Midland Express Tuesday July 1 2025

Fair notlosttothe Ranges

Macedon Ranges has securedthe return of one of the region's most unique events for2026: TheLost Trades Fair Hanging Rock will be the backdropfor the event, which celebrates craftsmanship,skilled manual work, decorative arts, heritagecrafts, rare trades andgenerational knowledge.

Lost Trades Fair founders, Lisa and Glen Rundell, are thrilled to be returning the eventtothe region whereitall began in 2014.

"Hanging Rock is one of the mosticonic sites in the state anditisvery exciting to be able to bring our artisans

–the rock starsoftraditional and heritagetrades –together at such an inspirational sitetoshare theirskills, trades, talent, stories, culture, knowledgeand celebratethe finest levels of human craftsmanship,"Lisa said. Continued page3

People powerprevails: Co-op raises $2M to buy the Hub

TheCastlemaine Community InvestmentCo-operativehas createdhistory smashingits $1.95million targettopurchasethe town's Hubbuildingand bring it under community ownership.

TheCo-op's debenturecampaign surpassed its targetatlunchtime on Thursday

Thecampaign officially closed on Sundaywiththe co-operativeannouncingithad raised $2 million of invest-

ments to buythe historicHub building on the corner of Barker and Templeton Streets, Castlemaine. Thefundswill be usedfor allsale costsand maintenance reserve.

Director Gwen Hanna saidtheywere thrilledtoreach their debenture limit three days early

“Over 300memberssubscribed. And we arenow morethan500 members strong,”she said.

“Whatweare particularlythrilled about is thatwehaveraisedthe money forthe building withoutdonations or grants,” said director JeanettePope.

“Itisgenuinely apeople-poweredinvestment, and the Hubwill be genuinely community owned.”

TheCo-op will be thefirst to buy a localbuilding this way.

“Tobuy aprofitable building with investments –usingrents to paythe

investorsinterestand returning their principleatterm–isunique. We hope we can provide amodel forother communitiestokeep their real estate assets community ownedand used forcommunitybenefit,”director Cath Jollysaid.

TheCo-op directors saidtheywere proud of the community andthanked everyone fortheir involvement, advice, encouragement and support.

Continuedpage2

Therock stars of traditional and heritage trades areheaded to Hanging Rock.

Guiltyplea on assault

A21-year-old Castlemaine man has pleaded guiltytoarmed robbery,assault and propertydamage.

Colin Radleyappeared the BendigoCounty Court on June 26, following theincidentthat occurred at the Maxi IGAinCastlemaine on December 17, 2024.

Armed with aStanleyknife, Radley, who wasbelievedtobeunder the influence, attackedaman leaving the supermarket,kicking the man and attempting to stab himuntil apasserbyintervened.

Roughly 10 minutes afterthe attack, Radleyrobbed anearbybottleshop with the Stanleyknife, and made offwith nearly halfa-dozenbottles of spirits.

Radleyhas been bailed to arehabilitation centre in Bendigoand will return to court on December 18.

Kynetonpubs hitglobalstage

The Express brokethe news last week that aTVminiseries wasfilming in Kynetonabout the lifeoftennis star Evonne Goolagong. Screen Australia officially announced the showlastFriday.

"We’re deeply grateful to theABC for championing this project and recognising its significancefromthe outset,"said producer Joanna Werner."Andwe’re thrilled thatBBC Studios will nowtakethis uniquely Australian story to audiences around the world."

Lila McGuire, aWhadjuk and Ballardong Noongar woman, will star as Goolagong, and the tennis icon herself has signed on as an associate producer.BothThe KynetonHotel and TheRoyal George Hotelwerepart of the filming.

People powerprevails: Co-op raises$2M to buy theHub

From page1

“You can’tdosomething likethis without alot of people putting their shoulder to the wheel,"said director Angus Gratton

“Wecouldn’t have doneitwithoutyou all.”

While it’s toolatetoinvestinthisbuilding, everyone is still welcometojointhe Co-op

“Our membersall have an equal sayinour future (one member,one vote),”saiddirectorWarwickSmith.

“The sale won’tgothrough for60daysorso, andwewill keep operatingthe Hubthe wayitis, butwewill also start looking to thefuture. We have also partnered with theHub Foundationand will be looking at what community benefits we can create throughthat. Come join us!”

Visitwww.castlemaine.coopfor moreinformation on how youcan become amember

supporterNeil James, and directors Cath Jolly and Jeanette Pope celebratethe milestone.

Fair notlosttothe Ranges

From page1

"Welook forwardtomoving Lost Trades to thismagical location and deliver an unmatched experience to thethousands of visitorsfromacross Australia and around the world thatattend each year."

TheLost Trades Fair began in Kynetonand movedtoalarger venue at Bendigoin2020 to accommodate its growing popularity Macedon Ranges mayorDom Bonanno is excited by the event'sreturn to theRanges.

“Hanging Rock has areputation as alocation thathas the powerand magic to elevate events,and the return of the Lost Trades Fair is aperfect fit to inspireand captivateattendees and participants alike. Whether youare an avid fanora first timer,thisisone eventyou won’twanttomiss,”hesaid.

“The Lost Trades Fair also gives our local accommodation and hospitality businesses areal boost and an opportunity to showcase their wareswith the eventprojected to bring morethan $3 million to thelocal economy.”

Further details including dateswill be finalised soon.

Hanging Rock’s East Paddock,seen herefor the EltonJohnconcert in 2020, will be thestage forthe 2026 Lost Trades Fair Photo:BruceHedgePhotography

Droughttakes atoll

Prolonged dry conditionsworse than millenium drought

AngelaCrawford

Michael O'Sullivan can't remember aperiod of drought as challenging as the one we arenow experiencing.

Together with his sons, Martin, John and Anthony, the Bayntonfarmer breeds sheep and cattle on closeto3000 hectares of grazing land. Likemanyother farmers, they have hadtoshedstock to survive.

"I'vebeen through the '82 droughtand themillennium droughtand they were allchallenging, but in most cases we'd hadagood break, we'd gotten through witha very dry spring and summer but then we hadanautumn break, which setusupfor the winter,"MrO'Sullivan said.

"Inthis case, it'sbeen building up forthe last twoyears and we'vehad little pockets of rain but nothing substantial.

"Because last spring failed and therewas no autumn break, we'vedepletedour waterresourcestosuch low levels, it'sbeen areal challengefor us.

"I don't think I'veseena year likethis that'sbeen so deficientfor so long and we'vegone into the winterwith so little feed."

TheO'Sullivans have hadtoselloff 160 cows over the past four weeks.

"Wegot to atimeline whereweknewweweren't going to be able to getthem through, we'rejustdowntoour core group of breedersatthe moment,"MrO'Sullivan said.

"Weexhausted all our ownon-farm supply of grain and hayinabout April so we'renow sourcing barleyand hayto try supplementthe feed.

"We're using 27 tonneofbarleya week just to feed our sheep and that'scosting us about $10,000 aweek in grain alone.

"We're getting haywherewecan, when we can, but it's very hardtosourcenow,it'sinvery shortsupply."

Mr O'Sullivan said the little bit of rain they'dhad was notenough to producegrowth in thepaddocks.

"We've gota little bit of rain and that'sabsolutely

wonderful, but it's notinMarch or April when we'regoing to getgrowth, we'renot going to getanything until ourspring nowbecause of our frosts and our ground temperature'sdropped thatmuch,"hesaid

"All of Victoria and South Australia aregoing through this, it'shuge.

"And to think thatthey'rebringing in hayfrom Queensland now, I'venever known thatbefore. It just shows howdesperatepeople aretokeep their stock going."

UNFAIR BURDEN

TheO'Sullivans believe the stategovernment has notfully considered the hardships farmers arefacing before imposing thenew Emergency Services and VolunteersFund levy on primary producers.

Thenew levy replaces the former Fire Services Levy and will come intoeffect from July 1this year.The governmenthas given primary producers areprieve on paying the higher levy until July 1 next year

Although eligible fora rebate as volunteer firefighters, the O'Sullivans estimate the newtax will cost them an extra$12,000 ayear on topoftheir rates.

"Weare very concerned about the sharp increase in the Emergency Services Levy and the unfair burden it places on rural landholders– especially those who have historically built and supported thevery foundation of the CFA," Mr O'Sullivan said.

"Fromour owncalculations, our levy willincrease by $12,283. This is nota minor adjustment; it is adisproportionate cost forfamilies likeours, who have notonlylived on the land forgenerations but have been integral to the developmentofthe CFA.

"Three generations of my family have served as captain, lieutenants, ERSoperatorsand firemen over manyyears.

Meetthe climate change-makers!

We recently asked local businesses and community organisations whatthey’redoing to take action against climate change.

Youtold us stories about composting, collecting pre-loved clothing, buildingbiodiversity andlots more!

This July, we’resharing these stories to celebrate sustainability,the circular economy andthe good work that our community is doing locally

It’s away forustoconnect, share knowledge andtake actionagainstclimate change

Keep an eyeonour website, social media channels, and local radio,newspapers and community newsletters for inspirational stories from local faces.

Meetthe climate change-makers in business at shape.mountalexander.vic.gov.au.

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We housed thefiretruck on our property because there wasnoofficial station, and we laterprovided the land on which thecurrent Pastoria firestation nowstands.

"Our story is notunique, countless volunteersand farming families across Victoria have built the CFAfromthe ground up."

Mr O'Sullivan said it felt unjustthatthose who gave the most in time, resourcesand even land were nowbeing penalised the most.

"Without farmers, therewould be no CFAand no volunteer fireservices in the country.And yetweare now shouldering the bruntofthis financial weight,"hesaid.

"Weunderstand the need forwell-funded emergency services. Butthe systemmustbefair

"Levyincreases of this scale risk alienating the very people who continue to defend their communities in times of crisis."

Wina life-changing trip in Canberra

Young ruralwomen and non-binary students in years10 to 12 from across Australia will have the opportunity to win aonce-in-a-lifetime 'PowerTrip'tothe nation's capital.

Country to Canberra’sprestigious Leadership Competition launched last week, opening the door foryoung rural leaderstoembark on afour-dayleadership experiencedesigned to help them reach their leadership potential. They’ll meetwith CEOs andpoliticians, undertakeleadership training, tour parliamentand have access to ongoing mentorship and support as C2C alumni. Fordetails, visit www.countrytocanberra.com.au.Entries close 12pmAEST, Friday August 8.

Enrolments Closing Soon

Enrolments forYear 7, 2027 close on 25 July, 2025 (students currently in Grade 5).

Visit the Enrolments page of our College website to start your online enrolment application, or scan the QR code

Anthony, Michael and Martin O’Sullivan at their Bayntonproperty

Calderhalted for Liberty flame

Morgan Reinwald

Adriver escaped his vehicle afteritbecame engulfed in flames while travelling northbound on theCalder Freewayabout middaylastWednesday.

Thedriverreportedly hit an object driving his Subaru Liberty when he sawflames in the rear windowfromunderneath the car. He wasable to pull overabout 500m from the Romsey Road turnoff,wherepassing paramedicsprovidedemergency assistanceand passing VicRoads personnel provided traffic management.

Fire brigades from Woodend and Macedon attended the scene and extinguished the flames while both lanes were halted for15minutes. Asingle lane then re-opened while the scene wascleared.

Policereported no injuries were sustained and the incidentwas being treatedasnonsuspicious.

GWWcustomer session

GreaterWestern Waterisa hosting faceto-facecustomer careday in Gisborne on Thursday.

It is an opportunitytospeak with the GWWteam in person about abill, payment support, concessions and more.

TheGisborne session will be held at Gisborne Mechanics InstituteonThursday July 3from11.30am to 4pm.

To guaranteea dedicatedtime witha consultant, bookings arerecommended. Walk-ins arealso welcome.

Lancefield houseentersnew era

AmyHume

Lancefield Neighbourhood House's 'townhouse'has relocated and enteredanew era.

Thecommunityassethas provided the town with social connections, support and services formore than threedecades, and will continue to do so from its newsiteat5 The Crescent, Lancefield Team memberscelebrated the move last month, to atownhouse better fit forpurpose thatthe organisation nowowns.

Thepurchase wasmadepossible withthe support of agovernment grantand funds raised through its community op shop. Severallocal businesses have also chipped in to help getitupand running.

Servicing arangeofneeds from computer /printing access and social connection, to vital health appointmenttransport and food share services forthose struggling to make ends meet, there is afriendly team to help.

Operations manager VivienPhilpotts has seen theorganisation grow overthe yearsand understandsmore than most howsimple interactions between people there canchange lives forthe better

"I have seen people come in to do some photocopying and have it changetheir lives, because it led to an interaction thatsteered them down adifferentpath, or theycould have hadaconversation with someone thattheyreally needed,"Ms Philpottssaid.

"Providing aspace wherepeople

can just sit and talk is abig part of whatthis spaceisabout."

Thenew spaceisequipped with comfortable couches, adining area and kitchen forsocial interaction, as well as bathroom facilities, outdoor space, office area and food store, including six industrial fridges /freezes to support its Food Shareprogram.

Food Sharebegan as apartnership withRomseyNeighbourhood House and is available to people in the community struggling to makeends meet. People who register can access the food storeusing amonthly credit points based system.

Food stores arestocked through BendigoFoodshare, Secondbitevia Coles Woodend and ColesGisborne, Foodbank and donations from the local community

Community membersare also encouraged to swap,shareand take or donate food as needed. Donations of in-date foodsand excess produce arewelcomed.

"Someone mayhaveahugecrop of pearsorother food,and instead of thatgoing to waste, theycan either donate those or swap them forsomething else theyneed,"Ms Philpottssaid.

"Itoperatesonthe motto: 'take whatyou need, givewhatyou can', withthe philosophythatnoone should ever go hungry."

Anyone seeking support or wishing to makea donation is encouraged to contactthe neighbourhood house directly

Thenew townhouse is locatedat

5The Crescent, Lancefield, opposite the town hall.

An Opposition parliamentarian wantsthe stategovernmenttoprovide $1.5 million to convert heating at Gisborne Aquatic Centre from gas to electric heatpumps Member forNorthern Victoria, Wendy Lovell, told ParliamentthatMacedon Ranges ShireCouncil had already prepared designs and costings forthe project.

Ms Lovell urgedMinister forCommunitySport,Ros Spence, to provide agovernment grantof$1.5 million to council. Parliamentwas told theaquatic centre continued to grow in popularity, with about200,000 visitorsusing the facility in 2023-24.

"This project will meetagenuine community need,"MsLovell declared.

Shedrewattention to gas heating being expensive, with electric heatpumps being more economic as well as complying with governmentpolicy

Lancefield Neighbourhood House operations managerVivien Philpotts (right)ispictured

studentApril Hawkins outside the newtownhouse building.

Keeping warm in winter

Video on energy efficiency and reducing your gasand electricity bills

With temperatures plummeting at the arrival of winter, tenants of rented homes can nowaccess avideo on howtomaketheir home more comfortable and cost effective.

Thevideo wasdeveloped by the My Home Network Tenants Rights Working Group and the West EndResilienceEnergy Group following awell-received workshop on howsimple changes can improve energy efficiencyand reducegas and electricity bills.

MHN spokesperson Frankie Nugent said everyone deserved an affordable, comfortable home, howeverthis wasoften notthe case for manylocal residents, particularly tenants.

“The cost of housing also includes the cost of heating and cooling, and tenants oftendon’t have the same opportunities to improve the energy efficiencyoftheir rental or have equitable access to affordable renewable energy or renewable energy systems,”MsNugentsaid.

“This video will offertipsonhow to lower electricity and gas usage, which energy providersare best value, howtoloweryourbills and howtoconnect withrenting rights and supports.”

Alistar Robertson from WER said they had previously delivered successful workshops for home-ownersand nowwantedtoassist tenants.Thevideo can be accessed on Dhelkaya Health’s websiteatdhelkayahealth.org.au/ my-home-network and has been well received across the region and state.Itisbeing played on public screens and translatedintoother languages to reacha wider audience.

TheWest EndResiliencedrewuponthe expertise of My Home Network’sTenants’Rights Working Group to create the workshop and video. MHN group members offeredtheir first-

hand experience on whatitwas liketolivein energy inefficientrentals and howtonavigate whatcould be complexsystems of assistance forrenters

"Wehavereceived positivefeedback about this video. Many viewershavealready reported significantsavings, thanks to thesimple tips on reducing electricityand gas use shared in this video,"MsNugentsaid.

"This reflects the core of our work –raising awareness of tenants’rights among tenants, landlords, real estate agents and property developers.

"Inaddition to advocating forrental affordability,wehighlightavailable supportsand concessions thatcan help renters.

"Wealso provide valuable information on improving rental energy efficiencyand work toward structural changes thatensurerenters have equitable access to affordable renewable energy

"Bybuilding awareness of energy efficiency rebates, subsidies, and other landlordincentives, we aimtoensurethattenants can live comfortablyinenergy-efficienthomes."

West EndResilienceisa place-based community group open to anyone living on the west side of Castlemaine. They organise collective activities including social events,sharing gardening tips, house and neighbourhood projects, skills, toolsand equipmentsharing, collective cooking and look out forvulnerable neighbours.

My Home NetworkisauspicedbyDhelkaya Health and made up of passionate community members, locals with lived experience of the housing crisis, and representatives from local housing initiatives, community,and government organisations.

py atFromtheveryfirstmeetingwithBrendon completedRenderSolutionstheworkshavebeen inahighlyprofessionalmanner Ontime,onbudget,withgreatattentionto fodetailandaboveallelse,anawesometeam Forwhomnothingwastoomuchtrouble. forallthingsrenderingandpaintingwehave Solution.undRenderSolutionstobethePerfect Kindregards Olaf

Ready to read

This year marks twodecades of the Premiers’Reading Challenge.

Thechallenge, which finishes on thefirst FridayinSeptember,isthemed ‘20years of wordsand wonder’ and encourages children to discovernew books and aloveofreading. It is designed to inspirechildren and young people to develop alifelong love of reading while encouraging families to support reading at home.

Anychildren or families who would liketotakepart butare yettosign up, should visit: vic.gov.au/premiers-reading-challenge

DebPach, Alistar Robertson, Barry Murfett,Kaz Neilsonand Frankie Nugent developed the video.

Newchapter forbook store

Lancefield residents aresofond of their local bookstoretheyhavehatched a plan in abid to keep it open

RedDoor Books' ownersannounced in Mayplans to closethe much-loved store theyintroduced to thecommunity18 yearsago

Yesterdaymarkedtheir last daybehind the counter, but in their final weeks, an idea has emergedthat'scapturedthe town's imagination.

Acall went outonsocial media for expressions of interest from people interested in taking over thestore as a community co-operative.

"The idea is for50peoplewho would invest $10 per week to keep the shop operating,"the post read. "Ifthereisenough interest meetings will be organised to formulate the idea further."

Within just twodaysofthe message being posted 126 people had registered their interest.

Lancefield Neighbourhood House is

notdirectly involved with the co-op, but has helped facilitate conversation through its various platforms.

"Rather than lose something in community thatpeople value, this could offer another alternative,"LNH operations manager Vivien Philpottssaid.

"The LNH op-shop rentshalf of that building and lots of conversations have taken placeabout the differentpossibilities and the idea of aco-op wasraised.

"It'snot abad idea because it'snot about someone trying to find the funds to run it on their own. What it would look likeand howitwould operatewould be up to thegroup of people involved."

Theidea is in its infancy and research into amodel is still underway.A resident with someexperienceinaco-op model will meetwith the group to discuss options.

While RedDoor BooksownersEmma Stevens and John Webb will notbeinvolved in the co-op, theyhavewelcomed the idea.

"John and Ihavebeenreally big sup-

Second home for broken phones

School'sOut,aschoolholidayprogram run in the Macedon Ranges,iscurrently seeking donations to supportprograms for children overthe upcoming break.

It is looking forold dress-ups of all sizes, whether it be acostume, hatorother accessory,and unwanted technological devices. Anyone with an unused or brokenphone, tablet, laptoporcomputer can email admin@schoolsout.net.au formore information or to organise foritems to be dropped offatone of 10 locations across the region.

Children will learn to use the technologyinanunpoweredmanner,meaning it doesn't have to be functional.

portersofcommunity and social enterprise. To me,having acommunitybookshop because people want it, is perfect," Emma told the Express Emma and John said their decision to move on from the bookstorecomes after fulfilling their goalswith the business.

Sincetheybegan their venturetheir children have become adults.

They have enjoyedthe good of the community,but also seen big changes in the industry including therise of online book-sellers, Kindle, and the covid-19 pandemic

"Generally,people have lovedand supported the bookshop,"Emma said.

"The most telling part is howthe shop has fitted in to thecommunity and how it'sprovided something thatnothing else has.

"I suppose the fact that, totally independentofus, people want to keep itgoing, is evidenceofhow it'sbeen received."

Those who would liketobepart of the co-op processcan email: lancefieldcoop@ gmail.com

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

AmyHume

RedDoor Booksowners Emma Stevens andJohnWebb have ended achapterbut welcomed newcommunity ideas about the next forthe store.

CDOC explores themeoftruth

Thehighly anticipated11th instalment of the Castlemaine Documentary Film Festival opens this FridayJuly 4and runs through until this SundayJuly 6atCastlemaine's historic TheatreRoyal.

Tenincredible films will takeaudiences across the world, back in time and into the future.

Theevent kicksoff with the world premiereof Human Algorithm,which explores howartificial intelligenceischanging the waywethink and behave,and aperformanceartist literally turning his body into living art in Stelarc– Suspending Disbelief

When nightfalls, the CDoc team cranks it up:silent-film masterpiece ManWith a Movie Camera gets aliveelectronic music scorewith belovedMelbourne band, Underground Lovers Moda Discoteca; and on Saturdaynightthe boundary-blurring hybrid doco-musical Reas transforms a Buenos Aireswomen’s prison into astage of song and dance, followedbya live performancebythe local glam-pop band, Sugar FedLeopards thatwill have youup and dancing.

On Sundayevening Look IntoMyEyes from acclaimed filmmaker Lana Wilson offers acandid, oftenfunnyand surprisingly moving portrait of NewYork City psychics and the everydaypeople who consult them, seeking confirmation, comfort,or closureinthe welfareand whereabouts of parents, pets and absentfriends.

Wilson settles her gazeonthe private lives of sevenunconventional healers; creativetypes searching forsolaceand struggling to makedreams come true in acity of eightmillion people. They might notalwayshavethe answers–but in Look IntoMyEyes,sometimes the connection is comfort enough.

TheCastlemaine Documentary Festival Full Weekend Pass offers unbeatable value –access to all 10 screenings, plustheir signaturespecial events:two livegigs and LOCALS.

Festival Pass holderscan enjoydiscounts all weekend: a$30 pizza and drink deal (wine or beer)atTheatre Royaland 10 per cent offmeals plusa free wine or beer at Love Shack.

Each passalsoguarantees yougointo the draw to win abottleoflocally made ForêtDistillery Pastis and dinner fortwo at Boomtown Winery (drinks excluded).

To secureyour Festival Pass, Friday Double Pass or DayPass visit cdoff.com.au

Off market:land of thedead

Morgan Reinwald

Thelocal Anglican Parish has announced thereare "currently" no plans to sell St John's AnglicanChurch in Riddells Creek, contradicting astatement they made in Maythatsuggested otherwise.

Fr ScottMudd senta letter to parishionersonMay 12 and advised "Torealise the necessary funding forthe redevelopment of Fisher Street [Gisborne], we will be seeking approvalfrom the Diocese of Melbourne to sell the entiresiteofStJohn’s,Riddells Creek"

Thelettercited the sale's purpose wastorealise the "necessary funding" to redevelop the Parish Centre in Gisborne. It was co-signed by the three wardens of the local Parish Council.

David Latham,a political lobbyist and media advisor forthe Anglican Diocese of Melbourne, sentanemailtothe Express to provide an updatedstatement from thelocal Parish Council:

"After adiscussion with our congregation at St John's Anglican Church, Riddells Creek, it wasdecided that, due to the small and shrinking sizeofthe congregation there, we should pause services in thatlocation. We have found alternative options forthe sevenparishionersthathavebeenattending St John's.Wehavearranged forthese parishionerstobe transported to and from nearby Anglican Churches at Gisborne and Macedon, and to connect them with other parishioners from those congregations. There arecurrently no plans in placeto sell the Riddells Creek property or put it on the market"

Going Once…Going Twice…

Rachael Thompson, aresident of Riddells Creekfor morethan 20 years, has abackground in financeand joined the parish in September last year to become moreinvolvedinthe community.

Shewas at the meeting when theytold parishionerstheywere closing it down.

"Itwas so surreal and weird. Ladies were crying,"MsThompsonsaid.

"Theysaid, 'we're going to go bankruptifwedon't sell the church'."

Ms Thompson offeredtolook at the church finances.

"When Ilooked at thebudget, therecould be alittle bit of tweaking, but they'reabsolutely notgoing 'bankrupt'.There is enough foreverybody in all three churches across the three towns. Whyclose it down when it'sa growing community?"

Other sourceswithin the church argued the regional Parish is financially burdened and therehavebeenplans to sell the Riddells Creek sitefor years. Property.com had thechurch's address listed forsale in Jun 2015 and images portrayed a developer'sdigitally generated house on the property

St Johns is labelled with a 'local significance' andheritage overlayfromthe Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil, so if it were to be sold, the digitally generated house on Property.com couldn't be built whereStJohn'sstands without apermit from council.

Across Australia, Anglican Dioceses have been selling offtheir churches– mainly in regional areas –inrecentyears due to financial strains and dwindling congregations.

The ABC has reported the Anglican Diocese of North Queensland was“on the brink of financial collapse”and the Anglican Diocese of Tasmania wasselling off"morethan 100 properties" to assist in funding the $8.6 million required to compensate victimsofchild sex abuse.

However, many sales have been hindered by graveyards on church grounds. Thebodies need to be removed, otherwise

KYNETONMEDICAL CENTRE

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theyare subjecttoacovenant thatallowspublic access for worship. St John’s mayalsobe subject to this.

Land of the dead

TheDiocese of Melbourne said theydid nothavethe burial recordsofStJohn’s in their possession, however, a source within the churchsuggested therewereoncetwo gravestones onsite.

Thesourceconfirmed the local parish has aphoto proving this.

The Express obtained alowquality version of this photo, wherethe tombstones are said to have been. Thereisno understanding at presentof whathappened to them, or if

possible bodies arestill buried there.

‘Local Significance’ St John's hasbeen at its current sitefor 99 years, but has operated from 1858 over two locations. The Gisborne Gazette reported St John's centenary in 1964.It, too, provided a statementfromthe local Parish Council at the time: "A centenary is agreat event in the lifeofa person, atown, or achurch... We have received from the pioneers apriceless heritage. Howwill we hand it on to thosewho in another one hundred yearswill be celebrating the second centenary of St John's?"

Time will tell

ThelocalAnglicanParishhas announced thereare “currently” no plans to sell St John’s Anglican Church in Riddells Creek.

An old photo looks to depict twotombstones in the church grounds.

Soundsand stories of the creek Sounds annd stoories

Jade Jungwirth

Iamsomeone who is guilty of not spending enough time in nature. Of being the sort of person who rushes around, darting from picking kids up,and hurrying from an interview, to grocery shopping.

When Idotakethe time to be out in natureI am oftenstill fast in my stride, and my thoughts, which move rapidly from kids to work, to whattocook for dinner

Fortunately,mywork brings me in contact with some phenomenal people, anda variety of experiences thatopenmyeyesto seeing the world from adifferentangle.

Oneofmytasks this week, wasto writeabout anew sound walk along the Campbells Creek Track thatmeanders through thebush behind the busyroad that stretches from Castlemaine to Campbells Creek.

Compiled by Campbells Creeklocal RobLaw,who has abackground in both environmental scienceand sound production, thesound walk is full of the sounds of nature from different times of dayand spread throughoutthe year

Theinterviews on thesound walk are withlocals who areare knowledgeable about differentelements of the creek, from micro-bats, to plants, and history

Listening to them feels likegoing on a walk with afriend, hearing their unique perspectives and gaining fascinating insights into the different elements of the landscape.

Throughoutthe walk Ifelt achangein the waymybodyfelt, the wayI listened, the things Isaw and the wayI walked. Hearing local FirstNations Peoples talking about the importanceofconnecting to Country,made me viewconnection to the

natural environmentaround me differently

Robtold me thatovertime he has started to listen to thecreek moreand he wanted otherstohavethatsameopportunity to connect with the urban waterway and hear the differentlayers.

"The goal of this project is to invite people down theretospend some time, getting to knowit, slowing down and listening moredeeply,rather than just passing through forexercise, because it'smuch more than that," he said.

"Through doing this project,I uncovered all of these amazing people who livehere, who have some knowledgeofthe creek thatisspecific.

"Thereare arangeofdifferentperspectives as well, from children through to people thathavebeenheretheir whole lives and areintheir 80s, which gives that sense of howthe placechanges over time as well,"Rob said.

Living alongside thecreek Robhas noticed ahugeupsurge sincethe missing link opened last month, with at least a600 per cent increase in usage.

"I'vebeen down therea lotwithmy kids and their friends and spending time in their world and watching howfor them, theyare already very immersed in it, and we kind of have this separation, but they arevery much in theplace, Ithink that's importantfor adultstothink about howwe relearn that, thereisnoboundary forthem between their imaginativeworld and what we call thereal world.

"Being able to tapintothatsense of wonder thattheyhaveand we forget about as we become adults."

Downloading the sound walk is really simple. Allyou have to do is visit: soundtrails.com.au/campbells-creek download the apponthe apple storeorGoogle

Be wary of $300 slug

Dogand catownersinTrentham and other parts of Hepburn Shireare going to be up fora $300 penalty if their animal is found wandering at large

Theshirecouncil has just ratified thenew $300 fine to help cutcosts.

Thecouncil has previously offereda 'free ride home'for your dogorcat if it happens to be at large andisa firstoffender

Council has acknowledged thatanimals areoften an importantpart of afamily

If awandering dogorcat is found to be unregistered as well, the owner willbe required to seeitisregistered.

Council'svery detailed budget,withtough times seemingly ahead in 2025-26, wasadoptedbycouncil on a5-2 vote at itsmeeting last week.

Play (makesureyou giveitaccess to your location as it is connected to your GPS), grab apair of headphones and head down to either endofthe track (atthe Forest Street entrancethrough to theCampbells Creek playground), open the app and once you'reinplaceitwill takeyou on an incred-

journeythrough

*Makesuretopractise your walkers acknowledgmentnod to giveasyou pass fellowwalkersbecause it has become quite apopular spot!

ible

the beautiful hidden wilderness thatsits rightinthe middle of suburbia.

RobLaw has createda beautiful sound walk to follow as youwalk alongsidethe creek from Castlemaine to CampbellsCreek. Photo:Carmen Bunting.

Aone hundredyearlesson

What is thelesson afather, poet,farmer,black jack playerand WWII veteranlearntinlife?

Morgan Reinwald

At Bupa Aged Care in Kyneton, Rachel Hewitt and RobShawofthe Woodend Warblersholdthe attention of silentstaff and the non-sleeping residents. They sing DannyBoy

Their sounds areinterruptedbya residentwho croons between their lyrics. It’s John Wyke “Fromglen to glen, and down the mountainside,”he cries.

Aladyinthe back joins in: “The summer’sgone, and all the roses falling”

By the time the refrain comesround, the entireroom of elderlymen and women arealive, concerted and singing in unison, “DannyBoy,Iloveyou so”.

It's an emotional momentfor the room.The ballad, aparent’sfarewell to theirchild going offtowar,isan experiencemanyofthem lived through in WWII. Tears were shed in the room,overmemories most living cannotfathom.

None knows the experience morethan John, who celebrated his 100th birthdaythatday.Hewas a rear-gunner in the war’smostdevastating plane –the Lancaster Bomber.Inside this aircraft, he carried out 12 daring operations, each notwithout consequence.

He recalled leaving the base full of men foranoperation and returning to find one lone soldier cleaning his gun. The rest were no longer.Orthe time he rescued malnourished British POWs and flewthem home, heartbroken at their appearance.

What wasgoing through his head when theengines began to whir,and he prepped theguns to take flightfor an operation he toomightn't return from?

thinks it might'vebeen in Cologne wherea rather famous World HeritageListed Cathedral resides.

He also took park in Operation Manna, ahumanitarian effort to drop food in theGerman-occupied Netherlands during the winterof1945 to alleviate the severe famine caused by the German blockade.

“Weflewlow and dropped barrels,”hesays, before recalling aboy on the ground with awheelbarrow.“[The barrell] landed rightinhis wheelbarrow,” he says with asmile.

“Nothing,”hesaid. “I had ajob to do. Ijust focused on the job.”

He maintainshis optimism, and canspin multiple yarns with asmile about his timeduring the war.

He recalls bombing Germanyand getting so lost the pilot had to fly lowtoread the signageatarailway station. It was so cloudy theynearly took out the spireofa church. He

In 1952, the ‘Ten Pound Pom’ soughta newlifeinAustralia and didn’t hesitate signing up to theRSL. He has life membership and received the Meritorious Awardfor looking afterother veterans, completing hospital visits, running Anzac Day services and speaking at funerals –for which he wasrevered. Oneonly has to head to theRSL in Kynetonto hear the legend of John Wyke

Buthis lifehas been much morethan those fewyearsin

the war. He’s alwayshelped otherswheneverhecould, whether it wasteaching aneighbour to drive, teaching another neighbour stonework, or saving the Anglican Church in Neerim.

Even at 95, he wasdriving the “oldies”fromthe aged care centre around, despitethem being younger than himself.It’s part of who he isand these examples don't even begin to scratch the surface.

When asked whathehad learned after100 yearson Earth, Wyke stares into spacefor amomentwith wide eyes, then slowly leans overwith an air of wisdom. He says two words: “giveback”

Simple in composition, it'sanexpression manywould find difficult to executeona recurring basis. ButJohn’s done this for100 years. It wasn’t forfame or recognition –itwas to live afulfilling life.

Andhe’snot done yet.

BUSINESS BUSINES

John Wyke celebrateshis 100th birthday.

Ayoung John Wyke during the war.

mtoring g

Where aremostcarsstolenfrom in Victoria?

Most motorvehicle theftsoccur on the street or footpath, accounting for30per cent (8569) of all vehicles stolen in Victoria in 2024. However, alarge proportion are also stolen from residential locations such as houses and apartments –23per cent (6586) from aprivatedwelling and 18 per cent (5193) from residential grounds such as a garage, carport,lawnordriveway

Single-leveland multi-levelpublic carparks arealso apopular targetfor thieves, accounting for10per cent (2878) of all motorvehicles stolen in Victoria in 2024, while retail locations suchasshopping centresmade up 6 per cent (1658).

RACV general manager of motoring productsJeff Ames urgedall Victorians to complete acar security check, as the statistics were showing it wasfar tooeasy forthievestoaccess valuables in acar –and to stealthe car itself

“Opportunistic thieveswill break into or entera car andtakepossessions that areeasily visible from outside the vehicle, oftenusing the opportunity to stealthe car itself,” he said.

“It’scrucial to protect your vehicle, including when it’s parked at home, in the streetoreveninsecurecarparks. If your car is parked at homeinadriveway, this doesn’t mean it’scompletely safe either –don’t forget to lock the

doors, wind up windows andensurenothing valuable is in plain sight.”

Neighbourhood WatchVictoria CEOBambi Gordon said ownersneeded to be vigilantand alert to suspicious behaviour

“Crime is opportunistic and we can remove thatopportunity by keeping an eyeoneachother,reporting crimes and suspiciousbehaviour when we see it and using preventativesecurity measures,”she said.

Wherever possible, Gordon recommends parking in alocked garageoratleast behind alocked gate so that it takes away the opportunityfor an offender to quickly jump into andsteal the car.

Other ways to reduceat-home vehicle theftinclude installing sensor lights and security cameras, ensuring garageaccess pointsare highly visible and neverletting an unfamiliar car follow youintoa communal garage.

Afternumberplates, powertoolswerethe second most stolen item from acar,which highlights the need for tradespeople to protect their tools at home, on the road and at work.Neighbourhood Watch, supported by RACV, has launched ‘How safe is my vehicle?' –anonline quiz designed to help ownersprotect their carsand belongings from theft. Youcan findthe quiz online at howsafeismyplace.com.au/vehicle.

Safe driving tips for stormyconditions

Storms can strikeatany time, including while driving. Storm conditions such as rain, hail and strong winds can all affect your ability to drivesafely

Extreme weather conditions can reduceyourability to seethe road,withdrivers advised to slowdownand increase your distancefromother vehicles if visibility deteriorates. Turn your headlights on to increase your visibility forother vehicles, and avoidusing your high beams unless travelling on adark road,remembering to dip your lights when thereis oncoming traffic

If youcan no longer see past your bonnet, then it’s time to pull over as soon as it’ssafe to do so. Pulling into acovered servicestation or carpark is agood option, if available. Don't park your car under trees or near powerlines, or near bodies of water thatmightflood during the storm.

Make aplan

Preparefor aflood and create aplan in advancethatincludes asaferoutetoa designated evacuation pointoutside the floodplainand on high ground. Your local council can provide information on these locations. Keep in mind thatyou should neverdrivethrough floodwaters,therefore have an alternate routeplanned in case aroad is cut off. VICSESwarns thata car can float in as little as 15cm.

Glamping permit rejection

From time-to-timeshire councils in ruralVictoria find theyhavetowrestle with the complexities of planning applications to usefarming land fornon-farming activities.

Last week HepburnShire Council made adecisionto reject an application forglamping on asiteofjust over 20 hectares in the farming zone.

Theapplicantsought permission to utilise partof the land forluxury camping in fixed tents, which would provide short-term holiday accommodation forguests.

Thenon-agriculturaluse would constitute acamping and caravanpark.

Therewere16 objections lodged against the proposal forthe land at Franklinford, 8.4 kilometres north of Hepburn.

Theplanning department recommended apermit be refused.

Councillorsengaged in some detailed debate,with questions raised about possible firerisk, and whether non-agricultural activities were really wanted in the farming zone.

Further fragmentation of farming land wasopposed by the majorityofcouncillors.

Therefusal motion was carried 6-1, with Cr Brian Hood the lone dissenter.

Feastingand daring to believe

Becausethat’swhat factsdo. Theyget in theway of wild theories,sensational headlines,and storiesthat arejust too good to be true.And that’s the point

Real journalism isn’t about chasingclicks or stirring outrage. It’s about accountability. It’s about getting the story right not just being the firsttotalk about it

It’s about knowing your communityand knowing what matters most

Because when the truth matters, shortcutsdon’tcut it

We believe factsmakestories stronger,not weaker

That’swhy everything we publish is grounded in independence, integrityand an unwavering commitmenttoaccuracyand the communityweare partof.

Truth isn’t asingle person’spoint of view

It’s aresponsibility. Andit’sone we take seriously Trust journalism to deliver youthe truth

For12years,Mohammad (not his real name)lived with uncertainty and dread. Now, he can at last dareto believe In 2013, he fled Afghanistan in fear forhis life. Targetedbythe Taliban, he wasforcedtoleave hiswifeand children behind. Thedistress he felt can barely be imagined –all he wanted was to be reunited with his lovedones and become oncemorethe family man he wasalwaysmeant to be.

Sincearriving in Australia, he has been allowedtowork. This entitlement, denied to manyrefugees, has assisted his integration into Australian society He is aproud and willing taxpayer. Mohammad has links with the Macedon Ranges, having visited with a‘getting to know’ eventhosted by Macedon Ranges RuralAustralians for Refugees.

In 2023, with the granting of permanentresidency,hewas allowedto apply forreunification with his family Afteran18-month wait, his application has at last been successful.

Hisfriends aredetermined to celebrate. On Saturday July 19 at 12.30pm, afundraising lunchwill be held in Woodend to help Mohammad coverthe cost of bringing his family to Australia and of setting up theirhome near Dandenong.

All arewelcome. Theafternoon will provide an opportunity forfriends and well-wisherstomeetand support Mohammad and family.Details and tickets areavailable on the Trybooking website at:www.trybooking.com/DCTBS If you would liketodonate butare unable to attend,you can enquireat: info@macedonranges-rar.org

Conversations about life, death and dying

Themonthly Good Grief Loungereturns to theNorthern Arts Hotelthis SaturdayJuly 5.

This month's special guests arelawyerVesna Pocuca of Robertson Hyetts and arts therapist Marita Jacobsson.

Vesna will explain how to make awill and Marita of Thresholds ArtTherapy will lead apoetrywriting experience using pre-cut words, block out texts, short Japanese Haiku poems and listening to poems connected to grief, as an introduction to living with grief. Feel free to bring apoem to share.

TheGood GriefLoungeis asafe, embracing place to talk aboutdeath anddying, to listen, learn and sharewith peoplewho careinarelaxed environment with music,morning tea and a couple of talks.

Good Griefeventsfounder and facilitatorJillRiversiscommitted to healing through arts, culture andcommunity and has written abookonthe subject–TheArts Apothecary

Jill says the thepurpose of the events is to inform, reduce fear of end of life, to turnaround denial and celebratedeath as part of life.

Vesna Pocuca of Robertson Hyettswill address the topic of making awill.

"I am grateful to Vesna Pocucafor addressing the manypeople who have notyet made and will, and to Marita Jacobsson forlightening griefinour lives,"Jillsaid.

This free eventisa follow-on from theGood Griefeventsatthe 2025 Castlemaine FringeFestival and is held monthly on the firstSaturdayofeach month. Register your attendanceatevents.humanitix.com/good-grief-lounge

Detailed AdvanceCarePlan booklets will be available at the Lounges for$20.

Thesession will runfrom11am-1pm youcan findthe Northern Arts Hotelat359 Barker Street,Castlemaine.

Call Jill Rivers on 0418

or email hello@art-fullliving.com

Mohammad’ with Woodend friends, Bill and Marg Hebb

ATO warns taxpayers: Don’t lodge yet!

TheAustralian Taxation Office is warning taxpayers nottolodge their tax returns until theirincome statementismarkedas‘taxready’ and data has been pre-filled by the ATO.

Last year 142,000 people who lodged in the first twoweeks of July had to lodgeamendments, or had their returns investigated andamended by the ATOtofix inaccuracies in their tax return, for example, income thathad notbeen declared properly

ATOAssistantCommissioner RobThomson said thatwaiting until late July allowedfor the ATO to prefill information in your tax return.

"Weknowdoing your tax return is something to tick offyourto-do list each year,but there’snoneedtorush. Thebest time to lodgeisfromlateJuly onceeverything is ready,"MrThomson said.

"Wepre-fill information from your employer, banks, governmentagencies and health funds into your taxreturn to help youget it rightthe first time– regardless of whether youuse aregistered tax agentor lodge yourself."

Waiting forthis information to be prefilled reduces thelikelihood of mistakes or omissions thatcan oftenresult in taxpayers having to submit an amendment, which can cause issues and delays fortaxpayers

"Ifyou wait until late July to lodge, all youneed to do is check your information, add anything that’s missing and include any deductions or offsets thatyou’reeligible for," Mr Thomsonsaid

"Ifyou’rekeen to getyourducks in arow before youlodge, makesureyou have all the necessary records, ensure your personal information and bank details areuptodateand check theATO occupation guides to see what deductions youmay be able to claim.

"The ATOisalsoencouraging taxpayersto

download theATO appand setupa strong digital identitytoprotect themselves this tax time to ensureyour interactions online are safe and secure. Theapp notonly allows you to keep recordsofyourworkand general expenses but it will keep your information safe,including notifying youofany suspicious activityonyouraccount."

Once your employerhas finalised your income statement,itwill be marked as ‘tax ready’.Taxpayers cancheck if their income statementis‘taxready’,aswell as if pre-fill is available in myTaxprior to lodging or in the ATOapp

The changesfromtoday,July 1

It's the beginning of the financial year and from today, governmentreform will mean increased wagesfor low-paid workers, cutstostudentdebtand increased parental leave.Superannuation will also increase, howevernot everyone will benefit.

TheFair Work Commission announced thatthose on the National Minimum Wage would receivea 3.5 per cent wage increase to $948 per week, or,$24.95 per hour, based on a38-hour work week from the first full payperiod on or afterJuly 1.

StudentHECSdebtwill be cutby20 per cent and is settoimpact aboutthree million Australians.

guaranteeratewill

from 11.5 per cent to 12 per cent,marking the end of afive-year setofincreases employers have to paytotheir employees.

Prime Minister AnthonyAlbanese said it would be "the first pieceoflegislation" his re-elected governmentwould pass. It means someone with a$60,000 studentloan will have $12,000 cut from this debtwhen theysubmit their tax return

Parentsofnewborns arealso going to benefit in the newfinancial year as the number of paidparental leave days willincrease from 110 days (22weeks)to120 days (24 weeks)for parents of children born or adoptedafter July 1.

Thesuperannuation guaranteeratewill also increase from 11.5 per cent to 12 per cent,marking theend of afive-year setofincreases employers have to paytotheir employees. It means a30-year-old on a$100,000 salary will have an extra$125,000 by retirement. However, noteveryone is benefiting from thenew changes.

Thereisa newpolicy introduced by the federal Labor governmenttotax unrealised gains on assetappreciation. It means an individual's superannuation witha balancethat exceeds $3 million will have an extratax of 15 per cent,a changethatwill impact 80,000 Australian from today. Theagricultural sector has been most critical of the legislation.

Farmershaveplaced their landintosuperannuation accounts fordecades as aretirementstrategy,and thereare an estimated 3500 superannuation accounts holding farmland worth more than $3 million across Australia. Givenfarmersdon't earn regular salaries, this adopted superannuation strategy has allowedland to be used as aretirementasset,and pass thefarmtotheir children.

Thetax on these unrealised gains will placefurther stress on farmers amid already difficult droughtconditions.

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

Thesuperannuation

TheATO is encouraging taxpayers to download the ATOapp and set up astrong digital identity to protect themselves this tax time.

Timeless choral pieces

Australia’s best emerging choral singers, the National YouthChoir of Australia, will be performing at Castlemaine's AnglicanChurchonFridayJuly 11.

Thechoir will be performing timeless choral repertoire from Byrd to Monteverdi and Tavener to Pärt, including notable Australian works from NaomiCrellin, Carl Crossin and Anne Cawrse.

Formorethan twodecades, NYCA hasoperated as anationally auditioned SATB chamber choir forsingersaged18-26. Bringing together Australia’smost outstanding young adult singersfromall states andterritories, theymeetannuallyfor an intensiveworkshop week culminating in aseries of public concerts.

Theduration of the concert is one hour.The eventgetsunder wayat6.30pm. Ticketscan be booked on Trybooking.com.DCRCC or viathe websiteofthe National Youth Choir

So much more to know

With adash of confidenceand amusic industry truth, ‘The GreatUnknown’ arepretty greatand mostly unknown. They aresimultaneously sweetand gritty, acoustic and electric, bluesy and rootsy

They arrivedatthe name in 2016 when the newly formed group performed wonderfulsongs thatwere notwell known. Honouring greatsongs thattheyloved, they knewpunters would feel the sameway.Agood song, known or otherwise, is agood song.

Additionally,the name hintedatthe journeyoflife and thereafter.The poetry and rhythm of meaning, knowing that younever know– the greatunknown. Thestuff of songwriting.

Over time, theband movedtowriting originals, which is notalwaysthe easiest undertaking. Forthis band, letting go to letithappen, trusting one another and the process, resulted in four sensational CDs. Their exploration of styles and marrying mood to lyrics, quite simply,works.

Butwhy notsee them live! ‘The GreatUnknown’are playing at the Taproom in Castlemaine on SundayJuly 13 from 5-7. ‘The

With twovocalists, twoguitarists, double and electric bass, drums and percussion, this group is solid on stageand off. They aregreat friends, creating greatmusic.Their musical diversity deliversacrowd-pleasing result, thereissomething foreveryone. They have pagesonFacebook, YouTube and awebsite –www.thegreatunknown.info

Concerts explore historicbuildings

Anew classical music festival is happening throughout the goldfields region in July and will include concerts at Castlemaine and Maldon.

The Keys of Gold concert series will feature11stunning venues, 27 incredible instruments and 45 world class performers.

This festival is aprogram of unique concerts, exploring the region’s historically significantchurches and buildings and the keyboardinstruments hidden within them. Other venues will include sites across Bendigoand Inglewood.

Thefestival is directed by renowned international organist Thomas Heywood.

Theconcert in Castlemaine on SaturdayJuly 12 will be shared between the Uniting Churchand the Anglican Church, which aretwo uniquebuildings both with unique pipeorgans.

Thefirst partofthe concert in the Uniting Churchwill featurepopular choralclassicssung by the BendigoChamber Choir directed by Castlemaine identity Michael Bottomley.

This will include music by Mozart, Handel, Haydnand Faureinterspersed with Thomas Heywood playing exciting organ solos.

A20-minuteintervalthen gives time forthe concert to move across the road to the Anglican Churchwherethe programtakes on astrongand exciting programoforgan and choral music by 20th centuryFrench composers.

TheBendigoChamber Choir will perform Jean Langlais’s Messe Solennelle,which has equal exciting choral and organ sections.

Theconcert concludes with the famous organ solo Carillon de Westminster by Louis Vierne.

This concert across twovenues will demonstratethe beauty,powerand versatility of both organs in Castlemaine.

On SaturdayJuly 19 the focus will shift to Maldon's Trinity Anglican Churchwhereflautist Masahide Kurita and organist Thomas Heywood exploreanintriguingprogram of music by Parry,Bach, Boellmann and Doppler.

Ticketscan be purchased through theKeysofGoldwebsitewww.bendigofinemusic.com or areavailable at the door

TheNational Youth Choir of Australia will visit Castlemaine on July 11.

Thefestival is being directed by renowned international organist Thomas Heywood.

GreatUnknown’are prettygreat and mostly unknown.

Celebrating music,danceand culture

Castlemaine is settohost awonderful performanceofmusic, danceand culturefromthe Indian Ocean region when Salama performs at the Phee BroadwayTheatre on July 3at7.30pm.

Salama is an award-winning group from Perth that specialises in Maloya andSega music from Reunion Island and surrounds. Maloya is a300-year-old performance tradition drawing from Malagasy, African and Tamil cultures, originating from Réunion Island in the Indian Ocean.

Lead singer,dancer Muriel Hillion Toulcanon, is familiar to Castlemaine audiences, having presentedthe Maloya Moshpit at the 2023 Castlemaine Festival in collaboration with PunctumInc. This time she brings her talentedgroup of Creole musicians from Perth to Victoria for the first time to perform twovery special shows –one in Melbourne and one in Castlemaine.

Primary students from region will also experiencea special workshop on the Thursdaywheretheywill learn about the special French language, culture, music and dancefromReunion Island.

These activities areproudly supported by MountAlexander ShireCouncil and the West Australian Government. Ticketsat: events.humanitix.com/salama-reunionisland-maloya-music

Winter’s bounty at Castlemaine Farmers Market

This SundayJuly 6, the Western ReserveinCastlemaine comesto lifewith about70producersofgreat local staples, treats, beverages and moreheading overtotrade direct to thecommunity

This market hasbeen creating agreat vibranttrading spacefor local farmersand producersfor the past22yearsand operates through all seasons. Following this greatrain, Mineral Springs Truffles areexpected to maketheir market debut and market organisers recommend being in early forthose tastymorsels!

O'Callaghans Irish Fruitcake– made in Malmsbury– return with their family recipe cakes "thatwill have family and guestsfeeling super warm and loved!" said marketmanager,Meggs Hannes. Lucerne Lane eggs of Lockington arelooking forwardtoseeing eager eggeatersastheir hens have increased production of late Look out formarket daydeals on traysofeggs. Spring Creek Organic and Sandor'sHarvest will have an abundance of super sweetroot vegetables and leafy greens, made all the sweeterbyfrosty mornings endured recently Oakwood Smallgoods bring amazing ingredients foryour soups and stews, as well as home-cooked soups to take home foraneasy meal foryour Sundaynight. Returning to market areCrossies Cados –fresh picked bacon avocados, lemons, tahitian limes and imperial mandarins all direct from their farm at Torrumbarry up near Echuca. Sourdough breads, sweettreats, seasonal fruits, honey, fresh pasta –gnocchi, plants, chickens, pies, herbal preparations, mushrooms, extensivemarket dayfoods,other refreshments and more! Themarket is on from 9am to 1pm this SundayatWestern Reserve.

Get creative at Dromkeen

Dromkeen HomesteadatRiddells Creek has awinterprogram of events to keep visitorscosyand creative. School Holiday Cartooning Workshops –Createa Cartoon withBrett Cardwell. Session 1– Create Cartoon Characters 10am-10.45am $15.

Session 2–CreateComic Strips 11am11.45am $15.

Bookings: www.trybooking.com/DCTCG

Dromkeen's Memories and Mulled Wine Annual MidwinterStorytelling Evening, An Unexpected Encounter,invites you to come with afive-minute story or come just to listen. It begins with aglass of mulled wine and finishes with adelicious supper afterthe storytelling. Date:Friday July 18, 7-9pm.

Take aMidwinterWatercolour Painting Class with artist RayRattenbury.Ray will demonstratepreparation of wash, then painting of alandscapesky.Nextthe class

will painttheir ownversion.Ray will then demonstratepainting heritagecarrots to the class, and the classwill painttheir ownversion.Time permitting, Raywill demonstratepainting of gum trees and farm buildings, then the class will paint their ownversion.

Date:SaturdayJuly 26, 9.30-1pm Cost: $100. Bookings: www.trybooking.com/ DCHHQ

Dromkeen's winterartshow, AMoment’s Pause,features the work of more than 30 regional artists as well as beautiful original illustrations from theawardwinning picturebook, TheLast Tree,about the old growth forests in Australia by Mark Wilson. Thegallery is open from WednesdaytoSunday, 10am to 5pm. Glenn Douglas presents TheNeil Diamond Show at Dromkeen, on FridayJuly 4 from 7-9pm. Cost: $38. Bookings: www trybooking.com/DBYIW

This market runs year round, rain, hail or shine! Let's showthe love forour region's producers at this Sunday's ripper monthly farmers market! Approx.70producers from Djarra country and beyond Shopping here builds our local food production, community while nourishing youaswell!

Returning to market areCrossies Cados

–fresh picked bacon avocados, lemons,Tahitian limes and imperial mandarins alldirect from their farmatTorumbarry up near Echuca.

Salamaspecialises in Maloya and Sega music from the Reunion Islandregion.

Pictured Pepo Farms

@ YourOPINIONS

Honouringall who served Ian

Braybrook,Castlemaine

Ireluctantly respond to Grant Taylor of Malmsbury ('Adisappointing view', Opinions,June 24) who seems to believe thatI wasdisrespectful to Aboriginal military people in my letter regarding the name of Castlemaine’s Victory Park. He says Iam ‘clearly notaware’ofIndigenous people who served in the military

Iassurehim thatIamvery well awareofAboriginal people’s serviceinour armed forces. Afew yearsago Ilearned agreat deal when Iproduced anational radio programtitled ‘The BlackDiggers’. TheCBAAjudged it ‘Australia’s Best Aboriginal Program’. Ilearned alot from that research experience Ihavealso worked alongside numerous Aboriginal people and read manybooks on their people and customs. Ibelieve IhavemoreknowledgeofIndigenous Australians than most.

Icertainly have no prideinwhatour forebears did to thenativepeople, but Ifeel we aremaking genuine progress towardsmakingamends.

Butinregardtothe subjectofattempts at renaming Castlemaine’sVictory Park as Djarra/ Victory Park

This reservewas established to honour those of this districtwho served Australia in World WarI; anyDjarrapeople included. No distinction, be they male, female, of Indigenous heritageorEuropean heritage.

It is Victory Park. Always was. Always will be.

Haltthe destructive salvageworks

Gayle Osborne, convenor, WombatForestcare

Thecentral west of Victoria is home to wonderful indigenous plants and animals, manyofwhich

SUPER QUIZ?

Local knowledge (1 point)

1. When is the Lancefield FarmersMarket typically held each month?

2. Howmanylibraries areinthe Macedon Ranges?

3. Over what dateswill the Castlemaine Documentary Festival takeplace?

4. Whowon ExcellenceinCustomer Service– Professional, Retail and Service in the TelstraMacedon Macedon Ranges CommunityChoiceAwards2025? (3 points)

5. WhoisCastlemaine Football Netball Club’s newlyannounced senior coachfor season 2026?

General knowledge (1 point)

6. WhoplayedAtticus Finchinthe 1962 film To Kill aMocking Bird?

7. Colombia’s national flag features yellow, blue and whatother coloured horizontal stripe?

8. What is the US state flowerofHawaii?

9. I’ll be Therefor You by TheRembrandts featured as the theme song to which 90s US sitcom? (3 points)

10. In whatocean

(Bonus point:

arethreatened withextinction and manyofwhich arefound in ourstate forests. As state forests are managed fortheir resources, it is importantthatareas of high ecological value aretransferred to Parks Victoria managementtobeprotected from timber extraction and mining. Four yearsago,the Victorian governmentpromised to create three newnational parks and arangeofother parksand reserves in the centralwest of Victoria. This included anew Wombat-LerderdergNational Park, which has strong populations of endangered species such as greaterglidersand mountain skinks.

While we wait forthe promised legislation for the parks to be presentedtoparliament, large volumes of fallen logs arebeing salvaged from the WombatForest causing greatenvironmental damage. We call on thegovernmenttoimmediately legislate allthe promisedparks and halt the destructivesalvage works.

Stillwaiting to open!

Peter Henderson, Kyneton

In referencetoMacedon Ranges ShireCouncil seeking answersonthe former KynetonPrimary School site(‘Council seeks answersonschoolsite’, Midland Express,April 1) and my followup(‘Maybe that’stoo sensible’, Opinions,April 15) in this newspaper,nofurther communication has been forthcoming from the state governmentorthe relevant authorityCreativeVictoria.

Correspondencewas sentbymetoColin Brooks MP and CreativeVictoria on June 1and again on June 16 and finally Ireceived aphone call advising someone would ring me backregarding this matter Afew days laterI did receivea phone call advising the sitemanagementhad notbeen decided, and theywould advise the communityonly when that happened.

Thesitereceived a$12 million refurbishmentto

the bluestone building and still almost 12 months later, the whole sitestands abandoned, this is ourtax dollarsatwork and it is notgoodenough. Threelocal communitygroupshad initially sentsubmissions to governmenttorun the sitebut were notoffered $12 million, or forthatmatterany funding at all. I’m surewithhalf that moneythe sitewould have been opened and functioning forthe good of the localcommunity.

Initially thesitewas to be takenoverby BendigoArt Gallery,then Working Heritage, nowitseems both have bowedout

My guess is thatthe bluestone section, although refurbished very well, doesnot enable management groups flexibility andfinancially viability

Without thecream brickbuilding, which would allowa multitude of commercial operations and communityactivityand is the cornerstone of the whole site, the sitewill be hardpressed to operate financially

It seemsthe budget willnot allowfurther work to update therearcream brick building, and it maysit idle foryears?

We await further communityconsultation, or maybe anycommunication whatsoever.

Historic churchimportant

John Ball, Riddells Creek

Thehuffing and puffing by the AnglicanChurchabout whether it is closing the historic Church of St John in Riddells Creekignores the fact thatchurch officialstoldmeontwo recent separateoccasions thatitwas, indeed, shutting itsdoors andits future “would be up to the developers”. Butthis is no time forargument, it is timetodoanassessmentofthe historic natureofthe church and its“setting in ahistoric precinct” —words used by aMacedon Ranges ShireCouncil hired professional and published in areport in 2010. It is worth noting thatStJohn’sis99yearsold and about to,hopefully,celebrate its centenary.It’salso timetoponderfutureusesfor thechurch, apart from keeping it open forweddings,funeralsand baptisms.

Twothoughts come to mind: Thechurchas amusical centre foryouth .and the hall perhaps as acentre fora group such as Greening of Riddell, which actually began in 1985 withchurch help at the backofthe historic site. In contrast tothe gloom in Melvins Road, at the other end of town, the venerable timber Mechanics Hall,popular as adancetraining venuefor children and oncepopular forbush dances, is nowhappily drawing upplans for its 150thanniversary!

Thetwo lovely buildings, plus the Catholic community’sStAmbrose’s Church(the Irish and ScotsCatholic families on the Mountinthe 1850s used to walk allthe waytothe church on Sunday, starting in Zig ZagRoad–singing all the way!), the old Uniting Churchand the Railway Station buildings are about all thatremain of Riddell’shistorical buildings.

Theold Amesshomestead mayalso still be standing .and then its big jumptosuch things as the Riddells Creek Parliament,a fire surround around which the ladies and gentsofold Riddells Creeksat around at WallyMoore’s smithy in Station Street.Ofcoursethere’s always the wonderful bluestone arch bridges, but they’ll probably still be around when the worldends! If anyone is interested indiscussing aviable futurefor the old church if it does become atargetfor developers, Iwould liketolist my email jball1938@hotmail.com —for those who are concerned.

More energy bill relief on the way

Lisa ChestersMP

Federal Labor Governmentiscontinuing its energy bill relieffor households and small businesses through to the end of 2025.

Those withan electricity accounthavealready seen $300 taken offtheir energy bills over thepast12months.

This extension, which kicks in on July 1, will see afurther $150 come off people’senergybills over thenextsix months. In most cases,yourelectricity provider will automatically apply the billrelieftoyour electricity accountand youwill notberequired to takeany action. Iknowfrommyconversations in the communitythatthis is welcome relieffor alot of local families. Energy bill reliefisjust one of thewayswe’re providing direct assistancefor families and small businesses with energy bills.

This is part of Labor’splanfor households and businesses to benefit from cheaper,cleaner poweroverthe short, mediumand long term.

GWWbacks projects

Acrisis support trailer,community festivals and pollinatorgarden are among the Macedon Ranges projects to gain funding through Greater Western Water'sThriving CommunitiesGrantsand Sponsorship program. Community grants of up to $20,000 and up to $5000 forlocal community sponsorship areavailable through theprogram.

TheLions ClubofRiddells Creek has gained agrant forits pollinator garden project at the Lions Memorial Park. Thegarden will be filled withpollinatorplants and capture stormwateronsite. Romsey Neighbourhood House has put its grant towardsits crisis support trailer,

which provides powerand other essential services and supports during emergencies and poweroutages. Gisborne and District Lions Club wasawarded funds forits LionsGisborne Festival 2025 which will, this year,celebrate50years of bringing the communitytogether in the festiveseason. CreativeRanges Foundation will put its granttoits Spring YouthFestival eventinWoodend, which will showcase young musical talentfromacrossthe Macedon Ranges.

Eastern Macedon Ranges Business and Tourism Association will use the funds forits Christmas in Romsey Festival 2025.

Preparing Woodend foranemergency

Woodend residents areinvited to take part in atwo-part worshop series aimed at strengthening local emergency preparedness.

This series focuses on practical, real-world scenarios and highlights the strengths already presentwithin the community –ensuring thatifdisaster strikes, locals areready to support eachother Delivered by RedFlag in partnership withthe Woodend Neighbourhood House and Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil’sEmergency Managementand Recovery team, these sessions aim to boost community self-sufficiencybydrawing on local knowledge, skills and resources.

Thefirst session, the Emergency Re-

Penelope Cato (left), alocal artist and facilitator of Art Club forKids at Woodend Neighbourhood House, will leadthe Make Your Own SausageDog workshopthese school holidays.Sarah Connell (right), from ShantiStudio, runs the House’s children’s yoga programs and will offersessions as part of the upcoming holidayprogram.

Winter fun these holidays

With the July school holidays fast approaching, the Woodend Neighbourhood House is onceagain opening itsdoorsfor a fun-filled lineup of creative, hands-on and engaging workshops forchildren and teens.

Designed foravarietyofage groups, the programofferssomething foreveryone. Whether it'scrafting acutesausagedog, building with LEGO bricks, stretching out with yoga, or diving into drama, theprogram is designed to makethe most of the break from school.

Theprogram includes:

•MakeYour Own SausageDog (two sessions)– WedJuly 9|Prep– Grade 4|$35

•Bricks4Kidz Mining and Crafting Workshop –ThursJuly 10 |Prep– Grade 4| $65

•Bricks4Kidz Junior Robotics Workshop –ThursJuly 10 |Grades 3–6 |$65

•Bendy Buddies –Tues July 15 | Preschoolers|$10

•CreativeYogafor Kids –TuesJuly 15 |Prep– Grade 6|$15

•Warming Yoga forTeens –Tues July 15| Years7– 12 |$15

•StoryboardDrama Workshop (2 sessions)– WedJuly 16 |Prep– Grade 6|$35

Woodend Neighbourhood House manager,Melissa Baker, said the school holidays programwas achancefor kids to stay engaged and activeduring the winterbreak.

“It’sa fun wayfor kids to trysomething different, getcreativeand makenew friends in arelaxed, welcoming space,”MsBaker said. Places arelimited and bookings areessential.

Book online via the ‘What’sOn’ section at www.woodendnh.org.au

sponse Workshop, will be held on Tuesday July 8from6.30pm to 8pm at the Woodend RSL, 32 AnslowStreet, Woodend. The hands-on workshop will explorelocal risks, keyresponseactions, and safe gathering places to prepareresidents foremergencies.

Thesecond session, the Emergency Scenario Exercise, will takeplaceonTuesdayJuly 15 from 6pm to 8pm at thesame location, and participants will apply their knowledgeinarealistic mock emergency to build confidenceand readiness.

Woodend Neighbourhood House Manager,Melissa Baker, encourages everyone in the local Woodend communitytoattend these importantsessions:

“Emergencies can happen unexpectedly, and it’simportantthatthe community is prepared to support one another in those critical first hours. These sessions are designed notonlyfor individuals but also forthose connected to local groups, facilities and networks. Everyone’s involvement strengthens thecommunity’sresilience–whether it’srallying neighbours, accessing community spaces, or simply being ready yourself.Weencourageall Woodend residents to take part,” Ms Bakersaid. Registration is required and attendance at both sessions is preferable. Contactthe Woodend Neighbourhood House on 5427 1845 or viathe ‘What’sOn’ section at www.woodendnh.org.au

Covering the Macedon Ranges and MountAlexander Shires

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

3MarketSt., PO Box153,Kyneton, 3444

Telephone: (03) 5422 1488

Facsimile: General (03) 5422 3173

13 HargravesSt., PO Box227, Castlemaine, 3450

Telephone: (03) 5472 1788

Facsimile: (03) 5472 4504

MondaytoFriday9.00 am-5.00 pm

MondaytoFriday8.30

Happy HappyBirthday Birthday Birthday Club

Politics, competition andprone to extremes

Gillian Wills wrote BigMusic,her debut novel, because she wanted people to knowwhatgoes on behind the concert curtain.

Publishersrequireauthorstocapture the essenceoftheir book in afew words. Willssaysthis abouthers.

Birthday

NAME (PRINT)

ADDRESS.............

DATE OF BIRTH

PARENT/GUARDIAN SIGNATURE

Music is so readily available it'seasy forpeople to overlook the dedication and hardwork involved in becoming a performer

There'samisconception that conservatoriums arepeaceful, genteel places. Undeniably exhilarating, theyare also political, competitive and prone to extremes.

Theauthor has strong memories of her time at TheRoyal AcademyofMusic in London.

"Myteacherthrew apiano stool at me because Ihadn't playedBeethoven's Tempest Sonata to his liking. Luckily,the stool fell short of my foot," she says

"While listening to Verdi's Requiem the conductor froze,his arms in theair.In response, the choirand orchestradoubled their efforts, except he washaving aheart attack and died on stage."

Wills remembersthinking, "I'll putthat in abookone day"

Theauthor wasDean of Music at the Victorian Collegeofthe Arts, University of Melbourne, fornine yearsand this experienceinspired BigMusic,althoughthe story and the quirky charactersare fictional.

Music institutions arepressured places.

On topofacademic study,rehearsals and performing, the students oftenneed to earn aliving as well as maintain strict practise routines. Someone is always about to givea concert. It's intense.

Thenovelexplores issues as varied as the tension between classicaland contemporary musicians, performancenerves and the bias women can face in aleadership role

"Melody,mayhem and mystery propels this pacycharacter-driven, triumph-overadversity romanceset in amusic college."

Beatrice, nicknamed Beat,isappointed director of Turalong Music Collegedespite her youth and inexperience. Dogged by impostor syndrome, she'sdetermined to revive theinstitution's flagging reputation despitein-fighting, fraud, betrayal and predatory behaviour.Beethoven'sghost makes afleeting appearance.

Musicians arefinding BigMusic authentic and entertaining, butthe author wrote it witha generalreadership in mind. She insists there'snoneedfor anyone to know anything about music to enjoyit.

All kindsofstyles arereferenced from Mendelssohn, Princeand ChetBaker Aplaylist –sametitle as thebook –on Spotify features all the songs and works included.

Willshas held launches in Victoria, Queensland and NewSouth Wales. On every occasion she's invited amusician to playanintroduction. In Readings, State Library of Victoria, aclarinetist delivered Mozart. Acountry 'n'western singer contributed to alaunch at Berkelouw, Eumundi in Queensland.

At Stonemason's Bookroom in Castlemaine on Saturday July 12, local violinist Lizzy Walsh, an internationally acclaimed early music celebritywellknown forher virtuosityand experimental improvisation, will perform. Walshis aVCA graduate Free event: Gillian Willswith Lizzy Walsh, Stoneman's Bookroom, Castlemaine, 12pm July 12. Enquiries to 5470 5134.

Soil needed to dig deeper

AgricultureVictoria is launching an expression of interest campaign to encouragefarmerstodonate soil samples to aNational Soil Action Plan funded research project.

Funded by the Australian and Victorian governments, the ‘Soil biodiversity across landscapes’project will seek to implementpriority actions from theplanunder the National Soil Strategy

AgricultureVictoria principal scientist TimSawbridgesaidhehoped to attract interest from at least 50 farmersstatewide.

"Weare looking at whatmicrobiomes exist in soil and howtheyfunctionacross natural and farmed environments,"hesaid.

"Weanticipate thatfarmerswho express interest in submitting samples to theproject will have anatural curiosity about whatisliving within their soil."

To express interest in participating in theproject, farmersshould email soil.microbiome@ agriculture.vic.gov.auby5pm,TuesdaySeptember 30.

Gillian Wills will launchBig Music at Stonemason’s Bookroom in Castlemaine on July 12.

Thinking of Selling? Let’s Do It Together.

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

Tamara Mactier Director&Licenced Estate Agent

Nathanial Briggs Director&Senior SalesExecutive

SuzieBlake Sales Agent&Buyer Manager

Lilly Redpath SalesAssociate & CampaignManager

RayWhite Kyneton,proudlysponsoring the local community.

Theresults speak forthemselves, and these numbers affirm our position as aleading real estate agency in Central Victoria.* With 3strategically locatedofficeswemeet more buyers than any other real estate business in Central Victoria, who are looking to buy apropertyjustlikeyours.

Contactustoday to discover the value of your home and to help you preparefor aspringsale.

MIDLAND Property &Living

Superbly locatedjust ashort walk from Gisborne’s thriving town centre,with shops, restaurants, primary schools and public transport within easyreach, this stunning weatherboardfamily home on 922 sqm (approx.) offers the perfect blend of period charm and modern convenience. From its elevatedposition, views across Gisborne township towards MountMacedon can be enjoyed, while the majestic oak tree offers both privacy from the streetand welcome summer shade.

Established in the 1930s, original period features shine against morerecentupdates ensuring the homeissuited to 21st Centuryliving. Inviting timber-lined verandahs with ornate fretwork, sash windows,elegant12ftceilings and polished hardwood flooring exude quality and timeless charm. Thefloorplan is ideal forfamilies, withthree spacious bedrooms with built-in robes and apowder room in their ownwing offthe main hallway,while the lightfilled main bedroom with Velux skylightand ensuite, and the family bathroom arelocated opposite. Theexpansivefamily living zone is whattruly sets this homeapart, with the centraldining and kitchen area withcombustion fireseamlessly connecting to thecosysitting room with open fireplace and French doorstoaside deck, and achildren’s playroom or second living. Theimpressive, updatedkitchen with freestanding Falcon stove,timber benchtops and

apron frontsink overlooks awonderful outdoor entertaining terracewith bluestone paving and built in barbecue, the perfect placefor family celebrations. Large rock stairslead to a generous lawn, witha firepitarea, veggie garden, chicken coop and garden shed forstorage

Themanyadditional features includeafantastic home office/games room/5th bedroom overlooking the rear verandah, gas hydronicheating, split systemair

(floor,walls,

with heart,wherehistory meets modern dayliving. With so

centrallocation, an inspection will notdisappoint.

Property: Oakvale, on 922 sqm (approx.)

Address: 77 Hamilton Street,Gisborne Price: $1,180,000

Agent: Jellis Craig Contact: Leanne Pearman0400

on

Jellis Craig Central Victoria Woodend |Castlemaine |Daylesford Scan foranappraisal

property. jelliscraig.com.au

51 Campaspe Drive, Kyneton

MIDLAND Property &Living

Luxury living meetscountrycharm y meetts s countrry y charm

Set in one of Gisborne's most covetedhillside enclaves, 2PindaraPlaceoffersanexceptional blend of high-end contemporaryliving with the peaceand appeal of acountry lifestyle. Nestled on an impressive 1251m² (approx.) allotment, this architecturally designed residencecapturesbreathtaking panoramic views across the historic Gisborne township, stretching all the waytoMountMacedon and beyond.

Completedin2022, this sleek and stylish home presents as ashowcase of modern minimalist design, high-quality finishes, and seamless indoor-outdoor flow. Every inch of this two-levelhome has been carefully considered to offerbothfunctional family living and refined luxury,creating an effortless sense of calm and sophistication from the momentyou enter.

Thehome's upper and lowerdecks offerexpansivealfrescospacesideal forbothrelaxing and entertaining. Thefirst-floor deck flows directly to astunning heated, tiled lap pool, forming the ultimate privateretreat forsummer gatherings or lazy afternoons. Upstairs, the

full-length deck frames sweeping vistas that shift beautifully with the seasons, providing a truly serene backdrop formorning coffees or evening drinks.

Inside, the interiorsare bathed in naturallight, featuresoaring high ceilings and arestyled to perfection, with bespokedetailing throughout. Theopen-plan living areas aresupported by smart home automation, ducted heating and cooling, and agas logfire– perfect forcurling up on chilly winternights surrounded by family.Atthe heart of the home lies theexquisitesleek and modern kitchen –aculinary showpiecefeaturing marbleand stone benchtops, brushed gold tapware,double ovens, afully integrated European dishwasher,and aseparate butler'spantry,ensuring both form and function areatthe forefront.

Thehome's intelligentlayout ensures thatfamily living is notonlystylish but supremely comfortable, with multiple living zonesacross the twolevelscatering to every stageoflife. Whether entertaining guests, working from home, or enjoying quiettime with lovedones, this home deliversspace, flexibility and undeniable style.

Belle Property Castlemaineand Maldon.

90 Back CreekRoad, Shelbourne.

4 a 2 b 8 v 197w

•Grand 197-acrerural estate with fertile land, creek, gardens, paddocks, and top-tier infrastructurefor farming or equestrian use.

•Spacious 4-bedroomhomestead blends classic country charm with moderncomfort.

•Solar,orchard, pool,and workshop support aself-sufficientlifestyle

ForSale

$1,550,000 View

Saturday5th July: 2:00pm-2:30pm

Narelle Waller |0408 571 131

RobWaller |0418 571 130

3WimbleStreet, Castlemaine.

3 a 2 b 1 v 575r

•RenovatedEdwardian with 3large bedrooms, 2bathrooms, study, and open-plan living

•Polished floors, ducted heating, leafy gardens, carport, and sunny north-facing backyard.

•Peaceful location, near schools,train, Mill Complex, and gardens.

ForSale

$895,000 View

Saturday5th July: 12:45pm-1:15pm

RobWaller |0418 571 130

Blasi Mulholland |0417311 733

MIDLAND Property &Living

Elevatedand establishedretro cool

Set on awell-positioned corner allotmentof502m², this elevatedthree-bedroom brick veneer home is surrounded by established gardens and offers easyliving just ashort stroll from shops, schools, childcareand the newly built playground and recreation area rightnextdoor.

Step onto the welcoming frontveranda and into a home rich with warmth and personality.The spacious formal loungemakes an immediate impression withits soaring timber-beamed ceiling, drawing in natural lightand creating an inviting atmospheretounwind.The central zone includes awell-maintained timber kitchen, complete with charming retrotiles and an eat-in meals area –blending classic character with everydayfunctionality

At the rear,a generous family room adds incredible versatility –ideal as asecond living area, creativespace, kids' playroom or home office.Whether you'reentertaining, relaxing or simply enjoying the morning sun, this

flexible spaceadapts effortlessly to your lifestyle.

Threegenerous bedrooms all include built-in robes and ceiling fans, serviced by aneatoriginal bathroom and aseparatetoilet. Year-round comfort is assured with reverse-cycle heating and cooling, and the inclusion of rainwater storageadds sustainabilitytothis easy-living home. Outside, the property continues to impress with a single carport and twogardensheds –offering plenty of storagefor tools, bikesorweekend projects. Surrounded by mature plantings and leafy privacy,the garden offers peaceful nooks to sit, relaxand enjoy.

Well-positioned and full of potential, this home will appeal to families, first-homebuyers, downsizersorinvestorslooking to secure apropertywith both character and convenience. Comfortable as is, and ready foryour ownpersonal touch, this is aspecial opportunitytoenjoy lifeinathrivingcommunitylocation.

Property: Elevatedthree-bedroom brick veneer home

Address: 25 MacLiseStreet, Castlemaine

Price: $645,000

Agent: Belle PropertyCastlemaine

Contact: RobWaller 0418 571130

Blasi Mulholland 0417 311 733

MIDLAND Property& Living

Aserene family retreat A serene retrea

Set amid meticulously landscaped gardens on a generous 5411sqm (approx.) allotment, this charming double-storey weatherboardresidenceseamlessly blends timeless character with modern functionality.Tucked away from theroad and enveloped by mature plantings, the property ensures privacy and tranquility.Inside, the home exudes warmth and elegance. Threedistinct living areas provide ample spacefor family gatherings or quietrelaxation, all enhanced by the inviting glowofa Heat Charm wood fire. Thecentral kitchen serves as the heart of the home, featuring granitebenchtops, quality appliances and abundantstorage –ideal forboth everydayliving and entertaining.

Thethoughtfully updatedbathrooms catertothe needs of abusyhousehold, while additional fea-

turessuchassolar panels, town waterand natural gas connections enhancethe home's efficiencyand comfort. Astandoutfeatureisthe impressiveindoor pool, housed within abeautifully craftedretreat thatconnectstothe main residencevia aJapaneseinspired courtyard garden. This pool house includes aversatile studio space, bathroom and kitchenette, offering excellentpotential fora home office,guest accommodation or creativestudio.

Adouble carport provides convenientundercover parking, while the expansivegrounds inviteexploration and quietenjoyment, witheach season bringing newbeauty to theestablished gardens.

This exceptional property presents aunique opportunitytosecurea family sanctuary where lifestyle, location and livability converge

Property: Double-storey weatherboardongenerous allotment

Address: 10 Scotia Place,Woodend

Price: $1,345,000 –$1,455,000

Agent: RayWhiteKyneton

Contact: Nathanial Briggs 0400 820 805 LillyRedpath 0467 676 101

MODERN FAMILY LIVING WITH

•Set

•Surrounded

•This stone cottage, which has been meticulously restored and refurbished, sits on agenerous1,130m2 approximately corner allotment with Crown Land on two boundaries.

•With the original cottage dating back to the mid 1800’s, the home is set on aparcel with lawns and meandering garden paths, and avariety of fruit trees and peppercorns.

•Thehome offers two bedrooms, aspacious lounge-dining room with solid fuel heating and split system, awell-appointed modern kitchen, generous sized bathroom with free standing bath and a large laundryarea.

•Located within afew hundredmetresofa ChildCareCentreand PrimarySchool and with all the services available, it is ready to build your home of choice.

•With only one immediate neighbour the property is approximately1200 metres from the Rail Stationand Town Centre, allowing for the possibility of walking to alarge

of

32 Castlemaine Road, MALDON

PEPPERCORN COTTAGE

7Kateesha Court, CAMPBELLS CREEK

Phone

Simpson, Dishlex, and Westinghouse. Simp www.kentappliancerepair.com.au kynetonappliancerepairs@gmail.com

Deaths

CAREY(NEE BLACK) -Suzanne Maree

11 October 1947 -20June 2025

Beautiful, loving, caring, funny and strong mum, mother-in-law and nannytoInez, Neoma, Aaron, Mark, Meg, Xavier, Yasmin,Jian, and Rui.

We'll miss your cheeky nature andyour sense of style.Youwere so stubborn and we bloody loved you for it.Youfought to the end.

I'll miss you so much darling. I'll miss our trips. We had so much fun building Riddell and camping. We lovedtorough-it.

trip away.Ilove you so much -now andalways. Aservice with immediate family will be held privately.Wewillhave an open house in the home that she created in Riddell at alater date for all her friends, family,and loved ones to come together and celebrate her life.

John passed away peacefully at Castlemaine Hospital on 24th June 2025 aged 91 years.

Loving husband ofAileen (dec).

Dearly loved father of Kathleen (dec), Colleen and Lynette and sons-in-law David and Greg. Much loved Grandfather of Jayne, Evan and Will,

Emma,Alex and Kate. Afriend to many John will be missed by his Botanical Gardens buddies and the Bull St crowd. We have so many happy memories, Youwill be forever in our hearts.

Thank you at Botanical Gardens Health who have cared for John over many years.

Please join with us to farewell John onThursday 3rd July at 11.00am in the Chapel of MountAlexander Funerals, 12 Campbell Street, Castlemaine.

Neil passed away peacefully atArcare Castlemaine. Loved son of the late Hugh and Wyn Frankling, brother and brother in law to Ron and Myra, Uncle to Wendy (dec),Andrea, Ian (dec) and Mark. Words are few,thoughts are deep, memories of you we will always keep.

DOUGLAS

Ian Raymond 18.2.1955 –28.6.2 025

Beloved son of thelate Gladys &Alan Douglas Loving Brother &Brother-in-law of Malcolm &Wendy R.I.P.

AGravesi de Service for Ian will be hel don Wednesda y, 2n dJuly2 02 5 commencing at 3pm at the Har court Cemetery

please consider a donation to Dhelkaya HealthAcute Care. KN284950/L

NOTICE TO ALL ADVERTISERS

Section 29 of the FairTrading Act 1999 requires the inclusion of afull name and address (not PO BoxNumber) –inall advertisements for the supplyofgoods and services.

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

Act

John Lovell

KN284940/L

KN284953/L

FOUND ADVERTS ARE PUBLISHED FREE!

If youhavefound lost property,we’ll help

the owner free of charge Simply provide the details of your “find”,and your phone number forpublication.

CRAFT MARKET Saturday July5th,2025 9am-1pm

RMBEGGAgedCare BOLTONHALL 22EppingStreet, Kyneton ItemsInclude: LARGEWoolsale, Knitwear,Beanies,Scarves, Rugs,Toys,Cakes,Jams, BabyGifts,Sauces,Books EFTPOSAVAILABLE

‘Parky Pals’

PARKINSONS DISEASE SUPPORT GROUP

Castlemaine Golf Club, Muckleford ALLWELCOME

3rd FRIDAY of each month (note change of day for 2025) 10.30 –12noon PD information and social interaction

Enq: jmiko@castlemainehealth.org.au

‘Parky Pals’is supported by MtAlexander Shire Community Grants

•Bullbars and Sidesteps

•Winches and Recovery Gear

•Suspension and Snorkels

•Canopies and Awnings

•Roof Racks &Drawers

•Big Bore Exhausts

•Setups and Accessories

205 Mollison St Kyneton PH 5422 2211

Advertise your pre loved items in the Midland Express and reach over 50,000 readersevery week.

allocation willbemade for our pipeline andruralchannel customers forboth raw and recycledwater

We will complete areviewofthis allocation on the 15th of eachmonth Moreinformation

Furtherinformation willbemailed to all rural customersthis week.Information is alsoavailable at coliban.com.au/rural

Dunolly,Echuca, Elmore, Elphinstone Fryerstown,Gannawarra, Goornong, Guildford,

Seniors

GOALS: Castlemaine: RMuscat4JByrne THickey J Cochrane BEST: Castlemaine: TFordC McLennan RMuscat BBrowne-KerrAFrankling AMedlyn

Riddell: LCannon 5DGalea 4D Tarczon3J Hammerling 2BBorgH Ross JGrabham LHay BEST: Riddell: D TarczonLCannon DGaleaKOgilvie BSwallowBBorg.

Macedon: MDick 3BCooke 2T Sims 2J Wright2 MRutledge 2SIndian HGovanCRossetti BWatson BEST: Macedon: MDick JKernan CRossetti TSims DMcDonald B Watson.

Kyneton: ANolte5BRyan2CFisher RPrettyH Ryan EForeman. BEST: Kyneton: BRyanJGaff CBowman D Bennington JO’Sullivan CFisher

GOALS: Gisborne: HLuxmoore4SClough 3LMeletis 2 DYoung JZerafa CJohns ZDenahyB BernackiBBlake M Merrett. BEST: Gisborne: BBernackiZ VescoviJGrayH LuxmooreD YoungBBlake

GOALS: Castlemaine: CLord3 OBritt 3JBarnes 2O Giddings 2SSieber-hogg BEST: Castlemaine: CLordO Britt OGiddings GO’Sullivan SSieber-hogg CMark.

GOALS: Castlemaine: MHartley 2DHickey 2J Chester 2 ZGreeves 2KHuntly JNuttall CMcLennan ARixon. BEST: Castlemaine: PBalta JEyreKHuntlyZGreeves HSheahan JNuttall

Reserves

GOALS: Gisborne: MSteinbach 2JCollins BEST: Gisborne: KMinnsHOlive JLong JCollins DWeaverIGulam

Under 17.5s

Evans AShawE WalshM PowneyC

GOALS: Maldon:BBrown2 NMcLaren 2A Woodman M Colston. BEST: Maldon:N Thompson CBennett ADavies A Woodman MJohns DWust

GOALS: Trentham:JRegan 9JDovaston 5T Fuller 3JKeogh 3. BEST: Trentham: JDovaston JRegan CWebber-Mirkin T Fuller EFanningZGervasoni.

HARCOURT

GOALS: Harcourt: JRodda 4BGurd3LBurns 2B Vaz2 R

Thiesz CAnderson JThrelfall. Newstead: BMoran JEntwisle

KMartin. BEST: Harcourt: CAnderson KMcbride JRodda AJensen BVaz JHogg.Newstead:JPedretti JSmith N Woodman MDalrymple JGoulton KSmith

GOALS: Campbells Creek:NO’Brien 3DStevens 2H Bassett 2MStevens JMartinovic BDunne HMelrose BEST: Campbells Creek:LHyland NO’Brien MStevens MLangley TWilliams TLangley

Reserves

HARCOURT 3.4 8.6

GOALS: Harcourt: MMcKnight5 BLeech 3BKitchingman

2RCadzowR Davies HBreretonJGale JMcMahon JLeech. Newstead: MWilliams3N Webster BEST: Harcourt: JGale J McMahon BKitchingman MMcKnightL Dillon FBessoudCavillot. Newstead:CDeBono MWilliams RWhiteL ChapmanB Jackson

GOALS: Campbells Creek:JBonnici 2D Bonnici 2A Bonnici

JMoore BCooper TMurphy. BEST: Campbells Creek:A Bonnici DBonnici LThomas TMurphyE Tuitupou LPicken

GOALS: Harcourt: JArcher 4C Waycott

Harcourt: MMcKnightJ Archer KSimmons CWaycott E Holland/Teed LMcKay

JSammut.

Trentham:QKinnell JSammut D Turner RHenchie JNadin JSteen.

GOALS: Maldon: OMerlo 2ZDyer2C Scoble BEST: Maldon: CJenningsCMcGee CScoble SGross LPascoe

GOALS: Trentham: TJames8 HKost ARyrie SMiller BEST: Trentham: TJames HLeong WHopper Lstringer OHolmes JWales

CREEK

GOALS: Campbells Creek:B Taylor 3MAnderson 2R Roberts MCalabro. BEST: Campbells Creek:B Taylor JAndersonR Roberts MCalabroB Pagano NJones

GOALS: Harcourt: KWaddington 9T Evans 4JMuscat 3HGeorge 2CLyne2 LDunlop JBrasher. Newstead: J ElliottBBrightM Wong PBlake BEST: Harcourt:T Evans K Waddington LDunlopJDorian CLyneB McKay. Newstead: L Caruso-Ascui TDaldy WGarsed EEbery MWong WBunting Under 11.5s

GOALS: Campbells Creek:Details N/A.. BEST: Campbells Creek:DJones JRoberts LMorgan JAnderson BPagano K Pagano

Daytoremember

Lancefield Football Netball Club's inaugural Ladies Day wasanunforgettable experiencefor all who attended on Saturday.

It washighlightedbythe absorbing contribution of guest speaker KarenRolton, one of Australia's greatest cricketers of all time.

Rolton reached the peak of peaks in her sport, captaining the nation's women's team and making 10 centuries, the highlight being her world Test record of 207 notout in England in 2001.

Shewas the thirdwoman to be inducted into both the ICCand Australian Cricket Halls of Fame.

Theguest speaker shared her time very generously,speaking to manyindividuals, and will be coming back to Lancefield to

provide some pre-season coaching forthe women's cricket teams!

TheLaurie Green Pavilion wastransformed into aWinterWonderland theme forthe occasion, with 'WinterChic' cosy and classythe recommended dress.

Opening formalities, Lancefield FNC vice-presidentChris Dynon said it wasan appropriate time to celebratethe women of Lancefield and their amazing contributions both on and offthe field.

"Wewouldn't be herewithout them,"he declared.

Interviewers Anita Veldhuizen and Catriona Goldsworthywerekeptbusy, with the guest speaker bombarded withquestions.

Theclubexpresses appreciation to all who playedarole in organising the special event, and to thegenerous donorswho supported the day.

‘Winter1000’ winners

Home course knowledgepaid offinthe KilmoreTrackside 'Winter1000' golf tournamentonSunday.

Lancefield'sGregParks, Todd Lambert,Bert Parks and Hugh Parks, came in with an excellenttotal of 118 points (best three cards count) under the Irish four-ball stableford format.

First prize of $1000 cash forthe winnershelped entice14 teamsfromvarious clubs to compete

Congratulating the winners, LGCpresidentGlen Holland said while the eventhad been an annual one, this year KilmoreTrackside had generously sponsored the event.

Holland thanked Trackside presidentMark Cruise, who is along-time LGCmember,and his committeefor their support, which the club hopes will be ongoing.

He also commended all visiting players fortheir support, with tee-off time being 9.30am.

An excellentmeal wasprovided by the club, and appreciated by the visitors.

Thebest individual scorefor the daywas 41 points by another Lancefield member, Aaron Andrews

CASTLEMAINE

Thebest scoreinSaturday'spar event came from B-grader Brad Sturgess (14) with +2, one ahead of Garry Moore(13). Afield of 57 braved the cold and windy conditions.

Broadfordvisitor Neal Langmead (11) took out A-grade with +1, on acountback from LiamO'Brien (11).

Stephen Cooper (19) wasbest in Cgrade with +1, from Mick Josey(24) -1. Bill Burgess eagled the second, and O'Brien and Harvey Zepnick(12) earned twobirdies.

Kevin Adams (20) wonthe morning mixednine holes with18 points, on a countbackfromPeterGresswell (19).

Thursday'sstableford in soggyconditions offthe redtees made it ashorter game, with Tayler Walsh(10) the winner with 38 points, from Andrew Wilson (2) on 37. Marty Beck and ScottTinkler were NTPs, and Leigh Campbell carded three birdies.

GISBORNE

Congratulations to Lynne Smith and former Gisborne member Ginni Dalton who wonthe 52nd women's golden puttertrophyatMurray Downs last week.

Captain's trophyfirst round on Saturday, andjoinleadersare PeterShawand Robert Lockey with 40 points.

We arenot Shaw Petercan maintain this form, and maybe Robert will get Lockey andwin.

Other winnersonthe daywerePhil Tsamados who topped C-grade with38 points, and thebandit Marg.Barker who wonthe women's section with35 points.

On Thursday, Tony Kucic wonA-grade with asuperb43points, Robert Sims B-grade with35, and Tony Abate C-grade with 42.

Town &District

GOLF results

KYNETON

Thetop seeds in the prestigious CC Fisher doubles were knocked out in the first round of match play on Saturday.

Club champion ColHudgson and partner Jesper Hansen ranintoa buzz-saw called Regan Williams (11 handicap)who is notedfor his hotand cold golf

He wasonfire, with four birdies and a 2-overcardashecombined with TimKirk to eliminate the topseeds 7-6.

Other results: Tien Ho —David Austin dPaul Law— Barry Murphy 5-4, Jason McClure— Nick Williamson dNoel Alldis —Col O'Sullivan 3-2, Jonathan and Thomas Beacheyd PeterWalsh —David McKelvie on the 21st.

Thesemi-finals takeplaceonJuly 12.

Terry Kot(12) wonthe topflightindividual stableford with 36 points, the only one to playtohis handicap. He wasthree ahead of Dale West (14).

Mick McQualter (15) wassolid in the other division with35, twoclear of Ewan Wright(25).

Denise Murphy led in the women with 28, and NTPswenttoWilliams, Walsh, Pete Robbins and Bert Cottingham (also super pin).

Hudgson returned aone over par71 for37points to beatNeville Yatesbysix in freezing conditions on Wednesday. Thursday'snine-hole shootout was close, with sevenplayers within two strokes of one another.Shaun Neeson (19) wonona countback from Louis Thompson (4) and Kirk (4).

Only 11 bravewomen tackled Tuesday'sstableford withGrace Parkinson (27) pipping Jane Stanley(29) on acountback with 30 points.

Doubles knockout semi-finals: StanleyBanksie Buckleyd Terry Morley— Valme

Smoors2/1, and Julie Harris —Rachael McAndrew dRobyn Schuurman —Moyra Douglas 4-2. Thefinal is on this Thursday. LANCEFIELD

The2025 4BBB knockout final wasa tightbattleonSaturday.

Eventual winnersBert and Greg Parks struggled early against PeterMcGill and Stewart Stevens.

They were pleased to take out thetitle 2&1.

Todd Lambert (6) wonthe day'sstableford with 38 points, with Gary Dudderidge(11) second on 34, on acountback from SteveGilbert (16).

ThursdayFIX: Dean Budde (14) 35 points, from Jason Byron(11) 34, and Stephen Morgan (29) on 30.

Legends: SteveGilbert (16) 34, from Morgan (29) 32, and PeterMcGill(10) 28 on acountback from Ed Godek (14).

MOUNTMACEDON

TheJune monthly medal wasplayedin chilly but benign conditions on Saturday.

Themedal and A-grade winner with 73-9-64 wasDarren Mantynen from RichardPayne 74-7-67.

Oils Flannery topped B-grade with8015-65 from playing partner Mike Hoiles 83-13-70.

In C-grade PeterSemmens 92-24-68 wononacountback from Damien Lee 89-21-68.

Matt Willis grabbed the best gross scorewith a73, one better than Mantynen.

With the Ranges firmly in the grip of winteritwas no surprise thatthe midweek competitorswerea 'no show' with snowand rain predicted.

ROMSEY

Tough conditions on Saturdayfor the June medal, withthe temperaturehover-

ingbetween 7and 8degrees. Players who could hit the ball high and long had an advantage.

Therewas still some good scores returned, withMick Squire74-5-69 the winner

Luke Lyons 77-7-70 and Nathan Moroney89-17-72 filledthe minor placings.

ScottWilliams had the least putts, and NTPs went to Squireand Shaun Scales.

TRENTHAM

Thethirdand final round of the 2025 mixed pairschampionship wasplayedon Saturday.

Overall 54-hole scratchwinnerswere Alison Borchersand Simon Ovenden.

Thehandicap winnerswereLisa Caines —Paul Robinson.

Borchers— Ovenden wonthe 18-holes on Saturdaywith anett66.625, from Anne and Paul McKeon 71.625.

Stableford resultsfromafield of 52 on Saturdaywere: A-grade —Darrin McLean 35 points, on acountbackfrom Andrew Hocking; B— Simon Carroll 37, from PeterSpeakman 35; C— Brian Renwick37, from Gavin Flecknoe 35.

WOODEND

Saturday'sstableford attracted 37 players,with abig contingentofmembersheading north to playinthe golden putter eventatMurray Downs.

Some fine scores were returned,with GuyMoxley(4) taking out A-grade with 37 points from Chris Hale (6)on36. RodKane (11) continued to shine with 40, winning B-grade from Paul Whelan (11) on 39.

Jacinta Davis, Larry Davis and Nyssa Payne all carded 36 points in C-grade, withJacinta coming in first on the countback.

Bill West

Enjoyable occasion: Pictured are(from left) Ashleigh Coates, Madie Coates-Cowley, guest speaker Karen Rolton, and Emma Condron during abreak in formalities

Profitable day: (fromleft)GregParks, Todd Lambert, Bert Parks and Hugh Parks were the big winnersonSunday.

Magpies triumph over Roos

TheCastlemaine Magpies were thrilled to getbackonthe winners' list as theydefeatedKangaroo Flat in round 10 action last Saturdayatthe Camp Reserve.

TheMagpie Seniorsput in asolid performanceagainst the Roos, storming home inthe final quarter before an enthusiastic home crowd

Flat were on topearly with twoquick goalstoJeremyRodi and Jake Hywood,however, the Magpies soon warmed up and snaggedone back through Archie Rixon.

Therest of the term descended into ascrap withneither side able to gain the upper hand and both sides peppering the goalsto only come up with ahandful of points.

At quarter-timethe visitorsled by sevenpoints.

Kangaroo Flat got another goal on theboardearly in the second term through Nicholas Lang, butthen the Magpies stood up with twogoals to Jack Chester and one to Zachary Greeves turning the tide. Fellow Magpie Ronald Fejo and coachMichael Hartleyadded another couple late in the term to seethe Magpies leading by 14 points at half-time.

Kangaroo Flat bounced back in the thirdwithtwo quick goals to bridgethe gap.

ButCastlemaine had all the answerskicking another three to extend the margin to 18 points at the final change.

Castlemaine continued the momentuminthe final term with goals to Hartley, Fejo and young star Curtis McLennan before Flat found another much-neededgoal via Jake Hywood.But at the final siren Castlemaine had the crowd on itsfeetcelebrating a35pointwin.

Best forthe Magpies were Patrik Balta, Joshua Eyre,Kalan Huntly,Zachary Greeves, Harrison Sheahan and Jack Nuttall

TheReserves started strongly and both sides were locked on 19 points apieceatquarter-time. ButFlatslowly inched ahead of the Magpies over theremaining threeterms to runout winnersby 34 points.

Best forthe Magpies were Thomas Ford,Campbell McLennan,

Robert Muscat,Brodie Browne-Kerr,AshtonFrankling and Aidan Medlyn.

TheUnder 18s had aresounding win overthe Roos by 46 points. TheMagpie young guns setupthe win in the opening term kicking fivegoals to one. TheRoos battled their wayback across the second and thirdterms. ButCastlemaine continued to dominate in the last term kicking twogoals to one pointbe comfortable winners.

Best forCastlemaine were Caspian Lord,Oliver Britt, Oscar Giddings, Gabriel O'Sullivan, SaxonSieber-Hogg andCooper Mark.

Women's Football

TheCastlemaine Women's football side hit theroad to take on Marong at Malone Park in round 12 of the AFL CentralVic Women's competition last SundayJune 29. TheMagpies were fresh from the byeand determined to getbackonthe winnerslist aftertheir shock loss to Sandhurst on June 15. TheMagpies did just thatsmashing out amassive 96-pointwin overthe Panthers. Best on ground wasHannah Cochrane. However, big wins by Eaglehawk in the last tworounds have seen them snag topspot from the dominantMagpie outfit.

Netball

On the netball court, AReservelost 39-57 despitesomewonderful passages of play. Best on wasRachelle McLean

BGrade lost 32 to 68 in avalianteffort. Best on wasLori Whaley.

BReservelost atough battle 6-97. Best on wasElla Rixon. 17& Under lost aclose bout against the Roos 32-39. Best on wasEllie Clifford.

This weekend

In this weekend'smatches, the Castlemaine FNCsides will hit the road to face South BendigoatHarry TrottReserveinround 11 action on Saturday, while on Fridayevening the Women's Football side heads north to tackle WhiteHills under lights in the Indigenous Round.

Gisborne’sbig form reversal

Gisborne senior footballersstagedone of the big form reversals of the season on Saturday, thrashing Strathfieldsaye by 60 points.

Just sevendaysearlier Gisborne had suffered an unexpected seven-goal loss to South Bendigo.

So it'sfullmarks to senior coachRob Waters,his assistants and the whole playing group to regroup and outclass Strathfieldsaye,particularly as therehad been less than agoal between the two sides in round three.

Sustained skill and teamwork saw Gisborne open up alead of 35 points by half-time, and ablistering second half produced afinal scoreline of 16.16 (112) to 7.10 (52). Brad Bernacki wasbacktohis brilliant ball winning best, and otherstostandout included ZacVescovi,James Gray, Harry Luxmoore, DarcyYoung and Braidon Blake.

Andthe confidence-boosting win was achievedwithout the services of ace forwardPat McKenna!

This Saturday, Gardiner Reserveshould attract alarge crowdasGisborne is at home to second-placed Eaglehawk. The Hawks easily beatSouth Bendigoon Saturday.

In avery low-scoring match,Gisborne Reserves lost by apoint to Strathfieldsaye,after Gisborne Under 18s had earlier led throughouttodefeatthe home side by 12 points.

FOUR OUTOFFIVE

It wasabig Saturdayfor Gisborne netballers, winning four of their fivematches. In A-grade, Gisborne won58-27, and other favourable scoreswere74-34 (A-Reserve),63-44 (B), and 61-40 (BReserve)

Strathfieldsaye won50-46 in the 17&Under match

BFNL matches

Round 11 matches in the BendigoFootball Netball League competition this Saturdayare: Gisborne vEaglehawk.

South Bendigov Castlemaine Golden Squarev Strathfieldsaye Kangaroo Flat vSandhurst.

RDFNL matches

Round 12 matches in the Riddell District Football NetballLeague competition this Saturday are: Kynetonv Woodend-Hesket. Romsey vGisborne Giants MacedonvRiddell.

Melton Centrals vLancefield.

DiggersRestv Melton South Wallan thebye

Leaguesvie forGisborne affiliation

Gisborne Football NetballClub is considering its future afterhaving been approached by the Ballarat Football NetballLeague to consider affiliating with the Ballarat league next season.

Aspokesperson forthe clubsaid the committee wasapproached some months agoby the boardofthe Ballarat FNLwiththe proposal.

"Therewas adiscussion with playing membersregarding this last week. Therehas been no vote on thisnor isany planned at this time,"the spokesperson said.

"Any decision on this matter will be thatofGFNC members at alater date if appropriate."

Meanwhile the BendigoFootball NetballLeague confirmed it wasaware thatGisborne FNC wasconsidering its playing futurewiththe league.

"Should Gisborne submit an official noticeoftheir intention to seek atransfer,the BFNL

boardwill review the noticeinaccordancewith AFL Victoria CommunityAffiliate Regulations and will engagerelevant stakeholders, including the Ballarat FNL,Gisborne FNC, other BFNL clubs, AFL Victoria and Netball Victoria, to ensurethatany decision reflects thebest interests of our league and the region’s competitiveframework,"BFNL chair Carol McKinstry said.

“The BFNL boardrecognise thatGisborne’s club vision and communityconnections are evolving, but given the club’s 20+ year relationship withthe BFNL,weanticipate thatGisborne FNCwill remaininthe BFNL for2026.

“Should Gisborne FNCsubmit their intent to transfer,the BFNL boardwill evaluatethe transfer request thoroughly,with consideration forour league and our broader football netball ecosystem,”McKinstry added.

The Magpies Kalan Huntly shrugs off his opponent and looks for an option

Photo: Max Lesser

Topliners on the sidelines

Bill West

Injuries and/or unavailability aretakingtheir toll on some topline footballersasthe Riddell League has sevenrounds remaining before finals time.

Depthisbeing tested and prominentnames suchas2024 BowenMedal winner Chris Stewart (300 games up now), Richmond dual premiership playerMarlion Pickett, former leading goalkicker Matt Perri, Romsey playing coachNathan Blair,Macedon's Jason Cooke, and Harrison Huntleywere among the regular qualitynames missing from teamson Saturday.

Ladder leader DiggersRest and reigning premier Riddell occupy the toptwo positions on the ladder,and these two clubs have plenty of talentedplayers on their list, with absentees having less impact than maybethe case withsome other clubs.

Forthe second Saturdayina row, DiggersRest ranaway in the last quarter,thistimekicking six goalstobeata battling Romsey by44points.

Riddell wasvery wary playing Melton South, and the Bombersnever relented, kicking 18 goalstowin by 32 points.

Luke Cannon led the waywith five, andDean Galea increased his lead on the goalkicking ladder with four Kynetonwas notatfull strength forthe battle at Wallan, with the Magpies keyedupwith premiership reunions to provide strong support.

Five goalsupathalftime, Wallan wonby35points despiteKynetonfighting the matchout with six majorsinthe last term. Angus Noltefinished with five.

TheTigersare back to theShowgrounds on Saturdayand need to defeat Woodend-Hesket aftersuccessivelosses to strong opposition.

GIANTSSTORM HOME

Theone thrilling finish sawa tenacious Gisborne Giants storm home to topple Melton Centrals by fivepoints.

It wasthe second win this season forthe very newclub, and this wasbuoyedbythe Reserves winning their first-ever match.

TheGiants areproving to be aspirited club, and their presenceonthe netball court has been particularly effective so farthis season.

Young ruckman TomDoyle, who has risen through junior ranks, wasnamed 'best'for the home side.

Therewas avery bigcrowd at Lancefield, whereformer Australian women's cricket captain KarenRolton wasguest speaker at aspecial Ladies Dayfunction staged by the home club.

Chasing their first victory this season, the Tigers shocked finals aspirantMacedon witha strong displayinthe first three quarters, and an upsetwas on the cards before the Cats regrouped and controlled the ball to win by 32 points.

TheCatshad nine separatescorers,and last term dominanceenabled them to continue awinning streak, which has carried them to sixthplace on the ladder,displacing Romsey. Evergreen Matt Dick again showedhis versatility and leadership qualities forthe Cats.

Tigers'captain RileyO'Mearawas in fine form, and Tom Sayers kicked five goals.

So closeinkey netball match

Therewas only one close matchinRiddell District A-grade netball on Saturday.

Third-placed Lancefield welcomed fifthplaced Macedon and scores were very close throughout, It wasanyone'sgamefromthe first term.

Firstone side,then the other,would edge ahead with theCatsleading 26-23 at half time.

Macedon coachKatie Clarkesaidshe waspleased with her side's overall effort, and players hadearnedaneasyweek, with a social get-together coming up.

Bothsides were belowfull strength, with ClaireOakley23, and Chloe Eyre 15 the main scorersfor the Cats. Shanae Brundell 25 and Darcee Ellard 16 scored forthe Tigers

Bronte Greene (Macedon)and MiaDaly (Lancefield) were listed as bestfor their sides.

Second-placed Riddell went on ascoring spree to outclass Melton South76-22, with BecColwell scoring 43 goals; Charlize Bellettescored50asRomseydemolished DiggersRest 75-27, and Gisborne Giants are fourth afterdowning Melton South61-43. With 2024 Ryan Medallist Tilly Shepherdshining again, an improving Kyneton defeated Wallan 52-39. Resultsofnetball matches in the Riddell League on Saturdaywere:

A-grade: Macedon 43 dLancefield 41, Romsey75d DiggersRest 27, Kyneton52 dWallan 39, Riddell 76 dMelton South 22, Gisborne Giants 61 dMelton Centrals 43

Currentladder: Woodend-Hesket 40, Riddell 36, Lancefield 32, Gisborne Giants 32, Macedon 28, Romsey 24, Melton Centrals 20,Wallan 18, Kyneton16, Melton South 11, DiggersRest 8.

B-grade: Lancefield 44 dMacedon 39, Romsey60d Diggers Rest 35, Melton Centrals 60 dGisborne Giants 39, Riddell 72 d Melton South20, Wallan 46 dKyneton39.

Ladder: Riddell 44, Lancefield 40, Melton Centrals 38, Macedon 34, Romsey 28, Wallan 24, Kyneton16, Woodend-Hesket 16, Gisborne Giants 12, Melton South 12, Diggers Rest 4.

C-grade: Riddell 47 dMelton South 17, Wallan 29 dKyneton17, Macedon 40 d Lancefield 13, Romsey 28 drew with Diggers Rest 28, Gisborne Giants 53 dMelton Centrals 22.

D-grade: Kyneton52d Wallan 17, Melton South 45 dRiddell 19, Lancefield 30 d Macedon 15, DiggersRest 53 dRomsey9, Gisborne Giants 37 dMelton Centrals 15

19&Under: Wallan 65 dKyneton3,Riddell 45 dMelton South 33, Lancefield 25 d Macedon 18, Romsey43d DiggersRest 30, Melton Centrals 50 dGisborne Giants 42.

Contemplation:left to right— Macedon A-gradersTaylah Chamra, CaitlynMuir and Molly McGrath looking forwardtothe final quarter.Photo:Bill West

“Belief” wasthe word Lancefieldcoach Ryan O’Mearaused to try to inspirehis side with the matchin the balance.

Final message: Macedoncoach Al Meldrum callsonhis players fora special effort as their lead is a fragileeightpoints entering the last quarter

Lionsroar overSteaders

Harcourt FNC welcomed Newstead FNCtothe den last Saturdayinround 11 of the Maryborough Castlemaine District Football NetballLeague.

Both sides game into the match fresh offwins over Dunolly and Campbells Creek respectively and were determined to continue on apositivenote.

However, the Lions got outtoanearly lead in the opening term kicking fivegoals to theSteaders' one.

Harcourt continued to dominate in the second stanza slamming on another fivegoals to double their score, while the Roos battledhard, and kicked twogoals of their own, theystill trailed by 44 points at half-time.

Thethirdquarter wasa real arm wrestle with neither side making areal impact, the Lions managing just threepoints and the Steaderstwo points.

Forty-fivepoints separated the sides at the final change.

TheLions brokethe shackles in the final term kicking another four goalsand holding the valiantRoos to just one pointtowin by 71 points.

Best forthe Lions were JedRodda with 4goals, Cameron Anderson, KalebMcBride, Alex Jensen, Braydon Vazand Joshua Hogg Best forthe SteaderswereJedd Pedretti, Joel Smith, Nicholas Woodman, Michael Dalrymple, Jovian Goulton and Koby Smith.

Trentham posted a106-pointwin overNavarre.

TheSaints laid the foundations forthe win witha massive 12-goal-to-one opening term.

TheGrasshoppersfoughtbackinthe second kicking two goals, but theSaints continued to hold sway kicking another four goalstolead by acommanding 82 points at half-time.

Trentham continued the onslaughtinthe third, piling on another six goalsand holding the Grasshopperstojustfour points. To their credit, Navarredid notbow their heads and playedtheir best footyofthe dayinthe final term kicking 3.3 while holding the Saints to just 1.4. Butthe damagewas done and the Saints claimed awell-deserved win.

Best forTrentham were JamesRegan with9 goals cementing his placeonthe MCDFNL's Leading Goal Scorer table, withother topperformersincluding Joel Dovaston, Cooper Webber-Mirkin, Thomas Fuller,EdwardFanning, and Zachary Gervasoni.

Campbells Creek hosted the Maryborough Giants.

TheCreek Magpie side has shown alot of improvement as the season has progressed and were hopefulofgetting their first win on the board.

However, the Giants got the jump on the Magpies in thefirst term, kicking six goalstoCreek'sthree to lead by 17 points at quarter-time.

Creek continued to battle hardin the second term and were rewarded with 3.3 to theGiants' 2.4 to win the term but trailed by 10 points at the long break. Creek kept their hopes alivewithanother twoimportantgoals in the third. Butthe Giants had all the answers, kicking another four to extend their bufferto23 points at thefinal change.

Creek continued to throweverything theyhad into the match in the final term kicking another 3.3 to theGiants 2.4 but in theend the Giantsheld on to win their second match of the year by 18 points.

Best forCreek were Nicholas O’Brien with 3goals, Lachlan Hyland, Mitchell Stevens, Mitchell Langley, Tyson Williams and Thomas Langley.

Maldon made the journeytoDeledio ReservetotakeonDunolly and both sides were determined to notchup another win.

TheEagles peggedthrough five goals to theDonners' one in the opening term to lead by 24 points at thebreak.

Maldon bounced back in the second kicking four goalsto the Eagles three but still trailed by 20 points at half-time.

TheEagles dominatedthe thirdterm kicking another three and holding the visitorstojust1.1

At the final changetheyheld a34-pointadvantage.

Sensing victory,Dunolly slammed thethrottle down in the final term smashing through another half adozengoals and shutting down Maldon's avenuestogoal keeping them to asolitary pointtowin the match by 71 points.

Best fora valiantMaldon were Noah Thompson, Coby Bennett,AshleyDavies, AshleyWoodman, MaxJohns and Damian Wust.

In other matches, NatteBealiba defeated Avoca by 69 points and Lexton lost to Talbotby59points. Carisbrook had the bye.

On the netball court in AGrade matches, Campbells Creek 46 lost to Maryborough Giants 84. Best forCreek wasElouise Jones. Dunolly 47 defeated Maldon 25. Best for Maldon wasSophie Bennett. Harcourt 41 lost to Newstead 59. Best forthe Lions wasJordan Bagley. Best forthe Steaderswas Brianna Jury.Trentham 52 defeated Navarre25. Best forthe Saints wasKaseyButton. NatteBealiba 59 lost to Avoca 68. Lexton 49 lost to Talbot51. Carisbrook had the bye

This weekend

In round 12 matches this weekend, Carisbrook welcomes Trentham,Talbothosts Campbells Creek, Navarretackles NatteBealiba, Maryborough Giants take on Harcourt,Avoca welcomes Dunolly,and Newstead hosts neighboursMaldon. Lexton has the bye.

United comesout firing

United came outofthe blocks firing against adevelopingKangaroos outfit over theweekend.

Thefirst half sawGKU dominate, holding Sunbury scoreless. Sixdifferentplayers hitthe scoreboardfrom United, with Emma Williams leading the charge andfinishing with asolid three goalsfor the day.

Theusual suspectswereinfine form, with Todorovic, Ainslie and Macumber all named among thebest. Brancatisano wasdominantinthe ruck, while Hateleymadeher presence

felt in both the forwardand backline as akey player

GKU’sdefencesaw moreaction in the second half as the Kangaroos began to find form. Theexperienced Kirbysisters, Pazsa, and Cecchini all stood up in astrongthirdand fourth quarter.Bell and Gill were Sunbury’s goal scorers.

GKU 8-7-55 defSunbury Kangaroos 2-3-15.

GKU willtakeonRoxburgh Park on SaturdayJuly 5at11.50am at Lakeside Reserve.

Macedon, Riddell and Romsey were the winnersinRDFNL women'sfootball at the weekend.

Premiership favouriteMacedon retained itsunbeatenrecordwith a6.7 to 0.1 victory over Lancefield.

Bottomside Romsey led throughoutto defeat MountAlexander Falcons 7.5 to 3.3. Riddell wonits fifth match with afine 9.14 to 2.1 effort against Melton.

Netball

Lion Cameron Anderson is descended upon by Newstead opponents. Photo: Max Lesser

Alexia Todorovic was among GKU’s best

Photo: Christina Todorov

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ForSale

$2,250,000 -$2,350,000

View Saturday5th July 11:30am -12:00pm

Gisborne 5428 4007 rh.com.au/gisborne Lot5&9Rubina Court, Gisborne

We areexcited to announce therelease of premium lots in thebeautiful town of Gisborne. These spacious blocks range from 723m²to1158m², providingthe perfect canvas foryour dream home.Act fast to secure your piece of paradise in theMacedon Ranges. Don’t miss out on this exceptionalopportunity to build your futureinone of Gisborne’smost desirable locations!

DavidOliver 0403 023 706

Gisborne 5428 4007 rh.com.au/gisborne

64 Willowbank Road, Gisborne From702m2

Situated in ahighly sought-after area of Gisborne,these lotsare just ashortwalk to thenewly builtWillowbank PrimarySchool, localchildcarefacilities, and picturesque parks. Enjoyeasy freeway access,makingcommutes to Melbourne and Bendigoa breeze.All lotscome with essential services, ensuring aseamlessbuilding process.

JasonWoodford-Smith 0478000 441

ForSale

$505,000 -$550,000

Gisborne 5428 4007 rh.com.au/gisborne