Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil has called out thestate government'shaste in its four-week consultation on adevelopment planned to change thefaceofClarkefield.
At council'smeeting last week, Cr JenniferAnderson revealed the council had been informally refused atimeextension on its submission to theprocess.
With submissions closing yesterday, MRSChas scrambled to makean'officerlevelresponse'tomeetthe state government'sdeadline, however, it is notthe council'sformal position.
Draft Macedon Ranges Planning Scheme Amendment–C164macr will facilitate a 2300-lotdevelopmenttotransform Clarkefield from ahamlettoanew district town. Thetown'sfaterests with the Minister
forPlanning SonyaKilkennyasthe project wasreferred to thestate government's DevelopmentFacilitation Program.
Theprogram removescouncil'sdecisionmaking powerand limits its abilitytoshape the proposal.
"This is areally big-scale document with alot of supporting documents,"CrAnderson said.
"Four weeks forusasacouncil to get everything together,totalktovarious stakeholders, to getfeedback from ourcommunity –it'sanunrealistic timeframe,"Cr Anderson said.
"Wedidn't even geta heads up or a warning thatthis wascoming."
Shesaidthe time extension was"not abig ask" and fellow councillorsagreed, taking the opportunity to express their discontentmentwith theprocess and the
plans so far.
Cr Andrew Scanlon said the developmentproposal had "left the community and council reeling as to howitwill impact the region".
"The conceptofa township in Clarkefield goes back 30 to 40 years, and hereweare racing to theend.We're all wondering why this race is on,"hesaid.
Cr Daniel Young said the levelofdevelopmentproposed was"incredibly ridiculous"
"Every corner of this shireisnow talking about things that arewrong with this development,"hesaid.
"It'snot thatwedon't don'twantany development. We want good,fitting development, but youcannotturnusinto Melbourne."
Bothheand Cr Alison Joseph commentedonthe existing train servicethey
felt could notsupport thelevel of growth proposed.
"Anyone who catches the train on the Bendigoline should be concerned that they’ll neverget aseatagain if this goes ahead because thereisn’t the ability to increase the capacity,"CrJoseph said. It is notthe first time MRSChas been denied decision-making powers on largescale development. Strong council and community opposition did little to alter the controversial plans to double thesizeofRiddells Creek thatwereapprovedlast year through the same DevelopmentFacilitation Program. With submissions closing yesterdayfor the Clarkefield proposal, MRSC has scrambled to makean'officer-levelresponse'to meetthe state government'sdeadline. The council intends to makea formal submission following its July council meeting.
Macedon Ranges Shirecouncillors
hamletintoa district town.
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Notlovin’it–kidsrally againstMaccas
Lisa Dennis
Avocal group of primary and secondary school students from Castlemaine and surrounding districts gathered forthe Kids Against Maccas rallyinCastlemaine last Thursdayafternoon.
About 300 young people, parents and supporterswearing anti-McDonald'sshirts and carrying placardspicketedthe siteof the proposed McDonald'srestaurantonthe corner of Forest and Hargraves streets at the entrancetotown.
Protestersvoicedconcerns about the potential impactsofthe development, leading chants of "Whatdowewant? No Maccas! When do we want it? Never!" and singing "NoMcDonald'sinthisTown" to thetuneof OldMacDonald Hada Farm
McDonald'sAustralia recently confirmed it had purchased the Castlemaine site (Express,May 26) and wasexploring the opportunity to establish arestauranttoservice the local community
Theland, formerly owned by Maxi IGA proprietorBrendan Blake, reportedly sold for $4.6 million.
AMcDonald'sspokesperson said the proposed restaurantwould representan investmentofmorethan $3.5 million and, if approved, create more than 100local jobs and training opportunities across the Goldfields region, while providing additional support to community groups.
As news of the purchase spread, local children and teenagersexpressed disappointmentand concern about whata McDonald'scould meanfor Castlemaine's future.
Therally wasorganised by 11-year-old Wren Camilleri, who said young people would be among thosemost affected.
"I cried when Iheardthe news.I never imagined aMaccas here. We love ourtown being healthyand beautiful. Kids don't want
or need McDonald'sintown,"Wrensaid.
"I am worried about the impacts it would have on people's health as the food istoo high in sugars, salts and fats,but also on the environment.
“Itisonlya short distancefromlocal schools and Forest Creek. What about the water bugs we learn about in school and the dragonflies?"
Fellowprotester Ramona said it should be up to local residents to decide whether they wanted aMcDonald's.
"Itshould be the choiceofpeople of this town if theywanta Maccas,"she said, drawing applause from the crowd
Tilly said Castlemaine's character as a small country town would be undermined by increased traffic near schools, sporting facilities, the Farmersand Artists Markets, and the skatepark.
"Wealready have alot of greatfood options here, cheaper and alot healthier," she said.
Lila agreed, saying, "Itisnot ahighway or acity,itisalittle town. It doesn't belong here."
Albi raised concerns about the impacton established trees bordering the site, while Sidremarked, "Ifyou want Maccas youcan just go to Bendigo."
Thestudents notedthe proposed site is less than 250 metres from Castlemaine Primary School, twoblocks from St Mary's Primary School and intersectsmajor walking and cycling routes used by local families. Five other schools arealso locatedwithin a short distance.
They said promises of jobs foryoung people did little to ease their concerns, arguing aMcDonald'swould alter the town's character and sense of community.Other concerns included potential impacts on local businesses, increased traffic,noise, litter and environmental damage.
Thegroup said communities across Aus-
Young people from acrossCastlemaineand surrounds turned out forthe snaprallytoprotest againstthe proposed McDonald’srestaurantinCastlemaine. INSET:Rally organiser Wren and supporter Tilly were among the young people to speakout on the proposal.
tralia were facing similar proposals.
"McDonald'sare making decisions that affect futures without listening to thepeople who livehere. Communities, andespecially kids, deservea sayabout the kind of town theywant,"the students said.
Videos from the rallyposted on social media channels drew mixedreactions, with some supporting the students' concerns and
otherswelcoming the prospect of the fastfood giantcoming to Castlemaine.
No planning application has yetbeen lodged with MountAlexander ShireCouncil. MountAlexander Shiremayor Toby Heydon said council would assess anyapplication on its planning merits, including environmental, social and economic considerations.
Who’sgoing to cleanupthismess?
Angela Crawford
AWoodend mountain biker has expressed frustration after being shuffled between three state governmentagencies while trying to report illegal rubbish dumping in the WombatState Forest.
MatthewConnor wasappalled to discover severalpiles of bathroom and kitchen renovation wastedumpedalong forest tracks last month.
"A group of us knowthe bush very well,and we know of many such locations,"hesaid.
"The entirebathroom dumped on Gerry'sTrack is whatreally made me want to raise awareness."
Mr Connor said he and his friends have also discovered 20 drums of used motoroil, lounge suites and mattresses dumped throughout the forest.
Thegroup has begun docu-
menting sites by collecting photographsand recording locations.
Mr Connor initially reported the issuetothe EPAbut said he wasdirected elsewhere.
"I submitted areport to the EPAand their response instructed me to contact Parks. Ihad already done thatand wastold to contact DEECA(DepartmentofEnergy, Environmentand Climate Action).
DEECAthen referred me back to Parks,"hesaid.
"The respectivejurisdictions areunclear and possibly ambiguous. As aresult, it becomes 'someone else's problem'–and ultimately mine.
"Perhaps the only practical solution is to clean it up myself and paytodispose of it at the local tip.
"I'll discuss this with my team of concerned citizens and taxpayers."
ADEECA spokesperson said illegal dumping in state forests was
aserious offencethatcould harm the environment, pollute waterways anddamagewildlifehabitat.
"Tohold moreillegal dumpers to account, the Victorian Governmenthas boosted funding forthe EPAtoestablish the Illegal Dumping Taskforce,which will increase surveillanceand enforcement across Victoria,"theysaid.
"Responsibility forclean-up activities sits with local and state governmentlandmanagers."
EPANorth West Regional Manager Paul Ratajczyk said illegal wastedumping on public land wasincreasing across Victoria.
"Weurgeanyone who sees illegally dumped wastetoreport it to us,"hesaid.
"When we receivereports, we undertakeaninvestigation to identify the polluter
"Wherever possible, we identify those responsible and make them paythe cost of cleaning it up.Ifthe polluter cannotbe
identified, the land manager is responsible fordisposing of the waste."
Illegal dumping can be reported to theEPA's 24-hour hotline on 1300 372 842 or online through theEPA website.
Incidents in state forests can also be reported anonymously to Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000 or online.
Maximum penalties fordumping rubbish and littering on public land can exceed $3.95 million for businesses and $800,000 or five years' imprisonmentfor individuals.
TheEPA-led Illegal DumpingTaskforce hasreceived $13 million in funding to strengthen surveillanceand enforcementefforts across Victoria.
Futurehighschools in focusfor Macedon Ranges
AmyHume
Large-scale developments planned forClarkefield and Riddells Creek have prompted Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil to probe the Victorian Government on futurepublic secondary education provisions.
Last week the mayor, Cr Kate Kendall, movedamotion seeking at update on thestatusand future
planning forsecondary schools within the shirefromthe DepartmentofEducation.
Shealso called forclarity on howthe Riddells Creekand Clarkefield developments were being considered within current, futurepopulation and enrolment forecasting.
"This is driven by community feedback aboutClarkefield, however,there were concerns raised
Council news
about education even before the Clarkefield development(was made available),"she said.
"It'scoming up to nearly a decade sincethe 2018 Romsey school consultation occurred. Do we need to nowrevisit this?
"Therehas notbeen anew public secondary school established since1981."
Thecouncil will ask whether the departmentintends to revisit, re-
Congratulations to thewinners of the 2026 Edgy VegAwards!
Returning to Mount Alexander Shirefor the second year, the Edgy VegAwardshad their biggestparticipation yet.
This year,946 customers trieda vegelicious dish and cast their vote foralocal eatery
Well done to all entrants from acrossthe shireand the wider region. Whata fantastic waytocelebrate all things vegetables and healthyeating!
Photograph by TiffanyWarner
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fresh or recommenceconsultation associatedwith the 2018 Romsey secondary school consultation given its proximity to thedevelopments.
It will also seek details on what population, enrolmentand broader planning considerations, including population thresholds and enrolmentcriteria,are used by the departmentwhen determining the need fornew public second-
ary education, as well as details on land identified forfutureschools.
Adevelopmentapprovedfor Amess Road at Riddells Creekis expected to double the sizeof the town,while another proposal forClarkefield intends to produce 2300 morehomes.
TheClarkefield developmentis currently being assessed through the state government'sDevelopmentFacilitation Program.
Victorians save on travel costs
Thestate governmentis cutting the cost of commuting and driving.
As of yesterday, a20per cent rebate is available for lightvehicleregistrations paid between July 1, 2025 and June 30, 2026.
Therebate includes cars, utes, motorbikes and any
vehicle under 4.5 tonnes.
Thefullrebate will apply regardless of whether you payregistration in full or in installments.
Youcan claim up to two vehicles in your name.
Drivershaveuntil July 31 to applyatwww.service.vic. gov.au/rego-rebate
Half-pricepublic transport fareshavehas also begun. Thediscountwill reducea full price fair to $5.70 –statewide until the end of the year Public transport will remain permanently free for under 18s and other special pass holders.
MatthewConnorand his friends have begun documenting sitesbycollecting photographs and recording locations
Jazz legendstofeature
TheCastlemaine Jazz Festival returnsthis King'sBirthday weekend and onceagain promises an incredible lineup with more than 40 bands and performerstofeature across six local venues.
Festival director Lyndal McCluresaidthis year'slineupwas incredibly diverse and truly offeredsomething foreveryone.
"Opening nightatThe GoodsShed will featureour very own Thompson's Foundry Band, and local choirswith, forthe firsttime, the exciting Castlemaine Jazz Festival Orchestra,"Lyndal said.
"A highlightofthe eveningwill be thestunning acappella harmonyofthe Velvetones."
Thevelvet-voiced virtuosos perform everything from heartstirring jazz ballads to cheeky earlyBroadway ditties to hypnotise and delight.
Theevent kicksoff at 7pm Fridayand tickets will be available at the door
"One of the biggest highlights of this year'sfestival will be the opportunity to seeARIA awardwinner Paul Grabowsky and Australia’s leading jazz vocalist, composer and trumpetplayer, Vince Jones perform on the one stageatCastlemaine's historicTheatre Royal. This is areal coup forthe festival and will be one of those unforgettable moments,"Lyndal said.
Thepair have begun creating abatch of newsongs and some of these aresuretobeintheir upcoming setlists. Nowelder statesmen of the music,Vinceand Paul bring their messageofthe healing powerofsong to audiences of every stripe.
"Saturdaywill see ahugelineup at the CastlemaineBowling Club from 11.30am to 7pm including TheHackneySacks, The 'Maine Course and festival favourites Shirazz,"Lyndal said.
"Wewill also be welcoming an international ensemble called Dans LesAbres,comprising French clarinetist Xavier Charles and three Norwegians, apianist, guitarist and percussionist who will performing in the beautiful Anglican Church on Agitation Hill.
"Hot from the Castlemaine StateFestival the impressiveAryo Seno Ensemble will also feature.
"Newcomerstothe 2026 eventinclude MadVantagewhich have connections to Castlemaine, the NatBartsch Quartet,Girls NightIn, Monkey Stickand Exit Left.
"Don’t forget Anticlinal Fold,Low Down BigBand, RedSand Big Band, and MountKujo just to namea few."
Allthisand moreacross six venues including TheatreRoyal, Castlemaine Bowling Club, Coolroom at the Northern Arts Hotel, TheGoods Shed, Anglican Church and the newJazz Loungeand
"This year we have awider rangeoffoodoptions available to keep festival goersfueledupincluding pizza at the Maurocco Barand paella at TheGoods Shed.
"Thereisalso agreat rangeofticketing options including daypasses, weekend passes, and the all new$50 'Try Ticket'available at thedoor, which allows youtosee threeacts over threehours–a greatintroduction to thefestival forthe uninitiated,"Lyndal said. Forthe full programortograbyourticket,visit castlemainejazzfestival. com.au
Trentham bridge closed
Hepburn ShireCouncil has temporarily closed apedestrian bridgeonthe Domino Trail in Trentham,after independentadvice confirmed the structurewas unsafe for use.
Thebridgecrosses over StonyCreek, just to thewestofStation Street,and is a short distancefromthe historic Trentham Railway Station. Userscan detour via Victoria Street and signageisnow in place. Mayor, Cr Tony Clark, said the bridge presentedserious safety concerns and must be closed forthe time being.
"Werecognise the significantimpact this closurewill have on residents and road userstogether with the challenges this has in relation to economic growth. Council has begun investigating options to re-open theimpacted section of the trail and will keep the community updated along the way,"hesaid.
"This represents another example of astate-owned assetwherethe Victorian Governmentdoes notprovide funding for maintenanceorsupport. Council will work closely with the governmenttoassess and source funding to repair andmaintain similar assets along the trail."
It is expectedthatthe bridgewill need to remain closed foratleast 12 to 24 months before apermanentsolution is put in place.
The20-metre timberbridgeforms part of the old rail corridor,anactiverailway from 1880 to 1978, which wasconverted into acontinuous trail forcyclists and hikersin2013.
This trail and associatedassets, including this bridge, were handed over to the council formanagementin2020. Since, the council has regularly monitored timber bridges along the Domino Trail.
Support continues forHarcourt
Harcourt Progress Association has received asignificantgrant from theMagistrate’sCourt Fund to buy fencing materials forthe fire-affected community of the Harcourt Valleyand surrounding areas.
Thegrant aims to support those impacted as aresult of the January Bushfires and the subsequentloss of localfencing on farmland.
In association with BlazeAid, 50 kilometres of fencing has been rebuilt at no cost to theproperty holders.
Thereare some fencing materials left over, afterthe departure of the volunteersfromBlazeAid, which areavailable forallocation to landholderswho did notreceiveassistanceorstill have further fencing to rebuild.
Abasic farm fencing skills workshop washeldinNorth Harcourt on May17toteach 11 hardy students, who cameout in the wind and rain, howtoput postsinthe ground and strain up afence.
Harcourt Progress Association has also boughttwo complete kits of fencing toolsfor community use as atool library at no cost to local community members.
If youare interested in attending afencing skills workshop at alater date, accessing free fencing materials (limited supply)orusing thetool library of fencing tools, contact Jarrod Cooteon0438 069 849 or email hillsideacres9@gmail.com for more information.
Jazz Jamatthe Maurocco Bar, Midland Hotel.
Australian jazz legends VinceJones and Paul Grabowsky will share the stageinan unforgettable show.
Williamson’s ‘Most Outstanding’ store
Frances Noonan
Following their 50th year anniversary celebrations, Williamson’s FoodWorks Gisborne has been crowned 'National Most Outstanding Local Area Marketing store of the year' at the 2026 Australian United RetailersStore ExcellenceAwards.
Independently owned Williamson’s FoodWorks Gisborne wasannounced the national champion at agala eventinMelbourne in late April.
Thesupermarket is amember of the Australian United Retailersindependent retailing group and wasjudged best in its category
Williamson’s FoodWorks Gisborne caters uniquely to thecommunityitserves with afocus on customer experience and delivering the essentials locals want and need.
Winner of the award, social media manager Renae Jacobs, looks afterthe Gisborne store'sFacebook, Instagram and newly launched YouTube channel.
"Social media has been such aniceway to bridgethatgap between us and the community,sotheycan see whatweare all about,"Renae said.
"Myfocus has been with social media, to try and sell the products but also sell the people and the place."
Oneofthe biggercampaigns fortheir social media has been the'50 stories for50 years',which shows interviews of customersold and newreminiscing about the store'ssupport and communityand the '50 deals for50days',celebrating prices from 50 yearsago
Oneoftheir latest special deals wasfive blocks of Cadbury chocolate for$10 –they sold 5000 blocks of chocolate in just one day.
They have also sold 1500 tubsofbut-
ter, 1300kg of chicken and 4000 bags of carrots.
"Lotsofheart has come out of it. Beautifulstories have come out about whatthe family has given back to thecommunity overthe years. That in itself is adriver for people to enterthe storeand adrivefor loyalty," Renae said.
Storemanager Braydan Rodgerssaid the ultimate aimwas to increase continual customers.
"Customersneed areason to come into
the door,the prices area reason to come in,ifwecan getthem to understand the stories, that'swherewebuild the loyalty," he said.
Braydan said their social mediawas an evolving process.
"It'sa greatway to connect to the community,staff morale and comradery in the store."
Once the 50-year celebration has come to an end,Braydan and his team have considered making a'wrappedup' video outlin-
ing the numbersand statsofall things that were purchased during thecampaign.
Thespecial deals arehappening every dayuntil the anniversary on July 9, where everyone has been told to keep an eyeout forthe catalogue as itsgoing to be biggest deal yet.
To follow along with their 50-year celebrations visit Williamson's Instagram and Facebook page, and watch theircustomer celebrations on their newYouTube channel @WilliamsonsFoodWorks
Drop in adonation
Castlemaine Safe Spaceishaving a'drop in your donation'morning.
CaSS has acommunity pantry inside (accessible during opening hours) and acommunity pantry on its verandah.
example: canned soup, beans, tomatoes, tuna, Vegemite, jam, peanut butter, crackers, baby food, breakfast cereals, oats, riceand muesli bars. Every little bit helps –and every donation is welcome.
Theverandah pantry is very well used and CaSS can't keep it stocked fast enough –sotheyneed your donations of nonperishable items (food and toiletries/groceries).
Drop your tin/packet offonSaturdayJune 13 between 10am and 12pm –and call in fora cuppa and to seethe space.
Some items you mightliketodonate for
Castlemaine Safe Spaceand Community Pantry is locatedat74 MostynStreet, Castlemaine.
Opening hoursare Tuesdays 4pm-6.30pm, Thursdays 9.30am -12pm, and Saturdays 1.30pm-4pm.
Williamson’s FoodWorksGisborne social media manager RenaeJacobsand storemanagerBraydan Rodgers celebrate theiraward win
Working Groupmember Carmen is pictured with the empty pantry.Can youhelp?
Golf clubhouse officially opens
DomHogan
On Friday, May22, Gisborne Golf club memberscelebrated the official opening of their newclubhouse with the traditional ribbon cutting ceremony. Thesplendid newfacility replaces whatwas destroyedbya devastating firein the early hoursofApril 17, 2024.
Theribbon cutting wasa highlightofa special night, giving everyone who contributed to the project the chancetorecognise and celebratewhathad been achievedinsuch ashort time.
ForGGC members and staff, who feel atrueconnection to whatthe club represents, it was the end of achallenging two years, and amomentofpride as theytakethe next steps towards their newgolfing future.
Dignitaries also joined the membersinthisimportantevent, including themayor Cr Kate Kendall, BendigoBank representatives, POP architects, COMM the builders, honorary lifemembers RayKeane and TomStotten, and representatives from GREATand Golf Australia.
KatSainsbery,fromPOP Architects, spokeofthe design conceptinspired by “Gisby, the black cockatooflyingoversand bunkers”
Cr Kendall remarked on the facility’s significanceinthe region and thatthe shire'sBusiness ExcellenceAwardshad already been booked at the clubhouse forlater inthe year
Thekeynote speaker,Golf
Victoria chairman David Shilbury AM, shared the fact thatGisborne’s growth in youth membership was significantly outstripping the state averageaswecontinue to grow to be one of the largest regional clubs in the state
Thefinal word wasfromclub
presidentAlastair Boustead, speaking of the history of the club to this point. He described the array of people and organisations involved and their outstanding work to deliver the building in record time It wasanemotional and heartfelt
AnhDotoreturn to Ranges
AnhDo'sbest selling book TheHappiest Refugee hasmadereaderslaugh and cry,and his stageshowtakes it astepfurther with acombination of stand-up comedy, real lifestories, photosand film to retell his story
He is returning to KynetonTownHall, by popular demand, forone nightonlyon Thursday, October 22, at 7.30pm
When one of Australia's most talented comedians delves deep into hisown life'sjoys and sorrows, the end result is an unforgettable nightatthe theatre that leavesanaudience uplifted and quitesimply happy.
Bookings can be made via Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil'swebsite: mrsc.vic.gov.au
speechwith asense of optimism as the club continues to aspire.
At the conclusion of the speeches everyone in the room wascaptured forthe ceremonial cutting of the ribbon.
Thetogetherness and cheer wasa special moment of positivity as we look to turnthis wonderful building into awarmand welcoming home.
Aftersucha devastating moment and arduous rebuild, it was the perfect waytoturn the page on this chapterofthe club’s history.Let the futurebegin.
Developing healthy digital habits
Developing healthy digital habitsfor students is an immediate andgrowing priority in schools, as educators seek to better support engagement, wellbeing and effectivelearning.
Last week, Sacred HeartCollege's VCEVMand VPC students explored this importantareathrough an engaging workshop with Xavier Chalkley, co-founder of Ctrl Your Scroll. Xavier challenged students to think critically about their relationship withtechnology,unpacking howapp design draws on neurosciencetocapture and maintain attention.
By making these invisible influences visible, students gained adeeper understanding of the forces shaping their online behaviours.
Importantly,the session movedbeyond awareness to action. Students were introduced to practical, achievable strategies to build greaterdigital balance— from
pausing to check in with their emotions, to being moreintentional about when and whytheyreachfor their devices.
Akey messagethatresonatedstrongly wasthatmeaningful change does not requirea complete digitaldetox.Instead, small, consistenthabits– such as leaving aphone behind during awalk–can have apowerfulimpact on focus, wellbeing and connection.
This work reflectsthe college’scommitmenttoproactively fostering healthier digital habits, recognising their critical role in enhancing studentengagement, supporting wellbeing and strengthening learning outcomes in adigitally connected world.
Collegestaff aregrateful to Ctrl Your Scroll forpartnering with them in this spaceand forequipping the students with strategies theycan immediately put into practice
Theribbon cutting wasahighlightofthe night.
Sacred Heart College students with co-founder of Ctrl Your Scroll, Xavier Chalkley.
Upgrading your cattle yardscan reduce animal stress and makeyour jobsafer and moreefficient.Tolearnmoreabout upgrades youcan makeonyour property including cattle gatesand ramps, visit worksafe.vic.gov.au/safer-cattle-handling
Music, ideasand creativity
TheWoodendWinterArts Festival is just days away, ready to transformWoodend into avibranthub of music,ideas and creativity over theKing’sBirthdaylong weekend.
Festival and artistic director Jacqueline Ogeil said anticipation wasbuilding as audiences prepared to welcome an exceptional lineup.
“Weare excited to bring together extraordinary artists from across Australia fora truly immersivefestival experience,”Ogeil said. “Fromjazz and chamber music to operaand big ideas, there’ssomething foreveryone.”
TheFestival opens with an electrifying set from the Chris Johnstone/Mat Jodrell Quartet,setting the tone fora culturefilled long weekend. Headline acts include pianist Tamara-Anna Cislowska in collaboration with composer ElenaKats-Chernin, the powerful Monteverdi Vespersof1610 presentedbyEnsemble Gombert and Accademia Arcadia conducted by John O’Donnell, and internationally acclaimed accordion virtuoso James Crabb.
Audiences can also look forwardtoperformances by Seraphim Trio, Affinity Quartet,and CoadyGreen, alongside arich Wordsand Ideas programfeaturing Hugh Mackay, AlanFinkel, Anna Goldsworthyand David Marr
Families arewell cateredfor too, with highlights including InventiEnsemble’s 1001 Nights and afreesession with author and poetMax Beneba Clarke.
“With morethan 90 artists settoappear in venues throughout Woodend, from thesoaring acousticsofSt Ambrose Church to theintimacy of St Ambrose Hall next door,WWAFgives audiences the rare chance to experience exceptional talentupclose,” said Ogeil.
With severaleventsalready sold out and othersnearing capacity,audiences areencouraged to book nowto avoid missing out.
“We’re thrilled withthe response so farwith strong bookings from notonlythe local area and Melbourne, but from interstateaswell,” Ogeil added. “Ifthere’s something you’dlove to see, don’t wait, makesureyou book your ticketstoday.”
WWAF willtakeplacefromJune 5-8. Ticketscan be purchased online at woodendwinterartsfestival.org.au
Thedramatic
TheGallery MountMacedon's June exhibition, Ranging the Ranges,showcases the dramatic beautyofIttaSomaia's newhome.
An avid hiker newtothe Macedon Ranges, Itta regularly sets out with her painting kit, stopping to record fleeting momentsofcolour and light, that
beauty of theRanges
define the local landscape.
Deeply influenced by the Impressionist movement through her family of artists, Itta developed aboldintuitivestyle beginning withacrylic underpainting before completing each pieceinwater-based oils.
Shefavourspaletteknives to build arich and texturedsurface
and incorporates oil sticks for the vivid coloursand blazing sunsetsaround theRanges.
This exhibition features both large andsmall works. Allpieces celebratethe artists’mission: to bring abundantcolour and light into homes and working spaces. Itta invites youtoexperience the Macedon Ranges anew–
seen through theeyesofan artist who walks its trails and paints with joy– in her exhibition, which opens TuesdayJune 2and closes SundayJuly 5
TheGallery is open 10am to 4pm FridaytoTuesdayat 684 Mt Macedon Road,Mount Macedon (behind the Trading Post).
Women’s health General Practitioners:
•DrEmma Haugh
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Our experienced women’s health doctorsprovidesafe, comfortable and supportivecarewithshortwait times and afocus on your wellbeing.
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Internationally acclaimed accordion virtuoso James Crabb. Photo:ChristofferAskman
Dressupyourshopfrontsand windows
Local businesses and community groupsacross the Macedon Ranges areinvited to dress up their shop fronts and windows in celebration of Pride Month.
Theannual rainbowwindows competition is being organised by Omnia Community Health inpartnership with Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil.
Omnia Community Health’s RhaniDean-Talbett explained thatthe rainbowwindows competition is away thatlocal organisations can come together andvisibly showtheir support forthe LGBTIQA+ community
“Pride is built on people standing up and being seen, so we invitepeople to getcreative, have some fun, and put on an eye-catching displaythatcelebrates inclusion!”
Registrations arebeing taken up until SundayJune 14, and the first 20 registrations will receivea free pride pack with resourcestohelp with their display.
Windows can be decorated with pridecolours, flags, symbols, and messages and therewill be prizes up forgrabs for the mostcreativeentries with winnersbeing announced at the
end of June.
To register your business in the rainbowwindows competition, visit the website: www.sunburycobaw.org.au/rainbow-windows-2026
Also as part of Pride Month, local business and community membersare invited to take part in afreeonline rainbow inclusion training session.
Taking placenextWednesdayJune 10 between 3pm and 4.30pm, theinteractivetraining will build theknowledge, confidence, and practical skills needed to create safe,inclusive, and affirming environments forLGBTIQA+ people.
To register your place, go to www.sunburycobaw.org.au/ pride-month-2026.
Omnia Community Health also holds amonthly rainbow coffee club forLGBTIQA+ adults in Romsey,Sunbury and Kynetonand this month anyone attending will receivea free coffee and cake.
Contact Omnia Community Health on 5421 1666 or email: pride@omniach.org.au formoreinformation. KynetonKindergarten’s entryfrom2025.
Last year’sTrivia Nightwas asellout last year,so organisersadvise early bookings.
Amillion stories
In eightdecades sincethe end of the Second World War, Australiahas welcomed to its shores an estimatedone million people fleeing persecution, warand civil strife.
In acknowledgementofthis achievement, the RefugeeCouncil of Australia has chosen, forthis year’sRefugee Week, the theme of ‘A Million Stories’
Macedon Ranges RuralAustralians for Refugees will mark the week with ameeting of its book club on June 18 at the600 Above wine bar in High Street Woodend. Meeting is open to all-comers. Thefeaturedbook, Cactus Pear ForMyBeloved by Palestinian Australian author and playwrightSamah Sabawi, is in stock at both Woodend Bookshop and Aesop’s AtticinKyneton Attendanceisfreebut registrations are essential.
Playwright, screenwriter and Kyneton resident, Kim Ho,hosts theclub in what he describes as ‘a low-stakes, welcoming environment’ with informal discussion and ‘no homework or quizzes’. Fordetails contact: mrrar.refugees@gmail.com
Forthose who do enjoyquizzes: The return, by popular demand, of MRRAR’sTrivia Nightshould prove afun-filledand enjoyable evening. It will mark thebeginning of Refugee Week on SaturdayJune 13 at Norma Richardson Hall,15 Buckland Street,Woodend. Doorsopen at 6.30pm fora 7pm start.BYO drinks, nibblesand glasses.
Entry is $25 per head with all funds being donated forthe support of refugees and asylum-seekersinAustralia.
Individuals, couplesand groups areall welcome and tables of eightare available. The eventwas asellout last year,soorganisers advise early bookings on: www.trybooking. com/DLMOC
Brigade leaders
Captain Brian Hornbuckle has been reelected to his leadership role at NewhamFire Brigade. Other officers elected at the recent annual meeting are: 1st Lieutenant—Fergus Chisholm; 2nd Lieutenant— KarenMeridith-Thomas; 3rd Lieutenant— Valerie Hornbuckle; 4th Lieutenant— RichardCameron-Kennedy Equipmentofficer —Lachlan McMahon; T/O— Andrew Campbell. Community safety officer— Jane Larsen. OH&S —Carissa Hoich. Secretary and treasurer —Allan Chiong.
Helping farmsthriveina changing climate
AsymposiuminBendigothismonth is bringing farmerstogether with ecologists, agricultureexpertsand Traditional Owners to explorehow nature-based solutions can help farms thriveinachanging climate
TheNatureonFarms Symposium will be held on June 12-13 featuring aday of expert presentations at La Trobe University Bendigo, aconferencedinner with Dr Anika Molesworth at the AllSeasons Hoteland full-dayfarm tour of the Bendigoregion featuring Bear and Twigg and DJAKITJ.
Presentations will covertopicsincluding farm dam enhancement, grazing managementfor productivepastures, growing traditional nativefoods, landscape rehydration and howbiodiversity contributes to productivefarming. Ticketsare available at biolinksalliance.org.au/nature-on-farmssymposium
MAJOR NEW PROGRAM
Theevent launches anew major Nature on Farms program, operating across central Victoria, which aims to help farmersbuild resiliencetodroughtand climateextremes while preserving habitatfor wildlife.
Afederally funded initiativeled by local not-for-profit Biolinks Alliance, Natureon Farms supports farmersacross the region to build climateresiliencebyholistically enhancing thehealth of their farm landscape.
Challenging long-held assumptions that agricultureand naturemustexist in opposition, theNatureonFarms programoffers solutions to improve overall farm health and
long-term viability in the face of intensifying climate pressures by protecting and enhancing natural features on thefarm.
SamWhite of Sidonia Beef,one of the demonstration farmerstaking partinthe program, explains whatbuilding resilience means forfarmersreckoning with extreme and unpredictable climateconditions.
“Tous, resiliencemeans our kids will have afarm that theywill want to work on and thatwill be financially viableintothe future,"hesaid.
Tendemonstration farms in threekey
farming regions from KynetontoBirchip will showhow working with natural systems can help support aproductive andsustainable agricultural practicebyprotecting the biodiversity thatunderpins long-term farm health.
On-ground demonstrations, workshops and acomprehensiveresource hubwill inspireand empowerlocal farmersnomatter wheretheyare in their journey.
This project received funding from the Australian Government’sFutureDrought Fund.
Just AFarmerscreening brings mental healthawarenesstoGisborne
TheMacedon Ranges Suicide Prevention Action Group invites the community to attend afreeevent in support of Men’sHealth Week this month.
Held on FridayJune 19, the eventwill featuredinner,music, a guest speaker and ascreening of Just aFarmer –anaward-winning film thatcreates conversations thatsavelives.
As featured on ABC’s Australian Story,the film createdbyAustralian filmmaker Leila McDougall portrays the challenges and triumphs of aresilientfarmer in rural Australia, shining alightonthe trials manygrowers andproducersfaceinregional, remote andrural communities.
Just AFarmer has movedmanyaudiences across Australia, with attendees calling it “a must-watchfor every ruralcommunity”
Thefilm has sparked morethan three million mental healthconversations across Australia and has been recognised internationally forits powerful portrayalofrural life and suicide prevention.
This eventisfreeand open foreveryone in the community to attend, regardless of gender.The film is ratedMand contains mature themes, suicide themes and coarse language.
“Weencourageeveryone to come along to this event, especially farmersand men in our community whomay notoften have the opportunity to come together,connect,and talk openly about mental
health,”said Fiona Lawford, Treasurer,MRSPAG
This eventissupported by the generosity of local sponsorsand partners, Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil, Jellis CraigFoundation, Gisborne Secondary College, TheOutback Foundation, Macedon Ranges Ag Machinery and Huizing Harvest
On the night, guest speaker Aaron Schultzfromthe Outback Mind Foundation will sharehis story and insights into hismission of building emotional literacy,strengthening wellbeing and reducing harm in regional communities.
Screening info:
Location: Barcham TheatreatGisborne Secondary College
Address: 95 Melton Rd,Gisborne
Date:FridayJune 19
Time: Doors5.45pm, followedbymovie screening at 6.45pm
Tickets: events.humanitix.com/just-a-farmer-screening-n8pweg3e or via www.mrspag.com.au
If youorsomeone youknowneeds support, phone:Lifeline –24/7 crisis support service– 13 11 14 or text 0477 131 114 Suicide call back service– 24/7 free professional phone or online counselling –1300 659 467 MensLine Australia –24/7 family and relationship concerns –1300 789 978
RSVP: To registeryour attendance please usethe QR code provided, or thecontact detailsbelow.
Phone: 1800 333 362
Email: estate.engagement@defence.gov.au
Photo:KaraFinlay
CPAstatement on bargaining incentive
Country Press Australia supports the core purpose of the News Bargaining Incentive: encouraging major digital platforms to enterintofair commercial agreements witheligible Australian news publishers.
TheNBI must remain focused on thatobjective. Regional, rural and independentpublishershavebeenamong those mostexposed to themarket powerofglobal digital platforms. They employjournalists, produce public interest journalism, servelocal communities and carry the responsibilities of professional news publishing.
It is thereforeessential thatthe NBIdeliverspractical support to these publishers, not solely to thelargest media organisations.
CPAsupports sensible measuresthatensuresmall and medium-sized publishersare not excluded from commercial agreements.
We recognise concerns thatplatforms could seek to satisfytheir obligations through a limited number of agreements with major media companies.
Thescheme should be designed to encouragefair commercial arrangements withgenuine regional, rural and independentpublishersthatproducecoverednews contentand employ professional journalists. However, CPAisconcerned by proposals to divert aportion of NBI levy funds into adiscretionary grants program.
TheNBI is notintended to operateasageneral media grants scheme. Itspurpose is to incentivise commercial agreements between platforms and eligible news publishers.
Wherea platform choosesnot to enterintosufficientcommercial agreements and a charge is collected, those funds should be returned directly and transparently to eligible news publishersthatare investing in journalism
Diverting NBI funds into asupplementary grants pool would fundamentally alter the character of the scheme.
It risks transforming the NBIfromabargaining incentiveintoa revenue-raising mechanism followedbygovernmentredistribution.
Such ashift would create significantpolicy risks and strengthen arguments from platforms thatthe scheme is effectively atax rather than an incentivetosupport commercial agreements fornews
If governmentwishes to support news deserts, emerging publishers, communitymedia, multicultural media or underrepresentedvoicesthrough grantfunding, thatobjectiveshould be pursued through aseparateprogram and appropriation, such as the News Media AssistanceProgram. It should notbefunded by carving moneyout of the NBI.
CPA'sposition is clear
AnyNBI distribution mechanism should remain directly tied to eligible news businesses, the production of coverednews content, professional editorial standards and the employmentofjournalists.
Funds collected under the NBIshould be returned to thenews sector through atransparent, objectiveand journalist-based distribution model,rather than diverted into adiscretionary grants pool. Thesurvival of regional and independentjournalism is tooimportantfor the NBI to be diluted or redirected.
Thescheme must remain focused on itsoriginal purpose: ensuring thatglobal digital platforms thatbenefit from Australia's news ecosystemprovide meaningful support to the professional publishersand journalists who sustain it.
Anew addition to this year’sCastlemaine Documentary Festival, TheLove Compilations brings the festival’s2026 theme, Love – theantidote,tolifethrough the voices of the communityitself
Inspired by pioneering 1970s video artist Wendy Clarke’slandmark Love Tapes project, thework invites people from Castlemaine and surrounds to speak directly to camera in intimate three-minute reflections on love.Funny, awkward, moving and deeply personal, each recording is presentedinfull and unedited.
Clarke’soriginal project travelled across the United States fordecades, capturing thousands of unfiltered recordings from people of all ages and backgrounds. At CDoc 2026, acurated selection of these original Love Tapes will screen alongside the newlocal recordings, creating a conversation between Castlemaine and a muchlargerarchiveofhuman experience
Festival director ClaireJager said the project grew from adesiretocreate something thatlasts beyond the festival weekend.
“Every year Iask myself: howdowego deeper?” she said.
“Sometimes themost powerful stories aren’t on thescreen– theycome from our audienceand our community. The
Love Compilations is an extension of that, through thelens of love.”
Jagerdescribes the projectasa “living portrait”ofthe region –one thatbuilds on the communitystorytelling spirit behind the festival’slong-running LOCALS short film competition, nowinits fifthyear
“We’ve always believedthe festival belongs to its community,” she said. “We want people to come away feeling seen –and feeling likethey’ve seen each other differently too.”
Theproject will screen across the festival weekend at theTheatreRoyal, Castlemaine ArtMuseumand the Market Building, while aspecial dusk-to-dawn Wimble Wadio Wall projection loop on Wimble Street will transform the side of the Northern Arts Hotelintoa 'drive-in' style video installation, with audiences able to tune in via88.3FM.
In asignificantmilestone, TheLove Compilations will also become the first Australian contribution archived alongside morethan2500 recordings in the original Love Tapes collection at the University of Wisconsin.
Go along and sharethe love at the Castlemaine Documentary Festival, June 26–28 at the TheatreRoyal. Head to www cdocff.com.au formorefestival info
Inspired by nature. For climate. For ourfuture
World EnvironmentDay 2026 will be celebrated on Friday, June 5, focusing on climateaction under the theme Inspired by Nature. ForClimate. ForOur Future
Established by the United Nations, World EnvironmentDay is observed annually to raise global awareness about environmental issues and encourageproactive stepstoward conservation and sustainability.Itserves as aplatform forindividuals, communities and organisations to take responsibility forprotecting the environmentand promoting sustainable practices.
The2026 theme, Inspired by Nature. ForClimate. ForOur Future,emphasises urgent climate action, highlighting the interconnected crises of climate changeand ecosystemdegradation. Thecampaign encourages global citizens to rethink economic systems, reducecarbon emissions, and restorethe balancebetween humans and nature. Across centralVictoria, local councils, environmental groupsand residents areall working to playa part in conservation and sustainability.
Projectworkstoconnect localgrowers
Increasing food resilience, eating moreinseason fruit and vegetables and reducing food miles is whatKyneton BackyardGrowers does best.
Since2023, every Sunday10am12pm local growers will donate or swap their homegrownproduceatthe KynetonLions Kiosk at the Mechanics Reserve.
KynetonBackyardGrowers is a project of the KynetonTransition Hub, which is an action group of the Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group
TheGrowers'motto is Kyneton Feeding Kyneton– the project is working to connect local growers to contributetoits weekly Sundaystall andshare with the rest of the community World EnvironmentDay season brings manydifferentleafy greens, Jerusalem artichoke, quince, rhubarb, sage, rosemary,parsley, snowpeas, pumpkins, chardand some lemons coming to the stall.
Followthe project @Kyneton. Backyard.GrowersonInstagram and Facebook.
Do youlikegrowing vegetables and fruit?Ordoyou have atreethatneeds harvesting? Do youneedaccess to fresh fruit and veg? Go along and visit the GrowersonSunday10am-12pm, or if youneed your producepicked up or dropped off, call Lenka on 0425 786 377 or email kyneton.backyard.growers@mrsg.org.au
Author’s
talk
Trentham Sustainability Group is hosting aspecial eventfor World EnvironmentDay with Thom Woodroofe who isa Senior International Fellow with the Smart Energy Council.
Thom will outline whatwecan do as a community to help influencethe debate on Climate Changewithin Australia and howwecan achieve afairer and more equitable pathway forall Australians to benefit from asustainable future.
Thom’s newbook, Power, Prosperity and Planet: Climateand Energy Policy ForAll,isa guideline forindividuals and communities on howtobecome involved and help the required transition to abetterfuture– one thataddresses Climate Change, protectsthe Environmentand provides fora moreprosperous Australia forall
Thom has had extensiveexperience working with Pacific Island Nations to help shapethe Paris Agreementon Climate Changein2015 and offers us a unique insightintowhatsmall nations and individuals can achieve despitethe seemingly overwhelming challenges. Relocating backhome to Woodend; Thom nowbrings this experience to benefit all local communities throughoutAustralia.
Tea/coffee and nibbles provided. BYO drinks.
FridayJune 5, 5.30 –6.30pm
Trentham Neighbourhood Centre 56 High St,Trentham
Community bulk buy launches
Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group treasurer Ralf
Night.
TheMacedon Ranges Sustainability Group is spearheading a community-led Heat Pump HotWater System Bulk Buy, coordinatedwith trusted partner t2zeroand supported by Reclaim Energy
This initiativesupports atransition away from gas appliances— driven by climate,health and energy-cost considerations—toward electric appliances poweredbyrenewables.
Community-led programs likethishelp households access modern, efficienttechnologies at reduced cost.
Whyheatpumps?Heatpump technology deliversreliable hot waterwith far lowergreenhouse gas emissions than gas systems, contributes to better indoor air quality, andleverages advancing electric efficiency
Theprogram provides access to apremium, Australian-made heatpump brand thatisquiet, efficient, and well-suited to the region’s climate,with installations planned to be completedby November 30, 2026.
TheBulk Buyincludes notable savings and incentives, such as up to $950 in savings per system, plus additional regional bonuses and rebateswhereapplicable.
MRSG,alocal community group focused on sustainable living and energy solutions via its action group, Go Renewable Energy Group (GREG) andtrusted partners, has been evaluating and selecting high-quality installerstodeliver durable, long-lasting solutions at community-friendly pricing, with expert consultations available to all interested households.
Homeownersinterested in acommunitybulk buy areencouraged to register their interest by visiting the program’s information page.
Formoreinformation, visit: t2zero.com.au/bulk-buy or call: Jürgen at 0436 220 220.
Smallstepsmake abig difference
From humble beginnings in 2011, Plastic Free July has become an annual month of global change, whereindividuals, communities and organisations come together to take action to reduceplastic waste. By sharing ideas, positiveactions and stories of change, Plastic Free July helps people “choose to refuse”single-use plastic every day.
Healthy Landscapes
Every small step we taketoavoid single-use plastic can makea big difference towards: •Protecting theocean •Reducing consumption and production •Avoiding landfill waste• Connecting communities fora world without plasticwaste
As an official council member, Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil is actively supporting
TheHealthy Landscapes program works with farmers to supportthemtoimprove allaspects of their property’s environment.
With fuel andfertiliserpricescontinuingtorise andoperating costs increasing across the board, the Healthy Landscapes Grazing courses help farmers manage their grazing properties with lower inputs whilemaintaining or improving productivity
Thecoursesare designedtohelpyou identify andimplement practical land management practices to improveyour grazing,productivity,soilhealth, biodiversity,and waterway health.
the communitytochoose to refuse singleuse plastic directly as well as pledging to makea differencebyeliminating single-use plastic from its officesand events
ThePlastic Free July challengeprovides resourcesand ideas to help participants (millions around theworld)reducesingleuse plastic wasteevery dayathome, work,
school and in the community Getting started is as easyaschoosing one single-use plastic item to avoidorswap fora reusable alternative. Formoreinformation and free resources, head to thePlastic Free July website, which is agreat placeto getinspiration and support,and to share your tips, ideas and experiences.
Environment Events
Councilhosts environment and biodiversity eventsall year roundto help residents connect, protect andimprove ourunique environment.
Upcoming events
Community-led Rabbit Management workshop
Arerabbits causingchaos on yourproperty? Learnhow to tackle rabbit infestations using arange of control methods. Wednesday 24 June at 9.30am -Lancefield
‘Revegetating Your Property’
In celebration of National Tree Day2026, join us forone of our revegetation events:
1/ Onlinesession: this webinar will cover site preparation andplant selection, as well as tipstohelpyou increase biodiversityonyourproperty
Tuesday 14 July at 12.30pm
2/ Walk‘n’ Talk (Gisborne): this walk alongJacksons Creek will help you discoverdifferent techniques andmethods you canuse to support your own revegetation project.
Friday 24 July at 1pm
Thesing, MRSG/GREG actiongroup leader and Community Awardnominee Stephen Pepper, MRSG/VegAction/Edgy Vegaction group leader ClaireRowland, andMRSG committee member LaurenTyrell arepictured at the recent Macedon Ranges ShireCommunity Awards
Usesolartooffset your impact
As energy prices continue to rise and morehouseholds look forwaysto reducetheir environmental footprint,Central SparkKynetonand Castlemaine is helping residents across centralVictoria install solar powerand batteries.
Specialising in tailored solar solutions forhomes, farms and businesses, the local companyinstalls everything from solarpowersystems and battery storagetooff-grid setups and EV chargers throughoutthe central goldfields and midlands region.
Butaccording to area manager Paul Blackman, the benefits of solar extend farbeyondlowerelectricity bills.
“People install solar these days primarily forthe financial savings,”he said.
“But every solarsystemalso createsenvironmental savings, and you can producea positive environmental impact with anysizesystemyou install.”
Mr Blackman said homeownersconcerned about the carbon emissions generated through everydayactivities —particularly those thatcannot yetbefully poweredbyrenewable energy —could use solar to help offset thatimpact
“Byinstalling alargersolar powersystem, youcan offset aspects of your lifestyle thatyou can’t solar power, such as plane travel foroverseas holidays,petroland diesel vehicles, machinery and gas appliances,”hesaid.
He said anyunused powergenerated by household solar systems was fedbackintothe electricity grid, helping reducerelianceonfossil fuels morebroadly
“Anything extrayourhousehold doesn’t use goes back into the grid, and everythingthatgoes into the grid helps reducecarbon emissions,”he said. "Noelectron goes to waste."
“Ifyou install moresolar powerthan youneed in your home, then you’vealready createdthatpositiveenvironmental impact.”
With interest in battery storageand electric vehicle charging continuing to grow,Central SparkKynetonsaysmoreregional households arelooking at solar notonly as afinancial investment, but also as apractical step toward amoresustainable future.
Anyone wanting to calculate their carbon emissions can visit: carbonpositiveaustralia.org.au/calculate
This systemonadesigner home in Campbells Creek will generate74kWh aday (five timesthe averagehome)to provide full large home powerinc. water pumps and air-conditioning, independentofthe grid, during long power outages.
Backing clubstokeep Victorians safe on roads
AFL Victoria, in partnership withthe Transport AccidentCommission is backing grassroots football and netball clubs across the state to help keep Victorians safe on ourroads.
The2026 TACClub Rewards Programwas launched last week at Timboon Football NetballClub, with the programinviting clubs to apply fora shareof$700,000 to deliver community initiatives thathelpinfluencebehaviour and save lives.
Nowinits seventhyear, theprogram will focus on speeding, encouraging clubs to lead by example withthe message: "Bethe Difference. Make the RightChoice.SlowDownonthe Road."
Clubs canapply forupto$10,000 to invest in projects thatstrengthen their club and support safercommunities. Funding can be used to improve transport options, upgrade facilities or deliver local road safety initiatives.
Last year,320 clubs across Victoria received funding through the program, continuing strong participation from communities across the state.
Among the recipients were Timboon Demons FNC, Sebastopol FNC, Garfield FNC and Cheltenham FC,demonstrating the role localclubs can play in making road safety part of everyday conversations.
Theprogram comesasVictoria continues to focus on reducing road trauma, with 105 lives lost on Victorian roadssofar this year,including 62 deaths in regional areas.
Football and netball clubs areatthe
centre of communities across Victoria, withplayers,volunteersand supporterstravelling on the sameroads every week.
Programs likeClub Rewardsare helping communities look out forone another and encouraging saferdecisions on and offthe field.
More information on the TACClub RewardsProgram: play.afl/victoria/tacclubrewards
Head of AFL Victoria Greg Madigan said football and netball clubs were trusted partsofcommunities right across Victoria.
"This programsupports clubs to lead by example andcreateaculture where looking out foreach other extends beyond the field," he said.
Minister forRoads and Road Safety andCommunitySport,Ros Spence,said local football and netball clubs playean importantrole in bringing communities together and helping influencepositive change.
"This programisbacking clubs to start importantconversations and encouragesafer choices thatcan help reducetrauma on our roads,"she said.
TACCEO Tracey Slattersaid the TAC sawthe impactofroad trauma every dayand remained focused on supporting people through recovery while helping preventthese incidents from happening in the first place.
"Programs likeClub Rewardshelp take road safety into communities, whereimportantmessagescan have a real impact,"she said.
30 km/htrials funded forresidential streets
TheVictorian Governmenthas announced safety upgrades forlocal roadsand streets, including funding to support 30km/h speed limit trials across Victoria.
RMIT urban researcher Dr Afshin Jafari –lead author of a2025 study on lower residential speed limitsinGreater Melbourne –said his modelling found reducing residential street limits from 50 km/h to 30 km/h could improve cycling safety while having little impact on typical car travel times.
“People oftenassume 30 km/h will add alot of time, but most journeysdon’t stayonresidential streetsfor long. In our modelling, the averageshort local trip increased by about aminute,"DrJafari said.
“Slowertraffic makes riding less stressful, which canencouragemorepeople to choose walking or cycling forshort local trips.
“Lowerspeed limitsare apractical, low-cost step. Physical separation is ideal, but it’sexpensiveand slowtoroll out.
– Dr Afshin Jafari is aVice-Chancellor'sPostdoctoral Research FellowatRMIT's Centre forUrban Research with expertise in activetravelbehaviourand urban data analytics and modelling.
Local football and netballclubs playeanimportantroleinbringing communities together and helping influence positive change.
mtoring
Thinking of buyinganelectricvehicle?
Electric vehicles arenolonger aniche option in Australia. With fallingprices, more brands entering the market,home charging options and arapidly expanding charging network, EVsare nowa realistic choicefor manyhouseholds as afirst or second car Butdeciding whether an EV is rightfor youdepends on morethan headline range figures or advertised prices.
Confidencecomes from understanding the practical realities of EV ownership: how faranelectric carwill go in real-world conditions, howand whereyou cancharge an EV daytoday,whatitcosts to buy and run, and howwell an EV fits your driving habits, household needs and budget
“For most Australians, choosing an electric vehicle isn’t about drivetrain technology,” says RACV head of policy James Williams. “It’sabout running costs, safety, everydaypracticality and confidence. We encouragedrivers to look beyond headline rangefigures and focus on howanEVwill perform in real–world conditions, howit will be chargedday to day, andhow it fits their lifestyle.”
What is an electric vehicle?
An electric vehicle is acar poweredby abattery and electric motorinstead of apetrolordiesel engine. Most EVscan be chargedathome, at work or at public charging stations.
Compared with petrol, hybrid and diesel vehicles, EVstypically have fewermoving parts, deliver smooth and quietdriving, and can be cheapertorun —particularly when chargedathomeand especially in conjunction with solar panels and asolar battery
Cheapest and bestelectric carsin Australia
EV prices have become farmorecompetitive, witha growing number of SUV, hatchand sedan models nowtargeting budget-friendly pricepoints. When choosing an EV,it’simportanttolook beyond the headline priceand consider:
Real-world driving range
Safetytechnology(including eCall) and ANCAP ratings
Warranty coverage,especially forthe battery
Servicing requirements and dealer network
Howthe vehicle fitsyour everydaydriving
Australia nowhas moreelectric vehicle brands on sale than ever before.Established players such as Tesla, BYD, Kia, Geely and MG accountfor the bulk of EV sales, driven by popular models likethe Tesla Model Yand Model 3, BYDSealion 7, Seal, Dolphin and Atto 2, Geely EX5 and Kia EV3 and EV5.
Together,Teslaand BYDmade up more than half of all EV sales in Australia in 2025. Chinese and newmanufacturers have become amajor forceinthe local EV market,increasing pricecompetition and choice.
Forbuyers, this means thereare now credible EV options across most budgets and vehicle types —fromsmall hatchbacks and SUVs to family mid-sizeSUVs.
Premiumbrands such as BMW, Mercedes–Benz, Porsche, Volvoand Polestar arealso expanding their electric line–ups
Victoria’s in-car screen anddevicelawsexplained
Modern vehicles areincreasingly equipped with sophisticatedtouchscreens, navigation systems andconnected technologies.
Butinbuiltdevices arestill subject to strict road rulesinVictoria.
Misusing acar'stouchscreen or infotainmentsystemcan lead to fines, demerit points and an increased crash risk. VicRoads reports thatifyou takeyour eyes offthe road forjust twoseconds while travelling at 50 km/h, you’ll travel about 27 metres effectively blind.
Understanding the rules is essential not only to avoidfines, but to reducedistraction and improve road safety
An inbuilt devicereferstoany system thatispermanently installed in the vehicle by the manufacturer, andcannotberemoved likea portable device.
Inbuilt devices typically include: infotainmenttouchscreens, integrated navigation systems, digital dashboards and driver displays,built-in media and audio controls, and climate controlinterfaces displayedon screens.
Unlikeportable or mounteddevices, inbuilt systems aredesigned to be part of the driving experience –but thatdoesn't mean unrestricted use.
When can Iuse or touch my inbuilt system?
Driversona full licencecan briefly touch their vehicle's inbuilt deviceto: adjust volumelevels, playorstream audio material, initiate,accept or reject an audio call, use a navigation function, use afunction on the devicedesigned to provide driver assistance or to help operatethe vehicle, and use a function on the devicedesigned to monitor the driver'sbehaviour or condition.
When can't Iuse or touch my inbuilt system?
When driving, except when parked, driversmustnot: enterinformation, text, numbers or symbols (unless using voicecontrol) scroll on the device initiate or accept video calls display, read or writetextmessages, emails, or posts displayorviewwebsites, social media or photos watch movies, TV,video games or other moving images.
Arethe rules forinbuilt devices different forLearner,P1and P2 drivers? Learner,P1and P2 driverscan briefly touch their inbuilt devicetoadjust navigation settings, climate controls and audio functions (suchasthe radio).
If you'reunsurewhether youcan use your inbuilt devicefor acertain task, pullover safely first.
across varying body styles, while BYD’s premium brand Denza has launched itsfirst twomodels, the Denza B5 and Denza B8, and has along-term plan tobecome the market-leading luxury car brand in Australia.
Australia's best-selling electric cars, SUVsand utes
As of April 2026, Australia's best-selling electric vehicles areasfollows:
Tesla Model Y
BYDSealion 7
Zeekr 7X
Tesla Model 3
Geely EX5
Kia EV5
BYD Atto 2
Jaecoo J5
BYD Atto 1
MG S5
BYD Atto 3
Kia EV3
New electric vehicles,SUVs and utes coming to Australia in 2026
As moremodels flood the market in 2026, Australian drivershave moreelectric vehicle choices than ever before These are some highly-anticipatedEVsarriving soon:
Mazda6e
MazdaCX-6e
BMW iX3
Geely EX2
GAC Aion UT
MG4 EV Urban
How to shopand compare EVsin Australia
RACV Car Match lets youcompare electric vehicles side-by-side by price, range, size, features and estimated running costs, helping youcreate andnarrow your shortlist with confidence. Visit www.racv com.au/car-match
Swap meet,market and more
Maldon is settohost aseries of community events throughout June, beginning with the Working HorseDaysat the Maldon Machinery Museum during the King’sBirthday long weekend.
Theevent will takeplaceonSaturdayand Sunday, June 6 and 7, showcasing traditional working horse demonstrations and heritagemachinery displays
Thefollowing weekend, the Maldon Market will beheld at the Maldon Neighbourhood Centre on Sunday, June 14, featuring arangeoflocal stalls andcommunity activities.
Themonth will conclude with the Maldon June Swap Meet,which organisersexpectwill attractmorethan 350 sites and visitorsfromacross the region.
Theswapmeetwill catertobothbuyersand sellers, with vendorsable to bring awide rangeofitems including records, tools, signs, bottles, militaria, vehicle parts and farming equipment. Organiserssaid no advancesitebookings are required, withample room available forstallholders.
Sellersare encouraged to set up on Saturdayahead of the Sundayevent,witha free courtesy bus operating into Maldon township, wherevisitorscan access local hotels, restaurants and liveentertainment. Food and refreshments will also be available at thevenue through the local fishing club.
Forthose unable to setuponSaturday, access forSunday morning setupwill be available before 7am. Site fees are $25 fora 6m x6mspace, with tables also available forhire.
Theswapmeetopens to thepublic at 7am on Sunday. Entry is $5, with children admittedfree. Organiserssaid the eventwould proceed in all weather conditions and would include food vendors, coffee stalls and on-siteparking.
Visitorsare also encouraged to attend the Maldon Marketfollowing the swap meet, withbotheventstaking place within close proximity of the township.
Organiserssay the June calendar highlights Maldon’s continued focus on community events throughoutthe winterseason.
TheBlackbirdEcho will provide asophisticatedsoundscapefor theRotary Castlemaine Art Show GalaOpening this Thursday.
Art Show opens
The37th Annual Rotary Castlemaine ArtShow will be formally launched at aGala Opening event at Castlemaine Town Hall this Thursday.
Theexhibition will featurehundredsofartworks in arangeofmediums by artists from across Victoria and beyond.
Artloversare asked to note this year'slaunch will takeplaceatthe newtime of 5pm to 7pm.
Featuring delicious finger food,bar andgreat musical entertainment, the Gala Opening is a popular eventwith artists and othersalike,with the opportunity to purchase your favouriteartwork before the public opening on Fridaymorning. Entertainmentwill be provided by TheBlackbird Echo, acentral-west Victorian duo combining jazz, soul, country and blues influences fora smooth and innovativeinterpretation of covers and unique original music.
Presentation of prizes will begin at 6.15pm. Gala Ticketsare available at the door for$25 and include acomplimentary drinkonarrival.
Theexhibition will be open daily from 10am throughout thelongweekend, June 5-8.
Voices for reconciliation
PubSing is proud to present Voices forReconciliation at the Taproom in Castlemaine, as partofthe Reconciliation Australia annual national choirsproject.
This will be their fourth year participating in this beautiful collectivebig sing, which occurs in hundreds of communities across the country
Thesongthis year is MidnightOil'siconic land rights anthem Beds areBurning.particpants will learn aspecial threepart arrangementoverthe course of the night, and then belt it out wholeheartedly,singing up DjaDja Wurrung country together
Join in this shared intention to honour the oldest living cultureonearth, support truth-telling about the history of this country,and takemeaningful action as allies alongside First Nations people.
Friday, June 5, from er St,Castlemaine
Ticketsat: www.try
FirstNations folk ar entry
PubSing donatestoN dation from ticket sales.
TheMaldon Swap Meet is expected to attract morethan 350 sites and visitors from acrossthe region
MIDLAND Property &Living
Peaceful countryliving on three acres
Property: Qualityfamily home on three acres
Address: 90 Amess Road, Riddells Creek
Price: $1,500,000 –$1,600,000
Agent: Raineand Horne Gisborne
Contact: Todd Penning 0475 707 580
Set in aquiet and picturesquepocketjust moments from theheart of Riddells Creek, this qualityfamily home deliversthe perfect blend of space, comfort and country charm on approximately three acres (1.06ha).
Privately positioned down asealed road,astrikingbrick entranceand sweeping drivewaywelcome youtoahomestead-style residence, complete withafull-length verandah –ideal forsoaking in the serene surrounds.
Inside, the home is thoughtfully designed forfamily living, featuring four spacious bedrooms. Thegenerous master suiteincludes awalk-in robe and ensuitewithbath, while the remaining bedrooms arefitted withbuilt-inrobes and serviced by acentral bathroom.
Theheart of the home offers alight-filled open plan kitchen, meals and spacious lounge/dining space. With awell-appointedkitchen including gas and electric appliances, dishwasher and awalk-in pantry/store
Comfort is assured year-round with awood heater, three reverse-cycle split systems, ceiling fans,and electric slab heating in thekitchen and living zones.
Step outside and enjoythe lifestyle this property affords. An outdoor entertaining area overlooks established grounds, while thelandisdivided into twopaddocks and includes a chook pen and yard –perfect forhobbyfarming or simplyenjoying thespace
Offering apeaceful rural lifestyle without sacrificing convenience, this impressiveproperty is just minutes from the townshipand train station.
$3,500,000 View
Built from solid granite in c1854 as the homestead of amixed farm of orchards, dairy,forge and grazing, and extended with French Provincial intent in the mid-1990s, this is aproperty that earns its scale and earns your heart. On approximately 191.6 acres at the foot of Mount Alexander
0473 642 644
$1,450,000
bedroom brick home sits elevated and private, pulled back from the road as though it has always known its place in the landscape. To the rear,the bush simply begins
Haslam 0422 848 662 Coastal Character,Country Outlook 9Pardalote Place, Castlemaine
Period Charm, Contemporary Ease 4Silver Street, Campbells Creek Aclassic weatherboardcottage on agenerous 587sqm (approx) block, this property delivers the character and street presence of aperiod home with the comfort of considered contemporary updates. An ideal first home or investment property in awellconnected, community-minded neighbourhood. $695,000
From the street, this home announces itself clearly White weatherboard,white fence, agabled roofline with adistinctive triangular clerestory window set into the peak, the design language is coastal, considered and immediately at odds with what you might expect to find in central Victoria. The countryside starts at the back fence.
Some homes ask you to live moredeliberately,more lightly,morefully.This is one of them. Positioned within The Paddock, Castlemaine’sbenchmark ecovillage community,this four-bedroom, two-storey townhouse is aseamless fusion of passive solar architecture, premium finishes, and agenuinely connected way of life. $1,100,000
in solid brick in the 1880s, has been thoughtfully converted into athree-bedroom home that keeps faith with its origins: bluestone foundations,slate roof, high ceilings, arch doorways, and the original courtroom at its heart. $895,000
Saturday 6th June 2:30pm-2:50pm
MIDLAND Property &Living
Natural lightand versatility
Commanding aprominentcorner position, this brick residenceunfolds as ahome of surprising scale and versatility,whereinterconnected living zones and adaptable spaces create alayout that has evolvedbeautifully
Awelcoming patio entranceintroduces interiorsfilled with natural light, opening into a substantial L-shaped living and dining domain wheretimber-look flooring and reversecycle heating and coolingbring warmth and everydaycomfort to theheart of the home.
Positioned at thecentreofthe home, the kitchen is both practical and well connected, appointedwith an electric cooktopand wall oven,while overlooking the dining zone to createaneasysense of flowfor everydayliving and entertaining alike. Twowell-proportioned bedrooms branch from thecentral hallway,bothwithbuilt-inrobes, complementedbya study/home office and the centralbathroom with separatetoilet.
Adding awhole extradimension to thepropertyisthe remarkable rear wing. Wrapped in double glazing and complete with its ownreverse cycle system, the thirdbedroom space features an ensuiteand sliding glass doorsopening outdoors. This light-filled retreathas the feel of aprivatepavilion separatefromthe mainhome. Whether envisioned as multigenerational accommodation, creativestudio, teenageretreat or work-from-home sanctuary,it introduces ararelevel of flexibility and independencethatisincreasingly soughtafter
Enhancing everydayefficiency, the home is also equipped witha 6.6kWsolar system, helping to reduceenergy costs while supporting sustainable living.
Framed by low-maintenancegardens and abroad corner presence, the propertyalso incorporates asingle garage/workshop and off-streetparking.
Positioned just 1.7km from the centre of Castlemaine, it offers an effortlessly connected lifestyle moments from cafés, boutiques, transport and the town's vibrantheart. Solidly built, generously proportioned and thoughtfully adaptable, this is ahome thatbalances practical family living withthe freedom to shapespaces around changing lifestyles.
•Moorabool House, circa 1800s—a grand solid-brick residencewith sweeping views across Castlemaine
•Perioddetailsthroughout, renovatedkitchen,hydronic heating and back-to-grid solar with battery
•Decked outdoor area, studio/home office,and established gardens.
ForSale
$1,275,000 View
As advertised
RobWaller |0418 571 130
Blasi Mulholland |0417311 733
16 Parker Street, Castlemaine.
3 a 1 b 405r
•Charming heritagebrick miner’scottageonalevel 405sqm allotment in Commercial 1Zone
•Flexible layout with 3bedrooms, 2living areasand potential for home, studio, consulting roomsorbusiness use.
•Prime location close to schools, cafés, and commercial precinct
ForSale
$655,000 View
As advertised
Blasi Mulholland |0417311 733
RobWaller |0418 571 130
MIDLAND Property &Living
Ahome of privateconfidence
Thereissomething quietly beautiful abouta house thatasks nothing of you. No grand gestureonthe street, no performance. Just black charred timber,a layeredlandscaped garden, and the sense thatwhoeverbuilt this wasthinking carefully about howa lifemightactually be lived.
Designed and built to PassiveHaus standards and oriented due north, this is ahouse built around thelogicofcomfort and conscience. Warmth is retained in the insulatedslab, and double-glazed, thermally broken windows anddoors frame rather than be exposed,while an HRVheatrecovery system works in quiettandem with asplit systemthroughout. A4.2kW integrated solar systemand a20,000-litrewater tank plumbed into the house. Inside, ahyper-ground polished cementfloor runs throughoutthe living areas, withpurewool carpetinall bedrooms. Floor-to-ceiling windows anddoors in the main bedroom and living room flood theinterior with light, dressed in full-length linen curtains andhoneycomb insulatedblinds thatholditall in come evening.
Thekitchen is the considered centre of the home: agenerous stone island bench, blackbutt cabinetry throughout, an integrated fridgeand freezer,and afullsuite of Miele appliances –induction cooktopwithcentral extractor,wall oven and dishwasher
Theopen plan living and dining flowthrough to anorthfacing vine-covereddeckoverlooking the frontgarden, aroom unto itself.The main bedroom continues this relationship with the outside: external access to thedeck, awalk-inwardrobe leading through to awell-appointedensuitewith awalk-in shower, vanity and toilet, and afront garden outlook. Asecond bedroom has its ownexternal access to aprivate rear deck overlooking the garden, abuilt-in desk and considered storage, making it as useful as it is calm. Thethirdbedroom offers builtin robes and the sameunderstatedease. Themain bathroom is composed and complete:afreestanding bath, walk-in shower, vanity and aseparatetoiletwithbasin.
Thelaundry carries thesamepractical intelligence: adedicatedstorage room andexternal access to thesecure double garage, so the working parts of the house arehandled cleanly, withoutinterrupting the rest of it.
Outside, the landscaped garden rewardstime. Therear is private, bamboo screening, asense of enclosure,a zenquality thatthe black cladding of the house only deepens. Thefront garden flows from thedeck and is framed through the living room and main bedroom windows:the vine overhead. Afully automatedirrigation system keeps it all quietly in order,and a raised vegetable garden offers something even morepersonal.
Property: PassiveHaus designed home
Address: 15 Lemon Street,CampbellsCreek
Price: $1,385,000
Agent: Cantwell Property
Contact: TomRobertson 0473 642 644
MIDLAND Property &Living
Effortlessly liveable
This beautifully presentedhome offers awonderfulbalanceofcomfort, practicality and low-maintenanceliving, withnothing left to do but simply move in and enjoy.
Designed to makethe mostofits lovely northerly aspect, the heart of the home is filled with naturallight, withlarge windowsallowing thesun to pourthrough the open plan kitchen, living and dining spaces throughout the day. Finished in amodern neutral palette, the interiorsfeel warm, inviting and effortlessly liveable. Thekitchen has been thoughtfully designed foreverydayfunctionality and is complementedbya generous walk-in pantry,providing excellentstorage and practicality
Thewell-considered floorplan comprisesfour bedrooms, including agenerous primary suitecomplete with walk-in robe and privateensuite, while the remaining bedrooms are serviced by acentral family bathroom. Furtheradding to the home's functionalityisanabundanceofstorage throughout, including aspaciouswalk-in linen cupboard.
Outdoors, the established landscaping has been carefully designed to create an attractiveyet low-maintenance setting, while the undercoverentertaining area to therear provides the perfect spacetoenjoyyear round entertaining withfamily and friends. Gatedside access to thebackyard adds further practicality and flexibility
To the frontofthe home, the verandah enjoys alovely westerly outlook, creating the perfect placetounwind and takeinthe afternoon sunsets.
Additional features include high ceilings, gas ducted heating throughout and adouble garage, further enhancing the comfort and practicality of the home.
Architecturally designed and positioned within aunique eco-community, this award-winning home offers sustainable living with astrong sense of connection and privacy.
•Award-winning architect-designed home
•Three bedrooms with garden outlooks
•Light-filled open plan living
•Privatenorth-facing courtyard
•Study nook and excellentstorage
•8.2 energy efficiencyrating
•5kW solar,EVcharging and dble glazing
•Communitygardens and shared facilities
2Erindale Way, MARONG
@ YourOPINIONS
Let’s levelthe playingfield
John Shaw,Woodend
‘Australian values’havebeengetting agood run lately
Theone thatinterests me is the‘value’ of a‘fair go’.
A‘fair go’assumes adegree of equality of opportunity,a systemthatdoes notdiscriminate against certain groups/individuals, wherepeople aretreated equally by governments.
An unstatedassumption is that the ‘playing field’ is reasonably level.
Over the past25years therehas been adistinctly unlevelplaying field regarding taxation, and the way people deriveanincome.
If your income derives from wages/salaries you aretaxed on the fullamount
If your income derives from thesaleofassets/ capital, only half the income is subject to tax.
In the interests of fairness/fair go,would it be appropriate thatfor the next 25 yearswages/salaries be taxed on half their income, and income from capital/assets attracttax on thefull amount?
Oneofthe keyfactorscontributing to an unlevelplaying field is the existenceoffamilytrusts. A significantadvantageofa trust is that income can be split between family members, and the overall level of tax significantly reduced.
Family trusts arelargely notavailable to wage/ salary earners. Theeffect is thatwageearnershave to paya greatershareofthe tax burden i.e. theysubsidise their non-wage/salary citizens.
This situation has arisen partly as aresult of the vexedissue of ‘aspiration’. Thereappearstobean unstated assumption thatpeople who earn their income from assets/capital aremoreaspirational and should be encouraged/rewarded forbeing aspirational, hencepay less tax.
My view is thatall people areaspirational in the sense of trying to securethe means to afford a reasonable economic existence. I’m all forpeople
SUPER QUIZ?
Local knowledge (1 point)
1. .Whattownwas declared Australia’s first notable town in 1965?
2. Malmsburyhas the oldest botanic gardens in Victoria, in whatyear wasit established?
3. In whatlocal town has McDonalds purchased land?
4. Howmanyfootball premierships have KynetonFNC’s senior men won? (3 points)
5. What localsupermarket is celebrating an anniversary by selling items at cost pricefrom1976?
General knowledge (1 point)
6. What historic eventhappened on July 20th, 1969?
7. Desert Plants,BunnyEarsand Fairy Castle areplants in which variety?
8. Which dogbreed wastraditionally kept by monks in the Swiss Alps to find lost travellers?
9. Howmanybrains does aleech have? (3 points)
10. Which continentcovers allfour hemispheres of the earth?
having the aspiration of working hard, taking responsibility,actually producing something, contributing, saving forthe futureand wanting to getahead.
I’m also keen formyoffspring to aspiretobeing positive, treating othersdecently,trying to do the rightthing, having some non-monetary purpose in lifeand getting some balanceinthe self-interest/ common good equation.
I’m quite comfortable if someone has the aspiration to amass a$10m fortune, whatIdon’t want is my offspring having to subsidise this aspiration (or viceversa)i.e.I want alevel playing field.
As asociety we need to encourageactual production of goods and services, we should notbeencouraging non-productivespeculative investmentthat relies on A.I. (assetinflation)toproduceunearned income.
Back to the‘fair go’— income and wealth inequalityisbecoming morepronounced and withit the greaterinfluenceofthe powerful and already privileged.
Making amoredeterminedeffort to levelthe playing field maywell see Australians having reason to be proud thatour cherished ‘fair go’isanactuality, rather than an aspiration.
Cometoyour senses!
Shirl Locke,Campbells Creek
Re:The Transorbital Method (Opinions, May26)
Poor old Maurie Arty
You’resuch an arty-farty
Do youthink you’rehelping
By ignorantyelping?
Please come to your senses rightsmarty!
Showusthe maths
EvaThieu,Kyneton
It’s honestly mind-blowing that localdesigners Darren Whiteand Wade Trevean were notawarded the tender to design the KynetonSkatepark,especially considering the incredible job theydid with the Romsey Skatepark (‘Local designersedged out’,
CROSSWORD
Midland Express,May 19).
To be clear,I don’t think local businesses should automatically win work simply because they’re local.
Butwhen you’vegot experienced, award-winning designersrighthere in the Macedon Ranges who have alreadyproventheycan deliver an outstanding skatepark forcouncil, it does makeyou wonder whatmorethey actually needed to do.
Andfromwhathas been publicly discussed, thebigger issue appears to be the lack of transparency around council’sprice scoringprocess, which ultimately determined the winning tender
If there’sastraightforwardexplanation forhow the scoring wascalculated, then surely providing thattransparency would put the concerns to bed pretty quickly
Instead, the refusaltoclearly explain the methodology has only created morefrustration and suspicion within the community.
These guyslivehere. They know the local skating community,they knowwhatkids actually want,and theyunderstand the town because they’repart of it –not parachuting in witha consultation slideshowand discovering Kynetonvia Google Maps
What’s even harder to understand is hearing thatcouncil is apparently still seeking assistancefromthe local designersbecause the consultation process has struggled from the beginning.
That feelsabit likenot hiring thechef, then asking him forthe recipe afterwards.
Andthen there’sthe moneyside of it all. We constantly hear about supporting local business and keeping moneywithin the region to stimulate the economy– which ourcommunities need nowmorethanever.
Yetsomehowweend up awarding the project elsewhere, while hearing the projected construction costs arereportedly around $1 million higher than the local proposal anyway
At whatpointdoes“cheaper” stop actually being cheaper?
Because if thecommunityeventually gets askedtohelp bridgethatgap throughfundraising or futurefunding pushes, then ratepayers areeffectively footing the bill while the moneyleavesthe region at thesame time.
Anyone who’s ever renovateda bathroom knows howthis movie usually ends.
Romseyrallied behind itsskatepark because the communitybelievedin the peopledelivering it. Kyneton would have done exactlythe same.
Instead, manylocalsare left feeling frustrated, unheardand wondering whyprovenlocal talentkeeps getting overlooked in favour of outside companies with less connection to the community they’redesigning for.
People don’t want specialtreatmentfor locals –theyjust want transparency,common sense and decisions that genuinely benefit thecommunity. If council is confidentthe maths stacks up, then show us the maths
I’ll bring the abacus.
Ashortsighted ‘silverbullet’
MForbes, Maldon
Irefer to Chris Hooper’sletter(‘Theyshould be homes’, Opinions,May 26).
Iamalocal B&B owner and we areregularly booked out on weekends and have been formanyyears. Tourists staying over multiple nights in the area equatestodollarsbeing spentatlocal businesses. If youtakeaway short-term accommodation options fortourists, local businesses will receiveless income, which equals less abilitytoemploystaff andpossible job layoffs, which equals unemployment, which equals theinabilitytoeven attempttorentorbuy ahouse
Ms Hooper’scomments aresotypical of the shortsighted‘silver bullet’ answer to thehousing crisis. Many people likemeare tryingtoself-fund retirementand howI spendmyinvestmentdollarsshould have nothing to do with anybody else.
Until recently Ialsoowned athree-bedroom two-bathroom townhouse thatI rented out. Over thefiveyears thatI owned it, Ihad three differenttenants. Each tenantlived therealone, leaving twobedrooms unused. Howdoyou propose to fix thatMsHooper? (I would neverown arental propertyagain due to thedifficulties encounteredbyhaving obnoxious tenants.)
If alllevels of governmentdid their job properly and stopped wasting moneyand did something significanttoaddress the housing affordability crisis, things mayimprove.
Don’tleave it up to individuals likeme.
Howdisappointing
B. Reader,Kyneton
Further to the article on May19regarding the skatepark design in Kyneton
Iwould liketosay howdisappointing to read theway council has dealt, or ‘not dealt’,with theissueofawarding the contract andwhen queried, refusing to reveal howthe pricescore wascalculated.
Sadly,now in my 80s, Ihavegrown to see theeroding of accountability and honesty in business aworldwide attitude. Congratulations to Darren andWade, to pursue this forthe benefit forall.
More taxcuts
Lisa ChestersMP, Federal Member forBendigo
Iknowthings aretough formanypeople rightnow,as conflict overseas pushes up prices hereat home
Thefederal Labor governmenthas already done alot of work to help ease the pressureonpeople and withthis Budget, we’retakingthe next steps.
We’redelivering moretax cutsfromJuly1 this year forevery Australian taxpayertohelp with thecostofliving: moretax cutsrolling out now, an extra$250 offworking Australians’tax bills permanently,and a$1000 instanttax deduction without receipts.
Thesetax cutsare on topofcutting fuel taxes to save youmoneywhen youfill up.
This Budget is an important one– delivering moretax cuts, afairgoat buying your ownhome, and strengthening Medicarefor all.
SCHWARZ
Jeremy Peter
05.09.55 -26.05.26
He lived his life to the full, will be remembered for his humour,warmth and love of good company, champagne and vodka martinis.
Beloved husband of Nick, and much-loved brother of Sally and Nigel. Deeply missed and fondly remembered.
Acelebration of life to be advised.
Employment
•Road Worker -Plant Operator, Full time
Learn more:mountalexander.vic.gov.au or phone 5471 1700
KN290180/J
Heather Belinda Harcus 19.10.1929 –25.5.2026
Passed away peacefully at Penhall Hostel, aged96years.
Dearly loved wife of John (dec). Loving Mum to Lynn,Trudi, Megan, Malcolm, Neil and their partners. Nan and Great Nanto12grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren
Weep notthat shehas gone but smile that she has been.
Deaths/Funerals
STRANGE -Annie Evelyn (nee Perryman)
21.12.1927 -24.05.2026
Dearly loved wife of Lance (dec). Loved mother of Merilyn, Jennifer,Kenneth, Esther &Peter Grandmother of 10, Great Grandmother of 18. Rest in Peace United with Dad.
The funeral service ofAnnie Evelyn Strange will be held at TJ Scott and Son Memorial Chapel, 5Piper Street, Kyneton onThursday June 4, 2026, commencing at 1.30pm
Family and friends are invited to attend Heather’s funeralservice to be held in the Chapel of MountAlexander Funerals, 12 Campbell Street, Castlemaine TOMORROW (Wednesday) at 1.00pm. Aprivate cremation will be held. To join us at the service via livestream, please visit Heather’stribute page on the website of MountAlexander Funerals
KN290205/L Castlemaine 54705951 Heather Harcus
Working together for ahealthy, connected shire
15 million Australians read a newspaper every month
Sacred Heart College is aMercy school situated in Kyneton and surrounded by the beautiful Macedon Ranges. The College will educate approximately 920 Students fromYears 7-12 in 2026. Sacred Heart College is committed to promoting the safety wellbeing, andinclusion of all children.
Applications are invited for the following position:
(1.5 FullTime or equivalent Part-Time positions available)
If you enjoy working with andrelate well to young peopleand would like to assist students with additional learning needs to become independent learners, then we wouldlike to receive your application.
This position is a12month replacement position (with the strong possibility of ongoing employment).The positionistostart Monday 13 July 2026 (with alater start possible by agreement)
The Role Description andApplication Form are availableonour website: www.shc kyneton.catholic.edu.au
Please ensure you include acover letter addressedtothe Principal, Dr Darren Egberts
Applications are to be uploaded to ouremployment website no laterthan Tuesday9June2026(4.00pm)
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Principal,DrDarrenEgberts by phoning 5421 1200
AMinistry of Mercy Education Limited ABN 69 154 53 1870
We’re on the lookout for commercially minded SeniorAccountants &aBookkeeper ready to take the nextstep in acollaborative and growth-focused environment
What you’ll bring (SeniorAccountant)
•5+years’recent public practice experience
•Experience managing (or exposure to) client portfolios What you’ll bring(Bookkeeping)
•3+years’strong bookkeeping experience
•Experience managing bookkeeping deadlines
The role at aglance:
•Location:Woodend (regional North-West of Melbourne)
Celebrating our 45th Wedding Anniversary 6th June 2026
Thank you to all those who have come along for the ride.
CAMPBELLS CREEK, 62 Midland Hwy, Sat. & Sun., June 6&7,10am3pm. Household goods & hospital/restaurant/bar equip. (glasses, plates, crockery), vinyl records, clothing, guitars, plants (incl. fruit trees), live bait worms.
Advertiseyour pre loved items in the Midland Express and reach over 50,000 readers every week.
•Clients: SME portfolio (typically up to ~$5m turnover)
Always Remembered
•Focus: End-to-end compliance with growing clientrelationship exposure Join awell-supported, genuinely collaborative team where you’ll have the opportunity to deepen client relationships and broaden your advisory capability –without the city commute.
Email: people@bentleysvic.com.au
*Large quantity of garden stakes $15 (bundle) RMBegg Kyneton Aged Care
To all Shed members, associates and interested non-members:
TheAGM will be held at the Kyneton Men’s Shed, 2Riverwalk Boulevard Kyneton, on Friday,July 3, starting at 11.00 am.
Please note thatonly are permitted to vote. Following theAGM there will be aBBQ luncheon to whichall attendees are invited. Ian Curnow -President Tel0490 814 223
Retail therapy that doesn't cost the Earth! Be acustomer or astallholder Enquire: 0409 794386
CatcurfewintheMountAlexanderShire
FormalStatementofResolution: Council has made anew order under Section25and26 of the Domestic Animals Act 1994
ctiveDate:Theresolution was passedon21April 2026 and is Spec Catcurfew
GeographicScope:
InspectionInformation: at www.mountalexander.vic.gov.au/cat-curfew
To discusst
KN290181/J
KN290198/L
CLASSIFIEDS SERVICES
Public Notices
NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR PLANNING PERMIT
PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENT REGULATIONS 2015 –Schedule 1- Form 2 Section 52(1)(Planning &Environment Act 1987)
The land affected by the application is located at: Diamond Gully RoadMCKENZIE HILL VICTORIA 3451
The application is for a permit to: Removal of vegetation Planning schemeclause Matter for which apermit is required
Apermit is required under the following clauses of the planning scheme:
The applicantfor thepermit is: Mount Alexander Shire Council
The application reference numberis: PA116/2024
VIEW THE APPLICATION:
In Person: You may look at the application and any documents thatsupport the application free of charge at: Civic ServicesBuilding –Castlemaine Corner Lyttleton Street &Lloyd Street 8.30am to 5pm -Monday to Friday
Phone: Planning Enquiries (03) 54711700
Online: Scan the QR Code or visit https://masc.t1cloud.com/T1Default/CiAnywhere/Web/MASC/Public/LogOn/ONLINESERVICES LODGE AN OBJECTION:
Any personwho may be affected by the granting of thepermitmay object or make other submissions to Council.
An objectionorsubmission canbelodged via the online services portal or can be sentinwriting via email or post:
Post: Planning Department –POBOX 185, Castlemaine VIC3450
An objectionmust be made to Council in writing, include thereasons for the objection andstate how the objector would be affected. If youobject, the responsible authority will tell you its decision. The responsible authority mustmakeacopy of every objection available for any person to inspect free of charge until the endofthe period during whichanapplication may be made for review of adecisiononthe application. The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 10-Jun-2026
NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR APLANNING PERMIT
Planning AndEnvironment Act 1987Section 52(1)
An applicationfor aplanning permithas been made which may affect you.
The land affectedbythe application is located at: LOT 89 LP 202774EP/Monegeetta 5Ida Crescent ROMSEY VIC3434
Theapplication is for apermit to: Construction of eight dwellings and vary restrictive covenantM513949F
Clause 32.08-7 –General Residential Zone Constructtwo or more dwellings on alot
Clause 43.02-2-Designand Development Overlay Apermit is required to Construct abuilding or constructorcarry out works.
Clause 52.02 -Easements, Restrictions and Reserves Apermit is required beforeapersonproceed underSection23of the Subdivision Act 1988 to create, vary or remove an easement or restriction, or vary or remove aconditioninthe nature of an easement in aCrown grant.
The applicant for the permit is: Taylors Development Strategists
The applicationreference number is: PLN/2025/341
Officer contact details: (03) 5422 0333
If you wish to view this application or make asubmission using oneoftheseoptions:
In person 40 RobertsonStreetGISBORNEVIC 3437 9:00am –5:00pm
for objections include: Reason/s
The
Covering the Macedon Ranges and MountAlexander Shires
Liam O'Brien (6) stole the showwith a magnificent+5inSaturday'smedleypar event.
He finished three shots clear of the field and took outA-grade by three from Kane Clack (9).
Mark Frankling (15) topped B-grade on +2, with Vin Walsh (13) one behind.
Damien Cassidy (19) continued his consistentform to win C-grade with one over, a shotahead of PeterMangold (23).
PeterMcCoombe and NigelWilson were the NTPs.
Therewas some outstanding scoring on Saturdaymorning, with Julie Cross (16) returning 22 stableford points to edgeout Helen McEwen (14) on acountback. They were six ahead of the field.
Astrong field turned out on Thursday, and severalplayers returned excellentstableford scores.
Kane Clack had the best roundofthe day to take out A-grade with 37 points, one ahead of John Jefferies.
TrevorBraywon B-grade with 37, two clear of Frankling, and William Burgess topped C-grade with37, on acountback from Owen Scott.
Bronwyn Gudgeonalmost aced the 7th to sharethe day's NTPs with Andrew Wilson.
GISBORNE
Congratulations to BrendanLarkins and Phoenix Moss who wonthe Bert and Doris Storey TrophyonSaturdaywithanett64.5in the American foursomes open competition.
On Thursday, Antonio Ly wonthe A-grade open parevent with+3. RichardMcKibbin wonB-grade with +5 and Andrea Leonard C-grade with+4.
Denise Dunn wonthe A-grade women’s stableford with34points on Wednesday, and Gail Aitken(MandalayGC) wonB-grade with 31 points.
KYNETON
Jarrod Leewas the hottest playeron the course in Saturday'sSizzlin’Sensations Stableford,pilingup41points off21totop C-grade.
Leewas 4-up at the turnand 7-up after13 before easing in the home stretch and finishing sevenclear of Ed Hoctor (28).
Theother grades were tighter. Charles Williams (12), nowa member at Medway took A-grade with 40 points thanks to birdiesonthe tough 6thand 16th. He wastwo ahead of David Moore(8).
Connor Munro(18)continued his fine form, making birdie on the 7thonhis wayto 39, one up on Brad Duncan(18)inB-grade Theleading woman wasDenise Murphy(18) on 36.
NTPs were Cobram-Barooga’sJim Pearce (also superpin), Buhagiar,Col Hudgson, Peter Kewniukand Adam Smith, who wasalso the leading birdie hunterwiththree.
Hudgson had shown flashes of his best on Wednesday, making twobirdies in around of one-over71for 37 points but wasshaded by Noel Alldis (15) in the MacedonRanges Plumbing stableford Murphywas the leading woman on 31, with Alldis, NevilleYates,Hudgson and MurphyNTPs.
Highlights were provided by Yateswithan eagle on the 15th and ScottGallowaywith three four-pointers,including birdies on the 9th and 11th.
TheHardwicks 4BBBonTuesdaywas won by Kylie Malcolm and Anna Chin (Northern GC) with 45 points.
Second were Judith Elliott (Lakeside)and Suzanne Velk (Gisborne)with43, on countback from Trentham’s Julie Hanson and Pat Kinnell.
Matt Roulston romped to afive-shotvictory in Thursday'snine-hole shootout, firing fiveoverfor 23 points and leaving A-graders Hudgson and Jesper Hansen in his wake
Note:Visitors arewelcome fora twoperson Ambrose on the King’sBirthdaypublic holiday. There'sprizes forthe leading teams in three classes plus NTPs. Theentry fee includes hotbeefrolls and sweets forlunch Phone captain Tony Borg on 0408 289 361 to book.
LANCEFIELD
Contrary to common belief, hitting offred tees is notanautomatic advantage, with very fewscoresbetterthan whatwould have appeared on anormal Saturdayoff blue orwhite markers. Notsurewhatwas onthe Balla household'smenulast week,but it certainly worked!
AnnieBallie wonthe club'ssilver spoon event to qualify forthe state finals laterinthe
year,and husband Mark then went on to win the ThursdayFix. Can we all have the recipe, please?
TuesdayLegends: James Whitford (11) 38 from Luke Parks (18) 37, BruceHay (27) and Wayne Mee(21) both 36.
Silver spoon final round: AnnieBalla won twoweeks out of the four and hadanoverall 140 points.
ThursdayFix: Mark Balla (14) 38, from BarryFlentjar (17) 36 and Dean Budde (10) 35.
RED alert stableford:David Colson (31) 41 points, from Whitford (7) 40 andGregParks (8) 38.
MOUNT MACEDON
In whatmust be seen as achanging of the guard, the usualnames appearing on the Club Champion trophyinthe past decade have been Alex Fraser and JimHynes.
Notsothis year,with brothers Patrick and DarcyDoyle prominentatthe topofthe leaderboardoverthe past three weeksof championship golf
In atightfinish, Patrick prevailed with 217, astrokebetterthanhis brother, withJarod Plowmanafurther strokeback on 219.
TheB-grade champ is Stuart Gunnell on 244, from Mike Hoiles 252, andSeanBassett toppedC-grade on 279, astrokeclear of Mike Smitheram.
Seniors gross went to Hoiles 252on countback fromTonyCarter,while the nett prizewenttoSmitheram.
TheGisborne Foodworks Maymonthly medal wasplayedinconjunction with the championship on Saturday C-grader Smitheram wasthe runawaywinner with 86-24-62.
Patrick Doyle, 75,was bestscratch score on countback from Plowman, and Darren Mantynen(10) and Hayden Phillips (14) playedtotheir handicapstosnare Aand B grades respectively NTPswerePlowman (2), Mantynen and Hynes.
In Wednesday'send of month team event, athree-person gentsomes(random draw) went to Karl Pongracic, Mike Gormanand Wayne Burgess with 84 points,fromBrian Collins,Bubba Watson andSmitheram 83. ROMSEY
It wasMedal of Medallists DayonSaturday, with themedal winnersoverthe past 12 months doing battle.
In aclose finish clubcaptain MalMottram wasvictoriouswith 79-9-70, withnew club champion Daniel Wrightshooting 73-2-71. JaredBeswick 86-14-72 also turned in a good round.
Mottram, Wrightand Dean Kohler were theNTPs.
We have plenty of golf over theKing's Birthdayweekend forthose who arenot going away.It's4BBB on Saturday andAmbrose on Monday,which is also guests' day. Anyone keen to play or justcheck outthe club are most welcome(assemble at 11.30am for noon tee-off)
Can'twait to see youall there, including some newfaces as well
TRENTHAM
Damp and chilly conditionsfailedtodeter afield of 60 on Saturday,with BobPenrose returning the best stableford scoreof38 points.
A-grade —RussellHanson(11) 35 on c/b from Alan Hopkins (9); B—Bob Penrose (15) 38 from Kevin Sheedy (17) 36; C— Graeme Smith (19) 37, from AlfredoDean (18) 36. KarenParkes(39) had 34 points to win the women's eventonac/b from JulieBartholomew.
Grade results after67teed offinthe mixed stableford on Thursday were: A— Robin Wilson (2) 38 points on c/b from NathanHrovatin (6); B— LarryProwse (18) on c/b from BruceSmith; C—Chris Bell (22) 34, from Catherine Reddan (33) 33. WOODEND
Amixtureofshowers,sunshine, and more rain kept Saturday'sfield of 50 involved. Scratchmaker Grant Davies had fiveimpressivebirdies on his wayto+4, edging out Lyam Murray (5) on +3 in A-grade. Visiting from Gisborne, JaiWatt(32) topped B-grade with+2, twoclear of Dennis Barker (13).
Alleligible areencouraged to register by June 6for the women's match playsingles.
Seniors
GOALS: Castlemaine: BHenderson 3ZDerksen 2ARixon D
With the semi finalsofthe Northern District Croquet Asociation autumn pennant competition playedlast week, the eight finalist teams(four per division) have been whittled down to six still in the hunt forpennant glory
In both divisions, it wasthe topranked teams thatwon straightintothe Grand Finals, and the fourth ranked teams that were eliminated, so nowit'sup to the real contenders
Topranked Division 1/2 team Golden/Maldon (Gary Dykes and Allan Breen)continued on their undefeated journey, but the opposition is getting closer.This time their win came down to just one hoop overthe Quarry Hill Robins (Nick Quirk and Trevor Ware). Once again, match-fit Dykesdelivered, witha 7-2 win overWare. TheRobins came back strongly,with wins in both the doubles. It wassoclose that if Dykes's7-6 win overQuirk had gone the other wayonthe last hoop, the matchwin would have gone to theRobins. Allis notlostfor the Robins however, theygoontoplaythe Quarry Hill Galahs in next week'sPreliminary Final.
TheGalahs (Bernie Lacey and Colleen Coutts)progressed based on their clearcut 5-1 games win over another Quarry Hill team, the fourth ranked Ravens (Robert Coutts and Romana Rawlings). Butitwasn't the walkoveritappears –both the doubles games were hard-
fought7-6 wins to the Galahs, so it wasalmost another 3-3 games result. TheGalahs had it covered on hoops wonthough, thanks to twoemphatic wins to Lacey in the singles (7-2 and 7-3) to finish ahead 41-26 hoops.
Thetop ranked team in Division 3had amuchmoreconvincing run into the Grand Final. The Golden SquareShooters (Lyn Breen and Mark James)defeated the Maldon Maples (Ann Metz and Chris Cooper)by5-1 games. Breen andJames won all four singles games, including abrilliant7-1 win to Breen overMetz, andrestricted the Maples to just one game win in the second doubles. TheMaples geta second chanceagainst Golden SquareGold (Nigel Gaul and KathyMontgomery)who eliminatedEaglehawk with a 4-2 games win. Gaul wasin greatform, winning both his singles (7-1 and 7-3) and being instrumental in winning one of the doubles games 7-5. It was enough to keep their chances aliveand move into the Preliminary Final next week.
So next week, therewill be just one Preliminary Final to determine the other Grand Finalists forJune 11, one in each division. An interesting aside is thathusband and wife(Allan Breen in Div1/2; LynBreen in Div3)are both straightthrough to their respectiveGrand Finals, and arered hotcontendersfor their respectiveteams to win both divisions.
Gallopers going well
Melbourne Cupwinning co-trainersJohnSymons and Sheila Laxon arecertainly making their presencefelt at the highly credentialled Macedon Lodge property
"Wecouldn't be happier with howour horses have settled in,"Laxon said aftera recent win.
Theduo movedfromQueensland to thestate-ofthe art Macedon propertylastyear, and it wasareturn to familiar territory
Last Wednesday, theyproduced four-year-old gelding Il Patrigno to win the Sportsbet Jockey Watch Handicap over 1800metresatCaulfield Heath. He started as an $11 chance.
Coming offa win at SeymouronApril26and a thirdplaceatBallarat,IlPatrigno waswell positioned in the runbyDylan Dunn, and gottothe frontwith just over 200metrestorun.
Favourite, Glenfiddon loomed up and hit the front, but the Symons-Laxon galloper foughtback and won in atightphoto-finish.
A50-1 WINNER
At Seymour on May21, Symonsand Laxon saddled up tworunnerspreparedatMacedon Lodge, and both
ranextremely well on asoft6 track.
Having his fourth race start, Nihancan started as a $51 chanceand finished strongly to win theSeymour Equine Maiden over 2040m.
In the firstraceonthe Seymourprogram, Star of Macedon ($21) showedhis first glimpse of form with asecond placing over 1200m. Dylan Dunn wasaboard both Symons-Laxon gallopers.
WINNER AT BENDIGO
Kynetontrainer Michael Jones did asuperb job to win araceonFridaywitha galloper who last racedon June 15 last year
Jones prepared four-year-old mare Queen Of Cordoba —a $26 outsider —fit enough to win the1300m McDonald Electrical Maiden Plateinimpressivestyle.
Ridden by Ryan Hurdle,Queen Of Cordoba travelled in thirdplacefor muchofthe journey, winding up in the straighttowin by alength and ahalf
It washer thirdracestart, finishing eighth at her twoprevious runs last year
Recently,the maretuned up by running in 800 metrejumpouts at Kynetonand Bendigo, ridden by experiencedtrack riderJason Baldock.
MAIN Game returns
94.9MainFM’shighly anticipatedand much-lovedcommunityevent,the MAIN Game, returns forits seventhyearonSunday June 7(King’sBirthdaylongweekend)!
Thehistoric Camp ReserveinCastlemaine will host the Aussie Rules footyfriendly between the Rockatoos and the Radio Galahs.
Music andEntertainment
TheMAINGame brings footyand fundraising together forlocal radio station 94.9 MainFM, acornerstone of the community formanyyears.
Both teams, comprising local radio presenters,tradies, musicians and respectable community members, areexcited to put on ashowwhile raising vital funds to support MainFM’sprogramming and community efforts.
It’s morethanfooty
Theevent is family and dogfriendly,with activities forthe kids, MAIN Game merch, as well as food stalls –barbecue, donuts, pizza and coffee –not to mention the MAIN Bar, whereyou can grab abeverage, featuring twolocal Castlemaine breweries.
Castlemaine’s owndynamic brass ensemble, Thompson’s Foundry Band will set the tone with some brassbrillianceahead of the first bounce, with Eloand theShinkicks taking the stageatthe half-time break. Bring the kids and afooty so youcan have akick on the hallowedturf between quarters, just likethe old days!
MainFM94.9 will broadcast all the sounds, sights and action from theground with its informativeand entertaining commentary team,Macca and Gus!
“There’snodoubtfooty brings people together and the MAIN Game ticksall the boxesasafun community event,”saidSteph Riddel, station manager at MainFM.
“Not onlywill this be an entertaining game of footy, it’salso afantastic wayto showyoursupport forMainFM, which plays such an importantroleinkeeping the community connected.”
Gates open at noon. Ticketsare available at mainfm.net
Bill West
Il Patrigno ridden by Dylan Dunn Photo: Pat Scala/ Racing Photos
TheRockatoos wonthe 2025showdown. Whowill be successful in 2026? Photo:MarionWilliams
Tightatthe topinA-grade netball
Macedon A-grade netballersmissed out on agolden opportunity to catapult into fifth placeonthe ladder when beatenby twogoals in an exciting finish against Wallan on Saturday.
TheCatsweretied 30-30 at home at the last change, but the visitorsrallied to stayinsecond place, behind Lancefield on percentage. Aftershowing some promising form, Riddell finally putitall together with aconfidence-building 58-43 margin against fourth-placed Gisborne Giants.
TheBombershad Amelia Haxby, Hayley Brownand Milly Shaw in topform, and a 20-7 firstquarter advantageproveddecisive.Malia Seumanutafa (34goals), Lauren Clymo and Madeline Quigleywerethe Giants' best.
RomseyA-gradersare still looking for their first win aftergoing down 68-52 to Melton Centrals
Kynetonscoreda fourth successivevictory to move into sixth place, with superstar shooterEllie Bird again in dynamic form with64goals in the 71-48 victory at home to DiggersRest.
Rarely has an imported playermadesuch
amonumental impact as Bird —opposition sides have simply had no answerstoher dominance.
OVER 100 GOALS!
Themagic 100 barrier wasbrokenby ladder leader Lancefield, as Shanae Brundellscored80incontinuation of her fine season.
Defender Bridget Dods and BellaCollodetti also shone, withthe Tigers crushing bottom side Melton South 102-18 to boost percentageto162.56.
In B-grade, Tarnee Hammond threw 68 goalsinthe Tigers'89-34 victory,and Romsey'sMaddison Thompson scored 50 in a77-29 win overCentrals
JarrydVernon (pictured), one of the all-time greats of Gisborne Cricket Club, has stepped down as head coachofthe successful Dragons.
"His standards, professionalism, competitiveness and tireless off-field work have helped shape the culture thatexists at Gisborne today,"the club statedonThursday.
Thegreat news forGisborne CC is that while he maynot be continuing the role which has yielded successiveMcIntyreCup premierships, and runner-up(to Woodend) in 2025-26, is thatthe talentedall-rounder will definitely be playing forGisborne this coming season.
He stepped down due to increasing family and work commitments
Many cricket followers in the GDCA would agree thatVernon is certainly one of the all-timegreatsofGisborne Cricket Club. His remarkable record shows that
"Beyond the accolades and statistics, Jarryd
Commercial Law
has helped leadour club through themost successfulperiod in theclub's 170-yearhistory
"Onbehalf of everyone at theDragons, we sincerely thank Jarrydfor everything he has given to the role andtoour clubmorebroadly," the spokesman said.
Jarrydand his younger brother Rileyhave kept fit playing forGisborne Reserves this season.
How'sthis fora record which speaks for itself:Fivetimes FirstXIpremiership captain, six-timeclub champion, KevinSullivan Medallist, Victorian Country vice-captain, multiple GDCA Team of the Year player (including captain), FirstXIleading runscorer, holder of the highest individual First XI scoreinclub history (217 notout), andbest bowling figures of 9/84.
TheDragons said an exciting newchapter forthe club would be announced
Mark Barake,Spencer Jonesand fast bowler DarcyThomas have all re-signed for2026-27.
Falconsatlast
MountAlexander Falcons broke through fortheir first win of the RDFNL women'sfootball season on Saturdayafternoon. They defeated Riddell by 17 points in alow-scoring matchat Harcourt
Ella Hayeswas in topform forthe Falcons who won4.3 (27) to 1.4 (10). Forthe second matchinarow, Madina Nabole wasRiddell'sbest player.
LateronSaturday, flag favourite Macedon wassurprised when atenaciousLancefield kicked three goals straight(LilyBromley2,Rebecca Ager)tolead by apoint at half-time. TheCatslifted their game in the second half to win 8.4 (52) to 3.1 (19), withthe dynamic Ruby Watts, ShakiraParker and SarahMcLean best in aside with plenty of depth. Lancefield did enough to think theycan improve further this season.
McKenna in medalrace
Bill West
Goalkicking specialist PatMcKenna rocketedtothe lead in the race forthe 2026 Ron Best Medal as Gisborne thrashed Broadford by 221 points on Saturday.
McKenna has neverwon the Bendigo League's topgoalkicking jorsagainst the Kang lead afterseven rounds.
Thetalented29-y goals this season and of the Bulldogs' camp premiership.
Saturday'sgame wa Hammond Reserve, and secured an extraordinary ageboost of over54% stayedinthe huntfor chance.
Final scores in atot sided encounterwere3 (228) to 1.1 (7).
TheBulldogs kicked 12.5 to no scoreinthe first quarter,monopolising the ball for muchofthe time
This hugewin gives the Dogs added confidencefor Saturda eighth round clash against visiting Sandhurst at Gardiner
Reserve.
Apart from McKenna, Gisborne's best players against Broadford were listed as James Gray, Thomas Werner,BradBernacki, Lucas Hannon and Harry Thomas. Earlier,Gisborne Reserves wontheir first match forthe season, deing the 'Roos 9.12 (66) to 4.2 (26).
Gisborne U18s wontheir third game witha decisive 16.18 (114) to 4.10 scoreline.
NETBALL DEMOLITION Gisborne had runawaywins in all four netball matches.
Thevery strong A-graders won89-13 as Broadfordhad no answersto their class and teamwork.
TheB-grade scorewas 7617, the B-Reserveside won 88-10, and the 17&Under girls prevailed 67-13.
Molly McGrathlookstopass to ateammate.Photo:Frances Noonan
Steaders triumph over Dons in localderby
Maryborough Castlemaine District Football League round eightaction saw Newstead host Maldon in the local derby at Newstead Recreation Reserve.
TheSteaderswerelooking to bounce back aftera narrow loss to theGiants, and the Dons were determined to tapbackinto some of their early season form aftera loss to Natte Bealiba.
TheRoos wasted no time smashing on eightgoals to Maldon's oneinthe opening term to lead by 49 points at thefirst change.
Thesecond quarter wasa moreeven affair,bothsides managing to kick two apiece, but at half-timethe Steadersled by 48 points.
TheRoos managed to shut down Maldon's avenuestogoal in the thirdterm, kicking three of their owntoextend their lead out to 69 points at thefinal change.
Maldon grabbed acouple backinthe fourth term, butthe Roos bounded away with another fivegoals to win by acomfortable 85 points.
Thewin sees Newstead jump up arung
into fourth spot
Best forNewstead were SamWinnard with 7goals, William Moran3,Liam O'Brien, Joel Smith, Lachlan O’Brien and Ethan Maltby
Best forMaldon were Coby Bennett, DarcyKelly,MatthewGray, AaronMillen, Xavior Noy andTadgh Cananzi.
Harcourt travelledtoNatte Yallock and wasrewarded with awin over Natte Bealiba.
TheLions jumped out to a14-pointlead in thefirst term and despitea valianteffort the Swans couldn't reel the game back.
Harcourt baggedseven goalsinthe second and thirdterms and another four in the final term to cruisetoastrong 84-pointwin.
Best forHarcourt were Baxter Gurd who kicked 5, Braydon Vaz, SamGale, Thomas Walters, Mark Noonan, Geoffrey Jolly and Taylar McKnight
Thewin sees Harcourt remain in top spotfour points clear of second-placed Carisbrook.
Trentham welcomed improving Camp-
bells CreekMagpies outfit
Creek registered agoal early,but the Saints provedtheyare apowerhouse slamming on eightgoals to lead by 46 points at the change.
By half-time this had blown out to 85 points.
Creek found another in the third, but Trentham continued to pepper the goals and added another eightmajorstothe scoreboard.
TheMagpie defencestood tall in the final term holding the Saints to four goals, butcould notconvert opportunities at the other end of the ground. Trentham eventually winning by 157 points.
Best forthe Saints were Jake Keogh with a13goal haul, Harrison Knight, Joel Cowan, Alister Ferrier,Joel Dovaston and Samuel Bartels.
Best forCreek were TysonWilliams, Dylan Stevens, James Haber,Isaac Fletcher,Mitchell Stevensand Joel Wootton.
TheSaints aresitting in thirdspot.
In other matches, Lexton defeated Avoca by 73 points, Dunolly lost to Navarreby
61 points, Carisbrook defeated Talbotby 2points in athriller.Maryborough Giants had the bye.
Netball
In AGrade matches, Newtead 30 defeated Maldon 25 in aclose contest. Brianna Jury netted 14 and Emily Cooper 13 forthe Roos,whilst Maldon's AlannahFurmaston recorded 15 goals. Natte Bealiba 51 defeated Harcourt 27. Jarrenhy Webb shot20goals in atop performance forthe Lions.
Trentham 62 defeated Campbells Creek 21. Hannah Weier netted amassive51 goals forthe Saints, MiaMartin 10 top scored forCreek. Lexton 42 lost to Avoca 62. Dunolly 34 lost to Navarre64. Carisbrook 61 defeated Talbot 27.
This weekend
In this weekend'sround nine action, Maldon hosts Maryborough Giants, Navarreversus Lexton, Harcourt takeson Newstead, Carisbrook welcomes Dunolly, Campbells Creekfaces NatteBealiba, Talbot tackles Trentham and Avoca has the bye
Challenging dayfor Castlemaine Magpies
TheCastlemaine Magpies returned to the field and netball court last Saturdayfresh from atwo-week spell courtesyofthe bye and interleague competition.
Theside made the journeytoCanterbury Park to takeonEaglehawk.
TheHawks were first on the board, but Castlemaine soon got one back. Thehome side steadied and kicked the next twoto lead by 10 points at quarter-time.
TheHawks had twomoreonthe board before theMagpies registered their second. Minutes laterCastlemaine had athird.
Eaglehawk regrouped and grabbed another to hold a16-pointlead at half-time.
Castlemaine found another early in the thirdterm to bring the margin back to 10 points, but Eaglehawk had all the answers and kicked four moregoals to extend their lead to 27 points at thefinal change.
TheMagpies wonthe last term kicking 4.4 to the Hawks 3.5 but the damagewas done and Eaglehawk wonby22points.
Best forthe Magpies were Michael Hartley, DylanLandt, Zavier Murley, DarbySemmens, Jack Sutherland and Oscar Giddings.
In theReserves, the Magpies lost in a nailbiter going down by just fivepoints.
Best were BenMcConachy, Zane Doherty,RileyPedretti, Tyson Hickey,Ashton Frankling, Josiah Bell
In theUnder 18s the Magpies started the daybrightly with ablistering 69 pointwin overthe Hawks.
TheMagpies showedtheir depth with multiple goal scorers on theday with Oliver Britt leading the waywith 3.
Best were Joshua Tull,Jack Archer,Benjamin Jardine, Oliver Britt, Morgan McClure, Harper Kneebone
Women's Football
TheCastlemaine Magpie Women's football side also made thetrektoCanterbury Park Fridayevening to tackle theHawks.
TheMagpies gotout to aone goal lead in the opening term and played consistent footyfor the remaining three quartersto build on thatearly advantageand claim the points with acomfortable 35 pointwin.
Best forCastlemaine were Tiahna Cochrane who booted5 goals, Jemma Finning who chipped in 2, AliceD'Arcy, Eillish Cumming, Taylah Sartori and Georgia Gordon.
TheMagpies arecurrently sitting in second spottrailing Golden Squareonpercentage. This Fridaytheywill face an important hurdle when theyplaythirdplaced Sandhurst under lights at the QEO.
TheUnder 18 Girls faceda challenging game against the Hawks. Eaglehawk gotout
to an early lead and held a14 pointadvantageathalftime. To their credit the Magpies bounced back inthe thirdtwo with two goalstoIsobelle Prattand Tegan Barry. But Eaglehawk bootedthree moretorun away with a22pointwin.
Best forthe Magpies were Amelia Brown, AvaBartlett, Kate Batchelor,Rhani Evans, PiperMarshall and Shelby Kitchingman. Netball On thenetball courtAGrade lost to Eaglehawk 56-33, AReservelostaclose bout 50 to 37, BGrade lost 64 to 28 despite avalianteffort, BReservelost51to16, 17 &Under lost 60 to 30 and 15 &Under lost 58 to 21.
This weekendthe Magpies will host new BFNL side Broadfordatthe Camp Reserve TheRoosare chasing their first win, whilst the Magpies will keen to securetheir third.
Newstead andMaldonwenthead to head in the local derby. Photo: MaxLesserThe Roos and Dons netballers battle it out in slippery conditions at Newstead.Photo:Max Lesser
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