Midland Express Tuesday 6 December 2022

Riddells Creek residents challenging the density of a residential development say the rural identity of their town is not for sale.

The developer-led precinct structure plan includes the development of 131.8 hectares north of Amess Road identified for future growth.

Residents say changes to the plan increase the development beyond the 1290 lots with an average size of 476 square metres proposed in 2019.

Objectors are fighting for less density, road safety, planned infrastructure and to be heard on planning that will reshape the town.

"They are not the only issues here but they are what galvanise the community," Riddells Creek resident Robert McConville told the Express Robert McConville, Ross Colliver and Simon Were are

leading apetition that launched last week and has already gained 400 signatures.

Akey point calls for rejection of lot sizes below 800 square metres, and to set amaximum of no more than nine lots per buildable hectare.

"We want the rural aesthetic to be at the forefront. Cutting up residential blocks like this is turning our nice rural haven into some form of chaotic urbanisation," Mr McConville said.

"We don't want it to be aconglomerate of tiny blocks on the train line for commuters. It's the Macedon Ranges –we've got some of the best landscapes and valuable environmental assets in the region.

"The town's not ready for it and, aside from that, neither are the people. We're not against development but rural identity of the town is not for sale."

The petition also seeks vehicle and pedestrian movement to be apriority, as well as acommitment to

services and infrastructure.

"I don't thinkthe town has the infrastructure to support this kind of growth or the capability to build it," Mr Were said.

"People move to Riddells Creek to be in arural town not to be living in the next Sunbury, Melton, Rockbank or Craigieburn."

Mr Colliver said the Macedon Ranges community still had the ability to influence the outcome of the proposal.

"We understand that growth will occur but we do not want housing lots to be small and jammed together," he said.

"This needs to be thought through. There is no proper vision for the town."

The petition is still available online and at locations around the community to signincluding Riddells Creek Neighbourhood House. It is expected to be presented to the council in early2023. Sign the petition at: change.org

Amy Hume

Riddells Creek residents Ross Colliver,RobertMcConville and Simon Were are fighting to keep the identity of their town.

Forest expert presents

Many of us are deeply concerned about the impact of indiscriminate logging, wildfires and flooding to our native forests and woodlands, especially considering the risk from accelerating climate change.

Healthy forests are essential to the ecological health of the planet.

This subject will be explored at the next Castlemaine meeting of Central Victoria ACF, the local Australian Conservation Foundation community group.

The group will welcome Professor David Lindenmayer AO via Zoom to speak on native forest ecology: its unique beauty and its vulnerability to climate change, wildfires and destructive forestry activity.

Professor Lindenmayer is aworld-leading expert in forest conservation. He will speak about forest ecology and climate change and the health and future of our native forests.

The meeting will be held at the New Northern Arts Hotel in Castlemaine on Monday December 12 from 6pm.

The group anticipates a stimulating presentation followed by aQ&A discussion.

Drinks will be available for purchase, however seating is limited so RSVP is essential.

Email: centralvictoriaacf@ gmail.com

Excitement builds forCSF 2023

The 2023 Castlemaine State Festival is just around the corner and the Express caught up with festival director, Glyn Roberts, to discuss what audiences can expect at the 24th instalment of Australia’s longest running regional arts festival.

The Midland Express and Castlemaine Mail are proud to be media partners of the festival once again in 2023 and our readers will find the full festival program in the Express on January 24, 2023.

Glyn said the program for the highly anticipated event had now been finalised and festival goers could once again expect adiverse offering with something for the whole family –from classical music to uplifting pop, live performances and conversations, through to visual arts.

The festival opening will be held under amassive big top on the Western Reserve on the evening of Friday March 24.

The big top will be the beating heart of the festival, hosting live music every night of the 17-day event.

"Our free opening night celebration will feature live music by 1990s pop band, Frente!, who will be celebrating the 30th anniversary of their iconic debut EP Marvin the Album. The opening is proudly supported by the federal government," Glyn said.

Community members will need to register for the free event.

"The festival will once again

coincide with part of the school holidays and Easter, which worked extremely well in 2021, with many visitors already seeing Castlemaine as areal destination and looking for experiences while they are here," Glyn said.

"We will also feature aclassical and delicate music program at the Castlemaine Town Hall something that has always been a strong focus of our festival.

"The festival is also excited to once again partner with Northern Books to present Dialogues at The Goods Shed. In the other half of The Goods Shed we will also have performances and visual arts.

"The Open Studios will again be ahuge highlight with Michael Wolfe coordinating this and local studios registered already back to pre-COVID numbers. We will also be featuring acurated exhibition featuring aselection of works by Open Studio artists at the Market Building throughout the festival.

"There will be itinerant art throughout the township and alive artwalking tour, which will commence at a'mustering point' at the Botanical Gardens beforeexploring the town."

To coincide with the festival, there will also be two new exhibitions unveiled at Castlemaine Art Museum, one featuring alocal artist and one aMelbourne-based artist with an immersive performance element.

CSF is also working with Mount Alexander Shire Council and Castlemaine Fringe to reactivate Mechanics Lane and Frederick

Street to coincide with Fringe performances at the Phee Broadway Theatre.

The Fringe will be taking over the big top on acouple of nights following festival programming to host after parties featuring local DJs.

In addition to the local program, the festival will feature three performances at Bendigo's Capital Theatre.

"There are also anumber of events happening in Bendigo, which will coincide with the festival, including performances by the Melbourne Opera, so festival go-

ers will have plenty of reasons to explore the local and wider region over the 17-day event," Glyn said.

The 2023 Castlemaine State Festival program will be officially launched with apublicevent at The Goods Shed on Saturday January 28. Thewebsite and ticket sales will go live on the same date

In the lead up to the festival, tickets willbe available online or from the box office atThe Goods Shed. Adedicated Box Office will also pop up at The Western Oval closer to the event, which willrun from March 24 to April 9,2023.

Lisa Dennis

Castlemaine State Festival director,GlynRoberts, is looking forward to presenting his thirdfestival in 2023.

No date for Calder reopening

Driverfrustrationismounting over ongoing Calder Freeway lane closures for roadworks that have not been completed.

Thefreeway betweenKyneton and Mount Macedon was underrestrictions for four monthsfromNovember last year before being resealed.

Theresealedsection subsequently failedand is part of about 10 kilometres of the freeway nowreducedtoasingle lanewith thespeed limitslashed to a crawl

"It's been like that for months and there's neveranyone working on the roadwhen you drivethrough there,"one frequentfreeway user toldthe Express ADepartmentofTransportspokesperson advisedthat delivery timeframes for the workstobecompleted were yet to be

determined.

“We understand theimportanceof reopening these sectionsofthe Calder Freeway andwe’re workingwith our con tractors to finalise delivery timelinesfor repair works,” thespokesperson said.

Speaking on commercial radio (3AW), aDoT spokesperson admittedthat that duetocosts, countryroads werenot builtto“Melbournestandards” andwere “really just agravel road base witha bitu menspray-seal”.

Roadresiliency inquiry launched

The HouseofRepresentatives StandingCommitteeonRegional Development, Infrastructure and Transport last week launched an inquiryintothe implications of severe weatherevents on thenational regional road network.

Blue-green algae warning

Recent flooding combined with warmer weather conditions has produced favourable conditions for blue-green algae to thrive in farm water supplies and standing floodwater, DEWLP has warned.

Senior veterinary officer Dianne Phillips said livestock owners needed to remain alert as ingestion of blue-green algae could result in the poisoning of livestock.

“As there is no specific treatment for blue-green algae poisoning, producers should check standing bodies of water and farm water supplies daily for blooms, as this remains the most effective way of preventing stock deaths," Dr Phillips said.

“Blue-green algal blooms typically appear as surface scum that looks like asus pension of green paint, often with an earthy smell. However, the colour may range from pale green to dark brown."

Deaths can occur when stock drink toxins produced by the blue-green algae, often when it is concentrated on the down-wind

side of awater supply and has formed a dense surface scum.

Animals that have consumed blue-green algal toxin may appear ill very rapidly, develop astaggering gait, collapse, begin to convulse and die –typically within 24 hours –depending on the toxicity of the bloom and the concentration of the toxin.

Those that don’t die immediately, often suffer from severe liver damage. This may lead to the development of jaundice (the yellows) or photosensitisation over the next few days. Livestock that recover from these ailments often suffer from chronic ill-thrift.

If asuspicious bloom is noticed, the water supply should be isolated as quickly as possible, and asafe alternate water supply provided.

Contaminated water should not be used to irrigate vegetables and fruit or come in contact with plants being grown for food, particularly fruit and vegetables that are mostly eaten raw.

Chair of thecommittee, Luke Gosling MP, said the inquiry would lookatroad engineeringand construction standards to strengthen road resiliencyagainst natural disasters, including thecritical role of climatechangetrendsand data to inform infrastructurestandards

"Thecommitteeisconcerned about theincreasingdeterioration of the nation’s road network,particularly in regional, rural andremote areas,"Mr Gosling said.

"Theextremeflooding events and other natural disasters across thenation have impacted many Australians,and the committee is seeking to understand how road planning andconstruction may be improved to enhanceroad climateresiliencyand support ourcommunities."

About 10 kilometres of the Calder Freewaybetween Kyneton and Mount Macedon has been reduced to asingle lane with the speed limit slashed to acrawl. Photo: Brian Wilson, ietsystems.com.au

Romseycarols

Carols by Candlelight is coming to the Romsey Skate Park.

The Safe Spaces Performances Choir will be performing as well as several other local artists from 6.30pm on Saturday December 10.

recorded

More than 50,000 megalitres of water flowed in to Coliban Water storages during October, the highest inflows ever received for the month of October.

Executive general manager of strategy, Jarrah O’Shea, said levels in Coliban Water’s storages near Kyneton, as well as the Coliban share of Lake Eppalock, were at more than 100 per cent.

“La Nina conditions continue to impact our region, positively by providing us with security of supply, and negatively by causing flooding in parts of our region and contributing to challenges in our sewer network," Mr O’Shea said.

“Spring rainfall at Malmsbury Reser-

voir was 486mm, which is more than 2.5 times greater than the average for spring rainfall, resulting in almost 97 gigalitres of inflow to our reservoirs on the Coliban River.

“This inflow is more than 6.5 times the median spring inflow. We are holding 5000 megalitres more in storage than we were for the same time last year.”

Ongoing wet conditions have caused significant impact across the region, with many towns remaining flooded and on alert, while in others the recovery process has begun. While there is strong water availability, the water quality is poor in many parts of the region as aresult of

flooding and CW's treatment plant operations teams are working to manage this.

Coliban Water teams continue to work through the impacts to sewer and water services throughout the region.

“Our Incident Team has been working around the clock since the beginning of October, ensuring that our sewer and water networks are repaired, cleaned and fully operational,” Mr O’Shea said.

“Our intention is to build back better, and where feasible and cost-effective, to ensure climate resilience and better outcomes for our communities. Our teams are investigating what this means for each town."

Drugs warrant at Kyneton

Detectives from the Central Victoria Response Unit executed aDrugs Warrant at an address in Begg Street, Kyneton, last Tuesday. Police located anumber of items, however, the investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone with information in relation to the incident is urged to contact the Bendigo Police Station on 5448 1300 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Coliban Waterstorageshavereceived the highest inflows ever received forthe month ofOctober

CAMCommissions CAM Commissssions

Afundraiser on Friday will mark the first crucial step for Castlemaine Art Museum's board as it works to raise much-needed funds to bridge the gallery's funding shortfall and ensure it is asuccessful going concern from June 2023.

CAM invites the community to celebrate the inaugural CAM Commissions launch event this Friday.

The fundraiser follows on from CAM's successful AGM on November 24, which saw the appointment of three enthusiastic and skilled new board members who will work with longstanding members to build on the achievements of 'CAM Renewal'.

The CAM Commissions are anew series of unique, limited-edition artworks –this year focusing on CAM's façade created by outstanding local artists and available for sale.

CAM director Naomi Cass said they had commissioned works by three remarkable local artists with national reputations After the Storm by Zoe Amor, Love &Fear by David Frazer and To the Women Founders of CAM by Melinda Harper –tounveil at Friday's free event.

Fifty limited-edition prints of each com-

missioned piece are now available for sale with renowned local printer Ian Hill printing works by Zoe and Melinda and David Frazer handprinting his works.

This is awonderful chance to purchase aworkbyatalented local artist and show your support for the beloved gallery.

The CAM Commissions are for sale on the evening and online.

"We also have terrific art experiences being auctioned thanks to local artists Clayton Tremlett, Catherine Pilgrim, Julie Millowick and John Wolseley," Ms Cass said.

In addition to the CAM Commissions (ranging from $200 –$450) theboard has also launched asecond initiative the '100 for $1000' campaign, which is tax deductible.

All funds raised will provide crucial funding toward CAM's operations, programming and community engagement –enabling local and national exhibitions, artist commissions, inviting and accessible programs, and care for the collection.

Join CAM for an evening of celebration at 6pm this Friday December9 where these limited edition works will be available for purchase, alongside exceptional art experiences. Drinks and light refreshments provided.

Lisa Dennis

Zoe Amor is pictured with her commissioned work ‘After the Storm’ outside the iconic CAM façade

Restaurant faces criminalcharges

AMacedon restaurant has had atotal of 94 criminal charges filed against it in the Magistrates Court of Victoria.

The charges are an Australian first under Victorian wage theft laws.

Wage Inspectorate Victoria filed the charges against Rehmat &Mehar Pty Ltd –trading as The Macedon Lounge –and its officer. It is alleged that between July and November 2021, the company and its officer breached wage theft laws by dishonestly withholding more than $7000 in employee entitlements, including wages, penalty rates and superannuation, in relation to four young former staff members.

Rehmat &Mehar Pty Ltd and its officer each face 47 charges.

The matter has been listed for mention in the Broadmeadows Magistrates Court on February 21, 2023.

On July 1last year, it became acrime for an employer in Victoria to dishonestly underpay employees or withhold their entitlements.

These crimes are punishable by up to 10 years’ jail for an individual or afine of more than $1.1 million for companies.

Wage theft offences involve deliberate and dishonest conduct. Honest mistakes made by employers who exercise due diligence in paying wages and entitlements are not considered wage theft.

An echidna was rescued from aprickly situation in Hutton Street, Kyneton, last Tuesday.

The echidna was found wandering the car park between the Macedon Ranges Shire Council offices and court and the nearby busy roadway.

MRSC director of planning and environment, Rebecca Stockfeld, said council staff acted quickly help the echidna to safety.

"There were concerns the echidna could be hit by acar due to the area being busy at the time," she said.

"Council's local laws officers managed traffic so the echidna could cross safely, however, it wandered towards an open

storm drain and eventually curled itself up.

"Cat cage doors and towels were used to block the echidna’s access to the drains.

"Officers were then able to pick up the echidna and place it safely into aplastic carrier using thick leather gloves and a towel."

The officers contacted Wildlife Victoria rescuers who provided advice about safely releasing the echidna after it was contained.

Later in the day, once court closed and traffic had cleared, the echidna was safely released into agrassed area near the car park.

"This was agreat outcome and Icommend the quick thinking of council officers to ensure the safety of the echidna and the public," Ms Stockfeld said.

"Due to the warm weather and being post-breeding season, there may be more echidnas on the move. Residents are advised that if they see any wandering, echidnas should not be moved from the immediate area as aburrow and possibly young may be nearby."

Wildlife emergencies can be reported to Wildlife Victoria on (03) 8400 7300, 24 hours aday, seven days aweek.

Fact sheets and information about echidnas and other wildlife are available at: wildlifevictoria.org.au

De Bortoli has two great releases for Xmas. At $14.99 they represent exceptional value for money when celebrating this festive season. BLUE PINOT GRIS: An outstanding example of Pinot Gris made with grapes from the best growing region in Australian, Victoria’s King Valley Citrus, apple and pear aromas dominate with summer fruit flavours filling the palate The finish is crisp and dry, yet delicate and balanced TI AMO FIANO: A Southern Italian grape variety gaining popularity in Australia because of its wonderful flavours The nose is all pears and citrus yet the palate is textural and nutty due to partial cask fermentation with notes of citrus, pear and apricot Winner of 1Silver and 2 Gold medals to date

Macedon Ranges Shire Council’sLocal Laws officersDanielMeikle and Marcus Jones helped rescue an echidna headed forastorm drain.

Come to thecircus!

Excitement

Castlemaine Circus general manager Kirsty Sutherland said the whole family would be entertained and amazed by their circus trainers, teenage troupes and special guests as they performed acrobatics, aerial acts, foot juggling, clowning, contortion and more.

"The event will be hosted by the colourful carnie MC Madeline Hudson and there will be live Balkan / Latin music by the Kyneton Street Band," Kirsty said.

The 2pm show will also include performances by Castlemaine Circus trainers, Nichola Hall, Caz Walsh and Nina Robertson, with special guests Erika Hansson, Cassia Jamieson and Ellie Hanuska the Contortionist.

"Castlemaine Circus will also proudly present acts by our most advanced young students," Kirsty said.

"Aerial Teen Troupers Rita Fortune, delighting you with acomedic flower act on aerial hoop, and Kaeleb Glinski in aspectacular performance on aerial straps,.

"The newly created Circus Troupe will also deliver ahigh energy, impressive comedic mini tramp act.

"Ticket prices are very affordable so bring the whole family."

Entry is just $13 adults /$6kids/freeunder 2. Bookings can be made at www.trybooking.com/ CDZZM

is building for the annual Castlemaine Circus Show to be held at The Goods Shed in Kennedy Street this Sunday December 11.

Castlemaine Circus teaches 350 local students each week in circus, the aerial arts and parkour and the annual showcase is awonderful opportunity for the community to see the talented local trainers and some of the wonderful local students in action!

Mount Alexander Shire Council Events Grant program has supported this event.

Kaeleb Glinski, pictured at the May2022 performance, will feature againthis Sunday. Photo: Leonie VanEyk

Campaigner to speak

Former Tasmanian Australian of the Year, Rodney Croome, is coming to Kyneton this month as guest speaker at the final Birds of aFeather lunch for 2022.

Rodney has been advocating for LGBTIQA+ human rights for over 30 years. He fronted the campaign to decriminalise homosexuality in Tasmania and was founder and national director of Australian Marriage Equality.

He has also been involved in campaigns for LGBTIQA+ discrimination protections, family and relationship recognition, improvements in education, health and the police force, anti-suicide and anti-poverty measures, and blood donation.

He is currently aspokesperson for national LGBTIQA+ advocacy organisation, Just.Equal Australia.

In 2003, Rodney was made aMemberofthe Order of Australia and in 2015 he was named Tasmanian Australian of the Year.

“We are very honoured and excited to have Rodney join us for our end-of-year gathering,” said BelindaBrain, one of the organisers of the Birds of aFeather lunches.

“Rodney has made many personal sacrifices in campaigning for equal rights and his fight against discrimination has helped change the lives of people across the whole of Australia.”

The event takes place on Friday December 9atthe Kyneton Bowls Club from 12pm –2pm

TheBirds of aFeather lunches are held quarterly in venues across the Macedon Ranges. Organised by Sunbury and Cobaw’s Country LGBTIQA+ Inclusion Program, they offer an opportunity for adults who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or intersex to come together, hear from engaging guest speakers and share stories.

Entry is free and meals and drinks are at bar prices, RSVPs are essential: www.surveymonkey.com/r/BOAF-RSVP-DEC2022.

Christmas lunch

Woodend's Christmas Community Lunch will include adelicious two-course meal at the local RSL on December 14 from noon.

The lunch is open to all and is an opportunity to meet new people from the local community.

Bookings are required as places are limited.

Book via the Woodend Neighbourhood House website, over the phone on: 5427 1845, or in person at the Woodend Neighbourhood House.

Theft from vehicle

Kynetong police are appealing for information on theft from a parked vehicle on Victoria Street in Kyneton on November 26.

The victim parked her vehicle, awhite Holden station wagon, outside the Kyneton Aquatic Centre about 10.30am.

The victim’s purse was left in the centre console of the car and she returned about 11am to find that her bank cards and cash were missing from her purse. Any witnesses are asked to contact Senior Constable Woods at Kyneton Police Station on 5421 2900.

RodneyCroomeiscoming to Kynetonthis month as guest speaker at the final Birds of aFeather lunchfor 2022.

When you live abusylife, it is difficult to consistently provide the attention and care that your furry friends demand, in fact, really need. Why not treat your dog to aday or stay at the Paws 4ACause Canine Country Club? Your dog will love it and you’ll know that they are really enjoying their adventures -and you won’t feel guilty at the end of the day when you come home exhausted without the time or energy to entertain your best friend!

Afamily run operation situated in the rolling hills of the Ranges, Paws 4ACause Canine Country Club owners Bee and Stu are animal lovers who donate 10 per cent of all business profits to animal welfare charities.

“We’re all about the dog and have created afacility that boasts an absolute pup paradise with purpose built secure doggy paddocks filled with toys and activities to keep our clients interested and active,” Stu says.

“There’s alake for paws that like to swim, asandpit for paws that like to dig and many walking trails for paws that like to adventure,” Bee adds.

Exercise is the main agenda and the day care is scheduled with activities your dog will love. The home-style holiday stays are just that your pet is part of the family.

Whether it be ahalf day or full day club visit or even aovernight home-style holiday stay, your dog will not want to go home but when they do they won’t be able to wait to get back! And the best is, Paws 4A Cause will pick up and return your furry friend as part of the service.

Paws 4ACause Canine Country Club is taking bookings now for 2023. Limited spots are available. Enquire for availability and club rates on 0467 467 459. www.paws4Acause.net.au

The maskofdisability

Jade Jungwirth

Alarge groupgathered in the sunshine at the Castlemaine Botanic Gardens to celebrate this year's International Day of People with Disabilities. It was amorning of celebration with local musicians Joe Smith and Benz performing for the crowd as they enjoyed adelicious morning tea of cakes and honey joys.

Between MainFM's song requests, the beautiful Christine Spicer took to the mike to share an incredibly moving story she had written, titled The Mask,aswritten below... "I watched amovie called The Mask.It was alovely movie and it was based on a true story.

While Iwas watching it, Ihad thoughts running through my mind. Ifelt like him, and the way he was treated, was how Ifelt Iwas treated too.

When we go out in the community, people look at us because we look different. We wish we could take our masks off. They think that we are monsters. They think that we cannot do what they can do.

Well, we have news for them. We can show the world that we are no different from them. We can do what they can do, not just because we look funny. It is very hard for us because we have to deal with our disabilities every day of our lives. I think the worst thing is people making fun of us and they do not realise that they are hurting us.

Sometimes Iwould like to take my mask off but people do not know what is inside us and they are too scared of us.

The worst for us is when we look in the mirror and sometimes we do not like what we see. We try and run away but we know that that is not the answer. Our problems

will not go away so we have to face up to it and cope as well as we can and get on with life.

Sometimes when people tease us we have to try to cope with it. That is not easy because we have to be strong and all we

want to do is to curl up and die because it gets too much for us.

There is much in life to do and we do not want people saying that we are quitters. We get more into our lives than ever and we are more contented people. We

live life to the fullest and enjoy life while we are here on earth. We make the most of life as we can. We do not sit down and feel sorry for ourselves. We get up and go. Life is too short. We make the most of life.

–Christine Spicer

Celebrating this year’s International DayofPeople with Disabilities at the Castlemaine Botanic Gardens.

Fioretoperform

lan McDonald.

The Fiore Chamber concert will be held at Mount Macedon Uniting Church on December 15 at 7.30pm.

Dynamic, polished, sparkling and cheeky; Fiore brings the full vibrancy of choral repertoire to audiences Australiawide.

Featuring four of Melbourne’s biggest choir obsessives: soprano –Monika Harris, countertenor –AlexRitter, tenor –Anish Nair, and baritone –Lachlan McDonald, these performers know each other's voices intimately through decades of combined experience singing with each other and strive to delight audiences with polished performances of pristine polyphony.

Expect acaptivating performance with rich expression and incredible detail, coupled with seemingly effortless teamwork that is atestimony to lifelong friendship. The repertoire includes the world premiere of There is no rose,written by Fiore’s artistic director and baritone, Lach-

Complimentary refreshments will be served following the performance.

Fiore Chamber will also be at Langley Estate, Bendigo on Saturday December 17. Tickets at: trybooking.com/eventlist/ fiorechamber tickets or at the door.

CAROLS

The annual Service of Lessons and Carols will again be held at Mount Macedon Uniting Church on Christmas Eve at 7pm.

The event supports the Christmas Bowl Appeal of Act for Peace, the international humanitarian agency of the National Council of Churches in Australia.

Then on Christmas morning, at 9am, there will be aspecial Christmas church service.

Awarmwelcome is extended to anyone, locals or visitors, to join in this Christmas.

New chamber group Fiore Chamber –some of the best young professional singers in Victoria –will present aconcert at Mount Macedon on December 15.

Fiore Chamber will present aconcertatMount Macedon this month.

Learnbelly dancing

Belly dancing is coming to Kyneton in aspecial come and try session at the local library this week.

Library staff member Karen will lead the session that is open to all those who want to try the art with no previous skills required.

The sessions aim to suit all levels of fitness and all body types. The idea is just to have fun while keeping active.

Karen wears active wear and one of her scarves when she teaches and practises so there is no need to expose your stomach.

Asession held in Woodend last week proved popular.

The belly dancing session will be held at Kyneton Library from 6pm to 7pm on Thursday December 8.

Book online via: goldfieldslibraries.com or phone on 5422 1365.

Skate parkplan

Bike, skateboard and scooter enthusiasts would benefit from asignificant revamp of the existing Gisborne Skate Park under a draft concept plan now open for feedback.

The proposed upgrade has been designed by experienced local skate park designers, Baseplate and EastbyWest.

Improvements identified include expanding the skate park to the south, developing aformalised pump track, shelters, seating, bins, and access to drinking water.

It would also include an accessible ramp, improved drainage and repairs to existing chips and cracks.

Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s director of assets and operations, Shane Walden, encouraged regular skate park users and the broader community to have their say on the draft plan.

“From our previous consultation with users and the local community, we know the current facility could cater better to various skill levels and different user groups. The proposed plans identify ways to improve that,” he said.

“The plans also focus on upgrades that complement the existing infrastructure and use the space available to the south of the park.”

Adrop-in session was held at the weekend but feedback can still be lodged online.

The draft plan can also be viewed at: mrsc.vic.gov.au/yoursay, or council’s customer service centres in Gisborne, Kyneton, Romsey and Woodend. Submissions close Friday December 16.

Following consultation, the draft plan and feedback received will be presented to the council for consideration and future identification of funding opportunities.

Tree goes on tour

Lisa Dennis

The countdown is on until the Castlemaine Community House Christmas Day Community Lunch, which will be held at the Castlemaine Town Hall on Sunday December 25.

In the lead up to the free community event, the CCH Christmas Lunch Tree is touring the region, providing an opportunity for people to donate gifts or make a monetary donation to support this special event, which aims to bring cheer to those doing it tough this Christmas.

CCH projects officer Kirrily Flanagan said community members were invited to donate handmade, homemade or purchased gifts for children or adults to brighten someone's day at the local Christmas lunch.

"We also invite cash donations towards the lunch. You can donate by contacting Castlemaine Community House at 30 Templeton Street, by scanning the QR code on the Christmas Lunch Tree or via the CCH website," Kirrily said.

CCH community development and learn local coordinator, Kez Jennings, said they had already had an incredible response to this year's community lunch with fantastic support from local sponsors and businesses, more than 40 volunteers signed on to assist, and 60 community members already registered to attend.

The lunch is being supportedbyCastlemaine Community House, Dhelkaya Health, Mount Alexander Shire Council, Safe Space, Every Life Matters and HALT (Hope Assistance Local Tradies).

"It's areally special event that is open to everyone in our community and agreat opportunity for those who would otherwise be spending Christmas alone. Allare welcome including individuals and family groups," Kez said.

If you would like to donate agift or make acontribution you can find the Christmas Lunch Tree at Maldon Neighbourhood Centre from today through to this Friday December 9; St Vincent de Paul Castlemaine on Monday December 12, at the Castlemaine Community Lunch at the Town Hall on Tuesday December 13, at

the Salvation Army Thrift Shop from December 14-16 and at Maxi IGA from December 16-23.

"People can also take away abauble template to decorate, which they can return to be placed on the tree on Christmas Day. These baubles will then be offered as gifts for people to take and put on their own tree as mementos of the CCL2022," Kez said.

To sign up as avolunteer or tobook to attend the lunch, simply scan the QR code on the tree or contact Castlemaine Community House on 5472 4842.

Will Gonzalez, KirrilyFlanagan and KezJennings invite community memberstomakedonations to the Castlemaine Community House Christmas LunchTree.

About the rebate

TheHome Heating and CoolingUpgrades Program will help Victorian households improve their thermal comfort by offering rebatestoupgrade gas heaters, electric heaters and wood heaters with energy efficient reverse-cycle air conditioners. Those with no heating mayalso be eligible

Through upgrading ahome heating system, applicants can improve their quality of life, provide jobs fortradespeople,producebroader environmental benefits by reducing gas emissions and improving local air quality,and pave the way forthe electrification of Victorian households as the statetransitions to arenewable energy future.

Under the program, eligible households can receive: »$1,000 towardsthe cost of an energy-efficient reverse-cycle air conditioner; »$200 towardsthe cost of decommissioning their outdatedgas heater(if an existing gas heaterisbeing replaced); and »$500 towardsthe cost of upgrading their switchboard(if an upgrade is required to install the rebatedreverse-cycle air conditioner).

Still talking trucks!

Everyone seemed to go trucking mad the weekend before last when the 34th HHA & Larsen’s Castlemaine Rotary Truck Show returned to Campbells Creek –and they're still talking about it!

With the biggest turnout of entrants and spectators in a decade, more than 3000 people of all ages rocked up to the Campbells Creek Recreation Reserve to check out the trucks and enjoy some fab musical entertainment.

It was acompetitive show and tightly contested. In fact, it was adifficult one to judge who would take home one of the 12 trophies on offer.

Rig of the Show and a$1000 cash prize went to an impressive Kenworth owned by JBE Transport.

The previous day Bransgove Truckin’s 2017 Kenworth T900 Legend took out Best on Show.

But going by the spectator attention each truck got, they were all winners!

Jamie from

udlywears aUnicorn headband donated by DCMT Classic restoration.

Astray spark from awelderignited materials and chemicals in atin shed on arural property at Lauriston last Friday. The blaze broke out about 4.30pm and quickly engulfed the large workshop shed.

workshop shed. Photo: Brian Wilson, closed 3 pm Friday, Decem re opening on Monday, Jan

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Poetry from thepeople

After astellar return in June, following abreak due to the pandemic, the final Chamber Poets of the year in December is celebrating its attendees with an extended Open Section.

Chamber Poets has featured adiverse range of poets from our region and beyond over the past months including: Peter Bakowski, Kevin Brophy, Alice Wanderer, Myron Lysenko, Angela Costi, Grant Caldwell, Claire Gaskin, Ross Donlon and LaurenLee Williams.

These acclaimed poets each shared their own unique style of poetry, providing plenty of inspiration and contemplation to their audience. Haiku, lyrical, visual and poetry through song, amongst others, were all apartofthe tapestry of creativity on show.

Chamber Poets is the only spoken event of its kind in the Macedon Ranges and has been an enormous support to poets after the difficulties of the pandemic. Many poets were forced to launch their books online during lockdowns, thus relaunches at Chamber Poets have been welcomed.

This month ChamberPoets is devoting the afternoon to the

attendees with alonger than normal Open Section. Some afternoons there have been more than 20 poets willing to share their words and this extended opportunity means more people than usual can participate.

Each month resident band, Black Forest Smoke, has engaged the audience with their esoteric acoustic sound and quirky lyrics.

In November, Melbourne writer David Wood won the Poet of the Month Award for the sixth time, proving his worth once again to judges and audiences alike with his idiosyncratic, amusing vignettes. His award places him three wins ahead of Trentham poet Gael Elliot.

Chamber Poets will return in February next year with more featured poets and opportunities for visitors to participate. The Chamber Poets Collective is grateful to the Woodend RSL for providing awelcoming space to gather.

Poets and musicians are warmly invited to the December event on Saturday the 10th from 1pm at the Woodend RSL. Entry is a$5or$10 donation at the discretion of the attendee.

Carollers at the library

The Castlemaine University of the Third Age Choir will be presenting a Christmas Concert at the Castlemaine Library on Tuesday, December 13.

Community members are invited to come along to the event, which commences at 1.30pm and runs until 2.15pm, and join the 'Singalong of Christmas Songs and Carols'. All welcome.

BlackForestSmoke engagesthe audience with their esoteric acoustic soundand quirky lyrics

Double the Christmas joy

Kyneton Community House is again hosting two inclusive community Christmas lunches on Tuesday December 20 and Wednesday December 21.

Things will look abit different this year with both lunches taking place in KCH’s new Good Food Hub at 35 High Street in Kyneton.

The venue already hosts Small Bites, aprogram to help upskill young people and others looking at acareerchange in front and back of house hospitality skills, and weekly community lunches.

“It seems obvious to take these two offerings in the last week of service at the hub and turn them into community Christmas sitdown free lunches," said Claire Rawlinson, KCH director.

"People really crave togetherness at this time of year and this is our small way of making this happen for folk that might really need it.”

The lunches will bring together 80-90 people over the two days, and are made possible with the help of generous donations, hard work and aband of dedicated volunteers. Macedon Ranges Shire Council has also offered to partially fund the event to make it happen.

These community Christmas lunches have now been running for three years, and Kyneton Community House hopes to keep the tradition going for many years to come.

To book aseatatthe lunch, visit the Kyneton Community House’s website or call the main office on 03 5422 3433.

The team would also love to hear from any community members interested in volunteering with them on one of the two days, or in the future in the community lunch program or as aSmall Bitesparticipant.

Kyneton Community House director Claire Rawlinson (right) is pictured with West Ward councillor Janet Pearce at arecent community lunch.

After

The Gisborne and District

4.30pm

and is expecting alarge crowd this year.

the

At Gardiner Reserve from 4.30pm there will be live music, free children's activities, family entertainment, carnival rides, and market and food stalls.

Arange of free children's activities will include face painting, henna tattoos, hair braiding and sparkles, miniature railway,

Entry to the event is free.

The

9.30pm.

atwo-year COVID hiatus, the Gisborne Festival returns this Friday (December 9) from

to 9.30pm at Gardiner Reserve.

Lions Club coordinates

event

junior sporting activities, jumping castle and the 'snakeman'. The street parade begins at 5.30pm and includes alarge range of community groups, floats, pipe band, stilt walker, Bendigo Chinese Lions, Santa and two major attractions-monster truck and monster dragon.

Lions Club is appreciative of the local businesses that have supported the festival by being sponsors, which enables it to be an inclusive event for all families. The festival concludes with afireworks display at

‘Monster Dragon’ –one of the attractions to be included in the Gisborne Festival parade

Digital artist on top

Woodend's artist Garth Henderson has been named winner of the Hornsby Art Prize's Digital Stills category.

Judges described Garth’s winning entry, Banksia-menziesii/2021,as having “exceptional detail and clarity".

They described his piece as "an engaging work with excellent presentation”.

The Hornsby Art Prize is an annual, national art competition and exhibition promoting and celebrating outstanding original works of art.

Dreamscapes unveiled

An intriguing new exhibition, Dreamscapes,featuring fine art drone photography by Eamon Wyss was officially unveiled at Castlemaine's Lot 19 art precinct on Saturday.

Dreamscapes is acollection of dreaming stories found naturally in the landscape –a series of unmanipulated drone photography of ephemeral salt lakes in Victoria, purposely composed from the air to emulate abstract paintings.

Eamon Wyss is adrone photographer with apassion for abstract storytelling.

Alifelong disciplinary artist, he has developed adistinct creative style based on composition and colour theory, in which he pays meticulous attention to detail while composing his works from the air.

He seeks out what he describes as ‘contemporary dreaming stories’ that lay hidden in the landscape.

In this way, his work first appears to the viewer as abstract

paintings that play with our imagination; however, as the viewer steps closer, Mother Nature’s exquisite work is revealed.

Wyss said the main inspiration for these works came from Aboriginal dot paintings he encountered in the Australian desert as aboy, which used both topographical and symbolic communication of the landscape to tell astory.

International award-winning Australian artist, Anthony Breslin, said Wyss’s work drew us back to take in the abstract whole while seducing us in to explore the natural details.

"In this way, his work provides auniqueinteractive or theatrical experience for the viewer," Breslin said.

If you missed Saturday's opening you can catch an artist talk with Eamon Wyss on Saturday December 17 at 2pm. The exhibition runs until December 18.

The gallery is open Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays 11-4pm. For more information visit www.lot19art.com

Artist Eamon Wyss with one of his incredible works.

The tour coincides with the release of the Ultimate double album and DVD, chronicling their expansive 40year music career.

The Ultimate tour features asix-piece lineup, fronted by founding member Brian Canham on vocals and guitar.

"After a10-year hiatus in adifferent side of the business (running aproduction company), Irealised Ihad missed performing and that at 60 I'm not too old," Canham said.

"It's been fantastic, if not exhausting (it takes abit out of me on stage), but I'm pretty agile and my voice is great still. I'm working with alineupofyounger guys who are fresh and have agreat energy.

"We have our first female, Sammy Paul. She is really

fantastic with great vocals and is areal powerhouse on stage."

Canham noted some of the differences between touring in the 80s and touring now and in particular the mutual respect between the audience and the band in recent times.

"We went through stages where people didn't like us, most loved us, but now we no longer need to prove ourselves," he said.

"These days the audience is alot teenagers from the 80s, but also their kids, so we've got abroad audience."

Another big difference is the fashion and the hairstyles, although there are swings and roundabouts. When Pseudo Echo first took off 1983 they were renowned for their root-permed mullets. These days Canham sports apretty epic mohawk andattimes aspectacular moustache.

"My son actually has amullet now and he looks exactly like Idid in my 20s," he said.

"I get abit restless with my image. Ilike to keeping

pushing myself; with fashion and with music."

What's in store for the Castlemaine audience on Friday night? Canham told the Express that it is aparticularly interesting show because the songs are predominantly old, played in chronological order featuring hits from Autumnal Park and Love An Adventure albums. Also, for the first time since the 80s, the band will be performing feature tracks from the controversial, yet much-loved stadium rock Race album.

"We've never played in this way before. You can see areal evolution in the sound throughout the gig. The Race album has actually gained quite afollowing over the years. We released the album and then broke up in 89 so we hadn't played it much. We've had people begging us to play it for the last 20-30 years.

"When we walk on stage and there's awhole lotof love its amazing. Singing the alot of the same songs over the last 30-40 years, you just get better at it. It's second nature and you just get to have fun."

Jade Jungwirth

Pseudo Echo have returned with an epic national tour, performing their last concert of the year at the Theatre Royal in Castlemaine this Friday.

Pseudo Echo bring their ‘Ultimate’ tour to Castlemaine’sTheatre Royalthis Friday. Photo courtesy of Nino Lo Giudice forAmnplify

Cash/Carter tributeshow at Phee Broadway

Apopular Johnny Cash and June Carter tribute act, led by areal-life married couple, will soon be coming to Castlemaine.

Mark and Joanne Caligiuri star in Get Rhythm –ATribute to Johnny Cash and June Carter as the famous country duo.

Coinciding with the closeknit spirit of many other classic country acts, they are accompanied by Mark’s sons, Chris (double bass) and Lucas (drums), and Mark's cousin, Adam Prozzo (lead guitar). Their set will include crowd favourites like IWalk the Line, Folsom Prison Blues, Jackson, ABoy Named Sue and many more.

The Caligiuris have toured Cash shows across Australia for 15 years.

“I was actually afan of the Carter family when Iwas in high school!” Joanne explained. “I used to like old country music and Iwas also very familiar with Johnny Cash. I even remember the exact moment of learning of his death on TV when Iwas in high school.

“When the movie [Walk the Line]came out in Australia in 2006, Iwas so excited and told Mark we had to go as Iwas afan of Cash.

“After we saw the movie, Mark became a fan of the music so we decided to create our own Johnny Cash Show.

“I actually already had some Cash CDs that Ishared with Mark and he was hooked, that’s when we started to form ashow and a year later, in 2007, we started it.”

Years of touring helped shape what they

wanted to express through their shows.

“We want people to get excited,” Mark said. “We perform an energetic show and to feel the connection with each other too as that was an important part to John and June.

“Getting everybody together and having agood time to some of the greatest country songs ever written and to take them on a journey throughout the night.”

Outside of live performances, they are also building asizeable online presence. Their cover of Johnny Cash and June Carter’s Cause ILove You has racked up over 54,000 views on YouTube.

The show will be taking place at Phee Broadway Theatre on Saturday, December 10 at 7.30 pm.

Audiences can expect afun-filled, highenergy show—with some audience participation. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.trybooking.com/cbchg.

Photo courtesy of RockZampaglione

Share at Christmas

Woodend NeighbourhoodHouse is againhostingareverse advent calendardrive forthoseinneed.

Unlike aregular advent calendar where thefocusisonreceiving a treat every day, the reverse advent calendarencourages youtoplace an item aday into thebox in the leaduptoChristmas

After20days, the filled reverse advent calendar can be left at Woo dendNeighbourhood Housewhere it willbesharedwithpeopleinthe community experiencing food insecurity and hardship.

Items suggested for the reverse advent calendar are non-perishable food, toiletries, toys, books or a Christmas treat.

Reverse advent calendar boxes are now available for pick up from the Woodend Neighbourhood House.

Stop by the house at 47 Forest Street, Woodend, between 9amto 3pm on aMondaytoFriday to pick up your box

Christmas at the Kyneton Farmers Market is the time to get ready for that big day. Whether it is gathering food and drinks for the table or gifts for those special people, there is something for everyone.

Of special note is the panforte made by Elizabeth of Romagna 29 from her kitchen just outside of Kyneton.

An Italian specialty thought to have originated in Siena, Italy, during the 13th century, panforte was the currency paid to monks and nuns as atax due on the seventh day of February that year. As spices are among the ingredients, the panforte was considered to have value.

When panforte was originally made it did not contain nuts, and when this addition was made some time later it became too expensive to produce and was therefore only made for special occasions, hence its association with Christmas.

Elizabeth’s panforte not only tastes delicious but comes wrapped in beautiful Florentine paper. It is also aseasoned postal traveller!

As well as panforte you will find jams, chutneys and all sorts of dried goods to fill a hamper or unique gifts at the Makers Market, situated up the hill nearest the church.

There will also be special gifts for the children –homemade bon bons and fruit –and stallholder vouchers for those who arrive early.

The December Kyneton Farmers Market is on from 8.30am to 1pm this Saturday, December 10, at St Paul's Park in Piper Street.

Market organisers thank everyone for all their support throughout the year. Have a safe and Merry Christmas from all at the Kyneton Farmers and Makers Markets!

Panforte made by Elizabeth of Romagna 29 is aspecial treat on offer at the Kyneton Farmers Market on Saturday.

Prestigious award for RSL

Kyneton RSLSub-Branch was awarded the prestigious Victorian State RSL Licensed Sub-Branch of the Year award in the Victorian RSL Branch Hall of Fame Awards.

The sub-branch took the top title up against more than 50 other licensed sub-branches throughout Victoria.

It's an award that recognises an individual subbranch that has successfully promoted all aspects of the RSL, has developed and maintained asuccessful and viable commercial operation, and sets an example for the licensed sub-branch network in Victoria.

Of particular note was support shown to veterans, commemorative activities, membership growth and the quality of the operation of the sub-branch and services provided.

The sub-branch's welfare office continues to provide vital support to veterans assisting with DVA claims and providing home help to those in need, as well as conducting camaraderie nights and veterans catch-up afternoons.

The sub-branch is involved with commemorative services for ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day, as well as other important days. It also supports local schools and community organisations.

According to Kyneton RSL president John Taubman, one of the main reasons for the success of the sub-branch has been due to the untiring efforts of the staff ably led by general manager Rebecca Hemphill.

"Without their loyalty and support, the Sub-Branch would not be in the position it is in today," he said.

To further enhance the reputation of the subbranch, two staff members also received achievement and recognition awards on the night.

Stalwart of 27 years service at the Kyneton RSL, Judy McIntyre, and head chef Dylan Thomas were both recognised for their contributions.

Celebrating the arts

The

Performances

It is afree, drop-in style event open to all.

The foyer

RSVP

Staff and membersofthe Kyneton RSL at the awards night.

Macedon Ranges Shire Council is preparing to launch its 2023 Arts and Culture Event Program with aparty on December 15.

event will be asneak peek at the shows coming to Kyneton Town Hall Kyneton Museum in the first half of 2023 and will include pre-sale tickets and entertainment.

planned include Malmsbury singer-songwriter Lucy Wise, Babaganoush, which combines the best Gypsy/Romani, Balkan and Greek music from eastern Europe, and Macedon Ranges band The Mods.

bar will open from 6pm selling drinks from regional producers, catering and finger food will also be available.

by noon on Wednesday, December 14, at: mrsc.vic.gov.au to secure your place.

I’mGlad

Timeto

GETREADING

Exiles -JaneHarper

2022, fiction/mystery/thriller, 416 pages

At abusy festival site on awarmspringnight,a baby lies alone in her pram, her mother vanishing into the crowds. Ayearon, Kim Gillespie’s absence casts alongshadow as her friends and loved ones gather deep in the heart of South Australian wine country to welcome a new addition to the family. Joining the celebrations is federal investigator Aaron Falk. But as he soaks up life in the lush valley, he begins to suspect this tight-knit group may be more fractured than it seems. Between Falk’s closest friend, amissing mother, and awoman he’s drawn to, dark questions linger as long-ago truths begin to emerge.

My Mom Died -JennetteMcCurdy

2022, memoir/entertainment, 320 pages

I’m Glad My Mom Died is aheartbreaking and hilarious memoir about Jennette McCurdy’s struggles as aformer child actor including eating disorders, addiction and a complicated relationship with her overbearing mother and how she retook control of her life. She was six years old when she had her first audition and it was her mother’s dream for her to become astar. Eager to please, Jennette went along with what her mum called ‘calorie restriction’, eating little and weighing herself five times aday.That was just the beginning of her mother’s control. Told with refreshing candour and dark humour, this is an inspiring story of resilience and independence.

Word Nerd-John D. Williams Jr 2016, memoir/Scrabble, 240 pages

Beginning his career on alark as afreelance contributor to Scrabble News, John D. Williams fell down arabbit hole inhabited by gamers, geeks and the grammar police. For 25 years, as the executive director of the National Scrabble Association, Williams served as the official spokesperson for the game, and as the middleman between legions of fanatical word-game fans and the official brand. Now, Word Nerd takes readers inside the byzantine, dog-eat-dog world of top tournament players, creating apiquant (seven-letter word, 68 points!) work that is part pop-cultural history, part anthropological study.

Eggshell Skull -Bri Lee 2018, memoir/law, 358 pages

Eggshell skull: Awell-established legal doctrine that adefendant must ‘take their victim as they find them’. If asinglepunch kills someone because of their thin skull, that victim’s weakness cannot mitigate the seriousness of the crime. But what if it also works the other way? What if adefendant on trialfor sexual crimes has to accept his ‘victim’ as she comes: astrong, determined accuser who knows the legal system, who will not back down until justice is done? Bri Lee began her first day of work at the Queensland District Court as a bright-eyed judge’s associate. Two years later she was back as the complainant in her own case. This is her story.

Grants awarded

Three community groups will benefit from Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s Small Project Grant of $1500.

Lancefield Cricket Club will used the funds their upright freezer and pie/food warmer project.

The Mount Players plan to put their funds towards publishing abook on 50 years of The Mount Players.

Kyneton District Business and Tourism Association will put their $1500 to their Christmas decorations project.

Biosecurity grants open

There’s still time to apply for DELWP’s Livestock Biosecurity Funds Grant Program. Projects that boost biosecurity for the cattle, sheep and goat, swine and honey bee industries are wanted. Applications close Friday December 23. For more information visit: agriculture.vic.gov.au

MTORING

Someone maybewatching...

With the increase in the number of deaths on Victorian roads, Crime Stoppers has taken the unusual step of releasing footage that typically would never be seen by the public.

Working with Victoria Police, Crime Stoppers Victoria has anew road safety campaign targeting reckless and careless drivers. The new campaign You Never Know Who’s Watching,uses de-identified footage of drivers behaving badly on our roads and encourages motorists to submit their own footage to Crime Stoppers.

“We are always protective of those who come to Crime Stoppers with information and have never released footage of this nature,” said Crime Stoppers Victoria chief executive Stella Smith.

“We have taken this unusual step

Holidayroad...

The school holidays are once again upon us, and road trips are proving to be agreat way to experience acost-effective holiday and support local economies.

Here are some tips for astress-free road trip.

*For real-time trip time estimates, fuel pricing along the way, and parking rates when you arrive, download the arevo app.

*Ensure your car is up to date with its service requirements and everything is in good working order.

*Have adequate car insurance and emergency roadside assistance. Before aroad trip is agood time to review your car insurance. Pay particular attention to the coverage you have for ahire car, windscreen damage and towing of your vehicle.

*Check for road closures due to flood damage on the VicRoads site. Plenty of roads throughout the state are still partially closed so check those shortcuts out first before you try travelling them.

Potholes galore to avoid

Road users are urged to exercise caution after heavy rain and flooding has caused road deterioration including many deep potholes.

RACV head of policy, James Williams, said it was important road users were aware of the changed conditions brought about by the extreme weather.

“People would be acutely aware of how quickly weather conditions can change they would also know that the recent storms can have asignificant impact on our roads,” Mr Williams said.

Rain is akey factor in how potholes form. RACV is urging caution for motorists encountering potholes, which can pose a safety hazard and cause damage to your vehicle.

Large potholes have the potential to cause severe damage to your tyres, wheels, suspension, exhaust and/or vehicle body, and in some cases can even lead to drivers losing control of their vehicle.

Even small ones can cause wear and tear to your vehicle’s suspension and steering, which can be costly.

When you do encounter apothole, avoid sudden breaking and dangerous swerving into oncoming traffic. Keep afirm control of the steering wheel, which can be jolted with impact.

But best of all is to keep eyes firmly on the road and plan each metre ahead as you travel.

Flooded roads and deep puddles are also a factor following rain.

Some puddles can be hiding large potholes underneath them, so you should avoid driving over puddles where possible, and never drive through floodwaters.

because we want to do what we can to prevent further road fatalities and we know Victorians are concerned about safety on our roads.”

Deaths on Victorian roads are up 12 per cent from the sametime last year.

“It is important that drivers understand that they never know who’s watching and risk-taking behaviour can be recorded at any time, shared with Crime Stoppers and investigated by police,” Ms Smith said.

With more people installing dashcams and recording devices, Crime Stoppers encourages sharing of footage to their online platform.

“It is asimple process to upload pictures and/or videos and can be done on amobile or computer. You can even choose to remain anonymous,” Ms Smith said.

If you have video footage of reckless or careless driving, you can upload it at crimestoppersvic.com.au

Trees spread cheer

Business Kyneton has created some Christmas cheer on the corner of Piper and Mollison Streets.

Specially fabricated metal trees sponsored by local businesses have been installed and decorated to welcome the festive spirit.

Not only do they dazzle during the day, they also light up at night.

Pictured with their newly decorated sponsors tree are Bec Moore from Tea of Earth, Ziggy Thiner and Rocco Moore.

Storytime picnic

To celebrate the end of the year, Kyneton Library is hosting aspecial story time Christmas picnic in the Kyneton Botanic Gardens on Wednesday.

The picnic will be held at the Kyneton Community Park (near the pig shed and playground) on December 7from 10.30am to 11.30am. Participants are advised to bring their own snacks and apicnic rug.

Lancefield celebrates

The Lancefield community is celebrating Christmas with aspecial gathering at Lancefield Park on Friday, December 16.

The event will include jumping castles, apetting zoo, face painting, live music, abarbe cue put on by the local Men's Shed and aSanta visit. The event is planned for 6.30pm to 8.30pm.

Carols time with Shane

Shane Jacobson is hosting the Macedon and Mount Macedon community carols by candlelight event on this Wednesday at Tony Clarke Reserve.

The free evening of fun will include performances from local bands, musicians and school groups from 6pm.

There will also be asausage sizzle, ice cream and coffee available... and aspecial visit from Santa.

Christmas services

The Anglican Parish of Kyneton and Malmsbury will be holding Christmas services in both towns on the following dates:

Kyneton Community Carols: Sunday December 18, 7.30pm at St Paul's, Kyneton.

Blue Christmas: Wednesday December21, 6pm at St John's Malmsbury.

Christmas Eve:

5pm Family Service at St Paul's, Kyneton 7.30pm Holy Communion at St John's, Malmsbury 11.30pm Midnight Holy Communion at St Paul's Kyneton

Christmas Day: 9am Holy Communion at St Paul's, Kyneton.

The liqueur limoncello has its roots in which country? (3 points) 10. Which classical composer responsible for Für Elise?

Such awaste

Chris Hooper,Castlemaine

It seems such awaste to demolish the old nurses quarters at the old hospital site in Halford Street Castlemaine ('Demolition planned', Midland Express, November 8).

It surely could've been used for emergency accommodation? Ihad heard there was an asbestos 'problem' but that is only a risk when it's broken.

Ilooked into some ground floor windows of that building years ago and saw partly furnished functional rooms. Now after being empty for so long it's been vandalised.

We have homeless people here and people not able to find rental properties and maybe those affected by flooding. Surely it would've been an excellent stop gap, possi bly with social and youth workers on hand? What awaste.

Notanisolated occurrence

Alison Joseph, Bullengarook

Inote with interest the letter from Lauren Williams of Maldon concerning the unusual conversion of Crown Land to freehold ('Legal theft of public asset', Opinions,November 29). This is not an isolated occurrence.

Ifirst became aware of this issue when Iwas involved with agroup of residents in Brighton opposing the development of Dendy Beach.

Mysteriously, part way through aVCAT process, the entire beach was converted from apublic reserve to freehold in the name of the council.

Ialsodiscovered aportion had previously been transferredtoVictrack.

Ithenidentified numerous other examples, including that 36 hectares of permanently reserved crown land at Elsternwick (Elsternwick Park) had likewise been converted to freehold. The transfer of public land at Kilmore to private individuals associated with the local racing club is another example, and Ihave also found a case where private land was transferred to acouncil without the owner knowing anything about it.

All these transfers have been done surreptitiously and contrary toproperlegal process.

The problem appears to be that Land Use Victoria is freeholding public land, totally oblivious to their legislative responsibilities. The genesis of this issue seems tolie in confusion about the status of public land trustees, and aLand Use Victoria project aimed at ridding Victoriaofold-title land. It appears aparticular problem where land has been freehold and then reverted tothe Crown, whereby Land Use Victoria then re-converts it back tofreehold and transfers it to whoever they like. Once the land has been transferred, it then becomes almost impossible to trace the history back and identify the previous public land status. The reason no one can find any record of the conversion of the land at Maldon, may well be because no one was ever informed about the conversion and there is no formal record.

Ihavebeen trying for several years to gain attention to this issue as Ibelieve it applies Victoria-wide. It constitutes the wholesale theft of public land. It also poses an enormous risk to the integrity of Victoria's land registry on which the ownership of all our property depends.

Unique opportunity

Russell SMowatt, president, Calder Action Group Inc

An open letter to Premier Daniel Andrews:

May Itake this opportunity to congratulate you and your government on your recent election victory in the State Election for 2022.

The policies and plans for Victorians over the next four years have resonated with the electorate with an outstanding win for your government.

We agree that ‘Hope always defeats hate’. However we hope that your government will continue with its plan to ‘Fix the Calder’. Additionally to make afirm commitment to fund the Calder Park Drive/ Calder Freeway Overpass in your next state budget.

We encourage your government to

continue with your strategic vision to widen the Calder, its bridges, reinstate emergency lanes and increase the speed limit to100km/h all the way to Gap Road in Sunbury.

Our group and the wider community live in hope that after eight years of your government you now have the unique opportunity to complete the tasks ahead for all Victorians.

Conflicted reportcoming

RobertGreen, Lancefield

When landowners read the local paper to find out another decision has been made on atown development plan overlay without our knowledge ('Council toremove Lancefield DPO?', Midland Express,November 29), it brings us back to April 2017 when we found out in the local paper about the creation of the DPO24 that the council had been working on for three years since as early as 2014.

While the latest decision can be seen at astep in the right direction by many (thank you councillors), is it appropriate?

According to the council, the DPO was the appropriate planning tool. Well that failed spectacularly!

In June 2022, council staff acted without our knowledge and consent, and failed to secure state government funds to cover up astate government problem that they own responsibility in the matter.

Would you ask the fox to write areport on how tokeephim out of the chook pen?I think not...

Imyself cannot trust staff as they have assiduously defended the controversial and failed DPO.

The failures of the DPOwas acknowledged by the CEO in March 2021.

With landowners having lost their rights to use and enjoy their land and and being treated unequal to their neighbours, along with the financial disadvantage caused to many, how about the correct and responsible adult decision –according to the relevant codes of conduct and policies –be made andthe matter handed to the relevant jurisdiction to be thoroughly investigated to find out where this went so wrong?

Waterreleasestopped

GreaterWestern Water told customers last week it has stopped releasing Class Btreated recycled water from the Romsey Recycled Water Plant to Deep Creek.

"With storages at Romsey Recycled Water Plant reduced to asafe operating level of 95%, we have been able to stop this release," GWW said.

"Wet weather releases over the last month, combined with transporting water to other locations, have brought the plant’s storages back to asafe operating level.

"Independent water sampling and testing was continued until the release was stopped. These results are available here. Our regular internal recycled water monitoring program continues as normal."

However, GWW also advised that further releases could be necessary in the future.

"Taking into account forecasting by the Bureau of Meteorology, there is ahigh probability that further wet weather releases will be necessary this year –possibly from 10 December 2022," GWW said.

"While we continue to truck some water out of the plant, this will not be sufficient to keep storages below 95 per cent if high rainfall continues to increase storage levels. Saturated soil also means recycled water will not be used for irrigation until at least January 2023."

GWW said it would notify customers in advance if further wet weather releases were necessary.

Burn off permit waived

Macedon Ranges Shire Council has waived the burn off permit requirement this month for property owners of small blocks, to streamline clean-ups ahead of the fire season.

Property owners of land less than one acre (4000 square metres) within the shire will not have to obtain the usual council permit to burn off throughout December.

The move was done in consultation with local fire brigades and was enabled by awetter-than-normal spring.

Anyone burning off, regardless of property size, must still register their burn by calling VicFire on 1800 668 511.

When burning off, residents must ensure that they avoid impacts to their neighbours and should continue to monitor any burn off for at least seven days to ensure it is fully extinguished.

Council’s director of community, Maria Weiss, said waiving the permit was an important part of supporting residents to get their properties fire ready.

“We should be preparing our properties all year round, but ensuring your property is clear of fine fuels is especially important before the summer fire season begins,” she said.

“We’ve had an unseasonably wet spring, which has left grass and bushland wet across the Macedon Ranges, but there is always an increased risk of fires now and we cannot become complacent.

“Everyone has arole to play in preventing fires. Awell-maintained property will help to reduce the risk of fire in our community, benefitting you and your neighbours.”

MRSC also reminded residents to

consider the safety of wildlife and check any debris piles for animals beforethey burn them.

Wildlife officers recommend residents use atorchand abroom,orpole, to carefully check the centre and bottom areas of the bonfire. Aspade or fork could cause serious injury to an animal.

To assist residents with cleaning up their properties, green waste disposal is free atcouncil transfer stations for ratepayers and tenants in the Macedon Ranges. Residents are also encouraged to make use of their green waste bin, which is collected weekly.

Transfer stations are located in Kyneton, Romsey and Woodend.

For opening days and hours, visit: mrsc.vic.gov.au/transfer-stations or call 5422 0333.

Rural bliss

Arareopportunity is presented to purchase this beautiful country estate with an exceptional, beautifully appointed and quality built Hamptons- style two-storey residence of approximately 378m2 (40sq) with spectacular views over gentle undulating countryside to Mount Macedon.

Sophisticated accommodation includes an impressive entrance hall with oak timber floors, staircase, large open kitchen with stone benchtops and European appliances, walk-in pantry, separate galley, elegant formal living, dining area, plus alfresco dining area. Aseparatelounge/theatre room has an open fireplace plus there is astudy, downstairs powder room and cloak room, large laundry with drying room, double lock-up garage with internal access and four car carport.

Upstairs, there is ahuge main bedroom with walk-through robe, large ensuite with heated spa bath and private alfresco area overlooks the entire property. Three other large bedrooms all have their own ensuites and walk-in robes. Large rumpus room with northerly views of Mt William. Fully ducted heating and cooling and double glazed windows.

The home is set among landscaped gardens, beautifully manicured lawns and mature trees. There’s also anew LED lit mod-grass tennis court surrounded by feature rock walls. Good soils, vegetable garden, abundant water with two spring-fed dams, abore plus a stunning ‘lake’ with featured decking plus many more features also add to the appeal.

Property: Stunning rural propertyof44.6Ha(110acres) with four bedroom, four bathroomhome Address: 60 Staffords Road, Lancefield Price: $3,650,000 Agent: KeatingsReatEstate Contact: John Keating: 0419 880444 /5427 2999 Peter Wood:0408866 774

MIDLAND PROPERTY& LIVING

The best long-term investment

By Nerida Conisbee Ray White chief economist

Although people buying and selling property quickly have done well through the pandemic, holding property long-term is always the best strategy to build wealth. Even if you buy at the absolute peak of the market, keeping aproperty for alongtime means that it barely matters. And having afully owned home at retirement puts you in avastly different situation to a renter.

Once purchased, the family home is atax free asset in most of Australia (Canberra is switching from stamp duty to an annual land tax system). Buying afamily home, instead of renting and investing in other asset classes, can mean much less tax is paid over time.

Property investing’s role in supply of rental properties also means some tax incentives are in place. In order to ensure asteady supply of rental housing, negative gearing and capital gains tax concessions are in place for those that buy rental properties.

Use of debt

Alot have done well out of property. One of the reasons is the use of leverage. Simply, using debt to buy aproperty has resulted in much better returns. When investing in other asset classes, debt is less often used.

Even small increases in the value of your home can lead to amuchbiggerfinancial gain than putting adeposit into alternative investments and then renting. As averysimple example, consider someone (let’s call him John) with $100,000 saved. John is considering whether to use his savings to get amortgage and buy a$1million home or put his deposit into ashare portfolio instead. Both shares and housing are seeing the exact same capital growth of five per cent per annum. If John doesn’t buy ahome, he will pay rent instead of paying off amortgage.

After just one year, you already have avastly different scenario. If John bought the house, the value of his home has increased by $50,000. Alternatively, the value of his shares would have increased by $5000 -90per cent less than the capital gain of the house.

Renting long term adisadvantage

Buying afirst home is important, not just to get on to the property ladder but also because being arenter at retirement means that you are much more likely to be living in poverty. It’s also the case that being arenter makes you much more susceptible to market fluctuations.

Consider if you bought in Sydney 10 years ago, you would be paying less on your mortgage now for ahomethat’s worth double than what you paid for it. If you rented, you would be paying $9360 more per year for ahome that you hold no equity in.

Effectively, when you buy, you’re locking in repayments at the price you paid. Obviously, this will fluctuate according to interest rate changes but ideally over time you pay down your mortgage reducing this sensitivity. If you rent, then you will always need to pay market rent.

Nerida Conisbee

TheHillsHoistisstill here,and themid-centurycharacter of thehome is preserved witha70s twist. Well positioned,between the Botanical Gardens, Castlemaine SecondaryCollegeand NorthPrimary School, this period gemisready forabrightfuture. Idealasagreatfirsthome or apassiveinvestmentand immediately livable,the northfacingback yard offers tremendous possibilities to extend andcapitalise on thesunny orientation to bringthe outside worldin.

Conveniently positioned,thiswellproportioned4bedroom family home hostslarge family gatherings with ease as well as affording adults and kids theirown spaceand privacy. Setbackfromthe street with acircular forecourttothe over-sized double garage,the wide entryhallleads to aformalliving room withgas fireplace forquietcontemplation,before opening to afull width,informal, open plan family

area withan exquisitekitchen floodedwithmorninglight

OPEN THIS SUNDAY 11.45am-12.15pm

EPR $945,000 -$975,000

Centrally positioned andbeautifully presented, this elevatedfamily home is poisedfor relaxed, countryliving with alarge allotmentof1,037 sqm providingthe backdropfor this 4bedroom family home modelled along classiclines. Theopenplankitchen,living anddiningareaisthe perfect settingfor anyfamily gathering, whetherintimateoronalarge scale. Quitesimply, this is countryliving at itsbestand most relaxing

OPEN THIS WEDNESDAY 12.00pm-12.30pm SATURDAY &SUNDAY 11.00am- 11.30am

OPEN THIS THURSDAY

SATURDAY &SUNDAY 12.30pm -1.15pm

10 Shirley Drive, Taradale

Coolebah -Spacious Family Homestead In Park-Like Surrounds

The peacefulvistasofthe surrounding landscape providethe perfect backdrop forthisextremely private,4 bedroom,2 bathroom homestead which delivers lightand spaceinequal measure. Nestledinto gently undulating terrainonaverymanageable 4.7hectares(12 acres),the cypress tree-lined driveway createsa calmingsense of arrivalwhich reinforces the ruralidyll of astunning property teemingwithwildlife. Thereisanunderstated, timeless style about thehome,which combines elements of thepopularhomestead style with vantagepointsoverthe park-likesurroundings from thefront verandah

2 4 4 4 7 ha(12 acres)

Feels like home

Home isn’t aplace, it’s afeeling, and 4AlmaCourt, Kangaroo Flat feels like home from the moment you walk through the door. Acomfortable and inviting house, it seems at ease with itself and its surroundings. You are drawn into the light, open spaces. Oversize windows and french doors welcome the natural light and encourage the transition from indoor to outdoor living.

The home is big and has four-bedroom accommodation, with an ensuite, built-in robe and dressing room to the master. The other bedrooms all have built-in robes. There are multiple living areas, alarge family kitchen with all the conveniences, dining room with french doors opening onto the spacious rear deck, acentral family bathroom and

large laundry with built-in storage. Under the roofline there is also an oversize double garage and separate home office with reverse cycle split system. This is asubstantial home.

Outside, you are blessed with just more than aquarter acre of land and the current owners have transformed the gardens into aprivate and peaceful place. Mature trees provide shade and there are ornamental plantings as well as aveggie patch and chook run.

In addition to the decked area there is araised gazebo offering asheltered place to sit and enjoy the garden. The rear yard is fully fenced, making it secure for pets and children.

Property: Substantial four bedroomfamilyhouse on morethan aquarter of an acre

Address: 4Alma Court,Kangaroo Flat Price: $660,000 -$680,000

Agent: PropertyPlus Real Estate Contact: Di Selwood 5447 4088

Home among the gumtrees

On the high side of Carol Street, nestled among the gum trees, this super stylish home born in the 1950s combines light, character and convenience. It is just ashort stroll to the Castlemaine Secondary college, Mt Alexander Golf Course, Kaweka Nature reserve and the botanical gardens. The brightly styled home has polished timber floors, large windows, adecked balcony and apaved alfresco verandah-outdoor area. There are three double bedrooms, alight filled entry, central bathroom, laundry with direct outside access, and arenovated kitchen with stainless steel cooker, dishwasher and timber bench-tops. The home has abright and spacious living-dining room with wood fireplace and reverse cycle air. Outdoors there is much space with a780m2 garden, pavement driveway, parking and carport area.

Enjoy the character, convenience, serenity and 50’s vibes!

Let's talk REAL ESTATE

Anotheryearhas passed andwasn’t this year abig one!

Interestrates were low,then they jumped, nowthey’re up andweare allsweating. Thereturn of activity post pandemic, the election, theincrease in tree-changers, the demand forproperty,the need forspace.

Themad cycleand rushofday-to-dayliving hasbroughtusheretoDecember, the final weeksofthisvery big year

After the pandemic, there wasthe rain and as theweather dries up, we arestarting to seemoreproperties comingonthe market.

The popular springselling season was slow due to the extreme wetweather and flooding of an almostbiblical nature, with many ownersholding offonputting their house on themarketuntilcalmerweather

Thesummerseason lookspromising with a lotofmaintenance on propertieshappening after thestorm damage andanew lease

on lifeacrossKyneton’s gorgeous garden scape

After themassive Nick Cave event at HangingRockinNovember, it’s exciting to seeKyneton andthe Macedon Ranges buzzingagain. Thecafes andrestaurants arefulland thereare alot of curious visitorsreturning to the beautifultownship again afteratumultuous12months

Thetownputsona great showover summer with itsnearbywaterfalls and walks, itscountrylandscape, stunning community andproud garden owners. We areexpectingabusyperiod this season and welcome buyersand sellers, or just passionate propertyloversintoRaine & Hornetodiscussthe marketand what’sin storefor 2023

Fromeveryone hereatRaine& Horne Kyneton, we thank youfor your support throughout the year andwish youa safeand happy festiveseason. Cheers to you!

with Jennifer Pearce

front native garden. At the rear is agarden shed plus a concreted and powered 10.5m x6msteel double garage plus large workshop for those wanting to get creative or continue tinkering. Thereare two further roofed areas for a covered gardening project or outdoor entertaining sites. Inside aretwo large double bedrooms with built in robes, main 3piece bathroom, separate laundry with WC and a spacious rear of house office or second living area with polished timbers. The kitchen features gas cooking, dish washer,plenty of bench and cupboardspace.

Maldon

36A Templeton Street $745,000

PRETTY COTTAGE IN THE HEARTLAND OF MALDON Offers brand new living that is level, light and lovely!

Ideally set within the natural beauty of Maldon, this lovely brand-new cottage exudes acompelling combination of light, space, and contemporary practicality,resulting in a relaxing easy living home. Constructed by local builders, Cain Constructions, the home’s exceptional space and form areperfectly arranged over asingle level, and feature2 generous double bedrooms, 2bathrooms (ensuite and main), large open plan livingdining with air conditioning, built-in cabinetry,and French doors that open to alarge decked outdoor living space with north-east aspect. Thereisaspacious kitchen with drawers, apantry,stainless steel oven and dishwasher,and adjoining laundry-mudroom with cabinetry and space. Set on a500 squaremetreallotment, the property has a recycled redbrick entryand paved verandah, 2car carport with storage shed, original brick dairy outbuilding.

Available lots include: Lot 23 :420m2 -$245,000 -Lot 25 :420m2 -$245,000 -Lot 27 :467m2 -$259,000 Lot 28 :917m2 -$375,000 -Lot 29 :720m2 -$345,000 -Lot 30 :720m2 -$345,000

Lot 31 :808m2- $359,000- Lot33: 480m2- $265,000 -Lot 19 :672m2 -$287,000 Lot 20 :656m2 -$287,000 -Lot 21 :650m2 -$287,000 -Lot 34 :480m2 -$265,000

Lot 35 :608m2- $289,000- Lot37: 686m2- $309,000 -Lot 38 :730m2 -$330,000

Twenty-five years of incredible vision, careful curation and pure love deliver what this home is today, a10-acre property unlike any other. This charming two-storey, fourbedroom home offers the picture-perfect escape to the country, equipped with all the mod cons for contemporary family living. But it’s the 360-degree views, the spectacular gardens and the incredible alfresco spaces that will truly steal your heart. Here, you will feel amillion peaceful miles away from the hustle and bustle despite being just seven minutes from popular Castlemaine.

Alongdriveway through secure electronic gates delivers you to the property’s pinnacle where the home sits, capitalising on unparalleled views of Mount Franklin, Mount Alexander, Castlemaine and even Daylesford. Immediately, lush lawn spaces, acustom-made basketball court and an inground trampoline speak of the charmed upbringing children have had here. And there is so much more to discover. Cascading down the undulating land with extensive stone work is the thriving, terraced botanical gardens. Awinding pathway invites you on ajourney through this temperate oasis where you will discover rare purple oaks, ginkos, morton bay figs, conifers and palms among lush underplantings. The garden’s clever use of trees, colour and form means much of it is now low maintenance.

Decked spaces and seating invite pause and admiration along the way. An undercover and elevated decked area on the edge of one of the two large dams takes in breathtaking vistas of the gardens. Alarge entertaining space incorporating astructure trellised with an

oriental grape vine, gabion

adouble-decker

accommodation

established

power

raised vegetable beds thrive thanks to permaculture principals and there are ten secure chicken

Of the residence, enter into the main living room with ambient wood heating, boasting 10 x8metresofspace for the family to enjoy together. The quality kitchen has stone benchtops, ashowpiece 900mm Falcon oven and aShaw’ssink. The fourth bedroom or study and apowderroom are also located downstairs. Upstairs, the sleeping quarters offer three character filled, robed and carpeted bedrooms each with asplit system and the generous main with an ensuite and its own lounge area. Up here you also have asecond bathroom. Abackup 9000W generator and aboreonthe property are also huge bonuses. This rare lifestyle offering, just moments from Castlemaine, has too many features to list.

Property: Four bedroom, twostorey home with all mod cons Address: 130Congdon Road, BarkersCreek Price: $1,950,000 -$2,145,000

Agent: Jellis Craig Contact: Jeremy Bottomley–0433772 033 Carole Lenander –0401472 346

benches, and

bus with sleeping

and

unveils itself on the northern side. The

orchard and

runs.

Welcome to Coconut Island

Sew ngapa/ maiem (welcome) to Coconut Island, a modern Australian tropical style four-bedroom home in the heart of Maldon, inspired and designed in the Torres Strait. Bespoke in design and completed to ahigh standard, the property has asix-star energy rating and apassive solar design. It’s time to sit back and enjoy Coconut Island.

Tucked away privately from the street, on an impressive 4224m2, the floorplan features awide front porch leading into aspacious entrance with jarrah detailing. Central to the home is the living space, highlighted by an impressive high vaulted timber-clad ceiling and awallofwindows capturing the landscape outside. Open plan to the living and dining, the kitchen features WA karri benchtops, alarge tasmanian oak island bench, aBritish Belling freestanding double oven with an induction cooktop, and an Asko dishwasher. The north-facing living room with aCanadian-made Alderlea fireplace has sliding doors that lead out onto an entertaining deck overlooking the garden. Completing the living space are three additional rooms, a

TV room or home office, aconcealed entrance that opens into aformal dining room, and awalk-in pantry with laundry and external access.

On either side of the house are four generous bedrooms with built-in robes and ceiling fans, two bathrooms, one with adeep bath, ashower, and a toilet, and the second with ashower and atoilet. A guest powder room completes the internal floor plan. Additional details include double glazing throughout, plantation shutters, solar hot water, and NBN cable connection.

Externally, with just over one acre of land, there is a 9m x6mgarage, a9mx3.5 and3.7 x5.2 carports, a chook shed, and awater tank with atotal capacity of 32,000 litres. Once aChinese market garden during the Gold Rush, the rich soil features afenced paddock at the back, asmall dam, acubby for the kids, tropical gardens, vegetable beds and an orchard with citrus, apples, nashi, plums, pears, macadamia, cherries, mulberry, plums complete with an established irrigation system.

Covering the Macedon

Prepare for outages

3Market St.,

KYNETON

This summer,specialised bushfire mitigation safety devices, known as Rapid Earth Fault CurrentLimiters, will be operating in 21 locations across the Powercor network.

The lights are out, the air con is off, the laptop needs charging and the phone's almost flat ...what do you do when the power goes out?

Electricity distributor Powercor is encouraging customers to think about what to do if extreme weather affects power supplies this summer.

"While extreme events can happen at any time of the year, it’s more likely in summer when storms, lightning, high winds and heat can lead to power outages," said Adam Nason, Powercor's head of customer experience.

"We know it can be incredibly inconvenient, so we encourage everyone to make preparing for power outages part of your emergency plan."

Powercor works year-round inspecting and maintaining the electricity network to keep it reliable. This includes inspecting more than 160,000 power poles and using helicopter-based LiDAR to inspect vegetation across its full networks.

Throughout the past 12 months, Powercor has upgraded parts of the network in high growth-areas and conducted additional patrols along powerlines in the Central Highlands impacted by storms over the past year.

This summer, specialised bushfire mitigation safety devices, known as Rapid Earth Fault Current Limiters, will be operating in 21 locations across the Powercor network, covering about 17,800 kilometres and supporting almost 300,000 customers.

"Our safety devices are operated on more sensitive settings during summer and on Total Fire Ban Days to minimise fire starts and keep communities safer," Mr Nason said.

Waterplanning forthe future

Greater Western Water is seeking community input in planning for the future of water in the Macedon Ranges.

Residents are encouraged to contribute their knowledge and aspirations via an online survey or by attending acom munity pop-up event.

General manager of strategy and partnerships, Kessia Thomson, said it was important to work closely with the community to prepare for some of the driest and wettest years ahead.

“Securing the future of water in the face of extreme climate conditions and afast-growing population is apriority for us," Ms Thomson said.

"It’s important we find away forward on the challenges with those who understand and care about the region.

“It’s been fantastic to hear from some

of the locals recently on what matters most to them when it comes to water. It’s reaffirmed the value of local knowledge and is why we’re encouraging even more people to join the conversation."

Visit the GWW team for achat at one of the following pop-up events:

Saturday December 10: Lions Club

Sausage Sizzle, Main Street Romsey from 9am to 1pm

Tuesday December 13: Community Chat Café, Neighbourhood House Woodend from 11.30am to 12:30pm

Thursday December 15: Riddells Creek Neighbourhood House from 10am to 3pm

Saturday December 17: Lancefield Farmers Market from 9am to 1pm

For the online survey, or more information, visit: yoursay.gww.com.au

Risk of disease grows

Flooding and heavy rainfall have increased the risk of arange of mosquito-borne diseases in Victoria, including Japanese encephalitis.

JE can cause illness in susceptible animal species including horses and pigs.

In pigs, the most common clinical signs are mummified and stillborn or weak piglets while horses usually show no signs of illness but can present with fever, jaundice, lethargy, neurological signs and anorexia.

For mosquito control advice visit the Farm Biosecurity website: farmbiosecurity.com.au

For more information about protecting yourself from JE, following the Department of Health on social media or visit Better Health: betterhealth.vic.gov.au

Golden Wedding Anniversary 50 years

Deaths

BOURKE (nee Gebbie)

Joan Mary

Of Gisborne,Victoria.

Born12th August 1929.

Died 27th November 2022. Aged 93.

Cherished wifeof Maurice Dearly lovedmother of Jane,Elizabeth, Adam and Simon.

Treasured Nene/Nan of Elia, Mitchell and Carly

So very loved.

NowinGod’s care and Foreverinour hearts

KN268744/L

Retired Senior Constable BUIJS -(John)

Takenhome by our wonderful Lord and Saviour on 26.11.2022

Aged 90. Belovedand adored father of Sharon, Rod and Colleen (Biles).

Loving grandfather of 7grandchildren and 7great grandchildren So dearly loved. Cherished memories we will alwayskeep Phillipians 4: 6-7 Mayyou rest in peace

CAREY -Valerie (Val)

The Committee and Members of the KynetonGolfClub wish to pass on their condolences to Jennyand Robert and their families Valwas apastLadies President of ourclub Her ever cheerful personality will be sadlymissed by those whoknewher

KN268760/L

Deaths/Funerals

CAREY Valerie

Our deepest sympathyto Jim, Jenny, Robert and families on the passing of a wonderful, thoughtful caring lady We will miss youVal Rest in peace David, Helen and family

KN268772/L

MILLARD

John Francis ‘JJ’ 12.5.1947 -26.11.2022

Passed away peacefully at home In no more pain.

Loving father of Josh and Shaun. Much lovedgrandad of Ivy and Vincent. Step-dad to Sharon and Chris Long-time friend of Judy and Morgan.

‘Always the King of the Road’

KN268754/J

OTT

Editha Ursula

Died peacefully at Echuca hospital on November 27, 2022 surrounded by her family Wife of John Loving mother of Raymond, Craig and Amanda.

Castlemaine

TIMMINS -John

President Grant, members and partners express deep sympathyto Dossie and family John wasanactive

BOURKE (nee Gebbie) Joan Mary Requiem Massfor Joan MaryBourke will be held at St. Brigid’sCatholic Church, 66 Aitken Street, Gisborne on THURSDAY (Dec. 8th 2022) at 11am.

TRICKEY

Youare warmly invited to join our family fora service to honour and saygoodbye to Lester Trickey

BornEngland 8.7.1930

Died Australia 24.11.2022

Husband of Betty (Randall) for58years

Father of Victoria, Isabel and Ralph; father-in-lawofRussell Finch.

Grandfather of Meghan, Markand Peter Finch.

First Bishop of Aipo Rongo, PNG, 1976-86.

AService of Thanksgiving forthe life of Bishop Jeremywillbeheld in Christ Church, Mostyn Street, Castlemaine on Friday 9thDecember at 2.00pm. No flowers,byrequest.

To watch the service via livestream please visit the website of Mount Alexander Funerals

Mother-in-lawof Lesley, Melissa and Stephen. Loving Omie of 7grandchildren

KN268763/L

SMITHWICK Robyn

Passed away unexpectedly on Nov30, 2022.

TRICKEY -Lester

Wesand KathyTurner &families are deeply saddened to hear of the loss of our friend and cousin. Ourprayers are with Dominique, Ella and Liam Gone to join the other legendaryguitar players in the sky In God’sCare

KN268770/L

TRICKEY –Lester 22.09.1958 -30.11.2022

Our adored husband, father,brother,uncle, cousin and son-in-law will be foreverloved, and forever remembered.

Aclose friend and good mate to so many.

Lester’swarmth, love, infectious cheeky humour and sense of adventure has filled us all with great memories to cherish, and his passing has left us with deep sadness

-Dominique,Ella, Liam, Jenny, Leanne, Russell, Dean and family xxxx

KN268773/L

ABurial at the Gisborne Cemetery will follow. Those unable to attend are warmly invited to join the service via livestream, which can be accessed via Joan’seTribute at tjscottandson.com.au

KN268745/L

Please join us at the Thomas J. Scott Memorial Chapel, 5Piper Street, Kyneton on Thursday8th December 2022 commencing at 2.30pm, followed by a gathering to celebrate his lifeatthe Kyneton Bowling Club. In lieu of flowers, please makea donation to Melanoma Institute Australia via https://inmemory. melanoma.org.au/ page/LesterTrickey _2022

KN268771/L

MILLARD

The funeral service to celebrate the lifeof Mr John Francis ‘JJ’ Millard will be held at the Thomas J. Scott Memorial Chapel, 5Piper St, Kyneton on THURSDAY (December 8, 2022) commencing at 11.00am.

Aburial at theKyneton Lawn Cemetery will follow.

KN268755/J

OTT

The Funeral Service to Celebrate the lifeof Mrs Editha Ursula Ott will be held at the Thomas J. Scott Memorial Chapel, 5Piper St, Kyneton, on Monday (Dec 12, 2022) commencing at 11.00am.

Bereavement

TURNER -June

Aged 75 years LovingwifeofNoel for52years. Much lovedmother of Nicole,Steve, Simone and Scott Cherished mother-in-lawofCraig, Jo,Glenand Michelle.

Adored Nan of Randell, Taylor,Isaac, Matthew,Alex, Ryan, Harleyand Piper. Great NanofSaige and Taleah

So dearly loved, so sadly missed

A personal tribute can say so

Private Cremation. KN268766/L

SMITHWICK

The Funeral Service to celebrate the lifeof Mrs RobynSmithwick will be held at the Uniting Church, 25 Pohlman St, Romseyon WEDNESDAY (Dec 14,2022) commencing at 11.00am

Private Cremation.

The family of June Turner wish to thank everyone for their messages and condolences,itwas much appreciated. We also want to sincerely thank RayM Begg and especially the staff in SidoniaWing. The love,care and understanding shown to mum over the last 3yearswhen entering room 610 made abig difference to her endoflifeand often put asmile on her face……. Our thanks KN268775/L

much

it's difficult to find the words

Jeremy Claude Ashton

Personal CareWorkers/ Support Workers

About the Organisation

Areyou looking fora rewarding career with ahealthyworklifebalance, supportive culture, and theopportunity to enrich elderly lives? Baptcareisapurpose-driven and faith-based organisation working across Victoria,Tasmania,and South Australia, providing residentialand community care forolder people and supportto children, families, and people with disability, seekingasylum.

About Our Personal CareWorkers

Youaretheheartandsoulofourorganisation, delivering ourmission by partneringwith membersofour community to supporttheir fullness of life.Our Personal Care Workers work in thecommunity to supportour elderly customerswith personalcare,cleaning, shopping andcompanionship.

About You

We are currentlyseekingPersonalCare Workerswith experience in Home & CommunityCare, whoare willingtotravel to client homestoprovidecare,tojoin our friendly and professional team.Our clients located in Kyneton, Woodend& surrounds. Youwill bring the following

SPAGHETTI BAR Restaurant Manager

Spaghetti Bar is seeking aresponsible, thoughtful and skilful front of house manager With professional systems in place including online bookings whichcan be managed in your ownpaid time that just need your personal touch to maintain.

The position is full time 32 hours per week ThursdaytoSaturdaydinnerand Sundaylunch. Starting salaryof$75000 per annum

The position starts mid Januaryand applications are welcome to anyone who has been awayfrom the industryfor atime An interest in Italianfood and wine an advantage

Youcan express your interest via the email below or call to discuss E: daniel@spaghettibar.com.au T: 0477 967 359

Jackson,male, 1½yo desexed, white domestic s/h. He is extremely sweet and affectionate, lovesattention &being with people.Because he’swhite with pink skin he’ll need to be an inside cat to prevent him from developing skin cancer

M/C.956000015709736 Source No.BR100938

24 Langlsow Street

Castlemaine. P: 5472 5277 Mon -Sat 10-2 Sun Closed https://maaw.org.au

Public Notices

Mt Alexander Animal Welfare Op Shop Manager

•Store Manager –Full Time •Castlemaine Location •Retail AwardPay Rates +Super

We are seeking an experienced retail manager to lead adiverse team of volunteers in our Castlemaine store.Unlikemanyother Op Shops,MAAWOpShop Empawrium prides itself on presenting as both adestination and an adventure forour customers

The store's success is integral in raising funds forour animal shelter.Managing the shop is pivotal to the organisation's ability to provide animal welfare services in our community

Applications close December 23, 2022.

For full detailabout the position, email secretary@maaw.org.au

24hrMonitoredAlarms

PIN#Access7Days

State-of-the-ArtBuildings

Kaleidoscope TherapyService is ateamof Allied Health Professionals,including Speech Pathologists,Occupational Therapists Physiotherapist and Allied Health Assistants We provide services across the Macedon Ranges with our clinic based in Kyneton, Victoria Pleaseemail your CV to admin@kaleidoscopetherapy.com.au

Golf homeinclosebattle

Bill West

After acouple of very narrow unexpected defeats earlier in the season, Kyneton Golf division one bowlers bounced back to win by six shots against reigning premiers Lancefield on Saturday.

Memories of last season’s dramatic grand final between the two sides understandably came flooding back –there was even aremarkable likeness to the final rink scores with each side again winning one apiece, and the third a17-17 tie again.

Third-placed Golf was pleased to break arun of ‘outs’ against the Tigers and now sits within striking distance of securing the double chance if the remainder of the home and away matches go to plan.

The Golf green was in top condition and the summer weather conditions suited to bowls.

Toby Barker’s rink flew out of the blocks to lead 10-1 for Golf after five ends but Aaron Young’s crew fought back strongly to eventually win by six shots.

Peter Linehan (ex-Lancefield) was the big winner for Golf, finishing 12 shots up against Bev Holmes, while Adrian Plowman and Jeff Holmes finished up with the 17-17 tie.

Expect both these clubs to figure in the finals.

Golf will figure in the match of the round this Saturday against fourth-placed Gisborne.

Romsey’s unbeaten run continued with adecisive margin at home against Gisborne, with the Cam Austin and Matt Brundell rinks shining. Garry Candy prevented aclean sweep defeat.

Cellar-dweller Kyneton downed Trentham by 12 shots, making amends for the loss to the Saints early in the season, and Broadford proved too strong for fifth-placed Kilmore.

Current ladder: Romsey 115 points, Lancefield 83, Kyneton Golf 72, Gisborne 67, Kilmore 47, Trentham 44, Broadford 43, Kyneton 41.

An upset occurred in division 2, with sixth-placed Kilmore knocking Diggers Rest out of top spot.

The two closest matches of the round involved the four

sides in the division 3top four.

Trentham won by two shots against Kilmore, and Macedon went down to ladder-leader Diggers Rest by four.

Scores in all games were:

DIVISION ONE

Kyneton Golf 61 dLancefield 55 –A.Plowman17tied with J. Holmes 17, A. Barker 18 lost to A. Young 24, P. Linehan 26 dB.Holmes14; Romsey 65 dGisborne 44 –C Austin 25 dP.Williams 12, M. Brundell 23 dG.Quaife12, D. Ely 17 lost to G. Candy 20; Trentham 46 lost to Kyneton 58 H. Plias 11 lost to N. Jamieson 26, B. Mahar 18 dM.Smoljo 15, C. McKeone 17 tied with A. Mathison 17; Broadford 60 d Kilmore 47 –D.Ellis 23 dP.Newell 15, R. Chapman 18 dK Mayberry 15, D. Kelly 17 tied with A. Mathison 17.

DIVISION TWO

Kyneton Golf 50 lost to Gisborne 72 –C.Scott 19 tied with B. Wylie 19, P. Williams 20 lost to R. Newton 25,D. Wesney 27 dJ.Trounce 11; Kyneton 61 lost to Romsey 73 –M Bermingham 28 dM.Marshall 14, C. Bermingham 16 lost to A. Laing 33, H. Drinnan 17 lost to B. Groom 26; Broadford 43 lost to Macedon 74 –J.Bruce 11 lost to I.Guymer23, W. Fisher 10 lost to B. Halpin 25, J. Goring 22 lost to G. Dickinson 26; Kilmore 57 dDiggers Rest 45.

Ladder –Gisborne 96, Diggers Rest 90, Romsey 84, Kyneton Golf 77, Macedon 65, Kilmore 56, Woodend 46, Kyneton 35, Broadford 26.

DIVISION THREE

Gisborne 63 dRomsey 54 –T.Woodlock 25 dJ.Boyce 15, F. Perich 15 lost to M. Toy 25, P. Wellington 25 dC Dean 16;Macedon 60 lost to Diggers Rest 64 –L.Gent11 lost to R. Grant 25, M. Keenan 22 lost to A. Icely 25; Woodend 68 dLancefield 52 –A.Lennie 27 dP.Shannon 17, T, Sturt 26 dD Safstrom 23, A. Jewell 15 dD.Hollywood 12; Kilmore 58 lost to Trentham 60 –C.Wright 15 lost toD Walsh 21, W. Cattanach 19 dI.Van de Weiff 18, A. Jowett 24 tied with P. Ulrik 24.

Ladder –Diggers Rest 95, Trentham 84, Macedon 76, Kilmore 71, Gisborne 67, Woodend 50, Romsey 34, Lancefield 30.

newView wV

Flashback– The matchonSaturdayended up with remarkably similar rink scores to last season’sgrand final, onlythistimeKyneton Golf turned the tables on Lancefield.

Dalhousiechampion

Trentham’s Terri O’Callaghan is pictured after scoring afour-stroke victory in Dalhousie District Golf Association’s women’s championship for 2022.

It was O’Callaghan’s first win in this annual prestige event, played at on the Broadford course.

Participants were pleased to be back playing golf after missing many events in October and November due to unplayable wet courses.

O’Callaghan, who plays off ahandicap of 14, shot an 88 off the stick to defeat DDGA president Mary Campbell (Broadford) by four strokes.

Campbell won the Champion of Champions title and the day’s A-grade handicap award with her 94-15-77.

Trentham’s Helen Young took off the B-grade scratch event with a94. Lancefield’s Kaylene Richmond won the B-grade handicap with a74, on acountback from Yea’s Vicki Clements.

The C-grade scratch award went to Broadford’s Cynthia Thomas with 107.

The Mary Dockery Trophy for the best nett score across the whole field saw Natasha Richards put her home course knowledge to good use, shooting 108-36-72 in her first Dalhousie event.

The DDGA was very appreciative of the day being sponsored by the Bendigo Bank with the bank’s David Wheeler presenting the main trophies.

To cap off proceedings, outgoing women’s captain Beryl Cole (Romsey) was presented with adaphne plant in recognition of her contribution to district golf over the past two years.

Town &District

GOLF results

CASTLEMAINE

There was atight finish in Castlemaine’s medley stableford on Saturday.

Ross Stevens 80-16-64 edged out Len Watson 75-11-64 on acountback.

KYNETON

Jason McClure is aworthy winner of Kyneton Golf Club’s 2022 championship.

McClure convincingly defeated Matt Waters 5/3 in the 36-hole final.

Tien Ho and Glenn Cook had atremendous battle before Ho won the B-grade final 1-up, and Paul Law won C-grade from Phillip Barratt.

John Chandler took out the monthly medal with three strokes to spare on Saturday.

Chandler 91-23-63 also topped Cgrade by 10 shots from Bob Bennett.

A-grade: Terry Gamble 83-10l-73 on acountback from Pete Robbins 84-9-73; B-grade Adam Smith 86-15-71 on acountback from David Pilcher 85-14-71.

Ladies –Teaote Davies 105-27-78.

NTPs were Tim Buhagiar (2) Chandler, Scott Murphy and David McKelvie (also super pin).

Tuesday stableford: Vicki Nettleton (26) with 33 points, from Robyn MacRae (25) on 28.

Wednesday stableford: Woodend’s Nathan Johnston (32) with 35 points from Ross Martin (13) 34. Ladies –Julie Harris (24) with 28.

LANCEFIELD

It’s great to see some of the club's newest female members getting the gist of this game called golf.

Congratulations to Sandra Matthews who won last Wednesday’s stableford

over 11 holes on acountback from Bev Beaumont, and Marlane Pattinson for winning over nine holes.

Next week the women’s December medal will be played over the full 18 holes with the course in great shape again thanks to the volunteer members.

Saturday medal: Denis Davenport 797-72, with Glen Holland 93-19-74 best in B-grade, and Kevin McBride 100-26-74 the C-grade winner.

Legends stableford: Peter McGill (11) 35 points) from Denis Davenport 32.

Twilight golf is in full swing again on Wednesday evenings.

MOUNT MACEDON

Awelcome touch of summer helped set the scene for the Gold Plate stableford aggregate at Mount Macedon on Saturday.

The winning team with 98 points comprised Michael Smitheran (30 handicap), Isaac Golden (18), Kevin Taylor (20) and Bruce Freestone (14).

After athree-way countback, runnersup on 95 were Mick Doyle (7), Sean Smyth (12), Matt Willis (3) and Bruce Fraser (8).

Smitheram returned the best individual score of 37 points, with Rob Devereaux (20) next best on 36.

The midweek mystery pairs stableford aggregate resulted in awin from Mike Gorman (19) and visitor James Fraser (18) with 60 points after acountback involving evergreen Neville Clark (26) and Steve Barrow (11).

ROMSEY

Semi-finals of the John Laing Shield at Romsey on Saturday were close, with Shannon Wright and Dean Kohler advanc-

ing to the final.

Scores: Wright dBob McLennan 1up, Kohler dMal Mottram 3/1.

In fine conditions, some players still found the reduced rough, and the stableford event was won by Mick Nicholls Snr (13) with 36 points.

Chris vanDerVliet (28) was runner-up with 32.

Nicholls, Pat Chisholm and Andrew Clement were NTPs.

In the women’s November medal on Wednesday the winner was Jenny Hartley with anett73.

Runner-up Darlene Baker was the best putter with 31.

TRENTHAM

Jim Dickson virtually scooped the pool at Trentham on Saturday.

He claimed the monthly medal and B-grade with 84-16-68, and the 36-hole Summer Cup handicap award with 71, 65 –136.

Mark Fisher topped A-grade with 8012-68, and Austin Docherty 95-23-72 led in the C-graders.

Club champion Simon Ovenden claimed the Summer Cup scratch with 71, 79 –150.

Alex Everaud led in the ladies with a nett 71, one clear of Lorna Beaumont.

WOODEND

Young Myles Moxley excelled against alarge field in Woodend’s monthly medal event on Saturday.

He fired an excellent 85-24-61 towin by three shots from Matt Carroll 87-23-64.

Areminder to all golfers –the Woodend Open in on December 9, 10, and 11. Entries to Mick Keating ASAP

Marco Kandybko(right) was supported by coachDaniel Pollard.

Local brings home gold

Agold medal was awarded to Kyneton resident Marco Kandybko at the Oceania Powerlifting Competition hosted in Melbourne on November 26 and 27 by Powerlifting Australia.

Kandybko smashed the national record for the squat lift in the under 85kg Masters 5(60-65age group) with asquat of 170kg. An 87 kg bench press and a177 kg deadlift resulted in afinal totalof434kg.

Marco Kandybko coaches at the Better Stronger Studio in Kyneton and was supported by coach Daniel Pollard of Real Strength in Castlemaine.

‘LIFT OFF’ –afriendly meetup showcasing lifters from both studios –willbeheld on Wednesday December 14 at 6pm Castlemaine.

Anybody wanting to find out what powerlifting is all about and explore whether or not powerlifting is something they could benefit from is welcome to attend. Admission is free.

LIFT OFF will be held at Real Strength The Mill 9Walker Street Castlemaine at 6pm.

Kyneton wins trophy

The biannual Watts Fresh Challenge between the Kyneton and Macedon Croquet Clubs took place last week.

Kyneton had the home-lawn advantage this time and with Macedon having been unable to get on their very wet lawns for over four months, Kyneton may have been expecting an easy win. It didn't go quite that way. After three rounds of doubles competition, Kyneton had anarrowseven-games-to-five lead.

Macedon couldn't keep up the pressure in the final round, allowing Kyneton to retain the trophy 10 games to six. Pat Fahy and Darryl Chivers were the dominant pair for Kyneton winning all four of their games.

The return match will be held at the Macedon Club lawns in Gisborne in autumn and Macedon will be hoping to turn the tables on Kyneton.

The Kynetonteam: Ladies –Gwen Byrne,Deborah Bosman; Men –Graham Smith, Bill Caddaye,Pat Fahy,GeorgeLund, David Wauchope and Darryl Chivers.

Kyneton Golf Club’s2022 Open Champ JasonMcClure.Kyneton Golf Club’sBgrade champion, Tien Ho.

Terri O’Callaghan is presented with her trophybythe Bendigo Bank’sDavid Wheeler.

Sell-a-brations on home track

Bill West

Christmas Party races are on at Kyneton next week, but last week local trainer Mick Sell and stable followers were in celebratory mood after Lovin’ Laughs scored a strong win at his home track.

Hit hard by lack of training facilities due to flooding in the past couple of months, Sell said before the race that for the first time this preparation, Lovin’ Laughs appeared to be very fit as aresult of some home track gallops and plenty of swimming.

With Neil Farley riding confidently, the topweight went to the front before the 400-metre mark and fought on

strongly to win the 1469m Miranda Park BM58 Handicap by just under alength.

The six-year-old, bred and raced by the Miles Family from the Monegeetta/Romsey area, vindicated being a $2.80 favourite as he chalked up his sixth win, for stake earnings of $157,160 from 28 starts.

Sell’s other proven campaigner, Magnum Bullet, a winner at Kyneton at his previous run, carried topweight at Moonee Valley on Friday evening and started a$21 outsider, finishing abrave second with Farley in the saddle.

IMPRESSIVE DEBUT

Carolina Sunrise, afilly from the John Salanitri stable

at Tylden, impressed on debut at Kyneton.

Ridden by Madison Lloyd, Carolina Sunrise started as a$9chance to win aMaiden Plate for three-years olds.

The Salanitri brothers, John and racing manager Frank, relocated from Caulfield to the impressive Hirsch Park training complex early in 2020.

They are very pleased with the facilities and the number of winners being produced.

Carolina Sunrise is yet another galloper owned and raced by Eddie Hirsch and family members.

Kyneton and Hanging Rock Racing Club is hoping the Christmas Party race meeting at Kyneton on Thursday, December 15, is well supported.

CDCA action heats up

With summer having well and truly arrived, the Castlemaine District Cricket Association senior sides contested round four matches in steamy conditions last Saturday. CGrade sides also wrapped up day two of round six competition.

Highlights of the round were centuries to Barkers Creek AGrade cricketer Lewis Stabler with 110 not out and Newstead AGrade cricketer Ben Walter with 106. Best with the ball was Castlemaine United AGrade cricketer Levi Chaffey with 5-15. Results were as follows:

AGrade Round 4

Barkers Creek 8-260(cc) (L Stabler 110 not out, BHenderson 37, MNoonan 33; JGlenister 4-57, SShovan 2-36) dGuildford 60 (S Smith 4-16, BHenderson 2-6, LStabler 2-13, M Noonan 2-20).

Newstead 7-238(cc) (B Walter 106, TReece 34, SWinnard 33 not out; NRobinson 3-17, W Robinson 2-50) dHepburn 211 (N Robinson 65, WRobinson 47, TScoble 31; SWinnard 4-32, CGardner 3-57).

Castlemaine United 9-160(cc) (A Brasher 43; DGill 3-24, HMorley 3-26, BHaw 2-15) dMaidenGully Marist 105 (L Chaffey 5-15, C Aldridge 3-11). Muckleford had the bye.

AReserve

Round 4

Guildford 8-52 (A Murphy 4-21, ODaldy 2-3) lost to Newstead 8-168(cc) (T Chapman 36, MRamsey 33; KGellaty 3-19,JBCollie 2-24, JFinning 2-24).

Taradale 5-159 (L Maltby 41) dCastlemaine United 8-152(cc) (S Geddes 3-22, DStone 2-22).

Harcourt 98 (A Blake 3-0, WJ Trew 2-9, RDouglas 2-13) lost to Maiden Gully Marist 126 (S Burleigh 32 not out; B Jury 2-13, SThompson 2-16, HBrereton 2-32).

Muckleford 139 (T Cosgriff 50; GJames 4-8, JAllan 2-31) lost to North Castlemaine 9-157 (K Beer 52; H Coombes 2-24).

Barkers Creek had the bye.

BGrade

Round 4

Muckleford Maroon 5-180(cc) (T Butcher 60, BMcGuire 38, IBracken 30) dMuckleford Gold 7-169(cc) (H Harvey

48, DLeathem 32).

Castlemaine United Blue 122 (J Ellison 35, BPerry 33; S Speer 3-2, DBrasher 3-13, MHassan 3-25) lost to Castlemaine United Gold 7-157(cc) (N Grainger 60; CBaker 2-31).

Guildford lost to Newstead -noresults available.

Maiden Gully Marist 9-111(cc) (R Fisher 48; JBloomfield 4-26, KSimmons 2-15) lost to Harcourt 5-115 (J Hayden 3-25).

CGrade

Castlemaine United Gold 0-83 (G O’Sullivan 36 not out, JNutall 35 not out) dCastlemaine United Blue 82 (L Parsons 3-24, RBester 2-0, TCordy 2-2).

Newstead 7-161 (T Allen 63 not out, FJ Gardner 39; R Webster 4-12, JAnderson 3-29) dNorth Castlemaine/Guildford 5-160(cc) (R Webster 33 not out, MMatheson 30).

Muckleford 6-169(cc) (PJ Leathem 51 not out, ALayne 48) dHarcourt 8-99 (C Butcher 3-6, THamilton 2-0, S Gross 2-7).

Popular winner: Kyneton trainer MickSell and daughter Sarah with Lovin’ Laughs after winning the Miranda Park BM58 Handicap. Photo: PatScala/Racing Photos

First-up winner: Tylden-trained Carolina Sunrise,riddenbyMadison Lloyd, wins at Kyneton. Photo: PatScala/Racing Photos

Castlemaine United’sAGrade side defeated Maiden GullyMaristatthe Camp Reserve.Photo:Max Lesser

Jack nowa Hawk

When his name was called out at pick 46 on Tuesday night in the National AFL draft, it was adream come true for local Barfold teenager Jack O'Sullivan, and ahuge relief for his whole family.

Having played all his junior football with the Kyneton Tigers, Jack realises it is a massive step up to be selected by Hawthorn.

Congratulations have been flooding in from former teammates to the tough, elusive midfielder who can also make an impact up forward.

The year kicked off well for Jack with four solid games for the Oakleigh Charges in the NAB league, then six games with Xavier College in the APS competition.

He was selected for the Victoria Country Under 19 squad to play in the National Championships, however five minutes into the first game against South Australia in Adelaide he broke his collarbone.

Nine weeks later the fracture reopened during an Oakleigh Chargers match.

His mum Karen said he was devastated, but threw himself into arehab program and VCE studies, showing his strong resilience and determination.

"An invitation to the AFL National Draft combine in October was evidence recruiters had seen enough promise and Jack attended the combine, tested fully fit and took out third for the vertical leap and vertical running leap," Karen said.

"Jack interviewed with several AFL clubs, but it was Hawthorn who chose him to join

their team, and now he's aHawk."

Jack told the Express he couldn't wait to get stuck into training.

"It's been pretty hectic, it's almost every day at the club, whether it be full training or amodifiedsession," he said.

"I'm keen to start getting into it."

Jack said the moment he heard his named called out was "amazing".

"It was the feeling of having adream come true, it's the best feeling I've ever had," he said.

"I'm really grateful the club has given me this chance."

Jack will be taking agap year from study next year to focus on football and then plans to study commerce the following year at either the University of Melbourne or Monash.

He is currently rooming with teammate Josh Ward and after Christmas will move in with ahostfamilythe club has organised.

Jack is the youngest of four brothers, all talented footballers, and they all celebrated together on Tuesday night with Tommy dialling in from the USA.

Jack played his junior football with Kyneton Football Netball Club and attended Our Lady of the Rosary Primary School, Sacred Heart College then went to boarding school at Xavier College in year nine.

He also represented Victorian Country in two U17s matches last season.

The Kyneton District Football Netball Club is understandably thrilled that one of its hugely talented juniors has now reached this level.

Waycenturyat the right time

Bill West

Stung by an insipid batting performance the previous weekend against Wallan, Romsey revived to compile 287 in the two-day encounter with Diggers Rest/Bulla on Saturday.

Redbacks’ captain-coach Ben Way led by example, promoting himself to open the batting and spending alongtime at the crease to score 124 (10 fours, two sixes).

It was the only century in McIntyre Cup cricket, and Way and Chris Burnett who made 72 added 136 for the third wicket to put the home side in the box seat.

Kyneton’s Nick Tunzi had afield dayin Johnstone Shield with the ball, collecting 7-47 as Aintree compiled 223.

Romsey hadEynesbury in strike, but ahugeseventh wicket partnership of 146 carried the score to ahealthy 7/282, with spinner Jake East collecting 5-60.

Macedon is in trouble at Tony Clarke Reserve after losing early wickets and being restricted to 148 (Gareth De Rosayro 46), with the visitors to resume at 1/29.

Riders claim ribbons

In

For the Grade 5Combined Training Day, Velvet Macuso placed fourth, Mikayla Webster placed fifth and Makayla Waters received Best Dressage.

The Grade 4riders from Kyneton brought home many ribbons including Marigold Bickford and Rose Coleman who placed second and third respectively in the Pony Club Dressage Jackpot, Carla Boyer finished in fourth place and Jamie Boyer in sixth place.

In the 4.2 Dressage test, Marigold Bickford placed second, Rose Coleman third, Jamie Boyer fourth and Carla Boyer fifth.

For the 4.3 Dressage test, Marigold placed first, Ruby Fraser second and Carla fourth.

Meanwhile in the Pony Club Combined Training, Marigold placed second, Rose placed third and Carla placed sixth.

In the Pony Club Grade 3Combined Training, Evie Crawford placed third, and in the Open Grade 2Combined Training, first place went to Tahlia Tobin and fourth place went to Kiara Vallance.

"It was an awesome day for the riders to have fun and learn alot," said Kyneton rider Rose Coleman.

Special thanks to the sponsors, committee and volunteers who made the event possible.

Kyneton Pony Club will be constructing anew cross country course in 2023 and is looking for new sponsors. If your business is able to help please contact Kate on 0404 205 144.

Way is likely to open the batting in all the two-day matches for the remaining home and away matches, with Romsey having set sights on afinals appearance. His innings was almost chanceless, one extremely difficult caught and bowled being put down.

The match is being played at the Romsey No. 2oval, with works taking place on the main ground.

Now the Romsey bowlers and fieldsmen have the task of ensuring the side returns to the winning list.

Unbeaten Gisborne had contributions from plenty of batsmen at Gardiner Reserve, with the end result being 273 on the board (Matthew Baroke 52 not out, Riley Vernon 43, Mick Allen 39, and Harry Luxmoore 32 led the way; skipper Jarryd Vernon was run out for 29.

Wallan face an uphill battle in the run chase without top opener Kieran Aiken. Woodend was in agoodposition at 1/134, but the demise of Marcus Stewart for 76 enabled Bacchus Marsh to take control. Hamish McDonald 49 and Greg Matthews 31 were also among the runs in atally of 234from 66.1 overs, with the home side to resume at 0/11.

In other McIntyre Cup matches East Sunbury dismissed Sunbury Kangaroos for 226 (M. Green 61, J. King 46 –B.Watson 4-42), and ladder leader Sunbury United scored 239 (Liam Sherlock 65,UpulFernando37) and reduced Rupertswood to 2/4 by stumps.

Malmsbury is headed for an overdue victory after dismissing Wallan for 102 (Braszell, Singh and Cox three wickets each) and reply with 4/84 (Cox 31 not out, Blizzard 28).

Kilmore opener Kevin Craddock hit an unbeaten 139 in his side’s 4/322 c.c. against Gisborne, and Sunbury United made 213 against Riddell.

Rupertswood opener Bert Van Der Heuval dominated with 168 (23 fours, three sixes) in his side’s 372 against Lancefield.

Hanging Rock has avictory coming up, dismissing St Anthonys for 114 (Steven Zubrycki 5-23 from 18 overs) andreplying with 1/91 (Liam O’Meara 63 not out).

Division 1: Aintree vMacedon 9/276 (A. Grobler 77, C. Pender 50, W. Bobetic 49, T. Coppin 45); Gisborne 146 (L. Mousley 45 –G.McDonald 4-46)versus Woodend 1/63; Rupertswood 269 (W. Bond 64 n.o. –S.Hewett 5-54,Prewett 344) vTrentham 2/21; Bacchus Marsh vKilmore 7/223 (C. Partridge 78 notout).

Division2:Kyneton 201 (A. Chew 5-52) vRomsey 4/151 (S. Day 57,C.Armstrong 49); Malmsbury 9/219 (Justin Murphy 97) v Riddell. At the Kyndeton Showgrounds.

Division 3: Melton Centrals had three century makers in amassivetally of 4/428 against Rupertswood 9/175; Hanging Rock 38 lost to Eynesbury 0/40.

Club North –Lancefield 95 dWallan78 (A. Vanbeek 4-16); Macedon 5/269 (Steve Gray 100 n.o., J. Storie 51) dMalmsbury 57.

SEVEN FOR TUNZI

On Saturday Kyneton Pony Club hosted the Dressage Jackpot and Combined Training Day, with more than 80 competitors.

the Grade 5Dressage Jackpot, Maya Roulston placed sixth and finished in second place in the 5.3 Dressage test.

Pictured (L to R): Grade 4riders, Carla Boyer, Jamie Boyer, RubyFraser,Marigold Bickford and Rose Coleman, with their ribbons.

NewHawthornrecruit JackO’Sullivan is pictured with his father Martin and mother Karen.