Midland Express Tuesday 2 April 2023

Fire brigade in limbo

Amy Hume

Riddells Creek Fire Brigade remains in limbo as the proposed site for its new station was all but struck out last week.

Macedon Ranges Shire councillors voted not to pursue plans for the brigade's relocation to Riddells Creek Recreation Reserve following community opposition.

The Crown land reserve at 26-32 Sutherlands Road, zoned public park and recreation, was the only option the CFA had not discounted of more than 25 considered.

Needs for both recreational land and a fire brigade operating to its fullest are both imperative to the growing town, and that was one of the arguments to emerge from public feedback.

About 50 per cent of respondents expressed strong opposition to the site with concerns about access, parking and the impact the proposal could have on existing user groups.

It was also noted the area had been designated for recreational purposes and the proposal could inhibit future expansion of the facilities within the reserve.

Councillor Bill West said council had to try to get the best outcome for all parties.

“It’s pretty obvious there’s going to be no universal agreement, and we’ve got to try and get the best outcome possible,” he said.

Utilising Crown land would remove upfront site purchase costs for the CFA but, according to the council officer report, the CFA would be unable to assist the council to meet some of the costs likely to be associated with the relocation.

In their feedback to the council, some residents opposed to the plan suggested the CFA should either renovate or extend

at their existing location, both of which the CFA advised were not possible.

The brigade was scheduled to receive areplacement heavy tanker in 2019 but was forced to refuse it due to the station’s limitations.

Such an upgrade would have delivered larger capacity for water carry and acrew cab (not aluxury of the current vehicle), as well as other comforts such as air conditioning. It was ahuge blow for one of the shire’s busiest brigades.

That same year, local MP Mary-Anne Thomas announced the brigade would have anew $3 million station on alarger site by 2021.

The new station was expected to feature athree-bay motor room, support and meeting areas, offices, turn-out areas for firefighters, as well as akitchen, training yard, communications infrastructure, fencing and acar park.

Extension granted

Asecond extension has been granted on apermit for 14 double-storey homes on a Woodend floodplain.

The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal granted the extension despite Macedon Ranges Shire Council's rejection of the request last month. Councillors had argued that no work had progressed at the 2-4 Davy Street site since VCAT granted atwo-year extension in 2021. Apermitwas first issued in January 2017.

Two grounds the council relied upon in seeking a‘no extension’ order was ‘the passage of time’ and view that the permit holder was seeking to ‘warehouse’ the permit.

Councillors voted 6-2 against granting the permit despite the planning officer's recommendation for approval.

It is understood the Davy Street land changed hands in October 2022 and has since been in the ownership of Itsokrov Pty Ltd.

The VCAT senior member Phillip Martin

also considered various pandemic-related complications in the building industry, which

Mr Martin felt "made the two years extension granted until January 11, 2023, inadequate".

Mr Martin said there was a"considerable list of ‘site preparation works’ which council either concedes or at least ‘does not actively oppose’ have been donebythe permit holder".

He said there were factors "inevitably causing major on-going delays" and were outside of the permit holder's control. These included the COVID lockdowns, ongoing pressures in the building industry, difficulty sourcing abuilder for the project, wet weather and the death of three of the original land owners.

The permit was extendedfor another two and ahalfyears until July11, 2025. This took into account that the permit expired on January 11 but there had been adelay of three to four months to then get the hearing at VCAT.

MRSC will write to the CFA requesting they continue to work with the council, state government and Riddells Creek community to find asuitable solution.

This may include asking the CFA to reconsider other sites including those privately owned, negotiate further on proposed conditions from the council, or consider private properties becoming available in nearby locations.

The council acknowledged some risk in delay, including potential ongoing limitation of operational ability for emergency response and removal of council and community input.

As the Riddells Creek Recreation Reserve land is owned by the state government, there is ariskthe council could be removed as Committee of Management for that portion of the reserve and lease the parcel of land to the CFA without council

Riddells Creek Fire Brigade’s

Service centre to go?

Macedon Ranges Shire Council's Woodend Customer Service Centre faces closure due to low visitation.

Council's six-month data collection trial (May to November) last year identified "the centre is unable to continue operating at the level it currently is".

"Results from the trial confirmed that the centre is not frequented regularly for council services outside peak periods," areport to council said.

Foot-traffic at the Woodend centre was the lowest of all four centres across the shire. It recorded an average daily attendance of 7.7 customers while Kyneton and Gisborne were the most active with 21.3 and 22.2 customers daily, respectively.

Council officers recommended community consultation be undertaken with one potential option being closure of the centre.

The report identified staffing and rostering as "increasingly difficult" due to requirements that two staff are rostered to provide asafe workplace and cover lunch breaks. Financial cost to operate the centre was also afactor considered. The total staffing cost for 2022-23 at Woodend was $108,899 not including on-costs. Staff training opportunities were also limited at the site. Other considerations were the cessation of aged care service delivery effective from July 1(reducing in-person interactions) and closure of local banks, which increases risk to staff transporting cash to and from the site.

Discussing the centre's viability last week, councillors said the decision to begin consultation for its closure was "not taken lightly".

"It always difficult for acommunity when they look at aservice being there and aservice potentially being withdrawn," Cr Jennifer Anderson said.

"People will see that Romsey has similar visitations (to Woodend) but Romsey is the only service centre in the east of the shire, whereas, those in Woodend within ashort amount of time, by train or car, go to the Kyneton or even Gisborne centres to be served."

Cr Anderson urged people to look at the reasoning behind the options and to provide feedback during the consultation process.

Community consultation is expected to be completed this month.

Buzz fornew project

From page 1.

“Introduced into Australia in 1822, Apis mellifera is now endemic and regarded as part of the landscape. But what nobody knows is the damage the honeybee has caused by its presence in Australia during the past 200 years.”

Mr Sansom said every spring, honeybee colonies divided to create two colonies. The bees that leave the old hive have to find anew place to live and suitable sites are scarce.

"The honeybee in particular can be abit aggressive in setting up anew home. Tree hollows, wall cavities, chimneys, nesting boxes and compost bins are all possibilities."

He said the problem was that throughout the bush and in urban areas, tree hollows were prime targets especially in old eucalypt trees. Bees often outcompete native birds and small marsupials.

"Nobody knows the extent to which the honeybee has had adamaging effect on our natural environment. This is especially so in regions like the Macedon Ranges that still have considerable forested land," Mr Sansom said.

Managed bee hives in the care of apiarists are not the problem. Like any other skilled profession managing livestock, beekeepers have strategies to reduce the propensity of honeybee swarms escaping into the wild.

Mr Sansom said the environmental problem was mainly from feral colonies already in the bush and from backyard beekeepers inexperienced in managing the spring swarming phenomenon.

The Woodend Bee Friendly Society is about to embark on agroundbreaking study in thespring of 2023 to gather data.

Council news

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Applications close on Friday 12 May. Find outmoreat mountalexander.vic.gov.au/News.

Notice of public sale: Impounded livestock

Council Officers impoundedtwo dorper rams,two ewes and one lamb from Faradayon31March 2023. If the sheep arenot claimed andexpenses paid theywill be sold at the Bendigo Livestock Exchangeon15May

Formoreinformation callthe LocalLawsteam on 5471 1700

Employment opportunities

Planning ComplianceOfficer –part time

Applications close at 9.00am on Monday8 May Find out moreatmountalexander.vic.gov.au/Current_vacancies.

Upcoming Council meeting

ThenextCouncil meeting is at 6.30pm on Tuesday16May

Watchthe livestream at youtube.com/c/MountAlexanderShireCouncil.

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

"Members want to know the extent to which honeybee swarms are still impacting the natural environment with aview to possible future strategies to address the problem," Mr Sansom said.

He said society members also wanted to develop management skills to enable members to capture swarms before they escaped. "Since feral colonies of honey-

bees can harbour disease, the data obtained has the potential to help to control outbreaks," Mr Sansom said.

Woodend Men's Shedhas begun making more than 100 bait boxes for the swarm monitoring project.

Woodend Bee Friendly Society action group leader, Sam Rixon,said using the bait boxes to catch swarms had never been done before in Australia.

"It's innovative and groundbreaking, and particularlyimportant given the recent varroa mite incursion," she said.

"It's really important from abiosecurity perspective to try to capture anyferal swarms that are out in the environment to monitor them for pests and diseases, but also to free up the hollows in trees that would ordinarily be taken up by things like possums or micro bats.

"We don't want the feral bees in there, taking up precious habitat."

The success of the project will depend on how widespread the bait boxes can be deployed in the Macedon Ranges region.

If you would like to participate in this research project and be an observer, call 0427 290 012 or email tino.coresetti@ gmail.com for further details.

Woodend Bee FriendlySociety's Sam Rixon and Jim Sansom are undertaking groundbreaking research into the environmental impact of the honeybee

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Ratesup3.5 per cent

Macedon Ranges Shire Council has released its draft 2023/24 Budget with changes proposed for waste disposal and 40 new initiatives planned.

Charges to the shire’s four-bin kerbside collection are expected to increase to $540.50 per property (an increase of 8.5 per cent) due largely to inflationary factors impacting the cost of contracts for collection.

The council is seeking feedback on an option to introduce agreen waste charge of $5 per trailer load at transfer stations, in auser-pays model that would reduce the kerbside charge by about $8.50 per rateable assessment receiving the four-bin system.

Rate increases are proposed in line with the state-wide rate cap of 3.5 per cent, which is based on the average rate increase for the average property.

The budget includes council funding partnering with state and federal government on the delivery of major projects such as the Macedon Ranges Regional Sports Complex in New Gisborne and the Woodend to Riddells Creek Shared Trail, as well as new initiatives.

Initiatives include netball facilities at Kyneton Showgrounds Reserve, lighting upgrades for Riddells Creek Recreation Reserve and New Gisborne tennis courts, and $10.3 million in capital infrastructure work to roads.

The budget along with an updated Council Plan were released for community feedback last week.

The Council Plan highlights several actions relating to ongoing council priorities such as the development of an updated Reconciliation Action Plan, aClimate Emergency Response Plan and anew

Chargestothe shire’sfour-bin kerbside collection are expected to increase to $540.50 per property (an increase of 8.5 per cent) due largely to inflationaryfactors impacting the cost of contracts forcollection.

Waste Education Action Plan.

Mayor Annette Death encouraged residents to read the draft documents, to better understand council’s reasoning and allow them to give informed feedback.

“Everyone –council included –isfacing cost pressures at the moment, but our focus continues to be on delivering our priority projects and various services to ahigh standard for the benefit of our residents and visitors to the shire,” she said.

Funds for Walking Footy

U3A Kyneton’s ‘Walking Football’ project has beenawarded$1500from Macedon RangesShireCouncil’sSmallProjectGrants program WalkingFootball is asmall-sided, low-impact, modifiedversion of the game, suitable for alllevels of ability andfitness, from people who arereturning to sport aftera break or those whohaveneverplayed before.

The grantfundingwill assist theU3A group in promotingand delivering its pilot program at Buffalo Stadium in Woodend, withthe aim of building enoughmembersto achieve ongoingsustainability.

The grouphas the supportofFootball Australia, whowillprovide coaches and equipment andhave identifiedinterestfrom a local soccerclubtobeinvolved also

“From the regular services such as road maintenance and waste collection, to longer-term strategic initiatives, council delivers so many important services to the community and we value hearing what matters most to you.”

Submissions to these draft documents are open until May 19 at 5pm. Submitters have the option to present to the council on May 31, with the final documents to be tabled on June 28.

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‘Unprecedented number of visitors’

Macedon residents impacted by this year’s Autumn Festival visitation crowds have criticised the local council for its management of the event.

One resident said the council had closed asection of Honour Avenue for the pedestrians and had crossing guards in place.

“Bad luck for the people who live there,” she said.

“Along the section of the avenue that is still open for traffic, these visitors are parking under the avenue trees, treating the trees as aplayground and also walking along the road, they don’t care about the cars.

“This invasion of people on this avenue is the worst, the crowds arrive before 8am and are still there after 7pm.”

The resident said the people who came to the avenue had no interest in the fact that it was amemorialfor the soldiers who volunteered in the First World War.

“It is part of the Anzac memory, it should be respected. It is also astate heritage listed Avenue of Honour.”

The resident has lodged acomplaint with the Minister for Veterans Affairs and also with Heritage Victoria over potential damage to the trees.

Macedon Ranges Shire Council CEO, Bernie O’Sullivan, said council acknowl-

edged the concerns and frustrations of residents who had been directly impacted by the “unprecedented number of visitors” to Honour Avenue and surrounding areas during this year’s autumn period.

“Favourable weather conditions, combined with Anzac Day services in the area, resulted in an unexpected number of visitors to the townships of Macedon and Mount Macedon,” Mr O’Sullivan said.

“This time of year usually sees an influx of visitors as people come to see the beautiful foliage which makes our region so special. “However, on some specific days this year, we had asignificantly higher number of visitors than anticipated.”

Mr O’Sullivan said council wished to reassure residents that previous feedback was taken on board in planning for this year, and that traffic management measures and extra amenities were provided to minimise the impact on residents and safely guide visitors.

“Council officers did their utmost throughout the period to implement these measures as best possible, given the large number of people,” he said.

“Council is committed to the ongoing support of residents and will review this year’s management actions, together with partner agencies, as is done each year after the autumn period.”

Stock up for winter weather

Stock up for the cooler weather at the RM Begg Kyneton Aged Care Auxiliary craft market this Saturday.Loads of knitwear, beanies and scarves, cakes, jams and sauce are on offer, plus rugs, toys, books and much more.

The craft market is on from 9am to 1pm at Bolton Hall, 27-35 Epping Street, Kyneton. Eftpos available.

Favourable weather conditions, combined with Anzac Dayservices in the area, resulted in an unexpected number of visitorstothe townships of Macedon and Mount Macedon in autumn.

Gentlemen, startyourengines

Angela Crawford

Castlemaine motorcycle enthusiasts will don their best gentleman’s gear to ride their favourite –often classic –bike later this month.

Retired policeman Brian Rix is organising the local Castlemaine Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride with agoal of raising awareness and funds for men’s health.

Brian has taken part in the ride before in Melbourne and wanted to initiate alocal ride in his hometown.

"This ride has been going for 12 years and it's now world-wide," he said.

"There's now 115 countries involved and they've raised US$37.5M over that period of time.

"This year we're looking at prostate cancer research and mental health in relation to suicides, and Ican tell you now, every one of us has been touched by that."

Brian hopes to encourage more riders to sign up.

"You can get online through www. gentlemansride.com and anyone can join any group but here in Castlemaine, knowing what Castlemaine's like, I'd expect quite afew local boys to come along," he said.

"We'll be taking in the towns of Maldon, Newstead, Guildford, Vaughan Springs, Fryerstown, Castlemaine and ending up at Campbells Creek for lunch."

The effort also has the support of local doctor Ali Clark-Hakimi of Lyttleton Street Medical Clinic.

"This is agreat event to raise awareness and funds for mental health and prostate cancer, which otherwise isn't there," he said.

"The mental health problem is huge, and for the most part guys don't talk about

it, but when they get in groups where they can open up, then things open up.

"This ride is classical and chivalrous, and those days seem to be gone.

"So many people are wrapped up with their own self, but when there's people like

this who serve and have that attitude of helping others, it's huge.

"The more the merrier, ride safely, and ride to help people be safe."

The ride will begin at 11am on Sunday May 21, when around the world, the global

DGR community will come together and celebrate in trademark dapper fashion. Supporters can sponsor individual riders or simply donate if they want to. Go to www.gentlemansride.com to find out more.

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Taking seed in Kyneton

Amy Hume

When Kylie Swain began aseed library for Woodend in 2020 she was hopeful the concept would spread its roots.

The seed library allows residents to ‘borrow’ seeds to grow fruit, vegetables and flowers at home in exchange for ‘return’ seeds from their crop.

Now into its third year, the project is taking seed in Kyneton with alaunch planned at Kyneton Library on May 13.

“People do travel to come and get seeds so it’s good to start getting local seeds into every town,” Ms Swain said.

Other towns have also expressed interest in the idea including Romsey, which is expected to launch soon.

The project not only spreads the love of gardening, it also produces more resilient plants fit for the Ranges sometimes tough winters.

“If seed is collected from and grown in the local area it becomes acclimatised and ready to take on the seasons –for the Macedon Ranges, which experiences frosts, that’s agreat thing,” said seed library volunteer Marie Marmara.

Ms Marmara is an avid home grower from Gisborne, also with more than 30 years of experience working in nurseries.

“Another thing that is so great about sharing seeds is introducing young people to gardening so they can see how things grow and where their food comes from,” she said.

Based at the Woodend Library, theseed library brings together volunteers with common interest who help fold seed packets. These are created from the pages of decommissioned library books –that is, those

otherwise destined for the recycling bin!

Librarian Mandy McFarlane said the project had generated plenty of intrigue from the community.

“There’s so much interest from people coming into the library –they ask questions about how it all works,” she said.

Ms Swain said among the supporters was the Woodend Kindergarten, which brought children to visit each season.

Kyneton’s own seed library will launch at Kyneton Library on May 13 from 10am to noon.

The day will include seed packet

child-friendly activities, seed planting, seed ball making and, of course, free seeds to take home.

Donations of seeds to kickstart the Kyneton collection are welcomed, as well as volunteers to keep asteadypile of seed

Pictured are librarian MandyMcFarlane,Sue Ashman, Marie Marmara and KylieSwain with daughter Willow.

‘Save our Society’

The Romsey and Lancefield Districts Historical Society –formed in April 1979 –isin danger of folding up.

President Dimity Reed has just made astrong plea to the community to act.

“We need local residents who feel passionate about their township to come forward and support the society," Dimity said.

“For example, we desperately require volunteers to collect and file documents –such as weekly newspaper clippings.

“We need people to file family history documents. We regularly receive photographs of local people, houses and businesses, and they need to be sorted and filed.

“Without volunteers, without enthusiasm and eagerness to maintain the society, and therefore the history of Lancefield, Romsey, Newham, Darraweit Guim, Bolinda and the smaller surrounding villages, we will be closing our doors!

“If you don’t care about your history and heritage –do nothing. If you DO value and care about your town’s history and heritage –and wish to see it maintained –you can do something!

“Contact the society and offer your support,” the president suggested.

Email lancefieldcourthouse@gmail.com

Asea of rainbows and glitter

The Castlemaine Botanic Gardens came to life in asea of rainbows andglitter on Saturday as the local queer community came together for the annual pride picnic. H undreds of adults and children gathered in the autumn sunshine to enjoy good food, music and, of course, the all-important dog show.

The picnic was just the first of many events held in aweek-long series of performances, movies, art and music celebrating diversity during Castlemaine Pride Week.

The inaugural pride picnic was held in 2018 as away for the LGBTQIA+ community to heal after the difficult and emotional times of the marriage equality debate. In the past five years, the community has had some significant wins and too many losses, but through it all the community has continued the tradition of coming together once ayeartocelebrate.

Dhelkaya Health's LGBTQIA+ wellbeing officer Sherene Clow told the Express it was crucial for people to have safe spaces, both for themselves and their families.

"Queer people face higher social isolation and as aresult have worse health outcomes. These events are all about finding your tribe," Sherene said.

"Castlemaine Pride has grown so much since it first began and with 15 events this year, it's set to be the biggest yet."

One of the highlights of the festival was Saturday night's performance by legendary entertainer Dame Stan Munro, aformer local who has been performing drag across three continents for the past six decades.

Over the course of the weekend, locals and visitors enjoyed ascavenger hunt; exploring the goldfields and all things LGBTQIA+ across the region, atrans and gender-diverse clothing swap, tennis round robins, and afree art exhibition at the Market Building.

Worried you missed out on the fun? The week is not over yet! On Tuesday the Theatre

Royal will be screening aselection of short films from the Geelong Film Festival, the Northern Art Hotel will be series of 'Rainbow Shorts' from the Bendigo Queer Film Festival, local podcast Pride Across the Ages Season 2launches on Thursday night at the Phee

Broadway Theatre, Boomtown Wines is hosting adance party on Friday night and the Taproom will be hosting its second Pride PubSing on Saturday.

Head over to www.castlemainepride.org.au for the full program.

L-R: Long-time MainFM presenter Suzanne,MainFM station managerSteph and Dhelkaya LGBTQIA+ wellbeing officer Sherene celebrating at the Castlemaine Pride Picnic.

Dr Heather Wearne

Voicecampaigner to speak at Kyneton

This Friday, May 5, Dr Heather Wearne will be the guest speaker at Kyneton U3A.

Dr Wearne is aleading campaign convenor and educator on behalf of The Statement From the Heart Group –the leading campaigners for the Referendum on aFirst Nations Voice to Parliament and Constitutional Recognition.

Friday@U3A is aweekly presentation on atopic or issue of special interest. Speakers are often local, sometimes invited up from Melbourne and sometimes they have a video about music, art or natural history.

It all happens in the main hall at the Kyneton Mechanics Institute on Fridays during school term time. Presentations are at 2pm and finish up with acup of tea.

This program is open to the public –you do not have to be amemberofU3A Kyneton to attend.

Be there this Friday to find out how to ensure that the upcoming referendum has a positive outcome.

Greatnewsforthecountry thatwon’tcostacent

An open letter to Treasurer Jim Chalmers regarding the Budget

Dear Dr Chalmers, There’s acrisis in our country you can fix in your first budget, at no extra cost.

With the stroke of apen you could help secure the future of critical regional news services, using money already allocatedinthe budget.

All you need to do is allocate afairerpercentage of the federal government’s advertising budget to local and regional news services, rather than spending almost all of it with corporate capital city media and foreign-owned digitalplatforms (which don’t produce any content or employ any journalists).

This can be achieved by simply adopting the Victorian Govt policy that mandates a weekly full page government advertisement in every regionaland community paper

Local and regional newspapers connect more than 80% of the country,but they get almost 0% of the government advertisingspend.

In an era where false news spreads faster on social media than the truth does, trusted local news services reach more regionalAustralians than any other medium. And unlike other media, every government dollar spent with alocal newspaperisalso an investment in regional journalism jobs. This shouldn’tbecontroversial.

Arecent parliamentary inquiryrecommended that aminimum of 20% of government print advertising should be placed with regional news services. Arecent study conducted by Deakin University recommended the same thing. In fact, the Minister for Communications, Michelle Rowland, has been advocating for more regional newspaper advertising formany years.

We know there may be bigger budget issues, but this small policy change would be a simple and fair solution to agrowing problem for regional Australia. Apolicythatensures weekly federal government advertising is placed in regional newspapers would be great news for the country.

And it won’t cost you acent.

Yours sincerely,

Andrew Manuel

Tony Kendall President Managing Director Country Press Australia Australian Community Media

Authorised by A Manuel, 9 Howe Street Balaklava SA 5461

Treasurereceivessome polish

Lisa Dennis

Community members gathered at Buda Historic Home and Garden in Castlemaine on Friday for the launch of four recently completed projects at the much-loved local tourist attraction.

Bendigo West MP Maree Edwards was in attendance to officially launch the projects, which include anew volunteer handbook, an updated visual display in Buda's historic tennis pavilion, new carpet in the sitting room, the repair of several windows with heritage glass panels, the installation of UV window tinting to protect Buda's precious collections, and new window coverings to replace blinds installed in the 1950s and 60s.

Buda committee president Bronwyn Rudolph welcomed all those in attendance including Ms Edwards, Castlemaine Art Museum trustee George Milford, and Buda committee members, staff and volunteers.

Ms Rudolph then invited committee member Christine Lloyd, who proudly led the initiative to develop the volunteer handbook, to outline the process of preparing the new offering that was paid for in-house.

Ms Lloyd explained the new document came about as the committee noted there were gaps in volunteers' understanding of how Buda worked and how the committee see them working for Buda.

House curator Meredith Blake then detailed how asuccessful grant application from the Regional Collections Access Program and permission from Heritage Victoria enabled them to install UV film on the windows of the house to reduce UV by up to 90 per cent and new roller blinds to protect the Buda collection.

The team were also successful in obtaining aLiving Local Regional Community Grant from the state government to enable

them to replace the threadbare green carpet in the sitting room and aRegional Collections Access Grant to upgrade the display cabinets in the tennis pavilion.

The new cabinet frames were built and fitted by local artists Michael Wolfe and Jamie Burke and the information display in the pavilion painstakingly revamped with new photographs and information by Buda volunteer and graphic designer Megan Stone.

Aussie premiere

The program for the 2023 Castlemaine Documentary Film Festival June 16-18 was officially launched at Castlemaine's Theatre Royal last Wednesday evening.

You can now view the 2023 program on the C-Doc website and snap up tickets for the 2023 event.

As awarm up to the June festival, you can also catch aC-Doc Pop-Up screening at the Theatre Royal tomorrow night, Wednesday May 3, featuring the Australian premiere of The UnRedacted –“The Most Cancelled Film of the Year” according to The Times

for the development of aMaster Plan –which I have read –and theteam are already speaking to me about what's next," Ms Edwards said.

"And thanks to our Living Heritage Grants program, we've provided more funding for various upgrade and preservation works.

The film will be followed by a live presentation and Q&A session with director Meg Smaker who will discuss what led to the film's blacklisting since its premiere at Sundance and how this film has now become the case study for freedom of speech and freedom of expression in the Arts.

at Romsey:

Bendigo West MP Maree Edwards said to be launching so many different projects so soon after the challenges of the past couple of years, represented the hard work of the volunteers and staff at the heritage site who were committed to seeing Buda improve and be awelcoming space for even more people from the local region and beyond.

"I was proud the state government was able to provide a$10,000 grant towards the new carpet and last year we also provided $60,000

"All of this funding and the many people who visit every year, is atestament to the work of the committee, volunteers and staff, in making sure the legacy of the Leviny family, and the architecture and history of this site, can be treasured by all.

"The future of Buda is bright and I'm looking forward to seeing what you undertake next," Ms Edwards said.

Participants capped off the celebrations with afamed Buda morning tea in the beautiful 'Garden Room' function space.

To find out the latest happenings at Buda, visit budacastlemaine.org

Shot over three years, the film tells the story of agroup of men trainedbyAl-Quaeda who were transferred from Guantanamo to the world’s first rehabilitation centre for 'terrorists' in Saudi Arabia.

Filmed with unprecedented access, Unredacted is acomplex and nuanced exploration of the men we have heard so much about but never heard from.

For tickets to Wednesday night's screening at Castlemaine's Theatre Royal or for tickets to the upcoming festival visit cdocff.com. au

Buda president Bronwyn Rudolph, committee member Chris Lloyd, house curator Meredith Blake and Bendigo West MP Maree Edwards are pictured alongside Buda’siconic tennis pavilion at Friday’slaunch.

Back

Orb spider inspires Bird s

Watching the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II gave Castlemaine author Carmel Bird the inspiration for ashort story in her latest collection of works.

"I watched the funeral on television and Isaw that on the bunch of flowers on her coffin there was alittle green spider," Bird told the Express "It was agreen orb weaver, and next to it on the coffin was the orb and the sceptre.

"Inspired by the spider, Idecided to write an interview between atelevision interviewer and aspider.

"It's called Margaret Orb-Weaver, The Interview."

The story is one of aseriesBird has published in her latest release, Love Letter to Lola

The author will be in conversation with journalist Jane Sullivan at the Bendigo Writers Festival this weekend.

"What Jane and Ihave planned to do is for Jane to be the interviewer and for me to be the spider," she said.

Bird has been aregular at the festival and looks forward to the sharing of ideas.

"I love the buzz and meeting new writers, and old writers, writing friends that I know from interstate and Melbourne who Idon't get to see, writers I've never heard of before and young and emerging writers," she said.

"And that part of View Street comes to

life with books, the Latrobe building and across the street at the Capital, the location is so beautiful and so historic and so booky."

Love Letter to Lola is acollection of short fiction and areflection on the writing of those stories.

"Love Letter to Lola is the first story of the book and Lola is an extinct blue macaw there are several stories about the extinction of species in this book," Bird said.

"I grew up in Tasmania and my father had actually seen the thylacine, which died in the Hobart Zoo in 1936, and with the death of that animal, the thylacine as aspecies died out.

"For several years now, scientists have been in the process of bringing back the thylacine from extinction.

"They're nearly there, they have a little bit if its DNA and they are somehow creating an embryo.

"There is alittleanimal called the dunnart, which is arelative of the thylacine, and they believe they can implant an embryo into it.

"The horror of the extinction of animals has interested me since Iwas achild."

Bird will be on stage at La Trobe Art Institute at 2.30pm on Sunday, May 7.

Bendigo Writers Festival takes place at various venues across the weekend.

To view the full program of events and secure your seat, visit: bendigowritersfestival.com.au

Angela Crawford

Castlemaine author Carmel Bird.

Volunte e

At the age of 76, Max Lesser is awellknown character with his bright red hat and driving around in his uniquely painted red car.

AresidentofChewton for the past 30 years, Max previously worked in government on building and planning.

While he has technically been ‘retired’ for the last 23 years, he volunteers in a variety of different roles including his previous work creating aportable youth bus and his volunteer work taking photos for the Castlemaine Mail on weekends for the past 20 years.

“Volunteering is inbuilt. Igowhere the opportunity arises,” Max said.

Max’s latest projects include educating people about the role of local government as ‘Councillor Peg’, going into schools and different community groups to explain how local government operates.

“There are people who don’t know what council is or that we have councillors that they can talk to,” Max said.

“It’s areallybig gap. And there is a shortage of young people going into local government.”

As part of this work, Max has designed and produced puzzles and playing cards, utilising designs created by school children.

The resources feature the ‘Garfield Wheel’ in Chewton and are aimed at helping young people understand connections and history.

The Garfield Wheel Jigsaw and Fish, Snap, and Memory playing cards are available for free at the Castlemaine Mail office at 13 Hargraves Street Castlemaine.

Max Lesser is awell-known character with his bright red hat and driving around in his uniquelypainted red car

No upgrade for Malmsbury street

There is no road bitumen upgrade planned for Adamson Street in Malmsbury in the near future despite apetitionfrom residents.

Residents had complained of dust, potholes and noise, stating that grader works were ineffective, lasting only days before more potholes appear. The petition suggested residents were prepared to negotiate contributions toward the upgrade.

In areport to Macedon Ranges Shire councillors last week, officers did not recommend upgrading the road to asealedroad based on the traffic count data.

“The observed average number of vehicle movements is 152 per day, consistent with this section of the road’s current categorisation and maintenance status,” the report stated.

“Most of the traffic observed on Adamson Street is generated by the residents living along Adamson Street, with additional minor traffic from the intersecting streets.”

Council officers said they had inspected the road and undertaken maintenance in accordance with the Road Management Plan.

They said heavy rainfall in October 2022 caused damage to many roads and resulted in a “prioritised response to maintenance issues”. The report states the council has caught up on the backlog and maintenance and inspection programs as planned.

Community grants open

Local community groups and organisations with acommunity-driven project or event idea are invited to apply for funding through Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s annual grants programs.

Applications for Council’s 2023-24 Community Funding Scheme and Events and Festivals grants programs are open until June 27, with totals of up to $160,000 and up to $75,000 available respectively.

Afreegrant writing workshop is being held on May 24, with council officers on hand to answer questions.

For information on the workshop, guidelines or to apply for either grant program, visit: mrsc.vic.gov.au/grants

Macedon Ranges stories from the 1983 Ash Wednesday fires have been captured in abook.

Memories of Ash Wednesday documents personal accounts from Bullengarook, Gisborne, Macedon and Mount Macedon residents who lived through the February 16 disaster.

Gisborne resident Bryan Power compiled and edited the stories for the project, which grew from acommemorative article for the Gisborne Gazette to mark the 40th anniversary of the fires.

"In the October Gazette Ihad asked people who were prepared to share their

stories to contact me," he said.

"I was hoping to get afew quotes for the feature article but instead Iwas contacted by 20 people, all of whom wanted their stories recorded."

From there, the idea for abook emerged and Bryan was inundated with community interest.

Bryan helped to capture 64 stories of individual and family survivors.

Of those, 14 wrote their own stories and Bryan interviewed and recorded the remaining 50.

The book also contains many pictures of the fire and the destruction immedi-

ately after, around Macedon and Mount Macedon.

Athol Guy launched Memories of Ash Wednesday at Jubilee Hall on Sunday. The Victorian Emergency Services Commissioner, Andrew Crisp was also in attendance.

The book can be purchased for $40 and will be available at the launch. It will also be available at the Trading Post and the newsagents in Gisborne and Macedon.

Any profits from the book after printing costs will be directed back to the community.

The memorial cross at Mount Macedon. Photo:

The giftof Thhe g giifft t o of f comfort c coomfort

Before Bob McDonald passed away in the palliative care ward at Dhelkaya Health, he shared precious time with his wife Eileen.

It was Bob's wish that Eileen gift the ward achair likethe onethat had provided him some comfort in his final days.

The ward is aplace where people can stay close to loved ones in acomfortable and supportive environment surrounded by caring staff.

For staff, it’s challenging but incredibly rewarding to provide the very personalised physical and emotional support needed by each patient and their family at such an important time.

Bob and Eileen showed how much this care meant to them by making agift that will provide alasting benefit for the care of others in similar situations.

Eileen recently presented the palliative care ward with aprincess chair.

“It was Bob’s idea, I’m doing what he asked me to do," Eileen said.

"Bob was in Bendigo for 10 days before coming back to Castlemaine. They had achair similar to that in Bendigo, they could take him outside and he loved sitting in the sun.”

The princess chair has adjustable air cell support to relieve pressure and increase comfort. The chair has wheels to make it easy for staff to move patients

around and outside into the sun, if they wish.

For Eileen, it was something she and Bob wanted to do to show how much they appreciated the care they received in their community and the little comforts that made all the difference.

“I wanted to say thanks to all those beautiful people on the palliative care ward. When it comes to funding, palliative care can sometimes be at the end of the line but we were so grateful to have the care we did in Castlemaine Health.”

Sue Race, CEO of Dhelkaya Health (amalgamating Castlemaine Health, CHIRP Community Health and Maldon Hospital), reinforced what adifference adonation like this made to the sensitive and personalised care that Dhelkaya Health staff provide.

“The support from our community for the ward providing our palliative care service has been transformational," she said.

"It isn’t just about the clinical aspects but about surrounding our patients and families with an environment where their wider needs can be met.

"With this thoughtful gift from Bob and Eileen, we have even better resources for providing that much-needed end-of-life care.

"It is incredibly rewarding for the staff to be appreciated in this way and we are deeply grateful."

Geroe nurseunitmanagerSteve Warren is pictured with Eileen McDonald and the donated chair.

Capturingour ruralheritage

Anew exhibition exploring rural heritage in central Victoria opens at Newstead Arts Hub on May 6with adisplay of Rodney Marchant's monochrome prints.

"The exhibition documents my journeys

around central Victoria exploring what I see as rural heritage," Marchant said.

"This covers awide variety of subjects some of which are (or could be) covered by heritage orders and those that are left

to the termites or are bulldozed by landowners. They all have astory.

"The images are all monochrome and were made with amodifiedcamera and processed without 'photoshopping' the

skies, or indeed any sort of compositing."

Rural Heritage will be on display from May 6toMay 18. Newstead Arts Hub 8A Tivey Street –open weekends from 10am to 4pm.

CASTLEMAINE CHAMBER MUSIC SERIES

‘ELYANE LAUSSADE ANDFRIENDS’ CONCERTTWO

ELYANE LAUSSADE (piano) KRISTENLEICH (mezzo-soprano)

SUNDAY MAY14TH 3PM

ANGLICANCHURCHONAGITATION HILL

The program includes music of Purcell, Mozart,Schubert, and Schumann. The program also includes 'Cinq Melodies' by Faure, piano transcription by Percy Grainger of Faure's 'Apres un Reve' and songs by William Bolcom,

Bookings on Trybooking

‘CastlemaineChamber MusicSeries’ or ticketsatthe door

$40or$35 Concession KN271351

Mothers Day Melodies

On May 13, Sunbury comes alive with the stunning sounds of multi-award winning female pop choir the Divine Divas Show Choir, along with Rainbow Voices Community Choir and the U3A Kyneton Community Choir, in aconcert not to be missed.

Mothers Day Melodies is astunning celebration of song through the decades and is the perfect tonic to treat that special 'mum' in your life.

From Cole Porter through to Katy Perry, this is ashowsure to entertain the whole family.

Asumptuous afternoon tea follows the 70-minute performance.

Tickets are just $15.

St. Andrews Uniting Church, 10-20 Barkly Street, Sunbury. Saturday, May 13, 1pm.

www.trybooking.com/CHEGU

The Divine Divas ShowChoir

RodneyMarchant’smonochrome prints suchasthisone of Castlemaine’sImperial Hotel will feature at the Newstead Arts Hub.

Marchant’satmospheric imageswill be on showatthe Newstead venue from May6to18. C

MTORING

Time to headtoHistoric Winton Tiime e o heeaad t to H Historriic

The 46th Historic Winton car and motorcycle event this month will be full of its usual spectacular style with races, car park displays, delicious food and marketplace of motoring and biking-related goods.

Organised by the Austin 7Club Inc, president Len Kerwood said Historic Winton on May 27 and 28 would once again see competitors, motor enthusiasts and motorsport fans flock to Winton Motor Raceway for Australia’s most iconic historic motorsport event.

“We are thrilled to be back again with another weekend of fun for all the family,” Len said.

He said anew race had been placed on the 2023 program, aRegularity for NClass ‘tin tops’ touring cars up to 1965.

“This will be staged for the first time and is expected to add to the spectacle,” Len said. “The traditional highlight of the Sunday Parade returns, which always has crowds enthralled.

“We get alot of requests to join in the Sunday Parade because everyone wants to do of lap of Winton Motor Raceway in their ‘pride and joy’ car, motorbike, bus, fire engine or other mode of land transport.

“Vehicles are selected for the parade on Sunday morning with invitations placed on windscreens.”

Clubs and individuals are invited to display their cars and motorcycles that reach notable milestones in 2023. Here is the anniversary list:

120 years –Buick Motor Company, Ford Motor Company, Standard Motor Company, Harley Davidson, Vauxhall

110 years –MorrisOxford Bull Nose, Aston Martin.

100 years –Alvis 12/50, Amilcar CGS, BMW Motorcylces, MG, Triumph (cars).

90 years –SingerNine, Morris Ten.

75 years –Land Rover, Morris Minor, Porsche 356,

Tickets to win

Vauxhall Velo ,Vauxhall Wyvern, Citroen 2CV.

70 years –FJHolden, 1st Redex Trial, Sunbeam Alpine, Triumph TR2, Lagonda, MG Magnette.

60 years –Corvette Stingray, EH Holden, Lightburn Zeta, Hillman Imp,

WIN ADOUBLEPASS TO HISTORIC WINTON

The Midland Express has five double passes to give away to five lucky readers to attend the Historic Winton weekend on May 27 and 28.

To go in the draw, email your entry to vhornbuckle@midnews.com.au by close of business on Tuesday May 9.

Put the wording 'Historic Window draw' in the email subject line and in the body of the email include your name, address (including postcode) and daytime phone contact number. Winners of the double passes will be notified and have the tickets posted to them. Only one entry per email or postal address will go in the draw.

Triumph 2000, Vauxhall Viva.

50 years –Leyland P76

Other displays in 2023: Postie bikes, cycle karts, vintage speedsters, vintage motorbikes.

Anyone wishing to attend with their anniversary vehicle/s should contact

Still in fine form f fiine forrm

Motorcycle racing legend Bob Rosenthal will once again give fellow competitors agood ‘run for their money’ at 46th Historic Winton this month at Winton Motor Raceway.

As an indicator of his consistent form throughout his racing life, he has won 16 of his last 18 starts and placed second and third once.

This is pretty typical of his track record, winning about 30 per cent of his races and making the podium 60 per cent of the time.

Rosenthal was determined to be amotorcycle racer from an early age.

“I forged my Mum’s signature afew times when Iwas 17 and never got picked up on it,” he said. “I was only one year too young with the legal age being 18.”

He said that he had two careers in motorcycle racing, the first beginning around 1965 for Milledge Yamaha and the second as ahistoricracer.

Rosenthal retired in 1978, but the miraculous thing was that after a35-year break, he returned with the same champion form as before.

“My second career, which began in 2013, only came about because Iwas offered to ride some

Bob Rosenthal competing

nice bikes,” he said. “At Historic Winton this year, I’ll be riding a 1962 Norton ESA

Sunday.

“On the Sunday at Historic Winton, I’ll be competing in the inaugural Doug Hicks Trophy, which I’m really looking forward to,” Rosenthal said.

In 2022, Rosenthal won all four of his Historic Winton races. But in 2021, he won two and came second and third to international champion Cameron Donald who is known for two big wins at the

the Historic Winton organisers by email at displays@historicwinton.org.

Event and camping tickets are can be purchased at adiscounted price at this link: ticketebo.com.au/historicwinton

Photo:

Isle of Mann TT Festival.

The 46th Historic Winton is Australia’s most popular and longest running historic motorsport event and includes car, motorbike and sidecar races.

Children 17 and under are free but must be booked online and accompanied by an adult.

Discounted tickets are available online from historicwinton. org.

Full-priced tickets will also be available at the Huntley Street gate of Winton Motor Raceway on the weekend.

(Photo: Chris Carter)

at Historic Winton.

Colin Rosewarne

in the P3 500cc Unlimited races on the Saturday and

Photo: Neil Hammond

SUPER QUIZ?

Local knowledge (1 point)

1. Run the Rock is an event that takes place where?

2. Who compiled the 2023 book Memories of Ash Wednesday?

3. Who is Mount Alexander Shire Council’s CEO?

4. Where will controversial film The Unredacted be showing on May 3? (3 points)

5. This year represents how many for the Bendigo Writer’s Festival?

General knowledge (1

point)

6. How many valves does atypical human heart have?

7. Who won the 2023 Australian Open women’s singles tennis?

8. Complete the catch-phrase: “It’s moments like these you need...”

9. Which of the following is the most venomous creature: cone snail, funnel-web spider, taipan, stonefish, or box jellyfish?

(3 points)

10. Where in the world would you find Lake Huron?

Let’s see what comesofit Ian Braybrook,Castlemaine

Iwas one of many who attended the housing crisis forum at the Castlemaine Town Hall recently where many ideas, facts and suggestions were put forward. Representatives of the three levels of government were present to answer the variety of questions and the suggestions raised. These included MPs Maree Edwards and Lisa Chesters, and Mount Alexander Shire mayor Rosie Annear. Representatives of several related organisation attended and it was quite successful.

The discussion centred around the shortage of housing and the high cost of renting. (This is nothing new to me. In 1961 Ipaid seven pounds aweek rent for avery rundown house in Williamstown from my fourteen pounds aweek wage).

Acoupleofworthwhile suggestions were raised privately with me by amember of the audience but not presented for discussion. Perhaps they should have been because on reflection Ibelieve they should be pursued.

The idea is based on the excessive size of modern constructions and the use of scarce building materials and labour. We see it everywhere; huge homes occupied by maybe two adults and two children and often just one couple. But why? Is it really necessary? Maybe it’s good for the ego and asort of competition. Like “mine’s bigger than yours”.

In most cases amodest14square house would easily suffice. Sure it’s a person’s right to build big if they want to but Ilike the suggestion that big houses should come at bigger cost. Abig taxonhomes above aprescribed moderate size. Maybe not popular, but the money raised could build homes for the needy and help ease pressure on the shortages of workers and materials we are told is aprimary cause of the costs and shortages.

Iraised the matter of amuch-needed retirement village for Castlemaine and asked what the council was doing to encourage and support the idea. It seems the huge effort to get avillage up and running that we made about four years ago was apparently sunk by the government minister responsible on the recommendation of our shire council?

Let’s see what comes out of this meeting.

End this practice once andfor all

Lisa Palma, CEO, WildlifeVictoria

Wildlife Victoria has found overwhelming evidence of hunter non-compliance

Well doneall

on dayone of the Victorian Government’s 2023 duck hunting season.

Four blue-winged shovelers and one hardhead were brought to the Wildlife Victoria veterinary triage tent either dead on arrival or with lethal gunshot wounds. Both species are listed as threatened under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 and are illegal to shoot.

One of the blue-winged shovelers arrived semi butchered. The bird arrived with both wings removed, the breast flesh cut off the animal, and its chest skinned. An x-ray found the bird had been shot through the heart.

In addition to threatened duck species, three non-game species waterfowl were caught in the crossfire. All were dead upon arrival at the veterinary triage tent.

All evidence of non-compliance, including x-rays of threatened species riddled with gunshot wounds will be handed over to the Game Management Authority. Unfortunately, prosecution is thought to be unlikely with no GMA officers on site at the wetlands to supervise shooter compliance.

Today we have seen veryfew shooters –yet just one gun can cause substantial damage. Ifinditextraordinary that in the first few hours of the first day of duck hunting, with apublicinquiry looming, we have once again found substantive evidence of non-compliance with duck shooting regulations.

It’s clearly time for the Victorian Government to end this practice once and for all.

Makearacket

HarryCoulson, Melbourne musician

Ihave been aregular guest on ABC Statewide Drive for the past eight-plus years.

Ilearned that the Statewide Drive program meant so much for the people of rural Victoria, many of whom still listen to the radio rather than jump on the internet for any info on local matters that matter to them. It was their voice and Iwas proud to be apart of it.

The show however has now not run for amonth, with no communication from ABC management as to why it has been pulled off air, nor when it will return.

Instead, listeners get patched into the Melbourne broadcast and given the traffic report for the ring road every 15 minutes, which is of course about as useful to them as an ashtrayonamotorbike.

I’m not so worried about losing my soapbox, I’ll adapt and find something else to do, but Iworry that the audience that Igrew to love are getting stitched up. Experience has taught me that if someone

doesn’t tell you what is going on it means they are doing something that you aren’t going to like.

ABC management are certainly fitting thatprofile at the moment.

I’ll ask this of anyone now who may have ever listened in.

If you want your voices heard on adedicated platform ring up your local radio station and demand to know when Statewide Drive will be back on air,email management, complain on FB, ring Ita Buttrose, whatever you can.

Make aracket, don’t lie down and let them pull your voices off the air, don’t think that just because you aren’t metro Melbourne that you don’t matter because you certainly matter to me.

Gisborne's potholedroads

SarahHumphreys,age 15,Gisborne

Iwould like to express my frustration at how bad the Macedon Ranges’ roads are, and the roadworks that are being done.

Ihave seen that the west side of Wyralla Crescent has been resurfaced as well as the whole of Morilla Court. Why were these works done?

These roads were absolutely fine, and did not need any work done to them.

Furthermore, the beginning of Mount Gisborne Road has also been resurfaced, why is that?

It was not the smoothest road but compared to the middle of Mount Gisborne Road, past the turnoff for Woodland Drive, it was absolutely fine, so why is that part of the road not being fixed?

People have to swerve onto the other side of the road to avoid potholes and bumps in the road.

If this happens late at night, in the day with bad visibility or alearner driver has to go over those bumps or swerve, there is achance of amassive accident happening. Are we going to wait for that to happen, or are we going to fix the roads and possibly save someone’s life?

Icould go on and on about roads in Gisborne and surrounding areasthat have bad roads but this letter would be way too long so I’ll just name afew roadsthat are full of potholes that could damage cars off the top of my head… Hamilton Street, in front of Foodworks, parts of Kilmore Road, Couangalt Road (mostly near the intersection of Blackhill Road), Prince Street (outside of the Ambulance Station near the intersection), AitkenStreet (outside of the cemetery) andMelton Road in Bullengarook that hasroadworks signs up, butnothing's happening.

Reinhard

G. Goschiniak,president, RomseyLancefield RSL Sub-Branch

The Romsey Lancefield RSL would like to sincerely thank all community members who attended the Anzac Daycommemoration services at the Romsey and Lancefield Cenotaphs on Tuesday April 25, Anzac Day.

Approximately 40-50+ people attended the wreath laying service at Romsey, while close to 1000 attended the service at Lancefield.

One of the highlights of the Lancefield service was the vintage aircraft fly-past from the Kyneton Aero Club, which was led by aWorld WarIIvintage deHavilland Tiger Moth.

Unfortunately the ADF was unable to provide the community with acatafalque part for the service.

The service was ably supported by the Romsey Encourage Church's Paster Tim Emonson, and Bridget McAuley with the delightful rendition of the Last Post and Rouse.

The Lancefield Neighbourhood House supplied the now traditional post-service light refreshments. Well done everybody.

To cap off atraditional Anzac Day, the Gorman family from the Lancefield Hotel hosted the obligatory Two-Up game in the beer garden during the afternoon with the proceeds being donated to the RSL.

On behalf of our sub-branch, Iwould like to thank everybody concerned and involved this year that made the day the success it was.

On of the highlights was that instead of aguest speaker,

we invited three students from St Mary’s, Romsey and Lancefield Primary Schools to read aletter, which were sent from diggers serving on the front line in World War Iand Vietnam. Well done, and also athank you to the teachers who made it possible. And last but not least thank you to the Bendigo Bank for providing the RSL with anew PA system that actually worked this year, and no complaints from the attendees for not being able to hear the proceedings. Well doneall concerned.

White Crosses complete with Australian National Flags in memoryof fallen diggerduring war surrounding the flower bed at the Lancefield Cenotaph during Anzac Day.

Coastal-inspired countryliving

This light-filled coastal-inspired three-bedrooom weatherboard home with high raked ceilings and beautiful timber-lined walls create asense of spaciousness and character that immediately captures your attention.

The expansive 1,182m² corner block is in asheltered position on aquiet street with views of nearby farmland.

As you enter the property through the automatic front gate, the garden and surrounds feel peaceful. Stepping inside, you’re greeted by two spacious living areas that flow seamlessly together making it ideal to host large gatherings.

The layout allows for flexible use of the space, with the option to easily convert one of these living spaces into agrand master or guest suite complete with an ensuite, providing afourth bedroom.

The main living area boasts exposed timber shelves on either side of the cosy wood fireplace. In its central location, it keeps the home toasty warm in the colder months.

Moving into the mealsand kitchen area, the industrial-style kitchen is both stylish and functional, featuring alarge 900mm Westinghouse cooker, white cabinetry, aspacious sink with mixer, and beautiful timber benchtops. Plenty of cupboard space and awalk-in pantry ensure all your storage needs are met.

Further down the hallway, three large bedrooms

with built-in robes, amodern family bathroom with a fully tiled shower, double sinks, and aluxurious bath await. The laundry is conveniently located nearby, featuring floor-to-ceiling cupboards along one wall. Additional storage is provided by the separate coat cupboard and linen cupboard.

The property is appointed with many desirable features, including hybrid wide plank flooring, timber panelled feature walls, skylights that flood the space with natural light, sleek black fans and split system air conditioning in both the kitchen, master bedroom and second bedroom.

Outside, it is aclean slate. Green thumbs will be excited to establish from scratch the garden of their dreams. In addition, there is adouble carport attached to the home, providing easy parking options, and anewly constructed three-bay shed with aconcrete floor. The new fencing and 70,000 litre water tank make this acomplete package.

Malmsbury is asmall and welcoming community, and the home is ashort stroll to the Malmsbury Reservoir, historic train station and to Mollison Street, the main street of town, where there are vintage, antique and curiosity shops, ageneral store and a well-regarded family-owned bakery. The village of Malmsbury is approximately 70 minutes’ drive from Melbourne and less than six minutes northwest from Kyneton. It’s also accessible by areliable and fast V/ Line train service.

Property: Weatherboardhome on large corner block

Address: 18 Fraser Street,Malmsbury

Pricerange: $680,000 –$730,000

Agent: BroadhurstProperty

Contact: 1300 380 980

Many homeownersoften wonderwhen the best time to selltheir property is.Whilethe spring andsummer months are traditionally consideredthe primetimetosella home, thereare several benefitstoselling your home in theautumn months.Asweenter thelastmonth of Autumn,hereare some advantages of selling your home now

Less Competition

In thespringand summermonths,many homeowners rushtoput theirhomesonthe market,leading to increasedcompetition amongsellers.Bychoosing to sell your home in theautumn,you have less competition as fewerhomeownersopt to sell during this time.Thiscouldmeanthatyour home stands outmore to potential buyers, increasing thelikelihood of aquicker sale

More SeriousBuyers

Theautumnmonths tend to attractmore seriousbuyersasmanypeoplelookingto buyahome during this time are doingsofor aspecific reason, such as ajob relocation or achangeinfamilycircumstances.This meansthatpotential buyers are more likely to be pre-approved fora mortgage,have theirfinancesinorder,and be ready to make an offeronyour home

Selling in Autumn

More AccuratePricing

In thespringand summer months,home prices canbeinflateddue to thehigh demand forproperties.Byselling your home in theautumn, youmay have amore accurate pricingstrategy,asthe market tendstobemorestableduringthistime. Thiscould mean that youare less likely to overpriceyourhome andmore likely to receivefairoffersfrom potential buyers

Beautiful Landscapes

Theautumn months bringbeautiful foliage andcoolertemperatures,makingitanideal time to showcaseyourhome's landscaping Potential buyers will appreciate thecolourful leaves andbeautiful scenery, whichcan help create apositivefirst impression of your property

Easier to Stage

As theweather coolsdown, it becomes easier to stageyourhome forpotential buyers.You canuse warm,cosyfabricsand colourstocreate awelcoming atmosphere andmakeyourhomefeelmore inviting Youcan also make smalladjustmentssuch as lightingcandles or adding seasonal decorationstocreate amore homely feel

More Flexibility

During autumn,potential buyers maybe moreflexiblewiththeir schedules as the busy summer season hasended. This meansthattheymay be morewillingto attend open houses or schedule showings during theweek, whichcan help speedup thesales process

We still have time to list your property in autumn,our agency is fast to executelisting campaignsand canlist your property within aweekofappointment. Call us todayto arrange aconfidential appraisal of your home

114 Flynns Lane, Kyneton

Flynns Hill-AScenic Rural Estate

Open this Saturday &Sunday

11.30am -12.15pm

For Sale

EPR: $3,000,000- $3,300,000

43 3 5.87 hectares (14.5 acres)

Allgreat rural properties arouse astrongvisceral reactionand this private, family sanctuary is no exception. Beautifully styled,takingonthe European vernacular of therural homesteadwithastrongconnectiontothe landscapeand stunningrural vistas, the395 sqmhomeseamlesslymarries thelightness andtransparency of modern construction. Thistruly one-of-a-kind rural property is arare find.Combining exceptionalproximity to Kynetonand meticulous formal landscaping, it is aproperty that trulystandsout from therest. The interior is acelebrationofperfectly selected andfinishedmaterials,exemplifiedbyEuropean oakflooring, internal barn doorsand plantation shutters that usher in viewsfromevery angle.

32 Mollison Street, Kyneton

Open this Saturday 10.15am -10.45am

For Sale

EPR: $580,000- $630,000

1930sCaliforniaBungalow Ripe for Renovation

Introducinga rare gem in this highlysought-afterdress circle location, this period home is theperfect opportunityfor those withvision. The unrenovated property is aproverbialblankcanvascomprising 5principal rooms, each boasting many hallmarksofthe era, including originalmantlepieces,high ceilings,and cornices

19 Jessie Evelyn Crescent, Kyneton

Family Livingatits Best

18 Fraser Street, Malmsbury

Open this Saturday 1.00pm -1.30pm

For Sale

EPR: $680,000 -$730,000

For Sale

EPR: $850,000- $900,000

Bigonlifestyle,thisspaciouspropertyticks all theboxes fora comfortable andconvenientlifestyle witheverythinga4bedroom home couldoffer.With an elegantflowand smartdesign,the open plan format,aswellasquiet living zones, are ideal forfamilies. Activitycan spill to theoutdoors witha large, covereddiningareamakingentertainingfamilyand friendseasy.

338Shepherds Hill Road, Lauriston

Coastal Inspired Country Living Carringbush

Thislight filledcoastal inspired3 bedrooomweatherboard home with high rakedceilings andbeautifultimber-linedwalls createa senseofspaciousness andcharacter that immediatelycaptures your attention. Theexpansive1,182m² corner block is in asheltered position on aquiet street with viewsofnearby farmland

Open this Saturday 2.00pm -2.45pm & Sunday 12.45pm-1.30pm

For Sale

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

'Carringbush'isa stunningnaturelovers’ paradise. The2bedroom weatherboard home,with aseparatestudio/ 3rdbedroom,features a contemporarycharcoalexterior, that dissolves into the lush gardensurrounds, ensuringthe 9.5ha(approx.23acres)landscape is trulyadmiredand appreciated. Fullyfenced, the propertyboasts threedams, twoofwhich are spring fed, attracting native birdlifewith asereneoutlook that is sure to impress.

(approx.23 acres)

9Ewing Street, Tylden

Privateand Secluded Oasis

From themomentyou arrive,thischarmingcountry home exudesacalming effect withits serene house shelteredbya garden lover'sparadise, seton 1.27ha (approx. 3.14 acres).Timelesselements such as classic multi-pane windows completewithshutters, French doors,pale hardwearingfloors, neutral palette,and sloped ceilings create awarmand inviting atmosphere,and the breathtakingfloor to ceiling views of thegardenfromevery room make the outdoors feel like an extensionofthe indoorspace

1.27 ha (3.14 acres)

SOLD

152 BlackhillRoad, Kyneton

Tranquil Family Living In The Golf Course Precinct 31

Discreetlyset backfrom the road,thiselevated, park-likepropertyprovides amplespaceand privacyonasprawling2.04ha (approx. 5acres)ofland. As youwindupthe long driveway,you'llimmediatelyfeelasenseofarrival,greeted by afamily home encircledbyadeepverandah andavariedlow maintenance garden. With self-effacingqualities, thehomedissolves into thesurrounds creatingahaven forits occupants whocan admire thebirdlifeand friendly native visitors

42.04ha(5acres)

More Listings

75A Mitchell Street, Kyneton COMING SOON

EPR: $1,350,000 -$1,450,000

Stunning4 bedroom Edwardianinspiredhomeona 1,290sqm corner allotment

OPEN SATURDAY ANDSUNDAY 10.30am -11.15am

18

SturtStreet,

Kyneton

EPR: $680,000 -$730,000

Comfortable 4bedroom Edwardianhomewithgreatrenovation potential

OPEN SATURDAY12.30pm -1.00pm

92

FoxesLane, Kyneton

Tranquil Family Livingwith Room to Grow

For Sale

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

Privately setamongst 2.01 hectares(5acres approx.) amongst majestic gumsand graniteoutcrops, this classic homesteadhas longdistrict views fromthe frontverandah andisinfusedwithabundantnorthernlight.The hubofthe home is an entertainer's kitchenwithadjoining family/meals area plus twospaciousliving zones, 3large bedrooms(master with walk through robe andensuite bathroom), central bathroom withseparatetoilet,oversized laundryand generousstorageticking many boxesfor a growingfamily

2.01 ha (5 acres)

74 Mitchell Street, Kyneton

EPR: $650,000 -$700,000

Northfacing3 bedroom home in tranquil garden setting. OPEN SATURDAY10.30am -11.00am

2Castles Crescent, Kyneton

EPR: $620,000 -$670,000

Northfacing3bedroom home in thehospital precinct offering blue chip investment potential

OPEN SATURDAY3.15pm- 3.45pm

Located in aquiet court in ahighly sought after area of Castlemaine, at just 12 months old, this immaculate home is sure to impress upon first inspection.

Aneat, landscaped front yard and modern façade offers awelcome entry, the contemporary styling throughout creates alight and fresh feel.

To the right of entry is the formal lounge, the spacious master bedroom is located at the front of the home with awalk-in robe and ensuite.

Further down off the entry hall is the study, aperfect little space to work from home or help the kids with their homework.

The light filled open plan dining, living and kitchen enjoys the afternoon sun. The kitchen features expansive stone bench tops, walk-in panty, 900mm freestanding oven with gas stove top and island bench. Off the

Modern perfection FORSALE

kitchen is the spacious laundry with external access.

Off the main living area is asecond hallway which houses the remaining three bedrooms, all with built-in robes, the family bathroom and separate toilet.

Extra features include double glazed windows, ducted heating and cooling throughout for all year round comfort.

The large sliding door from the main living area opens out to an undercover alfresco area, ideal for indooroutdoor entertaining. The outdoor area has been fully landscaped with adesignatedfirepit area, which are fully maintained with an automated sprinkler system.

Walking distance to the Botanical Gardens and the popular Mill precinct, primary and secondary schools, only athree-minute drive to Castlemaine CBD and train station making it an easy commute to Melbourne.

Property: Immaculate12month old, four bedroom, twobathroom home

Address: 3Cochrane Court, Castlemaine

Price: $935,000

Agent: Keogh Real Estate

Contact: 5472 1248

37 Bull Street, Castlemaine

ElegantHistoricalBrick Home (1898) “Balerno”

-Wonderful originalfeatures throughout

-Choice, central, soughtafter location

-Landscapedgardens andingroundpool

-4 bedrooms, 2livingrooms,2 bathrooms

-Cellar, plus other usefulstudiospace and/or storage

-Walking distance to heartofCastlemaine 4

58 Elizabeth Street, Castlemaine

Price $1,750,000

Comfortable Home on SpaciousBlock

-Generous801sqm allotment

-Freshly paintedthroughout

-Establishedgardens

-Sideaccess

-3 bedrooms, 1loungeroom,1 bathroom

-Doublegarage/workshop(6m x7.5m)

-Onlya short5 minutedrivetoCastlemaine CBD

Price $865,000

Picturesque Durham

Providing asuperb opportunity in the centre of the Harcourt Valley, the farmlet Durham offers an exceptional lifestyle in afriendly, close-knit community. The classic mud-brick and local sandstone homestead has been well-loved and maintained and incorporates warm feature timber finishes throughout. Apicturesque property of 10 acres, there’s plenty to do at work or play –stroll the brick paths in leafy gardens, meander through 2.5 acres of mature olive grove, explore shady nooks, entertain on the verandah or farm the extensive paddocks which are ideal for grazing.

The residence is of 187m2 with three bedrooms, two living zones, plus aformaldining room. Features

include polished concrete and cork flooring. The central country kitchen has astainless steel gas cooker, dishwasher and walk-in pantry.

The family lounge room is complete with awood fire heater and aconservatory style living space with garden aspect.

North and south garden verandahs with grapevines offer peaceful sitting spaces to take in the property.

Outside is asecure garage, two carports, stables with machinery shed space and several other small outbuildings.

There are two dams, 50,000L tank water and a 4.75meg irrigation water entitlement.

Property: Country retreaton10acres with an olive grove and irrigation water

Address: 22 Douglas Lane,Harcourt

Price: $1,495,000

Agent: Belle Property Castlemaine

Contact: 5470 5811

4/12 SaintStreet, Castlemaine

1 1 260

•Saintly central position with garden aspect

•Two-bedroom villaunitoffers classic style and modern amenity

•Northfacing brick pavedgarden courtyard

•Lock up single garage

RobWaller 0418 571130

BlasiMulholland 0417 311733

Forsale $625,000 View Saturday 6thMay 10.30am-11.00am

3 1

1

•Classic features including verandah entry, polishedfloorboards&high ceilings

•Traditional4 roomlayout &updated kitchen

•The garden is atrue oasis; there are large shade trees, mature plants &green lawns

35 Newstead Road, Maldon

5 2 6 4.4

•3 bedroom main house, lounge, dining, modern kitchen,4th bed/study

•1 bedroom unit, updatedthroughout with separate bedroom

•4 car garage with concrete floor

BlasiMulholland 0417 311733

RobWaller 0418 571130

Belle Property Castlemaine |5470 5811 167 Barker Street, Castlemaine

Belle Property Maldon |5475 1055 30A Main Street, Maldon

belleproperty.com

Forsale $695,000-$715,000 View Saturday6th May 10.00am-10.30am

Mt Alexander Views Estate |Ireland St,McKenzie Hill

420 -917

•Stage 2- available now

•Register to secure your lot

•17lots withblocksfrom420m2 -917m2

•Titles expected Nov- Dec2023

RobWaller 0418 571130

Scan

RobWaller 0418 571130 KN271340

Forsale $245,000-$359,000 View By appointment

Midland

PROPER TY &L IVING

What abeautifulgarden

This excellent brick veneer home is located in the heart of the Macedon township within easy walking distance to the shops, V-Line station, Macedon Primary School and all other community facilities, and features agarden that has been developed as a private arboretum.

Accommodation includes entrance, living room, kitchen/ meals area, three bedrooms, study, two bathrooms, ahuge indoor/outdoor living room and integrated double garage.

Among the many very colourful species in the garden (separate list available) are blue spruce, several maples, golden ash, liquidambar, aspens, atulip tree, camellias and rhododendrons plus an orchard with apples, apricots, plums, hazelnuts and grapes.

Other features includes excellent privacy from established hedges, hot house, garden workshop and very functional flat lawn spaces.

The residence is ripe for some renovation, which would considerably enhance the property.

Property: Executors realisation sale in the heart of the township

Address: 6Emerald Avenue,Macedon

Auction: SaturdayMay 6@ 11am

Agent: Keatings Real Estate

Contact: 54272999

Springhill-Trentham

70 Landers Road (off ColibanRoad)

Only an 8minutedrive to Trentham

“Hortensia"Anexceptional botanical garden oasis on 8Ha(20 acres)

Ahiddentreasureand enchantingcountryretreat nestled in atotally private location with abeautiful garden featuring manycolourful deciduous trees,and twolakes with water lilies,plus an orchard.

Accommodation includes entry/sitting room,large dining/living area, 3bedrooms,bathroom &w.c

Thestunning garden with watersupply from natural springs wasdesigned by abotanist andincludes numerous varietiesofplants and trees specifically selected forthe climate whichattracts amyriad of bird lifeincluding kookaburrasand blue wrens.

Other features include 2furtherdams,anexcellent bore, an extensivegardenwatering system, solar power, aback-up generator, an elaborate securitysystemand a machineryshed/garage/studio withbathroom.

Thereisapproximately 9acres of redsoilgrazing land thatwould be ideal foravineyard, some natural bush and the property adjoins the Wombat StateForest on three sides with excellentaccess to riding tracks.The property has been used as an Airbnb and guests comments can be viewed by searching“Hortensia Airbnb”.

Auction Saturday27May at 11am

Reserve Price$1.75m

John Keating 0419 880 444

LancefieldGoldie

21 McEachernLane (Cnr MountWilliam Road) On

22.1 Ha (54.6 Acres)

An undeniably blissful ruralretreat in an idyllic and secluded setting

This exceptionalinnercountrylifestyle property is one of the hidden jewels of the Macedon Ranges.

Features include averyprivately sited4 bedroom residencenestled within abeautifulestablished garden setting overlooking astunning ornamental lake of approximately 8acres surfaceareaplus asecond separate2bedroom log cabin cottage

Superblifestyle features include aflood litmod grass tennis court, with adjacent bar-b-cue pavilion, 2box stable,tack room and aménage

Farming features include highly productivered volcanic soils,good pastures,6main paddocks,water troughs in each paddock,amachinery shed,cattle yards, and irrigation plumbing reticulatedvia underground mains to hydrants in three paddocks

Auction Saturday20May at 1pm(If notsoldprior)

Reserve Price $2.65m

John Keating 0419 880 444

Property: Rock Glen Cottage (circa 1880) on 5.91ha

Address: Lot1/25Dalrymple Road,Gisborne

Auction: Saturday27May @11am

Agent: Raine &Horne

Contact: KenGrech 0418 509 710

Ideallocation

Rock Glen Cottage is acharming Victorian ready and waiting for anew owner to give it back its past glory. With full verandas it is nestled behind dry stone walls and in acottage garden setting.

Extensive opportunities and asought after location between the Sunbury and Gisborne townships make Rock Glen a property not to be ignored. The cottage itself boasts high timber

ceilings, dado panelling, old skirting boards, numerous open fire places, two good sized bedrooms, akitchen/meals area with alarge open fire place, formal lounge and dining room.

Bonus features include separate studio/ guest room in need of some TLC, three bay carport with bluestone wall, four bay semi-enclosed machinery shed/hay shed, cattle yards, loading bay, race and views to the Macedon Ranges.

Character andcharm

With gorgeous street appeal and asurprisingly large allotment, there is alot to like about this property. Tastefully updated to ensure comfort and convenience without losing its character or charm, this renovated weatherboard home enjoys agenerous 2084m2 (approx.) allotment with two street frontages and current planning permission for subdivision.--

Past the pretty picket fence and the brick lined driveway, in traditional format the home opens to acentral hallway with two bedrooms on either side. The larger master bedroom with its own ensuite also flows from the hallway. All three bedrooms have built-in storage and ceiling fans. Afourthbedroom is offered in the way of an independent studio with power connected. Aperfect retreat, work from home space or guest accommodation.--

Returning inside, the home opens at the rear with acombined kitchen/dining and living space, alight relaxed area thanks to the well positioned windows and glass stacker doors that lead to the covered outdoor entertaining area. Wood heaters both inside and out bring acosy feel to the living spaces, and split systems and ceiling fan keep things cool in the warmer months.--

Acontemporary take on the country style, the kitchen incorporates stone and touches of wood to create arelaxed aesthetic with all the modern conveniences including induction

cooktop, electric oven and dishwasher. Also updated, the main bathroom incorporates a European laundry and there is aseparate toilet.--

Once outside, the charm continues with meandering paths, established gardens and children’s play areas. The block then opens up to aseparatefenced yard offering an excellent space to kick afooty, grow veggies, plant fruit trees or sub-divide. The rear has its own access from Barker Street. There is a20-foot shipping container for storage, solar system, single carport, gated access at the front, and the property is fully fenced offering peace of mind and security for children or pets.

Property: Twostreet frontages with planning permission forsub-division

Address: 32 BuckleyStreet Harcourt

Price: $745,000

Agent: Bendigo Property Plus

Contact: Di Selwood 54474088

KANGAROO FLAT 10 Eron Street

$350,000 -$380,000

Inspect: Saturday 6/5 at 12:00-12:30pm

Agent:

WesDorrington 0433 013 687

SOLID INVESTMENT OR FIRSTHOME

•Comfortable home on 601sqm block

•Open plan kitchen and meals area

•Enclosed secure backyard with 3x3m shed

•Quiet Kangaroo Flat location, minutes from schools, shopping and CBD

•The perfect starter home or investment, not too big and low maintenance

Inspect: Contact agent

Agent: Di Selwood 0488 148 358

BEAUTIFULLY CRAFTED STONE HOME IN PARK-LIKE SETTING

• Designed by the owners and crafted using locally sourced stone

• Internal stone and timber features, raked ceilings and picture windows

• Ducted heating, reverse cycle split system, ducted vacuum, spa bath, loads of storage

CAMPBELLS CREEK 19 Webbs Road $1,100,000

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

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

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

Birthday Club

Covering the Macedon Ranges and Mount Alexander Shires

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

ELLIOTT MIDLAND

Chamber music in Castlemaine

Local music lovers are invited to attend the second instalment of the 'Castlemaine Chamber Music Series' featuring Elyane Lassuade and Friends to be held in the Anglican Church on Agitation Hill on Sunday May 14.

This concert will feature the gorgeous American mezzo-soprano Kristen Leich and pianist Elyane Laussade. Kristen has amazing vocal skills and captivating musicianship.

The program is acompellingone, with asampling of popular repertoire from some of the earlier masters Purcell, Mozart, Schubert, and Schumann.

The program also includes asetting of Verlaine's evocative poetry in Cinq Melodies by Faure, followed by ashort piano transcription by Percy Grainger of Faure's Apres un Reve played by Elyane Laussade.

The program concludes with songs by William Bolcom, and Kristen will delight the audience with her dexterity in Rossini's amazing Una voce poco fa

The concert will begin at 3pm. Tickets $40 and $35 concession.

Book tickets at Trybooking ‘Castlemaine Chamber Music Series’ or tickets will be available at the door.

Compost is ‘blackgold’

Like coal, akey driver of the industrial revolution in England that became known as ‘black gold’, the contemporary equivalent could well be humble compost, akey ingredient of backyard vegetable growing and adriver of the sustainable, organic food production revolution.

However, unlike the back breaking, dangerous and relentless labour of the coal pit, compost is easy to produce, safe and doesn’t require expensive infrastructure. Used wooden pallets, plastic bins, galvanised iron –all recycled, can be used in the backyard, taking up little space and producing year-round natural plant food.

Pipers Creek Landcare is holding aComposting Workshop on Saturday May 13 at 2pm at 55 Murphy’s Road, Kyneton (just off the Pipers Creek Road) following their Annual General Meeting. It’s also agreat opportunity to meet the committee along with new neighbours in the area and see what landcare can do for you.

RSVP is requested by May 5– piperscreeklandcare@gmail.com 0431 908 239.

Landcare also has vast array of newly published material on flora and fauna, diversity and sustainability, bird identification and gorse control measures.

(left) Fresh kitchen waste on week one.(right) ‘Blackgold’ compost –week 20.

American mezzo-soprano Kristen Leichwillvisit Castlemaine forthe May14event.

Classified DEADLINES

DICKINS John Charles William

Passed away peacefully on 22nd April 2023.

Husband to Gwenda, Lovedfather to Arlo, Kerrin and Kim, and father-in-lawto Kate and Yvonne.

LovedPatoAllira, Carissa, Amy, Holly and Dayna.

KN271472/L

THORPE Maria Grace

26.06.1939 -24.04.2023

Vehicle Advertisers

From July 1, 2019, it will be an offence to advertise a dog or cat

Belovedwifeof Vernon (dec). Mother of Paul, Mark, Maryand mother in lawto Susan, Mel and Ben. Grandmother to Tayla, Alex, Jaara, Myaand Max.

Youwill be remembered as a caring nurse greenthumb,great cook and best Mum. Your love lives on in all of us

KN271459/L

SINATRA

James (Jim)

Acelebrated landscape architect who helped transform our hospital gardens into spaces of tranquillity and contemplation forour patients,visitors, carers and staff, initially in 2015 and again last year

Ourdeepest sympathy to Jim’s wife, Curtis, and sons Mark and Jonathan andtheir families

KN271425/L

Funerals

THORPE

AService to Celebrate the Lifeo Maria ‘Grace’ Thorpe will be held at Thomas J. Scott Memorial Chapel, 5Piper St, Kyneton.

On ThursdayMay 2023 at 10.30am. ABurial at the Kyneton Lawn Cemeterywill fo

KN271458/L

the first advertisement

GOODWIN - Joan

Joan Goodwin, long termresident of Wangaratta passed away peacefully at the RayM Begg Nursing Home Kyneton on 21st April.

BelovedwifeofAllen (deceased) and loving daughter Leagh. Fly free little Sparrow.

Joan’sfuneral service will be held in the Mason ParkChapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on ThursdayMay 4, 2023 commencing at 1.30pm. Burial will follow at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery.

KN271325/J

SIMMONDS

John Charles 2/5/2021

Death leavesa heartache no one can heal Memories are treasures no one can steal Some mayforget you nowyou are gone butwewill remember no matter howlong. Youwillalwaysstay lovedand remembered in everyway Deeply missed Lisa, Duncan, Mackenzie +Digby Simmonds

KN271473/L

TAXACCOUNTANT

An amazing opportunity exists to join adynamic team as an accountant, at awell established tax and consulting firmlocated in Romsey. The position is officebased and available for immediate start.

•Workasacontractor with negotiable terms and viewtoapermanent role

•Accountant or Assistant with experience of at least 3years

•ITsavvy and autonomous

•Experience in all facets ofaccountingand tax preparation.

•Computer skills including Microsoft Work, Excel&Office 365are anecessity

•Accounting software experience with QuickBooks and Reckonpreferable

Apply by submitting youresume to email@backtobusiness.net.au

IMPORTANT NOTICE DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL!

Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it nadvertiser to showany intention to on the basis of sex, pregnancy,race, status,political or religious belief or ndustrial activity,parental or carer status, atures,disability,lawful sexual activity/ ientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of associated with aperson with one of theabove characteristics,unless covered by an exception or granted an exemption under the Act. As we could be legally liable if we print an unlawful advertisement, we will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. Formore information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.

KN265461

Employment

MidlandExpress Kyneton5422 1488 Castlemaine 5472 1788

CLASSIFIEDS

5422 1488

KN271476/L

Castlemaine IGA Plus Liquor Vacancy available for Liquor Shop Manager (experience preferred) 38 hrs per week. Resumetobe emailed to hkshunkang@ hotmail.com

Kyneton IGA Plus Liquor Employment opportunities forthe following Store Manager Deli Manager Full and Part Time positions available Experience request. Resume to be emailed to kynetoniga@ hotmail.com

TRUCK &DOG drivers and PLANT OPERATORS required. Based at Trentham, Victoria. Various full-time, part-time and casual roles available Rates above award and negotiable Must have experience Email your resume to office@griffithsgroup.com or call (03) 5424 1433 or 0437900995 (Sharon)

Saying goodbye is always difficult...

Let us supportyou with respect, care and dignity.

5470 5951 www.mafunerals.com.au

12 Campbell Street, Castlemaine

Kyneton 3Market St., 5472 1788

Castlemaine

13 HargravesSt., Email: classifieds@ midnews.com.au

The following opportunities now exist for enthusiastic, safety focused people with suitable experience and qualifications

Please visit our website to find out more about current positions available across Mawsons business divisions

Beechworth – Concrete Truck Driver – BEEC002

Broken Hill – Concrete Truck Driver – BROK002

Regional Victoria – Drill & Blast Supervisor – QUAA002

Regional Victoria – Blast Hole Driller – QUAA003

Benalla – Concrete Batcher/Agitator Driver – BENA001

Kyneton – Concrete Truck Driver – KYNE003

A personal tribute difficult to find the words contact our friendly staff

DEMOLITION

NOTICE

Section29ofthe

andservices.

ELLIOTT MIDLAND

advises all display service advertisements must comply with the above requirement to avoid prosecution, or provide those details to us to pass to the Dept. of Justice if requested.

Picture perfect!

Abirthday, gorgeous sunshine and awin, the best way to spend aSunday afternoon.

This week Gisborne Soccer Club's girls welcomed Calder United to Gisborne, the weather was perfect and the girls pumped, they had come to play!

Keeping the ball wide, switching, finding the channels and all contributing to the goals scored, brought amassive smile to coach’s face but it was avery cheeky play, devised by the girls off afreekick, resulting in amagnificent goal that brought the wonderful cheer squad (AKA parents) to their feet. The win secured the song sung and then cake to celebrate Ava’s birthday.

Rangersshowspirit

This week saw the Rangers spread far and wide. The Boys U9s travelled to Caroline Springs to lock horns with City Vista.

Great teamwork and acompetitive spirit saw Hudson, Finn, Jack and Henry on multiple breakaways coming very close to scoring. Despite the boys' best efforts, City Vista proved too good on the day.

The Girls U10s hosted Barnestoneworth and with afull squad the girls battled hard all game. Elsie hit the back of the net to score and Mila standing tall as the goalkeeper kept the Rangers in it until the final minutes with Barnestoneworth just edging our girls 1-2.

The Girls U12 headed to Maribyrnong and showed the epitome of teamwork with special mentions to Indi whomarshalled the defense like ageneral and Chloe who covered just about every blade of grass! The Swifts proved too strong on the day just shading our girls, but the smiles on the girls faces tell it all.

The Boys U12s headed to Sunshine for the final match of the day competing against the might of Brimbank Stallions. Our boys put in agood showing all day, with goals coming from Alex and Trentyn. The boys ran hard against some bigger opponents and competed all game, with Brimbank proving too strong on the day.

Kyneton claims two!

Teams from the Kyneton Croquet Club have won two of the three divisions in the NDCA Autumn Pennant and came very close to taking all three divisions.

In the final round of Division Three, the top-of-the-table clash between Kyneton Yellow and Macedon Mt Towrong, saw Kyneton prevail four games to two. Patrick Fahy won both his singles games against Elizabeth Payne and Olwyn Snape while Judy Aldred beat Snape before losing to Payne. The two doubles games were shared. In the other match between two Macedon teams, the Mt Charlie pair of Liz Harnden and Lyn Robinson got home over Susan Butcher and Sue Wild of Mt Robertson.

In Division Two, the two Kyneton teams had to play apostponed round five match and awin for Kyneton Red would have seen all four teams in the division with achance of taking the title, but it wasn't to be. Kyneton Black's Graham Smith won both his singles games over Bill Caddaye and Darryl Chivers and George Lund beat Caddaye after losing to Chivers. When Kyneton Red won the first doubles by abig margin there was achance of them taking the match with abetter hoop score. Kyneton Black regrouped to take the second doubles and mean they were unbeatable in the title race. In the final round, the Kyneton Black pair consolidated their position with asolid five games to one win over the Maldon pair of Theo Stockx and Gavan McCarthy. In the other match, Quarry Hill’s John Murdoch and Gayle Deary proved too good for Caddaye and Ruth Gallpen to finish in second position overall.

Division One had arather unfortunate conclusion to what was building to be an enthralling play-off for the championship. Going into round six, Kyneton Blue were leading the Quarry Hill Rosellas on matches won, but the two teams were equal on games won 15 –15. Kyneton needed to win just three games to secure the championship.

Unfortunately, with one member away and another injuring himself in an accident at home on the morning of play, Kyneton couldn’t put ateam together and were unable to get anew date meaning they had to forfeit giving the match and the title to Quarry Hill.

All up, avery successful Autumn Pennant season for the Kyneton Croquet Club, which continues to go from strength to strength. In other croquet news, Kyneton’s Damien Hadfield is enjoying much success in tournaments around the state, including recent wins in Geelong and Warrnambool.

While still well down the list of world rankings, Hadfield's results in the past 12 months has seen him have the second highest rise in rankings of all players world-wide.

Good results in the Australian Open this month should see him rise further in the rankings.

Pennantswitch

Yesterday, Dalhousie District Golf Association advised the 2023 pennant finals to be played this Sunday have been switched from Marysville to Euroa.

This move was made due to Marysville greens being cored last week.

Woodend has three teams in the finals, and hopes to emulate its success of last year.

Woodend is unbeaten in the top scratch division, and has astronger team than last year.

The club is hoping for alarge attendance of spectators wearing Woodend colours to urge their players on at the finals.

On road to recovery

Hard-working jockey Neil Farley is on aslow road to recovery. Farley, pictured winning on the Mick Sell-trained Magnum Bullet in November (Pat Scala/Racing Photos) sustained abimalleolar fracture when dislodged in the mounting yard at Wodonga in February. He required surgery and his leg was in acast and moonboot for weeks.

The 31-year-old Farley had ridden 33 winners for the season, including his first metropolitan winner when he won aboard the Sell trained Magnum Bullet at Flemington in December.

Sell recently returned Magnum Bullet to work, and is hoping that Farley can recovery soon and resume riding for the stable. Farley was scheduled to see aphysiotherapist this week.

CASTLEMAINE

Two A-graders had agood tussle for top honours in the stroke event on Saturday.

John Jefferies shot 77-6-71 to edge out Gavin Lang 79-8-71.

Laurie Harding topped B-grade with 72-16-72, from Leon Thomas 87-15-73, while Tony Olsson 92-20-72 finished one clear of Malcolm McKellar 97-24-73 in C-grade.

Nine holes: Mary Harris (31) 14, from Lynne Johnson (35) 13 and Keith Adams (17) 13.

KYNETON

The quarter-finals of the RSL singles knockout were played on Saturday, with Jesper Hansen eliminating Terry Gamble on the 19th in the closest contest.

Barry Murphy dBarry Keane 3/2, Jason McClure dPaul Moore 4/3, and Noel Alldis dDavid Pilcher 6/5.

In the day’s stableford Rob Waters (21) scorched around to compile 40 points with Peter Cameron (15) next best on 36.

NTPs were Barry Murphy (2), Rob Waters, Nick Williamson, Rob Waters, Robyn MacRae, and Matt Waters (also super pin).

In the two-person Ambrose on Anzac Day. Scott Murphy (7) and Tom May (6) were the winners on athree way countback from Terry Gamble –Malcolm McKellar and Ross Foreman –Damian Summers all on 61.75. May and Denise Murphy were the NTPs.

Wednesday men’s stableford went to Gordon Stevens (20) with 37 points on acountback from John Chandler (20), while the ladies winner was Denise Murphy (14) with 38 points by one from Julie McKellar (36). NTPs were Tracey Bramich and David Scandrett.

LANCEFIELD

New member Stephen Morgan stole the limelight with two wins last week, on Anzac Day and Saturday.

The handicapper will surely be looking hard as Morgan had no trouble in bettering his 36 handicap on both occasions.

Legends: Stephen Morgan 38 stableford points, on acountback from Ed Godek (17), with Wayne Mee (20) third on 37.

Saturday stableford: Morgan 40 points, from Alaistair Beard (30) on 38.

The latter showed off in front of his two visitors, one who took out the big $s on the money hole (11th). This concept is growing in popularity with most entering.

Trevor Lambert (2) filled third place.

Wednesday ladies: Florence Meyer 31 points, from Sheena Flentjar 30. Nine holes –DiRohde 15 points, from Anne Robinson 14.

MOUNT MACEDON

The April monthly medal event on Saturday went to A-grader Darcy Doyle with an impressive 69-6-63.

The B-grade winner once again was Stuart Gunnell with 83-1568, and C-grade went to Stephen Hohmann with 94-26-68.

Wednesday’s three-person Ambrose on asuperb course was won by the trio of Mike Hoiles (11), Peter Hoiles (25) and Romsey’s Stephen Wilkins (14) with agross 67 and nett 58 2/3.

Good news on Sunday: Mount Macedon cemented its place in the DDGA scratch pennant final against Trentham next Sunday. We wish them well.

ROMSEY

There was some excellent golf and aclose finish in the monthly medal event on Saturday, with several players scoring under their handicaps.

Clive Mensworth took advantage of his long handicap to win the medal with 110-41-70, from Scott Williams 87-17-70 and Mal Mottram 80-9-71.

Williams had the least putts (25) and Mick Squire was NTP.

Kath Jakabsons continued her great form with 109-37-72 to win Wednesday’s event and be in the running for the April medal.

Rob Slade and Elaine Scanlon filled the minor placings, and Lorraine Robb had the lest putts (31, with Rob Slade NTP.

Last week Romsey ladies excelled with a5-0 pennant victory over Seymour.

In the fourth round of men’s pennant Romsey’s scratch team defeated Strathbogie 4-1, and the handicap side accounted for Lancefield 3-2.

TRENTHAM

Afield of 77 enjoyed the cool conditions in Saturday’s stableford.

The best tally came from B-grader Peter McBride (17) with 42 points.

There was athree-way tie on 37 points in A-grade before the countback gave Jason King (12) victory over Simon Ovenden and Colin Wilson.

Kym McLean (21) topped C-grade with 39, two clear of promising junior Finbar Walsh.

The ladies played in the second round of the Jim McCormack Trophy.

Mandy Bestwick took out A-grade with 35 points, on a countback from Sue Byrne, with Judy Jolly best in C-grade with 32.

WOODEND

Another fine autumn day for golf on Saturday saw plenty of good scores in Saturday’s stableford event.

Bruce Kent (31) was the overall and B-grade winner with 39 points, and A-grade winner Terry Longton (13) had the same tally.

Jarrad Kilty (11) and Toby Barker (17) both returned 38.

Anzac Day saw Dennis Barker (14) in sparkling form with 40 points.

Runner-up was Ryley Berry (21) on 38.

Plenty of anticipation about the Dalhousie District pennant finals coming up on Sunday.

Good luck to the participating Woodend teams.

Coachofthe Year

Last Saturday saw the Bendigo Amateur Soccer League celebrate the Female Football round with female soccer players of all ages from under eights to the seniors running out at the EpsomHuntly Recreation Reserve.

The Kyneton Rangers had a big day with eight female Kyneton teams taking the field over the course of the day.

The mother and daughter duo of Simone and Sian took to the field in the Women’s game, Simone also coaching her younger daughter Zara in the U16s. While in the U14s Christina coached her daughter Zali, with Lenka winning in the U10s with daughter Aroha and Kate looked after the U8s with daughter Kaddi. Undoubtedly,the highlight for Kyneton Rangers was the recognition of one of the club’s biggest contributors, on and off the pitch, the Under 12 girls’ coach, Bec Cole, who was awarded the Female Coach of the Year award. Bec has beeninstrumental in bringing the proportion of female players at Kyneton from 30 per cent to 50 per cent in recent years. She is aclub ambassador, the social media manager, and the development coach from junior to senior level. Bec has coached and mentored hundreds of girls over the years. During the day, Bec works as an early childhoodteacher in Bendigo and is a community leader.

It’s safe to say Bec has Kyneton Rangers blood running through her veins. Born andbred in Kyneton, Bec is the granddaughter of the founding members of the Kyneton Rangers and the youngest child of Anna-Marie and Ron Cole, who is the current club president. Over the past five years, Bec had coached various girls’ teams and workedtirelessly in developingour current female soccer stars. Bec is an amazing role model for all of the Rangers junior players.

“Bec is funny and warm and fair, the best coach ever,” said Under 12 player, Ami Kuyateh.

Kate Kuyateh, club secretary said Bec had worked tirelessly with the Miniroos and junior girls’ programs for anumber of years and is well-loved by all of the

young players she has helped develop into amazing footballers.

Ron Cole, club president and proud father said that aa father and coach,hewas immensely proud to see Bec grow and develop into the beautiful person she was.

“Bec is well-respected by the league and players alike, she embodies the values of our club in everything she does,” Ron said.

The women’s Rangers team, featuring Bec, had a 5-0 win over Epsom. Isha Kuyateh was named best on ground.”

Basketball is back

After ashort break, Kyneton Basketball Association is back for another exciting season. The Winter Domestic season is about to commence on the on May 8for the U10s and U12s, and on May 10 for the U14s. Training sessions commence on Thursday May 4at5pm for the U10s and U12s. Training for U14 is on May 2at5pm.

Registrations are still open for anyone interested.

Bendigo Domestic

The Bendigo Domestic saw the addition of anew team the U12 girls.

U12 Girls Div 5

Kyneton Tigers 36 def Beavers Saints 3

(Q Barnett 9, HZanussi, OBall 8)

U16 Boys Div 1

Strath Fire 62 def Kyneton Tigers 41

(C Eve 15)

VJBL Friday Nights

U12 Boys

Macedon Ranges 45 def Kyneton Tigers 32

(E Collins 18, BJeffrey, HLiebelt 8)

U14 Boys

Coburg 39 def Kyneton Tigers 33

(J Khouri 14, JBartlett 7)

U16 Boys

Geelong United 54 def Kyneton Tigers 50

(L Arsenijevic 13, MLiebelt, CEve 16)

U18 Boys

Kyneton Tigers 43 def Coburg 42

(T Vroom 12, BHuntington 22)

U18 Girls

Eltham 39 def Kyneton Tigers 30

(C Bandera 15, APowell, BConway 6)

U20 Boys

Kyneton Tigers 45 def Geelong United 25 (B Thompson, MBoyer 11, JBell 6)

Kyneton Academy Training (KAT Program)

The Kyneton Basketball Association is introducing a new Kyneton Academy Training or KAT program. This program is aimed at all ages, all skill levels, all individuals who want to learn more about the game of basketball and advance their skill set.

The KAT program is individual training in agroup setting, each athlete will go at their own pace, working within or just above their skill level to create ahabit of training above their comfort zone set to achieve higher skills. The KAT Program will run midweek mornings with three options available:

Tuesday only 7am to 8am –seven sessions –$75

May 9toJune 20

www.playhq.com/basketball-victoria/register/1fe963

Thursday only 7am to 8am –seven sessions –$75

May11toJune 22 www.playhq.com/basketball-victoria/register/be6d4a

Tuesday and Thursday 7am to 8am –14sessions –$140 ($10 discount for both days)

May 9toJune22

www.playhq.com/basketball-victoria/register/4b1284

All participants to bring their own ball (in correct size for athletes age) and drink bottle.

Any questions about the KAT program or for more information, contact Simon –0409 164 564 /gm@ kynetonbasketball.net.au. Term two ‘CUBS’ program is also back on Thursday May 4at4pm. Registration is still open for term 2‘CUBS’ program, www.playhq. com/basketball-victoria/register/735976

Bec Cole was named Female Coachofthe Year

Maldon, Harcourt, Newstead in wins

Maldon got their second win on the board in Maryborough Castlemaine District Football Netball League round three action last Saturday.

Fresh from the week's rest, the Dons produced adominant display against their Maryborough Rovers opponents in front of a home crowd at the Bill Woodfull Reserve.

Maldon smashed through five goals in the opening term, but the Rovers held their own kicking three. Maldon held a13-point lead at the first change.

Maldon peppered the goals in the second stanza adding another four goals to the Rovers one for the term and at half time the margin had blown out to 35 points.

The Dons continued to hold sway in the third kicking three goals to one and held a 47-point advantage at the final change.

The Rovers managed another goal in the final stanza but Maldon kicked another three to win the match by 60 points.

Rhys Ford was in fine form kicking 5, Cody Gunn 3, Jordon Collins 2, Oliver Leonard-Shannon 2, Brodie Leonard-Shannon, Patrick Long and Seb Greene 1.

Best were Brodie Leonard-Shannon, Joshua Pascoe, Oliver Leonard-Shannon, Matthew Gray, Billy Miller and Jordon Collins.

Harcourt continued on their winning way defeating Natte Bealiba at Natte Yallock.

The Lions opened their account with four goals, keeping the home side to just one for the term.

In the second quarter the 2022 premiers really hit their stride kicking another seven goals and holdingNatte totwo for the term.

At half time 50 points separated the sides.

Not tobeoutdone, Natte fought back in the third kicking an admirable seven goals to three to bridge the gap to an impressive 21 points at the final change.

However, the shellshocked Lions managed togather their composure, regain the ascendency and kick four goals to one in the final term to win by 38 points.

Cameron Anderson led the way with 4, Kalan Huntly and Jed Rodda 3, Paul Chaplin and Baxter Gurd2and Bronson Martin and Mark Noonan 1.

Best were Kalan Huntly, Mark Noonan,

Kaleb Mcbride, Brayden Frost, Darby Semmens and Cameron Anderson.

Newstead also recorded their second win of the year with a20-point victoryover Navarre.

Newstead smashed through four opening term goals to one to hold ahandy 19-point lead at the first break much to the delight of their home crowd.

The Grasshoppers found avenues to goal in the second term kicking three goals tothe Steaders' two but Newstead held a12-point lead at the long break.

The third termwas an even affair as Newstead kickedanother five and Navarre squeezed through another four goals, but the home side had extended their lead back to 19 points heading into the final quarter.

The arm wrestle continued in the final term with each side only managing agoal but in the end Newstead managed to hold on for an important win.

Tyler James was on fire for the Steaders kicking 5, James Mitchelhill 2, Oscar Lynzaat, Brendan McDougall and Mitch Hough 1.

Best were Jovian Goulton, James Mitchelhill, Tyler James, Alex Murphy, Cordie Mckendry and Harrison Harbrow.

Campbells Creek found the going tough against the in-form Trentham going down by 238 points.

Playing at home, the Trentham seniors defeated Campbells Creek 38.22 (246) to 1.2 (8).

Jake Keogh led the way for the Saints with 11 goals, Alister Ferrier kicked 6, and Sam Winnard 5.

Shining lights for Creek were Joel Wootton, Harley Melrose, Mitchell Stevens, Jyanni Pollard, Maximilian Stewart and Luke Bennett.

In other matches Lexton recorded a 10-point win overadetermined Avoca side, Carisbrook defeated Dunolly by70 points and Talbot had a105 point win over Royal Park.In round four action this weekend, Harcourt will host Maldon, Lexton versus Natte Bealiba, Avoca welcome Newstead, Dunolly take on Trentham, Campbells Creek host Talbot, Royal Park versus Navarre, and Maryborough Rovers welcome Carisbrook.

Bulldogs struggle to goal

After the firstquarter blitz, Gisborne matched the Hawks in general play, butthe deficit proved too large andtheywere outscored four goals to three in the final term

Abrilliant first term of precision football enabled Eaglehawk to take an iron grip on the big third round match at Gardiner Reserve on Saturday.

As reigning premiers, Gisborne is now the target for the strong Bendigo-based clubs, and the unbeaten Hawks showed they have definitely improved on last season’s showing.

Key forward Cam McGlashan finished with six goals for the visitors, who provided plenty of precision delivery into their forward line.

In contrast, Gisborne did not have aforward who looked likely to kick abag of goals.

Gisborne coach Brad Fox said the absence of injured midfielder Sam Graham was evident.

Friday races at Kyneton

The next race meeting conducted by Kyneton and Hanging Rock Racing Club takes place this Friday, May 5. An eight-race program is anticipated, with gates opening at 11am.

After the first quarter blitz, Gisborne matched the Hawks in general play, but the deficit proved too large and they were outscored four goals to three in the final term.

Captain Jack Reaper, midfielder Flynn Lakey and Liam Spear were among the Bulldogs’ best.

The final score was 17.10 to 9.9, and on the form shown Eaglehawk looms as astrong premiership contender.

The Bulldogs can bounce back and win well at Kangaroo Flat this weekend.

The Reserves match was awar of attrition, with just six goals score, and Eaglehawk scrambled home 3.10 to 3.7.

Gisborne Under 18s impressed with a14.17 to 7.3 victory.

In the senior women’s football, Gisborne struggled for much of the match, then kicked four last quarter goals to go down 6.5 to 5.6 against Doutta Stars, while the U18s thrashed Pascoe Vale 15.9 to 0.1.

CLEAN SWEEP

Gisborne netballers continued their impressive form across the board, winning all five matches.

Even at this early stages, there is optimism that Gisborne teams well be prominent come Bendigo League finals time. The A-graders defeated Eaglehawk 49-26, and other scores were 68-23 (A-Reserve), 56-21 (B-grade), 60-26 (B-Reserve) and 70-25 (17&Under)

The high-profile AFLW Prespakis sisters have aspecial affinity with Romsey, and they would have been very handy on the field as the Redbacks new women’s team debuted against astrongKyneton side on Friday night. Maddy (at right) began with Romsey Auskick as afour-year-old, and went on to play and shine in junior football with Romsey before going on to ahigher level to eventually star with Carlton before crossing to the new Essendon side. Younger sister Georgie has made aname for herself with Geelong in the AFLW. They are pictured with Michael 'Richo' Richardson alongtime junior level coach with the Redbacks.

Mixed results for Magpies

The Castlemaine Magpie Women's side kicked off the weekend with their second win of the season in round two of the AFL Central Victoria Women's competition under lights at the Camp Reserve on Friday evening.

The Eaglehawk Women started well and held aslender one point lead over the Magpies at quarter time.

But Castlemaine lifted in the second term kicking avital goal and holding the Hawks to just three points to lead by one straight kick at half time.

Castlemaine went on with the job in the second half kicking another five goals whilst holding the Hawks' to just one major and eventually won the match by 33 points.

Goal kickers for Castlemaine were Jo Allan 2, Charlotte Beavan 2, Ella Cochrane, Ainsley Taft and Tiffany Bradley.

Best were Aisling Tupper, Charlotte Beavan, Abbey Bertram, Rachel Thomas, Eillish Cumming and Jemma Finning.

Castlemaine Football Netball Club played host to Strathfieldsaye Storm in round three action at the Camp Reserve on Saturday.

It was aspecial day for the Magpies with club stalwart John Watson playing his 150th game for the club.

Castlemaine started strongly kicking two goals in the opening term, but Storm also hit the ground running and kicked five majors to hold a21point lead at the first break.

The Magpies registered another goal in the second quarter but Strath asserted their authority up forward and kicked another four goals to extend their lead. Many opportunities went begging though with the Magpies applying plenty of pressure and Storm also kicking 11 points for the quarter.

Despite this at half time the visitors held a50point buffer.

The third term was atight battle as Strath strove to break the shackles and extend their lead.

Castlemaine only managed four points for the quarter but also held their opponents to just 3.6 at the other end of the ground.

The Magpies found another goal in the final stanza but Storm had all the answers kicking another 5.3 to record a97point win.

Goal kickers for the Magpies were Ashton Franklin, John Watson, Callum McConachy and Jackson Hood.

Best for the Magpies were 150 gamer John Watson, Brodie Byrne, Liam Wilkinson, Callum McConachy, Riley Pedetti and Ethan Hein.

The Magpie Reserves had a challenging day on the park going down to Storm by 193 points.

Best for Castlemaine were Jordan Cochrane, Kaine Fleeton, Caleb Kuhle, Alex Staples, Glenn McMillan and Laine Gibson.

The Under 18s fought back valiantly after Strath got the jump on their early but went down by 76 points at the final siren.

Best for the Magpies were Ben McConachy, Dallas Keogh-Frankling, Xavier Noy, Curtis McLennan, Kyan Martin and Archie Rixon.

On the netball court the Magpies AGrade side had agreat win over Strathfieldsaye 51-34. Best on court was Jane O'Donohue. A Reserve 45 also defeated Strath 35. Best on Court was Brianna Pedretti. BGrade lost 37-54 despite a top effort. Best was Shae Denahy. BReserve went down 14-49. Best was Sheryl Rose and 17 &Under narrowly lost 42-45. Best on Court was Charli Henderson.

This Friday evening May 5the Magpie Women will again play under lights at the Camp Reserve against Strathfieldsaye Storm from 7.15pm, and on Saturday the Castlemaine Football Netball Club sides will make the trek to Canterbury Park to take on Eaglehawk.

Tigers stun

Kyneton face battle

Successive defeats at the hands of Golden Square, Sandhurst and now South Bendigo have left Kyneton facing an uphill battle to become finals contenders this season.

Yet there is light at the end of the tunnel following the 14.8 to 5.16 defeat at the Harry Trott Reserve on Saturday.

The Tigers were slow out of the blocks, and this eventually told against strong opposition.

South Bendigo had ahealthy lead at half time, but the Tigers showed resolute improvement in the third term as they began to play the ‘Tiger Way’.

It was all to no avail, and coach Paul Chapman feels positive ball use is something for players to work on this week to ensure they gain their first win of the season –against bottom side Maryborough at the Kyneton Showgrounds.

Kyneton women’s football team, pictured under lights on Friday night at Romsey Park, put on astunning performance.

They opened the new Riddell League senior women’s season with an emphatic victory.

Under third year head coach Phil Hawkes, bolstered by 150 VFLW gamer Belinda Hateey and Kylie Munro stepping in as assistants, the girls have had a strong pre-season.

Their domination was reflected in the 19.14 (128) to 0.1 (1) score line.

As expected three times best and fairest Teagan Ainslie featured in the ‘best’ list, and second year player Alex Strawhorn added depth to the Tigers already talented midfield.

It was an excellent move sending usual key defender Taylah Moore forward, as she ended up bagging 10 goals.

The Tigers now play Woodend-Hesket at the Kyneton Showgrounds this Saturday, with veteran Shannon White to play her 100th match for the club.

Let’s make it amemorable night.

There’s evidence the Tigers have the ability and manpower to chalk up afew good wins, and supporters should stay loyal.

Among the better players against South Bendigo were Jake Summers, Harrison Huntley, Mason Crozier, Bailey McGee, Caleb Fisher and Jayden Eales.

RESERVES, U18s SHINE

Kyneton Reserves and Under 18s chalked up their first wins for the season, and there was plenty to like about their efforts.

“Fantastic” was aone word summing up

on both results

The U18s displayed tremendous intensity and coach Ethan Foreman was particularly impressed with their efforts when they did not have possession.

Certainly strong signs this team is only going to improve in 2023.

Those to impress in the 10.16 to 4.4 victory included Gabriel Yow Yeh, Dempsey Robertsm Sam Quinn, Cutis Bone, Brady Muir and Cody Young.

Ryan Pretty’s Reserves produced some great team football and widespread skills across the field.

They really earned their 12.12 to 8.8 victory. Some crowd favourites ,including veteran Luke Beattie, provided highlights in an overall team effort.

Best players were Lachlan Crean-Kyriazis, Darcy Harris, Beattie, Jack Pilbean and coach Pretty.

NETBALL ROUND-UP

The A-grade netball match between South Bendigo and Kyneton was aquality physical contest, with the home side jumping to an early lead.

Kyneton actually finished ahead in the other three quarters, but the early deficit proved too great.

South Bendigo won 48-44 ,and the home side also proved too strong for the Tigers in the other four encounters.

Scores: A-Reserve 44-33; B-grade 4940, BReserve 62-17, 17&Under 41-20.

Magpie John Watson playedhis 150th game forthe club on Saturday. Photo: Max Lesser

Fiona Fowler is pictured in action forthe Magpies. Photo: Max Lesser

Jedwab starsfor Romsey

Livewire forward Jack Jedwab kicked seven goals for Romsey on Saturday to get the Redbacks back on the winning list in Riddell League football.

Romsey travelled to play Melton Centrals in the third round match, out to make amends for anarrowlossto Wallan. It ended up as a13.9(87)to9.4 (58) victory, and further improvement may well be needed for the Redbacks to keep aconfident Riddell at bay this Saturday.

Jedwab, Nathan Blair and Nathan Rayment were among the best players for the Redbacks.

Only two other games took place on Saturday.

Coming off agood performance against WoodendHesket, Lancefield kicked six goals straight in the first half to trail by just 12 points against Diggers Rest.

Embarrassed by their first half, the home side lifted the

Most courageous

On Anzac Day at Macedon, medals were awarded to the players judged ‘Most Courageous’ in the senior netball and football matches

Pictured are the winners of the respective McDougall and Grumont Medals, Macedon defender Katie Clarke and Diggers Rest utility player Jaidyn Caruna, a former Bowen Medal winner with Romsey Clarke’s statistical wrap in the winning A-grade team was 12 intercepts, 15 deflections, 8 gains, 4 rebounds and one accidental goal for the opposition!

intensity level considerably and kept the Tigers to just four points in the second half.

Recruit Jacob Hickey kicked five goals for the winners, and the Tigers were best served by defender Lukas Fellows, Lachlan Giles, Riley O’Meara, Lachlan Mitchell and Alex Simpson.

Wallan 24.24 defeated Western Rams in the remaining match on Saturday, with Michael Bachael Baccari best afield with six goals as well.

On Anzac Day at Tony Clarke Reserve, Macedon stuck with Diggers Rest for three quarters, before the visitors secured a13.11 (89) to 8.8 (56) victory.

The Cats lost big man Jack Kernan with apainful arm injury three minutes into the match, and Brad Cooke was stretched off with aknee injury late in the match.

Reserves: Romsey 8.4 dMelton Centrals 5.11, Diggers Rest 24.21 dLancefield 0.0, Wallan 19.19 dWestern Rams 1.3.

Under 19.5: Romsey 17.12 dMelton Centrals 6.5, Macedon dLancefield on forfeit.

NETBALL

SCORES

Macedon won all four netball matches played against Diggers Rest on Anzac Day.

Head coach Ciara Stewart is particularly pleased with how sides are travelling at this early stage of the season. Scores on Saturday were:

A: Diggers Rest 50 dLancefield 28, Wallan 43 dWestern Rams 31, Melton Centrals 54 dRomsey 50.

B: Melton Centrals 42 dRomsey 41, Diggers Rest 54 d Lancefield 23,Western Rams 39 dWallan38.

RDFNL games

The fourth round of Riddell District Football Netball League matches takes place this Saturday.

The blockbuster football match of the round is between long standing rivals rivals Romsey and Riddell.

Other matches are:

Macedon vWallan.

Lancefield vMeltonCentrals.

Western Rams vWoodend-Hesket. Diggers Rest has the bye.

BFNL games

Kyneton senior footballers expect to open their winning account for 2023 when they play bottom side Maryborough on Saturday.

The match is at the Kyneton Showgrounds as part of the Bendigo League’s fourth round fixtures.

In the first three matches Kyneton has collectively managed just 13 goals –the Tigers will be out to win and better that number on Saturday.

Gisborne can bounce back from the heavy defeat at the hands of undefeated Eaglehawk by wining at Kangaroo Flat.

Castlemaine face another tough outing at Eaglehawk, while Strathfieldsaye vSandhurst should draw abig crowd, Golden Square is at home to South Bendigo in the remaining match.

out of the blocks

Fast

On Anzac Day at Macedon’s Tony Clarke Reserve, one of the features was four 120-metre sprints, carrying substantial prizemoney.

They were run in memory of Victoria Cross winner, Cameron Baird, who was a gallant Australian Commando leader who lost his life in Afghanistan. Baird was also an Australian Rules footballer who played with Calder Cannons as ateenager.

The fastest runners are pictured with Nick Lynch, along-time Macedon Football Netball Club committee man and ex-serviceman who presented the fastest runners with their winnings. He also thanked the very generous sprint sponsors.

The winners were (from left) junior boys –Hunter Hanson (Sunbury Lions), seniors –Max Richards (Gisborne Giants), women –Ashlee Coxhell (Macedon) and junior girls –Eliza Patterson-Lade (Macedon).

Coxhell won the $1000 sprint for the second year in arow, having come almost straight from playing on the netball court.

Averyimpressive ANZAC Day ceremony was held on the oval before the main match between Macedon and Diggers Rest, with team leaders laying wreaths at the flag pole.

As in past years, the Commando Welfare Trust raises funds on this day.

DAYGAME

Seniors

2.35.5

GOALS: JGough 2, CKendall,D Phyland,ZBaggs,W

Mackay,SIndian ,JBarham BEST: ZBaggs,CKendall,J Gough, HGovan, NBridgland,ZSmedley

GOALS: Lancefield: JRadford2 CRandall RO’MearaM

Conlan ASimpson BEST: Lancefield: LFellows LGiles R O’MearaMConlan LMitchell ASimpson

GOALS: Romsey:JJedwab 7, NBlair 2, DLockens 2, DWalsh, JDeHaas BEST: Romsey:J Jedwab,N Blair,NRayment, D

CPertzel Reserves

Macedon: NO’Connell,C Walker,JReeves, MRamsay,NScholes BEST: MacedonL Thomas,R Hickingbotham, JReeves,JMuir,EMorrissey,NO’Connell

GOALS: Lancefield: N/A BEST: Lancefield: Elliott Cowley James Hobson Andrew Richardt Michael Braszell Elliot

MELTON1.1 5.6

5.11 (41)

GOALS: Romsey:MRichardson 2, DKilkenny, BGoodwin, L Chew,LMitchell,J Thorsen, CDay BEST: Romsey:B Xiriha, J Thorsen, JMartin, LMitchell,DKilkenny, LSpiteri

Under 19.5s

ANZAC DAYGAME ROMSEY 1.5 1.8 4.9 5.11 (41)

MACEDON 1.1 2.4 3.9 4.9 (39)

GOALS: Romsey:MMilburn, C. Jedwab,S.Menner, D. Lockens,C.Sankey Madecon: F. Light, L. Hay, A. McGregor

B. Bauer BEST: Romsey:C.Sankey ,D.Lockens,L.Muir,A Tennant, D. Kenyon, C. Beer Macedon: A. McGregor,L.Hay,a lynch, C. Ozanne,e.ferguson, O. Coppin

ROMSEY 4.26.6 11.9 17.12 (114)

MELTON2.0

Seniors

Kyneton: JPlowman 3B Ganim DYarwood JPilbeam TAgnew LBeattie

2O Merlo2JMuller WGovier BEST: Maldon:Z Turner

Creek: MWilliams2 BEST: Trentham: HSundblomJGrayDReid A

JSammut MSmith.Campbells Creek:JCallaghan B

CMorgan RTingayRJohnstone JCarroll

Harcourt: HBrereton2MMcMurtrie 2CKabalan 2K

BEST: Harcourt: MMaerzHBreretonO

(0) GOALS: Trentham: Details N/A. Campbells Creek:Details

BEST: Trentham: HLeong Lstringer WHopper HWhite BHolden JReid.Campbells Creek:EMountfordRRoberts C

MAnderson JAnderson RWestern

Tigers, Hawks supreme

Bill West

The inaugural women’s football competition in the Riddell League has been completed, with Kyneton turning in apowerhouse performance under lights at Romsey on Friday night.

Tall forward Taylah Moore showed plenty of class and kicked 10 goals for the Tigers. Moore looks a‘cert’ to win the goalkicking award on this performance. Woodend-Hesket was thrilled to win on debut by 50 points against Mt Alexander Falcons in amatch played at Harcourt on Saturday.

Earlier in the afternoon, Melton carried too much ability and worked hard to defeat Macedon by 99 points at Tony Clarke Reserve.

Asenior women’s football competition opens up new ground for the Riddell League, and the “fun” aspect was apparent from coaches trying to instruct new players to the sport.

Kyneton coach Phil Hawkes was entitled to be very pleased with the enthusiasm, ability and teamwork shown by the Tigers at Romsey, even allowing for the Redbacks having 14 total newcomers to the sport in their line-up.

In recent seasons Kyneton has played in the Central Victoria Football League, and last season was set to play finals before acontentious ruling over ineligible players in other matches and reallocation of points left the Tigers lamenting.

On Friday night, some spectators were still talking about what many felt was an injustice, and there is now anew opportunity ahead.

Romsey players tried hard in what was adefinite learning experience, and coach Aaron Paterson was pleased his players managed to keep Kyneton to afew

points for the first 16 minutes of the third term.

The final score was 19.24 to 0.1.

Alex Strawhorn, Tegan Ainslie, Tegan Moore, Belinda Hateley, Elizabeth Hately, Ellish Whitten and Heidi Erasmas. Flegg and Amy Brady were named as the Tigers’ best.

Those to do well for the Redbacks included were Johanna Langelaan, Sarah Galea, Hayley Fisher, Elizabeth Worthington, Ellish Fleegg and Amy Brady.

The Macedon Cats, with Jeremy Miles as coach and Tamara Collins captain, did not lack endeavour against aMeltonsidefielding plenty of players with football experience. For the majority of the game the ball was well away from where the Cats could have had scoring chances; some of the defending was effective as the visitors sprayed some kicks wildly.

Macedon has at least five players to add to the lineup, and can only improve on the 14.15 to 0.0 outcome.

Coach Colin Bromley, who was in charge of Woodend-Heskets underage girls premiership side last season, started off the senior comp. With a5.21 to 0.1 victory over the Falcons.

The Hawks seized control in the second term and had 4.10 on the board, but the opposition defended resolutely in the second half when only one goal was scored.

The Hawks were happy to return home and celebrate after the 5.21 to 0.1 victory.

SECOND ROUND

Second round women’s matches this week are:

Friday night: Melton vRomsey at 7pm (MacPherson Park No. 2oval).

Saturday: Macedon vMtAlexander Falcons at 5pm (Tony Clarke Reserve), and Kyneton vWoodend at 5.3opm (Kyneton Showgrounds).

Woodend-Hesket was thrilled to win on debut by 50 points against Mt Alexander Falcons in amatch playedatHarcourtonSaturday.

Photo: Max Lesser

Sound advice: Senior Macedon football coach Al Meldrum was on hand to provide some quartertime encouragement, with Tina Veliseck and captain Tamara Collins among the attentive Cats.

View Sunday 7th of May 11:00am -1:00pm

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