Midland Express Tuesday 17 January 2023

From Paris to Pastoria Pastori

The rolling countryside of Pastoria East may seem an unlikely place to find a French horologist, yet that is where Bruno Bell calls home.

The clockmaker and object restorer and his Australian wife –seniorcurator for the National Gallery of Victoria, Amanda Dunsmore –moved to their 160-acre

property north-east of Kyneton just four months ago.

But Bruno's fated journey to Australia began more than 20 years ago when he first met Amanda at an archaeological dig in Egypt.

"We met on an archaeological excavation with Monash University," Bruno explained.

"She was there as aceramologist and

me as ametal object conservator.

"We just spent two months in the desert and we had alittleromance."

Bruno spoke little English at the time but as the only option at the dig was to speak that or Arabic, the former won out.

"Most of the publications about conservation are in English, so Iread English quite easily and Ithink it helped alittle bit," he said.

After Egypt, Bruno and Amanda lost touch.

But four years ago, when travelling in France, Amanda tracked Bruno down.

"She was in Normandy, where Iwas working, and she found me and it was quite asurprise," he said.

"We met in the train station and we just discovered that the feeling was still there.

Continued page 5.

Angela Crawford

Horologist and metal object restorer,Bruno Bell, at work in his workshop.

Collectorstoconverge

The sixth annual Campbells Creek Collectables Fair returns to the Campbells Creek Community Centre this weekend, January 21-22.

The event is the second under the management of Hey Day Events Australia and organiser Kate Larsen said everyone was excited for the 2023 fair.

“We had agreat turnout for the 2022 Campbells Creek Collectables Fair and our sister event, the Daylesford Collectables Fair, in November despite the wet weather!” Kate said.

“We are delighted to be able to welcome back some more of our interstate stallholders in 2023 and they tell me they have been stockpiling wares and look forward to bringing their unique finds to the Campbells Creek event,” she said.

This weekend’s fair will feature more than 100 stalls in the hall and surrounds selling antiques, vintage, collectables and retro goods.

Kate said the fair would have something for everyone with antiques, glassware and

pottery through to vinyl records, books and collectables from the 70s, 80s and 90s.

“There will something special for collectors of all ages from vintage cameras to toys and homewares. It will be arealtrip down memory lane,” she said.

The event will run from 8am to 5pm Saturday and 8am to 2pm Sunday.

There are special $15 early bird tickets available for the first hour (7am to 8am) on Saturday for the avid collector keen to be first through the door to secure abargain

“For the first time we will also be offering a$10 weekend ticket so visitors can return on the Sunday if they wish,” Kate said.

Day passes are $8 for adults (children under 16 free). You can save time and get your ticket via trybooking.com or at the gate.

“There will be refreshments on site throughout the weekend so you can pop out and make aday of it,” Kate said.

To find out more about the event, visit heydayeventsaustralia.com or check out the Campbells Creek Collectables Facebook or Instagram pages for updates.

The Campbells Creek Collectables Fair is set to return this weekend.

Legalised ‘rally driving’

Cherokeeresidentcalls for speed reductioninwildlifehotspots

Angela Crawford

ACherokee resident is calling for a speed limit reduction on roads through vulnerable wildlife hotspots in the Macedon Ranges.

John Power said several roads with 100km/h default speed limits could be found at Cherokee, Riddells Creek and other locations east of Mount Macedon.

“There are no signed speed limits throughout extensive networks of winding, narrow, mostly gravel roads in Macedon Ranges Shire,” Mr Power said.

“This oversight legalises ‘rally driving’ default speeds of up to 100km/h through some of the state’s most vulnerable wildlife hotspots, resulting in horrendously high rates of roadkill.”

Mr Power said that although the Department of Transport was responsible for creating signed speed limits on roads, these were commonly based on recommendations from local councils.

“Macedon Ranges Shire Council, however, steadfastly refuses to recognise the absurdity of default 100km/h speeds along the non-speed-signposted networks of (mostly) gravel roads,” he said.

In August 2020, Mr Power initiated a petition for the creation of 50km/h speed limits throughout local roads east of Mount Macedon. That petition of 770 signatures was accepted by council as part of its deliberations on September 16, 2020, to review local speed limits for both wildlife and human safety.

Mr Power said no action had been forthcoming. “Locals appreciate that any speeds above 50km/h leave adriver with almost no chance of avoiding an animal

Algae warning

Goulburn-Murray Water is warning the public to avoid contact with water in Lake Eppalock after monitoring detected high levels of blue-green algae.

Blue-green algae contain toxins that are harmful to humans and animals.

People who come into contact with the algae may experience skin rashes, itchiness; sore eyes, ears and nose; asthma; numbness of lips and limbs; nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea.

Warning signs have been placed at major recreational areas.

When levels decline, GMW’s website and hotline will be updated and warning signs will be removed.

It is recommended that alternative supplies for stock drinking be used. Stock and other animals should be kept away from the water and from recently irrigated areas.

Watering of edible garden plants should also be avoided.

strike on these roads,” he said.

“Below 50km/h, the inverse applies: a driver has an excellent chance of braking or swerving to avoid an animal.

“Like most of our neighbours, Inever go faster than 50km/h. There are wombat burrows right on the roadside.

“How can ‘rally driving’ speeds of up to 100km/h through known wildlife corridors be regarded as sane, particularly if drivers are unfamiliar with an area?”

Council’s director of assets and operations, Shane Walden, said Mr Power’s petition had resulted in wildlife being included as apart of the Road Mobility and Safety Strategy.

“A draft strategy will be provided to council seeking resolution to go to

Shakespeare Workshop +Audition Call

Workshop: Speak the Speech”suitable for 15-25 yearolds. Sunday 22nd January,10-5pm.

Auditions: “Romeo and Juliet” -a contemporary take on the classictale: two star-crossed young lovers navigate the seedy underworld in ahazeoflove, hope and tragedy.Sunday 29 January

To book: Rob on 0428 379 879 We are an inclusive theatre company and welcome auditions from all with a love of theatre!

community consultation early this year,” Mr Walden said.

“In terms of speed limit reductions, council officers are guided by the DTP’s Speed Zoning Guidelines, which provides aconsistent speed approach across the state’s road network.

“Council is keen to advocate for further speed reduction and happy to participate in any workshop with DTP and Road Safety Victoria on this subject.”

Mr Walden said council monitored its Customer Request System for data on wildlife trauma and was interested in accessing any other known data sources, including from insurance companies, to better inform locations of hotspots on wildlife trauma.

What do these tworoads have in common? Both the Eastern Freeway(left) and SandyCreek Road, Riddells Creek (right), and similar unsealed roads in Macedon Ranges Shire,share the same speed limit of 100km/h.

Major crash at Kyneton

An elderly Kyneton couple had to be cut from the wreckage of their car after it was struck at speed by autility in Kyneton on Saturday afternoon.

Emergency services were called to the scene at the intersection of Edgecombe Road and Beauchamp Street just after 4pm.

The ute had been detected speeding on Edgecombe Road where the driver failed to stop on police direction before entering the roundabout in the wrong direction and colliding with the victims’ vehicle. The collision also brought down alight pole.

The driver and passenger of the car,

both aged in their 70s, suffered upper body injuries and were transported by road ambulance to the

The male driver of the ute, a39-year-old Heidelberg man, suffered upper body injuries and was airlifted to RMH in aserious but stable condition.

He had false plates on the ute, was unlicensed and will be charged with several serious driving offences including dangerous driving causing serious injury.

Major collision investigators assessed the scene, with the incident overseen by Professional Standards Command.

Royal Melbourne Hospital in astable condition.

Emergencyservices attend the scene of aserious crash in KynetononSaturday.

From ParistoPastoria

From page 1.

"It was the day that Notre-Dame was burning, and for me it was asortofrevelation, that it was just the right time for me to change my life.

"I drove to the south of France and we spent afew days together.

"Six months later Iwas moving to Australia.

"All the stars aligned, everything fell into place when we found each other, it was really amazing."

The couple first lived in Melbourne before discovering the property at Pastoria East, where they keep merino sheep.

"For afew years we were looking to move to amore countryside life, amore peaceful and quiet life, and we just found this place," Bruno said.

ACONSERVATION CAREER

Bruno grew up in the suburbs of Paris and first completed adegreeinchemistry and physics before later studying history and archaeology at the renowned Sorbonne University, where he completed his masters in conservation. He is also a graduate of the British Horological Institute.

Bruno ran his own workshop in Normandy until 2019, undertaking conservation work for archaeologists, museums, public service organisations and private clients.

He has worked on Napoleon’s armour and has identified organic materials in early graves from the medieval period. He also restored the silver Mercure statuette from

the Bois-l’Abbé excavation.

With 30 years of conservation experience, Bruno specialises in metal object conservation.

"There was digging in a15th century castle and they found alot of metal objects and every year Ihad abox of metal objects to restore," he said.

"It was really exciting for me and for them.

"The approach was to restore all of the objects because in France when you make an excavation, even on antique sites, you get alot of metal objects.

"We discovered an arrow head and writing tools, which looked like nails from the corrosion, but when Icleaned them Isaw fine decoration."

Another fascinating find was atiny copper box from aRoman excavation.

"It was in the context of ahouse, which was probably amedical house, and the box was completely sealed by the corrosion," he explained.

"When we opened the box it still had the perfume of the product that was in it.

"You open that, 2000 years later, like new. It was really exciting."

Here in Australia, Bruno has set up aworkshop at his home and primarily restores clocks and other objects for private clients.

He can be contacted via email on atelierbrunobell@gmail.com or phone 0413 422 637.

Bruno Bell and Amanda Dunsmore at their home in Pastoria East.

Some of the objects Bruno has restored.

B B ll d A d D t th i h i P t i E t S f th bj t B h t d

Car clipstruck

Adriver was lucky to escape injury when his car clipped aVicRoads truck on the Calder Freeway at Malmsbury last Thursday morning.

The man was travelling south on the freeway before the Malmsbury exit when he collided with the rear of the stationary advisory truck about 10am.

The truck was positioned against the centre wire rope barrier but was protruding into the right-hand lane with asign indicating to drivers to move into the left lane.

The collision caused the car to veer across both lanes and strike the wire rope barrier along the left-hand lane.

Police said alack of concentration may have been acontributing factor.

Ash Wednesday services

Commemorative services and a community gathering are being planned to mark the 40th anniversary of Ash Wednesday in February.

The first service will be held at the Church of the Resurrection, at the bottom of Honour Avenue in Macedon, on Sunday February 12 at 7.30pm.

The Community Gathering will be held at Centennial Park, on Mount Macedon Road opposite the Church of the Resurrection,

from 5.30pm on Thursday February 16 (The actual anniversary date).

This will be an informal gathering for people to meet, talk, share and remember the events of that day in 1983 and the lives lost. People are invited to bring along their own picnic, drinks, etc.

Asecond Commemorative Service will be held at the Church of the Resurrection at 7.30pm on the 16th and all are encouraged to walk across to the church for this service.

The driver of the vehicle was uninjured in the crash.

Depotgetsgreen light

Lisa Dennis

Acontractor’s depotwillbebuilt on farming land at Muckleford after gaining approvalatthe Victorian Civiland Administrative Tribunal.

TheVCAT decisionhas overturned a refusal by Mount Alexander ShireCouncil to grant apermittoapplicant Slingo EarthmovingCastlemaine

Theapplication forland at 315Butchers Road, Muckleford, wasknocked back by councila secondtimeinDecember2021 amidsafety concerns.

Apermitfor thedepot,which willsee heavy earthmoving vehicles turn off theincreasingly busy Maldon-Castlemaine Road near thetop of ahillsidecrest,had initially been rejected by thecouncilinOctober 2021 amidroadsafety concerns.

However,thatdecisionhad been rescinded at thecouncil’s November2021 meetingafter additional information relating to traffic safety provisionshad come to light.

When it wentback before the councilin December2021, Cr Gary McClure spoke strongly in favour of granting approval.

“I’m satisfied at this point that all of the traffic management issues havebeenaddressed,” Cr McClure told the meeting.

Butcouncillors Stephen Gardner and Matthew Driscoll wereamong those who remained opposed duetostronglyheld concerns aboutthe potentialimpacts on traffic safety on Maldon-Castlemaine Road.

The application ultimately failed 4:3with CrsDriscoll, Gardner, Maltbyand Annear votingagainst and Crs Cordy, McClureand Hendersoninfavour.

In the VCAT decision handed down on January 6, VCAT member MichaelDeidun overturnedthe council’s decisionand grant-

ed apermitfor use of theland for acontractor’s depot; to constructa building and construct or carry out works;alter access to aroadina TransportZone 2; andremoval of vegetation,including native vegetation. The permit is subject to 65 conditions.

Mr Deidunsaidthe traffic associated with the proposed useand development wascapable of being integratedwith thesurrounding roadnetwork in asafemanner

“The sightlines that areavailablealong Castlemaine-Maldon Road from the intersection withButchers Roadisanexisting constraint. Thatis, thisisnot aproposalto create anew intersection,ora new access point.Trucks associatedwith thesurrounding agricultural land uses currently usethis intersection, with no history of crashes at thisintersection,” he said.

“The proposed useand development will result in improvements to this intersection that willcomprisea wideningofButchers

Trentham to host practical workshops

Five sustainability and resilience workshops will be held at the Trentham Neighbourhood Centre between February 2and 23 Run in conjunction with Hepburn Shire Council’s storm recovery team, the workshops aim to build resilience and sustainability in the community.

The first workshop will teach participants how to create awicking bed. This class will be held on Saturday February 4.

The following classes will be held on February 11, 16, 18 and 23 and encompass composting and worm farms, Hepburn Seed savers, creating awicking bed, and food dehydrating and preserving.

Mayor Cr Brian Hood said the workshops would complement other events already

hosted by the storm recovery team.

“I expect many of our local residents, some of whom may already be well versed in biodiversity and sustainability practices, will be keen to tap into these free classes,” he said.

“They will be an important asset for existing practitioners and those new to these simple, yet effective, principles.”

The resilience and sustainability workshops are partly funded through the federal and state governments and are open to residents of Hepburn Shire.

Bookings incur a$10 fee, which goes to assist the Trentham Neighbourhood Centre. Visit www.trenthamnc.org.au/classes to make abooking.

Roadtoenabletrucks to enterand exit thisroadsimultaneously.This is an improvementthat will benefit existing road users,aswellasthe trafficgeneratedfrom the proposed use and development,” Mr Deidunstated.

The VCAT member said theassessment of sightlinesatthisintersection would not stopatthisdecision of thetribunal.

“Rather, the conditionsof apermitwill require aRoad Safety Audit,whichwillbe requiredtobereviewed and approvedby the DepartmentofTransport. Ultimately,it is the decision of theroadsafetyexperts at theDepartment of Transport,after the receiptofa RoadSafetyAudit, as to whethertoaccept theproposed sight distances. If they are not satisfied,then options remain to lowerthe speedalong this sectionofCastlemaine-MaldonRoad, or requireother improvements to be madeto this roadenvironment.”

The proposed depot was knocked backtwice over the safety of trucks entering and exiting the ButchersRoad and Maldon-Castlemaine Road intersection.

Media summer school

The Castlemaine State Festival is holding aYouth Media Summer School opportunity tomorrow and Thursday, January 18 and 19, at The Goods Shed, Castlemaine.

Do you care about culture? Want to express your opinion while gaining valuable skills in camera work, interview technique and word- smithing?

Join CSF’s creative learning producer Kate Stones, and local media professionals Elly Varrenti and Leonie Van Eyk for two amazing days of digital media discovery.

The Youth Media Summer School will prepare participants to be part of the CSF Youth Media Team during this year’s Castlemaine State Festival, March 24-April 9.

To book your place on the Youth Media Summer School, email kate@castlemainefestival.com.au

BraveGertiebattles on

seeking the

beloved sulphur-crested cockatoo

challenges as 2022 wound to aclose.

PCA director Roger Sellwood said little Gertie had to be rushed to the Melbourne Bird Vet Clinic in Scoresby on December 30 as she was prolapsing badly.

"She was examined and it was noted she had an unexpected and unusual weight gain, the first fear was atumour,"Roger said.

"However, after x-rays and an ultrasound, it was determined that it was fat and that her metabolism was playing up as she was already on astrict diet.

"The prolapse was stitched back into place, we were given antibiotics and pain killers and sent home, to try and correct her weight gain.

"She was put on acourse of Thyroxine and an even stricter diet, the poor darling thought she was going to starve!"

Roger said it was just afew days later that Gertie tore the stitches from the prolapse by straining too much, and they rushed her back tothe vetinScoresby.

"The weight gain was causing her to strain so much that she was prolapsing, she was stitched up again but tore the stitches out again before we left the clinic," he said.

"So now she is on her medication that helps prevent straining, but Istill have topush her cloaca back inside her 10 or 12 times a day, so it is hoped that with serious weight loss she will come good and stop the straining."

This episode cost more than $1200, money the charity just doesn’t have

"In order to keep caring for Gertie and our other birds, we are asking our friends and supporters to help us with adonation if they can," Roger said.

Funds raised will help cover Gertie's vet bills but also support PCA with their weeklyexpenses such as purchasing fresh fruit, vegetables, seed and medications for the birds in their care.

"The response we received last time wasincredible and we are extremely grateful for that ongoing support," he said.

All donations are fully tax deductible andcan be made directly to their account at BSB633 000, account number 150767309 or through PayPal via the website at www.parrotconservation.org.au

Breakfast back

The Kyneton Australia Day Breakfast is back after atwo-year covid-induced hiatus.

Hosted by the Lions, Rotary and Zonta Clubs, together with the Kyneton RSL, andsupported by Macedon Ranges Shire Council, Stockers Dairy, Bakers Delight and Monsieur Pierre, the free community breakfast will be held in the Kyneton Mechanics Reserve from 8am to 10am.

Head down to the reserve to enjoy sausages, bacon andeggs, andtea and coffee, and join in the celebration.

Man falls from balcony

Aman broke both his wrists after falling from the balcony of the Shamrock Hotel in Kyneton last Tuesday night.

Paramedics were called tothe scene just before 9.30pm.

The man, aged in his 20s, was taken to Royal Melbourne Hospital by road ambulance in astable condition with upper bodyinjuries.

Guildford charity Parrot Conservation Australia is once again

generous support of the local community after their

Gertie faced more health

Beloved sulphur-crested cockatoo Gertie had arough startto 2023.

Ranges readyfor refugees

Kyneton is at the forefront of places in the Macedon Ranges likely to soon become home to afamilyofrefugees currently living in acampoverseas.

Two local groups in the area –the Ranges Resettlement Group and KBCConnect –under the guidance of Community Refugee Sponsorship Australia, will be supporting the family and need assistance from anumber of people to make this successful.

The refugee families have been processed by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and the Australian Government and will arrive with permanent residency visas. They are ready to go and are just waiting on the phone call that will change their lives forever.

The tasks for people wanting to help are many, but include meeting and welcoming the new family at the airport when they arrive, providing temporary accommodation for the families, providing culturally appropriate food, assisting them to find permanent housing, furnishing the house with all items and electrical appliances needed, assisting the family to access Centrelink, Medicare, driving lessons, schooling for their children, employment and English language lessons as they may not speak any English upon arrival.

It does seem very daunting but the groups have already received some offers of support from the local Macedon Ranges community.

The big ticket item on this list is housing.

The Ranges Resettlement Group has already approached various local real estate agencies seeking assistance with housing but if there is anyone from the

local community who could help with a house that is clean and in good repair, preferably in the Kyneton township with a minimum of two bedrooms, members of the groups would love to hear from you.

The family will be eligible for the Government Rental Assistance payment, Job Seeker, parenting payment, etc until such time as employment can be found. Rental for the property could therefore be negotiated.

Survey begins

The majority of Victorian councils participate in this state-wide survey. The results are benchmarked against astate-wide average and similar sized local government areas.

If you would like to assist this family on their journey to anew life, the Ranges Resettlement Group has set up tax deductible donation site via CRSA you can find it at shoutforgood.com/fundraisers/ rangesresettlementgroup

Alternatively, donations can be made directly to an ANZ bank account.

Account Name: Ranges Resettlement Group BSB: 013 706 Account: 330 117 455

If you have donated to this account and would like an invoice for tax deduction purposes, contact Roger Barr on 0423 020 669 and an invoice will be mailed to you.

For further information or if you feel you can assist this project, contact (phone or text) Roger Barr –Ranges Resettlement Group on 0423 020 669, or Allan Semmens –KBC-Connect on 0401 614 929.

Membersofthe Ranges Resettlement Group are looking forwardtowelcoming arefugee familyintothe community

Castlemaine Theatre Company is holding aShakespeare Workshop for young people this coming Sunday.

The workshop, 'Speak the Speech', is suitable for 15-25 year olds and runs from 10am-5pm.

Four hundred years after his death, Shakespeare’s works continue to provide commentary to our lives and the human condition.

This one-day intensive workshop will explore Shakespeare’s language, look at scenes from his plays and

soliloquies. All this will take place in aplayful, fun-filled atmosphere.

The workshop will offer the opportunity for those interested in auditioning for CTC's 2023 production of Romeo and Juliet to hone their skills and master the language. Auditions will be held on January 29.

The 2023 production of Romeo and Juliet will be like no other.

Set in the dark and gritty laneways and alleys of the in-

ner city, two star-crossed young lovers navigate the seedy underworld in ahaze of love, hope and tragedy.

The workshop will take place at the Castlemaine Theatre Company base at Etty Street, Castlemaine. BYO morning tea and lunch. Bring awater bottle! The cost is $10/$5 concession (free for CTC members). Workshop presented by Rob Jorritsma and Toby Heydon. For more information or to register, phone Rob Jorritsma 0428 379 879.

The workshop will be agreat opportunity forthose keen to audition forCTC’sproduction ‘Romeo and Juliet’.

Newstead Live is set to make its longawaited return this weekend after two years of pandemic recess.

The four-day festival gets under way this Friday and will run through until Monday.

Newstead Live director Kelly Skinner said it had been aprivilege to have been at the helm of the local festival since 2014.

"I love folk music and Ilove Newstead so it's amatch made in heaven for me," she said.

"I just love bringing the event to life and it wouldn't be possible without the incredible support we receive from across the community."

The four-day festival will see more than 30 acts, workshops and events staged across awide array of venues including the ever-popular Troubadour Tent at the Newstead Recreation Reserve, Newstead Community Centre, the Anglican Church, Shedshaker Stage and Bar in the Newstead Park, Blackboard Sets at Dig Cafe coordinated by Danny de Silva, the Enviro

Shop, and an instrument makers exhibition at Newstead Arts Hub at the former Newstead Railway Station.

Children's entertainment will be at Newstead Pre-School ('Lilliput'), and of course the 'Live and Local' outdoor stage will be outside the pool in Panmure Street, which is blocked off for the weekend and will feature ahost of free entertainment covering an eclectic mix of genres and styles.

There will also be a'Pool Party' at the Newstead Pool on Sunday.

Among the acts to headline this year's festival are 2020 Troubadour Foundation Award winners, We Mavericks, and Western Australian poet Kate Wilson.

Other artists will include Australian Irish songwriter Enda Kenny, soulful guitarist Kerryn Fields, acclaimed singersongwriter-storyteller Michael Waugh, Scotland-born, Melbourne-based contemporary folk artist Rich Davies and the Low Road, just to name afew.

Forfestival and camping tickets visit newsteadlive.com

Newstead Live director KellySkinner is looking forwardtothe return of the festival in2023.

Castlemaine Football Netball Club

Get to knowour local community by volunteering or participating in football and netball at the Castlemaine Football Netball Club We areaClub with over150 years of history and we provide asafe, inclusiveand communityoriented program of football and netball forall ages. We arededicatedtoproviding competitivesporting opportunities forlocal young people in our region, under the banner of fitnessand fun. We have fivesenior netball teams, four senior football teams (including women's football) and multiple entry-points via our junior footy arm from AusKick through to U16 Girls and U16 Boys football

ForSeason2023wehaveanumberofvolunteer positions to fill, including team trainers, team managers, Club doctor, Club umpires and junior coaches and coordinators, as well as general volunteer positions. If you'rekeen to contribute to our local community and arenot sure where to start, youwill find asense of belonging at CFNC. #sidebyside

The MalmsburyCricket Club

Is afamilyoriented Club with emphasis on coaching and having fun. We have been around for over 150 years and have enjoyed much success. The MCG is an absolute picturewith both carpet and turf wickets. So, if you arelooking for agame of cricket, some fun and meeting new mates.........drop in to the MCG during cricket season.

MalmsburyCricket Club

E: malmsburycc2020@gmail.com P: Chris on 0402 003 972 www.malmsbury.vic.cricket.com.au

The MalmsburyRangers Baseball Club

The MalmsburyRangers areinto their third year of competition in the Bendigo Baseball Association. Our home ground is the picturesque MalmsburyCricket Ground, and our season goes from March through to July Come on, give baseball ago, you’ll love it. Have fun, get fit and meet some awesome people.

MalmsburyRangersBaseball Club

E: malmsburybaseball@gmail.com P: Jamie on 0490 824 537

Joina Jo CLUB CL

Welcome to the Riddell Football Netball Club forSeason2023

Firstly,after averysuccessful 2022 season we arelooking forwardtoanother enjoyable, successful year ahead across all netball and football grades. We have averystrong committee, volunteers and areall committed for the upcoming season to ensurethe success of the RFNC.

On the coaching front, we arepleased to welcome back Justin Belleville as our senior coach and Adrian Keltie leading the way for the reserves. We expect to be extremely competitive again in the 2023 season and look forwardto seeing old and new faces at pre-season training. Leading the way on the Netball front will be Head Coach Beck Anstey,Amy Schwegler has also recommitted to coach our Under 19 and C grade team. The Riddell Football Netball Club could not survive without the continued support of some veryloyal and dedicated sponsors. Members and supporters areencouragedto supportthose whosupportus. Stay tuned for updates on preseason training and RFNC news via our facebook page and webpage https:// riddellfnc.com.au/ –President, Brett Besanko (Bowser)

Riddell Football Netball Club

Soccer Basketball

Castlemaine FieldNaturalists Club

Whatbutterfly is that?

Where aregoodareas for seeing our local wildflowers?

Come andjoinwiththe CastlemaineField Naturalists to answer thesequestions and more

Meetings: second Friday of the month (except Jan) with guestspeakers on awide range of natural history topics; Castlemaine Uniting Church Hall or, in Winter, by zoom

Excursions: Saturdayafternoon followingthe Friday meeting. Family-friendly, guided field tripstoexplore ourwonderful bushlands here in Castlemaineand surrounds.

Monthlynewsletter: articles, reports on activities and members’ observations.

Footy Cricket Theatre Squash

Rotary Castlemaine

Areyou interested in becomingaRotarian and joining ournetwork of dedicatedvolunteers?

Whatare thebenefits of joining Rotary?

Becoming amemberconnects youwith a group of professionals whoshareyour driveto giveback. As part of our club, youwill:

• create newfriendships

• makeanimpact in your community

• connectwithother leaders

• expand your skills

• and much more

The Castlemaine Rotary Club is an active group of volunteersthatloves the work we do.Takeanhourout of your dayand joinusat ournextmeeting to see whatwe'reall about.

Rotary =People of Action

Get Your Basketball on! CASTLEMAINE.BASKETBALL@OUTLOOK.COM ContactMark Esparza at: Looking for aplace to play? Want to join the nextleague? 1. 2. Kids up to adults! 3. Need some extra cash? Referees get paid well! 4. Want to volunteer? We need coaches and chaperones. KN269200/K APOSITIVE GYMNASTICS MOVEMENT BUILDING PHYSICAL, SOCIAL AND MENTAL FOUNDATIONS FOR LIFE FREE TRIAL! BENDIGO: BENDIGO@JETSGYM.COM.AU GISBORNE:GISBORNE@JETSGYM.COM.AU KN269202/K KN269203/K

KN269099 KN269070/K Kyneton Football Netball Club PO Box 53 Kyneton 3444 E: secretary@kynetonfnc.com Go to www.kynetonfnc.com formembership details Join us at Tiger land in 2023! Become amember,sponsor or player, we welcome youtobepartofour passionate and engaging community club FIDA Netball –U17-ARes Football –Senior Mens and Womens Junior boys and girls Football –U10-U17 And of course,volunteers arealways needed! Letusknowifyou can help in anyway! KN 26 91 24 /K

Creek, VIC 3431 www.riddellfnc.com.au

Over themoonabout dance

For more than three decades Castlemaine’s Over The Moon Yoga and Dance Studio has trained generations of dancers.

From the age of just two years through to young adults and older, there is aclass for all ages in avariety to suit all, including yoga, creative dance, ballet, jazz, contemporary dance, choreography and physical theatre.

OTM also offers private coaching with highly trained ballet teachers

For adults, OTM offers classes in ballet barre and dance fitness alongside other dance styles as demand arises.

OTM is astudio that places astrong emphasis on creativity and a mindful relationship with the body. These focuses also enhance strong technique Although it is known as arecreational studio, it’s not unusual to see students graduate on to tertiary and preprofessional courses. Two OTM alumni graduated from tertiary dance studies at the Victorian College of the Arts and Deakin University in 2022

There are currently another two studying at the VCA and more taking full-time ballet and dance courses.

Most recently, two students have been accepted by audition into junior full-time ballet secondary school programs and one student has been awarded a dance scholarship from Girton Grammar School for the remainder of her secondary education

Longevity

The lifeblood of the studio is the collegiate relationship of the many highly credentialed dance teachers experienced in awide range of genres

Most teachers at Over The Moon have been associated with the studio for well over adecade, with two notable exceptions hitting the three-decade mark.

Many students have been apart of the OTM community from toddlerhood through to graduation in their late teens.

Students can expect weekly classes with an emphasis on solid technique, inclusivity, creativity and mentorship.

The OTM ballet program is curated by ballet principal Edwynna Adams, ahighly trained educator who studied with and was mentored by Laurel Martyn OBE. The senior ballet teacher at OTM is Zoey Schmitt, aformer dancer with The Australian Ballet. Both teachers were trained in the Vaganova Syllabus.

The yoga and creative dance program has been refined over 30 years by Belinda

Movement Zone is expanding

Movement Zone, aleading provider of urban dance for people of all ages, is expanding its weekly classes, currently held in Castlemaine, to take in Kyneton every Monday.

Movement Zone specialises in breakdancing, hip-hop, funk, groove therapy (adults), contemporary fusion, school workshops and entertainment. MZ’s goal is to ignite students’ passion for dance, engage the community through movement, and bring out the dancer in everyone.

Diversity is an integral part of MZ programs. Regardless of age, culture, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation or socioeconomic status, everyone is welcome. While respecting freedom of expression for everyone, MZ continually challenges itself and others. MZ prides itself on being inclusive and offering classes for people of all ages and abilities. MZ is also home to the famous Silver Top Dancers. With their electric showcases, these older adults bring joy throughout Victoria.

In 2021, MZ took home two business awards for Creative Industries and Accessibility. At the recent Victorian Community Achievement Awards, they were named atop-fourfinalist for their service.

In 2023, MZ will offer classes every Monday at Kyneton Sports and Aquatic Centre and weekly classes in Castlemaine.

Enrolments are now open at www.movementzonedance.com or sarah@movementzone. com

Prest, Thaïs Sansom, Cate Wotley, and principal, Edna Reinhardt. This program includes acomprehensive music education alongside the unique yoga education program developed at OTM by Edna Reinhardt and refined by the OTM team of teachers over many years.

Rigorous and fun contemporary and jazz classes are covered by senior teachers Seung Hi Lee and Zoey Schmitt respectively.

Edna Reinhardt saysthatin2023, OTM looks forward to focusing on much-loved events such as performances, mentoring programs, holiday programs, community events and more

“Have we started planning our junior and senior performances? Yes we certainly have,” Edna says

Enrolments and enquiries for 2023 can be made via the website www overthemoonstudio com , by emailing enquiries@overthemoonstudio com or phone 5470 5061

in2023 3

As time rolls around to dust off that backpack,fill it with new books and break in those new black shoes, take a look at whata myriad of schools across the region have to offer families and students whenclass begins for 2023.

in2023

Why choose Montessori?

Choosing the right early education provider begins with finding the people, place and program that makes you feel like your family belongs.

Families that choose Macedon Ranges Montessori Preschool value the importance of early childhood education and want their child to have the best start to life.

The importance of early childhood education to children’s lives is beyond question. Agoodbeginning to life is well recognised as the foundation for future development, health and wellbeing, not only in the early years, but also throughout life.

So how does Macedon Ranges Montessori Preschool prepare children for school and life success?

Every child learns in adifferent way and at their own pace. At Macedon Ranges Montessori Preschool, the educational team creates alearning program that is unique to every child. The multiage classroom is specially designed to encourage children to achieve their development potential at their own pace and actively participate in their learning.

The Montessori curriculum covers eight key areas that focus on the cognitive, social and emotional development of the child. Key curriculum areas include: practical life, sensorial, mathematics, language, science, geography, art and culture. The Montessori curriculum is

directly aligned with what children will learn in primary school and beyond.

In aMontessori classroom, children are grouped with different ages and are encouraged to collaborate and help each other. This structure to the learning environment encourages children to learn to respect each other, develop the skills of collaborative problem solving, and build a sense of community.

The primary consideration in the design of the learning programs, facilities and classroom is to create a learning environment that is supportive of children’s interests and development needs as they grow. In this nurturing environment, alove of learning develops that sets positive foundations for a lifetime.

Macedon Ranges Montessori Preschool adheres to the best practices of the Montessori philosophy and approach to early learning, combined with the curriculum of the Victorian Early Years Learning Framework.

Choosing an early education program for your child is one of the most important decisions aparent makes. Make the choice to put your child into an educational program where they will learn more than just the core subjects of maths of language, but also the skills of collaboration, self-motivation, independence and alife-long love of learning. (See advert page 16.)

in2023

Head start on final year

In preparation for the coming year, Girton’s final-year students will attend an exclusive two-day conference in Melbourne before the academic school year starts. At the conference they’ll immerse themselves in arange of tours and lectures at Melbourne, Monash, Swinburne and Deakin Universities.

Girton Grammar School principal Dr Emma O’Rielly says the VCE Conference sets the tone and expectations for year 12 students in preparation for the year ahead.

“Our VCE Conference is intended to be both aspirational and inspirational,” Dr O’Rielly says.

The conference will culminate aformal dinner at University College with motivational guest speakers and past Girton students, Tom Duke and Jorja Watts.

Graduating from the University of Melbourne with first class honours, Tom furthered his

studies with aMaster of Business Analytics at Melbourne Business School and is now an interdisciplinary consultant and engagement manager at McKinsey and Company.

Jorja graduated from Monash University with amarketing degree and undertook aGlobal Study Program in China and Hong Kong with Monash Business School and further studies in Montreal on an artificial intelligence and data science learning expedition. Abrand operations specialist, Jorja coordinates global operations and domestic and international logistics for Bread Beauty Supply.

(Photo: Dr O’Rielly with 2023 student leaders.)

Best foot forward

When it comes to having your child fitted in the perfect pair of school shoes ready for the school year ahead you can’t go past Maine Shoes and Accessories in Barker Street Castlemaine.

Maine Shoes and Accessories operators Carina and Neil Bouch and their team are experts when it comes to school footwear.

Carina says there has been ashoe store on the site at 174 Barker Street for more than 130 years and they are proud to continue the tradition of providing quality footwear to the people of Castlemaine and district.

“The store has only been owned by a few families in that time. Icame to work here in 2000 when Nola and Laurie Harding owned the business. They sold afew years later to Stacey and Tim Solly and then in 2015 my husband Neil and I took over the business,” Carinasays.

Carina says the teams behind the store have always prided themselves on stocking quality men’s, ladies’ and children’s footwear.

“We are continuing the tradition of being afamilyshoestore and employ Bronwyn our sister, as well as Raelene.”

Some of their most popular and trusted brands include Josef Seibel, Rockport, Hush Puppies, Clarks, Bobux, Skechers, Converse and Emu Australian sheepskin boots.

“All our staff members have aClarks’ certificate for fitting footwear,” Carina says.

“We offer agreat rangeofschool shoes from formal shoes to sports shoes ranging from pre-school to secondary levels up to asize 13-14.”

Go see the friendly team at Maine Shoes and Accessories to ensure your child is ready to put their best foot forward in 2023.

The future requires ambition, determination and resilience. It’s fueled by positivity, agrowthmindset and openness to new ideas,new ways of doing things.

It needsa moral compass and the strength of character to standupwhen required and be accountablewhen mistakes aremade.

The future is the ability to collaborate, to supportothersand applaud their success while striving foryourown. To trulybepart of ateamwhile embracing individuality

It’s reaching out and reaching up,lending ahand to friendsand strangersalike.It’s saying “yes”and putting kindness above self-interest

The future is now.

To find out moreabout the Girton differenceand howwecan help your childbecome future ready,including scholarship opportunities, call our Registraron54413114orsee our website: girton.vic.edu.au

Everyone is valued

Our Lady of the Rosary Parish School Kyneton aims to provide an inclusive curriculum that meets the needs of all students. They believe in providing learning and teaching experiences that promote catholic identity and the value and dignity of all human persons.

The school also works collaboratively with parents and the wider community with the understanding that this contributes to the development of the whole child. This partnership enhances learning and fosters connectedness with all stakeholders.

OLR also believes in creating motivated and passionate learners who confidently take risks and are inspired to be curious and creative.

The school also fosters acollaborative learning environment where each child’s academic, social, emotional and personal capabilities are valued, developed and celebrated.

Children have the right to learn and that opportunity should be provided for them to access the curriculum at their point of need.

OLR is also committed to using current and best practice in emerging technologies to enhance learning opportunities that responsibly and effectively engage with the local and global community.

The team at OLR also believes in creating safe, stimulating and collaborative learning environments to enable life-long learning competencies.

in2023

All prepared for school

Tylden Primary School is ready to welcome its new prep students and they are excited about starting school and keen to learn!

The preps have completed the transition to school program, with its classroom and playground experiences, and are already familiar with their new school. Grade six students have started their mentoring role as ‘Big Buddies’ and they will continue to help the new preps all year in this special ‘Buddy’ relationship.

Tylden Primary School will also warmly welcome Ms Allira Dickins to the teaching team. First term is always very busy at Tylden PS. Alot of hard work is done during the holidays to prepare the classrooms and grounds for the coming year. New resources have been purchased for education programs and the whole school looks terrific,” principal Lee MacDonald says.

“Our school garden has been carefully maintained and we have fresh summer vegetables ready to be harvested for the

Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program. This popular and highly successful program will be offered to students in grades three and four in 2023.

“The school fair coordinators have started organising the return of our famous Tylden Primary School Country Fair. This will be the first school fair since 2019, and it is promising to be better than ever! It will be on Saturday March 25. Please note that date in your diary because the Tylden PS Country Fair is not to be missed!”

Tylden Primary School offers excellent academic and extra-curricular programs. High-quality, evidence-based literacy and numeracy programs ensure the development of strong literacy and numeracy skills for all children. Tylden PS still has some vacancies for 2023. You are warmly invited to contact the school to arrange aschool tour and see how much it has to offer.

For enrolment enquiries, phone the principal Lee MacDonald on 5424 8244.

in2023

Learn, care, flourish

Sacred Heart College’s motto ‘Learn. Care. Flourish.’ not only celebrates the three essential principles of aSacred Heart education, it also encapsulates why being at school is so important after three years of uncertainty and interruptions. These three simple words describe the rich, deep and personalised opportunities that Sacred Heart College offers as a Catholic school in the Mercy tradition.

The 2023 Sacred Heart College theme is ‘Respect –see the person within’.

Sacred Heart College has, as acore principle, the nourishing of right and respectful relationships; relationships defined by compassion, forgiveness and love. After several years of unprecedented uncertainty, many students have struggled with the simple action of respecting one another. The origins of the word, ‘respect’, challenge each member of the school community to look closely at each other, at acommonhumanity and to see the person within.

As the shared focus for students and staff during 2023, this theme celebrates one of the six Mercy values that inform all aspects of college life. These six values –respect, compassion, courage, service, hospitality and justice –link the school directly to the Christian story that is our purpose of being.

The college’s incoming year sevens can look forward to acomprehensive transition program that will support the fundamental move from primary school into secondary education. The new students will have many opportunities to make new friends and nourish existing relationships while enjoying the new and exciting learning experiences that Sacred Heart College offers.

Principal Dr Darren Egberts encourages those in the local community currently considering options for their children’s secondary journey to learn more about the diverse educational offerings of Sacred Heart College Kyneton, by visiting its website or contacting the college registrar to book an onsite tour.

Good fit, great comfort!

Kyneton Shoes should be well within your stride when you are looking for new footwear for the school year.

Whether it be for alittle one starting out on their educational journey or alanky teenager who’s shot up to great heights during the school holidays, Kyneton Shoes can size anyone up.

It’s important to get the fit just right and Geraldine and Andrew at Kyneton Shoes know what is needed. Each child is expertly and personally fitted with topquality shoes that will feel right every day of the ‘23 school year.

The range of school shoes includes something for every taste whether it be velcro fastenings, mary-jane styling, solid lace ups or t-bars, it’s available. The range of brands is also extensive and includes all-time favourites such as Clarks, ROC, Bata, Grosby, Surefit, Wilde and Sfida.

Of course, sport will probably be on the go again at school this year and Kyneton Shoes has footwear just right for anumber of sporting activities.

Andrew and Geraldine are locals who know local needs so they are the people to see for those musthave, well-fitted school shoes. (See advert page 23.)

Preparing for the future

Students attending Kyneton High School are drawn from townships and rural areas right across the Macedon Ranges. Most students travel to and from school by bus. Kyneton High School has a population of about 500 students in years seven to 12, supported by adedicated teaching and non-teaching staff.

KHS is more than 100 years old and has arich tradition of engaging with the local community. They work with surrounding primary schools in numerous joint projects aimed at enhancing student transition between the schools and into the community.

Kyneton High School’s mission is to work in partnership to own its own learning, engaging with the wider community and preparing students for their futures as responsible, successful adults. KHS strives for excellence, developing confidence and embracing diversity in arespectful, sustainable environment.

Kyneton High School can offer your child acomprehensive academic curriculum culminating in the Victorian Certificate of Education, Vocational Education and Training and Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning, as well as abroad range of practical ‘hands-on’ subjects delivered within astrong welfare network of homegroup teachers, counsellors and support staff. They also provide strong individual and program support for students with additional learning needs.

in2023

Time and space for learning

Often when new families visit Castlemaine Steiner for the first time, they are looking for something specific for their children’s education.

In an increasingly busy and digital world, an area that understandably receives alot of focus is the Steiner education approach to digital and information technologies.

The Guardian newspaper published an article in 2015 about the employees of some of the biggest ‘tech giants’ in Silicon Valley who send their children to Waldorf/ Steiner schools. It explored how Steiner education put innovative thinking capacities and child development at its centre, with predominantly screen-free classrooms –and with no rush to acquire ‘tech’ skills.

At CSSK, along with the more than 1000 Steiner schools worldwide, they opt for lowtech classrooms in the primary years.

“We support our young people to be creative, curious and articulate and promote achildhood experience with time and space to sing, think, play, create, listen, read, write and relate,” principal Nerrida Johnson says.

“Through providing arich and imaginative curriculum, we aim to inspireagenuine love for learning and strive to help each child develop their unique abilities, with the capacity and understanding to step into their purpose and potential.”

Steiner students achieve so much more than the academic skills necessary to succeed in higher education.

“We are providing an empowering education for our students, one that nurtures inner strength, a love of learning and areal connection with teachers and peers. Specialist ICT lessons are introduced in year seven at CSSK, with students quickly picking up the technology skills required. We are getting alot of enquiries from parents who are looking for something different –aneducation that will truly meet their children’s learning needs.”

Families interested in finding out more about Castlemaine Steiner are encouraged to contact the school or book aplace on the next school tour on Friday January 20. Contact enrolments officer Tracey on 5479 2000 or traceyr@cssk.vic.edu.au

SUPER QUIZ?

Local knowledge (1 point) 1. What is the name of the organisation currently working to rebuild flood-damaged fences in the Macedon Ranges?

Where is Granite Hills Winery located?

How many McIntyre Cup teams are there in the Gisborne District Cricket Association? 4. Where can our local ‘MCG’ be found? (3 points) 5. What is the name of the archery range just outside of Castlemaine?

General knowledge (1 point) 6. In the Chinese Horoscope, 2023 is the year of the ...? 7. How many sides does atrapezium have?

8. Who wrote the Pulitzer Prize–winning novel The Grapes of Wrath?

9. Who is the current prime minister of the UK? (3 points)

10. What is the longest word that can be made using the keys on only one row of the keyboard?

YourOPINIONS

No justicefor Riddells Creek Men’s Shed

Chris Clark,RiddellsCreek

In April 2021, the acting president of the Riddells Creek Neighbourhood House, suspecting the Men's Shed had their own bank account, immediately cancelled the auspice agreement between them, which had been put in place by the previous Committee of Management in 2013.

There was no phone call to the president of the MS, no check made to anyone in the shed to establish if what she believed was correct. It was not.

There have been numerous meetings between the NH and MS and the council over the past 20 months.

There have been letters to the Shire CEO and to the ward councillors. All to no avail.

We mustatleast try Chris Hooper,Castlemaine

Iagree with James McArdle ('Let's strengthen CAM', Opinions,January 10) that we should support the Castlemaine gallery's efforts to raise funds.

It's in adifficult situation being 'owned' by the community.

Hopefully the government will give sustainable funding but maybe if the community is able to cover the debt and raise money for day-to-day costs the government may think we can continue doing that? But we must at least try and see what happens.

In messages from the gallery to members it was said that funds raised would go toward local and national exhibitions. This doesn't seem to be day-to-day costs?

Idon't understand this desire to have big national shows at our little regional gallery. Leave that to Bendigo, Ballarat and

Geelong that arebiggerand have more money. Ihave been told that local artists' exhibitions also have acostwith signage, graphic design etc. and the artists are paid. Very generous of the gallery but when you don't have much money maybe this is money misspent. Surely the kudos of showing at Castlemaine gallery plus some sales is enough for an artist?

At commercial galleries artists often pay for the space AND pay acommission on sales so afree'known' space and sales is pretty good Ithink.

When abusiness doesn't have much money then it has to operate very leanly. The gallery ran "on the smell of an oily rag" for years –just have to continue that.

The recent shows with invited artists selecting from the collection to show with their work have been really good. CAM has such afabulous collection, let's see it throughout each year.

Family forced to putfuneralonhold

ACarlsruhe family wasleft devastated over Christmas after having to put afuneral on hold for almost three weeks.

Garry Birrell died on Christmas Eve and had reserved a pre-paid plot in the Carlsruhe Cemetery next to his mother’s grave but his family was alerted on Christmas Day that burials in existing pre-paid plots were forbidden due to the discovery of a 20-year-old environmental overlay protecting native grass.

Aspokesperson for the Cemetery Trust said the trust had contacted pre-paid plot holders in order to let them know they were working with the council, state and federal government departments to resolve the issue.

“No new plots are being released and the trust has some alternative plots set aside at the cemetery for anyone who has a pre-paid plot at the moment,” the spokesperson said.

Garry’s sister Anne-Maree said initial advice was that permission for Garry’s burial in his plot could take months and could actually be impossible because of acomplex bureaucratic web that needed to be negotiated to resolve the issue.

“This mess needs to be sorted out now, losing my brother at Christmas was shock enough, but to have to endure three weeks of additional mental anguish through appalling bureaucratic incompetence is not on,” Anne-Maree said.

“We had no idea of this fiasco and despite the Cemetery Trust working to find aresolution during most of 2022, it unfortunately took Garry’s death to bring it to public attention.”

Rob Ball, acting director of planning and environment with Macedon Ranges Shire Council, said the cemetery contained high-quality native vegetation that was protected under state and federal legislation and the Macedon Ranges Planning Scheme.

“This means the Cemetery Trust, which manages the

cemetery, requires an ecological assessment and/or permit before any decision can be made to remove vegetation on the site,” Mr Ball said.

“Council worked closely with the Cemetery Trust’s ecologist to organise an urgent assessment of whether the plot reserved by the family contains protected native grasses.”

Mr Ball said the ecologist conducted their assessment last Friday week and advised the trust and council that the specific plot did not contain protected native grasses and therefore, subject to aplanning permit being issued by council for the removal of vegetation, could be used for the burial.

The council issued aplanning permit last Monday to allow the funeral to be held last Wednesday.

Garry’s brother Russell said the family wanted to thank members of the Cemetery Trust and the council for working hard to facilitate the permit for Garry’s burial.

“We were in total disbelief that environmental restrictions could close ahistoriccemetery with such important cultural and heritage importance for the Carlsruhe township,” Russell said.

“Are there similar implications for all other cemeteries in Victoria?

“Our family hopes that others with pre-paid plots do not go through such aheartbreaking experience, and sense prevails allowing the cemetery to reopen for those without pre-paid plots.”

The Trust spokesperson said they were keen to reopen the cemetery and work with the community to manage it sensitively with the environmental overlays.

“We recognise the significance of the vegetation and believe there are ways of operating as acemetery while preserving the significant vegetation,” the spokesperson said.

Russell Birrell stands at his mother’s and brother’s graves at the Carlrsuhe Cemetery

Midland

PROPE RT Y&L IV IN G

An absolute paradise

Set with rural views and leafy gardens, this renovated 1940s Art Deco farmhouse offers awarmlystyled and almost never-ending interior with generous living zones and four double bedrooms that all feature modern timber windows that frame agardenoutlook.

Immersed in treed gardens that include an ornamental cherry tree avenue plus olives, manchurian pears and many natives, the character home has averanda entry, polished timber floors, main and ensuite bathrooms, alarge central kitchen with meals area and Smeg 900mm cooker.

There is acosy office-library room with gas fireplace, adjoining lounge-dining with wood

fireplace and french doors to alarge decked entertaining area, separate multi-purpose family room with reverse cycle air and doors to acovered alfresco zone, and alaundry with good built-in storage.

Outdoors there is adouble carport, substantial parking space, storage sheds, lush-leafy gardens and aseparate studio with bathroom and large decked veranda. This is used for Air BnB, with ahistory of solid bookings and healthy income potential. The property has town water, excellent fencing, NBN connection, and back-to grid solar.

Offering so much space, potential for income and work from home spaces in beautiful garden surrounds, this is aspecial country property with aborrowed outlook and the convenience of the general store, community playground, pool and nearby primary school all so close.

Countrycottage charm

Great street appeal and cute as a button, this charming and picturesque country cottage enjoysa fantastic location only ashort stroll from the many Harcourt amenities. Alifestyle destination, Harcourt is easily accessed from Melbourne on the Calder Highway in under 90 minutes, making this a perfect weekend getaway or holiday let. Equally, it would make an ideal first home. And with agenerous block size of 671m2, it also offers the savvy renovator plenty of room to extend (STCA).

Retaining many original features, the cottage consists of three delightful bedrooms, the main with built-in robe and french doors that open onto the front garden, cosy lounge complete with open fireplace, compact but efficient kitchen, separate meals area and combined bathroom/laundry.

Outside, established trees provide shade and privacy, and the large wooden deck offers plenty of room for outdoor entertaining. Additional features include reverse cycle split system, secure rear yard, low maintenance gardens, 3.5m x8mgarage/workshop and single car carport.

"Springview" on PipersCreek 130DickinsLane,Barfold

Settledintheearly1900sthissignificantruralholdingwaspartoftheoriginal Barfold Estate.Covering approximately 207 acres, thepropertyboasts volcanic soil enabling excellent carrying capacity,generous infrastructure, andunlimitedwatersources.Enjoying aone-kilometre frontage on picturesquePipersCreekandallowsfornumerousbreathtakingresidential sitestobuild yourdream home,thisisarareopportunity to live in arural settingand pursuealucrative farmingenterpriseinasereneand highly desirable location

Infrastructureincludesand notlimitedto; eight25-acre paddocks including alucerne crop paddock,pasture improvements,highvolume potablebore, twospring-fed dams,extensiveshedding,and astudio.The opportunity to purchaseaneighbouring 158acres (approx)alsoexists.

Just a15-minute drivefromKyneton.

Private Sale

Inspect

By appointment

Land 837 ha (approx)

Price $1,800,000 -$1,980,000

TomMay 0413 996 185

Carole Lenander 0401 472 346 Woodend 5427 2800

13 Mill Street,Kyneton

Hereisarareopportunitytopurchasevacantlandwithdirectriver frontage anda peaceful outlookacross neighbouring farmland This 1,062 sqmallotment is in an establishedand highlysoughtafterareaofKyneton.Thelandcomeswithaplanningpermitand endorsed drawingsfor twohigh-quality,sustainable Wolveridge Architects designed homes

Ideally locatedalong theCampaspe RiverWalklinking historical PiperStreetand onwardstothe BotanicalGardens,justminutes away from allthatwonderfulKynetonhas on offer;the gastronomic delights of PiperStreet, thriving community spirit historic streetscapes,V/Line station foreasycommuting to Melbourne andBendigo. This is an excellent opportunity to take advantageofcompletingawell-establishedvisionorcreatingyour own. Thechoiceisyours.

Private Sale

Inspect

By appointment

Land 1,062sqm (approx)

Price $750,000 -$820,000

TomMay 0413 996 185

JennyStewart 0408 389 071 Woodend 5427 2800

1.30pm

TowerHill -Circa 1880

-$2,750,000

Timeless styleand ameticulousrenovationprogram combine in this landmark 19th centuryKyneton residence,set on a2,090 sqm(half-acre)gardenallotment in thecentre of town.Framed by centuryold oakand elm trees, andborderedby Portuguese Laurelsand Camellias thereisastrongconnectiontothe landscape with stunning garden vistasatevery turn,and thehomeskilfully marriesoriginal Victorian elementswith the lightnessand transparency of modernconstruction Arecentlyconverted gardensheddoublesasa pool house, home officeorguest bedroomand retains theoriginalshinglesand trussesasa visual connection to thepast. Built onbluestone footings with atessellated verandaand wide entry hall,this is ahome that references thepast, while providingacalming and enriching spaceinwhich to relaxand unwind.

8Mair Street, Kyneton

Heritage Home in the Heart of Kyneton

ForSale

EPR $980,000 -$1,070,000

Thetimelessstyle of this 1880’s period home sits in harmonywith the numerous heritage homesinthisreveredlocation. This unique property features threegenerousbedroomsand alarge bathroom offa centralhallway, leadingtothe comfortableliving room andspaciouskitchen/diningarea showcasing theoriginalchimney,hearthand cast iron oven.One of the standout features of thepropertyisthe modern self containedstudionestled at therearofthe enormous backyard. Featuringtwo large airconditioned rooms, French doors, astylish bathroom andsecurestorageshed.

2 4 2 910 sqm

92 FoxesLane, Kyneton Tranquil Family Living with Room to

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

3Bloomfields Lane, Tylden Manageable acreage with Scenic RuralVistas

ForSale

EPR: $860,000 –$940,000

Highly desirablefor its quietcountry lanewith farreachingdistrictand mountain views,this 3bedroom home hasa strong connectionwith the outdoors,with rooms bathed in sunlight overlookingthe surroundinglandscape.There is acomfortingfamily friendly flowwith an easy open plan living environment, expansiveverandahs front andrear, large privatedeckand firepitarea. Forthose seekingmorespace, thereisthe opportunitytohaveaself-sustainable lifestyle with an abundanceoffruit treesand vegetablegardenprovidingnumerous options.

3 1 4 4,617sqm (1.14 acres)

This superb 6.36Ha(15 acre approx.)propertymustbeviewedtobetruly appreciated. A4bedroom treasuredbrick family home with district views, establishedgardens, an independentdouble-glazedstudio, aglass house anda7acregrazing paddock(approx.)that fronts theCampaspeRiver, combine to delivercountry living at its peaceful finest. Theupdated, ownerbuiltresidence andgardens have been meticulously maintained,ready to be enjoyed. GraceParkfeels aworld away from thehustle andbustle yetis mere momentsfrompopularPiper Street andKyneton’s town centre

Right on Roberts

View Sat21st January 10:20-10:40am Contact NickHaslam 0422 848 662

Resting in Malmsbury -avillage with as much history as it has heart -this exquisite home is original and renovated in all the right places.

Preserved in the artful renovation are those period-style features you know and love such as intricate rose-wall details, original hardwood cabinetry, cedar walls and fireplaces that once roared centuries ago. Apiano parlour in its heyday, your attention is drawn to the modernised kitchen and bathroom where pressed tin

walls and pitched ceilings draw excellent light.

Awoodfire heater keeps the three bedrooms toasty warm or catch the sun on the north facing verandah or patio.

On alovely big block (approx. 1022m2), you’re walking distance to the Macedon Ranges’ treasured bluestone township. Atrain and the Calder Freeway connect you to Bendigo and Melbourne or ground yourself and enjoy life’s simplicity in a home bursting with personality.

garden allotment, gently elevated on the west side of Gingell Street. Enjoy an inner city locale whereyou can have both aleafy outlook, yet all Castlemaine’samenities at your doorstep. The long held home features 3double bedrooms, afront porch, entry hallway and open lounge-dining room on the north side of the home with original brick fireplace. Original dine-in kitchen with overhead cupboards, original bathroom, wash house and toilet. The home has picturerailing, double hung windows, tall ceilings and timber floors. The grounds arewell fenced and include an original sandstone retaining wall. Surrounded by many large and lovely period homes, your areamongst good company and with its walk-everywhereposition -a renovation of your choice beckons and would be rewarded.

Tucked in behind the Five Flags Café and Pub, this deceptively spacious and lovely home sits on alevel 900m2 allotment with north facing rear,lush lawns, local sandstone walled gardens and adrive-through double garage with offstreet parking for afurther 2-3 cars. The home has agarden and verandah entry,hallway-foyer with leadlight, a suite sized main bedroom with walk-in robe, air conditioning and ensuite bathroom. Thereare afurther 2double bedrooms with robes and ceiling fans, 2living areas –one with awood?reand featurestone hearth,the other with abuilt-in media-work space; open dining area with air conditioning that opens onto alarge sun-deck, plus a spacious kitchen with much storage, oven, dishwasher and matching laundry-mud room. Outdoors is well fenced, has garden shedding, shade trees, water tank and lots of space to garden. The local Primary School is just ahop-skip and jump away,asisthe Café, Pub and local, sports and bush-lands. Move in and enjoy the style and convenience.

Establishing anew benchmark in contemporary design, this stunning near new residence custom designed and locally built in 2020 -25McKenzie Wayshowcases expansive proportions, great quality and timeless character.Only moments from Castlemaine’sshops, cafes and restaurants, public transport, and local schools, including Winters Flat Primary and Castlemaine Steiner school, this well situated residence is astone’sthrow away from recreational andretailamenities,including the Castlemaine Golf Course at Muckleford. Inside, an expansive entrance with polished concrete floors flows through to agenerous, light filled living area.

Positioned in the centreoftown, on aleafy garden allotment of 1015m2, 44 Campbell Street is abeautiful solid brick Victorian home that offers awonderful lifestyle –whereschools, shops, train station and Kalimna Wildflower Park arealmost on your doorstep. Featuring aclassic wide veranda entry with detailed fretwork, the home has acentral arched hallway,decorative ceilings and afour-room layout providing for 3double bedrooms and asitting room. Thereisacountrystyle kitchen with atraditional wood cooker in the fireplace and arear sunroom with garden outlook.

DOOR-STEP

Country living awaits with alevel, lovely 1acregarden that offers privacy,dam and town water all on the edge of Maldon whereeither the shopping hub, local golf course or Primary School areall just 1.5km stroll away.Offering multiple strings to its bow -this versatile property comprises: BRICK HOMESTEAD with return verandahs andbalcony that overlooks the gardens, has alarge leafy alfresco area, and avast covered entertainment area with bar.The home features 3double bedrooms with robes, large family bathroom with spa and shower

McKenzie Hill 25 McKenzie Way

LUXURYMODERN LIFESTYLE

Mt. Macedon, Metcalfe, Chewton, Harcourt, Newstead,Maldon,Taradale, Elphinstone, Campbells Creek, Guildford, Barkers Creek, Sutton Grange Baringhup,Muckleford, Yapeen.

ELLIOTT MIDLAND NEWSPAPERS KYNETON

3Market St., PO Box153,Kyneton, 3444

Telephone: (03) 5422 1488 Facsimile: General (03) 5422 3173

CASTLEMAINE

13 Hargraves St.,POBox

Starting kindergarten is an exciting time in achild’s life. Considering if your child is ready for kindergarten is an important step in helping set the foundations for apositive educational journey for them.

It is important to be aware there are options of when to start kindergarten. For example, your child can start three-year-old kindergarten if they turn three on or before April 30 in the year that they will start kindergarten (their starting the program will be delayed until their third birthday). However, they can start three-year-old kindergarten the following year when they are four, which will mean they start school when they are a little older.

The Victorian Government funds one year of three-year-old kindergarten and one year of four-year-old kindergarten. There isn’t an opportunity to complete asecond year of funded three-year-old kindergarten and for achild to repeat four-year-old kindergarten, they need to be assessed as being delayed in two or more development areas by their teacher, while also having asecond year approved by the Department of Education and Training.

In light of this, considering whether your child is ready for kindergarten is an important step. Kindergarten is awonderful and positive experience and your child will get the most out of it if they start when they are socially ready, and have developed the skills and abilities to cope with the kindergarten environment.

Other factors families might take into consideration about when their child begins kindergarten include your child’s developmental and learning levels, family circumstances and preferred school starting age.

Use the calculator on vic.gov.au/kinder and enter your child’s birthdate to find out what year your child can start three-year-old kindergarten: www.vic.gov.au/give-yourchild-the-best-start-in-life

If you feel you need more support in considering your child’s readiness for kindergarten, you can speak to ateacher by calling your local kindergarten service or booking an appointment for your child with amaternal child health nurse by calling 5422 0281. To find your nearest kindergarten, visit www.mrsc.vic.gov.au/Live-Work/Children/Kindergarten/Find-a-Kindergarten

GILBERT(nee TURNER)

Deaths

Leslie Thomas Shearer

Les died on 11th January2023 aged 88 years.

Loving and caring husband of Yvonne and adored Daddy of Kerry.

The eldest of the three Shearer boys, Kevin and Alan (Dec).

Great friend of Paul,Harry, Fr Noel, Linda, Rocketand manyothers Just agreat blokewho would do and did anything to help With God until we all meet again.

In keeping with Les' wishes aprivate cremation has been held.

GILBERT

Hazel Florence 29.10.1922 -11.1.2023

GILBERT (nee Ainger) Hazel Florence 29.10.1922 -11.1.2023

Died peacefully surrounded by family Lovedwifeof Ernie (Dec).

Loving mother of Yvonne (deceased), Lynette and Rhonda.

Loving mother-in-law of Peter,Brian, Jim and Ian.

ILBE

To our special Nana, We love and adore youand willcherish all the wonderful

KN269253/L

Loving Nan of 6 grandchildrenand 3 step-grandchildren.

Adored Nana of 9 greatgrandchildren Her lifewas lived to the fullest.

GILBERT (nee Turner) HazelFlorence 29.10.1922 –11.1.2023

Our Family Matriarch She had the best life and died peacefully and with dignity She lovedtolive. Our memories to hold forever. Nowsafewith Nana Sarah. Rhonda &Jim

Deaths/Funerals

Glynne Samson

Passed

Deaths/Funerals

Passed away peacefully at Penhall Hostel in Castlemaine on 6th January2023aged 94 years.

Dearly lovedbyher husband France (dec), her 3children Donald, Philip and Leanne, their partners Susan, Pamela and Neil, hergrandchildren Adam,Paul, Mathew, Patricia, Heather (dec), David, Anne, Katherine,Emily,Michael, Alana and Lachlan and her 11 great grandchildren.

Thank youtoall who cared forher at Penhall Hostel, Dr Emily Girdwood and Dr Helen Dewhurst.

Aprivate burial service washeld at Campbelltown Cemetery on 11th January.

BelovedwifeofAndrew(dec), loving mother of Iain and Catriona, mother-in-lawofCatherine and Graham, much lovedNanna to Andrew, Lachlan and Phoebe Akind, generous and graceful lady, who always sawthe best in everythingand everyone Our hearts are broken with her passing, butour livesare filled with her love, joyand care

Aservice to celebrate Glynne’slife will be held in the Chapel of Mount Alexander Funerals, 12 Campbell Street, Castlemaine on Friday 20th Januaryat2.00pm.

Following this service the cortege will leave forthe Castlemaine Cemetery. Please bring flowers from your garden to place on Glynne’scoffin Theservice will be livestreamed forthose unable to attend.

Fordetails visit Glynne’stribute page on the website of Mount Alexander Funerals

Judith MaralynElizabeth Culvenor

away surrounded by her loving family at Bendigo Health on 8th January2023, aged 84 years

GRASS SLASHING

The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful foranadvertiser to showany intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy,race, age,marital status,political or religious belief or activity,industrial activity,parental or carer status physical features,disability,lawful sexual activity/ sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with aperson with one of the above characteristics,unless covered by an exception or granted an exemption under the Act. As we could be legally liable if we print an unlawful advertisement, we will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. Formore information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.

KN265461

Golf extravaganza! extravaganza!

There’s agolfing bonanza at the Lancefield course this Sunday, with aguaranteed payout of $100 on 18 different holes, plus the chance to win $500 and afullgolf club membership for 12 months for aspecific hole-in-one.

This goes with the two-person Ambrose event over the approved par 3course, and golfers from far and wide, even if you don’t have aregistered handicap, are encouraged to participate.

“We couldn’t stage this special day without the generous support of the Lancefield and Romsey Community Bank (Bendigo Bank),” club president Glen Holland said.

The bank’s senior manager, Angela Dickins, said this was yet another example of the bank getting right behind local and community bodies, recognising their beneficial involvement.

“We support the community in many ways, and invite local residents to visit or contact our branches at Lancefield and Romsey and learn how we can help them,” Ms Dickins said.

There’s already been plenty of interest shown in Sunday’s extravaganza, with hit-off scheduled from 10am to 10.30am.

Ambrose entry is $25 per person (includes barbecue) with prizes for the winning team and runners-up.

Par 3days have proved popular at different venues in the past.

Having 18 chances to finish nearest the pin and win $100 on every hole if your ball finishes the closest is arealchallenge to many, irrespective of their golfing skills.

If you want to play, register by phoning 0476 472 025, or email lgclub@bigpond.net.au

If you haven’t got ahandicap, one will be allocated for the day.

The day will also serve as an important fundraiser for the club, which is continually trying to improve the course and promote the sport.

Refresher tuition for juniors organised by Andrew Hall takes place on the course next Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

Town &District

GOLF results

CASTLEMAINE

There was atight finished for overall honors in Castlemaine’s stableford event on Saturday.

Kevin Lourey (17) won the countback and B-grade as well from Jayson Glenister (19) who topped C-grade.

Jason Thompson (8) was the best Agrader with 36 points.

In the mixed nine holes Dee Sansom (33) finished with 16 points, one ahead of Kevin Adams (16).

KYNETON

The first of two rounds of the Mawson’s Senior (over 60s) Championship was played on Saturday.

Ross Martin (13) topped A-grade with 39 points, from Jason McClure (7) on 38.

B-grade went to David McKelvie (35) with 39, from Peter Kewniuk (19) on 38. Ladies –Denise Murphy (19) 39 three clear of Robyn MacRae (25).

NTPs to Murphy, Johah Harris, Bob Bennett, Nick Williamson, Louis Thompson, Teaote Davies and Noel Alldis (also super pin).

Wednesday stableford: David McKelvie (36) with 38 points, from Tien Ho (12) 37. Ladies –Robyn MacRae (25) with 37. NTPs to Terry Gamble and Tim Buhasair.

Tuesday ladies: Joan Gibbs (25) with 39 points, from Moira Greenwood (45) on 38. Deb Kohlman and Denise Murphy NTPs.

LANCEFIELD

Scorching weather and sizzling scores in Lancefield’s stableford on Saturday.

It was acase of Bruce makin’ Hay while the sun shines to finish with awinning 40 points (handicap 26), from Ross Farrar (15) on 39, and Kevin McBridge 38.

There’s been amarked improvement in midweek attendances since the weather improved.

Wednesday ladies: Lyn Murchison (32) 38 points, on ac/b from Carole Mee (37), with Florence Meyer third. Mee was NTP.

Legends: Wayne Mee 95-23-72, from James Whitford 91-17-74.

Twilight: Andrew Hall 20 points.

MOUNT MACEDON

There was abusyearly tee-offon Saturday morning to avoid the scorching afternoon temperatures.

Overall winner of the par event and Cgrade was Peter Watson (24) on acountback from Jack Carter (20) both plus 5.

Peter Sinclair (8) won A-grade with +2, and B-grade went to Mike Hoiles (15) even.

Wednesday gentlemen’s par: John Dawson (13) with +1 won A-grade on acountback from Tony Carter (14) and Isaac Golden (16), while B-grade went to Mike Smitheram (29) on lus 4, from Neville l(26) +2.

'Ladies Get Into Golf at MMGC’ graduates Jenny and Faye were also welcomed.

There has ben significant improvement through this program, with the second session seeing participants chipping, putting and driving.

Next week the ladies will be on the course again, for amodified team Ambrose.

ROMSEY

An early 8.30am hit-off to combat the extreme heat forecast on Saturday paid off and by the end of the stroke round the temperature had reached 34 degrees.

The hot, windy morning produced a win for Dean Kohler 90-19-71 (two NTPs), from Rob Rea 92-20-72, with Luke Lyons third.

The stroke round last Wednesday in hot conditions went to Chris Manktelow 10232-70 from Sherif Abdel Sayed 100-29-71 and Darlene Baker.

Mitch Atlas had the least Putts (29), and Baker and Steve Wilkins were NTPs.

TRENTHAM

Another big Saturday field at Trentham despite the rising temperatures.

Overall and C-grade winner was Adam Moustafa (25) with an excellent 43 stableford points.

Dale Height (6) topped A-grade with 41, and Lincoln Porter (18) was best in B-grade with 39.

The women’s 36-hole Saturday Summer Cup produced aclose finish, with Tatiana Sanders the winner with 152 nett, on acountback from Rhonda Bradley.

Jan Stephenson dominated the second round on Saturday with arunaway 105-42-63, nine clear of runner-up Anthea Leary.

Ahot Saturday at Woodend also produced some scorching stableford golf.

Murray Bradley (11) was the winner with 40 points, from Daniel Bermingham (14) 38.

Paul Podbury, Maurie Rintala, Christo Barnard and Dennis Barker were ashot further back.

WOODEND

‘Ladies Get Into Golf’atMount Macedon Golf Club.

Readytogo: Community Bank senior managerAngela Dickins holding ahole-in-one register,incompanywith Lancefield Golf Club president Glen Holland.

Twocenturies as cricket returns

Saturday. Highlights of the round were Castlemaine United AReserve cricketer Darcy Carroll's 110 and Muckleford AReserve player Dakota Slingo's 105 not out. Best with the ball was Castlemaine United AReserve player Charlie Warren with 4-11. Results were as follows:

AGrade Round 7

Maiden Gully Marist 8-128(cc) (T Bubb 43, RBrown 31;LStabler 3-9, BHenderson 2-23) lost to Barkers Creek 4-129 (M

dNewstead 162 (T Reece 45, IGarsed 42; JR Chaffey 3-21, LA Chaffey 2-27).

Hepburn 6-192(cc) (W Robinson 47, N Robinson 40; JR Watson 2-41, TGeddes 2-47) lost to Muckleford 4-245(cc) (JR Watson 74, DPeckham 51, EG Gingell 31; CPedley2-34). Guildford had the bye.

AReserve Round 7

Barkers Creek 124 (R Carson 37, D Semmens 35*; PJ Leathem 3-21, DEnvall 2-18, CTingay 2-27) lost to Muckleford

Haw 56*; CGardner 3-25, LWalker 2-18). Guildford 50 (CJ Warren 4-11, D Brasher 3-5, ABommareddy 2-14) lost to Castlemaine United 5-265(cc) (D Carroll 110, JNuttall 53; JThomas 3-44).

Harcourt 7-243(cc) (L Mika 85, TCox 43; APurdon 3-41) dTaradale 8-183(cc) (A Young 70*, LMaltby 54; BGibbs 2-17, CCassidy 2-20).

North Castlemaine had bye. T20 Cup bouts tonight

The second round of the Maldon &

Back from thebrink

Bill West

There were two astonishing highlights from Saturday’s round of McIntyre Cup cricket, one being Gisborne skipper Jarryd Vernon’s master class 178 (10 sixes, 18 fours) against Woodend.

The other was Romsey’s remarkable back from the brink rescue mission from ashaky 5/22 against Wallan, with skipper Ben Way making an unbeaten 134 and Adam Frost 92 to save the Redbacks.

The temperature heated up for the round of one-day matches and Vernon’s innings of 178 from just 106 balls at Gardiner Reserve must rank very highly in McIntyre Cup history. Runs were plundered from the Woodend bowlers as the Dragons reached 9/279, with the last five wickets to fall –including Vernon –tumbling for the addition of just six runs. Greg Matthews claimed three wickets for the Woodsmen.

Woodend’s run chase never looked likely to succeed, and it was only Warren Else’s unbeaten 74 that carried the score beyond the 200 mark, leaving Gisborne as the only unbeaten team this season.

Romsey’s early batters failed dismally, edging new ball deliveries as Wallan veteran Steve Bell captured three of the first five wickets to tumble at the Romsey number 2 oval.

Way, so often the Redbacks’ saviour with the bat, found adetermined partner in Frost and they added 159 runs for the sixth wicket

before Frost was bowled for 92 (13 fours, one six), his top score in McIntyre Cup.

In the last few overs, Way blasted the hapless bowlers to include six sixes and nine fours in his innings.

Wallan reached 0/84 but once free scoring Keiran Atkin departed for 56 momentum slowed and Taylor Stevenson and Aaron Paterson collected five wickets between them as Romsey won by 64 runs.

This Saturday, Romsey plays Gisborne in atwo-day fixture, with spectators surely interested if Vernon and Way can continue their superlative form.

Bacchus Marsh routed adisappointing Rupertswood, and finals contenders Sunbury United and Diggers Rest/Bulla had easy wins.

TWO THRILLERS

In Johnstone Shield, there were two absolute thrillers –Riddell and Gisborne playing out atie with 436 runs being scored!

The low-scoring thriller was at Kilmore, where Romsey scraped home by one run by capturingthe lastthree Kilmore wickets for just two runs. The star with the ball was Macedon’s Nathan Aikman. He claimed 6-25 from 7.4 overs to ensure the Catsscored a much-needed win against Aintree.

In JensenShield, Hanging Rock opener Brandon Nicholls hit 10 sixes as he scored 108 at home to aMalmsbury side that failed with the bat.

Aprolific fourth-wicket unbeaten stand between Justin Murphy 91 and Paul de

Podolinsky

MATCH SCORES

McIntyre Cup: Gisborne 9/279 c.c. (J. Vernon 178, W. Mackay 41 –G Matthews 3-78) dWoodend 202 (W. Else 74 n.o. –R Vernon 3/47); Romsey 6/268 c.c. (B. Way 134 n.o., A. Frost 92 –S.Bell3-49) dWallan9/204 (K. Atkin 56, S. Whittingham 42, B. Vance 35 –T.Stevenson 3-44); Sunbury United 129 (C. Wooley 42 n.o.) lost to Sunbury United 4/131 (U. Fernando 41 n.o.); Diggers Rest/Bulla 8/229 (M. Lakshan 53, R. Batepola 45) dEast Sunbury 166 (N. Dent 41); Rupertswood 98 lost to Bacchus Marsh 1/99 (J. Lidgett 41 n.o.,B Payne 40 n.o.)

Johnstone Shield: Macedon 8/201 c.c. (C. Ingleton 37, D. Trotta 31) dAintree 158 (G. Sohal 73 –N.Aikman 6-25); Riddell 8/218 (H. Fisher 76, L. McNair 39 C. Jackson 3-47) tied with Gisborne 218; Romsey 139 (M. Richardson 49 –J.Buttler 3-24) dKilmore 132 (K. Craddock 42 –D Wright 3-24, J. East 3-29); Eynesbury 104 lost to Bacchus Marsh 6/105; Sunbury United 9/244 c.c. (B. Wilson 68 –H.Ingleton 4-48) dKyneton 7/167 (K. Cordy 57, A. Idiens 51 n.o. –D Falzon 4-24).

Jensen Shield: Hanging Rock 5/204 c.c. (B. Nicholls 108,O Watt51, M. Shanahan 49) dMalmsbuy 110 (J. Braszell 34, P. Moulday 30 –M.Ambler 3-16, G. Sandow 3-32); Sunbury Kangaroos 107 (A. Sinclair 3-9) lost to Lancefield 3/110 (R. Millar 40, D. Milligan 39); Rupertswood 7/239 (H. Lyle

Muckleford 3-108 defeated Guildford 8-104(cc), Maiden Gully Marist 7-123(cc) accounted for Harcourt 9-115(cc) and Castlemaine United lost to Barkers Creek.

In round two action this evening from 5.30pm Barkers Creek host Maiden Gully Marist, Harcourt welcome Castlemaine United, Newstead host Muckleford and Guildford take on Hepburn. The winners of each match will progress to the semi finals on January 24

4-29) dBlackwood 68; St Antony 140 lost to Diggers Rest/Bulla 3/144.

Division 1: Woodend 7/206 (A. Grey 52, A. Cavric 44 n.o.) lost to Macedon 3/207 (C. Pinder 57, H. Pinder 50, H. Waddington 47 n.o.); Bacchus Marsh 7/234 c.c. (K. Dua 80 –J.Watson 3-38) dGisborne 99; Kilmore 7/186 (R. McKeown 72) dMeltonSouth 169; Aintree 3/337 (M. Pannu 117 n.o.) dTrentham 115 (D. Giouzelis 45).

Division 2: Bacchus Marsh 5/262 (Peter Lalor 103) dMacedon 210 (S. Grey 46, J. Storie 45); Sunbury 5/213 (D. Singh 90) lost to Malmsbury 3/226; Rupertswood 86 (A. Ryan 4-4) lost to Romsey 2/105 (J. Thorsen 56 n.o.); Diggers Rest/Bulla 7/146 lost to Kyneton 7/152; Sunbury United5/255 c.c. (G. Smith-Hayes 120, G.Yeo 57)d Riddell 9/130.

62carried Malmsbury to victory against Sunbury in division 2

Adam Frost scored 92 forRomseytorescue the McIntyre Cup side against Wallan, sharing ahugesixth-wicket stand with skipper Ben Way.

Worthy winners

Bev Holmes captured her 10th women’s singles title at Tigerland, and is now just one behind legendary champ Doreen Linehan’s record of 11 on the honour board.

It was inevitable that Aaron Young would emerge as a Lancefield champion, such is his unflappable talents in any company, and the 27-year-old finally broke through.

The scores for the favourites in both finals were 25-13.

Holmes eclipsed last year’s first-time champion Ann Shipcott with aconsistent brand of bowls in the women’s final.

“I was pleased with how Iplayed today,” Holmes said.

Aregular division one skipper in Saturday pennant, Holmes has long been rated as one of the district’s top players –being skipper in last season’s division one premiership victory with six shots on the final end is one of her many highlights.

In the men’s semi-finals, reigning champion Gordon Charles out drew Peter Shannon to advance 25-11, while Young had his work cut out to fend off astrong challenge from the talented Aaron Andrews. They both played in metro last season.

Andrews led 15-12 before Young’s greater consistency prevailed for a25-17 margin.

In the final Young took an early lead against Charles, and the score blew out to 22-3 at one stage before the latter played some of his best bowls to collect 10 shots and delay the inevitable.

Young actually began bowls as an 11-year-old at Romsey, influenced by his mother Tracey who was at the club in aleadership role.

Championship victories as a15and 17-year-old at Romsey followed, and he eventually came to Lancefield to play on aturf, rather than synthetic surface.

This was Young’s third championship final in eight seasons at Lancefield, being eclipsed by multiple champion Jeff Holmes in the previous two.

The club wishes Bev Holmes and Aaron Young well at Champions of Champion level.

Joint ladder-leader

Bowls scores

Symons 17 lost to J. Bruce 18.

Romsey 46 lost to Diggers Rest 63 –J.Fryer 15 lost to B. Reidy 19, A. Laing 12 lost to R. Treweek 23, J. Beaumont 19 lost to S. Crimmins 21.

Woodend

Kyneton 57 lost to Kyneton Golf 70 –H.Drinnan 27 d J. Trounce 23, M. Plowman 14 lost to P. Williams 24, M. Bermingham 16 lost to C. Scott 23.

Woodend 68 dBroadford 40 –S.Pickles 30 dJ Goring 8, N. Bickerdyke 21 dR.Campbell 14, G.

Kilmore 58 lost to Gisborne 74 –S.Hawkless 15 lost to K. Jarred 35, C. Hodgson 19 lost to A. Higgins 25, K. Campbell 21 dB.Wylie 14.

Ladder –Diggers Rest 120, Gisborne 120, Romsey 102, Kyneton Golf 100, Macedon 96, Woodend 75, Kilmore 74, Broadford 42, Kyneton 30.

Division one and three teams did not play on Saturday.

Champion named at Woodend

Afterbeing runner-up on two previous occasions, Anne Dornau swept to victory in Woodend Bowling Club’s ladies singles championship last week.

Opponent Rosalie Campbell was seeking back-to-back titles after her nine-shot victory in last season’s final, but this time it was Dornau who began brilliantly.

In ablinding start Dornau, raced to a14-0lead with 4, 4, 2, 3,1 on the first five ends before Campbell got on the

board.

The eventual margin was 25-5 after 15 ends and the Woodend club hopes Anne’s fine form continues in the regional Champion of Champions.

Woodend men’s singles final will be contested by multiple winner Norm Bickerdyke and Stephen Pickles.

In warm conditions, Mike Dornau was determined to overcome torn calf muscles and wearing aboot; to fully test

Bickerdyke in one semi-final. After trailing early, Bickerdyke fought back to level at 13-13, then drew away to win 25-17 after 31 ends. The other semi-final between Pickles and Jarrod Behan was also along and close affair, with the former leading 16-10 before Behan drew with two shots after 26 ends. Pickles lifted to take out the semi-final 25-17, the same score as in the other semi-final. The final is expected to be played this week, weather permitting.

Woodend Bowling Club’smen’ssemi-finalists.

NewWoodend champion Anne Dornau (at right) and runner-up Rosalie Campbell.

Lancefield Bowling Club’s singles champions were decided on Saturday.

Lancefield Bowling Club’s new singles champions Bev Holmes and Aaron Young after their convincing wins on Saturday Kyneton Golf defeated Kyneton by 13 shots in round 10 of division two Highlands pennant bowls on Saturday. Teams began matches earlier than usual to avoid heat in mid-afternoon.

Gisborne,

and Diggers Rest were the other winners, with Macedon having the bye.

Major revamp forMacedonLodge

Bill West

Progressive redevelopment of the famous equine property Macedon Lodge at the foot of Mount Macedon will be good for the area, and the racing industry as well, according to Liam Howley who will soon be ‘returning home’ to where he was an assistant trainer and head trainer for 10 years.

Howley said yesterday he hoped to be relocating Liam Howley Racing in April from the Pipers Creek property that has been his base since branching out as apublictrainer in 2019.

The major announcement about Macedon Lodge’s change of direction under new owner, Melbourne businessman Bruce Dixon, was made earlier this month. There has been considerable publicity since about what is planned.

Howley said there had been positive negotiations with Mr Nixon for some considerable time, after he purchased the property about eight months ago from leviathan Melbourne Cup winning owner Lloyd Williams, who had owned it for nearly 20 years.

While earning areputation for turning out Melbourne Cup winners, Howley said he believed the Macedon Lodge facilities were well suited to training speed horse as well as stayers.

He anticipates having about 50 gallopers based there, and he has also arranged to have 20 boxes at the Kyneton racecourse.

“The vision is to make this (Macedon Lodge) adestination employer owners will be able to come and see their horses on aregular basis, and it’s expected to have plenty of young people involved,” the trainer said.

Industry professionals Mark Player and Matt Tillett have been appointed to run the business operation at Macedon Lodge for Mr Dixon.

At least one large new barn for horses is expected to be added in the near future, and Howley said while he was the main trainer moving there initially, there would be

scope for two or three others with substantial numbers of horses.

“Macedon Lodge could easily accommodate from 150 to 200 horses,” he said.

Acouple of interstate or overseas trainers may also look at using the property as asatellite base.

Howley said top New Zealand trainer

Purchasing young horses for clients has been akeynote of Howley’s activities since establishing abase at Pipers Creek (Kyneton).

The new business model at Macedon

Tylden stable firing

Pocket Change has now earned over $109,000 in stakes.

He is astrong believer on individual attention for individual horses, and said clients would be able to get up close and personal to their horses on aday-to-day basis, in agreat environment.

Bulldogs training

Pre-season football training for Gisborne’s Under 18s and senior men’s side resumed this week at Gardiner Reserve.

It will continue each Monday and Wednesday night in the lead-up to the 2023 Bendigo League season.

Senior women’s training for the Bulldogs returns next Monday, January 23, with asession at Gardiner Reserve from 6pm.

All women’s training sessions following this will take place at Sankey Reserve from 6.15pm each Monday and Thursday.

The Bulldogs are putting out the welcome mat for all existing and new players.

The club hopes sponsors, supporters and the broader Gisborne community will show strong support at training sessions leading up to and during the 2023 season.

'Get Around the Bulldogs in 2023' is the positive promotional catch cry being promoted by the football netball club.

White in charge

Trentham Football Netball Club held its annual meeting just before Christmas, and one of the Saints’ enthusiastic life members was elected as the new president.

Awinning double at Benalla followed by awinner at Yarra Valley last week signalled good things to come for Tylden-based Salanitri Racing and the Hirsch Park training complex in 2023.

John Salanitri has been training for prominent businessman and owner-breeder for more than two decades, and the move to Tylden from Caulfield acouple of years ago is yielding dividends.

At the first Benalla meeting for 2023 Salanitri landed adouble with Midnight Glow and Pocket Change.

Ridden by Dean Holland, Midnight Glow started as an odds-on favourite and won a1608m Maiden with Dean Holland aboard.

Later in the meeting, four-year-old gelding Pocket Change ($3) scored his third race win for Salanitri and Hirsch when Madison Lloyd rode him perfectly in aBM64 race over 1406m.

Midnight Glow stepped up to 2000m at Flemington on Saturday and finished well for third place as one of the outsiders of the field.

FIRST-UP PERFORMANCE

In her second preparation, Harper Rae won impressively at Yarra Valley in aFillies and Mares Maiden over 1200m last week.

It was agood performance to have the filly in good order after 25 weeks off the racing scene.

Alana Kelly positioned the $3.70 chance well from barrier one, and she had 0.75 lengths to spare at the finish.

After the race, racing manager Frank Salanitri predicted Harper Rae would be further improved by the run.

With such alarge string of horses available it would be no surprise to see Salanitri Racing to the fore in further races this year.

Tim White said he was honoured to take on the role, and keen to continue the great work that had been achieved by the club during the time in the Maryborough Castlemaine District Football Netball League.

He said most of the club’s personal and followers knew him as he had been “around the club” since it reformed in 1987.

He served as treasurer for 12 years.

The opening round of the season is on Saturday, April 15, with Trentham at home to Navarre.

Bill West

Pleased with run: Racing managerFrank Salanitri with Harper Rae after winning the Hargreaves BreweryFillies and Mares Maiden at Yarra Valley. Photo: PatScala/Racing Photos

Andrew Forsman was looking at having a small number of gallopers there from time to time.

Lodge is expected to enable Howley to focus more time on the horses under his care.

Looking ahead: Trainer Liam Howleywith his 2022 Kyneton Cup winner Station One.Howleyislooking forwardwith enthusiasm about the move backtoMacedon Lodge. Photo: Brett Holburt/Racing Photos