Gisborne Gazette August 2023

Gisborne Gazette

serving the southern macedon ranges

AUGUST 2023

Playing for Pride

Gisborne Football Netball Club’s Hannah McCormack, Stephanie Brancatisano and Briannah Woodburn sport their new Pride Round jumpers. 22 July as part of the club’s second annual Pride Round.

Gisborne Football Netball Club’s senior women’s football team hit the ground in new, specially designed Pride Round jumpers on

Other club teams showed their support for the round by wearing

pride socks. Player Hannah McCormack said sporting clubs held a unique position of leadership in local communities and running a

Pride Round was about more than rainbow flags and a single date in the season fixture.

Continued page 5

Picture: Chris Fleming

HOME PAGE

It’s great to see our local football and netball clubs using their prominent role in the community to model and encourage good citizenship. As you will have seen in this month’s bright cover photo, Gisborne Football Netball Club held its second annual Pride Round in July, adding socks and a specially designed jumper to their show of support for the LGBTIQA+ community this year. Gisborne Giants Football Netball Club in turn put much effort into supporting the TAC Road Safety Campaign. See their report on page 5.

Two Gisborne Primary students who helped lay out this edition proudly told me that their club, the Gisborne Rookies, was also participating in the Pride Round and provided the report on page 35.

Mental health continues to be an issue in the community, and I was impressed and moved by the Gisborne Secondary College art show on the topic on 22 July, which was instigated by the students themselves. We share some of the artworks on page 23. It is heartening to see the Community Bank award its largest ever grant for the development of a new youth mental wellbeing support service.

An upside to our growing community is the increasing number of services you can find locally. The scanning equipment at the new Matrix Medical Imaging in Goode Street will likely save many people time, stress and money.

Lastly, I thank Katrina Buttigieg for being on the Gazette committee for the last three and a half years and contributing to the Gazette in many ways.

Katrina initially helped with the advertising side then moved to running our social media. She has written columns for the Gazette and will continue as a distribution volunteer, for which we are very grateful. Happy reading,

From the Editor's desk A

Corinne Shaddock

Gazette at Large

GREAT Gisborne Gazette 23 Hamilton Street, Gisborne PO Box 9, Gisborne 3437

Web www.gisbornegazette.org.au

The Gazette Team

Editor: Corinne Shaddock gisbornegazetteeditor@gmail.com

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Distributors: Proudly distributed to letterboxes in Gisborne, New Gisborne, Macedon, Mt Macedon, South Gisborne and Bullengarook by more than 100 volunteers.

Where you can find the Gazette

The views expressed in the Gazette are not necessarily those of the GREAT Association Inc (Gisborne Region Events Activities and Tourism) unless acknowledged as such. No endorsement of products or services is implied by the listing of advertisers or sponsors. While every effort is taken in printing contributions accurately, the Gisborne Gazette takes no responsibility for errors.

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Copies of the Gazette are posted to subscribers each month. For an annual subscription to cover postage, send your cheque for $29.70 to the Gisborne Gazette, PO Box 9, Gisborne 3437 or you can deposit online. Please contact Maxine on 0438 711 138 .

OBITUARIES

To submit an obituary for publication, please email bryanp2@bigpond.com. Please also provide a photograph for publication and restrict the article to about 250 words.

If you do not receive the Gazette in your letter box, you can collect a copy at:

Gisborne: Post Office, Village Shopping Centre, Priceline Chemist, Gisborne Medical Centre in Brantome Street, Coles and Foodworks supermarkets

Mt Macedon: The Trading Post

Macedon: Post Office and United Service Station on Black Forest Drive

New Gisborne: Baringo Food & Wine, Station Road; Cafe at 3 Ladd Road

Riddells Creek: Newsagency

Woodend: Coles supermarket

The Gisborne Gazette acknowledges the Wurundjeri people as the traditional custodians of the country on which we live and work. We recognise their continuing connection to land, water and community, and pay respect to elders past, present and emerging.

MINUTE  WITH  MAXINE

Susan and Douglas McDonald have been delivering the Gazette in Gisborne for five years. They have two daughters, Sharon and Kylie, and two sons, Jason and Dale, and 13 grandchildren. They were married in 1968 and lived in Warrnambool.

They later moved to Gisborne and Douglas, a building inspector, was needed especially after the Ash Wednesday fires. During that time, Susan volunteered by helping to give out supplies to families.

They owned a shoe shop in Gisborne, eventually then going on to own several sport shops in towns in the area.

Since they arrived in Gisborne, Susan and Doug have been involved with the local community and

members of various organisations. Susan has volunteered at the Op Shop on Hamilton Street for over 10 years and enjoys reading, gardening and shopping. Douglas is a cricket umpire for the juniors, females and seniors in Gisborne.

They both enjoy watching their grandchildren participate in the many sports they compete in.

The family has many memorable caravanning holidays, and one that makes Susan smile is their trip from Victoria to Rockhampton then on to Alice Springs and into Perth.

Susan is a Geelong Cats supporter and was delighted when they won the Grand Final last year.

Maxine Barker

Gisborne Olde Time Market JPs

Sunday 6 August 9am – 2pm

For more information call 0431 563 566 or go to www.gisborneoldetimemarket.org.au

Thursdays 12 noon to 2pm

Susan McDonald

James Taylor with his children Logan and Marnie on the shores of Daydream Island with North Molle Island behind.

ASH WEDNESDAY COMMEMORATIVE

Youth mental health service given $300,000 grant

A special youth-centred wellbeing support service is being developed by a partnership between Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health, Macedon Ranges Health and the Macedon Ranges Shire Council.

The service aims to reduce barriers and improve access for young people to services and activities that can help them to feel supported and connected to their peers and their community.

To enable the development of the project, it has been awarded a huge grant of close to $300,000 by Bendigo Bank’s Gisborne and District Community Bank.

The three-year project will address a significant gap in mental health support for youth in the Macedon Ranges and support an additional 180 young people over three years. Mental health is considered the most important issue for young people living in the Macedon Ranges with one in three students reporting feeling unhappy or depressed, according to council and other survey documents.

“Exactly how the model will look will be decided by local young people themselves,” the Community Mental Health manager at Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health, Adam Stefano, said.

“Over the next few months council will be coordinating

Post Office warns about payment scam

Gisborne Post Office is warning people about a delivery scam increasingly doing the rounds lately. Manager Joe Vella said that in recent weeks there had been a large increase in customers calling in to the Post Office making enquiries about parcels that required a payment for delivery.

“Please DO NOT under any circumstances click on any link or enter any form of payment into these emails,” he said.

“Australia Post will NEVER request a payment to deliver, redeliver or hold a parcel.

A word from the Reverend Dennis Webster

“As a fire is meant for burning with a bright and warming flame, so it can bring much discerning as we prepare once again. Not to preach our creeds or customs, but to build a bridge of care, we join hands across ancient lands, finding neighbours everywhere.”

Based on a hymn by Ruth C Duck

Multi-faith service and

This will be the largest community grant ever provided by Community Bank Gisborne and District. The board was impressed with the proposal’s aims, to not only provide the type of services that young people need and want, but to have them included in the design process.

A multi-denominational service and community gathering to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Ash Wednesday are planned for mid-February, a combined effort of local churches and fire brigades. The service will be held at the Church of the Resurrection, at the bottom of Honour Avenue, Macedon, on Sunday 12 February at 7.30pm.

Chair Dominic Andreacchio said, “We welcomed this opportunity to help close a gap in the very important area of mental health support for young people and are excited to enable health and youth workers at [the three organisations] to jointly develop and deliver a new, integrated service.

the events People drinks, etc. The Church 16 February reflection.

These fire brigade, groups the surrounding support

Happy

The 40th anniversary of the 1983 bushfires brings many memories of what could be considered the longest of all nights. As I move around the parish, I am touched, sometimes moved to tears, as the night events are recalled. Memory is one of the most potent teachers and modifiers of community. We must listen to the past for signs and find ideal responses.

On 12 February, the Anglican Church of the Resurrection, together with the Parishes of the Uniting Church and St Patrick’s Catholic Church, Macedon, in conjunction with the CFA, will host a prayer and reflection service, beginning at 7.30pm.

a consultation and design process in collaboration with young people and families, with the service to commence later this year.”

Beneath the memorial window designed and installed by the late Leonard French, an evening service will focus on the three main parts of the window: fire, silence, renewal.

The memorial window stands at the height of 10 metres and a width of three metres. It is a stunning work in the evening light – moving, engaging, and different every time you view it.

On the evening of 16 February, the CFA will host a barbecue in Centennial Park. The church will be open until darkness falls.

The Uniting Church on Mt Macedon will hold a prayer service at 7pm.

Joe Vella of Gisborne PO is not smiling about the latest scam.

Please do not be fooled by these scammers. If you’re in doubt, please call in to the PO and see if it is legitimate but please do not provide them with any bank account or credit card number.”

The hymn says, “we join hands across ancient lands, finding neighbours everywhere.” This is a time for all neighbours to reach out, share, remember and renew.

A community gathering organised by the CFA will be held at Centennial Park, on Mt Macedon Road, opposite the Church of the Resurrection, from 5.30pm on Thursday 16 February (the actual anniversary date). This will be an informal gathering for people to meet, talk, share and remember

“Involving youth in the design process should make the new service more impactful."

The team will include a mental health nurse, psychologist, youth counsellors, social workers, alcohol and drug counsellors and family violence support workers.

“We want to ensure that young people have wellbeing supports that meet their needs, are delivered close to where they live or go to school and at a time that suits them,” Adam Stefano said.

“This will be a service that is led by young people, for young people.”

Young water skier home after world championships

Corey Saddington, 20, is back home in South Gisborne and apart from nursing an injured foot is happy with his experience at the recent Under 21 Water Skiing World Championships held at Lake Chapala in Mexico.

Mt Macedon Uniting Church

A commemoration service will be held on Thursday evening, 16 February, at 7pm in the Mt Macedon Uniting Church on the 40th anniversary of the devastating bushfires that swept across much of Victoria and South Australia on 16 February 1983.

Corey was part of the eight person (four females, four males) Australian team which competed against 19 other nations. Australia finished third behind the United States and Chile, achieving its highest placement in the championship in 10 years.

The Reverend Dr D’Arcy Wood will lead the service, with the chair of the Presbytery of Port Phillip West preaching.

Corey just missed out on making the finals after the tow rope slipped out of his hand at the final buoy in the semi-final, finishing in equal 14th place.

He is now back at RMIT where he is into his third year of a construction management course. Corey will get back into training on the Loddon River later this year in preparation for Moomba where he hopes to do well.

The Uniting Church on Mt Macedon was one of the 400 buildings destroyed in Macedon and on Mt Macedon on that day. While seven people died in Macedon and on Mt Macedon, no-one from the congregation died. Only the stone walls of the church remained after the fire. Insurance was insufficient to rebuild.

With Graham Massive dividuals tralia and church Many of gregations. The congregation tle church ience and is extended and reflect, events on

to be helping. Bank representatives from left: Sarah Barton, Dominic Andreacchio and (far right) Erin McKinnon, with Adam Stefano from Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health at the grant presentation.

Corey Saddington in action at the World Championships in Mexico.

The beautiful memorial window by the late Leonard French. Picture: Dennis Webster.

Left: Mt Macedon fires, and above:

COUNCILLOR'S COLUMN

With Cr Rob Guthrie

One of the most challenging processes that councillors and staff face each year is determining the council budget. There are so many worthwhile projects competing for limited funds.

During September 2022 we requested that the community be provided with an opportunity to inform the development of budget priorities via Survey Monkey (online) and written submissions. Ninety responses were received.

In April this year the draft budget was released for consultation with 41 submissions received.

We are very pleased with the community involvement in the budget process which resulted in a number of new inclusions. As an example, the council was able to include $80,000 for the Macedon Tennis Club perimeter fence project, with another $20,000 provided by the club and $20,000 provided by the Gisborne Community Bank (Bendigo Bank) to complete the $120,000 project.

Cr Bonanno mentioned in last month’s Gazette some items that were being considered. There are many others including footpaths in Howey Street between Goode and Prince Street, and in Station Road, New Gisborne, extending to Ferrier Road and the primary school. Others include the rebuilding of 1.8km of Hamilton Road, New Gisborne, and undertaking detailed design/ planning for implementation of stage one of the Dixon Field master plan. If you require further information, the budget is available on our website at mrsc.vic.gov.au.

By the time you read this, the July council meeting will have considered five further items for consultation, two of which involve land in the South Ward and two which are shire-wide strategies. Again, we appreciate as much feedback as possible and I encourage you to be involved.

There are many community events planned, such as the Youth Awards presentation on 10 August; again full details are available on the website.

Please call me on 0419 309 953 or email rguthrie@mrsc.com.au if I can be of any assistance.

Calling for Local Hero nominations

The 2023 Local Hero Award will be awarded at Carols by Candlelight on 10 December.

Nominations of Local Heroes are now open, so if you know of someone who has dedicated much to the Gisborne community in a voluntary capacity and deserves recognition, please nominate them, and let us know their community contributions.

Last year's Local Hero was former Gazette editor Bryan Power. We look forward to celebrating another Local Hero at this year’s Carols, which will again be held at Dixon Field. Please send nominations to gisbornelocalhero@gmail.com by 10 November or contact Bronwyn Tacey on 0417 028 605 for further information.

Gisborne Community Carols Committee

SEEN AROUND TOWN

July was a big month for Gisborne on the medical scene

 Chiropractor David Tran stands in front of the Total Health Chiropractic which has opened in Hamilton Street. It is currently open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday (subject to change). The Gisborne office is the 11th in Victoria and 24th in Australia for Total Health Chiropractic.

 Aitken Street Medical Centre is opening its doors in August and will be a bulk billing clinic. The entry is in Gisborne Walk, the laneway between Aitken Street and Heritage Way next to next to 3 Little Pigs. The practice manager lives in Gisborne and said telehealth appointments are already possible.

 Matrix Medical Imaging Gisborne opened on 28 July at 17 Goode Street, in the Nexus Centre. A bulk-billing radiology clinic, it includes a CT scan among its services.

Things are moving at the sports precinct at New Gisborne. The pavilion is under construction beside the future ovals.

At the Matrix opening (from left): Phong Duong, Lauren Bauer, Clinton Athaide (general manager), Dr Mahesh Kulkarne (owner), Beldina Crocker (on bed), Mina Narouz, Jackie Byrne and Kevin Abon.

Codes care for community

Supporting diversity

Gisborne Football Netball Club dons special jumers to support Pride Round

 From page 1

“For our club it’s about stepping up to be the example of acceptance and inclusion for our community by not only celebrating our differences on July 22 but empowering our club members to call out and take a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination of any kind year-round,” player Hannah McCormack said

“The education, understanding and conversations that stem from running this round create a powerful ripple effect throughout the broader community that will help to carry Gisborne Football Netball Club’s proud and inclusive culture forward."

The inaugural Pride Round jumper features the progress flag across the shoulders and horizontally through the Bulldogs' stripes with pink and blue to represent the transgender community and brown/black to represent people of colour in the LGBTIQA+ community.

The jumpers were sponsored by Jets Gymnastics and the club invites the support of more local businesses so all teams can wear pride jumpers in future.

Gisborne Rookies Junior Football Netball Club also participated in the Bulldogs' Pride Round. See a report from junior players on page 35.

Giants focus on road safety

Gisborne Giants immersed themselves in the July Road Safety Campaign as part of the TAC Club Rewards program and community messaging.

Road trauma has affected club members and wider networks, so the Giants are working to help change the attitudes of new and experienced drivers.

Key messages have included driver distractions, speeding, drinking responsibly and car safety.

Transport Accident Commission (TAC) facts and statistics have been used to support the campaign, including that driver distraction is a major cause of crashes on Victorian roads and many people are seriously injured as a result. In addition, each year about one in four drivers and passengers killed are not wearing a seatbelt.

“We have taken it a step further and put our messages into practice,” said Giants president Brad Gauci.

The club is holding a Ladies Day early in August and has organised

transport during the event and afterwards to ensure attendees get home safely.

The upper age football players came together to hear local police officer Wade Andrews speak about road safety, and conversations about road experiences are being generated from the campaign.

Giants netballers and footballers are helping spread the message and the club is encouraging drivers to model respect on the roads. Non-drivers can also participate by considering who they get in a car with and ‘banter with the driver’ if they are not driving safely.

Gisborne Giants are proud to participate in the program and will continue the messaging, particularly with end of season celebrations in sight.

Submitted by Jess Bonanno

Gisborne Giants U17s and Seniors team members promote road safety messages to young and experienced drivers.

Gisborne Football Netball Club’s senior women’s team members wear their colours with pride.

BEHIND THE COUNTER

Opportunity came knocking

This month, in the Gazette's series on the people behind our small businesses, we meet Muoi Vo, who owns Infinity Beauty & Foot Spa (‘Infinity Beauty’) in Brantome Street, Gisborne

Muoi, known as ‘mum’ to her employees, bought her business, Infinity Beauty, in November 2019, fulfilling a life-long dream to own her own beauty salon.

Muoi was born in Ca Mau, a small town in the south of Vietnam. In 1989 an opportunity to migrate to Australia came to her town. Muoi’s brother convinced her to take this opportunity to move to Australia with him for a chance at a better life than a small village could offer them.

So, they joined a large group of the town’s people and as a community boarded a boat to Australia.

In Australia, Muoi lived in the west of Melbourne and, given her limited English language skills, mainly worked as a seamstress in a factory and then as a nail technician.

She later faced some hardship when she became a single parent of two and found herself taking refuge at a women’s shelter, but it was not long before Muoi got back on her feet.

With help from the community and friends, Muoi continued to work hard, saved her money and bought a house in Kings Park where she raised her two children. All the while she dreamed that one day she would own her own beauty salon.

In 2019, opportunity came knocking. A friend of Muoi’s owned several beauty salons which were getting too much for her to maintain and run herself, so she offered Muoi the opportunity to buy one of the stores.

Muoi always loved rural areas and wanted to work outside of the city in a beautiful community so she chose to buy her friend’s Gisborne store. She knew that all she would need to get the business running smoothly was some hard work and good customer service.

In Muoi’s opinion, Gisborne has a caring and friendly community and she says it means much to her to have

Talking about homelessness in the Macedon Ranges

Many people in Australia go unrecognised as homeless. The majority of them are women. Women over 50 are among the fastest-growing demographic of homeless in the developed world and are increasingly referred to as the hidden homeless. These women live in their cars, stay on a friend’s couch or live in short-term accommodation.

The Australian documentary Under Cover follows ten of these women from diverse walks of life in their different experiences. A panel discussion will be held following the screening of the documentary comprising seven experts from non-profit community, government and professional associations who will explore the extent and nature of homelessness in the Macedon Ranges. The goal of this free event is to raise community awareness on this issue and to advocate to government at all levels to address its causes.

The event is a partnership between Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group, Rotary, Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health and Macedon Ranges Shire Council.

Venue: Kyneton Town Hall

Date and Time: 8 August, 6.30 to 8.30pm.

Entry is free and a light supper will be provided. Register at www.mrsg.org.au/undercover

Tuesday

her own

in

Muoi Vo, who overcame hardship reach the happy position she is in today, in her Infinity Beauty store in Gisborne.

business

such a beautiful community that she loves to work in. When she has some spare time, you can catch her knitting away behind her desk, feeling at peace.

Ethalia Alekozoglou

VIEW FROM THE STALLS

Parachute Landing is a veteran-owned and operated Texas BBQ & Craft Beer business which works from ex-military vehicles. Parachute Landing is regularly at the monthly Gisborne Olde Time Market, sited at the Court House end.

grant will help Men's Shed community activities

win a Commonwealth organisations staff do annual Gisborne vote the

The business deploys an extremely rare Land Rover ex-military SRV-SF and a fully restored ex-military Land Rover 6x6 GMV workshop, with a customised military trailer containing two purpose-built American smokers from Kansas.

"We really appreciate this acknowledgement and support and thank the CBA branch staff and voting customers," a happy Men's Shed member said.

The funding will go towards the purchase of TIG welding equipment to expand their metal-working capabilities.

Give us a few weeks to get organised, the men say (because things rarely move quickly at the Shed), then drop in any Monday, Wednesday or Thursday morning to check out our new welding equipment.

All of the ingredients are purchased either from other veteran-owned businesses or through farms in the Macedon Ranges region. Meats are hickory and cherry wood smoked for up to 14 hours and prepared and served in a traditional East Texan way. All sides, salads and sauces are made from scratch with the only purchased ready item being brioche buns.

The kitchen and trailer are powered by deep cycle batteries that are emission-free and recharge throughout the day via solar means, to reduce food truck noise and fuel use. They have partnered with several Melbourne breweries to collaborate on a specific recipe to be served with their Texas BBQ that can only be bought takeaway from the vehicle when it is deployed.

People often ask how they came up with the name. Like the restored vehicles in the set-up, there is a story behind it. The owner was involved in a major parachuting accident in 2008 with Defence, which forced a career change and rethink on how to stay connected to military units and the wider veteran community. A story that is often not told is how soldiers can and do recover from major accidents, whether those occur in training or on operations overseas.

Owner Mark Nicholson, of Gisborne, said that over the years, seeing men and women of the Australian Defence Forces go through victories and absolute tragedies, the formula has been simple: nothing improves morale like a good parachute landing with a beer and barbecue.

Market stall: Parachute Landing

MACEDON MUSINGS

With Belinda Carlton-Doney

Well folks, we are deep in the heart of winter now.

Destructive winds have once again torn through the area. Although not as bad as in previous years, we have still seen trees and branches down. A big shout out to the SES and Vicpol for their many appearances along Black Forest and Mt Macedon Roads. They have been there often lately, clearing the road of obstacles and keeping us safe.

There goes the power out again. Smart residents purchased generators after the last black out...not me!

In the township, the electric vehicle charging station is up and running. Macedon joins other towns along the Calder to have such a station such as Woodend and Kyneton, and further afield at Wedderburn, Charlton and Wycheproof. Perfect for day trippers heading out this way. They can charge their car while enjoying a lunch at the pub. Aaargh, no they can’t! Still no pub for us…can you tell I’m a bit salty about that?

help recognise the amazing achievements of young people in the shire. The awards are open to young people between 12 and 25 who have made a significant

: young people who show real character and perseverance, especially in the face of adversity.

Good deeds: young people who give their time and energy to activities that support the wellbeing of another individual, group or community.

Pure imagination: young people pursuing their passion for creativity through the arts.

Nicely played: young people kicking recreational and physical activity goals.

Ash Wednesday book sells out

our going for June at College. cuppa.

All copies of the book Memories of Ash Wednesday by Bryan Power have been sold and the Gazette team wishes to thank the Gisborne News Agency, Macedon Post Office, the Trading Post and Gisborne and District Community Bank

for providing outlets for the sales. For anyone who missed out, copies can be seen at the Gisborne Library, the Gisborne Genealogical Group and the Gisborne and Mount Macedon Districts Historical Society.

Skilling it: young people excelling in a mentorship program, workplace or business.

Well aware: young people who shine a light on important issues/social causes, and raise awareness in the community.

Winners will be announced at an event at Kyneton Town Hall on 10 August. Nominations close on Friday 30 June. Visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/youth-awards.

Luckily, we are well taken care of in the cafe department. Lazy Baker is always busy, so too the ever-popular Mr Macedon. What would we do without them? And have you noticed the newly branded Forty Street? It’s one of the many changes at the former Macedon Lounge as new owner Ve continues with his vision.

Has anyone else noticed the number of kangaroos in the area? We know they are always around, but there seem to be increased numbers this year. Usually, they are just out of range of the car headlights early in the morning (until they’re not)! Currently these jumping ninjas are merrily grazing away along the roadsides en masse…not a care in the world and certainly not worried about cars.

So, take care and drive safely, everyone.

Pictured at High Tea are Edie Gundy, Osija Anolak, Maria Berens, Cheryl Liddy and Val Jarred.

Shedman Gunther and the Gisborne Commonwealth Bank team.

Karan, Gisborne Olde Time Market Committee

Owner Mark Nicholson was formerly a member of the defence forces.

One of the repurposed ex-military vehicles used in the business. Parachute Landing sources all its needs from other veterans' businesses or farms in the Macedon Ranges region.

What’s in a name?

Doug Walter Hattrick. If ever a name was meant to belong to a cricketer, it would be that one.

But Doug Walter Hattrick, a sportsloving mechanic living in Mount Macedon after WWI, did not go near a cricket bat he curled, and was also one of the top hammer throwers and shot putters in the country.

Hattrick honed his prowess in Scotland and Switzerland before emigrating as a young man to Australia. Beginning his working life in Melbourne as a chauffeur, in 1929 he married, became a mechanic and opened a garage at Mount Macedon next to the Waterfalls Hotel (the site now occupied by the Mount Macedon Hotel).

His old garage still sits in place surviving the natural deterioration of time and the fires of Ash Wednesday to quietly declare that the past does not have to be glamorous to be noteworthy.

Hattrick was tall and solidly built, perfect for the strength sports of hammer throw and shot put, and he competed in state and national championships. In 1914 he competed in the Australasian Track and Field Championship, scoring a win in the hammer throw and third place in shot put.

World War I interrupted everything, but afterwards he continued his pursuit of these most Scottish of sports, as well as joining the Australian Curling Club which was based at the Glaciarium in Melbourne. The Glaciarium was near the present-day Arts Centre in South Melbourne and was a full-blown rink capable of international standard skating and ice hockey. “The Glassy”, as it was known, was the first ice arena in Australia and the third-largest rink in the world.

Hattrick was known among Victorian

curlers for his “canny, soopin’ draw up the ice” surely a marvellous move, whatever it may be. In 1933, he made good use of the move in a curling ‘international’ that pitted Australia against Scotland, where both teams were made up of locals. Hattrick played for the Australian side.

Hattrick and his wife, Lilian, lived beside their garage in Mount Macedon. In 1931, disaster threatened when the Waterfalls Hotel next door burnt down, but newspapers reported that while the fire rapidly spread through the old wooden building, "the adjoining garage and residence of Mr. D.W. Hattrick was saved.”

Hattrick took a lively part in community affairs; he represented the Mount on the Gisborne Shire Council for several

Tamil dinner in New Gisborne

Chef Niro from Tuka Tuka Kothu Roti Ma is again cooking up some 'Tamil Temptations' for a second time after the very successful Tamil feast hosted by Macedon Ranges Rural Australians for Refugees in May.

On a cold Woodend night, 60 people enjoyed authentic Sri Lankan dishes on a relaxed and enjoyable evening. Not only were their tummies filled, but their minds also opened by Pauline Brown from the group who gave a short update about the issues facing refugees within our community.

years in the 1940s, was captain of the Mt Macedon Bush Fire Brigade and a member of Woodend Bowling Club.

Hattrick, born in 1887 in Scotland, remained in Mount Macedon with his wife until at least 1954. He died in 1961 in Windsor, NSW. Lillian died in 1981.

(For those of a younger vintage who may not get the name's full significance, Doug Walters was a famous Australian cricketer 1960s to 1980s, and hat trick –well, we all know that one.)

– Pip Butler

Niro, a Sri Lankan Tamil, who himself sought asylum in Australia to escape violence and persecution in his home country, now runs a successful catering business and is very happy to help Macedon Ranges Rural Australians for Refugees host another meal of delicious Tamil food to raise money for refugees and people seeking asylum in Australia. The evening will be at the Church of Christ in New Gisborne on Saturday 19 August. Doors open at 5.30pm, with the meal served at 6pm. BYO alcohol (and an empty stomach). Tickets are $35 per adult, $15 per primary school child and $90 for a family of four.

Bookings open on 4 August at www.trybooking.com/CJZDH.

The last event sold out in a week, so be quick.

Above: Hattrick's old garage; Right: Hattrick in 1944 when a Gisborne councillor; and far right, giving a curling demonstration in 1934.

Osteopaths help Men's Shed buy new safety saw

Our foremost concern at the Shed is safety, hardly surprising given that the aim of the Men’s Shed movement is to improve men’s health. Our safety management is based on all equipment complying with regulations, formalised training for members on each machine and a regular auditing program.

Above all that is the most important component, our buddy system, which requires each of us to look out for our fellow Shedmen to make sure we all follow safe practices including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) when required.

Thanks to the support of InForm Osteopathy we have now reduced our risk even further with the purchase of an industry-best-practice table saw, branded SawStop. If human skin touches the blade, this saw completely stops within five milliseconds and the blade drops below the table surface. So if the operator does get a bit too close, it should result in a minor cut rather than a lost finger. It is a hi-tech piece of kit and Gunther and Mick are still working out the finer points, ready to train members to use it safely. By the time you read this it should be creating sawdust.

Men’s Program Evening in Mt Macedon

Thursday 14 September, 6.30pm - 9pm

Macedon Ranges Suicide Prevention Action Group (MRSPAG) and Jesuit Social Services are offering an opportunity for Macedon Ranges men who have been bereaved by suicide to connect with each other.

Two of the group members and peer supporters, Marcus and Gerry, are hosting a relaxed barbecue dinner at the Mount Macedon Golf Club, followed by a guest speaker, Dr Rob Gordon OAM, clinical psychologist specialising in trauma and recovery.

This is an opportunity for men to connect with other men who have been bereaved by suicide in a relaxed and welcoming environment. If you would like to attend, please RSVP by Friday 8 September via email to peersupport@mrspag.com.au.

News from Macedon Seniors

After eight years our cook Jane has retired from the club. Thank you, Jane, for the many delicious meals you have prepared for us over the years.

Macedon Seniors now meet at Forty Street (formerly Macedon Lounge) in Victoria Street, Macedon, at 12 noon on Tuesdays. A twocourse meal is $15 for a non-member. To book, call Maxine on 0484 863 350.

In July, Macedon Seniors held a special three-course Christmas in July meal.

•

Frank and Tom from InForm Osteopathy flanked by Shedmen Gunther and Mick, behind the new SawStop.

Parkrun – fun, fitness and friends

Behind the counter...

My friend Mandy, previously more of a ‘cake and coffee girl’, started going to the gym with me 18 months ago and announced that she would like to set herself the goal of running the 10km event at the Melbourne Marathon in October. I was pretty excited to hear this. With the help of our trainers at the gym, she built up her distance on the treadmill each session. Once she could run 6km inside, it was time for her to try running outside ‘in the wild’, so we decided to try the Gisborne Parkrun.

Parkrun is a free, weekly, timed, 5km community event for participants of all standards, where you can walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate.

Two local blokes with young families

By Julie Ireland

A regular article about general health

There are currently 475 parkrun events taking place every weekend around Australia, with more being added all the time. You can go along to any event, any weekend.

The Dixon Field parkrun was started by Tom Kovacs in May this year. Tom is an inspirational man who lost a leg in an accident and now wears a prosthetic. He credits Parkrun and its community for helping him get

back on his feet (literally!) again. When we arrived at Dixon Field we were warmly welcomed by Tom, his wife Christine and their gorgeous dog Sydney, the parkrun mascot. All the volunteers and participants were really supportive and encouraging, and any trepidation we felt about not being able to complete the course or keep up just melted away. Once we started, volunteers clapped and encouraged us at every turn in the course and all the participants supported each other as we wound around the Gisborne Botanic Gardens and back to the finish line at Dixon Field (by the way, Mandy easily completed the 5km course!). I was overcome by the sense of community and how positive, inclusive and welcoming everyone was.

This month, we meet brothers-in-law Daniel Salpietro and Mark Scerri who own Fallen Freight on Prince Street, Gisborne.

I cannot recommend this community event more highly and look forward to seeing many more people taking part on Saturday mornings at 8am. And remember: it’s not all hard work; you can always go for coffee and breakfast afterwards (okay, or cake, Mandy)! Take care of yourselves.

Daniel and Mark opened Fallen Freight in December 2022, with the same ambitious goal of creating a family friendly cafe-bar.

photos provided by a one of those lucky haven’t changed much in

older Bob. Older Bob with staff members in

A winning message

opportunity to work for his athlete sponsor brand, Icon Sports Pty Ltd, which led him to open his own franchise store in Tasmania. After five years in Tasmania and three children,

Daniel and his wife Jackie decided it was time to move back to Gisborne. He also then decided to open two additional Icon Sports franchises. Mark grew up in Woodend, went to secondary school in Kyneton and played football for Kyneton Football Club while in school. He followed his dream to work in aviation and has done so for the past 15 years, travelling all over Essentially, Daniel and Mark have travelled a lot in their careers but continue to look back and remember the days of growing up in the Macedon Ranges community, playing local sports and spending time with family. They also remember not always having a place to visit locally, often having to travel to Melbourne or Bendigo to find a venue. This memory inspired them “to do something for Gisborne … and create a place where parents could have a drink and something to eat and the kids could go play.”

Daniel and Mark are hoping that through their business they can give back to the community that has given them and their families so much.

Home Care Packages available for eligible individuals

The Federal Government’s Home Care Package scheme provides money to eligible individuals to access services to enable them to live safely and independently at home. Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health has been a Home Care Package provider for the Macedon Ranges for the past two years and has just reopened its books to new clients.

The not-for-profit organisation can help people to manage Home Care Package funds and organise the services people need to keep living at home.

“We work with Home Care Package recipients to tailor services that meet their needs and their goals,” Sunbury and Cobaw’s community connections manager, Deb McCallum, says. “We offer a trusted, personalised support where the individual has choice and control over their care.

"You get to choose what services you get, where and when you get them and who you get them from.”

The types of services that can be purchased include help with personal care, housework, light gardening and minor maintenance, assistance with shopping or transport along with healthcare supports such as podiatry and physiotherapy. They can also find suitable social, activity and exercise groups locally.

To chat to someone from the team, call 5421 6061 or email hcp@scchc.org.au.

Ethalia Alekozoglou

Daniel Salpietro at Fallen Freight cafe which he runs with Mark Scerri.

Chloe Smith Photography

Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health, which also serves the Gisborne area, has reopened its Home Care Packages to new clients.

As part of the AFL Victoria TAC Road Safety campaign in July, community clubs were invited to submit new slogans to communicate road safety messages.

Kira Baldwin’s message, “My life is in your hands; your phone shouldn’t be,” was a winner and featured on an opening banner at Marvel Stadium on 22 July.

When Christmas isn’t Christmas for Woodend Lifestyle Carers Group

Well, we just made it into July by celebrating Winter Christmas extra early on the 6th WLCG members made a return visit to The Plough at Myrniong where a blazing log fire greeted us after a very pleasant coach trip through the forests and beautiful countryside along the way.

A welcoming glass of bubbles fitted the occasion and the Christmas fayre and exchange of gifts from Santa’s sack was a wonderful opportunity for everyone to sit back and enjoy good conversation getting to know more about each other, in warm and comfortable surroundings.

If you’ve never been to this particular hostelry you

are really missing out, and I’ve no doubt we’ll be heading back there next year.

To learn more of our friendly, social and informative events and our amazing plans for the future support of those affected by dementia come along to the Woodend RSL at 1pm on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month. Also, you can visit our website: wlcg.org.au or call 0476 373 483 for a chat.

A thought – is Christmas-in-July celebrated in the northern hemisphere and does the cook get all hot-and-bothered preparing turkey and eating plum pudding in their summer?

Cherry Servis

The pianola was moved from the nursing home to the Life Enhancement Program (LEP) room and has given residents many afternoons of pleasure. At one of these afternoons a lovely resident danced all around the LEP room much to the pleasure of the other residents. Between you and me, the dancer was our lovely Lorraine.

A lot of work has been done at the hostel. Walls have been taken down in the Elms, making a large bright and beautiful dining room. Residents can look out of windows in all directions and see beautiful trees and garden. The best part is that residents can see each other.

Our wonderful staff and chefs and kitchen staff attend to every resident’s needs and on behalf of the residents, thank you.

We had another lovely afternoon with a new entertainer by the name of Helen and singing Sadie the Cleaning Lady

Residents help the staff sometimes; it might be folding something or displaying the lovely flowers

BETTY'S BOOP

With Betty Doolan

that we receive each week from Hazel at Gisborne Cottage Flowers. Pat and other resident ladies put all the flowers in vases and Pat puts the vases all around the building, making our home very nice. A big ‘thank you’ to Pat and the flower ladies. Residents celebrated many special days last month like NAIDOC Week, Friendship Day, World Chocolate Day (this is the one I like), Bastille Day and many more.

We are all anxious to know who will win the football tipping.

Keep warm,

Betty

Woodend Lifestyle Carers Group members enjoy Christmas in early July.

Celebrating 30 years at Swinburne Avenue Children’s Centre

Swinburne Avenue Children’s Centre recently celebrated its 30th birthday milestone. The kindergarten was established in 1993 and has seen some renovations to the building and the playground in its 30 years of operation. It has strong links to the local community and primary schools in our area. To commemorate its 30 years, the kindergarten will hold celebrations with current children and staff, and collaborate with past and current staff and students to produce a commemorative ebook of photos and memories.

If you have a memory, or photos to share, email Clair at cjohnston@mrsc.vic.gov.au

Free reusable nappy workshop

Are you curious about modern cloth nappies? Whether you are motivated by cost savings, environmental impact by reducing waste, or health benefits for your child; join Leesa from Darlings

Downunder for a workshop to discover the world of modern cloth nappies. Leesa is a a mother of two toddlers. Her passion for cloth nappies has led her to running Darlings

Downunder store in Kyneton. She will take you through everything you need to know to get started with cloth nappies.

APRIL MOTORS

Join us at Riddells Creek Neighbourhood House on Tuesday 15 August at 10am. All participants receive a $20 gift voucher to spend on reusable cloth nappies and go into a prize draw to win $200 worth of nappies. There are limited spots available. To register, visit mrsc. vic.gov.au/nappies.

Macedon Ranges residents embrace FOGO

Since the start of the fourbin system, the amount of waste the shire is sending to landfill has reduced significantly.

The introduction of the food organics garden organics (FOGO) bin has seen nearly 30,000 tonnes of waste diverted from landfill. But if it is not going to landfill, where is it going?

FOGO materials collected from kerbside bins are taken to a company called Biomix in Stanhope, near Shepparton, and turned into Australian Standard compost. During this process, our loads are screened for quality and contaminants. The most common contaminants found are soft plastics (these belong in the red general waste bin), hard plastics (yellow recycling bin) and non-compostable bin liners (red general waste bin).

For the month of June, our contamination level was only 0.276 per cent – one of the lowest contamination levels we have had. The lower the contamination rate, the better the quality of compost. Thanks to the hard work of our residents, we have been able to maintain a contamination level of below one per cent for quite some time. We would like to thank and congratulate the community for their efforts.

Want to get your hands on some of this compost? Compost and mulch are available to buy. For information, visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/compost.

Village Connect events for over-55s

Are you 55 years or older and looking to connect with others locally? Council’s Village Connect program has a range of activities on offer for over-55s and carers.

August events include:

Pathways for Carers – Next two dates: Friday 4 August and 1 September. Meet at 9:45am at Barry Doyle Memorial Rotunda, 2 Campaspe Crescent, Kyneton. Free monthly walk for carers of older people, people with a disability or mental illness.

Board games for over-55s: Chess ─ Friday 25 August, 1:30pm, Gisborne Community Centre meeting room, 8a Hamilton Street. Gather and connect with likeminded individuals over a casual game of chess.

Digital Education session: Demystifying QR codes ─ 11am–12pm, Monday 21 August, Kyneton Town Hall. Spaces limited. Bookings essential.

To register for Village Connect events or find out more about the program, call 5422 0333 or visit mrsc. vic.gov.au/village-connect.

Storm recovery: ‘Cumulative Trauma’ with Dr Rob Gordon

6pm, Thursday 24 August, Woodend Community Centre

As part of ongoing support to communities following the flooding across the Macedon Ranges in October 2022, the Council will be hosting a free post-flood recovery session with clinical psychologist Dr Rob Gordon OAM to support the wellbeing of affected residents.

Dr Gordon will talk about the cumulative effects of multiple traumas in the community.

Dr Gordon specialises in trauma and recovery, and has work for many years with the Victorian Government and communities impacted by emergencies.

Registrations are essential. Visit mrsc.vic. gov.au/rob-gordon.

Environment events for August

Large tree and hollow identification –Citizen Science survey

● Mount Gisborne Bushland Reserve, South Gisborne, 10am-12pm, Thursday 10 August

● Barringo Reserve, New Gisborne, 10am-12pm, Thursday 24 August

Join bushland reserves officer Martin Roberts for an educational walk and talk. We will be documenting large tree locations and looking for hollows to highlight the critical role they play for fauna such as possums, gliders and birds. Information gathered will help create a database of large habitat trees.

Bird walk for beginners

Jacksons Creek, Gisborne, 9-10am, Thursday 17 August Bird enthusiast and Biodiversity Project officer Tanya Loos will take you along Jacksons Creek for an hour with the birds. Learn to identify the little birds, practise using the Birdata app to record sightings.

Nature guide in focus: Birds of the Macedon Ranges

Webinar via Zoom, 7-8pm, Wednesday 30 August

We’ll show how our bird guide can be used to springboard your birdwatching journey. Tips, tricks and tools of the trade such as binoculars and apps will be covered. A perfect way to lead into Bird Month and our annual Bird Blitz.

To register for above events, visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/ environment-events

Cool-ER Changes

We would love to hear from local community groups that are keen to participate in local climate action. If you would like to get involved in implementing the shire’s first Climate Emergency Response Plan (CERP), please contact us at environment@mrsc.vic.gov.au

Healthy Landscapes course and events

Healthy Landscapes is offering its successful sixday Holistic Grazing Management course, starting in September and finishing in May next year. The course is designed to assist land managers to improve their skills and knowledge about grazing livestock, resulting in an increase in soil carbon and perennial pasture species, including native species.

Other Healthy Landscapes events in August include

● A grazing and farming field activity at Drummond on Sunday 13 August, 10-11.30am – Led by the Council’s private-land conservation officer, Jason McAinch, learn from one another about how to graze animals in a sustainable way;

● Webinar: Local farmers revisited – Online, 7-8.30pm, Tuesday 15 August. Hear from local farmers on where they are on their holistic farming journey;

● Webinar: What is the carbon tally on your farm? Online, 7-8.30pm, Tuesday 29 August. Our panel will discuss how to calculate the carbon footprint on your farm, options to improve carbon position and the offsets market.

To register for these events and to express your interest in the program, or to sign up to our Healthy Landscapes eNews, visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/healthylandscapes.

Aquatics and Fitness

Spring into a healthier you! Take advantage of our spring offer and embark on a path to a more active lifestyle.

Join the Council's direct debit swim, gym, or gym/swim memberships between 21 August and 4 September and don’t pay anything until 29 September. Terms and conditions apply. This offer is available at Gisborne Fitness Centre and Gisborne Aquatic Centre. For information, contact the Fitness Centre on 5428 3318 or email gfc@mrsc.vic.gov.au, or the pool on 5421 1452 or email gac@mrsc.vic.gov.au

ReÞnance, renovate or just reevaluate

With interest rates on the rise, there’s never been a better time to review your home loan.

We’ll look at your rate, term, repayments, and equity, giving your loan a full check-up to make sure it’s still right for you and your current needs.

Australian success in Scotland

Our Gisborne club contributed to the cost of our member Erhan Cinar taking part in the Commonwealth Fly Fishing Championship in June at Islay, Scotland.

Well done, Australia: bronze team medal to Australian Men, Individual bronze medal to Erhan Cinar. The Jill Mandeno Trophy (to the highest-placed ladies’ team) to Australian Ladies, as well as gold Individual Ladies medal and a silver Individual Ladies medal.

Aussie Angler Fly Fishing sponsored “A night with Dobbo” at Gisborne with Rick Dobson spending the evening answering our questions in extensive detail.

He covered fly fishing equipment improvements with technical advances providing opportunities to buy better rods for less. He detailed methods and formulas for matching rods, lines, leaders and reels to achieve better casts. He provided tips such as: after the line gets wet and starts to stick to the rod (surface tension), a simple fix is to wrap a length of thin monofilament line closely around and along the rod. The fly line will no longer stick.

Mike Van de Graaf tutored our July fly tying group in tying the simple yet very effective Perdigon Fly. This fly originated in Spain as a Spanish nymph pattern used in competition in their local streams to catch their careful trout. The name is Spanish for shot (pellet). Mike showed us how to combine a tungsten bead on a hook with various coloured ties and a resin finish to tempt a wily trout.

If you would like to know more about the Calder Fly Fishing Association, please visit www.calderflyfishing. com.au.

Louis Bokor

Perdigon Fiesta Fly

Gisborne Foodbank is here to help

A recent article in The Guardian spoke about how the rising cost of living has meant that many more people are using local foodbanks to keep their heads above water. These are ordinary people, mostly in paid work, who are overwhelmed by the rising cost of food and household items, many of them finding that, after paying their rent or mortgage, utilities and other essential expenses, they do not have enough money left over to enable them to eat. Many others are finding that they can only afford the most basic of food items, with fresh fruit, vegetables and meat just too expensive for their limited budgets.

There is absolutely no shame in asking for help. That is what the Foodbank is here for: to assist people who are struggling to put food on the table, for as long as it takes for them to get back on their feet. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if we can help.

The Gisborne Foodbank is open on Wednesdays and Fridays from 10am to 3pm. Please contact us on mobile 0492 850 520, email info@gisbornefoodbank.org.au, or drop in on Wednesday or Friday.

Julie Ireland

Rotary youth exchange student arrives

The Rotary Club of Gisborne warmly welcomed our first exchange student since COVID. Ronja Ollig from Germany arrived on Tuesday 11 July and was greeted at the airport by several members of the club and her host family.

Ronja will be hosted by Gisborne Rotary for the first six months and Woodend Club for the next six months. She will attend Braemar College while here and is also looking forward to many amazing experiences while with us in the Macedon Ranges.

News from Gisborne-Macedon Ranges RSL

The Gisborne and Macedon Ranges RSL Sub-Branch will lay a wreath at the Gisborne Cenotaph on 18 August to mark the anniversary of the end of Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War. If you wish to attend or lay a wreath, please contact our secretary via email at admin@gmrrsl. com.au.

Our sub-branch was most pleased to join other RSLs in the district at a lunch to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Legacy which has supported veterans’ families under financial stress since its founding in 1923.

The 44 Legacy clubs around Australia continue to

provide care for the families of service personnel from past and recent conflicts as well as those that have served in peacekeeping operations across the globe.

The sub-branch attended the recent RSL State Annual Conference. Key matters that were discussed were RSL Victoria’s Strategic Plan for 2023-28 and the status of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide. Our state RSL will be providing a further submission to that inquiry in August.

Just a reminder too that you do not have to be an RSL member to receive assistance from RSL Victoria; you only have to be a current or former member of the Australian Defence Force, our allies, or a

The Rotary Club of Gisborne had their changeover luncheon on 25 June with the induction of the new board for the next Rotary Year. Barry Wills is the incoming President and looking forward to a great year ahead. The club meets at the Telegraph Hotel on the first and third Tuesdays of the month at 7pm. If you would like to come along and find out what we do and how we do it, please call Secretary Richard Stewart on 0400 899 607.

Lyn Robinson

dependant of either group.

The Gisborne & Macedon Ranges

RSL Sub-Branch meets at the Gisborne Golf Club at 1.30pm on the first Monday of each month. Current and former serving members of the ADF, members of the emergency services and those members of the community who share the values of RSL are welcome to attend. Please advise our secretary via email at admin@gmrrsl.com.au or leave a message on the Gisborne Macedon Ranges Facebook page or Instagram.

Darren Grevis-James

Darren Grevis-James President

Lyn Robinson, Noeline Richardson, Ronja Ollig, host sister Mia Turel and Barry Wills

Foodbank volunteers Lorna and Lynne are here to help.

GREAT at work in the community

Continuing our articles about the GREAT Association –Gisborne Region Events Activities Tourism – this month we look at some of the infrastructure that GREAT has contributed to enhance the township of Gisborne. This is in addition to the many grants and donations given to local community organisations. All funds come from the market.

Many readers would be familiar with the flagpoles and banners that grace Aitken Street. Few would realise that these flagpoles and the succession of different banners over the years were all paid for by the GREAT Association since they were installed in 2007.

The poles and banners were part of a much larger project, the Heritage Parklands Precinct Project, coordinated by GREAT and funded by GREAT, the State Government, the council, community groups and Melbourne Water. This project was announced on site by John Brumby in May 2006 and completed within two years.

In 2022 the banners had become shabby and torn, so GREAT bought new sets. This year we replaced new ropes and necklaces on the flagpoles as these were worn. We will also be replacing the set of Christmas banners, which are rolled out every Christmas to add festivity to Aitken Street.

Other items funded by GREAT include three flagpoles and Australian, Indigenous and Victorian flags in the John Aitken Reserve; barbecue, paths, tables and benches in the John Aitken Reserve; $10,000 contribution to Gardiner Reserve electronic scoreboard; barbecue in the GREAT space at the swimming centre; ‘All Abilities’ carousel at Riddells Creek Lions Park ($2000 contribution); RSL flagpole near the war memorial in Howey Reserve, Hamilton Street; Court House 'Quiet Place' (with Historical Society); and path through Howey Reserve, with heritage plaques provided by the Historical Society.

GREAT is proud to have contributed to the community in this way, and we plan more in coming months. For all enquiries, including grants and donations, opportunities to volunteer, etc, contact us at greatgisborne@gmail.com or come and see us at the shop (opposite Foodworks on Hamilton Street) most Monday and Thursday mornings.

Graeme Millar commemorated

The extraordinary community service of the late Graeme Millar OAM has recently been recognised with the funding of a picnic setting in John Aitken Reserve with a plaque to come shortly. See the Lions Club report below.

Rick Arden, President, GREAT Association Inc.

Lions barbecue shelter finally complete

A Gisborne and District Lions Club project that began in April 2020 was finally completed last month.

The Lions Club identified that the bluestone barbecue with a small run-down cover in John Aitken Reserve in Gisborne needed replacing. It was agreed with the

council that the Lions Club would fund a new roof over the barbecue.

Once the roof was constructed, the council decided to concrete the area and replace the barbecue. The only thing missing for a considerable period of time has been a table and bench seats. Following discussions with the council, the Lions Club agreed to fund the acquisition of these items. However, following an approach by the GREAT Association (Gisborne Region Events Activities Tourism), it was agreed that GREAT would reimburse the Lions Club for the cost of the table and bench seating and the association would place a suitable plaque on the table recognising the considerable contribution of Graeme Millar OAM to the Gisborne community.

Graeme was a founding member of GREAT and was for a period a member of the Lions Club.

Russell Walker

The flagpoles in Autken Street were funded by the GREAT Association.

Lions Club president Russell Walker (left) with former president Ross Sapwell under the new barbecue shelter in John Aitken Reserve in Gisborne.

Russell Walker beside the old shelter and barbecue that has been replaced.

LOCAL HISTORY

Recollections of a Visit to Port Phillip 1853-1855

William Dobie arrived in Port Phillip (Victoria) in March 1853 in poor health. He set off in a dog cart for a visit to a sheep station on the Loddon River the next month. He found no suitable business opening in Australia so returned to Scotland in 1855 and in 1858 became a merchant in Genoa. In poor health, he returned to Britain in 1864 to visit his mother in Exeter, where he died, and is buried in the Exeter General Cemetery.

Since the time of which I write, the Colony has had a strong reinforcement in the female line. Thanks to Mrs Chisholm among others for supplying the community with some ship-loads of needlewomen, whose accomplishments have already had their humanizing influences on the men of Melbourne and beyond.

It was with no feeling of regret that I found myself, seated in a dog cart, on my way into the bush. I had become tired of Melbourne life and looked forward to the change to bush life with considerable pleasure. My health being but indifferent, made the prospect of a quieter life most agreeable.

Our road lay in the thoroughfare between Melbourne, Forest Creek and the Bendigo diggings, to a sheep station on the River Loddon ... I had not much comfort in the vehicle in which I was seated, which swung back and forth on the uneven roads, like a ship in a cross sea. I was compelled to be constantly on the look-out, for if unprepared, a sudden lurch of the machine would have sent me spinning in to the middle of the road, an incident in travelling which it is generally desirable to avoid.

Before I got to my journey’s end, I had had enough of it. Every bone in my body ached and my hands, from holding on to the back of the dog-cart, were as blistered and sore as if I had been a fortnight at the diggings sinking a hole. I soon found, after many sighs, the comforts in a new country are few and far between. The man who cannot dispense with his comforts should wait a bit before putting his foot in Victoria and if he be a valetudinarian, let him not put his foot in it at all.

By the time I reached my destination,

An extract from the writings of William Wilson Dobie, Edinburgh, 1856.

Edited by Phyllis Boyd OAM

I had had more than enough of bush travelling on the back seat of a dog-cart, which on macadamised roads, would have been nothing remarkable, but was quite unadapted for the undulating tracks and roads of the bush. What a relief it was to get off for an hour or so at different stages. If I had been put upon a dog-cart as a punishment for crime, my conscience would have been easy on the score of expiation at the end of the journey.

A good pair of horses composed the tandem and my friend who held the reins was a good whip. So far fortunate, as steady horses and good driving are particularly essential to safety on such roads.

Some of our crossing places were ugly to look at, where the steep banks of a creek rising on each side ‘like lofty walls’, frequently presented themselves. To one unaccustomed to this style of road, they appeared almost unsurmountable, looking like sloughs of despond in the way of our progress.

The roads

Aportion of the road to Bendigo was then in a state of forwardness. Government labourers, at ten shillings a day, were breaking stones with what is called ‘the Government stroke’, which is a slow-going, anti-sweating kind of motion; or amusing themselves with a wheelbarrow and a spade, enjoying

The Dobie brothers

their pipes and looking forward to sundown, when the fatigues of the day would be over.

We frequently came to parts of the road where drays had either broken down or the horses or bullocks had knocked up from the difficulties to be encountered.

The whip was, in many instances, unmercifully applied and the poor brutes

William Dobie was in Australia to visit his brother John, who had settled in Victoria in the 1840s and held large squatting stations with a Scottish friend, John Hunter Kerr. Dobie Creek near Ararat was named for him.

The brothers were born in Beith, Scotland, where their father James was a lawyer and also a widely recognised antiquarian.

A short while after his Australian trip, William Dobie went to Italy where he went into business as a merchant. He was on a visit to his mother, Margaret, who was temporarily living in Essex, England, when he died in 1864 at the age of 37.

John Dobie left Australia for South Africa in 1862 and became well known for his scribbles on South Africa.

were rendered perfectly wild from their oft-renewed but ineffectual efforts and the curses and severities applied by the drivers. Innumerable decaying carcasses of horses and bullocks... saluted our nostrils as we passed, sometimes invisible to the eye, but to be smelt afar.

The road to the diggings was thronged with travellers, some with drays, others with wives and families in light carts, while many more trudged thither on foot with their ‘swags’ on their backs, dusty, weary, foot-sore new chums, on their first trip to the diggings to realize their golden dreams or to join the too-general disappointment of their predecessors.

Our resting places for the night were at the wayside inns, at the most convenient distances for a day’s journey and at these, the accommodation for man and beast was what I can only characterize as wretched. If the traveller awoke in the morning after a good night’s rest, he might congratulate himself; but a slight inspection of the couch or stretcher allotted for his repose would require all his philosophy, unless his notions of cleanliness or undisturbed rest were by no means particular. Quiet during the night was not to be looked for, as the bar was open at all hours to all customers and every now and then a drunken shout would startle the halfasleep traveller and set him a-scratching again. The rooms in these greedy, filthy mannerless establishments had quite a stuck-up [makeshift] appearance, the public rooms having a dirty bandbox look, with a tawdry paper on the walls of so unsubstantial appearance that it was a strong temptation to knock one’s fist through the greasy partitions, on which were suspended one or two convict-looking pictures, who looked at you sneakily, as if they thought they knew that they had been sent across the seas on account of their ugly, thievish, murdering looks. Service at these places is one of those things that the traveller must dispense with as much as is possible. If he gets his boots brushed... he may consider himself as having received every attention.

At a place called Aitkens Gap where we rested the first night after leaving Melbourne, our sitting room was our

Willliam Wilson Dobie

Recollections of a Visit to Port Phillip

bedroom. A little old waiter who, 'though banished, yet a trueborn Englishman' was the most remarkable specimen of domestic politeness and attention I ever met within the Colony. He frisked about amazingly, as if it had been a delight of his old heart to attend to our wants. When our party, which numbered eight or nine altogether, felt generally disposed to turn in for the night, the small waiter brought in to the room, stretcher after stretcher, rolls of mattresses and piles of blankets and with wonderful arrangement, disposed of us all for the night on the floor of the grand salon, or small parlour, which term may be considered most appropriate.

The little waiter was up when we arose which was with the sun and made ready some coffee for us, before we started in the clear, cold morning air.

Horses were not considered very secure in the stables at the inns, as it not infrequently happened that the stables were broken into at night and the steed stolen. That a perplexity, such as this would have been to our onwards movements did not happen to us, I now regret, as it would have been something to record of our journey which was without anything like adventure.

Our fare at these villainous specimens of the hotel tribe was usually mutton chops and bread and, according to the choice of each individual of our party, tea or something more potent, for which we had to pay most extravagantly.

At the Carlsruhe Inn we stopped for

luncheon, consisting of some greasy chops and ale, costing us somewhere about 10 shillings a head, the ale charged at eight shillings a bottle. Two of the mounted police arrived while we were there. They had been out in search of a bushranger who had been reported at the Mount Macedon Police Station as prowling in the Black Forest.

Somemiles from Carlsruhe, they came upon a man on horseback, whose appearance excited their suspicions that he was the bush ranger they were in search of. He was at some distance when they first got eyes upon him and upon their making towards him, he set off at full speed in another direction. The police gave chase and after an exciting run of some miles, came upon the man whom they brought to bay. But policemen can be but short-sighted mortals everywhere.

To their amazement the notorious bushranger who they had so gallantly captured turned out to be a terrified ‘squatter’ who, seeing two disagreeable looking characters coming towards him, the policemen having been in plain clothes, took alarm and took his horse to speed to escape from their clutches.

Captors and captive, deceiving and deceived, enjoyed a hearty laugh at the whole affair, the former returning to their quarters disappointed of their prey, while the latter was glad to return to his home intact with both his possessions, his horse and his wearing apparel."

Genies' Family History Month seminar on convicts

August is National Family History Month, and there are many genealogical events happening right across Australasia.

This year the Gisborne Genealogical Group will be holding a full day seminar on Saturday 26 August, the topic ‘Convicts’. It will be held at the Uniting Church, Gisborne, starting at 9.30am.

There will be three sessions. Bronwyn Quint, from the Genealogical Society of Victoria’s special group the Descendants of Convicts, is our first speaker.

Professor Janet McCalman will present in the afternoon, her topic ‘The Vandemonians’. She has also written a book on this subject.

Between the guest speaker sessions, Genealogical Group members will present short stories they have written about their own convict ancestors, and other stories will be on display, along with books and memorabilia.

Morning and afternoon tea is provided, BYO lunch (or buy at the shops). Cost is $25 ($20 for GGG members). Please book with Lorna Jackson on 0402 091 034 or email lorna_jackson@bigpond.com.

Even if you don’t have convict ancestors you can be assured of an

Saturday 26 August starting 9.30am.

1 Bronwyn Quint, Genealogical Society of Victoria's Descendants of Convicts group.

2 Gisborne Genealogical Group stories on convict ancestors.

3 Prof Janet McCalman on 'The Vandemonians'

interesting day.

The Family History Room, adjoining the Gisborne Library, is open each Tuesday from 10am to 1pm, and Thursday 2pm to 5pm. During the week preceding the Seminar (21-25 August) the room will be open each day from 1pm to 4pm, with volunteers available to assist you with your research.

The next Saturday Workshop will be held on 5 August at 10am in the Family History Room. Dr Fran Thiele will lead a discussion on Victorian Land Records. Please book with Lorna. Further details are on our website www.ggg.org.au

Lyn Hall, President

Janet McCalman

Lyn Hall

New classes to get cheesy about

Macedon Ranges

Further Eduction Centre has some new classes coming up in early September running over the weekend so more people can join. Get in early for soft cheese-making for beginners (Sunday 10 September, 10am-3pm) or fermenting made easy (Saturday 9 September, 10am-3pm) workshops with a specialist tutor. There are limited places!

Learn how to paint and dye your own silk scarves with a local Macedon Ranges artist. This class will be held in the artist’s studio in Macedon on Saturday 2 September, 9.30am to 12 noon.

Macedon Ranges Further Education Centre has classes available across a range of topics including some brandnew courses. MRFEC offers local opportunities with small class sizes and highly skilled and experienced tutors in

a friendly environment. We are located next to the Gisborne Fitness Centre.

MRFEC is looking for tutors who are available weeknights and evenings, especially in the arts and crafts area. Contact the centre for more information.

For more information generally, go to the MRFEC website, Facebook page or contact MRFEC on 5428 3799 or email enquiries@mrfec.net.au.

For copies of the term schedule: MRFEC basket next to Chemist Warehouse, Libraries or MRFEC office.

August at Gisborne Library

Saturday Storytime –Saturday 5 August

Come along to our Saturday Storytime filled with great stories, songs and rhymes for little ones.

Nature Table – Monday 7 to Saturday 26 August

Drop in and get curious about nature. Read about something that is millions of years old, discover the colourful world of camouflage or measure yourself against a dinosaur. Answer some treasure-hunt questions and add items to our table if you wish.

Author Talk – Judy Ryan: You Talk, We Die –

Thursday 31 August, 2-3pm

You Talk, We Die is Judy’s retelling of how she mobilised the community and people of influence to finally recognise drug use in Richmond as a health issue and not a criminal one. Join us to hear Judy’s frank and moving account

of how grass-roots campaigning of compassionate residents led to a necessary intervention in a public health crisis.

Book sales and signings. Bookings are essential. Book online via the website www.goldfieldslibraries.com or phone us on 5428 3962.

To advertise in the Gazette, contact our advertising coordinator via email gisbornegazette advertising@ gmail.com

Ad sizes and prices are also available on our website, gisborne gazette.org.au

•

• We are able to provide support services to both aged care and

• We have the capacity to welcome new clients.

• Here to support you to live your best life and achieve your goals by providing the services you require.

• Workers are all experienced, reference and police checked and we work with you to determine workers that are the best fit possible.

• If we can be of any assistance please contact us for a no obligation chat.

P: 0447 400 001 E: admin@firstchoicecaresolutions.com.au www.firstchoicecaresolutions.com.au

Office based in New Gisborne but we come to you with Covid safe measures. Follow us on Facebook

1000 Books Before School

Join

and make your home a reading home.

Reading daily with your child encourages a love of language and story and helps develop vital skills that will set them up for success at school and beyond.

Children aged up to five years are invited to sign up. It is free and any book anywhere counts – at home, Storytime, playgroup, creche or kinder. You can even read the same book over and over again!

We’ll help you get started, support you along the way and make it a whole lot of fun. Register on our website or come into the library.

Submitted by Georgia Emonson

Locally owned and operated providing services to client in the Macedon Ranges, Hume, Mt Alexander, Hepburn and surrounds

NDIS participants.

'A helping hand in life'

Calligraphy tutor Stephen Wright with student Merle Tait.

Some classes to run at weekends

Walking football starts in Woodend

U3A Kyneton has been trialling walking football (soccer) on a small court at the Kyneton Mechanics Institute for the last few months.

The sessions are now moving to a larger court at the Buffalo Stadium in Woodend thanks to a grant from the council who is subsidising the rental of the venue whilst numbers increase.

Walking football (soccer) is a smallsided, low-impact, modified version of the game, suitable for all levels of ability and fitness, from people who are returning to sport after a break to those who have never played before. Walking football aims to provide participants physical and mental health benefits, social contentedness and promotion of the benefits of ongoing physical activity.

Football Victoria’s walking football programs, run in partnership with Active Ageing Australia, offer a social, smallsided version of football, specifically modified to allow all participants to enjoy the game.

It provides players of all ages and abilities a safe, fun and social environment to play the game.

U3A Kyneton manages the walking football sessions and provides coaching and umpiring. The program will highlight the health, well-being and social benefits of regular football and offer exercise activities for older people.

Football Victoria’s walking football program caters for individuals of all ages, with a focus on men and women aged over 55 years.

Runners and comfortable clothing

A 3

KYNETON

Community choir (and more) at Macedon Community House

A call is aimed at adults of all ages, genders and abilities to develop a strong SATB (soprano, alto, tenor, bass) choir, as well as have a great deal of fun. We need people to come along to sing, an accompanist (most probably a pianist, but not necessarily), people who may like to lead or share the lead in conducting, and enthusiasm and a collaborative approach. Please contact Dean on deanmichael21@ outlook.com to register your interest and receive further information.

Permies at the House

Check out our Facebook page Permies @ the House for those interested in permaculture and for past course participants to find out about permaculture activities such as produce swaps, book clubs and more.

Sit and Sew Craft Group Thursdays 10am-12 noon

Bring your own sewing, knitting or craft project to the community house on Thursdays and meet creative, like-minded locals.

Library drop in and co-working space

Fridays 10am-1pm

Playgroup now Mondays and Wednesdays 9.30am-12.30pm

New families are welcome to join our Monday and Wednesday morning playgroups. Please email playgroup@ mmmcommunityhouse.org. The Community House early years program is supported by the Foundation for Regional and Rural Renewal.

Introduction to Permaculture

Term 4 course: Tuesday 10 October to 17 November in partnership with Macedon Ranges Further Education. Please register interest via MRFEC (5428 3799; enquiries@mrfec.net.au).

Pregnancy Yoga

Wednesdays 1.30-2.30pm

For more information and to discuss prerequisite requirements, please contact Loris at loriscassar@gmail.com.

House Hire

are all that are required to participate in this entertaining activity.

Membership is $40 to join U3A Kyneton and for the rest of the year there is no additional charge for walking football sessions.

Further information can be found on the U3A Kyneton website www. u3akyneton.org.au.

Roni Taubman

In partnership with Goldfields Libraries, our Community Street Library is open every Friday. No membership required: just drop by, enjoy a coffee or tea, and browse our shelves for a book to borrow. Volunteers will be there to help and receive any goodquality books you may wish to donate. You can also bring work from home as we are now connected to the NBN. Gold coin donation for tea and coffee.

Please contact us if you wish to hire the house for your community activity, classes, meetings or kids party at hello@ mmmcommunityhouse.org.

Volunteer with us

As we are run solely by passionate volunteers, we could really use your time and skills – either by joining our committee of management or working groups. Please contact hello@mmmcommunityhouse. org.

MACEDON & MOUNT MACED0N COMMUNITY HOUSE

UNIVERSITY OF THE THIRD AGE

Walking football trial in the Kyneton Mechanics Institute. Shouts of “Goal!” will have provided great echoes.

Craft Corner

Mary-Beth O’Brien

Bringing art to the people: yarn bombing

The phenomenon of yarn bombing sounds dangerous, however in truth is more fun and intriguing than harmful.

Yarn bombing is a creative expression of transforming everyday objects or public spaces into art installations, providing many benefits: a pleasure to the eye; bringing art to the people; a conversation starter, as everybody is an art critic at heart. You may have glimpsed examples of yarn bombing, distinguished by the use of form and colour: bright and bold; choice of fibre and technique; crochet, weaved or knitted.

Yarn bombing generates positive community energy. Through the many months of COVID isolation, many communities yarn bombed in common community spaces to demonstrate the need to connect. The completed work then was available to all and sundry. Viewed in passing either walking or driving and without the need to break with any COVID isolation rules.

All members of the community young, old and differently abled contributed to building and strengthening community ties throughout a very difficult time.

Yarn bombing by fibre artists uses neglected or dull areas of the public landscape to highlight the space for the public’s benefit and deepen the appreciation for everyday objects in local surrounds. With simple everyday accessible tools and materials, some coordination and planning and a neglected public space, yarn bombing may be an activity that you with a few friends might give a try – with requisite approval of course.

CWA Gisborne kept in stitches

Whether embroidering for future creative arts competitions, knitting or sewing items for stalls, it was a busy Coffee, Craft and Chat morning in July. All ladies are welcome to drop into the stadium at the Gisborne Secondary College for a cuppa and see what we are up to, usually the third Monday of the month from 10am.

Planning is underway for the Daffodil Festival in Kyneton. Five of our CWA branches get together with stalls, lunches and morning and afternoon teas in the Masonic Hall in Kyneton, so keep 9 and 10 September in mind for a treat.

We also have a stall at Bunnings in Sunbury coming up on Thursday 31 August between 5 and 7pm. We will have some gifts for Father’s Day and some goodies to eat for sale.

We travelled to Craigieburn for their Association Day, dodging the roadworks along the way.

We enjoyed a lovely lunch and had a good laugh at the jokes that were told, especially Lyn’s, from Kyneton.

Our next meeting is Monday 14 August and Coffee, Craft and Chat is on the 21st, both at 10am.

Christine Edwards

KYNETON ANTIQUE FAIR

The Kyneton Antique Fair will be held on the first weekend of September at Sacred Heart College, Kyneton, in the school's Quambi Stadium.

This is a major fundraising event for Macedon Ranges Friends of Turiscai, who celebrate 15 years of friendship with the community of Turiscai in Timor Leste. Macedon Ranges Friends of East Timor has been raising funds for community projects in Turiscai since 2008.

Indulge yourself with antiques, collectables and vintage for every taste, silver, fine china, jewellery, linen, glassware, lithographs, furniture and much more. There will be more than 25 dealers in situ. Tasty refreshments and coffee with a Timorese flavour will be available.

Enquiries to mrfoet@bigpond.com or 0411 208 448 or 0433 855 033. Admission: $8 adults; children free.

Saturday 2 September, 9am to 4pm, Sunday 3 September, 10am-4pm. Entry via Begg Street. Plenty of parking adjacent to the venue.

Macedon CWA news

It is exciting to see August arrive – the last month of winter. We see blossoms, daffodils and lots of green shoots appearing in our gardens, and every now and again we get a mild day.

There is still plenty of chilly weather to come so keep up the lovely soups, casseroles and puddings that help to warm us up on cold days. CWA has a collection of cookbooks containing many recipes for these seasonal favourites. Go to the CWA of Victoria website (cwaofvic.org.au) to see what is available.

During July we enjoyed a Macedon Ranges Group walk. We went through Macedon Cemetery and then did a couple of laps around the Tony Clarke Reserve oval. We finished off at Macedon Lounge (since renamed) for a welcome cup of coffee. This month we hope to go to another Macedon Ranges town to keep up our fitness while taking in the sights in a different environment…. still with that cuppa as a reward at the end.

A big thank you to all who supported our ‘Christmas in July’. We enjoyed a very happy day of good company, food and some surprises. The money raised will help us support some charitable organisations.

As well as our usual meeting this month we will have a day out at the Kyneton Association Day. It is always good to catch up with our friends from other branches.

If you would like to be a part of our friendly branch or would like more information on CWA, please call me, Anne Fyfield, on 5426 2210.

nixon financial services pty ltd

nixon financial services pty ltd

Christine Edwards

A yarnbombed tree in north-east Tasmania that has become a tourist attraction.

‘Definitely a   comedy!’

A feast of Shakespeare in 97 minutes

The Mount Players president recently said, “It’s amazing that in the past 51 years our company has never performed any of Shakespeare’s plays."

To rectify this, we are going to attempt to do all of them in one night! Thirty-seven plays in 97 minutes with three actors... What could possibly go wrong?

The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) is a delightful, fast-paced romp through the Bard’s work as three manic men in tights hurtle through all of Shakespeare’s plays, leaving you in stitches.

The Mount Players join FizzWack Theatre to bring you a show that takes those long, sometimes tedious and serious subjects, and condenses them into a couple of hours of frivolity.

Warning! Those with heart problems, bladder issues, inner-ear disorders, outer-ear disorders, Shakespearean scholarships, gout, and male pattern baldness enter at their own risk!

If you love Shakespeare, you will love this show. If you hate Shakespeare, you will love this show. Running from August 18 to 26. It is going to be a real hoot so don’t miss out.

For full details and to book tickets, go to www. themountplayers.com or call 5426 1892.

Meandering weekend of photography

Members of Macedon Ranges Photographic Society were recently out and about in the Benalla area with an organised weekend walkabout to the Winton Wetlands and Silo Art Trail.

The wetlands formed the backdrop for experimenting with night photography and a chance to practise long exposure settings. Knowledge was patiently shared and some great images were captured despite cloudy skies. We visited the wetlands again the following morning, before continuing along the tourist art trail.

We stopped off in five rural towns to capture the silo art, some towns now have other structures painted up as well. The silos are well worth a visit. The paintings, by various talented artists, depict life and nature in the local areas. We managed to wander around Shepparton to look at the Cow Moooving Art Exhibition. 3D life-sized cows were everywhere we turned.

Macedon Ranges Photographic Society welcomes new members. The club generally meets on the first Tuesday of the month, followed by the next Monday at Dromkeen in Riddells Creek. Social chats start at 7pm with the meeting beginning at 7.30pm. Please visit www.macedon-ranges-photography.org.au

Sue Steward

CONNECT, APART

Karen Vandermerwe and Helen Fraser believe Connect, Apart explores the notion that we all need to connect with one another for our mental and emotional wellbeing. Their joint exhibition explores this idea post-COVID lockdowns.

Karen and Helen found new ways to ‘Connect, Apart’ throughout the lockdowns which helped them to cope with this challenging time. They understood that sharing a meal is an age-old and much valued notion of connection and this is how Connect, Apart was conceived.

The 'Connect, Apart' Dinner Party grew and evolved into an installation combining handmade ceramic dinner wares, set out at a distance on a long dining table with hand-stitched napery, and painted art works on the surrounding walls to reflect on the emotions and language we all spoke throughout this time.

The artists, like all of us, experienced a rollercoaster mixture of fear, loss, anger and despair. They believe we all missed our connections with others terribly when we were ordered to stay at home and stay apart. It challenged the very fabric of our being.

Karen and Helen invite you to visit their 'Connect, Apart’ Dining Room from Monday 7 August to Sunday 3 September to reflect.

For more information contact Helen Fraser on 0418 377 980 or helenfraserartist@bigpond.com.

All works will be for sale through the gallery and the launch will be held on Sunday 13 August from 11am to 1pm

Visit the Gallery to enter our competition to win an original drawing and ceramic valued at $120, to be drawn on Sunday 3 September.

Sue Anson, 0413 581 632

Winton Wetland.

Picture: Wendy Omyla

Submitted by Karen Hunt

Pictures by Sue Steward

KYNETON TOWN HALL EVENTS

Elton & Billy – Face to Face 25th Anniversary Tour 8pm, Friday 4 August

Australia’s premier Elton John performer, Greg Andrew, and premier Billy Joel performer, Anthony Mara, come together to celebrate The Rocketman and The Piano Man. This is one incredible show you don’t want to miss, backed by a masterful band of musicians and packed with hit after hit including Benny and The Jets, Rocketman, Tell Her About It, Piano Man and many more.

Toni Childs – Retrospective 7:30pm, Saturday 26 August

Join the legendary Toni Childs for a special performance as she celebrates her life’s musical works. Toni will be performing hits and fan favourites from Union, House of Hope, The Woman’s Boat and Keep the Faith. Her live shows are lifechanging experiences and aren’t to be missed as her voice penetrates deep into your body and soul.

MARK

THE DIARY – Coming in September:

The Black Sorrows in Concert 4pm, Sunday 10 September

To buy tickets to Kyneton Town Hall events, visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/buytickets or call 1300 888 802 (10am to 4pm, weekdays).

Duo of brilliant pianists for Brahms

After a successful winter cabaret packed with talent, lots of fun and highly successful fundraising activities, courtesy of the generosity of local individuals and businesses, the Gisborne Singers are starting practice for their next performance.

Brahms’ Liebeslieder Waltzes will be performed at the Church of the Resurrection in Macedon on 29 October. The work involves four-hand piano accompaniment (a style popular in the 19th century where two pianists sit side by side at one piano).

Choral music to transport the soul

In this still wintry season music lovers can look forward to a heart-warming performance entitled Sistine Chapel by the Australian Chamber Choir on Saturday 19 August at 3pm at the Church of the Resurrection, Macedon. The program features two major works by Giovanni da Palestrina, the motet Sicut cervus and Missa Papae Marcelli. Appointed to the Sistine Chapel in 1555, Palestrina was dismissed after a few months due to his married status (he was also father of four children). However, he was invited back 16 years later and directed the choir from 1571 until his death in 1594.

TENORS AND BASSES ARE

Talented choir accompanist Anna Zuidland will be joined by guest pianist Elyane Laussade. Elyane has delighted audiences on five continents with her imaginative and strongly individual playing. Originally from the US, she has now established herself as one of Australia’s finest performers. She has performed with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and has been featured by ABC Classic FM and 3MBS in studio recordings and live broadcasts.

Anna Zuidland (formerly Clarke) is a former student of Elyane’s when studying a Bachelor of Music Performance at the Victorian College of the Arts. Anna developed an interest in vocal accompaniment from an early age, encouraged by her mother, a classical voice teacher. She has performed as both a soloist and accompanist on 3MBS radio.

Brahms Liebeslieder Waltzes is a collection of love songs in the Landler style, a folk dance popular at the end of the 18th century. Liebeslieder translates as love song and the lyrics come from Georg Friedrich Daumer’s Polydora, a collection of folk songs and love poems.

New singers are always welcome to our choir and now is a great time to join. We rehearse from 7.30pm to 10pm on Wednesdays at the Gisborne Uniting Church in Brantome Street, Gisborne.

Enquiries: www.gisborne.harmonysite.com or phone 0408 156 263.

Two madrigals to sonnets by Michelangelo Buonarotti (artist of the most celebrated fresco in the chapel) by Jacques Arcadelt (director of the Chapel Choir 153951) provide a colourful contrast to Palestrina’s suave polyphony. The presence of the outstanding and very cosmopolitan musician Josquin des Prez in the Chapel Choir, although short-lived (c. 1489-94) added greatly to its prestige. He is represented by the iconic motet Ave Maria.

Not surprisingly the highlight of the program is Allegri’s much-loved Miserere, a work that the 14-yearold Mozart wrote out from memory after the spellbinding experience of hearing it in the chapel.

The tantalising high Cs will be taken by Kyneton singer Elspeth Bawden, whose solo singing in the choir’s recent performance of the Mozart Requiem was much admired.

Bawden

Just to show that there is more to Allegri than the Miserere, the concert will conclude with his uplifting motet Christus resurgens.

For bookings, please go to www.auschoir.org.

Congratulations to Sack of Flour, winners of the Macedon Ranges Battle of the Bands held at Kyneton Town Hall on 28 July. The event was presented by Music in the Sticks (MITS), a council program for youth interested in the events industry.

We were excited to list with Rhys’s new company and knew instantly that we would be in good hands. We can’t say enough about Rhys as a person and agent that we trusted wholeheartedly. Rhys’s integrity and honesty is second to none and he supports you every step of the way, including tips that made a huge difference to our property. His enthusiasm and passion were as though he were selling his own home. Sale in 3 weeks, happy vendors, happy purchasers. Don’t look anywhere else, Rhys is the best!”

Real Estate, from a new perspective.

Rhys Nuttall 0438 383 221 rhys@boundrealestate.com.au

Winners: Sack of Flour.

Alison Kinghorn

Anna Zuidland

Elyane Laussade

Elspeth

“ELIJAH”

ART SHOW

GISBORNE SECONDARY COLLEGE

Students take the running in mental wellbeing message

Gisborne Secondary College Wellbeing CoCaptains Emily Duoba and Zoe Phillips organised and hosted an art show on 22 July to showcase the talent of students and raise awareness of youth mental health and support services.

The theme of the show was “What is in your emotional backpack?” and college students and year 6s from surrounding primary schools were encouraged to submit or present a piece of art, which could include music or dance.

Emily said the inspiration for the show's concept came from how students come to school with school bags, laptops and pencil cases and if one item is forgotten it affects how they can learn.

“If you don’t have one of them, you are unable to work to your full potential, just like how hard it is to work when you are carrying all the stress, mental illnesses, and everything else that can come with life….students and teachers may be unaware of all these,” she said.

The event was also a fundraiser and money was raised for Beyond Blue, which specialises in mental health and wellbeing support programs for issues related to depression, anxiety and other related mental illnesses, and Backpack Bed, a charity that provides emergency relief beds for the homeless.

Organisers Zoe, Ash and Emily.

My Saviour Bluey, by Claire.

Jess

Toby and Ava.

KIDS' CORNER spot the difference

1 What is the largest planet in our Solar System?

2 Which city is the capital of Japan?

3 The soprano singer who has her picture on the $100 note is Dame Nellie who?

4 How many millimetres are there in one metre?

5 In which sense organ would you find the three smallest bones in the human body?

6 Which musical instrument has 88 keys?

7 Which company made the 747 Jumbo Jet?

8 Which famous spread made from yeast was first made in Melbourne in 1922?

9 What word means both a type of metamorphic rock and a small spherical toy?

10 The Australian state heads of government are called what?

Can you find 10 between the pictures? Afterwards, maybe you’d like to colour it in.

Drawing by Eliza Ransome

jokes & Riddles

How much do dead batteries cost? Nothing. They’re free of charge.

Oh darling, say something soft and sweet. "Marshmallow."

He had to see his doctor in the morning for a blood test so he stayed up all night studying for it.

New books at the library: 'Sinking Ships' by Mandy Lifeboats 'Horror stories for chickens' by Barbie Q. Time 'Healthy teeth for dogs' by Nora Bone 'Japanese insects' by Ms Quito

Darren, I think your dog really likes me. He hasn’t taken his eyes off me all night.

That’s because you’re eating off his plate. Doctor, doctor, I feel like a bell. Well, take these pills and if they don’t work give me a ring.

What do you call a dinosaur in high heels? My feet are saurus.

Time to get drawing, kids!

The National Water Week poster competition is back with entries for this year’s prizes now open.

Primary, kindergarten and early learning students are invited to design a poster on the theme ‘United by Water’, which highlights the important role water plays in bringing individuals and communities together.

Posters can use any art material, medium or technology – from crayons to computer-generated imagery.

This month’s layout team. These students from Gisborne Primary’s Writers’ Club did the initial layout of this month's edition. They like to write for a variety of reasons, such as making a point, educating people on something, telling a story and reporting on events. From left (back): Izzy, Chelsea, Bonnie, and (front) Harvey, Ethan and Bradley.

Last year’s poster competition winners.

Greater Western Water will judge the winners of our region, which will battle it out at the state level, so it’s time to get drawing.

Last year, Greater Western Water received more than 1000 entries from 21 schools in the broader region.

Students can win a voucher of up to $100 for themselves or $500 for their school to spend on a sustainability

project. There are categories for each age range, from prep to Grade 6. Entries close on 1 September. Learn more at www.gww.com. au/about/community/national-waterweek.

I only know 25 letters of the alphabet — I just don't know y.

School leaders series

Gisborne Primary School has many capable leaders

Continuing his series on school leadership groups, Bryan Power finds out what's happening at Gisborne Primary

Adele, Ryder, Zach and Felicity are the confident, enthusiastic and articulate captains of this vibrant school community.

Adele explained that towards the end of 2022 almost all of the grade 5s prepared and made speeches about why they should be selected to become the 2023 school leaders.

“At the final assembly of the year our names were read out and we were presented with our captains’ badges. We were so proud,” she said.

Ryder said, “We are role models for the school’s five values: Caring, Responsibility, Respect, Resilience and Personal Best.”

Zach and Felicity added that there were lots of other student leaders – more than 32 in all. Other leaders represented Arts, Sustainability, Sports, Library, Italian, Canteen, Healthy achievement and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics).

“We run the Friday afternoon assemblies," they explained.

"Each Wednesday we and the other leaders meet with Mrs Hunter and Ms Emmerson to plan the assemblies where we write reports, make awards and work on our whole school projects such as sports carnivals, Art

Club, chess competitions and music concerts.”

“Our school is also a Professional Learning Community (PLC) Link School for the North Western Victoria Region. We have principals and teachers from lots of other schools who come to learn about what we are doing. We are part of the team who greet the visitors and explain what is being achieved at Gisborne Primary. The visitors tell us that we are good ambassadors for our school.”

“Student involvement and leadership are a big thing at our school – right down as far as the preps - and we have gotten a lot out of being able to play our roles as school captains.”

Celebrating NAIDOC Week at

GPS

On 14 July, a man named Will from the First Nations-led organisation Yarn Bark came to our school to teach us about Aboriginal cultures and what life was like for Indigenous people.

First of all, Will did an Acknowledgement of Country in a different language. Then he told us a few things about smoking ceremonies and how they are used for healing and spiritual renewal.

A bit later, we all got into groups and learnt how to make fires with sticks. Luckily, no one set anything in the gym on fire!

After that, Will played the didgeridoo and it was really cool. Will asked what it sounded like, and a few people thought it sounded like a rooster, a frog or even a bird.

On our way out, we all got to feel a football made out of possum skin and it felt nice and unusual at the same time.

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For Sale from $480000 View as advertised or by appointment

Free information session and display home tour at 176 Station Rd, New Gisborne, VIC, 3438Tea, Coffee and Light Refreshments provided Thursday 10th August at 12PM & Weds13th September at 12PM. Warrina

Josie F, Year 4 Writers’ Club

2023 GPS captains: Zach, Ryder, Felicity and Adele.

Year 3 students attempt to make fire.

Willowbank goes under water

The Willowbank prep classes attended their first ever school excursion on Thursday 20 July, visiting Melbourne Aquarium. For many students this was also their first-time riding on a bus and the excitement levels were through the roof.

Our students experienced a guided tour in which they were able to explore and learn about various sea life habitats which linked to our Term 2 STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) unit.

The penguin enclosure was a big hit and the students

particularly loved the exhibits that allowed them to touch the sea creatures.

We can’t wait for our next excursion.

Group activities keep everyone warm at Holy Cross

Winter in the Macedon Ranges might bring chilly days and early darkness, but our vibrant school community never fails to keep the spirit high with exciting activities. As term 2 came to a close, we filled our school grounds with colour and enthusiasm by organising a miniOlympics event.

The children, all dressed in their House colours, came together supporting and cheering one another in every event. The opening ceremony, complete with a torch, marked the beginning of this wonderful celebration. Our year 6 children showed exceptional leadership as they guided their teams through each rotation, displaying maturity and care for our youngest participants, ensuring everyone had fun.

We have also had the pleasure of welcoming our local kinder friends to our school. The little ones arrived warmly dressed in coats and beanies, and they embarked on an adventure in our Outdoor Education

spaces. They met our friendly chickens and sheep, planted seedlings to take back to their kinder, and even crafted bird feeders.

We cherish these moments when we can connect with our neighbouring kindergartens and aid in the transition of the children to primary school. It’s lovely to see the camaraderie between the children of different ages, fostering a sense of belonging and support within our wider community.

Even during the coldest months, our school remains a place of excitement, warmth, and growth. We believe in nurturing not only academic knowledge but also the bonds that tie us together as a strong and caring community. We look forward to more such events and col

laborations in the future, spreading joy and creating last

ing memories for our children and their families.

– Brett Sinnett

Jimmy and Violette – and jellyfish galore.

Addison checks out a starfish.

Leighton and Gracelyn meet some penguins.

Submitted by Kellie McDonald Michael Buskes shows great concentration.

No-power hour brings new energy to St Brigid’s Primary

The senior students and staff members of St Brigid’s ran an Earth Hour on 14 July to raise awareness about South Africa which has no power for three hours each day.

The sustainability committee consisted of Erin Bran, Nolan Bacon, Tex Lang and Mason Popovic, who spent weeks in preparation for Earth Hour. We researched the benefits of having a day where we set an hour aside to save our planet.

These benefits include reducing power use in our school, building relationships with a variety of students and getting out in the sun and fresh air and enjoying nature.

The activities on offer included bike riding, footy, soccer, netball, running, dodgeball, dog walking, adventure playground and gardening.

All around everyone loved it and had a fabulous time. We spent this time connecting with nature and other students and staff we might not normally have many interactions with.

This was a really special day to us and we hope to continue with these days in the future. A massive thank you to Emma Barker and all of her hard work that went into preparing this day, and also to the teachers who ran a variety of activities.

CAPTAIN'S RAP

with Harreson Watts

The end of July saw several evenings around subject selection for our Senior School students, as well as students moving into their choice of electives at year 9. The subject expo provided a unique insight into the lives of the students who have experienced the selection process and are currently undertaking the various subjects the school offers. It also highlighted the different pathways that can be undertaken through your final years of schooling.

The Gisborne Secondary Art Show was also held last month, with students able to showcase their varying skills across the different forms of art. We saw drawings, paintings, digital art, as well as performances, showcasing the virtuosity of students at our college.

Our Dance and Drama captains have been hard at work putting the final pieces together for the 'Freaky Friday' production, with our opening night on 4 August. There will be several shows between the fourth and 13th of this month, where the talent and determination of the students will be showcased to the community. I encourage you to buy any lastminute tickets if you haven’t already, as it’s looking to be an amazing show this year.

Some students are lucky enough to also be taking the journey up to Mt Hotham this month to spend a week in the snow. The annual ski camp is a great way for students to learn and develop their skills on the slopes with a choice of snowboarding or skiing, or refine and perfect what they have already learnt from experienced instructors. Having been on this camp in 2021, I can certainly say it is a rewarding and extremely enjoyable experience, fostering lifelong memories and helping students find a new love for a sport. Have fun, everyone!

As we rapidly accelerate towards the end of the school year, the year 12s remain hard at work with their studies and are starting to place their VTAC applications for any pathway they desire. This is both exciting and daunting for those involved. It is great to see so much happening in term three, and I look forward to keeping you all informed as the year closes.

Harreson Watts

Nolan Bacon, Erin Brawn and Tex Lang

S Brigid's Catholic Learning Community

Teacher Chek Stevens makes Patrick Watson work for the footy.

Grace Phegan leads the gardening group to victory in the biggest leaf pile.

Anakin Van De Velde and Tahlia Thompson show the younger ones how it’s done on the running track.

Vet Talk Vet Talk With local vet Dr Caitlin Horwood Winter weigh-in for the 'Fat Cat'

It is difficult to get motivated to exercise when the winter months have us hunkering down and hibernating in front of a cosy open fireplace. Indoor-dwelling cats are no different, requiring on average a third fewer calories than their caterwauling outdoor counterparts.

Indoor cats tend to be more sedentary, have lower energy expenditure, and are less likely to need to use energy for self-preservation, maintaining their body heat, or personal comfort.

They often have food available “on tap” and don’t have to stalk or sing for their supper.

We can help prevent our oscitant indoor pussycats from succumbing to

an outcome of inevitable obesity. Use scheduled playtime as a way to encourage cats to increase their movement and

burn those excess calories. Toys are much more attractive to cats if you can make them resemble prey like a mouse, get them moving on mobile or retractable strings, provide laser lights for cats to chase, or use self-perpetuating movement toys they can tap and pounce and bound after.

Even a couple of minutes, twice a day, is a good start to exercise. Feed only the amount they need, not what they think they want. Boredom is often translated into overeating, so playtime is really important here.

Food-dispensing puzzles can be used to give cats an activity to earn their daily fare, and a healthy feline will soon replace our fat cat for a long and happy future.

Fun indoor activities for you and your dog

Macedon Ranges

Obedience Dog Club's July new members' induction was a cold, but not wet, welcome to our newest members.

Winter is here but that does not mean you can’t have fun with your four-legged friend. Here are some fun indoor activities to keep you both engaged.

Teach your dog a new trick – There are plenty of YouTube clips/websites to give you ideas for new tricks to teach, from rolling over and playing dead to dog dancing.

Teach your god the ‘Cup Game’ –Just as you see in the movies or on the streets in cities, dogs love this game. You just need three cups and something yummy they can eat. Place a treat under one cup and let them sniff it out. Once mastered you can start to shuffle them around.

Happy Garden Club committee members

serve soup at the club’s mid-winter lunch. When taking the photo, Bernhard asked them to say “soup!”

Souped up garden club a hit in wet winter

Hello to all enthusiastic gardeners in the Macedon Ranges. I apologise for the dearth of news from the Gisborne Garden Club, largely due to my absence overseas and interstate. I can, however, report that the Cairns Botanical Gardens are in spectacular form at this time. But, back to our garden club and the most recent events.

We had a successful meeting in a garden on Mt Macedon in June, followed by our equally successful mid-winter lunch at the Masonic Hall, Gisborne, in July.

Around 40 members took part in what turned out to be a very social event with much vocal interaction over steaming cups of soup provided by the generous members of the garden club committee. This is an annual club event at a time when the weather is inclement, gardens are often dormant and a warm soup is most welcome. Long-time club member Kerry gave a short speech on the history of the club on the occasion of its 35th birthday, which we celebrated with tea, coffee and an enormous birthday cake.

With the approach of spring and warmer weather, we hope to become more active, visiting wonderful gardens in our district again. If this, or the social company of like-minded people, appeals to you, you are most welcome to join us as a guest on our next club outing.

The Gisborne Garden Club meets once a month on the second Wednesday of the month between 1 and 3pm. For more information on where, when and how, contact me, Bernhard Sucher, on 0424 038 474.

Create an indoor obstacle course – pillows, a hula hoop, chairs and a blanket/sheet are all you need. Be creative and let your imagination take you away.

Play with bubbles – most dogs love to play with bubbles. Just make sure they are child-friendly and non-toxic.

Give your doggo a massage – We know how good a massage can be so treat your furry friend to one. It’s easy to learn and you can find tutorials online.

Play hide and seek – There are two ways you can do this: hiding your dog’s favorite snack or hiding their favorite toy; and it’s as easy as using a pile of blankets or hiding spots in one room or around the house.

So, keep yourself and your doggo warm, dry, and entertained in your own home this winter.

Visit our website, www.macedonrangesdogclub.org.au, our Facebook page or email info@macedonrangesdogclub.org.au and we will contact you.

Take care, stay safe... a dog is family.

Carol Instructor/Treasurer MRODC

Felicia’s cat “Fatcat”.

1st Gisborne Scout Group news

The past month has been another busy one for 1st Gisborne Scouts. The Joeys have been learning about the four elements of matter this year, and this term is all about the element of fire. On the first night back after the school holidays, they learnt about fire safety and had fun practising the ‘Stop, Drop and Roll’ safety technique.

In the coming weeks the Joeys will be preparing for a ‘survival sleep over’ at the Scout hall where there will be some toasting of marshmallows over the campfire and practising some songs in preparation for our concert at The Oaks nursing home at the end of the year.

On the last meeting before the school holidays, 1st Gisborne Cubs had a challenge to touch the roof of the Scout hall by only standing on top of a milk crate tower that they build as they climb. Some cubs made it whilst others fell off! Don’t worry, all cubs were safe as climbing ropes and harnesses were used. This activity was a bit scary, but the cubs loved it and challenged themselves to climb higher and higher.

Over the past month the Scouts went on a 12km day hike in the Blackwood area, where they had to cook their lunch over a camp stove. They also attended an end of term District Bowling Laser-tag night at Watergardens with 90 other Scouts and spent a night constructing camp gadgets using spars in the hall.

The Venturers had a fun-filled term 2, including rock climbing and roller skating. They finished the term attending the Gang Show, which is an annual youth musical presented by the Scouts and Guides of Melbourne. The shows give Scouts and Guides an opportunity to develop their performance skills in a professional theatrical environment and are always lots of fun for both the cast and audience.

If you are interested in joining Scouts, either as a Leader or a Scout, please email us at info@1stgisborne. com.au for more information.

Carolyn Goode (Assistant Joey Leader)

The latest from Gisborne Guides

Gisborne Girl Guides have resumed after two weeks off for the school holidays.

This term we will be completing both our Girl badge and Guiding badge. The girls have been investigating Guiding as a world member organisation and learning skills such as being in a Colour party (carrying the flags), using a compass, and tying knots. Each patrol also took on the challenge of planning a skit based on the Guide law and promise to present to the other patrols. This was a very entertaining activity.

This term many of the girls will be learning camping skills in preparation for a Stradbroke camp that requires the group to organise themselves without an adult directing. This involves setting up tents and a campsite and cooking their own meals.

If you are aged seven to 12 and would like to try Guiding, phone Deb on 0409 542 619 for details. We currently have 19 girls listed with our unit so would be very interested to hear from any female 18 or older who would like to be involved as a support leader so that we can offer this experience to even more girls.

Reiltin,

New Gisborne (Church of Christ) Scouts

We are sending nine Cub Scouts and five leaders to the Cuboree in September with much excitement about this massive Cub Scout camp over five days and four nights, held every three years at the Gilwell Park camp near Gembrook. Our Cub Scouts were excited recently to welcome Aussie, who has just come up from our Joey Mob. The Joeys have been working hard making cards to send along with a care package to the nearby Warrina Aged Care facility.

Deb Fleming

Guides meet on Thursday nights between 5 and 6:30pm in the Daly Reserve hall.

The Scouts are working in the Scout Hut, carrying out maintenance, planning equipment storage and moving in the trailer. Our task now is to fit out the hut so it can be used fully for weeknight meetings. We are now raising funds to complete the services connections to the hut. All donations welcome and tax-free. Opening ceremonies will be in November.

A big achievement is the award of the Wood Badge to Assistant Group Leader Cathy. The Wood Badge program operates across Australia and in most countries for the training and development of all Scouting leaders. Our next big group event is our annual snow camp at Mt Baw Baw. Fingers crossed for lots of snow! This wonderful camp is open to our wider Scout families as well as the youth members and leaders.

We meet on Wednesdays, 6.30-8pm, and Venturers meet on Fridays. Contact Group Leader Russell Barker on 0400 297 025 or russell@jeem.com.au to learn more.

Submitted by John Frearson

Probus Club visits historic Bendigo villa

The Gisborne Probus Club travelled to Bendigo by bus to visit the historic private residence Fortuna in July.

The house was first built in 1857 by Christopher Ballerstedt and further developed by its second owner George Lansell from 1871. The property sits on what was the ‘180 Mine’ of the New Chum Gold Reef and still has the original quartz-crushing battery building.

The property is on 7.5 hectares and has botanical-style gardens featuring an ornamental lake, Roman bath and Pompeii fountain. Lansell undertook major extensions to the villa which included elaborate ceilings, a grand cedar and blackwood staircase and extensive acid-etched glasswork in the conservatory which can be seen in the photo. What a fabulous historic property we were able to explore and almost on our doorstep.

We are looking to employ a ‘morning tea’ person to undertake the catering at our monthly meetings. For further information you can contact our president, Michael O’Brien, on 0427 762 757.

The Probus Club of Gisborne meets on the first Thursday of the month in the Gisborne Community Centre Hall (old Senior Citizens Room) at 10am. You are welcome to join us at our next meeting will be on 3 August.

Submitted by Dianne Egan

One of the scenes from this year’s Gang Show, 'The Cry of the Forest: A Right Royal Ruckus of Humour, Revenge and Reconnections'.

Tayla and Alice set up an obstacle course to challenge the girls.

Joey Scouts

Lauren, James, Aoife and Maddie drawing cards for Warrina Aged Care home.

Probus members in the Conservatory of Fortuna Villa, Bendigo.

Bushwalkers find much to excite in walks and Maldon

The saying goes that there is no weather too bad to go walking in – just unsuitable clothing. Weather conditions are often a challenge for the club, but keen walkers are not deterred.

A 13km walk at Tunnel Point Track in the Lerderderg State Park proved a challenge for the 11 walkers with wet weather and a few more hills than expected. All was forgiven as the leader, Mark, provided a yummy afternoon tea at the conclusion.

Third time was lucky for a walk around the Cherokee/Lions Head area. This time walkers battled muddy conditions but were rewarded with a visit to misty Sanatorium Lake to enjoy lunch with the local kookaburras along with many other delights in the local bush. Cleaning the boots was a job for another day.

On a sunny winter’s day, the highlight of a meander around Maldon, Australia’s 'First Notable Town', was a visit to the local station for a prearranged tour of the vintage train visiting from Castlemaine. One of our members, Keith, a train volunteer, shared many interesting insights and tidbits of these trains of yesteryear. The interior of the old carriages revived memories for some and delight for all. Maldon has so much to offer, and the morning was spent exploring old goldmining sites close to the town with numerous ruins to excite feelings of the past. Historic buildings were visited around the town in the afternoon.

For details about the Gisborne Bushwalking Club, please contact Margot on 0438 260 792 or Gail on 0419 374 603. Our website is www.gisbornebwc. org.au. Janeen Edward

Hello from the Ramblers

Again, the Ramblers have been fortunate with the weather on our recent walks, only one having a short shower.

Considering we are in midwinter this is great for walking, but combined with the mild temperatures, the portents are worrying for the coming summer.

We visited Blackhill Reserve near Kyneton on the most perfect day – mild, sunny and windless – for the first time since Before COVID (a new BC?).

This is a walk for most people to try. The lower track is an easy circuit of the hill, the ridge climb a little more challenging but offering great views of the surrounding country.

The walk is described separately, at left.

For details of our weekly walks, why not join our mailing list? There is no cost and details are emailed out each Wednesday.

Charles (gisramblers@gmail.com)

Distance: varies, can be up to seven kilometres.

Level –

Lower circuit: easy Ridge track: medium

This is a great scenic walk. No special footwear is required, average runners are fine, hiking poles recommended only for safety on the ridge track.

Getting there

From Gisborne, drive up the Calder Highway taking the turn off (C326) to Heathcote. Turn right after 7km into Ennis Road. The reserve is about 700m along with a parking area near the entrance.

Walk directions

At the entrance, there is information on the reserve tracks and they are well marked along the route. My preference is to complete the full lower circuit first, before attempting the ridge track.

Highlights of the reserve are the granite boulders and the views from the ridge line.

A download of the Ramblers’ 7km route map is available on request.

CARING FOR THE PLANET

Eliza Ransome

Water is an essential part of life, every living thing relies on it. Saving water can have many positive effects.

Saving water saves energy.

Treating and transporting water along with heating it up uses a lot of energy. This means your bills go up as well. Saving water cuts back on your energy costs.

Eliza Ransome

Saving household water leaves more water during droughts, bushfires and other emergencies. An individual saving water could possibly save lives. The average Australian uses around 100,000 litres of water annually. For a family of five that equals 500,000 litres a year. Imagine what cutting back on water could do.

Saving water also helps animals. It ensures rivers and lakes do not run dry which means the ecosystem of the animals living in these waterways is preserved.

Saving water also helps to reduce pollution in our oceans. Reduced water use means less excess and waste water will flow into our oceans – which can affect our aquatic animals and their habitat.

You can save water by having shorter showers, turning off the tap while cleaning teeth, checking for water leaks, using the hose carefully, filling up the kettle only as much as you need, and trying to fill up your dishwasher.

If we save water, we can help improve so many more things, and it can also help you save money on your bills. I hope you have learned something and can maybe try to save a bit of water.

Blackhill Reserve base circuit.

Blackhill Reserve ridge track.

Bushwalkers on a vintage train in Maldon.

The Cherokee walk.

WALK #23 Blackhill Reserve

Gisborne SES welcomes new chief and thanks past

Victoria State Emergency Service Gisborne Unit welcomed Ross Evans as their new Unit Controller in July. Ross succeeds Mike Bagnall who led the unit for nearly six years, during which time the membership doubled. At the beginning of his tenure, Mike had a volunteer crew of 35 volunteers. Today, and nearly seven years on, the headcount sits at 70, with a further 20 waiting to join.

Mike Bagnall

Mike’s successful approach to recruitment and retention was informed by the wide range of reasons that people join the service. New volunteers may be enticed by the prospect of finding a new social circle, gaining nationally accredited skills, or even a renewed sense of their own identity.

For Mike, having recently moved to Gisborne from the city, he wanted an identity outside of his family. Once a member of VICSES, he gained skills in sector and divisional command, ran a flood response across a large area, and had the chance to lead an emergency service, which had been a major life goal.

As unit leader, Mike felt it was vital for new members to feel like there was a place for them, and that they were needed. This open culture had long been a feature of the unit, which Mike highlighted during recruitment campaigns.

During Mike’s tenure, the unit used its social media presence to showcase the training and skills it could provide to potential new members, and publicly celebrate their diverse ages and backgrounds. In a recent intake, the unit welcomed members aged 17 to 75 years old.

To support new members, the senior ranks of VICSES Gisborne Unit contain a wealth of knowledge, with a combined total of 135 years of diligent service given by just eight currently serving members. Notably, Ross Sapwell – a veteran of the Ash Wednesday fires of 1983 – has been a VICSES volunteer for 40 years.

UC Ross Evans

New Unit Controller Ross Evans is taking a long-term view of the needs of the area, and of the volunteers. Planning, fundraising and lobbying for a new building to accommodate a larger and growing workforce, to support an even larger number of volunteers to respond to an increased need for their services.

In the short-term, Ross plans to add a fifth vehicle to the unit’s fleet, building on the unit’s capacity to respond to large-scale emergencies throughout the Macedon Ranges.

Ross was previously responsible for public relations and fundraising at the Gisborne Unit, and his appointment draws from the depth of that leadership experience served within the unit.

He will also set up a “unit within a unit” for its youth membership. This unit would be a learning environment for that younger cohort, to nurture future leaders at the unit and beyond.

NEWS FROM DALY NATURE RESERVE

AGM formalities for the Friends of Daly Nature Reserve are short and sweet, and our guest speakers talk about local interests. There is always plenty of time to chat, enjoy light refreshments and take part in the raffle.

If you are interested in nominating to join our committee please reply to dalynaturereserve@gmail.com.

Nominations are open until the day of the meeting, Saturday 2 September, at 2pm in the Gisborne Scout Hall.

In UL Daly Nature Reserve we regularly see magpies, sulphur-crested cockatoos, as well as corellas, wattle birds, and the occasional wood duck, ibis, and king parrot.

There are many bird calls heard overhead, some still to be identified, but there is no mistaking the kookaburra’s laugh.

If your family need to identify birds which live in and around your garden, we recommend you obtain the excellent booklet produced by Macedon Ranges Shire Council, Birds of the Macedon Ranges

Despite recent weather patterns keeping us guessing, we have dodged most of the showers and continued to get plenty of work done during our monthly working bees.

Join us any second Tuesday each month at Gisborne Scout Hall, 9.30am to meet our friendly team.

Enquiries dalynaturereserve@gmail.com.

Friends of Daly Nature Reserve

New VICSES Gisborne Unit Controller Ross Evans is inducted by Senior Assistant Chief Officer Sharon Unthank and Chief Officer, Operations, Tim Wiebusch. Picture: VICSES

Former Unit Controller Mike Bagnall at the induction ceremony. Picture: VICSES.

King Parrots are often seen around the Daly Nature Reserve area.

SPORT IN PICTURES

A reserve Gisborne v Kangaroo Flat – 20 July.

On a misty day, a Gisborne Rookies player gets the ball away from Sunbury in the U13 football on 23 July.

A contest in the Rookies v Sunbury game on 16 July.

U14 girls’ Gisborne v Pascoe Vale – 2 July.

 A clean catch in the A Grade Gisborne v Castlemaine netball game on 8 July.

B Grade netball, Diggers Rest v Macedon –15 July.

Close action in C Grade Macedon v Riddell –8 July.

U15 Saints v Macedon – 15 July.

U13 Macedon v Lancefield – 20 July.

Giants get the ball in a wet U13 netball game against the Rookies on 23 July.

Giants v Lancefield – 16 July.

B Grade Diggers Rest v Macedon – 15 July

All photographs by Chris Fleming

Gisborne kicks the ball before a Castlemaine tackle in the Seniors game on 8 July.

An unpredictable moment in the senior Gisborne v Kangaroo Flat match on 20 July.

Reserves Diggers Rest v Macedon – 15 July.

U19 Gisborne v Kangaroo Flat – 20 July.

Gisborne kicks the ball in the U16 game v Aberfeldie on 2 July.

It was back to the days of mudwrestle football in the U15 Macedon v Melton game on 9 July.

Seniors Diggers Rest v Macedon –15 July.

Gisborne Rookies’ Girls’ football coach Danyel Waters and assistant coach Jo Chandler – 2 July.

Rucks in the air in the Seniors Diggers Rest v Macedon game on 15 July.

AROUND THE GROUNDS

Who might be the next Tiger Woods?

The Gisborne Golf Club is committed to introducing young budding golfers to the art of hitting a little white ball around our pristine course while the kangaroos and ducks look on in amusement.

And, with the installation of the new driving range, these new fantastic coaching facilities allow our professional coaches to assist junior golfers of all abilities to develop the necessary skills to play on the course.

The Junior Squads are broken into two age groups: the ‘Joeys’ for six-tonine-year-olds and the ‘Kangas’ for children over 10 years to ensure that everyone has a great opportunity to learn and improve their golf skills during fun, active and inclusive junior sessions.

The term 3 junior clinics have already commenced in July; however, we will be running another program in term 4, so get in early and contact the Pro Shop to

Pickleball is coming to Macedon

reserve your little budding golfer’s spot. Who knows, maybe the next Tiger Woods will be a Gisborne local?

Dom Hogan

Superstars at South Gisborne Tennis Club

Even in the winter chill, nothing can dampen the spirits of our future tennis superstars. Over three exhilarating days during the July school holidays, we had over 100 enthusiastic participants joining in the tennis fun at South Gisborne Tennis Club.

Speaking of superstars, 10-year-old South Gisborne member Moser Pretorius recently competed in national tournaments and achieved remarkable success, reaching career-best results and rankings.

This young prodigy was a semi-finalist in the 12/U singles category and made it to the finals in the 12/U boys doubles, which was an Australian ranking event. Moser’s dedication, curiosity and growth mindset have played a tremendous role in his development.

When asked about his successful tournament run, Moser humbly replied,

“It’s great to see the hard work paying off in tournaments. I am going to continue working hard and seeing where it takes me.”

I have been coaching Moser since he was five years old, and he has an incredible mindset and shows up to every lesson wanting to learn and get better.

When I first met him, he said he wanted to be a professional tennis player.

He was very clear on what he wanted, and he knows that to get there it takes years of dedication, hard work, resilience and patience. He is prepared to do what it takes. He lives and breathes tennis. I’m extremely grateful to be a part of his journey.

If you were designing the perfect sport, it would be easy to learn, inexpensive to play and a lot of fun for all ages and abilities… welcome to Pickleball.

Pickleball is a paddle game combining elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis which you can experience in our local stadium on a badminton court.

Come and Try

Two ‘Come and Try’ sessions are available on Saturday 19 August from 2pm to 4pm and Monday 21 August from 6.30pm to 8pm at the Tony Clarke Reserve stadium on Waterfalls Road, Macedon.

Free Introduction and on-court coaching from OZ Pickleball Victoria with all equipment supplied.

This event is organised by the Macedon Ranges Badminton Club. For further information or to register interest, contact David Aitken on 0419 589 425 or Ian Strachan on 0402 401 397.

Mario Matejcek

Well done Moser! Your determination and positive attitude are an inspiration to us all.

New membership year begins at Mt Macedon Golf Club

The past month has been a busy one for the club with the new membership and sponsorship year commencing. We are immensely grateful to our local business partners and to the new and returning members who continue to support ‘Our Hidden Treasure on the Mount’.

Despite the expected mountain winter weather that forces the umbrellas up and the shorts to be left in the drawer, the competitions have been consistently well supported.

Major events over the course of the

month have been the Monthly Medal taken out by President Matt Willis with a nett 66. The midweek gentlemen’s July Mug o’ the Month was a tight contest which required a countback to establish Isaac Golden as winner from Peter Semmens.

The Winter 4BBB Matchplay qualifier resulted in eight pairings making it through to the knock-out format which will continue into the coming months.

Daily winners on countback were the

Ciesielski/Dawe combination from the Dream Team pairing of Ward/Flannery.

We are excited for the forthcoming special session with Chris at Drummond Golf Niddrie who has offered our lady members a two-hour swing analysis in their simulators.

Those current lady members who have participated in the ‘Ladies Get Into Golf@MMGC’ sessions over the past two years need to register their interest with program co-ordinator Bruce Fraser.

Walrus

Proudly sponsored by Rob Mitchell Federal Member for McEwen 1300 701 966

Pickleball racquet and ball.

Practising on the new driving range

Intrepid croquet players can’t be stopped

Some members of the Macedon Ranges Croquet Club at Dixon Field are not daunted by rain, hail or icy

Although the club has a season break over winter several members continue to come and play whenever possible albeit rugged up in jackets, scarves, beanies and gloves.

The annual season finished in May with the AGM and lunch for all the members. The new season begins in September. Last winter heavy consistent rain made play impossible without damaging the courts. So far this year we have been able to have social games which will continue until such time as the courts are too wet.

The game is loved by all who play. It is full of strategies and skill. An amazing way to exercise and have fun with great people. If you would like to know more about the club, please call president Noeline on 0493 463 357.

Lyn Robinson

Petanque Club continues winning streak in Golden Boule competition

Mt Macedon Petanque Club has continued on its winning streak, being victors in all four rounds of the Golden Boule so far.

The final round of the inter-club event is scheduled for 5 August when Mt Macedon will play at to Ballarat. The competition allows participants to play in a friendly environment. Play is of a high standard and goodwill is shown between all the clubs.

Following the games, teams sometimes join for lunch at a local eatery which facilitates networking and allows players to get to know opposition club members better. Our club is happy to receive enquiries from members of the public interested in seeing what the game is all about. Petanque can be played by any age group and any playing ability. Feel free to come along to one of our playdays.

Wednesday playdays are held every week from 2-5pm at our grounds behind the Ampol Service Station in Gisborne. Saturday playdays run from 10am-1pm on the second and fourth Saturdays.

For enquiries please go to our website, mtmacedonpetanque.org and for updates visit our Facebook page.

Alison Kinghorn

Macedon Cats women make history – again

The Macedon Cats Senior Women’s team continues to make history, earning themselves a spot in the first women’s grand final in the Riddell District Football Netball League after a convincing win over Melton Bloods in the preliminary final on 29 July.

Chuffed skipper Tamara Collins (front row, far right) said, “It’s so exciting to be a part of the inaugural women’s comp, and to make the grand final has exceeded all of our expectations”.

Gisborne Rookies play with pride

On Saturday 22 July and Sunday 23 July the Gisborne Rookies girls and Gisborne senior football teams celebrated Pride Round. Competing teams wore different types of uniform to show their support and the importance of inclusion in our community.

Before the U12 girls’ game, our coach spoke to the players about the importance of diversity. These words are what resonated with us the most. “Some of us are tall and strong, others are short and fast. We all have different levels of skills, but this is what makes us a team.”

The junior girls wore blue socks with a rainbow stripe on top, other teams wore special football jumpers to show their support. It was great to see all the teams coming together and celebrating difference and inclusion as part of pride round.

By Quynn K, Maggie H and Raven G

Members of Mt Macedon and Pyrenees Petanque Clubs after the games. Croquet on an icy court for the hardy.

Rookies U12 girls show their special socks for Pride Round on July 23.

Rookies U12 girls’ team.

Muddy grounds have clubs searching for alternative venues

Drainage issues at Dixon Field and Sankey Reserve are creating issues for Gisborne soccer and football clubs to train and play.

Gisborne Soccer Club

Gisborne Soccer Club says it faces significant challenges about its main pitch, noting a senior soccer match at Dixon Field in July was delayed due to referee concerns over the playing surface and player safety.

Club president and former Socceroo, Carl Valeri, said the field had become prone to waterlogging and excessive mud accumulation, even with minimal rainfall, raising concerns about player safety and the club’s future.

He noted that the pitch’s condition had been deteriorating over the past five years and had now reached its worst state.

“Playing on such an unsafe surface poses serious risks and potential injuries,” he said.

With a growing number of members and a thriving community, the club is worried about its capacity to accommodate new players. Carl said the current season witnessed the presence of four under-8 teams, but the ongoing pitch issues may hinder the club from supporting such growth.

“We may have to turn players away next season; we simply don’t have enough safe areas to train,” he said. “Dixon Field is by far the worst pitch in the Macedon Ranges… It’s becoming a real headache, and I’m worried someone will get seriously injured.”

To cope with the situation, the club has had to rent alternative pitches for their games.

Carl said discussions with the council had shown some progress, but the issue remained unresolved. If no solution is found, the club might need to use funds reserved for coaching and culture programs to rent safe training and playing space in future.

Gisborne Soccer Club is hopeful that ongoing efforts with the council will lead to a successful resolution.

Ensuring a safe and well-maintained pitch will enable the club to continue flourishing alongside the expanding community.

Gisborne Rookies Junior Football Netball Club

A similar situation has been an issue across town for Gisborne Rookies Junior Football Netball Club.

Club president Jodie Bannan said over the past few years come mid-May the club has had to stop or limit training sessions at Sankey Reserve due to ground conditions which was a big jug-

gle and struggle for the committee to try and find dry, suitable venues within the shire.

With help from Council, a grant from Gisborne Bendigo Bank, club funds and support from Star Access Hire, this year the Gisborne Rookies have been able to put some temporary lighting out at Bullengarook Recreation Reserve.

This has enabled players to continue to train throughout the season as well as enabled the club to fit its growing number of teams on an oval space, but the solution is far from ideal.

Gisborne Rookies Football Netball Club hopes a solution to the drainage issues at Sankey Reserve and ideally permanent lighting at Bullengarook Recreation Reserve will be implemented soon to support growing junior football in the district.

The completion of the two new ovals at the New Gisborne Sports Precinct will provide some but not total relief as the new facility will be the home ground of the growing Gisborne Giants Football Netball Club and serve the whole Macedon Ranges.

Corinne Shaddock

Rookies train under temporary lights at Bullengarook Recreation Reserve.

Gisborne Soccer Club players are unhappy with a soggy Dixon Field.

One journey to an all-electric home

Kate* recently retired early from a demanding, professional career. For many years prior to that, she had cared for infirm relatives. Early retirement meant that she did not have as much in her superannuation fund as she would have liked, so she turned her mind to future proofing her expenses, particularly those involved in keeping her house comfortable all year round.

Kate had already draught-proofed her 1980s home, with its four external doors, and double-glazed windows, and had filled in the many gaps in ceiling insulation, as a 5% gap in ceiling insulation can lead to a 50% heat loss.

Using the State Government website www.compare.energy.vic.gov.au she not only found a cheaper provider but also received a Power Saving Bonus of $250.

The previous owner had put 1 kW of solar panels on the roof and thanks to a premium feed-in tariff she was receiving credits on her electricity bills for most of the year. But this tariff was going to end in November 2024. Now that she was at home during the day and using the daytime solar electricity, it was clear that, even before then, there would be no daytime solar credits to offset her nighttime power consumption.

To forestall this situation, she invested in a 6.6kW solar panel array and a 14kW/h battery to increase daytime solar genera-

Crossword

ACROSS

3. Athol Guy was one of the four members of this popular group.

7. Waterproof bedding that when rolled up can carry personal belongings.

8. The capital of South Korea.

10. Who wrote the play “All’s well that ends well”?

14. Norway, Sweden and Denmark make up this European region.

15. Changi Prison was located in this city.

16. In which country is Loch Ness?

DOWN

1. The district around Mildura.

2. A group of fish is known as a ________.

3. Australia’s ninth Prime Minister.

4. Victorian town noted for its famous foot race.

5. Bendigo was formerly known by this name.

6. Famous site located on Salisbury Plain in the UK.

7. Star sign between 22 November and 21 December.

tion and use it well into the evening.

She also replaced her gas cooktop with a more efficient induction one.

Kate’s home has a gas-boosted solar hot water system. Fortunately, the stainless-steel hot water tank has a port that can accommodate a timed electric element to take care of winter boosting, so that she can now dispense with the continuous flow gas booster.

Now all that remains is to find a home heating solution. In addition to the heated towel rail and overhead heat lamps in the bathroom, Kate recently installed a reverse cycle air-conditioner in the sitting room to see if this would be enough to warm her through the winter. So far so good, and if it is not quite comfortable enough, one more reverse cycle will probably allow her to eliminate gas altogether.

If you would like to explore how you can move towards an all-electric home or business, request an obligation-free consultation from one of the energy experts selected by volunteers from the Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group’s GO Renewable Energy Project (www.mrsg.org. au/greg) .

*Name and some personal details changed to maintain anonymity.

Relay For Life calling for new volunteers

CAN YOU HELP?

The chairman of the LancefieldMacedon Ranges Relay for Life, Ken Wiltshire, has thanked all those who contributed to the success of the Relay in March, which raised over $54,000 for Cancer Council Victoria. And is asking for help.

Since the Relay started at Lancefield 21 years ago, said Ken, the event had raised over $1.7m, a colossal achievement of which all the teams and those who have supported the event should be immensely proud.

“The next Relay is in March 2024. Three of our valued committee members have indicated they are standing down this year. Their many years of service are much appreciated.

to support the Relay,” he continued.

However, to successfully continue the event the committee – now effectively only Ken and one other person –needs further assistance.

“We have particular needs in three areas,” he said.

“The first is for someone with appropriate skills to handle publicity and social media. The second is for someone to handle OHS [occupational heath and safety] and like issues. The third is for enthusiastic people with good local connections who can encourage and support new teams to join our Relay.

Submitted by Stephen Pepper

“The Lancefield Relay has a strong team of on-the-day volunteers who help set up the event, provide entertainment and help pack up. We are confident that those marvellous people will continue

12. In 1972 a pop festival was held here.

13. In which country did bullfighting originate?

Answers page 39

1 Which chemical element has the symbol K?

2 Which New York building briefly held the record for tallest building when it opened in 1930?

3 Which singer was known as “The Velvet Fog”?

4 Which planet has a moon called Miranda?

5 Which Disney character made his first appearance in 1934?

6 In financial terms what does FTSE stand for?

7 What was the city of Darwin’s name before it was officially changed in 1911?

8 Which Australian appeared on the front of the old two dollar note?

9 How many complete symphonies did Beethoven write?

“If readers know someone who could fill any of these roles, please encourage them to email me at wilthome_adsl@ hotkey.net.au.” 8.

10 Which fruit grows on a Mangifera indica tree?

Answers page 39

Words starting with the letter ‘S’

In what country is St Moritz? 9. Arachnophobia is a fear of what? 11. The name Australia is dervied from the Latin word “australis” which means?

Keen participants in last year’s Relay.

Questions compiled by the late Graeme Millar and his daughter Heather.

CHURCHES

Uniting Church Men’s Group to visit VEMI

The Men’s Group at the Mount Macedon Uniting Church are visiting the Victorian Emergency Management Institute in Mount Macedon for this month’s meeting on Tuesday 1 August.

The group, started 17 years ago by longtime congregation member Cliff Talbot (now residing in Bendigo), with half a dozen men from the church, has grown into an ecumenical place of fellowship.

We now have 15 members from Catholic, Church of Christ as well as Uniting churches from Gisborne, Riddells Creek and Macedon/Mount Macedon, as well as a couple now further living afield who come from time to time.

Our meetings are very informal, with a short devotion followed by a presenta-

Members of the Men’s Group enjoy a cuppa.

tion or discussion by a rostered speaker. Topics are extremely diverse, often about careers, trips, hobbies or major events, such as the development of military and civil nuclear power. Vigorous discussion usually ensues.Occasionally guest speakers are invited or visits are made to interesting places. Morning tea, supposedly prepared by the rostered hosts, is a highlight as well as the discussion and fellowship.

Hitting a pothole

Until recently avoiding stray kangaroos was the major risk on our roads.

Now it’s hitting a pothole. We have become agile in the art of swerving gently that allows us to avoid the known ones. Then comes the clunk: a new one has ambushed the car.

Many people in our community are hitting the potholes which result from rising everything — prices of renting, the mortgage, food, power. And like the hole in the road, the economic pothole can be hard to see in advance.

St Brigid’s Parish Gisborne – incorporating St Ambrose Riddells Creek and St Patrick’s Macedon

Normal weekend services

Saturday, 6pm St Brigid’s Gisborne

Sunday, 8am St Ambrose Riddells Creek

Sunday, 9:30am St Patrick’s Macedon

Sunday, 11am St Brigid’s Gisborne

Everyone is welcome!

St Vincent de Paul

A new chapter of SVDP has recently been established in Gisborne. If you are in need of assistance, whether it be by way of food vouchers or perhaps furniture, please reach out 1800 305 330.

Office hours: Tuesday and Thursday 9am to 5pm

Enquiries to gisborne@cam.org.au or 5428 2591.

Website: www.pol.org.au/gisborne

The Men’s Group meets on the first Tuesday monthly at 10am, excluding November (Melbourne Cup Day) and January. Our December meeting is usually a Christmas lunch at a local venue.

Any men interested in joining us, whether associated with a church or not, would be most welcome. Please contact John Cross (5420 7528) or myself.

Neil Tweddle 5426 2045

The labyrinthine ways of words

A word that continues to astound me is astonishing as it is appropriate – and if you sense alliteration being attempted, your attentive skills are very much attuned.

Amazing!

A maze is a puzzle designed to be mesmerising, confusing, and challenging.

The garden maze is meant to be a journey to the puzzle’s centre.

Obstacles, traditionally tall hedge growth, are placed in various parts of the passage. There is a way in and, equally, a way out.

Each path is explored until we are ready to move on to the next stage of the journey.

A traditional

maze is like a labyrinth in design. There is a difference between a labyrinth and a maze.

A labyrinth has a distinct path to the centre with no obstacles. A labyrinth walk is meant to create a sense of rhythm and meditation. Labyrinths come in many varied designs.

The labyrinth at the Church of the Resurrection is a traditional ‘Seven’ circle; the Uniting Church, Riddells Creek labyrinth, is smaller.

Whatever size they are, they are meant to be a reminder of life itself.

The path of life is seldom straight but can be puzzling or an adventure.

Whatever life is, it is truly amazing.

Rev’d Dennis Webster

Many organisations and individuals in Gisborne and surrounds are doing what they can to offer support to those who have been shaken by recent problems. Each of the churches does more than offer ‘thoughts and prayers’ — they run projects and programs, offering food, other needed items and providing a listening ear.

During the COVID years, we recited the mantra ‘We’re all in this together.’ That must be the case now. Individual circumstances differ of course, but our community thrives when we work together to mend the holes in our social, economic and spiritual fabric.

Getting together is part of the mending process. Sunday mornings from 9.30am sees the gathering of the Uniting congregation and a warm welcome for anyone who wishes to join us. And on Tuesday 8 August, from 10-12, our Morning Matinee features the sadly warm film Brassed Off. Looking further ahead, on the afternoon of Monday 16 October, ladies of all ages, shapes and sizes will again be able to check out Australian made and reasonably priced clothes at our fashion parade. Each of these gatherings includes tea, very good coffee and delicious food.

Janet Wood

ANGLICAN CHURCH

The labyrinth at the Church of the Resurrection the year it was constructed (2018).

Potholes come in many guises.

100 YEARS AGO

AUGUST 1923

Upper Macedon news – At a cost of over £160, considerable alterations and improvements have recently been made to the School Hall and Vestry of the Presbyterian Church, Upper Macedon. The hall has been re-floored, painted and put in first-class repair, and an enlarged vestry has been erected. The work has been carried out by Mr. Frank Bellhouse to the entire satisfaction of the committee, and next Saturday at 3.00pm, the formal re-opening of the hall is to take place.

Our well-known townsmen, Messrs. Jackson and H. Scott, intend erecting a sawmill on the Mount. We wish them good luck in their enterprise as it will fill a long felt want.

Tread lightly – Gisborne’s flimsy court –Patching the floor of the local Courthouse verandah with kerosene cases is surely the limit in Government economy, and that is what is being done here. Decayed and dilapidated, the floor is a danger to all compelled to pass over it. The building generally is sadly in need of repairs. Although the Shire Council has promised £60 towards renovations, the Public Works Department still slumbers.

– Gisborne Gazette, August 17, 1923

Oaklands Hounds at Gisborne. The Oakland Hounds met at New Gisborne on Saturday, and had a most enjoyable run of about six and a half miles to Riddell. The weather and the ground were perfect, and about 33 fences were negotiated. A large assemblage of people witnessed the run, and the roadway was lined with vehicles. – The Argus, August 20, 1923

“Glorious” Experience – The fine sunny weekend saw delegates to the Pan-Pacific Congress scattered to the four points of the compass, in search of knowledge in direct touch with nature. The trip taken by the geologists and the geographical section was described as glorious. On Saturday morning 50 scientists left the Haymarket in 10 motor-cars for Macedon. They inspected interesting geological formations near the Clyde Girls’ Grammar School [today’s Braemar College] and thence proceeded to ... Hanging Rock, which – to a geologist – is a volcanic plug. The travelers ... were impressed with the variety both of geology and of scenery.

– The Argus, August 20, 1923

Railway engineer dies in Bendigo – The death occurred shortly before midnight of Mr. G.W. Knight, 92 years of age. Mr Knight studied architecture and engineering under his father in England, and came to Victoria when he was a young man. He was the engineer of the Saltwater-Williamstown railway. He also engineered the Sunbury section of the Bendigo-Melbourne railway, the Jackson Creek viaduct being a portion of the work carried out under his direction. – The Herald, 4 August 1923

WHAT'S ON WHAT ELSE IS ON

MEETINGS

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

ADULT RIDING CLUB (Bullengarook) 2nd Saturday Rec Reserve

AMATEUR RADIO CLUB 3rd Saturday 10am Woodend RSL. www.mrarc.org.au

ANGLING CLUB 2nd Wed 8pm Railway Hotel Macedon

BOTANIC GARDENS working bee every Thurs 9.30am-10.30am

BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP 1st & 3rd Tues 10.30am Gisborne Golf Club

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

BUSHWALKING CLUB Various locations secretary@gisbornebwc.org.au

CANCER SUPPORT GROUP last Wed of month Macedon Ranges Health, Neal Street

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 6pm St Brigid’s Hall; gisborne@junseikan.com.au

MASONIC LODGE 2nd Thurs 7pm Masonic Hall Aitken St

MASTERS AFL Wed 6.30pm Sankey Reserve 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 Dromkeen, Riddells Ck

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) 1st & 3rd Tues 7pm Telegraph Hotel (email gisbornerotary@gmail.com for confirmation of venue

ROTARY (Macedon Ranges) 1st Tuesday, 6.30 dinner, 7.45 meeting Baringo Food & Wine rotarymacedonranges@gmail.com

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

RSL 1st Mon 1.30pm Gis Golf Club 5428 2233

SENIOR CITS (Macedon) Tues 11am Tony Clarke Res

SPINNERS & FIBRE GROUP Wed 12 noon Rec Reserve Bullengarook

SUPPORT AFTER SUICIDE 2nd Mon each month, even if public holiday, 7-8.30pm Newham Mechanics Inst (1292 Rochford Rd)

TABLE TENNIS Wed 7.30pm Tony Clarke Res, Macedon

THUNDER SWIMMING CLUB 2nd Sat 5pm Gisborne Aquatic Centre

TOY LIBRARY Every Tues 9.30-10.30am; Sat 9.30-11am 71 Robertson St

ULYSSES GROUP 3rd Tues 6pm Sunbury 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

DATE

crossword answers

3. Scullin

4. Stawell

5. Sandhurst

6. Stonehenge

7. Sagittarius

8. Switzerland

9. Spiders

11. Southern

12. Sunbury

13. Spain

QUIZ answers

Baringo Film Club

Screening