Gisborne Gazette October 2021 by Gisborne Gazette

Gazette

serving the southern macedon ranges

Chopper called in to help cleanup

Logs and branches were collected by helicopter from properties on Alton Road, Mount Macedon, in September as part of privately organised cleanup works from the June storms.

The complexity and size of the clean-up task was on full view and at times spectacular.

Over three days fallen trees and branches were extracted from steep terrain and whisked safely to a collection spot.

pages 8-9

HOME PAGE

It’s hard to believe clean up from the June storms is still happening, but it is, and as Chris Fleming’s striking photo on this month’s cover highlights, some tasks are very complex and require outside help. Storm recovery updates from Council and Parks Victoria on pages 8 and 9 outline the progress made and support services available to residents still with storm damage on their property.

Very exciting, our beautiful area is set to feature in definitely one, and possibly two, television series: La Brea, an American NBC production, just hit the small screen in the US, and Australia’s Channel Nine has bought a property in South Gisborne for a potential series of The Block. Details on pages 3 and 4.

Unfortunately, the latest lockdown brought an early end to the football and netball season, but at least training, games and club activities could still be held over many months this year. Macedon Football and Netball Club president Andrew Dick thanks the many people who made this possible at local clubs in his ‘We salute you’ article on page 31.

We have two local history features this month: an excerpt from the memoirs of legendary stockman Harry Peck (born in Gisborne in 1860) on pages 1819 and a celebration of Gisborne Golf Club reaching 100 years on pages 20-21.

Finally, with vaccination rates in the state steadily climbing towards the 80% fully vaccinated level that the government has said will unlock many more freedoms, it’s time to look forward to the return of more pre-COVID activities. Hopefully, the variety of club reports in the Gazette will inspire many readers to get involved in our community in a new way.

Happy reading,

Gazette at Large

Corinne Shaddock

Macedon-Woodend Venturers made a trip to Falls Creek in late September and took along a Gazette for some local catching up.

For Venturers report, see Scouting on page 30

GREAT Gisborne Gazette

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The Gazette is supported by Macedon Ranges Shire Council.

A MINUTE WITH MAXINE

Maree and John Clarke have been delivering the Gazette for five years.

Both were born in the western suburbs of Melbourne and they were married in 1966 in West Footscray. John’s career was in retail and Maree was initially a private secretary then an air hostess for TAA. They have a daughter and a son and five grandchildren.

After living in Keilor, they moved to a 30-acre property in Lancefield and after 16 years built a home in Gisborne. They have lived in Gisborne for 27 years.

John retired in 2003 and enjoys painting and gardening and is a supporter of the Melbourne Storm rugby league team.

Maree is a volunteer at the Gisborne Foodbank once a month and enjoys reading, sudoku, movies and going to the theatre. Her passion is tennis and she has spent many enjoyable hours playing in Melbourne and the Macedon Ranges.

They are members of the Gisborne Uniting Church and Maree helps out where needed on a regular basis.

Mt Macedon: The Trading Post Macedon: Post Office and United Service

Station on Black Forest Drive

New Gisborne: Cafe at 3 Ladd Road

Riddells Creek: Newsagency Woodend: Coles supermarket

Over the years, they have visited approximately 35 countries, interested in the history of the many places. Maree’s favourite destination is Spain and John’s is Venice.

They describe themselves as a “country couple” and I would add ‘lovely and friendly’ to the sentence. Maxine Barker

Maree and John Clarke

US show films in the Ranges

Hollywood hit Macedon on Friday September 17 when scenes of a new American television series, La Brea, were shot at the Res.

The north-eastern side of the Nursery Lake was transformed into an American camping ground complete with park sign, pine needles underfoot and a US highway patrol car with rangers in distinctive blue uniform.

Filming of the 10-part Universal Television series began around the region in May and finished on September 18 at Hesket.

Macedon local Naomi Cleaver has been part of the production team and said the filming and other work in Victoria will have injected millions into the state's economy over the past six months.

A member of the production support team (who by chance grew up in Gisborne and fondly remembered swimming in Jacksons Creek as a boy) said the effort run by NBC was well organised and comprehensive, with four COVID officers including two nurses on site at all times to ensure protocols were met.

He also said the food, available free to crew throughout shifts, was plentiful and top notch resulting in his putting on a few extra kilos for

the cause.

La Brea is set to premiere on American free-to-air channel NBC on September 28 and will hopefully be available later this year in Australia.

The beauty of the Macedon Ranges is on show in the trailer released on Youtube on September 15.

Starting the school holidays with a bang, Evy Garner and her cousins packed their fishing rods and spent a day fishing along the Loddon river at Bridgewater. Evy couldn't stop smiling with her lovely redfin.

Fishing is a frequent recreational activity for many and a great way to immerse yourselves in the great outdoors. The Calder Fly Fishing Club (report page 7) has gained immensely in popularity over the past few years.

'When the skeleton in the corner moved, we knew something was up'

The earthquake that shook us all on September 22 is believed to be the strongest experienced in eastern Australia since white settlement, recorded at 5.9 on the Richter scale.

A Gisborne osteopath was not too concerned when a patient asked "Is this table moving?" but when the skeleton in the corner moved, they realised something was up.

While it is unusual to feel tremors in the local region, it is not unprecedented. Reports of a strong tremor emerged in 1855, and again about 12 years later.

In 1855 a Gisborne resident, former Royal Navy man George Harrison, described what he experienced in a letter to the Melbourne Argus "Dear Sir – At 2.52 a.m. of this day [17 September 1855] I was awoken by a smart shock of an earthquake. The motion was not a heaving one, but simply a tremor or violent shaking, and continued from 30 to 40 seconds.

My cottage is of wood, plastered, and in bad repair. The shock has cracked the ceiling in the front rooms in several places; indeed, it was so severe that if it had lasted it would have been a sharp test for stone or brick buildings.

George Harrison R.N., Gisborne, 17th September, 1855."

COVID-19 UPDATE

Since the easing of COVID restrictions in regional Victoria, in September many Macedon Ranges Shire Council facilities have reopened following the one person per four-square-metre density limit. Visit www.mrsc.vic.gov.au for details.

As of October 1, the advice for Victoria remains:

· If you can work from home, continue to do so.

· Masks must be worn when indoors and outdoors, except in your home.

· Public group gatherings can happen with a maximum of 10 people.

· Private gatherings are not permitted, except intimate partner visits / single person bubble buddies. For the latest updates, visit coronavirus.vic.gov.au

Evy and her redfin.

On the La Brea set at Macedon in September.

South Gisborne hot tip for next 'Block' season

If The Block goes ahead at South Gisborne next year, as is the strong rumour, contestants will be renovating timber houses relocated to a farm at 207 McGeorge Road.

At time of going to press, the choice for next year's Block season was reported to be between South Gisborne and Byron Bay. It had not been publicly announced.

It has been confirmed, however, that the 32-hectare McGeorge Road property was bought recently by Channel Nine's production company MicJoy Pty Ltd for about $11 million, and has been subdivided into seven four-hectare (10-acre) lots, according to agents LJ Hooker.

It is believed The Block has set aside five lots which could have weatherboard houses placed on them for renovation.

At this stage it is not clear whether the existing historic farmhouse would be included as part of the show. The weatherboard house was built in 1866 by Scottish immigrants Joseph McGeorge and his sons Joseph and John. It has bluestone foundations and a slate roof. It is, however, in extremely dilapidated condition. It has been empty for nearly 20 years.

The McGeorges erected drystone walls around the house and these have heritage protection and may not be removed.

The McGeorge family owned the farm until about 1927, when it was bought by Tom Watson. Neither of Watson's children, Tom and Daisy, married, and the farm was left to close family friend and farm labourer Charles Brooking, who passed it to a relative of his in the 2000s, who has now sold the property.

The Block's creator, Julian Cress, bought a house in South Gisborne early this year.

 Heritage-protected drystone walls surround the homestead on three sides.

 Joseph McGeorge senior, c1870.

McGeorge and his four sons emigrated from Scotland after the death of his McGeorge's wife in 1851. They came in dribs and drabs starting in 1853 and were all here by about 1860.

Teachers recognised for milestones

Three local teachers have been recognised for their service of more than 40 years, through the Recognition of Service to Victorian Education program.

Stephen Winzar, Gisborne Secondary College, has been teaching 50 years; Ray Borg, Gisborne Secondary College, 40 years; and Trish Hyland, Mount Macedon Primary School, 40 years.

The Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas, congratulated the teachers for their long-serving dedication to students and families.

The three are among 342 teachers being honoured statewide.

While coronavirus has made it impossible to hold a ceremony, recipients will receive a personalised certificate in recognition of their achievement and a commemorative booklet.

The old home at McGeorge Road pictured about the 1960s. The house is now in very dilapidated condition.

Mount Macedon Primary School principal Trish Hyland, pictured with some of her students, has been teaching for 40 years.

SEEN AROUND TOWN

After being closed to the public since the July storms, Cameron Drive in Macedon Regional Park reopened in early September allowing Top of the Range tearooms on Mount Macedon to reopen after an extraordinary stretch of days of forced closure. We’re sure they would appreciate your business now more than ever.

Following repeated requests from local residents, Council organised the landscaping of the roundabout at the Macedon/Mt Macedon freeway exit in early September.

Small-business workshops on offer

As a Small Business Victoria workshop host, the Macedon Ranges Shire Council is offering three online workshops in October.

These are designed to help businesses develop a broad understanding of marketing, online opportunities and communicating with customers.

Community care

Local businesses continue to generously support those in need.

In September, Style 25 put a box of free clothing outside its store in Hamilton Street, and Jack Trinh of Trinh’s Kitchen donated $500 in cash and $500 in restaurant vouchers to Gisborne Foodbank.

October 7: Taking your business online (two hours); October 19: Strategies to advance your online business (three hours); October 28: Maximising your marketing (two hours).

To book, visit www.mrsc.vic.gov.au and click through the Events & Markets tab.

Siblings launch their careers in Gisborne

Young Gisborne professionals, brother and sister Brett and Sarah Mannix, have set up business in shared premises at 9A Hamilton Street.

Brett, 27, is practising as a chiropractor and Sarah, 20, is a beauty therapist. They have the proud support of their parents David and Caroline (who also run their own businesses in Gisborne) and younger sister Rachel who will join her siblings as a receptionist once she completes VCE at Gisborne Secondary College this year.

Brett is joined in his practice by his partner Naomi Erickson, 27, who also grew up in Gisborne. They attended Sacred Heart College together.

Brett, Sarah and Naomi are very happy to be starting their careers in their home town after spending years of training in Melbourne.

Also, Jingle Bells, Christmas Sells – a visual merchandising workshop. This is a free, one-hour workshop this month aimed at updating your retail skills and creating amazing Christmas season windows. For information call 5421 9654 or email ecodevadmin@mrsc.vic.gov.au

Macedon Ranges Laser Therapy ph: 5428 8556 Shop 13 Nexus Way 21 Goode Street Gisborne

Sarah and Brett Mannix are continuing a family tradition of home town business.

The path to the Memorial Cross remain closed.

Lockdown trails bring joy

Two themed trails appeared around the area in September to help children last through lockdown and encourage them to exercise.

Mount Macedon Primary School put 'Where’s Wally?' posters around the township for the week starting September 13 for students to bike or walk to as a break from remote learning.

In Gisborne, Katrina Buttigieg of Macedon Ranges Mumma stuck 'Where the wild things are' images around the walking and exercise track along Jackson Creek for young families to enjoy.

Both trails will have brought smiles to people of all ages.

Melodic warbling

If that were to be how you were remembered, you could do worse.

‘‘His/her life was one of melodic warbling.’’

But there are no epitaphs for the magpie. No ‘‘Here lies the remains of the neighourhood magpie, who trilled us each morning.’’ Alas, no.

True, there are poems, such as the prosaically entitled The Magpie by CJ Dennis:

“CalLOG’alloo-ay!” On a windy day.

Perched on a tree-top high I pour my notes from a valiant throat; For cock o’ the walk am I!

Defiant, loud, superbly proud, My song soars to the blue, A clarion call a challenge to all:

“CalLOG’alloo-ay-calloo!”

At this time of year - breeding season - with every CalLOG’alloo-ay-calloo! there may be the beat of black wings. It’s not a scene from the Joni Mitchell song of a veteran’s mental turmoil, but the rhythm of protecting your young. That beat of black wings is the swooping of a parent.

Macedon and Mt Macedon Community House update

Hopefully many readers will have seen the wonderful makeover of the building at 47 Victoria Street, Macedon. We were so excited to have had a walk through with council officers and are looking forward to signing a lease in the coming months.

The changes ensure the building is fully wheelchair accessible and suitable for all ages and abilities.

We have been successful in our application to the Macedon Ranges Shire Council Community Support Fund to undertake a master plan. This project will involve the community, key stakeholders, potential House user groups and local businesses participating in the process of landscape design, internal fitout and infrastructure planning for the premises.

We were also successful in an application to host live music and a community picnic during the Autumn Festival in 2022.

In other news, the inaugural AGM will be coming up so keep an eye out for details on our social media and community noticeboards. We are keen to fill the treasurer position on our management committee and other positions will be up for nomination. We take our responsibility as a committee seriously and value representation of all voices. Take advantage of our free early bird membership on our website so you can be part of the House and vote on these positions. www.macedoncommunityhouse.org

REFLECTIONS

Gisborne cemetery has a sign on its front gate warning of swooping magpies. It’s worth taking heed. Then again, our eyes cannot see what’s behind us, such as the impending glancing whack at the back of the neck, and then a return dive bomb when sitting on a bench. This is recent experience talking. Minding your own business is no excuse. Actually any excuse is no excuse at this time of year.

Paradoxically, as I sat on said bench it was rather wonderful to behold this magpie launch itself from yonder tree, co-ordinates set on subject, aka me, then swerving and swooping and speeding to its target, aka me. Shock and awe in a good way. I ducked, it missed. But it made its point with a followup dive from behind. I took my leave.

The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning very helpfully has an interactive map of the swooping magpies of Victoria. For instance:

The Community House has been made over inside and out.

Now is really the time to come forward and get involved. If joining our committee of management is not for you then there are working groups you can join, one-off volunteer roles and community consultations to participate in. Please email hello@ macedoncommunityhouse.org to enquire about how you can use the space for your group or activity and to hear about forthcoming events.

Samara Hodson

Swoop Locations 2021

Gisborne Cemetery: Magpie. No. of birds 1. Sighting Date 30/8/2021. Dixon Field: Magpie. No. of birds 3. Sighting Date 28/8/2021. Comment: "Very aggressive magpies around the athletics track and on the main soccer pitch. One also attacked my dog."

Luckily the dog on our walks has never been swooped by a magpie. However, a wattle bird at Gardiners Reserve seems to have made its mission to annoy poor Denis. Good-natured mutt that he is he isn’t bothered by it and goes on his way. Perhaps he has an understanding of territory. He certainly shows it in stops at trees and bushes. Minding his Ps and Qs, I guess.

For a few months we humans mind how we go in their territory, and for all year we receive the 'dewop' of their call. For magpies, besides being mimics, truly are free-style jazz singers. Their range is staggering, from soloists to ensemble, from warble to carolling. They keep time to no one. The song may be warning or joy. It sounds never to be lamentation.

It is the ordinary beauty of birdsong – the melody of nature.

Warwick McFadyen

Xanthe Berger (Grade 4) enjoyed doing the Mount Macedon Primary 'Where's Wally' trail.

Ramblers suggest ramble up Mt Gisborne

At the time of writing, COVID rules have relaxed slightly, allowing for the Ramblers to re-start, albeit with limited numbers. Hopefully by the time of publication we will be enjoying more freedom with greater participation.

At least with spring, the weather should be in our favour! If you would like to try a short easy walk, the Mt Gisborne summit on a sunny day is quite spectacular and in my opinion offers better views than the Memorial Cross outlook on Mt Macedon.

Directions: drive up Mt Gisborne Road, turn right into Woodland Drive. About 200m along look for an entrance gate (usually locked) but with a side pedestrian access. There is a sign indicating the reserve just beyond the access.

Follow the wide grassy track up through the woodland until exiting the treeline. At this point you will see on the high point a blue pole indicating the summit. It is not recommended to go direct as this involves a rock scramble and it is easy to roll an ankle. Instead, stay with the grassy track, which goes to the right and away from the pole; this leads over the ridge, descends slightly and turns left, approaching the summit from the ‘blind side’.

A small, fenced square around a concrete footing

indicates the location of a previous signal tower. At this point, make direct for the blue pole and enjoy the fabulous views.

Adjacent to the pole is the survey mark at ground level. Originally, a black ball marker was situated

above the mark (similar to the one on Mt Aitken) but blew down in a storm.

No dogs are allowed in the reserve; look out for a sizeable mob of eastern grey kangaroos.

A bit of friendly family competition

Our family of four, heading off for a weekend of fishing, went straight to the Goulburn River with rods in hand.

The competition was strong with everyone wanting to be the first to catch a stonker trout! (Large ex-brood trout released into waterways for trout season opening by Victorian Fisheries to encourage family fishing.)

The water was dirty with very little clarity because of a heavy downpour a few days prior, but the warm spring sun was out.

Cara was the winner of round one, reeling in an 8lb, 59cm rainbow trout on her third cast. With the bar now set, the rest of the family were on a mission to out-fish mum.

Both kids successfully each reeled in a stonker, but it was Dad who took the crown of best fisher for the weekend. Dad, who caught a lovely little brown trout,

Charles (gisramblers@gmail.com) was determined to chase the big ones, fishing further upstream at the crack of dawn the next morning. Dean’s early start and persistence paid off.

Fishing a deeper run, as soon as the line pulled tight and fast, he knew he had a decent sized trout on the fly and it fought hard.

Successfully landing a 14lb, 74cm rainbow trout, Dean was absolutely stoked having caught the biggest fish of the trip.

The trip was a great success with ‘catch and release’ fishing (but we kept a few for some delicious trout recipes!)

For more information on the Calder Fly Fishing Association visit www.calderflyfishing.com.au

Cummings family

Vera, Dean, Archer and rainbow stonker trout.

View from Mt Gisborne Bushland Reserve, and (inset) the small blue pole indicating the summit.

COUNCILLOR'S COLUMN

With Cr Rob Guthrie

This has been another difficult and uncertain year with multiple lockdowns and the cancellation of many community events due to COVID.

As part of the campaign to get everyone vaccinated, the Mayor and Chief Executive Officer have filmed a video for the “Get the Jab Campaign” which will be shared on social media. We have a good vaccination rate in the Macedon Ranges but it is important for everyone who is able to be vaccinated to get it done to protect you, your family, friends and colleagues.

Council has put 15 Plans and Strategies out for comment in the past three months and we appreciate the many people who have taken the time to provide feedback.

There will be more consultations in the next few months and I thank everyone in anticipation of their comments.

On a personal note, there was some thought that my Candidate Statement for the council election may have been an issue.

I removed myself from discussions and decisions regarding the Gisborne Futures project while I was awaiting legal advice as to whether there was a basis for a reasonable apprehension of bias.

I have now received privileged legal advice and am of the opinion that there is no reason to continue to exclude myself, because there is no proper basis to infer that I cannot bring an open and unfixed mind to discussions and decisions about the project.

My reference to my legal advice does not, and is not intended to, constitute a waiver of my legal professional privilege and I do not intend to disclose the contents of my advice. I look forward to being involved in this project. rguthrie@mrsc.vic.gov.au, 0419 309 954

Three months on, storm cleanup

The Council continues storm recovery operations across the shire, addressing storm debris and potential fuel loads, but cautions residents to stay safe during any clean-up activities.

Chief Executive Officer Bernie O’Sullivan said Council recognised many local residents were still grappling to deal with fallen trees and lower hanging branches on their properties.

“We are working closely with Bushfire Recovery Victoria to prioritise advice, support services and assistance for older and more vulnerable members of the community,” Mr O’Sullivan said.

“Private land owners who are not physically capable or have training or experience in the use of chainsaws and other machinery are urged to seek advice or assistance from neighbours, professional contractors, Bushfire Recovery Victoria or Council.

“Please don’t risk serious injury using chainsaws and ladders if you don’t have the skills or mobility to tackle these tasks safely. We can refer urgent cases to our crews, contractors or the local SES to help respond to risks posed by fallen trees or hanging branches.”

He said illegal roadside collection of timber or mulch also had potential to cause traffic hazards and put people in harm’s way at a time when storm damage has made local roads more dangerous than usual.

“Council crews and contractors continue their large-scale storm response and recovery operation,"

he said. “This includes cleanup on road reserves with respect to significant vegetation, as well as replacement of signs and barriers and road repairs.”

Residents are urged to keep reporting sites that pose an immediate danger on both private property and public land to the Recovery Operations Centre on 5422 0237 or email recovery@mrsc.vic.gov.au

There are a range of free services to assist residents in clean-up activities:

 Green Waste Disposal: Council is providing free green waste disposal for residents and ratepayers at shire transfer stations. Proof of residency will be required, such as a rate notice or photo ID with local address. Loads must be free of weeds, wire, food scraps and other rubbish. Visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/ Green-waste-drop-off

 Free storm firewood: Collection arrangements for free firewood are due to start in early October, COVID-19 permitting. The more than 2,000 people who registered for Round 1 should expect to receive a call soon to finalise their booking timeslot. The free firewood is unsuitable for burning and needs to dry out for at least 12 months before it can be used.

 Free mulch services: Tree clearing operations have created mega volumes of mulch across the shire. Local residents and ratepayers will be able to access free mulch at council transfer stations. For information updates, visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/ Storm Recovery

Picture: Darren Shiell

Storm damage in Macedon Regional Park and trees chainsawed and ready for removal.

still continues

Assessment reveals unreported damage

Targeted calls and site assessments led by Council’s recovery team and support staff recently confirmed nearly 1000 properties across Macedon Ranges Shire sustained damage from high winds and storms in early June. About 200 people had not previously reported their property damage to Council or other authorities

Municipal recovery manager Tony Grimme said the assessment indicated many local property owners had been tackling debris on their own properties or securing contractors and activating claims through their insurance companies, without accessing other support.

Previously unreported damage over the fortnight to September 17 included houses, water damage, equipment, vehicles, sheds, fallen trees, fencing and stock losses.

“This shows admirable community resilience, but we are aware some people may only just now be recognising some tasks are beyond them,” Mr Grimme said. “They may still need extra on-ground resources or personal support to help them recover and get on with their lives.

“We understand it’s a frustrating time for everyone affected by the storm but the more detailed assessment Council and other agencies have of this emergency’s community impact, the better.”

“Not only can we help people with organising Bushfire Recovery Victoria’s site assessments and referrals to social support services ... we can identify gaps in the delivery of recovery services to help plan for the next major incident in our community.”

Roads begin to reopen around Mt Macedon

Parks Victoria crews are making significant progress managing the damaging impacts of the June storm at Macedon Regional Park, Lerderderg State Park and Trentham Falls (Coliban Scenic Reserve).

Regional Roads Victoria has worked with Parks Victoria to completely clear and reopen Cameron Drive, the main road that provides access to several visitor sites in Macedon Regional Park.

Sites including Harbison Picnic Ground, Top of the Range Tea Rooms, McGregor’s Picnic Ground and Camels Hump lookout were reopened ahead of school holidays. The much-loved Old Scout Camp Area below Bawden Road, English Street Blocks and park areas off Log Dump Road have also been reopened to vehicles and hikers.

The walking track from Bawden Road to the War Memorial at Mt Macedon, as well as the Reserve itself, remain closed. The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) is working with the committee of management to identify unstable trees, including broken and hanging branches near walking paths and viewing lookouts.

Large ash trees and unstable ground conditions are still blocking access to Days and Sanatorium Lake picnic grounds, as well as all other roads and tracks at Macedon Regional Park, including Lions Head Road and the Eco Walking Trail.

Visitors are requested to observe site closures, signs and fenced-off areas as trees, rocks and soil may continue to move. Visit the Parks Victoria website for up to date information and maps: www.parks.vic.gov.au.

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Dr Rashida Moiz Dr Shaima Al Msari

Dr Tanya Duke Dr Haritha Puppala

Dr Alan Lee Dr James Owen

Dr Karina Tunnecliff

Dr Tanya Duke Dr Haritha Puppala

Dr Syed Hussain Dr Padmaja Nagalla

Dr Haritha Puppala

Dr Tanya Duke Dr Haritha Puppala

Dr Rashida Moiz Dr Shaima Al Msari

Dr Karina Tunnecliff Dr Emily Wilson

Dr Tanya Duke Dr Haritha Puppala

Dr Karina Tunnecliff Dr Emily Wilson

Dr Rashida Moiz Dr Shaima Al Msari

Dr Sean Mcgrath

Dr Karina Tunnecliff Dr Emily Wilson

Dr Min Kim Dr Haritha Puppala

Dr Emily Wilson

Dr Karina Tunnecliff Dr Emily Wilson

Dr Tanya Duke Dr Haritha Puppala

Dr Min Kim Dr Sean Mcgrath

Dr Tanya Duke Dr Haritha Puppala

Dr Min Kim Dr Sean Mcgrath

Dr Min Kim

Dr Mark Bronsema

Dr Karina Tunnecliff Dr Emily Wilson

Dr Min Kim Dr Sean Mcgrath

Dr Penny Mclernon Dr Mark Bronsema

Dr Karina Tunnecliff Dr Emily Wilson

Dr Penny Mclernon Dr Mark Bronsema

Dr Vi Trinh

Other services

Dr Min Kim Dr Sean Mcgrath

Dr Penny Mclernon Dr Mark Bronsema

Dr Min Kim Dr Sean Mcgrath

Other services

Adult/child immunisation

Dr Penny Mclernon Dr Mark Bronsema

Other services

Dr Penny Mclernon Dr Mark Bronsema

Adult/child immunisation

Other services

Chronic Condition Clinics Pap Test Clinics

Adult/child immunisation

Other services

Chronic Condition Clinics

Other services cs

Chronic Condition Clinics

Adult/child immunisation

Expert Skin clinics

Nurse Pap Test Clinics

Adult/child immunisation

Nurse Pap Test Clinics

Chronic Condition Clinics

Nurse Pap Test Clinics

Chronic Condition Clinics

Expert Skin clinics

Nurse Pap Test Clinics

Expert Skin clinics

Nurse Pap Test Clinics

Expert Skin clinics

Children under 16 bulk billed (except weekends)

Children under 16 bulk billed by all doctors when clinic open Visiting services/alllied health

Children under 16 bulk billed (except weekends)

Visiting services/allied health

Children under 16 bulk billed (except weekends)

Visiting services/allied health

Broad range of specialist and allied health services. See website for detail

Broad range of specialist and allied health services. See website for detail details

Broad range of specialist and allied health services. See website for detail

Visiting services/allied health Broad range of specialist and allied health services. See website for detail

Broad range of specialist and allied health services. See website for detail

The helicopter rope is hooked onto a broken branch during the cleanup on Alton Road, Mount Macedon in September.

Cleaning up on Cameron Drive. Picture: Parks Victoria

COMMUNITY SERVICE

Mt Macedon CFA holds open day

Time to get ready for fire season now

No sooner than the cold weather finally exits stage left than it is time to think about bushfire. The Gisborne Fire Brigade advises residents to begin preparing for the upcoming fire season.

You don’t have to live on acreage to be at risk of fire. Everyone in Victoria who lives near dense forest, bush or grassland needs to prepare their property for bushfire. This includes the township of Gisborne.

It is equally important to prepare your property in the event of a bushfire in the Macedon or Bullengarook areas; heavy ember attack may cause house fires even if you live in a built-up area of Gisborne.

We all need to plan ahead.

Having a bushfire plan is very important, you have to decide depending on your risk what you will do on a significant fire danger day. This includes knowing: Which fire danger rating is your trigger to leave?

Will you leave early that morning or the night before? Where will you go? What route will you take – and what is your alternative in the event that a fire is already in the area?

What will you take with you? What do you need to organise for pets or livestock? Is there anyone outside your household who you need to help?

How will you stay informed about warnings and updates? What will you do if there is a fire in the area and you cannot leave?

Remember to decide who will do what as part of your plan.

Leaving early is the safest option. Leaving early means leaving the area before there are any signs of a fire – not when you can see flames or smell smoke. Planning to stay and defend is a big decision. You could be at serious risk on Severe, Extreme and Code Red days. Most homes in high-risk bushfire areas are not designed for Code Red conditions.

Maintenance: Remove flammable items from decks and verandahs, such as boxes, furniture and doormats. Keep grass cut to less than 10cm. Get rid of dry grass, leaves, twigs and loose bark.

For further tips and advice visit the CFA website www.cfa.vic.gov.au or message our Facebook page,, Gisborne Fire Brigade-CFA.

This

May Gibbs sketch of the Gumnut Babies was

produced in 1918 when the Spanish 'flu swept the world… similar to our situation today.

Kind words for Foodbank volunteers

Appeal for help in Anti-Poverty Week

Anti-Poverty Week runs from October 17 to 23, and members of the Sunbury-Macedon Ranges VIEW Club are calling on the community to sponsor an Australian child through leading children’s education charity, The Smith Family.

Sunbury-Macedon Ranges VIEW Club sponsors nine children through The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program, which provides them with educational and personal support.

This year has been particularly challenging for students experiencing disadvantage, with long periods of remote learning due to COVID-19.

VIEW is passionate about supporting the work of The Smith Family, because it is through education that we can help break the cycle of poverty and allow these children to create better futures for themselves.

It was so lovely for Gisborne Foodbank volunteers to receive a beautiful poem from one of our clients, Aleisha. It seems that Aleisha is quite the poet! Our volunteers are so amazing and this is a wonderful acknowledgment of the care that they provide to those in need in our community. Thanks so much Aleisha.

The Gisborne Foodbank is open on Wednesdays and Fridays from 10am to 3pm. If you need assistance putting food on the table, please contact the Gisborne Foodbank on mobile 0492 850 520, drop in on Wednesday or Friday, message us via our Facebook page (@GisborneFoodbank), or visit our website www.gisbornefoodbank.org.au). We are here to help so please don’t hesitate to contact us.

When I am sad, when I am low,

To the Food Bank I do go.

To see a band of volunteers, Who are always ready to lend their ears.

Not only our bodies do they sustain, They lift our spirits in sunshine or rain. With a word and friendly smile, They keep us going for quite a while.

Julie Ireland

President Judith McPherson of the SunburyMacedon Ranges VIEW Club said that joining VIEW, or becoming a sponsor, had never been more important.

The club meets on the third Friday of each month at Club Sunbury, 49 Riddell Road, Sunbury, with special guest speakers, lunch and coffee outings each month.

Each year the club celebrates its birthday with a fun theme, and also celebrates International Women’s Day with a special guest speaker, fashion parade and lots of fun.

Please contact Judith on 9740 8310 or email her on 380meo@gmail.com to discuss what the club does.

To find out more about VIEW, please contact view. org.au or call 1800 805 366. Helen Bird

Friendly members of SunburyMacedon Ranges VIEW Club

Christmas Gift Shop gears up: you can help

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council and two community organisations – Sunbury Cobaw Community Health and Kyneton Baptist – are again joining together to support families in need at Christmas.

As a continued response to the challenges of COVID-19, the Macedon Ranges Gift Shop initiative is running a gift card program.

By offering gift cards to be redeemed in local businesses, we are supporting not only local families in need, but our economy at the same time, coordinator Georgina Harvey said. The Gift Shop

is seeking donations to make this possible.

Families will receive the gift cards, with a set amount for each child. The cards can be redeemed at participating local business partners. We hope to have as many businesses on board as possible, offering as many products and services as possible.

The amount of gift cards and assistance we can provide per child will depend solely on the amount of

Rotary RISEs against homelessness

Rotary clubs across the region have joined forces to tackle homelessness – a growing social concern created by lack of affordable rental accommodation and safe housing in our area.

Rotary

The group, which includes the Rotary Clubs of Gisborne, Woodend, Kyneton, Macedon Ranges and Daylesford, is called ‘Rotary in Support of Empowerment’, or RISE, and we are pleased to have the founder of Housing All Australians, Robert Pradolin, and many local organisations working alongside us

“We are very concerned at the growing number of women over 50 who are facing homelessness, and we want to help them regain stability in their lives,” said the president of Woodend Rotary, Josephine Falzarano.

The team leader of housing at Sunbury and Cobaw Health, Justine Maher, is seeing the issue firsthand. “From the start of January this year, our organisation alone has worked with 65 cases in the Macedon Ranges of people in need of shelter, 70% were women, 55% were women over the age of 50,” said Justine.

Gisborne Rotary president, Lynette Robinson, said, “Hope is the most important thing we can give women who find themselves homeless, often without warning or resources to support themselves.”

As its first objective, RISE is looking for local spaces or buildings, private or commercial, that are vacant and that can be leased and refurbished by volunteers to

provide short term or ‘pop up’ accommodation for homeless women.

This follows the successful launch in July 2018 of Melbourne’s first pop-up shelter in a vacant building owned by aged care not-for-profit CaSPA Care. Housing All Australians brought together private sector volunteers, and over a two-year period the YWCA has been able to provide housing to 85 women over 55 years in a building that would normally have been empty for several years.

As Robert Pradolin says, “It just does not make common sense to leave buildings empty when we have a housing crisis. Housing All Australians was founded in the knowledge that if the basic need of shelter is not met, there are longer-term economic consequences, and the significant associated costs are pushed to future generations. These costs are a result of increased mental and physical health issues, family violence, policing and the justice system, as well as long term welfare dependency.”

For RISE, affordable short to mediumterm accommodation is the first step in a plan that needs to include long-term solutions for social and affordable housing.

If you know of any buildings or have appropriate spaces on your property that are not currently being used, or would like further information on this project, please call Lynette Robinson on 0407 777 344.

For more information on Housing All Australians, visit www.housingallaustralians. org.au

financial donations we are able to raise. For 2021 we have a target to raise $15,000.

Individual donations can be made by direct deposit, cash, cheque and on online. Find us on Facebook for more details, or contact Georgina Harvey, coordinator, on 0404 442 891 or at macedonrangesgiftshop@gmail.com.

If you are a local business interested in joining the gift card system for your store, we’d love to speak further and partner with you.

Georgina Harvey

ST PAUL’S OP SHOP JOTTINGS

Spring is certainly in the air! Many households have done their spring cleanout of bric-a-brac including a great range of excellent reading material.

Many of our customers have indicated how much they have missed our op shop with it being closed during lockdown but we are open at this point in time.

Most of our adult clothing and shoes are $2 and children’s clothing and shoes just $1. We also have a rack of low-priced clothing which is mostly new with tags or just that little bit more special.

We are very thankful for all your clean, useable donations of household items, clothing, linen, shoes and toys.

With Remembrance Day coming up next month, we have created a wall of giant poppies in the shop to honour soldiers fallen in the line of duty.

For those wishing to fill a Samaritan’s Purse shoebox for needy children overseas, please ask for a box at the counter. The return date is October 15.

Graeme Millar, 0413 781 501

Club of Gisborne

The Op Shop's volunteer for this month is Frances Gundy who regularly works at the front counter.

Robert Pradolin, Housing All Australians

Lions Club office-bearers for new year installed

After planning a formal combined Changeover Dinner and Annual General Meeting for August 5, the Lions Club event had to be cancelled on the night of the function as the state was plunged into lockdown.

It was decided to hold the event on August 26 via Zoom. Together with Gisborne and District Lions Club members, the District Governor V1-4 Lion Harry Brindle and Zone Chairman Barry McDonald were in attendance at the meeting.

The District Governor installed the office bearers for 2021-22 including new president Ross Sapwell, vice-president Russell Walker OAM, treasurer Helena Cyrulo, secretary Sharon Wicks, second vice-president Lesley Cole and third vice-president Phil Hardy. Further, the District Governor inducted Maria Wolfe as a member of the club.

Past president Russell Walker outlined the charitable disbursements made in 2020-21 which totalled $10,285 and in the past three years totalled $50,740. District Governor Harry Brindle stated that he was impressed with the broad range of activities undertaken and causes supported by the Lions Club.

The club aims to provide hope to the local community by planning to deliver a cut-down version of the Lions Gisborne Festival in December this year, the delivery of which will be dependent on the COVID restrictions that are in place at that time.

The vice-president of Gisborne Lions, Russell Walker, says thank you to the local community for supporting the Lions Spring Raffle. The winner was Adam Mountjoy, ticket number 0119.

WHAT'S ON AT GISBORNE LIBRARY

Library catalogue access at the press of a button

Do you want an easier way to access the library catalogue to reserve your next book or DVD than by using the website (www.ncgrl.vic.gov.au)?

Then download the Library Catalogue App onto your phone or tablet for fast, free access to the catalogue and your account. It is called the “Spydus Mobile App.” (Spydus is the name of the computer system the library uses)

1. Download the free “Spydus Mobile” App from Google Play (android) or iTunes (Apple)

2. Select Goldfields Libraries as your library.

3. Enter your library card and PIN to access the features.

Users can now reserve items from the catalogue. Scan the barcode of an item outside the library to find out if it is available to borrow. If it is, reserve it instantly.

Renew items by selecting them and clicking Renew.

Access your library account to view your current loans; see if you have any reservations ready to collect; check if any of your loans are overdue; and more. If you need help installing or using our app, call into Gisborne Library, and the staff will help you.

Relay For Life postponed until March

Unfortunately, the Lancefield Macedon Ranges Relay For Life has had to be postponed again due to COVID restrictions. The relay scheduled for October 9 will be held next year.

A big thank you to our teams and their supporters for their understanding and continued support during this time of uncertainty.

Organisers plan to hold the relay in March 2022 and are in the process of locking in a date.

To join the Lancefield Relay For Life event, please phone 1300 65 65 85 or visit relayforlife. org.au.

Helen Nettleton grew up in Glenroy in a happy home, where there were many simple pleasures such as music and frequent camping trips.

She attended Glenroy PS and Oakbank HS, after which she worked at Orlando Wines and then the Metropolitan Fire Brigade. She was responsible for the preparation of reports for each fire in metropolitan Melbourne. It was an interesting time at the beginning of fire forensics and Helen enjoyed six years in this role.

Sadly, the breakdown of a six-year relationship left Helen as the single parent of a two-year-old daughter. Helen then devoted her life to raising Belinda, who is now a teacher. When Belinda, Brett and family settled in Gisborne 16 years ago, Helen also moved to the area.

Helen’s passions include family and friends, sport, cooking, knitting, music of yesteryear and travelling. She played basketball, softball and squash when younger and still loves to follow all forms of sport. However, her overwhelming passion is the Essendon Football Club. She attended her first game at age three and can still remember seeing John Coleman play. Over the next 34 years she missed only 18 VFL games and still attends when possible.

In recent years she has travelled widely from Europe to America to the Pacific.

Since joining Gisborne Probus, Helen has really enjoyed meeting new people and participating in outings. During the COVID period, she has taken on the roles of vice-president and president. Her passion for life and positive attitude have helped to guide the club through these challenging times.

Past president Russell Walker OAM, left, with incoming president Ross Sapwell.

HELEN NETTLETON Helen has many interests and passions, but her overwhelming passion is the Essendon Football Club.

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Proudly sponsored by Phoenix Macedon Ranges Art & Craft, The Gallery Mt Macedon, The Gisborne Singers, Licorice Allsorts, Macedon Music, The Mount Players, Woodend Art Group and Macedon Ranges Photographic Society

View of a bridge

Members of the Macedon Ranges Photographic Society have been spotted around a number of local bridges. You may have seen them looking at them from a distance, clambering for a better view from side on, climbing on top of them or even getting right in underneath.

In between lockdowns and when restrictions allow, the photographers enjoy the social side of their art by going on group outings to local areas. Sometimes there is a theme and the photographers try to find a new angle or approach to taking photographs.

With the theme of ‘Bridges’, members looked at the texture of the materials used in the structures, the composition of images to ensure that they highlighted a point of interest, the available lighting, surrounding scenery and much more. Working with a group allowed participants to ask questions, work cooperatively and to encourage each other. Some even shared some of their own stories about bridges or discussed local historical facts and myths.

Macedon Ranges Photographic Society have online tutorials and step-by-step guides to improve all aspects of photography. Members have unlimited access to all of the resources on the website and new members are very welcome.

The club generally meets on the first Tuesday of the month, followed by the next Monday. These meetings are held online if restrictions are in place. Social chats start at 7pm with the meeting starting at 7.30pm. Please visit www.macedon-rangesphotography.org.au.

Colleen Mahoney

Open Wednesday and Friday, 10am to 3pm

We are here to provide temporary food assistance for those in need

Enter via Heritage Way at the back of the Gisborne Uniting Church Enquiries: 0492 850 520 Email: gisborneccf@gmail.com

Arts groups pay tribute to valued member

VALE RICHARD WHITELEY

Gisborne Singers

Singers

The Gisborne Singers were saddened to learn of the passing of one of their long-serving members, Richard Whiteley. Richard sang with the choir for 15 years and was a committee member for many.

He also was an important fundraising officer, making it financially possible for Stephen and Margaret Brockman to fulfil their vision for the choir.

Fellow bass singer Robert Blair tells us that Richard’s long-term planning, which included approaches to many individuals and trusts, provided financial stability. The choir thus has been able to perform many great classical works with professional soloists and orchestras.

Richard’s treasured ability to play the piano by ear meant that he provided background music at our winter cabarets. This ability plus his community dedication also led him to start weekly singalong sessions at The Oaks and Warrina aged care facilities in Gisborne. Richard got together several Gisborne Singers members to help out and made up a songbook for residents.

According to Margaret Brockman, it was thanks to Richard’s insistence that the choir first performed Brahms’ Requiem. Appropriately, this is the work the choir is hoping to perform next month. We are currently practising in sections; if you would like to join us, please contact us via www. gisbornesingers.org.au

In other news, the committee has approved the purchase of new risers and a covered trailer thanks to a Bendigo Bank grant. This will fulfill a long-term need of the choir. Alison Kinghorn

The Mount Players

Life Member Richard Whiteley passed away on August 22.

He was a member of the Mount Players’ Committee for the first 12 years of its independent life from 1976, performing in the tiny, original theatre.

When the theatre was lost in the 1983 Ash Wednesday fires, Richard was assigned to oversee all theatre planning and construction. From appointing architects to fundraising, Richard worked tirelessly to ensure that the beautiful Mountview Theatre was finally completed and opened in 1990. He remains an integral part of our theatre’s history. He will be greatly missed. Our condolences to Richard's family.

In other news, The Mount Players Youth Theatre is a vibrant community theatre program designed for children and young adults aged from 10 to 19 years and is run entirely by volunteers. The Youth Theatre has been an active adjunct to The Mount Players since 2005 and provides opportunities for young participants to learn a wide range of theatrical skills.

With many of the current, longstanding leadership group indicating their unavailability for next year due to other commitments, The Mount Players is seeking interest from enthusiastic, experienced volunteers for 2022. If you would like to know more, please go to www.themountplayers.com for full details and contact person.

It is hoped the Youth Theatre will be able to stage their end of year production in December, however, due to continued uncertainty with COVID, Love Song, sadly, has been postponed until early 2022.

Karen Hunt

Richard receives life membership.

Richard at the piano, Cabaret 2012.

Richard with fellow basses D’Arcy Wood and Chris Poynter, 2013.

Todd’s Bridge (Picture by Sue Steward)

the Gisborne

Artist and leader: Colleen Weste

Colleen Weste came to live in Mount Macedon in 1999 after closing her retail business Silk and Threads in Brighton. However, any thoughts that this move would be the start of a quiet retirement for this creative and energetic woman were never entertained.

Colleen Weste will never retire.

Once settled into her home and studio in Waterfalls Road with husband Ron, Colleen soon became part of the local artistic scene. In 2006 –together with Joan Bourke – she organised a meeting of 25 local artists that saw the formation of the Macedon Ranges Arts Collective which then established The Gallery near the Trading Post. Colleen became president of the group and remained in that leadership role for the next 12 years.

She was also closely involved in the Open Studios program and the annual parade of art to wear clothing at Jubilee Hall in Macedon.

The Gallery continues to be a successful venture with 26 local artists currently involved in its day-to-day running.

The Gallery was launched the same year as the Gisborne Gazette and over the past 15 years Colleen has been the Gazette’s reporter for The Gallery’s activities.

Beforecoming to the Mount, Colleen had lived a very busy and interesting life.

She grew up in the lower Flinders Ranges in South Australia with devoted parents, brother Michael, sister Mary and a legion of cousins. She enjoyed a happy childhood and from a very early age it was apparent that art and creativity would be her beacons in life. She loved colours, fabric and dressing up and at the age of nine organised the local kids to put on a concert in the Town Hall. She designed all of the costumes.

In her teens she won a scholarship to St Dominic’s Priory College in Adelaide and spent four years there as a boarder. Then followed teacher training and, after graduation and the sad death of her mother, Colleen was appointed to a country school. Seeking a more adventurous job she left teaching to become an air hostess with TAA but was soon disillusioned to find that she was basically working as a waitress, so she returned to teaching to serve out her studentship bond at a school in Whyalla.

That done, it was off to England by ship, arriving to teach in London in the excitement of the swinging sixties

LOCAL PROFILE – Bryan Power talked to Colleen Weste about her varied and well-travelled life.

and all that went with it in art and fashion. Colleen was in her element. She describes it as her coming-of-age time.

Colleen

married David Mattiske, a university friend of her brother's, in a very English wedding in London in 1964. Together they travelled for two and a half years throughout Europe before returning to Australia to raise their two sons, Andrew and Matthew.

Back home, Colleen continued to create and sew, mainly alternative ethnic clothing. Colleen experimented with patchwork, macrame, crochet, knitting, spinning and weaving.

David’s appointment to a position with the World Bank in the late 1970s

excited to assist Wada then and during subsequent visits and so began her fascination with Shibori.

In the 1980s Colleen attended regular textile forums in Victoria and NSW as a tutor and was introduced to silk painting by a French couple during this time. She began importing silk from China and dyes from Dupont in France to create her unique works of art.

saw the family move to Washington DC and it was there that Colleen’s textile studies took off with a particular interest in natural dyes.

After returning to Australia she became a founding member of the Melbourne Botanic Gardens Plant Craft Dye Group and started a graduate diploma in textile studies at RMIT while also running weaving classes at Monash University Craft Centre.

In the following years Colleen taught textile classes at Victoria College Armadale, Prahran Arts College, Emily McPherson College and Swinburne University costume and design course. Later, while doing postgraduate studies at RMIT, she was mentored by several international masters of the textile crafts.

Colleen became a member of the Melbourne Spinners and Weavers in 1981 and was asked to coordinate their first Australian Fibre Conference Wool and Beyond in association with Melbourne University. Through her contacts with the Handweavers Guild

In the late 1980s Colleen suffered the breakdown of her marriage but turned her life in a new direction when she opened her shop in Brighton in 1987 and expanded her online sales. At the same time she wrote a book on silk painting that was published by Penguin and sold 5000 copies. Through a close friend and well known wine maker Peter Weste, Colleen met his brother Ron Weste and they married in 1989. Ron is fondly remembered by Gazette volunteers as one of our pioneer distributors and go-to photographer. His Birds of the Macedon Ranges articles featuring his beautiful bird photographs were much admired.

Ron introduced Colleen to the world of motorbikes and in the following years she travelled thousands of kilometres throughout Australia as his pillion passenger. However while riding in Spain in 2012, they were hit by an old car coming around a bend on the wrong side of the road. They were both seriously injured but Colleen, with compound fractures, was in hospital for six weeks before repatriation to Melbourne. Following rehabilitation Colleen was back to work with her legendary drive.

Ron celebrated his 80th birthday in Colleen’s studio in July 2018 with a large gathering of family and friends. It was a very happy occasion for the devoted couple. Tragically, a little over a year later, Ron died suddenly at home.

Colleen’s creativity and work has helped her to keep looking ahead. She is currently working on a book that will be titled Silk Painting Shibori for Art to Wear and Silk Art Quilts. Her studio continues to be her sanctuary and she is grateful for the ongoing support of so many close friends.

of America, Colleen managed to bring 40 experts from around the world to present papers.

Colleen then brought the founder of the World Shibori Group, Yoshika Wada, to run workshops at Monash University Craft Centre (Shibori is a form of tie-dye art). Colleen was

Colleen continues to teach workshops while selling and exhibiting her art to wear and silk art. She has found the lockdowns of the past two years challenging but is grateful to have been sustained by her creativity.

She continues to be a leader in the world of art and fashion in the Macedon Ranges and beyond.

Colleen and Ron at Ron's 80th birthday celebration in 2018.

Colleen's studio is her sanctuary

The joy of a picnic in the park

There was one week in August between lockdowns which was a flurry of activities, including a meeting, an Association Day, a dinner with partners and a trip to Ararat to view the State Creative Arts. Only we missed getting in to see the display when the lockdown came in at 1pm and the show closed early.

Judy Culpan took Judy Booth, Val Jarred and me on the drive to Ararat on a lovely sunny day. The countryside was green and the dams all full and we thoroughly enjoyed our drive. After a coffee and a quick lunch, we were unable to enter the Ararat town hall so turned around and came home.

Helen Ryvitch was awarded the top honour of a green star for her immaculate quilt, Helen Hallett got a first and a second prize and Christine Thompson a first place for knitted socks.

Well done, Gisborne branch.

We were unable to have our meeting at the school

Hello from the Macedon Police Station.

Unfortunately, we have had a busy time of late. During August we had several incidents of graffiti around the town.

A 24-year-old man from Gisborne was interviewed and charged for graffiti that was witnessed at the Macedon Reservoir on the brick wall which runs parallel with the walkway. He will be summonsed to appear at the Kyneton Magistrates Court.

There was also graffiti at Jubilee Hall and the Macedon CFA; it appears that they were done by the same person.

These matters are still being investigated and anyone with any information is asked to call the Macedon Police Station on 5426 1228.

Two warrants were conducted in Macedon in the early hours of September 7 involving detectives and uniform police from the local area and metropolitan Melbourne. Four males were arrested and remanded on drug offences.

Stadium in September so had a small gathering in the park on a cool showery day. We collected a few items for the Foodbank and sang happy birthday to Osija.

There is a book sale at the Macedon CWA hall on Saturday October 2 from 10am to 4pm, so get along and support Macedon CWA branch.

Our AGM is on October 11 so hopefully it can go ahead at Gisborne Secondary College at 10am, with coffee,craft and chat a week later on October 18. Christine Edwards

POLICE BEAT

With the current environment around the coronavirus, please be aware of what the restrictions are and ensure you wear a face mask. Police are enforcing the directions from the Chief Health Officer and infringements will be handed out if you are found not complying.

The Macedon Regional Park walking tracks have been closed since the storms in June. Parks Victoria have just opened Camels Hump, McGregor’s and Cameron picnic grounds. The Memorial Cross is currently still closed but they are hopeful of having it opened soon. The tearooms are also open.

Sanatorium Lake and Days picnic grounds remain closed but are currently being cleared and Parks are hopeful they will be open soon, so please do not go beyond the barriers as it is still unsafe.

Leading Senior Constable Rick Janssen

POLICE BEAT

From Gisborne Police Station

Meet Sen Sgt Martin Kappel, Officer in Charge

This past month has continued to show that for policing in the Macedon Ranges the only constant is change. I have taken on the permanent role of Officer in Charge at Gisborne Police Station.

I will also be overseeing Woodend, Macedon and Riddells Creek police and holding the Municipal Emergency Response Coordinator role for Macedon Ranges.

My wife and I have lived in the Macedon Ranges for over 18 years so we’re well on the way to becoming locals. Together we raised our two children who attended local schools and have been actively involved in the local community.

I’ve had a varied career, having worked in four police organisations across Australia and overseas during my 33 years in this profession. I come from an operational policing background, along with having held several detective positions and working in the areas of sexual assault and child abuse.

I am looking forward to the challenges that come with this new role. I am keen to build on and strengthen relationships between my team and the local community. On this theme it was pleasing to see over 700 responses to the Victoria Police Macedon Ranges Safety Survey. We will use information from this survey to ensure we are responding to community concerns.

We continue to work under significant staffing pressure brought on by the statewide police response to the pandemic. It has been concerning to see a recent increase in breaches of the Chief Health Officer’s directives. These have been both from people travelling to the Macedon Ranges from Greater Melbourne without a lawful reason, and by people within the Macedon Ranges, mainly through unlawful gatherings at private houses.

I strongly urge everyone to be familiar with and comply with current restrictions. These can be found at www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au.

As the weather improves and COVID restrictions ease (hopefully!) I aim to have my staff spend more time out and about on foot, in and around the local shopping centres. If you see us around, please feel free to have a chat and let us know of any issues or concerns you may have.

Picnic in the park, left to right: Kathy, Margaret, Osija, Carol, Kay, Kerri, Judy and Cheryl.

Sen Sgt Martin Kappel

Sen Sgt Kappel

From Macedon Police Station

Leading Sen Const Rick Janssen

NEWS FROM THE COUNCIL

Youth Awards Night will be happening online

As a result of recurring COVID-19 restrictions, we’re rescheduling the 2021 Youth Awards and will be taking the event online.

The ‘screening’ date for the Youth Awards video presentation is now Thursday October 28, at 7.30pm.

We’d be thrilled if you were able to watch along with us on the date, to hear about all the great things young people are achieving in the Macedon Ranges Shire.

To find out more go to mrsc.vic.gov.au/youthawards.

New policy to focus on affordable housing needs

The Shire Council is developing an Affordable Housing Policy that will help clarify Council’s role in affordable housing in the shire.

Affordable housing, as distinct from housing affordability or affordable living, specifically focuses on the housing needs of the very low, low and moderate income households.

It is identified as a priority area in the draft Council Plan 2021-2031 and draft Health and Wellbeing Plan 2021-2025.

As part of a state-wide program, the State Government last year announced $30 million as the minimum investment needed in the Macedon Ranges Shire to help increase social and affordable housing.

A new government agency called Homes Victoria will manage the building program.

The Mayor, Cr Jennifer Anderson, said, “This is an important piece of work required to understand the extent of affordable housing need in the shire, and to clarify the role that we can play alongside the Victorian Government in creating housing to meet that need.”

The draft policy will be presented for consideration at the October 2021 council meeting.

Grass identification webinar and field day

Do you want to be able to identify the plants in your paddocks? Are they native or exotic or are they a weed?

Join environmental scientist Graeme Lorimer for a webinar on Tuesday October 26, from 7.30pm to 9pm, followed by a field day at Darraweit Guim a few weeks later, on November 27.

To register or find out more, including programs later in the year, visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/ healthylandscapes.

Council gets $330,000 grant to help seniors connect

Macedon Ranges Shire Council has been awarded $330,000 over three years by the Australian Government’s Seniors Connected Program to fund the implementation of a Village Hub in the Macedon Ranges.

The Village Hub project will focus on bringing older people together online and in their community for activities that support good mental and physical health and enable better connections to the local community.

The project will run from 2021 to 2024. Initiatives will be designed to help alleviate loneliness and social isolation. The project will offer online connection, healthy ageing pop-up events and community-led programs.

The grant is being managed by the ILA Australia (Independent Living Assessment) organisation.

Prepare your property now for fire season

Roadside maintenance

Each year Council slashes roadsides to reduce the chance of a fire starting because of hot vehicle exhausts, mechanical failures or collisions. Typically, 80 per cent of traffic uses 20 per cent of our roads, so we slash those high-use roads as a priority.

While storm damage has left fallen trees along roadsides, the removal of firewood does not remove fine fuels, which are the main contributor to fire spreading.

The removal of firewood from roadsides is illegal and contributes very little to reducing the impact of fire.

Property inspections

The Fire Management Officer will soon begin inspecting properties for fire risk and will issue fire prevention notices where necessary.

Heavy penalties apply to owners who fail to comply with a notice. Properties are expected to be maintained to the required standard throughout the fire-danger period.

Exceptions to fire-risk regulations may be obtained from Council for those baling or grazing livestock.

Baling hay: If you plan on baling and receive a notice, just let us know by completing the application for an extension on the back of the notice.

Livestock grazing: If you are grazing stock, you must demonstrate that the number of animals is sufficient to reduce the risk.

How to benefit from 2022 Autumn Festival

Autumn may seem like a long way off, but planning at the council is well under way for the 2022 Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival.

The festival showcases the shire beyond Macedon and Mount Macedon, encouraging visitors and locals to engage in the broad range of experiences and activities on offer across the region.

Foodie businesses can also register to participate in the inaugural Autumn Pie and Tart Trail.

Angela Hughes,

director

Community groups, businesses and creatives are encouraged to start considering the opportunities to get involved and benefit from being a part of the festival.

Property management events for horse owners

The event team are taking concept submissions from all who are interested in running an activity or event and getting on the festival program.

Discussion group: on-farm in New Gisborne on Sunday October 24, 10am to 12 noon.

Come along to a meeting for horse owners who wish to improve their land, pastures, soil and the health of their horses.

The property which is hosting the event has drawn on central point yard and track systems and is using planned grazing to develop strong, healthy, diverse pastures. This management strives to contribute to biodiversity and healthy waterways while efficiently managing the horses and their health.

The event is free.

Once registered, the property address will be sent to you prior to the event.

To register or find out more, visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/ events and search 'horses'.

Webinar with equine experts Jane and Stuart Myers: Equiculture – short for equine permaculture – is a holistic horse property management program that promotes sustainable farm and pasture management techniques designed with the horse’s welfare and natural behaviour in mind. Tuesday October 12, 7.30pm to 8.30pm. Free.

To register or find out more, visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/ events and search 'horses'.



Business Advisory 

Accounting and Taxation Services 

Superannuation 

Audit and Assurance

Bookkeeping & Payroll Services

Corporate and Administrative Services 17 Nicholson Street

T: 03 5427 8100

E: info@lmck.com.au www.langleymckimmie.com.au

Funding support is available for approved event and activity concepts, while qualified arists may apply for a grant to deliver an artistic immersive experience or attraction.

The Autumn Festival will be held over one month from March 26 to April 25. So get creative, collaborate, and get on the program.

of Planning and Environment, said “Council undertook a survey asking local businesses and community for their input and ideas to help shape the 2022 festival. We had an amazing response with some fantastic suggestions."

For further festival details and key planning dates, visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/ autumn-fest or phone 5422 0333.

Bird watchers needed for Bird Blitz

Bird watchers and those interested in learning about birds are invited to take part in the annual Bird Blitz event. This year the bird surveys will be held on Saturday October 23. Bird watchers of any experience are welcome to attend the surveys.

On the day, small groups of volunteers will survey three to four sites. Each group will have a leader who is confident with bird identification from both sight and sound.

Bird watchers confident with identification may like to survey independently or lead in a small group – please let us know of your preference when booking.

Last year's Bird Blitz recorded 94 species.

Interesting sightings included five threatened species,

the first official record of brush-bronzewing pigeons, and the occurrence of unusual visitors such as the nankeen night heron and several scarlet honeyeaters.

Public attendance of this event will depend on the COVID-19 restrictions and may be subject to change.

Meeting points and details of the monitoring sites will be provided prior to the day.

We will also host an online meeting with participants in the week before the surveys to discuss sites and survey methodology.

An invitation to this meeting will be sent directly to participants. Sign up at mrsc.vic.gov. au/environment-events

For further enquiries, contact William Terry on 5421 9674 or at Wterry@mrsc.vic.gov.au

Spotted Pardalote

Scarlet Honeyeater

Gisborne & Mount Macedon Districts Historical Society

LOCAL HISTORY

A stockman remembers...

Extracts from Memoirs of a Stockman by Harry H. Peck (1860-1943).

Edited by Robin Godfrey

Harry Peck was in a unique position. When he came in his retirement to write his Memoirs, he had behind him half a century of association with Newmarket Saleyards, and could write with assurance on every major figure in the Australian pastoral industry.

Harry Peck’s son-in-law, Reg. S. Kemp, was the manager of Bolobek, the property of Oswald Syme, at the foot of Mount Macedon. It was at Bolobek, in 1942, that Peck, at the age of 81, wrote his Memoirs of a Stockman

Harry Peck wrote… “Bolobek was within three miles of where I was born at Gisborne – that village, one of the loveliest in the state, once one of the main depots of Cobb & Co on the Bendigo Road. I am indeed fortunate and thankful to have such a pleasant and interesting environment in which to write, as Bolobek runs a large registered stud flock of Romneys and fattens up to 400 bullocks a year.”

Through the good offices of Humphrey C. Dixon, Peck was able to glean particulars of the original pastoral pioneers who first settled the areas in and around the Sunbury and Gisborne districts. Dixon was the senior partner of Dixon & Son, who were well-known stock and estate agents, [and son of Henry Reed Dixon, who started the business].

Dixon had contour plans on his office walls of the first survey of the district in 1839 by Kemp, the survey of 1840 by Robert Hoddle (who laid out Melbourne) and also the survey of 1851 by Hoddle and Watson of the township of Gisborne.

Dixon also had copies of letters written by Henry Fyshe Gisborne, Commissioner of Crown Lands (after whom the town of Gisborne was named), to the Governor and other authorities in Sydney, in the first months of Gisborne’s office in 1839 to 1840. H. F. Gisborne, under the jurisdiction of the Squatting Act, established a Pound and a Police Station in a reserve of about 200 acres east of the township on the site of what was, in 1942, John N Heard’s homestead on Jackson’s Creek known as Wyabun Park.

Gisborne Court House  4 Hamilton Street Open Wednesdays 10am to 4pm  Phone 5428 1450 www.gisbornemountmacedon.org.au

Theearliest issued leases of the district were Red Stone Hill, Sunbury – 1836, Howey’s Cattle Station – 1836, Cairn Hill – 1837, all originally taken up by Henry Howey (who died in 1838); Wooling – 1840, taken up by William Robertson, Stainforth’s station – 1840, taken up by Judge Henry Stainforth (taken over in 1841 by Ross Watt) and Turritable –1842 taken up by John Sleath Hill.

Though the foregoing are the dates of the first issue of leases from the Sydney Government, it is undoubted that the first lessees squatted on their holdings before the issue of the leases, and also before H.F. Gisborne’s report.

Henry Howey was without doubt the first white settler in the Gisborne district. He chose the flat on Jackson's Creek, in the centre of the present village of Gisborne, as a site for the homestead of his Cattle Station lease. He had a hut built on the site and took up Red Stone Hill for a sheep station. Howey overlanded stock from his lease in Goulburn in 1837 and took up Cairn Hill.

At the first auction of allotments in the City of Melbourne in 1837, Howey purchased four heavily wooded lots on the corner of Swanston and Collins Streets comprising a total of two acres for the sum of £120. In 1838, Howey went back to Sydney, chartered the schooner Sarah to bring to the Gisborne district his family, servants, and

Harry Huntington Peck was born at Gisborne in 1860.

His father, John Murray Peck, an American who settled in Victoria in 1853, was one of the founding partners of Cobb & Co, the famous colonial coaching business. His mother was London-born Louisa Ellen, nee Roberts.

J M Peck later became a cattle salesman at the Newmarket Saleyards in Melbourne and was famous for a carrying voice which could be heard for half a mile.

Harry Peck became an auctioneer in January 1884. He was a tall man with a commanding presence, distinctively dressed and usually sporting a flower in his buttonhole. When he retired in 1938, he held the longest-running licence among stock salesmen of Australia.

He was a noted judge of pure stock and during his career was chairman of the Associated Stock and Station Agents of Melbourne.

all his belongings. All were lost at sea and no trace of the ship or anything aboard was ever found.

Howey’s elder brother, Captain John Werge Howey, came and wound up the Gisborne district stations. Later in 1887, a grand-nephew of Henry Howey sold the two acres of land in Melbourne, 30 years after the original purchase, for the grand sum of £1,350,000.

The Cairn Hill lease was bought in 1840 by John Carre Riddell and Thomas Ferrier Hamilton, who were cousins, together in a long partnership, when they were generally recognised as the ‘king pins’ of the district. Riddell was in Parliament from 1852 to 1877, and Hamilton, a much younger man, from 1871 to 1884. Cairn Hill was the homestead of the Riddell family and the village which took their name grew up around it, and they held on until all the run was made freehold.

Wooling, on the east side of Turritable, was taken up by William Robertson in 1840. It was, in the early days, one of the show homesteads of the district, as it is on a very rich fertile flat, was noted for its heavy crops and was planted with beautiful oaks, elms, pines and other ornamental trees, still flourishing.

Stainforth’s Cattle Station joined Howey’s Cattle Station on the north side, stretching up into the Black Forest and the sides of Mount Macedon to the north of Turritable. The run was taken up in 1840 by Henry Stainforth, a judge who had come to Victoria from

Harry H Peck in 1928, aged 68.

A stockman remembers...Memoirs of Harry H Peck

India. He sold his cattle station in 1844 to Mr Ross Watt, who formed his homestead, Rosslyn, overlooking a fertile flat and only about two miles above the Gisborne village.

In 1846, the Red Hill Station was bought by Martin Batey and Edward Flintoff – Martin Batey, and after him his son Isaac, made it their home for many years until and after the run was all freehold.

Turritable was purchased by Riddell and Hamilton in 1848. Mr Hamilton established his homestead, known as Elderslie, on the lower part of Turritable Creek and across from the Wooling Road. The township of New Gisborne at the railway station would have no doubt been at one time part of the Turritable run."

For more than half a century Harry Peck was a notable figure at Newmarket, Melbourne’s huge central stockyards. He was said to never refuse

help to those down on their luck. Though kindly and tolerant, he was a shrewd but magnanimous observer of men and events.

Peck travelled widely within Australia, making trips to central Australia in 1910, and again in 1920 with pastoralists William Manifold and William Mackinnon by car.

In 1926 he visited Britain and the continent. He died on 24 July 1943 at Wangaratta and was buried in the family grave at Will Will Rook cemetery, Broadmeadows.

(Peck's Memoirs of a Stockman offers a fascinating insight into the lives of stockmen of all kinds in Australia's history as well as providing a detailed history of livestock marketing in Victoria and parts of NSW from the 1840s to the 1940s. Copies of the book can still be found through online sources, and Gould Genealogy & History has scanned it into ebook and CD formats.)

Latest news from the Genies

The past month seems to have been a time of planning, then postponing – and not just for the Gisborne Genealogical Group. Our Celtic Day Seminar planned for August has been postponed until August 2022. Hopefully by next year we won’t have to restrict numbers.

Our outing to Ballarat PROV has also been deferred until next year. Thankfully, we did manage to conduct our first Workshop on September 11 which concentrated on the website ‘Genuki’. It was nice to be able to do something ‘normal’ again. Those who attended gained knowledge about the website and where to look for more resources to help them with their family history research.

The next workshop will be on Saturday October 2, starting at 10am. Julie Dworak will demonstrate the website ‘Scotland’s People’. The workshops are limited to 10 people. Bookings are essential – please contact Lorna on 0402 091 034.

Our room, adjoining the Gisborne Library, is open for research on Thursdays from 2pm to 5pm. (except during lockdowns). Volunteers are available to assist with your genealogical queries.

We hope we can still have our ext general meeting on Thursday October 28, when we will be looking specifically at the County of Somerset, although much of the information will be relevant to all counties in England.

We meet at 7.30pm, at the Uniting Church, Brantome Street, Gisborne. Visitors are always welcome.

Check our website to see what other activities have been planned for the rest of 2021 – www.ggg. org.au

Sacred Heart College Kyneton

Early picture of Bolobek homestead, Mt Macedon, where Peck wrote his memoirs.

Lyn Hall

Gisborne Golf Clubcelebrates centenary

Like so many other golf clubs, Gisborne’s began life in a very basic way. Initially, it shared the Garden Reserve area (now Sankey Reserve) with other sports and social activities. Some of the nine-hole links even shared the football ground – with obvious scheduling problems – however with expert advice and expenditure of 154 pounds, a redesign separated golfers from other activities about 1927.

High creek levels and floods presented a problem from time to time as the golfers’ footbridge was frequently washed away. Also, the hand-mown grass greens had to be fenced to keep grazing stock away.

The Garden Reserve site continued as the home of Gisborne Golf Club for 24 years. Unfortunately, there is little information regarding the club’s activities during this period but no doubt the Great Depression and the

2021 marks 100 years that the vision of a few and the efforts of many have developed Gisborne Golf Club into the high-standard course and facilities they are today, of which members are justifiably proud.

By Richard Barker

Second World War would have seen golf become of lesser importance to the community.

Nevertheless, on June 21, 1946, the Gisborne Gazette reported that,

“A well attended meeting of members of the Gisborne Golf Club was held on 13th June, the business being the proposal to shift the Gisborne Golf Links from the present site in the Garden

to Brady s Paddock on the Melton Road where a very suitable location exists.”

The move was made and what had been "Brady's Paddock" became the new home of the Gisborne Golf Club.

From 1946 until 1963 the Brady family accepted a nominal rental for the 180-acre site, providing sheep could continue to graze. On special golf days the sheep would be moved to an adjoining paddock.

Renowned course designer Vern Morcom was commissioned to provide a course plan, along with advice for progressive improvements over time.

Armed with Morcom’s plans, working bees began on the first nine holes.

During this time, Gisborne was only a small town and those with a love of a variety of sports played golf in the winter, and tennis or cricket in the summer. The course was closed

and left to the sheep from November to March each year, a practice that continued until the mid-1960s.

In 1963 the club negotiated to buy the property from the Brady family on advantageous terms for which members have been and will be eternally grateful. Through the late '60s and '70s, things moved rapidly.

The first stage of the clubhouse was built; a liquor licence was granted, and an upgraded course design was provided by Messrs E Horne and H Brown.

Latterly made a Life Member, Ray Keane was appointed the first Course Curator in 1970 and remained in that role until 2003. Under his supervision

the construction of grass greens began in 1971, thus marking the end of sheep grazing.

By the end of the 1970s, plentiful dams had been constructed; an automatic watering system installed, and with all 18 greens in play, golf at Gisborne became a 12-month activity.

Over time, the fairways have been planted with couch grass, the clubhouse extended, the interior recently renovated, practice facilities upgraded and expanded, and catering and function operations modernised.

Now one hundred years have passed.

To all those who have played a part in the emergence of Gisborne Golf Club as a truly wonderful club, all the members both past and present cannot thank you enough.

The club today

The local community knows and experiences every day the glorious environment that this area offers. It is at times hard to maintain concentration when playing golf at Gisborne; each round offers fabulous scenic views, a diversity of flora and birdlife, and hundreds of Eastern Grey kangaroos that quite happily co-exist on the course.

Occasionally the roos will emit a grunt of disapproval when assessing a golfer ’s poor shot, but willingly move away to make room if a ball has ended up amidst the mob.

But concentrate you must. The course is challenging; no two holes are similar, bunkers are plentiful, the greens are true but quite small targets and the fairways demand accuracy from the tees. The signature 16th hole and its wondrous view of the Ranges has to be seen to be believed.

The club's independently operated Pro shop offers everything that is required. The teaching professionals are of the highest calibre and online booking is available for members and visitors.

The future

Gisborne Golf Club is well poised to continue building upon what has gone before, to grow the club and provide a welcoming environment for new members and guests.

There are a number of initiatives including teaching clinics for new players as well as those wanting to hone their skills or return to the game. Resident professional Matthew Duncan also conducts clinics at schools in the region.

Funday Monday, hosted by the women members, is a very successful pathway into the game for those simply wanting to give it a try. Nine holes on Monday mornings is encouraged by current women members – for a nominal fee of $10 followed by a good coffee and cake in the clubhouse.

The clubhouse is also proving increasingly popular as a destination for locals looking for a new dining experience. Earlier this year, the club joined with Gisborne Golf Events, a local professional catering company, to provide extensive dining facilities and expand the bistro and function opportunities. This is having a positive impact on attracting locals and visitors to enjoy the extensive menu and to simply enjoy the environment of “The View” – indoors or outdoors.

Organised kangaroo tours have been introduced with club volunteers

hosting visitors including from overseas countries. Details are on the club website.

The club recently welcomed the Gisborne/Macedon sub-Branch of the RSL to share the club facilities. This arrangement provides part of the clubhouse as their “club room” for the display of memorabilia, and use of the bar and dining facilities for RSL members and their guests. The club is looking forward to developing a strong and successful relationship with the RSL and indeed other community groups where there is a mutual benefit.

Each year, the club presents a series of entertainments, including music groups, comedy and trivia nights, all of which are proving popular. We are proud hosts for both public and private functions as the clubhouse and its facilities gain attention as an excellent venue for events large and small. If you would like to have a look around, we are very happy to showcase our facilities and offer a warm welcome. Come for a chat, come for lunch, come and play golf with us. We may be 100 years old, but we continue to have the same enthusiasm to be part of what Gisborne has to offer its community and visitors as those pioneers who started us on the journey.

Teaching clinic... ...and a resident course kangaroo

Kangaroo tour

Dining experience.

Reserve

HEALTH & WELLBEING

A century of Gazette columns

This month we celebrate our 100th column for the Gisborne Gazette! How many other community organisations can lay claim to that?

We are very grateful to the Gazette for all those opportunities to tell you about our activities providing local men of all ages with a place to go, someone to talk to and something to do.

We first reported to you more than 10 years ago from our old shed in Neal Street, then lost that shed and reported from our temporary meeting place in the Courthouse for over a year. Since then, we’ve kept you up to date with events in our current Lyell Street shed, and also away from it during the many weeks we’ve been COVID closed.

From each of those venues we’ve kept you up to date on community activities and projects and sought

The Men's Shed has hardly missed a month since they began supplying their news to the community. your support for our fundraising events including the “World’s Greatest Shave” for Leukemia Australia and, in between COVID lockdowns late last year, our Cubby House Raffle in support of the Gisborne Foodbank. Through all that activity, over 120 local men have had their lives touched by our Shed, while drinking a truckload of tea and coffee.

We can only pat ourselves on the back for a few minutes, then we’re back to work building the cubby house for this year’s Foodbank fundraiser (get your raffle ticket money ready).

We look forward to submitting the next 100 columns to let you know what’s going on inside 10 Lyell Street on Monday and Thursday mornings.

MECHANICAL SERVICES PTY. LTD.

PHONE: 0448 197 555

Family owned and operated, with over 25 years’ experience

Full Mobile Workshop

Onsite Service and Repairs

Servicing Macedon Ranges and Surrounds

 Forklifts – all makes and models

 Light Trucks

 Mini Loaders & Excavators

 Replacement tyres and rubber tracks

 Hydraulic repairs

 Full diagnostic scan tools

 Engine and transmission overhaul and rebuilds

 Scheduled maintenance

 Emergency breakdowns

 Mini Loader Hire also available!

 Based in Riddells Creek

Youth Clinic is on the move

The Macedon Ranges Youth Clinic, which provides mental, physical and sexual health support and advice to young people 12-25 years, has been running at its current site at 76 Hamilton Street Gisborne for the past six years, and it’s time for a change.

The clinic will be moving to its new address at Unit 1/65 Robertson Street, Gisborne, from October 6.

The Youth Clinic is a free health

service run by Macedon Ranges Health, with a Community Health Nurse and GP available to provide general health care, support, advice and education in a confidential and safe setting.

The clinic is open on Wednesdays from 3.45pm to 5.45pm during school term. While pandemic restrictions continue, appointments are required by calling 5428 0300.

All abilities dance class on the agenda

When the COVID restrictions finally allow for indoor recreation activities to resume, Macedon Ranges Shire Council will be subsidising a dance class for all abilities on Mondays in the Macedon Community Centre.

The dance program will focus on providing optimal movement activities, achievable for all abilities, based on stimulating the senses to encourage positive brain development, and set within a narrative to inspire the children to express themselves through movement and music, to stimulate their imagination and their general wellbeing.

Two classes will be on offer: for children; and for pre-teens and teens. Thanks to the council, the programs are free of charge, with limited spaces available.

Please call Sheryn on 0419 336 196 if

Free dance classes will start once COVID indoor restrictions permit.

you’re interested in registering for a trial. It’s wonderful that our local council recognises the need to support young people within our community.

Sheryn Zarins

BETTY'S BOOP

With Betty Doolan

This time lockdown seems to be harder although we had Pyjama Day and Wear Purple Day and the Cheese and Wine Days are a great success. Residents love the cooking with Kate, Mary and Kay; these ladies always cook something nice and residents all share what is cooked.

The Oaks has a new chef called Ben and he has introduced a nice menu, like Irish stew, garlic bread, bread rolls, corned beef with mustard sauce, hot desserts and many more. I would like to ask why all our chefs seem to be called Ben. Over the many months of lockdown, residents have received many gifts. Recently I have been shopping online with IGA and with our order, residents received a plastic container with a couple of frosted donuts. On the bottom of the box a message read “Made fresh today to brighten your day. With love from all of Morgan’s IGA (heart).” Thank you to all the wonderful staff at IGA Gisborne from the Oaks.

At the moment I am sitting looking out the dining room windows and watching seven or eight large gum trees blowing in a very strong wind. The trees have almost an arc shape. The sun is still shining and it is very cold – this is Melbourne’s famed four seasons in one day.

A concerned resident was walking down by the creek and saw a dog not on a lead chasing the ducks and the ducklings. He tried to chase the dog away but it was too fast for him. Around the creek area we must be responsible for all the animals.

A special treat for our residents: one of the lovely ladies from the kitchen, Fran made us (at her home) ice cream in those small cups with a cone in the middle. Not only did they look good, but they tasted so good. Thanks, Fran.

Stay safe,

Works making a difference at Mount Macedon

And maybe there is more we can do

Betty

Have you recently undergone a procedure and need short-term support to help you stay independent at home?

Talk to us today or learn more by visiting mrh.org.au/hacc-pyp

You will have noticed the roundabout beautification at the freeway entrance/ exit. As previously mentioned in the Gazette, there are still some deciduous trees to be planted along the road verges. There were mixed reviews on the Macedon and Mount Macedon Residents Facebook page in September, but overall it’s looking good so far.

MACEDON MUSINGS

Council will continue the upkeep of the area once it is finished. As they are doing so, local walker Nunoi has a suggestion for further improvement works.

Nunoi and friend, Chris, are two of many regular walkers along the Mount Macedon Road dirt track.

They believe it is really the only safe option. The road itself has narrow shoulders, many double lines and lots of traffic. So it’s “off road” they go.

During the wet winter months, the track itself becomes so boggy, slippery and marsh-like, it's almost impossible to walk along, but it is the only safe option.

Both Nunoi and her husband have suggested to Macedon Ranges Shire Council that a properly constructed footpath be installed along Honour Avenue, continuing along Mount Macedon Road. The suggestion was also submitted to Mary-Anne Thomas MP. This would give walkers, runners and riders alike a much safer, drier option. It would be better for cars also to have fewer of us on the road.

Nunoi strongly urges anyone else supporting the idea of this track to contact the council or their local member.

A big thank you also to the anonymous local who installed the foot bridge on the corner of McBean Avenue and Mount Macedon Road. This corner is made so much easier to navigate when the bridge is there. At the time of writing, it had disappeared again…hopefully to reappear soon?

And it is not just the kids who enjoyed finding Wally (see page 6). I was delighted to find him in McBean Avenue. It’s the little things that get us all through lockdown. Thanks Mount Macedon Primary School.

With Belinda Carlton-Doney

Nunoi Stockton and Chris McMennemin have ideas for improved walking conditions beside Mount Macedon Road.

Put your best foot forward...

By Julie Ireland

A regular article about general health

You know how it went, COVID-19 came along, we all started working from home, and we were overjoyed that we would never have to squeeze our feet into work shoes again (at least for the foreseeable future). I lived a life of Zoom meetings in my trackie pants and fluffy slippers. Summer came and bare feet were the footwear de jour and when winter in the Macedon Ranges hit, I traded up to the stylish ugg boot. This foot freedom

Information sessions on Home Care Packages

For those preferring to receive help at home rather than go into an aged facility as they get older, the federal Home Care Package scheme provides funds to individuals to help them access services which will enable them to live safely and independently at home.

The types of services that can be bought include exercise groups, help with housework, gardening and maintenance, assistance with shopping or transport and healthcare supports such as podiatry and physiotherapy.

Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health has been a Home Care Package provider in Sunbury for the past four years and is expanding its service to include residents of the Macedon Ranges.

The organisation is holding an information session on Tuesday October 5 on the types of services that can be purchased through the packages and about My Aged Care, which is the access point for government-funded aged care services.

For bookings or more information, call 9744 4455 or email hcp@scchc. org.au.

The sessions are open to anyone seeking more information about Home Care Packages including family members or service providers. In response to the Royal Commission into aged care, the Federal Government in May announced 80,000 extra home care packages would be available over the next two years.

felt liberating, especially during a time where we had no freedom to leave the house.

But alas, my joy was shortlived. It took a few months, but I –like many other people according to podiatrist reports – finally succumbed to what is being called ‘ugg boot foot’. Yes, it’s really a thing.

Foot injuries and foot pain are on the rise, caused by our new habit of walking around the house on hard floors for hours on end

Health Talk Health Talk

COVID:

Thispandemic has put our collective lives on hold for almost two years now. Australians are now being vaccinated with the Astra Zeneca, Pfizer and Moderna vaccines. Of those that are eligible to be vaccinated in the Macedon Ranges, 85.3% have had one dose and 57% have had both doses. Statewide, 76.91% have had one dose and 46.95% have had both doses.

If this pace of vaccination continues in Victoria, we will hit the transition phase in early November at which over 70% are fully vaccinated. In this phase, the aim would be to minimise serious illness, hospitalisation and fatality from the virus. Restrictions would reduce accordingly.

The aim would be to continue vaccinating and prepare for possible booster shots. Lockdowns would be less likely. Vaccinated residents would have fewer restrictions. Quarantine requirements for the vaccinated would ease. There would be less restriction on businesses. International travel might start to resume.

It is important to understand that we will start seeing exposure sites all around us soon as restrictions are

Residents of Gisborne have been magnificent in coming forward to get vaccinated. It’s one of the reasons why the Macedon Ranges is amongst the areas with the highest vaccination rates in the state.

At the time of writing, based on the latest data, almost 80% of eligible residents in the Ranges had received their first dose. This is a testament to the huge collective effort Gisborne has put in to protect our community.

In some further good news, the

in bare feet or in slippers or ugg boots that have no support and poor sole structure. Indoor workouts, now commonly conducted with bare feet, are also contributing to our work-from-home-feet issues.

Wearing supportive shoes will not only protect you from stubbing your toe or falling as you run to the kitchen to make your morning latte before the next Zoom meeting but can also reduce the risk of overuse injuries such as

plantar fasciitis, stress fractures and Achilles tendonitis.

No one is saying you have to walk around the house in threeinch heels while working from home, stylish as that may be when teamed with tracksuit pants and a sweatshirt, but wearing shoes with some support will certainly go a long way to keeping your feet pain free. So don’t let working from home de-feet you! Take care of yourselves, everyone.

Where to now? with Dr

lifted. Workplaces, businesses, schools and other sites will be involved. This will eventually become less important when everyone is vaccinated. There will be different precautions that may be advised for these exposure sites, where deep cleaning will happen, and things will be allowed to restart quickly. This will allow some normality and certainty to return.

Again, if the current pace of vaccination continues, the consolidation phase would begin in late November, when 80% are fully vaccinated. At this stage there will be minimum ongoing baseline restrictions. There will be only highly targeted lockdowns. The vaccination booster program would be in full swing. International travel freedoms would be greater, including for returning Australians who are fully vaccinated.

Once we reach the final stages of vaccination, where most of the population is vaccinated, COVID would be managed much like influenza. We will have to learn to live with COVID and hopefully, serious illness due to COVID will not be prevalent. People at the extremes of age, immunocompromised people and those with serious chronic conditions

MEMBER'S MESSAGE

With Mary-Anne Thomas

Station-Saunders Road upgrade is progressing at pace. With footpaths, bluestone paving and the top road layers to be completed soon, the upgrade is well on its way to being completed ahead of schedule. When completed, the project will reduce congestion at

Julie

Umair Masood

will still be at risk from COVID, much like influenza. Yearly boosters, much like the flu jab, will most likely happen in the future.

As restrictions ease in the next few months, we will see case numbers go up despite people being vaccinated. This is to be expected and is reflected in other countries. Unfortunately, we will have some fatalities. However, the vast majority of people who get infected will have only flu-like illnesses. The important part of this would be that our intensive care beds will not be inundated, and the health system will cope.

This would mean that the health emergency we have had will cease. The state of emergency declarations will come to an end. We will also stop hearing about daily case numbers.

It will take some readjusting to the post-COVID world.

There have been a lot of negative psychological stressors on everyone during COVID times. Fear of the unknown, loneliness, boredom, anger, confusion, anxiety and depression have been prevalent.

Let’s look forward to the good old days returning as there is light at the end of the tunnel now. Plan for this and give yourself some time to recover.

this increasingly busy intersection, particularly during the peak hour rush, while boosting safety for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.

It has also been an exciting time for the Willowbank Primary School community, with recruitment for teaching positions well underway. Principal Rynn Anderson and Assistant Principal Brett Sinnett have also been hard at work meeting local families and students. It is fantastic to see Gisborne’s new school taking shape!

Vet Talk

with Dr Caitlin Horwood-Skelton

A treat for us can be bad for our pets

Dogs and cats would feed themselves sufficiently, as creatures of their habitat, if people were not around. If they have the capacity or the opportunity to take freely, or hunt or scavenge or avail themselves of a health-giving food habit, they will take up on what is on offer, and make the best of what they have, to live the dream life.

Humans are creatures of habit: we like to know we’ll have three square meals a day. Yet we also value the choice to add a little treat. A chocolate here, or some hot chips there. We have to remind ourselves sometimes, that “chocolate is not good for dogs”.

A little treat for us is a potential toxin for your pet. Avoid offering human foods which may be high in salt or fat. These risk pancreatitis or gastrointestinal upsets.

Fried onions might give a delightful kitchen aroma, but they are a disaster for your dog or cat. Macadamia nuts can cause serious toxic reactions, as can the humble grape or raisins (so NO sharing your fruit toast or Christmas pudding).

When your dog gives you that “feed me” look, consider that he might not need to eat, but just wants a "treat” from you; perhaps a pat or a play is a better option.

Your dog might really prefer a walk or a play.

Dipper Diaries by

May Zarins, 11

Thursday September 23, 2021

It was an ordinary day, a Monday to be exact, it was around 10am and for some strange reason Boy Fingers and Girl Fingers were home, they’ve been home quite a while now, about two weeks.

I’m not sure why; they don’t seem sick at all.

Nearly every day, around 9am, Girl Fingers stares at her glowing device and talks to it! It’s quite odd because noone is in the room and I don’t think she was speaking to me because she wasn’t looking at me. Once I thought there was an actual person in the glowing device.

So I tried to investigate but that ended up with me out on my tush on the deck.

They are here every day now and almost every day they take me on walks. I mean, personally I love walks, but my little legs can’t handle that much!

It’s becoming quite a habit now and I’m beginning to think they are wagging school. Every day! Should I be worried about their wellbeing? As the family dog I take my responsibilities very seriously. I can’t believe I only spotted this issue recently. Even though it was quite obvious.

Okay, even humans can’t be that forgetful, it’s been three weeks now. Something's definitely up. – XOXO

'A Biodiversity Crisis: Animals and Plants of the Macedon Ranges' Exhibition

At least 376 animal species and 1,457 varieties of native plants have been recorded in the Macedon Ranges. But the region is facing a biodiversity crisis, with many threatened species at risk of extinction.

An interactive exhibition launched at the Kyneton Museum last month showcases the flora and fauna of the Macedon Ranges while exploring the threats to our biodiversity and what we can do to help.

‘A Biodiversity Crisis: Animals

and Plants of the Macedon Ranges’ brings together a collection of historical accounts of local species and photographs. Get up close with a collection of animal specimens or peek inside some natural tree hollows to see who lives inside.

The exhibition will run until February 27 next year. Entry fees: Adult $5.10, Senior/Concession $3.10, Family $10.20. No prior booking is required.

The Museum is open Friday, Saturday, Sunday, 11am to 4pm.

GisBus service started from humble beginnings

Since GisBus began providing services in 2009, one of the key changes has been the evolution of the vehicle fleet.

The initial Gisbus fleet consisted of a 21-seat Toyota Coaster, a 20-seat

and a 17-seat Toyota Coaster, with a 12-seater as a spare, to cope with an estimated passenger load of 200 passengers per month.

Just before COVID dramatically changed commuting requirements, the original 200 a month had grown to almost 5000.

To cope with those passengers, the fleet has grown to include five Mitsubishi Rosas

with 24 seats, also providing a smoother ride.

Following a recent successful trial, a new bus with automatic transmission and integrated wheelchair access will soon join the fleet and will primarily run on our 473 Route, including weekends.

Remember, all our services run through the centre of town so now

that all the shops are open again it is a convenient way to go into the Gisborne CBD. If you are not connecting with a train, the cost of the trip is $2.40 ($1.20 concession).

Travel times continue to be affected by roadworks, mostly on Station Road, and, as we remind travellers each month, masks must still be worn when travelling on public transport, except for children under 12 and individuals with a valid medical exemption.

One of the first of the fleet.

Banjo. Master of the 'Feed Me' look.

Book Week at Swinburne Avenue jokes and riddles

Doctor, doctor, I keep forgetting everything.

How long has this been going on? How long has what been going on?

What’re the odds of something exciting happening at 12.50pm? 10 to 1

I went on a diet of just coconuts and bananas.

Didn’t lose any weight but, boy, can I climb trees!

Where are the Andes?

At the end of your armies.

What? You didn’t know that Captain Cook discovered Australia?

I didn’t even know it was lost.

Who were the first men to make an aeroplane that didn’t work? The Wrong brothers.

What were the painting’s last words? First they frame me then they hang me.

The lockdown did not deter the kids from getting into the spirit of Book Week at Swinburne Avenue Kindergarten.

This year’s theme, ‘Old Worlds, New Worlds, Other Worlds’ inspired many fantastic dress-ups that spanned continents and eras. From dinosaurs to princesses to futuristic beings; all were represented.

Whether children were at home or onsite, they shared photos of their costumes, took part in literacy activites and, of course… read lots of books!

spot the difference

It was a wonderful celebration that connected families during a challenging time. It was also a chance to recognise the talented authors, illustrators and publishers who created this year’s CBCA Books of the year.

The 2021 winner in the Early Childhood category was No! Never! written by Libby Hathorn and Lisa Hathorn-Jarman and illustrated by Mel Pearce. Well done to all the Swinburne Ave families who got involved!

Can you find 10 differences between these pictures of cheery frogs? There's some colouring fun here too – try colouring one side in lifelike colours, then make the other as weird as you like!

junior QUIZ

. What is the next biggest size of paper after A4?

In cricket, how many runs are scored for a “boundary"?

What is the largest planet in the Solar System?

Architect Walter Burley Griffin designed which Australian city?

Who wrote the lines, “To be or not to be, that is the question”?

Beginning with “F”, in

which section of the library would you find story books?

7 Who was Australia’s first Prime Minister?

8 When dipped in an acid solution, litmus paper turns what colour?

9 What was the name of the Australian Prime Minister who disappeared from Cheviot Beach in 1966?

10 Which US state was bought from Russia for two cents an acre?

Answers page 39

Shannon Ingleton

Alistair (below) is a happy pirate.

Ash as Peter Rabbit, with carrot at the ready.

'Whizz-Bang Wednesday' esday' was spectacular

SCHOOL'S IN

All the students of St Brigid’s participated in Whizz-Bang Wednesday on September 8. Our theme for the day was movies, so in the morning, we went to school and collected our Whizz-Bang movie packs. In the packs was a cup for popcorn, an activity book, a microwave popcorn bag, and an assortment of lollies including Fantails and Maltesers.

S Brigid's

We were allowed to watch whatever movie we wanted to.

That Sunday was also Father’s Day, so one of our teachers put out a delicious Japanese crepe recipe for our dads. It was such a fun day and we are so lucky to have our amazing specialist teachers that put lots of effort into organising things like this.

Abi Phegan and Summer Busby

Remote learning doesn’t stop fun at New Gisborne

Last month we entered lockdown again. During lockdown we do remote learning.

In the mornings we have a class Webex meeting with our teacher. We mark the roll, our teacher shares their screen and in Year 3, we play a game where we are shown two baby photographs of our classmates and we have to guess who they are.

We also have jokes of the day. Our teachers tell us our daily schedule and then we go and do reading and writing lessons. We pop back in to see our teachers when we have questions or want to discuss something.

We come back to our Webex meeting later to find out about our maths lesson. In the afternoons we have our specialist subjects. We earn house points by participating in activities for PE, Indonesian, Performing Arts and Visual Art.

I have participated in fitness challenges, played a game where I had to eat a prawn cracker from a string, acted out scenes and created surrealist artworks and more.

We also have themed days. We have had Crazy Hair Day when I had a hairstyle of two cupcakes. I got two patty pans, cut a hole in the bottom and stuck my two ponytails through them. I twisted the ponytails and used a hair tie to do it up. I also put in hair spray.

For Book Week I dressed up as Wren from Wings of Fire. I had a dirty yellow

t-shirt and jeans. My mum made me a cardboard sword wrapped in tin foil. I also carried a red bag across my shoulder.

My favourite thing about remote learning is that I can grab snacks whenever I want. My least favourite thing is that I can’t see my friends and don’t have as much fun at break times.

It will be good to go back to school so we can see our friends and play games together.

Ivy, Year 3 reporter

'A Biodiversity Crisis: Animals and plants of the Macedon Ranges'

Schools are encouraged to express interest in participating in educational workshops and talks associated with this interactive local biodiversity exhibition.

The Macedon Ranges is facing

a biodiversity crisis, with many threatened species at risk of extinction.

An interactive exhibition at the Kyneton Museum showcases the unique flora and fauna of the

Macedon Ranges while exploring threats to our biodiversity and what we can do to help.

To arrange for school groups, call 1300 888 802 or email us at museum@mrsc.vic.gov.au

Why is it important to keep on top of media?

Traditional media, social media, media, you’ve probably heard of all of them before. What’s so important about them? Well, the media is a good source of news, and here are a few things to keep an eye out for…

Bias: The media can be biased. What is bias? You may be asking. Well, bias is when someone is leaning towards an opinion. So, if the news is biased, and lots of people see it, they’ll become biased too. Sort of like a hivemind.

Fake news: “Nintendo has just bought Sony and Xbox.” This is an example of fake news. It’s news that’s fake. It never happened, occurred, existed, etc. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Or, if it sounds too crazy, it also probably is.

Differentiate fact and opinion: This is a little bit similar to bias, but when looking at a news article, you need to find fact and opinion. Words like “I think, should, could, in my opinion,” are all opinion words. Because that is what the person wants and thinks should happen. Facts are something that has been confirmed to have happened, or to be happening.

Social media is not very reliable: If an online influencer on TikTok says that Elon Musk is implementing microchips in dogs to track where you live, will you believe them?

Usually, what influencers say is not very reliable, as it is usually opinion or said so they can get their way or, even worse, for money. Don’t listen only to what online people say!

Being critical of the media, of what we see, read and hear, is really important. Make sure you ask the right questions of the media that you see, read and hear.

This will mean that your eyes are open (metaphorically) and you will be able to make informed choices and decisions about what you think is, and should be, happening.

Ryan McClurkin

Summer Abi

Students are invited to follow the red brick road by staff in Wizard of Oz costumes on the morning of movie day at St Brigid’s.

Crazy Hair Day at New Gisborne Primary School

Wellbeing Wednesday offers some egg-cellent learning Online workshops inspire Gisborne

Primary students

Budding writers learn from the best

Thirty Year 5 and 6 students from regional Victoria participated in a writing workshop run by Sue Whiting, an Australian author known for books such as Missing and The Book of Chance, on September 14.

The workshop focused on teaching students how to write an engaging and interesting narrative with different plots and fascinating characters. Sue gave us different writing tasks throughout the day including writing for five minutes without thinking (stream of consciousness), show don’t just tell to describe a messy room and designing a character for a specific setting, including their personality, hobbies and backstory.

Sue was a fabulous and inspiring teacher and I know everyone was grateful for the opportunity to become better writers.

Emily McKernan, Year 5

Writing workshop with Susanne Gervay

Ten Gisborne Primary School students from Year 3/4 joined a writing workshop with other students from the region on September 8.

The Zoom was run by author Susanne Gervay, who wrote the I am Jack series. In the session we worked on our skills to make our writing better.

Everyone wrote a story, and we broke it into parts so that Susanne could give us tips on that part of the story. When we reached the climax there were some picture prompts of natural disasters to help us with our problem.

We all enjoyed improving our writing and the story we wrote was probably one of our best. She told us that when you are writing a story, good writers are never finished, and there is always room for improvement.

It was an awesome experience and we were sad that it had to end.

Harper French, Year 4

Some Gisborne Primary students were lucky enough to participate in the Royal Botanical Gardens 'Designed by Nature' workshop on September 2.

This workshop was all about educating young students about the way many designs have come from nature. There were students from lots of different schools and more than 100 students attended the Zoom – all from the comfort of our own homes.

We watched a video about a train in Japan called the Bullet Train and how it was inspired by the shape of the kingfisher’s beak.

We then learned about different types of plants and their properties. It was very interesting and the host told us about how the Eiffel Tower was also inspired by nature, by a bone in the leg. At the end we had to design our own invention based on a golden torch cactus, which is native to Mexico.

Thank you to the teachers who organised this fantastic opportunity for students.

Tessa Smith, Year 5

We are so proud of our students and families with the way they have embraced remote learning again. They are mastering Google Classroom, SeeSaw and emails to find all the information they need for the day. Everyone adjusts to lots of different ways of communicating with each other about their learning. We are amazed at how well everyone adapts so quickly going from learning at school to learning at home and then back again!

It also means lots of time spent in front of a screen listening to teachers and classmates which requires a lot of patience and organisation.

On Wednesday of the last week of term, Grades 3 to 6 had a day off screens for their wellbeing.

Our children on site at school were able to use our unique learning environment to spend time in the vegetable garden, check in with our animals and do some art and craft.

We hope to see all our students and families back at school in Term 4.

Scholarships open for 2022 university starters

The team at Community Bank Gisborne & District congratulates Year 12s for making it through the tough past two years and encourages students in the local area who plan to start university next year to apply for a 2022 Community Bank scholarship.

Applications have opened online at https://bit.ly/ uni2022 to allow students to work on them before exams, then complete them once they receive their ATAR and preferred university offer.

Scholarships of $5000 will be available for students who live in postcodes 3431, 3437, 3438, 3440 and 3441, completed VCE in 2021 or 2020, and have been offered a full-time place at an Australian university in a bachelor’s degree course starting in 2022.

In past years, scholarships of one-year (total $5000) and three-year (total $15,000) duration have been awarded.

Unlike some other scholarships that focus on academic results, key selection criteria for Community Bank scholarships are any challenges applicants face when starting university, and community involvement or interest. As the scholarship is only open to students from the Gisborne

Gisborne Bendigo Bank manager Sarah Barton with the branch’s 2021 university scholarship students Nicole Brideson, Shannon Kelly, Maddison Galea and Isobel Watson.

area, the chances of being successful are also much higher than for most other scholarships, so the branch team says, “Go for it!”

For more information, email mrcepublicrelations@ gmail.com or call in to the Gisborne Bendigo Bank branch. To stay up to date on the scholarships and get reminders before applications close, like the branch Facebook page, facebook.com/ communitybankgisbornedistrict

Kellie McDonald

Grace Cooper feeds the school chickens.

London Vassallo helped weed the vegetable garden in time for some spring planting.

Kaitlyn Aquilina cleaned and dated the eggs.

Grace and Kaitlyn also enjoyed doing chalk drawings for their wellbeing day.

Harper

Emily

Tessa

NAPLAN results on the rise at GSC

At GSC, it is a priority to recognise the efforts and achievements of our students throughout the year in various forms.

The recent release of NAPLAN results has afforded us a significant opportunity to celebrate as a college community. Across both year levels that participate in the national assessment program at the secondary school level (Years 7 and 9), we have bucked the trend for the state with a rise in our results across the various capabilities tested.

We are thrilled to be able to acknowledge both high achievement and high growth of a number of students. All families have been personally contacted by Russell Wigginton, Assistant Principal, Junior School, and the students who have demonstrated high growth have been sent a certificate signed by the Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, James Merlino, to congratulate them on their achievement.

Well done to all students who participated in NAPLAN this year, and their families for their support. As a community we should all feel very proud of these results.

OVERALL RESULTS, TOP 20

YEAR 7

Angus C

Annaliese G-T

Archie D-H

Asher K

Bridie H

Callum B

Charlie F

YEAR 9

Ashlie M

Ben V E

Brooke S

Charlotte J

Finnegan C

Gemma D-H

Hannah B-S

YEAR 7 (top 3)

Numeracy

Noah W

Charlie F

Thomas F

Elias R

Emily A

Jack F

Jack I

Jye S

Matilda B C

Noah D

Hannah W

Holly R

Imani A

Jesse D

Lucas K-J

Madeline W

Matilda W

Grammar & Punctuation

Matilda BC

Archie D-H

Bridie H

Spelling

Sadie H

Matilda BC

Noah D

Writing

Asher K

Matilda BC

Skyler K

Reading

Charlie F

Jack I

Matilda BC

MAKING A GAME

Lockdown has been pretty boring recently, so I decided to do something with a friend to make it better.

On the platform “Roblox” you can create games from scratch. I know a lot about scripting and programming, and I have a friend who's really good at building. We put our skills together and ended up creating a kind of “successful” game.

It is called “RSS Time Trial”. RSS stands for the development studio, RedSphere Studios. The game concept is very basic. It consists of a bunch of simple obstacle courses which players must complete as fast as possible. The 10 fastest players get their names on a leader board.

That’s the whole game essentially. Super super basic, but functional, and surprisingly, the players loved it!

The game wasn’t actually supposed to go public when it did. The planned release was not for a long time. I had opened up the game to our QA testers, and inserted a script that would kick anyone who wasn’t a QA tester out of the game.

At first, it seemed things were going

Noah W

Rose D

Sadie H

Skyler K

Sophie M

William B

Maya M-W

Ned E

Patrick J

Stacie T

Tristan D

Zoe B

YEAR 9 (top 3)

Numeracy

Lucas K-J

Ben V E

Jordan B

Grammar & Punctuation

Charlotte J

Finnegan C

Madeline W

Spelling

Patrick J

Stacie T

Holly R

Writing

Brooke S

Zoe B

Jesse D

Reading

Gemma D-H

Lucas K-J

Ashlie M

Ashton's 'RSS Time Trial' game.

YOUNG BEAT

with Asher Kroon

smoothly. Then we realised the script had indeed not functioned as it was intended, and kicked the QA testers out of the game instead of the regular players!

We had 20 players in game in the first 30 minutes of the “accidental” launch and an estimated 100 visits in the first hour. It was pretty amazing to see it grow this fast.

At this point, 2617 people have visited the game. It hasn’t earned much in revenue as most of our money comes from player donations, but so far we have earned 302 robux (in-game currency) which converts to roughly $3.96. It’s hardly anything, but considering it came from 17 players who loved the game so much they went so far as to donate, it’s not bad. And the nearly $4 seems like a lot more in in-game currency!

I strongly encourage anyone who has an interest in game development to learn scripting/ programming as it is very useful.

I recommend starting with Python then moving on to Roblox Lua (Roblox’s scripting language). Python is very helpful when you are starting out, as it can help teach you the basics. I know Python and Roblox Lua fluently, while only knowing JavaScript and HTML to a basic level.

Newsagent fondly remembered

Obituary

John Kelly 8-1-1944 18-8-2021

John Kelly will be fondly remembered by many in the community as the face of the Gisborne Newsagency for the past 30 years, having taken over the business from the Morrow family in 1991. Midtown Lotto was opened 20 years ago.

John was born in Finley, NSW, in 1944. He was the sixth of nine children and lived in Tocumwal, NSW, where he attended primary school, followed by high school in Finley.

John Kelly

John met his wife Wendy in Sea Lake, Victoria, where he worked in the State Bank. He drove tractors on wheat farms at nights to supplement his bank income.

After he was transferred to a bank branch in Melbourne, he hitchhiked back to Sea Lake at weekends as often as he could to see Wendy.

John and Wendy were married in 1967 and moved to Gisborne in 1975 with their two daughters, Penelope and Rebecca.

John was always an extremely hard worker,

mostly working two jobs at a time. When he was at the State Bank at Albert Park, he worked at weekends at the Southern Cross Hotel in Bourke Street.

He continued to work shifts at the Southern Cross after he transferred to the Gisborne State Bank branch, and later did night work at Williamson's (Foodworks) supermarket.

He still made time to be a wonderful father and husband. He was very involved in St Brigid’s PFA during the years the girls were at the school in Gisborne in the late '70s and early '80s.

John was a kind, loyal and friendly person and was an avid Essendon Bombers fan.

He was blessed with a great sense of humour and a cheeky grin, and his greatest love was his family.

John was working right up until he passed away.

Wendy, Pene, Becc and their families have been overwhelmed with the support from the Gisborne community following John’s unexpected and sudden passing and the family are very grateful for the kindness shown towards them. RIP John.

SCOUTING

Cake in a mug, anyone?

Gisborne Lightning Guides spent three weeks in the last month of term meeting online once again. This allowed the girls to still be connected socially and supports their wellbeing. One of the online challenges was a quiz based on the initials BP. BP represents BadenPowell which was the family that started Scouts and Guides and is also the abbreviation for Be Prepared.

All of the answers to the quiz started with either a b or a p. The girls also learnt to make a cake in a mug which they enjoyed whilst chatting together.

We are disappointed that the state camp to be held at Britannia Park in the September holidays has been postponed until January.

Members are crossing their fingers this will go ahead and we can attend.

We were very excited to be able to meet in the hall again for our last session of Term 3.

Deb Fleming

If you are aged 8 to 12 and would like to try Guiding phone Deb on 0409 542 619 for details. We meet on Thursday nights between 5pm and 6:30pm at the hall in Daly Reserve.

Recipe for cake in a mug: Using a mug and a tablespoon, mix together four of self-raising flour, one of sugar, one of cocoa, three of milk and two of oil. Add some chocolate chips if desired. Cook in microwave for about 75 seconds. Best eaten with a scoop of ice cream. Deb Fleming

New Gisborne (Church of Christ) Scouts

September has been challenging, with few opportunities to meet. But we remember our Law and Promise, living out “love thy neighbour”. Some of our Cub Scouts earned a special COVID award for looking after others. Our thoughts and prayers continue for COVID workers.

We are excited with the progress on our Scout Hut. Donations are welcome and tax deductible.

Scouts are fundraising to help our contingent attend the 2021-22 VicJam. The fundraising committee had another successful virtual Bake Sale in September with around $950 in sales and some generous donations.

Best of all, the Scouts really pitched in and helped make and deliver the delicious treats.

Venturers

finally hit the

slopes

After missing out on their annual ski trip last year due to COVID, the Venturers of Macedon-Woodend Scout Group were super excited to carve up the powder at Falls Creek during the first week of the September school holidays.

Being the first ones on the slopes each day and skiing full days, we made the most of ideal conditions. There was plenty of fresh snow and some great spills as some Venturers hit the snow for the first time. With Melbourne still in lockdown we virtually had the mountain to ourselves.

Macedon-Woodend Venturers are very active and we are looking forward to our planned hikes in the next holidays, the Wilderness

If you are missing our jams and cordial, you can find them at The Computer Company store on Aitken Street. Our Annual Tomato Sale will be on October 30 and 31. We have some vacancies in our Joey Mob. Joeys is all about building confidence and practical life skills with the support of caring leaders. Always fun! We meet on Wednesdays, 6:30 to 7:30pm. If you have a 5-7-year-old looking to try something new, contact Group Leader “Skipper” (0450 922 787 or johnfrearson@mac.com) to learn more about the fun and challenges ahead. John Frearson

Coast Walk at Mallacoota in December and the Overland Track in Tasmania in January.

The Macedon-Woodend Scout Group is based at the Macedon Scout Hall and has Cubs and

Scouts on Mondays, Scouts on Tuesdays and Venturers on Thursdays. Visit macedonwoodendscouts. com for more information.

Dale Sutton, Venturer Leader

Proudly sponsored by Bruce Ellis, Chiropractor

Cub Scouts Emma, Taliya and Jack display their special COVID Caring awards at an outdoor Cub gathering at Aitken Reserve, Gisborne, on September 15.

Lachlan James (left), Noah Camilleri-Seeber, Lachlan Sutton, Bailey Thorne, William Shaddock, Edward Pearce, Reece Bateman after a great day skiing at Falls Creek.

Outdoor meetings? Not a problem for bushwalkers

As bushwalkers we feel very much ‘at home’, on our feet, out in the open air. So it was an easy decision for the Gisborne Bushwalkers Club to hold our pre-AGM meeting in one of Gisborne’s many lovely parks in early spring...suitably masked, socially-distanced, and well rugged up against the morning chill.

Our AGM is planned for early October. If by then we still cannot meet for a business/social occasion as we used to enjoy in pre-restriction days, we will have to go to plan B, and vote in new office-bearers with an

online proxy-voting process later in the month.

We look forward to the days of getting together, enjoying working through our backlog of planned walks, and providing the Gazette with ‘happy snaps’ from our adventures in the beautiful bushlands and countryside around here that we love.

Watch this space!

For more info: Call Pierre on 0417 515 468, Janeen on 0416 052 366, Nigel on 0437 715 972, or Ashley on 0490 133 656. Or check out our website: www.gisbornebwc.org.au.

Margaret Muehlheim

Riders celebrate 22 years as 'Ulyssians'

Like the rest of Victoria, our members and their communities face travel and assembly challenges during COVID lockdowns.

In the midst of this, our Macedon Ranges Ulysses Branch has paused to reflect on 22 years as a Ulysses organisation.

Pre-COVID, our branch was a bustling and active community of motorcyclists and friends who came together regularly to enjoy good company, great riding and regional travel.

One of the ways we enjoyed our camaraderie was through attendance at multi-branch events such as the annual national AGM set in different “exotic” interstate places each year; co-ordinated “meet 'n' greet” events at Mt Franklin and Vaughan Springs; the monthly Victorian Breakfast Club ride set in various towns around Victoria (most recently Gisborne); and of course, our annual memorial ride and service with multiple branches at the Mt Macedon Memorial Cross, remembering those members who have “ridden on” in the past year.

The accompanying photos reflect just a small selection of many such memorable events, as we hope for more in the not-too-distant future.

Even with reduced numbers through lockdown, some of us still catch up in Gisborne at Saturday morning’s tyre-kick; if permitted, we would love to see you there.

Check us out at www.mrub.org.au or join us on Facebook for the latest news.

Cherry Cole

We salute you

I have been reflecting on the recent season and the theme that comes to mind is “we salute you”.

While my reflection is towards the Macedon Football and Netball Club, it also covers those from all clubs in the RDFNL and beyond.

Firstly, to the players and coaches. What an effort you have put into the past two years. Two preseasons carried out. Our senior coaches, Al Meldrum and Ciara Stewart, and their assistants at all levels have prepared, planned and maintained motivation for two full seasons of play. They and their teams have done an outstanding job.

The players have done likewise often in very unsettling circumstances – many teams split by their residential location; in the relative freedom of regional Victoria versus lockdown in greater Melbourne.

When it came to playing, our players gave everything – were skilled, professional, put in some huge performances at all levels. Some teams did better than others but in overall terms the performance of all teams was on a rising plane…. Not forgetting our opposition, who all did exactly the same.

I then salute the volunteer supporters – canteen, organisers, committees, providing medical support, fulfilling game and non-game day duties. Thankyou for supporting our club in delivering a season of many highlights – night-time sport (a huge success), some great social gatherings and a memorable Anzac Day, to name but a few.

All this underpinned by three key stakeholders: our newly structured RDFNL league entity, ably led by Jordan Doyle and a highly supportive team, our club sponsors and members who delivered fantastic support, including our first ever and hugely successful car raffle, and the local Macedon Ranges Council.

I salute every one one of those mentioned; a mammoth achievement by all to provide a great environment for young people to thrive, remain physically and mentally healthy through the past two years.

Some of the bushwalkers who met in Aitken Reserve.

Two memorable events during the past 22 years: Canberra 2005 AGM Parade. Pictures: Dawn Garner.

Mildura 2012 AGM – Macedon Ranges Ulysses Branch “Ladies”.

Andrew Dick, Macedon FNC

Andrew Dick Macedon Football Netball Club

Coffs Harbour 2007 AGM.

SPORT IN PICTURES

Pictures by Chris Fleming

Mark Testro swings at Gisborne Golf Club – September 17

Gisborne cricket players Lucy Duoba, Jess Sankey and Zoe Kays work some muscles on the exercise track along Jacksons Creek – September 12.

Emily McDonald and Ellie Kays get their heart rates up on the exercise track along Jacksons Creek – September 12.

Greg Kennedy at Macedon Bowling Club – September 11.

Gary Dickerson at Macedon Bowling Club – September 11.

Football: Gisborne Rookies U11C end of season presentation – September 19

Football: Gisborne Rookies U13A end of season presentation – September 19

Emily Duoba and Jess Sankey –September 12.

Hannah Weier – September 12

Emily McDonald, Lucy Duoba and Zoe Kays –September 12. Georgia Weier trains in the nets at Gardiner Reserve – September 12.

Junior girls – September 12.

Henry Hollins and Will Saultry take off at Gisborne Skate Park on September 19

Banjo Hoe gathers speed at Gisborne Skate Park on September 19

Men’s batting practice – September 19.

Steve Docherty

AROUND THE GROUNDS

New look for South Gisborne

The South Gisborne Tennis Club has been busy despite restrictions shutting down a lot of our programs and competitions.

We elected a new president, Tim Butcher, and welcomed some new faces onto the committee. Check out our new and interactive website, www. sgtennis.com.au.

Padrick heads up Element 13 and has brought us into the 21st century with nearly all things SGTC being made accessible through the site.

Tim and Brendan are to be congratulated on get-

ting the club uniform off the design table, sponsored up and worn by so many of our members.

With competition not looking to get underway any time soon, don’t forget Monday and Tuesday night social tennis up at the club. Non-members made welcome!

The Spark coaching team is up and about and has added another cardio session to the already busy schedule. Maybe your team, family or friends can be part of your own cardio session?

Mario can be contacted at info@sparktennis.com. au. Any time is a good time to play tennis!

Gail Scott

Cricket in Gisborne ready to go

Everything is in place for cricket to kick off as soon as we are allowed to play.

Gisborne will be looking for another great season, with participation for all in our Dragons senior teams, junior boys and girls, Blasters program for under 10-year-olds and also our fantastic Modified for Inclusion cricket for people with a disability.

Registration is now open and we welcome you to get involved and have fun. Details are on our website at gisbornecc.vic.cricket.com.au

The club is going from strength to strength (even during COVID times) and this year we are looking to give something back to the community by contributing to the fight against mental health issues.

Andrew Headberry

The club is hosting a Supersmash tournament in December in addition to a number of other events and initiatives. For more information contact Andrew Headberry at president@gisbornecc. com or on 0425 763 999.

We’re back on the track at Mt Macedon

A massive sigh of relief and collective hurrah could be heard across the Macedon Ranges on the announcement that the regions were headed out of lockdown.

Immediately there was a torrent of emails flying with requests for tee times. No great scores were recorded, but just to be out on the fairways again was enough to celebrate. Judging by the state of the hairstyles hidden beneath caps, the local barbers should be seeing brisk business in the coming weeks.

Congratulations to Bruce Fraser for his nomination for Golf Australia’s Visionary of the Year award, a testament to the instrumental role Bruce is playing in bringing women into golf and the game’s leadership. This award celebrates and rewards the terrific work being delivered across Australia to promote gender equality in golf, and “Ladies Get Into Golf at MMGC” was recognised for the creative efforts to engage more women in golf.

The Annual General Meeting was a celebration of the club’s fortunes despite the constraints of the past 18 months. Office bearers Matt Willis, Brian Collins and Marcus Ward were returned to their respective positions of president, hon treasurer and hon secretary. We welcomed Michael ‘Mick’ Doyle to the club’s captaincy role.

A further new appointment was Peter Palmer who joins the management committee along with Tony Littman, Gary Liddy, Peter Semmens, Nathan Fairley and Dave ‘Rock’ Hudson.

Congratulations to Simon Keating who was the Jumbuck Sheepskin and Leather Monthly Medallist for July.

Our new membership year has begun. All membership categories are adjusted pro rata. See our website for details, www.mtmacedongolfclub. com.au.

Walrus

Tennis club juniors looking smart in the new uniform: Sam P, Sam W, Kristiaan and Holly.

Andrew Headberry

Simon Keating, monthly medallist for July.

Mt Macedon Petanque Club regional members were relieved to come out of lockdown in September – one reason being that they could return to the practice piste.

While metropolitan Melbourne is still in lockdown, club competitions are not permitted, however practice is allowed in the regions up to a current maximum of 20 players with no spectators.

The club has recently introduced an extra fortnightly skills session. Lindsay Kinghorn runs the sessions where skills, tactics, rules and game etiquette are taught and practised.

The inaugural practice day was held on Wednesday September 15 and members found the session very informative. Plenty of opportunity was given to

Petanque players relieved to at least be able to practise Croquet club opens new season

question time and discussion of different scenarios that happen during games. The session ended with take-away lunch at the grounds before the usual afternoon play day.

The club is supposed to be running its annual triples competition in October but with current restrictions and COVID numbers, this competition may not run. Players are ever hopeful of being able to once again play in competitions against other clubs, but in the meantime are thankful that their regional members can at least practise.

Regional members do feel for their metropolitan counterparts who are patiently awaiting freedom from lockdowns once vaccination targets are reached. Alison Kinghorn

On Wednesday September 15, one week later than planned, our president, Noeline, officially declared open our 2021-22 season. Ken Anders raised the flag as we sang the national anthem. Then our current club champion, Helen Shirley, ran the first hoop.

Unfortunately, due to heavy rains, the greens were too wet to allow the permitted numbers of players to enjoy a game that morning.

Hopefully, with some dry, warmer weather,

we will be able to begin play soon.

We regret our Sunbury, Melton and Bacchus Marsh members are unable to have a game until the 10km rule is lifted. We look forward to that happening soon.

Our clubhouse is looking fresh and bright since it has been painted and new blinds installed.

We are looking forward to a year of fun and friendship back playing croquet.

Faye Armstrong

Mt Macedon players (from left): Rod Gell, Paul Fox and Caroliza Job practise accurate pointing.

From left: Noeline Richardson (president), Lyn Robinson, Christabel Douglas, Elizabeth Payne, Helen Shirley (club champion), Margaret Closter, Ken Anders, Faye Armstrong and Ros Anders.

FOR THE GREEN THUMBS

Daly Nature Reserve news update

The photograph this month was taken by one of our members in Daly Nature Reserve in August. The appropriately named ‘early Nancy’, Wurmbea dioica, is a sure sign of early spring. The tiny white flowers appear on 5-15cm stems and are distinguished by their purple central circles, linking each of six petals.

We always look forward to this season as the reserve blooms with native flowers, many of which are small and hidden in surrounding grasses and twigs. It is best to take a leisurely walk along the tracks to observe them all.

After good rainfall the reserve is looking very green and healthy. Currawongs were singing in the trees as our recent working bee teams kept occupied weeding out capeweed, paspalum and ivy.

During spring we hold two working bees per month because, just as in our home gardens, weeds are prolific.

Dates in October will be Tuesdays 12 and 26, starting at 9.30am. Tool kits including gloves are supplied.

During COVID restrictions, we work in small groups, wear masks and provide hand sanitiser. By 11’ish it’s time to pack up and enjoy a chat over a cuppa. Newcomers are always welcome.

Enquiries: dalynaturereserve@gmail.com

Irene Perkin

Tiny ‘early Nancy’ flowers push through undergrowth.

Planting trees this spring? Remember to plan before you plant

Greater Western Water is reminding the Gisborne community to be careful where they plant trees this spring.

While trees provide welcome shade and habitat for wildlife, underground can be a different story, with tree roots causing a lot of damage to pipes.

Thirsty tree roots seeking moisture tend to gravitate towards underground pipes and can eventually penetrate them, causing blockages and even spills.

In fact, tree roots are a leading cause of sewer blockages across the region.

The best way to prevent issues from tree roots is to choose trees with non-invasive root systems and to plant away from the underground infrastructure. Using root barriers can also help minimise damage.

A good rule of thumb is that tree roots extend about 1.5 times the distance of its branches.

Customers can contact Greater Western Water or go online to Dial Before You Dig to find out where pipes are located on their property.

So if planting trees this spring, a little planning first can help prevent costly issues down the track.

Free council mulch on offer for rest of year

Council is pleased to offer residents free mulch at all Council transfer stations until December 31.

Residents are encouraged to head to their local tip and claim up to one cubic metre of free self-loaded mulch. The mulch is produced from garden organics dropped off at the transfer stations and is available to shire residents. Residents will need to provide proof that they live in the shire, such as a driver’s license or rates notice.

This is a first-come, self-load offer. Residents should bring their own shovel, containers or trailer, and protective clothing.

There are many benefits to mulching gardens, including water conservation. Mulch stops the top of the soil drying out, keeps the soil moist, and can reduce watering by about 60 per cent.

Mulching also prevents weeds and weed seed germination, keeps the soil temperature constant

and improves soil conditions for the root zone of all plants. Using an organic mulch means you are also adding extra organic matter to the soil.

The amount of mulch available at transfer stations varies and is available while stocks last. The closest transfer station is Woodend, whose hours are Monday 10am–4pm, Tuesday closed, Wednesday to Sunday 10am–4pm. For Romsey or Kyneton opening hours, visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/transfer-stations

For more information, contact the council on 5422 0333.

Be that somebody who does something... and help Gisborne’s creek

David Tunbridge of Friends of Jacksons Creek sent this parable to the Gazette, saying it would be as relevant to his community group as any other…

“Whose job is it, anyway?

This is the story of four people named Everybody, Somebody, Anybody and Nobody.

There was a job to be done and Everybody was sure that Somebody would do it.

Anybody could have done it, but Nobody did it. Somebody got angry about that, because it was Everybody’s job. Everybody thought Anybody could do it, but Nobody realised that Everybody wouldn’t do it.

It ended up that Everybody blamed Somebody when Nobody did what Anybody could have.”

The story may be confusing but the message is clear: no one took responsibility so nothing got accomplished. Be a Somebody who does something.”

If you want to be Somebody, Friends of Jacksons Creek working bees are held on the third Sunday of the month; ring 0415 534 477 to register.

Thanks and keep up the great work.

Regards from Everybody

Picturesque scene on Jacksons Creek.

A tribute to Frontier Services from Mount Macedon Uniting Church

A service celebrating the work of Frontier Services, the Uniting Church agency supporting remote and inland people, was held at Mount Macedon Uniting Church on September 19.

Frontier Services is the successor agency to the Australian Inland Mission founded in 1912 by Presbyterian minister Rev John Flynn.

He was an extraordinarily selfless person. He loved people, loved the bush, had a deep faith in God and was driven by that sense of God’s calling to improve the lives of people of the inland. His achievements were many and included the Bushman’s Companion, a little booklet of hints and first aid tips.

After several years travelling the outback as a Bush Chaplain, he recognised the value of the new radio technology to bring isolated people together, leading to the invention of the pedal wireless.

Limited medical services, with just a few AIM nursing homes in the inland, led to the establishment of the Aerial Medical Services which became the Royal Flying Doctor Service in 1939.

Other initiatives were the Old Timers’ nursing home and the School of the Air in Alice Springs.

Since John Flynn died in 1951, his legacy has continued, with the AIM becoming the Frontier Services in 1977 with church union still serving the re-

REMEMBERING HISTORY

mote inland but also far eastern Victoria and central Tasmania.

John Flynn was recognised on the $20 note in 1994 and also features on the new $20 issued in 2019. Funds collected at our service have been donated to Frontier Services to help continue this important work.

Neil Tweddle, 5426 2045

Presbyterian Church looks forward to lunch

It has been a long time since we hosted a luncheon, and we are looking forward to our Newcomer’s Luncheon planned for October 3 (pending any restrictions of course). We are hosting this COVID-safe event to help members who joined within the past two years to reconnect.

If you would like to know more about what we as a church believe, we are hosting “Understanding the Presbyterian Church” classes soon. Please contact our minister, Wayne McArdle, on 0437 133 800 for more information.

With congregation numbers currently limited to just 20 participants, we continue to live stream to ensure those who want to, or have to, stay home are still able to connect and take part in our weekly service on Sundays at 10am.

To participate in our weekly live stream, go to www.gisbornepresbyterian.com.au/live-stream/ Alternatively, scan our QR code

Lizzie Mills

19th century Gisborne churches unite

“The annual meeting of the Gisborne United Christian Association was held in the Mechanics’ Hall on the evening of the 24th February [1888], and was well attended.

G.L. Woodworth Esq. JP, presided in his usual pleasant and effective manner.

The proceedings were opened by singing and praying and excellent addresses were delivered by Mr. John Flynn [later pioneer of the Flying Doctor service] and Rev. John Meek.

direction in Gisborne district by the association.

A vote of thanks to the choir and one to the chairman were proposed by Mr. Frank Crow and William M’Nicol.”

Anglican Parish of Gisborne

In a recent conversation about all things ‘online’, etiquette was raised as an issue. More than ever during the pandemic lockdowns, electronic communication has become more and more critical.

Many people would have never expected to use computers, smartphones, or even tablets for communication.

In addition to essential and personal communication, there are many ways of informing and entertaining ourselves.

Some humorous moments are shared with many people. I often receive beautiful photos, words of encouragement and other things of interest.

Rev John Meek

The former gentleman spoke most impressively on the benefits of united action on the part of various denominations in advancing the cause of common christianity and eulogised the work being done in that

– from the Bacchus Marsh Express, 10 March 1888

 The year 1887 was the 13th year of the association. Money was raised during the year to pay expenses – such as books and rent of hall – of running the Gisborne Union Sunday School, under the supervision of Edward Cherry and a staff of teachers selected from the various congregations.

Of course, there is also SPAM (unsolicited mail) advertising bizarre things. The senders are becoming crafty and often address you by name and location with uncanny accuracy.

Of course, it goes without saying: do not click links that are allegedly from your bank, post office, carrier firms or charities. They look authentic but seldom are.

The other thing that is important to keep under control is social media. What is frustrating is the online abuse if you dare to share an opinion. Are such ‘keyboard warriors’ as rude in real life?

The letter of James (chapter 3) reminds us of the danger of unbridled tongues and gossip.

Maybe the same principle should be applied to people’s fingers!

Dennis Webster

Rev John Flynn (on fence) and inset.

George Woodworth

The geography of prayer

UNITING CHURCH

In times of national disaster – wars, economic depression, floods and fires – congregations and their churches have known what their role should be. They must open their doors, provide a safe place, warmth, food and reassuring support. This time it has been different.

The necessary restrictions on how we meet at this time of virulent infection have been challenging. No place for a warm hug, a strong hand clasp or shared tea and scones.

One resource which is free of restriction is that of prayer The World Council of Churches is an international partnership of 73 denominations. It grew out of the unimaginable distress of war and depression, which so scarred the first half of the 20th century Along with work for international peace and justice is its call for common prayer for the common good. Every week we are alerted to extend our prayerful concerns to those in particular countries, expanding across this great globe.

Over the years we have learned much geography While prayers are offered for prominent nations, the United States, Germany, China, we also learn of the needs of smaller ones such as Burkina Faso, Leso-

CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1. Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is located in this American city

4. A form of alternative medicine in which thin needles are inserted into the body

5. Baku is the capital city of this country

6. A street in Gisborne named after one of the earliest European settlers

7. This mountain range runs along South America’s western side

11. Inflammation of one or more joints, causing pain and stiffness that can worsen with age

13. The Titanic hit an iceberg in this ocean

14. The winner of the first Melbourne Cup in 1861

15. City located on the river Torrens, founded in 1836

16. The coldest continent on earth

tho and Cape Verde. Why does this matter? Prayer is crucially important to Christians. It is both a personal and communal conversation with God. It is also a way in which we fulfil an obligation and desire to know more about others, to listen to them and to be partners with even those we’ll never meet.

Gisborne Uniting Church has a group of its people who meet each Friday morning from 10-11am to offer prayers for and on behalf of ourselves and others. Phone 5428 8525 or 5428 6700 for any prayer request.

Janet Wood

BRAINBUSTERS

1. Which letter in the English alphabet is the most commonly used?

2. Which famous pass links Afghanistan to Pakistan?

3. Who was the oldest member of the Beatles?

4. What is the chemical symbol for zinc?

5. Where in the human body is the jugular vein?

6. What is the national flower of South Africa?

7. What is the collective noun for a group of kangaroos?

8. The dodo, the now extinct flightless bird, once lived on which Indian Ocean island?

9. By what name is Thomas Edward Lawrence more commonly known?

10. Who is the current Lord Mayor of Melbourne?

Answers page 39

Trivia – starting with the letter ‘A’ Compiled by Graeme Millar DOWN

2. The second man to walk on the moon

3. Song from the movie Evita: ‘Don’t cry for me .........’

5. The high-speed motorway system in Germany

6. Kabul is the capital city of this country

7. A COVID-19 vaccine

8. Across the river from Wodonga

9. Father and son, both named Gary, played for Geelong in the AFL

10. African mammal that eats ants and termites

12. Stone fruit with soft green flesh under tough blackish skin

14. Swedish pop group formed in 1972

ACROSS DOWN Answers

GISBORNE

100 YEARS AGO

From the pages of the old

OCTOBER 1921

*As copies of the Gisborne Gazette of 1921 are not available, these local items are drawn from other publications of the time.

Notes from Legislative Assembly. The business of the country was held up for 20 minutes while a private bill, to revive the license of the Victorian Hotel at Gisborne, was taken under the wing of the Ministry and put forward on the score of urgency. The license had lapsed because of the failure of the licensee to pay the fees for 1921 – an excusable error, according to the Chief Secretary. Mr. Robertson [Bulla] was the original sponsor for the bill and one or two Labour members asked with admiring envy whether opposition supporters would be treated with equal kindness by the Ministry if the occasion arose.

Social Events To add to the many attractions of the Golf House, New Gisborne, which, under Mrs. Austin’s management, is such a restful and delightful place to stay, is a new gravel tennis court in fine playing condition. The country all around is looking beautiful just now in its spring greenness, with spring flowers just appearing, and the Golf House, bordered by the lovely blue of masses of forget-me-nots, wears a most inviting appearance.

Bendigo Express Stoppages In a letter to the Editor of the Argus a “Kynetonian” writes that the ways of the Railways Commissioners are peculiar. The Bendigo express, 4.50 p.m. from Spencer St., is allowed to take passengers for Macedon, Harcourt and Bendigo only. Woodend, Kyneton and Castlemaine passengers are not allowed to travel by this train, and I am told are liable to a fine of £2 if caught disobeying this injunction. The other night I was at Macedon. It was raining hard, and I wanted to catch the express which stops there and travel on to Kyneton, thus expecting to save a cold wait of half an hour. I was told no tickets would be issued until after the express had gone and would have to content myself with boarding the next train. There are always numbers of people getting off here and yet the authorities will not allow anyone to get on and occupy the vacant places.

Lieut. Parer’s Flight. Ill luck appears to dog Lieut. R.J. Parer ... in his endeavours to fly around Australia. His first attempt several weeks ago ended disastrously at Gisborne, and on Saturday afternoon, when he set out for the second time, the “knocking” of his engine forced him to return while he was still in sight of his starting point, the Port Melbourne aerodrome. Repairs were at once taken in hand, but the necessary taking apart and reassembling of the engine will probably take some days.

WHAT'S ON

REGULAR MEETINGS

New members always welcome

*** NB: Check with organisations re COVID restrictions ***

ADULT RIDING CLUB (Gis) 2nd Saturday I R Robertson Res

ADULT RIDING CLUB (Bullengarook) 2nd Saturday Rec Reserve

ANGLING CLUB 2nd Wed 8pm Railway Hotel Macedon

BOTANIC GARDENS working bee every Thurs 9.30am-10.30am

BRIDGE CLUB Mon 12.30, Tues 7.15, Thurs 12.30 St Mary’s Church Hall, Woodend 5420 7595

BUSHWALKING CLUB Various locations Tel 5428 3490 or 5427 0888

CANASTA CLUB 1.30pm every Mon except first Mon of month Parish centre (behind St Pauls Church, Gisborne)

CANCER SUPPORT GROUP last Wed of month MRH

CAR CLUB 1st Wednesday 8pm Steam Park, New Gisb

CARERS GROUP (Mac Ranges) 2nd & 4th Thurs, 1pm Woodend RSL 5420 7132 (Note: 4th Thurs carers only)

COMMUNITY GARDEN Wed 9am Church of Christ

CROQUET CLUB Wed & Sat 10am Dixon Field

CWA GISBORNE 2nd Monday 10am Gis Secondary College

CWA MACEDON 3rd Tues 1pm & 7pm 662 Mt Macedon Rd

DALY RESERVE WORKING BEE 2nd Tues 9.30am Scout Hall, Daly Res

FILM SOCIETY 2nd Wed Woodend Neigh’hood House 5427 2323

FLY FISHING CLUB 4th Wed 7.30pm MRFEC Gisborne

FOCUS CLUB 2nd Fri 12 noon Gisborne Golf Club FRIENDS of JACKSONS CREEK Working bees 3rd Sun 10-noon David Tunbridge 0415 534 477

GARDEN CLUB 2nd Wed various venues 0424 038 474

GENEALOGY GROUP 4th Thurs 7.30 Family Hist Rm, Library

GIRL GUIDES Thursdays 5pm Gis Scout Hall

GISBORNE SINGERS Wed 7.30pm Gisborne Uniting Church

HISTORICAL SOCIETY open Wed 10am-4pm Court House

LIBRARY: TODDLERS’ STORY TIME Mon 10.30am, Wed 10.30am

LIONS CLUB (Gisborne) First Thurs of month, 7.30pm 247 Station Rd

MARTIAL ARTS Thurs from 5.15pm St Brigid’s Hall

MASONIC LODGE 2nd Thurs 7pm Masonic Hall Aitken St

MASTERS AFL Wed 6.30pm Sankey Reserve

MT MAC & DIST HORT SOC 1st Tues 8pm Hor ticultural Hall

MUFFINS ’N’ MORE 2nd Tues 10am-noon Uniting Church

MUMS’ GROUP 2nd Mon 9.30-11.30am 49 Fisher St

OBEDIENCE DOG CLUB Sun 9am Riddells Rec Res

PETANQUE 2nd & 4th Sat 10am behind Caltex service station, Station Rd, Gisborne 0439 887 178

PHOENIX ART & CRAFTS 1st Thursday phoenixmrac.com

PHOTOGRAPHIC SOC 1st Tues & 2nd Mon 7pm Riddell’s Creek Neighbourhood House

PONY CLUB Bullengarook 1st Sunday Rec Reserve

PONY CLUB Gisborne 1st Sunday Robertson Reserve

PROBUS 1st Thurs 10am Mechanics Inst.

QUILTERS (Gisb) Wed 7pm Room attached to Gisb Library

RAMBLERS Fridays 9.15am Tennis Club Dixon Field

ROTARY (Gisborne) First & third Tues evening, call Sec on 0426 500 616 for confirmation of venue

ROTARY (Macedon Ranges) 1st & 3rd Monday Baringo Food & Wine

RUNNING GROUP Tues & Thurs 6pm, Sun 8am Gis Aquatic Centre

RSL 1st Mon 2pm Gis Golf Club 5428 2233

SENIOR CITS (Macedon) Tues 11am Tony Clarke Res

SPINNERS & FIBRE GROUP Wed 12 noon Rec Reserve Bullengarook

TABLE TENNIS Wed 7.30pm Tony Clarke Res, Macedon

THUNDER SWIMMING CLUB 2nd Sat 5pm Gisborne Aquatic Centre

TOY LIBRARY Every Sat 10-11am; first & third Wed, 8.45-9.30am, second & fourth Fri 9-10am 71 Robertson St

ULYSSES GROUP 3rd Tues 6pm Sunbur y FC

VINTAGE MACHINERY Working bees 1st Sun of month, 8.30am at Steam Park; meetings last Friday of month, 7pm at Steam Park

WRITERS GROUP Last Sat of month 2-5pm Woodend N’hood House

WRITERS (Scribes & Scribblers) 2nd Tues 10am-12 Riddell N’hood House

YOUNG VOICES Thursdays 4.15-5.45pm Norma Richardson Hall, Buckland St, Woodend, 5426 4801 or sdggome@patash.com.au

Record vote in council elections despite pandemic

Voter turnout hit record highs in the 2020 local council elections, a report tabled in the Victorian Parliament shows.

The Victorian Electoral Commission’s ‘scorecard’ on its performance and services during the election showed that voter turnout jumped from a statewide average of 72.15% in 2016 to 81.47% in 2020. Informal voting – that is, ballot papers not completed according to the instructions – also fell from 6.29% in 2016 to 4.76% in 2020.

The report recommended that the Government note the increasing role of political parties in local government elections, and the community’s desire for transparency regarding candidate-party affiliations.

Another recommendation was a sombre sign of the times – it recommended that the Government add homelessness to the list of allowable excuses for failing to vote in local government elections.

The full report – The 2020 Local Government Elections Report – is available at vec.vic.gov.au.

Unfurling spring leaves

Gisborne Gazette*

The growth of new leaves is a sign of hope and can be seen as a metaphor for the opening up of our lives again after the restrictions and travails of the COVID pandemic over the past two years – fingers crossed!