Midland Express Tuesday March 5 2024

Northern Books in Castlemaine is hosting a visit by beloved Australian musician Kate Ceberano at the Phee Broadway Theatre next week

Ceberano has celebrated one of the most enduring and inspirational careers in Australian music with the release of her 30th album in 2023

The album, My Life is a Symphony, a collaboration with Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, went straight to the top of the charts

Continued page 5

Global gloryfor bluestone

Malmsbury bluestone has become the first Australian stone recognised as a Global Heritage Stone Resource.

The rare designation is reserved for stones with documented widespread use in human culture for more than 50 years.

To be considered, stones must have been used in several continents for significant, private, public and industrial projects, and have recognised cultural significance.

The feat has been 10 years in the making for historian, Dr Susan Walter,who made it her mission to uncover the stone's significance.

"It'sa major achievement for alittle local town," Dr Walter said.

The now Malmbury Historical Society president moved to Malmsbury in 2002 and with abackground in science and history was fascinated to hear local refer-

ences to the bluestone.

"People told me that Malmsbury bluestone was famous, but they couldn't explain how," she told the Express Dr Walter decided she would uncover its past herself with it forming the subject of her history PHD thesis. Her discoveries took her much further than anticipated. She learned Malmsbury bluestone had been used in Victoria, Tasmania, South

Australia, Western Australia and New South Wales. She also discovered various uses overseas including New Zealand and Calcutta, India.

Dr Walter said the stone defines alot of the Macedon Ranges. The Malmsbury viaduct is an important early example of its use and is what may have triggered interest in the stone.

Continued page 5

Castlemaine's community radio station, MainFM 94.9, will hosting a'MainFM International Women’s Day Radio Picnic' this Friday and will be broadcasting live all day from outside the historic Market Building Mostyn Street, Castlemaine.

Anchored by astellar cast of MainFM’s female presenters, the six-hour broadcast will be celebrating the contribution and achievements of women –from near and afar with interviews, discussions, live performances, music and song.

MainFM will also be launching the exciting new radio series, Extraordinary/Ordinary: Commemorating and celebrating women in Central Victoria, created by Lisa D’Onofrio and scheduled to air on MainFM on Fridays during Femme Fortissimo throughout March and April. The series aims to 'elevate' women's voices and stories and will feature short interviews with awide range of diverse women about local women who have made an impact on them, and longer interviews with local women writers, researchers, students, historians and curators.

Friday's IWD celebration will include tea and coffee, snacks and cake available for everyone to enjoy. The last hour of the broadcast will be aYouth Takeover with young presenters, supported by Castlemaine FREEZA who will be running a pop-up MONDO lounge for young people from 3.30pm.

MainFM station manager Steph Riddel said we were lucky to be living in acountry that recognised the importance of striving for gender equality, but past injustices couldn't be forgotten and we needed to push for ongoing progress, and to ensure women’s rights were not eroded in the future.

‘Woman are amazing, so strong and capable, and contribute and sacrifice so much to the betterment of our society as a

whole,” she said.

“Our wish for this broadcast is to celebrate the contribution and achievement of women in ajoyous and uplifting way, we think it’s going to be alot of fun,” Steph said.

MainFM’s Outside Broadcast

Extraordinary/Ordinary podcast creator Lisa D’Onofrio, Femme Fortissimo radio host Bridget Haylock, fellow MainFM presenter

Globalgloryfor bluestone

From page 1.

She said the durability and workability of the stone made it suitable for awide range of purposes, from drains, kerbs, pavements, lintels and steps, to base courses of multi-storey buildings and ornate bank doorways.

St Patricks Cathedral and St Pauls Cathedral in Melbourne are just some examples of its use.

Dr Walter completed her PHD in 2019 and nominated the stone for Global Heritage Stone Resource status.

The International Union of Geological Sciences accepted the Malmsbury bluestone recommendation of their Heritage Stones Sub-commission. It was approved in February and now joins nearly 50stones world-wide with this recognition.

The IUGS has requested asample of the stone for the Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources in Berlin, Germany

Dr Walter has been able to source a sample with the help of an owner of one of the former bluestone quarries and Kyneton stonemason Huntly Barton.

The sample will be added to the museum's150-year-old collection of natural building stones.

While many Malmsbury bluestone sites have been demolished over time, those that remain are important reminders of the past.

Dr Walter hopes the stone'sworld recognition will be acatalyst for new historical studies, improved documentation ofits use and heritage protection.

Her research has uncovered more than 150 uses of the stone across the Macedon Ranges.

Entries vary from basic farmhouses to other uses like railway bridges, station platforms, hotels andchurches.

Some examples have protection, some do not, but Dr Walter said many shire

recognise the bluestone at all.

"The basic level of heritage protection, which protects some of the surviving structures, doesn't even acknowledge the bluestone'spresence," she said.

"Our stone is something we can all be proud ofand deserves both preservation and celebration."

Dr Walter has shared her findings with Macedon Ranges Shire Council.

Malmsbury Historical Society is celebrating Malmsbury bluestone's recognition in the Global Heritage Stone Resource list with planned history tours in April.

Ceberano in conversation

From page 1.

Over four decades, she’s notched up an incredible 10 top 10 albums, 11 platinum and eight gold status, 15 top 40 singles, three Countdown awards, four ARIA awards and more than 6000 live performances.

Ceberano's beautifully illustrated memoir, Unsung: ACompendium of Creativity,came about during atime of stillness brought on by the covid pandemic. It features her inspirational song lyrics, stories, paintings and embroidery, and celebrates four decades of songwriting and recording on the release of her 30th album.

She will be appearing in conversation with the one and only Brian Nankervis, co-host of the ABC's The Friday Revue and co-host of SBS music quiz show RockWiz.

Northern Books' Kristin Gill as along-time Ceberano fan and said it was athrill to have legendary Australian singer, songwriter and artist in Castlemaine for an evening of conversation, storytelling and hopefully asong!

"Kate said we had her at Brian Nankervis! So Ithink we areinfor awhole lotoffun," Kristin said.

Ceberano said she was looking forward to the visit.

"I look forward to chatting about life, music and my book Unsung with none other than Brian Nankervis, the legendary RockWiz co-host and ABC radio broadcaster....and allround hilarious raconteur!"

The event will run from 7pm-9pm on Wednesday March 13. Tickets are $30 or $79.50 including acopyofthe book.

To book your ticket for this special event visit www.northernbooks.com.au/kateceberano

Dr Susan Walter is pictured at the Malmsbury viaduct with the sample of stone destined for Germany. documented cases didn't

The tours will bea chance for people to learn more about the history and uses of the famous bluestone.

Malmsburyplan open to feedback

Community feedback has opened on aplanning scheme amendment that proposes to rezone land in Malmsbury and facilitate development of anew residential subdivision.

Separate to the recently advertised Amendment C157macr for Malmsbury,but following asimilar process, Amendment C154macr is acombined planning scheme amendment and planning permit application for 1Wills Street on the eastern edge of the Malmsbury township.

The site is currently zoned for agricultural use, however, its shape, size and proximity to existing residential development limit its use for this purpose.

The area surrounding the site is characterised by single-story residential buildings of modest site coverage, with generous front setbacks and well-established gardens.

The proposed amendment will result in land being rezoned from agricultural use to residential, allowing for the development of aresidential subdivision consisting of nine lots with minimum lot sizes of 2,000 square metres.

Council’sdirector of planning and environment, Rebecca Stockfeld, said the rezoning would help facilitate residential growth in line with the Macedon Ranges Planning Scheme.

“The Planning Scheme seeks to contain development within the Malmsbury township boundary and facilitate development of the periphery of the town which features larger lots, significant landscaping and generous setbacks,” she said.

“Planning controls in the new zoning will ensure any development reflects the preferred characteristics of Malmsbury by designating minimum lot sizes, maximum building heights and ensuring front setbacks can accommodate the establishment of canopy trees.”

Community members can view the proposed amendment and supporting documents on the Your Say section of MRSC’swebsite, or at council’sKyneton Administration Centre.

The closing date for submissions is Monday,April 1. Council will consider all submissions received and appoint an independent planning panel if necessary,with a final decision to be made by the Minister for Planning.

Mentored intensives

Are you an early career musician, composer or sound creator looking to explore your practice and interested in improvisation, experimentation and collaboration?

Australian Art Orchestra is working with local live arts company,Punctum Inc, offering two mentored intensive weekends with amazing musician mentors.

Thefirst is coming up March 16 and17. AAO and Punctum has aspecial offer for local musicians and is extending the closing date for registrations to 5pm Friday March 8.

It’sarare opportunity for practice, pathways, and connections. Places are limited. Participation is free.

With the generous venue support of Bendigo Venues and Events and funding from the Victorian Government through Creative Victoria. Register your interest on Punctum’swebsite; punctum.com.au/ programs/mentoredintensives-2024

to skate.

Melbourne skate performer and instructor Belle Hadiwidjaja is offering classes for all abilities as well as games, practice time and aperformance from the coaches.

The skate sessions will take place at the Kyneton Showgrounds Pavilion on Sunday, March 17, from 10am to 11.30am.

Cost is $25 per skater including skate hire. Bookings required.

For details, or to make abooking, visit the website: princessonskates.com.au/skate-lessons/family

Aviva Endean, clarinettist and composer living on Dja Dja Wurrung country, will be one of the incredible mentors who will lead the mentored intensives at The Engine Room in Bendigo.

Australia’sbiggest open studios event, Arts Open, isset to launch this Labour Day long weekend, as artists across central Victoria open their studios for visitors to experience the artistic vision our region is famed for

Beginning this weekend and continuing into the following weekend, March 16-17, this year’sArts Open features more than 120 artists and 80-plus studios.

Artist Zoe Amor,one of the event’s coordinators, said there was already a buzz across the region, as artists prepared their studios to welcome those seeking a one-of-a-kind experience.

“People so look forward to this unique, in-person exchange of ideas, processes and techniques,” she explained.

“It’salso achance for us, as artists, to build on the way we make, talk about and present our work.”

The place to begin your Arts Open adventure will be Castlemaine’shistoric Market Building. Located in the heart of town at 44 Mostyn Street, it’shome to Mount Alexander Shire’sVisitor Information Centre and the Boorp Boorp Boondyil

(passing knowledge to our children) exhibition. During Arts Open the building will also host the Open Studios Group Exhibition, including painting, printmaking, ceramics, photography,drawing and sculpture.

You’ll also be able to pick up acopy of the Arts Open pull-out if you missed out on the feature in our February 20 edition of the Express

Zoe and her fellow Group Exhibition curator,Denise Martin, hope visitors will take the chance to explore the remarkable diversity of local art practice at the Market Building, before heading out to see the studios the pieces were created in.

“As well as being an extraordinary event where people can connect directly with artists, the interactions that occur throughout the wider community during Arts Open are so important for makers and local businesses. We’re looking forward to welcoming everyone,” Zoe said.

Maps of studio locations, details of events and workshops are available at www.artsopen.com.au

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Artist Zoe Amor is looking forward to welcoming visitors behind her studio door as part of Arts Open 2024. Photo: Clare River.

8-Tuesday,

Green light for childcare centre

Achildcare centre has been approved at asite of heritage interest in Gisborne following an applicant appeal to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

Development at the former Middy'ssite, 41 Hamilton Street, will include aweekday 6am-7pm childcare centre for 98 children and partial demolition of an existing building.

The development required 21 car parking spaces but the proposal has been approved with just 12 on-site car parks.

The application progressed to VCATfollowing Macedon Ranges Shire Council'sfailure to determine apermit in the appropriate timeframe.

MRSC submitted to VCATitwould have refused the application on grounds of noise management, land capability,heritage conservation, amenity and car parking issues.

The council decision was contrary to the council officer’srecommendation to support the proposal subject to conditions.

Plans included partial demolition of the existing single-storey heritage building on site with some alterations and additions.

In dispute was whether the applicant would require aconservation management plan for the works, asMRSC sought, however it was determined it was not necessary

Relying on advice from the council'sheritage advisor and heritage evidence from the applicant, VCATdetermined the the proposal to be an acceptable heritage response.

"The existing building is of heritage significance, however,the extent of demolition of heritage fabric is limited," The VCATmember said.

Instead, aschedule of conservation works will be needed as part of permit conditions to ensure restoration of the retained heritage building is acceptably managed.

The VCATmember also found the reduction in car parking spaces acceptable, relying on advice that appropriate street parking was available. Council'splanning officers had reached the same conclusion.

Another key consideration was impacts to amenity.The council was concerned the proposal would result in unacceptable noise impacts on residential uses located to the south and east.

The VCATmember was not convinced the proposal would have an unacceptable impact on amenity,pointing to several factors including the addition of a2.1 metre high acoustic fence along the southern boundary,buffer of the external outbuilding and acceptable hours of operation.

The permit was approved with several conditions.

Kyneton residents had the chance to enjoy a'coffee with acop' outside Monsieur Pierre last week. It was an opportunity for people to meet the members and raise any concerns in arelaxed environment. Members plan to schedule another coffee with acop catch up.

Man dies at Lake Eppalock

A25-year-old Lancefield man has drowned at Lake Eppalock in Kimbolton.

The man and awoman went swimming with their two dogsinthe lake, just offRyans Road, about 7.45pm Wednesday night.

It’sunderstood the man got into difficulty and disappeared under water.The woman and two dogs returned toshore and raised the alarm.

Police carried out an extensive search last night before resuming the search early Thursday morning.

Search and rescue divers recovered his body Friday morning.

The deathis not being treated as suspicious. Areport will be prepared for the coroner

Pictured from left are First Constable Joel Oorloff, local resident Rachael McIntyre, FirstConstable Zac Henderson and Senior Sergeant Frank Docherty

Drivers learnlesson

Twomale drivers who made the mistake of having a'traveller'while driving were intercepted by aBooze Bus in Kyneton last Thursday afternoon.

Leading Senior Constable Brett Magrath of the Macedon Ranges Highway Patrol said the two drivers learned avaluable lesson.

"They were over the limit on the testing line but after an anxious wait and testing in the bus, were under," LSC Magrath said.

"Lesson learnt. They committed the offence of 'consuming an intoxicating liquor while driving’."

LSC Magrath said 569 drivers were tested on the day and no other offending was detected.

He said the first 'traveller'driver had driven from Melbourne with two dogs in his car

"As he was escorted into the bus, his vehicle was moved offthe line by apolice officer," LSC Magrath said.

"They parked it on the other side under atree out the front of Cobaw

"As the police officer climbed out of the vehicle the driver’sdog got away.Itwas busting (to relieve itself) and would not return to the police officer’scall."

LSC Magrath said the dog watered several trees and after about five minutes returned to the vehicle and jumped back in.

Fundsrunning dry?

Financial constraints are limiting Macedon Ranges Shire Council's ability to deliver new infrastructure and basic maintenance to community expectation.

Last week, Cr Geoff Neil raised alarm over the accumulative effect of the state government's rate cap but passionate debate almost saw him expelled from the meeting.

"The gap between cap and CPI when set in 2015 was modest and coverable. Unfortunately, this gap has grown exponentially, due to the minister, year after year, setting arate cap below CPI," he said.

"Nine years later and the impact on this shire in dollar terms equates to around $6.3 million in missed revenue.

"Our expenses are getting higher and our revenue is not keeping pace."

Cr Neil tried to rally support for council to write to the Local Government Minister "expressing profound disappointment and concern" over the rate cap set for the 2024-25 financial year "being less than CPI".

"It doesn't recognise the increased costs we face of maintaining the status quo, let alone delivering new services to meet our community expectations," he said.

"I am not seeking amassive rate rise here. The differential between rate rise and CPI is little but spread over the municipality will be asmall impost on ratepayers.

"I am asking the minister to reconsider her position: set the rate cap in line with CPI so that we are all on the same playing field."

While councillors understood the sentiment behind Cr Neil's motion, some opposed its emotive wording and the majority felt adifferent approach was needed.

Cr Jennifer Anderson said therewere many factors to consider under the umbrella of sustainability of local government.

"I don't think linking rate cap to CPI is necessarily the answer and we need to look at amore holistic picture of the financial sustainability of council," she said.

"We have significant weather events and natural disasters, increasing employment costs, some cost shifting from state government and also increased impost from state government of roles that the council needs to play."

Highlighted during debate was the work of peak industry bodies including the Municipal Association of Victoria and Rural Councils Victoria, well as the state government's own investigation into the financial sustainability of local councils.

Cr Neil was critical of council debate.

"While Isat and listened to those not too enamoured with the motion, I've really never heard so much obfuscation in my life. Talk about dance around an issue. It's been amazing to listen to," he said.

In his passionate debate Cr Neil was called out for use of poor language ("damn") and discourteous/insulting remarks referring to fellow councillors.

Cr Neil refused to withdraw his comments at Cr Anderson's request. Mayor Annette Death warned Cr Neil he may be asked to leave the chamber if he continued to make such comments.

The matter disrupted debate for several minutes.

The motion was lost. Adivision recorded those in favour were Crs Neil, Bonanno and West. Those against were Crs Anderson, Death, Pearce, Ridgeway, Guthrie and Walker.

Elliot claims topaward

Kyneton'sElliot Foster has been named Inspirational Student of the Year and Student of the Year Animal Studies in the 2024 Bendigo TAFE Industry Excellence Awards.

Elliot currently works with Farmer Darryl, amobile animal farm based in Kyneton, where he assists with animal care and event setup across Victoria.

After struggling to continue education in mainstream school, Elliot found aplace to combine his learning journey with his passion in caring for animals at TAFE.

Aneuro-diverse learner,Elliot began in the Certificate II in Animal Care and advanced to Certificate III in Animal Care Services where he quickly progressed with some customised support in place.

Gradually Elliot’sconfidence and independence grew

“Weorganised with the TAFE to do akind of split course. My mum would always drive me and stay in the car park, and Iwould always go and sit with her for lunch,” Elliot said.

“It was not easy to integrate myself but then eventually Idid start to break out of my shell abit and Iwas able to catch public transport on my own.

“I’ve always loved animals since Iwas young, the way they behave, the way they can understand us and the connection we can have with them.

“That’swhy Ichose to come here and do Animal Studies at Bendigo TAFE and throughout the year,Iknew that I could start taking the next step.

“I kind of wanted to do something that helps other people through animals, they’ve helped me with my anxiety and keep me very grounded and centred and give me alot more confidence as well.”

Macedon Ranges' Citizen of the Year for 2024, Tony Davis, has won another accolade.

Tony won the Volunteer Commitment Award at the Victorian Volunteer Awards at Government House last Tuesday

Adedicated figure in the sporting community,his commitment to volunteering spans more than five decades, including as afounding member of Kyneton Little Athletics.

Tony has been asteadfast volunteer every Saturday morning for 53 years, holding roles such as secretary,starter,line marker, and representative at regional and state conferences. His humble and kind demeanour,coupled with unwavering dedication, has played a pivotal role in fostering the growth and success of Kyneton Little Athletics, where he continues to make alasting impact at the age of 83.

Tony said that while he was proud to receive the award there were alot of people who helped along the way

"My wife Margaret has been with little aths and me for nearly 60 years, we started together before we were married at Oakleigh Little Aths," he said.

"And there'salways been people on the committee and others who have given me support.

"I love the interaction with the kids, it'swhatgives you the mostenjoyment, andifyou get pleasure in doing something then just keep doing it!"

Youth Fest grants open

Amonth-long festival will showcase the skills and achievements of Victoria’syouths later this year and grants are available to support events across the state.

Victorian Government grants of up to $2000 aim to assist sector organisations, local government and schools to partner with youths aged 12 to 25 to create youthspecific events.

Youth Fest kicks offinSeptember,with this investment supporting young people to organise and deliver events, showcase their skills, share ideas, build social connections, and expand their networks.

Applications are open until March 15.

To apply and to find out more about the grant program, visit: vic.gov.au/youth-fest-grants

Elliot Foster with Bendigo TAFE CEO Sally Curtain.

Tony Davis with his Volunteer Commitment Award at Government House.

12-Tuesday,

More than hot flushes

The subject of perimenopause and menopause will be in the spotlight as part of aspecial talk by Dhelkaya Community Health Nurse Bron Grieve this Thursday evening March 7.

The free session 'Menopause: Misery or Mastery' at the Castlemaine Library in Mechanics Lane will discuss the 'whys and whats' of symptoms, the most recent information, and what options exist to treat these symptoms.

"It seems to be atopic affecting so many people’slives with so much confusion around it," Bron said.

"It'smore than hot flushes and sweats. This talk is about arming women with the most up-to-date information and helping them navigate this tricky and often extremely challenging time in their lives."

To register for the free session visit goldfieldslibraries.com

Dutch auction

Join Kyneton Friends of Vision Australia for aDutch auction on Friday March 22.

The auction will be held at the Uniting Church, Ebden Street, Kyneton, from 1.30pm.

Admission is $7 and includes afternoon tea.

Donations of new goods to be auctioned are greatly appreciated before the day

Enquiries to president Kathy 0418 145 847 or secretary/treasurer Jean 0409 176 949.

‘ParkyPals’ offersupport, hope and friendship

Castlemaine now has its own Parkinson’s support group, affectionately known as 'Parky Pals'.

The group formed in late 2023 and is fast gaining momentum with about 30 regular participants from across the Mount Alexander Shire and beyond.

Dhelkaya Health community health nurse, Bron Grieve, said Parkinson'sdisease was a progressive, degenerative neurological condition that affected aperson'scontrol of their body movements.

"In Australia, 38 people are diagnosed

every day (Shake it up Australia Foundation)," she said.

"The incidence of Parkinson’shas doubled since 2015 in Victoria and Castlemaine is no exception.

"Parky Pals is for anyone who has any type of connection to the disease –family,friends, carers and those living with Parkinson’sdisease. Everyone is welcome.

"The group has movement sessions, guest speakers, tea and coffee and plenty of time and space to connect with others."

At last week'sgathering, Parky Pals en-

joyed atalk from amember ofthe Dhelkaya Health Adult Day Services team and next month they will have avisit from the Nordic Pole Walkers group. Bron said the group was open and friendly,and feedback and ideas were always encouraged.

Parky Pals meet on the third Monday of each month at10.30am at the Castlemaine Golf Club, Pyrenees Highway,Muckleford.

Anyone interested in finding out more about the friendly local group can contact Bron Grieve on 0439 187 051 or email BGrieve@castlemainehealth.org.au

Celebrate women through song

Incomparable Irish-Australian singer/ songwriter Maggie Jackson, has curated an international concert to be held at the Phee Broadway Theatre for International Women's Day on March 8

Featuring performances from; Aboriginal and South Sea Islander singer songwriter Trudy Fatnowna Edgeley, who blends soul, gospel, work-song and tribal rhythms to share the stories of her people; writer and comedian Sue Ingleton, who has dedicated her creative life to fighting for equality for women and Aria Award winning singer songwriter and folklorist Kavisha Mazzella AM

With performances by Castlemaine-based guitarist and singer and Brazillian music wiz Jo Huf, Acapella group the Blenders and Ceolbana (Gaelic for women of song)

Contemporary dance performer, Argentinian-born Carla Gallego, will take to the stage, pushing the boundaries of dance and expression

"The concert is a way to bring the flowers of the forest (a Celtic term for young women) to grow up into the branches of the oak tree (the older women)," Maggie said

"The depths of a women's soul is a very important part of society and it should be celebrated "I believe in a gentle wave, not screaming and shouting, but leading by example in a show of strength by lifting one another up

"I love this town and I am thrilled to be performing with these great women and to bring love and joy "

The Castlemaine International Women's Day Concert is at 7pm on Friday, March 8 (arrive at 6 30pm for a 7pm start) in the Phee Broadway Theatre

Tea, coffee and light refreshments will be provided with support from the RSL and people are invited to bring a plate of finger food to share after the concert in the Library Foyer

Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at eventbrite or at the door

Carla Gallego from Buenos Aires, Argentina, will wow audiences with an incredible dance performance at the Castlemaine International Women’s Day Concert on March 8

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What’sOn!

Model railway on show

AModel Railway,Craft and Hobbies Exhibition is on this coming Labour Day weekend in Kyneton.

Discover more than 24 layouts and stalls, traders, barista coffee and asausage sizzle. Open from 10am to 5pm Saturday and 10am to 4pm Sunday,the exhibition will be held in Quambi Stadium, Sacred Heart College (Entry via New and Begg Streets). Free parking.

Flowers and produce

More than acentury of horticultural history returns to Mount Macedon on March 16-17 with the annual Autumn Flower and Produce Show

The show is open to all residents in the Macedon Ranges, with no charge for entries. Entries from children are especially welcome, with separate categories available for different age groups. This year the Autumn Flower and Produce Show will be held in the Society’sHall at 583 Mt Macedon Road, Mt Macedon, where it co-locates with the Mt Macedon Golf Club. The Show will be held over the weekend of Saturday and Sunday,March 16 and 17, with visitors welcome on Saturday afternoon, and on Sunday when Devonshire teas will be available.

The Mt Macedon &District Horticultural Society was formed in 1922 and has held autumn shows almost every year since. However,the spirit of the show dates back even earlier with acompetitive show held to show offflowers and produce from many grand gardens in the area, several ofwhich had teams of gardeners employed on afull-time basis. While those times have gone, there are many large and small gardensinMt Macedon and surrounding towns where the owners continue the tradition of growing awide range of flowers, plants and produce. The full listofcategories, together details for entering, can be found at “mountmacedonhorticulture.org.au” or on the Society’sFacebook page.

In thesechallenging timeswecould alldowitha randomact of kindness. In weekly randomactsofkindness theMidland Express will be giving away 7 vouchers (1 voucherper week)toour loyalreaderstospend

Redesdale CommunityMarket

TheRedesdale Community Market is on this Sunday.

Go alongand stockup on local produce,retro vintageand pre-loved goods, and craft. There will also be food trucks, children’sgames, interactive workshops, asausage sizzle,tea/coffee,a CFAdisplayand raffle

It’son at the Redesdale Recreation Reserve from 9am to 1pm, SundayMarch 10 Entryisfree.Stallholdersare welcome.Stalls$20. The Labour Dayweekend is one of the year’sbusiest forthe area. Trafficflowisatits peak as tourists travel through Redesdale on their wayto Lake Eppalock, Bendigo, Heathcote and northern Victoria. Contact Craig on 0408 890060 oremail 3444reserve@gmail.com

What’sOn!

Musicroyalty heads to TheRock

Australian music royalty,Mahalia Barnes and The Soul Mates, will be among the special guest artists performing at The Macedon Ranges Music Festival at Hanging Rock on

Saturday March 23 from 1pm-10pm.

The one-day festival only releases 1000 tickets and promises to be another sellout in 2024. First release tickets are now on sale.

Also in the lineup will be some of Australia’sfinest musical

outfits including local favourite Taylor Sheridan, contemporary folk singer Alana Wilkinson, ‘Afrodelik’ band Immy Owusu and more. The all-ages event caters for young and old with kids activities including ajumping castle and face painting. For the adults, there will be abar stocked with local wine, beer, cider and apop-up gin bar from Gisborne-based Mountain Distilling as well as arange of food trucks and stalls.

CelebrateatTaradale

With the calendar month to the start of autumn in full swing, the days in central Victoria have the promise to be golden ones weather-wise. No wonder events held at this time of the year are so popular! And that, of course, includes the Taradale Mineral Springs Festival.

Held now for 15 years on the Labour Day long weekend (this year,that will be Sunday March 10) it has become adistrict highlight.

The festival was awarded Community Event of the Year 2024 at the Mount Alexander Shire Council Australia Day –Survival Day awards and the festival committee is planning to make this year’sevent the biggest and best in its history

Attractions will include more than 50 stands offering awide range of food, wine, craft beer,gin and whisky

There will be jewellery,a CFAdisplay and activities, aclassic car display,live music on stage all day,plus many children’sactivities, face painting, plaster painting, storytelling and Captain Koala. Committee president, Peter Phillips, said organisers had worked for many months to assemble agreat lineup of stall-

holders and entertainment for this year’sevent.

All proceeds from MRMF will go to support grassroots community development projects in rural Cambodia through the Cambodian Kids Foundation.

Tickets are now on sale with first release adult tickets from $40 and kids under five free.

Tickets:All ages. Adults from $40, kids under five free. More info and ticketsatwww.macedonrangesmusicfestival. org

Sunday10thMarch2024

10am-4pm

“Wehave araffle with over $7000 in prizes including a$5000 travel prize courtesy of Broadhurst Property,with tickets just $5 each,” Peter said.

Entry to the festival is $5, with free admission for children under 15. All proceeds go towards Taradale Volunteer Community Groups to assist with local projects.

“Weare very grateful to our major sponsors, Broadhurst Property,Malmsbury Pharmacy,Castlemaine Slate and Stone, Good Earth Garden Supplies, Interior Solutions, Malmsbury Bakery and Metro Taradale, for supporting the event and making it possible. The festival is supported by the Mount Alexander Shire Council Event Grants Program,” Peter said.

You’ll find the festival at the Taradale Mineral Springs Reserve on the Old Calder Highway from 10am-4pm.

Wantagoodcoffee?

When you’re out and about enjoying the vibe of acolourful and exciting event, there’snothing quite like adelicious, warming coffee made from freshly roasted artisan coffee beans.

At the Taradale Mineral Springs Festival, you’ll be able to get one of your favourite coffee hits from the popular Rafael’s Coffee.

Rafael’sCoffee is afamily-owned and operated artisan coffee roastery based in Lancefield. They have been hitting our tastebuds since 2012 when the family’s quest for local quality and freshly roasted coffee inspired the establishment of their

boutique roastery.Theycreate their own blends as well as offer seasonal singleorigin coffee beans and blends. To keep the coffee journey interesting, they are constantly on the lookout for beans from regions and growers around the world. And with apersonal and customised service, you know your Rafael’sCoffee will be one of the best.

Did you know they’re hiring? Contact Raf on 0457 866 125 if you want to join his small, professional and dedicated team as abarista or front of house. He’ll provide all the training you need!

Apple pie

Love an apple pie –and who doesn’t? But of course,ifyou don’t want to bake your own, finding agood one can be atask ... butnot at the HarcourtApplefest!

Fun in the fruit fields

Kitchens have warmed up and are buzzing around the HarcourtValleyPrimarySchool community as apple pie ingredients are assembled, readyfor the big day. The HarcourtValleyPrimarySchool is busy cooking apple pies forthe fundraiser stall at Applefest. Everyyear the CWAand past and present parents of HarcourtValley PrimarySchool gettogether to cook scores of apple pies to be sold at the Applefest. These pies are so sought after theydisappear before luncheveryyear.Soto be forewarned is to be forearmed –get to the school’sapple pie selling stall early on the daysoyou don’t miss out!

And youcan supportthe primaryschool further on the day, just listen to what’s coming from the Main Stage during the morning and you’ll hear the choir along with the Thompson FoundryBand.

Meet Peter’scamels

Peter Hodge’slife with camels began in 1986 when, as ataxi driver in Alice Springs, he went out with afew mates one weekend to catch acouple of feral camels. He was hooked on the animals immediately and decided he wanted to learn all he could about them.

Five years later he decided he wanted to own afew of them and they eventually came to him from Central Australia. Naturally enough Tasmania, where Peter was living at the time, was pretty short on the supply of camels!

“Originally Ibought the camels as ahobby, but it quickly became evident how popular the camels were,” he said.

“So, from my home in Boat Harbour on the north-west of Tassie, Ibegan to give some rides and attend school fetes, shows and festivals.”

Peter and his family (and camels!) came to live in Victoria in 1996 and from then the

camels’ popularity and demand grew “Promotional work, films and the occasional wedding were the top of the list,” Peter said. “These days our workload takes us to many wonderful places as Icontinue to share my beautiful camels with people who want the animals to add something special to their event.

“My love for these animals has grown over the years and Ihave trained many camels for people who started just like me all those years ago. “These days my camels not only work with me but are my hobby as well.”

People might remember Peter and his camels at last year’sGather Harcourt. There was atwo-hour wait for aride but Peter was amazed at the patience, politeness and welcome he received from the people at Harcourt and offered to come back for Applefest –this time with five camels! Rides will cost $15.

Applefest celebrities

As ayoung girl living in Harcourt, Katie Petrusma dreamed of the day she would become Applefest Royalty and this year her dream has become areality!

On March 8, Katie will officially be crowned as Lady William, with her husband David Scolfield standing proudly beside her as he is crowned King Jonathan.

The Petrusma/Scolfields are no strangers to dressing up, regularly venturing over to Kryal Castle with seven-year-old son Louis and eight-year-old daughter Nora, where they donperiod costumes and David, aformer chaplain at Highview College, also moonlights as Santa Claus for the local Christmas carols each year

David, who moved to the area three and ahalf years ago,isnow working atMount Alexander Shire Council as the business support officer in the community wellbeing team and Katie works for the federal government, commuting toMelbourne each week for work.

“We’re really looking forward to it,” David said referring to the Applefest.

“I love the magic and fantasy and beingable to spread joy

“We’ve been keepinga lid on it up until now,but people at work found out and they’re all pretty excited about it,” he said.

The newly appointed Harcourt Applefest Royalty –King Jonathan and Lady William –will be crowned at the Art Show opening at James Park on Friday, March 8at7.30pm

March 9th

Fun in the fruit fields

The countdown is on

It’snearly here –the 2024 Harcourt Applefest bringing aday of fun, creativity and entertainment as adistrict celebrates its heritage and all that it has to offer today

Be at James Park in Harcourt from 10am-3pm on Saturday March 9and experience what agreat day out with family and friends is all about!

A$5entry fee per adult (children free) includes entertainment, afabulous market, the best of apple produce and so much more

The artshow

This is anart show that is the essence of the Harcourt Valley.The Harcourt Applefest Art Show is an intimate and distinctive exhibition for smaller works.

The exhibition and sale of high-quality original art has become central to the festival. With awards and acclaim to be won, the show has ahistory of impressive entries and esteemed exhibitors.

Your Applefest ticket grants every Applefest-attendee access to the works on display at the ANA Hall.

The grand opening and awards night will be held on the Friday night before Applefest. Artworks will remain ondisplay for Applefest celebrations and throughout the Labour Day long weekend.

The cooking comp

Test your baking and chutney making skills alongside the region’sbest.

Applefest has an excellent cookery competition. While apple pie gets theheadlines, there are also categories for best apple cake, apple muffins and preserves, too. Entries need to be delivered to the Fruit Growers’Tent by 10.30am on the day.Judging will take place at 11am, with winners announced on the main stage at 1.25pm.

There is no entry fee, but unlimited glory to be won by both adult and junior bakers.

The Lego comp

One of the reasons why Lego is so popular is because it is so versatile and enjoyable for all ages. Youare only limited by your imagination and can build models just for the fun. Youcan takeapart whatever you build and rebuild it another day as something completely different. Adults or children of different ages can sit and play altogether.Sojoin the the Applefest Lego competition.

The pie eating

Apple pie is amuch-loved and anticipated treat that everyone looks forward to at Applefest.

The apple pie eating competition is afun, gloriously messy,and light-hearted experience for spectators and participants alike. Curious about the rules? Justgoalong on the day

Alittle history

As Harcourt comes together to celebrate the district with the annual Applefest as it has since 1991, it’sworth taking time to find out why –apart from the excuse of agreat,fun day out of course!

The first orchards were planted out in 1857 by William Eagle, William Ely,Henry Ely and Nathanael Vick and within years, the fruit was being exported to England. they were following on from what Samuel Sutton had discovered afew years earlier: the fertile sandy granitic soils, the climate and water supply made the Harcourt Valley perfect for apple growing. Today,despite aslump in the industry because of the loss of export markets in 1962 three are still hundreds of hectares of apple orchards across the Harcourt district. About 40 per cent of Victoria’sapples are grown in Harcourt.

The Old Calder,Danns Road, Reservoir Road and above McIvor Road are where people will find large orchard acreages. The biggest wholesale growers in Australia, WF Montague and Geoffrey Thompson, grow apples in Harcourt. Some apple varieties grown in Harcourt include pink lady,royal gala, fuji, sundowner,red delicious and granny smith. The new season’sapples are usually available to buy around the time of the Harcourt Applefest.

and get stuck in.

This year,there will be three categories for participants –primary school, secondary school and open.

To enter: you will see aplace near the main stage to register around eating time which will be from 12.55pm onthe main stage.

The Market

The bustling market will begin at10am.There’ll be plenty ofarts, makers andplant stalls from the local area along with local produce, tasty food, and wine to enjoy Entertainment is headlined byDuck Cameron the Conjurer –Master Magician –withtwo shows (noon and 2.30pm)and Wendy Stapleton’sAustralian Women’sChoir (1.35pm), with plenty of other local talent on display throughout the day

Ode to Dusty

Beloved Australian singer,songwriter and actress, Wendy Stapleton, will present her outstanding tribute to the songs and career of Dusty Springfield as part of aspecial performance at this year’sHarcourt Applefest.

Dusty Springfield, Britain’sgreatest female pop singer,enjoyed a 35-year career in music because of her unique heartbreaking voice, and her unfailing belief in songwriters such as Carol King, Gerry Gollin, Randy Newman, John Kander,Burt Bacharach and Hal David just to name of few Starring Wendy Stapleton as Dusty and featuring fabulous musical theatre singer/dancers and musicians, this unique show takes you on acolourful journey through all the hits of the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s that made Dusty ahousehold name.

This show is the original production that has delighted audiences all around Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom.

As an added bonus, Wendy Stapleton’sAustralian Women’sChoir will also be among the performers on the Applefest Main Stage during the Saturday March 9festival extravaganza.

Tickets to the show at Harcourt’sANA Hall, 7High Street, 7pm9.30pm are $30 (children under 16 free) and can be purchased at events.humanitix.com/applefest-evening-concert

is nestled in thebeautifulHarcourtValley just2kms south of Harcourt. Blackjack Vineyards offersa friendly welcomeand achance to tastesome excellent awardwinning full bodied reds made from Shiraz, Cabernetand Merlot grapes. Wine thathas twice wonthe trophyfor the ‘BestShiraz’ at the RoyalMelbourne Wine Show.

Open for tastings and sales at weekends 11am to 5pm or by prior arrangement.

Local knowledge (1 point)

1. Musician Mick Slocum has been commissioned by Australia Post to do what across the region?

2. The Kindness Collective at Kyneton is hosting an Op Shop Fashion Parade fundraiser this month for what cause?

3. Which town is home to the annual Applefest?

4. Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas is also Victoria’s Minister for what?

(3 points)

5. Macedon Ranges singer/songwriter Taylor Sheridan is supporting which Aussie legend in his upcoming national tour culminating in aperformance at the Sydney Opera House?

General knowledge (1 point)

6. Who is known for the theory of evolution by natural selection?

7. How many sides does aheptagon have?

8. In golf, what name is given to the act of aplayer scoring three strokes under par on asingle hole?

9. Who had amemoirentitled Becoming released in 2018?

(3 points)

10. The Galapagos Islands owes its name to which creature that lives there?

Anational dayfor everyone

Neil Barker,Romsey

Anumber of letters have been sent to this paper recently that support the retention of Australia Day (January 26) as a national day to be celebrated by everyone. The 'fly in the ointment' here is that many First Nations Australians do not want this day to be celebrated, as it commemorates the ceding of the ownership of aboriginal lands in New South Wales to the British Monarch, King George III. It also commemorates the establishment of apenal colony, it began along period of love and devotion to all things British, and eventually in 1901, led to the formation of the While Australia Policy,which prevented non Europeans or anyone of colour from migrating here. Australians have thankfully moved on since then.

Many are now uncomfortable with this date, as it seems to endorse the idea that celebrations should be confined to migrants who arrived here after 1788, and that the feelings and emotions of First Nations people should not be considered. This is no longer the 'Australian way'.

We no longer pander to British traditions and are now proud to join the multicultural nations of the world in becoming an inclusive society,respectful ofother cultures, and ready to commemorate our achievements since 1788. The time has now come for selecting another national day.One that everyone can celebrate.

BFDupgrade welcomed

Name and address supplied

Good to see the Black Forest Drive safety upgrades going ahead. Irrespective of anoisy minority and their persistent fear

mongering regarding ‘tailgating and bushfire access’, this upgrade of an old and not fit-for-purpose lightly used road will provide improved safety for ALL road users not just motorists.

RegionalVictorians ignored

Elizabeth McCann, RegionalVictorians Opposed to DuckShooting Inc.

There is awhole other side to the duck hunting debatethat is neither science nor ideology that seems to have been totally disregarded in the government’srecent announcement to continue arecreational duck hunting season.

This relates to the serious issues that regional residents and landowners are forced to live with as aresult of the shooting. Some of these issues include trespass (by armed offenders whose acts cannot be prosecuted as they aren’t able to be identified), theft of firewood (most often habitat timber), littering and contamination to what is often food-producing land (plastic shotgun shells and wads, lead, human excreta), dead and injured birds washing up that have to be then managed by landowners and the very loud and disturbing gunfire noise at all times of the day and night that scares animals (causing fleeing) and children (often sleeping), not to mention if you are working from home (as is the nature of farming) and trying to conduct aZoom meeting. Can you imagine for aminute trying to go about your daily business with this occurring in your backyard?

Regional Victorians have been ignored in this decision to continue the killing of native birdlife for recreation.

Regardless ofmany invitations, no MP has bothered to visit these people to experience it for themselves. If they did,while

Stepping up in the fight

Relayers filled Lancefield Park for the annual Macedon Ranges Cancer Council Relay for Life event at the weekend.

The Relay had 16 teams, with the highest fundraisers for this year being Clarkefield and Friends ($6643), Puddles Team ($5777) and J.K’sJoggers ($5027), all of whom, having raised more than $5000, are entitled to allocate their funds to aparticular Cancer Council research program.

"It truely is wonderful to see the community band together to support acause that has affected nearly everyone at some point in their life," said Ken Wiltshire, chair of the organising committee.

"The array of age groups who partake in volunteering, fundraising, relaying or just being present is lovely to see.

"Relay is such amoving event that createsabig impact not only for the cancer council'sresearch and programs, butitoffers support for our community members who are currently fighting cancer,celebrating surviving or remembering loved ones they have lost."

The final result on the night was $39,576 with more funds expected to be banked in the next four weeks, after which this year's result will be finalised. The cumulative amount raised in the 21 Relay for Life events that have been run in Lancefield is $1,778,218.

After many years of support,the winner of the 'Spirit of Relay' was Luke Fitzpatrick of Riddells Creek Bin Hire who most generously provided the Relay with afree skip each year

Paulson to be honoured

Castlemaine Cemetery Trust invites community members to aspecial event to honour the life of local artist Anne Paulson (née Dawn) on International Women'sDay this Friday March 8.

Paulson (1809-1866) was aremarkable but little-known artist who lived in Castlemaine. Castlemaine Art Museum has anumber of Paulson'sworks and the National Gallery of Victoria holds her sketchbooks.

The artist is buried in Castlemaine Cemetery at Campbells Creek and the trust plans to honour her with aplaque to be unveiled on International Women'sDay by Bendigo West MP Maree Edwards. The event will take place at 9.15am.

they are there they could see the wonderful work these landowners are doing for regeneration of the natural environment on their properties using their own money.This is clear evidence that no, Minister Dimopoulos, you have not listened toregional people when making adecision that affects these people’slivelihood, safety,homes, recreation and peace for aquarter of the year

Regional folks are now left feeling helpless, abandoned and unworthy.Itwould appear the hypothetical decline in mental health of city-based union members (who have achoice to move on to many other recreational activities) is more important than regional landowners who cannot simply pack up and move on.

All this at atime when we have a worsening mental health crisis in the bush for farmers dealing with everything from extreme weather events to price gouging.

Thanks for the honour

Margaret and Tony Davis, Kyneton

Recentlyatthe awards evening in January,myhusband Tony Davis was awarded Macedon Ranges Citizen of the Year for his volunteering and service to Kyneton Little Athletics.

We would like to thank Macedon Ranges Council for making these awards available to the people of the shire.

Thank you to everyone who congratulated both of us when we have been out and about.

On February 27 we went down toGovernment House as Tony was also afinalist for the Volunteer Commitment award, which he also won.

On behalf of Tony and our family,we would liketoacknowledge the time and work that was involved with both of these awards and give special thanks to Kate Mackey,the nominator for both.

againstcancer

Other highlights of the event included arelaxing morning tea for survivors and carers, couch rides for the lazy walkers thanks toGisborne’sUntitled Youth team, an array of entertainment from an eclectic mix of local musicians, fun competitions and abeautiful candlelight service to finish with.

Can you use adefib?

Are you amember of acommunity group that has adefibrillator at the ready but are not certain how to use it?

Arepresentative from Ambulance Vicwill be visiting the Gisborne Uniting Church, 23 Brantome Street, on Tuesday March 12 from 10am- noon to demonstrate how and when to use the group'snewly acquired defibrillator and also update everyone on how to perform CPR.

This is something for all ages, and an open invitation is extended to the community to join the Uniting Church people on that morning. Morning tea will be served.

Co-op launch Wednesday

Supporters of the newly formed Castlemaine Community Investment Co-Operative are invited to go to the co-op's official launch at the Castlemaine Town Hall tomorrow evening, Wednesday March 6.

The event will begin at 5.30pmand there will be music, apresentation of the co-op’s firstmember and supporter, special edition t-shirts for sale, and aQ &Aabout the co-op and its proposed investment in The Hub Building Castlemaine (cnr Barker and Templeton Streets).

You can learn more about the co-op on its website: castlemaine.coop

Services. 5. Jimmy Barnes. 6. Charles Darwin. 7. Seven. 8. Albatross. 9. Michelle Obama. 10. Tortoise.

Clarkefield and Friends were the highest fundraisers in the Macedon Ranges Relay for Life.

Beware locking them in

To prevent children being locked in hot cars, RACV is appealing to all parents and carers to adopt safe behaviours, particularly during hot weather

Last year,RACVEmergency Roadside Assistance patrols received 664 calls to help rescue children accidentally locked in vehicles.

RACV head of policy, James Williams, said cabin temperatures could more than double in hotter months, even if acar was in the shade.

“Tests conducted by RACV have shown that vehicle interiors can reach more than 70 degrees celsius in just minutes when the outside temperature is only 30 degrees celsius,” Mr Williams said.

"When you factor in the increased vulnerability that children have to heat, dehydration and heatstroke, being stuck inside acar on ahot day is avery dangerous proposition.”

RACV is advising parents and carers to follow these steps to avoid accidentally locking keys in the car with achild inside.

*Wind windows down before putting children in the car in case the car automatically locks. Once you are driving, it is recommended to wind them back up.

*Never give your keys to children to

play with.

*Avoid distractions when loading your car

*Find an easy way to hold on to your keys such as alanyard or clip.

If achild is accidentally locked in the car, parents and carers should:

*Call131111immediately for RACV emergency roadside assistance.

*Call000 immediately for life threatening emergencies.

*Keep calm but act quickly

“It is so easy to get distracted as people are going about their normal daily routine. If carers can adopt asafe mindset and behaviours, we can hopefully all enjoy asafesummer,” Mr Williams said.

Thegreatswap meet

Castlemaine's Camp Reserve will be bustling with activity on Sunday April 7for one of the region'slargest and most successful events, the Castlemaine Lions Club Swap Meet. This year marks the 38th annual swap meet. It is expected to once again draw thousands of visitors through the gates from across the state and beyond to buy and browse from 550 plus stalls selling all manner of things.

Castlemaine Lions Club Swap Meet chairman, Ron Gartside, said patrons could expect to find atreasure trove of vintage and veteran car and motorcycle parts, memorabilia, antiques, collectables, and bric-a-brac.

"You may even find avehicle or two up for grabs," he said.

"Wehave stallholders coming from all over Victoria and some from South Australia and New South Wales and Tasmania.

There will be onsite catering available throughout the day including abarbecue, hot food, fresh sandwiches, hot and cold drinks and more. Gates open at 6am.

Entry is $8. Children under 15 free. Enquiries to Ron at rongartside@live.com.au

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All sorts of fun stuffonwheels old school cars, motorcycles and heaps more is coming back to Etty Street in April for Castlemaine's2024 Autopia.

This year the theme is Women Behind the Wheel and funds will be going towards supporting breast cancer research.

This event is one for men, women (especially this time around) and kids who have an interest in hot rods, classics, vintage, street machines, drag racing and all the extras that go along with these things!

It'sonSaturday April 13 from 10am-4pm and Sunday April 14 from 10am-2pm.

Entry will be $10 an adults or $20 per car and children under 10 free. Afamily will be $25 to go along. It'swill be at Autoplex, 35 Etty Street Castlemaine. It is hosted by the Castlemaine Hot Rod Centre.

The Compost Conversation

Birthday Club

Covering the Macedon Ranges and Mount Alexander Shires

Circulated throughout:

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

ELLIOTT MIDLAND NEWSPAPERS

KYNETON

3Market St., PO Box153,Kyneton, 3444

Telephone: (03) 5422 1488

Facsimile: General (03) 5422 3173

CASTLEMAINE

13 Hargraves St.,POBox 227,Castlemaine,3450

Telephone: (03) 5472 1788

Facsimile: (03) 5472 4504

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Email: Kyneton: ahume@midnews.com.au

Castlemaine: ldennis@midnews.com.au

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General Manager: Tim Ellen Editor: Angela Crawford

Sales

Flat out forgreat compost

Note: We have decided to leave our article on making biochar until after the fire season is passed.

There is one procomposting tip that sets the serious composters apart from the pack. It is so simple you might not believe what a difference it can make, but if Icould share only one composting tip with someone, Ithink this would be it….

As you add to your compost pile, keep the top of your compost flat. It is that simple!

It doesn’t matter if it’saGedye-style lidded bin, acompost bay made out of old pallets or afinely crafted timber extravaganza, just keep the additions to your pile flat.

Last year Mikaela Beckley,YIMBY composter extraordinaire, wrote afantastic Compost Conversation (#8) likening making compost to cooking alasagne, and encouraged us to build our pile in nice thin, flat layers with agood mix of different materials. Golden advice!

Iwant to focus on that one word 'flat'.

When we mound upthe top of our compost, we lose control of the layers. Food scraps can heap in the middle, or big bits can roll offtothe sides. In a mounded compost, layers of dryer carbon-rich ingredients –like straw or wood chips –tend to fall to the sides, leaving the wet centre uncovered and exposed to flies or rodents.

All this this leads to inconsistencies in our compost, with dryer patches offtothe sides and wetter or even anaerobic –not enough oxygen, so starting to smell bad –centres. Mounded composts are also harder to cover with agood carbon capping layer

So, Iencourage you to take the time to level offthe top ofyour pile, you might do this with afork, the end of agarden machete or with rubber-gloved hands. If

it has been awhile since your compost has had someattention, perhaps aquick aeration mix with acompost screw or fork is in order first.

Now is also agood time to check the moisture content, does it need alittle more wetting up?

Once the top of your pile is flat, then add and spread out your new compost offerings thinly on the top of the pile. If it is abig load, youmight want to layer it in two batches with abalancing layer in between. Carbon-rich if it is food scraps, nitrogen-rich if it is woody garden prunings. Always finish with agoodcapping of carbon-rich cover like straw.Then, next time youcome backtoyour pile you’ll find it flat and ready for the next offering. With aflat compost, you areincontrol of where things in the pile go.

If you are still mounding your compost, it is time to try flat, Idon’t think you’ll go back.

–Joel Meadows works with *YesIn My Back Yard, (YIMBY), acommunityscale composting initiative in Castlemaine and surrounds. Search previous articles at yimbycompost.com/resources. Send questions or comments to hello@yimbycompost.com

Good lineup of cattle

Kyneton livestock agents yarded just under 1000 cattle at their monthly store cattle sale held on Wednesday

Agood quality lineup of cattle came forward with all types and breeds of cattle on offer

Steers sold to atop of $1830 weaner steers to $1360. Heifers to atop of $1300. Heifer weaners to $1120 and cows and calves traded between $1450 to $1800. A quality pen of preg-tested angus heifers sold at $1760.

Agood turnout of prospective purchasers were at the rail with cattle purchased to go to areas including Albury,Ballarat, Bendigo, Coonamble, Dubbo, Leongatha, Wangaratta, Yeaand solid local support. One exporter and three processors also competed on suitable cattle.

The sale was fully firm on recent major Victorian sales with acouple of quality lines of featured steers selling at dearer rates.

Some prices

Dand SAnderson 39 angus steers weighing between 451 kg to 506 kg sold between $1580 to 1680.

Mingela Past co 54 angus steers weighing between 375 kg to 500 kg sold between $1380 to $$1440.

A/c SCooper angus cross steers @$1830.

A/c BGray,murray grey steers @$1670.

A/c D&L Schooling angus steers @$1560.

A/c DGarner angus steers @$1580.

A/ cBHogan angus steers @$1580.

A/c KDouglas angus steers @$1400.

A/c Riverina Farms angus steers @$1360.

A/c HBourke angus steers sold @$1360.

A/c PNewell angus steers @$1260.

A/c DK and HA trading angus steers @$1250.

A/c Rockhouse murray grey steers @$1000.

A/c Sand ETwoomeyangus cross steers @$1010.

A/c RStinangus crosscows and calves sold at $1800.

A/c RHargreaves angus cross cows and calves sold @$1600.

A/c McCabe Nom angus heifers PTIC to angus bulls sold @$1760.

A/c Davis Pastoral angus heifers sold @$1300.

A/c Barondem Past angus heifers sold @$1230.

A/c TWalsh, Angus heifers sold @$1150.

A/c Cardillo poll hereford heifers sold @$1020.

A/c Riverina Farms angus heifers sold @$1020.

A/c Mingela Pastoral angus heifers @$1020.

A/c G&L McLennan angus cross heifers @$1030.

A/c ADefazio angus heifers @$700. Steer traded from between $680 to $1830 per head or 2.90 per kg to 3.80 cents akg. Heifers traded between $580 to $1300 per head or 250 cents akgto309 cents akg.

Acubic metre YIMBY compost bay with the wire and shadecloth sides removed shows the flat layering as the pile was built over multiple weeks.

Magnificent LauristonPark

Ahome to nurture-p30

Mid-century time capsule -p34

Thoughtfuldesign -p38

Ahome to nurture

Tucked away in the quiet locale of McEwan Street, with the best of both worlds, ashort walk into Castlemaine, yet in nature with walking tracks and a borrowed landscape at our doorstep, is this 1950’s period three-bedroom home plus studio, beautifully presented inside and out and move in ready Aconvenient location allows one to walk to the Bromley &CoxCastlemaine Gaol, the train station, the Mill Complex and into central Castlemaine for retail and amenities.

The floorplan consists of entry from the porch through the striking blue front door into aformal foyer,with a feature pendant light and beautiful period timber details before leading into the living room, dominated by its oversized period windows that wrap around acorner of the room, bringing with it aconnection with nature. Double frosted doors lead into the dining room with a large window overlooking the back garden, and at the heart of the home is the kitchen with timber benchtops, afreestanding 900mm gas cooktop with an oven, adishwasher,storage and outlooks over the rear entertainment deck and garden.

The main bedroom overlooks the native front garden and has built-in robes. Twofurther bedrooms are north-facing, generous in size and separated by a bathroom with ashower over bath, avanity and a

toilet. To the rear of the house is alaundry with an additional separate toilet. Updated for modern comfort and practicality with insulation, gas central heating, concrete stumps, separated NBN to the house and the studio and asplit system in the living room, the home is abundant with period details being ornate plasterwork, timber finishes, flooring and large windows that capture the established garden.

The rear entertainment deck has an elevated view of the back garden and borrowed landscape of neighbouring farmland. Anorth-facing studio provides amultifaceted work or living space, ateenage rumpus, aparent or guest retreat, or allowing one to work from home. The space is highly insulated and features a concrete floor,a split system, an independent NBN connection and alarge storage area that has potential for abathroom conversion (STCA). This manageable 582m2 (approx.) property has ahigh impact, lowmaintenance native garden with rambling pathways, established trees providing shade, afeature pond, quiet sitting areas, asecond entertaining deck, ashed, a carport, a10,000 litre water tank for the garden and a chook pen. To theback of the garden is agate to the borrowed landscape ofthe neighbouring farmland and walking tracks, making this ahome to nurture and feel nurtured.

Property: 1950’speriod three-bedroom home plus studio

Address: 7McEwanStreet Castlemaine

Price: $889,000

Agent: Cantwell Property Castlemaine

Contact: Michael Cantwell 0419 339003

High ExposureShop Front

221 Barker Street, Castlemaine

An opportunity to own the freehold of this highexposurecommercial building, ideally located in the centreofCastlemaine’sthriving business hub.

The 58 sqm building offers vacant or tenanted possession, with a3.7m shop frontage, abathroom and a4mx4mcourtyardwith ashed (with the opportunity for rear access).

$449,000

View

By Appointment

Contact

Michael Cantwell 0419 339 003

AHome to Nurture

7McEwan Street, Castlemaine

Tucked away in the quiet locale of McEwan Street, with the best of both worlds, ashort walk into Castlemaine, yet in naturewith walking tracks and a borrowed landscape at our doorstep, is this 1950s period three-bedroom home plus studio, beautifully presented inside and out and move in ready.This a home to nurtureand feel nurtured.

$889,000

View

Saturday,March 9 10:30am -11:00am

Contact

MichaelCantwell 0419 339 003

Sustainable Community Living

5/19 Reckleben Street, Castlemaine

This two-bedroom, two-storey,corner townhouse with an 8-star plus energy-efficiency rating has an ethos of sustainability,community,and selfsufficiency.Welcome to The Paddock, aunique community-orientated project wherethe buildings, designed for the future, embody the highest standards in environmental design

In

in the historic Victorian Goldfields.

$780,000

View

Saturday,March 9 12:45pm -1:15pm

Contact

Nick Haslam 0422 848 662

$1,150,000

View

Saturday,March 9 1:30pm -2:00pm

Contact

TomRobertson 0473 642 644

Tamara

76

26

Villa 45 Gemlife, Woodend

32

Villa 215Gemlife, Woodend

Mid-century time capsule

Step into abygoneera with this fabulous 1950’s cream brick time capsule home, atrue gem frozen in time. Nestled on the elevated side of the street, the leafy garden entry sets the stage for this impressive property

The well-maintained residence boasts original charm and character throughout including the double glass door entry which welcomes you in via the elevated front porch.

The sun-filled kitchen-meals area is perfect for cosy gatherings, while the spacious lounge room provides a comfortable retreat.

Three double bedrooms offer ample accommodation, two feature built- nrobes and all come with large windows.

The central bathroom has shower and separate toilet

with added external access. Further highlights include ornate cornice, original lights and fittings that add to the home’sauthentic charm.

Under the floor coverings there are hidden hardwood timber floors and the home sits solidly on concrete stumps with excellent vented sub-floor

The concrete driveway leads to not one, but two garages/workshops, providing plenty of space for hobbies or storage.

The easy-care gardens surrounding the property add atouch of greenery without the hassle.

Unlock the full potential of this property with the opportunity to develop dual occupancy or create an amazing space for extension and additional gardening. Enter aworld of nostalgia with endless possibilities!

Property: Delightful and solid, 1950’scream brick home on huge 1100m2 garden.

Address: 28 Gainsborough Street,Castlemaine

Price: $795,000

Agent: Belle Property Castlemaine

Contact: RobWaller 0418 571130

Blasi Mulholland 0417 311 733

ForSale:

Midland

Escapetothe country

Asecluded rural escape 33 acres of complete privacy,this rustic stone home is set right back offthe main road in bushland. Completely offgrid with loads of character,itisthe ideal weekender retreat or permanent home. The house offers two bedrooms, kitchen, dining, living room, study and separate laundry.There

are two fireplaces and ceiling fans for year-round comfort. Externally there are two single carports, machinery shed 6m x9m, mainly timbered land with two dams. Located only 20 minutes from Castlemaine and Daylesford. Please contact Keogh Real Estate today to arrange aprivate inspection.

Country weatherboard home,nestled on 8acres (approx) of peaceful and tranquil bushland to enjoy. Offering threebedrooms, kitchen/dining,lounge, bathroom, toiletand laundry. Outdoors offersa pavedundercoverpatio area, smalldeck and pavedarea with stone firepit forfriends or family to enjoy, multiple carports andshedding

$935,000—$965,000

Property: Secluded, off grid, character property

Address: 89 Molloys Lane,Yandoit

Price: $650,000

Agent: Keogh Real Estate

Contact: 5472 1248

Charmingcottageofferingopenplandiningliving,kitchen,two bedrooms, sharedlaundry andbathroomplus separatetoilet. Split system,gas log fire and ceiling fans foryearroundcomfort.Outdoors, abeautifulmix of cottagestyle gardens andestablishedtrees,undercover decked space, agreat placeto entertain. The483 sqmallotment is fullyfencedand offers asingle carport, additionalparking in drivewayand garden shed.

$650,000—$695,000

8acres

Magnificent Lauriston Park

Stately,luxurious, and steeped in history, Lauriston Park (circa 1853) is agrand 40acre (approx.) estate of the finest calibre, offering the rare combination of astunning traditional bluestone homestead with modern resort-style amenities including a15metre mineralised salt-water swimming pool and full tennis court.

Approached via asweeping tree-lined driveway,the residence embraces true privacy while capturing magnificent views of its idyllic Macedon Ranges setting. Reflecting timeless grandeur,the elegantly appointed home features traditional bluestone architecture, magnificent 11 foot high ceilings, and beautifully updated and extended interiors that seamlessly blend the past with modern amenities for the ultimate rural lifestyle.

Comprising multiple indoor and outdoor entertaining areas, the home is designed around acentral courtyard, with astatement piece bell tower taking in breathtaking 360 degree views. Gorgeous deep set verandas cosset the remarkable home, where an inviting entry room introduces the sense of timeless charm prevalent throughout.

Alounge, family,games, and dining room offer formal and informal entertaining options, while the stunning open plan kitchen/meals showcases glorious waterfall edge stone bench tops, aquality Aga cooker,and alarge walk-in pantry.Outside, awood-fuelled pizza oven inspires alfresco dining, set in the finely curated English-style gardens complete with manicured hedging, amature orchard with nectarine, apple, hazelnut and nashi pear trees and vegetable gardens.

Lavish accommodation of five generous bedrooms and three spa-like bathrooms complete with frameless glass walk-in showering further enhancesthe sophisticated yet relaxed feel of the home, with further comfort and convenience provided by an integrated two car garage, reverse cycle zoned air conditioning, timber flooring, quality carpets, Bose home sound system, ducted vacuum system, and awine cellar

There’salso excellent shedding including alarge machinery shed/workshop (12mx12m) with parking for four vehicles, a10KW solar panel array,fenced paddocks, adam, bore and town water.A stunning, unforgettable property of enduring appeal, Lauriston Park is located in one of Victoria’smost beautiful natural settings

Property: Landmark estate with statelyhomeand gardenson16.19ha

Address: 1634 Trentham Road,Kyneton South

Indicative price: $5,300,000 -$5,700,000.Expressions of interestclose

WednesdayMarch 27 @4pm

Agent: Raine &Horne

Contact: RodCallins 0457681 560 /Ken Grech 0418 509 710

25A Farnsworth Street,

LIGHT FILLED LEAFY AND CONVENIENT

•A rural feel with views to Mt Franklin.

•Walking distance Preand PrimarySchools, Galleries and Rail Station.

•Trellised Gardens with vines and shades trees.

•Solar panels and split system.

OFI: Saturday 9th March-10.00am

6Roberts Avenue, CASTLEMAINE

COMFORTAND CONVENIENCE ON ACORNER

•Asneat as apin with shortstroll to Preand Primary Schools, Convenient Storeand Butchers.

•Corner allotment suitable for further development.

•Ducted heating and cooling re-stumped, re-wired, polished timber floors and sub floor insulation.

•Quality timber windows.

OFI: Saturday 9th March-10.00am

23 Parker Street, CASTLEMAINE LLANBERIS

•Craftsman built with old world charm throughout.

•Walking distance Primaryand SecondarySchools, Café’s,Botanical Gardens, Mill Precinct.

•Ducted heating, split systems, open fireplaces.

Thoughtfuldesign

With ahigh-quality fit-out and designed for energy efficiency,this well maintained two-bedroom townhouse is the perfect choice for eco-friendly living. Eco features include double glazed timber frame windows, Luxaflex Duette window shades, hydronic heating, six-panel solar system, gas boosted solar hot water,water tank with plumbing for toilet and garden use, and the home is fully insulated.

Inside the home, the living, dining and kitchen blend in an open plan format enjoying the warmth and durability of hardwood timber floors. Well-equipped, the kitchen offers gas cooking, double sink, dishwasher and large stone island bench for food prep or casual eating. Both bedrooms are carpeted and have built-in robes.

The second includes aMurphy bed allowing the space to double as astudy/home office. Close to the main bedroom, the bathroom is light and spacious and includes abath and separate shower.Keeping the living space to apremium, the home has aEuropean-style laundry.Anintegrated electrical system connects to an entertainment hub and the home’ssecurity features. There is also aducted vacuum unit servicing the home and garage.

The home has arelaxed easy feel complemented by the landscaped gardens, creating an ideal flow for indoor/ outdoor living. Privacy is ensured by the clever plantings and the property is fully fenced with gated access onto Duke Street and the driveway.Secure parking is via remote door garage.

Inspect:

agent

Agent:

Selwood 0488 148 358

Property: Eco-friendly townhouse living

Address: 1/2MurphyStreet, Castlemaine

Price: $729,000

Agent:

Property Plus Real Estate

Contact: Di Selwood 0488 148 358

• Located in Park Lane Living Bendigo - a friendly boutique village environment

Inspect:

agent

Agent: Kaylene Disher 0431 039 512

Spacious open plan design, good sized bedrooms with BIRs & a two-way bathroom

• Split syst air con & ceiling fans in 3 rooms

• Alfresco living area with decking and awnings overlooking a cottage garden

Belle Property

Castlemaineand Maldon.

35 Templeton Street, Castlemaine

2a 1b 2v 395r

•FalknerGallery -Historic freestanding Shop Gallery &Residence

•Beautiful 1860s façade,6main rooms

•Timberflooring andhigh ceilings.

•Kitchenand leafynorth facing rear garden

Rob Waller |0418571 130

Narelle Waller |0408571 131

For sale View

By appointment

6View Street, Castlemaine

3a 1b 1v 603r

•1800s Timber Cottage haslovely views of thetownship of Castlemaine.

•3 bedrooms anda long central hallway

•Lounge room with fireplace &sunny kitchen.

•1km to the shoppinghub of Castlemaine.

Rob Waller |0418571 130

Blasi Mulholland |0417311 733

Belle PropertyCastlemaine |5470 5811

167 Barker Street, Castlemaine

Belle PropertyMaldon |5475 1055

30A MainStreet,Maldon

belleproperty.com

For sale $575,000

View

Saturday 9th March 1:30pm-2:00pm

28 Franklin Street, Maldon

3a 2b 4v 2525r

•Delightful mid-century homeimmersed in gardenswith12m x7.4mworkshop-studio.

•Modern centralkitchen with french doors.

•Devinegarden with beautiful Iron Arbours

•Quiet locale nearby to shops.

Rob Waller |0418571 130

Narelle Waller |0408 571 131

For sale $965,000

View

Saturday9th March 1:00pm -1:30pm

83 Main Road, Campbells Creek

3a 1b 4v 735r

•Mid-centuryhome,primed forrenovations.

•Wide entrance veranda andprivategardens.

•Spacious loungeroom&modern kitchen

•Largegarage perfect for housing up to 4 cars, and futheroff-street parking.

Blasi Mulholland |0417311 733

Rob Waller |0418571 130

For sale $560,000

View

Saturday 9th March 10:00am -10:30am

Classified DEADLINES

CARNELL -Joy

Forold time sake Rest in Peace

/L

Always Remembered...

Vehicle Advertisers

WILLMOTT

Margaret

Died suddenly at Woodend.

Loving wifeof Keith (dec) Lovedand loving mother and motherinlaw of Karen and Brendan, Diane andDavid. Grandmother to Kyle and Hannah. Sister to Mayand sister in lawtoNeil.

Mum&Dad Reunited

KN276907/L

JoyCarnell

28.2.1942 –27.2.2024

Passedaway peacefully surrounded by family LovedwifeofBrian, Mother of 7children, Nanna of 17grandchildren, Nan of 37 great grandchildren and greatgreat Nan of 1. God sawyou getting tired, and acurewas not to be, so he puthis arms aroundyou, and whispered comewithme. With tearfuleyeswewatched you, and sawyou pass away, and although we lovedyou dearly, we could not makeyou stay.

KN276894/L

Samantha Coustley

Passed away suddenly at home in Bendigo on 17th February2024 aged 51 years

She will be missed by her loving daughters Taylah and Brianna, son in lawChris,granddaughters Eloahand Remi, mother Elaine and brothers Jamesand Marc. Aprivate cremation has been held.

To leave apersonal message please visit Sam’stribute page on the website of Mount AlexanderFunerals

Castlemaine 5470 5951 KN276896/L

Amanda Hoyne

Amanda passed away at Bendigo Hospital on 22nd February2024 at age 65. She will be sorely missed by her partner John, her sonChristopher, and her daughter-in-lawYing.

Aprivate family service will be held forAmanda.

If youwould liketoleave apersonal message, please visit Amanda’stribute page on the website of Mount AlexanderFunerals

Castlemaine 5470 5951 KN276926/L

John Leyshon

Jonno left us on February 24,2024 surroundedbythe love of family and friends We’llremember his music,his wit, and his generosity His daughterwill always want justone more hug, his sonjust one more joke, his friends just onemoresong.

Please join us to celebrate Jonno’s life, at the FiveFlags Hotel in Campbells CreekTODAY (Tuesday) with a service to commence at 1.30pm

To join us at the servicevia livestream, please visit John’s tribute page on the website of MountAlexanderFunerals

Castlemaine 5470 5951 KN276897/J

PamRaciti

Passed away peacefully at homeinCampbellsCreek surroundedbyfriends, on 18thFebruary 2024 aged75years

Afiercely independent woman, who lovedher dog Boris. Survived by herchildren and grandchildren.

Aprivate cremation hasbeenheld.

Castlemaine 5470 5951

KN276893/J

Brenda Marion Warner

Brenda left us peacefully on 1st March 2024 aged 84.

Dearly lovedwifeand friend of Ross Lovingmother of Rachel (dec) and Matthew.

Very special Nann of Katie andJess Abeautiful and gentle soul

Aprivate funeral service will be held forBrendanextWednesday13th March. Herfamily invite youtojoin them at the service via livestream. Details will be placed on Brenda’stribute page on the website of MountAlexanderFunerals

Castlemaine 5470 5951 KN276927/L

Brenda Warner

Akind and caring person. Awonderful mother-in-law.

Youare at peace andreunited withRachel.

Don’t worryabout your boys, I’vegot them. Iwill missyou. Ange

KN276928/L

WILLMOTT

The Funeral Service forthe Late

Mrs Margaret Willmott will be held at St Mary's Anglican Church, 15 Buckland St, Woodend on Thursday, March7, 2024 at 11.00am.

KN276906/L

JoyCarnell

Family and friends are invited to attend the funeral service for Mrs JoyCarnell, to be held in the Chapel of Mount Alexander Funerals, 12 Campbell Street, Castlemaine on Friday8th March commencing at 11.00am.

Following this service the cortege will leave forthe CastlemaineCemetery.

To join us atthe service via livestream, please visit Joy’stribute page on the website of Mount AlexanderFunerals

Castlemaine 5470 5951 KN276895/L

The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful foranadvertiser to showany intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy,race, age,marital status,political or religious belief or activity,industrial activity,parental or carer status physical features,disability,lawful sexual activity/ sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with aperson with oneofthe above characteristics,unless covered by an exception or granted an exemption under the Act. As we couldbe legally liable if we printanunlawful advertisement, we will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. Formore information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission. KN275808

LEATHBRIDGE

Kevin James

05.01.1930 –06.03.2022

Another 12 Lonely Months have passed Imissyou more each day Your ever-loving wifeIrene

KN276886/J

Employment Opportunity

Senior Coordinator (22.5 hours/week)

Macedon Ranges Further Education Centre is looking foradynamic Senior Coordinator Youwillbeworking with oursmall team committed to supporting the local community, developing, and managing our Community and Further Education Centre based in Macedon Ranges,Gisborne

Visit the MRFEC website forall information https://www.mrfec.net.au/

Macedon Ranges Further Education Centre Inc. A0004432s ABN 24 812 980 382 P.O. Box68GISBORNEVictoria, 3437. Phone: (03) 54283799 email: enquiries@mrfec.net.au

Redesdale COMMUNITY MARKET

SundayMarch 10 9am -1pm. Local produce,retro vintage,pre-loved goods,craft. Food stalls sausage sizzle,music, CFAdisplayand raffle

Redesdale Recreation Reserve Oval Stall holderswelcome

KN276873/L

CAR BOOT SALE

Tylden Uniting Church

Monday, March 11, 9am.

Var ious sta lls. Sites available for $20. Enquiries to Glenda 0427 157 622.

MOVING HOUSE MONSTER CLEARANCE SALE, 77 Verekers Ln, Kyneton. Sat. &Sun., 9&10, 8am -8pm. CASH ONLY, Assortment of VY Commodore parts, mags & tyres, pair of front doors for XM -XPFalcon, Rodeo bullbar, cargo barriers, car roof compartment, trailers, assortment of tool boxes, Toro ride-on mower, trailer top, Hyd cranes, slashers, 250mt of eleator cable, Isuzu NPR tip truck, old motor bikes, wrought iron gates, cast iron stoves, camp stoves, railway spikes, old ladders.

FURNITURE: Tables, dressers, lounge chairs, slabs of wood, antique baby essentials, childrens play equipment, stereo stuff, records, bric-a-brac, lots of everything. Too much to mention. Everything must go.

Advertise your pre loved items in the Midland Express and reach over 50,000 readersevery week.

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

Carpentry

MINI DIGGER

• Post holes

• Trenching

• Tree planting

• Driveways

• Levelling

Great for small jobs Ring Greg 0411 409 354

KN276815/L

Exclusive500 ClubatKFNC

For

Bogues looking good

Bill West

Lightly raced three-year-old colt Bogues scored an effortless win at his third race start last week.

From the in-form Liam Howley stable at Macedon Lodge, Bogues bowled along behind leader Early Warning in the 1600m Golden Square Miden Plate at Bendigo, then dashed away in th straight to win by three lengths.

At his previous run Boques finished fourth at Pakenham, after adebut run at Sandown on August 9.

Starting at $3.30, Boques was ridden confidently by Jordan Childs.

“This is what we have been waiting for.

“Bogues won softly and looks destined for bigger things this preparation and beyond,” a pleased Howley commented after the victory.

Kyneton hosts inter-club event

Asplit between croquet clubs in central Victoria afew years ago resulted in neighbouring clubs competing in different regions. With the passage of time, and new players joining the different clubs, the reasons for the split seemed to fade away

Seeing an opportunity to bring the clubs together,Kyneton Croquet Club, with encouragement from Macedon Ranges Croquet Club based in Gisborne, invited all the clubs across central Victoria to an inter-club event on Sunday Teams from eight clubs from Gisborne in the south to Bendigo in the north and Maryborough in the west, met in Kyneton in aspirit of friendly,but serious, competition.

As there is quite adifference in the abilities of the clubs, the competition was held as ahandicap doubles event, giving the weaker players some free strokes when coming up against much better players.

It may have been fortune favouring Kyneton for their initiative, or it may have been the home lawns advantage, but the Kyneton pair of Margaret Parker and Pat Fahy came out on top with a seven hoops to five win over Elizabeth Payne and LynRobinson from Macedon Ranges in the final. Castlemaine finished third.

All players agreed the day was agreat success and there are hopes there may be more comings together in the near future.

Apply now forflying scholarship

Applications for the Kyneton Aero Club flying scholarship 2024 are now open.

The scholarship was first offered in 2023 with aseed donation from the estate of member Colin McAvoy and was subsequently supported by the Kyneton RSL and current club members.

The 2023 scholarship was awarded to Maddie Machell, who has now progressed to fly solo andiscontinuing her training with KAC.

The scholarship is a support program for young people with ademonstrated interest in aviation. It is open to new students and to people who have already begun flight training.

It is open to persons aged between 16and 22 years of age as at March 1, 2024.

The scholarship will pay50 per cent of the cost of each instructional or flying hour, to amaximum total value of $5000.

This value will be provided progressively as the training is undertaken.

Training is based on competency ratherthan hours of study (the RAA Pilot Certificate generally takes between 20-30 flying hours to achieve.)

Once scholarship funds have been consumed, KAC expects the student will continue to pay for training at standard rates.

The scholarship does not pay for KAC student membership, RAAus annual membership and joining fees, Pilots Logbook, headset, or any other training material required.

Applications should be submitted electronically to president@kynetonaeroclub. org (bearing the subject line '2024 Scholarship Application').

For selection criteria see the website kynetonaeroclub. org

Applications close March 31.

(L to R): Invitational runners-up Elizabeth Payne and Lyn Robinson, and winners Pat Fahy and Margaret Parker.

Impressive: Bogues goes to the line with plenty to spare in the Golden Square Hotel Maiden Plate

Photo: Brett Holburt/Racong Photos

KFNC 500 Club members, Ray Wilkinson, Ash Turner, David Butterfield and Keith Pelham.

Male runner of theyear!

KynetonUltramarathon runner Greg Wilson last month took part in the 100km Australian Championships at LakeBurley Griffin in Canberra, where he was presented with some long-awaited awards.

Wilson was acknowledged for his 2022 and 2023 M70 World Age Best Performance for 6Hours (he broke his own 2022 record!) and was also presented with the 2022 CliffYoung Award, which he received last year

The Australian Ultra Runners Association also announced the recipients of the 2023 Annual Awards.

Wilson has the new Australian M70 records for 200km and 48hr, 100 miles and 24hr,plus anew M70 World Bestage record for 6hr at the Southern Sydney Track Ultra.

These achievements contributed to Greg Wilson being announced as the Australian Ultra Runners Association ‘Male Runner Of The Year -2023’.

The latest awards will be presented to Wilson at the 24 Hour Asian Oceania Championships in Canberra in April.

Rugby hiccup

Ongoing momentum to enable the recently formed Macedon Ranges Rugby Union Club to get teams on the ground has come to an unscheduled halt.

“As we embarked on this journey,we were fullyaward of the challenges ahead,” club vice-president TimSullivan told the Express

“However,wehave encountered unexpected difficulties with the Victorian Rugby Union,” he explained.

Completion of the application process have been hindered, despite previous assurances from the VRU.

“Consequently,we are currently awaiting aresolution from their end.”

Sullivan said in light of these circumstances, Macedon Rugby had decided totemporarily suspend all training activitiesuntil the issues with the VRU were adequately addressed.

“Webelieve this is anecessary step toensure the integrity and success of our operations moving forward.”

The vice-president said the unwavering support of many locals was truly appreciated by the club.

He said the club was trying to have the issue with the peak body resolved promptly

“The community we are building is truly remarkable, and we eagerly anticipatethe full realisation of our collective endeavours,” Sullivan concluded.

Town &District

GOLF results

CASTLEMAINE

An impressive +7 produced overall and B-grade wins for Bryan Fitzgerald (17), with young gun Nic Simpson (18) in second spot on +3 in the par event on Saturday

Elevated to A-grade, Gavin Lang (8) took grade honours with +3, from Peter Verlaan (14) on +2.

There were 23 birdies carded, with Lang, Leigh Campbell, Jason Thompson, Tony Strong, Ian Gilmore and Ron Prendergast each landing two.

NTP honours went to Megan Carroll and Kan Clack.

In the morning nine holes, George Gray again demonstrated his skills with an impressive 19 points, one clear of Jo Ralston.

GISBORNE

Bandits were out and about on Saturday with Paul Farina winning the Monthly Cup on acountback from another C-grader,Shaun Cedelland. Both had nett 66s.

Former president Paul Treloar won A-grade with anett 71, and Nick Radecki’s nett 68 was the best in B-grade.

The money hole, worth $150, was won by another ‘bandit’ in Coey Hills, who will use the money to buy aticket to Sound of Music

Bandit success extended to Gary Dickson snagging ahole-in-one on the 16th.

Helen Flentje won the women’smonthly medal and round 3ofthe silver spoon with anett 70, and Angela Cordell topped A-grade with anett 73.

Tomorrow (Wednesday) the women will hold their annual Gala Day with both local and visiting teams of four competing, followed by ajovial lunch.

Funds raised will be donated to the Macedon Ranges Suicide Prevention Action Group.

KYNETON

The Palmer,Stevens &Rennick sponsored monthly medal on Saturday produced some top scores.

Barry Murphy shot his age for the second week in arow with 79-14-65 to top B-grade from Neil Watts88-18-70.

Pete Robbins 75-7-68 took out A-grade

from Ross Foeman 82-12-70.

However,the medal went to C-grader Bob Bennett 84-20-64, who finished ahead of Barry Keane 90-23-67.

Robyn MacRae led in the ladies with 101-26-75, from Denise Muphy 94-16-78.

NTPs were Jonathan Beachey (also super pin), Mat Hodgkiss, Frank Jugovic, David Mooe, Connor Munro and Denise Murphy

In Wednesday’sstableford, David Austin (18) and Bary Keane (25) both excelled with 40 points, the former winning on acountback.

Ladies –Teaote Davies (21) 36 points, one clear of Rachael McAndrew (35).

Three grades were in play last Tuesday, with Vicki Nettleton (21) shining with 41 points in A-grade, from Julie Harris (18) on 37.

Bron Dwyer (30) topped B-grade with 34, from Marg Scoble (25) on 33, and Julie McKellar (33) had 35 to finish ahead of Moira Greenwood (39) with 33.

Dot Greenway (40) took out the ninehole comp. With 19 points, and Harris, McKellar,Lois Scott and Terry Morley were the NTP winners.

Next Monday (Labour Day long weekend) there will be afour-person Ambrose –9am for10am hit-off.

LANCEFIELD

For not the first time in recent weeks one of the fairer sex won overall in the Saturday competition.

This time it was former club champion Di Brennan who returned an excellent 9627-75 which saw her lead the field.

On anormal non-defined day Di woud have taken out the ‘trophy’ after beating Steve Gilbert 91-22-69 on acountback.

Gilbert was the monthly medal winner for March, and Malcolm Ive came in third with 93-23-70.

Due to hot weather last Wednesday, an executive decision was made and all ladies laying on the day headed to the Lost Watering Hole for lunch and refreshments.

Knockout match play winners were Anne Robinson 5/4 over Di Brennan, and Jennie Vennell 3/2 from Wendy Nicholas.

Tuesday stableford: Barry Flentja (21) 43 points, from Steve Gilbert (21)40, and Dean Budde (20) on 39.

MOUNT MACEDON

The four-person Gold Plate stableford on Saturday was one of the club’smajor events.

And what afinish it was with two teams tied on 104points (best three combined scores).

A. Kincaid, N. Vicary,K.Taylor and H. Phillips edged out R. Beatson, T. Bonello, P. Palmer and I. Flannery.Nick Vicary had the day’sbest individual score of 38 points. The regular end of month teams’ event was athree-person Irish stableford on Wednesday Awarm welcome to newest member Chris Martin (No, not the Cold Play guy) who completed his first card.

The runaway winners with 86 points wee P. Burows, T. O’Connell and K. Freestone with 86 points, from M. Hoiles, T. Iger and N. Narkin on 73

ROMSEY

Saturday’sstableford incorporated the second round of the silverspoon, with several players able to post scores well under their handicaps.

The whole course had weathered the hot week well, with the benefits of Santa Ana couch very apparent.

Davey Kenney (14) wasthe day’s winner with 42 points, from Zac Scales 39, and Simon Donovan (10) 36.

Bob McLennan, Mal Mottram and Dylan Harris were NTPs.

David Jones was last Wednesday’s winner with 90-21-69, from Chris Manktelow 103-31-72 and Darlene Baker 92-19-73.

Baker’snett 73 earned the women’s monthly medal by astroke from Jenny Hartley,with Beyl Cole in third place.

Robert McDonald was the best putter (29), and Cole and Sherif Abdel-Sayed claimed NTPs.

TRENTHAM

The long markers really made their presence felt in the monthly medal event on Saturday

Overall winner Rob Loxton fired 94-3262, Paul Robinson 91-29-61, and Mervyn Harvey 90-27-63.

John Smithwick 90-27-63 topped the A-graders, and James Coyle 87-18-69 went home with the B-grade award.

The ladies turned out for astableford round.

Alex Everaud (17)was the overall and A-grade winner,while Sian Harding (28) was the best of the B-graders.

WOODEND

There was atie for the monthly medal on Saturday between president Chris Holliday 77-14-63 and Kevin Jones 87-2463. The play-offfor the February medal went to Jaryd Kilty 79-11-68 from Wayne Stott 82-11-71.

Holliday won B-grade, Jones C-grade, and A-gradewent to Pop Long with 75-1065. In Tuesday’sstableford TajWarren (8) finished with afine 40 points, four clear of the field.

Glenn Wright (4) had 20points in the afternoon nine holes, with Nyassa Payne runner-up on 19.

Kyneton’s Barry Murphy shot his age for the second week in arow.

Mount Macedon’s A. Kincaid, K. Taylor, P. Palmer and T. Bonello were hard to separate on Satuday’s scoreboard, and equally had to separate fom the Gold Plate.

Greg Wilson is pictured with AURA president Simone Hayes.

Bill West

No surprise, it’sRomsey versus Kyneton Golf in the Highlands area division 1bowls pennant grand final for the 2023-2024 season.

These two combatants finished first and second on the ladder,and are set for areal showdown in the grand final to be played at Lancefield Bowling Club this Sunday,March 10.

Romsey is chasing its first ever top grade (division 1) premiership, while reigning premier Kyneton Golf is primed to make another bid to add to its illustrious grand final winning record.

This Saturday,Kyneton will host the division 2grand final –also between Romsey and Kyneton Golf –and the division 3grand final between Lancefield and Gisborne(3).

The Saturday –Sunday grand finals promise to provide afitting finale to the Highlands Saturday pennant season.

Highlands match committee chair,JohnCoates, confirmed the Kyneton and Lancefield venues for the grand finals yesterday

There was plenty of speculation on the likely venue for the division 1grand final, and Lancefield is thrilled to be chosen for the big occasion on Sunday

Renowned turf consultant Craig Vincent will be working hard to ensure the Kyneton and Lancefield greens are in peak condition for the grand finals.

First and second semi-finals in all divisions were completed last Saturday,and preliminary finals took place at Kyneton on Sunday.There were no real surprise outcomes, with favourable weather conditions on both days.

ROMSEY READY

“We’re not getting ahead of ourselves,” Romsey coach Garry Templar said after the Redbacks defeated Kyneton Golf by 18 shots in the second semi-final on Saturday Romsey earned the home semi-final by finishing on top of the ladder “I’m glad, after four years in finals, we finally crackedit foragood win.

“Kyneton Golf is avery good, competitive side, but we are certainly ready for Sunday’sgrand final,” Templar said. With just three shots the difference at the halfway break, the coach said the fightback by Matt Brundell’srink against Adrian Plowman was very important in the second stanza This helped take the pressure offasthe other rinks with Aaron Young and Cam Austin in charge continued to play well, with the overall lead extended to secure a64-46 victory Young won by 14 shots against Ray Wilkinson, and Austin finished 12 ahead of Toby Barker

PORTS WRAP SP

Romsey vGolffor bowlsglory

Among the spectators supporting Romsey was Moonee Valley Premier League player Nathan Lynch (Templar’s grandson) who said he was impressed by the standard; Lynch is playing in the Premier League grand final.

Romsey recruited strongly in the lead-up to this season, and the chance to make history and be part of Romsey’s first-ever division 1premiership team is there on Sunday

Last season, Romsey Cricket Club broke a40-year premiership drought, and community support for the Redbacks should be at avery high level on Sunday.Expect alarge crowd at Lancefield Park.

GOLF IN FORM

Kyneton Golf can be likened to alarge close-knit family, with an abundance of very experienced quality players who can rise to the occasion when it matters. Some have enjoyed considerable success at other clubs.

Golf will be happy to be back on agrass surface instead of synthetic, and in the last home and away round Golf won at Lancefield by 38 shots.

In the preliminary final on Sunday,Golf defeated archrival Kyneton by 12 shots and the big occasion should not worry them.

“Since 2000, we’ve been apretty successful club,” long-time Golf secretary John Trounce said, referring to a multitude of premierships and finals successes across the board.

“We’re achance of getting adouble at the weekend,” Trounce said, though he felt Romsey was entitled to go into the division 1grand final as favourite.

Kyneton Golf’sdivision 2side won the knockout first semi-final against Gisborne by 13 shots, then held offa strong challenge by Kilmore in the preliminary final.

Romsey’sdivision 2side thrashed Kilmore 81-43 in a one-sided second semi-final.

In division 3, top side Lancefield struggled initially at home to Gisborne(3) in the second semi-final as the visitors soon opened up a20-shot margin.

By the tea break it was one shot the difference, and on resumption the Tigers gained multiple numbers across the board, eventually winning by 14 shots. Keith Webb’srink staged ahuge comeback to win 31-15.

Gisborne(3) regrouped on Sunday,defeating Romsey by 16 shots, with the Redbacks coming offanall fours up victory over Kilmore.

The Ballarat-Highlands board, headed by Ian Guymer, and the Highlands area match committee wish the grand finalists well for their matches.

ALL THE SCORES

Scores from Highlands area semi-finals and preliminary finals matches over the weekend were:

Division 1second semi-final –Romsey 64 dKyneton

Golf 46: M. Brundell 15 lost to A. Plowman 23, C. Austin 22 dA.Barker 10, A. Young 27 dR.Wilkinson 13. First semi-final –Kyneton 68 dGisborne 46: M. Smoljo 19 dP Williams 15, N. Jamieson 26 dT.Wylie 16, Ant. Mathison 23 dA.Higgins 15.

Division 2second semi –Romsey 81 dKilmore 43: J. Beaumont 23 dM.Johnson 22, G. Marshall 26 dA.Langdon 10,S Mayger34 dL Hodgson 11

First semi-final –Kyneton Golf 60 dGisborne 47: J. Trounce 12 losttoR.Newton 16, R. Buckley 24 dB.Wylie 15,C.Scott 24 dK.Jarred 16.

Division 3second semi-final –Lancefield 74 dGisborne(3) 60: K. Webb 31 dT.Woodlock15, G. Stewart 17 lost to C.Butterley 25, P. Shannon 26 dV.Cyrulo20. First semi-final –Kilmore 40 losttoRomsey 65: A. Jowett 18 lost to C. Dean 22, C. Wight 14 losttoJ.Boyce 28, D. Boyd14 lost to M. Gilligan 15. :

PRELIMINARYFINALS

Division 1: Kyneton Golf 63 dKyneton51: A. Plowman 19 drew with Ant. Mathison 19, A. Barker 20 dM.Smoljo 17; R. Wilkinson 24 dN.Jamieson 15.

Division 2: Kilmore 49 lost to Kyneton Golf 56: M. Johnson 17 dC.Scott 16, A. Langdon 16 lost to J. Trounce 20, L. Hodgson 16 lost to .Buckley 20.

Division 3: T. Woodlock 18 lost to M. Gilligan 9, C. Butterley 25 dC.Dean 14, V. Cyrulo 20 dJ.Boyce 14.

Grand finals

Highlands midweek bowls grand finals will be played at Kyneton from 10.15 today (Tuesday).

In division 1, the strong Gisborne play side Romsey in arepeat of the second semi-final

The division 2grand final is between Broadford and Woodend, and Romsey play Diggers Rest in division 3. In the three preliminary finals last Tuesday,only one was close.

Division 1: Romsey 60 dKilmore 42: S.Mayger 20 d P. Skehan 16, C. Austin 24 dS.Hawkless 11,G.Templar 16 dD.Noonan 15.

Division 2: Woodend 56 dGisborne 51: N.Bickerdyke 25 dV.Noble 17, G. Symons 7losttoR.Newton 21, T. Lennie 24 dD.Wesney 13.

Division 3: Diggers Rest 45 dMacedon 19: T. Odgers 26 dC.Coogan 10, J. Higgins 19 dB.San 9.

Colin “you bowl better on Sundays” Schmidt was in fine form for Kyneton Golf in the preliminary final against Kyneton on Sunday.

Redbacks happy: Pictured after their second semi-final victory are (from left) coach Garry Templar, Aaron Young, Greg ‘Squizzy’ Taylor and Cam Austin.

Batsmen notchupcenturies

Castlemaine District Cricket Association sides wrapped up their final rounds last Saturday before finals get under way this weekend.

AGrade and AReserve sides completed day two of Round 12 clashes, BGrade contested one-day matches in Round 14 and CGrade (Under 16) played day two of their Round 9fixture.

Highlights of the round were Maiden Gully AReserve batsman William Vallely's124 and Guildford AGrader DS Wijemanna's122 with the bat. Newstead BGraders Hilton Hazeltine 109 (retired not out) and Ben Christmas 101 (retired not out) also smashed out acentury each to help their side to awin over Guildford. Best with the ball were Newstead A Reserve bowler Terry Chapman with 6-14 and Barkers Creek AReserve'sNoah Thompson 6-38.

The final of the Castlemaine District Cricket Association T20 series was played on February 22 with Newstead 4-188 defeating Maiden Gully Lions 10-119 in front of their home crowd to claim the title.

Newstead'sBen Walter led the way with 77 runs off37balls, Kris Walter made 50 runs off45balls, Sam Johnston 41 off22 balls. Best with the ball for the Roos were Sam Winnard 3-26 and Louis Chapman 3-20. Best for Maiden Gully were Brayden Stepien 23 and Brett Haw 23.

The Women'scompetition has already wound up their home and away season and will battle out their first finals this Friday evening March 8with top-of-the-table Newstead to host Hepburn in Semi Final 1from 6pm and second-placed Guildford to welcome Barkers Creek in Semi Final 2 from 6pm.

The weekend'sresults were as follows:

AGrade Castlemaine United made 9-192 defeated Maiden Gully Lions 10-176 (Tim Bubb 76, Leo James 46; Bailey McMurtrie

4-18, Charlie Warren 3-30).

Barkers Creek 9-252 lost to Guildford

5-253 (DS Wijemanna 122, Elliott Massina 58, Joshua Eastley 19 not out; Lewis Stabler 2-58, Nash Robinson 2-59).

Muckleford 10-99 lost to Newstead 8-236 (Rhys Smith 55 retired not out, Ian Garsed 47, Henry Phoenix 38, Bradley Richardson 24, Samuel Winnard 20; John Watson 2-38, Jeremy Priest 2-67).

In the AGrade Semi Finals this weekend, March 9and 10, Guildford play Maiden Gully Lions at the Camp Reserve and Barkers Creek host Newstead.

AReserve

Barkers Creek 10-45 &10-85 (Sean Grant 17, Jed Denahy 11/Zachary Thompson 21, Callum De Bono 18, Sean Grant 16; Oliver Daldy 3-1, William Garsed 2-9, Chris Elderfield 2-9, Keelan Gardner 2-19/ Terry Chapman 6-14, Keelan Gardner 2-23) lost to Newstead 10-170 (Chris Elderfield 81 not out, Terry Chapman 20, Heath Lawrence 18; Noah Thompson 6-38, Rick Jones 2-25).

North Castlemaine 6-224 defeated Castlemaine United 10-91 &4-87 (Samantha Brasher 12, Clinton Aldridge 12, Mokshara Wathsaranga Thilakasiri 11,Josh Maher 10; Andrew Ferres 3-25, Ben Holden 3-43).

Muckleford 10-170 &4-55 lost to Maiden Gully Lions 5-251 (William Vallely 124, Steve Burleigh 62, Brodie Hogan 46; Neville Cooper 2-28).

Guildford 10-114 (Hadley Bassett 66, Tyson Williams 24, Adrian Parson 10; Steve Learmonth 4-45, Leigh Bennett 2-3, Andrew Young 2-5) lost to Taradale 10-207 (Lachlan Maltby 65, Luke Cameron 22, Brock Fletcher 20, Leigh Bennett 18, Daniel Maerz 18; Angus Mychajlyszyn 4-31, Hadley Bassett 3-57, Samuel Banko 2-13).

Harcourt had the bye.

In Semi Final 1this weekend, March 9and 10, Taradale vMaiden Gully Lions venue TBC and in Semi Final 2North

Castlemaine vHarcourt venue TBC. BGrade

Guildford 9-150 (Fill-in 54 not out, Chris Richards 34, Jarryd Moore 19; Robert Cook 4-16, Gerald Chapman 3-33) lost to Newstead 2-282 (Hilton Hazeltine 109 retired not out, Ben Christmas 101 retired not out, Aaron Comte 19, Ciaran Gardner 18 not out, Scott Carmichael 14).

Campbells Creek Colts 5-142 (Graeme Beith 72 not out, Oliver Scholes 34 not out; Alec Purdon 3-17, Kym Szegedi 2-23) defeated Taradale 10-141 (Mackenzie Stone 28, Andrew Vance 28, Kym Szegedi 24, Brad Maltby24not out; Tayler Walsh 3-22, James Collie 2-15, Matthew Stahl 2-37).

Hepburn 10-119 (Nathaniel Lowe 39, Lindsay Olver 19, Des Leunig 15not out; Patrick Brasher 3-7, Emma Smolak 2-14, Charles Baker 2-26) accounted for Castlemaine United Blue 9-115 (AdamSmolak 55, Darren Baker 24; Kenny Cummings 3-20, Mitchell Yanner 2-21).

Heathcote 10-115 (RhysAshen25, James Baker 23, TimGleeson 20; Ben Gibbs 3-14, Christopher Cassidy 3-24, Scott Foxall 2-6) drew with Harcourt 9-115 (Christopher Cassidy 32, Zac Nicholson 24 not out, Mason Chamberlain 22; Kyle Seidel 3-12, RhysAshen2-18).

Castlemaine United Gold and Muckleford had the bye.

In the Semi Finals this Saturday March 9Hepburn vCampbells Creek Colts venue TBC andHeathcote host Harcourt at Barrack Reserve.

CGrade (Under 16)

Carisbrook 8-170 defeated Muckleford 9-138 (AihenTurner 35, Seth Gross 22, Chloe Butcher 21, Francis Walls 14, Zavier Turner 10; Cooper Polinelli 2-11).

Colts Phelans 5-158 lost to Castlemaine United Blue5-176 (Brett Coon 51 retired not out, Charlie Erickson 34, Hunter Kurzke 15, Benji Featherston 14, Tate Williams 13; Thomas Gordon 2-11, Alfred Chaffey 2-15).

Maryborough 5-211(Lachlan Condie 53 retired not out, Oliver Cassidy 47 not out, Lachlan Roche 31, Jaxon Carmody 30 not out) defeated Castlemaine United Gold 6-125 (Louis Parsons 47 not out,Gabriel O'Sullivan 20, Charlie Cordy 13, Cohen Coulthard 13).

Barkers Creek/Campbells Creek 10-96 lost to Harcourt 6-196 (Darcy McLachlan 46 not out, Ebony Penny 33, Fletcher McAinch 27, Kale Waddington 24, Mason Chamberlain 21, Koby Simmons 14 not out; Michael Miles 2-3).

Newstead 10-89 lost to North Castlemaine/Guildford 1-173 (Max Matheson 38 retired not out, Zac Hinck 35 retired not out, Levi Bruce 28 retired not out, Benjamin Cue 23 retired not out, James Anderson 21 not out).

In Semi Finals this weekend, March 9and 10, Maryborough hosts North Castlemaine/ Guildford at Princes Park Maryborough and Harcourt welcomes Castlemaine United Blue.

Macedon premiers

The first final of the Gisborne District Cricket Association’scurrent season was played on Friday evening.

Macedon defeated Gisborne in the Under 18s girls’ competition.

The Cats scored 7/93 (C. Shaw 32 n.o., E. Patterson-Lade 20 n.o. –E.Neissen 2-4, B. Holt 2-18, H. Brewer 2-20).

In reply,Gisborne was dismissed for 66. (H. Brewer 20 –L.Bragalia 2-9, N. Harbinson 2-19).

Holly Brewer (Gisborne) received the Player of the Match award.

Winners are grinners. The successful Newstead T20 side included (Back) Cameron Hepburn, Chris Elderfield, Sam Winnard, Sam Johnston, Kris Walter, Joe Park, Louis Chapman (Front) Sam Reece, Ben Walter, Rhys Smith (Captain), Ciaran Gardner and Faolan Gardner.

Finals places still notset

One Saturday of McIntyre 1sts cricket remains before the knockout semi-finals, and precisely where teams will finish in the top four are still uncertain. Quite remarkable so late in the season.

Gisborne and Romsey are locked in an agonising tussle for top spot, with Sunbury United favoured to finish third, and fourth spot atoss-up between Sunbury Kangaroos and Woodend.

Last Saturday,Woodend knuckled down and scored 9/268 from 80 overs at home to powerhouse Gisborne to stay ‘alive’.

Can the Woodsmen find away to inflict the first defeat of the season on the Dragons?

They will be desperate to dismiss talented run machines Riley and Jarryd Vernon cheaply,but this is easier said than done.

Gisborne, without opener Warren Kelly,will be trying to stay in top knowing reigning premiers Romsey are breathing down their neck.

Before this match, just 0.4 points separated Gisborne and Romsey,both unbeaten so far

Woodend batters made ahandy start with seven fours coming quickly from Andrew Cullen before he was dismissed for 34.

Fortunes ebbed and flowed, with young Harry Lawson top scoring with 83, skipper Marcus Stewart run out for apatient 32, and Hamish McDonald slamming abetter than arun a ball 56.

The Vernons both bowled 20 overs at quite an economical rate, with Riley having the best figures of 3-51.

CATCHES COSTLY

Romsey skipper Ben Waywas understandably less than enthused over his side’sbowling, and more so the uncharacteristic fielding, with seven chances going down as bottom side Diggers Rest/Bulla compiled 222 from 68.4 overs. Wickets were shared.

Attacking batter Jason Reid led the way with 76, and Romsey’sopeners Milne and Jed Patterson survived to stumps and compiled avaluable 70 runs as well to set the base for avery big tally this Saturday

Captain-coach Ben Waywants the Redbacks to ensure they win after afright in the previous round, and he also anticipates abig push for bonus points.

Macedon is well on the way towards afinal round victory, needing just 59 runs with nine wickets in hand to outpoint Rupertswood.

Sunbury United finished up with 9/266 c.c. onthe board after ashaky start, and will be backing the bowlers to keep the Kangaroos at bay

There were some easy victories across other grades, with one-day encounters and semi-finals in the thee Jensen Shield sections, as well as Club North and Club South.

The exception was an exciting tie in McIntyre 2nds, with Woodend and Gisborne each compiling 194.

In Jensen 3rds, Kyneton batters failed badly atTrentham, with just 54 runs from 29.4 overs, with Trentham nowinthe grand final against aformidable MeltonSouth.

NOLTE SHINES

Malmsbury had two sides in Club North semi-finals, with David Nolte’ssterlingall-roundperformance ensuring the Green side had an easy victory over Broadford.

Malmsbury Gold was outplayed at Hanging Rock, with ‘The Rock’ brigade after another flag.

Lancefield, despite missing the finals, showed considerable promisefor the future.

Good luck to all teamsthat make the finals.

Game off–two face tribunal

Woodend Cricket Club could win apremiership this season without agrandfinal being played.

This is one possible scenario that may arise following the abandonment of amatch onSaturday,with two players reported to face the tribunal.

Woodend advanced to the Club South grand final by defeating Sunbury United byseven runsinatight semi-final.

It was the other semi-final that became ataking point in cricket circles, with the result posted online as ‘Game Abandoned’. Gisborne District Cricket Association secretary,Rob McIntyre, confirmed “there was an incident between two play-

ers” in the St Anthony’sversus Eynesbury semi-final. He said Eynesbury decided to leave the ground “as they felt it was not safe to continue”.

At that stage Eynesbury was 2/34, chasing 190 for victory McIntyre said an independent club umpire had reported the two players, and the case would go to the tribunal.

The tribunal will be asked to decide if the match result is to be awarded to either team, or if the match should be declared null andvoid.

The secretary said that if the null and void option was adopted, Woodend would then be declared premiers.

GDCA scores

Progressive scores and results from Gisborne District Cricket Association matches on Saturday were:

McIntyre Cup 1sts: Woodend 9/268 c.c. (H. Lawson 83, H. McDonald 52, A. Cullen 34, M. Stewart 32 –R.Vernon 3-51); Romsey 0/70 v Diggers Rest/Bulla 222 (J. Reid 76, J. Crosland 44, D. Rodger 24, N. Crosland 23); Rupertswood 134 (J. Swallow 52, A. Bond 21–T.Berzins 3-22, M. Den Dryver 3-35) vMacedon 1/76 (C. Howlett 38 n.o., A.Grobler 36 n.o.); Sunbury nited 266 (D. Edwards 75, S. Fogarty 75, U. Fernando 59 M. Fox 4-58,J.King 3-37) vSunbury Kangaroos.

Johnstone 1sts: Wallan 7/181c.c. (S. Whittingham 57, J. Mifsud 51, M. Clayton 28 –R.Nolan 3-39) lost to Broadford 7/185 (Nolan 53, J. Nolan 41, J. Ingham 31 –C.Fowler 3-36); Eynesbury 9/192 c.c. (B. Shearson 63, S.Collins 33, T. Francis 23) dRiddell 95 (H. Fisher 25 –Collins 3-20, J. Francis 3-36); Aintree 201 (G. Singh 48, R. Sharma 36, G. Singh 32 –B.Watson 4-29) d East Sunbury 6/177 (L. Williams 55, L. Wilkins 41 n.o., S. Paton 38 –H.Singh 3-50).

McIntyre 2nds: Woodend 5/194 c.c. (D. Robinson 63, K. Else54, A. Cavric 27) tied with Gisborne 9/194 (A. Shore 65, J. Watson 48,D. Martin 27 n.o. –J.McBridge 4-17, B. Thompson 3-31; Macedon 98 (G. YowYeh 20, M. Wall 17, T. Dawe 17 –J.Honner 3-20) lost to Rupertswood 1/99 (T George 59 n.o.,W.Honner 25 n.o.); Diggers Rest/ Bulla 71 (J. Thorsen 4-12, D. Jewell 3-13) lost to Romsey 3/74 (M. Richardson 26, M. Burkett 23); Sunbury United 5/277 c.c. (L. Watts116, L. Sherlock 80, A. Billinghurst 56 n.o.) dSunbury Kangaroos 135 (B. Fleming 32, N. Hole 27 n.o. –C. Strods 3-26).

Johnstone 2nds: Aintree 8/263 c.c. (P.Brar 104, C. Kalsi 27, B.Vasudevan 26) dEast Sunbury 129 (J. Williams 24, M. Williams 23); Rupertswood 7/223 c.c. (J. Hayward 43, A. Pizaro 40 n.o., J. Howell 34 –Z.Ryan3-32) dKilmore 156 (S. Partridge 42, R. Parkinson 33 –Pizaro 3-3); Wallan 93 (A. Moore 32 –J.Hibbins 4-27, B. Fleming 3-9) lost to Broadford 8/94 (J.Bradshaw 20).; Riddell 5/168 (M.Day 41, M. Lloyd 39, O. Arthur 32) lost to Eynesbury 2/169 (C. Price 86 n.o., M. McMullen 55 n.o.

Jensen 1sts semi-finals: Aintree 8/270 c.c. (R. Sandhu 64, G. Sohal 53, S. Rawat 42– J. Regan 3-36) dLancefield 7/252 (Regan 76, M. Caton 53, H. Lehner 42 n.o.); Melton South 89 (G. Grewel 3-10, Z. Giblett 3-27) lost to St Anthonys 4-90 (Giblet 73 n.o. –J.Lewer 4-12).

Jensen 2nds semi-finals: Macedon 8/176 c.c (R. Jaros 31, X. Smitten 31, S.McCann29– D. Singh5-29)lost toSunbury 4/180 (D. Stewart 74, A. Riggio 37, E. Hilderbrand 32 n.o.); Melton Centrals 150 (M.Murphy 50, M. Rahman 45– L. Mallia-McKenzie 5-20) lost to Rupertswood 6/151 (T.Hayes 34, A. Sutherland 28).

Jensen 3rds semi-finals: Kyneton 9/54 --J Cowell 3-13) losttoTrentham 4/56 (J. Shaw 19 n.o., G. Thomson 17); Melton South 5/278 c.c. (K. Rajendren 103, M. Garwood 63, M. Porrtt 43—D. Mallia-Hogan 3-48, T. Bannan 2-19) dLancefield 142 (M. Mouser 30, H. Parks 24, N. Johnson 23 –S. Dhamija 3-12, L. Bielby 3-30).

Club North semi-finals: Broadford 7/145 c.c.(E. Mills 42, C. Still 32 –B.Terbeeke 4-34, D. Nolte 3-30) lost to Malmsbury Green 2/148 (Nolte 67 n.o., R. De Podolinsky 64 ret; Hanging Rock 9/166 c.c. (J. Milsom 47, P. Connor 42 –J.Sundblom 3-47) dMalmsbury Gold 129 (B. McCutcheon 37, J. Mooney 34 –M.Fisher 23, Milsom 3-23)

Club South semi-finals: Woodend 162 (A. Gray 62, J. Gray 39 –G. Ilson 3-23, M. Anderson 3-30) dSunbury United 7/155 (D. George 43, A. Drummond 30); St Anthony’s189 (N. Khan 82, J. Hassan 33, V. Soundararajan 33—M. Balding 5-11) v Eynesbury 2-34 (7 overs). Game abandoned.

Bill West

Woodend batsman Dan Eastley in McIntyre 1sts action at home against Gisborne on Saturday.

Gisborne bowler Jay King in action against Woodend in McIntyre Ist action on Saturday.

A 3 B 2 C 3

View Wednesday6th March 5:00pm

ForSale $999,000 -$1,098,900 Web rh.com.au/kyneton

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

16 Lauriston Street, Kyneton

When Location Counts

•The home is acream brickveneer residencebuiltonasolid blue stone foundation. Go inside and you arein forasurprise-This home has the WOW factor.Beautifully renovated with lots of natural light to the north-facing, well-proportioned front rooms, stunning original polished hardwood floors, and original cornicing honouring historical charm and features.

A 4 B 1 C 2

View Saturday 9thMarch 11:00am

PRICE DROP! $750,000 Web rh.com.au/kyneton

39 Jennings Street, Kyneton

IRIS HOUSE -CIRCA 1870 -Relocation SaleHuge PriceReduction!

•This housewillsurprise. This beautifully positioned 4bedroom family home was builtin1870. Realisticallypriced and beautifully positioned, just astones throw from Piper Street shopping precinct and market and the main streetofKyneton. 55 minute rail commutetoMelbourne.

Judith Stevens 0438 683484 judith.stevens@kyneton.rh.com.au

Kyneton 5422 2678 rh.com.au/kyneton

Gisborne 5428 4007 rh.com.au/gisborne

Sunbury97446334 rh.com.au/sunbury

DiggersRest87409666 rh.com.au/diggersrest