Midland Express Tuesday October 21 2025

Macedontobea powerhouse

Energy facility plans revealed,

Morgan Reinwald

Aprivatecompanywho purchased five hectaresoflandinMacedon will submit plansnextmonth to build an energy storagefacility in adesignatedbushfireprone area.

South Energy is developing aproject titled Macedon BESS (Battery Energy StorageSystems)toinstall 128 20-foot containerswithlithiumion batteries at Lot2,Black Forest Drive, locatedabout 3.5km from the Macedon township.

Thecompanywill usethe siteto purchaseunused energy from thegrid, storeitincontainers, and re-sellitback to theenergygrid duringpeak-demand times.The 100 megawattoperation has the capacity to powerabout 35,000 households continuously forfour hours,

according to their website

RobMitchell MP toured the site last week with South Energy'sproject manager and said he supported the project.

"Battery storagedelivers lowerenergy bills,reduces emissionsand improvesreliability of the grid by storingexcess power forlater use,"hesaid.

"These projects bring jobs, support local business anddeliverclean renewable energy into ourgrid to be used during peak times,which lowers energy costs."

However, oneresidenthas warned the facility'slocation is arisk to the community

CFAlifemember PeterShawspoketo the Express as aresident of Macedon. He said theproject posedafirehazard.

"Macedonand MountMacedonare one of the highest fire dangerareas in

but some saythere’srisk

the state,whichwas oneofthe main reasonswhy Macedonand MountMacedon willprobably neverbedeveloped to the levelofGisborne or Sunbury," Mr Shaw said "I acknowledgethattherewould be a benefit to the broadercommunity,and Icertainly don'twanttobeseen to be a'notmyback yard'person, butI'm not surethatthe site has been chosen with enough consideration "And on abad fireday,our fires come out of the southwest, and guess whereit is relativetothe town?"

South Energy'swebsite states the location,southwest of Macedon, was chosen because "it hasexcellentaccess to Victoriastate’s energy infrastructure throughthe adjacentGisborne Zone Substation; it is highly accessible through

transport connections through both Macedon-Woodend Road and Calder Freeway; it has anatural barrier of large trees and vegetation,which couldact as avisualshieldfor the project, andreduce visual impact fornearby residents; the local councilstronglysupports renewable energy through differentinitiatives such as installing hybrid systemofsolarand battery storage" Project manager Linh Nguyen said South Energy wasplanning to submit the proposaltothe DepartmentofTransport and Planning in about onemonth. She said studies on biodiversity,traffic noise andsocialimpact were conducted as part of this process, andalso included one on firerisk,which wasconducted alongside the CFA.

Continued page5

South Energy is developing a project to install 128 20foot containers with lithium ion batteries at Macedon Image illustrative only

Reforestation takesseed

MountMacedon is undergoing alandmark reforestation project to restorenativeforests to former pine plantation sites.

Theproject received $1.13 million funding through Victoria’s BushBank program.

“The MountMacedon Plantation Restoration Project is a hugewin forour region,"Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas said. "It'shelping to stop the decline of our nativeplants and animals and improve ournatural environment.”

About 22,500 nativetree saplings were plantedduring winteracross the 94-hectare siteonthe south-east side of MountMacedon.

Seeds from nativelocal trees were collected from the Macedon Regional Park in July 2023 to ensurethe newforest is createdfromspecies with local progeny.

Theseeds were carefully collected, cared forand grown into healthysaplings by alocal nursery ready forplanting.

Monitoring sites were created across the project area to monitor the impacts of browsing animals. Protective fencing wasinstalled in March2025. Drone-based weed mapping and spraying took placein spring to preparethe ground for planting.

Theforest is expected to significantly increase habitat fornativewildlife, improve soil health and waterquality.

Neighbour’s inspiration

Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil'sdeputy mayor, Kate Kendall, is encouraging residents to have their sayonaffordable housing in the shire.

"I'm particularly inspired by Mount Alexander ShireCouncil, which has been undertaking innovativeprojects in housing, including tiny housing, modular housing, a housing trust and housing forolder people," Cr Kendall said last week.

Shepointedout the currentsurvey in Macedon Ranges takes about fiveminutes of people's time to fill in.

Thesurvey is available online at yoursay. mrsc.vic.gov.au/affordable-housing

On Friday, Cr Kendall paid avisit to the RomseyMen's Shed and indicatedafterwardsshe wasvery impressed.

Parliamentary Secretary forOutdoorRecreation Luba Grigorovitch and Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomasvisited MountMacedonlast week.

Drink driver nabbed

An alcohol-impaired anddisqualifieddriverwill face court afterpoliceintervenedat GisbornelastMondaynight.

Policeintercepted the NissandrivingonStation Road sometime just before midnight. Thevehicle wasimpoundedatacost to the driver, andthe driver will face courtata laterdate.

Junior SchoolShowcase

Thursday 30 October, 4:00pm-7:30pm

We invite you to experience the amazingproject work of our Junior School students: •Year 7- Gallery of Learning

•Year 8- Make aDifference (MAD) Project

•Year 9- Major Projects

•Year 7- 9Art &Design Exhibition

TheEdgyVeg Awards areback!

Areyou alocal cafe, restaurant, pub,wineryorbar who’s passionate about vegetable-packed dishes?

Enter the 2026 Edgy VegMount Alexander Awards!

Theawardscelebrateour local food scene, while inspiring people to trynew thingsand explorehealthier choices.

It’s an opportunity forcafes, restaurants andgrowers to showcase theircreativeand tasty dishes.

Thewider community is alsoinvited to get involved by tryingand scoring each dish.

Sign up before Thursday30Octoberatbit.ly/EdgyVeg2026. Learn moreabout theEdgy VegAwardsat edgyvegawards.com.au.

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

Getyourtractor

Getyourtractor fix at theMountAlexander VintageEngine Club Tractor Pull this SundayOctober 26.

Theday will see vintageand classic tractor enthusiasts from across the state converge on the club's Muckleford headquartersatthe David Bennett Reservealongside the Muckleford Railway Station in Walmer Road

Therewill be morethan 30 beasts ranging from the1940s to 1976 settobattleitout in the 2025 competition.

Theday will also include stationary engine displays,a rangeoffood vans and various stalls and achancetoviewthe club's renowned twin engine Chamberlain tractor 'The Lizard' –ahybrid of twodifferentmodels thatwas built by local farmer Morrie Oxley back in the early 1980s.

Thetractor pull competition will kick offat10am and run until approximately 3pm. Entry is just $5 foradults and withchildren Under 15 free.

To enteryourtractor,contact John on 0417 504 507 or Colon0409 149 376.

MAVECmembers Graham Mason, Stephen O’Connor and John Blakeare pictured with a1958 Fordson Dexta ‘Trevor’,which hauled apple bins at Chaplin OrchardatHarcourt North forcountless years. Photo:Lisa Dennis

Paving the wayforward

Creating anew modelofco-housing forolder women

Jade Jungwirth

Older WomeninCohousing is astone's throw from reaching its targetof$1.4 million to support the Middle Women's Housing Fund, paving the wayfor the construction of asustainable, low-impact cohousing villageontheir five-acreproperty in Castlemaine.

Wanting to reflectthe diversity and financial status of all women, WINCis ensuring that fiveofthe 31 houses will be available forwomen accessing social housing, and fiveofthe homes will be allocated to 'middle women', those who have some income or assets, but aredeemed ineligible fora mortgage, largely due to theirage

WINC co-founder Mary-Faeth Chenery told the Express thatthe 'middle women' would contributeatleast 40 percentofthe cost of their home, and thefund would fill in the gap

"It'sa perpetual fund, which means the middle woman's part will go to her family or her estate,and the moneyinthe fund will ideally grow,and we can fundthatnext woman,"she said.

"Wehavefivewonderful women who want to livehere, who can't afford to.These women areinthe agegroup and the asset group thatare quitelikely to be homeless in the futureifthereisn't asolution available."

WINC'splans have been approvedby the council,and they hope to begin the civil works, building roadsand services early next year,with construction of the dwellings expected to commencebythe end of 2026.

"Ideally,I'd like to be in my home by Christmas 2027,"Mary-Faeth said.

"I'velearned alot morethan Iever wanted to knowabout housing! Butwhat it has done formeistogivemethe capacity to help others, and that'swhatI want to do.

"Demonstrating and documenting this initiativemeans it canbereplicatedhere and around thecountry and continue to grow

"Yes, we'redoing this forourselves, but most of us wouldn't be doing it if it was just forus; it needs to be biggerthan that."

With only $200,000 until theyreach their target, it is arelatively small amount to giveanuntold number of older women

housing security well into the future. If youwanttodonate,visit www givenow.com.au/wincmiddle-womenhousingfund. Alldonations aretax-deductible. WINC is hosting an open day on Saturday,October25, from 11am to 1pm at 19 MacafeeRoad, Castlemaine, with lunch provided. Head along and meet WINC members and learn about their plans and processes to createa wonderfulcommunity with 31 small homes. RSVP to Mary-Faeth Chenery,maryfaeth@winccohousing.org.au Formoreinformation, visit winccohousing.org.au

Macedon to be apowerhouse

From page1

"So[the CFA] they'revery careful about the positioning of thebattery,how we designit, howmanyfirehydrantswe have to install on site.They'veprovided quitea lotofgood guidance.We've definitelytaken all of thatfeedback on board and incorporatedthatintoour design," Ms Nguyen said.

"I don't have thedataoff the top of my head, but Idoknowthatwehave thousandsofprojectsbeinginstalled and therehavebeenveryfew incidents of fire. So,itisa safe technology

"And Ithink by the end of 2026and early2027 is when we expect thatthe projectwillgotoconstruction."

Ms Nguyen added therewould be a community benefit fund forthe developerstocontributetothe community

"Usually it would run from, depending on the project size, somewherefrom $30,000 to $50,000per year.And that will go to,I wouldsay,the counciland we'llcollaborate with themand determine which activitiesand which programs this funds."

As part of the DepartmentofTransport and Planning'sproperty report, thereisalsoRural ConservationOverlay and Vegetation Protection Overlayon the site.

Recent changes to Victorian Law remove planningpowers from local councilswhen renewable energy facilities aregreater than 1MW.Itwillinstead be deferred to the Minister forPlanningas part of the state government'sDevelopmentFacilitation Program, to fast-track planning permit approval. Decisions made under the DFP cannot be appealed to the Victorian Civil andAdministrative Tribunal.

YOUR LOCAL MACEDON RANGES GLAZIERS FOR OVER 55 YEARS

WINCworking bee.

Woodend marketa worldbest

Woodend has been honoured as one of the Top3 FarmersMarket Towns... notjust in Australia, but in the world, for2025. Therecognition wasgiven at theThird General Assembly of the World FarmersMarketsCoalition, held during the World Food Forum in Rome

While Rome took thetop prize,Woodend’srecognition as afinalist placesitfirmly on the global stageasaleader

in community-driven, sustainable food systems.

TheWoodend CommunityFarmersMarket,managed by the Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group,has grownto become thelargest and strongest market in aregion home to six farmersmarkets

Themarket offers morethan 90 regular and seasonal stallholdersand ispoweredbya passionate volunteer base.

It truly is avibranthub of local produce, artisan goods and environmental initiatives —fromzero-wasteprograms to EV charging stations and repair cafés.

So,besuretostopbyatone of the world'sbest next time your in town on the first Saturdayofthe month at the Community Centre grounds at the corner of High and Forest Streets.

Fringefiresup for Fringefiresupfor AusArt Day Da

Castlemaine Fringe is joining the nationwide AusArt Day celebration to help sustain the future of the local arts scene and keep creativity accessible and affordable for everyone

They're firing up the grill and bringing the good vibes this AusArt Day Join them outside the newsagent on Mostyn Street, Castlemaine, from 11am–2pm for their Fringe Pop-Up Hub Grab a snag or snack, pick up some discounted Fringe merch, renew or sign up for your membership, and help fuel the future of the Castlemaine Fringe Festival

Every food or merch purchase on the day puts you in the draw to win four tickets to an upcoming Fringe event of your choice Plus, they'll be giving away limited-edition Castlemaine Fringe bumper stickers –while stocks last

Be part of a movement that keeps local art, music, comedy, theatre, film and workshops alive and affordable across Mount Alexander Shire All donations made to Castlemaine Fringe via the Australian Cultural Fund are tax-deductible, and on AusArt Day, contributions will be matched by existing supporters (up to the value of $1700) – doubling your impact! Can’t make it on the day? You can still support the cause by donating online via the Fringe website, becoming a Fringe member, or spreading the word Every bit helps keep the Fringe thriving and ensures the arts stay vibrant and within reach for all AusArt Day is a new nationwide fundraising initiative that mobilises artists and arts organisations across Australia for a single, powerful day of giving It’s more than a fundraiser – it’s a national celebration of the role the arts play in shaping community life, creativity and connection

Mark your calendars for Thursday, October 23, and join the Fringe as they celebrate and sustain the creative heart of Castlemaine

St John’s protest

A Facebook Pagehas started tosave St John's Anglican Church in Riddells Creek. The Express reported in June the church would be sold todevelopersafter local Anglican authorities penned aletter thatapprovedits sale. They have sincerescinded this statementbut the futureof the 99-year-old building, whichstands as one of few remaining historical sites in town, remains unknown.

The Save St John's Riddells Creek Facebook pagecomes amid recentapproval for amajor housing developmentthat will likely double the town'spopulation. Pageadministrator John Ball said the site wasn't an act of faith, but rather,aproactivestep towards protecting the nature of Riddells Creek.

Help sustain the futureofthe arts scene by buying asnagonThursdayOctober 23.

Photo:Diana Domonkos

Swap meet to be big

Clarkefield Swap Meet is expected to be biggerand better than ever with 4x4 and car shows abig drawcardthis month.

Last year'sevent attracted250 show carsand 90 4x4s, as well as 120 stalls forpeople to browse, and interest for this year has only grown.

TheOctober 26 eventwill include newawardsfor vehicle entrants, plenty of stalls with all kinds of goods and children's entertainmentincluding face painting, fairy floss and ajumping castle.

Therewill also be various food and drink vendorsonsiteand, of course, the ever popular Lancefield Romsey Lions

Club barbecue.

Shannons Insurancewill awardthe trophyfor theBest Overall vehicle across the 4x4s and cars entered.

Trophies forcarswill be awarded across eightcategories: Best British, Best European, Best British, Best Japanese, Best GM,Best Ford,Best American and Best Australian.

Trophies for4x4swill be awarded across sevencategories including the newBest Flex award. Other categories areBest Mall Crawler,Best Tourer,Best Rough Rig, Best Chick's4x4, Best Modified 4x4, and 2025 Showstopper Amajor fundraiser forthe Lancefield

RomseyLions Club, this year'sevent aims to raise funds towardsthe next big community project.

Entry forcarsand 4x4s is $15 (driver only), additional passengersare $5. General entry to thegrounds is $5 and free forchildren aged under 15 years. Stall sites are$20.

Theswapmeetwill be held at Clarkefield ReserveonSundayOctober 26 from 8am to 2pm

TheClarkefield Oval is locatedat walking distancefromthe V/Line service foreasyaccess.

Forenquiries, email: LRswapmeet@hotmail.com

Be heardonBendigo Writer’sFestival

Ashort survey hasopened inviting inputintoareviewofthe BendigoWritersFestival.

Past ticketholders, past participants including authors, hosts and speakers, staff and volunteers, local businesses and community membersare encouraged to contributetothe review.

Themove followssignificantcriticism of the 2025 eventdue to acontroversial code of conduct that led to thewithdrawal of more than 50 writersand hosts.

That code of conduct asked writerstoavoid "inflammatory,divisive, or disrespectful" languageand topics,raising concerns about censorship and restrictions on freedom of expression.

City of GreaterBendigo chiefexecutiveofficer AndrewCooney said the review wasanopportunity to pause and reflect on the Festival’s15-year history

CASTLEMAINE

"The review allows us to consider whathas worked well in the past, whatcould be improvedand whatthe eventmay look likein the future,"MrCooneysaid.

"Itwill consider if the festival continues in its currentformat, if it is reimagined into adifferentformat, or if funding should be reallocatedtosupport the delivery of other literary events

"Wealso acknowledgethe 2025 festival wasnot the festival we wanted to hold, so it is an appropriate time to consider arangeof options to help us move forward."

Allviews on thevalue of the festival areimportantand feedback provided through the survey anddirect engagementwithkey stakeholderswill inform the outcome of the review.

To complete the survey,visit: letstalkgreaterbendigo.com.au/bendigowriters-festival-reviewThe survey closes Monday, October 27.

Spring Sale 20% OFF

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Take control of your health today

The GPspracticing at ourclinic arehighly trained and supported by ateam of friendly receptionistsand experienced nurses.

GP servicesinclude:

•Women’s,men’s and children’s health

•LGBTQIA+ health

•FotoFinder skin checks

•Health assessments

•Hearthealth checks

•Medical body composition analyser

•Flu and COVID-19 vaccines

•Mentalhealth

•Chronic disease management.

OPENINGHOURS

Mon –Thu: 8:00am –7:00pm Fri: 8:00am–6:00pm Sat: 9:00am –3:00pm

Outstanding Workplace

Big4 Castlemaine Gardens Holiday Park

Golden Nugget Restaurant

PJ’s Discount Tyre Service

Sustainability Hero

GoodnessFlour

Green Goes the Grocer

LikeButter

NextGen Champion

Castlemaine Circus Castlemaine Mowers &Ag

Shedshaker Brewing

Local Food Excellence

Golden Nugget Restaurant Long Paddock Cheese &The Cheese School Superhero

Bánh Mì

Mount Alexander Business Awards

2025

Community Impact

Rhythm FirstAid Tarrangower Times

TheCastlemaine Community Investment

Co-operative

Accessibility Champion

Big4 Castlemaine Gardens Holiday Park

Maldon Bakery TheatreRoyal Castlemaine

Innovation and Technology

EnviroShop Newstead

LikeButter Warral Maldon

People’s Choice

Castlemaine Community Investment Co-operative

Shedshaker Brewing TheatreRoyal Castlemaine

Thewinners will be announced at the awardsnight at BoomtownWinery &Bistro, Castlemaine on 19 November.Tickets at: www.mountalexander.vic.gov.au/BusinessAwards or scanthe QR code

Young womento broadcast

Apilotprogram is offering young women in MountAlexander Shirethe opportunityto develop apodcast to be broadcast on MainFM radio show, Femme Fortissima,which airson Fridays from 11am –1pm.

Thehands-on podcasting workshop series is tailored foryoung women, providing skills in audio storytelling, editing, interviewing and podcasting. Theprogram will culminate in participation in the local community radio station, enabling participants to sharetheir stories and perspectives with abroader audience.

Working with community broadcastersand mentors,Bridget Haylock and Elizabeth Scanlon, young women aged 16-25 will gain access to media training, platforms to express their views and pathways into creativeindustries. Thelocal community willgain access to fresh, diverse voices in media and MainFM willbenefit from youthengagementand contentdiversity Femme Fortissima host Bridget Haylock said the projecthad been designed witha strong genderinclusiveapproach.

"While it specifically targets young women to address underrepresentation in media, we also welcome non-binary participants and aremindful of creating asafe, respectfuland affirming spacefor all gender identities,"she said.

"The benefits include increased confidence, media literacy and communication skills for participants, as well as greatercommunity cohesion and cultural representation.

"Participants will develop asense of agency and belonging, while MainFM will become a moreinclusivespace."

MainFM has expressed astronginterestinsupporting and collaborating on this initiative with generous in-kind offers (studio timeand equipment) thatdemonstrategenuine community backing.

This project fostersempowermentthrough storytelling, builds local talentand strengthens regional voices, creating alasting impact on both participants –who maycontinueintoa broadcast career on MainFM –and the wider community.

ThePodcasting Pathways Workshops aresupported by acommunity grantfromthe MountAlexanderShireand arefreetoparticipants.

Workshops will run weekly from October 28 to December 9onTuesdayevenings from 6pm to 9pm at MainFM,1 HalfordStreet, Castlemaine. Formoreinformation, contact Bridget at fortissimafemme@gmail.com

Next week: health carechanges

Morgan Reinwald

Medicareservicesare settochange from next Saturday, November 1, and provide patients with improvedaccess to bulk-billed GP services.

Thelaunch of the newBulk Billing PracticeIncentiveProgram provides an additional quarterly 12.5 per cent incentivefor practices thatbulkbill all eligible services, withthe paymentsplit 50/50 between the GP and the practice. Changes also affect the Better Access initiative, with newrules formental health items and referrals.

Dr HollyLewis, ageneral practioner at Springs Medical Kyneton, said she welcomed mostofthe changes.

"Springs Medical is excited to welcome the upcoming changes to theGeneral PracticeBulk Billing Incentive. This will allowour clinic to bulk bill all Medicare

eligible consults from November 1,removing financial barrierstoaccessing quality regional primary careand preventative health treatments while remaining viable as alocally GP owned business,"she said.

Dr Lewis added, however, therewould be negativeconsequences to some of the newrules surrounding mental health services.

"Weare sorrytosee thatsomemental health consultrebateswill be lost after November 1, and with currentrebates, procedures cannotbebulk billed,"she said.

"Wehope in futuretosee further support formental health consults,longer complexhealth consults andprocedures to enable further support forour community."

Thechanges arepartofthe federal government'saim to see nine out of 10 GP visits bulk billed by 2030.

Femme Fortissima host BridgetHaylock will be one of the workshop mentors.

CCHseekscoordinator

Castlemaine CommunityHouse iscalling forexpressions of interest from passionateand community-minded individuals to help bring the 2025 CommunityChristmas Lunch to life.

Theannual Community Christmas Lunch is amuch-lovedevent thatbrings people together to sharegood food,conversation and connection on Christmas Day.It’sa celebration of inclusion, kindness and community spirit —and it takesagreat team to makeithappen.

CCHiscurrently seeking acateringand volunteer coordinator to plan and oversee the event. They’relooking fora well-organised person with experience in eventcatering and volunteer coordination, supported by relevant food safety qualifications and an understanding of workplacehealth and safety.The ideal candidate willsharethe values of Castlemaine Community House, demonstratestrong teamwork and communication skills, and ensurethe smooth, welcoming and enjoyable delivery of this special community celebration

This is arewarding opportunity to contribute to one of Castlemaine’s most meaningfulcommunitytraditions, working alongside adedicatedteam of volunteersand local supporters.

Formoreinformation or to apply,contactCastlemaine Community House at reception@cch.org.au, or visit cch.org.au/about/work-with-us

Applications close October 31, 2025.

Supportplaygroupslaunched

Intereach has launched aseries of Early Supports Playgroups across the Loddon region, including one at Gisborne.

Each playgroup,for children aged 0–6 years, offers asupportivespace whereparents can discuss concerns fortheir child’s developmentand receiveguidancefrom qualified professionals with practical strategies to support everydaylearning at home.

Intereach early childhood program manager,Natalie Grant, said the initiative reflected the organisation’s vision of strong connected communities.

“Children thrivewhen families feel supported and connected,”MsGrant said “Wewantevery parenttoknowthat support is available. Early Supports can help families build theirchild’sconfidence and skills through everydayroutines and relationships, without necessarily needing

to access the NDIS.”

Facilitatedbytrained practitionerswith input from allied healthprofessionals including speech therapists, occupational therapists and early childhood teachers— the playgroupsprovide both individual and group support in an early childhood setting.

An openday will be held at Gisborne on FridayOctober25, 10am–12pmat 71 Robertson Street (enter via Neal St). Theplaygroup will continue weekly throughout Term 4, 2025.

Families areinvited to drop in, meetthe Early Childhood team, and enjoyfun activities designed to nurturelearningthrough play.

To learn moreorregisterfor EarlySupports, call 1300 488 226 or visit www intereach.com.au/early-childhood-referralprocess

CASHFOR UNWANTEDGOLD &JEWELLERY!

Turnyour unwanted jewelleryand goldand precious items into CASH

Your Questions Answered

HOW DO IDOTHIS?

Show your items to our expertbuyers. After we havecalculated theprice based on its resale value,you can then decide to sellthem to us or just walk away witha free assessment of your jewellery!

WHY SELL?

Is it worthkeeping old jewellery that you willneverwearagain?The extracash may helpnow or in thefuture rather than unwantedjewellerysitting in your drawer!

buyall goldJewellery, Antiques & Contemporary Jewellery Diamonds, Silver Jewellery, Gold Sovereign Coins and other coins, PreciousStones,Including Broken Jewellery and Watches andunusual Items.

Talking allthings architecture

Join experiencedlocal architect and urban designer,Lisa Merkesteyn, and manager of tourism, events and culture forCentral Goldfields Shire, Rosalie Hastwell, fora free and fascinating 'Salon' on Saturday, October 25.

Theevent is part of the Association of Consulting Architects' Regional Architectureand FutureSustainability weekend,organised in partnership with Parlour (a research-based advocacy organisation that focuses on gender equity and architecture)

During the evening, Lisa and Rosalie will discuss placeand purpose, strategy and policy and

the potential of working regionally

Rosalie told the Express thatone of the things she lovedmost about local communitieswas howthe builtenvironmentcould express so muchabout wherewehad come from,aswell as providing the opportunitytoshape ashared vision forthe future.

"It'sbeen greattomeetLisa recently and discover we have lots in common as well as some differentperspectives about therole of architects, public art, heritageand community,"she said.

"Wewelcomeeveryone withaninterestin these topics to come and join us forthis free-

flowing conversation at the Castlemaine Spring Salon.

"Weare approaching this notsomuch as a scriptedlecturebut an exciting opportunity to dig down into some sticky issues and stimulate further conversationsand connections between all of those who come along on Saturday!"

Theevent will be run from 5pm to 7pmon SaturdayOctober 25 at the PheeBroadway Theatre in Castlemaine.

Formoreinformation or to RSVP,visit: parlour org.au/seasonal-salon/2025-castlemaine-salonhastwell-merkesteyn

Alively Legacy luncheon

Awonderful daywas hadbyone and all, and plenty of laughs and smiles, at the quarterly Macedon Ranges Legacy Widows Luncheon on October 3at the Riddells CreekHotel. About 40 attended, which included Legacy widows, carersand volunteers. Theseafood basket wasthe favouriteofthe day. Special thanks goes to thevolunteersfromthe local Lions Club, who provided muchneeded assistancefor those with mobilityissues.

Legacy has been in existencefor morethan100 years, dedicatedtoassisting widows/widowers and families, of the Australian DefenceForce andAllied Forces Veterans, who have served in war, peacekeeping and humanitarian missions. Legacy provides financial support to more than 30,000 veterans families, and advocates fortheir entitlements and rights. Legacy relies on a hardworking team of volunteersand is anot-for-profit organisation.

If you, or anyone you know, maybeeligible for Legacy assistance, contact Carl Schiller,chair of Macedon Ranges Legacy 0412 814 212.

‘Salon’conversationalists Lisa Merkesteynand Rosalie Hastwell.

ASKTHE E p

Q: Canyoucopy/restoreourold FamilyPhotos?

Callustoday: Chapman’sofCastlemaine Phone54705302

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Q:

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Itistrue…formanyyearsasolarbatterywas consideredtobeabitexpensive,abitcumbersome andallroundnotsuchgoodvaluebutinthelast fewmonthslotshaschanged.1.There’sanew, generousbatterysubsidythatisworthover$4000 formostofourcustomers.2.Thegovernmentisno longerpayinganythingforexcesssolargoingback tothegrid,meaningthatit’snowfarbettervalueto storeexcesssolarinabatterytorunyourhomeinto thenight.3.Batteriesarenowimmenselyreliable andarenolongerintheirinfancy.4.We(Central Spark)nowhavehundredsofinstallationexamples thatwecanshowyou,allwithsoliddatashowing consistentlygoodresultsofpeopleusingalmost zeropowerfromthegrid,evenonawinter’sday Anditgetsevenbetterinspringandsummertime!”

Callustoday: CentralSparkVictoria CastlemaineandKyneton Phone54625516 sales@central-spark.com

Inyourclaimform,youshouldavoidlisting symptomslike‘stress’or‘weightgain’; instead,identifyunderlyingconditions(e.g., mentalhealthissuesorbackinjuries).Note thatWorkCoverexcludesclaimsformental injuriesfromreasonablemanagement actions,andbothschemesmaynotcover certaintreatmentsorrecognise‘headaches’ forpermanentimpairmentclaims.Asboth schemeshavespecificdefinitionsof‘injury’, youshouldconsultalawyeratGraingerLegal beforelodgingaWorkCoverorTACclaimso thatyouaccuratelydescribeyourinjuries.

CallCarolineGraingerat: GraingerLegal Castlemaine|Sunbury|BacchusMarsh Phone54070161 www.graingerlegal.com.au

Q: Whyisitimportanttoreviewyour HomeInsurancepolicyeveryyear.

A: Whilstitisunlikelythatthephysicalnatureof yourHomehaschangedfromyeartoyear;in today’seconomicenvironmentthecostto re-build/replacehascertainlychanged! Thekeyprincipleofhavinginsuranceis“to bereturnedtothesamesituationthatyou werein,priortotheloss”.Ifyourproperty orpersonalpossessionsaren’tadequately insuredforreplacementvalue,youmaynot beabletoreplacewhatyouhadattimeof losswhichcanbedevastating.Thatiswhyitis alwaysimportanttoinsureyourassetsfortheir fullreplacementvalue.

TheadviceprovidedisGeneralinNature–ForPersonalAdvicepleasecontactyourInsuranceBroker

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WorldKangarooDay prizegiveaway

ForWorld Kangaroo Day on October 24, local wildlifecarersNikki and Scott Medwell of RedBox WildlifeShelter at Elphinstone areonceagain celebrating the Australian icon witha special prize giveaway.

Express readerscan win aprizepack from ourfriends at RedBox WildlifeShelter, which includes abeautiful canvasby photographer Tamara Kenneally and two wildlifeassistancekits foryour car

Thelocal couple’s mission is to rescue, rehabilitate,raise and release the roos that come into their care, along with teaching compassion forkangaroos.

Nikki and Scotthavealso createdthe free online ‘MrBoo’s RooRangers’ program and educational resourcesaround the theme of their first rescue– their much-

loved‘Mr Boo’ –and aim to increase knowledgeand awareness about the native animals theyhavecome to knowasgentle social creaturesthattravelinclose-knit family groups. With programs aimed at Kinder,Junior, Primary and Adults thereissomething to suit animalloversofall ages. Find out moreatwww.kangaroorangers. com

To enterthe World Kangaroo Day competition just write‘World Kangaroo DayPrize’,yourname, address and contact number on an envelope and post it to us at 3Market Street,Kyneton3444 or 13 Hargraves Street,Castlemaine 3450 or drop it under the door at ouroffices. Entries close on FridayOctober 31 and the winner will be notified by phone.

Reel in agrant

Fishing clubs and associations have the chancetoreel in funding grants to help improve their facilities and attract newmembers.

Applications arenow open forthe 2025/26 roundofthe Stronger Fishing Clubs Grant Program, closing November 30.

To learn more, and to apply,visit: vfa.vic.gov.au/strongerfishingclubs

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Castlemaine Toyota and Castlemaine Mitsubishi officially opened the doorstotheir brand-newstate-of-the-art dealerships at 371 and 375 Barker Street on October 6.

Thelocal community has been watching with interest as the former Castlemaine Toyota sitewas demolished and redeveloped to pave the wayfor an exciting new erafor the twolocal businesses, which are nowconveniently locatedonone siteatthe entrancetoCastlemaine.

Castlemaine Toyota branch manager Leon Yeates said theywerethrilled with the final result.

"BothCastlemaine Toyota and Castlemaine Mitsubishi nowboast fabulous new showrooms, including comfortable new customer lounges, an expanded workshop spacethatcan caterfor up to eightvehicles at anyone time, extended newand used car displayareas and moreoff-streetcustomer parking,"hesaid.

"Castlemaine Toyota and Castlemaine Mitsubishi sales teams areonhand from 8.30am to 5.30pm MondaytoFridayand we aredelightedtoannounceweare now open extended hoursonSaturdayfrom9am to 4pm, providing even moreopportunities forlocalstocome in and viewour extensiverangeofvehicles, take atest driveand discover your next vehicle."

Castlemaine Toyota has access to more than 100 newcarsinstock and 120 used carstochoose from with everything from thatideal first car to theperfect family car, farm and fleetvehicles and everything in between.

"Our serviceand parts teams areonhand 8.30am to 5pm MondaytoThursdayand 7am to 3pm Fridayand we have ahighly experienced team, including adiagnostic master technician at our disposal,"Leon said. In fact, thenew facilities will soon enable

the team to offer'Express Toyota Maintenance' –whereyourvehicle is serviced while youwait and enjoya barista-style coffee and takeadvantageofthe free Wifi.

Marketing manager Gabrielle Richards said Castlemaine Toyota and Castlemaine Mitsubishi were proud to employ25local people and the redevelopmentsignalled thatthe businesses were committedtothe Castlemaine district communityfor thelong term.

Oursister in Japan

Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil has an official partnership with Tokai City in Japan with an aim to promote cross-cultural activities.

Thesister city recently celebrated their 55th anniversary and MRSC mayorDom Bonanno senta commemorativegift on behalf of the Shire, which is currently on displayin Tokai City Hall

Tokai mayorKatsushige Hanada responded with the message, "I wish everyone in the Macedon Ranges good health and happiness".Other initiatives have included astudentexchangeprogram with Braemar Collegeand seen artworks by local artists shared on display in each otherslocal governments buildings.

Two iconic one new

Twoiconic brands, onenew location

"Weare proud to giveback to thecommunity thatsupports us –fromlocal footy, golf and bowls clubs across the region, to supporting the artscommunity, the Business Awards and the annual Rotary Truck Show each year.Wealso takepart in initiatives such as the Toyota Good forFooty and Good forCricket programs. Giving back and aiming to be acornerstone of this communityisatthe heart of whatwedo," shesaid.

"Weare also looking forwardtohosting the Meet the Finalists networking eventfor the 2025 MountAlexander ShireBusiness Awards on October 29 and welcoming local business peopleintoour newspace,"Gabe said. Looking to sell,trade or buy anew vehicle?

Call in and chattothe friendlyteams at Castlemaine Toyota and Castlemaine Mitsubishi today!

The teams at Castlemaine Toyota and Castlemaine Mitsubishi are thrilled to welcome the public to their brand new dealerships

Themanybenefits of lifting weights

Strength training isn’t just aboutbuilding muscle—lifting heavy weights can also improve mood, sharpen themind and enhanceoverall wellbeing.

At Real Strength in Castlemaine, members experience thesebenefitsalongside something equally important: genuine social connection. Many join to lift heavier,get stronger and improve their fitness, but theystayfor thecombination of physical results and thesupportive community thatnaturally develops.

Regular attendees report feeling fitter,moreconfidentand morecapable in daily life. Lifting weights has been shown to help managesymptoms of anxiety and depression, offering asense of accomplishmentand controlthatpositively impacts mental health. Meanwhile, friendships formed at Real Strength oftenextend beyond the gym —memberscheck in on each other,carpool to appointments and socialise outside classes

Forretirees and older adults, this connection is especially valuable. Loneliness is linked to poorer health outcomes, while meaningful social interaction is associatedwith longer lifeand ahigher quality of life. Real Strength provides aspacewherestrength, friendship and wellbeing come together,addressing both physical and mental healthinone place.

If youare curious to learn more, Real Strength offers free membership consultations via their website: www.realstrengthstudio.com.

Book your free membership consultation and studio tour via www.realstrengthstudio.com.au Join

•Build

•Improvebone density

•Boostmobility &balance

•Feel confident and capable

Small groups. Supportivecoaches. Suitable forall levels –evencomplete

Coeliac disease affects aboutone in 70 people in Australia, but only 20 per cent or one in fivehavebeendiagnosed. This means there maybepeopleinthe community whohavethis autoimmune condition but arenot awaretheyhaveit.

Dietitian LeeMason says the symptoms can be fatigue, lowironlevels, arangeof gastric symptoms, allergy likereactions such as hives, as well as askin condition called dermatitis herpetiformis.

"Ignoring these symptomscan lead to nutritional deficiencies, osteoporosis, and an increased risk forcertain cancers,"Lee says

"Coeliac disease is genetically linked. If youhavefamily memberswithcoeliac disease youhaveahigher likelihood of developing this condition,and it candevelop at anyage."

Leesaysglutenintoleranceornon coeliac glutensensitivity can have very similar symptoms.

"The differenceisthatthis is thoughtto morelikea chemical sensitivity and does notcause inflammation and damageto the small intestine thatisseen in coeliac disease,"she says

Thereisnospecific test fornon coeliac

Coeliacdiseaseand gluten intolerance–areyou confused?

gluten sensitivity. Thebest idea is to discuss this with your doctor

Thereare tests that canbedone to identify coeliac disease. These areblood tests to identifyglutensensitivity and also the GP can test youfor theHLA DQ genes. If these tests arepositivethe GP will recommend agastroscope to takea sample of your small intestine. This is to assess if thereisdamagetothe nutrient absorbing fingerlikeprojections called villi. What if the testsare negativeand Istill getthe symptoms?

Youmay have non coeliacgluten sensitivity

Thetreatmentfor both conditions is thatsameand thatistoavoid gluten.

Gluten is in wheatrye triticale and barley. Be awarethatwheatfreeoatsare generally well tolerated by people with coeliac disease. Asmall percentage(less than 10 per cent)ofpeople withcoeliac disease react to oats.

Thebest option is to discuss your issues and symptoms with your dietitian as theycan help youunderstand and navigate thecomplexities of avoiding gluten.

LeeMason is adirector at AliveNutrition. Seeadvert on facingpagefor details.

Dissolving barriers between mind and body

Qigong (energy work) andtai chi chuan (supreme ultimate fist) both from AncientChina,are energy practices for transforming stress into vitality,and fragility into strength. They work on dissolving barriersbetween: mind and body,head and heart, inner and outer, to be in harmonywith theenergy that connects everything.

Sifu Andy Green has practised tai chi andqigong for46years,and most recently taughtatWoodfordFolkFestival.

He is amember of TheAustralian Wushu association. Formallya lecturer at Southern School of Naturopathyin Melbourne, he is deeply committed to teaching tai chi and other meditative martial arts formsfor wellbeing. He is also acommunity mental health practioner and is awriter of philosophy. His firstbook published by Littlefoxin2021 is Being, Experiencing aNuminous Reality Seeadvert belowfor contactdetails.

Tai Chi Chuan began in China in the 14th centuryADwith Chang Seng Feng awandering Taoist monk. It developed as an internal martial art focussing on cultivating inner energy, ‘chi’ following the flowofnature or ‘water-course way’.The health benefits of Tai Chi &Qigong are well attested (ReliefofJoint stiffness, arthritis, blood pressure, increase of bone density, balance), and equally stress management, and calming and aligning one’s spirit.

Classes are friendly, open and acccessible

10.30 -11.30am

Let’stalk HEALTH +

Meet thepractitioners

At 29Twentynine CollaborativeAlliedHealth, you’ll find morethan practitioners— you’ll find acommunity.

They’reacollectiveofindependentallied and complementary health practitioners, working together to support your health and wellbeing.

Locatedat29High Street,Kyneton, theybring independentexpertstogether under one roof —offering adiverse rangeofservices, each shaped by genuine care, collaboration and respect foryour journey.

Here aretwo of the friendlyfaces you’ll find there.

Rene Spence– Counselling

Thenewest member of the team at TwentyNine is Rene Spence,aregistered counsellor with the Australian Counselling Association.

He works withclients facing awide rangeofchallenges and issues, including anxiety,depression, stress management, griefand loss, and relationship concerns.

He hasa keen interest in lifetransitions, the trickyand sticky bits, helping others unpacktheir unique experiencesand make sense of their story thus far. He canassist youinnavigating ‘transformativeexperiences’such as becoming aparentor losing one.

Midlife, in particular,can oftenbedifficult, with manyemerging questions of “why?” and “what if?”Heispassionate about celebrating the ephemeral nature of life and aims to help othersharness the opportunitywithin challenge, moving towardswholeness and fulfilment.

Rene’s Masters-leveleducation, decades of working with people and warm personality inform an approach rooted in empathy and connection. He uses techniques from various counselling methods tailored specifically to each person’s currentpresentation and lived Experience.

Youcan reach him at www.renespencecounselling.com.au

Lisa Joy Stewart –Naturopath and Nutritionist

Lisa is adegree-qualified naturopath and nutritionist consulting from TwentyNine on Tuesdays andWednesdays,aswell as via TeleHealth. With her empathetic approach, Lisa guides and educatespatients through evidence-based care, helping yougain body awareness, understand your symptoms, and implementpositive changes to restorebalanceand vitality

Lisa recognises thateachpatienthas a unique health history.Through in-depth case taking and testing, she builds aclear pictureofthe factorsinfluencing your wellbeing. Sheoften collaborates with your other healthcareproviders to ensurean integrated approach. Hertreatments combine lifestyle guidance, dietary strategies, nutritional support and herbal medicine foroptimal, sustainable outcomes. Lisa regularly supports patients with hormonal balance, gut health, nervous system regulation, mental wellbeing and immune resilience. Shetakes aholistic approach to complexhealth conditions, working to uncoverrootcauses and guide the body back into balance. Lisa enjoys working with individuals and families, empowering them to create apositive, sustainable path to wellness. Formoreinformation visit: www.lisajoystewart.com

•LifeProgram(DiabetesVictoria)

•FallsandBalanceProgram

•OsteoporosisPreventionProgram(Onero)

•PreemploymentandErgonomic Assessments

ACEAlliedHealth is encouraging local residents to register forthe next intakeoftheir LIFE! programled by experienced clinical exercise physiologist ClareBerto.

Claresaidthe LIFE!program wasfreeasitwas fully funded by the stategovernment.

"The programhas astrongfocus on theprevention of diabetes, heart disease and stroke,"Claresaid.

"Clients can self-refer through the Life! websiteby completing arisk assessmentquestionnaire, theycan be referred by their doctor or allied health professional, be referred in-house by one of our dietitian or physiotherapists, or simply call in and enquireabout our next intake.

"Participants complete an initial individual assessment form, which provides their baseline data.

"Theythen join agroup to take part in sevensessions focusing on topics suchaseating healthymeals, increasing your physical activity, enhancing your mood and sleep, managing and reducing stress, overcoming setbacks, setting and achieving personal health goals.

"Thereissomuchinformation out thereabout leading ahealthyand balanced lifestyle and it can be daunting. TheLife! programbreaksdownand targets specific areas and encourages participants to makesmall, sustainable lifestyle changes which canhaveabig impact,"Clare said.

"Wemeetupinsix months fora catch up to gaugewhat'sworking, whatisn't, and enable participants to sharepositives and refocusonareas they need to work on.

"Finally,wereconvene after12months to assess overall outcomes. We usually encourageparticipants to have another blood test at this time to assess their blood glucose and cholesterol. Many participants arealso eligible forfiveAlliedHealth sessions ayear through Medicare, so theymay wish to utilise these to undertakemoretargetedindividual work withmyself or our dietitian and build on their LIFE! goals.

"I'vehad 17 groupsand 150clients completethe LIFE!program overthe last couple of yearsand it's so rewarding to seepeople smashing their goalsand living healthier and happier lives as aresult,"Clare said

To learn moreabout theLIFE! program contact AceAlliedHealth today.

Make small, sustainable changes

Discover something unforgettable

Budburst is back foranother fabulousweekend. Taking placeSaturdayand Sunday, November 15 and 16, this is your once-a-year opportunity to go beyond the cellar door,sip rare wines youwon’t findanywhereelse, and meetthe passionate people who craftsome of Australia’s most exciting cool-climate wines. At Budburst, youdon’t just taste wine…you wander.You wonder.You geta little lost and youdiscoversomething rare and unforgettable.

Over twofestival days,morethan 20 winemakersacross 15+ Budburstvenueswill open their doorstooffer wine tastings, varied food and entertainment offerings, while sharing their stories. From established icons to hidden gems, Budburst is all about connection –between the makers, the wines, and you.

Festival hoursrun from 10am to 5pm each day, with tastings, curated food menus and the chancetochatdirectly with the winemakersatevery stop.

WINERYOFFERINGS

With so manywineries to choose from thereisa wide rangeoffood, music and art offerings to serveasperfect enhancements to your discovery of the Ranges. From local vendors, to winery and estate-grownproduce– discover quality bites and musical delights, getting lost in amagical weekend in the vines.

TICKETS

Festival passes start from $39 and weekend passes only $52! Ticketsinclude:

●AkeepsakePlumm crystal Macedon Ranges wine glass

●Afestival passport with all the details youneedtotruly discover Budburst

●Wine tastings across participating wineries

Designateddriversand children under 18 areinvited to join the festival for free.

Formoreinformation about thefestival and to book, visit budburst.com, your one-stop shop forplanning your weekend.

TRANSPORTOPTIONS

Leavethe driving to someoneelseand jump on oneofthe hop-on/hop-off Budburst Weekend bus routes. On Saturday, Budburst buses will taketicket holdersdirectly to cellar doorsaround theMacedon Ranges, allowing youto visit up to fiveBudburst venues, withsix-plus wineries on each loop. On Sunday, alimited bus servicewill operate. Ticketsare $105 fora combined bus ticket and weekend festival pass. Alternatively,Budburst has partnered withKimcoto offera moretailored option forthe budding explorer.Ifyou prefer to plan your ownadventure, anumber of suggested self-driveitineraries areavailable on the festival website.

Oneofa kind dolls

Local artist, Jahne Hope-Williams, known forher eccentric paintings, yoga practiceand blind tarot decks, has been busycreating one-of-a-kind art dolls.

"Each doll is an individual, and I oftenstand back and wonder who did makethem as theyalmost come to me fully formed,"Jahne says "I am just bringing them to life, every one of them has apersonality, astory

"Each doll is an individual, dressed with modernand prelovedvintage fabrics and trims –definitely items thatwould be given to achild –more likesoftsculptures foradults.”

Doll making is notall Jahne does. To see her drawings as well go to the Mt Macedon Gallery.www.morrisroadstudio.etsy.com

Discover the Kyneton RSL

On SundayOctober 26, the KynetonRSL isthrowing open its doorstothe public foran information day.

Go along and enjoya free sausagesizzle and activity bags forthe kids. Meet the committee membersand veterans, viewthe memorabilia collection and WWII vintagevehicles. Other groupstaking part include the AirForce Cadets, Scouts, Legacy,Pathofthe Horse, Kyneton Food Bank and Men’sShed. Find out whatyour local RSLdoesfor veterans and the community COMMEMORATIONS

On October 31, 1917, as daylightfaded across the NegevDesert, Australian Light HorseDivisions securedthe town of Beersheba, bringing to aclose acrucial battle in the Sinai PalestineCampaign of World WarOne

Decisivevictory at Beersheba fell to one of the last greatchargesofmounted troops in history.AsAustralian LightHorse Divisions captured the town and secured crucial water wells, their success also marked the beginning of the end of the warinthe Middle East. This

end cameexactly ayear to theday aftersuccess at Beersheba.

On FridayOctober 31, the KynetonRSL will commemorateBeersheba Day with aceremony at the LightHorse MonumentinJennings Street at 10.30am.

At 11am on November 11, 1918 the guns on the Western FrontinEurope fell silent after morethan four yearscontinuous warfare. The 11th hourofthe 11th dayofthe 11thmonth becameuniversally associatedwith the remembranceofthose who had died in the war.

This year marks the107th anniversary of the end of World WarI andtohonour those people of Kynetonwho died in all wars,the KynetonRSL will conduct aceremonyatthe CenotaphinKynetononMondayNovember 11 commencing at about10.45am. During the ceremony, therewill wreath-laying and anyone who wishes to laya wreath or floral tribute is welcome to do so.

Allare welcome to attend both ceremonies. Enquiries to theKynetonRSL.

On Sunday26th October from 2pm to 5pm.

Meet our Veterans and Committee Members and see howyou canget involved.

Free sausage sizzle, tea&coffee station, kids activity bags, vintage military vehicles and memorabilia displays Meet localgroups including Scouts, Air Cadets, Path of the Horse [equine assistedtherapy] and Legacy

Thinking about volunteering? Let's chat! Everyone's welcome -come and be part of our RSL Community. Forfurther information contact the KynetonRSL on 5422 6735

Wreaths will belaid at the KynetonCenotaph on November 11.

At Budburst, youdon’t just tastewine…you wander.You wonder.You

ASong andDancefor Safe Space

Enjoya song anddanceonFriday, October 24 at 7.30pm and help raise funds for Castlemaine Safe Space.

Music on the eveningwill be provided by the BobWills Poor Relations band with catchy,danceable tunes, and TheSweet Patooties, an engaging and humorous group of very vocally talentedladies!

Bob Wills Poor Relations is agenrebending collectiveof musicians doing an eclectic mix of western swing, jazz standards, Fats Waller tunes, Latin and eventhe odd Hawaiian number

Piano or piano accordion, bass, guitar, sax or clarinet, plus themellifluous crooning vocals of Wallace White.

TheHot Patooties will entertain you withaudacious lyricsabout life, love,loss and lunch; and unique feminist twists on songs from the 1920s tothe 40s and beyond.

Adelicious supper including many homemade goodieswill be provided and of course, therewill be araffle! Teaand coffee areontap, butBYO drinks.

Thevenue is theCampbellsCreek Community Centre –soplenty of room for dancing (and parking!).

Afun-filled eventispromised, while doing something good forthe community. Funds raised from this eventwill help Safe

Space'keep the showonthe road', providing support foranyone feeling isolated, suicidal, who needs somecompanyor needs aquietplace to sitand relax.

HighStreet shines this

Saturday at Lancefield

TheMacedon Ranges original farmersmarketisback on this Saturdaywith another diverse spread of local and regional produce, held along the the historic centre plantation of High Street Lancefield.

Shopperscan select from 85 producer stalls featuring fresh fruits and vegetables, regeneratively produced meats and eggs, internationally acclaimed dairy, multiaward winningpreserves, rawhoney, cool climate wines, Lancefield beers, paddock to bottle spirits, sourdough bakery items, takehome meals, treats, fresh cut flowers,healthcareand home products, seedlings, natives and garden plants, livepoultry,stockfeed, traditional foodsand more!

Enthusiastic consumersattending the market areencouraged to park at the west end (Post Office)with an Esky to pop their meat, dairy and fresh items into Livemusic, plentyoflunch options and free facepaintfor the kids from Pass-theParcel in the centre of the Western Plantation.

Communitygroups attending the market this month include local CFAbrigades bringing youbushfirepreparation information, landcare/Wildlifefor Gardens/ Macedon Ranges WildlifeNetwork –celebrating wildlifemonth, Lancefield Historical Society,Greater Western Water, andRotary International is manning thecommunitybarbecuethismonth.

Themarket is encouraging people to consider joining the Wash Against Waste project –this is your opportunity to makenew friends, contributetoremoving wastefromthe market activities and in doing so, contributetoa better environmentfor futuregenerations.

To getinvolved, phone or sms Meggs, market manager,on0493 452 757.

Ticketscost $15 concession and $25 full price.

Forbookings go to:www.trybooking. com/DFTTGand follow Castlemaine Safe

SpaceonFacebook and Insta forupdates. Formoreinformation on whatSafe Spaceoffersand opening hours, go to: www.castlemainesafespace.org

ARTDOLLS

Ihand make dolls (and other artworks) at my studio, and exhibit them permanently at Mt. Macedon Gallery,and in various exhibitions around the shire There are seasonal collections –all are heirlooms. www.morrisroadstudio.etsy.com yogafirst2@bigpond.com

This Saturday, October 25 Lancefield &District

9amto1pm

TheMacedon Ranges original farmers market is back, bringing youadivine local produceselection to nourish and delight! Thank youfor your investment in local food and farming production.

FollowusonFacebook and Instagram High Street, Lancefield Ph: Meggs 0493452 757

TheSweet Patooties have performed gigs at venues across Castlemaine, plus the Castlemaine Fringeand Jazz festivals,fundraisers, celebrations and parties.

Tadhgh Knaggs, Knagwood Black Garlic, Kyneton

Photo: Deano O'Callaghan Good Brew Co

Green waste be gone

Macedon Ranges residents can takeadvantageofa free green wastedisposal week from Monday October 27 to SundayNovember 2.

Residents can leave green waste at Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil’sresource recovery facilities at Kyneton, Romsey or Woodend.

Only residential loads areaccepted, and residents canvisit as manytimes as needed. Free selfloaded mulchisalso available to help with garden maintenance.

MayorDom Bonanno said preparing your property forsummer wasn’t just about keeping your garden tidy: it wasa crucial part of reducing firerisk.

"Summer in the Macedon Ranges comeswiththe risk of fire. Taking small steps now, like using our green wastefacilities, makes a big differenceinkeeping everyone safe," he added.

Thefreegreen wasteweek programprovidesaneasy, safe waytoremove excess vegetation and reducepotential fuel loads on properties.

Additionally,residents can also use council’sfreegreen waste drop-off voucher anytime within the financial year

Thecouncil encourages all residents to usethisopportunityas part of broader bushfirepreparation, which includes clearing gutters, trimming trees, removing woody weeds and creating or reviewing afireplan.

Formoreinformation, visit: mrsc.vic.gov.au/green-wasteand mrsc.vic.gov.au/fire-ready

Callingall naturalists Calling all naturalist

Theannual GreatSouthern Bioblitz is again being hosted by Castlemaine Field Naturalists Club, with this year’sevent running from October 24 to 27.

Citizen scientists from across the Southern Hemispherewill be using iNaturalist to participate in this GreatSouthern Bioblitz 2025.

Photographs and audio recordings aresubmitted to documentall wildlifeforms, including plants, animals and fungi, with birds always being of particular interest.

Castlemaine Field Naturalists member Cathrine Harboe-Ree said it had been ahard year forCountry sincethe last GreatSouthern Bioblitz in October 2024.

With relentless months of droughtconditions and no autumnbreak,the isolateddays of drenching rain in mid-June were toolatefor manyspecies.

"Walking familiar paths showedseverely depleted vegatation, with rushes and dianellas, ground covers andherbaceceous plants chewedtothe ground by herbivores. Theabsenceparticularly of insect numbers has been truly disturbing,"Cathrine said.

"Thankfully September hasfinally brought some rains, withgrowth and some return of animals and insects. Fingerscrossed forthe Bioblitz as well!"

TheBioblitz is notjust the dallianceofgenteel humans enjoying natureand exercise.

It is acoordinatedeffort to gather critical information needed by scientists to better understand the complexintertwined ecosystems of plants,creatures andother lifeforms, and the roleseachofthem playinsustaining the habitats in which we alllive.

You, too, have achancetoplayyour part during the four days andnights of the Bioblitz. Join the field naturalists to help showcase all the amazing forms of wildlife living in our own Castlemaine region and help build thescientific databases thatincrease knowledgeand

understanding of our bushlands. These annual Bioblitz surveyscollect vast amountsofdata on species and distribution thatwould otherwise be unavailable.

To join the fun takephotographs or make sound recordings of flora, fauna, fungi etc between midnightOctober 24 and midnight October 27, 2025. Youthen have until November 10 to upload them to iNaturalistfrom your phone app or computer iNaturalist is aglobal databank forobservations of biodiversity made by scientists, naturalists and citizen scientists.

Skilled naturalists, scientists and other citizen scientists will then help identify your observations.

"Don’t forget your home gardens can be

importanthabitat,"Cathrine said.

"Havesomefun with 'Moths at Home'. At dusk turn on an outside lightwhereitshines on ablank wall. Periodically through the evening go outside and inspect the wall and record whateverispresent.

"Keep going until bedtime. Differentmoths will come outatdifferenttimes. Take closeup photosifpossible –use abrighttorch to provide additional lighting or use atelephoto and flash on the camera. Thetelephoto lets youstand further back so the subject is not obscuredbythe shadowfromthe lens."

Visit theclub websitefor tips on using iNaturalist and information on previous Bioblitzes at castlemainefieldnaturalists.org. au/great-southern-bioblitz

Celebrating 12 years

TheMetcalfecommunity is celebrating 12 yearssincethe MetcalfeCommunityAssociation wasestablished to support and representlocal people and issues.

Although the Metcalfepopulation is small, residents welcome and help each other through avery active CFA, landcaregroup, and tennis club. Theold ShireHall is available for hireand managed by local volunteers.

Funds raised aredistributedtoMetcalfesupport groups.

TheMCA’s AGMwill be held on WednesdayOctober29inthe ShireHall at 7.30pm. All Metcalfians will be most welcome.

Contact MaxLomas forfurther details at email: jeff.lomas@outlook.com

OurHealthand Wellbeingmagazinewill providereaderswitha comprehensiveguide tolocalhealthcare providers.

Exploringtopicssuch asnutrition,mental health,dentalcare, physiotherapy, occupationaltherapy andmore,thisisyour chancetoengagewith thecommunityandhave yourhealthcaremessage beheard!

Bookingdeadline:FridayOct31,2025|Published:FridayNov28,2025

ContactLyndaBrew & 54721788orKerrieGleeson & 54221488

oremail:lbrew@midnews.com.au kgleeson@midnews.com.au

A hooded caladenia, photographed near Fryerstown

Photo: Cathrine Harboe-Ree

Reflecting Maldon’s culture

TheMaldon communityisbeing invited to help select the final artwork forthe town’s newcommunity battery,which will help support greaterlevelsofrooftop solar

Powercor has partnered with DjaDja Wurrung artist DaikotaNelson, who has developed twoart concepts reflecting Maldon’s culture,communityand connection to Country Households across Maldon have embraced renewable energy –morethan 600 homes have installed solar panels, or about 50 per cent of dwellings.

That’s whyin2022, the Labor Governmentcommitted to delivering aCommu-

nity Battery to Maldon.

This project is being delivered through the Community Batteries forHousehold Solar Programand is one of 400 batteries thatwill provide shared storagefor households across Australia. Following consultation with residents and theMountAlexander ShireCouncil, electricity distributor Powercor is installing the Maldon community battery on Adair Street,opposite the Maldon Hospital.

Powercor has also been working closely with the MountAlexander ShireCouncil to ensurethe final design choices meets local heritageguidelines.

RSVprotection extended

TheVictorian Governmenthas committed $8 million to provide thousands of doses of the long-acting monoclonal antibody,nirsevimab, to protect newborns and eligible infantsfrom RespiratorySyncytial Virus next winter.

During the 2025 RSVseason, morethan30,000 doses of nirsevimab were distributed seeing cases fall from 4731 in 2024 to 3770 in 2025.

TheVictorian infant program will again run from April to September 2026, offering free RSVprotection fornewborns whose mothersdid notreceivethe maternal vaccine dose at least twoweeks before giving birth, or those who have additional risk factorsfor severe RSV disease.

Once installed, the battery is about the sizeofa smallcar and will be paintedwith an artwork to reflect Maldon’s strong cultural and environmental connections.

Howtovote: Online rightnow at www powercor.com.au/maldon or call 13 22 06 to have the artwork options delivered to a letterbox.

Artwork voting closes October 26, with the final design to be announced in November

Powercor willbegin installing the battery laterthis year,with thebattery expected to be operating by the end of 2025.

Children’s mural fun

Woodend Neighbourhood House is celebrating Children's Week with twofreemural project workshops on Thursday, October 23. Children in prep to grade six areinvited to come together to design and painta vibrant mural thathighlights essential children’s rights, such as the righttoplay, learn and be heard.

Theworkshops will be led by CreativeMe and all materials will be provided. Bookings forthis free activity can be made forprepto grade two, via: socialplanet.com.au/activity/ view?id=41498 or forgrade three to six, via: socialplanet.com.au/activity/view?id=41503

This Children’s Week eventispresented by the Woodend Neighbourhood Housein partnership withthe Victorian Government.

Lisa ChestersMPand Powercor Australia with the twodesign choices.

@ YourOPINIONS

Whydoeseverything have to turn aprofit?

TimothyCole, Welshmans Reef

Thank youMountAlexander WildlifeWatch –very educational article ('Let’s protect our kangaroos', Midland Express,October 14). My question is this –why does everything have to turnaprofit? This is the problem with governmentand hunters Can’t theyappreciate naturalbeauty forwhatitis? Regarding wildlifepopulations, afterovera decade of economic mismanagementand clear inability to count, howcan anyone believe what this governmentsays? My three-year-old can count better.She also has the abilitytovalue things over just monetarygains. Perhaps it’s because she’s not trying to payoff aunion foravoteand she is growing up in alead-free environment. (Wedon’t allow her to eatlead-poisoned meatbecause it’snot good fora child’sintelligence).Ofcourse kangaroos areanimportantpartofour landscape and should be protected as priority

Could koalas be introduced?

Richard Cantwell, Gisborne

This week and fora month thereisanoperation to ridMacedon Ranges National Park of unwanted and feraldeer

TheWar Memorial Cross Reserveand Topof the RangeTea Roomsare behind fencing barriers while work is done to bring back atea room that wasoncea popular eatery forqualityfood and a viewoverthe northern valley. TheKurana display is also inaccessible. Major Mitchell lookout is also closed.

Thereare kangaroos and wallabies in the Macedon Regional Park, however, to access the park from MountMacedon Road,the short dis-

Local knowledge (1 point)

1. PamAhern wasinducted into whatat this year’sRoyal Melbourne Show?

2. When will this year’sKynetonAgricultural Show be held over twodays?

3. To where has mass murderer Julian Knightbeen relocated?

4. Whereinthe Macedon Ranges will Parks Victoria conduct itsdeer control programactivities over fivedaysinOctober to November? (3 points)

5. Which Macedon Ranges skatepark is nowundergoing amajor upgrade following 11 yearsofcommunity campaigning?

General knowledge (1 point)

6. Whoisthe currentpope, head of the Catholic church?

7. In which ocean would youfind the Falkland Islands?

8. What is the defining botanical ingredientingin?

9. WhostarsasBob Ferguson in the 2025 film OneBattle AfterAnother? (3 points)

10. Whereinthe world would youfind RialtoBridgeand St Mark’sBasilica?

tancetoDaysPicnic Ground via Lions Head Road or BarringoRoad to Sanatorium Picnic Ground, the road is potholed and hasn't been repaired for manymonths.

Thereare plenty of manna gums (eucalyptus viminalis)through theNational Park favourable to the tasteofkoalaswho arefound at nearbyHanging Rock howevertheyare neverseen. Could atrial of koalas free of the disease chlamydia be introduced to thepark as an attraction and as amethod of preserving and increasing the numbers of these popular marsupials?

Muchappreciated

Lisa and Fernando the kelpie, Castlemaine

Iamwriting to congratulate the KynetonDog ObedienceClub on their recent 40th anniversary This volunteer-run organisation provides affordable and excellentdog training, in afriendly and supportiveenvironment.

Thepatience, knowledgeand sense of humour of the trainersismuch appreciated, and it'swonderful to be in an environmentwheredogsofall shapes, sizes and temperaments arewelcome.

Totaldisregard

John Mitchell,Kyneton

Thecouncil decision to closethe toilets adjacent to Duck Duck GooseinPiper Street,Kyneton, is appalling, and demonstrates yetagain the Shire’stotal disregardfor tourists to our town.

Rather than close the facilities, the council should have kept them open and properly sign posted them. Sadly,the Shireisshowing its total disregardfor one of the Macedon Ranges best and most visited tourist attractions –Piper Street

Call to reconsider toiletclosure

KynetonLabor Branch has joined the call forMacedon Ranges Shire Council to reconsider its decision to closepublic toilets on Piper Street

Thecouncil announced closureoftoilets on the corner of Piperand Ebden streets Kyneton, nearbythe former Duck Duck Gooseand Larder, last month.

Thetoilets have long served the busyPiper Street thatisatourist attraction forshopping and dining opportunities, butthe council said the increased cost to keep them open wasnot sustainable.

Business ownersand residents have called forthe council to justify its actions and reconsider the move.Atits September meeting, Kyneton Labor Branchunanimously votedtowritethe council in supportofthe toilets being reopened.

"The council'sinitial announcementofclosurehas createdwide dismaywithin the Kynetoncommunity,"their letter stated.

"The PiperStreetprecinct in Kynetonisthe shire'spremier tourist attraction.

"Itisdisturbing thatthe council cares so little forthe commercial wellbeing of businesses and thecomfort of locals and visitorsseeking to experience theopportunities and ambienceoffered by this uniquestreet.

"Visitors in PiperStreetneeding to leave the street to find an obscure toiletacrossmanyroadswill be rightly dismayed that thecouncil has not ensured thatapublic toiletisavailable forthem in that precinct."

Last month, MRSC director of assets and operations Dominic Testoni acknowledged disappointmentoverthe council'sdecision to the close the PiperStreettoilets buttold the Express it "was adecision nottaken lightly"

He said the public toiletarrangement forPiper Street wasunique and the arrangementwas no longer sustainable due to significantlease cost increases.

This lease wasunder consideration prior to the adjoining business suddenly closing, which the council wasmade awareofearlier this year

Mr Testoni said consideration wasgiven to best use of ratepayerfunds and availability of five alternativepublic toilets nearby. He said toilets within 500 metres arelocated at Hutton Street andatKynetonShowgrounds.

More recently,the councilopened toilets at the KynetonMuseum for the KynetonFarmersMarketweekend on October 10-12, however, businesses have reported notbeing awareofthe move

Mr Testoni told the Express thatMRSC'sdecision didd notprevent the Piper Street toilets from being reopened in thefuturefor privateuse,if currentlandownersorfuture businesses chose to do so.

Hear sixpeaks

Newham and District Landcare Groupishosting afreepresentation by Honorary Professor BarryGolding AM on November 7inthe Newham Hall

Professor Golding will reference his recently published book, SixPeaks Speak –Unsettling Legacies in Southern DjaDja Wurrung Country,co-written withgeologist CliveWillman.

Thebook seeks to connect some of thefascinating, unjoined dots between geology, vegetation, FirstNations and land managementhistory, from Deep Timetothe presentday Thereissomething in this presentation foreveryone.

Magnificently researched, the stories of six iconic peaksincentral Victoriapresentevidencefrom diverse historicsourcesincluding CrownReservefiles, StateLibrary Victoria, Public Record OfficeVictoria, local museumlibraries and more than 70 local and expert informants. They also provide insight– from over five decades of living, walking and

cycling in this country –intohow the mountain peaks have been managed and suggest ways to creatively heal and reconnect withthem.

Professor Golding is agreat raconteur,ageologist, akeen cyclist and one of the inauguratorsofthe Great Dividing Trail. He is also apatronof the Australian Men’sShedAssociation.

He stresses that“CentralVictoria has ararelytold'bottom up'history, which is ripe forthe unwrapping and retelling. So much of what happened at and sin ce unsettling contact in this landscape, goes rightbacktothe rocksin Deep Time”.

Friday, November 7, 7pm –9pm Newham MechanicsInstitute, 1292 Rochford Road, Newham Admissionis free.A lightsupper will be provided; wine by the glass for adonation.

Booking is advisable: events humanitix.com/six-peaks-speak4pv3xmub

Professor Golding is agreat raconteur,a geologist, akeencyclistand oneofthe inaugurators of the GreatDividing Trail.

MIDLAND Property &Living

Ebden c1898 – A landmark Kyneton residence

Steeped in local history and proudly positioned in one of Kyneton'smostdistinguished locations, Ebden stands as one of the town's most significanthomes. Meticulously maintained and originally owned by Mr W.R. Kerr,proprietor of the KynetonObserver,the property todayoffersa lifestyle rich in heritage, comfort and convenience, literally just around the corner from vibrantPiper Street,central Victoria's destination forfood lovers

Privately tuckedawaywithin amagnificentgarden setting, the home immediately impresses withits striking symmetryand timeless beauty.Solid brick construction rests gracefully on bluestone foundations, while exquisiteperiod details including tuckpointedbrickwork and stunning leadlightwindows highlight the craftsmanship of abygone era.

Inside, awide arched hallway welcomes you, framedbysoaring ceilings adorned withornateroses and cornices. Theformal living roomsshowcase decorativemantles and bespokeEnglish linen Romanblinds, creating an atmosphereof refined elegance.

Theflexible floorplan offers up to four generous bedrooms and twobeautifully appointedbathrooms, one featuring Carraramarble finishes, aVictoria and Albert volcanic stone clawfootbath, and Perrin and Rowe tapware,a true touch of luxury.The classiccountry kitchen has been thoughtfully updatedwith Harcourt granitebenchtops and a1200mm Falcon double oven,perfectly blending traditional charm with everydayfunctionality. Alightfilled sunroom, framed by an ornate stained glass window, opens out to asun drenched undercoverterrace, the ideal spotfor entertaining or enjoying thepeaceful garden surrounds. Every windowoffersa viewofthe garden, alush oasis highlightedbya magnificentmagnolia and amix of exotic plantings, creating year round interest. Multiple sitting areas inviteyou to pause, unwind and enjoythe serenity Modern comfortsare well cateredfor,including gas hotwater,Braemar EchoStar gas furnace, Rinnai gas logfire, reversecycle heating and cooling, plussecure offstreetparking. Thereisalso alarge carport, 7m x5.5m garageand workshop with toilet, separategarden shed and a6kW solar systemfor energy efficiency Ahome of rare graceand heritagesignificance, Ebden must be experiencedto be fully appreciated. Perfectly positioned in theheart of town, within easywalking distancetorestaurants, shops and amenities, it represents the very best of Kynetonliving.

Property: Landmark Kynetonresidenceon0.26acres

55 Ebden Street Kyneton

Eleganceand lifestylepersonified

Occupying acommanding position with undeniable streetappeal, Heatherlie is arguably one of Maldon’s most beautiful properties. From its 19th centuryorigins, the timber home has undergone an inspired and meticulous renovation and extension to deliver stylish, contemporary indoor/outdoor living with ahintof Tuscanyreflected in the self-contained villa.

Surrounded by formal gardens with ornamental pears, vines and colourfuldeciduoustrees youstep from theimpressiveiron-laced verandah into an interior thatseamlessly blends superb period features with every modern amenity we expect today. Awide hallway,12’ timber-lined ceiling and details complements the chic, all-white paletteand gorgeous polished hardwood flooring. Lightstreams into every room through featurewindows andfrench doors, while

stately fireplaces abound. Including three bedrooms, twobathrooms, formal and informal dining/living spaces and asuperbfamily room that opens onto the coveredbrick pavedverandahs and sparkling in-ground pool.

Thesimply stunning self-contained villa with soaring ceilings highlightedbybaggedbrick walls and majestic fireplaceare just some of the features of this exquisite space, ideal as accommodation forextended family, friends or as arevenue generating BnB

Only ashort stroll to Maldon’s historic town centre, cafesand facilities, Heatherlie will readily appeal to the discerning buyer seeking an unparalleled lifestyle in awarm and welcoming ruralcommunity.Whetheras apermanenthomeorweekend retreat, this turn-key propertyisall about living the good life.

Property: Heatherlie, circa 1885

Address: 72 High Street,Maldon

Price: $1,795,000

Agent: JellisCraig

Contact: Leah Panos 0466 878 214 TomMay 0413 996 185

Agents Carole Lenander 0401 472 346 TomMay 0413 996 185

Saturday15th November at 11.00am

Theshoefittershouse –A stone’s throw from PiperStreet

Astone's throw from Kyneton'srenowned PiperStreet, this beautifully renovatedand modernised Victorian cottage combines comfort, style and period charm. Bathed in natural light, with ahugewell-plantedbackyardand an ideal position within walking distanceofeverything Kynetonhas to offer, this home is the perfect blend of history and modern living.

According to local folklore, the home is affectionately known as 'The Shoefitter's House'or'Cobbler'sCottage'.The propertycarries arich local legacy,with its 1885 date proudly displayedabove the frontdoor. Original features, including four fireplaces, exposed-brickcorbelled chimneystacks, andoriginal, baltic pinefloorboards, all anchor the home in its Victorian origins, while carefully considered renovations ensureit'sready foryou to move straightin.

Amodern open-plan kitchen, complete with

complementary stainless steel appliances and an external serving hatch thatcleverly unites the interior with the entertainers' patio, adelightfully chic bathroom witha freestanding bath, abundantglazing throughout, and acosy gas logfirecreateinviting spaces forbothquietretreat and lively gatherings.

Outdoors, the property isjustasimpressive. Manicured gardens featurea shed, pergola, bluestone barbecue, potager veggiebeds and ornamental plantings including weeping cherries, Bradfordpears, feijoa and Mexicanorange blossoms.

Whether it'sentertaining with friends, enjoying the sunshine in the leafy garden, or strolling down to Piper Street forcoffeeand fine dining, this is ahome that embraces both lifestyle and legacy –aplacewhereyou cantruly livewell.

Lancefield Lot2 Grahams Road

8.4 ha (20.8 Acres) With Planning Permit

An excellentsmall acreage hobbyfarmlet featuring very productivered volcanic soils excellentviews,good pastures,small shed,cattleyards,fully fenced and only 4kms from Lancefield towncentre.

This could be your opportunitytobuild your dream tree change residencewith aplanning permit recently issued by theMacedon Ranges Shiretobuild adwelling on the property

Thelandissuitable foravarietyofuses including cattle,sheep,horses,horticultureor viticultureetc

Price: $895,000

Zoning: Rural living Zone Schedule 1(RLZ1)

Contact: John Keating 0419 880 444 or RayCashmore0419 851 334

RenovatedVictoriancottage Address: 64 Ebden Street,Kyneton

$930,000 –$1,020,000

Raineand Horne Kyneton

Lancefield (Goldie) Corner Pyalong Road &PowellsRoad

39.5 ha (97.6 Acres) With Planning Permit

Alarge farming acreage with greatcharacter located10kms from Lancefield towncentre and featuring stunning long uninterrupted panoramic viewstothe north, with arecently issued planning permit from the MacedonRanges Shiretoallowa dwelling on the property

Thelandrises from its sealed road frontage and the topographyvaries from undulating to steep at the back of the property

Other features include excellentsoils suitable foravarietyoffarming activities,good pastures,someattractivematurenativetrees,asmall dam, and an electricitysupply is available

An outstanding featureofthe property is some stunninggraniterocktors in the landscape.

Price: $1,250,000

Zoning: Farming Zone (FZ)

Contact: John Keating 0419 880 444 or RayCashmore0419 851 334

Centralprivatesanctuary withsweeping views

Privately nestled on an elevated1568sqm (approx) allotment, this much-lovedfamily home has been held with careand affection fordecades. It is aplacewhere generations have gathered, gardens have flourished and memories have been made. With its early 1980s design, generous proportions and breathtaking views across Castlemaine, it offers an opportunity to secure ahome filled with warmth, character and possibility,all just 500m from theheart of town.

Thetwo-level layout is spacious and flexible, designed to adapttothe rhythm of family life. At the heart of the home, the kitchen and dining zone has seen countless shared meals and conversations. Awalk-in pantry,double wall oven and electric cooktop makeeverydaycooking apleasure,while the wraparound benchinvites casual dining and connection.

Twogenerous living areas, one formal, one relaxed, offerspacetounwind, entertain and enjoythe leafy surrounds. Themain bedroom suitefeatures awalkin robe and ensuite, while three additional bedrooms include built-in robes and garden outlooks. Afifth bedroom adds versatility,perfect forguests, ahome officeora creativespace

Internal stairsleadtothe lowerlevel,wherea large rumpus room with itsown showerand toilet offers aflexible retreatfor teenagers, guestsor

multigenerational living. Also on this levelisthe unique inground swimming pool, openingtothe frontgarden, afeaturethathas broughtjoy across generations and seasons. Acellar and under-house storagespace provide practical solutions forwine, toolsorseasonal items.

Outside, the garden is atrue sanctuary.Lovingly established and tended, it bursts with ornamental trees, rhododendrons, camellias, peonyroses, and spring blossoms. Anorth-facing courtyardoffersa sunnyspottorelax, while water tanks, awatering systemand atwo-car carport add practicality to the beauty.Comfort is assured year-round withducted heating and cooling, and the elevatedfront verandah capturesspectacular views over Castlemaine and out to the surrounding bushland, adaily reminder of the home's peaceful position and connection to nature

With driveway access via LyttletonStreet, the home is tuckedawayyet just moments from Castlemaine's cafes, shops, schools, and train station. It is also within walking distanceofKalimna Park, offering bushwalks and mountain biketrails rightatyour doorstep.

This is morethan ahouse; it is ahomefilled with heart, ready to welcome its next chapter.

Thepropertyistobesold by expressions of interest closing 2pm WednesdayNovember5,unless sold before

Property: Large familyhome on elevatedallotment

Address: 115 Mostyn Street Castlemaine

Price: Expressions of Interest

Agent: Cantwell Property

Contact: TomRobertson 0473 642 644

Elevated Living with Sweeping Views

25B MoscriptStreet, Campbells Creek

Set high and proud on agenerous 981 sqm (approx) allotment with commanding views of Mount Franklin and the surrounding countryside, this double-storey Victorian-style steel-framed brick veneer residence offers spacious family living, acarport, agarage and a3.3Kw solar system.

$865,000

View Sat 25th October 10:00am-10:30am Contact

Jeremy Bottomley 0433 772 033

Character,Comfort, and aGarden

Sanctuary

1Thomas Street, Castlemaine

Set on agenerous 1013sqm (approx.) allotment and just moments from Castlemaine’svibrant town centre, this beautifully maintained period threebedroom home offers aseamless blend of timeless charm, moderncomfort, and room to move.

$935,000

View Sat 25th October 11:20am-11:40am Contact

TomRobertson 0473 642 644

RetroCharm, RareOpportunity

74 Bull Street, Castlemaine

Privately tucked behind ahedge and set on a generous 1047sqm (approx.), this cream brick classic is ararefind, offered to the market for the very first time since its completion in 1964. Beyond its retro-cool aesthetic and original mid-century features, the property includes three additional selfcontained units.

$895,000 View Sat 25th October

0411 043 324

$975,000

beautifully renovated three-bedroom Victorian residence offers arareblend of historic charm, moderncomfort,and park-like surrounds. With amix of lightly treed bushland, well-maintained gardens, and open paddocks, the property is ideal for families and horse enthusiasts.

Haslam 0422 848 662

Mid-Century Mood with aView

22 Freeman Street, Castlemaine

Perched on Norwood Hill in an up-and-coming Castlemaine pocket, this three-bedroom, twobathroom home on amanageable 399sqm (approx), celebrates mid-century style with arefined modern finish, offering elevated living, curated design details and panoramic views of Mount Alexander

$675,000

View Sat 25th October 10:40am-11:00am Contact Jeremy Bottomley 0433 772 033

A welcoming home with potential to grow

Set on an elevatedand private2430sqm (approx.) allotment, this comfortable three-bedroom homeoffersrelaxed country living only fiveminutes from the centre of Castlemaine. With afunctional layout and generous proportions, the home offers flexibility forfamilies, investorsorthose seeking apeaceful lifestyle within easyreachoftown.

Thehome features an inviting open-plan loungeand meals area, withthe kitchen offering excellentstorage,electric cooking, adishwasher and plenty of bench spacefor everyday ease. Thefamily-friendly layout includes threebedrooms serviced by acentral bathroom with ashowerand separatebath, plusa separatetoiletpositioned offthe laundry forpracticality

Climate controliswell coveredwith awood heater, reverse-cycle split system, and aheat pumphot water system. Outdoor living is ahighlight, with alarge entertaining deck and a pavedalfrescoarea— perfect forgatherings, barbecues or simply soaking up the surrounds.

Theproperty's0.60acreblock offers apleasantnortherly aspect, established trees and ample spacetoextend or develop further (STCA). Theoriginaldouble garagehas been converted into aflexible studio space— fully lined, fitted with windows andpowered—ideal forcreativepursuitsora home office

Locatedjust 1.8km from thepopular Five FlagsHotel and MerchantStore,and approximately 4.5km from Castlemaine's vibranttowncentre, this appealing property combines country quietwithtownship convenience, awelcoming home with potential to grow

Property: Privateand elevatedhome withstudio conversion

Address: 38 Neates Road,Campbells Creek

Price: $699,000

Agent: BelleProperty

Contact: BlasiMulholland 0417 311 733 RobWaller 0418 571 130

Belle Property Castlemaineand Maldon.

7RoaliesPlace, Campbells Creek.

3 a 2 b 2 v 535r

•Architect-designed3-bedroom home on 535m²with sustainable gardens, soaring ceilings,and abundantnatural light.

•Energy-efficientliving with clerestory windows,3kW solar,premium kitchen,and seamless indoor-outdoor entertaining.

•Great location near Castlemaine cafésand transport

ForSale

$795,000 -$825,000 View

Saturday26thOctober: 1:00pm-1:30pm

Blasi Mulholland |0417311 733

RobWaller |0418 571 130

6FarnsworthStreet, Castlemaine.

3 a 1 b 2 v 720r

•Charming 1940s Californian Bungalow in leafy gardensetting,steps from trainand town.

•Spacious 3bedroom layout with study,period details, and open-plan living.

•Established gardens with maturefruit trees.

ForSale

$799,000 View Saturday26th October: 11:30am-12:00pm

RobWaller |0418 571 130

Blasi Mulholland |0417311 733

Lot1,128 Kennedy'sLane, Faraday.

142w

•Elevated142-acreblock with breathtakingpanoramic views and total privacy

•Features established forestry with twotreevarieties forpotential future income.

•Ideal off-grid lifestyle sitesurrounded by nature’sbeauty.

ForSale

$825,000 View

As advertised

RobWaller |0418 571 130

Blasi Mulholland |0417311 733

Scan to viewour currentlistings

Substantial home,shedding and allotment

This quality-built family home is nestled amid wonderful established gardens and also includes an inground pool and asubstantial sizeshedwith 9m x24m carport.

Set on acorner allotmentofapproximately 4000m2 the propertyisapproximately 2.5km from thetowncentre.

Thehome offers avast living environmentwith large windows.Abroad galleykitchen overlooks the living area and adjoining ameals spaceand conservatory overlooks the delightful rear garden. Thereisa largeloungewith room for formal dining and astudy alcove

Thereare four bedrooms, master with walk-in robes and ensuiteand acentral main bathroom.

Thehome has abroad,sweeping verandah on three sides forseasonal retreats and taking in the garden vista with amazing birdlife.

Externally,the gardens envelop thehome and there is adouble carport, pergola beside the pool, and afence separating the large shedding/workshop. Thespacious rear yard lends itself to further developmentifdesired, i.e. tiny homes, subdivision (stca)

Property: Spaciousfamily home on largeallotment

Address: 118 Diamond Gully Road,McKenzie Hill

Price: $990,000

Agent: Castlemaine Property Group

Contact: BrettFitzpatrick 0419 833 510 BrettWaller 0407 610 268

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

CONCRETING

PORIGNEAUX (Nee; Lynch)

Margaret Eleanor 18.2.1937 –10.10.2025

Beloved Wife of Jacques Loving Mum of Belinda, Andea &J ohn.

Loved Gra nofSam uel, Andrew, Hamish &Matthew Great Grandmother to Poppy, Amellia,Sunny &Max. Rest in Peace APrivate Fun eral washeld

Our precious mother passed away peacefully surroundedbyfamily atArcare Gisborne 19th October2025,aged 85 years Mum and Dad reunited Mum will be remembered for her devotion to family and friends.

Dearly loved wife ofAllan (dec).

Loving fatherofSimon,Andrew, Jasonand Fiona.

Mother in law of Michele, Jacquelyn, Reneeand Peter Muchloved Granny to Jessica, Laura, Emma, Cameron, Matthew,Fletcher,Jasper andPiper

Great Grandma to Oscar,Stella, Charlie, Finn, Olivia (dec.), Eli, Matilda,Tahlia andIsla.

Our Loving mother,Best mother in law and Special Granny We will miss our special times together Lots of lovely memories.

Happy knowing you are reunited with Pa. Simon and Michele, Emmaand Jack.

In loving memory ofabeautiful mother and Granny Youwill always haveaspecial place in our memories.

We are all appreciative of the times we sharedtogether and we know you are safe in Pa’sloving arms.

May yourestinpeace and love.

Andrewand Jacqui, Jessica, Murray,Oscar and Stella, Laura, Larry,Charlie and Finn

Youwere amother,mother in law and agranny

We are so gratefulfor your endlesslove and care to us all. Thank you for the stories, fun and warm cuddles. Now back withthe loveofyour life.

Rest in peace, we will love you forever in ourhearts. Jason andRenee,Cameron, Kylie, Olivia (dec.) Eli, Matilda,Tahlia and Isla, Matthew, Makayla, Konor and Jaimee.

In life we loved you dearly,indeath we loveyou still,

We will cherish each diamond day and promise to stop and smellthe roses on our way

LoveAlways, Fiona and Peter,Fletcher and Nina, Jasperand Elle, Piper andDeni.

My dear big sister,Iwill miss yousomuch. Our years ofshared joys and memories are precious to meand allmyfamily. Amuch lovedaunty and sister in law Forever in ourhearts, Elayne and Rob,Jodi,Troy,Freya and family

HANSFORD -David Eric 27.12.32–11.10.25

Davidpassedawaypeacefully atRMBeggAgedCareinKyneton. HusbandofGenevieveandfather ofPeter,Ian,GenevieveandStuart. Grandfatherof10. Hewillberememberedasaformidable sportsman,whocouldbetenderandcheeky Attheendofalonginnings hewasrunoutat92 The RMBeggfortheircareoverthelast6years andparticularlyduringCOVID Aprivatememorialservicewillbeheld.

SHELTON Ronald Percival 17.07.1937–12.10.2025

ThefamilyofRonSheltonsadlyannounce hispassing,aged88years. BelovedhusbandofJoyce,cherishedstepdad

Ron will be remembered for his kind heart, gentle humour,and warmth. milyandfriendsareinvitedtocelebrate

inviteyoutojoinviathelivestreamavailableon Ron’stributepageattjscottandson.com.au.

Aservice to celebrate Lyn’slife will be held in the Church of Christ, Blakeley Road, Castlemaine on Monday 27thOctober commencing at 11.00am

Aprivate cremation will follow

Lynette Whatley Funerals

Generous remuneration,

FLYYOUR FLAG FLY YOUR

TRADING TRRAADING SHED S

Grey skies and chill winds on Sunday October 12 did notdeter devotedpast and presentclub members who turned up to celebratethe KynetonDog Obedience Club’s 40th birthday.

More than 100 dogowners, volunteers, trainersand committeemembers took time outtomark the milestone and to congratulate the club on itsachievement.

forthis occasion and to celebratetwo of my favouritethings –volunteersinthe community and dogs, our bestfriends. It is incredible to learn moreabout thework of thevolunteersataclubthathas been running for40years,” Ms Thomas said.

“Weknowofcourse thathaving awelltrained dogisimportant, but we also need dogownerswho aresocial and responsible, and thatiswhatthe club is allabout Congratulations to all,”she said.

KDOChas operated on apurely volunteer-run basis since1985, encouraging responsible dogownership and providing socialisation and obediencetraining for dogs throughout the Kynetonarea.

Theclasses –beginnersand four skill levels –are held on Sundaymornings at Barkly SquareinKyneton. Adedicated committee and volunteer instructorshave kept the club running for40years.

On Sunday, training proceeded as normal from 10am and then all gathered to hear speeches, to watch the birthdaycake cutting and to mingle over abarbecue sausagesizzle.

KDOCpresidentJohnFlynn opened the formalities and welcomed all to the special occasion.

“Every Sundaymorning brings with it a cacophonyofexcited dogs witha touch of apprehension from theirowners. It is up to us to offerguidanceand support to all who makethe effort to attend,come rain hail or storms– which is certainly common in Kyneton,” John said.

“Forty yearsofcontinuous volunteer operation of anyclub deserves to be celebratedand to our past committees, instructorsand helpersmanythanks for your involvementand help. Here’s to another 40 years.”

Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas then spokeabout her association with KDOC, acknowledging Macedon Ranges Shire councillorsJanetPearce and Jennifer Anderson, who also attended.

“I jumped at the chance to be here

PresidentJohnand vice-presidentCarol Wicks cut the official cake, thanking and acknowledging Emily Birrell daughterof club member Julie, who made and decorated the special cake.

John said he had been involved with the club forabout 10 yearsand, like everyone else, he’d startedwith adog that needed training.

“So, yourock up.Then Istayedand I alwaysfound it very welcoming and no pressure. Therewas always asense of camaraderie,”hesaid.

John said thatwhen he became involved with the committee, he saw howmuchwork wasrequired behind the scenes.

“Itisalot of work, but it is such awonderful thing to see peoplegivetheir time and skills to keep it going. About 50 to 60 people (with dogs)turnupmost Sundays It is weather dependent, of course,”he said.

“Weare alwayslimited by the number of instructors. We could alwaysdowith moreinstructors.”

Both John and secretary SarahGill said newinstructorswerealwayssoughtafter, and thatthe club would help and train anyone who waskeen to learn.

“The best thing is seeing the difference it makes to the dogs and their ownersand howeveryone enjoys thetime,”Sarah said TheKynetonDog ObedienceClub can be contacted on kynetonobediencedogclub@gmail.com

More than 100 dog owners, volunteers, trainers and committee members took time out to celebratethe KynetonDog ObedienceClub’s40th birthday.Photos: BrendanMcCarthy

PORTS WRAP SP

Castlemaine steadies to take doubles

TheGoldfields DistrictCroquetpennantseason has passed the halfway mark Castlemaine's division 2team travelled to Bendigoknowing they had to win on the lightning fast lawns theretokeep their chances of taking out thetitle alive. With wins in both opening singles games, theywerefeeling very confident. Steve Duffy beatJohn Lillyston sevenhoops to threeand Heather Crawleycontinued her excellentform beating RodArnold 7-4.

Thehome team hit backtakingbothreverse singles games to leave the teams tied on wins and hoops. TheCastlemaine pair steadied to take thedoubles 7-3 and win the match

In the other match, Maldon's Theo Stockx beatBrenda Wiseman of Maryborough 7-3 in the opening game butthatwas to be their only win as theywentdownone game to four

In division 3, the matchofthe round wasbetween the twoundefeated Kyneton teams. Theresult could have hardly been anycloser.Judy Aldredgot KynetonYellow offtoagood start with a7-6 win over Bill Caddaye forKynetonGreen. David Laird then evened it up forGreen, beating Deborah Bosman 7-5. In thereverse singles, Laird caused abig upset when he beatAldred7-6. It wasnow up to Bosman to getthings back on even terms, which she did beating Caddaye 7-6, leaving the match tied at two games apiecewith Green aheadbyone hoop. Thedoubles would decide thewinners and it lived up to expectations, Bosman running hoop 12 giving KynetonYellowa 7-5 win, taking the match three games to twoand ahead on hoops 32-31.

Castlemaine welcomed Maldon but showedthe visitorsnomercy winning all five games. Paul Williams and Catherine Pearsonweredominantscoring 35 hoops to 14.

In the other match, Quarry Hill beatthe Eaglehawk Hawks 4-1.

Summer season begins

NowthatDaylightSaving has started, the summer season of petanque has begun TheWoodend Hanging Rock Petanque Club season will nowrun until DaylightSaving finishes in March.

Theclubhas twovenues, theRacecourse ReserveinForest Street,Woodend, where theyplayonMondays from 2pm until about 4pm and Hanging Rock Reserve, South Rock Road Newham, wheretheyplayonThursdays from 3pm until about 7pm.

WHRPC began theseasonatHanging Rock with the President’sCup last week, in honour of one of the founding members Marilyn Steel.

Forty-one players,including severalplayersfromMountMacedon Petanque Club, Maldon and the Pyrenees Petanque Clubs, gathered at Hanging Rock to fightitout, with sevenofthe players winning all of the three games.

Each Thursdaythe club puts on abarbecue forthe members, with Maria Liew bringing her deliciousguacamole to tide everyone over untilthe dinner of hamburgersand sausages and salad with icecreams to finish offthe night. It is adifferentmenu each week as membersliketoput their spin on it!

Forthe next severalmonths thereare severalpetanque tournaments around the state each week, as in Smythesdale, Ballarat, Nagambie, and Avoca –the PyreneesClub –has atwo-day tournamentand on Sunday

PeterBarry, winner of ThePresident’sCup, is presentedwith the trophybyLouisePotter

November 23, WHRPC will be holding a MixedTriplesCompetition at Hanging Rock. So,ifyou arefree, head to theRock to see whatthis funnygame is all about!

Deborah Bosman winning the matchfor KynetonYellowasJudy Aldred watches on.

Tournament ahugesuccess

Woodend Golf Club's 101st AnnualTournament held overthree days wasatremendous success, with generally favourable weather. It couldnot have been staged without thewelcome support of numerous sponsors, and theinflux of playersfrom16different clubs to back up thelocals forthe Men'sOpenonthe Sunday.There were 83 players overall Aplay-offwas needed to determine the winner of the Keating'sHotel Cupafter SimonTrickey (Future Golf)and Brendan Larkins (Gisborne)tied on 67 off the stick.

Trickey wononthe second play-off hole.

Handicap winners: A— MatthewPearce73-9-64; B— Mark Hutchison 75-11-64; C— Wayne Kupke 86-26-63.

Theladies competedfor theAnnetteWiber Cup with Kristie Kennedy (Ballarat)the winner with 77, and Trentham's SueByrne runner-up.

"You guysdoanawesome job, and whatacourse! I will definitely be back,"Kennedy said at the presentation.

Nyssa Payne(Woodend) wasthe handicap winner with 100-36-64.

NTPswenttoJack Roberts (2), DannyBellchambers (2), Mark Hutchison and Patrick Doyle.

120 PLAYERS

TheBob MasonClassiconthe Saturdaydrewa capacity field of 120 players (40 teams)for thethreeperson Ambrose. Atremendous performancefrom Gisborne's Alexander Fraser,GregPaine and Braydn Beattie produced a52nett.

Runners-up were Chris Hale, Xander Brownand Nick Lethbridgeon52.667, with AndyGregory,Guy Moxley andSusie Baldwin thirdon55.5.

Thegross winnerswereSimon Mason, Ethan Bell and Troy Williams with 58, withMount Macedon's Matt Willis, DarcyDoyle andJim Hynes runners-up with 60.

KevinDorney, Mark Hilton,Rick Cunningham,Sam Barker,Tim Scoble and Troy Williams were NTPs.

GOLD CUP WINNER

Thetournamentbegan on Fridaywith theprestigious John Dewar Gold Cup, andanimpressive67-265 from Grant Davies wasrewarded with the cup.

A-grade went to Matt 'Poppa'Longwith 79-11-68 from KennyTurley77-8-69.

Tyson Payne96-27-67 wonB-grade from Xander Brown91-21-70.

Andrew Daviesclaimed theFredHolman Trophy with 72-3-69.

CASTLEMAINE

Alarge field turned outonSaturday with twoplayers finishing on plus 4inthe par event.

Aftera countback, Jayson Glenister(15) wasthe overall and B-grade winner,with LesPrendergast (10) taking out A-grade.

Grade runners-up were Kane Clack (9) with +1, and Mick Kehoe (17) on +3.

In C-grade it wasanall-female finish, as JanBarrat (24and +2)took the honourson acountback from JenDyer(21).

Ross Stevensand HelenSkinner were NTPs.

Saturday'searly nine-hole stableford attracted 14 startersand it wasGina Ralston who finished on the podium with 25 points. Last week'swinner Julie Cross playedwell again with21points, taking second placeonacountback from Glenda Jefferies, both from a19handicap

TheOctober midweek medal went to IanVorbach (14) with acommanding minus 5, also toppingB-grade.

He wasfour shots clear of Leigh Campbell and Gavin Lang who were also below their handicap to fillthe firsttwo spotsin A-grade.

TheNTP awards went to Vorbach and LesPrendergast.

GISBORNE

Banjo's greatgrandson, Zach Paterson, wonthe monthly medal and C-grade witha nett 65 on Saturday.

BenRoberts took out A-grade with a nett 71 and the 'Marnoo Marvel' Craig Wood, and he did, winning B-grade with the same score.

Jacqui Nelson took out the women's medal with anett72.

Jamie 'Watcha Talkin'Bout' Wills won the A-grade open competition with 38 points on Thursday.

Hisgood fortunecontinued into the weekend with ahole-in-one on the ninth at Warrnambool. Shane Walsh took out the Thursdaymonthly with 42 points, and Tony Harfordwon C-grade with 40.

Thewomen's monthly medal went to Moon FlashGordon witha nett 70 on Wednesday. Ruth Williams wonB-grade with 71.

Unfortunately,Gisborne futuregolferswentdownintheir Vic Junior pennant matches. Medway Blue beatGGC Joeys 4-2, withLetti Sacco winning 2-1 and Samuel McMahon and Elisha Martin halving their matches.

TheGoonawarraSwans beatGGC Cockatoos 3.5-2.5 with JacobMemery winning 2-1 and BaileyFreethwinning his last pennantmatch 4-3. Phoenix Moss

Town &District

GOLFresults

halved his match.

KYNETON

On Saturdaynightthe club celebrated its 125th anniversary and 75 yearsinits currentlocation with the awarding of life membership to club treasurer Barry Keane, who is credited withguiding the club to survival and then growth through tumultuous financialtimes.

Earlier in the day, teen tyro Thomas Beachey'sgamble to contest the open title in the club championship paid offwith a stunning victory on the 19thinthe first round of matchplay.

In amatch that swung both ways but neverreached greatheights, topseed Jason McClure could notfind his best after struggling with the flu andsuccumbed to the 16-year-old'spar in extratime.

Beacheywill nowplayTienHoina semi-final, the fifth seed also prevailing on the 19th afterfourthseed Pete Robins missed ashort puttfor victory on the last.

Defending champion ColHudgson outlasted seventhseed Jesper Hansen 2-1 and will playCam Hendy afterthe sixth seed upsetnumber3 David Moore4-2.

In B-grade, three matches went to the higherseed, with only number 5Col Wickham turning the tables, beating Pete Walsh 4-2.Topseed Terry Kotcame back from 4downafter six to denycaptain David Austin 3-2, presidentJonathan Beachey cruised past Kash Karunasena 4-3, and Adam Pyettknocked out par 3champ Mick McQualter 2-1.

In C-grade, all matches went to seeding with topseed Brad Duncan to meet veteranPeterKewniuk in one semi, and Col O'Sullivan battling GeoffDalgleish in the other.Non-qualifiersplayedstableford on Saturday, with Matt Wallace(27) fiveshots better than anyone else with 43 points. Dave Pilcher (13) wonthe topflightwith 37 points.

NTPswenttoJarrod Lee, ScottGalloway, Louis Thompson, Wickham and MatHodgkiss (alsosuper pin), while Harry Huntly baggedfour of the 19 birdies recorded.

Thewomen playedthe first round of their championship over twodays.

On Tuesday, captain Julie Harris 93-2271 edged prolific winner Denise Murphy (19) by one in A-grade.

DebKohlman 96-26-70 wonthe medal of medallists and B-grade by six shots from Marg Scoble, while Judy Quick(29) edged Valme Smoors (33) by twoinC-grade.

On Saturday, Murphy had nett 73 to beatRobbie Schuurman (31) on acountback, while Kylie Munro(11) had the best

gross scoreof87, despitenine on the third hole.

On Wednesday, Damien Summers(16) had twobirdies in his haul of 43 points, twoclear of GeoffTurner(18). Michelle Werner (23) wasthe best womanwith 37.

Regular Wednesdaywinner Michael Huntington added another string to his bowwith victory in the Thursdaynine-hole shootout, playing the last four just one over for20points and relegating Terry Gamble to second place.

LANCEFIELD

There'sone round to go to determine the winnersofthe men's andwomen's championships.

Trevor Lambert tightened his grip on the men's title in the second round on Saturday, taking his 36-hole totalto153 gross.

Denis Davenport leads theA-grade handicap section on 141, David Morgan is on 145 in B-grade, twoclear of James Whitford, and Stephen Morgan 148 leads by three from Barry Flentjar and Wayne MeeinC-grade.

Stroke results on SaturdaywereDavid Morgan 86-17-69, from Davenport 80-1070 and Greg Parks 85-14-71.

Anne Robinson is in good form and is inching her waytowards her first women's title, with gross 203 after36holes.

Handicap leaders: A— Robinson 143; B— SandraStevens and Carole Mee148; C— Fran Beard164. Robinson and Kaylene Cruise were NTPs

In the 18 holes on Wednesday, the three grade winnerswereRobinson nett 69, Lyn Murchison 74, and Janine Notman 80.

TuesdayLegends: Mark Cruise 89-2069, on countback from PeterMcGill81-1269, and Barry Flentjar 92-21-71.

Dalhousie Veterans playedanAmbrose at Lancefield on Thursday.

Strathbogie (Phil Fry, Grant Pearce and Michael Dixey) wonwith anett61, from Broadford(Brian McDowell, Paul Howe and Thomas Fenton 62.833, and Seymour (Gary Neville, Philip Jarvis, Darren Cook) 63.333.

MOUNTMACEDON

Saturday'spar eventsaw Kevin Taylor (16) win both A-grade and overall with +4, helped along with birdies on the 1st, 10th and 12th holes.

Hayden Phillips (12) wasrunner-up on +2.

Bubba Watson (22) had -1 to take out B-grade from areturning Nifty Clark (26) on -2.

NTPswenttoDarren Mantynen, Brian Freestone and Jezza Clare.

MMGCwelcomed back Mark Burrage

afterhis major health episode, and also Axedale's Troy Richards forhis first round at ourcourse. In the midweek stableford the A-grade winner was'Trunks'Hoiles (15) with 39 points, from Brian Freestone(17) 37. RobTaylor (20) topped B-grade with 37 points, on acountback from JennySvendsen (30).

Course closed: TheMMGCOpenweekend begins with atwo-person Ambrose shotgun on November 1, followedbythe 27-hole MMGC Open Tournamenton Sunday2nd.

ROMSEY

Congratulations to SteveWilkins on being afinalist in the Volunteer of the Year in the Victorian Golf Industry Awards last week. It wasgreat recognition of Steve's contribution to golf at Romsey,especially overthe past five yearsasgreenskeeper

An all-male field turned outfor Friday's twilightevent on the frontnine.

SteveWilkins (10) returned the best scoreof19points to edgeout Luke Lyons (4) and Lancefield visitor DavidMorgan on acountback.

Nathan Moroney(9) and Simon Donovan(4) were next best on 18 points.

TRENTHAM

An absolutestunning and enjoyable Saturdayfor the mixedaggregate stableford

Thedynamic duo of Graeme Teesdale and RichardCoote scorched around fora cracking 73 points.

Hotontheir heels were James Moustafa and DannyHalstead with afine 71.

Thecourseisreally shaping up well for the club'sspring tournamentevents.

Good luck to all the competitors— bring your best game and asmile!

WOODEND

Therewere59 players enjoying the glorious spring conditions on Saturday, and some excellentstableford scores to brag about were carded.

Thebest was41points from C-grader PeterElliott (23). Kelsey Williams (34) was runner-up on 39, afine tune-up leading into thewomen's matchplaysemi-final.

GuyMoxley(4) had 38 points to top A-grade ahead of newest member Lyam Murray (6) on 37.

In B-grade it wasFergus Nevin(13) who led the waywith 38, one clear of James O'Brien (12). Areminder the popularTin Cupevent takesplaceeach Sunday, and there'salso achickenrun on Fridays from 5.30pm. Most club membersand visitors drivetheir carts safely and responsibly,but regrettably,there'sstill toomanyreckless driving incidents.

John Dewar Cup: Nettwinner —Grant Davies(L) Fred Holman Trophy: Gross winner— Andrew Davies(R).

Jolt forRomseydiv one bowlers

Bill West

Aftera 60-shotvictory over Trentham, Romseydivision one bowlerscrashed back to reality when theywenttoBroadfordon Saturday.

Broadfordhad lost to Kilmoreinacliffhanger,but back at home, theywerefired up to really test the Redbacks in their third-round encounter.

While Aaron Young'srink wonbyfour shots, the other twoRomseyfoursmet their match

Theoutcome wasanimportant22-shot victory to aBroadfordside thathas final four aspirations.

Conditions forbowls were very good across the boardonSaturday.

JUSTROLLING ALONG

Reigning premier Kynetonhas aformidable rink comprising TimCook, Bernie Halpin, Graham Edwardsand toplineskipper Greg Podesta, in his second season with the club.

This four demolished their Woodend opponents 35-7 on Saturdayasthe home side cruised to amaximum points victory by 56 shots.

Woodend did well to win division 2last season, but margins likethis showhow hard it becomes forpromotedsides taking on the final four contendersinthe topdivision.

UnbeatenKynetonGolf is only apoint behind Kynetononthe ladder and can expect to be therecome finals time.

Golf defeated Trentham by 25 shots, with BobDobinson's rink gaining asolitary pointfor the Saints.

With the TimRogersrink in fine form, Gisborne wasable to accountfor the visiting Kilmorecombination by 11 shots —eachteam gaining awin, aloss, and atie across the three rinks.

DiggersRest, at home, claimed maximum points against Lancefield, with an overall margin of 19 shots.

Currentladder: Kyneton46points, Kyneton Golf 45, Kilmore32, Broadford31, Diggers Rest 30, Gisborne 29, Romsey 18, Lancefield 4, Woodend 4, Trentham 1.

KYNETON JUST MISS

Kyneton'sdivision 2and 3sides both went down in very close finishes on Saturday.

In division 2, arch rival KynetonGolf had just one winning rink, skippered by evergreen John McQualter,and his 14 shots margin was enough to getGolf home by twoshots

Kyneton'sdivision 3side foughthardat Romsey, only to go down by three shots to the Redbacks.

Romsey2 impressed witha 92-46 all shots up margin at home to Broadford Macedon had 15 shots to spareathometo Kilmore, but in division 3onthe same green, Lancefield foughtback in the latter stages for its first win withtwo shotstospare

Good to seePhillip Shaw back in action for the Tigers

ALL THE SCORES

Resultsofthirdround matches in Highlands pennantbowls on Saturdaywere:

Division 1: KynetonGolf 79 dTrentham 54: W. Turner (s)25 dC.McKeone 15, A. Plowman 22 tied with R. Dobinson 22, P. Linehan 32 d N. Cooke17.

Kyneton89d Woodend 33: G. Podesta 35 dS.Pickles 7, D.J. Thomas 27 dT.Lennie 12, Ant. Mathison 27 dN.Bickerdyke14.

Gisborne 67 dKilmore56: T. Rogers 25 dJ Wiffen 12, D. Gade 24 lost to D. Noonan 26, B. Johnson 18 tied with D. Carroll 18.

Broadford72 dRomsey50: D. Ellis26d G. Taylor 10, R. Chapman 22 lost to A. Young 26, D. Kelly24dC.Austin14.

DiggersRest 73 dLancefield 54: R. Treweek 24 dA.Brandolin 17, S. Crimmins 20 dJ

Holmes 18, K. Stafford 29 dA.Andrews 19. Division 2: Romsey92d Broadford46: A. Laing 37 dB.Goddard12, J. Reimann 33 d P. Hoskins 16, R. Kozulins 22 dJ.Bruce18. Kyneton53losttoKynetonGolf 55: D. Knight 19 dJ.Turner 16, N. Jamieson 24 dJ.Trounce 13, M. Bermingham 10 lost to J. McQualter 24. Macedon 65 dKilmore50: I. Matthews 23 dA.Langdon 22, Graeme Hobbs 15 lost to W. Coyle 16, I. Guymer 27 dC.Hodgson 12. Gisborne 84 dDiggers Rest 48: P. Nathan 20 lost to A. Scaramuzzino 22, J. Evans27 dJ.Beckett 10, I. Ball 27 dR.Beckett16.

Division 3: Mt Cottrell 78 dTrentham 33: L. Glascott21d L. Gent 20, J. Langley29d G. Laurie 13, D. Roche 28 dI.Bruton 11. Macedon 56 lost to Lancefield 58: B. Wasyl21d J. Smith 20, D. Summerfield 22 dP.Shannon 16, A. Cameron 13 lost to D. Safstrom 22. Romsey50d Kyneton47: H. Rose 11 lost to N. Rawlings 19, D. Culpin 22 dJ.Epps 11, M. Gilligan 17 tied with S. Fenton 17. Kilmore47losttoGisborne 63: C. Wright16d V. Cyrulo 14, D. Boyd 23 dT.Shearson 22, S. Bloomfield 8losttoS.Lawless 27.

GAMESONSATURDAY

Thefourth round of division one Highlands pennantbowls this Saturdayare: Romseyv Gisborne. Woodend vTrentham Lancefield vKyneton. KynetonGolf vBroadford KilmorevDiggers Rest.

Long

Bill West

Having just his second start, the Liam HowleyKynetontrained galloper Riozino showed plenty of couragetowin at Warrnambool last Thursday.

Afterfinishing sixthathis race debut over 1600matKilmoreon September 29, the four-year-old

showedheappreciatedthe 2000 metres in the $30,000 Alan Pye Electrics Maiden Plate.

Ridden by Celine Gaudray, Riozino went to thelead at the 400-metre mark and defied all challenges to win by 0.4 of a length.

Riziono is racedbyTonyRider and started as a$12 chance.

Winnerskeep coming

Bill West

Kynetontrainer Charles Cassar is on the best winning streak of his lengthy career,withfirst starter Cosmic Vixen leading all the waytowin impressively at Ballarat last week.

This made it four winnersfromjust sevenstartersinOctober forCassar, who is nowtraining alargerteam than previously possible.

Cassar said buying stables at the local course had made adifference, rather than just operating from his farm at PipersCreek.

"We've gota good team of ridersand stable staffaswell,and have endedup withsomegood horses,"hesaidafter Cosmic Vixen wonthe 1000m Global Turf Maiden.

Ridden by Will Gordon, the mare started as a$5.50 chanceand jumped quickly from barrier 7.

Shewas neverheaded and finished clear of other first startersinPointMyFinger and TipsyGypsy.

Cassar said he knewCosmic Vixen had plenty of ability,and it wasvery satisfying as thegalloper should improve furtheronher debutrun.

He described owner Morgan Payne (MP Racing) as

Cassar is hoping the current winning streak forhis stable can continue.

Thereare racesatKynetontoday(Tuesday),and the 2025 KynetonCup is coming up on Wednesday, November 5.

Thathappyfeeling: SistersLottie(at left) and Cass Marr arepart of the Howleystable team, and were thrilled with Riozino’s victory

Photo:Reg Ryan/Racing Photos

avery good judge. He had obtained Cosmic Vixen after seeing her in jump outs.

Impressivefirst-up: Cosmic Vixen, ridden by Will Gordon, goes to the line at Ballarat.Photo:Pat Scala/ Racing Photos

Hard to beat: Skipper Greg Podesta has his side ticking over as Kynetonset out on the path to try and snareconsecutivedivision 1flags.

Close finish: Macedon’s Robert Hyland in action againstLancefield in the division 3matchthat went down to the wire.

CDCA in full swing

Castlemaine District Cricket Association competition ramped up into full swing last weekend with AGrade returning forround twomatches,the Women's comp kicking offFridaynight, and the AReserve, BGrade and CGrade (Under 16) seasons commencing Saturday.

Highlights of the round were Campbells Creek ColtsB Grade batsman Connor Ryan's 115 with the batand pickofthe bowlerswas BarkersCreek'sChris McKnightwith 5-14.

Results were as follows:

AGrade

Muckleford 5-229 (Samuel McGee54, Declan Slingo54, Daniel Peckham 53 not out, BrettCole 40; Martin Boyle 2-38) defeated Guildford10-76 (Adrian Parsons 23 notout, Angus Mychajlyszyn 21; Declan Slingo4-14, Nash Turner 4-17).

Harcourt 6-175 (HarleyBrereton79not out, BaileyMcMurtrie 20, Tasman Scoles 14, Koby Simmons 14; Declan Brasher 2-14, David George 2-24) accounted forCastlemaine United 10-160 (Declan Brasher 37, Gabriel O'Sullivan 27, Clement Beazley23not out; Koby Simmons 3-25, Mark Hickman 2-24) Maiden Gully Marist 9-128 (Robert Brown37, BrettHaw 26, Adil Ali26 not out; Chris McKnight5-14,Bodhi Robinson 2-8) lost to BarkersCreek 1-129 (Mark Noonan 48, Nash Robinson 40 notout, Bodhi Robinson 32 notout; Nathan Cavalier 1-21).

Newstead 10-93 (lost to North Castle-

AReservebatsmanJamieAllan notchedup76withthe bat in his side’s winoverTaradale. Photo:Max Lesser

maine 7-181 (John Howorth 47, Craig Pearce 27 notout,Mitchell Hancock 26; George Tillbrook 2-31, MatthewCulvenor 2-34).

AReserve

Castlemaine United 3-228 (Jack Nuttall 86, Brian Brasher 47 notout,Nick Kearton 42, Adam Smolak 30; Craig Ting 1-30) defeated Muckleford 3-222 (Tom Crawshaw87not out, Marty Sharples 49, Callan Hough 45; Charlie Cordy1-27,Samantha Brasher 1-41).

North Castlemaine 9-190 (Jamie Allan 76, Nathan Anderson 32, ScottThompson 24;MatthewMaerz2-3, BenStokes2-38, Leigh Bennett 2-43) defeated Taradale 9-160 (Steve Learmonth 52, Lachlan Maltby35not out,Regan Williams 18, Jake Innes 14; Levi Bruce3-31, ScottThompson 2-17).

Heathcote4-151 (BradleyPolson56 notout,Tim Gleeson43, Brad Rowe 16; Faolan Gardner 2-32, Tristin Parsons 1-18) accountedfor Newstead 9-148 (Ciaran Gardner 41, Lachlan Park 21, Gerald Chapman 19 notout;Mohan Pun4-28,Paddy Carmody 2-36).

Harcourt vMaiden Gully -pending

BGrade

Taradale 2-75 (MattCurnow30not out, Nicholas Worthington 16; Alfred Chaffey 1-16) defeated Castlemaine United 8-73 (Will Penrose 22; RussellMuir 2-10, Tim Rogers 2-14).

BarkersCreek 8-209 (Brodie BrowneKerr 41, Callam De Bono 34, Oliver Daldy

Dirt Crits settoreturn

TheCastlemaine Rocky RidersMountain Bike Club, Dirt Crits Series starts on Thursday November 6and registrations arenow open!

Dirt Crits is ajunior cross country mountain bikeevent series, consisting of 10 rounds of mountain biking fun. Fiveeventswill be held in November-December 2025 and afurther fiveinFebruary-March 2026 at theWalmer Forest trailhead, Daltons Road Castlemaine. Dirt Crits arerun as ahandicapped format, with individual start times and laps to complete calculated week-to-week, based on lap times. So on anygiven week, anyone can win! Thereare twocategories: Dirt Cubs (age 3-7) and Dirt Masters(ages 8-14).

Castlemaine Rocky Ridersmember Mandy Chilcottsaid the Dirt Crits were allabout fun. "Weencourageridersofall abilitiestocome and have ago, either to compete, or to just roll around and enjoyour local trails in afriendly and inclusiveenvironment,"she said. Cost of entry foreach week of racing is just agold coin donation. To register follow the link on the Castlemaine Rocky RidersFacebook pageorvisit www.rockyriders.com formore information.

TheCastlemaine RockyRidersDirt Crit series returnsthisNovember

22; Kris Barnett 3-45, Lochlan Pointer2-32, William Ryan 2-42) had astrong win over MiaMia 9-84 (WesleyEdwards 16 notout, Joseph Druce14; Oliver Daldy3-25, Jackson Byrne 3-29, Andrew Stephens 2-0).

Muckleford 4-178 (AlexCottrell 51, Toby Chapple 47, Francis Walls 23; Max Adams 2-24) lost to Heathcote8-181 (Brian Austin 74 notout,Brett Polson 51, Ruby Demeo 15; Chris Edwards2-24, Seth Gross 2-29).

Hepburn 9-208 (Nathaniel Lowe 58, Issac Pedretti 44, Amit Kumar 20, Corey Shiell 20 notout;Connor Ryan 2-22, Blackwood UlmanJones 2-24) went down to Campbells Creek Colts9-251 (Connor Ryan 115, James Collie38, PatrickJones 30; Isaac Pedretti 3-52, TomQuinn 2-35, Nathaniel Lowe 2-40).

Newstead had the bye.

Women

Newstead 138 (DawnMcNabb 24 retired notout,Samantha Stevenson17 notout, Clare McNabb 14 retirednot out; Lucinda Lowe 1-18) defeated Hepburn83 (Lucinda Lowe 29 retirednot out; Alicia Nicholson-Pollard4-14).

Castlemaine United 56 (Emma Smolak10retired notout;CarysChalkinMcDonald 2-8) lost to BarkersCreek 108 (Gabrielle Smith 15 retirednot out, Ruth McNamara13retired notout, Jane Furze 12 retirednot out; Merryn Barnett 1-9) Guildford97(Ellenor Landy 13 retired notout; Catherine Trompp 1-6) accounted forMuckleford69(GraceSmith 10 retired notout; MollyYork 3-5).

North Castlemaine 52 (Jessica Cox2-5) lost to Campbells Creek Colts113 (Jessica Cox21 retirednot out, Johannah Maher17 retired notout,Louise Smith 12 retirednot out; Leah McCoy1-8).

CGrade (Under 16) Campbells Creek 3-122(Blackwood Ulman Jones 31 retired notout,Mitchell Sturgess 26, Gianluca Macdougall Di Manno 16 notout;Grace Freemantle 1-12) defeated Laanecoorie Dunolly 8-112 (Edward Crompton 38 notout,CharlotteLiddicoat 20, Williams Crumpton11; JhiMcKenzie 3-12, Blackwood Ulman Jones2-21).

Castlemaine United Gold 1-85 (Louis Parsons30, Charlie Cordy30retirednot out) defeated Castlemaine United Blue 4-74 (DeclanBrasher 30 retirednot out, DarcyMinster 12 notout,EmmaSmolak 11 notout;Ted Cordy1-8). Newstead 5-68 (Eve Righetti 26 retired notout, William Garsed 13 retirednot out; AmityPalmer 2-0) lost to Carisbrook 10116 (Axel Purcell 39, Rory Sanders12not out, William Lendon 10; William Garsed 4-19, Elwood Ebery3-20).

ColtsPhelans 3-110 (Charlie Erikson 33 retirednot out, BrettCoon30 retired notout, Cody Jamieson 16; JamesAnderson 2-11) defeated Barkers/North/ Harcourt 4-91 (Darragh Pryor23not out, Jack Gibson 15 notout,James Anderson 11, Brayden Allan 10,KaleWaddington 10; Cody Jamieson 2-4).

Muckleford had the bye.

NorthCastlemaine

BraveMacedon fightsback

Bill West

Four wicketstoprobing off-spinner Corey Day putRomseywell on topofMacedon in their McIntyreCup clash at Tony ClarkeReserve, but the Cats staged adetermined fightback via a sixth-wicket standof70runs.

Chasing 7/165 c.c forvictory from 45 overs, Romseynever gotontop and Macedon grabbed the last four wicketsfor the addition of just nine runs to remain unbeatenafter three rounds.

Captain-coach BenWay wasunable to play, and the Redbacks collapsedlateafter acting captain Chris Burkettwas dismissed fortop scoreof 38. Matt Milne28and TomBoyer24also looked likely but were dismissed at the wrong time (for Romsey)

Thereturn of talentedall-rounder TimBerzins aftera considerable absencewas vital forthe home side.

Despitelack of sustained practice, Berzins scored an unbeaten50withgood placements and shared in the recovery along with the talented Cameron Clayton, who made 42 at the righttime.

TheCats' knowledgeofthe ground helped curtail Romsey's run flow,and Cadel Howlett struck avitalblowwith the newball by dismissing first round century maker Taylor Stevenson fora 'duck' Macedon's experienced captain Cam Howlett wasvery pleased with his side's performance, following on acourageous victory overSunbury United in the previous round. On that occasion Howlett made an unbeaten99atthe righttime.

Cadel Howlett finishedwith 4/25 from 7.1 overs in abig performance.

Macedon can nowlook at making arealistic push fora finals berth; Romsey will bounceback —the Redbacks areused to being in finals.

ALL THE SCORES

ResultsofGisborne DistrictCricket Association one-daymatches on Saturdayinclude: McIntyre Cup1sts: Woodend 9/191 c.c. lost to Sunbury United 4/193, Macedon 7/165 c.c. dRomsey146, Wallan 177 dRupertswood 130, Gisborne 5/258 c.c.d Broadford 114.

Johnstone 1sts: Lancefield 8/159 c.c. dEynesbury 9/125, Eastern Hill 141 dEast Sunbury 69, Kilmore5/180 c.c. lost to DiggersRest 4/181, Sunbury Kangaroos 6/221 c.c. dHarkness 171. McIntyre 2nds: Broadford8/179 c.c.d Gisborne 164, Romsey 215 dMacedon 109, Woodend 8/180 c.c. (Xavier Tadd 96 n.o.) dSunbury United 6/184.

Johnstone 2nds: Lancefield 153 lost to Eynesbury 3/154, Kilmore143 lost to Diggers Rest 3/149, Harkness 233 dSunbury Kangaroos 8/174, Eastern Hill 127 lost to East Sunbury 6/128.

Jensen 2nds: Malmsbury145 lost to Hanging Rock 2/147, Rupertswood 66 lost to Riddell 0/68, Gisborne 5/226 c.c.d Blackwood 81, Woodend

9/149 c.c. DTrentham 7/153 (James Black 5-27), Macedon 8/139 c.c. lost to Wallan 1/141, Romsey 175 dSunbury United 126. Jensen 3rds: Melton 4/211 c.c. d Hanging Rock 144 (R. Mann 100ret.), DiggersRest 7/154 c.c. dKilmore87, Melton Centrals 6/235c.c. tied with Rupertswood 9/235, Melton South 8/177 c.c. lost to Riddell 2/181 (Michael Day 102 n/o),Eynesbury 69 lost to Sunbury 3/76.

Club North: Lancefield 32 lost to Hanging Rock 0/34, Kyneton3/175 c.c. lost to Woodend 7/183, Eastern Hill 127 lost to Wallan 5/129, MalmsburyGold 3/204 c.c. dKilmore6/185,

Malmsbury Green 7/214 c.c. D Gisborne 3/172, Broadford89 lost to Romsey1/90. Club South: Melton 7/169 c.c. DGisborne 8/112, Woodend 132 dBacchus Marsh8/91, Melton South 110 c.c. lost to Melton Centrals 3/114, Sunbury United 3/134 c.c. dDiggers Rest 8/107, Rupertswood 8/128 c.c. lost to East Sunbury 3/132, Eynesbury 6/133 c.c. lost to Sunbury 6/135.

GAMES THISWEEKEND Fourth round McIntyreCup matches in the GDCA this Saturdayare: Gisborne vMacedon. Romseyv Woodend. Wallan vBroadford Sunbury United vRupertswood.

RileyVernon’srun spree

Thetwo Vernon brothersare among the mostoutstanding cricketersinthe Gisborne District Cricket Association, and it'snosurprise to see runs flowwhen theyare at the crease.

Making centuries is alwaysa possibility when theybat forGisborne in McIntyreCup matches, and vice-captain and opening batRiley Vernon rose to theoccasion in superb fashion, spending Saturdayafternoon ensuring his side had ahugetotal on the board.

He finished 150 notout (13fours, three sixes)from138 deliveries.

Andjust as well, as he watched fellowopener SpencerJones and his captain JarrydVernon dismissed by Broadfordspeedster Nathan Woods in successivedeliveries to makeit twowickets fornoruns!

Maybe Rileythoughtaboutthe superb 148 he madeagainst Woodend in April, 2024 as he embarked on arescue mission

In companywiththe in-form Matt Barake,a third-wicket partnership of 114 withRileyplaying an array of strokes at HarleyHammond Reserve, and Gisborne wasback on an even keel.

Rileyenjoys making runs, and moreruns, and has playedcricketin India and England (twice) to further his young career

He wasthrilled to win theSullivan Medal forthe best playerin the GDCAlast season, emulating his older brother

Gisborne finished up scoring 8/286 c.c. against Broadford. Barake 48 and Warren Kelly41werefine contributors.

Broadfordbatters struggled against Gisborne's attack, andwere dismissed for114 from 36.2 overs Paceman JayKing collected three wickets, and Jarrod Catania and Leigh Brennan each twofor the reigning premiers. –Bill West.

Women’s cricket

Thesecond round of Kookaburra women's cricket took placeonSunday. In the closest match, Lancefield Black scored 2/142 in 20 overs (Luxanne de Koch 51 ret., Abbie Sarginson 44 notout, NatJeffrey 25) and Macedon replied with 3/149 (Kym Riley50ret., Amelia Harrison 27 notout,Sam Grobler 19 –Meaghan Lyons 2-30).

Gisborne scored 4/116 c.c. (Ruby Watts51ret.– Rhiannon Jordan 2-9) and restricted Melton Centrals to 3/59). KimorevDarley(forfeit).

Woodend go down

Woodend McIntyreCup 1sts suffered their first defeat forthe season on Saturday, with Sunbury United batterschasing down 9/191 c.c. with three overstospare

Batting first, Woodend wasled by skipper

Marcus Stewart who compiled 74, continuing his good form.

Ollie Pricemade 41, and Jacques Du Toit a quick 25, with MaxHannah doing damage to collect 4-39 forUnited.

It wasanyone'sgame, and despitean early wicket United stayedwithin striking distance.

TheWoodsmen needed wickets, but they did notcome (a technical hitch stopped full details of the United innings being posted).

Eventually thevisitorscompiled 4/193, making amends fortheir loss against Macedon.

Promoted thisseason, Wallan scored its first win by making 177 (Hamish MullaveyClark 52, BryanVance48) then bowling Rupertswood out fora disappointing 134 (Ned Crotty 30 —Mitch VanDeDuim 3-23, SteveBell 3-27).

Welcome back,Tim! An unbeatenhalf-century helped rescue the Cats.

Spot on bowling: Corey Daytook4/11 from nine consecutive overstogive his side abig chance.

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