Wilson on top of the world
AmyHume
Hisworld ranking just entered toptwo,but forKynetonultramarathon runner Greg Wilson, the ultimateachievementwas smashing Cliff Young’srecord.
Wilson has writtenhis way into the record books forbreaking the long-held Australian M70 AgeRecordfor six days by about 9.8kms in NewZealand.
He wasthe second male, with about 663.432kms, at the New Zealand SixDay Ultramarathon at Christchurch over March31to April5.His 72 hour M70 performanceranked him second in the world.
“The targetasalwayswas Cliff Young’sremarkable 34-year-old Australian M70 record of 653.6 kilometres. My personal best was 52 kilometres less so thatwas very ‘ambitious’. Idid it because Cliffy held it,”hesaid.
Cliff ‘Cliffy’ Young became an Australian folk legend when he wonthe inaugural Sydneyto Melbourne Ultramarathon aged 61 yearsold in 1983
He wasa humblepotatofarmer from the Beech Forest/Colac region and wore his gumboots and overalls at thestarting line.
Youngwenton to setnumerous impressiveultramarathon agerecords, and chasing those down has been ahugemotivatorfor Wilson. To surpass one of Cliffy’s biggest recordsthatwas still in reach, Wilson described as “certainly apleasing result”
“Whatamemorable wayto finish my best performancein 55 yearsofrunning,”hesaid.
“I trained solidly and this time the weather convertedmyeffort into afine result
“Thesecret is patienceand perseverance. Relaxed and flowing with littledistress anda walk/ run combination. Thefinal six hoursiswhere Iput in asolid running effort.”
Forthe total144-hour event, Wilson sleptfor only about 10 hours, determined to hit his daily targets.
“Most importantwas to spend as muchtimeas possible out theremoving,”hesaid.
By theend of dayone, he had reached145kms with no sleep, daytwo added 110kms to reach 225kms, and at the end of day three he had clockeda totalof 360kms, despiteatoe injury Wilson hadatotal of 460kms at theend of dayfour,bythe end of dayfiveatotal of 560kms, and daysix wasthe ultimate celebration.
Afterbreaking Cliffy’sM70 record forsix days,onday six, Wilson realisedhecould achieve aworld ranking and pushed his body even further to see it happen.
Wilson claimedCliffy’slongheld 48-hour Australian M70 AgeRecordwith a287.404km finish at SriChinmoy, Canberra, adding 22.604kms to the record in 2023.
Burialrecovery begins Multi-yeararchaeologicalinvestigation to locate andreinterhuman remains
Jade Jungwirth
More than three decades aftera policeinvestigation confirmed the unthinkable, aquietbut determined effort is under waytorestoredignity to thosedisplaced at Castlemaine Cemetery
TheCastlemaine Cemetery Burial Recovery Project has begun its first stage, marking the start of amulti-year archaeological investigation into human remains disturbed during decades of cemetery operations.
In 1994, apoliceinvestigation found thathuman remains had been systematically displaced from their original burial sites, with material pushed into piles within the cemetery grounds. Arelated off-sitelocation is also under investigation. Despitethe findings, no chargeswerelaid and no coordinatedrecovery effort followed.
Now, thatischanging.
On hearing the details from Castlemaine Cemetery Trustee chaiperson DebraTranter,private heritageconsultant NicciFoster has volunteered to help overseethe project.
Thework is being carried out in consultation with HeritageVictoria and the DepartmentofHealth, withall excavation subject to regulatory approval. ForDebra, the project is personal. Herown ancestor,ThomasWoolnough, her fifth greatgrandfather,was buried in one of the three sections of the cemetery thatwereexcavated.
“This is notabout rushing in with machinery.It’sabout building aclear understanding of whatispresent, whereitis, andhow best to proceed in away thatisrespectful, methodical and informed,”she said.
Sinceputting out the call forinformation, anumber of people who worked at,orwereconnected with, the cemetery over theyears have come forward, and 13 piles have been found in the bush section of the 36-acreproperty
Debratold the Express thatitwas biggerthan theyfirst thought, withanalleged 3000 graves from three non-de-
nominational sections disturbed.
"And therewas oftenmorethan one body buried in thegraves back then, so we have no idea the number of bodies thatweremoved," she said.
Established in 1852, Castlemaine Cemetery is one of Victoria’s most historically significant goldfields burial grounds, reflecting thediversity of the early colonial community. Historical recordsdescribe it as oncemeticulously maintained, aplacewhereeach gravewas clearly marked and caredfor
Over time,however, thatstandarddeclined.
By 1928, the trustees were reported to be practically insolvent. From at least the1940s, sections of the cemetery began to be reused. Thepracticedrewthe attention of authorities, witha directiveissued in 1963 instructing that it cease. Afollow-up letter in 1981 reinforced the order,but recordssuggestitmay nothave been fully implemented.
Castlemaine Cemetery TrustchairpersonDebraTranter says theyhavenow discoveredatleast13piles in the bush section of the cemetery.(Topright): These bones were found on the surfaceofthe discarded piles removedfromthree differentsections of the historic cemetery (Bottom right): This headstone wasrecently uncoveredonthe outskirts of the cemetery
By the timeofthe 1994 investigation, hundreds of burial sites across multiple sections had been disturbed.
ForDebra, the project is the result of yearsofpersistence
“This has been known fora long time. Therehas always been asense thatsomething needed to be done. We now have the rightpeople and the rightframework to begin that process properly," she said.
Stageone of the project, which began in March, focuses on historical research, oral history collection, and apedestrian survey of the site. This includes mapping the extent of spoil deposits, documenting surfacematerial and analysing burial records.
Laterstageswill involvethe developmentofa formal archaeological research design, followedbylimited test excavations to better understand the extent and composition of
Lifestylepropertyrefused
TheVictorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal has upheld Macedon Ranges Shire Council'sdecision to refuse aresidential lifestyle in theFarming Zone at Lancefield.
VCAT ruled that the application for Lancefield-Tooborac Road did notclearly demonstratehow ahouse on the property would enhanceagricultural activities.
The2.18-hectarelot has notpreviously had adwellingand has historically formed apart of alargerlandholding of about 18 hectares in size, which compriseda number of lots.The site is currently used forwhat wasdescribed as "a variety of hobbyfarm pursuits" including grazing sheep and cattle. In their appeal, the applicantsaid there wasanongoing demand forresidential lifestyle opportunities and their proposal was "anopportunity to contributetoresidential land stock available in the area".
MRSC said theproposalwas contrary to objectives seeking to protect the long-term productivecapacity of agricultural land by encouraging land consolidation and avoiding further fragmentation of rural holdings.
It washeardthatthe applicanthad not prepared aFarm ManagementPlan. Instead, during the course of the application they had commissioned aLand ManagementPlan.
TheVCATmember said theyagreed that the proposal wasaimed to create aresidential lifestyle propertyrather than enhance agriculturalactivities.
"I agree with theapplicant'sown description of this proposal as likely resulting in a residential lifestyle property,"theysaid.
"The creation of aresidential lifestyle property on the review siteisprecisely the type of outcome soughttobeavoided by the Macedon Ranges Planning Scheme."
the deposits. Only then will decisions be madeabout broader recovery efforts.
Community input will be akey part of the process.
Apublic drop-in session will be held at the OldCastlemaine Gaol on SaturdayMay 2, offering residents the opportunity to ask questions, shareinformation, or simply learn moreabout the work under way.
“Thereare people in this community who carry knowledge, memories and connections to this place and that insightisinvaluable and we want to hear from them,"Debra said. While the work ahead is expected to takeyears, the intention is clear: to locate,documentand respectfully reinter thosewho were displaced.
Youcan findout moreand shareinformation via the website, anonymously if you'dprefer, at:www.knowyourplace. au/CCBRP
At Castlemaine FinancialServices,weunderstand thatthe path to financial securitycan oftenfeel like amaze. While accounting looks back at the past year’s taxes,financial planning is the roadmap thatconnects whereyou are todaywith whereyou want to be in ten, twenty,orforty years
In the hustle of daily life, it’s easy to let long-termfinancial goals slip into the "too hard" basket.Financial planner Aaron Whitehead understands the juggle firsthand.Asafatherofth daughters who also runs his ownbusiness,heknows exactly howbusy lifecan get.Healsoknows thatfor most people,financialplanning isn’t about getting rich –it’s about clarity.
hree
“People want to know wheretheystand,and whether the lifethey’re working toward is actually achievable," Aaronsays. "I oftenmeet people in their 40s or 50s who feel they should have it all 'sorted' by now, but aren't quitesuretheydo."
While the early years of adulthood areoften awhirlwind of establishing ahome and acareer, people starttothink about differentquestions as they move through life. CanIafford to slow down? Howdoes tax fit into the bigger picture? What if my health changes?
Aaronbelieves these questions arebest answered with a"whole-of-life" approach. "Good planning is about morethanjust picking investments," he explains."It’s about howeverything –your super,savings,property,and family responsibilities –fittogether."
From navigating the complexities of superannuation, to structuring investments fortax efficiency, small adjustments made todaycan make abig differenceovertime.Withthe right guidance, youcan gain the clarityand confidenceneeded to navigate your financial lifewith ease
Theexperienced team at Castlemaine FinancialServices at 12 Mostyn Street,Castlemaine, offers financial services including financial planning,taxation compliance, self-managed superannuation funds,actuaryservices and business services
Theteam has extensiveexperienceinall areasand will work with clients to meet their needs To make an appointment, please call 5470 6100 or email office@castlemainefinancial.com.au
5470 6100
office@castlemainefinancial.com.au 12 Mostyn Street Castlemaine www.castlemainefinancial.com.au
Securing Your Future
Charitytin, tip jar, stolen
Policeare investigating the circumstances surrounding atheft of aGood FridayAppeal donation tin and stafftip jar from alicensed venue on Main Road Lancefield, on April 3. Investigators have released an imageofa man who maybeable to assist with enquiries. Anyone with information is urgedtocontact the Macedon Ranges Crime Investigation Unit on 5421 2900, or Crime Stopperson 1800 333 000.
Council news
Speed reductionrecommended
AmyHume
Macedon Ranges Shirecouncillorswill next week consider arecommendation to lower speeds at asection of Three Chain Road in Newhamfrom 100km/h to 80km/h.
Thecouncil commissioned an independentroad safety audit forthe sitewhereitintersects with Egans Lane and Dons Road, following afatal crash thereinFebruary
DomTestoni, council'sdirectorofassetsand operations, said an update regarding the intersection wasexpectedat theupcomingApril meeting of council.
"I can confirm thatitincludes arecommendation from council to the DepartmentofTransport and Planning to lowerthe speed limit along the section of ThreeChain Road immediately surrounding the intersection to 80km/h withthe exact distance to be confirmedbyDTP (asthe ultimate decision-makers)," he told the Express
Mr Testoni said the update would also include the latest investigations, actionsand advocacy efforts, and recommendations.
Residents have welcomed news of progression in finding solutions to improve the intersection's safety
Newham residentJoThompson said the news waswelcome but hoped residents could have input to the process.
"Wewelcomethis news, but we want to be certain that the changes thatcome are considered and in our community’sbest interests, likewhere council places the 80km signs," Jo said. "Our lived experience of accidents on this road,places us in aposition to offerreal input."
FellowNewham resident
Help develop atowncentrethat works foreveryone
Help shape the futureofour streets by participating in the Castlemaine town centreinclusivestreets audit.
We’repartnering with Victoria Walkstoseek livedexperienceinsights to better understand whatisneeded to makeour streets moreinclusive.
We’reconsulting with the wider community,particularly focusing on people living with disability,older adults and families. Thefeedback gathered will be used to inform futuredesign, maintenanceand investment decisions.
Come to adrop-in session on 22 April at 10.00am-12.00pm or 5.15pm-6.15pm at the RayBradfield Room in Castlemaine
Youcan also have your sayonline at shape.mountalexander.vic.gov.au.
Feedback closes on 30 April.
together forahealthy, connected shire mountalexander.vic.gov.au (03) 5471 1700
Anita La Forgia said residents were interested to knowwhat the audit recommended. "Thatdetail would help form along-term approachtofixing this very serious problem,"she said Newham residentKerri Ritchie stressed thatThree Chain Road remained "very dangerous" "Itisbeing used by B-
doubles, thereisnowherefor trucks to pulloff,thereare potholes and thewear and tear is horrifying,"she said.
"Council owns this road, has responsibilityfor it. They nowneed to look at this entire road."
Thematterwill be is expected to be discussed at the next meeting of council on April 22.
Vaccinate under-fives
Victorian families arebeing urgedtoensurechildren under fiveare protected against serious illness this winterbyarranging afree flu vaccine ahead of the 2026 peak season.
While vaccination is recommended for anyone aged six months and older,Victorian chiefhealth officerDrCaroline McElnay warns it is especially criticalfor children under five, who aremorelikely to experience severe flusymptoms thatmay require hospital treatment.
“For our youngest children, the flu canbe farmoreserious than afew days at home unwell –itcan be life-threatening.”
“Vaccinating kids under fiveisone of the most importantthings families can do to keep them healthyand out of hospital this winter.”
“Flu vaccines arecompletely safe,effectiveand free forchildren under fiveyears,” Dr McElnaysaid.
Theflu vaccine is free forat-risk groups including children aged six months to five
years, people over65years,pregnant women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and peoplewith medical conditions thatput them at increased risk of severe flu.
Dr McElnaysaid getting vaccinatedearly provides the strongest protection against serious illness as flu activity increases heading into winter.
“The earlier youget vaccinated, the betteryour protection will be as we move into winter. Aquick appointmentnow can makea big differencetoyour health and the health of those around you.”
It’s importanttoget vaccinatedagainst influenza everyyear as the virus changes throughoutthe year changes and newvaccines aredeveloped forthe following winter season, she added.
“Having an annual flu vaccine will notonly reduceyour chances of catching the flu but also reducethe severity of your illness if you become infected,”DrMcElnay said.
Aspeed reduction has been recommended fora section of ThreeChain Road in Newham.
Malmsbury floristwins peer award
Lily Tuck
At last month’s Melbourne International Flowerand Garden Show,Malmsbury’sOlivia Coutts received the inaugural Florist ChoiceAward forher installation PEARL.Inspired by aquote from Vincentvan Gogh, the work reflects themes of resilienceand transformation.
“The heart of [wo]man is very muchlikethe sea, it has itsstorms, ithas its tides and, in its depths, it has its pearls too.”
TheFlorist ChoiceAward was introduced in 2026. Unlike traditional categories, it is judged by fellowfloristsand recognises storytelling, creativity and personal expression. “I would rather win this awardthan the gold,” Olivia said. Shesaidbeing recognised by peerswithin the industry she respects is especially meaningful. This year’stheme, Kaleidoscope, reflects theshow’sfocus on colour,pattern and constantchange. Much likea kaleidoscope, each turn reveals an array of vibrant coloursand patterns.
Olivia’s work draws on her personal experiences, exploring life as ever-changing and unpredictable. Akin to the1800s toyofmirrorsand coloured glass beads.
fell in love with floristry
“I found that it wasa greatway of relaxing and healing,” she said.
tifulparts of life, much likea wave
In herearly twenties, afterfinding alumpinher arm, Olivia wasdiagnosed with ararelymphatic cancer.Fiveyears later, while pregnantwithher first daughter, alarge livertumour wasdiscoveredduring routine blood work. Duetoher pregnancy,surgery wasdelayed,and ayear afterher daughterwas born, she had 80 per cent of her liver,along withher gallbladder and bile duct, removed. Twosmall tumours were laterfound to be pre-cancerous. From this experience Olivia
Theaward-winning installation PEARL mimicsthe shape of acrashing wave.Created using NewZealand flax grown in Olivia’s garden, she spenthundreds of hoursshredding fibres to form the wave.Dried lunaria podswerepeeled back to reveal delicate translucentlayersresembling seafoam atop the flax.
Olivia said the materials reflect both the harsh and beau-
“Theybalanceeach other out, the harshness and the moredelicate,fragile flowers,” she said.
Olivia also used whitedahlias from Bunch Farms in Spring Hill and Wood EndFlowerFarm. Shesaidshe wanted to support local growers in the Macedon Ranges. Olivia is the founder of PemberleyofMalmsbury,a third-generation farm in the Macedon Ranges whereshe runs mindful floral workshops, continuing the balanceofbeauty and resilience reflected inher work.
Malmsbury florist Olivia Coutts. Photo:Tenylle Marie Photography. (Right): ThePEARL floral installation. Photos: Liminal Wonderland
Thespirit of Hungary
Step into avibrantcelebration of cultureatBuda’s belovedHungarian Festival on April 18 —the standout eventofthe season.
Presentedinpartnership withthe acclaimed FONO Hungarian dancegroup, this lively festival brings the spirit of Hungary to lifewith captivating folk danceperformances, energetic livemusic from the Vardos Trio, and aunique DanceHouse experienceled by professional choreographersvisiting from Budapest
Indulgeyour senses with authentic Hungarian cuisine, from hearty gulyás simmered over an open firetofreshly made, golden lángos. Wander through market stalls,discover traditional folk art, and enjoya rangeoffreeactivities designed especially forchildren.
Theday also features aspecial silversmithshowcase honouring Ernest Leviny,along with guided toursofBuda’sbeautiful historic home and gardens.
It's on Saturday, April18, from 11am to 4pm at Buda Historic Home andGarden, 42 Hunter Street,Castlemaine.
TheVardosTrio will perform during the Hungarian Folk Festival at Buda.Photo:Annie Brown
Abold newchapterfor performing arts in regional Victoria begins this June, as Castlemaine’s newest theatrecompany, TheRavens TheatreCompany,launches its inaugural production: TheSeagull by Anton Chekhov, in anew adaptation by Anya Reiss.
Originally staged by the National Theatre in London, Reiss’acclaimed adaptation brings newimmediacy and acontemporary resonancetoChekhov’stimeless masterpiece— aplayoflove,art, ambition and the quietdevastations of human connection.
Founded in Castlemaine in 2026, The Ravens TheatreCompanyisa newly formed professional ensemble committed to bringing high-quality theatretoregional audiences. Thecompanybrings together a dynamic team of local and nationally experienced artists, including TimHeath (Theatre Royal, TheBasics), actor ShelleyKrape (TheNugget), director RobJorritsma, and Hannah Jeffcoat (Wonderpants), alongside apassionate group of local performers.
Their debut production features astellar local cast: KevinDee, Michael Treloar, TammyMcCarthy, Charles Campbell Lloyd, Neetha Nambiar and Lloyd Dodsworth.
TheSeagull will be performed at The Phee Broadway Theatre, with opening night on June 12.
TimHeath, co-founder of TheRavens TheatreCompany, said theywereincredibly proud of whattheyhad been able to build in such ashort time.
“And bringing together aremarkable group of artists to create something genuinely special,"hesaid.
"What’smostexciting is being able to bring awork like TheSeagull to regional audiences who so rarely getaccess to professional theatre— and this year,withno theatreinthe Castlemaine StateFestival,
TheRaven TheatreCompany presents TheSeagull.
thatgap feels even morepronounced. We’reheretohelp changethat.”
Ensemble brings high-quality theatre y
Acornerstone of modern theatre, The Seagull explores the tensions between generations, the longing forartistic success, and the fragility of unrequited love —all
rendered with Chekhov’ssignature blend of humourand heartbreak.
This debut marks an exciting momentfor Castlemaine, atownrenowned forits creativespirityet currently without aresident professional theatrecompany. TheRavens
aim to change that —building asustainable, locally rooted organisation that brings compelling, high-calibreproductions to the region. Ticketsare nowonsale.
Formoreinformation and bookings, visit: theravenstheatrecompany.org
Photo:Stewart Carter
Construction of a247-home heritage-inspired over-50scommunity in NewGisborne has begun, following approval of its first stage late last year
Construction will create about325 fulltime jobs at its peak, with work under way on the first phase of 116 two-bedroom plus multipurpose-room homes, along with $15 million of recreational facilities, including acinema, café,dining area, kitchen, pool, lounge, library and billiards room GemLifeNew Gisborne is the second community in the Macedon Ranges by ASX-listed land lease developer,GemLife, following thecompletion of GemLifeWoodend in 2025.
Kyneton-based Prendergast Earthmoving has been appointedtocomplete civil
construction forthe community.The familyowned business, which has been operating in the region forfivedecades, also worked on GemLifeWoodend.
GemLifechief operating officerAndrew Coulter said early interest in GemLifeNew Gisborne had been strong, ahead of the community’sofficial launch this month, withhomes anticipatedtostart from mid$800,000
“We’ve already received ahigh levelof enquiry,with morethan half from those already living in the Macedon Ranges in areas likeGisborne, Macedon, Kynetonand New Gisborne,”hesaid.
“Therehas also been solid interest from Melbourne’s inner,north and west, as people look to downsizetothis relaxedregional area,
CASTLEMAINE
Construction begins on $267M development
Conssttrucctitioon n b developmen
while staying close to city connections and conveniences.
“New Gisborne is ideal because of its balanceofaccessibility,with strong transport links to Melbourne and surrounds, and sense of community, providing an active, wellconnected lifestyle in alocation with genuine local character.”
The23-hectaresite, at 72 Ferrier Road, offers sweeping views of the Macedon Ranges, with 35 per cent to be dedicatedto open spaceincluding established ornamental gardens, an orchardand preserved 100-yearold trees.
Therestoration and modern expansion of the circa-1908 Westport Homestead into a recreational hub, envisioned by Melbourne architect Taylor Knights and landscape team
Taylor Cullity Lethean, will be completedas part of the first stage.
“Honouring the site’sheritagewas extremely importanttous, withthe restored settler home to be atrue focal pointofthe communityand aplacefor people to come together,” Mr Coulter said.
“The themewill carry through from the gatedstone and timber entry to the individual homes, which blend historic charm with a modern low-maintenance, open-plan design.”
As aland lease community,buyers will owntheir home and rent the land, witha weekly sitefee covering security,maintenanceand management. Unlike retirement villages, thereare no entry,exit, deferred managementorstampdutyfees, and homeownersretain all capital gains.
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An aerialmasterplan of the site.
VCAT ‘no’to $22,400 bid
Avery lengthyVictorian Civil and AdministrativeTribunal finding overanobjector notproceeding to challengean approved 18-lotsubdivision at Woodend has been handed down.
Complexities of VCAT decisions areknown to provide interesting reading at times, and this one maywell be seen by some as falling into thatcategory
In this case, the permit applicantfailed in an attempttobe awarded $24,400 in costs due to aman deciding nottoproceed with an appeal against Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil granting the permit fora Mahoneys Road propertysubdivision.
Last August the tribunal wasadvised the man wished to challengethe council decision, and all parties were required to attend, or be representedata compulsory conference.
Thereviewapplicant failed to attend the conferenceon November 17, and it could notproceed. Atownplanner representing the permit applicantand acouncil town planner attended.
VCAT then confirmed therewould be ahearing on February 15, and reserved costs at the request of the respondent.
Following on, VCAT received an email from the review seeker stating "Subdivision looks to be going ahead and Ihave work commitments" and he did notwish to proceed.
Subsequently the respondentapplied forcosts, fortime and work expertisetriggeredbythe challengethathad been dropped.
It wasitemised to add up to $22,400.
Thetribunal eventually made adecision with detailed explanation, stating "the powertoaward costs is adiscretionary one".
VCAT found thereviewapplicant's conductinfailing to comply with an order to attend acompulsory conferencedid cause unacceptable disadvantagetothe respondent.
"However, Ifind it notfair to awardthe costs sought,"it stated.
Thetribunal ruled that thetiming of the review applicant's withdrawal "did notunnecessarily disadvantagethe respondentthrough preparation of unnecessary submissions"
It wasstatedtherewas nothing before the tribunal to indicate the review applicanthad been vexatious, or had sought to disadvantageother parties.
FatalaccidentatFern Hill
ATrentham man waskilled when his car crashed into atreeatFern Hill on Sundaymorning.
Emergency services were called to thescene on Chanters Lane about 9.30am Twopassers-bywho cameuponthe scene called forhelp, but the 58-year-old driver died at the scene.
Theroad wasclosed until about 1pm.
Thecause of the accidentisbeing investigated but it is thoughtthe driver mayhaveswerved to avoid an obstacle on the road
Officersfromthe Macedon Ranges Highway Patrol areinvestigating and will preparea report for the coroner
Afour-month-old puppy wasrescued from the car with no obvious injuries.
Housedestroyedinfire
Ahouse wasdestroyed in afire at Yapeen just outside Castlemaine on Saturdayevening.
Brigades from Campbells Creek, Castlemaine, Fryerstown, Chewton, Guildfordand Newstead quickly responded to theemergency just after8pm.Golden Square wasalsoinattendancetoprovide rehab support and decontamination, which is standardprocedure aftera structure fire
Despitethe best efforts of firefighters,the house wascompletely destroyed. Circumstances surrounding thecause of the firewill be investigatedand at this stage thereisnoobvious cause, however it is notconsidered to be suspicious.
No occupantswerehome at the time and therewerenoinjuries.
Intruder steals radio
AKynetonbusiness owner wasshocked to be confronted by an intruder last week who stole aradio from his premises.
Duncan Rolley wasatwork inside his Artifact Conservation premises at 1pm last Wednesdaywhen apatronfromanearby bar enteredthes property from the rear lanewayand confronted him before stealing the radio. Theoffender went backto
the wine bar with the radio wherehewas part of afunction that wastaking place. Awoman in her late 50s also enteredMr Rolley'spropertyand accompanied the male offender.Policevisited the bar and locatedthe offender with the stolen goods. Theitemwas returned to Mr Rolleyand themale offender wasinterviewed onsite, cautioned, but notformally charged.
Thehome wascompletely destroyed in the blaze.
Photo: Christopher Simmins
Registeryourdance gang forHot Moves
Castlemaine sure does knowhow to party, and winter is no exception.
Expressions of Interest for HotMoves No Pressure 2026 open on Saturday, April 25, giving community membersa12-hourwindowtoattempttosecure their slot.
TheHot MovesDanceMoms areexcited to see newand seasoned talentregister their troupes forthe hottest dancecardintown.
"For me, it is muchmorethan the eventitself, it'sabout creating gloriouscommunity, challenging myself,and having lots of fun,"said a HotMoves 2025 dancer
"Wecan besilly in atotally safe,inclusivespace thatsupports everyone to be their sparkliest selves fora night."
Your group can be made up of friends, colleagues, neighboursorstrangers. Just makesureyou have a minimumofthree and amaximum of 12 participants.
"HotMoves blows my mind every year because somehow, every single act is incredible, and the crowd goes wild every time. This town really knows howtohaveagood time!" said a2025 dancer
Successful troupes will be announced the day afterregistrations open, giving themmorethan three months to pull together their alter egos and their routines. Troupes will perform at HotMoves No Pressure on SaturdayAugust 15 at thebeautiful Boomtown Winery
Formoreinformation and details on howtoregisteryourdance gang, head to www.hmnp.dance.
Filipino community celebrates at Kyneton
Kynetoncelebrated its strong and vibrantFilipino community and welcomed new migrants to theMacedon Ranges witha special Cultural Diversity eventatthe Kyneton Mechanic Institutelast month. It wasa chancefor people to enjoycultural performances, food and meetlocal residents, and theevent drew alarge crowd
Women’s health General Practitioners:
•DrEmma Haugh
•DrDina Afreem
•DrSadia Asad
•DrLayaSattartabar
Our experienced women’s health doctorsprovidesafe, comfortable and supportivecarewithshortwait times and afocus on your wellbeing.
Valid Medicarecardrequired forbulk billed consultations
ETcare
Afterthe passing of her childhood pet Lord Nelson,Lily wasleftwith acat-sized hole in her heart. Living in asharehouse forthe first time, Lord Nelson had been a steady comfort
Hisabsencelingered, in quietrooms and around cornerswhereshe still expected to see him. ForLily and her housemate Tara, the loss felt all-encompassing.
Afterweeks scrolling adoption listings, Lily made atriptoNorth Melbourne’s Lost Dogs Home.Cat carrier in hand, she knew she wouldn’t be leaving empty-handed. Through the plastic flaps of the adoption area, Lily sawher.Lasagna. Aname that wouldn’t last.Medically obese. Missing
teeth. Butthe only catwho came to the glasstogreet her.Lily knewinthatmoment, she had found the perfect, slightly goofycat to fill thathole.
Nowfour, Lucille has been with Lilyfor overa year.Aquirky girl, she spends her days sitting in dirt piles, watching the world through thefenceslats.She neverstrays
beyond the property, preferring to roll on warm bricks or climbthe beams of the ricketyshed. When evening fallsand the Yarra Council catcurfewbegins, ashakeoftreats is all it takes to bring her inside. There, she curls up with her newfamily, ahouse of young girls, fora nightofreality TV
Keepingyour petswarm in thecolder months
As temperatures drop, ourpets feel the cold just as muchaswedo –sometimes even more.
Whether youhaveadog,cat or another companion animal, taking afew extraprecautions during colder months can makea big differenceintheir comfort,health and overall wellbeing.
Here aresomepractical and effectivetips to keep your pets warm and safe whenthe weather turns chilly
Create aWarmSleeping Space
Make sureyourpet has acosy, insulatedplacetorest. Elevate their bed slightly offcold floors and add soft blanketsfor extra warmth. If your petsleeps outdoors, ensuretheir shelter is weatherproof, dry and protected from wind.
Bring Pets Indoors When Possible
Even pets thatare used to being outside benefit from spending moretimeindoorsduring colder months. Cold weather can be
harsh, especially overnight.Bringing them inside reduces the risk of hypothermia and keeps them comfortable.
UsePet Clothing Wisely
Short-haired, small or older pets oftenbenefit from wearing sweaters or jackets. Make sure the clothing fits properly –not too tightorrestrictive– and is made from warm, breathable material.
Maintain ProperNutrition
Pets mayneed slightly moreenergy in colder weather to maintain body heat. Ensuretheyare eating abalanced dietand have constant access to fresh, unfrozenwater Keep Them Dry
Wetfur can quickly lead to chilling. Afterwalks or outdoor play, dry your petthoroughly –especially their paws andbelly.Consider using towels near entrywaysfor quickcleanup. Limit Time Outdoors
While exercise is important, try to keep outdoor sessions shorter
during very cold days.Watch for signs of discomfort such as shivering, whining, or reluctancetowalk. Protect Their Paws
Cold surfaces, frost and even road salts can irritate or damage your pet’spaws. Wipe their paws afterwalks and consider using pet-safe booties if conditions are particularly harsh.
Be Mindful of Heating Sources
Heaters, fireplaces, and electric blanketscan keep pets warm –but theycan also pose risks. Ensure your petcannotget tooclose to open flamesorchewonelectrical cords.
Regular Grooming Matters
Awell-maintained coat provides natural insulation. Avoid shaving your pet’sfur tooshort during winter, andkeep it clean and untangled to maintain its insulating properties.
Watchfor Signs of Cold Stress Symptoms likelethargy,shivering, slowedbreathing or unusual
behaviour mayindicate your petis toocold. If younoticethese signs, warm them gradually and consult aveterinarian if needed.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your petwarm in colder months doesn’t require
drastic changes –justthoughtful adjustments to theirenvironment and routine. By staying attentive to their needs and comfort, you can ensure your furry (orfeathered) companion stays happyand healthyall season long.
Make sureyour pethas acosyplacetorest and addsoft blankets forextrawarmth.
Celebrating ourconnection to the river
Weaving theRiver is an arts project that celebrates the Newstead community’s connection to theLoddon River.
It is led by artists AuntyMarilyne Nicholls, RogerMckindleyand Forest Keegel, and funded by Regional Development Victoria under the Tiny Towns banner
Theproject will culminate in asculpturalfenceatthe frontofthe Newstead Arts Hubthatreflectsstories of connection to the river.The stories will be embedded into the fenceasanongoing tribute to people's relationship withthe river
Theproject has begun withanexciting river-based exhibition and interactive display. Theartistsinthe exhibition each provide aunique perspectiveonthe Loddon River, inviting viewers to seeand think about theriver in newways.
Artist and coordinatorof Weaving theRiver,Forest Keegel, said the project encouraged the Newstead community, and those upstream and downstream, to sharestories about their connection with the Loddon.
"The RiverStory Day on Sunday, April 26, from 10am-4pm, is anot-to-bemissed opportunitytoparticipate in the Beginning Ceremonywith DjaDja Wurrung Clans Elder AuntyMarilyne Nicholls," she said.
"Weare suggesting people wear river colours, blues, silver,khaki and whiteorthe coloursofthe rocks in the river bed.
"People can contributeand share their stories and learn about the Loddon during the weekends in April and on the final day,Sunday26."
Theexhibition and displayisavailable to view on Saturdays andSundays 10am to 4pm, throughout April at the Newstead Arts Hub, 8a TiveyStreet, Newstead.
Kynetonshines with trioofwins
Kynetonwas proudly in the spotlight recently as the KynetonAgricultural Society hosted the Group FinalAwardsfor the Victorian Agricultural Societies, welcoming competitorsfromacrossthe region fora dayofcountry showexcellence.
Theevent broughttogether about 120 attendees representing 11 agricultural societies, all vying fora placeatthe prestigious state finals. Winnersacross arange of categories had already claimed first prize in their respectiveshows,earning the opportunity to compete at aregional levelin Kyneton.
From there, only the best progress to the next stage– the state finals held at the iconic Melbourne Show –wherethe topexhibitorsinVictoria areultimately crowned.
Kynetonwas proudly representedamong the winners, achieving tophonoursinthree categories.
Kim McGeachin impressed judges with abeautifully craftedpair of hand-knitted socks, proving thatskill and dedication transcend age, and thatyounger entrants can morethan hold their ownagainst seasoned competitors.
Mabel Pearce claimed success in the Junior Boiled FruitCakecategory,a wellearned achievementafter yearsofpersistence and determination representing Kynetonatthe Group Final level. Hercommitmenthas finally paid off, taking the cake with her winning Junior Boiled FruitCake.
IanKohlman continued his remarkable run witha win forhis carrot cake. Ian’svictory is particularly noteworthy, as he has taken out the state title forthe past two yearsand is nowaiming foranimpressive hattrick at this year’sstate final.
TheKynetonAgricultural Society congratulatesall threewinnersand wishes them every success as theyprogress to the next stageofcompetition.
In addition to thecompetition, the day also featured theannouncementofthe winner of the RuralAmbassador and the Junior RuralAmbassador,aninitiativethat recognises and supports young leaders passionate about the future of agricultural shows andrural communities.
Guests were treatedtoa warm Kyneton welcome, with theAgricultural Society providing ahearty lunch thatwas enjoyedby all, adding to thefriendly and collaborative atmosphereofthe day.
KAS president, Louise Conron, described the eventasaresounding success, highlighting the high calibreofentries across all categories.
With regional judging nowcomplete, attention turns to the state finals. The Kynetoncommunity will be eagerly awaiting results laterinthe year,hoping to seeour localwinnersshine on the big stage.
Artists,Forest Keegel, AuntyMarilyne Nicholls and RogerMckindley, areworkingonacommunity arts project celebrating the community’s connection to the Loddon River.
Kim MGeachin, Mabel Pearce and IanKohlman.
Residentstry to save kangaroos
Marie said the shooting was indiscriminate
Distressed locals tried to stop ashooterentering aproperty and slaughtering dozens of belovedkangaroos at Newbury near Trentham last month.
On March10, residents listened to multiple gunshots ring out over severalhoursas the kangaroos were shot.
Themassacrecomes amid reports thatthe Victorian governmenthas quietly shelved its long-promised animal cruelty prevention laws,which would have recognised all animals as sentient. Thenew laws were pledged almost adecade ago but TheGuardian is reporting theyhavenow been “shelved indefinitely”
Some who tried to stop the shooting gottothe scene only to be confronted with the horrorofseeing the animals’headless bodies hung upside down being driven away on aute
‘Marie’jumped on her quad bikeand tried to intervene, the second time she's tried to stop the shooterinfour months.
"Itwas gut wrenching. I watched those kangaroos grow up and have young ones of their own,"she said.
"I sawthem peacefully grazing thatmorning and by the evening Isaw them decapitated.
"I don't think residents should be putinaposition wheretheyhavetobeout on aquadbikeinthe dark to preventthe murder of ayoung gentle family of kangaroos."
Be
"Manywerejust young things,"she said.
"Weare heartbroken. We lived alongside them and cared forthem."
Local rescuer Manfred Zabinskas rushed out, waited at the gate andfilmed the dead bloodied kangaroos strung upside down and driven away
TheVictorian government allows hundreds of thousands of Victoria’s kangaroos to be killed each year,either fordog food or fortheir skins under the Kangaroo Harvesting Plan or separately if landowners believe theyare apest, withan Authority to ControlWildlife, also known as a'kill permit'
According to thestate government’sreport 'Kangaroo harvest quotas forVictoria 2026':
“The totalrecommended takefor 2026 across the five harvest zoneswas setat 21,100 western grey kangaroos and 186,700 eastern grey kangaroos, atotal of 207,800 grey kangaroos.”
Thequotas arenot reviewed aftercatastrophic events like the recent bushfires, which are known to wipe outcountless animals.
Apestcontroller jumped to the defenceofthe shooterand posted on Facebook
“When kangaroo numbers explode, theydon’t just hop
around looking cute. Large mobs canstrip apaddock overnight.”
According to Zabinskas, the story of “exploding populations” is amyth, and as nativeanimals, the environmental footprintof kangaroos is barely noticeable.
In addition, he says kangaroo numbersare in rapiddecline as hundreds of thousands are wiped out each year by shooters, by bushfires, by motor vehicles, by droughtand by normalised cruelty
“Our communityisinshock.
Howcan one landowner be given the righttodothis when thereisnoconsideration given to anyofhis adjoining neighboursordozens of otherswho livenearby?" Zabinskas said.
"Ifyou want to setupastall on your property youhaveto consult everyone. Butifyou
want to kill wildlifeyou go to the frontofthe queue in this state.You just hirea guy with a gun without regardfor anyone else’s opinion.”
Maldon wildliferescuer Ian Slattery made asubmission to the animal crueltyprevention inquiry as farback as 2017 and participated in multiple working groups.
“Itwas all bullshit,”hesaid. “Itwas going to be agame changer but it's all been been quietly euthanased.
“Cruelty to animals is rampantinVictoria. Rightnow ducks arebeing shotout of the sky inahunting season theycall 'recreation'and kangaroos are slaughtered every day.
"Animal cruelty is baked in to the waythis governmentdoes business and it should hang its head in shame.”
vigilant withfuelstorage
Policeare reminding farmersand rural communities across the Macedon Ranges to remain vigilantwithfuel storage.
While policehavenot noticed arise in fuel thefts, theysuggestthe rising cost of fuel could temptopportunists, especially in local farming communities.
Victoria Police arestepping up patrols in rural areas and taking afirm stance
against anyone found on properties without authority.
Farmersare encouraged to consider taking some steps to protect their fuel including securetanks with strong locks and anti-siphon devices, install CCTV to monitor storageareas,and lock gatesand sheds with storagetanks.
They arealso suggesting people think
about adding motion-activated lights for added security, storekeysinsecurelocation, stayconnected to neighbours, and be alert and report suspicious activity to police.
If yousee anything suspicious, report it to police. In an emergency call 000. For non-urgent matterscontact theVictorian PoliceAssistanceLine 13 14 44.
An incredible milestone Kyneton Croquet Club celebrates150 years
In November 2026, the KynetonCroquetClubwill celebrate150 yearsofexistence, an incredible milestone, making it theoldest croquetclub in all of Australia.
Thefirst referencetocroquetinKynetonwas in the '1866 Steven’s Directory of Kyneton, Malmsburyand Taradale'. TheKynetonCroquetClubislisted as a'sporting club', but thereisnoreferencetoany grounds or location. It is thoughtthatthe croquetclub at thatstage wasmaybe aprivateclub, played at aprivateresidence.
Thereal beginning wasDec 20, 1876, when the KynetonBowling and CroquetClubopened at the currentKynetonBowling Club sitebeside TheMechanics Institute. Menplayedbowls and the ladies played croquet, sharing the greens. This arrangementcontinued until 1914 when the start of WWI meant the combined club went into suspension forthe duration of the war.
In 1919, the Bowling Club reformed, and twoyears laterthe CroquetClub, butby1926, the ladies needed morecourt spacefor their growing members, and fundraising began to purchase their ownsite.
Aone-acresitewas offeredtothe CroquetClubfor 1000 pounds, but the clubcould notaffordthat. It is nowthe carpark between Jennings and BayntonStreets, behind the Mollison Street shops.
Another sitecameupfor auction, at the corner of Ebden and Donnithorne Streets, the currentclub site. As women were barred from bidding in auctions, the shire secretary wasengaged to bid on behalf of the Croquet Club, but with astrict limit of 200 pounds. When bidding reached 200 pounds, MrsFerris, who had also attended the auction, convinced him to offeranextra10pounds, which she would guarantee, and thatbecamethe successful bid. Theclubmembersweren’t happyabout exceeding the limit,but furtherfundraising coveredthe extramoney.
Thenew clubhouse and lawns opened on November 2, 1929, at acost of 231 pounds, and thatisstill thecurrent clubhouse, witha fewminor modifications overthe next almost 100 years. It wasn’t until 1969 thatthe club secured its firstfridge, second hand, forthe princely sum of 20 pounds.
TheCroquetClubused to cease playoverthe winter months, but theladies kept busywith cardparties and afternoon teas, gathered around the open fireplace Membership seemed to hoveraround 30 members, but some years, it gotdowntosingle figures, resulting in some door-knocking around thenearbystreets to raise recruits.
Despitemanymen being involved in building the clubhouse and ongoing maintenance, only womenwere club members. Thereisa record of adiscussion regarding the possibilityofmale membersin1951, but it was rejected, and it wasn’t until 1965 that malemembers would be accepted into the club. The32current membersare evenly split maleand female, croquetbeing one of the fewsports wheremen and women competeon
equal terms.
In 1953, gold cardigans were introduced as the KynetonCroquetClubcolour,worn over whitefrocks or trousers. Over theyears,the club colourshaveevolved to acombination of gold and royalblue shirts overwhite trousers.
Theclub’s firstopen tournamentinvolving outside players washeld over four days in 1972, but nowadays the club runs severalsuccessful tournaments each year
TheKynetonCroquetClubisunusual among sports clubs in Kyneton, in thatthe clubowns the land, notthe shirecouncil,and so financial support from thecouncil forfacilities, etc. is severely limited. Theclubmustrely on members’ fees, fundraising, sponsorsand donations. In 1980, thereweresome negotiations withthe council to buy the club, but as therewould be no guarantee thatthe club might notbeasked to move,these did not proceed. Fortunately,the club has had many passionate supportersoverthe past 150 years. With mostmembers of retirementage,thatmeans about 10 consecutive generations of players have ensuredthe club’s continued existence. Memberstakeseriously the responsibility of being custodians forfuturemembers.
Many past members have made significantcontributions to thesuccess of the KynetonCroquetClub, not least the foundation women that re-established the club in 1920, but one name thatwas very significantwas DorothyDettman,linked to DettmanHomes, which still operates in Kyneton.
Apart from filling keyroles as president(twoyears) and secretary (fiveyears),Dorothy wasanauthorised coach, club champion, tournamentmanager,the club’s first ever referee, and compiled an extensivehistory of the club 1866-2001. Shewas appointedalifemember in 1983. In 1972, Mr Colin Dettmanmade the wrought iron sign forthe clubonEbden Street,and it still stands to this day. Currentclub president LenBaker is compiling awritten history forthe years2001-2026 following DorothyDettman's work.
TheKynetonCroquetClubisveryactivearound the region, including aVictorian representativeplayer, and plays pennantcompetitions and inter-club challenges withother clubs in the Macedon Ranges and Bendigoareas. Membersalsotravel to other tournaments all around Victoria. Thecluboffersthe facilities foroutside events like Christmas or birthdayparties, wheremembersintroduceparticipants to thesportof croquet, something thatall ages can attemptand enjoy. Onememorable birthdayparty wastitled 'Crochetfor Croquet',whereeveryonehad to wear acrochetitem, even the men!
Several'Come and Try' days arealso held, most notably during the Daffodil Festival and twilightsessions oversummer. Theclubalso provides aprogram forboth the Kynetonsecondary schools, as well as forvarious other local groups, and runs aspecial kids activity over theschool holidays
regularlyparticipatedinthe
ShirepresidentGregMcIntyre(centre)atthe 60th anniversary of the currentsitein1989.
Celebrations
Theclubwill host an official 150th celebration on November 14, inviting various dignitaries including the Governor of Victoria, the official Patron of Croquetin Victoria, the MRSCmayor,and currentand previous members and sponsorsofthe KynetonCroquetClub. Keep an eyeout forvarious other 150th themed activities throughout the year,including Come andTry sessions open to the public.
TheKynetonCroquetClub, Australia’s oldest, isa very historic and activeparticipantinthe local community,and with its centrallocation, is agreat enhancementtothe town of Kyneton, hopefullyfor another 150 years!
Kyneton Croquet Club members today
The official opening of the lawns and clubhouse in November 1929
Thefounding members of the KynetonCroquetClub from 1920 at the original Bowling Club site.
TheCrocquetClub
Daffodil Festivalparade (1983).
Elphinstone’s annual garagesale is on again!
Town garagesale
Elphinstone's annual garagesaleison again!
Sunday, April 19, from 8.30am to 2pm.
Maps available at the Elphinstone Post Office, 9Bateman Street
Garage Sale stalls will be at Sawpit Gully Reserve(next to thePost Office)and then at individual homes listed on the map.
Abarbecue and coffee vanwill be available at the reserve.
Book astall at Sawpit Gully Reserve (open to anyone), or if youare an Elphinstone residentand would likea sale at your home, call 0410 523 270 or email elphrechall@gmail.com $10 per stall.
Awintergathering of music, wordsand ideas
TheWoodend Winter Arts Festival is settolightupWoodend onceagain overthe King’s Birthdaylongweekend (June 5-8), uniting world–class musicians, performersand thoughtleadersfor four days of music, ideas and creativity
The2026 programspans classical and contemporary performance, family events,opera, theatreand powerful conversations.
More than 90 artists will appear in venues throughout the village– from thesoaring acoustics of St Ambrose Church to the intimacy of St Ambrose Hall next door –offering audiences the rare chance to experience exceptional talentupclose.
This year’sprogram opens with an electrifying jazz concert from the Chris Johnstone/ Mat Jodrell Quartet,setting the tone fora weekend rich with musical discovery
Attendees can look forwardto exceptional performances across classical, contemporary,opera, theatreand family programming, including Coady Green’sdramatic pairing of Liszt and Linda Kouvaras sonatas; one of the first Australian performances of Paul Wiancko’sacclaimed LIFT by AffinityQuartet;and thelong–awaited return of Monteverdi’smonumental 1610 Vespers by Ensemble Gombert and Accademia Arcadia conducted by John O’Donnell, who will also direct aperformanceofBach’s Musical Offering.
ARIA Award-winning pianist TamaraAnna Cislowska will pair withone of Australia’s most lauded composersElena Kats-Chernin, traversing the wondrous catalogue of Kats-Chernin’s music; while also providing amasterclass eventfor school-aged pianists. Families can immerse themselves in the magical worldofScheherazade and the 1001 Nights, performed by InventiEnsemble.
Seraphim Trio will showcase four Australian composer variations on aSchubert waltz alongside Tchaikovsky’sdeeply moving Piano Trio in Aminor;and WWAF’svery ownartistic director Jacqueline Ogeil will illuminate theneglected genius of 18thcentury composer Sebastián de Albero.
Audiences can also enjoya sweeping recital spanning fivecenturies from international accordion star James Crabb, and the stylish close-harmonyjazz of theMelbourne Octet. TheT-Shirt OperaCompany will deliver aplayful operatic highlights, OperaUnmasked,overdinner at TheVictoriaHotel, while Peter’sRose’s absurdist
troupe, TheHighly Strung Players, will perform three highly amusing short plays WWAF’sever-popular Wordsand Ideas programwill onceagain bring some of the nation’s most respectedvoicestoWoodend. Leading social psychologist Hugh Mackaywill lead adiscussion on community,belonging and kindness in an ageof fragmentation. Former chiefscientist Alan Finkel confrontsthe rise of AI-generated creativity and the importanceofprotecting human expression; respected writer Anna Goldsworthywill discussthe cultural and existential implications of AI; while author and commentatorDavid Marr will reflect on preserving enduring truths amid the noise of modern discourse.
Bestselling author of TheDressmaker fame, Rosalie Hamwill lead afun discussion on thejoy of getting older,following the recent launchofher first non-fiction book titled Look AfterYour Feet.And families will love the joyful,family-friendly session led by celebrated authorMaxine Beneba Clarke, who will sharepoetry, picturebooks and the creative powerof storytelling foryoung people.
Ticketsare on sale now.
To viewWWAF’sfull programofevents and to book tickets, visit woodendwinterartsfestival.org.au
As part of the Wordsand Ideas program, authorand commentatorDavid Marr will reflect on preserving enduring truths amid thenoise of modern discourse. Photo:Lorrie Graham
Dai Ciccio! playsatYandoit DaiCiccio! plays at Yandoit
Dai, Ciccio! is an Italian languageensemble thatcelebrates the people and places of Bella Italia and the music thattells their story.Led by operasinger Cristina Russo (Victorian Opera, Opera Australia), the group has alonglist of performancecredits including TheNational Museum of Australia, TheMelbourne Italian Festa, and Paris CatJazz Club.
Theensemble is thrilled to maketheir debut at Yandoit Cultural, avenue with acoustics befitting of suchbeautiful music, ina region witha deep connec-
Picnic in the gardens
As part of the Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival, afreecommunity picnic will be held in the KynetonBotanic Gardens on Sunday, when thegardens will be in their autumn glory
Thespecialfeature of the picnic will be the guest speaker, thedynamicDrGreg Moore, whoisaregular guest on ABC radio Melbourne. Hisinterests arehorticultural science, revegetation and ecology,and he specialises in arboriculture. Trees, trees and trees!
tion with Italian culture
Formed from ayearningfor music from the OldCountry, Dai, Ciccio! delvedeep into the catalogues of Neapolitan Aria, NewYorkItalian Swing, Operetta, and 60s Italian Poptomine the rich musical traditions thathave broughtjoy to so manyand forso long. Cristina, joined by double bassist TomFlenady and guitarist Adam Russo, will presenta programofearly 20th century aria,accompanied by classicsfrom the golden ageofItalian cinema and popular song. Of course,
the nightwouldn’t be complete withoutsome English language sing-alongs from the catalogue of Dean Martin and associate —this surely willbeanighttoremember!
When: SaturdayApril18at 5pm
Where: Yandoit Cultural —the old church in the bush, Uniting Church Road,off High Street, Yandoit
Suggested donation: $20/ 15 Bookings: events.humanitix. com/dai-ciccio-plays-at-yandoitcultural
Thedynamic Dr Greg Moorewill be guest speaker at the picnic.
In 2006, Moorevisited the Kyneton Gardens and studied itstrees, so it will be interesting to hear his observations 20 yearson.
Histalk will be aboutthe past,presentand future of the gardens, with some questions from local horticulturists.
Moorewill also be taking atour of the gardens afterlunch.
As well as having the fabulousmusic of the duo 'Hey Amigos' and theKyneton Primary School Choir,therewill be lots of interest forchildren with afacepainting fairy,the rovingwizard, Simsalabim, games and natureactivities.
Familiesare encouraged to see and explorethe upper gardens (not just head straightfor the playgrounds)
Thepicnicbeginsat11am on Sunday April 19.
Castlemaine Artists Market is bringing art and creativitytothe centre of town on SundayApril 26.
Wander among morethan 60 stalls of fabulous, handmade artwork, and find theperfect gift forsomeone special. Because, let'sfaceit, wherewould we be without art in theworld?
Go along and have achatwith the artists and learn about their crafts. Enjoydelicious food and drink as well as livemusic and children's activities on the grass.
This month, Castlemaine Artists Market welcomes folk artist Ellen Sorensen, playing beautiful harmonies to soak up the autumnsunshine. Go along and enjoya greatday out; whether youare alocal or visiting the area, therewill be something thatinspires.
Themarket willrun SundayApril 26 at Western Reserve, 10am-2pm.
Dai, Ciccio! is an Italianlanguageensemble thatcelebratesthe people and places of Bella Italia
@ Y YourOPINIONS
Humanity at its finest Warren(Ropable of Romsey)
On Easter Saturdayafternoon we were bringing my wifePetahome from Bendigo Hospital; it washer birthday. Peta hadbeen therea week with complications relating to her chemotherapyNo10; we didn’t makeit home.
At the Romsey Road and Straws Lane intersection at 1600-ish a4WD failedto stop at the intersection and our station wagonwas no more. What then ensued was nothing short of outstanding.
AladyI think wasa nurse wasonthe phone foremergency services and Iassume her partner waswith other men providing traffic controlthen and laterwith police. An off-duty SES lady wasgreat with her support. Andaladypresentedherself as a Dr TreacyofBrookeStMedical in Woodend and did notleave my wife’sside until paramedics did ahandover, police –Steve (Lancefield) and Eric (Macedon/Woodend), the ambos, thepublic, the firies –wescored the best as we were racedoff to RMH,and Ican only convey our gratitude and humbleness. Thank youone andall!
Peta and my sister-in-lawPenny are banged up and have fractures but areon this side of the dirt thanks to you.
Please Health Minister Thomas: There’s your evidence, reward,award andhonour these people. It’s about people.
Because the roadsare rubbish, your health systemissostrainedatRoyal Melbourne Hospitalemergency departmentas example, and people aretired.
Iimploreyou and yourstodosomething, stop holding hands and quacking about your newtrain setwith tunnels. Do
Local knowledge (1 point)
1. ‘Geburrh’isthe Woiwurrung word whatlocation in the Macedon Ranges?
2. Shamrock’sSummer Sessions raised howmuch forKynetonFireBrigade?
3. What is the name of Sharon Soldatos and Stacey Raselli’sShitboxRally team?
4. CommunityBank Maldon and District, TheGood Op Shop and Sac’O’Suds Launderette have partnered forwhat? (3 points)
5. Whocreated the documentary film Botanical Visions: AHorticultural History of MountMacedon in the 19thCentury? General knowledge (1 point)
6. Whowas the last known activeruler of the PtolemaicKingdom of Egypt?
7. The2026 film Project Hail Mary is based on the book of the same title by which author?
8. What hasmoreprotein: 10 almonds, one boiled eggor1/2 cupofcooked broccoli?
9. What wasthe nameofthe character Aussie actor Margot Robbie playedonTV series Neighbours? (3 points)
something forthe people, youremember them, they vote
What qualifies me to saythis, fivedecades in the DefenceForce.I’vebeen there and done that. Stop inaction and geton with it!
It is reliance on oil that’s donethis
David Cheal,Redesdale
Frank Sartore('You campaigned forthis', Opinions,March 31) opined that getting off oil as aprime energy source is a“ridiculous demand”.MrSartorehas, inadvertently,provided one of the best arguments forgetting offoil as aprimary energy source
We have an oil-based economyand it’s currently subject to greatinsecurity.The closureofone small access route(the Strait of Hormuz) has produced the currentcrisis in fuel costs and shortages.
It is relianceonoil that’sdone this and we have little to no controloverthis denial of access in the Persian Gulf
In contrast, renewable energy is generated within Australia. If we had already movedtogreater use of renewable energy, we would be moreinsulatedfromthe vagaries of Middle Eastern or American politics. We would regain controlofour ownenergy sourcesand become substantially immune from theinternational problems we arenow facing.
Thecurrent oil crisis is ademonstration of whyweshould foster renewable energy sources.
Thereare falsitieselsewhereinMrSartore’s letter (such as the claim that“the sea levels arethe sameastheywere100 years ago” –not so, ask the peopleofKiribati
what’shappened to sealevels, but do this soon as these islands aregradually going under).
Theice caps aremelting, producing major opportunities fora fabled north-west passagebetween Russia and Europe/North America, but also leading to politicalposturing as to ownership of this long-sought routeand nearbylands,such as Greenland.
Green shoots from a tragicwar
RichardCantwell, Gisborne
TheMacedon Ranges arenearenough from Melbourne fora drivetocatch fresh air and have arelaxing dayawayfromthe pollution and dayonday demands of the city.Fuelisa problem forsome however notalot is needed to head north and have achangeofscenery and have alook and experiencethe countryside and visit the AutumnFestival open garden toursand perhaps enterthe Edgy VegAwardsafter atasteofwhatison offer. Even atripto Castlemaine and beyond is possible ona tankoffuel. We arehamstrungbya warwe arenot apart of and who knows howlong it will last?
Thereare 193 member statesinthe United Nations and 15 onthe Security Council,with one member the powerto veto anydecision. Antonio Guterresthe UN Secretary General pleads to stopfighting in the Middle East and Africa howeverthe United Nations is atoothless tiger and has no power. Theannual budget approvedfor 2026 is $3.45 billion dollarsand this is for what?
If each of the193 memberstates contributed1000 troops to entereach
conflict and take controlthen therewould be no possibility forthis fighting and we could dampen the desireofautocratstodominate and disruptinternational oil requirements and create misery formillions.
People are having less road trips and less driving because of panic buying and the high cost of fuel. Public transport is free in Victoria this month. Fortunately the Macedon Ranges and centralVictoria are notsuffering like some areas asfuel has been available and the rarefied air and tasteand smell of thecountry is available to those interested
Aclarification
Bernard Slattery, Castlemaine Idon’t want to enterintothe debate about the Besen family and the Castlemaine Statefestival, but would liketooffer aclarification to GeoffWilliams’letteron the subject ('Disgraceful', Opinions,March 31).
Mr Williams says that"Israel wasestablished in 1948 in the ancestral Jewish homeland by legitimate United Nations action".
TheUNdid indeed produceapartition plan forPalestine in 1947. Afterthe warof 1948, Israel had occupied all theterritory allocatedtoitinthe partition plan, plus morethan 60 per cent of theland allocated to the Palestinians. Now, of course,itoccupies all of theland allocated"by legitimate UN action"tothe Palestinians.
WouldMrWilliams support areturnto thebordersproposed by theUNin1947?
It’s worth remembering thatPalestine is also ‘the ancestral homeland’ of thePalestinians, both Muslim and Christian. Refusal to accept this fact is part of theterrible situation we areseeing on television today.
An
Areyou interested in occasional contactswith others, but with no particular desiretojoin alocal club?
Youare invited to be part of a Social Group foroccasional catch ups.
TheWoodend Men’sShed recognises thatsome men,for whatever reason,donot wish to be a member of the Shed and participate in the day-to-dayprograms andactivities. However, they would likethose men to have an opportunity to meetsocially with others. Accordingly,the Shed is establishing aSocial Group where men will have the opportunityto:
•Catch up over acoffee.
•Participate in activities of choice, such as cardgames, chess or other boardgames.
•Listen to guest speakerson subjects relevant to memberslives and interests.
•Visit surrounding areas or venues of interest.
Currentand past membersof the Men’sShed, who areinterested in this initiative, arealso invited to participate
Theactivities of the group, and frequency of functions, will be completely dependentonthe membersthemselves.
Thefirst get-together will be on FridayApril 24 from 10am to 12pm at the Men’sShed.
Thereisnointention to charge fees or costs forthose attending.
Anymen interested in going along areinvited to call or text Bill Couche 0408 428 493 or BobSullivan 0427 272 078.
Pictured (L to R) Terry, Christophe and Barry.
MIDLAND Property &Living
MIDLAND Property &Living
Renovator’sopportunity to restoreits former glory
Property: ‘Glencoe’– Circa 1860 on 43.9ha(108 acres)
Address: 84 Duckholes Road, Romsey
Auction: SaturdayMay 2at1.30pm(ReservePrice$1.6M)
Agent: Keating’s Real Estate
Contact: John Keating 0419 880 444 RayCashmore0419 851 334
Glencoe is one of the oldest residences of the Macedon Ranges area and features aclassic solid bluestone home with unspoilt rural views from its elevatedhilltop position.
In avery privatelocation, it is only 5kms southofthe Romsey township and just 840 metres offthe Melbourne-Lancefield Road,providing easyaccess to Melbourne Airport (39kms) andMelbourne CBD(61kms).
Thecharming original bluestone residenceisinneedofa full restoration from itscurrentdilapidatedcondition. Featuring four good sizedrooms withhigh ceilings and three fireplaces, it awaits thecreativeimpactofa new owner to restoreits former glory and extend to accommodate contemporarylifestyle living.
On 43.9ha of undulating grazing land, the property has good soilsand is ideally suited to cattle, sheep or horses, with twosmall seasonal creeks (Sandy Creek and DryCreek) running through theproperty.
Thepropertyalso has frontagetoBlack RangeRoad.
Romsey
84 Duckholes Road
“Glencoe”– Circa1860 Executor's realisation sale
On twoseparatetitles of 41.9 ha (103.7 acres) and 2ha(5acres) with frontage also to BlackRange Road 43.9 ha (108 acres)
Aperfect renovator’sopportunitytorestoreits former glory
Glencoe is oneofthe oldest residences of the MacedonRanges area and features aclassic solid bluestonehome with unspoilt rural viewsfromits elevated hilltopposition. In averyprivatelocation, it is only 5kms south of theRomsey township andjust 840 metres off the Melbourne-Lancefield Road,providingeasy access to Melbourne Airport(39kms) and Melbourne CBD (61kms).
Thecharming original bluestone residence is in needofa full restoration from its current dilapidatedcondition. Featuring four goodsized mainrooms with highceilings and three fireplaces,itawaits thecreativeimpactofanew ownertorestoreits former gloryand extend to accommodate contemporarylifestyle living
Auction Saturday2 Mayat1:30PM Reserve Price$1.6m
To viewcall JohnKeating 0419 880 444 or RayCashmore0419 851334
Kyneton 2/12 Victoria Street
TwobedroomTownhouse in aGreat Position
With only twounits on the block,Number 2isa comfortable,light-filled,wellappointedtownhouse close to parklands and shops and features agenerous forecourtareaand L-shaped rear garden. In addition to the property’s single lockup garage,a designated parking spot in the forecourtofthe complexisavailable Both bedrooms aregenerously-proportioned and have ceiling fans and BIR’s.In the lounge room,aBraemar gas wall heateriscomplementedbya split system air conditioner.The kitchen features a4 burner gas hot plate and oven, good bench spaceand plenty of cupboards.The laundryalso has loads of cupboardspace. Securityscreendoors frontand rear areanadded bonusand in addition,a gas HWS.
Auction Satursay2May at 10:30am
Reserve Price$465,000
Contact RayCashmore0419 851 334 or John Keating 0419 880 444
Macedon
Lot2 Forbes Road
16 ha (40 acres) -Inviting bush landscapefull of character
This very private40acrebushallotmentisa naturelover’s delight. With approximately 7acres of cleared land,somelovely viewstoMtMacedon, along andwinding rustic driveway,a prettydam and offering apeaceful havenaway from the rush and bustle of the big city, this property ideally lends itself to a weekend getaway. Some delightful walks,somemarvellous birdlife, much native floraand fauna –whatmorecould youask for? Andit’sclose to Melbourne too!
Please notethe property is zonedRural Conservation Schedule 1and is within the RosslynneReservoir Catchmentarea. As aresult,under current legislation, Council is unlikely to issue aplanning permit to allowfor adwelling to be built on this property
Auction Saturday9May at 11am Reserve Price$247,500
Contact John Keating 0419 880 444 or RayCashmore0419 851 334
NewGisborne 2Arwon Court
Attractive, large family home in aquiet court- on 1258 m2
With 4large bedrooms and aseparatestudy,this single level bv home offers averyversatile and attractivefloor plan forthe family.With new carpets,new windowfurnishings,new floating timber floors and being newly painted, the home presents as new Outside,thereisample room forkids to playina peaceful and safeenvironment. Thefront garden, like all the garden spaces on the property,iswell-established and parents can easily see children at playfromwithin the house.Two water tanks link to asprinkler system which can be used forthe garden.
Close to schools,Baringo hotel complex, V-line station and with ease of access to the Melbourne-Bendigo freeway,this property is ararity–it’sbig,it’sprivate, it’s beautifully presentedand it offers agenerosityofdesignwhich will appeal to agrowing family
Price $1,150,000
To viewcall RayCashmore0419851 334 or John Keating 0419 880 444
MIDLAND Property &Living
In harmonywithnature
SituatedinbeautifulHarmonyWay,just 5.4 kilometres from the goldfields township of Elphinstone with its historic school, general storeand pub, is 4.02 hectares (10 acres approx.) of lush pasture, just waiting forsomeone to build their dream home in dream
Property: Residential landon4.02ha
Address: 2549 HarmonyWay,Elphinstone
Price: $295,000 –$325,000
Agent: Raineand Horne Kyneton
Contact: JudithStevens 0438 683 484
surroundings. Previously approvedPlanning Permit forthe use and developmentofa dwelling (expired). A4.8 Ml waterlicenceavailable fortransferintopurchaser'snameat nominal cost. ZonedFZ(Farming Zone).
Elevate your investment experience with Jellis Craig
At JellisCraig Central Victoria, we combine unrivalled marketleadershipwith meticulousaention to everydetail in all aspectsofproperty management. From stayingahead of legislative reforms to maximising rentalreturns,weprovideinvestorswith completeconfidenceand peaceofmind.
If youwould likeacomplimentaryand confidential rental appraisal,contactustoday.
JellisCraig Woodend 03 5427 2800
Jellis Craig Castlemaine 03 5472 1155
Jellis Craig Daylesford 03 9989 2525
MIDLAND Property &Living
Space, character andrelaxedliving
Set in apeaceful and privatelanewayjust minutes from Castlemaine, this country brick homestead offers space, character and arelaxed wayofliving, surrounded by established gardens and atranquil outlook.
Theland measuresapproximately 2,574m² (0.63 acre),fully fenced and setupasagenerous country garden withestablished fruit and shade trees.
With asunny north-facing aspectand plentyofopenspace, it'sa property thatfeels both privateand usable. Thein-ground pool sits perfectly within the garden setting, making it anatural spotfor summer days andeasyoutdoor living.
Town water, sewerand powerare all connected, keeping things simple.
Thehome itself offers aspacious, family-friendly layout with large, light-filled roomsand acomfortable, easyflow. Thereare threegenerous double bedrooms, including amain bedroom with ensuiteand walk-in robe. Theloungeand dining area is astandout, centredaround abeautiful sandstone fireplacethatgives the spacewarmth and character.The centralkitchen includes adishwasher and is well positioned to overlook the pool and garden. Alarge family bathroom and separatelaundry add to thepracticality,while wide sandstone-paved verandahs wrap the home, creating greatspaces to sit, entertain or simply takeinthe surroundings. Polished timberfloorsand classic country details complete the feel.
An oversizedfour-car carport (7.2m x10.4m)provides excellent vehicle storage, with drive-through access to therear garden. Thesetting is quietand tucked away in asecluded laneway, yetstill conveniently locatedless than 4km from thecentreofCastlemaine.
Apropertythatoffersspace, privacy and atruecountry feel, while still being just minutes from town.
Property: Brick homestead with pooland producegarden
Address: 10 Henry Street,Chewton
Price: $1,150,000
Agent: BelleProperty
Contact: RobWaller0418 571 130 Blasi Mulholland 0417 311 733
Belle Property Castlemaineand Maldon.
59 Duke Street, Castlemaine.
3 a 2 b 2 v 424r
•4-year-old modernhome with north-facinglight,rear access and HappyValleyviews
•Caesarstone kitchen with butler’spantry and seamless indoor–outdoor living.
•Low-maintenancegardens, laneway parking and 1km walk to town.
ForSale
$745,000 View
As advertised
RobWaller |0418 571 130
Blasi Mulholland |0417311 733
49 IrelandStreet, McKenzie Hill.
3 a 2 b 2 v 315r
•Front-positionedinaquietgroup of three,9-year-oldhome with spacious light-filled living
•Open-plan design, centralkitchen and private courtyardfor easy indoor–outdoor living.
•Double garage, low-maintenanceyardand convenient location
ForSale
$699,000 View Saturday18th April: 11:30am-12:00pm
RobWaller |0418 571 130
Narelle Waller |0408 571 131
9FreemanStreet, Castlemaine.
3 a 1 b 1 v 646r
•Elevated3-bedroom home on 646m² capturingsweepingviews across Castlemaine
•Comfortableliving with gas heating, spacious layout, and excellent scope to update or extend (STCA)
•Fenced yard with shed and garage/workshop, currently tenanted
ForSale
$465,000 View
As advertised
Blasi Mulholland |0417311 733
RobWaller |0418 571 130
Scan to viewour currentlistings
MIDLAND Property &Living
Heritage charm andcontemporaryrefinement
Oneofthe mostimportantproperties in the Macedon Ranges, this 130-year-old homestead, which wasone of the earliest farms of the area, todayrests gracefully within morethan six acres (2.6 ha approx) of exquisitely curated English gardens on the edgeofhistoric Woodend village. Thepropertyisa masterful union of heritagecharm andcontemporary refinement, where every detail has been thoughtfully reimagined to evoke understatedluxury and enduring elegance.
Thesuperb grounds unfold likea living tapestry Sculptedcypress hedges define the landscape, while perennial bordersdesigned by Paul Bangayand brought to life with meticulous craftsmanship by Landspaceoffer asuccession of seasonal beauty.Majestic, time-honoured trees including oaks, copper beech, cedars, silver birches, and acommanding golden elm create asense of permanenceand quietgrandeur while expansivelawns offerthe perfect backdropfor family gatherings.
Themain homestead showcases the finesthallmarks of the Victorian era, with soaring ceilings, intricate timber and plaster work, and beautifully proportioned rooms thatcapture both lightand scale. Four generously sized bedrooms and twoelegantbathrooms provide refined accommodation, with the principal suite offering awhimsical windowseatframing northern views, alongside adiscreetly positioned ensuite thatfeels both
privateand indulgent.
Aseries of inviting living and entertaining spaces lend themselves effortlessly to both intimate gatherings and grand occasions. Adistinguished library living room, agraceful sitting room,and asuperblyappointed custom kitchen featuring timeless Zimbabwean granite benchtops. Anchored by acentral fireplaceand opening through French doorstoasun-drenched rear terrace, these spaces embody warmth and sophistication. Upstairs, alight-filled office captures breathtaking 360-degree views,offering an inspiring retreatabove it all.
Complementing the main residence, TheCottageis abeautifully renovatedtwo-bedroom caretaker’shome, ideal as luxurious guest accommodation or an incomeproducing opportunity.The Barn, withits five-bay capacity,caters effortlessly to vehicles and equipment, while TheStudio is an expansive, light-filled haven withsoaring ceilings offering boundless potential for creatives, whether as an artist’s retreat, photographic studio, or workshop, complete with adouble garage. Exceptionally private, WhiteLodgeenjoys sweeping northern vistas toward the CobawRanges, enhancing its sense of serenity and escape. Properties of this calibre, whererich history and timeless character meetcontemporary luxury in sucha beautifully landscaped setting, arerarely found and alwaysdeeply coveted.
Property: ‘WhiteLodge’ c1890, on 2.60 hectares
Address: 89 WhitelodgeRoad, Woodend North EOI: Closing May 7at5pm Agent: JellisCraig
Contact: LeannePearman0400 947 799 TomMay 0413 996 185
MACEDON RANGES GLASS
Macedon Ranges Glass is the region's largest and longest established (since1970) glass and glazing company, specialising in fast glass replacements, retrofit double glazing, showerscreens,splashbacks, mirrors and pet doors. Our qualified team of glaziers work with home and business owners, builders, architects, designers, real estateagents and schools throughout Melbourne and the Macedon Ranges, to Daylesford, Castlemaine and beyond. Come visit our friendly staffatone of our conveniently located showrooms situated at 89E Piper St Kyneton or 14 Ladd Rd NewGisborne, Monday-Fridaytodiscuss all of your glass and glazing needs. Alwayslookfor the Australian Glass and WindowAssociation accreditation label when engaging the services of your local glazier.
Miele,Asko, Speed Queen, Electrolux, Bosch, Omega, Simpson, Dishlex, and Westinghouse. Simp www.kentappliancerepair.com.au kynetonappliancerepairs@gmail.com
HARPER (McNamara)
Frances June 'Noon'
Passed away on April 8, 2026.
Loved andloving mother,mother-in-law and nanny of Muzz, Bec andTayla; Tone, Meland Jas Cherished and loved daughter of Doris &Robert (both dec).
Much loved sister of Dorothy (Charlton), Bob and Pat (Uitvlugt) Rest in peace. As per
KITE -JohnCharles Walter 20.04.1951 -02.04.2026
Passed away peacefullyathome
(the way he would have wanted)aged74years
Dearly loved husband andbest friend of Lynne. Cherished sonof Lena Beryl(dec) and Walter (dec).
Loved brother ofTrevis (dec), Heather(dec), Beverley (dec), Cheryl,Terry and Harold (dec).
Beloved father of David and Nathan.
Adored poppy of Isobelle, Louiseand Harvey Uncle, brother-in-law,nephew cousin and friend to many Forever in our hearts ~Hedid it his way
Bill passed away peacefully on 10thApril 2026at
Ellery House, Castlemaine aged 96 years.
Dearly lovedhusband of Marjorie. Loving father ofAnne,Adrian, Fiona andMelissa, and father-in-law of Peter (dec), Christine, Lawrence andDamian.
Muchloved grandfather of Emma(dec), Paula, Sarah, Stephanie, Louise, Jacqueline,Andrew, Isabella,Meghan, Hayley,Gabrielle and Lily
Great-grandfather of Willow,Poppy, Ruby,Daniel, Eve,Rupert, James, William and Harvey
Remembered forhis gentle and loving nature, Bill will be deeply missed. Rest in peace.
KN289462/J
Deaths/Funerals
RIORDAN -Aileen Mary
Beloved wife of the late Clarrie, and loved mother,grandmother and great -grandmother Born 9December 1932.
Passed away peacefully on 6April 2026 at the Respect RMBAged Care Facility, Kyneton, aged 93 years.
Dearly loved mother of Kathy,Tony andGary Cherished grandmother of Bridie,Tomas, Lisa and Jess and great grandmother to Indiana, Kaidyn, Rhia,Arno andAurora.
Aileen will be forever in our hearts.
Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, 53 Ebden Street, Kyneton on WEDNESDAY15thApril 2026 at 11am.
ABurial at the Kyneton Cemetery will follow
For those unable to attend, alivestream is available onAileen’stribute page at; tjscottandson.com.au
HARCOURTBOWLING CLUB INC.
NOTICE OFANNUALGENERALMEETING 2025-2026 SEASON
The Harcourt Bowling Club Inc.AnnualGeneral Meeting (AGM) will be held on Sunday 17th May 2026 at 11.00am at the clubrooms 1Warren Street Harcourt. TheAgenda for theAGM will include the presentation of the 2025-2026Annual Board Report (including theAuditedFinancial Statements) and the election of Boardmembers for 2026-27 and 2027-28 BowlingSeasons. Board Nominations will be received until Monday 11th May2026. All members are encouraged to attend theAGM. At the end of proceedings, alight lunch will be served. ALLWELCOME
KN289410/L
KN289416/L
William Joseph Byrne
Castlemaine 54705951
William (Bill) Byrne
NOTICE TO ALL ADVERTISERS
Section 29 of the FairTrading Act 1999 requires the inclusion of afullnameand address (not PO BoxNumber) –inall advertisements for the supply of goods and services.
ELLIOTT MIDLAND NEWSPAPERS advises all displayservice advertisements must comply with the above requirement to avoid prosecution, or provide those details to us to pass to the Dept. of Justice if requested.
Excess Plant and Equipment Sale Saturday 2nd May
Sale commences 11am, Inspections from 8am LangleyPark, 496 Sidonia Road, Sidonia 3444
Lyco Dominatorwoolpress, Stock trailer, Gallagher sheep auto drafter Millers Falls Wood Splitter,Honda 250 FMotorbike, Ferris IS3200Z Mower,3 xGrainlineAugers, MajorTipping trailer Honda 20i Generator,Arrowquip Livestock handler,Evo shearing plants, Harvestairelamb cradle, Gallagher S200,1200lt Polymaster diesel tank and pump,Timber wool tables, Wool pack holders, Burder tractor counterweight, Feed carts,Assorted gates and panels,Tractor tyres, welding equipment, Electric fenceequipment, Chainsaws, Fencing equipment,Assorted steel items,Spray unit, Ramps,Compressor,Tool boxes, Lawn mowers, Pumps,Assorted powertools and battery tools.
The sale will be conducted under theALPAclearing sale terms and conditions.
•All items are to be collected on the day of the sale.
•Full payment required on theday of the sale.
•Eftpos /creditcard facilities available.
•All intendingpurchasers must register with photo ID on auction day
•NutrienAg Solutions reserve theright
at any point.
Please enquire
Contact:
Seniors
Seniors
6.8
GOALS: Romsey:NRayment4 JJedwab 4JRademaker
2. Lancefield: N/A. BEST: Romsey:N RaymentCPertzel MMilburnJRademaker JJedwab DPeavey. Lancefield: JWatkins WKing ROmearaT Indian APacersT SeferGovender
2.42.7 5.9
GOALS: Kyneton: IBarassi 4A Nolte2D Davie 2C Hargraves
2HRyan2EForeman DGrmusa. Woodend-Hesket: DToman 2JSchmidt EAzzopardi ARae BEST: Kyneton: JSafstrom H Smith HBlake IBarassi DDavie CFisher.Woodend-Hesket:C BowenD Toman MDoody LButcher ARae WWiseman
GIANTS 4.0 5.0 6.2 9.5
Lancefield: LLyons 5B
SharpM Carroll CWilsonL Skinner BEST: Lancefield: OBryantL FattoreBBryantB StewartD Reynolds LPollock.Romsey:APatersonLSkinner JCoates M Richardson CWilson MCarroll
GOALS: Kyneton: NClapham 5R Healy 2T Ciardullo 2F Lewis DHarrisD Yarwood JPoyser HFreeman. WoodendHesket: MAmbler HBuckiSGardner MForbes. BEST: Kyneton: JPoyserG YowYeh DHarrisCBowman TCiardullo NClapham. Woodend-Hesket: LSkiba MForbesA Corbell J Braszell CDumper LBourke
GOALS: Macedon: LKoliba 2F Light2 OCoppinJ Lord B Douthie JCurll BEST: Macedon: LKoliba NBloomfield J Bissell SPhelan FLightJ Lord.
GOALS: Castlemaine: MHartley 6DLandt 3ARixon 3 HSheahan 3K Huntly 2BJardine BHenderson SSieber hogg JWatson. BEST: Castlemaine: DLandt MHartley C McConachyHStaples WMarks OBritt.
GOALS: Gisborne: PMcKenna 5K Zerafa 2H Luxmoore2 ZDenahy2 ABrancatisano DJohnstone BEST: Gisborne: PMcKenna DJohnstone BBlake ZVescoviB BernackiL Hannon
GOALS: Castlemaine: AGoddard4 BMcConachyC McLennan JCochrane BRoberts BEST: Castlemaine: B McConachyJNuttall AGoddardJBell BRobinson
Under 18s
CASTLEMAINE6.4 7.711.10 14.15
KANGAROOFLAT1.0 1.33.3 3.3
GOALS: Castlemaine: MMatheson 2H Kneebone 2R Skinner 2C Waters LBruceA Welch JArcher BShafik-Eid O Cassidy LBrowne-KerrLDePodolinsky. BEST: Castlemaine: LBrowne-KerrBLalit FMcAinch OCassidy MMatheson Z Thompson.
SOUTH BENDIGO3.3 6.712.918.11
GISBORNE1.1 2.25.3
GOALS: Gisborne: HMeacham 4J Watson. BEST: Gisborne: HMeacham JWatsonRMuller AShoreW PizaroJMillman
GOALS: Romsey:JRees2A Jedwab DFaulds TSankey Lancefield: TOgden JAzzopardi. BEST: Romsey:KEvans OKruss Alexander DTucker JReesAJedwab JMayne Lancefield: N/A
GOALS: Kyneton: BRyan5FLewis 2ERaynor JLiddicoatH Freeman. Woodend-Hesket: CBird2 OLockens ATaylor C Forrester DSisk FRaco. BEST: Kyneton: JLiddicoatE Raynor HFreeman WMaguigan BRyanJNevin. Woodend-Hesket: A Pennefather ATaylor CForrester DSiskW Hollins OLockens
GIANTS2.3 3.45.4 6.6
GOALS: Gisborne: HBryant2LJones BEST: Gisborne: H Bryant DBaynonOMacnamaraDGiles JLong JMuscat
Seniors
GOALS: Newstead: SWinnard6JSmith 4LO’Brien 2W
MoranIFofana AHunterKSmith BRichardson. BEST: Newstead: JSmith SWinnardW MoranMDalrymple L O’Brien NLord.
Trentham: DSutton KShiner (UA) NCassidy FWalsh M MatthewsHKenton-Barnes
GOALS: Harcourt: JAnderson 2PKelly
Harcourt: K Simmons ETeedJBrasher CMcKay
GOALS: Harcourt: JThrelfall 4M McKnight3 BGurd2L Burns 2N Anderson. BEST: Harcourt: BQuirkJ Gartside M Noonan JThrelfall BVaz MMcKnight.
GOALS: Trentham: JDovaston2 E SpiteriJKeogh EFanning CWebber-Mirkin. BEST: Trentham: JCowan AFerrierM Elderfield DHolden JDovaston JAdamson
GOALS: Harcourt: JPratt3APhillips 3M Vidler 2CLyneS LawrenceLDunlop BEST: Harcourt: APhillips WFitzgerald CLyne LDunlopL Bish. NEWSTEAD3.2 7.6 9.9 12.14
AVOCA3.0 3.1 3.3 3.4
GOALS: Newstead: ZDavidge 3H Blake 2JElliott BBrightP Williams JO’Brien EEberyXBritt PBlake BEST: Newstead: CCordy ZDavidge WGarsed PWilliams RQuintonXBritt.
GOALS: Trentham:JReid HWhite CPowney. BEST: Trentham: HLeong DThompsonH WhiteW Hopper SBeattie OHolmes NATTEBEALIBA 3.7 7.11 11.1317.16 118
GOALS: Harcourt: TStrauch. BEST: Harcourt: ETeedT Strauch SMcLean CMcKay JDorian JMuscat
GOALS: Harcourt: CDavis 2NLeech FO’Toole MVidler. BEST: Harcourt: MChristopher HEngelCKing FO’Toole M VidlerALane
GOALS: Newstead: ZAshby4
BCarson BEST: Newstead: ODaldy DGordois ZAshby S DaldyLChapmanBCarson.
GOALS: Avoca:DCollicoat2.Newstead: SWilliams BEST: Avoca: DCollicoatDBurge LDillon LCollicoatJBritten P Robinson.
GOALS: Trentham:LKennedy 2MHourigan. BEST: Trentham: BWhitehouse JNadin RByrne TNewman SEvans XKeighran
CASTLEMAINE
Close to 80 players took to the course on Saturdaytocontest the monthly medal, which also doubled as theopening round of the men's championships.
Neil Webster produced atidy 81-11-70 to clinchboththe medal and A-grade award.
He finished twoshots clear of Teja Liebteru 80-8-72.
Frank Byrne(15) continued to shine with 8815-73 in B-grade, from Peter Verlaan87-13-74.
Graeme Beith 96-22-74 topped C-grade after acountbackfromDamien Cassidy 93-19-74.
With awinterchill in the air 11 competedin the 9@9stableford
Theboysdominated fora change, with Bob Franze(16) winning with20points, from Peter Smith (15) on 19.
Last ThursdayFrank Byrne(16) burned up the course to takeoverall and B-grade honourswith an impressiveplus 6.
Close behind wasA-grader Leigh Campbell (4) on +5 afterseveral birdies, three clear of Nigel Wilson (12).
Julie Bottomley(26) led the wayinC-grade with+1, from Malcolm McKellar (18) on -1. Campbell and Lachy Brownwerethe NTPs.
GISBORNE
Bigweekwith thenew clubhouse Barand ProShop opening tomorrow (Wednesday)with drinks and snack foodsavailable. No meals just yet, so hold your horses.
Also, on the two-year anniversary sincethe fire, we willholdthe Phoenix Day on Saturday
After thefields finishthe Phoenix, we will have an informal, lowkey,unofficial opening, to takeahugebreath, smile and say“Wow, how good is this place;IloveGisborne.”
Back to golf.Itwas all happening at theclub on Saturday with themen’s monthly medal, the women’s weekend medal and the first round of the President'sTrophy.
Glenn Ford who has had enough of high fuel prices, decided to dig foroil in the 4th bunker He didn’t find anyoil, but he found some form instead.
Winner of the monthly medal wasJohn Gamwell, who put all his moneyona nett 69. Remember Gamwellresponsibly,and likeall golfershewill lose morethan he wins.
Chris Barnard, who has only been hit by agolf ball onceinhis life, wonA-grade.
Lamborghini envy,Ben Ferrarihit topspeed winning B-grade and steady Eddie Kralj took out B-grade.
Thursday'sopen competition sawa lotofgolferswalk offdue to lightning and storms.
However, 84 finished the comp with BenFrankelwinning A-grade.
PeterBarkerupthe wrong tree wonB-grade and Ethan Foreman, who should have been working on the building sitewon C-grade.
Thewomenheld athree-person Ambrose competition on Wednesdaywith JennyMalberg, Jacqui Nelson and Louise LeLievrewinning with 62.667.
KYNETON
Cold weather,strong winds, softer fairways and tricky pin positions sawthe course bareits teethand makescoring difficult formonthly medals.
Lifemember Denise Murphy(16) got the ball rolling to claim her “50th or 60th”medal with an even-par nett 71, her trusty putter helping her to astrong back nine and aone-shot victory MurphytookA-grade by three from RobMacRae(24), who wassix over forthe frontand three under on the back. DeidreDawes (30) had nett 72 to takeB-grade by three from Julie McKellar (27). NTPswereMcKellar and Lorraine Ryan. Sacred Heart teacher Kylie Munro(10) had a rare chancetocontest amedal during holidays but adisappointing back nine left her well out of the race No matter,she came out thenextday and shot78 offthe stickfor 39 points to be eight clear of the next woman in the KynetononRiverside stableford RayWilkinson (19) scored on every hole to matchMunro’s scoreand topthe men’s field by three, with Dave McKelvie (23) runner-up NTPs went to Turner,Michelle Werner (2), Michael Archer,NZvisitor JanBedford, ColHudgson and Glen Harris.
TheMacedon Ranges Glassmen’s monthly medal doubled as qualifying forthe RSLsingles knockout matchplay.
Last year’srunner-up Jason McClure(8) qualified No.1 as the only playertobeathis handicap, finishing withhis second birdie of the dayfor nett 68. He wasthree clear in A-grade from Mat Hodgkiss (6).
B-grade went to Michael Archer (17) in a pleasing form reversal, edging John Waddell (14) on countback withnett73, while BraedenCottingham (23) shot70totakeC-grade by twofrom Paul Miller (25).
MacRae ended arun of second places witha two-shotvictory in the women’s field.
Town &District
GOLF results
NTPswereCook with anearace on the 4th, ColWickham(also super pin), DavidPilcher,Pyett and Hodgkiss.
Threeplayers spied abreak in theweather on Thursdayafternoon and playedthe back-nine shootout offwhitetees. Simon Rosenbergbirdied twoofthe last four for18points and victory by two. He wasn’t so lucky in Sunday'sscramble, losing acountbacktoCam Hendyafter both scored 32 points withabirdie each.
LANCEFIELD
They saytiming is everything –and while the astronauts mighthave landed back on Earth with smiles on their facesnothing could beatthe smiles on the volunteersand greenkeeper Paul’s faces.
This came afterpre-arranging to have the coring of the greens undertaken last Tuesday, the course wasgreetedwith adelugeofrainonthe three following days
Thereforethe coring wasevenmoreofa success in time forthe DDGAmen’s pennantfinals to be held at Lancefield on Sunday, May3
As aresult of the coring all golf wassuspended during the week with just alightAmbrose event held on Saturday. And what agreat round forthe winnerswith 13 birdies in their score.
Winning team: SteveGilbert (12), Gary Dudderidge(10), Greg Parks (10), Hugh Parks (3) 56.625, from DavidMorgan (12), Dean Budde (10), Stephen Morgan (27), Christian Lambrou (28) 58.375.
MOUNT MACEDON
JarodPlowman (7) stormed homeonthe back nine in flukey conditions to win Saturday's par eventwith +4.
Brian Freestone(16) continued his good form to topB-grade with +2, and Michael Smitheram (23) had +2 in C-grade.
Respectiverunners-up in the threegrades were Matt Willis (2) square, Oils Flannery (13) -2, and Hamish Allen (28) -2.
Plowman, Kevin Taylor,Mick Doyle and visitor Will Merrigan were the NTPs
Aperfect dayonthe Mountfor the midweek par bisque sawBrian Freestone (16) card+8to lead the field and A-grade, with B-grade winner Allen (28) on +6.
WayneBurgess (16) and Bubba Watson (22) +5 were respective grade runners-up
John Dawson and RobTaylor snaffled the NTPs.
Areminder thatthe course will be closed this Sunday, April19, forpennantcompetition.
ROMSEY
Thefinal of the Algie Mitchell Shield on Friday produced atightcontest,with Michael Squire defeating Robert McLennan 3&1.
McLennan bounced back with avengeance against asmall field on Saturday
He fired asuperb 40 points to win easily from Malcolm Mottramwith 31, and ScottWilliams 29. NTPswenttoMcLennan and Squire.
Luke Lyons shot75-4-71 to win from David Jones 87-14-73, with Darlene Baker's94-20-74 earning thirdonacountback.
Congratulations to Bakeronwinning thethird round of the silver spoon.
Lyons and WesRadulski were the NTPs,and the club waspleased to welcome newest member Stefan Moskaljuk.
TRENTHAM
Trentham teams filled thetop twoplacings in the 2026 Mt IdaChallengeCup at Heathcoteon Friday.
Andrea Krelle, ClarePeston, Janine Lord and JennyCutterwerethe outrightwinnerswith 91 points, twoclear of Sally Kirkright, PatKinnell, Carolyn Garvey andJulie Hanson.
Earlier in the week PatKinnell and Andrea Krelle turned on atremendous battle in the final of the club's singles knockout, withKinnell emerging victorious. Well played!
Thechill wasinthe aironSaturdayand 56 men turned out forthe second round of the Jim McCormack Memorial Trophyevent
Therewas avery tightfinish, with A-grade going to Chris Killian with 37 points, on acountback from Alan Hopkins (9).
Andrew Hocking (13) also had 37 to win Bgrade by one from James Carroll (18) 36. Julie Bartholomew(15) wonthe women's stableford with 36 points, on acountbackfrom Joedy Wallis(33).
WOODEND
Long-marker Hunter Barker shotaremarkable nett 60 to win the Drummond Golf Niddrie monthly medal by three shots on Saturday
Grade results: A— KennyTurleynett63, from Mitchell Ramanauskus nett 65 (including four straightbirdies on the back nine); B—Rodney Kane nett 66, on countback from Kobe Veitch; C —HunterBarkernett60, from Brian Gaul nett 67. Good luck to those competing in matchplay rounds, and pennant competition.
Importantreminder: Membership renewals aredue now—we'dhatetosee youstuck on the sidelines while everyone else is chasing glory
Covering the Macedon Ranges and MountAlexander 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
3MarketSt., PO Box153,Kyneton, 3444
Telephone: (03) 5422 1488
Facsimile: General (03) 5422 3173 CASTLEMAINE
13 HargravesSt., PO Box227, Castlemaine, 3450 Telephone: (03) 5472 1788 Facsimile: (03) 5472 4504
MondaytoFriday9.00 am-5.00 pm
HOURS
MondaytoFriday8.30 am-5.00
TUESDAY,APRIL 14
Tara Kitson-Healy turns 13
SATURDAY,APRIL 18
NAME (PRINT)
ADDRESS.............
DATE OF BIRTH
PARENT/GUARDIAN SIGNATURE
MCDFNL 2026 season swings into action
TheMaryborough Castlemaine Football NetballClub season kicked into full gear on Saturdaywith the reminder of the round one fixturebeing battled out.
Maldon recorded afirst up win in the Good Fridayseason opener against Dunolly and the sides enjoyeda week'srest. Newstead hosted Avoca at the Newstead Recreation Reserve.
Thesides battled out an even first term with the Steadersholding afive-pointlead going into the first change. But the home side soon settled and found their feet kicking four goals to theBulldogs' four points in the second term to lead by 30 points at half-time.
Avoca kicked acouple of much-needed goalsinthe third term but theSteadershad all the answersbagging another fivetoextend their lead to 52 points at three-quarter-time.
TheBulldogs threw everything theyhad at the Roos in thefinal term but the Steadersadded another fivegoals to their tally to win by acomfortable 87 points.
Best forNewstead were SamWinnardwith6 goalsand Joel Smith 4goals, William Moran, Michael Dalrymple, Lachlan O’Brien and Nicholas Lord Harcourt made the journeytoTalbottotakeonthe Hawks.
Talbotgot outtoanearly lead kicking three goalstothe Lions one in the opening term.
TheLions wonthe second term with three goalstothe Hawks twobut trailed by five points at half-time.
Harcourt found that something extrainthe thirdterm and slammed on another sevengoals to Talbot'stwo to snatcha 24-pointlead at the final change.
Thefinal quarter descended into aslogwithgoals hard
Racesoff
Track inconsistences led to theeight-event race meeting being abandoned at Kynston on Thursday.
Additional rain led to thetrack being inspected before the first race could be held. Jockeysmadeaunanimousvoteagainst riding due to thecondition of the track.
Racing Victoria abandoned the meeting at 1.37pm.
to come by as both sides struggled to getontop. Harcourt managed one goal andheld the home side to asingle point to win thematch by 35 points.
Jack Threlfall led the wayfor the Lions with4 goals. Other topcontributorswereBilly Quirk, Jordan Gartside, Mark Noonan, Jack Threlfall, Braydon Vaz, and Mitchell McKnight. In the grand final rematch, Trentham hosted Carisbrook.
TheRedbacks determined to bounceback afterlast year's heartbreaking defeat signaled their intentions witha fivegoal-to-one opening term and led by 25 points at quartertime.
TheSaints kicked twomoreinthe second term, but Carisbrook kicked three to extend their lead to 35 points at half-time.
TheRedbacks continued to work hardinthe thirdstanza kicking another three goalsand holding the Saints to just one to hold a47-pointadvantagegoing into the final term.
TheSaints lifted in the final quarter with both sides kicking twogoals apiecebut thedamagewas done and the Redbacks emergedvictorious by 42 points.
Best forthe Saints were Joel Dovaston with2 goals, Joel Cowan, Alister Ferrier,Marcus Elderfield, Dylan Holden and JyeAdamson.
In other matches, NatteBealiba lost to Navarreby11 pointsand Lexton lost to Maryborough Giants by 17 points. Campbells Creek hadthe bye.
Netball
On the netball court in AGrade matches, Newstead 24 lost to Avoca 65, Harcourt 29 lost to Talbot62, Trentham 25 lost to Carisbrook 40, Natte Bealiba57defeated Navarre51 and Lexton 50 defeated Maryborough Giants 35.
Crickethistory soughtfor
Gisborne District Cricket Association is keen to enhanceits knowledgeabout significanthappenings in itslengthyhistory
"I encourageanyonewith historical scoreboards or trophies to contact me via admin@gdca.au,"secretary Callum Jackman said following the McIntyre CupFirsts grand final between Woodend and Gisborne.
TheGDCA wasformed in 1919, but its currentradius and number of clubs is far greaterthan in the early days
At presentthe association caters for29 differentclubs, taking up alarge slab of centralVictoria.
Earliest record of Gisborne Cricket Club's existencegoes back to 1858, when it was heavily beatenbyKyneton, aclubformed in 1855. Woodend Cricket Club datesback to 1861, and Macedon to 1874.
An extract from the Gisborne Express newspaper of October 14, 1859, contained the following: 'Tolet –bytender the Gisborne Cricket Ground fora period of twelvemonths, to be grazed by HorseorSheep only.'
This weekend
In this weekend'sround twoclashes, Campbells Creek hosts Talbot, Navarrewelcomes Newstead, Harcourt takes on Dunolly,Maldon versus Lexton, Carisbrook facesNatte Bealiba, Avoca tackles Maryborough Giants and Trentham has the bye.
Nicholas Lord was among the best players for Newstead Photo: Max Lesser
TheNewstead netballers gave their all on the court.
Photo:Max Lesser
Magpies soar to victoryoverRoos
Castlemaine made thetrektoDowerPark on SaturdaytotakeonKangaroo Flat fresh from their round one win overGolden Square.
Thematch sawnew recruits Dylan Landt andZack Derksen maketheir debut forthe Magpies.
TheRoos were firsttoget agoal on the boardoff the bootofMitch Rovers
Butthe Magpies soon bounced back with twooftheir own.
Flat pegged another back but Castlemaine responded with twomorefromKalan Huntly and Harrison Sheahan to lead by 13 points at the first break.
Newcoach BaileyHenderson nabbed the first goal of the second term and this was followedupwithmajorstonew recruit Dylan Landt, former coachMichael Hartleyand Kalan Huntly.Hartleyrounded out half-time with another goal to seethe Magpies stretchtheir lead to 44 points at half-time.
Stalwart John Watson goaled early in the thirdbeforeKangaroo Flat finally found areply via Mitchell Collins.
ButCastlemaine firedback with goalsfrom Hartley, Landt and Archie Rixon.
Campbell Smith stepped up forthe Roos before Landt snatched another Despitea 65-pointdeficit, Flat did notbow their heads and found abit of momentum to kick twomoregoals through Nicholas Lang andAngus Macpherson. Theseesawcontinued over theremainder of the term but by three-quarter-timeCastlemaine maintained a 65-pointlead.
Flat's MaxJohnson snapped aquick goal early in the final term but from that pointonit wasall one-way traffic with Hartleyand Rixon trading goalsfor Castlemaine.
Harrison Sheahan put the final nail in the coffin to seethe Magpies claim aconvincing 88-pointwin. Castlemaine 23.12 (150) to Kangaroo Flat 8.14 (62). Best forthe Magpies were Dylan Landt,
Michael Hartley, Callum McConachy, Hunter Staples, Williams Marks and Oliver Britt.
Theside is currently sitting in thirdspot.
TheCastlemaine Reserves narrowly lost their clash to Flat by eightpoints. TheMagpies led at theend of the first term before the Roos hopped away.The Magpies foughttheir wayback into the matchinthe final term but couldn't quite getoverthe line.
Best were BenMcConachy, Jack Nutall,Alex Welch, Aidan Goddard, Josiah Bell andBodhi Robinson.
TheUnder 18s had abig win to thetune of 78 points. TheMagpies opened witha six-goalto-one haul in thefirst term and neverlooked back. Best were Logan Browne-Kerr,Benjamin Lalit, Fraser McAinch, Oliver Cassidy,Max Matheson and Zachary Thompson. Women's Football
TheMagpie Senior Women'sside also backed up its round one win over theBulldogs with another victory over BendigoWomen's Football Club.
Theside dominatedfromstart to finish to win by amassive212 points. Best on ground were ShelbyKnoll witha 13-goal haul, Grace Brady,Mikaela Trethowan, PayntonJolliffe, Breannan Ross and Mikayla Gellatly Netball
On the netball court, AGrade lost to Kangaroo Flat 96-17. AReservelost 30 to 82. B Grade lost 77 to 16. BReservebattled hard but lost 64 to 24. The17&Under side produced agreat team effort but lost 78 to 37. The15 &Under side showedplenty of heart but were unlucky to go down by asolitary point43to 42.
This weekend
This weekend the Magpie sides will host South BendigoatCampReserve. With the Senior teams sitting in second and thirdspotthis is suretobeathriller.The Magpie Women will tackle Sandhurst at the Queen Elizabeth Oval on SundayApril 19 at 1pm.
Rhys Jenkins in action forCastlemaine. Photo: PeterBanko
Olivia Henderson on the court.
Photo:PeterBanko
Dylan Landtand Zack Derksenmadetheir Magpies debut against Kangaroo Flat. Landt kicking four goals.
Long-timerivals Romsey and Lancefield opened their 2026 Riddell League football campaigns on Saturdaywith amatch of contrasting halves.
Thefirst half developed into avirtual stalemate,with plenty of effort but little reward
At the long break the Redbacks were leading 3.4 to 2.6, withbothsides looking to find away to takecontrol and putgoals on the board.
TheRedbacks analysed the situation and reached the conclusion theyhad to restoretheir structure,apply pressureand playaccording to theconditions.
Thelarge crowd hadhoped threatening rain would not spoil proceedings, and the overall tempo shifted in favour of the home side as the thirdterm unfolded.
While the Tigers continued to battle hard, the Redbacks lifted in confidencewithsomeimprovedteamwork paying dividends.
Captain Jack Jedwab's long angle goal afterthe third quarter siren extended the Romsey lead to 16 points, and
Women’s Football
Thewomen's senior football matches in the Riddell League forthe 2026 season begin this Saturday, April 18.
Thereare just four teams in the competition –Macedon, Riddell, Lancefield and MountAlexander Falcons. Saturday'stwo games begin at 5pm, with Lancefield at home to Macedon, and Riddell welcoming MountAlexander Falcons.
Thereare 14 home and away rounds listed before asemi-final between the teams which finish in second and third place.
Thewinner of the semi-final will play the topteam in the grand final.
Tribunal hearing
TheRiddell League Tribunal is to hear acase of striking arising from the Macedon versus Gisborne Giants senior football matchplayedonGood Friday. AGiantsplayerisscheduled to face the tribunal tonight(Tuesday)
Macedon 21-year-old LeoWebb was injured in the incident, which occurred in the thirdquarter of the matchat Macedon.
Therehas already been massivemedia coverage in Victoria and interstate.
advantage.
Redbacks findtheir feet Redbacks finnd d t thheeiir r f feeet
Largely monopolising the ball, theRedbacks kicked sufficientgoals to guaranteevictory,and it wasonlya late flurry from theTigersthatcut the final margin.
Tempersflared very late as sirentime approached, with some undisciplined contacts made.
This Saturdaythe Redbacks nowfaceareal test on the Gisborne Giants ground at NewGisborne, wherethey have notplayedbefore.
Lancefield has the task of trying to combat avisiting Macedon side at Tigerland, and some players should certainly benefit by the Romsey experience.
Thefinal scores were 10.15 (75) to 7.2 (44).
Redbacks' best players included veteranNathan Rayment, the dependable CoreyPertzel, MatthewMilburn, up-and-coming youngster Judd Rademaker,Jedwab and DarcyPeavey Raymentand Jedwab each came up with four goals.
TheTigersdid nothavetheir 'best' listed.
Earlier,the switched-on Lancefield Reserves delighted
their supporterswithanemphatic eight-goal victory
In the early matchRomseyUnder 19.5s were too strong, despitekicking only fivegoals from 25 scoring shots to win by 35 points.
BOMBERS TO APPEAR
Reigning premiersRiddell playtheir first matchfor this season on SaturdayatDiggers Rest. TheBombersappear to have the depth to be certain finalists again, while DiggersRest decimatedMelton South by 75 points on Saturday, and have recruited strongly
DarcyLockens,one of Romsey'svery talentedand younger players, hastransferred to playwith Riddell this season.
Wallan wasthe other side to makedistrictfooty followerssit up and takenotice, outclassing Melton Centrals by 71 points.
TheMagpies included sevenfirst-gamersintheir lineup, and theirperformanceatWoodend this Saturdaywill be watched with interest by severalother finals aspirants. Kyneton has the byeonSaturdayand play their second matchfor theseason at Lancefield on Anzac Day
Tigernetballersonfire
Bill West
Lancefield A-grade netballersopened the2026 season with a24-goal victory over RomseyonSaturday, andarealisation thereare tougher matches ahead.
There'salsoroom forfurther improvement, with acouple of other players expected to vie forsenior selection, senior coachCiaraStewart said afterthe match.
Aheightadvantagewhereitmatters helped the Tigers,with Shanae Brundell finishing with 32 goals —a case of aquality tall defender acouple of seasons agobeing converted into adangerous attacker
TheTigerswereonfireearly,jumpingtoa confidenceboosting 16-6lead by quarter-time.
Romseysteadied around the court but nevergot in aposition to take thelead.
Following the match,Stewart closelyanalysed the individual performances of the Tigers,with aviewto producing moreconsistency against Macedon in the second round this week.
TheRedbacks can put this matchbehind them, looking forgeneral improvement, though Gisborne Giants will be hardtocontain in Saturday'ssecond round.
In ahigh-scoring B-grade match, Romseywon 58-53 with shooterMaddison Thompson scoring 48 goalsinamatch-winning performance. Tarnee Hammond threw44for the Tigers
ALL THESCORES
Scores of Riddell League netball matches playedonSaturday were:
A-grade: Lancefield 54 dRomsey30, Wallan 59 dMelton Cen-
trals 41, DiggersRest 65 dMelton South 29.
B-grade: Romsey 58 dLancefield 53, Wallan 43 dMelton Centrals 42, DiggersRest 49 dMelton South 40.
C-grade: Romsey 36 dLancefield 29, Wallan 37 dMelton Centrals 30, DiggersRest 35 dMelton South 31.
D-grade: Lancefield 27 dRomsey9,Melton Centrals 35 dWallan 20, Melton South 32 dDiggersRest 28.
19&Under: Romsey 39 dLancefield 32, Wallan 55 dMelton Centrals 12, DiggersRest 28 dMelton South 27.
Lancefield senior coach Ciara Stewart addresses her players post-match, with Bella Colladetti (atleft)and Lilli Florancelistening intently
Bill West
coach Nathan Blairurged his chargestopress home their
Strong and versatile utility player
Nathan Rayment has been one of Romsey’s most reliable on-field leaders for years He kicked four goals against Lancefield on Saturday and was named in the side’s best players
Photo: Angela Crawford
Ballarat the only answer
Gisborne Football NetballClub president Tony Brancatisano is emphatic —the club's survival depends on being allowedtoplayin the Ballarat League, notBendigo.
At the weekend he drew attention to the forthcoming special meeting of Gisborne financial members, both players andnonplayers,toconsider affiliation with Ballarat in 2027.
Thepresidenthas no doubtswhich waythe vote will go —the same as last year when astrong majority of Gisborne membersvoted to leaveBendigoLeague and cross to thewelcoming arms of Ballarat, which has four clubs within half an hour of Gisborne.
TheBulldogs were very disappointedthe BendigoLeague and theAFL rejected such amove,soit'stimetotry again.
Thespecial meeting takes placeon Thursday, April 30.
Brancatisano said staying in Bendigohad been detrimental, with ashortageofnumbersinbothfootball and netball occurring this season. Potential players hadshied off being recruited by Gisborne.
"Manydon't particularly liketravellingto Bendigo, and it promises to be even worse next year if Moamacomes into the Bendigo League."
Thepresidentclaimed that the recent changeofpersonnel on the BendigoLeague boardofmanagementhas been favourable forGisborne, and the AFL maychangeits tune as well.
In the meantime, Brancatisano gave an assurancethe Bulldogs would try their best to win premierships with BendigoLeague this season and continue to provide sporting outlets forplayers of all ages.
Ballarat League votedalmost unanimously to accept Gisborne.
Gisborne Bulldogs just miss
In the spaceofeightdays, Gisborne senior footballerswentfroma124-point opening round victory to ahard-foughtfluctuating contest that resulted in an agonising two-pointdefeatbySouth Bendigo.
Thematch on Saturday at Harry TrottReserveinBendigowas livestreamed, and the outcome went rightdowntowhich team wasinfront almost 34 ½minutes into the last quarter when the final siren sounded.
Astrongwind favoured one end, and the Bulldogs went into the last term 16 pointsin arrearsand kicking to thescoring end.
SouthBendigoled by twogoals at the first change, and Gisborne stepped up the pressurewith fivegoals in the second term to go to thelong break with ahandy advantageof16points.
Thegame swung in favour of the home
side in the thirdquarter,with 5.8 to two goals straightleaving the scoreboardshowing 9.16 to 8.6.
Prolific goalkicker PatMcKenna had returned to theBulldogs' side and showed some of his uncannygoalkicking ability to have five majorsinthe firstthree quarters.
Early goalstothe home side were costly forGisborne, and well into time-on, broadcasterswerecalling the result as aSouth Bendigovictory
Then BulldogKobe Zerafakicked truly, and Harry Luxmoorehad one shotthatwent astray,quickly making amends with aquick snap from about40metresout to makethe differencetwo points.
Afrantic pack of players descended on the ball, but the siren blew.
Final scores: South Bendigo12.19 (91)
defeated Gisborne 13.11 (89).
It wasa case of whatcould have been forthe Bulldogs, who nowwait to welcome Strathfieldsaye to Gardiner Reservethis Saturday, April 18.
Gisborne's best players were listed as McKenna, Dylan Johnstone, ruckman Braidon Blake, captain Zach Vescovi, Brad Bernacki and LucasHannon.
Talented Bulldogballwinner Shane Clough wasnot on this list, but he received a$100 'Playerofthe Match' awardonthe vote of acommentator.
South Bendigoneeded the win, having lost to Strathfieldsaye in the previous round afterthrashing league newcomer Broadford by 208 points.
In its second outing in the BFNL, Broadford lost to Sandhurst at Queen Elizabeth
Oval by 150 points.
Gisborne is suffering in the Reserves and Under 18s from lack of top-line players this season.
TheBulldogs went down by 30 points in avery low-scoring Reserves encounter, and theUnder 18s were defeated by 84 points, managing just three goalsfor the entire match.
NETBALL VICTORY
On Saturday,Gisborne A-grade netballers bounced back from athree-goal loss to premiersKangaroo Flat by securing an important47-40 victory over South Bendigo. Dual Riddell League Ryan Medal winner forKyneton, Tilly Shepherd, made her debut as goalkeeper forthe 'Dogs.
TheA-Reservematch wasclose, South Bendigowinning 50-46.
Gisborne Football Netball Club president Tony Brancatisano is emphatic the club’s survival depends on being allowed to play in the Ballarat League
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