Midland Express Tuesday 20 December 2022

Rural land plan axed

Councillors voted unanimously in support of arecommendation not to progress the strategy last week following 177 community submissions.

The strategy proposed aswathe of rural land changes including rezoning large areas of farmland that would restrict primary producers who wish to diversify their agricultural focus.

Farmers who united against the changes to form the Macedon Ranges Agriculture Alliance are relieved at the council’s decision, said chairperson James Walsh.

“The MRAA did not think the strategy was the right thing for the shire. Members are ecstatic with the news that it will not proceed in its current form,” he said.

“We’re pleased that the council has listened to the community feedback. If the council can continue to work with landholders we will be able to develop improvements.

“We’ve got beautiful environment and landscapes in the Macedon Ranges and the MRAA understands the strong focus on protection but it cannot be at aloss to existing farming. We are in astrong position for food production but we need to do it in abalanced way. One can’t outweigh the other.”

The

Councillors struggled to back the draft strategy for community

Macedon Ranges Agriculture Alliance chairperson James Walsh says a strong focus on environmental protection in the shire is needed but it shoulld be balanced with the protection of existing farming

Macedon Ranges Shire Council has axed its controversial draft Rural Land Use Strategy.

strategy had also proposed rezoning other pockets of rural conservation to farm land and introduction of arural activity zone that would allow for accommodation, restaurants and convenience stores. This zone was earmarked for land in the shire’s northeast between Woodend, Tylden and Malmsbury.

consultation in 2021 with asplit 5-4voteinfavour of its release following four years of development. At the time, some councillors identified what they called “glaring mistakes” in the document.

Bridge backonagenda

Jade Jungwirth

The highly controversial Froomes Road Bridge is once again on the agenda of tonight’s Mount Alexander Shire Council meeting.

At the beginning of 2020 the council resolved to award the contract for the bridge’s replacement, but after receiving negative feedback from residents and apetition with 1300 signatures, the council temporarily suspended awarding the contract.

By April 2021 the matter was again taken to councillors for approval. Councillor Gary McClure for Castlemaine Ward declared a conflict of interest, leaving six councillors to vote. After ahungvote, the motion was carried by mayor Tony Cordy’s casting vote.

Of interest, Cr Rosie Annear, who is now mayor, voted in favour of the construction of anew two-lane bridge.

Alarge number of residents formed Froomes Road Action Group to fight to keep the current bridge.

Member Ian Edwards told the Express there had been alot of ill feeling about the bridge.

“We thought we’d won,” he said.

“Council voted against building atwolane bridge, but didn’t vote for aone-lane bridge. This was afailure in their process.”

Since 2021 anumber of studies have been undertaken on behalf of the council, including community consultation, further inspections, traffic studies, an ecological study and aheritage study.

The bridge, which is estimated to have originally been built in 1873 (with areplacement of the superstructure in the 1970s), has been assessed and found to have no notable heritage significance.

“This area of Castlemaine is special, next to the botanical gardens and with a

150-year-old wall beside it,” Ian said.

Another member of FRAG, Tamasine Dale, said the bridge was an important part of the historic botanical gardens precinct.

“A new two-lane bridge would see much more traffic and heavier and larger trucks in this small pocket of Castlemaine, adversely affecting the history and amenity of the area and impacting the flora and fauna,” Tamasine said.

The council officer’s report recommends that council approves the replacement of Froomes Road Bridge with atwo-lane bridge as well as approving various pedestrian and road safety measures.

Acouncil representative has told the Express they had intensively engaged with the local community around the next steps for the bridge and commissioned appropri-

ate technical studies.

“The results of these have been presented to councillors to assist them in making an informed decision, and were made available to the public alongside the agenda for the meeting of council,” the spokesperson said.

Also, of interest, the council placed an advertisement in The Age on December 10, 2022 seeking tenders for bridge repairs at Froomes Road in Castlemaine, closing on January 31 2023. When queried about the advertisement, the council advised that the tender was for immediate maintenance works to the bridge and not for any longterm planning.

So, the question remains –whatwill be the outcome of this evening’s meeting? One lane or two?

Membersofthe Froomes Road Action Group are urging council to restore the Froomes Road Bridgeorreplace it with aone-lane structure.

Ruralland plan axed

From page 1

Last week, the council’s recommendations noted that asignificant amount of background work, research and community feedback had been captured as part of developing the draft strategy, which sought to update the shire’s inaugural 2002 Rural Land Strategy.

Council also noted that astate government review –the Planning for lbourne’sGreen Wedgeand Strategic Agricultural Land project –and certain bushfire considerations both remained unresolved, potentially overlapping some parts of the strategy.

Mayor Annette Death said it was pleasing

to see the high level of engagement from the community on the strategy, with council being thorough and considered in its review.

“I’d like to thank everyone involved for their input and note that this will form invaluable feedback and research for any future work,” she said.

“We acknowledge that the strategy will no longer proceed, particularly while there is still work happening beyond our scope that could ultimately impact it going forward.”

Any future work on rural land use and development would be progressed as a new project, and would be subject to council approval as part of any future Council Plan and/or budget process.

Boundarychange sparks debate

Romsey farmland will be re-subdivided, against planning advice, to move alot boundary that sliced through an existing house.

Owners of the 49-hectare property at Moffats Lane sought the change to contain the house within one lot and assist with succession planning. One lot would contain 20.63ha while the other would be 28.22ha.

While seen as a“common sense” move by some, the application sparked council debate about future use and intent for the land.

Macedon Ranges Shire Council planning officers advised against the application stating it would “result in inappropriate fragmentation of rural land and fails to consolidate lots in rural zones”.

Officers advised the move would “not result in the facilitation or enhancement of the

ongoing primary use of the land for productive agriculture and will result in adwelling excision outcome which policy discourages”.

They said the proposal was contrary to the purpose and decision guidelines of the Farming Zone in relation to the protection and retention of productive agricultural land.

Councillors against the proposal argued that succession planning of the farm was not aplanning ground for council to make a decision while otherssaid it was an opportunity to support and maintain farming.

Acondition of the application wasa173 agreement to ensure farming would continue on the property into the future.

Adivision recorded councillors in favour of granting the permit were Crs Bonanno, Neil, Pearce, Ridgeway and West. Those against were Crs Anderson, Death, Guthrie and Moore.

Firefighting and parenthood

Newham Fire Brigade has an open-door policy when it comes to volunteering and its members are going above and beyond to welcome ayoung family into the brigade.

The Rush family are Newham’s newest volunteers and their baby Jack is also getting involved.

Renee Rush grew up in Newham and has recently moved back to the area with her husband Conal and young son Jack. They wanted to get involved in the community by joining the local brigade.

“We moved back to the area because of the sense of community,” Renee said.

“Now that we’re raising our own family, we knew this was the lifestyle we wanted for Jack.”

Since returning to Newham, Renee said she’d seen a change in the community, with more young families living in the area.

“People are moving here for atree change and adifferent lifestyle, but coming from Melbourne the idea of CFA is foreign to some,” she said.

Renee is all too familiar with the importance of CFA in a rural area though, with her dad Graeme being an active member of the Newham Fire Brigade for 35 years.

“Dad was big supporter of CFA, he loved the fire brigade and spent afair amount of time there,” she said.

While she’s on parental

leave, Renee and Conal thought it was perfect timing for them to start their own volunteering journey.

Having recently become a mum, Renee wasn’t sureshe would be able to balance her parenting duties with the training required to become afirefighter.

“I felt alittle awkward at first, as Iwasn’t sure if Icould take Jack with me. But they said it was not aproblem, just to bring him down.

“If we weren’t able to take Jack down there, it would only be my husband volunteering, which would have been disappointing as it’s really special to follow in my dad’s footsteps.”

With both of Jack's parents busy with the practical aspects of training, Captain Bryan Hornbuckle has often found himself with some extra duties.

“They were practising down at Hanging Rock one weekend and had baby Jack with them, so Ibaby-satand took him for a walk to watch the kangaroos,” he said.

Bryan said the brigade didn’t have alarge number of operational members, with some people moving away from the area recently they were abit lighton.

Having new members like Renee and Conal will see an increase in the brigade’s operational capability.

“We did aletter drop inviting the community to our brigade open day. We had agoodre-

FDP to begin

While members of CFA brigades across the region are preparing for the bushfire season, CFA and shire councils are urging the community to use common sense and take responsibility for preventing fires.

Victoria is one of the most fire-prone areas in the world and bushfires and grassfires are apart of life. They start quickly, often without warning and can threaten lives and properties within minutes.

All Victorians need to know how to plan for and respond to fire and other emergencies.

Now is the time for landowners to prepare their property ahead of the introduction of the Fire Danger Period.

The location, type and ongoing maintenance of vegetation within aproperty can significantly reduce the impact of abushfire on any house.

By removing fine fuels now, you may contribute to how afire impacts your property and reduce the potential of ember attack.

Anywhere embers can lodge or enter your house can start afire and in order to reduce the impact of embers there are some important building improvements that are recommended. For those on the land, don’t forget that fire management planning on farms involves protecting your assets and your people.

FDP DECLARED

The Fire Danger Period for Mount Alexander Shire begins at 1am on Wednesday December 28, 2022, and for Macedon Ranges it begins at 1am on Monday January 9, 2023.

Ensure you visit the CFA website and sign up to MyCFA to get local information on how to plan and prepare for fires and other emergencies in your area. By subscribing to MyCFA, you will be kept up to date with the latest resources to keep you, your family and your home safe based on where you live in Victoria.

Additional information on property preparation can be found by visiting www.cfa.vic. gov.au/plan-prepare/how-to-prepare-yourproperty

sponse, with around 40 people coming down to the station," Bryan said.

“A few people with young kids expressed an interest in joining, saying they mightjoin when the kids areolder.

“But there’s nothing that says youcan’t bringyour kids down; Ibroughtmine down and now they’re all captains.

Bryan joked about getting kids to the station when they’re young.

“They’ll either be terrified of yellows and trucks or they’ll become aCFA brat and you won’t beable to keep them away –they’re either one or the other!”

Bryan has advice for other brigades. “Try to be flexible. Don’t be too staid in whatyou do. We’ve shown how easy it is

to be flexible.

“As asmall brigade, this isa good way to increase our membership and get people trained up as operational firefighters.”

Renee agreed and said the more volunteers there were, the less reliance there was on the select few brigade members. She also spoke about the individual benefits of volunteering.

“Having achild cansometimes rob parents oftheir independence,” shesaid “Being amemberof the brigade gives agreat sense of independence while being treated as anequal.

“It also gives you skills your children will beproud of,while teaching them to become familiar with the first responders in the community.”

Motel Accommodated Coach Tours

‘Pick up and return to your home’ Request the itineraryfor the many tour highlights

FLINDERS RANGES

BROKEN HILL –HAHNDORF

9daysTuesday 14th March $3990

KANGAROO ISLAND

6daysTuesday 28th March $2950

YARRA VALLEY –MARYSVILLE MELBOURNE

6daysTuesday 11th April $2880

NORFOLK ISLAND (NO PASSPORT REQUIRED) 10 days Thursday 20th April $5970

BRIGHT IN AUTUMN 6daysThursday 4th May $2590

SYDNEY AND THE BLUE MOUNTAINS 8daysThursday 11th May $4120

CAPE YORK AND THURSDAY ISLAND 10 days Sunday 21st May $6150

CAIRNS, THE GULF,BIRDSVILLE, MARREE &FLINDERS RANGES 24 days Thursday 8th June $11,990

CAIRNS, LONGREACH, MAGNETIC ISLAND &BARRIER REEF 12 days Thursday 8th June $6710

CAIRNS &THE GULF COUNTRY INC BIRDSVILLE 16 days Friday 16th June $8380

SPLENDID SINGAPORE 10 days Thursday 6th July $7590

NORTHWESTER &SOUTH WEST COAST 47 days Monday 24th July $21,190

DARWIN VIA CENTRAL AUSTRALIA 15 days Monday 24th July $8590

COOBER PEDY, AYERS ROCK, ALICE SPRINGS 9daysMonday 24th July $5540

WEST COAST,KIMBERLEY & SOUTH WEST COAST 35 days Saturday 5th August $15,850

WEST COAST AND THEKIMBERLEY 23 days Saturday 5th August $11,665

DARWIN TO BROOME AND THE KIMBERLEY 12 days Saturday 5th August $7730

BROOME TO PERTH INCLUDING TOM PRICE &NINGALOO REEF

14 days Monday 14th August $7790

PERTH AND SOUTH WEST COAST 15 days Friday 25th August $6830

CAPE YORK AND THURSDAY ISLAND 10 days Sunday 10th September $6150

CANBERRA “FLORIADE”

6daysSunday24th September $2725

TASMANIA

10 days Monday 2nd October $5190

VIETNAM 17 days Thursday 12th October $7980

NEW ZEALAND DISCOVERY

17 days Sunday 29th October $8890 SAPPHIRE COAST

9daysThursday 16th November $3990

Jack with his mum, Renee

Photo: Valerie Hornbuckle

CLASSOF2022

Braemar College

Dux: Heather Sutherland

ATAR: 99.95

Subjects: English Language, Psychology, Chemistry, Maths Methods, French, Visual Communication Design.

2023 plans: Science or biomedicine majoring in neuroscience at the University of Melbourne.

Girton Grammar

Dux: Dhruv Gupta ATAR: 99.8

Subjects: Chemistry, English Language, Mathematical Methods, Mathematics Specialist, Physics.

2023 plans: Science (Chancellor’s Scholars) at the University of Melbourne.

Kyneton High School

Dux: Hannah McGrath ATAR: 85.95

Subjects: English, Further Maths, Biology, Health and Human Development, Legal Studies and Business Management. 2023 plans: Further study in health.

Dux Proximus: Madeline Coates ATAR: 97.80

Subjects: Chemistry, Maths Methods, Specialist Math, English and Mathematics Extension with the University of Melbourne.

2023 plans: Medicine at either James Cook University or LaTrobeUniversity.

Dux Proximus: Uros Babovic ATAR: 99.35

Subjects: English, Mathematical Methods, Mathematics Specialist, Physics, Chemistry.

2023 plans: Biomedicine/ engineering at the University of Melbourne. DuxProximus: Riley Lee ATAR: 83.4

Subjects: Further Mathematics, Math Methods, Physics, Chemistry, Biology and English.

2023 plans: Gap year before further study in science/mathematics.

TOP SCORERS

Castlemaine Secondary College

Dux: Obie Adam

ATAR: 98.4

Subjects: English, Maths Methods, Specialist Maths, Physics, Chemistry and Biology.

2023 plans: Gap year before aBachelor of Science and then further study in chemistry, maths or engineering.

Gisborne Secondary College

Dux: Sophie McCormick

ATAR: 97.55

Subjects: Psychology, Chemistry, English, Legal Studies, Further Mathematics and Sociology.

2023 plans: Further study at the University of Melbourne in arts.

Sacred Heart College

Dux: Harrison Gatt

ATAR: 96.2

Subjects: Mathematical Methods, Music Performance (Trumpet), English, Legal Studies, Specialist Mathematics, Physics.

2023 plans: Software engineering at RMIT.

Dux Proximus: Rita Fortune ATAR: 95.65

Subjects: English, Maths Methods, Specialist Maths, Physics, Biology, and Music Performance.

2023 plans: Gap year before undertaking Circus Studies at the National Institute of Circus Arts (Swinburne) or science at the University of Melbourne.

Dux Proximus: Beth Walker

ATAR: 97.45

Subjects: Visual Communication and Design, Biology, English, Environmental Science, and Further Mathematics.

2023 plans: Further study at the University of Melbourne in design/architecture.

Dux Proximus: Siobhan Neville ATAR: 95.35

Subjects: Certificate II in Animal Studies, Biology, Chemistry, Health and Human Development, Literature, Further Mathematics.

2023 plans: Gap year to gain work experience and then further study in arts at the University of Melbourne.

Mayor’s Message

Hi everyone,

My name is Rosie Annear and Iwanted to pop intothe local paper to introducemyself as the newMayor of Mount Alexander ShireCouncil.

Iamexcited forthe year ahead, and honoured by the opportunity to represent our shire andour community in such ameaningful way.I’m keen to get out and about, and meet newpeople,asmuchasI canwhile in the role,soplease get in touch if there’ssomething exciting you’dliketoshare with me

I’ll be taking some time off over thefestiveperiod, to spend quality time with my kids and family,and to rest abit –I’m knackered! But I’ll be back “in the office” in the newyear,and will be ready to get out andget amongstit, again.

Iwish everyone asafeand happyChristmas and festivetime, but acknowledge thatitcan be atough time formanypeople, as well. Reach out to your friends and family,staykind and connected, and neverbeafraid or ashamed to ask forhelp. All the bestfor the tail-end of 2022! Find outmoreabout MayorAnnear and your Councillors at mountalexander.vic.gov.au/Councillors

Calling all writers

Goldfields Libraries and Eaglehawk Festivals Inc. are calling for entries from writers all over Australia for the annual Mulga Bill Writing Award.

Writers are encouraged to take inspiration from the theme ‘gold’ and submit apoem or short story. Writers of all skill levels are encouraged to apply, with prizes awarded to the best two in each category.

Short Story (up to 2000 words)

$500 first prize, $150 second prize.

Winners selected by local writer and author, Lauren Mitchell.

Poetry (up to 25 lines)

$200 first prize, $50 second prize.

Winners selected by award-winning poet and writer, Lorraine Marwood.

Entries close Friday March 3, 2023, with winners to be announced at the Eaglehawk Dahlia and Arts Festival.

For more information, or visit www.ncgrl.vic.gov.au/mulgabillwritingaward.

VCATapproves five homes forGisborne

Afive-lot development in Gisborne will proceed following aVictorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal decision to set aside Macedon Ranges Shire Council's refusal of the application.

The five homes are planned for 5Bruce Court, including two double-storey, on a 1888 square metre site.

MRSC refused the application on several grounds, primarily concerned that the plans were inconsistent with the planning policies and the intensity and scale were against neighbourhood character.

Objectors also felt the development would have an unreasonable impact on the amenity of the area through an increase in traffic and car parking.

While the site is not within the preferred area for medium-density housing for Gisborne, the VCAT member said it had attributes which suggested it was asuitable candidate.

These attributes include its proximity to commercial centre of Gisborne and services like public transport.

The VCAT member ruled the development was consistent with planning policy, was an acceptable response to the neighbourhood character of the area, and that it would not result in any unreasonable traffic impacts.

Some minor changes were required in the permit conditions including aminor increase in the front setback to one house and arevised landscape plan, which includes agreater number of canopy tree plantings.

Sharing knowledge across time

“Dear 2072” begins the inscription that will sit beside the time capsule buried last week at Kyneton Primary School.

“This time capsule holds asnapshot of the natural treasures of the Greenhill to Black Hill biolink in 2022. We share our knowledge of this time, to help inform the future.

"It is our hope that when you open this, native animals such as koala, platypus and phascogale are thriving once again in this area.”

The time capsule is part of local environmental organisation Biolinks Alliance’s commitment to engaging the next generation to continue the legacy of their work with the Macedon Ranges community across the Greenhill to Black Hill biolink.

Earlier this year, executive director Sophie Bickford visited Kyneton Primary School and invited students to consider the value of the animals and plants around where they live. She asked them ”What do you treasure about this place?”

Their responses to this provocation, through pictures and words, are included in the time capsule, along with photographs of some of the properties across the biolink taken by Sam Slicer.

Ashort film, Reflections,madeby Joshua Tyler, is included and highlights the plight of native species in the region with citizen historians and traditional owner interviews.

Mapping of the significant large old trees and the plan outlining the project's vision of collaboration to halt species extinctions and ecological breakdown are also in the capsule that will be unearthed in 50 years' time.

The capsule is topped with asculpture created by local artist Jason Waterhouse

Manna Gum, 2021), and was

Ms Bickford said this intergenerational connection was indicative of the way that Biolinks Alliance saw community as a central partner in its work.

“Being embedded in community gives us more feet on the ground, more hands in the soil, more people talking about the solution and more people with asharedvision of athrivingfuture for people and the planet," she said.

"We see young people as avital part of our community, and take our responsibility of leaving aliving legacy to them seriously.”

The burying of the time capsule marked the end of afundraising campaign and community project, Treasures of this Land, which raised much-needed funds to continue the work already taking place across 3000 hectares of diverse landscape.

Biolinks Alliance has been supported by The Albert and Barbara Tucker Foundation, Kyneton Primary School, Macedon Ranges Shire Council and the Kyneton community to undertake this ambitious project.

(Greenhill

unveiled by Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas and local councillor Mark Ridgeway.

Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas addresses students after unveiling the time capsule (Left) The capsule is topped with asculpture created by localartistJason Waterhouse (Greenhill Manna Gum, 2021).

Authorised by the Victorian Government,1Treasury Place,Melbourne

About the rebate

TheHome Heating and CoolingUpgrades Program will help Victorian households improve their thermal comfort by offering rebatestoupgrade gas heaters, electric heaters and wood heaters with energyefficient reverse-cycle air conditioners. Those with no heating mayalso be eligible

Through upgrading ahome heating system, applicants can improve their quality of life, provide jobs fortradespeople,producebroader environmental benefits by reducing gas emissions and improving local air quality,and pave the way forthe electrification of Victorian households as the statetransitions to arenewable energy future.

Under the program, eligible households can receive: »$1,000 towardsthe cost of an energy-efficient reverse-cycle air conditioner;

»$200 towardsthe cost of decommissioning their outdatedgas heater(if an existing gas heaterisbeing replaced); and »$500 towardsthe cost of upgrading their switchboard(if an upgrade is required to install the rebatedreverse-cycle air conditioner).

Flying Fllyying scholarship scholarshi lands land

The scholarship program is open to newstudents and people who have begun flight training, aged between 16 and 22 years.

The Kyneton Aero Club flying scholarship will launch in 2023 to support young people with ademonstrated interest in aviation.

Aseeddonation from the estate of member Colin McAvoy and support from current club members made the scholarship possible.

The program is open to new students and people who have already begun flight training, aged between 16 and 22 years on January 1, 2023.

The scholarship will pay 50 per cent of the cost of each instructional or flying hour, to amaximum total value of $5000. This value will be provided progressively as the training is undertaken.

Training is based on competency rather than hours of study (the RAA Pilot Certificate generally takes between 20-30 flying hours to achieve).

For selection criteria and further details visit the club's website: kynetonaeroclub.org/wp

Air attackonstandby

Victoria’s aerial firefighting fleet is prepared to respond to fires that may happen over summer, with the 50-strong fleet ready to be deployed.

Anew addition to Victoria’s base fleet of 50 aircraft is the Black Hawk, which can hold up to 4000 litres of water and can also drop fire retardant and foam.

The CH47 Chinook returns for asecond year –capable of holding 11,000 litres of water it

Apermanent levee is being built at the Castlemaine zone substation as part of Powercor’s major program of work to reduce the risk of flooding affecting electricity supplies.

Powercor crews have begun constructing atwo-metre-high permanent levee on land just outside the zone substation site, near Campbells Creek. Work is expected to be completed by early February, 2023.

Powercor has been working closely with Dja Dja Wurrung traditional owners, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning and Mount Alexander Shire Council to fast-track the work.

The levee is made from compacted soil, which is then covered with grass to integrate into the natural surrounds, and is being built to withstand one-in-200-year flood levels.

Temporary flood mitigation measures, including sandbagging, will remain in place at various sites through December and January, with the La Nina weather pattern remaining across the state.

With Victoria’s weather becoming more unstable, Powercor is also examining other longer-term engineering solutions, such as raising critical equipment and

control rooms, at other sites across the network.

Powercor’s head of major projects, Marcus Olive, said the combination of short and long-term measures were designed to build more resilience in the power network and reduce the likelihood of flood waters impacting zone substations and causing power outages for communities in the future.

“Our weather is changing and as we experience more extreme events like the recent floods, it’s critical we are building more resilient power infrastructure to withstand as much as possible the impacts of these events,” Mr Olive said.

In October, Powercor de-energised the Castlemaine zone substation after rising water from nearby rivers and creeks breached the temporary levees and flooded the sites. By turning off the substation, Powercor was able to minimise the safety risk to the community and reduce the potential for long-term damage.

The Castlemaine zone substation was built by the SEC in the 1960s and supplies 12,364 customers across Maldon, Newstead, Elphinstone, Harcourt, Campbells Creek, Drummond and surrounding areas.

Festival raffle

Taradale’s Mineral Springs Festival will be back in 2023 with what organisers hope will be the biggest and most successful festival in its history.

The much anticipated festival raffle will also make areturn with tickets once again being sold prior to the big March Labour Day.

This tickets will be available from December to maximise sales and funds raised for local community groups.

Prizes for the 2023 raffle are the biggest yet, with the first prize being a$5000 travel voucher provided by Broadhurst Property.

“We think agoodtravelprize will be very popular in this post COVID-lockdown era,” said Peter Phillips, president of the Taradale Mineral Springs Festival committee.

“People are very keen to travel, anywhere, and the prize hasa lot of appeal as it can be spent on interstate or overseas travel.”

Second prize is a65inchsmart TV, third prize isa $500 RBSellars clothing voucher and fourth prize is a$100voucher from Watts Fresh in Kyneton.

Tickets are $5 each and available online at: raffletix.com.au/taradalefestival2023

Proceeds from the raffle are distributed to benefit Taradale community groups including the fire brigade, Taradale Primary School, historical group and others.

Next generationrecycling

Castlemaine Secondary College has teamed up with The Good Op Shop on avery exciting environmental project –reusing plastic bottle lids.

The Good Op Shop, alocal charity that sells secondhand goods to raise money for conservation projects, is keen to fund new ways to reuse waste that was destined for landfill, especially among school children and youth.

This project needs to raise $15,000 to buy two machines for the local high school to shred plastic bottle lids; heat the shredded plastic and then pour it into moulds to make new products, such as hair combs, USB sticks or plant pots. The plastic found in many of our everyday products can be used over and over again.

The Good Op Shop co-director Tinnfany Inglis said this was an exciting step to be taking with the school.

"We’d love tosee the schoolmakeproducts that the students can sell, and then use any profits they make to buy new product moulds to keep making more and more products, and as such, they’ve created acircular economy and kept more out of landfill," she said.

CSC school council president Beth Mellick is working with The Good Op Shop to help students and staff set up aspace in the school where the lids will be sorted, cleaned and prepared, ready for reuse in the machines.

"It’s aterrific project that all year levels canparticipate in. Once

we have the machines to start making products from the lids, the students will be able toget hands on experience with re-purposing resources. They will also get tolearn about product design, technology, marketing, and finances," Beth said.

Ateam of students who went on aleadership camp recently are leading the project and have arranged collection points for the lids at The Good Op Shop, Castlemaine Secondary College, and at the Mount Alexander Shire Council office.

Students will start collecting and processing the lids on site at the school in the new year.

The next step istopurchase the two machines. The Good Op Shop has created aMyCause campaign online to fundraise for the machines –the campaign has raised $2,250 so far.

Tiffany recently participated in the Loddon Murray Community Leadership Program and was awarded $3000 towards the project via agenerous donation by the Hugh Williamson Foundation.

"We’d be so grateful if anyone can help to set up the next generation to learn, take part in and benefit from recycling," Tiffany said.

"We hope this project will inspireyoung people and their families to find ways to recycle other materials and tackle the problems we don’t yet know how to fix."

If you would like to help support this cause you can donate online at www.mycause.com.au/page/299713/the-next-generationrecycling

Funding boost forHub,Fringe

Two Castlemaine community groups are among 20 regional groups and not-for-profits organisations to share in $250,000 in grants through the ANZ Seeds of Renewal program.

ANZ and the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal have awarded Hub Foundation Castlemaine Limited a$15,000 grant for 'YIMBY Gymby', which aims to boost the capacity of backyard composting through engaging young volunteers to support older community members in Castlemaine.

Castlemaine Fringe has also been awarded a$13,581 grant to create opportunities for young people and people with adisability to participate in arts projects that inspireand engage the community.

ANZ general manager business banking Jenefer Stewart said they understood small communitiesfaced unique challenges in terms of access to services and community facilities.

Seeds of Renewalaims tosupport these communitiesbyfunding projects that address some of these challenges.

“This year is really special as it marks 20 years of ANZdelivering Seeds of Renewal. In that time, we have provided more than $5.5 million to800 community groups,supporting approximately 900 projects, that have helped to buildvibrant and sustainable rural communities and ensure the ongoing prosperity of regional Australia,” Ms Stewart said.

CSC students William Haslam, BillyListerand Cielo Demaria-O’Sullivan, principal Justin Hird, school council president Beth Mellickand The Good Op Shop’sTiffanyIngliss are pictured with some of the plastic lids theyhavealreadycollected forthe project.

To the Girton GrammarSchoolYear12Graduates of 2022

On behalfofthe Boardand Staff at GirtonGrammar School,Iwould like to congratulate youonthe completion of Year 12and your outstandingVCE results. With an averageATARof82.7, and63.7% of your cohortrankedinthe top20% of theState, we couldnot be prouder Howfar youhaveall come since entering ourSchoolgates. Eighteen of youare “lifers”, joiningthe school so many yearsago as Preps, and many more joined Girton in Year 7. Throughcampsand School formals, numerousco-curricular activities,belovedHouse competitionsand otherSchoolevents, in theclassroom, on thestage,and on the sports field,you have grownupatGirton, and becomeyoung adults of whom we are immenselyproud

As aYear12cohort, youhavedisplayed strongleadership, commitment,enthusiasm, and compassion,which hasbeenactivelyreflected by ouryounger students this year.You have embraced your VCEstudies with afierce determinationand apositive attitude andsoughtevery avenue of support to ensure youput your best foot forward. Thenextfew yearswillbeexciting- full of newexperiences,new beginnings, new jobs, newachievements, andnew friends. Ihopethatthe many opportunitiesyou have experiencedduringyourtimeatGirtonhavepreparedyou to be thebestpersonyou canbe.

Ihopethatour high butreasonableexpectationshavegiven youastrongsenseof what youcan achieve when youset your mindtoit. Ihopethatour extensiveco- curricular programhas givenyou opportunitiestofind your passions, and insights into what givesyou joy. Ihopethatyou leave Girtonwithadeepsense of curiosity and alove of learning that drives youtoseeknew experiencesand pursue knowledge throughout your lifetime.Ihopethatyou maintain thehumilitytoadmit when you don’thavethe answersand be braveenoughtoask forhelpwhenyou need it. Forour departingstudents, we know youwillgofar anddowellinthe world. Iurge you to take what youhavelearned and lovedatGirtonand useittoseekand findsuccess. Live purposefully.Pursueknowledge always. Challenge yourself.Bekindtoothersand be kind to yourself.And importantly,enjoy thepresent and enjoy thejourney. Wherever theworld takesyou,and whatever success meansfor you, youwillalways be aGirtonian.Wewillfollow your progress and look forwardtowelcomingyou back to shareyourjourney throughthe OldGirtonian’s Association

Yourssincerely

Principal

Yours sincerely

Dr E

Romseyrecycled water release

Greater Western Water began conducting acontrolled release of treated wastewater into Deep Creek from last Thursday.

GWW said it notified EPA Victoria of the temporary release from Romsey Recycled Water Plant due to wet weather and high inflows.

"We monitor the plant's storage levels daily. We expect to release Class Brecycled water for about 10 days based on current weather conditions and BoM forecasts," they told customers last Tuesday.

"The above-average rainfall for this time of year means the plant's lagoons are back above alevel we can safely manage through other options, including water carting to other locations. Awet weather release is our only option to prevent an uncontrolled spill of raw sewage into Deep Creek.

"With rainfall forecast to ease as we move further into summer, we expect to use the recycled water for local irrigation from January."

GWW said strict water quality monitoring was in place to protect community and environmental health.

"We have advised affected downstream landowners on Deep Creek about this further release. Sampling results and release details will continue to be available on our website," GWW said.

Sixteen years later it was presented to Ken, Glenys and Roger Kelly from Myrtle Creek, the property name ‘Pine Hill’ consigned 510 head to the feature sale at Kyneton, with their tops of 112 head taking out the trophy.

In the introduction to the sale, Brendan Coxon of Elders Kyneton welcomed all to the annual fixture and paid thanks to the vendors for holding back their ewes and presenting them at Kyneton in what had been adifficult year. He paid thanks to the carriers for delivery of all lines and also to the yard staff working cold and wet conditions over two days.

–Top first-cross ewes: S&J Saunders (Nutrien Kyneton) 223 head $300 with a

further pen of 197 $280 with the purchaser Coliban Heights.

–Top presented pen: KJ &GM&RL Kelly (Elders) 112 head $260 purchaser Rupert Clarke P/L.

Other results: Nutrien

A/c R&P Paget 197 head $280

A/c J&J McCahon (sic) 124 head $250 Elders

A/c BP Kelly 163 head $252-$160

A/c MA &KMWalter 161 head $256$200

A/c Stockrange 294 head $264-$240 A/c Bright Future Livestock 299 head $160-140 A/c RStables 228 head $220-$140

A/c AP &KABarri 200 head $260-$245 –Aweaner calf sale feature will be held at 11am on Wednesday January 18, 2023.

(Details provided by Larina Strauch

The Geoff Keech Memorial Trophy for the best presented pen of first-cross ewes at Kyneton Saleyards was started in 2006 to acknowledge the late Geoff Keech, an agent and auctioneer for Elders for many decades.

on behalf of Kyneton Associated Agents.)

memorial trophyand the smaller

34-36 EdgecombeStreet, Kyneton TowerHill -Circa 1880

Timeless style and ameticulous renovation programcombine in this landmark19th centuryKyneton residence,set on a2,090 sqm (halfacre) garden allotment in the centre of town. Framed by centuryold oak and elm trees,and bordered by Portuguese Laurels and Camellias there is astrong connection to the landscape with stunning garden vistas at everyturn, and the home skilfully marries original Victorian elements with the lightness and transparency of modern construction.

In the formal living room, the hand finished painted ceiling is astriking counterpoint to the powder blue walls and Baltic Pine floorboards,while the Victorian erajoineryand marble mantlepiece add further texture The contemporary, open plan entertainer’skitchen, informal living and dining area employs extensivedouble glazing to let light permeate throughout as well as offering areassuring line ofsight forwatching children at playaround the beautifully landscaped gardens and inground heated pool.

Featuring amarble top islandbench as well as electric European appliances,the kitchen is bridged by an adjacent sitting room which adds to the grandeur of thehome with generously proportioned and beautifully highlighted ceilings

Wrapped around thecentral bathroom, there are 3generousbedrooms with the masterfeaturing an exquisite ensuite and walk in robe and double doors thatengage with thegarden and thelandscape beyond. Arecently convertedgarden shed doublesasapool house,home office or guest bedroomand retains the original shinglesand trusses as a visual connection to the past. Equally,the fully insulated double garage borrows from the design elements of the original gable end of the home, reinforcing the design brief to be practical as well as beautiful.

Whileweexperiencedaslowerthanusual start to thetraditionally busy spring period,due in part to theunseasonalwet weatherand vendors beinglessoptimisticabout thepropertymarket, momentumreallypickedupinmid-November, and hascarried well into Decemberand we look set to enjoyasteadyrun throughJanuary/February 2023

Whilebuyer numbershavepartially dropped off duetothe distractionsofthe festiveseason,2022 hasbeen allabout interest rate rises andmanaging them goingforward.For thoseactivebuyersin the market they definitelymean business.Infact, the quality of thebuyerswe’ve metoverthe past 4weeks hasimprovedexponentially –theyknow what they want,they’ve gottheir finance sorted, andthey’re readytobuy theright property when theysee it

Thebuyerswe’re hearingfromlately fall into afew broadcategories.There areplenty of metropolitan andinterstate buyerswho aremoving to the MacedonRangestostart work in thenew year, as well as locals whoare keen to secure their next property before thekidsgobacktoschoolin 2023.Manyexpatsare returning to ourareaafter a stintelsewhere,and arelooking forfootholdsand futurefamilyhomes in theirold stomping grounds, andthe older generationare downsizing to move closer to theirchildren andgrandchildren in the area.Strongerimmigration figures andtight rental marketsare also keeping themarketbuoyant at the

lowerend,particularlyasmanyfirsthome buyers seek to purchase apropertyasaway out of the rental crisis.

With immigration returningtopre-Covid levels and theexpectation that Australiawillhaveapopulation of 30 million by 2030,the traditionally robust nature of thepropertymarketfor thelongtermwill stand in good stead. On topofthis, the currentaversion to building is only goingtounderpinthe value of established property.Insummary,the cost of everything is significantly higher but thedemand forplacestoliveisn't goinganywhere but up,for the reasons mentioned, multipliedbylesshomes being built

Historicallyalot of decisions andplanning is made whenpeople have abreak,aswellasrenewed optimism about what might be next in theirown personal chapters.Real estate will oftenbeatthe centre of these discussions andnextyearwill be averygoodopportunity to capitalise on amuch more balanced market

Onethingwe’re hearinga lotlately is that people areconcerned about selling andnot having enough time to findtheirnextproperty, howeverthis shouldn’t be abarrier forsellers.Infact, sellers canrest assuredthatthe control of thesettlement period is in theirhands

Sellers determine settlementtimeframesthatsuit theirneeds.Mostbuyerswespeak to arewilling to adjust theirexpectations andacceptsettlements

from twomonthstoaslongassix months

Longer settlements canbeaveryeffective tool, as they allowsellers to enterthe market as strong buyerswithout thepressureofquick turnarounds–giving ample time to execute theirnextmove. And ourexperience makesthe difference herepotential vendorsneedanagent who understands your circumstancesand canworkwithyou to establish theright conditions forasuccessful sale Whether that meansprivate treatyorauction,long or shortsettlement, or making suggestions around styling,targetedadvertising,and pricing–wecan help

Getintouch withthe team foraconfidential, candid discussion about howwecan turnwhat caninitially seem to be adaunting task,intoavery well planned, strategicmovein2023and in the meantime,wetrust ourreaders,clients andfriends have arelaxing,joyfuland well-earnedbreak -and thebest possible NewYear!

111 Mollison Street, Malmsbury

Historic Charmer with Established Gardens

ForSale

EPR: $880,000- $960,000

This elevatedVictorian home offers an exemplaryfusionofhistoriccharm and contemporary comforton1,058 sqm(approx.)ofsettled, landscapedgardens Completewithall of thewished-forperiodfeatures,discoverawidefront and sideveranda with decorativeironlacework, 11-foothighceilings andBalticpine floors.The floorplan features 4spaciousbedrooms,2 livingareasand astylish newkitchen andbathroom.Hydronicheating andsplit system airconditioning aredesirableinclusions. An extensiveoutdoor deckedspace will be popularin thewarmermonths. Stroll to thetrain station,the BotanicGardens andthe town centre from this stellaraddress.

4 1 2 1,058sqm

5Evans Street,

Malmsbury

Period

Home with Heart

ForSale

EPR: $860,000 –$940,000

This charming 1930s weatherboard home has beengiftedwithanextensive andthoughtful renovation. Thesecure 1,614sqm (approx.) corner block is an inspiring blendofspectaculargardens andcarefully curatedentertainingspaces. Inside,the generous split-level designfeatures 2livingareasand 4spacious bedrooms.The family bathroom is simply stunning, showcasing bluestone tiles andthe kitchen islikewiseonpoint with Caesarstonebenchtops andstainlesssteel appliances. Communityand convenience areright on your doorstep;strollto villagecentre,BotanicGardens andtrain station.

4 1 4 1,614sqm

Perfectlypositioned on a1,805 sqmblock,thislovinglyrestoredlandmark 1950shome expresses the refinementand historic resonance of thepostwarera.Behind thetraditional triple frontedfaçade, subtly modernised withblack facias andwindowedging, is alight filledhome presentedwith ‘black Japan’floors,a confident useofwallcolour andappealingmidcenturystyling. This home allowsfor effortlessentertainingand spaces to work, live andplay.

51 Mollison Street, Malmsbury 1950s RetroBeauty 1 4 1 1,805sqm

55 Mollison Street, Malmsbury Coliban Cottage C.1890 1 3 1 1,138sqm

ForSale

EPR:$750,000- $820,000

Nestledbehindahighhedge in theheart of town,thislate19thcentury Victorianhomeabounds withcharacter.Adisarmingly modest façade belies abrightand welcoming interior withasunnyopenplanliving area,providing lightand warmth allyear-round. Thehome retainsmany hallmarks of the eraincluding mantlepieces, panelleddadowallsand ceilings that maintain therusticaesthetic.

45 ClowesStreet, Malmsbury Family Living In The Botanical GardensPrecinct 2 4 2 1,037sqm

ForSale

Centrally positioned andbeautifully presented, this elevatedfamily home is poisedfor relaxed, countryliving with alarge allotmentof1,037 sqm providingthe backdropfor this 4bedroom family home modelled along classiclines. Theopenplankitchen,living anddiningareaisthe perfect settingfor anyfamily gathering, whetherintimateoronalarge scale. Quitesimply, this is countryliving at itsbestand most relaxing

23-25 Sullivan Street, Malmsbury Developer’s Opportunity Opposite MalmsburyReservoir

ForSale

EPR: $620,000

Posing many possibilities,with2titles on 1,382sqm,thiswellpositioned property givesyou theoptionofbuilding 2dwellings(STCA)orkeepthe currenthome anddoacosmeticrenovation andmovestraightin. In sound condition,the northfacingliving area andadjacentkitchen is flooded with lightand has immediate liveabilityand the3 generous bedroomshavefull heightwindows andbuilt in robes -all accessible from thecentral living zone andthere is acombinedlaundry/bathroom with aseparate wc. Outside is a lowmaintenance garden withsinglecar undercover carport.

1 3 1 1,382sqm

TheHillsHoistisstill here,and themid-centurycharacter of thehome is preservedwitha 70stwist.Wellpositioned,between the Botanical Gardens,Castlemaine SecondaryCollegeand NorthPrimary School, this period gemisready fora bright future. Idealasagreat first home or apassiveinvestmentand immediatelylivable,the northfacingback yard offers tremendous possibilities to extend andcapitalise on the sunny orientation to bring theoutside worldin.

25-27 Wheatley Street, Kyneton Double Block Opportunity 4 2 3 1,532sqm

ForSale

EPR: $800,000 -$880,000

Posing many possibilities,thisperiodpropertyisa rare opportunityto capitalise on thedesirablelocation.The 4bedroom weatherboard homeis setonapproximately 769m²and in original condition,awaitingrestoration or redevelopment.The home borders aROW,thatprovidesaccesstothe school crossing on EdgecombeStreet,and it is then only aquick walk to the aquaticcentre andshoppingprecinctbeyond. The clearedallotment of approximately 763m²isa perfectscenariofor someonelooking to subdivide andbuild (STCA)orsimplysecure ahome with asizeable backyard

1419 Kyneton Springhill Road, Spring Hill Wingara

ForSale

EPR: $1,100,000 -$1,200,000

Meaning‘Spring of Water’,thisrenovated3bedroom cedarweatherboard home sits at the endofa picturesque drivewayentrance,set amidst a sprawling,establishedgardendottedwithmaturetrees andgardenbeds. Thereisanunderstated,timelessstyle about thehome:withvantage points over thepark-likegardenfromthe deep frontand rearverandah. Thehome is infusedwithabundantnorthern light, withthe open plan living anddiningareaensuring year-roundcomfort andeffortless entertaining.

1 3 6 5,059sqm (1.25acres)

40 Honeysuckle Road, Lauriston

Undulating Acreage with Numerous LifestyleOptions

ForSale

EPR: $1,500,000 -$1,650,000

Offering secluded living in oneofthe region’s most coveteddistricts,Allan Valley Farm’s 38.5 hectares approx.(95 acresapprox.)isdivided into 5paddocks andiseminentlysuitable fora rangeofgrazing interests –pursuitswhich are already very successful in thedistrict. The 16 year old home provides 3light-filled bedrooms,a northfacing, open plan livingenvironmentwithadjacentkitchen/ meals(whichcomeswitha Falconoven) wood fireheaterand auxiliarysplit system unit. However, this isa property that trulycelebrates theimportance of family andthe outdoors:a large undercover entertainingarea hashosted numerousbirthdays andget togethersfor large numbers.

1 3 2 38 5 ha (95 acres)

3Mia Mia-Lancefield Road, MiaMia Ahh…TheCountryLife

ForSale EPR:$440,000 -$480,000

As youmeanderalong,pastthe iconic Redesdalebridge,into theMia Miahamlet, your shouldersrelax, andyou know that you’re home.This idyllic3,989 sqm (1 acre)setting is locatedonly minutesfromRedesdale, Heathcoteand Lake Eppalock. It is acharming1970s kithome witha delightful sunny aspect,overlooking aseasonal creek, majestic gums and thelocalrecreational reserve. This is countrylifeatits best, withthislow maintenance property well suited forapermanentmoveorthe convenient weekender.

1 3 2 3,989 sqm (1 acre)

609 Vaughan Springs Road, Drummond North

The QuietLife

ForSale

EPR: $700,000 -$770,000

Live thequiet lifeonthisrarely found3.79HA(9.36 acres) completewitha modern 1bedroom retreat andseparatestudio.Architecturally designed, this solar passiveplacedhomesitsharmoniously withinthe bushland surrounds,delivering ahighstandardofliving with an abundance of northfacinglight from full height double glazed windowsthatframe the quintessentially Australian landscape beyond

2 1 1 3 79 ha (9.36 acres)

152 Pipers Creek Road, Kyneton

Tranquil Family Living In A Park-Like Setting

ForSale

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

50 Dettmanns Lane, Kyneton

Private Sanctuarywith District Views

ForSale

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

Come hometoyourprivate 2ha(5acre) sanctuaryonthe fringe of Kyneton. This spectacularlifestyle property beckoningfamilies,city professionalsand retirees alike, offers 2paddocks, atenniscourt,an orchard, open lawn spaces andestablished gardens. Theupdatedbrick veneer features 3robed andcarpetedbedrooms,2 living areasand an extensiveundercoveroutdoor entertainingspace.Kyneton’sschools, supermarkets andshops arejustover2kmsawayoraccessthe Calder Freeway, delivering youtoMelbourne withinthe hour.

3 5 4 2 34 ha

Highlydesirablefor its elevated, sealed roadposition andtranquil ruralbackdrop, this picturesque family home delivers ahighstandard of living amidst 2.34hectares(7acres)oflush,park-likesurrounds Thewelcoming tree-lined drivewayand circular forecourtprovides an indication of what to expect.Comprising asubtleand delightful arrangementofbuildings, it offers ahome of superb build quality,withfull heightwindows andframedviews of thegardenand the meandering Post Office Creekwhich runs throughthe property 3Bloomfields Lane,

Tylden

Highly desirablefor itsquiet countrylanewithfar reaching districtand mountain views,this3bedroom home hasa strong connectionwiththe outdoors, withroomsbathedinsunlight overlookingthe surrounding landscape. There is acomforting family friendlyflow withaneasyopen plan livingenvironment,expansiveverandahs frontand rear, large privatedeckand firepit area.For thoseseeking more space, thereisthe opportunitytohaveaself-sustainable lifestylewithanabundanceoffruit trees,vegetablegardenand hothouse providing numerousoptions

1 3 2 2 04 ha (5 acres)

92 FoxesLane, Kyneton

Tranquil Family Living with Room to Grow

ForSale

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

Privately seton2.01hectares(5acres approx.) amongst majestic gums andgranite outcrops, this classichomesteadhas long districtviews from thefront verandah andisinfusedwith abundant northern light. Thehub of thehome is an entertainer'skitchen withadjoiningfamily/mealsarea plus twospaciousliving zones, 3large bedrooms (masterwithwalkthrough robe andensuitebathroom), centralbathroom withseparatetoilet, oversizedlaundry andgenerousstorage ticking many boxesfor agrowing family

3 2 2 2 01 ha (5 acres)

ForSale

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

Conveniently positioned,thiswellproportioned4bedroom family home hosts largefamily gatherings witheaseaswellasaffording adults and kids their ownspace andprivacy.Set back from thestreet withacircular forecourttothe over-sized double garage,the wide entryhallleads to aformalliving room withgas fireplacefor quietcontemplation,before opening to afullwidth,informal, open plan family anddiningarea with an exquisitekitchen floodedwithmorninglight

Locatedonaprivate,elevatedcornerblock of 1325 sqm, withsuperb northeastern vistasoverthe townshiptoWombatHill, largesections of thehome open to theexteriorensuring that thegreenery anda kaleidoscopeofcoloursurrounds youatevery turn. Therecentrenovation dissolves the barriers between theindoor– outdoorliving, further complementedbythe uniquegardensurroundingscurated by Eckersley Garden Architecture.

55 Raglan Street, Daylesford Fontaine 2 4 1 632 sqm

ForSale

EPR $1,400,000 -$1,500,000

Combining traditional elements withbespoke,contemporary finishes, this completely restored 4bedroom,2 bathroom CalifornianBungalow makes abold statementinretrovibe.Occupyingacentral position between the BotanicalGardens andthe retail precinct, thearchitectural elements of theoriginal home blend beautifullywiththe dramatic contrastofwhite wallsand ‘Black Japanned’ floorboardsand statementfinishessuchas Encausticbathroomtiles andbrasstapware

35 Perrins Street, Daylesford

Large and Rare OasisIn The Lake Precinct

ForSale

EPR $2,750,000 -$2,900,000

This beautifulsanctuary,close to thecentre of Daylesford is arare opportunity that is allabout indoor-outdoor living but on amuchmore generous scale. Setona verdant1.09hectareswithin easywalking distance to Vincent Street’s shops,cafes,and of course Lake Daylesford,thishome is an enormous,renovatedresidence setover2levels.A stylish, self-contained 1bedroom apartment on theground floor,complete with stunning lake views andaprivate courtyard, is pairedwith5generous bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms,a huge chef’s kitchen/dining area with separate loungeonthe upperlevel.

6 7 4 1 09 ha

Recent SalesRecent Reviews

40 Mollison Street, Kyneton- SOLD $985,000 88 Balls Lane, Pipers Creek - SOLD $1,900,000 98A Wedge Street, Kyneton - SOLD: $1,075,000 14 Bodkin Street, Kyneton- SOLD: $1,265,000 314 OldDrummond Road, Taradale - SOLD: $998,000 267 OldDrummond Road, Taradale - SOLD: $866,000 106 Deep Lead Lane, Kyneton- SOLD: $1,355,000 9Diss Road, Taradale - SOLD: $1,025,000 63 Beauchamp Street, Kyneton - SOLD: $1,400,000

Broadhurst Brilliance -Robertand Joanne made the sale of our home as stress free and straightforwardaspossible, yielding agreat result that we were really happywith.

Outstanding Experience -Selling while interest rateswere rising was not for the faint hearted, but Robwas completely across the market and his advice was spot on. We sold within 2.5 weeks with aprice at the top of ourrange.

TopQuality Service -Wesigned up with Broadhurst Property because they were so enthusiastic about our property. They went beyond the call of duty to ensurethatour sale was as stress free as possible. The icing on the cake was afastsale at agreat price.

Considered Communicator &Service -Rob gaveusan honest &accurate appraisal at all stages of the selling process. He spent time upfront understanding our ideal circumstances for sale and carefully planned astrategytodohis best to achieveanoutcome thataligned with this. Butmostly we valued Rob’scandid communication whichhelped to support our decisions.

View thesereviews and moreonratemyagent.com.au

Plan targetszero

Macedon Ranges Shire Council will work towards reducing its carbon footprint across council-managed facilities and operations through Counting Down to Zero.

The newly adopted council plan targets zero net emissions by June 30, 2030, outlining more than 30 recommended actions.

These actions include phasing out the use of gas in favour of more efficient energy sources and embedding sustainable initiatives into the design and construction of projects.

Another key point is replacing council passenger vehicles at the end of their life with electric alternatives.

Mayor Annette Death said adopting this plan meant the council joined many governments, organisations and businesses across the country in committing to address climate change in an accountable way.

“Climate change is not something we can wait to react to –wehavetocontinue taking steps to reduce our emissions,” she said.

“This is aclear plan forthe next decade that steps out anumber of realistic, meaningful actions the council can take, to build on the progress we’ve already made in this area.”

The zero net emissions target will be measured against the indicative baseline of 3260.6 tonnes CO2-e at June 30 2022 –a figure already significantly reduced by the council over the past year, in large part due to arenewable energy contract secured through the Victorian Energy Collaboration.

VECO, an agreement involving close to 50 councils across Victoria procuring electricity from renewable energy generators, has resulted in acollective saving of around 172,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions in its first year –equivalent to taking

66,000 cars off the road each year.

Counting Down to Zero was adopted last week and will be reviewed every two years until 2030 to ensure it remains valid. Progress on targets will be reported annually.

Council’s adoption of the plan follows its Declaration of Climate Emergency in March last year.

MayorAnnette Death at the electric vehicle charging station in Kyneton.

SUPER QUIZ?

General knowledge (1 point) 6. What is the title of Whitney Houston’s biopic set to release this month? 7. In the tale of Snow White, which of the following names was not that of one of the seven dwarfs: Dopey, Bashful, Snoozy, Doc, Grumpy or Sneezy?

8. In the study of sleep, what is REM an acronym for?

9. What colour is Darth Vader’s lightsaber?

(3 points)

10. What is the capital city of Jamaica?

YourOPINIONS @

Continuing to represent

Dominic Bonanno, Gisborne

Iwish to express my gratitude and thanks to everyone who supported and voted for me during the recent Victorian state election.

From the people who made contact to wish me luck, right through to my campaign team who were out there (rain, hail or shine) with me every day on pre-poll, thank you.

Congratulations to Mary-Anne Thomas on her re-election and although it wasn’t the outcome Iwanted, I’m proud to have demonstrated my Liberal values and been part of the team that contributed to aswing towards the Liberal Party in the district of Macedon.

Iwill continue to represent everyone in our community at the Macedon Ranges Shire Council to the best of my ability and advocate for the important things that people raised during the campaign, including but not limited to:

•improving our health system –Daylesford Hospital and our Triple Zero systems

•improving our environment –Wastewater issues from our water authorities and utilising technologies and innovation to achieve positive outcomes for our environment

•improving the state of our roads

•improving the mental health of our youth, and

•getting our children more active and advocating for the Macedon Ranges Regional Sports Precinct Stage 2Upgrade

Do we actually need it?

ChrisHooper,Castlemaine

In 'VCAT overturns servo decision' (Midland Express,December 13), VCAT member Tracy Watson states in relation to her approval of aservice station in Elphinstone on aquery regardingnecessity "I am not required to undertake this type of need analysis".

So aVCATmember can decide on something purely by planning, size etc. and not that the community/area actually needs it?

It could be said about the decision to approve the larger supermarketinCastlemaine that we alreadyhavetwo supermarkets, but in this world we live in, people so busy and with money constraints that fast shopping seems to be the go.

Will there be many jobs created there with most supermarkets opting for self checkout now?

All these people who want another supermarket should try living next to one with air conditioning and refrigeration motor noise 24/7. Ireckon it won't be cheap enough and people will continue to drive to Aldi. Icertainly won't be shopping there. Mostyn Street is fine for me

Lowerthe limit

Glynn Jarrett, Ravenswood South

Iamcampaigning for areduction in the speed limit along Fogartys Gap Road from 100km/h to 80km/h.

This road is one of the region's most notorious with three fatalities in recent times and ashocking toll on the lives of people, kangaroos and other wildlife.

Mount Alexander Shire Council has stated to me that for the planning for a newly announced project along asmall section of this road, there was no consideration given to the wellbeing of wildlife and the danger wildlife can cause for commuters, it was “not adesignrequirement”. The planned works are only for 3.6km of a 12.5km road, so Ifear that these works will do little to protect commuters, cyclists and our precious wildlife.

Local MP Lisa Chesters was quoted in the media as saying, “The road is known to be ahazardous spot," and "Every local you talk to says you can't drive at 100km/h on this road".

The reasoning given by council tonot lower the speed limit is that “by using the tools and warrants provided by the Department of Transport, in this case the existing 100km/h speedlimit has been assessed as satisfactory for the type of road”. We know this is afallacy and council can and certainly should advocate for areduction in the speed limit along Fogartys Gap Road.

We have recently seen how acouncil, with the will, can bring about change. Greater Bendigo advocated and got a reduction in speed limit along the full length of Crusoe Road, aroad that from all appearances is safer than Fogartys Gap Road.

So comeonMount Alexander councillors, you state on your own webpage that you are "strongly committed to environmental sustainability" yet the ignorance you have shown to my correspondence to you demonstrates alackof foresight, compassion, common sense and inability to align to your own commitments.

Bahhumbug!

Nicholas Scott, PipersCreek

Another year has passedand Iam writing again to comment on how lazy the Macedon Ranges Council is in doing nothing to decorate our lovely Kyneton for Christmas.

Local towns such as Lancefield and Riddells Creek are awash with charming

homemade decorations to get into the spirit of Christmas.

Isincerely hope that 2023, Kyneton shop traders together with the MRSC will make amemorable and visual impact for all who live and visit Kyneton during the festive season.

Is VCAT future-proofing Elphinstone?

TomDanby, Campbells Creek

Despite council and local objections, VCAT approved aservice station on the Elphinstone-Castlemaine crossroad ('VCAT overturns servo decision', Midland Express, December 13), afarming zone with environmental significance overlay, on the grounds it is asuitable site with easy access to the Calder Freeway.

But what mix of fuel will it offer? Will we see underground fossil fuel tanks with concurrent soil contamination, or will we see a 100 per cent electric fast charging complex designed for 2025 and beyond?

Thank you

Signed twograteful locals

Thankyou to the very kind, generous gentleman who paid for our grocery shopping at IGA Castlemaine on Thursday December 15.

Our wishes to him.

Shop local this Christmas

Lisa ChestersMP

As we get closer to Christmas, it is vital that we support local business. Local shops create thriving communities, and that creates jobs. Our local business owners are our friends, family, and valued members of the community.

Asmany workers ‘clock off’ for the holidays, local workers in retail and other services arerolling up their sleeves for some of the busiest days and longest hours of the year. It can be tempting to avoid the lines and shop online at this time of year, but that has ahuge impact on our local business owners.

Buying your Christmas presents from local traders, and buying locally made products, will help boost our region’s economy. By spending your Christmas dollar in our community, you will be supporting our small businesses and keeping people in jobs.

Kyneton, Malmsbury, Castlemaine and surrounding areas include so many unique stores, selling product you just can’t get anywhere else. Our local small businesses have some fantastic Christmas gifts on offer, from produce to homewares and toys.

I’d also recommend visiting the various markets in the region –they’re often where I find really quirky and individual items. Markets are also agreat waytomeetthe maker and find out more about each product. We should celebrate and support our richly artistic community.

Nowisa good time for us torally around and help local traders, shopsand business. Do your best to eat, drink and shop local this Christmas. Whatever you choose, Christmas is about being together and celebrating what we have.

Iwish you avery happy Christmas and safe and exciting New Year. Thank you for a wonderful year. It truly is an honour to be your Federal MP, and I’m looking forward to working with you again in 2023.

“Squishy Minnie Bookstore in Kyneton is probablyone of the bestchildren’sbookstores around. Awonderful collection.”– Lisa Chesters

,byemail members@u3akyneton.org.au or call Roni on 0439 360 763.

Preserving history Preesserving y

Community organisations have achance to to tap into state government funding to preserve and share local history.

The latest round of the Local History Grants Program has $350,000 available in grants of up to $15,000.

The program funds community-based organisations to tell the stories of their communities, preserve significant historical collections and increase opportunities for public engagement with the past.

The Local History Grants Program is managed by Public Record Office Victoria.

Applications for grants close on Monday, January 30.

For more information and to apply for funding go to: prov.vic.gov.au

Bodyinthe

Gisborne and Mount Macedon Districts Historical Society has awealth of information about the pioneering days of the area.

An avid Express reader has drawn our attention to the society’s pre-Christmas quarterly newsletter.

Maybe those involved at the time did not find the episode recounted from the records of the Sanatorium on Mount Macedon as humorous, but time marches on and there may well be adifferent perspective nowadays.

This is what occurred:

There was adeath of one of the patients at the hospital and the undertaker and cabinet maker, Mr Duncan Simpson of Woodend, was asked to take the body away.

He came in the evening with his wagon and aman to help him load the wagon. This they did and drove down the mountain.

When they got to the hotel, they became thirsty and went in and had afew drinks, not bothering to look and see if the box with the body was still on the wagon. When they came out to their surprise it was not, and so asearchwas made for thebox but to no avail was it found.

They thought that someone was playing ajoke on them and finally they were convinced that no one was and so turned around to go back to the hospital.

Meanwhile afunction was being held

in the local hall and some of the staff from the hospital were attending this and when they were walking back, they came to where Sangster’s Nursery was and found in the middle of the road abox with aman sitting up in it. There was alot of screaming etc and some took to the bush.

The road there was acorduroy road made with saplings laid across the road and it was very rough. When the wagon crossed the very rough road it had caused the box to fall off.

Rigor mortis had set in causing the body to go stiff and sit up.

Then along came Mr Simpson and his mate and when the horse saw the body it shied and threw the mate off the wagon into some bushes growing on the side of the road as the horse wanted to go back from where they had come from.

When everything had settled down and Mr Simpson had the corpse in the box and back on the wagon they started off to Woodend.

However, Mr Simpson’s troubles were not yet over as the relations of the dead man, when they heard about what had happened, refused to pay the funeral expenses.

NOTE: The historical society has historical pictorial books of Gisborne, Mount Macedon and Hanging Rock for sale and these could make ideal Christmas presents.

Square dancing in Kyneton in 1954. Photo courtesy of Kyneton Historical Society

Amodern update couldn’t fall out of this wagon!

An absolute paradise

Set with rural views and leafy gardens, this renovated 1940s art deco farmhouse offers awarmly styled and almost never-ending interior with generous living zones and four double bedrooms that all feature modern timber windows that frame agarden outlook.

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

There is acosy office-library room with gas fireplace, adjoining lounge-dining with wood fireplace and french doors to alarge decked entertaining area, separate multi-purpose family room with reverse cycle air and

doors to acovered alfresco zone, and alaundry with good built-in storage.

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

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

Landmark 19th century Kyneton residence

Timeless style and ameticulous renovation program combine in this landmark 19th century Kyneton residence, set on a2090 sqm (half-acre) garden allotment in the centre of town.

Framed by century old oak and elm trees, and bordered by portuguese laurels and camellias there is astrongconnection to the landscape with stunning garden vistas at every turn, and the home skilfully marries original Victorian elements with the lightness and transparency of modern construction.

In the formal living room, the hand finished painted ceiling is astriking counterpoint to the powder blue walls and baltic pine floorboards, while the Victorian era joinery and marble mantlepiece add further texture.

The contemporary, open plan entertainer’s kitchen, informal living and dining area employs extensive double glazing to let light permeate throughout as well as offering a reassuring line of sight for watching children

at play around the beautifully landscaped gardens and inground heated pool.

Featuring amarble top island bench as well as electric European appliances, the kitchen is bridged by an adjacent sitting room which adds to the grandeur of the home with generously proportioned and beautifully highlighted ceilings.

Wrapped around the central bathroom, there are three generous bedrooms with the master featuring an exquisite ensuite and walk in robe and double doors that engage with the garden and the landscape beyond.

Arecently converted garden shed doubles as apool house, home office or guest bedroom and retains the original shingles and trusses as avisual connection to the past.

Equally, the fully insulated double garage borrows from the design elements of the original gable end of the home, reinforcing the design brief to be practical as well as beautiful.

121 WalshesRoad, Woodend

81 Dalton Street, Gisborne

2Edna Walling Boulevard,Woodend

BayntonRoad, Kyneton

90 Dalton Street,Gisborne

13 PiperStreet, Kyneton

Startyour next chapter

What abeauty to start your next chapter in life!

Charming, classy, comfortable and positioned for lifestyle excellence in apeaceful locale and opposite anatural reserve. Convenience is assured just ashort stroll to the centre of the township, this superb home exhibits a wonderful design, young and contemporary the residence has everything in place without putting in the hard yards. Aneutral palette with inspired finishes span throughout the

thoughtfully conceived floorplan, each zone is unique and curated to showcase spacious light-filled living. Sophisticated kitchen designed for effortless entertaining, equipped with stone benchtop configured to cater for any culinary occasion. An inspection will offer aglimpse on how good lowmaintenance living can be in this boutique town of Woodend. Call Cherie Graf to arrange aprivate inspection on 0407 923 686.

Property: Four-bedroomcontemporary home Address: 5F Urquhart Street,Woodend Price: $1,265,000

Agent: Raine and Horne Woodend Contact: Cherie Graf on 0407 923686

the kitchen with Caesarstone benches, walk-in pantry,900mm oven and a dishwasher.Thereisafamily bathroom, separate toilet and laundry.The level grounds and gardens featureadouble garage with remote door and direct access to the home. Thereisaside parking space with room for acaravan, plus acovered alfresco area and private fenced gardens.

–usedfor Air BnB.

INSPECT BY APPOINTMENT

BASSETT -John

The Castlemaine BowlingClubwish to express their deepest sympathies to the family and friends of the late John Bassett.

John wasamuch valueddirector, playerand member of the club He will be sadly missed by all who knewhim

BASSETT —John

We were saddened to hear of the passing of John. AvaluedTrust Member and friend. Condolences to Brendan and Hadley.

—Chairman and members of Muckleford Cemetery Trust

CURTIS -Lloyd

‘Grumpy’

The soul mateofBet for63years

Youwereour Atticus Finch from ‘ToKill aMocking Bird’, Our Matthew from ‘Anne of Green Gables’, Our Papa from ‘The Book Thief’ Atrueand loving Gentle-man. We are saddened to our bones with your passing But we will cherish your spirit in our hearts and souls forever. Love youbeyond words Your children Pete,Jen and Chris and Jim. Your grandchildren Rose, Lyndon, Iliah, Callan, Ollie,Lulu, Ethan and Nate

(Scott)

Loveddaughter of John and Esther Scott (both dec).

Lovedsister of Joyand John, and sister in lawofStan and Gwen.

Will be sadly missed

KN269003/L

SANDWITH

Funeral Mass for Mrs. Bessie Sandwith will be held at Our Lady of theRosary Catholic Church, 53 Ebden Street Kyneton, on THURSDAY (22nd Dec. 2022) at 1.30 p.m.

BISHOP -Nancy

The Bishop famly, Ian, Kaye and Daryl, would liketothank all the lovely people, friends and relatives who came alongto giveNancy a wonderful send off on November 3rd.

TIMMINS John

Dossie,Lisaand Donna would liketo thank all our friends and family forflowers,

KN268931/L

Deaths/Funerals

Private Cremation Those unable to attend arewarmly invited to join the service vialivestream on Bessie’s eTribute at tjscottandson com.au

Thank youalso for the cards,letters and phone calls.Verymuch appreciated.

In Memoriam

KN268937/L

JoanAlma Jenkin 18.4.1937 -18.12.2022

KN268977/L

Special thanks to John, Kelly and all staff at TJ Scott &Son KN268970/L

God grant us mercy in our griefand our remembering that Lifeiseternal. Peace and Joytoyou in blessed Light.

Children: Deborah, Christopher,Ashley. (ma: Darryl) G.children: Edward, John, Eamon, Marcus and Leigh. (ma: Jordan) GG.children: Cohen and Henry.

The Funeral service forDelphine will be held in Christ Church (Anglican) Mostyn Street, Castlemaine TODAY(Tuesday) at 2.30pm. Feel free to wear flamboyant artist's colours

Dearly loved Husband of Valma (Dec). Loving Father of Brendan. Doting Grandfather of Hadley Awell knownand loved local man,with adeep community connection.

The Funeral Service for John will be held at the CommunityCentre, Elizabeth Street, Campbells Creek, TODAY (Tuesday) commencing at 2pm. At the conclusionofthe Service,Johnwill be laid to rest at the MucklefordCemetery

It waswith deep sadness that we said goodbye to our belovedDennis Grant.

Dennis wasthe loving husband of Pamela (dec), much lovedfather of Joy, Linda, Tony and Neil.

He wasalovinggrandfather to Dale,Emma, Scott, Nikki, Tom, Lewis and Alex.

Loving Great Grandfather to Taylah, William, Ollie and Jackson. Lovedson of Tom(Thomas) and Martha Grant (both dec).

He will be foreverinour hearts, nowre-united with mum.

In keepingwith Dennis’ wishes, aprivate funeral has been held.

Passed away peacefully with family by her side after abattle with Parkinsons over the last 10 years.

BelovedwifeofRon (dec), loving mother of Kerrie and Glenn and mother in lawofMurray. Grandmother of Mathew, Damien and Nicole Great Grandma Joan of Aurora, Harper and Luna. Will be sadly missed by all who knewher xxxxx

Mum, watching youleave this world wasverydifficult butdefinitely the best thing foryou. Parkinsons has forced youtoleave your belovedhome and go into care which is not exactlyyour lifeplan. Things will neverbethe same without you. Reunited with your beloved"Ronnie" foryour wedding anniversary. Lots of Love Kerrie and Murray xxxx Mum, glad we got achance to talk and saygoodbye.Thinking of youalways. Love Glenn xxxx

Such akind and gentle soul, Grandma, youwill be missed, butcan nowfinallybeatpeace Love Mathew and Harper xxxx Grandma youwereveryspecial to us Your love and the happymemories you have given us mean so much. Will miss youforever. Damien, Nicole,Aurora and Luna xxxx

AService of Thanksgiving forJoan’slife will be held in the Uniting Church, Lyttleton Street, Castlemaine on Friday23rdDecember at 2.00pm. Aprivate burial willbeheld prior to this service

The service will be livestreamed forthose unable to attend.

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

LEYSHAN —Robert 11.12.2013 You are always in our thoughts and forever in our hearts. Love Mum.

KOFOED Wayne Kenneth Thorson 19.10.1949 ~08.12.2022

Loving Dad to Belinda &Adrian; Darrell, Daniel &Fern; David, Jessica, Laura &Andy; &Adam. Dear Pa to Kane, Teah, Molly,Ebony,Jed, Bella, Lucy, Daisy &Billy. Soulmate of Irene. GoodMate to many Restinpeace. The Funeral for Wayne washeldonSunday, December 18th 2022 at the Fryerstown Cemetery.

CURTIS Lloyd Walker

The FuneralService for the late Mr.Lloyd Walker Curtis will be held at the Thompson Memorial Chapel, 123Mostyn Street, Castlemaine on Wednesday, December 28th 2022 commencing at 11am.

At the conclusion of the Service,Lloyd will be laid to rest at the Castlemaine Cemetery

JoanAlma Jenkin

Casual and/or relief Position

Fantastic opportunity for aperson passionateabout making adifferencetothe lives of children. Noah’sArk is an innovativenot-for-profit community organisation providing early childhood intervention and inclusion support services to children with disabilities.

As aKindergarten Inclusion Support Assistant, youwill support the kindergarten’seducators to support the learning needs of all children, including those with adisability.

Demonstrated experienceworking with children and/or in a kindergarten setting would be an advantage.

Please email aresume and coverletterto rachael.hunter@noahsarkinc.org.au

Enquiries -Rachael Hunter on 0427 062569 Visit https://noahsarkinc.org.au/work-with-us/ for further info. We will assess applications as theyare received so

The Genius lives up to name

BillWest

Unraced galloper The Genius cost $370,000 and made hisdebut at the Kyneton Christmas Party races on Thursday.

The Genius, trained by Danny O’Brien and ridden by atop hoop in Blake Shinn, started as the shortest priced favourite of the day and won narrowly but well.

The course commentator referenced the big market move for The Genius, having been shown as a$3.40 chance in early markets for the Evolve Interiors Maiden Plate over 1450metres.

Shinn positioned the well-bred three-yearold back in the field and made hismove entering the straight, eventually winning by almost half alength from the very fast-finishing topweight Mac Kalhoun, also making his race debut.

After the race Shinn spoke highly about the colt’s potential, suggesting he will get better with distance, certainly up to around 2000 metres.

Later on the eight event program, O’Brien and Shinn combined to take out the Prendergast Earthmoving Maiden Plate over 1850 metres with another odds-on favourite, threeyear-old filly Majestic Style.

Ballarat-trained Regal Valour, ridden by Declan Bates, wonthe 1860 metreMidland Express Class 1Handicap.

Warrnambool trainer Peter Chow’s long trip to Kyneton paid off as his $21 chance Duke Of Neworleans, ridden by Jarrod Fry, finished strongly towin the Macedon Ranges Glass 0-64 Handicap over 1100m.

Champinsky, in the Kyneton stable of Liam Howley, was alate scratching after rider Jason Maskiell was dislodged prior to the seventh race and declared unfit to ride.

DEAD HEAT, LOSES IN WHIPPROTEST

My Yankee Girl, astar in the Tylden stable of John Salanitri, dead heated for first in the 1200m Festive Season Sprint but lost the race afterstewards lodged a protest against jockey Blake Shinn, alleging excessive use of the whip.

Town &District

GOLF results

KYNETON

There were plenty of good scores in Kyneton’s stableford event on Saturday.

Men’s A-grade –Mat Hodgkiss (7) 39 points, from David Moore (9) on 37. B–Damian Summers (18) 39 from Peter Walsh (16) 38. Ladies –Tracey Bramich (22) with 37, on acountback from Kylie Munro (30).

NTPs went to David Moore (2) and super pin, Hodgkiss, Julie Harris, Vicki Nettleton, Neil Watts and Noel Aldis (welcome back).

The best score in Wednesday’s stableford came from Tom May (8) with 37 points, from Paul Moore (25) with 34 on acountback. Ladies –Julie Harris (24) with 29.

The NTPs were May (2), Walsh and Harris.

The ladies held their breakup luncheon and presentation of the year’s major trophies on Tuesday.

There will be competitions through the Christmas break: Tuesday ladies; Wednesday men and ladies; Saturday –both men and ladies. Timesheets are up and open on MiScore.

LANCEFIELD

Afun pre-Christmas wind-up Ambrose as played on Saturday.

Winners were Troy Linehan (13), Nick Smith (19) and Matthew Darby (11) with 57.833, from Gary Dudderidge (9), Andrew Hall (10) and Ross Farrar (15) 59.333.

Tuesday Legends Denis Davenport (6) 32 points, from Peter McGill (10) 31.

Such was the success of the four-week junior clinic with 23 young participants in early spring the club is providing afollow-up with arefresher

clinic over three days (January 23 –25) with afollow-on clinic over several weeks to follow.

Those who are interested in registering keen juniors to learn the game of golf are asked to contact Andrew Hall by email on hall.andrew.a@edumail. vic.gov.au

In January, the Bendigo Bank is sponsoring aPar 3NTP event with cash prizes on all 18 holes. Don’t miss out –see website for details.

Committee and members wish to thank all the sponsors and volunteers who ensure the club continues to exist; avery Merry Festive Season to all.

MOUNT MACEDON

In perfect conditions on Saturday there was atie for the Ranges Medical monthly medal at Mount Macedon.

Tony Carter 79-16-63 and Sam White 80-17-63 excelled, with the former winning B-grade.

Bruce Fraser 78-9-69 was best in A-grade, best putter (26) and gross winner, with Jeremy Clare 88-23-65 taking out C-grade.

The Wednesday gentlemen competed for the Town Coast and Country Realty mug o’ the month last week.

Tony Littman (14) took home the mug and A-grade with 39 points, from Lachlan O’Gorman (16) on 38.

Mike Gorman (19) was best in Bgrade with 31, one ahead of Graham Bonzac (20).

ROMSEY

Two beautiful Saturdays in arow wassomething special at Romsey, with the Ambrose event beginning at 11am to enable presentations before the bowling club’s festivities at 5pm.

In excellent conditions there were plenty of cries of anguish when eagles

Finishing strongly under hard riding, My Yankee Girl overhauled Invincible Caviar right on the post.

It is the first time in Victorian racing history the stewards’ panel has stripped a race from arunner due to awhip indiscretion.

Shinn pleaded guilty, stated he had

misjudged the distance to the line, and said he felt sorry for the trainer and those who had supported My Yankee Girl.

He received a12-meeting suspension and was fined $2000, with My Yankee Girl being relegated to second place behind Invincible Caviar, ridden by Jamie Kah.

or birdies were missed.

Ultimate winners were Andrew and Toby Clement, Scott Williams and Davey Kenney with 64-7-57 from Mitch Atlas, Sherif Abdel-Sayed and Mick Nicholls Junior 72-12.3-57.3.

NTPs went to Nicholls Jnr and Snr, and Andrew Clement.

While several of the 2022 trophy winners could not be present, everyone enjoyed the afternoontea and presentations.

TRENTHAM

The wind played apart in Saturday’s event, with just nine of the 77 competitors managing to achieve par of better. Overall and C-grade winner was Alfredo Dean (28) with plus 3.

Garry Ford (12) and David Mika (13) were the respective Aand B-grade winners on +1.

Alex Evered won the women’s A-grade with anet 75, on acountback from Linda Marchesi, and Irene Kocisz’s 74 was best in B-grade.

The regular Friday night chicken run went to Simon Ovenden with 22 points, and there was also an impromptu barbecue for Christmas with the chance to farewell Claire Perston who will be teaching at Bateman’s Bay next year.

WOODEND

Superb conditions for Woodend’s stableford on Saturday, with president Barney Hearnden (8 handicap) producing his best to card 41 points.

Runner-up Brian Paton (21) came in with 40, and Guy Moxley (5)finished third on 38.

Plenty of golfers are looking forward to improving their game over the festive season, and there’s special events on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.

2022 RomseyGolf Club women’schampion JennyHartley with RGC captain Darlene Baker

2022 Algie Mitchell Shield winner Michael Nicholls Jnr with RGC captain Mal Mottram.

2022 Women’sElectric winner,Darlene Baker with past captain Lorraine Robb.

In the news jockeyBlake Shinn wins aboardThe Genius in Evolve InteriorsMaiden Plate at KynetononThursday.

Photo: PatScala/Racing Photos

Twoout of three for Berries

Malmsbury Cricket Club won two out of three matches on Saturday.

Allrounder Quentin Keeble was man of the match as the Berries outclassed Sunbury Kangaroos in Jensen Cup at Kyneton.

Kebble claimed 4-19 as the Kangaroos were dismissed for 74 runs from 24 overs., then followed up with aswift 58 (10 fours) from 38 balls as Malmsbury won in just 12 overs.

Successive wins going into the break has lifted confidence.

In division two tight bowling in the first 20 overs restricted Malmsbury to 0-53, then the tempo lifted to finish at 2/163 (Justin Murphy 89 not out, H. Tautkus 59.

Rupertswood batsmen scored at a good rate and made the required runs in 36 overs, with Stuart Orr and Chris Knott the pick of the bowlers.

In Club North the Berries snared two quick wickets and eventually dismissed Kilmore for 124 –D.Turner 2-18 and Webber 2-19.

Losing two early wickets, the Berries recovered to take the points (Turner 34, S. Rogers 28 not out, G. Yeomans 22) to climb into the top four.

AHappy Christmas to all.

FLOOD RELIEF MATCH

Atwilight cricket match at Gisborne’s Gardiner Reserve in late January will raise funds to help Malmsbury Cricket Club’s flood relief appeal

The night of cricket, food and fundraising on Wednesday, January 25, is being staged by the Gisborne District Cricket Association.

It’s achance to see some of ‘The Best of the GDCA’ in action with the first ball to be bowled at 7pm.

Malmsbury’s cricket ground and facilities was hit extremely hard in the severe flooding earlier this year.

Any organisations or individuals keen to become involved in this big relief effort can phone Simon on 0409 164 852 or Emma on 0477 993 441.

More details in the Express in the leadup to the match.

Christmas message

To all the members of the Ballarat Highlands Bowls Region, on behalf of the Board, Iwish you and your families all the best for the Christmas and New Year festive season.

For many among us these times may rekindle memories of sharing past times with loved ones that may have recently departed.

Please remember that there are always people around that you can depend on at this time. Also remember that the bowling fraternity is avaluable family that you can turn to if needed.

This time of the year also coincides with the halfway mark of the bowling season: For selectors it is about evaluating your club’s performance to date and what can be rescued and improved on in the second half of the bowling season; for bowlers it is aself-reflection on their performance to date and what they can do to improve in the second half of the season. Have you met your goals?

Itrust that you have an enjoyable break and should you be travellinat all over the break drive safely and return to us in January safe and sound.

Yours in Bowls, –Ian Guymer and the Region Board members.

Dynamic 167, and adoublehat-trick

Bill West

Anew addition to Romsey’s McIntyre Cup lineup hit ablistering 167 off just 104 balls, with 24 fours and four sixes, on Saturday.

This incredible effort from Tim Dale was followed by adouble hat-trick from Sunbury Kangaroos paceman Michael Fox –inthe last four balls of the Redbacks’ innings he skittled the stumps of captain-coach Ben Way, Darin Jewell, Louis Moor and Jamie Taylor. All were trying to hit Fox for six!

Romsey finished on 9/320 from 45 overs, after Dale and Taylor Stevenson had put on an opening stand of 250 runs.

Dale came to live and work in the Lancefield-Romsey area pre-season, and made a‘duck’ against Woodend in his only previous match with the Redbacks.

He has along and impressive record with Casey South Melbourne Cricket Premier League; he turned up at an early Redbacks’ practise session and indicated he was interested in playing locally.

Way said everyone was hopeful that Dale could play in the second half of the season, and in the finals –which the club has targeted.

“There’s no doubt aquality, experienced player like this can be areal asset,” Way said.

At one stage Stevenson was on 32 and Dale 37.

Way said in aremarkable period of play, Dale showed his array of strokes by advancing to 97 while Stevenson only faced one ball.

The Romsey coach, who played with Melbourne Cricket Club, said he discovered that Dale had opened the bowling against him in aPremier League match some years ago.

“It’s great to have Tim with us at Romsey,” Way added.

Fox finished with 6-52, then scored 41 as the Kangaroos were bundled out for 116 (C. Marienfield 4-11, A. Paterson 3-28).

GISBORNE ON TOP

Unbeaten Gisborne moved to the top of the McIntyre Cup ladder with acomfortable win, and Sunbury United lost for the first time this season.

Scores: Gisborne 8/280 c.c. (Mick Allen 57, R. Vernon 51, J. Vernon 45) d East Sunbury 8/150 (L. Watson 40 –Allen 3-18, R. Vernon 2-12); Woodend 104 (W. Else 28) lost to Diggers Rest/Bulla 2/105; Rupertswood 4/139 c.c. dWallan 138; Sunbury United 9/197 c.c. (U. Fernando 65) lost to Bacchus Marsh 3/198 (N. Strangio 86, B. Payne57).

In Johnstone Shield,Kyneton’s Tom Boyer has agreat afternoon with bat and ball.

Scores: Eynesbury 188 (C. Price 84

–Boyer 4-32, H. Ingleton 3-28) lost to Kyneton 3/189 (Boyer 93, M. Harrison 41): Romsey 7/191 c.c. (M. Richardson 55, A. Frost 50, D. Paterson 30 n.o. –W.Bobetic 3-31) lost to Macedon 5/192 (D. Trotta 82, M. Hewett 29 n.o., C. Walker 23 n.o.); Kilmore 9/204 dRiddell 91; Aintree 8/268 c.c dGisborne 8/154.

Diggers Rest 84 (A. Warne3-7)lost to Hanging Rock 3/87 (S. Zubrycki 30); Lancefield 7/205 c.c (H. Lehner 55, A. Sinclair 34, M. Docker 32) dStAnthonys 167 (D. Mallia- Hogan 3-7, Sinclair 3-24).

Amanda bitten by bowls bug

The first Ballarat Highlands Bowls Division women’s novice singles champion admits she “has been bitten by the bowls bug”.

Aveteran state basketballer at the highest level, Amanda Rayner took out the novice final with a21-7victory against Romsey’s Elizabeth Taylor.

Rayner only took up bowls due to the void in sports events following the COVID pandemic.

She said the love affair with bowls began in 2021 when she was driving past Diggers Rest Bowling Club with partner Paul Robinson. They are pleased they stopped.

“What started off for us has turned into asportingpassion where we both wan to get better and play bowls all the time,” she said.

At Diggers Rest, the newcomers received plenty of helpful advice and have made considerable progress with tuition from David and Tricia Odgers.

The novice finals were played at Webbcona in Ballarat.

Rayner and Robinson are keen to play in district tournaments at other clubs and see how far they can go in the sport.

Macedon Johnstone Shield captain Daniel Trotta hitfoursixes in scoring 82 against Romsey on Saturday. Macedon wonwith an over to spare

Fine skies and close clos bouts in CDCA

Castlemaine District Cricket Association senior sides contested round six matches on Saturday, while CGrade (Under 16) sides completed day two of round seven. Highlights of the round were Harcourt A Reserve batsman Harley Brereton's 96 not out and the pick of the bowlers were Muckleford AReserve Marty Sharples with 5-22 and Maiden Gully Marist AGrader Nathan Francis with 5-23.

AGrade

Round 6

Hepburn 106 (C Pedley 34; BHenderson 4-26, DA Semmens 3-23, MNoonam 2-26) lost to Barkers Creek 3-107 (DA Semmens 36 not out).

Muckleford 7-242(cc) (EG Gingell 91, BCole32, DPeckham30; LChaffey 3-37, SWinnard 3-48) dNewstead 6-230(cc) (S Winnard 67 not out, BWalter 41, DJ

Christmas 34; BWright2-54)

Maiden Gully Marist 3-191(cc) (T Bubb 58 not out, DTrew46) dGuildford 120 (N Webster 43; NFrancis 5-23, JMorgan 3-21). Castlemaine United had the bye.

AReserve

Round 6

Barkers Creek 9-159(cc) (N Anderson 44, JAnderson 36 not out; DMaerz 3-35, SLearmonth 2-17, MMaerz 2-30) lost to Taradale 3-160 (L Maltby 68 not out, T Rogers 44 not out).

Harcourt 4-228(cc) (H Brereton 96 not out, LMika36, SThompson 33 not out; O Brasher 2-22) dNewstead 111 (O Brasher 38; BGibbs 4-15, HBrereton 2-17, KTrollop 2-42).

Guildford 63 (M Sharples 5-22, DEnvall 3-15) lost to Muckleford 7-185(cc) (DZ Slingo 52, MSharples 38; KGellaty 3-25).

North Castlemaine 3-123 (A Ferres 37 not out; ABommareddy2-15) dCastlemaine United 120 (G McMurtrie 30; J Howarth 3-15, KBeer 2-15, DHinck 2-20).

Maiden Gully Marist had the bye.

BGrade Round 6

Maiden Gully Marist 8-151(cc) (R Douglas 40 not out; DBaker 3-21, CBaker 3-49) dCastlemaine United Blue 7-150(cc) (L Bester 67 not out).

Guildford 9-146 (R Webster 31; D Keogh Frankling 2-22, BMuscat 2-27, K Simmons 2-31) lost to Harcourt 8-200(cc) (M Simmins 70, OBloomfield 38; JBoykett 3-33, RWebster 2-28).

Muckleford Gold 8-108(cc) (M McEachran 39; DBrasher 2-7, NGrainger 2-7, PBrasher 2-15) vCastlemaine United Gold 3-112(cc) (D Brasher 58 not out).

Newstead 158 (G Chapman 83, MAllen 31; CEdwards 3-7, CButcher 2-26) lost to Muckleford Maroon 9-176(cc) (T Butcher 69, CTingay 65; AKelly 3-20,G Chapman 2-31, RMuscat 2-40).

CGrade/ Under 16 Round 7, Day Two

Castlemaine United Blue 2-237(cc) (SE Brasher 52 not out, DBrasher 51 not out, HKneebone 37 not out) dNewstead 6-165 (FJ Gardner 82; DBrasher 3-40).

North Castlemaine/Guildford 141 (Z Hinck 46, MMatheson 31; LWaddington 3-22) lost to Muckleford 6-169(cc) (T Smith 50 not out, JSmith 30 not out; JAnderson 2-18).

Harcourt 8-177 (M Chamberlain 57, JArcher 55 not out; MPerrett 2-19) d Castlemaine United Gold 4-176(cc) (J Nuttall 54 not out, GO'Sullivan 46).

Over 60s to Gisborne pair

The final of the Ballarat Highlands men’s over 60s regional bowls championship last week was an all-Gisborne affair.

Played at Ballarat North Bowling Club, the match between Tim Rogers and Terry Kelly (s) and Vic Foxford and David Beardmore (s) attracted considerable interest.

And the contest was afluctuating affair with prevailing gusty winds challenging the bowlers’ line throughout.

Rated by many as the favourites, Rogers-Kelly opened up a6-2 lead after six ends only to see the resilient Foxford-Beardmore combination grab four shots on the tenth end to take the lead.

Buoyed with their position, FoxfordBeardmore maintained their composure to win three of the final five ends to secure aworthy 13-9 victory.

The women’s final between two Ballarat area pairs was won 13-0 by Jill Hopper and Debbie Gorin (Victoria Bowling Club) against the sister combination of Julia Holton and Elizabeth Kierce.

In one semi-final, the eventual winners edged out Gisborne’s Vicki Noble and Louise Ball (s) 14-13.

The men’s and women’s triples finals were played at Kyneton Bowling Club on Sunday.

After the final (from left): Runners-up TerryKellyand Tim Rogersand Ballarat Highlands Over 60s champions

David Beardmore and Vic Foxford.

Photo: AnthonyMcCabe

The Castlemaine United Blue CGrade side gotout to acommanding lead on dayone,despite the best efforts of the Newstead bowlers(pictured) and the Steaderswere unable to chase down the targetlast Saturday. Photo: Max Lesser

Ourbest wishes to