Celebratingthe charttoppingABC Classic albums, these artists reveal aglimpse intothis“ true dreamteam” performing four hands at thepiano.
Abreath of fresh air!
James Crabb,solo accordion
Sun 7thJune5.15pm
An emotional rollercoaster of incredible music spanningfive centuries performed by oneofthe world’s leadingambassadors of theclassical accordion.
Monteverdi Vespers
Ensemble Gombertand Accademia Arcadia, directedbyJohnO’Donnell With soloists Christopher Roache & Christopher Watson
Sat 6th June7.30pm &Sun 7thJune3.30pm
Monteverdi’s1610 settingofVespers is amongthe greatest worksofthe EarlyBaroque.A400th anniversary performance wasgiven at our Festival in 2010, anditnow returnsbypopular demand
Bach:A Musical Offering
Accademia Arcadia
Sun 7thJune1.00pm
Musical Offering wasthe lastingoutcome of avisit by Bach to thecourt of Frederick II of Prussia, subsequently knownas Frederick theGreat.During thevisit thekinggave Bach atheme andasked him to improvise upon it
To contact theBox Officebeforethe Festival weekendplease email contact@woodendwinterartsfestival.org.au with
PianoMasterclass
Sat 6th June12.00pm
Exclusiveopportunityfor youngpianists (AMEB Grade8+) to get feedback on theirperformances from twoofAustralia’s most acclaimed musicians.
High Street,WOODEND E: ed.irons53@gmail.com
03 5407 9181 M: 0448 661373
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Call to vote no to FOGO
Jade Jungwirth
Backyardcomposting group YesInMy Backyard(YIMBY) submitted apetition with 1102 signaturestoMountAlexander Shire Council on Friday, asking councillorstovote no to rollingout Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO)bins in the shire.
Thebins arepart of the state government'sfour-bin initiative, introducing two newbins in all 79 councils –the FOGO bin and aglass recycling bin. More than 30 councils have formed acoalition in opposition to the move
YIMBY'spetition to thecouncil requests moretimetogather data regarding demand forthe serviceinthe shireand to explore other initiatives designed specifically forthe shire.
At the centre of the debate is notwhether organics shouldbediverted from landfill –all sides agree theyshould –but whether a statewide, standardised FOGO system is the rightsolution forMountAlexander Shire.
YIMBYbelievesMountAlexander is fundamentally differentbecause of the number of residents already composting at home, and thatYIMBYitself is already operating as a decentralised composting network –one that has the capacity to expand.
They argue thatoncehouseholds aregiven agreen bin, people will stop home composting, neighbourhood systems will disappear, and composting will become industrialised and disconnected from the community.
OneofYIMBY'screators, Lucy Young, told the Express thatfor them, composting was notjust wastemanagement–itwas asocial and ecological model thattheyfearcould disappear if FOGO becomesdominant.
Ms Young also said thatlarge-scale FOGO processing contamination wasdifficult to control.
“Ifyou can’tcontrol the inputs…it’s hardtocontrol the outputs,"she said.
“The product coming out of FOGO bins is notsomething Iwould want to put in my garden.”
Thesystemitselfalso seems to be operating slowly.The regulatory framework is still in draftform and has notbeen signed offon, yetcouncils have been instructed to preparefor mandatory rollout.
“They’re being told they have to do something, but the documentation tellingthem whatto do… hasn’t been signed off,"Ms Young said.
Shealso notesthatSustainability Victoria, which had been responsible forcomplianceenforcement, wasnow being abolished, and responsibilities were being movedelsewhere.
Amajor pointoffrustration forYIMBY membersisthat, despite being able to ask the state governmentfor an exemption, the council has notdone so.
The Express spoketoBendigoWest MP MareeEdwards, who attributes the slow process to thechangeinthe Environment Minister last month.
"Minister EnverErdogan is nowthe minister,and we have communicatedwithhim about whatthe MountAlexander Shireis thinking in terms of howtosupport the community with organic waste, but ultimately it's up to theminister," she said.
"I'm hoping thatwewill have some results or some direction from theminister pretty soon."
The Express queried the government's decision to absolveSustainability Victoria, the body responsible forthe four-bin rollout.
Ms Edwardssaid the move wasnot about losing services, but cutting back on executive roles, and areduction in cost to thegovernment.
"All of those services have been brought back into the department, and theywill continue to address all of those matters, including recycling,"she said
Ms Edwardssaid she had spoken to both the previous minister and nowtoMinister Erdogan about the uniqueness of LGAs, including MountAlexanderShireand the potential to do things differently
"I'm abig fanofthe YIMBYmodel and, in fact, Ihavesuggested manytimes expanding it to some of our smaller towns across the shireaswell,"she said
"We'll just have to wait and see what comes backfromthe minister."
Call for changes
Hepburn ShireCouncil has joined the Let’sBeClear on Glasscampaign, calling on the Victorian Government to extend the deadline forthe rollout of kerbside glass collection services.
Thecouncil recently became amember of the GlassAdvocacy Group,anallianceofVictorian councils advocating forpractical, cost-effectivealternatives to theproposed mandatory glass-only kerbside bin system, part of the state government’skerbside wastereforms.
Thegroup is urging the Victorian Governmenttopause therollout and work collaboratively with councils to identify smarter,moreefficient solutions.
"For manyyears, residents have successfully recycled household glass items, such as jarsand wine and spirits bottles, through yellow-lidded kerbside bins and drop-off points at transfer stations,"Hepburn mayor Tony Clark said.
"Financial modelling shows that introducing aseparatekerbside glass servicewould increase costs forboth council and residents, while operational and regulatory uncertainties add further risk."
As part of the campaign, councils arecalling on the Victorian Governmenttoexplorealternative approaches. These include expanding the container deposit scheme to include wine and spirits bottles, bringing Victoria into line with similar programsinother states
YIMBYmembers Joel Meadows, Lucy Young and Mikaela Beckley submit apetition asking councillors to vote no to FOGO last Friday.
Dr Bronwyn
Dr Ashvin
Loshna
Tanya Dr Hao
Rhian
An artist,arockstar and the Archibald
From page1
Tobias, one of Ned'slongtime teachersand mentors, described Timasbeing very generous with the project.
"He'sareally down-to-earth guy,who started getting naked nearly instantly," he laughs.
Timtold the Express thathis shirtlessness wasnot meant as a sign of vanity or showofbeautyor power, but as away to showwho he was.
"I am an open book, forbetter and certainly forworse,"hesaid.
AhighlightofNed'spainting is Tim's unique tattoos, with two hands entwined prominently displayedonhis chest.
"Itisa reminder to me to stop taking drugs, because Iwould be looking at my chest alot," he said.
"Itdidn't work fora while, but it works these days."
Other features of the painting area colourfulbackground of stars, Ruby,the name of Tim'sdaughter, and the word Zombie,the name of aCranberries song that, forNed, resembles the style of Tim'swork.
"I'venever really liked thatsong before but I'm going to startliking it now,"Tim said.
Being the first time he had seen the painting in person, the rock star'spleasureinNed'sdepiction of himwas writtenacross his featuresashetook in the piece.
"It'sa very big complimenttobe asked to be painted, and it is very beautifuland very dynamic,"Tim said
"I'm an extremely un-dynamic person, and all of the excitement of it is an anathematomyactual character,and Ilikethat. It's characterful."
At 56, the music star,who has performed countless gigs in countless countries, performed as the frontman of YouAmI,the Hard Ons, and the Bamboos, has found his foreverhome in central Victoria, bookending his start to lifeinanother goldfield in Western Australia.
"Living in this beautiful part of the world and still creating art and being letinthe door by other artforms, whether it be theatre groups– I'm working with Castlemaine Theatrelater in the year –and meeting artists likeNed and Tobias, is aprivilege,"hesaid
Andwhat'snextfor Ned? Well, he has movedontohis next artwork, apolitical piece featuring the VillagePeople and Donald Trump and he is hoping to have hisnext solo exhibition at the FringeFestival. He's notsureifhewill enter the Archibald Prizeagain, but if he does, he wouldn't mind painting TayTay or Sabrina Carpenter. And it's looking pretty likely thathis portrait of Timwill wind up on the coverofanalbum sometime in the near future.
"Itwill happen forNed,"Tim said "Heistoo important. He is too good, and tooexciting, toofun. His paintings arereally fun, and it will happen,"Tim said
Council news
Council chasing town speedcuts
Hepburn ShireCouncil intends to seek approvalfor reduced speed limits across Trentham
These include an extension of the existing 40 km/h zone through the centre of the town, and an extension of the existing 50 km/h zone to betterreflect recent development.
Further discussion aboutspeed limits near the Trentham Transfer Station have been flagged.
Council has just issued adetailed summation of whatdirection it is heading on road improvements for Trentham
Road safety wasdescribed as "an importantissue across our shire"
Council is continuing to progress arangeofroad safety and transport improvements across Trentham
Advocacy and planning works areunder way, and funding has been secured for upgrades to some local roads.
Following strong representation by council and the community,the DepartmentofTransport and Planning has indicatedinprinciplesupportfor a speed limit reduction in theinterests of road safety in the town.
Interested parties who would also liketoadvocate can do so directly with StateMPMary-Anne Thomas.
PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS
Therehas been astrongpushbythe community forpedestrian crossings to be installed on High Street
As High Street (between BridgeStreetand Cosmos Road)ismanaged by DTP, anydecision around funding of crossings in this section rests withthem.
Acouncil spokesperson said in summary,the
Sorry DayisonTuesday26May,10am–12pm at the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens, featuring aWelcome to Country and Smoking Ceremonyled by Dja Dja WurrungElder Uncle Rick Nelson, with reflections from the Mayorand local school leaders.
TheReconciliation Week Launch is on Wednesday27May, 10am–12pm at the Market Building, with the Nalderun Awards, abook launch and FirstNations-made artworks.
On Sunday31May,11am–2pm, head to theGuildfordBig Tree forthe Reconciliation Seatunveiling, with dancing, music, stalls and afreeBBQ
proposed speed limit changes were an important first step and will form part of the longer-term discussion regarding pedestrian crossings.
Thereisexpected to besignificantconsultation withTrentham businesses and community,togive consideration to suitable locations, the impactsof potential parking loss in the town centre,and constraints createdbyexisting driveways.
In addition, council has also secured funding under the Victorian Government'sSafer Local Roads and Streetsfor pedestrian connections and crossings at Bath Street and Albert Street,along withfive other road safety projects across the shire. Council is committed to advocating forthese improvements and will continuetowork directly withDTP
Separately,council will consider partial or full closureofBathStreetinthe near future, oncemasterplanning work on TrentCreek is completed.
ThecentreofTrentham —council and community keen to see safety improvedvia speed limits.
Localdesignersedged out
Angela Crawford
Twolocal skatepark designershavequestioned Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil’sdecision to awardthe redevelopmentcontract forKynetonSkatepark to alarge Melbourne-based firm
Kynetondesigner Darren WhiteofBaseplate and Woodend designer Wade Trevean of EastbyWest –the team behind the successful Lancefield and Romsey skateparks –said theywerebitterly disappointedtheir quote wasoverlooked in favour of non-local company Convic.
"Weunderstand local companies arenot guaranteed council work simply because theyare local. However, we believe thereare unanswered questions about how council calculatedthe tender pricing scores, which ultimately decided thewinning bid,"Darren said.
Afterthe contract wasawarded, council provided feedback showing Convic’s quote wasonly slightly cheaper than the Baseplate/EastbyWest submission, and the overall scores between the twobids were very close.
Darren and Wade said theycould notreconcile how the pricescore wascalculated–and this scoredetermined theoutcome of the project award.Theysaid council had refusedtoexplain its method.
“Ifcouncil shows howthe pricescore wascalculated, thereisnothing to question –itwould prove theymade thecorrect decision, end of story," Darren said.
"However, their refusal to provide transparency on this does nothing to alleviate ourconcerns, it only amplifies them.”
LOCALBUSINESSES FAVOURED?
Under council’sprocurementpolicy,local businesses maybefavoured wherepossible if their tender is no morethan 10 per cent higher than the preferred submission, the differencedoes notexceed $10,000, and the quality of the proposal is assessed as equal or better
Yetafter the submission date closed, council decided
the Baseplate/EastbyWest proposal exceeded the project scope (which included additional services at no cost). Council thenallowedConvic to resubmit its quotesothe scope could be aligned.
Darren and Wade said theywerenot told theadvertised scope had changed or given the sameopportunity to revise their submission.
Council’sdirector of assets and operations, Dom Testoni, said council wassatisfied the tender process complied with council’sprocurementpolicy and the principles of probity,fairness and value formoney.
“Broadly,council’sprocurementpolicydoesinclude asection on local business preference, which outlines council’swillingness to consider paying morefor goods, services and works from alocal business rather than a non-local business, subjecttocertain criteria being met,” he said.
“Tender details arenot appropriate forcouncil to provide or commenton, due to commercial in confidence.”
Darren andWade said theysimply wanted council to reviewits decision-making process, be transparentwith its price scoremethodology,acknowledgeany mistakes and makeamends if required.
“Ifcouncil has made mistakes at the start of theprocess and gets to keep pushing ahead while questions remain unanswered, to then say, ‘Ohwell, nothing we can do now, we’retoo faralong the process’,itisa depressing reality thatwelivein,”Darrensaid.
“Here’shoping amoresupportiveand open approach is taken when it comes to theconstruction of theskatepark, along with otherfuturecommunity projects,”Wade added.
Thetotal project cost is estimatedatabout $1.5 million, with $750,000 in federal funding committed. A staged approach will be undertaken while council seeks further funding to complete the project.
Feedback is nowopen on the KynetonSkatepark design and closes SundayMay 24.
An ex tr a$ 37 million to help bush fire-a ffect ed Vict orians ge tb ac ko nt heir fe et wa sa nn ounc ed by the sta te and fe der al gove rnmen ts last Fr ida y.
Ne arly $33 million will prov ide moret han 100 te mpor ary modu lar homes fo rp eople wit hout adequa te insur anc ew hose home wa ss ignifican tly damag ed or destroy ed.
Af urther $4 million will fund morel egal servic es fo r fa milies, small bu sinesses and primary produc er s. Su pport will be deliv ered by Di sast er Le gal He lp Vict oria and ot her ex isting legal ce nt re s.
Th eRur al Fi nancial Co unselling Se rvic ew ill also re ce iv ea n$ 880,000 boost to emp loym oref inancial and
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bush fire-a ffect ed co mm un ities in Vict oria and wo uld makes uret he yw ereb ei ng supp ort ed throughout the ex te nt of the re co ve ry journe y.
“T his additional support ackno wledg es disast er re co very is co mp le x, and we mu st en su re all av ai lable measures ha ve been undert aken,"M sMcB ain said.
Th is funding brings th et ot al re co ve ry as sistanc e prov ided fo rt he Ja nuary 2026 bush fires to moret ha n $420 million inclu ding co st-sharing un de rt he Di sast er Re co ve ry Fu nding Ar ra ng emen ts.
rm orei nforma tion on th eD RFAp ackag es and supp orts prov ided, visit vic.g ov.a u/disast er-rec overyfunding-arr ang emen ts.
Darren Whiteand Wade Trevean arepictured at theKynetonSkatepark.
More thanjust afreeshower
Lisa Dennis
Acollaborativeeffort between MountAlexanderShireCouncil, Dhelkaya Health, The Salvation Army Castlemaine and other agencies has enabled theSalvos to host amobile showertruck in Castlemaine.
Thecustom-built mobile showertrailersbring dignity directly to communities, but offermorethan just afreeshower— they provide afullwrap-around serviceofcare, connection and essential support
Theshowertruck is visiting the Salvation Army Hall in Kennedy Street Castlemaine each Fridaymorning between 9am and 11am to coincide with theSalvos Doorways program.
TheSalvos arealso offering ahot breakfast to thoseattending the service.
Theprovision of showers in town has been aconcern in the community, heightened by the closureofthe town's privateindoor pool in July 2025, which had previously offeredthe free service.
Salvation Army Castlemaine corps leader Beth Waldron Ansticesaidthe weekly servicewas attended by the Dhelkaya community health nurseand housing team and volunteerswho could connect individuals with other services theymightneed.
"It'sa greatexample of the community working together to support those in need," Beth said.
Thetruckservicetrial has been funded until June 30. TheSalvos arekeen forfeedback from across the community about theinitiativeand arealso looking at collaborating with other organisations to host pop-ups at Maldon or other local communities.
If the newserviceiswell supported, the Salvos arehopeful it cancontinue beyond the initial trial period.
RedShield Appeal under way
TheSalvos have also kick-started theannual Salvation Army National RedShield Appeal forMay
Newdatareleased by TheSalvation Army from asurvey of clients has revealed that need is growing in lightofthe cost-of-living crisis.
Thelatestresearch indicating almost nine in 10 parents go without food so kids can eat, morethan one thirdcan’t afford doctorsfor kids, and one in fivesay their children have gone without food fora whole day. TheCastlemaine Corps and Thrift Shop arerunning anumber of local fundraising events andseeking support from the community.
This commenced with amarket dayinApril, aperformancebythe Just Brassstudents on Mondayafternoon, and will include abarbecue outside Maxi IGAonMay 30 and a visit by Girton Grammar students to rattle tins on May31.
Hitting the track
To highlightthe local RedShield Appeal fundraising efforts, newly appointedcentral Vic team leader Major Robert Evans, whoprovides support to the Castlemaine, Bendigo, Eaglehawk and Maryborough teams, has also been undertaking afour-day200-kilometre trek from BendigotoBallarat
Evans commenced his trek following theRed Shield Appeal launch in Bendigoon Thursday. He wasjoined on the first 60 kilometre legbySalvos MoneyCaremanager for BendigoTroyWest.
"Itwas great have Troy join me forthe firststint, we came across alot of friendly faces on the track!"
Evans stopped over in Castlemaine on Fridaytotouch base with the local Corps and help raise awareness about theshowerservicebeforesetting offonthe second leg of his four-dayjourney.
"I do alot of walking. Iaverage around 10 kilometresa day. Butthis is really going to hurt.And thatiswhatIamtrying to getacross, people arereally hurting. They arefacing tough choices and challenges from alot of competing directions. Trying to decide what bills to payand what theycan livewithout,"hesaid.
Evans is completing the walk to raise funds forthe RedShield Appeal and hopes to raise $20,000. Allfunds will be spentsupporting those in the centralVictorian community
To supportRobert, donate at digitaldoorknock.salvationarmy.org.au/robert-evans
To supportour TheSalvation Army Castlemaine, visit digitaldoorknock.salvationarmy. org.au/castlemaine-salvos
Or youcan donatetothe Australia-wide appeal at www.salvationarmy.org.au/redshield-appeal
Gisborne man chargedoverdrugs and firearms
A38-year-old Gisborne man has been chargedwith drug and firearms offences following an ongoing investigation into an alleged crime syndicate
Policehavechargedtwo men and seized 11 firearms and alarge quantity of drugs when search warrants were executed in Lara, Gisborne and Thomastownareas last week.
A54-year-old Lara man, a38-year-old Gisborne man, a19-year-old Thomastown man and a32-year-old Laraman were arrested.
Police had assistanceform the Special Operations Group,Bomb Response Unit, Clandestine Laboratory Squad, the Western Region Crime Squad, Viper Taskforce and Mill Park Divisional Response Unit, detectives from the North West MetroRegional Crime Squad.
Police seized 11 firearms, including homemade firearms, imitation firearms and gelblasters, firearm parts and ammunition, and drugs of dependence.
The38-year-old manhas sincebeen chargedwith possess cocaine, possess drug of dependence, possess prohibited weapon, and possess ageneral category handgun. He has been bailed to appear at court at alater date.The 54-year-old manhas sincebeen chargedwith prohibited person possess afirearm, possess traffickable number of firearms,possess cocaine, possess cannabis, and fail to comply with direction to assist with access to data under warrant. He was to appearbeforeGeelong Magistrates Court last week.
The19-year-old manand the32-year-old man areexpectedtobechargedonsummons with firearm-relatedoffences.
Maldon man foundguilty
Aman from Maldon has been found guilty in the BendigoMagistrates Court forbreaking public safety laws at LakeBoort on the closing weekend of the 2024 duckhunting season.
Theman wasordered to pay$500 to the court fundand wasplaced on agood behaviour bond until March92027 foroffences including interfering with aperson hunting and taking game. Game Manangement Authority director of complianceand intelligence, ZacPowell said those who opposed duck hunting had the righttoprotest but must do so safely and legally
"Public safety laws areinplacetoprotect all membersofthe community including
hunters,authorised officers and protestors themselves,"hesaid.
"Thereare significant penalties forpeople unlawfully entering, or remaining on a specified hunting area, approaching hunters within 10 metres or interfering with, hindering, harassing or obstructing hunters."
Huntersand thepublic areurged to report illegal hunting and illegal protester activity to theGMA through itswebsite: gma. vic.gov.au or the Customer Contact Centre on 136 186, or by contacting Victoria Police
TheGMA assesses all reportsofillegal behaviour and works closely with its partner agencies to conductenforcement and complianceoperations across Victoria.
TheSalvation Army centralVic team leader and fundraising walker Major RobEvans, Castlemaine Salvos corps leaderBethWaldronAnsticeand Dhelkaya Health housing team seniorclinician CourtneyStephens arepictured with the OneVoice Mobile ShowerTruck on Friday
Heritage questioned in cross tree clearing
Adisputehas emergedbetween the Victorian National Parks Association and Parks Victoria overwoodland clearing works at MountMacedon, withdiffering interpretations of the heritagebasis forthe project.
Thecontroversycentres on vulnerable snowgum removalnear the MountMacedon Memorial Cross, which Parks Victoria says wasundertaken to restoreviews associated withthe site’scultural and landscape significance.
However, HeritageVictoria has confirmed in awrittenresponse to the VNPA thatthe Victorian HeritageRegister listing forthe Memorial Cross does notspecifically referenceorprotect viewlines or viewscapes to or from thecross.
In its response, HeritageVictoria statedthatthe registration “does notprotect or referenceviewlines or viewscapes to or from theCross as such”and thatithad “noknowledgeofa heritagenoteorinstrument overthe Memorial Cross Reservewhich outlines therequirementthat views can be enjoyedtowards Melbourne from thebase of the Cross.”
TheVNPAargues this contradicts statements made by Parks Victoria during the approvalprocess, including representations to Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil and the Planning Minister.The organisation wrotetoParks Victoria chiefexecutiveMatthewJackson on April 28, requesting thatpublic materials referring to heritageprotections forthe views be corrected or removed.
TheNational Trust of Australia (Victoria)has also published an analysis questioning the use of heritageconsiderations to support the vegetation removal.
Parks Victoria maintains the works were consistentwith broader planning and landscape objectives. Aspokesperson said the StatementofSignificancefor the Memorial
Cross highlightedthe landmark’svisibility from considerable distances as part of its significance.
“The Macedon Ranges StatementofPlanning Policy reinforces the importanceofviews from thecross,”the spokesperson said. “The policy also requires views andvantage points to be maintained and enhanced. Without these works, the cross’s visibility and identified views would likely diminish.”
Parks Victoria said the viewrestoration works had nowbeen completed and thatefforts were made to minimise vegetation removal, withlocally indigenous trees and plants retained wherever possible. Theagency also said removedvegetation had been reused within thepark formulch, reseeding and wildlifehabitat.
WHATTHE
STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE SAYS
TheCameron Memorial Cross is importantfor spiritual, symbolic, cultural and social reasonsasamemorial forthose who lost their lives in the FirstWorld War, and became formanya symbol of courageand survival afterthe 1983 Ash Wednesdaybushfires. Thecustomorfunction of commemorating the wardead is observed at adawnservice held at thebase of the cross annually.The size, simplicity of the design of the Cameron Memorial Cross,along with its siting on MountMacedon, is arareexample of amemorial commemorating those who died in the FirstWorld War. It is able to demonstrate an association with important events in Victoria’s history,the FirstWorld War, and it demonstrates theuse of particular material in theformofWunderlich tiles which, because of their reflectivenature, areable to enhancethe simplicity and symbolism of the cross,and enable it to be viewedfrom considerable distances.
Lancefieldhungryfor more
AmyHume
SliceofPerfection's authentic Italian pizza has returned to Lancefieldina series of pop-upFridaynights thathave left residents hungry formore.
Owner and Neapolitan trained pizza chefStefanBarbagallo wantstorespond to thatdemand and is nowseeking an opportunity to rebuild his dream.
Personal circumstances forced the unexpected closure of Stefan's pizzeriaonHigh Street in 2023. It's launchhad followedthe success of hiscatering business thatwenton to supply lockdown dinnersthroughout the pandemic. It wasoverwhelming communitysupport thatsaw the pizzeria open in 2021 with dining options and afull menu
However, Stefan described his journeyas"astorm of professional highs and personal lows". Thepandemic created economic challenges and sotoo did personal circumstance.
"Despitealoyal customer base, the post-pandemic landscape of staff shortages and skyrocketing overheads made maintaining alargerbrick-and-mortar venue increasingly difficult,"hesaid.
Stefanhad also experienced amajor financial setback when he discovered in 2022 thathis family home had become water damaged from poorworkmanship done to the house at some time beforetheirownership.
"Wehad aleak coming through from the showertiled
wall,through the internal wallsand under all the floors,"he said.
"Three out of four bedrooms had been internally moisturedamaged in theplasterand underneath the floorboards. This wasall invisible to the naked eyeinviewing thehome."
He and his wifemadethe decision to close the pizzeria forone month to repair what theycould to live inside their home safely.
"As2023 went on, we tried to getby, but lost our biggest month of sales,"hesaid.
"Bythe timemid 2023 came around, we had no choice but to list ourpizzeria forsale to recoup the costsofwhat we spentonfixing our home withborrowed moneyfrom family whohelped us in atime of need."
Sincethen, Stefan hasalso been diagnosedwith essential tremor,aneurological disorder causing involuntary,rhythmic shaking, in the hands and arms during movement
He has been taking on other work while getting back into catering buthewants to getback to whathelovesand rebuild whathelost.
"I haven’tgiven up on the dream. Iamcurrently operating atemporary pop-up at the LancefieldNeighbourhood House while actively searching fora permanentshop again in the Macedon Ranges,"hesaid.
"Despitesetbacks with governmentgrant applications to getour foot in the door again, my goal remainsthe same: to
Pizza chefStefanBarbagallo wantstoreopen apizzeria in the Macedon Ranges.
bring world-class pizza back to the communitythatsupported usfromthe beginning."
Stefanisnow seeking his ownpremise or ashared premise arrangementtoexpand in thecommunity
Wombattimber forauction
Timber and firewoodbusinesses will have the opportunitytobuy an estimated7000 tonnes of storm debris removedfromthe Wombat StateForest.
Thedebris wasremovedtoprovide firefighterswith access and reducebushfire risk to surrounding communities and the environment. Severe storms in 2021 impacted around 45,000 hectares across the Wombat State Forest –with about1600 hectares severely damaged. Acting Deputy ChiefFire OfficerVincentWhite said Forest FireManagementVictoriaprioritised managing storm debris and hazardous trees in areas of the forest wheretheyincreased bushfireriskand blocked safe access forfirefighters.
"A hugenumber of trees fell in the 2021 storms. Many have been left in the forest to provide habitatand other environmental benefits. We have only removedthemwhere necessary to reducebushfireand other safety risks,"hesaid.
"InJanuary 2025, we respondedtoafire in the forest near Barksteadwhereittook firstresponse crewsthree times longer than usual to create acontrol line around the fire as they needed to cutapaththrough storm debris. Now, we areinamuch better position to respondtofires quickly,and better protectcommunities, critical assets and the environment."
During recovery and bushfirerisk reduction works, the Department of Energy, Environmentand Climate Action carried out biodiversity surveys, protected sensitive
areas, restored tracks and assets, managed weeds,replanted nativespecies, and improved habitatthrough newtreehollows andropebridges.Nearly10,000 tonnes of by-products from the Wombat StateForest were made available to communities as free firewoodthrough the domestic firewood collection program.Using the principles in Victoria's StateForestBy-Products Framework, by-productfromstorm debris works wasmovedtofreefirewoodcollectionsites in the nearbyMurrayGoldfields region wheresupplyhas been limited. Debris has also been given asecond lifeas plantstakes and wood wool foranimal bedding, with root balls being used forfish habitat along streams.
Following advertising and engagement with interested buyers, DEECA will auction about 7000 tonnes of by-products stored near Daylesford on May26.
"While the purpose of these forest and fire managementworks is safety and forest health, theby-productstheygeneratecan be useful and have value, and we want to ensurethatthey’re used by the Victorian community,"MrWhite said.
"Weknowhow importantforestsand trees aretoVictorians –that’swhy it’sgreat to have aformalframework forhow we use materials generated from forest andfire managementworksinstate forests."
Fordetails about taking part in theauction, email: forest.by-products@deeca.vic. gov.au
Libraries host
‘Liveand Local’
The29th SydneyWritersFestival is under wayand theCastlemaine and Woodend Libraries arehosting anumber of Live and Local events
Across three big days,fromthis Thursday May21toSaturdayMay 23, acurated selection of SWFsessions will be live-streamed at the local libraries, giving regional audiences front-row access to one of Australia’s most celebrated literary events –freeofcharge Goldfields Libraries’programs and events coordinatorTammy Higgssaid Live andLocal wasabout opening the doorstobig ideas.
“It’sa wonderfulopportunity forour communities to come together at their local library and hear from extraordinary writers, journalists and thinkerswho areshaping conversations hereand around theworld.”
This year’sprogram features astellar lineup of international heavyweights and Australian favourites, exploring themes from democracy and history to food,fiction and films.
International highlights include festival favouriteA.C.Grayling, Booker Prizewinner David Szalay, acclaimed novelist SusanChoi, bestselling author Mick Herron, Canadian writer Yann Martel, and renowned thinker AmitavGhosh, appearing across arange of in-conversation and panel sessions with leading journalists, academicsand Australian writers.
Homegrowntalentshines throughout the program, with food writer Stephanie Alexander celebrating 30 yearsof TheCook’s Companion alongside Adam Liaw, andliterary sensation TrentDalton discussing his latest book, Gravity LetMeGo,withbroadcaster Cassie McCullagh.
Allsessions arefree, but bookings areessential. Please note thatthe libraries will not screen every session.
Forfull details and to book your spot, visit ncgrl.vic.gov.au/swf
Fundraiser at picturesquePlaistow
TheSkilbeck family willagain be hosting amorning teainthe garden at Plaistow Homestead at JoycesCreek to raise funds forCancer Council this Saturday May23.
This year marks the 29th year the local family has supported the annual Biggest Morning Teafundraiser
Originally it began as an intimate event in theloungeroom of the heritage-listed 1860s homestead, but in theyearssinceit has grownintoamuchlargercommunity celebration in the gardens.
This year will see four generations of the Skilbeck family working across the morning, Lilian and Peterbeing general dogs bodies, son Marcus lookingafter the fires and keeping the waterhot,granddaughters Madison and Poppie playing with flourand water, and seven-month-old greatgranddaughter Isabelle keeping an eyeonthem all!
Lilian and Petersaid theywould once again be supported by friends and relatives pouring freshbrewedtea and coffee, and delivering scones both jam and creamed andsavoury to theguests.
"Every family can talk aboutmembers or friends who have experiencedone or more of the various forms of cancer.Wecan all relate to people who have died from cancer, but as time goes on we can relate stories of those who have recovered,"Lilian said.
"The newslettersfromCancer Council regularly report on the cancer journeys of survivorswith manyofthe stories being positivestories detailing the results of research and newtreatments funded by the generous donations of gatherings likethis.
"The only funding Cancer Council receive is from donations and events.Theyuse the donatedfunds to support research into the hows,whysand treatmentofcancers, to fund nurse on call,financial supplements, the wig bank and respiteholidays.Every cent raised at Plaistowisgiven to Cancer Council to support this work,"Petersaid.
RSV VACCINE UPDATE
This year will be alittle special as the Skilbeck family willbeusing the large Andrewsdouble oven stove again following her (yes it is afemale)total restoration by The1910 Ironworks in NewSouth Wales. Check out their Facebook pagefor asneak peek at the restoration.
Thestove wasmade in Geelong around the mid-1880s and originally used in ahotelkitchen in Beaufort. Thestove hasbeen in use at Plaistowsince1984.
Thefundraiser willbecomplemented by astall of plants from the lovely Beth Higgins, SueOldfield’snatural fibre knitting creations and entertainmentbyPlatform
Souls band from Maldon. Therewill once again be amega raffle and also araffle fora trailer of dry Strathlea firewood. Theevent runs from 10am to 12.30pm. Plaistow Homesteadislocated at 324 Rodborough Road,Joyces Creek. Follow the flags from thePyrenees HighwayRodborough Road corner Entry by donation at the garden gate Parking is available on the driveorinthe frontpaddock. Ask the attendants to assist with accessible parking.
Volunteersare most welcome contact 0419 884 710 or email plaistow@bigpond. comifyou'dliketoassist.
Homes ForAll –rally and concert
Agroup of concerned citizens of Mount Alexander Shireare holding arally and concert to address the issue of homelessness and affordable housing this SaturdayMay 23.
The Homes ForAll –Rally and Concert will include information stalls, speakersand live music and will be held at St Mary’sHall in Hargraves Street Castlemaine.
Oneofthe organisersofthe event, Pete Dawson, says in whatheconsidersthe richest country on Earth thereshouldbenohomelessness, families shouldbeable to obtain a mortgageata reasonable interest rate or an affordable rental.
"With our population ageing, moreand more people will need affordable accommodation. Apart from thefinancial pressures, the stress of finding suitable accommodation is aserious factor in the detrimentofmentalhealthinour communities,"Pete says Determined to makea difference, Pete and friends have organised the rallyand concert.
"The rally, supported by St Mary’sCatholic Church, is designed forthose with aneed for information about help thatisavailable and also an attempttoget governmenttolisten," he says
Experienced financebrokerand buyersagent, Dr Jamel Kaur Singh, will be amongthe speakers at Saturday’sHomes ForAll event.
Speakershavebeeninvited from the DepartmentofFamilies, Fairness and Housing, DJAARA Corporation, housing groupsand more.
Among the speakerswill be highly experiencedfinancebrokerand buyersagent,Dr Jamel Kaur Singh.
Dr Singh has close to 30 yearsinthe Australian property and financeindustry.Through herwork as founding director of FinPlus and Focus Buyers,she has helped hundreds of individuals, families and investorsnavigate the oftencomplexjourneyofsecuring property
Passionate about making property ownership moreaccessible, Dr Singh is known forher practical, no-nonsense approach and her ability to find pathways whereotherssee barriers. Sheworks closely with clients from allwalks of life– including those on government support, single parents and peopleexploring alternativepathwaysintothe market –helping them understand whatispossible and howtoget there.
At the Homes ForAll event, Dr Singh will sharereal-world insights, currentschemes and practical strategies to help the community takemeaningful steps toward securing ahome.
Musicians to perform on the daywill include Andy Dunne, Ange Lawson, Georgia Darcy, LesThomas, LozLawrey, PeterBodin, Trudy Fatnowna Edgeley, Silverfish and ScottSanders.
The Homes ForAll rally will begin at noon in St Mary’sHall cnr Hargravesand Lyttleton Streets, Castlemaine, with theconcert following the speakersatabout 3pm.
Peterand Lilian Skilbeck and their family willonceagain be opening the gatesoftheir heritage listed homestead Plaistow to support the Cancer Council’sBiggest Morning Tea.
Frances No on an
Ri ddells Creek Nu rs ery has transform ed th e backyardofa deservin gl ocal co up le th ro ugh its co mmun ity- driven Ga rd en An ge ls Proj ect.
Th ei nitiative, create dbyn ursery ow ner Ge ordi eTaylor,awa rd ed acomplete garden ma ke over to lo cal re sidents El eanor andPete rButl an dafter they we re nomi nate dbyt heir daughte rAma nd a in Ju ne last ye ar fo llowing ad if fic ult period fo r the fa mily
Ge ordie saidthe projec twas all aboutg iving backtot he co mm unit y.
“It’ssup er imp or tantt og iveb acka nd it’sabig part of the cultu re of thi sbus iness,”h es aid
“Tob ehonest, th is job wa sb igge rt hanwe tho ug ht .Lucki ly we ha da na mazing co mmun ity –somet imes yo uj us tn ee da hand.”
Th at helping hand cam efro ma cros st he region, wi th th el oc al men’sshed vo lunte ering time to assistw ithplant ing, while seve ra lb us inesses donate dm ater ials inc lu ding steel edging, hardscaping sup plies and soil. Th anks to the co mmun ity effo rt, th ep ro je ct wa scomplete di n Apr il th is ye ar
Th eresult sawEleanor and Pete r’sb ackyard tran sformedf ro mab arep add ock into av ibrant garden retreat. Th edesign blended nati ve and no n-n at ivep lants while th oughtf ull yi ncor po rating th ecoup le’s ex istin ggarden beds.
El eanor and Pete rs aid theywereove rwhe lme dbythe ge nerosit ys hown by everyone invo lved.
“Words can notd es cr ibeh ow ve ry gratef ul an d hum ble dwea re to be th el uc ky re cip ients of this gift,”Eleanor said.
“Wea re al re ady enjoying every minutei nthis beautif ul space. He re Iwas ex pect ing an ew garden bed and instead we we re gifted al ifecha ng ing garden. Th ank yo uf ro mt he bottom of ourh earts .”
Riddells Creek Nursery’s Geordie Taylor and the Riddells CreekMen’s Shed crew with Eleanorand PeterButland in their newgarden.
Deserving couple gets garden makeover
YOUCAN TE ACHIN REGIONAL VICTORIA
The future is calling, and we need your help to educatethe next generation. With secondary teaching scholarships,employment-based degrees,and arange of supports to help get youintothe classroom, there’sneverbeen abetter time to become ateacher in Victoria.
U3A giveslifetoroses
KynetonU3A has begun restoring the HeritageMemorial Rose Garden at KynetonHigh School, helping preserveanimportant pieceoflocal history
Thememorial garden wasoriginally established in 1918 at the school’sformer Piper Street sitetohonour students and teacherswho lost their lives serving in the FirstWorldWar.When the school relocatedtoEpping Street in 1927, the garden wascarefully movedtoits currentpositionatthe frontofthe school.
Today, the garden features 55 memorial plaques bearing the names of those who died in service, with 56 roses plantedalongside them
Late last year,membersofKynetonU3A noticed the historic garden had fallen into disrepair.Inresponse, six volunteersdedicatedtheir time and equipmenttoclearing overgrowth and beginning the restoration process.
Thegroup also received expert guidance from Michael Ryan, keeper of the roses at Flemington Racecourse. Michael and his team visited the sitelast week to teach volunteershow to properly restoreand maintain the roses. Each volunteer wasalso given a
copy of the Flemington rose pruning workshop booklet. Volunteer Carol Douglas said she first metMichael during a function hosted by the KynetonHorticultural Club and reached out forhis expertise.
“I kept persevering until he said yes,”she said. Community support has also playedamajor role in theproject. Sponsors including ThePrelovedPeddler,KynetonRSL and Midland Irrigation have contributed to planned upgrades, including newRising Sunbadgesfor each plaque and anew irrigation system.
“The generosity of the communityhas been amazing,”Carol said. Following winterpruning and restoration work, the volunteers will continue caring forthe garden throughout the year.Planned improvements forearly spring include replacing missing roses, planting twonew pencil pines along the perimeterfence,and adding low-growing rosemary bushes.
“Bythe end of the year the garden should be in greatshape and easier to maintain,”Carol said.
Lisa Ohlmus,presidentofthe school council, thankedthe volunteersand communitysupportersfor their efforts in restoring the memorial garden.
Mo’Juto perform in Ranges
Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil will mark National Reconciliation Week (May 27 to June 3) with aspecial performancebyacclaimed FirstNations artist Mo’Ju, supported by Wild Gloriosa, on SundayMay 31 from 4-6pm
MayorKateKendall said the eventprovided ameaningfulopportunity forthe communitytocome together
"May gives us so manyopportunities to gather –tolearn, to listen and to celebrate the people and places thatmakethe Macedon Ranges such aconnected and welcoming community," she said.
"These recognition events remind us that inclusion, respect and reconciliation are things we build every day, in big and small ways."Ihopeour community embraces these events, shows up forone another and continues strengthening the spirit that makes our shiresuch aspecialplacetolive."
TicketstoMo'Ju supported by Wild Gloriosa can be purchased online via: mrsc.vic. gov.au/MoJu-Wild-Gloriosa
Frances Noonan
Michael Ryan, keeper of the rosesatFlemington Racecourse, with members of U3A Kynetonand KynetonHigh School representatives and sponsors in the memorial rose garden.
2026 Edgy Vegwinners crowned
Re tu rning to th eMacedon Ra nges fo r the fifth ye ar of ve ge table-p owe re df un, and to Mo untA lexander Sh irefor the second fa bulou syear,2 026’sEdgy Ve gAwa rd winning scores aren ow in!
Wi th the hugest number of scores ye t, 946 cust omer st ri ed avegeliciou sd ish and cast th eir vote th is ye ar!
So ,w ho among ou rl oc al café s, re staura nt s, bar sa nd pubs who threw down the gauntle tt op rove thatveget ables ca nb e crave-worthya nd indulgent, have wo n?
In the Ma ce don Ra nges, Wo odend Ce llar and Ba rh as wo nt he re stau ra nt ,p ub and bar cate go ry,a fi rs t- ti me winner,w ith their sophistica te dFaux Gra s, ap layo n Fo ie Gra s. Th is lush, savo ury mousse of ro ast ed mushrooms, cashe wb utt er and umam i-rich seasoning wa sa we ll-deserving winner
In the café ca te go ry,Macedon Ra nges
Wh olefo ods in Gi sborne wa st he winner fo rt he second ye ar in arow with their Tu rkish Br ide So up
In Mo untA lexa nd er,t he highest scoring dishes fo rt he re staurant, pu ba nd bar cate go ry fo rt he second ye ar in arow wa s Sh edshaker Brew ing fo rt heir supremely delicious Pu mp kin and Ri cott aRav ioli.
In the café ca te go ry,t he re wa sat ie fo r fi rs tp la ce between twoofC as tl emaine's
iconic café s– Saf fs Café wi th Au tum nal Okonomiyaki and Togs Pl aceC aféw ith
Za at ar Tofu !
Mo untA lexander also ce le b rate da cate go ry of bakeries this ye ar,w it hJohnny Ba ke rt aking the awardfor their delightf ul ze sty Gi nger,C arrot an dP ineapp le Cake.
Ed gy Ve g’scompe ting local business ow ner sh avea gain said the bur st of inte rest and inc re ased cu st om from both locals and visiting Ed gy Ve gAwa rd sd iner s, had re ally helped ease things fo rt heir businesses during acost-of- living crisis.
He althyLoddon Campaspe te am le ader Si mone Ho op pel ls aid healthycomm unities we re built on strong local fo od sys te ms.
"Wek nowf ro mActiveL iving Ce nsus data thatp eople in our re gion aren’t eating enough ve ge tables, making initiatives like the Ed gy Ve gAwa rd sm orei mp ortantt han ever.Bye ncouraging fresh, seasonal, ve geliciou sm ea ls, the awards playa keyrole in ce le b rating and strengthening our local fo od culture,"s he said.
Th ep ro ject is delivered by Ve gAction of the Ma ce don Ra nges Su st ainability Group an dgenerously sup port ed by He althy Lo ddon Campasp e, Mo untA lexander Sh ire Co uncil and Ma ce don Ra nges Sh ireCouncil, Co mm un ity Ba nk Gi sborne and Di strict, Sn ap Fi tness Wo odend and RT Ed gar
Come meet theKyneton Backyard Growers
Every Sundayfrom10am-12pm abunchoflocalsgather at theKynetonLion's Kiosk to giveawayfreefruit and veg.
KynetonBackyardGrowers is aproject of theKynetonTransition Hub, which is an action group of the Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group.Atthe weekly stall, you'll find it being staffed by locals, peopletaking locally grownfruit and vegfromthe table, or othersdonating their excess producefor people to take Head down and see whatthe local growers aregrowing and eatsome fresh fruit and veg. With only 2% of Aussies getting their fiveveg andtwo fruit intakeper day, Kyneton BackyardGrowers hasthe mantraofKynetonFeeding Kyneton– the project is working to connect local growers to contributetoits weekly Sundaystall andshare with therest of the community
At the momentleafy greens, Jerusalem artichoke, quince, rhubarb, sage, rosemary, parsley, pumpkins, zucchini and some lemons arecoming to thestall.Followthe project @ Kyneton.Backyard.Growers on Instagram and Facebook.
Do youlikegrowing vegetables and fruit?Ordoyou have atreethatneeds harvesting? Do youneed access to fresh fruit and veg? Visit the Growers on Sunday10am-12pm, or if youneedyourproducepickedupordropped off, call Lenka 0425 786 377 or email kyneton.backyard.growers@mrsg.org.au
Vital support for veteranfamilie s
Legacy is continuing its long-standing commitment to supporting thefamilies of veterans in the Macedon Ranges, providing practical assistance, educational support forchildren, and opportunities forsocial inclusion forthose doing it tough.
Createdin1923 in the aftermath of World WarI, Legacy wasestablished at atime when Australia was grappling with thedevastating loss of young lives and the lasting physical and mental health impactsexperienced by manywho returned from service. While ex-serviceorganisations supported returned personnel,Legacy focused on the families left behind afterthe death, injury or illness of aloved one.
More than acentury later, Legacy continues to standbeside the families of veterans who can no longer provide fortheir loved ones due to service-relateddeath,injury or illness, or who have sincepassed away Reflecting the expanded role of the Australian DefenceForce,Legacy has recently broadened eligibility forsupport to include families of former permanentorregular
ADF membersand reservists who have completeda period of full-time service, regardless of whether they undertook operational service.
Macedon Ranges Legacy Group currently supports veterans’widows and partners, as well as veteran families living across the Macedon Ranges, from Lancefield through to Taradale. Assistanceincludes financial aid forfamilies struggling to paybills or meeteveryday expenses, educational support forchildren, and activities thatfoster connection and social inclusion.
Thegroup also provides developmental opportunities foryoung people, including recreational camps forchildren.
Veterans’families residing in the Macedon Ranges areencouraged to contactLegacy to find out whatsupport maybeavailable to them.Community memberswho would liketobecome aLegatee, as avolunteer within theLegacy movement, areinvited to contactCarlSchiller,chair,Macedon Ranges Legacy Group on 0412 814212.
Macedon Ranges Edgy VegAwardssupporters JasonYork(RT EdgarReal Estate)and Eligh Blume (Snap FitnessWoodend) arepictured with cafe winnerKat Elise from Macedon Ranges Wholefoods Gisborne and restaurantwinner Adam HallidayofWoodend Cellar and Bar, and DavidGormley-O’Brien (Community Bank Gisborne and District). Photo:TiffanyWarnerPhotography
ASKTHE E p t
Whatare the biggestmistakespeoplemake when planning anew home or renovation?
It’s rushing to speak to abuilder first, andan architectsecond -ifatall
Whysay this? Builders build. Architects listen to their clients,theydesign, challenge ideas, theydocument and theyhelpyou navigate the process. As afirst pointofcall, an architect can diagnose your problems and propose apathway forward. Everyone forgetsthis, but we are professionals, and thatmeansgiving our best efforts forthe benefit of ourclients
And then much laterinthe process help find a suitablebuilderfor your project.
Ilove workingwith builders -it’spartofthe gig. And yes, oftentheyhavebetterideas thatus when it comestosolving buildability problems on site. Love em, but unless theyfromare aDesign +Constructgroup,theystill need an architectto design the worksand define the scope. Which is why youneedtospeak to one first.
Call us today:
Head office in Melbourne, based in Kyneton Phone 03 7020 5784/0414 838 317 www.whda.com.au
Why do we requireyour injuries to be stablebeforeclaiming lump sum compensation forTAC or WorkCover claims?
This is because lump sum compensation is based on your permanent, lasting functional loss, notyour earlypost-accidentsymptoms. Time is also needed to ensureall of your injuries have been properlyinvestigated, accurately assessed and included in your claim. Note though, thatinterim compensation payments may be claimed along the way. If youhavequestions about your lump sum entitlements,contact Grainger Legal to arrange afreemeeting with aTAC or WorkCoverlawyer.
Thereisoften confusion when it comes to flood coverand whatthismeans. The standarddefinition of flood in Australiais: The covering of normallydry land by water thathas escaped or been released from the normal confines of:
1. any lake, or any river,creek or othernatural watercourse, whether or notalteredor modified; or
2. any reservoir,canal,ordam (source www.insurancecouncil.com.au)
Mostfarm policies do notoffer flood cover. In some circumstances, hobbyfarms can be coveredunder aHome& Contents policy which can include Flood cover
If youhaveconcerns about your coverage, give our teamacall The advice provided is General in Nature–For Personal
Call us today:
45B Mollison Street Kyneton Phone 5422 3333 www.simplexinsurance.com.au
AFSL: 284342
Q: A:
Is t theresttill abbattteryrebbatte? ?
Yes thereis! The currentrebate scheme is called the “Cheaper Home Batteries Program” The govgives adiscount on the battery purchase depending on the kWh sizeofthe battery. The larger the battery, the larger the discount. As part of the plan the discount reduces overtime. It reducedthe first time on 1stJanuary2026, and forthe second time on 1stMay 2026. The next reduction is 1stJanuary 2027. This stepped reduction is designed to keep battery pricing stableaspricesnaturally fall.Also,newly introduced from 1stMay the relativediscountdiminishes forlarger batteries. Forbatteries larger than 14 kWh you getahigherdiscount, but notmuch higher And forbatteries larger than 28 kWh, again it’s higher but notbyasmuch. Batteries around 14 kWh, and 28 kWh, arethe sweetspotfor value
Call us today:
CentralSpark Victoria Castlemaine and Kyneton Phone 5462 5516 sales@central-spark.com
Q: Canyou copy/restore ourold Family Photos?
A: We can copy and restore your oldB/W & Colour photos, slides, and negatives and then printthem as hardcopies or send them to youindigital format. With years of experienceusing photoshop, youwill be surprised howgood we can makethem look
Call us today: Chapman’s of Castlemaine Phone 5470 5302 77 Mostyn St.Castlemaine
Canmaking concessional contributions help reducemytaxableincome?
Yes, concessional (before-tax)contributions to superannuation can be an effectiveway to reduce your taxableincome whilebuilding retirement savings. These contributions,including employer super,salarysacrifice, and personal deductible contributions, aregenerallytaxed at 15% within the super environment.
This may provide atax benefit,particularlyfor higher-income earners. However, it’s important to remain within the annual concessional contribution cap to avoid additional tax liabilities. The suitability of this strategydepends on your income, super balance, and cashflow needs. Acertified financialplanner can help ensure contributions arestructured effectivelyand aligned with your broader financialplan.
Contactustoday: Bentleys Victoria 17 Nicholson StreetWoodend 2/109 High StreetWallan Phone 5427 8100 | bentleys.com.au Email info@bentleysvic.com.au
Jas Grewal
Emma Swinden
Redmond Hamlett
Matthew Wilson
ETcare
Pet of the Month
Daphne is asix-month-old golden retriever who lovestosmile and wrestle. Shelovesto swim and duckdivedowntocollect rocks, and is very proud of her growing collection.
Daphne is anotorious sockthief, making sure nevertobecaughtand enjoying thechase way toomuch.
Oftenreferred to as aland shark, she likes to playfully chomp on anything and anyone when playing, astrong golden retrievertrait.
Herfavourite toyisa pink stuffed unicorn thatshe shows offwith pride to anynew visitor
Sheenjoys walkingdownthe streetsofKyneton, taking in the noise of traffic,the newsmells and watching the birds.
An affectionate socialite, she is shywhen first introduced but becomes your best friendaslong as thereare plenty of tummyand butt scratches.
Daphne is full of surprises, but lives up to the golden name withher smile.
Why groomingy ourdog is important —And howtodoitproperly
Formanydog owners, grooming is simply about keeping their petlooking cleanand tidy.But regular grooming is farmoreimportantthan appearances alone. Grooming plays avital role in adog’s overall health, comfort and wellbeing, while also helping owners detect potential health issues early
Whether youhaveashort-haired companion or along-coatedbreed thatrequires regular maintenance, establishing aconsistent grooming routine canhelp your dogstay healthy, happyand comfortable year-round.
WhyGroomingMatters
Regular grooming helps maintain healthy skin and coat condition by removing dirt, loose fur,and dead skin cells. Brushing also stimulatesnatural oils in the skin, helping to keep adog’s coat shinyand healthy. Without regular grooming, dogs can develop painfulmatting,skin irritations, infections, and parasites such as fleas or ticks. Overgrownnails can also affect postureand walking, potentially leading to jointdiscomfort overtime.
Grooming is also one of the best ways to monitor your dog’shealth. While brushing or bathing your pet, youmay noticelumps, cuts, rashes, ear infections, or changes in skin condition thatcould otherwise go unnoticed.
Beyond the physical benefits, grooming strengthens the bond between dogs and their owners. Dogs thatare groomed regularly oftenbecome morecomfortable being handled, making veterinary visits and other careroutines less stressful.
Brushing Your Dog
Brushing is one of the most important parts of grooming and should be tailored to your dog’scoattype.
Short-haired breeds mayonlyrequire brushing oncea week, while long-haired or double-coatedbreeds oftenneed daily brushing to preventtangles and matting.
When brushing your dog:
Usea brush suited to your dog’scoattype
Brush gently in the direction of hair growth
Payextraattention to areas prone to tangles suchasbehind the ears, under the legs, and around the tail
Reward your dogwith praise or treats to create apositiveexperience
Regular brushing also helps reduceshedding around the home and improvescirculation to theskin.
Bathing Your Dog
Dogs do notusually need frequentbathing unless theybecome particularly dirty or develop an odour.Overbathing can strip naturaloils from theskin and cause dryness or irritation.
When bathing your dog:
Uselukewarm water
Choose adog-specific shampoo
Avoid getting waterorsoap into the ears and eyes
Rinse thoroughly to preventskin irritation
Dryyour dogproperly, especially during colder weather
Thefrequency of bathing depends on breed, coat type, and lifestyle, but many dogs only requirea bath every onetothree months.
Nail Care
Overgrownnails can be uncomfortable and mayevenaffect adog’s ability to walk properly
If youcan hear your dog’snails clicking loudly on hardfloors, it maybetimefor a trim
When trimming nails:
Useproperdog nail clippers
Trim small amounts at atime
Avoid cutting into the quick, which contains blood vessels and nerves
If unsure, seek assistancefroma veterinarian or professional groomer
Some dogs naturally wear their nails down through exercise on hardsurfaces, while othersrequireregular trims.
Earand Dental Care
Acomplete grooming routine should also include checking your dog’searsand teeth.
Dirty earscan lead to infections, particularly in breeds withfloppyears. Gently wipe visible dirt away using avet-approvedear cleaner and monitor forredness, smell, or excessivescratching.
Dental careisequally important. Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease, toothloss, and other health complications. Brushing your dog’steeth regularly with dog-safe toothpastecan significantly improvedentalhealth.
When to Seek Professional Help
While manyownersgroom their dogs at home, professional groomerscan be especially helpfulfor breeds with high-maintenance coatsordogsthatbecome anxious during grooming.
Professional groomersare trained to safely clip coats, trim nails, clean ears, and identify potential skin or health concerns.
Forsome dogs, regular professional grooming appointments areessential to maintaining comfortand coat condition.
AHealthyDog Is aWell-Groomed Dog
Grooming is about much morethan keeping your doglooking its best. It is an essential part of responsible petownership thatsupportshealth, comfort, hygiene, and emotional wellbeing.
By establishing acalmand consistent grooming routine, dogownerscan help their pets livehappier,healthier lives while strengthening the bond theyshare.
Cattle yard upgrades , improve efficiency and reduce injuries
Upgrading yo ur catt le ya rd sc an re duce animal st re ss and makeyour jo bs afer and moreefficie nt .Tol ear nm orea bo ut upgrades yo uc an makeo nyour prope rty inc luding catt le gate sa nd ra mps, vis it wo rksa fe.v ic.gov. au/sa fe r- catt le -h andl ing
Beef producerwins again
Macedon Ranges beefproducer Bungeeltap Pastoral has wonthe Lardner Park Grass FedSteer Trial Highest Eating Quality Awardfor the second year in arow
TheLardner Park Steer Trial has been running for50yearsand is Australia’s only grass-fed steer trial. It is an opportunity forproducerstoassess and comparetheir cattle under independently managed grazing conditions overa six-month period. The steersarriveinmid-June with the program running until mid-November with regular weighing days
Fifty teams from across Victoria competedinthe 2025/2026 trial forthe 50th anniversary of the event. It is the thirdyear that Bungeeltap Pastoral has fielded ateam and the second year it has wonintwo different categories.
Owner Brigid Robertson said it wasan opportunity forthem to getsome valuable feedback on all the work theyhad putinto their bloodlines over theyears.
"Thereare awards forHighest Individual WeightGain, Highest WeightGain as aPair, Highest Carcase ScoreasaPair and Highest
Eating Quality(MSAIndexasaPair).
"This year we wonthe Highest Carcase ScoreasaPairand the Highest Eating Quality (MSAIndexasaPair). It is the second year in arow thatwehavewon the eating qualityaward
“The entries forthis year'strialsclose in acouple of weeksand Iwould encourage other local producerstoparticipate."
Forthose who areinterested in learning to managetheir stock quietly and in a stress-freemanner,Bungeeltap Pastoral is running aLow Stress Stock Handling Course on June 10 and 11 at Bolobek, Macedon. Thecourse covers cattle and sheep handling and is facilitatedbythe experienced and entertaining NicKentish from South Australia.
“This will be thethird time we have run this course and thereisalwayssomething newtolearn,"Brigid said.
"Animal welfareisextremely important to the waywerun things hereand we pride ourselves on our quietstock. This Low Stress Stock Handling course has been part of the journeytoachieve thatoutcome."
Enquiries via email bungeeltap@bigpond.com
“Local
Voice sShared Succe ss”
LP boardmemberAngela Bayley, Damian Adcock from Barenbrug and Kris Barnettfrom Bungeeltap Pastoral.
Let’stalk HEALTH +
ThepractitionersatTwentynine29 arethrilled to announcethattheir newclinic spaceis nowopen. Locatedrightnextdoor, this purpose-built healthhub is already up and running with awonderful mix of practitionersand services.
Anchored by afully stocked Chinese medicine dispensary operated by experienced acupuncturists from littlewindow.me, the spacealso hosts consulting roomscurrently used by psychologists and counsellors, providing acalm, professional environmentfor clients seeking mental health support.
Andthey'rejustgetting started. They have additional roomsavailable forindependent practitionerslooking fora flexible, well-appointedbasetorun their business. Spaces are available to hireonahalf-dayorfull-daybasis, making it apractical and affordable option whether you'reestablishingyourself locally or expanding your existing practice.
If you'rea practitioner interested in joining their growing community,they'dlove to hear from you. Visit twentynine29.com to find out more
Qi of LifeAcupunctureand Chinese Medicine Michele Downes –
AHPRA registered ChineseMedicine practitioner
At Qi of Life, acupuncturist Michele works with the whole person, notjust thesymptoms, pain or issues thatbring youthrough the door.Every consultation begins withlistening. Your sleep, your energy,your stress, your history,all of it shapes thecareshe offers Michele supports people through perimenopause and menopause, seasonal illness, and chemotherapy(in collaboration with and guided by your oncology team), as well as recovery afterstrokeand serious health events,walking alongside youtosupport comfort,resilience and quality of life.
Seeking an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Malmsbury Medical Centre at Malmsbury, VIC 3446
Attention: Medical Practice corporates and GPs
Are you awell-established medical practice group or aGPthat wants to enjoy the quality of life and be part of the lovely and caring community of Malmsbury in Victoria providing an essential yet much needed premium healthcare service? Then, Malmsbury would be an excellent opportunity with avery rapidly growing yet strong and cohesive community. The premises is situated in the village township of Malmsbury and comprises of adouble storey building. Ground level is an open floor plan space that can facilitate alarge reception/waiting area and accommodate 4- 6spacious consultation rooms (total area =approx. 399m2). Upstairs/Level 1is an open living/kitchenette area with 3xadjoining bedrooms with individual ensuites (total area =approx. 93m2). There is ample street front parking with access to rear of premises permitted for staff, customers and disabled parking. Malmsbury is approximately 90 km from Melbourne CBD and 65 km from Bendigo located in the beautiful Macedon Ranges Shire. To make aconfidential enquiry, email your expression of interest to: EOI@malmsburymedical.com.au by COB at 5pmonTuesday 30th June 2026 KN289992/K
Looking to improveyour strength,mobility, and bone density so youcan stay active, independent, and confident as youage?
At Real Strength Studio in Castlemaine,wehelp older adults build real strength –starting from anylevel –in asafe, supportive, and encouraging environment.
•Small group sessions with afriendlycommunity
•Fully super vised by Real Strength coaches
•Tailored to your individual needs and abilities
•Suitable forall experience and strength levels, including beginners
Feel stronger,movebetter, and livelifewith more energy and confidence. SPOTS ARE LIMITED!
Twentynine29 has expanded next door
of Life’sdoor is open to anyone seeking support withtheir general health and wellbeing. Chinese medicine has something to offeratevery stageoflife.
Acupuncture andChinese herbal medicine aredeeply versatile, but whatMichele truly brings is time, attention, and caretailored to you.
Forappointments, call 0407 582 036 or book online at qioflife.com.au/book
Qi
Above:Twentynine29’snew clinic spaceisnow open.
Right: Michele Downes.
Formanypeople,stepping into atraditional gym can feel daunting—unfamiliar equipment, lack of guidanceand the sense of going it alone can quickly sap motivation. Butat Real Strength Castlemaine, the experience is refreshingly different.
Here,it’snot just aboutbuilding stronger bodies—it’s about creating real human connection.
At Real Strength, members train in small, supportive groups, attending the samesessions each week alongside familiar faces. Over time, these consistentinteractions
foster genuine friendships, camaraderie and accountability Many memberseventaketheir connection beyond the gym—grabbing acoffeeafter class or checking in on one another when someone’s unwell.
This sense of belonging is apowerful motivator.It’swhat keeps peopleshowing up, session aftersession—and what leads to real, lasting results.
Whether it’sstrongerbones, better mobility or simply feeling moreconfidentand capable, members areexperiencing the benefits of consistency in an environmentthat
feels safe andencouraging.
Castlemaine locals find fitness and friendship
With strength coachesonhand to guide every movement, Real Strength membersdon’t have to worry about navigating their training alone or risking injury from poor technique. Instead, they’re supported every step of the way.
If you’veeverfeltoverwhelmed or uninspired by the usual gym scene, you’renot alone—and there’sa different way.
To learn moreabout howReal Strength Castlemaine could help you, visit www.realstrengthstudio.com.
Lesley, Therese, Aimee, Heather and Pip.
At Real Strength, members train in small,supportivegroups, attending the same sessions each week alongside familiar faces.
@ Y YourOPINIONS
Victoriansdeserve better
KerrieAllen, spokesperson, Regional Victorians Opposed to Duck Shooting
Yesterdayatanotherwise peaceful public lakein north-central victoria, which is ahaven fora wide range of wildlifespecies, aduckshooterwas photographed illegally shooting nativegalahs.
Thelittle pink birds fell from the sky as the shooter's dogpicked them up
Theshooteralsoappeared to be drinking alcohol, which he had in an esky at his feet,firearm in hand.
When confronted by alocal birdwatcher,the shootersaid he was"shooting ducks".The bird at his feet andinhis dog'smouth saidotherwise.
Is this Jacinta Allan's idea of "lawabiding" shooters and a"sustainable", "legitimate recreation"atthousands of public waterwaysaround Victoria –somanythey can't possibly be monitored?
Thereare "no ducks" according to locals. It seems some shooters aremaking do withshooting something else.
Galahs areknown fortheir playful crazy antics, area favoritefor birdwatchers, and lovedbymostAustralians. What people maynot realise, is thatgalahs form permanentpartner bonds. Both parents incubate the eggs. Sadly up to 50% of juvenile galahs will die before theyreach six months of age.
Last year,thisparticular waterway wasrequested by locals to be closed due to thepresenceofendangered White-bellied SeaEagles. Thegovernmentstatesthe presenceofjust twoofthese birds warrants protective action. Butauthorities did notinvestigate until afterthe shooting had commenced –too late forthe eagles and the communitywho lovedthem
This galah incidentcomplete with photosoflicence plateswill be reported to authorities but it is expected theywill do nothing aboutit. Membersofthe public arestill waiting forreports made last year of illegal shooting activity complete with photo evidence. Victorians deservebetter.
Local knowledge (1 point)
1. What localtownwas named afterthe English villageofKineton?
2. What is the name of the market thatis held on the first Sundayofeach month in Gisborne?
3.Wherewould youfind MountTarrengower?
4. Howmanypubs does Woodend have? (3 points)
5. Whohid out in theWombatState Forest forseveral weeks in 1870? General knowledge (1 point)
6. If aturtlelays their eggs in the cold, what gender willthe babies be?
7. What is the official nameofBig Ben?
8. What percentageofthe population is ambidextrous?
9. What were thesmall pocketsinjeans originally designed to hold? (3 points)
10. Which three
makeup
Cruel consequences
Ruth Taskis, Edgecombe
Iwriteinresponse to SidLarwill ('Risky and misguided', Opinions,April28). Iagree thattrying to interceptkangaroo shooters is arisky actionwherever thereare liverounds, butIdonot believe the motives of the protestersare misguided. Your correspondentcontrasts kangaroo culls withthe manner in which cattle areslaughtered in abattoirs.
With our largely urban population it would be dangerous, unhealthyand impractical forpeople to slaughtertheir own, thereforeabattoirsmay be considered anecessary evil.
In Australia we highly regulate the industry to try to ensure animals suffer as little distress as possible, though processes should alwaysbeexamined for complianceand improvements. Beef cattle arebred and cared forbyfarmers, specifically forthe meat industry
Notsokangaroos, which arewild animals and due to theircharacteristics areunsuitable forfarming. Kangaroos panic and die from stress when herded. Their numbers increase in wetyears but reduceconsiderably when their breeding cycle is put on hold during drought.
At apropertynear Kyneton, newlandowners fenced their entire40 hectares with 180cm high ringlock, ostensibly to keep kangaroos out. However it appearsthatthe gate has sometimes been left open which defeatsthis purpose and confused kangaroosbecome trapped.
Latelyshooterscome in themiddle of the night, shooting close to houses and roads, at times contrary to noise and safety laws
Recently aconcerned neighbour contactedWildlifeRescue, having encounteredthe horror spectacle of afemale kangaroo, joeyatheel, with her jaw shotoff.I believe she hadsurvivedwiththishorrific injury forseveral days following the latest cull.
Shehas sincebeen euthanised and one hopes her
joeyisold enough to survivewithout its mother
This is the differencebetween ahighly regulatedabattoir industry and shootersofpossibly dubious skill who can leave theareanonethe wiser to thecruel consequences of their actions.
Arash andunnecessarydecision
RichardCantwell, Gisborne
On October 24, 1889, HenryParkesspoke at the Tenterfield School of Arts in NSWofthe need to join Australia as afederation and continue the railways as asingle gaugebetween all statesofAustralia. He wanteda railway transporting goods all overAustralia.
In 1915, Prime Minister Andrew Fisher proposed arailway between Port Augusta in South Australia to Brisbane. TheInland Railway has been mootedeversincebypoliticiansand those needing shipmentoftheir crops and goods. Finally it commenced in 2018. Over 1600 kilometres long, reducing the time forshipmentofgoods from Melbourne to Brisbane from 33hoursto24hours, employing nearly 10,000 people, taking 110 B-Doubles offthe road. Each train reliable, priceadvantageous, 21 tonne axle loads travelling up to 110 kilometres perhour.The trains are16 times morefuel efficientand therewould be less congestion on the roads, fewer accidents, less wear and tear on the roads and much safer. Thetrains carry miningproducts, grain, consumergoods, steel and livestock. Double stacked trains are1800 metres long transporting from Beveridge in Victoria to Ebenezer in Queensland then single stacked to Kagaru Queensland and onto theport of Brisbane. Thereare 20 railway lines thatfeedintothe inland rail lineenabling goods to travel to Perth, Darwin, Sydney, Newcastle, Melbourne and townsinbetween.
In the last fewdaysthe governmenthas decided to terminatethe line in Parkes NSWand notcontinue because of the rising costs. Moneywill be allocated tothe Melbourne Suburban Rail Loop, which will createmore congestion and more population in already crowded suburbs, whereas the inland railway would provide employmentand stabilitytoinland Australia. Sleepy inland townswould return to their former glory. Thecostwill only rise on this necessary project and history will condemnsucha rash and unnecessary decision.
Multipleopportunities for peace
DenisGeorge, Castlemaine
Last week's Opinions pagecontained aletterfromaDrMaurie Arty. Thelettertookthe form of apoem wherein he criticised another recent correspondentand myself forwhatheimaginedwereour views on the currentsituation in the Middle East.Ratherthanusing theopportunity to counterthose views by offering factsand opinions of hisown, he chose to merely denigrateour opinions by making funofthem in aparticularly pointless and childish way, even to the pointofhiding behind apseudonym.Anyone who thinks that the Middle East situation isn't complex hasn't read enough on thematter.
Themainpointmadebymyself wasthatsince1948, although there have been many wars and constantincursions therehavealsobeen multiple opportunities forthe Arab countries to makepeace withIsrael. Apart from peacetreaties with Egypt(1979) and Jordan (1994) these opportunities have all been rejected.
And nowthe world has to deal with Iranand its proxymates, Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houtis. Does Dr Artyconsider thatlot to be just a harmless bunchofpeaceniks?
And then, Dr Arty claims my factsabout the Arab wars to be my declarationthat“it'sall the Arab's fault”.Well, Doc, it'ssomeone's fault, so who wouldyou suggest?No prizes forguessing!
Essential for trustinthe system
Christian Slattery, seniorcampaigner
Australian Democracy Network
Theproblem of moneyinpolitics isn’t adistantCanberraissue –it’sa local one.
As OneNation’s big win at theFarrer by-election has them eyeing seatsatVictoria’s state electionnext, transparency around who bankrolls political campaigns is essential because voters cannotjudge apolitical movementiftheycannotsee whoisfunding it
Ahead of theFarrer by-election, Australia’s richest woman, Gina Rinehart, donateda plane worthalmost $2 million to theOne Nation campaign. If thishad happened yesterday,inVictoria, voters wouldn’t necessarily knowabout it.
That’s because Victoria is currently in adangerous black hole, operating without laws on politicaldonations, spending, and disclosureafter the High Court struck down parts of theold system. This legal void createsa seriousrisk thatdark moneycan secretly shape campaigns and decisions. Withoutcaps or clear disclosure, thereiseffectively no limit on howmuch awealthyindividual or group canspend to influencealocaloutcome, leaving ordinary voters completely in the dark.
Across country Victoria communities, whereelections areoften closer and resourcesmorelimited, fair rules arecritical to ensure everyone gets heard. Clear visibilityaround moneyand influenceisessential fortrustin thesystem.
While the Allan Governmentisunderstandably pushing fora quick fix, we must remember the last setoflawsfailed because theywereself-interestedand fundamentally unfair.Repeating these errorswill only further erode public confidence.
Writersare askedtokeep letterstoamaximum of 300 words. Longer lettersmay only be published at the editor'sdiscretion. Names, addresses and contact phone numbers must be included for verification purposes.
Email lettersto: acrawford@midnews.com.au
World-classpianist to perform
Afterthe hugesuccess of the recent 50th Castlemaine StateFestival, there’s moretolook forwardto— with internationally acclaimed pianist LucasDebargue set to perform in town this month as part of one of the festival’supcoming fundraising events.
Theperformanceispart of the ongoing collaboration with Live at Yours Debargue will appear at theCastlemaine Town Hall on SaturdayMay 30 —bringing atouch of the world’sbiggest concert halls to the heart of regional Victoria, while also supporting the futureofthe festival.
The50th Castlemaine StateFestival drew strong crowdsand glowing feedback, reinforcing Castlemaine’s reputation as a go-todestination forartsand culture. This upcoming concert continues that momentum, with proceeds helping to support future programming and keep world-class performances coming to theregion.
Debargue first caughtthe world’sattention at theXVInternational Tchaikovsky Competition, whereaudiences were struck by hisoriginality and depth. Hispathinto music hasn’t been conventional —shaped by interests in literature, painting and jazz —and thatcomes through in performances thatfeel fresh, thoughtful and completely unique.
Sincethen, he’s played at some of the world’smosticonic venues, including the Berlin Philharmonie, Concertgebouw Amsterdam, WigmoreHall and Carnegie Hall, and alongside leading orchestrassuch as the RoyalConcertgebouw Orchestra, Mariinsky Orchestraand OrchestredeParis.
ASonyClassical artist, Debargue’s recordings span composersfromScarlatti and Bach through to Chopin and Ravel, as well as his owncompositions. With morethan 20 original works to his name, he’s as much
acreator as he isa performer
Trained in Paris under Rena Shereshevskaya,Debargue has carved out areputation as one of the most intriguing pianists on the international stage— withperformances thatfeel less likerecitals and more like an exploration of the music itself
This Live at Castlemaine xLucas Debargue performancepromisesanintimate,
Aripper of aBritishfarce
Kyneton'snot-for-profit Cathouse Playerswill soon prove thatlaughteristhe best medicine, in their cosy pop-uptheatreatthe KynetonMasonic Centre,7 Yaldwyn Street West.
NotNow,Darling by RayCooneyand John Chapman, is aripper of aBritish farce, and is set in the exclusiveLondon fursalon of Bodley, Bodleyand Crouch.
It's the 1970s. Serial womaniser and charming ladies' man Gilbert Bodleyisplanning his next conquest, the seduction of his would-be-mistress, Janie McMichael, astripper from the Lido. However, when MrsMaude Bodleysuddenly returnsfromher South of Franceholiday, events rapidlyunravel and chaos ensues involving mistaken identities, sets of ladies underwear,anocelotcoat, aparrotand the RoyalNavy.
Matinees areat2pm on June 20/21 and June 27/28, and aperformanceonFridayJune 26 at 8pm. Doorsopen30minutes before showtime.
Ticket prices forCathouse Playersproductions remain at $25/$20 and include sherries, programs, interval refreshments serving wine and cheese at the eveningshow, andtheir legendary 'High TeawithBubbles' at the 2pm matinees.
Bookings via www.trybooking.com/DLIAGor0494 166 257 forenquiries and special needs.
Cash is preferred if paying at the door
Companion Cardiswelcome. Book thecarer'sseaton0494 166 257.
memorable nightofmusic in the beautiful surrounds of the Castlemaine Town Hall and achancefor audiences to support the continued success of the festival.
Theconcert begins at 7pm. Ticketsare expected to sell quickly Getyours at castlemainefestival.com.
au/event/live-at-castlemaine-lucas-debargue
Shop, indulge andenjoy
High Street Lancefield is home to the town’s monthly farmersmarket, offering an inviting setting along thehistoric Centre Plantation to shop,indulgeand enjoylocal performers.
Children areinvited to afreeface-paint from Pass-the-Parcelevery month, courtesy of the Lancefield Neighbourhood House. The market this Saturdayfeaturesagreat diversity of produceand unique products from 85 local and regional producers.
It's on from 9am to 1pm.
Pictured is Bridget Hunter at the Jingliberry AlpacaFarm stand.
Ross TempestasArnold Crouch, and inanimate object in the Bodley,Bodley and Crouch London fur salon.Photo:Gerry Connelly
Acclaimed pianist Lucas Debargue is settovisit Castlemaine on May30. Photo:Dovile Sermokas.
HappyBirthday Bir thda y
THURSDAY,MAY
MONDAY
Covering the Macedon Ranges and MountAlexander Shires
TheMacedon Ranges WildlifeNetwork, in partnership with Kangaroos Alive, has celebrated the overwhelming success of its inaugural Kangaroo Walk andTalk at the iconic Hanging Rock Reserve.
Thesold-out eventattracted enthusiastic locals, visitorsfromMelbourne, and international tourists eager to experience one of Australia’s most famous naturallandmarks while learning about the eastern grey kangaroo mob that calls Hanging Rock home.
Set against the stunning backdropofthe reserve, participants were guidedbyexperienced wildliferescuersand advocatesonanengaging and informativewalk exploring kangaroo behaviour,wildliferescue, conservation and the importanceofpeacefully coexisting with Australia’s nativeanimals.
Thewalk also highlightedthe incredible biodiversity of Hanging Rock, with visitors learning thatthe reserveishome to an array of nativewildlifeincluding koalas, wombats, peregrine falcons, wedge-tailed eagles and wallabies.
MRWN member and co-host FionaLeen said theevent demonstrated the growing communityinterestinwildlifeeducation and conservation.
“Itwas incredibly rewarding to see people of allagessoengaged and excited to learn moreabout thekangaroos and other wildlifethatcall Hanging Rock home,” she said.
Funds raised through theevent directly support MRWN’svolunteer-led wildliferescue, rehabilitation, advocacy, and community education programsacrossthe Macedon Ranges region.
Following thesuccess of the inauguralwalk,additional eventsare nowbeing planned, with privategroup bookings also available
Community membersare encouraged to follow MRWN’swebsiteand social media channels forupcoming eventdates and booking information.
Is gorseaffecting your propertyvalue?
Gorseis having aprofoundimpacton propertyvalues in central Victoria according to PeterSporle, Pipers Creek Landcareand Victorian GorseTaskforce ambassador
“Gorse is probably the most invasiveweed of economic and environmental significance in the Macedon Ranges and Mitchell Shires," he said.
"Landholdersoften feel overwhelmed, with gorsebeing seen as an issue toobig to deal with.
“Ifleftunchecked, gorsewill decimate the central Victorian landscape, have ahuge impactonproperty values and create asignificantfirehazardinrural residential areas, such as the attractive‘tree change’ peri-urban areas around Kyneton, Kilmore, Woodend and Wandong townships.
“Gorse is an insidious weed,given its 30-years-plusseed viability and itsliking forthe central Victorian climate and soil. It presents possibly the greatest threatto environmental sustainabilityinthe region to saynothing of the extremefirehazardgorse presentsona year-round basis.
"All of this is quitedaunting to newproperty owners who have little or no appreciation of the timeand cost involved in essential weed managementand firehazardreduction, an individual responsibility when living in a rural area."
Pipers CreekLandcareand the Victorian GorseTaskforce see it differently.With persistence, gorsecan becontrolled and thereis
awealth of ideas and tips on theVictorian GorseTaskforce website. By joining in withneighboursand local landcaregroups, real-world experiences can be shared.
Pipers Creek Landcareis an example of an active gorsecontrolgroup in the region. Others canbefound through theUpper Campaspe LandcareNetwork and Connecting Country websites.
“Takeaction nowand learn how to care forour beautifulregion…youcan do it!” is Peter’stakehomemessage
Participants were eagertoexperienceone of Australia’s most famous natural landmarks while learning about the eastern grey kangaroomob thatcallsHanging Rock home
Gorseisprobably the most invasiveweedof economic and environmental significanceinthe Macedon Ranges
MIDLAND Property &Living
Ahome withhistory,heart andendless charm
Set withinone of Kyneton's oldest and most tightly held streets, this beautifully charming home offers araresense of warmth, history and connection, just moments from thetown's cafes, restaurants, schools and everydayconveniences.
Originally built in the 1920s as the Salvation Army Quarters and known as 'Malakuna', thehome carries arich local story, with freestone sourcedfromthe original Lauriston quarry.From the sandstone facade through to thesoaring oak tree thatanchorsthe rear garden, thereisanundeniable sense of character and soul thatflows throughoutthe property.
Beyond the classic centralhallway,the home unfoldswith high ceilings, generous proportions and acomforting simplicity thatfeels immediately welcoming. Threewell sized bedrooms are complementedbya lightfilled sitting room,while the expansive open plan kitchen, meals andfamily area forms the trueheart of
the home. Beautifully grounded by astriking stone featurewall, this spaceisbothfunctional and inviting.
Thekitchen offers excellentbench spacealong withgas and electric cooking and adishwasher,while split systemheating and cooling adds comfort through theseasons.
To therear,the enclosed backyardfeels wonderfully private and established, framed by mature gardens and the magnificent oak tree overhead. Aseparaterear studio provides further flexibility,complete with abedroom, bathroom, sitting area and split system, ideal forguests, creativeuse or additional accommodation.
Rich in heritagecharm yetwonderfully comfortable as it stands, this is ahomewith genuine heart, wherehistory, character and lifestyle come together in one of Kyneton'smost treasured locations.
Tucked away in aquietcourt setting, this beautifully refreshed residencedeliversspace, privacy and arelaxed lifestyle on approximately one acreofestablished grounds. Surrounded by maturetrees and designed to maximise seclusion, the property offers apeaceful retreatjust momentsfromthe heart of Riddells Creek.
Thoughtfully designed forfamily living, the homeshowcases multiple living areas to suit every occasion, including formal and informal zones, aspaciousrumpus or home office,and aseparateloungeideal formovie nights or quietrelaxation. At the centre of the home, the well-appointedkitchen with granitebenchtops overlooks the open-plan meals and family area, creating awarm and inviting hub.
Accommodation comprisesfour generous bedrooms, serviced by three bathrooms, while recent improvements-including fresh interior and exterior paintand newcarpetstoall bedrooms and the rumpus-add amodern, move-in-ready feel.
Gascentral heating provides comfort through the cooler months, while alarge laundry and ample storageenhanceeverydayfunctionality Outdoors, the propertycontinues to impress with its established gardens, irrigation
system, town waterconnection, and avarietyofpractical features includingacovered entertaining area, glasshouse, vegetable garden (serviced by afresh watertank supply)and multiple shedding options. Adouble garagewith workshop spaceiscomplementedbya separatebrick shed, ideal foradditional vehicles, storageorhobbies.
Offering ararecombination of privacy,presentation and proportions, this is aproperty designed forfamilies seeking both comfort and lifestyle.
*ID required upon inspection
Property: Relaxedlifestyleonanacre
Address: 5Arrow Court, Riddells Creek
Price: $1,395,000
Agent: Raine and Horne Gisborne
Contact: KenGrech
At Jellis CraigCentral Victoria, we combineunrivalled market leadership with meticulous aentiontoevery detail in all aspects of propertymanagement. From staying ahead of legislativereforms to maximising rental returns, we provideinvestorswithcomplete confidenceand peaceofmind.
If youwould likea complimentaryand confidential rental appraisal, contact us today.
When price, quality, andlocationalign—opportunities like this don’t last.Complete homesfrom $609,000*
Positioned in oneofthe best pockets of Kyneton On Riverside, thesecustom-designed homesdeliver premiumlivingwith nothingmoretospend.Whether you’re downsizing or investinginlifestyle,thisis low-maintenanceliving withoutcompromise.
VillageGreen Terraces,are just minutesfromPiper Street,the trainstation,schools,parks,and the Campaspe Riverwalking trails.
Modern.Efficient.Move-in Ready.
Chat to ourconjunctional agents or book atourtoday.
Melisa Cabada 0411 318 027
Whyhomes cost what they cost —
Andwhy VillageGreen Terraces matter
Thepriceofa newhomeismade up of far morethan bricks and mortar
Before akey is ever handed over,the cost of delivering housing already includes land acquisition, governmenttaxes and levies, planning contributions, holding costs, legal fees, bank interest, sales and marketing, contingency allowances, and finally the cost of construction itself.Only afterall of that does adeveloper see anyprofit.
It’s acomplexequation —and one that has made home ownership harder than ever formanylocals.
That’s exactlywhy VillageGreen Terraces at KynetonOnRiverside has been created.
Rather than simply delivering moreof the same large-lothousing, our team has taken adeliberateapproach: design smarter homes on moreefficientlandfootprints, in aconnected location close to thetownship, transport and everydayamenity. Thegoal is simple —createhomes thatlocals can realistically buy,not just admirefromthe sidelines.
VillageGreen Terraces is about giving first-homebuyers, downsizers, single parents and working families agenuine pathwayintothe market.Itrecognises that
manypeople who grew up in Kyneton, work in Kyneton, or have family in Kynetonare increasingly being priced out of the town theylove.
Toooften, buyersare forced to look further afield to places likeBendigoor beyond —not because theywanttoleave, but because affordability leavesthem little choice.
TheKynetonOnRiverside team is pushing back against thattrend.
By delivering thoughtfully planned terrace homes with lowerentry pricepoint– from $609,000, theyare helping restoresomething every strong regional town needs: the ability forlocals to staylocal, raise families nearby, remain close to support networks, and build theirfuturewheretheir roots already run deep.
VillageGreen Terraces is morethana housing release. It is apractical response to the affordability crisis.
Achancefor locals to compete again.
Anda reminder thatprogress should include the peoplewho madethe town what it is.
Set on agenerous approx.1021m² allotment, this neatthreebedroom home offers comfort,spaceand future potential in the heart of Newstead. Alight-filled living room flowsthrough to apractical kitchen and dining area, while all three bedrooms include built-in robes and areservicedbya centralbathroom, separatetoiletand laundry
Outside, the expansivebackyardfeaturesestablished gardens,
awater tank and alarge shed/garagewith excellentaccess, ideal fortradies, storageorhobbies. Awide driveway andample open spaceprovideflexibility forfamilies or those looking to further enhanceovertime. Conveniently locatedwithin easywalking distancetothe town centre,café, hotel, primary school and local amenities, this is afantastic opportunity forfirst home buyers, investorsordownsizers.
Property: Charming homeon1021m²
Address: 17 Wyndham Street,Newstead
Price: $560,000 –$610,000
Agent: Castlemaine PropertyGroup
Contact: BrettWaller0407 610 268
BrettFitzpatrick 0419 833 510
283 TroysRoad, WA LMER
RA RE WA LMER AC RE AG E
•Approx.46hectares (113.66 acres /460,000m²) in tightly held Walmer
•Productiveland with open grazing paddocks and scattered nativetrees
•Two dams and aseasonal creek enhancing the landscape
•Potential futurehome siteinapeaceful countr y setting (STCA)
•Suitable forlivestock ,hobbyfarming or recreational use
•Easy access to Castlemaine,Bendigo and surrounding townships FOR SALE $1,100,000
•The sitealso has 12 secureinternal carparks with 4 allocatedtoeach tenanc y.
•Prime corner position within Castlemaine’s commercial precinct
•Par tofthe established Castlemaine Business Centre
•Diversified income stream underpinned by established businesses
•Approx.3.5 acres with beautiful outlooks across Larni Barramal Yaluk and toward the Loddon River
•Character-filled home with four bedrooms,ornate ceilings and original fireplaces
•Refurbished kitchen, multiple living spaces,wood heating and split system comfor t
•Established gardens plus extensiveshedding, workshop,garage and original shearing shed facilities
•Conveniently locatedbetween Guildfordand Newstead,approx.15minutes to Castlemaine and Daylesford
MID LAND Property &Living
Classi ccharacter with afresh modern edge
Ma ldonHotel C.1909
Freehold Inve stment-Rea lEstatea nd Chattels Only Fixe dTermL eas einPla ce
The Maldon Hotel standsasone of theregion’s most significant historic landmarks. Rebuilt in 1909 to the design of renowned architect LouisBoldini, the strikingVictorian erabuildings featurea grand upper balconywith intricate cast iron lacework andawide verandah that framesthe footpath below.
EOI
Closes Wednesday 3June, 2pm Insp ect By Appointment
Behind the privacy of asolid frontfence, this beautifully presentedthree-bedroom home delivers warmth, personality and everyday practicality, combining tasteful modern updates with the retro charm thatmakes homes of this erasoenduringly appealing.
Filled with naturallightthroughout, the home offers acomfortable and highly functional floor plan designed forrelaxed living. Polished timberfloorsadd warmth and texture,while ducted gas heating ensures year-round comfort
Theinviting formal loungeprovides a welcoming spacetounwind, complete with reversecycle heating and cooling, while the adjoining kitchen and dining zone retainsits neat original character
Aseparatesunroom adds versatility and naturallight, ideal as areading retreat, home
office, second living spaceor kids' playroom. Thestandout central bathroom has been stylishly updated, complementing the home's classic features. Twoof the three bedrooms include built-in robes, while the overall layout feels both practical and inviting.
Stepping outside, theelevatedfront deck createsa warm first impression and an ideal spottosit and enjoythe surroundings. The securefront yard offers privacy and space forchildren or pets, while the substantial garageadds excellentfunctionalitywith two roller doors, generous workshop spaceand mezzanine storage.
Move-in readywith character,comfort and flexibility already in place, this is ahome thatimmediatelyfeels welcoming while still offering room to personalise and makeyour own.
Forsaleisthe freehold investment comprising thereal estateand chattels, secured by afixed term leaseof the operation of ahighlyregarded business includinga bottleshop,function room,beer garden,pub, bistro and accommodation. Investors will appreciate both the financial strength of astableleaseina thrivingregional economyand therareprivilegeofcustodianship of such an iconic pieceof Australian histor y. Maldon’s year roundtourism underpinsavibrant local economy, complementingits strong permanent population. While thepreser ved19th centur ystreetscape sets the scene, it is the community, the cultureand the clever calendar of events that draw visitors from acrossthe countr y- ensuring thisremarkabletownship continuestoprosper well intothe future
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Town Folk Festival has unveiled its first21artists for2026, an impressiveassortmentoflocal and international talentwho will all descend on Djaara/ Castlemaine on SaturdayNovember21.
Nowinits sixth year,TownFolk is holding firm as the little festival withthe grand vision. Forthose in the know, it is the daytodiscover newartists of acontemporary folk flavour; acarefully curated choose-your-own-adventureinan easy-going boutiqueformat. Performances takeplaceacross four uniquestages, all just ashort walk from one another.It’sa musical smorgasbordwherepunters are guaranteed to land on something special.
LedbyNew Zealand'smercurial eccentric Aldous Harding and midwest folk romantic Kevin Morby (USA), the lineup also features Dutchpsych-instrumental outfit
YĪN YĪN, Melbourne’s world-conquering queens Folk BitchTrio, the long-awaited Australian debut of Flyte(UK), slow-coreNew York storyteller Allegra Krieger,WA bush reggae sensations Docker RiverBand, plus local heroes Rolling Blackouts CoastalFever,Way Dynamic,RomyVager and so many more.
An accessible and family-friendly festival experience,TownFolk champions community, camaraderie, local produceand incred-
ible music performances. Official festival venues TheBridgeHotel, Shedshaker Taproom, and Boomtown Winery areatthe centre of the action, all on one perfect day in regional Victoria.
Ticketsgoonsalethis Thursday May21at9am. Be sure to grab yoursvia townfolkfestival.com
Town Folk Festival is supported by the federal government through LiveMusic Australia, Visit Victoria and MountAlexander ShireCouncil.
THE LINEUP
Thefirst 21 artists in the Town Folk Festival 2026 lineup areas follows:
Aldous Harding (NZ)
AllegraKrieger (USA)
BudRokesky
Darren Hanlon
Docker RiverBand
Emily Lubitz
Flyte(UK)
Folk BitchTrio
Hannah Cameron
Immy Owusu
Jordie Lane
Kevin Morby(USA) Minna (UK)
NatPavlovic
Rolling BlackoutsCoastal Fever
Romy Vager
SnowyBand
SunnyMorris WayDynamic
Winter McQuinn YĪN YĪN (NL)
Final shows for inimitable storyteller
After55years ‘onthe road’, eightbooks, nine albums, adozenABC RN feature programs, acouple of television docos and moretimes on stagethan he can count, storyteller/musician Jan‘Yarn’Wositzky is taking long serviceleave (courtesyofthe Australian government).
Hislastshows for2026 will be two hometown gigs at TheCoolroom at Northern Arts Hotel, Castlemaine on FridayMay 29 and SaturdayMay 30.
In Jan’sinimitable style of mixing stories, music and songs, high on entertainmentvalue and digging deep into the Australian story, TheLong ServiceLeaveShow will swing from long-lovedBushwacker songs thatstill hold up in this chaotic 21 st century– including Jan’sout thereidea of the mythic origins of Waltzing Matilda, and aslice of TomWaits in the melodic interpretation.
Therewill be political songs from the 1950-1960s songwriterswhom Jancalls ‘Australia’s WoodyGuthries’.
Therewill also be amusical thread from Castlemaine’s 1851 Monster Meeting to Eureka to the1891 Shearer’sStrikeand then across the seas with 500 shearersand socialists, including poetMary Gilmore, who in 1893 sailed to Paraguaytoset up an NewAustralia Utopia in Paraguay– including howrace, sexand booze hadabit to do with the outcome…) plus ahandful of Jan’sintimate,original song-stories.
Janwill be joined in the Paraguaypiece by hispartner,actor/musician, Penny Glass, playing quena and being Mary Gilmore.
Then it’ssix months long serviceleave Take up golf.Become aconnoisseur of Castlemaine’s 3000 coffee shops, hang out withthe latest latteswilling blow-ins, cut the grass, visit his grand-daughters in Perth and take to theback verandah with his banjo.
Be suretosnapupyour ticket to these twofinal shows before theysell out.Book at events.humanitix.com/lsls
CDoc programunveiled
TheCastlemaine Documentary Festival revealed its 2026 programatalaunch event at Boomtown Winery &Bistrolast Thursday. Love –the antidote is the guiding theme forCDoc2026, and acall to come home to our shared humanity
Across three days andnights, audiences will gather at theTheatre RoyalCastlemaine fora curatedprogram of deeply human nonfiction cinema, alongside conversations, music and events thatextend the experience beyond the screen.
Festival director ClaireJager said Love –the antidote wasbothathemeand acall to action.
"These films don’t look away from complexity or conflict –theyfacehardtruths while holding onto connection as something worth fighting for.”
From FridayJune 26 to SundayJune 28, CDoc brings together aselection of 11 outstanding Australian and international documentaries thatmove between the personal and the political, the intimate andthe collective– revealing just howclosely they areconnected.
Theprogram will kick offFridayafternoon with the screening of RodQuantock's Comedy Warrior followedby Agridulce (Bittersweet)at5pm andthe return of LOCALS at 8pm.
In its fifth year,LOCALS is the cornerstone eventofthe festival and celebrates the work of regional filmmakersand the stories emerging from thecommunityitself
This year’sjury –including Emmy Awardwinning filmmaker Katie Mitchell and Sundance-recognised director NooraNiasari –reflects both the calibreofentries and the
growing profile of the competition. Fridaynight’sLOCALS screening culminatesinone of the festival’sbiggest gatherings, with the TheatreRoyal afterparty bringing filmmakers, friends and audiences together in true communityspirit.
CDoc 2026 also spills out beyond the cinema, with food,music and gatherings woventhroughout theweekend.
On Saturdaymorning, audiences can bravethe Castlemaine cold forporridge and congee at the TheatreRoyal, served up by local icon Duang ahead of TheGolden Spurtle screening –a film that takes porridgemost seriously
This will be followedby HowDeepIsYour Love and theAustralian premiereof The Bendinthe River.
Then on Saturdaynight, after MoveYa Body: TheBirth of House,local DJ legend JenMoore takesoverthe decks fora latenightafter partycelebrating the sound that changed nightlifeforever
Sundaymorning We AreNot Powerless followsa group of refugees in Indonesia who, facedwith limited access to education and an uncertain future, come together to build aschoolfor their children andwill include aliveQ&A with the directors.
This will be followedbythe Australian premiereof Buck'sHarbor and theVictorian premiereof Coexistence, My Ass! and capping offwith Secret Mall Apartment
Thefestival wraps on Sundayevening with closing nightdrinks at belovedlocal breweryLoveShackbeforeeveryone heads back into winter
Formoreinformation and tickets visit cdocff.com.au
Mid-west folk romanticKevin Morby(USA) will be among the internationalartiststofeatureatTownFolk Festival
PennyGlasswill featureinthe May 29 and 30 shows.Photo:Julie Higginbotham
Castlemaine storyteller/musician Jan‘Yarn’ Wositzky is getting setfor his Long ServiceLeave Show.Photo:PennyGlass
We AreNot Powerlesstellsthe tale of agroup of refugee women. In Afghanistan theyare notallowedto get an education,inIndonesia they become teachers, managers and football players.Photo:Muzafar Ali
Our Roots Run Deep
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Success forpetanque
TheWoodend Hanging Rock Petanque Club has enjoyedabusyand successful month, with members competing in tournaments across Victoria almost every weekend.
Club members travelled extensively to takepart in competitions throughout the state,continuing to showcase their enthusiasm and dedication to thesportof petanque.
Theclubrecently playedits final game forthe season at Hanging Rock before relocating its regular Thursdaysessions to the OldRacecourse in Woodend. Games will nowbeheld therefrom2pm until daylightsaving resumes in October
While membersare settling into the newvenue,manyreflected fondly on the afternoons spentplaying at Hanging Rock throughout the year,surrounded by sunshine, kangaroos and rosellas.
Thepast year has included several
memorable highlights forthe club, including ShirleyMarshall’sVictorian Championship Women’s Singles victory,team nights, the Hanging Rock Challenge, long lunches and celebrations marking the club’s25th anniversary Last weekend, the ForsterCup was held at theMaldon Petanque Club, where Woodend Hanging Rock member Shane Wellington waspart of the winning team alongside Giselle Whiteaker from St Kilda Petanque Club and Michael Vissenjoux from Dove Petanque Club. Wellington, who has been amember of the Woodend Hanging Rock Petanque Club forsix years, is well known among fellowplayers forhis passion and commitmenttothe game.
Working as achefatthe Riddells Creek Hotel, Wellington makes the mostofevery spareMondayorThursdayafternoon to play petanque, regardless of the weather
Rain disruptsDDGAfinals
Aftera continuous long period of supreme weather it wasinevitable achange wasonthe way.
Anditjust happened on theday Dalhousie District Golf Association's seven pennantfinals were due to be playedon Sunday, May3
Lancefield golf course wasingreat condition, but anxious eyes began to gaze skywards as 8am approached.
Thefirst 10 teamswereall readyto go,and handicap divisions 1, 2, and 3got under wayat8am. Restricted division 1and 2awaited their turn.
Alas, torrential rain arrived and competition washaltedat9am with arevisit to inspect the course mid-morning to assess its suitabilityfor resumption.
Regrettably the course wasinundated and the morning competition wascancelled.
Scratchdivisions 1and 2—the elite grades —werescheduled to hit offat 12.30pm when the rain had diminished and the sand-based course drained well.
TREMENDOUS BATTLE
TheDivision 2final produced atremen-
dous battle between unbeatenSeymour and Woodend.
Scores were locked 2-2 withfour individual matches completed, and it was anyone's pennant.
With brightsunlightabove,LukeRogan sank the winning putttomakeSeymour the DDGADivision 2scratch champions.
Theecstatic team comprisedMatt O'Sullivan, Mick Prorok, Luke Rogan, Matt Collardand Dave Pearce
Hidden Valley went into the Division 1scratch final as favouriteagainst Mt Macedon.
Thestrong side comprising IanAtherferd,TrevorLambert, Cameron Pascoe, Michael Ladewig and IanGarethEdwards scored adecisive4/1 victory SWITCH TO JUNE14
ThefiveDDGASundaypennantfinals which could notbecompleted have now been transferred to Sunday, June 14.
Afterdue consideration, four finals will be playedatLancefield.
Thefifth, theHandicap 2section clash between Marysville and Alexandra, is to takeplace at Eildon.
Michael Vissenjoux, Giselle Whiteaker and Shane Wellington –ForsterCup Winners.
Wrightsetsnew record
Daniel Wrightset anew course record of 71 on his waytowinning Romsey Golf Club's 2026 championship by seven strokes on Saturday.
Amulti-talentedsportsman, Wright has notbecome addicted to golf over the years, but he sethis sights on playing moreregularly this season.
TheRomseylocal makes cricketlook easy, with runs flowing from his bat, and nowhehas reached the thirties he might just produce the golf some keen judges knowhecan be capable of
He's played afew times with topAussie professional Cameron Smith overthe yearsand wasnot disgraced.
Wrightwon the 54-hole championship by carding 80, 74, 71 —215, sevenshots clear of defending titleholder Michael Squire.
Thenew champion needed just 22 putts on Saturday,and brokeDean Kohler'scourse record by ashot.
Squirewas aclear second, with Ben Noel third, four strokes further back.
Wrightalsowon the 54-hole handicap event, twoahead of BenNoel.
In the men's B-grade, JaredBeswick wasthe winner,fiveshots ahead of Nathan Maroney.
Beswick also wonthe handicap award, nine aheadofScottWilliams.
Tony Lakeyfinished four shots clear of
Keith Hocking in C-grade, with Hocking taking out the handicap prizefrom Michael Nicholls Snr.
Nicholls Snrwon the Senior Cupwith anett238.
BAKER YET AGAIN
HotfavouriteDarlene Bakerisa multiple women's champion at Romsey, and she wasuntroubled to finish amassive21shots clear of runner-upJenny Hartley.
Ever-green Beryl Cole wonthe 54hole handicap with atotal of 210, with Baker12shots adrift.
Well done to all the winners!
Daniel Wrightwon Saturday'sdaily eventwith 71-2-69, from Darlene Baker 92-20-72 and Mitchell Atlas 82-10-72.
Squireand Andrew Laing took outthe NTPs, and the longest drives came from MalMottram and JennyHartley.
Theannual presentation nighttofollowthe championshipswas held in the evening.
It wasgreat to seesomanymembers and their families enjoying themselves.
LifemembersPeterScanlon, Andrew Clement, John Laing and Stephen Wilkins attended, and club presidentTobyClementthanked everyone forcoming along.
Aspecial commendation wasmade to Elaine Scanlon, forher manyyearsof serviceonthe committee.
CASTLEMAINE
SteadyB -grad er Pete rFarrellproduced an impres si ve 38 poi ntsf romah andica p of 17 to be theoverall winner of Sat urday'ss tablefo rd
Th erewas aremar kab le fo ur-way co untbacktod ecide the mino rplacings with four pl ayerson37points
Andrew Wi lso n( 9) edged out newc lub champio nKlai Je rmyn (1) to to pA-grade, and Tony Ol sso n(21 )with 37 wa st he Cgrad ewinn er from Owen Scott( 25) on 36 NTPswentt oL achl an Brow nand Li am O'Bri en.
Th eSaturdaymorningn ine ho le swas wo nbyC ar me lCribbes (1 7) withanexcellent1 9points.
Ru nner-u pwas Ju lieBottomleyon18, on acountba ck from Helen McEwen. De e Sa mso n, Pe ggy Ronnau andGlenda Jefferies al lhad 17
Th erewas someexcell ents co ringwhe n 36 playe rs turned out forThursday'ss ta bleford.
Ha rald Do man sk i( 16) to ok to phonours in A- grad ewith37 poi nt s, one cl earof PeterVerlaan.
Th eoverall andB-grade wi nne rwas Ja mieson Prend ergast with asplendid4 1 poi nts, fo llowe dbyRober tBarratto n4 0. NTPswentt oFrank By rn e(40 cm from the cup)and Tayle rWals h.
GISB ORNE
Gi sborn ecele brated its spect acular pen nants easonatt he golf club on Sat urdaynig ht
Th is ye ar Gi sb orne wo nthree pen nant fin als —t he NorthwestRegional Pennant, theSeniors' Re gion al Penn antand th e Victorian Golf Divisio n4Penn ant.
Bu ti twas mo re th an ce lebrating the flags wo n, it wa salsocel ebrating the club's co mpetitivene ss in th ewomen’s No rthwe st Interclub pennant, andthe wo men an djun io rpennanttea ms co mpeting onceaga in in VGApen nant. This is arema rk able reflecti on of how strong the club is becomi ng. Ni nety golfersrepresented Gi sborneinpennantt his season, with the younges tcompetitor six ye arsold
It wa sa packed co urse on Sat urday with 21 3gol fers co mpeting in th e4BBB co mpetiti on.
Town &District
GOLF results
KevinIncigneri and Kevin Ke at ing,or as the club likes to ca ll th em Keventothe Powe rof2,won wit h4 7p oi nt s.
On Th ursday, Mark Bu ckley’spenn ant caddi e, Mi chae lKaufman, wo nthe Agrade ope ncompetitio nwith 40 points.
Sh ane Wa lsh to pped B-grade with 40 po ints an dBraydnBeatie wo nthe C-grade cho co late sw ith th esame score.
Th ewomen travelled to Trentham on
We dnesdayfor the Annu al GreatDivide
Ch allen ge,w hic hb egan 32 ye arsago after aconvers at io nb et we en Trentha m's Eu nice
Ho urig an and Theresa Mi llett, of Gisborne. Trentham wo nthe closely co ntested event, averaging 28.6 points to Gisborne’s 27.2
Indiv idual winners forGisb or ne we re Bronwyn Bi shopw ho flewi na helicopte r to win A- gradewith 31points, Le anne De lavayi nB-grad ew ith36point s, and Je nnyMalbergwon Cg rade with32.
KYNETON
Theoddsare heavily stackedinfavour of youth overexperienceasthe club’s RSL si ngle smatchplayseriescomes down to the fina ltwo pl ayers.
Bi g-hi tting 20 -year-old Conn or Mu nroisthe overwh elmi ng favour ite afte rt hrash ing Kash Ka runa se na 8&6 in the semi-fina ls, whi le his oppo nenti nthe de cider,David Evans, prevailed 2&1 in a tightb attle with Ivan Smol cic.
Mu nrowill gi ve Evanstwo shots over the 18-ho le final buth as asub stantial le ngt hadvantageand rapidly improving to uch with his irons around the green s.
Th erest of the fi el dp laye dt he Mawson’s sta blefo rd co mpetiti on offw hite te es, withvisitor Ahitan aTeKur u( 2) ro mping home with atwo -under68for 40 poi nts, the frontn in efeaturing four birdie sand thebackn ine straightp ars.
He finis hed twoclear of Brad Du ncan (1 5) an dBraedenCot ting ha m(19), with Paul To bin (13) on 37 alon gsi de Pat Cl ohe sy (14), the 84-yea r-old be atinghis agefor the first time sincea long recovery from hea rt surgery and broken ribs
Je sper Hansen (4)was twooverpar and twoupo nstabl efordw ith onetoplaybefo re makin ga do uble bogey,fini shi ng on 36 alongs ide RogerBoothby(14) ,Dani el Du bens (14) and leading wo manL isaMc-
Combe (3 7).
Wh il eTeKuru led the birdie co unt, Ha nsen, Ross Foreman, Cam He ndy an d Jamie Kin ka de each ba gged apai r. NTPs we re Te Kuru,Regan Wi lliams, Thomas Be achey, Dav id Mooreand Scot tMurphy. DR GROV ES T RO PHY
Thehighlightfor women wa st he second roun doft he Dr GrovesTrophy, with the club le gend’sgranddaughte r, Ro sema ry Dowlin g( 30), notonlyo nhand to pres entt he trophybut co llecti ng the awardfor the bes ts econd -round score, a nett 70, six cl ear of Ro bMacRa e(24).
DeidreDawes (2 8) wo nthe trophyw ith nett round sof68-7 6, ah ead of defendin g champion Lorrai ne Ryan 79-79 Ann eBennett (19) wonthe ni ne-hol e stab leford wi th 19 points and Dowlin g, Mu rphya nd Be re niceSnowd en we re NTPs.
Themidweek sta bleford wa sab irdiefest forp enna nt heroSimo nRosenb erg (9) .Having struggled to pl ay to hishandicap fort wo month s, everythin gsudd enly clicked and he birdied the 4th from clos e range, th e14th with along pu tt andt he 18th with achip -in to amas s38points.
GraemeLeClezio (22)h ad six th re epoi ntersa nd afour-pointe rbut al so six singl es and lost th etop prizeoncountback. Ma rg Scoble (23) wa st he le adi ng wo man on 31.
NTPswereMunro, RayWilkinson, Ju lie Ha rris, Evans, Hu dgs on, Ra cha el Mc Andrew andNev ille Yate s.
Continuing arichvein of form, Bo ot hby romped to 21 points with abirdie on the 9th to wi nthe nine-hole Thursdaysho otout by four from Ky lie Mu nro.
LANCEF IELD
Congratulations to the wo men's pennantt eam who wonthe ir midweek semi-fin al 3-2 again st Wo ode nd and we re to playRomseyinthe final at Eu roa yesterday.
It's greattosee so me of the les sexperie nced lad ies co min gt oterms witht he co urse, with exce llents co resreturne don We dnesday. No doubtt he han dicappe r will have afield day.
Sat urday's4BBBs ta bleford on Saturday wa svery close. Pete rMcGill —Stewa rt Steven swon with 44 points from Glen
Ho lland —Jason By ron43, and Be rt Parks —Todd Lam ber t4 2.
TuesdayLegends :Gary Du dderi dge(10) 38 points, from Br uceHay (2 7) 36 points an dMcGill (9 )35.
We dnesdaywomen:Susi eKosa (46 )4 2 points from Sa mantha St rano (41) 37 and Ro sJensen( 53) 36.
ThursdayF ix: KevinMcBride(21) 36, from Ma rk Ba lla (14 )35and McGill (9 )34. TRENTHAM
Th ea nnual Gi sborne vTre nt ham wo me n' sc ha lleng ew as pla ye do n We dnesda y.
Last ye ar Gi sborne wo nthe tro phy, bu t back on our owndeck ,itwas Trenth am to the fo re with 28.6 92 to 27.260.
Trentham's A- grade winn er wa sJen Clar ke with 36 points ,fro mL iza Ca ines 30.
JulieHans on to ok outB -gra de with 38 from BevCrowl ey 36, and CarolynGarvey wo nC-grade with 34, from JoedyWallis 32.
Aterrific field of 67 turne dout fo r Thursd ay's mixed stableford Tony Carte r(11) h ad awhopping 40 p oints to topA-grade from Ro binWilson (2) 38.
In B-gra de Russ ell Ha nso n( 12)had 37 points to edge out Dav id Le e(16) on c/b, a nd JimTrevallian (19) wa sbest in C-grad e with36, fro mJames Connell (2 0) on34. WOODEND
Congratulat ions to AlexanderBrown andChris Ha le on winnin gthe fi naloft he TomSurtees pairs m atch pl ay on Saturday Th ey co mb ine dwellto defe at Anne Ro bertsand WaynePaterson 5/ 4to securethe title i none of th eclub's fe ature events It wa sa hugeday wi th pl enty of good golf played.
Mi cha elBird's41 po ints led th eway in the stab lefo rd eventacrosst hree grade s.
A— BrettMcLean(9) 36 poi nts, from Ko be Veitch (7) 34 on c/ b; B— Mi ch ae l Bi rd (17) 41, from Mi ke Bo urdie (1 5) 36 on c/b ;C —Sam De lMastro( 31)40, from Jo rd an Veitch (21)36.
Th eGeorgeDav iesmatch playbega n, with six matc hes co mplete d— setting up plenty of exci tin gb attl es inthe we eks ahe ad.
Newchamp: Daniel Wrightacceptsthe RomseyGolf ClubChampionship Shield from Margaret Mitchell.
g w i n s p o s t e d i n
M C D F N L
Campbells Creekwelcomed Navarretothe Campbells Creek Recreation Reserveinround six of the Maryborough Football NetballLeague on Saturday.
TheMagpies were still flying high from their moraleboosting win overAvoca, their first sinceJuly 2022, and were hopefulofcontinuing the positivemomentum
However, the Grasshoppershad other ideas and jumped out to afour-goal lead in the opening term.
Thesecond quarter wasa much moreevenaffair with Navarremanaging a1.4 and Creek twopoints.
At half-timethe Grasshoppersled by 36 points.
TheMagpies lifted in the thirdand kicked twogoals, but the Grasshoppersalsofound an edgeand smashed on six moregoals to lead by 60 points at the last change.
Thelast term sawbothsides striving to getontop with the Magpies bagging another three and the Grasshoppers four to win thematch by 65 points.
Best forCreek were Jack Larkin, James Haber,Daniel Klimeck, Dylan Stevens, Ryan Dzioba and Mitchell Stevens. Harcourt playedhost to top-of-the-table Carisbrook on Saturdayatthe den.
TheRedbacks got outtoanearly lead kicking twogoals to oneinthe opening term and had afour-pointadvantage at quarter-time.
TheLions kicked twomoretoCarisbrook's1.2 in the second to turn the tables and hold afive-pointleadathalf-time.
Thethirdterm descended into areal scrap as both sides tried to gain the upper hand. Harcourt kicked 1.6 and the Redbacks 1.1 to seeHarcourt eightpointsupgoing into the final term.
TheLions threw everythingtheyhad into the final term kicking another 3.2 and holding Brook to one straightkick and run out winnersby22points.
Best forthe Lions were Billy Quirk, Jordan Gartside, Mark Noonan, Josh Taig, Cameron Anderson, Thomas Walters.
Thewin sees the Lions snatch topspotfromthe Redbacks who have dropped to third.
Trentham has jumped into second spotonthe ladder aftera percentage-boosting win over adetermined Maldon.
TheSaints opened their accountwith anine-goal haul in the first term, while holding the Dons to asolitary point.
They continued to dominate in the second and third terms, leading by 144 points by the final change. Maldon dug in their heels in the final term and kicked twogoals, but the Saints kicked another nine in replyto win by amassive188 points.
Jake Keoghbagged8and James Regan 6, other top contributorswereJye Adamson, Joel Cowan, Zachary Gervasoni, Harrison Knightand Dylan Holden.
Best forthe valiantDons were Noah Thompson, Darcy Kelly,MatthewGray, Damian Wust, Liam Rielleyand Tate Webb.
In other matches Dunolly lost to Lexton by 39 points, NatteBealiba lost to Maryborough Giants by 17 points and Talbot posted ablistering 132 pointwin overAvoca. Newstead had the bye.
This weekend
In this weekend'sround sevenmatches, Newstead hosts Maryborough Giants, Avoca tackles Dunolly,Maldonw welcomes Natte Bealiba, Navarreversus Talbot,Harcourt facesTrentham and Carisbrook takes on Campbells Creek. Lexton has the bye.
Winnersare grinnersincroquet pennant
It hasbeen another exciting week in the Northern District Croquet Association autumnpennant, with someteams confirmed forthe finals, and othersinstrong positions. In Division 1/2, going into the last round of the round robin, therewerefour teams in Block Aall with twowins –and theywere all playing each other.The winnerswouldgo straightintothe finalsplayoffs. TheQuarry Hill Ravens (Robert Couttsand Romana Rawlings)wereable to secureanarrowwin overKynetonBlue (Len Bakerand Darryl Chivers) with three games each but winning by just 36-33 hoops. Coutts had an outstanding win overBaker 7-1, which setthe Ravens up forthe hoops win and adefinite placeinthe finals.
In the other BlockAgame, the Quarry Hill Robins (Nick Quirk and Trevor Ware) were toostrongall round forCastlemaine (Graham Smith and SteveDuffy), winning 4-2 games and 37-22 hoops, including an amazing 7-0 singles win to Quirk over Duffy This wasenough forthe Robins to bump Castlemaine out of the toptwo in the Block
and to qualifyfor thepreliminary finals in twoweeks' time
Thefinalists in BlockB arealso nowconfirmed, even though one match in the round is still to be played. That's because Golden/ Maldon (Alan Breen andGary Dykes) are currently undefeated on three wins, and so will definitely be one of the toptwo teams, it'sjust aquestion of first or second in the Block. In theother match, twoQuarry Hill teams foughtitout forthatcritical third win. TheQHGalahs (Bernie Lacey andBarry Lovell) scored whatlookedlikea solid win 4-2 games overcurrent NDCA pennant champions the QH Wattlebirds (Chris Eiffert and Gayle Deary), but four of those games were won/lost 7-6 on the final hoop. It was avery even match, and just enough to put the Galahs into the toptwo forfinals. It could have gone either way.
Afterthe remaining Golden/Maldon matchisplayed, the toptwo teams in each Block will be ranked on number of wins, games wonand hoops wonifnecessary, and start the playoffs in twoweeks time.
Thetop tworanked teams will geta second chanceinthe finals.
It wasalso acritical round forDivision 3teams, and severalare nowsitting pretty fora finals berth, despite still one morefull round to playinDivision 3. In BlockA,the Quarry Hill Parrots(Chris Scottand Kim Webb)are definitely in the finals with four wins, but it wasa close run thing this week. They drew 3-3 games against ladder leaders the Maldon Maples (Chris Cooper and Ann Metz), winning by just one hoop 33-32. Butit'snot overyet forthe Maples; in the final round, theyplayGolden Sq uareBlue (Jill Gibbon and PietaMcLean)who areyet to have amatch win, so theyshould secure four winsalso. However, Golden Square Gold (Nigel Gaul and KathyMontgomery) arealso still in it on threewins. They had a4-2 win over their GS Blue stablemates this round, buttheir task next week will be tougher,taking on the BlockA leadersthe QH Parrots. That second slotinBlock A could come downtogames wonand maybe even hoops scored.
Thetwo leadersfromBlock Bare now unassailable on four wins each, despite one round still to be played. Thetop-ofthe-ladder Golden SquareShooters (Lyn Breen and Mark James)weretoo good this week forthe Quarry Hill Kangaroos (Victoria Gibson and ColinHofton),winning 5-1 games and 39-20 hoops. In abattlefor thatsecond Block Bslot, Eaglehawk (Elaine Bakerand John Bartlett) scored their critical fourth win, quashing the hopes of fellow contendersKynetonGreen (JennySymons andDavid Laird) by 4-2 games. Butitwas close –Kynetonlost three of those games by 6-7 and finishedwithmorehoops scored than Eaglehawk. Butit'sthe games wonthat counts and Eaglehawk have nowlocked in thatsecond finals slot.
Thereare just afew positions forthe finals still to be determined, giving the last fewmatches in the next round thatextra significance. Every hoop counts, as that may determine team ranking and whether teams in the topfour in their division geta second chanceinthe finals.
TheCastlemaine Football Netball Club'sWomen's and Under 18 football sides tackled WhiteHills in an AFL Central Vic double header at the Camp ReserveonSunday.
TheUnder 18 Girls were first to hit the park against the Demons.
WhiteHills were on the boardearly with agoal and the Magpies trailed by sevenpoint at quarter time.
TheMagpies snatched one back in the second, but the Dees kicked twomoretolead by 16 points at half time.
TheDemons continued to dominate in the second half
kicking three moregoals to the Magpies one to win thelow scoring affairby26points.
Goal kickersfor Castlemaine were Isobelle Pratt and Ava Bartlett
Best were ShelbyKitchingman, Olivia Muscat, Kate Batchelor,Tegan Barry,Isobelle Prattand Aaliyah Greenwell.
TheMagpies arecurrently sitting in fifth spotand will look to jump back onto the winnerslist when theyhit the road to face Echuca United this Sunday.
TheMagpies and Demons both cameintothe Women's match offthe back of wins and
hungry formore.
Castlemaine snapped two goals in the opening term and kept the Demons scoreless.
TheMagpies snatched two moreinthe second term and held the visitorstoasolitary pointtohavea32pointadvantageathalftime.
TheDemons lifted their intensity in the thirdterm, applying plentyofpressureon the Magpies and finally gota goal on the board. TheMagpies also kicked another major to remain 33 points up at the final change.
TheMagpies puttheir foot down in the last quarter slam-
ming on another three goals and keeping WhiteHills scoreless to win by acomfortable 53 points.
Goal kickerswereGeorgia Gordon 3, Jemma Finnings 2, Tiahna Cochrane, Eillish Cumming and Grace Brady Best forthe Magpies were Eillish Cumming, Taylah Sartori, Tiahna Cochrane, Georgia Gordon, Jemma Finning and Maddi Brackenreg.
TheMagpies sit in second spottrailing Golden Squareon percentage. This Sundaythe Magpies will host the Bendigo Women's side at Camp Reserve at 1pm.
Interleague on Saturday
It's almost here! Thebig interleague clashes between the Bendigoand Ovens and Murray leagues takeplace this Saturday, May 23.
TheQueen Elizabeth Oval in Bendigowill come aliveasthe topplayers in these twoold established leagues do battle in football and netball.
There're fivematches altogether,and the BendigoLeague hopes there'splenty of spectatorsupport shown as thevery best in netball and football talentcometoshowtheir skills.
Both leagues have had squads in training forseveral weeks.
Senior football takes pride of placeonthe QEOfrom2.20pm.
Open netball, featuring some outstanding players,getsunder wayat2.30pm
Thefirst matchis 15 &Under netball beginning at 11.15am.
Under 18s kick offtheir football battle at noon.
The17 &Under netballersare in action from 12.45pm.
Entry is via the ViewStreetgateonly,with adult admission $15, and concession pension $10.
TheBFNL'ssenior football lineup from an initial squad of 53 is to be announced early this week
ThenextBFNL roundofmatches will be playedonSaturday, May30.
Onematch forfeited
Thereweretwo matchesscheduled in the sixth roundofRiddellDistrict women's football on Saturdayevening. Only one took place
Riddell forfeited to unbeatenladder leader Macedon, and Lancefield kept MountAlexander Falcons scoreless at Tigerland. Lancefield heartened their supporterswith a12.13 (85) to 0.0(0) victory Harmony Cassar,Sarah Turner and Harriet Ziedaitis eachkickedthreegoals, and the side's best players were Turner,Esme Keen, CaitlynAger, Luzanne de Koch, KaylaAzidis and Lilly Bromley
Best players forFalcons were notsupplied. This Friday, the round six matchesare Macedonv MountAlexander Falcons at 5pm, and Lancefield vRiddellat7pm.
RDFNLgames
Thesixth round of Riddell District Football NetballLeague matches on Saturday are: KynetonvRomsey. Gisborne Giants vWallan. Melton South vMacedon. Woodend-Hesket vRiddell. DiggersRest vMelton Centrals. Lancefield abye
Asee-sawwin forthe Bulldogs
Gisborne senior footballershad to work hardtoaccountfor 2025 premiersEaglehawk by sevenpoints on Saturday.
The14.18 (102) to 14.11 (95) at Gardiner Reservewas just whatthe Bulldogs needed with this weekend offfor the Bendigo versus Ovensand Murray League,then a percentage-boosting game against cellardweller Broadford on May30.
At presentGisborne is in fourth place on the ladder and scraping home against Castlemaine by apointfollowedbythe courageous effort against Eaglehawk has been really importantasthereisuncertainty overwhich sides will be in contention in September
South Bendigoisontop of the ladder afterdemolishing aSandhurst side hit hard by injury
Gi sborne is lurking in fo urt hp lac e, but as St ra th fieldsa ye sho we do nS at urda y, am at ch ag ai ns tB ro adfordc ould chang e positions th ro ugh massiv ep erce nt ag e gains. Wh en Broad fo rd en te re dt he Be ndig o Le ague fo rt his season th erew eres ome sc ep ticism abou tt he side being co mpe titiv e, and these co nc erns areg ro wing af te rStr at hf ieldsa ye's ma ss iv e3 6.21 to 2.2 mar gin on Sat urda y.
At Ga rd iner Re serv e, the Bu lldo gs kicked early go al s, an da th al f- time held a 24-poin ta dv an tag e. Ea gleha wk has some qualit yp la ye rs , and in the thirdt erm the yr amm ed home 7.2 to 1.3.
Th et hree-quart er time co uld no tc ome quick enou gh fo rt he Bu lldo gs.
To their credit, th erew as ag ener al lift and ur ge do nb yt he home ground crowd , the 'D og sd omina te dp ossessions and sur ge dt ot he le ad.
Th ef inal sc orew as 14.18 (102) to 14.11 (95), the visit or sf ailing to sc orea go al in the last te rm.
Th erew as qualit yi nt he best pla ye rs fo rt he Bu lldo gs —Jam es Gra y, cap tain Za cVesc ov i, Br ad Be rnacki, Dy lan Jo hnst one, Za cD enah ya nd Pa tM cKenna who to ps co re dw ith fo ur go al s.
Ea gleha wk wa sb est serv ed by Callum He at h, Bi lly Ev an s, Be nT ho mp so n, Ba ile y Il sle y, Jo el Mu llan and Ni ck Th omp son.
Ea rlier in the da y, Gi sborne Un der 18s gained their sec ond win fo rt he season, kicking 14.5 to 5.7.
Gi sborne Re serv es re main winless,
bea te nb y3 3p oin ts, but su re ly aw in lies ahead against Broadfordo nMay 30. ONE-SIDED IN NETBALL
Gisborne's netball fortunes continued to rise, with decisivewins in most matches on Saturday.
Theonly close game wasinthe 17 &Under section, with theoutcome a42-42 tie. In A-grade, Gisborne thrashed Eaglehawk 60-33 to consolidate in the topfour
Theother Gisborne victories were In A-Reserve(45-36), B-grade (61-30) and BReserve(63-32).
TheGisborne club wishes its representatives well in the interleague matches against Ovensand Murray League in Bendigothis Saturday.
Next season the Bulldogs arehopeful of being able to playinthe Ballarat League
TheMagpie Senior Women’s side had astrong win overthe Demons.Eillish Cumming wasamong the best. Photo:Max Lesser.
Freshhopefor flagcontenders
Bill West
There'srenewedhope forRiddell League football premiership contendersafter Saturday'ssixth round of matches.
DiggersRest had seemingly rocketedtofavouritism, butthe scenario changed when second-placed Wallan slammed on sevenlast term goalstoupset the topside by 26 points.
Kynetonhad aday out at theShowgrounds, lifting confidence with 25 goalsand amassive124-pointmargin oversixth-placed Melton Centrals
Playing coachEthan Foreman turned the clockback with seven majorsinamatch wherethe Tigers dominatedtolead 13.8 to 1.3 at half-time.
Percentagecould playanimportantrole in regardtoteams obtaining adoublechancethis season.
Seemingly the currenttop fiveteams arelikely to be thereatthe end of the home and away games.
BIGWIN FORCATS
"It'sthe first time we'vewon overherefor 12 years,"Macedon coach Al Meldrumsaidafter third-placed Macedon had abig win overRomsey.
He wasparticularly pleased withthe efforts of some of the side's younger players,with Michael Rutledge kicking six goalsand Ronan YowYeh turning in his best game this season.
BlakeWatsoncontinued his fine form as well.
TheRedbacks struggled to kick just one goal in thefirst half,with the final score17.15 (117) to 7.12 (54).
Coach Nathan Blair, Jack Jedwab and Joshua Crumpwereagain listed in the topthree forthe home side.
Wallan's 17.9 to 13.7 win overDiggers Rest wasa primetalking pointaround the competition on Saturdaynight.
TheBurras aceforward, Callum Moore, kicked 15 goalsagainst Gisborne Giants sevendaysearlier but the Magpies' defenderskept him well in check.
With apopulation explosion occurring in theWallanarea, the town's football-netball club seemslikely to become even stronger both on and offthe field in thefuture.
Riddell led by 33 points at half-timeagainst Melton South, but the visitorsfoughtback in the thirdterm before the Bombersregained composure to win 13.12 (90) to 8.5 (53).
BryceWilliamson continued his fine ball-winning form, ruckman Josh Grabham playedwell,and the mercurial ZakSaad kicked another fivemajors.
Therewas only three points the differenceinthe Lancefield versus Woodend-Hesket matchathalf-time.
TheHawks lifted their game in the second half and went to gain their second win forthe season, 16.13 (109) to 9.8 (62).
ONE-SIDED MATCHES
Therewereseveral very one-sided Under 19.5 and Reserves matches on Saturday.
In the U19.5s, Woodend-Hesket outclassed Lancefield by 113 points, Kynetondemolished Melton Centrals by 98 points, and Macedon defeated Romsey by 68 points.
TopReserves side Macedon overran Romsey by 126 points, Lancefield Reserves defeated Woodend-Hesket by 59 points, and KynetonReserves went down to Melton Centrals by 54 points.
In contrast, Riddell Reserves wonbyfivepoints, and Wallan edged out DiggersRest by apoint.
Harry Ryan in action forthe Tigers. Photo: Sophie McLeod
Ethan Raynor wasone of Kyneton’sbest players on Saturday. Photo: Sophie McLeod
Bulldogsdown Wedgies at Woodend
It wasa wet-weatherrematchatWoodend on Sunday, with the Wedge-Tailed Eagles taking on the top-of-the-ladder Golden Squareafter their Round 3clash earlier in the season.
With multiple keydefendersunavailable and primary ruckHateleysidelined through injury,the Eagles needed afull teameffort
Bill West
to challengea strong Bulldogs outfit.
TheEagles had anumber of standout performersthroughout the match, with first-year playerDemi Henderson continuing her outstanding form through the midfield. Shewas well supported by Ainslie and Murphy, who applied strong pressure to the Bulldogs all game.
Gajic’s tackling pressurewas relentless throughoutthe day, with the umpires rewarding her fierce competitiveness around the stoppages.
Thebackline onceagain sawplentyof action and stood up strongly under pressure, withAisha Mansfield delivering some excellentkick-outs while Lenius continu-
Plenty in contention
Wi th six ro unds co mp le te d, therea re still seve nt eams in the huntfor as poti n the 2026 Ri ddell Le ag ue A- grade ne tball finals.
Topteam Wallan is the only unbeaten contender,and sixth and seventh-placed Macedon and Kynetoncannotberuledout.
In Saturday's round, reigning premiers Woodend-Hesket came from behind with asparkling last quarter to inflictthe first defeat of the season on Lancefield.
Lifemember KellieDuff took over the Hawks' coaching duties in theabsenceofTy Coppinger,sidelined forone matchfor rough conduct against Macedon in the previous round.
Woodend-Hesket prevailed 49-43 outscoring the home side 15-8 in the final term.
Emily Fitzgerald, Mackenzie Svendsen and HayleyRogerswerelisted as the Hawks' best, and Kaylia Stantonfinished with 41 goals.
MiaDaly,Bella Collodetti and Shanae Brundell (25 goals) were Lancefield'stop three.
TheTigerswon their B-grade match 7129, with Tarnee Hammond landing 66 goals.
At Romsey,sixth-placed A-grade side Macedon led throughout fora convincing 59-41 victory,with Henrietta Donoghue on targetwith49goals. TheRedbacks arestill seeking their first win this season.
KYNETON GOING WELL
Kynetonwon four of its fivematches on
Saturday, andthe A-gradersseem revitalised with the inclusion of star defender Kristiana Manu'aand EllieBird, who threw 65 goalsin the 69-48 victory over Melton Centrals Bird,withfine credentials in NewZealand and elsewhere, wasPlayerofthe Round the previous Saturday.
Fourth-placed Riddell went on ascoring spree in apercentage-boosting 96-35 performanceagainst bottom side Melton South, and the BombersgotoWoodend this Saturdayfor areal test.
Amelia Haxbywas in fine form again, ShelbyHolterscored46goals and teenager Tilly Allen 35 to follow up her 37 in the earlier 19&Under match.
Second-placed Gisborne Giants had the bye andplayWallan this Saturday.
Despitethe loss, theEagles took plenty of positivesawayfromthe game, showing significantimprovementfromtheir previous meeting with Golden Square. They’ll look to build on thatmomentum heading into this Sunday’sclash against Marong at
Tamika Bishop in actionfor Macedon. Photo: Fances Noonan
Set on agenerous 1,013m² (approx.) allotment, this beautifully maintained home is surrounded by lush, established gardens offering privacy,shade and a peaceful retreat forfamily liv ing. Inside, twoseparate liv ing areas prov ide flexibility,withthe open-plan kitchen, dining and liv ing zone flowing seamlessly to arear terrace and expansivebackyard.
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1001NIGHTS!
Inventi Ensemble
Sun 7thJune10.00am
Step intoaworld of magic ,adventure andmystery as Scheherazade begins herincredible tales from the1001 Nights.
Family-f riendly event
TheArt of Close Harmony
Melbourne Octet
Sat 6th June2.30pm
An afternoon of closeharmony jazz of thehighest calibre, presentingfinely crafted arrangements to create arefined and excitingsoundworld.
An Evening with theChris Johnstone/Mat
Jodrell Quartet
Fri5th June7.30pm
Both renowned figures in Melbourne’s vibrant jazz scene, they will deliver acaptivating program of beloved classic standards.
Ensemble Area 57
Victoria College of the Arts SecondaryStudents VCEStudent Ensemble
Sun 7thJune2.15pm
AREA 57 is adynamic collectiveofyoung musicians whose performancescombine theenergyofajazztrio —piano, double bass, drum kit—with the richness of classical cello.
UpLIFT
AffinityQuartet
Variations and Remembrance
Seraphim Trio
Mon 8th June1.30pm
Seraphim Trio commissioned nine Australian composerstoeachwrite avariation on aSchubertWaltz.For this concert, they have selectedfour variations. The PianoTrioinAminor by Tchaikovskyisthe monumental main course of theprogram, written in memory of his close friend,pianist Nicholas Rubinstein.
JacquelineOgeil plays Albero
Sat 6th June12.00pm
This performance of 18C Spanish composer Sebastián de Albero’s14 sonatas is an Australian premiere. Every sonata is apolished andhighly original gem that plays with thebeginningsofa newclassical style.
TwoVisions of the Sonata: Lisztand Kouvaras
CoadyGreen
Sun7th June12.15pm
Internationally awardwinningpianist Coady Green placestwo epic worksindialogue across centuries, cultures, and worlds.
Mon 8th June11.30pm
Theprogram title is aplay on thetitle of aworkby
American-Japanese composer andcellist Paul Wiancko (b.1983). AffinityQuartetbrings oneofthe first performances in Australia with LIFT,his 2016 stringquartet.
OperaUnmasked: Arias and Anecdotes -SOLD OUT
TheT-ShirtOperaCompany
Sun 7thJune7.00pm | Dinner &Concert
OperaUnmasked is designed to demystifythe artformand open it up to newaudiences. Enjoycomedic anecdotes about thecomposersand the plots, together with someofopera’sbest lovedarias, as we unmask thestories behindthe songs.
Words& Ideas
TheMarriageGame
TheHighly StrungPlayers
Sat 6th June5.45pm
Three plays by PeterRose: TheOnesAfter Them
TheOne We’veBeen
TalkingAbout |The One BeforeThat
TheHighly StrungPlayers, an absurdist troupe founded by author Peter Rose, returns to the WoodendWinter Arts Festival with three short plays from Rose’s six-part series TheOnes.
We do what must be done: preach to the converted
David Marr- SOLD OUT Sat 6th June10.30am
Sheila Drummond Memorial Lecture
Keepingold ideas alive is oneofthe great challenges we face as we’re bombarded with thefears andlies of contemporary discourse.
SomeofAustralia’s most accomplished writers, journalists andacademics hold discussions on topics that impactour countryand theworld.
Visions of Beethoven
Christopher Menz
Sun 7thJune10.00am
Howhaveimages of Beethoven been used to promotethis most celebrated of composers? Through prints andportrait busts in thenineteenth century, to themovies of thetwentieth andtwentyfirst centuries, we explore Beethoventhrough images andobjects andhow he hasbeen presented forcultural andpolitical purposes.
AI is masquerading as human: howcan we respond?
Alan Finkel
Sun 7thJune11.30am
In this talk,Alan Finkel will consider howwecan defendour innateright to theinformation that will allowustochoosehuman.
AI, cul tureand theself
Anna Goldsworthy Mon 8th June10.00am
In theforthcomingissue of the QuarterlyEssay, Anna Goldsworthy explores the implications of AI forart,culture andthe self howitforcesa conf rontation with what it means to be human, raisingquestions about human connection, learningand howweliveour lives; andbringingnew existential andethical risks. Anna shares herperspectivesonthis complex issue liveinconversation with JacquelineOgeil
Look after your feet (andother things)
Rosalie Ham
Mon 8th June1.00pm
RosalieHam,author of The Dressmaker,unveils herfirst foray intonon-fiction. Rosalie shares herobservations on ageingwith mischief anda healthydose of perspective.
ThePowerof Community
Hugh Mackay Sat 6th June1.00pm
Drawingonthemesf rom his most recent twobooks, TheWay We Are and Just Saying,Hughwillexplore thesocial trends that have been reshapingour society, erodingsocial cohesion andleadingtoepidemics of loneliness, anxietyand depression. He will argue that kindness is notjust ‘a nicethingtodo’;it’sactually aspecies survival skill.
ThePowerofPicture Booksand Poetry for YoungPeople
MaxineBenebaClarke Sat 6th June3.00pm
Suitable forages 5-12. MaxineBenebaClarketakes us through someofher belovedbooksoffiction and poetryfor younger children.
