August 11, 2025 Issue 338 Words in Winter
The
Local - The Heart of the Highlands
Enjoy 45 events and over 80 ar tists over the two weekends, with local talent and visiting ar tists – emerging and established – offering literary events, performances, conversations, ar t installations and free events, storytelling, workshops and children’s programs Head to our website for full program or book into one of our festival highlights today!
www.wordsinwinter.com
Words in Winter Gala
Saturday 23 August
Hotel Bellinzona
Dinner + show $90 | Show only $45/$40
Doors open 6:30pm
Dress in literary flair for an evening with Tony Birch, Jenny Valentish & Eliza Hull, hosted by Beck Lister. Enjoy live music with Late Night Radio, karaoke and dinner.
Sunday 24 August, 4pm - 6pm Tickets $40/$35
Hotel Bellinzona
Immerse yourself in a day of literary energy at our vibrant Conversation Hub. From provocative debates about poet laureates to powerful LGBTQIA+ storytelling sessions, Hotel Bellinzona buzzes with conversations for every interest.
Refuel with ar tisan coffee and signature cocktails from Virgin Café, then continue your festival journey – workshops are just across the street at Radius Ar t, with more events up the road in Daylesford.
Marieke Hardy and Emilie Zooey Baker debut at Words In Winter with authors Nadia Mahjouri, Mo Mann Sudi, and locals Claire Sullivan & Morgan Williams, responding to ‘The Words I Wish I Said’. Izzy Rober tsOrr presents a ‘Living Eulogy’, with live music by Square Wave Bounce.
This heritage venue oozes literary charm, offering the perfect backdrop for connection and creativity. Stay for one session or settle in for the day!
Fresh from a sell-out tour, this unique event promises catharsis, tears, and joy—don’t miss out!
Book tickets now!
Better Off Said rsation Hub
Saturday 23- Sunday 24 August, 10am-4pm
Conversation tickets $15/$10
Hotel Bellinzona
Dive into a day of literary energy at Hotel Bellinzona’s Conversation Hub. From debates on poet laureates to LGBTQIA+ storytelling, there’s something for every book lover. Fuel up with Virgin Café’s ar tisan coffee and cocktails, then explore nearby workshops at Radius Ar t or events in Daylesford.
This heritage venue brims with literary charm—stay for a session or linger all day!
Book tickets now! +
Cr Hewitt asks: 'Can we sell bequeathed park?'
A Hepburn Shire Council decision to ask for community feedback on selling seven of its properties around the shire, three for affordable housing, has been overshadowed by a request that CEO Bradley Thomas also look into the possibility of selling Rea Lands Park in Raglan Street, Daylesford.
Rea Lands, now a public park and food garden, was bequeathed to the people of Daylesford by former Shire President and Councillor Betty Rea.
At the July council meeting, Cr Lesley Hewitt moved a motion saying she wanted an investigation into whether the land could be sold.
"I am aware that there are a number of projects in Daylesford, Hepburn Springs and surrounds that will require co-contributions by council and this is potentially an opportunity to get that funding. So I would like to see whether or not that's possible."
Cr Hewitt later told The Local the land had been left by Betty Rea for the community benefit of the people of Daylesford.
"Mrs Rea, it's clear from our understanding of the sort of person that she was, that community was at the heart of everything she did. And then the question is, what's community benefit? And is its current usage, a community benefit?
"It's just looking at it (and) getting more information to try to make what would be the best use of that land in line with Betty Rea's wishes, because that's important and I would be certainly respecting that."
Just two of those, and there are many more voicing their protest on social media, who would be disappointed to see the site turn into housing are Robert Burrowes and Anita McKone, pictured right.
The couple moved to the region in 2012 and, without their own garden, signed up to help out the Daylesford Community Food Gardeners a year later - an organisation given a lease for the land by the council in 2012.
"The public park as gifted by ex-mayor Betty Rea was still in its original form of a very large grassed area with a small number of large trees, including the two impressive pines, and the picnic table and seat, before the Gardeners took over development and management in 2011," Anita said.
"Patrick Jones has organised many working bees at Rea Lands involving members of the Daylesford Community Food Gardeners. Since December 2013, Robert and myself have contributed between 200 and 400 hours of voluntary labour every year until now, 2025, as well as over a thousand dollars of plants, tools, trellising and organic inputs.
"Some hundreds of dollars and many practical inputs, such as rail sleepers for edging garden beds, mulch, compost and plants, have been donated by others in the community. Permaculture founder David Holmgren gave expert advice in the early years.
"The garden now boasts over 50 more trees, three hedges, a large variety of bushes, ground covers and flowers, as well as a small vegetable plot. Many of the fruit trees are just coming into their capacity for fruiting well, including the two avocados we planted in 2015 (and nursed over the winter for the first couple of years).
"There is also a lovely native Bunya pine that is now several metres tall and will eventually grow to match the Norfolk Island pine nearby. The Bunya pine holds deep cultural, spiritual, and ecological significance for many First Nations peoples.
"One of the valued features of the garden is that it is eclectic, because we have been achieving a number of different goals – it is not only a community organic food source, but a public park where visitors come to wander and enjoy – so adequate shade, colour and overall shape of the garden beds have been of concern.
"Because it is a voluntary working organic food garden, as well as a public park, Rea Lands has a somewhat ‘wild’ look about it at times. Many people who visit the garden say that this is what they like about it.
"I see Rea Lands as a significant and successful addition to the mosaic of Daylesford gardens, that also has key environmental and food sustainability aspects and heritage value. It deserves to be retained in public hands for the ongoing benefit of the community as a whole."
Robert said depending on season and weather, people came to the park to meditate, walk their dog, pick up some gardening advice, have their kid's birthday party or even hold an Easter egg hunt.
"And it's got a couple of huge pine trees and a big gum tree and we've planted more which will take 30 years to grow. We won't be here to see it but hopefully plenty of people in the future will.
"That was the plan. That's why it's a bit disappointing. You don't plant trees to have them bulldozed down. And we thought it was generous of Betty to give it to the community and allow it to be dedicated for the community's benefit.
"It was a generous gift, and we like to think we're using it in a way that she'd be happy about. It's in her name, so that's a nice memorial to her contribution."
Words: Donna Kelly | Main image: Debora Mermadeit | Inset: Contributed
Feedback sought on surplus properties
Hepburn Shire Council has declared an intent to dispose of seven properties around the shire, with three suitable for affordable housing.
These properties have been deemed surplus to the council's needs but community engagement is required prior to deciding whether to proceed with the sale of the properties.
The seven properties are: 79A Raglan Street, Daylesford (currently housing the Good Grub Club); 26 Raglan Street, Creswick; 10 Camp Street, Clunes – “Camp Hill Site”; 1 Armstrong Street, Daylesford; 10 Semmens Avenue, Creswick; 313 Clunes Road, Creswick; and 2 Creswick Road, Clunes.
The properties at 79A Raglan Street, Daylesford, 26 Raglan Street, Creswick and 10 Camp Street, Clunes – “Camp Hill Site” will be sold as Expressions of Interest with the possibility of them being used for affordable housing.
The other four properties will be sold on the open market.
It is proposed that the proceeds of the potential sales, less the costs of disposal, will be invested in the establishment of a financial reserve to support grant cocontributions to help meet co-contribution requirements associated with external funding opportunities.
Community feedback can be provided until Friday, August 29 on Participate Hepburn.
The decision whether to proceed with the disposal of the properties will be considered at the October council meeting.
Words: Donna Kelly
Front page: Words in Winter is taking over Daylesford and The Local is proud to be a media partner for this fantastic festival. Check out the program, read about two of the participants and enjoy the poetry by Rebecca Lister at Local Lines.
Image: Kyle Barnes with thanks to Bellinzona
The Local is a registered trademark of The Local Publishing Group Pty Ltd.
The Local is a member of the Victorian Country Press Association, with editor Donna Kelly, a former director.
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The content expressed within this publication does not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of The Local Publishing Group Pty Ltd. The Local Publishing Group's editorial guidelines and complaints-handling process can be found at www.tlnews.com.au We welcome all feedback.
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The Local is a fortnightly community publication covering the Central Highlands of Victoria.
The next edition is out on Monday, August 25, 2025. or online on Sunday, August 24 at www.tlnews.com.au
Space bookings: Wednesday, August 20
Copy deadline: Thursday, August 21
Editorial deadline: Thursday, August 21
General manager: Kyle Barnes on 0416 104 283 or kyle@tlnews.com.au
Editor: Donna Kelly on 0418 576 513 or news@tlnews.com.au
Sub-editors: Nick Bunning, Lindsay Smith & Chester the Cat
Writers:
Kevin Childs, Tony Sawrey, Kyle Barnes, Natalie Poole & Donna Kelly
Photographers: Tony Sawrey, Kyle Barnes & Donna Kelly
Graphic designer: Dianne Caithness
Contributors:
Darren Lowe (music), Sarah Lang (recipes), Jeff Glorfeld (US life), Bill Wootton (poetry), Dr Marita McGuirk (wildlife) & John Beetham (gardens)
Accounts: Julie Hanson | Delivery: Tony Sawrey
Heart of the School
Grade five and six students from Newlyn and Hepburn primary schools took part in the Daylesford College-led, the Heart of the School Art Mural project last Wednesday at the Hepburn Primary School Campus.
With Wadawurrung Traditional Owner and visual artist, Jenna Oldaker of Murrup Art, Ballarat, the students participated in a two-hour painting workshop, creating artworks and joining in discussions around aboriginal culture and art.
Sharing her connection to country, Jenna inspired each student to develop their own individual canvases and ideas to contribute to the final design of the Heart of the School Art Mural. This ambitious work will be installed at Daylesford College at the entrance to its Wellbeing Centre. An official unveiling with representatives from each primary school will take place later in the school year.
Jenna creates works under the name Murrup Art – murrup being the Wadawurrung word for spirit, which is fitting as Jenna’s art comes from the sacred tradition of storytelling told by her ancestors and their spirits. And while the prospect of executing an expansive public art piece may be daunting to some people, it is all part of a day's work for Jenna Oldaker.
"It’s just part of the fun," Jenna says. "I do all forms of art from custom commissions to murals of all sizes and it has been such a privilege to go to these smaller schools and get them involved in the creation of a large piece. It is great to have their input and for them to have that ownership over the final finished work."
The project is supported by The Daylesford Foundation, Ballarat Community Health through its School Focused Youth Service, the Department of Education and Training's Koorie Engagement support officers and Hepburn Shire Council.
The day's workshop, which forms part of Hepburn Primary’s grade five and six transition program at Daylesford College, incorporated a mixture of culture, yarning and art activity to encourage both Indigenous and non-Indigenous students to build knowledge and pride in Aboriginal culture through art and storytelling.
Sessions will also be held at other primary schools including Creswick and Creswick North, Daylesford and Yandoit, Trentham, Bullarto, Clunes and the Dharma School.
"The main idea is to help the students facilitate their own stories," says Jenna. "I want them to get their inspiration from the Dja Dja Wurrung country we are on. I want them to be inspired by these things that surround them everyday, the things that make this part of our country so beautiful and put that into their artworks. All these ideas and inspiration can then create the final piece: The Big Mural."
Daylesford College principal Steve MacPhail said the college was committed to celebrating connection to community, culture and Country. "We actively include First Nations voices in our teaching and learning, ensuring that the histories, cultures and perspectives of First Nations peoples are shared authentically and respectfully. Our continued partnership with The Daylesford Foundation and SFYS allows us to have a wider reach in strengthening our relationships with our surrounding primary schools, while lifting the visibility and vibrancy of culture at Daylesford College. The Heart of the School project is a fine example of this in action."
Words: Tony Sawrey | Images: Contributed
The Block BLOCK Watch
$3-3.3m for
Price guides for The Block homes have been revealed - $3 million to $3.3 million - for the luxury Raglan Street properties.
Belle Property Daylesford director Will Walton said The Block homes were within the Middleton Fields masterplan that included a mix of price points from onebedroom social housing residences to premium architectural residences.
"The Block properties are substantially larger and on more land than average Daylesford residences. There are very few contemporary architectural homes of the same land size and amenity, such as a heated pool and outdoor entertainment zone, within the township itself to compare. While our region does achieve a wide price range of properties from $400,000 to upwards of $6,000,000, the average home or medium price for Daylesford is $820,000.
Mr Walton said homes outside of the township in neighbouring rural areas do command multi-million-dollar prices – owing to them being set on acreage and the quality of the home. "There's two main things that drive people to the country – it's either affordability or space. We're lucky to be able to offer a choice. The Block has certainly put a major positive spotlight on our region, in particular small businesses and local community organisations. We've seen a major increase in interest from first home buyers considering our region. It's important we compare the whole real estate market that consumers can consider. Currently discerning inner city quality onebedroom are selling in the vicinity of $700,000." Words Donna Kelly
Magical evening for Rex
Some people said that it would be magic if Daylesford got its cinema back. Now magic is being used to conjure up that vision.
One of Australia’s greatest magicians is bringing her show to Daylesford for the Phoenix@The Rex Cinema.
Her displays of magic, illusion and mind-reading come with a splendid dinner, plus a seductive combo of swing, bossa and ballads.
Roving magician Cath Jamison, a critics’ favourite and multi-award winner, will weave her spell, while the jazz blues will come from Late Night Radio, comprising Cherie Bridges and friends.
The enchanting Cherie casts her spell with velvety vocals, Jeremy Challender brings the magic to life on the keys, while Bruce Millar lays down a deep, steady groove on the double bass.
Getting it all together will be the inimitable Megan Jones.
All of those involved are strong supporters of the cinema and are performing free.
Hotel Frangos is the venue, on Thursday, August 28. Doors open at 6.30pm.
Tickets are $65 a person include a two-course dinner at one long table, magic, music, razzle dazzle and a raffle with fabulous prizes.
Bookings close on August 24 and may be made by calling Hotel Frangos on 5348 2363, daily from 9am to 5pm.
Rate hike coming to your mailbox soon
Hepburn Shire Council rates and valuation notices will shortly begin arriving in letterboxes and email inboxes across the shire.
A council media release said general rates and charges were council’s biggest revenue stream, making up around 66 per cent of income and used to fund a wide range of essential services and infrastructure that support the local community.
"This includes the maintenance of roads, footpaths, along with waste collection, recycling, and drainage works. Rates also help provide and maintain parks, playgrounds and libraries. They support local planning and development services, and environmental sustainability initiatives.
"This year, rate notices will feature a new layout, with a clear separation between council charges and the Victorian Government’s Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF). This change aims to improve transparency and help residents better understand how their rates are allocated.
"Council continues to oppose the ESVF. Council has previously written to the Treasurer and Minister for Local Government expressing that the levy has a disproportionate financial burden on rural and regional communities, in particular primary producers.
"Council will continue to advocate for the shire and join the many other councils opposing the levy. Community members with questions about the ESVF are encouraged to contact the State Government’s State Revenue Office on 1300 819 033.
"Residents are encouraged to read their notice and accompanying material carefully. The information provided outlines total rates and charges, along with a range of payment options."
Mayor, Cr Don Henderson, said the council understood that some households may be experiencing financial hardship.
“A range of support and assistance options are available to help ensure you can manage your rates payments. We know that cost of living pressures are affecting many in our community.
“We want to assure ratepayers that help is available. If you are having difficulty, please do not hesitate to reach out as we are here to support you.”
FIRST STOP DISABILITY SERVICES
Cr Brian Hood said despite his repeated and strong pleas, the council had chosen not to proactively forewarn ratepayers of the combined impact of the ESC-approved increase and higher property valuations.
"Instead, the narrative of a 10 per cent increase has been doggedly adhered to. The absence of informative material from the council accentuates what will be false expectations among many ratepayers and deep concerns.
"In short, 72 per cent of ratepayers will incur a year-on-year increase in rates greater than 10 per cent, 26 per cent of ratepayers will incur a year-on-year increase in rates up to 10 per cent, and 2 per cent will see a decrease.
"The average increase across the shire on rates alone is a 12.75 per cent increase."
The council media release said the council provided eligible pensioners with a number of concessions (those holding a Centrelink Pensioner Concession Card or Veteran’s Affairs Gold Card (TPI & War Widow)). For 2025/26 the pensioner concession is up to $358 and includes: a maximum concession of $266 for general rates; $50 for the ESVF; and $42 pension rebate by the council towards rates and charges for eligible pensioner concession cardholders.
"The waste service charges and kerbside collection fees remain unchanged in 2025/26, and residents using the food and garden organics service will benefit from a $40 reduction in their annual charges.
"The council was successful in its application for a total rate rise of 10 per cent for 2025/26 which includes a 7 per cent increase to the existing per cent rate cap that was announced on December 23 last year by the Minister for Local Government.
"The increase for each ratepayer won't be exactly 10 per cent, as it varies based on individual property valuations.
"The additional 7 per cent rate rise will on average equate to an additional $2.20 per property per week and generate $1.36 million to invest in programs and services."
Rates are calculated using property valuations that are independently determined by the Valuer General each year on January 1. Community members can object to the Valuer General property valuation. Link: www.hepburn.vic.gov.au/property
Words: Donna Kelly
Skullduggery afoot
The Mount Players next production, A Skull In Connemara by Martin McDonagh, runs from August 15-31.
Featuring dark deeds and daft locals, this razor-sharp dark comedy is set in a quiet Irish village where the dead don’t always stay buried - and neither do the secrets.
Each year, gravedigger Mick Dowd is tasked with clearing out old graves to make space for the newly departed. But this year, something - or someone - hits a little too close to home.
With biting wit and a mounting sense of unease, the play spirals into a hilariously macabre investigation of small-town gossip, suspicion, and the skeletons we should all keep buried…but where’s the fun in that?
Director, Travis Handcock backed by producer Sonja Prater, bring their wealth of experience to the Mountview Theatre and promise patrons a theatrical experience that will both delight and surprise.
A brilliant set, special effects and a strong cast of four, it’s one not to be missed.
(*Warning: Some coarse language and herbal cigarettes used in the performance –mature audience only.)
The Mount Players offer a complimentary sherry on arrival and tea/coffee and biscuits during interval. The bar is open to purchase drinks before and after the show, and during interval. Ticket: www.themountplayers.com or call 5426 1892.
Above, from left, Brett Whittingham and Ruben Cameron
Words: Karen Hunt | Images: Karlana Santamaria
VIC STATE ROOFING
Below, from left, Brett Whittingham and Dawn Bamforth
Just briefly...
Outdoor dining safety and diabetic drivers monitoring their blood glucose will be among the issues examined in an inquest into the deaths of five people in a beer garden at The Royal Daylesford Hotel in Daylesford.
Pratibha Sharma, 44, her daughter Anvi, 9, and partner Jatin Kumar, 30, and their friend Vivek Bhatia, 38, and his son Vihaan, 11, all died in the November 2023 collision. The inquest is booked to begin on March 10, 2026.
Working from home will become a legal right.
Premier Jacinta Allan has announced legislation will be introduced to protect the ability of an employee to work from home. Under the proposed law, if a person can reasonably do their job from home, they will have the right to do so for at least two days a week – public sector or private sector. Following consultation, the government will introduce this legislation next year.
Applications are open for the 2025-26 Pride Events and Festivals Fund, a grant program that helps community groups and organisations deliver events that showcase LGBTIQA+ pride and visibility.
Event organisers are invited to apply to share in a grant pool of $400,000 –with $10,000 available for smaller events and $25,000 available for larger festivals. Applications close August 26. Link: www.vic.gov.au/successful-recipients-prideevents-and-festivals-fund
Rising Tide Ballarat is hosting a free community film night at Barkly Square Theatre on Wednesday, August 20 at 6.30pm to inspire local action in the lead-up to this year’s People’s Blockade of Newcastle Coal Port.
The November Blockade will demand an end to coal exports and a safe, sustainable future for all. The film,Turning the Ship, documents the 2024 Rising Tide Blockade, a massive, peaceful climate action that saw thousands take to the harbour in kayaks, paddleboards and boats to shut down coal exports from the world’s largest coal port. RSVP: risingtide.org.au/film/ballarat
Nominations are open for the 2026 Heather Mutimer Honour Roll, celebrating International Women’s Day in Hepburn Shire.
Each year, the Honour Roll recognises women who have made outstanding contributions to gender equity and community wellbeing. Nominees will have demonstrated leadership, shared their skills and knowledge, driven lasting and sustainable change for women, and introduced creative or innovative initiatives that benefit the broader community. Nominations close on September 30.
Works and planning on key water infrastructure projects in regional Victoria are now underway to safeguard town water supplies and boost regional water security.
Central Highlands Water’s Forest Hill Water Supply Connection project will benefit from $600,000 to investigate an opportunity to connect six towns, including Allendale, Broomfield, Kingston, Newlyn, Smeaton and Springmount to the Ballarat water supply network. They are currently serviced by groundwater.
The Australian Food Sovereignty Alliance has recorded its biggest advocacy win in the history of the organisation, as the state government passes reforms to make it easier for micro abattoirs to be built on farms without a planning permit.
“We commend the Victorian Government for introducing strong measures to support smallholders, and responding to the rapid loss of access to abattoirs for small and medium scale producers,” says AFSA Focal Point for Farmers, Dr Tammi Jonas.
New state legislation will see only highly qualified health practitioners – like nurses – able to administer certain medications in aged care institutions.
This includes drugs such as local anaesthetics, antibiotics, strong, medicines with strict legislative controls including opioid analgesics like pethidine, morphine, oxycodone, benzodiazepines and clinical trial medications. The changes will make aged care safer by addressing problems highlighted by the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety which found too many residents were given medication unsafely.
Got something to share? Email news@tlnews.com.au
Your say...
Brickbats and bouquets
I write in response to your recent articles on Home Care Packages, which unfairly characterised Central Highlands Rural Health (CHRH) and the care provided by our staff.
In your first article (July 14, 2025), our service was labelled as “the ugly.” This characterisation is deeply unfair to the dedicated staff who provided exemplary care to the individual mentioned in the article, who had a home care package with CHRH. The staff who delivered this care were hurt by the way their work was portrayed, despite their dedication and compassion.
Our team often went above and beyond to support the client and their family, who in turn expressed their gratitude through heartfelt thank-you cards and gifts.
To associate such committed care with the term “ugly” disregards the efforts of our staff and the high standards of care consistently delivered by CHRH.
In your second article (July 28, 2025), it was implied that CHRH charges high fees. This is simply not true. A review of publicly available data on other Home Care Package providers in our region shows that CHRH fees are comparable and, in some cases, lower. Your article should have included these comparable figures for context, which would have provided a more balanced and accurate picture for readers.
CHRH is a publicly funded, not-for-profit organisation committed to delivering high-quality, person-centred care under strict regulatory oversight.
We are fully transparent with our finances – our financial information is publicly available and published in our annual reports, which can be viewed on our website.
It is also important to note that CHRH is the only true local provider of Home Care Packages in this area. Our staff live and work in these communities, whereas other providers are based regionally, in Melbourne, and sometimes interstate.
Finally, the last thing we want is for people in our community who need a Home Care Package to hesitate in seeking support because they have read articles suggesting these services are inadequate. Inflammatory reporting risks discouraging vulnerable people from accessing the care they need and deserve. The coverage presented in your recent articles failed to fairly represent the care, commitment, and integrity of our services and staff.
We ask that future reporting acknowledges all the facts and reflects the full context of the care we provide to some of the most vulnerable people in our community.
- Maree Cuddihy
Chief Executive Officer, Central Highlands Rural Health
Just sayin'... page 25
I am a recent tree-changer from Melbourne and just wanted to say how much I enjoy having a paper to read.
Where I lived in Melbourne, most local newspapers ended around the start of Covid - or went online but that is not the same.
I like reading about other locals, as I hope to be one day, all the festivals happening and just finding my way around the region with interesting stories.
I pick up my copy of The Local from Cellarbrations. They are such a friendly crew and I like to support those businesses who support you. I guess your only revenue comes from advertisers.
That's why I also tried the bowls club, La Luna and wander around the Mill Markets and the community op shop. Well, not the only reason but The Local did point me in the right direction.
Keep up the great work.
- Louise Oldfield, Hepburn Springs
Letters to the editor are always welcome. Keep them short and sweet or long and interesting. Email donna@tlnews.com.au
A look at Trentham's past with historian Natalie Poole
me with your best shot ! Trentham Rifle Club No 243
The Victoria Government Gazette of May 25, 1900 paved the way for a rifle club to be set up in Trentham. "The Lieutenant-Governor in Council, has by orders made on May 21, 1900, been pleased to approve the formation of a detachment of a rifle club in Trentham."
A meeting was called on June 16, 1900 to form a committee for the Rifle Club. The office bearers were: President Dr. Sleeman, Vice President Mr H. McCashney, Treasurer Mr W. S. Twentyman, Secretary Mr A. McCallum, Committeemen Messrrs Cox, Trewhella and Captain Mr Charles Howell. An entrance fee of 2 shillings 6 pence, with a yearly subscription of 2s 6d per member was fixed at the meeting. The range was inspected by Mr Cox, of the Defence Department, and the approval had been given.
The first range was situated in a westerly direction from what is now known as Horvath's Lane (along the boundary of the current football ground). No signs remain of any shooting mounds which may have existed on the flat where the shooting must have taken place. The initial length of the range is unknown, but it is believed to have been approximately 1100 metres.
A second range was later located at the continuation of Gleeson Street through to and just across Countess Road. The target was about 45 metres south of Countess Road, with a large mound and a trench. This range was over 900 metres long and the shooting direction was from north to south. Today, if you drive down Countess Road to roughly the end of Rahills Road paddocks, an old mullock heap about 10-15 metres off the right side of the road can be seen.
By July 1900, the first range was in full operation and a musketry course focusing on the use of small arms with a revolving target invented by Mr McCallum and Mr Trewhella, was used and worked flawlessly. A similar course was used by the armed forces which included the care and maintenance of guns, a firing discipline and distance judging to prepare soldiers for military combat.
In September 1900, the first competition match occurred between the Blackwood and Trentham clubs. The team consisted of 10 men with 10 shots at 365 metres and seven shots at 460 metres. Blackwood won the match with 488 points to 413 with most participants new to the sport of rifle shooting.
The rifles initially used were Martini-Henry, single shot, lever action with a black powder cartridge of .577/450 calibre. These rifles were later produced in .303 calibre and were used during WWI. The Martini-Henry rifles were then superseded by the .303 calibre Lee-Enfield bolt action rifle with a 10-shot magazine. The government initially subsidised rifle and ammunition purchases as they considered proficiency in the use of firearms to be an asset to the protection of the country.
The local teams continued competitions up until the 1950s when the facilities fell into disrepair and were dismantled and all materials taken to the Kyneton Rifle Club.
Funny incident
One humorous incident which could well have been a tragedy occurred one day while the men were about to shoot when a chap, ignoring the red flags, proceeded across the range in a horse and dray totally oblivious to his actions and much to the consternation of the range officer Cecil Robson.
Image: Trentham Rifle Club c1907, standing G Hammond, W Trewhella, J Matheson, R Elliott, C Murphy, W Dunn, B Trewhella, J Cartwright and J T Robson, kneeling, P Drummond and F Robson, lying, H McCashney Jnr
Got a historical query for Natalie? Old building, town, memorial, person? Email news@tlnews.com.au
Courtesy of the Trentham Historical Society
Tiny but Trentham is tops for tourism
Trentham is the 2025 Victorian Top Tourism Town in the Tiny Tourism Town category - for its "charm, community spirit, and visitor appeal".
As the Victorian winner, Trentham will now be considered for a national award, announced on September 3 at Parliament House, Canberra.
Hepburn Shire Cr Brian Hood, long-time councillor for the previous Coliban Ward and resident, said winning the small town tourism award was fantastic recognition for the town of Trentham and its wonderful people.
“Trentham really is a hidden gem, perhaps not so hidden any more. Visitors enjoy Trentham’s walking trails and forest, the iconic Trentham Falls and a very warm welcome from locals and traders – from boutiques, eateries and our fabulous pubs to accommodation providers. This award is a great result for a great community. Congratulations to all who make this a fantastic place.”
If you are new to the region, haven't been for a while, or a visitor to the Central Highlands here are just a few places to pop on your must-do/must-see list. As chosen by TripAdvisor.com.
1. Trentham Falls
2. Domino Trail
3. Quarry St Reserve
4. Trentham Farmers Market
5. Trentham Railway Station
6. Wombat Trail
7. Historic Trentham Police Station
8. Trentham Golf Club
9. Little Gallery
10. Trentham War Memorial
Image: Sandy Scheltema
Living and working in a small town such as Trentham, you quickly learn that community is everything. It’s the people you see in the cafés, the families on the sidelines of the footy games, the artists showcasing their work, and the volunteers making things happen behind the scenes.
I’m Frances Harkin of Harkin Estate Agents Trentham, a woman in real estate and involved in the town’s journey. As a business owner for 15 years, I’ve always believed in being part of more than just the property market, it’s about being part of the town itself.
That’s why I proudly support local groups and events through Harkin Estate Agents. Clubs like the Trentham Football Netball Club, cricket, golf, and bowls aren’t just about sport, they’re where you really see the heart of the town. That’s where connection, resilience and local spirit live. Supporting them feels natural because they’re what keep Trentham strong and connected.
Creative events like The Hairy Arch Art Show, Winterfest, Little Gallery, Ladies Oaks Day Trentham, and the Great Trentham Spudfest add to that richness, bringing people together in ways that really matter.
That support extends beyond Trentham, we proudly get behind events in nearby little sister towns such as Blackwood, Tylden and Lyonville. These small towns are all an integral part of a shared community that stays connected, looks out for each other, and shows up when it matters.
Working with people and their properties, often their biggest assets, and helping them settle into country life is a privilege I truly value. It’s about more than real estate; it’s about welcoming people into a way of life and being part of their story.
Giving back to the community!
Trentham has strong country roots, with farmers, growers, and long-time locals at its heart. That’s what gives it its character. You’ll still find muddy boots in the general store and warm waves on country roads, the kind of everyday moments that matter.
Places such as our churches and pubs still bring people together, proving that old-school habits still work. Whether it’s a Sunday roast, a local fundraiser, or a quick chat on the street, that’s where real community lives.
Surrounded by natural beauty, Trentham is known for its rich volcanic soil, lush gardens, and scenic landscapes. Locals and visitors alike are drawn to landmarks such as Trentham Falls, and the Domino Trail, a peaceful walking and cycling path that winds through the forest and connects us to nature and each other.
It’s a cool climate, with crisp air and misty mornings while the fires burn on the inside; it’s also the hearts of the people that are warm on the inside.
It’s no surprise we were recently awarded Victoria’s Best Tiny Town, a title that reflects the generosity and spirit of the people who live here.
For me, giving back is just part of being a local. It doesn’t have to be big, sometimes it’s just showing up, lending a hand, or connecting people. This town has given me so much, and this is my way of giving something back.
Community spirit
Wombat Forest Vineyard
Established in 1997, Wombat Forest Vineyard is a family-run boutique winery renowned for handcrafted wines and warm country hospitality. Proudly recognised with back-to-back AGFG awards for Most Popular Winery in the Macedon Ranges and Spa Country Region in 2023 and 2024.
It’s the closest cellar door to Trentham, offering a tranquil bush setting minutes from town. The intimate cellar door features cosy wood fires and seasonal platters made with locally sourced produce, creating a welcoming space for wine lovers and families alike.
Deeply rooted in the community, Wombat Forest Vineyard employs locals, collaborates with regional artists and supports local events.
Our Family Tradition
Founded in 1950 by William ‘Bill’ Mooney, our accounting firm has a rich history of providing financial services. Bill’s son, Clement Mooney, CPA, took the helm in 1977 and expanded the practice after becoming self-employed from 1981. In 1988, Clement absorbed Bill’s clients, operating from a South Melbourne location.
In 1985, Clement purchased property in Trentham, where he took on the role of secretary for the local CFA and started building strong ties with the community. Over the years, he gained a loyal, local clientele.
Continuing the family tradition, Clement’s son-in-law, John Dorsett, IPA, joined the practice in 2018 and assumed leadership in January 2024. With nearly 50 years of industry experience, Clement remains available as an advisor to John, ensuring continuity and expertise.
The Burrow Event Space is a sought-after venue for weddings, corporate functions and music events, reflecting a commitment to celebrating local culture. Each year a special Locals’ Day thanks locals and strengthens community bonds.
Sustainability is at the heart of operations, with environmentally friendly practices guiding everything from vineyard management to packaging. Here, guests can enjoy boutique wines, a peaceful setting and genuine hospitality while supporting a business dedicated to its land, people and region.
Opening hours Fri to Sun 12-5pm 189 Springhill Road, Denver info@wombatforestwines.com |0427 239 334 wombatforestwines.com
EAT | DRINK | ENJOY
Out & About in the Central Highlands
Council News
Council
IWD Heather Mutimer Honour Roll nominations open
Do you know an inspiring woman in the Hepburn Shire? We’re now accepting nominations for women of all ages who have made an outstanding contribution to gender equity and the wellbeing of those living in the Shire, to join the International Women’s Day Heather Mutimer Honour Roll.
Nominations are open until Tuesday 30 September, and successful nominees will be announced and inducted into the Honour Roll at an International Women’s Day event in March 2026. Submit your nomination now at www.hepburn.vic.gov.au/IWD
Proposal to sell Council land
Council has identified seven properties it considers surplus to its needs and is proposing that they are sold in line with the Local Government Act 2020 and Council’s Disposal and Acquisition of Land Policy (Council Policy No. 93(C). Council is required to carry out community engagement prior to deciding whether to proceed with the sale of the properties.
It is proposed that the proceeds of the potential sales will be invested in a financial reserve to support grant co-contributions associated with future external funding opportunities.
Community feedback can be provided until Friday 29 August 2025 at https://participate.hepburn.vic.gov.au/proposal-to-sell-council-property
The decision whether to proceed with the disposal of the properties will be considered at the October Council meeting.
Rates notices arriving soon
Rates notices will be arriving in ratepayer letterboxes and email inboxes. This year, your rates notice will look slightly different as we are now separating the Victorian Government’s Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund charge from Council charges. Please take the time to read your notice and all accompanying material carefully, as they contain important information about your rates, charges, and payment options.
If you are experiencing financial hardship Council is here to help you. Assistance options are available to ensure you can manage your payments. Don’t hesitate to reach out to Council if you need guidance or support.
Locals discount at the Hepburn Bathhouse
The Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa has reopened after its recent improvement works. Council has worked closely with the Bathhouse team over the past few months and celebrated their reopening on Thursday 7 August.
Remember, locals are welcomed to the Bathhouse with exclusive discounted rates for bathing and sanctuary bathing. For more information visit https://hepburnbathhouse.com/mineral-bathing/locals-pass
Textile recycling at transfer stations
Our transfer stations have partnered with SCR Group and now offer a free recycling service for old and damaged textiles. Remember, unwanted items in good condition should be shared with friends and family, or donated to a local op shop. More details on what is and is not accepted can be found at www.hepburn.vic.gov.au/transfer-stations
Catch Tim and Rebecca at Words in Winter
Tim Loveday grew up on the south coast of NSW on acreage, where the closest he had to a poetry collection in his house was the TV guide. "Mum, though, was an avid reader of romance and mystery novels. From as early as I can remember, I was taping pages together, trying to scribble out the next best seller. I was desperately obsessed with the YA fantasy writer Emily Rodda. I earnestly believed that Rodda was a multi-millionaire. I thought Australian writers were living it up on Manhattan skylines drinking cosmopolitans. I read quite a lot of Capote in my teens, and watched too much late-night Sex in the City, which solidified this false perception. That’s where the initial spark of writing came from: otherworldly wealth. Jokes on me, really." He chatted with Donna Kelly.
Donna: How/what do you write? What's your method?
Tim: I’m mostly known for poetry, but I’m secretly a fiction writer. I was trying to write a novel and poetry happened. Nowadays, I spend time between forms. Fiction wise: there’s an eco-literary novel about a man who loses his dog during a bushfire, which is going to my agent soon; and as part of my PhD at Unimelb I’m writing a satirical novel about the manosphere. Likewise, I’m currently floating a poetry collection about regional masculinities and just got funding for another collection about Marxist discourses on leisure. Generally, I’m a pragmatic writer; I don’t have the time to wait for lightning to strike. I sit at my desk and tap.
Donna: What are you reading?
Tim: When it’s not poetry, it’s mostly satire at the moment (the PhD, alas). I just finished reading Nock Loose by Patrick Marlborough, which I thought was an exceptionally weird and wonderful novel.
Donna: What are you doing with the amazing Words in Winter Festival?
Tim: I’m moderating a debate called ‘To be or not to be: the poet laureate debate’ on Sunday, August 24 at 11.30am featuring poets Eartha Davis, Barry James Gilson, and Izzy Roberts-Orr. I think you can expect things to get a bit heated. The laureate role is a contentious one, with a lot of poets vehemently against it (and for good reason). So, expect a big conversation about what it means to ‘poet’ within so-called Australia.
Donna: Who are you going to be checking out in the program?
Tim: So many things! But if I’m forced to get picky, I can’t wait for ‘Shifting Perspectives – the role fiction and storytelling can play in climate action’, which features Alice Robinson, one of my favourite fiction writers working today. I’m also keen for ‘Queering the Body Through Poetry’, which includes two exceptionally good poets: Alex Creece and Jasper Peach.
Join Tim Loveday on Sunday, August 24 from 11.30am to 12.30pm at Hotel Bellinzona, Hepburn for ‘To be or not to be? The poet laureate debate’. Get your tickets and check out the program at www.wordsinwinter.com
Lister was born and raised in the mining town of Mount Isa in northwest Queensland. It was the boom years for mining and the town flourished both financially and culturally. Rebecca was involved in both the performing arts and sport. Her mum loved going to see plays and took her to see local and touring productions. This has had a lifelong influence on Rebecca who goes to see theatre as often as she can. She was and still is an avid reader - encouraged by her parents. Rebecca studied social work at university but was heavily involved in student theatre and began writing then. She wrote her first full length work in 1989 with her company Feral Arts. They made large scale works with community members – young offenders, school truants, young parents and the mothers of the young people. Rebecca talked with Donna Kelly.
Donna: What is your preferred genre? Writing method?
Rebecca: I am a playwright. My work is often naturalistic, and narrative and dialogue driven. I work on different projects simultaneously, so I have learnt to be disciplined, organised and focused. I am very content when writing and that’s important, I think, to all art makers. Keeps us going when the going gets tough.
Donna: Who are you reading?
Rebecca: I’m currently reading Women & Children by Tony Birch, The Introvert's Guide to Leaving the House by Jenny Valentish and listening to the songs of Eliza Hull. These acclaimed artists are my guests on my show On the Couch with Beck Lister which is happening at the Words in Winter Gala. All create work that is informed by their own experiences. I’m looking forward to robust conversations with them and hopefully a few karaoke duets afterwards.
Donna: What's happening with the Words in Winter Festival for you?
Rebecca: My new play big beautiful female theory will be read on Saturday afternoon at the Daylesford Hotel. It’s based on the memoir (of the same name) by local writer Eloise Grills. It’s a feminist exploration of fat bodies in a society obsessed with thinness. Like the memoir, the play is defiant, poignant, harsh and humorous. It will be read by actors Joanne Davis, Taylor Griffiths and Devon Taylor and directed by Hallie Shellam.
Donna: Will you be checking out others in the program?
Rebecca: I’m looking forward to opening night. The Words in Winter committee will honour two locals – David Hall and Petrus Spronk – for their many years of dedication to the arts and in particular, Words in Winter.
Join Rebecca Lister on Saturday, August 23 from 1.30pm at Daylesford Hotel for big beautiful female theory – play reading and Saturday, August 23 from 6.30pm at Hotel Bellinzona for Words in Winter Gala. Get your tickets and check out the program at www.wordsinwinter.com
Rebecca
Hepburn Wildlife News with Marita McGuirk
Turtles
As anyone who has lived in Daylesford knows, this town is a very popular tourist destination.
Recently a family from the eastern suburbs of Melbourne came to stay for a long weekend. They were enjoying a walk when to their delight they spotted a turtle crossing the road.
Their delight soon turned to horror as a car came hurtling around a corner and hit the turtle. They gently picked up the injured turtle, wrapped it in a jumper and took it to the local vet.
The turtle was x-rayed to see if she was gravid (carrying eggs), which she was, and the Hepburn Wildlife Shelter was contacted.
The turtle was badly injured, and at the Hepburn Wildlife Shelter, sadly, she did not survive her injuries. But before she died, she laid 20 eggs.
Gayle Chappell, from the shelter, says that car strike is a big issue for turtles. They seek to lay their eggs in moist warm places which, these days are often the sides of roads.
Female turtles being run over by cars is a very threatening issue for turtles as the potential for hundreds of hatchlings is also lost with the female. Injured females are always x-rayed to see if they are gravid and will often need assistance to lay their eggs. If the mother cannot be saved the eggs will be retrieved from her body.
The turtle eggs were placed in a specialised incubation chamber. It took two to three months of incubation at a specific humidity to hatch the turtles and under the expert care of Jon and Gayle, the eggs hatched, and the young turtles have now hibernated for the winter.
Join our FREE Pathway to Prep program
A fortnightly program in the Daylesford Dharma School Prep classroom to nurture school confidence and curiosity. Available for 4-5 year olds. Commencing Friday 15 August 2025, 10 - 11.30 am
Classroom activities include purposeful play, problem solving, nature based creative learning and age-targeted social-emotional activities in the daily rhythm of classroom life. Take a beautiful first step into school life in an environment built on kindness, curiosity, and joy. Don’t miss out. Places are limited to 12 children.
info@dharmaschool.com.au
They are independent once they hatch, but because of the time of year they will be protected throughout winter in the safety of the shelter. This will give them a fighting chance of survival and when they are old enough, they will be released into a more natural habitat.
In Victoria we have three native freshwater turtles, the Eastern Long-Necked turtle, the Broad-Shelled turtle and the Murray River turtle.
This was a long-necked turtle, these turtles sometimes travel between waterways when one dries out. They can live up to 50 years and are carnivorous, feeding on insects, frogs, tadpoles and yabbies.
Please consider these animals as you drive around our country roads.
Dr Marita McGuirk is a field ecologist and environmental scientist, and a volunteer at the Hepburn Wildlife Shelter. Marita writes monthly columns about the shelter and the animals it cares for. If you would like to donate or volunteer, or just to find out more information, head to www.hepburnwildlifeshelter.org
Article proudly sponsored by
Environmental Advocate win for The Stain
Artist, and The Local journalist, Anthony Sawrey has won the Environmental Advocate award at Ephemera Trace-less 2025 in Townsville.
The outdoor show was facilitated by Townsville City Galleries and featured 29 artists presenting works in a variety of mediums.
Anthony's work, titled The Stain, used the medium of non-toxic grass paint to create a large work on the grass along The Strand, a public park on the city's foreshore overlooking the Coral Sea.
Engaging with the events theme of Trace-less, The Stain was intended to address overlapping themes of hidden trauma and memory.
The biennial event ran from July 19 to August 3.
Genuine Battery Price Reductions
New 2025 Government Solar Battery Subsidy In Place
Here’s the lowdown:
• Subsidy is valid for all approved batteries, and all Central Spark’s batteries are approved.
• Funding is scaled to the storage capacity of the battery, so the larger you install, the more subsidy you’ll receive (the larger you install, the more back-up power you’ll get).
• Funding amount reduces in 2026, so try to decide this year. The market is already getting busy, so try to decide soon.
• Customers will get only one chance to claim, so make sure you choose a decent battery size that suits you.
• Contact Central Spark for a quote
• We’ll take the time to look at your power usage patterns and assess your current system to give you sensible upgrade options
around $1,800 subsidy
• Medium battery, around $3,900 subsidy
• Large battery, around $5,850 subsidy or more
Janssens
The Stain
support our community and shop local! “Locals supporting Locals” Restaurants, Bakers, Butchers, Cafe’s, Local vineyards, Distillers, Brewers and of course each other.
Remember we offer free delivery, T&Cs apply. Delivery times are Monday to Saturday between 10am and 4pm. We accept credit cards over the phone or we have an on-board eftpos machine. You will need to be at home for the delivery with proof of age if asked by the driver. Give the Foxxy team a call on 5348 3577. Keep safe, everyone.
Textile history talk
Panel speakers, Amanda Jean, Jackie Gorring and Helen Kaptein, will talk about Maryborough's rich textile history at the Central Goldfields Art Gallery, Maryborough on Wednesday, August 20 from 10.30am to noon. Amanda Jean is a licensed architect who specialises in cultural heritage and building conservation focusing on the Central Goldfields of Victoria, Jackie Gorring is a Central Victorian artist and was highly commended for her art quilt (Bunny quilt) in the Golden Textures Contemporary Art Quilt Award 2025, while Helen Kaptein is the gallery's coordinator. Bookings: cgsc.art@cgoldshire.vic.gov.au or call 5461 6600.
Link: www.centralgoldfieldsartgallery.com.au
Refurbishment for Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa
After 130 years of welcoming guests to its mineral-rich waters, Australia’s oldest, longest running and most iconic bathhouse has officially reopened following a stunning $1.7 million refurbishment.
To mark the milestone, Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa has unveiled a series of exciting upgrades including five new private bathing areas. These modern, unique bathing areas each offer a bespoke experience and were part of a wider renovation by contestants of the Daylesford-based 21st season of Channel 9's The Block
Thanks to this collaboration, Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa will imminently feature across several weeks of programming on the popular renovation series, culminating in one of the teams winning the biggest challenge prize in The Block’s history.
The upgrades were officially launched at a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Belgravia Group chairman Geoff Lord and Hepburn Shire Mayor Cr Don Henderson, pictured from left.
The $1.7 million renovation also includes upgrades to the property’s change rooms, an entrance refresh, new tiling, lighting, fittings and fixtures, ceiling restoration, a new audio system to enhance the guest experience and a general refresh of all internal areas.
Mr Lord said Belgravia Leisure was committed to rejuvenating the property back to its iconic status.
“Through this restoration, we were very careful to pay homage to the history and heritage of the property - which we know locals hold very close to their heart – whilst modernising various areas to guarantee an elevated experience for our guests.
“Today is a proud day for all of us here and I’d like to thank the team on site for their hard work and dedication while these renovations have been underway.
“This property plays an integral role in our aim of supporting the health and wellness of communities across Victoria, and we certainly can’t wait to hear the feedback from our guests on the transformation, and of course, I’ll be tuning in to see the property and the region enjoy the national spotlight on The Block.”
Words: Donna Kelly | Images: Contributed
WHY DOES BUYING LOCAL MEAT MATTER?
INCREDIBLE FLAVOUR
One bite and you’ll taste the difference that beyond free-range, pastureraised and grass-fed meat makes.
BETTER FOR YOUR BODY
Nutrient-dense, hormone-free, no nasty vaccines or chemicals and no feed lots or added water to bulk it up.
BETTER FOR YOUR COMMUNITY
Your dollars stay right here in Daylesford, supporting local farmers and families who in turn, support other local businesses creating a healthy, sustainable local economy.
The Bathhouse in its early days
Kyle’s Rant
I hear the word government bandied around a lot. I don’t know anyone from the government, I have never seen the government so how is it that every Thursday they take their first slice of my hard-earned money?
If I don’t pay this faceless organisation, they will charge me more money and eventually throw me into one of their gaols. And it is my responsibility to keep all my receipts and pay for someone at the end of the year to prepare a tax statement to present to them. And if I’m lucky I get a tiny tax refund.
So “they” clip 30 per cent of my income before I even have it in my claw, and then there is the 2 per cent Medicare levy. If I earn $1000 per week and I am not saying I do (bloody newspapers) before I get my money I have only $680 left. And you can broadly say I will lose another 10 per cent, when I buy anything with their Goods and Services Tax. Unless of course, I am buying feminine products (fair enough), but because I am a bloke and shave every day to look presentable, I must pay the GST on my foam and shavers, and they are not cheap.
So, I’m left with $612 in my hand, but unfortunately, I must pay for fuel for work, and it looks like the little piggies have their hand out for another 51 cents per litre. I use around 50 litres a week because I live in the country so that's another $25.50 out of my take home leaving me with $586.50 and I haven’t made it home from work yet.
Now I want to go to the pub to drown my tax sorrows, and I am only talking about five pints a week, and without boring you with the calculation this attracts $7.88 tax leaving me with $578.62 to take home to the wife. But she will want me to come home with a bottle of wine, and the good news is wine is not an excisable beverage. But, don’t break out the bubbles yet, the greedy bastards found a way around that too and slapped it with a wine equalisation tax or WET. This is typically a percentage of the wholesale value, so an average $15 bottle and one sometimes won't do, so let’s be (sort of) honest and say six bottles a week this attracts $26.10 of WET. So, I’m down to $562.62. This is what is left to pay for power, rates, food, loans, mortgage and maintenance - should you be lucky enough to own a house.
Now the list of indirect taxes takes a lot of research so excuse me if I turn to AI to track down all the ways that “they” have dreamed up to dip into your pocket.
State taxes include: Property taxes, stamp duty, residential properties: 1.4 percent on first $25,000, then escalating rates up to 6.5 per cent on amounts over $960,000. Land tax: Progressive rates from 0.2 percent to 2.55 per cent on total taxable land value above $300,000 threshold; council rates: around $4000; Payroll tax: 5.23 percent on wages above $900,000 threshold; Motor vehicle registration: $800 annually for standard passenger vehicles; and Insurance taxes: insurance duty: currently 10 per cent.
Other Victorian charges are: Fire Services Property Levy (FSPL): annual levy on most properties for fire services funding: Metropolitan Improvement Levy: 0.125 per cent of capital improved value on metropolitan properties; and Congestion Levy: on non-residential car parking spaces in Melbourne CBD and surrounds.
I am sure I have missed out on some, but my point is there is not much left after you finish your job and put your feet up for the weekend. In fact it makes one question what it is we are paying for, sure infrastructure is one thing, but there isn’t a lot of new infrastructure in our part of the world. And when I go down to Melbourne I still get stung to use the infrastructure with parking and tolls.
I am always happy to pay my bit to live in a civilised world, but these days my bit seems bigger, while the world is not all that civilised. Tax rant over…
Local Lines
In the bar my mum used to work
the smoke never shows on a ceiling that colour. decades cling to lungs like smouldering to glass. & still, i hear the men talking as if they can rewrite the prize horse with a pint, the mean bet that turned their futures to shadows, to ash.
there in the alcove i once called my childhood, an eternity wept into the coaster or clear as a looking glass on the varnish, my eyes squint through the ventilator’s haze as someone wins the feature & an old woman cries, not once but many times.
my mother knew the right beer before a note hit the bar. the twitch of an eyebrow, a threat not a courtesy. certain names, she was told, kept the coppers at bay, so she learnt to say locals. she in turn was a mother of sorts. give ‘em pride. give ‘em place. listen. that’s all they wanted like anyone else. her father was a drunk, so perhaps she knew the trick for what it was. no one called this bleating. no one called this place pews.
me, no bigger than a hangnail, 12 ounces that head-butted the rim, i watched with astonishment as these men emptied themselves with the emptying of a glass. i wish i could say i didn’t admire them—but two decades later, i’m still searching for the men who talk as if all men are granted.
- Rebecca Lister
Why I chose this poem: I have written very few poems about my mother. I suspect this is due to the gendered nature of writing production: men write about men, and women about women. All this, despite the fact that my mother has always been my ‘light in the dark’. This is an ode to the labour she endured and the places she worked—places that I once called my childhood.
Join Rebecca Lister on Saturday, August 23 from 1.30pm at Daylesford Hotel for big beautiful female theory – play reading and Saturday, August 23 from 6.30pm at Hotel Bellinzona for Words in Winter Gala.
Local Lines features poetry by locals about local and any other matters. Please submit poems to Bill Wootton at cottlesbreedge@gmail.com
Cockadoodle doooo.
I am Clucky, a young, handsome Wyandotte rooster looking for a home.
I enjoy classic rooster activities like strutting, digging in the dirt and crowing at the sunrise - no need for an alarm!
I would love a calm home with a flock to call my own.
Adoption fee: $10
MAAW Source No. BRI00938
Come and meet me at MAAWs in Castlemaine. Ph: 5472 5277.
(Pick me, pick me is run in memory of Rosie the Kelpie & Curly the Cocker Spaniel - we picked them. They would have loved Cluckybut not in a good way...
Pick me, pick me is also proudly supported by Daylesford's petstock - where pets are family.)
Just sayin’...
By Donna Kelly
Central Highlands Rural Health is not happy with me. Read their letter on page 10.
The organisation has taken umbrage over the use of the word Ugly, as in The Good, the Bad and the Ugly.
It is true I used it as a sub-head in the July 14 stories on home care - which were all about raising the issues surrounding our, mostly, elderly people.
I won't go back into the details but a woman, wishing to die at home and under the care of CHRH, had her respite hours and services cut after being moved to a higher level of care. CHRH could not explain this.
In their letter, CHRH says: "This characterisation is deeply unfair to the dedicated staff who provided exemplary care to the individual mentioned in the article, who had a home care package with CHRH. The staff who delivered this care were hurt by the way their work was portrayed, despite their dedication and compassion." But at no time did I, or anyone else, denigrate the work of staff.
In fact, of the staff, one of the daughters said in the article: “I cannot fault the workers on the ground, the girls that come and visit mum, they're fantastic. There's just not enough of them.”
CHRH are also not happy with a July 28 article, which offered up the fees being charged by them.
They say they are comparable, and in some cases lower, than other agencies but any pub test would call them a tad high. And because they are comparable fees with other aged care agencies does not make them any more affordable.
Respite care fees ranged from $77 per hour on weekdays up to $185 for public holidays which fall on weekends. Registered nurse fees range from $140 an hour to $349 while enrolled nurse fees start at $117 and go up to $293.
Allied health professionals receive up to $199 per hour for Monday to Friday. For plain old property maintenance or gardening the going rate is $90 per hour. I am sure they are all dedicated people doing exemplary work, but with those kind of fees no wonder the money runs out. More a fault of the overall system, I think.
Anyway, all good. Letters are always welcome. And I hope the changes coming to home care make it more accessible and affordable for everyone.
The July council meeting was interesting. If you ever have a few hours to spare you can jump onto YouTube and have a look at our councillors in action.
Mostly they stick to the agenda but at the last meeting Cr Lesley Hewitt added a fairly random motion for the CEO to investigate whether Rea Lands Park could be sold. I must admit, they were talking about selling surplus land.
Now if it was just another piece of land, hello Hepburn Depot and Bleakley Street, whatever. But it is a park that was gifted to the people of Daylesford, not the council, by former shire president and councillor, the late Betty Rea.
For the past 14 years it has been tended by people from the Daylesford Community Food Producers. So it is not just a park, a quiet spot to sit, or bring the kids or the dogs, but also a place of food production.
Those working there say it is a bit "wild" but that's all to do with diversity and not having to manicure every plant to within an inch of its life. There are big trees, and hidey spots for kids, and places to sit and meditate.
And on Sundays there is a steady stream of people coming and going to the market, calling in for a chat, perhaps some gardening advice.
The council will have to investigate now but I hope they find it's not worth the trouble. Like home care, it can't always be about the money. Just sayin'...
Business Directory - Support Local! Markets
Here is the crossword solution for Edition 337.
How did you go?
All words in the crossword appear somewhere in the same edition of The Local
Every Sunday - Daylesford Sunday Market
First Saturday - Trentham Neighbourhood Centre Makers Market, Woodend Farmers Market, Woodend Lions Market
Second Saturday - Trentham Community Group Market, Kyneton Farmers Market, Kyneton Rotary Community Market
Second Sunday - Maldon Market, Clunes Farmers Market
Third Saturday - Trentham Farmers Market and Makers Market, Glenlyon Farmers Market, Leonards Hill Market, Creswick Market
Third Sunday - Talbot Farmers Market,
Fourth Sunday - Daylesford Farmers Market, Trentham Station Sunday Market
Ageing DisGracefully members, including Max Primmer, get together at the Daylesford Mill Markets cafe on Thursdays at 11am. All welcome.
For information email ageingdis3461@gmail.com, call 0427 131 249 or head to the Ageing DisGracefully Facebook page.
Ageing DisGracefully is an initiative of Hepburn House.
Beetham's Botanicals
Well here I am penning another article for you, the reader, to enjoy...
This time I'll be featuring botanic gardens I have had the privilege to visit and, in the case of the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne, work at for 10 years.
So let's start with the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew (London, England) which cover over 500 acres and is home to over 14,000 trees. It is an immensely important UNESCO World Heritage site that began life in 1759 and has the most biodiverse collection of plants anywhere in the world.
The Palm House, completed in 1848, remains one of the most amazing constructions of its kind and is home to many plants considered to be endangered or (even) extinct in the wild.
My several visits in 1992 to this wonderful gardens opened my eyes to making sure botanic gardens (and arboreta) all around the world have a vital role to play in the conservation of plant species.
Heading east, let's grab a cab to 1 Cluny Road to have a stroll around the Singapore Botanic Gardens. Spearheaded by Sir Stamford Raffles, the gardens opened in 1859 now covering just over 200 acres and achieved UNESCO status in 2015. In June of 2016 I got out of that cab and entered a truly brilliant tropical garden set amongst sprawling lawns, water features and sculptures. Constant hot and humid conditions called out for an icy cold beer which I managed to procure at the kiosk before venturing out to record many trees I had only read about.
Boarding a plane, let's now fly over the Pacific Ocean landing at Vancouver International Airport and on to the VanDusen Botanical Gardens which opened in 1975 after converting a 55 acre chunk of land supplied by the local golf course.
I have visited these gardens many times from the 1980s through to this year and I always find something new that hits my horticultural heart.
There are many themed-garden areas here including a Sino-Himalayan collection which is well worth the extra time with its fine collection of Asian rhododendrons, maples and magnolias.
Well, we've come all this way since leaving the UK, so why not explore the David C. Lam Asian Garden (as part of the University of British Colombia Gardens, not far from Vancouver city). Here you'll find more rhododendrons, rare and endangered trees and their intriguing collection of lianas (climbers) that scale the heights of the indigenous conifers. Plenty of interpretive labels make it an educational experience like no other.
Time to head back west over the Pacific and have a well-earned stop over in Honolulu. I have come to the shores of the Hawaiian Islands many times before and after much reading am well aware of how a lot of island floras around the globe are now, in some cases, facing extinction due mainly to the introduction of (now feral) goats, pigs etc that avidly eat the native plants. But in the case of the Foster Botanical Gardens Honolulu (original plantings from 1853) we find ourselves immersed in a collection of tropical trees from all over the world that find safe haven within the city.
Think baobabs from Madagascar, kapoks from Mexico, Central and South America and Hawaii's own special fan palms (pritchardia spp.).
And now time to head home back to Oz. After leaving 'Tulla' find your way into Melbourne and feel the city vibe melt away when entering this amazing city's Royal Botanic Gardens. These are my fave gardens ever (slightly biased as I worked there for 10 years back in the day) an absolute treasure trove of species from all the continents except Antarctica. There aren't many times when I venture back to the Big Smoke that I miss visiting this oasis in the city and navigate back to trees (in particular) that I have seen maturing and giving joy to others.
And so that's it...another snapshot of my anecdotal horticultural life - hope you enjoyed. Cheers JB (Trees in Australia) | Next time: Spring is coming...
Weird red flowers at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne, the maple glade at VanDusen Botanical Gardens and the palm lawn at Singapore Botanic Gardens
