December 11, 2015 Merry Christmas!
Edition 18
2 • BACCHUS MARSH SCOOP, December 11, 2015
Rayner
BUY YOURSELF A HOUSE FOR CHRISTMAS! Hurry, Get in quick and get the ultimate Christmas Present! Our properties are flying out the door with only 2 weeks to go! Maybe it’s time someone put you first.
Bacchus Marsh 5366 3600 Ballan
5368 1057
www.raynerrealestate.com.au
Rayner We put you first
BACCHUS MARSH SCOOP, December 11, 2015 • 3
Snag yourself a game of golf THE next Adam Scott or Josh Younger could be teeing off at the Bacchus Marsh Golf Club soon thanks to new equipment designed for juniors.
With the assistance of a grant from Vic Health and Moorabool Shire Council Community Grant Program, Bacchus Marsh Golf Club has invested in new SNAG golf equipment. The equipment includes plastic clubs, velcro multi-coloured balls and targets that make it very simple for all participants to have fun while learning the skills required to master the game. Golf Pro Phil O’Bryan said:“The program and the equipment is specifically designed to teach all aspects of the game, including the physical, mental and emotional. It is simple and fun to use and has been enthusiastically embraced by the all of the families at our junior clinics.” “We plan to use the equipment for our young participants and all age groups starting out. “If you get the fundamentals right then it is an easy transition to using the smaller golf ball and real golf clubs,” Phil said. “We will be offering the program to all schools in the area, older age groups and disability services.” For more information contact Phil O’Bryan at the Pro Shop on 5367 1410.
Scoop Christmas closure dates The Bacchus Marsh Scoop will be closed from Monday, December 14 and re-opens on Monday, December 28. We‛d like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a wonderful Christmas and a happy and safe holiday season.
Photo supplied
Bacchus Marsh Scoop is a fortnightly publication serving Bacchus Marsh and surrounding districts. ABN: 39 790 396 099 For all your editorial needs, contact: Publisher/editor: Renee Robinson, 03 5368 2870 / 0459 022 364
For all your advertising needs, contact: Sales: Sheree Mayfosh, 0411 016 669
Email: bacchusmarshscoop@gmail.com Web editions: issuu.com/bacchusmarshscoop Facebook: facebook.com/bacchusmarshscoop Front cover: Siblings Daniel, Charli-Anne, Abigail, Dakota and Brandi count down the days until Christmas. Absent is Jaxon. Photo: Renee Robinson Printed by Fairfax Media Limited
Wilsons Home Timber and Hardware MON-FRI: 7.30am - 5.30pm SATURDAY: 8am - 4pm SUNDAY: 9am - 4pm 1 South Maddingley Rd, Bacchus Marsh. TELEPHONE: (03) 5367 2089
• NEW LOOK PAINT RANGE • NEW EXPANDED TIMBER RANGE • BETTER CAR PARKING • EXPANDED AUTO RANGE • NEW OUTDOOR FURNITURE RANGE
GO WHERE THE TRADIES GO
4 • BACCHUS MARSH SCOOP, December 11, 2015
Left: The courthouse during the first week of repairs. Right: Rick Biden in front of the new-look building. Photos by Renee Robinson
Courthouse has appeal AFTER undergoing extensive rehabilitation, the historical Ballan Courthouse has been sentenced to community service. Permanently.
The 142-year-old courthouse was officially re-opened to the public on December 3 following five months of repairs and restoration. Ballan Shire Historical Society secretary Rick Biden said the society had moved archival records into the courthouse in 1990, however the building deteriorated and was closed to the public in the early 2000s. He said after the Moorabool Shire decided not to renew their contract as committee of management of the courthouse in 2007, the historical society got in touch with Working Heritage (formerly known as MINT Inc.), whose charter was to restore heritage buildings on crown land. “They came and did a feasibility study and decided to take on the project to restore the courthouse,” Rick said. “We hadn’t been able to use the building for three and-a-half years for safety reasons.” He said the courthouse was on the Working Heritage project list for a few years because other historical buildings across Victoria that were in worse condition, or affected by flooding, were given priority. Work on the courthouse finally commenced on July 21 this year. “The whole idea was to repair and restore the primary building for community use, with us as the primary tenant,” Rick said. The sequence of work involved repairs to the brickwork, underpinning the footings, rendering and painting. Rick said a new front portico was also built, based on original plans from the public records office of Victoria. “The judges chambers will be used for books and storage and the clerk’s office will be used as an office. The new paint colours were chosen by the architect and are all heritage colours.” He said the next stage was to construct a new building out the back of the courthouse for archival storage, a toilet, kitchenette and work rooms. “We’re hoping this will be finished within the next 18 months.” The Ballan Shire Historical Society will reclaim the space and move its documents back into the courthouse in January. The society currently has 80 members. For more information about the historical society and the courthouse, email Rick at bshsinc@hotmail.com.au
Taste the difference
MEET THE GROWER
BACCHUS MARSH SCOOP, December 11, 2015 • 5
BRAELANDS Beef is so good, owner Lou Mawhinney’s customers include five former vegetarians and one former vegan. KATE SHARKEY* meets the fifth generation Myrniong farmer who is raising cattle using ethical processes and a 100 per cent pasture fed diet with no added hormones. Lou Mawhinney’s bloodlines are just as impressive as her cattle’s. Her family, the Lidgetts, began farming land in Myrniong in 1878. In the 1950s the family started running Hereford cattle, and 60 years later they have retained these great genetics in the cow herd. “I love my cattle. We have genetics that trace back to my grandfather’s herd and they are of a very high quality,” Lou said. “You don’t just breed cattle for their meat quality but you breed for temperament and other character traits too. This helps with ensuring we have cattle that are easier to handle and respond to our low stress environment. “We only sell what we breed. We’re not into buying store cattle to supplement our own. We don’t want to produce huge quantities. We like to focus on the quality of the product. All our beef and lamb is bred on our farm and is absolutely hormone free, no antibiotics, grass fed and natural.” When the traits that Lou values and upholds were consistently receiving poor prices at the market, she and her husband Aaron Mawhinney knew things had to change. Then one day friends came for dinner and when they wouldn’t stop talking about how amazing the meat was Lou knew the time for change had arrived. In 2007 they established Braelands Beef and Lamb and Lou was ready to share her high quality, home-grown meat with others outside of just family and friends. Lou and Aaron farm 1000 acres in the rolling hills at Myrniong and Lou is first to acknowledge starting up the business was a bit of a mess. Managing the livestock was easy but managing people was at times challenging. Just the logistics of everything from the butcher being available to pack orders at the right time to coordinating the extensive delivery run was hectic and a big learning curve. However, Lou’s customers appreciated the extra care she puts in and have remained loyal as the business has grown. Lou said Braelands produce was processed by Westside Meats at Bacchus Marsh and Aus Tendercuts, a family-run butcher at Melton, packed the end product to suit weekly orders. Before the beef is processed it is ‘dry aged’ for two weeks then put in cryovac bags ready for the customer. Lou said the longer the meat can rest the better it tastes. Once vacuum sealed in a cryovac bag most cuts of meat could sit in the fridge ‘wet-ageing’ for up to six weeks, or be frozen. Lou provides a fact sheet with each customer order which details how to store the meat and for how long. Recipes are even on hand. Lou offers a weekly home delivery service in a fully accredited prime safe refrigerated van. Braelands services customers throughout the region and delivers as far away as the Mornington Peninsula. Lou personally delivered her product up until her three-year-old daughter Penny was born and then hired a driver – Terry – from Guildford to do the deliveries. Braelands customers respect the attention to detail and the high regard Lou has for her livestock. She upholds all the principles of organic growing and is very happy to answer questions on how she raises and manages her livestock. Braelands has an exciting year ahead with the launch of a speciality line of Braelands Beef and Lamb going into the independent butcher ‘Meat at the Marsh’ in Bacchus Marsh. “I’m excited as it offers customers another choice for buying our product. Not everyone wants to buy in bulk like our online service offers.” And, whilst Braelands is a premium product, prices are competitive.
Lou Mawhinney with her children Arthur (8 months) and Penny (3)
Lou hopes to steadily grow the business and has ideas of one day bringing together other local livestock producers who farm in the same holistic manner as Braelands. Lou said her vision was to bring liked-minded growers together to offer a specialty home-grown ‘Pentland’ branded product. Lou said customers bought her product for a number of reasons including the wish to buy a local sustainable resource, health benefits and having a connection with the farmer. “I often get asked lots of questions as to how I raise my livestock and I enjoy my conversations with customers. It’s all about education and giving the consumer the opportunity to ask the question, learn about what the producer does and gain a greater awareness of the effort, commitment and passion we put in. Yes it’s about us making a living but it’s also about running a sustainable business into the future that’s right here on our doorstep.” Lou graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Science from Dookie College, Melbourne University, in 2003 and spent the following six years developing her skills working in the beef industry around Australia, including stations, feedlots and commercial and stud operations. In 2009 Lou and Aaron moved to the farm, and married the following year, catering for their wedding with their own meat. “Mum wasn’t so sure about me taking over the farm, but I love it. Farming is very challenging on all levels physically, emotionally and financially however, if it was easy, everybody would be doing it.” In a world where so much is taken for granted the Mawhinney’s know all too well that nothing comes easy. Whilst the views across the Pentland Hills are quite breathtaking, one can be assured at the pace the Mawhinney’s are working, it’s more likely the cattle grazing quietly off in the distance are the ones making the most of the view. For more information visit www.braelandsbeef.com.au *Kate Sharkey is establishing a Moorabool Food Producers Network.
6 • BACCHUS MARSH SCOOP, December 11, 2015
BACCHUS MARSH SCOOP, December 11, 2015 • 7
Songbird sings for Christmas CHESTNUTS will be roasting on an open fire and people will have themselves a merry little Christmas when soprano Victoria Hewson takes to the stage.
Her repertoire at the Moorabool Light Orchestra’s ‘Sounds of Christmas’ event on December 20 will include the two Christmas songs. Students at Bacchus Marsh Grammar won’t be surprised to hear their voice teacher singing, however it will be the first time Victoria has performed to the wider Bacchus Marsh public. “I started singing when I was eight-years-old,” Victoria said. “My career highlight would have to be singing the flower duet from Lakme with Marina Prior at the Opera in the Alps.” Victoria has been a teacher at Grammar for the past three years and said she always tells her students that there is no wrong way of doing it. “I love to inspire young students, they just love it. Singing is something they’re not scared to do at a young age, but as they get older they become more self-conscious.” She said she was inspired herself by Susanne Johnston from Opera Australia and she was looking forward to singing two duets with Roger Lemke at Sounds of Christmas. “My favourite song I’m performing would have to be ‘Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,’” she said. Sounds of Christmas will be directed and conducted by Barry Wilkins OAM and led by Robert Wrzaszcz.The concert will be held at Bacchus Marsh Public Hall, Main Street, Bacchus Marsh at 2pm on Sunday, December 20. General admission is $15 and tickets are available at the door. Victoria Hewson. Photo by Renee Robinson
BACCHUS MARSH
COMMUNITY COLLEGE
RTO 5064
VI LL AG E C H I C
2016 ACCREDITED COURSES
Basic English and Numeracy
Expressions of interest now being taken
This course is designed for people needing assistance to increase their reading, writing and basic math skills for everyday use. This course includes basic money handling skills, reading and understanding of basic documents and writing skills to complete forms and other documents. Our trainer is experienced in working with people who have dyslexia and other learning barriers
TAE40110 Certificate IV in Training and Assessment CHC30212 Certificate III Aged Care CHC30312 Certificate III Home & Community Care
December special:
CHC30113 Certificate III Early Childhood Education & Care SFL20110 Certificate II in Floristry (Assistant) AHC20410 Certificate II Horticulture 22236VIC Certificate I in General Education for Adults
30% off all Kardashian and Tony Bianco bags
Now located at 8 Church Street, Bacchus Marsh
0499 265 857 Thursday & Friday, 10am - 5pm, Saturday 9am - 12pm All other times by appointment
Contact the office if you would like any further information on Nationally Recognised Courses Email: info@thelaurels.org.au Phone: 5367 1061
TRAINING and ASSESMENT TAELLN411 Address adult language, literacy & numeracy skills—Unit ONLY Wed16th March & Wed 23rd March, 2016 2 Sessions / 6pm—9pm Acknowledgements: Nationally Recognised Training at the Bacchus Marsh Community College is delivered with funding made available by the Victorian & Commonwealth Governments
SHORT COURSES
Start your own business Basic office & Administration skills iPad Basics iPad—Beyond Basics—NEW Computers ‘Next Step” - intermediate level Excel—Beginners, Intermediate & Advanced levels RSA, Food Hygiene, Food Safety Supervisor First Aid, CPR, Anaphylaxis Management MYOB, Bookkeeping
On behalf of all the staff and trainers at The Laurels, we would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Safe and Happy New Year. See you all in 2016!
For information on these and other courses or to enrol, please call 53671061 or visit our website: www.thelaurels.org.au *People with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
8 • BACCHUS MARSH SCOOP, December 11, 2015
Irrigating Avenue WESTERN Water staff and contractors marked the start of the Avenue of Honour water main replacement by meeting with the Bacchus Marsh RSL. “We felt a get-together with the members of the Bacchus Marsh RSL was an important part of getting this project under way,” Western Water’s general manager of customer and community relations, Graham Holt, said. “The informal meeting is part of our commitment to honour this unique place and make sure everyone involved in the project understands its importance to the community.” Western Water hosted a morning tea with members of the RSL, the project’s manager and construction workers on December 7. The project will replace the Avenue’s existing water main, which is old and needing frequent repairs for bursts. Mr Hold said Western Water would work closely with an arborist throughout the project to ensure the Avenue’s trees were protected. The new water main will be larger to cater for the needs of more than 70 customers, including some of Bacchus Marsh’s popular food producers. The project will mean traffic lanes will need to be closed as the main is replaced within the roadway. It is expected to take around four months. “We are sorry for the inconvenience, but are asking local residents to bear with us while we complete this important project,” Mr Holt said. For more information visit westernwater.com.au or call 1300 650 422.
PAY NOTHING TILL 2016*
BACCHUS MARSH Shop 72 Bennett Street Bacchus Marsh 3340 * Based on a 12 or 18 month membership 1/2 price joining fee $49 and $59 fob key required at time of sign up. Must be over 18 Years of age. Offer ends December 31st 2015
BACCHUS MARSH SCOOP, December 11, 2015 • 9
Nurturing people and plants PLANTS helped save Heico Weidl’s life, and now he’s using them to help others. A difficult childhood led to almost a decade of crime and drug addiction, however in his late 20s Heico discovered God, plants and a purpose, in that order. The Bacchus Marsh father of six said: “The reason I set up Plantinspirations Online Garden Plants Nursery was to see hope and change brought into the lives of those who often were unable to break free from the generationally devastating cycles that rip through their lives. “Having myself come from a severely dysfunctional and multiple addicted background, which continued until I was in my late 20s, gave me the heart and desire to want to help others walk into the hope, freedom and change that I continue to grow into.” Heico’s family immigrated from Germany to Australia in 1969, however ghosts of World War 2 haunted his parents, particularly his father. “He wasn’t able to show love and was particularly hard on my older brothers. My oldest brother suicided when he was 16 and there was much that happened over the years that tore apart the hearts and lives of all of us children.” Heico said he dreamed of becoming a vet, but an intolerable homelife forced him to leave home and school after year 11. “I lived wild on and off the streets, often in court and ended up in jail by 19 for not paying the fines for the crimes I kept committing. I took up drugs at 20 and was a drugged out hippy for about eight years. It was in this time that I had my first daughter and realised that I couldn’t even be responsible for her. I was messed up, living in a garden shed, once again on the run from the police (this time for drug offences), and one day in pure despair at the man I had become I said to God ‘if you’re real prove yourself ’. I had lost the will to live and keep trying to be the good man I so desperately wanted to be. The next day I found a bible in hard rubbish and began to read it. I went to a church and a guy there taught me forgiveness of sin.” While still battling his own demons, Heico began working on the streets of Melbourne helping the homeless. “We rented a café on Swanston Street from 7pm to 11pm and give out cakes, food and free coffees. It helped get people off the street and we were changing people’s lives through building friendships.” He married his second wife when he was 33 and in 2000 they moved the family to Bacchus Marsh. They introduced a similar service to the homeless soon after. “The Baptist Church in Melton had a food van and they offered another one to the Baptist church here. I heard about it
Heico Weido. Photo by Renee Robinson
and I asked the leadership group if I could have a go at this and they said yes. We parked it in the front of the SES and gave out hot dogs, food, tea and coffee. I recruited a lot of people from throughout the community and the churches across the town. It was desperately needed and we usually had a lot of young people coming to see us. Over time they came to trust us and we learnt a lot about them and their struggles. It was about loving people, not about religion.” Heico said the work he was doing to help others wasn’t feeding his growing family and he began to propagate plants and succulents – something he’d always loved to do – and sold them online and at local markets. “As my family grew I struggled to care for them as well as to change the hearts of others. I realised that I needed a strong and viable income stream to be effective and able to fulfill my vision. I set up Generations Family Trust and started the company called Plantinspirations Pty Ltd. That supported my family and gave me the freedom to work with those broken by and within society – the work I wanted to do. The succulent business took off during the drought and I continued giving away 10 per cent of what I had.” Committed to helping others, Heico and his wife sold their succulent business and moved the family to Uganda to work for International First Aid to build an internet café so that its income stream could be used to help support a local orphanage. “It was wonderful to see the impact what a little effort from us could do in
this culture,” Heico said. However his wife contracted a serious illness and they had to return to Australia sooner than expected. In 2011 they moved the family to Siberia for a year to work with broken families affected by alcohol abuse, however it came at a price and their relationship unravelled. Three months ago Heico took over the lease from the Bacchus Marsh Seedling Farm at Holts Lane, Darley, and now runs both the online and retail nursery sectors. He said his mission now was to finish his counselling degree and raise enough money through his nursery to set up a unique long term rehabilitation program for men to help break the generational cycles of domestic, physical and substance abuses. “My vision is to break the cycle by making such a positive impact on broken lives now, that this change will continue down the generations of those we are trying to help. From personal experience I have found that to have this kind of positive impact on people’s lives takes many years of love and care. It’s that unconditional love that inspires you to change. Addictions are just a symptom. You need to go back into their childhoods and change attachment issues and heal the traumas. The healing and growth that took me nearly 25 years to find can be brought about in five to eight years if given the right circumstances. “It is amazing to look back over the years at the amount of love, care, help and guidance that other people poured into my broken life to help me heal and grow. I’m passing it forward.”
10 • BACCHUS MARSH SCOOP, December 11, 2015
E FRE y entr
Food for sale
ES
BACCHUS MARSH SCOOP, December 11, 2015 • 11
The Scoop’s ultimate holiday guide! SO SCHOOL’S been over for a few seconds - and the kids are already bored..? There’s no reason to sit around this season. Our community is full of fun stuff to do!
Saturday 12 December ** 11am-3pm - Santa will be at Bacchus Marsh Village for professional photos with your child every Friday and Saturday until Christmas. ** The Bacchus Marsh (Grant St) and Ballan (Mill Park) pools are open 1-4pm on weekends during December ** 2pm – Traditional mass with Melbourne Catholic Archbishop Denis Hart at the Ta’ Pinu hilltop shrine, Flanagans Dve, Merrimu. 5367 700 Sunday 13 December ** 5pm - Carols by Candlelight (see ad p10) – Bacchus Marsh Community Hall, Main St. Proceeds to service clubs and The Neighbours Place food bank. Carols from 7pm. Showbags and battery-operated candles available. No wax candles please. Presented by the Combined Churches of Bacchus Marsh. ** 8pm - Bungaree Carols by Candlelight – 30 performers from Sing Australia will give their lungs a workout at St John’s Anglican Church, Wallace Rd Monday 14 December ** Playgroups - If you’re involved in one of the 13 Bacchus Marsh Uniting Church community, take a photo with costumes – including angels, kings and shepherds – at the kid-sized nativity scene in the playground. ** The Bacchus Marsh (Grant St) and Ballan (Mill Park) outdoor pools are open 3-6pm weekdays during December Friday 18 December ** The Neighbours Place, 77 Main St Bacchus Marsh, closes until January 11. Open half-days during January. 5367 6222 ** 4pm - FreeZA Pool Party, Grant St, Bacchus Marsh. DJ and movie $5 Saturday 19 December ** 11am-3pm - Santa will be at Bacchus Marsh Village for professional photos with your child every Friday and Saturday until Christmas. Order photos on the spot. Sunday 20 December ** 2pm - Moorabool Light Orchestra (see ad p6), Bacchus Marsh Community Hall. Sounds of Christmas featuring baritone Roger Lemke, $15 ** 5pm – Messy Church. Family-friendly Christmas celebration including animal nursery, crafts, carols, stories and dinner. Holy Trinity Anglican Church, next to Bacchus Marsh McDonalds. Nina 5367 5362 ** 7pm - Carols service at Pentland Hills Uniting Church, Old Western Hwy, Myrniong Thursday 24 December CHRISTMAS EVE ** 12.30pm – Libraries, the Bacchus Marsh Visitor Info Centre and Moorabool Council offices close until 4 January ** 3pm - Ballan GP clinic closes until Sunday 27 December. 5366 7999 ** 5pm – Bacchus Marsh Anglican Church, next to McDonalds ** 5pm – Morrisons Anglican Church, Tablelands Rd. 5368 2730 ** 5.30pm – Pharmasave Darley Plaza closes until Tuesday 29 December ** 6pm – Nova Pharmacy Bacchus Marsh Village closes until Boxing Day ** 7pm - Christmas Eve service with carols – BM Christian Church, 222 Main St, opp The Laurels ** 7.30pm – Carols at Ballan Anglican Church, Simpson St. 5368 2730 ** 10pm – Coles (last store) closes at Bacchus Marsh Village. Last chance to shop! Friday 25 December CHRISTMAS DAY ** 8.30am – Bungaree Anglican Church. 5368 2730 ** 9am – Bacchus Marsh Anglican, next to McDonalds ** 10.30pm – Ballan Anglican, Simpson St. 5368 2730 ** Bacchus Marsh town bus services, Sunday timetable www.bacchusmarshcoaches.com.au ** All day free travel on VLine services. Sunday timetable. ** All chemists and pools closed.
CHRISTMAS DONATIONS ** The Neighbours Place – 77 Main St, Bacchus Marsh. The food bank is in desperate need of food suitable for Christmas hampers including tinned beef/ ham, tinned fruit, custard, bottles of soft drink and gluten-free non-perishable food. As of today there is still a Christmas hamper waiting list. People with extra food donations can drop in between 9.30am and 2.30pm on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays (before December 18). 5367 6222 ** If you are unable to get to TNP during opening hours, Bacchus Marsh Anglican Church is also collecting donations until December 17. ** Target UnitingCare Christmas Appeal – Grab a tag from the tree at Target in Bacchus Marsh Village and purchase a gift card – or bring in a new unwrapped toy you have pre-purchased. ** If you cannot get to Bacchus Marsh, Ballan Playgroup (at St Johns Anglican Church) will collect gifts until 15 December. Saturday 26 December BOXING DAY ** 6am – The Village Bacchus Marsh re-opens inc Coles. ** 10am – Nova Pharmacies re-opens at Bacchus Marsh Village. ** 10am-1pm - UFS chemist Bacchus Marsh (Ballan closed). ** 10am - Anakie Fairy Park re-opens, $16 adults / $8 child, 2288 Geelong-Ballan Rd. 5284 1262 ** 1-6pm – Bacchus Marsh and Ballan pools (restricted hours) ** Bacchus Marsh Visitor Information Centre re-opens ** Bacchus Marsh, Ballan and Mt Egerton tips closed Sunday 27 December ** 9am - Garden of St Erth re-opens. Check www.diggers.com.au for garden and café opening hours over January. 189 Simmons Reef Rd, Blackwood 5368 6514 Monday 28 December ** 10am Nova Pharmacies open until 3pm ** 1-6pm – Bacchus Marsh and Ballan pools (restricted hours) ** Ballan GP Clinic and UFS chemist closed Thursday 31 December NEW YEARS EVE ** 6pm – Nova Pharmacy Bacchus Marsh Village closes until 2 January ** 6pm onwards - free travel on VLine services. Friday 1 January 2016 NEW YEARS DAY ** 10am-1pm - Bacchus Marsh Visitor Information Centre (restricted hours) ** 10am - Anakie Fairy Park opens, $16 adults / $8 child, 2288 Geelong-Ballan Rd. 5284 1262 ** 1-6pm – Bacchus Marsh and Ballan pools open (restricted hours) ** 10am-1pm - UFS chemist Bacchus Marsh. UFS Ballan, Nova Pharmacy Bacchus Marsh and Pharmasave Darley all closed ** Mick Thomas and the Roving Commission returns to the Greendale Country Pub. $30/ticket. 5368 1355 ** Ballan GP Clinic closed ** Bacchus Marsh town bus services Saturday timetable www.bacchusmarshcoaches.com.au Saturday 2 January ** Pools now open 11am-7pm every day during January ** Donegan’s Farm re-opens – Show the kids how a real farm operates. 309 Butterfactory Rd, Gordon. Call for opening hours 0418 689 448
Sunday 3 January
** 1pm - Maddingley Park Community Picnic with free sausage sizzle, BYO salads and soft drink. Bacchus Marsh Christian Church Ivan 0408 348 889 Monday 4 January ** 8.30am – Libraries and Moorabool Council offices reopen Friday 8 January ** 7pm – ‘Inside Out’ Disney drive-in fundraiser for Ballan Pony Club, Racecourse Rd. $5/head. Food available. Movie from 8.30pm. **Save this date because the next edition of Bacchus Marsh Scoop will be out and about across Bacchus Marsh!
12 • BACCHUS MARSH SCOOP, December 11, 2015 DEC
19
JARROD SHAW & SARAH WILKINSON ! ! !
Blackwood residents celebrate. Photo courtesy Mary-Anne Thomas
Waste not, want not
APPEARING:
Blackwood Hotel 8:00pm
FACEBOOK.COM/JARRODANDSARAH
AFTER a ten-year impasse, Blackwood finally has a solution to its wastewater issues.
On November 30 the Minister for Environment, Climate Change and Water, Lisa Neville, announced state government funding of $2.6 million for domestic wastewater management in Blackwood. The program will replace or upgrade faulty septic tanks identified through an audit of septic tanks in Blackwood conducted by Moorabool Shire Council. The audit found that 24 per cent had faults ranging from cracked lids to major failures. At a public meeting in September 2014
Moorabool Shire councillor Pat Toohey urged the Blackwood community to abandon a push for sewerage connection and vote for a government that would help them upgrade their septic systems. The town, and the Labor State Government, listened. The funding will also provide a support program, including planning assistance, for owners of blocks who are looking build on their land and will need to install an on-site wastewater system. Minister Neville said: “I’m glad that we have been able to deliver for the community of Blackwood and provide a solution for existing households and a way forward for those landholders who wish to build on blocks of land they own in the area.”
Specialising in: • Evaporative Cooling • Add on Refrigerated Cooling • Reverse Cycle Wall Hung Split System • Reverse Cycle Split Ducted System We come to you for all your cooling needs ARC AU03582
For free quotes call now: 1300 550 901
BACCHUS MARSH SCOOP, December 11, 2015 • 13
Town plan overlooks school A PARENT hasn’t given up hope that a secondary school will be built in Ballan. Gabrielle Fidler spoke at the last council meeting of Moorabool Shire on December 3 about Ballan’s need for a secondary school and the lack of provision for a school in council’s Ballan Structure Plan. “Great slabs of this structure plan are word-for-word identical to the draft document we first saw in April 2013,” Ms Fidler said. “I believe this item should be dealt with at a council meeting in Ballan, where the hundreds of residents who signed petitions – and took the time to have their say – can remind council again of what they said when submissions closed way back in June 2013. “That was three prime ministers ago, almost three premiers ago… and back when Fiskville was one of our main employers. “Why is this being pushed through the last council meeting of the year and with little warning? Are you trying to pull the tinsel over our eyes?” The Ballan Infrastructure Plan stated that Ballan was not at a population level that would trigger the need for a secondary school during the 15year life of the structure plan. However Ms Fidler said: “On census night in August 2011, there were 10,456 people living in the western half of Moorabool. This is the school catchment area, not the Ballan township alone.” “By not even thinking about land for a secondary school, we are robbing our children, grandchildren and countless unborn generations to come.” Councillors voted to defer a decision whether to adopt the plan and
scheduled a special meeting to be held on Thursday, December 17 at the Ballan chambers, so that the town’s residents could attend. Resident John Kowarsky has also questioned why the plan has earmarked future residential growth of Ballan to the north west of the town (western corridor) rather than south of the railway station. “The southern corridor as a future growth area was overwhelming supported by the Ballan community during the council’s own public consultation process. Moreover, it makes public amenity and commercial sense from the point of view of maximising pedestrian and cyclist access to the town’s main street, to the railway station and to the major sporting and recreation grounds,” Mr Kowarsky said. “As well, the southern corridor would have minimal impact upon the wonderful ecological values of the Werribee River and its floodplain.” He urged Ballan residents to attend the meeting and make their views known to councillors. “Arguments about the lack, and cost, of infrastructure support for the southern option are unfounded in the light of the data from a report from the council itself that Ballan has 15 plus years of residential accommodation still available within present limits,” he said. “There is no need, and definitely no rush, to allow residential expansion into outside greenfield sites such as the western corridor. There is plenty of time to develop solid plans and obtain funding to initiate the orderly development of the southern corridor.” The special meeting will commence at 6pm on Thursday, December 17 at the Ballan council chambers.
Social club deals also available
Junior Memberships for under 16s $70 Includes free coaching
Golf carts available for hire Starting Twilight Golf on Friday nights with 6 hole competition and *Junior Clinic for $10 *Meal included
Licensed Bar
Tee off
BACCHUS MARSH WEST GOLF CLUB PHONE: 5367 3492 Bacchus Marsh - Balliang Rd, Bacchus Marsh
14 • BACCHUS MARSH SCOOP, December 11, 2015
Your community page proudly sponsored by The Scoop Community diary December 12: Christmas carols in Long Forest 1pm - 5pm. Santa, BBQ, raffles, entertainment. Junction Long Forest Rd & Sundew Ave. $5 entry. December 12: Homemade & Homegrown market Anglican Church, Gisborne Rd Bacchus Marsh. 10am to 2pm. Call Brad on 0419 508 569.
•
Bacchus Marsh Scoop’s little helper ‘Halle’ wishes everyone a happy Christmas and a safe holiday season.
December 13: Choir Australia Christmas carols Traditional concert features 30 singers, soloists and musicians. St John’s Anglican Church, Bungaree, 8pm.
December 20: Moorabool Light Orchestra’s ‘Sounds of Christmas’ 2pm, Public Hall, Main St, Bacchus Marsh. Baritone Roger Lemke and December 12: Pioneer Women soprano Victoria Hewson. of Bacchus Marsh book launch Admission $15. Stanford Hill Rotunda, opposite Bacchus Marsh Caravan Park, 1pm. December 25: Santa’s coming Merry Christmas to all, and to all a December 13: Bacchus Marsh goodnight... Community Carols Arranged by combined Bacchus January 16: Music Festival Marsh churches. 5.30pm - 8.30pm, Maddingley Park, 10am - 6pm. Public Hall, Main St, Bacchus Family activities. No alcohol. Marsh. Free entry. Proceeds to support the homeless.
BACCHUS MARSH SCOOP, December 11, 2015 • 15
Coimadai firefighters honoured COIMADAI Fire Brigade celebrated its 8oth anniversary at a function held at the Court House Hotel in Bacchus Marsh on November 27. Officiating for the evening was the CFA acting chief officer Peter O’Keefe, who presented National Service Medals to Coimadai brigade captain Greg Atterbury and training officer, 3rd Lt Don Journet. The National Medal is an award by Her Majesty to fire service members, and is for diligent service for a period of 15 years. The Coimadai brigade enjoys a diverse age group of volunteers, many of whom have made significant contributions to its success over the years. Members’ skills came to the fore when it set about constructing a new engine shed to house its two tankers, Nissan ultralight and hose lay trailer in 2013. They contributed hundreds of man hours towards the project in time for an official opening on June 14, 2014. The $100,000 project was 100 per cent community funded. Former brigade captain Brad Dawson was a driving force behind the project. Currently plans are underway to refurbish the old fire station, built in the early 1970s by a former captain, George Rogers, and his brigade team. Once completed, the refurbishment will provide a community hub where local groups and organisations can gather and conduct meetings in a modern and comfortable environment. The brigade conducts a successful CFA Juniors training program throughout the year. Junior leaders Greg Balnaves and Ric Hulbert are seeking expressions of interest from boys and girls between the ages of 11 and 15 years for the program, and new members over 16 interested in becoming qualified fire fighters. For more information phone Ric on 0447 106 204.
Corner
BOOMERANG HOLIDAY RANCH Trail riding through picturesque bushland. All rides supervised by qualified staff. School Camps Single and family Group bookings
For further information ph. 53482525 Tipperary Springs Road, Daylesford 3460 www.boomerangranch.com.au
MEET THE NEW MANAGERS!
Café
Corner
Café
From left: Don Journet, Greg Atterbury and CFA acting chief officer Peter O’Keefe
BUSINESS & TRADE GUIDE
16 • BACCHUS MARSH SCOOP, December 11, 2015
Domestic Service: Installations, Alterations & Renovations Industrial & Commercial Service Installations, Maintenance, & Repairs FREE QUOTES Terry & Jason Hooper (R.E.C. 13532) P.O. Box 628 Bacchus Marsh 3340
Terry: 0417 390 793 Jason: 0429 099 980 hoopselec@gmail.com
Bacchus Marsh
Flooring Anthony & Lisa Simone
115 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh, VIC 3340 Ph: (03) 5367 8422 Fax: (03) 5367 6944
Tel: 03 5367 0110 Fax: 03 5367 1108 Mob: 0407 828 545 email: info@motorworx.com.au www.motorworx.com.au
CENTRE
214 Main Street Bacchus Marsh 3340
Email: general@bmflooring.com.au Web: bacchusmarshflooring.com.au
CAR WASH
29 HOLTS LANE, DARLEY 6AM TIL 10PM - 7 DAYS
Self serve - auto - truck/boat - dog wash - car care - vacuum Attendant on duty 8:30 - 5:30 - 7 DAYS
Western Screens
bcard_Layout 1 2/02/15 3:26 PM Page 1
LOGISTICS PTY LTD
Glenn Pluck
Andrew Clarke Wool Buyer | 0409 511 739
p: (03) 9369 7218 | f: (03) 9369 4147 105 Boundary Rd, Laverton North VIC 3026
Mob: 0413
17 Grant Street, Bacchus Marsh, VIC. 3340 info@westernscreens.com.au
066 163 ABN 42 603 705 509 ACN 162 859 047
BUSINESS & TRADE GUIDE
BACCHUS MARSH SCOOP, December 11, 2015 • 17
RI V ETTE
UPHOLSTERY NEW FURNITURE | ANTIQUES | MOTOR TRIMMING
Luke 0439 355 282
9 Park St, Bacchus Marsh, 3340
(03) 5367 7442
Maddingley Car Care Servicing & General Repairs All Makes and Models Vehicle Restoration Chris Trotter 0415 270 983 1B Millbank Street, Bacchus Marsh, 3340
Show this ad for free car wheel rotation
18 • BACCHUS MARSH SCOOP, December 11, 2015
‘MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS’
25 McPherson St, Maddingley
Kellie Pietrzkowski
Pawfect portraits Kellie Pietrzykowski creates perfect pet portraits one pencil stroke at a time. After being a mum for 15 years, Kellie decided to follow her heart and studied a Diploma of Commercial Arts (Graphic Design). “I enjoyed every aspect of it, but one of the projects was an illustration of a cat, and straight away I knew I wanted to do that. The Dean of the college saw the piece and he rang me and said I had to pursue it.” Kellie then hand drew a memorial picture of her Cavalier King Charles spaniel ‘Jimmy’. “A friend saw Jimmy on my bedroom wall and asked me to do one for them and then I did eight more drawings for other friends as my portfolio pieces. It’s been word of mouth since then.” She said her first portraits were done in gray lead and she then moved onto colour portraits. “You have to choose the right colours and blend the right colours. It’s finding the right pencils to work with too. I always use sharp pencils to get the fine detail and use short strokes for short fur and long strokes for long fur.” Kellie’s extraordinary eye for detail has captured the personalities of cherished dogs, cats, birds and even a horse. “I love the reaction from people when they see their piece. If it’s a memorial portrait people can get quite emotional. It’s all worth it just to see their reactions.” Kellie works from action or still photos and said it helped to send a good, clear photo with nice clear eyes. “I start with the eyes and work my way out.” She said a bust took 12 or more hours to complete, and if it was colour then extra time was needed to prepare and blend the colours. “I have developed my own style. It’s a natural ability that I owe to my grandma.” Kellie’s work can be seen on Facebook.com/novestudio For more information email novestudio@outlook.com or phone 0422 579 620.
‘MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS’
BACCHUS MARSH SCOOP, December 11, 2015 • 19
BACCHUS MARSH WOOL SHOP LOIS HUNT Proprietor
151 Main St Bacchus Marsh Victoria 3340 Phone: 5367 1514
Gary and Linda Pearce
What a blinder! GARY Pearce is the longest screens and blinds installer in the western suburbs.
The owner of Bacchus Marsh Screens and Blinds began learning his trade at 14-years-old from his father and has kept learning all there was to know about screens and blinds over the last 42 years. “My long-term goal was to own my own business just as my father had,” Gary said. His dream came true in 1989. “All our products are made to measure in a colour and style to suit any type of home. We take pride in making all security doors and fly screens on site at our factory showroom. Our products also include blockout and vision view Hollands, verticals, timbers and plantation shutters, Roman blinds and venetians. Shower screens, wardrobe sliding doors and fitouts completes our internal range. Then outside we have canvas, PVC and seethrough awnings, roller shutters and shade sails.” Gary and his wife Linda are the team behind Bacchus Marsh Screens and Blinds and they employ one other fitter. “We enjoy helping out with the vast variety of work we do including helping with styles and colours and take pride in watching it come together for our customers. They like that we have a great reputation and many are return customers and have recommended us to family and friends. Customers like that we are the ones doing the work from start to finish.” Bacchus Marsh Screens and Blinds services Bacchus Marsh, Ballan, Melton, Sunbury and surrounding areas as far as Ballarat, Geelong and Melbourne. Gary and Linda said if people order now before Christmas they are guaranteed to get their products early in the new year to beat the rest of the summer heat. “We maintain and service all of our products and always give great, competitive prices.” Bacchus Marsh Screens and Blinds is at 22 – 24, Unit 9 McPherson St, Maddingley. Phone 5367 49 38 or 0411 611 816.
Floral Design & Event Styling at Affordable Prices Ph: (03) 5367 5705
If it’s glass...we can tint it
Leigh Cotter Manager Factory 2, 22-24 McPherson St, Bacchus Marsh VIC 3340 ph: 5367 7977 mob: 0433 333 319 email: wwcoatings@hotmail.com
Tobacco Station Tobacco accessories & gifts
Shop 40, Bacchus Marsh Village Shopping Centre
22-24 Unit 9, McPherson St, Maddingley
Ph: 03 5367 8560
HEALTH & WELLBEING
20 • BACCHUS MARSH SCOOP, December 11, 2015
AV TOTAL ENTERTAINMENT PHONE 0423 710 163 or 9746 1116 jjjonesacdc@hotmail.com
MCs, DJs & entertainers, karaoke, party fun games
Dudley Raine - Civil Celebrant Weddings Commitment Ceremonies Renewal of Vows Naming Ceremonies Life Celebrations Funerals Mobile: 0422 628 409 Ph/Fax: 03 5367 5431 Email: DudleyRaine@gmail.com
BACCHUS MARSH
MYSTICAL ROSE BELLY DANCE
VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTRE BENNETT STREET BACCHUS MARSH
PHONE: 4367 7006
Midweek Special: 2 players with cart
$50 Bacchus Marsh-Balliang Rd Bacchus Marsh VIC 3340
Phone: (03) 5367 3492
• • • • • • •
Buy 4 lessons get the 5th one FREE Join this term and get in shape for summer or New enrolments are being taken for 2016
Belly dancing’s rhythmic undulations will energize and tone every part of your body as you flick, undulate and shimmy Burn calories and build confidence Low-impact aerobic exercise Accredited Instructor who maintains safe movement while having fun Friendly supportive environment Movements can be modified for those that are less able Weekly classes during school terms
0402 410 292 Total Indulgence All Beauty Treatments Beauty Treatments IPLAllPermanent Hair Reduction Permanent Hair Reduction GiftIPL Vouchers Available Gift Vouchers Available 152-154 Main St, Bacchus Marsh 152-154 Main St, Bacchus Marsh Cynthia - 0421 029 147
Cynthia - 0421
029 147
Find Mystical Rose Belly Dance on Facebook Burn calories, build strength & tone the fun way
ADVERTORIAL
BACCHUS MARSH SCOOP, December 11, 2015 • 21
Above and below: Chef Susie and owner Simon. Photos by Renee Robinson
The Merchant of Blackwood Simon Daniel always knew he would end up a cafe operator.
Having spent most of his life working in the industry, he left hospitality to explore several other options before realising that this really was his calling. “I always had that niggling feeling in the back of my mind that although I was enjoying what I was doing, hospitality was the place I wanted to be,” Simon said. Then he came across a freehold opportunity too good to let pass. He and his business partner – also Simon – operate the café, store and curios, The Blackwood Merchant, with a combined 25 years of experience in the field. They’ve been here for most of 2015 and the place looks and feels great. A hidden gem, housed in a century-old building in the middle of the Wombat State Forest, the Merchant has a major focus on its customers, service, and handcrafted food; oh and the views are to die for. The team’s focus is translating the business philosophy of fresh, housemade, ‘real food’ and regional produce into action. The guys are joined by chef Susie, who shares this same philosophy. “The entire team is passionate about food – slow food – and regional produce. We prepare most of our food from scratch so that when our clientele eat with us, it’s ideally one of the best meals they’ve ever had,” Simon said. Offering daily breakfasts, lunch and dinner (on Friday) the fully licensed café specialises in homemade pies, tarts, cakes and pizza (Friday nights only), expertly-prepared coffee, organic teas, and a range of vegetarian and gluten-free options. They stock a wide selection of beer, wine, cider and soft drinks, many from the region. The Blackwood Merchant has close personal relationships with its regional producers and are happy to share their related stories. “We’re just 20 minutes from Bacchus Marsh and have a big Bacchus following already. So pop in and order a great meal and enjoy a local bever-
age, whilst taking in those magnificent forest views,” Simon said. The atmosphere feels like home, where you’re welcome and know that you’re cared about. There are even a few antiques, vintage artefacts, furniture, essential grocery items, fresh baked bread, regional small goods, a small takeaway menu and a couple of local artists selling stuff here too. Take the road less travelled, visit Blackwood. The Blackwood Merchant is located at 21 Martin Street, Blackwood and is open Wednesday to Sunday between 9am and 5pm and Friday night from 6pm to lateish. Bookings are recommended. For more information, visit www.theblackwoodmerchant.com or the business’s Facebook and Instagram page.
22 • BACCHUS MARSH SCOOP, December 11, 2015
ENVIRONMENT
Preparing for a long, hot, dry summer Moorabool Environment Group’s Rose De la cruz discusses the effects of El Nino and how to save your gardens this summer WE NEED to prepare for a long, hot dry summer. The Bureau of Meteorology and the climate scientists tell us we are in the midst of another El Nino. The definition of this weather condition is: El Nino refers to the extensive warming of the central and eastern tropical Pacific that leads to a major shift in weather patterns across the Pacific … Over much of Australia, but particularly eastern Australia, El Nino events are associated with an increased probability of drier conditions. (Climate Glossary - El Nino - Bureau of Meteorology www.bom.gov.au/climate/glossary/elnino.shtml).
Where can I find copies of the Scoop? If you don’t receive it in your mailbox this fortnight, you can find copies at Foodworks, The Village (outside Aldi), Darley IGA, Lerderderg Library, Bacchus Marsh Newsagency, out front of the Bacchus Marsh Community Bank/Collins Bookstore, the Bacchus Marsh Train Station, Ballan Newsagency and Melton Library. And if all else fails, contact us directly to pick up a copy at:
bacchusmarshscoop@gmail.com
2015 has been the hottest year on record and rainfall, dams and reservoirs are low. We should expect more extremes in heat generally plus heatwaves, low rainfall, a bad fire season and a punishing time for our gardens. So we better prepare now! If you have an irrigation system check its working properly, repair moats around trees that are watered by hand to give the tree the best absorption when you give it a fortnightly soak in the evenings. Make the fruit trees your first priority when watering, put soaker hoses under a thick bed of mulch to avoid evaporation and remember a soaking every fortnight is far better than a sprinkle with a hand held hose daily. Meanwhile all eyes are on the Paris climate change conference and we wait in hope to see what the outcome will be next week. On the first day of the conference heads of states of 150 countries pledged their commitment to a legally binding outcome to take collective action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Will the international community agree to keep global warming less than two degrees to avoid more massive disruption of ecosystems and agriculture worldwide? Let’s hope the 195 countries at the conference will make some serious and effective decisions on lowering carbon emissions and therefore global temperatures. Over 50,000 people joined the rally in Melbourne last month on Friday, November 27 to send a message to our representatives at the Paris climate change conference that we want to keep global temperature rises at below 2 degrees to protect global agriculture, sea level rises and our gardens! If you would like to read more about the consequences of climate change in our country can I suggest a book by Peter Christoff (Melbourne University) titled ‘Four Degrees of Global Warming: Australia in a hot world’. Also an excellent Four Corners program on ABC TV – worth iviewing if you missed it titled The End of Coal? There are so many good news stories around the world of innovations working towards low carbon economies. Google renewable energy data in Germany, California, Iceland, India and China for examples and see what progress is being made. It makes Australia look very slow and behind the game in comparison even though we are one of the top carbon dioxide emitting countries per capita at 16.7 metric tons per person per year. (http://data.worldbank.org) We humans are an intelligent and creative species. We have moved through from cave existence to developing agriculture and then the industrial revolution fuelled by coal. Then we sped into the oil and gas age to develop our economies. We are now entering the next age – the age of renewable energy – solar, wind, geothermal, tidal and wave power can produce our electricity instead of burning the unrenewable, dirty fossil fuels. It is an exciting time and we can be hopeful that scientific knowledge combined with intelligence and the will to survive as a global community will predominate in Paris and world leaders will steer the human race towards the next and sustainable era of clean renewable energy. www.mooraboolmeg.org.au Meetings in recess until January. Happy holidays to all Scoop readers from the Moorabool Environment Group
BACCHUS MARSH SCOOP, December 11, 2015 • 23
The Last Word
The Merrimu Hour of Power with Apple FM’s Karellyn Dangar, Leading Senior Constable Yvette Brown, Santa (!), and some wonderful volunteers. Photo: Renee Robinson
I thought I’d let the wonderful Merrimu Hour of Power (as heard on Apple FM) share the last word with me today. Their beautiful hearts epitomise what Christmas and the holiday season is all about. Time flies when you’re having fun and here we are in December. I love Christmas in Australia. The heat, the beach, the BBQs and even the flies. Every time I see Santa I want to offer him a cold drink. He’s not really cut out for our conditions is he? Poor chap. This publication will shut down over Christmas and I’ll be back answering emails and phone calls on December 28. It’s time for family and a little bit (okay, a lot!) of home maintenance. We wish you all a very happy holiday season. SCOOP
Read Bacchus Marsh Scoop online @ issuu.com/bacchusmarshscoop
24 • BACCHUS MARSH SCOOP, December 11, 2015
CHRISTMAS SALE!
December 9, 2015 - January 3, 2016 20% off all stock* Gift vouchers also included in sale. * Not valid in conjunction with any other offers we may have running at the time.
www.plantinspirations.com.au Bacchus Marsh’s largest nursery
Plantinspirations Retail and Online Nursery has taken over Management of Bacchus Marsh Seedling Farms retail sector. There are now over 100,000 plants available covering a huge range of varieties and pot sizes at affordable prices including: Natives, Grasses, Fruiting, Herbs, Cottage, Hedges, Groundcovers, Succulents and more. Opening hours: Monday - Friday: 9am to 4.30pm Saturday: 9am to 2.30pm Sunday: 10am to 3pm 2c Holts Lane, Bacchus Marsh Ph: 0404 850 324