Midland Express Tuesday 10 January 2023

At the weekend, BlazeAid volunteer teams began the massive task of replacing/ clearing up fencing damaged by severe flooding on properties along the Deep Creek, from Lancefield to Darraweit Guim. Precisely how long the work will take is unpredictable at this stage, and there is aneed for more volunteers to join the BlazeAid campaign.

Volunteerism has been very apparent

and flooding in recent years.

Graeme Allen, aretired civil engineer from Woodend, is the project manager in charge of the Deep Creek campaign, with the BlazeAid base camp now established at the Rowallan Scout Camp in Riddells Creek.

Mr Allen has been working on BlazeAid projects since 2019, and recently completed two months in the Bridgewater area, which was also hit hard by flooding.

He urged any landowners along the creek, between Lancefield and Darraweit Guim, to make contact if they have not already done so in cases where fencing has been damaged, or debris is still to be removed.

“We will be pleased to work with them to rebuild fences,” he said.

Continued page 5.

Bill West

in Macedon Ranges following storms

“There is alot of damage to fences along the Deep Creek but not many landowners have sought assistance from us so far.”

LtoR:BlazeAid volunteers, Brian Quintal, Peter Ross, AndrewGibsonand David Hawkins, tackle fencingreplacement in the eastern partofthe Macedon Ranges over theweekend.

Castlemaine Hospital was hit by apower outage last Wednesday after which the facility's backup generators failed.

The incident resulted in ablackout of about an hour, with some patients turned away at the door and some staff sent home.

Dhelkaya Health CEO Sue Race said acomponent fault occurred during ascheduled generator test at about 11.20am Wednesday at the Castlemaine campus.

"This resulted in temporary disruption to the power supply, which in turn affected powered systems such as telephony and IT," Ms Race said.

"There was abrief delay as those systems restarted.

"In line with standard procedures, the hospital incident management team reviewed all service areas and determined that outpatient clinic appointments for the remainder of the day would be rescheduled. This decision was made to ensure clients would not be affected by any potential delays caused by systems restarting.

"Staff working in these client-facing roles were directed to work from home if possible within the scope of their roles."

Ms Race said the hospital's Urgent Care Centre remained open and staffed to ensure that anyone with urgent care needs would be seen immediately on arrival.

"As ahospital and aged-care provider, we have very clear and

established systems in place for managing incidents and emergencies, and these were enacted within minutes of the initial fault," she said.

"I would like to commend all staff for the swiftness of their response and the efficiency with which these incident management protocols were followed.

"I’d also like to extend my apologies to those whose appointments were rescheduled, and thank them for their patience and understanding."

OUTSOURCING

Ms Race also confirmed atransition to outsourced IT services for the hospital was in place from last Friday.

She said Castlemaine Health and Maldon Hospital, now integrated as Dhelkaya Health, would be provided with Information Communications Technology support from Loddon Mallee Shared Services.

"LMSS will have an on-site presence at our Castlemaine campus from Monday to Friday and they will also provide after-hours support for priority issues," she said.

"LMSS is ashared-service model operating from Bendigo Health that provides ICT support to all health services operating in the Loddon Mallee region."

Fire at Kyneton meatworks

Firefighters were called to the scene of factory fire at Hardwicks Meatworks in Kyneton last Friday afternoon.

Incident controller Tristian Smith said the alarm was raised about 3pm after air conditioning units in the roof of acoolstore area caught fire.

"CFA worked alongside Harwdwicks management to return the facility to operation. Asection of the facility will have to be

repaired," Mr Smith said.

About 100 staff were evacuated and no one was injured. There were no injuries to livestock.

Thirteen appliances attended from Kyneton, Lancefield, Woodend, Malmsbury, Carlsruhe and Tylden, assisted by aladder platform from Fire Rescue Victoria.

Police, WorkSafe Victoria and Macedon Ranges Shire Council were also on scene.

Castlemaine Hospital was hit by apower outage last Wednesday.

Morecameras roll out in trial

More point-to-point road safety cameras have been installed on the Calder Freeway since the test program began early last year. Additional solo cameras have also been installed as part of amulti-year trial of new road safety camera technology.

Aspokesperson from the Department of Justice and Community Safety said the cameras would be operational later this year but there were no plans for them to issue infringements to drivers.

“The cameras are test cameras only, designed to trial the benefits of emerging P2P technology from arange of suppliers,” the spokesperson said.

“The Calder Freeway is currently the only trial locationinVictoria for P2P technology.”

P2P cameras calculate the average speed of vehicles by assessing the time taken to travel between two points –ifthe calculated average speed exceeds the speed limit, the incident is accepted and sent for verification.

Cameras positioned at each ‘point’ take aset of digital images and also measure the speed of avehicle at that location.

While they are being permanently installed as part of the trial, thetest cameras are non-enforceable and will not result in speeding finesfor road users.

The trial P2P cameras are located at numerous points of a28-kilometre stretch, along the northbound andsouthbound section of the Calder Freeway between Macedon and Diggers Rest.

More point-to-point road safety cameras have been installed on the Calder Freewaysince the test program began earlylastyear.Photo:Brian Wilson, ietsystems.com.au

BlazeAid on the job

From page 1.

The first BlazeAid teams to tackle fencing replacement in the eastern part of the Macedon Ranges were busy on two properties not far from Romsey over the weekend.

Additional volunteers from Macedon Ranges, or further afield, will also be very welcome, irrespective of the amount of time they can devote to helping out.

Mr Allen can be contacted by phoning 0477 488 434.

BlazeAid volunteers come from far and wide, some are retired people who travel around Australia but stop to help when BlazeAid is working in particular areas.

The BlazeAid organisation grew from the ashes of Black Saturday, the disastrous and deadly fires of February 7, 2009.

The founders were Kilmore East farming couple, Kevin and Rhonda Butler.

Over the years the BlazeAid organisation, which relies on the generosity of donors to stay afloat, has spread Australia-wide. It has received widespread recognition from government and other authorities.

Volunteers can spent months working in disaster-affected areas helping individuals and families.

Along Deep Creek, some property owners have already carried out partial restoration works on flood-ravaged fencelines, but others simply have not had the time or means to tackle the task.

Arrests over stolen firearms

Two men from Riddells Creek and two from Bullengarook were among eight people arrested after detectives uncovered acache of stolen firearms and atreasure trove of stolen goods last Thursday.

Following athree-month investigation, detectives from the Western Region Crime Squad and officers from the K9 Unit executed aseries of search warrants and Firearm Prohibition Orders at six residential addresses in Sunbury, Riddells Creek and Bullengarook.

During the searches, police seized five allegedly stolen firearms including three double barrel shotguns and one .22 rifle allegedly stolen from aCherokee home in November 2022.

Police also seized anumberofallegedly stolen vehicles.

Those arrested by police included a 33-year-old man and a53-year-old man from Riddells Creek who were charged with handle stolen goods, possess proceeds of crime and possess ammunition; and a27-year-old man and a29-year-old man from Bullengarook, with charges pending for handle stolen goods and possess proceeds of crime.

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At Girton, student wellbeing always comesfirst, before teaching even begins. Apositive,nurturing cultureopensthe mindsof children of allagestolearning and success

Girton is an inclusive School that welcomes children and their families from a diverse range of backgrounds and circumstances

We are non selective, which means we don’t exclude students due to academic ability, but rather we support them to achieve their potential It’s an approach that delivers exceptional outcomes and preferred futures.

Discover the opportunitiesa Girton education couldprovide foryourchild. Bookyourplace on ourSchoolTourby contacting The Registrarvia email: registrar@girton.vic.edu.au, or see our website: girton.vic.edu.au

Graeme Allen BlazeAid project managerfor the Deep Creek properties.

Master and apprentice to exhibit together

Anew visual art exhibition has opened in regional Victoria, showcasing the work of Trentham printmaker and artist Dianne Longley and her Elphinstone-based student Marylou Verberne.

The exhibition opened at St Arnaud Raillery Arts Hub last Saturday and runs until February 26. Local art lovers are encouraged to make the trek across to the venue to seethe highly anticipated offering.

Exploring themes of the curious, the fantastic and the grotesque, the exhibition will feature an eclectic mix of techniques, materials and processes.

Dianne has had numerous solo and group exhibitions, and conducted workshops in printmaking, digital imaging, encaustic work and artist books in Australia, United States, Japan, Greece and the United Kingdom.

Dianne said she was thrilled to be showcasing her work in rural Victoria where she has resided for the past eight years.

“The exhibition is auniquedisplay of fine art prints, large CNC engraved wooden works, mixed media cyanotypes, works on metal, and small bronzes cast from cuttlefish bones,” she said.

“I’ve been mentoring emerging artists for many years, whether that be teaching arange of subjects at tertiary institutions or

“Just before the pandemic, Idecided to follow alifelong desire to become an artist and build my art practice from beyond just being ahobby,something I’ve always been passionate about,” Marylou said.

“I didn’t want to go back to university and do another degree, so having the mentorship by Dianne was agreat option for me. It’s been asteep learning curve, but coming to this later in life, it has been an incredible experience to work so closely with such an experienced artist.”

“The opportunity to exhibit my work for the first time in my local community is special. My work focuses on landscapes with corroding buildings, capturing the present infrastructure and how it has been swallowed up in time, by nature. Ihope the theme of ‘Change is the Only Constant’ resonates.” The St Arnaud Raillery Arts Hub is located in Queens Avenue, St Arnaud and is open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 11am to 4pm.

Printmaker and artist Dianne Longleyispictured in her Trentham studio. (Right) Elphinstone artist Marylou Verberne hones her craft at Agave Print Studio.

running my own classes at Agave Print Studio in Trentham for anyone eager to develop their skills. Iamdelighted to launch a joint exhibition with Marylou to showcase local emerging talent.”

Elphinstone local Marylou Verberne joined the Agave Print Studio in 2019 to hone her printmaking skills.

Rubbishmarsthe marshland

Angela Crawford

ANew Gisborne resident has raised the alarm over alarge amount of debris and rubbish polluting the Gisborne Marshlands.

The resident said he suspected the debris had been blown into the marshlands from a nearby housing construction site during recent strong winds.

“The last big wind saw large amounts of broken polystyrene in the marshlands and lakes, but little appears to have been done to resolve this ongoing pollution problem,” he said.

“It’s adisgrace how the marshlands and its lakes can be so disregarded when it comes to protecting it from the pollution brought on by developments in the Gisborne area.

“We can’t do much regarding the increased number of people living in the area, but then building for this, there does need to be some standards regarding control of waste and pollution.”

Rob Ball, acting director of planning and environment with Macedon Ranges Shire

Council, said the council actively managed the Gisborne Marshlands and this included regular monitoring and maintenance.

“It is disappointing to see this occurrence within the marshlands –our teams are organising aprompt investigation and cleanup where required,” Mr Ball said.

“We will also liaise with the nearby Steam Park land managers for any additional cleanup necessary while we are there.”

Mr Ball said council’s local laws officers could instruct builders and construction site managers to properly secure building waste to the site.

Parties found non-compliant may be fined and instructed to remove any waste.

“We are always grateful for any public reporting of prohibited rubbish or debris and will investigate where necessary,” he said.

“If you believe waste materials are not being adequately constrained to aproperty, we encourage you to assist us by reporting the matter to council by calling 5422 0333 or emailing mrsc@mrsc.vic.gov.au.”

Broken polystyrene is strewn across the Gisborne Marshlands.

Five decades of drumming

Lisa Dennis

Castlemaine Highland Pipe Band stalwart, Trevor Kuhle, has been recognised for 50 years’ participation in the annual Maryborough Highland Gathering.

This year marked the 160th anniversary of the highly anticipated New Year’s Day event, which draws Scots and admirers from across the country and further afield.

Trevor, 65, said he was shocked but deeply humbled to be recognised for his role in supporting the long-running event.

The drum sergeant has been playing side drum with the local pipe band since he was 12.

The musician recalls his first experience with the pipe band was when he was in hospital as athree-year-old and the band came to perform for patients.

Years later ayoung Trevor encountered them again when his father took him along to some fundraising dances at Barkers Creek.

“My Dad’s workmates from Rowe Motors, Ian and Neil Wilson, invited us along. When Iheard the drum Iknew it was the instrument for me,” Trevor told the Express

When asked what drew him into the band, Scottish ancestry or the music, Trevor’s wife Annette, aScot, laughed.

“They say there are Scots and those who’d like to be Scots!” she said.

Trevor confesses he is actually of German descent but the music drew him in and he has loved the camaraderie and friendships made during his time with the band.

“Discussions can get passionate at times! There is huge respect for the music and traditions,” he said.

“Back in 1910 Castlemaine actually had two highland pipe bands –a men’s band and aladies’ band. However, both eventually folded.

“In the early 1950s the new band was formed and was strongly supported by the community, with extensive Scottish connections.

“I had some wonderful mentors in the early days and it’s great to be able to pass those skills onto the next generation.”

Trevor has been proud to join the band at performances at The Melbourne Show, Maryborough Highland Gathering, Scots Day Out in Bendigo, and the Melbourne Cup where a‘mass band’ would perform as the Governor opened the event.

The band also regularly took part in competitions and featured at local events, including the annual Castlemaine and District Agricultural Show grand parade in which the local band made its debut performance back in 1953.

“Performing at Australia Day and Anzac Day are always personal highlights,” Trevor confesses.

Another highlight came in 2019 when the Aussie drummer joined apiper to performat Annette’s cousin’s wedding in Scotland.

“I was later invited to perform as part of a mass band at the nearby Dunrobin Castle, which was incredible.

“Over the years I’ve developed ataste for haggis, but Istill can’t come at black pudding,” he joked.

He has been attending the Maryborough Highland Gathering since he was 15 and in later years attended the event with three of his four sons who also joined the band.

Trevor would love to see more young people joining their ranks to keep the tradition alive.

“We’d love to hear from any local pipers or drummers who would like to join us, or those with akeenear formusic willingly to learn. Of course you have to be comfortable to wear akilt!,” he laughs.

Trevor Kuhle is proudlypictured in his Castlemaine Highland Pipe Band summer attire with his Maryborough Highland Gathering 50-year certificate of recognition.

Japaneseart exhibitionunveiled

Lot

Growing

While completing aBachelor of Fine Arts, she embraced the innate Japanese influence that was becoming evident in her art, and initiated her own study of Japanese art as it was almost non-existent in Australia at that time.

Over the years, Isabelle garnered knowledge, skill and techniques of Western-style art, but her thirst for Japanese styles of art grew. In 2010, she was awestruck by an artist named Hidekichi Shitemoto and their live painting

performances, and in 2016, after aperiod of feeling stagnant as an artist, Isabelle travelled to Japan to take up a residency at Studio Kura in Kyushu.

There she attended aKodaimoji (ancient Kanji script) lesson by Kenryo Hara, the master of Bokkoku, and after holding ahuge brush loaded with Sumi-e ink, she was revived! Isabelle relocated to Japan soon after to continue studying Kodaimoji and Sumi-e techniques.

Isabelle works intuitively so her art varies from being purely Kodaimoji to afusion of Kodaimoji and Sumi-e painting.

Her artistic journey continues to evolve in her attempts to express inner truth, and discover the hidden essence of Japanese calligraphy, art and culture.

The latest exhibition focuses on art Isabelle created

Motorcyclist injured

Afemale motorcyclist was injured in a collision between amotorbike and acar at the intersection of the Pyrenees Highway and Harmony Way at Elphinstone last Friday morning.

Castlemaine Police reported that the driver of the car was turning onto the Pyrenees Highway from Harmony Way and failed to give way to the motorcyclist who was travelling along the 100km/h section of the Pyrenees Highway.

The 33-year-old motorcyclist suffered

upper body injuries in the accident and was taken to Bendigo Hospital for treatment.

Pool break-in

Due to abreak in and vandalism at Castlemaine Pool on Saturday night, the pool was unable to open at its scheduled 11am open time on Sunday.

Staff members worked hard to get the pool cleaned up and were eventually able to open the gates at 2pm Sunday afternoon.

while living and studying Kodaimoji, the ancient form of Kanji, Japanese Sumi-e Ink painting, in Japan for five years.

Isabelle will do alive painting performance, accompanied by live music on Saturday January 21.

The performance tells aJapanese folk story about the complicated relationship between aJapanese Sea Princess and ahunter.

The performance is accompanied by recorded music composed by Shigeyuki Konita and the music is played by his band, Kashiko. The visual images are of Sumi-e paintings and Kodaimoji (ancient form of Japanese Kanji) will be painted live in front of your eyes as the story evolves.

See the Lot 19 website for details.

19 Art Precinct in Langslow Street was excited to launch its first exhibition of 2023 last weekend, Isabelle Kawai Vincent's It's too Black and White

up the first second-generation Japanese Australian in Castlemaine, Isabelle Kawai Vincent was surrounded by Japanese images from books, magazines, posters, kimonos, Japanese ornaments and music.

Isabelle Kawai Vincent. Asneak peek at one of Isabelle’slatest works.

Free fishing expo in Feb

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre will host the tenth World Recreational Fishing Conference, Ultimate Fishing Expo in February.

The free expo on February 18-19 will be aweekend extravaganza of expert speakers and fishing celebrities, activities for the entire family to enjoy, and all the latest in fishing gear, boats and equipment.

In between activities there will be presentations from experts including Paul and Jed Worsteling on alifetime of family fishing, David Kramer on Victoria’s world-class fishing opportunities, Lubin Pfeiffer and Terry George on trout fisheries, Colby Lesko and Kate Norman on catching big murray cod including at Lake Eildon, Sascha and Andy Danylchuk from the USA on ‘Keep Fish Wet’ and the latest in catch and release, and April Vokey on a flyfishing girl’s perspective from North America and around the world.

For the expo’s schedule on Saturday and Sunday, visit: vfa.vic.gov.au/ ultimatefishingexpo or visit: wrfc10.com to learn more about the World Recreational Fishing Conference.

Songs full of lyrical imagery

Melbourne songwriter Tim Downey explores the light and shadow of life’s mysteries.

His songs are full of lyrical imagery that paints a bittersweet and sometimes abstract reality.

Since its inception in 2017, folk rock band Beautiful Buildings has been the focus of Tim’s musical output, writing and performing alongside friend and collaborator Di Casey. Their vocal harmonies feature in all of their work, characterising the band’s sound.

Fast forward to today and Tim and Di are poised to release their second single, Waking Up, along with new bandmates who helped bring the song to life in the studio.

The song describes a process of enlightenment. Switching yourself on after years of aimless drifting, and the idea that there is more fulfilment to be found in one’s inner world.

Catch them at the Taproom at Shedshaker Brewery this coming Friday from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. Entry is free.

Leadership and mentoring

Rural women across the state can now apply for the 2023 Rural Women’s Network Leadership and Mentoring Programs.

Both programs aim to encourage and empower participants to have an active voice and role in the agriculture sector.

•The 2023 Leadership Program will provide women with support to participate in training and study that accelerates their development as leaders. Participants will also work closely as agroup to explore

issues impacting rural women, learn from subject matter experts, and connect with other rural women from across Victoria.

•The 2023 Mentoring Program will pair rural women together for apeer-to-peer exchange of skills and experience. Working with skilled facilitators, participants will identify individual, career or business goals and work to implement change with the support of their mentoring partner.

Applications close February 13. Visit the Agriculture Victoria website to apply.

Folk rock band Beautiful Buildings is playing at the Taproom at Shedshaker BreweryonFridaynight.

Two of the greats

Two of the greatest musicians in Australia’s country rock, folk and blues genres will take the stage at Mia Mia this coming Sunday afternoon.

Paul Wookey and Rod McCormack are both Golden Guitar winners from Tamworth, but are both so much more than country musicians.

Wookey has been lead guitar for blues great Jimmy Witherspoon, has shared astage with another USA blues great, John Hammond, has worked with country rock legends Vince Gill and Albert Lee, has his own rock ‘n’ roll band, and reveres Eric Clapton and Woody Guthrie. He was the first-ever musician to play at Melbourne’s Troubadour, back in 1978, and has been afull-time musician for more than 45 years.

McCormack is half ageneration younger than Wookey, and has also been performing since his teens. He’s amulti-instrumentalist featuring guitar, mandolin, banjo, lap-steel, keyboards and lots more. He has also won banjo championships in three states in the USA.

McCormack is asongwriter with 400 songs recorded, 30 of which became no.1 hits on the country charts and has toured with Johnny Cash, Glen Campbell, Trisha Yearwood, Leanne Rimes and, of course, his wife Gina Jeffreys. He’s played on recordings for KD Lang, Jimmy Barnes, Guy Sebastian, Kasey Chambers and many more.

And most of all he is arevered record producer and at his studio on the NSW Central Coast has recorded just about everybody on Australia’s country, folk and country rock scenes.

As well as playing adiverse range of music, Wookey and McCormack will be presenting abrief History Of Country Music, featuring classic songs by Jimmie Rodgers, Hank Williams, Buck Owens, George Jones, Merle Haggard and more, at Burke and Wills Winery’s verandah concert on Sunday.

For booking go to www.wineandmusic.net, or phone 5425 5400, or email wineandmusic@bigpond.com

BABBA headed to the Theatre Royal

“Dare Isay it!Asgood asABBA” –MollyMeldrum. Whataway tostart an editorial on one ofthe longest running tribute shows here in Australia. From BABBA’s very beginning’s back on December 2, 1994, there was something very special about this talented group of vocalists and musicians.

During those 28 years the band has thrilled audiences throughout South East Asia, New Zealand, the Maldives, the Gallipoli Cruise from Perth to Italy and across Australia. Members Michael Ingvarson (Benny), Ben Provest (Bjorn), Susie King (Agnetha), Jacqueline Hamilton (Frida) and Paul Edsall (drums) have been serving up the hits tosold-out shows in 2022.

One of the biggest highlights for BABBA was their performance at the Hong Kong Jockey Clubs –Swedish Nightat the

end of 2019 right before COVID-19 hit the world. Asapart ofthe festivities, Benny Andersson from ABBA was also in attendance as aguest ofthe Swedishconsulate in Hong Kong. After heconcluded his duties, Benny came to the Jockey Club whereBABBA were performing Winner Takes it All at the time. At the conclusion of the song Benny took the stage with the BABBA members and spent time chatting with each person and then stayed to have photos taken with them. Benny was very complimentary of what BABBA were doing and thebandwereblown away!

You can catch them live at theTheatre Royal Castlemaine on Saturday January 21.

Doors open at 8pmfor two 50-minute sets of ABBA hits. Tickets available from www.babba.com.au

Cometogether

Come together this Australia Day –Survival Day for afree, family-friendly event at Castlemaine’s Victory Park from 10am to 2pm.

The event will include aWelcome to Country, citizenship ceremony, and the presentation of Mount Alexander Shire Australia Day Awards. It will also include a concert programmed and emceed by Dja Dja Wurrung Elder Uncle Rick Nelson.

In 2018, under the leadership of Dja Dja Wurrung Elders, council decided to formally dual name events held on January 26 as Australia Day –SurvivalDay, to create an event where all community members were represented, included and celebrated.

babba.com.au

Paul Wookeyand Rod McCormackwill take the stage at Mia Mia this coming Sundayafternoon.

Local knowledge (1 point)

How many races did jockey Arron Lynch win at the New Year’s Day race meeting at Hanging Rock?

Where is Telstra’s new mobile base station located in Woodend?

What is the name of the Macedon Ranges Vignerons Association’s January festival?

What is the name of the new brewery and restaurant in Lancefield? (3 points) 5. Where is the Tipperary Walking Track located?

General knowledge (1 point) 6. Which country is largest in area, Australia or Brazil? 7. How many toes do guinea pigs have? 8. Where in the world is Casablanca? 9. What does the French word genre refer to? (3 points)

10. Complete the following lyric from Led Zeppelin’s Stairway to Heaven:Inatree by the brook

Let's strengthen CAM

JamesMcArdle, Castlemaine

2023 heralds the 110th anniversary of the Castlemaine Art Museum.

Founded by Castlemaine women who wanted their children to see art of high quality in their home town, and who also envisaged amuseum representing the history of the settlement, by 1931, in the midst of the Great Depression, they had proudly purpose-built its current fine home. It still attracts enthusiastic volunteers.

The institution is increasingly recognising and displaying First Nations art and history, and is broadening its audience appeal.

Iwrite out of concern that CAM may not see its 111th year. Responsibly, the organisation will not access the $6 million state government capital works grant until its ongoing operational funding is secure. Other regional galleries are sustained by their municipal councils, such as those with similar populations receiving at least more than eight times the level of local government funding in comparison. Mount Alexander Shire Council provides$30,580 operational funding to CAM, paling in comparison to galleries such as Horsham Regional Art Gallery and Hamilton Art Gallery.

The organisation intends to deliver avibrant program of exhibitions, artist commissions and public programs over the next 12 months, however there are serious concerns about its financial ability to continue operating beyond mid-2023. CAM created an end-of-year fundraising campaign to make astrong case to government for further operational funding.

Are you able to contribute to its survival; or can you suggest the idea to someone who can? The current 100 for $1000 campaign at castlemaineartmuseum.org.au/ support needs your help to raise funds and demonstrate strong community investment in the gallery.

Such alevel of support will strengthen the case in CAM’s applications for sustainable government funding.

Positivechange

Charles Gauci, director, Prosperity Park

Re.Your article regarding the new petrol station that is proposed for Elphinstone ('VCAT overturns servo decision', Express,December 13, 2022).

As one of the directors of Prosperity Park, the applicant, I'd like to shed some light on council's comments regarding us trying tobribe objectors during the planning process.

Ithinkthe article paints us in asleazy and corrupt light when Ican assure you that if anyone's dealings were questionable during the planning process it was the council's. People seem to be of the opinion that as adeveloper trying to bring about change, you're some privileged white male. Well Ican assure you that isn't the case. I'm aregular Joe with abig mortgage just trying to pay the bills and raise afamily who grew up in the commission flats in Prahran in the early '70s with my three siblings. And before that we shared atwo-bedroom flat in St Kilda with my aunt and four cousins. Yes, eight kids and two women, both single mothers who'd fled domestic violence.

Since my stepfather was killed in a tragic car accident, I've made it apersonal quest to try to improve road safety and encourage drivers to stop, revive and survive their journeys on our appalling roads.

On that note, if council were at all serious about road safety, the first thing they would do is to lower the speed limit in front of the subject property from 100k/ ph, to 80k/ph. Especially as it sits at the junction of two rural freeways and is only 200 metres from afreeway interchange. The suggested reduction to the speed limit would make no difference to travel times and would increase road safety considerably. The one thing Ican do to bring about change is to provide modern and convenient refuelling/recharging facilities in locations where they are badly needed and where the regulations permit, as is the case at Elphinstone.

As for the legality of it, well Ithink it's safe to say that the member for VCAT made the right call on this occasion and if the system were more just, we'd be able to retrieve our costs from council for wasting our time and money and the money of their ratepayers, which could have been better spent on this very road.

Iwill take great delight when Ifinally see this facility built knowing that it will provide jobs and community benefit for years to come, contribute to road safety and aid the electrical charging infrastructure rollout.

Unfitfor purpose

Hans Paas, Castlemaine

ANew Year and the post-floods road maintenance debacle is set to plague road users in Victoria for many more months to come. After speedy non-urgent repairs to the Calder Freeway near the Ravenswood interchange and Big Hill, the urgency to reopen one of the lanes continues to be ignored by Regional Roads Victoria. In addition, lane closures and speed limits continue to apply on both sides of what one motorist aptly called this goat track in the vicinity of Woodend and Carlsruhe. The'set and forget' approach now reigns supreme.

Meanwhile damaged road surfaces are causing tyre blowouts, crashes and injuries, all of which our government road agency and the TAC appear to be oblivious to. Not so long ago these kind of repairs were carried out within afew days or at most aweekortwo after the damage wassustained. Nowadays budgets trump busted roads and the neglect continues for month after month. Even the repairs that have been done for example on the stretch between the Castlemaine turnoff and Fogartys Gap Road were tokenistic with long stretches that still pool water nearthe centreline and create arisk of aqua-planing carsout of control.

We have become used to roads that are not fit for purpose supposedly maintained by an organisation that is now very clearly becoming unfit for purpose.

Managing bushfire risk

Forest Fire Management Victoria chief fire officer, Chris Hardman, has penned an open letter to the community as the organisation and its partners work to manage Victoria's bushfire risk during wetter seasons and beyond...

This year, many Victorians have experienced extreme weather with heavy rain and flooding. Our changing climate means these events are becoming more frequent and extreme.

The recent State of the Climate report by the Bureau of Meteorology and CSIRO confirms that changes to weather and climate extremes are happening at an increased pace across Australia.

In the coming decades, we will see an increase in the number of dangerous fire weather days and alonger fire season for southern and eastern Australia.

Even though conditions have been wetter through most of the state this year, FFMVic has continued to take action to manage bushfire risk.

Victoria is Australia’s most bushfireprone state. By investing in prevention, we aim to protect people, property and the environment by reducing the risk and impact of major bushfires.

We look for opportunities year-round to conduct planned burns that will protect people, and our environment –including forests, their wildlife and biodiversity –from bushfires this summer and in the drier years to come.

We burn to the conditions, not the calendar.

Although we don’t expect many longrunning or large forest fires this summer,

areas across the north and west of the state may see increasing fire potential from midsummer, especially in areas of high grass growth.

Drier forests, woodlands and heathlands are also at risk of fires with the onset of hot and dry weather conditions.

The wetter weather has presented opportunities for different types of burning. In some areas, the higher levels of moisture in the soil and natural gullies have allowed our crews to conduct lower-intensity burns. The gullies act as natural boundaries for the fire, which is not always possible during drier conditions. Planned burningisnot the only way we manage bushfire risk and reduce fuel like grass, leaf litter, twigs, bark

and vegetation. We’ve increased our use of mowing, slashing and mulching and we’ve expanded our network of strategic fuel breaks to better protect against bushfires. These strips of land are in the highest priority locations –close to towns, water catchments and sensitive environments.

We have also upgraded our infrastructure, including forest roads, fire dams and fire lookout towers.

In addition toour bushfire risk management program, FFMVic, together with Country Fire Authority, is continuing to support Traditional Owners to use cultural fire on Country. More than 200 cultural burns are planned over the next three years.

We work with CFA, Fire Rescue Victoria, local government and communities to deliver the best local approaches to bushfire risk management in Victoria.

While FFMVic does avital job managing bushfire risk, Iencourage all Victorians to ensure they have the right information, tools and actions toprepare for fires.

This means familiarising yourself with the new Australian Fire Danger Rating System. This system is the same across Australia, so you can assess risk and take action if needed, wherever you are.

If you live on or near land that is at bushfire risk, make sure tofollow the Fire Ready Kit from CFA. If you’re camping this summer, do not leave campfires unattended and make sure the ashes are cool totouch before you leave.

You can find out when planned burns are happening in your area by signing up at plannedburns.ffm.vic.gov.au and make sure you have the VicEmergency app on your phone.

Forest Fire Management Victoriachief fire officer Chris Hardman. Photo: MarciaRiederer

PETCARE

Time forschool?

Have you recently adopted apuppy into your family?

Adopting adog over the festive season allows you to spend abit of time with them and introduce them to anew environment before you get back into work, school or those general activity routines. But what happens when they need further training?

The answer is puppy school!

One of the most influential periods for apuppy is between eight and 14 weeks of age, and during this time it is recommended they are enrolled in school.

Puppy school will provide families with information to help the newest member of your team adapt, as well as provide an introduction to canine socialising and basic obedience.

Puppy school teachers focus on canine behaviour and can help answer any questions you have about your new family addition.

Although many puppy schools have an age restriction for their activities, the Gisborne Veterinary Clinic also provides an information session, open to any person who would like to attend. Also, 2023 will see an introduction to aclass for adolescents aged 14 weeks to 12 months.

Bookings are required for each of these activities and limited places will be available. If you are interested in attending any these classes, more information can be found on the clinic’s website, or have achat with reception at the Gisborne Veterinary Clinic on 5428 2805.

Your animals and fire

Have you got abushfire survival plan for your family? As well as having one for the people in your household, you need one for your pets and livestock too, even if you live in atown.

While you should always put your own safety above the safety of your animals, it’s important to ensure you have aplan for them in the event of afire, the CFA says.

CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan says during high-risk bushfire days, make sure you have bedding, food and water ready to go and make sure you have safe transport for them when leaving early.

“You can make sure your pets can be easily identified by microchipping themand including your details such as your phone number ontheir collars,” Mr Heffernan says.

“Consider whether your leave-early destination canaccommodate your pets.

“You should also practise how you will move your pets if you leave. It takes longer than you think.

“A separate plan is needed for horses and livestock as late evacuationwill putthem and you at risk.”

Livestock owners can be well prepared to make sure theiranimals are protected.

Grassfires present the biggest risk to a farming property, but for manylandowners locally, bushfire risk is there as well.

Prepare the livestock with sufficient water and do aquick check of private firefighting equipment on the farm.

Try to get feeding done either the day before ahigh fire risk day or really early in the morning –this way you can avoid using tractors and machinery as much as possible, as they can also pose ariskofstartingfires in paddocks.

Make sure it’s not alast-minute thought to have to move the cows, or any animals for that matter, and ensure they’re as safe as

they possibly can be.

It’s safest for horses and livestock to be in alarge, well-grazed area on your property where they can move freely with asupply of water.

Remember to remove all gear from horses and open internal gates to allow them to move around.

Do not allow them to roam freely off your property as horses and livestock are aserious risk on roads where visibility will be poor in the event of afire.

For more information and tipson howto keep your pets and livestock safe during high bushfire risk days, visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au/ pets.

Your pet bushfire relocation kit

*Food andwater

*Asecond collar andlead

*Acarrier for cats andsmaller pets

*Bedding and awoollen blanket

*Apet first-aid kit –seek your vet’s advice

*Any medications, along with awritten list of what they are

*Your pet’s medical history, including proof of vaccination, and your vet’s contact details Tips for keeping pets cool

*Havefresh, cold water available at all times

*Ensure your pet has shade at all times or bring them inside into acool room

*Wipe your pet down with acool, damp towel or leave wet towels out for them to lie on

*Wet your dog with cool water several times throughout the day

*For cats, rub damp handsover their coat or along their tummy

*Place ice in apillowcase and place it near your pets

*Consider having your dog clipped if their coat islong and thick

*Never leave your pets in avehicle on ahot day

Hot diggity dog!

Pet of the Month

Tootsie is anine-year-old norwich terrier (just like from the movie Best in Show)who lives in Los Angeles.

She is aretired champion and two of her daughters, Rosé and Butters, are also champions.

Tootsie is originally from Oregon but was adopted by aCalifornian when she retired. She is very sweet but does not like going on walks and barks at any dog she sees on TV. But being aformer ‘showie’ she likes attention and doesn’t mind dressing up. But she just hoped nobody would see her in this latest creation, ahotdog outfit, which by the way, was purchased especially for her for last year’s Halloween. She wore it only once! For her endurance and tolerance, Tootsie is our Pet of the Month.

Heart andhistory

There's heart and history to this Taradale homestead. Loved by the same family for five generations it's now time for the next custodian to welcome this historic 1800s property into their lives. Wrapped in lush pastures, ameandering creek, and with the iconic bluestone Taradale Viaduct as your backdrop, the property feels as much like a sanctuary as it does apeaceful and practical place to live.

The weatherboard residence (updated over time) is remarkably generous, with four bedrooms (original cedar windows) providing ample accommodation. With apitched ceiling and mix of textures of the era, the hub of the home revolves around acountry-chic kitchen with big gas oven/ cooktop and carpeted lounge drawing morning light. Awoodfireheater and split AC keep the home comfortable year-round, while arelocatable, self-contained flat (featuring two bedrooms, one bathroom, and lounge with woodfire heater) adds versatility to the future of this country estate. Dotted across the grounds (approx. 4888m2 on title, afurther 5000m2 on peppercorn rent) you'll discover asail-shaded courtyard, shedding, carport, stables, cattle yards, and two paddocks with perennial springs (ideal for livestock). Yet the beauty is in the garden itself -picture perfect and neat as apin, there's weeping cherries, cherry blossoms, and agrand oaktree planted by original owners around 150 years ago. The hero for many a

wedding and Christmas over the decades, there's a welcoming sense of warmth and calm you'll feel as you wander with wonder around this unique place to call home.

It's country charm at its finest and worthy of your interest.

Referring to afeeling, mood, or an atmosphere containing something pleasant, relaxed, safe, and comfortable is the word from the Danish and old Norwegian languages, 'hyggelig'. It's also the name -and the description -ofthe property at 405 Heathcote-Redesdale Road. Set across 10 acres bordered by the Argyle State Forest, Hyggelig is aplace for families to relax and entertain, to play and grow. Apeaceful, private escape with hidden garden rooms and open green spaces. Achildren’s delight with in-ground pool and trampoline, cubby house, sandpit and alake-like dam to explore.

The centrepiece is the renovated mudbrick residence. North facing with vine draped patio and full wall of large glass windows and french doors, this substantial home is not pretentious. It blends the earthy, cosy feel of its mudbrick construction with its modern conveniences beautifully. It is ahome to be lived in and enjoyed. There are three generous bedrooms including amaster suite with huge ensuite bathroom. The kitchen is well appointed, open plan and overlooking the family room. Alight-filled dining room overlooks the patio as does the separate lounge, cosy sitting area and study. The home has plenty of storage, wood heating and reverse cycle units for cooling.

In addition to the main house there is amudbrick studio that would make an ideal artist’s space or guest quarters. Attached to the main house for vehicles is adouble carport. Wellestablished garden beds and walled garden rooms offer quiet places to sit or entertain and work to connect the house and studio along meandering paths through seasonal plantings. From the front patio, you have aclear view to the dam and the treescape of the state forest. It is abeautifully shaded place to entertain outdoors. Fruit trees and vegetable gardens are maintained by areticulated watering system and there are shiraz vines, planted by the previous owner, that may be reinvigorated with time and attention. The property has good fencing, ample rainwater storage, and athree-meg dam. Hyggelig is apeaceful, private escape, five kilometres from the Heathcote township, close to Lake Eppalock for water activities and 90 minutes to Melbourne.

AscentTreeSolutions

Offers qualified and professional solutions to all of yourtree needs. Whether you’re looking for atree removal, tree pruning or stump grinding, or have concerns about storm and wind damage to your trees, we have you covered.

Chris Mackenzie, owner andhead climber, is aCert3 Qualified Arborist with over 15 years experience completing high level complex climbing through his years as one of Melbourne’s top contract climbers.

Chris brings technical skills and expert knowledgetoeachtreejob completed.

Located in the Macedon Ranges, and with areputation for efficient service and highly skilled work, Ascent Tree Solutions offers our happy customers asafeand competent service.

MIDLAND

Healthier choices at ChewtonPool

ChewtonSwimming Pool, supportedby Dhelkaya Health, has received recognition for their healthier drink options from Vic Kids Eat Well.

Chewton Swimming Pool management committee president, Sera-Jane Peters, said their pool had refreshed the fridge so that healthier drink options were available for community members visiting.

The changes have been recognised by the Cancer Council’s ‘Vic Kids Eat Well’ movement and have earned Chewton Swimming Pool aBronze reward.

“We’ve replaced most of our soft drinks with small juices, flavoured milks, and coconut water. The kids are loving them, especially the honeycomb milk. The frozen healthy drinks are particularly a winner on hot days,” Sera-Jane said.

“We are also able to offer free fresh fruit on Fridays, with thanks to Harvest at the Mill.

“The health promotion officer visited our pool and helped us to include drinks that are less sugary and position them in the fridge to encourage healthier choices,” she said.

Dhelkaya Health proudly supports Vic Kids Eat Well, which allows schools, outside school hours care, sports clubs, recreation facilities and council-operated facilities to make simple changes that give kids access to healthier food and drinks.

Relevant groups can sign up for free or learn more about the movement at www.vickidseatwell.health.vic.gov.au Alternatively, call 54791000 to find outmore fromthe Dhelkaya healthpromotion officer.

Artists sought for Parched project

La Trobe Art Institute and Bendigo Art Gallery are seeking expressions of interest from artists to undertake aresidency as part of alargerresearch project titled Parched Parched has an interdisciplinary team from the fields of visual arts, journalism, literary studies, history and climate science, interested in how drought is culturally understood and experienced in regional Victoria.

La Trobe’s Artist in Residence apartment and studio supports professional visual art practitioners to respond to the region by providing adedicated space to stay and work.

Fully outfitted with amenities and including awork/live space that’s adaptable to various practices, residents at LAI benefit from access to new audiences, current exhibitions, and being centrally located in the heart of Bendigo’s cultural precinct.

Applications from First Nations artists and artists from regional Victoria or droughtaffected areas are especially encouraged.

Applicants can be artists from any discipline, though the residency would be particularly suitable to research-based artists and those familiar with site-responsive social practice. Expressions of Interest close on January 31.

For more information visit parchedresearchproject.com.au

Deputy operations managerDarrius Waltersand pool visitorsenjoy the healthydrinks and free fruit at Chewton Pool.

BIRRELL

GarryFrancis

4.11.1957 –24.12.2022

Belovedsecond son of Nancye&Frank Birrell of ‘Springvale’, Carlsruhe (both dec).

Adored brother of Russell &Anne-Maree Lovedbrother in law of Lyn&Ron. Respected and much loveduncle of Jamie, Matthew, Sam, Catherine, Alicia &Melanie

Foreverloved and Remembered

KN269187/L

BIRRELL GarryFrancis

Our loving Uncle Garry, who is in all our precious memories; birthdays,Christmas’, everyperformance and milestone and countless adventures in the bush. We will miss you dearly

BIRRELL

GarryFrancis

The Captain, Officers and Members of Carlsruhe Fire Brigade mourn the passing of GarryBirrell LifeMember, Brigade Member for45years and friend.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at thistime

KN269178/L

BIRRELL

The Funeral Service to celebrate the lifeof GarryFrancis Birrell, will be held at the Thomas J. Scott Memorial Chapel, 5PiperSt, Kyneton on Wednesday (January11th 2023), commencing at 1.30 pm

All classic motorcycles and classic cars are welcome

Aburial at the CarlsruheCemetery will follow

KN269174/L

Deaths

BIRRELL GarryFrancis

Atruly wise,gentle and compassionate man. Lovedand respected brotherofRussell, brother-in-lawofLyn, uncle of Jamie,Matt and Sam

HAYNES

Jean Margaret

Passed away January11, 1980.

Forawhile on earth She wasthe very best Wonderful memories are ours to keep –Your loving daughter Anita, son-in-lawNoel (dec.), grandchildren Sharon and Graeme, Shane and Sandy, Carland Louise,and great grandchildren LaylaJean, Sebastian Flinn and Oliver Tom.

KN269145/L

Deaths/Funerals

AllanJack Faulkner

Castlemaine IGA Plus Liquor Vacancies available for Liquor Shop Manager (experience preferred) 38 hrs per week.

Bookkeeper Part time,must have experience in MYOB Resume to be emailed to hkshunkang@ hotmail.com

PART TIME JOB KYNETON

Suit semi retired person. Requires mechanical skills and ability to talk with people Phone and Car available to the right person. Some on call and weekend work required.

KN268823/L

BIRRELL Garry

Deepest sympathyto all the family on the sad passing of Garry. Averygentle and kind man. Lots of love to youall. The Sheridans

KN269194/J

HAW -Ken

Agreat friend, playerand supporter of Kyneton Golf Bowling Club Kenwas awonderful character who will be greatly missedbyall at our club

Deepest sympathies to Ken’sfamily and his manyfriends

All the roads in Tir Tairngire are fast and fun, it’stime to enjoythe ride,travelwell brother

Dearly lovedand respected brotherofAnne-Maree and lovedbrother-in-lawofRon Your strength, courage and compassion knewnobounds Iamsolucky and proud to have been your little sister, so manytreasured memories youwill be foreverloved and remembered. Rest in peace until we meet again

Garry, thankyou forall the laughs and memories we madeasateam We miss youalready even little Ellie Youhaveleft abig hole in all our hearts RIP Iamsograteful to Anne-Maree andRussy, words are not enough. Brooke, Olivia, Marcelle& Ellie

Allanpassed away peacefully at Penhall Hostel on 31st December 2022 in his 89th year Loving husband of Margaret (dec). Aservice will be held forAllan by thegraveside at the Newstead Cemeteryon Thursday12thJanuaryat11.00am.

KN268176/L

PayNegotiable Enquires/applications by email only please Please send CV’s or questions to: Part.time.job kyneton@gmail.com

All our love Catherine,Alicia and Melanie KN269177/L

Carnival draws huge turnout

Castlemaine Cycling Club had an amazing turnout for its twoday Christmas Carnival on December 29 and 30, with more than 150 riders competing each day.

As part of this year's event, the club was able to run two events in memoriam to past members –thisincluded the Johnathan Kuhle Memorial Race for both Under 15 Girls and Under 15 Boys, and the Ken Maddern Senior Memorial race for Women, Men and Open riders.

It was agreat way to recognise and honour both past members.

Riders came from near and far ,including some interstate riders, with all commending the club for an outstanding event.

Castlemaine Cycling Club would like to congratulate all placegetters and thank all the volunteers who put their hand up to help over the two days –thisincluded Castlemaine members as well as Bendigo Cycling Club members.

Without the continued dedication of club volunteers these types of events could not be held.

Castlemaine Cycling Club would also like to thank all local residents for their patience and understanding with the extra traffic and noise during this two-day event.

Town &District

GOLF results

CASTLEMAINE

Asuperlative

Fellow A-grader Leigh Campbell had 79-8-71.

The B-grade winner was Kevin Gardner with 85-14-71, and C-grade went to Jayson Glenister 90-18-72.

KYNETON

Adam Smith spread-eagled the field in Kyneton’s monthly medal event on Saturday.

Smith shot asuperb79-14-65for finish three shots clear of fellow B-grader Louis Thompson 86-18-68.

A: Pete Robins 79-8-71 from Matt Waters 81-9-72. C: Peter Kewnick 95-25-70 from David Ryan 89-19-70.

Ladies –Julie Harris 91-24-67 from Robyn MacRae 96-25-71.

NTPs went to Ryan, MacRae, Ross Foreman, Denise Murphy and Dale Bond (also super pin).

Wednesday stableford: In A-grade Harrison Huntley (9) shone with 39 points from Terry Gamble (9) on 36, and Pat Clohesy (19) topped B-grade with 38, one clear of Paul Moore (29).

Ladies: Judy Aldred (40) had 37 points with Robyn MacRae (25) next best on 32.

Ross Foreman, Merilyn Hoystead and Terry Gamble were NTPs.

MOUNT MACEDON

The annual John Lowe Memorial event took pride of place at Mount Macedon golf course on Saturday.

It was no surprise to see afullfield present to pay tribute to alife member who was club resident for three years, captain for eight, and an eight times club champion.

The 4BBB stableford was won by Jim Hynes and Na-

than Fairley with 47 points, from the father and so duo of Mike and Patrick Doyle with 44.

The eagle by A. Strawbs on the 9th was ahighlight.

The Gisborne Peak Winery’s mug ‘o the month stableford on Wednesday was dominated by B-graders.

Mug and grade winner was Peter Semmens (24) with 39 points from Mike Gorman (19) with 38.

With 35 points, Bruce Fraser edged out John Dawson on acountback in A-grade.

ROMSEY

Romsey’s four-ball multiplier stableford at Romsey on Saturday was dominated by one pairing.

Mick Nicholls Jnr (14) handicap and Travis Thurogood (34) excelled with amassive 89 points.

Runners-up Keith Hocking (31) and Mick Nicholls Snr (26) had 75 points, and Chris vanDerVliet (9) and Mitch Atlas (9) returned 71.

Atlas, Scott Wiliams and Rob Slade were NTPs.

Motion activated sprinklers seem to be scaring off most of the little corellas on the greens.

Asoutherly wind played havoc with many in Wednesday’s Ambrose.

Mitch Atlas, Steve Wilkins and Rob Slade came in with 64-6.5-57.5, ahead of Michael McCarten, Luke Lyons, John Freestone and Sherif Abdel Sayed 69-9-60.

TRENTHAM

Perfect conditions attracted 90 players to Trentham on Saturday, with A-grader Kent Newton firing 79-12-67 to earn the January medal.

Troy Donovan 83-15-68 topped B-grade, and visitor David Puddefoot 87-20-67 was best in B-grade.

Respective women’s grade winners were Lisa Caines 83-14-69 and Judy Jolly –ascintillating 105-42-63.

Many in the big field of 58 players showed fine form in Woodend’s monthly medal event on Saturday.

Murray Fraser earned the medal with 83-17-66, on a countback from Mick Keating 76-10-66.

Chris Kirby, Fergus Nevin, Myles Moxley, Brian Paton, Dan Sipthorpe and Ben Slyall has 67s.

The club’s first event of 2023 went to Sam Barker (15) with 40 stableford points, on acountback from Kevin Jones (23).

Congratulations to Eric 'The Viking' Vesbergen for starting the year with ahole-in-one on the par 317th.

back nine of 38 led to Greg Crowe winning Castlemaine’s monthly medal on Saturday with 79-9-70.

Claire Perston won Friday’s chicken run with 24 points before heading interstate for her next teaching venture.

WOODEND

Mount Macedon Golf Club’sJim Hynes (at left) and Nathan Fairleyreceive the John Lowe Memorial trophyfromSussan Lowe

The Women’sUnder 13 ridershit thetrackduring the race action.

Photo: Max Lesser

The executive committee would also like to thank KenMaddern (pictured second from right) forall hiswork, preparation and dedication to running the successful two-dayevent. CCC would not be with same with out his consistent dedication to the club. Photo: Castlemaine Cycling Club

Best of theGDCAonshow

Twilight fundraiser forflood-damaged MalmsburyCricketClub

Head down to Gisborne's Gardiner Reserve on Wednesday January 25 for aavery special 'Best of the GDCA' flood relief fundraiser.

The event is aimed at raising much-needed funds for the repair of facilities at the Malmsbury Cricket Ground, which was badly damaged during last October's heavy rains and flooding.

The twilight match will feature all 10 GDCA McIntyre Cup cricket sides battle it out in ahighest score wins competition. Top score takes home the title.

Join in anight of cricket, food and fun for all the family, with abarbecue from 6.30pm and the first ball at 7pm.

Auctions, raffles and prizes are also on offer on the night.

Malmsbury Cricket Club is grateful for the support of GDCA major sponsor Kookaburra Australia, which is providing the balls and equipment for the event, and to Macedon Ranges Glass for agenerous contribution of $3000.

Entry is by gold coin donation with all proceeds going to the Malmsbury Cricket Club Flood Damage Appeal.

If your or your organisation would like to get involved with support or sponsorship, contact Simon on 0409164 852, Emma on 0477 993 441 or Matt on 0408 552 805.

Romseydownasruns flow

Bill West

Gisborne District Cricket Association’s 10th round of McIntyre Cup matches on Saturday produced one upset, with Diggers Rest/Bulla toppling third-placed Romsey in acontest where 449 runs were scored, with three half centuries.

The resumption in perfect conditions after the Christmas –New Year break also saw several master class batting performances at different venues.

With an eye on atop two spot, Romsey looked to be on top when Diggers Rest/Bulla slumped to 4/81, only to see afifth wicket stand of 129 runs put the Redbacks under pressure.

The home side chalked up ahealthy 7/235 from 45 overs, then Romsey batters were forced behind the required run rate in the run chase. Tim Dale, who had made 167 in the previous round, was caught for 14.

Redbacks’ captain Ben Way hammered five sixes and four fours in top scoring with 80 from 56 balls, but Diggers Rest/Bulla prevailed by 21 runs to add anew complexion to the finals race.

At Woodend, the home side began well with an opening stand of 61 against Bacchus Marsh, only to lose quick wickets. Arevival followed, then the last five wickets tumbled for just 12 runs.

All out for 171, Woodend-Hesket was never in contention as James Lidgett compiled an unbeaten 100 (16 fours and two sixes) from just 76 balls in rely.

Another classy bat, Gisborne skipper Jarryd Vernon, scored an unbeaten 85 from 73 balls for the Dragons in pursuit of Wallan’s 7/187 –Bryan Vance 77 not out.

Vernon shared abig partnership with opener Willhem Mackay who compiled 57 for the unbeaten ladder leaders.

There were two centuries in the lower grades.

At Sankey Reserve, Woodend went on ascoring spree in the division one match against Gisborne, with Alistair Gray leading the way with 105, and Daniel Heaney compiling an unbeaten 86 in a tally of 6/275 –the highest score in any grade on Saturday.

Kyneton opener Stephen Burgis scored an unbeaten 104 as his side cruised to victory against Romsey in division two.

In McIntyre Cup this Saturday matches are –Romsey vWallan, Gisborne vWoodend, East

Sunbury vDiggers Rest, Sunbury United vSunbury Kangaroos, and Bacchus Marsh vRupertswood.

Current ladder: Gisborne 56.19, United 50.29, Bacchus Marsh 47.18, Romsey 44,00, Diggers Rest/Bulla 36.58, Kangaroos 34.01, Rupertswood 33.35, Wallan 25.15, Woodend 24.15.

CRICKET SCORES

McIntyre Cup: Diggers Rest/Bulla 7/235 c.c. (M. Sepala 73, A. Lakshan 52, I. Masssalage 51 –J.Taylor 3/30) dRomsey 9/214 (B. Way 80, T. Stevenson 49 –R.Batepola 3-32, D. Rodger 3-37); Woodend 171 (G. Matthews 44, X. Tadd 37 –I.Spiteri 3-30, R. Brown 3-34) lost to Bacchus Marsh 3/175 (J. Lidgett 100 n.o., S. Payne 41, H. MacDonald 2-26); Wallan 7/167 c.c. (B. Vance 77 n.o.) lost to Gisborne 4/191 (J. Vernon 85 n.o., W. McKay 57); Sunbury Kangaroos 168 (M. Fox 68 –L. Wilkins 4-36) dEast Sunbury 164; Rupertswood 124 (S. Perera 4-14) lost to Sunbury United 8/125 (S. Fogarty 34, L. Sherlock 34 –N.Crotty 4-29).

Johnstone Shield: Gisborne 9/152 c.c. (J. Murphy 53 n.o. –B.Buttler 3-18) lost to Kilmore 2/156 (A. Lovick 88 n.o.); Bacchus Marsh 7/212 c.c. (D. Dickerson 56A. McIlwarra 43) dMacedon 127 (T. Coppin 32); Romsey 143 (A. Frost 39) dEynesbury 86 (L. Moor 3-18); Kyneton 170 (B. Stokes 34 n.o., L. Crean 32) dAintree 152 (N. Tunzi 4-33); Sunbury United 8/217 c.c. (J. Stancombe 3-32, Z. Paterson 3-42) dRiddell 209 (S. Dempsey 92, –S Falzon 4-61).

Jensen Shield: Hanging Rock 186 (B. Nicholls 68, M. Ambler 46, S. Zubrinski 31) dStAnthonys 70 N. Maxwell 4-16, A. Warne 3-12); Rupertswood 7/136 c.c. dLancefield 91; Malmsbury 125 (D. Nolte 61) lost to Wallan 6/126 (H. Lehner 46 n.o.); Sunbury Kangaroos 84 lost to Bacchus Marsh e2/86.

Division 1: Macedon 8/135 c.c. (I. Bobelic 71) lost toAintree 1/139 (K. Singh 76, V. Sharma 47 n.o.); Woodend 6/275 c.c. (A. Gray 105, D. Heaney 86 n.o.) dGisborne100 (D.McDonald 4-10, J. Johnstone 4-19); Kilmore 6/153 c.c. (K. Stute 45 n.o.) dBacchus Marsh 135 (M. Hooper 42 –B Partridge 4-15) Melton South 132 dEastSunbury 61.

Division 2: Sunbury forfeited toMacedon; Riddell 3/147 (M. Lloyd 71, C. Karwata 36 n.o.) dMalmsbury 6/139 (J Murphy 37, C. Nelson 36 n.o.); Romsey 7/156 c.c. (D. Devlin 70) lost to Kyneton 1/159 (S. Burgis 104 n.o., H. Walker33); Sunbury United 9/163 c.c. dRupertswood 111.

Looking on: Talented young playerXavier Tadd scored 37 forWoodend, but could onlywatchaswickets tumbled cheaplylate in the innings at Gilbert Gordon Reserve

Malmsbury Cricket Club president Jenny Ganim surveys the flood damage to the MCG last October