Midland Express Tuesday 22 November 2022

Lyons pride

Full

Road danger ‘ignored’

Anew housing development in Harts Lane, Kyneton, has the potential to result in aserious road accident, nearby residents fear.

Anine-lot subdivision approved by Macedon Ranges Shire Council proposes an access road positioned downhill from asteep rise on Harts Lane, where the current speed limit is 100km/h.

The residents say it risks acollision between vehicles exiting the subdivision and fast-moving traffic coming over

the rise towards them.

“To brake from 100km/h, it takes about 98 metres, that’s on aflat dry road, but awet sloping road you could probably add another 20 or 30 metres to that,” local resident Gerald Swinnerton said.

“We’ve spent alot of time putting up suggestions to relocate the access road and we’ve been totally ignored.

“(The council has) acknowledged that we’ve sent them information but they haven’t spoken to the recommendations and suggestions that we made in any way at all.”

The residents say Harts Lane carries alarge amount of

‘cut-through’ traffic and the development will only add to this. They say the intersection of Harts Lane and Burton Avenue is already dangerous with no turn off from Burton Avenue and aspeed limit of 100km/h on both roads.

“The left-hand turn into Harts Lane needs to be made more friendly, the speed limit’s too high, we need to have 60km/h not 100,” resident Ann Gilbert said.

Council’s director of planning and environment, Rebecca Stockfeld, said six objections had been received in response to the application.

Continued page 4

Lyons Will Estate has won atop accolade at this year’s Victorian Wine Show where the little Lancefield winery was named ‘Best Small Producer’. Pictured are proprietors and winemakers, Ollie Rapson and Renata Morello.

story, page 7.

Angela Crawford

Car crushed by tree

A75-year-old Rochford woman was killed and apassenger injured when a 30-metre-tall gum tree fell onto their car in Newham.

The couple was travelling on South Rock Road last Thursday afternoon when the tree fell.

The male passenger was able to climb from the car and was taken to Royal Melbourne Hospital in astable condition.

Emergency services, including the SES and local fire brigades, were quickly on the scene using chainsaws to remove the huge

tree, which was tightly wedged across the road pinning the car underneath.

Leading Senior Constable Brian Smith of the Macedon Ranges Highway Patrol said it could only be described a tragic accident.

“We can’t police these incidents, because of the weather and the rains we’ve had, the tree just uprooted and came crashing down,” he said.

“Every road in the Macedon Ranges has got arow of trees like that, it could have happened anywhere, anytime.”

Aged care facility approved forGisborne

A96-bed residential aged care facility has been approved for Gisborne.

Development planned for 159 Willowbank Road includes landscaping, access, removal of native vegetation and realignment oftwo existing lots.

The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal determined the application following Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s failureto makeadecision within the prescribed time.

MRSC submitted that had it made adecision, it would have refused the proposal, as it considered the proposal did not suitably avoid and minimise impacts to native vegetation.

The council accepted the proposal was well supported bypolicy framework, which aims for residential aged care to be located within urban residential areas within proximity of shops, services and transport.

MRSC did not oppose the development for anyreason of adverse amenity impacts.

VCAT member Alison Glynn found, on balance, she was satisfiedthat net community benefit was derived from the proposal. The permit was granted with conditions.

LSC Smith said abranch had fallen onto the road moments before the accident, and the car had moved to avoid it when the whole tree came down.

Adriver in another vehicle travelling behind the victim witnessed the incident.

The road was closed until the following morning with VicRoads calling in arborists to assess surrounding trees.

The road around the picturesque Hanging Rock is apopular tourist drive and is lined with large trees, many battered by recent rains and high winds.

Emergencyservices personnel attend the sceneofthe accident. Photo: Brian Wilson, ietsystems.com.au

Four-bin win

Macedon Ranges Shire Council has achieved the highest diversion of resources from landfill in the state and been awarded for its innovative four-bin system at the Waste and Innovation Recycling Awards.

The initiative won the regional category of most Outstanding Waste and Resource Recovery Project, which is awarded to a project that has delivered cost-effective and high-impact success in its targeted field.

“We have already seen asignificant change in the way our residents are both considering the refuse, reduce, reuse and repair mentality,” mayor Jennifer Anderson said.

“When they do need to dispose of items they have embraced the kerbside four-bin system to maximise recycling, significantly

reducing the amount of material going to landfill.”

MRSC was one of the first councils in Victoria to introduce the four-bin waste and recycling system in February 2020.

The shire has also implemented the recycling system at Hanging Rock Reserve.

Within two years of the four-bin roll-out, MRSC has achieved the highest diversion of resources from landfill of any council in Victoria since the system was introduced—with a74per cent diversion rate.

It was also one of the first councils in Australia to introduce aseparate kerbside glass bin collection service. Since its implementation, more than 4689 tonnes of glass has been recycled.

From page 1

“The application was referred to the Department of Transport and reviewed by council’s engineers,” Ms Stockfeld said.

“The Department of Transport and council engineers recommended conditions contained in the Notice of Decision to Grant aPlanning Permit that address road safety and traffic management.”

Recommended conditions include an upgrade to the intersection of Burton Avenue and Harts Lane and areduction in the speed limit on Burton Avenue to 80km/h.

Ms Stockfeld said that while council had

made adecision to issue aplanningpermit for the subdivision, concerned parties could challenge the decision at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

The rate paying residents of Harts Lane, however, say they cannot justify the significant legal fees that action would require.

“Such costs could have been avoided has the Shire of Macedon Ranges had the courtesy to answer our objections,” Mr Swinnerton said.

“This looks like aploy by the council to avoid scrutiny.”

Residents of Harts Lane at Kyneton stand at the location of a proposed access road to anew housing development.

Rider injured in high-speed crash

Amotorcyclist riding astolenbike was hospitalised with serious injuries after he crashed into apole at alevel crossing in Woodend last Wednesday.

The disqualified male rider, a30-year-old male from Pyalong, was riding east on Tylden-Woodend Road about 2pm when he lost control of the motorcycle and struck alevel crossing warning light pole, splitting the bike in two.

The rider was thrown some distance from the initial impact point landing near the southbound railway tracks.

V/Line trains were delayed due to the collision scene.

The rider was airlifted from the scene with multiple fractures and internal injuries and remains in hospital in acritical but stable condition.

The matter is currently under police investigation with speed and impairment being amajor contributing factor to the collision.

The rider is to be charged with multiple traffic and crime-related offences.

“Motorcycle excessive speed and rider inexperience are still key drivers of motorcycle road trauma,” said Sergeant Justin Embleton-Smith of Gisborne Police.

“Police within the Macedon Ranges will be engaged in road policing throughout the area to influence rider/driver behaviours.”

Reserve upgrade given green light

The Campbells Creek Recreation Reserve Master Plan has been adopted after receiving unanimous support from Mount Alexander Shire councillors.

After receiving only 12 survey responses to its recent community consultation regarding the proposed $7M upgrade, the council voted to adopt the three-stage plan. Stage one of the plan examines high-priority projects, such as new netball courts and upgraded amenities, to be completed over the next four years. Its estimated cost of $2,513,546 will be included in futurecouncil budgets, with the council to also explore external funding opportunities.

Cr Christine Henderson said amaster plan for the reserve had come to the council 12 years ago and was seen to be the most difficult and improbable of all the plans for the region.

“And then suddenly, magically it seems, the way has been made plain and there has been fantastic communication with the local community and users,” Cr Henderson said.

“There’s averydoable master plan with very doable priorities.”

Cr Tony Cordy said the master plan was arealopportunity for Campbells Creek.

“While we don’t have all the funds for what we have to do, it’s basically aroadmap to move forward with projects,” he said.

“It means we’ve got adocument to seek the additional funds we need.”

The second stage includes carpark upgrades, pavilion construction, and disc golf course installation. This stage is expected to take place in four to eight years, with an estimated cost of $3,475,519.

The final stage of the master plan outlines proposed upgrades to the oval lighting, new cricket training nets, and an upgraded rotunda. These works are expected to cost $1,228,875 including an escalation allowance and design and construction contingency.

“Having spoken to alot of people in the Campbells Creek community, Ithink there have been some historic feelings they have been left out, in favour of development in Castlemaine,” mayor Rosie Annear said.

“I think this is such agreat step forward for us to show the residents of Campbells Creek that we have not forgotten about them and we are committed to making sure they have asafeand serviceable place to play, work and be with their kids.”

Police attend the accident scene at Woodend on Wednesday.

Wendy Lovell MP Member for Northern Victoria Region

Amanda Millar Liberalfor Northern Victoria Region

Jill Merkel Liberalfor Northern Victoria Region

Voters head to the polls early

The Victorian Electoral Commission has urged people to vote early to make their mark on this year’s state election as COVID-19 cases ramp up.

Victorians sick with coronavirus on election day will need to vote at apolling booth while infectious or miss out on casting their ballot and register their positive test to avoid afine.

Previous arrangements for people ill with the virus to vote by phone in the federal election do not apply in November following changes to isolation rules.

Early voting centres opened in Kyneton, Gisborne and Castlemaine on November 14 and will remain open right up until election day.

Macedonballotdraw

Eight candidates are vying for theseatof Macedon. Theballot draw reads in the following order:

1. Dominic Bonanno (Liberal)

2. Marley McRae McLeod (Australian Greens)

3. Mary-Anne Thomas (Labor)

4. Huntly Barton (independent)

5. Kerryn P. Sedgman(Freedom Party of Victoria)

6. Chris McCormack (Family FirstVictoria)

7. Amanda Evezard (Pauline Hanson’s One Nation)

8. IrisBergmann (Animal Justice Party)

Bendigo West ballot draw

Nine candidates arevying forthe seatof Bendigo West. The ballotdrawreads in the following order:

1. Steve Serpell (FamilyFirst)

2. Ken Price(Liberal)

3. Victoria Maxwell (Animal Justice Party)

Vote this Saturday andhelp shape Victoria

When

Small ballot paper for theLowerHouse You must number ALL the boxes on this ballot paper Put the number 1 n the box next to the candidate you most want to see elected Then number all the other boxes in the order of your choice

Large ballot paperfor the UpperHouse For the Upper House you can vote in one of two ways Either vote for a party or group by putting the number 1 n ust one of the boxes above the l ne Or vote for ind vidua candidates by putting the numbers 1 to at least 5 in the boxes be ow the l ne You may continue numbering more than 5 if you wish

Wheretovote

Whocan

4. Marilyn Nuske (independent)

5. RichardJames Woolley (Freedom Party)

6. Matt Bansemer (independent)

7. Maree Edwards (Labor)

8. James Searle (Greens)

9. Wayne Taylor (Legalise Cannabis)

Earlyvoting

Earlyvoting centres areopenatthe 1st Gisborne Scout Hall, 63 Howey Street,Gis borne, and at 4/52Saleyards Road, Kyneton, the rearofOutland Gym

Castlemaine residents cancast their vote at the former ANZ Bank building at 57 Mostyn Street.

The following dates and times apply:

Tuesday November 22, from 8.30am to 6pm

Wednesday November 23,from8.30amto 6pm Thursday November 24,from 8.30amto 8pm

FridayNovember 25, from 8.30amto6pm Election day is November 26.

Bendigo West District

Campbells

Brantome Street)

(access

sborne South (LNWA)

Secondary Co lege

Me ton Road Kyneton (IWA Kyneton Toyota Sports Aquat c Centre 4 Vic oria Street Kyneton East (LNWA Sacred Heart Co lege Kyneton Corner Ross Street and Begg Street Lancefield (LNWA) Lancef e d Pr mary School 80 Park Street (access v a Park Street Macedon (LNWA) Macedon Pr mary Schoo 67 Smith Street (access via Margaret Stree ) Malmsbury (LNWA) Malmsbury Pr mary Schoo

Euroa District

Earlyvoting centres in Kyneton, Gisborne and Castlemaine will remain open right up until election day.

Lyons Will Estate has won atop accolade at this year’s Victorian Wine Show where it was named ‘Best Small Producer’.

The little Lancefield winery also won ‘Best Riesling Award’ at the show.

Proprietors and winemakers, Ollie Rapson and Renata Morello, are thrilled to have received such coveted accolades and are excited to have been recognised for their hard work nearly 10 years after establishing the winery.

“We are super proud and excited to have been this year’s winners for not just one but two excellent trophies,” Renata said.

“The riesling block is alabouroflovethat we planted nine years ago and we just love it. It produces fantastic wine and it feels really at home here in the Macedon.

“We feel riesling has ahugefuture in the region and Ifeelespecially proud winning this award as it’s avariety Ifeel really passionate about.”

Winning the gong for ‘Best Small Producer’ is amilestone in the eyes of the owners, who are proud to be regarded in such good light.

“We work extremely hard in trying to produce the best possible quality across all our wines, to be recognised for that, in ashow that contains some of Victoria’s best, is just superb,” Ollie said.

“We feel really privileged to be able to not only grow our own fruit here in the Macedon but make it all onsite, its something we feel strongly about as its atruereflection of our home, the wines have their own identity that’s for sure.”

Fete de la Fleur

Lyons Will will be showcasing this wine and others at their inaugural ‘Fete de la Fleur’ event on December 4inanafternoon of food, wine and music in the winery’s sunny courtyard.

With its origins in the French wine region of Bordeaux, Fete de la Fleur is acelebration of vineyard flowering. What happens within the vineyard during this time has a huge influence on the harvest ahead and it’s atime worth revelling in.

Lorena Corso of Sig Enzo in Brunswick will be cooking aSicilian barbecue in the courtyard.

During the lockdowns of 2021, Lorena embraced cooking outdoors and particularly cooking over charcoal, holding anumber of

casual open-air lunches on the streets of Brunswick.

She’ll be bringing this flair for the great outdoors to Lyons Will Estate with amouthwatering menu planned.

Think crusty bread filled with Sicilian sausages made to Lorena’s own recipe, Lyons Will grown lamb, smoky roasted eggplant, generous shared vegetable dishes and, of course, Lorena’s inimitable pickles and there will be live music to take you through the day.

Established in 2013, Lyons Will Estate is afamily owned, estate-based vineyard producing premium cool climate wine from the varietals pinot noir, chardonnay, riesling and gamay.

Renata and Ollie are driven every day by the satisfaction that comes with sharing the fruits of their labour with friends, family and customers.

And what better way to present their wines than accompanied by beautiful food!

Fete de la Fleur will be taking place at Lyons Will Estate on December 4withseatings at 12pm, 1pm and 2pm.

Ticket: $55 per adult, $35 per child. Ticket includes food and musical entertainment.

Wine tastings are available for $15 per person or for purchase by the glass or bottle.

Bookings via: lyonswillestate.com.au/ events

Lorena Corso of Sig Enzo in Brunswickwill be cooking aSicilian barbecue forLyons Will Estate’sinaugural ‘Fete de la Fleur’ event.

Photo: Chloe Smith Photography

Record turnout

Crowds flocked to the weekend’s Kyneton Show, smashing attendance records.

More than 8000 people attended over the two days, with numbers up more than a third on the last show three years ago.

“It was the combination of the fact that the show is loved so much and people had been looking forward to it for so long,” Kyneton Agricultural Society secretary, Josephine Rutledge, said.

Attendance for the Friday night carnival was double the last show.

“The atmosphere was electric. It was absolutely amazing with the great weather,” Ms Rutledge said. “People just loved being back together and being at the showgrounds and enjoying everything that we put on for them.”

Numbers

year.

“It had no impact. It was amazing, the children running through the parkour soaking wet, just having the time of their life and that’s what’s so great about acountry show. They didn’t care about getting wet,” Ms Rutledge said.

There were also record entries across the traditional pavilion competition with 2571 individual items entered from flowers to fleeces.

Ag society president, Andrew Ferrington, said the pavilion competition was a highlight.

“It’s just great to see, the work that gone

The LEGO competition has become so popular it now has its own pavilion, which was ahit with crowds who marvelled at 200 entries of all size and subject from entrants of all ages.

“What an extraordinary effort, from the volunteers, from the people who put entries in, to all the people who came to the show, you know rain hail or shine we had it all,” Mr Ferrington said.

“People come from Melbourne and we even had Queenslanders here, but it’s a microcosm of the town and the district,” he said. “It’s about the community being in one place at one time. It was amazing.”

*See more photos, page 30.

The first tie in the show’s160 yearsinthe pet parade competition. Emma Osman-schroen with her lamb and MacyHolmes with her calf,both named Millie.Photo:Sloane Griffin

were also up by 1000 on the Saturday with more than 5000 people through the gates despite wet weather and the horse competition delayed until early next

into the smallest detail to the biggest items like atwo-metre-square quilt and all the children’s creations,” he said.

Newmayor

Councillor Brian Hood will lead Hepburn Shire Council as mayor for thenext12 months with new deputy mayor Cr Lesley Hewitt.

Cr Hood was elected to the Coliban Ward in October 2020. An active community member, he is keen to see important projects completed, such as the Trentham Community Hub, and lead councillors to tackle key challenges, including high inflation, rising construction costs and repairs to roads.

Cr Lesley Hewitt was elected to represent theBirch Ward in October2020. She was mayor of Hepburn Shire from 2020 to 2021.

The pair take on the roles following outgoing mayor Cr Tim Drylie and former deputy mayor Cr Jen Bray.

Housing green lightfor Riddell

Ahotly debated 10-unit development for Riddells Creek got agreen light at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal last week.

Plans for the 4551sqm site at 4 Richardson Street had been disputed for overdevelopment and inconsistency with neighbourhood character.

The proposal had council officer approval but community dissent sparked an online campaign and 17 formal objections.

Residents aired fears the move would set aprecedent for the street that has two other similar undeveloped land parcels.

Strong community views played apartin Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s rejection of the application earlier thisyearina7-1 vote.

At the time, the application included 11 units, and councillors largely feltthe proposal was inconsistent with planning policy and neighbourhood character.

They were also concerned the proposal

would have an unreasonable burden on existing infrastructure of the area, including impacts on storm water and traffic.

However, VCAT member Katherine Paterson found the proposal was “an acceptable response to the provisions of the Macedon Ranges Planning Scheme”.

“The township has grown faster than anticipated, there is aneed for more additional housing to be provided within the township,” Paterson said.

“Whilst the proposal will introduce a number of dwellings into the streetscape, I find it does so in asensitive manner and will be acomfortable fit within the streetscape, and one that Ifindthatisgenerally consistent with the outcomes sought for this precinct and properties within the NRZ8.”

Paterson found there was “not astrong backyard character when balanced with the level ofchange anticipated for this area” and found the amenity impacts on neighbouring properties “notunreasonable”.

A10-unit development forRichardson Street atRiddells Creek has been approved at VCAT.

Council denies permit

Jade Jungwirth

Mount Alexander Shire councillors aired mixed views on the refusal of adouble-storey development and two-lot subdivision opposite picturesque bushland at Castlemaine.

The Parker Street application attracted 11 objections from across nine properties as well as council officer recommendation for refusal.

Council officer reservation was largely due to the design, appearance and layout not being in keeping with existing and preferred neighbourhood character.

Five councillors voted in favour of the motion to refuse the application, with Crs Stephen Gardner and Bill Maltby in opposition.

Cr Christine Henderson, who presented the motion, remarked on the importance of maintaining the neighbourhood’s character.

“This council’s strategic planning department is doing quite abit of work on neighbourhood studies in Castlemaine, Campbells Creek and Chewton in order to protect the neighbourhood character of our towns,” she said.

“This street is very precious and faces onto abit of public land.Ithink what we allow to be built on these streets is very important.

“I’m not saying we can’t have densification, but Ithink that what is proposed, with this big, bold, double-garage, semidetached, is totally inappropriate for that neighbourhood.”

Cr Gardner opposed the motion stating the site was in ageneral residential zone with no overlays and there was currently a brand new building next to the property.

“We’re living in atime when we’re encouraging social housing, more growth, etcetera, and on the other hand we’re say-

ing no you can’t split ablock up because we don’t like it,” Cr Gardner said.

“I must admit Iwas alittlebit surprised by the officer’s recommendation because Ido think it’s abit slanted towards what people have been objecting to when alot of the issues raised have been addressed in terms of the application.

“I don’t see how the council or councillors get to say it’s new; so it’s not good. The design is contemporary steel cladding, with wood. “To me, we’re not here to make adecision about other people’s taste in architecture.”

Cr Maltby also opposed the motion, highlighting the presence of alarge number of modern dwellings in the region and that modern architecture should be allowed.

“The fact is, it’s one dwelling in 30 or 40 houses. Yes, it’s amoderndwelling, but, two doors up is amodern dwelling. It’s not encroaching on bushland, it’s actually in the residential part of the street,” he said.

“Driving around Castlemaine and other towns, this dwelling won’t look out of place. In my opinion, it’s not going to ruin the streetscape.”

One of De Bortoli’s first

The planning permit proposes to tear down the existing house in Parker Street Castlemaine and subdivide the lot to include two, double-storey, modern buildings.

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 energy efficient 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).

Let’scelebrate

MainFM's Able Radio and Windarring Castlemaine are putting on aget together to celebrate International Day of People with Disability.

The event is on Friday December 2at the tea rooms in the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens, and celebrates the contributions and achievements of people with disability and promotes inclusion in the community.

Everyone is welcome to join in the festivities. Morning tea will be provided with a live music performance by Joe Smith and Benz.

MainFM’s Able Radio and Windarring DJ's will be spinning tunes plus artworks will be on display.

The dress code is Fancy and Fun, if you feel, but also come as you are. Bring smiles and your favourite song requests. There may be dancing, and even singing. If it rains, you'll be nice and dry in the tea rooms.

Able Radio is aprogram on MainFM

94.9 presented by people with disabilities and is for everyone.

Now in its third year, Able Radio contin ues to present adiverse and fun radio show with people with disabilities at the heart and centre of all programming.

As apartner organisation, Windarring Castlemaine have become an integral part of the show with clients making regular appearances as guest presenters and programmers.

The event will run from 10am until midday.

The venue has car parking available about 20m from the venue. There is wheelchair access. There are no stairs. There are accessible toilets close by. Companion dogs are welcome.

This is afree event but please register so the organisers know how many cakes to bake!

Register via Humanitix at events. humanitix.com/castlemaine-celebrates-international-day-of-people-with-a-disability

10,000 gigs

promised

Melbourne is the live music capital of the world, with one venue for every 8915 residents. That puts it ahead of other major cities renowned for their music scene, including Berlin, New York, London and Austin, Texas.

But the live music scene doesn’t stop at the edge of the CBD –our suburbs and regions are home to some of the most talented acts.

Are-elected Andrews Labor Government has vowed to get more artists back on-stage with a$34 millioninvestment in Victoria’s world-class live music industry.

The package will provide grants to musicians and festivals to support about 10,000 gigs over the next four years giving more performers astage and giving more Victorians the chance to see the live music they love.

And regional Victoria hasn'tbeenforgotten with are-elected Andrews Labor Government also committing to ensure at least 25 per cent of music festivals and live music gigs are held in regional Victoria.

Able Radio producer Poppyispictured with some guest presentersfromWindarring.

Upcycling award launched

TheGood Op Shop’s new community award, ‘The Better Shape Up Upcycling Award’, is encouraging people to make new things out of items that were destined for landfill.

Apanel of three judges recently decided the winner of the inaugural award’s three different award categories, but the People’s Choice vote is still open to the public until November 30.

To vote, head over to The Good Op Shop’s Facebook page to ‘like’ the photo of the entry that you think should win the $100 award. The image with the most likes will win.

The three categories were created to help Mount Alexander Shire people think: ‘what is the benefit of upcycling?’

The Emerald prize was for the item that resulted in the most waste reduction; the Silver prize was for the most interesting new idea or use of awaste item, and the Ruby prize was for the most artistic. The winner of each category won $300.

“We wanted to encourage people to see waste as something valuable. To see it as away to make something new, rather than as an item of rubbish,” said Tiffany Inglis, co-founder of The Good Op Shop. “And we’ve had some fantastic entries!”

The judging panel, Izzy Harrod (Castlemaine Secondary College representative), Sam Deal (local sculptor) and Ella Hughes (a local ceramicist), chose the winners from 18 entries.

“We had alot of fun talking about each entry and how it related to the criteria,” Ella said. “They were so interesting and inspiring.”

The Emerald Award went to Samantha Wittenberg who made arag rug entitled ‘Pink Sea Dream’ made from sheets, old clothes too worn to be used, cotton, acrylic and silk.

The Silver Award was given to Anj Neal who entered a doorstop called ‘Byrdjil’. It is made from the base of a20-year-old broken blender, discarded clothing, an old head massager, piece

of old irrigation, broken ball, offcuts of ribbon, old buttons, and bits of metal.

“I love the way everyone interpreted their entries so differently,” Izzy said, “And really thought about the impact that we are having on the environment.”

The Ruby Award was jointly won by Bev Lewis and Rhyll Plant. Bev’s underwear entitled ‘I’m Watching You’ is made from recycled clothing and old pillowcases; while Rhyll’s ‘Plane Sailing’ sculpture is made from an old wood plane, wooden op shop items, tent struts for masts, op shop cloth and string.

“The variety of entries was so impressive,” Sam said, “As was the creativity and detail that people went to.”

Media partnership

Castlemaine Fringe has announced an official media partnership with MainFM 94.9 for the 30th anniversary of Castlemaine Fringe Festival in 2023.

Festival chair Jacqueline Brodie-Hanns said they wre pleased to be joining forces with MainFM for next year’s event.

“We’ve got an exciting program in the works with the Shop Windows Art Tour happening again, Scrabble Battle, our epic Reactivate Street Party, gigs, performances, exhibitions and more, it’s going to be huge” Jacqueline said.

“MainFM is such abig part of our creative community and we’re so appreciative to have their support to help us promote the festival, and all the local artists that will be showcasing works,” she said.

In the lead up and throughout the festival season you can expect to hear information about all the activities, plus interviews with artists and musicians on 94.9MainFM.

ART AUCTION SATURDAY

Excitement is building for the Castlemaine Fringe Art Auction at The Taproom this Saturday November 26 at 5pm.

The Art Auction is the Fringe’s major fundraising event with funds going towards delivery of the festival in 2023.

“We have more than 60 local and established artists contributing works that will be available to the public for auction,“ Jacqueline said.

“The auction continues to grow, is agreat

way to secure yourself apiece of local art and is always alively afternoon with atouch of friendly competition to keep things interesting,” she said.

The art auction is also agreat way to support local talent as 50 per cent of sales go back to the artists.

Expect live music and roving performances with food and drinks for purchase.

Expressions of interest for the festival are currently open and Castlemaine Fringe Festival invites members of the community to host events, workshops, classes or performance.

The finalists (L to R): Samantha Wittenberg, Rhyll Plant and BevLewis (missing Anje Neal).

MainFM station managerSteph Riddel, Fringechair Jacqueline Brodie-Hanns and MainFM sponsorship and events manager Sue McLennan are looking forwardtothe 30th anniversaryevent.

An evening with Myf

Originally scheduled as part of the Gold Sounds music conference and postponed due to inclement weather, the launch attracted 140 Myf fans to hear her talk with Gold Sounds director Fionna Allan about her book, stories about growing up in Red Cliffs, her work in the TV and music industry and much more.

The launch, presented by Northern Books and Shedshaker Brewing, was the last stop on Myf’s book tour.

Central Victoria holds aspecial place for Myf as her great-great-great grandfather made his name performing around the goldfields.

The audience also heard about Myf’s great Auntie April Byron, who was apopular singer and sweetheart of Aussie legend John Farnham along with other anecdotes about her work on Spicks and Specks,radio’s Double Jand beingpartof I’m aCelebrity, Get Me Out of Here

DHELKAYA HEALTH DRAFT STRATEGIC PLAN 2023-26

Now openfor commentfrom our patients, residents, clients and community

Dhelkaya Health is yourlocal health service. It was created through the integration of Castlemaine Health, Maldon Hospital andCHIRP Community Health in 2022

In the last few months, Dhelkaya Health has been working on astrategic plan to guide our health and wellbeing services, for those living in and around the Mount Alexander Shire, for the next three years.

We have adraft plan ready and now we’d like to hear what you think. Why? Because we want to make sure we’re delivering what’s most important to you, your family and your community.

Commenting on Dhelkaya Health's draft Strategic Plan is easy. You can complete a5-minute survey by scanning the QR code.

Or visit our website at www.dhelkayahealth.org.au

Myf Warhurst and Gold Sounds director Fionna Allan discuss everything from her childhood growing up in Red Cliffs to her career and her newbook. Photo: Fred Farquhar

TV and radio personality Myf Warhurst recently visited Castlemaine’s Phee Broadway Theatre to launch her first book, Time of My Life

Splashinto summer

Splash into summer with the reopening of outdoor pools in Woodend and Lancefield on Saturday December 3.

The outdoor pools will open following Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s temperaturebased guidelines, which can be located on their website.

Opening hours are determined according to Bureau of Meteorology temperature forecasts for Kyneton, at 4.30pm the day before and published on the council’s website.

Council’s outdoor pools and aquatic centres will be closed on Christmas Day and open free of charge on January 26 (Australia Day).

The council is offering an early bird special on family swim season passes to outdoor pools in either Lancefield or Woodend.

Purchase afamilyseason pass for only $108 (the regular price is $227). The early bird offer ends December 17.

For more information about pool opening hours and fees, family passes and season tickets, visit: mrsc.vic.gov.au/outdoor-pools or call 5422 0333.

Celebrating 20 years

TheMacedon Ranges Accommodation Association is marking its 20th anniversary this year with aspecial birthday celebration at its upcoming Christmas general meeting.

Recently, MRAA tracked down its inaugural president David Delle-Vergin who was delighted to learn that the association was still operating and, not only that, it had gone from strength.

He is still aMacedon Ranges local and will be attending the 20th birthday celebration.

The MRAA brings together members to build better relationships; to support operators; and to enhance business development.

It is avoice for the accommodation sector, providing education and networking opportunities to accommodation businesses in the Macedon Ranges.

Current president Mariel Sloane said the accommodation sector was an integral part of the wider visitor economy.

“As such, we are holding acelebration

and invite other businesses to share in marking this milestone,” Ms Sloane said.

“Our next general meeting is on November 30. As part of our commitment to supporting businesses in the visitor economy, we are proud to be one of the first events held in the newly launched Lost Watering Hole at Lancefield.”

The MRAA has achieved much in the past 20 years, and particularly in the past 12 months when, among other projects, acollaboration with Macedon Ranges Shire Council saw the second and greatly expanded Visitor Economy Industry Support Program, coordinated by immediate past president, Andrew Towner.

The MRAA will be celebrating its achievements and welcoming members and other businesses from the wider visitor economy community. Numbers are limited and bookings can be made via www. trybooking.com/CEBOA.

Email enquiries: Secretary@macedonranges.org.au

Resonance presents ‘You’re the Voice’

Resonance String Orchestra is set to present aspecial concert event, You’re the Voice,atthe Castlemaine Town Hall this Saturday.

The latest performance comes amonth after the orchestra’s sold out show at the same venue.

Artistic director Heather Cummins said Saturday’s offering would showcase talented local singers and choirs from across the region.

The soloists and choir members are local residents of different ages who reside in Castlemaine, Malmsbury, Kyneton, Hesket, Woodend, Gisborne and Sunbury.

“The program provides aunique opportunity for the singers to perform with the Resonance String Orchestra, which has expanded to include abandand rhythm section for this concert,” Heather said.

Starting with Brazilian drums, traversing some pop songs, some jazz standards and finishing with Verdi’s Va pensiero chorus from Nabucco, it will be an entertaining

program full of variety and wonderful performances.

“We are fortunate to be joined by special guests Adam Przewlocki (Bendigo) and Joseph Bromley (Woodend),” Heather said.

“There will be performances by Rainbow Voices (Kyneton), the Divine Divas Show Choir (Sunbury) and the Castlemaine Secondary College vocal ensemble.

“Join us for ajoyful celebration of making music together.”

Resonance String Orchestra is currently accepting enrolments for its 2023 program, which willinclude an inauguralJunior String Orchestra for the Castlemaine Branch. Enquiries can be made via the Resonance website.

The concert willbegin at 3pm. Tickets are $25/$15/$60 and can be purchased via Trybooking.com/CCZXX

For more information about the concert check out the Resonance String Orchestra Facebook page.

Resonance String Orchestra is pictured at the Castlemaine Town Hall before their last sold out concert in October Photo: Sam Hodson

Sedgman seeks upper houseseat

Freedom Party candidate Kerryn Sedgman is vying for aseat in the upper house representing the Northern Victoria Region at the state election this month.

She has been acattle farmer, company director of her own governmentaccredited college, and an employer and small business owner for more than 40 years.

Ms Sedgman lives with her husband on five acres in the Wheatsheaf forest near Daylesford. Together they head up an organisation called Common Ground.

Ms Sedgman is running for the state seat following her bid as acandidate for the Ballarat region at the federal election.

“I know first hand our region is facing many challenges including Ausnet towers, draconian biosecurity measures, red tape and regulatory capture and crumbling infrastructure,” she said.

“The Freedom Party policies directly reflect our commitment to protect local businesses and jobs, establish access to affordable homes and ensure an optimum quality

of life for all Victorians.

“My personal focus is strengthening our farming and agricultural sector to improve the quality and accessibility of healthy, affordable and local food.”

Ms Sedgman said she supported councils

justifying their rates and real community consultation, better roads and prompt infrastructure maintenance.

She also supports regulation on the tourist accommodation industry to provide more homes for locals.

Kerryn Sedgman is vying foraseat in the upper house at the state election this month.

Housebrings festive cheer to Kyneton

The Kyneton Twilight Festival and Market is back!

After successfully running the festival in 2018 and 2019, Kyneton Community House had to pause their favourite event due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The market moved online for the past two years as away to support small businesses impacted by markets being unable to be run. While it was great to support local businesses and shoppers with the KCH Marketplace, nothing beats real life community spirit and celebration.

This year the market returns with a fantastic range of artisan products, food, drinks, and activities for young and old to participate in. Santa will be in attendance with an opportunity to have your photo taken with him also available.

There willbea full programofentertainment inside the mechanics instituteand outdoorin thereserve, includinga hulahoop workshop, Body Boppers dance demonstrationand lots of local musicaltalent forparticipants to enjoy throughout theafternoon.

Badge making and Christmas crafting plus face painting will keep the young ones entertained!

Sneak peeks of the wonderful stallholders can be found by checking out the KCH Facebook and Instagram pages (@kynetonch).

There will also be afabulous range of products produced by community participants in support of KCH’s community lunches, edible gardens and childcare.

Saturday December 3, 3-7pm at the Kyneton Mechanics Institute Reserve.

Kyneton Community House volunteersare excited to bring backthe Kyneton Twilight Festival and Market!

Didgeridooand Debussy

Didgeridoo, Debussy and the Birds of Oz is avibrant art music program featuring Claude Debussy’s wonderland dreamscapes Syrinx (1913) and the Sonata for Flute, Viola and Harp (1915), blended with contemporary Australian ensemble and solo compositions themed around our connections to nature and to each other.

The compelling experience is inspired by the joy of nature’s music and connects audiences with our timeless and ongoing connection to Country.

Ahighlight of the performance will be a Yandoitian Birdbath, an audio-visual celebra-

tion of the local birdlife featuring photography by Jodie Heap accompanied by Debussy’s La fille aux cheveux de lin [The girl with the flaxen hair] (1909) arranged for harp solo.

The acclaimed artists in the ensemble are Amos Roach, aproud Ngarrandjerri and Djab Wurrung/Gunditj Mara man, on didgeridoo, Jacinta Dennett on harp, Johanna Selleck on flute, and William Vyvyan Murray on viola.

Jacinta Dennett and Johanna Selleck have collaborated since the 1990s.

In 2021, they joined with Amos Roach and William Vyvyan Murray to perform Australian compositions alongside compositions by

French composer Debussy.

Successfully reaching adiverse Victorian regional, Melbourne, and First Nations audience, they continue to share their vision to celebrate and create their own compositions for this unique blend of instruments.

Bookings: email ycfcpg@gmail.com or phone/text Nikki 0432 232 073.

Entry by donation. Please support musicians who have been hardhit by COVID.

When: Sunday November 27, 4pm

Where: Yandoit Cultural –the old church in the bush –Uniting Church Road,off High Street, Yandoit.

Steiner school celebrates year

Last

The Merchant of Venice on tour.

The school has also just opened its new purpose-built science design and technology centre and is preparing for the school’s kindergarten undergoing amajor renovation and upgrade next year.

The school is experiencing arenewed community interest in enrolments as parents seek out adifferent form of education.

Principal Nerrida Johnson said that with small class sizes, abeautiful natural learning environment and arichand vibrant Steiner curriculum, the school had much to offer its students.

“We provide acreative and empowering education for our students; one that nurtures inner strength, resilience and alove of learning,” she said.

“We are receiving alot of enquiries from parents who are looking for something different, an education that will truly meet their children’s learning needs.”

Parents interested in finding out more about Castlemaine Steiner School are encouraged to contact the school to find out more information or join aschool tour.

Last week alarge crowdattended the first strings music concert since the COVID-19 restrictions began.

Castlemaine Steiner School and Kindergarten community is celebrating student achievement as the school year enters its final weeks.

week alarge crowd attended the first strings music concert since the COVID-19 restrictions began and next week, class eight students will take their production of Shakespeare’s

Artclassesarriving soon

Newstead's RedShed Arts Workshop will begin running aseries of classes exploring life drawing, printing (etching and screen printing), painting and drawing, from February 2023.

Held in the former Railway Goods Shed, the classes will run in 10-week blocks, with at least half adozen offered weekly.

"We're also hoping to start running art therapy classes next year," co-founder Bob Clutterbuck said.

"We've been having discussions with afairly new resident who is atrained art therapist. Everyone can benefit from using creativity as ajumping-off point to know yourself better and to give your life meaning."

The aim of the RedShed is to help people produce art and to provide acollective space for artists to generate ideasand form collaborations.

The RedShed committee formed eight and ahalf years ago and consists six members, only three of whom are artists.

Committee members recently held two open days, one to update the local community on the shed's progress, with more than 60 attendees, and the other specifically for artists, with more than 50 attendees from across the region.

"We like the idea of art education. Making art as anutritious–socially and personally –positive activity," Bob said.

Resurfacing at Harcourt

Regional Roads Victoria has been undertaking vital repair works on the Calder Freeway near Harcourt to improve safety for all road users.

Crews are completing road surfacing works on afour-kilometre section of the Calder Freeway, northbound, between Victoria Road and Gaaschs Road.

The works will deliver asmoother road surface, correcting irregularities and lowering the risk of water pooling on the road surface, which can lead to vehicles sliding in wet weather.

The resurfacing project will allow the speed limit to return to 110km/h following a final safety inspection.

RedShed Arts Workshop co-founder Bob Clutterbuckisexcited to announce aseries of artclasses to begin earlynextyear

Bansemerruns as independent

Guildford resident Matt Bansemer is running as an independent for the seat of Bendigo West in the upcoming state election.

Mr Bansemer’s areas of focus are individual freedom, education, pandemic reconciliation, support for small businesses, and reliable, affordable, clean energy.

A44-year-old engineer, farmer and father of two primary-aged kids, Matt said he was “an unlikely candidate, someone who would rather tend to my farm and spend time with my family”.

“But Ican’t sit by and watch what our political class is doing to Victoria,” he said.

“On one hand we have collectivist authoritarians with no regard for our freedom or prosperity, and on the other, we have ineptitude, self-interest and the abandonment of principles.

‘For humankind, political freedom is not aluxury. Liberty determines how wealthy we are and how long we live.

“Our willingness to let others be free may be anecessary prerequisite to our own personal happiness.

“Small government, low taxation and free markets are the way to achieve this –and punishing corruption is the only way to restore trust in our institutions and prosperity to our society.”

Visit www.matt4bendigo.com for more information.

Help to prepare your action plan

The MountAlexander ShireDisability Advocacy Group has fivevolunteer mentors availableto help anyone in the Mount Alexander Shire whomay want to prepare an Emergency Action Plan.

MASDAG member Cathy Wheel said making aplan was as simple as thinking through what you needed, who could support you and what you could do to prepare in case something unexpected happened.

“Having someone to help you write your action plan, someone who has local information and resources, can get you started,” she said.

“We know that we live with weather that can be harsh andextreme, so to prepare yourself and your loved ones (includingyouranimals!) by making aplan is the very best thing you cando.

“Our mentors are part of ajoint project, Emergency Preparedness Mentor Project, where MASDAG and Castlemaine Community House worked with the support of the Victorian Red Cross and the Mount Alexander Shire to provide resources and support to anyone wanting help to prepare aplan.”

Contact MASDAG for more information by writing to masdag@cch.org.au or ringing 0439 964 179. “We think it’s agood idea to prepare. And we can help,” Cathy said.

Matt Bansemer is running as an independent forthe seat of Bendigo West.

Town Folk Festival to return

Following the good-time success story of Castlemaine’s first ever Town Folk Festival early in 2022, festival organisers have announced it will be back for asecond instalment on February 11, 2023.

At Thursday’s announcement, Town Folk Festival spokesperson Jeremy Furze said the 2023 event would feature ahuge lineup of acts including Big Scary, Phoebe

more.

“Bringing together 16 of the

from around Victoria (and beyond) to Castlemaine, Town Folk celebrates diverse, compelling and exciting music, which all fits vaguely or specifically under the ever-widening

Tickets are on sale now via www.townfolkfestival.com

Go, Folk Bitch Trio, Jade Imagine, The Maes, Maple Glider and

best contemporary artists

The one-day festival takes place in Castlemaine on Dja Dja Wurrung Country across four stages in three venues, The Bridge Hotel, Shedshaker Brewing and Boomtown Wine, all ashort walkingdistance from each other and packed with an afternoon-into-evening of musical greatness, food, drinks and company.

Performersare pictured in action on the pop-up stage next to The BridgeHotelatthe 2022 Town Folk Festival: Photo: Josh Brnjac

Businessidentity makes an impact

Local business identity and Kyneton Business Network’s new president Milton Collins has been recognised for his continued contribution to the business community.

He was awarded Best Community Impact at the Asia Pacific Conference of Action Business Coaches for the work he does with the Victorian Chamber of Commerce, CEO Institute, Macedon Ranges Shire Council and his own portfolio of clients.

Milton is no stranger to business excellence awards. From winning the inaugural Telstra Tourism and Hospitality Award he and his team at Campaspe Country House went on to be finalists on 10 occasions and winners of six awards including Business of the Year.

Since selling the business, Milton has continued his involvement with the awards as amentor, judge and sponsor. He is also currently judging the Victorian Tourism Awards.

Milton’s other experience is diverse. After completing his economics degree at The Australian National University, he started with PriceWaterhouseCoopers PWC as an accountant, he then progressed to

partnership in his own accounting firm at the age of 25 and grew it to eight partners and 200 staff.

He has owned accounting firms, a country house hotel and conference centre, importing and distribution business, acattle and horse stud, an equestrian centre and competed at national level in three day eventing.

He has been on numerous tourism and business boards over many years.

He also had astint as CEO at Federation Square running the Transport Hotel Group and Taxi Kitchen.

This broad experience has led Milton to his current passion as asortafter business coach with the world’s leading coaching firm Action Coach.

It’s arole in which he has helped hundreds of small business people to meet the challenges and maximise the opportunities of their enterprises.

He’s now looking at reinvigorate the Kyneton business community by bringing agroup of people together that can drive change and create greater vibrancy in all areas of business in Kyneton and surrounds.

Milton Collins has been awarded forhis contribution to the business community

Weed workshop

Afreenassella identification and control workshop this Saturday will help landholders manage weeds on their properties.

In Australia, there are more than400 species of grasses with 180 introduced species.

Nassella species can be hard to identify but left undetected they can become difficult to control.

Join Macedon Ranges roadside conservation officer, Josh Gomez, and Victorian Serrated Tussock Working Party communication officer, Ivan Carter, to learn how to identify and control nassella grass species.

The workshop will be held on Saturday, November 26 at Gisborne Community Hall from 10am to 12pm.

To register your interest, visit: mrsc.vic. gov.au

Kids capture hearts

Kid goats Peeky and Perky are calling on kind humans to join them on November 29 for Giving Tuesday, aglobal movement of generosity.

Not-for-profit sanctuary Edgar’s Mission rescued the siblings after they were orphaned, and it wasn’t long before they hopped, skipped and jumped into the hearts of caregivers, visitors and online followers.

“For almost 20 years, Edgar’s Mission has seen the transformative power of kindness in both animals and people,” said Kyle Behrend, operations manager.

“With every story told, like that of Perky and Peeky, hearts and minds across the globe are being transformed while we inch ever closer towards akinder world for animals.”

Celebrating their fourth Giving Tuesday fundraiser, the sanctuary’s goal is to raise $100,000.

This figure represents half of the sanctuary’s annual food and bedding costs for the hundreds of formerly farmed animals who call Edgar’s Mission home.

Giving Tuesday was launched in 2012 as asimpleidea: to create aday that encourages people to do good. Over the past 10 years, this idea has grown into aglobal movement that inspires hundreds of millions of people to give, collaborate and celebrate generosity.

To donate to Edgar’s Mission’s Giving Tuesday fundraiser, visit: givesotheycanlive.com.au

Learnsafety essentials

The CFA is hosting aseries of free Fire Safety Essentials information sessions across the Macedon Ranges and Mount Alexander Shires.

Fire Safety Essentials is the CFA’s entry level bushfire safety program and is designed to challenge participants to personalise their fire risk and to survive fire.

The program includes basic explanations of fire behaviour and an overview of last resort options.

Sessions run for about one hour and are delivered either face to face or online via Zoom.

Fire Safety Essentials information sessions will be held at the following locations:

Maldon: Friday, November 25, 7pm, at the Maldon Gardens (behind the Visitor Information Centre), Francis Street.

Harcourt: Sunday, November 27, 10am, at Harcourt Fire Station, 56 High Street.

Lauriston and Malmsbury: Monday, November 28, 7pm, at Lauriston Town Hall, 440 Lauriston Road.

Chewton: Tuesday, November 29, 7pm, beside Chewton Fire Station, 1Mount Street.

Riddells Creek: Wednesday, November 30, 7.30pm, at Bolithos Road, Riddells Creek –midway between Whitakers Lane and Royal Parade.

Spring Hill: Thursday, December 1, 7pm, Springhill Fire Station, 462 Springhill Road.

Bullengarook: Zoom webinar, Tuesday, December 6, 7.30pm. Register via: cfa-vicgov-au

Mount Macedon: Wednesday, December 7, 6.30pm, at Stanley Park, 15 Salisbury Road

Hesket and Kerrie: Sunday, December 11, 11am, at Hesket Fire Station, Kings Lane.

Lancefield: Monday, December 12, 6pm, Burke and Wills Track at the corner of Ashworths Road.

Kid goats Peeky and Perky are among those that call Edgar’s Mission Farm Sanctuary home.

•Each business that participated will have aCandy Cane on their ad to indicate they are part of the promotion.

•Each business will have aflyer in their window to show that they are part of this promotion, during the promotional time.

Time travel tale

Woodend author Karen Martin’s latest book, The Bringer of Happiness, leans into time travel and stretches the imagination.

Sara is the daughter of Mary Magdalene and has always been different: she can time travel forward into other people’s bodies.

When Sara, whose Aramaic name means ‘bringer of happiness’, wakes up in SarahMarie, ayoung Cathar girl from Montségur, she believes it is her destiny to rescue her from the 13th Century siege.

By saving Sarah-Marie, Sara hopes to safeguard her mother’s gospel.

In thisstory of death, destiny and soul’s purpose, we join Sara as she journeys from

Jerusalem to Egypt to Crete and finally to France heeding her call.

From the award-winning writer and director of The Women’s Jail Project and author of Dancing the Labyrinth,comesanevocative tale that unashamedly merges renowned historical characters and events in aspellbinding story of destiny.

The Bringer of Happiness will officially be launched on Saturday December 10 at the Tap Room, Holgates Hotel, Woodend at 3pm. Award-winning journalist and local author, Karen O’Sullivan, will be facilitating aQ&A at the launch. Everyone is welcome.

Entry is free but bookings are encouraged at: trybooking.com/CEITJ

Author Karen Martin.

Stories that needtobetold

True stories from the LGBTQIA+ community in central Victoria are told in aplay to premiere at the Castlemaine Goods Shed on November 25-26.

Thrive: Queer voices, out loud,isthe creation of Castlemaine-based company Black Apple Theatre.

“We’ve been working on Thrive for two years now,” said director Cheyney Caddy, “It’s been such alabour of love and I couldn’t be more excited to share this work with audiences.”

“I think when you become atheatremaker everyone starts with the idea that they want to change the world for the better, and then as you gain experience, you learn how rare an opportunity that actually is; once in alifetime, if you’re lucky. Thrive is my once in alifetime. Iknowthiswork is going to make adifference.”

Thrive interweaves the real-life journeys of five LGBTQIA+ Victorians, three over 65-year-olds and two 25-year-olds, into a powerful piece of theatre.

It explores the way these generations are connected by love, humour, resilience and afierce determination to create amore equitable future for their community.

All of the artists and performers working on Thrive identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community, which gives them aunique connection into the stories they are telling.

Mount Alexander local Aspen Beilharz is the young performer responsible for telling the story of Julie Peters; the real-life activist and trailblazer who became the first transgender person to run for parliament in Australia.

“Rehearsing Thrive has been awonderfully warm, joyful, energised experience,” Aspen said.

“We’re having fun, but more than that, everyone is passionate about the work we’re doing. Having the chance to explore Julie’s story and bring it to the stage has been an honour.”

Julie equally gained from the experience.

Embrace your inner Picasso in aworkshop for carers at Dromkeen Gallery in Riddells Creek on Friday November 25.

Create an individual artwork guided by facilitators from Pinot and Picasso and connect with other carers over agrazing plate.

This is afun session for carers in the

“Thrive helped me reconnect with my regional Victorian roots and learn the incredible sense of inclusion for gender, relationship and sexuality diverse individuals and communities in country Victoria today,” Julie said.

“When Iwas youngerthere was asense among gender and sexuality diverse individuals that you needed the anonymity of the big city to feel safe being yourself.”

The idea that queerness is ‘something that happens in the city’ has led to indi-

viduals feeling invisible in their regional communities, and the need for authentic representation to address this is athread that runs through Thrive

Young performer Issy Weiskopf described her motivation.

“These are stories that need to be told,” she said.

“We need ahistory of the queer rural experience, as so many of these stories have historically been silenced.”

Discussion panels with the cast and

creative team will be run after each performance.

The Castlemaine premiere of Thrive was made possible by funding from the Department of Premier and Cabinet Pride Events and Festivals Fund and the Australian Government’s Regional Arts Fund.

Thrive will be showing at the Goods Shed, Castlemaine, at 7.30pm on November 25-26.

Tickets are available at: blackappletheatre.com

Macedon Ranges to bring out their inner artist.

This free event will be held at the gallery at 10.30am to 2.30pm.

Registrations are essential by contacting Abbey Brown on 5422 0262 or villageconnect@mrsc.vic.gov.au

show

RepairsonSunday Mayoralvote

The end-of-year Castlemaine and surrounds Repair Cafe is on November 27 at the Community House, 30 Lyttleton Street from 10am to 1pm.

Bring along broken household appliances for volunteer tinkerers to attempt to fix.

The most common repairs are toasters, lamps and vacuum cleaners. There's also sewing repairs and aspare sewing machine to do your own sewing or learn to sew.

There will be asmall workshop in basic bicycle maintenance.

The Mending Circle, including darning tuition, will start at 10.30am. Go along and learn to repair. Enter via the car park and garden to the back door.

The first Repair Cafe for 2023 will be the last Sunday, January 29.

Enquiries to Chris 5470 5508. Leave a number clearly if leaving amessage.

Macedon Ranges Shire Council will vote on its next mayor and deputy mayor today.

Currently in the roles are mayor Jennifer Anderson, who has served for the past two years, and deputy mayor Rob Guthrie.

Councillors will nominate and vote at a meeting to be held today at the Gisborne Administration Centre at 11am.

Jayden Andrea was encouraged to enter his winning kit model by his daughters, Brielle and Adeline,wwith mum,LLinda. P Photo: Bernadette Nunn

Best i inSShow.RRiley Bourke and new puppy Harrytookout the Best in ShowJackWillmott Memorial Ribbon forbest decorated pet.

Photo: Sloane Griffin

Wet weather didn''t dampen spirits on ShowDay Taryan Mathews with eight-month-old alpaca,Titan. Photo: Bernadette Nunn

A famiilyaffair.TThree generations of one family collect their winning entries in the pavilion. From left: Katie and LucyFish, with Jenny Symons. Photo: Bernadette Nunn

Free laser tag in the haybales was popular with all ages Fridaynight.Photo: Sarah Turner

More than 5000 0 peoplleweent through the gates on Show Day

Photo: Bernadette Nunn

Beyond the contemporary façade, a generously proportioned and stylish family home awaits.

Completed in 2020 and constructed to exacting standards, easy living is ensured thanks to the versatile floorplan.

Ideally located in Kyneton’s school precinct, ashort walk to all amenities and sited to allow an enviable outlook across the 19th century origins of the township.

As you enter the home, you are immediately struck by the spacious interiors and the solid beauty of the staircase, which is atestament to the quality of the build.

The entrance design enables the option to create ahome office, while the remainder of the ground floor affords effortless indoor/outdoor living.

The open plan living, dining, and kitchen zone flows harmoniously with the entertainer’s kitchen being the focal point, along with the easy transition to outdoors for alfresco dining.

Indoor/outdoor living is further embraced from the theatre room, an ideal space to celebrate iconic sporting moments with barbecue and bar facilities in easy reach. Four bedrooms reside upstairs, with the main bedroom gloriously large and complemented by asuperb ensuite complete with afreestandingbath.

An upstairs retreat provides afurther living space and showcases the wonderful Kyneton township streetscape.

Set on amanageable allotment, the north-facing landscaped garden is a delight and includes veggie boxes, an arbour, and espalier fruit trees.

Two-car integrated garage, efficiently zoned heating and refrigerated cooling, alarm system, and ducted vacuum complete this outstanding family home.

It’sa buyer’smarket

Now is agreat time to buy property as the market has turned to favour buyers. There is alot of talk from property experts describing the current property market conditions as a‘buyer’s market’ after we saw many years of the increasing property prices and properties flying off the market for eye watering prices during the recent seller’s market. But what does a‘buyer’s market’ actually mean and how can you take advantage of this? Buyers agent and real estate author Lloyd Edge answers some pertinent questions.

What is abuyer’s market?

Abuyer’s market is when property purchasers have an advantage over property sellers (vendors) in price negotiations.

During abuyer’s market you will see real estate become more affordable because market supply is increasing and properties are taking longer to sell in the market which means there are more choices for buyer’s. This results in sellers needing to reconsider their price expectations on their properties and buyers are able to shop around more for the right property.

When does abuyer’s market occur?

Any changes to the property market that happens to increase property supply, decrease demand for properties, or both, will cause abuyer’s market to occur.

With rising interest rates alongside increasing inflation, some buyers will have left the market completely as well as some sellers unable to afford their mortgage and so are forced to list their properties, both which will increase supply on the market.

With an increasing number of sellers having an urgency to sell, this also creates advantages for buyers in the market.

With ahigher supply of properties on the market the flow on effect is that properties start to take longer to sell and are staying on the market for longer and vendors start to become increasingly nervous and urgent about the sale of their properties.

When interest rates are increasing, buyers will be able to borrow less. Alongside rising inflation where buyers can afford less. The result is buyer’s budgets are lower and sellers then need to start to offer discounts on their properties and this is why buyers are seeing they are now able to get ‘more bang for their buck’ than in recent years.

Advantages

The main advantage of abuyer’s market is that sellers reduce their expectations and are more willing to negotiate on price as sellers need to get deals done. This means that the buyer will hold the upper hand during negotiations.

Because properties are taking longer to sell, an advantage for buyers looking to purchase their home means that there are alot more options on the market and there is not such an urgency to make arushed decision.

For property investors, you are able to grab abargain in these market conditions that will prove to be agoodpurchase over the long term particularly if you can negotiate smart with motivated sellers.

Strategies for buying in abuyer’s market:

*Constantly reassess the market conditions. It is important to always understand the comparable sales in the area and make sure that they are reliable and relevant. If you rely on sales prices from last year or even last quarter, you may risk paying too much as the market conditions areverydifferent and constantly changing.

*Understand the seller’s motivations and use this as an advantage during negotiations.

*Beflexible with the terms in the contract to nab agoodpurchase price.

*Ask the agent about whether there is any other interested parties in the property. Knowing about how much competition there is for apropertywillassist you in negotiations. You can also attend open homes to see if there is much interest in the property to aid in your negotiation strategy.

*Ifthe property is going to auction, see if there are many registered bidders and hold back before bidding to see if anyone steps forward. But remember, if apropertyispassed in at auction or doesn’t meet the reserve price then the highest bidder will be called for private negotiation first.

by appointment

John Keating 0419 880 444 or PeterWood 0408 866774

View by

John Keating 0419

179RippersLane Trentham East

4 a 2 b 2

Positionedinthe coveted'Fern Hill' area of Trentham East andenjoying calming views over thesurrounding gently undulating farmland arich lifestyle awaits.The beautifullypresented,generously proportioned, and expertly constructed residence is theideal familyhometoenjoy serene countryliving

c Private Sale Inspect

3 a 1 b 2 c Kyeambashowcaseselegantperiod architecturecombinedwithstylish, contemporaryliving.Drinkinthebeauty ofaspectacular,lovinglycreatedcottage gardenthatembracesthehomeandisfull ofbirdsong PrivateSale Inspect As advertised or by appointment Price $845,000 Land 1,012 sqmapprox Leah Panos 0466

878214

The secret garden

Welcome to ‘Vivians’. Abeautiful double-fronted late Victorian located only 600m from the centre of Castlemaine’s retail and restaurant hub and set within amagnificent ornamental garden -asecret oasis in the heart of town.

Entry is via the central hall with lead light glass detail, with two mirror-image bedrooms on either side. The bedrooms both feature built-in wardrobes, window shutters, pressed metal detailing and original ornate fireplaces. The hall opens into aformalliving room with an original fire-

place and window shutters. Adjoining this space is athird bedroom with built-in wardrobes, window shutters and an original ornate fireplace.

To the back of the house are the open-plan kitchen and dining with french doors leading to the north-facing back garden and entertaining patio. With araked ceiling, the compact kitchen features afreestanding gas cooktop with an electric oven and overlooks the garden. Completing the floor plan is the combined bathroom and laundry. Improve-

Property: AlateVictorian in amagnificent setting close to town centre

Address: 89 Forest Street Castlemaine

Price: $935,000

Agent: Cantwell PropertyCastlemaine

Contact: TomRobertson 5472 1133

ments include gas heating, asplit system and ceiling fans.

The north-facing terraced back garden is the hidden secret. The stunning private garden features established trees, ornamental planting with meandering paths, highlighted rhododendrons, azaleas, box hedging, spring blossoms and bulbs. The fully fenced garden provides asecure remote single garage accessed via alaneway,plusthere are two water tanks and shedding.

It’s time to sit back and enjoy the secret garden.

Castlemaine

New meets Old

24 Ray Street, Castlemaine

Aseamless transition between the new and old makes this an extraordinary property.Fromthe front, it appears to be adouble-fronted Victorian brickhomeset within apretty cottage garden but venturefurther,and you discover acontemporary three bedroom 6-star solar passive extension on 560sqm approx.

$885,000

View

floorplan with improvements including double-glazed windows, a5.2kwsolar system, and three 2000-litre water tanks.

$895,000

View Sat26th November 11:00am-11:30am

Contact Genevieve Cantwell 0418 362 270

With amassive price reduction, this home is ready for for the next owners.

What afantastic opportunity to purchase this executive-style family home nestled in aquiet court location.

It features four good size bedrooms, all with generous built-in robes and an ensuite offering double vanity and walk-in robe.

The light and bright open plan hostess kitchen/ meals/living area includes 900ml electric stainless oven with gas top cooking, stone bench tops, and the

essential dishwasher plus amust-have walk-in pantry. Also on offer are two further separate living rooms or aversatile home office with quality window and floor coverings, and reverse cycle split systems throughout to provide acomfortable living for all times of the year. Step outside to the entertaining alfresco area and fully enclosed backyard plus adouble garage with roller doors and interior access to the home plus separate side access to adoublecarport for the caravan or boat accommodation. Land size 755m2 (approx).

Property: Four bedroomhome with twoliving spaces

Address: 3KellyClose Kyneton

Price: $895,000

Agent: Raine &Horne Kyneton

Contact: Jennifer Pearce 0427 422508 /54222678/ E: jennifer.pearce@kyneton.rh.com.au

Castlemaine

4Carol Street $725,000

SUPER 70s BRICK HOME IN THE SCHOOLS AND GARDENS ZONE

Situated with easy proximity to the popular Castlemaine North primary school, Castlemaine Secondary College and the beautiful Kalimna Reserve this private property has great distant views and is a?ve minute drive to the rail station and town centre. The large block has adrivethrough garage to the pet proof backyardwith arecently levelled site for ashed or pool. The energy program enjoys 2Kw of solar panels, wide eaves, concrete pad, two reversecycle air conditioners and new ducted ?oor heating. There has been new ceiling insulation, fresh internal painting, new hot water service, new reverse cycle air,recent cork and carpet ?ooring throughout, recent kitchen and laundry updates. The three good sized bedrooms have robes and carpet with easy access to the central bathroom and laundry,and handy to an enclosed side verandah which could easily be converted to astudio-study

Castlemaine 3Wheeler Street

$695,000 -$720,000

SPACIOUS STORYBOOK HOME WITH RURAL OUTLOOK

Located only minutes to town is

north facing cape cod style home. Comprising a spacious open plan living area with the kitchen/meals having gas cooking, gas heating, much cupboardspace and direct access to the rear garden. The living area has air conditioning, gas heating and large windows offering much natural light. Downstairs also has spacious two way bathroom with separate toilet, shower and bath, laundry and large carpeted bedroom. From the entrance astaircaseleads to alanding suitable as astudy and two bedrooms both with Dorma windows, one with air conditioning and the other with powder room and small walk in robe. The property features rear fenced yard, small garden shed, double length carport and well established gardens. The Campbells Creek primary school is just 1.3km away and local forest bush-lands even closer at the end of the Street!

‘ROSEBUD’

-ART DECO LOVERS REJOICE AMAZING LOCATION RIGHT IN THE CENTRE OF CASTLEMAINE

Retaining beautiful bones with elements of updates throughout, ‘Rosebud’ delivers an outstanding property in the centreofCastlemaine. Featuring polished floorboards, decorative ceiling roses and architraves, the home has alarge formal lounge/ dining room with glass French doors and acentral sitting room with wood heater.Thereare threebedrooms, two with built in robes, amodernbathroom and spacious kitchen still retainingsomeofthe original cabinetry.Additionally,a large mudroom/side entry doubles as the laundry and storage needs. Original timber shedding at the rear has been preserved and includes quaint features like the concrete trough and brick fireplaces. The home offers arange of options for atreechange to the country or adding to your property portfolio, thereisscope to expand the current footprint and merge the old with new design to create atruly exceptional home.

-Lot 33 :480m2 -$265,000 -Lot 19 :672m2 -$287,000

Lot 20 :656m2- $287,000- Lot21: 650m2- $287,000 -Lot 34 :480m2 -$265,000

Lot 35 :608m2 -$289,000 -Lot 37 :686m2 -$309,000 -Lot 38 :730m2 -$330,000

This outstanding renovatedand extended period home boastshigh-end comforts andaestheticappeal.The contemporary floorplan features 3 generousbedrooms and2beautiful bathrooms,the main with aWIR andensuite. Theopen-plan kitchen,diningand living spacewithlofty ceilings,concretefloors andabundant glazingisthe heartbeatofthe home.The Scandi inspired kitchenisashowstopper with awalk-in pantry, stonesurfacesand spillsout onto thelandscapedrearyard, perfectfor entertainingand play

7ClowesStreet, Malmsbury The Best

ForSale EPR $860,000 -$920,000

Behindanunpretentious façade this immaculate contemporary home cultivatesa coastalundertone throughout withaneffortless, calming monochromaticinterior. Thezoned,openplanlayout createsacalm and sophisticatedliving environmentset against abackdropofrelaxedcoastal toneswith theliving anddiningareaworking seamlesslywiththe Shaker kitchen to foster conversation andmakeentertainingeasy.

10 Shirley Drive, Taradale

Auction

Coolebah -Spacious Family Homestead In Park-Like Surrounds 2 2 4 4.7 ha(12 acres)

The peacefulvistasofthe surrounding landscapeprovide theperfect backdrop forthisextremelyprivate,3 bedroom,2 bathroom homesteadwhich delivers lightand spaceinequal measure. Nestledintogentlyundulating terrainonaverymanageable 4.7hectares(12 acres),the cypress tree-lined driveway createsacalmingsense of arrivalwhich reinforces therural idyllof astunning property teemingwithwildlife. Thereisanunderstated, timeless style about thehome,which combines elements of thepopularhomestead style with vantagepointsoverthe park-likesurroundings from thefront verandah

41 Cameron Street, Kyneton

314 OldDrummond Road, Taradale

Circa1880sCottage in the HeartofMalmsbury 1 3 1 2 57 ha (6.35 acres)

ForSale EPR $720,000 -$780,000

Builtinthe late 1800s, this 3bedroom weatherboard cottageabounds withcharacter.The home retainsmanyhallmarks of theera including Baltic pine floors,openfireplaces,panelled dado wallsand ceilings. Thehome is warm andinviting,with an open plan living area,original fireplace andceiling fans foryearroundcomfort.Large verandahsshelter thecottage at both thefront andrear. Establishedlush gardensprovide privacy, andthe back porchwithpaved area is theperfect spot to enjoya cuppainquiet reflection

ForSale EPR $900,000 -$990,000

With immediate access to theFryersRegional Park andthe Coliban aqueduct, thelocation issecond to nonefor nature lovers andthose seekinga relaxing getawayora permanenthome.The 2.57hectares(6.35 acres)ofundulating land is divided into 2paddockswiththe boundaries either side defined by cypress trees forscreening andwindbreaks. As youenter,the winding drivewayforks eithersideofthe picturesque damtoreveala home that is perfectlyplaced to capturethe viewstothe eastand enjoy themorning sunrise. The home’s aestheticismodern rustic lodge,makingyou feel instantlyateaseand in harmonywiththe surrounds

2 2 2 2 57 ha (6.35 acres)

Lifestyle

This custom-designed home occupies an elevated location that affords spectacular views across lush, gum-studded countryside. Situated on 4.25 hectares (10 acres) and built to complement its location and surrounds, agreat deal of love and time has gone into creating avery special home. With only one owner, the home is now ready for another family to create their own treasured memories.

With three bedrooms, master including awalk-in robe and ensuite, generous family meals area and separate lounge room, there is more than enough room for the whole family. The open plan design provides great space for the family to gather at mealtimes. The kitchen has ahost of modern appliances and awalk-in pantry. Additional

Property: Three bedroomfamilyhome on 4.25 hectares

Address: 90 Hamilton WayLockwood South Price: $835,000-$855,000

Agent: PropertyPlus Real Estate Contact: Nathan Diss&Wes Dorrington / 5447 4088

With all the iconic features including hardwood timber floors, framing and finish plus creative cornice, high ceilings, frosted glass sliding doors, low maintenance aluminium window frames, cut stone fire surround with mantel piece and original kitchen formatting; this carefully maintained home is seeking anew custodian.

There are three double bedrooms with built-in robes, acentral four-piece bathroom with corner inset vanity, toilet, shower cubicle and hip bath plus aseparate large laundry. The kitchen and dining area has two cookers, original benches and cupboards, and is semi open to the generous east facing lounge. There is gas heating and ceiling fans, acovered and ramped rear entry to the home, easy access from the adjoining carport, plenty of concrete pathways and recently completed new guttering.

This is an easy to manage flat block with aconcrete driveway, recent 1.8m fencing, attractive period style wrought iron fence and front verandah balustrade. The garden planting is low care and there’s side lane-way access to apowered and concreted double garage and workshop. The large, flat and cleared block at the rear, also with side lane access, has apicturesque entry into the seasonal Campbells Creek and would be ideal for dual occupancy or subdivision (STCA).

The choice is yours

This picturesque lifestyle property is set on 80 acres with a large, character filledhomestead. With anorth-facing orientation, the home is naturally light-filled and has abeautiful rural outlook through many colonial-style windows.

The double brick dwelling is very spacious, measuring 45m2. The kitchen overlooks an open plan living/dining area and is the heart of the home. The formal dining room is located across the hall from the formal lounge which features abar and wood-burning heater. All five bedrooms are located in the east wing and four of them have walk-in robes. The master also includes an ensuite and there is afamily bathroom. The large rumpus room with second wood-burning heater is located in the west wing. The study which has built-in timber shelving is positioned off the entrance hallway. Features include 10 foot high ceilings and hydronic heating throughout.

There is aseparatelarge indoor heated pool with bathroom and toilet facilities -agreat space for entertaining family and friends year round.

The home is surrounded by outstanding manicured gardens. Acombination of claret ash, pin oaks, poplars, golden ash trees and manchurian pear trees border the entrance driveway and residence. The land is split into three main paddocks and has asemi-permanent creek and three dams, one of which is like asmall lake. Externally there is adouble garage, 45’ x30’ colorbond shed, large hay shed and steel cattle/stock yards.

This rural retreat is immaculately presented and ready for you to move straight in. Situated 16 minutes from Castlemaine and 35 minutes from Bendigo. It has easy access to the Calder Freeway for those who like to frequent Melbourne CBD, approximately 80 minutes.

Further 160 acres land available to the purchaser.

Property: Stunning lifestyle propertywith five bedrooms on 80 acres

Address: 24 Pollards Road, Elphinstone

Price: $2,700,000 -$3,000,000

Agent: KeoghReal Estate Contact: 5472 1248

Crimeauthor to zoom in

Floods may have halted Chris Hammer’s in-person events in October but Goldfields Libraries will host him for an exclusive online author talk in December.

Chris is abest-selling Australian crime novelist and behind the books Scrublands, Silver, Trust, and Treasure and Dirt -all nominated for major literary awards across the globe.

His latest thriller, The Tilt,follows newly minted detective Nell Buchanan, who returns to her hometown, annoyed at being assigned adecades-old murder.

But this is no ordinary cold case, as the discovery of more bodies triggers achain of escalating events in the present day.

As Nell starts to join the pieces together, she begins to question how well she truly knows those closest to her. Could her own family be implicated in the crimes?

Described as “gripping and multi-layered with atmospheric quality”, The Tilt is sure to have readers in its grip.

Chris will join Goldfields Libraries to talk about his latest release on Tuesday December 6, from 6pm to 7pm, online via Zoom. Tickets are free, but bookings are required at: goldfieldslibraries.com

The Tilt was released in October and is now available to borrow from the library catalogue in various formats.

Kinder’snew outdoor space

Riddells

The outdoor learning space has recently had weather blocking screens installed so the kindergarten groups are able to use the space all year long. These blinds were purchased by the Riddells Creek Kindergarten committee with the help of the $4500 grant contributed by the

community bank.

“We are all so grateful to the bank for this generous contribution,” committee president Rachael O’Connor said.

“It is just one of the many reasons that our kindergarten committee chooses to bank with them!

“The kindergarten teachers and students are all so happy with the new blinds and the outdoor learning environment, they are looking forward to many fun sessions out there!”

Kindergarten teacher HilaryZakarias, Gisborne and District Community Bank director Erin McKinnon and students Callum O’Connor and Cole Dridan are pictured with the newoutdoor learning space

Creek Kindergarten’s new outdoor learning space was officially opened by Gisborne and District Community Bank director Erin McKinnon late last month.

•DRIVEWAYS

Macedon Ranges Glass is the region's largest and longest established (since1970) glass and glazing company, specialising in fast glass replacements, retrofit double glazing, showerscreens, splashbacks, mirrors and pet doors.

Our qualified team of glaziers work with home and business owners, builders, architects, designers, real estateagentsand schools throughout Melbourne and the Macedon Ranges, to Daylesford, Castlemaine and beyond.

Come visit our friendly staffatone of our conveniently located showrooms situated at 89E Piper St Kyneton or 14 Ladd Rd NewGisborne, Monday-Fridaytodiscuss all of your glass and glazing needs. Alwayslook forthe Australian Glass and WindowAssociation accreditation label when engaging the services of your local glazier.

FORD

Kathryn (Kay) 15.7.1939 -18.11.2022

Passed peacefully Cherished wife of Terry. Adored mother of Antony, Peter,Marie, Simon, Brian, and Katie

Mother-in-lawof Tarnia (dec), Louise, John, Kirsty, Mariane and James BelovedNanna of 18 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.

Aspecial thank youto the staff of R.M.Begg fortheir dedicated care over the past 7years

KN268405/L

FORD

Requiem Mass forthe Repose of the Soul of KayFord will be held at Our Lady of the RosaryCatholic church, Kyneton on MONDAY (Nov. 28th 2022) at 11 am. Burial will follow at Kyneton Cemetery, Redesdale Rd, Kyneton.

Those unable to attend are warmly invited to join the service via livestream which can be accessed on Kay’seTribute at tjscottandson.com.au

ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORTROLE

We are aboutique legal practice in Kyneton seeking an intelligent person with initiativeand good communication skills to supportour team in providing high quality legal services

Experience in law, banking, probate or real estate maybeanadvantage,but we are willing to train the right candidate.Hybrid work arrangements will be considered forthe right candidate

Coverletter and CV to: kyneton@acdlawyers.com.au

KN268165/L

Armstrong Collins &Delacy

TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE

Castlemaine Rotary TruckShow

Colin -desexedmale, 5yoDSH. He enjoys attention and loves people,hecan get a littlegrumpyifhe's crowded, he needs his space and no forced attention on him. Suited to afamily with no small children or other cats.Microchip # 956000010096624 Source No.BR100938

24 Langlsow Street Castlemaine. P: 5472 5277 Mon -Sat 10-2 SunClosed https://maaw.org.au

2016 Polaris570 ute quad bikeand 2trailers and sprayer -$6,500.00, ride on mower and trailer -$2,500.00, fridge -$50.00, washing machine -$50.00, oil heater -$50.00, Tekna dressage saddle -$200.00, Sonic TV -$100.00, Weights -$50.00, Hay(220 bales TBC) -$1,100.00, variousladders -$200.00, rug-$50.00, queen sizebed ensuite room -$100.00, 2017 Camper Trailer -$30,000.00, wickerdraws (each) -$50.00, wooden cupboards (each) -$50.00, dishwasher $200.00, water cartand trailer -$750.00, white drawers -$100.00, variousgarden tools $100.00, crowbar -$50.00, harrows -$150.00, outside table and 6chairs -$150.00, white table and bench -$150.00. And much more

Rain again impactsCDCA

Rain once again hampered play in the Castlemaine District Cricket Association last weekend with all senior matches once again washed out.

CGrade/Under 16 sides managed to wrap up the second day of play in their two day fixtures before the downpour hit. Results were as follows:

Castlemaine United Blue 93 (M Matheson 2/3, L Bruce 2/3, JAnderson 2/4) lost to North Castlemaine/ Guildford 5-214. (M Matheson 50, RWebster 34, Z Hinck 33).

Harcourt 1-67 (M Chamberlain 19, JArcher20) lost to Newstead 5-62 (E Righetti 23, KSimmons 3-11, M Chamberlain 2-13).

Muckleford 7-107 (J Smith 29 not out, TTurner 2-34) defeated Castlemaine United Gold 55 (J Nutall 30, CButcher 2-0, ALayne 2-9).

GDCA cricketinthe wars

mammoth 8/326.

Play in the majority of scheduled matches across the Gisborne District Cricket Association were washed out without a ball being bowled on Saturday.

Rain was more prevalent In the northern part of the competition, but to the south some matches proceeded.

Where two-daymatches where scheduled consultation between captains and umpires led to no play, with matches converted to one-day fixtures this weekend.

There were two centuries, bothcomingindivision two.

Ivan Bobetic plundered 113(13 fours, threesixes) and Malcolm Davies hita swift unbeaten 71 in Macedon’s

Nathan Bridglandscored 101 not out in Sunbury United’s 5/178 (David King 4-50) against Riddell.

In the same grade Romsey dismissed Rupertswood for a meagre 79 (J. Day 5-15, D. Wright 3-23) and Romsey reached 3/73 by stumps.

Macedon was bowled out for 163 (T. Coppin 43 in C. Axton 29) and Aintree will resume at 0/22. In division two.

Hanging Rock made 119 (O. Plunkett 61) in reply to Bacchus Marsh’s 9/277.

In junior ranks, Lancefield’s BLAST sessions on Friday nights are attracting arecord 40 youngsters aged between five and eight years.

Town &District

GOLF results

Castlemaine

Brad

Kyneton

Lorraine Ryan is Kyneton Golf Club’s women’s champion for 2022 by amargin of five strokes over 54 holes.

It is Ryan’s second championship, and it was her consistency over her three rounds in very tough conditions that paid off.

Ryan tallied 102, 101, 100 –303 with Tracey Bramich the runner-up on 308.

Bramich has been in good form in recent months and she landed the B-grade title, ahead of Joan Gibbs.

Long-time member Banksie Buckley emerged as the C-grade champion, ahead of Anne Bennet.

The Ruth Sievers Memorial Trophy for best nett round over the 54 holes also went to Bramich, and Lorraine Ryan added the Medal of Medallists title to her championship success.

The annual Stan Porter Memorial Trophy was contested on Saturday.

Stan’s son, Jim, was there to present the tray to winner David Austin (23 handicap) who finished with 38 stableford points, edging out David Moore (9) on a countback.

Formerly the head course superintendent at Royal Melbourne, Jim Porter commented on how good the greens were at Kyneton, with anew greens mower being put to good use.

NTPs went to Craig Perkins (also super pin), Ross Foreman, Glenn Cooke and Jason McClure.

The second and final round of Kyneton’s

midweek championship on Wednesday resulted in aone-shot win for fast-finishing John Chandler.

Seemingly out of contention after apoor first round, Chandler shot anett 68 to finish on 148, one clear of David Austin, with first round winner Col O’Sullivan third on 150.

Chandler won the daily event with 9224-68 from Phillip Barratt 98-27-72.

Over 30 millimetres of rain on Saturday night led to the cancellation of the Drummond Tri-Series between Kyneton, Woodend and Trentham on Sunday.

Lancefield

Acollective decision by the Lancefield ladies has resulted in the club championships being abandoned this season –the adverse weather is the only winner!

The stop-start of golf has affected many competitions across the region in recent months, with Lancefield engaging in constant rethinks on what type of event to play.

The winning team in the four-person Ambrose over 11 holes last Wednesday comprised Jenni Vennell, Anne Robinson, Sheena Flentjar and Florence Meyer with a34.5 tally, with Kaylene Cruise, Wendy Nicholas, Hazel Laycock and Di Rohde runners-up on 39.

Saturday was another ‘tough at the

office’ day for the men, with very few good scores.

The winner was Barry Flentjar (20) with 34 points, from James Whitford (16) on 31. Third place went to asurprised Denis Linehan (19) with 25.

Legends –EdGodek (17) 28 points, from Stephen Draper (22) one behind.

Romsey

Woodend’s Connor Whelan fired 49, 49 –98towin the annual Graeme Clement Open at Romsey on Sunday.

Over 30millimetres of rain fell in the afternoon after the first three holes were played earlier in sunshine.

Afew late scratchings saw the field reduced, and Whelan and Mark Ladewig (Hidden Valley) shot 49 for the first 12 holes, with Mark Willis (Mount Macedon) carding 50.

Gusting wind, hailstones and rain made the end of the 24holes even tougher.

Romsey Golf Club is grateful to local electrical company NSEC Electrical for sponsoring the day.

Results were:

Graeme Clement Shield –Connor Whelan 98.

A-grade handicap –Matt Willis 103-6.696.33.

B-grade stroke –Mick Doyle (Mount Macedon) 109.Handicap –Graeme Hogg 111-16-95.

C-grade stroke –Davey Kenney (Romsey) 111. Handicap –Steve Wilkins (Romsey) 121-25.33-95.66.

Morning handicap –LukeLyons (Romsey) 57-10-47. Afternoon –Mal Mottram (Romnsey) 53-4.66- 48-33.

NTPs –Pat Doyle (2), Willis, Ladewig, Mick Nicholls Jnr.

Wet and windy conditions afflicted 75 per cent of the field in the Romsey pre-tournament 4BBB stableford on Saturday.

Racing at last!

Bill West

Aprolonged delay of more than eight months since races were held at Kyneton was broken last Tuesday, with two locally trained gallopers successful on the eightevent program.

Kyneton and Hanging Rock Racing Club, like many others, has fallen victim to unprecedented rainfall this year, the latest blow being the recent forced transfer of the 2022 Kyneton Cup to Bendigo.

On atrackrated heavy 8, the Mick Sell trained Magnum Bullet reinforced his toughness by carrying topweight of 645kg to lead throughout in the 1100m Macedon Ranges Glass BM58 Handicap.

Ridden by Neil Farley, the five-year-old jumped from barrier 1and refused to relinquish the lead on his home track.

The eventual margin was two lengths, and Magnum Bullet took his earnings to $110,085 with five career wins from 24 starts.

At his two previous runs Magnum Bullet had been placed at Mornington, and was well in the market with some local punters very pleased with the outcome.

The other local winner was Here With Me ($7) in the Evolve Interiors Maiden over 1850m.

Trained by Charles Cassar and ridden by Dean Holland, Here With Me also led throughout, holding on by 0.2 lengths to win at his 20th start.

Kyneton and Hanging Rock Racing Club’s next race meeting is on Monday, November 28, followed by the Christmas Party Race Day on Thursday, December 15.

On Sunday, Kilmore Cup Day was abandoned due to heavy rain overnight making the track unsuitable for racing.

Visitors from Hidden Valley, Kilmore, Broadford and Maryborough were welcomed.

Trentham

Adverse weather dictated the outcome of Trentham’s stableford on Saturday, with 57 teeing off and 27 finishing.

Best score of the day came from Agrade winner Cameron McDonald (12 with 37 points; Chris Campbell (14) took out Bgrade with 36 and JohnWilliams (23) won C-grade with 29.

Alex Everaud was the women’s winner with 37 points, from Lorna Beaumont 30.

Woodend

The rain-interrupted stableford event at Woodend on Saturday failed to deter some of the club’s most intrepid players.

The day’s winnerwas Don Mazey (12) with 39 points.

Runner-up was Nicholas Cox from a+5 handicap, with 36 points.

Areminder about the special par 3event this Saturday –get your entries in now.

Bill West

Aresolute Peter Farrell (21) defied the elements at Castlemaine on Saturday, winning the stableford event with 35 points. There were 30 starters, and only 17 finished.

Sturgess (16) and Geoff Margery (18) finished in the minor placings.

The locals scooped the pool: In-form Pat Chisholm and Luke Lyons won with 41 points on acountback from Mitch Atlas and Davey Kenney, with Shannon Wright and Mick Squire third on 40.

Kyneton Golf Club’s2022 Champions: Banksie Buckley(C-grade), Lorraine Ryan (club champion) and TraceyBramich(B-grade).

From left: Tony Ellis (NSEC Electrical), RomseyGolfClub’sGraeme Clement Memorial champion Connor Whelan, and Graeme Clement.

Major move

Setting up aseniorwomen’s football competition for 2023 with the inclusion of Kyneton, Melton and Castlemaine-based Mount Alexander Falcons is alandmark event in Riddell League history, according to chief executive officer Jordan Doyle.

“We are thrilled to offer all females in our community the same opportunity as the males for their football pathway,” Doyle said.

All current Riddell League clubs were asked to vote on the proposal and the decision was unanimous,” Doyle said late last week.

Tigerland coaches

Former AFL star Paul Chapman was recently re-appointed as coach of Kyneton senior footballers for the third successive season.

Chapman will be looking to lift the Tigers into the Bendigo League finals in 2023 after the club narrowly missed out last season.

Senior player Ryan Pretty will be in charge of the Reserves, and Ethan Foreman returns to the Tigers as aplayer, and as coach of the Under 18s, after being amemberofGisborne’s 2022 premiership side.

Foreman, atalented utility player, has had along association with the Tigers.

Tomorrow (Wednesday) from 5.45pm there’s apre-season meet and greet for the Tigers at the Kyneton Showgrounds. Prospective new players very welcome.

ANNUAL MEETING

Kyneton Football Netball Club’s annual general meeting takes place this Saturday, November 26.

The venue is the Kyneton Hotel, and there’s a$500lucky door prize available for one fortunate attendee.

Bowls draw

Round 7matches in Highlands pennant bowls this Saturday are:

Division 1– Romsey vTrentham, Gisborne vKyneton, Kyneton Golf vBroadford, Lancefield vKilmre.

Division 2– Macdon vKyneton, Romsey vKilmore, Kyneton Golf vBroadford, Woodend viggers Rest.

Division 3– Gisborne vMacedon, Diggers Rest vRomsey, Lancefield vTrentham,Kilmore vWoodend.

Flood relief for bowlsclub

Woodend Bowling Club was hit hard by severe flooding last month and has warmly welcomed some generous financial assistance to help replace damaged equipment.

The club’s synthetic green was damaged beyond repair and is the subjectofacurrent insurance claim. The adjacent grass green also suffered significant damage.

The old established bowling club is next to the Five Mile Creek, and warning signs were apparent in mid-October when water came down the hill on Nicholson and and entered the large storage shed. This was just aprelude to the ‘Big One’.

“We sandbagged thearea in preparation for the expected bigger flood but this was useless against the force of thewaters when the Five Mile Creek broke its banks,” club president Mike Dornau said

“Both of our greens were turned into swimming pools and the rising water actually came within an inch of getting into the clubhouse.”

Water again entered the main shed causing damage to equipment including the two lawn mowers, line marker and boom spray.

“Fortunately, we had lifted anumber of other pieces of equipment when wedid the sand-bagging andthey were not damaged,” the president said.

Total damage to equipment was in excess of$10,000.

The club immediately applied for flood relief from Bowls Australia through the Bowls Disaster Relief Fund.

Peter Williams, manager of North East Victoria Regional Bowls, said the program was established to help grassroots sport and recreation clubs and organisations to replace essential sporting and first aid equipment lost or damaged through flood, fire, significant storms, theft or criminal damage.

“We are delighted that Woodend Bowling Club isreceiving just over$2200 fromthisfund to help with their recovery from the floods,” Mr Williams said.

MrDornau sincerelythankedBowls Australia for their generous contribution.

“It will immediately be put touse in repairing and replacing some of the valuable equipment we lost in the flood,” he said.

The clubhas also received afurther $5000from the stategovernment’s Emergency Sporting Equipment Grant Program, and this is being used toreplace additional damaged equipment.

Woodend Bowling Club is appreciative of other Highlands area clubs providing alternative venuessopennant matches can be played.

Big margins in midweek

Highlands midweek bowls matches last week were generally one-sided.

Flag-favourite Gisborne walloped Broadford by 49shots in the top division, and Trentham went down 88-32 against second divisionpacesetter Diggers Rest

Romsey doubled third-placed Kyneton’s tally in the top division.

Theday’s closest match occurred in division three, with Woodend home by two shots against Romsey.

Division one ladder: Gisborne 73 points, Kilmore 72, Kyneton 53, Romsey 42, Macedon 30, Kyneton Golf 19, Broadford 14,Woodend14.

Scores were: Gisborne 78 dBroadford24–T.Rogers (s) 27 d P. Hoskins 6, P. O’Farrell 32 dJ.Bruce 8, E. Higgins 14 dD.Kelly 10; Romsey 76 dKyneton Golf 38 –C.Austin 28 dP.Williams 6, S. Mayger 24 dC.Scott 16, J. Beaumont 24 dC.Schmidt 16; Macedon 78 dWoodend 37 –GayleHobbs 19 dT.Sturt 10, S. Doran 38 dR.Smithies 4, I. Guymer 13 lost to M. Dornau 15; Kilmore 67 dKyneton 55 –K.Mayberry 27 dA.Macdonald 18, C.Hodgson 20 lost to N. Jamieson 21, S. Hawkless 18 dA.Mathison 16.

Second division: The impact of aCOVID outbreak meant Lancefield could not field ateamand thereby forfeited to Macedon.

Diggers Rest 88 dTrentham 32 –D.Odgers 26 dM.Bruton 14,

S. Cummins 36 dC.Pevitt10, J. Browne26d R. Justice 13; Kilmore 70 dKyneton 43 –B.Barnes18d R. Ackroyd 14, W.Cattanach 23 dJ.Wells 16, K. Campbell 25 dN.Rothe 16.

Ladder: Diggers Rest 74, Trentham 44, Gisborne 38, Kilmore 34, Macedon 20, Kyneton 18, Lancefield 12.

Third division:Romsey 36 lost to Woodend 38 –J.Boyce 14 lost to A. Lennie 20, C. Dean 22 dA.Jewell 19.

Ladder: Kilmore 50,Gisborne 40, Woodend 30, Romsey 20

Like twoswimming pools –this picture tells the storyofthe formidable flooding that narrowly missed theclubhouse

Muchappreciated: Woodend Bowling Club president Mike Dornau (at left) accepts welcome funding from Bowls Australia’sPeter Williams.

Kyneton juniorstomovesouth

Bill West

In asignificant move for the future, Kyneton Football Netball Club’s junior football teams will transfer from the Bendigo League to the Riddell League next season.

“Our club is looking forward to joining Riddell next season and recognise that we need to implement additional actions to support our junior development and retention to improve our junior numbers,” Kyneton president Hayden Evans said.

Kyneton will remain aligned with the Bendigo Football Netball League for its senior football and netball teams, and the Riddell League for its junior boys and girls’ football teams. Kyneton’s senior women’s football team will also switch to the RDFNL (See separate story).

Riddell League staff and the board have been doing alot of work in the background with Kyneton, and the league’s CEO Jordan Doyle said the move is one the league has had in its sights for anumber of years, and he is pleased to see it come to fruition.

“The RDFNL has long seen Kyneton FNC as agood fit for our competitions and the board, staff and member clubs are looking forward to them joining our league and want to wish them all the very best for not only the 2023 season, but beyond,” Doyle said.

“The RDFNL is committed to continuing to grow our league, both internally and externally, and Kyneton joining will only strengthen all of our competitions.”

Riddell League clubs voted unanimously in favour of Kyneton joining the RDFNL junior competition.

SUB-COMMITTEE PROBE

The Kyneton club has been working on developing the governance and sustainability of the club in recent seasons, and decided to review the current junior program to determine future development opportunities.

The Tigers’ sub-committee undertook adetailed review and parent engagement process to identify chances to improve participant enjoyment, skill development, family connection and options to increase junior numbers.

An assessment of KFNC junior registrations over the past 10 years identified adecline in the number of teams, dropping from 12 in 2014 to seven last season.

Acore objective of the review process included an assessment of the most appropriate league for Kyneton’s junior teams next season.

The sub-committee met with both the Bendigo and Riddell leagues to determine opportunities and benefits for 2023.

This engagement identified that Kyneton being with Riddell would support its junior players participating against teams in the Macedon Ranges, reduce travel distances, and play home games with all junior teams on the same day.

Kyneton’s junior football director, Daniel Murray, said having all junior teams playing together during home games was asubstantial benefit to junior parents and players.

“It enables families to watch multiple children playing matches at the Showgrounds Reserve, which supports a strong family culture at the club,” Murray said.

The club invited junior families to an information session with the Riddell League’s junior executive in September to allow parents to gain abetter understanding of their competition.

Kyneton’s goal is to continue to focus on building the club from the ground up.

This means providing acommunityclub that can provide all levels of play from juniors to the seniors while fostering an environment of teamwork, trust, dedication and respect.

The consultation process determined the Tiger juniors are best positioned to increase player participation and club connectivity by moving to the Riddell League.

An off-shoot of the Kyneton and Riddell League decision may be arevival of the old geographic view thatKyneton may well be better suited in the Riddell League, rather than in Bendigo –thiswas advocated alongtime ago by then Kyneton president Ron Brunsdon, but triggered strong opposition and nothing eventuated.

#Any young players interested in playing for the Kyneton Tigers in 2023 is invited to email the club on juniorfootball@kynetonfnc.com

It’sall fine at Bulldogland

Bill West

Gisborne Football Netball Club’s outstanding successes on the football field and netball courts in 2022 have been well documented.

There was aconvivial atmosphere at the club’s annual meeting held last week.

President John Wood (pictured) was re-elected unopposed for another term, and in his annual report he summarised the highlights of the past year –labelling the achievements as just reward for all the hard work and effort of those involved at the club, particularly over the last seven years.

“Despite two years of interruptions due to COVID, we have been able to weather the storm through prudent and responsible spending and finished the year with a healthy balance sheet.

Once again, abig thank-you must go out to Tony Brancatisano for his efforts during this period where, in his role as sponsorship manager, he was able to keep us in astrong financial position,” the president said.

Brancatisano was elected as vice-president, Debbie Brancatisano is treasurer, and Many Dimasi continues as secretary.

Referring to the build-up at Bulldogland over the past seven years, the president paid tribute to the players, coaches, medical staff, team support staff, and the work and support of the Golden Bulldogs (major fundraising group).

The efforts of an extremely hard-working committee, the wonderful work of magnificent sponsors, dedication of sensational volunteers and fantastic members and supporters all came in for high praise.

‘A MAGNIFICENY YEAR’ Those present were in full agreement

with John Wood stating that it was also a magnificent year on-field, with three grades of football and five of netball finishing in the finals.

In testament to the Bulldogs’ success across all grades in the Bendigo Football Netball League, the club was awarded the prestigious David McCann Champion Club award at the Michelsen Medal presentation.

The night was made even more special as young local Gisborne players featured prominently in individual league best and fairest awards.

Grand Final Day at the Queen Elizabeth Oval saw six Gisborne teams competing for cups, bringing home four of the eight premierships on offer.

The senior footballers won their first premiership since 2006 in atough encounter against Strathfieldsaye, and the Under 18s came from behind to defeat Sandhurst.

The Under 17s finished as premiers and undefeated champions, and the Bulldogs won their first-ever AReserve netball cup.

Gisborne’s senior women footballers had avery successful year, making the Essendon District Football League finals in their

first full season in the league.

The U18.5 women just missed the finals, but sent astrong message that Gisborne will be aforce in seasons to come.

“With many of the Under 16 girls having ataste of Under 18.5 football, the future is very bright for Gisborne women’s football,” Wood predicted.

The club is very proud of Brianna Woodburn, Ruby Watts, Shannon McFerran and Charlotte Noonan for being named in the EDFL’s division one Team of the Year.

In the U18.5s, Bridie Collings excelled to be runner-up in the league’s best and fairest in her first season in the league as abottomage player.

DUAL MEDAL WINNER

The president highlighted Maddy Stewart’s outstanding feat in winning her second Betty Thompson Medalinthe league’s A-grade netball, only one of avery few to achieve this.

Tori Skrijel won the 17 and Under Carol Sing Medal, with teammate Emily McDonald runner-up.

Wood said senior star Brad Bernaki deserved aspecial mention as he finished equal runner-up in the Michelsen Medal on 15 votes, despite missing seven gamesdue to VFL duties with Essendon.

Bulldogs Jacob Murphy and Boyd Nalder were joint winner of the league Reserves medal despite their Reserves team playing only 15 of the 18 home and away games due to the COVID functional framework protocols.

Harry Luxmoore’s effort in winning the U18s goalkicking with 64 goals for the season was also highlighted.

The Bulldogs are looking forward to another top season across all grades in 2023.

Coach again

After coaching Riddell to apremiership in 2022,Justin Belleville(pictured) is back at thehelmofthe Bombers again.

Senior footballpre-season begins tomorrow(Wednesday)evening.

Activities willconsist of arelatively shortrun and ageneral catch-up, followed by drinksand ameal.

Trophyname

In what Gisborne Football Netball Club president John Wood described as “an overdue initiative”, the club’s A-grade netball best and fairest aeard will have anew name for next season.

It will take the form of aspecially struck medal to be named the Rymer–Black Medal.

The president told last week’s annual meeting that this is in recognition “of the many years of work by two fantastic ladies in Sharon Black and Noelene Rymer”.