Mount Alexander Shire Council is advocating for federal funding to deliver an affordable housing development in Castlemaine ahead of the upcoming federal election.
The project will create 22 affordable rental apartments on council land at 65 Templeton Street.
Apartments will be amix of one and two bedrooms, a household type that is currently lacking locally
“Our community desperately needs more affordable rental homes,” said the mayor,CrRosie Annear At the 2021 census, Mount Alexander Shire recorded
15 per cent of occupied homes were available as rentals (e.g. private, public and community housing). This is almost half the state average of 27.4 per cent, and much less than the City of Greater Bendigo figure of 26.9 per cent.
Information from local real estate agents indicates that available rentals in the shire have dropped even further with the sale of ex-rentals.
“When you look at the data, and combine that with what we’re hearing from our community,it’shard not to be
‘We’re notgivingup’
alarmed about the lack of affordable rental housing here,” Cr Annear said.
“This is why we absolutely need this Templeton Street development project funded."
The project for affordable rental housing in central Castlemaine has been in the pipeline since 2021.
In 2022, community members provided input on the proposal, with more than 80 per cent of survey respondents supportive of the council’splans to proceed.
Continued page 2
In an exciting new chapter for women’sfootball, the Kyneton Women’sFootball Club and the Gisborne Football Netball Club women’sfootball team have announced anew partnership for the 2025 season. Continued page 3.
‘We’re not giving up’
From page 1.
In 2023, Mount Alexander Shire councillors unanimously agreed to go ahead with the project, in partnership with local community housing provider Haven Home Safe.
Since then, Haven Home Safe and the council have been seeking funding for the apartment development.
Due to costs associated with advancing the project and levels of available funding, the original plan to progress both 30A and 65 Templeton Street at the same time has been revised and will now be completed in stages, with 65 Templeton Street put forward first.
“65 Templeton Street is centrally located land in Castlemaine, can accommodate local people in need of affordable housing, and will help ease housing stress in our community –it’sa win-win,” Cr Annear said.
The council and community housing partner Haven Home Safe have already worked through initial design work on the site in preparation for funding.
“Weare ready to engage with our community once the planning consultation process can begin,” Cr Annear said.
“Wejust need the funding so we can press the go button."
Council CEO Darren Fuzzard and Cr Annear have been meeting with state and federal representatives to put forward the Templeton Street project as an election priority
“Investment from the federal government will give our community faith that our concerns are being listened to, and acted on, at the very highest level,” Cr Annear said.
“At alocal government level, we’re doing what we can to support the increase of affordable housing in our shire.
“We’re helping make this happen by providing the council land, partnering with trusted community housing providers to deliver the housing, setting up the Mount Alexander Affordable Housing Trust, and working with the state to release land for affordable housing.
“There’sa long way to go, but we’re not giving up. Affordable housing requires collaboration across all levels of government, in partnership with our community –and we’ll continue to do that in the coming weeks, months and years ahead.
“Weknow that our community also cares deeply about the housing situation and we encourage you to let all of the local candidates in the federal election know if you support our request for funding of the Templeton Street project."
of aproposed
Snapshot on housing needs
Snapshot on affordable housing needs in Mount Alexander Shire:
Mount Alexander Shire Council CEO Darren Fuzzard and mayor, Cr Rosie Annear, at the rear of the site
affordable housing development in Castlemaine.
Here's what one of our happy customers had to say...
United to playon
From page 1.
Both clubs have come together to form a hybrid team—Gisborne-Kyneton United—to compete in the Essendon District Football League.
This collaboration unites two passionate, committed clubs with shared values of inclusivity,community spirit, player development and professionalism. Both clubs have arich history of success and pride, and this partnership presents an exciting opportunity to elevate their women’sfootball programs in the region.
The Kyneton women’steam, formerly under the Kyneton FNC, has astrong track record, having featured in the Riddell League grand final in both 2023 and 2024. The team won their first premiership in the inaugural year of the RDFNL 2023 senior women’scompetition. Alarge number of the players, dissatisfied with gender equity at Kyneton FNC, decided to form their own club at the end of last season.
Meanwhile, the GFNC women’steam has demonstrated astrong commitment to growth and achievement, quickly gaining recognition for its player development programs. The club has also worked with talented coach and VWFL life member Bernie Marantelli to relaunch their senior women’s program for 2025.
Gisborne-Kyneton United will combine the best elements of both clubs, blending their talent, experience and resources to form acompetitive team for the 2025 season. This partnership will foster astronger environment for player development while emphasising community and teamwork.
“It’sa really exciting time for both clubs,” said Natalie Korinfsky,president of the Kyneton Women’sFootball Club.
“This partnership with Gisborne allows us to grow both of our women’steams together for the season, ensuring that both clubs remain strong, sustainable and competitive moving forward. This collaboration will give our players the opportunity to stay together in 2025, while also learning from the talented players and leaders at Gisborne FNC.”
GFNC president, Tony Brancatisano, echoed those sentiments.
“We’ve been eager to grow our women’sfootball program, and this partnership is afantastic way to do that," he said.
"The shared values between our clubs are undeniable, and we’re looking forward to what we can achieve together in 2025. This is ahuge step forward for both our teams and our local women’sfootball communities.”
This partnership will last for the 2025 EDFL season, with the Kyneton Wo Football Club planning to reapply for RDFNL in 2026. While the collaboration will span just one season, both clubs hope this partnership will pave the way
continued growth and greater opportunities in the region.
“Wesee this as aunique opportunity to build something special,” added Kyneton’s coach, Phil Hawkes.
“While this is aone-season partnership, our focus will be on creating the best environment for our players. After 2025, we’ll work hard to return to the RDFNL for 2026, and Gisborne will undoubtedly continue to
Horse neglect investigated
RSPCA Victoria is investigating multiple animal cruelty reports regarding horses at erties in the Macedon Ranges and Mitchell Shire.
"Weappreciate the community’sconcern, and can assure those who are worried, inspectorate has active investigations into these matters and have attended the properties reported more than 20 times over the last few months and will continue to do so based animal welfare needs," an RSPCA spokesperson said last week.
"This is acomplex matter,with multiple animals, properties and multiple different now involved."
They said RSPCA inspectors had previously dealt with two primary properties, however with movement of horses this had increased.
"Wecan confirm any previously reported injured horses have all received appropriate veterinary care," they said.
"Our inspectors will continue to attend the sites and monitor the wellbeing of the horses ensuring those responsible for their care comply with their legal obligations to provide food, water and vet care.
"As we receive new reports with any new information, we will continue to investigate them, however,itisvital reports are based offeye-witnessaccounts and not only from what is seen on social media.
"These often contain incorrect or out-of-date information such as inaccurate addresses making it difficult to investigate causing unnecessary delays in an investigation.
"As this is an active investigation, we urge people not to take matters into their own hands as any interference from the public could compromise the outcome, so we ask people to please show restraint."
RSPCA Victoria inspectors are the only authorised officers under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act who can enforce and prosecute horse welfare in the state and have received nearly 390 jobs related to horses since December 1, 2024.
Anyone with concerns about the welfare of animals with first-hand information is urged to make areport to RSPCA Victoria via: rspcavic.org/cruelty-report/ or by calling 03 9224 2222.
The newly formed Gisborne-Kyneton United team in action during training last week.
Photo: Ties Urie
RSPCA Victoria is investigating animal cruelty reports regarding horses at properties Macedon Ranges and Mitchell Shire.
Police have released an image of aman they believe may be able to assist with their enquiries.
Aggravated burglary investigated
Police are investigating an aggravated burglary and theft of motor vehicle in Kyneton last month.
Investigators have been told an unknown offender stole awhite Isuzu DMAX ute, with registration 1ZN3ER and council decals, from aPiper Street address overnight between February 4and 5.
The vehicle was last seen on February 9 at aservice station on Barker Street, Castlemaine, where an unknown man attempted to purchase fuel on afraudulentfuel card.
Police have released an image of aman they believe may be able to assist with their enquiries.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit aconfidential report online via: crimestoppersvic.com.au.
Meet your Councillors
Morgan Reinwald
Afirebroke outin bushland behind DixonField in Gisborne last Thursday afternoonand wasquickly broughtunder controlbyfirefighters
Children asyoung as nine were playing soccerand training forLittle Athletics some 20 metres away when the blazeoccurred. TheGisborne Giants Under 15 football team wasalso training nearby.
David Sierocinski, a23-year-old, was runningnearbywhen he sawsmoke ap-
pearing from the treeline. He reported the blazetofireauthorities who arrived 10 minutes later.
"I thoughtitwas just someone doing aburn offtotakeadvantageofthe rain. That's whenIdecided to go andcheck it out. Iwas maybe four metres away from wherethe firewas,"Sierocinski said.
Amother, who requested to remain anonymous, waspresentwith her three children.
"Itwas spreading quiterapidly.But then, fortunately,the rain got heavier and that
kind of dulled it.Whereas if it had been last night–the rain, the wind and the heat–it wouldhavebeen adifferentstory," she said.
Thelocation is frequentedbyteenagers who swim in the adjacentJacksons Creek. It is also the same location whereagroup of teenagersbuilt acubby house in 2019 and garnered state-wide media attention when the Macedon Ranges Council tore it down over safety concerns.
Thecause of thefireisnot yetknown and remains under investigation.
Cars collide on Calder
Twopeople were hospitalised follwing acar crash on the Calder Freeway last Friday morning.
Acar carrying atrailer was headed northbound when it collided with two other vehicles near the main exit to Sunbury Astatement from police confirmed a32-year-old Lalor man was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries and a39-year-old Reservoir man was taken to hospital for observation. Transport authorities closed all north-bound lanes while crews worked to remove the vehicles and clean up debris on the freeway. Regular travel along the freeway resumed after about two hours.
They’reagreat way to ask questions, learn about local government and tell us whatmatters to you.
Councillors arevisiting towns acrossthe shireoverthe coming months, with Cr Phillip Walker stoppingby Elphinstone,Taradale and Chewton this week.
Cr Phillip Walker
When: Thursday27March, 9.00amto11.00am Where: Elphinstone Post Office
When: Thursday27March, 11.15am to 1.15pm Where: OxArt Pottery,Taradale
When: Thursday27March, 2.00pm to 4.00pm Where: Ellery Park, Chewton
mountalexander.vic.gov.au (03) 5471 1700 Want to gettoknowyour local Councillor? Stop by alistening postfor achat.
Rain prevented the fire from spreading before CFA volunteers arrived.
Aspectacular start! A speccttacular starrtt! !
Car thefts increase
Police have reported an increase in motor vehicle theft as of late, particularly from train stations. The Macedon Ranges Crime Activity Facebook group reported a Toyota Land Cruiser 200 Series was stolen from Gisborne RailwayStation on Thursday morning. AHolden Commodore VF was also stolen that same morning shortly after 7am from Kyneton Railway Station. Police want to remind the public, “If you see something, say something”. Information can be provided online at crimestopers.com.au, or by calling 1800 333 000.
Cafe robbed, boy arrested
Local police executed asearch warrant and arrested a12-year-old boy in Kyneton last Wednesday after he was believed to have burgled acafe on Mollison Street earlier that morning. Macedon Ranges Crime Investigation Unit confirmed they recovered an amount of cash and other items stolen from the cafe. The child was released pending summons for multiple offences and is expected to appear in court at alater date.
Marching for acure forcommon cancer
Melanoma Institute Australia will host the inaugural Melanoma March Woodend at Campaspe Park on Sunday,March 30.
The event aims to raise awareness and funds to save lives from melanoma –the most common cancer affecting 20 to 39-year-old Australians.
Woodend'sSara Lilley was just 25 years old and about to board aplane for her European adventure when she was diagnosed with melanoma on her stomach. It was in-situ and removed through surgery,but she said the diagnosis was life-changing.
"As ayoung person, you feel invincible —skin cancer isn’t something you think about while soaking up the sun. Even though I’ve always worn SPF 50+, I've learned it’snot enough on its own," she said.
"When Iwas first diagnosed, my immediate thought was, 'Am Idying?' The news was amassive shock —itmade me reflect on my past as asun-lover and the complacency Ionce had, believing Iwas somehow immune to skin cancer
"With my fair skin, I’m now more vigilant than ever.Icover up and seek shade."
Sara said she now told everyone who would listen to be sun safe.
"I’m passionate about raising awareness
through the Melanoma March. Both my dad and grandfather had melanomas, so it runs in the family,but it wasn’t until my diagnosis that Itruly understood the risk. I’m sharing my story because people need to understand: atan isn’t worth dying for."
All funds raised this year will go towards the updating and clinical promotion of the National Melanoma Clinical Guidelines.
This year’scampaign focuses on the dangers of tanning and the need for all Australians to follow the five sun safe rules to prevent melanoma and other skin cancers.
Australia has the highest melanoma rates in the world. One person is diagnosed with melanoma every 30 minutes and one person dies from the disease every six hours.
Australians are encouraged to register now for aMelanoma March event near them. Those who can’t attend an event can still support the campaign by getting active and hosting aMarch Your Wayactivity with friends or individually
To register or donate to Melanoma March, visit: melanomamarch.org.au
Melanoma March is an initiative of Melanoma Institute Australia. It is supported by Melanoma Patients Australia and Australian Melanoma Research Foundation
Castlemaine was alive with excitement Saturday night as the 2025 Castlemaine Fringe Festival kicked offwith abang! The Street Party Spectacular was attended by more than 4000 festival-goers. The Movement Zone dancers (pictured) were among the local talent to feature. Photo: Diana Domonkos
Rave to remember
The Good Grief Remembrance Rave is acommunity music and dance event bringing people together to play songs that remind them of their loss and celebrate their memories through the arts, during the Castlemaine Fringe Festival.
Local Death Café founder Hayley West will act as DJ to facilitate the two-hour event, together with agrief counsellor,ifpeople wish to share their stories.
Good Grief producer Jill Rivers is encouraging families to come to the event to listen to the music, move and mourn together as an all-generations event –just as grief affects us all.
She is inviting people to add their songs to Hayley’slist on Facebook or to email her directly with their choices on hello@art-fullliving.com or SMS 0418 389 189.
Celebrate your memories in music and dance on Wednesday April 2, 6pm8pm at the Flamin' Galah Fringe Hub (Castlemaine Senior Citizen’sCentre, Mechanics Lane, Castlemaine).
Education to art
Students at Kyneton Primary School will turn learning into an artform this year with a$35,000 grant through the Victorian Government’sCreative Learning Partnerships program.
The project will see Kyneton students collaborate with artists from Threshold on acreative exploration of the life cycle, reflecting on nature, growth and change through theatre, music and art creation.
Literarylegend honoured
Weekend Flu Vaccine Clinics
Macedon Ranges author John Marsden's lifeand legacy will be celebrated witha Victorian Premier’sLiterary Awardtobe named in his honour
TheJohnMarsden Prizefor Writing forYoung Adults will be awarded nextyear, honouring the late literary legend who died last December
John Marsdenbegan his career as ateacher before his first book, So Much to Tell You,was published in 1987 –itbecame an international bestseller and wonmultiple awardsincluding aVictorian Premier’s Literary Awardin1988.
Marsden went on to create one of themostsuccessfuleverAustralian book series foryoung adults, the seven-book Tomorrow series. Beginning with Tomorrow,When the WarBegan in 1993, the series won severalawardsinAustralia and garnered international acclaim before spurring asecond wildly successful book series TheEllie Chronicles
Over the course of his writing career,Marsden published morethan 40 books. He wasalsoacommitted educator, teaching at schools in NSWand Victoria.
In 2006, he established the alternativeCandlebark School in the Macedon Ranges and 10 yearslater he opened an arts-focused secondary school in the region, AliceMiller School.
Marsden wasdriven to inspireyoungpeople to writeand visited thousands of schools, delivering talks and workshops. He wasalsothe patron of youth literary organisation Express Media.
To be awarded as part of the Victorian Premier’sLiterary Awards in 2026, the John Marsden Prizefor Writing forYoung Adults will be worth $25,000.
Thewinner will also go in the running forthe Victorian Prizefor Literature, which includes afurther $100,000 in prizemoney.
CEOofThe Wheeler Centre Erin Vincent, who worked withMarsden at the ABC, said Marsden wasinspiring to many.
"John Marsden’s impact on young adult literatureisimmeasurable, inspiring creativity and igniting alove of reading among young audiences around theworld,"Vincentsaid.
"Only someone withsuch deep respect foryoung people could createsuch belovedcharactersthatwill liveoninour national memory. TheWheeler Centre is thrilled to honour John Marsden as part of the 2026 Victorian Premier’s Literary Awards."
Marsden's family welcomed the naming of the award.
"John wasapioneer in creating literaturethatwas accessible and meaningfultoyoung adults,"theysaid.
"Itwas his lifelong passion, and we look forwardwith excitementto seeing this prizeawarded, therebycontinuing John's greatlegacy."
Repair broken appliances
The next Castlemaine and surrounds Repair Cafe is on March 30, 10am-1pm at the Castlemaine Community House.
Enter via the car park and garden to the back door.Take along broken household appliances, sewing repairs and small wooden items that need attention or maybe knives to be sharpened. Youcould learn basic bicycle maintenance, get Apple Mac advice or join the Mending Circle to learn darning ,crochet etc.
Please ensure items are clean before taking them to the Cafe, respecting the repairers and maybe making the job easier.A gold coin donation is appreciated. Enquiries to Chris on 5470 5508 and if leaving amessage, leave name and number clearly
Woodend Haiku Festival is here Fessttival
Pop-up haiku poets, haiku readings and workshops will be celebrated at the Woodend Haiku Festival to be held throughout April.
Local poet and festival director,Myron Lysenko, is arepresentative of the Australian Haiku Society and has organised arange of activities to celebrate all things haiku, coinciding with International Haiku Day on April 17.
Lysenko is the convenor of the monthly spoken word event Chamber Poets, and is an avid promoter and teacher of haiku.
From April 1-30, pop-up haiku poets will entertain at various locations. Poets will give short readings of haiku, or write ahaiku for you as they appear spontaneously in public places.
Enjoy aBYO Haiku Picnic Woodend Children'sPark'sbarbecue area on April 2, from 10am to 1pm. Learn how to write haiku with the help of experienced haiku poets. Visit for afew minutes or stay the full time. Bring your own picnic lunch.
Event is free.
Chamber Poets #109, Woodend RSL, will feature internationally renowned poets from the Victorian based haiku group The Fringe Myrtles on April 12 from 1pm to 4pm. There
will also be an Open Section and music by Black Forest Smoke. Food and drink available. Entry by $10 donation.
Woodend Library will host afree event to celebrate the magical, wonderful world of haiku on April 17 from 10am to midday.Listen to readings or be guided into writing your own.
Woodend Neighbourhood House will host afree event from 1.30pm to 3.30pm that afternoon. Poets will read haikus, write one about you or help you write one yourself.
AHaikuDinner will be held at The Victoria Hotel, Woodend, on April 30 from 6pm to 8pm. Cost is $22which includes ameal and drink.
Once people have sharpened their skills in the art of haiku they can test them in a festival competition with the theme of 'autumn. There will beUnder 18 and Open Age sections. Book prizes will be announced for the two winners. Entry is free.
Email one to three haiku you have written to the festival director via: myronlibrary@ gmail.com
For more information, visit the Australian Haiku Society website: australianhaikusociety.org/ or join the Facebook page: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565799118780
The Fringe Myrtles are pictured performing at Chamber Poets.
Legacy project completed y t complete
Jade Jungwirth
After more than adecade closed to traffic, the Vaughan-Tarilta bridge (or low-level crossing as the experts call it) has been replaced.
The original timber bridge crossing the Loddon River was built in 1868. The closure of this vital crossing has caused long detours and limited access for locals.
The replacement concrete crossing came with amillion dollar price tag –$892,000 through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program and $146,000 from Mount Alexander Shire Council.
Former councillor Christine Henderson said she had been on council for 16 years and the crossing was put on the table in her second year
"There'sonly so much money every year to be allocated to bridges, and all 256 of the bridges [in the shire] probably need replacing, but the Vaughan-Tarilta bridge was slated for development. It was going to be demolished and anew bridge put in. Great," she said.
"Wepassed it [the motion] and then a deputation from Vaughan came to acouncil meeting saying, 'Don't you dare take away our bridge! Don't you dare! It'sa heritage bridge, it'sbeautiful, we're not losing the bridge'. And we said, 'Okay.It'sgoing to cost us close to amillion dollars, so alright we'll back offand replace another bridge, which really needs doing', so the money got diverted.
"That was fine, until one day acar was driving over the bridge and put its wheel through the deck. Oh, dear! It must be time to close the bridge. That was when the fun started," Ms Henderson said.
Continuing the animated story of the
bridge, Ms Henderson spoke about the need for an access road, one that was never built and with no land allocated to the council for the purpose, which required an act of parliament. Heritage groups then stepped in and said the bridge could not be developed, leaving the council unsure how to proceed.
"These are just some of the fun times we've had in trying to get alevelcrossing across this beautiful river,the Loddon River –the second longest in
Kinder kits to roll out
Children starting three-year-old kindergarten will receive afree Kinder Kit full of books, toys and stationery.The Victorian Government unveiled the kits last week that will roll out to about 70,000 children. The kits include playdough, crayons, stacking blocks, seeds and books from Australian authors. This year’sKinder Kits double as abackpack that can be opened into afelt
playing surface for imaginative play.Other fun, educational items for kids include timber story rollers, acolouring book, ajumping frog game, acard game exploring maths concepts, and felt stickers that can be used to create stories on the backpack’slining. Every item in the kits is recommended by education experts to support learning through play
Victoria," she said.
"Then there was acrossing proposed, and that was going great for awhile and then in came an agency who said, 'No, you can't do that because the fish won't like it. The fish won't go under the dark section and that'sgoing to be aproblem, so you can't do that'. Oh dear!
"And so it went on and on and on. But Igot my teeth into this, this is going to happen. There is an ancient crossing that I bet has been aplace to cross the river for
thousands and thousands of years," Ms Henderson said.
During her fourth term as acouncillor, the crossing was one of Ms Henderson's big drivers, despite the fact it was not part of her 'patch'. Learning that Federal MP Lisa Chesters had provided money through afederal program that would be allocated to the crossing, she was overjoyed that the project she had fought so long for,had finally been achieved.
"I am so happy it hasbeen built!"
Programs &Services
Children, Youth andFamily Services
Events
Cooking for Blokes
Developmentalchallenges in children are morecommon than many parents realise, but early intervention is keyto preventing moreseriousissues lateron.
Dhelkaya Health's team works with children aged 0-17 years to address developmental delays and disabilities. Services include speechpathology, physiotherapy, podiatry, occupational therapy, dietetics, continence, nursing and access to apaediatrician.
T. 5479 3575
Opportunities
Work Experience
We offer Year 10 and11secondary school students first-hand exposure to awiderange of roles within the healthcare sector through ourWork Experience Program
T: 5471 3234
2Podiatrist –Ongoing/full-time
Learn to cook for yourself, improvise with what you have in the cupboard and use seasonal produce to prepare nutritious meals. This 4-week course helps men build everyday cookingskills and gain confidence in the kitchen.
Adedicatedteamofcyclists are tackling a120km route across Mt Alexander, Mt Tarrengower and Mt Franklin. The ride will push the riders to their limits,but it’s all in support of agreat cause.
•Health Care Worker –Ongoing/part-time or full-time
•Facilities Team Leader –Ongoing/full-time
•Social Worker (Grade 2) –Ongoing/part-time
|(03) 54713555
MP Lisa Chesters, council staff and residents celebrate the official opening of the Vaughan-Tarilta low-level crossing.
Artprize opens
Macedon Ranges Accessible Arts has announced an open call for artists to participate in 2025 Queerthentic.
With more than $2000 worth of prizes to be won, Queerthentic showcases adiverse range of artists across regional Victoria. Now in its third year,Regional LGBTQIA+ Art Prize will again be held at The Old Auction House, Kyneton, May 1-26.
Queerthentic seeks to provide aplatform for queer artists aged 16 year and over,from all backgrounds, mediums and levels of experience, to celebrate the power of lived experience, amplify underrepresented voices and build connections within the broader community
It aims to create aspace wherequeer artists can authentically express themselves without the pressure to conform or be palatable to amain stream audience. It also encourages meaningful conversations and deeper understanding in the community
Artists working in any medium, including visual arts, sculpture and still digital art, are encouraged to apply
The exhibition is open to both emerging and established artists who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community
Applications are open until April 20. For submission guidelines or to apply,visit: mraai.org.au/queerthentic25
Four hoursofmagical music
ResonanceString Orchestraishosting aBig String Day on SaturdayatCastlemaine Secondary College.
Theall-ages eventwill include music, team-building games, whole orchestra sessions and instrument-based tutorials.
Thetutorials will be led by Resonanceco-artistic director Emma Wade, and Maryborough Education Performing Arts CoordinatorSarina Walter and co-artisticdirector Heather Cummins.
SamGoble, Lizzy Welshand CharlotteRyssenbeek will also be taking tutorials, mentoring and ensureeveryone has agreat time!
BigString Day (madepossible by financial support from the UlumbarraFoundation’s ‘Performing Arts PowerUp’ Grants)is open to students with established beginner skills to Grade 2 AMEB standardfromMacedon Ranges, MountAlexander, and neighbouring shires.
Co-artistic director Heather Cummins told the Express thatthe BigString Daywas an invitation forestablished beginnerstocome and try "Itwill be four hoursofmagicalmusic making,"she said.
"Students can come as aone offorasataster before theyjoin the Apprenti Stringsprogram."
Resonancehas been running ahigh quality,supportiveintergenerational string orchestraprogram forbeginnerstoadvanced players in Castlemaine and Woodend, formorethan15years,and is renowned forthe quality of its work and the fulfilling experienceplayers have BigString Day will finish witha short performancefor families and aQ&A.Students canattend the session as aone-offexperience,orjoinupfor our year-long Apprenti Stringsprogram after the event.
Thecost is $40 per student, which is payable on the day. It's on from 9am to 1pm on Saturday, March29atCastlemaine Secondary College.
Forfurther information or to registerand getthe sheetmusic, go to www.resonancestringorchestra.org.au
If youare unsure about your experiencelevel, email Heather at heather.violin@gmail.com.
Free Kinder: Enrol for2025.
Free Kinder is available forthree- and four-year-old children in Victoria at participating services. Free Kinder is available in sessional (standalone)and long daycare(childcare) settings, saving families up to $2,563each year,per child.
At kindergarten, your child will:
•learn language,literacyand numeracy skills through play, art, music and dance •learn to expressthemself and makefriends in asafeand caring environment •build skills and confidencebeforeprimary school.
Contact your preferred kinder serviceorlocal counciltolearnabouthow to enrolfor 2025. Visit vic.gov.au/kinder
LGBTIQ+ Award 2024 winner Alistaire Fowler’s work.
Big String Day is open to experienced beginners of all ages.
Riderstohostcampout
Castlemaine Rocky Riders Mountain Bike Club is holding a Family Camp Out at La Larr Ba Gauwa (Harcourt Mountain Bike Park) on Dja Dja Wurrung country on Saturday April 5.
Rocky Riders member Mandy Chilcott said they wanted to create an event that the entire family and mountain bike community could enjoy
"Finding an event that keeps everyone happy can be tricky, so you’ll find bushwalking, yoga, an Easter egg hunt, night walk and plenty of time to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery at the Oak Forest campground in Picnic Gully Road, Harcourt," Mandy said.
"Our junior committee members Max, Angus and Mitchell have been involved in the planning of this event and are looking forward to guiding the night walk and managing the Easter Egg hunt."
Participants will also be able to enjoy rides on both Saturday and Sunday
"Wehave green trail family rides, which allow young and novice riders to experience the joys of mountain bike riding," Mandy said.
"Our women’sride offers asupportive and inclusive environment, encouraging women to participate in mountain bike riding, and connect with acommunity of like-minded riders.
"And our intermediate ride is tailored to the more experienced riders, requiring agood level of fitness to ascend the trails and navigate the technical features on these trails."
On Sunday morning, earlybirds can enjoy aBodyBalance session combining tai chi, yoga and pilates before hitting the trails again.
The day will be capped offwith the Easter egg hunt and morning tea.
Entry to the Family Camp Out event is by way of adonation on the day.All funds raised will go to supporting the Harcourt Mountain Bike Park trail maintenance.
Any donation, big or small, is greatly appreciated.
Take your family and friends along for an action-packed weekend!
For more information and to register,check out the Castlemaine Rocky Riders Facebook page or visit rockyriders.com/ events
Driver injured at Hesket
A30-year-old woman was treated for minor injuries after shecrashed her car at Hesket last Thursday afternoon.
The driverand sole passenger wastravelling on Romsey Road about 4.15pm when her car veered offthe road and collided with atree. Conditions were wet at the time of the incident. In February,Macedon Ranges Shire Council reduced the speed limit along this road from 100 km/h to 80km/h due to its history of incidents and multiple complaints from residents.
Fatality at Woodend
Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding afatal crash in Woodend North yesterday morning.
It is understood acar left the roadway and crashed into apolenear the intersection of Old Lancefield Road and Clancys Lane about 6.30am.
The driver, a19-year-old Woodend man, died at the scene.
Anyone who witnessed the crash or with dashcam footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit aconfidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
FlowerShow returns
The Watts Pavilion at the Kyneton Showgrounds will be ablaze of colour and beauty when the Kyneton Horticultural Society presents its Annual Autumn Flower Show
The show will be held on Saturday April 5, 11.30am–4pm, and Sunday April 6,10am 3.30pm.
In addition to the horticulture displays there will be refreshments, local business trade stalls, artist in residence and plant sales.
The Society’smotto, ‘Show what you grow and tell what you know’, encourages all ages to enter something in the show From floral art through to cut flowers, foliage, native grasses, vegetables, pot plants and garden scavenger hunt displays.
If you have beenthinkingofentering you will need tobe quick, as entries close at 12pm on Tuesday April 1and no late entries will be accepted. Youcan find acopy of the schedule and entry details on the website at www.khs1894.com or go directly to the online entry form at events.humanitix.com/ exhibitorafs
If youwould like to pre purchase entry tickets you candosoatevents.humanitix. com/host/kyneton-horticultural-society and go to get tickets.
The show is agreat way to get involved in horticultural activities and enjoy afamily day out.
Take control of your health today
The GPspracticing at ourclinic arehighly trained and supported by ateam of friendly receptionistsand experienced nurses.
Castlemaine Rocky Riders Mountain Bike Club members invite community members to get along to their Family Camp Out at La Larr Ba Gauwa (Harcourt Mountain Bike Park) on April 5.
Making change happen
Fresh from 'Climate Action Week' held at the University of Technology in Sydney,Castlemaine is about to get adose of global action with atwist.
FutuResilience Events is bringing two exciting workshops to town, strengthening sustainability action with the globally recognised Inner Development Goals Framework.
First up, as part of the Women'sClimate Congress, on Friday March 28, they're hosting 'Empowering Collaborative Action' at Christ Church Hall. It'snot your average workshop –think 'Monopoly on steroids' for the planet, but way more fun and impactful!
Together with Canberra-based facilitator,Beth Mitchell, FutuResilience Events co-founder,Tanya Mottl, said the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals Game was agame-changer –literally!
"It'samazing to seehow asimulation can spark such deep insights about global sustainability.”
Her colleague and fellow FutuResilience Events co-founder, Wendy Harper,saidthatcombined with the 2030 SDGs Game, the IDGs were like the secret sauce for making real change happen.
"They help change-makers in every sector develop the inner skills essential to tackling the big, complex challenges of our times,” she said.
With asecond event scheduled during the Castlemaine Fringe Festival ('Shift Happens' Monday March 31, 10.45 -1.30pm also at Christ Church Hall) Wendy and Tanya are looking forward to engaging with groups seeking tools that can help them build resilience and effectively navigate the sustainability transition.
“The 2030 SDGs Game is apowerful simulation that delivers the kind of shifts that would otherwise take much greater lengths of time to achieve," Ms Mitchell said.
"One scientist who joined us for the session at UTS said he was very sceptical at first, but got so much out of the experience they are now considering how to incorporate the process into future projects to aid cooperative approaches and delivery of outcomes."
Castlemaine is definitely ahotspot for innovative approaches to sustainability.Don't miss your chance to play for the planet!
Youcan book your place via Humanitix at events.humanitix. com/host/futuresilience-events
Empowering women in theclimatecrisis
The stage is set for an unparalleled national level gathering of visionary leaders, changemakers and advocates at the Victorian Women'sClimate Congress 2025.
Taking place from March 28-30 at the Castlemaine Town Hall, this event is abeacon for women, in all diversity,todrive meaningful action for climate sustainability
The Congress will feature adynamic program of keynotes, workshops and panel discussions that delve into critical issues facing Australia, from climate resilience, innovative governance and business practices, to cultural inclusivity and women’sleadership.
Women'sClimate Congress founder Dr Janet Salisbury said the Congress was an important national event that would bring women together to creative transformative change.
"Wecome together to create aspace for women to bring priorities to the fore, to lead asystemicchange that would allow governments to take much more ambitious action on climate," she said.
The Women'sClimate Conference, established in 2020 to address climate change through inclusion, collaboration and women'sleadership, has spoken to thousands ofwomen since its inception. Their priorities have been used to inform the Women'sCharter for Change, which is designed to provide aframework for action.
"Our Charter for Change has 11 themed actions, three of them are about the things we have to do right now to secure the climate, which largely involve alot more collaboration," she said.
"Then there are eight key areas about planetary and human wellbeing that are all of the things the
women we speak to bring to the table. They are; inter-generational fairness, incorporating Indigenous knowledge, workingon relationship building, creating asustainable economy that is based on care rather than just on business andprofits, awellbeing economy –asuite of things that women would like to bring to the table if they really had access tothe policy agenda in afully authentic way," Dr Salisbury said.
With atheme of 'Building women’sempowerment in the climate crisis', the 2025 event will offer a unique platform for collaboration, learning and action.
Renowned thought leaders, politicians and innovators will share insights on the global and local challenges of our time, inspiring attendees to turn vision into action.
To book your place visit: events.humanitix.com/ victorian-congress-2025
FRRR seeks reps
Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal is currently seeking expressions of interest from suitably qualified people from remote, rural and regional Australia to sit on one of three bodies that advise the FRRR Board.
Twoofthe three are Program Advisory Committees seeking to refresh their membership and expand representation, while the third is acompletely new Outback Advisory Board.
FRRR CEO Natalie Egleton said each of these bodies played acritical role in the effective governance of the nearly $20 million that the Foundation awarded annually
“While our staffdovery thorough and detailed initial assessments of applications, for the most part it is the Program Advisory Committees that recommend where our scarce funds are allocated," she said.
"Toensure that we are directing grants where they are needed most, we have Program Advisory Committees comprising people with relevant lived experience sitting alongside FRRR directors and our donor partners.
"Their insights and knowledge of the subject matter are critical to our decisions.
“Right now,weare seeking people with experience or interest in mental health and community wellbeing to join our In aGood Place Program Advisory Committee, and people with experience in climate and energy transitions to join our Community Led Climate Solutions advisory committee,” Ms Egleton explained.
FRRR is also establishing an Outback Advisory Board, whose remit will be to advise the board more broadly on issues and opportunities in remote and outback Australia.
“Wehavesupported remote, rural and regional Australia for more than 25 years and it’sbecome apparent that remote, very remote and outback Australia has specific challenges and needs," Ms Egleton said.
"Toensure that our granting and capacity building support, and our advocacy,fully reflect this uniqueness, the board has decided to appoint an Outback Advisory Board. Its remit will be to bring anational perspective, as well as local knowledge, to our granting programs, as well as to our advocacy activities, such as submissions to Senate inquiries and the development of policy and issues papers."
Detailed role descriptions, as well as Expression of Interest Forms are available on the Work With Us page on FRRR’swebsite. EOIs close 5pm AEDT on Friday April 11, 2025.
Note, these roles are voluntary,but FRRR aims to have adiversity in membership, so the foundation will consider supporting successful applicants to address barriers to participation in these primarily virtual meetings.
Left to Right: Tanya Mottle, Beth Mitchell and Wendy Harper. Photo: Wendy Harper
The2025Victorian Women’s Climate Congress will be held at the Castlemaine Town Hall from March 28-30.
Piano
Pianos began appearing across Castlemaine and surrounds late last week as the Maine Guerilla Pianos launched their 2025 Castlemaine Fringe Festival project.
The local group is putting the spotlight on pianos and the fun of playing and listening throughout the Fringe (March 22-April 6) and is encouraging community members to jump on apiano and share their gifts with the community
The group held alaunch event at the Northern Arts Hotel on Friday evening, and will host various pop up events and concerts as part of the festival featuring their five 'Pianists at Large' –musical luminary and MPG patron Maggie Jackson, MPG president Paul Ryan, The Anticlinal Fold subversive Jem Challender,impro guru Jude Russell, and keys jazz man John Meir
The project is focused on promoting community music in the region.
Maine Piano Guerrillas, like gardening guerrillas, are
asmall group of friends who are saving pianos from the tip!
The group began as aconversation over coffee at Wesley Hill in late 2024. The project has grown from finding pianos to inviting well-known pianists to become the ‘Pianists at Large' or 'PALs’.
Maine Piano Guerrillas member Helen Sandercoe said all 10 pianos had been kindly donated for this event.
"They can be found at the front of the historic Castlemaine Market Building, the Senior Citizens Centre in Mechanics Lane aka the Flamin’ Galah Fringe Hub headquarters, the Taproom at Shedshaker Brewing at The Mill, Bridge Hotel, Castlemaine Community House and Northern Arts Hotel.
Helen said they were thrilled to also get access to the old Castlemaine Woollen Mill workers piano, which once stood in the former canteen area and can be found at the entrance to the Castlemaine Vintage Bazaar at The Mill during the festival.
"There is another two further afield the at Albion Hotel in Wesley Hill and at the Maldon Bakery."
The 10th piano can be found in a'mystery location' and there will also be aroving piano doing the rounds.
"Most of the pianos would have been destined for landfill, but Maine Piano Guerillas have given them a new life, which we hope will continue beyond the festival," Helen said.
The group is pleased to have built arelationship with Joshua and Jo McPherson from Making Melody Music in Bendigo who are assisting moving and tuning pianos. This is acall out to the community of Castlemaine to play apiano, bring your friends and make music, listen to the pop-up concerts, and book for the grand finale concert at the Coolroom at Northern Arts Hotel at events.humanitix. com/mpg-grand-finale
If you have apiano party piece or want more information, see bit.ly/pianoguerrillas or contact mainepianoguerrillas@gmail.com
Maine Guerrilla Pianos members Paul Ryan, patron Maggie Jackson, Helen Sandercoe, John Meir, and piano tuners Jo and Joshua McPherson of Making Melody Music are pictured installing the piano at the Market Building on Friday. Photo: Lisa Dennis
Marketday foracause
Expect all kinds of fun and entertainment when Macedon Fire Brigade hosts its community day fundraiser on Saturday
There will be plenty of activities for children with Wild Action Zoo at 10am. There will also be a petting zoo, fire truck races, jumping castle, art and craft, and face painting.
Agoods and service auction at 11am will include established trees, gin, local wines and more.
Attendees can also enjoy a spinning wheel, raffle, silent auction, plant sales, virtual reality, and fire fighting.
There will be fresh produce, jams, preserves, home-baked goods, muffins, hot food, cold drinks, and bacon and egg rolls.
The brigade has been running this annual fundraiser since 1968, originally selling second goods to raise funds for essential equipment and upgrades.
In 2019, the flea market fundraiser became agoods and services auction and silent auction, with arange of other attractions. Some of those loved attractions still remain.
The Macedon Fire Brigade's community day and fundraiser will be held at the corner of Victoria and Smith Streets, Macedon, on Saturday March 29 from 9.30am.
Any bakers or makers who would like to contribute to the cake stall is encouraged to contact deliver items to the Macedon Fire Station by Friday,March 28, 8pm. For information regarding cake sales phone Clytie on 0402 420 235.
"Castlemaine Town Hall wasrecently the centre of an amazing concert when the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra'sConcert Master, Yamen Saadionviolin and Simon Tedeshchi pianist, performed some of Fritz Kreisler'sbeautiful and complexmusic to an enthralled audience.
Theconcert audiencefilled the entirehall and at 360+ people it wassomething of a record forconcert attendances.
Saadi'spriceless Stradivarius violin sang with greatbeauty and also displaying incredible poweroften overshadowing the piano. Yamen Saadidisplayedincredible technical mastery of his violin and at the same time made his work seem almost effortless to theawe of
the audience.
Themusic of Kreisler is both complex, technically very demanding, finely balanced and oftentender.Most violinists arenot capable of mastering Kreisler'smusic and when anear genius is playing it is clear to all us thatwewere witnessing amusician whose calibreand polish we will notsee an equal to foravery long time, if ever Simon Tedeschi, an internationally acclaimed pianist, accompanied Saadeinabeautiful and perfect manner. Thepiano did notdominate and it also sang to theaudience.
At age25, Yamen Saade wasappointed as Concertmaster of the Vienna StateOpera
Testimonial
Violin and piano duo ‘wow’audience "
Orchestraand the Vienna Philharmonic for the 2022/23 season. Theyoungest ever in the history of the orchestra.Yamen has performed in recital and concertoatvarious festivals and prestigious venues across Europe,Asia and the US.
He maintainsa busycareer as an acclaimed soloist and Chamber musician. Hisplaying is characterised by serene lyricism, virtuosity and elegancebeyondhis yearsand has been described by Berliner Morgenpost as having “A beguiling sound”
Youcan hear his debut album Voices from Paris: Works forViolin &Piano as well as other worksonSpotifyand YouTube.
from one of our many happy advertisers 'THEATRE
ROYAL'
"We’ve seen a strong sales response for shows at the Theatre after the Mail or the Express has featured artists such as jazz musician James Morrison, country singer Adam Harvey and Spanish flamenco guitarist Paco Lara in recent months
There’s definitely a big contingent of music fans in the local area that get their entertainment information from the paper rather than online The paper has been a big part of the sales success of these shows.”
Rich - Theatre Royal.
Bringinginfinite possibilities to life Brri i innggi i inng i innfifin n ni i ite possiibbiillittiies s
What if every moment in your life had an alternate version?
What if love, heartbreak, and fate weren’t linear – but an intricate web of infinite possibilities?
This is the mind-bending, deeply moving and often amusing journey of Nick Payne’s Constellations being presented at the Castlemaine Fringe
This highly regarded two-hander is the debut show for The Black Stitch Players and is being performed by local professional actors and producers, Letitia Tseng and Harry Tseng, and directed by David Brown and Teresa Conicella
A beekeeper and a quantum physicist fall in love – not once, but in every possible way One moment, their relationship is thriving; in another, it’s crumbling, with each conversation looping and shifting in subtle and sometimes tragic ways
Constellations explores the nature of choice, time and human connection
But beyond the romance and the science, Constellations also touches on life’s most profound choices, including the right to dignity in death
As the play’s multiverse shifts and unfolds, it gently raises questions about Voluntary Assisted Dying – not as a political statement, but as a deeply personal decision shaped by love, freedom and the unpredictable paths of fate
Don't miss this thought-provoking production because, in at least one universe, you will absolutely love it
The production will take place at the Wesley Hill Hall on March 28, 29, 30 and April 4, 5, 6
Directly after each Sunday performance, health professional Catina Eyres will facilitate Q&A sessions discussing end of life and VAD She will be joined by the actors, others working in health and those with personal experience
For tickets visit www castlemainefringe org au/tickets/constellations
Local actors Letty Tseng and Harry Tseng of The Black Stitch Players will feature in Constellations Photo: Penny Ryan Photography
Storytellerstofeature at Fringe
Celebrated Castlemaine storyteller Jan‘Yarn’Wositzky and fellow thespian PennyGlass will present their latest show La Digna Rabia, Dignified Anger, Stories fora Perilous Now as part of the 2025 Castlemaine FringeFestival programatNorthern Arts Hotelfrom March27-29.
Theduo will cheekily debunk some old, worn-outstories thatgot us to these perilous times –such as ‘survival of the fittest’ and thatwehumans should ‘subjugate nature’toour will.
Then, withsuch ‘dangerous bullsh*t’ out of the way, theymoveontotell and sing alternativestories.
Theshowdebuted at the Woodford Folk Festival in 2023 and in 2024 playedacrossQueensland.
Thepair arecurrently embarking on aregional tour which includes a stopoveratCastlemaine.
Taking acue from theLatin American conceptofLaDigna Rabia –Dignified Anger, theytell of womenwho led Latin American indigenous communities to defy mines and dams on their country;the wisdom of the humble
Australian bushman Bill Harney(18951962), who returned from WWI with ahatredofwar; and the 14thcentury tale thatasks, ‘Whatdowomen desire most, above allelse’ –the answer may surprise! –and more.
These building blocks of the show areseamlessly linked withpersonal tales from Pennyand Jan, including recollections of growing up in Australian migrantfamilies and coming to terms withour Indigenous-Colonial history,and alove story
Andthere’smusic! Betweenthem, Pennyand Janplayold-time five-string banjo, quena, flute, bodhran, harmonica, bones and spoons, withoriginal music and songs from folk legends such as Chilean Victor Jara,Bob Dylan and Australian Shane Howard
Audiences have been full of praise forthe showwith Queenslander Beccy Wandell commenting,“Whata magical, mystical, uplifting afternoon. Thank you” and RobynDavidson describing it as "a very fine and heartening evening.”
Step backintime to the80s and 90s to experience thegenius of Kate Bush’s music with theKBBand.
Featuring some of her greatest hitsand highlighting some lesser-known songs, the band will treataudiences to amoving and uplifting performance.
Singer,saxophonist, trombone and sitar player, Teamo Henderson, said he knew nothing about Kate Bush's musicuntil three months ago.
"It'sbeen totalimmersion sincethen and I'veloved it completely.The lyrics aresocomplicated, so crazy,weirdand bizarre. She'sa genius."
Lead singer Catherine Koerner has been listening to Kate Bush forthe past 45 years. As an aspiring singer she had found someone she could relate to
"I first sawher on Countdown in 1978 and Iwas just like, 'wow!' she said.
"I'dbedancing around and singing to the whole album, so Iknowthatfirst album likethe back of my hand. Ithink it'll be the last thing thatIforgetifI get dementia, is TheKickInside album."
Jan ‘Yarn’ Wositzky and Penny Glass will bring their latest show to the Fringe. Photo: Clive Willman
Bass guitarist Trevor Reading believes Kate's songwriting, singing and performing stretched the boundaries of pop music.
"She really took it to,you could say, progress rock extremes."
Lead guitarist ScottSanderssaid there wasa depth and intelligenceand veracity to hermusic.
"There'sa truthfulness to it. It's honest and it'schallenging, but it's always beautifulaswell,"hesaid.
This upbeatand inspiringperformance by the KB Band will showcase at the Castlemaine FringeFestival fortwo nights only WednesdayApril 2and SaturdayApril
org.au/tickets/babooshka
@ Y YourOPINIONS
Truthinpolitical advertising long overdue
Chris Pearson, Kyneton
An interesting pamphlet labelled 'IT’S TIME for a change' has appeared in our letterbox. For astart, IT’S TIME is an indelible Labor logo for people of my age, and it revives memories of how exciting it was to have agovernment genuinely interested in improving the lives of the more disadvantaged sections of society
But this pamphlet has been produced by the National Party of Australia (in small print). One wonders what change they have in mind –it’snot specified. This is the party that had adecade of shared power yet failed to restore health to our major river systems and tackle environmental degradation, let alone support moves to reduce global warming. By refusing bipartisan support for the Voice to Parliament referendum, it guaranteed that the referendum would fail. Its NO arguments were spurious at best, and unfortunately legitimised the bullying of minorities –and we are seeing the result of this in the rise in Islamophobia and Anti-semitism, and the worsening of conditions for First Nations citizens. It fails to examine the different roles of federal and state governments. Health services and roads are the responsibilities of the state government, and for the duration of the Coalition governments, Victoria was shafted in the matter of Commonwealth funding. Where were the protests from Coalition Victorian representatives? Federal Labor looks as though it might be finally allocating afairer share of Commonwealth funding to Victoria, so we wouldn’t want to change that!
To show that "Australia is heading in the wrong direction", various statistics are listed. They are from the ABS and Crime Statistics Agency 2022- 2024 and are very general. But they are only relevant if
Local knowledge (1 point)
1. WORDSPOKEN is an eventthat’spart of which local festival?
2. Howold is the Woodend Winter Arts Festival?
3. CAM is an acronymfor which Mount Alexander venue?
4. Which bowling club claimed BallaratHighlands Bowls Region champion of champions final? (3 points)
5. Whowon the flag in the Castlemaine District CricketAssociation’s A-grade grand final?
General knowledge (1 point)
6. WhostarsasBob Dylan in the 2024 film AComplete Unknown?
7. Whereinthe world is SaintBasil’s Cathedral located?
8. Howmanywives did England’sKing Henry VIII have in his lifetime?
9. What is ahurdy-gurdy? Adance, acostume, amusical instrumentora children’s toy? (3 points)
10. WhereinAustralia is Kakadu National Park located?
examined against the statistics for 2019- 2021, so that comparisons can be made. It is very easy to abuse statistics.
Laws ensuring truth in political advertising are long overdue.
Flyinginthe face of danger
Mark Carter,Don't Fly Australia, Chewton
I’m imagining I’m at dinner with friends. One lot are recounting adventures from their last holiday in Europe and the others are describing where in the US they’ll visit later this year.Sound familiar? Been there? Then Iask “Should we be flying at all?”. The room falls silent. Igoon, “Since it’sthe most warming single thing you can do. And we’ve just passed 1.5 degrees on our way to 3.” My friends are concerned about global warming and climate change, but right now they don’t want to hear what I’m saying: that we can’t keep flying and make the climate safe.
Luckily however you and Iaren’t out to dinner You’re out of the public spotlight just reading this article I’ve written —atleast this far anyway —and you can choose to read on or not. Idon’t want to be akilljoy and tell you not to, but if you continue to fly, here’swhatyou need to know
Flying’scarbon footprint is growing 4% ayear, new flight routes, airports and runways are being approved including athird at Melbourne Airport, and Sydney is opening anew international airport next year.There’snomore jet fuel we can safely burn. Even the emissions from only one more flight to the UK would exceed the IPCC’sremaining per person aviation CO2 emissions budget with arisky 1in 3 chanceofnot preventing the climate chaos ofwarming above 2C.
Some airlines are making misleading claimsthat they are reducing their emissions sufficiently and achieving net-zero targets when it can easily beseen that they are setting goals that they cannot possibly
achieve. This “greenwashing” makes them appear more environmentally friendly than they are, falsely attracting conscientious travellers who are being “taken for aride” in more ways than one. Carbon offsetting is often claimed by someairlines tosignificantly reduce emissions by paying afew dollars more when theypurchase their airline ticket. They claim that carbon offsets paid for by passengers make their flight“carbon neutral”or even “sustainable” when this surely cannot be true. Some carbon offset schemes involve reafforestation or making acontribution to renewable energy projects. In the case of contributing to tree planting projects, it can take many years for atreetogrow large enough to become an effective “carbon sink”. In most cases where these so called “offsetting schemes” claim they are helping to reduce emissions, they are false.
Flight emissions cannot be cut by using so-called ‘Sustainable Aviation Fuels’ (SAF), even in the unlikely event they were ever able to fuel all the global fleet. Nor,ascan be seen above, can they be cut using offsets. Claimed reductions from both are carbon accounting tricks. That’sbecause, as well as urgently cutting emissions, we need to quickly draw down the existing excessive CO2 already creating climate havoc, and keep it down, not replace it with more emissions as both SAF and offsetting do.
And finally,while hitting anet zero 2050 target will not prevent warming beyond 2C, airlines are nowabandoning even that target.
So now you know why we can’t keep flying and makethe climate safe. But dare you say any of this when overseas holidays comeup at your next dinner?
PipersCreek PumaoraLancefieldLion?
Michael Kennedy, PipersCreek
At about 6.30pm last Tuesday,Iwas returning to my property from Kyneton, driving along Pipers Creek Pastoria Road just after it commences from the split with Pipers Creek Road.
Ananimal crossed the road very swiftly about 30 metres in front of me, running in acompletely level manner.Itwas not hopping or bouncing like akangaroo or wallaby and, with abody length of about 1000 cm and atail of the same length, Ibelieve it was too large to be aferal cat. Wasthis the fabled Puma (of Pipers Creek) or perhaps a(Lancefield) Lion?
There aremanyother priorities
NigelMeeks,Castlemaine
In response to Rohan Wightman ('It is apriority', Opinions, March 18).
Firstly let me express my sympathy for yourdramatic injuries incurred and hope you have had or having afullrecovery
Let me be clear that Ifully support the implementation of safe walk/ cycle paths throughout the Mount Alexander Shire (not just only in McKenzie Hill), but Idoquestion the timing of the announcements by the shire/ state and federal governments of i.e. Beautification of Frederickson Street /Mechanics Lane and the McKenzie Hill walk/cycle paths as being purely political due to the soon upcoming election. Why weren't these decisions announced six months ago? It is clearly pork barrelling!
There are many other priorities in the shire that also require attention (apart from the ones previously mentioned on the March 11 issue) such as helping the needy people who are sleeping rough, cannot afford abed and feeding themselves and their families in these expensive times. Been to the supermarkets of late?
Idoappreciate the requirement of safewalk/cycle paths in this community but these requirements should bebalanced with other shire needs.
Work done by volunteers
I. C.Castlemaine
In response tothe recent noise complaint at Camp Reserve ('Impacted by noise', Opinions, March 4).
As the writer pointed out, maintaining apublic facility takes alot of work. Most of this work is done by volunteers whokeepthe local sporting clubs afloat. Local sporting clubs also need to hire out facilities to raise funds to keep their club afloat. Local sporting clubsare inclusive, supportive of the community,teach teamwork,problem solving, create community bonds, engage youth and develop fitness, all very worthy pursuits.
Camp Reserve is actually the oldestcolonial place of settlement in Castlemaine, afocus of the township. Easy to spot while driving down Gingell Street and easy to research. Why,imagine!
On reflection, in atownwith ahousing shortage, I’d be happy to be so well offastoown ahome, let alone one so central to the town'shistory and shopping centre, railway station and sporting facilities.
Soundfamiliar?
CharlesLakey,Mount Macedon
Those who do not accept global warming, please check your house insurance costs.
Insurance companies, unlike politicians, must look to the future to cover upcoming risks. Otherwise they will cease to exist.
The science of global warming has been well understood since the mid 1980s especially by the fossil fuel companies who accurately predicted the impact of continuing to burn carbon-based fuels
The fossil fuel companies responded with adisinformation campaign along the lines of the tobacco companies i.e.
Find an 'expert' who disagrees
Say we do not yet know enough to justify change
Say it is too expensive
Say it is too hard
Say we must learn to adapt
Say we can use'carbon capture' (an expensive and ineffective fantasy)
Say we can implement nuclear energy,but notjust yet. Not until the fossil fuel companies have extracted the last dollar Does anyofthis sound familiar?
Navy veteran to lead service
Kyneton Navy veteran Luke Bordonaro will lead this year’sMount Macedon Anzac Day Dawn Service, which will take place on April 25 at the Mount Macedon Memorial Cross.
This year’stheme, ‘The Unseen Wounds of Conflict’, will explore the many impacts that war has on those who serve, from the physical injuries to the mental effects and the wider repercussions for families.
Luke, who joined the Royal Australian Navy in 2003 and served on HMAS Newcastle, Cerberus, Maitland, Ararat, Sydney IV and Hobart III attaining the rank of Petty Officer, said this year’stheme was particularly close to his heart and he was honoured to be involved in the 2025 service.
“The unseen wounds of conflict and service can leave lasting scars on aveteran’smind and soul, often resulting in struggles that extend far beyond the deployments,” said Luke, afather of two.
“Personally,the ability to regulate my acute stress response —once essential for survival in my role —became a challenge in everyday life; leading to hypervigilance, anxiety and difficulty in high-stress situations. Additionally,adapting to civilian life presented its own battles, as the structure, camaraderie and purpose found in service was hard to replicate.”
As part of the service, students from local high schools will read excerpts from the accounts of local veterans: Dr Francis Donovan OAM from Woodend, the late Colonel John Charles Barrie (known to most as Charlie), formerly from Kyneton, and James Gardiner Daniel whose parents resided in Kyneton.
The service begins at 6am at the Mount Macedon Memorial Cross and runs for about an hour.Free shuttle buses run from Tony Clarke Reserve in Macedon from 4.15am as roads to the Cross are shut to public traffic for the morning for the safety of attendees.
Plenty of parking is available at Tony Clarke Reserve and free bus services will also run from Gisborne, Woodend, Sunbury,Kyneton, Riddells Creek, Lancefield and Romsey The timetables for the town buses will be available at www mtmacedondawnservice.org along with details of how to book.
Attendees are encouraged to dress for the weather and bring awater bottle and torch. Asausage sizzle will be available and agold coin donation would be appreciated.
Gastronomy festival in plans
As Australia’sfirst UNESCO Creative City and Region of Gastronomy,the City of Greater Bendigo wants to establish a nationally recognised gastronomy festival to begin in 2026.
The council'smanager of economy and experience, James Myatt, said the city was seeking an experienced event organiser to plan and deliver aquality event.
"A major gastronomy festival would be agreat way to celebrate and embrace our UNESCO designation with the local community and visitors to our region," Mr Myatt said.
“Within the Bendigo region, there are more than 100 producers, more than 60 cellar doors from the Bendigo and Heathcote wine regions, and over six craft breweries.
“Although the gastronomy festival will be held in the Greater Bendigo region, the aim is for the festival toacknowledge and potentially involve producers across the broader region of gastronomy which covers the shires of Loddon, Campaspe, Mount Alexander,Macedon Ranges, Hepburn, Gannawarra, Buloke and Central Goldfields.
All applicants must register and submit their proposal throughthe council’sVendor Panel marketplace by April 7.
For full details, and to apply, visit the Bendigo Tourism website: bendigotourism.partners/gastronomyfestivaleoi
Navy veteran Luke Bordonaro with his son Leonardo.
Joel working out what went wrong with this batch of compost
The Compost Conversation
Iwas putting afinished compost pile outonthe garden recently,but as Iwas forking it into the barrow,I realised,with disappointment, it wasthe worstcompost Ihad made in quitea fewyears!
The‘finished’ compost wasdry,woody and full of fine root filaments, notthe rich, moist, greasy, ‘humic’goodness Iam used to producing. So,whatwentwrong?
It didn’t take toomuch digging to work out at least four thing that had led to this being such abad batch of compost,and each of them arethings Ihavewritten about in this column.
Thefirst mistake wastoo muchwood chip in my recipe; Ihad been experimenting with wood chips and had leaned too heavily on this carbon-rich, lignin-heavy ingredient. In moderation wood chips aregreat,say about fiveper cent of the compost volume,but Ihad probably used double this or more, leaving the finished compost with waytoo muchunintegrated wood chip.
Thesecond mistakewas acommon summer one, letting curing piles dry out toomuch. With lots of sun, lots of wind andhot dry conditions(all of which we have hadanabundanceof) composts can dry over severalweeks. Although I had wateredthe pile, itsimply wasnot enough to compensate forthe evaporation from the pile in our long, dry summer
Just checking the moistureatthe centre of acompost pile can be deceptive, as this part will hold good moisture longest, don’t forget to checkmoistureat the sides and halfway between too. In dry weather agood water every fewweeks is
recommended.
Thethird problem wasthatplantroots had found the compost pile and were mining it formoistureand nutrients. The further Idug into the pile the moreof these fine root filaments Ifound, and the dryer and moredepletedthe compost appeared.
Some big trees will strip acompost completely bare, in my case it wasperennial plants around thecompost, so notas bad, but still adepletion of the nutrient and moisture in the compost
Thefourth mistake wasleaving the compost toolong.Thispile would have been readyatleast amonth earlier,but summer gardening and other responsibilities being whattheyare,I had notgot to it and left it longer than wasideal.
This longer wait time also exacerbated the drying out, as well as the damageto rootsdid to thecompost as well.
This batchofcompost wasnot really good enough to put on theveggiegarden, but wasokayfor underfruittrees and berry canes, so it didn’t go to waste, still, it wasnot as good as it could have been, and Ilearned (orre-learned) afew good lessons along the way.
Thereare detailed articles on each of these issues (wood chips, moisture monitoring, tree rootsand finishing/curing) on the YIMBYwebsite.
–Joel Meadowsworks with *Yes In My Back Yard,(YIMBY), acommunity-scale composting initiativein Castlemaine and surrounds. Send questions or comments to hello@yimbycompost.com, or to book infor acompost workshop.
Getyour daffodil bulbs
The Kyneton Daffodil and Arts Festival has been supplying Kyneton with daffodil bulbs for more than 50 years, at the Rotary Market and in front of Woolworths each March and April.
This year you can also purchase them online and pick them up seven days a week from The Old Auction House on Mollison Street, making it easier for those with busy schedules.
Bulb sales are the main fundraiser for the 10-day festival in September each year With the festival growing and adapting to the population each year,itisa highlight of the Kyneton calendar!
The committee has chosen 25 varieties, many of which are hard to find elsewhere, including early,mid and late flowering varieties in alarge selection of colours. They are easy to plant and are best planted by Easter but can be planted as late as the end of autumn for first-year flowering.
They come in packs of 10 and are competitively priced at $10-$24 apack depending on
www.kynetondaffodilandartsfestival.com.au
to May 3, 8.30am
Gisborne Bulldogs BULLDOGS
MEN’SFOOTBALL
Premiership coach Rob Waters continuestolead an experienced coaching group including assistant coach Dallas Normington, Shaun Cassidy and Jarrad Lynch. Reserves coach Jeremy Penefather is also continuing on from last year,inwhich his side made the grand final, while Jordy Ryan steps up to the coaching role for the U18s. (Jordy was U18 assistance coach in 2023 when the U18s made the grand final). TimM rounds out the coaching team as strength and conditioning coach.
New arrivals to the playing group at Gardiner Reserve include TomWerner (ex Gisborne U18s) who comes from Sunbury and will play inside and outside midfield. Luke Melitis joins the club from Hillside and will be abig body inside and outside midfielder,and ahost of young talent is coming through in James Gray,Darcy Young and Kane Minns. Shane Clough is at Essendon VFL this season and look forward to seeing him play with GFNC again this year Jack Rutten is training with the Calder Cannons U18 Boys
WOMEN’SFOOTBALL
with the Kyneton Women’sFootball Club to form ahybridteam to Essendon District Football League. Details, page 33.
NETBALL
Rymer brings awealth of experience to the role (2023/2024 A coach/ 2024 assistant coach of the 23/Under team for VNL club Strikers/coaching BFNL Open team atassociation netball champs in 2024 and rryn will also coach AReserve alongside Claudia Mawson (A Grade 2024 Vixens Reserves Squad player). Rylee Connell will coach BGrade, Shelley Farrugia BReserve and Zoe Davies Under 17s.
This season, Gisborne’sfocus across all grades is developing consistency,building strong connections across the court, and maintaining ahigh level of intensity for four quarters.
The coaches are also placing abig emphasis on fitness, defensive pressure, and refining attacking structures across teams to ensure they’re competitive in every game. Gisborne’snetballers are still avery young playing group across all grades, which leaves room for growth and improvement. Gisborne has welcomed young Emily Milesfrom Romsey and experienced player, Sheridan Townrow,from Echuca, who has recently moved to Melbourne.
Players who are also playing VNLinclude Zoe Davies (Bendigo Strikers vice captain); Charlee Kemp, Kirby Elliott and Claudia Mawson (MU Lightning) and Dasha Taylor (Western Warriors 23/U).
Zoe Davies has been named in the Melbourne Mavericks Reserves squad. Claudia Mawson has been namedinthe Melbourne Vixens Reserves Squad.Overall, Gisborne is aiming for astrong, cohesive season where they continue to grow as aplaying group and aim for success both on and offthe court.
Photos: Paul Rovere and RubyWatts
Castlemaine Magpies es MAGPIES
FOOTBALL
Second-year coach Michael Hartley will be hoping the improvements continue this year,with abig effort required to break the longstanding finals drought for his team. Astrong offseason has resulted in high anticipation for the first game to witness new recruits in Josh Eyre (Collingwood/Essendon) Patrik Balta (Richmond VFL) Jake Stein (Gold Coats/GWS) Coby Perry (Maryborough/Nth Ballarat VFL) Ronnie Fejo (VFL), Will Marks, Rhys Smith and the returning Hunter Staples. The under 18s came along in leaps and bounds last year,progressing to the second week of finals. They will be looking to improve on this in season 2025 with excellent numbers of juniors coming through and some new faces under the guidance of second-year coach Bailey Henderson.
NETBALL
sides will be looking to improve this year and are in great the guidance ofnewly appointed and experienced coach Saunders. The senior sides will be looking to improve and unior players will benefit from getting ayearofvaluable under their belts last season. The likes of Sarah and McLean, Olivia Henderson, Maddi Clifford, Amelia Britt and Maddern and will beaiding the junior teamsinthe under 15 squad and under 17 juniors.
WOMEN’SFOOTBALL
The women footballers will be aiming to continue their winning ways, and make it four premierships in arow.Coach Jordan Cochrane has been able to cover the progression of players with strong juniors coming through. The like of Amelia Britt, Olivia Muscat and Chloe Butcher will be ably supported by some excellent recruits in Brianna Burt, Eloise Gretgrix, Tupper and Bertram.
JUNIORS
Junior football will be running its AusKick program at the Wesley Hill Complex, complementing junior
boys’ and girls’
Kyneton Tigers TIGERS
FOOTBALL
Ethan Foreman will continue as playing coach for the Tigers, assisted by Stu Rankin. New recruits will add experience and depth to the senior lineup this year.These include midfielder Danny Grmusa (from Werribee districts), mid-forward Isaac Barassi (from Doncaster), wingman Christian Adorno (from Point Cook) and small forward Ryan Jerara (also from Point Cook).
Director of football at KFNC, Ryan Pretty,expects the Tigers to be more competitive than last season.
“We’re just excited for the season to start and are pretty bullish of our chances this year Pretty said.
“Wehad alot of injuries last year but we’ve recovered from those and we’re looking forward to get the football started in all the grades.”
250G
Player,coach an Turner is playing Kyneton on Anzac hopes supporters cheer her on.
KFNC welcomes both experienced and new players, stepping into seniors for the first time or returning to the court since having kids. The club’snetball department is proud of is its inclusiveness of people from all walks of life and fostering acaring community that caters for all.
NETBALL
Kyneton’sfocus in 2025 is on giving back and growing its netball community.This year the Tigers return to having five senior netball teams (A-D grades) and four junior netball teams (U11-U17). The juniors are predominantly coached by senior players, which helps to grow the connection between junior and senior teams.
Head coach David O’Hare is keen to build on newand existing player relationships, nail the basics and develop the local talent. With afew new recruits andreturning players, A and Bgrade teams are looking fantastic.
New recruits include Maddy Kirk –a NSWPremier League defensive midcourt player and current VNL squad member for Melbourne University Lightning.
Matilda Candy also joins the Tigers as ahandy goaler who is stepping up into Agrade after playing for Upwey-Tecoma. Returning locals include Tilly Shepherd –playing her 50thgame this year.The league B&F winner returns for another year at KFNC. An incredibly smart defender and honorary local! Michelle Fletcher,Lauren Anglin and Kristy Viete all return to the club, bringing with them more than 300 club games’ experience. The current playing group has collectively played 2545 games for Kyneton FNC, revealing aloyalty to afamily centred country club.
RiddellBombers BOMBERS
Riddell has retained premiership coach Aaron ‘Skip’ Bray as senior coach and Nick May to coach reserves, while newcomer Paul Murden will coach the under 19.5s.
The Bombers have lost two senior premiership players with Jesse Horton crossing to Strathmore in the EDFL and Trent Stead retiring, but have recruited midfielder Lachlan Hay from Macedon, and halfback midfielder Ben Borg from Rupertswood. The Bombers are hoping to play finals again this year in avery even competition and are also hoping to promote afew under 19s players to give them some senior match experience.
WOMEN’SFOOTBALL
TheBombers are fielding awomen’sfootball team for the first time this year under coach Rob Bretherton.
The side is made upoflocal girls and all new players, some of whom haven’t played before. The coaching team will be focusing on building skills and fitness for asustainable future.
has good numbers in all five grades
strong coaching lineup. The Agrade squad
secured gun shooter Bec Colwell back to
and ready to hit the courts in round one.
TIGERS
MEN’SFOOTBALL
Achange at the top this season sees former Lancefield premiership player
Ryan O’Meara taking on the role of senior men’scoach. ‘Woz’ will be supported by Andrew McTrusty (senior assistant), Cal Randall (Reserves) and Jason Tully (Under 19s).
Abig offseasonhas seen anumber of talented footballers call Lancefield Park home this season. Afew of note include Noah Smallacombe (Doutta Stars), TomJackson (Tullamarine) and Zach O’Halloran (Werribee Centrals). Reigning Best and Fairest Riley O’Meara will return as captain and will be supported in the leadership role by Adam Miles, Leroy Ristevski and James Falcone.
WOMEN’SFOOTBALL
The Women’sFootball program enters its second year with last year’sassistant coach, Cash Ferguson, stepping up to the head coach role. Ahost of new players join the girls from last year with strong numbers and agreat atmosphere continuing to build around the Lancefield women’steam. The girls will be led by first-time captain Kirsty Albert. Kirsty will have Maddison Coates-Cowley serving as vice-captain again as well as Emily O’Brien.
NETBALL
This season Lancefield is fielding five netball teams with the addition of aDGrade team. The club has had aremarkable retention rate from season 2024 providing stability within each team but also the opportunity to add some key players to each. The addition of Renee Sari to the shooting end for BGrade enables Tarnee Hammond to move to A Grade. Chloe Hodgson has taken abreak fromher football career and has returned to the AGrade side, along with Tyla Evan who is returning to netball after ashort break.
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REDBACKS
Lancefield Tigers Romsey Redbacks
MEN’SFOOTBALL
The Redbacks’ focus for season 2025 is to concentrate on building up the local talent within their ranks.
Club president Eden Jedwab said last year’ssenior captain Nathan Blair had been appointed the new seniors coach and would bring enthusiasm and energy to the role.
New key position players, Jo Stapleton from Lavington in the Ovens and Murray Football Netball League and Callum Lever from Sunbury Lions, will add some experience to the young list.
FOOTBALL&NETBALLCountry
Charlie Jedwab and Marcus Tucker are back for 2025. Both these young men born and bred Romsey boys, with no shortage of talent among them.
Jack Jedwab also returns from playing VFL to play full-time at Romsey
WOMEN’SFOOTBALL
Matt Brundell is the new women’sfootball coach, assisted by Nicole Stewart. The Redbacks are yet to win amatch in their two seasons of having awomen’sside so these coaches will also focus on building up skills and ball movement and leading the team to its first wins.
NETBALL
Justin Philby is the new Aand BGrade netball coach and Cayley Blair is the new CGrade coach. They will look to build on last year’ssuccess, with all grades having played finals except A Grade.
Maddison Thompson was anew Redback for season 2024 and will move up from BGrade to join the AGrade squad this season. Taking out the club’sLeading Goal Shooter award at a huge 591 goals (notincluding finals) the Redbacks can’t wait to see what she will achieve in 2025. Star shooter Emma Grech also returns to the lineup.
Men’s senior football leadership group (L:R) Adam Miles, Riley O’Meara (C), James Falcone, Leroy Ristevski.
Lancefield’s netball squad at pre-season camp.
Macedon Cats
Recruits:
Tall ruck and goal kicker
Charlie Rossetti crosses to the MFNC from Montrose in the Eastern FNL. Blake Watson (ex Sunbury Lions) is avery skilled outside midfielder with adynamic kick.
Head coach Alistair Meldrum is again at the helm in the second season of his three-year term.
After a2024 preliminary final appearance the Cats are hoping to improve on that performance in 2025. Joining the coaching group is Chris Nemeth taking the reins as reserves coach and senior assistant. Chris comes to Ontime Oval fresh offa premiership with Riddell FNC as their senior assistant coach. TomHildebrand takes over as under 19 coach after two seasons as Jason Cooke’sassistant.
Charlie Ozanne returns to Ontime Oval after aseason with Gisborne.
Returning:
Bridie Kinghorne crosses to the Cats from Kyneton FNC.
Ruby Watts–Tear away winner in the senior women’s best and fairest in 2024.
Hamish Govan –‘Hammer’ will take on the captaincy this season afierce competitor he will lead by example, avery respected footballer in the RDFNL.
Toby Sims –After missing some footy with aknee injury last season, ‘Simsy’ is fit and firing on all cylinders. Toby will be vice-captain in 2025.
senior women will have co-coaches in Chris
‘Doona’ Nolan and Bevan Uren, both with sound coaching backgrounds and with big fill following Damian emarkable previous two seasons.
Cats hope to see all four senior footy teams take part in the finals and progress asfar as possible.
MACEDON HAWKS
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Woodend-Heskett Hawks
FOOTBALL
The Hawks are excited to have their under19s back up and running in 2025 and have strong numbers but there is still the opportunity for more players to get involved.
Former premiership coach Dennis Barker co-coaches the under-19s with winning under-15s coach Rob Ferguson.
Alistair Rae returns as senior football coach and has overseen astrong preseason adding some quality recruits to agood senior side that performed well in 2024.
Among the new recruits for the seniors are midfielder Brendan Butler and defender Luke Butcher who both cross over from Strathmore.
The club hopes to return to the finals in the senior competition in 2025.
NETBALL
Thenetball division will work to emulate the successful 2024 season where all five teams made finals.
Ty Coppinger returns to lead A-grade to attempt to win three A-grade titles in arow,along with coaching the B-grade team that had agreat finish to the season to make finals.
Lia McQualter andBrenda McDonald Lead the Cand D grade teams, while Kellie Duffis again coaching the under 19s.
The Hawks have agreat mix of players returning across all grades along with some new to players to freshen the squads.
Recruits for Agrade include local young guns, Charlee Duff-Tytler (goaler), Sarah Duff (mid court) and Jessica Martin (defence) will be ones to watch with coach Ty Coppinger combining with Georgia Bowkett and Hayley Rogers to form aformidable defensive team for the third year in arow.Hawks 2024 premiership captain Laura Carland will lead the attacking end combining with Sarah in the mid court and supporting newcomer Kaia Giles and Charlee in goals. Youngster Jess Martin joins the Agrade squad this year after her breakout year in 2024 winning the Bgrade best and fairest award and Kaia Giles comes across from the Drysdale FNC providing both size and versatility in the goal circle.
Gisborne Giants GIANTS
FOOTBALL
The senior men’sfootball program is being led by coach Andrew Hall. Andrew’s experience includes time with AFL clubs Richmond, Collingwood and Port Adelaide coupled with local experience in the EDFL Premier Division with Strathmore, Calder Cannons and Sunbury Lions. Andrew is support by football director Aaron Mclean who has 10 years’ experience in club and league management including roles with VFL Teams Coburg and Werribee.
The senior football team will be led by inaugural senior football captain Brad Mangan. Originally from Kyabram, Brad was drafted to North Melbourne in 2012 before continuing his career at VFL and SANFL level including aVFL premiership in 2015. Matt Quigley will also form part of the leadership group having excelled through the Calder Cannons pathway program before time in the VFL with Werribee and Southport. Other key signings for season 2025 include anumber of members of the 2024 under 19.5 premiership team including TomDoyle. Having captained the under 19.5 premiership team last year and won the RDNFL best and fairest, Tomissure to have an impact at senior level this season.
NETBALL
The netball program is being headed by head coach Adrian (AJ) Craske who has mmore than 10 years of netball coaching and management experience. AJ was instrumental in the establishment of the Caroline Springs Lakers program within the WRFL and has held coaching positions within the Parkville Open Assoc Championships Finals Day and the Elmer Opens state title 2024 winners. AJ was also an integral member of the Strathmore Netball Club coaching both underage and open age teams.
Key recruits on the court include Emma Winfield who is atalented VNL known for her goaling accuracy and midcourt skills. Emma brings awealth of experience and versatility to the team having represented MU Lightning, Victoria and Australia. Other signings include Jacqui Mitrevski akey defender who was involved with the Elmer Region team that won the 2024 state title and Emma Vitalone with AGrade experience in the Ballarat Football Netball League and Western Football Netball League.
Round 1for the Gisborne Giants will be against Kyneton on April 5atthe Macedon Ranges Sports Precinct and the Giants urge all locals to get behind the new team.
Season 2025 is shaping up as the biggest yet for the Gisborne Giants. Having fielded teams in the under 19.5 football and Dgrade netball competitions within the RDFNL in 2024, 2025 will be the Giants’ inaugural year with afull compliment of senior teams in both netball and football competitions. Building on last year’ssuccess, which saw premierships in both the under 19.5 football and Dgrade netball, both the netball and football teams have continued to grow with great numbers attending arigorous pre-season.
Mt AlexanderFalcons FALCONS
Entering their third season, the Mt Alexander Falcons are faster,s and fitter than ever
Returning head coach Louise ‘Cheez’ Ainscough has been preparing the squad for another tilt at the RDFNL senior women’s comp with her trademark mix of tactical nous, supportive leadership and paint-covered footy shorts. Any fine cheese (or Cheez) should be paired with something special to really create magic: think champagne with brie or the glorious union of processed cheese and pickles. For the Falcs’ pre-season, Cheez was paired with strength and conditioning maestro Steph Silvagni. Steph has been subjecting the squad to weights, squats and pain, with the plan to reduce injuries and help players be stronger over the ball.
On the field, the Falcons soar into 2025 with the bulk of their 2024 returning, including the people’schamp, the Honiara Hero, the Solomon Islands’ own goal sneak –Mary K! Word on the street is Mary has doing extra work on her goal celebrations, so expect arepertoire that include cartwheels, finger guns and the worm. The Falcons’ recruiting department has been busier than rennet in acheese factory,bringing astellar crop of new talent: Libby,Sashi, Ruby,Georgia, Carys, Nicole, Tessa, Eloise, Peta, Hayley and Sissy have all joined the ranks, showing mix of speed, skill and enthusiasm that has already set tongues wagging training.
The Falcons’ junior program will ramp up in 2025 with Auskick (5-7yrs) returning alongside Superkick (7-12yrs) and an under 14s girls team in the RDFNL fledgling junior girls comp. If you or your kid are interested, you’ll find more information on the website: www.mtalexanderfalcons.com.au
All of this would not be possible without the sponsors who not only support agreat team, but athriving community.Their sponsorship provides participation opportunities for people of all different skill levels and ages promoting health and wellbeing in the community
The businesses that sponsor the Falcons stand alongside the club as advocates for action on avariety of important issues including gender equity in sport, ending gender-based violence and stamping out racial discrimination.
If you want to join the club as aplayer,volunteer,supporter or sponsor,get in touch: football@mtalexanderfalcons.com.au
FOOTBALL
TheSaints have been working hard in the preseason at all levels.
The first game of the home and away season offers achance atredemption for the senior footballers’ grand final loss, when they kickoff their season away at Natte Bealiba onApril 5.
New coachMark Adamson is taking the helm as senior football coach. Mark has extensive senior coaching experience, having previously coached at clubs including Kyabram, GoldenSquare, Kyneton and, most recently,at Stanhope. Mark will be assisted by senior assistant coaches, including former AFL and Bendigo League player,TravisBaird, Mark Strickland and Jack Elkington.
Trentham Saints MaldonBombers
This year’ssenior captain is Joel Dovaston, with AlFerrier his deputy Chris ‘Chooka’ Whelan will again take on the reserves reins, while Tom‘Wombat’ Boyer will coach the U17.5s team this season, assisted by Al Ferrier.The club is still in need of afew numbers, so anybody interested can contact Wombat or new president Nick Shearer
There have been some changes to the playing list, with several new recruits including Stanhope pair, Joey Nesci and RhysSmith, Travis Baird, along with anumber of players returning to the club.
NETBALL
Briarley Delaney is coaching the AGrade netball, Kasey Evans the BGrade and Jalna Holmes will take charge of the CGradenetballers. JessWalker is coaching the club’sU17s side and Georgia Harvey the U15s, while Emma Whelan and young ‘superstar’ Stevie Courtney will jointly coach the U13s and U11s.
New recruits Kasey Button from South Bendigo and Carly Elderfield from Hepburn have seamlessly integrated into the team and promise to be fantastic additions to the netball program. Jess Walker,the MCDNFL 2023 medal winner,is rejoining the Saints after her maternity leave and now fully recovered from her injury
Maldon is gearing up for another successful season in 2025 after having several finals contenders in 2024 with the Under 17.5s footballers claiming back-toback premierships and the Under 17 netballers also victorious.
The Dons have a new senior coach in Damian Wust. Wust led the young Maldon side from the front in 2024 winning the MCDFNL’sBerry Powell Medal for Best and Fairest. Wust will be ably assisted by Brian Kelly and Justin Trevan.
New recruits include midfielder Ash Humphries (Maryborough), forward Nate McLaren (Boort), key defender Ash Davies, and returning players Bryce Coffey,Ash Woodman, and Dave Wilson.
The Reserves will be led by club champion Steve Webb, the 17.5s will be coached by Cal Buchanan and Matthew Gray and will be looking for the treble.
NETBALL
MFNC stalwart Bec Buchanan will lead Aand Bgrade sides. Zoe Brown heads up Cgrade, and Emma Webb will step into the role of senior squad assistant.
The Under 17 and 15sare once again being very capably led by superb coach Kim Williams who will be aiming to take the Under 17s to back-to-back flags.
The Under 13s will be headed up byLou Clarke and11s by TayahDoyle.
Senior coach Bec Buchanan said they were excited for the 2025 season with aclear focus on buildingculture and having fun being the cornerstone for the year
The club will kick off2025 with aGood Friday match against Talbot on April 18.
Elkington
(assistant coach), Mark Adamson (senior coach) and Mark Strickland (assistant coach)
Netball coaches –(LtoR)Briarley
Newstead Kangaroos KANGAROOS
Newstead Football Netball Club is gearing up for an exciting 2025season, having welcomed new senior coaches Don Moran (football) and Laura Johnston (netball) to the club. Their experience and leadership will be invaluable as the Steaders continue to grow and strengthen their teams.
The club also welcomes new president, Madison James, who brings passion and dedication to leading the Steaders into the future.
This season sees an influx of new recruits across all senior netball grades and senior football, adding fresh talent and depth to the teams.
Geordie McMurtrie comes to the Pouch from Longwood as aversatile player who can be used at either end of the ground. With sharp footy IQ, precision passing and the ability to lock down as atagger,he’sset to make abig impact. Geordie was Best and Fairest winner for Longwood in 2022.
The Steaders also welcome Bailey McMurtrie from Longwood. Autility player who likes to go forward to kick goals, Bailey offers great skills and is aclean user of the ball.
Ethan Maltby joins Newstead from Castlemaine, bringing his strength and versatility to the team. Astrong inside midfielder,Ethan dominates the contest and can also make an impact up forward or down back when needed.
Ben Moran is another talented new recruit from Castlemaine. Aa strong lead-up forward known for his pinpoint accuracy in front of goal, Ben’ssize and agility will be agame-changer,giving the side abig target down forward.
Also joining the Roos from Castlemaine is Ethan Heine, who made his senior debut in 2023 and earned awell-deserved Rising Star nomination. Known for his speed, clean hands and slick skills, Ethan thrives on the wing, half-back, or high half-forward. His precision with the ball means he never wastes adisposal.
Astrong coaching group leads the way,with Tom, Mitch, Chantelle, Tenille, Keely, Shae and Steve joining Don and Laura to guide teams towards success. Their commitment, knowledge and support will be instrumental in developing both the senior and junior players.
Aspecial highlight for 2025 is the long-awaited return of the U14.5 football team, a project that has taken apower of work behind the scenes. The club thanks Mitch Williams for his efforts in making this areality and encourages any players keen to be part of this team to join them for training on Thursdays at 4.30pm.
“Weremain deeply committed to our club community,junior development program, and celebrating success—and we certainly have plenty to celebrate!” Madison said.
“Congratulations to our back-to-back U11netball premiers and their dedicated coach, Chantelle Ramsey.Their achievement is atestament to the strength of our junior program and the bright future ahead.
“With strong leadership, new talent and acommitment to success both on and offthe field, 2025 is shaping up to be afantastic season. Let’smake it one to remember!”
Country
FOOTBALL
Harcourt’ssenior and reserves football department has been putting in a mammoth amount of work since the end of the 2024 season. This preseason, the Lions have astrong presence of experienced players but it has been the younger talent that has been stepping up and driving the standards. The reserves are striving to defend their premiership title and have been looking strong and dedicated on the track.
The club has added depth this year that will allow it to be competitive in both grades.
Recruits include Billy Quirk (Sale City FNC), Tomas Stefaniw (returning), Sean Moss (Campbells Creek FNC/returning) Florent Bessoud-Cavillot (France Rugby), Jack Threlfall (Golden Square FNC), Sam Kennedy (Dunnstown FNC), Taylar McKnight, Joel Burns (Maiden Gully YCW FNC), Scott Berry (returning), Thomas Pollock (West Brunswick Amateur FC) Geoffrey Jolly,Koby Gibson (Macorna FNC), Lachlan Dillon, Matthew Spinks, Norm Jenkins (returning), TomMartin.
NETBALL
The Lions look to improve on all results from last year,and continue the build to the top.
Pre-season has been strong, developing connections and strategies to bring a strong Round 1.
The squad has alot of young developing talent, and adding experienced players will ensure agreat season.
Madi Selwood will join Jess Chaplin as Ccrade coach, withJess continuing to coach Aand Bgrade.
The club is still looking for U15 and U17 players. Contact junior coordinator Jo Lawrence on 0412 839 124.
LIONS MAGPIES
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Harcourt Lions CampbellsCreekMagpies
The Creekers are excited to welcome back senior football coach Matt Manning and new Agrade netball coach Jemma Finning, both of whom have extensive knowledge, experience and skills in their fields.“Our 2025 goals will be to keep being competitive, ticking the small stuffoff,and bringing home afew wins on the scoreboard this season,” Matt said.
“Wewill remain positive as awhole club, and keep building on our strong culture, which continues to grow.”
Matt and his assistant coach, Dylan Stevens, are excited to welcome newcomers Mitch Milne, Billie Dunne, Matt Cox and Mitch and Thomas Langley.The coaches are also happy to have Lach Hylandand Harley Melrosereturning this year,contributing to avery strong playing group.
Campbells Creek FNC welcomes Ben Tombsasthe new reserves coach for this year.Ben became involved with the club acouple of years ago and quickly built astrong rapport with the players, leading him to eagerly accept this coaching opportunity.Hewill be joined by assistant coach Jordan Picken, who has been abeloved and dedicated member of the Creeker community for many years.
Netball coaches were thrilled to have so many attend the recent netball tryouts and practise matches. Jemma, along with
Elouise Jones and Lekeisha Roser (B grade coaches) and Tarni Williams and Molly Kennedy (C grade coaches) are excited to see all these fabulous players in action.
“Our pre-season has been agreat confidence booster,playing well together and getting a few wins as we head into the upcoming home and away games,” Jemma said.
“Our 2025 goal will be to get afew wins on the board, keep building confidence, and become aclose and strongteam.”
Gisborne-KynetonUnited UNITED
Coaches Bernie Marantelli and Phil Hawkes will jointly lead Gisborne-Kyneton United in the Essendon District Football League, both bringing extensive coaching experience across multiple sports.
Bernie has an impressive sporting history,beginning her football career in 1983. Her accolades include playing in nine premierships, earning two league best and fairest awards, and coaching Strathmore Senior Women’sDiv 1EDFL team to apremiership in 2022. She also had asuccessful running career,winning many races in Stawell.
Phil, who comes with extensive coaching experience, has been involved in women’sfootball for decades, coaching numerous teams to premierships across both women’sand men’sclubs, and has been heavily involved in state volleyball as both aplayer and coach.
The Gisborne-Kyneton United team will begin their EDFL campaign 2025 with an exciting roster of players from both clubs. Notable include star midfielder Kat Bau from Woodend-Hesket FNC, Kyneton Best and Fairest winners Belinda Hateley and Teagan Ainslie, and talented Shannon McFerran, who continues with Gisborne FNC. adecorated player who has represented Victoria 12 times and was named in the top 100 sportswomen in Australia. There will be no of talent and experience as the two playing groups join forces for season.
CoatesTalent League signings: Holly Vescovi, Lily Skehan, Chloe Gemma Ellis are training with the Calder Cannons U18 Girls Squad. Melia Hayes will also be training with the Bendigo Pioneers this Fans and community members are encouraged to get behind the as they embark on this historic season. Gisborne-Kyneton United sponsors and community partnerships to support their team as they work to develop and grow women’sfootball in the region.
Thispicturesque 6.5acrepropertyoffersstunning views of theCampaspe River, historic Redesdale Bridge andsweeping landscapes. Featuringa wide verandah,viewing deck,renovated countrystyle kitchen andspacious living areas. With valuable waterrights(2megalitres) theorchard andmature gardensthrive. Infrastructure includes2large sheds,one withakitchenette Locatedjustminutes fromRedesdale and20minutes from Heathcoteand Kyneton.
4Shilney Court, CampbellsCreek
Potential-Packed Opportunity on theFringe of Castlemaine
$600,000
4Shilney Court,CampbellsCreek,offersanexciting opportunity to elevate afive-year-old home withsimplecosmetic updates. With four bedrooms, two bathroomsand an open-plan living area,the structure is soundand ready for your personal touch. Transformwith trendy paint, newwindowfurnishings and modern carpets to make this home shine. The generous823sqmblock and peaceful cul-de-sac locationadd furtherappeal.
Ready to take the plunge?
Overflowingwithluxuryand style, this stunninghomeoffersspaciousliving, a showstopperkitchen andadeluxeheated, self-cleaningpool surroundedby Travertine tiles. With aprivate master suite, flexible living spacesand an easyflowingsplit-level design, it’s perfectfor relaxationand entertaining.Add in a low-maintenancegarden, secure garageand proximitytoCastlemaine –your search ends here!
6/15 Ferguson Street, Kyneton
Saturday 12.15pm -12.45pm EPR: $740,000 -$780,000
219 Fiddlers GreenRoad, Kyneton
EPR: $1,675,000 -$1,795,000
Locatedinthe heartofKyneton,discoverthisstylish,low-maintenance townhouse perfectfor modern living.Withdoubleglazing,highceilings,and deluxe bathrooms, it features aspaciouskitchen,dining, andliving area opening onto aprivate courtyard. Twolarge bedrooms, astudy,ductedheating/ cooling, andanintegrated garagecompletethisconvenient, easy-care home
Columbia -Charmed Living in theHeart of Kyneton 32 1225 sqm
140 Fiddlers GreenRoad, Kyneton
Saturday 1.00pm -1.45pm
$2,700,000 -$2,950,000
Abbeyville C.1856 52 24 ha (10 acres approx.)
Constructedfor CharlesYoung, aformer Shire President andMemberofParliament,“Abbeyville comprises arestored‘Colonial Georgian’farmhouse,set amongst mature European trees and hedges,private gardens andheritageoutbuildings on 4hectares(10 acresapprox.). Historic “Abbeyville”isnot merely aproperty. It is oneofthe earliest houses in theKyneton area andaliving testament to ourhistory. It hasonly hadfiveownersin168 yearsand waslastonthe market in 1990 It provides an opportunitytobecome acustodian of apiece of Australia’sarchitectural legacy.Be romanced by this captivating ruralresidence, privategardenand equestrian facilities,only 5minutes fromKyneton andnestled in an exclusiveenclave of bluestoneacreage properties
Grand Family Living on Stunning Surrounds 52 31.54ha Open Saturday 1.15pm -1.45pm
Agrand sense of arrivalawaitsasyou enterthispicturesque 1.54-hectare (approx. 3.8-acre)property, where atree-lined driveway leadstoanexquisite ranch-styleresidence. Thoughtfullydesigned, thehomeoffersaflexiblefloor plan featuringfivewell-appointedbedrooms. The heartofthe home is an openplan kitchen, dining,and living space that seamlessly extendstoawraparound verandah -anidyllicsetting forentertainingwhiletakinginthe serene vistasof theCampaspeRiver
120 McAlpine Road, Taradale
EPR: $580,000 -$620,000 RobertBroadhurst0488 300 900 |JoanneDouglas 0402 044 780 |Sue Wilson 0418 387295 Rachel Potter 0400 455 777 |LizzyBloomfield
Entrylevel buyerswill love this off-grid acreage whichoffersatidy 2bedroom cabinwith an open plan kitchen anddiningarea,bathroomand carport. Abore,small vineyard, irrigatedgardens,dam,rainwater storageand multipleoutbuildings make it ideal for hobbyfarming or aself sufficient lifestyle. The coniferhedgeprovideswindbreakand privacy,while theestablishedinfrastructure supports relaxedrural living.Whether you’re downsizing or chasingthe treechangedream,thispropertydeliverscomfort,potential andpeacefulsurrounds.
Off-Grid Living on 7Acres with Vineyard &Water Security 21 63.08ha(approx.7acres)
Endless potential
Perfectly positioned in asought-after Gisborne pocket, 3 Carinya Drive offers the ideal blend of space, comfort and convenience. Set on agenerous 1000m (approx.) allotment with established gardens and fantastic street appeal, this home presents an exciting opportunity for families, investors, or those looking to add their own touch.
Inside, you’ll find two spacious living areas, including a light-filled lounge and dining space with acosywood heater, perfect for relaxing year-round. The functional kitchen flows seamlessly into the family room, opening to alarge covered entertaining area, ideal for hosting gatherings.
The home features three well-appointed bedrooms, including amaster retreat with walk-in robe and private
ensuite, while the remaining bedrooms share acentral bathroom. Additional features include: double carport, ceiling fans, reverse-cycle split system, feature bay window and generous backyard.
Beyond the property’scharm, enjoy the ultimate convenience of being within close proximity to Gisborne town centre, offering multiple primary and secondary school options, childcare, medical facilities, supermarkets, local cafés, restaurants and more. Plus, take in stunning northfacing views of the Macedon Ranges, adding to the home’s undeniable appeal.
Arare find in an unbeatable location –don’t miss this opportunity!
Set on agenerous corner block with beautifully established gardens, this elegant modern homestead offers unparalleled living space and an enduring style. Designed with both family lifestyles and entertaining in mind, the home boasts athoughtful layout, extensive vehicle accommodation and superb outdoor spaces, making it arare and highly desirable find.
Awelcoming wraparound veranda sets the tone for relaxed country-style living, while inside, the home offers aspaciousand practical design. Featuring four generous bedrooms plus aseparate office with built-in storage –ideal as afifth bedroom –the accommodation is perfectly suited to growing families or those needing extra flexibility.The main suite is atrue retreat, complete with awalk-in wardrobe and awell-appointed ensuite featuring a luxurious corner bath. The remaining three bedrooms each include built-in robes and are serviced by acentral family bathroom.
At the heart of the home, the expansive kitchen is designed for both practicality and enjoyment, with astep-in pantry,amplebench space and alovely garden outlook. Flowing effortlessly into the open-plan living area, it creates awarm and inviting space for everyday living and entertaining.
Abay-windowed dining area captures beautiful natural light, while the nearby huge lounge room provides the perfect place to relax. Aseparate rumpus room, complete with a built-in bar and cupboard storage, offers additional space for entertaining, agames area or
aprivate retreat. Year-round comfort is assured with ducted reverse-cycle air conditioning, while quality carpets and drapes add arefined touch.
Outside, the property excels in both functionality and appeal. Alarge paved alfresco area provides an ideal setting for outdoor gatherings, while the extensive gardens offer a serene and picturesque backdrop. Vehicle storage is abundant, with athree-car garage featuring rollerdoor access and aseparate workshop/storage area, plus an additional carport.
Situated in an established, peaceful neighbourhood, this outstanding home delivers on every level –its spacious proportions, quality finishes andimpressive array of features. Here style and practicality come together to create atruly exceptional home.
Property: Elegantmodern homesteadwithgenerous living spaces
Address: 1LawrenceParkDrive, Castlemaine
Price: $1,090,000
Agent: Belle Property
Contact: RobWaller0418 571 130
Blasi Mulholland 0417 311 733
Wanted to Purchase
Land suitable for the Development of a Retirement Village
Location: Ideally within one of the townships in the Macedon Ranges.
Zoning: Preferably land zoned General Residential Zone (GRZ) or adjacent to or nearby land in the GRZ that could be suitable for rezoning for a retirement village
Land size: 1 5 ha to 3 ha (Approximately 4 to 7 acres)
Topography: Flat or mildly undulating land with or without an existing residence
Options: Could consider multiple adjoining properties/dwellings or land that could be excised off a larger land holding
Call: John Keating 0419 880 444
Belle Property Castlemaineand Maldon.
•The 1873 Holy Trinity Brick Church offers auniqueblend of historical charm and modern luxury.
•Grand Brick Church Hall, asplit-level Timber Sunday School Hall, 3spacious double bedrooms, 2rustic yet modern bathrooms.
•Beautiful character finishes and designer wallpapers throughout, adding personality and style.
•Large north-facing alfresco deck, private garden, rear street access with 3-car carport, 9x6m workshop. Just 3km from Castlemaine’s town centre.
a 1 b 508 r 69 Templeton Street, Castlemaine RobWaller 0418571 130
•1800s brick cottagewith Commercial 1zoning.
•Spaciousliving areas, updated kitchen and a detached studio foradditionaluse
•Private, established garden withfruit trees and outdoor entertainingarea.
Rob Waller |0418 571130
| 0417 311 733
Barker Street, Castlemaine
PropertyMaldon |5475 1055
0417311 733
a 2 b 4 v 952 r 1MillerRise, Campbells Creek
•Custom built4-bedroompassivehome
•Gourmetkitchen, high-end finishes, and anorthfacingpatio for year-roundentertaining.
•Terraced garden,doublegarage,and caravan parking,just2.5km from Castlemaine CBD
Narelle Waller |0408571 131 Rob Waller | 0418 571 130
Garden hideaway with mid-century charm
This triple fronted weatherboard invites the outside in with large almost floor-to-ceiling windows and afree-flowing floorplan set among awell-established garden. The home feels relaxed. Upon entry,refurbished wooden floors invite you into the living room. Flowing from here, the light-filled dining overlooks rear paved alfresco accessed via glass sliders. Double ovens and terrazzo look benches feature in the kitchen along with wooden cabinetry,Bosch dishwasher and electric cooking.
Noted as a‘sun gallery’ on the original plans, the wide hall to the bedrooms enjoys an expansive wall of windows overlooking the tiled front terrace, large enough to accommodate outdoor seating and dining. There are three bedrooms, all enjoy garden views. The master has split system and large built-in robe. The second has built-in shelving plus afull wall of built-in robes and the third, with its corner windows, would make an excellent home office or child’sroom. Acentral family bathroom features bath and separate shower
Further improvements include ducted overhead heating, aNectrewoodfire heater in the living, reverse-cycle split systems, polished timber floors, ambient track lighting and the home has been fully restumped in 2022. Outside is sundry shedding, single lockable carport with remote roller door,sun blinds, and afully secure yard.
The quarter-acre block offers opportunities to enjoy tranquillity,reimagine agarden of your dreams, or the possibility of subdivision STCA. Landscaped with meandering path-
ways and established garden beds, offering adelight for entertaining and for gardeners as the soil here has been lovingly built up over 50 years by one owner/gardener.Seasonal plantings provide colour and larger trees and shrubs provide shade inviting an array of local birds to watch throughout the day.A disused pool has been repurposed creating an excellent enclosure for aveggie patch.
Located in prime Castlemaine North, ashort stroll from the Botanical Gardens, The Mill precinct, swimming pool, golf course, train station and quick access to the M79 to Bendigo or Melbourne.
Contact: Di Selwood 0488 148 358 Kaylene Disher 0431 039512
5 French Court
$660,000 - $675,000
Inspect: Contact agent
Agent: Di Selwood 0488 148 358 FAMILY FRIENDLY LOCALE
Bright, spacious 4-bedroom brick home in family friendly location
• Main & ensuite bathrooms, open plan living & dining, ducted heating & evap cooling
• Large outdoor decked area with above ground pool and covered alfresco
• Double garage plus 16 panel solar system
Willows Run: ACountry Escape
64 Castlemaine Street, Fryerstown
Located in the peaceful hamlet of Fryerstown, Willows Run offers an opportunity to experience the charm and tranquillity of country living. This muchloved three-bedroom home is set on agenerous 2024 sqm block (approx), making it an ideal retreat for the hobby farmer,weekend getaway,oranyone seeking amove-in-ready property with arural feel.
$645K-$675K
View Saturday 29 March 12:45pm-1:15pm Contact Nick Haslam 0422 848 662
3Station Street, Campbells Creek
This retrobrick veneer four-bedroom home offers afantastic opportunity for first-time buyers or investors alike and is situatedonaneat 566 sqm (approx) corner block in the heart of Campbells Creek. The fully-fencedback garden has side car access and a6mx6mgarage with power,perfect for storing vehicles or setting up aworkshop.
Welcome to this beautifully presented threebedroom home, an idyllic oasis nestled in the heart of nature. Privately positioned on agenerous 3755 sqm (approx.) block, this property offers an unparalleled escape to the country,with the sounds of birds and agorgeous garden that seamlessly merges with the surrounding bushland.
$849,000
View Saturday 29 March 1:30pm-2:00pm Contact Nick Haslam 0422 848 662
Contemporary Eco-Friendly Living 8/19 RecklebenStreet, Castlemaine
This stunning 8.1-star energy-efficient threebedroom, two-storey townhouse perfectly balances modernliving with sustainable values. Welcome to The Paddock, athoughtfully designed, communityfocused development wheresustainability,privacy, and shared experiences unite seamlessly
This well-maintained presented brick veneer home offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience, situated on agenerous 700 sqm (approx) corner block just ashort drive from Castlemaine’stown centre. This home presents an opportunity for those seeking amodern, lowmaintenance lifestyle in asought-after location. $730,000
0473 642 644
MIDLAND Property &Living
Nestled in the picturesque historic town of Maldon, this enchanting four-bedroom Victorian cottage exudes timeless charm and character,offering the perfect escape to the country
Set on agenerous 2206 sqm (approx) corner allotment, the property combines the allure of abygone erawith the comforts of modern living.
Athree-door garage with an adjoining workshop and shedding provides ample space for storage, creative projects or the car enthusiast. The home blends the original charm with contemporary touches to create awelcoming and functional living space. With its charming facade and tranquil surroundings, this property is arare find for those seeking the perfect blend of history,comfort and country living.
This inviting property welcomes you with aquintessential picket fence that leads you into abeautifully maintained cottage garden. As you approach the home, the front verandah beckons, leading you into acentral hall that connects the various spaces of this delightful residence. Twofront-facing bedrooms are at the front of the home, with the first featuring asplit system and dual 6x6 windows that frame views of the pretty cottage garden and surrounding landscape. The second bedroom has an open fireplace surrounded by period timber detailing. Athird bedroom overlooks the side garden, while the main bedroom benefits from built-in robes.
The rear ofthe home has been thoughtfully extended, with aspacious open-plan living area with a kitchen and dining space. This sympathetic addition retains the home’shistoric charm, boasting high ceilings, timber cladding and beautiful spotted gum flooring. The living room has asolidwood heater.Double doors lead to arear wrap-around verandah with a view ofthe back and side gardens. At the heart of the home lies the kitchen, designed with both functionality and style in mind. An oversized island bench creates an ideal space for casual dining, and the farmhouse-
Enchanting Victorian Hidden opulencein the heart of Woodend
style sink, dishwasher and freestanding 900mm gas cooktop with oven are perfect for entertaining family and friends. Awalk-in pantry andplumbing for afridge add tothe convenience. The dining roomflows seamlessly into asecond living/sitting room, where double doors open to anorth-facing courtyard, ideal for entertaining or simply enjoying the outdoors.
The family bathroom has been beautifully appointed with afreestanding clawfoot bath, awalk-in shower,vanity and separate toilet, while the laundry offers convenient external access. Attention to detail is evident with high ceilings, timber finishes, period windows and modern comforts such as split systems and ceiling fans. The property is also on town water
Outside, the expansive grounds are ahighlight.A 9m x12m three-door garage with aloft area provides ample space for car enthusiasts, with aworkshop, concrete flooring and power,making it perfect for hobbies and practical use. Additional shedding offers further storage options, while the garden features a veggie patch, fruit trees and lawn areas, all surrounded by the beauty of the cottage garden.
Maldon is renowned for its rich history and local charm, offering adelightful blend of heritage and natural beauty.With its proximity to the stunning landscapes of the Victorian Goldfields, this property is an ideal opportunity to experience the best of country living while being just astone’sthrow from the vibrant community of Maldon.
Property: Victorian cottage on generous allotment
Address: 62 HornsbyStreet,Maldon
Price: $1,185,000
Agent: Cantwell Property
Contact: MeganWalmsley0411 043 324
This Fasham town residence is astatement in natural light and tranquillity.Stunning garden vistas enable those inside a sophisticated country lifestyle all year round. Apleasant stroll to everything Woodend has on offer,this property is for the discerning buyer with an appreciation for quality and location.
Sitting in complete privacy at the end of ahedge-lined driveway,the home emerges with understated elegance –but be prepared, as there are surprises at every turn. The home has generous proportions throughout, with the centrepiece being the central living room with abreathtaking coved ceiling where you could host agathering of 20 or equally enjoyed in solitude.
From the kitchen you are struck by the symmetry,with your eye drawn to the spotted gum timber ceiling and floors through to the gas log fire. Taking full advantage of the northern orientation, the living area flows
seamlessly outside to avine-covered pergola, adaptable for all seasons.The three bedrooms all have garden vistas, in particularly the master,where with the blinds opening in the morning it could feel like you are in the garden. There are lotsof intimate spaces to be enjoyed in the home including the wine room, sitting room, office and alibrary with your own window seat tospend an afternoon. High quality finishes as expected with heated floors throughout, remote blinds, double glazing and 5KW backtogrid solar Outside, the mature garden is to be enjoyed throughout the year.Well terraced, allowing you to meander around via the gravel paths complemented by rock walls and hedging –there is plenty to explore. The vegetable garden with raised beds will keep the avid gardener entertained.
Certainly,one for the purists, this exquisite property needs an inspection to be fully appreciated.
Your lifestyleisherewaiting
What awonderful way to settle into this idyllic part of central Victoria by stepping into this refurbished brick home Circa 1940.
Nestled on the perimeter of the delightful Harcourt Village, a few minutes’ stroll to Single Origin bean coffee at your new locale General Store. Filled with local produce, wines and outdoor umbrellas, you’ll be torn about where to work from!
The mudroom towards the rear of the home allows private access to the backyard and aperfect spot to stow boots and jackets. You’ll find original features such as ornate ceilings,
generous-sized bedrooms, timber windows and doors, timber floors and picture rails, along with arefurbished antique stove and oven, polished hardwood floors, anew modern bathroom and an updated kitchen with new appliances. Located approximately 15 minutes to Bendigo, eight minutes to Castlemaine, or 70 minutes to Melbourne, stroll the foothills of the majestic Mt Alexander,riding the bike paths, and surrounded by apple orchards and wineries, your lifestyle is here waiting.
2Pleasant Street, CASTLEMAINE
THIS CHARMING SOLID RED BRICK
•This charming solid redbrick home with origins going back prior to the introduction of the Melbourne train line sits proudly atop Clinkers Hill withlovelyviewsdownBarker St and beyond.
•Thehome has undergone atasteful renovation retaining original features and introducing some modern lifestyle wants to offer 3 bedrooms, amasterwith ensuite, generous sized main bathroom, awell-appointed and good-sized kitchen with east-facing windowand aspacious open-plan family living and meals area.
•A large laundrymudroom gives access to agood-sized backyardwith an old-world mulberrytreeand other plantings with asecurelock-up single garage, workshop,and carport.
Property: Apple Seed Cottage
Address: 26BuckleyStreet,Harcourt
NewPrice: $599,000
Agent: Castlemaine Property Group
Contact: 5470 6277
71 Faradale Drive, FARADAY
LIFESTYLE RETREATWITH ADDITIONAL INCOME OPTION
•Set on approx.2.023ha (5 acres) at the end of atranquil countrylane, featuring established trees, adam,bore, vegetable gardens, and private garden spots for apeaceful rurallifestyle.
•Thetwo-level home includes amoderneast-facing kitchen, renovated bathroom, open-plan living, flexible upstairs space, and awest-facing deck to capturebreathtaking sunsets.
•A 100sqm studio/workshop with 4.5m clearance, mezzanine, and bathroom offers versatility,plus asecond 6x9m garage, split systems, solid fuel heating, 65,000L+ water storage, and a6.5kW solar system for self-sufficient living.
Lovedmother of Jeremyand Martyn.
Aprivate
KASBERGEN
Adrian Members of Trentham Lions Club extend our condolences to the family of our past Lion, Adrian. Atireless worker for the Lions Club and Trentham community formanyyears AlwaysRemembered
KN283384/L
LAHTZ
Hans Heinrick
11.12.1935 -16.3.2025
Passed away in hospital.
Nowatpeace No more suffering.
Husband of Sheila, father of Glenn and Rhonda. Rest in Peace Private funeral attended.
MCLEAN
Gavin Reginald (Reg)
6.8.1945 -17.3.2025
Lovedson of Kenand Helen (Nell) (both dec). Brother of Leon and Helen. R.I.P
KN283371/L
Richard ‘Dick’
FRANK LEWIS
Robyn, Hannah andJames would liketo thank everyone fortheir great kindness afterthe suddenlossofFrank. The visits, food,flowers, messages, cards, attendance at the service and the gathering after,gaveusmuch-needed support at our time of deepest sorrow.
We would also liketothank Deb, Brian and Tim fortaking on the organization at Avonsleigh. In addition, BendigoHospital must be thanked fortheir kind, professional and respectful care With our deep appreciation to youall, from The Lewis Family.
KN283382/L
tammymcumby@ gmail.com
KISIC -Rajko(Zaro)
7.10.1954-17.3.2025
Passed away suddenly at R.M.H -ICU
Will be sorely missed by friends andfamily. Hugely lovedbyMaria, Alexandra, Isadora, Olivia, Robertand Rosalie. Along time loyalemployeeand fun work mate at BarkerTrailers,Woodend. Will be cherished foreverbyhis family in Montenegro and Serbia.
KN283386/L
‘Pocivanamiru’ Remember them with love and a tribute
WILSON –Maureen Elizabeth
18.10.1940 –31.01.2025
Formerly of Woodend WifeofRoger, mother of Catherine Richard and Jacqueline Mother-in-LawofMichelle and Silas Grandmother of Jemma, Alice,Coco, Clementine, Ezra and Vita
AMemorial Service forMaureen will be held on MONDAY March 31, 2025 at 2.00pm at the Thomas J. ScottMemorial Chapel, 5Piper St Kyneton.
Notice of Intention to Dispose of Uncollected Goods
All items located at Room 13, 1Halford Street, Castlemaine 3450 will be disposed. Disposal will take place on 14 April 2025. Please contact Workspace emailinfo@workspaceaustralia.com
Section 29 of the FairTradingAct 1999 requires the inclusionofafullnameand 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. of Justice if requested.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL!
The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful foranadvertiser to showany intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy,race, age,marital status,political or religious belief or activity,industrial activity,parental or carer status physical features,disability,lawful sexual activity/ sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with aperson with one of theabove characteristics,unless covered by an exception or granted an exemption under the Act. As we could be legally liable if we print an unlawful advertisement, we will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. Formore information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.
The Volunteer Manager of Operations is responsible foroverseeing the day-to-day operations of the Gisborne Foodbank. This is ahands-on, voluntary, role that requires commitment and availability everyweek forapproximately 16 hours 9am -3pm in Gisborne -Wednesdays &Fridays -4hours workfrom home In returnyou will be feeding hope in the Gisborne and Macedon Ranges communities
Single Beds.Brand newawning and fittings Very well looked after and regularly serviced. Light weight, single axle.Lots of extras included. $19,500 ono Gary: 0417 161 199 KN283406/L
KYNETON
Collins Newsagency -Mollison St
Express Office -Market Street
Fika Café
Kyneton Home Hardware
Kyneton IGA
Kyneton /Daylesford Drycleaners
Watts Fresh -Mollison Street
EG Ampol Petrol Station
MALMSBURY
General Store
REDESDALE /LANGLEY
General Store
TRENTHAM /TYLDEN
IGA Country Store
General Store
WOODEND /CARLSRUHE
IGA Woodend
Woodend Newsagency
Carlsruhe Roadhouse
GISBORNE
Foodworks
Gisborne IGA
RIDDELLS CREEK
Riddells Creek Newsagency
MACEDON
Macedon IGA
Macedon Newsagency &Post Office
MT.MACEDON
Mt Macedon Tradingpost
ROMSEY
IGA Romsey
Coles Romsey
LANCEFIELD
Lancefield IGA
Liberty Service Station
Property Management Macedon Ranges
CASTLEMAINE
AmpolService Station -Johnstone Street
Belle Property -Barker Street
Caravan Park Big -Doran Street
Castlemaine IGA -Barker Street
Castlemaine Property Group
Castlemaine Vintage Bazaar
Cumberland -Barker Street
Daily Express -C/M Railway Station
Das Coffee House -Mill-Walker Street
Hot &Crusty -Barker Street
Jellis Craig -Mostyn Street
Lyal Eales -Barker Street
Maxi IGA -Hargreaves Street
Newsagency -Mostyn Street
Regional Enterprise -Halford Street
Tingays smash repairs -Elizabeth Street
CHEWTON /TARADALE
ELPHINSTONE
Grist Bakery -Wesley Hill
East End Servo -Main
Chewton Post Office
Elphinstone Post Office
Taradale Metro Fuel
HARCOURT
Post Office
Harcourt BP
CAMPBELLS CREEK /GUILDFORD
Mt Alexander Timber &Hardware
Campbells Creek Post Office
Five Flags Merchants
Guildford Post Office
NEWSTEAD
Newstead Grocer/Bakery
Post Office/RSD
Newstead Country Store
MALDON
Newsagency -Main Street
Maldon Information Centre
Baringhup Store
CASTLEMAINE
Town & District
Afield of 52 turned out for Saturday's stableford, with the overall winner James McLeish (19) emerging from C-grade with an impressive 41 points.
He had one to spare from Todd OBrien (33).
Matthew O'Brien (4) ledin the A-graders with 30 points, one clear of Jason Cordy (6).
In B-grade, honours went to Leon Thomas (14) with 37, from Jason Glenister ((13) on 34.
The early 9@9 stableford went to Rob Prendergast (+5) with 16 points, on a countback from Kevin Adams (19).
Asmaller field ofplayers hit offbefore the rain arrived onThursday
Kerin Lourey (6) led the way with a fine 38 points, one clear of Gavin Lang (3).
NTPs went to Andrew Wilson and Ross Bottomley
GISBORNE
Thanks to Gisborne Bowling Club for providing avenue for the club'sannual general meeting on Wednesday night.
The number of new members joining the club, social golfers turning up to play, and locals using the driving range has been amazing. All agreat support for the club as it starts the next major project of rebuilding the clubhouse.
On Saturday members played Gary Hoffman'sfavourite competition, Gentsomes.
The winners with 102 points were Mauro Calligan, Tony Abate, Matt Conroy and James Golland.
In the open competition Greg Paine took out A-grade with 39points, Bernie Shahan topped B-grade with 42, and Brendan Earl topped C-grade with 40.
Alarge group of Gisborne women headed offtoRich River to play 36 holes and enjoy acouple of days socialising. LynLongmuir won the green jacket.
Back athome, Kathy Richards won A-grade 1, and in-form Dao Lock topped won A-grade 2with 38points.
LANCEFIELD
Agreat shout out totwo juniormembers this week
Lachy Gilbert Mortlock is an eightyear-old who competed with his father Steve and local identity Greg Parks in the three-person Ambroseon Saturday (four compulsory drives each).
For several years Lachy was apermanent fixture in his dad'scart, observing all. He qualified for his Australian Golf handicap in January,and has played on Saturdays and Wednesday twilight ever since.
He performed admirably on Saturday and his team justfailed by 0.33 of a stroke to emerge as winners.
Victory went to the trio of Gavin Woodwood (15), Gary Dudderidge (8) and Alastair Beard (29) with 59.33, closely followed by the trio of Steve Gilbert (8), Greg Parks (10) and Lachy (54) with 59.66.
depleted with several players competing in the Hidden Valley Open, and with pennant over five consecutive Sundays, afull weekend of golf is too much to ask of long-suffering partners and golfing widows.
Overall and B-grade winnerwas Nick Ciesielski (12) with 39 points, on acountback from C-grader Mark Shepherd (20). Mark Burrage (11) topped A-grade with a very ordinary 32 points.
NTPs went to M. Payne, M. Hoiles and N. Vicary
Perfect conditions last Wednesday led to aquarter of the field achieving or bettering handicaps.
The best round came from A-grade winner Kevin Taylor (17) with 40 points, from Marcus Ward (14) on 38.
In B-grade, Peter Semmens (22) had 39, with Kark Pongracic (21)37being runner-up on acountback.
ROMSEY
About 30 to 40millimetres of rain has made ahuge difference to the area
Greens continue to respond to constant repair work and it is hoped the corellas will moveon soon.
TheAlgie Mitchell Shield is is the club'soldest shield, and positions in the play-offs are keenly sought.
Only the top four proceed to the semi-finals after Saturday'sround. Semifinalists are Scott Williams (12) vLuke Lyons (0) and Davey Kenney (6) vDylan Harris (0).
Scott Williams(18) wonSaturday's stableford with 39 points, on acountback from Kenney (14), with Harris (6) third with 37.
Harris was spot-on with three NTPs and the longest drive!
Wednesday stableford: John Freestone 39 points, from Darlene Baker and Chris Manktelow 34.
Delightful autumn conditions greeted players on Saturday.
The men competed for the Arthur Moloney memorial trophy —Arthur and Grace were icons of the club and their daughter,Kath Morrison, sponsors the event each year
Craig Cotton claimed the trophy and A-grade with 40 stableford points, on a countback from SGA GC member Steven O'Hgan.
Consistent John Smithwick topped B-grade with 37, and C-grade went to legendary life member David Nugent, on acountback from TinCan Bay visitor David Armstrong.
Saturday'sround of the Grace Moloney trophy was played by the ladies.
Best score was anett72from B-grade winner Irene Kocicz, while Trish Mann took out A-grade with a74.
Not to be outdone, 13-year-old Darcy Creer (34) beat the whole field for NTP on the 'money hole' 5th over the dam and between the bunkers.The future looks bright.
Round 1pennant on Sunday —Restricted handicap div.1— Trentham d Lancefield 4/1; Handicap div.3— Broadford dLancefield 3/2.
Friday ladies: With 32 millimetres of rain overnight it was strange for players to be cleaning mud offtheir balls. Jenni Vennell won with 33 points, from Kaylene Cruise 29 and Marlane Pattinson 29. MOUNT MACEDON
Saturday'sfield was somewhat
Tomorrow (Wednesday) Trentham ladies host their Kyneton counterparts in their annual challenge event.
WOODEND
The best score in Saturday'sstableford came from A-grader Gary Richards (5) who came in with 39 points, three clear of Guy Moxley (4).
In B-grade it was Gary Delaney (17) who took the honours with 38, while Bruce Kent (35) led the way in C-grade. Greg Mayne (20) took out the midweek event with 36 points, from Trevor Bowen (10) 35.
Overdue heavy rain last week freshened up many of the courses, with Woodend'steams making their presence felt in the first round of Dalhousie on Sunday
Tennismarathon marks centenary
Bill West
Macedon Tennis Club celebrates its centenary throughout 2025, beginning with acontinuous 24-hour tennis marathon at Tony Clarke Recreation Reserve this Saturday and Sunday.
President Liz O'Connell said it is avery special year for the club, with avariety of special events on the calendar.
Celebrating the centenary and raising funds at the same time will hopefully lead to the club being able to resurface its four hard courts (the club has eight courts altogether).
With agrowing population and an interest in tennis increasing across various age groups, the tennis club is planning for avery positive future.
Any families or individuals with former connections with
Macedon Tennis Club are welcome to come along and be involved in the celebrations.
"We certainly value those who have done so much for tennis at the club in the past, and hope the volunteer spirit at MTC continues to grow," the president said.
The tennis marathon begins at noon this Saturday and continues all night until mid-day on Sunday.
Tennis will be played continuously, at least on one court, at all times.
And you don't have to be aMTC member to participate, it's open to anyone in the community or further afield.
During the 24 hours activities will include aFast 5round robin, ateen tournament, kids' dot ball tennis, and activities, plus sausage sizzle and pizza.
Donations of cash or prizes towards the marathon or as-
NEW COACH WELCOMED
New club coach Ashleigh Woda has been warmly welcomed since moving to Macedon with her family.
Ahighlycredentialled coach, Woda was formerly with Essendon Tennis Club.
Ashleigh grew up in Newstead and was initially home schooled at an early age because of her tennis commitments.
She later attended Caulfield Grammar and played at international level.
At Macedon, Ashleigh coaches from kinder to junior and adult levels.
Macedon Tennis Club history
Notable achievements and milestones timeline of Macedon Tennis Club.
•In1919 -Strip of land behind Jubilee Hall leased to Macedon Tennis Club
•1920 -Working Bee created asingle bitumen court. On November 23 Mr W. McKay (club president) formally opened the Macedon Tennis Club court, and its first proper match was played.
•1935 -Commencement of the Gisborne Tennis Association.
•1960's -Bitumen court located where Jubilee Hall car park is now.
•1970 -The first two En Tout Cas courts built at Tony Clarke Reserve in the current location. Still in use in 2024.
•1975-76 -Tennis coaching by John Tadd began.
•1976-79 -Second set of En Tout Cas courts three and four built at current location.
•1977-78 -Originalclubhouse built.
Footprint of current kitchen across to storage cupboards. No toilets -players used public toilets at Tony Clarke Reserve.
•1979 -Macedon moved that juniors no longer played Cgrade but had their own Saturday morning competition.
•Late 1970s -Ladies competition started by Macedon member, Barbara Southill (Butinar) and Judy Trimole, of Gisborne.
•1989-90 -Two Plexi pave courts built (courts five and six). Court lights installed by club members for $11,000.
•1994-95 -Extended clubhouse to include current dining area.
•1995 -GDTA ceased when the Kennett Government merged the shires and the Macedon Ranges Tennis Association was formed.
•1998-99 -Extended clubhouse to
include toilets and showers. Cost $56,000. Members provided labour.
•2010-11 -Fourthset of courts built. Plexi pave surface. Lights also installed to these courts.
•2021 -Inaugural girls' squad commenced with MTC sending two girls to the grant funded coaching program run from the Riddells Creek Club to keep girls engaged in tennis.
•2019-22 -The worldwide COVID 19 saw the community locked down, but tennis continued as it was an outside activity. At times competition ceased but women's Tuesday ladies were allowed social hits within the club which was good for comradery and built women's networks within the club. Memberships remained steady during this time despite job losses and financial hardship within the community.
Get the family into golf
Castlemaine Golf Club is hosting afree 'Family Get into Golf Day' on Sunday,April 6. The come and try day and will present achance for the whole family to learn about golf.
Tryyour hand in hitting the ball, join the putting competition, see if you can chip in on the 12th hole, learn about the 125 year history of golf at Castlemaine with Michael Bottomley,and have atour of the club'scourse.
Participants will be then join club members for a sausage or two and an icy pole between 11am and 1pm. The Castlemaine Golf Club is keen to show the community how golf can be afamily affair.Recently
the local club raised $2000 for the Breast Cancer Network for their services in Victoria.
They are always keen to include anyone who is eager to learn golf and run regular Get into Golf Days.
Castlemaine Golf Club is located at the corner of Pyrenees Highway and Rilens Road (opposite the Castlemaine Steiner School and Kindergarten).
The event will run from 10am to 2pm and is sponsored by Community Bank Maldon and District. For details, visit the club'sFacebook page or phone Ian Clarke 0409 548 482.
Jayne, Ross, Poppy and Julie are aproud family of golfers.
•2024-OnMay 3"Fence Fiesta" celebrations for new fences and retaining walls around courts one to six. $150,000 cost shared by MRSC, Community Bank Gisborne and District, Tennis Australia, Tennis Victoria, GREAT Association and MTC.
•2025-OnJanuary 24 the club held an Australian Open viewing party to watch the Men's semi-finals on an outdoor screen at the clubhouse.
•2025-The club received a$8200 MRSC community grant to revitalise native garden beds. Three raised garden beds were installed between the clubhouse and court three on February 23.
Thanks to MTC's former coach John Tadd for providing details on the history of Macedon Tennis Club from 1973 to the present time
Turning back the clock: players pictured at the original Macedon court in 1946. Photo supplied by Luchena Smith. New coach: Ashleigh Woda.
Winning streak continues
Bill West
Kyneton Bowling Club's incredible run of success in regional events this season continued last Tuesday, with the division 1midweek Highlands premiers scoring asubstantial victory in the Ballarat-Highlands midweek grand final.
The 71-49 victory to Kyneton over Ballarat division midweek champion Victoria ensured the Kyneton club will have two sides playing at Moama in the state titles late next month.
Almost abig holiday away from home, with Kyneton out to test some strong opposition.
The regional grand final for the division one midweek champions was played at Sebastopol, where Kyneton's division one Saturday premiers beat Victoria 65-62 three days earlier.
The midweek final outcome was apparent well before the finish.
Conrad Dawson's rink won 31-13 against Kevin Coad, Anthony Mathison prevailed 23-11 against Wayne Lynch, and David Kennedy's four played arolebyrestricting Murray Gannonto to a25-17 margin. Overall acomfortable 22 shots victory for Kyneton.
The huge collection of Highlands and BHBR titles this season is an extraordinary feat by the Kyneton club, asuccess that surely could not have been predicted by even the most ardent of supporters before the season began.
Individually, Kyneton men have also excelled in this season's Highlands and BHBD events.
INDIVIDUAL WINS
Greg Podesta, recruit of the season from Kangaroo Flat, won both the singles and Champ of Champ titles, and combined with Glen Cascyne and Graham Edwards to win the triples.
Battle hardened Jim Cooper and experienced recruit Jerry Richmond set the ball rolling for Kyneton early, in the season by winning the men's pairs, and the men's fours title went to Gascoyne, Terry Kelly, John O'Donnell and Anthony Mathison (s).
It's been aparticularly happy haven at Kyneton Bowling Club's headquarters this month, with supporters having much to celebrate.
There could also be some accomplished newcomers keen to get on the winning bandwagon for next season.
Over 60s win carnival final
Bill West
In an extraordinary finish, Sunbury Macedon Ranges Over 60s cricketers won the division one final of aprestigious cricket carnival held in Northern Victoria last week.
The final was atense, rain-interrupted affair match against astrong Geelong side.
Sunbury Macedon Veterans kept their composure under pressure, capturing the opposition's last three wickets without arun being scored, to win by two runs with two deliveries left.
Morrie Boccabella was the match winner, bowling the last over with Geelong needing five runs to win on the Windridge Oval at Rochester.
He bowled the last two Geelong batters with successive and finised with 4-11 from 4.3 overs, earning the Man of the Match award.
The 12th annual carnival conducted by Veterans Cricket Victoria and Goulburn Murray Cricket Association attracted alarge number of teams.
"It's been fantastic," Sunbury Macedon Ranges Veterans' secretary, Bill Morison, said after the match.
Sunbury Macedon Ranges Over 60s went through the home and away season unbeaten, capped with the dramatic win at the carnival.
To begin the week, Ranges won their first group match easily, dismissing ACT for 76 and replying with 3/81; awin and aloss then enabled the side to sneak into the final on percentage.
Geelong sent Ranges in to bat, and captured two wickets in the second over..
Some solid partnerships and good running between the wickets carrid Ranges to 5/95 before rain intervene.
Play was delayed for almost 90 minutes, and the DLS method introduced with each side to face 28 overs.
The Ranges scored valuable quick runs
in the last six runs to carry the score to 137, leaving Geelong with a4.7 run rate to win.
The loss of two main bowlers through injury left Ranges undermanned, but the side adjusted with good fielding and tight bowling.
At 4/105 Geelong was still on target, but acouple of wickets and asmart piece of fielding that produced arun outled to batters looking shaky under added pressure.
The last over arrived, and Boccabella delivered in what was amemorable match.
'OUR FIELD OF DREAMS'
Captain Peter 'Archie' Dudderidge ,an Australian rep, was overjoyed with the victory and warmly congratulated both players and supporters.
"Hold your heads up high today, it was our season, our field of dreams.
"We never relied upon one person today. Everyone played apartinthisremarkable match.
"Players sacrificed their chances to shine with the bat for the sake of the team as balls ran out in our innings.
"We've had so many highlights during the week, with people taking days off work to play, guys driving up here and back to support and play each day.
He declined to individualise, stating that every single person was just eye-watering superb.
"To see the spirit, emotion, tears of joy, smiles on our players and supporters' faces when we took those last two Geelong wickets was something that will stay with us all for ever."
The 13 Ranges players in the grand finl, and their scores, were: Mourrie Boccabella 0, Emanuel Tumino 0, Stephen Gray 20 n.o., Peter Dudderidge,14, Alan Shipp 34, Russell Matchett 3, Guy Nelson 1, Craig Wilkinson 22, Dale Thornton 15, Michael Smitheram 19 n.o, Adrian Thomson 1, Brett Beattie and Simong Pinder did not bat. Extras 5. TOTAL 134.
Geelong was dismisedfor 132 -with wickets taken by Boccabella 4-11, Tumino 2-20 and Thomson 2-30.
VETS GROWING
Veterans' cricket is looking forward to abright future in the Macedon Ranges Region.
President of Sunbury Macedon Ranges Veterans, Barry Borlase, said the Over 60s side winning the carnival in northern Victoria last week was just another step forward.
"This club was formed in 2009 and began playing veterans' cricket with one Over 60s team when the Veterans Cricket Victoria competition consisted of just eight teams," Borlase said.
"Now the sport has grown on anational level with three age groups —from Over 50s to Over 70s.
"In Victoria there is now more than 60 clubs and over 1800 participants throughout the state.
"Separate national championships are held annually.
"We have two 50s teams, a60s, and a 70s, and over 80 members, including playing and non-playing.
"The club is pleased with its achievements and extremely proud to have these players represent the Macedon Ranges Region."
Borlase said the club is always looking for new players and members to join.
"Playing in these carnivals is agreat opportunity for us to catch up with so many players we have travelled with and played together as teammates," Borlase said.
"To get together once again each year and enjoy great camaraderie and alittle of the competitive spirit is fantastic, and a whole lot of fun."
Anyone interested in joining the club should contact secretary Bill on
800.
The victorious Sunbury Macedon Ranges Over 60s after their triumph at Rochester.
Another victory: The Kyneton midweek division 1champions after their win on Tuesday. Photo: Anthony McCabe
Vernon 217n.o,Woodendcrash
Bill West
What aweekend of McIntyre 1sts semi-finals! Gisborne captain-coach Jarryd Vernon hit amasterly 217 not out on Saturday to virtually put Romsey out of the reckoning.
And top team Woodend appeared to be cruising, though very slowly, towards agrand final berth before an inexplicable and monumental batting collapse saw the last eight wickets tumble for 37 runs.
The outcome is hot flag favourite Gisborne play Sunbury United on neutral territory at Macedon in the 2024-25 grand final this Saturday and Sunday.
Sent in at Gardiner Reserve, Gisborne lost Spencer Jones and Will Mackay early, but Romsey's attack was thwarted by the formidable Vernon brothers in athird-wicket stand of nearly 100 runs.
Riley Vernon departed for 60 (10 fours) and keeper-bat Matt Barake joined his captain, Jarryd Vernon, at the crease.
They added 180 runs for the fourth wicket to put the Dragons well on top.
Barake's 81 (130 balls) was followed by Warren Kelly being run out.
Vernon stepped up the tempo after tea with afullarray of shots, having some good fortune to be dropped off ano-ball.
Romsey used eight different bowlers and after 80 overs the home side had 6/407 on the board.
Jarryd Vernon's 217 not out (243 balls, 17 fours and five sixes) must rate as one of the finest innings ever played in the GDCA. Acase of leading by example.
The 30-year-old left-hander felt the aches and pains overnight after 76 overs at the crease, but there's no doubt he has many more centuries left.
The 217 not out becomes Gisborne's highest ever individual score in McIntyre Cup, breaking Riley Vernon's 210 tally.
Logan Collins 2-52 and Aaron Paterson 2-92 were Romsey's multiple wickettakers.
Romsey's slim hope of making asuccessful run chase on Sunday vanished early when four wickets tumbled.
Paceman Leigh Brennan captured three of them.
It was left to Redbacks captain-coach Ben Way and quality bat Chris Burkett to put on auseful fifth-wicket partnership, but the run rate required seemed well out of reach.
Way was trapped lbw for 51 and Burkett contributed 43, with Thomas Boyer making 19 in atotal of 156.
Eight batters failed to reach double figures, and Brennan 4-36 was the pick of the bowlers, with each Vernon claiming two wickets.
Gisborne has scored over 400 runs in its last three matches, but Jarryd Vernon is not underestimating grand final opponent
Sunbury United.
"We will need to be at our best building partnerships is really important," he said.
WOODEND ON TOP, BUT ...
The other semi-final at Gilbert Gordon Oval was one where Woodend was on top when Joe Monk dismissed dangerous United opener Fabian Fernando for a 'duck'.
But how things can change.
In summary, Woodend was extremely pleased to dismiss United for amoderate 165 in 64.5 overs on Saturday, with evergreen Warren Else superb with acareerbest 7-38 from 23 consecutive overs.
Liam Sherlock 44, Ryan Billinghurst 38, and captain Damian Edwards 35 were the main scorers for United.
Woodend reached 1/24 on Saturday evening, Harry Lawson caught for 11 just before stumps
Making another 141 for victory on Sunday may have looked to be acakewalk to many supporters, but runs were rather scarce, as were wickets.
Just before tea, Woodend was in the box seat at 2/87, but the dismissal of Harry Sheahan for 36 and captain MarcusStewart 13 lifted United's spirits.
On resumption, the Woodsmen were jolted as Hayden Ingleton, Else and Josh Eastley were dismissed for one run between them.
Tigers’ season launch
The build-up to Kyneton Football Netball Club's 2025 season continues, with special free season launch at the Kyneton Showgrounds this Sunday
"It promises to be agreat day out for the club's players, supporters and the wider Kyneton community," co-ordinator Ashleigh O'Gara said.
"There are lots of positives about how our teams will fare at all levels this season, and already we have agood spread of new and experienced players."
With Guy Nelson at the helm as the club'snew and enthusiastic president, the Tigers are already showing plenty of ability on the pre-season training track.
The season celebrations have plenty to interest both adults and youngsters, ranging from live music,
to food vans, canteen and barbecue, face painting and balloon animals.
Alongest kick competition for different levels, and junior practice matches are also on the program. Both ovals will be in use.
There'salso aFIDApractise match for the Tigers.
Certainly achance for old and new Tigers to sign up for their 2025 season memberships. Tigers' merchandise will also be available.
The Tigers value their regular volunteers, and newcomers will be welcome as well.
The season launch will be held at the Kyneton Showgrounds on Sunday,March 30, from noon until 5pm.
United kept up the pressure, and arun out was almost the final straw. Then Xavier Tadd was caught for 15. It washardtobelieve Woodend was all out for 124 (73.2) overs after being in such astrongposition.
United's hero was veteran paceman James Hughes, with 4-42 from 27 overs. from four overs, Chris Strods claimed 2-0, and Pulinda Kiriella also took two wickets. Now United has apremiership chance, and Woodend can only look to next season.
Twofor Wallan
Wallan won two Gisborne District Cricket Association grands finals at the weekend.
In Johnstone Shield 1sts, Wallan restricted Eastern Hill to 9/150 (O. Bryant 29, J. Wright 25, S. Feery 21—Steve Bell 4-16) and Wallan replied with 3/151 (Bryan Vance 40 n.o., Spencer Whittingham 40, Ryan Cumberland 36 n.o, Nathan Fowler 29). Wallan'sJohnstone 2nds side dismissed Aintree for 148 (L Bhakya 28, G. Nahal 23 and replied with 6/149 (Brad Regan 49, Beau Fowler 40, Brenton Hanson 31).
In the McIntyre 2nds grand final at Langama Park, Romsey batters failed to get on top of Sunbury United, losing early wickets on Saturday to be and dismissed for 133 (Tim Dale 47, Aaron Wright 21 —Cody McDorman 3-21, Cooper Boyes 3-23, Alex Hannah 3-22. Romsey bowlers forced United to bat for 76.2 overs, but stubborn opener David Falzon made an unbeaten 50 from 234 balls with United finishing on 5/134 (Dan Paterson 2-27).
Jarryd Vernon his 217 not out is one of the finest innings ever produced in the GDCA.
Woodend’s Warren Else dismisses Sunbury’s Senura Perera among his seven-wicket haul.
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