Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil has rejected aproposaltofreezerates forthe next financial year in favour of athree per cent rate rise.
During 2025/26 Budget debate last week, Cr Daniel Young putforwardan option fora zero general rate increase to relieve cost-of-living pressures.
"Weare living in atime wherethere aresignificantfinancial pressuresonthe public.People arereally doing it tough," Cr Young said.
"Wehear alot from the public that council does things thatare notwithin scope or thatcouncil shouldn't be involved in, and thatweneed to getback to basics. Tonight, Ireally stress thatwe can hold the line on rates."
Cr Young'sproposalwould have removedabout $1.5 from thecouncil's
operational expenditureinthe proposed draftbudget
It gained the support of Crs Alison Joseph and Kate Kendall but othersargued the move would setthe council back.
Cr Christine Walker calculated it would be asaving of $55 per annum per household on averageand argued the proposed rateincrease wassmall.
"Weare talkingabout an extraordinarily small amountofmoney.Itwill have very littleimpact on the averagehousehold... however, thatrateincrease makes amassivedifferencetocouncil,"she said.
"I think we have to be very careful of nottaking awrecking ball to our budget and council. These aredifficult financial times and ourcouncil suffers those also."
Cr Young'sproposalalsoinvolvedcreation of aAdvisory ExpenditureReview Committee to deliberatewherethe cost cutswould be made. Some councillors
Farmers under pressure
Gisborne farmers Tom and Bec Neal are asking the state government to consider the full cost of the its looming Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund on those hardest hit
Rate freezerejected
were concerned about delaying delivery of the budget
Theproposedratefreezewas in contrast to thestate governmentimposed three per cent rate capand decisionsof some neighbouring councils.
Hepburn ShireCouncil requested a ratevariation and will increaseits rates 10 per cent forthe 2025/26 period. This is aposition MRSC has so farmanaged to avoid.
MayorDom Bonanno said double digit rateincreases wasnot something he "would ever want to happen in the Macedon Ranges anytime in the future".
"(A ratesfreeze) would meanwe'djust keep falling behind with things likeasset renewaland things our community need," he said.
Crs Jennifer Anderson, JanetPearce, DomBonanno and Andrew Scanlonalso expressed concern about the long-term
impactoncouncil finances, services and general business.
However, Cr Kendall argued thatthe three per cent rate cap wasa cap"not atarget" andchallenged councillorsto consider acustomrateapplication, if not now, then into the future
"Our community'spleaissimple: just fix the roads and potholes, and our community is forced to live withconstraints but it'stime thatour councildid the same,"she said.
Avoteand division recorded those councillorsinfavour of aratefreeze were:Crs Young, Joseph andKendall, while those against were:Crs Bonanno, Anderson, Walker,Pearce,Scanlonand Borthwick.
Councillorsvoted in favour of the officer'srecommendation to approve thedraft budget by thesame 6-3 vote (details page4).
Farmersunder pressure
AmyHume
Fourth generation Gisborne sheep farmer TomNeal could be the last in his family to work the land. He doesn't liketo think thatbut admits it's apossibility he facesasmoreand morechallenges emerge forVictorian farmers.
Aftermonthsofdroughtand dry conditions across most of the state,the latest obstacle is man-made: the Victorian Government'slooming Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund.
Themoreexpensivetax will replacethe currentFire Services Levy from July 1. It will funda wider rangeof emergency services thatincluding fireservices, the State Emergency Service, triple-0 and thestate controlcentre, but farmersare going to be hit with the highest increases.
Protests have seen the governmentoffer farmersa reprieve forthe 2025-26 financial year but farmersfear the futurecharges could damagethe industry
Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil has calculatedthe ESVF levy willtotal about $12 million from all Macedon Ranges residents and businesses. This is reported to be an increase of $4.5 million on the current Fire Services Levy SUSTAINABILITY QUESTIONED
Mr Neal said the newlevyadded awhole newchallenge to farm viability
"Rather than taxing anytypeofincome or profit margins through this levy,weare actually taxing assets of production themselves, regardless of whether moneyismadeorlost," he said.
"Wereally do need to think about whether that'sa sustainable, viable or economically reasonable thing to do, because if youare notmakingmoneyonthatasset, howcan youpay it out?"
Mr Neal said having an unstable taxation base through the ESVF would meananunreliable income stream for emergency services.
"I do accept thatemergency services need to be funded but driving farmersoff their land so theycan't even manage their ownland properly is notananswer," he said "I think we'rerisking afull-on farmcollapse, where farmersare just going to walk away or they'regoing to go bankrupt. What we'rereally doing is alot of damagetoour ownprimary production industries.
"I think this levy is agiantdis-incentivetoanyonewho wantstogointo primary production. If Iwas thinking of starting it now, Iwouldn't do it."
TIMES ALREADYTOUGH
Mr Neal farms sheep formeatand wool on a1100-acreproperty. He has already seen challenges in recent years.
Adroughtabout 10 yearsago saw a changefromblack angus to sheepdue to unreliable feed sourcesand related expenses.
About fiveyearslater,further dry conditions forced the farm to runat reduced stock levels, about 560 sheep, and the family is nowselling firewood from fallen trees on the property to bolster their budget
"Therehasn't been muchgrass growth fora number of yearsnow," Mr Neal said.
"Therereally isn't very much growth even now(aftersome rain). These conditions severely limit the type of economic activityyou canexpect out of the land."
Thefull extent of state governmentdroughtfunding reliefisnot available to areas likeMacedon Ranges, which has notbeen officially declared adroughtareadespiteprolonged dry conditions.
Adding complexity is aRural Conservation Zone on parts of Mr Neal'spropertytoprotect valuable local flora and fauna. It's something he has worked hardtocarefully maintain but means some activities arerestricted on theland, further limiting theeconomic productivity of the farm.
CONSIDER THEFULL COST
Despitebeing afourth generation farmer,saleofhis propertyhas enteredMrNeal'smind sincethe newtax was announced.
"Ifsomeone camealong with avery good offer, it'ssomething thatyou'd have to consider,and Ihatesaying that,but Ican't destroymyself and my family because of government policy," he said
"I'vespokentoa farmerfromAraratwho foughtfor al-
most 18 months to receivejustover$2500 in droughtrelief and then he's got to payout over $20,000 when his levy comes in. Howridiculous is that?
"There'sconstantanxiety –that'snot away foranyone to live.And withoutsupport from government, which we're clearly notgetting, whywould anyone want to dothat?"
TheNeal family is calling on the state governmentto consider the cost of the newlevy: financially,emotionally and sustainably
"We're nowina position wherea lotoffarmersare right up against the wall,"MrNeal said.
"I think the state governmentneeds to be morefiscally responsible and maybe consider slowing down some of the capital works spending. They areurban-centred and need to think of the entirestate,not just one part of it."
TheVictorian FarmersFederation has called forthe state governmenttoscrap thelevyand or consider reforms. Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil and MountAlexander Shire Council have joined councils around the statetooppose the newlevy.
Fourth generation Gisborne sheep farmer Tom Neal could be the last in his family to work the land
Call formoratorium
Jade Jungwirth
Thepremier'sannouncementofa 12-month reprievefor primary producers paying the variable rate of the Emergency Services and VolunteersFund, has done little to allaythe concerns of MountAlexander Shirecouncillorswho arecalling on the state governmenttodomore.
At last week'sordinary meeting, councillorspassed amotion requesting amoratorium be placedonthe ESVF,toallowfor an inquiry to investigate the mostfair and equitable approach to funding emergency services. Hedging their bets thata moratorium mightberejected, the council also requested thatthe StateRevenue Office collect thefunds to remove the burden of administration, collection and debtrecovery from local councils. Themotion wassupported six to one, withCrLucas Maddock representing the singular no vote,following afailed attempttoamend the motion to remove the word moratorium.
"The major concerns hereare theeffects
on council, and Ithink amorefitting thing would be assurances from the Victorian Governmentthatcouncils will notbeout of pocket forthis,"CrMaddocksaid
"Secondly forfarmers, and the disproportionate effect this has on them
"It'snot apopular position, butIthink we need to raise revenue, and thetax,done well and properly,isnot abad thing.
"We're in aclimate crisis. We'reseeing morefrequentemergencies, that arecosting more. We need morefunding to our emergency services and it needs to come from somewhere."
Cr Toby Heydon agreed witha number of Cr Maddock'ssentiments about the need for additional funding foremergency services.
"There'snodoubtthatweneed more funding forour emergency services, and I think thatCrWalker'smotion and the rationale were very clear on that,"CrHeydon said.
"But of course, it'show we go about doing that."
Cr Phillip Walker maintained his initial
beliefthatthe word moratorium wasnecessary,and indicatedashowofunity with the United Fire Fighters Union and other councils.
"Some of the resolutions [fromother councils]havediscussed farmersindrought, we have decided nottouse thatbecause at some pointthe droughtwill break, but the inequitable fundraising arrangements will continue to apply," he said
"Some [councils]are suggesting the ESVF has the potential to bankruptcouncils because, if thereisa boycottonpaying the volunteer fund, councils still have an obligation to put aproportion of thatacross to state government."
Cr Tony Cordy, alocal farmer whose family has farmed in the region forgenerations, said thatassomeone who wasdirectly affected by the ESVF,hecouldn't understand whyfarmershad been targetedinthis way.
"Myquestion is: when thefarmersare gone howwill the peopleinthe city live? Remember,supermarketsdon't grow the food we eat."
Farmersand councils fight levy
Farmersand local governmentsay theywill continue to fightfor changetothe Victorian Government'snew Emergency Services and VolunteersFund.
Thefund is expected to collect about$12 million from Macedon Ranges residents and businesses –anincrease of $4.5 million on the currentFireServices Levy,with primary producerstaxed highest.
About 85 farmers and emergency serviceworkersgathered at the Newham Fire Station fora dedicatedforum and listening post held by the Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil.
Attendees shared stories of hardship, frustration over aseeming lack of governmentunderstanding of howfarming is undertaken in the regions, and farmersneeds during already difficult dry conditions.
Twolocally based livestock agents, Nutrien and Elders, have both reported hugeincreases in farmersselling cattle and sheep.
TheESVFtax will be chargedalongside council ratesfromJuly 1 but community backlash has already seen some people threatennot to paythe levy,however, thereare consequences.
Anypayments made on arates noticemustbeproportionally split between council ratesand other levies, including theESVFLevy, even if the ratepayerstates theydonot wish to paythe levy
Should peoplerefuse to pay, council will report higher levels of rates and chargesoutstanding. These amountsremain attached to the property as an unpaid charge,potentially attracting interest.
Higher levels of unpaid ratesand chargesmay impact council's cash balances, and ability to deliver services and programs.
Budget approved forRanges
Stagetwo of the Macedon Ranges Sports Precinct,KynetonSkatepark designs, and pitch lighting forDixon Field, areamong the projects backed in Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil'sBudget 2025-26.
Thedraft budget wasapprovedwitha three per cent averageraterise at the council'sordinary meeting last week in 6-3 vote while an option for aratefreezewas also discussed in detail.
MRSC will generate$53.56 million from general ratesand the municipal charge. Theincrease from 2024-25 is equal to thethree per cent maximum rate capincrease permitted by the Victorian Government’sFair Go Rates system.
Thebudgetincludes revenue of $124.5 million, which contributes towardsthe delivery of $28.4 million of capital expendituretorenewand upgrade council'sassets.
Some of the projects include $11.5 million on local roads, bridges, footpaths, drainageand associatedworks, including just over$900,000 on newfootpaths.
Thebudgetalso includes $9.2 million on Stage2 of the Macedon Ranges Regional Sports Precinct,and $1.17 million on recreation-focused initiatives.
Some of those projects include designs fora newKynetonSkatepark, continued renewalworks forlighttowersatcouncil’s sporting facilities, design forlighttowers andovalsurfacing works at RomseyOval2,and pitch lighting forDixon Field in Gisborne.
Close to $2 million will be spentonbuilding renewals, including severalcommunity-driven initiatives through earlier consultation such as an access ramp andair conditioning upgrade to Lancefield Courthouse, awater tank forthe Bullengarook CommunityHalland toiletupgrades for the Woodend Bowling Club.
Thecouncil will also continue to facilitate two free green wastevouchersand two‘free weeks’ forgreen wastedisposal at council resource recovery facilities.
Nowornever forHub
Council adopts $56million budget for 2025-2026
Council adopted the2025-2026 Budget following community consultation and feedback.
Thebudget outlines Council’spriorities forthe upcoming financial year and howwewill deliver morethan 100 services to the community
Highlights include active transport, carbon offsetting initiatives, ashire-wide biodiversity strategy,affordable housing, aFair Access Policy,and support forcommunity groups andevents.
Thebudget also includes $17 million in capital worksto improve infrastructuresuch as roads, bridges, drains, and footpaths, as well as strong investment in our community facilities.
The2025-2026Budget is available onlineat mountalexander.vic.gov.au/Our-Budget.
5471
Time is nearly out forthe Castlemaine Community InvestmentCo-operativetobuy the Hub.
At the time of printing, the Co-ophad raised morethan$1,184,000 (61 per cent)ofinvestments needed from 150 members.Anyonestill considering investmentneeds to act nowtobepartofmaking history in Castlemaine.
TheCo-op officially formed back on February 1, 2024.
Boardmember Angus Grattonsaid therewere about20members in theofficegoing through the ficial business at that firstgathering.
"Ron Snep cracked open somesparkling and then we spentthe next year doing whatweneeded do to buy theHub,”Angus said.
“Weworked outamechanism (landing on debentures),got it checkedbylawyers,registered with governmentand did thedue diligencechecks on the building, valuations and business modelling. And we built ourmembership and raisedmoneyto payfor it all,”said boardmember Cath Jolly.
“And aftera year we had it all done!
"Weare pretty proud that, apart from an early antfromthe Maldonand District Community Bank, we have done everything with the help of our members,”she said.
“(Currentowners) TheBarrettshavebeen supportivefromthe getgo,”said boardmember WarwickSmith. “When we were readyweoffered afairpricefor thebuilding and they agreed. It’s in good nick forits age, andwehavea lottoloseif thatHub of community lifegoestoa developer,” he said.
“It’sbeenamassive learning curve, but alot of people helped,”said member director JeanettePope.
“Look whatwehaveachievedtogether.Wenow have over360 membersand areonthe cuspof making history.Over360 people might ownour memories, our history,our future, our Hub! It’s absolutely amazing,”she said.
Become amember and invest by June 29 at www.castlemaine.coop
Road’s60k upgrade
Joseph Young DriveinMountAlexander Regional Park wasleftunattended formore than decade and deteriorated afteritwas wrongly placed onto MountAlexander Shire Council'spublic road register,instead of Parks Victoria's According to asource within council,political wranglings lasted yearsasthe state governmentbody refused "ownership of the road". MASC removedthe road from its public register in 2024 to forceresponsibility onto Parks Victoria, and the Express can reveal Parks spent$60,000 at thebeginning of June to repairthe road's unsafe condition Despitethis, the agency is yettoassumefull responsibilityand add the road to its public register
Kynetonpubsfeature
Morgan Reinwald
TheAustralian Broadcasting Corporation has commissioned anew three-part TV series about the lifeofEvonne Goolagong and filming of the production took placelast in Kynetonlast Friday.
TV crews were seen filming inside The KynetonHotel and afew blocks away outside TheRoyal George Hotel. While manydetails about the showremain unknown, alettersentbythe production team to the Express statedthe show’s working title was Goolagong
TheIndigenous Australian waspreviously the world'snumber one female tennis playerwith acareer spanning from
1967to1983, and on Screen Australia’s website, the show'ssynopsis states:
“In1958, askinnyIndigenous sevenyear-old peered through the wirefence of the Barellan tennis courts, longing to play the sport she instinctively knew washer game. That longing would drive her to become the world'snumber one female tennis player, andone of Australia's most lovedsportswomen, winning 14 Grand Slam titles including Wimbledon twice, and overcoming harassmentfrom her coach, recovery from childbirth, and injury to defeat hergreat rival and be the world number one.”
Theshowiscurrently in pre-production.
Call forcaution after battery fire
Firefighters battled ashed fireinMaldon last Monday,managing to contain theblaze before it spread to anearbyhouse
Thefire, which wasbelievedtohave started in astand-alonebattery pack stored in the shed, brokeout at 4pmataresidence on Maldon-Newstead Road
Firefighters from 11 CFAunits worked together to bring the fireunder controlin under an hour
Incidentcontroller BruceClementsaid the firepresentedseveral challenges on the ground.
“Our crew wasfirst on scene and found the structurefully alight, withheavy smoke swirling throughout the area. Once suppression started, we identified whatappeared to be alithium-ion battery pack near the front of the building,”Brucesaid
“Access wasdifficult due to trees, other structures and general clutter,and we had to position crews carefully while maintaining asafedistancedue to poor visibility
“Therewas no mains wateravailable, so we established arelaysystemusing a nearbydam, withNewstead’sbig fill pumping wateruptoour tankers. That setup was keytogetting the fireunder control.”
CFADistrict 2AssistantChiefFireOfficer Dean Simmons said Victorians needed to be cautiouswhen storing or charging lithium-ion battery-powereddevices.
“When dealing with lithium-ion batteries, only use the chargerthatcamewith your device, or one that’sbeen certified as compatible,”Dean said.
“Only purchase and use devices and equipmentfromreputable manufacturers andsuppliers.”
Dean also highlightedthe importanceof interconnected smokealarms in the home.
“Interconnected smokealarms area must, especially in areas whereyou regularly charge devices,”hesaid.
“Early detection gives youthe best chance to act quickly if something goes wrong.”
Thefire is believedtohavestarted in alithium-ion battery pack stored in the shed.
Plans to drop road speeds
Plans to reducespeed limits in core business and activity areas of Kyneton, Woodend and Riddells Creekfor arenow out forpublic comment.
Thethree town proposals aim to improve safety and most proposals are to reducespeeds to 40km/h. Theplan is fully funded through the Victorian Government'sSafeLocal Roadsand Street Program.
Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil'sdirectorofassetsand operations, DomTestoni, said lowering speed limitsonselected roads wasasmall yetpowerful change, to influencedriverbehaviour around more pedestrian-heavy areas.
“The principles thatunderpin theSafe System approach arethatpeople make mistakes, people have alimited tolerance to injuries, and thatsafetyisashared responsibility –thisproposal aims to support all threeofthese,”hesaid.
“Weappreciate thatsome mayfeel lowering speed limits is an overreach or unnecessary,but no matter howadept or alert adriveryou feel youare,this measurewill reducethe risk of impeding factorsbothinand outside of our control.
"Those who have been involved in a serious vehicle incidentorhavesadly lost aloved onewill appreciate this morethan most.”
CHANGE PROPOSED
ForRiddells Creek, the biggest change proposed is to reducespeed on Sutherlands Road (east side of Stephen Street to 141 Sutherlands Road)from80km/h to 60km/h.
Five other Riddells Creekstreets would changefrom50km/h to 40km/h, those are: Station, Hamilton, Fitzgerald, Stephen andSutherlands Road
In Kyneton, MollisonStreetwould be reduced from 60km/h to 40km/h from Piper Street to north of Beauchamp Street Kynetonplans also show25streets that will changefrom50km/h to 40km/h including Mollison, High, Jennings, Baynton, Begg,Lauriston and Market streets.
In Woodend, BrookeStreetwould be reduced from 60km/h to 40km/h from
In Kyneton, Mollison Street would be reduced from 60km/h to 40km/h from Piper Street to north of Beauchamp Street
High Street to Wood Street.Forest Street (JeffreysStreettoHigh Street,and High Street to Nicholson Street)and High Street (Forest Street to BrookeStreet) would be reduced from 60km/h to 50km/h.
Plans forWoodend also lowerthe speed limit on six stretches of road from 50km/h to 40km/h. Those streets are: Jeffreys, twosections of Collier,Urquhart, Anslowand Nicholson. FEEDBACKWANTED
Adrop-insession forRiddells Creek washeld last week. Adrop-insession will be held at the Woodend Community Centre on Monday, June 30 from 5.30pm to 7pm. Adrop-insession will be held at council'sKynetonAdministration Centre on Tuesday, July 1, from 5.30pm to 7pm
Feedback is invited until Monday, July 7. Fora full mapand details, or to commentonthe proposal, visit: yoursay.mrsc. vic.gov.au/pedestrian-and-road-safetyimprovements
Take control of your health today
The GPspracticing at ourclinic arehighly trained and supported by ateam of friendly receptionistsand experienced nurses.
Discovering holes in your precious woolens? Go along to aDarning Workshop at the next Castlemaine and surrounds Repair Cafe on Sunday.
Bring matching wool or youcould use some of the Cafe'sstash of yarns and do some 'visible'darning. Needles etc.are provided. Keep those woolens going formanymoreyearswith a fewdarns hereand there. Booking forthe workshop is essential. PhoneChris on the number belowto book aplace
TheRepair Cafe is from 10am to 1pm. Take along broken household items including electrical appliances, lamps, toasters etc., sewing repairsand overlocker advice.
Kids, learn basic bicycle maintenance. Need Apple Macadvice? Go along and ask Tim.
Firstin, first served, so be prepared to wait. For further info andtobook a placeatthe Darning Workshop phone Chris on 5470 5508. If leaving amessage leave name and number clearly
Theworkshop starts at 10.30am at the Castlemaine Community House, 30 TempletonStreet(the old Continuing Ed building) behind the Town Hall
Bigideas forsmallbusiness
Artists, makers, creativeentrepreneursand arts-focused business ownerswill geta boost fortheir business skills at MountAlexander Shire’sMicroand SmallBusiness Day this FridayJune 27.
This free, full-dayevent taking placeatvenuesacrossCastlemaine this Fridayfeatures morethan20 practical workshops, expert panels, mentoring sessions and avibrant Business Expo at the Castlemaine Town Hall (12.15pm-2.30pm) –all tailored to help yougrowyour business, build connections and stay ahead of the curve.
Aspecial programstream has been designed especially forcreativebusinessownersand artists aspiring to makemoreincome from their practice.
In partnership withCreative Victoria and Business Victoria, the CreativeBusiness in Practice programincludes: Generating Cash Flow forCreativeBusiness –apractical two-hour session is tailored for small creativebusinesses, offering strategies to manageincome cycles, pricework effectively,and build financial stability;a45-minute mentoring session on the Business Victoria Bus; and a CreativeBusiness in Practice Panel Session and Tour of TheMill Castlemaine –joinlocal creatives fora panel on thekey elements of running asuccessful creativeenterprise–from developing your products and services to growing your market Council'smanager of economy and culture, Merryn Tinkler,said together with their partnersat
CreativeVictoria and Business Victoria, council waspleased to be creating this opportunityfor creatives to develop their business skills.
Minister forCreativeIndustries
Colin Brooks said MountAlexander Shirewas home to avibrant creativescene, one of the strongest in the state.
“It’sone of the things that makes this region suchanat-
tractiveplace to liveand visit, and it also helps powerthe local economy,"hesaid
“By supporting professional developmentopportunities likethese,weare ensuring that creativeworkersand businesses in our regions have the skills and knowledgetheyneedtothrive."
Check out theMicroand Small Business Day programonpage13 of today'spaper and book your
TheMicroand Small Business Dayishosted by MountAlexander ShireCouncil, with support from Midland Express/Castlemaine Mail, Workforce Australia, Castlemaine CommunityHouse, WorkspaceAustralia, StartUp CentralVictoria and Business MountAlexander
tipsfromEPA
If you’replanning aclean up projectintowinter, EPAVictoria has some handy hints to protect theenvironmentand preventyour jobs from turning intoaheadache. Hiring askip?Choose arespectable company, asktosee thereceipts that showtheytake wastetoa licensed landfill or recycling facility
If yoususpect there’sasbestos thereare simple rules thatlet youdeal with small amounts yourself,and above those amounts it’s just amatterofhiring alicensed asbestos removalist.
What about old paint and household chemicals?There aredrop-offpointsand household detoxeventstoallowyou to dispose of those.
Check the EPAwebsitebeforeyou start,and do your bit to preventharmtoour environment.
Local artists LisaMajor (Subgreen Gallery), Loudon Cooper (Terra Ceramics)and Bridget Farmer (printmaker and illustrator) look forwardtoleading the ‘CreativeBusiness in Practice’ panel at ShedshakerBrewing as part of this Friday’sMicroand Small Business Expo in Castlemaine. Photo: Lisa Dennis
LOCALS settoinspire
Castlemaine Documentary Festival's (July 4-6) belovedannual celebration of homegrownstorytelling LOCALS returns to Castlemaine historic TheatreRoyal on SaturdayJuly 5.
LOCALS brings together avibrantcollection of short-form works by centralVictorian filmmakersand is so popular with local audiences thatticketshad just about sold outat the time of going to press!
From heartfelt to hilarious, these films offera windowintothe people, places and stories thatmakeour community unlike anyother.All films selected to screen at LOCALS areinthe running foranaward: AudienceChoiceAward,Judges’Choice Awardand an EncouragementAward.Winnersreceivea BlackMagic Design DaVinci ResolveStudio worth $500.
LOCALS will coincide with the screening of renowned local photographer Leonie Van Eyk'sstunning film NatureLoves To Hide.
Thefilm followsthe artist John Wolseley, oftenincamouflageand crawling on his knees, as he paints the habitatand architectureofdesert mammals, birds and reptiles.
Filmed in the Tanami, GreatSandy Desert and the WimmerainVictoria, the film shows howthe artist stealthily approaches and draws animals in their warrens, burrows, mounds, and nests.
Wolseleyclimbs trees near his home in Victoria to documentthe nests of treecreepersand tawnyfrogmouths. He draws burrowing bettongs and greaterbilbies as they arereturned to theAustralian WildlifeConservancy’spark at Newhaven, and spends hourswaiting fora glimpse of GreatDesert Skinks with their basking mounds, latrines and birthing pools. Desert footagecourtesy of Iria Kuen.
Theevent will getunder wayat4.30pm. Getyourticket todayatcdocff.com.au/ program/nature-loves-to-hide-locals
Programs &Services
Continence Service
Did you knowthat1in4Australians are incontinent? If you experience bladder or bowel leakage, you may have incontinence. Incontinence can significantly affect quality of life but the good news is that it can be managed, treated and sometimes cured.
Our Continenceteamoffersa caring service in which to discuss continence concerns, offering comprehensive assessments, discussions regarding bladder and/or bowel health, and relatedsymptoms.
The team also supports children with continence concerns such as toilet training, bed wettingand constipation.
We also supportpeople living with a disability as aregistered NDIS provider.
T: 54713575
Current Vacancies
Nordic Walking Groups
Nordic Walking is a full-body exercise that uses special poles to activate your upper body as you walk.It’s also agreat workout forthose whohave joint issues such as arthritis.
Term 3for Nordic Walking Groups is about to getunderway for new walkers. Dates for the term are 21 July to 19 September:
• Castlemaine: Mondays at 2pm, Castlemaine Botanical Gardens, meet in the playground carpark
• Harcourt: 4pm on Tuesdays, meet oppositeHarcourt CFA shed. Group forcontinuing Nordic Walkers will meet as usual on Fridays in Castlemaine.
T. 5479 1000
•OccupationalTherapist Grade 2 -Ongoing/full-time
•Physiotherapist Grade 2 -Ongoing/full-time or part-time
Leonie VanEyk’sfilm NatureLovesToHide with John Wolseley,pictured, will featureaspart of the LOCALSevent
Builderstry to burn ahouse
Morgan Reinwald
Twobuildersrenovating ahouse setlight to atoxic bonfireinCarlsruhe last Friday afternoon and resulted in police, alocal laws officer and multiple firebrigadesfromacross the region battling the blazeuntil 8.30pm ACFA member from Carlsruhe station said the 7x12m pileofwastebeing burnt wasmadeupofhousehold and construction materials thatincluded plastic, metal and treatedwood. Photos confirmed ametal sink, metal ladder and metres of PVCpiping were burnt.
"Itwas abonfireand it wasbasically filled up with ahouse renovation. Anything that could have been in ahouse wasinthatpile. He wasabuilder,soheshould'veknown better,"the CFAmember said.
It took nine firetrucks and vehicles from Carlsruhe, Kyneton, Woodend, Macedon and Newham stations to smother the toxins, while anotification went outonthe Vic Emergency App to warn people of smoke presence. It also provided medical adviceand
The7x12m pile of wastebeing
aphone line foranyoneexperiencewheezing, chest tightness or difficulty breathing.
Thehouse being renovatedislocatedona corner block and wasvisible to passing residents on both streetswho notified Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil. AMASC spokesperson confirmed the blaze"reignited severaltimes due to thenatureofthe materials",and there were "potential breaches of both the EnvironmentProtection Act2017 and Council’s Community Local Law2023"
TheEnvironmental Protection Agency confirmed theyhad been made awareand were investigating. More photosofthe blaze can be found on the Midland Express website.
Joey drowns, mother euthanised
Morgan Reinwald
Afemalekangaroo has been euthanised and its joeyhas drowned afterthe twobecame trapped in the ColibanWater Channel.
Wildliferescuer IanSlattery attended the incidentand said the female kangaroo wasfound lying in twofeetofwater with a ripped patella, "a death sentence forkangaroos",while its joey layinher pouch submerged under waterthe entiretime. The mother waseuthanisedafter the rescuedue to thenatureofthe injury
"The fact she wascarrying alivejoeythatdrowned just makes it all that much worse," Slattery said.
He told the Express in April, “Wehavefor yearsbeen asking Coliban to maketheir water channels safe andtheyhavedoneabsolutely nothing about it"
AColiban Waterspokesperson said at the time theywerecompleting analysis to understand wildlifemovementalong the channel "to inform ourdecision-making around the installation of additional wildlifecrossings".Theywerecontacted forcommentregarding an update on their analysis but did notrespond.
Slattery said he had sinceresponded to at least threeother kangaroo rescues in the water channel and had no doubts other rescuerswould have attended similar incidents in the channel.
"Wewentout to rescue one kangaroo in the Coliban [recently]and we found eight other kangaroos dead in the water,"hesaid.
"Gayle Tierney, the Minister forWater,needs to act on this and be directing Coliban Watertobesafefor wildlife. It oughttobealegislativerequirement."
Tierneywas also contacted forcommentbut did notrespond.
WildlifeVictoria confirmed therehas been "anuptick in nativewildlifetrapped in the Coliban WaterChannel sincethe end of 2023, with continued growth".
Woodend MP Georgie Purcell raised the issueoftrapped wildlifeinthe Coliban's channel during parliamentand Tierneyresponded with confirmation Coliban Waterwould meetwith Macedon Ranges WildlifeNetwork. Purcell said this wasyet to occur "Our request to confirm ameeting timehas notbeenanswered,"she said.
Thefemale kangaroo wasfound lyingintwo feet of water with aripped patella
burntwas made up of household and constructionmaterials.
Big ideas for small business your
Micro and Small Business Day
Learn, network and be inspired by a day of free events and workshops for aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners.
1.15pm -2.45pm Social Media Marketing 2.30pm -3.30pm Work Well: AWellbeing Toolkit
2.30pm -3.30pm Funding BusinessGrowth
2.45pm -3.45pm TheAdaptation Game
3.00pm -4.30pm Using AI to Boost Productivity
3.30pm -4.30pm Planning your Exit
3.30pm -4.30pm BusinessStructurefor People &Profit
4.30pm -7.30pm AfterHours: Small Business Roving Networking
5.30pm -6.30pm Managing BusinessGrowth
Funds awarded
Acommunitykitchen garden, bush dance, film project and sensory station were four projects awarded funding through Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil's Small Project Grantsprogram fornot-forprofit groups.
Macedon and MountMacedon Community House wasawarded $3000 forits community kitchen garden wicking beds project.
Thegarden project involves supplying and installing twoadditional wicking beds at the house. It will allowvolunteerstoincrease production and the regular supply of fresh producetothe Gisborne Foodbank.
Upper Deep Creek LandcareGroup was awarded $2255 forits landcarebushdance project with the goal of building social connections between landcaregroups.
Macedon and MountMacedon Landcare Group wasawarded $2900 forits Movies on the Mountproject
Membersintend to host aseries of screenings of environmental films and have partnered with Environmental Films Australia, asmall non-profit thatcurates environmental films, relatedtothe localarea. This aims to strengthen community connection and raise awareness.
Windarring wasawarded $3000 forits sensory station project intended to support people witha disability through sensory play.
Theproject aims to assist in emotional regulation, improve cognitiveand physical developmentaswell as engagementand interaction.
Severalspecial guestswere featured at the KynetonMechanics InstituteonSundayJune 15 as Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil and the Kindness to EldersInitiativepresentedafreeafternoon of film to mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
Despitethe cold,greyday, agood turnoutcame to show support forthe event, which washostedbyveteranactor Ian Rooney. Thewelcoming sounds of the KynetonBrass Band and smells of sizzling sausages, frying donuts and brewing coffee greetedall with acarnival air
Local identityJanet Wood AM, former presidentofthe Council on the Ageing (Victoria), raised the inaugural WEAAD flagtoopen the eventand gave astirring and informativespeech on howsociety could act on elder abuse. Aftera shortfilm on financial elder abuse, it wastime forIan’s firstguest,another local identity and international speaker,Bob Nixon, whodelivered an impressivesession on protecting one's finances. While the pure vocals of Young Voices of Macedon Choir rang out through thehall, Ian’snexttwo guests waited in the wings. Arriving on stagetothe delightofall and needing no introduction, local identities of film and fame,Shane Jacobson and Stephen Curry, both donatedvaluable timefor their community. Alongside Ian, thethree actorskepteveryone spellbound and if it weren’tfor the scheduled screening of the featurefilm Thelma at 2pm, their talk on lifeinfilm would have farexceeded the 45 minutes theygave. Thelma itself waswell attended and its screening wasthe perfect ending to asuccessful day.
Council and the Kindness to EldersInitiativewould liketothank everyone involved –each and every onedonatedtheir time to take part and their community spirit shone the lightonkindness to elders.
If youoranyone youknoware experiencing elder abuse phone theconfidential helpline at Senior Rights Victoria on 1300 368 821 (and press option 1).
Stephen Curry, IanRooneyand Shane Jacobson at the KynetonMechanics Institute.
Know whatyou canclaim UnderstandingWFH deductions at taxtime
It’s thattime of year when manyAustralians will be considering whether to seek help from an accountantortackle their tax return independently
An RMIT expert shares adviceonpreparing your tax return andhow to avoiderrors with WFH deductions.
“Common misconceptions still trip up manytaxpayers when it comestowork from home (WFH)deductions,"said Dr AngelZhong, Associate Professor of Finance.
“For WFH deductions, the revisedfixed rate method allows youtoclaim70cents per hour,covering electricity, internet, phone andofficeconsumables. However, you must keep detailed recordsofyourhoursworked and ensureyou’renot double-dipping by claiming additional expenses already included in the fixed rate
“You can’tclaim rent or mortgageinterestunless you’rerunning abusiness from home,and personal items likecoffee, teaorsnacks arenot deductible. Similarly,you can’t claim your entireinternetorphone bill, only the portion thatdirectly relatesto your work.
“Being awareofthese rules can help youavoid errorsand potential audits.
“For individuals witha straightforwardincome –likewages or salaries –and minimal deductions, theATO’s platform is oftensufficient.
“However, if youhavemultiple income streams, run abusiness, or want to ensure you'reclaimingeverything you'reentitled to,aregistered tax agentcan be awise investment."
–DrAngel Zhong is an AssociateProfessor of Finance, specialising in global financial markets, behaviour and trends.
Thegig’supfor gigeconomy
Workersparticipating in the gig economy could be in fora shock tax bill this year,says Australia’s largest accounting body,CPA Australia. Income generated from side-hustles has become amajor focus forthe Australian TaxOffice, withdigital serviceplatforms now legally required to report theincome earned by their usersunder the Sharing EconomyReporting Regime. CPAAustralia tax lead Jenny Wong says anyone who has earned money through platforms suchasUberEats, Airtasker,YouTube and OnlyFans and does not report and paytax on these amountsontheir tax return risks an amended return, extratax bill and possible penalties.
“The Sharing EconomyReporting Regime is expanding this financial year,meaning the ATOwill be awareofany income youhave received through these types of gig economy platforms,”she said.
“This brings them into line with other third parties thatalready provide the ATOwiththe data it uses to pre-fill tax returns, including banks.
“Until this year,individuals have been required to self-declarethe income from their side-hustles. Nownothing will go under the radar.Ifyou deliverfood withDoorDash, work some casual jobs through Airtasker, or makecontent forPatreon, YouTube or OnlyFans, these sites arenow reporting your
earnings to thetax office
"These rules apply to abroad rangeof services, notjustthe most well-known. If you use awebsitetorentout acar parking space or your designer handbag, this income will be recorded, and you’ll need to paytax.”
Ms Wong says individuals who have enjoyedastrongyear of earning activity through sites suchasYouTube and OnlyFans could be in forthe biggest shock.
Shealso reminds influencersspecifically of their obligations to declareany gifts and gratuities received as aform of payment.
“You must paytax on income youearn above the tax-freethreshold of $18,200,”she said. “So, if you’vehad asuccessful year earning moneythrough advertising revenue and streaming subscriptions, as well as through gifts and gratuities, theATO will be expecting youtocough up.Yes, this even includes free cars, holidays,clothes and anything else you’relucky enough to receiveasaform of payment.
“Depending on howmuchyou’veearned during the year,thiscould be asignificant amount, maybe even tens of thousands of dollars.”
Ms Wong says the expansion of the SERR helps resolvethe ATO’schallengeofdealing with the gig economyand ensuring that Australians fulfil their tax obligations. The
data-matching regime started in July 2023 with platforms such as Airbnb, but has now expanded to include amuchbroader rangeof activities, likecontent creators
"The currentlevel of tax compliancefrom digital economyusers has largely been a mystery,” she said. “Though peoplemight notconsider earnings from digital platforms as income in the sameway as their regular job, it is all viewedthe sameway by the ATO. Chances arethatmanypeople have simply notbeen declaring this income at taxtime.
That allchanges now.”
CPAAustralia’s tips forgig economyworkers:
•Declareall income: Ensurethatall earnings arereported in your tax return,regardless of theamountorfrequency.This includes gifts and gratuities.
•Maintain accuraterecords: Keep detailed recordsofincome and expenses to support your deduction claims.
•Understand your obligations: Familiarise yourself with your tax requirements, including ABN registration and GSTobligations if applicable.
•Seek professional advice: Consider consulting aprofessional tax agentlikea CPAto navigate your tax affairsand ensurecompliance.
What expenses can gig economyworkers claim?
Australians working in the gig economy maybeentitled to claimsome work-related expenses, but only if theyare directly linked to the income they’ve earned, theyhavenot been reimbursed, and theyhaveaproof of the purchase. Examples include:
•Work from home expenses: Such as phone, internetand energy costs.
•Travelcosts: Thecost of travel between work locations could be deductible.
•Motor vehicle expenses: Delivery driverscould claim forfuel, repairsand other expenses, butmust identify the percentage used forbusiness purposes.
•Tools of the trade:For example, avideo camera, editing softwareand professional lighting. This must only be forbusiness use, notprivate
Forwork from homedeductions,the revised fixed rate method allows youtoclaim
Crimeintensifies
Crime in the Macedon Ranges has risen by more than 30 per cent according to the latest data released from the Crime Statistics Agency.Itreflects astate-wide trend of increased crime.
Kynetonrecorded the highest crime rateacross the entireregion with 705 offences, up from 446 offences the previous year.Gisborne recorded 517 offences, the second-highest in theregion, up from 448 the previous year,and comesamid an ongoing petition from Gisborne residents to have their policestation manned 24 hours. Riddells Creek recorded the lowest ratesof crime with167 offences.
In the Macedon Ranges, the predominant crime wasillegal entries into residential homes, with 912 offences recorded.
BobHill, Victoria Police Deputy Commissioner,saidyouth offendersagedbetween 14-17 were responsible forthe rise in household burglaries across the state,asthe number of child offendersreached itshighest levelinthree decades.
"Beassured thatpoliceare arresting the state's worstyoung offendersagain and again -youth gang members, child car thieves, and underageburglarswerearrested 3400 times last year," Hill said.
PoliceInspector DanDavison told aforum earlier this year thatwhile 27.9 per cent of alloffenders[in the region]wereyouth, theyweren't necessarily living locally
“Wetend to getaninfluxofyouth crime from metroareas or from further up north,” he said.
School’sOut at CTC
Castlemaine TheatreCompanyisholding aSilentDisco‘Fun-Raiser’ at its Etty Street Studio this Saturday.
Housed in an old school famous forits classic brutalist architectureand ol’ skool Harry Potter graffiti, the theme is 'School'sOut'!
Relivethe joys in your old school uniform, or reinvent your ideal school uniform and school experience!
Featuring crazy themed activities from special guests, Castlemaine's very owniconic silentdiscocollectiveD-TOUR; special guest DJ playlists throughout the evening made up of the secretraversonthe CTCcommittee and productionteam, plus headline boss DJs; super-snuggy chill outzone; Dirty Tuck Shop featuring the chemistry teacher’sMidwinter Mull, and school-themed movies in the principal’s office.
CTCmembersare holding this special eventinaddition to thei regular theatre-making activities because they want to givetheir home some extralove
CTCpresidentKateStones said the Etty Street sitehad had such an amazing positive impact on their little company.
"Having aplacetofinally call home has changedour lives. Ahugethank youtoCastlemaine HotRods fortaking on the lease from MASC, and making this spaceavailable to communitygroupslikeCTC and MovementZone,"Katesaid.
Allthe profit from School'sOut will go towardsupkeep and improvementofEtty Street
School'sOut Silent Discowill kick offat8pm andrun until1am at CTC’sEtty Street Studio, Upstairs at 35 Etty St (‘Autoplex’)
Tickets$25 from Trybooking www.trybooking.com/DBYWSfor this18+ event.
Dance, drama andlanterns Daannce, draamma a annd laannterrnns
This July,Overthe Moon Studio invites young dancersto step into aworld of colour,creativity and connection forits much-lovedannual Winter School, running from Monday to Wednesday, July 7to9
Over the Moon has long been acherished part of the Castlemaine community –a yoga and dancelearning space witha focus on wellbeing, imagination and the joyofmovement.
Originally founded by the esteemed educator, Edna Reinhardt, and nowunder the co-directorship of Marlena Raymond and Michelle Young, thestudioisa place where community membersofall ages grow notonlyasdancers, but as creative, confidentand compassionate individuals.
The2025 Winter School is forchildren aged 3.5 to 12 years, offering aplayful and immersiveexperienceacross one, twoorall three days
With age-specific groupsand classes in creativedanceand yoga, musical theatre, drama, music,junior ballet, jazz and lantern-making, each dayisa carefully curated experience for the body,heart and mind.
AhighlightofWinterSchoolisits intergenerational aspect: local teens will be leading the wayatWinterSchool. These teen dancersare part of Over the Moon’s long-standing class assistantprogram, aleadership programwhereolder dancers receivementorship from teaching staff in their support of younger dancers. This mentorship model fostersa vibrant studio cultureofleadership, strengthening peer bonds and creating apowerful sense of continuity –wherethe older dancersleadbyexample, younger dancersfind inspiration in those who area fewsteps ahead, and dancersofall ages feel valued, connected and inspired.
This year brings something especially enchanting –lantern making! Guided by guest artists Iona Julian-Waltersand Opal (ofNaarm/Melbourne-based companyGolden Scissor Puppets), students will crafttheir ownglowing creations, culminating in amagical lantern walk through the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens on the evening of WednesdayJuly 9. Families
The2025 Winter School offers aplayful and immersiveexperience.
and friends arewarmly invited to join the procession –the morethe merrier,and don’t forget your singing voice!
Theteaching team this year includes avibrantblend of familiar and newfaces. Desiree Osborne joins as Over theMoon’s very first drama teacher,withover30yearsof teaching experience in the performing arts. Amber Riches will lead dynamic danceclasses,bringing her passion for inclusivity.Joyful, Orff Schulwerk music classes will be run by co-director Marlena Raymond –you will be singing these songs all evening in the lantern walk, and beyond! Andofcourse, founder Edna Reinhardt will be teaching her
renowned yoga and creativedanceclasses
Whether your child is trying dancefor the first time or staying connected to theircreativity over theschool holidays,WinterSchool offers ajoyful, screen-free spaceto move,makeand imagine –all while staying connected with peers.
Pricing starts from $40, with discounts available for multi-daybookings.
Bookings arenow open at www.overthemoonstudio. com. Be quick– places will fill fast forthis much-anticipated community offering!
Market offersnourishment this Saturday
TheLancefield and District Farmers Market is on again this Saturday– apopular meeting placefor locals, visitorsand touriststothe region.
Gather at the centralplantation of High Street andselect from 85 local and regional producersoffresh produce, regeneratively farmed meats, quality preserves, sourdough, Frenchpastries, slices, dairy, free rangeeggsand so on
This market welcomes Kellie Smith from MixerMagic –deliciousmacaroons produced in Axedale, filling in while a seasonal producer is taking their annual break. Kellie lovestrading her 12 different flavoursatthe marketseachweek.
"The best parts about the farmers marketsisbeing able to socialise withthe customersand other stallholders,"she says Poultry fanciersare encouraged to get along to themarketthis Saturdayfor their
heritagebreeds before Cheryl takes some personal time away from themarkets.
Crossies Cados is also returning with newseason's avocados and wintercitrus –mandarins and lemons.
This market features livemusic at east and west ends, including Jarrod Shaw (blues)and TheSunsets (favourites) along withglobal flavoursinthe market fare selection. Seating is available.
Shoppersare encouraged to bring their ownkeep cupsfor hotdrinks, knee rugs, shopping bags and refillable containersfor mussel purchases.
Established by the Lancefield Neighbourhood House, this market brings local and regional producerstogether to provide atrue regional showcase of locally produced foodsand to connect thecommunity with those producers in amutually beneficial arrangementevery month of the year,rain hail or shine.
Celebration of sport on exhibition
Good Sports: Leisureand Recreation is anew Kyneton Museum exhibition that explores role of sport, leisureand recreationinshaping local identity and community.
Theexhibition features contributions from localsportinggroups and highlights themes of inclusion,evolution of recreational spaces, andsocialimpactofsport across generations andcultures.
MayorDom Bonanno officially launchedehibition last month and said it wasa "morethan nostalgic lookatour sporting past"
"It’sa reflectiononhow we move,connect and build identity,fromgrassroots clubstonational icons,"hesaid.
"Eventslikethis showthe strength of ourcommunity. Ihope visitorsleave feeling inspired andmaybe evenready to dustoff their running shoes."
Theexhibition invites visitorstoconsider howsport has contributedand shapedour culture. It celebratesparticipation, communityand thevalues of fairness,respectand belonging.
Theexhibition is openFriday to Sunday,11am to 4pm, at KynetonMuseum(67 Piper Street). Fordetails, visit:mrsc.vic.gov.au/Kyneton-Museum
This Saturday, June 28 Lancefield &District
9amto1pm
TheLancefield &District Farmers Market is an initiativeofthe Lancefield Neighbourhood House -creatinga vitaland beautiful trading spacefor local producers since2003. We thankall of our local shoppers and producers who keep this market fabulous all through the year!See youSaturdayfolks!
FollowusonFacebook and Instagram
High Street, Lancefield Ph: Meggs 0493452 757
Themarket brings localand regional producers together to provide atrue regional showcase of locally produced foods
Photo: Jason Hagan, McIvor Farm Foods
@ Y YourOPINIONS
Save ourchurch
Anonymous, Riddells Creek
Iwould liketobring to people's attention that we areslowlylosing our heritagebuildings. Theprepared sale of our country church is another example of greed ('For sale: TheChurch of England', Midland Express,June 10). It appearsthatthe particular minister and his parish council arewilling to sacrificefor the sakeofgreed. Iwould hope an order of heritage overlaycouldprevail to save it and preventdevelopment. It seems the concerns of town-folk and maintaining whatisalovelyhistorical churchdoes notmeananything to this so called churchhierarchy. Let'sstand up and stop this from going ahead. NotonlyRiddell but their Op Shop in Gisborne. I am unwilling to sign forfear of repercussions from them. Save our church.
Keep it as ahub
BarryThomson, CampbellsCreek
To the peopleofRiddells Creekand surrounds. Your community assets areslowlydrifting off into privatehands. If youare concerned about this drift, come together and takecontrol of your assets. Thehistoric church in your town could go under the hammerinthe near future. Youcan come together and develop aconceptthatcan recognise it as ahub of community inspiration forlove,careand
Writers areasked to keep letters to amaximum of 300 words. Longer letters may only be published at the editor's discretion. Names, addresses and contact phone numbers must be included for verification purposes. Email letters to: acrawford@midnews.com.au
Local knowledge (1 point)
1. Whowas the firsfootballer to reach a 300 game milestone forWoodend-HesketFootball NetballClub?
2. In which Macedon Ranges town is ‘Kellie Duff Court’ located?
3. Thefollowing streets exist in which local town: Beauchamp, Bayntonand Wedge?
4. What coloursrepresentthe Castlemaine Football NetballClub? (3 points)
5. Howmanybotanical gardens does MountAlexander Shirehave?
General knowledge (1 point)
6. To which Hogwarts house did Draco Malfoy belong in J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series?Bonus point: who were histwo ‘cronies’?
7. British television series TwoFat Ladies focused on what?
8. Whowon the 2011 AFL grand final?
9. To which section of an orchestrawould an oboe belong? (3 points)
10. Which Australian artist is
for their 1946-47 NedKelly series?
kindness; social sustainability and cohesion.
Youhaveanexample of aviable process just up the road in Castlemaine. This washighlightedin the same issue of the Express thathighlightedthe possibility of the sale into privatehands of Riddell's St John's AnglicanChurch.
Read the article on page4 of last week's Express TheHub foundation has developed itsapproach based on an example used in the Barossa Valley and has been successful nowfor somewherenear 40 or 50 years. Ourcommunities surviveoncooperation, collaboration and caring forone another Honouring ancestorsand caring forcountry,are well and truly in the mix thesedays
Go foritRiddell (it will only takeone of youto getthe Ball rolling).
PS. Keep it: and leave it as aphilosophical and financial assettoyour children /grandchildren.
Laptops for Vietnam
John Herron, Riddells Creek
An update forour drivefor used laptops and electronic equipmentfor Vietnam. Over thepast18months, thepeopleofthe Macedon Ranges have been exceedingly generous in donating used laptops to Vietnam.These have been dropped offtoHoi An andHCMCwherethey arerefurbished and distributed to those in need. Theimpact has been incredible and the recipients –Anne andHa– wantedmetopassontheir gratitude foryourkind efforts. theyare very movedbyhow people can go out of theirway and donate. Thestories andimpacts on people Ihaveheardwould move youaswell. Iammaking afurther trip soon and if youhave anysparelaptops,ipadsand old smartphones, please drop them off. Ihavemoved on from Ranges Legal and nowoperateatAitkenStreetFamily Law in Gisborne, next to the icecream shop
Congregation has declined
Chris Clark,parishioner since 1982
In response to thefront page item Midland Express TuesdayJune 10, 'For sale: TheChurch of England'
Some of the information given by John Ball is notcorrect
It is notthe Church of England, and hasn’t been since1981 when it officially becamethe Anglican Church of Australia.
As of this momentintimethe church has definitely notbeen putupfor sale. Iquestion the fact that John wasanhonorary caretaker of the grounds, as thatwas done by aparishioner
Theland upon which the church sits wasnot donatedbyJohn CarreRiddell, the land John Riddell donatedwas on the other side of the railway line where the church stood before being movedtoits presentsite.
Ican assure your readers, the ChurchCouncil will, when and if this comes to pass,besensitivetothe removalofall gifts to thechurch andashes of lovedones.
Unfortunately the congregation has declined of late because we areanageing group of people and manybeforeushavepassed on. Thereare no young people taking their place.
Perhaps John Ball andRobyn Godfrey could start a‘go fund me page’tomove the church to another site, e.g. the cemetery wherethe community could make use of it forfunerals, again –shouldthe selling of the propertycome to pass.
Lastly,isJohn Ball upset because of its historic value or the thoughtofa possible developmentonhis doorstep?
Hepburn Shireisonlifesupport
Ian Goudie, Trentham
Whatever youthink about assisted dying forpeople, HepburnShireCouncil should be allowedtodie withdignity.Put out of its misery
They can still pickupthe garbage, do some road work, but theyare not doing other things thatneedtobedone. Oneofthese is called Statutory Planning.
If youneed to makea changetoyourproperty, youapply fora permit. You wait formonths, and months. Andthen moremonths.
This can be solved quickly.Itneeds performancemanagement. They complain about lack of money, but really whatisneeded is competence.The ability to getthe importantthings done.
On the internetyou will find 'Know Your Council'.Itshows the performanceofyour council compared with theother 56 councilsinVictoria. A fewyears agoHepburn came near the topfor planning. Nowitisnear the bottom.
Theshort-termsolution is to getsomeone in theretoclear out the planning backlog.
Thelonger term solution is thatHepburn Shireistoo small to be viable. It needs to be broken up and the pieces added on to biggershires.
HepburnShireRIP
Are youreally up forit?
TrevorScott, Castlemaine
Dear Lisa ChestersMP, in response to my open letter to thePM(Opinions, June 10) yousay youare “up forthe challenge” but areyou andLabor really up forit?
Yousay,“the decision-making scope forthis project wasnarrow and only relatedtoimpacts protected under the EPBC Act-inthis case, the impact on the Murujuga rock art.”You go on to saythat“these requirements arein accordancewith thelaw”but arethey?
TheUnited Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) “affirms the rightofIndigenous peoples to maintain, protect and develop their cultural heritage”.Are yousaying that theEnvironment Minister is acting in accordancewiththislaw,because it certainly doesn’t look likeit.
Youalso say“We arecommitted to NetZeroCarbon Pollution by 2050” Please tell me howthis canpossibly beachievedifthe EnvironmentMinister, Murray Watt extendsWoodside’slicencetoextract gas by 50 yearsto 2070?
Giventhatthe “SafetyMechanism”has already been proven to be ineffectiveand carbon sequestration is unprovenovera long period of time, this simply cannotbeachieved.
WhyonEarth is Labor opening up newcoal and gas if,asyou say, it’son track for82per cent renewable energy in our powersupply by 2030?
YesLisa, Iamdefinitely up forthis challenge, but youwill have to do alot moretoconvincemethatyou are.
Adisappointing view
Grant Taylor,Malmsbury
Clearly IanBraybrook of Castlemaine ('Named in honour', Opinions,June 17) is notaware that"our servicemen and women of World WarI"included Indigenous folk who joined up, fought, survived and returned to Australia. Nottoa country's thanks, but to alifethatexisted prior to the war. Kept in their placeonmissions and low-paid jobs, if paid at all, or on thecattle stations largely handed out fora pittance by the colonial governments of the 19th century.
Adisappointing viewinthe least
Hats offtoPowercor
ShaneMcConville,Kyneton
It wasgreat to see Powercor on thefront foot again, painting overthe senseless tags that appear on poles and powerboxesinKyneton. It wouldbegreat to see other instrumentalities cleaning up tags as they appear.Theyappear on KynetonTownHall, KynetonBotanical Gardens, post boxes, public seating, signs, sides of buildings, fences, windows,surfaces throughoutthe town. Well done again Powercor
HappyBirthday Birthday Birthday Club
Covering the Macedon Ranges and MountAlexander Shires
Youmay have heardof‘ThePub Test’, aconceptual check of apolitical idea with people down thepub. Youmighthavealso heardof‘TheSniff Test’,anindicatorthat an idea mightbe‘off’ or ‘onthe nose’.
MONDAY,
Todaywe’re asking “does your compost pile pass the PubSniff Test?”
Mikaela Beckley, YIMBYorganiser and composter extraordinaire, says ”Weknow acomposter is doing afantastic job when we help them turn afull cubic metreof compost and can go straightfromthatto acaféorpub and notneed to change our clothes, or risk being social outcasts!”
It’s true. Thereare composts thatare made so well thattheydon’t smell bad, even when we open them up and give them aturn. So, whatfactorslead to a compost pile passing or failing the Pub Sniff Test?
It is common forfood scraps to stink, especially if left in abucket awhile before being composted. Butwhen those same stinky ingredients arebalanced with autumn leaves, straw andchopped up woody garden prunings, built up in thin alternating layers,those offensivesmells go away
It is notthata well-made compost pile hasnosmell at all, it is just thatitsmells morelike‘cooked food’or‘moist forest floor’ than something we want to runa million miles from.
Badsmells areindicators thatsomething is notgoing well. Smells, likerotting citrus or vomit, usuallyindicate our compost is too nitrogen-rich and needs agood blending of carbon-rich ingredi-
ents (see above). In very high nitrogen composts, ammonia (a sharp, distinctly medicinal smelling gas)will be given off, as well as nitrous oxide (anextremely potent greenhouse gas). These gasses letusknownitrogen is being lost from thepile, leaving our compost less nutrientrich, and less valuable when we use it on the garden. Thereis morethanone reason don’t want stinky compost piles!
When our compost smells likethe mud at the bottom of adam, or poo, our compost is probably anaerobic (very low in oxygen)and is likely producing methane, also apotentgreenhouse gas. Heavy, over-wetcompost pileslackthe space foroxygentoenter the middle of the pile and forcarbon dioxide to escape, leaving our beneficial aerobic microbes struggling to breathe and conditions favouring the anaerobes.
Adding enough ‘structure’ (aerating woody materials)through thepile and particularly in the bottom third, should keep ourcompost oxygenated forthe whole process and muchhappier
Making much less stinky compostis notthathard, it just takesalittle care to getthe balanceright. Perhaps your compost canpass thePub Sniff Test.
–Joel Meadows works with *Yes In My Back Yard,(YIMBY), acommunity-scale composting initiativeinCastlemaine and surrounds. Send questions or comments to hello@yimbycompost.com, or to book in fora compost workshop.
Ilka and Astrid confirm Joel passed the ‘Pub Sniff Test’ after turning acompost in the same clothes only an hour earlier!
MIDLAND Property &Living
North-facing living areas
Brilliantly located just ashort distance from schools, the PiperStreetfoodie precinct and theKyneton shopping centre, is this low-maintenance brick townhouse. Internally,this home features three bedrooms of agenerous size.
Themaster has an ensuiteand walk-inrobe while the remaining bedroom has abuilt-inrobe plus acentral main bathroom with abath)
Theopen-plan kitchen, meals and living area enjoyplenty of north naturallightwith views to Post OfficeCreek.
Thekitchen withstainless-steel gas hotplates, an electric oven, and an essential dishwasher,there areplentyofcupboards and bench spacewith acorner pantry
Externally,thispropertyoffersalow-maintenancegarden and asingle lock-upgaragewith internal access. Other features of this home include gas centralheating and areverse cycle split system.
This home is in aquietlocation with views of open vacant land.
Property: Low-maintenancebrick townhouse
Address: 1/79-81Powlett Street,Kyneton
Price: $695,000
Agent: Raineand Horne Kyneton
Contact: Jennifer Pearce 0427 422 508
Victoriancharm meets moderncomfort
Step into 'Halcyon', аbeautifully preserved and thoughtfully updatedVictorian residencethatcombines period charm with contemporary convenience. This elegant home features expansive, light-filled interiors and charming garden vistas from every room, creating an inviting and serene atmosphere throughout.
From the wide entry hall adorned with pressed metal ceilings and dado panels, to the graciousfront sitting room with an open fireplace, every detail reflectsquality and care. Thegenerous kitchen/family area is аmodern delight, boasting аnewly fitted kitchen with premium appliances, аgas log fire, and an adjacentformal dining room perfect forentertaining.
Offering three well-sized bedrooms –including аsecond with built-in robes and а
thirdwithdirect ассеѕѕ to theгеаг verandah –the layout is both functional and flexible. А modern bathroom with stepless showerand аvestibule leading to аspacious, sheltered rear deck complete the indoor living ѕрасеѕ, enhancing the home's appeal forrelaxed indoor-outdoor living.
Outside, immaculate landscaped gardens featurestone retaining walls, flowering beds, maturetrees and lush lawn areas. Additional highlights include аlarge carport, secure workshop, ample water storageand excellent fencing forprivacy and security.Modern comforts include ducted heating and cooling, solar hotwater with gas backup, and аlayout ready forimmediate enjoyment. 'Halcyon' is аrareopportunity to secureаbeautifully maintained home withhistoric eleganceand everydaypracticality
Panoramic Views -Luxury Living Meets Country Charm
Set in one of Gisborne’smost covetedhillside enclaves, 2Pindara Place offers an exceptional blend of high-end contemporaryliving withthe peace and appeal of acountrylifestyle. Nestled on an impressive1251m² (approx.) allotment, this architecturally designed residence captures breathtaking panoramic views across thehistoric Gisborne township, stretching all theway to Mount Macedon and beyond. Completed in 2022, this sleek and stylish home presents as ashowcase of modern minimalist design,high-quality finishes, and seamlessindooroutdoor flow. Everyinch of this two-level home has been carefully considered to offer bothfunctional family living and refined luxury,creating an effortless sense of calm and sophistication from themoment youenter
Stylish, spacious, and superbly located, this modern residence offers theperfect combination of contemporarydesign and relaxed countryliving. Set in a quiet, family-friendly street, just momentsfromparkland, theLancefield sporting precinct, and thevibrant town centre, this home is ideal forthose seeking bothcomfort and convenience.
JasonWoodford-Smith 0478000 441
3Bed 2Bath2Car
ForSale $630,000 -$660,000
View Saturday28thJune 10:45am -11:15am
Kyneton 5422 2678 rh.com.au/kyneton
5/3 Hamilton Street, Gisborne
Recently renovated and offeringapeaceful position in theheartofGisborne town centre, this one-bedroom villa unit represents an unmissable opportunity for downsizers, investors, or professionals seeking an easy-carelifestyle. Ideally located just ashortstroll from Gisborne’svibrant caféscene, boutique shopping, supermarkets, medical centres, leisurefacilities, and the stunning botanical gardens.
Set high on just under fiveacres (4.87 acres), the home embraces its elevatedposition with sweeping views across undulating farmland and ever-changing skies. Wrapped in timeless zincalumeand designed by its owner builder,thisisaresidencethathonours the Australian landscape while offering asanctuary fortruly connected living.
From the momentyou arrive, the outlook captivates, aconstantplayofcolour and light, from rainbowdrenched thunderstorms to glowing sunsets. It's aplace to breathe deeply,pause and simply be. Yetbeyond its natural beauty,thisisa home designed forreal life; thoughtful, functional and flexible.
Cleverly designed overtwo levels, the home accommodatesa variety of living arrangements, whether it'sagrowing family,multigenerational setup, entertainers, or those considering ashort stayrental. Thereare fivespacious bedrooms in total with three upstairs and twodownstairs, served by three bathrooms and multiple living zones.
Themaster suiteisa haven, with its ownwalk in robe and privateensuite. Thetwo additional bedrooms upstairssharea second ensuitestyle bathroom, ideal forkids or guests. Every bedroom features asplit system, and with full insulation between all internal walls plussolid 32mm MDF doors, peaceand quietare assured.
At the heart of the home is the sun-drenched open-plan living and dining zone.Its northern orientation and laminatedglass glazing flood the spacewith natural light, while asolid fuel fireplace brings warmth and ambience. Glasssliding doors open seamlessly to thewide entertaining deck,
Property: Ruralretreat on 4.87 acres
Address: 29 Valley Road, MiaMia
Price: $1,395,000 –$1,530,000
Agent: RayWhiteKyneton
Contact: Tamara Mactier 0429
Thekitchen is as stylish as it is practical, with stone benchtops, agas cooktop, dishwasher and plenty of storage. Downstairs, asecond fully equipped kitchen with induction cooktopmakes the lowerlevel entirely self contained, perfect forolder children, in laws,orholidayguests.
Step outside to theexpansivedeck and takein the uninterruptedviews;this is wherethe outdoors becomes apart of everydaylife. Mornings watching kangaroos in the paddocks, evenings with aglass in hand under apaintedsky,the spaceencourages slow, intentional living.
Forthose who love to entertain, the 7.5 metre magnesiumheatedpool with UV protectiveawning offers year round enjoyment, while the wood-fired pizza ovenand outdoor bar setthe stagefor long, relaxed gatherings with friends and family
Practicalityhas notbeen overlooked. Amassive 8.8 metreby17.7 metremachinery shed and workshop with 4.2 metreclearance, concrete slab (rated to 2.5 tonnes), dual sliding doorsand power connected offers adream setupfor trades, storage or ahomebusiness, all with excellentvehicle access.
Additional features include 24 solar panels (6.6kWsystem),75,000L of rainwaterstorage,a bore(84m deep)withpump setup, watertreatment systemwiththree tanks, serviced twiceyearly, SkyMesh satelliteinternetwith rooftopextender, laminatedglass forthermal efficiency,earthwool insulation in all walls (internal and external), power and solar hotwater,wheelchair-friendly,ensuring comfort and access forall.
Thepropertyalsoboasts established orchards featuring pink lady and grannysmithapples, nashis, nectarines, peaches, almonds, olives, figs and pomegranates.
Madigans Road,
Abiodiverse sanctuary that feels worlds away yet is just minutes from Chewton and an easy 7km drive to the heart of Castlemaine. This two-bedroom, off-grid stone home was hand-built by amaster stonemason. Inspired by the techniques of Frank Lloyd Wright, the extraordinary bookleafstonework is hand-shaped and laid with intent.
Set in an enviable elevated position near the Burke and Wills Monument, this stunning mid-century home offers arareblend of architectural character, breathtaking outlooks, and lifestyle convenience.On agenerous 1234 sqm (approx), just moments from Castlemaine’stown centreand metres from the bushland beauty of Kalimna Park.
Private Off-Grid Retreat 85 Pound Lane, Newstead Set on aquintessential country road lined with majestic ancient gums, this unique three-bedroom off-grid home on 4.94 acres (approx) offers the perfect blend of sustainable living, privacy,and connection to nature, just minutesfromthe vibrant community of Newstead.
$775,000
View Saturday 28 June 1:15pm-1:45pm
Contact Megan Walmsley 0411 043 324
$865,000
View
Saturday 28 June 11:30am-12:00pm
Peaceful Living &Perfectly Positioned
55 Moscript Street, Campbells Creek
Tucked away in aquiet pocket of Campbells Creek and just minutes from the heart of Castlemaine, this well-presented four-bedroom sandstone home on agenerous 1089 sqm (approx) offers easy,relaxed living in apeaceful setting. At the rear,the lowmaintenance terraced garden and paved alfresco space invite you to unwind and entertain.
$775,000
View
Saturday 28 June
11:30am-11:50am Contact
Bottomley 0433 772 033
Victorian Cottage with Mid-Century
20 Brown Street, Castlemaine In one of Castlemaine’smost desirable locations, this two-bedroom Victorian cottage offers period
amid-century addition, and exciting potential on adeep 1287 sqm (approx) allotment. The generous block provides sweeping views across the surroundinglandscape and arareopportunity to renovate, extend, or subdivide (STCA). $535,000
and with brand-new carpet throughout, this well-maintained four-bedroom home is immaculately presented and ready for its next chapter.Whether you areupsizing, making a move, or searching for ahome to make your own, this property offers asolid foundation and arelaxed lifestyle.
or
MIDLAND Property &Living
1940s character,comfort and solar smarts
Set quietly behind abrick fenceand framed by original stone-edged gardens alivewith nativebirdlife, this circa 1940 double-fronted timber home offers awarm and welcoming retreatjust minutes from Castlemaine's town conveniences. With aleafy presenceonacorner allotmentand access from both Kaweka Street and the main frontage, the home offers period character and modern updates, making it ideal forthose seeking charm and practical liveability
Thehome's solid timber construction is complementedbyinsulation to theceiling, walls, and floors, plus arecently repointedroofand a5.92kWsolar system- delivering long-term comfort and energy efficiency. Asunny glass-door entry opens to polished timber floors, high ceilings and generously sized rooms, all steeped in original details and naturallight.
At the front, aspaciousformal loungeroom is rich in character,with frenchdoorsopening to astonetrimmed balcony, leadlightwindows,a gently curved fireplaceand deep timber sills. Furtherin, thelarge, original kitchen-meals area speaks to family gatherings and long, slowbreakfasts, featuring aNectrewood fire, gas cooker,dishwasher and eastern aspect. Threebedrooms arewell proportioned, withthe main enjoying garden outlooks through large win-
dows,built-in robes and its ownsplit system. Acentral bedroom or study offers flexibility forwork-from-home needs, while thethird bedroom includes robes and soft carpetunderfoot. Themain bathroom features pressed metal walls, apedestal basin, toiletand shower, while asecond toiletislocatednear the fulllaundry andrear vestibule/mudroom-keeping practicalities covered.
Thehome is climate controlled withthree split systems, evaporativecooling and the added warmth of wood heating.
At the rear,the original garagehas been converted into astudio space-ideal forart,music, remote work or simply extrastorage.With side access via Kaweka Street,it'sa valuable addition withscope forfurther use.
Outside, the garden is established and low-maintenance, bordered by original stone walls and rich with natives thatattract local birds throughoutthe seasons
Ideally locatedwithin walking distancetothe Botanical Gardens, Kaweka Sanctuary,Golf Club, and popular local spots likeFireBean Coffee, JohnnyBaker Uptown, and the Northern Arts Hotel. Zoned to thesoughtafterCastlemaine North Primary School and close to Castlemaine Secondary College, it offers both lifestyle and convenience.
Property: Double-frontedtimber home in centrallocation
The members of Tylden Fire Brigade are saddened by the passing of and extendour deepest condolencestothe
DOYLE –Bonnie (Beverely Emily)
Passed peacefully on June 16th, aged 90. Atrue friend never forgotten. Greatly missing our visits and chats already Our days will never be the same.The laughs and banter we had was infectious and that smirky grin –Well!!
Finally relieved from all your pain.
Reunited with your Mum. Rest in Peace Bonnie Forever in our hearts -Heather and fur babies.
MUIR
Edward James(Jim)
Passed away 18th June 2025.
MUIR Edward James (Jim)
Passed away on the 18th June 2025
Loving husband of Shirley Adored father and father inlaw of Susan and Brian, Tony and Mia Cherished grandfather ofAllan and Klare, Brittany and Sharni. Great grandfather of Lily,Ryder and Hunter Always loved, Never forgotten, Forever missed.
WYBAR
Irene Gladys (Aunty I)
Will be greatly missed by all who knewher Such awarm, loving and caring woman. Our deepest sympathies to Glen andKris. -Brendan and Hadley
Deaths/Funerals
TAYLOR -Estelle
26.6.1929-15.6.2025
It is with deep sadness that we announcethe loss of our beautifulEstelle, alegend if ever there was one. Mum left us at 1:10am on 15th June
who we hope hadthe roses ed.
KN284802/L
MUIR -Jim
Jim passed away this week.
Loved brother of Pat, brother in law of Peter and uncle to our sons. Jim worked hard in his younger days but had no enemies. Rest in peace Jim.
The you to join them for aservice to farewell Estelle at the Tylden Uniting Church, 18Trentham Road,Tylden, on THURSDAY 26th June 2025 at 11am, followed by a celebration for her theTylden Hall.
BLOOMFIELD (née Harrison) Margaret Jean Born 1st January 1935 Sadly passed away on 17th June
Loving Mother to David, Colin, Raymond, Loving Mother-in-law to Jenny,Carol, Karen, Marion, Leighann and Paul. Loving Grandmother and Great Grandmother
Passed away at Ellery House on14th June 2025 aged 82 years
Uncle Joe’sextendedwhanau from Australia andAotearoa remember him
Ellery House for their care. Abest friend, rock and support to Alby Vickers– the Vickersfamily
Prayers will be held in the Chapel of MountAlexander Funerals for Joe on Friday 27th June at 11.30am. Aprivate cremation will be held.
HALLORAN –Gerard Patrick
Passed away peacefully in his sleep at home on 12th of June 2025, aged 79 years. Loving father of Mark and Pamela.
Beloved grandfather of Ella, Xavier and Jack.
Brother to Daniel, Caroline,Ann and the twins Patricia and Ellen.
Gerard was athird-generation farmer who ran asuccessfulsheep and cattle farm in the Kyneton area.
He was much loved and will be greatly missed by all. Requiescat in pace.
For funeral details for Gerard,please refer to: www.tjscottandson.com.au and check his tribute page.
KN284788/L
Loving Wife of Chris Loved Mumof Monique&Scott Foxall; Amanda &Mick Loving Nan to Jake &Phoebe;Joshua&Nate. Great Nan to Alexander, Ruby,Tarlen &Eliza Foreverinour hearts
In accordance with Gail’sw is h aPrivate Funeral ha sbeen held
KN284765/L
WYBAR (S imms)-Irene
4.7.1941
Wife of
Loved brother, brother in law and uncle to Mary,Harold (dec) and family Gone but not forgotten. Agentle soul now at rest. Xx KN284738/L
KN284793/L
MUIR -Jim (Edward James)
16.9.1937 -18.6.2025
Loved brother and brother-in-law of Kevin &Kath (Dec), Uncle of Peter, Lynette, Colleen, Julie, Wendy (Dec),Trevor, Brian &their families.
Quietly lived and will be quietly missed. Forever in our hearts RIP
KN284792/L
Bereavement Thanks
We to thankeverybody for coming to Shirley’sfuneral. Also for cards, phone calls and kind thoughts.
Much appreciated
From Carole and Lindsay
KN284791/L
LYON -Lorna Ellen
7.01.1935-11.06.2025
Passed suddenly but peacefully at RMH surrounded by family
Loved wife of Doug (dec). Mother,Mother-in-law and friend of Jeanette &Graeme, Gary &Kerrie, Craig &Kylie and Richard.
Grandmother and Nana of Sarah(dec), Lachlan, Melissa &Brett, Nicholas &Jessica, Jackson, Mitchell and Matthew
Great Grandma of Penelope &Margot and Harry RestinPeace Beautiful Lady
KN284763/L
Loving Mum of Derek, Kristine, Glenn& Maja
Loved Nan &Grandma to Braiden, Mi tc hell &Tess; Lleyton &Isa bella; Nigel& Emil y. GreatN an to Delta,T he odore& Alexander
In the garden of love, memories bloom
In accordance with Irene’sw is h Pr ivately Cremated
Joseph ‘Joe’Davis
KN284729/L
KN284773/L
KN284764/L
Peggy Shaw died on 16th June 2025 aged 103. Talented artist, needle woman
gardener
Castlemaine
Peggy Shaw
2013 VF Commodore
Sportwagon 3.6 Much loved car but now selling due to 3rd vehicle.245,000 kms 1OX 9SB, $10,500 ono Located in Gisborne ContactTristan 0450 251 088
Theautumn pennant season forthe Northern District CroquetAssociation is at the finals stage, and last week, the Grand Final forDivision 3was held on the super fast courts at Quarry Hill, Bendigo. This was neutral territory forbothcompeting teams, i.e. no home ground advantage. Kyneton Yellow(Margaret Parker and Deborah Bosman, filling in forregular Judy Aldred) took on the Maldonites (Rod Bennett and Gary Dykes) in an epic battle. Watched by an enthusiastic crowd,Kynetonwon the first doubles by aclosely fought7-5 hoops. In the singles, Bosman, who had neverplayed on the Quarry Hill courts before,wentdown to both the Maldon players,but Parker rightedthe ship forKyneton, winning both her games. Onewas an outstanding display of tenacity and neverconceding, with Parker coming back from 6-0 down to Dykesto takethe game7-6. Aremarkable comeback!
This left Kynetonahead by 3-2 games, but withbothteams having scored 28 hoops, the winner of the last doubles would win on hoops scored and takeout the trophy. In agamethatwenthoop-for-hoop, and lasted well over one hour,itall came down to 6-6 hoopsand whocould win that final 13th hoop.Talkabout pressure! After some greatcontributions by Bosman, Parker lined up ahoop shotfromoverthree metres
away,which rolled through the hoop forthe win. Congratulations to KynetonYellow, and well done to theMaldonites also, who were alwaystop contenders andplayedwith greatenthusiasm and grace. Truly afitting Grand Final.
Meanwhile, Division 1/2 teams played their last round to determine who will be in their Grand Final, to be playedalso at Quarry Hill next week. TheQHWattlebirds (Chris Eiffert and Gayle Deary)wereable to record another win,this time against Macedon's Mt Gisborne (PennyKrstevand Brenda Jackson), by 4-2 games. Mt.Gisborne didn't makeiteasy, with both Krstev andJackson winning asingles gameeach, but the QH pair came back to win the reversesingles and both doubles. That result ensured the Wattlebirds placeinthe Grand Final, playing against the QH Galahs (Bernie Lacey and Colin Scott).
Fighting it out forthirdplacewerethe Quarry Hill Ravens (Trevorand Julie Ware) versus KynetonBlue (Pat Fahy and Darryl Chivers).Kynetonlost atense first doubles 6-7 hoops, but Fahy struggled on the QH courts and in his singles went down to both the Wares7-3 and 7-5respectively.However,Chiversfound some greatform and wonbothhis singles games by 7-5 hoops. Kynetonstill had an outside chanceofa win
going into the final doubles, but the Wares were toogood, withexcellentpositioning and roqueting when required, and took thewin by 7-3 hoops. TheWares were the winnersofDivision3 in the last pennant, so this wasa very commendable result,having
stepped up into the higher Division 1/2. They aredefinitely athreatgoing forward. Congratulations to all the teams that made it into the Grand Finals, but especially to KynetonYellowfor pulling offsuch an epic win.
Making progress: This photo taken at Gisborne Golf Clublast week shows whatishappening with the re-build of the clubhouse, which was destroyed by fireonApril 17 lastyear. Thecrane is onsite, frames aregoing up and the steel is going in. Exciting times ahead Thenew clubhousedesign aims to integrate with the surrounding natural environment, and the project is expected to be completedand ready foruse in 2026
GISBORNE
Michael and William Ryan wonthe Bert and Doris Storey CuponSaturday. This special eventinthe club calendar pays tributetothe massiveamount of work, time and effort spentbythese two stalwarts of GGC.
On Thursday, John Wood, well he did, wonthe open stableford with 39 points.
Kevin Incigneri wonB-grade with 37 points, and Greg Schreiber topped C-grade with the day’sbest scoreof40.
KarenDillon wonthe women’s stablefordonWednesdaywith 35 points, and Louise had aBall taking out B-grade with 37 points.
Thewinning pair wasChris Milham (21) and Harvey Zepnick(12) with 46 points. They finished twoclear of Jakoby Noulton(45) and Tayler Walsh(15), who wona three-way countback forsecond place. Milham and PeterVerlaan were NTPs
Theearly 9@9 stableford sawthe first drives disappear into the fog. Experiencepaid off, withKevin Adams (20) finishing with 17 points, andJane Anderson (30) wasrunner-up on 15.
Asmall group of ladies braved the cold
Town &District
GOLF results
in Tuesday'spar event.
Marie Louise Fitzpatrick (22) led throughouttofinish -1, twoahead of Glenda Jefferies (37). Marg Lang wasNTP PeterMcCoombe (8) chalked up 38 points early on Thursdayand kept the field at bay.
He wasthe overall and A-grade winner, beating Tony Olsson (17) on acountback. Olsson topped B-grade by four from Tony Strong (18).
John Beet and Leigh Campbell were NTPs
KYNETON
Normal programming has resumed with club champion ColHudgson racking up the wins again withalarming regularity
In Saturday'sstableford he carded 37 points off5 to take out A-grade and also qualify forthe CC Fisher doubles knockout withJesper Hansen.
Aftera slow start, Hudgson wasthe only playertomatch handicap in thefield of 47, playing the last 10 holes in even par.Neville Yates(12) edged out Adam Smith (10) on a countback forrunner-up.
PeterWalsh (16) had astretchofsix successiveparstofinish with34inB-grade, three clear of Mick McQualter (15), and a steady Noel Alldis (19) topped C-grade with 34 from Shaun Neeson (25) on 31.
NTPswenttoHudgson, Neeson, Simon Rosenbergand Daniel Dubens.
On Wednesday, 22 hardy souls ruggedupfor the stableford challengewith Michael Huntington (36) making it twowins in three weeks with asolid 37 points, two clear of John Waddell (15).
Rachael McAndrew (24) wonthe women's section with 29 points.
In Thursday'snine-hole shootout Yates (8) had 17 points to win by four
Last Tuesday'swomen's round washard work forthe eightcompetitors.
Tracey Bramich (15) had 92-15-77 to be twoclear of Julie Harris (17).
Thethree-round MinFerris Trophywent to Judy Quick withnettrounds of 71, 77 and 84. MoyraDouglas wonthe 9-hole stableford andNTPswenttoQuick, Bramich, Joan Gibbs and Jane Stanley.
In the doubles knockout Stanleyand Banksie Buckleyedged DotGreenwayand Marian Orr2/1, and Harris and McAndrew
beatMichelle Werner —TeaoteDavies 4/3.
LANCEFIELD
Thevery consistent lowmarkerDenis Davenport (6) took outSaturday'sstablefordwith 36 points.
Todd Lambert (6) wasrunner-up on (35) withKevin McBride (18) thirdon34, on a countback.
Second round 4BBB knockout matches sawBert and Greg Parks topple Mark Cruise —DaveBentley4/3, and PeterMcGill —Stewart StevensbeatBarry Flentjar DarcyCreer 1up
ThursdayFIX stableford:EdGodek (15) 36 points from SteveGilbert (16) 31 and Stephen Morgan (28) 27.
It's greattosee some of the newerladies continuing to improve.
Glenda Bentley(42) wonWednesday's stableford with 28 pointsonacountback from HazelLaycock (54), with Di Rohde(32) thirdon27.
Legends: Barry Flentjar (20) 31 points, from Graham Mau(15) 30 and John Leefe (11) and Wayne Mee(20) both 26.
MOUNTMACEDON
Excellentweather forSaturday'sstableford, with the highlightanace on the 12th hole by Isaac Golden.
While it maynot have been the prettiest of strokes, it still required number 1tobe posted on the scorecard. Congratulations Zac.
Mick Doyle (5)was the overall and Agrade winner with 41 points, Tony Carter (12) topped B-grade with37, and Carolyn Doyle (21) clinched C-grade with34.
Thetwo dozenmembersappreciated conditions on Wednesday. Thanks to Rob B. forhis detectivework in discovering arepugnantodour permeating from the clubhouse which wasthe result of aplastic brush inadvertently left to smoulder inthe ash bucket
Tony Carter (12) topped A-grade with 36 pointona countback from Mike Hoiles (12) and Oils Flannery (13).
BevanUren(28) shone in B-grade with 42 points, from Damian Scott(19) on 35.
ROMSEY
Abitterly cold day forgolferswas made worseonSaturdaywitha wind changetoa 35kmh northerly thatsuckedthe body heat
out of all on the course.
Close to handicap wasagood return, with Toby Clement(15) the winner with 35 stableford points, on acountback from Andrew Clement(10). SteveWilkins (18) wasthirdon34.
Luke Lyons had the longest driveand one NTP,with Andrew Clementclaiming the other Achallengetoplaygolf in difficult conditions on Wednesday, with little or no run on much of the course.
DavidJones (14) wonwith 32 points, from RobMcDonald (13) 31, and Jenny Hartley(21) 27.
TRENTHAM
Cool andstill conditions prevailed forthe final of the prestigedoubles knockout on Saturday.WinnerswereDavid Thiele and Martin Walker,who finished1-up against worthyopponents Adam Moustafa and Cameron McDonald.
Thiele and Walker were 2-up afterseven holes, and neverrelinquished theirlead.
Memberscontested afourball better ball, and therewas atightfinish.
Trevor and Hadyn McKeon finished 7up, one ahead of BrettBowker— Richard Cootewho took second placeonacountback from AnthonyFlores —Bob Penrose.
Thewomen playedthe thirdround of the JimMcCormack trophyevent,with Sally Kirkpatrick the day'swinner with 36 points, from Cate Thomason35.
WOODEND
Alarge field of 56 turned outonSaturdayfor the stableford competition.
Cam Milward(20) blitzed the course to score41 points and takeoverall and Bgrade honours.
Matt Payne(5) wasinfine form in A-grade, and came in with38 points, one better than Matt Kivo
TheC-grade winner wasCodyMcDorman(25) with 38 points, from BruceKent (30) on 35.
In Tuesday'sstableford,evergreen Fergus Nevin(10) wasinsuperb form with41 points, withDennis Barker (11) runner-up on 36.
Useofcarts is presently restricted to members, to help protectthe course when thereis little growth on fairways,and also to balancethe needs of members
Margaret Parker).
Magpies falltodetermined Bulldogs
TheCastlemaine Magpies made the trek to Wade Street to tackle Golden Squarelast Saturdayinround nine action.
TheMagpie Seniorsweredetermined to getback on the winners' list against the battling Bulldogs side.
Castlemaine wasted no time peppering the goals and were finally rewarded with agoal to Brodie Byrne.
Minutes laterByrne pegged his second giving the visitorsahandy lead.
Golden Squarefoughtback late in the term and finally gota goal on theboard through Jack Stewart. TheMagpies led by 10 points at thechange.
TheBulldogs continued to work hardearly in the second term and added goalsfrom
Xavier Carter and Luke Holt before Castlemaine found another
Thespectatorswereinfor ashowinthe thirdterm withbothsides rising to thechallengeand kicking four goalsapiece.
Castlemaine held on to aone-pointadvantageatthe final change.
Sensing awhiff of apotential win the Bulldogs pulled out all the stops in the final termkickingthree moregoals and stifling the Magpies opportunities to scoretosnatchvictory by 23 points.
Best forthe Magpies were Ryan Eyre,Callum McConachy, Patrik Balta, Michael Hartley, Hunter Staples and Harrison Sheahan.
TheReserves were down early but to their credit foughttheir waybackinthe thirdand fourth terms going down by 30 points at the final siren.
Best forthe Magpies were Alton Bracken, William Marks, Aidan Medlyn, Thomas Ford, Tyson Hickey andLukeWalters
TheUnder 18s matchwas areal arm wrestle from start to finish. TheBulldogs pulled out to a13-pointleadathalf-time, but the young Pies reeled them back in and were unlucky to go down by just twopoints at the final siren.
Best forthe Magpies were Cooper Mark with 3goals, OscarGiddings, Chaz Holman, Jack Nuttall, SaxonSieber-Hogg andGabriel O'Sullivan.
Netball
On the netball court, AReserverecorded afantastic win 50-38 over theBulldogs. Best on court wasMadie Clifford.
BGrade lost 71-42 despitea topeffort. Best on wasGeorgia Roberts.
BReservelost 81-17 in atough battle. Best wasMolly Chalkey
The17s also lost despitea superb effort 53-33. Best on wasAnnaEliott. This weekend
This Saturdaythe Magpie football and netball sides will host Kangaroo Flat at the Camp Reserve, and the Magpie women's football side will hit the road fresh from the bye and look to bounceback against Marong on SundayJune 29.
GKUthree clear on topofladder
Gisborne-KynetonUnited playedinanother hardhitting clash between the twotop sides on Saturday. Both teamswereevenly matched throughoutthe game, with Taylors Lakes taking aone-goal lead in the middleof the second quarter,GKU's backline getting aserious workout withLenius, Mitchell and Murphyall stepping up to stop TaylorsLakes converting their inside 50s into scores.
Themomentum began to shift afterhalftime, as GKU adjusted their structureand lifted their intensity.Kat Bauhad acommanding presence, rotating between the back flank and midfield to provide astrong link to the forwards. Herefforts helped open up the forwardline, whereHateleyand Todorovic capitalised on the improved delivery,each slotting twogoals to swing the game in GKU’s favour
GKU also celebratedHayleyMitchell's 100th game.
This victory sees GKUnow sitting three games clear on topofthe ladder —astrong position heading into the back half of the season. However, there'sstill work to be done, with both the fast-finishing Sunbury Lions and the resurgent Kangaroos making statements withconvincing wins in recent weeks.
Magpie Kal Huntly lays atackle on his Bulldogs opponentinmuddyconditions at Golden Square.
Photo:Peter Banko
Magpie Reserves Aidan Medlyn shows determination in thwarting the Bulldogsattack.
Photo:Peter Banko
Bourke boasts winner at Echuca
Bill West
Kynetonowner-trainer Edmund Bourkebroke through fora winner when Savvie Blancwon at Echuca on Sunday.
RacedbyBourkeand his wifeMary,the five-year-old washaving his thirdracestart, having run second at the sametrack on June 3. Breeding and racing gallopershas been aBourkehobbyfor the past decade, and thereare high hopes thegalloper will continue to improve
Starting as a$4.40 chance, Savvie Blancwas well ridden by Cameron Quilty in the 1400m TwoTests Catering Maiden over 1400m.
Another Kynetongalloper,Habitual, trained by Marita Lawson, wasrunner-up in the race
TWOFOR HOWLEY
Macedon Ranges trainer Liam Howleyproduced winnersatGeelong and Echucaatthe weekend.
Four-year-old mareContacted washaving her tenthstart when she wona 1400m Maiden at Echuca on Sunday.
Alana Kellyrode the galloper who wonby0.8 of alength and waswell in the market
On Saturday,Howleywon a1412m BM58 eventatGeelong with Onlygoldwilldo.
It wasthe four-year-old'sthirdracesuccess.
Rose Hammond rode the $21 chancevery patiently and made a well-timed runinthe straight.
Connections feel the winner willimprove as he wasracing firstup from aspell.
Henderson new coachfor 2026
Castlemaine Football Netball Club has announced the appointmentofBaileyHenderson as senior coachfor season 2026.
CFNC presidentCaleb Kuhle said Baileystepping up from his role of Under 18s coachwas very exciting forthe club and the group
"Baileybegan his coaching career with leading our Under 18s to finals forthe first time in adecade and has been working as an assistantwiththe senior group forthe last twoseasons,"Kuhle said.
"The experience he has gained across playing in the BFNL, Coates League,VFL and NTFL is agreat bolster to his knowledge and pairswell with his greatrelationships with the playing group." Congratulations in the newrole next year Bailey, exciting times ahead forthe club.
Cats dominate
Macedon continued on its winning wayinRiddell League women's football at the weekend, accounting forMtAlexander Falcons by 80 points.
TheCatsweredominantthroughout, winning 12.15 (87) to 1.1 (7).
Up forwardTayaKonias wasunstoppable and finished withsix goals, with Brianna Woodburn, Nina Harbinson and Lilly Collins also among the best forthe reigning premiers.
Second-placed Lancefield led throughout to defeat Melton 8.8 (56) to 4.0 (24) and has sights setonthe double chance. AliceBromley, Kelley Walker and Emily O'Brien we very consistent forthe Tigers,with HarrietZiedaitis the main scorer with three goals. Ruby Tarantokicked fivegoals as Riddell dominatedRomsey9.10 (64) to 0.1 (1).
Breanna Tarczon, Mirian Habib and Lauren Shaw were very prominentfor the Bombers, while Romsey's best were Nicole Stewart, Madison Lawerand Megan Brundell.
Steadersand Creekgohead to head
Newstead Football NetballClub welcomed Campbells Creekinthe local derbyinround 10 of the Maryborough Castlemaine District Football netball League last Saturday.
TheSteadersshotout to an early lead in the first termkicking threegoals and keeping their Creek Magpie visitorstoasolitary point.
TheCreekersworked hardtoshutdownthe Roos' runongoal in the second term keeping them to 1.5 forthe term, but were unable to register aresult at the other end of the park and were down by 33 points at half-time.
Creek did notbow their heads and continued to battle forevery opportunity in the thirdterm and were rewarded with twomuch-needed goals, holding the home side to just six points.
Thefourthquarter wasthe best of the daywith Creek smashing through another three goals, butthe Newstead forwards eventually gottheir eyeinand kicked four of their owntorun out winnersby33 points.
Best forNewstead were Michael Dalrymple, Joel Smith, Bradley Richardson, Jedd Pedretti, Nicholas Woodman and Ethan Maltby
Best forCreek were Kyle Gellatly,Dylan Stevens, Mitchell Stevens, Nicholas O’Brien, Jamie Benbowand MatthewCox
Harcourt made the trek to DeledioReservetotackle the Eagles and both sides putona show forthe crowd in the opening term kicking 5.1 apiece.
TheLions inched ahead in the second term kicking twogoals to Dunolly'sone to lead by eightpoints at half-time.
Harcourt showedtheir class in the thirdkicking another twogoals whilst keeping the Eagles to just one point.
Dunolly found another in the final stanza but Harcourt finished strongly kicking twomoregoals to record a28-pointwin.
Best forthe Lions were JedRodda, Mark Noonan, Joshua Hogg,Jack Threlfall, BraydonVaz and Tom Stefaniw
Trentham had abig win over Avoca.
TheBulldogs managed to contain the Saints to just three goalsinthe opening term, but only registered four points of their own.
Thesecond term wasa moreevenaffair with Avoca adding three goalsand theSaints kicking another five. At half-time 28 points separated the sides.
TheSaints were unstoppable in the thirdkicking another eightgoals, doubling their scorewhile holding the Bulldogs to just twopoints.
Avoca peggedacouple backinthe last term, but the Saints piled on another half adozentorun out convincing winnersby116 points.
Best forthe Saints were JamesRegan witha massive 10 goals, Edward Fanning, Jake Keogh, Taylor Ford, Thomas Fuller and Mitchell Jensen.
Maldon welcomed NatteBealiba to theBill Woodfull Reserve.
Thefirst quarter wasa real armwrestle with both sides trying to gain the upper hand. However, the Swans led by 11 points at the break.
TheSwans kicked it up alevel in the second term slamming through eightgoals to one to break out to a 55-pointleadathalf-time
Maldon nevergaveupinthe second half but goals were hard to come by and theyeventuallywentdown by 98 points.
Best forthe Dons were Damian Wust, Billy Johns, Thomas Maxwell, Xavior Noy, Noah Thompson and Callum Buchanan.
In other matches, Navarrelost to Carisbrook by five points and Maryborough Giants defeated Lexton by 25 points. Talbot had thebye Netball
On thenetball court in AGrade matches, Newstead 65 had awin overCampbells Creek34. Best forthe Steaderswas Brianna Jury.Best forCreek wasPaige Langley. Dunolly and Harcourt drew 39 apieceinanail biter.Best forthe Lions wasJordan Bagley. Avoca 63 defeated Trentham 33. Best forTrentham wasSophie Elderfield. Maldon 13 lost to NatteBealiba 95. Best forthe Donnerswas AliceMcManus. Maryborough Giants 61 defeated Lexton 47. Navarre41 accountedfor Carisbrook. Talbot had the bye. This weekend
In round 11 matches this weekend, Lexton takes on Talbot,Trentham hostsNavarre, Campbells Creek welcomes Maryborough Giants, NatteBealiba facesAvoca, Harcourt hosts Newstead,Dunolly versus Maldon and Carisbrook has the bye.
Costly loss forGisborne
South Bendigoinflicted an unexpected andcostly 42-point defeat on Gisborne footballersinthe BendigoLeague's matchofthe day on Saturday.
Adevastating second term with the home side ramminghomeeight goals to twoleftGisborne trailing by 30 points at half-time.
Thoughts of both sides possibly went back to Good Fridayinround two, when theyclashed at Gardiner Reserveand Gisborne went down by 27 points.
Nowthe only losses forthe Bulldogs this season have come at the
hands of South Bendigo, and they slipped to thirdplaceonthe ladder behind Sandhurst and Eaglehawk.
SeveralofGisborne's big name players did nothavetheir usual influenceonthe outcome on Saturday.
Sixgoals down at the last change, Gisborne fell furtherbehind and sustained a17.13 (115) to 9.19 (73) defeat
Thetaskthis week is surely to regroup and preparefor atough on the road tripagainst Strathfieldsaye this Saturday.
Dylan Johnstone, ZacVescovi, DarcyYoung, Shane Clough, James
Grayand Thomas Warner were listed as Gisborne's best.
South BendigoReserves kept their unbeatenrecordintact with a 9.8 (62) to 5.6 (36) victory
In the Under 18s, South Bendigo won9.7 (61) to 4.10 (34).
NETBALLSHOCK
South BendigoA-grade netballerscaused asurprise by defeating Gisborne 51-49 to preventa whitewash.
In A-ReserveGisborne won6337. It was68-39 in B-grade, 54-29 in B-Reserve, and 76-32 in the 17&Under match.
Magpie stalwart BaileyHenderson will lead the Magpies in 2026.
TheCreek side putina valiantperformanceagainst Newstead. Photo:Max Lesser
Netball, andfooty forMady
Bill West
Riddell teenager Mady Brownhas found away to combineher undoubtednetball skills withfootball this season, and juggling the twosportsisachallengeshe is enjoying.
Ahome-grownRiddell product,Mady is aswift-moving mid-courter whooften features among the Bombers' A-grade netball best players
So whytackle football? Andwhich is the easier sport?
From avery young ageshe wasinRiddell junior netball teams, progressing through the grades.
As a16-year-old, she playedinanA-grade netball grand final, and is keen to seethe Bombersmake another tilt forthe premiership this season.
An impressive70-43 victory over RomseyonSaturdaykeeps Riddell in second placeonthe ladder,a win and percentagebehind unbeatenladder-leader Woodend-Hesket
In fact all fiveRiddell netball teams wonagainst Romsey on Saturdayasthe sunshine came out.
When Riddell decided to form asenior women'sfootball team forthis season, Mady learned some of her friends were going to play.
"I thoughtI'd giveita go as well, but it'sbeena long learning curve,"she admits.
Mady'snatural speed and athleticism areundoubtedassetsinbothcodes. She'salso appreciativeof encouragementand coaching on offerwith the Bombers.
Sheenjoys both sports, particularly as Riddell has improvedconsiderably in football as the season has progressed.
At the weekend the women's football side defeated Romsey 9.10 to 0.1, and Mady thinks thereare other young netballerswho would be able to makethe transition to football —iftheywereconvinced they could succeed.
So farshe has remained injury-free in both sports, and likes the team atmosphere.
Acouple of months agothe 19-year-old took up ateaching aide position at St Ambrose Primary School in Woodend.
"I'm really enjoying working with the children and it'snot fartotravel,"she said.
Mady said she wasa strong believerinplaying withher home town club (Riddell) rather than swapping around as had become amorerecenttrend in the Riddell League.
Come finals time, there'sa strong chanceMady willbeonthe netball court and the football ground as well forthe Bombers.
Giants
in athriller
Therewas an exciting finish to the Macedon versus Gisborne Giants Agrade netball match on Saturday.
Thetwo neighbouring clubs went goal forgoal at Tony ClarkeReserve, with theCatsmissing shooterHetty Donohue due to abrokenwrist.
TheCatssecured the services of former Kynetonstar ClaireOakleyto try to retain strength in attack
TheGiants eventually won44-42, almost arepeatoftheir upset44-43 performanceinthe second round.
Second-placed Riddell achieved aconfidencebooster by securing aconvincing 70-43 victory against Romsey, nowinseventh place.
Ladder-leader Woodend-Hesket fielded aside with adifferent composition, accounting forWallan 49-40. Kynetonprovedtoo strong for bottom side DiggersRest with a 50-33 scoreline, and hope to secure morewins in thelatterpart of the season.
In the remaining match sixthplaced Melton Centrals boosted percentagebyoutclassing Melton South 61-23. Third-placed Lancefield had the bye.
Thefavourites wontheir matches in the 10th round of Riddell League senior football on Saturday.
Forthree quartersKynetonreally tested ladder-leader DiggersRest, before the homeside produced six goalsinthe last term to win by 20 points.
Ascintillating burst of four goalsvery late in the first quarter put reigning premier Riddell in the boxseatagainst arch-rival Romsey,and the Bomberswentontowin by 58 points.
TheRedbacks were restricted to just one goal inthe second half.Riddell had severalplayers on theinjurylist.
Macedon continued its push fora finals berth as dangerous forwardJason Cookeproduced six goalsagainst Gisborne Giants, with the final margin 79 points.
Wallan came to Woodend and accountedfor the Hawks by 45 points. TheMagpies nowtake on Kynetoninacrucial match forbothsides this weekend.
Andfinals 'dark horse'Melton South displaced Kynetoninthirdposition by thrashing Melton Centrals by 81 points.
TheRiddell versus Romsey matchattracted a
large crowd to Bomberland, and homeside fans were notdisappointedastheir belowfull strength side accountedfor the Redbacks, who arenow in danger of being overhauled by Macedon.
Evergreen Dean Galea, the league's leading goalkicker last season, kicked six forthe Bombersand is favouritetowin yetanother goalkicking title. Theabsenceon-field of reliable playing coach Nathan Blair did nothelpthe Redbacks. Romseysupportershad some joyastheir Under 18s and Reserves sides were able to account fortheir opposition.
Riddell coachArron 'Skip'Brayissuretohave his chargesready foranother challengeatMelton SouthonSaturday.
Kyneton really tested DiggersRest withstrong recruit DannyGrmusa in fine form.
Nowthe Tigers go to Greenhill Reservefor an intriguing matchagainst the Magpies, who have some imposing big men.
Much-travelled Cameron Clokekicked six goalsfor Wallan on Saturday, and will test Kynetondefenders.
Only fivegoals were scored at Tony ClarkeReserveinthe first half as Gisborne Giants curtailed the Cats; it wasdifferentinthe second half as Macedon ranawaytokeep the visitorstojust one goal
Balancing act: Mady Brownenjoys both netballand football with the Bombers.
Photo:Bill West
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