Midland Express Tuesday 31 March 2026

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Tuesday, March 31, 2026

Claim on McCubbin’s home

Angela Crawford

An adversepossession claimhas been lodged over'Fontainebleau',the former summerresidenceofprominentAustralianartist Frederick McCubbin, locatedonMountMacedon.

Long-timecaretaker Trevor Hoarehas applied fortitle to the property at 15 Glover Road, aftercaring forthe estate forabout 18 years.

Adversepossession, sometimes called 'squatter’srights',isa legal mechanism wherebya person who does notholdlegal title to a property can acquireownership if theyoccupyitcontinuously and openly without the permission of the legalowner

Theapplication has been challenged by the owners, and the matter is scheduled to be heardinthe Supreme Court of Victoria on Thursday.

Mr Hoare'sclaim followsa changeinmanagementbythe property’sowners, who appointed Melina Goddardaspropertymanager in October last year

Ms Goddard, who is also generalmanagerofDuneiraEstate for the S.R. Stoneman Foundation, said the ownersintended to restore the historic residenceand establish asmall, sustainable artists-inresidenceprogram to improve communityaccess.

“The house is in aterrible condition,”she said. “Theaim is to repair it and restoreitback to its original condition so thatit’ssafe foruse again.”

Thepropertyisowned by agroup of five people and is currently subject to arectification order from HeritageVictoriadue to its deteriorated state. HeritageVictoriaand the local council have both inspected the site, and acondition report will be required as part of the restoration process.

According to HeritageVictoria, Fontainebleau wasoriginally built in the late 19thcentury,likely in Melbourne, before being relocated to MountMacedon. McCubbin purchased the property in 1901 as afamily home, naming it afterthe Forest of Fontainebleau in France.

Theartist, akey figureinthe HeidelbergSchool, used the surrounding bushland as inspiration fora number of works, including ThePioneer (1904).Although thefamily returned to Melbourne in 1907, McCubbin continued to visit the property on weekends and holidays

Thelandiszoned RuralConservationZone.

‘Fontainebleau’ wasthe summer residence of prominentAustralian artist Frederick McCubbin on MountMacedon.

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Fuel theftconcern grows

Policeare investigating a spate of fuel thefts in Kyneton, with multiple vehicles targeted across residential streets earlier this month.

Authorities allegeunknown offenderstampered with fuel cap covers on cars parked along Wedgeand Powlett streetsbetween 5pm on FridayMarch 20, and 8am on SaturdayMarch 21.

Theincidents come amid rising fuel prices, with police noting broader pressures linked to ongoing conflict in theMiddle East. Investigators areexamining whether the thefts form part of awider trend, including an increase in offences such as stolen licenceplatesused in petrol drive-offs.

Policehaveurged servicestation operatorsand thepublic to remain vigilant, as concerns grow overa potential uptickinfuelrelatedtheft across the region.

FREE PUBLIC TRANSPORT

From today, the stategovernmenthas made publictransport free to help ease the impact of the fuel crisis.

Forthe entiremonth of April. the state's train, tram and bus network will offerfreetravel.

Thegovernmenthas also added thousands of extraservices to handle the expected surge in demand.

"This is atemporary measure to help with the cost of living; it will takepressureoff the pump and help yousave,"Premier Jacinta Allan said.

Petrol wasnearing $2.60

Council news

Graffitidamagedisappoints

A32-year-old man from Riddells Creekhas been arrested and chargedinconnection to graffiti damageatbothRomseyand Lancefield skate parks.

Theskate park at Romsey had only just officially opened to the community earlier this month afteryearsofcampaigning.

Keymoversofthe Romsey SkatePark, Lancefield Romsey Lions Club expressed their disappointmentonsocial media last week.

"Toour community: It's disheartening to seethata single individual could compromise your integrity," theysaid.

"Weencouragecommunity memberstokeep watch and report anydetrimental activities. Ourproactive surveillanceallowedlaw enforcementtointervene swiftly.Immediate reportingofmisconductiscrucial. We arecommitted to preserving the park'sbeauty forthe community."

Policehavereleased images of the graffitiand ask people to contactpoliceiftheyrecognise the tagorknowabout other locations thatthis offender mayhavedamaged. Contactany policestation or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via: crimestoppersvic.com.au

We know thatmanyparents and carers have ahardtime finding

To help respond to this challengeand others, we’retaking a close look at whatchildcareoptions areavailable now, what families need and whatcould be possible in the

Tell us about your experiences –What’sworking? What needs improving? Howcan Council support you?

Parents, carers and serviceproviders of children aged 0-5 areinvited to apop-up session to ask questions and leave feedback in person:

When: Sunday5 April, 11.00am to 3.00pm Where: Bill Woodfull Reserve, Maldon

An online survey is also available at shape.mountalexander.vic.gov.au.

‘Come on mate,fair’sfair’ Lancefield park criespoor, should council step in?

What would it cost forMacedon Ranges ShireCouncil to manageLancefield Recreation Reserve? Thecouncil is about to find out.

TheLancefield assetisthe only one of its kind in the shirethatisunder acommittee of managementand runbyvolunteerson Crownland.

Volunteershavevoiced concern about the park'songoing managementand maintenancewithlittle funding stretched thin.

Last week, Cr Daniel Young requested a report outlining aframework and process for council to assume theongoing management of the Lancefield Park Precinct

"This motion is about doing some groundwork thatmightaddress an issue thatIthink will come up in the future," he said

Cr Young said therehad been "anincreasing levelofconversation"around the managementofthe Lancefield Park precinct.

"Ithas become clear thatthereisno agreed upon path, no consensus on away forward, there'sa little bit of consternation around whatitmeans forthe place," he said.

"One of the main things broughttome from membersofthe community on this issue is amatterofequity

"It'sfairly well-recognised by people that

the council does manageother places in the shireand contributequiteabit to theupkeep and use of similar types of public land and open space,sothereisafeeling of "Come on mate,fair'sfair".Lancefield doesn't have that flowofassistancecoming to them."

Thecouncil contributes some funding towardsmaintenancefromits annual budget

Cr Young cast doubtonstate government funding forthe park and suggested it fell back to the council "to do the rightthing and help out the town of Lancefield"

"Atthe momentthereisnoone capable of funding and managing it. It's our responsibility to assess theequityacross the shire,"hesaid.

"Weare providing this servicetoresidents in everyother town within the shire. Lancefield shouldn't miss out."

Thereport to council is expected to include assessmentofthe currentgovernanceand management, an estimatedongoing operational and maintenancebudget, required capital works, risk and other relevant matters.

While the report does notnecessarily mean the council will takeovermanagementofthe reserve, it will givecouncillorsanindication of whatthatmay look likeifitweretobeconsidered in the future.

Lancefield Park is the only one of its kind in the shirethatisunder acommittee of managementand run by volunteers on Crownland.

Daylight theft– vanwrecked

Policeare investigating the bizarrebackground to amid-morning theft of acaravan thatwas wrecked when it smashed into a tree on the outskirts of Lancefield.

Thealleged offender waslast seen driving an early model utility with ayellowstripe towardsWoodend.

This brazen theft, which took place around 10.30am last Monday,has seemingly jolted some of the community

While some suspicious nighttime behaviour has occurred from time to time in the past in Lancefield and Romsey and surrounds, this incidentmay promptresidents to become moreaware of their surroundings 24 hoursa day.

The Express understands the caravan, valued at about $20,000, wastaken from a Louise Lane property around 10.30am, about twohoursafter autility wasseen moving up

and down the short street.

Astreet residentbecame suspicious when he sawthe caravanbeing hitched up on anearbyresidential property, andmade a phone call to checkonwhatwas happening.

Thecaravanwas towednorthwardsdown to the Chauncey Street intersection, where it turned left and proceeded past Lancefield Park.

On the western edgeofLancefield, the caravan became unhitched, and smashed into alarge gum tree on the southern side of the road

People were observed at the smash site, and autility wasseen going along Rochford Road.

Romseypoliceweregiven details of the episode, and anyfurther information thatmay lead to theapprehension of the offender(s) would be welcomed.

Short journey: This is howa family’scaravanended up after being towedillegally fora fewhundred metres.

Ranges Autumn Festival features more than 50 events across 30 days delivering food, fun, autumn colour, and the opportunity to choose your own adventure

Uncover autumn gardens, exclusive food trai s, weekend markets, mushroom foraging, gallery exh bitions wellness experiences guided walks kids activities and Harvest the new closing night event

Innovation is coming

Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil will establish an Innovation Working Group as part of its councillor briefing program.

Thegroup aimstoexplorenew ideas, approaches and pilot opportunities to improveservices, efficiency and long-term planning outcomes.

turedbut flexible approach to exploring innovation opportunities"

Theworking group will include councillors, the CEOand relevant officers,and operateasa discussion or exploration group, nota decision-making body

School holiday fun across the Macedon Ranges

Keep the kids active these Easter school holidays with a range of programs running from 7–18 April across multiple locations At the Gisborne Aquatic Centre and Kyneton Toyota Sports & Aquatic Centre (KTSAC), children can take part in intensive Learn to Swim programs and inflatable pool sessions, while KTSAC and the Gisborne Fitness Centre are both hosting teen gym classes for secondary students

The Macedon Ranges Sports Precinct in New Gisborne will also host a 3-day Easter School Holiday Program (13–15 April), featuring sport, dance, and arts and crafts for ages 3–12

Bookings are essential for most activities

Help

View the full program and secure your place at mrsc vic gov au/school-holidays Your Say

Current open consultations:

Areport to council recommended an innovation working group model, rather than aformal committee,"to provide astruc-

This group is expected to meetatleast quarterly,focus on keytopics in eachsession, and inviteexternal expertise where relevant andno-cost.

Push forsafetyfunding

Northern Victoria MP Wendy Lovell hasjoined the push forsafetyupgrades at the intersection of Kilmore-Lancefield Road,Main Road and High Street in Lancefield.

Theexisting intersection is notsignalised, has limited pedestrian crossing points, and the layout is confusing fordrivers,making it asafetyrisk.

Ms Lovell spokeinparliamentlast week to urge theMinister forRoads to allocate funding in the next statebudgetfor major works to upgrade this intersection.

"Improving safety at this intersection in Lancefield is apriority project forMacedon Ranges council, and the Victorian Governmentmust provide the fundingtoupgrade and signalise the intersection in this year’sstate budget,” she said.

Sister city relations end

AmyHume

Sister city relations have endedbetween Macedon Ranges and Japan's Tokai City after morethan 15 yearsofconnection.

Last week Macedon Ranges Shirecouncillorsdecided to cease formal relations with Tokai and redirect resourcing to Rangesbased projects.

MayorKateKendall said the move was based on changing economic times forcouncils and futurefinancial sustainabilityoflocal government.

"There'sa lotofscrutiny on ratepayer funds and accountability on things liketravelling expenses,"she said.

"Our small local businesses arealso doing it tough. Many sadly closing or on the brink of closure, andany freeing up of resources in our amazing economic developmentteam can really go to support our local businesses even further

Kerbside Collection and Associated Services Charge Policy (closing 16 April)

"While this chapteriscoming to aclose, we do so with respectfor the history of the relationship and those who have contributed to it, and our focusisnow on ensuring our efforts arealigned with our currentpriorities and to deliver tangible value forour community."

MRSC signed asister city agreementin 2014, which acknowledged friendship and cooperation between the twomunicipalities. It also includedafive-year action planto support culturaland educational exchanges.

Thecouncil'sreviewofthe agreement in 2023 revealed disruption during the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing economic challenges had impacted delivery of the agreement. While letter and gift exchanges continued, fewofother elements of the Sister City relationship were able to be met and both parties had reduced cultural and educational exchanges.

Last week, long-serving councillors reflected on the benefits of the sister city relations but agreed therewas aneed to focusresourceslocally

"We're facedtoday, like anyresponsible business,we've gottolook at whereweare spending our resourcesand,unfortunately, this one doesn't stack up anymore,"CrRob Guthrie said.

"Being responsible economic managers, it'sappropriate thatwedowhatweare doing tonight. We thank them,it'sbeen agreat journey."

Themotion to end formal sister city relations wascarried without opposition.

Youth Council EOI (closing 17 April)

Public Art Policy (c osing 1 May) For more information visit yoursay mrsc vic gov au

Educator - Cert 3 or Diploma, Permanent Part Time (closes 3 Apr l) Safety Business Partner, Permanent Part Time (closes 10 April)

School Crossing Superv sor, Casua (closes 10 Apr l)

Senior Governance Officer - Projects Fixed Term Full Time (closes 10 April)

For more information or to apply, visit mrsc vic gov au/jobs or call 5422 0333

Learn to Swim Administrator, Permanent Part Time (closes 17 April)

Council Meetings

Agendas are available online from 5pm the Friday before the meet ng

Scheduled Council Meeting

Wednesday 22 April, 7pm public ga lery open Wednesday 27 May,

For more information visit: mrsc vic gov au/contact-us

182Station Road,New Gisborne

A love letter to Castlemaine

Jade Jungwirth

Capturing the weird, wacky and wonderful spirit of Castlemaine and all its inhabitants, Castlemaine TheMusical is full of laugh-out-loud moments, in-jokes and talent.

Audiences were laughing from beginning to end, as ayoung couple navigatesthe intricacies of becoming locals in atownfull of hippies, footballersand hotrodders.

Thefirst big number,'Therearen'tnoRinCastlemaine', by talentedlocal writer Cate Kennedy,gives the audiencea tasteofthe hilaritythatistofollow.

"Let’s getone thing clear –it’sa creativemecca here,"narrator JenMooresings, joined by the talentedlocal chorusand back-up dancers.

"It’shotrods and passivehomes and artisanal beer,but there’snor,there’s no r-r-r-r, thereisno‘r’ in ‘Castlemaine’.

"And the person who brings your coffee will have aPhD,I bet. We’vegot eighteen yoga classes and anaturopathic vet. Anditnever rains, except when it pours,ina hundred-year flood,"theysing."

Weaving through importantsocial issues, co-writersSuzanne Donisthorpe and Cate

Programs &Services

Lymphoedema Clinic

Lymphoedemaisacondition where fluid builds up in body tissues, causing swelling, most often in the armsorlegs. Early recognition and good managementhelppeople maintain mobility and comfort. Commonsigns include swelling, heaviness, tightness, reduced movement and recurring infections.

Dhelkaya Health’s Lymphoedema Clinic provides specialised assessment, education andsupport for anyone at risk of,orliving with, lymphoedema. We offer atwo-year monitoring program for people recovering from breast surgery to help reduce the chance of developing the condition. For those with leg swelling, we guide you through the right care options and teach practical strategies to manage symptoms.

Our team is here to help.Sendreferrals to intake@castlemainehealth.org.au or you can self-refer on 5471 3575.

Current vacancies

GetActive

Chewton Historic Walk

Glenn Braybrook, Marion Landy and Elaine Appleton will lead a Chewton walk setting off from the historic Bonnet Flat Reef Cemetery on Mount Street, before looping back toward the Main Road and continuing up to Jesser’s, Ottery’s and Wikki Schrecks Grocery Shop.

Parking is available at the Chewton Fire Station.

Bring ahat and water bottle.

When: Thursday 30 April 2026

Meet: Chewton Fire Station, Mount Street Time: 10:30 -11:30 am

Cost: Free

RSVP: None required -just turn up Guide: Glenn, Marion &Elaine

More information: Call 5479 1000.

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

•Residential In-Reach Nurse – Ongoing/full-time

•Lactation Consultant/Domiciliary Midwife – Ongoing/part-time

• Clinical Nurse Educator – Ongoing/part-time

Kennedy highlightthe direhousing situation as protagonists, Melissa(BreigaYoung and Jake (Charlie Lloyd), struggle to find arental.

Purchasing arickety-old 'renovator'sdream', the pair delveintothe murky watersofFacebook group Castlemainia, wheretheydiscover the dark underbelly of the town.

Acolourful performancebylocal dancetroupe the Castlemainiacs, who highlightthe controversial supermarketand 50kwarsthathaveplayedonthe town's collective consciousness of recent years.

Theshowhappily skips across the proverbial line with songs about the 'Castlemaine shuffle'(awell-known town secret of partner swapping with abit of polygamyonthe side).

Theshowsold out quickly,leaving manydisappointedlocals. Luckily,a filmed version will be screened soon, so keep an eyeout formoredetails.

Shed location in sight

AmyHume

Newhopefor aplacetocallhome has arrived forRiddells Creek Men's Shed but it is notwithout uncertainties.

Land adjacenttoRiddells CreekLions Club Reserve, known as the 'policepaddock',has nowbeen identified as apotential shed site.

However, the group mayneed to wait a further eightmonthsfor clarity on whether it can relocate due to severalsitechallenges.

It followsthe group's struggletofind ahome sinceits auspice agreementwith the Riddells CreekNeighbourhood House ended in 2021.

Last week, Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil offeredin-principle support fordirect negotiation of alease with the Men'sShed forthe policepaddocksite but revealed it would be alongprocess.

Thepolicepaddockislandlocked withno immediate access, requires further investigation and its availability forthe shed is still notguaranteed.

That land is maintained by the council and its primary use is 'Outdoor Park and Facilities',howeverthereare no current or proposed futureplans forthe site. The council has enteredconversations with the adjacentStAmbrose Catholic Church for siteaccess.

Councillor AndrewScanlon said the process of finding asitefor the Men's Shed had

shown the strong community support and recognition of its importance.

"While the work is notfinished, thereis anew and definitedirection outlined,"he said.

Last week the council also dismissed two other options to house Riddells CreekMens Shed: at theold Riddells Creek Fire Station and Riddells CreekRecreation Reserve.

MRSC wasoffered first rightofrefusal on the Riddells CreekFireStation at 67 Main Road last year as the state governmentpreparedfor the brigade's relocation.

Last week the council confirmed it would notseek the sitefor community use due to complexities of planning considerations.

Thecouncil also rejected Riddells Creek Recreation Reserveasa possibility due to its zoning thatprohibits use of the land for aMen's Shed.

However, Cr Daniel Young said he was "notcompletely convinced" thatthe options discountedhad been "completely worked through". He stressed thatthe currentoption was"notwithout its own difficulties"

"I think we do need to keep an open mind that if this is going to be alengthy process, theremightactually something else come up.Hopefully theremightbea better option. We'vegot abit of work to do,"hesaid.

Thecouncil intends to resolvenegotiations forthe policepaddockbyNovember

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Keating the Dog,playedby Luca Romani, provided hilarious slapstick comedy thathad the audienceinstitches!

Photo: BrendanMcCarthy

Brought back to life k t

RomseyMen's Shed has celebrated the completion of its importantand challenging T-Model Ford restoration project.

Restoration of the vehicle, originally sold and registered by Gardiner'sGarageinGisborne in 1926, took just under four yearstocomplete

The1925 Canadian-built T-Model waspresentedtothe public forthe first time at an open dayheld last Thursdayat the men's shed.

In fine weather,itwas attended by about 200 people from acrossthe Macedon Ranges and even metropolitan areas.

SixrestoredT-Models, driven long distances in some cases by enthusiasts, were presentto add to theatmosphere.

Men'sshed president, Kevin Fothergill, said the T-Model project has been agreat success, projecting the shed's imageinthe community

Back in September,2022, the men's shed received adonation from long-time Romsey resident/businessman Doug Newnham in theform of the Ford T-Model chassis, amotor anddrivetrain.

When it waspickedupfrom Mr Newnham's premises with afork lift onto atrailer,there wasconcern it could break into smaller bits, the condition was so bad.

Undeterred, apositiveat-

titude prevailed and all rose to the challenge.

Theproject team led by Jeff Smith and Paul Green worked tirelessly to chaseupparts from all over Australia and even globally in some cases, as there is international interest in the T-Model vehicle thatwas such arevolutionary vehicle forits time.

Ford T-Models were produced from 1908 to 1927.

Thereweremanysmall

businesses and individuals who gave their time and expertise to complete the restoration to as close to original as possible.

Doug Newnham generously signed over theT-Model to the men'sshed in perpetuityasa community asset, to be used fordisplayand other community or individuals' use. Themen's shed wasalso pleased to welcome Peter Gardiner,son of the Gardiner's Garage proprietorofthe day

when thevehicle wassold and registered in 1926, and Carl Neilsen —along-time Kyneton tyre business proprietor— who wasa major donor

Theshed'scatering team putona free sausagesizzle and coffee and teafor the occasion.

Storageofthe gleaming T-Model will be much easier when theshed's social area is movedtoalong-awaited new adjacentbuilding, which wasto begin construction last week.

YOUR LOCAL MACEDON RANGES GLAZIERS FOR OVER 55 YEARS

Historic day: Pictured (from left) with the splendidly restored T-Model Ford utility/truck on Thursday are Peter Gardiner, Doug Newnham and Carl Neilsen

Avibrant showcase of local creativity

Artloversand curiousvisitors alikeare invited to explorea vibrantshowcase of local creativity when the Phoenix Macedon Ranges Artand CraftGroup holds its annual Exhibition and Sale this April.

Theexhibition will takeplace at the historic OldGisborne Court House across the Easter weekend, offering aunique opportunity to viewand purchase handcrafted works createdbylocal artists.

Doorswill be open on Saturday, April 4, from 10am to 4pm, and again on Easter Sunday, April 5, from 9am to 3pm. TheSunday session coincides with the popular Gisborne Olde Time Market,making it an ideal dayout forvisitors to the region.

Theexhibition features a diverse rangeofart and craft, including painting, glass art, ceramics, jewellery,paper craft, woodwork, textile art and knitted pieces. Every itemondisplayhas been handcraftedlocally,reflecting the skill and creativityof artists from acrossthe Macedon Ranges.

Visitorswill also have the chancetomeetthe artists behind the work, offering insightintothe techniques, inspiration and stories thatshape each piece

Organiserssay the eventisnot only achancetosupport local makers, but also to celebratethe importantrole thatarts and crafts playinbuildingaconnected and creativecommunity

Exhibition celebrates an artisticfamily legacy

Anew exhibition in Kynetonisshining a lightonthe enduring influenceofone local artist and the creativelegacy shared across generations of his family

ALife, Carved, Beaten, Forged,a majorexhibition by artist PeterButterworth, is nowon displayatTrio ArtStudio and Gallery.The exhibition notonlyshowcases Butterworth’s work, but also reflectsonthe artistic journeys of his sons, Matthewand Daniel, both recognised artists in their ownright.

Theexhibition explores howcreativepractices and values canbepassed down within families –not simply as technicalskills, but as ways of seeing and engaging with the world. While some families pass on trades, the Butterworths’story highlights howcreativity itself can become ashared inheritance.

PeterButterworth is known forhis longstanding commitmenttohis craft, built on decades of consistentpracticeand refinement. Hiswork has contributedtoshaping the local arts culture, both through his ownoutput and through his support of other artists. His influenceextends beyond his artworks to the mentorship, encouragementand conversations he hasoffered within the creativecommunity.

Matthewand Daniel Butterworth, while shaped by their upbringing in an artistic environment, have developed distinctvoicesand approaches. Their work reflectsdifferentperspectives and creativedirections, underscoring howshared influences can lead to diverse artistic outcomes.

Theexhibition also highlights thebroader role of the arts within communities. Organisers sayitserves as areminder thatartistic work is notan“optional extra”,but an essential part

of community life– helping people process change, express ideas and connect with one another Visitorswho have encounteredthe Butterworths’work across galleries, studios and community spaces oftendescribe it as accessible and engaging, with astrong sense that their creativity is intended to be shared.

More than aretrospective, ALife, Carved, Beaten, Forged is presentedasacelebration of dedication, creativepracticeand the ripple effects of an artistic lifeacross generations.

Theexhibition is open Saturdays,Sundays and Mondays from 10am to 4pm,and runs until May10.

Matt, Peterand DannyButterworth.

Violenceagainst women is the most prevalenthuman rights violation in Australia and around the world.”

That wasthe confronting messagefrominternational human rights lawyer and activist Jennifer Robinson, who spoke to more than 200people at Bendigo’sCapital Theatrethis month as part of ARCJustice’s Talking Justiceevent

Robinson didn’t hold back in her criticismofhow womenare treatedinthe justicesystem, particularly those who’veexperienced sexual assault or family violence.

“The statistics areshocking,”she said. Shewarned thatthe legal systemisoften used against the very people it should protect. “The legal systemthatshould protectus from violencecan be used to silenceusabout violence,”she said in her 30-minutekeynote address.

Robinson said speaking out remained criticaltodriving change. “Wecan’t tackle violenceagainst women if we can’t speak aboutit. Andbybreaking the silenceabout it,wecan createchange.”

Heraddress also turned to climatechange, with ablunt assessmentofgovernment inaction.

“Climate changeisnot afuture problem. We have already caused irreparable damageto

the climate system. It’s well past the timefor our governments to act withthe urgency we need.”

Robinson outlined the legal consequences of arecent landmark international case she worked on, which confirmed countries had binding obligations to protect the climate system.

ARCJusticeCEO Damian Stock said the eventshowed whythese conversations matter,particularly in regional communities.

“Too oftenthese issuesare framed as distantorabstract They’renot,” he said.

“Wesee the impact of family violence, housing stress and climate disastersevery day across our region. Bringing these conversations to Bendigo mattersbecause this is where people areliving the reality of these systems.”

Stock said the strong turnout reflected aclear appetite fordeeper public discussion about justice, accountability and access to legal support.

“The lawshould work for people. Events likethis give people achancetounderstand the issues, question thesystem and think about howchange happens.”

Theaudienceoflawyers,advocatesand students contributed questions to awide-ranging Q&A, curated by MC Karen Percy, thatexplored access to justice, the 'missing middle' of legal assistanceand the growing pressureonregional communities facing climate and housing challenges.

Sharing stories and wisdom

What do women need todayand whatdo women want fortomorrow?These questions areripe forpondering at afreecommunity eventatNewham MechanicsHall on Thursday, May14, forall Macedon Ranges women.

The‘Tomorrow Woman’ team promises an engaging and impactful two hoursofcasual and honest conversation exploring what tomorrow mightlooklikefor each of us.

It is an opportunityfor anyone identifying as awoman to sharestories, experiencesand wisdom around issues such as gender stereotypes and modern womanhood.

Theevening is being jointly organised by the Macedon Ranges Suicide Prevention Action Group,with the support of Murray Primary Health Network.

MRSPAG’s Bianca Darmanin said past events tailored to men’s mental health highlightedthe valueofmaking timefor gender connection and support.

“Seeing the friendshipsand conversations thatgrewfromthe many men’s nights inspired us to create asimilar evening for women —a chancetoconnect,reflect and feel part of something meaningful.”

Organisershopethe eventwill laythe foundation foranannual occasion providing support and empowermentfor womenina judgment-freespace

Guests will also be invited to honour the massivecontribution to the communitymade by MRSPAG founder Noelene Ward,who died in January Newham MechanicsHall is at 1292 Rochford Road,Newham. Doorsopen at 6pm, with acatereddinner served before the workshop at 6.30pm Register now: www.tomorrowwoman.com. au/public-events-calendar/gather-with-theladies-of-the-macedon-ranges

Forinformation about Tomorrow Woman, visit www.tomorrowwoman.com.au

Internationalhuman rights lawyer and activist,Jennifer Robinson, at the Talking Justice event.

What’sOn THIS

Bigyear ahead for VGR!

Thelocal volunteer operated Victorian Goldfields Railway will be busy again this Easter, helping to bring visitorstothe region and giving travellersa memorable journeyout to the 149th Maldon Easter Fair

Theregular Goldfields Explorer trains will operateon Good Friday, Easter Saturday and Sunday.

Twospecial trains will also operateoverthe Easter weekend, offering something abit different.

On Good Fridayevening, a Wine and Cheese Soiree train will depart Castlemaine Station at 5pm, as the heritagetrain meandersalong the tracks, you'll be transported into a world of decadence.

Savour adelightful selection of winescarefully curated for your palate.Tastingnotes will guide youthrough the nuances of each wine as the VGR stewardsservea lavish cheese platter during the journey.

Dinner will be held at the Porcupine Village’sGolden Nugget Restaurantupon arrival at Maldon. Thereturn journey wouldn’t be complete without adessert wine to accompanya delectable dessert!

Easter Monday alwayssees one of the best climaxes to Easter in the region, the Maldon Easter Fair procession. This year, VGRhas asteam train departing Castlemaine Station at 9.15am, to getyou outtoMaldon early enough to watch the procession and then partakeinthe Easter festivities departing Maldon at 2.45pm.

Forthose who haven’tgot time fora full dayonthe train, Easter Monday will also see a short one-hourtravel option starting at Maldon at 12.45pm –for aquick trip outtoMucklefordand back. It’ll be abusyyear again for the team at the VGR, with the return of Steam Locomotive K160, following a12-year overhaul at Newport Workshops.

It also marks 40 yearssince heritagetrains starting operating out of Maldon station back in 1986, festivities to celebrate the twobig achievements arein the planning phase forAugust.

This year also marks Maldon’s 60th anniversary of being declared ‘Australia’s First Notable Town’and theVGR is looking forwardtohelping the town celebratethis milestone on May10.

EasterServices

Localchurches welcome community members and visitorstoattendtheir services this Easter Anglican Parish

Christ Church Castlemaine on Agitation Hill

Maundy ThursdayApril 2

8pm foot washing, strip of altars, watchof prayer

Good FridayApril 3

9am Good Fridayliturgy- Veneration of the Cross

11am Ecumenical Stations of the CrossWalk

3pm Stations of the Crossmeditation

St Johns Chewton

Easter SaturdayApril 4

5pm Easter Eucharist

Christ Church on Agitation Hill

Easter Day April 5

10am Choral Eucharist Presbyterian Church

(atformer Olivet Christian College, Main Road, Campbells Creek)

Good FridayApril 3

9am ServicefollowedbyHot Cross Buns &Tea

Easter Day April 5

10am Easter Service.

Easterfun at Maldon

Maldon Easter Fair returns from April 2-6 and is celebrating 149 yearsin2026. Allthe funofthe five-dayextravaganza kicks offonThursday evening withthe symbolic lighting of of the towerlights on Mount Tarrengowerand TheGreat Aussie Scone Bake competition.

On Good Friday, the Combined Open Air Church Servicetakes placeatthe Beehive Chimneyfrom10.30am. Maldon Football Netball Club will also host the Maryborough Castlemaine Football Netball Club season opener against Dunolly with plenty of Easter-themed activities forthe kids, and the Maldon VintageMachinery Museum's annual three-dayVintageEngine Rallykicks off.

On Easter Saturday, wander the sprawling Easter Market,try your luck at the Maldon Golf Club's popular 'Hole-in-Hole'competition, takeinthe torchlightprocession, and wind up the day'Dancing inthe Street'with belovedhost David Skinner

TheVGR continues to be a volunteer run and maintained non-for-profit organisation, helping to preserveand maintain asliceofour local history Head to theirwebsite: www vgr.com.au formoredetails and to getinvolved–they’vegot a job to suit just about everyone and thereisalwaysplenty to do!

AllVGR trains can be booked via the websiteor contact the VGRofficeon (03) 5470 6658 or via email at info@vgr.com.au

On Easter Sunday, the RACE YA Family FunDay will be held at the Bill Woodfull Reservefrom11am to 3pm raising funds for Asthma Australia in honour of late Maldon teen NedCameron, and the Maldon Brass Band Concert will takeplace at Maldon Hotelat3pm

On Easter Monday,the fair will be capped offwith the massivegala streetparade from 10.30am and traditional streetgames.

Full steam ahead! VGR’smighty J549 steam engine returned to the rails on March20.

(Left) Commedes Garçons,Tokyo (fashion house), ReiKawakubo (designer) Look 2, from the Wonderland collection,autumn–winter2009(detail). Photo© rstVIEW.Model:Melodie Dagault

(Right) Vivienne Westwood,1994. Photo© Inezvan Lamsweerde andVinoodh Matadin/Trunk Archive

Peace of mind starts with aconversation

Thereare some conversations in life we tend to put off. Talking about our ownfuneral or end-of-lifewishes is oftenone of them.Yet,time and again, families tell us that when these conversations have happened beforehand, it makes an incredibly difficult time just a little easier

Planning ahead does nothaveto mean making firmdecisionsstraight away.Sometimes it simply means thinking about whatmatters to you— how youwould liketoberemembered, the kind of farewell thatreflects your life, and the people youwouldwantgathered around.

At T.J. Scott&Son Funeral Directors, we oftenremind families thata funeral is notreally about death —itisabout life. It is amomenttopause, to gather together,toshare stories and memories, and to honour someone in away thatfeels meaningfuland personal. When someone dies, taking the time to acknowledge their lifethrough athoughtful farewell canbeincredibly importantfor those who remain.

In recent years, some people have begun to wonder whether afuneral is necessary at all. Yetweregularly see how powerful these gatherings can be. Aservice— whether large or small, traditional or modern —provides an opportunity forconnection, reflection, and healing.

It allows family and friends to come together,tosay goodbye,and to celebrate the unique lifethathas been lived.

Onesimple waytobegin thinking about these things is by recording afew personal wishes. That is whyweoffer our 'Your Goodbye'and 'Your Story' booklets —gentle promptsdesigned to help youreflect on whatisimportantto youand to sharethose thoughts with the people youlove

These booklets arenot contracts or formal plans. They aresimply aplaceto jotdownideas —the music youlove,the stories youwould want told,the people whohaveshapedyour life.Manyfamilies find thatcompleting them together becomes ameaningful conversation in itself

If youwould likea complimentary copy of the Your Goodbye booklet, we can post or email acopytoyou. It is asimple step thatcan bring great peaceofmind —bothfor youand for those who will one daycarry your story forward.

Because in the end, every life deserves to be remembered, and every farewell should be as uniqueasthe person it honours

To request your complimentary booklet, contactKelly Scotton(03) 5422 6455 or email kelly@tjscottandson.com. au.

Legendary sounds liveatThe Capital

Themusic of Santana and TheDoobie Brotherswill come alivein Bendigoasthis high-energy tribute showtakes to thestage at The Capital TheatreonSaturdayApril 11

Featuring afull liveband of seasoned musicians, the showcelebrates the iconic sound of twoofthe most influential actsinclassic rock history —fromSantana’s signatureguitar-driven Latin grooves to TheDoobie Brothers’ unmistakable harmonies and feel-good hits.

Audiences can expect adynamic liveexperiencepackedwith timeless favourites including Black MagicWoman, Smooth, Long Train Runnin’, Listen To TheMusic and more.

With authentic musicianship, infectiousenergy and asetlist of foot-stomping, sing-along anthems spanning generations, this show promises anightofunforgettable live music

Don’tmiss your chancetoexperiencethese legendary sounds live at TheCapital.

Ticketsare on sale nowvia TheCapital Theatreorat dinojag.com/bendigo.

Vegisgetting edgy

Which dish, across Macedon Ranges or MountAlexander Shire, will win the Edgy VegAwardsthis year?

Vegetables aregetting edgy again this April as the Edgy VegAwards returns forits fifth year

Running from April 1–30, the month-long celebration of vegetable dishes spans eateries across the two shires. This year,29cafes, pubs and restaurants areserving veg-forward dishes —and youdecide the winners by eating and rating them

From Maldon to Gisborne, and all the towns in between, they’veagain gotyou covered.

In Gisborne, 3Little Pigs Cafe is serving afragrantVegetable Curry, while Bowl'dhas their Soul Harvest Protein Bowl. Next to Macedon Ranges Wholefoods fortheir warming Turkish Bride Soup

Then fordessert,headtoMount Macedon Trading Post fora Blueberry and Coconut Chia Pudding topped with toastedseeds.

Castlemaine and surrounds are again bursting with options. Visit two newentrantsthisyear: Klua Sathorn Thai with their TheIn-LawTofu, then TheRoyal Sultan withtheir delicious Coconut Vegetable Curry. Returning fora second year,FiveFlags Merchants in Campbells Creek with their hearty Spicy SweetPotatoand Black Bean Burger,and Maldon Bakery’s Autumn berry and rhubarb pudding.

Thestakes areserious too. ThelatestAUSVEGVegetable Industry SentimentSurvey shows twoinfive growers areconsidering leaving the industry within a year,soeating moreveg helps support farmersand local eateries still recovering from bushfires and rising costs.

Plan your vegadventureatedgyvegawards.com.au —and Eat Well!BeWell!

TheEdgy VegAwardsisrun by VegAction,with support from HealthyLoddon Campaspe, Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil, MountAlexander ShireCouncil, RT Edgar,Snap Fitness and CommunityBank Gisborne and District.

TheListen To TheMusic Tour features ahigh-energy livetributetoSantana and TheDoobie Brothers.

Charlee from 3Little Pigs in Gisborne, with Vegetable Curry.

Photo:TiffanyWarner Photography

Appealclose to Newstead’sheart

Newstead and District FireBrigade membersChristopher and Cheryl Simmins have adeep connectiontothe TheRoyal Children's Hospital'sannualGood Friday Appeal, and one thatsadly comeswitha greatdeal of grief.

When their seven-month-old son James died in 1977, the support from staffatThe RoyalChildren’s Hospitallefta profound impact on them

“Our son James would oftengoblue and stop breathing, and we’d rush him to the doctor, butbythe time we gotthere he would be fine,”Christopher said.

“Then one morning he wastransferred to RCH, whereheremained untilhe passed away sevenmonths later.

“The staff at RCHwereamazing, and treatedJames as if he wastheir ownchild.

“Wedealt withmanyspecialists, many surgeries, all differenttypes of medication and nothing helped. We know nowthathe had auniqueneuromuscular atrophy, but it’sstill neverbeen fully understood.”

Despitethe incredible toll James’loss had on them,Christopher and Cheryl becamepassionate about fundraising forthe Good FridayAppeal. Nowthe local area manager forthe appeal, it wasChristopher who ultimately led the Newstead Fire Brigade to getbehindthe cause.

“He[James] wasthere, and then he wasn’t. We couldn’t drivenear the hospital forabout 20 years, because it just brought on so much trauma. Afterhepassedaway, Ithrew myself into helping as muchasI could at thetime, butitwas devastating,” Christopher said.

“Wemoved to Newstead in 1984, and Ijoined the brigade and became fully involved in everything they do, all the community events.Separately,Cheryl and Ialso raised funds forRCH.

“The brigade had neverfundraised for the appeal before.Ittook awhile, but in 2010 Iasked the ‘has anyone hereever needed TheRoyal Children’s Hospital?’,and half the brigade put their hand up. So,we started from there.”

In 2011, their first year of fundraising as abrigade, theyraised $850. Butthey also achievedsomething bigger –shifting mindsets in the brigade and proving thatit could be done.

“Getting started and breaking the ice, in asense,was abit tricky.But the personal

Creativeprojects boost

Anew round of the state government'sCreativeProjects Fund is nowopen. Thefund provides one-off grants of between $10,000 and $30,000 to support projects led by Victorian artists, creative collectives and micro-organisations.

Projects can include newwork, professional and career developmentopportunities and innovativeprojects.

Applications will be assessed by industry experts.

Projects supported through this round will begin from October 1this year. Forfull programand application information, visit: creative.vic.gov.au/funding

connections to thehospital –whether it wasa child, sibling, nieceornephew– it helped peopletounderstand the importance,”Christopher said.

“Our approach is that it’s nothow much youraise, but being part of something that’s biggerthan us. It’s forthe bettermentof the kids, theresearch, and the awareness. Whether we raise $500 or $500,000, it’sall about the spirit of the endeavour.”

On Good Friday, Christopher and Cheryl can oftenbefound generously taking time to hear stories of those who have been

impacted by the hospital.

As Newstead and District members fundraise forthe 15th time this year,they continue to honour the manymembersof the communitywho have been impacted by the work of the hospital –including, of course, Christopher and Cheryl. Make sureyou look out forthe Newstead CFAand other local CFAcollectors across the region this Good Friday, April 3, andgivewhatyou cantosupport thekids. Or alternatively youcan donate online at www.goodfridayappeal.com.au/donate

Newstead and District FireBrigade members Christopher and CherylSimmins and theircreware pictured during the 2025 appeal.

Autumn in thebotanic gardens

An Autumn Community Picnic at the KynetonBotanic Gardens on April 19 invites people to enjoyanafternoon of free fun and entertainment.

Theday will include aQ&A with special guest Dr Greg Moorewho is an arboriculturist and ABC Radio Melbourne `tree expert',aswell as music by acoustic duet 'Hey Amigos!',a performancebythe KynetonPrimary School Choir,anappearance by Fairy Caitlin and her offsider Simbalabim the Wizard, and Frank'sCaffeine Truck will also be on siteserving coffees.

People areencouraged to bring along their ownpicnic and enjoythe gardens.

TheAutumn Community Picnic will be held at theKynetonBotanic Gardens on Sunday, April 19, from 11am to 3pm.

This free eventisopen to all families, local groups, community membersand visitors to attend.

Theevent is organised by TheFriends of the KynetonBotanic Gardens and supported by the Macedon Ranges Shire Council.

Lionsraise funds forfire victims

TheGisborne and District Lions Club's recent fundraiser to support the Harcourt and Ravenswood firevictims raised $22,000.

With the $20,000 the club previously provided, the Gisborne Lions will provide atotal of $42,000 to thehomeownersand thebusinesses thatwereimpacted by the February fires.

Thesell-out eventattracted 110 people, and included atwo-course meal, with music provided free of charge by country singersCraig Lloyd andAdeyJordan. Gisborne and District Bowling Club wasalsoprovided free of charge as thevenue

Representing Lions of DistrictV1-4 at the function were district governor Samantha Wu andpartner IvanLuo. Guest speaker George MilfordfromHarcourt gave an emotional accountofthe extent of devastation caused by the fires.

He thanked firefighters and the manylikeGisborne Lions who have aided the town. George said his "never-say-die"townwas fighting back.

Despitethe heartbreak, Harcourt is already on the comeback trail, with the cool store to be rebuilt and newhousing estatesbeing planned forthe town.

Thefundraiser forthe eventattracted 60 entities and individuals thatdonated 12 auction items and 90 monster raffleprizes thatgenerated $6820.

Akey auction item wasa framed Western Bulldogs jumper signed by their captain Marcus Bontempelli and coach Luke Beverage,which sold for$1550.

Further,18entities and individuals provided sponsorship funding forthe eventtotalling $11,530.

Gisborne Lions Club presidentRussell Walker OAMthanked the community fortheir support of this fundraiser supporting peopleinneed from the Harcourt and Ravenswood area.

He further thanked Lions Club members andFriends of Lions foreffectively planning and delivering theevent,and the entities and individuals that sponsored the event, and provided auction items and prizes forthe monster raffle.

Gisborne Lions presidentRussell Walker OAMand District V1-4 Lions district governor Samantha Wu at the Lions Fundraiser forFireVictims.

Gisborne Football NetballClub

What aseason GFNC had in 2025 –takinghome three premierships across netball in the BFNL and women’s football in the EDFL

FOOTBALL

After asuccessful season in 2025,senior coach RobWaters continuesoninto 2026,hopingtogrowa developing younger side.Robbie will be supported by an experienced coachinggroup in Shaun Cassidy,Dallas Normington and former GFNC players Jarrad Lynch and Jack Reaper.Marty Weaver hastaken on the role of development coach and Jordan Ryan willagain be at the helm the U18s.

Football & Netball Ne Country Liftout 2026

NETBALL

After achievements across all gradesin2025, includingall teams makingfinals and two premierships, netball at GFNC is roaringand readyto go.Tarryn Rymer will be coachingA Grade,Kayleen Elliottwill be coachingthe AReserve team and theywill be supported by Rylee Connell (B Grade), ShelleyFarrugia (B Reserve)and Charlotte Crook (U17s).

In the offseason, GFNC has recruited Charlee Duff-Tytler and Tilly Shepherd in defence,who will work closely with MU teammatesCharlee Kemp and KirbyEliott. Theoffseason has also seen Emily Milesand AmityDrayton secure aspot with the BendigoStrikers in the 23/U team.

GFNC has adedicated and hardworkingplayinggroup across all teams and players have been able to hit the ground runningthis season at training. Thegirls are lookingfitter than ever and have had some stronghit outs.

Theclub expectsUnder 18/19s to mak their debuts duringthe year across men’s and women’s football. This willingness to playtheir youngsters is an important partofthe homegrown talent ethosthat permeates Gisborne’s roots as asmall country town community. If the pre-season is anythingtogoby, all three gradesof football will be fit,well-educated on their strengths, and as tight and connected as anygroup that have donned the red, white and blue

Preseason has also seen the inclusion of some new signings to the team. TheBulldogshave also welcomed Frank Schipano,HarryThomas, David Baynon, Dom Sullivan and HarryBryant Shane Clough, JamesGray, Dylan Johnstone and MattMerrett will be balancingVFL duties with their commitment to Gisborne,displayingsome homegrown talent with majorityof players beginningtheir career at the Gisborne RookiesJFC.The club also looks forward to seeing thecontinued improvement and growthofplayers Lucas Hannon, Campbell Johns, Will Elliott, Hugo Oliveand Lachie Evans. Zac Vescovihas been announced as captain in 2025

WOMEN

TheGFNC Women’s program is lookingstronger than ever,with abig focus on fitness and skills in the preseason, in an efforttobuild back the combined program. GFNC welcomesback Bernie Marantelli as senior women’s coach in 2025.Berniewill be supported again by coach Shannon McFerran, ahighly decorated VFLWplayer/AFLplayerand coach, and club best and fairest winner

Amanda Crooks takes on the role of captain this year,after asuccessful season in the joint captaincywith EaglesplayerBelinda Hateleyand will be supported by vice-captain Stephanie Brancatisano.The team will focus on improvingonsuccessesin2026, includingrebuilding the women’s program without the merged arrangement.The team has added more depth in the preseason with new recruits joiningthe women from the Macedon Ranges area, backed by Coates League experience.With the newly formed Division 1competition having13teams, the women hope to getanumberofwins on the board this year and stay competitive. The now‘U19s’side went from strengthtostrengthin2025and look to do so again in 2026,with aboostto the overall list. Coached again by BenCrooks, with Aaron Cerone and Izzy Hannon supportinginanassistant role,GFNC looks forward to seeinghow theteam can build on last year’s successes. Holly Vescoviwill lead the team as captain in 2026,and will be supported by vice-captains Rachel Apps, Gemma Ellis and Abbi Kropman. Theteam fosters extensivelocal talent includingGemma Ellis Kate Apps, Lauren Boukharas, Chloe Bullen, Matilda McNiven, Alice Nelson and Melia Hayes who will feature in the CoatesTalent League this season.

Football & Netball Ne Country

Castlemaine Football NetballClub

Castlemaine Football Netball Club's netball and men’s football teams play in the BendigoFootball Netball League while the women’s football team plays within the Central Victorian Football League

FOOTBALL

TheMagpies'2026season has already begun to takeshape with BaileyHenderson stepping away from Under 18s coachingand taking on the Senior side DarbySemmens is enteringasecond year with the Reserve’steam, and Senior players Harrison Sheahan and Tyson Hickey are jointly takingthe reins of the Under 18s squad. Manyofthe current players are retained forthe 2026 season with the announcement of some excitingnew recruits.

WOMEN

TheSenior Women's football side is chasingtheir fifth consecutiveflag with Jordan Cochrane takingonthe coachingrole again and Tyson Williams steppingupfrom assistant coach to cocoach.

Jordan will also takeonthe role of assistant coach forthe Under18s Bendigo Pioneers team and will manage the commitment across both.

In addition, the Magpieswill be fieldinganUnder 18s team, coached by senior playerEloise Gretgrix who coached the CFNC Under 15s team, assisted by Trevor Butcher

NETBALL

In netball, Castlemaine FNC will be fieldinganA squad team with Vanessa Saunders continuing as head coach and U17 coach, alongside new and current recruits takingoncoachingroles across the Magpie squads, includingfor the inaugural 15 &Under competition.

JUNIOR FOOTBALL

Junior football will be runningits popular AusKick program, complementingjunior football sides, from Under 9right through to Under 16 Boys’and Girls’sides.

Kyneton Football NetballClub

Kyneton Football Netball Club is entering2026full of confidence and excitement as the Tigers look to build on lastyear’s success both on and off the field.

Theclub enjoyedamemorable season in 2025,highlighted by the FIDAfootball team claimingthe premiership and the U13 footballers also securingaflag.Several other teams made strong finals appearances, while the senior men’s football side recorded its firstfinals win in 25 years.

FOOTBALL

Football & Netball Ne Country Liftout 2026

Ethan Foreman returns as senior playingcoach in 2026 as the Tigers aim to go one step further after last year’s thrillingfinals campaign.

Foreman will again lead atalented senior group,supported by Brandon Spurr as reservescoach and Adam Cook guidingthe U19.5 side

Theclub’s FIDAfootball team will also be amajor focus this season as the reigningpremiers attempt to defend their title followinglastyear’s emotional grand final victory.

Severalsenior footballers are settoreach significant milestonesthroughout the season. Hayden Smith will playhis 200th senior game in round one,while Foreman will celebrate his 250th club game. Jake Safstrom is settoreach 150seniorgames, and Isaac Barassi and DanDavie will both notch up their 100th senior appearances.

NETBALL

Theclub is fieldingfive senior teams and astronggroup of juniors developingthrough the ranks. Head coach David O’Hare returns foranother season and is excited about the talent cominginto the senior lineup

Twokey recruits will bolster the A-grade side in 2026

ChelseaHulm joins the Tigers from Casterton-Sandford. Acleverand creativegoal attack, Hulm has strong family connections to the club and is expected to form adangerous partnership in the shootingcircle alongside Matilda Candy

Theclub has also secured amajor signinginformer Australian Diamond Kristiana Manu’a. Manu’a strengthens the defensiveend after spendingthe 2025 season with the Sunshine CoastLightninginthe Suncorp Super Netball competition, bringingelite experience,leadership and firepowertothe Tigers defensiveunit.

Severalimportant milestoneswill also be celebrated duringthe season. LifememberKristy Torneyisset to playher 250th game forthe club later in the year,while D-grade defender Katie Fish will reach her 150th game milestone on Good Fridayinround one

Riddells Creek Football NetballClub

Riddell Bombers have embraced positivechangesboth on and off the field, kickingoffthe year with afantastic Sponsors Appreciation Dinner at the Riddells Creek Hotel. Theeveningfeatured special guest Shane Jacobson who entertained guestswith his lively storytellingand humour

Next up,Riddell FNC will hostits renowned Annual Sportsman's Lunch on May8,hosted by David Schwarz with an all-star panel featuringDermott Brereton, AnthonyStevens and Robbie Gray –aday not to be missed!

FOOTBALL

There'sastrongsense of exciteme and optimism amongthe playin group as the Bombers head into upcomingseason.

After back-to-back premierships, the focus has been on resettinga maintainingthe high standards have been built

There'sbeen some changesto the listbut anumber of new recruits bringagreat mix of skill, experience and energytothe side,includingNathan Hrovat (North Melbourne /Western Bulldogs), Mark Kovacevic (Shepparton), midfielder DarcyYoung(Gisborne) and midfielder Jacob Murphy(a two-time McDonald Medallist forGisborne).

Theirintegration has been seamless and renewed the hunger within the group,ready to attack the season with the goal of achievingathree-peat

Football & Netball Ne Country Liftout 2026

NETBALL

Abig changeoverofplayers this season will bringupalot of younglocal talent and bringthe averageage back down. Comingintothis season the Bombers will sportafast, controlled and energetic game.Their plan is to ruffle some feathers and pinch wins from unsuspecting teams. Theaddition of Amelia Haxbywill work alongside Mady Brown and Bri De Haas, and addingstrongsupporttoEllen Haynesand ShelbyHolter are HayleyBrown and Tilly Allen. The defensiveend is deceivingand talented –Milly and Sienna Phelan-Smith are twoto watch out for. Forthe netball department,five premierships are ontheir minds!

Dr Smith Dr Turnbull Dr Stephen Dr Fernando

Romain

Dhaliwal

Lancefield Football Netball Club

FOOTBALL

Dual premiership playerand former captain /coach Chris Collins returns as senior co-coach with Andrew McTrusty whohas been the assistant coach forthe pastthree years. Cal Randell continuesasreserves coach and senior playerTom Sayers will coach the Under 19s.

Abig emphasis has been on retainingthe existinglist, which is made up of amajorityoflocal talent.The club has added ahostofqualitynew players, includingJohn Anstee (Deniliquin Rams) ReeceWalsh (Lorne) and Tully Fattore (Greenvale) to name afew.The Tigers have also welcomed back abunch of playerswho missed alarge partof2025.

WOMEN

Football & Netball Ne Country Liftout 2026

RomseyFootball NetballClub

Women’s football enters its third year at Lancefield, with lastyear’s head coach Cash Ferguson returningtothe role.He’ll be supported by Andrew Smith, Colin Bromley, Damien Cusack and Paul Coates, who will all playapartinguidingand developingthe women’s program this season.

Theteam is headingintothe competition with strongnumbers once again, welcomingagreat group of new players. Kloe Soper,Esme Keen,Sienna Green, Emily Williams, HarmonyCassar Abigail Bonnici, Sass Gallup,Bethany Lyons and TiffWaldron all join the returningplayers from lastyear

NETBALL

Lancefield Football Netball Club is headingintothe 2026 season with strongmomentum and areal sense of belief after abreakthrough year in AGrade.Finishing fifth on the ladder and makingfinals forthe first time in alongtime wasareward forthe group’s hard work and provided aplatform to build on. Mia Daly has re-signed foranother year followinganoutstanding2025campaign where she finished runner-up in the League Best and Fairest.RetainingMia’s experience,consistencyand competitiveness is ahugeboost.

Off-season recruitment has also strengthened the squad in keyareas, highlighted by the signingofTarnee Hammond into AGrade after an exceptional run of league accolades, League Best and Fairest (B Grade) in 2024 and runner-up League Best and Fairest (B Grade) in 2025.Bridget Dods will bolster the defensiveend andLilli Florance will add supportand depth in the attack end, givingthe team more balance and flexibilityacross the court.

Pre-season trainingatRomseyhas been hugely productivefor both football and netball. Coachingstaff have worked on focus areas and are nowlookingforward to the season ahead.

FOOTBALL

Nathan Blair is again playingcoach of the senior football team, Tony Whyteisreservescoach, and Michael Richardson is in charge of the Under 19s. Theseniorssee themselves as afinals team and will be aimingtomakefinals again this year Blair says the side's strengthliesinits aggression to defend, alongwith ayounggroup coming though to bringpace to the football TheRedbacks also have awell-oiled core group that has playedtogether forthe past fewyears. Returningkey playersinclude captain Jack Jedwab as astrongkey forward,and Corey Pertzelinthe midfield alongwith Nathan Rayment.Akey newrecruit to the senior side is midfielder/forward Josh Crump who crosses overfrom East Sunbury.

NETBALL

Justin Philbyisagain coach of the A-grade netballers and says the coachingstaff are aimingfor all gradestomakeatilt at finals. Lastseason both the Under 19s and B Grade sidesmade preliminaryfinals and will be lookingtoimprove on that performance Abbie Conwayhas been confirmed forthe listthis year after only beingafill-in player lastseason. Abbie was2025Club Best and Fairest by alongshotand will star across the midcourt. KendraVann also returns after beingaway fortwo seasons due to injuryand will be a powerhouse in defence Astrongpre-season and havinggood numbers across the board has strengthened all teams.

Football & Netball Ne Country

Macedon Football Netball Club

Macedon Cats are lookingforward to their round one game at home on Good Friday(April 3) againstthe Gisborne Giants. This game will also acknowledgeSam Indian's 50th senior game forMacedon and the 100th senior Macedon game for vice-captain Toby Sims.

FOOTBALL

Players that have joined Macedon in the off-season all have the abilitytoimpactveryquickly HarryHuntley(from Kyneton) and Leigh Brennan (Sunbury) are the new playingassistant coaches.

Other recruits include Josh Govan(Maroochydore), Jack Landt (Dimboola /StMary's), Lincoln Koliba (LakeWendouree), TomRutledge and Jordy Dyer

TheCats are also very proud of home-grown talent Ronan YowYeh, who has made the final listfor the Calder Cannons U18 program after aprolific junior career and also made his senior football debut in 2025

Paul Sosic has joined Chris Nemeth in supportofthe reserves team as an assistant and Ben Douthie has joined TomHildebrand in supportofthe Under19.5team as an assistant

WOMEN

TheMacedon women's football team has afairly familiar look movinginto2026. Therehavebeenafew welcome additions to the squad, includingElla Clow(Craigieburn) and Emily Consiglio (Lancefield)

Thereturn of premiership playerScarlett Lynch will help strengthen the backline Thecoachingstaff has seen areshuffle with Matt Laingtakingoverasseniorcoach and Brianna Woodburn appointed assistant coach. Theteamisproud of twoofits youngstars, Sian Andrews and Kalea Brody,inthe Calder Cannons program.

NETBALL

2026

Woodend-HesketFootball Netball Club

There's somethingdifferent about Woodend-Hesket in 2026.The energy'selectric Thepreseason's been strong. And with amix of familiar facesand excitingnew recruits across both football and netball, everyone at the club is pumped about what this season could bring.

FOOTBALL

Al Raereturns as senior football playingcoach, bringingcontinuity, leadership and afierce commitment to buildingon2025'ssolid campaign. After astrongpreseason and some quality recruiting, the Hawks are laser-focused on one goal: returningtofinals and makingnoise when theyget there.

Theclub has welcomed new facesalongside returningplayers, creatinggenuine depth across all senior grades. Thechemistry'sthere,the work'sbeen done,and the early signs from practice matches–includingretainingthe Leith Dicker Cup againstTrentham –showthis group is ready to compete

Theclub's goals are simple: Finals in the senior competition. Competitivefootyacross all grades. And buildingaculture where everyplayer, from U19s to seniors, knows they're partof somethingspecial

Ryan MedallistChloe Williams is returningto the courtfor season 2026.She is an experienced goaler who providesexceptional leadership on court,particularly forthe younger players. Janelle Tate is another naturalleader. Her relentless defence,strongon-courtvoice and genuine supportfor those around her makeher atruly valued partofthe team and club.Taylah Chamraalso returns to defence with her elusivestyle of playand fancyfootwork. HayleyBirch is another fiercecompetitor and tenacious in defence.Her abilitytopick off intercepts and create turnovers makes her ahuge assetto the AGrade side

NETBALL

If 2025 wasastatement –all fivenetball teams makingfinals –then 2026 is about going further

And leadingthe charge is Ty Coppinger,who returns as A-Grade playingcoach as the Hawks chase something nobody's done before: four A-Grade premierships in arow Ty also coaches B-Grade,who finished 2025 strongand are hungrytobuild on that momentum. Across all grades, the Hawks have retained acore group of experienced players gf talent that'sadded depth and energytoevery squad. Beyond results, the club is committed to developingyoungtalent and creatingclear pathways from juniors to seniors. Buildingdepth,supportingemergingplayers, and creatingan environment where youngathletescan thrivealongside experienced teammatesisjustas important as what happens on the scoreboard. TheHawks aren't justchasingsilverware in 2026 –they're buildinganetball program that wins nowand keeps winningfor years to come

ScarlettLynch.

Gisborne Giants Football NetballClub

TheGisborne Giants are lookingto2026tobuild on what wasasuccessful inaugural season in the RDFNL senior competition. Takingupresidencyattheir newhome the Macedon Ranges SportingPrecinct, the Giants had fiveoftheir football/netball teams featuringinthe finals campaign –culminatinginthree teams playingingrand finals and aback-to-back Dgrade netball premiership and aC grade netball premiership.The 2026 preseason began strongly with great numbers

NETBALL

Thesenior netballprogram is again headed by AJ CraskeasAGrade and under 19 coach. The strengthofthe netball program is also underpinned through the gradeswith Taylah Behan (B Grade), Criena Lock and Genaya Bourke (C Grade) and Brad Gauci (D Grade). With strong numbers at netball trials, the Giants are lookingtobuild on their two2025premierships! TheAGrade team has been strengthened with the signingofMalia Seumanutafa. Adominant force in the goal circle,Malia’s strength, accuracy, and composure under pressure is amainstay of her game.Areliable shooter who brings calm and confidence everytime she has the ball in her hands –Giants are excited to see what 2026 brings! TheGiants' senior season kicks off on Good FridayagainstMacedon at Tony Clarke

FOOTBALL

Football & Netball Ne Country Liftout 2026

Theseniormen’s side will again be led by Andrew Hall as senior coach. Hall will be supported by Jarrod Dixon, Mark McKenzie,Carson Haynesand Andrew Clark. On field the team will again be led by Brad Mangan and Mat Quigley. The2025senior squad are all back onboard for2026with the addition of some further keyplayers. Mitch Bongiovanni joins the Giants, havingplayedwith the Western Jets as ajunior and fillingthe role of vice-captain at Caroline Strings for adecade.Bongiovanni has firmly establishinghimself as apremier-leve footballer.Connon Bills crossesfrom Romsey, havingmade his mark in the RDFNL as ajunior and the BFNL senior competition prior to this. Knownfor his elite foot skills, strong game sense and contested craft, Bills brings experience andclass to the emergingsenior group.Nathan joins the Giants on the back of best and fairest season with TherryPenola in the VAFA, bringingelite skills, composure under pressure,and sharpdecision-makingthat will make him apivotal partofthe senior midfield in 2026.AlexGriggcrossesfrom Laverton Football Club in the WRFNL havingplayedwith Point Cook prior to this. Aprevious club captain and best and fairest winner with Laverton with the abilitytoplayateither end of the ground, Griggwill bringversatilityand presence to the team.

Mt Alexander Women’s Sports Club

Falcons takeflight in 2026

Hot off the heels of astellar 2025 season, the Mt Alexander Falcons have newgoals, newstar recruits and anew-look jumper

Football & Netball Ne Country Liftout 2026

Lastseason sawthe Falcshead to their firstfinals game,athrillingbattle againstRiddells Creek. The fight waslost, butonly on the scoreboard, and the team finished the season overwhelmedwith pride.It wastime to takeabreak, reflectonthe achievements of 2025 and look toward 2026

TheFalcsfearless leader Louise ‘Cheez’Ainscough has stepped down from the top job this season. Cheez has been an exemplaryrole model forthe players and her service to the club can only be likened to Mick Malthouse in his prime.Coachingdutiesare nowbeingsharedbyprevious coachesBonnie and Lil, who are nowjoined by Lenny, Matt,Sholaki and Em. This highly experienced, all-star coachinglineup has been busy throughout the pre-season; their vision is strong. Strengthand conditioningexperts Steph Silvagni and Rosa Pater were back this year,workingwith the team this pre-season at the Sunken Oval. They have the Falcslookingstrong, fit and ready to take flightinthe RDFNL

The2026squad is lookingfresh with some brilliant new talent –Amalia, Am, Bev, Chrissi, Emerald, Fox, Garbi, Holly,Lee,Meera,Randy,Ru, Sandra, Sez, Talia and Tam. Hyperbole be damned –these recruits displaysome of the mostexcitingand rawfootball talent ever seen anywhere in regional Victoria. Much likethe raptor the team takes its namefrom, these recruits showincredible speed and agilityand are perfectly suited to huntinginlarge open areas.

TheFalcons’juniorprogramwill continueto thrivein2026withAuskick (5-7yrs) happeningat WesternReserve startingonApril25. This season, Superkick (7-12yrs) forgirls and gender-diverse kids is also kickingoff! If youoryour kid are interested,visit www.mtalexanderfalcons.com.au formore information.

All ofthiswould not be possible without the sponsors who not only supportagreat team, but athriving community. Their sponsorship providesparticipation opportunitiesfor people of all different skill levels and ages,promotinghealthand wellbeinginthe community.

Thebusinessesthat sponsor the Falcons stand alongside the club as advocatesfor action on issues important to the club,includinggenderequalityinsport, endinggender-based violence and stamping out racial discrimination.

If youwant tojoin this truly special club as aplayer, volunteer,supporter or sponsor,get in touch: football@mtalexanderfalcons.com.au

Football Fo & Netball Country Liftout 2026

Trentham Football Netball Club

With the 2026 season fast approaching, excitement is buildingasTrentham preparestolaunch its premiership defence under lastyear’s flagwinningcoach, Mark 'Addo'Adamson. Thereigningpremiers will open their campaign on April 11,facinglong-time rivals Carisbrook in what promisestobeablockbuster season opener

FOOTBALL

Adamson will be supported by a strongcoachingpanel this year,with Jack Elkington and Mark Strickland in assistant coachingroles. On-field leadership remains in good hands, with the captaincygroup unchanged —Joel Dovaston will again lead the side as captain, with Al Ferrier continuing as vice-captain, while the players have voted in astrongleadership group Theclub’s development pathway also remains robust. Josh 'Murph' Murphywill coach the Reserves, Tom'Wombat' Boyerand Al Ferrier will again guide the Under18s, Al Thompson will lead the Under15s, while Xavier Keighran returns to coach the Under 12s. Playermovement has provided the senior listwith afresh injection of talent Returningtothe club thisseason are HarryKnight,Dylan Holden and Tristan Newman. They’ll be joined by astronggroup of new recruits, includingKyneton pair Cody Youngand Sam Bartel, as well as JaiAdamson (Ireland), RileyPetrescu (Waubra), EthanSpiteri (Hillside), Emre Yilmaz (Craigieburn), Jack McHutchinson (Heathcote) and ScottJowett (Lancefield). And talkingofkey talent,don’t forget‘Boomer', will he be back again or not?

NETBALL

Maldon Football Netball Club

FOOTBALL

Trentham’s netballers have hitthe courtwith energyand strongnumbers as preparations ramp up forthe upcomingseason. Coachingappointments have nowbeen finalised across all grades, with AGrade to be led by Jess Walker,assisted by KaseyEvans. Band CGradeswill be in the hands of Jalna Holmesand Blaire Plowman, while Jess Walker also takes charge of the Under 18s, supported by Holmes. Theyounger squads are equally well resourced, with the Under 15s coached by Tamara Patterson and KaseyEvans, the Under 13s guided by Keisha Shearer with assistance from Emma Whelan, and Emma Whelan again takingthe lead forthe Under11s. Recruitment has been positive, with new players AmyVandenham, Emma Stone,Bonnie Hodgson and LaraTurnbull joiningthe club.Familiar facesMadeline Matheson, Sophie Sutherland, Adele Wilson and Charli Copeland have also returned.

TheDons are delighted to welcome back senior coach and 2025 senior club Best and Fairest Damian Wust forhis second term as coach. Wust once again led the youngMaldon side from the front in 2025 with the Dons finishinginthe top eight and unlucky to be knocked out in the Elimination Final. TheBombers have a number of new recruits includingTyson Jackson, Kane Harris, Austin Peace, Ethan Freemantle,Harry Turlock and Thomas McNeill justmention afew TheReserveswill once again be led by club champion Steve Webb and Brian Kelly TheUnder 18s will be coached by new coach Sam McGee who is coming across from the BFNL and will lookingtoassistthe squad bounce back and claim another premiership ScottSimpson and Sam Baker are takingonthe Under15s and Under 12s coachingpositions for 2026

NETBALL

Maldon's Aand BGrade netball sideswill be led by experiencedclub coach ZoeBrown who is steppingupfrom her CGrade role Jo’e Bell takes over thereins in CGrade Theclub is delighted to have welcomed on board anumber of new recruits including Caitlin Shankland, Kennedy Hall, Lani Furmston and Charlotte Harrison.

TheUnder 17s are once again beingvery capably led by superb coach Kim Williams and will be keen bounce back after their Semi Final defeat

TheUnder 15s will be guided by Justine Carroll.

TheUnder 13s and Under 11s will be headed up by LouClarke.

With four sidesmakingfinals in 2025 the club will continueto focus on buildingculture and havingfun being thecornerstone forthe year and are confident more positiveresults will follow.

• Petrol, Diesel and Oils

• Sunglasses

• Pies, Pasties, Snacks

•Live Fishing Bait

• Chainsaw Oils

• Mower Blades

• Milk, Drinks and Ice

TheBombers have agreat rangeofmerch on offer and some terrific membership packages available.Theyalso have afull calendar of social events planned. Keep an eyeonthe Facebook page fordetails. Maldon will kick off 2026 with its traditional Good Fridaymatch against Dunolly on April 3.

Maldon is gearingupfor another successful season in 2026 after havingmultiple finals contenders in 2025

Football Fo & Netball Country Liftout 2026

Newstead Football NetballClub

Newstead Football Netball Club is gearingupfor an exciting2026season, building on the strongfoundations laid in recent years and determined to push further up the ladder

FOOTBALL

Senior football coach Don Moran returns at the helm, bringingexperience,clarityand awell-defined game plan as the Roos look to takethe next step.His leadership,alongwith acommitted coaching group,has driven apositiveand focused preseason, with strongnumbers on the track and aclear emphasis on fitness, skills and connection.

Theclub has also appointed longtime Newstead figure Mark 'Rambo'RamseyasReservescoach Arespected club man with awealth of experience as both playerand coach, Ramsey’spassion, leadership and deep understandingofthe Roos’culture makehim an ideal fit to guide the next tier of senior talent

Newstead has been activeonthe recruitingfront.The Roos welcome Kyle Yanner (Hepburn), a crafty forward with stronggoal sense and aprovenability to hit the scoreboard; MitchVan De Duim (Wallan), atough, in-and-under onballer whose workrate and attack on the contest will add steel around stoppages; and Will Moran (Bendigo FL), aversatile midfielder renowned forhis professionalism, ball-winningability and polish on the outside

Theclub also celebratesthe return of former Best and Fairest Adam Hunter after ayear away from the game.Acomposed and reliable defender with elite kickingand strongmarking, Hunter’s experience andleadership will be vital in stabilisingthe back half

Across both senior football and netball, Newstead has seen an influx of new faces, boostingdepth competition forspots and overall energy. Combined with the continued development of emerging juniors, the Roos are targetinggreater consistencyand agenuine push towards finals in 2026

NETBALL

On the netball courts, LauraJohnston continuesinher coachingrole of the Aand BGrades, while Keely and Shae Petersen return to coach the CGrade netballers. Thesewomen continue providing valuable guidance,continuityand strongstandards across all grades.

TheRoos are also excited to welcome Kellie McKenzie to the club after acouple of yearsawayfrom the game.Her speed and strengthmakeher atrue utilityacross the court, and Newstead can’t wait to see her in action in blue and white this season. Participation remains high, with ahealthy blend of experienced heads and promisingjuniors, and afocus on teamwork, skill progression and enjoyment Theclub remains firmly committed to its junior pathways, ensuringclear development opportunities and long-term sustainability.

With strongleadership,fresh talent and aunited football/netball program, the Roos believe theyare well placed to make2026aseason to remember

Football Fo & Netball Country Liftout 2026

Harcourt Football Netball Club

HarcourtLions expectthat both the senior and reservesfootballers will be competingdeep into the finals in 2026 with internal growthofthe youngexciting group beingkey forboth sides.

FOOTBALL

Cam Anderson and Sam Gale have taken on the coachingrole forthe Harcourtsenior side this season, with much of the listbeing retained, so farthere has been afantastic buy in from the senior and reserve ranks with great numbers throughout the entirety of the preseason. Keyadditions forseason 2026 include,Josh Taig from Serpentine,Conner Burge from Macorna, Kyle Hamilton and DanChaplin returningfrom ayear away and Brady Stroud and Mitch Rees from South Bendigo

Massivepreseasons from existingplayers TomWalters, Brandon Vazand Baxter Gurd should have Lions supporters excited forwhatseason 2026 hasinstore

CampbellsCreek Football Netball Club

TheCampbells Creek Football Netball Club is gearingupfor an exciting2026 season, welcominganew executivecommittee and astronggroup of players and coachesacross both football and netball programs.

FOOTBALL

Returningsenior football coach MattManning, alongside assistant coach Luke Dzioba, is keen to see what this season brings Theclub has welcomed severalnew recruits who bringvaluable experience,while returningplayers have been workinghard duringthe preseason as the squad preparesfor the year ahead.

NETBALL

In the reserves, coachesBen Tombs and Jordan Picken have also returned and are lookingforward to the challenge of the new season as theycontinue developingthe club’s emergingtalent

Harcourtwarmly welcome new players and friends to the club,alongside the Lions returning to the den. As theyrebuild, the Lions' focus is firmly on resilience and fosteringastrong, supportivecommunitywithin the club

With an excitingmix of emergingyoungtalent,the securityofmajor sponsorship supporting players, and fresh leadership across the program, 2026 is shapinguptobeastrongyearboth on and offthe courtfor the Harcourtnetballers.

AbbyWilliams and Morgan Howorthwill join Jess Chaplin in the coachingteam, guidingthe squads as theyaim forcontinued growthand success in 2026

This new-look Lions squad is ready toshowthe determination and spirit that has defined them overthe pastfew months.

for community

We areproud to be the sponsor of the HFNC Netball program. Backing local sport and the communitywelove.

Herefor Harcourt, herefor the game.

In an excitinginitiativefor the community, the club is also offeringfree junior registrations forthe 2026 season. Theinitiativeisdesigned to ensure all children and youngpeoplecan access sportina supportiveand welcomingenvironment

NETBALL

On the netball side,the club is pleased to welcome new AGrade coach Tyler Fratantaro Fratantaro said he wasexcited to join the club and work with the talented group of players. “Wehavebeen workingincredibly hard during preseason as we welcome brand new players and combinations to our netball department We’re focusingonbuildingstrongand meaningful connections between players. We’re super excited forseason 2026,” he said. Fratantaroand the BGrade coachesLisa Clark and Sheryl Rose,and CGrade coachesMolly Kennedy and Tarni Williams, were impressed by the effortand enthusiasm shown by players duringtheir recent practise match againstCastlemaine “The skill, teamwork and determination from the players wasfantastic to watch, and we as coachesare excited to see what our netballers bringto the courtthisseason,”Clark said.

Football Fo & Netball Country Liftout 2026

Kyneton Wedge-Tailed Eagles

eWedge-Tailed Eaglesare setfor their firstseason as an independent club in 2026 theyenter the Central Victoria Football League

Coached by the experiencedPhilHawkes, whoheads into his sixth year with the yinggroup,the team brings strongcontinuityand awell-established culture into competition. Phil will be assisted by additional coachingand development support Eligh Blume,Billy Mitchell and Jordan Savoia.

eWedgieswill rely on the experience andleadership of club favouritesBelinda Hateleyand Teagan Ainslie,who continue to setthe benchmark on and off the field. esquad is also boosted by the arrival of recruits Ash Nicholson, Alicia Chadwick Luce Lenius, who playedinthe combined Gisborne–Kyneton United side in 2025 ng freshtalent and midfield depth as the club preparesfor its firstCVFL campaign. eclub also welcomesnewcomers to football Hannah Gajic,Demi Henderson and yButton. Allthree bringextensivebackgrounds in basketball and netball and adapted well duringpre-season.

While this will be the Wedge-Tailed Eagles’ firstseason in the CVFL as aclub,many yers in the squad have previously competed in the league and knowtoexpecta strongstandard of competition. There is optimism the team can push forfinals in its firstseason, butthe primaryfocus will be on the players enjoyingtheir firstyear together as an independent club while playingcompetitivefootball.

Football Boots

Photos:Ties Urie Photography

Football Fo & Netball Country

Round1– April 3&4(Easter)

Castlemaine vGoldenSquare (Fri)

Gisborne vKangaroo Flat (Fri)

StrathfieldsayevSouth Bendigo (Fri)

Eaglehawkv Sandhurst(Sat)

BYE– Broadford

Round2 –April 11

SandhurstvBroadford

GoldenSquarevEaglehawk

KangarooFlatvCastlemaine

SouthBendigo vGisborne

BYE– Strathfieldsaye

Round 3–April 18

Eaglehawkv Kangaroo Flat

Castlemaine vSouth Bendigo

Gisborne vStrathfieldsaye

Broadford vGoldenSquare (Sun)

BYE– Sandhurst

Round4– April 25 (ANZAC Day)

SouthBendigo vEaglehawk (Night)

BYE– Gisborne

Round4–May 2(PatCronin Round)

StrathfieldsayevCastlemaine

SandhurstvGoldenSquare

Kangaroo FlatvBroadford

BYE– Gisborne

Round5 –May 9

Eaglehawkv Strathfieldsaye

Castlemaine vGisborne

SandhurstvKangaroo Flat

BYE– GoldenSquare, Broadford &South Bendigo

Round6– May16

StrathfieldsayevBroadford

Gisborne vEaglehawk

SouthBendigo vSandhurst

Kangaroo FlatvGoldenSquare

BYE– Castlemaine

May23 (Interleague Bye)

Round7–May 30 &31 (IndigenousRound)

Broadford vGisborne

Eaglehawkv Castlemaine

GoldenSquarevSouth Bendigo

SandhurstvStrathfieldsaye

BYE– Kangaroo Flat

Round8– June 6(King’s Birthday Round)

Castlemaine vBroadford

Gisborne vSandhurst

StrathfieldsayevGoldenSquare

SouthBendigo vKangaroo Flat

BYE– Eaglehawk

Round9 – June 13

Broadford vEaglehawk

SandhurstvCastlemaine

GoldenSquarevGisborne

Kangaroo FlatvStrathfieldsaye

BYE– SouthBendigo

Round10– June 20

SandhurstvEaglehawk

GoldenSquarevCastlemaine

Kangaroo Flat vGisborne

SouthBendigo vStrathfieldsaye BYE– Broadford

Round11– June 27

Broadford vSandhurst

Eaglehawkv GoldenSquare

Castlemaine vKangaroo Flat

Gisborne vSouth Bendigo

BYE– Strathfieldsaye

General Bye– July 4

Round12– July 11

GoldenSquarevBroadford

Kangaroo Flat vEaglehawk

SouthBendigo vCastlemaine

Strathfieldsaye vGisborne BYE– Sandhurst

Round13– July 18

Broadford vKangaroo Flat

Eaglehawkv SouthBendigo

Castlemaine vStrathfieldsaye

GoldenSquarevSandhurst BYE– Gisborne

Round14–July25

SouthBendigo vBroadford

Strathfieldsaye vEaglehawk

Gisborne vCastlemaine

Kangaroo Flat vSandhurst BYE– GoldenSquare

Round 15 –August1

Broadford vStrathfieldsaye

Eaglehawkv Gisborne

SandhurstvSouth Bendigo

GoldenSquarevKangaroo Flat

BYE– Castlemaine

Round 16 –August8

Gisborne vBroadford

Castlemaine vEaglehawk

Strathfieldsaye vSandhurst

SouthBendigo vGoldenSquare BYE– Kangaroo Flat

Round17–August15

Broadford vCastlemaine

SandhurstvGisborne

GoldenSquarevStrathfieldsaye

Kangaroo Flat vSouth Bendigo BYE– Eaglehawk

Round18– August 22

Eaglehawkv Broadford

Castlemaine vSandhurst

Gisborne vGoldenSquare

Strathfieldsaye vKangaroo Flat

BYE– SouthBendigo

Finals Series

Qualifying &Elimination Finals –August29& 30

Semi Finals –September 5& 6

PreliminaryFinal –September 12

Grand Final –September 19

Round1– April 3

Macedon vGisborneGiants

Kynetonv Woodend-Hesket

Round1– April 11

Melton SouthvsDiggersRest

Romsey vLancefield

Wallan vMeltonCentrals

Riddell— BYE

Round2 –April 18

DiggersRestvRiddell

Lancefield vMacedon

Woodend-HesketvWallan

Gisborne Giants vRomsey

Melton Centrals vMeltonSouth

Kyneton— BYE

Round3– April 25

Wallan vMeltonSouth

Macedon vRiddell

Woodend-HesketvGisborne

Giants

Lancefield vKyneton

DiggersRest—BYE

Melton Centrals —BYE

Romsey —BYE

Round4– May2

Romsey vWoodend-Hesket

RiddellvLancefield

Kynetonv Wallan

Gisborne Giants vMelton

Centrals

DiggersRestvMacedon

Melton South— BYE

Round5 –May 9

Gisborne Giants vDiggersRest

Melton Southv Kyneton

Melton Centrals vLancefield

Romsey vRiddell

Macedon vWoodend-Hesket

Wallan —BYE

Round6– May16

Lancefield vWoodend-Hesket

RiddellvMeltonSouth

Romsey vMacedon

Wallan vDiggersRest

Kynetonv Melton Centrals

Gisborne Giants —BYE

Round7–May 23

Kynetonv Romsey

DiggersRestvMeltonCentrals

Gisborne Giants vWallan

Melton Southv Macedon

Woodend-HesketvRiddell

Lancefield —BYE

Round8– May30

Lancefield vMeltonSouth

Kynetonv DiggersRest

RiddellvGisborneGiants

Melton Centrals vRomsey

Macedon vWallan

Woodend-Hesket—BYE

King's Birthday –June6–BYE

Round9 –June13

Melton Centrals vRiddell

DiggersRestvLancefield

Gisborne Giants vKyneton

Melton Southv WoodendHesket

Wallan vRomsey

Macedon —BYE

Round10– June 20

Melton Southv Gisborne Giants

Woodend-HesketvMacedon

RiddellvKyneton

Lancefield vWallan

Romsey vDiggersRest

Melton Centrals —BYE

Round11– June 27

RiddellvWallan

Macedon vMeltonCentrals

Gisborne GiantsvLancefield

Woodend-HesketvDiggersRest

Melton Southv Romsey

Kyneton— BYE

Round12– July4

DiggersRestvMeltonSouth

Kynetonv Macedon

Lancefield vRiddell

Melton Centrals vWoodendHesket

Wallan vGisborneGiants

Romsey —BYE

Round13– July 11

Wallan vWoodend-Hesket

Romsey vKyneton

Macedon vDiggersRest

Melton Centrals vGisborne

Giants

Lancefield —BYE

Melton South— BYE

Riddell— BYE

Round14– July18

Woodend-HesketvMelton

South

RiddellvMeltonCentrals

Lancefield vRomsey

Gisborne Giants vMacedon

DiggersRestvKyneton

Wallan —BYE

Round15– July 25

Romsey vMeltonCentrals

Gisborne Giants vRiddell

DiggersRestvWoodend-Hesket

Melton Southv Wallan

Kynetonv Lancefield

Macedon —BYE

Round16– August 1

Melton Centrals vMacedon

Kynetonv Melton South

RiddellvDiggersRest

Wallan vLancefield

Woodend-HesketvRomsey

Gisborne Giants —BYE

Round17–August 8

DiggersRestvGisborneGiants

Lancefield vMeltonCentrals

Macedon vMeltonSouth

RiddellvRomsey

Wallan vKyneton

Woodend-Hesket—BYE

Round18– August15

Melton Southv Riddell

Woodend-HesketvKyneton

Romsey vGisborneGiants

Macedon vLancefield

Melton Centrals vWallan

DiggersRest—BYE

Finals Series

From August22

Round1 –April 3(GoodFriday)

Maldon vDunolly

Round1 –April 11

Trentham vCarisbrook

Talbot vHarcourt

NatteBealiba vNavarre

NewsteadvAvoca

Lexton vMaryboroughGiants

BYE– Campbells Creek

Round2 –April 18

Campbells CreekvTalbot

Carisbrook vNatte Bealiba

Harcourt vDunolly

NavarrevNewstead

Maldon vLexton

Avocav MaryboroughGiants

BYE– Trentham

Round3– April25(ANZAC

Round)

Trentham vNewstead

Round3–April26

Dunolly vCampbellsCreek

Talbot vCarisbrook

Lexton vHarcourt

MaryboroughGiantsvNavarre

Avocav Maldon

BYE– NatteBealiba

Round4– May2

NewsteadvDunolly

NatteBealiba vTrentham

Campbells CreekvLexton

Carisbrook vMaryborough Giants

Harcourt vAvoca

NavarrevMaldon

BYE– Talbot

Round5 –May 9

NewsteadvNatte Bealiba

Lexton vTalbot

MaryboroughGiantsvTrentham

Avocav CampbellsCreek

Maldon vCarisbrook

NavarrevHarcourt

BYE– Dunolly

Round6– May16

Dunolly vLexton

MaryboroughGiantsvNatte

Bealiba

Talbot vAvoca

Trentham vMaldon

Campbells CreekvNavarre

Harcourt vCarisbrook

BYE– Newstead

Round7– May23

NewsteadvMaryborough Giants

Avocav Dunolly

Maldon vNatte Bealiba

NavarrevTalbot

Harcourt vTrentham

Carisbrook vCampbellsCreek

BYE– Lexton

Round8 –May 30

Lexton vAvoca

NewsteadvMaldon

Dunolly vNavarre

NatteBealiba vHarcourt

Carisbrook vTalbot

Trentham vCampbellsCreek

BYE– MaryboroughGiants

Round9 –June13

Maldon vMaryboroughGiants

NavarrevLexton

Harcourt vNewstead

Carisbrook vDunolly

Campbells CreekvNatte Bealiba

Talbot vTrentham

BYE– Avoca

Round10–June20

Avocav Navarre

MaryboroughGiantsvHarcourt

Lexton vCarisbrook

NewsteadvCampbellsCreek

Dunolly vTrentham

NatteBealiba vTalbot

BYE– Maldon

Round11–June27

Harcourt vMaldon

Carisbrook vAvoca

Campbells CreekvMaryborough Giants

Trentham vLexton

Talbot vNewstead

NatteBealiba vDunolly

BYE– Navarre

Round12– July 4

NavarrevCarisbrook

Maldon vCampbellsCreek

Avocav Trentham

MaryboroughGiantsvTalbot

Lexton vNatte Bealiba

Dunolly vNewstead

BYE– Harcourt

Round13– July 11

Campbells CreekvHarcourt

Trentham vNavarre

Talbot vMaldon

NatteBealiba vAvoca

MaryboroughGiantsvDunolly

NewsteadvLexton

BYE– Carisbrook

Round14–July18

Carisbrook vTrentham

Harcourt vTalbot

NavarrevNatte Bealiba

Dunolly vMaldon

Avocav Newstead

MaryboroughGiantsvLexton

BYE– CampbellsCreek

Round15– July 25

Talbot vCampbellsCreek

NatteBealiba vCarisbrook

Dunolly vHarcourt

NewsteadvNavarre

Lexton vMaldon

BYE– MaryboroughGiants

BYE– Avoca

BYE– Trentham

Round16–August1

Trentham vNatte Bealiba

Campbells CreekvDunolly

Carisbrook vNewstead

NavarrevMaryboroughGiants

Maldon vAvoca

BYE –Harcourt

BYE –Lexton BYE –Talbot

Round17–August8

DunollyvTalbot

Maldon vTrentham

Lexton vCampbellsCreek

MaryboroughGiantsvCarisbrook

Avocav Harcourt

BYE –Newstead

BYE –Navarre

BYE– NatteBealiba

Round18– August15

NatteBealiba vNewstead

Talbot vLexton

Trentham vMaryboroughGiants

CampbellsCreek vAvoca

Harcourt vNavarre

BYE– Carisbrook BYE –Maldon BYE –Dunolly

GrandFinal –September12

Football Fo & Netball Country

Round 1– April 3–5(Good Friday / Easter Round)

CastlemainevGolden Square

Eaglehawkv Sandhurst

WhiteHillsvMarong

Bendigo Thunderv Wedge-TailedEagles

Round 2– April 10–12

Golden SquarevEaglehawk

Marong vWedge-TailedEagles

WhiteHillsvSandhurst

CastlemainevBendigo Thunder

Round 3– April 17–19

EaglehawkvWhite Hills

Bendigo Thunderv Marong

Sandhurst vCastlemaine

Wedge-TailedEaglesvGolden Square

Round 4– April 24–26(ANZACRound)

Golden SquarevCastlemaine

Marong vWhiteHills

EaglehawkvSandhurst

Bendigo ThundervWedge-TailedEagles

Round 5– May1–3

Sandhurst vGolden Square

Castlemaine vMarong

WhiteHillsvBendigo Thunder

Wedge-TailedEaglesvEaglehawk

Round 6– May8–10

Wedge-TailedEaglesvWhite Hills

Golden SquarevMarong

Eaglehawkv Bendigo Thunder

Castlemaine vSandhurst

Round 7– May15–17

Marong vEaglehawk

Castlemaine vWhite Hills

Sandhurst vBendigo Thunder

Wedge-TailedEaglesvGolden Square

Round 8– May22–24

Bendigo ThundervCastlemaine

Golden SquarevEaglehawk

WhiteHillsvSandhurst

Marong vWedge-TailedEagles

Round 9– May29–31(Pride Round)

Eaglehawkv Castlemaine

Golden SquarevWhite Hills

Wedge-TailedEaglesvSandhurst

Bendigo Thunderv Marong

Round 10 –June12–14

Sandhurst vCastlemaine

Golden SquarevMarong

WhiteHillsvBendigo Thunder

Eaglehawkv Wedge-TailedEagles

Round 11 –June19–21

Sandhurst vEaglehawk

Castlemaine vWedge-TailedEagles

BendigoThunderv Golden Square

Marong vWhite Hills

Round 1

Lancefield vMacedon

Riddell vMtAlexanderFalcons

Round 2

Mt AlexanderFalconsvLancefield

Macedon vRiddell

Round 3

Riddell vLancefield

Macedon vMtAlexanderFalcons

Round 4

Mt AlexanderFalconsvMacedon

Riddell BYE

Lancefield BYE

Round 5

Riddell vMacedon

Lancefield vMtAlexanderFalcons

Round 6

Lancefield vRiddell

Macedon vMtAlexanderFalcons

Round 7

Mt AlexanderFalconsvRiddell

Macedon vLancefield

Round 8

Lancefield vMtAlexanderFalcons

Macedon vRiddell

Round 9

Mt AlexanderFalconsvMacedon

Riddell vLancefield

Round 10

Macedon vLancefield

Riddell vMtAlexanderFalcons

Round 11

Mt AlexanderFalconsvLancefield

Riddell vMacedon

Round 12 –BYE

Round 13

Lancefield vRiddell

Macedon vMtAlexanderFalcons

Round 14

Mt AlexanderFalconsvRiddell

Lancefield vMacedon

Finals Series

SemiFinal –August8

Grand Final –August15

Round 12 –June 26–28

Eaglehawkv Golden Square

Marong vCastlemaine

Sandhurst vWhite Hills

Wedge-TailedEaglesvBendigo Thunder

Interleague –July4 (Away)

Round 13 –July10–12 (Indigenous Round)

WhiteHillsvWedge-TailedEagles

Castlemaine vGolden Square

Bendigo Thunderv Eaglehawk

Sandhurst vMarong

Round 14 –July17–19

Golden SquarevSandhurst

Eaglehawkv Castlemaine

WhiteHillsvBendigo Thunder

Marong vWedge-TailedEagles

Round 15 –July24–26

Castlemaine vWhite Hills

Marong vEaglehawk

Bendigo Thunderv Sandhurst

Golden SquarevWedge-TailedEagles

Round 16 –July31– August 2(Pink Round)

Eaglehawkv Bendigo Thunder

WhiteHillsv GoldenSquare

Wedge-TailedEaglesv Castlemaine

Sandhurst vMarong

Round 17 –August 7–9

Castlemaine vEaglehawk

Sandhurst vGolden Square

Wedge-TailedEaglesv WhiteHills

Bendigo Thunder vMarong

Round 18 –August14–16

Golden SquarevBendigo Thunder

WhiteHillsv Eaglehawk

Wedge-TailedEaglesv Sandhurst

Marong vCastlemaine

Finals Series

Semi Finals –August23

PreliminaryFinals –August28

Grand Final –September 4

What’s Abundant this month

Welcometoyour regular column,featuringnews, tips and recipes from the Castlemaine CommunityHouse and GrowingAbundancecommunities and networks.

GA,now oneofCCH’s programs, encompasses sustainability and food security

As part of the Harvest ReadyProgram, readersare invited to join in apractical, safetyfocused Chainsaw Safety Workshop designed forbeginners and those looking to build confidenceusing chainsawsfor garden, orchardorlandcare work.

This three-hour workshop combines clear, accessible theory with supervised hands-on practice. Participants will learn howtosafely operateand maintain achainsaw, understand keyworkplacehealth and safety considerations, and developcorrect techniques for pruning and cross-cutting logs. This workshop is ideal forcommunity members, volunteers, gardeners, and peopleinterested in agricultural or land-careskills. No prior chainsawexperienceis required.

Facilitator Ceilidh Meo(Long Road OliveCo-op)has been interestedinpermaculturefroma very young age, thanks to her mother's extensive self-sufficiencylibrary Aftercompleting various courses, she started teaching Chainsaw Safety Workshops when her friend wasgoing through adivorce,and

Workshop Details

needed some help to clean up some fallen branches prior to the property being sold. Ceilidh figured thattheremust be other women in similar situations, and thatshe could help peopletosaveontheir winter heating costsbyteaching them howtouse achainsawand collect free firewood

Thepurpose of the Chainsaw Safety Workshop is to givepeople the time and spacetolearn about two-strokeand electric-powered chainsaws and best practiceuse andmaintenancetechniques for the jobs that theyneedtobeable to do. This couldbepruning fruit trees or collecting firewood. Ceilidh guarantees that even if you’ve neverbeenable to start atwostrokechainsawbefore, she can showyou howtodoitfirst time, every time.

Date: SaturdayApril18 Time: 10am –1pm

Location: Castlemaine CommunityHouse, 30 TempletonStreet, Castlemaine Book online events.humanitix.com/harvest-ready-chainsaw-workshop or via the Castlemaine Community House website, or giveCCH acall on 03 5472 4842 during our office hoursMonday-Friday: 9am –3pm.

This month

-‘OLIVES’

We arecoming into olive season,and Ceilidh has shared her recipe and toptipsfor curing below: Recipe forSweet CuredOlives

Oliveharvest begins in April foroil production in centralVictoria, bu this recipe, you’ll need really ripe olives, so pick them when the skin and flesh is fully purple in late Mayorearly June. Table fruit varieties work better forthis recipe, they’reusually biggerthan oil varieties and easier to de-pit.

•2x10or20L plastic bucket with lid foratleast oneofthe buckets

•Babybottlesanitising formula (egMilton’s,available in the baby aisle of your local supermarket)

•Knifetoslitthe oliveskinopenorCherry stoner to remove the pits(highly recommended)

•Old pillowcase or cheesecloth bag of similar size

•Kitchen scales capable of weighing up to 5or10kg

•Several kilos of sugar (whiteorraw is fine)

1. Half fill theplasticbucketwith water, andadd the appropriate amountofsanitising formula according to theinstructions. Soak the pillowcase/cheesecloth bag in the solution foratleast 15 mins, then wring outand hang from the closed corners, rightside out until needed. If youhaveextrabuckets, you can leave thepillowcase soaking while youpickyour olives too. Theidea is to keep thecloth sanitised foraslong as possible before use.

2. Pick your olives into abucket half filled withthe sanitising solution and allowthem to sit foratleast 15 mins.

3. Drain theolives from thesanitising solution and slicethe skin of each one withthe knifeorde-pit them using the cherry stoner.Ifyou’veemptied the sanitising solution from the olivecollection bucket, makesureyou put the lid on it to maintain thesanitised surfaceinside.

4. Placesliced or pitted olives into damp, santisied pillowcase/cheesecloth bag and makesureit’s no more than half full.The easiest waytodothis is to open thepillowcaseoverthe topedgeofthe bucket, likeyou’relining arubbish bin. If youhavemorethanhalf apillowcaseofolives, youwill need additional clothbagswithabuckettosupport them. Make surethey’reall sanitised before use.

5. Weigh the olives in the bag(s) on thekitchen scales. Add10% sugar by weighttoeach pillowcase/ cheesecloth bag. As an example, if youhave3.5kg of olives in the bag, you’ll need to add 350g sugar

6. Twist thetop of the pillowcase closed so thatthereisspacetogently mix thesugar throughthe olives so theyare fully coated. Thebag will start to turn purple,thisisnormal and good.

7. Securethe pillowcase inside of asantisied, dry plastic bucketsothatthe base of the pillowcase is NOTtouching thebottomofthe bucket; the olives will drip theirliquid out and youdon’t want the bottom of the bag sitting in the liquid in the bucket. Placethe lid on the bucket and setasidefor two weeks, giving the olives agentlemix every couple of days

8. Remove theolives from the pillowcaseand dehydrateovernightina lowoven(keep warm, pilotlight setting, no morethan 100 degrees C) or in adehydrator on the lowest setting. Don’tthrow out the liquid in the bucket, youcan pour this into sterilised glass jarsand use as asugar substituteinrecipes, coffee,mix with soda water as acordial etc. Best stored in thefridge, but only to deter the ants from getting into it. Youcan also storeina cool dark cupboardfor at least 12 months.

9. Thedried, sweetcured olives can be stored in asterilised glassjar in acooldark placefor at least 12 months, although theymay notlast thatlong!

Castlemaine Community House is awelcominghub that supports and connectsthe community

Growing Abundanceissupported by the Victorian Governmentthrough the Community Support Fund.

Ijustwanttosay,thankyouBrendonandletyouknowhow happyIamwithyourserviceandappreciatetheworkdone! Youhavebeentheconsummateprofessional-andIhaveto saythatyoursupervisorDanielisquiteadiamondintherough. Hisworkand(andthatofhisoffshoreonthesecondday)was beautiful.Heisatruegentleman-hardworkingandexcellent work. Ialsoappreciatealltheextraattentiontodetail,prompt responsesfromyoufromtheget-go,andeventhecleanup afterwardswasamazing! Itmakesahugedifferencetothingsmyend. Acoupleofmyfriendsarelookingatgettingrendering,painting andplasteringdoneinthenearfutureandIhavehighly recommendedyou! Also,Iamhighlylikelytogettheextraworkrenderingmywall doneinthenewyearandwillbebeatingapathstraightback toyou.

Regardandhugethanks.-Rachel

Chainsawworkshop facilitatorCeilidh MeoofLong Road OliveCo-op.

@ Y YourOPINIONS

Ban the duck-shooting!

FayMagee,Trentham

Re.The article 'Rescuer threatened as birds die'(Midland Express,March 24). If it wasn't so seriousitcould be enjoyedasa MontyPythoncomedy sketchwhereall reality and reason is tipped upside down.

It is totally bizarrebehaviour on the part of the 'Game ManagementAuthority'officials to overlook the various breaches of the regulations by the duck hunters in favour of arresting arespectedwildliferescuer, ManfredZabinskas.

It is no wonder the common folk,the Aussie battlersetc., lose faith in the processes of governmentwhen resourcesare devotedto'protecting' theridiculouslysmall numbersdedicatedtothisbarbaric nonsport, killing offour native birds!

Wake up Victoria and ban the duckshooting!

Look,observe,reflect

John Shaw, Woodend

Democracy is notperfect.The Israel/ USAwar features countries thatare both allegedly democracies.Bothcountries have thrownupleadersthatare acting as tyrants. Bothcountries have the mostsophisticated armed forces, most skilled intelligence systems, and have seized the opportunity to obliterateanother country

Billions of people around the world are nowimpacted, ranging from massively, through to some being inconvenienced –very fewwill notbeimpacted in someway Bothleadershavestrong support and encouragementfromthe fundamentalreligious

groups in their owncountry.Bothleaders areurged on by extremist advisers. Both have significantly enlargedegos, and neither shows anyevidenceofempathyfor others.

In Australiawecan do little to influence whatistranspiring. Howeverwecan look/ observe/reflect on whattypeofpeople we elect to govern in our three levels of government. Democracy seeks to accommodate the reality thathuman beings are capable of the sevendeadly sins. Governing is noteasy, but if we go down the path of following someone who promises aquick/ easy/simple solution we arebound to be disappointed.

We should be on our guardagainst:

1. Fundamentalist religious groupshaving disproportionate political influence.

2. Excessively rich individuals, claimingtohaveconcern forthe 'common man', bankrolling/lobbying/advertised particular candidates.

3. Groupsthatare good at identifying problems, buthavelittle or no idea of how to tackle them.

4. People/groupsthatare excessively self-interested and have scantregardfor the common good

5. People who claimtheybelieve in Australian values, but neverspell outwhat these values look like.

We should payattention to thosewho:

1. Appear to have some consistency in whattheysay theybelieve in, and what theyactually do.

2. Appear to be able to identifyissues and have some plan/strategy/solution.

3. Appear to have done some thinking/ work, and come up with 'doable'solutions.

4. Arenot prone to blaming all our problems on the other half of 'them/us'

5. Appear to have some idea aboutwhat fairness/fair go/egalitarianism looks like.

Disgraceful

GeoffWilliams, Campbells Creek

Theattackonthe Besen Family Foundation fornoapparentreason other than that the Besens areJewish is disgraceful (‘Arts funding without ethics comes at acost’, Opinions,March 24). TheBesens areamong Australia’s greatest philanthropists and wonderful patronsofthe arts in this country.Inaddition, their business acumen has createdthousands of jobs forAustralians of all backgrounds.To suggest that the Besen Foundation is tied to “ongoing genocide in ancestoral (sic)Palestine”isantisemitism at its worst. If LaurenceAbou Khaterhad any decency he would find out about thetrue definition of genocide and learn whyIsrael wasestablished in 1948 in the ancestral Jewish homeland by legitimateUnited Nations action.

This year’sCSF has been agreat success and the Besen Family Foundation’s funding has undoubtedly helped to put the festival back on its feet.Weshould be celebrating and acknowledging this support,not spreading vile accusations and encouraging trendy and vacuousvirtue-signalling by wearing keffiyehs and watermelon earrings.

Youcampaignedfor this

Frank Sartore, Kyneton

To allthe “Just Stop Oil” enthusiasts, youare currently getting asmall tasteof whatwould happen if your ridiculous dream actually came true.Because oil prices areso

high and the shortages involved in fossil fuel supply,farmersare seriously considering whether or nottoplant crops. They might nothaveenough diesel to do the planting, theymightnot have enough fertiliser to feed the crops, and even if theydo, they maynot be able to harvest and then transport the crops. Youcan’t just slap asolar panel on topofthe tractor and continue on, so when food prices areridiculously high due to shortages or supply problems, just remember youcampaigned forthis. It takes ashock to wake some people up from theirslumber,but more people are realising the ridiculousness of your demands as lifebecomes harder and fuel becomes moreexpensiveand scarce.After 50 years of apocalypticpredictions (noneofwhich have ever come true), Iamsurprised anyone takes youpeople seriously.Bythe way, snowisfalling on the ski resorts, thepolar icecapshaven’t melted and the sea levels arethe same as theywere100 yearsago

Theremay be some upside,maybe you mightnot be able to afford to travel to your next protestand giveusall arest from your incessantwhining. That said, cans of soup arestill pretty cheap and thereare plenty of artworks youcan deface

Writers areasked to keep letters to a maximum of 300words. Longer letters may onlybepublished at the editor's discretion.

Names, addresses and contactphone numbers must be included for verification purposes.

Email letters to: acrawford@midnews.com.au

Preparenow for waterrestrictions

Coliban Waterhas warned that much-needed rain, including 62mm at keystoragesnear Kyneton in recent weeks, hasdone little to top-up theregion’s water supplies.

4.

Coliban Watermanaging director, Damian Wells, said alack of ground moisture in the region’s catchments meantthe rain soaked into the ground andstarted to fill farm dams, but did notdeliver enough run-off to shift storagelevels in ameaningful way.

“While good news forfarmers, parks, gardens and fire-affected areas, our combined storages remain at 57 per cent capacity (asofMarch 10), while Coliban Water’sshareof LakeEppalocksits at 29 per cent capacity," he said.

“The dry conditions areplacing continued pressureonthe water supply across our whole region, compounded by reduced inflows aftermorethantwo yearsofbelow averagerainfall, ahot summer that increased demand to record levels, and longer-term changes to climate patterns.

“Two yearsago,our combined storagelevels were at 88 per cent at the sametime of year,demonstrating the dramatic changeina relatively short period."

Coliban Watertypically receives its biggest inflows during winterand spring, but for2025/26 storages so faronly received 12,700 megalitres compared to the long-term median of 28,600 megalitres.

TheBureau of Meteorologyis nowpredicting lower-than-average rainfall andwarmer temperatures forautumn 2026.

“Inaddition to our drought preparedness plans and longerterm investmentinwater efficiency projects, we’reasking all customers

to do their part to help conserve water,” Mr Wellssaid.

“Given the ongoing dry conditions and ourcurrent resource position, likeother watercorporations around thestate we arecurrently preparing the communityfor water restrictions if our position does not improve overwinter andspring."

Mr Wellsadded thatColiban Water’surban customerswerealso being urgedtofollowthe state’s PermanentWater Saving Rules and act nowtoconservewater

“Details of Victoria’sPermanent WaterSaving Rules and other strategies to help peoplebemorewater consciousare setout on ourwebsite.Weknowsimple measureslike keeping showers to four minutes, only washingfullloads, checking for leaking tap fittings, onlywatering gardensbetween 6pm and 10am, and notwatering hard surfaces add up to abig difference.

“The reality is declining levels in the region’s water storagesare areminder thatevery drop counts. We areapproaching levels where we mayneed to consider water restrictions next summer if adequate rainfalland run-off is notreceived over winter andspring.”

Waterrestrictions were last in forceinthe Coliban Waterregion in 2011.

Warblers headtoNational Folk Festival

TheWoodend Warblersare excited to be heading to theNational Folk Festival in Canberrafor performances over Easter

Under the leadership of Andrew Price, the local communitychoir of morethan 50 membershas learnta rangeofsongs singing in four-part harmony.

Themost exciting part of the festival forthe choir is participating in theInfiniteSong Contest. Soloists, duosand groupsperform asong from the 60s and from the manyheats,

those mostappreciatedperform in the final on Easter Monday.Morethan 2000 music enthusiasts will judgethe final winner.Let's hope it'sthe Warblers!

Thechoirmembersare proud to be representing centralVictoria, and aresuretoput on ashowinCanberra.

Locals with or without singing experience arewelcometojoin the choir.Itmeets on Wednesdayevenings at 7pm at the Norma Richardson Hall in Woodend (after Easter).

Call to revisit Victoria’s driving age

Member forNorthern Victoria Gaelle Broad has renewedcalls forthe state governmenttoreducethe probationary driving ageto17, in line with every other state and territory in Australia.

Speaking in Parliament, Ms Broad said the currentminimum ageof18was out of step withthe rest of the country and placed unnecessary pressureonregional families.

Shesaidthe lack of public transport in manyregional communities meant young people relied heavily on their families fortransport to work, playsport and go to training "Itisa common story thatIhaveheardfromfamilies

Let’sGowith Andy Griffiths

Newly appointedAustralian Children’s Laureate Andy Griffiths is bringing imagination, adventure and alittle chaos to KynetonTownHall foraninteractiveevent celebrating his brand-newbook Let’s Go.Perfect forthe young and young at heart, this high-energy session invites audiences to discover the magic of storytelling with plentyoflaughs along the way. It's on Thursday, April 9, at 2pm.

across northern Victoria and across the state," Ms Broad said.

"Some liveonfarms wheretheir kids have been driving foryears, otherswanttotakeupanapprenticeship but need alicencetoget there."

Ms Broad urgedthe Minister to consider driver training incentives in other stateslikeNew South Wales and the St John driver first aid programinthe ACT.

"Asa parentofthree kids who all noware on P-plates andsomeone whose family knows the painoflosinga lovedone on the road,Iamaware of the risks and the

Easter market

RM Begg KynetonAgedCare's Easter craftmarketisonSaturday, April 4, from 9am to 1pm.

Market-goerscan expect to find babygifts, knit wear,beanies, scarves, rugs, toys,cakes, jams, sauces and books. Themarket will be held at theRMBeggAgedCare car park at Epping Street,Kyneton. Eftpos is available.

responsibility we all have at anyage to drivesafelyevery time we getbehind awheel. Butthis restriction on the driving age, which isuniquetoVictoria, needs to change

"Itisalsoworth noting thatinVictoria youcan geta full marine licenceat16yearsofage and youcan geta private pilotlicenceatage 17. In Victoria changeislong overdue, andIurgethe minister to bringVictoria into line with every other state andreducethe minimumdriving ageto17."

Last year Ms Broad sponsored apetition on theP-plate driving age, which highlightedstrong communitysupport forthe proposal.

TheWoodend Warblers during aperformanceatBolobek Gardens in 2025.

TUESDAY,MARCH 31

Tyson McGrath turns6

THURSDAY,APRIL 2

Charlotte RaeEdwards .turns 12

SATURDAY,APRIL 4

ClancyPortelli turns 1

SUNDAY,APRIL 5

RileyPeters. .turns 13

NAME(PRINT)

ADDRESS.......

DATE OF BIRTH

PARENT/GUARDIAN

Covering the Macedon Ranges and MountAlexander Shires

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

KYNETON

3MarketSt., PO Box153,Kyneton, 3444

Telephone: (03) 5422 1488

Facsimile: General (03) 5422 3173

CASTLEMAINE

13 HargravesSt., PO Box227, Castlemaine, 3450

Telephone: (03) 5472 1788

Facsimile: (03) 5472 4504

OFFICE HOURS

MondaytoFriday9.00 am-5.00 pm

HOURS

MondaytoFriday8.30 am-5.00 pm

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

TuesdayIssue:Booking andCopy—

Each year,MountAlexander ShireCouncil’sLocal Laws officers return dozens of lost pets directly to theirowners– from adventurous Alfies and Frankies to curious Figs and Merlins.

“Ifyour catordog goes missing or wandersawayfromhome, youhaveamuch better chanceofthem being returned if theyare registered,”said RonMedler,council’scoordinatorofcommunitysafetyand amenity

“Keeping your pet’sregistration up to date is an easyway to look afterbothyouranimal and the wider community.

“Pet registration is asimple step that can makea big difference. It helpsour local laws officersrespond quickly when reuniting pets withtheir owners– whether that’sa wandering Tilly or abold Barney– anditsupports services thatkeep ourshared spaces clean and safe.”

Petregistration is arequirementunder the Victorian Government’sDomestic Animals Act, which requires petownerstoregister their cats and dogs with their local council. People who have notregistered their pets risk receiving afine, so council encourages residents to do the rightthing and ensuretheir pets areregistered.

Animal registration is due on April 10 each year

Local Laws officers will be out and about across the shirepromoting responsible pet ownership, including keeping dogs on leads and carrying dogpoo bags when out in public places.

Ronsaidthatwhile the serious work of animal safety came first, he did enjoyseeing all the wild and wonderful names people gave their pets when theyregistered them.

“It’sclear howmuch these pets meantotheir families,”hesaid.

Petownersare encouraged to renewtheir pet’sregistration online at:www.mountalexander.vic.gov.au/Register-your-pet.Those who need assistancecan contactcouncil on 5471 1700.

Lifeline calls forvolunteers

Lifeline Loddon Mallee is calling on caring community membersfromBendigoand surrounds to consider becoming Crisis Supporter volunteers.

They arecurrently holding online Volunteer Information Sessions forthose keen to learn moreabout volunteering.

Thesessions arescheduled fortoday, TuesdayMarch 31 at 10am and Thursday April 9at1pm.The sessions arethe first step in joining Lifeline’s accredited volunteer training program.

“Our volunteersare at the heart of who we are,”said Lisa Renato,CEO of Lifeline Loddon Mallee.

“Every call represents aperson in distress, and our region needs moretrained

Community groupsinGuildfordare encouraged to apply forfunding through Coliban Water’slatestround of Community Rebates.

Theprogram provides financial support forlocal projects in towns whereservice has notmet expected standards.

Executivemanager of customer and stakeholder experience,Lauren McLean, said the rebateswereanimportantway of recognising the impact serviceissues could have on customers.

“Fromunexpectedsupply interruptions to waterquality concerns, we know these events canbedisruptivefor the people who rely on us every day,” Ms McLean said.

“Our Community Rebatesprogram is

volunteerstoensurenoone facestheir darkest moments alone.”

Lifeline Loddon Mallee provides crisis support across the Loddon and Mallee regions, operating acall centre in Bendigo and aphone hub in Mildura. Volunteers complete accredited online training and join acaring, community-led team committed to supporting people experiencing emotional crisis, suicidal thoughts, family stress or loneliness.

Register to attend by calling 03 5406 0506, via the link on the LifelineLoddon Mallee Facebook page or visit www.lifelinelm.com/volunteer

Forcrisis support at anytime, call Lifeline on 13 1114.

one wayweacknowledgethose occasions by helping fund projects thatdeliver lasting value to thebroader community.”

In this round, eligible groups Guildford can apply forupto$6000.

Ms McLean said the programcontinued to highlightthe strength and resilienceof local communities.

“Each funding round highlights the outstanding work of community organisations, oftenundertaken behind the scenes and driven by genuine commitment. We areproud to support initiatives thatdeliver meaningful outcomes and encourage all eligible groups to apply,”she said. Applications close MondayApril 20, with successfulrecipients to be announced on MondayMay 11.

This year’smostpopularregistered petnames fordogsare:Alfie, Angus,Bonnie, Daisy, Frankie, Lola, Ruby,Till, andWinnie. Forcatsthe preferred names areBarney, Fig,Kelvin, Lilly,Merlin, Queenie and Teddy

MIDLAND Property &Living

Prominently positioned on thecorner of Hargravesand Forest Streets, this high-profile property presents an exceptional opportunitytoowner-occupywhile benefiting from an established income stream. Offeredwith vacantpossession to the mainpremises, the propertyformspartofthe historic Commercial Hotelfootprintand features impressive high ceilings and striking arched windows across twosides. Spanning approximately 63m², the spaceisfilled withnaturallightand offers flexibility forretail, studio or workshop use.

Adding further appeal, the adjoining tenancy is securely leased to thewell-established SuperheroBanh Mi Vietnamese Takeaway,providing reliable income and provenreturns. Locatedwithin one of Castlemaine’s most tightly held and vibrantprecincts, thepropertyenjoys strong foot and vehicle traffic, just moments from TheatreRoyal, Love ShackBrewery, Table Records, Tortoise Café andIGA Arareopportunity to securea versatile commercial holding with both immediate income and long-term potential.

MIDLAND Property &Living

Classic brick home on rare 3200sqm lot

Oneofthe neighbourhood’soriginal homes, this classic, solid, brick veneer residenceprovides the ideal foundation forfamilies looking to create their dream lifestyle. Neat,tidy and in largely original condition, the homecan be comfortably enjoyedasitis, while also offering exciting potential forthose wishing to modernise and add their ownpersonal style.

Set on agenerous 3200 squaremetre allotment–anincreasingly rare find –the property offers exceptional spaceand flexibility.With blocks of this sizebecoming harder to secure,6 PeakeCourt stands outfor its expansivegrounds and excellentvehicle and storageoptions, including acarport, asubstantial 6m x8mshed and an additional 4.5m x4.5m shed -perfect forvehicles, toolsorhobbies.

Built in the1990s, the home features threewell-proportioned bedrooms, all with built-in robes. Alight-filled open planliving and dining area flows seamlessly to alarge coveredalfresco, creating an inviting spacefor year-round entertaining. Agenerous rumpus room adds valuable extraliving space, ideal forgrowing families.

Thekitchen features warm timber cabinetry with excellentstorage, gas cookingand a

return island bench, perfect forcasual meals and everydaygathering. Thecentral bathroom includes both ashowerand bathtub and offers ample spacefor apotential future reconfiguration to incorporateanensuitetothe main bedroom.

Comfort is ensured year-round with gas heating and ducted evaporativecooling, while eco-conscious additions include a14-panel solar systemand heatpump hotwater service.

Open forinspection: Saturday April 4at10.30-11am.

Property: Brickveneer familyhome on large allotment

Address: 6PeakeCourt, Ascot

Price: $660,000 –$680,000

Agent: Property Plus

Contact: Nathan Diss 0448 010057

MIDLAND Property &Living

History, spaceand lifestyle

Space, serenity andviews

There'sacertain kind of peaceyou onlyfind in the country,aquiet, grounding rhythm thatgently replaces the rush of everyday life

Setacross agenerous 4117m² of useable land and offering views of pasture and rolling hills from the front,thisiswhere spacebecomes something youtruly experience. Mornings begin with softlightstretching across the landscape, the sound of birdsong drifting through the air,and asense that the dayaheadisyours to shape.

Thehome itself sits comfortably within itssurroundings, as though it has alwaysbelonged. Four light-filled, spacious bedroomsprovide the perfect retreatfor every member of the family,with the main bedroom boasting an ensuite and walkin robe. Theheart of the home, the kitchen, sitsatthe central

hub,offering abundantstorage,generous bench space, and a seamless flowtothe expansivecovered alfresco, perfectfor relaxedindoor-outdoor living.

Thehome provides three distinctliving zones, catering to everymood and occasion. Themainliving room sits toward the frontofthe home, welcoming guests with warmth and character.A casual family room adjoinsthe open family/meals spacenexttothe kitchen and provides anatural hub fordaily lifeand gatherings.

Outside, the land offers freedom in its purest form. There's good sizedshed forstorage,achickencoopwith run, and plenty of room forchildren or animals to roam. Whether you'retending agarden, enjoying asunnyafternoon,orsimply soaking in the space, this propertyevolves withyou

Set privately on 3191sqm in the tightly held Pond precinct and backing directly onto CrownLand, this beautifully restored 1860s miner'scottageoffersararecombination of history,space and lifestyle, just an easywalk from Maldon's town centre

Full of character and thoughtfully renovated, the home retains its classic gabled roofline, wide verandahs and original timber features, nowcomplemented by awarm and sophisticated interior.Inside, the light-filled living and dining area is both inviting and functional, complete with custom cabinetry,while the updated kitchen features a900mm cooker and qualityfinishes, making it well suited to both everydayliving and entertaining.

Thehome includes twobedrooms, highlightedbya stylish main bedroom, along with acleverly combined bathroom and laundry thathas been designed to makeexcellentuse of thespace. Adding to the flexibility of the property is aseparatesecond dwelling with its ownensuite, ideal forguest accommodation, extended family,astudio, or potential rental use.

Outside, theestablished gardens create apeaceful and privatesetting, with multiple alfrescoareas to sit, entertain or simply enjoy the surroundings. Thereare severalgarden sheds providing excellentstorage and workspace, and the propertyisconnected to town services and has solar panels, offering conveniencealongside its historic charm and natural surrounds.

Property: Restored 1860s miner’scottage Address: 11 BaxterStreet, Maldon

Price: $895,000

Agent: Belle Property Contact: BlasiMulholland 0417 311 733 RobWaller 0418 571130

Property: Spaciousfamily home on one acre

Belle Property Castlemaine and Maldon.

42 Hornsby Street, Maldon.

3 a 2 b 3 v 3946r

• Charming 1940s Art Deco home on 0 97 acres with stunning garde and outdoor spaces

• 3 bedrooms, elegant interiors, fireplaces, and light-filled living

• Peaceful semi-rural setting with solar, workshop/double garage, clo to shops

For Sale

$795,000 View Saturday 4th April: 11:30am-12:00pm

Rob Waller | 0418 571 130

Blasi Mulholland | 0417 311 733

25B Moscript Street, Campbells Creek.

4 a 2 b 5 v 981r

• Elevated 981sqm home with sweeping Mount Franklin and countryside views from living areas, balcony, and master suite

• Flexible two-level layout with 4 bedrooms, multiple living zones, rumpus room, and indoor-outdoor entertaining

• Landscaped gardens, solar, double glazing, garage and carport

For Sale

$785,000 View Saturday 4th April: 10:30am-11:00am

Rob Waller | 0418 571 130

Blasi Mulholland | 0417 311 733

7/3 Maldon Road, Castlemaine.

2 a 1 b 2 v 269r

• Low-maintenance brick townhouse just 4 minutes from Castlemain town centre, ideal for downsizers or investors

• 2 bedrooms, light-filled open living, quality kitchen, and split-syste comfort

• Private courtyard, lock-up garage and landscaped gardens

For Sale

$615,000 View

As advertised

Blasi Mulholland | 0417 311 733

Narelle Waller | 0408 571 131

MIDLAND Property &Living

Tucked away at the end of aquiet court, this five-acre retreatdeliversthe kind of easy, modern country living people move to Woodend for. Private, peaceful and beautifully updated, it is ahome that feels instantly welcoming. Thoughtfully modernised while still retaining asense of warmth, thefloorplan has been designed with families, guests and multigenerational living in mind. Four generous bedrooms enjoyleafy garden and bushland views from every window. Twomaster suites, both with walk-in robes and privateensuites, sit at opposite ends of the home, offering the perfect layout forguests, teenagersorextended family.A separatestudy provides flexibility fora nursery,home office or quietretreat

Theopen plan kitchen, dining and living area is the heart of the home, surrounded by nativebirdlifeand lush established gardens. Awood firesetsthe tone forcosywinter

Secluded country living with abeautifulmodern finish Charmingperiodhome with exceptional shedding

nights, supported by split system heating and cooling foryear round comfort.The contemporary kitchen includes awalk-in butlerspantry,excellentbenchspace and modern appliances, making everyday living and entertaining wonderfully easy.

Outdoor living is just as inviting. Thelarge undercover deck overlooks the privateback garden and is ideal foryear round gatherings, while the sunsoakedfront verandah is the perfect spotfor apeaceful morning coffee as the bushland wakesaround you.

Forthose wanting spacetocreate, storeorescape, the property includes apowered workshop shed with its own wood fire, ideal as astudio, workshop or teenageretreat, along with astable complexready forhorses or hobbyfarm pursuits. Practicalinclusions such as double glazing, solar hot water, town water and reliable internetfurther enhancethe ease of living.

The Roof Restoration Warehouse is the vision of Ben Brundin, aroofer who started as a16year old apprenticewith ahammer,aroof and abig dream. By the time he was19, Ben wasalready leading ateam of roofers on newhomes across Melbourne.At23, he launched his owncompany, employing up to eight tradesmen and working with some of the city’sbiggestbuilders.

Afteryears of hands-on work and overseeing major storm restoration projects as astate manager forone of Australia’slargestinsuranceroofing companies, Ben returned to Melbourne determined to build something of his ownabusinesswherequality,trust, and good servicecame first.

That vision became TheRoof Restoration Warehouse in 2015.And in 2022, the business expanded to include aCommercial division specialising in height-safety roof access and fall protection systems —serving residential, strata, and large-scale property clients acrossVictoria.

Lola Gladys

We have loving memories of Lola who was avery good friend, always caring and kind. We’ll miss her interesting stories and the many good laughs.

Deepest condolences to James

Always Loved Always Remembered

Richard 9.11.1927 -3.4.2020

Asilent thought asilent tear Keeps your memory ever near

Your loving wife Stella Loved father of Shirley father in law of Rodney Loved grandfather of Richie and Em, Ash and Wendy, Owen, Michael and Maria Loved great grandfather of Bridie We will always love

IMPORTANT NOTICE

DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL!

The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful foranadvertiser to showany intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy,race, age,marital status,political or religious belief or activity,industrial activity,parental or carer status, physical features,disability,lawful sexual activity/ sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with aperson with one of the above 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 notaccept advertisements that appear to break the law. Formore information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission. KN282169

Employment

•Emergency Management Coordinator, Full time

•RecoveryCoordinatorCommunity, Part time

•Administration Support Officer –Community Recovery, Part time

•Business Support Officer –Bushfire Recovery, Part time

Learn more: mountalexander.vic.gov.au or phone54711700.

Working together for ahealthy, connected shire

Published Thursday,April 2

Booking deadlines

Classifieds -Tuesday,March 31 (by 5pm)

General -Monday March 30 (by 10am)

Published Wednesday,April 8

Booking deadlines

Classifieds -Thursday,April 2(by 5pm)

-Tuesday,March 31 (by 10am)

Kyneton: 5422 1488 |Castlemaine 5472 1788

Engagement, • Wedding classifieds@midnews.com.au

In Memoriam

AKAI vintage floor speakers, $250 the pair. Original BENTWOOD chairs (2), as is. Restoration project. $100ea. 0417 324 600.

•CanopiesandAwnings

•RoofRacks&Drawers

•BigBoreExhausts

•RearProtectionBars

205MollisonStKyneton PH54222211

Advertise your pre loved items in the Midland Express and reach over 50,000 readersevery week.

Kyneton |5422 1488

Castlemaine |5472 1788

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CLASSIFIEDS Phone: 5422 1488 or 5472 1788

WHEELS DEALS

4weeks -10% discount

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52 weeks -30% discount

Phone: 54221488

Email:classifieds@midnews.com.au

ChrisO'Toole 5422 3573 Gardening

Large or small Cut and/or reshaped.

HOLDEN CAPTIVA 7seater,turbo diesel. RWCEC.133,000kms genuine sale, roof racks, tow bar Reg 1JQ40K Priced to sell. $9250 Ph: 0409 544 063

Handyman

Experienced Handyman

Respectful, Careful and Thorough. Inc. Painting, Gardening, Small Reno's, Landscaping Call Blair: 0407 554 322

Auto, diesel. Brand new tyres 180,000 KMS 8months rego: 2BP7CH

$15,500 neg Ph 0401 540 000

Leitner“Libelle” 20”, step-thru folding E-Bike, 250w,12 speed,50kmrange, includes chargers, brand new,$990 ea. Ph 0409 021 842 ELECTRIC BIKES x2

EVERNEW POPUP 17FT VGC 1999

Hardly used, stylish interior.Incl awning, new annex, raised susp plus extras. Reg: N42668

$19,000 Ph: 0417 324 600

VISCOUNTAIROLITE Caravan.Easytotow 880kg,solar12vsystem, fullannexe,greatfor camping,lotsofextras. Reg:Dec.’26N82248, Pricedforquicksale, $5,999.Ph:44066600

Kyneton: 5422 1488 or Castlemaine: 5472 1788

Advertise it for 4weeks in the Midland Express and CastlemaineMail

8Ads - Colour Photo - 20 words - Over 50,000 readers every week Kyneton 5422 1488 Castlemaine 54721788 eds@midnews.com.au from$75

Dramatic pennant win

In an action-packedGolf CentralVictoria pennantfinal, KynetonGolf Club's division 3team foughtbacktoclinchvictory on the firstextrahole play-off

Pennantvictories don't come easily,and this success wasa real fillip forthe club, from the top down.

Thefivedivisional finals were played at Neangar Park, with fivedifferentclubs ending up as winners.

Former AFL and Kynetonfootballer,Nathan Thompson, madeabig recovery from 4-down to win 2-up, lifting the side's spirits against Bendigo White.

Bighitting Kylie Munrowas in superb form, with her matchhighlightbeing ahole in one on the second when her opponent'stee shothad ended a metrefromthe pin.

Sheended with a3-2 victory playing at number 2.

Thewhole outcome forKynetonrested with rested Simon Rosenbergwho had finished all square.

Retaining his composure, Rosenbergparred the 19th hole and sparked jubilation in the Kyneton camp,including caddies and spectators

David Ryan and TimKirk were the other team members, and theyhad playedastrongrole in their side making the final

Other division scores were Div. 1—Belvoir Park lost to Neangar Park 2-3; Div. 2— Axedale d Neangar Park Gold 3-2; Open A— Castlemaine lost to Belvoir Park 1.5-3.5; Open B— BendigoGold d Belvoir Park Green 3-2.

Thefirst round of Mondaypennantbegins on April 13, withKynetontoplayAxedale in the top division.

CASTLEMAINE

Thereweresomeoutstanding scores in Saturday'sstableford,withLachlanBrown (5) compiling 41 points to be theoverall and Agrade winner.

Hisround featured an eagle and twobirdies, with Teja Liebteru (8) runner-upon38. Garry Rotteveel(14)also impressed with41 in B-grade, threeclear of visitor GeoffCaldwell. JanBarratt(23) continued hergood form in C-gradewith40points,Graeme Beith(24)edgingout Tony Strong andJamiesonPrendergast forthe runner-up prize.

NTPswenttoLaurie Hardingand Jarrod Trethowan.

Theearly nine-hole eventsaw Liz Denniston (14) winning the countback from Julie Cross (16) afterbothcarded 20 points. Thursday's stableford producedtightfinishes in both grades.

RobOxner(14)had 38 foroverall and Agrade awards, oneclear of PeterMcCoombe (5)

In B-grade, PeterVerlaan (15) returned37 with Trevor Bray runner-upon36.

Gavin Lang claimed both NTPs GISBORNE

Only 89 golfers, including threewomen, braved wetconditionsonSaturday, which madeitanintegratedOpen Competition.

AmieBaker decided to show whygolf is the most equalsport in theworld,with thebest scoreofthe dayand winning C-grade with 39 points.

Maybethis is the start of the newera, wheregolferscompete in the same competition irrespectiveofhow manyX and Ychromosomes areonthe course on acertainday,just likethe Open competitions during theweek.

Goodbyegenderexclusivity:full competition integration has arrived.

Other winners were Neighboursstar, Jason Ramsay, in A-grade and theBuddhist, Ben Monk, in B-grade.Bothhad 37 points.

On Thursday,inthe regular open competitionwhere men andwomen compete together, SausageKingand putting expertFrank Manago took out A-grade with 38 points. Free sausages at CountryGourmet Meatsthisweek

David Tyquin wonthe B-grade with42 pointsand John Gamwell Responsivelytook

Town &District

GOLF results

outC-grade with 38 points. LuckyJohn is preparedtolose more than he wins.

Therewere34entrantsinthe women’s par eventwithJoMcPhee winning A-grade with an impressive +7,and Ruth Wilkinsonwon B-grade with +4

Thenew nine-hole competition willbegin on Wednesday, April 8, at 11am.

KYNETON

Theannual Kyneton vTrentham Challenge wasplayedlastTuesday, with theTrentham visitorsgaining the trophybyless than apoint —30.85 to 29.89.Soclose!

Therewere39womenplaying, 20 from Trentham and 19 from the host club

Julie Bartholomew(20)won A-grade for Trentham with 39 points, from SueHoward (15)on35. Valme Smoors (27)35and Tracey Bramich(17)34wereKyneton's best

TheB-grade winnerfor Trenthamwas Irene Kozicz(42) on 38, from Anne McKeon (31) on 33. Kynetoncaptain Jane Stanley led the wayfor her side with40, from president Grace Parkinson(28)on35.

NTPs were Julie McKellarand LizTurangfor Kyneton, andMaryHalstead and PamBurton forTrentham

In theDrummond Golf Stableford on Saturdayonlyfiveof53players overcame cold, damp and windy conditions to matchtheir handicaps.

Unshackled from his usual partners, Noel Alldis(19) scored on every hole and birdied the lasttwo for39points and afive-shotvictory in C-grade. Jarrod Lee(21) wasrunner-up.

Ross Foreman (14) could seethe path to success afterlaser treatment, losing the glasses andtopping B-grade with38points after21on the backnine.Another injury-list player, Ivan Smolcic (18), scored 20 overthe last eightholes to be runner-up on 36

A-grade wasupfor grabs until thelastshot, Namik Akkurt(7) winning with36, one ahead of JasonMcClure (7). Denise Murphy (16) wasbestofthe women with 29 points,and NTPswereSimon Rosenberg, Barb Grant, Shaun Neeson, Terry Gamble and MatHodgkiss (also superpin).

Akkurtfinished apointshy of back to back Wednesdaywins, with Castlemaine's Norm Bellis having twobirdies on his last threeholes

to win with 36 points.

Julie McKellar (27)was best of the women, and NTPswereDavid Pilcher,Akkurt, Bellis Foremanand Grant

In Thursday's nine-hole scrambleoff white tees, NevilleYates birdied the last afterdriving thegreen to win afour-way countback on 17 points from Jason Swinden, Jason Bloodworth and Gamble LANCEFIELD

Some excellentscoreswererecorded in the past week,and BarryFlentjar is nowfavourite to claim thetwilight series crown. SteveGilbert is hotonhis heels

KenMurchison(33)excelledinSaturday's stablefordwith 44 points, from Todd Lambert (6) on 36, and Gavin Winwood(16)thirdwith 35

Legends par: Stewart Stevens (26)+3, from PeterMcGill (10)and Dean Budde (11)both+1. Women'sCanadian foursomes: Fran Beard–Janine Notman82, from SheenaFlentjar –Lyn Murchison 83.5. Leanne Jeffrey wasNTP Twilightpoints: Athree-way tie on 20 betweenConnor Irving,DaveBentley and Barry Flentjar

MOUNT MACEDON

Runawaywinners in themidweek 4BBB were JennySvendsen(26)and RobBeatson (20) with 49 points

Therewas quiteacontrast between the inward and outwardnines as early holes were impactedbyrain before greens returned to normal JezzaClare(20)and Mike Smitheram (23) were runners-upon43.

Brian Freestone (16)— BrianCollins (22) and Mike Hoiles(22)— Tony Carter (10) had42.

Areminder that pennantcompetition will close the course on both April 12 and 19 ROMSEY

It wasmonthly medal week with JaredBeswickthe Saturdaywinner, and JennyHartley successful on Wednesday.

In asmall field on Saturdaysomegoodgolf wasrequired to win, with Beswick's87-15-72a shot better than MalMottram's 82-9-73. Good to seeDanielWrightback in action, with his 76-2-74earning thirdplace.

Wrighthad theleastputts (27) andMottram wasNTP

In the midweek stroke eventHughWilliamsreturned93-18-75 andwas NTP.

As well as having theleast putts, Hartley 101-24-77 edged out Kath Jekabsons 11235-77 on acountback.

In the first Sundayround of pennantthe scratch team went down 3-2 to Broadford; team captain Dylan Harris andDean Kohler wontheir matches

Thehandicap side lost 4-1,withcongratulations going to Colin Thomas on winning hisfirst match forthe club.

TRENTHAM

Cool, wetand alittlebit miserable was one definition of whatcompetitorsencounteredonSaturday.

Men'sA-grade: Steven O'Hagan (7)35 points, from LiamMurray(6); B—Steve Perry(18)36, from Tony Donovan(12)35; C— PeterGainey(25) 34, from Mark Myers (19) 31.

Thewomen playedthe first round of the JimMcCormack Memorial, with Alexandra Evered (14)returning35points, four clearof Alison Borchers (12).

WOODEND

Afield of 48 turned out on Saturday, with the club hosting second round pennant matchesonSunday.

Stephen Roberts (3) included an eagle on the 16th on his wayto40pointsinA-grade, with PoppaLong(7) runner-up on 38 Robert Darling (20)had 41 to top Bgradebythree fromDean Rose (12).

Avery large fieldinthe midweek stablefordsaw Brendan Delaneythe winnerwith 38 points.

Woodend has sixsides in DDGA pennantthis season, and they achieveda 50/50 result in theopening round Division1scratch won3-2 against Alexandra, and therewas a4-1 victoryover Trentham in scratch second division.

Open division 1handicap lost 0-5 to Hidden Valley, restricted div.1beatHidden Valley3-2, and the other twosides went down to Broadfordand Kilmore.

Debutantsmade an impactwithMitch Ramanauskas,LyamMurray, Kobe Veitch and KelseyWilliamscongratulatedontheir individual wins

Victorious Kynetonteam (fromleft)— Nathan Thompson, David Ryan, Simon Rosenberg, Kylie Munro, TimKirk.

Runthe Maine2026 launched

Runthe Maine held aspecial eventatBoomtown Winery and Bistro last Tuesdayevening to launchtheir 2026 fundraising campaign.

This year Runthe Maine will celebrateits 18th edition!

To mark this special milestone, the committee held an inaugural launch eventtorecognise the community thatmakes this eventpossible and unveil the committee's vision for2026. On thenight, sponsors, supportersand guests heardfromracedirector GavinKrasner and the dedicated RTMCommittee about whytheysupport the event.

Those in attendancealso enjoyedanaddress by Dhelkaya Health CEO SueRacewho thanked the hardworking committee, dedicatedpool of volunteersand community forthe fundsraised overthe last 17 years.

Ms Race spokeabout someofthe items and projects that the health organsiation had been able to purchase and complete thanks to RTM's contribution. These have included aBiPAP machine forpatients with respiratory issues; exercise equipmentfor the Rehabilitation Centre;a SOZO machine forthe Lymphoedema Clinic; and in 2025 funds towards the establishmentofa Children's Therapeutic Playground.

Theaudiencealso heardfromraceambassadorsabout their passion forrunning andreasons forsupporting thecommunity event, andsponsorswho areproud to partner with Runthe Maine.

Mr Krasner said the eveningwas agreat chancetoreflect on what theyhad achievedtogether —and wheretheywereheaded next.

"Asweapproach our 18th edition, we’reaiming higher than ever building on the $300,000 raised forour localhealth serviceand setting the pacefor our biggest year yet,"hesaid.

Runthe Maine 2025 wasa record-breaking eventwith almost 1200 participants and astaggering $50,000 raised forDhelkaya Health. Let'shelp Runthe Maine team smash their targetin2026! Super Early Bird registrations open on April 11. Visit runthemaine.orgfor more details.

Bakerclaimscup

Leading up to its 150th anniversary in November this year,the KynetonCroquet Club, theoldest croquetclub in Australia, has been ahiveofactivity. As well as repainting the original 1929 Clubhouse and surrounds, therehas been plenty of activity on the courts too.

Asix-week U3A course, 'AnIntroduction to Croquet',was provided by club members, and already twoparticipants have signed up as full members of the club, with more pending.The course is certainly agood start to thetacticsand basic skills of playing croquet, but anyone interested in having atry can just come along anyplaying day (Mon, Wed, Sat -1pm for1.30pmstart) and be sureofa warm reception.

TheClub Championshipsfor this anniversary year have also just been completed, and it wasvery competitiveinboth divisions.

In Division 1, playing forthe prestigious John Teed Cup, LenBaker and Damien Hadfield were both undefeated going into the final round, wheretheyplayedeach other,effectively the final. Theresult went rightdowntothe final hoop.Locked at 6-6 hoops, Lenmanaged to gethis ball into the hoop, and Damien wasunable to knock it out or jump over it,making it a7-6 win to Len.

Lenwon the club championshipsseveral times in thepast, butthatwas before Damien, acurrentVictorian representative player, came along and dominatedthe Club Champs. So avery sweetreturn to form for Len, who is also thecurrent club president.

In Division 2, both David Lairdand Sue Chiversweretied on six wins going into the final round. However, even though David beat Sueby7-6 hoops in their head-to-head game, which wasSue's only loss, David had lost an earlier game by 4-7, meaning thatSue wonthe Championship by just twohoops on countback. Congratulations to Sue. It wasvery pleasing to seeseveral of the newerclub membershaving ashotatthe Division 2Champs (and winning games). It wasa good chancefor them to makeall their owntactical decisions, rather than rely on an experienceddoubles partner.A big shoutout to Ken, Pamand Elaine. Thenews wasn't all bad forDavid Lairdthough –hesincewentontoqualify as theDivision 3Rep forthe Northern District CroquetAssociation, to playinthe Victorian Regional Championship at Cairnlea in April. Good luck, David.

Last Thursday, Kynetonhosted acroquetteam from Golden Square, Bendigo, fora HiLoSocial Day.The lowest handicap playerfromKynetonwas paired with the highest from Golden Square, and so on, resulting in

eightteams of similar combined handicaps, eachwith aplayerfrombothclubs. Splitintotwo round robin groups, JennySymonds (Kyn)and LynBreen (GS) were undefeated in Group Awith three wins. In GroupB,it wasmuch tighter, going down to thelastgameplayed. Darry Chivers(Kyn) and KathyMontgomery(GS) were ahead by twohoops, but David Laird(Kyn) and Nigel Gaul (GS) hada strong last round win 7-3, and so won the group by just one hoop. David and Nigelthen went on to playJennyand Lyninthe final, and in another cliffhanger,won it by 7-6 hoopsina very close match. It wasa greatday,playedingreat spirit, with greathospitality,onceagain reinforcing the welcoming natureof this historic club.

TheKynetonCroquetClubalso recently hosted two sessions forthe local Scoutsand Cubs, providing some interesting times and enthusiastic playfor all involved, includingthe adultleaders. TheCubs team, which beat their twoleaders, were certainly excited about the result!

Winners for Sell,Dyer

Local trainersMick Sell and Neil Dyer produced winners at Kynetonand Hanging Rock RacingClub'sspecialCommunity Race Day meeting on Saturday.

The1860and Lancefield HotelCup over1864 metres waswon by the Sell-trained five-year-old Patsy'sStar,ridden by Neil Farley

Starting as a$6chanceafter running fourth at theprevious Kynetonmeeting,Patsy's Star settled back in the field and made asustained run to hit the frontearly in the straight.

Much to thedelightofmany locals (thereare 14 including four Sell family members in theownership group), Patsy's Star carried 59kgand fought on strongly to win by threequarters of alengthfrom Avonview.

With fivewins from 28 starts, Patsy'sStar has now taken her earnings to overthe $100,000 mark Racing took placeona soft 5rating track, withthe rail out from the800m mark and in the straight.

TOPTRAINING

EFFORT

Neil Dyer hasbeen a Kyneton-based fora very long time, and has earned areputation of being able to produce first-upwinners.

On Saturdayhedid this with four-year-old Rampazetto ($21) ridden by Dylan Dunn in the seventhand final event, the 1208m Carlton Draught0-56 Handicap. Rampazetto's previous runwas in the 2025 NorthernTerritory DerbyonJuly19 lastyear.Heran second in an Echuca jump outonMarch24. Thegalloper settled well, andran on to overhaul Queue Jumper in the last 20 metres. This wasRampazetto's second win from 14 starts, with earnings of $71,825.

On March22 the Dyertrained Theo Five,ridden by Jack Virgona,won at the Woolamai picnic meeting.

Virgona is aregular track rider forthe stable.

Theraceday at Kyneton wasalso an opportunityfor racegoerstosay 'Thank-You'to those who stepped up tohelp their communities during the destructiveJanuary fires, especially in the Harcourt area.

Winners of the Kyneton/ Golden SquareHiLoSocial Day, David Laird(L) and NigelGaul (R) arepresentedwith their winnings by Judy Aldred, KynetonCroquetClub vice-president.

Thehistoric Kynetoncourts were asea of blue last Thursday. Eventual winnersNigel Gaul plays another greatshot, watched by partner DavidLaird and their opposition

Bill West

Patsy’sStar ridden by Neil Farley wins the The1860 and LancefieldHotel CupatKyneton. Photo:Jay Town/Racing Photos

TheRun the Maine committee celebratethe launch of the 2026 eventatBoomtown Winery and Bistro.

Record numbers forKyneton netball

AmyHume

KynetonNetball Association has started its 2026 season with arecordnumber of players

PresidentDeanBackman said 130 players have signedonincluding the Net-Set-Goprogram andfor first time theyhavefive boys joiningthe U11s.

"With the Melbourne Vixens last year winning the premiership, it'sreally put netball in the spotlight,"hesaid.

It maybethe 'Vixens effect' drawing newplayers to the sport but Dean is sureits astrong sense of team andcommunity thatencourages them to stay.

"It'sgreat thatwe're have alot of growth in girls sports locally Thestart of the 2026 season has been really exciting and we're doing alot to build astrong and supportiveculture,"hesaid.

"I'm amassivebelieverthat sport teaches kids lessons they can takeintothe real world and experiences that they'll hopefully remember,for along time to come."

Dean is newtothe role of president, following asuccessful year of coaching settocontinue.

Hiswifeand four daughters are allactivemembersofthe club.

daughters playing in the Bloomfield, Garrigan andStephenson families.

Theclub runs aNet-Set-Go program forthe youngest beginnerstolearn the rules of the game and competition teams in U9, U11, U13and U16.

Players rangefromage five to 17, across seven different schools, and manyofthe older teensalsoplayinKynetonFootball NetballClub'scompetition.

Theclub is backedbymany dedicated volunteers, including four young womencoaching teams:year nine studentMilla, year 12 studentMatilda, Charlie and Jessica.

Dean said the club has had a good offseason and is positioned fora strong year

"We're coming offa season last year wherewehad six teamsmakefinals grand finals and threeofthe teams wonthe grand finals,"hesaid.

"We'vehad some great support from the local business community andthe club will support theminreturn."

Players have just received newuniforms and theclub aims to create moreteam-building events and to grow involvement with the broader community

This year theclub has two families of four daughters allplaying in the Young and Backman families, as well as at least three familieswith three

Theclub has madestrong connections with the local business community and has secured sponsorship support forthe new season

Tough initiation forRoos

Dating backto1890, Broadfordhas aproud footballing history,and another chapterbegan on Saturdaywhen the Kangaroos playedfor the first time in theBendigoLeague against South Bendigo.

In an extremely one-sided contest, the dominating visitorswon by a massive205 points.

SOUTH BENDIGO 32-26 (218) dBROADFORD 2.1 (13).

Therewas arangeofreactions afterwards at HarleyHammond Reserveafterwards, with the Roos determined theywould learn and improve as the season progresses.

BendigoFootball NetballLeague would have surely liked to have seen acloser contest, but awell-drilled South Bendigoshowednomercy

Thematch played came aftermonths of planning, recruiting and rebuilding both on and offthe field by Broadford.

"It'sbeen alongroad to gethere. Coming out of recess has notbeen easy, but the commitmentofour volunteers, playersand wider community has been incredible.

"Joining the BNFLgives us afantastic platform to rebuild sustainability," dedicated presidentBonnie Cavanagh-Welchsaid last week in the lead-up to the historic one-off encounter to open the season.

FormanyyearsBroadfordwas apowerhouse in the nowdefunct Waranga-North East League.Then therewereextended periods spentin the Riddell, Heathcote, and OuterEast leagues.

Netball is well established at Broadford, and leadersare realistic about theopposition lying ahead in the BendigoLeague.

Former AFL andKynetonstarNathan Thompson is senior coach of the club, and has been working hardfor months to preparethe footballersfor whattheyare likely to encounter.

Roos’leaders: Head footballcoach Nathan Thompson and presidentBonnie Cavanach-Welch.

KynetonNetball Association is gearing upfor anotherstrongyear

Rain changes Grand Final

Bill West

Woodend Cricket Club and its players andsupportersare very much in celebration mode afterwinning the McIntyre Cup Premiership for2025-26 at the weekend.

TheWoodsmen claimed their first topgrade flag in the Gisborne DistrictCricket Association since 2003-04, withthe Grand Final ending in adrawat5.30pm on Sunday.

Heavyrain on Saturdaymorning at Wallan delayedthe start of the scheduled two-daymatch (80 overs apiece) andhad asignificant impact on howthe match was played.

Woodend captain Marcus Stewart wonthe toss when the Greenhill Reserveground was declared fit forplayand invited Gisborne to bat; this decision gave topofthe ladder Woodend two options —overhaul whateverscore the Dragons maypost, or make sureWoodend is stillbatting at 5.30pm Sunday.

In simple terms, adrawgets Woodend an overdue premiership, with Gisborne's bid forthree flags in arow unfulfilled. Andthis is precisely what eventuated.

Thereseems to be almost universal agreementthatthe best two sides in McIntyre Cup1sts were in the grand final.

TheWoodend club,from livewirepresidentDaniel Heaney, senior coachJosh Eastleyand Stewart down, knowtheywill be the huntedrather than the hunter next season.

Proud of being all locals, apart from specialist coachallrounder Jacques Du Toit from overseas, Woodend expectstoimprove further in 2026-27.

Bringing talentedyoung players through to producepeak performances is expected to continueto be apriority.

KEEPINGTHINGS TIGHT

Gisborne's batting brigade could notwrest controlback from agenerally tightWoodend pace and spin attack on Saturday, when

only 49 overs were bowled.

Excellentground fielding saved vital runs, and pacemen Josh Morleyand Hamish Sheahan captured the first threewickets.

Quality battersJarryd andRiley Vernon loomed large forGisborne as theycombined foravital fourth wicket partnership; irrepressible Warren Else struck twiceto clean bowl them for31and 17 respectively,and Matt Barake was trapped leg before for11byinform spinner TomRobson. When stumpsweredrawn it was6/136 with Gisborne knowing quickruns were apremium on Sunday.

Robson removedthe dangerous Warren Kellyfor 20 early on Sunday, but somehandy late order runs enabled adeclaration to be made at 9/185.

Robson's 3-35 from 19 overs made him the pickofthe bowlers, with Else and Morleynot far behind.

HARD TASK

Gisborne's attack faced atough task, buteffort and enthusiasm was100 per cent

It wassoon clear Woodend wastaking a"no risk" approach, particularly when Stewart faced73 balls before being dismissed by a topdelivery from Josh Wills. At 3/36, Gisborne still had a chancebut theclock wasticking down.

An unbeatenfourthwicket stand of 81 between 21-year-old Ollie Priceand Du Toit snuffed out anychanceofGisborne bouncing back. Good defenceand keeping the ball along the turf paidoff

Price's45not out camefrom 127 balls, and Du Toit's36not out from 91.

Wills finished with 2/41, and strikebowler Leigh Brennan 1/20 from 17 overs.

Cheersfromalarge Woodend spectatorbase had become increasingly louder as the "premiership wrapped up"neared reality PRESENTATIONS

Presentation of the McIntyre Cupand individual medals, as well

as 'Man of the Match' followed, with GDCA presidentSimon Ovenden officiating.

He thanked Wallan Cricket Club and its presidentRobbie Fowler forhaving the ground and facilities in topcondition, and commended both sides fora very competitive match.

"Unfortunately,the weather got in the wayofa result,"hesaid. Officiating grand final umpires

Chris Bretag, RonSmethurstand Shiraz Shamsudeen were thanked fortheir efforts.

Linda Fullard, representing the McIntyrefamily,presentedthe cup and the premiership medals, congratulating all involved.

GDCA lifemember Gary Sanderspresentedthe SandersMedal for'Manofthe Match' award —decided by the umpires —to Ollie Price, who appearstohavea

brightfutureahead.

Sanderssaid clearly the best twosides had playedoff

JarrydVernon congratulated Woodend, and praised his own side fortheir never-say-die attitude.

"It'salwaystough against Gisborne,"Stewart said, in praising his side on its performanceoverthe season and in the finals. He singled out Daniel Heaneyand Mick Barker fortheir positiveinfluence.

TheGDCA's end-of-season dinner takes placetomorrow nightin Sunbury,with the Sullivan Medal and other awards to be presented.

GRAND FINAL SCOREBOARD Woodend wontoss and decided to bowl.

GISBORNE

B. Cook ......bowled Morley7 S. Jones ....c —b Morley24

P. SammutcPrinceb Sheahan 18

J. Vernon bowled Else 31

R. Vernon bowled Else 17

M. Barake lbwRobson 11

W. Kelly. cStewart bRobson 20

L. Brennan notout 19

J. Catania cPriceb McDonald 11

J. King notout 0

Extras 4.

TOTAL 9/185 dec. (62.3 overs)

Bowling: H. Sheahan 2-67, J. Morley2-40, T. Robson 3-35, W. Else 2-36, H. McDonald 1-4. WOODEND

J. Eastley. cLuxmooreb Wills 4. H. Lawson bBrennan 12

M. Stewart .c R. Vernon bWills 8

O. Price. notout 45

J. Du Toit notout 36

Extras 12

TOTAL 3/117 (61 overs)

Result: Matchdrawn —Woodend Premiers(finished on topofthe ladder).

Decisivewicket:Warren Else bowls Gisborne skipper JarrydVernon for31. Photo:Daniel Heaney

Woodend’svictorious premiership team. Photo:Daniel Heaney

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