Midland Express Tuesday June 4 2024

Talent on show

Rotary Castlemaine’s annual Art Show is on again across this King’s Birthday weekend, June 7-10

Patrons attending the 2024 show receive a catalogue and People’s Choice voting slips

Last year's People’s Choice winner, Adam Weston (pictured with his work), said he was very happy to get the recognition for his work “It gave me the confidence to expand my artistic horizons and try different things,” Weston said The show is open at Castlemaine Town Hall daily from 10am across the weekend, with a Gala Opening and presentation of prizes this Thursday evening at 7pm Tickets for the Gala Opening will be available at the door People’s Choice will be announced just before the show closing on Monday June 10

Proceeds from the show are channelled into Rotary Castlemaine’s community support and charity work

Fearsfor drill hall future

Fear is mounting in the Kyneton community that the historic Mont St Quentin Barracks is being left to rot.

The drill hall has been home to the 430 Squadron Air Cadets for more than 40 years but the squadron was forced to move out in 2020 when the hall was found to be in disrepair

Cadets temporarily relocated to share the Kyneton Scout Hall and have now been meeting at Gisborne Secondary College since February,but no works to repair the drill hall have begun.

ADefence spokesperson said future use of the hall would be assessed against the outcomes of arecent Defence Estate Audit, which was currently with government for consideration.

“An enterprise-wide audit of the Defence estate and infrastructure was conducted in response to the recommendations of the Defence Strategic Review, to assess whether the estate meets Defence’scontemporary requirements," the spokesperson said.

"Funding determinations for remediation of the Kyneton Drill Hall will be based on broader Defence priorities."

The Mont St Quentin Barracks is of historic significance to Kyneton.

The Victorian Heritage Database Report states, "Of the remaining examples of Victorian Drill Halls, Colac and Kyneton are the most stylistically interesting. Kyneton has no other building that is similar to this structure".

Locals now fear the hall will continue to be neglected.

Former cadet at Kyneton, Michael Jerman, said the hall was originally home to the 4th/19th Light Horse Regiment, and when the Army Reserve pulled out of Kyneton, it was left to the Air Force Cadets.

"This organisation in Kyneton has inspired and encouraged hundreds of teenagers over the years," Mr Jerman said.

"The squadron was the first to enrol female cadets in Australia in 1981 and encouraged leadership and discipline in a way that was abenefit to the whole community

"The drill hall is an ideal location for the Air Cadets having their own location to

parade on Friday nights.

"As aformer long-term member of the Cadets Iamdisappointed in the squadron relocation."

Acadet parent, Louisa Denton, said the future of the hall was uncertain and the information from the Department of Defence was lacking.

"Wedon't know how long it will take for the work to be completed, or if anything is to be done at all," Ms Denton said.

"As acommunity,wecan’t allow this building tobe lost orto continue to deteriorate, it is ahistoric landmark.

"Weneed to draw attentiontoits plight because it seems it has been forgotten, and so have our young people of 430 Squadron."

Rotary Castlemaine Art Show 2023 People’s Choice winner Adam Weston with his eagle

Highestrateoftrauma

Sam Irvine

Macedon Ranges has the highest rate of wildlife road trauma in the state, adding to astrain on Wildlife Victoria’sservices.

CEO Lisa Palma said since 2019, more than 4000 native animals had been struck by cars in the Macedon Ranges alone.

The organisation experienced a46per cent increase in state-wide incidents over that same period.

Ms Palma said the figures were likely agross underestimation, but enough to stretch the organisation to capacity

“Our hardworking volunteers are out there day and night, 24-7, and so are our Wildlife Victoria teams on the phones, but it’sgetting to breaking point,” she said.

As anot-for-profit, just seven per cent of Wildlife Victoria’sfunding (equivalent to $500,000 annually) is provided by the state government, but that’sabout to dry up.

The 2024-25 state budget did not deliver any new funding for the organisation.

“It means the future of Wildlife Victoria is seriously at risk,” Palma said.

“Wemay need to stop provision of services or even consider winding down over the longer term. It’s not okay for acharity facing asignificant increase in demand.

“Wecan’t continue to rely on charities like ours and good will to provide apublic service for the state and for the wildlife that belongs to the crown.”

In astatement responding to the budget, the organisation criticised the Victorian Government for pledging afurther $12 million in funding over the next three years to the state’shighly controversial duck hunting season, while Victoria’sprincipal wildlife emergency service remained “critically underfunded”.

Call Wildlife Victoria’s24-hour hotline for help or advice with arescue on: 8400 7300.

Help solve wildlifecrime

The community is being reminded of their valuable role in solving wildlife crime as authorities encourage people to come forward with any information that could help solve cold cases.

Crime Stoppers Victoria and the Conservation Regulator have launched the ‘Wildlife crime: It’syourcall’ campaign, to help the public recognise and report wildlife crime.

The partnership aims to empower the community to report information about suspected incidents and perpetrators of wildlife crime by raising public awareness and providing education on the nature and seriousness of native wildlifecrime.

“Weknow that people want to make a difference, and it is important that those who have information about thesehorrific wildlife crimes know they can report to Crime Stoppers,” said Stella Smith, Crime Stoppers Victoria chief executive.

“If you see anything suspicious, your information, no matter how small, could help make adifference and find those responsible for committing wildlife crime.”

The state’schief conservation regulator Kate Gavens said community assistance was incredibly important to investigations.

“Wildlife crime could be an actofcruelty, illegal hunting, or the unlawful keeping, buying or selling of native animals, and information such as locations, dates, times, number platesand physical descriptions of people and animals are crucial to findingand penalising those responsible,” Ms Gavens said.

If you suspect wildlife crime, you can tell Crime Stoppers what you know, anonymously,on1800 333 000 or at crimestoppersvic.com.au

$$ GET OFF THE GAS $$

Akoala struck and killed on Romsey Road last month.

Reconciliation recognition

Mount Alexander Shire Council'sAustralia Day –Survival Day event has been recognised with aReconciliation Victoria award.

The event was among the winners of the 2024 Maggolee Awards, which celebrate and recognise strong partnerships between Victorian local governments and First Nations Peoples.

Castlemaine Australia Day –Survival Day is acommunity event held annually on January 26.

The day includes the shire'sAustralia Day Awards, citizenship ceremony and an afternoon Survival Day concert –programmed by Uncle Rick Nelson. The event was first held in 2018 in collaboration with Dja Dja Wurrung Elder,Uncle Rick Nelson, and has continued every year since.

“Australia Day –Survival day has come so far since my father (Uncle Brien Nelson) first raised the Aboriginal Flag, and since Aunty Julie McHale won the Citizen of the Year award in 2017,” Uncle Rick said.

“Now we have an amazing event with aconcert that celebrates our survival, with such adiverse and incredible level of talent

performing on the day

“We’re all community,we’ve gottolive side by side, so we need to work together to move forward, towards reconciliation.

“An event like Australia Day –Survival Day does just that, it promotes unity in our shire and beyond.”

Mount Alexander Shire mayor,CrMatthew Driscoll, was proud to see the event recognised and celebrated.

“For many people, January 26 is aday of mourning and one that brings mixed feelings,” he said.

“At council, we wanted to host an event that respects our First Nations community’sright to mourn as well as their right to celebrate survival.

“Everyone who’sbeen to one of our Australia Day –Survival Day events knows it’sareally special day,and that it gets better and better each year

“Congratulations to everyone involved in making Australia Day –Survival Day the amazing event that it is. This award is well deserved.”

Romsey pokies hearing wraps up

The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission will now determine an outcome of the application for 50 electronic gaming machines for Romsey Hotel following ahearing that concluded last Tuesday Romsey Football Netball Club applied for 50 EGMs last year amid plans for a$10 million overhaul of the 90-94 Main Street pub.

The pub has stood stagnant for years following MRSC’ssuccessful fight of asimilar application more than adecade ago in a battle that went to the Supreme Court.

Earlier this month, aVGCCC panel heard evidence for and against the most recent application, including presentations from both the applicant and Macedon Ranges Shire Council.

MRSC representatives gave evidence

to the panel as informed by findings from its own recent Social Economic Impact Assessment and community survey.The communitysurvey found amajority of those surveyed did not support the application.

Local community members also attended, with two community members presenting information to the commission for local context.

VGCCC'spanel comprised three commissioners: chair Fran Thorn, deputy chair Andrew Scott and commissioner Claire Miller

The hearing was initially scheduled for three days, however,was extended to a fourth to ensure all presented information could be heard. VGCCC'sdecision on the matter is expected by June 24.

Dja Dja Wurrung Elder, Uncle Rick Nelson, organises the annual Survival Day concert held in Castlemaine.

Monument defaced with fake blood

Amonument commemorating explorer Major Thomas Mitchell, located at the Expedition Pass Reservoir in Golden Point, was defaced with fake blood last Monday,accompanied by asign titled Truth Telling

‘On this day on May 27 1836, agroup led by Major Mitchell murdered seven people in the Mt Dispersion Massacre. We don’t commemorate other mass murderers in Victoria, except Major Mitchell’.

This was accompanied by alist of mass murders in Victoria with Major Mitchell’sname highlighted.

‘Wecall for all monuments to Major Mitchell to be removed or alternatively,a plaque that states the full history of what this man was responsible for including; the murder of at lease seven Aboriginal people on the Dhungala (Murray) River on May 27 1836,’ the statement read.

The six-foot granite obelisk was erected on April 22, 1914 after Mitchell passed though the ravine on September 20, 1836 and named it ‘Expedition Pass’.

Mitchell, who held the post of Surveyor-General of New South Wales for 36 years in the 19th century,isa well-known historic figure who led four extensive and historically significant surveying expeditions in east of Australia.

During his third expedition in 1836, Mitchell and his surveying party launched asurprise attack on agroup of Aboriginal people, resulting in at least seven Indigenous Australians being killed as they fled across the Murray River

Following the massacre, Mitchell named the small hill Mount Dispersion.

On returning home to New South Wales, Mitchell faced an inquiry,where he received aminor reprimand for his actions.

The location on the south-west of New South Wales, now officially known as the Mount Dispersion Massacre Site, was officially recognised as an Aboriginal place under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 in May 2020.

Australia Day –Survival Dayevent wins award

Mount Alexander ShireCouncil is proud to sharethe news thatthe shire’sAustralia Day–Survival Dayevent has been recognised with Reconciliation Victoria’sMaggolee Award.

Australia Day– Survival Dayisanannual community event held in Castlemaine on 26 January

“Australia Day– Survival Dayhas come so farsincemy father (Uncle Brien Nelson) firstraised the Aboriginal Flag, and sinceAunty Julie McHale wonCitizen of the Year in 2017,” said Uncle Rick Nelson, Dja Dja WurrungElder

“Nowwehaveanamazing event with aconcert that celebrates our survival, with such adiverse and incredible leveloftalent performing on the day.

“We’reall community,we’vegot to liveside by side,so we need to work together to move forward, towards reconciliation.

“Anevent likeAustralia Day– Survival Day promotes unity in our shireand beyond.”

Read moreabout the award at mountalexander.vic.gov.au/News

Working

forahealthy, connected shire mountalexander.vic.gov.au (03) 5471 1700

The monument at Golden Point was covered in fake blood last Monday.

Archibald finalista studyofGreer

Artist Liz Sullivan has been selected as afinalist for the 2024 Archibald Prize for her portrait of Germaine Greer

Greer is atrailblazing feminist, academic, author and conservationist, who became ahousehold name in 1970 with her seminal, bestselling book The Female Eunuch

She now lives in aged care near Sullivan’shome in regional Victoria, so one morning the artist and her sister paid avisit.

"I had considered asking Germaine to sit for aportrait but decided she was too formidable. In fact, she was very approachable, put us all at ease and agreed," Sullivan said.

"Her mind fired like afully charged battery.The only things that stayed still were her legs. She didn’t want any make-up or special clothing, just aglass of wine for both of us while Itried to keep up with her in wide-ranging discussions about politics, sport and world affairs.

"You know Idon’t like portraits," said Greer while sitting for this painting.

"Her only instruction was that she wasn’t having any input," Sullivan said.

Sullivan, afirst-time Archibald finalist, began with overlapping images, trying to match Germaine’s vitality

"This final painting has asimplicity about it," she said.

"Germaine’sstance and hands speak loudly,the pencil marks speak softly –a limited palette capturing both her strength and vulnerability."

Join the police for latte with aLLO

Castlemaine Police invite members of the LGBTIQA+ and wider community to their inaugural 'Latte with aLLO' event at Moxie Cafenext Monday

The event will give community members the chance to meet the Castlemaine Police Station'sthree LGBTIQA+ liaison officers (LLO) Sergeant Kim Garsed and Leading Senior ConstablesWayne Cairnes and Kerrie Bannan for an informal chat or information about the services the LLO members can provide those in the local LGBTIQA+ community LSC Cairnes said the new initiative was supported by Mount Alexander Shire Council's LGBTIQA+ Steering Committee and aimed to break down barriers to people seeking support or reporting issues.

"Weknow some members of the LGBTIQA+ community may not have had positive experiences with Victoria Police in the past," he said.

"Wewant to highlight the fact that today Victoria Police is more inclusive and community members can request support from adedicated LLO if they wish."

The event will take place at the Moxie Cafe at 14 Hargraves Street, Castlemaine at 10am on Monday June 10. Coffee vouchers will be available for those who'd like to call in for achat and acuppawith the trio.

Fatal crash at Monegeetta

Police are investigating afatal crash at Monegeetta last Wednesday night. It is understood acar crashed into atree on Kilmore Road, near Melbourne-Lancefield Road, about 9.55pm.

Emergency services worked on the female driver,but she died at the scene. Anyone who witnessed the crash, with CCTV/dashcam footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via: crimestoppersvic.com.au

Germaine by Liz Sullivan

Shape thefuture of Wesley Hill

There’sbeen apositive response to the call to share views regarding the Wesley Hill Hall and Market precinct.

So far more than 180 residents, including teenagers, have contributed their feedback regarding the popular Castlemaine market and community hall.

Awell-attended public meeting was held on May 15, where potential new committee members found out more about committee business, and interested community provided their views regarding areas for change and improvement.

Broad themes emerging from the meeting focused on the environment and infrastructure of the precinct –for example, shelter and shade, native planting, seating and aplay area.

People are also keen for the precinct to host arange of community friendly activities outside of market hours, and for the hall to be used to its full potential.

Given the hall has alongand rich history,and the market is one of the longest running regional markets in Victoria, it’snosurprise that people were also interested in celebrating this –coming up with arange of ideas including exhibitions, dances and events. There is still time to give your thoughts –complete the survey at tinyurl.com/yfrnzd9b by this Friday June 7.

If you are unable to access the survey online, contact the secretary on 0428 839 100.

The management committee also wants to hear from individuals or groups who can help with improvement projects as they emerge, making this areal community effort.

All the information gathered from the consultation process will inform aMasterPlan, which will be launched later in the year –sowatch this space for actions to come.

The Saturday market is popular with locals and visitors of all ages. Photo: Michael Rayner

Gisborne Golf Club is beginning to rebuild after losing its clubhouse to an electrical fire in April.

GGC general manager Brett Campbell said attention had now turned rebuilding and players have already returned to the course.

“Wehave been working hard to arrange temporary portable buildings for the pro shop and office team, which we’ve managed to get up and running," Brett said.

“Weare still facing power and internet issues across the site, but we’re working with local suppliers to make these and other club functions operational.”

Soon after the blaze, Isuzu Power Solutions offered aremote power source in the form of a37kVA enclosed generator set to help power the temporary setup.

The generator helped get members back onto the course and playing golf just 48 hours after the fire took place.

Spearheading the effort was keen golfer and Isuzu Australia’schief of sales and aftersales, Ben Lasry, who lives close by the golf club and was awoken by the sirens of responding fire crews.

“Weheard the sirens and saw the smoke that night and Iknew straight away something significant had oc-

Heritage strategy released

Macedon Ranges Shire Council will release the draft Macedon Ranges Heritage Strategy 2024-2034 for community consultation this month.

The draft strategy is astrategic planning tool that sets out the council’sapproach to the management of heritage within the shire for the next 10 years.

This document was informed by input from relevant council staffand feedback from the community,through consultation in May/June last year.More than 40 entries were received.

The draft strategy proposes alist of 26 actions, comprising 18 new actions and eight that have already been implemented and are ongoing, but which are worthy of continued support.

Golf club rebuilding

curred at the clubhouse,” Ben said.

“I’ve spent alot of time over the years playing on the course and spending time at the clubhouse and Iknow how critical places like this are to the ongoing health and wellbeing of asmall town like Gisborne…it’sbeen a real hit to morale.

“Wemade the decision to prepare one of our midsized gensets and get it across to Brett and the guys at the GGC to help in any way possible."

While the rebuilding effort is under way in earnest, the timeframe for anew,finished clubhouse is estimated to be up to 12 months.

Gisborne Golf Club’s clubhouse was destroyed in an electrical fire in April.

HarcourtFarming Co-op recruiting

Harcourt Organic Farming Coop is recruiting new farmers and enterprises.

The co-op is acollaboration of diverse organic and regenerative farmers who lease land on a single farm in Harcourt.

Katie and Hugh Finlay own the farm and began the co-op to diversify the farming on their land and give young farmers an entry point to farming.

One of those young farmers is Tess Sellar who has been running the dairy at the co-op for the past six years.

“I’d been putting money away for along time with the plan to either start my business or buy afarm, knowing Icouldn’t afford both," Tess said.

"Having the opportunity to start at the co-op meant Icould test out the business model first. Little did Iknow that the most valuable part of being in the co-op was farming alongside others. Having others around to celebrate when you have awin and an ear to listen when some cold hard farming realities happen."

The co-op model presents opportunities for farmers to access land, existing strong sales channels and shared infrastructure, and offers agreat opportunity for new farmers or those without land. They are currently recruiting for people wanting to run enterprises in horticulture, orcharding, grazing, and business-in-place.

There are arange of prospec-

tus documents available on the Harcourt Organic Farming Co-op website with more details for each opportunity available via: hofcoop. com.au/join-our-co-op

The co-op is holding two we-

binars for those interested in the model, and in joining the co-op.

On Thursday June 6, 7pm to 8pm, the co-op will be sharing the outcomes of atwo-year project undertaken to document the

co-op’ssuccesses and lessons learned, and to understand small farm viability.There will be ashort film about their work and some behind the scenes info from the co-op and its enterprises.

For those interested in joining the co-op there is amore handson session on Tuesday June 11, 7pm to 8pm.

For details, or to register,visit: hofcoop.com.au/join-our-co-op

Thefriendly crew at Harcourt Organic Farming Co-op are recruiting new farmers and enterprises to join their co-op.

FOOK SHING

In our humblestofopinions, FookShing dishes are designed to be sharedwith good friends and family; with avastarray of flavours, spicesand aromas.

Check out ourbanquet menu or chooseyourown adventure fromour alacartemenuonyour next visit! Celebratein style andenjoya decadentlunchordinner in ourPrivate DiningRoom. Call us for inquires.

Opening Hours: Dinner: Thursday to Saturday from 6pm

Lunch: Friday to Sunday from Midday Bookings essential

82-84 Piper Street, KYNETON Phone: (03) 5422 6560 contact@fookshing.com.au www.fookshing.com.au

THEFARMERSWIFE

Established in 2015 this little store is located in the heart of Piper Street. With areputation for feminine fashion beautifully merchandised in aunique store experience. You’ll find agorgeous selection of Australian Labels such as Once Was, 365 Days and Binny

In addition, you’ll find lovely gifts, fragrances, jewellery and sleepwear.Welook forward to welcoming you in store soon!

Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 10 am -4pm Sunday 11 am -3 pm

15A Piper St, KYNETON

Phone: 0429 987 309

hello@thefarmerswifestore.com.au

thefarmerwifestore.com.au

MISS MAISIE

This iconic, well established Kyneton store has seen many seasons come and go.

Our friendly and helpful girls can advise on new wardrobe pieces by showcasing locally manufactured products and handpicked overseas brands.

We offer atraditional, personalised shopping experience, our priority being to understand our customers needs.

Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 10 am -4pm Sunday 11 am -3 pm

54A Piper Street, KYNETON Phone: (03) 4404 8740 kyneton@missmaisie.com.au www.missmaisie.com.au

THEDONKEY’S TALE

Visit this stunning historic building at 46 Piper St and discover acarefully curated range of quality sustainable toys, family games and puzzles, combined with beautiful books and clothes for the younger children.

Opening Hours: Wednesday,Thursday,Friday and Sunday 10 am to 4pm. Saturday 9.30 am to 4pm

46 Piper Street,Kyneton Phone: (03) 5422 7498 admin@thedonkeystale.com.au thedonkeystale.com.au

Explore

KYNETON’S S

Forabout180years,Kyneton’sPiperStreethasbeenaplace with‘somethinggoingforit’.It’salwayschangingtoreflectthe timesfromsupplyingallthingsneededbyfortunehuntersduring theGoldrushtotoday’svisitorwhowantsamodern,stylishand upbeatdestinationforfood,fashionandmore. ComeonaquicktripalongPiperStreetwiththeMidlandExpress editorialteamwho’lltellyouwhattheyparticularlylikeabouta selectionofthestreet’sbusinesses...

1.LittleSwallowCafe

Relaxedand friendly, there’salot to like about Little Swallow Cafe,includingthe outdoor courtyardthatissoarranged to be snug even on acoolday.Asfor thefood to enjoyinthatspace,werecentlycouldn’t go past thewarmlamb salad,whichfeatured so many favouriteingredients with thegrilledsukkahencrustedlamb strapincluding beetroot puréeand asalad of turmeric pearlcouscous, pomegranate, rocket, roasted sweetpotatoand roastedalmonds in ahouse-made dressing. Next time it will be atoss up betweenthe lamb andmushroom risottoorprawn linguine.

2.FookShing

It’s difficultindeed decidingwhattoselectfrom themenuatFookShing. It’s all so good.Whatyou don’tneed to make yourmindupabout is acocktailto enjoywithyour dinner.Thebar team at Fook Shingare experts at creating acocktailto perfectlymatch your food selection. South-EastAsian inspired,the Fook Shingcocktails havetobeone of ourfavourite things about this PiperStreetestablishment

3.LoveSpell

Love Spellisthe perfect fit foranyoneseeking somethingunique anddifferent. Love Spell’sowner has put together arangeofdenim that she trulyloves andlives in. Mother denim is that brand. It’s premium denim, all aboutfitand fabric. Styles cover everythingfrom your superflare, whichlooks fabulous on everysilhouette, to your classic high-waistedstraightleg

4.ArtonPiper

ArtonPiper is agalleryartshub that offers agreat range of artworks andgifts at affordable prices, all createduniquelybythe skill of talentedlocal artists, whichmeans youare buying what is prettymuchaone off andthatmakes this gallerysospecial

5.LinenHouse

LinenHouse’s outlet storeonPiper Street beckonswithits arrayofpremium homewares: bedlinen, towels,cushions,and more.Eachvisit promisesanirresistible opportunity to revamp your home season by season,all at discounted prices. It’s no wonder we seldomdepartwithout afresh purchaseinhand.

6.TheFarmersWife

The FarmersWifehas become awell-known destination forbeautiful fashion, homewaresand gifts. Whileweare drawn to so much on theboutique’s racks, our team’s favouriteare theTheMontreal City Sneakerfrom HOFF.They’recarefully craftedtoprovide superior all-day comfort, with aremovablememoryfoaminsole, heel stabiliser,and serrated rubber sole.Bliss when alongwalk needsstyle andcomfort!

LOVE SPELL

7.CountryHabit

Clothing, giftware and homewares all withaclassic countryfeelcome togetherinPiper Street’sCountry Habit.All members ofthe family are catered for herefrom verylittle ones to their grandparents, and it’sall stylish,timelessand good quality.That’s whatwelike best about Country Habit!

8.TheDonkey’sTale

There aresomanydelightful,hands-ontoysatTheDonkey’sTale, that youwill keep browsingfor hours. Findsomethingspecial foryou childtoloveand prize, providingendlesscreative play opportunities. Looking forthe little ones to stay dryand warm this winter.You will findbeautiful clothesfrom qualitybrands to enablethemto dressinstyle.Visit us to explore all thewonderful choices.

9.MissMaisie

We love thehugerangeoflabels stockedbyMissMaisie boutique.From casual to the more dressy,there is much to select from.Our favourites rightnow arethe jumpersand oversizedcardigans at Miss Maisie whichweknowwe’ll be wearingwhenthe autumn days stretch acrosstowinter.

LINEN HOUSEOUTLET

Winter home styling has never looked so chic. At Linen House’sKyneton outlet, discover atreasure-trove of fabulous bed linen and homewares, created by our team of in-house designers. With the store fitted-out beautifully to inspire your dream home, whether your bedroom, bathroom, kitchen or living area –it’sinevitable you’ll leave with something that will transform your home.

Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 10 am -5 pm. Saturday 10 am -5pm. Sunday 10 am -4.30 pm

Shop 4, 12-14 Piper Street, KYNETON Phone: (03) 9551 2757 kynetonstaff@linenhouse.com.au www.linenhouse.com

Love Spell has acuration of International and Australian fashion labels like the coveted Mother Denim label, American Vintage, Free People, Alias Mae and so many more!! Whether you are looking for your next fav pair of jeans or afabulous dress for your next event, we have you covered. Come shop with one of our stylist’stohelpyou find transseasonal wardrobe pieces you will love for alifetime. No time to shop? No problem. Reach out to us for aprivate shopping appointment after or before hours.

Opening Hours: 7days aweek10am- 4pm

56 Piper Street, KYNETON Phone: 0401 936 476 heather@lovespell.com.au www.lovespell.com.au

LITTLE SWALLOW CAFÉ

Little Swallow Café is acosy countrycafesituated on historic Piper Street, Kyneton. Serving breakfast and lunch, homemade cakes and excellent coffee, tea or quality local drinks, we are open 7days aweekfor breakfast and lunch. Little Swallow now offers casual dinner dining 5.30 to 8.30, Friday and Saturday.Weare also licensed with arange of excellent local beers, wines and spirits.

Opening Hours: 7days aweek8am to 3pm, Dinner Friday and Saturday 5.30pm to 8.30pm

62 Piper St, KYNETON

Phone: 5422 6702

ed_pursey@hotmail.com

COUNTRYHABIT

Winter is here and this is where you will find cosy clothing for all the family- hats, socks, shirts,skirts jumpers and pants. Cosy sleepwear for everyone too. Explore the store for lots more !!! Watch for the bike out front.

Opening Hours: Monday and Tuesday 10.30 am -4 pm Thursday to Sunday 10.30 am -4 pm

16 Piper Street, KYNETON Phone: 0411 208 448 chabit@bigpond.com

Little Swallow Café

ART ON PIPER

Twenty four local artists enjoy the surprisingly large Art on Piper galleryinPiper St Kyneton with creative offerings both varied in style and priced well for gifting. Their uniquely made contents change regularly and some items reflect the local area specifically.Visitors appreciate meeting the talented art collective members when on duty,often requesting acustom commission, based upon the secrets they have just learned

Opening Hours: 7days most of the year 10 am -4pm

44 Piper Street, KYNETON

Phone: Sales 0408 506 283 info@artonpiper.com www.artonpiper.com

Fashion forfoodbank

The Kindness Collective at Kyneton is hosting an Op Shop Fashion Parade fundraiser this month to help raise funds for the Kyneton Foodbank.

Amid cost-of-living pressures, the Kindness Collective is seeing daily increases of people signing up to use the foodbank and coming in for soup kitchen lunches.

"The fashion parade fundraiser will help us raise funds to keep our shelves stocked and offer more wholesome goods, like protein and dairy,for people to take home

and cook quality meals," operations manager Julie Devlin said.

"Wethink this will be agreat fun way to show offall of the amazing clothes we have in the op shop and have a bit of fun at the same time.

"I'd like to thank our volunteers for organising this and the community for its ongoing support, because the donations that we get through the op shop and via the foodbank are incredible."

All profit from what is sold in the op shop goes back into purchasing food for the foodbank and kitchen.

The Op Shop Fashion Parade fundraiser will be held at 2pm on Sunday June 16 in the Kyneton Mechanics Institute.

Tickets are $25 and include afternoon tea, acomplimentary glass of bubbles, prizes, fun and games, plus raffles galore!

Tickets via Trybooking ('Opshop Fashion').

Pictured (left to right): Foodbank operations manager Julie Devlin with volunteers Manuela May, Bruce Jones, Honni Morris and Lisa Jackson.

Photo: Stephen Morris, Open2view Macedon Ranges

Apassion forthe environment

"Tom Uren stood up to Gough and said, 'look, the Caucus should remember that the national platform wanted astand-alone department of environment and conservation'.

Doug McIver was working as apublic servant when environmental policy was becoming apriorityfor the Australian Government.

It was 1972 and the Whitlam Government had just come into power. Doug was employed in Canberra within the Department of Territories at the time, working on community development and housing in Papua New Guinea.

"At the election of 1972, the National Conference of the ALP had wanted afully fledged, stand-alone department of environment and conservation," Doug said.

"When the government was elected, the cabinet was not appointed until about two and half weeks after the election.

"Tom Uren, who had the shadow ministry for the environment between '69 and '72, was adynamic player with the Left of the party, as was Moss Cass, but when Gough was deciding his cabinet, the ministry for environment was low down in the order of things he was wanting.

"Tom had got the portfolio of urban and regional development –very important across Australia with growth centres and the role of local government authorities –and Moss got environment and conservation."

In 1973, Doug took up arolewith the newly formed Department of Environment and Conservation.

He worked within the secretariat and focused on the Australian Environment Council. He also worked closely with the Council of Nature Conservation.

"It was the first time that we had the federal and state governments sitting around atable," he said.

"One of the most important issues was what was happening with the ozone layer and the United Nations took alot of initiatives with its member governments.

'The community was now, with the help of scientists and peak environmental organisations in Australia, getting across the issue of greenhouse gas emissions."

Doug said one thing that was coming back to bite Australia was the mining resources diplomacy of the Minister for Resources, Rex Connor, and the emergence of environmental impact statements.

"Moss Cass was given the responsibility of working on environmental impact legislation, which was eventually passed in 1974."

When the government was dismissed in 1975, Doug was at Parliament House to witness the fallout.

He then moved to the Department of Environment, Housing and Community Development, which included the federal Office of Local Government.

Doug and his wife Jan moved to the Macedon Ranges in 2004 and have continued to champion environmental causes locally.

They are both heavily involved with the Kyneton Transition Hub, which works to make the community more resilient to deal with the impacts of climate change.

"I'm very pleased with the work that environmental groups are doing locally. In terms of the environment movement, I still hold that passion," Doug said.

The Midland Express takes alook back to the early days of environmental policy making with Kyneton resident Doug McIver.

Doug McIver (at left) as part ofthe Australian organising committee for the international meeting of the members of the Permanent International Association of Road Congresses held in Sydney in 1982.

Doug McIver today.

Restoring healthy landscapes

The Mount Alexander region is rich in nature and biodiversity.Compared to other parts of south-eastern Australia, the region has relatively high native vegetation cover and its forests and woodlands are home to awonderful collection of native flora and fauna. Most of this remnant vegetation can be broadly described as ‘box-ironbark forest’ and provides important food and shelter for arange of species threatened with extinction including the elusive and charismatic brushtailed phascogale (pictured) and anumber of stunning small woodland birds. The winter

flowering eucalypts are an important source of nectar for the endangered swift parrot, which migrates to the region from Tasmania in late autumn each year

The forests suffered significant damage due to alegacy of mining, wood collection, land clearing, excessive grazing and weed invasion. Traditional Owners, the Dja Dja Wurrung people, refer to this land as ‘Upside-down country’ in their Dhelkunya Dja (Country Plan), due to the legacy of gold mining.

Connecting Country is acommunity organisation operating for over 15 years with amission to restore landscapes across the Mount Alexander region in collaboration with arange of project partners. Since 2007 they’ve worked with more than 400 landholders and community groups to rehabilitate more than 13,000 hectares of habitat for local plants and animals.

The group works with adiverse range of landholders and groups to restore landscapes through grazing regime change, exclusion fencing, pest plant and animal control, revegetation and natural regeneration.

Connecting Country aims to empower landholders with the knowledge to implement sustainable land management and has a great range of freely accessible resources on its website including aHealthy Landscape Guide with valuable localised land management information.

Find out more about Connecting Country on its website, via the facebook page or subscribe to become amember or receive regular newsletters. Their work is only possible through generous donations and grants, so feel free to make adonation if you are in aposition to do so.

The pathway to healthysoils

Regenerative agriculture is emerging onto the mainstream stage and will play a huge role in reversing climate change, keeping moisture in the soil and preventing the loss of CO2 into the atmosphere.

It will create healthy soils without chemicals, lower the cost of farming, improve the health of plants and people, increase biodiversity and save important pollinators.

Aspokesperson for the Kyneton Transition Hub said the prime driving force of regenerative agriculture was developing a“living soil”. In conventional agriculture, on the other hand, soil is merely an anchor for plants and amedium through which they are fed artificial fertilisers.

“The model for conventional agriculture is feeding plants with chemicals,” the KTH spokesperson said. For regenerative agriculture the paradigm is to feed the soil and let it feed and protect the plants.

Regenerative agriculture involves arealisation that the microbiology in the soil works symbiotically with plants to create nutrient cycles and maintain soil andair health. Itworks by developing andmaintaining acomplex microbiome in the soil. It achieves this by using diversity of plants, keeping the groundcovered at all times, rotating crops, using no-till preparation using machinery specially designed for the purpose, rotational grazing and lots of compost. In organic regenerative agriculture no synthetic fertilisers or chemicals are permitted to be used.

Regenerative soils thatare properly looked after get better every year.This requires some work, but the soil becomes more resilient, dynamic and superior to conventionally farmed soils.

Visit the Kyneton Transition Hub’sstall at the Kyneton Farmers Market. Its members would lovetoshare their ideas and experiences.

Running on volunteer power

For the past 18 years Mount Alexander Sustainability Group, or MASG, has been acommunity leader in striving for net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and promoting more sustainable living through community action. During that time MASG has been the driver of initiatives to:

*Promote more energy efficient housing and businesses

*Increase uptake of rooftop solar energy

*Improve local food security; recycle batteries and plastics

*Reduce waste and landfilled materials

*Promote bioenergy using food processing and household organic waste, and

*Promote more sustainable agriculture, soil and landscape management

MASG also supports the popular Repair Café and the Wash Against Wastetrailer (pictured) to minimise waste by supplying (and washing)

reusable crockery and cutlery and composting food scraps generated at community and private events.

Going into its nineteenth year,MASG is calling for new community volunteers to work with them and learn more about initiatives to promote energy efficiency and sustainable food production -orjust to don the dishwashinggloves and join the fun of future Wash Against Wasteevents.

MASG welcomes you to acommunity meeting on June 20 at the Ray Bradfield meeting room beside the IGA car park in Castlemaine. Beginning at 5.30 you can go and hear from guest speakers and learn about MASG and other groups in the community with afocus on sustainability

For more information visit: masg.org.au,phone Bill Grant on 0407 882 070 or email info@masg. org.au. Also email that address to register you interest in attending the meeting.

Macedon Ranges Shire Council will celebrate World Environment Day by embracing the theme of #GenerationRestoration through its Healthy Landscapes and Trees for Schools programs.

This year,World Environment Day focuses on land restoration, halting desertification and building drought resilience key themes that are also reflected in the council’sawardwinning Healthy Landscapes program.

The program, which has been running since 2019, aims to strengthen climate resilience for farming communities by increasing animal, soil and waterway health. It recently celebrated its success with an event at Kyneton Town Hall where over 140 people heard landowners from across the central Victorian region share how their farming methods have improved through involvement in the program.

Beginning in August, the council will again be running its successful Holistic Grazing Management short course, which is part of the Healthy Landscapes program.

Growing and sharing Acting nowfor the future

In March Kyneton Backyard Grower launched its weekly Fruit and VegShare.

The idea for KBYG started with Kyneton locals Giovanni Giordano and Lenka Thompson wanting to bring gardeners together to share their growing knowledge and donate their homegrown produce to the community

The idea was quickly taken up by seven other local growers which then blossomed to 15 growers by the time the project was launched.

KBYG is always on the lookout for more land to grow in, or local growers to donate, or local receivers to take the produce. If you would like to be apart of this initiative please email kynetonbackyardgrowers@ gmail.com, or call Giovanni 0418 997 015 or Lenka 0425 786 377 -they would love

to hear from you.

KBYG’sFruit and VegShare is every Sunday 10am to noon at the Kyneton Lion’sCommunity Stall. All remaining produce goes to either the Kyneton Community House or the Kyneton Food Bank.

KBYG is community-led project of the Kyneton Transition Hub and auscpiced by the Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group which is anot-for-profit, memberbased organisation which focusses on projects, events, and practical activities that promote sustainable living in local communities. It is are home to several community action groups made up of dedicated locals working together to make the Macedon Ranges amore sustainable place to live.

The course is designed to assist land managers in improving their skills and knowledge about grazing livestock, with the aim of increasing soil carbon and perennial pasture species, including native species. For information, visit: mrsc.vic.gov.au/healthy-landscapes. Trees for Schools

Macedon Ranges Shire Council has also partnered with Greater Western Water on the Trees for Schools Program. The initiative aiming to increase tree canopy cover and create more green spaces in schools.

Three schools in the Macedon Ranges Braemar College in Woodend, Riddells Creek Primary School, and Global Village Learning in New Gisborne were successful in their applications under the program and will receive trees, stakes, and guards in time for National Trees for Schools Day on July 26.

RESPECTIS CHALLENGING GENDER STEREOTYPES

Ultramarathoner releases

From adeprived childhood within afamilyhistoryof mental illness, suicide and addictions, Greg Wilson has attained unexpectedheights as an ultramarathoner. The Kyneton resident hasdetailed his storyinthe newly released memoir, Tales from an Ancient Marathoner

Joining theAustralian Armyat17was the catalyst for Greg's athletics career. Within afew months, he wasamongthe most accomplished distance runners in the AustralianDefence Force.

His memoirdocuments inclusion in the winning team at the Olympic Marathon trials, competing in the ADFOrienteering team beyond the ArcticCircle, and completing the'big lap'inthree months as amember of the XXXXAustralian ArmyAroundAustralia RelayTeam.

He has raced in the company of the likes of theworld'sgreatestultra runner, YiannisKouros, andsmashed therecordsset by running legend Cliff Young

His most recentevent was to representAustralia in aWorld AgeGroup Marathon Championship in Chicago, in a field of 49,000.

Greg hasdrawn fromhis ownrunningdiaries,interviews with family and researchtobring together this inspiring story of overcomingadversityand being truetoyourtalent.

"I like to think it's an accuratesum-

mary of an interesting running life,"Greg toldthe Express "Having comefroma familyfromthe wrongside of thetracks, Igot to experience alot of things that Ineverthought would eventuate– alot has been brought on bybeing arunner."

Thebook is publishedby Sidharta Booksand Print.Itis availableinpaperbackand ebook viaBooktopia andother outletsincludingAesop'sAtticBookstore and Collins News AgencyinKyneton, or through Greg directly,via email: aattvgreg@yahoo.com.au

Kyneton ultramarathon runner Greg Wilson has released his memoir, Tales from anAncient Marathoner.

MTORING M

Go safely this long weekend

With the June long weekend and family road trips around the corner,RACV is urging Victorian motorists to take asafety-first mindset to keep safe on the roads.

RACV road safety policy lead, Sam Lynch, said it was important for every Victorian motorist to do their part to ensure asafe long weekend period.

“That extra day at this time of year are agreat opportunity for aroad trip, but that often means an increased number of people driving on unfamiliar roads with different conditions,” Mr Lynch said.

“Weare encouraging everyone heading away to make sure they get to their destination safely –evenone life lost on our roads is too many and we need all Victorians to play their part in driving safely.”

RACV is sharing five key tips for Victorians heading on road trip journeys:

1. Don’t get stuck roadside: Make sure your roadside assistance is current.

2. Make sure your car can get you there: Ensure your car servicing is up to date and check on the quality of your tyres as well as air and fluid levels.

3. Share driving and plan breaks: Make sure you are well rested before embarking on along trip. Plan to stop for 15 minutes every two hours. If possible, take turns driving even if it’sonly for ashort time.

4. Patience with fellow drivers: During the long weekend there will be more cars on the road and achance for more traffic and congestion. Patience and empathy with your fellow motorists will lead to safer driving decisions.

5. Remove distractions: Using mobile phones or other portable devices while driving is not only illegal but very dangerous. Make sure that you’ve removed temptation and if you must receive or make acall, ensure that you have pulled over and parked safely before doing so.

Wake up call for tired drivers

Anew hard-hitting road safety campaign targeting drowsy drivers is backed by research showing drivers are four times more likely to crash if they’ve had less than five hours’ sleep.

The campaign Driving tired? Wake up to yourself, launched by the Victorian Government and Transport Accident Commission, reminds drivers that being tired behind the wheel not only makes them adanger to themselves, but adanger to everyone on the roads.

Central to the campaign is aconfronting new television ad showing aserious crash caused by atired driver crashing into another car with amother and her young daughter

Tired drivers contribute 16-20 per cent of fatal crashes on Victorian roads each year, while accounting for approximately 25 per cent of road trauma injuries at The Alfred and Royal Melbourne hospitals.

The campaign is backed by research by Monash University and the TAC, which found

participants in an impaired driving assess-

Asecond study found most respondents understood the risks of driving while tired and could identify the signs and symptoms, while young men reported agreater risk of falling asleep at the wheel.

The

DISCOVERY SPORT•DISCOVERY SPORT DISCOVERY SPORT

•DISCOVERY SPORT DISCOVERY SPORT •DISCOVERY ISCOVERY SPORT DISCOVERY SPORT•DISCOVERY

PJ'sTyres in Castlemaine has been named afinalist in the Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce 2024 awards for Best Small Automotive Business Regional Victoria.

Co-owner of PJs, Phillipa Gray-Finning, said they were proud to be able to submit the business'ssuccesses to the VACC for award consideration.

"The award is being judged on four categories," Phillipa said.

These are:

1. Improvements to business

2. Skill development

3. Reduce environmental impact

4. Deliver excellent customer service

Improvements to business at PJs include implementing systems to interact with customers more easily such as keeping in touch about the progress of their vehicles undergoing works so the owners can make their own decisions.

As for skills development, Phillipa said staffregularlyattended sessions to update

or introduce skills whether it be in or out of house.

The third category is also well taken care of at PJs.

"Weengage in alot relating to reducing environmental impact," Phillipasaid.

For example, discarded tyres go to a resident constructing an 'earth ship' and someone collects all the paper for recycling.

As for customer service, business improvements answer that one alot but there are the other improvements too, such as a more comfortable waiting room for clients to wait in while their vehicle is being taken care.

Another plus for PJ's is that theyhave anew fully qualified mechanic on staff. He cancarry out all repairs and log book services. If you would like you vehicle serviced, get in touch to discuss the options.

The winners of the VACC awards will be announced at adinner in Melbourne on June 29.

ISCOVERY SPORTDISCOVERY SPORT •DISCOVERY SPORT SPORTDISCOVERY SPORT

•DISCOVERY SPORTDISCOVERY TDISCOVERY SPORT •DISCOVERY SPORT DISCOVERY DISCOVERY SPORT •DISCOVERY SPORTDISCOVERY DISCOVERY SPORT •DISCOVERY SPORT DISCOVERY SPORT SPORT •DISCOVERY SPORT

DISCOVERY SPORT •DISCOVERY •DISCOVERY SPORT DISCOVERY SPORT •DISCOVERY ISCOVERY SPORT DISCOVERY SPORT•DISCOVERY SPORT DISCOVERY SPORT •DISCOVERY SPORTDISCOVERY SPORT •DISCOVERY SPORT DISCOVERY SPORT • DISCOVERY SPORT DISCOVERY SPORT •DISCOVERY SPORT DISCOVERY SPORT•DISCOVERYSPORT DISCOVERY SPORT •DISCOVERY SPORT DISCOVERY SPORT • DISCOVERY SPORT DISCOVERY SPORT • DISCOVERY SPORT•DISCOVERY SPORT DISCOVERY SPORT • DISCOVERY SPORT DISCOVERY SPORT •DISCOVERY SPORT DISCOVERY SPORT •DISCOVERY SPORT DISCOVERY SPORT •DISCOVERY SPORT DISCOVERY SPORT • DISCOVERY SPORT DISCOVERY SPORT•DISCOVERY SPORT DISCOVERY SPORT • DISCOVERY SPORT DISCOVERY SPORT •DISCOV ERY SPORTDISCOVERY SPORT•DISCOVERY SPORT DISCOVERY SPORT •DISCOVERY

•Computer

•Seetal

•State-of-the-art

•Comfortable

Sean Finning and Phillipa Gray-Finning owners ofPJ’s Tyres, which is afinalist in amajor VACC award.

Stop illegal burning off

EPA is investigating recent reports of increased on-farm illegal burn-offs and will contact property owners about disposal of industrial waste materials.

Last year, EPA Victoria cracked down on the practice of illegal burn-offs on farms fining offenders and warning that further enforcement would follow if non-compliant behaviour persisted.

“We have given several warnings already and fined individuals and companies that failed to listen to our advice; you cannot dispose via burning materials like treated pine posts, grape vine covers, rack sheets, waste tyres, agricultural plastic, mattresses, hessian and other general waste,” said Paul Ratajczyk, EPA north west regional manager.

“Smoke from waste burn-offs can lead to harmful effects on human health, particularly for people with asthma or other lung conditions, older people, pregnant women, babies and young children.”

If you see illegal burning off activity call EPA on 1300 372 842 or contact@ epa.vic.gov.au

The Compost Conversation

Youcan’t compost that…can you?

Have you been told that you can’t, or shouldn’t, compost aparticular thing?

Perhaps it is onion skins or citrus peel. Meat and dairy are on the exclusion list for lots of folk, or perhaps it’swaste oil or fats? Weed seeds, pest infested fruit and plants like couch or kikuyu grasses are usually sighted as nono’sfor home composting.

The list ofwhat we are told we can’t or shouldn’t compost is sometimes aslong as the things we are told we can and should!

Let’sbeclear,anything that has been alive, be it plant or animal in origin, can be successfully composted (broken down biologically), because, thankfully,nature is pretty adept at successfully decomposing things, it is why we are not living up to our necks in organic ‘waste’.

But it is true that some things are trickier or riskier to successfully compost than others. So, over the next few weeks we’ll have alook at afew of the broad categories of things that are often excluded from compost piles, why they are excludedand what we might do to successfully incorporatethem, or when we probably shouldn’t.

To kick off, let’slook at things with avery high volatile oil content –think citrus peels or eucalyptus leaves –things that have astrong aroma.

What we can smell with these ingredients is the volatile oils theyare high in. These oils givethe plant anatural microbial resistance and this is why they are often used as preservatives or disinfectants. These oils can make life difficult for our beneficial compost microbes, and this is particularly true when they are fresh.

Very small quantities of any of these are really not going to cause aproblem in our compost if they are chopped up finely and distributed well through our piles. Half citrus peels turn up pretty often in kitchen scraps, try chopping them into quarters or even eighths and mix them through your pile, the microbes and worms will incorporate them in time.

If we are dealing with larger quantities of any of these ingredients, leaving them to ‘off-gas’ their volatile oils will reduce the oil content and help the compost process agood deal. For example, abig pile of rosemary or eucalyptus leaves (both known preservatives) dumped into our compost all at once would really slow the compost microbes down, but, if left for six to 12 months will lose much of those volatile oils, smell less intense (that’sthe indicator) and will have less of an impact on our microbe friends.

Even after resting, they will need to be chopped up finely and distributed through our piles with abalance of other ingredients. The answer to successfully composting anything lies in getting the balance right(have you heard that before?), and no compost pile is going to do well if it is made of just one ingredient or too much ofany single ingredient.

Next week we’ll look at meat anddairy scraps.

–JoelMeadows works with *Yes In My Back Yard, (YIMBY), acommunity-scale composting initiative in Castlemaine and surrounds. Send questions or comments to hello@yimbycompost.com, or to book in for acompost workshop!

Glasses for Kids expands

Access to vision screening and free glasses for children has tripled in the state government’sGlasses for Kids program.

The Victorian Budget 2024/25 invested $6.8 million to boost capacity of the program to support more prep to year three students with free on-site vision screening and, if needed, free glasses. The Glasses for Kids program is managed and delivered by State Schools’ Relief and offered to students from Victorian Government schools identified with high and medium levels of disadvantage, based on the school’sStudent Family Occupational Education Index.

Considering putting high volatile organic compounds like citrus skins or rosemary in your compost?

Documentaries, miracles andwerewolves!

June 14-16 sees the Castlemaine Documentary Festival celebrating its 10th anniversary as it presents another fresh, engaging program at Castlemaine’s historic Theatre Royal.

On Sunday June 16 from 11am audiences can see the intriguing The Gullspång Miracle in which divine premonition leads two sisters to buy an apartment in the small Swedish town of Gullspång.

To their surprise, the seller looks identical to their older sister who died by suicide 30 years earlier At the behest of the sisters, afilmmaker begins to investigate this strange history and uncovers their secrets.

“This is one dark family drama -full of comically awkward situations and one engrossing revelation after another,” CDOC director Claire Jager said. Just across the road on Western Reserve, the popular Festival Yurt micro-cinema will host short documentaries from the Kids On The Silk Road series and activities across Saturday and Sunday with afocus on younger audiences –aswell as the sensationally spooky interactive game ‘Werewolves’ (suitable for festival goers 8+).

Games Master Nick Phillips will transport festival goers to the town of Millers Hollow,where werewolves are hunting the villagers, and it’suptoyou to locate the culprits before it’stoo late.

Claire was thrilled about the Kids On The Silk Road series.

“It’sa selection of four short films about the lives of children between the ages of 10 and 14, from countries along the old silk route like China, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan and Ukraine,” she said. “These stories are from the children’spoint of view and show their bravery,passion and how they take on life to the full.”

GirlAwayFrom Home (Ukraine) follows 13-yearold Nastia who is part of an elite gymnastics team in Kiev with four other girls. Together they win the Ukraine Championship but just one month later,war breaks out. Nastia has to flee with her grandmother to Germany,leaving her parents and teammates behind. The Monkey King (China) tells the tale of 11-yearold Yang who wins the lead role as the Monkey King playing at the famous Chinese Opera. However,he struggles to make friends at school. Nevertheless, he takes courage and invites three classmates to the premiere.

GirlWithGoals (Pakistan) is an uplifting story that follows 12-year-old Leeza, who lives high up in the mountains in northern Pakistan and who dreams of becoming afootball player to see the world and win a scholarship.

Bird Boy (Azerbaijan) details the story of 12-year-old Reshat who lives in the oil fields of Baku, Azerbaijan. When he looks up dreamily,hesees pigeons flying to heaven. He misses his father,who died ayear ago, and who also loved these birds. His father taught him that he should be kind to birds, because souls fly to heaven ontheir wings.

For more on the program or tickets visit: cdocff.com. au/full-program-2024/ticketing

Get your ticket to win

Purchase afull festival pass by June 8togointo the draw to win one of six fabulous prizes, including: a $100 Wild Food and Wine voucher,a bottle of Animus Gin, a$50 Stoneman’sBookroom voucher and more.

Winners notified by email.

Full festival pass holders also receive 10 per cent off one meal aday over the weekend and unlimited beer and wine discounts at Love Shack so be sure to

yours today

Bright minds at Woodend

TheWoodend Winter Arts Festival is set to deliver lively discussion and debate with some of Australia’sbrightest minds over the King’sBirthday long weekend (June 7-10).

The Words and Ideas Program has been akey feature of the Woodend Winter Arts Festival since its inception 19 years ago. The program kicks offonthe Saturday morning as leading science journalist and author,Elizabeth Finkel, along with apanel globally recognized leaders discuss the nature of consciousness and how machines are increasingly matching the capabilities of humans. Finkel will then lead asecond thought-provoking discussion around her book Proof, which discusses scientific method in action in the 21st century.Later that day,festival director Jacqueline Ogeil will chat with award-winning composer and broadcaster

Andrew Ford about his new book, The Shortest HistoryofMusic

On Sunday,Nobel prize winner Peter Doherty will be joined by respected journalist and author Gideon Haigh for an insightful discussion on war and peace. Haigh will then lead aseparate discussion on his embrace of self-publishing. That afternoon, the Sheila Drummond Memorial will see three of Australia’smost influential writers, Sally Warhaft, Don Watson and George Megalogenis, lead a lively discussion on how we unite the city and the bush in the 21st century

The Words and Ideas program ends with afun and engaging discussion with evolutionary geneticist and singer Professor Jenny Graves, quizzed by ABC Science Show personality Robyn Williams. Tickets are on sale now and selling fast. woodendwinterartsfestival.org.au

Pizza and Wine Day at Paramoor Winery SundayJune 9

Mark your calendar for June9th. Indulge in a perfect pairing of gourmet wood-fired pizzas and exquisite local wines. It’sthe perfect day out for food and wine lovers! 11am-5pm. All premium wines released are available for tasting over the King's Birthday Weekend!

439 Three Chain Rd,Carlsruhe 0409 634 649| paramoor.com.au

grab

In between films young festival goers can grab aticket to participate in the interactive game Werewolves. Photo: Madison Griffiths

Breaking thesilencethroughmusic thhe silencce e thrroouggh h music

Castlemaine Safe Space is hosting a 'Breaking the Silence through Music' fundraiser at the Red Hill Hotel on June 14.

Artists to take the stage include Spitting Chips featuring Bill Walsh and Peter Jones, and local bands Gherkinator with Doug Falconer on drums, and local punk outfit K5. The night will also include asilent art auction, raffle and finger food.

The Chewton event aims to raise awareness of the Castlemaine Safe Space –and to encourage speaking up and out around mental health issues, and connecting with others in a fun way

“This fundraiser is an opportunity for the community to get together,have some fun, listen to some great music, and find out more about Castlemaine Safe Space,” says the CSS Working Group.

“Wewant to support sharing experiences about mental health and making anoise around keeping connected, and what better way to do it, while enjoying agood night out at awonderful venue, listening to an inspiring mix of talent.”

Castlemaine Safe Space is nearly two years old and continues to offer asafe, non-clinical, warm and friendly space for those in distress.

It is currently located at Castlemaine Community House, 30 Templeton Street and open Tuesdays 6pm-8pm and Saturdays 1.30pm-4pm.

Tickets are $15 pre-booked via Trybooking.com and $20 on the door.Doors open at 6.30pm, bands start at 8pm.

The event is supported by aWesley Hill Grief and Loss Grant. To learn more about Castlemaine Safe Space visit: castlemainesafespace.org

SUPER QUIZ?

The following are all types of what: cirrus, stratus, cumulus and nimbus?

8. Which star sign is commonly depicted with abow and arrow? 9. What is the world’s longest river? (3 points)

10. Which actor connects the follow films: Edward Scissorhands, Black Swan, Heathers, How to make an American Quilt and Beetlejuice? Super Quiz answers: 1. Macedon Ranges Suicide Prevention Action

Arrest over thefts from vehicles

Detectives from Macedon Ranges Crime Investigation Unit and uniform officers arrested three people following aseries of alleged thefts from motor vehicles in Kyneton earlier this month. It is alleged items including clothing, sports equipment and wallets, were stolen from vehicles parked on Mollison Street, Baynton Street, Maxwell Street, Simpson Street and Campaspe Drive overnight between May 11 andMay 12.

Police charged a20-year-old Kyneton woman and a21-year-old Kyneton man with theft from motor vehicle and obtain property by deception.

They will both appear at Kyneton Magistrates Court on September 2.

A24-year-old Kyneton man will be charged on summons for allegedly possessing property suspected of being the proceeds of crime.

Detectives remind car owners to remove valuable items from their vehicles and keep them locked.

Scouts farewell retiring leaders

Woodend Scout Group is celebrating retiring scout leaders Marli Traill, Elaine Young, Colleen Dwyer-Gray and Pam Lenders. Between them, the four women share 125 years of experience and have shared their wisdom and knowledge along the way Memories of their time include general scouting adventures, navigating aglobal pandemic and, of course, the Anzac Day dawn service at the Mount Macedon Memorial Cross.

During their years ofservice they have also been awarded for their leadership. Marli andColleen have both been honoured with the Silver Emu –awarded to leaders for great responsibility of service over 14-16 years. Silver

Emu is ahigh honour –awarded to Silver Koala recipientswho have already achieved several years of successful leadership. Elaine has been awarded the Meritorious Service Award, which acknowledges an extended period of high performance. She has also been presented the Silver Wattle for outstanding service for 10-12 years. Special event Woodend Scout Group is hosting an afternoon tea to celebrate years of service of these scout leaders.

Celebrations will be held at Woodend scout hall'slog cabin on Sunday,June 16, from 2pm to 5pm. RSVP by June10toChris Eagle via: gl.1stwoodend@ scoutsvictoria.com.au

Group. 2. Castlemaine Jazz Festival. 3. Kyneton. 4. Matthew Driscoll.

Nile River (6650 km).

Gherkinator will be among the local talent to perform at ‘Breaking the Silence through Music’ event. Photo: Joey Nippz

@

Y YourOPINIONS

Hypocrisy needs to be called out

Glynn Jarrett, Ravenswood South

The Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan’s efforts to combat domestic violence are to be applauded. However,the Premier’s hypocrisy must be called out in her allowing the horrendous duck shooting season to continue. This clearly exposes ignorance of the link between animal cruelty and DV Research has shown violence towards animals is astrong predictor of violence against humans, especially intimate partners.

Developmental psychologist Dr Eleonora Gullone has done extensive research on this topic. She discusses the significance of compromised compassion and empathy in social species and says, “Killing animals in the form of hunting for purely recreational purposes is no less than ademonstration of compromised empathy and compassion”.

If the Premier is so concerned about DV,then why does she support the abhorrent cruel sport of duck and quail hunting, the killing of innocent Australian wildlife? Victoria needs leadership that reduces any form of violence, especially male-orientated violence labeled as recreation. This can never be justified.

In supporting this cruelty,the premier has rejected her own government’s'Native Bird Hunting Inquiry' recommendation that duck shooting be banned. Her announcement of over $10 million dollar Budget, money that could be supporting victims of domestic violence, allocated to promote duck and quail shooting rubs salt into the wounds of everyone who opposes this horrific legal slaughter

Why allocate funds to just 0.17 per cent of Victoria’spopulation, to create annual killing fields rather than listening to the 88 per cent of Victorians concerned about the maiming and suffering of ducks?

Afraction of the cost

Ian Lillington, CampbellsCreek

Re. John Ingram'sletter about the Castlemaine-Maryborough Railway Line ('Restore the railway line', Opinions, May 28).

Ilive next to the old Campbells Creek rail station and watched the last maintenance

engine trundle through in 2007. Although I’d love to catch atrain here, no amount of tourism or localpassengers will warrant the costs involved in making it arailwayagain. Instead Isupport the Castlemaine-Maryborough Rail Trail group who have already been successful in fundinga detailed feasibility study,which shows that it can be restored for bikesand walkers at only afraction of the cost of arailline. This includes rebuilding all the bridges and crossings, but in alightweight style –therefore cheaper than the engineering needed to carry trains. There are many such rail trails already in use around Australia. They bring millions of dollars to businesses and small towns along the route. And, for many people, the Rail Trail will become asafe way to commute to work or school. The trail in Castlemaine and Campbells Creek goes past two primary schools and hundreds of children could use it to get safely to school, away from traffic. With ashort link to the Botanical Gardens, it can serve the secondary college as well.

Aworld-class facility

JaniceSimpson, president, Castlemaine-Maryborough Rail Trail Inc

Re.John Ingram'sletter about the Castlemaine-Maryborough Railway Line ('Restore the railway line', Opinions, May 28).

TheCastlemaine-Maryborough Rail Trail Inc has made great progress towards establishing aworld-class walking and cycling facility along this route. Over the past three years, wehavereceived funds from local and state government based on clear evidence thatthere won’t be areturn of rail services on this route.

Eleven years ago, the Victorian Government commissioned afeasibility study Rail Revival: Geelong-Ballarat-Bendigo Project Feasibility Study that costed the restoration of the Moolort line for freight trains. Although there may be alogistical case for afreight line, the price-tag was estimated at $340m back then. Priceshavegone up considerably since, the current cost being in the vicinity of half abillion dollars. Aconsultant stated that "reinstating arail service would come at acost comparable to constructing an entirely new rail line". And if such money was to be found, anew route entirely from Bendigo to Maryborough could be proposed.

Telstraupgrade forRomsey

Telstra will upgrade its mobile base station at Romsey East this month resulting in a series temporary outages or reduction in mobile service.

The upgrades are for additional infrastructure to bring better 4G services and new 5G coverage to the community

On June 11 to June 16 there will be no 3G/4G Telstra mobile coverage from this site. Further works with minimal disruptions will be required during daylight hours on June 17 and June 18 as works are done to complete the call testing and integration of the mobile network.

Telstra mobile customers will receive text messages advising of the upcoming work. Landline services, NBN internet services and mobile coverage from other providers will not be impacted.

Any calls to Triple Zero from aTelstra mobile when the site is offair will automatically be diverted to any working mobile network for connection to emergency services.

Regional general manager for Telstra, Steve Tinker,saidwhile crews needed to work during daylight for safety,they would only be switching offthe site when they needed to and would have it back on as quickly as possible.

“There’snever agood time to undertake this sort of work but once it is completed, it will mean better mobile services for local residents,” Mr Tinker said.

For mobile coverage in the interim, if residents have access to awi-fi signal at home or at work, Telstra encourages residents to activate wi-fi calling. This is afree setting on most popular mobile phones and allows your mobile to use aWi-Fi network to make and receive mobile calls.

To find out more you can google Telstra Wi-Fi calling or just search in your settings icon on your phone.

Many EFTPOS terminals can also be connected using fixed line or Wi-Fi/NBN internet connections. Retailers should contact their bank for more information and details on how to switch between these methods to ensure continuous service.

For customers wishing to access 5G on the Telstra network, you will need a5G capable device so for some people, it may mean upgrading your current device.

In contrast, the Rail Trail feasibility study shows that it can be reused for bikes and walkers for acapital cost of approximately $25m. There are many such rail trails already in use around Australia. They bring millions of dollars of business to small towns along the route. This trail once built will bring more than $8m per year into small communities along the trail as well as Castlemaine and Maryborough.

For many residents, the Rail Trail will become asafe way,perhaps their main way, to commute to work or school. The trail in Castlemaine and Campbells Creek goes past two primary schools and hundreds of children can use it to get safely to school, away from traffic.

Finally,itisclear that none of the works proposed as part of the feasibility study stops re-establishing the train line in the future, should it become viable. The railway corridor,within which the trail is proposed, will still be owned by VicTrack andwill be leased for the purposes of the rail trail.

The feasibility study is available on our website –cmrailtrail.org.au

Common sense welcome

Hans Paas,Castlemaine

Re. 'Council assisting Creek campers' (Express, May 28).

The welcome injection of some common sense in the planning dispute that threatened to make Ms Meyers and Mr Muller homeless has demonstrated that our council is still capable of listening to its residents, however rudely the message was delivered. It is noteworthy that this change of heart has come just afew months away from the council elections though.

Ihope the “sharing information on options for their immediate housing needs” is a genuine offer of assistance and not athreat.

The council does still seem to be alittle confused as its focus seemed to drift back to discouraging camping on one'sproperty before telling us what thoseoptions could be. In these hard times of increasing homelessness it is beholden on governments at all levels to do their best to avoid aggravating the crisis.

Wouldn't it be wonderfulif our council set aside some publicly owned land to set up a space that could accommodate temporary housing like caravans, tiny houses, tents and even just asafe area for those living in

their cars?A showerand toilet block would be all that was needed to help those who otherwise have run out of housing options. 'You're dreamin' some would say

Thanksone andall!

Lilian, Peterand theextended Skilbeck family,Plaistow,JoycesCreek

When we got up at 6am on Saturday May 25 to ready ourselves forthe BiggestMorning Tea for funds for theCancer Council we wondered what the daymay bring. Aheavy frost, wet grass, cold air but as the morning progressed we hadclear sky, no rain, sunshine and by the duetime of 10am a garden full of fabulous andgenerousguests. We knowofpeople who travelled from as far afield as Albury, Westernport Bay, Bendigo, Ballarat andall the local villages and towns. How many came we don’t know as we were too busy to count, but what we do know is that they came because of thepublicity online organised by our granddaughter and the amazing support from thelocaland community newspapers. The Midland Express/ Castlemaine Mail, The Tarrengower Times and The Maryborough Advertiser all sent journalists to research and write their own stories. We are truly grateful. We must also thank the Newstead Echo

Again we were entertained by Platform Souls with support from several additional musicians from far afield. Numerous guests spoke highly of their musical skills and great and diverse music.

Frequently we hear of the valueofvolunteers. The BMT could nothappen without the support of those joyful people who make scones andother goodies, pour teaand coffee, clear andwash dishes, stoke the fire pits, look after parking and thegateand who knit forthe year prior to have product for the stall andwho donate product forthe raffle. We thank you from the bottom of ourhearts for yourjoyoushelp and support.

This year with online donations andsales and cash received on the day we have been able to enrich the Cancer Council coffers by $6581.15. We don’t know where the 15 cents came from but every little bit counts towards the work of the incredible organisation the Cancer Council.

All being well, we intend to have aBiggest Morning Tea on Saturday May 24, 2025. We still have bulk coloured daffodil bulbs for sale at very competitive prices. Contact us for details on 0419 884 710.

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

3Market St., PO Box153,Kyneton, 3444

Telephone: (03) 5422 1488

Facsimile: General (03) 5422 3173

13 Hargraves St.,POBox 227,Castlemaine,3450 Telephone: (03) 5472 1788 Facsimile: (03) 5472 4504

Bags of fun

THURSDAY,

Awelcoming group from all walks of life, the Woodend Community Bags team meets weekly to make reusable bags from recycled materials that are sold at the Woodend Farmers Market and at outlets around Woodend.

"Our colourful, well-designed, individually sewn bags display the Woodend Community Bag label," group member Sheila Brennan said.

"Made from donated fabrics, they are an essential when shopping and assist our monthly Farmers Market to be plastic bag free.

"They are also one true handmade Woodend souvenir –ideal for gifting to family and friends."

Proceeds from bag sales are funnelled back into the community through donations to sustainable projects undertaken by avariety of charitable organisations.

Recent donations have gonetoward purchase of awater tank for Path of the Horse, asolar-powered bird fountain for Glen OsmondFarm, and atrailer upgrade for Woodend Landcare.

"Our roots stem from the global Boo-

merang Bags movement, whichconnects and empowers local communities totackle plastic pollution at its sourcebymaking bags, diverting waste, starting conversations, fostering sustainable behaviour and having abit of fun!" Sheila said.

"While continuing to embrace our roots we are now acommunity action group of the Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group, anot-for-profit, member-based organisation focussing on projects, events and practical activities that promote sustainable living in our local communities."

Woodend Community Bags meets on Thursday mornings from 9-12 in the Undercroft below the Woodend Neighbourhood House. It is afree activity and everyone is welcome.

There are many ways to be involved and sewing skills aren’t necessary.Over acuppa and achat you can learn how to sew,cut,pin, bundle and iron and make some lovely friends while helping the environment –and others –one bag at atime.

Enquiries to Woodend Neighbourhood House on (03) 5427 1845.

NewZonta president

The Zonta Club of Kyneton has anew president.

Local GP,DrAnnamarie Perlesz was installed as the new president at the club’scelebratory changeover dinner in Kyneton recently

Zonta is an international service club that aims to improve the legal, political, economic, educational, health and professional status of women at aglobal and local level through service and advocacy

Dr Perlesz was presented with the president’spin from area director and Geelong Zonta Club member,Chris Denmead.

Dr Perlesz takes over the role from outgoing president Jenny Kerr

During the celebration, long-time club member Ronda Walker was acknowledged for her 30 years ofmentorship to club members.

Also newly appointed to the board were Leonie Penfold as vice-president and Maxine McKee and Sue Bruton as directors. Jenny Kerr remains on the board as secretary

Kyneton High School captain Olivia Hedge, this year’srecipient of the Zonta Young Women in Public Affairs Award, was guest speaker at the dinner celebration. Olivia spoke about her successful sustainability projects in the 3442 postcode area.

ZontaKynetoniswell knownfor its many local awards and scholarships for student achievement.

Kyneton Zonta members also advocate against gender-based violence; actively sew breast cushions for women with breast cancer and pack birthing kits to help women in poorer countries to give birth in aclean and safe environment.

Maxine McKee, Sue Bruton, Chris Denmead, Dr Annamarie Perlesz and Leonie Penfold are pictured atthe Zonta ClubofKyneton’s recent celebratory dinner to welcome in the new board.

The Woodend Community Bags team meets weekly to make reusable bags from recycled materials.

Midland

PROPE RT Y&L IVI NG

Welcome to this architect-designed sanctuary, amarvel of modern design, set against the tranquil backdrop of the Vaughan countryside. This exquisite home, constructed by alocal builder,boasts adistinctive butterfly roof, casting an architectural silhouette that’sboth bold and harmonious with its natural surroundings.

Step inside to discover polished concrete floors that flow seamlessly throughout the home, offering acontemporary aesthetic and easy maintenance. The home’ssolar passive design, complemented by double-glazed windows, maximizes natural light and maintains acomfortable internal climate year-round.

The open-plan living area presents private, breathtaking views over the expansive land, creating aperfect blend of indoor and outdoor living. The Italian-imported wood heater is acentrepiece of both form and function, connected to underfloor hydronic heating to ensure warmth and comfort during the cooler months.

Culinary enthusiasts will revel in the sleek kitchen, featuring agiant island bench and

Caesarstone countertops. Equipped with awalk-in butlers pantry,double oven, and dishwasher,this space is designed for both everyday cooking and gourmet entertaining.

The accommodation includes three generous bedrooms, with the main suite offering awalkthrough robe and aluxurious private ensuite.

The sophisticated family bathroom includes awalk-in shower,bath and dual vanity,and the spacious, practical laundry provides external access to apaved utility area, enhancing convenience.

Outside, the property continues to impress with adouble carport, enclosed single garage, and an attached studio room-ideal for ahome office, creative space, or guest accommodation.

Alarge entertaining deck overlooks the land, with raised garden beds, afire pit area, and beautiful hand-built stone walls adding to the charm of the outdoor space.

Sprawling across approximately 2.5 acres, the property is serviced by 120,000 litres of rain water storage and mains power

Idyllic countryretreat

Set on 1.5 acres (approx.), between Guildford and Newstead, this country retreat sits amongst rustic established gardens and has much to fall in love with.

Inside is cosy and light-filled, featuring original timber floorboards throughout, awood-burning heater and reverse cycle unit for year-round comfort. The cottage offers three bedrooms, kitchen/dining, living, bathroom and laundry.Additionally,there is aseparate modern studio bathed in natural light, a perfect space for artists, writers, home office or extra accommodation.

Outside is ahaven for nature lovers, with lush greenery and ample space, creating atranquil atmosphere. The undercover front deck is perfect for hosting gatherings with family and friends. Extras include adouble carport with adjoining shed, 3m x3mgarden shed and two water tanks. Conveniently located less than four minutes to Newstead and just a20minute commute to Castlemaine and Daylesford. This picturesque property will make an ideal home, country retreat or weekender

Atwo dwelling retreaton16acres,thispeacefullifestyle property is theperfect opportunity foryourtreechangedreams to becomea reality. Themain dwelling offerstwo bedrooms, open plan kitchenand living, dining room,bathroom andlaundry.There is a wood heater, reversecycle unit and ceilingfansfor year-round comfort. Additionally, aone bedroom self contained bungalowwithopenplankitchen/dining/living andbathroom. Extras include largecarport,machinery shedwithlock-up workshop,two largewater tanks and dam. Solarpower,solar HW andtank waterall included. Locatedonly6 minutes from Newstead townshipand ashort drive to Castlemaine,Maldonand Daylesford.

Country retreaton1.5 acres (approx.)

208 Hepburn-Newstead Road,Strangways

$685,000

Keogh Real Estate

Areyou adeveloper?Orperhaps an enthusiastic renovatorlooking foryournext project? Look no further, an opportunitylikethis, in this location,isbecoming increasingly hard to find. Setonan875sqmallotment, approx 500m from the heartoftown. Theperiodhome, whichdoesrequirea fairamount of work,offers threebedrooms, kitchen, dining,lounge, two bathrooms and laundry. Theyard hasa smallgarden shed(3m x4m) andlargershed(6.7m x4.4m)

$735,000

NEWPRICE

16 Acres

Rareoffering

Proudly held by only two owners since 1901 this delightful home will draw you in and capture your imagination. The property comprises two titles, two crown allotments with three road frontages, (approx.) 2.9 acres with an additional road lease of (approx.) one acre. Beautiful unrestricted views of the iconic viaduct from the end of day terrace give this property aromantic and peaceful quality

This original home now has modern improvements including insulation, updated bathroom and stylish galley kitchen. The inviting, richly toned lounge room has an air sophistication. Double glass doors, hinged to lay flat against the wall reveal the kitchen and sunroom, both spaces ideal for dining entertaining or extra living areas.

The spacious and lofty garage provides plentiful storage or workshop area. Easy access to the side yard enclosed by double gates and picket front fence.

Aseparate music room/library boasting aflagstone floor and unique Castlemaine stone

Location, location, location!

Opportunities like this don’t come along very often. This property is waiting for that business opportunity to become reality at last.

*Land (approx.) 1999m

*Brilliant central position

*TRZ 3significant municipal road.

*Approved plans and permit for achildcare facility

*Heritage building to be retained with approved plans.

*Zoning CZ1-commercial zone 1. Ideal zoning for your non childcare project.

*54.9km to Melbourne CBD Post Office.

Please copy and the following link for the Information Memorandum -vltre.co/pqWFTJ

*ID required upon inspection.

Belle Property Castlemaineand Maldon.

2/139 HargravesStreet, Castlemaine

2a 1b 2v 285r

•Two-bedroom unitdesigned forcomfortand convenience, just 5-minfrom Castlemaine.

•Spacious lounge, kitchen with modern wall oven andfull-sized laundry.

•Private courtyard andsingle car garage.

Blasi Mulholland |0417311 733

Rob Waller |0418571 130

sale

8thJune 10:30am -11:00am

3a 2b 3v 914r

•Victorian retreatwithtallceilings, classic features and an open-plan living area

•Fireplace,reversecycle airand gas kitchen with gardenoutlook.

•Steel framed garage-workshop (9mx 7.5m). 38 Maldon Road, McKenzie Hill

Rob Waller |0418571 130

Blasi Mulholland |0417311 733

6Ellison Street,Woodend

4a 2b 2v 625r

•Refined modernliving homewith spacious interiors including seperate lounge room.

•Lavish main bedroom with ensuite, walk-in robe andalso ducted heating andcooling.

•Inviting alfresco area anddouble garage.

Brett Tweed |0417564 697

Rob Waller |0418571 130 For sale

$1,140,000$1,160,000 View Thursday6th June 4:30pm-5:00pm

Belle PropertyCastlemaine |5470 5811

167 Barker Street, Castlemaine Belle PropertyMaldon |5475 1055 30A MainStreet,Maldon

420 -2488r

•Selected lots in stagetwo and three now available

•Register to secure your lot

•Blocks from 420m2 -2488m2 Lots 22-53 Ireland Street, McKenzie Hill

Rob Waller |0418 571 130

Blasi Mulholland |0417311 733

Scan to viewour

Astunning example of the semi-rural lifestyle you rarely find in this highly regarded and majestic part of central Victoria.

With amazing views of both Mt Alexander and Mt Tarrengower and also to Mt Franklin and Mt Macedon this parcel of (approx.) 59 acres offers aserene setting overlooking its rolling pastures, dams, wattle groves and established corridors of natives established in part by Connecting Country all inundated with birdlife is well positioned only 15 mins Castlemaine, 20 mins Bendigo and five mins Harcourt.

The stone family home is nestled at the end of the driveway which follows aridgeline providing you with some astounding visual aspects of the property and beyond creating alevel of excitement for what lies ahead.

The home sits amid established gardens and offers alight filled living environment throughout with large windows and polished timber floors,

Address: 207Gaaschs Road,Harcourt

Price: $1,800,000 -$1,950,000

Agent: Castlemaine Property Group

Breathtaking lifestyle

featuring two large bedrooms, third bedroom, two central bathrooms, spacious lounge room with amazing stone open fireplace, open country style kitchen with room for meals table and an adjoining family area.

Anumber of rooms have access to outdoor decks with wonderful outlooks ideal for afternoon teas or evening drinks and the kitchen gives access to aprivate patio to further enhance the outdoor entertaining benefits.

Beyond the house yard is astone studio which could be additional accommodation or home office there is ashed with earthen floor,ample storage water for domestic use and there are 16 solar panels connected back to the grid.

The property has been planted out to reinvigorate the native flora and fauna, dam water is pumped to the gardens and the sunsets are to die for so do not hesitate in taking the opportunity to inspect this truly amazing property

Property: Stone home ideal forfamily and entertaining among local flora and faunaon(approx.) 59 acres

Contact: Brett Fitzpatrick 0419 833 510 /Brett Waller 0407610 268

Letour experience be your advantagewhenyou sell this winter.

Raine& Horne have been helping homeowners navigate the real estate market for over 141years. We use this experience to your advantage,giving you the confidence in knowing you areinsafe, expert hands.

Combined with our knowledge, experience and cutting-edgetechnology, we will ensure your selling experience is seamless and stress-free.

GRANT -Janette ‘Jan’ Daphne

01.11.1946 –24.05.2024

Janpassed away on 24th of May2024, aged 77 yearsold.

BelovedMother of Brenna. Supportive Mother-in-lawof Dominic. Cherished Grannyof Rafael and Caspian. Foreverinour hearts

APrivate

Cremation will be held in accordance with Jan’swishes

MORAN

AmyEvelyn

20.3.1932- 24.5.2024

Dearly lovedsister of Lorna. Much lovedaunty to her neices and nephews

Sadlymissed.

Aprivate funeral has been held.

STRUTH Margaret June Dearly lovedsister of Ronnie (dec.), sister-in-lawofWendy Auntie of Tracey and Darren RestPeacefully

KN278445/L SWAIN -Danny

Precious memories of our brother in law. We will miss the good times Betty(dec)

Deaths Always loved and Remembered

Normpassed away 27th May2024 Youngestchild of the late George and EffieEvery, brother of George,John and Fred Every, and Lillian Cartledge (all dec).

Loving husband of Norma foralmost 66 years and father of Christopher,Kathryn, John, Alison, Amanda, Andrewand partners

Loving grandfatherto14grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. We all have so manyhappymemories, youwill be foreverinour hearts

Rest peacefully

MATRICARDI -Luigi (Gino)

BorninRipaTeatina (Italy) 25 August,1936

Passed away peacefullyon31May,2024

Belovedhusband of Cesira (Dec) of 59 years. Much lovedand adored dadof Adrian, Ben,Livia &Cello,respected father in lawtoAnna, Matthew& Trudi. Adored NonnoofJake, Luke, Nicholas &Lucinda, Daniel&Chelsea, Cooper &Georgia, Riley& Zoey, Darcy, Ryan, Hayley& Dylan andJessica

Devoted Bisnonno to Hugo &Oscar.

LovedStep Nonno to Leah, Mikayla, Alaina, Matt, Eli,Archie,Nadia, Marco, Sebastain, Elliott &Angus Acaring, kindand generousman who willmissedbymany.

Foreverinour hearts and memories

Reunited withthe love of his lifeCesira. ‘Mr &Mrs Gino together again’ Forfuneraldetails checkTJScott &Son

KN278567/L

When it’s difficult to put into words

Contact our friendly stafffor advice

Kyneton 5422 1488 | Castlemaine 5472 1788

Email: classifieds@midnews.com.au

OTT -Doug Thank youtoour family,friends and church family for their love,prayers and comfort. The doctors,nurses and staff at the Castlemaine Hospital fortheir care theygaveDoug. Love Joy, Travis and Melissa

Family and friends are invited to attend Norm’sfuneral service, to be held in the Chapel of Mount Alexander Funerals, 12 Campbell Street, Castlemaine TOMORROW (Wednesday) at 11.00am. Following this service the cortege will leave forthe Castlemaine Cemetery.

CLASSIFIEDS

Remember them with love and a tribute

Contact classifieds Kyneton 5422 1488 |Castlemaine 5472 1788 E: classifieds@midnews.com.au

NOTICE TO ALL ADVERTISERS

Section 29 of the FairTrading Act 1999requires the inclusion of afullnameand address (not PO BoxNumber) –inall advertisements for the supply of goods 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.

Employment

LYTTLETON STREET CASTLEMAINE www.goldfieldsmedicalgroup.com.au

• Flexible Hours -Above Award Wages

• Previous Medical Receptionistexperience preferred.

• We are looking foravibrantand reliable person with

• Exceptional customer services skills to join our team. Email coverletter and resume to: practicemanager@goldfieldsmedicalgroup.com.au

Employment

Liam HowleyRacing General Office Administration Permanent Part Time -15to20hours per week Office Hours -MondaytoFriday Between 9am to 3pm.

Liam HowleyRacing has afantastic opportunity forasuitable candidate to join our

CASH-A-CAN

Wesley Hill Market

MACEDON RANGES PLANNING SCHEME

Notice of the Preparation of an Amendment to aPlanning Scheme and Notice of an Application fora Planning Permit Given Under Section 96C of the Planning and Environment Act 1987

Amendment C154macr

Planning Permit Application PLN/2022/354

THE HOUSE GALLERY REDESDALE

WORKERS WANTED

Locale Vegetation seeks dedicated individuals for vegetation management in Kyneton!

Tipper & Chipper Operators | EWP Cutters | Mechanics

Responsibilities include assessing, trimming and removing vegetation near powerline.

Our advanced fleet and accredited systems ensure efficient service in challenging conditions

Safety and quality are paramount. If you’re ready for a hands-on role in essential infrastructure maintenance, apply now. Previous experience with vegetation is preferred however not essential

Competitive pay - 9 day fortnights - Training provided APPLY NOW Email your CV to Dylan Britton at dbritton@localecivil com

For all enquiries and further information call Dylan on 0439 338 160

Overview

The combined amendment and planning permit application seeks to facilitate thedevelopment of a retirement village on land bound by Robertson Street, Neal Street and Hamilton Street in Gisborne

The amendment rezones partofthe land from the Special Use Zone,Schedule4(Private Hospital) to the General Residential Zone,Schedule1.The amendment also applies the Design and Development Overlay, Schedule 17 to the land, facilitates the removalofthe restrictivecovenant N077525L and replaces the Gisborne/NewGisborne Framework Plan at Clause 11.01-1L. In addition to the retirement village,the amendment will facilitate theremovalofnativevegetation (one tree) and alterations to access to aTransportZone 2(TRZ2 –Principal Road network) in line with planning application PLN/2022/354.

Forfurther details,refer to the explanatoryreport.

Details of the amendment

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council planning authority has prepared Amendment C147macr to the Macedon Ranges Planning Scheme

The land affected by theamendment is:

•Partof5 Neal Street, Gisborne known as Lot 8on LP58420

•Partof8 Neal Street, Gisborne known as Part of Land in CP166202N and Lot 1onLP205979

•76and 78 HamiltonStreet, Gisborne known as Lot 1onTP236007G,Lot 1onTP561612X, Lot 2onTP561612Xand Lot 1onTP318877T

•80Hamilton Street, Gisborne known as Lot 7on LP58420

•Partofthe Neal Street road reserve,Gisborne

The land affected by theplanning permit application is:

•Partof5 Neal Street, Gisborne known as Lot 8on LP058420

•8 Neal Street, Gisborne known as land in CP166202N, Lot 1onLP205979 and Lot 1on PS335823K.

•Partof80 Hamilton Street, Gisborne known as Lot 7on LP58420

•1Ato10A (inclusive)/61 Robertson Street, Gisborne known as Lot 1on PS335823K.

The amendment proposes to:

•Rezone land described as partof5 Neal Street, partof8 Neal Street, 10 Neal Street, 76 and 78 Hamilton Street, Gisborne and partofthe Neal Street road reserve in Gisborne from the Special Use Zone,Schedule 4(Private Hospital) to the General Residential Zone,Schedule 1.

•Apply the Design andDevelopment Overlay, Schedule 17 (DDO17 -Gisborne Town Centre Residential Area)toall ofthe affected land except the Neal Street road reserve

•Amend Clause 11.01-1L in the Planning Policy Framework to inserta newGisborne/New Gisborne Framework Plan to identify the land as apreferred area formedium density housing and to correct alabelling error with the General Residential Zone label contained in the legend.

•Amend the Schedule to Clause 52.02 to facilitate the removalofthe restrictivecovenant from Lot 1onPlanofSubdivision 205979T,which restricts the use of the land foraretirement village

The permit application is forthe use of land foraretirement village,the construction of building/s and works associated with aretirement village,the removalofnativevegetation (one tree) and alterations to access to aTransportZone 2(TRZ2 –Principal road network).

The applicant forthe permit is Anglican Aged Care Services Group (trading as Benetas).

Youmay inspect the amendment, anydocuments that supportthe amendment and the explanatory reportabout the amendment, free of charge,at:

•the Department of Transportand Planning website https://www.planning.vic.gov.au/ planning-schemes/amendments/amendments-on-exhibition or by contacting 1800 789 386 to arrange atime to viewthe amendment documentation

•the Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil website at yoursay.mrsc.vic.gov.au/c147

•onrequest, during office hours,atthe office of the planning authority,Macedon Ranges Shire Council at the KynetonCouncil Office,129 Mollison Street, Kynetonand Gisborne Council Office 40 Robertson Street Gisborne by contacting 03 5421 9680 to arrange atime to view the amendment documentation.

Anyperson maymakea submission to the planning authority about the amendment and the application. Submissions must be made in writing giving the submitter’sname and contact address, clearly stating the grounds on which the amendment and/or application are supported or opposed and indicating what changes (if any) the submitter wishes to make.

Name and contact details of submitters are required forplanning authority to consider submissions and to notify suchpersons of the opportunity to attend planning authority meetings andany public hearing held to consider submissions

The closing date forsubmissions is Friday12 July 2024. Asubmission must be sent to council via:

•email -tostrategicplanning@mrsc.vic.gov.au

•post -addressed to: Strategic Planning, Macedon Ranges Shire Council, PO Box151, Kyneton VIC 3444, or

•in-person at aMacedon Ranges Shire Council customer service centre in Gisborne,Kyneton, RomseyorWoodend.

The planning authority must makea copy of everysubmission available at its office and/or its website forany person to inspect freeofcharge until the end of the two months after the amendment comes into operation or lapses

BERNIE O’SULLIVAN Chief ExecutiveOfficer

KYNETON

Collins Newsagency -Mollison St

Express Office -Market Street

Fika Café

Kyneton Home Hardware

Kyneton IGA

Kyneton /Daylesford Drycleaners

Watts Fresh -Mollison Street

8

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 &PostOffice

MT.MACEDON

Mt Macedon Trading post

ROMSEY

Romsey IGA

LANCEFIELD

Newsagency

Property Management Macedon Ranges

CASTLEMAINE

Ampol Service Station -Johnstone Street

Belle Property -Barker Street

Caravan Park Big -Doran Street

Castlemaine IGA -BarkerStreet

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 -BarkerStreet

Maxi IGA -Hargreaves Street

Newsagency -Mostyn Street

Petstock -Forrest Street

Regional Enterprise -Halford Street

Tingays smash repairs -Elizabeth Street

CHEWTON /TARADALE

ELPHINSTONE

Grist Bakery -WesleyHill

EastEnd 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

IGATrophyreturned

Kyneton croquet players continued on their winning way last week when they took on Castlemaine for the IGA Challenge Trophy.Fourpairs from each club played around robin format to decide the winner

The first round was even with the clubs sharing the games; Len Baker and Darryl Chivers got Kyneton offtoa good start with a7 hoops to 4win over Nigel Harland and Nick Quirk. Chris Bell and TomComerford hit back for Castlemaine with agood 7-1 win against Deborah Bosman and George Lund. Judy Aldred and John Teed restored the position for Kyneton beating Heather Crawley and Steve Duffy 7-4 before Castlemaine evened it up again with Anne Harland and Peter Morris beating Jenny Strong and Graham Smith 7-5.

Once into the second round, the Kyneton players started to master the faster Castlemaine lawns and had three games to one victories in the remaining three rounds to finish with asolid eleven games to five margin and ahoop score of 95-83. Baker and Chivers were the best pair winning all their four games but all the other pairs managed at least one win. Some consolation for Castlemaine was that every pair had one win with Nigel Harland and Quirk proving the best combination with two wins.

The IGA Trophy was safely returned to Kyneton where it will remain on display ready for the return match in November

Tennis premiers

Macedon Ranges Tennis Association has just completed its Women'sWednesday Night finals series.

The finals matches were played across two sections with the following grand final outcomes:

Section 1–Woodend Group Therapy defeated Woodend Ace Ace Baby Section 2–Kyneton defeated New Gisborne.

The competition will return in October for the 2024-2025 season.

MRTA president Fiona Walker said the competition was now in its third year and had gone from strength to strength.

"There was areal need to provide night competition for female players at the clubs, and to play in aformat and atime that suits them."

The president advised potential players to get in touch with their local clubs to participate. The MRTA also runs Thursday Night Open, Saturday Juniors, and Open Saturday afternoon.

CASTLEMAINE

Town & District

GOLF results

Peter McCoombe'sfine 79-9-70 was sufficient to take out the monthly medal and A-grade award in afield of 49 on Saturday Orry Cross 83-12-71 was runner-up after acountback, Mark Brackley topped B-grade with 86-13-73 two strokes ahead of Megan Carroll, and Peter Stemp led in the C-graders with 99-28-71.

Daniel Pollard led the birdie count with four,and Stemp and Peter Stevens were the NTPs.

The morning nine holes wenttoGeorge Gray (23) with 17 points, from Ruth Neath (48) runner-up on 14.

Thursday stableford: An outstanding two over par including five birdies from John Jefferies (6) led to awinning 40 points, from Wayne Toohey (18) on 37.

GISBORNE

About 30 budding golfers attended Saturday's'Get into Golf'event to learn the basics of hitting, putting and chipping that little annoying ball.

The introductory course was enjoyed by all, with thanks going to volunteers Kym and Callum and co-captains Sharon and Nancy for coordinating this tremendous event.

Mother Nature provided complimentary conditions for the first round of the Winter Cup.

Tyson Anderson leads after thefirst round with 42 points; other winners were Robert Lockey (A-grade) with 36 and Alan Phillips (C) with 39.

Daosiri Lock seems tobe winning everything and holds the title of best player in the Lock household; this time she led in the ladies with 33points.

Wednesday'soverall winner was legendary 'bandit' Margret Barker with 40 points. Denise Dunn her best and took out A-grade with 37 points, including an eagle on the tenth.

KYNETON

Great weather and atop courseenticed 100 ladies to the club'sannual Hardwicks 4BBB stableford last week.

Thanks went to Hardwicks Meatworks and Hardwicks of Kyneton for their continued support, and also to new sponsor Northumberland Growers.

Heathcote'sCarol Sturt and Dot Trott were the tournament winners with 52stableford points, two ahead of Robyn MacRae and her Seymour partner Irene Davey Marian Orr and sister-in-law Deb Orr fro Phillip Island filled third place on48, after a seven-way countback.

Longest drive winners were A-grader Terri O'Callaghan (Trentham), Judy Quick (B-grade) and Carolyn Garvey (Trentham) in C, while Darlene Baker (Romsey), Trish Brierley (Trentham), Sophie Banon (Kilmore) and MacRae were the NTP winners.

Wednesday stableford: David Pitcher (14) 32 points from Ross Carbery (29) wih 31. Ladies –Avondale GC in NSW visitor Caroline Riley (23).

In the June medal event on Saturday Agraders James Elston 81-12-69 and David Moore 78-9-69 tied and will need to play-off for the medal next month.

Louis Thompson 83-13-70 topped B-grade on acountback from Jonathan Beachey 85-15-70, and Kash Karunasena 95-23-72 was two strokes clear of Peter Kewnick in C-grade.

Denise Murphy 93-17-76 led in the ladies, with NTPs going to Regan Williams (2), TimGoodwin, Robyn MacRae, Paul Law and Tien Ho.

LANCEFIELD

Welcome rain toughened the course for Saturday'sstableford, with Aaron carding 89-19-70 to land the monthly medal narrowly from James Whitford 81-10-71 and Jack Waldron 93-22-73.

The 14-hole Ambrose fun and cake day on Wednesday had all teams matched equally on handicaps.

Kaylene Cruise, Glenda Bentley and Bev Beaumont were victorious with anett 51, from Jenni Vennell, Carole Mee and Hazel Laycock 51.5,and Di Brennan, Sandra

Matthews and Cynthia Harbor 52. Cruise and Florence Meyer were NTPs.

Tuesday Legends: Stephen Morgan (33) 38 points, from Graham Mau (13) and Denis Davenport (6) both 35.

MOUNT MACEDON

Winter arrived for Saturday'sstableford and hadan instant impact with just one player able to break handicap.

Brian Collins (20) was the overall and C-grade winner with 37 points, B-grade's Hayden Phillips (12) and A-grader Richard Payne (5) both returned 35.

Windy conditions prevailed for the end of the month 4BBB stableford on Wednesday

It resulted in anew award being created as aresult of Terry Penney abandoning his group after finishing the 18th hole and heading to the car park only to be pursued by playing partner Jarod Plowman, who reminded him they had started on the fourth hole and still had three to play.Apparently his pie was calling!

Peter Sinclair (7) and Chris Martin (27) were the winners with 43 points, from Mike Gorman(18) and Peter Semmens (19) with 41.

ROMSEY

The club'sRelative Pairs Shield competition on Saturday was played in cold, windy conditions, with local golfers and some from Gisborne and Kilmore participating.

'Mark, lift, clean and replace' rules operated after recent rains, anditwas difficult to gain good distance.

Winners with 39 points were Mitch (6) and Kaye (27) Atlas with 39 points, with runners-up Sophie (20) and Jill (32) Banon with 35.

The daily pairs event went to Andrew Laing (19) and Steve Williams (16) with 39 points, from Anthony Lakey (23) and Shaun Scales (25) on 38, and Darlene Baker (18) and Sherif Abdel Sayed (30) with 37. Baker and Davey Kenney were NTPs.

President Anthony Lakey adjusted to extremely windy conditions on Wednesday to win the stroke event with 94-20-74 from Rob McDonald 90-15-75.

Darlene Baker 93-17-76 continued her winning streak to take out theMay Medal and Medal ofMedallists awards,ona countback from Jenney Hartley 99-23-76. Lakey was NTP and Steve Wilkins and Hugh Williams had the least putts (29).

TRENTHAM

Robert Penrose fired afine 81=14-67 to clinch the monthly medal and B-grade award as Saturday became colder and colder

Richard Coote took out A-grade with 746-68 and Jack Conway 92-22-70 was the best C-grader

Women'sstroke: Julie Hanson 90-20-70 from Carolyn Johnston 91-18-73.

Thursday 4BBB: Norm Hull (27) and Robin Wilson (0) 46 points.

WOODEND

Plenty of great scores in the monthly medal event on Saturday,but none better than worthy winner Troy Williams with a tremendous 68-4-64.

In B-grade Paul Whelanwon on acountback with 77-12-75, and David Anderson topped C-gradewith 93-28-65.

Midweek stableford: Fergus Nevins (13) carded 36 points to edge out Neville Bottams by apoint.

Combining well: Romsey’s Kaye and Mitch Atlas after their Relative Pairs Shield win.

Macedon Ranges Tennis Association grand final players.

Pictured left to right: Darryl Chivers, Graham Smith, Len Baker, Deborah Bosman, John Teed, Judy Aldred and Jenny Simons.

Braemar strong in equestrian

Braemar College’sequestrian team hosted the busy Interschool Showjumping Day at Riddells Creek Pony Club grounds on Saturday

Braemar’sprofile in equestrian was enhanced recently when the Macedon Ranges school finished up as Reserve Champion in Equestrian Victoria’sInterschools State Championships.

Nearly 500 competitors from 170 Victorian schools competed over several days at the Werribee Park Equestrian Centre.

Toorak College was overall champion with atallyof533.5 points, with Braemar in second place on 502.5.

Competitors ranged from prep through to year 12.

Braemar’sdedicated team of riders showcased exceptional skill and teamwork when competing across five disciplines.

The team included Audrey Bishop, Rosemary Sutherland, Lily Clear-Graham, Georgie Constable, Macy Doyle, Marly Wright, Tyler Gamble, Chloe Quay and Nina Ryssenbeek.

Sutherland, Constable, Doyle and Ryssenbeek qualified for the Nationals where they will represent Victoria later this year

To finish with such great results is seen as atestament to the hard work and dedication of the wonderful students, unwavering support from parents, and the invaluable contributions of the school’sponies and sponsors.

“The collective effort and spirit of our team has not only brought pride to our college, but has paved the way for several riders to achieve national recognition,” aspokesperson said.

Other district schools also had representatives competing at Werribee Park. Their results included:

Assumption College, Kilmore –7th with 464 points.

St Patrick’sKilmore –22nd with 308. Sacred Heart College, Kyneton –60th with 1395.

Castlemaine Secondary College –65th with 133.

Kyneton High School –122nd with 90.

St Brigid’sGisborne –133rd with 76. Gisborne Secondary College –141st with 62.

Woodend Primary School –155th with 29.

MAIN Game returns

Castlemaine’shighly anticipated and much-loved community event, the MAIN Game, returns to the Camp Reserve this Sunday

Can the Radio Galahs defend their MAIN Game title for the third consecutive year? It’sgoing to be ahotly contested game and you will not want to miss it.

Acommunity engagement and major fundraiser for community radio station, 94.9 MainFM, the day centres around a game of Aussie Rules footy as the Radio Galahs and the Rockatoos go head to head in afooty friendly

Now in its fifth year,expect to see some friendly rivalry between the two teams, who first faced offin2018.

Gates will open at midday,game starts at 1.30pm and the festivities will wrap up around 4.30pm.

Entry is $10 for MainFM subscribers, $15 general entry,Under 18 free

Tickets available online at mainfm.net

WhyWorry –noworries

Former Hong Kong galloper Why Worry (ex-Dragon’sLuck) made an auspicious debut for Macedon Ranges trainer Liam Howley with an impressive win at Caulfield on Saturday

It was atop training performance by Howley to have the fiveyear-old sprinter ready to win after not having raced for almost nine months.

Why Worry,a $9 chance, was ridden by Ethan Brown in a $130,000 BM78 race over 1200m, and led most of the way to win by half alength. Howley said it was agreat opportunity to obtain ahorse like this, thanking owner Mr Chan and Hong Kong trainer Douglas Whyte for supporting him.

Initially sold for $120,000 as atwo-year-old in Australia, Why

Worry won abarrier trial easily at Murray Bridge but was eventually transferred to Hong Kong interests.

Lightly raced in Hong Kong, Why Worry won three races but on October 18 last year bled from anostril and it was eventually decided to send him back to Australia.

Howley was the beneficiary,and he said after the race that the galloper,who has chalked up almost $750,000 in stakes, had thrived with the farm life and change of environment.

He said that on form, he looked like alisted type horse and he wa very grateful to have him in the stable (Howleyhas training bases atMacedon Lodge and Kyneton).

The Howley stable’swinning form continued at Geelongon May 24, when She Said, ridden by Winona Costin, finished well to win aMaiden Plate over 1760m at her third career start.

Easy win for Makalu at Tatura

Bill West

After being narrowly beaten at Kyneton on May 9, Makalu made amends with arunaway win at the recent Tatura meeting.

Macedon Ranges-based trainer Liam Howley was pleased with the run, and the victory was another milestone for the stable’sapprentice jockey Danica Munro.

It was the consistent four-year-old galloper’sthird win from 19 starts, with prize money now totalling $97,655.

Munro brought Makalu to the outside in the straight and he sprinted past the leaders to easily win the 1600m Trevor Miles Life Member B58 event, finishing 2.8 lengths ahead of Crasy Atom.

Makalu started as a$3.20 chance, and delighted his large group of owners.

It wasaspecial win for Munro, being her fifth race victory since joining the Howley stable. Her 4kg claiming allowance is now reduced to 3kgs, and Munro hopes shewill be able to get more ‘outside’ rides during the winter months.

The rider’sfirst win was aboard Bainbridge in the Elmore Cup, and she has alsorode the Howley-trained Station One to victory in the Woodend and Marong Cups. Growingupinnorthern New South Wales, Munro was keen on motorbikes, and studied with thoughts of eventually getting into the criminology field.

Circumstances changed and she had the chance to become an apprentice rider,and feels she has improved her skills through working for the Howley stable, and gaining race experience.

Ranger boys’ first win

Macedon Rangers Soccer Club’sU11 boys had their first win of the season on the weekend.

In the local derby against Gisborne, the boys’ hard work on the training pitch paid offwith results finally reflecting their efforts with both Henry and Hudson scoring abrace.

Rangers’ U10 boys were away to Satellite City for the early kickoff. Illness and injury have taken their toll with only enough fit players to take the field. The boys showed their customary spirit and ran hard all day with no interchange options.

The U12 boys needed acut lunch and acompass to head down to Point Cook. An early penalty awarded to the Rangers started the scoring with Ronan remaining calm under pressure to slot home from the spot.

The teamwork and organisation started to show through in the second half with Alexander finishing strongly to extend the lead to 0-2. Alategoal to Point Cook had some nervy moments in the final few minutes until Zach finished well to roll the ball into the bottom

corner to secure a1-3 victory

The U11girls hosted Caroline Springs and put in asolid performance with team structure afocus. The girls moved the ball well and the results starting to show with Madi scoring abrace and Carolann and Caitlain Malso getting on the scoresheet.

The U9 boys also faced offagainst Gisborne and played the match of the round thus far with the match fought through to the last second. Gisborne scored with the last kick of the game to equalise and break Rangers’ hearts.

The U9 girls hosted the late home kick offagainst Truganina and put in astrong performance with plenty of support from the earlier kickoffs.

The U13 girls travelled to face offagainst Kensington SC and solidified their early season form with acomfortable 2-4 victory.A tussle early on saw both teams go into the break at 0-0. Ranger girls were full of running in the second half to continue their unbeaten start to the season proper

Bill West

Why Worry ridden by Ethan Brown wins the GMH Fire and Safety Australia Handicap at Caulfield Racecourse

Photo: Scott Barbour/Racing Photos

Seniors

Seniors

ROMSEY 3.5 5.58.9 10.13 (73)

MACEDON1.2 3.3 7.3 8.5 (53)

GOALS:Romsey: MAdamson 2CPertzel 2S Wilson 2D Lockens CJedwab DPeaveyNBlair Macedon: JCooke 2 ZSmedley 2HGovanT Hildebrand NBridgland BCooke

BEST:Romsey: NBlair CPetroro CPertzel JWaldron D Peavey AMillane. Macedon: ZSmedley JBissell NBridgland BHoyne TSims JCooke WOODEND-HESKET 4.0 6.1 9.2 12.4 (76)

MELTON CENTRALS2.1 4.4 5.6 7.7 (49)

GOALS: Woodend-Hesket: JLiaw4 KBaker 2WWiseman 2 TNewman RFerguson JDuggan XTadd BEST: WoodendHesket: KBakerT LaverieJ LiawL Cuffe XTadd CBowen. DIGGERSREST1.0 4.1 6.7 11.11 (77) KYNETON2.2 4.3 7.4 10.5 (65)

GOALS:Kyneton: RPretty3 EForeman 2EDavie JSmith A NolteJPilbeam CFisher BEST: Kyneton: CFisher RPrettyJ Willmott JPilbeam DBennington JSmith

WALLAN 4.16.2 9.6 14.8 (92) LANCEFIELD 1.1 3.33.3 5.3 (33)

GOALS:Lancefield: JFalcone 2N Oconnell RBarber J O’Meara. BEST:Lancefield: MConlan LRistevski RBarber L Fellows JFalcone LGiles

3.26.8 9.10 12.15 (87)

2.4 2.53.7 4.9 (33) GOALS:Lancefield: LLyons 2C James ARichardt. BEST: Lancefield: LLyons JWoodburnAShepherdley DReynolds BStewart LMcTrusty

3.4 8.59.8 15.9 (99)

DetailsN/A. Macedon: Details N/A. BEST:Romsey: APaterson AFlavelM HarrisNHoy JSmiley BCecati. Macedon: CBrill JBulluss FBurnell SHarwood T Wilson JSchroder

JTadd 2RMiranda

SMitton. BEST:Kyneton: ANeylon B SliwczynskiMMcLeish CBowman SMitton ZRyan

BRyan3 IWilliamson 3CMunro

Kyneton: DRoberts GYow YehL Thompson SPyers M Wearne JJohnston

GOALS:Lancefield: WChoate NBudde ZSteelFO’Meara. BEST: Lancefield: KLech NWalker LMcTrustyN Budde SJowettTCavallo MACEDON -13.5 (83) ROMSEY -4.2 (26)

GOALS:Macedon: FLight4 TWilson2HElmawey2O Coppin 2CLarge SEmery AHorton. Romsey: CO’Brien 2 MMilburn JDixon. BEST:Macedon: AMcGregor RNolan L Webb JNolan FLightCPower Romsey: MForbes MMilburn CBeer DKenyonN Johnston KEvans

GISBORNE GIANTSVSRIDDELLDETAILSN/A Senior Womens

MACEDON 3.0 4.1 7.4 9.8 (62)

MELTON0.2 1.5 1.5 2.5 (17)

GOALS:Macedon: CNoonan 6EBell2R Watts BEST: Macedon: SLynch CNoonan EBell LSlaterACairneyC Deering

WOODEND-HESKET2.3 2.5 4.9 4.11 (35)

0.0 2.1 2.1 2.1 (13)

GOALS: Woodend-Hesket: HCassar 2KBau MHabib Lancefield: DetailsN/A. BEST: Woodend-Hesket: KBau M Habib HCassar MConnell MCrowther JSpring Lancefield: CHodgson MHeales SGreen EConsiglio CAger EObrien

4.1 7.3 9.6 (60) MOUNTALEXANDER

0.1 (1)

LRoberts 3SHarrison 3E Williams PT B Kinghorn. BEST: Kyneton: TAinslie BKinghornB HateleyR Williams JRolls SHarrison

(40)

GOALS:Sandhurst: FGreene 4BCurnow3HFree2 N

Stagg 2O PerezM Wilkinson ICarracher CMaxtedLHood L

Tardrew. Eaglehawk: JO’shannessy 3JNeaves2CHolmes

BEST: Sandhurst: CMaxtedH Free LTardrew LWrightZ

PallprattIRuff Eaglehawk: OMadden JO’shannessy C

McGlashan BEvans BMcgregor ZBulger

CASTLEMAINE4.3 5.5 10.10 16.11 (107)

(64)

KANGAROO

GOALS:Castlemaine: ZGreeves 3MHartley 2L Wilkinson

2BHenderson 2KHuntly JHood CMclennan TJackson J

Watson BKeogh HSheahan. Kangaroo Flat: HWhitty3 A

Grant3LEllings DSymons ERoberts BEST:Castlemaine:

JSutherland BHenderson ZMurley KHuntly DSemmens

TJackson. Kangaroo Flat: KSymons ERoberts LEllings J

Lefroy AGrant CLee

GISBORNE 5.2 8.6 13.10 16.14 (110)

STRATHFIELDSAYE2.0 7.2 9.2 13.4 (82)

GOALS:Gisborne: HLuxmoore3PMcKenna 3H Thomas

2ZDenahy2BBernacki2 RBourke DJohnstone MLordB Blake Strathfieldsaye: JSchischka 7J Reinheimer 2MHarvey

2P BlandfordSGeary BEST:Gisborne: JScanlonBBlake B

BernackiFLakey PMcKenna FSchipano. Strathfieldsaye: J SchischkaC Jones MHarveyLRatcliffeCSheahanPBlandford

GOLDENSQUARE8.8 13.11 21.15 27.18 (180)

MARYBOROUGH0.0 1.2 3.2 3.4 (22)

GOALS:Golden Square: JBurke 8J Stewart5OEaton 2J Threlfall 2LMonti 2J Sampson 2L Thomas LHumphrey T Strauch ZWescott BJames MEaton. Maryborough: CPerry RCastigliaTSanton. BEST:Golden Square: JBurkeTStrauch ZWescott JStewart JThrelfall BJames Maryborough: C PerryA Humphrey KLanfranchi TMyers ABrown SCollins

Seniors

GOALS:Trentham: JRegan 3JKeogh 2A Ferrier 2JSteen

BHinneberg. BEST: Trentham: JKeogh JCowan HKnight Z Gervasoni HHall BHinneberg

8.3 10.8 14.13 (97)

CREEK4.2 5.2 5.4 7.7 (49)

GOALS:Campbells Creek: JWootton 5JAllison BCarson. BEST: Campbells Creek: NO’Brien KGellatly JWootton J Martinovic HBassett JAllison MARYBOROUGH6.0

(111) NEWSTEAD 2.0 5.0 7.3 9.5 (59)

GOALS:Newstead: TJames5 ZAshbyJEntwisleD Keane BEST: Newstead: AMcConachy ARobinsTJames JGoulton AMurphy HMcGuire

MALDON 2.2 7.3 10.4 11.6 (72)

DUNOLLY 3.2 4.6 7.7 8.10 (58)

GOALS:Maldon: BMiller 2BLeonard-Shannon 2MGray2D Wust NPierce SGreene CBuchanan BCarter. BEST: Maldon: SGreeneT Bishop DKelly MGray ARobinson BBrown.

HARCOURT6.2 10.7 15.12 16.15

GOALS:Harcourt: JRodda 6C Anderson 3B Vaz2 BGurd 2T Walters KMcbride PChaplin. BEST:Harcourt: JHogg C Anderson KMcbride LAnderson BVaz CLing

(52)

GOALS:Trentham: CBrown TMatkovic JHoffman D Lendrec BEST:Trentham: CWhelan JCutlerRSutherland P Smith BWhiteBCurran

(7) GOALS:Harcourt: LBurns 7MPilcher 4JBarilari2A Mack 2P Polychronopoulos2AJones 2T Kenworthy 2T Barnett BEST: Harcourt: AJensen MMaerzL Burns AJones NWest CDickman

(100)

(39)

CREEK

GOALS:Campbells Creek: PTaylor-Pooter 2JMoore E Hewett TStrauch BEST:Campbells Creek: NSpeteri M Kerney Hkleehammer EHewett ETuitupou CDale MALDON4.1

(104)

1.1 1.2 3.2 3.3 (21)

GOALS:Maldon: DConnell 4BNeve3 SBurchell3DRoss

4.39.5 13.6 (84)

2.2 2.4 3.6 6.7 (43) GOALS:Newstead: LChapman 2CElderfield 2BRinaldi KTanner BEST: Newstead: RWhiteJCharlton ZTanner C Chapman BMcDougall KTanner

Reserves

GISBORNE1.2 4.6 6.8 7.9 (51)

STRATHFIELDSAYE 0.3 0.72.9 3.11 (29)

GOALS:Gisborne: BDickins 2A Nichols 2BNalderLNalder

HDoricic BEST:Gisborne: HDoricic TCollings JMurphyL Thiner MBarake LGrech.

CASTLEMAINE 1.3 1.5 3.9 5.9 (39)

KANGAROO FLAT 1.13.4 4.6 5.8 (38)

GOALS:Castlemaine: DHickey 2JChester 2CKuhle BEST: Castlemaine: WMoran EMaltbyD Gray CMcLennan J Chester KFleeton.

SANDHURST

GOLDEN SQUARE DMARYBOROUGH(FORFEIT) Under 18s

(10)

GISBORNE5.2 8.4 13.8 18.10 (118)

STRATHFIELDSAYE 1.1 1.21.2 1.3 (9)

GOALS:Gisborne: JRutten 7M Trakosas 3HBryant2L Evans HOlive COzanne JZerafaC Johns WWatson. BEST: Gisborne: JRutten JFloreaniJBrewerLEvans COzanne B Dickins

KANGAROO FLAT

Magpies claim the Indigenous Round Shield

(56)

(42)

GOALS:Castlemaine: TWhaley 2K Martin 2ARixon S Sieber-Hogg BEST: Castlemaine: JNuttall MMatheson M McKnightPLeathem ARixon AStaples

The Castlemaine Magpie sides made the trek north to Dower Park to tackle Kangaroo Flat on Saturday as part of the Bendigo Football Netball League'sRound 7Indigenous Round fixture.

The Castlemaine Seniors proudly took to the ground in their Indigenous Round guernseys fresh from the two weeks' rest and ready to fire.

They did just that opening their account with afour-goalfirst term effort, while keeping the Roos to one solitary point, to hold a 26-point advantage at quarter-time.

Flat bounced back in the second term but were never able to make up for lost ground and Castlemaine ultimately went on to claim the shield with a43-point win.

Maldon: BDoyle 4SAherne.

B Doyle CBuchanan BRoberts IMason RBurchellAPeaslee

Zachary Greeves was outstanding kicking three, and coach Michael Hartley once again led from the front kicking two.

GOALS: Harcourt: KSimmons BEST:Harcourt: JArcher K Simmons DMcLachlanPKelly AMcLoughlan HBurns

Under 14.5s

CAMPBELLS CREEK 0.0 0.0 1.1 3.2 (20)

GOALS: Campbells Creek: LMountford3 BEST: CampbellsCreek: MAnderson LMountfordN Jones IPratt TTaylorX Wolski

(57)

(16)

GOALS: Trentham: AHenderson. BEST:Trentham: H ThompsonG FoxARyrie WHopper LstringerGPowney

NAVARRE0.1 3.2 5.3 7.5 (47)

HARCOURT 2.1

(28)

GOALS: Harcourt: JNoulton 2L Parsons PKelly BEST: Harcourt: KWaddington JArcher HBirdL Parsons CPannett PKelly

MALDON 5.2 10.6 14.9 18.11 (119)

DUNOLLY1.0

(19)

GOALS: Maldon: FWalls 6JSmith 3A Turner 3W Govier 2O MerloZ Turner BEST:Maldon: JSmith ATurner LPascoe E Egleton FWalls SGross

(261)

Lions roar to 77-point win

Top-of-the-table Harcourt played host to Navarre at the den in round eight action in the Maryborough Castlemaine Football Netball League on Saturday

The Lions dominated from the first bounce kicking six goals to the Grasshoppers' one for the quarter to lead by 32 points at the first change.

Harcourt went onwith the job in the second term kicking another four to Navarre's two and had opened up a48-point advantage by half-time.

The Lions continued with the demolition in the second half eventually running out winners by77points.

CARISBROOK

TRENTHAM0.0

(0)

(47)

(0)

GOALS: Trentham: Details N/A. BEST:Trentham: HWhite DThompson RRyanD WhiteM Thompson SBeattie

NAVARRE2.6 4.8 7.10 8.13 (61)

HARCOURT 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 (0)

GOALS: Harcourt: Details N/A. BEST:Harcourt: LDunlop T Waddington CDavis CKingNLeech FDavis

NEWSTEAD 2.3 6.68.9 9.13 (67)

MARYBOROUGH0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 (0)

GOALS:Newstead: PBlake 2B Bright2 WGarsed XBritt H Blake DDyerZ Dyer BEST:Newstead: WGarsed BBrightX BrittHBlake PBlake EEbery

AVOCA7.0 14.2 14.3 17.6 (108)

CAMPBELLS CREEK0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 (1)

GOALS:Campbells Creek: Details N/A. BEST:Campbells Creek: BPagano BReidie PGolles LMorgan AGoulding M McMahon

DUNOLLY2.2 3.3 5.6 5.6 (36)

MALDON 0.0 0.00.0 0.0(0)

GOALS:Maldon: DetailsN/A. BEST:Maldon: DRobertson BWebbNBroom OMerlo LMullerJMuller

CARISBROOK 6.39.6

Jed Rodda was superb kicking six. In other matches,Maldon had a14-point win over Dunolly,Newstead lost to Maryborough Giants by 52 points, Avocas defeated avaliant Campbells Creek by 48 points, Natte Beliba caused an upset against Trentham to the tune of 19 points.

AholidayinRDFNL

Footballers and netballers in the Riddell League have aholiday this weekend (King'sBirthday).

Round 9takes place on Saturday,June 15, with matches as follows: Diggers Rest vRomsey Wallan vKyneton. Riddell vLancefield. Macedon vMelton Centrals. Woodend-Hesket has abye

BFNL games

An improving Castlemaine play the in-form Gisborne at Camp Reserve this Saturday It is the eighth round of Bendigo Football Netball League matches. Other games are: Eaglehawk vMaryborough. Golden Square vSouth Bendigo. Strathfieldsaye vSandhurst.

KalHuntly gets ahandball away as his opponents close in.

Photo: Peter Banko

Five in arow

Gisborne senior footballers climbed into second place on he Bendigo League ladder after a28-point victory over Strathfieldsaye on Saturday

The Storm had been unbeaten this season, but the Bulldogs led throughout at Gardiner Reserve and now loom as the biggest challenge to Sandhurst. for this season’spremiership.

Gisborne supporters went home happy in the knowledge their side is agenuine premiership prospect with astrong spread of quality players. Strathfieldsaye forward James Schichka stole some of the limelight from Gisborne as his seven goals kept the visitors within touch.

The ‘Dogs had nine individual goal scorers, with Harry Luxmoore and Pat McKenna leading the way with three apiece.

Jack Scanlon, ruckman Braidon Blake, Brad Bernacki, Flynn Lakey,McKenna and Frank Schipano were listed as the side’sbest.

There was 10 points the difference at half time, and Gisborne virtually sewed up the outcome with five goals to two in the third term.

The ‘Dogs head north to Camp Reserve in Castlemaine this Saturday, confident of making it six in arow Gisborne Reserves won their fourth match with a7.8 to 3.11margin.

In the Under 18s Gisborne absolutely blitzed the bottom side, kicking 18.10 to 1.3.

Young full forward Jack Rutten led the way with seven majors.

Kelly’s back

Gisborne Cricket Club continues to strengthen its A-grade McIntyre Cup team fornextseason.

Last week the premiership winning Dragons re-signed aggressive opening batter,Warren Kelly.

Last season Kellycompiled 602 runs, including twoswift centuries, at an averageofjust over 50 In the off-season Kellyhas also been running the club’smonthly junior development program.

Kyneton, Macedon and Woodend-Hesket were the winners in last weekend’sround of Riddell League women’sfootball.

After amassive day at Kyneton Showgrounds raising funds for Fight MND, the Kyneton team played Mt Alexander Falcons, with both sides having significant ‘outs’.

The Tigers kicked three goals straight early and repelled opposition forward thrusts.

Bridie Kinghorn was effective in the ruck and also kicked a goal, and ball magnet Suzie Harrison finished with three as the Tigers won by 59 points.

The usual suspects in Ainslie, Hateley and Savoia all starred, and Kyneton now looks forward to playing Macedon in two

Bill West

“It’sbeen super the best thing that’sever happened to the club.”

This is how Kyneton Football Netball Club president Hayden Evans described the Tigers’ move from the Bendigo League to the Riddell League this season.

In abroad-ranging interview with football broadcasters minutes before the Kyneton versus Diggers Rest senior football match at the Showgrounds on Saturday,Evans reflected on the club’sdecision to join the Riddell League this season, and how it had worked out so far

The president made it clear what some had initially seen as acontentious move, which ruffled afew feathers, had undoubtedly been the correct one.

He pointed out that membership was up, as was sponsorship and revenue so far this season.

The president emphasised the Kyneton club’scommittee had been strong, and investigated all the implications over aperiod of time.

He said the club had made aconscious decision to wind back to community football, rather than looking to field a super team.

“We’re going to have Kyneton kids playing football,” he said, explaining how the Central Victorian Commission had

Ranges’ Raangges s women dominate doomiinna

ate

weeks’ time. Jessie Boylan, Trish Ross-Harris and Rachael Winterton were prominent for the Falcons.

After an even first half Macedon took control to defeat Melton 9.8 to 2.5. Charlotte Noonan kicked six goals to extend her lead in the goalkicking, and Eliza Bell managed two Scarlett Lynch, Noonan, Bell and Lulu Slater were best for the Cats.

In the remaining match, Woodend-Hesket overcame Lancefield in the second half to win 4.11to2.1

Kat Bau, Mariam Habib and HarmonyCassar were the Hawks’ best, while Chloe Hodgson, Molly Heales and Sienna Green did well for the Tigers.

Move to RDFNL ‘best thing ever’

no plans for the future in the BFNL at ameeting last year

“The points system in country football is so broken it can’t be fixed,” he declared, drawing attention to the salary cap situation.

Kyneton is regularly fielding asenior side with points well below the limit level for each senior match.

Evans pointed to Kyneton’spopulation, the leakage of players to some nearby RDFNL clubs, and the struggle the club had in competing against powerful sides from Bendigo; every few years Kyneton was looking at its future in the BFNL being sustainable.

“At the end of the day we couldn’t be half pregnant,” Evans said (in 2022 the Tigers had some teams in the Bendigo league and others in Riddell).

“You have to have astrong committee,” he said, when asked how the move had been achieved.

The president said Kyneton was learning more from looking at how strong Riddell League clubs, such as Diggers Rest and Riddell, operated, and certainly planning for the future.

He explained how there had been anoticeable difference in how football was played in the Bendigo and Riddell leagues.

Kyneton had not been helped by along injury list; the U19.5s are currently weakened by injury and illness as

well.

“Wejusthope for agood, close game,” Evans said as the senior match was about to begin. And that certainly did occur,with atenacious Kyneton leading for most of the match before the reigning premiers finished strongly to win by 12 points.

MARYBOROUGH MAYGO

Last week it was reported the struggling Maryborough FNC was unlikely to bepart of the Bendigo League next season; it regularly gets thrashed in the seniors and forfeits in the Reserves, having recently appealed for supporters and members to tryand find somemore players for this season.

Maryborough won Bendigo League football premierships in 1974 and 1999.

It is surrounded by smaller town clubs that compete in the Maryborough Castlemaine District Football Netball League.

BFNL chair Carol McKinstry said Bendigo did not want to be reduced to an eight-team competition.

“Ideally,for us we’ll have a10-team league. It’swhat we want and it’swhat our clubs want as well.”

It is believed Echuca and Rochester are being looked at as potential additions –bothwere in the Bendigo League many years ago.

Kyneton’s Bridie Kinghorn was among the Tigers’ best players Photo: Sophie McLeod

Strong effort by Tigers

Bill West

Kyneton senior footballers turned in a strong performance on Saturday, pressing reigning premiers Diggers Rest all the way at the Showgrounds.

The large crowd was enthralled by the close contest, with the Tigers leading at every change, to be overhauled by afive-goal last quarter surge by the visitors.

Coming off astrongwin against Melton Centrals, Kyneton showed enough to think they may be able to earn afinals berth.

While Riddell, Diggers Rest, Romsey and Wallan appear to be 'certs' for finals action, the final five format means the Tigers have agreat chance of filling this spot if Saturday's form is any guide.

Key defender Harrison Huntley was not able to be selected, while Diggers Rest made five changes to the side that toppled previously unbeaten Riddell in atough encounter the previous Saturday.

"We are looking forward to matching up with the league's best and see how we go," Kyneton coach Ethan Foreman stated in the lead-up to the clash with Diggers Rest. Foreman and his co-selectors would have found plenty to be pleased about, and Diggers Rest was relieved to escape with the four points in amatchthat hung in the balance for along time.

Young Tiger dynamo Caleb Fisher is in rare form, being Player of the Round the previous weekend.

He again headed the Tigers' 'best' list, followed by Ryan Pretty (three goals), Josh Wilmott, Jack Pilbeam, Dom Bennington and Josh Smith.

Diggers Rest is arenowned big occasion team, with plenty of depth and versatility, and experienced coach Jamie Lobb stated his side "didn't want to leave anything in the tank" leading to the bye this weekend.

Kyneton now faces aformidable test in the next round at Wallan on June 15.

In the Reserves, Diggers Rest won 5.9 to 1.7, and the U19.5s saw a9.14 to 7.5 outcome in favour of the visitors.

In the lone tribunal case last week, Diggers Rest veteran Jeff Heritage received aone-match holiday for "engaging in a melee" against Riddell.

ROMSEY ALL THE WAY

Playing at home, Romsey consolidated third spot by accounting for Macedon by 20 points after opening up ahandy lead in the first quarter.

This was rated a50/50 match by Macedon coach Al Meldrum, and the sluggish start did not help his side, which worked hard but found the Redbacks too strong.

Romsey coach Justin Sherman says his side has found the ability to win tight matches it would have lost last season, and players have learnt they have leadership

roles to play from ateamperspective.

Captain Nathan Blair, Chris Petroro, Corey Pertzel and ruckman Justin Waldron were prominent, while the Cats were well served by Zac Smedley, Johnathon Bissell, Nathan Bridgland and Brodie Hoyne.

The final scoreline was 10.13 (73) to 8.5 (53).

Romsey Reserves had another big win, and Macedon U19.5s consolidated second spot on the ladder with amarginof76 points.

Wins have been scarce for 2023

runners-up Woodend-Hesket, but the Hawks managed to topple Melton Centrals by 27 points for their second victory of the season.

Kyle Baker continued his good recent form, while Trent Laverie's return and Joachim Iiaw's four goals were positive for the Hawks who will be looking to take some scalps in the second half of the season.

After showing plenty of resistance in the first half against Wallan, Lancefield could not sustain the pressure with the Magpies eventually winning by 59 points.

Still close in netball

Nearing thehalfwaymark of theRiddell League netball season, thereare plenty of A-gradesides that still have their sightsset on afinals berth.

In the eighth round on Saturday, there wasascoring spree between Romseyand Macedon, with the Cats finishing up with a59-56 advantageto move into fifth place.

Third-placed Woodend-Hesket stopped the run of Melton Centrals, Kyneton stayed in contention with a victory over giant-killer DiggersRest, andtop side Wallan kept Lancefield at bay

Scores were: Macedon59(Eliza Petherick 41) dRomsey 59(Hope Hamilton46); Kyneton 56(Claire Oakley 37, Molly McGrath15) dDiggers Rest 38; Woodend-Hesket 52 (Charlee Duff-Tytler 30,Abby Gilmore14) d MeltonCentrals 41, Wallan 54 dLancefield 39.

Ladder:Wallan 28 points, Riddell 22, Woodend-Hesket 20, Macedon20, Melton Centrals 16, Kyneton16, Romsey 14, Diggers Rest 12, Lancefield 12.

B-grade: Romsey 56 (Mez Thompson 45) dMacedon 51 (C.Brinkhuis 51); Diggers Rest 64 dKyneton 26, Woodend-Hesket 58 (M. Fletcher 32, Z. Phillips 15) dMelon Centrals 33, Lancefield 54 (Tarnee Hammond 39) d Wallan 40.

C-grade: Macedon 55 dRomsey 12, Diggers Rest 40 dKyneton 21,Woodend-Hesket 53 dMelton Centrals 30, Wallan 27 dLancefield20.

D-grade: Gisborne Giants 20 dDiggers Rest17.

19&Under: Romsey 39 dMacedon 26, Kyneton 28 dDiggers Rest 27, MeltonCentrals 38 dWoodend-Hesket 26, Wallan 46 dLancefield 13.

BFNL netball

Gisborne and Castlemaine netball teams had acontrast in fortunes in the Bendigo League on Saturday While Gisborne outplayed Strathfieldsaye in all their matches at Gardiner Reserve, Castlemaine'sonly victory came in the Under 17s against Kangaroo Flat. Match scores were:

A-grade: Gisborne 40 dStrathfieldsaye 29, Kangaroo Flat 86 dCastlemaine 33.

A-reserve: Gisborne 53 dStrathfieldsaye 38, Kangaroo Flat 86 dCastlemaine 33.

B-grade: Gisborne 68 dStrathfieldsaye 38, Kangaroo Flat 60 dCastlemaine 17. B-reserve: Gisborne 55 dStrathfieldsaye 34, Kangaroo Flat 56 dCastlemaine 38. Under 17s: Castlemaine 57 dKangaroo Flat 25, Gisborne abye

Caleb fisher is in hot form at the moment.

A 4 B 2 C 2 F 619m2

View Saturday 8th June 10:45am-11:15am

ForSale $990,000 -$1,020,000 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 3 B 1 C 2 F 2336m2

View Inspect by Appointment Contact Agent

ForSale $580,000 -$620,000 Web rh.com.au/kyneton

57 OldFordRoad, Redesdale

COME &BREATHE THE COUNTRYAIR

•Lovelylandscaped 2336m2 allotment on the banks of the Campaspe river. Recently renovated and perfectly presented. Three generous bedrooms & awellappointed kitchen. Acharming country-side retreat with afull-length front verandah. ClosetoLakeEppaloch, Heathcote, Kyneton and surrounds.

Jennifer Pearce 0427 422508 jennifer.pearce@kyneton.rh.com.au

View Inspect by Appointment Contact Agent

ForSale $790,000 -$850,000 Web 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. A 4 B 2 C 2 F 560m2

Jennifer Pearce 0427 422508 jennifer.pearce@kyneton.rh.com.au

Expressions of Interest Web rh.com.au/kyneton

David Oliver 0403023 706 david.oliver@gisborne.rh.com.au

Inspect&Explore

41 HamiltonStreet, Gisborne

PRIME TOWNSHIP LOCATION!

•Brilliant central position.

•TRZ 3Significant Municipal Road

•Approved Plans and Permit foraChildcare facility.

•Heritage building to be retained with approved plans.

•Zoning CZ1-Commercial Zone 1. Ideal zoning foryour non childcareproject.

•54.9km to Melbourne CBD Post Office.