Midland Express Tuesday 4 April 2023

The Public Intoxication Reform Trial has begun in Castlemaine.

In preparation for the decriminalisation of public drunkenness in November 2023, the new health model is being trialled in Mount Alexander Shire and three other locations across Victoria. This marks ashift towards a health-based approach to managing public intoxication.

The new model has been informed by recommendations and advice detailed in 2020 report to the Victorian Attorney-General Seeing the Clear Light of Day

The report serves as alasting tribute to the tragic death of Tanya Day –aproud Yorta Yorta woman and much-loved mother and grandmother who died after afall in acell at the Castlemaine Police Station in 2017.

The health model seeks to divert people away from apolice response and increase access to health and social services as the primary response to public intoxication. This includes outreach services, training for first responders and helping people to be transported to asafe place where they can receive support if they need it.

As part of the Mount Alexander trial, there are two service streams. Astandalone Aboriginal-led response delivered by specialist Aboriginal services Bendigo and District Aboriginal Co-operative and the Aboriginal Community Justice Panels. This runs alongside ageneral service to the Mount Alexander community, delivered by Dhelkaya Health from their Castlemaine campus.

Dhelkaya Health CEO Sue Race said they were proud to be part of this important trial and to be ready to offer potentially lifesaving support to anyone who needed it.

"This trial is about minimising harm and treating intoxication as ahealth issue,” Ms Race said.

Continued page 6.

Gold forlocal florist

LisaDennis

FloristOlivia Coutts from Florals by PemberleyofMalmsburyhas taken outa goldmedal with her GreatHall of Flowers entry 'Autumn in the Macedon Ranges' at theMelbourneInternational Flower and Garden Show.

Olivia told the Express she discovered theaward win on the opening morningofthe show.

"Wehad to have ourdisplays completed by 5pmlastTuesday andthe judgescameinlater that evening," she said.

"I wassent an email about the wininthe Visual Display Section, butI wasbusy with the children andhadn't seen it.

"The firstI learnedofour success was when Iarrived at the displayWednesday morning withmyparents and my motherin-law. "It wasalovely surprise Iwas thrilled!

"The display involvedmany weeks of preparation so it's great to seeitreceive thiskind of recognition."

Olivia said shehad been overwhelmed by thereaction to the installation.

"I have hadsomewonderful feedback from friendsand family,visitorsand other industry professionals.It'sbeenreally amazing."

Theflorist's entry also blew up social mediafor the event withsome wonderfulcomments.

"Cannot love thismore! Congratulationsitisanabsolutelystunning install, whimsical, dreamy, melodic, prettiness. Love,love, love it very deserving of the gold," commented Retro Revival.

"This was such abeautiful sight! Definitely deserving of the gold medal! The attention to detail, the emotion and song created was breathtaking. It literally brought ateartomy eye, thank you," commented another visitor.

The local florist had even more to celebrateSundayeve-

ningwhen she discovered she hadalso picked up the 'People's Choice Award' forthe mainfloral display

"I'm just blown away by the response. It'slovely.Ihad alot of wonderful feedback from other professionals toowho were impressedwiththe qualityof theflowers from ourlocalfarms. The display primarilyfeatured dahlias, which are in seasonand love thecool wet climate andfertilesoilinthe Macedon Ranges," Oliviasaid.

"A big shout out to thesix localfarms and growers Isourced

Shared trails designs

Macedon Ranges Shire councillors have approved preliminary designs for the Macedon Ranges Shared Trails(Woodend to Riddells Creek) with further investigation needed to determineaccessinand around Riddells Creek

The projectisa 24km shared-use trail for mostly off-road cycling,walking and jogging along the rail corridor andthrough townships between Woodend andRiddells Creek.

MRSC's director of assetsand operations, Shane Walden, said last week the council had not metits previous-thought 2022 start date andworks were now expected to begin in lateMarch to early April with completion by mid-2024.

"In Riddells Creek, two potential routes were identified with further investigation required,"hesaid.

"Therehavebeenchallenges in determining theroute intoRiddells Creek duetovarious cultural heritage, flora and fauna,heritage, infrastructure andtraffic considerations

"As officers arestill refining methodology for getting the path into Riddells Creekthis sectionwillbedeliverednow nearer to the end of theproject. Designers are still investigating aviableroute."

In May 2022, thecouncil appointed Newearth Constructionstoundertake design and construction of the project, which will take place in stages.

The project is forecast to cost $11.24 milliontocomplete.Thiswas increased in July 2021 from the previous forecast of $9.75 milliontotakeintoaccount the increased cost of construction material and delays caused by COVID.

MRSC received agrant of $8.75 million from the VictorianGovernment throughthe Crisis Committee of Cabinet –Infrastructure Stimulus Fund to deliver theproject, with the council providing the remaining funds.

The Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions grant fundingagreement required council's design approval by April.

theflowers from including Fleurs de Lyonville, BelleAmeFlower Farm,MalmsburyFlowers, Fat Magpie Farm, Lombardy Farm in Kynetonand Bunch Farmat Lauriston

"I can't wait to come back and do it all againnextyear!"

It was ahugelysuccessful weekend forthe MacedonRanges withlandscaper Clair Derwort of Lauristonalsowinning bronze in thestudent-led 'Achievable Gardens' sectionrepresenting BendigoTAFEwhere sheiscurrently undertaking aDiploma of Horticulture.

T-Bone $24.99kg

Rib Eye (and Roast) $33.99kg

Lamb Leg Bone in (full) $9.99kg

Lamb Leg Bone in (half) $10.99kg

Lamb Leg Chops $10.99kg

Pork Leg Boneless &Rolled $9.99kg

CARTON SPECIAL BUYS 10% OFF

Olivia Coutts from Florals by Pemberley of Malmsbury is pictured with her gold medal Great Hall of Flowers entry ‘Autumn in the Macedon Ranges’

Wilson claims aimms

Cliffy’s record recoord

Amy Hume

Kyneton ultramarathon runner Greg Wilson has smashed racing legend Cliff Young's long-held 48-hour Australian M70 Age Record.

Wilson claimed the 30-year-long held title with an impressive 287.404km finish at Sri Chinmoy in Canberra, adding 22.604kms to the record.

He also claimed the 200km record of 28 hours 55 minutes and 32 seconds, shaving about six hours and 42 seconds off the record that has stood since 2006.

Wilson said his 200km time was "necessary to have any hope of tackling Cliffy's record" and served as astrong motivator.

It also saw him place second in Australian 48-Hour Championship.

"I had to focus on the records because anything can go wrong –I never went there expecting aplace in the Australian Championships," he said.

"I passed Cliffy's 1993 total of 264.8kms with abit over two hours to spare –and then set about making it difficult for those future challengers."

On the same day, Wilson shared the track with the United States' Camille Herron as she broke the women’s world record for most distance covered in 48 hours at Sri Chinmoy in Australia. Herron completed astaggering 435.336km.

Turning 70 last June, Wilson's longest event before last month was 24 hours.

He set an impressive six Australian M70 records entering a new age division last year: 6Hour 61.9km (previously 58.531) 50 Mile 8hr 32m 39s (previously 8hr 38m 23s) 100km 11hr 15m (previously 11hr 42m 29s) 12 Hour 106km (previously 102km) 100 Mile 22hr 26m 27s (previously 22hr 39m 55s) 24 Hour 170.5km (previously 166.33km).

The Vietnam veteran had sponsorship for his latest Canberra trip from the Kyneton RSL.

Wilson said there were two more of Cliffy's records that he could tackle but first was recovery from the March event.

Council news

Council services over Easter

TheCastlemaine Civic Centrewill be closed overthe Easter long weekend (Friday 7April to Monday10April)

Therewill be no kerbside wasteorrecycling collection on GoodFriday(Friday7April).Bins willbecollected the following day(Saturday8 April) andasusual on Easter Monday(Monday10April).

Employment opportunities

Heavy Combination Truck Driver –fulltime

Road Worker –Sealed Roads –full time

Asset Protection Officer –full time

Applications close at 9.00am on Monday 10 April

Community FloodResilience Recovery Coordinator –full time

Community FloodResilience Recovery Officer –parttime

ActiveCommunities Officer (Recreation Reserves) –full time

Applications close at 9.00am on Monday 17 April

Find out moreatmountalexander.vic.gov.au/Current_vacancies

Upcoming Council meeting

ThenextCouncil meeting is at 6.30pmonTuesday18April. Watchthe livestream at youtube.com/c/MountAlexanderShireCouncil.

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

Feedbackonfootpaths

Macedon Ranges' shire-wide footpath plan is now open to community feedback.

The revised plan aims to clarify footpath priorities and provide transparency around the design and location process when the council is planning to construct new footpaths.

“Since this plan was adopted, council has spent close to $4 million on the delivery of footpaths as part of our capital works," said deputy mayor, Jennifer Anderson.

“This revised plan provides aclearer strategy to guide us on which of the already identified upgrades to prioritise, where budget allows, and how we propose to work with the community early on design options available.”

For more information and to have your say, visit: mrsc.vic.gov.au

Kyneton’s Greg Wilson has claimed a longstanding Australian record previously held Cliff Young He is pictured with support crew Justin Hiatt

Roadworksprove costly

Angela Crawford

AKyneton business owner has slammed roadworks under way on Jennings Street, which have already cost him thousands of dollars.

The works require the street to be closed from Mollison Street for six to eight weeks as Easter approaches and supermarket renovations impact the Woolworths carpark.

John Silva, owner of Liquor Legends fronting the carpark, said he was angry at the length of time the works were going to take.

"The shop was $10,000 down in trade this past week alone," he said.

"Next week is Easter, then the school holidays, and it's the second busiest time in the trade and the road is shut.

"It's very hard to get to this side of the carpark, you have to drive through the Woolworths carpark (from Baynton Street) and circle back at the end."

Glen Harris, owner of neighbouring Sizzlin' Sensations butcher shop, agreed the timing was "less than ideal" but said he understood the works needed to be done.

Macedon Ranges Shire Council's director of assets and operations, Shane Walden, said the project received council funding for delivery this financial year and the road condition was in dire need of attention.

"It is expected to worsen over winter if not addressed," Mr Walden said.

"Due to high demand within the construction industry, mid-March was our earliest possible start date and while we cannot control the timing of other third-party works, adetailed traffic management plan is in place to maintain safe, detoured vehicle access to all local businesses and residents.

"We appreciate there is rarely agood

commercial area.

"We endeavoured to communicate these works well in advance and through multiple channels including in local papers, online and in person via letter-drops di-

Twoincidents on High Street

Woodend Fire Brigade was also kept busy on Sunday March 26 attending to two incidents on High Street, Woodend.

The first was atruck fire about 11.07am on the hill towards Black Forest Drive, which caused substantial damage to the cabin and engine of the truck. The truck was stationary and parked at the time and the fire was believed to be caused by an electrical fault.

About 3.50pm that afternoon the brigade attended atwo-car collision on the railway overpass bridge.

One vehicle had collided with the back of another vehicle and caused an oil spill. No one was injured and police managed traffic around the cleanup.

located for works included contingency for poor weather but also recognised the added complexity of shallow underground utilities, which the contractor was carefully excavating around for their safety and to

ever possible," he said.

"We thank everyone for their patience as we complete these essential works and we encourage people to support local businesses that remain open during this time."

Our Lady of the Rosary Parish School is focused on enabling our children to understand the world around them and the talents within them so thatthey can become fulfilled individuals and active, compassionate citizens.

ThursdayMarch 30 –12pm- 1pm

TuesdayApril 4 –12pm- 1pm

John Silva, owner of Liquor Legends in Kyneton, says council roadworks on Jennings Street have already cost him thousands of dollars

Reform trial begins

From page 1.

As part of the trial, outreach teams will provide an ‘on the ground’ response to assess the health and wellbeing of people who are intoxicated in public and provide transport to asafe place.

Dhelkaya's ‘Place of Safety’ services provide asupervised place for intoxicated people to stay while they sober up if their home or another private residence is not safe or suitable.

After someone has engaged with apublic intoxication service, they are offered followup or ongoing support to address additional health and welfare needs.

Dhelkaya has employed ateam of two specialist staff to support and care for anyone referred to the Place of Safety to support their immediate recovery and will also have ateamofBDAC alcohol and other drugs specialist support workers co-located within Dhelkaya Community Health services at Spencely House on Dhelkaya Health’s Castlemaine campus.

Key to the trial’s success will be local partnerships between Dhelkaya, BDAC, ACJP, Victoria Police and Ambulance Victoria. Referrals to the program come from

Victoria Police or Ambulance Victoria, while BDAC and ACJP will offer support and care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Senior Sergeant Darren McQueen of Castlemaine Police said if amember of the public had concerns about someone distressed or drunk in public –itcould be someone they know or astranger –they should call triple zero (000).

"This will ensure we can get that person to the right place to help them sober up safely,” Sgt McQueen said.

Dhelkaya Health is keen to stress that the Place of Safety is not an emergency accommodation option –it’s ashort-term place of safety specifically for people needing clinical oversight while they sober up from drunkenness. All referrals to the Public Intoxication Reform Trial Project must come from Victoria Police or Ambulance Victoria.

Dhelkaya's Public Intoxication Reform Trial is vital in ensuring the right services are available when public drunkenness is decriminalised in November 2023, and has already provided insights in terms of service design, workforce and likely demand to the state-wide model.

Lisa Dennis

As part of the Castlemaine Fringe Festival's 'Art Window Trail', passionate local backyard composter Mikaela Beckley has created an art installation that celebrates microbes and the Yes in My Backyard community compost initiative.

The artwork on 'The Hub' Building in Barker Street incorporates paper mache, recyclable materials and avideo presentation and celebrates the soil enthusiast's fascination with the microscopic community living in our soil.

"It's this microbial community that performs the miracle of composting!" Mikaela said.

The creative said her wish was to reflect on the two communities, human and microbial, that benefit from the care and attention of YIMBY, and how our collective health was inextricably linked.

"I am akeen gardener and was delighted be part of the second intake of community members to join the YIMBY initiative, which sees local volunteer composters take organics (kitchen scraps) from neighbours diverting them from landfill and turning them into valuable compost," she said.

"To date, YIMBY has successfully diverted more than 12,000kgs of organics from landfill and turned it into quality compost by linking people keen to compost with

those who aren't currently doing so, within their neighbourhood.

"As we knowthese organics are incredibly damaging when they go into landfill generating harmful greenhouse gases and this initiative reduces theamount of organics going into landfill and teaches participants how to compost effectivelyto avoid emissions and use this wonderful resource to regenerate our soil and grow healthy, nutrient-packed produce," she said.

Mikaela collects 40-50kgs of organic waste aweekfrom16neighbours and uses 'hot composting' to create an end product that enriches soil with 'good' microbes.

"My neighbours pass on their organic waste to me and when Ihave excess produce Ishare it with them. Some of our YIMBY composters also have the capacity to share excess compost with the wider community. It's awin, win," Mikaela said.

YIMBY is currently preparing for its third intake of community composters and will also be holding aseries of 'Advanced Hot Composting' workshops in April. You can check outthe website for ashortfilm on the project.

Thenext composter intake is just about at capacity but YIMBY would love to hear from community members who would like to register as afoodscraps contributor or for the drop off service at The Hub. To find out more or to register visit yimbycompost.com

Artist and YIMBY composter Mikaela Beckleyis pictured with her Fringe‘ArtWindowTrail’ installation at The Hub.

KN270591/K

Newflood levee

Apermanent levee to protect the Castlemaine Zone Substation from aone-in-250year flood is now complete.

Powercor crews have used more than 6000 tonnes of clay to build the 2.5 metre-high and 150-metre long levee around the critical site at Elizabeth Street near Campbells Creek.

Awalking path has been re-established into the levee, providing residents continuing access to public space along the creek. Over coming weeks, Powercor will revegetate the area, guided by DJAARA Traditional Owners.

Powercor’s head of major projects, Marcus Olive, said the new levee and associated flood mitigation work was designed to reduce the risk of floods even larger than what was experienced last October affecting the critical site.

“As our weather becomes more extreme and events like last October’s floods become more common, investing in measures to protect power infrastructure like Castlemaine Zone Substation is critical,” Mr Olive said.

“People rely on power and this substantial work is about reducing the risk of floods affecting supply to homes and businesses when they need it most.”

In October, Powercor turned off the Castlemaine Zone Substation for about four hours after floodwaters entered the control room and made it unsafe to keep operating.

"By de-energising the site, we were able to reduce the safety risk to emergency services, employees and the community and minimise long-term damage to the site," he said.

Since then, Powercor has been working closely with Mount Alexander Shire Council, the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action and the DJAARA Traditional Owners to progress plans to build apermanent flood levee and complete other flood mitigation work at the site.

“We appreciate the understanding from the community as we conducted this work along the creek area, as well as the support we have received from the council, DEECA, and the DJAARA Traditional Ownerss,” Mr Olive said.

The Castlemaine Zone Substation supplies 12,364 customers across Maldon, Newstead, Elphinstone, Harcourt, Campbells Creek, Drummond and surrounding areas. The infrastructure was built by the SEC in the 1960s, according to records.

Powercor crews have used more than 6000 tones of clay to build the newlevee

Intimidation, suggestive jokes, exclusion...

Gendered violence comes in manyforms. All areOHS issues.All areunacceptable.

Employers have an obligation to protect their workers.

WorkSafeGendered Violence

Reducing workplace harm.

Bin collection trucks unable to turn around in anarrow cul-de-sac at the end of a Kyneton street are causing damage to the road and adriveway, alocal resident says.

Tim Proctor lives on Hutton Street and said the trucks were reversing onto his driveway pushing the gravel into grooves that he had to keep filling in.

In abid to stop the trucks from backing onto his driveway, Mr Proctor has been putting his bins out on his driveway instead of the nature strip.

But now he’s received aletter from the council requesting that he cease doing so.

"I don't know if they have the right to tell me not to put my bins on the driveway," Mr Proctor told the Express

"It's the only stable area out the front, once you get up there (onto the nature strip) the camber down into the culvert is quite steep and whenever they'd put the bins down they'd fall in and break their lids."

Macedon Ranges Shire Council's director of assets and operations, Shane Walden, said that following acomplaint from Mr Proctor last year about the trucks turning around in his driveway, officers notified the waste contractor and it confirmed it had ceased doing this.

"Separate from this, the placement of the bins on the driveway is causing asafety issue for the collection truck," Mr Walden said.

"While the trucks do not need to physically drive onto his driveway, they may still overhang the driveway to turn around safely –the placement of the bins on the crossover hinders this.

"We appreciate this is achallenging location and in endeavouring to work with Mr Proctor to reach apractical and safe solution, we have recommended that the bins instead be placed on the nearby nature strip so as to not obstruct the crossover or the turning trucks," he said.

Be heard on new local law

Macedon Ranges Shire Council's Draft Community Local Law 2023 is open for community consultation.

Local laws are renewed every 10 years, enabling councils to consider new issues and expectations while ensuring local laws remain valid and suited to community needs.

Many existing laws remain unchanged in the proposed Draft Community Local Law, while improvements and additions to topics such as noxious weeds, fireworks and waste management are proposed.

Feedback is invited from March 28 to April 30. For more information and to have your say, visit: mrsc.vic.gov.au

Macedon Ranges music directory launched

Local bands and musicians can now be listed in Macedon Ranges Shire Council's new dedicated online directory.

More than 20 local bands or singer/ songwriters have already signed up to feature in the directory, covering arange of genres and offering something for every taste. Bands or artists can be contacted directly from the page, making the process of enquiring and booking easier for organisers.

The directory is accessible on the Macedon Ranges Community Halls website alongside information about the various community halls and facilities available for hire around the shire.

To see what local talent is available for your next event: visit macedonrangeshalls.com.au/bands

If you are alocal band or singer/songwriter living or working in the Macedon Ranges and would like to be included in the directory, email an Expression of Interest, including abio and pictures, for inclusion to: kthmarketing@mrsc.vic. gov.au

Angela Crawford

Tim Proctor lives on Hutton Street and says bin collection trucks are damaging his driveway.

Exciting neew events for WWAF

The Woodend Winter Arts Festival returns this June, bringing with it afourday program of world-class performances, thought-provoking discussions and exciting new events.

Taking place over the King’s Birthday long weekend (June 9-12), the program will feature some of Australia’s leading classical musicians, alongside some of the country’s greatest literary minds.

An exciting new addition to the program is the High Street Festa. Over one evening, Woodend’s charming main street will come to life as historic buildings are illuminated with colourful projected artworks by local artist Mary Larnach-Jones.

There will also be late night shopping and plenty of food trucks. The evening will culminate with aflash mob Big Sing, as hundreds of singers join forces to perform.

Another new addition is the Choral Marathon featuring six choirs from across Victoria and more than 200 singers for an afternoon and evening of lively and soulstirring performances.

Musical highlights include aperformance by acclaimed jazz musicians Simon Tedeschi and George Washingmachine, along with concerts from Melbourne Conservatorium of Music Wind Octet, Ensemble Gombert and Accademia Arcadia, Ensemble Liaison and The Alma Zygier Trio.

There will also be aperformance of Prokofiev's Peter and the Wolf,narrated by Max Gillies with the Scotch College Orchestra.

The Words and Ideas Program features discussions of challenging contemporary issues such as the clean energy crisis, climate catastrophe, pandemics, peace and war and more, with luminaries such as Alan Finkel, Peter Doherty, Don Watson, Jock Serong, Tom Griffiths, Christine Keneally,

Alan Gyngell, Jim Middleton, Lauren Rickards and Jamie Button.

In addition to the High Street Festa, other free events include the annual fireworks display at Woodend’s Buffalo Stadium, which will this year be synchronised to popular classical music.

The fireworks event will also feature free performances from Japanese drummers Taikokoro Inc., and the Royal Melbourne Hospital Scrub Choir.

According to WWAF artistic director and

founder, Dr Jacqueline Ogeil, this year’s event is atriumphant return, after running at areduced capacity over the past few years due to pandemic restrictions.

“We are thrilled to launch the program for the 18th Woodend Winter Arts Festival," Dr Ogeil said.

"After several challenging years, we are incredibly excited to return this event to the high-calibre standard of world-class performances and insightful discussions that our attendees have grown to love.

“We are also excited to deliver some exciting new elements to the program this year, including the High Street Festa, which promises to be afun and family friendly night out for the young and young at heart incorporating music, stunning projected artworks, food and late-night shopping."

Tickets are now on sale. To view WWAF’s full program of events and to book tickets, visit: woodendwinterartsfestival.org.au

Simon Tedeschi and George Washingmachine

Notlostbut Not lost but found

Lancefield's Lost Watering Hole is one of Macedon Ranges newest tourism drawcards. The independent brewery has produced 2000 litres of beer per week since December and has the capacity to produce 100,000 litres of beer ayear. It is also equipped to produce and package for other labels and the site has created 24 local jobs. Backed by the Regional Jobs Fund, the brewery will help meet ahigh demand for Victorian craft beer. Pictured is the Lost Watering Hole management team with local MP Mary-Anne Thomas who toured the site last week.

Police investigate fire

Police are investigating the cause of afire that spread from one property to another at Kyneton on Saturday March 25. Responders were called to Rogers Drive about 5.30pm to find smoke visible across town as the blaze spread to impact acaravan, two motor vehicles, afenceline and acypress hedge. Five trucks and support vehicles from Kyneton, Malmsbury, Carlsruhe, Springhill and Tylden worked bring it under control within 20 minutes.

Shed fire at Woodend

Woodend Fire Brigade attended ashed fire at aproperty on Mount Macedon Road, Woodend, last Tuesday, possibly caused by aleaking gas bottle. Firefighters were able to extinguish the small fire quickly. The shed sustained some smoke and water damage.

Your child’sexperiences at schoolcan shape them forlife, so making sure that schoolis afun and productive placeiscrucial. At Girton, we do thisbyproviding dedicated student wellbeing and emotional intelligenceprogrammes, limitless opportunitiesinSportsand Performing and Creative Arts, and the development of skills,valuesand principles, which allcombine to help students get the most out of lifeatschooland beyond Education at Girtonismorethanjustbooks,with different pathways forstudents dictated by individual talent,interestsand aspirations, butoutcomesare an equallyimportant measureofsuccess.For thisreason, we areveryproud that the School’s VCEresults are currently in the top15% in Victoria, an outstanding result achieved by typicalstudents fromthe region

On Friday May 5, visit Girtononanormal schoolday.Visit www.girton.vic.edu.au for moreinformation or phone ourRegistrar on (03) 54413114.

Police investigate bin on fire

Police are investigating afire at a residence in Mitchell Street, Kyneton, last Tuesday night.

Firefighters arrived on scene to find a recycling bin alight at the address.

Pottery extravaganza

Lisa Dennis

The annual 'Campbells Creek Pottery and Australiana Exhibition and Sale' extravaganza returns this Easter Saturday.

Now in its fifth year, the exhibition will feature pieces from all over Victoria and beyond, including colonial and retro pottery and as well as quirky Australiana collectables to pique the interest of the most avid collector.

The event is coordinated by Central Victorian antique dealer and pottery aficionado Brian Owens and his mate Ed Kisala from Healesville.

Brian said that with the 2023 event once again coinciding with Easter, they anticipated abig crowd.

"We will have 24 stallholders in attendance from across the state with awide range of unique, rare and collectable pieces," he said.

Among the items that Brian will be bringing along is a 1975 painting of Castlemaine's historic Market Building by Robert Blackwood.

He will also be displaying amagnificent eye-catching purple ceramic piece featuring two lizards created by Harcourt potter David Lyons.

"It is areallystriking piece. I'd hate to part with this one," the collector said.

Brian will also be displaying apottery piece created by renowned local Castlemaine potter Barry Singleton.

"Barry was ateacher at the Castlemaine Technical School and is really respected for his mastery in the field," Brian said.

Locals and visitors to the region can catch aglimpse of these itemsand many more fascinating and quirky pieces of Australiana at the exhibition and sale at the Community Centre in Elizabeth Street, Campbells Creek, on Saturday April 8from 10am to 3pm.

"We also encourage people to bring along a'mystery item' if they wish and 'ask an expert'for identification. We might just unearth some rare finds!"

Entry is by gold coin donation and funds raised will go towards the Campbells Creek Football Netball Club.

"We aredelighted to support the local club. The Creek Magpies members will also be doing the catering with food and refreshments available for purchase throughout the day," Briansaid.

peaceofmind

Who knows your story?

What did you enjoy about school?

Who was your favourite teacher and why?

What was your very first job and what did you learn from that experience?

What characteristics do you have that have come from your parents?

Who have been the most influential people in your life?

What is your favourite song/ book/ movie and why?

What is your favourite way to spend aday?

Sometimes the answer to these questions are only known by you, yet they are often at the core of who you are. To leave some of your life recorded for your loved ones is such aunique gift and one that can be shared through the generations.

If COVID and lockdowns have taught us anything it is the importance of relationships and how much we appreciate the small things that we couldn’t do with those we love. So let’s appreciate our time together and share some of our own unique stories, because wouldn’t we all love the opportunity to ask these questions of those whom we have loved and lost?

While most of us may not consider ourselves writers, we all have astory to tell and jotting down some favourite memories for your family is such an important thing to do –and such a privilege to share.

Don’t know where to start?

TJScott &Son offer their Your Story booklets to get you started, which includes little prompts –so all you have to do is answer the questions.

What is your earliest memory?’ What are the significant things that have happened in your life so far? What has scared you? What brings you joy? Where is your favourite place to spend aday?

For your complimentary copy of the Your Story booklet and the Your Goodbye compendium booklet please contact Kelly Scott on 5422 6455 or email kelly@ tjscottandson.com.au

(Photos: Kim Selby)

Join thefun of the fair

The 146th Maldon Easter Fair, Australia’s oldest continuous running fair, will launch on Thursday April 6withthe lighting of Tower Lights atop Mt Tarrangower.

Then prepare for The Great Aussie Scone Bake Competitionwhere bakers battle it out to win the prestigious honour of producing the most delicious scones.

On Good Friday hop over to the Beehive Chimney for acombined church service or join the excitement at Bill Woodfull Reserve as Maldon FNC take on Dunolly FNC where the kids will delight in an Easter Egg hunt, face painting and ajumping castle. Saturday the Maldon Golf Club will host its annual Hole-in-One Competition (continuing Sunday) followed by Nearest the Esky later in the evening.

Visit the Maldon Quilt Show at the Community Centre (continuing Sunday and Monday) and head to Vincent Road to view the all-important Billycart race.

The much-loved Torchlight Parade and Dancing in the Street are back on Main Street -somake sure to put your dancing shoes on!

If you’re feeling like aquieter day on Sunday, make your way down to the Easter Market and have wonder or make your way to the Vintage Engine Rally at the Maldon Vintage Machinery Museum (open all weekend) followed by ascreening of ‘Grease’ on Main Street in the evening.

Finish the weekend off with the fabulous Easter Fair grand procession on Monday April 10 from 10.30am -anevent not to be missed.

New auditory experience

The Planting will be presented in the Goods Shed during the Castlemaine State Festival on April 6-8th. An immersive audio work in the form of asound-feature, The Planting is directed by Castlemaine based artist and filmmaker Alex Kelly.

The piece is set in 2029 and explores the future impacts of climate change, social movements and caring for country across the continent of so-called Australia. The work takes audiences on ajourney through visions of other futures in aseries of interviews interwoven with soundscapes

across time. It features interviews with Yuin man Bruce Pascoe, Yorta Yorta woman Kathryn Coff, Barkindji woman Zena Cumpston, Canadian journalist Naomi Klein and traditional fire practitioners Jason Smith and Danny Gardner, with field recordings from Landcare plantings on Djaara Country, of bird life on Wadawurrung, the Gulidjan and the Gadubanud Country and features traditional burning workshops in lutruwita (Tasmania). For details, visit: castlemainefestival.com.au/events/theplanting/

Kyneton market

Stock up on fresh local produce and browse creative hand-made goods at the Kyneton Farmers Market.

Stalls include fresh seasonal fruit and vegetables, local lamb and pork, free range eggs, fish, sourdough bread, handmade cakes, honey, jams, olives, local wines, backyard chooks, rare plants, ceramics, jewellery and hand knitted/sewn toys and gifts.People of all ages will also love ‘The Gardeners’ –these other-worldly creatures have been designed by local artists and puppeteers and will be wandering the markets spreading gifts of joy and positivity.

Kyneton is amarket for dog lovers too –well-behaved dogs on leads are always welcome.

Kyneton’s Farmers Market is held at St Paul’s Park in Piper Street on Saturday April 8from 8.30am to 1pm.

Dancing in the Street is backon Main Street so make sure to pop on down and dance the night away!

Autumn fest hasitall has as i it it t a al all ll Market stop!

Unearth autumn in the region through Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival’s month-long program of vibrant farmers markets, curated trails and itineraries, open gardens, foodie experiences, artisan workshops and events held across nine villages.

The Pie and Tart Trail celebrates many of the region’s eateries known for deliciouspastries from classic country bakeries to cellar doors.

The Tipple Trail shows off the Ranges’ cool climate wine, craft beer and ciders through aseries of hop-onhop-off train and self-drive tours.

The Edgy Veg Trail is amust-do for those seeking something exciting and different in their vegetarian dishes.

For afull list of individual events, trails and itineraries, visit: visitmacedonranges.com/autumnfestival

Honkytonk vibes

It’s time for ahoedown! The Dead Clampets are bringing their unmissable swampy low-down honky tonk country vibes to The Taproom at Shedshaker Brewing at The Mill Castlemaine tonight, April 4, from 5.30pm.

“Hey, what can you say, averitable pot pourri of talent, wisdom, youth, experience and rebellion and alittle whiff of senility,” band member Deano says.

Acomposite of high energy and high entertainment makes The Dead Clampets amust see.

Musically they go where they need to, with tongues planted firmly in their cheeks they deliver awry brand of western/hickabilly/swamp genre. Nothing is sacred, “hey Elvis start rolling now”.

Hailing from the centre of Victoria, their original songs reflect passion, tradition and their lives. Don’t be fooled by imitations or fake news, The Dead Clampets are alive and well, check ‘em out!

Don’t miss what will be awhip-cracking good time. Grab your tix now: events.humanitix.com/ tuesday-tunes-3

Hop to the art market

Hop to Woodend Art Group’s Easter Art Market at Woodend Railway Station on Saturday, April 8, to Monday, April 10

The market will run daily from 10am to 4pm with about 70 group members selling their artwork

Visitors can browse and purchase paintings (framed and unframed), ceramics, jewellery, cards, photographs, sculptures and more

WAG’s art market is a tradition that has continued for about 12 years and never fails to impress visitors from near and far

quartet will playgood old songs fora good old time,fromHank to swampyairs.

Romsey Arts and Craft Market is your perfect East Sunday stop on April 9to browse local wares enjoy afamily day out.

There will be plenty of goods showcased including woodwork, wood art, bric-a-brac, jewellery, clothing, candles and much more. There will also be avariety of food stalls and aLancefield Romsey Lions Club Easter Raffle. Tickets can be purchased on the day for asame-day draw. All enquiries, contact Angela on: heywoodangela70@gmail.com

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The Dead Clampets

EXCELLENT HEALTHCARE –CLOSE TO HOME

Get voting on your favourite veggiedish!

Thefirst day of April marked the start of the Edgy Veg Awards.

The awards run from April 1–30 and there are awhopping 42 dishes entered across 26 cafes, pubs and restaurants in the Macedon Ranges.

You can choose to eat a casual meal at acafé or pub, or splash out at afancy restaurant like Baringo in Gisborne, Fook Shing in Kyneton, or Kyneton Ridge Estate winery.

Kyneton Medical Centre offers patientcentred carefor your family

Kyneton Medical Centre, experienced medical care forthe whole family

We areopen MondaytoFriday8am-6pm and Saturday mornings9am-12pm

Appointmentscan be made anytime via our website kynetonmedical.com.au

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

estimating@macedonrangesglass.com.au

The event is an initiative of Veg Action to encourage people to eat more veg. We all know eating more veg is important –for our health, and the planet’s. Reducing your meat and dairy intake helps cut methane gas and nitrous oxide emissions.

“The Edgy Veg Awards give you the perfect opportunity to try new dishes made by the best chefs in the Macedon Ranges, and to add alittle more veg to your day,” said Claire Rowlands, group leader of Veg Action.

Voting in the competition is easy, each participating venue will display the competition QR code that you can scan to rate your dish online. You can find out more about the EdgyVeg Awards from the competition website: veg. mrsg.org.au/edgy-veg-awards. The awards are funded by the Macedon Ranges Shire Council, as part of the Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group’s Sustainable Living Festival series.

Salwa, owner and chef at Gisborne’sThe Corner Boutique Coffee Bar,withher dish Magmour

Photo: Bridget Scott

Dr Christpher Priest Dr Annamarie Perlesz Dr JennyDelle-Chiaie Dr TimothyStobie

Dr Russell KohDrAsh Arul Dr Dilly Rajapaksa Dr Milo Murphy

MTORING

New driver distractionrules

Newroad rules have been introduced regulating the use of arange of portable, wearable and inbuilt devices while driving a vehicle or riding amotorbike.

The rules expand and clarify rules already in place for mobile phones, and took effect on March 31. Changes reflect an increase of in-vehicle technologies and other technologies capable of distracting adriver.

The rules are expanded from mobile phones and visual display units to cover:

Portable devices, wearable devices, inbuilt devices, mounted devices, and motor bike helmet devices.

Drivers with full licences

Drivers who hold afulllicence in general cannot touch an unmounted portable device, such as aphone, tablet, laptop or any other device while driving.

turned off), allow aportable device to be in your lap or on any part of your body or clothes (unless it is in apocket, or in a pouch attached to your belt or other part of your body), look at the display of adevice being operated by another person in the vehicle, pass aportable device to apassenger, or, if apassenger, pass aportable device to adriver.

You can: connect to your vehicle’s Bluetooth and place the device out of sight and reach before you start driving, and use amobile phone or other device to pay at a drive-through.

For mobile phones and tablets, the mounting must be commercially designed and manufactured for that purpose, and the device must be secured in the mounting.

Last year’swinning entrymade an impact with adisastercocktail theme.Image:TAC

Prizeupfor youthfilm

Budding filmmakers and writers have the chance to see their work developed and play apart in road safety messaging as part of the 2023 Split Second Competition.

TAC's short film competition gives young creatives an opportunity to produce impactful road safety campaigns addressing issues relevant to their age group.

This year, the competition is calling on Victorians aged between 18 and 25 to develop ascript addressing either the risks associated with drowsy driving or the importance of vehicle safety.

On top of a$5000 cash prize, the winner will receive a$70,000 production budget to have their script produced by leading production studio Sweet Shop, before appearing in cinemas across the state.

For the first time, Split Second will also award arunner-up with a$30,000 budget to have their idea produced and promoted across social media.

The competition comes as Victoria experiences ahorror start to the year on the state’s roads, with 77 fatalities –compared to 57 at the same time last year -leaving many families, friends and colleagues mourning the unnecessary loss of aloved one.

The number of young drivers and passengers dying on the state’s roads has increased, with 16 people aged between 18 and 25 killed, up from 11 at this time in 2022.

Vehicle safety and drowsy driving are both critical issues when it comes to improving the safety of young people on Victorian roads.

Over the last five years, more than 70 over cent of driver and passenger fatalities aged between 18 and 25 have been in vehicles more than ten years old, and 54 per cent of drivers in this age group admit to driving while very tired.

The Split Second Competition is one of asuite of state government initiatives aimed at promoting safer travel behaviours from ayoung age, and aims to empower young people to become part of the solution to road safety.

Applications are now open until May 4, with the winning film to premier at ACMI in October.

For more information on how to apply, visit: tac.vic.gov.au/road-safety/split-second

Drivers must not: enter text, numbers or symbols, scroll, play videos or games or take video calls, display text messages, social media, emails, or photos, or rest a device on any part of the body, or pass a device to apassenger.

For portable devices, drivers must not: touch aportable device (even if it is

As ageneral rule, drivers can use their mounted or inbuilt systems for functions such as music and navigation, provided they are not entering text, scrolling or viewing images or video. However, drivers can use voice controls for music and navigation.

Not all the new rules are listed here. For afulllist of the new rules visit: vicroads.vic. gov.au

Offffering big orcheesstral

New energy burst into Mostyn Street with asurprise Resonance String Orchestra performance outside the Castlemaine Market Building marking the Castlemaine State Festival opening weekend.

Agroup of 45 musicians with violins, violas, cellos and even double bass appeared from inside buildings, and around corners, launching into amovingperformance of Mari's Wedding.

Den Toppede Hone followed –aDanish String Quartet arrangement by Resonance co-artistic director Emma Wade. Co-artistic director Heather Cummins told the Express flash mobs were agreat way to have fun while performing in new settings and introducing the community to the orchestra's work.

The not-for-profit orchestra is acommunity programthat offers big orchestral experiences to people of all ages and experience levels, helping to empower regional communities to make great music.

"We have everyone from primary school students to adolescents to adults in the orchestra," Heather said.

"The most important criteria for joining is aloveofmusic, an intention to work to repertoire up to ahigh-performance standard, and adesire to join aspecial musical community.

"Over the years we have had students stay with us throughout their schooling, and several have gone on to study music at atertiary level."

"Of the adult members, some are bringing music into their lives as beginners and some arereturning to an instrument they played in high school. We also have music teachers in our membership.

"We can cater tosuchawidemembership because we offer atuition program, where members are given support to learn their parts, as well as facilitating access to arange of top professional visiting artists, including baroque spe-

IGA mega raffle

The staff members at Maxi IGA Castlemaine have pulled out all the stops to create their fifth mega Easter Raffle to raise funds for the Royal Children's Hospital Good Friday Appeal.

The Maxi IGA team has done afantastic job collecting donations and there are an incredible 102 prizes to be won.

First prize in the raffle is ahuge hamper worth more than $300.

The many other prizes include Easter Eggs, chocolate goodies and other delicious items donated by Maxi IGA suppliers.

Kids (and adults) are also invited to take part in an Easter Colouring competition with four prizes to be won in each of the age groups: Five and under, junior (6-12) or senior (13- 102).

Min Daw and her team at Maxi IGA have put in countless hours over the past five years, getting donations from suppliers and putting the hampers together.

"It's just been getting bigger and bigger each year," Min said.

"We raised over $14,000 last year and it all goes towards the Good Friday Appeal.

"It's such aworthycause. Everyone has either used the Royal Children's Hospital or knows someone who has, we're lucky to have such an amazing facility."

Raffle tickets can be purchased at any of the registers for $2 or 3for $5. Simply call in and collect apicture for the kids to complete to be in the running to win.

The raffle runs until Thursday April 6at2pm so be quick to snap up your ticket. Winners will be notified from Thursday afternoon.

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Offeringbig orchestralexperiences

cialist

Resonance

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and

Lizzy Welsh

an ongoing relationship with artistic patron Zoe Knighton, and apartnership with the Flinders Quartet."

People passing by theMarket Building on Mostyn Street on the opening weekend of the festival were delighted to experience an orchestral flash mob.

Laura and James from

FOOTY & NETBALL

GISBORNEBULLDOGS

MEN’S FOOTBALL

Senior coach Brad Fox, aformer Essendon and Richmond player, returns to the role in 2023 after having first coached the club for three seasons from 19941996. Fox has played in three premierships for the Bulldogs and is aGisborne Hall of Fame inductee.

Fox will be supported by 2022 premiership coach Rob Waters, last year’s defensive coach Shaun Cassidy, and former club senior coach Brad Spear.

The Reserves will be coached by Anthony Belcher who has played more than 300 games for Gisborne, while the Under 18s will be coached by former North Melbourne Swans player Rob Kerr.

Five or six Under 18s are expected to make their debuts for the seniors during the With an expected average age of about 22, the Bulldogs will be ayoung, hungry team, plenty of players looking to impress as regular senior players.

Plenty of height has been added to the forward line with brothers Zac and Jed Denahy transferring across from Castlemaine and local Harry Luxmoore who won the U18 BFNL goalkicking in 2022 expected to debut during the coming season.

The Bulldogs have also added considerable speed through Tom Sparks (Noosa), Bourke (Trentham) and 2022 debutant Connor Bills expected to play asignificant role.

Gisborne’s defence, led by newly announced captain Jack Reaper, was renowned tightness and cohesiveness last year and will remain almost unchanged in the new with Liam Spear, Zac Vescovi, Matt Cassidy and Jake Normington planning on being stingy to the opposition.

The midfield will be led by ruckman Braidon Blake, strong vote-getter in the 2022 Michelsen Medal Flynn Lakey, and the hard-running Sam Graham with joint-Michelsen Medal runner-up Brad Bernacki balancing Essendon VFL duties with his commitment to Gisborne. With three players on the Calder Cannons’ list, the club has some emerging talent helping its depth.

WOMEN’S FOOTBALL

Coach Jason Peak will be supported by Don Cairney who has extensive experience coaching Gisborne Youth Girls/ Rookies football teams including to premierships, and Shannon McFerran (women’s player/playing coach) who is ahighly decorated VFLW player/AFL player prior to the creation of AFLW. Shannon was adevelopment coach at Collingwood in the AFLW, ahead coach at Carlton VFLW team and assistant coach in Carlton’s AFLW team.

Gisborne has several players who were named in the EDFL Women’s Division One 2022 Team of the Year including Brianna Woodburn, Charlotte Noonan, Ruby Watts and Shannon McFerran. Ruby Watts has been signed with the Carlton VFLW team for the 2023 season.

Together with recruits from Sunbury and Darley, players returning from injury who missed the back end of 2022 season and afew U18s coming up, Gisborne has strong numbers this year.

NETBALL

Agrade andAreserve coach Tarryn Rymer will be supported by an experienced coaching group including Bgrade coach Bronwyn Slater (2022 premiership coach), Breserve’s Leesa Lord and Kara Murray, and U17s’ Rylee Connell.

“This year we will be focusing on continuing to strengthen and build connections among the playing group,” Rymer said.

“I’m excited to see what the likes of Tori and Emily Macdonald can do, coming up from U17s into our Asquad. They were equal best in league winners last season and have been impressive so far in the preseason.

“We welcome back Tazma Morris and have recruited Collingwood Magpies training partner Zoe Davies who will play an integral role in replacing Maddy Stewart in defence.

“Claudia Mawson will be one to watch this season, she has had ahugepreseason with MU and has been astandout in our practise matches. has also been among the so far. amazing atmosphere at the and on any Thursday night at training we have more than 40 girls there.

“You can see everyone there wanting to build on what was areally successful season in 2022 the club.”

FOOTY & NETBALL

KYNETONTIGERS

MEN’S FOOTBALL

Former Geelong and Essendon AFL player Norm Smith Medallist, Paul Chapman, is back to coach the Tigers for season 2023 while reserves are being coached by Ryan Pretty Ethan Foreman returns to the Den to coach U18s.

Club president HaydenEvans said the Tigers had retained most of their list from 2022.

“We’ve lost some, but gained some, and confident of being competitive,” Evans said.

“Ethan Foreman returns from Gisborne, local players have stepped up to fill the void players we’ve lost.

“We’ve got some experience but we’ve also some exciting youth.”

Evans said preseason training had been with the players learning Chapman’s game was filtering down through the club.

WOMEN’S FOOTBALL

Kyneton’s Senior Women’s list is looking strong with their transition to the RDFNL The Tigers have retained most of their players and continue to recruit strongly, building afast-paced side for the upcoming season.

Phil Hawkes has signed on for his third year with the Tigers and is now joined by previous VFLW player and current Tigers player, Belinda Hateley, and previous Tigers player, Kylie Munro, as assistants.

The Tigers have been training hard each week in the preseason, both Mondays and Wednesday with the usual suspects re-signing on. This includes 2022 Best and Fairest and runner-up, Teagan Ainslie and Heidi Erasmus, and young gun and 2022 captain, Jordan Savoia.

The team is further bolstered by strong key defenders in Marnie Love, Shannon White and Taylah Moore and is continuing to build on the work of last season in the forward line with the likes of Beth Whittem, Emma Williams and utility Alex Strawhorn. The Tigers will be further motivated by their strong season in 2022 where they missed out on finals due to an administration error.

NETBALL

Di Guest-Oakley returns to coach Agrade for another year, with the hope of coaching the side to some quality finals netball in 2023.

Tayla Read returns to coach Areserve, aiming to consolidate on her team’s development in 2022 with her passion for coaching and clever court strategies.

Teghan Butler has been tasked with the B grade team and the development of the netball preseason program. Her skills in the sport and exercise science space come in handy across all netball grades.

Kirsty Draper returns as aplaying coach and heads up the Breserve team, aiming to have a 2023 with astrong consistent side that is seeking some well-earned success.

Tash McIntyre returns to Kyneton after afew years coaching in the junior space, bringing with her awealthofknowledge and skill. She has high aspirations to develop the strong 17s side into a resilient and versatile playing group.

Anyone wishing to play for KFNC can email kfnc. netball@gmail.com

SEASONLIFTOUT

CASTLEMAINE MAGPIES FOOTBALL NETBALL

The main impetus for the Magpies this year has been to retain as many players as possible, continue to grow the local talent and improve their overall performance from 2022.

The preseason had ashaky start with the loss of Best and Fairest winner Tom Horne and spearhead Zac Denahy.

Since Christmas the club has galvanised and started to make traction on recruiting. Aplethora of past players are returning to the club; Lloyd Butcher (Waverley Blues), Tyson Jackson (Kangaroo Flat), David Wilson (Maldon) and Matt Filo (Lake Boga), which has been areally good boost for the young list. Also adding young midfielder Thomas Wilson (Marong) to the senior squad, the Magpies look forward to

The club had an amazing year in 2022, returning to Agrade netball and making finals in both Ares and Agrade.The netball department is looking to improve upon last year with more grades making it into finals.

Gary Cooke and Fi Fowler remain as joint Agrade and Ares coaches, bringing another year of excitement and experience to the club. New to the club this year is Chloe Hughes who will assist Fi Fowler with Bgrade. Chloe comes to Castlemaine from Colbinabin in the HDFNL where she played in Asquad. Bres this year is co-coached by current player Nikkea Hogan and newcomer Emily Mynard. Emily comes to Castlemaine from Maiden Gully YCW in the LVFNL where she coached a premiership side last year.

The club looks forward to the year and invites new and old members to watch Round 1inMaryborough and Round 2for the Magpies’ first home game at Camp Reserve.

Welcome back to Matt Filo

FOOTY & NETBALL

ROMSEY REDBACKS

LANCEFIELD TIGERS FOOTBALL

Romsey’s new senior coach, former Brisband Lions and Western Bulldogs player Justin Sherman, will be assisted in 2023 by Andrew Bubb and Chris Wilson, both experienced and knowledgeable coaching staff with Chris having coached interleague for the Riddell League.

The club has 99 per cent of last year’s squad back on board and has added 10 to 12 recruits to the senior side, including Jack Slavich from Coburg, Ben Xiriha from Kyneton, Gavin Cathie from Craigieburn and Jack Kinnear from Kilmore.

Sherman is also excited to have two very promising ex-Romsey juniors returning from Gisborne –Darcy Lockens and Sam Wilson.

“All the boys have fitted in really well and it looks like we’ve got good mix of young, middle tier and older players, so we’ve got bases covered,” Sherman said.

“Being top four last year, we feel like we’ve improved the list in agoodpositionfitness wise to have arealcrack at season 23.

“We want to impact towards the end of the year and we want play finals footy. The sky’s the limit for us, it’s going to come down our group to show what we’re capable of.”

NETBALL

Romsey is excited to welcome back a well-known senior coach Lena Way to coach Agrade and lead the netball squad once again.

Lena previously coached in 2016 and 2017 and resulted in the Agrade netball team becoming premiers in 2017.

The Redbacks are also welcoming back some star players to the Agrade team from previous years –Cayley Blair, Kendra Vann, Sally Mitchell, Chelsea Ross are all set to take the court in Romsey colours once again, all have been apart of Romsey Premier teams in the past. Not to forget the many other returning 2022 season players to this season also.

Not only making her return to Romsey as aplayer, Chelsea with also be leading the Bgrade team as coach, and both Christie Brinkhuis and Kirsty Issom are stepping up from players and captains to coaching the U19s and Cgrade sides this season. Redbacks are very excited for the season ahead and looking forward to seeing alot of familiar faces on the netball court.

FOOTBALL

For this season, Lancefield Football Netball Club’s 150th year, the Tigers welcome Tim Bannan as senior coach.

Bannan will be assisted by three quality line coaches: Andrew McTrusty will mentor the backs, Tom Waters takes the midfield and Ryan O’Meara will look after the forwards.

Nathan Scott takes the Reserves coaching role and Lucas Jowett will coach the Under 19s. Avery busy recruiting period sees anumberof new players joining the Tigers for this season. Highlights include the return of Riley O’Meara to Lancefield after a period in the EDFL. Jack Radford will strengthen the forward line and the club has added midfield depth in the form of Zach Webb and Joel Regan. Anumber of exciting young players look set to represent the club this year with Reuben Schembri, Darcy Giles and Leroy Ristevski impressing during preseason training. The return of the experienced Luke Fellows, Alex Simpson and Matt Bowden has the Tigers confident of significant improvement this year.

NETBALL

Lancefield has some exciting new coaches to add to coaching team with Paul Alexander coaching the Under 19s and Danielle Jowett coaching Cgrade. Both bring awealthof knowledge to the club.

Stace Deimos returns to coach the Bgrade team and set the bar high in 2022 with her young team having agreat season making the preliminary finals. She will be focused on trying to go one better this year. Head coach Michelle Rix returns to coach the Agrade team and is extremely excited to see her young talented netballers back on court in 2023.

Photo: J8 Photography

Photo: J8 Photography

2023

RIDDELL BOMBERS

FOOTY & NETBALL

SEASONLIFTOUT

NETBALL

Netball in Bomber town is looking the best it has in years, with Beck Anstey at the helm and Amy Schwegler alongside her.

The Agrade team of 2022 hada disappointing end to the season, bowing out in the second round of finals. However, this has put afireinthe bellyofthe girls to make sure that it doesn’t happen again.

With huge numbers at training and the positive culture building the 2023 season is going to be one to watch across all grades. Beck aims to build afun,winning culture at the Bombers and develop depth across all four grades.

FOOTBALL

Riddell’s 2022 premiership coach Juzzy Belleville is again coaching the senior team in 2023. Ants Power and Dylan Coventry have been appointed as Juzzy’s senior assistants.

Adrian ‘Skippy’ Keltie will again be coaching the reserves and new to the Bombers coaching staff will be Darren Ponton who has awealth of football knowledge and is excited to be coaching the under 19s. Ponts will be assisted by senior club captain Josh Grabham.

The senior 2023 list will again be led by Josh Grabham, and the club has re-signed 2023 McIntyre medallist Callum Williamson, along with Bryce Williamson, Tom Alkemade, Dylan Taczon, grand final goal sneak Nathan Croft, and the ever-reliable Ben Sonogan and Trent Stead.

The development of Riddell’s younger players was vital to the club’s success in 2022 and continues to be amajor focus in 2023. The re-signing of now premiership players Jesse Horton, Jordan Reardon, Brodie Miller and Oscar Besanko is exciting for the club and the Bombers look forward to see how the likes of Harrison Sloss, Darcy McGrath, Oliver Powell develop this year after having agood taste of senior footy in 2022.

The club excited to announce the return of two past captains in Hayden Ross and Matt Panuccio who are both returning from stints in the Ballarat and Bendigo football leagues. In addition, Riddell is pleased to announce key signings in Brad Mundy from Sunbury and Ben Said from Ruperstwood. Riddell’s first game of the season is on April 7– theGood Friday standalone clash against Woodend at Gilbert Gordon Oval in Woodend. Thisgameshould be abeautyand allBomber and Hawks supporters are encouraged to come out in force to support their teams. This will be the only game in the RDFNL that weekend.

Training is one Tuesdays and Thursday at Riddell and numbers have been excellent but the club encourages anyone interested in playing to go along to training.

Thanks go to major sponsors Foodworks Gisborne and Riddells Creek, Riddells Creek Hotel and Retail Business Solutions.

Visit www.riddellfnc.com.au for membership, sponsorship and further contact information.

Netball in 2023 for the Riddell Bombers is averyexciting prospect. Riddell netball this year sees many new faces and some old ones returning, but the focus for both coaches has been to work on development of the local girls.

The Under 19s team is full of new faces and the club can’t wait to see what they can do under the guidance of the coaching group. The Bombers can’t wait to get out on the court for round one on Good Friday at Woodend as it will be great test for the girls with Woodend setting the standard in 2022.

2023

MACEDON CATS

FOOTY & NETBALL SEASONLIFTOUT

WOODEND HAWKS

FOOTBALL FOOTBALL

After ahost of experienced players retired, ahighly successful recruitment drive has added strength to the Macedon Cats’ for season 2023.

“We targeted getting players to return to the club, and also players aged in their 20s, to inject energy and complement the young side and give us astronger list,” senior coach Alistair Meldrum said.

Senior captain Jason Cooke has stepped up to coach Under 19s, and several new recruits are exciting additions.

Former Kyneton captain and midfielder

Hamish Govan has joined the Cattery, as has Nathan Bridgland, amidfielder who played for Riddell last year. Small forward Chris Kendall has moved to Macedon from Quambatook, and key defender

Josh Muir has come across from Sunbury Lions. Defender Jacob Gough has joined the Cats from Therry Penola in VAFA. Also with the Cats now are midfielder Aaron Morham (from Greta), defender

NETBALL

Netball coach Ciara Stewart said the Cats netball teams had hit the courts firing preseason.

“While there was alastminute exit from several of last year’s 19 and Under grand finalists, all other senior teams are ready to go,” Stewart said.

Ned O’Connell (from Doutta Stars in the Essendon League), and key forward Sam Indian (from Whittlesea).

Two juniors have also returned, Jack Hassett (from Kyneton) and Jordan Reeves (from Woodend).

Macedon FNC is on the hunt for Under 19 football and netball players and is offering free membership for them when they sign up.

Momentum is building at Woodend-Hesket as agreat preseason draws to aclose. December 2022 posed aslight problem with no access to either of the two football grounds, after heavy spring rainfall. This did not dampen spirits and good numbers from all three teams showed up and got to work. Arecent preseason camp was ahuge success and the club thanks Brian Purcell from Woodend Health and Fitness for his help and access to the local gym for the day.

In 2023 Josh Pound returns as senior coach, the Reserves will be coached by Rob Styles and Matt Spiteri and Jeremy Penefather returns to coach the 19s. The club is excited to have local players Ethan Minns and Daniel Toman returning to the club. The Hawks are definitely aiming to play finals footy this year.

WOMEN’S FOOTBALL

The Hawks are very excited to have their first senior women’s football team compete in the inaugural season in the league. Anumber of players from the successful WJFNC Youth team who won the premiership in 2022 are ready to step up into the senior competition. Colin Bromley will coach the team and the club is actively recruiting new players and everyone is welcome. The club will be aiming to continue the success from the junior competition.

NETBALL

With excellent numbers across all the grades in netball this year, the Hawks are looking forward to areallystrong year on the back of the Agrade team being runners-up in 2022. It has been great to see alarge number of returningplayers as well as new faces who have strengthened all of the teams. With the majority of 19s players from last year moving into the senior sides, it’s terrific to see the young talent come up from the WJFNC.

Cgrade has the majority of their premiership side with afew of the Cat’s juniors strengthening the team. Bgrade has all but one player returning –Sammy,now assistant coach for B grade. This has opened aposition for young goaler Eliza Petherick and player 10 is rounded off by Taylah Chamra who returns to Bgrade.

Agrade has recruited well this year with the addition of Hetty Donoghue in goals and Bronte Green who has permanently signed for Macedon. Alex August-Leifi will move into defence and Chloe Wilson will return.

Sarah Duff will be coaching the 19s this year, Anne-Louise Lindner Cgrade, Kellie Duff Bgrade andMeg Grbac returning as Agrade and head coach. The club is delighted that the reigning Ryan Medallist, Ty Coppinger, will be playing again this year. Later in the year, the club is looking forward to the construction of two new netball courts, which have been funded by the Victorian Government and Macedon Ranges Shire Council. The season officially kicks off on Good Friday April 7asthe Hawkshost Riddell at Gilbert Gordon Oval.

Senior Women’sfootballersatthe Come ‘n’Try training session held in February.

Ty Coppinger –reigning Ryan Medallist.

TRENTHAM SAINTS

TheSaintshave abeen working hard in the preseason with good numbers and agoodzest for the upcoming season.

Round one of the home and away season kicks off at home on April 15 against Navarre.

New coach Clive Raak is taking the helm as senior football coach, with Dolf Reid ready to back up the reserves and U11.5s again.

Clive has adifferent approach with an intent to bring the Saints to anew level of competition.

“The 2023 is playing group is excited about the modern style of football and the new training methods, they have embraced the change to guarantee our success,” Raak said.

“Preseason attendance has been great, Ihaveenjoyed meeting all the players and appreciate the support of fellow coaches, the committee and valuable volunteers who show up every week to ensure we have what we need.

“No ifs or buts, we will be victorious, and we will succeed.”

Jason Shaw and Jay Hamilton will take charge of the U14.5s team. Trentham won’t be able to field an U17.5 this season however the club is optimistic for next season and beyond.

Sharna Ford returns as Aand BGrade netball coach with long-time local Holly Wheeldon leading CGrade.

Junior levels U17s, U15, U13 and U11 are being coached by Emma Whelan and Daniel Thek. The juniors will be assisted through the junior coaching program with Georgia Harvey-Courts and Kendra Crocker.

Club president Tim White thanked the entire Saints family for their support.

“The 2022 season was agreat success, our mighty reserves bringing home the cup was no small victory,” White said.

“There has been alot of work happening around the club during the break. It is anticipated that the new facilities build will be completed very soon, we are so keen move into our new home before season 2023 kicks off in April.

“The new gatehouse will be avaluable addition for the gate attendees welcoming everyone on game day.

“Watch our socials for regular updates and details on registering for the 2023 season.”

Trentham and Districts Community Bank is proud to be major sponsor of the Trentham Football Netball Club.

“These sponsorships focus on growing the sporting and social community,” said board co-chair Jane Williams.

“We love our local football and netball clubs –they are such an important part of our community in so many ways.”

Senior Bombers coach Damien Lock will be assisted by reserves coach Trent McIntosh in season 2023.

Club president Jamie Cox said the Bombers had lost a few older players to retirement but had recruited well to cover those losses.

“Come down to our Good Friday clash to see our new recruits in action,” Cox said.

While the Bombers suffered alot of injuries late last year, the mostly younger playing group in 2023 aims to be atop-four side this year.

“We’ve got avery good Under 17.5s side and we want to blood alot of kids in our reserves and seniors this year as they’re the future of our club,” Cox said.

“We’ve finally got areally strong junior structure within the club and we’re starting to reap the benefits of it.

“We’ve got 29 kids in our Under 17.5s side.

“They finished top of the ladder but got put out in the preliminary final so they’re hungry for redemption this year.

“They’re coached by Mark Cananzi who has coached them right through juniors to almost adulthood and he’s played a big part in building our junior program.

“This year is the club’s 150th anniversary and we’re pushing very hard for success to celebrate our 150 years.”

MALDON BOMBERS FOOTBALL NETBALL

Aand Bgrade coach Liz Woodward will be assisted by her 19-year-old son, Kouper, who is passionate about netball and is preparing to start umpiring as well.

Cgrade coach Hayley Peake returns and the Under 15s and 17s are being led by premiership coach Tim Williams. The U13s and U11s coaches are Rebecca Buchanan and Emma Webb.

Woodward said the club aimed to strengthen and promote the existing playing group in 2023.

“I have focused on promoting our existing playing group and have our returning players be rewarded for their commitment to the club,” she said.

“All three senior grades played in finals last year and our aim is to build on how we finished.

“It’s also abig year of milestones to tick off with the 150th anniversary, so we’ll be looking to reach finals again and take it further to bring home a premiership cup or two!”

HollyWheeldon, Sharna Fordand Clive Raak.

NEWSTEAD KANGAROOS FOOTBALL

2023 sees the club appointing Joel Smith as head coach and Derrick Filo as assistant coach and chairman of selectors.

This coaching model is working well and they are doing agreat job getting the senior football department ready for the season. “I’m excited to see the improvement we can get out of the group and hopefully getting them to the finals,” Smith said.

“It’ll be encouraging to see what our fresh faces will bring to the team this season.”

Jonty Entwistle will again lead the Reserves. He took the Reserves to the preliminary final last year and is determined to go one better this year.

“Training has been promising, it’s been good to get out there again and improve our fitness and skills,” Entwhistle said.

“We are ready to go one better this season.”

NETBALL

Newstead netball has had another prosperous recruitment period, filling up all senior grades in preseason training alongside some new players coming on board and joining the pouch!

The Aand Bteams arebeing coached by Newstead girl, Brianna Jury. Jury has played Aand Bgrade for Newstead for anumber of years, regularly finishing in the top players for Best and Fairest.

“Our Agrade team has the Marshall sisters joining us in mid-court alongside Gina Ross and Verity Gartside in goals –aforce to be reckoned with!” Jury said.

“B grade is also looking strong with some new faces added to our solid team from last year.”

Cgrade will be coached again by Ashlee Plant who took the girls to the finals last year.

“It’s exciting for Cgrade as we have some returning players in Gemma Ainscough and Taylah Hill, as well as some new faces in defence with Courtney James and Danielle Ann,” Plant said.

The club’s first game is on Saturday April 15 at home, where they will be facing Talbot.

Aand Bgrade netball coachBrianna Jury

HARCOURT LIONS

NETBALL FOOTBALL

On the back of asuccessful 2022 season, Harcourt Lions are looking to continue to build.

The 2022 premiers have acoaching change, with co-coach Alex Code stepping down after three years. This allows Daniel Wridgway to take the reins by himself. Wridgway will be supported by experienced assistant coaches –Paul Chaplin and star recruit Kal Huntly. The Lions have been busy in the off season strengthening their list, recruiting Kal Huntly, Kaleb McBride, Brodie Browne-Kerr, Luke Anderson (North Bendigo), Baxter Gurd (Golden Square) and Bronson Martin. Kal, alocal Harcourt junior, joins the Lions after astint with Port Douglas and will make an immediate impact with his strength, penetrating kick and skills. McBride played apivotal role in Harcourt’s unbeaten 2021 season and will be back after aseason in the BFNL with Castlemaine. Harcourt have also added to their ruck stocks recruiting a

local Brodie Browne-Kerr. Although he is young, his height and agility provide the Lions with akey position option as well as aruck to complement the Berry-Powell medallist Brayden Frost.

“It’s an exciting time to be at Harcourt Football Netball Club,” Wridgway said.

“The under 17.5 are back up and running which is important for the sustainability and longevity of our club. Some fresh faces in Jimmy Gale and Jack Smith are coaching the reserves and have been busy recruiting.

“The senior list is young, extremely talented and driven.

“We’ve added some quality players to our list and with the organic growth of our younger guys we would expect to feature heavily come September.

“If you’re keen to join our club in aplaying, voluntary or supporting role everyone is always welcome.”

CAMPBELLS CREEK MAGPI

are looking to build on their season, as they gear up for 2023. are very happy to welcome senior football and netball coaching duo, Kris and Jordan Bagley, both of whom have a of knowledge and skills in and his assistants have been playing group hard over prelooking forward to round pleased to see so many new players over the past few welcomes Daniel Petter into the coaching role. Daniel has been senior coach, as well as juniors, he has also being an interleague coach, and AFL coach. Theclub is excited what he brings this year. thanks to Luke Dzioba, for all in this role last year. was fantastic to have so many attend the recent netball tryouts. Jordan, Nikki Bell and Liv Elliot are excited to see all these fabulous

The team has had a productive off-season, recruiting anumber of experienced and talented players to round out the squad. The coaching staff have been putting the team through agruelling training program, ensuring they will be in peak condition for the upcoming campaign. The Lions have also been using the time to build the team’s mental and psychological strength, something they have identified as a key to success.

players in action. Creek will have all grades of netball, right through from U11s to AGrade. Junior players will be developed, nurtured and guided by experienced coaches May Pratt and Maria Briggs.

The club is entering an U14.5 football team this year, the first time it has had this grade since 2018.

Wayne Walsh is back coaching the kids and he’s looking forward to working with the other junior coaches; Tyson Williams and Chris Morgan.

The junior footballers will be playing in brand-new jumpers this year, thanks to the generosity of boththe Harcourt LionsClub and Rural and Outdoors.

Creekers want to give ashout out to everyone who has got behind the club, especially the Five Flags Hotel in Campbells Creek. Small clubs don’t survive without the generosity of their sponsors and volunteers.

If anyone is interested in joining the club as aplayer or member, they can contact club president Scott Jones on 0423 068 137, and for any sponsorship enquiries, contact sponsorship manager Stuart Rayner on 0408 864 208.

2023

FOOTY & NETBALL

SEASONFIXTURES

Round 1–April 15

SouthBendigo vEaglehawk

Gisborne vStrathfieldsaye

Maryborough vCastlemaine

Sandhurst vKangaroo Flat

Golden Squarev Kyneton

Round 2–April 22

Castlemaine vGisborne

Eaglehawk vMaryborough

Kangaroo Flat vSouthBendigo

Kyneton vSandhurst

Strathfieldsaye vGolden Square

Round 3–April 29

Gisborne vEaglehawk

Maryborough vKangarooFlat

SouthBendigo vKyneton

Sandhurst vGolden Square

Castlemaine vStrathfieldsaye

Round 4–May 6

Kangaroo Flat vGisborne

Kyneton vMaryborough

Golden Squarev South Bendigo

Strathfieldsaye vSandhurst

Eaglehawk vCastlemaine

Round 5–May 13

Gisborne vKyneton

Maryborough vGolden Square

South Bendigo vSandhurst

Castlemaine vKangaroo Flat

Strathfieldsaye vEaglehawk

BYE–May 20

Round 6–May 27

Golden Squarev Gisborne

Sandhurst vMaryborough

South Bendigo vStrathfieldsaye

Kyneton vCastlemaine

Kangaroo Flat vEaglehawk

Round 7–June3

Gisborne vSandhurst

Maryborough vSouthBendigo

Castlemaine vGolden Square

Eaglehawk vKyneton

Strathfieldsaye vKangarooFlat

Round 8–June10

South Bendigo vGisborne

Maryborough vStrathfieldsaye

Sandhurst vCastlemaine

Golden Squarev Eaglehawk

Kyneton vKangaroo Flat

Round 9–June17

Gisborne vMaryborough

Castlemaine vSouth Bendigo

Eaglehawk vSandhurst

Kangaroo Flat vGolden Square

Strathfieldsaye vKyneton

Round 10 –June 24

Strathfieldsaye vGisborne

Castlemaine vMaryborough

Eaglehawk vSouth Bendigo

Kangaroo Flat vSandhurst

Kyneton vGolden Square

BYE–July1

Round 11 –July8

Gisborne vCastlemaine

Maryborough vEaglehawk

South Bendigo vKangaroo Flat

Sandhurst vKyneton

Golden Squarev Strathfieldsa

Round 12 –July15

Eaglehawk vGisborne

Kangaroo Flat vMaryborough

Kyneton vSouth Bendigo

Golden Squarev Sandhurst

Strathfieldsaye vCastlemaine

Round 13 –July22

Gisborne vKangaroo Flat

Maryborough vKyneton

SouthBendigo vGolden Square

Sandhurst vStrathfieldsaye

Castlemaine vEaglehawk

Round 14 –July29

Kyneton vGisborne

Golden Squarev Maryborough

Sandhurst vSouth Bendigo

Kangaroo Flat vCastlemaine

Eaglehawk vStrathfieldsaye

Round 15 –August 5

Gisborne vGolden Square

Maryborough vSandhurst

Strathfieldsaye vSouth Bendigo

Castlemaine vKyneton

Eaglehawk vKangaroo Flat

Round 16 –August 12

Sandhurst vGisborne

SouthBendigo vMaryborough

Golden Squarev Castlemaine

Kyneton vEaglehawk

Kangaroo Flat vStrathfieldsaye

Round 17 –August 19

Gisborne vSouth Bendigo

Strathfieldsaye vMaryborough

Castlemaine vSandhurst

Eaglehawk vGolden Square

Kangaroo Flat vKyneton

Round 18 –August 26

Maryborough vGisborne

SouthBendigo vCastlemaine

Sandhurst vEaglehawk

Golden Squarev Kangaroo Flat

Kyneton vStrathfieldsaye

FINALS SERIES

Qualifying Final

September 2

Elimination Final September 3

Second Semi Final September 9

First Semi Final September 10

PreliminaryFinal

September16

Grand Final September 23

Round 1–April 1

Western Rams vMelton Centrals

April 15

Diggers Rest vWoodend-Hesket

Riddell vMacedon

Romseyv Wallan

Lancefield –BYE

Round 2–April 22

Melton Centrals vWallan

Riddell vWestern Rams

Woodend-Hesket vLancefield

April 25

Macedon vDiggers Rest

Romsey–BYE

Round 3–April 7

Woodend-Hesket vRiddell

April 29

Melton Centrals vRomsey

Diggers Rest vLancefield

Wallan vWestern Rams

Macedon -BYE

Round 4–May 6

Western Rams vWoodend-Hesket

Lancefield vMelton Centrals

RomseyvRiddell

Macedon vWallan

Diggers Rest –BYE

Round 5–May 13

Woodend-Hesket vMeltonCentrals

Western Rams vRomsey

RiddellvDiggers Rest

Lancefield vMacedon

Wallan –BYE

Round 6–May 20

Melton Centrals vMacedon

Diggers Rest vWestern Rams

Wallan vLancefield

Romseyv Woodend-Hesket

Riddell–BYE

Round 7–May 27

Melton Centrals vRiddell

Wallan vDiggers Rest

Lancefield vRomsey

Macedon vWoodend-Hesket

Western Rams –BYE

Round 8–June 3

Woodend-Hesket vWallan

Western Rams vMacedon

RiddellvLancefield

Romseyv Diggers Rest

Melton Centrals –BYE

Round 9–June 17

Diggers Rest vMelton Centrals

Wallan vRiddell

Lancefield vWestern Rams

Macedon vRomsey

Woodend-Hesket –BYE

Round 10 –June24

Melton Centrals vLancefield

Woodend-Hesket vDiggers Rest

Wallan vRomsey

Western Rams vRiddell

Macedon –BYE

Round 11 –July1

Melton Centrals vWestern Rams

Wallan vMacedon

Lancefield vDiggers Rest

RiddellvWoodend-Hesket

Romsey–BYE

Round 12 –July 8

Western Rams vWallan

Lancefield vWoodend-Hesket

Romseyv Melton Centrals

Macedon vRiddell

Diggers Rest –BYE

Round 13 –July 15

Diggers Rest vMacedon

Woodend-Hesket vWestern Rams

Wallan vMelton Centrals

Riddell vRomsey

Lancefield –BYE

Round 14 –July22

Melton Centrals vWoodend-Hesket

Diggers Rest vWallan

Romseyv Western Rams

Macedon vLancefield

Riddell–BYE

Round 15 –July29

Diggers Rest vRiddell

Woodend-Hesket vRomsey

Western Rams vLancefield

Macedon vMelton Centrals

Wallan –BYE

Round 16 –August 5

Western Rams vDiggers Rest

Lancefield vWallan

RiddellvMelton Centrals

Romseyv Macedon

Woodend-Hesket –BYE

Round 17 –August 12

Diggers Rest vRomsey

Wallan vWoodend-Hesket

Lancefield vRiddell

Macedon vWestern Rams

Melton Centrals –BYE

Round 18 –August 19

Melton Centrals vDiggers Rest

Woodend-Hesket vMacedon

RiddellvWallan

Romseyv Lancefield

Western Rams –BYE

FINALS SERIES

Qualifying and Elimination

Finals -August 26 and 27

Semi Finals

September 2and 3

PreliminaryFinal

September 9

GrandFinal

September 17

Round 1–April 15

Maldon vCampbellsCreek

Natte Bealiba vDunolly

Avoca vMaryborough Rovers

Lexton vHarcourt

RoyalPark vCarisbrook

Trentham vNavarre

Newstead vTalbot

Round 2–April 7

Maldon vDunolly

April 22

Maryborough Rovers vNatte Bealiba

HarcourtvAvoca

Lexton vNewstead

Campbells Creek vCarisbrook

RoyalPark vTrentham

NavarrevTalbot

Round 3–April 29

Maldon vMaryborough Rovers

Natte Bealiba vHarcourt

Avoca vLexton

Carisbrook vDunolly

Trentham vCampbells Creek

Talbot vRoyalPark

Newstead vNavarre

Round 4–May 6

Harcourtv Maldon

Lexton vNatte Bealiba

Avoca vNewstead

Dunolly vTrentham

Campbells Creek vTalbot

RoyalPark vNavarre

Maryborough Rovers vCarisbrook

Round 5–May 13

Maldon vLexton

Natte Bealiba vAvoca

Carisbrook vHarcourt

Trentham vMaryborough Rovers

Talbot vDunolly

NavarrevCampbells Creek

Newstead vRoyalPark

Round 6–May 20

Avoca vMaldon

Natte BealibevNewstead

Lexton vCarisbrook

Harcourtv Trentham

Maryborough Rovers vTalbot

Dunolly vNavarre

Campbells Creek vRoyalPark

Round 7–May 27

Maldon vNatte Bealiba

Carisbrook vAvoca

Trentham vLexton

Talbot vHarcourt

NavarrevMaryborough Rovers

RoyalPark vDunolly

Newstead vCampbells Creek

Round 8–June 3

Newstead vMaldon

Carisbrook vNatte Bealiba

Trentham vAvoca

Talbot vLexton

NavarrevHarcourt

RoyalPark vMaryborough Rovers

Campbells Creek vDunolly

BYE–June 10

Round 9–June 17

Maldon vCarisbrook

Natte Bealiba vTrentham

Avoca vTalbot

Lexton vNavarre

HarcourtvRoyalPark

Maryborough Rovers v

Campbells Creek

Dunolly vNewstead

Round 10 –June24

Trentham vMaldon

Talbot vNatte Bealiba

NavarrevAvoca

RoyalPark vLexton

CampbellsCreek vHarcourt

DunollyvMaryborough Rovers

Newstead vCarisbrook

BYE–July 1

Round 11 –July8

Maldon vTalbot

Natte Bealiba vNavarre

Avoca vRoyalPark

Lexton vCampbellsCreek

HarcourtvDunolly

Newstead vMaryborough Rovers

Carisbrook vTrentham

Round 12 –July 15

NavarrevMaldon

RoyalPark vNatte Bealiba

Campbells Creek vAvoca

Dunolly vLexton

Maryborough Rovers vHarcourt

Talbot vCarisbrook

Trentham vNewstead

Round 13 –July 22

Maldon vRoyalPark

Natte Bealibav Campbells Creek

Avoca vDunolly

Lexton vMaryborough Rovers

Newstead vHarcourt

Carisbrook vNavarre

Trentham vTalbot

Round 14 –July 29

Campbells Creek vMaldon

Dunolly vNatte Bealiba

Maryborough Rovers vAvoca

HarcourtvLexton

August 5

Carisbrook vRoyalPark

NavarrevTrentham

Talbot vNewstead

Round 15 –August 12

Dunolly vMaldon

Natte Bealiba v

Maryborough Rovers

Avoca vHarcourt

Newstead vLexton

Carisbrook vCampbellsCreek

Trentham vRoyalPark

Talbot vNavarre

Round 16 –August 19

Maryborough Rovers vMaldon

HarcourtvNatte Bealiba

Lexton vAvoca

Dunolly vCarisbrook

Campbells Creek vTrentham

RoyalParkvTalbot

NavarrevNewstead

FINALS SERIES

Qualifying and Elimination

Finals -August 26and 27

Semi Finals

September 2and 3

Preliminar

September and Grand

September

YourOPINIONS @

Newrebates for schools

Lisa ChestersMP, Federal Member forBendigo

Iamencouraging local schools to take advantage of new rebates to visit the nation’s capital in 2023.

New rebates for schools available via the Parliament and Civics Education Rebate program will make it more affordable for schools and students across the country to visit Canberra this year as part of their civics and citizenship education.

The program includes visits to Australia’s Parliament, the Australian War Memorial, the Museum of Australian Democracy, and the National Electoral Education Centre at Old Parliament House.

Istronglyencourage all schools in the Bendigo electorate to consider avisit to Canberra and see Australia’s democracy in action.

The additional funding will also apply to those schools which have already completed visits through the PACER initiative in 2023.

For more information on the PACER rebates available to schools visit www. pacer.org.au.

Worst possible time

Alison Joseph, Bullengarook

The other week Iwrote to point out that Bega Council had addressed the housing and rental shortage by allowing secondary dwellings.

Essays on Earth

Isee Macedon Ranges Shire Council, rather than trying to address the affordable housing problem, has now doubled down on encouraging homelessness. Under existing local laws it is legal to occupy acaravan where there is an existing dwelling on aproperty (given certain conditions are met).

Ibelieve this clause may have originated to help solve the issue of youth homelessness.

Under the proposed draft Local Laws 2023, the council is proposing to prohibiting occupation for more than three months.

What deeply concerns me is that the council has failed to mention this major change to policy, suggesting that this isa mere 'clarification', when it is not. Given the enormous housing crisis andworsening economic outlook, this is the worst possible time for limiting accommodation options in the shire. Perhaps the council should reconsider?

Disappointing decision

Jenny, Barfold

Iamvery disappointed with the Macedon Ranges Shire Council's rejection of affordable housing plans in Kyneton for seniors ('Lifestyle village rejected', Midland Express,March 28).

The current housing issues for the homeless, or people needing affordable public housing, has await list of over 10 years if you wish to live on your own.

The regular applicant list was displaced by the flood-affected families as amatter of priority.

Surely council could have negotiated with the developers to facilitate moving forward.

Road safety and traffic would likely have been taken into consideration when it was planned for Bunnings and Elders to be located to this part of town.

Apublicbus service if crossing the freeway would enable shopping for groceries.

As it is proposed as an independent living facility, the tenants will most likely be of sound mind, to be able to manage traffic.

Mingling residential and industrial can make for agoodmix

As aresident from north of Kyneton, we know Melbourne is moving closer all the time, so it'stime council got with the program.

Ihope the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal will approve the lifestyle village.

Writers areaskedtokeep letters to a maximum of 300 words. Longer letters may only be published at the editor's discretion.

Names, addresses and contact phone numbers must be included for verification purposes. Email letters to: acrawford@midnews.com.au

Local knowledge (1 point)

1. Romsey’s Emily Perkins represented Australia in which UK event last month?

2. When does the 2023 Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival take place?

3. Where is The Hub located in Castlemaine?

4. Which Mount Alexander and Macedon Ranges towns are included in the latest Adventure Bingo walking tracks? (3 points)

5. Who won the 2023 McIntyre Cup grand final?

General knowledge

(1 point)

6. How many sides does atrapezium have?

7. Who is the captain of theAustralian men’s cricket team?

8. Who penned the 1986 novel It?

9. The parietal lobe is located where in the human body? (3 points)

10. In which Australian state or territory is Mount Welliington?

The Castlemaine State Festival continues this week. Last Saturday, video installation Essays on Earth was unveiled at The Good Shed.

The multichannel video installation, which slowly unravels around the internal walls of The Goods Shed like aJapanese scroll, is built around Paul Kane’s sonorous reading of his epic poem on the themes of earth, water, fire and air.

The unfolding images use macro photography of paintings by John Wolseley filled with pond life, birds, carbon traces and geological rubbings. This is the perfect match for the experimental microscopy of Brodie Ellis, whose work investigates the ethics of how our limited natural resources are being used. You can catch Essays on Earth from today until Friday between 12-4pm and this weekend April 8and 9between 10am and 4pm. Entry is free. For more on this and all the other festival festivities visit castlemainefestival.com.au.

Bringing historyhome

ACastlemaine maritime connection to Williamstown led Mount Alexander Shire councillors to step back in time last month.

Councillors toured the historic ship, HMAS CastlemaineatGem Pier and brought home an original piece of the ship.

Commonly known as acorvette, the heritage-registered HMAS Castlemaine was named after the Mount Alexander town.

Constructed during World War II, the ship undertook campaigns in wartime throughout the Pacific, Darwin and New Guinea before it was de-commissioned in 1945.

Since 1974, volunteers with the Maritime Trust of Australia have worked to maintain and restore the ship to its former historic glory.

The group runs tours of the HMAS Castlemaine and visitors can experience how crews lived and worked during wartime, and learn about Australia’s maritime history.

Mount Alexander Shire Council’s mayor Rosie Annear was thrilled to see the efforts being made to preserve apiece of history.

“The ship is filled with historical items that all relate to that era –there’s original compasses, cutlasses, and aMorse code unit has even been hooked up!” she said.

“The level of historic detail on the ship is amazing, and each of the pieces of memorabilia create an ‘authentic’ experience of what life would have been like on board, during her heyday.”

Councillors were presented with framed historical photographs of the HMAS Castlemaine, along with aplaque made from timber from the ship’s original mast.

“We’re rapt that after so many years, we are able to bring a piece of the original ship back to Castlemaine," Cr Annear said.

“There’s another local connection in the HMAS Castlemaine story too, with alot of the infrastructure constructed by Kelly and Lewis (formerly Thompsons Foundry).”

CrsMatthewDriscoll, Rosie Annear and Christine Henderson board the ship.

CatchEssays on Earth on nowatThe Goods Shed.

Covering the Macedon Ranges and Mount Alexander Shires

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

ELLIOTT MIDLAND NEWSPAPERS

KYNETON

3Market St., PO Box153,Kyneton, 3444

Telephone: (03) 5422 1488

Facsimile: General (03) 5422 3173

CASTLEMAINE

13 Hargraves St.,POBox 227,Castlemaine,3450

Telephone: (03) 5472 1788

Birthday Club

Plenty to carp about

The 2023 Kyneton Marist Brothers Old Boys visit to Torrumbarry Weir Tourist Park last month was memorable in a number of ways.

The total fire ban imposed for Saturday March 18 meant that the customary ute load of firewood brought up by president Roly Sandilands was not used in the campfire for cooking, rubbish disposal and comfort.

The management of the park changed hands recently but the superficial procedural changes did not cause any conflict.

COVID had been put out of mind but the various strains of encephalitis virulent along the Murray River had seen most pack mosquito repellent.

Gerry and John Lavery from Mildura were late cancellations due to COVID entering the family home and the affected one “coughing one’s guts up”. But all other acceptors arrived and settled in.

The five accommodation cabins were allocated on afirst in best dressed basis and the three days provisions packed away and yarning took over until lunch.

Spokesperson Michael Halley said the afternoon was asettling in period with stragglers still arriving.

"The recent devastating flooding along the Murray River has caused carp numbers to increase to astronomical numbers," Michael said.

"The fishers amongst us found out that reports were true, and each caught only the obnoxious carp, which they carped about!

"But by the time Mick Plowman and his assistants barbecued porterhouse steaks and prepared vegetables, all had arrived and selected asleepingplace.

"Most, after day’s travelling, retired to bed but the football on television kept the tragics up until the final siren."

Michael said Saturday dawned and a buffet breakfast of bacon, eggs and toast was welcomed by the well-rested.

"Some were not seen even at lunchtime but the brave ventured outdoors," he said.

"The total fire ban and the over 40 degree temperatures kept shade at apremium.The raffle tobolster our finances was sold out except for one book that was unopened and still at Kyneton.

"As advertised, the draw took place at noon and ticket 105 sold by Cliff Dawes was the winning one.The winning ticket had been bought by Gary Buckley whois now agrand richer.

"The Buckley family are well entrenched in the Old Boys. An unnamed Buckley was aplayer in the school’s first football team in 1926.

"The residual money will be used for our community support, but in particular the school bursaries and student gifts."

Michael said that as twilight approached the catering contingent brought forward coldchickens and corned beef to supplement the mashed crème royale potatoes supplied by Artie Clarke.

Michael provided dessert each day. Friday was asteamed pudding with custard and cream and Saturday abutterscotch sponge cake. Ashort remembrance with aminute's silence was held to acknowledge Old Boys that have been added to their deceased Honour Roll.

Brian Fleming was the adjudicator for the Possum Trophy that is allocated at this weekend gathering. He selected Bill Young who had emulated Maxwell Smart with ashoephone.Billwas one of the fishers and vocal about losing afish that maynot have beenacarp. To add insult toinjury when entering acabin he slipped and lost ashoe and his phone.

Aftermuchsearching the shoe was found, but looking for the phone continued until it was noted inside the shoe.Bill now has his name inscribed on the trophy along with the past winners and is custodian for ayear.

The 2024visit will be on the agenda for the next Management Committee meeting. Based on the many “see you next year” departure messages, it seems that the decision will be in the affirmative.

loves youall year round

and honest advice on effective, affordable solutions for you to have ahomethatloves you all year round.

It’s afree event, with afternoon tea provided. Sunday May 7from1.30pm to 4pm at Riddells Creek Neighbourhood House.

Places are limited, so to book your spot or contact the event organiser, go to www. trybooking.com/CGWTJ

You can find out more about Cool Changes Riddells Creek at www.mrsc.vic. gov.au/About-Council/News/Have-YourSay/Cool-Changes-Riddells-Creek

The Kyneton Marist BrothersOld Boys gather at TorrumbarryWeirTourist Park.

Cropping, grazing andlifestyle

This highly sought-after property is located approximately 75 minutes to Melbourne Airport, 30 minutes to Kyneton and 12 minutes to Heathcote. It has been in the same family ownership for more than 50 years.

Lot 1(153acres /62hectares) has Back Creek frontage, four paddocks plus smaller holding paddocks and five dams. It includes abush shack and shearing shed (in disrepair). Lot 2(235acres /95hectares) has ahayshed, three paddocks and three dams.

Lot 3(105acres /42hectares) has Back Creek and Pohlman Creek frontage and two paddocks.

Approximately 300 acres is arable, with potential for further agricultural development. Gently undulating country comprising grey/brown sedimentary soils. Mostly cleared with small areas of timber retained on each lot for shade and shelter for livestock. Levelled sites for construction of further buildings on Lot 1ifrequired.

This is exceptional wool growing country (also ideal for breeding or fat lambs), and the fertile soils present an outstanding opportunity to establish avineyard in the highly deco-

Property: ‘Burnbank’ on 494acres (selling as awhole or in three lots)

Address: 1110 Heathcote-Spring Plains Road,Mia Mia

Expression of interest: Closes WednesdayApril 19,2pm

Agent: Elders Bendigo

Contact: 5443 1744 /Martin Skahill 0427431 744

rated Heathcote wine region. The property is located just minutes from Lake Eppalock, an aquatic playground where locals and visitors enjoy afullrange of water activities including boating, swimming and fishing. Inspection by appointment.

Grandeur andromance

So close to Melbourne, this private property sits in the middle of the beautiful undulating Macedon Ranges.

As you approach Willandra, you have glimpses of the home through the trees and the garden. Crossing the bridge over the seasonal creek, you will be excited by the charm of this property. With its gently curved driveway the grand Federation-style homestead will unveil itself. Yes, Willandra is set to steal your heart.

Constructed in 1999, the north-facing elevated residence has awide verandah, perfectly positioned to take in spectacular views of the 40-acre (approx.) property and the Cobaw Ranges. There are changing views from the wide wrap around veranda, the generous windows and the french doors throughout the home.

Inside the sense of grandeur continues with 3m high ceilings, wide hallways and spacious living areas. Solid timber doors, feature lead lighting, decorative cornice and brass hardware are all in keeping. Note the warm Queensland brush-box timber flooring.

There are four bedrooms, three being double sized with their very own ensuites, one with aclawfoot bath and heri-

tage styling and the main with adouble stepless shower, dual vanity and heated floor.

The main living area is big and bright. Afree-standing wood heater brings more romance and radiates warmth throughout the home. Acommercial grade reverse-cycle air conditioner provides easy comfort and double glazing along with first-class insulation further aid in temperature control. Asecond living space is ideal for children or as ahome library.

As you would expect, the generous kitchen is all class. Features and appointments include aherringbone-tiled splashback, stone benchtops, soft close cabinetry, walk-in pantry, Smeg oven and dual dishwasher.

From the adjoining dining area, step out onto freshly laid eco-deck, ready for your oversized outdoor furniture. Beyond, explore the beautifully executed garden rooms ranging from formal, Japanese inspired, native and productive. Behold the spectacular birdlife; fairy-wrens, kingfishers, pardalotes, honeyeaters and many more.

Excellent infrastructure includes alarge shed with concrete floor, stables, afull-sized menage, tack room, open

bay shed, an ornamental garden cottage and adouble carport with covered walkway access to the home. Additional noteworthy points: 6.2-kilowatt solar system, three dams, and asmall clump of rare local black gums found only in this area.

Newham is aquaint village setting with ageneral store and primary school, nestled between Woodend and Kyneton. Take steps today to make this dream of home and lifestyle package your reality.

Property: ‘Willandra’on40acres

Address: 348 Bolgers Lane,Newham

Auction: SundayApril 16, 11.30am

Priceguide: $2,750,000 -$2,900,000

Agent: RayWhiteKyneton

c

Some things in lifeevoke immediate joy. Visualiseaprivate,tranquiland spacious block filled with beautifulcottage gardens, mature trees, manicured lawns andvegetable plots;and setwithin, a charming weatherboard cottage.

3/30Wheeler Street representsa stellar opportunity forretirees, downsizers and investors.Infact, asmall family would also enjoythe generous proportionsand fabulous lifestyleofferingsofthisthreebedroombrick townhouse

Contact: Nathanial Briggs 0400 820 805 3 a

Rural retreat spaceand feel

This outstanding family property on an almost one-acre corner allotment combines the space and serenity of arural retreat with easy access to the bustling heart of town.

With beautiful rural vistas, shedding and aprivate, grassed north-facing field, it’s hard to believe ahome with so much space is tucked away two minutes from the centre of Castlemaine.

The brick home has been recently renovated and offers modern family living among terraced gardens, many shade trees, large front and rear yards with mature eucalypts and outdoor entertaining nooks.

There are excellent family living spaces with two large living zones plus aseparate study/home office.

Four bedrooms with robes and ceiling fans, and recently

renovated main and ensuite bathrooms.

Awell-equipped newkitchen features awalk-in pantry, stone benchtops, induction cooktop and garden views.

Split system air conditioning and hydronic heating for year-round comfort.

Asubstantial 6.6KW solar system helps offset electricity costs.

Outdoors, find several paved pergolas, abarbecue area and a9.8mx6mgarage-workshop with concrete floor and power, plus fenced secure rear yard.

Along, paved driveway sweeps to alarge double carport, while pathways encircle the home connecting outdoor areas and verandahs.

Ideally situated just over 1kmfrom shops and the town

CBD plus located just minutes away from the Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park for bush walking, mountain biking and bird watching.

This spacious refreshed residence in aprime location offers plenty of scope for further expansion (STCA) now or in the future.

Property: Family sanctuary in heartland locale

Address: 8-12 CoulthardStreet, Castlemaine

Price: $1,295,000

Agent: Belle Property Castlemaine

Contact: 5470 5811

4 2 3 10

Located on a1308sqm corner allotment, this beautifully presented family home also boasts alarge American Barn style shed.

As you enter this gorgeous home you are greeted with alarge formal dining area off to the right and alarge lounge area off to the left. Both rooms lead through to the main living, dining and kitchen area, a light-filled space with garden views.

The kitchen features an electric cooktop, wall-oven and grill, dishwasher and large walk-in pantry.

The living/dining area includes agas logfire for cosy winters in addition to ducted heating and cooling throughout. Adouble set of doors opens out to asmall paved outdoor area.

The master bedroom is set to one side of the home

Beautifullypresented family home FORSALE

and includes an ensuite, walk-in robe and personal office or parents’ retreat.

At the other end of the home are the remaining three bedrooms with built-in robes, family bathroom, separate toilet and laundry.

Extra features include window plantation shutters, heated towel rails and 3kw solar panel system.

Outdoors there are beautiful established gardens surrounding the home. The large shed can store up to four vehicles or can be used as aworkshop.

Located ashort distance from the local primary school and post office, and only afew minutes’ drive to Castlemaine CBD, this immaculate family home has been lovingly cared for inside and out. Call today to arrange aprivateinspection.

Property: Spacious family home on corner allotment

Address: 50 Stephen Street,Campbells Creek

Price: $935,000

Agent: Keogh Real Estate,Castlemaine

Contact: 5472 1248

58 Elizabeth Street, Campbells Creek

Comfortable Home on Spacious Block

-Generous801sqm allotment

-Freshlypaintedthroughout

-Establishedgardens

-Sideaccess

-3 bedrooms, 1loungeroom,1 bathroom

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

-Onlya short5 minutedrivetoCastlemaine CBD

27 Martin Street, Castlemaine

LocationLocationLocation

-3 bedrooms, living/dining,lounge, 2bathrooms

-Quietlocation

-Ductedheating andcooling

-Large allotment

-Onlya 3minutedrivetoCastlemaine CBD

-Establishedgardens surrounding thehome

-Great condition

3 12 801sqm 3

Price $685,000

Gisborne

193 Short Road (OffMcGeorgeRd& Watson Rd)

“Equinirvana” (Horse Heaven)

4Ha- Approximately 10 Acres

An exceptional innercountrytreechangeand lifestyle property only 52 kmsor40minutes easy drivetoBolteBridge via the Calder andTullamarine freeways.

Features includestunning picturesque viewsfromanelevatedposition to MountMacedonand beyond by dayand thefairyland lights of Gisborne township by night, and averyprivately sited high quality7.6 starenergy rated(triple glazed) 10 year old4bedroom residence

Extensiveversatile infrastructure, thatcouldbeeasilyrepurposed, includes a15mx30m shed (suitablefor 10-15cars) withmezzanine floor,21mx40m indoorarena,12mx16m stable block,anOlympic sized outdoor arena, and extensivepost and rail fencing

Price$4.95m Termsofsale10% deposit balance 120/180 days

John Keating 0419 880 444

Classified DEADLINES

GREEN –Richard

The ‘Old Time Dancing at Kyneton’ team has lost avalued member and agreat friend with Dick’spassing We will allmisshis commitment, his caring and wonderful sense of humour

We send our sincere condolences to Enid and thefamilies

KN270714/L

GREEN

Richard (Dick)

2.12.1945 –23.3.2023

Vehicle Advertisers

It is with great sadness we feel upon the recent passing of Dick. Such awonderful, caring man and a pleasure to know.

From all your dance friends, past and present.

Lancefield and Kyneton Old Time Dance Groups

KN270711/J

QUARRELL

David William

The President, Committee and members of the Kyneton RSL Sub-Branch wish to express their deepest condolences to the family of David LEST WE FORGET

WILLIAMSON Mara

Lovedsister of Ida and Alan (Dec).

Sister in lawof Zillah (Dec). Lovedaunt of Jono and Leonie.

With her Jehova

KN270652/L

Deaths/Funerals

TERRY -John Richard 17.10.1925 –28.3.2023

Aged 97 years

Passedaway peacefully atElleryHouse

Husband to Doreen (dec. 2000).

Father and father-in-lawtoAnn, Frank andJohn. Grandpa to Jacinta, Belinda and Richard.

Thanksfor your love and sense of humour

Celebration of John’slife

Wednesday, April 5, 10.30 am

Mount Alexander Funerals 12 Campbell St, Castlemaine

William (Bill) McKellar

Passed away peacefully on the 17th February 2023 aged 85 years

Dearly loved husband of Clare, loving father of Richard, Allison and Jennifer

BAIN -Duncan

Annette,Steven, David and families wish to sincerely thank relatives and friends forall their love and supportfollowing the death of our Dad, Pa and Grandpa, Duncan Bain

Thanks to the staff at Thompson House and to Dr Dale fortheir care and concernfor Dad. Our heartfelt thanks to MountAlexander Funerals fortheir help and support over the past week. Please accept this as our personal expression of thanks.

KN270749/L

IMPORTANT NOTICE DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL!

The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful foranadvertiser to showany intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy,race, age,marital status,political or religious belief or activity,industrial activity,parental or carer status, physical features,disability,lawful sexual activity/ sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with aperson with oneofthe above characteristics,unless covered by an exception or granted an exemption under the Act. As we couldbe legally liable if we printanunlawful advertisement, we will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. Formore information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission. KN265461

Public Notices

KN270739/L

Much loved Grandfather of Madeline, Isabelle, Angus, Darcy and Hannah

With tears we saw you suffer, we watched you fade away, our hearts were slowly breaking, as you fought so hard to stay

We invite you to celebrate the final chapter in our ‘book of memories’ at the Morris Minor Garage, 36 Ford Road, Harcourt North on the 15th of April at 2 30pm

Castlemaine 5470 5951

EASTER

OldTime Dance

S Sat., April 8th at 8pm.

Wesley Hill Hall (on marketsite)

Pyrenees Hwy

Castlemaine

$10 per person

Supper provided.

All proceeds to SES

Castlemaine Taxis

Require full/part time drivers. Driver accreditation an advantageorwe can help youobtain one.Wewill provide training. Email: Castlemainetaxi@ gmail.com

Phone:0477147 732

Ph 5472 3569 decorativeiron.com.au

Come and join us foranight of networking along with our special guest

NOTICE TO ALL ADVERTISERS

Section29ofthe Fair Trading Act 1999 requires the inclusion of afullname and address (not PO BoxNumber) –inall advertisements for the supply of goods andservices.

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

KN265460

Full Time TruckDriver (HC) &Labourer

ACivil &Drainage companylocated in Romsey, Operating in the Macedon Ranges area.

We are seeking an all-roundexperienced TruckDriver(HC)& Labourer

Preferably aminimum of 2years’ experience, who canworkina Team Environment, is Reliable &Competent and has a Can Do Attitude! Availablefor immediate start.

To apply please email your resume and cover letter to brdex@bigpond.net.au

KN270628/L

Employment

Seeking CivilConstructions Teachers at Loddon Prison!

Bendigo Kangan Institute is looking for a Civil Construction Teacher to join its Corrections EducationTeam at Loddon Prison.

You must have:

• TAE40111 or TAE40116 Certificate IV in Training and Assessment

• Skill sets in Traffic Management, skid steer,elevatedworkplatform, forklift trainer and assessor andconstructioninduction an asset.

If you’re interested (orhaveany queries); send your resume to careers@kangan edu au, subject ‘Civil Construction Teacher –Loddon Prison’

NOTE: BKIreserves therighttowithdrawthisadvertisedpositionat any stage

DEMOLITION YARD

Open every dayover Easter 1000’sofitems forsale!

-Aluminium sliding window/door 2m x1800, $500.

-Baltic flooring circa 1890’s- 1930’s 2house lots available.

-Handmade bricks,solids,pavers, bluestones 100,000 available

-100 year old oregon/hardwood timber all lengths &sizes available

-Corrogated iron and Kliplockroofing 800sheets available

-16HWgable 1930’stimbertrusses 8m length x2mhigh, $660 each.

-31Tassieoak gable trusses,45 years old 5m lengths x1.3 high $230 each.

-20Radiata pine trusses,GC, 5m length x1.5mhigh, $200 each. Phone Karl 0422 564 878

BERMUDABASS 12FT ALUM VNOSE Fishing boat in EC.onnew Dunbier boat trailer 15Hp MercuryMariner O/B.New Bimini cover, 3swivel seats,marine ply floor &marine carpet.

&motor fitted with all weather covers,spare wheel, rod holders,anchor,safety equip

Z43490 -26.3.24. -Boat MJ763 -6.11.23.

Phone 0437 522 387

Town & District

GOLFresults

KYNETON

Scott Murphy was in sparkling form in Kyneton’s monthly medal event on Saturday.

The A-grader fired 77-10-67 to finish three shots clear of Tim Kirk 79-9-70.

Noel Alldis 88-17-71 was the B-grade winner with 88-1771 on acountback from Jesper Hensen 83-12-71, and Bob Bennett 93-20-73 wrapped up C-grade ahead of Paul Law 95-20-75.

NTPs went to Richard Partridge, Denise Murphy, David Moore and Tim Kirk (also super pin).

Grade winners in the Flag Day for the ladies were: A–Deidre Dawes 97-23-74; B–Joan Gibbs 98-25-73; C—Judy Aldred 104-30-74.

Nine holes –Judy Aldred 17 points, with Aldred, Bernadette Bogacki and Judy Quick the NTPs.

Wednesday stableford: Les Healy (14) from (Hepburn Springs) had 38 points to win from John Chandler (18) on 37. Gordon Stevens NTP.

NOTE: There’s atwo-person Ambrose for the Royal Children’s Appeal on Good Friday. Call captain David on 0438 865 586 to enter your team –ifyou don’t have one, David will arrange one.

LANCEFIELD

The men’s monthly medal event on Saturday was decided on acountback.

Consistent Barry Flentjar 89-21-68 as the winner, from Gary Dudderidge 77-9-68, with Stephen Draper next best with 91-20-70.

MOUNT MACEDON

Some excellent scores were returned in Saturday’s par event, with nearly half the field achieving their handicap or better.

Grade winners: A– David Watt (11) finished +4; B–Tony Littman (14) +6, and C–SeanBassett (25) +4.

NTPS went to Paul Borrows (3), Andrew Kicaid (2) and Ian Flannery.

Unrelenting rain played havoc with the intrepid Wednesday gentlemen who ventured out.

Ultimately only three sodden but stolid players completed their round, namely Tony Littman 37 points, Karl Pongravic 35 and Terry Penney 30 and about of pneumonia!

Congratulations to the scratch and handicap pennant teams in round 1, both winning 4-1 against respective opponents Romsey and Woodend.

ROMSEY

It was tough to play to your handicap on acoldand windy Saturday afternoon at Romsey.

Added incentive in the stableford event was to win a place among the eight qualifiers for the Algie Mitchell Shield.

Bob McLennan (14) was the day’s outright winner with 39 points, from Davey Kenney (14) on 37 and Luke Lyons (12) on 35.

Kenney led the qualifiers for the knockout quarter-finals. Lyons, Daniel Wright, Steve Wilkins, Mal Mottram, Mick Nicholls Jnr, Mitch Atlas and Andrew Laing are still in contention.

Romsey’s Darlene Baker scored 105-29-76 to win C-grade in the Jean Wallder Bowl at Seymour on Thursday.

The previous day Baker shot 89-18-71 to have the best score in the women’s running competition for the monthly medal, with Kath Jekabsons 111-39-72 and Jenny Hartley 94-21-73 next best. Harley was also best putter (30).

Romsey’s pennant teams did not fare as well as had been hoped in the opening pennant round, with Mick Squire the lone winner from 10 participants.

In scratch, Mount Macedon dRomsey 4-1, and Woodend dRomsey 5-0 in the handicap section.

TRENTHAM

Low marker Simon Ovenden fired an excellent 68-2-66 to take out the monthly medal and A-grade on Saturday.

Peter McBride led in the B-graders with 85-18-69, and Simon Ovenden made it afamilyaffair with 99-30-69 in C-grade.

Ladies stableford: Trish Mann had 37 points to edge out Vicki Cronan in A-grade, with Lorna Beaumont aclear B-gradewinner with 36 points.

WOODEND

Mighty Mick Keating continued his stellar form to clinch the monthly medal on Saturday.

Abig field turned out, and Keating blazed his way around the course to card 69-9-60.

Talented youngster Dane Thompson was runner-up with afine 85-25-63, and took out B-grade.

What astart to the pennant season!

Woodend’s division one side –the defending champions –began the new pennant season in blistering form.

A5-0 victory over the visiting Euroa side was areal confidence booster, and Danny Bellchambers was in peak form, stunning his opponent who was even on the card when the match finished.

Watts Trophy to Kyneton

Kyneton Croquet Club representatives travelled to Gisborne last week, to take on the Macedon Ranges Croquet Club in the biannual Watts Trophy Challenge. This competition has been running twice yearly for several years, and the trophy has rarely been out of Kyneton, who are the current trophy holders.

Eight players from each club played four doubles matches against the other club players, so it’s very much ateam event.

Kyneton took an early lead, winning all eight games in the first two rounds, but it was close –three of those were won by just one hoop (7 –6), and another four games were just 8– 5hoops

In rounds three and four, the top Macedon Ranges pairing of Elizabeth Payne and Penny Krstev fought back to take two wins off Kyneton, dominating one game to win 11 –2.There were twoother close 7–6losses for Macedon, but it wasn’t enough to keep the Kyneton team at bay.

The final result was awin to Kyneton again, this time 14 games won to two, for adominant 138 total hoops won versus Macedon’s 88 hoops

Impressive for Kyneton were Len Baker and Darryl Chivers, and Pat Fahy and John Giulieri (replaced by

Ruth Gallpen for two games); both pairings were undefeated over all four rounds.

After the outstanding afternoon tea provided by Macedon Ranges, aphoto was taken of the winning Kyneton Team (including Charlie, the team mascot Jack Russell), and the handmade wooden Watts Trophy was returned to Kyneton once again. Until next time

In other croquet news, all games in round three of the NDCA Pennant Competition have been completed, and at the halfway stage, Kyneton is looking very strong across the board.

In Division 1, the Kyneton Blue team of Damien Hadfield and Rick Jensen remain undefeated, although their round three win was only one hoop ahead of the Quarry Hill Rosellas (35 vs. 34 hoops).

In Division 2, the two Kyneton teams are equal first with two wins each, but Kyneton Black (Graham Smith and George Lund) leads by 103 hoops to Kyneton Red’s 93 hoops.

In Division 3, another Kyneton (Yellow) team (Pat Fahy and Judy Aldred) is undefeated, but are only one win and two hoops ahead of Macedon Ranges Mt. Towrong, so asingle loss could change the leaderboard in Macedon’s favour.

Changing lives with bicycles

Castlemaine Steiner School and Kindergarten joined the national Ride2School Day that took place on Friday March 24.

As well as being afantastic event for the students, the day raised funds for the international organisation, World Bicycle Relief.

The whole school was involved in the Ride2School event. Starting early Friday morning, 24 students and ahandful of parents met to ride 2.5km to school. Later, as awhole school event, students took on the challenge of decorating their bikes for the Bike Parade, peddling the orange juice bike, testing their skills on the obstacle course and riding the weird and wonderful bikes brought along by our bike expert guests ‘Paddy Toastie’ and ‘Rainbow Rider’.

Thirty two students from Grade 2to8 andmanykeen parents then rode the 9kmfrom school to the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens to finish this activity filled day.

CSSK Outdoor Education teacher and CycleSafe Mt Alexander spokeswoman Penny Gilbert organised the day, being afantastic supporter of this nation-wide event.

“Cycling to school, or anywhere, is such agreat activity for the whole family with many of our younger students and their parents joining us for the ride to school and after school tothe Botanical Gardens.” Penny said.

“Riding our bikes has so many benefits, be it for our health and wellbeing, reducing our reliance on cars and also the fantastic social aspect when we ride with others. We were happily surprised at just how many of our students signed up for the longer ride into Castlemaine.”

The event also provided an excellent opportunity to raise awareness for World Bicycle Relief, an international organisation providing great bikes to people around the world. They are “empowering individuals to access education, healthcare and economic opportunities through life-changing bicycles” as stated on their website.

Penny gave students examples of how bikes had changed lives across the globe with the support from World Bicycle Relief.

“Now that they have abike, they can selltheir farm produce to more people in the bigger towns abikeride away” she explained at aschool assembly.

For CSSK, the national Ride2School day has turned into an international fundraising day, benefiting those locally and abroad. Students and parents are already wanting to organise another ride soon and are looking forward tothe event next year.

Left to right are: Len Baker (with team mascot Charlie), Ruth Gallpen, Bill Caddaye,GrahamSmith (holding Watts Trophy), Darryl Chivers(rear), George Lund, David Wauchope,PatrickFahy. Absent: John Giulieri.

This young participant decorated their bike forthe special event.

PORTS WRAP SP

KBA results

The latest weekly results across all of Kyneton Basketball Association programs are brought to you by major sponsor Macedon Ranges Ag Machinery.

Domestic Monday night

U10s Mixed Semi Finals

Warriors 15 def Nets 11

(P Delios 4, CMathison 4)

Lakers 15 def Celtics 13 (H Richards 4, HMather 4, RRoberts 7) U12s Mixed Semi Finals

Heat 27 def Nets 18 (P Snelling 14, MMckee 9, HLiebelt 9)

Mavericks 28 def Clippers 22 (M Kome 10, BJeffrey 28)

Domestic Wednesday Night

U14 Boys Semi Finals

Suns 38 defWarriors 30 (N Boyer 14, HEdmondston)

Lakers forfeit Kyneton Tigers U12 Squad 20

Bendigo Domestic

U16 Boys Div 2Grand Final

Maiden Gully Giants 43 def Kyneton Tigers U16 Boys Gold (M Armstrong 8)

VJBL Friday Nights

U12 Boys: Tigers 35 defBroadmeadows 26 (H Liebelt 11)

U14 Boys

Bellarine 43 defTigers 40 (J Bartlett 27) U14 Girls

Westgate 38 def Tigers 20 (L Bradley 15)

Basketballersona high

Macedon Ranges Basketball Association is on ahigh following the recent Under 16 Boys’ Division 1Country Championship.

This was quickly followed by the inclusion of MRBA rising stars Finn McGinty, Sonny Maxwell, Samuel Haslett and Alex Gray in the Country Victoria U16s team to play in the National Championships in July. The Express highlighted this achievement in the March 21 edition.

The tournament to decide the U16 division 1championship was played at Bendigo.

MRBA junior co-ordinator Belinda Maxwell said for the little Macedon Ranges association to win the title against some of the powerhouses of Victorian basketball was atremendous feat.

Starting as the number one seeds, Macedon Ranges defied the odds and won six matches in arow, backing up from two years ago when they also won the division one U14s championship.

This means the age group is on a16-0 runs over the two events and once again is ranked the number one VIC country boys’ team in the state.

To say the Macedon Ranges U16s were impressive is not an understatement.

Every game the opposition came out firing, trying to dethrone the top seeds.

Day one saw three wins to top their pool, thereby qualifying for the play-offs.

On finals day they toppled the strong up and coming Traralgon team, then faced Bendigo in asemi-final.

Double at Ballarat

Winners are continuing to flow from the Hirsch Park training establishment at Tylden.

Last Tuesday, the Salanitri brothers saddled up two lightly raced galllopers for narrow wins at Ballarat.

Both three-year-old filly Carolina Sunrise and Sir Juggernaut gave connections and supporters plenty to think about, but each ended up making late runs and hitting the front in the shadows of the post.

Racing in the familiar Hirsch family colours, Carolina Sunrise started as a$4.6chanceinthe 0-64 Handicap over 1400m.

Dean Holland bided his time and made awell timed run to get up in the last couple of strides to edge out Where’s Poppy by 0.1 lengths.

Sir Juggernaut was a$3.20 favourite with Jarrod Fry in the saddle in the 1100m BM64 event over 1000m.

Fry also bided his time and Sir Juggernaut finished strongly to win narrowly from Cadbool.

Salanitri Racing looks certain to continue to churn out more winners from the Tylden complex.

For Carolina Sunrise and Sir Juggernaut, it was their second race victories.

In averyhard-fought contest Macedon Ranges lost the lead for the first time all tournament, but rallied in the last five minutes to eliminate Bendigo.

Another big test in the grand final, this time against Ballarat.

With plenty of support from the sidelines, Macedon Ranges led throughout for a46-40 victory.

All 10 players showed flashes of brilliance over the six matches, and the grand final was highlighted by an unstoppable performance by Alex Gray.

SOON BE 40 YEARS UP

The MRBA began in1985, with games initially played at Tony Clarke Reserve, Macedon.

Now Buffalo Stadium in Woodend is the mainvenue.

The all-inclusive association serves the entire Macedon Ranges.

The MRBA runs fun-orientated Aussie Hoops, skills development sessions for U10s boys andgirls, intermediate age groups, all-abilities training and modified games, amixed competition, and open women’s and men’s competitions.

Basketball is regarded as atremendous socialactivity as well.

The MRBA strives to provideopportunities forpersonal growth anddevelopment of youth athletes, also reinforcing positive influences, self-confidence, self-esteem and theability to excel on and offthe court

As an exercise, basketball is agreat cross-training activity.

U16 Boys Broadmeadows 36 def Tigers 35 (J Turner 10, CEve 10)

U18 Boys

Tigers 37 def Whittlesea 35 (B Grech 10) U18 Girls

McKinnon 42 def Tigers 34 (INicholson)

U20 Boys

Dimond Valley 61 Def Tigers 51 (LPeavey 17,J Sanders-Henshall 11)

Registrations

Registrations are now open forthe winter domestic competitions across all ages. Registration link: www.playhq.com/ besketball-victoria/register/4915fe

Thanks to all our sponsors: Macedon Ranges Ag Machinery Hendersons the Gas People

The Milko Evetrans

Young Engineer Kyneton Cubs

Kyneton Cubs are excited to announce their new sponsor Bolton Motorcycles Kyneton

Registration for Kyneton Cubs term 2 are now open.

Registration link: https://www.playhq. com/basketball-victoria/register/735976

Carolina Sunrise ridden by Dean Holland wins the Porter Plant 0-64 Handicap at Ballarat

Photo: Pat Scala/Racing Photos

U16CountryChampions:Backrow –fromleft– coachDylan Cole,Samuel Haslett, Ben Taylor,RubenHewitt, Jesse Reid (emerg.), Ben Rankin, Finn McGinty,team managerShan Garrahan, assistant coach Adam Tarr.Front row–AlexGray, SonnyMaxwell, Noah Hanegraaf,Christian Beecroft, RhysGarrahan.

150yearsofTigers’ tales

Bill West

Lancefield Mechanics Institute was packed on Saturday night to mark the 150 years of the town’s football club.

The highs –including 22 premierships –and lows were the subject of celebration and possibly some embellishment as the 2023 year is averyspecial one in the Tigers’ history.

Eagerly awaited is the unveiling of an in-depth history book on the club, complete with photographs and previously unpublished information. This will take place after the Lancefield versus Romsey match on Saturday, May 27.

The big reunion on Saturday night was arealcrowd pleaser, reminiscent of multitudes of on-field matches where the Tigers’ players and supporters were jovial on and off the field. Many old acquaintances were renewed, and stories shared across the board. Col Richmond, now aCastlemaine resident, was the only Lancefield premiership player present from the 1952 side that defeated Kilmore 17.18 to 15.7.

The tremendous backing received from the Lancefield and Romsey Community Bank branches was acknowledged, with bank board member Rob Bryant stating the bank looks forward to continuing support for the club “for many more years”.

Support from various other sponsors and the people of Lancefield was also acknowledged, with orders for the history book still flowing in.

Russell Pattinson and Denis Graham, who has been instrumental in the history book happening, shared as the compere duties for much of the evening.

Graham outlined the remarkable story of Lancefield farmer/soldier Ike Johnston, aclub captain and four times premiership player, who also played with several Melbourne-based clubs.

The clock in the hall, which is almost 100 years old, was donated by Ike Johnston after the 1924 premiership. Glenice Rainey, wife of long-time club and Riddell League president and tribunal member Noel Rainey who died last year, said he had been “so passionate about footy.”

The Tigers had even fielded awomen’s football team to play Romsey at one stage. Ray ‘Sammy’ Russell was one of Lancefield greatest players, winning the 1952 Bowen Medal, and his brother Brian and Pauline spoke about their recollections.

Barry and Wally Connors, Bern Shannon, Ian Mustey and Frank Garvey answered questions about the 1958 season and final win against apowerful Sunbury combination. Keith and Bern Shannon both won Bowen Medals in 1958 and 1959, and the latter said as ateenager he had learnt more in one match playing on Woodend’s star centreman Jimmy Godden than he had in an entire career.

The audience heard stories about grand finals they expected to win, and didn’t, and also about someofthe Tigers’ finest finals victories when they were underdogs. There was general agreement that 1966 captain-coach Kevin O’Brien had been aremarkable and inspiring match winner, with the Tigers beating Romsey that year.

Peter Shannon took over the interviewing role as the night progressed, and the longevity of Ray ‘Blue’ Malone and Neil ‘Mort’ Hazlett was elaborated on. The Tigers went for 29 years without aflag at one stage.

Then the effusive Marty Lakey, abrilliant leader who led the 1995 and 1996 premiership sides, injected some humour into the conversation when he elaborated how he had come to be recruited by the Tigers and how some of the premiership celebrations had been standouts. Former president Angelic Mott explained how the Tigers had awinning A-grade netball side back in 2004.

The audience heard from successful and much travelled premiership coach Simon Jorgensen who led the Tigers to victory against hot favourite Riddell.

Simon Choate, who has avery illustrious record with the Tigers, and Tom Waters, twice an All-Australian player and dual Bowen Medal winner and premiership player, also expanded on their experiences.

Waters is captaining the Tigers this season and still has much to offer the club.

Agroup of dedicated Lancefield ladies supplied food requirements throughout the evening.

Club president Paul Rix commended all for attending the function, and said it hopefully serves as aplatform for success going forward. He thanked the organising committee, various helpers and supporters. More social activities are planned this season. Having an Under 19s football side is expected to help, and additional recruits will be very welcome.

Good Fridaybonanza

Ahuge crowd is expected at Gilbert Gordon Oval in Woodend on Good Friday for an extravaganza of football and netball.

The one-off Riddell League matches has 2022 football premiers Riddell playing afired up Hawks, with Woodend-Hesket’s A-grade netballers keen to repeat their 2022 form when they were runners-up. Matches are from 10am onwards.

Riddell’s season launch took place on Sunday afternoon, and the Hawks will hold their launch after the main football match concludes on Good Friday. Hawks’ selectors will name their teams

Horse show set to return

The Castlemaine and District Agricultural Society’s Clydesdale Foal, Filly and Mare Show will return to Castlemaine’s Camp Reserve on Sunday April 16.

This will be combined with its Miniature Horse, Pony and Shetlands Feature Show.

Castlemaine and District Agricultural Society secretary Deb Hamilton said the society will celebrate its 169th anniversary this year and is thrilled to see its April event return following covid and the flooding of the grounds.

“Our last Agricultural Show was in 2019 and managed to have our last April Feature Show in 2021. We are extremely excited to be preparing for its return this April,” Deb said.

There will be four rings this year. One is the muchloved Pure bred Clydesdales, the true Gentle Giants of the horse world. Ranging from foals, yearlings, two

year olds, three year olds and over, and over four years. Long reining and ridden.

Ring Two will be the Miniature Horses, Ponies, small horses and Shetlands. Adelight for children to see.

Rind Three is part bred Clydesdales and part bred Gypsy Cobbs, also pure Gypsy Cobbs.

Ring Four will be the Harness Sections for small horses, ponies as well for the larger trades turnouts for big horses.

Gate admission is $5 Adults, Children Under 16 free. Judging starts from 10am Refreshments and food will be available and supplied by Castlemaine Lions Club.

All enquires about the show can be directed to secretary Deb Hamilton 0413 339 058 or email hamiltondebbie28@yahoo.com.au

tomorrow (Wednesday) evening.

The first RDFNL matches took play in a one-off fixture on Saturday, with Western Rams hosting Melton Centrals.

Former Collingwood star Dane Swan was among the best for Western Rams in aone-off celebrity appearance.

Senior football –MeltonCentrals 11.6 d Western Rams 2.2; Reserves –Centrals 9.6 d Rams 5.3.

A-grade netball –Centrals 45 dRams 43; B–Rams 32 dCentrals 31, C–Rams 39 dCentrals 14; 19&U –Rams 36 dCentrals 25.

Back to 1888: Russell Pattinson holds a framed 1888 Lancefield guernsey in mauve and blue colours, including premiership players’ names It was sold for $1650

Over 1000 games and innumerable stories between them! Interviewer Peter Shannon with twoLancefield Legends –Ray ‘Blue’ Malone and Neil ‘Mort’ Haslett (of 600 games fame). Theymay have missed out on premiership glorybut theyepitomise the heartand soul of Tigerland.

PORTS WRAP SP

Awardwinners

Five cricketershaveeach claimed two of thethree topindividual awards in their respective Gisborne District CricketAssociation grades for 2022-2023.

They areJarryd Vernon (Gisborne), Hayden Ingleton (Kyneton), Brandon Nicholls(Hanging Rock), JustinMurphy (Malmsbury),and Kim Bessell(Darley).

McIntyre Cup: Batting –Jarryd Vernon 751runs@93.88; Bowling –Mick Allen (Gisborne) 23 wickets @10.43; Aggregate –Jarryd Vernon1041.

JohnstoneShield: Hayden Ingleton (Kyneton) 373 @74.6; Nick Tunzi (Kyneton) 21 @10.19; Ingleton 673.

JensenShield: Brandon Nichols (Hanging Rock) 703 @100.43; Nicholas Maxwell 18 @9.28; Nicholls 758

Division 1: Vijay Chawla (Aintree) 289 @72.25; BrentProctor (Kilmore) 20 @ 9.95;ParamvirGrewal(Aintree) 602.

Division 2: Justin Murphy(Malmsbury)531 @88.5; George Papadopoulos (Kyneton) 18 @7.78; Justin Murphy 536.

Division3:MatthewMurphey (Melton Centrals) 519 @173;Travis Stark (Eynesbury) 22 @10.05; Murphey 649.

Club North: DaleTaverna (Macedon) 313 @156.5; James Farrell(Wallan) 22 @9.77; Stephen Gray (Macedon) 498.

SullivanMedal goes to Vernon

As widely anticipated, Gisborne captain Jarryd Vernon has won the highest individual award in McIntyre Cup cricket for season 2022-2023.

The talented 28-year-old allrounder received 20 votes to win the Sullivan Medal by seven votes from team-mate and former medal winner Mick Allen, who won the bowling award.

The medal count was conducted at the Gisborne District Cricket Association’s well attended annual presentation night held at Club Sunbury (Sunbury Bowling Club) last Wednesday evening.

Vernon led by example on the field, scoring 751 runs at an average of 93.88, and collecting more than 20 wickets as well.

He blitzed the aggregate award for the top grade with amassive 1041 points, easily the highest across all grades.

Vernon’s free scoring batting approach with an array of shots was sufficient to make him the prized wicket for opposition sides playing Gisborne.

He had been runner-up for the top award on two previous occasions.

Presenting the medal, legendary GDCA life member and treasurer (for 43 years) Kevin Sullivan commended Vernon on his outstanding season, and presented the medal.

Vernon said he would have loved to be leading his side in the grand final, but the Dragons had put in their one bad match at the wrong time in the semi-final against premiership winner Romsey.

He pledged to be back again with Gisborne next season, aiming to achieve the ultimate reward.

Leading votes: Jarryd Vernon 20, Mick Allen 13, Ben Way (Romsey) 12, Keiran Atkin (Wallan), Upul Fernando (Sunbury United) and Marcus Stewart (Woodend) all 11.

GDCA president Richard Bayly congratulated all the premier-

ship sides and the individual trophy winners.

He said the season had culminated in several very close finishes, the Romsey versus Sunbury United grand final had been “a wonderful game”, and the Jensen Shield final had been areal cliffhanger with undefeated Hanging Rock coming from ashaky position toedge out Rupertswood.

Bayly and GDCA secretary Simon Overden expressed the hope the women’s competition would continue to expand next season, with more clubs likely to field teams.

BESSELL STARS

Inaugural Most Valuable Player in the women’s league was Darley star Kim Bessell, who wasbestafield in sevenmatches and scored 349 runs while being dismissed just once.

Bessell vowed to be back playing for Darley next season.

Leading votes: Kim Bessell 21, Brooke Jeffrey (Lancefield Black) 9,Sarah Bamford (BacchusMarsh) 8, Taylah Logie (Kilmore), Hannah Smajila (Macedon) and Srishti (Aintree) all 7.

WAY REFLECTS

Romsey Cricket Club won the annual ‘Spirit of Cricket’ award, on top of its McIntyre Cup flag and having its other senior sides in grand finals.

Club coach Ben Way briefly reflected on Romsey’s gradual rise to prominence, tracing it back to when Chris Burkett first took on coaching the Redbacks.

Way said players often shied off coming toaclub which is battling, and Romsey had encouraged young players to aim high and progress from junior ranks.

The Redbacks’ teams now have players who love playing together, and want to be successful

After the McIntyre Cup grand final win over Sunbury United, Way vowed Romsey would be back as astrong McIntyre Cup contender again next season.

The MAIN Game –a game forall

Castlemaine community radio station MainFM is once again gearing up to hold their ‘award-winning’ annual footy match fundraiser the MAIN Game at the historic Camp Reserve on the King’s Birthday long weekend, Sunday June 11.

The MAIN Game is acommunity engagement and major fundraising initiative for local radio station, 94.9 MainFM.

The event revolves around the most entertaining Aussie Rules footy match between the Radio Galahs (mostly MainFM presenters) and the Rockatoos (mostly musicians) but anyone can register to play. It’s open to all genders, mixed ages and those of mixed abilities and is agreat waytoconnect with new people, get fit and have some fun.

AKick to Kick and Information Session is coming up on Sunday April 16 if you’d like to learn more. The Kick to Kick will take place at the Sunken Oval from 3pm-4pm in Walker Street, Castlemaine, followed by an Information Session across the road at the Taproom from 4pm-5pm. You can register at the Information Session or via the MainFM website at mainfm.net. Registrations for the 2023 event close April 19.

Club South:MatthewAnderson (Sunbury United) 283@ 283;Geoff furnell (United) 21 @2.57; Gavin Boon (Melton) 600

Women: KimBessell (Darley) 349@ 349; TameeekaMorrissey (Darley) 10 @ 9.0.Bessell 424.

GDCA teams of the year

Ahighlight of Gisborne District Cricket Association’s presentation night was the announcement of the Teams of the Year for the men’s and women’s competitions.

Jarryd Vernon (Gisborne) and Kim Bessell (Darley) arethe respective captains for the 2022-2023 sides, listed in batting order:

MEN’S TEAM

Marcus Stewart (Woodend)

Kieran Atkin (Wallan).

Jarryd Vernon (Gisborne).

Ben Way (Romsey).

James Lidgett (Bacchus Marsh).

Mick Allen (Gisborne).

MIlinda Sepalal (Diggers/Bulla).

Senura Perera ((Sunbury United.

Gayan Welikalage (Diggers/Bulla).

Rajitha Mendis (Sunbury United.

Andrew Pizaro (Rupertswood).

WOMEN’S TEAM

Brooke Jeffrey (Lancefield).

Srishti Batra (Aintree).

Kim Bessell (Darley).

Nat Jeffrey (Lancefield).

Carolyn Cusack (Lancefield).

Bethany Reece (Lancefield).

Taylah Logie (Kilmore).

Charli Large(Macedon).

Tameeka Morrissey (Darley).

Jasmine Kilmartin (Darley).

Lola Coppin (Macedon.

Amber Smajila (Macedon).

Work on greens

Woodend Bowling Club expects to have two brand new greens in the not too distant future.

Severe flooding last October wrecked the club’s synthetic green, and work on replacing it is expected to begin later this month, when the replacement surface arrives.

The grass green was also badly affected when fast flowing water washed away all of the improvement work carried out earlier.

The club now intends to install anew all-grass surface.

Work on this is expected to follow the installation of the new synthetic surface.

Local radio presentersand musicians are gearing up forThe MAIN Game fundraiser and invite locals to pull on the boots and join the fun.

Bill West

Worthy winner: Gisborne’sJarrydVernon receives themedal from Kevin Sullivan.

Women’sMVP: Kim Bessell with an arrayoftrophies.

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