Midland Express Tuesday April 9 2024

Faanntta a assttiico local talent l t ta a allent LICENCE EASED FOR COLIBAN

Taking place for the second time at the Castlemaine Town Hall this Friday, Fantastico! is asmorgasbord of talent brought to you by Castlemaine Fringe Festival –anight of comedy, cabaret and cocktails.

Fantastico! features astellar lineup of local talent including Castlemaine favourites Lady Fun Times Crotch of Dancers, Ngaire on the Hula Hoops, Joe Smith on vocal and guitar, and Castlemaine Circus, and will also warmly welcome some absolute newcomers to the Fringe stage.

Fringe director Azzy Jay said it was super exciting to be welcoming so many brilliant people to the stage.

"The variety of acts this year is extraordinary, we have young 'uns, not so young 'uns, circus, comedy, dance –all

you can expect from avariety show –and more!" Azzy said.

There will also be top-secret special guest appearances, dazzling lights and party vibes, delicious food and famous Fringe cocktails wrapped up in ared hot dancefloor!

"The Fringe events committee has done an amazing job pulling this together –wecan't wait to showcase all the talent people involved onstage, and off!" Azzy said.

All proceeds from Fantastico! will go towards producing the next Castlemaine Fringe Festival, which will be held from March 22 to April 6, 2025.

Support local arts events and get yourself aticket –available online via the Fringe website: www.castlemainefringe.org

You won't want to miss this... it'll be FANTASTICO!

"In 2019 weacknowledged the historical non-compliance issues at the plant, and began a$20 million investment program," Mr Wells said.

"Over the past fouryears this investment has delivered adramatic step-change in environmental performance including a95per cent reduction in phosphorus in river releases of highly treated water,atrebling of treated water storage, construction of a14-kilometre pipeline to supply recycled water for agricultural use,and anew Class Cto Class Brecycled water facility."

Mr Wells said new agricultural recycled water customers were connected and operating,with an additional 350 megalitres of recycled water provided for agricultural use each year,and continued supply of recycled water was being made to the Kyneton Racecourse, the Kyneton Botanic Gardens and local sports fields.

Aspokesperson for the EPAsaid VCAT'samended licence still gave appropriate protection for the health of the Campaspe River and the environment.

"Coliban must operate and maintain aninterlock that automatically diverts effluent from the discharge pump station at the treatment plant to aholding lagoon when total ammonia concentration exceeds 1.4mg/L," the spokesperson said.

"The outcome is reasonable andstill gives good protection to the environment, puts in place extensive controls including automated systems, and allows the Kyneton plant to operate responsibly

"This is acomplex outcome and EPAwill be engaging with the community to give athorough explanation of how it will work while still delivering on our environmental goals."

Castlemaine's Fantastico! Variety Show is back for 2024!

Fantastico! performers Pearl Williams, Susan McGowan, Kelly Lee Hickey and Azzy Jay were deep into rehearsals last

Event to showcaselocal producers

Anew food and drink festival is coming to Castlemaine to entice food enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike with adiverse array of workshops, master classes, tours, tastings and more.

Running from Thursday April 25 to Monday April 29, the Mount Alexander Tastes Showcase promises aunique experience celebrating the shire'sexceptional food and drink producers.

The owner of Castlemaine’sShedshaker Brewing, Jacqueline Brodie-Hanns, said the showcase would feature avariety of activities designed to engage and delight visitors and locals.

“From community fruit picking to creative collaborations, attendees will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich culinary culture of the region,” Jacqueline said.

Ahighlight of the showcase is aspecial lunch to celebrate one of Victoria’smost iconic food producers, Holy Goat, who have called time on their award-winning production of goat’scheese.

Hosted at The Goods Shed in Castlemaine, adjacent to the train station, the space will be transformed into adynamic, inspired room with visual, verbal and delicious tributes to the iconic cheeses of Holy Goat.

Led by chef Alex Perry of acclaimed Bar Midland, the event is acollaboration with chefs, cheese merchants, farmers, winemakers and brewers from the Mount Alexander Shire to produce aHolyGoat inspired four-course lunch with matched beverage pairing.

“Holy Goat have left an indelible legacy on cheese production and farming standards in Australia as well as inspiring others to consider all aspects of ethical production, animal husbandry,regenerative land management and production

without compromise,” Alex said. “Welovethe Holy Goat team and their amazing organic goats' cheeses, having enjoyed them for two decades, and we look forward to honouring their contribution to local food manufacturing and farming,” he said.

Other producers and venues participating throughout the four-day showcase include Boomtown Wines, Duang’s

Thai Cooking Class, Harcourt Cider, Long Paddock Cheese, Maldon Bakery,Warral Honey,Foret Pastis, Sprout Bakery,Shedshaker Brewing, Maidenii Vermouth, Golden Nugget Restaurant, Harcourt Valley Winery and Growing Abundance.

“The Mount Alexander Shire is renowned for its rich culinary heritage and commitment to sustainable, locally sourced produce,” Jacqueline said.

“The Tastes of Mount Alexander Showcase is just one of the many ways the shire celebrates its unique food and drink culture. Join us for an unforgettable experience that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.”

For more information about the inaugural event follow Mount Alexander Tastes on Facebook and Instagram.

Bar Midland team members Loudon Cooper and Alex Perry are looking forward to the inaugural Mount Alexander Tastes Showcase.

Student harnessesAI

Kyneton High School

student Olivia Hedge has won SpaceBase Challenge 2023 for her project using satellite imagery to measure methane emissions on Earth.

Olivia led the team that claimed the $8000 NZD ($7300 AUD) prize through New Zealand organisation SpaceBase.

The challenge coincided with the launch of MethaneSAT, which is anew satellite that can scan 200km2 to detect methane emissions with accuracy

Olivia'sproject stood out for its detailed and realistic implementation roadmap, use of artificial intelligence and a well-developed prototype.

"Throughout the research incubator stage, we worked with aSouth Australian company ESpy Ocean, who use their AI to detect dark vessels and fish as well as predict shark behaviour," Olivia said.

"With ESpy we developed our solution, which was to use what we know about methaneemitting wetlands to predict whether they would emit methane or not."

Olivia said the partnership was crucial to understanding how the technology could be used.

"Often, wetlands naturally emit methane, it isn’t asign of awetland necessarily being unhealthy," she said.

"Weusedfour different types of satellite images from

the satellite Sentinel-2. These were: True colour,toidentify the wetlands as wetlands. NDVI, to measure the photosynthesis activity.Moisture index: to measure the level of 'water', really to measure how much the water was obscured by plant and algae growth, and also acustom infrared image, which indicates the presence of methane and heat."

Olivia learnt of the challenge through afriend and they successfully applied for the research incubator together

When her friend could no longer continue the work due to other commitments, Olivia decided to continue the project and recruited another friend Khoa Do.

Along the way,the pair also worked with Varshith Meesala who assisted with his software development skills to make the prototype areality

The prize will enable Olivia to save for university and potentially invest in developing their AI to acommercial stage so it can be used by environmental organisations such as Landcare to identify methaneemitting wetlands accurately "I am interested in taking my project further,but the support to do this wasn’t apart of the high school category prize," she said.

"The next stage of the project would be looking at partnering with local environmental organisations to deploy

Flood study sessions

North Central Catchment Management Authority and Mount Alexander Shire Council will present the final results of the Harcourt Flood Study to the community tomorrow Harcourt experienced significant floods in 2010, 2011, 2016, and most recently in October 2022, underscoring the need for comprehensive flood data and preparedness measures.

The new flood study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of flood levels and extents for various flood events and has identified the potential impacts of future flooding to help the community prepare.

The final flood mapping and animations will be presented to the community at the ANA Hall in High Street on Wednesday in two sessions –between 3.30pm and 5pm, and from 6pm to 7.30pm.

on-the-ground sensors near wetlands. We need to test and expand our training data."

Olivia said her interest in AI had grown immensely through her work and she was excited about its potential to help progress with studies of environment and medicine.

Currently in year 12 at Kyneton High School, Olivia aims to study medicine to work as apaediatrician in highneeds rural areas before going into medical research.

"AI is an incredibly exciting discipline that has already changed the world, and Iwant to be apart of the movement that utilises its full potential to improve the efficiency of

healthcare delivery,disease detection, agricultural productivity,emissions detection and environmental conservation," she said.

"I’m really fascinated by the connection between ahealthy environment, sustainable land management practices and improved public health outcomes.

"I think that AI could play a critical role in developing our understanding of how to stabilise our planet’secosystems, achieve sustainable farming and deliver universal healthcare. But the data has to be used responsibly and for the right reasons, and that’sthe work Iwant to support."

Olivia Hedge

Insect collection seeks relocation

The Central Victorian Regional Insect Collection is seeking local support with aproposal to establish a permanent location in the Woodend Community Centre in Forest Street (next to the neighbourhood House).

Desperate to find apermanent home for 200,000 specimens, which form part of its valuable and irreplaceable collections of insects, spiders and other related invertebrates, the collection'scurator Dr Bert Candusio has called for public support for the project.

"It is hoped that this will become the permanent location for the entire insect/invertebrate research collections held by the CVRIC, but we need both public and Macedon Ranges Council support to make this project become areality," Dr Candusio said.

Once established in its permanent home, the CVRIC will become acentral focal point for the research and classification of deposited insect and related material and act as the permanent focal point for the Australian National Entomology Insect Expo, which already attracts more than 7000 visitors each year

The centre will also allow students of all ages to pursue their studies, act as abase for the Junior Insect Club, provide research and library facilities for primary,secondary and university post graduate and honours students throughout Victoria and also provide CSIRO supported formal entomological technical training for both Australian and international students.

More details regarding the CVRIC are available at cvric.com.au

Meet the climate changemakers

Palestinianfilmstoscreen

The Theatre Royal Castlemaine will be presenting aPalestinian Film Festival this Sunday.

The special event will feature the very best of Palestinian cinema from around the globe and presents aunique opportunity to connect with and get to know Palestine and Palestinians through film.

The day will kick off with the screening of Zoo at 3pm, which an eight-minute short film. Wandering through the ‘worst Zoo in the world’, aboy is looking for his football when he encounters alittle tiger who follows him on his quest to find asafe place to play. This will be followed by ALAM.Despite being part of ayoung generation of Palestinians whose families chose to stay and challenge the Israeli state after Al-Nakba, 17-year-old Tamer and his friends are just like any other group of teenage boys. They clumsily search

Meet YIMBY

YIMBYstands forYes In My Backyard,and is acommunityrun backyard composting project based in Castlemaine They collectfood scraps weekly from non-composting households and then hot-compostthem at TheHub community garden. Thehigh-quality compostisthenused to grow food in backyards.

Well done,YIMBY!

We recently asked youwhatyou’redoing to take action againstclimate change,and youtold us stories about composting, planting trees, cyclinginstead of driving and lots more!

In April, we’ll be sharing these stories with you, with theaim to inspireand learn from each other.

Watchthisspaceand find out moreabout the climate change-makers project at shape.mountalexander.vic.gov.au.

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

for drugs, flirt with girls, play video games, and slack off at school. However, when an intriguing new student named Maysaa joins their class, Tamer immediately falls for her and is drawn into her political activism.

From 7pm catch Tomorrow's Freedom.Made over the course of five years, the film gains intimate access to the family of imprisoned Palestinian political leader Marwan Barghouthi. Through the Barghouthi family and acollage of in-depth interviews from the people who know Marwan best, Tomorrow’s Freedom takes you on ajourney into the heart of the Israel-Palestine conflict, speaking to Palestinians and Israelis.

Single passes and day passes are available at www.theatreroyalcastlemaine.com.au/events/palestinian-film-festival

The film Alam, by Firas Khoury, is acoming of age drama.

RACE YA family funday

The ‘RACE YA’Family Fun Day Asthma Australia fundraiser will once again be held this Sunday in memory of Maldon teen Ned Cameron who died suddenly of an acute asthma attack in 2016.

Ned’smum Kristy Lang-O’Connell initiated the event six years ago to honour his memory,raise funds for Asthma Australia and increase education about the condition. An incredible total of $78,128.39 has been raised in Ned’shonour over the past six years through donations and RACE YA family fun days and Kristy is hoping to raise more money than ever at this year’s event at the Bill Woodfull Reserve (Maldon Football Netball Ground).

However,Kristy said it was not just about raising money

“As much as we want to raise money for research, it is also about education, awareness and creating afamily fun day that is affordable for families and allows them to spend precious quality time together,” she said.

There will be heaps to do from running races, to tug-a-war, face painting, gumboot toss, nail drive, the egg toss and much more. There will also be asilent auction, araffle, avintage car display,motorbike rides, food and drinks and alolly hunt.

RACE YA was founded in 2018 to raise awareness and funds for Asthma Australia in memory of Ned who died almost seven and ahalf years ago, at age 14.

“Weare hoping to make people more informed about asthma. Ned only ever had mild asthma and Iremember the first time Iwenttomydoctor,a couple of days after his death, and she told me athird of the people who die of asthma, only have mild asthma and Iwas shocked,” the mum said.

“Todate we have raised nearly $80,000 and while raising money for Asthma Australia we have also been able to give back to the community,implementing education, information and asthma emergency kits into local schools and sporting clubs,” Kristy said.

The local mum said the support for this year’sevent had once again been overwhelming.

“Newstead’sCrown Hotelhas pledged the proceeds from their Sunday evening Joker Poker,which is currently up to 46 slabs, so that will definitely increase funds this year.And Driscoll’sAgare major sponsors this year.Every bitdefinitely helps, and we welcome donations big or small,” she said.

Go along and enjoy agood old-fashioned family day out on Sunday April 14 at the Bill Woodfull Reserve, Maldon, from 11am to 4pm.

Entry is $10 adult, $5 child or$25 family.All profits and donations go directly to Asthma Australia. Donations can also be made to the RACE YA account –BSB: 633000 Account: 165 285 826.

Smoother ride for New Gisborne

Works on Hamilton Road in New Gisborne are now complete.

Funded under the Federal Government’s Roads to Recovery Program, an 1800m section of Hamilton Road from Kilmore Road has undergone significant reconstruction works since early March.

The works received $1,101,098 in Roads to Recovery funding, with acontribution of $273,627 from Macedon Ranges Shire Council.

Federal Member for McEwen, Rob Mitchell, said the resurfacing improvements were avital step in enhancing access to New Gisborne with aparticular focus on improving connectivity to the Macedon Ranges Sports Precinct.

“The upgraded road infrastructure will not only facilitate smoother and safer travel but also support economic growth and community development in the region,” Mr Mitchell said.

RACE YA participants enjoy some limbo fun. The RACE YA event features lots of fun activities for the whole family.

MasonCash- SweetBee

Getting connected in theRanges

Macedon Ranges Shire Council’sVillage Connect program is helping older residents connect with their community

Don and Thea McNamara moved from Bendigo to Gisborne in May 2023 and were keen to meet new people and find places to go in their new hometown. They saw aVillage Connect poster on the local noticeboard in the Gisborne marketplace and plucked up courage to answer the call, booking themselves in to aVillage Connect program and acoffee catch up at the Gisborne Golf Club.

Since then, Don and Thea have been regulars at Village Connect programs and coffee catch-ups around the Macedon Ranges and have both connected with local community groups that suit their individual interests.

Thea has joined the local Country Women’sAssociation and Don has attended sessions at the Romsey Men’s Shed, where he has been watching them restore an old model-T Ford.

They are also making good use of council'snew Age-friendly Community Directory

“We’ve fallen in love with this place, it’s absolutely beautiful and the new directory and coffee catch-ups have been very valuable in connecting us with the community here,” Thea said.

“The directory is like abible; it gives you all the information andphone numbers you need.”

Don and Thea McNamara.

The pair are using the directory to find their way aroundthe shire and make even more connections in community Council’sdirector of community,Maria Weiss, said the Village Connect program and Age-friendly Community Directory were initiatives that aligned with council’s‘Participate’ Positive Ageing Plan 2020-2025.

“It’simportant we create an age-friendly community where our older residents feel included, can participateinactivities locally, and are confident in accessing the supports they need,” she said.

Village Connect is funded throughVillage Hubs Grants program,aninitiative of the Australian Government’sSeniors Connected.

The Village Connect Age-Friendly Community Directory is available as ahard copy in all shire offices, libraries and neighbourhood centres, or online at mrsc.vic.gov.au/ VC-community-directory

Housemates appear on SBS

Castlemaine's Cate Mercer will appear in an episode of SBS’s Insight program next week to talk about ‘convenient relationships’.

Cate shares ahouse with Hansraj Shah and the housemates appear on the show to talk about their living arrangements.

Cate has been living with housemates for most of her life and loves it.

"I do it more for the social benefits than for financial reasons, although the financial benefits do help," she says.

"I believe that so many people living alone contributes to the loneliness epidemic."

Hansraj is an electrical engineer and Cate is his first housemate who isn’t from the Nepalese community.

Hansraj said he had lived on his own briefly, and said he found it really hard. He likes having someone to come home to and to talk about his day with.

Cate connected with Hansraj through an organisation called The Room Xchange, which helps people find housemates.

For the first time she says, she felt abit unsure when interviewing for ahousemate and says it was just wonderful having aprofessional organisation to vet him for her.

Cate says Hansraj is one of the best people she has lived with –“he is just so respectful, which is so important. Plus he helps me with computer issues, which Iam also so grateful for," she says.

Cate and Hansraj are keen to keep living together for as long as they can. They say while it’s aconvenient arrangement, it has also become agenuine friendship.

The SBS Insight episode, called ‘Convenient Relationships’, will air on Tuesday April 16 at 8.30pm and then be available on SBS On Demand.

Find out more about The Room Xchange at theroomxchange.com

Anzac Day services

The Romsey Lancefield RSL Sub-branch will be holding its annual Anzac Day Services on Thursday April 25, 2024, at the following locations: –Romsey Cenotaph, High Street, Romsey,8.30am. This will be essentially awreath laying service, with the public invite to lay awreath ora floral tribute, and –The main service will be held atthe Lancefield Cenotaph, High Street, Lancefield at 9.30am.

The service will be followed by light refreshments in the Lancefield Mechanics Institute provided by the Lancefield Neighbourhood House. Afterwards the Lancefield Hotel will host atraditional Anzac Day Two-Up game, commencing at noon. For any questions re the two-up game, contact the hotel on 5429 2202.

Teaching awards open

Nominations have opened for the Victorian Education Excellence Awards to recognise governmentschools, principals, teachers and administrators who are at the top of their class.

Nominations are made at aschool level and open until May 20 with winners announced in October Details at vic.gov.au/VEEA

Hansraj Shah and Cate Mercer in their garden.

Take atrip to Autopia

All roads will lead to Autoplex Castlemaine at Etty Street this weekend for the Castlemaine Hot Rod Centre'sannual 'Autopia' festival.

The theme for Autopia 2024 is ‘Women Behind the Wheel’ and the event will be supporting breast cancer research.

Castlemaine Hot Rod Centre'sVicki Farrell said they were approached by the ladies of the Magnets Car Club about holding aspecial display to celebrate their 40th anniversary and decided to make this year's focusall about women.

"Wewill be raising funds for breast cancer research and there will be live rock 'n' roll music plus special feature performances each day by local mums' acapella group MaCapella singers," she said.

"This one is for men, women (especially this time around!) and children who have an interest in hot rods, classics, customs, vintage, street machines, drag racing, and all the cultural stuffthat goes along with it."

The Show ‘n’ Shine component of Autopia will feature old school cars, motorcycles and other fun stuffwith wheels of all styles from the 1920s to 90s, with prizes awarded both days.

The event will also include the popular Model Vehicle Show onthe Sunday,local exhibitions, trade displays and raffles and prizes up for grabs.

The event will run Saturday,April 13, from 10-4 and Sunday,April 14, from 10-2.

Admission is $20 per car,adults $10, $25family,children under 10 free.

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The women of Castlemaine Hot Rod Centre encourage thecommunity to visit Autopia this weekend.

‘Get Bendigo trains backontrack’

Thestate government must immediately step in to address ongoing disruptions to Bendigo train services, Nationals Member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad says.

Ms Broad said recent figures showed Bendigo trains were cancelled more often than most other regional lines and ongoing industrial action was causing chaos for commuters.

“People rely on the train to get to work or medical appointments, go to school or visit Bendigo as tourists,” Ms Broad told Parliament.

Ms Broad said recent planned strike action was cancelled at short notice, making it hard for commuters to keep track and change plans.

“The disruption has been going on for months, and Iask thestate government to explain what is being done tomanage this situation and tocome to an agreement toget ourregional train services back on track," she said.

draft study which may influence the priority of the projects in the final report.

This consultation was endorsed to progress separately from the Kyneton Urban Design Framework andhas an extended consultation period of six weeks from April 2to May 13.

To read the study in full, view the priority projects, or contribute feedback, visit the council'swebsite: yoursay.mrsc.vic.gov.au/draft-kyneton-movement-network-study

Florals by Pemberley of Malmsbury was awarded bronze for floral design at this year's Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show.

The incredible installation 'I Dream of Flowers' was inspired by the love of books The Secret Garden and The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe Fine details kept viewers captivated like the little sedum boots,

silver birch coat hanger in the wardrobe, paper daisy and lamb’s ear quilt and bedroom rug made from garlic heads.

Another creative touch was the novels that inspired the piece themselves with apaper daisy bookmark beside the bed.

Florals by Pemberley of Malmsbury won gold and the People's Choice Award for its installation last year 'Autumn in the Macedon Ranges', which featured apinkpiano.

Gardens atourism drawcard

Macedon Ranges' gardens have great tourism potential to be further unlocked, says Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show chairman Michael Warner.

Making the move to Kyneton, Mr Warner is excited about the region's natural beauty and possibilities it has to offer on many levels.

He has more than 40 years' experience in the horticulture industry and is behind long-standing wholesale supplier Warners Nurseries.

As one of the newest members of Friends of the Kyneton Botanic Gardens, he is hoping to help reinvigorate interest in local gardens.

"I see the botanic gardens as the cornerstone of what could be an overall garden tourism strategy for the Macedon Ranges," he told the Express

"As the friends group, members are cognisant of our role with the botanic gardens but there is areal feeling in the group that this could be an opportunity for the whole of the shire.

"Gardens are arealattraction right across the Macedon Ranges –there are many private gardens, community gardens and of course the three botanical gardens.

"The Macedon Ranges has quite a unique climate and it's so close to Melbourne. We've really got to promote what the Ranges has to offer."

Mr Warner hosted agroup of Friends of the Kyneton Botanic Gardens on apersonal tour of the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show last month.

Melbourne's Flower and Garden Show provided plenty of talking points and inspiration for what could be achieved at alocal level as the friends group prepares to re-launch.

FriendsKBG

nancial support

the

Botanic

projects

events

an integral roleinpromoting, developing and maintaining the gardens. The group hasa largely new committee of office bearers andmembers who have worked enthusiastically over recent months to develop anew strategic plan.

Anew VIEW is coming

An organisation of women who support the work of The Smith Family is coming to Kyneton and membership will be on offer.

VIEW, which stands for Voice, Interests and Education of Women, is avibrant group of people who meet at various places around Australia for friendship, fun, to listen to interesting speakers and help children in need.

Go along to find out more at the Kyneton Bowling Club on April 15, May 20 or June 17 from 10.30am when the interest in forming anew VIEW club will be determined. All welcome. These first meetings are initially to gauge interest –times for meetings may later change to suit members. For more info contact Lyn on 0409 145 073 /lyngeer@bigpond.com

They have met with key Macedon Ranges Shire Council staff to establish a collaborative working arrangement and plan for the gardens, re-developed the website andbranding, and significantly

Several Friends Gardening Group working bees have been held in the gardens this year, together with MRSC staff, and are plannedmonthly

FriendsKBG will have astand/booth at the Kyneton Horticultural Flower Show in April. Other upcoming events for the group include amember'sday inMay andSpring Garden Party later inthe year.

For details about the group visit the website: kynetonbotanicgardensfriends.org

provides volunteer and fi-

for

and

in

Kyneton

Gardens and plays

increased membership numbers.

for the remainder of the year.

Friends of the Kyneton Botanic Gardens at the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show.

Dennis

The Mount Alexander Vintage Engine Club'spopular April Rally is set to return to the Dave Bennett Reserve at Muckleford this weekend.

The 27th annual Vintage Engine and Machinery Rally will highlight the Wisconsin Engine and the Oliver Tractor

The rally is always agreat family day out and achance to take atrip back into Australia'smechanical past with working exhibitions, memorabilia and collectables of yesteryear

MAVEC secretary Graham Mason said among the items on display would be abaler that featured aV4Wisconsin motor formerly owned by Muckleford farmer John Murdoch, which was recently donated to the club by new property owner Frank. Also featured will be a1950 E27N Fordson Tractor donated to the club about six weeks ago

by Maldon'sMartin Greenfield, which worked fields at near Gower in its day and features an unusual front-mounted post hole digger that could be operated by the driver

The club will also be displaying an old fire truck that formerly belonged to the Newstead Fire Brigade and will have their impressive 1930s JSmith Ballarat ChaffCutter up and running.

The club'srenowned Chamberlain tractor –a hybrid of two different models built by local farmer Morrie Oxley –will also be fired up and there will be tractor pull displays.

The club will also have an 1854 horse-drawn Carousel made in Belgium, which is sure to delight the young and young at heart.

There will also be ajumping castle for the kids, vintage and historic vehicle displays and lots more.

And the annual raffle always features some incredible prizes with funds raised assisting the friendly local club

with their various restoration and rebuild projects.

MAVEC president Stephen O'Connor said they would like to thank Mount Alexander Shire Council for its support in installing anew crossover at the entrance to the reserve to provide all-weather access to the facility

"The club purchased the pipes and council undertook the works so it was agreat collaboration and we really appreciate their support," Mr O'Connor said.

Entry to this weekend'sevent is just $5 for adults, children under 16 free. Entry is also free for exhibitors keen to bring their engine or tractor along to display and exhibitors receive acomplimentary meal on the Saturday evening.

Gates are open 10am-5pm Saturday April 13 and 10am to 2.30pm Sunday April 14.

The homeofMAVEC at the Dave Bennett Reserve can be found right alongside the Muckleford Railway Station offMuckleford/Walmer Road.

Lisa

MAVEC president Stephen O’Connor and secretary Graham Mason are pictured with the newly donated baler that belonged to neighbouring Muckleford farmer John Murdoch and worked the local paddocks for many years.

Empawrium

The Mount Alexander Animal Welfare Op Shop Empawrium has welcomed anew coordinator to the helm –local identity Peter Bottomley.

The Run Rabbit Run Cafe co-owner, former My Kitchen Rules contestant and renowned Op Shop aficionado said the move felt like coming home.

"I assisted the team at MAAW Op Shop to set up their former cafe when the shop expanded into the second half of the Johnstone Street building in its early days, before Isecured the coordinator role at the Castlemaine Salvation Army Op Shop," he said.

"I spent four years managing the busy Castlemaine Salvos store and then moved on to acoordinator role with The Salvation Army overseeing seven op shops across central Victoria, which saw me on the road most days.

"It's great to return to MAAW and also enjoy the benefits of a better work/life balance. I'm really excited for this new challenge."

Peter is passionate about vintage clothing but also about keeping clothing and household items out of landfill.

"Best of all, the funds raised through the MAAW Op Shop Empawrium play acritical role in supporting the work of the MAAW animal shelter caring for and re-homing local animals and its dayto-day operations," he said.

"The shelter has acontract to provide local pound services for Mount Alexander Shire Council and receives funding grants from time to time, but the consistent revenue generated by the Op Shop Empawrium helps keep the vital local service ticking over."

Peter said the success of the popular local op shop related to two key factors –the support of its wonderful pool of volunteers and the quality of donations from the community.

"I always say does it pass the litmus test? One of my volunteers always says 'Would you give it to your sister?' If not, don't donate it to your local op shop," Peter said.

"You are just creating more work for our wonderful local volunteers and more expense for your op shop with thousands of dollars spent each year taking unusable items to the tip!"

MAAW receives some incredibly high-quality items with many generous local animal lovers choosing to support MAAW over auction houses, appreciating their mission.

Peter said they always welcomed new volunteers.

"There are awiderange of roles from front of house to sorting if you prefer to work behind the scenes, restocking items or rearranging displays. There is ajob to suit everyone and you're sure to make some wonderful new friends," he said.

To find out more about volunteering at MAAW Op Shop, contact Peter on 5472 4200.

The MAAW Op Shop Empawrium in Johnstone Street, Castlemaine, is open Tuesday-Friday, 10am to 3pm, and Saturdays 10am-1.30pm. The shop is closed to the public Mondays but open for donations by appointment.

To check out some of the items available in store visit the MAAW Op Shop Facebook page or MAAW Empawrium Op Shop Instagram account.

Water prices proposed

The Essential Services Commission has released its draft decision on Greater Western Water’sproposed prices for water services for the four-year period.

GWW'sproposal for the four years from July 1leads to adecrease in atypical annual customer bill for most customers.

The commission’sexecutive director of pricing, Marcus Crudden, said GWW would deliver several key initiatives to support customer value.

“Among its key initiatives, GWW will increase investment in assets to maintain service quality and reliability,responding to challenges from climate change and population growth,” Mr Crudden said.

“GWW has also established acom-

monset of customer outcomes across its regions and will further harmonise water and sewerage tariffstructures over the next four years, in line with customer preferences.”

Mr Crudden said the commission’s draft decision was open for feedback to inform afinal decision on prices to be released in June.

“Our draft decision proposes some reductions to Greater Western Water’s forecast costs and also seeks more information in other areas including new customer contributions, to inform our final decision,” he said.

The draft decision is open for feedback on Engage Victoria until May 7. The commission will hold apublic forum on May 2.

Full-fibre broadband upgrades

More than 20,000 households and businesses in McEwen are now able to access upgrades from slow copper to world-class, full-fibre broadband over the National Broadband Network.

Fibre is capable of delivering speeds 18x faster than the average broadband connection over copper,and is less likely to drop out or degrade.

“The federal government’sinvestment to expand full-fibre broadband access in our local community is agamechanger,” McEwen MP Rob Mitchell said.

“Access to this technology is vital for families who have had to struggle with drop outs and slow speeds over copper.”

Following NBN Co’sinitial construction work, fibre upgrades are available on demand at no installation cost when an eligible household or small business takes out an eligible higher-speed plan.

Check if your property can get full fibre by visiting the website: nbnco.com.au

Newcommunitylunch partnership

Kyneton Community House is joining forces with Little Swallow cafe to bring anew dimension to the weekly Community Lunch program.

Little Swallow recently opened their café for dinners on Friday and Saturday nights and abranch of the business is now supporting the KCH Wednesday lunches.

Daniel Richards and Austin Stevens from Little Swallow Dinners will be coordinating and cooking alongside the Kyneton Community House’s Good Food Hub coordinator

Kelly Miller

KCH director Claire Rawlinson was excited to continue collaborating with Little Swallow

This new venture follows a successful partnership in creating acommunity mural that can still be viewed in the courtyard at Little Swallow Cafe.

"It’salways apleasure to work alongside Dan and the generosity of spirit always shown by Little Swallow to the community should not go unrecognised. They contribute so much to so many.Wecan’t wait to see what they cook up!" she said.

"Through this partnership, and other generous community members, KCH will be able to keep the lunches going into the foreseeable future.

"The social benefits of the program are undeniable and to have the pressure taken off

some aspects of delivery will allow KCH to focus on growing the Good Food Hub space in other ways.

"Programs such as Small Bites

and Social Craft on Tuesdays will be able to expand their offerings thanks to this partnership."

KCH is also hoping to kick offa Thursday youth hospitality training program in the near future. The Community Lunch runs each Wednesday at the Good Food Hub, 35 High Street, Kyneton, from 12.30pm. Adonation of

$7 is appreciated. The first lunch cooked by the Little Swallow Dinners team will be Wednesday,April 17. Everyone is welcome.

Behind the new community lunch partnership: Kelly Miller, Daniel Richards, Austin Stevens and Claire Rawlinson.

Harryheads to nationals

Harry Gatt travelled to Adelaide at Easter to compete in the Australian Brass Bands National Championships.

This was the first time in the band’s 170year history that amemberhad competed as a soloist in the Australian National Competition.

To help him on his way, the band presented Harry with acheque for $200 to assist his travel costs.

He competed as aflugel horn soloist representing the Macedon Ranges and the band.

While there was no podium finish for Harry, he scored well getting 81/100. There were 18 competitors in the national flugelhorn solo section.

Harry joined the Kyneton band in May 2015. He primarily plays flugel horn, but also plays lead cornet and tenor horn. He is currently also learning to play the trombone.

Road worksbegin

Workshave begun to upgrade a535 metre section of road from 1129 Three Chain Road, heading west, towards Carlsruhe. Roadside drainage improvements are also part of the plan.

The works are jointly funded by the Australian Government’s Roads to Recovery Program and Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s 2023/24 Capital Works Program. Works are due to be completed by the end of the month, weather permitting. People using the road should allow allow extra time as there may be minor delays.

planned with the rest of the band, when they recovered their music sheets, joining Harry to finish the march.

Revelin autumn glory

There is no better place to enjoy perfect autumn weather than in the garden of Viewfield on Mount Macedon.

Viewfield is open to the public during the Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival until April 28 from 11am-4pm.

Take along apicnic and your well-behaved dog on alead and enjoy this magnificent private garden at 651 Mount Macedon Road, Mount Macedon.

Botanically diverse, this 10-acre garden really shows off its colourful grandeur during autumn with magnificent european trees, eucalypts, achildren's fairy garden, afruit forest, everchanging perennial gardens and more and there is even astreamrunning through shady fern glades.

Open times

Saturday April 13 and Sunday April 14

Saturday April 20 and Sunday April 21

Anzac Day Thursday April 25

Saturday April 27 and Sunday April 28

Entry fee: Adults: $10. Children under 16 free.

All gate proceeds will go to Shared Table,aregistered charity that supports families in the Macedon Ranges.

Kyneton Municipal Brass Band member

Harry will probably be remembered by people who attended the Lancefield Relay for Life in February. It was Harry, when ahuge gust of wind blew over most members' music stands, who kept on playing his favourite piece, Our Director, solo. It sounded as if it was all

Band president Gary Andison, Harry Gatt and musical director Hugh Davies.

SUPER QUIZ?

Local knowledge (1 point)

1. The Maldon Easter parade was cancelled due to rain this year: true or false?

2. Where in the Macedon Ranges would you find Fook Shing?

3. Who is the current mayor of Mount Alexander Shire?

4. What shock announcement was delivered last week about the Castlemaine State Festival? (3 points)

5. Macedon Ranges exhibition Artanica features what kind of art?

General knowledge (1 point)

6. How many stars appear on Cuba’s national flag?

7. The following lyrics are from which song: Time on my hands/Could be time spent with you/Oh, laughing like children Living like lovers?(Bonus point: who is the artist)

8. Where did manga originate?

9. The following are characters from which long-running US television series: Miranda Bailey, Ben Warren, Christina Yang and George O’Malley? (3 points)

10. Pink armadillos are exclusive to which country?

Outstanding effort

Kyneton Lions Club

The Kyneton Lions Club would like to thank Kyneton anddistrict community for the outstanding money raised for the Royal Children'sHospital Good Friday Appeal.

We would like to thank the people who patiently stopped to give money at the traffic lights.

We would like to acknowledge and thank the following:

Percy'scake stall –$1727

Woolworths –$3384.25

CWA– $1000

Tylden CFA– $1309

Metcalfe CFA– $2468

Taradale CFA– $1420.45

Kyneton Lions Club –$9705.40

The total amount raised was $31,793. What an amazing amount raised by such agreat little community.A bigthank you to the volunteers who helped on the day

Youdon't have to play

Barrie Musgrove,Romsey

Re. Rose Latimer's letter ('Difficult to make sense of', Opinions,April 2).

In reference to to your claim that pokies should not be on main shopping strips. The Kyneton Bowling Club is on ashopping strip and has 25 machines. The Gisborne's Victorian Tavern is on ashopping strip has many machines.

Any more rubbish you want to bring up just because you don’t like it? Pokies, you don’t have to play them, but Ibet you have your wager on Tattslotto. Go back to your TV and leave everyone else alone.

Group gives thanks

Mount Alexander EastTimor Friendship Group

The Mount Alexander East Timor Friendship Group would like to thank all the amazing community members of Mount Alexander Shire who continually and generously donate to programs in our Timor-Leste sister community,Lolotoe.

The Lolotoe people have offered deep thanks when the grouphas been able to support them in times of flood, destructive wind events (recent crop destruction saw some community members lose their entire bean crop –ausual staple food) andthe COVID pandemic.

MAETFG also has alovely,committed group that contributes funds each month to ensure the wage of Felly,our librarian and community development worker,can be paid.

This young woman, aBachelor of Teaching graduate, has performed amazingly, showing communityleadership, developing groups of young people around agriculture and sewing business projects and running the library,all while having asecond child and raising her firstchild. She is truly incredible.

This past year,the friendship group were happy to offer her four months paid maternity leave –and she came back bouncing, with new agriculture projects (four altogether) and responding to agroup of young women with dreams ofcreating a local sewing collective

Each year the group has put Felly’s wage up alittle andthis year,for the first time, we may not have enough money coming in to cover her wage.

If anyone wishesto give funds to GROW

for Felly’swage, please donate to the Friends of Lolotoe and tag the donation as GROW so we know it is for Felly.The account name: FriendsofLolotoe, BSB: 633 000, Acct: 135490555 and the reference GROW

State of the festival

Stephen Carthew, HarcourtNorth

The report on thedemise of the Castlemaine State Festival was sad to read (‘State Fest in strife’, Express,April 2), but carefully crafted, aswas Iassume the media release from the current committee that it was based on Festival committeesover the years have curated hundreds of successful and popular events, exhibitions and activities. They will be lamenting the final act.

The report acknowledged lower ticket sales and, by implication, smaller audiences and participation. It also implied, by admitting “diminished audience satisfaction” that the festival had failed on the supply as well as the demand side. People stopped wanting what was on offer

This aspect of the festival will be debated regionally for some time to come.As it is, people will recall the history of past festivals with fewer but better attended performances and events. At the same time, the rise and success of, for example the nearby Bendigo Chamber Music Festival should beacknowledged, to counter current opining about the general state of festivals.

In my personal viewthe festival had succumbed to populism. By this Imean the balance between popular/trend-driven offerings, particularly in music and dramatic arts, and acknowledged, recognised quality offerings in those fields has foundered.

This is not to condemn innovation and contemporary compositions and performances. It is atilt against performance and performers wanting principally and publicly to express angst anddisquiet about ‘identity’, dysphoria and perceived community anomie. We are talking about afestival, acelebration, as well as an occasion for reflections.

As the current committee leaves the $6 million Goods Shed headquarters it should leave the door slightly ajar.The barbarians might want to get in.

Editor’sNote: The Castlemaine State Festival committee isawaiting areportfrom the administrators to be released after 28 days andishopefulofsecuring afuture for the event.

Consistentplanning?

CarlyNoble, Bendigo

Re. Rose Latimer’sletter (‘Difficult to make sense of’, Opinions,April 2).

While Iunderstand the significance of the application for poker machines in the Romsey Hotel, it is important to refer to the poker machines that have been in placein twovenues in Kyneton for many years.

Clause 52.28 (Gaming) does forbid the installation of electronic gaming machines in areas perceived as either ashopping centre or an area where major community facilities are present as stated in last week’saddition. Thefollowing requires:

•itiszoned for commercial use;

•itisanarea in which asignificant proportion of the lots abut aroad accessible to the public generally;

•itconsists of at least two separate buildings on at least two separate and adjoining lots;

•itis an area in which asignificant proportion of the buildings areshops

If the council has approved the installation of pokies at the Kyneton venues, noting the close similarities between these venues and the one at Romsey,I find it hard to understand how the rules can bend depending on the location. We must seek consistent planning approvals to ensure growth and transparency for years to come.

Astart but falls short

Regional VictoriansOpposed to Duck Shooting inc.

About 30 wetlandshave been closed to shooting due to the presence of threatened species.

But Indigenous culture, residents’ mental health and wellbeing, public safety,and social/economic impacts have been completely disregarded.

Regional Victorians Opposed to Duck Shooting inc welcomed the closure of the 32 wetlands to protect threatened species, but the Victorian government has ignored evidence put to it, to close asmall list of additional waterways for other “critically important” reasons.

We recently submitted to the Minister, alist of 26 public duck-shooting sites it requested be closed not just for the presence of threatened species, but for aboriginal culture, proximity to residents, and public health/safety concerns.

Six of these requests have been fully granted and two partially,onthe basis of protecting threatened species. However, none were granted on the basis of Indigenous culture, proximity to residents, or health/safety or social/economic reasons.

Our question is this, how many tens of thousands of Victoria’spublic waterways do less than half of one per cent of the population who liketoshoot birds, need to be able to shoot on? And what is the mental, physical, social and economic cost to everyone else?

Shooting hampers tourism and more popular (and financially beneficial) pastimes such as boating, fishing and birdwatching. Incessant gunfire fromduck shooters’ shotguns is audible within three kilometres –a nuisance (legal term)that has an adverse impact on people’smental health as well as their ability to earn aliving. Eco-tourism businesses are forcedtoclose. Shift workers cannot sleep. People cannot work from home. Farmers cannotattend their crops, irrigation pumps nor stock, for fear of being shot. Ammunition (sometimes lead) lands on rooves which collect water supplies. Feedback from regional communities was critical, as no cost-benefit analysis has ever been done by authorities.

Similarly,only two risk assessments have ever been done and both of those wetlands were closed to shooting (in 2019) as aresult.

We are appalled the government is not heeding community feedback, nor taking public health and safety more seriously

Closing anumber of waterways to shooting would go along way towards ensuring the regulator can actually perform its job and monitorthe shooting, that nearby residents and landowners’ rights are protected, and that tourism could thrive in regional areas where it’sneeded most.

As most native bird shooting occurs on private land, removing these 26 public sites from the shooting listdoes not restrict the shooters’recreation. Butitdoes benefit the wider community,significantly

PETCARE

Dogshavemorepedigree,but catsprovehealthier

What makes abetter pet, adog or cat?

The debate isasold as time.

When it comes to domestic pets it seems Australians are quite particular about their preferred breed of dog but will pretty much love any type of cat.

Pet insurance provider Budget Direct has released data revealing that the top five most popular dogs in Australia in 2023 are all pedigree breeds, while four of the most popular cat varieties are of mixed parentage. Cavoodles, border collies, labrador retrievers, golden retrievers and maltese crosses are our five most popular dogs and are all pedigree breeds, while the domestic short-hair cat, domestic medium-hair cat, the tabby and the domestic long-hair cat are among the top five most popular cats with the ragdoll being the only pedigree cat breed to make the list.

Budget Direct’schief growth officer, Jonathan Kerr,saidthatdespite mostly not being pedigree, cats were proving to be the healthiest.

“Data from over 14,000 entries into our BudPet quiz has ranked cats healthier and having better diets,” he said.

The data collated the enquiry responses to rank each pet on arange of areas.

When it came to diet almost 19 per cent of the 3,683 cats received aperfect score with the right amount of wet and dry food and

Are you feeding livestock enough?

Agriculture Victoria is advising livestock owners to assess their livestock feed situation, as failing to provide proper and sufficient feed to livestock is an offence under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986.

AV's senior officer of animal welfare, Morgan Cassell, said producers needed to make appropriate decisions regarding their livestock and ability to provide adequate feed.

Livestock owners and managers should ask:

–what are the nutritional requirements for the class and number of livestock Ikeep?

–how much feed do Icurrently have on offer and is it meeting my livestock’senergy and protein requirements?

–how much supplement feed do Ineedto be feeding?

–will Ihave enough? Will Ibeable to source more?

–what alternative options do Ihave; agistment, destocking?

"If you aren’t sure of any of the answers to these questions, you need to seek advice or do your research," Ms Cassell said.

For information on feeding livestock visit www.feedinglivestock.vic.gov.au

When

combination of preferred food type including quality bought food and home cooked meals. Dogs were slightly behind the cats with 16 per cent of 10,474 dogs obtaining aperfect score.

When it came to their health, cats again outscored the dogs with just under 45 per cent of cats obtaining aperfect score, beating the dogs of which 43.7 per cent recorded aperfect score.

Mr Kerr said the health score reflected anumber of things including the animal’s heritage, vaccinations, grooming and veterinary checkups.

“One area where neither pet scored as well as we hoped was in their physical habits including how often they were walked, how much social time they had with other cats or dogs and how much time they spent inside and outside the house,” he said.

When it came to habits only 2.6 per cent of cats obtained aperfect score and just 0.3 per cent of dogs.

“What the data is telling usisthat you can’t expect an animal to behealthier because it is apedigree. All animals need the right balance of quality diet, medical maintenance andphysical exercise.”

And asfor what makes the best pet –dog or cat? The debate continues.

it comes to domestic pets it seems Australians are quite particular about their preferred breed of dog but will pretty much love any type of cat.

Covering

The Compost Conversation YIMBY,expanding

As YIMBY dives into its third year of operating, we continue to explore how to best be of service to our community of people, microbes and soil.

This column is usually about composting skills, this week we zoom out and reflect on what YIMBY is up to, and how you might be involved.

Since late 2021 we have been very active; collecting food scraps from households and turning it into great compost and supporting a growing community of composters.

YIMBY composters work really hard to hone their craft and to feed the teeny microbes just what they need, to nurture new life into soil and grow food. The gifts given to YIMBYcomposters are; great compost! Belonging to avibrant community of people; other composters andtheir neighbours, and the skills they learn and share.

"On the surface this project is about keeping food waste out of our binsand landfill, recycling and creating acircular economy.But like the invisible microbiome that is contained in acompost heap this project is cooking up so much more," says Gabby (composter 2021-2023).

Ilka reflects; "During the last floods,Iwas able to text everyone on my list, ask if they were okay,itfelt so good, knowing we could reach out to each other "

This year,YIMBY is increasing our team ofcomposters, who in turn will connect with their neighbours. Through acarefully designed training program, followed by ashort apprenticeship, we aim toteach the skills needed and provide hands-on experience tosupport new YIMBY composters.

Wewelcome all new enthusiastic composters; to come along to our training and sign up to be aYIMBY composter,and, at the moment, we are specifically seeking people to join existing compost clusters active within Castlemaine. We have learnt that building on existing clusters of composters provides great support for new composters and allows YIMBY to be present in whole areas of the township. At this time, we are specifically looking for people to join existing compost clusters in: The West End, Norwood Hill and North Castlemaine (beyond Berkeley Street.) Might this be you?

YIMBY aims to support 30 composters by the end of the year,collecting from around 500 households, we’d love to have you join us! We are supported by The Hub Foundation, The High Williamson Foundation, an anonymous donor,The Good Op Shop, MountAlexander Shire Council, The Wararack Initiatives and so many others, most importantly our composters and the microbes they nurture.

–Lucy Young works with Yes In My Back Yard, (YIMBY), acommunity-scale composting initiative in Castlemaine and surrounds. Sign up, or book into the April workshop at yimbycompost.com or send questions or comments to hello@yimbycompost.com

in 2024

Site inspections

EPAVictoria is joining forces with Macedon Ranges Shire Council and warning construction businesses that there will be some surprise visits to local construction sites this week.

The EPAwill work with council to ensure builders, developers and construction workers are meeting their safety, environmental and building compliance obligations.

The EPAisfocusing inspections on construction site management, particularly dust, sediment run offand waffle pods, which are too often allowed to escape site boundaries.

Council will focus on ensuring requirements are being met for building sites under council’sCommunity Local Law 2023, including secure site fencing, suitable refuse and sanitary facilities, and asset protection measures.

"EPAislooking for typical building site pollution that can cause offsite impacts like dust, contaminated stormwater,sediment, paper and plastic packaging, and newcomers like polystyrene scraps from the

wafflepods used when laying concrete," said EPAnorth west regional manager Paul Ratajczyk.

“Where businesses are ready to do their best we provide advice, but our priority is the environment, and we can step up to official notices or fines if necessary

"We’ll also increase awareness of the General Environmental Duty and environmental laws that apply to the construction and demolition industry,toprevent harm to human health and the environment.

“Wewant the local construction industry to be aware that at anytime during the week, we could be dropping in. We will use our powers to enforce compliance, but we hope we don’t have to act.

“Council is committed to ensuring our environment is protected and that builders operating in the Macedon Ranges are abiding by our local laws. We’ll continue to collaborate with other authorities –such as the EPA– to enforce compliance and improve understanding,” said MRSC's director of environment and planning, Rebecca Stockfeld.

In Kyneton’smost-loved boulevard is this stunning home that has been recently updated and extended.

Circa 1903, Linden was built most likely at asimilar time as when the famous english oaks at the Paris end of Wedge Street were planted. Entering the property you instantly notice the original features, anod to the past yet have been beautifully preserved. Among those are the etched glass windows, classic arched hallway with baltic pine timber floors and 11’high pressed metal ceilings. The newly built extension is sympathetic yet brings the property into the 21st century with stunning effect. Taking full advantage of the north orientation with oversized windows and tranquil garden vistas, the classic contemporary kitchen, which is serviced by the butler’spantry,overlooks the living and dining area as doors lead you outside to the wrap around expansive bluestone terrace. The added bonus is the studio, perfect home office or space for friends and family to stay.There is alarge workshop/garage and additional multiple car

This mid-century gem combines classic charm with contemporary comforts, providing ahaven that caters for every facet of family life. With its sprawling layout, both indoors and outdoors, this home promises an abundance of space for all to enjoy

Step into the heart of the home where a modern-country kitchen awaits. It is perfectly equipped for culinary enthusiasts with timber benchtops, dishwasher and agas cooktop.

The inviting open dining space integrates with the living room where awood heater and reverse-cycle air conditioner provide year-round comfort.

Catering for large families, there is also an additional family room offering agreat multipurpose space.

The home has four generously sized bedrooms, the main includes aprivate ensuite

and further down the hallway afamily bathroom with separate toilet.

Outside, the decked entertaining areas and apaved private courtyard provide the ideal backdrop for alfresco dining and social gatherings.

Alarge studio/ workshop space adds versatility offering an ideal spot for creative pursuits, ahome office, or ahobbyist’shaven.

Venture further to the leafy rear garden, a serene retreat that invites relaxation and outdoor enjoyment.

The practicality of acarport adds the finishing touch, all set behind aprivate front fence.

Astones throw from the Wesley Hill recreation reserve, bakery and Saturday morning market, the popular location provides easy access to the CBD of Castlemaine making it an ideal setting for abalanced and enjoyable lifestyle.

Rob Waller |0418571 130 Blasi Mulholland |0417311 733

If it is location that you want when purchasing afamily home, this house is situated in the heart of the traditional grid of the town, only four blocks up from the Town Hall, while being just the right distance from Barker Street to avoid any traffic noise.

This solid brick home is one of the town’soldest and best preserved buildings from the Goldrush era dating back to 1859. It was built by master craftsman, Joseph Narll, as his own home.

The Pyrenees flagstone verandah presents views across the town and out to Mount Franklin. The seemingly endless north-facing cottage garden to the rear of the house has been raised and restored to its former glory

The house offers the choice of four fully operational fireplaces and Scandinavian-made slow combustion stoves together with newly installed Mitsubishi multi-split systems delivering heating and cooling to all bedrooms and living areas.

The front bedrooms are constructed with typical Victorian grandeur with 12 foot high

River valley views

The appeal of this property is as much about its surroundings, with apicturesque dam and far-reaching views of the Coliban River Valley,setting abeautiful backdrop. At the end of the winding driveway,a magnificent federation-style home takes centre stage on the 5.22 hectares (almost 13 acres).

Crafted from recycled brick and featuring awraparound verandah clad in timber,stepping onto the deck feels like an open invitation to pause and reflect –a temptation that’shard to resist. At the rear of the home the structure widens to create abig outdoor dining area –the perfect locale to swing in ahammock or sip a glass of wine on abreezy summer night.

Inside, it’sa home that captures the essence of generous living, perfect for families wanting both space and quiet corners of solitude. The open-plan living area, flooded by natural light, centres around agas log fire. The layout accommodates dining, lounging, formal sitting and the kitchen, however,isasflexible as you want it to be, limited only by your furniture choices.

Abay window draws your gaze outside, aconstant reminder of the beautiful setting.

The kitchen, asocial hub with an oversized L-shaped bench, invites gatherings and heart-to-heart

conversations.

The butler’spantry becomes your secret weapon, this clever space will be your go-to for keeping everything organised and ready for the next round of lively gatherings. It connects to the laundry,ensuring practicality and offering storage for all your hosting essentials.

Speaking of gatherings, with five to six bedrooms and two bathrooms, there’splenty of room for family, guests, ahome office or maybe even aden or craft room. The master suite, with awalk-in robe and ensuite, is aprivate retreat almost double the size of the other bedrooms.

At the end of the hallway,a double garage adds a practical touch, making it easy to bring in groceries and spacious enough to fit agym.

And let’snot forget the property’sinfrastructure –two machinery sheds, achicken run, five paddocks with day stalls and ‘bounce back’ fencing keeps livestock both safe and contained.

The home paddock, wrapped in snake-proof fencing, ensures astress-free zone for family and pets. In every little detail, this property displays thoughtful design, promising awonderful lifestyle.

Seewhatthe othersdon’t

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When it comes to property,with view.com.au you see all.

ReAlwaysmembered..

In loving memory of Norma Hannah Richardson 1930 -2024

We are saddened to announce that Norma passed on Easter Sunday. Much lovedmother of Paul,Stevenand Shane beloved mother in lawof Cathi, Glynis and Polly Cherished grandmotherto Hayden, Trent, Kelly, Jessica, Ben, Emily and Zoe and great grandmother of Isla, Caleb,Zac, Alexandria, Georgia, Harriet, Miles Oliver and Austin.

A life sobeautifully lived

Karen Clark

The world lost an amazing woman, Karen Elizabeth Clark, who passed awayat Castlemaine Hospital on 4th April 2024.

She wasloved and adored by many. Abeautiful mother,friend, daughter and sister

She nurtured and looked out forthe animals in the bush and fiercely lovedher dogs and cats

She is known forher intellect, pragmatism, generosity,her value forjustice and pure kindness Karen will be missed butnever forgotten.

Mayshe rest in peace

Aprivate funeral will be held. To leave apersonal message, please visit Karen’stribute page on the website of Mount Alexander Funerals

Castlemaine 5470 5951

Always Remembered...

Mervyn Dowrick

LUCAS(Carter) -Evelyn"Jean" 30.03.1929 -05.04.2024

Passedaway peacefully aged 95 yearsatRMBegg Aged Care Dearlyloved wifeofStan (dec) Daughter of Keith(dec)and Hilda (dec) Carter Sister of Gwen (dec) and Ronand sister-in-law to Mac (dec)and Greta. Much lovedMother andMother-in-lawof Markand Roxanne,Joanne and Daniel, Graeme and Dawn.

Cherished grandmother of Rachael, Kain, Matthew, Samuel, Alana and Belinda and partners Treasuredgreat grandmotherof Dylan,Trent, Cailin, Gracie, Wilfred, Isla, Theodore andRemy. She will stayloved and remembered in everyway Reunited withDad Nowatpeace and in the presenceof The Lord she loved.

KN277716/L

AFuneral Service forMervyn Dowrick will be held in the Church of Christ, BlakeleyRoad,Castlemaine on Monday15thApril at 1.30pm

Private cremationtofollow.

To join us at the service via livestream please visit Merv’s tribute page on the website of Mount Alexander Funerals

Castlemaine 5470 5951 KN277714/L

KN277712/L

Supporting clients and participants in their homes means youare one-on-one with them. Youcan help connect clients to their community throughactivities,and assist to maintaindignity by providing personalcare.You cansupport people to livehealthyhappy lives

We are looking forpeople who are genuinely passionate about caring forour eldersand those living withadisability in the Mt Alexander Shire Youhaveexcellent communicationskillsand able to build rapport.

-CertIII or higherinaged care/disability essential.

-Noqualification required forcleaningrole

-Reliable car with licence and insurances

-Above award ratespaid

-Great work lifebalance

We are growingand want youtogrowwith us

If this soundslikeyou, please send your resume to Chris Nobleatchris@criss.com.au

PRIMARY TEACHER PART-TIME

We are seeking apart-timetalented andenthusiastic teacher to join our dynamic team in lower Primary. Smallclass sizes.Position available for upto 3daysper week (negotiable). Principal: StevenNicholas 89 Main Road, CampbellsCreek Vic 3451 (3 km southofCastlemaine) admin@olivet.vic.edu.au 0354723817 Application Form andPositionDescription are available under employmenttab www.olivet.vic.edu.au. Applications willbereviewedas theyare submitted.Interviews and offers mayoccur prior to the closingdate

APPLICATIONS CLOSE ON THURSDAY 11TH APRIL 1PM

All potentialemployees must comply withthe Child Safety Codeof

Town &District

GOLFresults

CASTLEMAINE

Rob Prendergast opened up asix-shot lead after the first round of the 54-hole men’s championship on Saturday.

Prendergast shot an immaculate 71-269 to be the day’s overall winner as well.

His 71 gives the other main contenders something to chase, with Kane Clack in second place with 77, followed by Jason Thompson, Matt O’Brien and Ross Bottomley all 78, and Klai Jerman 79.

Neil Webster shot 82-12-70 to win the day’s B-grade award, and he is six shots clear of Vin Welsh and Will Dobson in the championship.

In C-grade, Wayne Toohey and Jason Glenister are co-leaders after each fired 9419-75, the former winning the grade prize on acountback.

Leon Thomas and Darren Gervasoni were NTP winners.

Last Thursday’s stableford went to C-grader Jason Lester (21) with 39 points, including two birdies.

Les Prendergast (6) topped A-grade with 37 points, and Vin Walsh (14) was the B-grade winner with 35.

Big hitter Kevin Adams won the ninehole event with 18 points, on acountback from Jo Ralston (37).

GISBORNE

Afield of 146 men and 12 ladies graced amagnificent course for the stroke and monthly cup competitions on Saturday.

Stuart Lay didn’t lie down and won the cup and B-grade on acountback with anett 67.

Shannon 'Noll' Dickson said, “What About Me”, and topped A-grade with anett 69.

Mauro Callegari, who is not from Canada, led in the bandits’ grade with equal best tally of nett 67.

The women’s compwinner was Louise Le Lievre with anett71.

Last Wednesday 33 ladies competed for the monthly medal and silver spoon.

The medal and A-grade went to Jenny O’Connor with anett 74.

Bridgette Marsh, who grew up in Bacchus, topped B-grade with anett75, and Moon 'Flash' Gordonlanded the silver spoon.

KYNETON

Jing Biscocho took home the Palmer, Stevens &Rennick sponsored monthly medal on Saturday with two shots to spare on the field.

AC-grader, Biscocho fired afine 88-2266, with the next best score coming from B-grade winner Nathan Thompson with 84-16-68.

Scott Murphy topped A-grade with 76-776 from Harrison Huntley 78-8-70.

Visitor Sian Harding ledinthe ladies with 102-30-72, and also landed the Sizzlin Sensations monthly meat raffle.

NTPs went to Thompson, Connor Munro, Martin Webber, Colin Hudgson and Greg Purvis (also super pin).

Congratulations to steadily improving Valme Smoors on taking out her first monthly medal.

Smoors also topped B-grade last week with 111-39-72 last Tuesday, ahead of Marian Orr 112-34-78.

Kylie Munro 88-14-76 edged out Joan Gibbs 98-22-76 in A-grade, with Marg Scoble and Jane Stanley NTP.

Good luck to the ladies in their first pennant match on Monday.

Wednesday stableford: Ross Carbery (29) led the way with 38 points from Terry Kot (11) and Peter Walh (15) both on 36.

The popular RobMacRae sponsored Par 3Day is on Sunday, April 28, and intending participants are advised tolodge their names with Captain David at the club or by phoning 0438 865 566. Don’t miss out.

LANCFIELD

Saturday’s two-person Ambrose produced atight finish.

Jack Waldron (20) and Aaron Andrews

(17) were the winners with 62.75.

Denis Davenport (7) and Malcolm Ive (20) were close up with 63.25, and Bert and Greg Parks took third place with 63.75.

It was noted Peter McGill hitalive birdie with his tee shot on the 5th; the unfortunate bird did not survive!

MOUNT MACEDON

Alarge field turned out for the New Gisborne Dental House Mug o’ the Month event last Wednesday.

The winner was Jenny Svendsen (pictured) who improvedonher previous week’s outing to land the major prize.

Another Ladies Get Into Golf graduate, Kellie Spry, also acquitted herself admirably.

Club captain, Mick Doyle, played to the course par of67.

Overall results:

A–Mick Doyle (6) 42 points, from Ian Flannery (9) 38.

B–Jenny Svendsen (32) 44 points, from Kelly Spry (40) 43.

ROMSEY

Romsey hospitality was at its best for Dalhousie District’s Romsey Bowl on Thursday.

The Seymour trio of Paula Britton, Shelley Dowling and Glenda Woods excelled with 96 points, eight clearofthe runnersup.

Kelley Scott (TJ Scott and Son) was pleased to present the trophies.

DDGA president Mary Campbell (Broadford) won A-grade with 38 points, Jen Hunter (Woodend) topped B-gradewith 35, and Wendy Krapywyni (Goonawarra) was the best in C-grade.

All fairways and greens were alittle softer on Saturday after heavy rain during the week, andmanyballs picked up mud.

Shaun Scales hadthe day’sbesttally of 96-25-71,ahead of JohnFreestone 10229-73 and Sherif Abdel-Sayed 105-31-73.

Algie Mitchell Shield quarter final results were: Andrew Laing (0) dRob Rea (1) 6-4, Steve Wilkins (3) dBob McLennan (0) 6-4, Mal Mottram (0) dZac Scales (26) 2-up, and Shaun Scales had awalkover against Mick Nicholls Snr.

Last Wednesday’s stableford: 18 holes –Steve Wilkins (18) 33 points, Luke Lyons (6) 32, David Jones (23) 30. Nine holes –Kath Jekabsons (34) 20 points, fro Beryl Cole (28) 17 and Lorraine Robb (43) 16.

The Easter Monday Ambrose was played in challenging conditions, but scores were very good.

Dylan Harris/Mitch Thomas excelled with 60.75, with Luke Lyons/Steve Wilkins 64 and Mick Squire/Mal Mottram/Keith Hocking 64.83.

NTPs went to Dean Kohler (2), Lyons (2) and Kohler had the longest drive.

TRENTHAM

Tim Ovenden was in fine form in the monthly medal event on Saturday.

He fired 87-22-65 to finish ahead of fellow C-grader Mervyn Harvey on 91-24-67.

Dale Height took the honours in A-grade with 71-4-67, and Robert Penrose wrapped up B-grade with 84-14-70.

The ladies competed for their second Saturday medal for the season, and Kirsten Jensen was the winner with 86-17-69.

Anthea Leary topped B-grade with 9323-70.

WOODEND

Wayne Sliwinski must have thought he had the April medal wrapped up on Saturday after shooting asuperb 65-6-59.

Not to be –hewas upstaged by Bgrader Andy Gregory who fired aremarkable 78-22-56!

Brilliant golf from both.

Wayne Paterson, Paul Jenke and Col Hunter all had nett 62s.

The play-off decider for the March medal went the way of Kevin Jones with afine 83-20-63.

Last Tuesday’s stableford was won by Matt Stevens (15) with 38 points, two ahead of Nick Allan and Brendan Cunningham.

Bill West

“Wecouldn’t be more excited for her future” was the summation from the Liam Howley stable after Infinity Imperial’sall the way win over 2000 metres at Pakenham on Thursday

Purchased for $900,000, the quality three-year-old filly is by Zoustar from Imperial Lass (NZ), and has been given plenty of time to mature. Ridden confidently by Winona Costin in aMaiden Plate, Infinity Imperial went to the front and never looked like being beaten, winning with 1.8 lengths to spare.

The filly started as a$9.50 chance, and the win capped offa great week for the Macedon Ranges stable.

Twodays earlier Howley-trained gallopers secured awin and three placings at Geelong.

In contrast to Infinity Imperial’swin, So YouThink filly Elegancia ($12) dropped out to the rear of the field in the fillies and mares Maiden Plate. Placed at her three previous outings, Elegancia appreciated the rise in distance to 1740m.

Jockey Billy Egan took her five wide and powered home in the straight, getting up toscore in aphoto finish.

Armed bowls is on

The Armed Vic’sorganisation is called on eligible lawn bowlers to consider takingpart in the State Armed bowling championships to be held at Warrnambool.

Previously the championships were conducted by Bowls Victoria. Armed Vic’spresident, Damien Riches, said men’sand women’ssinglesand pairs will be played (section play).

“Wewould like to spread the rod that these championships are on, and like to see as many arm bowlers as possible take up the challenge,” Riches said.

Team or single entries can be lodged, and there are certainly more bowlers using 'a stick' than there were some years ago.

Mr Riches can be contacted on 0419 536 257 or email bowlsforever@hotmail.com

Adamson. BEST: Romsey: HNotman APatersonPRomeril

MAdamsonAFlavelL Newnham

DIGGERS REST 4.4 8.8 9.10 12.13 (85)

LANCEFIELD 1.3 1.3 2.3 2.3 (15)

GOALS:Lancefield: ARichardt LLyons BEST: Lancefield: AShepherdley MHiggins APacers DReynolds BStewart C Randall U19.5s

WALLAN 4.4 5.8 7.12 11.12 (78)

ROMSEY 1.3 2.5 4.7 6.8 (44)

GOALS:Wallan:MDatson4 SLawrence2 TMathiesonA

MooreJStudd MRussell LYoung Romsey: PHenderson 2CJedwab MTucker MMilburnLSegrave. BEST: Wallan: MDatsonJKennedy DColdrey AMooreR Whittingham C Fowler Romsey: JDixon MTucker NJohnston PHenderson WLucas MMilburn GISBORNE GIANTS- 10.13 (73) RIDDELL

Sunday

The day also saw the Magpie Under 18 Women'sFootball side make their debut against Sandhurst.

Results were mixed as the Magpies new Under 18 team battled without abench against the fresh-legged Dragons. The team heaped on the pressure reducing the opposition to 10 scoring shots while scoring five of their own. Castlemaine Goal kick-

GOALS:Talbot:A Scott 2JAtkins

ers were Chloe Butcher 2, Olivia Muscat, Tegan Barry and Lori Whaley

The Magpies Senior Women meanwhile hit out from the first bounce, playing their smoothest football to date to win by 117points. Castlemaine 22.2 (134) to Sandhurst 2.5 (17). Goalkickers were Tiahna Cochrane 7,Eloise Gretgrix 6, Tiffany Bradley 4, Aisling Tupper 2, Bronte Ashworth, Rachael Stubbings andMaeve Tupper CFNC takesonWoorinen for Round 2this Sunday April 14 at Camp Reserve. The Under 18s kick offat 11.15am and the Women at 1pm.

Shield winner

Gisborne District Cricket Association’s Beattie Shield for the 2023-2024 season has been awarded to Gisborne Cricket Club.

The Gisborne club, which went through the season unbeaten to win the McIntyre 1sts premiership, received 119points in the shield count.

Runner-up was Aintree Cricket Club on 115, with Lancefield third on 101.

Romsey Cricket Club won the association’sannual Kookaburra ‘Spirit of Cricket’ award.

Valuable player

Kim Bessell has won Gisborne District Cricket Association’sWomen’sLeague top individual award for the second season in succession.

Bessell polled 14 votes in the most valuable player voting to finish two clear of Sarah Bamford (Bacchus Marsh), Brooke Jeffrey (Lancefield) and Taylor Logie (Kilmore), with Gisbone’sRuby Watts next on 11 votes.

Captain of premiers Darley,Bessell was also appointed captain of the women’steam of the year

Most valuable player Kim Bessell is pictured with presenter Doug McDonald at the GDCA’s presentation night.

Magpies selected in ‘The Carlton Draft’

Castlemaine Football Netball Club is thrilled to have been announced as one of five lucky Victorian clubs that will be granted apick to select an AFL footy legend to run out with their senior team as part of the 2024 ‘The Carlton Draft’.

The star-studded lineup for the third annual 'Carlton Draft' crop in 2024 consists of Triple premiership Tigers captain Trent Cotchin; Four-time flag hero across the Hawks and Cats and 2022 Norm Smith Medallist Isaac Smith; AFL Hall of Famer and 2000 Bombers premiership player Matthew Lloyd; Former Blues and Giants player and popular podcaster Dylan Buckley; and Saints legend and 287-game AFL player Leigh Montagna.

The group comprises more than1100 AFL games and eight AFL premierships collectively

The other four clubs selected to participate in the draft include the Ballan Blues of the Central Highlands, the Toora Magpies of mid-Gippsland, Old Collegians FNC of the Warrnambool District Football Netball League and the Bunyip Bulldogs who hail from the West Gippsland Football

Netball competition.

Across the first two seasons of the campaign, The Carlton Draft matchdays have created unforgettable memories for players, coaches and local communities, with appearances from footy legends drawing huge numbers through the gates and assisting the struggling clubs who need it most.

This year’scampaign saw over 175 clubs nominating for achance to be apart of the action in 2024.

Castlemaine Football Netball Club president Caleb Kuhle said it was agreat little surprise to get the nod from the Carlton Draft team after such agreat start to the season for the club on Good Friday

"Last year we were shortlisted for the program but did not make it into the final cut, but to make it this year brings alot of excitement for not just the club but the whole town," Kuhle said.

"Tohave something like this to look forward to during the season is ahuge spark for the young players but also footy lovers of the town to get down and watch."

The Carlton Draft Commissioner,Jonathan Brown, thinks this draft crop might be the most talented yet, and anticipates some huge performances from the former stars.

“We’ve had some big names across the first two seasons of the campaign including Nathan Buckley,Eddie Betts and Alex Rance, but Ithink this draft class may be the most talented we’ve seen,” Brown said.

“You’ve got the opportunity to put Lloydy one out in the square on alocal full-back, Cotch and Joey [Leigh Montagna] to put straight in the guts, or outside stars in Smithy and Dylwho will run rings around opposition teams.

“Any of these players lining up for your local team will be atantalising prospect, not only bringing ahuge boost to clubs on the field, buthopefully bringingplenty of foot traffic through the gates and cash behind the canteen and bar.”

The Carlton Draft draft night –where the participating clubs select their player –will be held at The Pub at Crown Melbourne in late April, with matchdays to commence from late May

Falcons readytosoarin2024

The Mount Alexander Falcons celebrated their season launch on Saturday night. And it was lucky there were afew players missing from the evening as the stage was at capacity with the jumper presentations.

The Falcons are scheduled to play their first match of the 2024 Riddell District Football League season against Romsey this Friday night, April 12, at Romsey from 7.30pm.

Club president Alana Wearne addressed the group proudly and celebrated the players, the committee, the club and the community –somuch has happened in such a short period of time and the club is going from strength to strength.

Coach Cheez (Louise Ainscough) presented the jumpers and announced a strong leadership team –Meredith Johnson and Sophie Foster,Tadpole Nicole McIvor and Jesse Boylan are looking forward to another great season and with aplaying squad of 38 it’sa big year ahead.

The enthusiasm was high and the vibe unstoppable.

It was great to hear from some dedicated sponsors and great allies of the team. They each reiterated the importance of strong role models for future generations of women and gender diverse people.

“You can’t be what you can’t see,” said Jacqueline Brodie-Hanns from the Shedshaker –Taproom.

Jaqueline connects with the Falcons participating in the outreach program run by the Law Advocacy Centre for Women out at Tarrengower Prison and is excited about the partnership with the Falcons, hinting at the upcoming launch of aFalcon Ginger Beer

Jem Selig Freeman from Life Butter has been with the Falcons from the start and was encouraging and proud to be on board again.

Dan Pettingill, director from Firetail Environments, is anew partnership with the Falcons helping to kickstart the juniors who join the nest later this year

He spoke of privilege of playing and wanting to be included in something special that his four-year-old daughter could be part of as the family is AFL/W mad.

Katie McEachran from the Maldon District and Community Bank said every dollar of profit banked with them goes to grants for the community like sponsoring awesome clubs and events.

The Falcons are thankful for their growing list of sponsors –every dollar helps the club be more sustainable play-

ing footy and the contributions ensure the community programs continue and growth of the club by bringing on the juniors.

After cutting of the season launch

rainbow cake provided by Grist Bakery in Wesley Hill the formalities were over and the team seemed pumped to start their season.

Good luck Falcs!

The Falcons are ready to soar in 2024 and are proudly pictured at Saturday evening’s jumper presentation.

The Carlton Draft Commissioner Jonathan Brown (centre) thinks the 2024 crop may be the mosttalentedyet! Featuring (L-R) Leigh Montagna, Trent Cotchin, Matthew Lloyd, IsaacSmith and Dylan Buckley. Who will line up for the Magpies in 2024?

‘Riddell stronger’

“Riddell A-grade netballers are alot stronger this year.”

That’sthe firm opinion of Macedon and RDFNL coach Katie Clarke, after the A-grade encounter at Tony Clarke Reserve on Saturday

Last season, Riddell lost to WoodendHesket in extra time in the grand final.

Clarke said the Bombers, under new coach Emily Ktona, had plenty of depth.

Riddell defeated Macedon 56-35 on Saturday and the Bombers are now looking forward to taking on Kyneton this Saturday

However,Clarke said there were legitimate excuses for the score blowout.

“Wewere down three or four regulars through illness, and can field amuch stronger side as the season progresses” Clarke said.

Riddell’sscorers were Meridith Ball 29 and Shelby Holter 27, while Christine Brinkuis 19 and Chloe Williams 16 scored for the Cats.

This Saturday,Riddell defenders will be looking to curtail Kyneton shooter Claire Oakley in particular

Macedon travels to play Woodend-Hesket in what should be aclose encounter

The thriller was at Wallan, with the Magpies holding offRomsey 44-41.

Topscorers were Hope Hamilton (R) with 33, and Maere Donegan (W) 31.

The Magpies won all four matches against the Redbacks, three in very close finishes.

The inclusion of former Jamaican international Shimona Jok will surely lift the Redbacks.

Lancefield A-grade was thrilled to defeat last season’swooden-spooner Diggers Rest 54-33 –agood start at Tigerland for former Macedon coach Ciara Stewart.

Scores in other grades were:

B: Macedon 34 (E. Petherick 21, C. Brinkhuis 7) lost to Riddell 50 (E. Rodger 21, H. Brown 17, K. Holter 12); Wallan 42 9S. Nunan 28, G. Marsh 14) dRomsey 36 (H. Hamilton 19, M. Thompson 10; Lancefield 73 (T.Hammond 58, A. Chibnall 14).

C: Wallan 37 (G. Dunbar 19, A. Hazelwood-Smith 11)dRomsey 10; Macedon 38 (S. Eastman 22, B. Barry 16) lost to Riddell 46 (K. Wallace-Kilbane 25 , T. Ploeg 12); Lancefield 23 l(M. Keogh 10) lost to Diggers Rest 34 (T.Goodwin 26).

19&Under: Wallan 32 dRomsey31; Lancefield 42 dDiggers Rest 34; Macedon 25 (I. Moyes 14) lost to Riddell 48 (K. Ditcham 24, H. Brown 23).

Bonanza of women’s football

The Riddell League’sRookie Me 2024 women’sfootball competition begins this weekend.

There are seven clubs represented, with the first match between Romsey and Mount Alexander Falcons to be played at Romsey Park at 7.30pm this Friday

The other two first round games are on this Saturday Kyneton women, who went through last season undefeated, will be at home to Melton in a2pm encounter at the Kyneton Showgrounds.

The final match is at Gilbert Gordon Oval, Woodend, at 4.15pm on Saturday Woodend-Hesket will be at home to Macedon, last season’srunners-up. Lancefield, newcomers to the women’s competition, has the bye.

The 2024 home and away season will extend over 14 rounds.

‘Winning ugly’ okay

Bill West

“We won ugly today,” new Riddell football coach Arron Bray told his players after their 11-point victory over Macedon on Saturday.

The match was hard to rationalise overall, with just 14 goals being scored, and the Bombers establishing what proved to be a winning lead with afive-goal-to-onethird term.

There has been alot of pre-season hype around the league about Riddell being strong premiership prospects, and no doubt Bray –who previously coached Broadford and Rupertswood –will be keeping alid on any premature internal speculation at this early stage.

More will be known after this Saturday’s big Riddell versus Kyneton match at Bomberland.

There was an interested Kyneton presence at Tony Clarke Reserve for the Macedon versus Riddell encounter.

It was the annual PUKA-Up Cup match with the joint thoughts of both clubs and supporters on the importance of mentalhealth.

Riddell took home the Cup by winning the majority of football and netball matches on the day.

What did Macedon coach Al Meldrum think afterwards?

“We had eight of our Under 19.5s playing out there I’m pretty proud,” Meldrum said.

The return of quality player Matt Dick to the Cats was welcomed, and along with Hamish Govan (ex-Kyneton) he figured in the Cats’ best players.

In the first quarter, Macedon managed to shut Riddell down and establish atwo-goal lead.

Riddell prime mover, Dylan Tarczon, limped off early in the first term with a hamstring injury, which he felt was “not too bad”.

Aturnaround came in the second term, with goals at apremium, with scores tied 3.3 to 3.3 at the long interval.

Riddell’s confidence lifted with early third-term goals, and the Cats were under pressure to repel forward thrusts.

Several players ended up requiring medical attention, and it was Macedon that began to monopolise the ball as the clock ticked down in the last quarter.

The Bombers were content to hold possession at times, and actually failed to score at all for the term, causing some frayed nerves among supporters.

The 8.7 to 6.8 result was one the Bombers would surely take, and after agoodpreseason it may well be acase of the 'new' and 'old' players assimilating to become a

very well-drilled unit.

Riddell recruit Dean Galea was the top scorer with three goals.

ROMSEY’S BIG REVIVAL

The important Wallan versus Romsey match was extraordinary. The home side dominated the first half, then could not bounce back at all when the rejuvenated Redbacks staged an impressive third-term revival.

It has been nine seasons since Romsey last won at Wallan, and this breakthrough must add to the momentum for aclub celebrating its 150th year.

To kick seven second-half goals and restrict the shell-shocked Magpies to one was ahuge effort

The final score was 9.8 to 7.9, with veteran Chris Petroro, and speedsters Callum Sankey and Corey Pertzel named as the Redbacks’ best.

Some of Romsey’syounger brigade are very speedy, and coach Justin Sherman has plenty to work with, with avictory at home against Melton Centrals this Saturday a"must".

Wallan’s ace recruit is vastly experienced ruckmanChris Stewart, and he is likely to trouble all comers.

Gisborne Giants impressed in the Under 19.5s with arunaway 10.13 to2.3 victory against Riddell.

Riddell senior footballers opened the 2024 season with ahard-fought win over Macedon at Tony Clarke Oval on Saturday,with the Bombers receiving the PUKA Up Cup in the annual fundrauser between the two clubs.

Respective coaches Aaron ‘Skip’ Bray (Riddell) and Macedon’s Al Meldrum had plenty to reflect on after Saturday’s encounter.

Dylan Tarczon –the dynamo spent most of the match encouraging teammates after he came off injured very early in the match.

Tigers look to revitalise

Bill West

Last year’s 150th year celebrations helped turn the fortunes of Lancefield Football Netball Club around from asomewhat low ebb, and the rebuilding campaign is continuing this season.

“We are working really hard to get the community behind us,” Tigers’ president Joe Schembri said at areunion of past players, coaches and volunteers on Saturday, ahead of the opening round senior football match at home to Diggers Rest –reigning football premiers in the Riddell League.

At the end of the day there were some positives for Tiger followers to reflect upon.

With new coach Ciara Stewart at the helm, Lancefield’s A-grade netball side defeated 54-33 Diggers Rest 73-39 in an encouraging performance.

Ace shooter Tarnee Hammond scored 23 goals, Shanae Brundell 16 and Darcee Ellard 15. Earlier in the day the irrepressible Hammond scored 58 goals –more than any other player in the round –for Lancefield’s winning B-grade lineup.

While the C-graders lost by 11 goals, the 19 &Under Tigers accounted for Diggers Rest 42-34.

On the football field, Lancefield seniors turned in agreat first half, trailing the highly rated Diggers Rest by just 10 points at half time; the visitors asserted themselves in the

second half to win 14.10 to 7.3.

Diggers Rest 2023 premiership coach Jamie Lobb rates his side as “slightly stronger” than last season, while Lancefield coach Tim Bannan said four regulars were sidelined, and he certainly hoped for improvement this season.

The Tigers’ best were Rhys Barber, Harry Behan, Lachlan Giles, Riley O’Meara, and Tom Waters.

In the Reserves, Diggers Rest won by 70 points, and the new U19s.5s went down by 49 points.

Schembri told the past players get-together, organised by Andrew McTrusty, that having the U19.5s and anew women’s football team this season were real steps forward.

Bannan summarised some of the positive recruitment moves the Tigers had made.

The merits of joining the ‘500 Club’ to support the Tigers this season were outlined.

BOOK STILL AVAILABLE

The special Lancefield Football Club 1873 –2023 book sold out last year, but has been reprinted with additions.

Vice-president Chris Dynon and Denis Graham said the quality of this book rated very highly against other historical sporting publications they had seen.

Graham, Lancefield Historical Society’s president and one of the key figures behind compiling the book, encouraged those present to spread the word among former and

current Lancefield FNC followers about the availability of this book.

He said interesting information continues to be provided, including the composition of and ground use by the former Emu Flat Football Club, which fielded ateamcomprising plenty of Lancefield players.

‘WEBBY’ ALIFE MEMBER

Lancefield FNC’s latest life member, Keith ‘Webby’ Webb, was presented with his life membership medallion and certificate at the get-together.

Life member Russell Pattinson made the presentation, amid applause, stating that 'Webby' was one of those quiet behindthe-scenes achievers who did not seek accolades. Yet his contributionstothe club and Lancefield Park over many, many years was well deserving of recognition, hence the club’s decision to honour him with life membership.

Pattinson related the expertise of ‘Webby’ in ground preparation, various repairs, and other time-consuming tasks, stating he was averyworthy recipient.

“I’m not getting any younger,” Webby responded, emphasising he certainly appreciated the life membership, and appealed for more volunteers to throw their weight behind the LFNC.

Summing up, Schembri said the club’s leadership wanted tosee the Tigers returning to something like their halcyon days.

Hartat RDFNL

Hugh Hart took up his role as operations manager at the Riddell District Football Netball League yesterday (Monday).

He fills the vacancy created when Aaron McLean departed in late March to take up anew role at Motorcycling Victoria.

Described by the league as “the standout applicant for the role”, Hart has spent the past two years in the AFL in talent operations, working with the Coates Talent League, VFL and VFLW, and the National Championships.

He also spent timeatthe Victoria Racing Club, and completed an ALK sports ready certificate 111 in Business.

Grace Bibby, the league’s media and netball manager, has been upgraded to general manager of operations.

She will manage the netball, media and events part of the enterprise, and also cross over into football.

RDFL games

Second round matches in the Riddell District Football League this Saturday are:

Riddell vKyneton.

Woodend-Hesket vMacedon.

Romsey vMelton Centrals.

Diggers Rest vWallan.

Lancefield abye.

BFNL games

The second part of Bendigo Football Netball League’sround one takes place this Saturday,April 13.

Kangaroo Flat vSandhurst.

Strathfieldsaye vSouth Bendigo.

Eaglehawk vGolden Square.

Gisborne the bye.

Note: Arevitalised Castlemaine defeated Maryborough easily in the one match played on GoodFriday

MCDFNL games

The Harcourt versus Carisbrook fixture is the drawcard in round one of the Maryborough Castlemaine District Football Netball League this Saturday

Trentham has the bye and will open itsseason on April 20 at home to Maryborough Giants.

The other matches this Saturday are:

Newstead vDunolly

Lexton vMaldon.

Navarre vCampbells Creek. Avoca vNatte Bealiba.

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15 Amber Rise, Kyneton

Modern Elegance

•Anexcitingopportunitytoown this stunning family home perfectlylocated in the heart of the vibrant Riverside Estate, Kyneton. This modern country four bedroom, twobathroom home offers you everything you coulddesirefor your family’s comfort andenjoyment.