s loss was New Zealand’s gain. In July 2020, Behrouz Boochani was granted refugee status by the New Zealand government. He is now a research fellow at the University of Canterbury.

With hisnew-found legal status, Behrouz Boochani is at last allowed to set foot on our shores. He will appear as keynote speaker at the opening night of the Rural Australians for Refugees 2024 national conference to be held at the Kyneton Town Hall on Friday October 11.

This exciting event, many months in the planning, will be compered by former ABC presenter Derek Guille and includes an appearance by former UNHCR Commissioner Gillian Triggs. Organisers expect tickets to be in great demand and urge anyone interested to book early.

Tickets are available at www.mrsc.vic.gov.au/rar

Tampered Heads wins

Battle of the Bands!

We’reexcited to announcethe winner of Battle of the Bands 2024 is Tampered Heads!

Morethan 200 people attended the event at Castlemaine’s TheatreRoyal to watchseven young bands and solo artists battle it out forthe winning title

Rock group Tampered Heads wonthe $500 firstprize with all original, self-composed material.

Tampered Heads member Rileysaid: “Battle of the Bands is always abig event thatyou arekeen to get ready for. It’s essentially the proving ground foryoung musicians and is fairly competitive.”

Congratulations to thewinners of Battle of the Bands 2024:

Firstprize: Tampered Heads

Second prize: Tongue &Cheek

Thirdprize: TheNoisyMiners tied with duo Thea &Frieda

Read moreabout the eventat mountalexander.vic.gov.au/News

(03) 5471 1700

Woodend Community Bags has donated 200 bags to the Macedon Ranges Rural Australians for Refugees. These will be delegate ‘satchels’ at the forthcoming National RAR Conference from October 11-13.

“These beautiful, locally crafted fabric bags are assured of alife beyond the usual conference satchel,” said Jean Ker Walsh, chair ofMRRAR. “Weare very grateful to the Woodend Community Bags group for their practical support.”

Behrouz Boochani. Photo: Hoda Afshar

Amy Hume

Woodend Soccer Club is campaigning for amulti-purpose synthetic soccer pitch for the sport to grow in Woodend.

The soccer club relaunched as the Woodend Eagles in May with massive support from the community but president Alistair Fletcher said there were few options for training on home turf.

"For the past 10 years, local coaches and parents have been trying to get a soccer club going in Woodend but despite abrief successful period for the Woodend Dragons it'snever really grown beyond the Mini Roos program for younger kids," he said.

"The two footy ovals are saturated with footy and cricket throughout their respective seasons. No rectangular pitches suitable for sports like soccer,rugby or hockey are available in Woodend."

Mr Fletcher said grounds used for soccer at Gisborne and Kyneton had also been strained due to the sports popularity or struggled in poor weather with flooding.

Woodend'seager junior players began training with support from Woodend Primary School but the club quickly outgrew the space and relocated to Buffalo Stadium'sfootball oval during abrief window of availability

There are currently more than 100 boys and girls, aged four to 11 years, building their skills each Saturday but the club has along-term plan to develop the Woodend Eagles into along-term community club catering for all ages and skills.

"We're at the point where we just need apitch," Mr Fletcher said.

"Weaim to set up junior training during the week and hopefully at the end of next year we will be ready to join one of

Soccerclub’spitch forreserve Soccer club’s pitch

the competitive regional leagues. At the moment we're really trying to build the foundation of the club but it'shard to do that when you don't have facilities.

"Soccer is Australia’sfastest growing sport, especially with the success of the Matildas. We have three primary schools in Woodend with girls and boys who want to play,but at the moment the kids have to travel to other towns to train, which many parents say just isn’t sustainable, especially if their siblings play other sports as well."

The club presented both electronic and paper petitions for aWoodend multi sports

pitch to the Macedon Ranges Shire Council last week.

It comes as the council prepares for future planning of Woodend Racecourse Reserve with an ‘issues and opportunities paper’, open for community feedback until September 5.

The paper includes two potential concepts that either keep limited equestrian facilities on the site, or relocate them elsewhere.

Woodend Soccer Club considers the racecourse reserve agood option for a pitch due to its proximity to current sport-

ing facilities at Buffalo Stadium. The club, however,also supports needs of Woodend'swider sporting community

Asoccer pitch should meet Football Victoria'sminimum current standards for junior competition but could also be suitable for arange ofother sports including rugby and hockey.The club is also seeking storage,and shelter for spectators, coaches and players.

Macedon Ranges Shire Council will prepare areport in response tothe petitions, to bepresented at the September 16 council meeting.

Baco workersstrike

Jade Jungwirth

More than 80 Australian Manufacturing Worker's Union and Electrical Trades Union members working at Don KR Castlemaine began strike action last Thursday.

ETU strike organiser Aaron Douglas told the Express that wage negotiations with the company over the past few months had been unsuccessful.

"We put together alog of claims that were intended to maintain job security and protect the integrity of the trades and the qualifications that people have gotten through their apprenticeships," Mr Douglas said.

"The last strike with the company was six years ago, and there was arenegotiation three years ago, which was just after COVID.

"The business was going through ahardpatch at the time and as aresult, the members here took avery, very small wage increase, because they identified that the company wasn't in agreat position. However, that has put them well behind, with a12-13 per cent disparity."

Mr Douglas said the group of employees were trying to bridge that gap, particularly given the cost-of-living crisis.

Despite being offered awageincrease, the union members were not satisfied with the negotiations and chose to take industrial action, starting with an indefinite ban on overtime, call-back and use of electronic device.

"I met with the members yesterday afternoon and they voted almost unanimously to withdraw their labour," Mr Douglas said.

"When we started negotiations, they (Don KR) came out with their log of claims, and in our opinion they had a very aggressive log, they were thinking to reduce existing entitlements and, credit where credit's due, they did offer a wage increase, but in the opinion of the members, it is not enough to bridge the gap we're trying to bridge.

"We're hoping it doesn't have to take too long. We're hoping to have ameaningful conversation that gets us somewhere."

Glen Burns, an electrician at Don KR for the past 14

years, told the Express that at the age of 51, he had never been on strike before.

"It's unfortunate that it's come to this," he said.

"This is being driven by the cost of living. The last Enterprise Bargaining Agreement we had here, the world was adifferent place. We didn't ask for anything really and we got nothing either. We were fine with that, because everyone was unsure three years ago, so we came to that agreement, but in real terms, this EBA agreement means we've fallen behind.

"This is not easy. No one can afford to go on strike, plain and simple. It is abig deal. Ineed to feed my family."

Don Smallgoods told the Express they were in new EBA negotiations with the Australian Manufacturing Workers' Union and the Communications, Electrical, Electronic, Energy, Information, Postal, Plumbing and Allied Services Union of Australia for its Castlemaine workforce.

"While the process has been protracted at times, the business remains committed to reaching an agreement that provides apositiveoutcome for all parties," they said.

DonKRCastlemaine workersonstrike last Thursday.

Free forum talks tenants’ rights

Tenants, landlords and real estate professionals are invited to join afreeTenants' Rights Forum in Castlemaine aimed at educating the community about tenants' rights and available support services.

Organised by My Home Network’sTenants’ Rights Working Group, the forum will feature adiverse lineup of speakers, including local tenants sharing their own experiences, Residential Tenancy Commissioner Dr Heather Holst, Leah Slattery from ARC Justice, and Harry Millward from the Renters and Housing Union.

The event will also include aQ&A session, providing attendees with the opportunity to raise issues and concerns. These will be compiled and shared with Consumer Affairs as part of the state government'snew task force aimed at improving landlord and real estate accountability

"Werecognise that many tenants are unaware of their rights and may feel vulnerable in their rental situations," working group spokesperson Liz Scanlon said.

"Our goal is to enhance local support for tenants and ensure they know they are not alone.

"Recent updates to the Victorian State Tenancy Act in 2021, and the state government’srecent consultation on minimum energy efficiency standards for rentals, highlight the need for clear communication and understanding.

"Wewant to ensure everyone is informed and on the same page.”

With 1260 rental properties in Mount Alexander Shire, ashortfall of 600 social housing units, and 87 per cent of tenants struggling with affordability,the need for action is urgent.

“Weare also focused on increasing affordable rental options by encouraging owners of the 1000 vacant dwellings in the shire to offer them as affordable rentals –defined as less than 25 per cent of atenant’sincome,” working group spokesperson Kaz Neilson said.

The forum will take place at the Northern Arts Hotel, 359 Barker Street, Castlemaine, on Wednesday,September 11 from 6pm for a6.30pm start until 8pm.

My Home Network, auspiced by Dhelkaya Health, comprises dedicated community members, locals with lived experience of the housing crisis, and representatives from local housing initiatives, community organisations, and government bodies. Learn more about My Home Network’swork at dhelkayahealth.org.au/my-home-network.

For more information and to register for the forum, contact Kaz at cneilson@castlemainehealth.org.au

Auxiliaryseeks newmembers

Vision Australia's Kyneton auxiliary is calling for new members to boost fundraising efforts.

Vision Australia was formerly the Royal Australian Institute for the Blind until amalgamation in 2004 of several blind organisations, which then operated under the name of Vision Australia. Seeing Eyes Dogs is also under this banner.

The RVIB auxiliary in Kyneton was formed on October 15, 1929, and will be 94 years old this October.

Kyneton has been the highest country town fundraiser for Vision Australia for several years, but due to the global pandemic, ageing members and loss of members, more support is needed.

Previous successful fundraising efforts include an annual lunch, wood raffles, sausage sizzles, auctions, calendar sales, door-knocks and collections.

Current fundraisers include an auction, raffles and fete –with this year's fete scheduled for October 19.

Members meet three times ayear. New members are encouraged to join.

Contact Kathy Muldowney on 0418 145 847 or Jean Hedington on 0409 176 949.

My Home Network’s Tenants’ Rights Working Group members (L to R): Frankie Nugent, Kaz Neilson, Wade Roberts and Liz Scanlon (absent Deborah Pach).

Morethanjustsconesand tea

Joanna Beard

Local Country Women’sAssociation of Victoria branches are on the lookout for new members, but first, they want to set the story straight about who they are and what they do.

Established in 1928, the CWAofVic Inc. was formed to support and connect rural women and children experiencing isolation and disadvantage.

Since those early days, the association has become known for their advocacy,fundraising, and of course, their much-loved baking stalls.

But what does it mean to be amember of the CWAintoday’sworld?

Victorian CWAstate vice-president and founder of the Kyneton Twilighters, Peg Higginbottom, said it was about “caring, empowering and contributing”.

“The CWAofVic Inc. has always been vision inspired and purpose driven,” Ms Higginbottom said.

“Weare avery strong women’sadvocacy organisation and we care about our community,wecare about women, children and families.”

Ms Higginbottom said the association was about “much more than just scones,” though they were agoodway to draw people in.

“People think we’re all about scones, and well, scones are agreat conversation starter,” she said.

“Wewant to help to empower women and we want to make acontribution to our communities.

“For example, the three pillars we’re looking at this year are homelessness, food security and youth engagement.”

There are 13 CWAofVic Inc. branches in the Macedon Ranges area, with

some meeting during the day and others meeting at night to suit different schedules.

Sharon McNamara-Youl, president and treasurer of the Kyneton Twilighters, doesn’t want misconceptions about the association to prevent new members from joining.

“The important thing is you don’t have to be good at anything in particular to be amember.People think they need to be bakers or craftspeople to join, but that’s not true at all,” she said.

“All you need to be amember of the CWAofVic Inc. is to be awoman, or identify as awoman and be anice person. That’sit.”

Ms McNamara-Youl said acommitment to alocal branch involved attending the monthly meetings, raising funds for the community and exchanging skills with other members.

“The friendship and the connection to agroup, and therefore to the broader community,isdefinitely the main reason we find our members join us,” she said.

“If you’re driven by social justice, there’sarole for you. If you like making cakes, there’salso arolefor you.”

As forthe association’sfuture, Ms McNamara-Youl said young people are encouraged to join.

“We’re not all 70 years old with white hair and making scones, there’s definitely younger generations involved too.”

“Yes, Ithink the future is bright.” Youcan visit cwaofvic.org.au to find out more about joining alocal branch.

Are your ds living in a revolving around their That’s a good thing.

eyour kids livingina world olvingaroundtheir passions? at’s agoodthing.

It’s why the VCE’s new Major creates worlds where can be explored.

whythe VCE’snew Vocational jorcreates worldswhere passions nbeexplored.

From agriculture to construction, health to energy. Whatever world our kids are into, there’s a program to they’ll to a job most

om agriculturetoconstruction, alth to clean energy.Whatever rld ourkids areinto, there’sa VCE ogram to help develop the skills ey’ll need to land ajob in Australia’s st in-demand industries.

Kyneton Twilighters (left to right): Caroline Sharpe, Katie Matthews, Sarah McAdie, branch president/treasurer Sharon McNamara-Youl, state vice-president Peg Higginbottom, and board and Macedon branch member Amanda Millar.

Could yourun pubtopub?

Amy Hume

When Mitch Docker retired from competitive road cycling, his love for the sport and outdoor recreation never left him.

After moving to Lancefield and discovering all that the Macedon Ranges had to offer, he was determined to help position it as a"premium outdoor lifestyle and cycling destination".

"I want to show people how good the Macedon Ranges is for riding and exercising in general. It's so underestimated," he told the Express

"The great thing I've always loved about exercising my whole life is that feeling that comes with it. And it's something everyone can be involved in. Ireallywanted to make an event that incorporated the things I enjoy and make it something unique for the area."

Mitch was aformer professional cyclist, who raced at the top European level of the sport in the World Tour from 2009 until 2021.

During his career, he was arespected one-day and classics rider, and ahighly regarded teammate on some of the sport’s biggest teams including Skil-Shimano, Orica-GreenEDGE and EFEducation First Pro Team.

He was living in Europe for 15 years between Spain and Belgium before retiring from racing and returning to Australia. He hosts apodcast, Life on the Peloton.

Since moving to Lancefield, he has already connected with many fellow local cyclists and runners keen to see more opportunities for associated local events.

Mitch helped get the Lanny Run Club off the ground in Lancefield earlier this year and explored ideas for something more.

TWO NEW EVENTS

He developed aplan for amulti-day combined cycling and running event with afestival atmosphere for October 12-13 dubbed The Dirty Docker.

Participants can camp at Lancefield Park, enjoy entertainment and socialising as well as 115km, 80km and 40km gravel cycling events, and Cyclo-Cross event with off-road course over grass, mud, sand and obstacles.

Soon after, Pub to Pub was born from a conversation with local publican Alex Gorman who was interested in acommunity event that incorporated both 1860 Romsey and The Lancefield Hotel.

First on the calendar, Pub to Pub has a strong focus on community level participation with three runs planned between the two pubs incorporating the Federation Trail.

Runs are a1.5km Junior Bolt for those aged two to 14 years, a7.5km Pub to Pub run, and The Pub to Pub to Pub 15km run.

The Romsey to Lancefield Pub to Pub event will be held on Sunday, September 15, starting from 8am.

Full details on both events, and how to register, are available via: lifeinthepeloton.com

Childcare worker under investigation

Parents with children enrolled at achildcare centre in Kyneton were shocked to discover aworker at the centre was under investigation for allegedly falsifying their qualifications to gain employment.

The worker,formerly employed at independent childcare provider Embracia, has since been dismissed, with the centre'smanagement notifying parents of the incident via a letter last week.

"Wehave recently identified that an ex-employee allegedly may have provided fraudulent qualifications when gaining employment," the directors said.

"Wetake this matter very seriously and have already reported it to the Department of Education and Victoria Police.

"There is not any evidence or information of the person

acting inappropriately so it remains an investigation of the alleged qualification fraud.

"Wecan confirm that the person in question did have a current Working with Children Check and passed the police check. "Weinvestigated the person’squalifications, and the Registered Training Organisation has provided information that alleges the qualifications may be fraudulent, which is why we have reported this to the authorities.

"Tocontinue our duty of care and ensuring our strong risk management strategies, we are in the process of reviewing all of processes to ascertain how this occurred and for the purpose of continuous improvement."

Several parents have expressed their anger over not being told whether the employee had looked after their children.

any

feeling "burnt" by the situation.

"You presume that everyone there is qualified to educate and nurture your child and other children," he told media last week.

ADepartment ofEducation spokesperson said the early childhood regulator was aware of an allegation reported by aservice in Kyneton.“As this matter is under investigation, we are unable to comment further,” the spokesperson said. Investigations by the department’searly childhood regulator will determine whether any regulations have been breached by the approved provider and the service. Further action will be considered once the investigations are complete.

Retired competitive cyclist Mitch Docker is introducing the Pub to Pub to Lancefield and Romsey. He is pictured with local publican Alex Gorman.

Travis Bruni'sdaughter attends the childcare centre. He said

parent who had achild at the centre was probably

Menopause in the spotlight

Due to popular demand, Dhelkaya Health community health nurse Bron Grieve is thrilled to announce her presentation, 'Menopause and Perimenopause: More Than Just Hot Flushes and Sweats' will feature once again as part of Women’sHealth Week.

The event will take place at the Castlemaine Library this Thursday,September 5.

In this insightful talk, Bron will delve into the complexities of perimenopause and menopause, offering the latest information and practical solutions for managing symptoms.

With her passionate approach, Bron aims to both inform and inspire attendees to embrace this transformative stage of life with greater understanding.

Bron’sprevious presentation on this topic was met with overwhelming enthusiasm with about 100 women packing the event, highlighting the need for continued education and discussion.

Bron says she is eager to engage with the community once more and encourage an open dialogue about these important health issues.

"Attendees can expect acomprehensive exploration of menopause and perimenopause, along with aQ&A session to address personal queries. Resources will also be available to take home, ensuring everyone leaves with awell-rounded understanding and practical tools for their menopause journey," Bron says.

Attendees are asked to arrive at 5.15pm for a5.30pm start. The library is accessed offMechanics Lane, Castlemaine. The event is free but bookings are required via goldfieldslibraries.com

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and be part of ameaningful conversation about menopause and perimenopause.

GraceAgriFutures national runner-up

Mia Mia'sGrace Larson has been named national runner-up for the 2024 Agrifutures Rural Women’sAward.

Grace was Victoria'sstate winner earlier this year for her work in health education to assist parents in rural and remote communities as co-founder of The Sisterhood Project.

She was honoured as runner-up for the national award that was announced at Parliament House in Canberra in August and was awarded a$15,000 Westpac prize to boost her project.

Grace said the funds would go towards building an app that would assist parents rural and remote communities in emergency response for their children.

“Our charity exists because there is an unacceptable gap in healthcare education. If any one of us could prevent achild’s death, we would. That’swhatdrives us at The Sisterhood Project,” Grace said.

“I have achain of links that support me that have made the success of The Sisterhood Project possible. Iamvery grateful to have this incredible support.”

The Sisterhood Project is not-for-profit and run entirely by volunteers and its board comprises all women and mothers.

To support The Sisterhood Project, visit: thesisterhoodproject.com.au

Grace Larson is pictured with her award (third from right) withnational winnerTanya Egerton from theNorthern Territory.

Meetthe 2024festivalroyal family

TheKyneton Daffodil and Arts Festival committee has announceed its Senior and Junior Royals for this year’sevent. Each of these individuals has demonstrated incredible dedication and spirit, making them truly deserving of their royal titles.

EmilyDellios

Emily is an exceptional leader in the junior sporting community of Kyneton. She volunteers tirelessly at both the basketball and football clubs and currently serves as the head of junior football for the Kyneton Junior Football Club. Emily’scommitment extends beyond sports, as she actively supports the Parents and Friends group at Our Lady of the Rosary Primary School. Her passion for fostering youth development in our town is truly inspiring!

Steve Reeves

Steve is acherished member of our community and asteadfast supporter of the festival. He is known for his kindness, generosity,and strong moral compass, always bringing 100 per cent effort and asense of fun to everything he does. Steve leads by example, teaching through his actions and truly embodying the spirit of what it means to be a great local. We areproud to honor him as one of our Senior Royals.

SunnyRedpath

Sunny lights up every room with her positivity and enthusiasm! Ashining example of kindness and joy,she embraces each day with asmile and inspires those around her

Handari Kirk

Handari is awonderful role model, always giving his best in every situation. He doesn’t

seek recognition, but his dedication and hard work are noticed by all. Handari truly exemplifies what it means to lead by example.

Olivia Garrigan

Olivia consistently shows respect and responsibility,caring for both her peers and school resources. Her persistence and curiosity drive her to explore new concepts, and her warm presence contributes greatly to the positive classroom atmosphere.

Elwood Williams

Elwood is akind and empathetic student, consistently supporting his peers and fostering an inclusive, positive classroom environment. His enthusiasm and curiosity make learning contagious and creates avibrant learning atmosphere.

Congratulations to the 2024 royal family on your contributions to the community!

CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS

The festival committee is looking for volunteers to help line the roadway during the Grand Parade, which will beheld on Sunday September 15.

If you have acurrent working with children’s check and would be available to assist, the committee would love to hear from you.

Volunteers will be meeting at the Kyneton Showgrounds at 11.30am on Sunday September 15, and will be given ahigh viz vest and instructions as to how to assist with the parade flow and crowd management on the day

If you are able to assist, email the treasurer kdaaf@gmail.com, including acopy ofyour Working with Children Certificate and your mobile number by Tuesday September 10.

Gardens fest AGM

The committee of the much-loved Castlemaine and District Festival of Gardens will hold their Annual General Meeting on Thursday September 12 at 6.30pm in the Garden Room at Buda Historic Home and Garden, Castlemaine.

Guest speaker at the event is John Patrick, patron of the festival, familiar to many as apresenter on radio and television. John has also written extensively on gardens throughout the world, including articles in Vogue Living and The Australian Garden Journal,and is author of numerous gardening-related books.

John will speak of his recent visit to Cordoba in southern Spain, where he attended the Cordoba Patio Festival, which dates back to 1921.

“While the Castlemaine Festival of Gardens may not have quite the history of that in Cordoba, it is just as enthusiastically organised and presented,” John said.

“Visitors will inevitably gain inspiration and ideas for their own plot, benefit too from endless garden chatter and simply relax in the way that only gardens can achieve.”

As well as John’stalk, thefestival committee will provide an update and carry out the tasks required at an AGM. This will be followed by refreshments and achance to mingle. And if you’re keen to contribute, don’t be shy –make yourself known to acommittee member

All are welcome to attend and no RSVP is required.

The Castlemaine and District Festival of Gardens is avolunteer-run biennial event and will take place from Saturday November 2toSunday November 10.

The program booklet is available for purchase online and at the Castlemaine Visitor Information Centre from mid-September.For more information visit www festivalofgardens.org.

Re-set for the gardens

The Friends of the Kyneton Botanic Gardens held their 2024 Annual General Meeting last Tuesday at Little Swallow Cafe, signifying are-set for the friends group following several years of Covid-related hiatus.

Thirty-six members attended the meeting along with Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s West Ward councillors to show their support.

Anew committee was elected with Michael Warner stepping into the role of president. Mr Warner spoke of arenewed commitment to strong working relationships with the council and areinvigorated plan to implement the key elements of the 2011 Master Plan for the gardens.

Significant work has already been undertaken in the gardens this year by MRSC staffwith repairs to pathways and drainage, removal of old and overgrown plants and, working closely with the friends group at monthly working bees, weeding and re-planting in several key areas, among the completed works.

In addition, the Members Bulb Planting Day in May saw acompletemakeover of the area along the Clowes Street boundary close to the front entrance gates.

Long-term Friends of the Kyneton Botanic

Gardens committee members and office bearers, LynBayley and Mal Closter,were presented with life memberships in recognition of their significant commitment to the work of the group over many years.

Both Lynand Mal joined the friends group at itsbeginning in 2005 and have been actively involved since, most recently as president and treasurer

One of the friends group’skey goals is to elevate the visitor experience of the gardens and enhance their use both by tourists and the local community.This will begin on September 6and continue on September 13 as part of the Kyneton Daffodil and Arts Festival, with atour of the Kyneton Botanic Gardens conducted by Dr Peter May and Barry Murphy,asthe first stop on the festival’sexclusive bus tours of open gardens.

The tours will begin from the Kyneton railway station at 10.15am. It is hoped that tours of the gardens by members of the Friends of the Kyneton Botanic Gardens will become a regular feature in the near future.

The next working bee for FKBG members will be in the gardens on Tuesday,September 24, at 9.30am in front of the Gardener’s Cottage.

John Patrick.

TamperedHeads takestitle

Mount Alexander Shire Council is excited to announce the winner of Battle of the Bands 2024, Tampered Heads.

More than 200 people attended Battle of the Bands last month at Castlemaine’s Theatre Royal to watch seven young bands and solo artists battle it out for the winning title.

The event gives young musicians aged 12-21 an opportunity to perform in asupportive and safe environment.

Rock group Tampered Heads won the $500 first prize with all original, selfcomposed material.

Tampered Heads member Izak said that he and Riley formed their band earlier this year after discovering they

worked best as aduo.

“My highlight of Battle of the Bands 2024 was watching my friends and people Ican recognise from school in the light as performers. It'sreally something to see with the joy of performing music for people you barely know," Izak said.

“Wethink the best advice to give other young musicians is to just do it, it'sthe most funthing ever to get up on astage and play your music out to an audience. It'sunderstandably hard to get out there in front of your youth and perform but it was the best 15 minutes of our lives.”

Band member Riley said Battle of the Bands is always abig event that you are keen to get ready for

"It’sessentially the proving ground for young musicians and is fairly competitive."

Congratulations to the winners of Battle of the Bands 2024 –first prize: Tampered Heads, second prize: Tongue and Cheek and third prize: The Noisy Miners tied with duo Thea and Frieda.

The competition was organised by council’sFReeZACommittee, Eight Metre Speaker.FReeZA is aVictorian Government funded program that supports music and cultural events run by,and for,young people aged 12-25 years. All events are fully supervised, accessible, and alcohol, drug and smoke free.

Bonfire night to celebrate spring

Baynton Sidonia Landcare group is celebrating spring!

Committee member John O’Sullivan has been out and about sprucing up Baynton Sidonia Landcare boundary signs from the Burke and Wills track outside Rowanston winery to bouldercountry near Emu Flat.

Baynton Sidonia’scelebration of spring continues with abonfire night and barbecue, to which all are invited. It will be on Saturday September 14 from 5pm, at Hawthorn Farm, 143 Greens Lane, Baynton.

There will be signs out on the lane so bonfire enthusiasts know where to go. Meat and veggie burgers are provided, but participants are asked to bring something tosit on, something todrink and asaladto share. Only in the event of very inclement weather will the bonfire and barbecue be cancelled. If you are in any doubt, contact Belinda on 0427 136 616.

It’stime to catch the queen

Spring is the time to catch the queen wasp before she makes anestusing asimple, environmentally friendly,method.

Use a1.25 litre soft drink bottle with three 10mm holes, 100mmfrom the bottom of the bottle. Make up asolutionofeight tablespoons of honey in two cupsofboiling water with alittle pure vanilla essence. This will do four traps. Divide the bait between traps, top up with water to just below the holes, replace the cap and hang in asunny spot in the garden, near water Fruit trees with curly leaf is agood place, The bait will take aweek or two to activate. Once catching wasps, shake every few days to let bait dribble out. Keep in place until January.Strain out when full, reuse and top up bait with water –With thanks to Laurie Nicoll for his 'Laurie's Lure' recipe.

Baynton Sidonia Landcare group member, John O’Sullivan, refreshes one of the boundary signs with alick of fresh paint. Photo: Pip Elston

Battle of the Bands performers. Photo: Chevy Librio.

Council brain fade

Ann Lewis, Newham

As alife-long resident of Macedon Ranges Iammore than disappointed with the most recent council brain fade, with very little consideration for the current and past members and friends of the Woodend Pony Club and grounds, which is no more than aland grab.

With no alternative to the loss of existing grounds, if this is to go ahead, the new grounds should be iron clad with no wiggle room for those who have anything to do with the future planning of this area.

This area has been equine friendly for many,many years, beginning with the original Woodend Racecourse.

The facilities in place have been built by volunteers (who gave their time and materials free of charge) including the arena and other structures.

Iamwellaware of this situation as we were confronted by the similar situation about 15 years ago. Myself and agroup of memberswho have become life-long friends fought the same battle and Iwas elected as DC and we were successful in our campaign.

Where is your respect?

KathyHendry, Kyneton

As aformer board member of RMB Homes Kyneton, Iwas horrified to read the article 'Residents face eviction' (Midland Express, August 20).

It is outrageous that the nine residents of the RMB Flats are being rendered homeless!

Local knowledge (1 point)

1. When is this year’s Kyneton Daffodil and Arts Festival to be held?

2. Which local author penned The Knowledge Gene?

3. Where in Mount Alexander is Long Paddock Cheese based?

4. Which sporting event is making a return to Lancefield after many years? (3 points)

5. Last month Norma Hancock was the sole bidder for which iconic local store? General knowledge (1 point)

Which planet in our solar system is the closest to the sun? 7. Who directed Beetlejuice (1988) and Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (2024)?

8. The following songs all have which artist in common: Castle on the Hill, Shape of You,and The ATeam?

9. In which Harry Potter book is Luna Lovegood introduced? (3 points)

10. Which of the following are NOT included in the Paris Paralympics 2024: para taekwondo, para triathlon, wheelchair fencing, para surfing, and sitting volleyball?

These people are long-term residents of Kyneton, they are senior citizens, who have contributed to the town.

While there is no doubt that the site of the flats needs redevelopment and it is logical to consider increasing the number of independent living units, consideration and compassion MUST be shown to the current residents of the flats.

It is inhumane to cast out these people at their time of life and force them to move away from their hospital, doctors, pharmacist, friends and social connections. One resident was apparently told to move to Shepparton! The lack of affordable rentals within the Kyneton area means that they will be forced to relocate to another area.

Surely redevelopment can take place in stages leaving the current residents in place. This was what the previous board had considered.

Respect Care –where is your respect for these people? If this is how you view the elderly,then God help us. This totally goes against the ethos of Miss Ray Begg who must be turning in her grave.

What madness is this?

Maria Liew, Woodend

What madness has beset the Macedon Ranges Council as regards to off-lead dog parks.

Iwas stopped by an official and told that dogs although on an off-lead area are not allowed on the paths.

If that'sthe case, then why doesn't the council fence offthe areas so that dogs stay where they are meant to be as I'm sure my dog cannot read signs yet. This is just amoney-making stunt.

Stop takingusfor aride

Steve Power,Kyneton

It appears the local Kyneton servos have the petrol price of 194.9 rusted on. Ihaven’t seen it move for months now!

While the same distributed and brand of fuels is sold for 20c per litre cheaper in Sunbury orBendigo, these retailers are treating us like cashed up mugs

This is agreat opportunity toavoid shopping locally for fuel.

If you get achance, fill up elsewhere, save afew $$ and hope they start to get the message and stop taking us for a ride!

Take my word

John Shaw, Woodend Trumpla (formerly Tesla)–Anelectric vehicle made and driven by climate change deniers.

Lead from fueladanger

Sue and Steve Wright, Green Hill

We live out past theKyneton airfield. In trying to stop planes circuiting low over ourhouse we researched avgas, which is afuel used by light aircraft. It still contains lead

Is this thefirst timeyou have heard about this?

Lead was bannedinall otherfuels in 1996. The amountofleadinavgas varies between 1.6gm/L to 0.45gm/L.

In asubmission to aDeptofInfrastructure white paper,Ian Ryan says 65

million litresofavgas was used inAustralia last year meaning 36 tons ofleaddispersed in the environment. The EU phases outleaded avgas in 2025 but the USA, after saying that lead in avgas should go soon, has backed offand nowsays2030 forelimination.

Macedon Ranges Shire Council owns the Kyneton Airfield and thus has adutyto protectthe ratepayers. The aero club is the operator.Wehave questions about lead exposure that is affecting some people more than others. On afineweekend day we can have lowflights over us 20 to 30 times.

What are the results of lead testing on and nearthe airfield?

How much av gasisusedinKyneton annually?

What is planned to minimiseenvironmental lead contamination as avgas lead continues to be afactor?

How can the currentlow noise and circuit map (available on the Kynetonaero club website) be changed to reflect the risk and possibility of litigation fromthose currently highly exposed, i.e. those under or near circuits?

When weremapsreviewed to avoid dwellings?

In Green Hill houses have doubledin the timewehavelived here.

In conclusion, aquote from aNHMRC Paper on lead, May 2015: www.nhmrc.gov.au ›documents › reports

Reducing the amount of lead in our environment as much as possible will reduce the risk of future harm to future generations especially for children andunbornbabies

Progressiveregionalcommunities

RayPeck, Hawthorn

It was heartening to read about the Newstead community battery and solar farm ('Power flows at Newstead', Midland Express, August 27). Like Hepburn Energy just up the road, the Newstead project ticks all the boxes including generating affordable energy to power the local community

Hats offtothe innovative Newstead community who teamed with Australian energy retailer Flow Power enabling customers to receive 100 per cent renewable energy at acompetitive price –afine model for other small communities. Coupled with the state government’sCommunity Microgrid andSustainable Energy Program, it’sclear that there are now multiple pathways for progressive regional communities to take control of their own energy needs.

Thanks to the Midland Express for this timely good news story

Open letter to council and localMPs:

Name supplied, Castlemaine

It feels important that representatives of the government express empathy for the local children who in their formative teenage years were affected by the pandemic lockdowns and subsequent laws.

How must it have been for many of those students, suddenly having their education treated as asuperfluous addition to life?

Having their newly forming ideas of self and developing social connections suddenly either disappear or convert over to social media platforms.

Iknow people who were arrested and roughly put into divvy vans for not wearing amask in asparsely occupied public park, people publicly shamed for visiting their friends in the midst ofmental health breakdowns.

Callsfrom youth to mental health organisations rose dramatically as many descended into depression during the long periods of isolation. Some of these children were home alone for extraordinary amounts of time.

Somewere prescribed powerful psychiatric drugs in lieu of companionship. Some turned to illegal drug use. Some turned to risk-taking behaviour,the rise in youth crime rates is clearly linked.

The firststep is acknowledgement, to help people backontrack without shame and with respect, and to make sure that if such measures are ever introduced again they can be carried out with more understanding.

Perhaps... an offer from the government and councils to help get paid employment /training for those still struggling –large community garden projects engaging and paying youth.

Help re-strengthen morale, community connection and spirit somehow

Drink driver charged

A43-year-old man appeared at Castlemaine Magistrates Court last Friday charged with drink driving. The accused was given a preliminary breath test on June 8 on Duke Street, Castlemaine.

An evidentiary test gave readings on .099, almost twice the

legal limit. When interviewed by police, the accused admitted to having consumed three pints of beer

The matter was adjourned to allow time for the accused to be assessed for suitability for acommunity rehabilitation order

Lynne Kelly.

The Mill Castlemaine. 4.

Sept mens ber 2 .

Theweek from September 2-6 the spotlight is on women’shealth. Aproject of Jean Hailes forWomen’sHealth, Women’sHealth Week presents aprogram packed with information forall females about health issues. Go online to www.jeanhailes.org.au/womens-health-week to read and be informed about specific health topics and there’sa40-page booklet ‘Your guide to women’shealth’ to download. It is packed with information about some of the mostasked-about women’shealth topics.

Jean Hailes forWomen’sHealth wasfounded in 1992toadd to the legacythatDrDorothyJeanHailesAMmadeto women’shealth. Jean wasanAustralian general practitioner and avisionary in the field of women’smedicine,which until her intervention, wasusually not given much attention.

You are in control

Amajor source of concern for pregnant and breastfeeding women is the large volume of conflicting advice from different professionals as well as friends and family

The Thompson Method is agentle, evidence-based method that aims toward agentle birth and pain-free breastfeeding experience. It was created by Dr Robyn Thompson, amidwife with more than 45 years’ experience who was awarded aPhD for her research into why so many women were being discharged from hospital with painful nipple trauma and other breastfeeding complications such as engorgement and mastitis. The Thompson Method challenges the techniques, linked with painful nipple trauma, that are commonly taught in most hospitals.

It’sfor all women who want to breastfeed, but particularly those giving birth in the hospital system because it offers agentle alternative to help women avoid the most common and painful breastfeeding complications.

But it’smore than just the technique on how to get agood latch. It is that, but it’ssomuch more.

It’shaving the knowledge to understand that what happens during your labour and birth will greatly influence your breastfeeding journey

It’sunderstanding how breast milk is produced so that you have the confidence to trust that your breasts will nourish your baby without fear of low supply

It’sabout being empowered to feel that you are in control of your labour, birth and breastfeeding experience.

It’sthe awareness that nipple shields, bottles, teats and dummies (pacifiers) will also impact on your breastfeeding journey

And at the very foundation of this gentle, evidence-based method is avery powerful belief abelief that every woman and her baby is unique.

To learn more about the Thompson Method, and how certified Thompson Method breastfeeding practitioners are helping women empower themselves, visit www.thethompsonmethod.com (See Innate Nurturing advertthis page.)

Join in for a week of wellness

Dhelkaya Health’scommunity health nurses are hitting the road to celebrate Jean Hailes Women’s Health Week across Mount Alexander Shire.

The week kicks offonWednesday September 4 with an information stall at the Maldon IGA from 11am-2.30pm. The stall will feature women’s health brochures and fresh fruit, generously donated by Harvest Castlemaine.

Take advantage of free blood pressure and blood sugar checks while learning about the importance of regular breast, cervical and bowel screenings.

“Weencourage everyone to visit and chat with us. Regular screenings and GP visits are crucial for prevention,” says Jenny Miko, living well community health nurse at Dhelkaya Health.

On Thursday September 5aninformation stall will be set up at Newstead Community Centre from 10.30am-noon, offering health checks and valuable information. Later that day,community health nNurse Bron Grieve will revisit her presentation on

Menopause and Perimenopause: More Than Just Hot Flushes and Sweats at the Castlemaine Library.The presentation is back by popular demand and will kick offat5.30pm.

The week wraps up on Friday September 6with a creative event at Castlemaine Library from 10amnoon. Join in for the unveiling of amural created by Dhelkaya Health’sSocial Support Services and Windarring, celebrating Jean Hailes Women’s Health Week. Communitymembers are invited to add their touch to the mural.

“This mural project is abeautiful way to end Women’sHealth Week,fostering community spirit and connection,” adds Jenny Women’sHealth Week is agreat week for women in Mount Alexander Shire to check in on their health and do something positive for their health and wellbeing.

For more information, visit dhelkayahealth.org.au or email info@castlemainehealth.org.au

Thepower of body neutrality

Women have been taughtsince they’re born that the most important thing about them is how they look, says Liz Reichard of Radiance Coaching.

“Wetell little girls how pretty they are rather than how smart or strong they are. There are billion dollar industries that create and feed our insecurities to sell us their products,” Liz says. “Thankfully things are changing. The Body

Love movement empowers women to love their bodies as they are now.Itshines alight on the systems that lead to women hating their bodies and that it’spossible to love it.

“However for many women going from loathing to loving their bodies can be amassive leap. It seems as impossible as trying to jump the Grand Canyon. But what if you aimed for the midpoint of body neutrality instead? It’salanding pad to aim for in the middle of the canyon that looks far more achievable,” Liz says.

She explains that body neutrality is when you can look atyourself and there is no hate, no love, just ‘this is my body’. Youview your body as an instrument that allows you to live this life, rather than an artwork to be admired.

Liz’stop tips to startyou on your path are

*Try to catch yourself when you have anegative thought about your body and change it into agratitude, e.g. ‘I’m grateful for my arms because Ican hug my doggo’ or ‘I’m grateful for my bum because it’scomfy to sit on’.

K N 2 7 9 9 3 7

*Find an activity that helps you out of your head and feeling into your body.There are so many different ones out there –qoya, yoga, bushwalking. It doesn’t matter what your chosen activity is,it’sabout feeling into your body and realising how wonderful she is.

“Onceyou achieve body neutrality,keep going on towards body love. You’re already halfway there!”

Thehealing power of qigong

In today’sfast-pacedworld, women often find themselves juggling multiple roles, leaving little time to care for their own wellbeing.

This constant pressure can lead to stress and depletion. The ancient healing art of qigong (pronounced “chee gong”) offers agentle, yet powerful way to restore balance and vitality

“Combining gentle body movements, self-applied massage and breath practices, qigong is used to cultivate the body’svital energy,or‘qi’,” says Michelle Teunon of Body And Soul Solutions.

“Qi flows through your body via energy pathways known as meridians which feed the life force to your organs.

“When qi flows freely,itpromotes physical and emotional wellbeing. If qi becomes blocked or deficient, it can lead to illness and discomfort. Disruptions in the flow of qi can occur from stress, injury,trauma, poor diet, or lack of exercise. “Incorporating qigong into your daily routine doesn’t require alot of time or effort. Even afew minutes aday can provide results, helping you navigate life’schallenges with greater ease and resilience,” Michelle says.

Qigong is accessible to women of all ages and fitness levels, making it an ideal practice for those seeking areplenishing approach to wellness. The gentle exercises promote flexibility,calmthe mind and replenish the body.Restoring balance and energy can nurture the body’snatural rhythms and support hormonal balance. Michelle Teunon, runs classes in Kyneton and Castlemaine at Body And Soul Solutions and now has a course available online. Classes are suitable for all abilities and many practices can be adapted to aseated position if there are pain or mobility challenges. Her next six-week course will begin in Kyneton on Friday October 25. She is offering afree introductory class on Friday October 18 for anyone to come and try qigong. (See advertfor details.)

Anew world awaits!

Local yoga teacher Wendy Hansford from Awakening Studio at 4Lewis Drive Castlemaine offers yoga classes every day of the week with arange of yoga styles taught by experienced teachers. For example, qigong is every Tuesday and sound baths and workshops are on every month.

Wendy’sother great passion are the tours she takes for women only to amazing parts of the world. With her personally curated itineraries, Wendy offers wonderful escapes to great destinations. Tours are small group staying in 5-star hotel accommodation and guided by aprofessional local guide. Wendy is your tour hostess and supports and helps get you there and back.

Wendy is offering two fabulous tours for 2025 and they will be awonderful life experience. UK and Ireland and spectacular Turkiye are just some of the destinations you can select from. Tours are: *May 3-26, 2025 -UKand Ireland, Castles, Kilts and Leprechauns. *October 1-22,2025 -Grand Tour of Turkiye

Bookings are now open for both fabulous tours. If you are interested in awonderful tour with like-minded, fun, adventurous women be sure to contact Wendy and discuss further For any information on yoga classes or UK and Ireland and Turkiye Tours, contact Wendy by email wendyhansford1@gmail.com or check out the timetable on Awakening Yoga website: awakening-yoga-castlemaine.mailchimpsites.com for all studio offerings.

Whereyogacomestolife. Yoga foreveryone In Castlemaine Every day. AwakeningYoga is a friendly studio wherebeing human is the only experienceyou need.

Women only toursare: 3-26May 2025.UKand Ireland. Castles, Kiltsand Leprechauns 1-22 October 2025. Grand Tour of Turkiye. Bookingsare nowopen forbothfabulous tours. If youare interestedinawonderful tour with likeminded, fun, adventurous women be suretocontact Wendy and discussfurther Forany information on yoga classesorUK and Ireland and TurkiyeTours,pleasecontact Wendy by email or check out the timetable on Awakening Yoga website

Awakening Yoga Studio 4Lewis DriveCastlemaine wendyhansford1@gmail.com https://awakening-yoga-castlemaine mailchimpsites.comfor

Get to know yourself

Meet Fran Woodruff– theheart behind WomenEmerging, ahaven dedicated to supporting mid-life women in their journey towards athriving life.

Through her unique blend of somatic (body-based) therapy,counselling and coaching, Fran guides you towards a profound understanding ofyourself. This includes shedding light on your unconscious patterns, beliefs and emotions that shape your thoughts and actions.

Have you noticed recurring patterns in your thoughts or behaviours but can’t pinpoint their origin? Do you feel like past emotional scars still cast ashadow over your present life? Do you question whether certain beliefs about yourself or the world are limiting your potential? Are there facets of your personal or professional relationships you wish to improveorcomprehend better? Do you struggle to maintain calm amid stressful situations? If your answer to any of these is “yes”, Fran saysshe can partner with your to transform your life by

*Cultivating self-awareness by decoding your internal thoughts and emotion

*Attainingemotional healing by unearthing and resolving past traumas

*Living your truth by transforming your core beliefs

*Nurturing better relationships by recognising patterns and setting boundaries

*Managing stress and cultivate mindfulness to tackle life’schallenges

Whether you’re on aquest to overcomespecific obstacles or simply wish to evolve as a person, Fran says her somatic approach paves the way for profound self-discovery and fulfilment.

“You’ll uncover deeper layers of yourself, leading to alife that aligns with your true desires,” Fran says.

Fran offers her support both in person in Castlemaine and online via Zoom.

Subscribe to the Women Emerging Newsletter and get immediate access to the midlife magic quiz. Contact Fran for acomplimentary 30-minute chat. (See advertfor contact details.)

Amagical musical weekend

Two of the all-time greats of Australia’s singer/songwriter scene of late last century will be performing at Burke and Wills Winery at Mia Mia this coming weekend, along with one of the next generation.

Mike McClellan had astringofhits in the ‘70s and ‘80s, including Song And Dance Man, The One ILove, Rock And Roll Lady, Saturday Dance and many more, as well as having his songs recorded by Melanie, Rick Nelson, John Farnham and aswag of other artists. He also hosted his own TV show on ABC, Mike McClellan’s Country.Hespent the next decade in the advertising industry, producing many memorable jingles (Red Red Red Red Rooster, ICan Feel AFourXComingOn,etc.), but he never stopped writing and recording songs. He has produced four CDs in the past 10 years and continues playing concerts.

Judy Small is internationally famous, especially on the female /feminist circuit, and in the ‘80s played many festivals in Canada and the USA, as well as Australia of course, until she decided it was time to step down from the stage and pursue what she had studied at university –Law. She quickly became asolicitor and then aFamilyCourt judge. Retiring at age 65 four years ago she has revived her singing career on apart-time basis, choosing to play just her favourite venues and festivals.

Judy will be playing at Burke and Wills Winery on Saturday afternoon, in harness with Ami Williamson, avery skilled multiinstrumentalist, classically trained singer, great entertainer and daughter of John Williamson.

Mike McClellan will be playing on Sunday afternoon, after aprelunch show featuring one of Australia’s greatest magicians, Sam Angelico. Amagical weekend of live music to savour.

More information at www.wineandmusic.net, or phone 5425 5400.

Wilddiscoveries

Four local photographers entranced by nature present some of their most striking discoveries of the wild, which are visual testaments to and explorations of the natural world.

The exhibition, titled Wild Discoveries: an exhibition of nature photography,featured photographs by Daryl Fleay, Patrick Kavanagh, Marte Newcombe and Bronwyn Silver.

"Nature embodies breathtaking complexity, subtle and intricate relationships and ineffable beauty," Kavanagh said.

"Much remains hidden to the casual eye, yet much can be revealed through the photographic lens.

"Minute details of afeather or moss, connections in colour and texture, colours and vast plenty in the night sky invisible to the unaided eye."

The exhibition will be launched by local bird expert Geoff Park on Saturday September 7at11amatthe Newstead Arts Hub, 8A Tivey Street, Newstead.

Everyone is welcome to the opening and refreshments will be provided.

Wild Discoveries: an exhibition of nature photography will be open every weekend in September from 10am to 4pm.

This weekend! 5decades of great music and magic.... Sat 7th from 3.30pm

JUDYSMALL

(Mothers Daughters Wives) & AMI WILLIAMSON & MOONSHINE COALITION

Fingers and toes

Kyneton Handweavers and Spinners are returning the Fingers and Toes Festival at the Red Brick Hall, Yaldwyn Street West, Kyneton, on Saturday,September 7,10am to 4pm. This is the second festival and follows avery successful event last year.Go along and see lovely articles for your fingers and toes,with entries from Melbourne, Bendigo, Castlemaine and lots of support for local craftspeople.

Admission is by gold coin donation, children free and araffle to boot.

Crosswindtakes the stage

Castlemaine legends Crosswind will be playing afree gig at the Taproom in Castlemaine on September 13 from 7-9pm.

This four-piece band, made up of Pip Avent (acoustic, electric bass), Andrew Dunn (drums, scrub-board), Rod Willaton (rhythm guitar,harmonica) and Laurie Nicoll (electric/acoustic guitar,five-string banjo), plays an energetic variety of music. Whether it’sbluegrass, folk, classic rock ‘n’ roll or jazz, their sets range from quiet acoustic dinner sets to full band dance brackets. Great vocals, tasty solos, solid rhythms and alively stage presence are all standard equipment. Using arange of instruments, the band shares the vocals and four-part harmonies are afeature.

For further info, demo tracks and live performance, visit www.facebook.com/ Crswnd

Mike McClellan.

Ami Williamson.

Wedge-tailed eagle family in Harcourt by Daryl Fleay.

Crosswind will play afree gig at the Taproom in Castlemaine on September 13.

Too tiredtodrive?

One-in-five Victorians have driven while being so tired they have struggled to keep their eyes open, anew survey from the Transport Accident Commission has found.

The TAChas released its annual Road Safety Monitor report, which found about two-thirds of the more than 2300 survey respondents had driven while feeling ‘quite tired’ or ‘very tired’, with 21 per cent admitting to driving when they could not keep their eyes open.

The survey,which asks participants about their road safety behaviours and attitudes, highlighted men aged 18 to 59 in outer urban and regional areas were most at risk, with 37 per cent of this cohort stating they have driven while very tired.

Drowsy driving is afactor in 16 to 20 per cent of fatal crashes each year on Victorian roads and contributes to about 25 per cent of road trauma injuries at The Alfred and Royal Melbourne hospitals.

In May,the TAClaunched acampaign addressing the severe risks of drowsy driving, backed by research that found drivers who get less than five hours of sleep are four times more likely to crash.

The campaign urges drivers to watch

for warning signs of drowsy driving, such as difficulty staying centred in the lane, struggling to keep eyes open, blurred vision, zoning out, or aloss of concentration.

Drivers experiencing these symptoms should pull over to rest and, if possible, switch drivers.

The survey comes as the number of lives lost on Victorian roads has overtaken last year’sfigures, with more than 185 road deaths so far in 2024 compared to 178 at the same time in 2023.

Other Road Safety Monitor findings

*About 98 per cent of respondents said they always wore aseatbelt when driving, while about 96 per cent said they always wore aseatbelt as apassenger

*Three per cent reported drink-driving when above the legal limit –steady on last year and acontinued reduction from six per cent in 2016.

*Twenty five per cent of respondents said they had deliberately exceeded the speed limit by 10km/h or more, while 64 per cent had done so by three km/h or more.

*Less than one per cent of respondents said they had driven after using illegal drugs.

Amillion-plus go digital

More than one million Victorians have activated adigital driver's licence on their smart phone since they were launched in May this year

Digital driver's licences are convenient and optional, with more than one-in-five eligible licence holders accessing their driver,motorcycle and heavy vehicle licences safely and securely via the myVicRoads and Service Victoria apps.

Tens of thousands of Victorians continue to activate their digital drivers licence each week, with the strong take up expectedtocontinue when digital driver's licences become available for learner and probationary drivers this summer

Feedback from Victorians has been overwhelmingly positive, with ease of use and convenience being the most common reasons for people embracing the technology

Digital driver's licences feature atime-sensitive unique QR code embedded at the top of the licence, an inbuilt dynamic hologram of the Victorian Coat of Arms, apull to refresh function, and an ability for the user to select the level of personal information they share on the screen.

Security measures that protect licence holders also provide confidence to authorities and businesses that digital licences are authentic and regularly updated. Digital driver's licences automatically display if alicence is no longer valid but can still be used to prove identity or age for up to two years.

Visit the VicRoads or Service Victoria websites to find out more about the digital driver's licence.

What’sthe latest buzz?

The list of new plug-in hybrid vehicles set to hit Australian roads is growing as the vehicle type rises in popularity,according to theNational Automotive Leasing and Salary Packaging Association.

BYD recently launched the Sealion 6mid-size SUV –among the latest low-emissions and more advanced PHEVs set to enter Australian showrooms.

It comes as the latest Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries data shows SUV and passenger PHEV sales have more than doubled (138per cent increase) between April 2023 and 2024. In April 2024 PHEVs represented over aquarter (26.8 per cent) of all electrified sales of SUVs in Australia.

NALSPA’sown figures also show that demand for novated lease PHEVs has almost trebled in recent months –well up from the middle of 2023 when PHEVs represented just six per cent of all novated lease electrified sales.

NALSPAchief executive Rohan Martin said the expanded availability of new models combined with government incentives was driving demand for PHEVs in Australia.

“It’snever been more affordable and accessible to buy aplug-in hybrid vehicle in Australia –and it’sdriving demand. Arange of new PHEVs have already hit Australian roads this year with more in the pipeline, plus the government’sFBT exemption is providing the added incentive for motorists,” Mr Martin said.

“The FBT exemption for PHEVs is providing ameaningful discount for working Australians to now afford these cars and the new low-emissions technology they bring. As motorists navigate cost-of-living pressures, they are discovering that the exemption and salary packaging of their vehicle can save them thousands of dollars every year –not to mention savings on fuel too."

The list of some of the new SUV or pick-up PHEVsthat have been confirmed or will likely be available in Australia include

BYD –Shark Ute

Chery –Tiggo 7, Tiggo 8 and Tiggo 9Pro

Chery –TJ-1

Chery –Omoda 7

Cupra –Terrama

Ford –Everest

Ford –Ranger

GAC –ES9

Geely –Galaxy L7

GWM –Haval 6

Hyundai –SantaFe

HappyBirthday Birthday Birthday

TUESDAY,SEPTEMBER

WEDNESDAY,SEPTEMBER 4

Holly McLeish

THURSDAY,SEPTEMBER 5

FRIDAY,SEPTEMBER 6

Tahlia Howlett .turns 6

SATURDAY,SEPTEMBER 7

Ryan Bourke .turns 13

Alexander Biggs turns 12

Jenaya PaigeYoung turns 8 LaceyWolters turns 7

SUNDAY,SEPTEMBER 8

Ethan Portelli turns 12

MONDAY,SEPTEMBER 9

Lewis Guest .turns 12

Xavier Thomas Sieber-Hogg .turns 7

BrookeBritton .turns 7

Heidi Tilley. .turns 2

Covering the Macedon Ranges and Mount Alexander Shires

Circulated throughout: Kyneton, Castlemaine,Gisborne,Malmsbury,Trentham, Woodend, Redesdale,Lancefield, Romsey,Macedon, Mt. Macedon, Metcalfe Chewton, Harcourt, Newstead,Maldon,Taradale, Elphinstone, Campbells Creek, Guildford, Barkers Creek, Sutton Grange, Baringhup,Muckleford, Yapeen.

ELLIOTT MIDLAND NEWSPAPERS

KYNETON

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Telephone: (03) 5422 1488

Facsimile: General (03) 5422 3173

CASTLEMAINE

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Telephone: (03) 5472 1788

Facsimile: (03) 5472 4504

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MondaytoFriday9.00 am-5.00 pm

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MondaytoFriday8.30 am-5.00 pm

Email: Kyneton: ahume@midnews.com.au Castlemaine: ldennis@midnews.com.au

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FridayIssue Cas. Mail: Booking and Copy— 4.30 pm Tuesdayprior Email: lbrew@midnews.com.au CLASSIFIED

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The logic of compost tumblers goes like this: Lack ofaeration makes compost piles stinky and slow. Byturning thecompost regularly, we add air through the pile and the compost willbreak down faster and not smell. Sounds good… in theory.

Ifour approach to composting is to ‘Tip and Run’, atumblerwill not improve our compost much. If we give the tumbler a few turns each day (or, will that beeach week?), inside the tumbler all the wet, nutrient-rich scraps willballupintostinky ‘foodballs’, stodgy in winter and dried to hard crusts in summer.

One of the good features oftumblers is therodent-proof processing they provide, but vinegar flies willlikely find their waythrough the ventilation holes (which are essential for aeration), and compost leachate (brown nutrient-rich liquids) will drain outthe holes and joints of the tumbler.

If we progress from ‘Tip and Run’ composting, and start puta more balanced compost blend in our tumbler, adding carbon-rich ingredients like straw, woody garden prunings (chopped up short), autumn leaves etc. to our kitchen offerings, we’ll find the aeration needs of the compost have actually been met by the air pathways in thestructure of these materials.

Tumbling this better balanced compost mix won’t really help it much. Abalanced, but slightly dry mix will tend to dry out further when tumbled, particularly in summer.

Awetter mix can still end up clumping into balls whentumbled.Fungi and worms both hate all that agitation, so will do poorly in regularly tumbled compost, so tumblers really depend on bacteria

and oxidation to do theheavy lifting of decomposition.

Most modern tumblers are not very big, and will fill up quickly if weput abalanced compost mix into them. Larger tumblers get very heavy and become quite hard to turn, but, eveninsmaller tumblers, the weight of the wet compost can be significant, putting alot of stress on the pivot mechanism and joints. This is probably why tumblers are such acommon hard rubbish item.

Probably thebestuse for atumbleris as afoodscraps pre-treatmentprocessor, providing arodent-proof, bacterially active environment for afew weeks to make food scraps unpalatable to rodents. This ‘early stage’ compost could then go into abin or bay forfungi and worm curing for several months. Butthat would involve getting pretty fresh compost out of the tumbler’s ‘hatch’… another not so great design feature! Idothinktumblers might be overcomplicating thecompost process. A Gedye-style bin with rodent mesh over the bottom provides the rodent proofing we need for cool composting,and with no moving parts to fail. If we want good compost, westill need abalanced blend of ingredients, which should have all the aeration it needs in its materials, no tumbling required.

Perhaps you have worked out agreat way to use tumblers. We always love to hear from you.

–Joel Meadows 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!

for this

Firewood collection from the Loddon Mallee will be restricted to residents of specific shires including Hepburn, Macedon Ranges, Mitchell and Mount Alexander councils. It is illegal to collect wood outside designated areas or to chop down or damage any dead orstanding trees. It is also an offence to take vehicles offformed roads to collect or load.

Authorised officers are patrolling public land andcan issuefines of more than $750 for offences, and amaximum penalty of $9879 and/or one year in prison. People can report suspected illegal firewood collection to136 186.

Joel having alook in the hatch of avenerable old compost tumbler.

TIME TO ENROL

Whetheryouhaveayoungonebeginningschoolfor theveryfirsttimeoranolderchildreadytoembarkon secondaryeducation,thechoicesarewideand variedacrossthecentralVictoriadistrict,sothereisan educationsystemtosuitjustabouteveryone. TakealookatthisMidlandExpressspecialTimetoEnrol featuretofindoutmore

TIME TO ENROL for 2025

Discover the difference at St Mary’sSchool in Castlemaine where young minds are nurtured and inspired to thrive. The school offers ahighly engaging and supportive environment for students. Its beautiful campus is ahaven of green space, providing children with aunique connection to nature. With expansive outdoor areas teeming with birdlife, lush gardens, and avibrant kitchen garden, St Mary’soffersanimmersive learning experience that fosters adeeprespect for the environment. In aworld where green spaces are becoming less and less, the school’scommitment to sustainable practices is adefining feature.

At St Mary’s, they know that success is built on strong relationships and asense of belonging. They encourage their students to strive for excellence, emphasising deep understanding, practical application of knowledge, and continuous improvement.

St Mary’sviews challenges as opportunities for growth, teaching students that achievement comes through effort, perseverance, and learning from mistakes. The passionate and professional staffare committed to ongoing development, ensuring that their teaching practices remain at the cutting edge of educational science, neuroscience and global competencies.

Experience the unique and forward-thinking community at St Mary’s. Contact the welcoming administration team to arrange atour and see first hand what sets the school apart. (See advertfor school contact details.)

Our Ladyofthe Rosary

Walking into the grounds of Our Lady of the Rosary Parish School Kyneton you will surely feel asense of welcome and care, and astrong presence of faith and pride –even before you meet any of the students, families or staff.

“Weare passionately Catholic and use our faith to guide our actions and values,” says principal Daniel Bermingham.

OLR offers aphysically pleasing environment that fosters learning and growth but it is the human connections and relationships that are its real strength.

Newham Primary School

Situated between the surrounding townships of Woodend, Romsey and Lancefield, Newham Primary School is aschoolfull of heart and community Picturesque grounds, views of Hanging Rock and wellequipped classrooms await.

NPS welcomes all new students from foundation to year six, from all across the region (including those outside of the school zone).

All students form F-6 have access to their own laptop, as well as shared use of iPads to support the everincreasing digital world we live in. Phonics instruction, specific and explicit literacy and numeracy skills and a strong emphasis on wellbeing are key principles taught daily at NPS.

“We’re a5-star Resource Smart School and are proud to be afinalist for the Resource Smart School of the Year awards in 2024,” says principal TimFurphy.

“A specialist subject of sustainability from F-6 ensures our students are taught their role in maintaining our environmental future. This, along with PE, French, music, kitchen garden and ART, ensures our students thrive across all interest areas.

“Being asmall school, our team takes collective responsibility for,and takes pride in, the successes of students at our school. With each student’swellbeing and individual learning needs at the forefront of all we

“Wehave asaying here at OLR where ‘not only do we enrol your child, we enrol your family’. This focus on relationships and the family-school partnership drives our thinking and the realisation that the wellbeing of our students and our families is directly related and interdependent with student outcomes,” Mr Bermingham says. The investigation and inquiry based learning program used throughout the school, and in particular in junior classes, highlights and focuses on attachment, engagement and motivating the students.

do, stafffocus on developing independence, confidence and initiative.”

Interested to hear more? Give Newham Primary School acall they’d love to show you around.

“Weare passionate about laying afoundation of learning independence and ownership where students are encouraged to take risks and to problem solve in asafeand stimulating setting,” Mr Bermingham says.

“Werealise students are all on their own unique learning and faith journeys and that difference is to be celebrated and accepted. Our Lady of the Rosary students ‘learn by doing’, through arigorous yet creative curriculum.

“Weare proud of our achievements and being apart of such anexciting andevolving Kyneton community.”

St Mary’s School Castlemaine

TIME TO ENROL for 2025

Girton Grammar School

Girton Grammar School is hosting its next school tour on Tuesday September 10. The tour will begin at 9am at the school gates located at 59 Wattle Street. Upon arrival, attendees will be warmly welcomed and assigned an expert guide who will provide atailored group tour of the junior school, senior school or both campuses, depending on individual preferences.

During the tour,families will have the opportunity to explore

the school’sextensive buildings and grounds, learn about its rich history,and discuss their child’seducational needs. The tour will showcase the school’sstate-of-the-art facilities including modern classrooms, professional-grade performing arts facilities and gymnasium, and advanced science and technology labs featuring cutting-edge virtual reality within the Lumination Learning Lab.

Principal Dr Emma O’Rielly is excited to welcome

prospective families to experience Girton first hand. She believes aschool tour not only provides aglimpse of the school’sexceptional facilities but allows families to fully immerse themselves in Girton’svibrant atmosphere, connect with other prospective families, and ask any questions they may have. To find out more about the tour or to book aplace, visit the school’swebsite at girton.vic. edu.au or contact the registrar on5441 3114.

SCHOOLTOUR

TUESDAYSEPTEMBER 10

At Girton,weare currentlyexperiencing high enrolmentdemand for2025and 2026.Werecommend applying nowto secure aplace foryourchild.

Remainingavailability for2025:

• Prep: 2placesremaining

• Year 3: 1place remaining

• Year 4: 13 places remaining

• Year 6: Full -weare nowtakingexpressions of interest foranadditional Year 6class

• Year 7: Full- please enquire to reservea place on our waitlist.Someplacesmay become availablelater this year.

Places areavailableinall otheryearlevelsfor 2025

Availability for2026:

Thereare limitedplacesavailable forPrepand Year 7in 2026.Placesare currentlyavailable in allother yearlevels. Forfurther information,ortobookyourplace on ourSchoolTour, please seeour website: girton.vic.edu.au,orcontact ourRegistryteam on 03 5441 3114 or registrar@girton.vic.edu.au

TIME TO ENROL for 2025

Castlemaine SteinerSchool and Kindergarten

Your child will be inspired to learn at Castlemaine Steiner School and Kindergarten. Offering acontemporary Steiner education from kindergarten to year eight, the school follows the nationally accredited Steiner curriculum, which is designed to meet the developmental needs of young people and provides abalance of academic, artistic and practical learning experiences.

Beginning with an enriched kinder program for 2025, the school has expanded its nature-based learning experiences to include horticulture and an outdoor classroom with abiodynamic vegetable garden, bushfood island and native wetlands. In the early years, afocus on daily rhythm of activities to allow students the time for creative and collaborative play,songs, verses, games and bush exploration.

Learning is not just academic, it is also social, and relationships are avital part of life. Aunique feature of Castlemaine Steiner School is that the class teacher stays with the class for anumber of years. The class teacher plays asignificant role, and it is with this continuity of care, that they develop an understanding of each child’s academic, social and emotional needs.

The senior years program at Castlemaine Steiner School provides agreat option to springboard into secondary education. This program is designed to inspire and prepare senior students as they engage with the core values of citizenship, service and leadership endeavours. On graduating from class eight at Castlemaine Steiner School, students have the option to continue into the popular Steiner stream at Castlemaine Secondary College.

For families interested to learn more about Steiner education at Castlemaine Steiner School and Kindergarten, go along to the open day on Friday October 25. For bookings and further information contact enrolments officer Tracey on 5479 2000, email at enrolments@cssk.vic.edu.au or visit the school’swebsite.

LangleyPrimary School

Just 10 minutes drive from Kyneton CBD, Langley Primary School offers all the special benefits that can be provided by asmall and supportive, family orientated educational environment.

Langley Primary values the partnership between families and school to ensure all children have apositive experience of school.

“Werecognise all children are unique and have different interests, needs and motivations,” says principal Frances Langenberg.

“When you enrol your child, the school will discuss with you any reasonable adjustments and strategies and tailor atransition program to support your child’s success and wellbeing at school.

“Langley Primary School, with our small enrolment, is uniquely placed to offer individual support to any learner,atany age, and at any level. We also actively support partial enrolment, where students can go to school part-time and learn from home part-time. Parents do need to register for home schooling and keep arecord of their homeschooling activities.

“Our explicit teaching of literacy and numeracy coupled with ourindividualised approach has proven great results with our students.”

Students also take part in varied programs including sport, music, visual and performing arts, STEM, Stephanie Alexander kitchen garden program and the visiting mobile library as well as other co-curricular opportunities camps and excursions. Term four enrolments are welcome or enrol now for 2025. Call 5423 4125 or email the school langley.ps@ education.vic.gov.au to enquire for more information or to book atour (See advertpage 23.)

Castlemaine Secondary College

Castlemaine Secondary College’svalues of Aspiration, Respect and Empathy clearly define the school’spositive learning culture. All students are encouraged to be their best, while developing awareness of the community around them, engaging with others in a way that builds positive relationships. At CSC they have high learning expectations ofstaffand students. They promote and support emotional and physical wellbeing, developing resilient community members. Enhancing literacy and numeracy skills for all students remains aconstant focus at CSC. Regardless ofastudent’spathway,maintaining continuous improvement of these skills will support students to realise their career dreams. Developing and maintaining improvement in literacy and numeracy is ashared responsibility between the college, the student, and their family Continually improving the school’sphysical surroundings also remains aconstantfocus, aiming to create alearning environment that supportsaspiration and pride in beinga CSCstudent. Contact the college if you would like further information, or to arrange a tour

Castlemaine Secondary invitesinterested families to contact the collegefor 2025 enrolment information.

Using theBerryStreet Education Model, CSC prides itself on providing unconditionalpositive regardfor all students, combinedwiththe school-widepositive behaviour framework, our highexpectationsculture supports allstudents to succeed.

Check out our website for further details. csc.vic.edu.au

Lawson Parade Castlemaine Vic3450

T. 03 5479 1111

castlemaine.sc@education.vic.gov.au

At Global Village Learning we offer pathways that open up multiple opportunities including TAFE and alternative or portoflio entrytouniversity.

PROGRAM EXPLORES PATHWAYS AND FUTURES FOR FOR EVERY LEARNER.

Three days hybrid study each week.

Two days off-sitea week at Internship.

Portoflio Assesments, not exams

Our VCE VM Pathway offers aDiploma of Business (Entrepreneurship)oryour own chosen TAFE Cert III or IV studies, with VCE subjects of Literacy, Numeracy, Personal Development Skills and WorkplaceStudies. VPC PATHWAY

OurVPC pathway offers opportunities to complete a TAFE Cert II or III certification in withVCE subjects of Literacy, Numeracy,Personal Development Skills and Workplace Studies. Allthis at apace that offers exploration of future pathways for every learner.

YOUR OWN PATHWAY

Got a different idea of what your senior studies might look like? Let’s chat and see how we can personalise this within the boundaries of the VCE ME or VPC requirements.

VCE VM PATHWAY YES, IS

TIME TO ENROL for 2025

St Ambrose Woodend

The St Ambrose Woodend community will embrace further exciting, energising, challenging and new opportunities for learning in 2025. Together,they create aprimary school environment with rich and diverse learning opportunities within anurturing setting aimed to inspire students to thrive.

“Wesee learning as anatural process,” says principal Bronwyn Phillips.

“Indeed, our children come to us curious and motivated to learn. Our school is one that strives for excellence. Our dedicated team work together following an explicit instruction model based on best practice. We foster creativity,encourage critical thinking and we are flexible in our approach to support individual learning styles.”

To gain further insight into the culture of St Ambrose, Ms Phillips would be very happy to meet with you to discuss your child’sneeds and show you through the beautifully upgraded school facilities.

“Wehope that you will sense an inclusive and caring environment, which gives children the support they need to develop all competencies,” she said.

“It is our hope and desire that joining our community will be an enriching and life-giving experience for your child and your family and it would be our great privilege to be able to work in partnership with you to bring about growth and development in every aspect of your child.

“Wewant to support your child to be highly motivated about learning and enjoy coming to school. We stay open to infinite possibilities as we learn together,” Ms Phillips says. Places are filling for 2025 so submit your enrolment as soon as you have made your decision (See advertfor school contact details.)

SacredHeart CollegeKyneton

Students in all year levels at Sacred Heart College Kyneton are offered the opportunity to participate in abroad range of STEM (science, technology,engineering and maths) related activities through learning programs, activities, competitions, incursions and excursions. The combination of the STEM learning areas results in activities that nurture students’ skills ofdiscovery and exploration, adding to the joy and satisfaction of experience.

The annual STEM Week activities are central to the celebrations of STEM at the college. Coinciding with National Science Week, this week offers students (and staff) the chance to enjoy everything STEM through arange ofworkshops and activities.

Past activitieshave included abridge building competition, virtual reality workshop, binary bracelets workshop and an engineering better paper planes contest. Anew and popular addition to the activities last year was the daily Golden Brain Treasure Hunt. This activity required students and stafftosolve daily STEM puzzles towork out the coordinates to locate aGolden Brain ticket –the daily hunt got incredibly competitive but was lots of fun!

Inthe junior years, the school formally offers students who excel and enjoy maths and science (among other areas) the opportunity to participate in the Learning Enhancement Program. The program allows further investigation and adeeper level of learning beyond that required by the standard curriculum. This experience can lead to possible acceleration in STEM subjects as students reach senior school.

Opportunities for immersion and engagement in these subjects at ajunior level develops continued interest in the senior years, as seen through strong levels of enrolment in VCE mathematics and science subjects. As well as these, arange of additional STEM subjects are run in the seniorcurriculum across VCE and VET disciplines. STEM pathways also continue to be popular among the college’syear 12 leavers with asignificant percentage continuing in post-secondary STEM studies and later,their chosen careers.

To learn more about the educational offerings of Sacred Heart College consider booking aplace for one of the regular college tours –bookings can be made via the college website: www.shckyneton.catholic.edu.au

To learn more about the Senior School

and available pathways, join oneofour regular College tours -bookings

For all enrolment enquiries contact the College Registrar, Denise Lawrence.

TIME TO ENROL for 2025

Highview College

Highview College encourages your child to think critically and creatively andhave the ability to be independent, lifelong learners.

Highview offers adynamic holistic education where academic excellence and personal development are considered equally important. The school aims to provide ‘Education Through Wholeness’ where each student is encouraged to develop ethically, scholastically,socially,spiritually,emotionally and physically,consistent with their true potential.

The students are supported through an excellent Pastoral Care system, with a strong emphasis on Positive Education. The social and emotional development of the students atHighview College is catered for through acaring and individual approach. Highview College enables students to develop the confidence and skills to be independent, responsible, active and contributing members of their school and community

Olivet Christian College

Olivet Christian College has acaring family atmosphere and astrong emphasis on developing character

All staffare committed Christians with apassion as teachers to see their students achieve success in demonstrating academic excellence and consistent moral character

Highlights include astrong work ethic among students, Buddy program, a great range of extra-curricula activities, and healthy staff-student relations. Christian education is seen as a partnership with parents to encourage, equip and empower students for life. The main mission of the college is to prepare students effectively,spiritually and academically,for today’sworld.

Highview College’sacademic program aims to build on the Positive Education approach by providing courses that suit and fully extend the varying abilities,talents and interests of students. In the senior years, Highview offers arangeofVCE andVET subjects to cater for the different career pathways of students.

Most importantly,Highview College prepares its students for life beyond school by developing students who have a positive attitude towards learning, can think critically and creatively and the ability to be independent “lifelong learners”. Leadership programs with an emphasis on community service and support, where students are empowered with the ‘confidence to achieve’, are embedded in all aspects of school life.

Tylden Primary School

Tylden Primary School is proud of its long tradition, providing awelcoming and caring environment for its students.

The school has astrong reputation for engaging its students in ahigh-quality, knowledge-rich curriculum, giving them the best opportunity to reach their full potential.

With astrong focus on developing motivated learners who are articulate, curious and socially capable, Tylden Primary’sstaffpride themselves on equipping students for the future.

At Tylden Primary,they prioritise literacy and numeracy development, with strong foundations laid in the first years of school.

The reading program is firmly grounded in the ‘Science of Reading’ and classroom study in the early years includes synthetic phonics, phonemic awareness and decodable readers. The teachers systematically build spelling, vocabulary and comprehension skills at all levels to consolidate strongliteracy skills.

Tylden Primary welcomes enrolments at all year levels. To enquire about enrolling your child at Tylden Primary,contact the school on 03 54248244 or tylden.ps@ education.vic.gov.au

–See advertpage23.

30 Simpson Street,Kyneton

Beyond just ashipping container house, this transformed space showcases aunique and stylish living environment blending creative design with practicality and sustainability.Louise Moysey,the designer and builder behind this project, has created ahome that offers an innovative blend of modern living with sustainable features and reclaimed materials making it a standout property

This one-of-a-kind home is amasterful blend of inventive design and sustainable living. Meticulously crafted using three 12-metre shipping containers, it features astriking 19-metre skillion roof that complements the industrial aesthetic of the containers while enhancing natural light and airflow.The open-plan layout emphasises the home’sgenerous space. The central infill has aceiling height of 3.9m, creating alight-filled and airy living environment.

The central floor plan features aspacious north-facing living area with aNectre Bakers Oven Wood Heater and asliding door onto amod wood deck overlooking aprivate courtyard. The kitchen provides afreestanding gas cooktop with an oven (bottled gas), adishwasher,a brushed aluminium splashback, generous storage and a3.6mx1mkauri timber benchtop that was once atailors workbench, complete with cutting marks, one of many distinct reclaimed items throughout this build.

The main bedroom features aceiling fan, private access to the main bathroom and views of the surrounding landscape while asecond bedroom offers plywood cladding, aceiling fan and views. Anorth-facing third bedroom has the benefit of aprivate ensuite which includes a shower,a wall-hung basin, atoilet, and external access.

Apull-down stair leads to aversatile loft area, perfect for storage or acosy fourth bedroom with additional access via awall-mounted ladder,and the main bathroom has ashower,a deep clawfoot bath, atoilet, avanity and underfloor heating.

Design details include sliding walls to create flexible spaces for privacy and amulti-purpose floor plan, 40mm thick polished timber floors from areclaimed squash court, bespoke pendant lamps made from old Indian metal water pots, askylight over the dining area for natural light, high louvres and ceiling fans to enhance the airflow in living areas and asplit system.

The home has an integrated 28-panel solar system, alarge water tank that switches to mains supply when required, aheat pump and high-performanceinsulation, and commercial double glazing, ensuring energy efficiency and sustainability

The generous yet manageable 1001m2 (approx.) property features athree metre southfacing covered verandah connected to the carport and afreestanding 12-metre container lap pool, complemented by an outside hot shower,perfect for those warm summer days.

Property: An innovative blend ... modern, sustainable, some of it reclaimed

Address: 4James Street Castlemaine

Price: $1,350,000

Agent: Cantwell Property Castlemaine

Contact: Nick Haslam 0422 848 662

Open: Thursday 5September 5pm-5.30pm Saturday 7September 11.45am-12.15pm

Auction: Saturday14September 11am

44 Stephen Street,Gisborne

TIMELESSCHARM IN ONE OF GISBORNE'S MOST SOUGHT-AFTER LOCATIONS

This residence beautifully combines Victorian charm with modern amenities, offering aluxurious and comfortable living experience. Its coveted location, generous allotment,elevated position, and fabulous features makeitaunique opportunity in the heartofthe old Gisborne township

As you approach this beautiful property,you'llbewelcomed by well-established gardens leading up the stairs. Theveranda offersstunning views, setting the tone forwhat lies inside. Upon entering,you'llbecharmed by cathedral ceilings and multiple living spaces. Thewarm and welcoming living area, with its woodfireheating and ample natural light,creates acomfortable and cozy atmosphere. Theexpansive kitchen features European appliances and is perfect forall your culinary needs.

Continuing through the home, you'll find an upper-level retreat with timber flooring.Accommodation includes four bedrooms serviced by acentral bathroom and amain bedroom with ensuite, study/5th bedroom. Downstairsyou will discover afour-car garage with hidden storage and workshop space. Stepping outside, the property boasts atennis courtand alovely large outdoor entertaining area, all situated on agenerous 980m² block.The home also offersmodern amenities such as solar panels, gas ducted heating,and split system heating and cooling.

Thecombination of classic elegance and contemporary convenience makes 44 Stephen Street atruly exceptional property and one you don't want to miss!

Maddy Perfonowski 0423 332 611

maddy.perfonowski@gisborne.rh.com.au

KenGrech 0418509 710

ken.grech@gisborne.rh.com.au

Midland

Possibilities areendless

Arare opportunity to purchase asizeable land holding presents. How often do two sizeable properties come up for sale right next to each other?

Sited close to the centre of town and in the hospital and schools’ precinct of Kyneton, these two property holdings are spread over an enviable two acres/8000m2 (approx.).

Offered for sale as separate blocks, or as acombined offering, the age old cliche “possibilities are endless” statement is most suiting.

With the potential rental income while waiting for approvals, this is the most extraordinary offering we have seen in Kyneton for along time.

Option one

Both 50 and 52 Caroline Chisholm Drive, Kyneton totalling two acres (approx.)

Both properties together,a perfect development/land banking proposition.

•Combined street frontage of nearly 50m (approx.)

•Depth of 140m.(approx.) on the north side

•Potential 8lot subdivision (STCA)

•Possible rental income from both houses during planning stage

Option two

50 Caroline Chisholm is astunning home, with afeeling of sophistication. There are two large living areas, both with north facing light, 5bedrooms, two with ensuites, three bathrooms and double integrated garage -the images and the floor plan say it all

•9ft (2.7m) ceilings

•Ductedheating and cooling, gas fireplace and split system

•Solar

•Doubled glazing

•3 phase power

•Shed 5x8 m

•Land size 4000m2 (approx.)

Option three

52 Caroline Chisholm, asmall home in great condition, is adifferent proposition. Set on 4000m2 (approx.), there are three bedrooms, one bathroom and an “L” shaped open plan living room and carport, all tucked neatly towards the front of the property allowing ample room for development.

This property is perfect for investors, land bankers, developers or someone looking for ahome, perhaps to extend, and aplace for alarge garden.

Property: Twohomes and twoacres in totalright next door to each other

Address: 50 and 52 Caroline Chisholm DriveKyneton

Sale: Expressions of interest- close 4pm TuesdaySeptember 24 unlesssoldbefore

Agent: RayWhite Kyneton

Contact: Nathanial Briggs 0400 820 805 Helen Jens 0404 834 926

Lovely views in all directions, gently undulating and private. This charming property,nestled in the picturesque countryside of Barfold must be one of the best value and most appealing properties to come to the market recently

This spacious home offers atranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, perfect for those seeking apeaceful country lifestyle with asizeable land holding with excellent pasture offering many options.

Situated on agenerous 7.717 ha (19.07 acres), this property has stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It is nestled high above the Campaspe River and affords water views and access, providing asense of serenity and privacy.Additionally, multiple dams and water tanks provide ample water supply all year round. There are multiple sheds including machinery sheds and garaging accommodation. Solar panels, solar hot water and double glazed windows are great climate control

additions to the house. The home is exceptionally insulated with polystyrene bats underfloor,3.5 bats in the ceiling and 2.5 bats in the exterior walls.

The delightful recently upgraded home features afunctional layout with multiple living areas. The kitchen is equipped with modern appliances and ample storage space making meal preparation abreeze and is open plan to the casual living and dining spaces with soaring high ceilings and featuring over-lights set high, which allows the sun to drench the space.

Four bedrooms or three and astudy plus two well-appointed bathrooms complete the home with the ensuite featuring alovely clawfoot bath.

Conveniently located near local amenities and schools, this property offers the best of both worlds -apeaceful rural setting with easy access to everyday conveniences, close to Redesdale and Heathcote and just over 15 minutes to Kyneton.

Property: Country lifestylewith views and privacyon19.07 acres (approx.) adjoining the Campaspe River

Address: 1807 Kyneton-Redesdale Road,Barfold

Price: $1,290,000 -$1,410,000

Agent: Raine &Horne

Contact: Jason Woodford-Smith 0478 000 441

SPRING SELLING SEASON IN THE MACEDON RANGES: WHATYOU NEED TO KNOW

Thedaffodilsare popping, and theblossom is blooming, it’s alsoa few degrees warmer, andafter a frosty winter we’re awakening from hibernation. As we tuck away thewoolly jumpers andpuffer jackets and turn the dial down on the heater,there’s awonderful feeling of excitementand anticipationinthe air– spring is here and so is thebustling selling season in our beautiful Macedon ranges.

At RayWhiteKyneton, one of themostfrequent questions we hear is: Whyisspringthe besttime to sell? In our experience, spring always brings out more buyers. The days are longer and warmer,and there’s asense of renewal and positivity in theair Across the Macedon Ranges, thekaleidoscope of blooms and emeraldlandscapesduring this time only adds to the region’s desirability.

Theother question we’re getting at themoment is: How is the market? There’s no denying thatweare in somewhat uncertain times, and whilerisinginflation andmortgageratesmight cause some hesitation, sellers can remain confident thatour localmarket is thriving.We’re still seeing properties coming to market, and homes areconsistently achieving impressiveresults. Thereal estate exuberance of thepast few yearswas nevergoing to last forever, andwhatwe’ve seen morerecently is market stabilisation and normalisation.

As our area continues to flourish,we’re attracting strong interest from buyers looking to enjoythe lifestyle thatthe Macedon Ranges has to offer. Withmanyyoung families anddownsizers being priced out of the Melbourne market theinflux of tree changers continues to grow.And with therise of workfrom home arrangements onlyset to increase in our technologicallyadvanced world, more and morepeopleare seeking out regionalVictoria, particularly theMacedon Ranges.

If you’re considering selling,spring andsummer are undoubtedly excellent seasons to makeyour move.However, don’t feel pressured by the calendar. The best time to sell is when it suitsyou and your family’s needs, such as aligning withaschool term or job change.

That said, springhas always been aprimetimetotest the market as it typically offers aquicker selling cycle andfavourable prices.

Here are sometipstohelp youdecide whether to sellthis spring or perhaps wait untilsummer:

ConsultRay White Kyneton

The economic landscape has shifted, impacting realestate demand. We understand buyer behaviours in the Macedon Ranges.

Prepare Your Home

Before launching aspring campaign,ensure your homeisready Addressany structural issues andmakethose quick fixes now,so your propertyshineswhen ithitsthe market.

Perfect Presentation

First impressions matter.Declutter your home, clean the windows, spruce up the garden,and consider afresh coat of paint where needed.

More Buyers, More Offers

With the increase in buyers during spring, you’re likelytoreceive more offers, creating healthycompetition.

Stay Competitive

Spring sees more properties on themarket, whichmeans more competition. Be prepared to negotiate on price and settlement datestosecure asale. Astrategic marketing campaigntargeting the right buyer demographicisessential.

Curb AppealCounts

Your home’sstreetappeal is invaluable. Agarden with abundant spring flowers can makearealimpact, drawingbuyers in from the moment theyarrive

Outdoor Entertainment

An inviting outdoor area is abig draw in spring and summer

Enhance your spacewith abarbecue area or addpot plants to liven up the garden.

Industrialopportunity

Offering approx. 4641m2 of sought after industrial land, this predominantly level parcel is only (approx.) 800m to the town centre and has easy access to the Midland and Pyrenees Highways.

The industrial 1zoning allows many functions in acentral location

The substantial shedding with high clearance is (approx.) 1165m2 in size and predominantly has a concreate floor

There is avariety of spaces allowing for anumber of independent functions within which offers flexibility for any number of businesses.

The zoning under the current Planning Scheme allows for abroad range of business models making for asimple set up and commencement process.

Address: 1Shadforth Street,Castlemaine Property: Industrial/warehouse.Central, substantial and industrial 1zoned

$900,000 -$990,000

•A

gardens, sheltered outdoor area, and alockup garage.

•Currently leased until 5th December 2024.

OFI: Saturday 7th August 12:00pm -12:30pm

OFI: Saturday 7th August 11:00am -11:30am

•Approx.2996m2

•Enjoyinganelevated position overlooking the Wesley Hill Market and beyond to Happy Valley and Moonlight Flat.

•All main services currently connected to the site with existing improvements ie. shedding, old residence/café with NO heritage overlays!

•Within afew minutes walk to walking trails and recreational amenities.

is located in ahighly sought-after pocket of Castlemaineand within walking distance of the train station, the central hub of Castlemaine for retail and restaurants and North Castlemaine Primary School and CastlemaineSecondary College.

One of a kind

Set on adistinctive corner block in one of Castlemaine’smostcoveted treelined streets, this extraordinary Victorian residence, ‘Roseleigh,’ showcases a mix of period grandeur,contemporary elegance and versatile design offering an exceptional lifestyle in an enviable location.

Beyond the timelessly appealing façade, you are welcomed by asophisticated interior that elegantly blends historic charm with modern comforts.

Enter along atessellated tile path which leads to wide, stone-paved return verandahs that exude asense of grandeur

Inside, two magnificent reception rooms, include alibrary-sitting room with an open fireplace and an expansive lounge-dining room with afireplace/wood heater.Both rooms are adorned with tall, double-hung windows that flood the spaces with natural light.

Rich period details such as ornate cornices, polished baltic pine floors, and meticulously tuck-pointed brickwork, preserve the home’sauthentic character

Four comfortable bedrooms and an additional office/study room with ample storage, cater to both comfort and functionality

Modern conveniences including gas ducted heating, quality window furnishings, and a4KW solar system, ensure year-round comfort and energy efficiency

Three well-appointed bathroom areas include an ensuite with awalk-in robe in the main bedroom, alarge family bathroom with abath and walk-in shower,and a practical laundry/mud room with an extra bathroom.

Asun-drenched dining area adjoining acontemporary kitchen, fully equipped with double-glazed windows, stone benchtops, adishwasher,stainless steel oven and agas cooking hob.

The private, north-facing patio space with stone paving and sun-awning is ideal for alfresco dining and entertaining.

Outside the period-style double carport with alock-up workshop and automatic gated entry,offerssecure and convenient vehicle accommodation. Conveniently located just ashort stroll from local shops, cafes, restaurants, andthe train station, this remarkable home is also close to the Kaweka-Kalimna wildflower parks, botanical gardens, and esteemed local schools, making it atrue prize in Castlemaine’sproperty landscape.

Property: Roseleigh c1878-1890doublebrick period prize

Address: 51 BerkeleyStreet, Castlemaine

Price: $1,575,000

Agent: Belle Property Castlemaine Contact: RobWaller 0418 571130 Blasi Mulholland 0417 311 733

Belle Property Castlemaineand Maldon.

4 a 3 b 2 v 1018r

Roseleigh c1878-1890 Double Brick period prize that's one of akind.

•Contemporary &period features throughout.

•Established

$1,575,000

Elevated

•4

$1,150,000

NELSON -Jeannie

Uncle RickNelson and the Nalderun executives and members sadly advise

Jeannie Nelson (nee Chapman) passed away suddenly on August 19th.

Sadly missed by all that knewher

KN279953/L

Remember themwith love

YERMAN -Irene

03.06.1950 -25.08.2024

Passed away peacefully at ElleryHouse after a battle with cancer

Belovedaunt of Michael and his wife Victoria. Great aunt to Deanna and William.

Fiercely independent, loving and generous, youlived your life your wayand accepted us forwho we are. Fore

Passed away peacefully at CastlemaineHospital on 27th August 2024 aged 77 years

Dearly lovedwifeand soulmate of Gerald (dec).

Lovingmother of Steve and Sharyn, mother in lawofSamantha and John. Much lovedNanna of Tabitha,Rhys, Isabella and William Loveddaughter of the late Evan and Bernice Thomas, sistertoJoan, Shirley,Nellie, Charlie (dec), Owen (dec) andMervyn. Asmilingface,a heart of gold, thedearest Mumthisworld could hold, on earthyou toiled, in Heavenyou rest, bless yo ethe best. Fo arts

KN280055/L

Peacefully on 24th August at Castlemaine Hospital aged 87 years. Devoted son of Stuart(Sam) and Irene Williamson (Chewton). Dearly lovedbrother of Bruce (dec), Robert(Bob) (dec), Dorothy, Wilbur (Bill), Lynda(dec) and brother in lawofLorraine and Max. Fondly remembered uncle of his nieces and nephews Respected Nurse and Midwife. At Stuart’srequest, aprivate cremation has been held. To leave apersonal message, please visit Stuart’stribute page on the website of Mount Alexander Funerals

Passed away peacefully at ElleryHouse on 25th August aged 74 years

Irene lovedold movies,books, her garden and agood chat. She lived lifeher way.

Aservice washeldfor Irene at the Fryerstown Cemetery on Monday2nd September

Foranopportunity to watch the service visit Irene’stribute page on the website of Mount Alexander Funerals

Prue passedawayon21st August 2024 at the age of 72 LovingwifetoGeoff, cherished mother to Ben and Anna, adored grandmother, family member and friendtomany. Adevoted teacherand avid gardener, afteraformidable battlewith cancer herfinalmoments were spent peacefully in Bendigo surrounded by and in the thoughts of those wholoveher The lifeand joycreatedby Prue’spresencewill be sadlymissed by thosefortunateenough to have experienced it.

Please joinusincelebrating the ever so speciallifeofour much lovedmother, wifeand dear friend Prue, on Thursday5th September between 2.00 and4.30pmat Balgownie Estate, 46 Hermitage Road,Maiden Gully She made an impact on so manypeopleand so manylives and we welcome all to join us In lieu of flowers please considera donation in memory of Prue to the Bendigo WellnessCentre Fordetailsvisit Prue’s tribute page on thewebsite of Mount AlexanderFunerals.

Funerals

ELLEN -DorothyJean (nee Lanyon)

Amemorial service will be held forDorothytocelebrate herlife on Friday,6 September at 2pm.

White Lady Funerals 741 High Street (Cnr Oswin Street), KewEastVIC

The service will be livestreamed.

Please contact White Lady Funerals, KewEast fordetails

Family and friends are invited to attend the funeral service for Mrs Sylvia Potts, to be held in the Chapel of Mount Alexander Funerals, 12 Campbell Street, Castlemaine on Thursday5th September at 11.00am. Following this service the cortege will leave forthe Castlemaine Cemetery. To join us via livestream, please visit Sylvia’stribute page on the website of Mount Alexander Funerals

NOTICE TO ALL ADVERTISERS

Section 29 of the FairTradingAct 1999 requires the inclusionofafullnameand address (not PO BoxNumber) –inall advertisements for the supplyofgoods and services.

ELLIOTT MIDLAND NEWSPAPERS advises all displayservice advertisements must comply with the above requirement to avoid prosecution, or provide those details to us to pass to the Dept. of Justice if requested.

Raymond Archibald

Ray’sfamilywould like to thank everyone for their visits,phone calls, cards,food, flowers, prayers, acts of kindness,attendance at his funeral service anddonations made to the PeterMcCallum Cancer Centre. It wasall very much appreciated.

MOLONEY

Eileen Margaret

25.8.2017 "Gram"

There is not aday thatgoes past without thoughtsofyou In all that Idream, in all that Ido. Those special memories of youwill alwaysbring asmile If only Icould have youbackfor just a little while,thenwe could sit andtalk again just likewe

Our wonderful man waslaid to rest Forall of us he did his best Sadlywemisshim everyday Butwewon’tlet our memories fade away

Dearly lovedand foreverinour hearts

WifeJean and daughters Lynlee and Carol and their families

We

Shae,Chris,Chloeand Eli xxx

You’re alwaysin ourhearts; miss youmore than ever mum Blairexo

Thinking of youalways, foreverinour hearts

Caleb,Erin, McKenzie,Taylah and Coreyxxoo Mum/Nan

Missingyou more and

KN280056/L

Castlemaine 5470 5951

SylviaPotts

Sylvia LynettePotts

KN280071/L

Prudence Alexandra Sayer

Bendigo

KN280060

KN279940/L

NOBLE

Irene Yerman

HEALY

Kelvyn, Kath &Alex Bowe alongwith Vin, Kay, Jim and Jordan, are so happyand proud to announce to family and friends the safearrival of Thomas Cillian Healy into the loving arms of Mitch and Madeline at 8.55am on 27.8.24. Both Madeline and Thomas (3.571kg) are doing well xx We would also liketo thank the wonderful staff at Bendigo Base Hospital Maternity ward. Thanks Mitch &Mad oxox

Patch

REWARD

The 2024 Annual General Meeting of the Kyneton AeroClubInc. (A0028479Z) will be held at the Club Rooms 1503 Kyneton-Metcalfe Rd, Kyneton VIC 3444, on Sunday6th Oct, 2024 commencing at 11:00pm in the KACTraining room

Employment

•CyberSecurityAnalyst, Full time

•Coordinator Public and Environmental Health, Full time

•Rates Support Officer, Full time Learn more:mountalexander.vic.gov.au or phone54711700.

KN280034/L

Working together for ahealthy, connected shire

$1,000.00 offered forconfidential information n leading to the recovery of a stolen item and the arrest and conviction of the offender(s). Alarge,two-meter diameter metal fire pit on aseparate stand wasstolenfrom a property in Castlemaine sometime between December 2023 and January2024. If youhaveany information, please contact your localpolice or email: firepitreward@ gmail.com 24 Langlsow Street Castlemaine. P: 5472 5277 |maaw.org.au Mon -Sat 10-2 -Sun Closed

LIONS Clu b Fathers Day Rafflle:1st JD -Kyneton 2nd KBunn -Tylden 3rd Maxine -Elphinstone Drawn by amember from Whole Life Pharmacy, Kyneton. On behalf of the Lions Club thank you to all who participated.

Blindness awareness presentations forschools and community groups Assistance with technology and Braille forblind and vision impaired people Brailletranscription and web accessability testing Disability awareness and advocacy 0438 542

mickmate94@gmailcom

Big Tree Distillery NowHiring! Local, reliable, mature-minded weekend staff wanted forfarmers markets &distillerydoor. Casual, 12 hrs/wk, possibleperm part-time. Must be 18+ with RSA Retail experience aplus, great attitude essential. Love of gin abonus! Email CV/questions: diana@bigtreedistillery. com.au

KN279773/L

MEREDITH SHUMACK LLB (Hons) Is joining the firmand will accept instructions, including in Family Law, commencing Wednesday21August 2024. Contact reception on 03 5422 1677 or reception@acdlawyers.com.au foranappointment. 140 Mollison Street Kyneton, 3444

your pre

be downloaded by visiting Council's website under ‘Tenders and Quotations’.

Please direct enquiries to Michael Billington, Procurement Officer,on(03) 5471 1700. Darren Fuzzard, Chief Executive Officer

CLASSIFIEDS

KYNETON

Collins Newsagency -Mollison St

CASTLEMAINE

AmpolService Station -Johnstone Street

Express Office -Market Street

Fika Café

Kyneton Home Hardware

Kyneton IGA

Kyneton /Daylesford Drycleaners

Watts Fresh -Mollison Street

EG Ampol Petrol Station

MALMSBURY

General Store

REDESDALE /LANGLEY

General Store

TRENTHAM /TYLDEN

IGA Country Store

General Store

WOODEND /CARLSRUHE

IGA Woodend

Newham Store

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

Newsagency

Property Management Macedon Ranges

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 -Barker Street

Jellis Craig -Mostyn Street

Lyal Eales -Barker Street

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 -MainStreet

Maldon Information Centre

Baringhup Store

Mountain bikeridersready

Castlemaine Secondary College and the Castlemaine Rocky Riders Mountain Bike Club are excited to be joining forces to host stage four of the Victorian Schools Mountain Bike Series this Saturday September 7. The five race series includes events at Dromana, the YouYangs near Geelong, Listerfield and Spring Gully in Bendigo.

This is the first time Castlemaine has hosted the event. It will be amountain bike race with a difference, with the track being amix of cross country and urban riding. Castlemaine Rocky Riders member Sally Meville said participants would ride both trails through the bushlands of Kalimna Park and the school grounds of Castlemaine Secondary College.

“Castlemaine Secondary College’syear11 Outdoor Ed students have been excited to have the opportunity to get hands on with preparations for the event having mapped and designed areally fun course during their Outdoor Edclasses and their lunch times,” she said.

There is adivision to suit riders of various experience levels. With ashorter course for the U9 and U11, and categories for males and females in each age level for experienced racers and novice riders wanting to give racing agofor the first time or just have some fun with their mates.

“The young Castlemaine riders who regularly race this annual event are excited to have been involved in the organising of the local race, and having ahome ground advantage and the chance to test out the track while mapping it out,” Sally said. The first races of the day the U9 Boys and Girls start at 9am at the Castlemaine Secondary College. Registration starts at 8am and riders can also have achance to warm up on the track before racing starts.

Entry is $30 via the link entryboss.cc/ races/21754 or by visiting the Castlemaine Rocky Rider FB page.

Town &District

GOLF results

CASTLEMAINE

There was aclose finish in Saturday’smedley par event.

Garry Moore (14) was the overall and A-grade winner on +2, from Klai Jermyn (1) +1. VinWalsh (16) topped B-grade with +1, on acountback from Ross Stevens.

Thursday stableford: Norm Bellis (10) 40 points, from Gavin Lang (9) 36 and Harald Domanski (14) on 35.

GISBORNE

The last day of winter attracted 161 participants to the four-ball best-ball stableford event. Des the McMaster and Ian who Fostered his inner strength were the winners with 45 points.

On Wednesday,the ladies held their 4BBB stableford in wild and windy conditions. Lynne Smith and Sue Cautley won with 40 points. And some advance notice –there’sanother ‘Get Into Golf’ program coming up in early October

KYNETON

Bolton Motorcycles sponsored Saturday’sstableford, and two players produced exceptional scores despite the windy conditions.

The best tally of the day came from Col Hanna (31) with 44 points in C-grade, from David Austin (18) on 38.

Ivan Smolic (170 had 41 to top B-grade from David Austin (18) on 18, and Jesper Hansen (9) topped A-grade with 35, on acountback from TimKirk (9).

NTPs went to Louis Thompson, Regan Williams, Peter Walsh, Harrison Huntley and Mick McQualter –also super pin.

Wednesday stableford (white tees): Ross Martin (10) with 37, one clear of Ross Foreman.

Denise Murphy (18) led in the ladies with 29. The Grandmother’sTrophy was up for grabs on Tuesday,with Jane Stanley (37) an easy winner with 37 points from Julie McKellar (32) on 31.

Marian Orr (33) was the non-Grannie winner with 37 points fro Grace Parkinson (28) on 26. Lorraine Ryan and Deidre Dawes were the NTPs.

LANCEFIELD

The Women’sWinter Warmer competition held over the last three months was decided on the final day –last Wednesday

Points were allocated for playing, and split among the top five finishers each week.

Agreat variety of layouts were utilised, and the event was spread over 9, 10, 11,13, 14 or 18 holes.

Sandra Stevens left it to the last round to card 14 points and finished marginally ahead of Marlane Pattinson and Glenda Bentley.Stevens rocketed to the overall lead with 34 points, followed by Anne Robinson 32, Patinson 31 and Hayzel Laycock 28. Lunch followed at the Lost Watering Hotel where presentations were made. Good to see some of the newer members competing on Thursdays. Mark Bulla (18) won with 35 pots last week, from Ross Farrar (16) 34 and Alberto Veloso (20) 32. Saturday saw Farrar to the fore with 34 points, with Colin Thomas (15) runner-up on acountback. Legends: Ed Godek (15) 35 points, with Barry Flentjar (23) second on a countback with 32.

MOUNT MACEDON

Fiendish strong winds and brutal pin placements guaranteed an unforgiving monthly medal contest on Saturday

Only Mark Shepherd tamed the conditions with 89-24-65 and 2under his handicap to land the medal and C-grade prize.

No-one else came close to playing to their handicap.

Darcy Doyle 76-5-61 had the best gross score, backing up his previous win to top A-grade again on acountback to Paul Burrows 81-10-71.

Mike Holmes 88-16-72 won B-grade from Kevin Taylor 91-18-73.

Hayden Phillips was on target with three NTPs, Doyle had two and Phil Thomas one. Afour-person Ambrose with aminimum of three drives each produced aclose contest between all four teams on Wednesday

Victory went to Joel Scanlon (10), Mike Hoiles (10), Peter Watson (23) and Terry Penney (38) with 66-10.75-55.25.

Grade NTPswent to Penney and Mark Burrage.

ROMSEY

Intermittent rain and wind gusts from 35kph to 45kph tested the August medal field on Saturday

Irrespective, some golfers turned in respectable scores by playing close to their handicaps.

In aclose finish Zac Scales 110-36-74 edged out Simon Donovan 84-10-74 on a countback, with David Jones 99-23-76 in third place.

NTPs went to Donovan, Scott Williams and longest drive winner Davey Kenney Williams had the least putts (29).

Difficult and fluctuating conditions on Wednesday were combated to adegree. Another close finish saw Sherif Abdel-Sayed 104-28-76 edg out David Jones 95-1976 on acountback, with Lorraine Robb108-29-79 third.

Jenny Hartley had the least putts (29).

TRENTHAM

The men’sand women’scompetitions were combined into three grades due to the wild weather on Saturday

Anne Roberts (33 handicap) had the best tally of 41 points for the day

Richard Cooke won A-grade with 36, two clear of Martin Walker,and B-grade went to Peter McBride with 40.

Last Thursday,Gary Middleton was the star with 41 points.

WOODEND

Despite brutal northerlies on Saturday,26pairs turned out for the Get Back Into Golf American 4BBB medley

Mark Hutchison –Andrew Davies were the winners with afine 62.625, from Julian Feng –Mal Coombs 65.125.

NTPs –Grant Davies (2) and Danny Bellchambers.

The final round of the Sunday TinCup spread over eight weeks resulted in anarrow win for Michelle Jacovac with 78 points (four best scores), from Ben Thompson who made alate charge on 77, and Glenn Wright and Jim O’Brien 76.

Tuesday stableford: Denis Barker (12) 37 points, on acountback from Mick Giddings.

Quincy and Angus from Castlemaine Rocky Riders are pictured checking out the course before race day.

Castlemaine Secondary College Outdoor Ed student Flynn works on some course maintenance in the lead up to the event.

OBesanko BZarbD McGrathSLindsay

Romsey:NHoy 3AFlavel2

GOALS: Kyneton: ANolte3O Twaits 2JSmith 2NClapham. Wallan: AMoore2ZBell DColdrey BEST: Kyneton: ANolteJ Smith JJohnston BRyanB Muir OPlunkett.Wallan: AMoore JWilkes-O’Brien JKennedy ZBell JCharlton DColdrey

Seniors

(27) GOALS: Maldon: RCarmichael 3CBuchanan. BEST: Maldon: DConnell RCarmichael LJosey LDavey BNeveF Rowbottom

Maldon: ATurner 2CBuchanan HGardner Trott BDoyle TCananzi BDickens BEST: Maldon: TCananzi C Buchanan BDoyle ATurner HGardner Trott RDavey

Riddellinbox seat

Bill West

On Saturday,Riddell senior footballers enhanced their reputation as hot favourites for the 2024 premiership by advancing straight to the grand final.

While coach Aaron Bray has never coached in agrand final before, he is very comfortable that the Bombers can deliver the goods.

Wild, wet and windy conditions put awhole new perspective on the second semi-final between Riddell and Wallan, played at Romsey

For the first three quarters it was awar of attrition, with goals ascarce commodity

The Bombers did well defensively to restrict the Magpies to one goal in the first term, and at half-time the scoreboard showed 2.8 to 1.2, with the game wide open for either side to seize opportunities.

At the last change, Riddell led by six points, with the advantage of kicking to what appeared to be the scoring end coming up.

The Bombers, with the prize of a grand final appearance virtually in their grasp, never relented.

Breaking the game open, they kicked six last quarter goals to one by the Magpies.

The 8.10 (58) to 3.5 (23) scoreline did not necessarily reflect the full-on tussle which had taken place for much

of the match.

Having recruited strongly,Riddell has aside laced with experienced players who know what to do.

The "imports" obtained for this season have generally proved their worth.

Coach Bray has had plenty to work with, and the Bombers are keeping the lid on expectations with the knowledge that anything can happen in grand finals.

As someone pointed out, Jacana lost aRiddell League semi-final to Wallan by15goals, then came out and beat the Magpies in agrand final, before departing to the Essendon District League.

Riddell does nothave injury problems, and it is hard to see Wallan, or Macedon –whichever wins the preliminary final at Kyneton this Saturday –causing an upset.

Jacob Chahine and Ben Sonogan were strong in defence for the winners, captain Josh Grabham stopped the Magpies getting any sustained ruck advantage, and Matt Darby used his experience to advantage.

For the Magpies, ex-AFL player Jake Carlisle and Bowen Medal winner Steve Boyall were prominent.

Coach Daniel Nolan needs to weave some magic if the Magpies are goingto cause an upset –that is, if they can firstly overcome surprise packet Macedon in the preliminary final.

Giants in grand finals

Gisborne Giants had agood day in football and netball at Romsey on Saturday

Top-of-the-ladder Giants led for much of their U19.5 football match to defeat arch-rival Macedon by five points.

Final scores were 4.11to4.6, with Lucas Mousley,Nick Bootle, Archie Forrester,Austin Burnell, Declan Woods and Sam Scarlett all playing well for the winners.

The Cats' best were Adam Horton, Tajh O'Brien, Hud Elmawey, Shane Emery,Alec McGregor and Sonny Freeman.

In aclose D-grade netball contest, Giants 26 (Holly Mason 19, Eloise Maxwell 7) defeated Riddells Creek 23 (Ashleigh Danckert 14, Elli Houston 9).

The Giants are eagerly looking forward to grand final day September 13 is the deadline for expressions of interest fro those who may be interested in coaching Giants junior football teams (U9 to U17) next season.

Seniors

BBernackiD Johnstone PMcKenna FLakey LSpear BBlake

GOALS: Harcourt: XStone 8J Moresi 5L McKay3 RBarnett KWaddington HGeorge JArcher.Maldon: ZTurner 2. BEST: Harcourt: JMoresiXStone LMcKay JArcher JDorian JMuscat. Maldon: JSmith FWalls JJennings ATurner E Dickens

GOALS: Castlemaine: MMcKnight2 JNuttall BRobinson

TVellacott KMartin BVan egmond BEST: Castlemaine: C Mclennan MMcKnightBRobinson JNuttall RMuscatPLeathem.

GISBORNE

GOALS: Gisborne: LHannon2 JFloreani LEvans BEST:

Gisborne: LHannon LEvans JFloreani AStelma WMackay

Prelim finals at Kyneton

Kyneton Showgrounds is the venue for the Riddell District Football Netball League'spreliminary finals this Saturday,September 7.

Kyneton Football Netball Club is very pleased to behosting the matches in its first season with all its teams in the RDFNL.

An added incentive for Kyneton supporters to go along is the Tigers' Under 19.5 footballers are playing Macedon for the right to reach the grand final, where Gisborne Giants await.

The senior match is between surprise packet Macedon and Wallan, with the winner to play Riddell in the grand final.

In the Reserves, Wallan meet Diggers Rest.

There'salso plenty of action in the various netball preliminary finals, with Riddell taking on Wallan in top grade. Reigning premiers Woodend-Hesket is already through tothe grand final.

The Kyneton club will be in charge of the bar and canteen and barbecue.

Tigersgoing well

Kyneton Under 19.5 footballers are still in the finals.

They combined well to defeat Wallan by 35 points at Gilbert Gordon Oval on Sunday morning.

Angus Nolte, with plenty of senior experience this season, was one of the Tigers' stars, finishing with three goals.

The game was wide open at half time, but the Tigers lifted their intensity in the second half.

To restrict the Magpies to asolitary point in the second half was an awesome performance.

The preliminary final awaits the young Tigers at the Showgrounds on Saturday

They will play last season'spremiers, Macedon.

Kyneton'sbest were Nolte, Jesse Smith, Joshua Johnson, Bailey Ryan, Brady Muir and Oliver Plunkett.

Aaron Bray in charge of the Bombers.

Angus Nolte, pictured in action during an interleague match earlier this year, had agreat game for the Under 19.5s.

Photo: J8 Photography

Lions claw to awin

Harcourt has kept its hopes of attaining athird consecutive Maryborough Castlemaine District Football Netball League premiership alive by defeating adetermined Carisbrook in semi final 2atPrinces Park on Sunday

The Lions opened their account with a three-goal haul in the first term and held the Redbacks to one goal to lead by 13 points at quarter-time.

The second term was amore even affair with the Lions kicking another two goals, while Brook kicked one to trail by 20 points at half-time.

The Redbacks lifted in the third term and struck areal purple patch dabbing through another four goals to bridge the gap, but the Lions kicked two to retain an eight-point advantage at the final change.

The Lions, sensing the Redbacks' hunger for finals success, lifted in the last term finding that something extra to bag three important goals while holding Brook to just one straight kick and run out deserving winners by 22 points.

Braydon Vazand Riley Thiesz were among the standouts for the Lions.

Harcourt will now tackle Natte Bealiba in this Saturday'spreliminary final 1clash for aspot in the grand final and ashot at their third consecutive flag.

In semi final 1atPrinces Park on Saturday,Lexton defeated avaliant Dunolly by 21 points to earn the opportunity to face offagainst the in-form Trentham in this Sunday'spreliminary final 2clash at Princes Park.

In the Reserves, Maldon bowed out of the finals race after going down to Carisbrook by 24 points in Saturday'ssemi final 1. In semi final 2onSunday Talbot defeated Lexton by 15 points. Talbot now faces Harcourt in this Saturday'spreliminary final 1bout at Princes Park and in preliminary final 2onSunday Natte Bealiba plays Carisbrook.

In the 17.5s football, Maldon has won its way through to this Sunday'spreliminary final 2bout against the Maryborough Giants after they defeated Navarre by 27 points. Carisbrook also had abig win over Lexton and will now face Natte Bealiba in preliminary final 1this Saturday

In 14.5s football, Harcourt has secured its spot in this Saturday'spreliminary final 1contest against Carisbrook after astrong win over Maldon to the tune of 114points. Natte Bealiba defeated Navarre and will take on Avoca in preliminary final 2.

In 11.5sfootball, Avoca defeated Trentham by 18 points ending the young Saints finals campaign and Natte Bealbia defeated Navarre.

This Saturday,Newstead will tackle Avoca in preliminary final 1and Carisbrook take on Natte Bealiba in preliminary final 2

Sunday

Netball

On the netball court in AGrade, Lexton 49 defeated Carisbrook 42. No result was available for the bout between the Maryborough Giants and Talbot at the time of going to press. Lexton will now face Natte Bealiba and Avoca will take on the winner of the second clash.

In BGrade, Harcourt went down in a tough game against the Maryborough Giants 48-25. While it wasn’t their day,the Lions fought to the very end and look forward to bouncing back in 2025. Best on for the Lions was Suzie Rinaldi. In the second match Carisbrook defeated Navarre. This weekend, Natte Bealiba plays Carisbrook and Avoca takes on Maryborough Giants.

In CGrade, Trentham 39 defeated Lexton 19. Best on for the Saints was Kasey Evans.

Natte Bealiba 55 defeated Newstead 15 bringing their finals campaign to aclose. Best for the Steaders was Melea Casboult. In this weekend'spreliminary finals Maryborough Giants take on Natte Bealiba and

Trentham faces Avoca Sunday

In 17 &Under,Harcourt 35 defeated Carisbrook 33 in anail biter to make their way into Sunday'spreliminary final against fellow local contenders Maldon. And Natte Bealiba beat Avocatomake the final against Maryborough Giants.

15 &Under contests saw Harcourt account for Maryborough Giants 24-18 to win the right to play Talbot in this Sunday's preliminary,while Maldon went down to Lexton by just five goals ending their season. Lexton will now face Natte Bealiba.

13 &Under saw Newstead 15 defeat Natte Bealiba 11 to move into thepreliminary on Sunday against Carisbrook, while the Giants defeated Dunolly.Maryborough will now play AvocainSaturday's prelim.

Newstead's 11 &Under netballers were thrilled to defeat the Maryborough Giants to progress to this Sunday'spreliminary final against Avoca, while in the second match of the weekend Natte Bealiba defeated Talbot and will now play Navarre in Saturday's final.

Over-50s athletes proveage no barrier

More than 500 athletes, volunteers and spectators in their 50s to 80s —including ateam of 22 from Woodend —will line up to prove age is no barrier to competing on the sporting field at the GemLife Games on the Sunshine Coast on September 5 and 6.

Competitor numbers have almost doubled for the games’ second year,with participants from South-East Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria to battle it out in eight sports –tennis, pickleball, table tennis, ten-pin bowling, eight-ball pool, golf simulator,lawn bowls and swimming.

While some have played for decades, others describe themselves as ‘rank

amateurs’ having taken up their sport mere weeks ago, but all have one thing in common —a desire to give it ago, have fun and meet new people.

An initiative of over-50s developer GemLife, the inter-resort event will be held at its GemLife Palmwoods community on the Sunshine Coast.

Rick Mortellaro, 63, from GemLife Woodend is among the team who will travel north to Queensland to compete, taking part in ten-pin bowling, while his wife Barbara, 70, will volunteer Rick said he took up bowling when he moved to the resort about two years ago and was looking forward to the competition —although wasn’t ‘at liberty’ to reveal

Playbadminton

Kyneton Badminton Club provides awelcoming atmosphere for players from Macedon Ranges and beyond, andfor all skill levels.

The club has been operating for several years, playing this fun and physical activity

Members play at the Kyneton Toyota Sports and Aquatic Centre in Victoria Street on Monday nights from 7pm. Newcomers are welcome to go along and try it out as there are spare racquets available and members are happy to provide coaching and advice.

If you would like to know more, email kynetonbc@gmail. com or call 5422 3057.

his average score.

“I want the element of surprise,” he laughed.

“I really took to it and enjoy playing. We have Wednesday night here where about six of us get together and play afew games, while the ladies play Scrabble, so it is areal social evening.

“This is our first time entering a competition like this, so we’re practising in the hopes of taking them all on in Queensland.

“My understanding, though, is the games are all about camaraderie and meeting other like-minded residents and we’re looking forward to that opportunity just as much.”

Topgoals

Dean Galea is the top goalkicker in the Riddell League at the end of the 2024 home and away matches.

The veteran goalkicker crossed to Riddell this season and brought up his 2000th career goal during the season, which netted him 50 goals. Galea now has his sights set on apremiership.

Former multiple league top goalkicker Matthew Perri (Wallan) was runner-up with 36goals, and Macedon's Jason Cooke was third on 31 after an injury-interrupted season.

In the Reserves, Romsey spearhead Nathan Hoy was arunaway winner with 62 goals, ahead of Kaiden Broomfield (Wallan) on31.

In the Under 19.5s, Jack Clough (Gisborne Giants) and Fintan Light tied with 32 goals apiece, with Indy Williamson (Kyneton), Lincoln Brauman (Riddell) and Marcus Dalton (Wallan) all finished with 26 majors.

Charlotte Noonan (Macedon) ended the season with 51 goals in the senior women'scompetition, and played abig part in the premiership success for the Cats.

Rising Guns

Speculation is mounting as to which young footballer will end up with the Riddell League'sSteve Turner Rising Gun award for season 2024.

Eligible players must have played their under-age football in the RDFNL, and must be aged under 23 and not played more than 15 senior games at the start of the season.

Macedon has four players nominated by senior opposition coaches –Brad Cooke, Ed Ferguson, Lachlan Hay and Joseph Barham. Romsey has three –Connor Bills, Ethan Beer and Oscar Schnoor

Other nominees are Monte White and Cooper Duff-Tytler (Woodend-Hesket), DarcyGiles and Leroy Ristevski (Lancefield), Riley Gilchrist and Owen Fowler (Romsey), Caleb Higgins and Dylan McDonald (Melton Centrals), Jacob Chahine (Riddell), Calam Bowman (Kyneton), and Logan Carroll (Diggers Rest).

Rick Mortellaro from GemLife Woodend is among the team who will travel north to Queensland to compete.

Harcourt’s BGrade sidehas bowed out after another top season.

Rangers’ womentosemi-finals

The long road trip to Moama for the Kyneton Rangers women'sDiv 2team was not in vain, as they battled out their opponents, Strathfieldsaye Colts. As the Moama winds howled across the pitch causing havoc, and at times reaching 40km/h, the women did their best to keep the third opponent at bay across the 90 minutes. Kyneton took good advantage of the wind, opting to shoot with it in the first half after captain, Bec Cole, won the toss.

In afinals match-up where keeper,JoMitchell, was expecting to be on the ball alot, she was held out the back between the posts with little challenges from the opposition's forwards. The backline, Lucy Hebborn, Simone Hooppell, Kim 'Dicko' Dickins, Lucy 'OG' Campbell, made sure they maintained asolid defence and worked with the wind to carry

Under 14 girls valiant in defeat

The Kyneton Rangers Maroon Under 14 girls faced atough challenge in Saturday’selimination final against Epsom.

With defenders from both teams putting in 110per cent, neither team could break through their opponents' defence and the first half ended with neither team scoring.

The second half saw more shots at goal from both teams, with Epsom kicking the first goal early in the second half.

Kyneton answered shortly after with asensational penalty goal from Charlie T, evening up the game, culminating in a1/ 1draw at full time.

So, into extra time the match went, with no score in the first extra time period. Epsom managed to hit the back of the net late in the second extra time period, and despite steadfast determination and afight to the end, the Rangers could not hit the back of the net a second time. Coming away with aloss, this marks the end to their season.

The girls should be congratulated for their efforts with aseason marked with injury and illness, they did an amazing job getting to the finals, led by the wonderful coaches, Chrissy and Jeff. The girls are looking forward to going deeper into the finals in 2025.

balls up the pitch. In the midfield, coach Ron Cole rotated around Emily

Minson (1 goal), Beth Houghton, Rebecca Cole, Lenka Thompson, Remy

ensuring there were fresh legs on the park to help move the play around. And the stellar forward line were relentless in their passion to get scores on the board to advance the team to the next round. Sian Hooppell (6 goals), Isha Kuyateh (1 goal), Molly Wilding (2 goals), Samara Gelbart shared the goal scoring love around and made good ofmost of the passes and assists coming from the rest of the team ensuring awhopping win against the Strathfieldsaye Colts 10-0.

Kyneton'swomen'steam now advances to the semi-finals against the Border Raiders next Sunday September 8, 11am.

The Kyneton Rangers Maroon Under 14 girls with their coaches Chrissy and Jeff.

Photo: Samantha Fidler

Gloyns, Miranda

McTaggart,

Winning Kyneton Div 2team at the elimination finals on the weekend.

Back row (L to R): Ron Cole (coach), Mirand Minson, Emily Gloyns, Simone Hooppell, LucyHebborn, Beth Houghton, Remy McTaggart, Kim Dickins, Front row: Sian Hooppell, Isha Kuyateh, LucyCampbell, JoMitchell,Bec Cole(captain), Lenka Thompson, Samara Gelbart, Molly Wilding.

Three in five days!

Bill West

Three different Kyneton racehorse trainers came up with winners last week.

"Good luck to them, it was great to see the locals doing well," Kyneton and Hanging Rock District Racing Club's vice-president, Ashley Fraser, said.

Fraser, alocal sporting connoisseur, said he was particularly pleasing to see owner-trainer Aftab Shaikh finally land his first winner after having had 51 previous starters.

The trifecta of local winners began at Seymour last Tuesday when Charles Cassar saddled up Eskimo with veteran jockey Brad Rawiller aboard.

The four-year-old, raced by new stable client Li Yong, started as an $11 chance and scored his second career win from seven outings. Rawiller always had Eskimo in a prime position and he went on to win by 0.8 lengths.

The race was the Robyn M. Kelly Memorial Handicap.

Based on afarm at Pipers Creek, Cassar has held a trainer's licence since 1994, with his first winner being Skytell.

AT BENDIGO

Core Concept was purchased for $130,000, and connections are hopeful he lives up to early promise.

At Bendigo on Thursday, the four-year-old trained by Mark Ashby was having his first run for 22 weeks. Ashby often has avery small number of gallopers, and Core Connect was ridden in good style by local apprentice Danica Munro, who claimed 3kg.

Settling back in the field, Core Concept made ground steadily, got to the front and held off the fast finishing favourite at the end of the sprint race.

It was the galloper's second win from seven outings.

Owner of Core Concept is Mark Upton, aformertrainer andhorseman who is good friends with Ashby.

The duo often attend trackwork at Kyneton, and work at Widden Stud, at Monegeetta.

FIRST WINNER

Saturday was aday local trainer and track rider Aftab Shaikh will always remember.

Shaikh rides work for several local trainers, including Cassar, and he owns and trains five-year-old Kilmister who was having his eleventh start when he ran at Warracknabeal on Saturday.

The five-year-old had finished fourth at his two previous country runs, and Seamus Cronin was in the saddle.

Trainer Liam Howley looking forward to Sunday’s Open Day at Macedon Lodge.

Open Dayat Macedon Lodge

Here'sagreat chance to inspect the world class thoroughbred horse training facility Macedon Lodge –and it'sfree.

Many have heard or read about Macedon Lodge, but this Sunday, August 8, there'sanexclusive opportunity for racing fans to inspect the property and see high quality gallopers in the flesh.

The open day incorporates well known Macedon Ranges based trainer Liam Howley'sseason launch, following on from last year's well supported open day at Howley'sKyneton stables.

There have been four Melbourne Cup winners trained from Macedon Lodge –New Zealander Ethereal preceding Efficient, Green Moon and Almandin.

Macedon Lodge opened as aracehorse training facility in 2000, before being purchased by highly prominent owner Lloyd Williams in 2007.

Liam Howley spent 10 years working at Macedon Lodge for Lloyd Williams, and now trains from there and the Howley Racing Kyneton stables on the fringe of the racecourse.

Macedon Lodge is located at 79 Tucketts Road, Mount Macedon, and Sunday'sopen day will be from 10.30am to 12.30pm.

Those interested in going along should act quickly,asspots are strictly limited. RSVPs are amust; email Mike at <communications@ liamhowley.com> with your name and mobile contact number to secure your place.

Understandably, Shaikh received plenty of congratulations on breaking through with his first winner.

Near perfection finals football

After winning the 2022 grand final, then missing finals last season, Gisborne senior footballers are on amission in the Bendigo League's 2024 finals series.

The Bulldogs outclassed Strathfieldsaye by 55 points in the qualifying final at the Queen Elizabeth Oval on Saturday

The performance was spearheaded by five goals apiece to the classy Pat McKenna and Dylan Johnstone.

The Bendigo-based premiership aspirants must have sat up and taken notice, although they are all well aware of Gisborne'scapabilities this season.

There'saburning desire among the Rob Waters-coached lineup to make amends for aforgettable 2023.

Strathfieldsaye defeated Gisborne by 23 points in round 16, meaning Sandhurst finished on top of the ladder with Gisborne in second place. It was Gisborne's turn for redemption.

Saturday'sstrong effort delighted the Bulldog supporters who travelled north to Bendigo.

The Storm led early,but kicking to the scoring end, Gisborne kicked six goals to two points to almost take aniron grip on the outcome.

The third quarter was the only one where The Storm really worried the 'Dogs, kicking six goals straight to cut the deficit to 19 points atthe last change.

Gisborne had ahandy buffer of 27 points by half-time, and in the last quarter the 'Dogs ran riot to slam onseven goals.

Final scores were 18.17 (125) to 10.10 (70).

Prolific ball winner Brad Bernacki is aclass act, and once again he knocked upgetting possessions.

Bernacki showed he is set for a fine finals series.

Lively forwards Johnstone and McKenna kept The Storm defenders busy,Flynn Lakey produced his ever-consistent brand of football, and Liam Spear and key ruckman Braidon Blake also did enough to finish on the 'best' list.

In the elimination final on Sunday,Golden Square 12.10 (82) defeated Eaglehawk 6.15 (51).

Gisborne now play Sandhurst in the second semi-final at the QEO on Saturday

The Gisborne Reserves, who finished on top of the ladder,also

play Sandhurst. UNDER 18s GO DOWN

Gisborne Under 18s finished third onthe ladder,but found second-placed Golden Square far too strong in the qualifying final.

Final scores were 11.9 (75) to 4.4 (28).

Gisborne failedtoscore goals in the second and finalquarters. Best players for the Bulldogs were Lucas Hannon, Lachlan Evans, Jacob Floreani, August Steima and WilhemMackay

Gisborne Under 18s now play Castlemaine in the first semi-final at 10.15am this Sunday

Prolific Gisborne ball winner Brad Bernacki once again knocked up possessions.

Bill West

From barrier 1, Cronin gave Kilmister –a $8.50 chance –time to settle. He went to the front and ran on strongly to win the 1205m Maiden by 2.8 lengths.

Impressive run: The Mark Ashby-trained Core Concept, on the rails, holds on to win at Bendigo at his first start for 22 weeks.

Photo: Brett Holburt/Racing Photos

Magpies swoop into finals

The future is bright for Castlemaine Football Netball Club with three of its young sides taking the next step in their respective finals campaigns last weekend.

The Magpie Under 18s hit the Queen Elizabeth Oval on Sunday in the elimination final showdown against Kangaroo Flat in what was the club'sfirst Bendigo Football Netball League finals appearance for afootball side in 14 years.

Both teams took awhile to settle their nerves and get into the contest with seven behinds registered before the Magpies finally got agoal on the board offthe boot of Timon Vellacott.

Kangaroo Flat soon bounced back with three of their own to hold a15-point lead at quarter-time.

The Magpies rallied in the second term with two goals to arampaging Mitchell McKnight and one to Kyan Martin whilst the defence held Flat to just two points.

At half-time Castlemaine had turned the tables and held anarrow three-point lead.

The third quarter descended into a real scrap as both teams fought for the upper hand. Kangaroo Flat managed to grab 1.5 whilst Castlemaine only secured two points and trailed by agoal at the final change.

Castlemaine nabbed another goal early in the fourth term but Flat continued to pepper the sticks grabbing vital points. Chaz Holman kicked avital goal for the Magpies, but Flat soon found one in the reply offthe boot of Xavier Coghill to keep the Roos in touch.

As the clock wound down Jack Nuttall stood up kicking the match winning goal for the Magpies to get them over the line by eight points. Castlemaine 7.9 (51) to Kangaroo Flat 5.13 (43). The side has now secured aspot in this Sunday's

First Semi Final against Gisborne at the Queen Elizabeth Oval at 10.15am.

Meanwhile the Castlemaine Magpies Under 16R1 side have booked aspot in the Bendigo Junior Football Netball League grand final.

The Castlemaine side finished on top of the table and faced second placed Huntly in last Sunday'ssemi final 2at North Bendigo Oval.

The Hawks took the game right up to the highly fancied Magpies but the Castlemaine boys kept their cool and cruised to a24-point victory at the final siren. Castlemaine 10.8 (68) to Huntly 5.14 (44). The Magpies securing their spot in the grand final showdown on Sunday September 15. Huntly will now look to bounce back when they tackle Strathfieldsaye in this Sunday'spreliminary final.

The Castlemaine Magpies Under 15 Junior Netball Development Squad is also offtothe BSNA Grand Final after a top performance against Strathfieldsaye Tsunami last Friday evening. In afastpaced clash, Castlemaine made the most of their opportunities to net aseven goal win 40-33. They now face the Eaglehawk Eagles in this Friday evening'sgrand final at the Golden City Netball Courts. The girls will hit the court at 6.05pm.

The Castlemaine Magpie Women's Football side enjoyed aweek'srest last weekend as they awaited the result of the preliminary final clash between old rivals Woorinen and Golden Square. Square posted an upset with a17-point win over Woorinen to secure their spot in this Friday night'sAFL Central VicWomen's grand final against Castlemaine at the Queen Elizabeth Oval. The match will kick offat7.30pm and no doubt abig Castlemaine crowd will in in attendance to cheer the local side on as they chase a historic third consecutive premiership.

State selection

Woodend'sAva Ryan has been selected by School Sports Victoria to represent the state in the U12 girls soccer team at the upcoming National Championship in Western Australia in October

The 12-year-old St Ambrose Parish Primary School student attended aregional and two state trials before being offered aposition in the team, along with 13 other girls from Victoria.

Avawas elated on her selection for the team after many years of hard work, dedication and commitment to continually improving her game.

Avabegan her love of soccer by joining the miniroos program in Woodend aged five. From there, she joined Gisborne Soccer Club in 2020 as an U8 playing her first year of Metropolitan competition soccer.Ava has continued to play for GSC, playing U13s Athis year

The local soccer club has provided her with agreat foundation and opportunities to develop her skills and abilities to be the player she is today.The coaching that Avahas received coupled with her drive to continually improve has provided opportunities for her to be selected into further development programs: Melbourne Victoria pre academy,and Football Victoria Skills Acquisition Program.

"A huge thank you to GSC, committee and president Carl Valeri for the continued support and encouragement provided to Avaover the last four years," mum Seona said.

The club has generously put together aFundAva Raffle with some amazing prizes to be won. Club members wish Avaand Team Vicall the best in the upcoming National Championship.

If you’d like to get behind Avaand support her journey with achance at winning some amazing prizes, visit www.raffletix.com.au/fundava

Bowls not faraway

Spring has officially arrived, and Highlands pennant bowls begins on Saturday October 5.

The big first round division 1match is Kyneton Golf versus Romsey,a repeat of the 2023-24 season grand final.

Kyneton Golf and Romsey are expected to be strong contenders again this season.

Other first round games are Gisborne v Diggers Rest, Broadford vTrentham, and Kilmore vLancefield. Kyneton has the bye.

There are 18 home and away rounds for division 1.

The Highlands pennant committee released the fixtures yesterday,with Mt Cottrell the newcomers to the competition.

Mt Cottrell will debut in division 3, where the other teams are Gisborne 3and 4,

Macedon, Romsey,Woodend, Lancefield, Kilmore, Kyneton and Trentham.

There are ninesides in division 2–Kyneton, Diggers Rest, Gisborne, Woodend, Macedon, Broadford, Romsey, Kilmore, and Kyneton Golf.

Fixtures for midweek (Tuesday) pennant, beginning on October 22,were also released.

Division 1comprises Romsey,Gisborne, Kyneton, Kilmore, Diggers Rest, Woodend, Kyneton Golf and Macedon.

The teams in division 2are Broadford, Trentham, Mt Cottrell, Lancefield, Romsey, Gisborne, Kyneton and Kilmore. Midweek division 3comprises Macedon, Kyneton Golf, Kilmore, Gisborne 3and 4, Woodend, Diggers Rest and Kyneton.

Castlemaine Magpie Under 18s team member Kyan Martin attempts to get akick away as his Kangaroo Flat opponents close in.

View Saturday 7thSeptember 11:00am-11:30am

ForSale $890,000 -$950,000

Web rh.com.au/kyneton

12 Rennick Avenue, Kyneton

MODERN LIVING AT ITSBEST

•Stunning four bedroom, twobathroom home situated on aspacious 619sqm land approx.This propertyboasts modern architecture anddesign, with north facing outdoor entertaining, stylish dining room, acomfortableliving room, and a well-equipped kitchen. Doublegaragefor convenient parking and storage.

Jennifer Pearce 0427 422508 jennifer.pearce@kyneton.rh.com.au

A 4 B 2 C 2 F 560m2

View Saturday 7thSeptember 10:15am-10:45am

ForSale $790,000 -$850,000 Web rh.com.au/kyneton

Jennifer Pearce 0427 422508 jennifer.pearce@kyneton.rh.com.au

Kyneton 5422 2678 rh.com.au/kyneton

Inspect&Explore

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.

Gisborne 5428 4007 rh.com.au/gisborne

Sunbury97446334 rh.com.au/sunbury

A 3 B 1 C 2 F 655m2

View Saturday 7thSeptember 11:30am-12:00pm

ForSale $790,000 -$850,000 Web rh.com.au/kyneton

22 Bowen Street, Kyneton

Beautiful Bowen Street

•Pretty weatherboardhome on 654square metres on the southside of Bowen Street. Beautifully situated just 350metres from Kyneton’s main street, Mollison Street. Enter the propertythrough twistedwire gates. The front fenceisofaluminium arch and picket. Concretepathtofront verandah.

Judith Stevens 0438 683484

A 3 B 1 C 1 F 583m2

View Saturday 7th September 10:00am-10:30am

ForSale $690,000 -$750,000 Web rh.com.au/kyneton

DiggersRest87409666 rh.com.au/diggersrest

Judith Stevens 0438 683484 judith.stevens@kyneton.rh.com.au

Just Listed

6Sturt Street, Kyneton

Sturt Street Stunner

•The home at 6Sturt Street is avery pretty cream painted weatherboardwithwhite accents and aheritage redgalvanized iron roof and window shades. This home is on the southside of the streetand stands behind awooden picket fence.

A 4 B 2 C 2 F 619m2