Midland Express Tuesday September 7 2023

Lions win back to back

Harcourt's senior footballers claimed back-toback premiership honours in the Maryborough Castlemaine District Football Netball League at Princes Park Maryborough on Saturday.

The Lions triumphed over Carisbrook by 11 points to claim the title, capping off an incredible undefeated 2023 season.

It was abig day forthe Harcourt club with the Lions 17 &Under, 15 & Under and 13 & Under netballers also completing aclean sweep in their games to all claim their respective premiership cups. Photo: Lisa Dennis

For the complete wrap up of MCDFNL grand final action, see page 39.

Bill West

Pandemonium reigned as spectators surged onto the Romsey netball courtafter Woodend-Hesket secured ahistory making first-everA-grade premiershiponSunday

The grand final between the Hawks and Riddell wasthe show stealer across the board in the Riddell League’s2023 finalsseries.

Remarkably,four matches (netball andfootball) were decidedinextratimeacross the finals –something that hasnever happened before.

It’sasafe bet thatWoodend-Hesket celebrations will be continuingthisweek, andrightly so.

The Riddell League’snetballand media manager,Grace Bibby, said the netball competition hadgone to another level with the quality of play thisyear

Continued page 42.

Woodend-Hesket secured ahistory making first-ever A-grade premiership on Sunday.

Art and industry collide

An eye-catching muraldepicting three yellow-tailed blackcockatoos is pulling focus for all theright reasons at Kyneton Business Park.

Standing nine metres tall and25metres wide, themural backs ontoa building in anew development and was both started and completedlast week.

Developer GeorgeMercieca commissioned the piece as partofhis permit conditions for the build.

"It will be agood attraction for the town

and we'rehopeful it may encourage others to do thesame," he said.

MacedonRanges ShireCouncil guidelines stipulatedthat theimage needed to be "significant to thelocal Kyneton communityand resonatebroadly among residents".

Mr Mercieca said the yellow-tailed black cockatoo was the star of the piece as they were local to the area but he understood they were becoming rarer in sightings at some locations around Australia.

"They're absolutely beautiful and it's nice to have them captured here," he said.

Macedon Ranges Shire Council’sbiodiversity projects officer Tanya Loos said it was adelight to see the bird featured.

“The yellow-tailed black cockatoo is a much-loved bird with its slow bouncing wingbeats and mournful ringing cry,and an integral part of the tall forests of the Macedon Ranges Shire," she said.

"These birds live for 100 years or more, and rely on very large old trees for their nesting hollows. We are delighted to see this iconic species featured in the Kyneton Business Park mural.”

The artist behind the work is Gippsland-

based Simon White,who has painted murals around the country including some of the much-loved Victorian silo trials. He has apassion for capturing wildlife, Australiana and war murals in his art.

"I just hope the locals of Kyneton love it –they seemtosofar," he said.

Local residents have already been inspecting the artwork and showing their appreciation. Some even beeping their horns in support as they drive by

"There'snothing quite like this around the area so Ihope it draws it bit of interest," Mr White said.

Amy Hume

Artist Simon White is pictured at work on the Kyneton mural

Lancefield Show is celebrating the region'sproduce with anew 'Paddock to Plate Picnic' addition this year

Patrons can soak in the sun with local wines, ciders, beers, cordials and drinks available, alongside aspecially sourced grazing box, while listening to live music from local artists including Jarrod Shaw

"The idea is that people can some and enjoy what some of the beautiful produce the region has to offer," said Montana Oliver, Lancefield Show Committee member

The show returns on Sunday,October 15,following three years of cancellations due to the pandemic and natural disasters.

The day promises fun for the whole family with many crowd

favourites making areturn including the dog high jump, craft pavilion, poultry,sheep, horse events, and camel rides.

Huge attractions also include the tractor pull, wood chop, working dog trials and megafauna celebrations.

There will also be food trucks, plenty of entertainment for children, skate and scooter competition, inflatable and mechanical rides and show bags.

Demonstrations and talks this year include new presenters, Woodend Bee Friendly Society and Chin Chin Farm, alongside those who have attended past shows.

Join in the show fun at Lancefield Park on Sunday,October15, from 9am to 4pm.

Festival gets funding

Hepburn'snext Chillout Festival will be boosted by $50,000 from the state government’sRegional Events Fund.

The event is Australia’spremier regional LGBTIQ+ arts and cultural festival, held annually in Daylesford and Hepburn Springs.

ChillOut Festival 2024 will be the 27th iteration of the festival, making it Australia’s oldest and longest running regional queer

festival, now attracting 28,000+ visitors and filling accommodation and restaurants in the region.

To be held from March 7toMarch 11 2024 (Labour Day Weekend), the festival is made up of over 55 diverse activities and events, including visual arts, live music, comedy,cabaret, parties, sport, social events and public forums.

Lancefield’s Nicole Morton with young Lara and Angus Whitty, and Lancefield Show Committee member Montana Oliver with canine pal Olly, are preparing for the excitement of the show.

Co-operativelooks to take next step

Lisa Dennis

Acrowd of about 50 community members turned out to the public meeting convened by the newly formed Castlemaine Community Co-operative at Castlemaine Town Hall on Wednesday night.

The co-operative aims to set up adedicated not-for-profit organisation with the goal of purchasing Castlemaine’shistoric building ‘The Hub’ and retaining its tenants many of which have asustainability,community health or wellbeing focus and the community garden.

The meeting aimed to gauge the broader community interest in the concept and whether there was enough support to progress the project.

Interested local residents were welcomed by co-founder and local economist Warwick Smith who outlined how the initiative began and the work undertaken to reach that point.

Mr Smith said the co-operative was formed by alike-minded group of local residents who were concerned The Hub’scommunity benefit would be at risk if it was purchased by acommercial investor

The co-operative will enable community ownership of the building, on the corner of Barker and Templeton Streets, through collective investment with the group needing to raise around $2M to make the project areality

The intention is to preserve the current tenancies, keep rents affordable, keep the community garden thriving, and potentially reinvest in growing community wealth or future projects such as affordable housing.

Under the current proposal, members buy and own shares for the amount they invest. The goal of member investment is always community wealth not individual profit but the group have budgeted to pay apotential four per cent return to investors.

Co-founder Mark Esparza said he spent 20 years running restaurants in Okinawa, Japan, and saw many small businesses close their doors as foreign corporate investors

Council news

bought up properties, and subsequently,the island had lost much of its unique identity and heart. He said he did not want to see Castlemaine and acommunity asset such as The Hub suffer the same fate.

The group has explored anumber of options for the potential structure of the co-operative and member investment. Their next step is to consult with co-operative law

Join our Public Art Advisory Panel

Areyou, or someone youknow, passionate about public art?

Join our Public Art Advisory Panel!

We’relookingfor community members who arepassionate about the futureofpublic art in ourshire.

Thepanel will represent the aspirations and needs of the community.Theywill also support Council in ensuring the integrity andquality of permanent publicart.

EOIs close on Sunday29October

Find out more at shape.mountalexander.vic.gov.au.

Employment opportunities

Building Inspector –Fulltime

Applications close at 9.00am on Monday25September

Forpositiondescriptions and morejob opportunitiesvisit mountalexander.vic.gov.au/Work-with-us.

Upcoming Council meeting

ThenextCouncil meeting is on Tuesday19September,6.30pm. Watchatyoutube.com/c/MountAlexanderShireCouncil.

Working together for ahealthy,connected shire mountalexander.vic.gov.au (03) 5471 1700

experts and choose the best option.

This consultation could cost as much as $15,000 therefore the founders are now seeking expressions of interest from community members who may like to contribute to the future co-operative.

To find out more about the project or submit an expression of interest, visit castlemaine.coop

Local economist Warwick Smith greets community members at the Castlemaine Community Co-Operative public meeting on Wednesday

Photo: Allie Hanly

Take apeek behind thedoor

Castlemaine Community House is holding its first ever Open House and Garden today (September 19) and invites community members to pay them avisit!

CCH community development manager Kerrily 'Kez' Jennings said they were throwing open the gates, doors and spaces for all to come explore.

"We’ll have abunch of displays,activitiesand people chatting about their courses and services for people of all ages and stages," Kez says.

Ever thought of volunteering, or doing acoursewith CCH? Go along and ask all your questions!

The day will include artwork displays, the chance to try yoga or belly dancing, aperformance by the Blenders in the acoustic stairwell, Community Kitchen Garden tours and lots more.

Visitors can partake in the barbecue (meat and vego options available), grab acoffee from the CCH kitchen and discover more about their barista training courses.

The event will be on from 10am –1pm at the Community House at 30 Templeton Street, Castlemaine.

Celebrate asenior

To celebrate the Victorian Seniors Festival 2023, Macedon Ranges Shire Council will present 'celebration boxes' to 25 older residents in the shire who have made significant contributions to the community People are encouraged to nominate an older person who has made apositive difference in the Macedon Ranges or has inspired them in some way to acknowledge their achievements.

Nominees will be considered on the basis of their contribution to the local community,how they demonstrate active ageing and promote apositive image of older people.

Examples may include contributions to a

Fatal crash

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding afatal car crash in Lyonville on Saturday evening.

It is believed avehicle was travelling along Daylesford-Trentham Road when the driver lost control and crashed into atreejust after 5pm.

The male driver and sole occupant of the vehicle died at the scene.

The circumstances surrounding the crash are yet to be established and the investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with dashcam footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make areport online at: crimestoppersvic.com.au

Birdwalk

Join bird enthusiast and Macedon Ranges Shire Council'sbiodiversity project officer, Tanya Loos, along Gisborne'sJacksons Creek for an hour with the birds.

This hour-long walk is an introduction to identifying birds and using Birdata to record sightings.

Bird walks will be run every third Thursday of the month from the car park of the Gisborne Administration Centre. There is no cost to take part.

Upcoming walks include: September 21, 9am-10am, October 19, 9am-10am, and November 16, 9am-10am.

community groups, family life or work, keeping mentally and physically active, making a difference to the environment, or even as a volunteer champion.

Residents of the Macedon Ranges Shire aged over 65 (or Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged over 50) are eligible to be nominated.

Celebration boxes will be presented at an event on October 20 at the Kyneton Mechanics Institute.

Nominations close Sunday October 1. To submit anomination or find out more about the presentation event, visit: mrsc.vic.gov.au/Seniors-Festival or call 5422 0333.

Castlemaine Community House manager Martyn Shaddick and CCH community development manager Kez Jennings encourage community members to come and explore everything the house has to offer and enjoy aperformance by the Blenders in the acoustic stairwell.

LauristonHallisagain featuring an outstanding musical evening for locals and visitors with brilliant duo, The Weeping Willows, on October 7.

The Weeping Willows (Laura Coates and Andrew Wrigglesworth) are an acoustic, folk-laced, country-tinged duo. They have been described as “a couple of old souls, steeped in bluegrass tradition and draped in gothic Americana imagery”.

Reviews from their tours of America, UK and Europe attest to their wonderful performances and their ‘sublime’ songwriting.

LauraCoates is avocalist of outstanding ability and Andrew Wrigglesworth’sguitar playing is out of this world. Their vocal

The Weeping Thhe Weeepiing Willows at Wiilllows LauristonHall L

Lauriston Hall

harmonies are spine-tingling, rich, warm and strong.

The Weeping Willows took out the 2021 CMAA Golden Guitar for Instrumental of the Year and have picked up 10 Golden Guitar nominations to date. They were awarded Best Country Act at the 2021 Music Victoria awards and Duo/Group of the Year at the 2021 Australian Folk Music Awards. Lauriston Hall is located eight kilometres from Kyneton.

Tickets $35 at www.trybooking.com/CKYXI Table seating and awarm, friendly atmosphere. Bar available orBYO. BYO snacks. Teaand coffee provided.

Enquiries 0400 526 166.

Tree to go

Macedon Ranges Shire Council undertook tree removal works on an unsafe pin oak tree in Honour Avenue at Macedon last week. The tree removal comes after acouncil contractor discovered asplit in the trunk that indicated internal decay

To ensure public safety,the tree was temporarily braced until aproper assessment could be arranged. An independent arborist assessment was conducted on August 31to advise if the tree could be retained dueto its significance from aheritage perspective.

The assessment confirmed the decay to be too severe and arecommendation was made to remove it within two weeks, citing the potential risks tothe communityand nearby properties.

As the tree is heritage-listed, Heritage Victoria has been consulted regarding its removal. Following the removal of the tree and its stump, areplacement tree will be planted within 30 days, subject to availability

The Weeping Willows’ Laura Coates and Andrew Wrigglesworth.

Braemarplantsfor apurpose

Samantha Lisle and LucySykes, year eight, Braemar College

Term three has been busy for agroup of year eight students at Braemar College who worked in partnership with Newham Landcare to plant 180 indigenous plants at the school’s Woodend campus.

This project was apart of acommunity service initiative to replenish an area of the Cobaw Biolink.

Students got to work with Newham Landcare volunteers, Jim Sansom and Penny Roberts, who provided practical help and expertise, as well as donating plants to the cause.

The Cobaw Biolink is avital way of linking the Macedon Ranges to the Cobaw Ranges and is maintained by local landowners and landcare groups. It provides anetwork of wildlife habitats to encourage migration of native animals, birds and insects. Braemar’sboundary encompasses asection of the

October burn-offs encouraged

Atemporary burn-offexemption will be introduced throughout October to help landowners prepare their properties ahead of the fire season.

In consultation with local fire brigades, Macedon Ranges Shire Council will allow registered open-air burns on land 4000 square metres or less without apermit during October

The move aims to give landowners more opportunity to clear their property and minimise fire risk before the official Fire Danger Period starts.

Council CEO Bernie O’Sullivan encouraged landowners and residents to take advantage of the October exemption, to better protect their own properties and the shire more broadly in the event of a fire.

“It is vital that we all work together to avoid complacency and prepare as best we can amid an often unpredictable, everchanging climate,” he said.

“Council officers will be continuing our annual program of targeted mowing, slashing and roadside weed management as the weather starts to warm up.”

Property preparations ahead of the fire season should include slashing grass, removing any fine fuels, rubbish or materials likely to cause, maintain or promote afire, storing flammable liquids and materials away from the house, cleaning gutters and removing noxious weeds.

To assist residents with cleaning up their properties, green waste disposal is free at council resource recovery facilities for ratepayers and tenants in the Macedon Ranges.

Residents are also encouraged to make use of their FOGO bin, which is collected weekly

If burning off, landowners or residents must monitor weather conditions before starting any fire and must register their burn by calling 1800 668 511.

They are also encouraged to check for wildlife, minimise impact on neighbours, ensure sufficient fire suppression equipment is on site, and closely monitor burn-offs for at least seven days, to ensure they are fully extinguished.

From November 1, burning-off restrictions will revert back to the requirements under the Local Law 2023, whereby burning in the open air will be prohibited on land 2000 square metres or less, and apermit from council’sfire prevention officers will be required for burning offonland more than 2000 square metres and equal to or less than 4000 square metres.

For more information, visit mrsc.vic. gov.au/burning-off

Cobaw Biolink where the planting was introduced 14 years ago. By planting these trees and shrubs, students were contributing to developing different layers of the forest to provide habitat for a wider range of native species.

Although the Biolink is designed to regreen farmland, individuals living in towns can also contribute to the wellbeing of native species. Planting your garden with consideration to the native wildlife is an important step to take to maintain urban and suburban biodiversity

As acat owner herself, Braemar environmental captain Ella also urges pet owners to be responsible.

“A cat will kill, on average, 110native animals ayear,” Ella said.

“Keeping your pets safely inside can be one of the biggest steps you can take to maintaining ahealthy backyard ecosystem.”

Braemar College principal Russell Deer and environmental captains Max Cheeseman and Ella Middleton-Bruhn.

Help for social housing

The federal and state governments will each contribute $46 million to electrify and modernise social housing in Victoria.

Funding upgrades include reversecycle air conditioning, hot water heat pumps, electric cooktops and rooftop solar.These investments will decrease emissions, improve efficiency and allow Victorians on low incomes to more effectively heat and cool their homes.

Extension granted

Acontentious planning permit for seven units partially built in Castlemaine has just been extended for a further three years by Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

At least eight previous extensions have been granted over aperiod of about 20 years. AMacedon Ranges case was used by VCATtohelp justify afinding that the owner was not indulging in ‘warehousing’, with the VCAT member emphasising the difference between extending apermit to start, and extending to complete.

Mount Alexander Shire Council raised frustrations and concerns over the failure to complete the project, with extenuating reasons for only three months’ building work on site since 2020 being outlined. Alleged changes in planning policies were also put before the tribunal.

In herfather’sshadow

Afascinating new memoir by Castlemaine author Sandra Goldbloom Zurbo hit bookshelves across the country on September 1.

My Father’sShadow is amoving and wonderfully written account of Zurbo’scomplicated relationship with her father,controversial public figure, political organiser and activist, Samuel Mark Goldbloom.

Goldbloom was born in England in 1919 to a British mother and Russian Anglophile father.The family emigrated to Australia when he was three.

He was apassionate supporter of the Soviet Union, adedicated traditional Jew and aproud Australian who served as an air force engineer in World WarII. For all of his adult life he was apassionate anti-war and anti-racism campaigner

Goldbloom was the founding secretary of the Congress for International Cooperation and Disarmament, an active member of the Jewish Council to Combat Fascism and Anti-Semitism, and the inaugural secretary and full time organiser of the Vietnam Moratorium Campaign. He was also a covert member of the Communist Party

Zurbo told the Express her father had been her hero and nemesis all the days of his life.

From an early age, she adopted his political beliefs, becoming asupporter of the Soviet Union and an anti-war activist. In 1960, she travelled with him to apeace conference in Indonesia; two years later she went herself to another in Moscow, travelled from there to Leningrad, and then to ayouth festival in Helsinki. In Indonesia she met President Soekarno; at home the family greeted activists such as Paul Robeson and his anthropologist wife Eslanda, American paediatrician Dr Benjamin Spock, diplomat and suffragette Jesse Street, High Court judge and Labor leader HV Evatt and American biochemist Linus Pauling. In her adulthood, in her home office, she typed up aspeech for two North Korean conference delegates.

“Tosome it would seem an extraordinary upbringing, and my sisters and I, too, were sometimes awestruck by who we met, but they were really just part of the fabric of our lives so in away it wasn’t unusual,” Zurbo said.

But Zurbo said her dad could also be difficult and withholding.

“Like so many men of that era, Dad was rarely forthcoming about his feelings. They kept things close to their chest,” she said.

“As well, he had asharp backhand and was not always afaithful husband.”

Zurbo came to question aspects ofher father’sworldview.As the communist ideals of the Left were tested and faltered over the Soviet Union, the mood of the times gradually shifted. Many young people embraced the counterculture.

Working in the artistic swirl of Melbourne’sPram Factory andthe lively independent publishing scene, Zurbo absorbed ideas about women, family and Jewish culture that often led to disagreements with her father.When Goldbloom fell sick and hoped to end his suffering, his daughter’sdevotion underwent afinal test.

My Father’sShadow is aportrait of life on the Leftduring atime of great social change. Lyrical, sharply observed and affecting, it is acandid exploration of the fraught dynamics between father and daughter and, ultimately,the love that underlies them.

The book will be launched locally as part of asold out ‘Books in the Brewery’ event hosted by Northern Books at Shedshaker Brewing on September 26 where Zurbo will feature in conversation with fellow author Robyn Annear

Sandra Goldbloom Zurbo, who has written a memoir about her relationship with her late father, controversial public figure Samuel Goldbloom

Photo: Harry Nankin

B2Bodometer hits10years

Russell Purchase has just celebrated his 20th season and 10 years of popular Channel 31 series Bumper2Bumper

The Lancefield car enthusiast, known to fans as Rusty,began the series as apassion project and now at least 10,000 people tune in to the series on aThursday night.

It evolved after talking to colleagues with ashared interest in all things cars. Rusty floated the idea of atelevision series and soon after receiving enthusiasm, found himself contacting Channel 31 to make it areality

With no experience behind a camera, or in front of one, Rusty was about to become the star and producer of ashow to take his passion to awhole new level. In fact, it'sexactly what made him the perfect fit for such arole.

Audiences have enjoyed watching Rusty'sstyle and approach evolve over time.

They've watched him speed through interviews in Gone in 60 Seconds, rummage through gloveboxes in Rusty'sGlovebox and interview people about their pride and joy in Car Tell.

One segment that has grown along with its subjects over the years is Rusty'sRhymes. Afan favourite, it saw Rusty ending the day by reading nursey rhymes with acar twist to his daughter Ella before bedtime.

At the beginning of the series, Ella was about five years old. She'snow 17 and these days hears Rusty'sdad jokes instead.

Ella has remained connected to the show,now occasionally assisting her dad with production/ filming.

"Ella comes to alot of car shows. People have seen her growing up on B2B," Rusty said.

"People often recognise me and Ella, and say they love the show, and that'svery rewarding. It'smore about the passion for me."

Rusty works full-time in procurement and admits he's"more of an introvert outside of B2B" but attending car shows has enabled him to connect with like-minded people and share apassion.

B2B maintains agrassroots feel with various local car shows featured including shows at Hanging Rock, Lancefield, Romsey, Kilmore and Wallan. Rusty has

Roadworks at priority sites

Road safety infrastructure and upgrades have been earmarked for several high priority sites across the Macedon Ranges.

State government funding will support three Kyneton raised wombat crossings with 40km/h speed at New Street, Jennings Street and upgrading Epping Street's school crossing.

Raised wombat crossings with 40km/h speed are also planned for Riddells Creek at both Station Street and Sutherland Street, as well as one at Woodend's High Street service lane.

In Gisborne the funds will support raised wombat crossings with 40km/h speed at the Fisher/Aitken streets intersection, at Hamilton/Aitken streets, and upgrading the school crossing at Fisher Street outside Gisborne Primary School.

also travelled the state and further afield for car shows of interest.

The show has featured arange of makes and models from Australian Muscle Cars to hot rods and custom cars.

Heading into his next season, Rusty said his focus was now on producing abetter quality show, improving equipment and seeking sponsorship.

Local councils applied for funding to develop and deliver upgrades in areas or on sections of road that pose apedestrian safety risk in theircommunity.

The Safe System Pedestrian Infrastructure program aims to improve pedestrian safety across the state by investing in upgrades at locations where pedestrian crashes have been identified, or where there isahigh risk.

Rusty is gearing up for more seasons of Bumper2Bumper

For free, no obligation expertadvice on all workplace injuries, call our friendly team on (03) 5407 0161

TheCompost Conversation

–with Joel Meadows

Chop till you drop?

Imagine what it might be like being ahelpful microbe in a compost pile, building the proteins of your body from nitrogen-rich food scraps, getting energy for your work from the carbon-rich additions in the pile and all the while swimming on the film of moisture around these materials, breathing in oxygen and breathing out carbon dioxide.

If we dump abig bucket of chunky food scraps in our compost pile (that over-ripe watermelon in one big lump, five whole mouldy oranges, and three quarters of aloafofstale bread) we make things hard for our microbial friends.

Big lumps of dense, wet food will usually start to break down anaerobically (without oxygen) meaning we are feeding and encouraging the ‘wrong’ type of microbes in our pile that results in awful smells and greenhouse emissions into the bargain.

We can make the work of our friendly microbes so much easier by chopping up those big bits of scrap food we add to the pile.

When chopped up, these smaller pieces of nitrogen-rich food scraps, layered between generous helpings of leaves, straw and woody garden prunings, give our beneficial bacteria access to the balanced diet they need, and they will quickly start to process these into the compost we are wanting them to make.

The chopping assistance we offer our microbe friends can happen in the kitchen or the garden.

In the kitchen we can get into helpful habits, chopping up larger food scraps into smaller pieces before they go into our kitchen compost bucket or caddy.Ifyou contribute food scraps to YIMBY*, our composters love it when you take the time to do this!

If the chopping up has not happened in the kitchen, it needs to happen as the bucket/caddy is emptied and layered into your compost pile.

Some of our YIMBY* composters have found using amachete, abig old carving knife or aspade with asharp blade to be avery helpful tools to keep ready for breaking up larger food scraps as the compost is built and layered, carefully distributing them more evenly in each thin, nitrogen-rich layer

Swap tips at the Repair Cafe

Need help to wipe your ID from amobile or advice with settings? Bring it along to the next Castlemaine and Surrounds Repair Cafe on Sunday

Any problems with your Apple Mac? Tim mightbeable to help you.

Bring along broken household appliances and sewing repairs.

Join the Mending Circle and learn to darn, crochet, knit etc. or go along and swap tips. Learn basic bicycle maintenance.

Do you like to tinker with things? Maybe you could help with some repairs at the Cafe or help out with tea and coffee, reception table or chaperoning people to the repairers.

The Repair Cafe is on from 10am to 1pm on Sunday September 24 at the Castlemaine Community House, 30 Templeton Street. Enquiries to Chris on 5470 5508. Please leave messages clearly.Chris apologises, some people haven't had areturn call as their number wasn't clear enough.

It is not too much effort on our part to make our food scraps abit finer,and our microbial friends will reward our efforts with a less smelly and faster processing compost. It is asmall step that can help abig difference.

Next week have alookatour compost in our spring gardens. –JoelMeadows works with *Yes In My Back Yard, (YIMBY), a community-scale composting initiative in Castlemaine and surrounds. Send questions or comments to hello@yimbycompost.com

Matthias works on a bike

Akeg forgood

Shedshaker Brewing’sKeg for Good returns tonight raising money for Mount Alexander Animal Welfare.

For two nights, today September 19 and Wednesday September 20, all proceeds of sales of Shedshaker's popular pale ale at The Taproom at The Mill complex in Walker Street, Castlemaine, will go to MAAW, which provides an essential service to Castlemaine and surrounds.

MAAWpresident Steve Mann said the not-for-profit registered charity was delighted to partner with Shedshaker for Keg for Good and hoped they saw their animal-loving friends come along and support them as well as such a community-focused business.

Shedshaker Brewing director Jacqueline Brodie-Hanns said the Keg for Good initiative saw the Taproom put on a keg of pale ale and the money raised from those sales given to the nominated charity

“Welove our pets dearly and MAAWdoes afantastic job of housing animals in need and then finding them new homes," Ms Brodie-Hanns said.

“Having them as this month’srecipients of Keg for Good fits beautifully with our current exhibition, Dogs Are The Best People, which has brought together awide range of local artists who have created wonderful works featuring dogs."

To learn more about MAAW, visit: maaw.org.au

Community groups interested in being part of the Keg for Good program can email Shedshaker at: beer@shedshakerbrewing.com

MAAW team member Bec Farley, Shedshaker Brewing manager Adam Perrett, and MAAW pooch Griff encourage community members to get along and support the Keg for Good fundraiser and check out the dog-themed exhibition.

Celebrating20 years

LANCEFIELDANDDISTRICTFARMERSMARKETMARKSTHEMILESTONEWITHARE-VAMPEDLOOK

This month the Lancefield and District Farmers’ Market will be celebrating 20 years of trading by featuring anew market layout to give shoppers an easier market experience navigating the two full sections of the beautiful centre plantation of the High Street.

To make this transition easier for all concerned, amap is printed in today’spaper for you to cut out and take on your visit to the market this Saturday September 23 or on your next visit.

Market manager,Meggs Hannes said this move to create loosely dedicated areas in the market would be awelcome change for shoppers, especially over the warmer months.

“By parking nearby the post office, visitors to the market will be able to easily make purchases from their favourite fresh produce farmers and safely tuck those items in an Esky in their car before perusing the rest of the stalls for other items on their market visit.”

The centre road area of the market will now be dedicated to livestock and plants with an excellent selection on offer at the market’sbiggest ever trading day this Saturday

People who enjoy their special lunches at the market will be catered for with aseated lunch area nearby the Lions Kiosk, including live music. Thermomix demonstrations will also be held in this area at 10am and 11am with ‘Thermotess’.

The market will host 80-plus producers this month, half of which are primary producers based on the land. The other half is made up of artisan producers, directly supporting farmers with the products they lovingly create.

Warialda Belted Galloway Beef of Clonbinane have been attending the market since 2005 and farmer Lizette Snaith is keen to let her customers know that their multi-award winning aged beef will be available at the opposite end of the market as of this month.

All meat sellers will be trading from the western end to create more space for customers lining up for their popular products, making the lunch area amore relaxed space.

In other market news, Janina and Stan will be back with their sauerkraut and other fruity preserves and making her market debut this Saturday will be Tina Allen from Bespoke Preserves and Pantry with products proudly created in the commercial kitchen of the Lancefield Mechanics Hall. Tina will be serving up some of her delicious mocktails in the lunch area with other products like bliss balls and preserves. Lancefield’sPat Danko will also be back with community information about Landcare and wildlife for gardens for those wanting to get involved. Mike’sMussels will be theretoo and can be found at the western end with all other fresh produce.

The Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group’sWash Against Waste crew has an aim to create azero-wastemarketplace. Market management are seeking volunteers to keep this happening if you would like to help out.

As per usual, the market will welcome friendly dogs on aleash and provides free face paint for children.

Market organisers invite you to retain the map here on the opposite page, get your bags ready and come celebrate 20 years of trading from the region’sbest producers at the famous Lancefield and District Farmers Market this Saturday from 9am-1pm in High Street. This market is plastic bag free and is an initiative of the Lancefield Neighbourhood House. More information, contact Meggs, market manager,on0493 452 757.

A drawcard for r refugee family fun

Dozens of refugee families from the city were among those enjoying the fun of Kyneton’sannual Daffodil Festival parade and fair

The visitors, many of them children and parents from Myanmar who now live in the Pakenham to Springvale area, were guests of the Macedon Ranges Rural Australians for Refugees.

They were treated to abarbecue lunch prepared by the RAR sub-group, which promotes connections between refugees and the local Macedon Ranges community.Halal meats were generously donated by Hardwicks of Kyneton.

“Our fundraising has enabled us to financially support the Springvale Friends of Refugees for many years now,but this event was about fun not funds,” said MRRAR chairperson Jean Ker Walsh.

“The kids especially seemed to have agood time. They are aterrific group. We have enjoyed opportunities to visit them and were keen to return the hospitality

“Karen Pierce and her group put it in aconcerted effort to make it aspecial day for everyone. We were delighted that so many wanted to make the day trip. And we hear they are keen to come back next year.”

The visitors also brought delicious foods to make it an abundant lunch in the Botanic Gardens –which was shared spontaneously with agroup of Chinese visitors also enjoying the gardens and festival day out in Kyneton.

The Macedon Ranges Rural Australians for Refugees hosted refugee families from Melbourne at apicnic in the Kyneton Botanic Gardens.

Castlemaine Secondary College is flying high after the recent success of their Symphony Orchestra at the Victorian Schools' Music Festival at the Hawthorn Performing Arts Centre.

CSC was the only non-selective public school and regional public school to compete in the Open Symphony Orchestra section of the elite competition, which predominately featured private schools from across the state.

CSC music coordinator Ben Nieuwkerk said it had been some years since the school had taken part in such acompetition and they were thrilled to place second in their section.

Mr Nieuwkerk said the orchestra of 31 students ranging from Year 8-Year 11 performed performed arrangements of major orchestral works including Felix Mendelssohn’s Nocturne from AMidsummer Night’s Dream and Amicare Ponchielli’s Dance of the Hours.

and impressed the judges against stiff competition.

The music coordinator said the feat was even more impressive given the orchestra was only formed 12 months ago at the school's annual music camp.

"We have been meeting for weekly hour-long practices in the time since and prepared anumber of pieces especially for the event," he said.

"The students were very nervous going into the event as it has been sometime since we had attended acompetition and there were some fantastic performances. But they did an amazing job."

CSC Year 11 student and orchestra member Boris said he performed percussion at the event on the triangle and suspended cymbal.

"It was areally good experience to compete against all the private school bands. It was really fun. We were pretty pumped up after the concert. I've been doing music since primary school but I've never been part of

an event like this before," Boris said.

Boris had double the success also being part of the successful band 'Fryer' at the recent Mount Alexander Shire Battle ofthe Bands competition at the Theatre Royal. The lead singer helping his group to astandout performance.

Fellow Year 11 student Asha has been playing violin for two years and was also proud to bepart of the award winning orchestra.

"I was nervous, but the feedback we received was great. It was great to get the silver," she said.

Mr Nieuwkerk thanked the music staff for their tireless efforts assisting the students to prepare for the competition including Elisabeth Anderson, Heather Cummin, Wendy Laidler and Jane Dimsey.

Students are now focusing on preparations for the upcoming Spring Concert. Details on that event will be released soon.

Wasteland: Treasures of the Goldfields

Renowned artist Colin Mowbray presents the immersive mixed media exhibition

Wasteland: Treasures of the Goldfields at Castlemaine's Lot19 arts space this month.

This innovative showcase intertwines photography with discarded materials like stone, metal, ceramic, and wood, blurring the lines between image and sculpture.

Mowbray's captivating photographs narrate stories of waste in the untamed bushland of Central Victoria. Found objects and waste gain new life as art, sparking contrasts between refuse and natural beauty, inviting reflection.

Colin Mowbray extends the exhibition's impact to Castlemaine's streets with captivating street art installations, aiming to engage the community in conversations about waste and environmental responsibility.

The exhibition's coreintention is to address littering issues within local bushlands, fostering dialogue about waste disposal practices, toxic materials, and community engagement. Mowbray's lens captures the intricate complexities of waste-related challenges.

Wasteland: Treasures of the Goldfields initiates adialogue that challenges perceptions, embracing diverse aspects such as culture, socioeconomics, environmental stewardship, and governmental responses.

Wasteland: Treasures of the Goldfields features at Lot 19 until this

The exhibition at the Langslow Street gallery can be viewed weekends 11am-4pm until September 24.

Sunday.

The Castlemaine Secondary College Symphony Orchestra won silver at the Victorian Schools’ Music Festival.

Q: A:

E p t

HowdoIknowifIhavealow HomeLoanrate?

HomeLoanvariableratescommence around5.69%.Thereareconditions attachedwhenbanksofferlowinterest ratesthough. Theconditionsmaybethatyourloanis onlyalowpercentageofthevalueof yourproperty,orthebankmayhavefees whentheyofferalowrate Callusandwecanchataboutthe optionsavailable.

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A:

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Yes.AworkertoentitledtomakeaWorkCover claimforbenefitsiftheirworkhasbeen asignificantcontributingfactortothe recurrence,aggravation,acceleration, exacerbationordeteriorationofapre-existing injury.Benefitsmayincludemedicaltreatment, lossofearningsandlumpsumcompensation. Ifyou’vebeeninjuredatwork,contact GraingerLegaltoarrangeafreenoobligation appointmenttodiscussyourpotential entitlements

CallCarolineGraingerat: GraingerLegal

1/40ForestSt.Castlemaine Phone54070161 www.graingerlegal.com.au

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A: Movinghomecanbeastressfulexperience

Planyourmoveatleast4-6weeksin advancewherepossible.Prepareatimeline andbudgetforthemoveandifusinga removalist,bookinassoonaspossible. Packoneroomatatime,labellingboxesas yougoandleaveessentialsuntillast. ConsiderusingaLifestyleManagerto manageyourcompletemove.Wecanassist youto

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We understand that it can be quite distressing for parents and caregivers when their child is unwell. We believe that children should be assessed fairly promptly and encourage parents /caregivers to contact our clinic if theyare concerned about their child’ssymptoms. We will make surethat youspeak with one of our nurses and that your child can be seen by aGP on the day-just makeour receptionteam awareofyour concerns. Please remember, if it’sanemergency,always call 000. Dr Jilly Gallagher

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Find a feathered friend

tourist ist

Kyneton and District Poultry Club is hosting another Helmsman style auction in October following the success of its April event

Once again up to 400 pens of poultry will be up for sale from young pullets and cockerels to older hens and roosters

There will also be an excellent selection of fertile eggs for sale

A Helmsman auction is a lowpressure auction method like a ‘silent action’

From 10am you may register as a buyer for a mere $2

On the day each pen of poultry has a card attached, including details of the birds for sale, their breed, approximate age, seller name and reserve price

Between 10am and 1pm you can peruse the shed at your leisure When you find the birds you want, you simply write your bid on the card

At 1pm all is revealed with the highest bids being declared by the stewards All negotiations are ween the buyer and seller d are usually in cash

The club will have many wards around the shed o would be more than willg to assist with advice on he day

There will also be a affle, club merchandise for ale and a sausage sizzle all morning

The auction will be held on Sunday, October 15, in the Poultry Pavilion, Kyneton Agricultural Showgrounds, Mollison Street, Kyneton

Pictured is Tyler Parry

Prompt forsheep owners

Agriculture Victoria is reminding people to manage wool length of sheep to avoid health problems in their sheep.

Livestock welfare compliance program manager Dr Sarah Chaplin said sheep with more than one year’swool growth were highly susceptible to heat stress and disease.

Those with over-long fleeces are also more likely to become cast -lying on their side and unable to rise.

"Under (animal cruelty) regulations, apersonmust not allow the fleece of a sheep to grow to alength greater than twice the average annual growth for the breed of sheep or more than 250mm (whichever is shorter)," Dr Chaplin said.

Dr Chaplin said most sheep producers undertook shearing annually and wouldn’t have issues complying with this requirement.

"Sheep with excessive fleece length are at increased risk of heat stress, becoming cast and serious animal health issues such as flystrike.

"This regulation applies to anyone responsible for sheep, including sheep kept for commercial or hobby reasons. Anybody who owns or is in charge of sheep can befined for having sheep with excessive wool growth," she said.

For further information regarding sheep health and welfare visit the Agriculture Victoria website, call 136 186 or consult with Animal Health and Welfare staffatyour local Agriculture Victoria office.

Anyone wishing to make aspecific complaint regarding livestock welfare should contact Agriculture Victoria on 136 186 or aw.complaint@agriculture.vic.gov.au

Throwing aline to clubs

Angling clubs and associations are encouraged to apply for grants of up to $10,000 in the Stronger Fishing Clubs Grant Program.

Grants are available through the program to help strengthen and increase club membership, and to promote participation in recreational fishing. Applications for round one of the program close on December 6.

Projects eligible for funding include events that provide recreational fishing tuition for women, multicultural groups, First Nations peoples and all-abilities, alongside open days, training and events, and guest speaker nights.

Projects involving IT upgrades, website development, clubroom improvements, and equipment that will benefit all members are also eligible for funding.

To apply online, visit: vfa.vic.gov.au/strongerfishingclubs

Early years surveyopens

Hepburn Council is conducting an early years survey to understand how parents and caregivers currently access early years services in in the shire ahead ofupcoming reforms.

The ‘Best Start, Best Life’ reforms for Early Childhood providers includes: making kindergarten free for three and four-year

olds in participating services across Victoria, transitioning four-year-old kindergarten to ‘Pre-Prep’, and establishing 50 government-owned and affordable childcare centres across Victoria.

The survey is open until October 20 and can be accessed online, via: participate.hepburn.vic.gov.au

Teeoff foralocal cause

Wooling Hill Memorial Estate is hosting acommunity charity golf day for Kyneton Health on Sunday,October 22

Theevent at Kyneton Golf Club will be amixed four-person Ambrose competition –which means golfers of all skill levels will be able to contribute as part of ateam.

“Weknow how much the Macedon Ranges community love their local health service so we’re hosting this fundraiser to ensure that the hospital has what they need to continue providing amazing care to those in need," event host Troy Upfield said.

For anyone that hits ahole-in-one, there’sa prize of $1000 thanks to Diamonds from Ashes or Hair,Algordanza, Australia. The event will also award prizes to the winning team and in-comp game winners as well as aprize for the best-dressed team.

Central Highlands Rural Health CEO Maree Cuddihy said she was thrilled that Troy and Liddy from Wooling Hill Memorial Estate were continuing to support Kyneton Health with their fundraising events.

"It is such abeautiful country golf course at Kyneton Golf Club and we are grateful to the committee for assisting with the day.We hope that many locals and visitors sign up to play or sponsor the charity event,” she said.

Teams can sign up to play on the day and sponsors can also support the fundraising event.

For details, visit: chrh.org.au/kyneton-golf-day or sign up via: trybooking.com/CKUJI Direct any enquiries to Kathryn via: giving@chrh.org.au or0439 705 039.

Masha springs into sanctuary

One of Edgar's Mission's tiniest kid goat rescues, Masha, is one of spring's delightful arrivals

At just two days old, things were looking grim for the abandoned goat but she found a new home at the Lancefield animal sanctuary

“Masha would have to be one the teeny, tiniest baby goats who has passed through our sanctuary gates,” said Pam Ahern, Edgar’s Mission founder

On arrival, Masha weighed in at just 1 86kg!

“But don’t be fooled by her size,” Pam said “Her impact is anything but! Masha has two speeds – all systems go, or sleep And doing both she is incredibly adorable ”

And if the images of little Masha gambolling through the daffodil field at Woodend’s Glen Osmond are anything to go by, there is no doubt in that statement

The partnership between Glen Osmond and Edgar’s Mission is the brainchild of Glen Osmond owner and local Woodend identity, Janet Hawkins With the larger part of the property already gifted to Very Special Kids, several rescued sheep from Edgar’s Mission roam the house property

Here occupants of two specially designed houses are treated to the daily antics of the sheep and are afforded opportunities to feed and interact with them

Abandoned Angora goat Masha has found her way into the hearts of many since coming to the sanctuary

PIctured from left are Jonathon Beechley, Maree Cuddihy, Troy Upfield, Sue Whitfield and Karen O’Sullivan.

SUPER QUIZ?

Local knowledge (1 point)

1. When does mental health fundraiser Lap it Up take place?

2. Competitive woodchopper Blake Meyer is from which Macedon Ranges town?

3. Who is hosting the Bird of aFeather LGBTIQA+ luncheon?

4. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is being hosted where? (3 points)

5. In which month does this year’s Budburst take place?

General knowledge (1 point)

6. What is the name of the farm where children’s television show Shaun the Sheep set?

7. Who sings the theme song for the James Bond film Skyfall?

8. In which US city would you find the Golden State Bridge?

9. Who is featured on the Australian five dollar bank note? (3 points)

10. Who is lead singer of UK band Coldplay?

TODAY’S CROSSWORD NO.

Recognition andvoice

Rosie Baker,Woodend

Stephen Holgate in his letter ('No special insight', Opinions, September 12), believes churches should keep out of politics.

If Stephen is aWoodend local, he would know that St Mary'sWoodend has long stood up for the oppressed including refugees, LGBTQI+, and now our First Nations people.

Jesus stood up for justice and railed against oppression. As we know,our Australian Aboriginal people have not received justice and do not have avoice on issues that directly affect them.

Statistics show high rates of health issues, incarceration and deaths in custody, and low life expectancy

Primarily a'yes' vote is for two things: recognition of the first people of this land, and adirect voice to parliament.

Ihumbly acknowledge 60,000 years of our First Nations peoples, and call for a Voice to Parliament by voting yes.

Yes, please

GeoffHildebrandt, Woodend

Ibelieve Stephen Holgate ('No special insight', Opinions, September 12) may have forgotten Relationship Therapy 101.

When we are in adysfunctional relationship, and all metrics tell us this is asad case with Australia and our First Nations people, one response is to listen carefully to the voice of the aggrieved party.Listen with our heart, not our spleen.

From little things

KenReither,Gisborne

Macedon Ranges Shire councillors are to be applauded for their decision to limit any celebration on January 26. The longer term objective is not to eliminate Australia Day but instead, commemorate it on adifferent, more appropriate date.

The anniversary of establishing apenal colony and the dispossession of acontinent from the original Australians is not a date worthy of celebration.

Australia Day should be aday for us to hail the many successes of all Australian people, to reflect on all our positives over the last 60,000 or so years and to be united in our optimism for the future.

This is an important issue. It is an issue that could easily beaddressed by the Federal Government. It would be really doing something, not just saying something. It is an issue that would make adifference and strengthen the evolution of atruly multicultural Australia.

For many years Ihave written to representatives of all levels ofgovernment requesting achange to the date of Australia Day

So far,the response from our federal and state politicians has been …nothing. At least anumber of local councils, now including ours, are starting to make amove. From little things, big things grow

Eventually Australia will become a republic. But why wait until then to settle on anew date for Australia Day? Why not set the new date now and enact the republican status onthatdate, in whatever year it happens?

Shameonyou,council

Tonia Todman, Macedon Ranges

Theelimination of Australia Day recognition for the Macedon Ranges by the council is clearly adecision made in the secrecy of the council chambers.

The council did not consult the community –nor was there any notice that the council was going to consider the matter Who proposed this?Why the secrecy?

Ihave always considered Australia Day as recognition of the diversity ofthe population and the profound successes we have achieved as anation. What will the council now have us doto recognise this deep

national pride?

Councillors should always keep in mind that they are only there because we have voted for them. We can (andprobably will) easily vote for other,more open andhonest candidates when the time comes.

Shame on you Macedon Ranges Shire Council.

Political sincefoundation

Rev’d DrRichard Wilson, Woodend

Aletter in this paper ('No special insight', Opinions, September 12) asserts the (Christian) church has no ‘special expertise’ and no role in public political debate on the Indigenous Voice to Parliament.

But the church has been apolitical organisation since its foundation. Its founding inspiration, Jesus Christ, was actively political, confronting the political leaders of his day on their injustice, inequality,the poverty of the marginalised under their care and condemning racial and religious discrimination. He was cruelly executed because of this political activism.

The stories of Jesus’spolitical activism form the New Testament andinform the church’sfoundational moral rationale on how communities work together –our ethics.

These moral arguments are as relevant today as they were 2000 years ago, if not more soand are the basis for the church’s contemporary political action.

The Voiceis an issue of the formation and maintenance of community,raising the essential question: who is my neighbour? This question was asked of Jesus by a religious leader and his response was The Good Samaritan parable.

Aman lies severely injured or maybe dead on the side of the road. Alevite and apriest (religious leaders) both walk by avoiding the man.

They do this because their religion forbids them contact with foreigners and the dead or they would be excluded from the Temple or Synagogue.

They avoid him because of this ritual inconvenience, because they haveother things to do more important than the man’s welfare and, they do not want to look into the depths of the tragedy of the man’s life. That man is not for them aneighbour

The samaritan –ethnically and religiously distinct from the other two –goes to the man, renders first aid, puts him on his donkey and takes him to an inn, providing everything that he needs.

The samaritan enlists the participation of the innkeeper and promises unlimited resources for the man’srecovery.For the samaritan, the man is his neighbour

When we vote on October 14 we will have to decide whether the Indigenous community is or is not our neighbour.Itis not the role of the church to tell anyone how,but maybe this story helps us decide.

Rev’d Dr Richard Wilson is an Anglican Priest and Research Associate of the University of Divinity, resident in Woodend.

Leave politics out of the parade

KarenJanssen,Woodend

We attended the Kyneton Daffodil and Arts Festival Grand Parade on Sunday September 10.

Our daughter attends Kyneton Dog Obedience and some of our grandchildren attend the Kyneton Kindergarten and Kyneton Primary School so we thought it would be nice to support the local community groups and see the wonderful floats and amazing work that had gone into theday Some of the groups went to alot of effort and should be commended.

It was with much disappointment that we observed one group that turned the parade into apolitical stunt. The upcoming referendum is achoice for all to vote and should not be part of alocal community parade.

Iwas not the only person that felt this way as Iheard one women say “this is disgusting” and we spoke briefly on how

acommunity parade is not the place for pushing opinions on to others, whichever way you wish to vote.

Please, in future, could you leave politics out of the parade.

Boywho cried "woke"

BarryMiller, Kyneton

Ilove living in the modern era. Among many benefits is how much easier it is to identify aperson lacking any empathy.He’ll be the boy who cried “woke”.

State of exclusion

Hans Paas, Castlemaine

Slowly but surely Goulburn Murray Water is quietly stealing public access from Lake Cairn Curran from the people of Victoria.

Despite election promises from the Premier at consecutive elections to open more public spaces, we are actually being excluded from areas that have been open to the public for nearly 70 years

Signs that have athreatening tone placed on the newly erectedfencing that keeps usfrom accessing the dam wall have mysteriously appeared

Nobody would disagree that these treasured natural areas need to be protected along with the integrity of the irrigation system, but the heavy-handed approach that prevents visitors from viewing their facilities betrays policies of exclusion with menace.

What next, banning of dogs or on leash areas around the lake? Iguess Ishould not be mentioning these things as the next installation will be signs about that.

Alas our state is becoming astate of exclusion with activities that have been open to us for decades being banned or restricted without consultation or even reasons being published. No wonder many Victorians get grumpy with this government.

An evenbetterAustralia

Annette Buckley, pastor,Macedon Ranges Partnership, UnitingChurch in Australia

In response to arecent letter from Stephen Holgate ('No special insight', Opinions, September 12): The Uniting Church in Australia actually does have some helpful insights; we have already been through a similar process ourselves.

For many years now,wehave engaged in aprocess of establishing and living in a covenant relationship with our First Nations brothers and sisters in the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress.

In 2009 we amended our own Constitution to recognise the prior sovereignty of First Nations people, acknowledge the complicity of the church in their dispossession and suffering, and commit to walking together in an ever-deepening relationship with each other.Our symbolic recognition is backed up by practical work

At each step, we have been met by the graceand wisdom of the UAICC members, which Isee reflected in the Uluru Statement from the Heart.

At times this process has been costly to each group, and it is far from perfect, but we are richer as achurch for the way we have worked together,aswerecognise and value First Nations’ culture and contributions in our life.

We support the Yesvote because we believe it is an invitation to an even better Australia for us all.The UCA does not tell people “how to think and vote” but it supports aYes vote for this reason and avariety of others.

I’m happy to share the UCA’sexperience and insights if people are curious and openhearted.

Other sporting clubs, corporations and even celebrities may have similar experiences or other reasons for their support, but how would I, or Mr Holgate, know if we don’t have the courage and curiosity to ask?

Sadly,itseems much easier to sit apart from us and make judgements without knowing our stories and to call us names.

Mossy Bottom Farm. 7. Adelle. 8. San Fransisco. 9. Queen Elizabth. 10. Chris Martin.

Wellbeing

Bring balancetolife

If she hadn’t experienced some of the healing methods of the ‘new age’ and explored them at depth herself, Grace Johnston, now an AO scanning therapist, counsellor and spiritual carer,wouldstill be convinced so-called quantum healing was rubbish.

“This is not to say Idon’t go to my wonderful local doctor when Ineed to,” Grace says.

“What’schanged for me in the past few years, however,has been my discovery of the subtle world of energy vibration and frequency and, with it, my wonderful Solex Global AO scanner.”

Grace uses the scanner for herself every day,and, perhaps more importantly, she’sfinding it gives her extra clarity when she’sworking with clients.

Grace explains that the AO scan is asoftware package which uses ashort voice recording to capture and analyse thousands of overtones. These provide an in-the-moment snapshot of the body’sfunctioning,right down to the level of food sensitivities, supplement requirements and the state of the cells and mitochondria.

“The voice scan also identifies the subtle energy frequencies which support the body with its own healing, while also showing the underlying negative emotions and stresses affecting the person’swell-being,” Grace says.

It is not ahealth diagnostic tool per se, she explains. Its primary purposes are educational –what you need to change in your lifestyle for better balance in health and life.

Horses for healing

Over and over people tell Elizabeth Hannah of Black Horse Therapies that being with horses makes them feel calm. Elizabeth is principal of the practice Black Horse Therapies which provides assistance to adults and children experiencing stress and anxiety

The approach used at Black Horse Therapies involves interacting with ahorse and then reflecting on the experience.

“This reflection may be done verbally by the participant, but there is never any pressure on them to put their experiences into words,” Elizabeth says.

“It may be done through listening to the observations of the therapist and support person attending the session, or privately at home.

“The participant often discovers that they have strengths and abilities (such as being calm, gentle and patient or being assertive and astrongleader) which they,and others, were unaware of. These stories allow the person to form anew senseof self-identity (how they see themselves) and to build self-esteem and confidence.”

During activities with horses, participants experience asense of safety and connection in asituation which they may initially have found challenging. They practise finding aplace of calm through focusing on the horse, perhaps through regulating their breathing. Participants are gently encouraged to be aware of their emotions and their stress level before, during and after their time in the horse yard. What is learnt in the horse yard can then flow on to other relationships and situations in the person’s life.

Anaturalapproach

Practising out of Kyneton and Gisborne, Michele from Qi of Life offers acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, massage, cupping, moxibustion and other modalities of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Chinese Medicine has been practised in the far east for thousands of years and is now recognised as anatural effective solution for many conditions within the modern world.

Qi of Life believes in the role of acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine as anatural approach to health and wellbeing and alternative or complementary to western medicine.

Their mission is to educate and empower each patient to understand their body and assist them with their ongoing health and wellbeing. This is why acupuncture treatment is always provided alongside nutritional and lifestyle recommendations.

All of their services are provided by afully registered Australia Acupuncture and Chinese Medical Association practitioner

Life assist therapies

Artly Therapy, under the expert guidance of director Gretchen Hillhouse, is proud to announce its NDIS registration for art therapy and life coaching services.

Gretchen works with children, adolescents and adults. She has a particular interest in supporting neurodiverse clients on the autism spectrum and with ADHD, and addressing anxiety in clients of all abilities and capacities.

Whether at her Castlemaine premises or through home visits, Gretchen offers face-to-face individual art therapy sessions and art making sessions where clients are guided to engage with different art making based on their individual interests and strengths.

“There are so many benefits of art therapy,” Gretchen says.

“It can support sensory integration in neuro-diverse adults, adolescents and children; support aperson to manage emotions using non-verbal communication; relieve stress and anxiety; support children and adolescents suffering from behavioural or social problems at school or at home; support children or adults who have experienced atraumatic event or abrain injury and support people with learning disabilities.

“It’swonderful to see clients leave each session in amuch calmer,happier state than they arrived in,” Gretchen says.

BLACKHORSE THERAPIES

EQUINE ASSISTED THERAPY &ACUPUNCTURE

Elizabeth Hannah

NDIS registered

Helping adults and children with anxiety, stress &depression

(ASD, behavioural &emotional regulation, trauma)

Located in abeautiful setting near Castlemaine

Qualified psychotherapist

(GradDip Counselling &Psychotherapy)

Experienced horsewoman trained in Natural Horsemanship

Registered Acupuncturist with 30 yearsexperience

Phone 0403 753 221

Email blackhorsetherapies@westnet.com.au

Web blackhorsetherapies.ntpages.com.au

Artly Therapy also offers face-toface life coaching in Castlemaine and online life coaching nationally “Life coaching can address anxiety; reduce stress; grow self-esteem and confidence; support identity; enable you to set and achieve goals; and help you manage emotions,” Gretchen says.

Artly Therapyisa therapeutic practice in Castlemaineoffering:

• ArtTherapy

• Life Coaching

We work with children,adolescents andadults to:

• Addressanxiety

• Regulateemotions

• Grow self-esteem and confidence

• Support identity

• Setand achievegoals

We areNDISregistered,specialising in supportingAutismand ADHD

Please call Gretchentodiscuss youor your child’sspecificneeds:

Qi of Life Acupuncture

UsingtheholisticandbalancedapproachofChinese medicine,QiofLifeacupuncture'sprimarygoalisto supportthehealthandwell-beingofthecommunity

–Fertility –Pregnancy –ChronicPain –Anxiety –Stress–Menopause –GeneralHealthconcerns CallMicheleon0407582036orbookonlineat www.qioflife.com.au/book

29HighStreet,Kyneton|8/42BrantomeStreet,Gisborne

Covering the Macedon Ranges and Mount Alexander Shires

Circulated throughout: Kyneton, Castlemaine,Gisborne,Malmsbury,Trentham, Woodend, Redesdale,Lancefield, Romsey,Macedon, Mt. Macedon, Metcalfe Chewton, Harcourt,Newstead,Maldon,Taradale, Elphinstone, Campbells Creek, Guildford, Barkers Creek, Sutton Grange, Baringhup,Muckleford, Yapeen.

ELLIOTT MIDLAND NEWSPAPERS KYNETON

3Market St., PO Box153,Kyneton, 3444

Telephone: (03) 5422 1488

Facsimile: General (03) 5422 3173

CASTLEMAINE

13 Hargraves St.,POBox 227,Castlemaine,3450

Telephone: (03) 5472 1788

Facsimile: (03)

Birthday Club

Kyneton: ahume@midnews.com.au

Red Rebels from Castlemaine, Melbourne and Ballarat will gather in Bendigo next Monday to support Castlemaine activists attending Bendigo Magistrates Court.

Red Rebels are an international performance activist troupe dedicated to shining the light on environmental matters and supporting groups doing likewise.

Red Rebels are supporting three Central VicClimate Action members who were handcuffed in Bendigo National Australia Bank earlier this year,for refusingto leave NAB when the bank would not rule outfunding anew coal mine.

The three said they would be representing themselves in court.

Red Rebels are also encouraging people to attend the screening of the environmentalist action thriller How to Blow Up aPipeline presented by Central VicClimate Action, Theatre Royal and School Strike for Climate on September 28 at 7.30pm. The story follows agroup of young people in their plan toblow up an oil pipeline and explores the moral validity of extreme actions in addressing the climate situation.

Aspokesperson for Central VicClimate Action said theywere wanting to stir up the conversation about how people were responding when the country'sleaders and financial institutions continued to support the fossil fuel industry and added that they were certainly not advocating the use of violence. There will be aQ&A after the film and proceeds of the night will go to Castlemaine School Strike for Climate.

RedRebels rally support Report to the community

Mt Alexander Community Enterprise invite community members to the Ray Bradfield Room at Victory Park Castlemaine on September 25 for their 'Annual Report to the Community' event.

Mt ACE looks forward to reconnecting with locals and sharing plans for the year ahead and welcome new members to join their committee for quarterly meetings. Local clubs and groups are also invited to learn more about their online grants program.

The volunteers aim to raise funds through their partnership with Bendigo Bank and Bendigo Telco and return those funds to local groups via grants.

They say the more people who link their accounts with Mt ACE, the greater the funds the group will have to distribute.

"Every customer who uses Bendigo Bank or Bendigo Telco and links their account with our Community Enterprise will earn us amonthly commission which we then distribute locally," Mt ACE secretary RobynLewis said.

Their updated website: communitygrants.com.au now makes linking accounts easier and there is no cost to customer

Bendigo Bank and Bendigo Telco give Mt ACE amonthly commission based on every linked account and the customer doesn’t have any extra fees or charges and there is no loss of privacy

This enterprise model is gaining popularity with many Bendigo Bank branches now joining with local groups to return money directtothe community.It’slike aCommunityBank but through the existing branch network.

Attend the event September 25 event at 5.30pmfor asocial gathering before the meeting starts at 6pm to learn more.

Mt Alexander Community Enterprise members Kim Michelmore, Robyn Lewis and Kerry Anderson invite community members to attend their annual report gathering.

Midland

PROPE RT Y&L IV IN G

Back to school

Rich in history,this very pretty,solid granite school building closed its doors in 1989. The current owners have nurtured and enhanced the property converting and extending the building into asubstantial country house within treed gardens with native trees, many fruit trees and space to enjoy

This unique property features a226m2 converted country house with seven main rooms.

The delightful school building boasts large living room with coved ceiling, colonial windows, fireplace, and original blackboard and bookshelves intact.

There are also spacious double bedrooms -two with robes -a family room with polished timber floors, feature stone walling and cook-in wood fireplace.

The craftsman-built solid timber kitchen comes with extensive space and modern amenity

There is also asunny dining area with access to areturn verandah, plus second lounge room with cathedral ceiling.

Also ideal for the family is the central bathroom, plus two toilets and alaundrymudroom.

The property’sstudio is aspacious 7.1m x4mschool room with reverse cycle air

The workshop –garage will impress as an extensive building of 12m x10m plus there is an adjoining carport area of 12m x6mplus further storage and extra toilet facilities. Additions to the property are 150,000 litres tank water storage, asolar-hart hot water system plus a5.61 KW grid-connected solar system.

Property: Former Sutton Grange Common school c1870, nowa country house called Morning Recess

Address: 1383 Bendigo-Sutton Grange Road,Sutton Grange

Price: $1,250,000

Agent: Belle Property Castlemaine

Contact: RobWaller 0418 571130

Narelle Waller 0408 571131

17 BowenStreet, Kyneton

Striking Family Entertainer

Open Wed5.00pm -5.30pm, Sat 12.00pm-12.30pm& Sunday 11.00am -11.30am

Auction Sunday 22 October 11.30am

EPR: $1,200,000 -$1,300,000

Thisstrikingfamily entertainer offers ultimate style, comfortand character. The all electric home boasts agourmet kitchen withinduction cooking, huge light filled living spacesand professionallylandscapedoutdoorareasfor exceptional familyliving andentertainingoptions

788 sqm

9McKindleys Road, BarkersCreek

Open Saturday 2.45pm -3.15pm & Sunday1.15pm -1.45pm

For Sale

EPR: $1,000,000- $1,100,000

Lifestyle, Views and aLoved Community

Thesense of community, thehistoric setting on thetracksofthe oldgold fields andoverlookingthe Barkers CreekCricket Ground, makesthisnew listingfor keeps.Set on 1.87 ha,discoverawell-appointed 4bedroom,2livingareaand 2bathroom brick home.Established gardens, numerousalfresco spaceswith dreamt of views, andexcellentexternalinfrastructureare some of theproperties many offerings.

4

2

1.87 ha (4.6 acres)

23 Burgoyne Street, Vaughan

Open Thurs 12.00pm-12.30pm

&Sunday 2.00pm -2.30pm

For Sale

EPR: $800,000 -$880,000

MasterfullyRestoredand Reimagined Bank of Victoria, circa 1853

From themomentofarrival,thisdoublebrick,2 bedroom residence, the former BankofVictoriacirca 1853,willenchant you. Resurrected fromits original,dilapidated condition,ithas been rebuiltfrom theground up employing passionate,local craftspeople.Packapicnicorbookatable at thepopular GuildfordHotel andcome andexperience23BurgoyneStreet,Vaughan

957 sqm

80 Mitchell Street, Kyneton

Coming Soon

Request early inspection

For Sale

EPR: $700,000-$770,000

Move straightinand enjoythisenviablelocation, mere metresfromPiper Street,the riverwalkand recreationalfacilities.The solid brickhome boasts four bedrooms, twosunnyliving areas, ashelteredalfresco spacewithnatural gasconnected andprivate,established gardens. The potential to value-add andupdatetoyourtastesisexciting. Take inspirationfrommanyrenovated homesinthe area that have achieved outstandinggrowth

1,019 sqm

29 Collins Parade, Kyneton

Open Saturday 10.30am -11.00am

For Sale

EPR: $695,000 -$760,000

Spacious andLow Maintenance Heritage Style

Home with Views

There’ssomuchtofallfor at 29 Collins Parade.Behindthe sweetheritagestyle façade,the designisspaciousand airy,with3bedrooms(twowithWIRs),2 bathroomsand adoublegarage.Relaxationand entertainmentcombine in the open plan kitchen,diningand living area. Thenorth facing alfresco celebrates unobstructedriver andcountry views

32 2337 sqm

16 Wickham Street, Taradale

Vacant Land

For Sale

EPR: $520,000 -$560,000

Peaceful Acreage in the CentreofTown

Establish your dreamhome withcountry views on this privateand picturesque Taradale acreage.Gentlyundulating, thepropertyalsooverlooks thehistoric church,giving it asenseofplace in Taradale’s old gold beginnings.Boundary fencingisalready in placeand lush green pasturesawait some stockorhorses. Thisspecial addressisjust700metres fromthe TaradaleMineral Springs

Reservewitha greatplaygroundand enjoys easy access to theCalderFreeway

-2 ha (5 acres approx.)

Coming Soon...

31 Mollison Street, Kyneton

1940speriodhome closetothe KynetonBotanicGardens

291Harts Lane, Kyneton

Established4bedroom familyhome on 8ha(20 acresapprox.) with establishedequestrian facilities

40 WeeksLane, Lauriston

'Snowden Park', asprawling 86ha (approx. 210acre) property witha3bedroom period home

950Vaughan SpringsRoad, Glenlyon

Former Chinese Market Gardens

Vacant Land

EPR: $360,000 -$390,000

Findyourpocketofpeace andquiet amongstthe picturesque countryside of Glenlyon. Agentlyflowing creek anda peppering of gumscharacterise this lush property.Whilethere are neighbouring homes, anypotential building planswouldbesubject to councilapproval. Perhapsyou mayconsider atiny house as weekendescape? Fornow,landbankfor thefuture, pack atentand enjoy thefresh countryair andlegendary starry nightskies.Ideally located12 minutesfromlovelyMalmsbury withawell-recognisedprimary school,bakery andthe Botanic Gardens.

-2.16ha(5.3 acres approx.)

Thinking of selling this spring?

Ouradviceisdon’t getlost in the crowd.

If youare ahomeowner considering achange, get organisedand launch your property to market soonerrather than latersothatyou canreapthe rewards of improvingmarketconditions before thebulk of thehomeslaunchtomarketinthe laterparts of thespringselling season,dilutingyourimpact.

If you’re contemplatingselling,contact ourexpertteamtoday and position your property at theforefrontofthe market

Charm is theword

If charm has adefining image, it is this enchanting property with two gorgeous living options. On alevel 4479m2 (1.1 acre) on the outskirts of town, this property is the epitome of stylish yet relaxed country living. Built in 1990’storeflect Maldon’sminer’scottage heritage, the main home boasts all the benefits of modern construction with features including timber dado, polished hardwood floorboards and decorative cornices enhanced by an elegant, all-white palette. Twoqueen bedrooms sit either side of the entrance hallway and beyond, an airy open-plan family area flows to an eat-in kitchen with shaker-style cabinetry,spotted gum benchtops, subway tile splash back and gas cooking. With an abundance of space and storage, you’ll want to entertain at every opportunity and when you do, the extensive, north-facing alfresco patio with gabled roof and timber flooring is the ideal spot. With its grey and white tones, designer tiles, large shower space and vanity,the bathroom is very chic. For those working from home, there’sa light-filled, home office plus reversecycle air-conditioning and instant gas hot water

Ideal for teenagers, extended family,guests or as arevenue-generating B&B prospect the two-bedroom studio cottage is set away from the main home and is filled with an abundance of natural light courtesy of its northerly aspect. Of gal construction, the studio offers aspacious interior; feature windows merging the home with its garden surrounds. French doors open from the living/dining are to aprivate outdoor courtyard, while the kitchen deliv-

ers ample storage and bench space with gas cooking. There’sacosy wood-fire heater and reverse-cycle air-conditioning, electric hot water service, laundry,bathroom and mezzanine storage area with dormer window

With every detail attended to, the supporting infrastructure is equally impressive. An expansive 4.1m x6mshed/workshop with concrete floor and power is ideal for tradies or as amancave retreat. Additional shedding includes agarden shed, trailer/woodstore, shade house and three car carport. The property is fully fenced and bordered by crownland on two sides giving on-going privacy.

Property: Reflecting the town’sheritage and includes extrastudio cottage

Address: 2Stump Street,Maldon

Price: $995,000 -$1,045,000

Agent: Jellis Craig

Contact: Leah Panos 0466 878 214 Carole Lenander 0401472 346

Black Range Road,Romsey

Property: Beautifully maintained family home

Address: 5Maxwell Street,Kyneton, Vic3444

Price: $875,000 -$945,000

Agent: Raine &Horne Kyneton

Contact: Jennifer Pearce 0427422 508

This well-maintained period style weatherboard family home is within walking distance to Kyneton’smany amenities including the train station, botanic gardens, Campaspe River Walk, primary and secondary schools plus shopping and sporting facilities. Located in aquiet residential street comprising freestanding single storey family residences. The front door is sheltered by a full width timber verandah accessed by stone paved steps and landing.

Three double bedrooms and asecond living area allow for comfortable family accommodation. The original house displays picture rails plus open fireplace mantle surrounds. Features plaster ceilings and leadlight and coloured glass in windows. The service areas of the house include alarge kitchen with pantry,timber cabinet

Aclassicalgem

doors and island bench opening to spacious north facing dining and living area. Generously proportioned period styled cedar framed windows and doors ensure this space is bathed in winter sunlight. Winter comfort is ensured by the hydronic heating system with heating panels in every room. The system is combined with the instantaneous hot water ensuring hot water on demand. Agardener’sdelight awaits the outdoor enthusiast. The garden includes mature exotic trees, himalayan deodar and silver birch and shrubs blended with Australian native species. Fruit trees include pink lady apple, bosch pear and heirloom fig. Vegetable beds have been planted with herbs and rhubarb. Atimber framed garage accessed by side driveway provides accommodation for two cars, good storage and work areas.

Belle Property Castlemaineand Maldon.

13

3a 2b 1v 407r

•Perfect easy-care lifestyle.

•Spacious andlight kitchen with wall oven, cooktop, pantry, and garden outlook.

•3 good size bedrooms, 2withbuilt-in robes

•Long,lightfilledopenplan living.

Rob Waller |0418571 130

Blasi Mulholland |0417311 733

For sale

$725,000 View Sat 23rdSep 10:45am -11:15am

7Baird Street, Castlemaine

3a 2b 2v 1261r

•Unique blend of vintage charm and modern comfort.

•2 living areas -withopen fireplace,and French doors.

•Glorious garden room-studio.

Rob Waller |0418571 130

Blasi Mulholland |0417311 733

For sale

$875,000 View Sat 23rdSep 11:30am -12:00pm

54 Church Street, Maldon

4a 2b 4v 2213r

•Versatile property with dual occupancy in country gardens closetotown

•Verandahs on all sides, with aelevated deck.

•Freestanding wood fire heaterwithbrick surroundinthe livingroom.

Narelle Waller |0408 571 131

Rob Waller |0418571 130

Belle PropertyCastlemaine |5470 5811 167 Barker Street, Castlemaine

Belle PropertyMaldon |5475 1055 30A MainStreet,Maldon

belleproperty.com

For

2RylandCourt, Castlemaine

3a 2b 6v 2.5w

•Peacefuland convenientcountryside court on the north side of Castlemaine.

•Brick beauty on 2.5 acres of bushland

•Modern, updated kitchen

•Open plan family living room&diningzone.

Rob Waller |0418571 130

Narelle Waller |0408 571 131

Scan to viewour currentlistings

For sale

$1,045,000 View Sat 23rdSep 3:30pm -4:00pm

Richards Road,Castlemaine

You are home!

The five-acre (approx.) property sits quietly on ahill overlooking the countryside and as far as the Cobaw Ranges in the distance.

The much-loved home, built by the current owners 20 years ago, has awarm feeling created with the spaces and the recycled basketball court flooring from the Apollo Stadium is Johnson River hardwood from Western Australia.

The open plan living area, which opens onto extensive decking, oozes welcoming country vibes. The wood heater and floor to ceiling windows, picture framing those quintessential Australian views, add to the gorgeous feeling. The home also benefits from many contemporary comforts; double glazing and split system heating and cooling among these.

Over two levels there are three bedrooms, a study/guest room and two contemporary bath-

rooms. The main bedroom is downstairs with shared access to the main bathroom with abath. The further two bedrooms are upstairs, separated by the second bathroom.

The excellent shedding is of generous proportions and incorporates aconcreted workshop, a raised centre bay for horse floats or caravans, two storage areas that can easily convert to horse stables with power and lighting throughout.

Within the property’sboundary there are three fenced paddocks. Asecure yard around the home provides peace of mind for parents and pet owners.

Apleasant stroll with take you to Bald Hill Reserve where wildlife and walking trails are in abundance. When you can peel yourself away from this fabulous setting, the Kyneton township is just five minutes up the road with the added convenience of aschool bus stopping in this street.

Lancefield -Goldie

21 McEachernLane (OffMountWilliam Road)

On 22.1 Ha (54.6 Acres)

An undeniably blissful ruralretreatinanidyllic and secluded setting

This exceptionalinnercountrylifestyle property is oneof the hiddenjewels of the Macedon Ranges

Price$2,375,000

To viewcall John Keating 0419 880 444

Gisborne South/ToolernVale

180 Blackhill Road (off Couangalt Road)

"Lakeside" on 12.69 Ha (31.35Acres)

Amostattractive countryhomeinabeautiful privatesetting.

Onl 5kmtothe Calder Freeway, 31km(26 mins) to Melbourne Airport, 49km(42 mins) to the BolteBridge.

Price$2,975,000

To viewcall John Keating 0419 880 444

Tylden

125 CemeteryRoad

“The Lake”on47.5 Ha (117 Acres)

Abeautiful medium sized acreage property ideal forpermanentrural living or use as an exceptional countrygetaway, only 1.5 km fromTylden.

Auction Saturday7October at 11am (Ifnot sold prior)

Reserve Price$3.5m

To viewcall John Keating 0419 880 444

As youapproach“The Lake”via ashortdistanceofnothrough road countrylane you glimpse the charming homestead sitting peacefully within established gardens and extensivelawns beyond the sparkling waters of the 2Ha(5acre) lake.

Oncewithin the boundaries of the property an avenue of maturepin oaks,flanked by productivefarming paddocks on both sides,delivers youtothe striking style and architectureofthe brick veneer residence.

Accommodation of approximately 265 m2 (28.5 sqs) includes entrance, formal lounge, separatedining room,large open plan kitchen/meals area/family room,reading room,3 good sized bedrooms,study (or4th bedroom), 2bathrooms,laundryand rear entrance. Thereisa detached brick double garage and farming structural improvements include a good sized machineryshed/workshop,a second storage shed and thereisagazeboto enjoyrelaxing in and the beautyofthe lake

Farming features include excellentgreyloamsoils with improved pastures,13main paddocks including 5river frontpaddocks alongside the1kmoffrontage to the Little Coliban River, steel cattle yards, and excellentcypress and nativetreeshelter plantations Thereisalso asmall orchardwith pears,apples,nashi, quince, and hazelnuts and an excellentvegetable garden.

Retrofitdouble glazing, shower screens, aluminium windows, mirrors, splashbacks, pool fencing/balustrading, window glass replacement and all your glazing requirements!

No job too big or too small Free measure and quotes Phone0488609 495 E: info@innovativeglassaluminium.com.au All our glass supplied and installed are in accordance with Australian Standards

Locally run Macedon Ranges glazing business servicing the Macedon Ranges, Metro Melbourne and much more. KN252726/K

•Mudbrick Restorations •Painting Services

•Cement/Acrylic Rendering •Solid Plastering

•Heritage Resoration •Styrene Cladding Systems

•Renovations -Domestic -Commercial •Latest styles, colours and textures •Freequotes onsite and off plans

•Top Quality,Best price and on-time service

SEPTIC

WendyMcClelland

Wendypassedaway at PenhallHostel, Castlemaine on September 10, 2023aged85.

Muchloved motherof

Amanda and Michael Wright, ‘Grandma Wendy Nana’to Nikola, Olivia, Jamiland Aliyyah, mother-in-lawto

Michael Sarbinowski and Catherine Rush.

Shesurvivedformer husbands

CourtneyWrightand PeterWallace andismissedby former partnerBrenda.

Family andfriends are invited to attend Wendy’sfuneralservice in St John’sAnglicanChurch, Fryers Rd,Chewton TODAY(Tuesday) at 1.30pm.

Afterthe service we will make our way to Chewton Cemetery

Her wake will be at The Taproom, The Mill at 3.45pm. Dress: colourful. Do checkthe weather.

The servicewill be livestreamed forthose unable to attend.

Fordetails please visit Wendy’stribute page on the website of MountAlexanderFunerals

Bring asprig of wattle, some everlasting daisies or eucalyptusleavesifyou wish, otherwise no flowers by request

Friends and family are invited to make adonation to the Indigenous Literacy Foundation at fundraising.ilf.org.au/wendy

Wendy’sfamilysendheartfelt thanks to Penhall staff andtoDrLouisa Hope whoall went outoftheir way to care forWendy

Remembering with love and a special memory

SMITH Nancy Ruth

27.07.1931 -09.09.2023

Belovedwifeof

Geoff (dec). Loving mother to Doug, Graeme and Alison.

Mother-in-lawto Wayne,Bill, Judy and Fred NannytoJessica, Rebecca, Sophia and Eloise

Our eternalgratitude goes to the wonderful, caring staff of RayMBegg Aged Care Kyneton

KN273885/L

Deaths

Beryl JoyLeavesley

Family and friends are invited to attend acelebration of Beryl’slife, to be held in the Church of Christ, BlakeleyRoad, Castlemaine on Thursday21stSeptember commencing at 11.00am. The service will be livestreamed forthose unable to attend. Fordetails please visit Beryl’s tribute page on the website of Mount Alexander Funerals

In lieu of flowers please consider adonation to the Smith Family Foundation. Fordetails please see Beryl’stribute page

SMITH Nancy Ruth

Aservice to celebrate Nan’slifewell-lived will be held at MetcalfeUniting Church

5Kyneton-Metcalfe Road, Metcalfe on Tuesday 26th September 2023 commencing at 11am Aburial at the Sutton Grange Cemeterywill follow.

KN273886/L

Passed away peacefully at St John of God Hospital Geelong on Tuesday12th September 2023. Dearly lovedfather of Anna, Jamesand Simon and former wife,Carolyn. Treasured grandpa of Zachary,Evie and Polly Much lovedhusband of Faye (dec) and stepfather to Scott, Anthonyand Marcus Phillip will be greatly missed by all his family,friends,past colleagues and will be forevercherished in our hearts

In keeping with Phil’swishes, aprivate cremation will be held.

To leave apersonal message, please visit Phil’stribute page on the website of Mount Alexander Funerals

Passedsuddenly in Greensborough on 14th September 2023

aged87years

Eldest daughterofJoseph Lamaro(dec) and Mary Carmel Bonica (dec), lovedsister of Richard (dec), Bernard (dec), Raymond,Kevin (dec), Patricia andJohn (dec).

Dearly lovedwifeofKevin Tobin Loving mother of Lisa, Paul, Antony, Nicholas, Jonathan, Jeremyand Gregory, andmotherinlaw of King, Jenny, Catherina, Merridee,Collette, Rachaeland Anne Muchloved Nonna of Jordan, Caleb, Jasper,Joseph, Mia, Hamish,Lily, Milla, Jasmine,Ellie,Jonah, Freddie,Sadie and Esther Youlived forthose youloved and those youloved remember

AService of Thanksgiving forthe lifeofMrBob Murrell will be held in Christ Church Anglican Church, Mostyn Street, Castlemaine on 0Friday22nd September at 2.00pm. Following this service the cortege will leave forthe HarcourtCemetery. The service will be livestreamed forthose unable to attend. Fordetails please visit Bob’s tribute page on the website of Mount Alexander Funerals

KN273882/L

THORNTON -Lok

Family &Friends are welcome to join and celebrate the life of Lok. Commencing with his Interment to take place on Sunday 24thSeptember 2023 at 2pm at the Chewton Cemetery

The celebration will continuewithStories, Music,and Drinks at the Northern Arts Hotel. Barker St, Castlemaine

KN273862/L

MURLEY -Jon

27.4.1974 -22.8.2023

Jon’sfamilywish to thank all those that reached outwith love and supportinthe recent passing of their belovedson, brother anduncle

Please accept this as our personal expressionofthanks

Special thank youto Dr Emily Girdwood and all staff at Botanical Gardens Health. Also to Mt. Alexander Funeralsand Danni Moore forthe compassionand supportwereceived.

KN273837/L

NICHOLLS Garry‘Nicho’

Although 12 months hasgonesince we said goodbye youare in my thoughts everyday. Thanks mate forthe wonderful times we shared. Love youalways. Love Robyn &Scotty (Gerry) Go Bombers

KN273891/L

HOLDEN (Sheppard) Inga Maree 8.10.73 –22.09.21

Youare so deeply lovedand missed by us all. We will treasure our memories of youforever. Remembering youAlways Your loving family

KN273884/L

Funerals

Funeral Mass to celebrate the lifeofMrs Kathleen Tobin will be offered in St Mary’sCatholicChurch, Hargraves Street, Castlemaine next Tuesday26thSeptember at 11.00am.

Following Mass youare invited to stayand join the family forrefreshments in the church hall. The cortege will leave St Mary’sChurch at 3.00pm and travel to the Bendigo lawn cemetery. The service will be livestreamed forthose unable to attend. Fordetails please see Kathleen’s tribute page on the website of Mount Alexander Funerals.

Kathleen Tobin

Kathleen Grace Tobin

Bob Murrell

Castlemaine 5470 5951

KN273878/L

Phillip EdwardRowe

Castlemaine 5470 5951

KN273880/L

Castlemaine 5470 5951

Vacancy available nowfor full time Deli Staff

pup forsale. MC # 956000013028831. Source #MB205767 Castlemaine Ph 0416 084 018 familydogsvictoria. com.au

invites you to our Annual Reporttothe Community

5.30 social for6pm start

Monday, September 25

RayBradfield Room Castlemaine

All welcome www.communitygrants.com.au

We thankour funding partners Bendigo Bank and Bendigo Telco fortheir supportwhich enables us to distribute grants to our community

KN273851/L

NEWHAM, 24 Egans Lane. Sun., Sept. 24. 10am to 3pm. Various range of antiques, furniture, collectables and glass ware. Look out for the balloons.

Qualified

Horticulturist with 20 years experience

Time nowtofertilise and plant forsummer colour and the table

196

$55 p/h

GATES PERGOLAS PIZZA OVENS TaitDecorativeIron Ph

KN273802/L

LABOURER REQUIRED

Kyneton 5422 1488

KN273779/L

Employment

Career Opportunities

•Exciting 2xfull time, permanent positions

•Beautiful Gisborne South location

•AttractiveSalary+Super

•A small but supportiveteam!

Aunique opportunity exists fortalentedindividuals to join our team in Gisbourne in the following positions:

•Greenkeeper

•Gardener

If youlove thegarden and working outdoors then apply today!

To apply visit our careers site www.jumbunna.recruitmenthub.com.au

at play.cricket.com.au or visit facebook.com/

DON’T MISS THIS Outstanding

ArtExhibition &Sales

by Serge Daeffler

WesleyHill Bakery

97 DukeStreet. Sept., 4tillOct.,3 daily 7am -2pm

Closed Sundays.

Official launch is Wed., Sept. 20 at 11am.

Chris 0402 238 870

IMPORTANT NOTICE

DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL!

The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful foranadvertiser to showany intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy,race, age,marital status,political or religious belief or activity,industrial activity,parental or carer status, physical features,disability,lawfulsexual activity/ sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with aperson with one of the above characteristics,unless covered by an exception or granted an exemption under the Act. As we couldbe legally liable if we print an unlawful advertisement, we willnot accept advertisements that appear to break the law. Formore information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.

KN272546

Wanted

LP RECORDS

position Must be areliable good worker Must have proven work ethic. Own transport. Prefer non-smoker. HarcourtNth area Ph 0401 628 340 PASTURE hay rolls. NO RAIN DAMAGE from $50 each at Trentham. Cartage available. Phone: 0417 816 638. KN273873/J Kyneton Cricket Club registrations are open forWoolworths Blast, U11 to U17 (all teams mixed) and seniors Search Kyneton

Rabbit traps, old bottles, tins, fishing rods, records, toys, Australian coins, advertising signs, oil bottles, cast iron items.

TOPCASH PAID Richard 0417 415 336

FIRST AID &CPR CLASSES

Including Child Care

First Aid

Book online at everyonefirstaid.com.au

Servicing Central Victoria

KN273331/L

Gardening

Olivet

approach to education.

•English /Humanities(7-10)

•Maths /Science (7-10)

•Visual Arts

•Design Tech

The successful applicants will need to:

•Holdacurrent VIT registration or VIT Permission to Teach.

•Demonstrate skill and experience with strong interpersonal and communication skills

•Abletoprioritise,problem solve, demonstrate initiative, and utilise common sense

Applications closeMonday27th September 2023.

Email to StevenNicholas snicholas@olivet.vic.edu.au

Applications will be reviewed as theyare submitted. Interviews and offers mayoccur prior to the closing date Position Description is availableunder employment tab www.olivet.vic.edu.au.

All potential employees must comply with the College Child Safety Code of Conduct and Child Safety Policy

Popup16ft,gas stove, 2bench, fridge,

been averyreliable car Only selling due to upgrade to an electricmodel.

$10,000. Woodend.

GOLF results Town &District

GISBORNE

Gisborne is pleased to be hosting the Senior Amateur event this Friday,aspart of the Victorian men’sand women’ssenior order of merit.

If you are keen and over 55 years (men) and 50 (women) you can enter on the club’swebsite. There’sgross/nett and scratch/stableford trophies available.

Saturday’sstableford attracted 176 players, with Ben Roberts winning A-grade with 37 points, Peter Fraser topping B-grade with 40, and Stephen Manago taking out C-grade with an impressive 41 points.

Wednesday ladies: Kerry Peterson topped A-grade with 37 points, Marg Power had 36 in Bgrade, and Sue Raggatt was best of the C-graders with 27.

KYNETON

Spring pennant under way

The Northern District Croquet Association Spring Pennant commenced last week, with arecord number of teams entered from five clubs in the region.

In the only Division 1match played, Autumn Pennant winners Quarry Hill Rosella was overpowered by Kyneton Blue 4games to 2. Kyneton’sRick Janssen played particularly well, winning both his singles games 7-2 and 7-4 respectively.His partner Len Baker had an epic singles battle with Quarry Hill’sChris Eiffert, but finally went down 4-7. Kyneton started slowly in the first doubles game, despite having the home court advantage, losing 3-7, but turned it around with astrong 7-2 win in the second game of doubles. QH Rosella will be out for revenge in the next round, where they will have the home court advantage in Bendigo.

Asimilar upset occurred in Division 2, with the Autumn Pennant winners Kyneton Black going down to the Quarry Hill Kookaburras 5games to 1. John Murdoch from the Kookaburras had two strong singles wins, while the doubles games both went to the Kookaburras (with one resolved only at the final hoop 7-6). Kyneton’sonly win came from Graham Smith defeating Gayle Deary by acomfortable 7-3.

The other Division Twomatch was alocal derby between Kyneton Red and Kyneton Green. The Red team’sPat Fahy won both his singles games, while his partner Darryl Chivers defeated his own wife on the Green team. In the doubles, the Red team was too strong, winning both games 7-3, for acomfortable overall win of 5 games to 1.

With three of the Division 2teams all with very similar combined handicaps, plus an upset of the previous Champions, the battle for the Championship this time will be very closely fought.

Division 3featured several first-time Pennant players, but experience counted when the Macedon Ranges’ Mt Charlie team of Noeline Richardson and LynRobinson took on their stablemates Mt Towrong for acrushing 6games to 0victory,laying down the challenge to the other teams.

At Quarry Hill, Kyneton Yellow took on the Quarry Hill Parrots in a very tight match. The more experienced Judy Aldred dominated her singles games 7-2 and 7-4 respectively,while the doubles were split one to each team, making it 3games to 3. However,ona countback of total hoops scored, Kyneton took the win 38 hoops to 32. A special mention to Margaret Parker,Jill Millard and Chris Ball, who were all first-time Pennant players, in particular Kyneton’sParker, who only took up playing croquet last summer after aCome-And-Try session! She didn’t win her singles games this time, but scored a very commendable 5and 6hoops respectively

The other Division 3match was between Macedon Ranges’ Mt Robertson and Maldon Maple. Macedon’sLiz Harnden had two singles wins (including anarrow win over Maldon’sAnn Metz (7-6), but her partner Sue Wild lost her singles games to Metz and Damien Kennedy,setting up adoubles clincher.However,Maldon prevailed, to take both the doubles games 7-3 and 7-4 respectively, giving Maldon the round win 4games to 2.

It looks to be an another exciting and close-fought Pennant season this time, especially with new players and teams entering the competition. Bring it on !

Also last week, players from Kyneton and Macedon Ranges Croquet Clubs gathered for the Kyneton leg of the WattsFresh Challenge trophy.With good weather at last the lawns were dry and in excellent condition. The competition is played between four pairs from each club playing their opponents in around-robin format.

Scores were tied at two wins apiece after the first round but from then on, Kyneton dominated winning all eight games in the next two rounds. Abreak for lunch allowed the Macedon Ranges Club based in Gisborne to steady themselves and share the spoils in the final round and at least go home feeling they might be able to reverse the results in the rematch in autumn.

The 54-hole James Rennick Memorial Trophy event produced astunning finish on Saturday,with just one stroke separating the winner from two other contenders after 54 holes.

Congratulations to Regan Williams who has turned in some great scores since joining the club earlier this year

He finished with nett rounds of 78, 67 and 71 for atotal of 216, David Pilcher 72, 72, 72 –217 and Glenn Cook 74, 73, 70–217 were hot on his heels. Williams also won the day’shandicap event for 0-15 markers, with Col O’Sullivan 92-21-71 taking out the higher handicap section.

The stableford winners offthe white tees were Ross Foreman (8) with 35 points for 0-15 handicappers, and David Scandrett (26) with 34 for the 16 upwards grouping.

NTPs went to Pilcher (2), David Moore, Terry Gamble and Braeden Cottingham (also super pin).

Agroup of 42Year 10 students from Kyneton High School were welcomed on Friday for their last day of term 2.

They had an enjoyable day learning and playing golf with teachers and someofthe lady members who supplied abarbecue lunch.

Wednesday stableford: Scott Murphy (8) 36 points from Peter Walsh (16) on35. Ladies –Julie Harris (24) 34 from Jane Stanley (43) 30.

The second round of the women’schampionship took place last Tuesday

Lorraine Ryan 95-20-75 topped A-grade, and Banksie Buckley 111-33-78 was best in B-grade.

pected to fight out the finish.

Trevor Lambert leads the way with rounds of 77, 77 –154 followed by Hugh Parks on78, 80 –158.

Peter McGill leads the way in B-grade with 82, 83 –165, and Steve Draper is the C-grade pacesetter with 104,95 –199.

Saturday’swinner was EdGodek with 89-18-71, from Draper 95-23-72 and McGill 83-11-72.

DiRohde clinched the monthly medal on Wednesday with 106-36-76, from LynMurchison 110-31-79..Anne Robinson was NTP

Tuesday Legends: Ed Godek (17) 37 points, from James Whitford (15) 35 and Denis Davenport (6) on 34.

MOUNT MACEDON

On Sunday we welcomed adozenenthusiastic lady participants for our firstoffour ‘Ladies Get into Golf@MMGC’ spring sessions.

Sally won the putting competition, while Lilly showed her brother that good technique will always beat over confidence.

Saturday stableford: Overall and C-grade winner with 39 points was Peter Semmens (23), while Peter Sinclair (10) and Stuart Gunnell (12) were the respective Aand Bgrade winners.

Spring has arrived and the shorts and pale legs were on display for Wednesday’spar event, with John Andrew welcomed back.

Mark Burrage (13) won A-grade with an even score, and the B-grade and overall winner was Jeremy Clare (22) on +2.

Mili Peniamina (48) took her first steponto the midweek podium with a-2runner-up in B-grade.

ROMSEY

Saturdaywas awonderful day to be out on the park, despite no-one managing to break their handicap.

Simon Donovan (11) was the stableford winner with 35 points, from Rob Gillian (11) 34 and Mick Nicholls Snr (22) on 33.

Luke Lyons, Ben Owen and Andrew Clement were the NTPs.

Wednesday’sAmbrose was played onthe first virtually perfect day for golf since mid-autumn, and there were plenty of stories of great shots played or seen during the round.

Sevi Williams (13) and Sherif Abdel-Sayed (26) led the way with 81-9.75-71.25, from KathJakabsons (38) and Rob Slade (16) 86-13.5-72.5 and Elaine Scanlon (33) and Hugh Williams (20) 9113.25-77.75.

Players appreciated all the hours spent by volunteers mowing across the park.

TRENTHAM

With 89 players in action on Saturday,itwas the C-graders who made an impact.

Freddy Dean returned the day’sbest round of 92-25-67, while Craig Cotton 76-7-69 and Lincoln Porter 87-18-69 were the respective Aand B-grade winners.

The ladies contested their final Saturday medal with A-grader Cate Thomas taking the honours with anett 73; Judy Jolly nett 74 was best in B-grade.

WOODEND

Saturday’sstableford field encountered fine, breezy conditions and B-grader Brian Paton (20) set the pace with 37 points.

Kenney Turley (6) took out A-grade with 34 points, on acountback from Gary Richardson.

Lucky Al McInnes (15)had 38 points in the midweek stableford to edge out MauriceKelly (19) on a countback.

It’sPresident’sversus Captain’sDay this Saturday,with abarbecue for members to follow to celebrate the move back into the renovated clubhouse.

‘Get into Golf at Woodend’ is the catch cry for the new season.

LANCEFIELD

The final round of the club championship takes place this Saturday,with two former winners ex-

Bowls soon

Trentham Bowling Club is looking forward to the 2023-2024 season. At the club’sannual meeting Rod justice was elected as president, with Pat Hopkin vice-president.

The club’sspecial $250 dealfor new members covers the whole 12 months’ there’salso junior memberships in different categories to encourage young golfers.

Peter Love continues as secretary,and Irene Bruton is treasurer.Committee members are VicLynas, Max Bruton, Catherine Pevitt, Bob Dobinson, Mavis O’Brien, Glenyse Laurie, Chris Perry and Kara Rowe.

New members are very welcome –contact any office-bearers for further information. The Highlands area pennant season draw is expected to be available shortly

Sherrill and Dean Lamb from Watts Fresh with the trophy

Kyneton Golf Club’sJames Rennick Memorial Trophy winner,Regan Williams.

Gallopersinwinning form

Gallopers trained at the famous Macedon Lodge complex were successful late last week.

On Thursday, top New Zealand trainer Andrew Forsman, who has asatellite stable at Macedon Lodge, won with

odds-on favourite Riproar at Bendigo.

It was Forsman’s first win in Victoria since relocating some of his gallopers to Mount Macedon.

Ridden by Damian Lane, Riproar is rated as aDerby prospect, and is

expected to improve on his run at Bendigo.

Liam Howley, who has stables at Macedon Lodge and Kyneton, was successful with New York Hurricane at Geelong on Friday.

Ridden by

Colts set to return

Campbells Creek Colts Cricket Club is returning to the Castlemaine District Cricket Association this summer 2023/24 after alengthy period of recess from 2015 to 2022.

Enthusiastic president James Collie will be assisted by vice-president John Prendergast.

the thrill ofcricket with the Campbells Creek Colts. Whether you're an experienced cricketer or someone just curious to learn, the club beckons you to step onto the field and give it your best shot.

Gisborne Soccer Club’s Under 12 girls defeated St Albans to advance to the final.

Gisborne girls finals bound

Disappointed with finishing runners up at the end of the season, Gisborne Soccer Club’s Under 12 girls quickly put it behind them and were determined they would be playing in the Football Victoria final.

As they headed to the Darebin International Sports Stadium in Thornbury,Vince'sgirls were greeted with picture-perfect pitches, aFootball Victoria referee and linesman, and glorious weather

The day was going to be special!

Playing St Albans, the only team in the season the Gisborne girls lost too, there was a point to prove.

With two early goals, one to Avaand one to Livv,both from textbook crosses from the wings, the girls surprised the very confident opposition. Indi, Chloe and Martha kept the backline solid, backing each other up and clearing the ball.

Heading into the second half up 3-1, with alimited bench and the warm weather draining, the girls all knew they were 30 minutes away from playing in the final.

Continuing to play wide, looking for crosses and backing each other up, the goals continued, another one from Avaand Livv and one from Jasmine. Aconvincing win for the girls and their coach.

With arenewed emphasis on community integration, the Colts are ready to embrace players of all ages and backgrounds, fostering asense of camaraderie that goes beyond the boundary

To that end, the club returns with an all-gender BGrade side and aWomen’s team.

At the forefront of this revival is the Colts' already successful junior cricket program, an essential building block for the club'sfuture. Young talent is being nurtured to shine on the cricketing stage, ensuring asteady pipeline of skilled players who proudly wear the Colts' jersey Embracing innovation to enhance player experiences, the Colts are excited to introduce cutting-edge AI technology to their arsenal.

Alongside the seasoned and skilled coaching team, this technology will provide an extra layer of support, helping players sharpen their skills and reach new heights onthe field.

Open arms welcome all to experience

In line with the club'scommitment to inclusivity,the Campbells Creek Colts are gearing up to launch their first women's team to the already thriving CDCA Women'scomp, emphasising that cricket is a game for everyone. The club envisions adiverse and vibrant community coming together to enjoy the sport.

Collie said the Colts boasted afresh and passionate committee thatwas determined to see the club thrive in the upcoming 2023-24 season.

"With astrong focus on fostering social connections and community bonds, the Colts aim to create an environment where lifelong friendships are forged both on and offthe field," Collie said.

"Excitingly,the shire’smaster plan to redevelop the Campbells Creek Recreation Reserve adds another layer of promise to the club'sjourney."This ambitious vision not only paves the way for upgraded infrastructure but also strengthens the Colts' position as apivotal community hub."

For more information and to be apart of this exciting journey,follow the Colts on Facebook and Instagram.

Jason Maskiel, New York Hurricane chalked up his third win, starting at double figure odds. He held on over the last 100 metres to narrowly win the Briseis Gold Cup Handicap.

New York Hurricane holds on to win at Geelong.

Photo: Reg Ryan/Racing Photos

Riproar, ridden by Damian Lane, finishes well to win at Bendigo.

Photo: Brett Holburt/Racing Photos

Campbells Creek Colts Cricket Club committee members (L-R) John Prendergast (vicepresident), James Collie (president), Monica Collie (secretary), Koby Tanner (general committee), and Michael Annear (treasurer) are excited about their return to the CDCA. Absent: Tayler Walsh (child safety officer).

Bowls begins October 7

After weeks of speculation about how many teams would be in different divisions, the fixtures for Highlands area bowls for the 20232024 season have just been released.

There will be 26 teams participating, with nine in each of the top two divisions, and eight in division 3. The top two divisions will play 18 rounds, and division three 14.

Lionswin back to back

The Harcourt Football Netball Club is celebrating after all four of its grand final contenders won their respective premiership showdowns in the Maryborough Castlemaine District Football Netball League last Saturday at Princes Park Maryborough.

The Lions Seniors capped offtheir undefeated season with an 11 point win over Carisbrook to claim back to back flags.

The Lions 17 &Under,15&Under and 13 &Under netballers also came out on top adding another three cups to the Harcourt FNC trophy cabinet!

It was an incredible day for the local region with six of our local contenders claiming premiership honours including the Maldon 17.5s footballers and the Newstead 11 &Under netballers.

Sadly,the Newstead 11.5s footballers and Trentham CGrade netball side were unable to go all the way but should be incredibly proud of their stellar 2023 seasons.

In the Seniors showdown it was acase of deja vu with Harcourt taking on last year's runner-up Carisbrook who were looking for redemption.

However,the Lions signaled their intentions early smashing on six goals to two in the opening term to lead by 23 points at quarter time.

To their credit Brook lifted in the second term and kicked two goals whilst holding Harcourt to one straight kick to bridge the gap to 14 points at half time.

The third quarter was areal arm wrestle with both sides applying ahugeamount of pressure and only getting two goals each on the board.

The Lions held a16point advantage at the final break.

Carisbrook did not lay down and in the last term kept coming at the Lions kicking

three goals.

But Harcourt held their nerve kicking two in reply to run out winners and secure back to back flags by 11 points.

The Lions Jordan Gartside won the Best on Ground medal.

Brook'sHarry Butler won the AFL Victoria Country Best on Ground.

Harcourt'sAlex Code lead the way with 3, Thomas Walters, Jed Rodda, Brayden Frost 2, Baxter Gurd and Kalan Huntly kicked 1each.

Topcontributors included Brayden Frost, Kalan Huntly,Thomas Walters, Cameron Anderson and Bryce Frost.

In the Reserves Carisbrook had a36 point win over Natte Bealiba.

Maldon triumphed in the 17.5s Football Grand Final defeating aspirited Carisbrook by 21 points.

The Donners made astrong start kicking three goals to the Redback'sone in the opening term.

Brook bounced back in the second stanza and kicked three goals whilst holding the Bombers to just one for the term and at half time Maldon ledbyone straight kick.

Maldon must have received arev up from their coaching staffathalf time as they cameout firing after the break and kicked another two goals and stifled Brook'sattempts on goal keeping them to just one point and extended their lead to 21 points at three quarter time.

Brook felt their finals hopes fading and threw everything they had at the Dons in the last term kicking another four goals. But Maldon showed their class answering the challenge with four of their own to win by 21 points.

Maldon'sNoah Thompson was named Best on Ground and the AFL Victorian Country Best onGround medal went to teammate Xavior Noy

Noy was on fire kicking 4goals, Flynn Rowbottom 2, Brodie Doyle 2and Thomas Smith 1.

Other top contributors were Callum Buchanan, Lochie Holman, andBlayne Cananzi.

In the 14.5s Football Carisbrook hada 90 point win over avaliant Avoca.

The 11.5s Football final saw Newstead give their all against adominant Natte Bealiba going down by 33 points.

Best for the Steaders were Fian Blundell, Jack Elliott, William Garsed, Elwood Ebery,XavierBritt and Wilbur Bunting.

Netball

AGradechamps were Avoca which defeated Carisbrook 51-39. Best on Court was Stacey Blair of Avoca.

In BGrade the tables were turned and the honours went to Carisbrook 33 which defeated Avoca 22. Best on Court was Brodey McKay of Avoca.

Trenthamgave their all in the CGrade grand final but opponents Avoca eventually ran away with a29-21 point win. Best on Court was Matilda Davis from Avoca.

Harcourt's17&Under side 35 accounted for adetermined Royal Park 23. It was an emotional matchsignalling Royal Park's final match before the clubmerger

Best on Court was TeganMcKayfrom Harcourt.

15 &Under sawHarcourt 33 defeat Royal Park 22. Best on Court was Harcourt'sMadeline Springate.

In the 13 &Under Final Harcourt 35 triumphed over Natte Bealiba 12. Best on court wasthe Lions Ellie Clifford.

The Newstead 11 &Under Netballers 14 defeated Natte Bealiba 12 in aclose battle which went down to the wire. Best on Court was Scarlett Ramsey from Newstead.

Grand finals at the QEO

Bendigo League football grand finals take place at the Queen Elizabeth Oval on Saturday,and in the three football clashes will be repeats of the second semi-finals that took place on September 8.

The Golden Square versus Sandhurst seniors match should be aclose contest.

In the semi-final between the two powerhouse sides Golden Square took control in the second half against the Dragons, eventually winning by 14 points.

Sandhurst bounced back in the preliminary final on Saturday with abrilliant last quarter which yielded six goals against Strathfieldsaye and a11.15 (81) to 11.7 (73) victory

The main match begins at 2.20pm.

In the Reserves, Eaglehawk will be ahot favourite against Sandhurst after a11.8 to 2.10 second semi-final victory Sandhurst led throughout on Saturday to defeat Strathfieldsaye Reserves 7.8 to 6.9 in the preliminary final.

Grand Final Day at the QEO begins with the Golden Square versus Gisborne Under 18s encounter

In their semi-final only seven goals were kicked, with Golden Square winning by 18 points.

Gisborne bounced back with avictory in the preliminary final on Saturday and hope to turn the tables on the Square and make it two premierships in succession.

Harcourt’s three netball sides were thrilled to win their grand final showdowns and claim premiership honours in the 17 &Under, 15 & Under and 13&Under divisions. Photos: Lisa Dennis

Premiers by awide margin

Bill West

After aseries of extremely close football finals, avery accomplished Diggers Rest wrapped up the Riddell League’s2023 senior premiership on Sunday, defeating Woodend-Hesket by 43 points.

In fine, sunny conditions at Romsey,acrowd of almost 4100 saw the Burras prove they are the best side in the competition, virtually wrapping up the grandfinal with a10.6 to 5.2 lead by half-time.

Earlier in the week Diggers Rest coachJamie Lobb declared his side was “ready for whatever WoodendHesket throws atus”, and this proved tobe the case.

The Burras simply had too much talent spread across the field, and the danger signs for the Hawks were there early as Diggers Rest moved the ball quickly and kicked 6.2 to 4.1 in ahigh-scoring first term.

The Hawks kicked the first two goals of the third term to lifttheir hopes of asecond-half revival, but successive goals soon snuffed out the challenge.

Diggers Restwas buoyed by their Reserves side earlier defeating Wallan 11.9 to 5.7 tomake amends for their second semi-final defeat.

Twopremierships capped offan unforgettable finals series for the Diggers Rest club, with the senior side surviving extra time to defeat Wallan in asemi-final, and the Reserves eliminating Woodend-Hesket in extra time in the preliminary final.

The only side to defeat Diggers Rest seniors this season was Riddell. The Bombers were eliminated by Romsey in atight elimination final.

Woodend-Hesket had agreat finals series with playing coachJosh Pound at the helm.

Players andsupporters andtownspeople had hoped the Hawks could produce their first premiership since 2007. Final scores were 16.9 (105) to 9.8 (62).

At the presentation of medals and the premiership cup, Poundacknowledged the Hawks had been beaten by abetter side.

He later acknowledged many of those who had done so much, on andoff thefield, to enable the Hawks to reach the grand final.

Pound also prasied the Woodend-Hesket netballers on their first-ever A-gradepremiership.

Lobb said it hadbeen awonderful finals series, and gavefull credit to the Hawks for making the grand final..

The Doug McIntyre Medal for best player on the ground, presented by Rob McIntyre, went to Diggers Rest dynamo Jaycob Hickey,inhis first season with the club.

Marcus Calvarese must have been astrong contender with four goals and blistering ball movement.

For Woodend-Hesket, TomGawthrop finished with four goals, and the Hawks’ best were listed as defender Tayte Pears, Harley Giddings, ruckman TimMartin, James Wiseman, Daniel Tomanand Dan Davie.

Gisborne teams in five grand finals

Gisborne Football Netball Club has five teams –four netball and one football –inBendigo League grand finals this Saturday

Netball senior coach Tarryn Rymer is pleased that four of the Gisborne club’snetball sides have been able to reach the grand finals.

The club’sonly netball side to miss out is B-Reserve, eliminated 42-32 by Kangaroo Flat in the preliminary final on Saturday

Remarkably,it’snow Sandhurst versus Gisborne in four grand finals at the Queen Elizabeth Oval.

The prestige A-grade encounter is arepeat of the second semi-final when the margin was six goals, with the

question being asked can the result be reversed this time.

Gisborne worked hard to account for Castlemaine 49-36 in Saturday’spreliminary final.

Other preliminary final results were:

A-Reserve: Gisborne 48 dKangaroo Flat 37.

B-grade: Sandhurst 47 dKangaroo Flat 42.

17&Under: Gisborne 46 dGolden Square 37.

GFNC is hoping for astrong cavalcade of supporters to be present on Saturday to cheer the girls on in what should be quality matches.

UNDER

18s IN WITH ASHOW

Gisborne Under 18s won the 2022 football grand final, and must be in with achance on Saturday when they tackle

astrong Golden Square line-up at 9.15am.

The young Bulldogs won their way into the grand final with astrong second half in the preliminary final against Sandhurst on Saturday.Inthe first half both sides struggled to put goals on the board, with the Bulldogs three points up at the ling break. Lifting intensity and combining well, Gisborne took control in the third quarter,shutting down their opponents and gig into the first term 25 points ahead.

It was more than sufficient, and aconfident side surged to a8.9 (61) to 3.6 (24) victory.Zac Paterson led the way with three gals. The Bulldogs’ best were listed as Jack Long, Frankie Ellis, Indy Williamson, Lachie Bianco, Lachlan Evans and Kane Minns.

Harley Giddings was named in the Hawks’ best

Woodend-Hesket’s James Wiseman battles his Diggers opponent for the ball

RunawayCats

MacedonU19.5 footballers produced apower-packed premiership performance on Sunday,demolishing Gisborne Giants by 99 points.

The Cats, who finished in third place on the ladder,reached the grand final at Romsey after defeating the ladder-leading Giants by 22 points in their semi-final. The Giants then thrashed Wallan by 95 points in the preliminary final.

in their second season of competition, were held to one point in the first half as the confident Macedon lineup grew in confidence as the match progressed.

Several of the Cats had been in the club’sU17s premiership side, and others had senior experience this season.

Macedon ended up winning 17.7 (109) to 1.4 (10), with Jack Ryan kicking the lone goal for the Giants in the last quarter

Brad Cooke, younger brother of the side’scoach and champion Macedon player Jason Cooke, won the Doug Rainey Medal for best afield.

Cooke kicked four goals and had numerous possessions, with the Cats’ best players also included Ed Ferguson, Dylan Johnstone, Alec McGregor,Leo Webb and Xavier Thorburn.

At the after-match presentations, Jason Cook praised his players, pointing out that aweek before the season began the Cats didn’t have enough players to field aU19.5s teams –but things progressively changed and he praised all who had been responsible.

He also commended the Giants on their performance in being the best team across the home and away matches.

Giants’ coach Mark Mackenzie congratulated Macedon on its premiership, and thanked his own players for their efforts this season.

He suggested that the Giants may have “played their grand final the previous weekend”.

Mackenzie said the season had been astep forward, and the Giants would be looking forward to 2024.

THE TEAM

The Macedon premiership team was:

B: Ed Ferguson, Angus Lynch, Ollie Coppin.

HB: Craig Brill, Zac Waddington, Xavier Thorburn.

C: Brad Cooke, Alec McGregor,Leo Webb.

HF: Hudd Elmawey,Riley Nolan, Charlie Ozanne.

F: Brodie Bauer,Michael Ruttledge, Fintan Light.

Ruck: Will Gray,Lachlan Hay,Dylan Johnstone.

Interchange: Shane Emery,Joe Barham, Jack and Paul McDonald.

Coach: Jason Cooke; assistant coach TomHildebrand.

FRI29SEP

20 23

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Extremely happy: Macedon’s Brad Cooke (at left) who won the Doug Rainey Medal for best afield, with premiership captain Alec McGregor.

Photo:CragCarrick

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Hawks makehistory Haawks make history

Frompage1

Woodend-Hesket’splayingcoach, Meg Grbac, agrees with this assessment, describing the players across the whole netball program at Woodend-Hesketasbeing brilliant to play with andcoach.

“It’sasuper supportiveand positive club culture which Ifeel lucky to be part of," Grbac said.

“I hope this win can putsmiles on some people’s faces .welove you all."

Woodend-Hesket’sco-president, AnneLouise Lindner,said the A-grade premiership was aremarkable achievement for theclub, and it madeupinpartfor lastseason’s grand final defeat.

Lindnerand long-time netball coordinator Kellie Duffhave played key roles in the developmentofnetball at Woodendfor quite some years

Captain Ty Coppinger,atalented and pressure-absorbing defender,received the medal for best on thecourt

Woodend-Hesket Netball Club continues to work with Macedon Ranges Shire Council on the development of two new netball courtsat GilbertGordon Reserve.

The club hopes these will be constructed in the off-season and be available forthe start of the 2024 season.

HOW THE MATCH UNFOLDED

Before an overflowing and noisycrowd, Woodend-Hesket and Riddell went goal for goal in the early stages, withfortunesfluctuating. It was 16-15 the Hawks’ way at half-time.

In the third quarter the Hawks edged ahead, only for theBeck Anstey-coached Bombers to fight back, as they have done throughout the finals.

The Hawks seemed to have victory in their grasp when they led31-27 with the clock ticking down. Missed shots created agony among spectators

Riddellrallied, and it was 33-33 with the ball near Riddell’sscoring area when the siren sounded.

Anotherextra time session of seven minutes each way.Riddell wasconfident,having ousted Macedon in extratimeinthe preliminary final.

Grbac kept her players calm, and Riddell’s shooters missed acouple of vital shots and the Hawks seemedtolift all overthe court Passes found their mark, andshots were on target.

The Hawks led 7-2atthe extra time changeover,and keptupthe momentum, eventually winning overall 44-37.

The Woodend premiership side comprised MatildaLethlean, Charlee Duff-Tytler,Laura Carland, Mackenzie Brown, HayleyRogers, Ty Coppinger,Meg Grbac; bench –Brooklyn Leahy,AbbyGilmore, Rebecca Carland, GeorgiaBowkett.

Riddellhad earlier won the B-grade final by six goals against Macedon, and had three sides in thefinals.

Western Rams took out the C-grade and 19&Under grand finals.

Riddell's BGrade netball premiers.

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