Midland Express Tuesday 24 February 2026

World record withinreach

EAGLES TAKE FLIGHT

TheKynetonwomen areofficially readytosoar.

Aftermonthsofuncertainty,persistenceand passionateadvocacy,the KynetonWomen’s Football Club has been given the green lighttocompete as theWedge-Tailed Eagles in the CentralVictoria Football League forthe 2026 season.

Forplayers and supporterswho refused to giveup, the momentmarks far more than just entry into acompetition –it’sthe culmination of ahard-foughtjourneytobe recognised on their ownterms.

Club spokesperson Natalie Korinfsky said the decision wasdeeply meaningfulfor everyone involved.

“This is an incredibly significantday forour players and our community,”she said.

“Our group has remained united and resilientthroughout this process, and today’soutcome ensures theywill be able to take thefield together,asthe club they have built.

“Therewerecompromises along theway,but we have stood firm on whatmatters most –the rightfor our playerstocompete as their ownentity, in an environmentthat is safe,supportiveand respectful.”

Theroad to this point has been anything butsmooth.

Afterbreaking away from the KynetonFootball Netball Club in 2024 amid claims of inequitable treatmentand disrespectful conditions, the women initially facedbarriers to entering acompetition under their original name.

TheRiddell District Football NetballLeague had opposed the use of 'Kyneton' in the club’s title, buthas since confirmed it does notobjecttothe team joining theCVFL under its newidentity.

That breakthrough followeda keymeeting with AFL officials, whereapathway wasestablished to ensurethe group could remaintogether and compete as astandalone club.

In theweeksthatfollowed, the clubrefined its application, addressing stakeholder concerns and strengthening its case. AFLVictoria also stepped in to waivethe standard deadline fornew club admissions –a move thatensured the application would be assessed on its merits.

Then camethe momenttheyhad been waiting for.

Last week,formal approval arrived, sparking relief, excitementand pride across the playing group and thewider community thathas backed them every step of the way.

Continued page50.

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Newtourism brand launched

Tourism industry representatives from across the MountAlexander,Macedon Ranges, Hepburnand CentralGoldfields shires descended on Castlemaine's Boomtown Winery and Bistrolast Thursdayevening forthe official launch of newvisitor brand –'Victoria’s Heartland'

Theunveiling marks an exciting new chapterfor the region following the inception of Destination CentralVictoria last year

Formerly known as DaylesfordMacedon Tourism, thenew entity nowrepresents four shires, doubling in sizeand scope and nowboasting acombined visitor economy worth close to $1 billion dollars.

Backed and funded by both state and local government, DCV is dedicatedto leading tourism development, promotion and collaboration across the four local governmentareas.

DCV unveiled the fresh newconsumer brand 'Victoria’s Heartland: PlaceofPlenty', which aims to capturethe spirit and heart of centralVictoria and is designed to unite communities, attractvisitorsand drive growth across the region.

Interim CEOfor Destination CentralVictoria, Paul Matthews,saidthe newbrand wasdeveloped following close consultation with the four council areas and key industry partners.

“Victoria’s Heartland wasborn through extensiveengagementand collaboration with stakeholders. While preserving the strong brand equity already associatedwith Daylesfordand the Macedon Ranges, our newidentity aims to spotlightthe region’s keybrand pillarsand herodestinations, reinforcing its appeal to visitors,”hesaid.

“This brand capturesthe very essenceof our region –warm and authentic, welcoming to all, rich in creativityand natural

beauty,and forward–thinking while honouring our past,”hesaid.

Alongside the newbrand identity,DCV also launched its brand–newVictoria’s Heartland visitor websiteand adedicated Victoria’s Heartland Visitor App –bothof which have been createdtoenhancethe experienceofvisitorsand locals exploring the region.

Theapp features geocaching so visitors can tap into localexperiences in their surrounding area.

Thenew brand will also be bolstered by social media influencersvisiting all corners

More beds at MYJC

Thestate governmenthas announced another 45 newbedsatthe newly reopened Malmsbury Youth JusticeCentre.

It follows last year’sannouncementof30 beds –meaning 75 newbedsare nowbeing delivered at the MalmsburyYouth Justice Precinct.

Youthremand is rising –upabout40per cent sincethe government’sbail reforms came into effect

With Labor’sAdult Time forViolentCrime coming into effect at the end of February –youth custody numbersare predicted to continue to rise. Minister forCorrections Enver Erdogan said the tough newbail laws were working and remand numbers were up.

"We’re putting the infrastructureinplace to keep thecommunity safe,” he said.

“This investmentensures the Youth Justice systemcan keep the community safe today, while giving young people the support they need to build better futures.”

Theadditional capacityatMalmsbury aims

Driver charged

Major CollisionInvestigation Unit detectives have chargedaman following afatal collision in Newhamearlier this month.

The28-year-old man hasbeencharged with culpable driving causing death, dangerous driving causing death and fail to giveway

Thecharges follow acollision between acar andtruck at the intersection of Egans Lane and ThreeChain Road on TuesdayFebruary 3about 7.20pm

Thepassenger of the truck, a67-year-old Kynetonman, died at the scene.

Thedriverofthe truck, a43-year-old Malmsbury man, wasairlifted to hospital with serious injuries.

Themale driver of the Holden Commodore involved, also from Malmsbury, was arrested at the scene and subsequently interviewed.

He hasbeen bailed to appear before BendigoMagistrates Court fora committal mention on June 24.

to giveYouth Justiceflexibility to managedifferent cohorts and deliver newprograms that meetthe individualneeds of young people. Under recent changes to theYouthJustice Act, young people on remand cannow access rehabilitation programs –not just those who aresentenced.

More than 100 newyouth justiceworkers will be recruited to staff the expanded facility, supporting local jobs and building on strong workforce growth across the system.

Upgrades to infrastructureand security at Malmsbury areunder way. Newbeds will come online in stages this year

Thegovernmentisinvesting afurther $203 million overfiveyears forfurther community safety reforms –including the additional 45 beds, morefrontline youthjustice staff and services, and court escorts.

This investmentbuilds on the Victorian Budget 25/26funding for88additional youth justicebedsand nearly 1000 extrabedsin theadult prison system.

of the heartlands and sharing their experiencesatlocal accommodation, eateries, stores and attractions.

“The newbrand, websiteand app are settostrengthen centralVictoria’s position as amust–visitdestination, aplacewith authenticity,creativity,diversity and heart,” Mr Matthews said.

Whether it’snature, food,wine, creativity or connection, visitorscan expect to leave with morethan theycamefor

Visit the Victoria’s Heartland website at victoriasheartland.com.au or socials to discovermore.

Whileyou arewaiting,our friendly nurses maywhisk youawaybriefly to check your height,weight,blood pressure andmake sure your remindersand vaccinations are alluptodate.

Theteam from Destination CentralVictoria were thrilled to be at Boomtown Wines to launch their newvisitor brand –Victoria’s Heartland. Photo:PennyRyanPhotography

HomelessinHarcourt Homeless in Harcourrt t

Jade Jungwirth

Over the pastmonth,the Express has reported extensively on the devastating loss of homes and businesses caused by the fireinthe Harcourt district on January 9.

Emotional, financial and practical support has been readily available to thosewho lost their homes, but for people who do notfit into 'traditional' living arrangements, those living rough in tents, carsand buses, gaining support can be difficult

AJ*, who has been living in abus on public land in Harcourt sincelast November,was one of manyhomeless people in the region when thefires hit.

He struggled to getapproved fora disaster relief paymentand is hoping the process will be made easier for othersinsimilar situations in the future.

This is the thirdbushfireAJhas been caughtinduring his life. Therewas afireinGippsland in the early 2000s, and on BlackSaturday, he wasinUpper Ferntree Gully when the firecamethrough.

"The differenceherewas the speed at which the fire came through,"hesaid.

"Itwentfromthere'sa fire, to there'sa firecoming, to there'safirehere. It wasjust crazy! I'dchecked the website 45 minutes before,but therewerenowarnings, so Ihad relaxed alittle bit.

"I only gotfiveminutes out of town, maybe noteven, when Ibroke down on the Calder Freeway, panicking and on the phone to thepolice, convinced the buswas gone, and it wasjust another guy in abus,pulled up in frontof me and offeredtotow me."

AJ told the Express he felt fortunatebecause his home wasonwheels, and while he couldn't travel farhecould at least move outofharm's way.

"Bendigoissuch abig hub, so thereare quitea few people displaced from thatarea, and theyfilter out. There's abig camp along thecreek in Lockwood with at least 20 homeless people there, and another one by the creek between Harcourt and Bendigo,"hesaid.

"For people who have tents, it would takethem two hourstopack their stuff up, and theycan't, so they'dhave to leaveit. That's everything thattheyown.

"For most of us, we don't have insurance, because you

can't really insurea tent,and even if youcould, youcan't afford to insureit– that'swhy you'reinthatsituation in the first place."

AJ suffersfromPTSDand finds asolitary lifepreferable, but he said mostofthe other homeless people he had met were struggling because of the cost-of-living crisis.

"People who have worked jobs their entirelife, who've neverbeen welfaredependent, who weren'tdrugaddicts, it'sjust thatthe cost of living has outpaced their ability to earn money, andthat'swhat'sleftthem homeless,"hesaid.

"Their job isn't going up from $35 an hour, but their rent is now$3000 amonth plus.That'sthe real reason thatso manypeople I'vemet areliving in atent. They'restill going to work every day, andthey'restill trying to do everything they can.

"And forthose who areonwelfare, it'senough money to keep your head above water, but it'snot enough

Local Impact Business Grants recipients announced

We’repleased to announcethe recipients of the 2026 Local BusinessImpact Grants:

•Harcourt Farming Coop

•BusinessMount Alexander (Buy Local campaign & digital upskilling)

•Ecoimagine/Michael Chew

•Long Road OliveCo-operativeLtd

•Lifeline Loddon Mallee

Thenew pilot program supports small, practical projects thathelp build a‘wellbeing economy’ –aneconomythat works forpeople,unique places and the environment.

Learn moreabout the grant and the recipients at mountalexander.vic.gov.au/Local-Impact-Grants.

Image: Murnong Mummas, Harcourt Farming Coop project.

Working together forahealthy, connected shire mountalexander.vic.gov.au (03) 5471 1700

moneytohelp youswim to shoreand getyour lifeback on track.

"You spend all of your emotional and physical energy trying to deal with the fact thatyou'reon$300 aweek You'renot eating enough food,thereforeyou'renot getting enough exercise. You'renot getting enough sleep and you getstuckinthis rutof'I'vegot nothing left to givetowork, to society'.Everybody who is in this situation is stuck."

Fortunately,AJwas finally approvedfor the emergency reliefpayment. He has relocatedtoanother suitable location in the shire, wherehewill stay until he can getthe bus fixed, which he estimateswill takeatleast 12 months to getready

"Then Iplan to travel –I mayaswell make themost of the homelessness, and I'vegot the dogs to keep me company."

*Namehas been changed*

Meet themayor

Macedon Ranges mayorKateKendall is opening her office at the KynetonTownHall for weekly 'meetthe mayor' sessions.

These sessions area chancetodiscuss concerns, ask questions, or shareideas about the local community Appointments areavailable in 30-minutesessions. Meetings can be held online via Microsoft Teams, by scheduled phone call, or in person at KynetonTownHall. In-person meetings will generally takeplaceonMondays between 12pm and 2pm.

Fordetails, or to makeanappointment, visit the website: yoursay.mrsc.vic.gov.au/meetthe-mayor

Open Evening

Thursday 26 March, 4:30pm -7:30pm

Book Online: shckyneton.catholic.edu.au

Hands on activities, information sessions and displays -lots to see and do.

After multiple phone calls, emails and advocacy from others, AJ wasfinally approvedfor disaster relieffunding.

‘Heroesamongstheroes’

Lisa Dennis

Thetight-knit community of Harcourt North held a gathering on February 13 to thanksomeofthe heroes who assisted them during thedevastating January 9fireand its aftermath.

Ravenswood South property owner BryanPalmer thanked all the firefighters who cametotheiraid on that fateful dayin"whatmust have been unfathomable circumstances, thateventually sawmorethan 150 appliances battling the fire"

"Therewas adevastating loss of properties, with several local CFAmembersalsolosing homes and businesses, butit could have been ahellofa lotworse. Forevery home that waslost, countless othersweresaved,volunteersputting themselves on the line to help us. Their commitmentcontinues to this day, six weeks later, monitoring the fireground and responding to smokers. Thereisnothing else to saybut thank you, thank you, thankyou," Bryansaid.

These sentiments were metwith arousing round of applause from the crowd

Bryanthen presentedaframedphotograph of the local brigade to Harcourt CFAcaptain Andrew Wilson forthe local 'heroes amongst heroes'.Captain Wilson thanked the community forthe kind giftand wordsofthanks.

"Therewerefirefighters from Merbein to Bass hereon the day. Thefootprintofthis firewas the smallest of the 10 in the stateand atestamenttotheirefforts. We have also had over50strikes teamsvisit in the weeks sinceand our crews continue to work on roster," Mr Wilson said.

"Asacommunity,weneed to sticktogether.The scars of what happened on Friday,January 9, aregoing to stay with us fora long time, but Mother Natureisalready coming back, with green shootsinthe black,"hesaid.

Local youngsterstook the opportunitytopresenttheir CFAheroes, Captain Wilson and fellow Harcourt brigade membersTyrone andRaewyn Rice,with somespecial drawings and messages of thanks.

Mr Wilson then presentedfirst responder,Greater City of Bendigograder driver,Trevor'Richo'Richardson, with a framed photograph taken of him working to put thecritical containmentline in placeasthe fireraged in the background.

Mr Richardson (aka Richo)was expecting to meeta strike team when he arrived in North Harcourt, butcrews had movedawaytotackle the oncoming firefront.With previous fireexperiencehewas able to put his knowledgeand skills into practise.

Taking the initiative, he carved acontainmentline, which has sincebeen dubbed by locals as 'The Richardson Line', behind homes lining McIvor Road, the Harcourt North Community Hall and other structures and is credited with assisting to stop the spread of the fire.

"Itwas areal team effort between local councils, the hundreds of CFAcrews,FRV,FMM, other agencies and the community. That dayhad all the hallmarks of being worse than BlackSaturday, andthe fact thattherewas no injury or death wassuch ablessing,"Richo said.

Youngster Albert personally thanked Richo forsaving their house, before the kids in attendancealso presented the grader driver with somefantastic grader pictures in

Acelebration of gardening, creativityand local talent

KynetonHorticultural Society will host its Annual Flower Show next month, promising avibrantcelebration of gardening, creativity and local talent.

Theshowinvites seasoned growers, passionate home gardenersand enthusiastic young exhibitorsfor twodaysofcolour, fragranceand friendly competition. From carefully cultivated blooms to imaginative floral art, the showreflectsthe rich gardening cultureofthe Macedon Ranges.

This year,organisershaveexpanded the programtoinclude severalnew sections, even the playful nod to every gardener’s ongoing battle, the best container of weeds, with showpatrons invited to judgeand select their favouriteexhibit.

Adding to thewelcomingatmosphere, the Country Women'sAssociation of Victo-

ria –Woodend Eves Branchwill be supporting the eventbyserving their famous scones with jam and cream, adrawcard in its ownright. Visitorscan also enjoy displays from local artists, horticultural businesses and growers,making theshow notonlya floral showcase but acelebration of the wider community Society memberssay the showisabout morethan competition. It is an opportunity to showwhatyou grow andsharewhatyou know, celebrating theseasons and connect withfellowgardening enthusiasts.

TheFlowerShowwill be held on Saturday March21, 11am -4pm,and SundayMarch 22, 10am –3pm at the Watts Pavilion, kynetonShowgrounds.

Fordetails and howtoenter,head along to www.kynetonhort.com.au

thanks forsaving their homes.

"Theywill be going straighttothe poolroom!" Richo commented.

Finally,Harcourt North residentDavid Fiddelaerspresentedthe remnants of acharred fencepost to Harcourt Progress Association member Michael Henry in appreciation of the organisation's incredible support and leadership in the community in the aftermath of the fire.

"Inthose initial days afterthe fire, youprovided aplace forpeople to come together at VMR, youfed us, provided us withessentials, and gave us aspacetoconnect with neighboursand begin the steps towardsrecovery," David said.

Mr Henrysaidsome media outlets queried howtheywould rebuild theHarcourt community in the wake of the fire.

"Myanswertothemwas, 'Itdoesn't need to be rebuilt, this communityisrock solid, it is indestructible, and we will come out of this stronger than before'."

Harcourt CFA captain Andrew Wilson, Harcourt Progress Association representative Michael Henry, and Greater Bendigo grader driver Trevor ‘Richo’ Richardson are pictured with their awards

Photo: Lisa Dennis

Mill returns to publiclife

AmyHume

Campaspe Mill has long captivated people with its grandeur,history and intrigue.Now,for the firsttime, the general public has the chance to step inside the bluestone walls and see it forthemselves.

This circa 1856 beauty began lifeasaflour mill, and afterdecades as aprivate residence, has onceagain returned to publiclife.

Custodians Bill and HelenColebyhavetransformed thebuilding into agin distillery with bistro,gardens, tasting roomsand museum for all to enjoy.

"It'ssuchaniconic place,"Bill said.

"Helen and Ipinch ourselves to think thatwewerelucky enough to be able to purchase it, to liveinitasafamily home and raise our family here.

"The greatest thrill of all forusnow is watching people coming in, thatare equally amazed and equally taken aback by howincredible the building is."

Campaspe Mill wassold to theWardfamily in 1870 and remained in their family through severalgenerations. TheColebys purchased the building in 1996 when it came up forauction, making them its third owners.

Bill said the purchase wasa "completely emotional" one, very much influenced by aloveofhistory and early memories of the building.

"Tosay we'repassionate about it is an understatement,"hesaid.

"I can't imagine other people being morepassionate,and then more doggedly determined to look afteritand turn it into something incredible."

At the time he and Helenalso owned another iconic building: the Antique Centre of Victoria at Lancefield.

"Wehad to decide which one to put our heart and soulinto,"he said.

Thecouple has restored severalhistoric buildings over theyearsand forBill, an interest in history developed at ayoung age.

At just 12 yearsold he and some friends opened apublic museum at Toolern Vale. It wasfilled with all kinds of interesting pieces theyhad collected, but it only operated for about twoweeks before the local council shutitdown.

"Itwas anoble effort,"Bill laughed.

"I absolutely have always been interested in antiques, collecting, history,archaeology and all manner of things."

Theidea of hosting amuseumlives on. Campaspe Mill nowhouses its ownmuseum filled with pieces of interest including items documenting the mill'spast.

Eventually every part of the building will be utilised with plans forother interesting features including afuture a30-seatdegustation restaurantand gallery space.

Bill and Helenhaveastrongfocusonsupporting localand Australian business through their own, and aim to grow andproduceonsite.

Threeyearsago they plantedtheir ownjuniper trees and arenow ready to double that planting, along with newbotanicals and bee hives.

Asoftlaunch in November last year has already seen manypeople through the doors to sample their local seasonal menu and gin range.

Ruby Ginisa provenfavouriteand is made using rubygrapefruit sourcedfromHarcourt. Their Navy Ginisalso highly ranked, followedbytheir DryGin.

Campaspe Mill Distillery will be participating in the Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival and is open forall to enjoy.

Bill and Helen Coleby areopening Campaspe Mill to the public through their new venture.

Worldrecord within reach

From page1

Under official Guinness World Record Guidelines, Angus’ kiteisrequired to remain airborne continuously for24hours. Theeffort will test physical endurance, concentration and resilience, with no sleep permitted during the attempt.

Angus said the motivation behind the attemptwas both personal and community-focused.

“I becameobsessed withkites during Covid, so thereis apersonal challengeaspect to it. Just holding akitereel for 24 hoursmightsound simple enough, butthereare alot of factorsand Iexpectittobecome areal endurancechallenge, especially in the overnightstretch,"hesaid.

“Myother motivation is to raise funds forhumanitarian organisations in Myanmar,whereI lived and worked fora number of years. "While the eyes of the world have moved on, afterfiveyears of civil warthe situation on the ground in Myanmar remains direfor many– so thatwill help keep the motivation up. Beyond thatweneed the wind to keep blowing!”

Funds raised through the attemptwill support humanitarian organisations both inside Myanmar and in its border areas.

Aseasoned fundraiser who brings asense of fun along with his importantwork –you mayremember Angus from hisMullets forMyanmar campaign, or even Necktember (Neckbeards forBurma)– this promises to be even bigger!

Theevent is expectedtobevisually appealing, with overnightflying, sunrise and sunsetmoments, and official timing and verification procedures taking place

Asupport crew will beonhand throughout the attemptto ensuresafetyand compliancewith Guinness World Records requirements.

LAUNCH AT KYNETON

Angus will also be hosting aKynetonlaunchevent,on the public holidayMondayMarch 9, 1-4pm at the bottom football oval.

Therewill be akiteflying display, free kites forkids to fly and takehome, somemore‘serious’kites forthe bigger kids to trytheir hand at too, as well as kiteflying lessons. All welcome, BYOpicnic.

Firiesbattle 45hablaze

Firefightersbattled agrassfirethat burnt45hectares at Bullengarook last Wednesdayafternoonthathad residents in Bullengarook, Coimadai, Gisborne and Lerderdergonalert.Morethan 30 brigades turned outtowith air support and Forest Fire ManagementVictoria to bring the blazeunder controlwithin about six hours. They continuedtopatrolthe grounds until Fridaynight.

Bullengarook Fire Brigade captain Simon Haywardsaid the incident"stretched training, teamwork and endurancetothe limit" and thanked all involved fortheir efforts.

"Whatbegan as afast-moving grass firequickly demanded acoordinatedand sustained response, and the professional-

ism and determination shown on the fire ground were exceptional,"hesaid.

"Ascaptain, Icouldn’t be prouder of how our volunteerssteppedupwhen our community needed us most. Just as criticalwas the tireless work behind the scenes."

"One of the most humbling aspects of incidents likethis is the support we receive from beyond our ownpatch. We areincredibly grateful to thecrews who travelled to stand beside us.The camaraderie and seamless teamwork on the fireground made achallenging daymanageable, and we sincerely thank youfor your commitmentand solidarity."

Local businesses also stepped in to support with food and refreshments.

Crimesyndicate dismantled

An allegedsyndicate responsible fora series of high-end car thefts, including at Gisborne, has been busted, with policecharging four people and recovering 21 stolen vehicles.

Among vehicles seized wasa bobcat, atow truck, aminibus, custom Holden Caprice, Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger and severaltrailersand motorcycles.

It’s alleged the syndicate hadbeen targeting carsparked in public car parks, on the street and at privatebusinesses across multiple suburbs including Coolaroo, Footscray, Gisborne, Derrimut, Deer Park, DiggersRest, Port Melbourne, Thomastownand Tullamarine.

Policealso seized multiple third-party electronic keyreprogramming devices as part of the investigation, which wasallegedly the predominantmethod used by offenderstosteal the vehicles.

Thefirst search warrantwas executed on February 3ataproperty in Wildwood where 10 vehicles were uncovered.

Further search warrants were undertaken on February 16 at Melton, Ascot Vale andSunbury,and on February 17 at Craigieburn wherepolicerecoveredthe remaining 11 vehicles and arrested the twoalleged ringleaders.

Twomen aged 34 and 35, both from Sunbury,havebeenchargedwith morethan 60 offences including multiple counts of burglary,theft of and from motorvehicle, handling stolen goods, recklessly expose policetorisk by driving and multiple counts of commit indictable offencewhile on bail.

They have both been remanded to appear at Sunshine Magistrates Court on March3

Twoother men from Wildwood were chargedwith handling stolen goods, andwere bailed to appear at court at alater date

In addition to the21vehicles recovered, policealso recoveredarangeofother items including: twothirdpartyelectronic keyreprogramming devices, multiple sets of keys,multiple falseand stolen registration plates, various tools, windowbreaker,multiple electronic devices, morethan $3800 in cash, and asmall quantity of drugs believedtobecannabis and methylamphetamine.

Programs &Services

Get Connected Mount Alexander

Get Connected Mount Alexander helps adults 25+ build social connections that support wellbeing.Co-designed locally, the program works with health professionals to link participants to community activities that enrich life and foster connection.

Social prescribingconnects people with non-medical needstogroups and activities that boostemotional and physical health. Withthe guidance of a Community Connector, participants who are ready or open to engaging socially can access opportunities to flourish. This program is not designed for people needing additional health or complex mental health support, but aims to strengthen community connection for those able to participate independently. For more information, contactour Community Connector on 0457 061 320.

Current vacancies

Volunteering opportunities

Something for everyone

Dhelkaya Health offers many different volunteeringprograms –there’s truly something for everyone, regardless of interests, skills, or availability.

Spread the word and tell your friends and family about the wide variety of rewarding roles we currently have on offer.

Position descriptions are available for the following roles, and we’re more than happy to share them with anyone who expresses an interest:

• Chatty Café Host Volunteer

• Volunteer Connector

• Volunteer Co-host

• Residential Aged Care Performers

• Patient Transport Drivers

•Associate Nurse Unit Manager, ThompsonHouse – Ongoing/part-time

•Allied Health Inpatient Residential Program Lead – Fixed-term/part-time

•Store Person – Ongoing/full-time

• Admin Support, Custodial Health, Tarrengower Women's Prison – Ongoing/part-time

•AtHome Services Coordinator – Ongoing/part-time

•Facilities Team Leader – Ongoing/full-time

For further information about any of these volunteer roles contact: ecoller@castlemainehealth.org.au Healthier Together dhelkayahealth.org.au |(03) 54713555

Angus Johnstone practisesfor his KiteWorldRecordattempt.

Getting down to BUSINESS

Locally owned and operated forover30years. Their experienced operators areprofessional,friendly and availableseven days aweek!Theycan provideadvice on the bestway to maintain the health of your septic systems.

If it has been morethan three yearssince youhad your septic cleaned, or thereare bad smells or gurgling coming from your septic tank, toilets or drains, then youneed to call Rose's Liquid Waste,your Macedon Ranges based septic tank cleaning specialist. Rose's specialises in septic tank pump outs, including all brands of treatmentplants, sewertransfers, holding tank pump outs, commercial grease

pump outs, triple interceptors and industrial car washes. Contact Rose's foranassessmentand they'll be in touchtodiscussyour septic tank requirements.

Harris Made Carpentry has proudly serviced the Macedon Ranges forover fiveyears, delivering high-quality workmanship across all aspects of carpentry.

With astrong focusonquality over quantity,wespecialise in renovations, decks, pergolas and custom carpentry projects.

We pride ourselves on honest advice, clear communication, and reliable workmanship from start to finish.

ContactDarcy todaytodiscuss your upcoming project.

residentsandbusinesses navigatetheplanningpermit processacrossresidential, commercial,industrialand subdivisionprojects.

Getting down to BUSINESS

Preserving life’s memories

Talentedlocal filmmaker NooraNiasari is offering residents an incredible opportunitytodocumenttheir loved-ones' stories, immortalising their memories forever.

Nooraand her partner Keiran WatsonBonnice, who has yearsofpost-production experience,broughttheir collective love andexpertise in filmmaking together to form Parandeh Picturesin2022.

Back from thewhirlwind tour of Noora's 2023 Sundanceaward-winning film, SHAYDA,Nooradecided to slow down and connect with the communityand reconnect with her documentary-making rootsbystartinganoralhistory service.

Theidea took form aftershe wasapproached to interviewa friend of afriend

who had been diagnosed withstagefour cancer

"I interviewedher early last year,and it wassucha beautiful experience.I felt like Igot to know this remarkable human being and captureher stories,"Noorasaid

"Four weeks later, she passed away While the family wasexpecting it, it'snever easy, andtheyweresograteful to have this record of their lovedone, including memories theyhad neverheardbefore.

"I found the whole experience grounding aftermaking SHAYDA,because it was suchaone-on-one experiencethatbrought me back to theessenceofconnecting with people and telling stories.

"Wehavethe firmbeliefthateveryone has astory to tell.The nature of memory is this dynamic flowing thing, so Inever stop that, but Ican gently guide them back if I

Have your say on footbridge

Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil is seeking feedback on aproposaltorename theClarke Street footbridgeoverWillimigongon Creek at MountMacedon as the 'Christine Walker Footbridge'

This proposed renaming is in honour of the late South Ward councillor Christine Walker, who died unexpectedly last August while serving on council. Christine wasapassionate advocate forthe recent replacementofthis footbridgeand made manycontributions to the local community

Feedback is invited until 11.59pmonTuesday, March10.

Inputwill help council consider the proposal before lodging it withGeographic Names Victoria forformal approval

need to," Noorasaid.

Nooraand her team arededicatedto offering acustomisedexperience, offering filming services either at their spaceatthe Mill or at people's homes.

It’s aunique opportunity forlocals to preservetheir stories on video.

"Itcan be abeautiful gift fora family member or lovedone in differentscenarios, especially forpeople laterinlifewho haven'thad achancetobeheardinthat way,”Noora said.

"The last clientwehad, the woman said, 'I feel likea movie star'.She felt really seen and really special. Iloved that.For someone to gettotheir 90sand nothavehad thatfeeling, it wasreally lovely to provide thatfor her.”

Formoreinformation, contact the team by email at:hello@parandehpictures.com

Jade Jungwirth

Twovoices, heldinglass

Glass Dialogues brings together the collaborativepracticeof glass artists Jude Walker and Natalie Ireland,who have been working in close creativeconversation since2023.

While their individual approaches differthe exhibition, with its combinations of warm glass fusing and casting, is shaped by an ongoing exchange of ideas, materials and perspective.

At the core of the work is the transformation of glass itself; of colour,and perception in 2D and 3D art glass and functional glass. Both artists areinterestedinhow glass shifts between states: solid and fluid, fragile and resilient, transparentand opaque. Through making, they exploresubtle changes in heat, lightand colour,which alter notonly the material but perception.

Theworks invitecontemplation. Colour is used notasdecoration, but as atool to bend light, create depth, and reveal form gradually.Surface, thickness and shadowplayactiveroles, encouraging viewers to seefamiliar shapes and materials differently depending on angle, distanceand lightconditions.

Glass Dialogues embraces contrast and exchange reflecting a shared curiosity about process, personal developmentand the waycreativepractices evolve through conversation.Together, Walker and Ireland offera body of work thatspeaks across difference— adialogue between twovoices, held in glass.

Theexhibition at TheGallery MountMacedon opens Tuesday March3 and finishes MondayMarch 30.

TheGallery is celebrating its 20th year and is open 10am to 4pm, FridaytoTuesday, at 684 Mt Macedon Road,MountMacedon (behind the Trading Post).

Poetspresentonwomen

To celebrateInternational Women’s Day, KynetonLibrary is hosting aone-hour session of poems, stories and chatfrom2pm on Thursday, March5

Presenting poets, Anne Gleesonand Angela Costi, who areknown fortheir advocacy,will speak of womentheyloveand admire, and presenta unique perspectiveonotherswhom we only know through the media.

Angela, aformer lawyer who has movedfrom advocating through the lawtoadvocating in the moreintimate spaceofpoetry, presents aunique perspectiveonwomensuchasLindy Chamberlain or the Cypriotwomen from whom she is descended.

Anne, who also writes forthose whose stories would otherwise notbetold, is adding some poems of local women to her personal stories and poems of better-known women. Therewill be time forquestions forthose who enjoythatinteraction and spacefor those who prefer to listen.

Everyone is invited, but thelibrary prefers bookings, either through their Events page or by phoning 5422 1365.

Anne Gleesonand Angela Costi willpresenttogether at the KynetonLibrary next month.

My haybale –Natalie Ireland.

Kyneton Health staff Tamsyn Dicker (admin) and Maddie RyanReynolds (occupational therapist) with the SOZO Body Analyser and the Podiatry Doppler ultrasound device

KynetonHospital offersnew services

KynetonHealth has introduced new services and equipmenttomakeiteasier forpatients to access high-quality,bulkbilled Allied Health support closetohome.

In recent months, KynetonHealth has strengthened its lymphoedema careand cancer support services, and added anew podiatry service.

Local residents living withlymphoedema or cancer no longer need to travel long distances forsupportivecare. Lymphoedema is ongoing swelling caused by fluid collecting in the tissues, most ofteninthe arms or legs. It occurswhen the lymphatic systemisunabletodrain fluid effectively, which can cause discomfort and make daily activities moredifficult.

To better support people at risk of,or living with, lymphoedema, theteamat KynetonHealth nowusesthe SOZO body analyser,a medicalgrade devicedesigned to:

•Measurefluid levels in each limb to help detect and monitor lymphoedema

•Track howwell treatmentisworking overtime

•Assess muscle, bone and fatlevelsto support healthyageing and recovery

This same technology also benefits people attending Oncology Support Programs and HealthyMind and Movement Programs, helping them rebuild strength and confidenceduring and aftercancer treatment.

KynetonHealth has also bolstered its podiatry servicewith thepurchase of a newDoppler ultrasound devicetobettersupportpeople with complexhealth needs. Thedeviceassesses blood flowin

the feet and lowerlegs, helpingidentify circulation issues and support safe podiatry care. Thedevicewas purchased using funds raised by the communitylastyear, highlighting the generosity and strong local support

Podiatry services areavailable to patients witha GP Chronic Condition ManagementPlan or aSupport at Home package, with no out of pocketcost. Please discuss your foot and lowerlimb health needs with your GP to determine suitability forreferral to CHRH podiatry services.

Allservicesare bulk billed to makecare moreaccessible.

John Davis, Allied Health Manager at KynetonHealth, said theAlliedHealth team wasdedicatedtohelping our community thrive.

"Asour region continues to grow,we arefocused on meeting community needs by supporting as manypeople as possible, so they can access the caretheyneed closer to home.”

If youorsomeone youcarefor is:

•Living with lymphoedema or at risk of swelling

•Going through cancer treatmentor adjusting to lifeafter treatment

•Unsurewhatlocal support is available

•Looking forbulk billed services with no out-of-pocket costs

Contact KynetonAlliedHealth Reception to find outhow theycan help or to discuss referral options with your GP

Forreferrals or moreinformation, call 5422 9946 or email: alliedhealth.kyneton@chrh.org.au

Twoevents

An author panel and atheatrical performancewill be held at Kynetonaspartof International Women's Day.

In 2026, the theme forInternational Women’s Day is #BalanceTheScales –a promise thatevery womanand girl should be safe,heardand free to shapeher own future.

TheDeplorables is ajoyous, uplifting and fabulously musical theatrical journeythat tells the story of twowomen’s teamsplaying cricket forthe first time in Australia.

This performancewill be held at Kyneton Town Hall on Saturday, February 28, from 7.30pm.

Ticketsare sellingfast.

Thecelebrations continue with 'Brave, Bonkers, and Brilliant– In Conversation with KazCooke' on Friday, March13, at 7pm at KynetonTownHall. Belovedauthor KazCookewill shareher insights on cutting through the clutterofonline advice, wellness fads, social media pressureand everydaylifechallenges.

From teenagerstocareer women, parents to thosenavigating menopause, this engaging conversation promises laughter, wisdom and practical tips.

Kazwill be in conversationwith creative strategist AnyezLindop, and will also be available to sign books following theevent Forticketsand eventdetails, visit the website: mrsc.vic.gov.au/IWD

'Originally from DerryinIreland Icompleted my Medical Degree in Belfast in 2018. Ithen spent 3years working in avariety of surgical and medical specialties in Ireland beforemoving to Melbourne in 2021 whereI spent time working in avariety of specialties such as Emergency Medicine, Paediatricsand Psychiatrybeforedeciding to startrural GP training in Elmore2025.

Ihavereallyenjoyedthe transition to general practice,particularly the continuity of care and sense of community.Myareas of interest include chronic disease management, paediatrics and mentalhealth.

In my free time Ienjoyplaying soccer,gaelic football, bouldering and going to footy games as tragic Essendon supporter.'

BECAUSEOUR WATERSTORAGES AREDROPPING

With drier seasons and growing towns, Victoria’swater supply is under pressure. This summer make every drop count.

Safe andsustainable? No ducking way!

Kerrie Allen, MountAlexander WildlifeWatch

It’s distressing to manythatanother full three-month nativebirdshoothas just been approvedacrossVictoria starting next month. About 99.95 per cent of Victorians will be effectively locked out of overhalf the state’s public wetland area fora quarter of the year,sothat0.5 per cent can fireshotguns at nativebirds forfun. Nine ducks aday per shootercan be 'bagged',including species thatare protected in other statesbecause of their particularly low numbers.

It's hard to fathom thereasoning of whoever called the shots, given declining birdnumbers, ongoing drought, recent firesand the fact thatrural communities have already endured enough. Notably,although one in four Victorians nowliveregionally,noVictorian minister has ever accepted an invitation to witness whatit'sactually like.

In a2023 survey of morethan 800 people, morethan half reported feeling unsafe when birdshooting occurred nearby. Thoroughbred agistersdescribed 'freaked out' horses. Kayakers and birdwatchersabandoned activities. Campersreported unknowingly setting up near shooters, and leaving in distress. Interstate visitorssaid theywere traumatised, with somevowing nevertoreturn to Victoria.

FirstNations Clans were blunt: “Shooting them,you’re shooting our people”. Families described boats of camouflaged men withgunsnear children enjoying water sports, injured birds limping from waterways, and a"war-like" atmospherethatdisrupted sleep, livelihoods and daily life.

Arequestsubmitted over ayear agotoEnvironment Minister SteveDimopoulos asking forjust 25 public areas to be excluded from shooting appearstohavefallen on deafears.

Cairn Curran Reservoir in MountAlexander Shireis one area thatremains open to shooters, despite repeated requests from community, local governmentand MPsfor its exclusion. With the reservoir nowatjust 28 per cent capacity,locals sayduck hunting herewill be likeshooting fish in abarrel.

Thescienceisunambiguous about what'satstake Thelatest, 43rd, annual East Australian Aerial Waterbird Survey,the mostcomprehensivelong-term dataseton waterbirdabundance, breeding and habitat, deliversdeeply alarming news

Despitesignificantflood events in 2025, the abundance of most 'game'duck species (the nativespecies allowedto be shotfor 'recreation'for three months each year while being otherwise protected) remains well belowlong-term averages.

Five continue to show significantlong-term decline. Several— black duck, mountain duck and Australasian shoveler—evenrecorded significantdeclines in the number of wetland sites theyoccupied, suggesting contractions in their geographicrange. Breeding activitywas limited almost entirely to just fivenon-duckspecies.

Sadly,thisunrivalled scienceappearstocarry little weightwith Victoria's 'independent' regulator, the Game

Master plan progresses

Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil is progressing amaster plan forthe Riddells Creek Recreation Reserve, to guide its futuredirection and development.

Thereserveislocatedcentrally within Riddells Creek andcomprises 12.35 hectares of open space.

This master plan aimstoidentify and outline potential renewals and upgrades, to

ManagementAuthority, which has removedstakeholder consultation from its decision-making.

To justify last year'sshoot, the GMA's core messageto Minister Dimopoulos spruiked an estimated four million ducks, while failing to disclose thatonlya tinyfraction of thatnumber were actually counted. Theremaining four million-odd were produced through questionable modelling assumptions. At the time of writingthis article, theregulator’srecommended justification forthis year’sshootisstill conspicuously absentfrompublicview.

It's understandable that regional communities feel snubbed by government, and the state's environmental and safety credentials continue to plummet.

refresh existing facilitiesreaching end-of-life and support the forecast growth of the Riddells Creekpopulation.

In this initialround, the council aimsto geta senseofhow people use the reserve and whattheywould liketosee there. Feedback closed yesterday, andwill be followedbymoreopportunities to have your saylater in the year

Several cases of travellers with Measles have been reported in Victoria. Symptoms include fever, cough,soreorred eyes (conjunctivitis), runny nose, and feelinggenerally unwell. Symptoms can develop between 7to18daysafter exposure. Book to see adoctor and inform staff immediately of your concerns and symptoms. Call our reception team or book online.

Pacific black duck Photo: Eleanor Dilley

Free 24/7 urgenthealthcare

Videocall from your mobile or computer anywhere,anytime

Connect to highly skilled emergencydoctorsand nurses from Victoria’s Virtual EmergencyDepartment

No GP referral, Medicarecardorappointment needed

Register nowsoyou’re ready to useusinthe future

Scan the QR code to register noworvisit: vved.au/self_registrations

Find out moreat urgentcare.vic.gov.au

Endof Summer

Property Liftout

MIDLAND Property &Living

A landmark residence of grandeur and distinction

'Leithen'c1895 is agrand and enduring Castlemaine residenceofarchitectural presence, elevatedfromthe streetbehind abeautifully composed ornamental front garden.

Built in solid brick by renowned local contractor H.D McBean, the residencesits within one of Castlemaine's most admired heritagestreetscapes and immediately asserts its staturethrough acommanding and confident façade.

AWelsh slate roof,traditional tuckpointing, double gables and the highly unusual externally setchimney, a distinctiveand rarely seen detail of the period, combine to create afaçade of exceptional character and authority

Inside, awide centralhallunfolds beneath high ceilings and an elegantdecorativearchway,with period pine timber floorsand soft carpet underfoot. Double hung windows,ornate plasterwork and generous proportions reflect the craftsmanship and confidenceof the era. At the frontofthe home, adistinguished library or principal bedroom is crowned by adramatic4.2 metredecorativecovedceiling and features amarble fireplacesurround and abroad arched window, creating an ideal spacefor quietretreat or refined entertaining. Asecond front-facing bedroom enjoys abay of double hung windows capturing elevatedviews across historic Castlemaine, complementedbyhigh ceilings and detailed plasterwork.

Afurther bedroom continues thehome's consistent sense of heritagecharm,complete with an open fireplaceand built in robes. Centrallylocated, the updated bathroom is generous and well appointed, incorporating abath, shower, vanity and toilet, seamlessly integrated within the original footprint

Formal dining continues beneath high ceilings and is anchored by another open fireplacewith an ornate period surround and mantle, flowing naturally through to the rear kitchen.

Overlooking the north-facing terraceand vine coveredpergola, this recently updated, high specification kitchen is designed forbothfunctionalityand connection to theoutdoors. It is equipped witha Neff

wall oven,steam oven, warming drawer and induction cooktop, atwo drawer dishwasher,and awalk in pantry with direct access to thewine cellar

Adjoining the kitchen is the home's most breathtaking living space, defined by an extraordinary ornate ceiling rising to nearly four metres. Alarge stained glass baywindowfloods the room withnatural lightand incorporates abuilt-in benchseatframedbyintricate timber fretwork, creating aspacethatisbothvisually striking and deeply inviting. Agas logfireset within a period style surround provides warmth and ambience, establishing this room as thetrueheart of the home.

To the rear,ahighly versatile zone offers exceptional flexibility as amain suite, second living area, studio or private guest accommodation.

Thegarden unfoldsasaprivateand established sanctuary,designed forbothbeautyand function. A vine-covered pergola extendsfromthe northfacing terrace, creating ashaded outdoor room ideal forlong lunches, entertaining or quietretreat,withdappled light and seasonal interest throughoutthe year.Brick-edged garden beds define pathways and planting zones, while established trees and shrubs provide structure, scale and asense of permanence.

Rich in history,scale andarchitectural elegance, 'Leithen'presents an exceptional opportunitytosecure alandmark heritageresidencewhererefinement, functionality and provenance converge in one of Castlemaine's most coveted residential settings.

Property: ‘Leithen’c1895

Address: 39 Bull Street,Castlemaine

Price: $1,685,000

Agent: Cantwell Property

Contact: TomRobertson 0473 642 644

MIDLAND Property &Living

Landmarkofarchitectural significance

An extraordinary and tightly held landmark of architecturalsignificance, this magnificent property offers arareopportunity to securea pieceofhistory,exquisitely reimagined forcontemporary living. Setbehind privategardens and benefiting from valuable commercial zoning, this exceptional propertyisperfectly suited to agallery,creative studio, boutique business, bed and breakfast, or an unforgettable private residence. Originally constructedcirca 1886, this distinguished RenaissanceRevival parapeted bank building wasdesigned by renowned Melbourne architectural firm Terry &Oakden and served as the National Bank of Australasia from 1886 until 1942. Theproperty standstodayasabeautifully preserved testamenttothe grandeur and craftsmanship of the era.

Thebreathtaking former banking chamber nowserves as avastand atmospheric living space. Soaring five-metrepressed-metal ceilings create an immediate sense of scale, complementedbyexpansivecurvedwindows adorned withluxurious velvet drapes. Acosywood fireanchorsthe room,offering warmth and ambiencewhile highlighting the building’srich architectural heritage.

Theromantic, light-filled main bedroom features an open fireplace, while asecond queen bedroom offers an airy and tranquil retreat. Athirdsingle bedroom is located upstairs, adjoining the mezzanine library,creating apeaceful and character-filled space ideal forguests, study,orcreativepursuits. Original details suchaspolished timber floorshavebeenlovingly preserved and seamlessly paired with modern comforts, including hydronicheating, ceiling fans,and abeautifully appointedkitchen and bathroom.

Outdoors, the secluded country garden provides aprivate sanctuary,showcasing a delightful blend of established trees, lush lawn, and inviting deckedareas.Anoutdoor antiqueclawfoot bath adds atouch of indulgenceand whimsy, perfect forsoaking away the day. Adiscreetgarden gate opens directly onto the village, placing cafés, boutiques, and dining just ashort stroll away

An emerging gastronomic destination, Lancefield is home to acelebrated array of local food and wine experiencesincluding theLost Watering Hole Brewery,Cleveland Estate andCurly Flat Wineries, TheLancefield Providore, and the iconic monthly Lancefield FarmersMarket conveniently locatedacross the street. Allofthis lies less than an hour from Melbourne’s CBDand 20 minutes from Kyneton and Woodend, making this an exceptional lifestyle or investmentopportunity within athriving regional community.Land size: 607 squaremetresapprox.

Property: TheLancefield Branch c1886

Address: 33 High Street,Lancefield

Sale: Expression of Interest closing WedFeb 25, 5pm

Agent: JellisCraig

Contact: LeannePearman0400 947 799 Kerryn Wildenburg0420 473 041

Captivating and beguiling in apark-likesetting

Superbly sited within its delightful garden setting and taking advantageofthe variety of views over its 7.5 acres is this well-located and well-appointedfamily home.

With high ceilings, extensiveverandahs and lovely constant garden views from within, thereisa comfortable ambiance throughoutthe home. An elegantformal sitting room andits adjacentdining section flowseamlessly through to thelarge family room/kitchen/meals complex– awell-designed space forentertaining and/or relaxation. Thereisa huge pantry with ample storagethrough which adouble lock-up garageiseasily accessed.

Themain bedroom is expansiveand features awalk-in robw,superbviews and an ensuite; afurther guest bedroom is ideally placed forprivacy and has its ownensuiteand built-in robess.

Twoother bedrooms have built-in robess and their own family bathroom. Thereisalsoadedicatedstudy

Zoned floor heating and evaporative coolingare added bonuses.

Outside, avarietyofmaturetrees and bountiful garden beds offera relatively low-maintenance option pluscalm and serene spaces forreading, resting or contemplation. The plantings within thepropertyare thoughtful and rewarding all year round.

With town water,a grey watertreatmentsystem,threephase power, comfort pluswindows,alarge storageshed, a woodshed, atandem car port, aprettydam andaprivatenativewoodland mini-forest –this propertywill reward aclose inspection. Awelcoming and dedicatedchildren’s playground plus 32 solar panels indicate thecurrent owners’ attention to detail.

Theproperty is ararity and is situatedinatightly held and exclusivepocketofWoodend only 3kms from thetown centre

Property: Spacioushome set within park-like gardens on 7.5 acres

Address: 116WhitelodgeRoad, Woodend Price: $2.2m

Agent: Keatings Real Estate Contact: RayCashmore 0419 851 334

Aprivatearchitectural sanctuary

Elevatedand immersed in privacy on atightly held 5075m² garden allotment, this architect-designed residencebyWolveridgeArchitects is amasterclass in restrained luxury -moments from theBotanic Gardens, yetentirely removedfromthe everyday.

Custom-built by acclaimed local builder Edifice, the home delivers over 350m²ofrefined living whereconsidered architecture,tactile materials and seamless indoor–outdoor flowdefine daily life. Floor-to-ceiling thermally broken double glazing frames thedramaticraked-ceiling living domain, anchored by aburnished concrete slab with hydronicin-floor heating. Oversized 2400mm doorways,the absenceofarchitraves and skirtings, and flawless custom joinery create asense of quietgenerosity and cohesion throughout.

At its heart,the entertainer's kitchen balances sculptural form with everydayfunctionality.PremiumAEG appliances, astriking Neolith benchtopand acustom American oakisland inviteconnection and lingering conversation. Retractable Centor screens and stacking doors dissolvethe threshold to afully appointed outdoor entertaining pavilion -complete with built-in barbecue, integrated refrigeration and seatingoverlooking landscaped grounds and aheatedpool.

Accommodation is both generous and adaptable, comprising four beautifully appointedbedrooms withextensiverobes and bespoke cabinetry,complementedbya secondary living room or library retreat. Acleverly designed two-way powder room connects directly to the pool zone,where bold goldenleopardwallpaper introduces an unexpected, playful edge.

Beneaththe suspended slab, afour-cargaragewithintegrated gym spaceis enhanced by industrial-grade insulation and acoustic treatments, ensuring absolutecomfort above.Anadditional two-car carport andaremarkable 18×12m high-clearancegarage/workshop/studio with 3.6m doorsprovide exceptional capacity forvehicles, creativepursuits or homebusiness potential.

Externally,the material paletteisequally compelling. Vertical black LysaghtEnseam cladding intersects with custom-milled blackbutt timber, designed to weathergracefully into the surrounding bushland. Cemintel Barestonepanels, locally sourcedstone and yellowsandstone crazy paving introducetexture,permanenceand astrong connection to place. Thegardens arebothsculptural and purposeful –original trees retained, expansivelawns softened by layeredplanting, and araised IG heatedpoolascentrepiece. TheRemcoCoverstarautomatedpoolcover deliverssafetyand thermal efficiency,while theelevatedaggregate pool deck and custom banquetteseating provide refined vantagepoints for entertaining or quietretreat

This is ahome wherenothing clamours forattention,yet everyelementhas been meticulously resolved. Arareoffering of architectural integrity,privacy and elevatedcountry living in one of thearea's most tightly held enclaves.

Awards

•2022 MBVBestRenovation &Addition

•Featured on Channel 9'sAustralia's Best House –'Best Family Home'category

Property: Architect-designed residence

Address: 19 Burnett Road,Castlemaine

Price: $2,750,000

Agent: Belle Property

Contact: RobWaller 0418 571 130 NarelleWaller 0408 571 131

(RHYSNUTTALL) 0438 383 221 rhys@boundrealestate.com.au

(CAROLYN RYAN ) 0407393 079 carolyn@boundrealestate.com.au

(LYNNE PAYNE) 0479 068 228 lynne@boundrealestate.com.au

(ALEX WHITE) 0488 990 212 alex@boundrealestate.com.au

(PAULBOHAN ) 0413 594 224 paul@boundrealestate.com.au

(SHANTELLECARDWELL-SMITH) 0421 217 582 shantelle@boundrealestate.com.au

(DAMIEN

) 0439 391569 damien@boundrealestate.com.au

(JOESSEX ) 0479 064 678 jo@boundrealestate.com.au

Woodend BoundaryRoad (Corner of Sullivans Road)

5.4 Ha (13 Acres) With Planning Permit

Aperfect answer foryour tree change dream home.

Features include beautiful viewstoMountMacedon,excellentsoils,good perimeter fencing, somenicenativetreestands,your ownveryprivatelake with asurfaceareaofapproximately 1.6 acres,and only 3.1 kmsfromthe vibrant Woodend shopping centre

Price$925,000

Terms 10% deposit,balance30/60/90/120days

Zoning Rural Conservation Zone (RCZ1) Call John Keating 0419880 444 or RayCashmore0419851 334

Gisborne South

FloreatCourt(off Cabbage Tree Lane) Outstanding Small Acreage Homesites/Farmlets

Features Sealed road frontages with driveway entrances constructed, excellentsoils,beautiful viewsfrommost lots,underground powersupply,NBN and B-class recycled water areall available

Please note Thenew titles foreachproperty have been issued by the Office of Titles,ready foryou to build your dream home on immediately To view call RayCashmore0419851 334 or John Keating 0419 880 444

Terms 5% balancein30/60/90/120 days

MIDLAND

Express

The Castlemaine celebrates

TheFestival Club Returns SaturdayMarch 21 to Saturday, March28.

Free entryevery night. CuratedbyTim Ratcliffe and featuring ahugeline-up of Maine FM DJs, including JenMoore, Joel Pearson, Rosie Ramjet, JustinWalsh, SamWills, Wassili& PiscesJones. No twonights arethe same! And don’tforgetthe Kids 6-11and Youth 12-17 sessionsatthe Festival Club.

Extraordinary/Ordinary –LivePodcast Recordingon SaturdayMarch 28.

Hosted and produced by Lisa D’Onofrio, Extraordinary/Ordinary is apodcast series thatcommemorates andcelebrates women, living and historicalinCentralVictoria. As part of the Festival, Lisa will be joined by Natasha Joyceand Louise Cooper fora special live recording of aMaldon-themed episode in the Maldon Progress Hall.

NewWorks and Premieres. Castlemaine the Musicalis the talkof thetownhaving sold out fourshows.Muchlovedlocal musicianAryoHall is debutingthe AryoSeno Ensemblewhich exploresa vibrant sound worldwhere tradition andinnovation meet. Underland –anintimate immersive performance–offersreflections on stillness, deep time, and thesubterrain. Whilst Tubango reimagines the works of Astor Piazzolla.

In the last of our50th anniversary features w aneclectic mixoffreeand ticketed events, lo multitude of artsforms and genres.With afo and producing works by artist and companie has over20new works, commissions and pre Buda HistoricHomeand Garden,Castlemaine A Festival, Castlemaine Fringe, HotMoves No Pre Images: supplied by Festival artists castlemainefe

e State Festival s 50 years

Tough choices with twouniqueshows –bothonFriday 27 March!

Acknowledgement –a special festival commissionatthe TownHall- brings together Songman KutchaEdwards and composer James Rigby. Grass with live accompanimentbyZoj was commissioned by CDoc in 2023 and is returningto the TheatreRoyal. Compassionate, mesmerizing works –which will youchoose?

6 Festival

we look forward to the 2026 Festivalocal and visiting artists, workshops and a cus on Castlemaine Created – presenting s from across the region- the 2026 program emieres Local program partners include Art Museum,Castlemaine Documentary essure, Northern Books and Punctum Inc.

Make,Move,Play.

In 2026 thereisanabundance of workshop to exploreyour creativity –beitasadancer, musician,writer, painterormaker.

TheRegional DanceSumit –hosted by MovementZone –offersafull dayof workshops,classes andconversations fordancers of allagesand stages. The BigString Day is an all-ages workshop sandperformancefor string players of every level. In the CompanyofSmall Things workshops invite participants to pause, ponder and get making with artists Dianne Longleyand Clayton Tremlett and Buda curatorsSarah Frazer andRyan Garrett.

Image: BigString Day

Interactivetheatre.

Exceptional experiences forchildren under 12 years at theCastlemaine Goods Shed Someone in the Dark (Ages 3-6) is agently spooky immersive adventurethat blends puppetry and visual storytelling. TheBoy and the Ball (ages3-4) is awordless performancethatinvites playfulness,curiosity,and wonder TheGlitterbug Club (Ages 4-12 years)brings high energy, many costume changes, and joyful chaos. Intimate andinteractive –all three shows will delightyoung andolder audiences.

MIDLAND

Express

aproperty that embodies timeless elegance and refined country living. Set on approximately 11.4 acres of rolling landscape, this magnificent property offers an opportunity to own astylish home, additional cottages and extensive infrastructureall set within magnificently

Lifestyle

28th Feb

9:30am-9:50am

easy walking distance of Castlemaine’stown centre. Freshly painted interiors, new carpet and timber-clad ceilings throughout enhancethe home’s light-filled, move-in-ready appeal.

outstanding opportunity for first home buyers, downsizers or those seeking arelaxed lifestyle just minutes from Castlemaine.

Comfort,convenienceand futurepotential

Perfectly positioned just moments from Kyneton'stowncentreand the celebratedPiper Street precinct,37Yaldwyn Street West offers an enviable blend of convenience, comfort and future potential in one of the town's most sought-after pockets. From thestreet, lush established gardens create awarm sense of privacy,with matureplantings providing shade and a leafy outlook that instantly feelslikehome. Inside, this easyto-live-in three-bedroom brick veneer residencehas been thoughtfully refreshed formodern living. An openplan lounge with reverse-cycle heating and cooling invites relaxedevenings, while alarge,light-filled family meals area flows seamlessly into the stylish, practical kitchen –recently upgraded and perfectly suited to everydaymeals, entertaining and family connection.

Threecomfortable bedrooms, all with built-in robes, areservicedbya spacious, recently upgraded fresh centralbathroom thatcompletes the home's inviting feel

At the rear,agenerous and beautifully maintained garden opens up aworld of lifestyle opportunity. Manicured, low maintenance and fully secure, it'sideal forchildren or dogs to roam freely,weekend entertaining, or simplyenjoying the sunshine.

With ample spaceand aflexible layout, thereisexciting scope to extend or addonovertime (STCA), allowing the home to grow with you.

Setwithin easywalking distanceofKyneton's town centre, shops, schools and transport, and just around thecorner from PiperStreet'smuch-lovedcafés, eateries and boutiquestores, this is alocation thattruly enhances everydayliving.

Whether you're afirst home buyer,downsizer or investor, this is ahomethatofferscomfort now, lifestyle every dayand promise forthe future

Property: Three-bedroom brickveneer residence

Address: 37 Yaldwyn Street West, Kyneton

Price: $675,000 -$720,000

Agent: Raineand Horne Kyneton

Contact: Jason Woodford-Smith 0478 000 441

Be among thefirst to exploreawhole newlifeatGemLife

NewGisborne–a brand-new over-50slifestyle resort in the heartofthe spectacularMacedon Ranges region

Join us foranexclusive previewofStage One, coming soon

You’ll meetthe creatorsbehindthe communityand learnabout theresort’sstylish,low-maintenancehomes with modern comforts, premiuminclusions,and energy-smartfeatures.

Getready to discoverthe exceptionallifestyle amenitiesto come,including $20million of resort facilitiescentredarounda historic restored century-oldhomestead.

DATE Thursday and Friday,5-6 March2026

TIME Session 1: 10am to 12pm Session 2: 2pm to 4pm

WHERE Baringo Food &Wine Co. (Platform 3) 283Station Road, New Gisborne RSVP Register online by Tuesday,3March at GemLife.com.au/gnginfo

Rare Hesket holding –firsttime

DELIGHTFUL FAMILY SETTING

•Three generous bedrooms plus flexible fourth bedroom/ home officewith directaccess to the privaterear garden.

•Modern centralbathroom, spacious lounge and recently updatedkitchen, with optional second living area.

•Reverse cycle air conditioning foryear-round comfort, light-filled interiors and adaptable family floorplan.

•Sheltered outdoor entertaining area, ample shedding, securefencing and established gardens in apeaceful Maldon setting

Nestled within one of the most beautiful and tightly held pocketsofthe Macedon Ranges, this remarkable 37-acre propertypresents an extraordinary opportunity to secure apieceofHesket history

Held by the samefamily forover80years, 130 Hylands Road embodies the rare blend of heritage, serenity and possibility that defines this coveted region.

Framed by sweeping rural vistas, rolling pasturesand matureshelter trees, the property captures the very essenceofHesket'sappeal –tranquillity,fresh mountain air and atrue connection to the land. North-facing and gently undulating, it offers asuperbfoundation forthose seeking apeaceful country lifestyle just minutes from Woodend and MountMacedon.

Thethree-bedroom home is comfortable and inviting, featuring openplan living, aslow-combustion wood fire, stone-topped kitchen, and adeck thattakes in the gloriousnorthern aspect. Move straightin, reinvigorate the currenthome,ortakeadvantageofthe excellentbuilding envelope to extend, redesign or createa contemporary country retreat–the opportunities areendless.

In addition to the main residence is afully self-contained one-bedroom, one-bathroom unit, offeringexcellentversatility.Perfect forguests,extended family, or use as an artist'sstudio or private home office, it provides additional accommodation while maintaining privacy and separation from the main house– ideal formodern multigenerational living or creativepursuits.

Tradespeople, artists and collectors alikewill appreciatethe outstanding infrastructure, including a12x12m Americanbarn, a30 x7.6 mstorage shed, and twodams. Whether you'reseeking workshop space,acreative studio, or securestorage fora carcollection, there'sroomfor every passion and project. Theproperty is well-serviced with two5000-gallon watertanks, apressurepump, solar power(6kWsystemwith 20 panels and inverter) anda treatmentplant.

Recognised forits extraordinary natural beauty,Hesket offers thebest of country living within easyreach of cosmopolitan amenities –gourmet food and wine, vibrantlocal markets, excellentschools and express V/Line connections to Melbourne. Landholdings of thisscale and provenancerarely come to market here, making this an unmissable chancetosecureyour own sliceofthe Macedon Ranges dream.

Property: Main home plus unit on 37 acres

Address: 130 Hylands Road,Hesket

Price: $1,445,000 -$1,515,000

Agent: RayWhiteKyneton

Contact: Suzie Blake0493 892 370 SarahTurner 0493 474763

•QuietNorth-end location with local traffic only,walking distancetosecondaryschool,Botanical Gardens,Kalimna Sanctuaryand golf club

•Character-filled home with twolarge bedrooms,central bathroom, spacious lounge and North-facing kitchen/meals overlooking the rear yard anddeck

•Heating and cooling throughout,broad timber deck with retractable awning and established gardens with fruit trees and lawn.

•Rear garage convertedtostudioapartmentorhome office with bathroom, kitchenette, internet and reverse cycle heating/cooling,plusstorage shed and carport.

•The vibrantand highly regarded Dig Café is offered for sale as abusiness,withalong lease available

•Well-established forover20years,prominently positioned on the main corner of this thriving village,centrally locatedbetween Maldon and Castlemaine (approx.10 minutes) and Daylesford(approx.20minutes).

•Currently trading Wednesday–Sunday, 8:30am–3:30pm, with clear opportunitytoexpand hours at the discretion of anew operator.

•Fully licensed until 11pm, seating for40indoors,30inthe privategarden courtyardand 22 under the veranda. FOR SALE $47,500

14 Morris Street, MALDON

Belle Property Castlemaineand Maldon.

|5475 1055

85 Odgers Road, BarkersCreek.

3 a 2 b 3 v 5w

•Brick villa on approx.5acres with gardens, paddocks, stables, and panoramic views close to town.

•Light-filled three-bedroomhome with open-plan living, studiospace, and workshop

•Peaceful lifestyle property with equestrian facilities

ForSale

$1,175,000 View

Saturday28thFebruary: 11:30am-12:00pm

RobWaller |0418 571 130

Blasi Mulholland |0417311 733

4b LowtherStreet, Maldon.

4 a 1 b 2635r

•Peaceful 2,635m²blockminutes from historic Maldon village

•Solid four-bedroomhome with twogenerous living areas, wood heaterand light-filled country charm.

•Established gardens, wideverandahs, poweredshedand scope to update

ForSale

$725,000 View

Saturday28th February: 10:45am-11:15am

Blasi Mulholland |0417311 733

RobWaller |0418 571 130

18 Forest Street, Castlemaine.

2 a 1 b 2 v 587r

•Brighttwo-bedroom home just metres from the heart of Castlemaine,aneasywalk to shops, cafésand the train station

•Light-filled lounge,updatedfinishes and stylish renovatedbathroom.

•Generous yard and carport—ideal first home, investmentor downsizer

ForSale

$649,000 View

Saturday28th February: 10:45am-11:15am

RobWaller |0418 571 130

Narelle Waller |0408 571 131

Scan to viewour currentlistings

Belle Property Castlemaineand Maldon.

19 BurnettRoad, Castlemaine.

4 a 3 b 10 v 5075r

•Architect-designedbyWolveridgeArchitects and built by Edifice, this 5,075m²sanctuary offers350m² of refined indoor–outdoor living.

•Four bedrooms, spacious living and premium AEGkitchen.

•Award-winning design with heatedpool, extensivegaraging and workshopspaceinatightlyheld enclave.

ForSale

$2,750,000 View

By appointment

RobWaller |0418 571 130

Narelle Waller |0408 571 131

105Main Road, Campbells Creek.

3 a 2 b 5 v 2290r

•Historic 1873 Holy Trinity BrickChurchbeautifully transformed into aunique country residence of history and modern comfort.

•Grand interiorswithsoaring ceilings, timberfloors, and aseamless blendofcharacter and contemporary style.

•Privategardens with alfrescodeck, 3-car carport, workshop.

ForSale

$1,385,000 View

Saturday28thFebruary: 1:15pm-1:45pm

RobWaller |0418 571 130

Blasi Mulholland |0417311 733

48 CampbellStreet, Castlemaine.

4 a 2 b 1 v 593r

•Hillsvue –A Victoriangem on Campbell Street,just 700m from town, blending heritagecharm with light-filled modern living.

•Elegant interiorswithhighceilings,Baltic floors,pressedmetal, and a country kitchen.

•Lush gardens and flexible spaces in aprime Castlemaine location.

ForSale

$1,200,000 View

Saturday28thFebruary: 2:15pm-2:45pm

Blasi Mulholland |0417311 733

RobWaller |0418 571 130

Scan to viewour currentlistings

Twogreat farmers markets back-to-back

This weekend features twogreat farmersmarkets back-to-back; Lancefield District FarmersMarket on Saturday and the Castlemaine Monthly FarmersMarket on Sundaybothrunning from 9am to 1pm. Seeads on this pagefor locations.

Youwill find an excellentselection of fresh, in season, locally produced fruits, vegetables and mushrooms, regeneratively farmed meats and smallgoods, seafoods (Lancefield), award-winning fresh pasta and gnocchi, honey, internationally acclaimed cheeses, quality dairy,preserves and sauces, regional wines, craftbeer (Lancefield), cider (Castlemaine), spirits, naturalhealthcareitems, livepoultry, plants and seedlings, sourdough breads and treats, stockfeed (Lancefield), probiotic drinks, nutsand more.

Returning to the Lancefield and DistrictFarmersMarket are Langdale Orchards.

Carol and GavinLang said that aftertheir break from markets and whatmother naturehad thrownatthem –hot,dry conditions, and abushfirethatdevasted their town of Harcourt –theywere returning to marketswith newseason apples and pears.

"The season is late because of the weather (hotand dry). The first apples we will have arethe royalgala apples, sweetjuicy crunchy andwilliam pears,"Carol said.

"Those waiting forpink lady apples will have to wait until April, which is when theyare picked.

"Asthe apples and pearsripen we will have more varieties.

"Wetakepride in our product grownonthe orchardthathas been in the family since1858.”

Returning to Castlemaine this month is Cookingwith Koji. Yoko has been celebrating the launchofher book, Pickling and Fermenting,which is nowonits second printrun!

Visiting the Castlemaine FarmersMarket is Brenda Addie with Free Spoken Stories forChildren.

Under the trees at the market, storyteller Brenda JoyAddiewill shareoriginal spoken stories forchildren —told aloud, without screens or images. Beneath branches and birdsong, these gentle stories inviteimagination, listening, and aslowerkind of attention.

Asmall circle of story,held by the trees, in the midst of the marketday.First session from 10.30am.

BYObags, basketsand trolleys.Friendly dogs welcome on a leash.

Raise HerVoice Aconcert to celebrate women

Raise HerVoice is aspecial concert marking International Women’s Day,celebrating women artists from theMacedon Ranges and SpaCountry

PresentedbyVocal Ranges Inc, the concert will takeplaceonSaturdayFebruary 28 from 6.30pm at the MalmsburyTownHall.

This uplifting eveningbringstogether established and emerging female voices in awarm, inclusivecelebration of creativity,strength and community.

Acclaimed performer Lucy Wise will feature, alongside an exciting lineup of emerging artists from the Macedon Ranges.

Theevening will also include guest speaker,Jacinta Carboon, offering reflections in recognition of International Women’s Day

Aspecial highlightofthe nightwill be the Raise HerVoiceChoir,conducted by Polly Christie, showcasing the powerofwomen’s voices raised together

Guests will be welcomed with acomplimentary sparkling wine or soft drink on arrival. Severaleateries areavailable in town fordinner

Tickets: Adults: $25, Concession: $18, 12-18 years: $10 (Under 12 yearsfree)

Bookings: www.trybooking.com/DJAXP

Raise HerVoice invites the communitytocome together andhonour womenthrough music, storytelling and connection.

Yoko of Cooking with Koji returnstoCastlemaine this month. CarolLang andthree generations of Lang family from Langdale Orchards Harcourt return to Lancefield this month.

Theconcert features acclaimed performerLucy Wise.

Photo: Taste of the Orient Castlemaine by Sorrel Wilson Photography

Photo: Adrian Plitzco -Sandor's Harvest

SEStohost open day

Woodend SES is kicking off2026 with anew member recruitmentdrive.

Hoping to boost member numbers, the unit holding an Open Day to answer questions, provide insightand shareexperiences with interested locals.

TheSES is the state’s peak control agency fornatural disasterssuch as floods, storms, earthquakes, tsunamis and landslides. It also provides the largest road crash rescue network in Victoria. It takes thousands of dedicatedvolunteersfromacross the state to provide

emergency assistance24-hoursa day, sevendaysa week, 365 days ayear.

Through the Open Day people can find outmoreabout volunteer positions, hear whatSES does and learn moreabout the rangeofrewarding voluntary roles available.

To volunteer forVICSES applicants first go through aselection and screening process to ensuretheyunderstand the role and can meetthe time commitments required fortraining and performing volunteer duties.

Cultural Diversity

Each volunteer receives accredited, recognised training as part of their role, ranging from firstaid, general rescueand chainsawoperations, through to community education, media training and more. No previous experience or specific skills is required to join.

TheOpen Day will be held on SaturdayFebruary 28 from 10am onwardsat Woodend SES headquarters, 26 Urquhart Street.For moreinformation and to apply, visit: www.ses.vic.gov.au/join-us/ volunteer

It’s thetime –volunteer now

"Ifyou'veeverconsidering volunteering, now is the time."

That wasthe messagefromthe small Clarkefield FireBrigade aweek afterthe hugeblazethat eruptedtothe west of Clarkefield on February 11 and led to theinvolvementofmorethan 100 differentbrigades.

AClarkefield brigade spokesperson said his brigade's priority had been ensuring every available setofeyesremained on the fireground fora week in case anything flared up across the community Clarkefield members, alongside multiple brigades, continue relentless patrols –extinguishing fenceposts, hollowtrees and piles of rubbish.

In total, 16-plus Clarkefield volunteerscontributed morethan 1000 combined hoursacross the sevendays.

"That'stimeawayfromwork, weekend events, family and friends –given selflessly to protect their local community. We'reimmensely proud of them.

"Working alongside Forest Fire Management Victoria, Fire Rescue Victoria, and Victoria Police ensures we continue strengthening community safety moving forward."

On the Fridaydrone support allowedcrews to detect hotspots that were notvisible from ground level.

Thermal imaging identified hidden heat sourcessoevery reachable hotspotcould be extinguished.

Clarkefield sincerely thanked the manyCFA brigades which supported Clarkefield, including Newham CFAwhich made the30-minute trip multiple times across the week.

"Weare incredibly proud of howClarkefield has come together during this time. Ourdonations pageremains activevia our profile,"the spokesman said.

Elaborating on nowbeing the time to volunteer,the brigade emphasised thelevel of response must befuture-proofed.

"People of all backgrounds canmakea difference."

Woodend SES is holding an Open DayonSaturday.

Long before man

Alan Bell, Kyneton

On this page and on TV we arebombarded by opinions on howweare to blame forclimate change

Neverdowehear thatclimate change has been happening long before man walked thisearth.

We have had iceages, hotcycles –all scientists agree –but Ihaveheardvery few people talk about howmuchhumans have affected this warming.

Thosewho have written papersonthis vary from fiveper cent to less than 10 per cent

Let'sall do whatwecan to look afterthis planetthatweliveonbut don't beatourselves upoverwhatisa95per cent natural phenomenon.

Divisive, notinclusive

Bill Bayliss, Chewton

Ilikemanyother membersofour communitytakegreat umbrageand offenceat Ms Healy'sdivisivewords ('Build amore inclusivesociety', Opinions,February10). Whois she to denigrate our forefathers and our greatnation and peoples that built it withtheir blood, sweatand hardwork? Let'snot forget to mention those who gave their lives sowecan enjoy the freedoms we do today.

IfeelthatAnglo Australians and others have contributed hugely to our culture in so manyways. Yes, theywereescaping a Europe devastated by World WarII, these people came from many,manycountries.

ForMsHealy to state our shireofMount

Local knowledge (1 point) 1. Which NewGisborne singer auditioned forAustralian Idol (aired on February 16)?

When is the the Taradale Mineral Springs Festival taking place?

Whoisthe father-son duobehind the ShitboxRally’steam TopGun? 4. What is the MountPlayers’first show forthe

Whoisthe CEOofHepburn Shire Council?

Alexander supports her divisiveviews Ifind beyond thepale. Theseleftist views aredestroying our onceadmired wayofliving, lifestyle and inclusivenature.

Oneonly has to look at ouroncegreat state of Victoriaunder the stewardship of thesocialist left –it'sabasketcase. So woke,it'sfrightening.Ifyou think likeI do speak up, writetothe Express and the Mail and have yoursay

Wake up Castlemaine

'Directly affected neighbour', Castlemaine

MountAlexander ShireCouncil'saffordable housing survey concerning the proposed developmentat65-67 Templeton Street,Castlemaine (former Bendigo TAFE site) deceives residents.

Council conducteda20-daysurvey and its claim of 80 per cent approval –isfalse (alsounscrutinised/in-house survey).

Didyou know asurveywas taking place? During summer,Christmas holidays,and bushfireaftermath?

This statistic is to be thecatalyst fora council vote (March 17, 2026) on approving athree-storey developmentof20prefab flatsinthe middle of aheritageresidential neighbourhood (if funding is approved). No plan details released other than words.

Communityconsultation?Council, unfairly,isasking us to 'buy unseen'. Council claims it doesn't have building plans. Well howcan governmentsupport funding if no plans available/been submitted? It is not possible. Ibelieve council is just choosing

nottolet us viewthe 'qualityprefabdesign (s)'

In 2022 the first secretsurvey includes no details other than emotive'Affordable Housing' and asking only one question. To relinquish land to a25-year lease to publicly unseen development(of prefab flats). Again, asking 'buy unseen'.

Is this thetownwepreserve? Thedirection we wanttotake? 'RejectShop'style architectureinprime heritageand elderly residential area.

During 'community consultation'itwas claimed therewerenoother sites available and officerswouldn't/couldn't answer how manyproperties council owns. Ibeleiveit's 276 properties.

Council is hell benton65/67 Templeton Street and that's that! Maybe 277properties nowsinceweunderstand council has purchased 69 TempletonStreet.

If you arestill reading, write/object to local politicians and your councillor. Make some noise. Funding is to be allocatedin the newfew days.Labor claims'notexcessively spending' contrary to Reserve Bank Governor.Australia is financially broke. Governmentspending causing inflation.

$80,000 on pedestrian crossing in Mostyn Street.How?Consultant'sfees?

$12 million plus $500,000 of ratepayers' moneyonFrederick Street alley(wasteful–whereisthe moneygoing? Currently under construction).

Apetition indicates99per cent of affected residents areagainst the Affordable Housing projectinTempletonStreetdue to thelocation, unknown budget or design details (howmuchisthisgoing to cost taxpayers?) This project must stop.

Save Castlemaine heritage. Choose an-

otherlocation. Supportgenerational residents from commission flats in their backyard. Editor'snote: Council hasmade afunding application. However, council hasassured residents the planning process has notyet begun. They aregathering and incorporating community feedback beforelodging an application.

Waterleft to leak

Awater leak on aRomseystreetwas left unrepaired fortwo weeks.Theleak on Dianella Way, near MelaleucaBoulevard, wasfirst reported to GreaterWestern WateronFebruary 7but wasnot repaired until February 13, resulting in thelossofan estimated20,000 litres of water

Greater Western Water’sgeneral manager of servicedelivery,JodieHallam, said GWWprioritised fixingleaks and faults thathad the highest impactonour customersand with the largest volumesofwater loss.

"For smaller leaks, likethis one, it can takeafew days to fix the leak,"MsHallam said.

GWWadvises thattimelines to repair leaks can be impacted by external factors, like the totalfireban dayonWednesday February 11, wherethe highest impact faults areprioritised forsafetyreasons.

Forhigh priorityfaults and bursts, such as gushing water or no running water in customers’ homes, GWWaims to be on sitewithin 30 minutes. Customerscan report afault or emergencyanytime to Greater Western Water’s 24/7 assistance line on 13 44 99.

Gisborne dinner to aidfire victims

With authorities still counting the cost of losses from January's bushfires, Gisborne and DistrictLions is staging afundraising dinner and nightofentertainmenttoaid victimsofthe Harcourt and Ravenswood blazes.

Thedinner will be held at theGisborne and DistrictBowling Club on Saturday, March14, from 6.30pm to 11.30pm withproceeds going to those who lost homes and business structures in the Harcourt and Ravenswood area. Thetwo-course dinner is $55 per person and offers arangeofmealchoices with drinks at bar prices.

Individual bookings or tables of 10 can be online, via: trybooking. com/DjjCC

Headlining the nightismulti-awardwinning country singer/songwriter Craig Lloyd.Winner of the Country Ballad of the Year 2023 awardfromthe Tamworth Songwriters Association forhis Garth Brookes-style single Take theWheel,Lloyd is one of Australian country music'smostpopular performers.

Thefundraiser followsGisborne Lions' $20,000 donation last month to aid victims of the Harcourt/Ravenswood fires.

Harcourt Lions Club secretary SueNash, herself displacedwith her family because of the fires, described that donation as "wonderful" and "sogenuinely appreciated"

Suesaid such donations went along waytosupporting people such as Harcourt retirees Rayand Loretta Rice,acouple who neverstopped giving to their community,who alwaysput othersfirst, and who lost their house.

"Attheir time of life,toloseeverything is devastating,"she said. "Lions for40years, theyare thebackbone of ourclub, the reason ourclubinHarcourt kept going."

Gisborne Lions' March14 fundraiser dinner will also include aLions monster raffle of goodies and an auction of major donatedproducts.

"Itshould be awonderful nightand an opportunity forpeople around the region to sharesome love,and to provide alittle financial relief forthose affected by these catastrophic fires,"said Gisborne Lions presidentRussell Walker OAM.

TheGisborne and DistrictBowling Club has provided the venue free of charge,while sponsorship has come from various businesses around the region.

Historical societies

Interestedinhistory? Thereare fivehistorical societies in the Macedon Ranges Shire.

All arerepresentedonthe Macedon Ranges HeritageCouncil.

*Gisborne and Mt Macedon DistrictsHistorical Society.

*KynetonHistorical Society.

*Romseyand Lancefield DistrictsHistorical Society Inc.

*‎Malmsbury Historical Society

*Woodend Historical Society

The 2026 Mineral Springs Festival Raffle is on!

1st Prize: $5,000 travel voucher from

2nd Prize: 65 inch Hisense TV from Harvey Norman Bendigo RRP $1,199

3rd Prize: The Stables, Malmsbury $500 Celebration Voucher

4th Prize: RB Sellars $500 Gift Card

5th Prize: Taradale Country Cottage 2 night stay RRP $500 6th Prize: Watts Fresh Kyneton $150 Voucher

7th Prize: Long Paddock Cheese Castlemaine Hamper RRP $120

8th Prize: Sisko Chocolate $100 Voucher All proceeds to Taradale Community Groups

Happy HappyBirthday Birthday Birthday Club

THURSDAY,FEBRUARY26

William Pratt. .turns 10

SATURDAY,FEBRUARY 28

HenryHudson. .turns 5

Evelyn Hudson turns 1

SUNDAY, MARCH1

Annabell Mychajlyszyn turns 8

NAME (PRINT)

Covering the Macedon Ranges and MountAlexander Shires

Circulated throughout: Kyneton,Castlemaine,Gisborne,Malmsbury,Trentham,Woodend,Redesdale, Lancefield, Romsey,Macedon, Mt. Macedon, Metcalfe, Chewton, Harcourt, Newstead, Maldon, Taradale, Elphinstone, Campbells Creek, Guildford, Barkers Creek, Sutton Grange, Baringhup, Muckleford,Yapeen.

ELLIOTT MIDLAND NEWSPAPERS

KYNETON

3MarketSt., PO Box153,Kyneton, 3444

Telephone: (03) 5422 1488

Facsimile: General (03) 5422 3173

CASTLEMAINE

13 HargravesSt., PO Box227, Castlemaine, 3450

Telephone: (03) 5472 1788

Facsimile: (03) 5472 4504

OFFICE HOURS

MondaytoFriday9.00 am-5.00 pm

EDITORIAL HOURS

MondaytoFriday8.30 am-5.00 pm

Email: Kyneton: ahume@midnews.com.au Castlemaine: ldennis@midnews.com.au DISPLAYADVERTISING DEADLINES

TuesdayIssue:Booking andCopy— Noon Thursdayprior.

FridayIssue Cas. Mail: Booking and

Vale Gordon (Tim)Collins

February 2, 1924 –February 10, 2026

Gordon Collins {Tim}was the first babytobeborn at the Kyneton Hospital on February 2, 1924.

TheCollins family wasoriginally from Maldon. Tim's father William, a hairdresser,moved to Kynetonand opened his business in 1917. William married Margerat Garlic and welcomed their three sons, Jack 1918, Harold 1920 andthen Gordon 1924. The shop waslocated next to Castles Hardware on the corner of Mollison and Jennings Street

William eventually bought the newsagency next to Wells Chemist shop at 109 Mollison Street in 1925 and ran both businesses. William wasnow presidentofthe Baptist Church. Following the GreatDepression, 1929 to 1939, the congregation had dwindled to 24, as most churches also fell on hardtimes and someclosedor amalgamated. TheBaptist Churchthen boughtthe Uniting Church with bridging loan moneyput up by Norm Perkins.

In the late 1930s therewas still abitter rivalry between Catholics and Protestants and this wasboughtforwardwhen Mr Verekerwas re-running forpresident at the local hospital and therewas an undercurrenttoremove himbecause he wasCatholic. Tim’sfather squashed this as his beliefwas aman wasjudged on merit and notreligion.

Timwas schooled at KynetonHigh School whereheexcelled in mathematics. He wasbaptisedin1940 and movedto Cowraand then MoamaNSW working in the bank. Turning 18 in 1942, Timwith the wareffortindesperatetimes enlisted in the Navy.Due to having his matriculation, he wasgiven the roll as amedic. Spending much of his time in the southwestern Pacific Ocean around PapuaNew Guinea, Timwas actively mine sweeping, escorting ships and providing troop support. While aboardthe corvette,Tim celebrated his 21st birthday.

In 1946 Timretired from the Navy and then started aBachelor of Commerce degree at Melbourne University.The course wascut short by his father’ssudden death. Timreturned back to Kynetontotakeover the newsagency with his mother'ssupport.

In 1953 Patricia Olsen cametoKyneton, Timand Patricia meet on ablind date and aftera long courtship married in 1960. Being Catholic and Protestant in those times an unlikely union. Tim’s father would have received Patricia with open arms; this did notstoppeople sending hate mail. Patricia wasTim’s backbone throughout their marriage; the families theycame from were deeply religious. On Patricia's side, her brother aJesuit priest and sister aFCJ nun. Tim’sfather wasaProtestantand president in the Baptist Churchalong with his wife and twoother brothers. Both families were upstanding community minded people and deeply rooted in their beliefs.

Patricia and Timhad sevenchildren –one being aset of triplets –under five years, with an averageof50nappies per day. Timwould wash the nappies outside and Patricia would putthem through the washing machine. Thelocal community

would come andhelp. Local mechanic Don Ruxton made himself on call if the machine would ever brokedown.

Tim and Harold opened ajewellery shop next to Arther Hayes' threehold owned by MrsClements who latersold the shop to Hayeswithout notifying Tim. Facedwith closure, MitchArmstrong came to the rescue selling his shop premises to Tim. On the corner of Market Street,Tim operated the jewellery shop thereuntil its closure. Tim then boughtthe freehold at 95 Mollison Street,buyingMax Stanlakeout. Theshopwas renovatedand burnttothe ground in 1987. Support from the local community wasoverwhelming as people would work out howmuch they owed, one lady in her sparetime rebuilt theledgers forTim free of cost. LeoRamsdalecame to Tim'srescue in therebuild with the CBA bank as the CBC bank wantedtoforeclose. Tim and his brotherswereinvolved withRSL, Legacy,the tennis club and Tim also withthe football club. With the returned soldiersand community, the KynetonRSL wasbuilt were it stands today. Jack formulatedthe Legacy movement in Kyneton, Timand Harold supported the movement by supporting the warwidows When Timventured into thetennis club it wasreeling in debthaving several outstandingdebentures. Through support from thelocal communitywith peoplelike AileenRiordon, Armstrong, Collins and DeLacy solicitors, theywereable to remove the owing debt. Timwould also ready the courts forthe competitions held there, onceusing Pythagorean theorem to mark out the courtlines. Eventually the grounds were sold to the KynetonCouncil for$1 dollar to build thebasketballstadium. Tim wasalso presidentofthe Kyneton Football Club forsix years.Hewas able to secure theplayers to help Kynetonwin the grand final in 1995 and 1997, and come runnersupin1996. With the committee's support,badly needed upgrades were carried out at the Showgrounds Tim becamea JP by request and would sometimes be called to thelocal police station. Timrenewed his JP licenceand held it for35yearsuntil he died. Tim ended his final yearsatRMBegg, continuing to support the local community by having avoice to anyconcerns thatmay arise and the odd letter to the local paper's editor

Bosch, Omega, Simpson, Dishlex, and Westinghouse. Simp www.kentappliancerepair.com.au kynetonappliancerepairs@gmail.com

BRUNI -Gilli

Much loved brother-in-law of Michael and Colleen (dec). Cherished uncle of Jalna, Caleb,Shae, Blaire and families.

KRIEWALDT

William George (Billy,Bill Jr)

7.6.1966 -16.2.2026

Much loved partner of Kathleen.

Loving father of Jacob, Ebony and Jessica.

SHEPPARD

Stanley John

will

Gilli, you will be sadly missed, the

14.3.1940 -20.2.2026

Youwereawonderful

husband andfather

We had an amazing 64 years of married life together

Rest peacefully my darling. Youwillremain in our hearts always.

Your loving wife, Jan

Always loved and Remembered

Adoredson of William (Bill) &Dorothea.

Dear friend to so many

Billy’slegacy of kindness and his infectious sense of humourwill live on through all the people he touched, in our memories and the stories we share.

Dad, Billy,wewill never forget you.

Cherished memories forever

KRIEWALDT

William George (Billy,Bill Jr)

7.6.1966-16.2.2026

Cherishedstepfather toGregory,Rebecca, MichaelandKat. Muchloved father-in-lawtoTanika. Adoredbygrandkids Rory,Noah,William, Hendrix,Huey, LaineandBo.

Always in our hearts.

KN288830/L

BRUNI, Gilli

The funeral service to celebrate the life of William George 'Billy' Kriewaldt will be held at the Thomas J. Scott Memorial Chapel, 5Piper St, Kyneton on FRIDAY (Feb. 27, 2026) commencing at 11.00am. Aburialatthe Kyneton Lawn Cemetery will follow

Deaths/Funerals

Stanley John

14.3.1940 –2 0.2.2026

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Stan Sheppard, ad ev oted husband, father, Pop of 10, Great-pop of 4 and friend to many

Stan was the beloved husband of Janice, with whom he shared alifetime of love, laughter, and unwavering partnership.

He was ap roud and caring father to Rodney,Kaylene, and Karina, who were the centre of his world and his greatest joy

Stan will be remembered for his kindness, strength of character, and the quiet and subtleway he was always there when someone needed him

He leaves behind al eg acy of love, family,a nd treasured me mo ries that will be held close by all who knew him.

He will be deeply missed and will live forever in the hearts of hi s loving wife Jan, hischildren Rod, Kay,a nd Karina, extended family,a nd many dear friends.

The funeral for Stan wil lb eh el d on Tuesday 3rd March 2026 at 1.30pm at the Community Centre, Elizabeth St, Campbell’sCreek followed by ac ommittal at the Castlemaine Cemetery

Maythewindsofloveblowsoftly Andwhisperforyoutohear Thatweshallalwaysloveyou Andforeverholdyounear

The

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• ncewithMechanicalandStructural parts.

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• Apply with brief resume to: tylden@tyldenequipment.com.au

Phone54223122

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0422 564 878.

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PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENT REGULATIONS 2015 –Schedule 1- Form 2 Section 52(1) (Planning &Environment Act 1987)

Thelandaffectedbythe applicationislocatedat: CampReserve11ForestStreetCASTLEMAINEVICTORIA3450

Theapplicationisfora permitto:

Buildings and works associated with aMinor Sports and Recreation Facility. Alterations of access to aTransport Zone 2. Demolition and provisionofcarparking.

Planning schemeclause Matterforwhichapermitisrequired

Clause43.01-1 Demolitionofexistingsportspavilionandfencing.

Clause43.01-1 Construction and carrying out of works associated with existing Minor Sports and Recreation Facility, two new netball courts, fencing, and the removal, destruction and loppingofvegetation.

Apermitisrequiredunder thefollowingclausesofthe planningscheme:

Clause44.03-2 Construct abuilding or to construct or carry out works associatedwiththeMinorSportsandRecreationFacility.

Clause44.04-2 Construct abuilding or to construct or carry out works associatedwiththeMinorSportsandRecreationFacility.

Clause52.06-3 Provide some or all of thecar parking space required underClause52.06-5.

Clause52.17-1 Remove,destroyorlopnativevegetation.

Clause52.29-1 AlterationofaccesstoaTransportZone2. Theapplicantis TaylorsDevelopmentStrategists Theapplicationnumber PA077/2025

VIEWTHEAPPLICATION:

InPerson:Youmaylookattheapplicationandanydocumentsthatsupporttheapplicationfreeofchargeat: CivicServicesBuilding–Castlemaine CornerLyttletonStreet&LloydStreet 8.30amto5pm-MondaytoFriday

Phone: PlanningEnquiries(03)54711700

Online: ScantheQRCodeorvisit https://masc.t1cloud.com/T1Default/CiAnywhere/Web/MASC/Public/LogOn/ONLINESERVICES LODGEANOBJECTION: Anypersonwhomaybeaffectedbythegrantingofthepermitmay objectormakeothersubmissionstoCouncil. Anobjectionorsubmissioncanbelodgedviatheonlineservicesportalorcanbesentinwritingviaemailor post:

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Email: info@mountalexander.vic.gov.au

Post: PlanningDepartment–POBOX185,CastlemaineVIC3450

AnobjectionmustbemadetoCouncilinwriting,includethereasonsfortheobjectionandstatehowtheobjector wouldbeaffected.Ifyouobject,theresponsibleauthoritywilltellyouitsdecision. Theresponsibleauthoritymustmakeacopyofeveryobjectionavailableforanypersontoinspectfreeofcharge untiltheendoftheperiodduringwhichanapplicationmaybemadeforreviewofadecisionontheapplication. TheResponsibleAuthoritywillnotdecideonthe applicationbefore: 10-Mar-2026

Club secures all abilities funding

From blind cricketand adaptive climbing to accessible surfing and walking hockey,regional Victorians with disabilities areenjoying greateraccess to the sports they love

Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas last week announced thatHanging Rock Cricket Club would receivea grantthat would strengthen and expand opportunities forpeople with disabilities on and offthe field.

TheRegional AllAbilitiesParticipation Grantsprovidesfunding of up to $25,000 to boost access, inclusion and participation.

It’s about helping morepeople with adisability benefit from the physical, social and mental health advantages of sport and activerecreation.

Hanging Rock Cricket Club will use their grantof$7425 towardspurchasing protectivegear and aportable ramp

Ms Thomas said she wasdelighted to support moreprograms thatopen up more all-abilities opportunities for Victorians –asinstructors, coaches, volunteersoradministrators.

“This initiativecreates inclusive spaces wherepeople with disabilitycan notonlyparticipate –but kick start new opportunities to learn and excelina rangeofrolesinthe sportstheylove,” shesaid.

These grants arepart of Labor’s$40 million AllAbilitiesSport Fund, removing barriersfor people withdisabilities to getinvolvedinsport and recreation in regional Victoria.

Runnersfromacross Australia descended on Castlemaine's Camp Reservefor the 2026 Castlemaine Gift,which is apopular fixture in the Victorian Athletics League calendar Theday wasmuchcooler than previous yearswith overcastskies and intermittent showers,but this did notdampenthe spirits or the enthusiasm of the athletics. More than 374registered entrants battled it out across arangeofdistances fora swag of prize

moneyand gifts generously supported by local businesses.

Theday kicked offat10am with the youngest runnershitting the grass in the junior Gift events before the official program kicked offat10.45am.

The120 metreWomen's Gift sponsored by Leech Earthmoving, GunangaraEstate,Woolworths and MareeEdwards MP wasonce again ahighlightwithlast year'swinner Ruby

Crisp nabbing her consecutivewin against team mate Katie Mooreinaphoto finish. In the men's event120m Men's Gift sponsored by Novo Resourcesand Woolworths Brendan Matthews wasa clear winner claiming honoursfromnearest rival Barnabas Ronto.

Formoresee this Friday's Castlemaine Mail or visit visit val.org.au/programfor the full results.

Ruby Crisp claimed back to back wins in the 2026 Women’s 120m Gift in a photo finish at Camp Reserve!

Photo: Jamesons Photography

Winnersat Seymour

Bill West

TwoKyneton-trained galloperswere successfulat Seymourraces on Friday.

Lightly racedSevvieBlanc scored his thirdwin forowner-trainer-breeder Edmund Bourke,and Vim Vitae brokethrough forthe strong Liam Howley stable.

Seymour hosted the first in aseries of four special Racingfor OurRegions meetings, with RacingVictoriaannouncing afterwards over$200,000 had been raised to support Victoria's bushfirerecoveryefforts, to be distributedtofirst responders and supporting charities.

Alexandra,Towong and Kynetonare the othervenues with special race meetings coming up

LIKING FORTRACK

Edmund Bourke has nowsaddled up 11 winnersfromjust over200 starterssince he gained his trainer'slicencein2015, at the ageof63.

Thetrainer and wifeMarywerethrilled when Sevvie Blanc, a$4.60 chance, won at thesame track wherehehad scoredhis second win in July last year

Bourke'sfirst winner wasSixteen Princess at KynetoninApril, 2016.

On Friday, topjockey JyeMcNeil positionedSevvieBlanc perfectly in the $35,000 1600m BM66 eventtowin by three-quartersofa length from favourite Phoebe Buffet

He has nowearned $58,800 from 10 starts.

Having his first run sinceOctober 23, Vim Vitae had seemingly benefited by outingsintrials at Caulfield and Echuca.

Celine Gaudray rode the winner,who started at double figureodds in the 1300m Cattanach JewellersMaiden.

Thefirst-upwin as agelding wasimpressive, and connections arelooking for furtherimprovement from thewell bred three-year-old.

Town &District

GOLF results

CASTLEMAINE

An outstanding 42 pointsbyC-grader Owen Scott highlightedSaturday'sstableford

Afield of 51 turned out, withscoring tightinthe three grades.

Damien Cassidy wasrunner-uptoScottwith 38 points.

ConsistentPeterMcCoombe led the wayinA-grade with 37, from Gavin Lang 35.

Stephen Cooper topped B-grade with36, from Jayson Glenister on 35 aftera countback.

NTPswenttoScottand NicolasAndretta.

Therewere11 contendersinthe 9B49outing in ideal conditions, with BronwynGudgeon (11) leading the way with afine 20 points.

Trish Sharrock (12) and Mary Harris (16) filled the minor placings on 19 points.

Thursdaystableford:PeterMcCoombeproduced the round of the daytoclaim overall and A-grade honours with 39 pointsinafield of 38.

He kept the pressureon, and IanGilmourwas runnerup on 37, withKlai Jermyn thirdoverall on 36.

Trevor Bray's 35 points topped B-grade, one clear of Patricia Sharrock.

Cooper and Mark Frankling were NTPs GISBORNE

Thecream rose to thetop on Sunday, with Gisborne winning the Northwest Regional PennantFinal against Bacchus Marsh.

Under the leadership of Matt Dean, the team finished on topintheir division andthen proceeded to win the divisional and then regional finals.

Well done to all involved, from theplayers who contributed throughout the season, to thecaddies, course marshals and people who puttheir hand up to assist.

Postman PeterShaw, yes, he was, and Andrew Smeaton wonthe 4BBBonSaturday.On Thursdaythe Doc, Ken Baddeley, took his medicine and wonthe A-grade open stableford with 39 points.

PeterSinclair took out B-grade with 40 points and John Samuel topped C-grade with39.

SueCautleywon the women's A-grade with37points on Wednesday, andB-grader Ruth Wilkinson had 41 points, thebest scoreofthe day.

KYNETON

Octogenarian Barry Murphy turned back the clockto beathis ageand romp to athree-shotinB-grade of the Eurocentric Wines stableford on Saturday. Murphy, 81, had the best scoreofall themen in the field —42points offa 14 handicap.

He shot38onthe frontnine and 40 on the back to beathis agebythree. Abirdie on the sponsor'sholewas the highlight.

Adam Pyett(13) birdied the last to win acountbackfor second from PeterWalsh (16).

Terry Gamble (7) parred the first 11 holes aftera master class in recovery shots, but stumbled late to win A-grade with 38 points. Peter

Robbins (8) and Neville Yates(8) were next best on 36. Bert Cottingham (23) birdied the last to finish with 37 points and take C-grade by one from Ed Hoctor (28) who scored on every hole.

Vicki Nettleton (23) wasnine shots clear of the women's field withseven parsinher 44-pointhaul.

NTPswenttoDavid Pilcher,Louis Thompson, Ross Foreman, Kash Karunasena and Denise Murphy (also super pin).

Yatesshottwo overfor thefront nine offthe white tees to take Thursday'sscramble with 19 points, one clear of Mick McQualter

Simon Rosenberg(9) began Wednesday'sstableford with adouble bogey, but dropped just twomoreshots to cardhis best round —a74— for41points. PeterRyan (22) had 40.

Best of the women wasMerilyn Hoysted (38) with35 points, aremarkable achievementgiven she forgot to take her newclubs to thecourse.

Thecaptain rustled up aloaner setand duly scored on every hole to beatMichelle Werner (21) on acountback.

NTPswereWerner (2), Pilcher,Gordon Stevens, Ryan, ColO'Sullivan and Julie McKellar

In Tuesday'spar-3 eventwomen's captain Jane Stanley (21) wasjust one over par in the middle of her round as she carded anett46for aone-shotvictory in B-grade overTrentham's TanyaBoothby(32).

Werner (15) had a53for acountbackvictory over Lorraine Ryan (13) in A-grade, and Namik Akkurt (5) wasbest of the men withanett54.

LANCEFIELD

Another excellentweek of golf with manycountbacks. Aspecial thank-you to everyone who boughttickets to the 'Charlie Bezzina Brings Murder to Lancefield' this Saturday. It's sold out!

Saturdaystableford:DaveBentley(30) 39 points on a c/b from Greg Parks (11) and Jason Byron(11).

TuesdayLegends: Denis Davenport (7) 40 points, from Wayne Mee(22) 38 and John Leefe(12) 36.

Second round winnersinthe DorothyHayesmatchplay on WednesdaywereKaylene Cruise, Marlane Pattinson, SandraStevens and Samantha Strano.

Wendy Nicholas 102-31-71 wasthe strokewinner from Janine Notman 124-48-76 on c/b from Annie Balla (48). Twilightpoints: Dave Bentley20, from Connor Irving 19.

ThursdayFix: Di Brennan (28) 37 points, on c/b from DanBudde (11), with James Whitford(10) 36 third.

MOUNT MACEDON

Saturday's4BBB stableford celebrated the G.R.E.A.T. Gisborne Gazette Golf Gala

Hamish Allen and Brian Freestone returned 49 points to winthe day, with the highlightbeing Allen's frontnine contribution of 24.

GeoffPickles and BryceSingh were close runners-up with 48, and NTPswenttoAllen,Freestone, Hayden Phillips and RichardPayne.

Carl Obst booked his placeinthe matchplayfinal with a semi-final win over Nick Vicary

Acool start forthe midweek stableford waswelcomed, with the A-grade result Taylor-made.

Kevin Taylor (17) had 41 points to eclipse RobTaylor (18) on 37.

JimAlsop (30) took overall and B-grade honourswith 42 points, clear of Gary Liddy (24) with 36. Liddyand Oils Flannery were theNTPs.

ROMSEY

There'sa newcourse record holder at Romsey! Dean Kohler (handicap 6) had atremendous42points in Saturday'sstableford with a72 offthe stick.

This becomes the newcourse record sincesome redevelopmentwork took placeinthe middle of last year Congratulations Dean!

Club presidentTobyClement(13) wasrunner-upwith 37 points, pipping CraigSandy (21) and BenNoel (8) on a countback.

NTPswenttoRob McLennan (2) and ColinThomas, and Simon Donovanhad the longest drive.

Last Wednesday'sstableford sawKathJekabsons (40) continue some fine form to win with 40 points.

John Freestone (28) wasrunner-upon37, on acountback from Robert McDonald Jnr(17).

Fridaytwilight: StephenWilkins (8) had 19 points over nine holes to beatMal Mottram(4) on 17.

TRENTHAM

Aripping dayfor golf on Saturday,with lowmarker Dale Heightreturning the best scoreinthe men's par event.

A-grade —D.Height(5) +6, from Craig Cotton(9) +2; B— Cameron McDonald(10) +2, from Jason King (10) +1; C— Ross Bartlett (22) +4, from LarryProwse(19) +3. Theladies produced some hotgolfinthe SKOSizzler event.

AndreaKrellefired 85-16-69, including an eagle, to edge out Anthea Leary93-24-69 on acountback.

Fridayevening'schicken run went to AlexEveredwith 23 points.

Aremindertoall golfersthatTrentham's Autumn Tournamentiscoming up on theweekend of March14 and15. Entries being accepted now.

WOODEND

Therewereseveral standout performances in Saturday'sstableford,which attracted afield of 70.

Thebest roundofthe daycame from Susie Baldwin (49) who compiled 42 points to topC-grade from Wesley Harris (25) on 37.

Joshua Cleary (15) had 41 in B-grade, finishingtwo points clear of Alexander Brown(17).

In thetop grade Mark Hutchison had 38 points, one better than PoppaLong.

Exterior painting and roof cleaning has given the clubhouse arevitalised appearance.

Improvementstothe car park arestillbeing pursued with the shirecouncil.

Trainer Edmund Bourkeisinterviewedbymedia after his horseSavvie Blanc wonatSeymour

Photo:BrettHolburt/Racing Photos

Bigoccasionbowl: With the matchinthe balanceonSaturday,vastly experienced

Business end of the season

Thepreliminaries areover, andthe business end of the Highlands Saturdaypennantbowls 2025-2026 season has arrived. Round 18 on Saturdayproduced high drama, with regular division one finalist KynetonGolf being forced to pull out all stops to stay in the topfour

On the Golf green, the homeside battled its waytovictory in ideal conditions by an agonising twoshots (58-56) against thirdplaced Kilmore.

Atense afternoon sawthe matchstay aliveuntil the last end, with Golf's overall victory largely due to the12-shotmargin by Wayne Turner'sfour Kilmorewas equally pleased, as it only had to scoreone pointtostayinthe four and keep fifth-placed Gisborne at bay. Kilmoreended up with twowinning rinks.

Ironically,the firstsemi-final at Trentham this Saturdaysees the same twoevenlymatched combatants meet again, with the loser to be left lamenting about whatmight have been.

Gisborne gave itself every chance to climb into the finals, gaining the full 16 points against DiggersRest.

TheGisborne club has strong premiership prospects in divisions 2and 3and mid-week as well.

Kyneton, with asomewhatshuffled lineup, travelled to Broadfordand won 81-38.

With only one loss (toGisborne)inthe 18 home and away rounds, Kynetonmust

be ahot favouritetomakeitthree flags in a row. Alarge spectatorbaseisexpected to be theretocheer Kynetononinthe semi-final.

TheKynetonselectorscertainly have plenty of options at their disposal, and superstar skipperGregPodesta will be keen to producehis best to lift theTigers.

Romseydeservedly finished in second place, and will be wrestling with the scenario of being able to beatKynetonatsome stage, based on the lawofaveragesatleast Against apersistentWoodend, Romsey wonoverall by 17 shots.

Could theRedbacks cause an upset on Saturdayand leap straightintothe grand final? Unlikely,but notimpossible.

Trentham wonthe battle to escape finishing on the bottom of the ladder, defeating Lancefield by 13 shots with two rinks up.

Good lucktoall teams in the finals.

ALL THESCORES

Scores from round 18 Highlands pennant matches on Saturday were:

Division 1: KynetonGolf 58 dKilmore 56 —A.Plowman 17 lost to D. Noonan 24, A. Barker 16 lost to L. Whitnall 19, W. Turner 25 dD.Carroll 13; Gisborne 78 d DiggersRest 41 —T.Rogers19d R. Davies 18, A. Higgins 30 dR.Treweek 11, T. Gade 29 dP.Robinson 12; Broadford38 lost to Kyneton81—L.Gleeson 16 lost to B. Halpin 29, D. Kelly14lost to G. Podesta 23, D. Ellis8lost to T. Kelly29; Trentham 60 dLancefield 47 —R.Justice17losttoJ Holmes 23, R. Dobinson 20 dT.Young 9, P. Hanson 23 dA.Brandolin 15; Romsey 62 d

Woodend 45 —D.Ely 25 dN.Bickerdyke 10, C. Austin 20 dS.Pickles 15, A. Young 17 lost to G. Symons 20.

Division 2: Kilmore 43 lost to Kyneton 81 —A.Cassidy 16 dM.Smoljo 15, M. Hodgson 10 lost to D. Knight37, C. Hodgson 17 lost to M. Bermingham 29; Macedon 82 dGisborne 35 —I.Matthews 36 d K. Jarred 8, G. Dickinson 18 dB.Wylie 13, I. Guymer 28 dJ.Evans 14; KynetonGolf 90 dBroadford45 —B.McKimmie 27 d A. Cowen 18,D.Bond 31 dA.Fisher 12, J. McQualter 32 dK.Inness 15; DiggersRest forfeited to Romsey

Division 3: Mt Cottrell 88 dRomsey33 —J.Langley30d D. Culpan 7, S. Taylor 30 dJ.Fryer 10, L. Glascott28d M. Gilligan 16; Lancefield 54 lost to Woodend 72 N. Shannon 16 lost to J. Jewell 25, Alan Shipcott16lost to A. Jewell 20, P. Shannon 22 lost to P. Nathan 27;Kyneton59 d Gisborne 58 —D.Fisher 15 lost to I. Ball 21, L. Dengelo 17 lost to S. Lawless 24, S. Fenton 27 dC.Butterley13; Kilmore58 lost to Trentham 60 —C.Wright22dB.Brown 17, S. Bloomfield 24 dM.Kemp 18, L. Bloomfield 12 lost to I. Bruton 25.

FINAL LADDERS

Thefinal positions of teams in Highlands Saturdaydivision one pennantbowls are:

Kyneton255 pts

Romsey192

KynetonGolf 168

Kilmore167

Gisborne 163

DiggersRest 121 Broadford111

Trentham 97 Woodend 92 Lancefield 74.

Div. 2: Gisborne 157, Kyneton 154, KynetonGolf 138, Macedon 134, Romsey 131, Kilmore78, Broadford 52, Diggers Rest 48.

Div. 3: Romsey 191, Gisborne 182, Mt Cottrell 178, Kyneton149, Macedon 139, Woodend 111, Kilmore73, Lancefield 67. VENUES FORSEMI-FINALS

Trentham, Woodend and Kilmorewill host Highlands bowls semi-finals this Saturday, February 28.

Venues and matchesare:

Division 1: Kyneton vRomsey(second semi) and KynetonGolfv Kilmore(first semi) at Trentham —1pm start.

Division 2: Gisborne vKyneton(second semi) and KynetonGolfv Macedon (first semi) at Woodend —1pm start.

Division 3: Mt Cottrell vKyneton(second semi) and Romseyv Gisborne (first semi) at Kilmore— 1pm start. MIDWEEK SEMI-FINALS

Today(Tuesday) theHighlands midweek semi-finals take placeatKyneton, Diggers Rest and Trentham

Division 1: Gisborne vKyneton(second semi) and KilmorevRomsey(first semi) at Kyneton— 10.30am start.

Division 2: Gisborne vBroadford(second semi) and Woodend vKyneton(firstsemi) at DiggersRest—10.30am start.

Division 3: Kyneton Golf vMtCottrell (secondsemi) and Gisborne vLancefield (first semi) at Trentham.

Midweek bowlssemi-finals on today

Highlands midweek pennantbowls semi-finals take place today(Tuesday) across all three divisions.

Powerhouse sides Kynetonand Gisborne clash in the division 1second semi-final on the KynetonGolf green. Thetop division first semi-final between Kilmoreand Romseyisatthe same venue.

In division 2, semi-finals areatDiggers Rest, withWoodend vKynetonand Gisborne vBroadford the participants. Division 3sides playatTrentham, with the second semi between Mt Cottrell (1) and KynetonGolf,and the first semi-final between Gisborne (3) and Lancefield.

FINALROUND RESULTS

Resultsfromthe final home and away round last week were: Div. 1: KynetonGolf 44 lost to Kyneton70— P. Tobin (s) 24 dAnt.Mathison 14, G. Williamson 9lost to C. Dawson

33, D. Sheppard11 lost to D. Kennedy 23; Gisborne 74 d Kilmore33—M.Kaufman 19 dW.Hanna 13, R. Walker 29 dM.Johnson 9, T. Rogers 26 dK.Campbell 11; Romsey 71 dDiggers Rest 40 —L.Kean 19 dS.Crimmins 16, G. Taylor 27 dW.Debble 10, S. Mayger 25 dT.Harmer 14. Ladder: Kyneton201 pts, Gisborne 191, Kilmore112, Romsey101, KynetonGolf 63, DiggersRest 52. Div. 2: Trentham 69 dRomsey51—R.Dobinson 17 lost to H. Rose 21, B. Brown31dD.Culpan 13, R. Justice21d M. Gilligan 17; Kilmore 61 lost to Kyneton64—C.Wright 22 dN.Jamieson 20, S. Bloomfield 19 lost to M. Bermingham 20, J. Grindlay20lost to M. Plowman 24; Macedon 58 lost to Gisborne 62 —L.Ritchie 19 lost to J. Evans 28, P. Ritchie 21 dS.Lawless19, S. Graham 18 dI.Ball 15; Broadford43 lost to Woodend 84 —B.Goddard19 lost

to M. Dornau 29, A. Cowen8 lost to N. Bickerdyke27, R. Campbell 16 lost to G. Symons28.

Ladder: Woodend 177, Kyneton161, Gisborne 152, Broadford105, Macedon 95, Trentham 86, Kilmore67, Romsey53.

Div. 3: Kyneton48 d Gisborne (4) 27 —E.Kennedy 26 d F. Roche 15, J. Epps 22 dT.Hunter12; KynetonGolf 34 lost to Woodend 46 —B.McKimmie 21 dA.Jewell 19, J. Turner 13 lost to J. Jewell 27; Gisborne (3) 94 dMtCottrell (2) 15 —C.Butterley50d R. Perry 9, T. Shearson 44 dP.Wlodarczyk 6; Lancefield 50 dMtCottrell (1) 25 —J.Holmes 38 dJ Langley5,T.Young 12 lost to L. Glascott20.

Ladder: Mt Cottrell (1) 134, Kyneton Golf 133, Gisborne 128, Lancefield 125, Kyneton123, Woodend 53, Gisborne (4) 49, Mt Cottrell (2) 39.

Bill West

KynetonGolf skipper Adrian Plowman sent down acrucialfinalbowltogain second shot,earning applause from teammatesand preventing Kilmoreextending avery narrow lead. Golf wonoverall by twoshots.

Bootson, no experienceneeded

Being part of ateam is something truly special. Feelings of first game nerves, the reliefofkicking agoal, the elation of claiming awin areuniquely shared among your teammates, who become your communityand your family.The villageofpeople thatmake up your sporting team become friends for life, irrespectiveofthe final score. If you’ve ever thoughtabout pulling on theboots but worried youmightnot be good enough, fit enough or experiencedenough –Kyneton Football NetballClub wantsyou anyway Playersofevery height, skill leveland background arebeing encouraged to walk through the gatesand giveita go.Equipmentisready.Coaches areready.Are you? Women's coachLisa Borg knowsexactly howmuchthatinvitation matters. Shefirst started playing as aseven-year-old at atime when afemale team didn't exist, so she

playedwith the boys

"Myuncle wascoaching withthe KynetonTigersatthe time. He'll kill me forsaying this, but he wouldn't letmeplayinthatfirst year.I wanted to playbecause girls couldn't playfooty.But nowadays he'llalwaysdenies that,"she said.

"I wassix or sevenyears old. Butanyway, Igot playing and Iwas probably better than alot of the boys,sohewas quiteproud of that."She came through thejunior ranks at a time when girls playing football wasrareand oftendifficult. Andbythe time she reached the under-16 levelshe wasthe only girl in the competition, playing alongside boys who oftenhad to defend her rightjust to be on the field. Eventually therewas nowhereleft forher to play, so she stepped away –until women’s football finally offereda pathway. Shelater spentyears at Sunbury Lions

before returning in 2015 to build awomen’s side from scratch. It wasnot easy. Some early matches had barely ateam, sometimes 10 or 11 players,and forfeits were unavoidable. Butpersistencepaid off.

Todaythe goal istocontinueproviding a women’s football pathwaywithin the community,tokeep the doorswide open fornot only aspiring football stars, but thosewho just want to giveita go

Head of junior football Emily Dellios is proofofthatculture. Deeply involved in the club through her children and committee work, she recently signed up to playdespite openly admittingshe isstill learning the basics.

“You don’t have to be agood footballer,” she said.

“It’sasupportiveenvironmentand we’re all going to learn something.”

AllpinkatGisborneCC

Gisborne Cricket Club proudly hosted its annual Pink Stumps Ladies DayonSaturdayFebruary 14, with 109 local women in attendance.

Theevent raised close to $7000, with all proceeds supporting the McGrathFoundation and the continued growth of women’scricketwithin the club, making it an extraspecial Valentine’s Day.

Guests were inspired by three incredible women who generously shared their stories. Samantha Sun spokecourageously about her journeyasa breast cancer survivor.Sarah Phegan from Intimo shared her insights and experiences, and Kerryn Peterson captivated the room with her journeyfromrepresenting Australia in basketball to navigating the highs and lows of AFLWfootball.

With an abundanceofraffle prizes donatedbyvalued sponsors, plenty of fun games and liveentertain-

ment, the celebrations continued well into the evening.

"The committeewould liketoextend special thanks to KellyduKamp, Nicole Telfer and Anna Hall fortheir outstanding work in organising the day, andtoEmma Barker forbeautifully styling the room with her decorations,"club presidentGregHall said.

"A very special thank youalsotomajor sponsor Quest Echucafor providing newpink playing attire for our U15, U18 and senior women’steams, along with the Second XI men’s team

"Itwas fantastic to see so many membersofthe club really getting behind the dayand showing their support,helping create such apositiveand united atmosphere.

"Thank youtoeveryone who attended, donatedand contributed to making the daysuchameaningful and memorable eventfor our club and community."

That atmosphereisexactly whatfootball manager GlennHarris believesiskey to on and off-field success. Working together to strivefor improvementeachweek, building each other up, is whatitisall about. Respect, teamwork, discipline, excellence and funare thevaluesthatdrivethe KFNC and have been entrenched within the club culturesince1868.

“The vibe has been great,”Harris said. “Other clubs have supported us andwe want anyone thinking about it to come down and join.”The club is notchasing elite athletes. It is chasing community– parents, beginners, returningplayers and anyone who ever wondered whatitmightfeel like to finally take akick. Short, tall,skilled or completely new, themessageissimple: KynetonFootball NetballClub is the placefor you.

Meldrumlockedin

Bill West

Alistair Meldrum(pictured) brings awealth of lifeand football experience to hiscoaching.

Macedon Football Netball Club madea very positivemove late last week by appointing Meldrumas senior men's football head coach forthe 2027 and 2028 seasons.

Hiscurrentthree-year coaching term with the Cats ends this season.

Macedon reached the RDFNL preliminary final in 2024 and the grand final last season under his astuteguidance.

Theclub'sfootball co-ordinator, BevanUren, said Al Meldrumwas very well respected across the leagueand in other football circles.

"Hebringsstrong leadership, football knowledgeand apassion for developing young players andbuilding aunitedclubculture,"Uren said.

"His vision forsustained success and commitmenttohigh standards both on and offthe field makehim an outstanding fit at Macedon."

Meldrum, aBowenMedal winner,has been "sounded out"by other clubs overthe years. He resumed at Macedon in 2020 withno footy, andlimited games in 2021.

Sincehehas been at the helm he has overseen the return of the Under 19.5 team, pulled on theboots manytimes in the Reserves side to help it find itsfeetand playfinals football, and developed a sound team of coaches to work together

Uren said stability within aplaying group across all grades, the leadersand football coaches, play amassivepart in anysporting organisation.

"This is the first step to ensurethatstable environmentbeyond 2026 continues."

Macedon has had very good numbersonthe training track preseason.

Gisborne Cricket Club’s senior women alldecked out in pink

Preseason training is in full swing forKynetonFootball NetballClub.

Photo: SophieMcLeod

CDCA comp heats up as finalsloom

Castlemaine District Cricket Association AGrade sides completedday twoofround 10 competition last Saturday with all matches stretching to asecond innings as sides chased an outrightwin.

AReservecontested one-daymatches in round 15, BGrade playedround 14, and CGrade (Under 16) sides wrapped up daytwo of round eight.

This Fridayevening the Women's sides will contestthe final round of the home and away season with round eight matches.

Highlights of the round were HeathcoteB Grade batsman AshleyLovick's122 notout against Taradale, while Newstead AGrade bowler RileyPedrettiwas the pick of the bowlerslast weekend taking 5-39.

Resultswere: AGrade DayTwo

Guildford10-120 and 10-142 (2nd Innings Hadley Bassett 36 Jonathon Pollock 25; David George 4-44, James Chaffey 4-44) vCastlemaine United 7-d/265 (David George 69, Harper Kneebone 49 notout,Declan Brasher 49).

BarkersCreek 10-425 and 8-134 (2nd Innings Andrew Mead-Harding 43, Brayden Yanner 31, BaileyHenderson 23; ZacHinck 3-26, Karsen Beer 3-39) vNorthCastlemaine 9-136 (Brenton Jones 44, DanChaplin 25, John Howorth 24; Chris McKnight4-34,Brayden Yanner 2-0, DarbySemmens 2-16).

Maiden Gully Marist 10-69 and 10-160 (2nd Innings Astin Clayton 28, JimmyLiersch 23, Dean Trew 21; John Watson 4-42, Declan Slingo3-51) vMuckleford3-d/198 and 3-35 -(2nd Innings BrettCole 14 notout; John Watson 11 notout;Nathan Cavalier 2-13).

Harcourt 10-122 and 9-107 (2nd Innings Declan Wastie 34, Jack Archer 26; RileyPedretti 5-39, Chris Elderfield 3-30) vNewstead 10-205 and 0-30 (2nd Innings IanGarsed 28 notout).

AReserve OneDay Newstead 6-201 (Gerald Chapman 53 notout,Lachlan Park 43 notout, Charlie Chapman 33, Faolan Gardner 27; William Trew 2-24) defeated Maiden Gully Marist 9-188 (MarcBrownlee 42 notout,Michael Rogers 25, Austin Coghill 19, Brodie Hogan26; Gerald Chapman 2-44).

Harcourt 10-153 (Lachlan Mika 56, Tasman Scoles 33, Adrian Cole 23;Noah Lowry 4-11, Daniel Maerz2-13, Noah Maltby2-27) lost to Taradale 2-154 (Jordan Ryan 68 not out, SteveLearmonth 64 notout; Mark Hickman 2-22).

Muckleford 6-239 (Samuel McGee98, Marty Sharples 63, Jackson Davis26not out; Cale Polson 3-31)lost to Heathcote8-242 (Brett Polson 62,Daniel Butler 60,Angus McIntosh 30, Nick Malavisi 23 notout,Tim Gleeson21; Neville Cooper 3-41, Callan Hough 2-14, Craig Tingay 2-43).

Castlemaine United 9-152 (Fill-in 55, Jonathan Maher 38; William Ridgeway3-41, Levi Bruce2-35) lost to North Castlemaine 10-176 (Gavin Lang 34, MatthewStahl 31, Nathan Anderson 14; PrivatePlayer4-45, Beau Ely2-35)

Gisborne on ascoring spree

Gisborne went on ascoring spree in Kookaburrawomen's A-grade cricket on Sunday.

Batting first against Lancefield Black, Gisborne scored 3/172 c.c. from 20overs (RubyWatts 50 ret., Emily McDonald 50 ret., Brianna Woodburn 45, Mary Geisler 16).

Using 10 bowlers, Gisborne restricted their opposition to 6/90 (HayleyFisher 18 n.o.). Macedon neverrecovered afteropener KymRileywas run out firstball. Kia Montgomery took 4-11 forWallan as the Cats reached 8/69. Wallan racedto victory,scoring 3/73 (Megan Farrell 38) in 8.1 overs.

In B-grade, East Sunbury scored 6/118 (M. Roberts 32, R. Kirk 24) and Lancefield Yellowreplied with 2/119 (Emily Consiglio 50 ret., Megan Richardt 22 n.o.). Broadford3/93 (Brooke Jeffrey 44 n.o.) lost to Melton Centrals 1/94.

Oneround remains before the finals.

BGrade OneDay

Campbells Creek Colts8-257(ClintMcLeod 63, John Prendergast 52 notout,James Collie 34, Brad Sturgess 16, Mark MacDougall 15; Brodie Martin 2-47, Oliver Daldy 2-50) defeated BarkersCreek 10-141 (Ethan Maltby39, Andrew Stephens 32, Callam De Bono 15, Ricky Carson 13; Blackwood UlmanJones 4-24, James Collie 3-18).

MiaMia 6-104 (Jackson Conforti40, Justin Conforti 40; Robert Cook 3-12, Tristin Parsons 2-42) defeated Newstead 9-101 (Tomek Holland 29, Wayne Blake19, Kyle Yanner 12 notout;Justin Greet2-7,Matthew McLean 2-8).

Muckleford 3-94 (SethGross 34 notout, Abraham Isdale 17 notout,Jamie Cox12; Alfred Chaffey 2-3) defeated Castlemaine United 9-92 (OliverGrainger 23, StevePenrose 22, Alfred Chaffey 21; Chris Edwards2-5, Rhys Tingay2-14, Jamie Cox2-19).

Taradale 8-227 (Steve Curnow 77, Nicholas Worthington36 notout,Kym Szegedi 34, Leigh Bennett 20; Vineet Kumar 4-15, Nathaniel Lowe 2-47) lost to Hepburn5-229 (AshleyLovick 122 notout, TomCrosswell 36, Nathaniel Lowe 24, VineetKumar 19, Daniel Bell 13) Heathcotehad the bye.

Women

TheWomen return to thepitch forthe final homeand away round this Fridayevening February 27 with Newstead to host North Castlemaine, Guildfordtowelcome Campbells CreekColts, Castlemaine United to host Muckleford at the Camp Reserveand Hepburntohost BarkersCreek. Matches kick offat6pm CGrade DayTwo

Barkers/North/Harcourt 4-121 (Fletcher McAinch 50 retired notout, Kale Waddington 31, BraydenAllan 19 notout;Henry Blake2-14) defeated Newstead 8-119 (William Garsed 34, Henry Blake33; BraydenAllan 3-3) Carisbrook 10-83 (Axel Purcell 14, Mason Trickey 11; Charlie Cordy3-11) lost to CastlemaineUnited Gold 5-85 (Charlie Cordy44; Joshua Nalder 2-12, Axel Purcell2-18). Castlemaine United Blue 8-42 (Declan Brasher 11 retirednot out; Blackwood Ulman Jones 4-15, Mitchell Sturgess 2-16) lost to Campbells Creek 10-66 (Blackwood Ulman Jones 14; Patrick Brasher4-6).

Laanacoorie Dunolly 10-46 (EdwardCrumpton 14; Elsa Curran 3-10) lost to Muckleford2-118 (LewisPepper 23 retirednot out, Fabrizio Petrucci 22 retirednot out, Zavier Turner 17 retirednot out,GraceSmith 10 retired notout).ColtsPhelans had the bye

EAGLES TAKE FLIGHT

From page1

Thejourneyhas also ignited a broader conversation aboutinclusion and player-first pathways in regional football, with the club’s campaign drawing support locally,nationally and even internationally

Now, the focus shifts firmlyto the future

“Our commitmenthas always been to provide our players with everything theyneed to play football competitively,while also building aclubthatcontributes positively to Kynetonand the surrounding communities,”Ms Korinfsky said.

“Weare proud to represent our region, proud of our players, and excited forwhatcomes next.”

With their placesecured, the Wedge-Tailed Eagles will begin preparations immediately for their inaugural CVFL season in 2026 –ready to take thefield, together at last LEAGUE VP RESIGNS In aseparatedevelopment,

RDFNL vice-presidentAndrew Powerhas resigned following offensivecomments made on the women’s club’s social media. In astatement, the league said it becameaware of the comments

last Monday “Following abriefreview, Andrew Powerand theRDFNL mutually agreed thathis personal views arenot aligned with the values of the league, its boardand

staff,”the statementsaid.

“The RDFNL does notcondone or support the behaviour reflected in those comments and apologises forany distress caused to membersofour community.”

TheWedge-Tailed Eagles areready to playinCVFL in 2026. Photo: Ties Urie Photography

North Castlemaine A Reserve batsman Gavin James evades a delivery from his Castlemaine United opponent at Camp Reserve Photo: Max Lesser

Tigers march through to final

Kyneton’sUnder 15 girls hosted Macedon in their GDCA semi final at TheKynetonShowgrounds last Friday.

Having beatenthem the previous week, Kynetonwent into the gameaswarm favourites and indeed came away with avictory and agrand final appearancenextweek.

Winning the toss and batting, the home team gotaway to agood start putting 14 on the boardbeforetheylost their first wicket.Quinn Barnett and Eloise Arnup kept the momentumgoing until Barnetwas dismissed fornine. Arnup and QuincyRogerskeptthe scoreticking along and were both able to reach their retirementof15deliveries faced.

Themiddle order of Madeline Ferguson, ZoeKnott and AshleyCross kept the scoreboardmoving as theyadded three, 12 and nine respectively,moreimportantly Knott and Cross reached retirement.

Aminata Kuyateh, AdaWalsh and Matilda Hickey all added to thetally until Arnup and Rogers returned to the crease to add 26 valuable runs from thefinal 21 balls of the innings.

Arnup 26 notout, Rogers and Knott both with12were the toprunsscoresfor the Tigers as they reached six for 100 from their 20 overs.Best forMacedon with the ball was Jocelyn Howlett with twowicketsfor fiveruns.

Macedon’s innings began with an early wicket,Lily Malone 21 runs from her 20 delivery wasproving difficult to dismiss but wicketswerefalling around her.Rosie Maguigan and Barnett both taking early wicketssaw atighttussle unfold. Howlett sevenruns, FreyaDodd 12 runs and Lily Arkinstall eightrunsall contributed in the middle order but were unable to reach the retirementof20balls.

With 38 runs needed from 48 deliveries, the Abbi Condron 13th over proved decisivethree wicketsfor the overended the matchwith Malone dismissed duetoa great outfield catchbyBarnett. Allout eightwicketsfor 71 runs falling short of Kyneton’stotal by 29 runs.

Next week KynetonUnder 15 girls takeonthe undefeated Wallan at Wallan. In only their first season as an Under 15s group, the Kynetongirls have performed amazingly and with ateam of four first year players andmost girls only in the second season, even making finals this season is already awin. Fingersand toes crossed theremay evenbeone more victory to come

Topsideswithrunson board

Bill West

Romseyand Woodend batted their wayintostrong positions in McIntyreCup 1sts cricket on Saturday.

There'scertainly an air of expectation across the Gisborne District Cricket Association with finals looming.

Thetop four is yettobesettled in McIntyreCup, with the second last round to conclude this Saturday

Theoutstanding innings on SaturdaycamefromRupertswood captain Matt Twentyman, who scored amagnificent 157 (foursixes, 22 fours) to keep his side's slim hopes alive. Rupertswood scored 251 against Wallan, and victory would mean thelast round matchbetween Rupo andSunbury United is very much alive.

At Gilbert Gordon Reserve, Woodend scored ahealthy 241 against United, leaving the topside's bowlerstoprove their worth this Saturday.

Opener Daniel Eastleyheld the innings together with a patient62, all-rounder Warren Else produced ahalfcentury at the righttime, and Jacques Du Toit scored abrisk 40. Woodend is keen to retain topspotgoing into the finals, with second-placed reigning premier Gisborne itching to makeupapoints deficit over thelast tworounds.

At Broadford, Gisborne looked likely to dismiss the home side very cheaply,but Joshua Nolanscored61and Braden Hickey 23 to prolong the innings.

Captain-coach JarrydVernon sentdown24 overstocapture 3-30, and paceman Leigh Brennan claimed 3-38. Chasing 153, Gisborne rattled up aswift 42 in seven overs forthe loss of three wicketsbeforestumps.

At home, Romseylostthree early wicketsagainst Macedon, before asteady fourth wicket stand between Corey Day50and Matt Milne 41 steadied the side.

Captain BenWay hit apolished 80 from 92 deliveries to help lift his side to 262, and Macedon then reached 0-19 from four overswith Daniel Trotta hitting three boundaries. Cam Clayton claimed four wicketsand will be looking for plenty of runs as Macedon try foranupset victory

Currentladder: Woodend 74.73 points, Gisborne 70.09, Romsey64.55, Sunbury United 58.86, Macedon 55.89, Rupertswood 54.08, Wallan 38.85, Broadford33.85. HANGING ROCK TREBLE

Saturdaywas agreat dayfor Hanging Rock CC,with its three sides all successful.

In Jensen Shield, Hanging Rock vice-captain Steven Zubrycki captured three wicketsagainst Romsey, then powered his wayto89 in awinning tally of 5/159.

Apart from Twentyman's century, therewerethree other hundreds scored.

Kilmoreopener Dale Tassone scored 102 against Diggers Rest in Johnstone 1sts, John Lane retiredon105 for Rupertswood in Jensen Shield, and Riddell'sHayden Castle retired for100 against Wallan in the samegrade. ALL THESCORES

McIntyre Cup1sts: Woodend 241 (D.Eastley62, W. Else 59, J. Du Toit 40, H. Lawson 28) vSunbury United; Broadford153 (J.Nolan 61, B. Hickey 23 —J.Vernon 3-30, L. Brennan 3-48)vGisborne 3-42; Rupertswood 251(M. Twentyman 157, N. Crotty 36) vWallan0-8; Romsey262 (B. Way80, C. Day 50, M. Milne 41, T. Stevenson25—C Clayton 4-72) vMacedon 0-19.

Johnstone 1sts: Kilmore223 (D.Tassone102, B. Dawson 30, R. Quinert 29 —T.Barratt4-53) vDiggers Rest; Eynesbury 116 (M. Khan 23 —Harrison Lehner 3-11, A. Richardt 3-30) vLancefield 3-38; Eastern Hill 7/312 (D.Fulco63, B. Bryant 59, O. Bryant 50, N. Fowler 46, B. Cox41- J. Patel 6-57) vEastSunbury;Harkness 117 (G.Grewal24-S.Barry 5-43) vSunbury Kangaroos 4/88 (J.Ballinger 42 -V.Veer 3-7).

McIntyre 2nds: Sunbury United 84 (G.Matthews 5-35) v Woodend 2/35; Broadford 8/168 (M. Collier61) vGisborne; Wallan 8/212 (B. Regan 73, B. Funnell 49 n.o. -O.McAliece 4-44) vRupertswood;Macedon 152 (C.Pender 61, C. Axton 25 -J.East 3-16) vRomsey.

Johnstone 2nds: East Sunbury 80 (C.Long 26 -F.Lewis 3-27) vEastern Hill 1/23; Eynesbury 242 (C.Price60, T. Beasley55, L. Patterson 53) vLancefield 2-11; Kilmore116 (R. Callaghan 33) vDiggers Rest 0-32; Harkness vSunbury (noscoresposted).

Jensen Shield (One-Day): Romsey158 (S. Day 33 -S Zubrycki 3-16, G. Sandow3-18) lost to Hanging Rock 5/159 (Zubrycki 89, B. Nicholls 24); Rupertswood 4/330(J. Lane 105 ret.,B.Marshall 94, B. vanden Heuvel 42, Z. Borg 28) d Malmsbury 5/143 (M. Pruden 50, U. Nakka 32, J. McDonald 24); Riddell 3/332 (H. Castle 100 ret.,L.Castle 83, J. Taylor 44, H. Fisher 40 n.o., P. Cashen 33) dWallan110 (Cashen 4-3) ;Macedon 8/200 (S. Gray83, W. Brundell 78 -B Whitehouse 3-36) dBlackwood 8/192 (Whitehouse 75, B

Mcniven 26 —S.Williams 3-21, S. Hanks 3-28); Trentham 114 (S. Rizio 33, G. Thomson 27 —C.Williams 5-16)lost to Gisborne 7/115 (D.Dharmapala 29 n.o., G. Buskes 23 —A Wilkie 3-12); Woodend 124 (A. Gray 32) lost to Sunbury United 3/126 (A. Smith 44 n.o., J. Zarcos-Fisher 32). Malmsbury Green 9/144(M. Chivell 29, T. Blizzard27) lost to Woodend 5/145 (O.Close 35 n.o., G. McDonald 25). Jensen 3rds: DiggersRest 87 (S. Davies 22 —H.Hunt 3-9 )lost to Melton South (3) 1/91 (K.Rajendran 42 n.o., S. Lowe 38); Aintree8/175 (S.Kotta 39, M. Saini 32 —M Lindsay3-19) dRiddell 7/142 (M. Boland 39 n.o., M. Day 26, O. Arthur25— B. Chandra3-15); Melton Centrals 8/244 (A. Singh 71, V. Sankat 45, N. Mittapally 38, G. Sohi 32) dSunbury 8/179 (S. Nand 46, M. Sambyal28 —S Partridge3-38); Melton South(4) 9/105 (L. Bielby26n.o.) lost to Hanging Rock 0/106(L. O'Meara50 n.o., J. Smith 38 n.o.); Rupertswood 9/162 (C.Baker 36, P. Butler 30, J. Vij 26 —S.Sandhu 3-25, G. Boon 3-32) lost to Melton 5/166 (P.Boon66n.o., M. Rybicki 33); Eynesbury vKilmore(no scores posted).

Club North: Broadford145 (J.Walsh 50, A. Culpin 40) lost to Hanging Rock 3/147(M. Fisher 45 n.o., N. Tonkin 41, Fill-in 34 n.o.); EasternHill 9/302 (L. Prior 66, C. Russell 54 n.o., T. Hanson 47, O. Loweke 35 —K.McElhinney3-27) dLancefield 9/221 (H. Parks 60 n.o.,C.Stein52 n.o. —C Russell 4-39; Kilmore8/146 (K. Mcnicholas 36, M. Jarvie 30) lost to Wallan 8/147 (D.Curran 53 n.o); Romsey8/156 (R. Gray50n.o., L. Jackson 31 n.o. —L.Freeth 5-25) lost to Gisborne 4/160 (PP 49 n.o., H. Telfer 39, M. Schappacher 39); Malmsbury Gold 2/170 (B. McCutcheon 53 ret.,J Lewer51ret.,J.Mooney26n.o.) dKyneton9/107 (H. Edmondston 24 —S.Orr 3-19);Malmsbury Greenv Woodend (noscoresposted). Club South: Sunbury 9/109 (J.Allen 31 —G.Salisbury 3-21) lost to Woodend 3-115 (M. Schober 50, D. Ranson 24 n.o.); Rupertswood 129 (D.O'Donovan 36, P. O'Donovan 34 —B.Freeth 5-12) lost to Gisborne 8/133 (T.Williams 45 —G.Smajila4-24, P. O'Donovan3-19); Eynesbury 94 (M.Brown 35)lost to Sunbury United 2/97 (D.George 27, K. Dhanjal 24 n.o.); DiggersRest114 (P.Coates52n.o.— T. Singh 3-20) lost to Melton Centrals 3/118 (A.Singh 52 n.o., N. Brar 37; Bacchus Marsh6/183 (P.Griffiths, R. Bayley 32 n.o., M. Hicks29) dMelton 74 (N. Banipal 26 —J.Shea 3-21); East Sunbury 2/90 vMeltonSouthabandoned.

EloiseArnup on her waytoamatchhigh 26 notout. Photo:Sophie McLeod

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