May 4, 2020 Issue 178 “Pota-toes”
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Front cover: Trentham's 2020 Spudfest might have been cancelled but it takes more than a global pandemic to stop Trentham’s harvest of the 30 or so potato varieties which have been grown in the district since the 1860s. The Denis and Alison Walsh family are among the local families being kept busy with the harvest including Finbarr, 11, left, and Róisín, 9. See story on page 24. Image: Alison Walsh
The Local is a weekly community publication covering the Central Highlands. The next edition is out on Monday, May 11, 2020. Or online on Sunday, May 10 at www.tlnews.com.au
May 4, 2020 Issue 178 “Pota-toes”
Space bookings: Wednesday, May 6 Copy deadline: Thursday, May 7 Editorial deadline: Thursday, May 7 Managing editor | Donna Kelly General manager | Kyle Barnes Sub-editors | Nick Bunning and Lindsay Smith Writers | Kevin Childs, Kate Taylor, Tony Sawrey, Peter Young and Donna Kelly
The Local - The Heart of the Highlands
Photographers | Kyle Barnes and David White 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 director.
Graphic designer & HLH coordinator | Dianne Caithness Contributors: Glen Heyne (gardening), Indre Kisonas (design), Tanya Loos (nature), Glenn Robinson (cartoons), Darren Lowe (music) and Matthew Richardson (money) Accounts | Julie Hanson
Delivery | Tony Sawrey
5348 7883 or 0416 104 283 | news@tlnews.com.au or sales@tlnews.com.au The content expressed within this publication does not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of The Local Publishing Group Pty Ltd.
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An important message from the Victorian Government
IF YOU THINK YOU HAVE CORONAVIRUS, GET TESTED TODAY. If you have any of these symptoms, get tested today and save lives.
Mild flu-like symptoms.
Sore throat or runny nose.
Cough or cold.
More information on testing at coronavirus.vic.gov.au
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Practising the art of spiritual freedom
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HE 38-metre tall figure of Christ the Redeemer towers over Rio de Janeiro. Now the Central Highlands has its own, much smaller, version, not in stone but in that great Australian basic, corrugated
Standing on the horizon as a constant attraction to visitors at Lavandula in Shepherds Flat, the four-metre figure is the work of sculptor Peter Laszlo and his artist wife Rosie. Welsh and Belgian respectively, they show a passion for spirituality, demonstrated by living off-grid and renouncing distractions such as TV, while finding both politics and religion unnecessary. At Lavandula, Peter, 61, has a small blacksmith’s shop where he makes metal sculpture. He shows photos of wonderfully elegant fire dogs and produces a 30mm thick iron bar wrought into the elegant shape of a knot. He plans to specialise in marvellously wrought gates and garden furniture. “I try to make it look as though it’s moving,” he says showing an example of an elegant gate in France decorated with moving objects. The reward he gets from his highly tactile art is when people smile at it. “That’s the best appreciation.” Ebullient Rosie, 54, joins in what they call the joy of bartering by painting portraits to swap, something that can take from five minutes to three days. Or they may barter manure from their 25 goats for strawberries. They met in Rosie’s homeland where Peter was showing his art at an African restaurant called The Rainy Season, which she was decorating. Having studied at a private painting school, she worked as a decorator for five years. Everything changed when she found a book by Frenchman Michel Potay who, when living in a small fishing town in 1974, said he received 40 night visits from Jesus. His book tells of how to be sin-free and without “the misguidance of religious and political dogmas”. After living in New Zealand, the Laszlos moved from Melbourne to the Central Highlands, a place says Peter, of “special energy”. “We aim to create a small community to regain our sovereignty. Our society is unbalanced and materialistic.” A time such as now presents an opportunity for people to think about their death. “Our body dies, but the spirit lives on if you are good…” This, he says, comes from Potay’s book. Their utopian outlook has led them to set up what they call the Good Path Foundation, where people will be invited to learn skills such as cheesemaking and gardening. “It will be a haven for free spirituality and true sustainability.” Their four-hectare block at Basalt is a place where their tree planting follows the practice of the region’s original Djub Wurrung people, keeping seven to 10 paces between trees to allow grass to grow. “We have to focus on a bright future and change, not go back to the way we were,” Peter says. “If we are freer, then goodness comes out of us. Love and freedom go together.”
Words: Kevin Childs | Image: Contributed
“We aim to create a small community to regain our sovereignty. Our society is unbalanced and materialistic.”
4 Local Lines
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Local Lines Moon Magic Since the dawn of man, The moon in all her stealth and glory, Fills our darkened skies, No envy, no malice, Just a penitent sadness for our frailty and humanity, So often seething with pain and strife, That darkens our days and nights and lives, Yes, COVID-19 or coronavirus, And many other pestilences before this, Have stifled and snuffed out lives, Some in their prime, North, South, East and West - In the far-flung corners of the Earth, She sees it all, Her misty teardrops, Fall upon our fevered brows, Her light like a calming mantle, Helps us through our darkened nights, Her peace cannot be shaken, Nor her glory taken, For the Creator has planned it thus. Silently she rotates in her orbit, Bringing us seasons of plenty and seasons of lack of poverty and pain, Yet she brightens our paths through life and death, Till time stands still. - Vanessa Craven Vanessa Craven is a musician with a fascination for the supermoon, which occurs when then earth and moon are in closest proximity to each other. Vanessa says the 'man in the moon' is always so sad and brooding. She took the above photo of the latest supermoon - a few weeks ago. Poems for Local Lines come predominantly from a group of poets. However, other locals who would like a poem considered for publication can contact Bill Wootton - cottlesbreedge@gmail.com
South Coast Fresh Seafood Will be back trading from Wednesday, May 13 @ Piper St Emporium Carpark 7.30m-11am
Sharing Love Rox
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or the past several years people have been finding stones of various shapes and sizes with images or words on them.
They are all around Daylesford, in random locations, especially found on forest and lake walks, restful seats and places of quiet contemplation. They say they are yours to take or leave and are called Love Rox by their creator. The long term resident of Daylesford prefers to stay anonymous and sees the stones as being small gifts of love designed to put a smile on the faces of those who find them. She likes to think that people who need them the most are the ones who find them. She says she often feels sad at the huge amount of suffering in the world and as a way to counter that she puts out joy and messages of love in the form of her stones. The woman said that over the past few years she has put out well over 1000 Love Rox with many different messages and images to brighten people's days. In the present times when people are isolated and only get out for walks and essentials, she feels the stones are needed more than ever and so she has doubled her usual output of stones. She loves to hear stories about people who have found a stone and what it means to them. "These stories really make me happy as it shows that such a small thing as a stone with a particular image or words found at the right time, by the right person, can really have an impact. "I want people to feel free to keep them and take them home with them or otherwise leave them where they found them. My aim is to put good things into the world and to choose love and kindness over fear. "This can be in all sorts of small ways and that is one of the good things that come out of challenging times, people get creative and find ways to bring joy to others, often strangers, in their own unique ways." If you have found a stone and it has connected with you, The Local would love to hear your story. Email donna@tlnews.com.au
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The history of the Mountview Theatre WITH the stage currently empty and waiting with great anticipation for the next show to start rehearsing, The Mount Players' vice president Karen Hunt wanted to share the history of The Mountview Theatre in Macedon.
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N 1972, resident Neville Thurgood gathered together a group of locals to form The Mount Players, with the intention of entering a one-act play in the Kyneton Daffodil Festival.
This began what is now a vibrant, active community drawing talent from far and wide. The newly-formed theatre company continued to perform one-act plays but had no permanent home. In 1975 they obtained a lease for the old Macedon Presbyterian Church located where the current theatre is today. Between 1975 and 1977 with a grant from the State Ministry for the Arts for $8000, members of the company together with local business groups donated their time and goods to convert the church into a tiny, cosy theatre with a seating capacity of 50. The theatre officially opened in 1977 with The Golden Legion of Cleaning Women. Between 1978 and 1982 the company went on to produce a wide range of performances including murder mysteries, comedies, musicals and pantomimes. In February 1983, on Ash Wednesday, tragedy struck when the theatre along with many members’ homes were destroyed. Original memoirs, photographs and programs were also lost. So began another period of being homeless which saw the company perform in venues such as The Mechanics Hall in Gisborne, Wooling Hill in New Gisborne, The Arts Centre in Kyneton, Gisborne Secondary College and The Macedon Family Hotel. In 1985, the now vacant church land was transferred to the ownership of the Shire of Gisborne and The Mount Players entered into a 21-year lease as tenants of the land and any buildings. In 1986, following an intensive period of fundraising, building of the new theatre began. A local builder took on the building part-time with members helping with the more mundane jobs to help complete the project. In 1987 the company was greatly saddened by the sudden loss of their thenpresident, Margaret Woods and former secretary and life member, Fred Blake. As work continued it became clear that there weren’t going to be enough funds to complete the theatre so in 1989 an agreement was entered into with the Shire of Gisborne whereby the shire owned the building and The Mount Players were given exclusive occupancy of the theatre and were to manage and maintain the building from there on. In November 1990 the new Mountview Theatre was officially opened with the performance of Scrooge. The rest, as they say, “is history”. The Mount Players have continued to produce four quality productions a year, an annual one-act play festival and with the introduction of a Youth Theatre in 2007 its future is rosy. How lucky are we to have this incredible theatre on our doorstep? All we need now is to clear this virus so we can return to doing what we love the most, bringing live theatre to our audiences. If you would like to read about our history in more detail and see photographs of past productions, we invite you to our website www.themountplayers.com See you at the theatre...soon, I hope!
Clockwise from top, the former Macedon Presbyterian Church/Mountview Theatre, The Mount Players' opening program, scenes from 12 Angry Men, Trial by Jury (October 1976) and Salad Days (November 1982) Images: Contributed Do you have a piece of history to share? Email news@tlnews.com.au
Our history 5
THANK YOU VICTORIA Thank you Victoria. For the way we’ve faced these past few weeks. With courage. With humility. And with hope. We may have been knocked down, but we’ve stood up. We’ve kept our distance, we’ve looked out for each other and we’ve kept our cool. With a newfound respect for handshakes, and an even deeper appreciation for hugs, we are spending time apart. But we’ve never been more united. And it’s the Victorians at the forefront of fighting this virus that we are most proud of. Our health care workers, our supermarket staff, our bus drivers, our cleaners and so many more. Every worker who – no matter what – puts themselves out there to help all of us through all of this. The best way we can help them, is by doing the opposite. By staying home. And staying positive. Respecting their efforts means respecting the restrictions. And, we can all see that slowly, it’s working. Yes, there is still a way to go. But we can’t stop now. Because staying apart keeps protecting our health system. Staying apart keeps saving lives. Staying apart keeps us together.
visit vic.gov.au/CORONAVIRUS Authorised and published by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne
When The Local called in with a punctured tyre, we found no job is too small for Jamie Adams from Daylesford Tyre Service! Image: Kyle Barnes
Creatives' grants Council online Rainbows on show
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EPBURN and Macedon Ranges shires' professional creatives are being encouraged to apply for Sustaining Creative Workers grants.
The Victorian Government is helping to save hundreds of jobs in the state’s independent creative and cultural sector with the $2.2 million initiative. It will offer quick response grants for Victorian-based independent creatives and micro-organisations with at least five years of professional experience. Grants of $5000 will be available for individuals, and $10,000 for micro-organisations and businesses. An additional $2500 in access funding will be available for creatives with a disability, and disability-led organisations. Creative Victoria’s funding programs continue to provide vital support to the sector, enabling creatives to continue to work through the shutdown and develop new projects, undertake professional development and pilot online platforms and other initiatives to reach new audiences. Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas said there was an abundance of talented and inspiring creatives in the community and many of them were facing significant challenges due to COVID-19. "I encourage all of our professional creatives in the Macedon Ranges and Hepburn region – individuals, organisations and businesses – to apply for the Sustaining Creative Workers grants."
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bill which would allow councillors to attend a council meeting by electronic means of communication during the ongoing coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. Since the start of the pandemic, council has been advocating strongly for the sector to have the ability to conduct meetings remotely rather than meet in person. The first meeting of council under the new provisions was livestreamed on council’s website in accordance with the new regulations. To view the meeting livestream, visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/ livestream
“We fly the rainbow flag each year on May 17 to raise awareness of the discrimination LGBTIQA+ members of our community still face,” said Cobaw Community Health CEO Margaret McDonald. “For the past four years we’ve held a public flag raising event, but this year due to COVID-19 restrictions we are making sure that we're being very creative in the online space.” While there are plans to raise rainbow flags at the usual sites across the Macedon Ranges, including council offices, Cobaw is encouraging community members to gather online on the day to watch a virtual flag raising which will take place on social media. In the lead-up to the event, they are asking community members to email a photo of themselves displaying the rainbow colours – it could be a flag, rainbow badge, scarf, beanie, socks or even rainbow nail polish. Photos will be shared in the week leading up to IDAHOBIT across Cobaw’s social media pages. Send images to cchshealthpromotion@cobaw.org.au
ACEDON Ranges Shire Council has held its first online-only council meeting.
OBAW Community Health will be "showing its rainbow" and encouraging The Special Council Meeting at 3.30pm others to show their rainbows of support on Friday, May 1 is understood to be the first to be held with a collective virtual flag raising on Sunday, by any of the state’s 79 councils since virtual meetings May 17 at 11am for IDAHOBIT – International were introduced. Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia Last week the Victorian Parliament passed a new and Transphobia.
Details: 5421 1666.
8 Music
Music
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with Darren Lowe
HE Cartwheels. Contemporary country and country-influenced material. Always a surprise or two at every gig.
The new self-titled album is a gem, a lovely range of classic country material, played tastefully and with a respect for the traditions of the genre. These guys should know, Glenlyon couple Wendy Phypers and Dave Patterson and son Charley Phypers have played together now for many years, and are not afraid to wear their hearts on their sleeves. There are some lovely Australian references to places like Koondrook on the Murray, with tales of heartbreak, regret and joy. Recorded jointly in Nashville and at Richard Pleasance's studio in Hepburn, the album features an array of guest musicians, as well as the core family band. Music writer Darren Lowe caught up with Dave for a chat for The Local. Darren: Great album, probably amongst your best work, a real nod to classic country, was that intentional? Dave: Absolutely, our favourite style of country is the stuff that was recorded from the 40s to the 60s so we always knew that we were going to do a traditional sounding album, particularly since we were going to be recording with musicians whose bread and butter is playing that style. Wendy’s song writing tends to lean toward that style. Darren: The song writing even deals with classic country themes of cheatin', lyin', etc but is nicely contrasted with some very Australian references, such as Koondrook and kookaburras, so it all seems to fit together quite naturally. Dave: We love using local references in songs and Kookaburra Calling is a snapshot of one of our many camping trips to Koondrook on the banks of the Murray. Off We Go Again is also autobiographical and is about our trips to outback Queensland and the joy of open blue skies, straight roads and flat tyres.
Darren: Congratulations on the album again, I love it, even down to the cover with the crocheted quilt! Dave: Thanks Darren, my Aunty Denise made the quilt. It was waiting for us when we arrived back from Nashville. We thought it would be perfect for the cover. Homemade with love.
The Cartwheels CD can be purchased via The Cartwheels Facebook page.
Darren: Tell me about the players you have on the album. Dave: We were lucky enough to have three players from the Nashville supergroup The Time Jumpers: Joe Spivey (fiddle), Jeff Taylor (piano and accordion) and Andy Reiss (guitar). The Time Jumpers are an 11-piece band made up of the best players in Nashville - including superstar Vince Gill. Wendy was lucky enough to do a guest spot on one of their shows and the crowd went absolutely nuts. It was the highlight of our trip for me. We also had Craig Smith on guitar, who recently toured out here with Jim Lauderdale and Doug Jernigan on pedal steel. Doug used to play with greats like Faron Young and Ferlin Husk and had some great stories to tell. Darren: I love how you’ve managed to include a number of country styles such as some Tex-Mex with the wonderful piano accordion work and some traditional/bluegrass. Dave: Country music is a beautiful mix of different regional influences. You can hear the sounds of early New Orleans jazz in western swing or an old English ballad in a Kentucky mountain tune. I love that about any style of music so we are happy to mix it up a bit. Kookaburra Calling just had this great cajun feel about it right from the start and Jeff and Joe totally got the sound we were after. We also love that although the music sounds like it’s from Louisiana, the lyrics are pure Australian. Darren: The final song is a beauty, a very mature, well-written piece which rounds off the album beautifully. Dave: Yeah, Heartbreaking World. Essentially the song is about life being tough but alongside that you have home and the ones that you love. Darren: How was recording in Nashville? Dave: Recording in Nashville was an amazing experience. We were fortunate enough to work with all the players we have listened to and loved for years and we totally immersed ourselves in the whole experience that is Nashville. Of course working with Richard Pleasance is always fabulous. We recorded the drums and bass with Richard before we left. We have done quite a bit of recording with Richard over the years and it is always a joy. He is an amazing producer and musician.
we’re still here Our Cellar Door and Dining Room may currently be shut but we’re still here turning grapes into wine, and shipping it to you!
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Inspiring 11
Storytelling online throughout COVID-19
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HERE are many ways to tell a story – and Anne E Stewart knows all of them.
She has had to, because the COVID-19 pandemic has posed some interesting questions about how to continue a storytelling event, the Cicada Slam, when people can’t be in the same room together. “We were having it at the Daylesford Hotel – they would load the fire for us, and it gave the whole thing a lovely feel – we love them, they’ve been our great sponsors,” Anne E explained.
“People kept asking me to do it, there was a lot of popular demand to bring it online, they wanted the connection.” “People having a drink and yarning on has been a big part of the Cicada Slam and that’s something we will miss, and it’s something that we’ll recreate online now.” Recreating the wine part is easy. Anne E has her storytelling chair, live from her Storytelling House and Garden, set up with a cheeky red beside it ready to go. The question was how to continue the storytelling part. Anne E has worked with so many different media during her decades-long career as a storyteller, on national radio and in schools and as an MC and at events around the world, that the switch to online seemed easy. It was certainly in demand. “People kept asking me to do it, there was a lot of popular demand to bring it online, they wanted the connection.” Anne E and her team, including Anthony and Zane and Mya, set the Cicada up to go online at www.cicada.com. Making things happen, especially locally, is part of what makes Anne E an inspiring woman. And the online format is having a surprising benefit for the storytellers. “When you work with a live audience, you get to respond to them so it makes it a little bit trickier but in other ways you might be a bit braver, because you’re a bit more anonymous. “The hardest bit about it is setting up a bit of etiquette about storytelling – maybe we can interact, maybe we can see each other’s faces or maybe we can’t.” And the first theme? Hindsight 2020. “It’s such a perfect one to start the series with. We’re trying to get our themes back in synch with what’s on our website, but as with most things at this time, it’s a bit of a work in progress.” The next Cicada Slam is via Zoom on Thursday, May 21 at 7pm with the theme My Brilliant Career. Enrol with anne@anneestewart.com.au for an invite.
Pictured left, Niki na Meadhra, with Anne E Stewart, right Words: Kate Taylor | Images: Kyle Barnes (This article is supported by the Judith Neilson Institute for Journalism and Ideas.)
Journalism grants
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HE Judith Neilson Institute has announced grants for nine more publications, as a part of its initiative to support freelancers and casual contributors during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Grants have been awarded to Justinian and The Gazette of Law and Journalism, The Advertiser, The Local Publishing Group, In Queensland, Crikey, Croakey, Limelight Magazine, and The Courier Mail. The grants are used in a variety of ways, including for commissioning specific article and engaging freelancers to provide editorial support to newsrooms. The institute will continue to award grants on a rolling basis, with new grantees to be announced soon. The Local Publishing Group would like to thank the Judith Neilson Institute for helping support freelance journalism during these tough times. Journalist Kate Taylor will continue with her series on inspiring women, such as Anne E Stewart, over coming months.
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Funding for reserve
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OUNT Macedon’s iconic Memorial Cross Reserve is being enhanced with $50,000 funding from the Victorian Government.
The reserve is a major attraction in the Macedon Ranges region and has a long history of community use, although an increase in visitor numbers has put pressure on the reserve environment and infrastructure. The funding will go towards a detailed heritage analysis to preserve and enhance the site’s commemorative features. It will also ensure more stories of local WWII veterans can be depicted at the site, in recognition of the 75th anniversary of the end of WWII this year. The detailed planning and works follow the master plan for Mount Macedon completed by La Trobe University’s Community Planning and Development Unit last year, which showed a more than 66 per cent increase in visits to the cross in recent years. The grant is one of 63 to be delivered across the state to build and repair memorials, preserve stories and maintain the wellbeing of veterans as part of four grants streams: Victoria Remembers, Restoring Community War Memorials and Avenues of Honour, the ANZAC Day Proceeds Fund and the 75th Anniversary of the End of World War Two. Minister for Veterans, Robin Scott said the Mount Macedon War Memorial Reserve was one of the most significant war memorials in regional Victoria. "This is about preserving the history of our state and ensuring that we never forget the great sacrifice our veterans made." Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas said the grant was "terrific news for our community and for everyone that has worked so hard to ensure the reserve continues to welcome visitors well into the future". "The Reserve has been attracting record visitors in recent years – this funding means we can cater for those bigger crowds and preserve the site for generations to come."
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Regional real estate
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HE Victorian Government is extending the $20,000 First Home Owner Grant for people buying or building a new home in regional Victoria for an extra 12 months, in another measure to support Victorians through the coronavirus pandemic.
Treasurer Tim Pallas recently announced that the regional grant – which had been due to end in June – would be extended until the middle of 2021. It gives more Victorians the opportunity to live in regional Victoria and enter the market for the first time, while also providing certainty to the regional construction industry as the state deals with the impacts of coronavirus. In 2017, the Victorian Government doubled the regional First Home Owner Grant from $10,000 to $20,000 to tackle housing affordability and help Victorians realise their real estate dreams. Since then, more than 8800 regional First Home Owner Grants have been provided, saving Victorian families $176 million. To be eligible for the grant, the purchaser or purchasers must be first home buyers buying or building a property valued at $750,000 or less, and it must be used as the principal place of residence for 12 continuous months following settlement. The grant is available for first home purchases across 48 councils with Greater Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo, Wodonga and Shepparton among the most popular. The regional grant is part of the Victorian Government’s Homes for Victorians package, which also offers a $10,000 First Home Owner Grant for eligible purchases in metropolitan Melbourne and offers stamp duty exemptions and discounts for new homes up to $750,000. Treasurer Pallas said the coronavirus pandemic was making it even tougher for young people to achieve their dreams of homeownership – and that was why the government was extending the grant which had helped so many regional Victorians. “Owning your own home shouldn’t be a pipe dream – we’re helping out with the financial kick-start they need to make it a reality,” he said.
Community News A WORD FROM THE MAYOR Virtual Council meetings from 1 May 2020 Council now has the legal capacity to temporarily conduct virtual council meetings utilising an electronic platform. Meetings will be open to the public via live streaming (that is, no physical presence). This also applies to special committee meetings who have the option of making videos available on the web as soon as practicable after that meeting. Hepburn Shire will be conducting its first virtual meeting on 19 May 2020, and it will be live streamed. Ward structures for next Council elections On 22 April, the Minister for Local Government, Mr Adem Somyurek, announced the new electoral structures for Victorian councils. For Hepburn Shire, he has accepted the recommendation of the VEC that the Ward structure remains the same for the next Council election scheduled for 2020, with the condition that for the 2024 Council elections, Hepburn Shire will need to comply with the structures declared in the new Act (that is, single member, unsubdivided or uniform multi-member structures). ANZAC Day, 2020 It was certainly a very different ANZAC Day commemoration this year. No parades, no beautifully turned out horses and riders, no local bands, no gathering of ex-military personnel and other local dignitaries to pay homage to the soldiers and support personnel. For me, the day started early standing silently with my candles and radio listening to the service. I was joined by several other neighbours who stood silently in a large circle to listen to the recitation of the Ode, the playing of the Last Post, Reveille and finally the National Anthem. Such a haunting ceremony, and much more poignant because of the silence. What I have always found difficult about large public ceremonies is that it can blot out the need to reflect deeply on what it is we are commemorating - how war changes absolutely everything, the capacity to reach into our humanity, to understand that war makes ordinary people do extraordinary things, why do countries go to war in the first place and what is achieved, are just a few of my reflections. How can one be on one side of the fence in one decade, but fighting on the other side decades later. In the end, probably there are no answers, just more questions. Cr Licia Kokocinski Mayor
Coronavirus Community Support Grants Program The Coronavirus (COVID-19) Community Support Grants Program aims to support and sustain our community and residents throughout the response and recovery phase of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. There are four categories available for both short- and long-term initiatives. • Quick Response Grants – up to $1,000 • Arts and Culture Grants – up to $2,000 • Sport and Active Recreation Grants – up to $2,000 • Community Support Grants – up to $2,500 Prospective applicants should read the Program Guidelines and then contact a Council Officer prior to submitting an application. For more information and guidelines visit www.hepburn.vic.gov. au/covid-19-community-support-grants/.
Community Planning Implementation Fund
The Community Planning Implementation Fund has been developed to support the implementation of actions within Hepburn Shire Council endorsed Community Plans. This is an opportunity for community to apply for funding to implement the actions in each Community Plan. Who Can Apply Local not-for-profit groups and organisations within the Hepburn Shire, who are incorporated with an ABN or have an auspicing agent. Funding Opportunities Community groups and organisations will have the opportunity to apply for funding on an annual basis.
Community Grants The Hepburn Shire Community Grants Program Round 4 closes 7 May 2020. If you are working on an application please finalise and submit it by this date. If you missed this opportunity don’t worry, Community Grants will reopen again for the new Financial Year. To access the guidelines visit www.hepburn.vic.gov.au/ community-grants-program/.
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Recommendations to Council will be made on an annual basis. Key Dates Community Planning Implementation Fund opens 7 May 2020 and closes 4 June 2020. Applications If you have a great idea that meets this criteria, please contact Community Development Officer Inga Hamilton on ihamilton@ hepburn.vic.gov.au or call 0456 950 924.
For after hours emergencies please call: Animal Control - 0419 587 955 Other Council Emergency - 0419 583 573 hepburncouncil
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DAYLESFORD & CRESWICK
DAYLESFORD 20 HOWE STREET
THE MAYFAIR Here is a rare opportunity to purchase a gem of a building on around a 1021m2 block with planning approval to subdivide and 120m2 commercial establishment. Recently painted, new furnishings, new hot water units and new central heating downstairs, this property presents the astute investor or someone wanting a grand residence with an opportunity to secure an iconic piece of Daylesford’s history. • 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms • Additional full self-contained studio unit • Formal dining room, fully equipped kitchen, lounge area & sitting area • 2 street-level shops • 1021 m2 block with a planning permit for a bar/function centre, selling of liquor and 2 lot subdivision
a6 b4 FOR SALE PRICE $2,250,000 CONTACT Michael DeVincentis 0417 142 152 OFFICE 43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328
HEPBURN 16 VANINA STREET THE QUARTER ACRE DREAM - VACANT ALLOTMENT IN QUIET RESIDENTIAL AREA A private and level allotment of approx 1000 sq.m (quarter acre) located in the quiet residential area of Hepburn, just 5 minutes drive to popular Daylesford. With views to hills beyond, all services available and within short easy walking distance of the shops & cafes of Hepburn Springs village, Mineral Springs Reserve, Golf Course, Primary school and kindergarten this property is perfect for those seeking to build their own home, weekender or rental investment dwelling.
DAYLESFORD 1/4 TREWHELLA AVENUE FOR SALE PRICE $220,000 CONTACT Rae Corris 0408 358 772 OFFICE 43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328
ID and contact details are required at all open for inspections
FULLY RENOVATED UNIT CENTRAL DAYLESFORD Situated in the heart of Daylesford, this recently renovated and impressively appointed, two-bedroom free standing unit is only a few minutes’ walk to the Daylesford Town Centre, Daylesford Bowls Club, the famous Cliffy’s Café, Beppe’s and the Convent Gallery. The property presents a light filled central living area with soaring cathedral ceiling giving an open and airy space leading to the private outdoor entertaining decking. Featuring BIR in both bedrooms, new kitchen with dishwasher and a fully renovated bathroom.
a2 b1 c1
CLOSING DATE SALE Friday 22nd May 2020 CONTACT Michael DeVincentis 0417 142 152 OFFICE 43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328
bigginscott.com.au
DAYLESFORD & CRESWICK
DAYLESFORD 18 QUEENSBERRY STREET ELEGANT COUNTRY RETREAT WITH WHITE PICKET FENCE Located in arguably one of Daylesford's best tree lined streets, with Wombat Botanical Gardens and Wombat Hill House at the end of the street. This near new 3-year-old residence offers the best of country living with all the modern luxuries of a new build. The home is beautifully positioned to capture the sunrise in the morning and the stunning sunsets over the Wombat Forest in the evenings.
HEPBURN 15 VANINA STREET FAMILY HOME IN QUIET SETTING Situated in a quiet residential area this well-presented family home is positioned on a large 1030m2 block. This 3bedroom home features a large lounge/family area, separate meals/kitchen with corner pantry and gas cooking. The master bedroom offers a large WIR and ensuite with spa, the other 2 bedrooms have BIR and a separate bathroom. Outside the established garden features a number of fruit producing trees, outdoor gazebo and the property is fully fenced.
a3 b2 c2
DAYLESFORD 54 WEST STREET
a3 b2 c2
CRESWICK 6 AUGUSTA DRIVE
FOR SALE PRICE $875,000 CONTACT Tom Shaw 0438 118 903 OFFICE 43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328
FOR SALE PRICE $480,000 CONTACT Tom Shaw 0438 118 903 OFFICE 43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328
ID and contact details are required at all open for inspections
HIGH ON THE HILL & READY TO RENOVATE Proudly appointed on the high side of West Street with long views towards Wombat Hill and the Daylesford main street. This charming 3-bedroom home features a number of period and original features such as polished timber floors, high ceilings, sash leadlight windows, picture hanging rails frosted glass double doors and more. An ideal renovation project with an abundance of potential to be on the holiday rental market, investment property, weekender or permanent home.
EXECUTIVE HOME IN SOUGHT AFTER GOLDFIELDS GOLF ESTATE LOCATION Situated in the luxury Goldfields Golf Course Estate is this well appointed 2 story home complete with beautifully landscaped private gardens just 12 minutes from the Ballarat CBD and under 90 minutes to the centre of Melbourne. Positioned on the high side of the road with views across the greens of the golf course and the surrounding native bush land, you have the best of both worlds with this stunning property.
a3 b1 c2
FOR SALE PRICE $495,000 CONTACT Tom Shaw 0438 118 903 OFFICE 43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328
a3 b2 c2
FOR SALE PRICE $595,000 CONTACT Tom Shaw 0438 118 903 Michael DeVincentis 0417 142 152 OFFICE 32 Albert Street, Creswick 5345 1073
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House.Land.Home.
It's only natural to care about your garden and its inhabitants!
In your desire to protect your plants from the many pest attacks, it's easy to overlook the many other inhabitants of your garden, some quite inconspicuous, but mostly on your side. Since the mid 1950s when the world’s major chemical companies turned their resources towards producing domestic products, it has been all too easy to flood our gardens with “harmless to humans” of all kinds to keep the garden bug- and diseasefree...and what a catastrophic mistake in many ways that was. Throughout my teen years working in the family nursery I would think nothing of spreading a knapsack sprayer full of whatever was the latest concoction through the glasshouses and outdoor beds, dressed for Summer in shorts and singlet, to keep the plants pest-free in blissful ignorance of the consequences that were to come. Which included in my case persistent rashes, heightened bronchial asthma and a crap immune system. We were later to discover the far-reaching effects of systemic sprays - those designed to stay in the system for long-lasting effectiveness. The truth of it all hit home in 1962 when I read Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring, which exposed the destruction of wildlife through the widespread use of pesticides. Despite the attempts of the worldwide chemical industry to ban her book, she succeeded in creating a public awareness, leading to changes in government policy and inspiring the modern ecological movement. It certainly changed my whole perception of the horticultural industry. Especially when I discovered that many of the products stocking our garden outlet's shelves had been long-banned from sale or use in the US. Fortunately we now have a great range of organic and natural gardening remedies at our disposal if we wish, as a last resort, to spray. But remember there are more inhabitants in our gardens than those out to damage our plants and I’m not just thinking of the bees and other flying insects they rely on for pollination. If, like me, you prefer not to risk harming the useful garden predators, there are alternatives like low-toxicity sprays based on extracts from plants such as pyrethrum, garlic, even rhubarb, and detergent-based insecticides building on the old country soapy water remedy. There are also biological sprays such as dipel which causes grubs to be attacked by a bacterial disease, harmless to anything else. The good news is that it is possible to make quite satisfactory sprays at home from readily available materials. I will feature a list of them, with their recipes, in next week's column.
Build a bug hotel
One way to attract and keep useful predatory insects in your garden is to provide them with secure accommodation and one way is to provide shelter in the form of a bug hotel hanging close to the plants you wish to protect most. And why not build one yourself as a garden ornament/craft project? One of my several rustic hotels is pictured, with a couple of likely visitors, the south-east Australian hover fly and a praying mantis, orthodera ministralis.
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Bells Water Gardens @ Newlyn
Bells Water Gardens has been in the water garden business for over 25 years, building and maintaining ponds and growing a diverse range of aquatic plants for the nursery trade and public. We are passionate about building natural eco-system ponds, adding beauty and encouraging wildlife, allowing interaction with nature. Water gardens built by us are quiet, contemplative places to rest and energise the senses. Contact us for all your water garden requirements or come and see our nursery at 1 Campion Rd, Newlyn.
0418 567 195
House.Land.Home.
Selling your house, land or home? Make sure you are in the Premium edition of House.Land.Home. out in time for the Queen's Birthday long weekend. In print Monday, June 1, online Sunday, May 31. Call Kyle on 5348 7883 or 0416 104 283 or talk to your real estate agent today.
Great results for quarter
T state.
HE Victorian property market achieved record-breaking growth prior to the outbreak of coronavirus, with the REIV quarterly median house and unit for the March quarter revealing great results across the
During the March quarter metropolitan houses soared to a new record height, eclipsing $890,000 for the first time, a 3.7 per cent growth on the previous December 2019 quarter. Metropolitan units followed this strong trend, reaching over $640,000. Growth continued evenly across regional Victoria with gains in both units and houses. Greater Bendigo has fared very well featuring five suburbs in the list of top 20 suburbs for quarterly growth for regional Victoria. REIV CEO Gil King said the REIV’s March quarterly medians showed that the Victorian property juggernaut was in peak form before the outbreak of COVID-19. "2020 has been an amazing year for real estate; property values have reached new heights across the state during January, February and March," Mr King said. "Investors in the Victorian property market will be thrilled with these figures, units and houses have soared in value - our market is in red hot form. "Victorian property owners are reaping the rewards, and a strong buyers' market has led to property values undergoing unprecedented growth. "Our local market is strong and resilient, buyers from across the globe have shown great interest in Victoria. "Everybody wants to get in on the action. We were regularly getting over 1000 homes sold at auction over a weekend, competition for houses in Victoria remains strong. "In chaotic times such as we are battling now, it is a much welcome relief to be able to see some good news, Victorian real estate is in great condition. "Our industry is strong, and we will survive coronavirus, the desire for Victorian real estate is high, when this is over we look forward to more fantastic results."
Link: www.reiv.com.au
Drinks 21
Quarantini O'Clock G’Day All,
We have free delivery for all orders over $50 within a 10km radius. We can make some exceptions if you are outside that zone for a small fee. Delivery times are Monday to Saturday between 10am and 4pm. We accept credit cards over the phone or we have an onboard EFT 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.
Now delivering
with Leon
Welcome to another Quarantini O’Clock, the print edition.
With Autumn leaves fast falling and temperatures quickly dropping, I thought it would be great to warm you all up from the inside with a Hot Buttered Rum. “Butter in a Cocktail?!”, I hear you say. Trust me, it’s absolutely moreish and you’ll be hard pressed to stop at one. This warming drink dates back to colonial days in America, where rum was seen as being nutritious and strengthening to the body's constitution and spiced alcoholic beverages were drunk to warm people up during long, cold Winters. I think we can make it a Winter tradition here, catching up with friends and family around backyard bonfires when we can finally get within arm’s reach of one another. Stay safe and stay warm out there. - Leon.
Hot Buttered Rum Ingredients:
Knob of butter, room temp Pinch each of ground cinnamon and ground nutmeg, or if you’re fancy, grate some whole nutmeg 45ml spiced rum Spoon of honey if you’d like it a bit sweeter Whipped cream to garnish Boiling water
Method:
Take your butter and mix in the cinnamon and nutmeg to your taste, pop in the fridge to cool. Once cool add a teaspoon of the butter to an enamel cup or heatproof glass and add hot water till the vessel is ¾ full, stir until butter is dissolved. Add 45mls of spiced rum and stir to mix. Add honey if desired. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Find a warm fire to stand by, drink and enjoy. Get your daily Quarantini fix by following @barry_and_co on Instagram.
Wine notes
F
OURTH generation farmers Doug and Carolyn May operate Captains Creek Organic Wines in Blampied.
This family-owned winery was established in 1994 and produces wines and ciders from fruit grown on their property. Certified organic and vegan, Captains Creek has you covered. Try their ever-popular sparkling white or red, rosé, oaked or unoaked chardonnay or their three ciders – sparkling, dry or sweet. With the cold weather upon us their pinot noir is sure to please. With Mother’s Day approaching, why not spoil mum with a selection of their wines? Alternatively gift vouchers can be purchased via their website for mum to enjoy in their restaurant when COVID-19 restrictions are lifted. All vouchers of $100 or more will also receive a complimentary bottle of their Hepburn Sparkling wine. Now, that’s a pretty great deal that all mums will love. Captains Creek is still open on weekends for takeaway sales between 11am-5pm, online sales via their website, www.captainscreek.com, or from Cellarbrations in Daylesford. Free delivery on three-bottle purchases or more is also being offered to Daylesford, Hepburn Springs and surrounds. Use the code FREETOYOURDOOR in the coupon field on their online store or phone Carolyn on 0417 589 308. Thanks for supporting local small business.
The Local is running Wine notes in each edition - featuring wineries from around the region. To take part email donna@tlnews.com.au And please, when you can, support local. Oh, and drink responsibly.
WE’RE STILL OPEN Whilst our restaurant is currently closed, our cellar door is still open on weekends for takeaway sales between 11am and 5pm. For free delivery of three bottles or more use the coupon code FREETOYOURDOOR in our online store. WWW.CAPTAINSCREEK.COM | 0417 589 308 |
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22 Dining
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Delicious takeaway fare at Trentham's Cosmo
T
HE Cosmopolitan Hotel closed, due to COVID-19, on a Sunday night, pivoted, and opened two days later remodelled into what is now a popular Trentham takeaway business.
Manager Fiona Miovich said there had been heartbreak at having to cancel all casual shifts on the Monday after closing down, but then there was the realisation the hotel needed to stay afloat to ensure future employment of those staff members. “We had toyed with the idea of expanding our wood-fired pizza takeaway to include other items and COVID-19 very quickly became the catalyst to decide what other current menu items we had that would translate well into takeaway. “And if it continues to go well, we would definitely consider continuing this arm of the business after we are able to reopen the doors.” Fiona said menu items included the introduction of a couple of “brilliant curries, expertly and authentically made by Bob”, their Indian head chef. “We’ve also carried over the crowd-pleasing Thai green curry, expanded on the always popular wagyu beef burger with a house-crumbed chicken schnitzel burger and also on offer is the mushroom burger. “Having no takeaway fish and chips in town, the beer-battered gummy shark is appreciated. Then there’s the kids’ menu…” Fiona said the hotel’s Cellar & Store was also open for takeaway with great support from the community, which not only helped the hotel but also the many regional wineries whose wines they stocked. “Our Cosmo cleanskins range is walking out the door, often as a second, or third, bottle to take home. They are quality wines at a great price, particularly during these tough economic times and we also stock regional craft beer.” But while business is going well, for a pandemic, Fiona said the staff are missing their locals. “We are missing our locals terribly, mostly the regulars around the bar, the conversation and sense of community. It’s a meeting point for many who regularly catch up on a Friday night to have a yarn. Also, those who come in every weekend for a meal while spending weekends at their country properties, and the tourists who have enjoyed the beer garden. “But Trentham and surrounds, including a weekly visit from a few Ballan customers, have been an incredible support over these past few weeks, with some customers making a regular weekly takeaway order.
“A socially-distanced chat is enjoyed by both us and them, exchanging how they are coping and how things are going for them, agreeing that a delivery service is not required at this stage as everyone is busting to get out of the house for an ‘essential’ travel!” The Local headed to Trentham last Friday night to pick up a takeaway meal - beef vindaloo ($18) with roti bread and rice (both $4) for Kyle, and the wagyu beef burger with chips ($18.50) for me. Oh, we might have ordered an extra chips with herb salt and aioli ($6). Only because I didn’t realise the burger came with chips. It was delivered, contactless to the car by the lovely Fiona, along with a big smile and lots of kisses. Virtual, of course. We took it all home, popped it in a low oven and started our Friday evening with a glass of chardonnay for me, and a Carlton Draught for Kyle, lovely, although he would kill for a beer off the tap right now. The chips became our entrée – they were just right, crunchy on the outside and light and fluffy on the inside. The herb salt is yum. On to mains, and we ended up sharing both the burger and the vindaloo. The burger is massive, a really nice bun loaded with a huge wagyu patty, cheese, lettuce and delicious pickles. No wonder this is a favourite. Then it was time for the vindaloo. Hot but not crazy – just enough spice to know you are eating an authentic Indian dish. Again, a big serve, especially with the roti and rice. It was a really lovely Friday night, sitting in front of the wood fire, listening to the rain and enjoying delicious, honest fare – with a glass or two. I think we might just become Cosmo regulars.
Words: Donna Kelly | Images: Contributed
Advertorial
Crossword 23
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24 Our history
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The unofficial history of...
T
HE series continues in May featuring the Daylesford Court House (now the Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre).
In collaboration with The Local, Alice’s Journeys Walking Tours will take you on a virtual unofficial history tour of the Daylesford Court House. To do this we need your help. If you’re cooped up at home during the COVID-19 crisis, when would be a better time to share some of your local memories with the community? In your own words, tell us about an interesting story or memory you have of an event you experienced at the Daylesford Court House. Events might include a fungi workshop with Alison Pouliot, or a court proceeding before the mid-1980s when the court was officially decommissioned. Tell us the year, how old you were and what this experience meant to you. We’ll publish selected stories here in TL and on our website www.alicesjourneys.com Thanks to Les Pitt’s Mud Blood & Gold...Daylesford the early years first published in 2016, here’s a court house story of note from the mid-1800s.
Words: Lynda Poke Image: Contributed
Magistrate ‘court’ out According to Ann Baker, “all sorts” visited her in the local 1850s diggings - even the very magistrate across the bench formally asking if men called on her. Ann was a feisty character, one of the regular defendants at the local 1850s Daylesford courthouse. As a sex worker charged with prostitution she was not unlike many of the goldfields women moonlighting to earn a living. Back then a woman could not obtain a miner's licence so she’d have to be resourceful and find other ways to work. According to historian Claire Wright women quietly become the bedrock of gold-mining towns like Daylesford. What happened to Ann Baker? It’s a history mystery as to whether her client Magistrate Daly let her go that day. Did you also know William Stanbridge, the first Mayor of Daylesford was also a local magistrate, JP and state member of Parliament? No conflict of interest there? Do you know about the rare architectural significance of the smiley-face design of the Court House built on the 1860s? Do you have a memory of the Daylesford Courthouse? Email: Lynda Poke at info@alicesjourneys.com
Your say I wonder who in BP and Shell sets the pricing Much of the language we employ around Anzac strategy for Daylesford? I wonder what the Day places emphasis on the concept of sacrifice, conversations are like, and who signs the deals off? the idea that the boys who served knowingly laid With unleaded at 99 cents a litre at the local down their lives to keep us safe. independent provider and $1.26 at Daylesford BP and Shell - one wonders why there isn’t a queue a few kilometres long to our local independent at Mobil. That bloke needs a gold star. At times like these - and with all the effort by corporates into positive corporate and social responsibility - who gets to decide what that looks like? From where I sit - you’re a good corporate if you respond quickly and drop prices to help all locals in the region who are impacted by COVID-19.
- Richard Butler, Hepburn The cartoon you published on page 21 of The Local (Issue 176) is inappropriate and contrary to the respectful representation of women that all, including community-focused media, should adhere to.
The reality was of course more complicated. Most of the young men spoke of peer pressure and an impulse to seek out an adventure in a faraway land. Most would Earnie’s magical brew, have known next to nothing about the origins of the it's very very good for you conflict. You’ll pick all your pertaters How many of us do today? Few if any would have as fast as roller skaters, had any notion of the grim realities of modern war; their drinking Earnies magical brew. only ideas derived from games and thrilling novels and Come drink Earnie’s magical brew, plays. it's very, very good for you When I pause on Anzac Day to consider the loss In your heart it's always sunny of these boys and men it is not sacrifice but waste that and disasters always funny, comes to mind. The way that simple country working drinking Earnie’s magical brew. class lads in far off Australia were used as pawns in a clash between empire builders. I live in hope that these are wiser times in which we - Bette McLaren, Trentham (A nod to Spudfest - held in May but cancelled this view the threats and jostling between the major powers year, of course. Drinking metho is not recommended. with a lot more cynicism. Even if Trump one day recommends it.)
- Pat Hockey, Clunes It is cartoons like this, seemingly 'harmless' and 'funny,' that reinforce gender stereotypes and inequalities that see women treated as small objects. Please think more carefully and critically about what you publish in the future. - Bonnie Learmonth, Musk
Boil up some tatie peels until they’re soft and mushy. Pour in some metho and stir it till it's slushy. Sweeten it with bootblack Dip in your tin and sing loud for...
Letters to the editor, short poems and musings are always welcome. Keep them to the point. Any letters addressed Dear Sir will be deleted. Email news@tlnews.com.au
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Recipes for a Mother's Day lockdown Sweet and savoury! Belgian Lemon Teacake 1 cup self-raising flour ½ cup caster sugar 60 gm butter 1 egg (lightly beaten) Filling: ½ cup lemon juice ½ cup sugar 60 gm butter (chopped) 1 egg (lightly beaten) Pre-heat oven to 180 degrees. Brush shallow 17cm cake tin with oil or melted butter and line base with baking powder. Sift flour and add caster sugar, add butter and rub with fingers until it resembles breadcrumbs. Mix in beaten egg. (I usually just put all ingredients into a food processor and pulse until soft dough is formed). Combine all filling ingredients in small pan and stir constantly over low heat until thick. Press 2/3 of dough over base of pan. Pour hot filling over base. Break remaining dough into flat discs and place over filling. (There might be gaps but don’t worry about them). Bake for 30 minutes and allow to cool in tin.
Courtesy of Cathy Wagner of Musk. (Please note, the photo is not a Belgian Lemon Teacake - but it looks good.) Pumpkin and sweet potato soup Ingredients 250 gm pumpkin peeled and cut into cubes 250 gm sweet potato peeled and cut into cubes 1 small onion, chopped 1 tablespoon butter 4 chicken stock cubes 1/2 teaspoon each of ground pepper and sugar Pinch of ground mixed spice 300 ml milk 1/4 cup cream Method Place vegetables, butter, stock cubes and 300ml water in a saucepan and boil until vegetables are tender. Puree soup in blender, add pepper, sugar, mixed spice, milk and cream and blend gently together until smooth. Return to pan and reheat for about five minutes (do not boil, or the cream will curdle). Courtesy of the CWA and Peta Heyne
Do you have a recipe to share? Email donna@tlnews.com.au #keepingthecommunityconnected
Recipes 25
26 Opinion
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Pick me, pick me
Just sayin’... By Donna Kelly
I
KNOW Kyle has written about Mother's Day - because I have already read his column.
But I would like to acknowledge my own mum - the good and well, you know. Mum always wanted four children and after a slow start off the blocks, during which time she hated being asked "When are you going to start a family?" and dad hated being asked "Aren't you doing it right, Jack?", she got what she wanted. Two boys, two girls, all two years apart. Like many women of her era she gave up working when she got married to "look after the family". Which she did pretty well. Funny what you remember about growing up. Being woken up at 4am, dressed in a thick home-knitted jumper and bundled into the car for a trip to Queensland every couple of years in August, being picked up from primary school and taken home, via the milk bar, for a one-on-one sausage roll and sauce lunch, holding mini-exhibitions of artworks pinned on bedroom walls - and charging an entry fee. Then there's having my school skirt hem sticky-taped up, in front of a friend, having my tangled freshly-washed hair brushed so hard I am sure the neighbours thought I was being strangled, and putting up with a chain-smoking mother - despite having asthma. In later years we became more friends, especially as Mum decided that when I moved to Japan for a few years she would come for a visit - for eight weeks! And then another four, and then another six. FFS. In a unit that had a tiny lounge that turned into a bedroom via a futon, you had to be friends. Then, when I met Kyle, I think Mum felt a little threatened by this new best friend of mine, declaring one day "I know he's good looking but I don't think he's the right one". Twenty-six years later she tells me she is pleased I have found a soul mate who is not only kind but also fun. I would throw in sexy and handsome - but I know when I read this to Kyle he will ask me to edit that out. Hmmm. It's still here. Anyway, I give Mum a call most days, especially in this strange iso life, and we talk about important and not so important things. It's good to hear her laugh, even if it's just because she stuffed up making a boiled egg the other day - I kid you not. Apparently she does not like boiled eggs and has never cooked one before. No time like a pandemic to expand your cooking repertoire! Mum's 88 in June (she will kill me for saying that) and our gift is a Zoom meeting if she can work out her iPad. But she's already got a handle on Facebook and emails, so I reckon she will do OK. Next year we will do something better. A show, a stay in Melbourne...and maybe gather, drink some wine and remember the strange old 2020 Mother's Day. Just sayin'...
Hey there, I am Tommy. I am two years old and a big boy with a big personality. My first love is food - and then affection. I am very well adjusted and would adapt to most households. Even if I do say so myself. So, call MAAWS and come and pick me! MC#956000012199003 Mount Alexander Animal Welfare is in Castlemaine. Call first on 5472 5277. (Pick me, pick me is run in memory of Rosie and Curly we picked them!)
The Local - Connecting the Community
T
he Local is all about Connecting the Community. We run good news stories about amazing people and places, and festivals and events. And our fantastic advertisers run great deals for locals and visitors alike.
To give back to the community, The Local has been running its Connecting the Community adverts for five years. The adverts are for mostly for not-for-profit groups and organisations - which is most of us these days - to lend a hand when finances can be a bit tight - or just don't exist. We all know how hard it can be to make volunteer-run organisations work on the smell of an oily rag! To apply just email donna@tlnews.com.au with your event or organisation. We also put call-outs on our Facebook page and those of the various communities in our wonderful region. We work on a first-in basis, with a nod to time-lines too. There are a few conditions, well mostly that you aren't grabbing a free advert and then we see a whacking big paid advert in other media. That wouldn't be fair.
Cheers, Donna (Ed)
Keeping busy - and arty! COVID-19 and the flow-on has brought about a stressful time for everyone. On the Woodend Art Group's Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ Woodend-Art-Group, we have highlighted creative activities for both adults and children. For example, Ken Done offers free online teaching for kids and MoMA has free online art courses. All details on FB page.
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Kyle’s Rant
Opinion 27
Mother's Day giveaway
W
ELL, it's Mother's Day coming up and time to reflect on my mother who didn't exactly make it into the Barnardos Mother of the Year, but she did her best.
I have actually just reconnected with her, albeit on social media for the time being, after a 10-year hiatus. The original fallout was over something I cannot even remember, and the reconnection came as a result of the current pandemic. I guess that just proves what happens in adversity. I have a lot of great memories of my mother as a young boy. One special memory came in the form of a letter to my school, banning me from blood-sports. The thing was I went to a school which had a 10 per cent ratio of white (pakeha) kids with the rest of the student population made up of Maori and Pacific Islander origin. There was no racism that I remember except for my nickname “Honk” short for honkey, but that was about it, we were all just kids. But the thing with these young men compared to a little white boy is that they tend to mature a lot quicker and become very solid units at a much earlier age. This was difficult on the rugby field where they would see you down the field and just smile as they built up a head of steam and then came thundering down the pitch, connecting with a resounding crunch and pile-driving my little pakeha head into the mud. So, it was Mum to the rescue with a get-out-of-jail-free card with a letter from the doctor which stated I had a bleeding disorder in the form of Von Willebrand disease. This, I discovered as an adult, was not exactly fact but it literally saved my neck, so thanks Mum. Speaking of mums, I was watching a piece on TV where mums were “zooming” in to say what their little tykes were planning for the day, and behind the images was that spiky red blob bouncing from side to side of the screen, yes the dreaded COVID-19 molecule. WTF! Every time the news is on, on most major channels, this stupid red bloody image with the horrible molecule bounces around in the background. Yes newsrooms, we understand we have a pandemic going on so there is no need to remind us all day, every day. Please take the stark reminder graphic down! Anyway, happy Mother's Day rant over…
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AULT owners Jodi Flockhart and Damien Aylward, and their children Lilly and Max, have a $150 voucher up for grabs to help make someone's Mother's Day extra special.
Jodi said the voucher could be used at a future date to enjoy a meal at the beautiful Sailors Falls property. For the chance to win, tell us in 25 words or less why your mum needs something to look forward to when the world returns to normal. Email donna@tlnews.com.au by noon, Friday, May 8. The winner will be notified on the same day at 5pm - in plenty of time for Mother's Day. Good luck!
PALMER STEVENS & RENNICK Barristers & Solicitors Property and Conveyancing Criminal Law Family Law Wills and Estates Commercial Law Employment Law Appearing in Castlemaine Court PLEASE CONTACT US
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7 acres of well organised, easy to navigate, recycled goodness in the heart of castlemaine.
Salvage Yard
Structural timbers, hundreds of doors and windows, landscaping timbers, ex-commercial double glazed glass, steel, masonry and found objects... right down to hard to find hardware and homewares! Now also supplying a range of small production, sustainably sourced new timbers for flooring, decking, overlay and cladding. Also, manufacturers of custom designed engineered trusses from recycled timbers. 6 Lewis Drive Castlemaine • 0435 500 112 • www.thesalvageyard.com.au
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Pota-toes part of Trentham potato harvest
T 1860s.
RENTHAM'S 2020 Spudfest might have been cancelled but it takes more than a global pandemic to stop Trentham’s harvest of the 30 or so potato varieties which have been grown in the district since the
And some stunning spuds are being unearthed. The Denis and Alison Walsh family, one of the local families who have been growing Trentham potatoes since the gold rush, dubbed this nicola spud, pictured right, and below left, as “Pota-toes” when they dug it up this week. The giant spud is destined to become gnocchi. Trentham Spudfest was due to be held on Saturday, May 2. The annual event draws more than 3000 visitors to the town.
Words: Peter Young | Images: Alison Walsh
The Local - weekly in print and online at www.tlnews.com.au Read an historical tourist publication here
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May 4, 2020 Issue 178 “Pota-toes”
The Local - The Heart of the Highlands
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EMPLOYMENT
In Memoriam
Sales/Advertising A casual position is available for a Sales person to join the team at the Moorabool News. Due to the COVID-19 restrictions it is a work from home/office position, whilst adhering to the current regulations. Must be self-motivated, dedicated, strong will to succeed. Possibility of 2-4 working days on base salary and commission. Please forward your cover letter and resume to: sales@themooraboolnews.com.au Successful applicants will be contacted for an interview.
In Memoriam
BOTHERAS, Olive Annie
BOTHERAS, Olive Annie
1/8/1922 - 6/5/2019
1/8/1922 - 6/5/2019
Dearly loved, so sadly missed.
To hear your voice and see your smile, To sit and talk to you a while, To be together in the same old way, Would be our greatest wish today.
Mum of Mary and Phil. Grandma of Travers and Tracey, Nathan and Jacqueline, Briana and Liam. Great-Grandma of Tylar, Kyiah, Rhyce, Mia, Isla, Ruby, Ivy, Conor, Gemma, Ella and Milly.
Loved Mum, Grandma and GreatGrandma to Joan and Campbell, Christopher, Trevor and Gabrielle, Andrew and Nicole - and their families.
In our hearts forever.
For Sale Gas log fire. Ec. Bottle or natural gas. $1500 ono. Contact: 0400 895 955
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Wishing all the mums Happy Mother's Day, Sunday, May 10. From the crew at The Local xxx