Wildlifecarersacross the region areburning outamid increasing case loads and cost pressures, the Victorian Parliament'sinquiry into wildliferoad-strikehas heard.
Local wildlifecarerscalled forincreased funding opportunities and reimbursementprograms forwildliferescuers, driver education, and funding fora rangeofroad-strike prevention opportunities.
"Thereare so many pressures with the cost-of-living increasing,"Manfred Zabinskas, from Five Freedoms Animal Rescue, informed the panel at Bendigolast week.
"It'sbecome acritical problem. It's nota case of whether youwanttodoit—it'sthatyou can't. It's just thatbad.
"Thereare shelters thathavebeenoperating foryears thatare burning out and crashing, and thatexacerbatesthe problem forthe other remaining sheltersdownthe track thathavetotakeonalargernumberofcases."
Mr Zabinskas estimated that, in running his shelter,the consumables alone cost $46,000 over thepast 12 months.
Theconsumables he refers to areitems likeanimal food, milk, medical supplies and bedding. Adding fuel to theexpenses would bring thattotal to about $60,000.
Some of the hidden costs include car wear andtear, displaywarning signs, rescueequipment, protectivegear, training, licensing, firearms, and vetexpenses, and thatonly scratches the surface.
While cost-of-living expenses have increased, so toohas thedemand on volunteer rescuers, as developmentand
Inquiry hears of burn out
droughtpushes wildlifefurther out of the bush and onto roadsides, wildliferescuerssaid.
"Whatweare seeing locally arekangaroo mobs and wildlifebeing decimated,"hesaid.
"Wecan't keep on developing with no regardtowildlife damage. Thereclearly needs to be achangeofattitude."
RESCUE NEED INCREASING
Macedon Ranges WildlifeNetwork reported handling 2226 wildliferescue cases in 2022-23, and thatfiguregrew by 20 per cent in the next year.Volunteer rescuersnow respond to an averageof7.2 per cent daily
Thenetwork revealed increased stressorswerebehind at least eightmemberstaking astepbackfromtheir rolesin recent years. Thenetwork currently has 52 activemembers.
MRWN spokesperson Erin Ashmoretold the inquiry it wastime wildliferescuerswereacknowledged fortheir work and specialist skills.
"The volunteer model is no longer sustainable: volunteers areburning outand they areleaving the role," Ms Ashmore said.
"Volunteersare notpaid or reimbursed fortheir time, fuel, equipmentorother expenses. Only licensed shelters and foster carersare eligible forsome small grants, which do notcoverthe true expenses incurred.
"Long-term funding is essential. It's imperativethatwe recognise the yearsoftraining to do thatspecialist skill."
MRWN soughtchangeinthe form of increased funding opportunities forvolunteers, reimbursementprograms, investments through volunteer training and certification, support and recognition forveterinary partnerships, and improving multi-agency collaboration.
MORE CHANGE SOUGHT
Changing the waywildliferoad-strikeisrecorded wasa common theme and manysubmitterscalled fora centralised wildliferoad-strikedatabase.
Theinquiry heardthereare currently at least fiveseparatedatabases to do this, creating difficulties in collating data, using real-timemapping and accurately identifying wildlifehot-spots.
Theinquiry heardmoredrivereducation and responsibility wasneeded when it came preventingwildliferoad-strike.
Suggestionsfor improvements included: mandatory wildlifecollision reporting legislation within twohoursofan incident, astate-wide public education campaign fordrivers to promote empathyfor wildlifeand responsible driving, and speed reductions in known wildlifehot-spots.
Otherideas to emerge from MRWN'ssubmission were traumasupportfor affected motorists following wildlife road-strike, investmentininfrastructure such as fencing andlighting in wildlifehot-spots, and improving safety protocols.
MRWN also called forthe state governmenttofund and fast-track the Macedon Ranges wildlifedetection pilot, which involves motion-activated wildlifewarning signage, and other newtechnologies to deter wildliferoad-strike.
Department charged after riot assaults
WorkSafehas charged the DepartmentofJustice and Community Safety after ayouth justiceworker and severaloccupants were assaultedduring an incident at the Malmsbury Youth JusticeCentreinOctober 2023.
Thedepartmentfaces one charge under section21(1) of the Occupational Healthand Safety Actfor failing, so far as reasonably practicable, to provide andmaintain asafe working environment.
WorkSafealleges the departmentbreached section 21(2)(a) of the OHS Actby failing to reduce the risk of occupational violenceby providing and maintaining asafesystemofwork to preventunauthorised access to buildings and security gates.
Thedepartmentalsofaces one charge under section 23(1) of the OHS Actfor failing to ensurepeople other than workers weren’t exposed to health andsafety risks,sofar as reasonably practicable.
Thematterislistedfor afiling hearing at Kyneton Magistrates Court on MondayAugust 25, 2025.
AmyHume
Councilshamstrung, wildlife inquiry reveals
Newtechnologies and ideas have emerged to reducewildliferoad-strike, but councils are hamstrung by limited finances and autonomy, Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil says
"Residents want councils to act morequickly with moreresourcestodoa whole rangeof things: put in electronic responsivesignage, underpasses, overpasses and narrow roads,"chief executiveofficer Bernie O'Sullivan said.
"Ina rate-capping environment, we'vegot a really tightbudget.We're doing whatwecan, but we need help."
Thecomments were made during Mr O'Sullivan and manager of engineering and assetservices Daniel Grigson's presentation to the Victorian Parliament'sinquiry into wildlife road-strikeatBendigolast week.
MRSC urgedreforms to givecouncils more flexibility,moreresourcesand moretools to protect both wildlifeand people on roadways
Mr O'Sullivan said Macedon Ranges had one of the highest wildlifevehicle collisionrates in Victoria and the problem wasgrowing.
"Road-strikes in our shireare notonlyfrequent, they'reincreasingly dangerous,"hesaid.
"These collisions affect notjustwildlife, not just motorists, but also impact the broader community and theyare putting increasing pressureonour already stretched wildlifecares and volunteers.
"Animal strikes nowmakeupabout fiveper cent of all vehicle crashes locally,and disturbingly,Gisborne and Woodend were both named among the topfiveVictorian hot-spotsfor wildlifecollisions in 2023 (AAMI)."
Since2019, WildlifeVictoria has recorded
morethan 5000 nativeanimals struck by vehicles in the Macedon Ranges —afigure thought to under-representthe truescale of incidents, as manygounreported.
Between January last year to June 30 this year,MRSCcollected at least 750 animals from council-managed roadsides alone.
Developmentand droughtwereconsidered twoofthe biggest contributing factorsto animals venturing closer to roadsides as they search forfood and areas to relocate
Romseyand Gisborne were flaggedasthe twobig growth areas forthe Macedon Ranges and wherethe problem could increase accordingly
Mr O'Sullivan said council had integrated wildlifestrategy and safety into its Mobility and Road Safety Strategy 2023-2032 and was developing GeographicInformation System heat maps to target hot-spots.
However, seeking lowerspeed limitscan be aslowprocess thatdoesn't alwaysresult in change, and the council wantstosee this process reviewed.
"Councils cannotreducespeed limits in wildlifecorridorswithoutstate department approval, even when local risk is clear and evidence-based, and respectfully,I'd saythatis nota fast process,"hesaid
Mr O'Sullivan also highlightednew technologies the council wasinterestedtoexploreand funding gapsthatexist.
"Technologies such as responsivesignage, crossings and wildlifedetection systems, they're promising butthey'reout of reach formany councils without external funding or technical support,"hesaid "Westrongly support greaterinvestment in
research infrastructure andshared data platforms thatenable better state-wide responses."
Oneopportunity the MRSC is nowconsideringismobile variable messageflashing signage thatcan be placed in wildlifecorridorstogive driversadditional warning.
MRSC also flagged interest in trialling any newtechnologies emerging in signageand mapping such as real-time and infrared signage thathas provensuccessful in other parts of the world.
Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil CEOBernie O’Sullivan and managerofengineering and assetservices Daniel Grigson’s presentedtothe VictorianParliament’s inquiry into wildliferoad-strikeatBendigolastweek.
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Pianodestruction shocks
Maine Piano Guerrillas have expressed shock and disappointmentatthe wantondestruction of one of the pianos they placed in ap;ublic spaceaspartofthe 2025 Castlemaine FringeFestival.
MPG were contacted by MountAlexander ShireCouncil on August 7toreport thatthe Bauer German Piano placed in the Kennedy Street underpass had been vandalised Wednesdaynighttothe pointof destruction.
It appears to have been apremeditated and planned attack. Theoffender/s having taken an axeorsledgehammer to the instrument.
MPG spokesperson HelenSandercoe said theyweredeeply distressed and saddened by the news
"Weare distressed forthe owner of the piano who donatedit, Maria Chalke, whose cherished family instrumentaffectionately dubbed 'Helga'had sucha tragic and violent end. Maria recalled days when her children and she playedtogether,and it will be distressing fortheir whole family," Helensaid.
"Weare also sad forthe community who enjoyedthe piano being thereand having the opportunity to playit, even though it wasold and out of tune.
"But beyond that, we arealso very concerned forregular usersofthe underpass who sawthe piano as apositivepresence in the community and gave them asense of positiveness about aneglected and foreboding walk through. Nowthereisshadow thatwill exist every time they traverse the underpass. People who felt safe mayfeela little less safe because of this single act of wanton vandalism,"she said.
Thegroup has been contacted by several people by phone and email who have been shocked and distressed by the loss and destruction and want MPG to replacethe
Thursdaymorning.
piano. They commended the initiative. "We need lots moreofthis,"one person commented.
Up until nowthe 10 pianos dotted across the shirehavebeenagreat source of joy.
In the wake of the incident,MPG was pleased to hear from the team at theCastlemaine Visitor Information Centre that theylovehaving the piano on the portico of the historic Market Building, and despite the extremes of the weather affecting its tunability,hopeitcouldlast into thefuture.
MPG is hopingtoupgradethe piano at some stage.
Northern Arts HotelCastlemaine, well known forits piano concerts in 'The Coolroom', particularly jazz,has been a big supporter of MPG,hosting the group's opening and closing concerts during the Fringe.
TheCoolroom manager AlanJoycehas
Inquest into deaths
ACoronerwill hold an inquest into the deaths of fivepeople runoverbya MountMacedon man at the RoyalDaylesfordHotel. ResidentWilliam Swale is aType-1 diabetic and suffered ahypoglycaemic episode when he lost controlofhis car and veered into the pub's beer garden in late 2023.
Prosecutorsargued Swale wasnegligentafter he ignored warning signs about his declining glucose levels, but the Magistratedismissed thecase against him late last year afterfinding his actions were involuntary.The Coroner confirmedSwale wouldn't face further charges and the inquest would examine outdoor dining risks and safe driving by diabetic drivers.
kindly agreed to host amemorial fundraiser to celebratethe lifeof'Helgathe piano'.
Thefundraiser will be held at TheCoolroom on SaturdayOctober 18, and funds raised will be split between MPG to plan futurepiano placements and Castlemaine SafeSpace.
Maine Piano Guerrillas, likegardening guerrillas, area small group of friends who are saving pianos from thetip!The group began as aconversation over coffeeatthe Wesley Hill late in 2024. Theprojecthas grownfrom finding pianos to inviting well-known pianists to becomethe ‘Pianists at Large’ and hosting communityconcerts during TheFringeand hopefully into thefuture
Thegroup is also pleased to have built a relationship with JoshuaMcPherson from Making Melody Music in Bendigowho is assisting moving and tuning pianos.
Formoreinformation on MPG, email mainepianoguerrillas@gmail.com
Friends, family and community have mourned thelossofMacedonRanges Shirecouncillor,Christine Walker,who died last week.
FellowSouth Ward councillor and mayor, DomBonanno, said last week the news hadlefthim and manyothersin shock.
"I have spoken withChristine's husband Andrew andonbehalf of the council, offeredour deepest collective condolences and anysupport the family mayneed through this incredibly difficult time,"hesaid.
"Christine broughta naturalwarmth and humourtothe councillor role,but she wasalsoincredibly inquisitive, thoughtful and regularly offeredvaluable insights from herexperienceasamarket researcher
"Vale Christine –you will be sorely missed and our thoughts and prayersare with Andrew,daughterIsobel, and the wider Walker family."
Cr Walker wasfirst electedtothe role in November2023 on countback to fill aresignation vacancy.She wasthen reelected fora four-year term at theOctober 2024 council elections.
Cr ChristineWalker
Council’sCEO Bernie O’Sullivan said Council staffwerealso notified of the shock news overthe weekend and staff who worked closely with Christine would really feel this loss.
"I join themayor on behalf of council and staff in offering my sincerecondolences to Andrew,Isobel, and the extended Walker family," Mr O'Sullivan said.
"Our councillorsbecome family in manyways– we arefeeling this sudden loss deeply, and will do fora long time
"Christine cameintothe role laterthan those around her in her first term, butshe showedgreat willingness to weather the whirlwind of information to supportand speed up her induction.
"Her community-driven approach, attention to detail and warmth were respectedbyall those around her."
More information on the councillor vacancy willbeprovidedindue course, in consultation with the Victorian ElectoralCommission.
Bringyour town to lifethis December with aChristmasgrant
We’reoffering Community Christmas CelebrationGrantsto help townsacrossthe shirecelebratethe festiveseason.
Grants canbeput towardsoutdoor decorations, community events, Santa visits, barbecues, music andother celebrations.
“We’reproud to support communityChristmas celebrations,”saidMayor,CrRosie Annear
“I encourage community groups to applyagain this year and spread the festivecheer across our shire!”
Applications close on Friday 15 August
Find out more andapply at mountalexander.vic.gov.au/ChristmasGrants
To askquestions, call 5471 1700
Kynetonpowerless after carcrash
safety measures.
Aconcrete powerpolewas destroyed aftertwo cars collided in Kynetonlast Tuesdaymorning.
Police, paramedics and firefighters were called to thescene at the intersection of Mollison and Beauchamp Streetsat9.40am and victims were treatedfor non-life threatening injuries.
Theintersection, located in the centre of Kyneton, wasblocked to traffic and pedestrians due to fallen powerlines sprawled across the footpath.
“We’re going to have to replacethe pole… it will be afew hoursatleast,” the spokesperson said.
“Weremind the community to always treatfallen powerlines as live, even if you maythink they’renot
“Staywell clear,atleast 10 metres,and report anyfallenlines to us on 132412.”
Powerwas restored to theimpacted homesthatsameafternoon.
It marksthe second time acollision has occurred at this intersection in the past six months and locals have called forgreater
Onenearbyresidentsaid it wasa regular occurrenceatthe end of their street.
“I’velived therefor thepast15years and have seen severalmajor accidents and the powerlines replaced previously.Beauchamp Street is an extension of the freewayand cars speed through. We need aroundabout or setoflights heretoprevent casualties,” the residentsaid.
Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil’s‘KynetonMovementNetwork Studyand Strategic Plan for2024-2033’ notedthe road wasan“unsignalised cross intersection with crash history” It identified the need to install aroundabout at the Mollison Street/Beauchamp Street intersection as a“medium priority”
Transport Victoria’s data consolidated from the Victoria Police and hospitals, report sixaccidents have occurred at this intersection between 2014 and 2021. However, notall accidents at this intersection arerecorded in their dataset, such as an accidentthatoccurred on Anzac Day earlier this year whenaMercedez Benz driver failed to giveway andcollided with another vehicle, 700m from wherepeople were marching on the street
5471 1700
Morgan Reinwald
Two
Brigadesstepping up forfundraiser
AmyHume
Afirefighterintheir full turnout gear is notwhatyou expect to see at the gym,and definitely notusing the stair master.But it has become the norm forAshleyKrive.
TheMalmsbury firefighterhas begun training forthe gruelling Melbourne FirefighterStair-climb in recreating the experience
"Training has become abit moreinvolved now,"she told the Express
"Mygym has been really good at allowing me to bring in clear gear to practise. Most people thereknowthatIamtraining forthe challengesotheyunderstand what is going on."
On September 6, she will join 1000 firefighters and emergency servicepersonnel to competeinthe challengethatwill see them suit up in 25kg of gear and climb 28 floorsofMelbourne’sCrown Metropol.
Theclimb raises funds and awareness for cancer research and crisis including Lifeline, PeterMacCallum Cancer Foundation and 000Foundation.
This year marks Ashley'sseventh stair climb but this is the first year she's done it solo. Last year,she completeditwith her mother Linda who had just recoveredfrom cancer,raising $2200.
"I enjoythe challengeofitand Ilike whatitstands for,"Ashleysaid.
"Thereare certainly first responderswithPTSDand mental healthbattles because of the natureofthe work. We see it quitea lot."
TheRomseyFireBrigade team members also felt connected to cause as firstresponders.
This year'sRomseyteam includes MatthewMoore, Thomas Ruessmann, Michael Envall, Martyn Osborn and Chris Owens.
"All of us recognise thatwhatwedois challenging. We go to alot of significant incidents and thataffectspeople in differentways,"Thomas said.
"Wealso want to challengeourselves and if we candothatwhile the raising funds forthese causes, it'sagood thing."
Romseyhas so farraised acombined $2595 towardstheir $5000 target, and forsome members,the challengeisreturn effort.
Gisborne FireBrigade is also entering the challengewithsomeprevious challengers. This year'steam includes Berris Saultry,Lei De Giy, Di Dale andRhylee Musgrove
Each of the participants have their own reason, and forLei, the stair climb hits close to home.
"After losing close friends to suicide andfacing cancer personally,I’vecome to understand howdeeply these battles can affect individuals and communities,"she said.
"[This is]myfirst climb to show thatno one should feel alone in their fight."
Otherbrigades with teamsgiving the challengetheirall this year include Kyneton, Lancefield, Castlemaine and Campbells Creek.
KynetonFireBrigade's team includes BlakeDickins, Tristian Smith, NicHanna, Rohan Dickins, Luke Tracey,Stephanie Sharp and RoyceSharp, who have so far raised $1956 toward their target.
Lancefield Fire Brigade's NathanAgius will also be among those stepping up to the challenge. So far, he has raised $270 of his $500 fundraising goal
Team memberscompeting forCastlemaine Fire Brigade areHarper Russell and Peta Ballinger,and forCampbells Creek Fire Brigade those racing the clockare Ash Hawesand Chris Cook
People candonate to the cause via the website: firefighterclimb.org.au and by searching the individual or firebrigade team they wish to donate to,and followingthe prompts. Theclimb takesplaceon September 6.
Romsey FireBrigade’s team is MatthewMoore,Thomas Ruessmann, Michael Envall, Martyn Osborn and Chris Owens.
Gisborne FireBrigade’s 2025 team is Berris Saultry,Lei De Giy, Di Dale and Rhylee Musgrove
AshleyKrive is tackling the Melbourne FirefighterStair-climb forthe seventhtime. Sheis pictured with her mum Linda at last year’sevent
Ambulanceresponsetimesrevealed
Morgan Reinwald
Paramedics in theMacedon Ranges attended 777 criticalincidents with lights and sirens during the past twomonths with an averageresponse time of 16 minutes and 44 seconds. MountAlexander Shirehad 312 similar incidents and sawanaverage response time of 18 minutes and 45 seconds.
AmbulanceVictoria’s latest data revealed both regions had slowerCode 1response times than the stateaverage.These are considered time-criticalincidents thatrequire lights and sirens, and include patients suffering acardiac arrest, heart attack, strokeor major trauma.
AmbulanceVictoria’s aimistorespond to 85 per cent of all Code 1incidents across the state within 15 minutes, and the data revealed about 65 per cent of incidents met this target.
Regional director forAmbulanceVictoria, Michael Georgiou, said the state’s paramedics responded to 98,874 Code 1incidents between April and June 2025.
“FromApril to June 2025, the state-wide averageresponse time to Code 1emergencies was15minutes and 27 seconds –down from 15 minutes and 37 seconds ayearago,” Mr Georgiou said.
“Winterisalwaysour busiest time. Our paramedics arefocused on reaching the sickest patients first–but every day, more than 500calls to Triple Zero (000) don’t need an emergency ambulance.”
Less urgent incidents thatare acute,but nottime-critical, aregiven aCode 2, and the averageresponse time across the state –for morethan 51,000 calls –was about 45 minutes in the past twomonths.
Macedon Ranges paramedicsresponded to 503 Code 2incidents and were about fiveminutes quicker than the state average.
210 of these incidents and were almost 10 minutes longer than the state average. Response times aremeasured in minutes from thetime acall to Triple Zero (000) is answered, until the time the first ambulance arrives at the scene. AmbulanceVictoria advised the Express theyweren’t aware of anything specific thatcould impact the response times of paramedics in these two regions.
Minister forAmbulanceServices, Mary Anne Thomas, said Victorian paramedics
were facing record demand.
“Our paramedicshavenever been busier, facing record demand –and we’rebacking them in with morefunding, training and support so theycan keep providing worldclass careinevery corner of Victoria,”Ms Thomas said.
“Despitethis demand, ourparamedics across the Macedon Ranges and Mount Alexander Shirecontinuetodeliver worldclass caretolocals –but we know thereis moretodo.
“It'swhy we'reinvesting in alternative carepathwaysincluding theVirtual Emergency Departmentand NurseonCall– so our paramedics areavailable forpatients most in need.”
TheVVEDprogram redirected morethan 46,000 non-urgent cases away from an emergency response in April and June this year
Amoredetailed breakdown of the data can be found on the Midland Express website.
The Victorian Government is delivering real help, right nowwith over 90 different savings benefits. Likesavingupto$2030offthe cost of installing alocally made energy-efficient hot water system with aSolar Victoria rebate and aVictorian Energy Upgrades discount.
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‘Everyoneshouldhavea home’
Castlemaine communitygatherfor homelessness vigil
Jade Jungwirth
Thereare currently 80 people in MountAlexander Shireexperiencing homelessness. Thirty people aresleeping rough. Ninety per cent of residents struggle to afford to paytheir rent and more than 250 families areseeking housing support
To honour these people, andtodiscuss creativesolutions to the issue, community membersand supportagencies came together on the steps of the Market Building last Thursday.
Onebravemother shared her story (read by KezJennings from Castlemaine Community Centre), about the difficulties she faced afterleaving her marriage10years earlier
"I suddenly Ifound myself asingle parent, thrownintothe battle of the region's grueling, dogeat dogrental market," she wrote.
"I never, forone second of my life,imagined thatI would be in this situation. Notinamillion years.
"People don't knowwho we are. Thereisa real blanket view of whattype of people become homeless or areatrisk of becoming homeless. Thereisalwaysanundercurrentofpeople thinking; youmust have done something wrong, or youare somehowto blame foryour situation,"the woman wrote.
"You can't establish acommunity around you, because you're alwaysmoving, alwayspacking and unpacking boxes. Boxesfilled with your life. It's incredibly fatiguing, stressful and humiliating. It hasahugeimpactonyour mental healthand it just wearsyou down. Everyone should have ahome, it'sabasic human right. Housing should notbeabout wealth."
My Home Network coordinator, KazNeilson, acknowledged the courageand generosity of sharing lived experience,and the need to recognise them as expertswhen informing policy in housing strategy and reform.
Thelong-timehousing advocate spokeabout the systemic disadvantages thatimpactonhomelessness and the need forstrong advocacy in arangeofareas.
"Tosolve this social crisis, it has to be about gender equity, gender diversity,Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander selfdetermination, social inclusion, climate changeadaptation and addressing discrimination and racism,"she said.
"90 per cent of our renterscannotaffordtheir rental. They pay morethan 30 per cent of their income on rent,many60-70 per cent,and the mental healthimpact aresignificant.
"How do we getmoreaffordable housing? What if we usecurrent housingstock to better capacity.Wehavea vacantdwellings group thatislooking to tryand release the 1200 vacantdwellings in our shire. We'renot just talkingB&B's. We need 600 social houses, that'sonlyhalf of the vacantdwellings available. We'vemanaged to release 14 vacantdwellings, which is adropinthe ocean, but it's providing housing now."
Dhelkaya Health's senior housing support worker,Courtney Stephens, believestoreally start tackling the issues, thereneeds to be stronger collaboration between services.
"Byuniting various sectors, we can gather resourcesand expertise to work on comprehensivesolutions that address all aspectsof homelessness,"she said.
"Asa communityweneed to keep raising awareness and keep talking aboutthis issueand we will make adifference."
DhelkayaHealth offers avariety of programs available to help adults, youth, single people and families who areexperiencing homelessness or areatrisk of homelessness. These include:assistancetosustain private rentals, whichmay include help with rental arrears, moving costs, bonds or tenancyadvice. Assistancefor social and community housing, nominations fortransitional housing in the region.Advocacyand referrals and information. To access support, visit: dhelkayahealth.org.au/ community-health-wellbeing/housing-services
To find out howyou canhelp, visit: dhelkayahealth.org.au/my-homenetwork
Meteor causes ‘sonic boom’
Reportsofa 'sonic boom'and meteor sightings from residents across centralVictoria on Sundaynightcaused an explosion of posts across Facebook groups.
Theevent,which occurred just after 7.30pm, caused alarge 'booming sound' that caused houses to rattle from Bendigoto Ballarat,withmanybelieving an earthquake had occurred.
Videos of the fireball shooting across the sky,and hundreds of reported sightings, plus alack of seismic activity, confirmed thatthe meteor wasthe cause of the disruption.
Amateur astronomer Facebook group, Australian Meteor Reports, released a statementthatread: 'This wasnot space junk. It wasanasteroid entering the earth's atmosphere. Theasteroid could have been
Commercial Law
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anything from the sizeofa basketball up to the sizeofa fridge'.According to Australian Meteor Reports, an eventofthis sizeusually only occursinAustralia onceortwicea year, usually over theocean
Thegroup believesitispossible that parts of the asteroid survived the atmospheric entry and mayhavefallen to the ground as meteorites.
Take control of your health today
The GPspracticing at ourclinic arehighly trained and supported by ateam of friendly receptionistsand experienced nurses.
During the one minute’ssilence, community members held spacefor the enormity and sorrow of homelessness.
Reading brings lifelong adventure
TheChildren’s Book Council of Australia Book Week is alwaysahighlight of theschoolyearand something the entireLangleyPrimary School communityeagerly anticipates. In 2025, the school is excited to celebrate the80th anniversary of Book Week, with the theme 'Book an Adventure'.This inspiring theme invites readerstoexplore newworlds, embark on literary journeys, and discoverthe endless possibilities thatbooks offer.
Throughout the week, LangleyPrimary students will delveintothe magic of storytelling across differentlearning areas. They’ll engageinrich discussions and creativeactivities inspired by their favouritebooks, authorsand characters.
Akey event in theschool'scelebrations is the Annual Book Week DressUp Day, wherestudents and staff come to school dressed as abeloved bookcharacter or someone who embodies the year’stheme. It’s ajoyfulday thatsparks imagination and celebrates ashared love of reading.
Langleyisfortunate to have awell-stocked school library,enhanced by regular visits from theMARCvan—a mobile library serviceled by passionateteacher-librarian, Mrs Russell. Supporting sevensmall schools across the region, MrsRussell ensures the mobile library remains vibrant, engaging and full of qualityliterature. Each week, students participate in library lessons thatnurturea love of reading, build research skills and encourage responsible borrowing.
Book Week at Langleyisatruecelebration of storytelling, creativity and the lifelong adventurethatreading brings.
Books are magic
Sitting rightinthe heart of Castlemaine is Stoneman’s Bookroom,regional Victoria’s oldest independentbookshop,and a belovedinstitution to themanylocalswho have grownuplosing themselves in the magic of its bookshelves formorethan 60 years.
Stoneman's hasa vast array of genres, in particular,a largecollection of local and First Nations books. Thestore's most popular area though, is itskids’section. Here you’ll find books to delightevery young person,
from sweetboardbooks to gripping book series foryoung adults. Newreleases and much-lovedclassics —theyhavethem all, and if by chancetheydon’t, they can easily order them in foryou. Stoneman'salso stocks activity books and puppets,jigsaw puzzles and gift sets.There’sachildren's book foreveryone at Stoneman’s,eventhe child in every adult! Call in and chattothe staffabout all your reading needs. They’reopen sevendaysa week.
Few people leave empty-handed
Children of all ages arewelcomeatWoodend Bookshop.The ownersencouragechild literacy with alarge children’s book section containing both second-hand and asmall newbook selection. With the shop’s aimofproviding the best,you will findfavourites likeDrSuess and Harry Potter,aswell as agood rangeofAustralian classics. Besides fiction, thereare collectable children’s books from past generations, likeBiggles and Enid Blyton books, and nonfiction and activity books. Thereisa sofa in the children’s section forbookworms to startreading or forparents to read to younger children. Allagesare catered forwith picturebooks to young adultfiction. Thestaff can advise about ageappropriate books as all staff areparents and all have abackground in teaching or book-publishing and alongassociation with books. In other ways,the shop encourages reading. Forthe thrifty,bargain bins of $1 children’s books areoutside the shop.Specific books canbeordered, forexample agift setofPaddington Bear or BeatrixPotter or Lord of the Rings. Another outreach of the shop involves weekly visits to theWoodend GoodstartEarly Learning Centre forstory reading sessions thatintroducelittle ones to avarietyofstories. Thestory books aredonatedtothe centre to build agood starting
library.Ifyou haven’tmade to triptothe Woodend Bookshop,it’s worth avisit. Theshop is open sevendaysfrom10am-4pm. You neverknowwhatyou’ll find.Few people leave empty-handed.
Students set to ‘Book an Adventure’
Next week, the children of St Mary’s Primary School will celebrateBook Week 2025 with the exciting theme'Book an Adventure' Students arelooking forwardtodressing up as their favouritebook characters on FridayAugust 22, filling the school with colour,creativity and imagination. They will also takepart in Book Week-themed rotation activities, designed to inspirea love of reading and spark their imaginations.
StaffatStMary’sbelieve reading is a vital partofeducation, opening the door to creativity,criticalthinking and lifelong learning. Bookstakeusanywherewewant to go —fromenchantedforests to faraway galaxies —without ever leaving the page.
With 'Book an Adventure' as theirguide, St Mary’sstudents areready to embark on journeys limited only by their imaginations, proving thatatStMary’s, every reading adventureisjustthe beginning of anew story
Celebrating 33 years of stories at Aesop’sAttic
Book Week is here, and the Children’s Book Council of Australia Book of the Year Awards once again shine aspotlight on the best in Australian children’s literature.
At Aesop’s Atticin Kyneton, they’ve been celebrating stories for23 yearsunder the McKenna family’scare, with the storeitselfrunning continuously since1992 –anincredible 33 years serving the community
They stock acarefully curated rangeof newand second-hand children’s books, from belovedclassics to the latest award-winners. They also specialise in sourcing rare and unique titles forfamilies and collectors, ensuring even the hardest-to-find stories can be enjoyedbynew readers. They’reproud to offerdiscounts to schools andregularly donate books to local schools and communitygroups, helping to sharethe joy of readingfar and wide.
Forco-owner Clare, this timeofyearholds personal meaning. Growing up withsevere dyslexia, reading wasoncea challenge. Butshe discoveredfirst-hand thatthe rightbook, at the rightmoment, could changeeverything. That belief– thatthereispowerinbooks to inspire, connect and transform –has shaped Aesop’s Atticfromthe very beginning. As CBCA Book Week reminds us, 'Reading is magic'.Stepinside and find your next great story
MiaMia farmer pleads guilty
AMia Miafarmer pleaded guilty to seven animal welfareand traceability offences at KynetonMagistrates Court.
Michael Pryor, an absenteeowner and person in charge of asmall herd, pleaded guilty to chargeswhich occurred between January 2024 and September 2024.
Thecharges sit under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act1986, Livestock Disease ControlAct 1994 and Livestock Disease ControlRegulations 2017.
AgricultureVictoria Animal Health and WelfareComplianceManager,Daniel Bode said Mr Pryorwas sentenced without conviction and fined $7000 withanorder to pay $454.74 in costs.
AgricultureVictoria officers responded to acomplaintata propertyinMia Miaon which cattle owned by Mr Pryorwerebeing kept "Ofa herdof12cattle, the majority were suffering from extremely lowbody condition," Mr Bode said.
AgricultureVictoria officers also found a cow with her leg caughtina wirefence. It had been recumbentfor at least 48 hoursand waseuthanised to preventfurther pain and suffering. Through further investigation it wasfound therewereNational Livestock Identification System breaches.
These breaches involved afailuretosign or provide National Vendor Declarations, moving livestock notappropriately identified by wayofanNLIS device, failing to apply for apropertyidentification code, and failing to provide information about themovementof livestock.
Mr Bode said the NLIS is Australia’s systemfor identifying and tracking livestock fordisease control, food safety and market access purposes.
Anyone wishing to makea specific complaintinregardtolivestock welfareor traceability breaches cancontact Agriculture Victoria on 136 186 or aw.complaint@agriculture.vic.gov.au
Wildlife road-strikes:
in Victoria
If you’verecently spoken about wildliferoad-strikes, you’renot alone. Theissue has become so widespread and distressing that aParliamentary Inquiry is currently under wayinVictoria. The reasons areobvious —rapid urban developmentand abooming human population have collided head-on with nativewildlife habitats.
In just 40 years, Victoria’s population has jumped from 2.8 million to nearly sevenmillion. Aquarter of Victorians nowlive rurally,and regional tourism is burgeoning. Meanwhile, roads have been pushed through natural habitats without regardfor the animals thatlivethere. As aresult, wildlifecollisions arebecoming an increasingly serious and urgent issue.
Victoria’s urban sprawlstands out among other Australian statesand countries —for all the wrong reasons. Unlike many places overseas,we’ve failed to incorporatewildlifecrossings into infrastructureplanning. Thecosts arehigh: loss of human and animal lives, expensivevehicle repairs, transport delays,insurance hikes, and pressureonemergency services and wildlifecarers.
Tourism also suffers. According to Tourism Australia, Australia’s unique wildlifeisour biggest tourism draw.In2024 alone, naturebased tourism revenue was$90 billion —morethan doublethe
outdoor sports or arts sectorsand eighttimes thatderived from wineries. Dead and injured animals on the roadsideare notonly tragic but off-putting to visitors.
Thereisgood news —solutions exist.
Experts agree speed is amajor factor in collisions, especially at dawn and dusk. Lowering speed limits in high-risk areas could help, though public support mayvary.Virtual fencing and flashing lights mayoffer short-term fixes,but animals can adapttothem, reducing long-term effectiveness.
Provensolutions thatdecrease collisions and enhancebiodiversity through safe corridorsfor wildlifemovement, include wildlifeoverpasses and underpasses. Underpasses canoften be retrofitted to existing infrastructure. Landbridges —orgreen bridges —are even moreimpactful, reducing wildlifecollisions by 80–90 per cent.Europe and North America have thousands of these structures —someare even tourist attractions in themselves. Australia has just ahandful, and Victoria has none. It’s time Victoria caughtup.
Join us Sunday, August 31, 2–4pm at the RayBradfield Room, 33Forest Street,Castlemaine (between IGAand Victory Park) for afreeseminar with subjectmatterexpert Professor EmeritusDarryl Jones. Learnhow we cancreatesafer roadsfor humans and animals alike.
Welcometoyourregular column,featuring news, tips and recipesfromthe Castlemaine CommunityHouse and GrowingAbundancecommunities and networks
Atradition to look forward to
Castlemaine CommunityHouse is avital and much-lovedcommunity hub —a welcoming placefor young and old, wherevisitorscan makeconnections, learn newskills, participateincommunityactivities, receivefreefinancial advice, bring acommunity group together,access acommunitypantry, sharea meal and much, much more. From men’scooking to social prescribing, from youthengagementtoyoga,fromart classes and Pride Picnics —CCH helps to build and sustain this amazing community.
TheSpring Ball is Castlemaine Community House's annual fundraiser toraise essential funds toinvest in their community wellbeing initiatives and programs, tobeable tooffer free and accessible venue hire, and maintain afreefood pantry —ensuring our services remain inclusiveand available to everyone in need.
TheSpring Ball started as acommunity meal inviting CCHsupporterstocome together to sharea meal and raise funds forthe community house. Today, it wouldn't be whatitis without the supper.Thanks to Josephine Bodno and the wonderful team of volunteers, it’sisa tradition to look forwardto. Thesupper is alwaysdelicious– vegetarian with gluten-free options –and includes avarietyofsweet treats so everyone can fuel themselves to keep going on the dancefloor
‘BLISS BALLS’
Andspeaking of energy bursts –this month’s recipe isexcellentfor a pre-going-out protein boost!
BLISSBALLS FORDANCING QUEENS (AND KINGS)
Ingredients
*1 cup pitted dates(preferably medjool)
2tbs cocoapowder (orcacao powder)
4tbs peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
1½cups rawalmonds (cashews also work well.)
3-4 tbs honey(or ricemalt syrup if vegan)
Method
Placethe dates, cocoapowder and peanut butter into afood processor or blender.Blend until the mixture resembles apaste. Addthe almonds and ricemalt syrup and blend untildesired chunkiness is achieved.
If your mixture is toodry,add morehoneyand pulse to mixthrough. The mixtureshould be the rightconsistency to roll into balls.
Jo Bodno attended the very first Spring Ball,30years ago, and has been volunteering for CCHeversince.
“Without volunteers, things just wouldn’t happen. TheSpring Ball is morethan just a big event– it brings thecommunitytogether,and proceeds go directly to runningCCH programs. We putinalot of time and effort to makethe Spring Ball extraspecial and memorable.”
NAB,the major sponsor of this year’sSpring Ball,will be presenting the highly soughtafterSpring Ball costume awards –socome clad in your finest enchantedattirefor achance to win some fantastic prizes. Thanks tootoother supporters, which include Dominos Pizza, Cantwell Property,Green Goes theGrocerand other local businesses.
To find out more aboutCCH,and theSpring Ball happening on SaturdaySeptember 13, go to:cch.org.au/springball2025.
Growing Abundance is currently funded by the Victorian Government.
Roll balls in cocoapowder (orcoconut flakes)ifdesired.
Storeinanair tightcontainer –will keep forabout aweek, if theylast thatlong! *You can use dried apricotsifyou don’t likedates but the apricotsmay need to be soaked and drained.
TheSpring Ball is Castlemaine Community House’s annual fundraiser and atradition to lookforwardto.
Helping families save money
Families across the Macedon Ranges are invited to take part in acleverand sustainable waytorefresh their children’s wardrobes at the upcoming KidsClothingSwap hosted by the Woodend Neighbourhood House.
Theevent,which is scheduled for SaturdayAugust 16, offers families the opportunity to swap up to 10 quality items of children’s clothing in exchangefor newto-you finds –all while supporting local community programs.
Clothing drop-offs will be accepted on FridayAugust 15 (12pm– 3pm)and again on the morning of the swap (8.30am –9.30am), with the swap running from 10am to 12pm.
House Manager MelissaBaker said the swap wasa win-win forfamilies and the environment.
“Kids grow outofclothes so quickly –it just makes sense to sharewhatwenolongerneed. TheClothing Swap is apractical waytoreducewaste, save money, andhelp each other out.”
Held at theWoodend Neighbourhood House, the swap is open to anyone with children’s clothing in good,clean condition –fromsize0000 through to size 16. Participants will receiveone tokenper item dropped off, which can then be exchanged forother items during the swap.
Entry is by $5 donation and all proceeds from the eventwill support the activities of the Woodend Neighoburhood House, including theWoodend Food Bank.
Items notswapped on the daywill be donatedtoOur Village, anot-for-profit organisation supporting families in need.
Those interested in attending areasked to register via the Woodend Neighbourhood House websiteat www.woodendnh.org.au
FINANCIAL
E61 taxcalculator showsdisincentives to working
Thee61 Institutehas released anew interactivetool forcalculating Australian workers’ tax ratesand welfarepayments.
Thecalculatorreveals howthe tax and transfer systemaffects theincentives particular Australians have to work an extra hour,earn an extradollar,orenter the workforce
In some instances, working extrahours results in workerslosingmoney due to taxes paid and benefits withdrawn.
Forexample, asingle parentoftwo children earning $40 an hour is better off working 34 hoursa week than 35 hours. From around eighthours aweek to
around 32 hoursa week, theylose60cents of every dollar theyearn from receiving less of the Parenting Payment(Single)and paying moreincome tax.
Usersofthe e61 calculator can model differentscenarios by typing in someone’s hoursworked, hourly wage,and other details such as whether theyhavechildren.
“Our calculatorhighlights howthe Australian tax-transfersystemcan create disincentives forpeople to work, particularly forsingle parents with dependentchildren,” said e61 Instituteresearch manager Matt Nolan.
“A majorfeatureofour calculatoristhat
we can identify 'notches' wheresomeone’s income goes down despitethem working more. It then explains whythis is the case.
“Wehope this will be auseful tool forpolicymakers, journalists and the general public to better understand the incentives created by ourtax and transfer system.”
Find out moreat: e61.in/e61-workforcedisincentive-calculator
Our business continuestogrow. If you'd liketoget in touchwith us about your accountingand bookkeepingneeds pleasecontact us on the details below.
We offer afullrange of Accounting, Bookkeepingand Taxation services: -Preparation of Annual Accounts and TaxReturns- Business AdvisoryServices -Fullrange of bookkeepingservices includingBAS lodgement and Payroll -Individual TaxReturns
Woodend Neighbourhood Housevolunteer Cheryl and room booking
Power bonus is back
Victorians can apply fora new round of PowerSaving Bonus from Monday, August 25.
Thestate governmentinitiative will provide a$100 paymentto eligible concession cardhouseholds across the state
People canapply forthe Power Saving Bonus through the Victorian Energy Comparewebsite: compare. energy.vic.gov.au
They will need arecentresidential electricitybill, and must hold a health care, pensioner concession, veterans’affairspensioner concession or veterans’affairs gold card
Forthose without internetaccess or foranyone needing extrasupport accessing the bonus, 250 participating Neighbourhood Houses across Victoria aredelivering in-person support to apply
Grantsto connect carers
Applications have opened for the 2025 Connecting Carersintheir Community program, withmore than $760,000 in funding available.
Delivered in partnership with CarersVictoria and the Victorian Aboriginal CommunityControlled Health Organisation, theprogram offers grants of up to $25,000 for small organisations, FirstNationsled groups and community organisations.
Carer support groups, community health services, councils, neighbourhood houses and other grassroots organisations areencouraged to apply,especially those supporting carersinregional and rural areas.
Applications areopen until August 18. To apply, visit: carersvictoria.org.au
Father Wahid bids farewell
After11yearsserving the MountAlexander Shirecommunityasparish priest at theCatholic Parish of Castlemaine, Father WahidRiad is making the move southtoGisborne.
TheArchbishop of Melbourne, Most Rev PeterComensoli, has appointedFather Wahid as the assistantpriestofStBrigid’sParish Gisborne, wherehewill be based. He will also support the congregations at Riddells Creek and Macedon.
"I am very happywiththisappointmentas Isee the will of Godbeing fulfilled. Iwill be assisting Fr John HealyasmyParish Priest –in this newmission, which also covers St Mary’s Parish Lancefield and St Ambrose’s Parish Woodend,"FrWahid said.
Fr Wahidwill continue on in his role as chaplain at Sacred HeartCollegeKyneton
Allare welcome to attend afarewell forFr Wahid and aspecial eventtomark the40th anniversary of his ordination this SundayAugust 17.
Theday will begin with 10.30am mass in St Mary'sChurchCastlemaine and will be followedbya gathering in the neighbouring St Mary'sHall forrefreshments from 1pm.
Fr Wahidsaid he had greatly enjoyedhis time in Castlemaine wherehewas warmly welcomed by the community
"Everyone told me,heading to the goldfields, Ihad to find the gold,but Ifound it in the peoplehere,"hesaid.
However, he did facedsome challenges.
"According to acensus at the time, Castlemaine wasthe most generous community when it cametodonations to charity, butalso one of the least religious, so Ihad my work cut outfor me to bring people back to the church."
Fr Wahid founded the'Wayofthe Cross' multi-denominational walk across town, which united all the local churches and community each Good Friday.
"Itwas something we used to do in Melbourne and Ifelt it wasagreat waytotakethe church out of the building and into the wider community.Ithas growntobecome awonderful eventand Ihope it continues,"hesaid.
"I will missthe creativearts community,the gardenersand beautiful gardens and allthe festivals.
"I feel Idid my best to love you alland plantedmanyseeds in my time hereamong youall. Ipraythatmanywonderfulfruitswill emerge in God’sperfect time,"hesaid.
Fr Wahid will enjoya short break before taking up his post at Gisborne on September 19.
Grantstosupport veterans
Twogrant programs have opened to honourveterans,supporttheir welfare andstrengthencommunityrecognition of their contribution.
TheAnzacDay Proceeds Fund offers grants of up to $150,000 to organisations delivering welfaresupportto veterans across the state, andgrantsof up to $50,000 to organisations deliveringinitiatives forveterans in aspecific region or area
This year’sfunding prioritiesinclude initiativesthatsupport female, FirstNationsand LGBTIQA+ veterans, veterans living with disabilityand those from culturallyand linguistically diverse backgrounds.
Otherpriorities include support forveterans who served in post-1990 Australian DefenceForce operations, andcollaborativeprojectsdeliveredby multiple ex-serviceorganisations. Applications arealsoopenfor the Victoria RemembersGrant Program, offeringgrantsofupto$30,000 forprojects thatcommemorateveterans and deepen publicunderstanding of theirservice, includingnew memorials, significant anniversary events andpubliceducation campaigns. Applications forbothgrant programs close on September 15.For details,orto apply,visit thewebsite: vic.gov.au
Father WahidRiadwillbefarewelledwitha special eventfollowing mass at St Mary’s Catholic Church, Castlemaine this SundayAugust 17.
ETcare
If youliveinthe Macedon Ranges, thereare limits on the number and types of animals youcan keep on your property without theneed fora permit,depending on the sizeofyourland.
Anyanimals youkeep on your property must notcause anuisancetoanybody due to noise, smell or anyother issue.
Animals should alsohaveadequate housing and the property should be adequately fenced.
Youshould also check your land title forany covenants thatapply to keeping animals on your land.
Maximum allowancewithout a Local Lawpermit: Type of animal
Dogs
2–allowedonland less than 4000 squaremetres(one acre)
Small animals (rabbits,guineapigs, ferrets, and rodents)
6small animals in total allowedonland less than 4000 squaremetres(one acre)
TheLocal Lawdoesnot limit the number of other small animals on land 4000 squaremetres(one acre) andgreater Roosters andpeacocks
0–Roostersand peacocks arenot allowedonland less than 4000 square metres (one acre) without apermit
TheLocal Lawdoesnot limit the num-
Pet of the month
Reggie is aJug. Hismum wasa pug and his dad wasa jack russell.
Thefour-year-old is an avid Kyneton FNC fanwho can oftenbefound at the showgrounds on game daywherehelikes to chase aballathalf-time
Reggie is very friendly and his owner describes him as "vigorous" and "vociferous" and says "hethinks he's human!"
Animals youcan keep A An n nimmalls you can
ber of roostersonland4000 squaremetres (one acre) andgreater
Poultry (other than roosters andpeacocks)
10 poultry in totalallowedonland less than 2000 squaremetres(0.5 acre) 15 poultry in totalallowedonland between 2000 squaremetres(.5 acre) and 4000squaremetres(one acre)
TheLocal Lawdoesnot limit thenumber of poultryonland greaterthan 4000 square
metres (one acre)
Pigs
0–Pigs(including piglets) arenot allowedonland less than 10,000 square metres (2.5 acres)without apermit
TheLocal Lawdoes notlimit the number of pigs on land 10,000 squaremetres(2.5 acres)and greater Farm animals
0–Farm animals arenot allowedonland less than 2000 squaremetres(.5 acre) with-
out apermit, unless forgrazing in accordancewithclause56.(2) of the Community Local Law2023
TheLocal Lawdoes notlimit thenumber of farm animals on land 2000 squaremetres (.5 acre) andgreater
–Tohaveyoursay on Macedon Ranges
ShireCouncil'sdraft Domestic Animal ManagementPlan,dog off-leash areas and prohibited areas (for dogs and cats)visit: yoursay mrsc.vic.gov.au/furry-friends/draft-DAMP
@ YourOPINIONS
The real benefit of shopping locally
Name supplied, Kyneton
We recently ordered aKing Coil mattress from PeteratBetta Electrical, Kyneton. It wastotally my error thatIincorrectly ordered aSuper King mattress nota King. When it wasdelivered -ohdear,it wasway toobig.
Anyother shop would have said "bad luck, that's whatyou ordered".Not PeteratBetaElectrical. He could nothavebeenmorehelpful and supportive trying lots of options to assist us, even considering taking the mattress forhis ownhome! We found a solution with Peterbeing morethan generous. This type of servicewas absolutely above andbeyond and one youwould only getfromalocal! Support your local businesses before youdrivetoBendigo or further afield.
Uninformed and foolish
ALM, Gisborne
Re:The letter from Brenden McGrath('Feels likea crawl', Opinions,August 5). Iget fedupwith uniformed individuals who constantly blamecouncil forroad speed limits or road repairs!
Asimple search would have given Mr McGrath the answer,thatisall road speed limits areset by transport Victoria notbylocal councils.
It comesacross thata person would prefer to lambast their local council on an issuethatisnot their discretion, rather than look forfacts and in notdoing so makes themselves look foolishintheir rant
Youmust driveat40km/h through:
•activity centres, including shopping precincts and school zones
•local streetsinbuilt-up (urban andrural)areas.
Local knowledge (1 point)
1. What mascot does Woodend-Heskett Football Netballclubhave?
2. WhoisMacedon Ranges ShireCouncil’smanager of engineering and asset services?
3. Which local ambulanceauxiliary celebrated 50 recently?
4. On whatstreetisthe Woodend Police Station located (3 points)
5. Chasing Dreams is the product of which local primary school?
General knowledge (1 point)
6. WhoplayedMajor Margaret ‘Hot Lips’ Houlihan in the TV series M*A*S*H?
7. Which crisp brand first released ‘tazos’ collectables in their chip packetsacross Australia in the 1990s?
8. Which country is the world’slargest coffee producer? 9. Ghana’snational flag features what coloured star at its centre? (3 points)
What arethe names of the
Built-up areas and neighbourhoods —50 km/h. This applies to all roadsinsuburban areas where thereare no speed limit signs displayed. Country roads—100 km/h. This applies to roads outside of build-up areas, wherethereare no speed limit signs displayed.
Onewho 'actsinhaste, repentsatleisure'as the saying goes.
What has been done?
Cheryl Jorgensen,Castlemaine
Last Thursday, Castlemaine library hosted a screening of Under Cover,a confronting documentary making the point thatwomen over50are the largest cohort of Australians likely to become homeless in their owncountry
Written and directed by SueThomson and narrated by Margot Robbie, the documentary follows the secretlives of 10 Australian women who, through no fault of their own, have been forced out of family homes and living in cars, vans, or on the streets. Thomson started Under Cover in 2019, battled with filming it through COVID, offering it to the public in 2022. So in 2025, whathas been done about homelessness in general —including the people living rough in our owntown—and specifically forevenmorevulnerable older homeless women?
Once the Australian dream wastoown your ownhome, but currenthouse prices oftensoaring beyond the million mark has made this, formany, simply apipe dream. Factor in our critical housing shortageand youhavethe cost of renting ashelter an obscenity
Thomson reminds us thathousing is agovernmentresponsibility,yet charitable institutions trying to support homeless people arecollapsing under the weightofthe problem. In 2022, an es-
timated504,000 women were in danger of becoming homeless. What arethe figures in 2025? Aclosely kept secret.
Apart from thedanger and the nagging uncertainty about whattomorrow is going to bring these older homeless women, is the obvious loneliness of their predicament. Couldn’t the governmentoffer them some part-timework thatwould noterode their Centrelink payments to bring them into contact with other people?Perhaps safe meeting places rightacross Australia could be established forwomen from all backgrounds to gettogether and sharetheir
Ifully agree thatthe contractorsfor cleaning the public toilets around Kynetonshould use the available sealed walkways around thegardens. Some missing logs separating the KynetonCommunity Park from thesmall road have given the 'opportunity' to usea short cut to thetoilethouse; and it was taken notknowing thatthis grassypartisnot toosafetodrive on when wet–tosay the least. Maybe there have been little children around the extremely beautiful playground and on the walkwaysand the cleanerswanted to avoidthem; who knows?I walk daily through ourtownand alongthe RiverWalk, and Inoticealot of differentbehaviours.
Idon't want to protect thecontracted cleanersfor doing the wrong thing. In my opinion it is farmoreimportanttolook at some situations they have to cope with very often; notonly 'down' at thegardens but especially and sort of regularly at thetoilets nexttothe Town Library.This morning, shortly after9am, Ipassedthe open door of thetoiletfor persons with special needs, the twocleanershad just arrived and were 'greeted' by an absolutemess. Please see the above photoItook before theystartedto bring the placebacktostandard.
Iguess something likethatisnot coveredin their normal working contract.Imust confess thatIfelt ashamed forthe stupid and abhorrent behaviour of one or moreofour citizens. AndIpromised the twocleaners thatI wouldreport the situation; theyfulfil work most of us don't want to do.
Andfor them thesame saying counts thatweall can seedaily at post offices, banks,shops, public offices and more:"Nobody deserves aserve"!
Local choir the Woodend Warblersisteaming up with Ballaratbased SweetMona's Choir fora concert at Kyneton'sBluestone TheatreonSundayAugust 17.
SweetMona's Choir is on tour to launch their latest album Letthe Good Times Roll andthis afternoon of song promises to be packed full of energy and harmonies. Theconcert begins at 2pm; visit
www.sweetmonaschoir.com for tickets.
TheWoodend Warblersisanonauditioned community choir that began in 2018 and has gone from strength to strength, nowboasting morethan50membersfromacross the Macedon Ranges. SweetMona's Choir is one of Victoria's longest running gospel and world music choirs.
Applications have opened forthe 2025-26 Pride Events andFestivals Fund, agrant programthathelps community groups and organisations deliver events thatshowcase LGBTIQA+ pride and visibility
Eventorganiserscan apply to shareinagrant pool of $400,000 –with $10,000 available forsmaller events and$25,000 available forlargerfestivals Applications close Tuesday, August 26. To apply, visit the website: vic.gov.au
TheWoodend Warblers boasts morethan 50 members from across the Macedon Ranges.
Amagical musical journey
Following the success of 2024’s The Addams Family,Gisborne Secondary Collegeand KynetonHigh School reunitethis month to presentStephen Sondheim and James Lapine’s acclaimed musical Into the Woods
This cleverand heartfelt production intertwines belovedfairytales – Cinderella, Jack, Little RedRiding Hood, Rapunzel –with the story of abaker and his wife, who must break awitch’s curse by collecting magical items.
As wishes aregranted, thecharacters soon discover thatevery dream comeswith aprice. With themes of yearning, responsibility and the truemeaning of “happily ever after”,the show promises wit, wonder and unforgettable music.
More than 70 students from yearsseven to 12 areinvolvedinevery aspectofthe production –fromlead rolesand ensemble singing to backstagecrew, lighting and sound, prop and setconstruction, and front-of-house operations. This collaboration showcases notonlyartistic talentbut also teamwork, friendship and creativity
Don’tmiss this wonderful showcase of whatincredible young people can achieve!
Remaining shows areonthis Friday, Saturdayand Sunday, August 15 to 17, at the Barcham Theatre, Gisborne Secondary College. Ticketsare available from www.trybooking.com/DAUCG
Discover art and creativity
Castlemaine Artists Market is bringing art and creativity to the centre of town on SundayAugust 24.
Wander among morethan 50 stalls of fabulous, handmade artwork and find the perfect gift forsomeone special. Because, let's face it, wherewould we be without art in the world? Go along and have achatwith theartists and learn about their crafts.
Enjoydelicious food and drink as well as livemusic on the grass. This month Castlemaine Artists Market welcomes back My GypsyHeart –soaring harmonies and joydevivrebetween these wonderfulmusicians.
Go along and enjoya greatday out; whether youare alocal or visiting the area, therewill be something thatinspires.
Themarket willrun SundayAugust 24 at Western Reserve, 10am-2pm
ValleyRoadatLauriston Valley Road at Lauriston
Thebig hit from last year’sLiveand Local event, ValleyRoad (Marty McKenna and Rebecca Jane Howell) will be presenting aconcert of their delightful songs at Lauriston Hall on Saturday August 30.
Thehugely popular duo has just been recording their newCD, so they’ll have even morewonderful music to share.
Their heartfelt songs and superb musicianship are suretodelightastheypaint pictures in your mind of, among other things, the beautiful rolling basalt hills of the Macedon Ranges.
Go along to enjoya welcoming, cosy environment and delicious homemade soupstowarm the cockles of
your heart while youlisten to some awesome music ValleyRoad will be supported by another superb local singer/songwriting talent, BenGallagher,who will getthe evening offtoa rocking start.
Doorsopenat7pm fora 7.30 start.
The$25 cost includessoup and fresh bread forsupper along with teaand coffee. Children under 15 $5. Baravailable or BYOdrinks.
Onehundred yearsofthe Langley Barfold Fire Brigade
“Fireissomething thatwill always be withus, particularly living in this part of the world,”saysMark Bond, LangleyBarfold FireBrigade captain.
Andwhile there’sthe certainty of fire,there’salsothe certainty thatour approaches to managing the risks of runawayfirehavebeen changing over time. Newtechnologies have madea hugedifference as well as agrowing emphasis on training.
Mr Bond saidanother change–climate change– wasabig unknown in theretoo.
Anew book chronicling 100 yearsofthe LangleyBarfold Fire Brigade captures the ways in which alocal rural firebrigade has been protecting its community from the dangersoffirewhile adapting to change.
Time and Change– 100 Yearsof the LangleyBarfold Fire Brigade was written by Barfold local and former academic Deborah Warr who said the project showedthe importance of community in sustaining alocal firebrigade.
NAME (PRINT)
“Inreading historical accounts and talking to past and currentmembers, Isaw how importantcommunityistothe vitality of the brigade –communities need abrigade to managethe risksoffireand people joined brigades because theywantedtoprotect their community,” Ms Warr said.
Shesaidthe book built on other local histories and combined archival material and interviews withbrigade and communitymembers.
“Likemanylocal firebrigades, it has been sustained by the contribution of families who have been herefor generationsaswell as newpeople moving into thedistrictand joining the brigade,”MsWarr said.
Thebook describes major fires thathavethreatedthe district over the years. It also traces howthe establishmentofthe CFAhas profoundly shaped local brigades, as well as insights gathered in the aftermath of ‘Big Fire’tragedies in Victoria, including Black Friday, Ash Wednesdayand Black Saturday.
“It’sacracking yarn,”MrBondsaid. “Thereisa lottobelearntfromthis history for understanding whathappened andhow it mighthappen again.”
Thehard-cover book is available at Aesop’s AtticinHigh Street,Kyneton, and directly from the brigade.
Learner driver mentors needed
Young learner driverswho otherwise wouldn’t have hadaccess to acar or a supervising driver have spentmorethan one million hours behind the wheel thanks to the Transport AccidentCommission's L2P Program.
Theprogram aimstoprovide opportunities foryoung peopletoovercome disadvantages through community support to successfully obtain their driver'slicence. It matches learner driversaged16 to 21 (and insomecases, up to 23 yearsold)who don’t have access to acar or safe supervising driver with afully licensed volunteer mentor and car to help them getthe driving experience needed to gain aprobationary licence.
TheTAC L2P Programsupportsthe government’sGraduatedLicensing System, which makes it compulsory forlearner driversagedunder 21 to obtain aminimum of 120 hoursofsupervised driving experience
“Thereisnothing better than helping give someone alifelong skill to better themselves,”saysBendigomentorJames.
“Itprovides independenceatanimportanttime in their life, and Ireally enjoy seeing ayoung person’s confidenceand connectedness to theircommunitygrow.”
TheSalvation Army deliversthe program across the Bendigo, Macedon Ranges and CentralGoldfields regions and acquired their eighth car in May2025. An additional vehicle will enable the programtosupport moreyoung people this year.Last year theprogram supported 147 young people achieve more than 3500 hoursofdriving and 43 licences.
TheBendigocommunity bank branches of Gisborne, Lancefield and Romsey and Maryborough arevaluedand proud supportersofthe programand have generously contributed funding forvehicles to be used
TheL2P programislooking formorevolunteer mentors to assist in guiding andsupporting young learner drivers. Pictured arementors Gary Sanders, RichardLoydand AmandaWilson.
in each of these areas.
Thesuccess of the programcan be attributed to itsamazing volunteersand community partnerships across the state,which have supportedmorethan11,000 learners to obtain their probationary licence.
Thereisa large waitlist of learner drivers. Theprogram is alwayslooking formore volunteer mentorstoassist in guiding and supporting these young people.
If you areover21years of ageand hold acurrent fullVictorian driver’slicence, youcould become amentordriver forthe program. Training and programvehicles are provided. Formoreinformation about becoming a L2P volunteer mentor,contact Denise on 0409 246416.
LangleyFireBrigade captain Mark Bond and author Deborah Warr
RAY WHI TE KY NETON
7Farrier Drive, Kyneton
4Beds /2Baths /2Car $950,000 -$1,045,000
29 Valley Road, MiaMia
5Beds /3Bath/ 4Car $1,395,000 -$1,530,000
House
24 Wheatley St,Kyneton
3Beds /2Bath/ 1Car $785,000 -$815,000
RayWhite Kyneton |5422 2127
3Beds /1Baths /2 Car $1,200,000 -$1,300,000
332 Pipers Creek Road, Kyneton
3Beds /2Bath/ 2Car $1,000,000 -$1,100,000
House
67 Warren St, Kyneton
4Beds /2Bath/ 2Car $800,000 -$880,000
House
House
House
10 Beves Lane, Woodend
House
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MIDLAND Property &Living
Bushlandbeauty on four acres
Beyond the nativebushand adam shimmering withseasonal charm, along gravel drivewaydeliversyou to something quietly extraordinary: atimber ranch-style residencethatstands in quiet harmonywith its 4acrewoodland setting.
Step inside to ahome thatopens with asense of calm and clarity-wherespace has been thoughtfully considered and lightispart of the architecture. Theopen plan living and dining zone offers room to gather,unwind or entertain, while aseparatemeals area flows effortlessly offthe kitchen, making day-to-dayliving both practical and connected. Polished timber floorsreflect natural lightpouring in through large double-glazed windows,while the soft, neutral interior palettekeeps the focus on theever-changing views outside-bringing the landscape in, room by room.
Thegalleykitchen offers clean lines and functional beautygleaming whitecabinetry,induction cooking, and generous bench spaceready forfamily meals or culinary experts.Stepoutside, and the living continues beneath open skies: alarge,covered deck at the frontwelcomes slowmornings with birdsong, while at the rear,alfrescodining and entertaining come into their own on anorth-facing veranda deck overlooking manicured lawn, a vine-draped pergola, and astone-edged firepit designed forlong conversations and stargazing.
Theaccommodation wing is smartly arranged: three substantial bedrooms, including amain suitethatboasts garden views,a walk-in robe, and access to asleek two-way bathroom. Afourth bedroom or home office offers aconsidered workspace-separate, but notisolated.
Outdoors, utility is elegantly addressed: adouble carport, a large shed with power, concrete floor, wood heating, and dual roller doors-ready to serveasworkshop or studio space. Forextra storagethereisalso the garden shed situatedbesidethe veggie gardens and orchard. Sustainability underpins theexperience, with solar powerand hotwater,underfloor insulation, slowcombustion heating, reversecycle air-conditioning, and 50,000 litres of rainwaterstorage across three tanks.
Locatedmereminutes from Castlemaine, this is ruralliving redefined-notremote,but retreat-like.A home forthose who appreciate privacy,practicality and quietbeauty
Property: Homestead style residencewith soulful outdoor living space andgardens
Nestled on sevenacres just ashort drivefromthe heart of Kyneton, 332 PipersCreek Road offers the perfect blend of classic country charm and relaxedmodern living. Wrapped by awide veranda thatencourages slowmornings and peaceful evenings, the home sits gently on the land, framed by established gardens and open skies. Inside, the beautifully updatedinterior is warm and welcoming, with timber accents, acosywood fire, and split system heating and cooling ensuring comfort through every season
Thelayoutisboththoughtful and flexible, with three bedrooms and twobathrooms. The main bedroom is located downstairsand features an ensuiteand privategarden access, while twoadditional bedrooms upstairsenjoy leafy outlooks and soft lightthrough charming dormer windows.Ceiling fans and split systems in each room addtothe home's year-round liveability
Thekitchen and living areas arewell designed forconnection and ease, withlovelygarden views andasense of spacethatflows effortlessly throughoutthe home.
Outdoors, the property iswell setupfor horses, hobbyfarming, or simply enjoying wide open space. Thereare four paddocks, twoshelters, stables, atack room,chook pens, and a double carport, along witha boreand brand newwater tanks thatsupportthe land beautifully
MIDLAND Property &Living
Wheresunriseand sunset takecentrestage
Set on farming-zoned land under wide-open skies, this beautifully considered home at 125 OldDairy Flat Road ismorethan ahouse –it'sa handcrafted havendesigned forcomfort, self-sufficiency and panoramic peace.Additionally on offerare twoadjoining parcels of land, available to be purchased together or separately
Built with intention and surrounded by sweeping views,this44-squaremetrehome (plusa wide verandah wraparound) welcomes both sunrise coffees and sunsetwines. Inside, thecraftsmanship shines, spotted gumfloors, bamboo carpets and soft-touch cabinetry create atactile sense of calm.
Thekitchen?Equal parts soul and science. ARaeburn wetbackovenbrings old-world warmth, balanced by asuiteofMiele pyrolyticand steam ovens. Caesarstone benchtops cascade in waterfall style, while the butler'spantry keeps everything practical but outofsight. Need air? Remote-controlled clerestory windows andfivereverse-cycle split systems keep the environmentjust right.
This home has been designed so three bedrooms, bathroom, sitting room and kitchenettecan accommodate family or friends and has B&B potential. The master,with ensuite withwalk-inrobe is at the other wing of the home.
Step out to thealfrescozone, timberfloorsunderfoot, timber ceiling above, café blinds readytoroll. Full outdoor kitchen included, naturally
Butthe lifestyle goes beyond walls.
A10m x24m shed with waterand power, six roller doors(tworemote), plus agreenhouse, chook palace(sorry –shed), and orchardbrimming with everything from citrus to nectarines and apricots. Afirebunker(six-person capacity) offers thoughtful peace of mind, while afully integrated securitysystemwith remote viewing has youcovered.
Waterisinabundance– five22,000-litretanks (roofcollected with gutterguard), and thoughtful gardens blend indigenous plants with roses, lavender and productivefruit trees.
There'sevena wood room,ductedvacuum(with kicker), and yes, NBN WiFi
Whether you'rea grower, adreamer,orsimply someone looking to step into spaceand silence– this is ahomewhereevery detail has been designed with purpose and heart.
1,500 sqm in the midst of Campbells Creek being only ashort walk to Schools, Post Office, Café, and great pub
•With origins back in the 1800’sthe cottage offers two bedrooms, abathroom, study,anopen living meals area and countrykitchen whilst retaining period features of cove ceilings and colonial windows.
•Thecurrent planning scheme could allowa3 or 4lot subdivision (STCA).
•Tuckedaway
and
•Theupper level includes three generous bedrooms, with the master featuring an ensuite and walk-in wardrobe, plus acentral bathroom and aliving room with abalcony.Downstairs offers a home office or fourth bedroom, apowderroom, alounge, and aspacious kitchen overlooking afamily/meals area and dining space.
•Outside, asheltered entertaining area, established gardens, an oversized garage, and awater tank provide additional convenience. Located just 1.5km from Preand Primaryschools, this home is ideal for families.
•A true countrystyle allotment of approximately
a2.4km walk into Castlemaine or approx.4minutes by car along with easy access to Preand Primary Schools, variety of bush naturewalks, Stream Rail and much more, creating awonderful setting for your dream countrylifestyle home.
Lot2/41Martin Street, MCKENZIE HILL
Expansivescenic views across the valley
Nestled in apeaceful pocketjust on the outskirts of Castlemaine, this fabulous tranquil location has expansivescenic views across the valleyand is surrounded by bushland, full of birds and nativeanimals.
Forest Views is the perfect spottoyourdream home weather it is your first or your last home thereissomething on offerfor everyone. Includingthe local hotel, café,post office, schools, child care,riding and walking tracks, sporting facilities all within walking distance.
Within only ashort drivetothe centre of Castlemaine or 25 minutes to Daylesfordthis lifestyle developmentofferseverything youneedtobuild your dream home with the area boasting some of the regions most awarded wineries, restaurants,bakeries, barsand coffee shops and an easycommutetoMelbourne. STAGE1 is nearly sold out with STAGE2 nowselling of the plans withconstruction expected to commencein2026, with 28 fully serviced residential lots available withvarying block sizes from $250,000, including mains power, town water, naturalgas, sewerage and NBN all connected. Fora limited time only,KMPDproperty willbeoffering Colorbond fences with anyunconditional sale before September 30 2025.
Belle Property Castlemaineand Maldon.
Belle PropertyCastlemaine |5470 5811
|5475 1055
158Hargraves Street, Castlemaine.
4 a 1 b 4 v 1028r
•Reimagined 1950s modernist home with iconicbutterfly roof and lush terraced gardens.
•Features four doublebedrooms, sleek kitchen,ductedheating / cooling and stylish outdoor entertaining.
•Large garage/ workshop, veggie garden, close to parksand schools.
ForSale
$1,195,000 -$1,245,000 View
Saturday16thAugust: 12:45pm-1:15pm
RobWaller |0418 571 130
Blasi Mulholland |0417311 733
6Reckleben Street, Castlemaine.
3 a 1 b 1 v 2100r
•Elegantbrick Edwardian homewithslate roof and scenictownship views
•Features 3double bedrooms, timber floors, high ceilings,fireplaces, andversatile living spaces.
•Includescellar, studio, pool,gardens and STCA subdivision potential.
ForSale
$1,274,000 View
Saturday16thAugust: 1:30pm-2:00pm
RobWaller |0418 571 130
Blasi Mulholland |0417311 733
15 Woodman Drive, McKenzie Hill.
4 a 2 b 3 v 604r
•Stylish and spacious four-bedroom home with formal andopen-plan living zones.
•Designer kitchen featuring stone benchtops,walk-inpantry,and premiumappliances.
On aquietresidential streetwith a semi-rural outlook, these north-facing blocks offera rare opportunity to establish yourself in the old town area of Harcourt.
An ideal location forthose wanting to be within walking distanceofthe town’s amenities including the local pre and primary schools, which areonly 500 metres away.Other amenities within walking distanceare Blumes Bakery, Harcourt Produce and General Store, James Park playground and the seasonal swimming pool.
TheMelbourne Airport shuttle bus picks up and drops offnear the General Storeand thereisa daily bus serviceto Castlemaine plusdaily school buses to both Castlemaine and Bendigo. With easyaccess to theCalderHighway, it’sa short 20-minute drivetoBendigooryou can be in Melbourne within 90 minutes.
Township zoned, titled and ready to build withservices including mains power, town waterand sewer– don’t miss this opportunity to build your dream home in the heart of Harcourt
Property: North-facing blocks at Harcourt
Address: 9and 11 Warren Street,Harcourt
Price: 9WarrenStreet –787m² –$329,000 11 Warren Street –778m² –$325,000
Agent: Property Plus Real Estate
Contact: Di Selwood 0488 148 358
Inspect: Contact agent
Agent: Nathan Diss 0448 010 057
Contact agent Agent: Di Selwood 0488 148 358 APLACE TO CALL
•Titled and ready to build with mains power, town water,sewer,natural gas and NBN connected
•Easy walk to Campbells Creek post office, café,pub,school and sporting facilities
•Generous proportions with ablock size of 1082sqm, room for afamily home,shed and big backyard
Leah died peacefully at St John of God Hospital in Bendigo on 28th July2025 after ashort battle with cancer
Dearly lovedwife of Frank for 67 years. Loving mother and mother in law of Stevenand Marlene, Sharon and David. Grandmother to Rohan and Greta, Tessa andTravis, Sophie and Matt, and Jake GreatGrandmother to Jack and Gus. Sweet is the sleepthat ends the pain.
Fabulouslocal singer-songwriters Valley Road at Lauriston Hall Saturday,August30 Tickets $25 Children U/15 $5 www.trybooking.com/ DCMCL Doorsopen7pm Concertstarts7.30pm Includessoups,bread, BYOorbaravailable Enquiries: 0400526166
Leah Ranger (Toleman)
Landcarelooking forleaders
TheUpper Campaspe LandcareNetwork is making apublic call fornew committee memberstojoin its work supporting environmentgroupsacross the region.
Established to resource andassist landcareand environmental friends groups,the UCLNhas 14 activemember groupswith membersfromall sections of thecommunity UCLN presidentJohn Walter said the
hundreds of people in the UCLNmember groups made an enormouscontribution to improving the naturalenvironmentacross the region.
“Supported by our landcarefacilitator,we area keysource of assistance, information and resourcestowork with local groups, help them thriveand promote regional collaboration,”hesaid.
“A recent changetoour rules enables us to fill vacantpositions by appointmentfrom the wider communityand we arelooking for newcommittee membersfroma wide range of backgrounds.
"Aninterestinthe natural environment is agiven forour committee, but previous skills and experience in committees or boardmemberships arealso importantfor the UCLN’ssuccess.”
Established as an incorporated body,the UCLN also became aregistered charityin late 2024. It has arecordoflongand suc-
cessfulrelationships with governments and across the environmentsector
"It’salwaysexciting pleasing to work withour group members andtosee what theydo,”Johnsaid.
“Theyreally makeour communities and our region abetterplaceand the UCLNhas an importantrole to support them."
John invited anyone with an interest to contacthim directly on 0410 598 252 or to look at the UCLN’swebsitewww uppercampaspelandcare.org.au forfurther information.
Avenueclosed forworks
WinslowConstructorshas been engaged by Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil to complete the road reconstruction of Swinburne Avenue in Gisborne.
In order to enable the works, Swinburne Avenue will be closed north of the Swinburne Avenue Children’s Centre all the wayuptoRoss Watt Road
Access to theChildren’s Centre will be maintained, including to thecarpark along Swinburne Avenue.
Theclosure will be in placefromtomorrow,WednesdayAugust 13, until October 14.
In notifying local residents, the contractorsadvised theywould strivetominimise any disruptions and disturbances during the works.
Results are‘disturbing’
Former mayorBrian Hood feels the just released HepburnShireCouncil annual community satisfaction survey results indicatea "disturbing drop"in satisfaction with council'soverall performance.
Cr Hood,a Trentham resident, summarised the findings of the annual survey on Friday.
dents and ratepayers Cr Hood asserted the results illustrate the scale of challenges before council if it is to provide services to its communities in asatisfactory and responsivemanner
"Reaching afinancial sustainable outlook remains one of the fundamental challenges,"hedeclared.
In 16 of 17 categories, Hepburnisbehind the averagefor small rural councils.
He said council'soverall rating declined three points from last year's rating of 49, and nowsits at 46.
He said Hepburn'sperformancein13 categories declined in the pastyear.
"Thereisnow an eight-pointshortfall between our council and theaverage for small rural councils across the state."
He claimed"the disappointing results" will notcome as asurprise to manyresi-
In afinal observation, Cr Hood stated that"interestingly" the council'smedia release and websiteclaimed that "compared to 2024, overall satisfaction with most council services remains the same."
Combat social media attacks
Hepburn ShireCouncil wantstosee astate-wide communications and marketing campaign launched to promote positive messages about the vital role of local government. Oneofthe actions the council would liketosee is targetedmessaging aimed at countering negativecommunity behaviours, including social media attacks directed at councillors and officers.
At last week'scouncil meeting amotion from Cr TimDrylie wasunanimously carried under urgent business.
This provides forHepburn to lodgea motion to go to theMunicipalAssociation of Victoria StateCouncil advocating the MAVinstitute the proposed state-wide campaign. Hepburnalso wantsthe proposed campaign to promotethe wide array of services provided by localgovernmentacrossVictoria.
Hundreds of people in the Upper Campaspe LandcareNetwork member groups make an enormous contribution to improving the natural environmentacrossthe region
Long marker Joel Smith (28) stole the showonSaturdaybytaking overall and C-grade honourswith an outstanding 41 stableford points
In A-grade Jayson Glenister(14) edged Klai Jermyn (scratch)ona countback with 35 points, and Billy Burgess (16) had 37 in B-grade to finish one clear of Ross Stevens (15).
NTPswenttoBeau York and Jermyn, who had three birdies.
In the morning nine holes Glenda Jefferies (37) wonwith 16 points, on acountback from PeterCresswell (19). Carmel Cribbes had the only birdie.
Conditions on Thursdayprovedchallenging, with James McLeish (17) setting the early pacewith36stableford points, and retaining the lead throughoutfor the overall and B-grade awards.
Kane Clack (6) had 34 points, one ahead of Marty Beck (8) in A-grade.
NTPswenttoClack and Kors VanEyk.
GISBORNE
Well done Marg Ivory,the Demon memorabilia fanatic, who unlikeher team has peaked in August by winning the women's weekend medal, theWednesday monthly medal, and then the Saturday women's competition.
Speaking of golfing champions, we have all heardthe phrase 'A champion team will alwaysbeata team of champions.'
No truer wordshavebeenspoken, when the Hardlock Crowsplucked the Robinson Roosters in the Gisborne GPL competition on Saturday by onepoint.
Paul Deliawon the A-grade stableford on Saturdaywith 40 points, Dave 'Plucker' Plunket topped B-grade with 38 points, andAll HalesJohn Haleswon C-grade with 36 points. Local musician and club house firespotter Mark Testrowon Thursday'sAgrade open and Thursdaymonthly medal with 41 points.
David Tyquin wonB-grade with34 points and John Samual topped C-grade with 37.
KYNETON
Naga one minute,North Star thenext. Popular veteranCol O'Sullivan produced a remarkable turnaround in form to scorea three-shotvictory in the featureevent on Saturday.
O'Sullivan waslastwith17pointsin amid-week stableford andthen 14 over without apar in the monthly medal.
He took aweek offand bounced back with fiveparsand abirdie to card 8819-69, winning division twofromDavid Dubens 92-20-72 and leap backinto contention forthe prestigious 54-hole Rennick Trophy.
Jason McClure had his second consecutive79-5-74 to win division one by ashot from Terry Gamble (8) and takethe lead with Ross Foreman (15) in the trophyrace. NTPs went to ColHudgson (2), O'Sullivan, Terry Kotand Barry Murphy (also super pin).
Michael Huntington (35) continued his strong midweek form with 39 pointson Wednesdaytofinish twoahead of Hudgson (4) who had abrilliantback nine. Michelle Werner (20) led the women home with 31 points. Merilyn Hoysted wonthe encouragementaward NTPswenttoHudgson and Noel Alldis (both 2), Vicki Nettleton andJulie Harris. It washardwork forthe 16 women in their monthly medal eventonTuesday. Debbie Kohlman went parfreebut birdied the 18th to card 101-24-77 to snatchvictory by ashotfromDebbie Lomas (Belvoir Park) and Marg Scoble. NTPs were Jane Stanley(2), Werner and Grace Parkinson.
Only fiveplayers tackled Thursday's shoot-out offthe whitetees.
Neville Yates(8) missed six puttswithin six-feetand looked likewinning without apar thanks to acouple of birdies in the round
Hisonlypar came afterthree putts on the 18th and he ended four clear with 16 stableford points
LANCEFIELD
Bert Parks made it three wins in arow with asomewhatordinary scoreof92-1379 on Saturday
He edgedout Stewart Stevens10425-79 on acountback, with Greg Parks 96-11-85 third.
Thereweresome convincing wins in the first round of the par knock-out, with the highlightbeing 13-year DarcyCreer's5&4 margin overlow marker Gary Dudderidge.
ThursdayFix: Chris Turner (23) 33 points, from John Leefe(13) 32 and Bruce Hay(28) 29.
Women's medal: Sheena Flentjar 10831-77 from Di Brennan 105-23-82 and Di Rohde 113-31-82. Jenni Vennell NTP.
Legends: PeterMcGill84-11-73 from Malcolm Ive96-22-74 and Stephen Morgan 105-30-75.
With pins left over from the Saturday medal round, therewerenoeasyputts; only three birdies forthe dayreflected this Mugand B-grade winner wasclub treasurer Brian Collins(21) with34points.
Mike Gorman (16) snared A-grade with 33 points.
Grade runners-upwereW.Alrus(13) and Mike Smitheram (22) with33points each.
John Dawson and PeterSemmenswere NTPs.
ROMSEY
Semi-finals of the club's prestigeW.E TomShield were expected to be close on Saturday, andsoitproved.
Theplayers involved areveryexperienced, and understanding of matchplay formats.
Luke Lyons (1) and Dean Kohler (1) defeated Keith Hocking (21) and Mick Nicholls Snr(15) on the 19th, and Dylan Harris (3) and Mick Squire(0) edged out Andrew (5)and Toby (11) Clement2&1.
Good luck to thefinalists.
Wednesdaynine hole stableford:Lorraine Robb made awelcome return to the course, and Kath Jekabsons (31) had 17 points to beatDarlene Baker(16) on a countback, with Robb in thirdplace.
TRENTHAM
Thesecond and final round of the men's Winter Cupproduced some good scores from among 69 competitorsonSaturday.
The36-hole eventsaw Simon Ovenden (1) emerge as thescratch winner with 148, and James Campbell (20) takeout the handicap awardwith anett138.
TheA-grade winner wasPaul KentonBarnes 79-9-70 on acountbackfromChris Campbell 80-10-70; B— AnthonyFlores 84-17-67 from RodMaddern 82-14-68; C—Mark Callahan 92-25-67 from James Connell 90-21-71.
Thewomen's stableford went to Kirsten Jensen (17) with33 points, on acountback from Alex Evered (17).
WOODEND
Mark Hutchison blitzed the field in Woodend'sstableford eventonSaturday. From ahandicap of 9, he had 39 points to takeout A-grade from GuyMoxley(4) on 36.
Young gun Kobe Veitch (14) topped Bgrade on 38, one clear of 'old gun'Wayne Stott(15). Cody McDorman (22) led the wayinC-grade with37, from Pete Elliot (23) on 32.
Five in VCCL teams
Bill West
Five star Gisborne District Cricket Association players have been included in the Victorian Country Cricket Association's Teams of the Year Presentations took placeatthe VCCL annual meeting on Sunday.
Gisborne Cricket Club's Brianna Woodman is captain of the VCCL women'steam aftera remarkable homeand away season whereshe scored 745 runs at an averageof 745 (dismissed only once)
AndGisborne vice-captain RileyVernon is in the men's VCCL team as an opening batter and vice-captain.
He chalked up 912 runs at an average of 65.14 forhis club, morethan anyother player inthe VCCL team which is captained by fast bowler JimmyElford, from Northern
Waters (Warrnambool Moyne Region).
Having returned from playing overseas, Vernon will be back in action forGisborne this season, giving the Dragons avery strong lineup.
Theother GDCA players to be included in the women's side areopening batter Megan Farrell and pacebowler Kia Montgomery, both from Wallan, and opener SarahBamford (Bacchus Marsh)
GDCA presidentSimon Ovenden and secretary Callum Jackman warmly commended the fiveGDCA reps on their achievements and wished them well forthe coming season. Woodburn's versatilityand skills arealso very evidentonthe football field as well, as she looks forwardtorepresenting Macedon in the Riddell League's women'sfinal. Then it will be back on the cricketfield for20252026.
Kynetoninrevival mode
Bill West
KynetonCricket Club datesback to 1855, and last season manylocalsand outsiders found it hardtobelieve the club wasunable to field asenior men's team
Well, things areabout to chance in the 2025-26 season with newpresidentDan Mayatthe helm, aided by asmall and very keen group of cricket enthusiasts on the committee.
"We're poisedfor abig season, with expanded playing opportunities, vital facility upgrades, and newinitiatives to strength community involvement,"May told the Express.
Gisborne DistrictCricket Association has confidencethatKynetonwill makea major step forwardin2025-26.
Thepresidentsaid fora town Kyneton's sizetherewas ageneral expectation there would be astrongcricket club.
This season the committee planstohave asenior men's team,under ageteams, agirls' team and mostlikely awomen's team
"We're focused on creating moreopportunities forpeople of all ages and abilities to play cricketwith Kyneton. and that includes welcoming women of all experience levels into oursenior program.
In recent seasons Kynetonhas had some very talentedjunior players,but severalhave gone to other clubs which offerhigher levels, rightthrough to McIntyreCup.
Overall the club is looking at asenior men's team,anUnder 17s side, possibly two under 15s boys,and under 15s and under 13s girls' teams. Last season the U13girls excelled on the field.
Ryan Hensleyisvice-presidentand treasurer,Lucas and Kylie Arnup arecoach-
Positiveand welcoming outlook: KynetonCricket Club presidentDan May pictured at the nets last week.
ing and coordinating someofthe teams. Amanda Mayisthe newsecretary,Simon Dundas —fromMia Mia— brings his talents as aprovenplayer, andMick Garrigan is playing his role as well.
Thesenior men's side is ideal forjuniors wishing to makethe step up to senior ranks. Later in theseason theclub's popular Woolworths Blastprogram foryoungsters will run over eightweeks —volunteersare being soughttohelp with this program.
KCCwill welcome back anyformer playerswho would liketojoin the ranks. .and maybe there'sacouple of qualityplayers just looking fora positive,ambitious club to join and enjoytheir favouritesport
Upgrading the topovalwicket and nets has been apriority since safety issues were identified last season.
Training is notfar away,and DanMay assures everyone awarm welcome awaits as KCClooks to improve overall, andmakea name foritselfinthe GDCA.
More success:RileyVernon and Brianna Woodman arepictured with GDCA lifemember Kevin Sullivan (centre) after theywon theassociation’s Player of theYear awardsinthe GDCA last season.
GKUthrough to GrandFinal
In beautifulsunny conditions, Gisborne-KynetonUnited extended their winning streak and booked adirect ticket to the Grand Final, defeating TaylorsLakes in emphatic fashion at Walter Reservelast Saturdayinthe EDFLWomen’s Qualifying Final.
If therewereany nerves, theydidn’t show. United took control early,slotting three goalsinthe firstquarter.After astandout performancelast week, full forwardWilliams found herself well-held by the TaylorsLakes defence.
This opened thedoor forCowan to step up,capitalising on Williams’contested work to gather loose balls and kick four goals forthe match. Williams still managed threeofher own, while Crooks chipped in with twoasUnited’sforwardline looked almost unstoppable.
By half-time, United held acommanding seven-goal lead, with TaylorsLakes struggling to find answers.
In the midfield, United’sintensity wasunmatched. Nicholson, Todorovic and Ainslie worked tirelessly in the middle, while Murphyand Gibson provided driveand delivery from the wings. Hateleywas again astandoutinthe ruck, giving her midfielders first use. Macumber rotated between forwardand midfield, contributing heavily to scoring opportunities.
Thesecond half sawTaylorsLakes push deeper into attack, but United’sdefensive unit wasrock solid. Lenius, Peterson and Mitchell were outstanding in the back 50, executing polished, fastpaced exits and turning defenceintoattack.
GKU 11.4.70 defTaylorsLakes 1.3.9.
Coaches Marantelli and Hawkes praised the team’s effort and composure,but reminded the players to stay focused with plenty of work still ahead before the Grand Final on SaturdayAugust 23, 12.10pm at CoburgCity Oval
FIDA Tigers to theGF
KynetonFootball Netball Club's FIDAfootball team hasmadeitto the Grand Final forthe very first time.
Theside finished the season unbeaten on topofthe ladder CoachPeterConnorsaidhe wasextremely proud of the team's efforts this year and excited for the grand final.
"I'vebeen coaching forfour yearsand to go from being in last placetobeing undefeated this year is an amazing effort by the whole team," he said.
"Their determination to show up every week inthose yearsthat we weren'twinning goes to show thathardwork really does payoff
"I'm really proud of the team andhopefully we can win thebig dance."
Thematch between Kyneton andthe Bendigo Suns will be playedat12pmonSunday, August 17, at Weeroona Oval, Bendigo
Gisborne to vote
Gisborne Football NetballClub has just given formal noticeofa specialmeeting to enable eligible players andmemberstovote on whether or notthe Bulldogs should leave the BendigoLeague and playwithBallarat League next season.
Themeeting is dependentonthe Ballarat League voting to accept Gisborne at its meetinga week earlier on Thursday, August 14.
TheGisborne FNC special meeting has been listed for7.30pm on Thursday, August 21.
While BendigoLeague is keen to retain Gisborne, astrong case has been made forGisborne to cross to Ballarat in recent months. Close proximity of Sunbury Lions, Darley, Bacchus Marshand Melton clubs in the Ballarat League is justone of the advantages being putforward.
ForGisborne non-playing and playing membersunable to attend theAugust 21 meeting thereisprovision forproxy voting. Those entitled to vote must have been membersfor at least 10 business days.For currentnon-memberswho areinterested in voting on the club's future, memberships can be obtained now. Furtherdetails areon Gisborne FNC'sFacebook site.
Gisborne teamshavea byeinthe Bendigo League this Saturday.
Abrightfuture: Macedon Football
is pleased thatteenagenetballer
with senior coach Katie Clarke, has been named in thetop 50 forthe Victorian Under 19 state squad. Chloe, who attendsSalesian College, is in her first season with the cluband the Cats can'twait to see whatthe future holds forher
Final round
Round 18 on Saturdayisthe final home and away round before 2025 finals begin in the Riddell District Football Netball League.
Gisborne District CricketAssociation's 2025-26 season is nottoo faraway.
First round matchesinthe McIntyre Cup (top grade)onSaturday, October 4, areto begin at noon,asfollows: Romseyv Sunbury United. Macdon vWallan.
Rupertswoodv Gisborne.
Woodend vBroadford(at KynetonShowgrounds)
Thefixtures forthe othergradeshaveyet to be finalised.
Netball Club
Chloe Eyre,pictured
An excited Kyneton FIDA football team will play in the Grand Final this Sunday
Tahnee Farrell in action forGKU.Photo:Sophie McLeod
Cats vRiddell in grandfinal
Bill West
TheRiddell League's 2025 women's football grand final will be playedatGilbert Gordon Oval,Woodend, on Saturday.
Theparticipants areunbeatenflag favouriteMacedon, aiming to repeat its epic win in 2024, and aremarkably improved first season side Riddell.
Woodend-Hesket FNC president, Paul Podbury,saidhis club waspleased to be hosting the women's grand final forthe third year in arow
"The match is due to kick-off at 5.30pm, and we hope the weather is favourable and it draws alarge crowd," he said Macedon is in the grand final aftera 8.6 to 2.1 second semi-final victory over Lancefield, and on SaturdaynightRiddell wona low-scoring preliminary final 3.4 (22) to 1.4 (10) against Lancefield.
Avery largecrowd turned out at Lancefield in whatwas apositivestepforwardfor women's football in thearea.
Thematch wasplayedingood spirit, and Riddell'stwo second-term goalsgavethe Bombersanedgewitha full moon overhead.
TheTigersscoredtheir only goal through HarrietZiedaitis in the thirdquarter and
stayedincontention until the Bombersproduced the only goal of the final quarter
Final scores were 3.4 (22) to 1.4 (10).
Forthe Bombers, best players were captain MollyConnell, Mariam Habib, Emma Croft, Jessica Sproule, Lauren Shaw and Charrouf
TheCash Ferguson-coached Tigers were best served by Molly Libardi, Lilly Bromley, Georgie Champion, Abbie Sarginson, Emily O'Brien and Luzanne Paeglitis.
Experienced coachRob Bretherton did notenvisagethe Riddell side making such progress when he took up theposition, and is delightedwith the outcome, and the team spirit being displayed.
About 70 per cent of Riddell'steam list had neverplayedfootball before this season.
Having fun is apriority,and the Bombers aregoing to givethe grand final their best shotonSaturday.
Understandably,the much moreexperienced Macedon team is ahot favouriteto takeout theflag, on the ground wherethey beatKyneton5.8 to 6.1 in the 2024 grand final.
TheCatshavesome very talentedplayers, including captain Brianna Woodburn, Ruby Watts, Lilli Collinsand topgoalkicker CharlotteNoonan.
LionsroaroverDons
Harcourt accountedfor Maldon comfortably in round 17 action in the Maryborough Castlemaine DistrictFootball NetballLeague at Bill Woodfull ReserveonSaturday.
Thereisalwaysaspirited rivalry between the twosides and once again theydid notdisappoint.
Harcourt were on topearly kicking three goalsinthe opening term to Maldon's oneand held a13-pointleadatquarter-time.
Maldon found another goal an even second term but the Lions kicked twomoretoextend their lead at 20 points at the long break.
TheDonnersbattled hard in the thirdterm kicking three goalsto the highly fancied Lions' twotobring the marginback to 13 points at final changeand still be within striking distanceofa comeback.
Thehome side continued to makethe most of their chances in the final stanza kicking another three goals, but Harcourt had all the answerskicking seventodouble their scoreand run out winnersbya comfortable 38 points.
Best forMaldon were Lachlan Shanks, Thomas Maxwell, Billy Johns, Callum Buchanan,Darcy Kellyand Xavior Noy Best forthe Lions were Joshua Hogg,Jordan Gartside, Braydon Vaz, Luke Anderson, Riely Thiesz and KalebMcBride.
TheLions remain in fourth spotwithone round to go,whilst Maldonsits in eighth.
Topplaced Trentham made the journeytoHedges Oval to tackle the Maryborough Giants.
TheSaints signalled their intent from the opening bounceand smashed through eightgoals to theGiants' three in the first quarter to hold acommanding 31-pointleadatthe first change.
Trentham piled on another sevengoals while restricting thehome side to just twopoints.
At half-time thevisitorsheld a76-pointadvantage.
TheGiants lifted in the thirdand threw everything at theSaints in an attempttostemthe tide. They held their visitors to threegoals for the term and kicked one of their ownbytrailed by 95 points at the final change.
Trentham found asecond wind in the last term kicking another 6.3, the Giants only managing apointinreply,withthe Sainters running out winnersby133 points to cementtheir spotonthe topofthe ladder and achanceatredemption come finals time.
Best forthe Saints were James Regan in another incredible performancewherehebagged12 goals, Taylor Ford,Thomas Fuller,Joel Cowan, Alister Ferrier and Rhys Smith.
Avoca welcomed Campbells Creek on Saturday.
TheMagpies had been showing steady improvementoverthe last fewmonths buthad been dealt anumber of injury blows in the previous game. This did notdampen their drivetoclinch thatelusive win.
Thetwo sides were fairly evenly matched in the opening term, but the Bulldogs capitalised on their opportunities and led by 14 points at quarter time.
Creek bootedthree moreinthe second term and kept theBulldogs to twotobring themargin back to nine points at half-time.
TheMagpies continued to soar in the thirdkicking another three goals and applying plenty of pressureonthe Bulldogs forwards keeping them to just 1.7.
TheMagpies clawing their waybacktowithing three points. Butthe Bulldogs bounced back in the final term kicking three cru-
cial goalsand keeping Creektojustthree points to win the match by 21 points.
Best forCreek were Dylan Stevens, Michael White, James Haber,HadleyBassett, HarleyYoungand Nicholas O’Brien. In other matches Talbothad a47pointwin over NatteBealiba and sits in second spotand Navarrehad a115 pointwin over Lexton. Newstead, Carisbrook and Dunolly had the bye Netball
On the netball court in AGrade contests,Maldon 30 lost to Harcourt 46. Best forthe Donnerswas Sophie Zammit.Best for the Lions wasGemma Papadimos.Maryborough Giants 50 defeated Trentham 35. Best on forthe Saints wasSharna Ford.Avoca 88 defeated Campbells Creek 31. Best forCreek wasElouise Jones. Navarre32losttoLexton46. Talbot49lost to NatteBealiba 54. This weekend
In the final round of home and away matches this weekend, Dunolly welcome sNewstead, Harcourt hosts Avoca, Maryborough Giants versus Natte Bealiba, Campbells Creektakes on Navarre, and Lexton tackles Carisbrook. Maldon, Talbotand Trentham have the bye.
Getting the messageacross:Macedon co-coach Chris Nolan addresses some of the players when they defeated Lancefield in the second semi-final.
Maldon and Harcourt go head to head at the Bill WoodfullReserve.
Photo:Max Lesser
Maldonand Harcourt had some topbattles on the court. Photo:Max Lesser
Kynetonin bigmatch
Bill West
Kynetonsenior footballersdominatedon Saturdaytowin by 107 points, but will have to repeat the form this Saturday against Melton Southatthe Showgrounds in what is seemingly apre-finals trendsetting match forbothsides.
It's the 18thand final home and away round, and the Kynetonclubisurgingits supportersfromnear and fartocome along to the Showgrounds and showtheir support on Saturday.
Theclubset its sights on playing finals in its second season in the Riddell League,and aloss on Saturdaywould notbeideal for confidenceentering the finals. Form indicatesitshould be acrowd-pleasing match.
While Kynetonthrashed adisappointing Centrals, withAngus Nolteleading the way witheightgoals, arampaging Melton South kicked 28.13 (181) to Lancefield's7.12(54) in atune-up to theclash with Kyneton Melton Southspearhead Alec Goodson kicked 11 goals, and the side has starsin SamDarleyand former Richmond dual premiership player Marlion Pickett.
Thereweresomevery enthusiastic young Kynetonsupportersgiving their side encouragementthroughoutthe match, with an elementofcrowd humour on display.
Kynetonplaying coachEthan Foreman will need to be on guardifthe visitorsget their game going on Saturday; equally,there wasplenty to likeabout Kyneton'soverall effort against Centrals
Macedon has to beatCentrals at Tony ClarkeOvaltoguaranteea spotinthe finals. If seventh-placed Romsey win, and Macedon lose to Centrals,the Cats would miss the finals.
HAWKS CAUSE BOILOVER
Woodend-Hesket,languishing in seventh position,causeda boiloverbydefeating second-placed Riddell by twogoals at Gilbert Gordon Reserve.
TheHawkshaveimprovedoverall in the second part of the season, and this was their big day.
TheBombersmay have been belowfull strength, but they would have expected to win.
It wasdesperation football as theHawks kicked four goals straightinthe final term to winby12points, 13.9 (87) to 11.9 (75).
Character building fornextseason for plenty of Hawks, with AlexGray, Cooper Newton, Cody Bowenand Daniel Toman listed as their best.
TheBombers' best were BrentSwallow, Matt Pannucio and skipper Josh Grabham.
Theother shock came as DiggersRest's bid to go through the home and away round undefeated came unstuckagainst thirdplaced Wallan.
Forthree quartersthe Magpies made their opponents look anything but apremiership prospect,but DiggersRestlifted and cut the final margin to five points.
Macedon, Romseyand Gisborne Giants allhad abye on Saturday
Topteamsin Riddell netballthriller
It doesn't have to be high scoring to captivatespectators, as illustrated with the A-grade netball clash between WoodendHesket andarchrival Riddell on Saturday.
TheunbeatenHawks arechasing their thirdpremiership in succession, and Riddell is the logical challenger,ashas been the case in recent seasons.
Afterthe Hawks rocketedtoa16-8 lead at quarter-time, the Bombersregrouped and applied sustained pressure.
So much so it became abattleofthe defences.
Riddell had chances, but the Hawks ended up with a36-34 victory with coachTy Coppinger in outstanding form in defence. Irrepressible Mady Brownthe Bombers' best.
Many netball followers feel it is inevitable these twosides will be in this season's grand final.
Shanae Brundell starred with71goals as fifth-placed Lancefield outclassed Melton South 82-21.
Seventh-placed Melton Centrals beat Kyneton47-41 in aclose contest, andcould sneak into the finalsbyupsettingMacedon in the final round.
Wallan is sixth at present,but face the very consistentthird-placed Gisborne Giants this Saturday.
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