Midland Express Tuesday 3 June 2025

STATEFIRST TREATY BID

TheDja DjaWurrung People of central Victoria have become the firsttraditional ownerstoseektonegotiate alocal treaty with thestate government.

It will be the first local treaty forVictoria.

Under Victoria’s Treaty Negotiation Framework, traditional owner groups can negotiate theirown treaties, which will reflect aspirations and priorities fortheir local areas.

DJAARA (the DjaDja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation)started that process with aformal notification to the Treaty Authority –the independentbodyestablished to oversee negotiations fora statewide treaty and traditional owner treaties.

Themove comes as Victoria continues to work towardsestablishing whatwouldbe Australia’s first statewide treaty with First Nations people.

ProudDja DjaWurrung manand DJAARAboarddirector,Djaran MurrayJackson, said local treaties would provide amechanism forAboriginal communities to uselocal knowledgetocomeupwith practical solutions at alocal level.

“Localtreatywill be led by ourmob and focus on theissues that areimportanthere on DjaDja Wurrung Country,” Mr MurrayJackson said.

“Country,our connection to the land, is such an importantpart of whoweare as Aboriginalpeople. So,there’snodoubt that initiatives around land and caring forCountry, as articulatedinour Dhelkunya Dja, Dja DjaWurrung Country Plan, will be afocus forthe negotiations.”

Continued page4

DjaDja Wurrung GroupCEO,RodneyCarter

Photo:Stuart Walmsley

Thegovernment’sbitumen

Morgan Reinwald

Thestate governmenthad denied responsibility fora public road in the MountAlexander RegionalParkand for yearsfailed its statutory duty to inspect, repair and maintain its condition.

Joseph Young Driveis an 8.5km stretch of winding road thatcuts through the regionalparkfromone end to the other.

It amassed 54 potholes, overgrownvegetation and remained disregarded for16years. Afterthe Express made enquiries about the legality of its condition, all potholes were fixed last week

Each levelofgovernment– council, state and federal –must keep aregisterofpublicroads to specify if theyare

the responsible authority. Joseph Young Drivedoes not exist on anyregister and has caused safety concerns for the road'susers.

ACFA member,who spokeonthe condition of anonymity,said firetrucks struggled to navigate theroadsurface due to the excess potholes, and overgrown roadside vegetation made it difficult to pull over

“It’snot just thepotholes –it’sthe overgrown verges androadsideweeds that compound this dangerous situation,”the firefighter said.

“Inafire, we need to move fast,and rightnow,we can’t.”

CFAcrews were called to the regionalparklastyear when an unattended campfirebecame out of control.

Continued page2

Apublic citizen spray painted‘potholes ahead’,‘54 potholes to the top’,and ‘dangerriding down’across differentsections of the road.

Thegovernment’s bitumen

From page1

AMexican stand-off

The Express can reveal the road was incorrectly managed sincethe Road ManagementAct wasreleased in 2004.

TheAct required each body of governmenttocreateapublicregister of roads theywereresponsible for, and Joseph Young Drivewas incorrectly added to MountAlexander ShireCouncil’s register

It should have been added to Parks Victoria or the DepartmentofEnergy, Environmentand Climate Action’s registerasits locatedonCrown land and they managethe surrounding regional park.

Asource within the MountAlexander ShireCouncil said they couldn’t repair theroad and likened the situation to repairing adrivewayonprivate property They confirmed council had “numerous discussions” with Parks Victoria and DEECA since2008 to have them assume responsibilityofthe road,but both bodies of government“have been unwilling to acknowledgethis”.

“Council has offeredtoassist Parks Victoria/DECCAwith maintenanceof the disputed section on their behalf, provided asuitable funding arrangement could be established. Council is still yet to receivea response to this offeror even an acknowledgementastothe ownership of the road,” the source said.

Council removedthe road from its register in 2024 to forceaction from Parks Victoria and DEECAbut neither body has assumed official responsibility

DEECA declined to respond to requests forcommentand Parks Victoria told the Express,“We don’t normally managepublic roads. In this case we are managing it pending it being assigned to someone else”.

Despitethis, both Parks Victoria and DEECA have apublicly available Road ManagementPlan thatidentifies the public roads theyare responsible for. Parks Victoria also conductedthe repairs Aholeinthe system

TheRoad ManagementAct outlines the government’sstatutory responsibility to “inspect,repair and maintain roads”.The previous time these obligations were carried out on Joseph Young Drivewas before 2008.

Parks Victoria’s RMP statestheyconduct inspections of roads within three months of being notified of issues and have atimeframe of three to sixmonthstorepair them.

MountAlexander ShireCouncil directed all official complaints regarding Joseph Young DrivetoParks Victoria and DEECA foryears.Theymost recently advised them of the excessivepotholes in April and July 2024, and again in January and February 2025.

Parks Victoria’s RMP states, “Ifitisnot possible to rectify the defect within the

relevant RMP response time, appropriate warning of the hazardortemporary repair is to be provided until the permanent repair can be completed”.This didn’t happen and acitizen took initiativeand illegally spray paintedcircles around the potholes as well as the words, ‘potholes ahead’,‘54 potholes to the top’,and ‘danger riding down’across differentsections of the road

Chris Faraday, anearbyresident and regular traveller of the road,complained about its condition fora year to council, Parks Victoria, DEECA, his state MP,and the Minister forRoads.

“Nothing. Crickets. Ihavenot received awrittenreply or formal response yet,” Faradaysaid.

“They’remoreconcerned with howmuch it’ll cost them than the safety aspectofthe road. Someone could die.”

The Express viewedanemail another residentreceived from Parks Victoria where theyadmitted a“lackofmaintenance” led to the road’s poor condition.

Co-opofferofficially launched

Lisa Dennis

Apackedhouse attended the official launch celebration of the Castlemaine Community InvestmentCo-operativedebenture offeratShedshaker Brewing on Sunday evening.

Theatmospherewas filled with possibility as the Co-op'sinspiring vision to raise the capitaltopurchase TheHub, a belovedlandmark property in the heart of Castlemaine, waslaidout by multiple speakersbeforethe campaign wasofficially launched.

Thedebenture offerwentliveyesterday and runs until SundayJune29, 2025 giving the Co-op28daystoraise the $1.95 million capital to purchase building, which houses 17 communitygroups and small businesses with afocusoncommunity and sustainabilityand bring it under community ownership.

Theprogress will be updatedonagiant thermometeroutside the TheHub building at the cnrBarker and TempletonStreets.

TheCo-op thanked all the community organisations thathad thrown their support behind the campaign so far,inparticularly the CommunityBank Maldon and District, which had assisted the Co-opwithdue diligenceahead of the purchase.

They also thankedThe HubownersNeil and Heather Barrettfor their original vision of building being ahome forlocal action on climate changeand their support of the Co-op and their plan to keep the building community focused.

CommunityBank Maldon and District director HelenCurran said the bank itself had been apioneer 25 yearsago and they wished the Co-opevery success in their ownbold community venture.

Other speakersincluded mayorRosie Annear who spokeas'just Rosie'onthe

nightsharing her warm memories of the building in the days whenithousedthe BonkersonBarker cafe,The Good Table, the Back Bar, TheBalconywhereshe celebrated her 28th birthday, andNigel's coffee windowwhereshe soughtearly morning coffee and conversation as anew mum.

Rosie said while she wasoften arisk taker in her youth, the Co-opdebenture offerpresenteda well researched, compelling and sensible investmentoption open to everyone in the community– big investors andsmall.

"These keybuildings should be community owned and communityfacing! Our buildings need communitytomakethem work to servethe community," Rosie said.

Castlemaine FringeFestival director Azzy Jayalso expressed her support and spokeonthe powerofcommunitytotake ownership and do things their way, and the enticing opportunity to have alittle stakeinlocal real estate andsomething bigger.

Finally,local musician PeterBodin shared asong writteninsupport of the Co-op's bid to retain the building in community ownership.

TheCo-operativeisseeking investors to buy the Hubthrough fixed term loans called debentures.

Investorswill be able to support avital community assetwhile earning agood annual return.Asterms expire theCo-op will payoff the debentureswith savedrental income.

TheCo-op project the building will be wholly community-owned within 20 years.

Thedebenturesoffer up to 4per cent annual return over a5,10 or 15-year term, making them an attractiveoption for socially conscious investors.

Interested investorsare invited to tour TheHub building on Mondaysfrom 4.30pm during the month of June, meet some of the Co-opboardand have any questions answered.

Formoredetails, visit the Co-opwebsitewww.castlemaine.coop

Monumental

moment! Castlemaine Community InvestmentCo-operative directorsGwenHanna, Cath Jolly,Paul vander Wal, Jeanette Pope, Angus Gratton and Warwick Smith celebratethe debenturelaunch at Shedshaker Brewing.

STATEFIRST TREATY BID

From page1

DJAARA, the organisation conducting the community’spreparations fortreaty, has seen close-up the benefits thatcome from embracing traditional knowledgeand practices and celebrating the area’s rich living culture

Thecorporation and its enterprises, collectively known as the DjaDja Wurrung Group,deliver arange of programs including land managementservices, cultural immersion programs and bush tucker initiatives. These have helped breathe fresh lifeintoancient wisdom and generated numerous jobs and economic benefits forthe region in the process.

DjaDja Wurrung Group CEORodneyCartersaid communities thrived when local people could call the shots about local decisions and when therewas a sense of connection and understanding.

“Inaddition to thepractical decision-making powers at alocal level, we know our community also wants to build understanding and pride in ourcultureand languagemorewidely,” Mr Carter said.

Mr Carter pointedtothe façade artworks on and around Bendigolandmark buildings, such as the Law Courts and Galkangu –BendigoGovHub, as well as upgrades to thejointly managed parks on Djandak (Dja DjaWurrung Country), including around theDaylesford area.

Art, signageand languageare some ways of providing everyone witha waytoconnect withand celebrate the oldest living culture in the world.

DJAARA will nowtakesteps to form adelegation, which will be responsible forconducting negotiations. Thestate governmentwill then be formally invited to commencenegotiations. In the meantime, DJAARA will continue consulting with communities in the area to setthe priorities to take into the treaty negotiations.

“We’ve gota lotofbig conversationstohavewith our mob over thecoming months to work out how we want to uselocal knowledgetodeliver practical solutions forour community.Thisisanexciting time foreveryone who calls Djandak home,”MrMurrayJackson said.

Purplebowsfor WEAAD

Sunday, June 15 is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and from the June 6until one week afterWEAAD,selected trees in the Macedon Ranges Shirewill be wearing purple bows as amark of respect.

During this period, WEAAD events will takeplacethroughout the state Closer to home, Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil has teamed up with local initiative‘Kindness to Elders’ to present an afternoon of film in Kynetonhosted by veteranactor Ian Rooney. Thefeaturefilm Thelma will be screened and entry is free. Thelma is an action comedymade by agrandsonabout his grandmother and is ratedM

TheActiveLiving Census is here!

Thecensus is acommunity survey that asksabout your health, wellbeing and daily habits

Your inputwill help guide decisionsaboutprograms, recreation spaces and services in our community

“I encourage everyone acrossour shiretocompletethe survey,” said MayorRosie Annear

“The morepeoplewho getinvolved, the clearer picture we get of what’sgoing well in our community and what’s needed.

“Your responses help us makedecisions thataffectyour day-to-day. It helps us improve our trails, bikepaths, playgrounds, and sports and recreation facilities.”

Completethe surveyand go intothe draw to winashare of $10,000 in prizes.

Learn moreathealthyloddoncampaspe.au/alc.

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

At the end of the movie, 94-year-old Thelma looks out at the trees and says "Look howgnarled theyare and yetthey live" –"What spirit!"

When yousee atreewith apurple bowremember the eldersinyour life, even better,givethemacall to sayhello. Formoreinformation about WEAAD in the Macedon Ranges, visit council’swebsiteand Events/‘Whatsonaround the shire’: www.mrsc.vic.gov.auorphone 5422 0333.

If you or anyone youknoware experiencing elder abuse, phone theconfidential helpline at Senior Rights Victoria 1300 368 821 (and press option 1).

Chestersdeclared forBendigo

Labor Member forBendigo,Lisa Chesters MP hasofficially been declared as the Member forBendigoatthe declaration of the polls by the Australian Electoral Commission on Friday.

At the conclusion of counting, Ms Chesters was2983 votesahead of her nearest challenger,securing her afifthterm in office.MsChesterswilljoin 93 other Labormembersin the House of Representatives when Parliamentreturns on July 22.

Waterand energy security forcentral Victorians will be akey focus forMsChesters, as local farmers and producerscontinue to battle with the effectsofdroughtand Climate Change.

Castlemaine Safe Space and Community Pantry is anon-clinical, free,confidential, drop-in centre, staffed by trained peer volunteers.

Weareopen:Tuesdays4pm-6.30pm,Thursdays9.30am-12pm, Saturdays 1.30pm-4pm Dropinforachatandacuppa,foralisteningear,ortouse ourCommunityPantry.Formoreinformationgoto https://www.castlemainesafespace.org/orfollowuson InstagramorFacebook.

CastlemaineSafeSpace, acalmandwelcomingplace, openandinclusivetoeveryone.

Castlemaine Safe Space 74 Mostyn St, Castlemaine www.castlemainesafespace.org

Trees in the Macedon Ranges will be wearing purple bows to mark WorldElder Abuse Awareness Day.

Volunteers‘priceless’

Winnersannounced forthe Macedon Ranges CommunityAwards

Thewinnersofthe Macedon Ranges Community Awards 2025 have been officially announced, with inspiring individuals and groupsrecognised fortheir contributions to theshire.

Held at the KynetonTownHall on ThursdayMay 22 during National Volunteer Week, the eventcelebrated outstanding efforts across eightaward categories, as part of anewly consolidatedformatcombining the former awards in January and YouthAwardsin September into oneflagship celebration.

MayorDom Bonanno congratulatedall the nominees and award recipients, saying the nighthighlightedthe strength and heart of the Macedon Ranges.

“These awards area testament to theincredible people who passionately and consistently makeour shirea better place. Their stories reflect acommunitythatvaluescompassion, connection, and contribution,”hesaid.

“Volunteersare notpaid, notbecause they’reworthless, but because they’repriceless. Congratulations to all the winnersineach of the categories, but also morebroadly to all the nominees and those who took thetime to nominate them.”

Thewinnersand their categories were:

•Citizen of the Year Award: Greg Snart.

Greg wasrecognised forhis advocacyfor community firesafety and emergency response, municipal fireplanning and youth mental health.

•Youth Leadership Award: Emily Danister

This awardispresentedtoindividuals or groupsaged12-25 who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, advocacy,or servicetoyouth in theMacedon Ranges.

Emily wasrecognised forher volunteering to support local single mothers, younger students in danceand with local Aboriginal leadersincaringfor Country.Bonnie Saunderswas also nominated for her notable advocacyand achievements in gender equality in trades and vocational training.

•Young Citizen of the Year Award: Aidan Hunter

Aidan wasrecognised forhis contributions towardsscouting with 1st Gisborne Scout Group,volunteering with Bullengarook CFAand his cadetachievements.

•Contribution to theEnvironmentAward:VinceMulkerin.

Vincewas nominatedfor his work withthe Riddells Creek Cool Changes project.

•Contribution to Community Arts Award: Macedon Ranges Accessible Arts Inc.

Macedon Ranges Accessible Arts Incisanoutstanding example of inclusivecommunityarts in action. Sinceits founding in 2022, MRAAI has worked to increase access to thearts forpeople living with disability,neurodivergent individuals, and LGBTQIA+ artists in regional Victoria.

•Contribution to Sports and Wellbeing Award: Kyneton Women’s Football Club.

KynetonWomen’s Football Clubprioritises holistic wellbeing through leadership development, mental health advocacy,and partnerships with organisations likeProud2Play, andSunbury and CobawCommunity Health. Their proactivework in creating inclusivespaces– particularly forwomen, LGBTIQA+ people, First Nations groups and those from diverse backgrounds –demonstrates courageand innovation in community sport.

•InclusiveCommunities Award: Birdsofa Feather programat Sunbury and CobawCommunity Health.

Sunbury and CobawCommunity Health’s Birdsofa Feather Programwas recognised forits work in improving social connectedness and equity forolder LGBTIQA+ people in thecommunity

•Community Eventofthe Year Award: KynetonAgricultural Society (KynetonAgricultural Show).

Action savespigmy perch

An injection of truckloads of water into the Deep Creek near Lancefield has savedendangeredpopulations of the rare yarrapigmyperch.

This is just one consequenceofsevere droughtconditions thathaveseen stream flows diminish, and water levels drop severely across catchments.

Ecologists from Melbourne Waterbecame awareofnoflowing water,and almost dry pools at the MusteysBridgesitejust northofLance-

field, and at Doggetts Bridge.

Deep Creekhas been impacted by higher temperatures, and increased evaporation over manymonths; therehas notbeen significant water flowsince last November

Last summer wasthe driest since2013-14 and the fourth warmest since1910.

This followedadry spring which caused stream flows across manydistrict catchments to drop 43 per cent belowthe 30-year average.

Winner of the Citizen of the Year Award, Greg Snart (centre),pictured with mayorDom Bonanno and MRSCCEO Bernie O’Sullivan.

Business Kyneton is your local volunteerrun, non-profit organisation that unites the community and supports and advocates for local businesses. We have two events in the month of June and with lots of requests, we have scheduled one in the morning and an also an evening gathering.

MonthlyCoffeeCatch-up

JoinusonFriday,June6that SocialFoundry,86MollisonSt,Kyneton, 9am-10:30am,for theBusiness Kynetonmonthly coffee catch-up. On the first Friday of the month, we gather at thecommunaltable at the rear of the cafe. Buy acoffeeand have achat with other freelancers, sole traders, and small business owners. No rsvp necessary.

Woolworths opens Thursday

Afteryears of communitydebate,planning disputes and conjectureCastlemaine's long-awaited Woolworths storewill officially open itsdoorsat88Forest Street this Thursday. Local history buff, photographer and creatorofthe 'Welcome to Woolworths Castlemaine'Facebook page, David Williamson, has been documenting the progress of the build, undertaken by Maben on behalf of developersLascorp InvestmentGroup,and has been invited to cutthe ribbon to open the newstore

TheWoolworths storewill be officially opened with aceremonyand cake between 8.20am and 8.50am on Thursdaybefore doorsopenat9am.The eventwill coincide with theopening of the newTerryWhite

Chemmart Express Pharmacyatthe complex. This will be followedbya Woolworths Castlemaine 'Grand Community Opening' eventatthe complexthisSaturdayJune 7. Bendigo'sHit FM 91.9 will be broadcasting livefromthe sitefrom8am to 11am. Thecommunitycelebration activities will run from 10am to 2pm and include Spin and Wingiveaways –with morethan$3500 in prizes up forgrabs. Simply makeany purchase at Woolworths, BWSorTerryWhiteChemmart Chemist on the daytospinthe wheel (conditions apply). Thefreefamily-friendly eventwill include facepainting, balloon art, popcorn, fairy floss, livemusic, food vans and more!

LAUNCH YOUR NURSING CAREER IN RURAL HEALTH

Woolworths Castlemaineteam members Renato (Fruit &Veg Manager),Sarah (Customer Service Manager), Chris (Grocery Manager), Nic(StoreManager), and Dinesh (AssistantGrocery Manager)are pictured with localhistory buff and Welcome to Woolworths Castlemaine Facebook pagecreator David Williamsonastheyset up the store.

Beau is backcooking up astorm

Lisa Dennis

Local MasterChefAustralia season four contender Beau Cook, 40, is back on our television screens as one of the contestants on MasterChefAustralia: Back to Win currently airing on 10 and 10 Play

MasterChefAustralia: Back To Win marksthe 17th season of the popular showand is full of fanfavourites from seasons one to 16. Theseries sees some of the kitchen’s most iconic cooksput up the fightoftheir lives to impress judges Andy Allen, Sofa Levin, PohLing Yeow andJean-Christophe Novelli in abid to claimvictory and $250,000 in prize money. When Beau last appeared on the television series 13 yearsago in 2012, the Castlemaineresidentwas aconstruction worker by dayand amateur chefbynight. He powered

through the competition with his passion forbarbecuing and Italian fare and finished eighth. He has sincesettled at Harcourt and fulfilled his dream of becoming afirefighter.

"I have been working as afirefighterfor around 11 years now. Aftercompleting my training, Iwas stationed at Bendigofor acouple of yearsand Iamnow based at Sunbury."

Beau said thatcooking had remained apassion and his firies colleagues were certainly notaversetoseeinghim in the station kitchen.

"I usually have to cook something thatcan be left at a moment'snoticeifweget called out to ajob,likea good slow roast. They love it though!"

Beau has also produced acookbook and also been sharing recipes through the quarterly BendigoMagazine

"Ithas kept my hand in and kept me creating. Ihavea

veggie garden at home and every meal has something from the garden in it whether it'sgarlic or parsleyand Ilove using fresh local produce."

Beau is currently working on anew project with his best friend Brentand their mates, local brothersKye andQuinn Livingstone, operatorsofthe Harcourt ValleyVineyard

"The four of us arecreating anew naturally flavoured hardlemon beverage,which will be ratedat8 percent. We arejustrefining the recipe.

"Our all newWildpointHardLemon will be available at Harcourt Valley Vineyardsand local bottle shops in July.So watchthisspace."

MasterChefAustralia: Back to Wincontinues Sundayat 7pm, and Monday to Wednesdayat7.30pm on 10 and 10 Play

Harcourt’sBeau Cook serves up adishtothe MasterChefjudges Sofia Levin, PohLing Yeow,JeanChristophe Novelli and fellowseasonfour alumni AndyAllen

Beau hardatworkonanpasta dish in the MasterChefkitchen.

Police respondtopetition

Morgan Reinwald

Gisborne Police have publicly responded to apetition thatgarnered 140 signatures and called forthe station to operate24/7, amid concerns of increased crime in thetown.

Sharyn Ward started the petition and said the limited operating hoursofthe station left gaps forcriminals to operate, particularly at nightime.

''I have witnessed first-hand theimpact crime has on our community.Itcan be unsettling, disrupting and at times frightening," Ms Ward said.

"Reports of vandalism, theftand even violentincidents have been increasing in our area, and residents aregrowing moreconcerned about their safety

"A police presenceatall hours is crucial notjust foremergency response, but also forpreventativemeasures thatcan detercrime before it starts.

"The safety and wellbeing of our communitydepend on having

lawenforcementavailable and accessible at all times."

SteveMazziol, acting SergeantatGisborne Police Station, made astatementand acknowledged the petition circulating on Facebook groups.

"Wewanttoassureyou that thereisa 24-hour policeresponse capabilitywithin the Gisborne area and surrounding Macedon Ranges,"Sgt Mazziol said.

"While the Gisborne Police Station's public reception counter maynot alwaysbeopen 24/7, please be awarethata dedicated 24-hour response unit operates from the Gisborne Police Station. This means thatevenifthe frontcounterisclosed, policeofficers areondutyand responding to calls forassistance."

The Express confirmed thestation is notmanned at night, however apoliceofficerisrostered at all hourswith aDivisional Van to respond to incidents in the area.

TheCrime Statistics Agency Victoria reported Gisborne had an increased number of 386 criminal incidents 2024, up from 321 the previous year

Join thedog walkers

TheNewham Walking Group with Dogs is taking expressions of interest forthose keen to join their weekly Tuesdaymorning walks through scenic trails in the Macedon Ranges and Hepburn Shire. Meetsbegin at 9am and cover4-5km withregular stops along the way. Dogs arewelcome, though notrequired, and walking sticks arealso welcome. Memberstypically bring athermos fora cuppa aftereach walk, and occasionally visit alocal cafe.All routes include access to toilets at some pointand thewalkersoften break into twogroups at different paces to ensurenoone is left behind. Registration and queries canbemade on the Woodend Neighbourhood House website.

When: Wednesdays 6.30 –8.30

Where: Kyneton

Toyota Sports &Aquatic Centre. 4Victoria St. Kyneton

GP servicesinclude:

•Women’s,men’s and children’s health

•LGBTQIA+ health

•FotoFinder skin checks

•Health assessments

•Hearthealth checks

•Medical body composition analyser

•Flu and COVID-19 vaccines

•Mentalhealth

•Chronic disease management.

OPENINGHOURS

Mon –Thu: 8:00am –7:00pm Fri: 8:00am–6:00pm Sat: 9:00am –3:00pm 03 5422 2877 | campaspefp.com.au

Apublicpetition has called forthe Gisborne Police Station to operate24/7.

Enforceable Undertaking to protect threatened grasslands

Powercor has enteredintoalegally binding Enforceable Undertaking with the Conservation Regulatorfollowing an investigation into damageofthreatened nativegrasslands and floraat36 sites across Victoria, including theCastlemaine Botanical Gardens.

Theinvestigation examined vegetation managementand maintenanceactivities carried out by Powercor in 2023 and 2024, which impacted areas of high conservation value.

Oneofthe sites impacted wasthe Castlemaine Botanical Gardens, which is abreeding sitefor the endangered eltham copper butterfly.The gardens have been listed forremediation as part of the undertaking.

Theundertaking commits Powercor to arangeofactions aimed at improving its environmental performanceand repairing existing damage.

Chiefconservation regulatorKate Gavens said this wasareminder to all Victorian landownersand managersthat theyshould be awareoftheir obligations to protect threatened florabeforeundertaking anywork thatmightdisturb or destroy vegetation.

“This Enforceable Undertaking ensures this fragile protected florawill be remediated following Powercor’sactions,”Ms Gavens said.

“Powercor has aresponsibility to protect threatened floraand this Enforceable Undertaking will ensurethese obligations are met. It does notprevent the Conservation Regulatorfromtaking further action if noncomplianceoccurs in the future.”

Community digs deep

Thecommunityhas dugdeep and donatedmorethan $50,000 to the oncology departmentatthe KynetonHealth campus.

CentralHighlands RuralHealth put the call outfor help to purchase ascalp cooler forpatients and the targetwas reached when membersofthe KynetonUniting Church Community Op Shop asked howmuch wasneeded and gave an incredible $17,847.55!

Susan Whitfield, CHRH'sacting director of clinical operations, said theywerethrilled to have received so much support.

"Our oncology team will undertaketraining in the use of the scalp cooler and then it will be introduced to our patients,"Ms Whitfield said.

"Weknowthatlocals have been travelling to other health services to gain access to ascalp cooler and we aregrateful thatwe can nowenhanceour careatKynetonHealth."

Oncology nurses at the health servicerequested the 'scalp cooling machine'tominimise the impact of cancer treatmentand supportpatientwellbeing. Patients receiving chemotherapytreat-

mentoften experience hair loss, which canbephysically uncomfortable and emotionally distressing.

Kathleen Wyatt, KynetonUniting Church CommunityOpShop, said the Op Shop volunteersprided themselves on supporting their local community

"Christine Stephenson, one of our volunteers, hasbeen a patientatthe Oncology Unit. Shehas shared thatthe loss of your hair during treatmentimpactsyourdignity," Ms Wyattsaid.

"For country people to have the same opportunities as city people, taking the travel out of treatmenteases thefinancial burden as well as easing the physical impactonthe patient, their family and friends."

CHRH’s TheBest CareProject welcomes donations to enhance healthcarefor rural Victorians. If youcan makea one-off or regular donation, visit KynetonHealth’s reception, contact Kathryn Kosloff,engagementand fundraising manager on 0439 705 039, email giving@chrh.org.au or visit www.chrh.org.au/donate

CHRH’s engagementand fundraising manager Kathryn Kosloffacceptsthe generous donation from Op Shop volunteer MegCameron.

Self reflection conversations

Reflectingonprivilege, structuralracism and allyship

Jade Jungwirth

Agroup of local non-Indigenous residents arewelcoming community members to join atwo-day self reflection programthis month.

Thefacilitated conversationsare away to help non-Indigenous people reflect on their beliefs, values, and understandings of cultural bias and privilege, to ensuretrue allyship.

While the sessions aretailored to the individual needs and knowledgeofeach group,the conversationswill cover: motivations, history,local knowledgeand culture, and ameaningful look at mainstream/dominantculture, whiteprivilegeand racism.

Theworkischallenging and the facilitators hope thatpeople will gettoplacesthat areunsettling because, "That'swhen the real learning happens"

Theconversations will also include: ways to move forwardtogether,the importance of reconciliation, the challenges and the best waytobecome atrueally

FacilitatorZoe Scoglio told the Express thatthese faciliatedconversations were building on thework thatwas already being done locally by Auntie Julie and Nalderun CEOKathCoffand others.

"It'saspace whereweall learn from each other and realise the importanceofnot working in isolation,"she said.

"Tobeinspaces whereyou arecomfortable enough to be uncomfortable, while unpacking our owndifferentexperiences and cultural lenses,"she said.

Thecontent andfacilitators areapproved by,and accountable to,Nalderun FirstNations staffand directors.

Thetwo-day programwill be held at Castlemaine Community House on Sunday June 8and June 15 from 10am to 3.30pm. This is anot-for-profit initiativeand all costs go towardsfacilitatorsand room hire, 15 per cent towardsaFirst Nations led initiative, and remaining income will go towards subsidisation forparticipants on lowincomes,

and futurelearning and training. Cost forparticipation is on aself-selecting sliding scale ranging between $550 to $0.

To enrolvisit cch.org.au/courses/selfreflection-conversation-anti-racism. Bookings close ThursdayJune 5.

Formoreinformation email reflectionconversations@gmail.com

Take the survey

Morgan Reinwald

HealthyLoddon Campaspe is running an ActiveLiving Census as part of aregion-wide survey to analyse the health of residents in the region.

TheCensus asks respondents about their physical health,diet, smoking and gambling habits, as well as howhappytheyfeel, and whatis stopping them from leadinghealthier lives. Theinformation will be used to helps schools,sporting clubs, community groups, government and local leadersmakebetterdecisionsabout health programs, newrecreation spaces and services in theregion

ClaireRawlinson, director of KynetonCommunity House, said their organisation hadjoined HealthyLoddon Campaspe to promote the Census because it would assist in obtaining funding forthe region.

"Wewantpeople to have their say and improve liveability in Kyneton," Rawlinson said.

KynetonCommunity House will be assisting those wanting to participateinthe Census at their Community Café session at 35 High Street, Kyneton, from 12-2pm on June 10 and 17. Thedigital drop-in session will assist those unsurewith computers, or don’thaveone,tocomplete the survey

"Wejust want to makeitaseasy as possible forpeople tobeable to manage it," she said

TheCensus previously helped fund the establishmentofthe Good Food Huband the expansion of community gardens in NeighbourhoodHouses.

Participants who complete the Census online by June 1will go into the draw forprizes, including a$1000 voucher

ZoeScoglio and Emma King aretwo of the Self-Reflections Conversations facilitators.

Woodend CFA women on fire

Theimportantrole thatwomen playinthe efficientrunning of the Woodend CFAwas celebrated at the brigade's recent annual dinner and awardpresentations.

Four of the topsix awards presentedatthe dinner were given to women, withthe Member of the Year awardgoing to Cara Nolanfor an outstanding year of commendable service.

Theother topfivefinalists were Jo Hambling, Alex Rogers, BrettGrayand Jemima Bradfield-Smith.

This year’sCaptain’s Awardwas presentedtoamember who had done an outstanding job throughout the year,and forall of her 14 yearswith the brigade. Second Lieutenant SueHobbs wascommended on her ‘super’commitmentto the brigade and her excellentwork in the brigade managementteam and as communitysafetyofficer and rehab team manager

“Thereisa long history of female involvementinthe Woodend CFAinbothoperational and support roles,”Captain SteveRitchie said.

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"The brigade cultureisone thatactively encourages involvementinour duties on abroad scale.

"Today’sgroup of talentedwomen continues atradition of dedicatedservicetoour community,the whole state of Victoria and beyond."

SueHobbs said women nowmadeup30per cent of the brigade’s operational membership.

“Infact, thereare currently 11 women who areoperational membersofthe brigade, turning outtoall of our emergency calls,"she said.

"Sofar this year,wehavebeencalled to arecordnumber of emergencies and ourtop twoattendees to thesecall outs arewomen.”

Captain Ritchie noteditwas notunusual to seethe majority of membersinacrewbeing made up of womenand therewereinstances earlier this year when four of the five membersona striketeam were Woodend women.

As well as SueHobbs undertaking her importantroles listed above,women currently overseeanimportant

number of managementroles within the brigade. Annette vanHuffel has been secretary for19ofher 20 yearswith the Woodend CFA; Kate Daniel has been amember for 15 yearsand has managed the brigade’s fire equipment maintenancefor manyyears; CaraNolan, named as this year’sMember of the Year’ looks aftermember support and assists in manycommunity activities; LauraSchmid is assistantfor communitysafety, OH&S and member support; and JemimaBradfield-Smith, also named above,isequipmentassistant

“Itisa very rewarding role,contributing to thesafety and welfareofour local and boarder communities,"Sue said.

"The old viewthatbeing afirefighterisaman’s job is so farfromthe reality,and the work of the women in the Woodend Fire Brigade is testament to that.”

If youare interested in finding out more about howyou can giveback to your communitythrough the Woodend CFA, getintouch to find out more.

Pictured (left to right standing) are Sue Hobbs, Marieke WaarsdorpFeatonby, Annette van Huffel, Kristy Butler, Jo Hambling and (in front) Lucy Levecke, Cara Nolan, Laura Schmid

Tackling Australia’shiddenhousing crisis –one spareroom at atime

Jade Jungwirth

Threewomen, in their 50s or older,are being offereda unique, long-term, co-living opportunityina largeMount Macedon home.

Wanting to fill his emptyfamily home with life, Sev Clarkejoined TheRoom Xchange– an online homeshare platform matching home ownerswith tenants.

Sev'sadult daughterlives in Melbourne, and his wife, an accomplished lecturer,spends alot of time in the city, which oftenleavesSev alone in the sizeable house.

Wanting to create alively,co-living communityinhis tranquil regional home, Sevdecided to offerthe residents arentoffsetarrangement, wherebytenants would contribute10hoursofassistanceineither the garden, admin or house management. Each woman will have their ownfully

furnished bedroom, aprivate office spaceand twoshared bathrooms, plusmultiple living areas.

TheRoom XChangefounder and CEO, Ludwina Dautovic, has spentthe past nine yearsmatching home ownerswithtenants. Shesaidtherewerethree different contract options thathomeownersused.

"These include the traditional rental model, an innovativeoffsetmodel or,likeSev is doing, amix of both," Ludwina told the Express.

"Wehavealot of households with older people who are living in very big houses, oftenontheir own, and manyare looking forcompanionship or help around thehouse, and theymay chose to notcharge rent

"Wealso have single professionals who need help paying their mortgage so theyrentout aroom."

TheRoom Xchangeoffersauniqueprofile-matching

Join Elders fora rural gathering

EldersKynetonrecognises the challenging times manyofour localfarmersand families arefacing.

Now, more than ever,it’simportantto come together —tosupport one another and create aspacefor rest, connection and honest conversation.

TheEldersteam recently witnessed something special when774 ABC Radio broadcast their showlivefromColiban Park’s kitchen last Wednesdayasa part of their 'Victoria Runs Dry' awareness campaign. This campaign’s aimwas to highlightthe droughtconditions across rural Victoria to a broader audience.

Focusing on theColiban Park property allowedthe team to report on the impactthe dry conditions arehaving on one family and area. Speaking to notonlyDuncan, Jack and Jess Barber,but Greg Duggan, JimWilson, Mike Abramowski and Jake Kulevski allowed the team to report on differentaspects, including farmers' mental healthand planning forthe season ahead.

TheatmosphereGregDuggan and Bree Bertoni from EldersKynetonwereable to

experiencewas incredible —neighbours, friends, and families united in genuine support. It wasa powerful reminder of what communitymeans: showing up, standing together and sharing the load.

That’s exactlywhatElder Kynetonwould liketooffer: Asafe, welcoming placewhere youcan take abreather,enjoya cuppa and chatwith otherswho truly understand. Think of it as amomenttopause, recharge and share.

As apart of the rural community themselves —not just as serviceproviders, but as business partnersand neighbours— Elders would be proud to facilitate this gathering, and genuinely wantstosee thecommunity continue to support one another

Theinvitation is open to everyone. Let’s takea momenttogether —for conversation, connection and community.

Join EldersKynetonfor aRural Community Gathering to enjoya barbecueand yarn at 2pm on FridayJune 13 at 83 Edgecombe Road.

RSVP by MondayJune 9toBreeon0457 321 337 or 5423 3000.

ArtShowwillinspire

Rotary Castlemaine’s 36th Annual ArtShowisset to return to theCastlemaine Town Hall this King’sBirthdaylongweekend, June 5-9.

2025 awardwinnerswill be unveiled at aGala Opening eventthis Thursdayevening June 5at7pm

Ticketsfor the gala are$25 and will be available at the door

With Rotary membersand community supportersvolunteering their time to stagethe showproceeds arechannelled into Rotary’scommunity support andcharity work.

TheRotary Castlemaine ArtShowraffle will also onceagain be apopular feature, with alimited edition print Clunes by renowned local artist Jeff Makin valued at $1300 as first prize. Raffle tickets are$2and available from our office at 13 HargravesStreet, Castlemaine, local supporting businesses and at the event.

TheArt Show is open Fri-Sun 10am to 4pm and Mon10am to 3pm. Entry$5pp, U16 free. Seerotarycastlemaine.org.au formoredetails.

systemthatconnectsusersbased on personality,values and lifestyle compatibility –making thehouse-sharing experiencesmoother and moreharmonious.

Theplatform, which is available forfreefor rentersand home owners(with optional extras forhome owners),also includes amandatory identity verification include on the site, which helps to ensuresafetyand peaceofmind.

With morethan13million unused sparebedrooms sitting idle in homes across the country,The Room Xchange has found aunique waytotackle Australia's hidden housing crisis.

Anyone interested in finding out moreabout Sev'scoliving opportunity can email Ludwina Dautovic at ludwina@ theroomxchange.com to receivemoreinformation and details on howtoapply.Tofind out moreabout the housesharing platform go to www.theroomxchange.com

Theextraordinary MountMacedon home with plenty of room forthree women to homesharewith the owner Sev.

SevClarkewants to create alively co-living community in his tranquil regionalhome.

TheRoom XChangefounderand CEO Ludwina Dautovic.

mtoring g

Testingreal-time alerts forriders

ResearchersfromLaTrobe University areshaping the futureofmotorcycle safety by trialling aconnected motorcycle systemthatdeliversreal-timealertsto ridersabout immediate road hazards.

Thetechnology provides early warnings tailored to the motorcyclist's perspective, including alerts about slippery surfaces, trafficcongestion, potential collisions with carsatrisky intersections, and manyother dangerous situations, giving riderstime to respond safely

Thesystem enhances riders’ awarenessofhazards thatmay be difficult to detectwiththe human eye. It is designed to operatewithin thebroader Cooperative IntelligentTransport Systemsecosystem,which shares real-time safety messages between vehicles, roadside infrastructure,and trafficcontrol systems.

An industry-leading project known as the 'connected motorcycle pilot',LaTrobe researchersintegrated C-ITSinmotorcycles andworked alongside the motorcycle industry and riderstodevelop technologies that can deliver thewarnings. These include alerts sentto ridersinsmart helmets, augmented-reality glasses, haptic wristbands and LEDLights.

Forthe first time globally,these prototypes were tested at scale with riders, evaluating the technical performance, the desirability by ridersand the impact on their behaviour

Theproject wasinitiatedand funded by Queensland’sDepartmentofTransport and Main Roads, and the Victorian Transport Accident Commission, and facilitatedand funded by the national centre fortransport and mobility R&D iMOVEAustralia as part of the federal government’sCRC Program.

While motorcyclistsmakeupjust0.7 per cent of total vehicle kilometres travelled in Australia, they representabout 20 per cent of all road crash deaths. In 2024, 278 motorcyclistsdied on Australian roads–a10.3 per cent increase on the 252 deaths in 2023 and the deadliest year formotorcycledeaths since1989.

Project lead Erik vanVulpen said while C-ITSwas being used globally forcars, thetechnology had hugepotentialto makeroads saferfor motorcyclists.

Theresearchersfromthe La Trobe Centre forTechnology Infusion worked with close to 1000 motorcyclists, international motorcycleconsortiumsincluding the world’sbiggest motorcycle companies, and the Queensland and Victorian governments to gather data and developthe prototype early warning system. More than 90 ridershavealso tested the alert systeminsimulatedconditions at the Autodrome, exposing them to sixroad hazardsituations and sending warnings to help them preparefor,and avoid, the danger,in the world’slargest test of the C-ITSsystemfor motorcycles.

“This is the firsttime suchanelaborate, collaborative effort has been made to understand howtomakethistechnology work formotorcyclists,”hesaid. “Wehavecollected valuable data about reaction distanceand times, braking, vehicle speed, throttle position and brakelightsensor,to help determine the system’seffectiveness and its usefulness to riders.

Mr vanVulpen said awareness of motorcyclistsamong car driverswas areal problem as theyoften didn’t notice motorcyclistsintime and this cooperativesystemenabled

car driverstobealerted of amotorcyclist’spresenceevenif theycouldn’t see them

TACCEO Tracey Slattersaidmotorcyclists remained over-representedinroad traumaand advanced technology could playa biggerrole keeping riderssafe.

“Motorcyclistsare one of our most vulnerable road users as theylack the sameprotection as driversand so consequences of having acrash can be farmoresevere,”Ms Slattersaid.

“The TACinvests in research to inform improvements in road safety to save lives. This pilotisisagreat example of thepotential thattechnology can play in keeping riders safe.”

Safetyguidancefor EV drivers

RACV is encouraging EV driversto adoptspecific safety practices, as Victoria experiences continued growth in zeroemission vehicle ownership.

Specific driving techniques recommened include:

•Exercise pedestrian awareness: EVs' quieteroperation means pedestrians may nothear youapproaching. Be especially cautiousonshared paths and in pedestrian-heavy areas.

•Establish visual confirmation: Make eye contactwith other road usersbefore proceeding through intersections or changing lanes.

•Eliminate distractions: Avoid using headphones or mobile phones while driving. EV operation requires the same attention as conventional vehicles, despitetheir often-quieteroperation.

•Drivesmoothly and steadily: Sudden acceleration or hardbraking wastes

energy and reduces range. Maintaining consistentspeeds helpspreservebattery lifewhile providing asafer driving experience.Alwaysdriveataspeed that allows foreasyand quick stopping, accounting for the sometimes-rapidacceleration capabilities of EVs.

•Utilise regenerativebraking effectively: This innovativefeatureconverts energy lost during braking back into battery charge.Learning to use this system properly notonlyextends rangebut can reducetraditional brakewear

•Maintain your battery performance: Electric vehicle ownersshould be aware of howtomaintain electric vehiclebattery performanceand lifespan, howtosafely use and charge theirelectric vehicle, and whattodoshould an incidentoccur.Although extremely rare,ifanEVbattery fire does occur,itcan be of high intensity and youshould call 000 immediately.

New technology provides early warnings tailored to the motorcyclist’s perspective

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PJ’s Tyresa finalistinAIA awards

PJ's DiscountTyreServiceinCastlemaine is thrilled to have once again been selected as afinalist in the highly regarded AutomotiveIndustry Awards, under the 'Best SmallBusiness –Regional' category

TheVACCand TACC will stagethe prestigious 2025 AutomotiveIndustry Awards at CrownPalladium on June 28 and the eventwill be hosted by Aussie actor,comedian and presenter Shane Jacobson.

PJ's DiscountTyreServiceoperatorsSean Finning and Phillipa GrayFinning said this latest acknowledgmentwas atestamenttothe passion and hardwork of their amazing team, as well as their ongoing dedication to delivering top-tier servicetotheir localcustomers.

Thelatestsuccess followsonfromPhillipa's 'Employeeofthe Year' awardatthe annual AutomotiveIndustry Awards in 2023.

Phillipa wasthrilled to claimthe honoursfromnine finalists from across the stateatthe industry'snightofnights.

That same year the local business wasalsoone of the top14finalists in the 'Best SmallAutomotiveBusiness –Regional' category.Aterrific effort from 5000 automotivebusinesses across the state including everything from mechanics to panel beaters andmowershops to motorcycle retailers.

PJ's DiscountTyreServiceoffersnew tyres, wheel alignments, repairs, balancing, newwheels and batteries, and also offers fleetvehicle tyre maintenance.

Customerscan call in fora free tyre check or just to getsome advice and arewelcome to swing in and pumpuptheir tyresatany time during business hours.

In April 2024, PJ's also welcomed highly experiencedlocal mechanic Matt Chatzidimitriou to their team.

Matt brings morethan 30 yearsofmechanical expertise to thelocal business.

PJ's nowoffersfull servicing on all vehicle makes and models, and also offers diagnostics and testing to target anyissues with your vehicle and achieve optimal performancemaking them aone-stop-shop forall your automotiveneeds.

Sean and Phillipa said it wasanhonour to be afinalist onceagain and stand among some of the most respectednames in theindustry

Alarmingsurvey results

NewTAC research shows thatyoung Victorian drivers’ acceptanceofspeeding is double thatofall other drivers. Thesurvey found that one in three young Victorian drivers, aged between 21-25, saytheyroutinely speed 5km/h or moreoverthe limit.

Speeding is amajor factor in around 30 per cent of deaths on Victoria's roadsinthe past five yearsand almost 80 per cent of speeding-relatedcasualtycrashes involvedrivers travelling between 1-9 km/h over thespeedlimit.

Running late andwanting to makeuptimeisthe common reason given forspeeding, so makesuretoplanyourjourney ahead of time, ensureyou allowplentyoftime.

Setting your cruise controland staying alert to changing speed zones, particularly in residential streets, canalsohelp with saferdriving behaviours.

"Weare incredibly thankful forthe continued support from ourcustomers, partners, and local community.

Thank youfor being apartofour story —we’ll keep youposted on the final results!"

PJ’s DiscountTyres owners (Back) Phillipa Gray-Finning and SeanFinning and team members (Front)Wes Patterson, MattChatzidimitriou and Kerrie Jones arethrilled to have been announced as finalists in ‘Best Small Business –Regional’category of the AutomotiveIndustry Awards.

Think global,act local

Getinvolvedinyourlocal landcareorfriends group

Getting involved in your local landcareorfriends group is agreat waytogiveback and help the environment, building biodiversity and creating habitat for precious nativeplantand animal species.

These groupscarefor our land through practical actions likerevegetation, weed and pest control, erosion controland improving waterquality.Theyalso engage and support community through workshops, interpretivesigns, recording history,building walking tracks, and more! Many of ourlocal groups work on public land, helping to create the natural havens we allenjoy.

Didyou knowwehave30landcareand friends groups in the MountAlexander region?Thisisthe highest density of landcaregroupsinthe world! These groups sharemorethan 930 members who, in 202324, committed 13,094 volunteer hourstohelping our local environment– whata greateffort!

As well as receiving joyfromknowing theyare helping our environment, manylandcarersreport thatbeing involved in landcarehelps them to makewonderful social connections and is greatfor their mental health.

What areyou waiting for? Youcan find outabout these local groups on theConnecting Country website (www.connectingcountry.org.au)and getplanting today.

Restoringthe mountain’swaterways

As the Winter Solstice approaches, the Macedon and Mount Macedon LandcareGroup has been preparing to launcha visionary plan forthe restoration of local waterwaysonthe southern slopes of MountMacedon.

“Weworked with ourlandcarefacilitatortoidentify seven stretches of local creeks forregeneration, thatwill help wildlife move,feed and breed across the area, and improve waterquality forthe whole Maribyrnong River,"said Kate Lawrence, MMMLG president.

"We’ve written abrochurethatexplains thelay of the land and the waterways, the threats and challenges facing them and how as acommunitywecan makea real difference.

"We’ve also commissioned astrategy report from ecologist Geordie Scott-Walker,which goes into detail about the mountain environmentand each stretchofcreek, and we’reinviting the local community to aWinterSolsticecelebration to launchboth!" she added.

This eventwill provide aunique opportunity forthe community to come together,learn about the local environmentand to be part of acollectiveeffort to create ashared vision to protect the lands, waterwaysand wildlifeofthe Macedon region.

Threespeakerswill lead discussions –Tori VincentfromMelbourne Water, Geordie ScottWalkerand Kate Lawrence. They will be followedbya Q&Asession and conversations over supper

Thelandcaregroup acknowledges the support of the Garden Lovers Fair and Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil.

More information about theproject can be found at www mmmlandcare.org.au

Investing in renewables

Thestate governmenthas announced that$3.3 billion of renewable energy investmenthas been fast-tracked under the DevelopmentFacilitation Program, unlocking newprojects and creating local jobs.

Sinceexpanding theDFP last year to include renewable energy,13projects have been approved –creating about 1000 new jobs in construction and operations.

Once completed, these projects will collectively generateenough powerfor 330,000households annually,withbattery storagecapacity sufficienttomeetpeak evening demand forapproximately 790,000 homes.

Theapproved developments include a rangeofrenewable projects including five battery storagesystems, sevensolar farms andone wind farm.

TheMacedon and MountMacedon Landcare Group has plans forthe restoration of local waterwaysonthe southern slopes of MountMacedon.

Repair Café at Woodend

The Woodend Repair Café is open on the first Saturdayofevery month, coinciding with the Woodend Farmers Market Anyone is invitedtogoalong and enjoy acup of teawhile volunteers mend your household items.

This includes furniture, wooden items, hand sewing, toyrepairs, sharpening scissorsand knives.

TheWoodend Repair Café in theUndercroftatWoodend Neighbourhood House. If youcannotmakethe date,you candrop offyour items formending to the Woodend Neighbourhood Housebetween 9am -3pm Monday to Friday.

A fantastic range of quality kitchenware and when you need something special Shop 4/130 High Street WOODEND 3442 5427 4500

podcast challenge

Year 11 students from Sacred Heart CollegeKynetonhavebeenpart of an exciting, hands-on media project empowering them to become changemakersinyouth mental health.

Funded by the Murray Primary Health Network and facilitatedbyAnglicare, this podcast challengefits seamlessly into the VCEVocational Major curriculum, as well as building technicaland communication skills.

Students researched arangeofwellbeing issues including mental health, substanceuse and gambling harm, preparinga rangeofquestions before hostingpodcast interviews with local youth services and lived experience speakers

issues, Ienjoyed hearing their stories and also learning howtothink on thespotand signal othersinmyteam when it wastime forthem to be involved in the interview,” Saffron said.

“I hope the podcasts reach people who maybestruggling with similar issues and provide some support and information about ways to gethelp,”Liam said.

VCEcoordinatorJodie Wattie said the Podcast Challengewas agreat real-life experiencefor the students.

"Theygot to work with state-of-the-art equipmentand professionals who work in the media,"MsWattiesaid.

offering the school with the most listened to podcasts the chancetowin a$3000 podcast kit.

Sacred HeartCollegeiscompeting in the challengealongside schools in the Loddon Mallee region including Gisborne Secondary Collegeand KynetonHigh School.

e: hello@pestle com au www pestle com au

Thestudents found the experience of working with RalphBarba and the team from Making Media eyeopening.

“Itwas so interesting talking with people who have firsthandexperienceofthese

Dr.Sunny has gained valuable experience working in communities along the MurrayRiver

After completing her medical education in Malaysia, she began her career as aHospital Medical Officer at AlburyWodonga Health.

She later continued hergeneral practitioner training in Echuca, whereher passion for supporting rural communities grew evenstronger

As astrong believerinthe adage “prevention is betterthan cure,” Dr.Sunnyisdedicated to empowering patients to takecontrol of their health.

Her areas of interest include lifestyle medicine and mental fitness, two pillars of her holistic approach to patient care.

Outsideofwork, Dr.Sunny enjoys painting, staying activeatthe gym, and practicing yoga,embracing creativityand mindfulness in her daily life.

Kyneton Medical Centreoffers patient centred carefor your family. Kyneton Medical Centre, experienced medical care for the whole family We areopen MondaytoFriday8am-6pm andSaturdaymornings 9am-12pm Appointments can be made anytime via our website kynetonmedical.com.au

9-11Market Street, Kyneton –5422 1397 reception@kynetonmedical.com.au www.kynetonmedical.com.au

"The experienceswerehighly engaging and motivating forour students and the increased confidencedemonstrated by the students wasa delighttoobserve.”

Thepodcasts arepart of aPodcast Challengeinvolving schools across Victoria,

Therecordings have been edited and arenow available to hear via podcast [www.bit.ly/SHCK2025_PodcastChallenge].Anyone wanting to see the students and their guests in action, can visit [www bit.ly/SHCK_2025PodcastFlipbook]to view aflipbook including interviewvideos. Allinthe Vocational Major team would love readerstofollowthe link and listen to the podcasts, it’sagreat waylearn more about theresourcesavailable forsupport in the Macedon Ranges –and support the students in theChallenge.

Year 11 VCE– VM students enjoythe podcast experiencefromleft,Grace,Saffron, Liam andSarah.

GVLand MacedonRangesartists unite

Acreativebuzzissweeping through theMacedon Ranges, and it’sall thanks to an old shoemaking tool andastory thatstretches from Maltato Kyneton.

People of all generations across the Macedon Ranges areinvited to take part in TheLast Exhibition: Lasting Impressions,a unique community art project thatplacesanunusual object at the heart of the work: the shoemaker’sLast— awooden form onceused by master craftsman Emmanuel Camilleri.

These lasts, somedating back morethan 70 years, were once centralto afamily shoemaking business that made everything from royalslippersto wartimeboots, and spyfootwear. Now, they’vebeen passed into the hands of locals, who areusing them as the base or inspiration fororiginal artworks.

Forthree weeks over June and July,The OldAuction House in Kynetonwill fill withthe results—dozens of works createdbylocals, shaped by theimagination and energy of generations old and new.

Theexhibition is an opportunityfor artists to sharetheir stories, express their identity,spark their imagination, and meaningfully connect with the broader communitythrough art.

Forthe artists involved, it’sa rare chance to take part in apublic exhibition and to connect with apieceofcreativehistory.Some artists arepainting directly onto the Lasts. Others areincorporating them into sculpturalpieces or using them as aspringboardfor broader creativeideas. Theonly common thread is the object itself—solid, wooden, and rich with the marks of time.

It seems those small wooden forms, oncetuckedawayina shoemaker’s workshop, aresteppingintoa newlife—this time shaped by the hands of the future.

Theexhibition opens on June 26 and runs until July 14. Entryfor participants is open now. Thepublic is warmly invited to viewthe works, most of which will be forsale.

To find outmoreand getinvolved, go to events.humanitix.com/lastingimpression

Woodend Winter Arts Festivalkicks offthis weekend

Thestageisset as Woodend prepares to come alivewithmusic, conversation and moreasthe Woodend Winter Arts Festival returnsthis coming weekend (June 6–9).

Ticketsare sellingfast and at pre-pandemic levels. Celebrating its 20th festival in 2025, the eventpromisesarich and diverse programthatcaters to alltastes—froma late-nightjazz session to classical music recitals and family-friendly Cinderella,theatre,thought-provoking talks and insightful literary discussions.

Hear exclusiveperformances by international artists, including Moroccan vocalist Lamiae Naki and her ensemble Seffarine (selling fast), Italian baroque violinist Davide Monti, and Austrian violinist Anne Harvey-Nagl (selling fast).

Literatureloverswill be treatedtoaspecial appearancebyThe Age Book of the Year winner RodneyHall, whowill discuss his celebrated novel Vortex.Other highlights include acaptivating lectureonWilliam Morris (selling fast), alively conversation with renowned gardening expert andlocal identity Michael McCoy, andarareinsightintothe lifeofJane Austen’s family,sharedbyher great-nieceCaroline Jane Knight(also selling fast) and local legend Michael Dillon’s film, which is about to sell out, plus much more.

Festival favourites arealso back, including book signings and author meet-and-greets at the Woodend Community Centre.The ever-popular Scouts LogCabin Café will be serving hearty soups, toasties, and homemade cakes, while TheGallery Mt Macedon will host afreeexhibition and creativeworkshops at the Woodend Neighbourhood House.

With its uniqueblend of culture, conversation and country charm, the Woodend Winter Arts Festival is settobeaheartwarming highlightofthe Macedon Ranges wintercalendar

Don’tmiss out. Ticketsare available nowat woodendwinterartsfestival.org.au

Retracing the works of S.T. Gill

ThePlein AirExhibition in the MANetGallery is a contemporary interpretation of the Maldon and District Goldfields by local artists exploring the theme of plein air paintings as theyare today, retracing the works of S.T. Gill.

Thelocal area is arich source of inspiration with intriguing rock formations, aged gum trees and the big sky

Exhibiting artists areJennifer Barnett,Mark Fuller,Neil Gude, Michael Lee, LynetteMcNaughton, Jennifer Merkus Brendan Nicholl, Lisa Nolan, RinkeSlotegraaf, SmileyWilliams, Jennifer Stewar, Fionna Madigan, Catherine Tait, Liadaan, Mary Caspar,Karren Holland.

This incredible exhibition will be on displayatthe MANet Art Gallery,27Main Street Maldon, until June 23.

Thegallery is open FridaytoSaturday11am to 3pm. Enquiries to 0419 119 047.

Anne Marie Farrugia and MollyHindson with their Lasts.

Anne Harvey-Nagl (violin),exclusivetoWWAFfromVienna, will perform with John O’Donnell (piano)in‘Brahms, Sonatas forPiano and Violin’. Photo: Nancy Horowitz

Local plein air painterBrendan Nicholl.

@ YourOPINIONS

Climate Change is Fact

Kate, Taradale

Iamwondering whythe letter ('Just likethe Aztecs', Opinions,May 20) waspublished,given the gross misinformation thatwas represented?

An opinion, when clearlynot evidencebased and presentedina public forum, gives it aweightand a platform that it doesn't deserve.

Climate ChangeisFact.Denial and resultant inaction around climatechangecan causeharmto people's mental healthand wellbeing.

Acceptanceofclimate changeallows the focus to be on solutions. It encourages investment, technological advancementand subsequenteconomic benefit, while protecting our beautiful environment.

With youthful exuberanceand hope, our planet and our children's future is bright.

Paying more for less

Ian MacBean, Trentham

Trentham is up in arms about increased ratesand cutsinservicesinHepburn Shire.

Hepburn’s application fora 10% rate hike(7% on topofthe 3% rate cap) wasapprovedbythe Essential Services Commission –withcautionsand acall forfurther action.Tobalancethe budget,council is also cutting $2.6M in services.

In response to communityconcerns, the local town committee, Trentham CommunityAction, has organised twowell-attended public meetings to inform the community.CrBrian Hood provided a factual presentation, as requested. Discussion at the March19meeting raised the question of the longterm viability of the shire.

This concern escalatedatthe May21meeting when aquestion wasasked about the proposed residential rate in Hepburn(0.002407) compared to Macedon Ranges (0.0019288) –a25% difference.

SUPER QUIZ?

Local knowledge (1 point)

1. Wheredid filming fora newApple TV miniseries take placelastmonth?

2. Wherewill the inaugural Young MarkersMarket be held?

3. What is thepostcode forGisborne?

4. Teenager Thomas Beacheywon the RSL Singles Knockout Championship at which golf club? (3 points)

5. ‘Truth –you couldn’t make this stuff up’isthe themeofwhich upcoming festival?

General knowledge (1 point)

6. What belovedAustralian actress and comedianwas recently diagnosed with an aggressivebloodcancer?

7. Which country claimsthe onlynational flag thatisn’t rectangular?

8. What is theItalian word forcake?

9. What pieceofcutlery,combining a fork, spoon and knife, wasinventedby an Australian? (3 points)

10. HowmanyPrime Ministershas Australia had.

This wasfollowedbycalls forour elected representatives at local and statelevel to seek an urgent reviewofHepburn’s viability and shireboundaries. Concern wasalsoraised about the 1-in-3 households in theshire that arealready in arrears on their rates(over$3M), manybeing over12 months overdue.

My understanding of the situation is thatthe rateincreases and cuts in services will only achieve a‘holding situation’with no scope fornew assets or funds to address emergencies.

This is notsustainable in the longer term.

The Member for Woodside?

Bernard Tonkin,Castlemaine

If Lisa Chesterssaid she wasnot opposing dozens of newcoal-fired powerstations would youlose faith in her?

Well Labor has just approvedanother step closer to theemissions equivalent(according to The Australia Institute) –Woodside’s North West Shelf export gas processing expansion. Barely aweek afterthe latest unprecedentedclimate driven flood disaster on the mid north NSWcoast. Thehypocrisy is unbearable with Albo out comforting the victims. During theelection campaign we heardMs Chestersrepeating the line thattheyonly approved fossil fuelprojects that‘stackedup’ environmentally and economically

Howeverthe IPCCscientists statedin early 2023 –therecan be no newfossil fuel projects if we are to have anychanceofaligning withParis. If Ihear Ms Chesterssay that one moretime Idon’t knowif I’ll cryorbesick.

Australia’s lieisthatwedon’t have to include the fossil fuels we export in our national emissions target. Those emissions aresomeone else’s responsibility –the drug dealer’sdefence

Buthere’sanother rub foranyonewho cares

about social justice– theMelbourne Unireport '10 YearsBeyond Bushfires' p. 13 found thatwomen in the disaster aftermath were seventimes morelikely to be assaulted.

Butwait, the fossil fuel industry includingWoodside donated$1.8 million in 2023-4 to both Labor and the Coalition according to Market Forces.SoI’m calling out Lisa Chestersasthe 'Member forBig Business' –not themember forordinary people likeEchuca andRochester flood victims, who only remain to sufferthe consequences of her (aswell as the Libs/NatsCoalition)failureto be in solidarity withregional people on climate justiceissues.

Amust-see film

Fiona Purvis, McKenzieHill

Ijust want to alert people to the wonderful and very compelling film Isaw at BendigoCinemas last week, Ocean,with DavidAttenborough.

In our daily lives we don’t tend to think of theoceans and marine life, but he brings it all to life andintofocus withthe wonderful filmingand commentary with the perspectiveofhis long life.

Thedestruction beneaththe wavesand on the seabed caused by themany fishing trawlersthatoperate dayand nightall overthe worldistragic and devastating. He points to the fact that when the fishing is stoppedthe marine lifebounces back. When natureisleftalone it recovers fully

So in June this year therewill be ameeting of theUNin France withaproposal to stop trawling and fishing in athirdofthe oceans so thatthe marine lifeand humankind can benefit. It will stop the depletion of marine lifeand makefishing sustainable again. Ithink the film is amust-see if youcareabout our planetand itsfuture.Attenborough makes the pointthatwhen the marine life, plants etc.are intact, theocean is acarbon sink and abulwark against global warmingand climatechange.

Machetes are also tools

Roland Mugford, Drummond

Obviously we allwantanend to criminal activity using weapons but when notusedfor foul purpose, some aresimply tools.

Forexample, Iliveonsix acres of scrub bush and constantly have to cut thistle, gorse, blackberry,coffeebush and more.Electrical or mechanical methods arenot usable in manycircumstances.

In the news reports of thenew machete legislation, Isaw ownership is going to be illegal. This is certainly ridiculous onmostcountry properties. Iuse differentblade types, lengthand weightfor differentpurposes.

Note:how is machete or similar legally described?

Ihaveacouple of questions.

1. Will therebe an option and necessity to register such tools?

2. Will this laterinclude hand axes, small logsplitters,crowbars, pruning saws,chisels, etc.?

Theremustbe focuson reality fortool users, notjust rhetoric. Please ensurethatusers of tools such asthese arenot prejudiced against.

Foranother extended example, Isometimes drivebackroads in bush and oftenphone coverage is zero.I have been trappedordelayedbyfalling trees as one example. Icarry an axe, machete,long thin blade, sawand sometimes an electric chainsaworsimilar in the bootalong with otheremergency gear Will Ineed to register such ownership and transport forpurpose?

Certainly Ihavehad cause to use these tools on anumber of occasions overthe yearstoclear bush roads afterstorms.

Badly worded, defined and constructed legislation will obviously seriously impact most country or bush dwellers.

What we do todayaffectsthe future

Trace Balla, Djaara Country, Castlemaine

Iask us all whatisthe job description of an environmentminister.Protection?Regeneration?Deep care? or does our newly elected minister see it as extractiveand at whatcost to lifeonearth?

Iwas alarmed to hear the newly elected EnvironmentMinister MurrayWattintends to giveWoodside's North West Shelf Project,particularly Burrup Huband Karratha gas plant–a hugeextension, so soon afterthe election. Iask whynot before?Wouldyou have lost manyvotes forsuch an incredibly damaging waytotreat the environment–it'seasytofind the detail of the alarm. As well on Reconciliation Week of all weeks, to put at hugerisk of damagetothe Murujuga rock artworks, which areofincredible significancelocally and worldwide. Iask readerstotakeaction, speak up. I ask Lisa Chesterstolet us knowpublically her exact stanceonthis and what

We do have to change

Chris Hooper,Castlemaine

It's some months nowsince Mark Carter,ofDon't FlyAustralia, senta greatletter'Flying in the face of danger' to the Midland Express

Sincereading it, I'veheardpeople talking aboutgoing on an international trip or having returnedfroma trip.People thatI wouldthink were awareof fossil fuel usecontributing to Climate Change.

Maybe it'sthe frog in the gradually warming water? Yes, Climate Change is happening but if Itakethis flightitwon't hurt or makeitworse. Just one flight? Butweforgetthe sizeofthe plane and the fuelthatwill be used to getitall thosekilometres. Thesame withcar travel, it'sconvenientand comfortable.Weget in and forget aboutthe exhaust, we can't see it or smell it

As apedestrian Ican oftensmell car exhaust when they'vebeenidling at an intersection and takeoff.It'snot nice. Thesame with planes, youget on and sit down in acomfortable seat and away yougobut there'sfuel burnt and exhaust pouring out. As Mark said, carbon offsetsdon't work because if it'streeplanting thatwill takemanyyearstohaveaneffect and some of theseschemes have been exposed as dodgy

It's allverywell working on cutting emissions but if we keep producing them it's amerry go round. We need to draw down CO2there nowand really try to notproducemore. We do have to change our livesa bit. Have differentexpectations. We areina climate emergency,it'sa bit scary to face that, but we must

Safe Spacenew opening hours

Castlemaine Safe Spaceand Community Pantry is nowopenon Thursdaymornings, in addition to their Tuesdayand Saturdayopening hours.

SafeSpacechair HelenDewhurst said as their number of trained peer volunteersgrew, they were delighted to be able to offeranadditional opening time to thecommunity

"Weare so thankfultoeveryone who put in the hardwork to make this happen,"Helen said.

Castlemaine Safe Space, one of the firstregional Safe Spaces in Australia, opened nearly three years ago, and has been at their current location, 74 Mostyn St foralmost a year

“Now thatwehaveour own premises and thatmost people in the communityknowabout us, it is our aim to increase our availability,” Helen said. “Opening on Thursdays will allowa differentgroup of people who mayhavecommitments in the evenings and on weekends, to access the spaceand to have helpfuland supportiveconversations with our trained volunteers. Ouropening hoursmay increase further in the futureasthe number of trained volunteersincreases,”she said.

Castlemaine Safe Spacealso houses afreemini Community Pantry,which stocks canned goods, dry foods, toiletries and sanitary productslikepads and tampons, so anyone can come in during opening hoursand take whattheyneed. Again, this serviceisfreetoanyone in need.

Castlemaine Safe Spaceisa

AA meets

non-clinical, open-door service, welcoming anyone who is in emotional distress, experiencing suicidal thoughts, feeling isolated, looking forcompany, or just in need of a calm place to be or acuppa and a chat.

Everyone, including carers, are

Alcoholics AnonymousinWoodend is inviting thoseinterestedinjoining their group meets on Fridayevenings between 7pm8pm at theWoodend Neighbourhood House Garden Room

There’snosignup,costs, obligations or intrusivequestions asked. Participants can meetwith like-minded peoplewhereanonymity is respected.

invited to visit, no referrals or appointments arenecessary,and it is free.

Allwho attend arewelcomed with respect, non-judgement, and empathybyour trained peer volunteers.

We gratefully acknowledgethe

Garden call

TheWoodend Neighborhood House is inviting everyone to gettheir hands dirty and connect withlike-minded people who love growing food and caring fora community garden. Registration is free and sessions areheld on Thursdays each fortnightatthe Woodend Neighbourhood House. Thenextsession is on June 12 between 10am to 12pm.

support of funding from Murray PHN, through theAustralian Government’sPHN programme.

Opening hoursare nowTuesdays 4pm-6.30pm, Thursdays 9.30am -12pm and Saturdays1.30pm-4pm Visit www.castlemainesafespace. orgfor moredetails.

An urgent plea fornew and extended drought relieffor farmerswho have missed out in Northern Victoria has been made in StateParliament.

Last week long-serving Upper House MP Wendy Lovell highlighteddrought declarations which have been made forsome municipalities, while other shires arestill waiting for assistance.

Ms Lovell told parliament she had received an email from aMonegeetta farmer who pointedout thatHepburn Shirehad been granteddrought relief, yetMacedon Ranges Shirehad received half as much rain as in Hepburn andhad notbeen on the droughtdeclaration list.

Theparliamentarian also called foradditional funding and moredirect assistancetofarmersrequiring fodder transport and water foragriculture.

"Farmersacross Northern Victoria aredeeply distressed,"MsLovell said.

Sherevealed she has been contacted by various mayors and representatives of municipalities expressing their concerns about thetough situations in their areas.

Castlemaine Safe Spacesupporter Eliza Tree and working group member Rachel Stewart areexcited to seethe opening hours extended.

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

3MarketSt., PO Box153,Kyneton, 3444

Telephone: (03) 5422 1488

Facsimile: General (03) 5422 3173

13 HargravesSt., PO Box227, Castlemaine, 3450

Telephone: (03) 5472 1788

Facsimile: (03) 5472 4504

MondaytoFriday9.00 am-5.00 pm

HayesTuckerbag team reunites

Therewas no shortageof smiles, stories and nostalgia at TheShamrock HotelonSaturday May3,asdozens of former staff from HayesTuckerbag Supermarketgathered fora reunion.

Organised by Sharryn Smith, the eventbroughttogether past employees—manyofwhom began their working lives at the iconic Kynetonsupermarket under the leadership of Arthur Hayes. Theafternoon wasfilled with shared memories, laughter and gratitude fora man who gave so manylocalstheir first start in the workforce

Theevent wasmade even morespecial by the warm messages sentfromthose who couldn’t attend, all of which were passed on to Arthur with appreciation. TheShamrock’sHayley Wakefield and her team were also praised fortheir hospitality and helping to create arelaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

From talesofstacking shelves to late-nightshiftsand lifelong friendships formed in the aisles, the Tuckerbag reunion wasa heartfelt celebration of alocal institution and the people who made it special.

As one guest put it, “Wedidn’t just work at Tuckerbag —wegrewupthere.”

The Compost Conversation Aperfect compost recipe?

Iwas recently asked just howmuch of those carbon-rich materials, likestraw,autumn leavesand chopped up woody garden prunings, should we blend into ourcompost each time we addabucket of food scraps from the kitchen.

At YIMBYwetrain hotcomposterstoa levelwheretheyno longer need arecipe, but can intuitively ‘read’ what is needed to bring their compost into balanceasthey build, muchlikea chef blending ingredients ‘till the dish feels and tastes just right.

Butwhen we arestarting out, some measurements can be helpful.

Ideal composts have astarting carbon to nitrogen ratioof25-30 parts carbon to onepart nitrogen. Now, thisdoesn’t mean we add27bucketsofcarbon-rich straw to every onebucket of nitrogenrich food scraps,though it is an understandable mistaketomake. Even food scraps (likeall living things)will be mostly made of carbon, but will have ahigher nitrogen count, at about 15 carbon to 1 nitrogen, than straw will,atabout80:1.

Agood rough measureistogofor equal weights. Abucket of food scraps can be pretty heavy,soitwill probably be equivalentweighttoatleast two bucketsofstraw,stuffed in tight. Blended together,thiswill be closer to theideal balanceweare aiming for.

However, we’ll makea higher quality compost if one of those bucketsofstraw is replaced withhalf abucketofdry autumn leavesand half abucketofchopped up woody garden prunings. Nowwehave arecipe thatgetsthe carbon nitrogen ratio rightand also gets abettermoisture and texturebalancetoo.

Addafew more ‘just’nitrogen-rich ingredients, likehorse manureand coffee, with perhaps somericher nitrogen sources likechoppedgreen grass or leavesand

layerthem up with equivalentweights of moreofour carbon blend (straw,autumn leavesand chopped up woody garden prunings, withperhaps asprinkling of aged wood chips) andnow we have avery good compost recipe.

But, if we follow thatrecipeslavishly, and miss thefact thatour food scraps mightbevery high in nitrogen (say lots of meatsand greens)and thatour ‘straw’ wasactually pea straw (which is morelike 30:1), then ourrecipewill be toonitrogen rich and will become stinky and possibly tooheavy and airless.

So,beforewefeed our composts, regardless of recipe, it is worth taking a garden fork or compost screw and lightly lifting up whatweadded last time and have alook and asmell, and even afeel, so we canstart to ‘read’ whatisand isn’t working in our pile. We canthen adjust our recipe to respond to whatwedid last time.

Arecipe can be agreat waytoget us started, but thereisnosubstitutefor paying attention to whatishappening in our pile.

–Joel Meadows works with *Yes In My Back Yard,(YIMBY), acommunity-scale composting initiativeinCastlemaine and surrounds. Send questions or comments to hello@yimbycompost.com, or to book in fora compost workshop.

Abasic starter recipe to balancea small bucket of food scraps from the kitchen.

Arthur Hayesand HayleyWakefield from Shamrock Hotelin the old Hayesvan.

Thinking of Selling? Let’s Do It Together.

At RayWhiteKyneton,webelieve great results come from genuine partnerships. Ourexperienced sales team works closely with you everystep of the way, combining local knowledge, tailored strategies and honest advicetoachieve the best outcome. Whether you're ready to sell or just exploring your options, we’re here to help.

Tamara Mactier Director&Licenced Estate Agent

Nathanial Briggs Director&Senior SalesExecutive

SuzieBlake Sales Agent&Buyer Manager

Lilly Redpath SalesAssociate & CampaignManager

RayWhite Kyneton,proudlysponsoring the local community.

159 Dons Road, Newham ‘HillHouse’

In one of the Macedon Ranges’ most privilegedpositions atop The JimJim, Hill Housecaptures breathtakingviews of Hanging Rock, Mount Macedon and the Cobaws. Setprivately at the endofa sweeping driveway,thisarchitect-designed home offersover 50 squares of refined living,expansive entertaining spaces, athoughtfully designed kitchen and beautifully landscapedgardens. Just minutesfromWoodend, thisisa rare chancetosecurealandmark property in an extraordinary setting.

raywhitekyneton.com.au

Kyneton |5422 2127

MIDLAND Property& Living

Space, style and sustainability

Set on 25acres of rich, versatile land –half nativebushland,half open grazing –this thoughtfully designed lifestyle propertyoffersmodern living and rural freedom.

Just 15 minutes from Castlemaine and with nearbyaccess to theCalder Freeway, it'saneasy80-minutedrive to Melbourne, placing city conveniencewithin reachwhile allowing youtoembracethe spaceand serenity of off-grid country life.

Therendered home is both stylish and practical, offering four bedrooms, twobathrooms and an expansive, light-filled floorplan. Aformal frontporch sets thetone, leading into generous open-plan living framed by windows thatinvite views across open pasture. Timber floors, double glazing and awarm, neutralpalette enhancethe sense of comfort and quality throughout.

Themodern kitchen is acentrepiecefor daily lifeand entertaining alike, featuring sleek cabinetry,a largestainless

steel cooker,a walk-in pantry and plenty of bench space. A built-in bar in the second living area adds atouch of indulgence, while the large alfrescodeck offers the perfect place to enjoy long lunches and golden hour sunsets.

Themain bedroom includes awalk-in robe and ensuite with an oversizedshower. Threefurther bedrooms –all with built-in robes –are served by afull bathroom and separate laundry.Ahandy study nook completesthe well-zoned design, ideal forremote work or homework sessions.

Outdoors, the property hasbeen curated forbothlifestyle and productivity.There's plenty of spacetogrowand roam –ideal forfamilies, hobbyfarmers, or anyone craving adeeper connectiontothe land. Thegrounds include afully fenced and productiveorchard, aseparatevegetable garden, and twolarge dams thathelp maintain the property's green spaces year-round. Alarge rainwatertank supports the home, reinforcing its off-grid credentials.

Storageand working spaceare abundantwith adouble garagefeaturing apanel-lift door,a massive18m x12.4m shed/workshop –ideal formachinery,creativeprojects or storing farm equipment.

Whether you'redreaming of sustainable living, room for animals, spacefor children to explore, or just apeaceful country escape with all the modern comforts, this remarkable property delivers. It's notjust ahome –it'salifestyle.

Property: Lifestyleproperty on 25 acres

Address: 55 KennedysLane, Faraday

Price: $1,275,000

Agent: Belle Property Castlemaine Contact: RobWaller 0418 571 130 BlasiMulholland 0417 311 733

Belle Property Castlemaineand Maldon.

88 KennedyStreet, Castlemaine.

3 a 1 b 1 v 557r

•Private Victorian home on 550m²incentralCastlemaine, blending heritage charm with modern living.

•Features include timber ceilings, sunlit extension, and three spacious bedrooms.

•Lush gardens,wisteria courtyard, carport, and walkable to shops.

For Sale

$945,000 View Saturday 7th June: 10:00am-10:30am

RobWaller |0418571 130

BlasiMulholland |0417 311 733

7a StewartStreet, Castlemaine.

2 a 1 b 1 v 301r

•Stylish 2-bedroom villajust1km from town, setinabeautifully zoned garden.

•North-facing living with raked ceilings, double glazing, andquality finishes throughout.

•Features luxebathroom, euro fire, large kitchen,two outdoor areas.

For Sale

$739,000 View Saturday 7th June: 10:45am-11:15am

RobWaller |0418571 130

BlasiMulholland |0417 311 733

Lot22-38 Ireland Street, Mckenzie Hill.

504 -764r

•Selected lotsinStage 2&3available &titled.

•Blocks from504m2 -764m2

•Fully serviced residential zoned land, just 4km from Castlemaine CBD and train station.

For Sale

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

RobWaller |0418 571 130

BlasiMulholland |0417 311 733

Scan to viewour currentlistings

Charming post-modernist home in Kyneton

Nestled in alush garden createdbya member of the KynetonHorticulturalSociety,thisuniquetwo-storeyhome blends modern design with mid-century touches. Located just moments from theheart of town, it offers easyaccess to shops, schools, and eateries.

Thehome features split levels, cathedral ceilings, and timber finishes throughout. Sun-filled north-facing living spaces, arenovatedkitchen with stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances, and generous storagemakefor comfortable living.

Up to four bedrooms areavailable, including amasterwith an updatedensuite. Aspacious upstairs area, accessible via external stairs, offers endless potential as afourth bedroom, guest room,orretreat

Theprivaterear yard is perfect forrelaxation, withbrickedged gardens, asecurechicken coop,and apoweredshed/ workshop. Asealed drivewayleads to atwo-car carport

This one-of-a-kind property blends personality,quality, and convenience-an opportunity youwon't want to miss!

Property: Two-storey home in heart of town

Address: 18 Welsh Street,Kyneton

Price: $825,000

Agent: Raineand Horne Kyneton

Contact: Judith Stevens 0438 683 484

MIDLAND Property &Living

Lifestyle retreatwithadditional income option

Tucked away to the end of atranquilcountry lane witha European-style entry via a canopied driveway of conifers, youfind achalet-style home and asubstantial bespokestyle studio/workshop with aseparatedrivewaycreating awonderful rurallifestyle.

Set on approx.2.023ha (fiveacres)withthe amazing MountAlexander as abackdrop, this delightful parcelincludes established trees, adam,bore, vegetable gardens and private garden spots.

Thehome overtwo levels offers amodern well-appointedand east-facing kitchen, renovatedbathroom, bedroom and spacious open plandining family area all on the ground floor, while upstairs thereisthe flexibility of extraliving or morebedrooms with aprivatewestfacing deck to immerse yourself in the delightful sunsets.

Externally thereisa frontdeck and east-facing patio, well-fenced vegetable patchand privatefront lawn.

Beyond with aseparateentry thereisthe bespoke100sqm studio/workshop with a4.5m clearance, 30sqm mezzanine to therear as well as providing abathroom all contributing to a

number of suitable functions and potential extraincome. Thereisa second 6x9m garageas well.

Thehome and propertyare serviced by split systems,solid fuel heating, insulation, 2x20,000 litredomestic watertanks, another 25,000ltr of storagewater,6.5kw solar and much more.

Property: Chalet-style home and substantial studio/workshop

Address: 71 Faradale Drive,Faraday

Price: $770,000 -$830,000

Agent: Castlemaine Property Group

Contact: BrettFitzpatrick 0419 833 510 BrettWaller 0407 610 268

3PreshawStreet,

•Beautifully renovated white weatherboardhome in atightly held pocket of Castlemaine, featuring two light-filled bedrooms, anew kitchen and aspacious bathroom with stone bath and walk-in shower.

•North-facing deck, sun-filled living spaces, and alushgarden shaded by majestic ash trees offer atranquil, private retreat.

•Upgrades include double-glazed windows/doors, newplumbing, restumping, insulation, solar panels, gas

machines, dryers anddishwashers.

and

the surrounding areas, Including Castlemaine and the Macedon Ranges.Trustedserviceagentsfor topbrandslike Miele,Asko, Speed Queen, Electrolux, Bosch, Omega, Simpson, Dishlex, and Westinghouse. Simp www.kentappliancerepair.com.au kynetonappliancerepairs@gmail.com

Offers qualified and professional solutions to all of your tree needs. Whether you’re looking for atree removal, tree pruning or stump grinding, or have concerns about storm and wind damage to yourtrees, we have you covered.

Chris Mackenzie, owner and head climber, is aCert 3Qualified Arborist with over 15 years experience completing high level complex climbing throughhis years as one of Melbourne’s top contract climbers. Chris brings technical skills and expert knowledge to each tree job completed. Located in the Macedon Ranges, and with areputation forefficientservice and highly skilled work, Ascent Tree Solutions offers our happy customers asafe and competent service.

DENTON

Anna The Friends of Kyneton Botanic Gardens are saddened to learn of the recent passing of a founding member and staunch supporter of the group, Anna Denton. The Friends gratefully contribution helping to establish the FKBG in 2006 and her role in its success over many years. We extend our condolences to John and her family

Tim

KN284503/J

Will be dearly missed by his neighbours. Known for his gardening excellence, bee keeping, love of books, barracking for Richmond and a caring companion to his dog Sheila. We will miss seeing him walking Sheila around the cricket oval, and calling in for achat.

Mandy,Phil, Mitchell and Cooper

DOREY -Mary

Themembers of the Kyneton Croquet Club are saddened to learn of the passing of former member, Mary Dorey

Our sincere condolences to George and family

We are all thinking of you at this time.

KN284357/L

FRANCIS

Shirley Louise (nee Boyer)

Passed away May 29th 2025.

Loving wife of the late Graham Leslie (Les) and dearly loved mum of Bruce (dec) and Carol.

Reunited with her much loved husband Les. My adored mum now at rest. Now with her God and no more pain. Youwillnever be forgotten

Always Remembered

Please see Shirley’s Tribute Page at tjscottandson.com.au for funeral arrangements

KN284529/L

FRANCIS

Shirley Louise Loved daughter of the late Percy &Dorothea Boyer and dearly loved by her brother Lindsay and family Loved always

KN284530/L

FRANCIS

Shirley

Amuch loved friend

Midland Express for many years. Our sincere condolences to Carol family

ROBERTSON (Ellery)

DulcieMargaret 18.09.1934-25.05.2025

LateofTyldenand Kyneton. DaughterofErnestand VeraEllery(bothdec.). SisterofMarion. WifeofAlan(dec.). Motherof Jennifer(dec.),Barry andDenise. Adoredauntieof Beverley,Lindsay(dec.), andtheirfamilies

KN284489/J

TURVEY

Lynette

It’swith great sadness that we say farewell to our lovely sister-in-law and aunt Lynafter a very short illness.

We will miss your great roast dinners with a glass or 2ofbubbles.

Deepest sympathy to Ray,Joel, Sandra, Kane, Sharon and families.

W Danni,Aaron, Jemima and Piper

RIP

ArthurRonald Suckling (Macca)

From Korweinguboora 24.1.1934 -29.5.2025

Died peacefully,aged 91 years. Beloved husband of Monica for 62 years. Much loved father of Dennis and Colleen and friend of Robyn. Grampy to Zoe,Anna,Tomand Maiya. An old bushman gone home.

KN284518/L

Passed away peacefully on 22nd May 2025 aged 65 years young. Cherished daughter of the late Valma and Bob Sturgess. Loved sister of Raelene and Rodney Vickiand Colin (dec) Terry and Linda Julie and Colin Gayle

Devoted aunty and great aunty to all her nieces and nephews. Lynn to us you are very special, someone brave and true, you shall never be forgotten, for we thought the world of you. Now in the loving arms of mum and dad. Rest in peace our beautiful angel.

Lisbeth Margaret Thomas (Lis)

18/06/1930 –26/05/2025

Died peacefully on 26th May

Much loved wife of Bryan (deceased)

Loved and respected mother to Ross and Judy, Grant, Leon and Rachel, Guyand Delene.

Adored Grand Mother “Mardi”and Great Grand Mother.Lis wasa keen Scottish Country dancer for decades

She will be missed by her extended family and her many friends fromCastlemaine and afar Happy dancing Mum Amemorial service for Lis will be held at alater date.

Mum, you taught us boyswell in our formative years.Youcould be tough, loyal and always there for support. We had our ups and downs for sure, but time to take awellearned rest after 94 fruitful years. I’ll always rememberthe burnt pots and kettles.Your veggie soup and Christmas cakewere the best on the planet in your heyday

Finally re-united with Dad

Your loving son Grant, Grandson Bradley and wife Emma, along with great- granddaughter Matilda.

Died at Sunshine Coast, 26th May

Much loved mum and Mardie to Guy &Delene, Liam &Brit&Poppy and Cait &Mat

Many happy memories fromalifefullof kindness, love and laughter

Glad that we could love and support you in Queensland the past year

KN284410/J

Aservice to celebrate Lynn’s life will be held in the Chapel of MountAlexander Funerals, 12 Campbell Street, Castlemaine TODAY(Tuesday) at 11.00am. Following this service the cortege will leave for the Castlemaine Cemetery

To join us via livestream, please visit Lynn’stribute page on thewebsite of MountAlexander Funerals.

Lynn Sturgess

KN284519/K

Lynn Maree Sturgess

Cakes,Jams,Sauces,Books

EFTPOSAVAILABLE

Kyneton Men’s Shed Inc.

Annual General Meeting will be held at the Shed, 2Riverwalk Boulevard, Kyneton, at 11 am on Friday,July 11

Members are reminded that in order to cast votes for the president, vice president, secretary,treasurerand executive members, Membership fee is $55 and due by 30th June. This can be paid in person at the Shed or by direct debit. There will be afree lunchatthe Shed immediately following theAGM.

WHOLESALE FIREWOOD FOR SALE

Pickupyour FREE copy from an outletnear you.

KYNETON

Collins Newsagency -Mollison St

Express Office -Market Street

Fika Café

Kyneton Home Hardware

Kyneton IGA

Kyneton /Daylesford Drycleaners

Watts Fresh -Mollison Street

EG Ampol Petrol Station

MALMSBURY

General Store

REDESDALE /LANGLEY

General Store

TRENTHAM /TYLDEN

IGA Country Store

General Store

WOODEND /CARLSRUHE

IGA Woodend

Woodend Newsagency

CarlsruheRoadhouse

GISBORNE

Foodworks

Gisborne IGA

RIDDELLS CREEK

Riddells Creek Newsagency

MACEDON

Macedon IGA

Macedon Newsagency &Post Office

MT.MACEDON

Mt Macedon Trading post

ROMSEY

IGA Romsey

Coles Romsey

LANCEFIELD

Lancefield IGA

Liberty Service Station

Property ManagementMacedon Ranges

CASTLEMAINE

Ampol Service Station -Johnstone Street

Belle Property -Barker Street

Caravan Park Big -Doran Street

Castlemaine IGA -Barker Street

Castlemaine Property Group

Castlemaine Vintage Bazaar

Cumberland -Barker Street

Daily Express -C/M Railway Station

Das Coffee House -Mill-Walker Street

Hot &Crusty-Barker Street

Jellis Craig -MostynStreet

Lyal Eales -Barker Street

Maxi IGA -Hargreaves Street

Newsagency -MostynStreet

Regional Enterprise -Halford Street

Tingays smash repairs -Elizabeth Street

CHEWTON /TARADALE

ELPHINSTONE

Grist Bakery -WesleyHill

East EndServo -Main

Chewton Post Office

Elphinstone Post Office

Taradale Metro Fuel

HARCOURT

Post Office

Harcourt BP

CAMPBELLS CREEK /GUILDFORD

Mt Alexander Timber &Hardware

Campbells Creek Post Office

Five Flags Merchants

Guildford Post Office

NEWSTEAD

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More recognition

Bill West

It is almost ayear since Akasha Fortune wonthe Under 18 girls' singles bowls championship at the Australian Open on the Gold Coast.

Nowthe teenager,who first played bowls at theage of eightwithRomseyand has graduatedthrough theranks, has received morerecognition.

Akasha has just been named as thenumber one Under 18 female bowler of the year for2023-24.

Aregular in Club Sunbury'sstrong pennantteam, Akasha has ambitions to gain a spotinthe Victorian open women's team

With strong encouragementfromher family,she left bowls at Romsey to pursue moreopportunities at Sunbury,whereher father Dannyhas also been playing forsome years.

Akasha wasattending KynetonHigh School when she wonthe U18 girls' singles championship and has promotedbowls as a sport foryoungsters.

Bowls can be alifetime involvement, and Akasha attributes her greaterconsistency to the levelshe has been playing with and against

Shestill has fond memories of becoming the girls' pairs champion when she was13, in companywithLily Dodd (Bacchus Marsh)

Club leaders back

Lancefield Bowling Club members have re-elected outgoing executivemembers fora further term.

Theclub'sannualmeeting attracteda good attendanceonSundayafternoon.

Jeff Smith wasre-electedunopposed as president, withJeffHolmes vice-presidentand BevHolmes secretary.Chris Jolly continues as treasurer Reports summarised thepast12 months' activities, and the treasurer revealed the club wasinastrong financial position.

Thepresidentthanked all who had assisted in anyway,and therewas ageneral themethatincreased membership would makethe club stronger in the future.

It wasdecided Lancefield would apply to field teamsindivisions one and three

in Saturdaypennant, and in division two formidweek pennant.

General committee memberselected were Howard Matthews,Ann Shipcott, David Safstrom, RussellDavies, and Ken Johnston.

Thematch committee comprises Howard Matthews,JeffHolmes, Nicholas Shannon, Leon Howlett and PeterWhite. Membership fees areunchanged for 2025-26.

Thecondition of the green was praised, with special thanks extended to Craig Vincentfor his expertise. Jeff Smith continues as greens director Anyprospectivebowlerswill be warmly welcomed.

Newsheltersaround the green perimeterare in the course of construction.

Daffodils celebratewin

TheKynetonDistrictTennis Club had their Grand Final forthe TuesdayLadies Social Comp to mark the end of the season last week.

TheDaffodils team secured victory against theDaises in ahard-foughtcontest, followedbya season presentation and lunch.

Thesocial leagueisfor anyfemales wanting to playtennis in anon-serous environment, and ages rangeanywherefrom 30 to 80 yearsold.Teams arecomprised of four players andsplit evenly based on ability RobynBaker,a committeemember of

the Ladies Social Club, said therewas no training and all skill levels were welcome.

"We've hadabout 29 members this season, and we go down every Tuesdaymorning at about 10 o'clock to have ahit. There's no experience needed,"she said.

"The last twoseasons has seen many newplayers join the TuesdayLadies Social Comp and we welcome anyone who would liketohaveafun,social game of tennis next season."

Theseasonbegins in September and runs through to Maythe following year Those interested in joining can contact Robynon0427 029 111.

TheDaffodils team pose fora victory photo

Flashback: Akasha Fortune with the Australian Open girls’Under 18 singles trophy.

Seniors

GOALS: Gisborne: PMcKenna 4DJohnstone 2MMerrett 2T

Werner HManders JGrayZDenahy. BEST: Gisborne: JGray MMerrett BBernackiPMcKenna ZVescoviJDenahy.

GOALS: Gisborne: Details N/A.. BEST: Gisborne: ARovereH Simpson JWaters MPontonD Weaver ZPaterson

GOALS: Castlemaine: BKeogh 3DHickey 3AGoddardT

Whaley JByrne ARixon BEST: Castlemaine: ARixon RSmith

AMedlyn BKeogh JByrne FPalmer-Jennings

Under 18s

SQUARE0.1

GOALS: Gisborne: LBorg4J Rutten 3JPalmer JMuscatA Taylor BEST: Gisborne: LHannon JRutten LBorgJMcKibbin LCarnell CBryant.

H Bourke JBartrop HElmawey BJeffrey TSalpietroZ Baunton Womens

GOALS: Castlemaine: HSheahan 2M Hartley 2CMcLennan

CMcConachyJEyreR Fejo JWatson. BEST: Castlemaine:

PBalta RJenkins HSheahan KHuntly CMcLennan C McConachy

Reserves

Seniors

GOALS: Maldon:DKelly 3NMcLaren ANancarrow BEST: Maldon: AWoodman DKelly DWust MJohns MGrayXNoy

GOALS: Trentham: JRegan 2C Webber-Mirkin2J Dovaston

AFerrier.Harcourt: PChaplin MMcKnight TStefaniw BEST: Trentham: TFordAFerrier MPeeler TFuller JDovaston T Boyer. Harcourt: MNoonan JThrelfall CThiesz TMcKnight

JHogg OMcKay

GOALS: Newstead:BMoran 2N Lord BMcDougall HHall

MDalrymple BMcMurtrie BRichardson EMaltbyJEntwisle

BEST: Newstead: HHall EMaltbyBRichardson AMayes B MoranN Woodman

Jardine CWaters RMuscat.

GOALS: Campbells Creek:HBarnes 2J BenbowDStevens

BEST: Campbells Creek:DStevens TLangley MLangley B Dunne NO’Brien HMelrose

GOALS: Harcourt: JHardy 5LMcKay 4J Archer 4C Waycott 2. Trentham: EWalsh. BEST: Harcourt: KSimmons LMcKay O Long CWaycott JHardy JArcher.Trentham: AShawD Sutton FWalsh KShiner (UA) NCassidy EWalsh

GOALS: Maldon:J McLeod BEST: Maldon:JSmith T Rowbottom RDavey ATurner HMcMullan JMcLeod Under 14.5s

GOALS: Newstead: BBright4 TDaldy 2LShuttleworth PBlake HBlake WGarsed BEST: Newstead:W Garsed W Bunting BBrightT DaldyFArmstrong LCaruso-Ascui.

GOALS: Trentham: JReid2 JLeong 2BHolden. Harcourt: SLane 2J MuscatJDorian BEST: Trentham: HThompson HEdmondston HLeong WHopper Lstringer GPowney. Harcourt: HHayes APhillips JMuscatCLyneK Waddington JDorian

GOALS: Campbells Creek:MAnderson AJones BEST: Campbells Creek:B Taylor MAnderson NJones RRoberts B Pagano BReidie

CARISBROOK

GOALS: Maldon:Details N/A.. BEST: Maldon:F Cullen S Gross AWebster ZDyerA Turner CJennings

GOALS: Trentham: JMurphy3BCole2HSundblom L Kennedy SEvans.Harcourt: JGale2PPolychronopoulos B Leech AStephens KGibson. BEST: Trentham: JMurphyH

Sundblom QKinnell CWhelan JCutler.Harcourt: SKerrJ Burns JMcMahon CDickman JGale HBrereton

GOALS: Maldon:Details N/A..

Maldon:APascoeA NancarrowT MerloD Dyer NJennings OMcGregor

GOALS: CN Kelly. BEST: Maldon:BRowbottom BBrackley MTurnerLGiofrelle COrton MMitchell

GOALS: Newstead: PNetherwayCElderfield DGordois BEST: Newstead: CDeBono SShovanDGordois ZAshbyB JacksonCElderfield

We have our croquet finalists!

Aftera very competitiveseven rounds in Division 3ofthe Northern District'sautumn 2025 croquet pennantcompetition, we nowhaveour four finalists forthe forthcoming finals playoffs.Three teams finished with fivewins each, separated by just thenumber of individual games won, while Macedon's Mt Charlie rallied to takethe final spot.All four finalists are from different clubs, and all finished with awin in thefinal round, leaving the table unchanged.

TheMaldonites (Rod Bennett and Gary Dykes) finished top-of-the-table by virtue of adefault by Mt Towrongdue to illness, finishingwith fivewins and 31 games won, justahead of KynetonYellow (Margaret Parker and Judy Aldred) with five wins and 29 games won. In winning their last roundagainst stablematesKynetonGreen (JennySymons and David Laird) by 5-1 games, KynetonYellowquashed thechallengeofthe Greenteamwho were in contention forthe fourth spot in the finals. In thirdplace,also on fivewins butwith 23 games won, were theGolden SquareMagpies (Allan and LynBreen)who defeatedtheir ownstablemates Golden Square(NigelGauland KathyMontgomery)by4-2 games. Macedon Mt Charlie (Elizabeth Payneand Olwyn Snape) had astrong return to form with a6-0 win in thefinal roundoverthe Quarry Hill Parrots (Christine Scottand Kerryn Lacey) and clearly secured the last spotfor thefinals, particularly with thedemise of the Kyneton Greenthreat.

TheMaldonites will nowplayKynetonYellow in the first semi-final, the winner to go straightintothe grand final; the loser gets asecond chanceagainst thewinner of the other semi-final between the GS Magpies and Macedon Mt Charlie, with thegrand final to be playedintwo weekstime.

Gwen’s bigday out

Shereckoned it could be her lasthurrah, but judging by the wayshe wasplaying on Friday,GwenByrne's croquet playing days arefar from over.

Eightplayers from KynetonCroquetClub, including recently turned 92-year-old Gwen, headedupthe highway to play afriendly (but serious)match against aCastlemaine team, known as the IGAChallengedue to their sponsorship. Kynetonhas wonthe last twoface-offs, but this wason Castlemaine's home courts, which aremuchfaster than the grassycourts at Kyneton.

Rightfromthe first game, Gwen andher Kyneton partner Graham Smith were unstoppable. Smith wasdoing all the defensiveshots, allowing Gwen to scorehoopsfrom the most unlikely positions. What is even moreremarkable is thatshe is probably the only playerinVictoria still playing shots side-on. This datesback to theearly days of croquet when women wore long dresses andcrinoline petticoats, and so theycouldn't swing amalletbetween thelegs. That gives an indication of howlong Gwen has been playing the sport she loves! Shemay be asmall,slight little old lady, but boy, she packs apunch andisdeadly accurate, and on the fastCastlemainecourts, youunderestimate heratyour peril! Sheand Smith were theonly pairing from either club to winall four games.

Backing them up from Kyneton were PatFahyand Margaret Parker who wonthree games, butsuffered a shocking 0-7 defeat against the top pair from Castlemaine (Nigel and Anne Harland), who were thebestperforming Castlemaine pairingwith twowins. Also with three wins for Kyneton were Darryl Chiversand David Laird, who took a hard-fought7-6 win overthe Harland team. JennySymons and Judy Aldred scored twowins.

After thefirst round, Kynetonled by 3-1 games but just twohoops. Next round, Kynetonagain scored 3-1 games, but the hoopscore wasvery close at 21-20. LikemanyanAFL game, the challengewas woninthe third quarter.Kyneton wonall four games with anine-hoop advantage. Castlemaine nevergaveupand came back to tiethe final round at two games each, and actually wonmorehoops 22-20.But it was notenough and Kynetontook the trophy(made by the KynetonMen's Shed)back down the highway with a12-4 games win and 91-81 hoops advantage. Interestingly,almost half of all the games were a7-4 result, with just the one game going to a13thhoop decider

So despite the super fastcourts, Kynetontook the bragging rights and the trophy, andGwenwenthome very tired but hugely satisfied. She'sstill gotplenty morescalps to take!

CASTLEMAINE

Afield of 65 turned out forSaturday'spar event, and it wasEast Geelong visitor Peter Kompes (21) who had aday to remember, beating all the locals witha fine +5 forthe overall and C-grade awards.

Hotonhis heels wasMarty Cross (18) with +3.

Newmember ScottTinkler (11) was impressiveintaking out A-grade finishing square, on acountback from Matthew O'Brien (3).

Liam O'Brien (12) topped B-grade with +2, from Garry Rotteveel (14) square. Malcolm McKellar eagled the 17th, and NTPswenttoRotteveel and TomSummers.

Players in the morning 9@9 stableford waited forthe frost to clear, and then it was Marj Lang (18) who wonwith 19 points, one clear of newmember SallyMcOrist (26).

In Thursday'sstableford,Ian Clark (23) had astellar daywith 38 pointstobeoverall and B-grade winner,one ahead of Trevor Bray (16).

Greg Crowe (7)led the wayinA-grade with 36 points, edging out ScottTinkler (10) on acountback.

Crowe also had twobirdies, as did Ben Christmas, and shared NTP honourswith Rotteveel.

Tuesdayladies: Bronwyn Gudgeon (23) had 34 points, one clear of Mary Harris (31) and Marj Lang (20). HelenMcEwenclaimed NTP

GISBORNE

Gisborne women arecontinuing their greatregional form, with KarenDillion, Linda Lanham and Roberta Henry winning the Axedale Federation BowlonFriday. They hadacombined 94 points, and made it twobowls in afortnightfor club players

Saturday'sperfect conditions enticed 190 players to competeinthe stableford andthe first round of the snow-coveredWinterCup A-grader Luke Harfordisleading the pack with the day'sbest round of 41 points.

AshleyArul wonB-grade with 39 points and Michael McCormickhad the same tally in C-grade.

Rising star LettiSacco wonthe women's section with 39 points.

On ThursdayMichael Kaufman topped Agrade with 38 points, Phil Tsamados B-grade

Town &District

GOLF results

with 35, and JimEdmond shone in C-grade with 39.

Thewomen had aYellowTee challenge on Wednesday, andDao Lock chalked up another win in A-grade with35points. Margaret Parker took out B-grade with39.

KYNETON

Howcan youget three individual winners from one playing group?Whatabout two from the samefamily?

This wasthe wash-up from the Jellis Craig stableford on SaturdaywhereAdam Smith, presidentJonathan Beacheyand his RSL knockout champion son Thomas played together and took out the three grade prizes.

Smith (10) had 33 points to beatPete Robbins (5) by one, despitemissing half a dozenmakeable putts forbirdies on the back nine. "Puttingpractise this week" was his response.

Jonathan (14) and Thomas (19) both carded 39 to win by three, withDavePilcher (15) runner-upagain. He mayaswell be called vice-champion!

Rachael McAndrew (24) had33points to win the women's section by one from Teoate Davies (17).

NTPswenttoNoel Alldis, Neil Majewski, ColHudgson, Smith and Jonathan Beachey (also super pin).

Craig Fitzpatrick (25) wonThursday's nine-hole shootout with 20 points, from Neville Yateson18.

Wednesdaywas abig dayfor theclub's captains and hardest-working members.

Julie Harris (16) completedahat-trick of midweek wins with David Austin (16) posted 38 points early with plenty of fine putts to claim along-overdue win. TimMunro(22) had 37.

Theencouragementaward went to Julie McKellar with 21 points, and NTPs were McAndrew,Harris, McKellar and Pat Clohesy.

Thebiggest field of theweek waslast Tuesdayas60women from 10 clubscompetedinHardwicks 4BBB stableford

Riverside's Christine Andrews and Yvonne Briggs were the winnerswith 47 points, from Castlemaine's Julie Bottomley and JanBarrattwith45, and JennyCutter andAnne McKeon from Trentham thirdona countback.

NTPswenttoMcKellar,Michelle Werner, Julie Corbett (Riverside)and Julie Bartholomew (Trentham).

LANCEFIELD

Neil Park (16) wonSaturday'spar event with an excellent+6.

But13-year-old DarcyCreer continues to steal the limelight, being runner-up on +4 as his handicap tumbled from 34 to 29 in a week.

Then newcomer Dave Bentleyshowedhe wasa forcetobe reckoned with by scoring a hole-in-one on the difficult 5th withhis third cardgoing in fora handicap.

Thewomen were busyonWednesdayas Jenni Vennell (26) scored 34 points to finish eightclear of Kaylene Cruise (23) to takeout the2025 silver spoon.

In the 'rest of thefield' stableford Di Rohde (34) had 41 points from Vennell on 34, with recent newmember Samantha Strano (43) thirdon 32. NTPswenttoStrano, Glenda Bentleyand Wendy Nicholas.

Thursday Fix: Dean Budde (15) 38 points from PeterMcGill(9) 35.

Legends: Graham Mau(15) 34 ona countbackfromDenis Davenport (6).

Golfersinterested in the special membership offerand 'The Winter 1000' eventcoming up should go to the club website.

MOUNTMACEDON

Afinal round 65 offthe stick on Saturday wassufficient to giveAlexFraserhis fourth successiveclub championship Fraser,who plays from ahandicapof1, took advantageofthe ideal conditions that were in direct contrast to the persistent rain and horrendous winds in the first two rounds.

His65was the best of theday and included eagles onthe 9thand 14th,ensuring he kept thenearest chasersatbay

Other Duncan BeatsonMemorial championship stroke winnerswere:

Seniors: Paul Burrows(33) 233.

B-grade: Nick Ciesielski(12) 248. C-grade: IsaacGolden (19) 264. Handicap winnersfor the 54 holes were: A— Mick Doyle(8) 199 nett; B— Marcus Ward (15) 211; C— PeterPalmer (21) 217. TheGisborne Foodworks Maymonthly medal wasalso contested, with C-grade's Isaac Golden the winner witha fine80-1961.

Runner-up and A-grade winner wascaptain Mick Doylewith 71-7-64 on acountbackfromFraser VisitorSam White's79-14-65 wasbestin B-grade.

NTPswenttoFraser, Ward,Whiteand Ciesielski.

Last Wednesday'send of themonth team eventwas athree-person Ambrose.

ThewinnerswereTeam Watt,Urenand Taylorwith 66-9-57, from Scanlon, Smitheram and Clarewith 65 offthe stick fora nett 57 1/6th

ROMSEY

Sherif Abdel-Sayedreturnedthe best score of 102-29-73 to earn the MayMedal. MalMottram,Mick Squire,Simon Donovan, Luke Lyonsand Brad Klaaysen all had nett 75s.

Klaaysen had the longestdriveand was aNTP winner as wasSteve Hehir.Andrew Clementhad the least putts.

RobMcDonald had 86-15-71 in Wednesday'sstrokeevent,fromHughWilliams9417-77 and women's medal winner Darlene Baker94-16-77.

NOTE: Thefuneral forlifemember Bruce Robb is to takeplace at 2pm this Thursday, June 5, at RomseyMechanics Hall. He joined Romsey GC over 70years ago.

TRENTHAM

In perfect conditions on Saturday, 55 turned outfor the men's stableford,with C-grader Mark Myers(25) havingthe day's besttally of 38 points.

Liam Murray (5) wasthe A-grade winner with 37 points, on acountback from Garry Ford (7).

In B-grade TimFletcher (17) had 36 to be one clear of LesHealey(15).

ThiNgo had 36 points to win the women'sstableford from Caroline Johnston on 33

WOODEND

Captain Glenn Wright(5) finished up with +1 on Saturday to win the A-grade par event from Warren Else (3).

SimonJames (16) topped B-grade with +2, on acountback from Kobe Veitch. JenHunter(21) continued her fineform to captureC-grade with -1 on acountback from Pete Elliot (21).

Tuesday stableford:Damian Webb (9) 36 points from Paul Whelan (11) on 35.

Ninety-two-year-old

GwenByrne (centre) watches herKyneton partner Graham Smith line up ashot, carefully watched by Castlemaine’s HeatherCrawleyand SteveDuffy

GKUsends powerful message

Gisborne-KynetonUnited delivered another commanding performanceinRound 7ofthe EDFL Division 2season, taking on East Sunbury Thunder at Sankey ReserveinGisborne.

Before the firstbounce, GKU players donned redarmbands in solidarity with clubs across Victoria, taking astand against the recent funding cuts to the Office forWomen in Sportand Recreation. Thegesturealso honoured the 31 women who have tragically lost their lives to gender-based violenceinAustralia this year —a powerful reminder thatfooty can be aplatform forbothcommunity and change.

On the field, GKU were relentless. In atrue team effort, the side boasted 14 separategoal kickersinagamethatshowcased their depth and cohesion. Todorovic starred in both the midfield and forwardlines, putting in astandoutall-round performancewith 10 goals to her name. Williams wasclinical in frontofgoal, finishing withfour majors.

Themidfield brigade fired on all cylinders, with Macumber and Hateleydominating the centre clearances, setting thetonefor GKU’sfast, attacking play. On thewings, Dickins and Chadwick were tireless, driving relentless pressureand linking up well to maintain the team’s fast-flowing style of football. Theusual GKU backline gottheir changes in the forward, with Sinclair,Mitchell, Lenius, Brancatisano and Peterson all kicking abag of goals to cap offa greatday at Sankey

With momentum continuing to build, GKU’sstrongshowing sends aclear message, theyare theteam to beatthis this season.

GKU 32.20.212 defEastSunbury 0.1.1.

Best: Alexia Todorovic, Cheyene Macumber,Belinda Hateley, Ayesha Nicholson, AmyO'Kelly,Olivia Peterson.

Riddell excited after abig day

Bill West

What aSaturdayfor Riddell footballers! Theseniorsdemolished Gisborne Giants by 157 points in the afternoon, following up avictory by the Reserves and a loss to thetop 19 &Under ladder leaders.

In the evening it wasthe turn of Riddell women to show just howmuch they have improved ina short spaceoftime.

They arepictured at Bomberland celebrating an 11.8 (74) to 0.1 (1) victory over MountAlexander Falcons. Theilluminatedscoreboardshone brightly against the nightsky

It wasthe thirdvictory in arow forthe Riddell women who now feel theycould makeanimpactin the finals.

Romseywomen had amorale boosting victory 5.2 (32) to 4.5 (29) against Melton on Saturday, and unbeatenMacedon had to work hardtodefeatLancefield 10.4 (74) to 7.4 (46).

EIGHT DOWN —NOW AFREE WEEKEND

Likeitornot,the Riddell District Football NetballLeague will be withoutany matches this coming weekend, due to theKing'sBirthdaypublicholidaynextMonday.

Forsome clubs and players, whether it be football or netball, there'sachancetotakestock of whathas occurred in the first eight rounds of matches, and whatmay lie ahead forthe remainder of the 2025 season.

Thereare players who have been carrying injuries to stayon the field, maybe notserious, but arespiteuntil the next round on Saturday, June 14, will probably be welcomed.

Then there'steams and clubs with momentum theywould probably prefer to face a'normal' weekend with matches at home or away,and aregular routine to follow.

Round nine on Saturday, June 14, promises to be abig day, and Woodend-Hesket Football Club in

particular is looking forwardtothe opening of its newnetball court, amajor project at Gilbert Gordon Reserve.

"A very extraspecial dayfor our club"ishow Hawks' senior netball coordinatorKellieDuff described June 14.

MIXTURE OF RESULTS

Round eightlastSaturday produced amixtureofresults, and here'sa point-by-pointsummation about whattook placeasfar as football wasconcerned in fine and sunnyconditions.

#Reigning premier and flag favouriteRiddell, shocked by the first loss forthe season against Diggers Rest on May17, had abye and time to contemplate before coming out to demolish Gisborne Giants by 157 points.

#Kyneton, in second place withfivewins and aloss, made a first-timetrip to Melton South and opened up with six goalsstraight in the firstterm. TheTigersthen lost momentumasthe home side showedits victory over Wallan on May24was no fluke. Acostly loss forthe Tigers

#Woodend-Hesket,buoyedby ahugewin overLancefield, went to Macedon confidentofcausing an upsetagainst the Cats. The Hawks started well but the home side had all the answersinalow scoring contest.

#Diggers Rest cruised to a105 points victory at home to Lancefield, with the Tigers still away from thatelusive first victory in 2025.

#Wallan travelled to Melton Centrals and soon put paid to any suggestion theycould struggle, withthe final margin 77 points.

LOOKING AHEAD

Round nine matches in the Riddell League on Saturday, June 14, are: KynetonvRomsey. Woodend-Hesket vMelton South.

Lancefield vRiddell. Melton Centrals vMacedon Wallan vDiggers Rest. Gisborne Giants abye

NETBALL SCORES

Round 8netball scores in the Riddell League on Saturdaywere:

A-grade: Woodend-Hesket 53 dMacedon 48, Lancefield 54 d DiggersRest 44, Kyneton57d Melton South 29, Gisborne Giants 56 dRiddell 52, Melton Centrals 44 drew with Wallan 42.

B-grade: Macedon 59 d Woodend-Hesket 41, Lancefield

93 dDiggers Rest 21, Melton South61dKyneton43, Riddell

50 dGisborne Giants 46, Melton Centrals 43 dWallan 39.

C-grade: Macedon 39 dWoodend-Hesket 18, Lancefield 46 d DiggersRest 20, Melton South 51 dKyneton22, Gisborne Giants 29 dRiddell 20, Wallan 50 dMelton Centrals 44.

D-grade: Woodend-Hesket 28

dMacedon 25, DiggersRest 31 d Lancefield 21, Melton South 36 d Kyneton 25, Gisborne Giants 28 d Riddell 14, Melton Centrals 34 d Wallan 10.

19&Under: Macedon 26 d Woodend-Hesket 24, Diggers Rest 45 dLancefield 31, Melton South74 dKyneton8,Gisborne Giants 47 dRiddell 41, Wallan 44 dMelton Centrals 23.

AmyO’Kelly wasamong GKU’s best players. Photo: Ties Urie Photography

Riddell women celebratevictory over MountAlexander Falcons.

Magpies fall short in nailbiter

TheCastlemaine Magpies lost an absolutenailbiter to theStrathfieldsaye Storm at Tannery Lane in the BendigoFootball Netball League's Indigenous Round on Saturday, going down by just twopoints. Storm were on topearly with afourgoal haul in the opening term, holding the Magpies to 2.4.

Thesecond quarter wasacloser affair with Strath kicking three moreand Castlemaine replying withtwo goalstotrail by 10 points at half-time.

In the third, both sides kicked two goals apieceand the Magpies remained in touchand in with afighting chance.

They grabbed it withbothhands in the final term kicking 3.6 to Storm's 2.1 but just couldn't getoverthe line before time ranout

Best on forthe Magpies wasPatrick Balta. Other topcontributorswereRhys Jenkins, Harrison Sheahan, KalanHuntly, Campbell McLennan and Callum McConachy.

TheReserves also lost aclose contest to the Stormbyjust 17 points. Best on wasArchie Rixon,

TheUnder 18s also endured ahard foughteightpointlosstoStrath. Best on wasBen Jardine.

On the netball court, the Magpie AReserveside lost afierce contest which went rightdowntothe wire 50-60. Best on was Charli Henderson.

BGrade lost 76-29 despite avaliant effort. Best on forthe Magpies were A Jumpertzand JWilliamson.

BReservelost 72-22. Theside never gave up withsomefantastic passages of play. Best on wasPaigeMcMahon.

The17&Under side lost 55-40 in a close contest. Best on in agreat team displaywas EllieClifford.

Women's Football

TheMagpie Women's Football side made the journeytoWade Street to take on Golden SquareonSundayafternoon.

TheBulldogs took thematch right up

to thehighly fancied topofthe table Magpie outfit and led by three points at the first change.

TheMagpies bounced back in the second and kicked sevenpoints to snatch athree pointleadathalftime.

Castlemaine kept the momentum rollinginthe thirdwithanother three goals.

TheBulldogs made alatecomeback in the final stanza but thevisitorsshowed their class holding on to win the matchby 20 points.

TheMagpies retain topspoton percentagewithGolden Squaresitting in second place.

Jemma Finning wasbest on ground for Castlemaine. Eillish Cumming, Lily Den Houting, Chelsea Cole,Grace Brady and Ella Cochrane.

TheCastlemaine sides will enjoya spell this weekend as part of the competition wide King'sBirthdayweekend bye before theyhost Sandhurst at the Camp ReserveonJune 14. TheMagpie Women's Football side campaign will continue when theyhost Eaglehawk under lights at the Camp Reservethis FridaynightJune 6at 7pm.

High-class thriller

Bill West

UnbeatenWoodend-Hesket wasforced to the brink by aresoluteMacedon in ahighstandardnetball encounteratTonyClarke ReserveonSaturday.

Scores were extremely close throughout —level at quarter and half-time, 38-38 the Hawks' wayatthe last change, and 53-48 at the final siren.

Andthe twoA-grade playing coaches, Ty Coppinger forthe Hawks and Katie Clarke (Macedon)werebothhappy afterthe ebb and flowmatch.Theyhavefinals time on their minds, with afinal six this season.

"Theytook it to us,theychallenged us, and we came outontop," Coppinger told her players

Shesaiditwas just thereally tough test theHawks needed at this stageofthe season.

TheHawks have wonthe past twogrand finals, and athirdwould be an absolutely remarkable performance.

Macedon has along history of good outcomes in the Riddell League,and Clarke continues to be afine playerand leader

"I'm extremely proud of all our players today, especially as topplayerCaitlyn Alifraco wasunavailable.

"Thereisstill improvementoverall and our forwardzone comprisesyounger players "Woodend-Hesket is atop side and we arelooking forwardtoplaying finals,"Clarke added.

Onlookerswatched some quality,fastmoving netball from both sides.

TheHawks' scoring duo of vastly experiencedshooter Rebecca Hicks 27 goalsand youngster Charlee Duff-Tytler with 21 had ahigh-scoring percentage, whereas Cats' counterparts Henrietta Donoghue and Chloe Eyre hadsome shots go astray in apressurepacked environment.

SarahDuff, Coppinger and Duff-Tytler were among the Hawks' best, and the Cats' listed MollyMcGrath, Janelle Birchand Clarkeastheir toptrio.

GIANTS TOPPLE RIDDELL

Gisborne Giants caused an upsetbytoppling strongly fancied Riddell with a56-52 scoreline.

TheBomberswereontheir owncourt,

and the visitorswerecalm and composed when it mattered.

Emma Vitalone, and Olivia Craske excelled forthe Giants, and Maria Seumanutafathrew 32 goals, while Riddell'sMaddy Browncontinued her topseason and Ellen Close wasalsoprominent.

In their first season, theGiants arenow fifth on theladder with fivewins from eight matches.

Riddell slipped to thirdasLancefield regained second spotwith a54-44 margin overwooden spoon favouriteDiggers Rest. Shanae Brundell continued to shinewith 38 goalsfor the Tigers

KYNETON'S FIRST WIN

Therewas jubilation in Kynetonranks as their A-grade side brokethrough forits first victory. It wasaconvincing 57-29 margin overMelton South.

Evergreen Michelle Fletcher led the way with46 goals, and the Kynetonside hope to scoresomemoresuccesses in the second half of the season.

Lancefield goalsmachine Tarnee Hammond turned in an incredible individual performancewith75 goalsinher side's 95-21 thrashing of DiggersRest in B-grade. A-grade ladder: Woodend-Hesket 32 points, Lancefield 28, Riddell 24, Macedon 20, Gisborne Giants 20, Melton Centrals 16, Romsey16, Wallan 14, Melton South 10, Kyneton8,Diggers Rest 8.

Strong finish by Gisborne

Gisborne senior footballersmay have been playing aside withjustone win to its credit on Saturday, but areal contest ensued at Gardiner Reserve.

Thematch came aliveinthe thirdterm when Golden Squareproduced some of its best football this season to scoreseven goalsstraight

This gave the visitorsanunexpected lead of 13 points going into the last quarter,and it looked likeanupset wasonthe cards.

With plenty at stake, the Gisborne side lifted and dominatedplayinthe last term, scoring 5.5 to asolitary point. Thefinal scorewas 12.17 (89) to 10.8 (68).

Afterseven rounds, Gisborne have six wins and somevery interesting games lie ahead. Golden Squareisnot thepowerhouse of some yearsago,but can be competitivedespite being second last on the ladder

Gisborne's best were listed as James Gray, Matt Merrett, Brad Bernacki, PatMcKenna, ZacVescoviand JedDenahy.

McKenna continued his good form with four goalsinaseason wherethereisnorunaway leader in the league's goalkicking.

This weekend all BendigoLeague teamshaveabreak due to theKing'sBirthdayweekend. Round 8onSaturdayJune 14 sees Gisborne at home to bottom side Kangaroo Flat FOUR OUTOFFIVE

Gisborne netballerswon four of their fivematches on Saturday.

TheA-gradershad acomprehensive58-33 victory over Golden Square.

Gisborne wonthe A-Reservematch 49-29, the B-grade contest70-23, and B-Reserve 50-27. Golden Square'sonlysuccess cameinthe 17&Under match,with a39-26 outcome.

Transgender ban follows club’s threat

Morgan Reinwald

TheRiddell District Football NetballLeague is in the spotlightfor agender disputeonceagain afterits board removedtwo transgender athletesfromits senior netball competition.

League CEOJordan Doyle sentanemailtoall clubs after Melton South Football NetballClub threatened to forfeit matches if twoplayers competed. Theemail cited Section 42 of the SexDiscrimination Act, and statedthe exclusion of both players wasonthe basis they "exhibit superior strength, stamina and physique over their competitors" "The RDFNL will continue to work with the relevant stakeholdersonthis very sensitiveissue and offerany support thatwecan. TheRDFNL Boardreserves the right to reconsider these options at afuturedateshould circumstances change."

Manawa Aranui, one of the banned athletes, said MSFNC wasentitled to an opinion, buthypocritical because the club had approached her to join them in September 2024.

AMSFNC head coachallegedly messaged Aranui last year and wrote, "Hey Manawa,I just wanted to ask, depending on the rules in RDFNL, would youbeopen to playing for us Agrade next season?"

Sheclaimed theclub has sincespread falsenarratives behind the guise of safeguarding women's spaces.

"The same clubnow publicly speaking out against me, bashing me and attacking thetrans/non-binary community in the media, is thevery club whose head coachapproached me to join,"she said.

"Apparently now, Irun full-speed into playersand knock them over? We have twoumpiresonthe court to keep the game safe.IfI haddonewhatyou claim, wouldn't Ihave been warned, or penalised, or reprimanded? Forthe record,I

haven'tbeen cautioned once, notinthis league, or anyother I'veplayedin.

"Would this still be aconversation if Iaccepted the offer [last year]?"

Netball Victoria's gender diversity policy states, "players identifying as female canparticipate in the female category," regardless of their gender assigned at birth. Thepolicy must be adhered to by all affiliatedleagues and Netball Victoria has appointedan"external investigator"toreviewthe RDFNL's exception under Section 42 of the SexDiscrimination Act. TheRDFNLreceived criticism earlier this year after it rejected abid by the KynetonWomen's Football Clubto join their league.The same boardcited concerns their team name wastoo similar to the KynetonTigers–fromwhom theyrecentlysplit from overgender equity issues –despite other towns having twoclubs representedinthe league with similar names.

Callum McConachywas among thebest on ground forthe Magpies. Photo:PeterBanko

Versatile Charlee Duff-Tytler wasaconstant threattoMacedon’s defence.

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