Castlemaine Football Netball Club's women's football sidehas onceagain etched its name into thehistory bookswith aresounding 27-pointwin overrival Golden Square in the AFL Central Vic Women'sgrand final under lights at theQueen ElizabethOvalonFriday night. TheMagpies earned legend statuswith the fourpeatinfront of avocal crowd of local supporters. See the full story on page47.
JennyDenton
Threemen chargedoverriots at the Malmsbury YouthJusticeCentreinOctober 2023 were arraigned in the County Court on Thursdayand pleaded guilty to aslewof chargesrelating to theviolentand chaotic events.
Isaac Hindmarsh, 20, Michael Hailu, 20, and Malith Arou, 21 were among fiveof13 co-accused who were over 18atthe timeof the riot.
Each pleaded guilty to asingle countof violentdisorder,armed robbery and reckless conduct endangering life, multiple counts of aggravatedburglary and falseimprisonment and twoofproducing an intimate image, among other charges.
Thecourt heardthatonOctober 3, 2023 the group of 13 inmatesarmed themselves with improvised weapons, threatened staff and stole keys,passes and radios, which enabled them to access other parts of the prison, wheretheyset on rivals, bru-
tally bashing and humiliating them, while livestreaming their actionsvia video.
Later, theyheld Youth Justiceworkers and Parkville Collegeteachersatthe site hostage.
Theriotisnow the subject of legal proceedings initiatedbyWorkSafe, who chargedthe DepartmentofJusticeand Community Safety last month with failures under the Occupational Health and Safety Acttokeep the workplacesafe.
Court documentssuggestthe riotwas
sparked by the frustration of residents of the Monash unit overthe delayoftheir scheduled transfer thatday to the newly built Cherry CreekYouth JusticeCentreand the forceful restraintofone of their friends.
According to theprosecution, the broader background wasthe escalating hostility between youth gangs from Melbourne’s north-west and south-eastern suburbs, which had extended into Parkville and Malmsburyyouth justicecentres.
Continued page4
Trentham has been officially named Australia's TopTinyTourism Town at the Australian TopTourism Town Awards.
TheHepburn town claimed the title up against some formidable competition, including Robe (SA), Kalbarri (WA), Huskisson (NSW), Stanley(Tas) and Town of 1770 (Qld).
This national awardcomes after winning the 2025 Victoria TopTourism Town in the Tiny Tourism Town category in July 2025.
Trentham wonthe gold award, while Huskisson took silver and Town of 1770 wasawarded bronze.
Mayor, Cr DonHenderson,
said the title wasa remarkable achievementfor Trentham andthe region.
"Weare incredibly proud and excited to seethe benefits this will bring to our communityand local businesses,"hesaid.
"Trentham stands outfor its naturalbeauty, charm,community spirit and visitor appeal. This coveted national awardisrecognition of Trentham's unique tourism offerings."
Hepburn ShireCouncil worked closely with Destination Central Victoria (formerly DaylesfordMacedon Tourism)onthe application and promotional video.
TroutOpeningComp– Lake Daylesford Sign Up Day– Five FlagsHotel
Yellowbelly/RedfinComp– Loddon River
Club Meeting– Five FlagsHotel
MidlandShield –LakeEppalock
Christmas Party– Five FlagsHotel
Murray CodOpening Comp -Gunbower
Australia Day WeekendComp– Location TBC
Competition– Location TBC
Club Meeting– Five FlagsHotel
Labour DayWeekend Comp –Bridgewater
Competition– Location TBC
Competition– Location TBC
Competition– Location TBC
Club Meeting– Five FlagsHotel
Annual GeneralMeeting –WestEnd Hall
Macedon Ranges Shire Council'sBiodiversity Strategy is due fora refresh, withcommunity feedback invited on nativeplants and animals.
In arecentreviewofthe 97 actions listed in the currentstrategy,which wasadopted in 2018, almost all actions have been completed. Some of those actions include the shire-wide annual high-threatweed control program, aRoadside Conservation ManagementPlan, and an annual biodiversity monitoring program.
Across the shire’sclose-to-1750 square kilometres, public landcovers 10 per cent and includes 517 hectares of council-managed bushland reserves, plusvarioussmaller conservation and waterway reserves.
TheMacedon Ranges is also home to manythreatened fauna species –suchas the brush-tailed phascogale and powerfulowl –and since2018, an additional 60 species thatare likely to occur in the shire have been up-listed to athreatened species, under either state or federal legislation. Feedback is invited via ashort survey until Saturday, September 20. Visit: yoursay. mrsc.vic.gov.au/biodiversity-strategy-refresh
Just threemonths afterthe opening of Castlemaine's newWoolworths supermarket, the town is settosee theopening of another major retail outlet.
Castlemaine's newReject Shop will open its doorsthis Thursdaymorning, September 11.
Local residents have been keenly watching the developmentofthe newstore at 112-116 Barker Street in recent months and therewas ahugeamount of speculation about whatthe newoffering may be. Opinions rangingfromAldi to Maccas and another bottle shop to KrispyKreme Donuts.
In earlyJune our sister paper the Castle-
maineMail learned the newspacewas set to houseiconicAussiebrand –The Reject Shop.
However, news brokelast week that after44yearsserving the keen bargain hunters and budget-conscious members of the Australian community, TheReject Shop wasboughtout by Canadian discountgiant Dollarama IncinJuly andisset to geta revamp and rebrand.
Theexterior of the newCastlemaine storehas the traditional Reject Shop signagebut aspokesperson forthe discount brand confirmedthe interior shelving of the storewas fitted out in the newlook Dollarama colour schememaking it among ahandful of Australian stores to featurethe newlayout.
TheWoodend Men'sShed will be celebrating another year of mateship, activities and servicewithanOpen Day at the Shed on Saturday, September 13, from 10am to 2pm. Theinvitation is open to all who want to drop in fora chat, cuppaand sausagesizzle.
Thegroup –who's agerangeconsists of men anywherefromtheir 50s to 80s –is seeking otherswho want to join their weekly gathering to socialise and work with their hands.
Currently,the team is undertaking acomplete restoration of the heritageseats situated in MountMacedon Memorial Cross Reserve.
Enquiries to 0418 322 680 or email info@woodendmensshed.org
Thenew 'supermarket style'grid layout features long, parallel aisles. Dollarama has also registered dozens of local trademarks as it gets settointroducea swag of new brands and productstothe Australian market
Dollarama reportedly has hugeplans for TheReject Shop brand withlower prices, better products, anew name withstores to be rebadged Dollarama, and almost doubling its sizeto700 stores by 2034 –which would make it amassivenational chain as big as Aldi or Colesand could posea threat to Aussie rivals such as Kmart and Target (447 stores)and BigW(179 stores).
Thegrand opening of the all newCastlemaine storewill takeplaceat8.30am this Thursdaymorning. Watchthis space!
Sub-contractors and suppliers in Bendigo and centralVictoriaare invitedtoregister their interest to be partofthe Bendigo ArtGalleryredevelopment
The $45M project is the largest infrastructureprojecttobedelivered by the City of GreaterBendigo.
All registrationswill be shared with potential head contractors,sothey
canbepartofthe
TheMountAlexander Seniors Festival runs from 1to31 October.
This year’s theme is ‘Connect. Create.Celebrate.’ It encorages olderadults to embrace positive ageing and take part in eventsand activities close to home
Enjoyfreeand lowcostevents designed to help you connectwith fellowcommunity members andembrace new experiences.
Sign up forlifedrawing, naturewalks, chair yoga, live music, community lunch andmore.
Forprogram details, call Castlemaine Community House on 5472 4842 or visit their websiteatcch.org.au.
From page1
At Malmsbury,detainees associated with the ‘OGK’,‘BDK’ and ‘SSO’ gangsfrom Melbourne’s north-west were housed in the Monash and Deakin units, while the supportersofopposing gangs, largely from the south-east, were putintothe Topaz, Coliban and Lauristonsections, court documents state
According to theagreed version of events, the mayhem began thatTuesdayat about 2pm when twoMonash unit detainees intimidateda Youth Justiceworkerinto opening acleaningsupply cupboardand armed themselves with broom handlesand a vacuum cleaner pole.
Afterstaff tookrefugeinthe unit’s‘fishbowl’ office,offendersbeatonthe windows with their makeshift weapons and challenged Safetyand Emergency Response Team (SERT) membersto“do something” about it.
While workerswerenegotiating with membersofthe group who were demanding iPads, other inmatesofthe unit were covering CCTV cameras with sauce, setting offthe alarm by breaking the firesensor and sprinkler and “fortifying” the corridor
Meanwhile, in the Deakin unit shortly after3.45pm, detainees gotholdofa worker’s keys by producing asharpenedpen and threatening to kill her withit.
Agroup of sevenDeakin unit detainees, including Arou, Hinmarsh andHailu, then armed themselves with broom and mop handlesand madetheir waytothe Monash unit, prompting “cheering, handshakingand hugging” as the twogroups united.
Afterdiscussing whattheyshould do next, the co-offendersdecided to “goget” oneoftheir rivals.
As the group of 13 -who had changed their clothes andcoveredtheir faces -ran through the complexontheir waytothe Topaz unit, four Youth Justiceofficersbarricaded themselves in an office and eight workersand teachers locked themselves in a toilet, hiding pairsofscissorsinthe cistern.
Over the course of about an hour the cooffenderslocated, unlocked, cornered and brutally attacked fivevictims in the Topaz unit, hitting them repeatedly with sharpened broom andmop handles, stabbing, kicking and stomping on them, pulling out the hair of one and spraying andsmashinganother with afireextinguisher
Threevictims were latertaken to hospital and onewas treatedbyparamedics, with
injuries ranging from broken fingersand fractured facial bones to knocked out teeth, bruising, blurred vision and haematomas.
In twoincidents victims were made to kiss each other while their assailants streamed them on video, laughing and taunting them with comments such as, “Gay ass niggas!”
Oneyouth wasalsomade to strip naked and dance,then wasparaded naked alonga fenceline with afellowvictim whose hands were tied behind his back.
In another confrontation ayouth was forced to repeat “F**k East Side!” and to makea‘West Side’gangsymbol while viewers of the streamed video cheered.
Victims were also forced to singand kiss the feet of co-offenders.
Thegroup had stripped the workershiding in the toilet of their keys and radios and laterforcedthem outofthe toilet, spraying a firehydrant throughthe room’s vent,causing them difficulty in breathing.
Theworkers were then told to sitata table and were locked inthe building.
At about 5.15pm the co-offendersused staff as coverinanattempt to access the centraladministration building, and were stopped by ablockade of SERTmembers, prompting astand-off in which afemale YouthJustice worker and male teacher had sharp objects heldtotheir necks, and the teacher waspunchedtwiceinthe faceby Hindmarsh.
At about 5.30pm, with the SERTmembers refusing to withdraw,the co-offendersbarricaded themselves into the education building,together with agroup of YouthJustice workers andteachers.
As SERTmemberssurrounded the building and sprayedcapsicum spray towardsit, the offenders demanded their hostages “get into the spray”and one waspushed into it.
Soon afterSERTmembersopened the doorofthe building and four of the hostages escaped. Theotherswerethen removedby the SERTcrew, who continued using capsicum spray to oust the offenders, who were resisting and throwing chairs.
According to courtdocuments, the 13 were pulled out one by one and “patted down”toretrieve the stolen swipe cards and keys,ending the four-hour-long violentsiege Arou, Hindmarsh andHailu, who areall in custody,will return to courtfor sentencing and further pleas before ChiefJusticeAnne ChambersonSeptember 15 and November 26 and November27respectively
Working together forahealthy, connected shire mountalexander.vic.gov.au (03) 5471 1700
Repairstothe KynetonLightHorse statue at KynetonPoliceStation took place last week afterits structurehad collapsed.
Aworkeratthe scene confirmed the statue had cavedinand wasbeing rebuilt, dispelling rumours of criminal activity being involved.
Aresidentinitially contacted the Express withconcerns the fallen statue wasrelated to recent events in the media. Some wondered it mayhavebeenapolitical protest as the plaque mentions Palestine, or that it mighthavebeenananti-policesentiment given the recent deaths of twoVictorian Policemembers, Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart and DetectiveLeading Senior Constable Neal Thompson.
Theplaque on the KynetonLightHorse statue reads: "Unveiled on 31 October 2014 (Beersheba Day)tomark the anniversary of the Charge by the Australian LightHorse against the Turkish garrison town of Beersheba, Palestineon31October 1917.
This statue also commemorates the formation of the KynetonMountedRifles in December 1859, which subsequently amalgamated to form the PrinceofWales LightHorse and the other MountedRegi-
TheKynetonLightHorse statue wasbeing repaired last week.
ments thatserved during theGreat War 1914-19."
Last night, the KynetonTownHall was also lit blue to honour Waart-Hottart and Thompson who were shotand killed by alleged gunman Desmond Freeman.
MayorDom Bonanno said it wasimpor-
Lifeline Loddon Mallee invites youtoregister to participateinanupcoming Domestic ViolenceAware workshop in Castlemaine. These places arefully funded, so thereisnocost to attend.
TheDVAware workshop will be held on TuesdaySeptember 16 and offers adeeper understanding of the complexities of domestic and family violence. Attendees will learn about the impact of family violenceand howtoRecognise the signs, Respond safely and Refer effectively
Formoreinformation about training opportunities visit www.lifelinelm.com/start-training
To register forthe Castlemaine workshop visit www.dvalert.org.au/cselif07971
We will have on offer:
• 60 VarietiesofFuchsias
• 20 VarietiesofHerbaceousPeonyand PeonyItoah establishedin20cmpots
• 10 VarietiesofTreePeonyestablished in 20cm pots
• ManyVarietiesofRareand Unusual Trees andShrubsinlarge pots includingLilacs, Magnolias, justtonameafew
• We have gathered many varietiesof plants from ourgrowers that we know our customerslove, includingVirginiaCreeper, BostonIvy,and so much more
• AndPerennials, toomanytomention
Saturdayand Sunday 10 am till 4pm
Starting from the the 5th and 6th of September 2025, then every weekend thereafter.
• We will have bulbssuchasIxia, Sandersonia,CallaLily, etc. to name afew
This is an excitingnew extension to our existingmail-order/specificshownursery, andwelookforward to welcomingyou to browse,haveafew laughsand look at plants that arerarer,and perfectfor ourclimate. Come andvisit us at WhiteHouse Nursery
691AshbourneRoad, AshbourneVIC 3442
Formoreinformation please phone: Jesseon0419002 651
Parkingatrearofproperty.Pleaseuse thetoilets in Woodend before youcome, as we don’thavethe facilities on site
tanttohonour the fallen officers
“Our local policeare pillarsinour community and arethe firstpeoplewecall on in times of crisis. Their dedication, courageand commitmenttokeeping us safe, and the bravery thatsits alongside that, is heroic,”Bonanno said.
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
Didyouknowyourchildmightbeeligibleforfreedentalthroughagovernment
TheGisborne VintageMachinery Society and Macedon Ranges and District MotorClub have banded together to host a'funday'.
Theevent will be held on Sunday Oct. 5, atthe Gisborne Steam Park from 9am and include aswap meet with vintagetrinketsfor sale, aminiaturetrain ride and car show.
Food and drinks will also be available.
Part of the proceeds raised on the day will support The Men's Stable charity organisation.
Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil'sDraft Reconciliation Plan has sparked questions about local government'srole in improving FirstNation relations.
do something to have apositiveimpact for this group of people and if we can't measureit, then Idon't understand whyweare doing this at all,"hesaid.
Achoice of pathways to suit learning styles& aspirations
To learn more about the Senior School environment and available pathways, join one of our regular College tours -bookings essential. For all enrolment enquiries contact the College Registrar, Rowena Rokesky-Alder.
Adopting the draft5-2 last month, the strength of the documentand lackofdirect action came underfire. While some councillorscalled it a"beautiful guide"others felt it was"more likelip service"
TheDraftReconciliation Plan 20252029 aims to guide reconciliation with FirstNations peoples through education and awareness, and building connection. It replaces the Reconciliation Action Plan 2021-2023.
Moving its adoption, Cr Jennifer Anderson said the document wasvaluable for strengthening relations and partnerships.
"Wedoknowthatthe Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islandersare well belowinso manyareas and thereare so manygaps. This helps the community understand those gaps and work withthe Traditional Ownerstoknowwhatwecan do,"she said
Cr CassyBorthwick said thedocument wasa powerful instrumenttoguide procurementand improve connection.
"I see this document as areally beautiful guide in terms of 'how we do'. Sometimes thatisn't alwaysmeasurable,"she said
"I don't believe forone minutethatthis is atokenistic gesture."
However, Cr Daniel Young wasless optimistic about the document, referring to it as "morelikelip service" andnot addressing real problems.
"I feel some of thechanges (toanearly version of this document) have actually takenout real action items and it'sbecome just meaningless,"hesaid.
Cr Young voiced concern about financial implications of theplan, lack of costing and lack of measurable goals.
"The outcome of this planshould be to
BothCrYoungand Cr Kate Kendall raised the currentstate-wide Treaty talks thatwerelikely to result in changefor councils in howtheyapproach FirstNations relations.
MayorDom Bonanno votedagainst adoption of thedraftand raised recent instances wherehequestioned thedirection of FirstNations relations.
"Myconcern is thatthe priorities appear to alignmoresowithour three Traditional Custodians' priorities and notthe wider Macedon Ranges community'sstrategic priorities,"hesaid.
"I, too, am concerned about thecost to thecouncil, theexploration of enhancements to council'sprocurement policy and the rise of Indigenous corporations and howtheyhelp or assist our local population thatidentifies as Indigenous."
Cr Bonanno also raised concern about divisiveness, drawing on the example of aseparate 'Indigenous health'entrancetoahospital he recently attended withhis ill father "I thoughtatthe time it wasinteresting, but on reflection we'vegot this segregation happening based on whether you're Indigenous,"hesaid.
"I believe in appropriate acknowledgementand certainly respect to allpeoples whether you'reIndigenous or not, but Ido have concerns about the divisivenatureof thepaththatweasalocal government and we as astate aretaking."
Adivision recorded councillorsinfavour of endorsing the documentwere: Borthwick, Anderson, Joseph andScanlon. Those opposed were:Bonanno and Young, while Kendall abstained from voting. On leave, Cr JanetPearce did notattendthe meeting.
RobGuthrie has been elected to Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil, following the Victorian ElectoralCommission's countback of formal ballotpapersfromthe last general election.
Thecountback wasconducted last Mondaytofill an extraordinary vacancy in the SouthWardfollowing thedeath of Christine Walker last month.
Voteswereredistributed to candidates in the SouthWardwho were unsuccessful at the 2024 general election, and who remained eligible to participate in the countback.
RobGuthrie, aformer councillor in the last term, has accepted the nomination and will begin in the role of councillor onceheis officially sworn in this week.
MayorDom Bonanno welcomed Guthrie back to thecouncil and said he looked forwardtoworking with him.
"Following Christine’s sudden and sad passing, Iacknowledgeitischallenging circumstances forRob to come into –we'll support him in the role,while still remembering Christine’s positive contributions and the legacy she has left," he said
CEOBernie O’Sullivan echoed the mayor’ssentiments, adding thatGuthrie wasanexperienced councillor and would "no doubtquickly getuptospeed"
–Deceased EstateAdministration/Probate
–Preparation of Enduring
Local author and writing educator Sandy Watson will launchTrenthambased workshops this month to help aspiring and beginning authorstake the next steps towardstheir writing dreams.
Thepublished author has been teaching writing at leading universities in Melbourne and Singaporefor morethan adecade.
“Weall have astory to tell –a book idea thatwon’t leave us alone, afamily history or historical drama or even acrime-based novelthatwe want to write,"Sandy said.
"The workshops aredesigned to help locals who want to take their next steps –and move beyond the blank pageorwaiting screen to get thatbook started.”
Theinaugural workshop on September 11 will covercreative processes of starting and shaping your book, including brainstorming, storytelling, character and plot.
Dreaming about writing thatbook but likesomehelp to getstarted? Find out moreand register at www.sandywatson.au/writermeetstory or call Sandyon0401 714 880.
Looking foryour inner author?
Writing Workshop, Trentham. ThursdaySeptember 11, 2-5pm, in theCosmopolitan HotelWine Room.$45, $30 concession. Foraspiringand beginning authors.
Allwriting genres welcome. Sandy Watson will launch Trentham-based writing workshops this month.
Mount Alexander Business Awards
2025
Nowisyour time to shine!
Theawardsrecognise the businesses leading the wayin shaping athriving Mount Alexander
Enter your businesstoday–it’squick andsimple. Entries close Sunday21September.
Outstanding Workplace
Innovation and Technology
Accessibility Champion
NextGen Champion Environmental Impact
Sustainability Hero
Local Food Excellence
Enter online at: www.mountalexander.vic.gov.au/Business-Awards or scan the QR code
Jade Jungwirth
Barry Lacey wasone of those indescribably special people who leavesa mark on you. In thelastfew months of his life, Barry gave onelast gift to those left behind –atransport bus forthe aged careresidents at Dhelkaya Health.
Barry and his wife, Jenny, relocated from Melbourne to Newstead in 2001, wheretheyfirmlyestablished themselves in the community, andthe garden!
Despitereceiving aParkinson’s diagnosis in 2009 (along witha variety of other health concerns), Barry continued to live lifetothe fullest,teaching tai-chi to the local community, running regular bonsai workshops, and as an active member of the local men's shed thathe founded.
Threedaysbeforehis 75th birthday, Barry hosted aliving wake.The 'Festival of Barry’sLife' wasa memorable gathering of shared memories, tearsand laughter.
Thefollowing year,ashis health declined, Barry movedintoEllery House, ahigh-careresidential aged careunitat Castlemaine's Dhelkaya Health.
When the twohospital transport buses stopped running, Barry,who relied on the transport forregular visits to the Men'sShed in Newstead, took action and contacted the local BendigoWest MP MareeEdwards and organised forher to attend ameeting with the aged care residents.
Ms Edwards, who metBarry 15 years earlier when he wasadvocating forthe Men'sShed, attended the careunitto meetwith the residents and advocate for support.
Mareetold the Express thatthe bus
wasBarry'sonlyoutlet –helping him to gettoNewstead forhis dayout.
"Hewas so open to helping people all the time and having thatengagement withhim when Iwas first elected, to get the Newstead Shed up and running, cementedthe strength of our relationship," she said.
"Hewas apassionate advocate forhis community,helovedhis bonsai, in fact, in the office we used to call himBonsai Barry,hewas just awonderfulhuman being,"she said.
Hisdaughter, Tanya Lacey, said her last conversation with her dad on the Wednesdayafternoon before he died wastosay,"We gotthe bus,"withhappy tears.
"I would just hope thatthe Ellery House staff have ahappy memory of dad advocating fortheir residents,"she said.
Dhelkaya Health CEOSue Race said everyone wasdeeply saddened by the passing of Barry and gave their heartfelt condolences to his family
"Barry wasa true character,known for his strong spirit and unwavering commitmenttothe wellbeing of others,"she said
"His advocacyfor awheelchair-accessible bus wasjust one example of his dedication to improving lifefor those in Ellery House and the wider community Thebus stands as atestamenttoBarry and the collectiveefforts of our staff, residents and local leaders.
"The wheelchair accessible bus will soon makeits debut in the community, transporting residents forsocial outings and appointments."
Barrydied on August 21. While he nevergot the chancetoride the bus, his memory and legacy continue with every journey.
MostworkersinVictoria qualify forlong service leave after7yearsofcontinuous service with one employer–this includes casual workers.
Theaverage leave entitlementafter 7 yearsofservice is over6weeksso, for employers,itpaystoplan ahead.
MountAlexander ShireCouncil is inviting local businesses to sharetheir story and nominate forthe 2025 MountAlexander Business Awards.
Theawardscelebratethe people and enterprises thatdrivepositivechangeinour local economy– through innovation, care, sustainability and community connection.
The2025 awardcategories include:
–Outstanding Workplace
–Sustainability Hero
–NextGen Champion
–Local Food Excellence
–Accessibility Champion
–Community Impact
–Innovation and Technology
–People’s Choice
–Business of the Year
Council’smanager of economyand culture Merryn Tinkler said every business had astory and this wastheir chancetotell it.
“The awards arenot about being the biggest or loudest –they’re about recognising the impact local businesses have in shaping athriving and inclusiveshire,”she said.
Theentry process is straightforwardand designed to be accessible to all.
Businesses areencouraged to speak intheir ownvoice –noneed forperfect wording or polished imagery.Whatmatters is sharing whatdrives your work, howyou supportyour team and community, and what makes your business unique.
An independentjudging panel will assess submissions and develop ashortlist of businesses forsitevisits. Finalists will be selected based on both the writtenentry andthe insights gathered during visits.
Council encourages all businesses to consider entering, noting thatthe process itself can be avaluableopportunity for reflection and recognition.
To help businesses preparetheir entry,
CentralVictoria is offering afree one-houronline information session tonight, TuesdaySeptember 9, at 7pm.
Thesession will offerpractical guidance on presenting your business clearly and confidently.Jointhe session via Zoom at www.mountalexander.vic.gov.au/BusinessAwards.
To be considered forany awardcategory –including People’s Choiceorthe overall Business of the Year –businesses
must submit an official entry form. This is required even forthose nominatedbythe public.
Entries close on SundaySeptember 21.
Theawardsceremonythis year will be held on WednesdayNovember 19 at Boomtown Winery and BistroatThe Mill, Castlemaine.
To enterorfind out more, visit www mountalexander.vic.gov.au/BusinessAwards.
Forfurther information, contact Daniel Bone, economic developmentcoordinator, on 5471 1700 or email
d.bone@mountalexander.vic.gov.au
TheMountAlexanderBusiness Awards arerun by MountAlexander ShireCouncil withthe support of wonderfulsponsors and partnersincluding gold partnerDon and principal media partner Midland Express and Castlemaine Mail
Bill West
A25-year-old Macedon Ranges resident has become the first female to ever win amuchsought-after annual awardinthe Victorian electrical industry
Romsey'sBonnie Saunderswas applauded at the glittering 2025 Victorian apprenticeawardspresentation evening held by the National Electrical and Communications Association at CrownPalladium on Friday, August 29.
Herwin means she nowrepresents Victoria in the forthcoming national awards.
TheApril 29 function attractedabout 600 people, and Bonnie wasthrilled to be presentedwiththe NECA fourth year Commercial-Domestic Awardofthe Year
"I wasreally proud to win this award, as I'veworkedhardina tradethathas really capturedmyimagination,"she said.
"I'm very proud to be the first woman to win this."
Just afew weeks ago, Bonnie graduated as afully fledged electrician afterfour years of extensivework and study
Afterleaving Gisborne Secondary College, Bonnie tackled avariety of jobs, and her messagetoyoung females in the local area is nottobeafraid to consider trying atrade, and ensureyou have agood work ethic.
Working on the hugeMetro Tunnel withthe renowned Nilsen Electrical companyhas been the highlightofher apprenticeship.
"Workmateshavebeenreally good,and I'velearnta lotaboutelectrotechnology," Bonnie said.
FormanymonthsBonnie has been working nightshift,leaving Romsey in the afternoon and returning late.Accepting her prestigious award, Bonnie expressed appreciation to her family and friends, and fellow workers, fortheir ongoing support.
Nowshe has just completedher apprenticeship, further challenges lie ahead, and Bonnie said she felt comfortably entrenched in the industry
While the awardshe received is the most importantinher career,she recalls being surprised when back in 2022 she received the female electrical apprenticeofthe year awardfor Victoria and Tasmania. This wasfor excellenceintrade training and on-the-job performance.
Last year she wasjudged as the AEN Apprenticeofthe Year.Bonnie wasalsorunner-up in the latest Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil Young Citizen Award.
There'sachancetoviewthe revamped OldKyneton Primary School during aspecial Community Open Day
Thesitewill be open to visitorsonSunday, September 14, as part of the final dayoffestivities forthe KynetonDaffodil and Arts Festival.
"The festival is ahighlightofour annual calendar,and it provides awonderful opportunitytothrow open the doorsofthe OldKynetonPrimary School and bring the sitetolife– indoorsand outdoors,"Macedon MP MaryAnne Thomas said.
Visitorscan viewthe site’snewly renovatedspaces while enjoying family-friendly activities including amusements forchildren, apetting zoo, performances and artist showcases.
The$12 million projecthas restored the school’s heritagebluestone building, creating aspacefor art, creativity and community,and built anew contemporary centralbuilding to provide awelcoming entry
forvisitors.
Theformer library has also been transformed, now suitable fora rangeofcommunityand creativeuses while the school’sgrounds have been revitalised with landscaping, including 3000 newplants.
TheKynetonDaffodil and Arts Festival will be the first eventtobring these newindoor and outdoor spaces to life.
An expressions of interest process is currently under wayfor ahead tenant/operator forthe historic site.
Proposals aresoughtfromparties with acompelling vision and suitable experience to shapeathriving hub in the heart of Kyneton, including those thatwill provide opportunities forKyneton’screativeindustries, community groupsand local businesses, and complementand enhanceKyneton’stourism offering.
EOIs close on Monday, September 29. Information is available online via: creative.vic.gov.au
Tourism Macedon Ranges Inc. invites business owners, tourism operatorsand community leaderstoaninspiring business breakfast on WednesdayOctober 8, from 7am to 8.30am at the NewGisborne Sports Pavilion in Hamilton Street
This eventwill focusonhow collaboration and strong local connections can boost business performanceand strengthen communities.
Themorning will featureKathryn Mackenzie OAM, ahighly respectedadvocate forregional Victoria’s business and tourism sectors. With morethan20yearsofexperience in creating opportunities and driving growth, Kathryn will shareprovenstrategies and practical insights to help local businesses attract morecustomers andwork together forgreater impact.
Attendees will gain practical ideasfor growing their business through collaboration, insights into howstronglocal networks can boost visibility and customer engagement, and opportunities to connect with like-minded operatorsand communityleaders.
Adelicious buffetbreakfast will be provided by FedFoodStore,Kyneton,with freshly brewed coffee from Rafaels Coffee.
This eventisproudly supported by Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil and Community Bank Gisborne and District
Ticketsare available nowat: bit.ly/tmr_bb
Lancefield will serveasthe idyllic countrytown backdrop foranupcomingtelevision commercial featuring severaldogsinthe back of aToyota.
Filming took placeatvarious locations in High, Park and Reynardstreets last Wednesday.
While it is expected the town will be shown "generically" with anylarge signage removed, it is nothardtosee whyLancefield wasscouted as the idyllic town forthe shoot.
Welcometoyourregular column, featuring news, tips and recipesfromthe Castlemaine CommunityHouse and GrowingAbundancecommunities and networks.
Castlemaine Community House is avital and much-lovedcommunity hub —a welcoming placefor young and old, wherevisitorscan makeconnections, learn newskills, participate in community activities, receivefreefinancial advice, bring acommunity group together,access acommunitypantry, sharea meal, proudly provide ongoing auspice forvarious community projects and much,much, more!
OneofCastlemaine Community House’s projects is theGrowing AbundanceProgram, which createsa viable local food system, by harvesting from local farms and gardens and sharing the producetokey food relief distribution points. It also leads the newFood Relief Network, which operates across the shire.
Growing Abundancehas alongand fruitful association with TheCastlemaine Seed Library
Last year Growing Abundanceran acommunity Seed-Sowing day, which the CSLsupplied seeds for, to getthe summer vegetables started early.The day wasabig success, so it is being held again this year
Everyone is welcome to join in this community seed saving day, on SundaySeptember 21 at the HubGarden, 9.30am-12.30pm.
Therewill be asharing of seeds, potting mix and expertise to getyour seedlings started, as well as morning tea. If youhaveseeds to shareand plantseedling trays/pots, bring them along.
This is afreeevent,although donations to theCastlemaine Seed Library areappreciated.
Eliza Jane Gilchrist, the Castlemaine Seed Library coordinatorand champion, said thereweren’t short instructions to save seeds, because each plant had different requirements.
“The main requirementfor the Seed Library is to keep seeds in paper bags, notplastic, in case they arenot totallydry,inwhich case they can go mouldy!” she said.
Borrow Seeds arelocatedinthe Castlemaine Library,which is part of the Goldfields Libraries. Check-out up to threeseed packetsatatime. Record your loan at the counterand getgrowing!
Grow
Followthe growing directions on your seed packet.Most of the seeds arelocally grown and thereforeadaptedtodowellinthe local climate
Save
Letsome of your plants go to seed. Follow the directions on the seed packettosave some. Collect, dry,cleanand clearly labelsome seeds. Save some foryourself and bring some back to Castlemaine Seed Library
Return
Theeasiest waytoreturn seeds is to use thereturns boxonthe seed boardinthe Castlemaine library or givethemtoone of the friendly Library staff.The team repacks them readytobeborrowedagain.
When returning seeds
•Ensuretheyare clean and dry
•Label with common name and variety
•Dateharvested
•Include your name and contact details if youwould like.
Castlemaine Community House is awelcoming hub that supports and connects the community Growing Abundanceissupportedbythe Victorian Governmentthrough the Community Support Fund.
PeterRyanand Gillian Gorrie areboth artists at ArtonPiper.Their jointexhibition cameabout when Peter, aphotographer, wasmusing with Gillian, awatercolour artist, about howhewould likesomeone to painthis images. Notcopythem, butpaint their interpretation of them
Gillian jumped at the chanceand said "Let’s do it as acollaboration, combining our skills to create beautiful art pieces"
Peterisa well-travelled landscape photographer.Hetaughtphotographyand imageprocessing for12years at Macedon Ranges FurtherEducation Centre in Gisborne.
Gillian taughtceramicsatsecondary schools around Victoria. Aftertravelling and working in potteries in Wales, Scotland and South Africa, Gillian returned to set up her ownpottery business. Interest in brushwork and line as aform of decoration forher pots developed into alove of watercolour.Gillian also nowteaches watercolour painting in theMacedon Ranges.
Peterand Gillian selected the images together and identified amediumPetercould printonthatGillian could also painton.
In Pacific Heron,Petercapturedanimageofa birdina gum tree at Eyre Creek inthe Simpson Desert and printediton watercolour paper.Gillian then completed her interpretation of the background using sketchtechnique. Other pieces in the exhibition show further variations in technique
KynetonAirfield hangar ownersare calling fora purpose-fit documentand lowercosts fortheir lease arrangements with Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil.
Hanger ownerssay the KynetonAirfield has been unfairly compared to much larger airports in theassessmentand aprevious negotiatedagreement(discussed before public consultation)was better fitting.
Theproposedstandardised leasing agreementwas released forpublic consultation in last month with a10-year term and 10-year add on option.
Historically,the lease documents forthe airfield hangarshavevaried significantly depending on when thelease began.
Rental amounts arealso inconsistentwith variations depending on the age, the sizeapplied to thehangarsand whether the leases had fixed percentageorCPI-based annual rental increases.
Council'sproposalincludes liketerms and same rental rate on adollar per squaremetres basis forall leases, regardless of previous arrangements. Rental amountshavebeenassessed by aregistered valuer
Thecouncil received 56 submissions. Last week, hangar ownerswho had made submissions raised concerns withcouncillorsat Submitters DelegatedCommittee Meeting.
Hangar owner Warren Canning said past errorsofcouncil had meantcosts were incorrectly escalatedinprevious lease agreements.
Mr Canning said the council had tried to justifyits proposed newratebycomparing
KynetonAirfield with largerairports suchas Bendigo, Benalla and LaTrobe.
"The infrastructureand services available at those major airports is in no waycomparable to thereality of asmall local airfield such as Kyneton,"hesaid.
"Further,the proposed rate fails to recognise thatunlikethose major airports, Kyneton Airfield is maintained by volunteers, aero club membersand hangar sitelease holdersand notlocal council. Hangar sitelease holdersare also contributing to infrastructure improvements forall usersatthe airfield."
Hangar owner AlanSaunderssaid the Hangar OwnersWorking Group hadprepared afit-for-purpose lease arrangementwith lawyer advice. He said the desireofa small number of memberstoincrease their lease beyond nine yearssaw the council'snew proposal and communityconsultation.
"We'dliketoreturn to that documentthat the working group prepared,"MrSaunderssaid.
FellowsubmitterMikeFisher said no one wasdisputing the 10-year offerbut it was "simply amatterofhow it'sachieved"
Theairfield has 34 privately owned hangarsthattypically house about 60 aircraftand 33 activehangar leases.
Aground lease is forthe land councilowned componentonly and the tenantis responsible forany buildings and related ongoing maintenance.
MRSC is expectedtomakeadecision on the KynetonAirfield hangar lease arrangementata futuremeeting.
The Outside the Box exhibition runs until November 5atArt On Piper,44Piper Street,Kyneton. An official opening will be held on September 13 from 2pm– 5pm.
Wombatjoeyincare.
Mindy MacLeod, MountAlexander WildlifeWatch
When wasthe last time yougenuinely felt aspiritofunity sweep across Australia?Was it back in the eighties when an overexcited (orpossiblydrunk) Prime Minister famously blurted out: "Any boss who sacks anyone fornot turning up todayisa bum"after the America’s Cup? Or when Kevin Rudd finally delivered the national apology in 2008? For me, it wasWombatgate:thatmomentlast year when everyday Australians flooded social media to condemn aclueless American tourist forTik-Toking aclearly distressed babywombatawayfromits screaming mother,all fora photoop. Wombatasselfie prop. Andanation of outraged Australians briefly united by disgust. Because mostofusknowbetter. Wildlifewarriorscome in manyshapes and forms but this self-proclaimed 'wildlife biologist' from the USAdefinitely wasn’t one. Most Aussies understand thatseeing wildlife in the actual wild is aprivilege. Snap aphoto, sure(withoutgetting tooclose)but please don’t interfereunless the animal is trulyin trouble. These arenot plushtoyswandering about forour entertainment. Those furry fluffballs areliving creatures– oftenaggressiveones –with teethand claws.And while I mightn’t muchcareifanenraged wild animal manages to biteorscratch you, it does actually matter if one is physically or emotionally damaged or even orphaned by the actions of athoughtless individual looking for‘likes’on social media. Don’tmess with the marsupi-
als. Don’ttry to cuddle the koala, kiss the little kangaroo or patthe pretty possum
There’snothing cuter than ababybrushtail (Gremlins!) but the first time Itook one home, as alicensed wildlifecarer,I woke up wondering who had released Jurassic Park into my spareroom. This pint-sized possum wasscreaming, roaring, forits mother.And just likethe velociraptors theymightsound like, their claws grow fast and they’resharp enough to shredyour face.Evencutelooking koalas arenot cuddly teddy bears (incidentally,they’re notevenbears).They sleep formost of the dayand theycertainly don’t want to playwith you. Or your kids. Andcertainly notwith your pets.
Obviously,you shouldn’t walk past an animal that’sclearly in distress (see our article in Midland Express July 15) or an obvious orphan. Butknowthis: most wildlifeinthe wild is perfectly fine without us. Leaveitalone. Andifyou do findanorphanedjoey, don’t cart it home as apet foryour kids to play with. That’s notrescue– it’sneglect.Local carersare exhausted by people who scoop up wildlifefor afew days of fun only to drop offa weakened, malnourished animal afew days later. These creatures need specialised care, special diets and immediate attention. They don’t need to be treatedlikea furry doll forchildren or child-likeadults.
So please do the rightthing. Admirethem, respect them and protect them. Andunless theygenuinely need help –leave them wild. It’s unfortunate, but the most dangerous animals in thewild aren’t the marsupials. It’s the people.
TheMacedon Ranges WildlifeNetwork has celebrated the overwhelming success of its inaugural Foundations of Macropod Rescuetraining, made possible through thegenerosity of the Qantas Regional Grant Program.
Forty participants from across Victoria —and even one from NewSouth Wales —took part in the full-day workshop, led by renowned macropod expert Manfred Zabinskas. While the training wasoriginally designed forMRWNmembers, the demand from rescuersin other regions wassostrong that, thanks to theQantas funding, the opportunity wasextended beyond the Macedon Ranges. Forone NSWparticipant,the event provided access to specialised training thatsimply wasn’t available in their state
Theneed fortrained rescuershas neverbeen greater. In 2024 alone, MRWN volunteersattended morethan 3000 wildliferoadstrikecases,withkangaroos and wallabies making up roughly 70 per cent of all call-outs. That’s the highest rate of wildliferoadstrike in Victoria and adevastating statistic that continues to climb. Acombination of drought, developmentpressures, increased road traffic, andexclusion fencing is pushing wildlife out of their traditional homelands and into more visible areas —often grazing roadside MRWN rescuersare self-fundedfirst responderstothese tragic and oftenhorrific incidents, manyofwhich occur between dawn and dusk. Motorists canhelp reducethe toll by driving withawareness and using their peripheral vision during these high-risk periods.
Meaghan Willis, MRWNcommittee memberand grantcoordinator,saidthe Flying Kangaroo washelping real kangaroos and volunteer rescuers.
"This granthas allowedustoinvest in specialist training to givekangaroos the dignity theydeservewhen they’reinneed —not only hereinthe Macedon Ranges, but across the state," she said.
"Without Qantas’generosity,wesimply couldn’t have metthe demand forthis essential training.”
Macropods were also acentral focusinMRWN’srecentpresentation to theParliamentary Inquiry into WildlifeRoadstrike, wherethe organisation called forurgent, coordinatedaction to reducecollisions and improve outcomes forbothwildlifeand road users.
As roadstrikenumbersrise, the skills and equipment gained from this training will directly benefit countless animals in the yearsahead. Theprogram’s success has laid the groundwork forfuturecourses, ensuring more rescuersare readytorespond when wildlifeneed them most.
In 2025, 47 applications were awarded funding from Qantas, selected from arecordbreaking 2900+ applications nationwide —making MRWN’ssuccess aremarkable achievement.
Morgan Reinwald
Wildlifevolunteersare calling on Mount Alexander ShireCouncil "to getserious" and prosecute irresponsible dogownersafter an off-leash dogattacked and killed akangaroo in Castlemaine's township. Theprotest comes amid MASCproceedings to revise localpet laws
MASC'scurrent2022-2025 Domestic Animal ManagementPlan reports, "council’s first priority in regardtodog attacks is to take steps to protect thecommunity from future attacks by the same dog"
It also defines this dog-attackas"serious" and statesananimal can be declared “dangerous”ifitcauses serious injury to another animal. This would requirethe dogtobeaudited by council and have amuzzle, lead and adult handler at all times in public. Thedog attack in question occurred at the beginning of July and escaped a"dangerous" conviction after council deliberations concluded last month.
AMASC spokesperson advised the Express it was"notappropriate to declarethe animal dangerous" and cited the doghad no prior history.Theydeclined to disclose howmuch the fine was, but notedits owner made a donation to thewildlifeshelter of their own accord "council have completedtheir investigation which resulted in fines forhaving adog offleadand forthe attack on thekangaroo," said MASC spokesperson Georgina Johnston. "Officershaveeducatedthe relevant par-
ties in responsible petownership."
Thecurrent Domestic Animal ManagementPlan ruled sevendogsweredeclared dangerous overa four-year period.
WildlifeRescuer IanSlattery estimatedthe number of injured wildlifehehas attended –due to dogattacks –tobeinthe hundreds overthe past 15 years.
"Council needs to getserious about prosecuting ownersofdogsthatare notunder controland attack wildlife,"Slattery said.
"And I'dmakea second point, and that is council needs to embark on acommunity education campaign through the likes of newspapers, forexample, saying that 'council will be committedtoprosecuting ownersthat don't have their dogs under control'
"I spoketocouncil aboutthe [Castlemaine] Botanical Gardens because thereare kangaroos down there. Anddogsare supposedto be on the leads, but theyoften aren't. Isaid to council,'youneed to do twothings. You need to put up signage at the gardens, saying it is an offencetobewalking your dogoff lead, and afine will apply'.And Isaid, 'you also need to enforcethose provisions'
"Totheir credit, they have putsigns up,but nowtheyneed to enforceit."
Under the Domestic Animals Act1994, Victorian councils must preparea plan outlining howitwill managedogsand cats within itsmunicipal boundaries every four years.
MASCiscurrently reviewing their local laws fortheir 2026-2029 Domestic Animal ManagementPlan.
It's no joke –he'sa Cavoodle with the name Google. Andlike most who have adog andspeak to them in aweirdtone, made up language, or babyvoice, Google's named has morphed over the years. It became Goog,thenGoo-Goo, to Boo-Boo, and somehowitisnow,Boo-Boo-Ma.
Hisbest friendEshan adoptedhim because he –likemanyof us –was lonely during the COVID-19 pandemic. Having recently settled in Victoria forthe first time, Eshan wasalone during lockdown without anyfamilyorfriends to see. Thus, he adopted Google and to this daythe twohavebeeninseparable. Quite literally
Eshan is one of those people who can takeany conversation on politics, sex, or religion and makeitabout Google. Andwhen he goes to theshops, work, afriend's house, or on holiday, Google is going to be there. If Google cannotgo, Eshan won'tgo. It's as simple as that.
When he lived in the city during COVID-19, he wasn't allowedtohaveGoogle off-leash in his old apartmentlobby.This becameanissue because he didn't owna leash –Google had neverneeded one. So whatdid he do?
"I movedout," Eshan said.
"Google is my family.Heisall Ineed in life."
Forthis reason, Google has been crowned Petofthe Month forSeptember.Heisgreater than the internet. He exemplifies the best of whata petcan be –our favouritefamily member
Howtotrim acat’s nails safely: Choose the righttime –trim when your catiscalm or sleepy, notwhen they’re playful.
Useproperclippers–cat nail clippers or small human nail clippers work best. Handle gently –hold your catsecurely but nottightly; youcan wrap them in a towelifneeded.
Expose the claw– gently press the top and bottom of the pawtoextend the nail. Avoid the quick –trim only the sharp, clear tip of the nail; stop before the pink area (quick) to avoidbleeding. Work in short sessions –trimjust afew nails at atimeifyour catisrestless. Reward after– givetreatsand praise to makenail trimming apositiveexperience.
Malcolm:
“Ifthe dogistrained and well-behaved, then absolutely.When Itravel to thecity and see adog in the pub, it’smaking everyone’s day.”Anne: “Nobecause some people mighthaveanallergy to theanimal and theycould getaggressive.”
Alan:
“I likedogs. I’vehad dogs. Butno.”
Rosemary:
“Definitely not. It’s ahygiene issue. They groom themselves. Yuck.”
Charlotte:
“I think dogs should be allowedintoshops but it all depends. They need to be calm. If so, Istrongly believe theyshould be letin.”
Timm:
“Itshould be up to thepremises to makethatcall. Then it is up to thecustomers whether theychoose to attend those premises.”
Kaylene:
“Yes, Irather dogs than humans.”
Do youhaveapet worthyofthe crown? Each month the Express shines the spotlightona much-lovedlocal companioninour Petofthe Monthfeature. Whether it'sthe family dog, alazy old cat, chirpybird, bunny, horse,lizardorturtle, it doesn't matter,wewanttohearall about it. Andyou can have the chancetoshareyourpet with the rest of the region and have them featured in the paper.Toenter,email a photo and ashort bioabout your pet’slife, quirks and personality.And don't forget to include whytheydeservethe title. Take alookatGoogle the Cavoodle belowfor inspiration and email acrawford@midnews.com.au
Aftera sold-out performancefor Castlemaine Jazz Festival last year,the TheatreRoyal is excited to welcome back atrue icon of Australian jazz –VinceJones –this SundaySeptember 14.
Nicknamed Australia’s national treasure, multi ARIA-awarded VinceJones –vocalist, trumpeter and songwriter –isone of the most belovediconic voices in Australian music.
Formorethan fivedecades he’s carved out a singular spaceinour musical landscape, blending cool jazz, soul and sophisticatedsong writing with a lyrical honesty thatspeaks straighttothe heart.
From his breakthrough in the early 80s to creating the highest-selling Oz jazz album to date, Come in Spinner (much lovedABC TV Series soundtrack), to performing at leading European and US festivals, Vinceisrecognised as one of the country'smost influential artists forhis trumpeting as much as his deeply expressivevocals he doesn't just interpret songs he inhabits them! With 25 albums to boot, he continues to setthe benchmark forAustralian jazz.
Vincetold the Express his love of jazz music was nurtured from an early age.
"Myfather and mother were jazz lovers,the music in thehouse wasjazz or classical. My dad told me he took me to seeLouis Armstrong as ayoung boysitting on his shouldersinGlasgow.Mylove forjazz improvisation has flourished as I’ve gotten older," he said
Vincestarted out playing trombone and then the cornetinthe brass band at age10.
"Mydad lovedtrumpetand he taughtmetoread music. My mum wasa singer,she could sing any song ever written, she had extraordinary natural music ability. My dad and her had aduetwhere theybothplayedtogether.I sawthem playing at parties, it wasthen IknewIwantedtobesinger," he said.
Vincehas gone on to perform around the world through Europe andthe US, and said performing at Montreaux would have to be among his favourite gigs.
"Itwas awonderful feeling playing alongside the world'sgreat musicians and being introduced by Quincey Jones.
"I love to playoriginal music, the band has become well known forits original songs. In Europe we were becoming successful forour original sound/songs. Iwas in LosAngeles and Iheardthe our music on the radio and Ifelt so proud,"hesaid.
When asked about his topthree favourite albums and artists of all time,Vincesaidtherewere so manygreat albums it washardtopick from them.
"I think John Coltrane's Blue Train,Miles Davis' Kind of Blue and ArtBlakey andthe Jazz Messengers' On the Ginza but if youask me tomorrow I’d pick three differentalbums!"helaughed.
Vince's Come In Spinner wonthe hearts of thousands of Australian households, selling over half amillion copies in thedecade of its release and making history as the highest-selling Australian jazz album of all time.
Forticketstothis afternoon matinee performance, which swings into action at 4pm, visit theatreroyalcastlemaine.com.au/music
TICKET GIVEAWAY
TheExpress has adouble pass to give away to this incredible show. Simply drop in an evenvelope with 'VinceJones Tickets' and your name, address and contact numbertoour officesat 3Market Street Kyneton or 13 HargravesStreet Castlemaine before this Friday September 12 at 5pmtogointothe draw. Thewinner will be notified by phone. Thewinning ticketswill be available forcollection from the boxofficeatthe TheatreRoyal.
TheNational Insect Expo is fast approaching and this year's eventpromises somerather unusual visitorsthatwill meet and greetthe public.
Giantblowfly charactersalong with their juvenile maggots will be thereperforming awonderfulpuppetry presentation highlighting the importantrole thatflies playinthe breakdown and recycling of nutrients backtothe environment.
Things of Foam and Wood have puttogether this exciting showand have taken them nearly ayeartocreatetheir puppets in order to have them ready forthe expo
Expo director Bert Candusio said the performances would offera newexperiencetovisitorsatthis year'sevent while also supporting the performing artists themselves.
"Not only will we be having anew aspect to the expo this year in the form of the puppet presentations, butwewill also be featuring other liveperformances by Gone Buggothroughout each day. Theinsect artsare ahighlightthis year," he said Exhibitorsare already getting their displays organised and thereare manynew exhibitorsatthis year'sexpo. This means thatthe public will see their displays forthe firsttime. Also, the expo will have students of the National BugClubsharing their insect projects and workbooks on their owndisplayarea and areall excited to be apartofthe expo forthe first time.
TheNational Insect Expo will be again held at theBuffalo Stadium,Woodend on the weekend of October 3to5,10am to 5pm daily
Artist Maxine McKeecreates acompelling story through sculpturethatresonates withuniversal experiencesofabandonment, grief, andultimately,closure.It'sa powerfulnarrativethatencourages viewers to contemplate the complexities of lifeand the protectiveforcesthathelp us flourish amid challenges.
TheCrow series intertwines personal themes withrich symbolism.
Black ceramiccrows stand as symbols of temptations, and distractions, as theysurround the garden.
Historically,crows have been seen as messengersofthe divine, bridging the mortal and ethereal realms. Their association with both wisdom and the macabrehighlights their dual nature, making them timeless symbols of mysteryand revelation. This duality invites reflection on life'sdelicate balance, the inevitability of change, and the profound knowledgehidden within the natural world.
On shownow in the Grounded 2 exhibition at Trio ArtStudio and Gallery at Kyneton.
Open every dayfor theKynetonDaffodil and Arts Festival, then normal gallery opening times until September 21.
KynetonHandweavers and SpinnersGroup areholding their displayand sale on Saturday13-14 in the side room at the Mechanics Institute, 10am to 4pm. It is agreat opportunity foryou to see awonderfuldisplayofitems such as scarves, shawls, beanies, hand spun yarn and much more. It's also achancetopurchase early Christmas presents. This is notadisplayand sale of theFingersand Toes Festival, which washeld on Saturday, September 6.
Black ceramic crowsstand as symbolsof temptationsand distractions.
With an ecclecticmix of preloved, men's andunisexclothing, footwear andaccessories, also books, artand homeware items.
Well heretheygoagain. Theowners who were previously known in Piper St fortheir shop L'Echeppe and then Damoss Interiorsand Apparrel areback at it for one moreride. Their shop doorsclosed doorsinJune aftera wonderful 20 years of trading, howeverwhen theyopened the vault theydiscoveredagreat range of goodies and decided to do apop-up shop. Theviewing pleasure will be agreat opportunity to purchase awide rangeof fabulous items, including designer men's and unisexclothing, shoes and accessories, homewares, books and art. Everyone is invited to drop in fora meander and achat. Theorganiserstold the Express, "wewould love to seeall our wonderful previous customers, and of course, new ones too"
Thereare fewcomicsinthe world withthe tenacityand killer instinct of Austen Tayshus, the manwhose made acareer out of an ability to take anyroom hostagewith just the tongue. Thecomedy superstar first appeared to audiences in 1981 and cut his teethinthe LA comedyclubscene. Andsincethenhe'sbecome amovie star and travelled the world for laughs. At his shows youcan expect relentless comedy thatistopical and dangerous. Now, localaudiences will getthe chance to see him on his latest Australian tour.You won'twant to miss thisexperience. It's achancetohear someonesay whatisotherwise notallowedto be said.
SUNDAY
Ross Colliver, RiddellsCreek PlanningGroup
Thedecision to put acar-dependent suburb of small lots at the edgeofRiddells Creek is as predictable as it is stupid. After sevenlong yearsofcontesting the proposal, residents of Riddell have learned one thing the hardway –the planning processisthere to facilitate whatdeveloperswant.
Council staff consistently said the developers’ plansticked all the boxes, and ought to be allowedtoproceed. Fora moment, shirecouncillorslistened to theconsidered opinion of residents and refused the developer’sPrecinct Structure Plan.The developer,naturally,wenttothe Minister Aftera three-week public hearing wherethe developer and the Shirewentto-and-froon the specifics of the deal, the Minister waved the proposal through.
Riddells Creekofmodest scale now facesadoubling of the town population. Thereare fewplans forcoping with that expansion. Council’s decision to fund a masterplan forthe recreation reserveis agood move,but we need plans forroad infrastructureand forthe town centre Every dollar required will have to be wrung from thestate’s stretched coffers, from Shirerates, or from the here-today, gonetomorrow special projects thatfloat out of our national government.
This is whatplanning forrural towns consists of:planning forhouses. Housing Melbourne’s multitudes has become an easyexcusefor waving through the spread of maximum-yield suburbs across the
Local knowledge (1 point)
1. LocatedinCastlemaine, whatis MAAW an acronymfor?
2. On which street is the KynetonFoodbank located?
3. Whoisthe local artistbehind the art exhibition thatcelebrates thewomen who established Castlemaine Art Gallery?
4. Which of its servicecentres willMacedon Ranges ShireCouncil close? (3 points)
5. Which local firebrigade recently celebrated acentury of service?
General knowledge (1 point)
6. Whoplayedwealthyinvestment banker PatrickBateman in the 2000 adaptation American Psycho?
7. In which country wasNapoleon Bonaparteborn?
8. Wherewas the Incanempirecentred?
9. Thephrase “Maybe she’sbornwith it...”ispart of which make-upbrand’s marketing? (3 points)
10. Which of the following countries is notbordered by the Adriatic Sea: Montenegro, Italy,Croatia, Slovenia and Türkiye?
landscape. That is notplanning forliveable communities.
What could arural town likeRiddells Creek become?For sevenyears,all the planning muscle and expertise at hand failed to deliver aserious conversation about the design of our town. Can we grow and have ourrural character evolve?Maybe. We’resmart people. We movedherefrom places thatgrewtoo fast. We travel, and we see the good and bad of the ways urban life has been setupinother places. Perhaps we could invent away to grow ourpopulation while keeping whatwevalue about living here– open skies, adecentbackyard, a placetobreath, afriendly town.
With the Amess Road development, thatconversation wasnot even begun. The urgent cry to house Melbourne's multitudes has become apoorexcuse forunimaginativethinking and the imposition of decisions from Spring Street
John Horan, Romsey
Re.'Anzac funds refused again'(Midland Express,TuesdaySeptember 2).
Your article starts by pointing outthat the state governmenthas mandatedthat traffic managementplans be submitted for approval before Anzac Day marches maybe held.
Butyour article indicatesthat'anew local policy' has preventedthe Kynetonand Malmsbury RSL Sub-Branches from being grantedlocal governmentfunds fortraffic managementplans.
Thereason given forrefusing the applications is that; 'Bothapplications were
initially auspiced by the KynetonRSL,a gaming venue, which meant theyconflicted with the council'sGaming Harm Minimisation Policy'.
The'bush lawyer' in me thinks that, as gaming venues areapprovedunder astate governmentAct of Parliament, areclosely monitored by the State'sVictorian Gaming and Liquor Licensing Commission and also must meetscrutinybythe Australian Taxation Office and by Australian Charities and Not-for-Profit Council, howisitthatthe council'spolicy can be used to trumpthe State'sAct,rules and regulations relating to gaming venues?
Theirony of this is thatthe state governmentreceives funds from ticket sales to the AFL Anzac Daygamebetween Essendon and Collingwood and these funds are known as the 'Anzac Day Proceeds Fund' or the 'Anzac Day CommemorativeServices Support Fund'.Thisispublic money, held by the state government, and is to be made available to local councils to coverthe costs of traffic managementplans forAnzac CommemorativeServices.
As maybeseen from the final paragraphs of the article, policeand emergency services memberspreviously assisted withtraffic managementonAnzac Day but aVictorian Governmentdepartmentdirected that traffic managementplans were required and thatthese needed to be designed and conducted by qualified personnel. The council thenvoiceddisappointmentatthe lack of governmentfunding forthis changed requirement.
When apractical viewofthe whole drama is considered, RSL sub-branches in the Macedon Ranges area have been conducting the commemorations fora number of
yearswith little variation in the timings, locale or duration. Thereare only fivesub-branches thatconduct marches in theshireareaand it is wondered whytraffic plans need to be '. designed and conducted by qualified personnel?' Do newplansneed to be submitted each year?
Whycan't these plans be prepared by a council staffmember with associated wages forthis staff member,when working on the trafficmanagementplans, be reimbursed from theAnzac Day CommemorativeServices Fund?
Belinda Ryan, Baynton
On SaturdayAugust 30 we attended a fabulous concert at the Lauriston Hall.Valley Road –Marty McKennaand Rebecca Howell –sangsongs from both their first CD and songs from their soon to be released second CD.Marty and Rebecca’s heartfelt musicianship wasappreciatedbyall.Local singer/ songwriter,Ben Gallagher as support act also delighted the crowd
Congratulations to the Lauriston Hall Committee fororganising such awonderful concert, the delicioussoup wascertainly appreciated.Communityhalls canbethe cornerstone forlocal communities and indeed Lauriston has overmanyyearsorganised events to celebratecommunity and welcome people of allages.
It is wonderful to see local halls across the Macedon Ranges thriving and continuing to engageand vitalise communities. Well done Lauriston Hall Committee!
Watchout fordetails of another concert at Lauriston in November
TheMacedon Ranges Truth and Reconciliation Group welcomes the adoption of Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil’sReconciliation Plan 20252029 at the council meeting on August 27, despitedissentfromthe mayorDominic Bonannoand Cr Daniel Young.
TheMacedon Ranges is hometomanyplaces of cultural and historical significanceacross the lands of the Wurundjeri WoiWurrung,Taungurung and DjaDja Wurrung Peoples.
As we arepoised to welcomeAustralia’s first statewide Treaty herein Victoria, council'srenewedcommitmentto“ashared futurewherereconciliation is an ongoing journeyweare committed to walking together” is to be commended.
MRTRGwelcomes council'scommitmenttoeducation and awareness building fornon-Aboriginal people in ourcommunity to learn about the histories, cultures and lived experience of FirstNations people, and to creating acommunitywhereeveryone belongs by acknowledging and valuing the voices of Traditional Owners.
Thecouncil'sapproachtobuilding respectful relationshipswith Traditional Owners andconsidering feedback and inputfromthe local community through developmentofthe plan is encouraging. MRTRGlooks forwardtosupporting actions and ensuring accountability foroutcomes thathavebeen committedto.
MRTRGwas disappointedwithsome of the views expressed by dissenting councillors, including Cr Bonanno, whose comments on reconciliation initiatives as ‘divisive’ echo political approaches thatseek to undermine efforts towardstruth, treaty and justice.
While we teach our children rightfromwrong, and pride ourselvesas anation on fairness, it is importanttoquestion whysomestill actively reject movestorightthe wrongs perpetrated against First Nationspeople and ensurefairness and justiceprevails. Themayor's derision of First Nationshealthcareservices as ‘segregation’isparticularly concerning, given the enduring gaps in healthand lifeexpectancyexperienced by First Nationspeoples.
Views such as these expressed by dissenting councillorshighlightthe need forcontinued awareness and understanding about the lived experiences of FirstNations people –the stories, findings and recommendations shared in the Yoorrook TruthBeToldReport into the historical and ongoing impactsofcolonisation areessential reading forall ourpolitical representativesfromlocal council to stateand federalMPs Council’s Reconciliation Plan, although notanofficiallyendorsed Reconciliation Action Plan (byReconciliation Australia)is another step on the long journeytowards truth, healing and justice. MRTRGwelcomes all those in thecommunitytoconnect with our group to learn moreand get involved webcast.mrsc.vic.gov.au/archive/video25-0827.php www.yoorrook.org.au/reports-and-recommendations/reports Writersare askedtokeepletters toa maximum of 300 words. Longer lettersmay only be published at the editor'sdiscretion. Names,addresses and contact phone numbersmustbeincluded for verification purposes
Email lettersto: acrawford@midnews.com.au
September 2025
Whether it’safriend, family member, partner,orcolleague,the people around us through life’sups and downs every day. That’swhy we want everyone to feel confident to check in with the people they careabout and Ask RU OK?Any Day.
We would like to thank all of these participating businesses for their generous support of this worthy cause.
Make time to check in.
6Kyneton Springhill Road, Kyneton 3Beds/ 2Baths /5Car $1,350,000
House
4Oak Ridge Court, Kyneton 3Beds/ 2Bath/ 4Car $875,000 -$925,000
House
3635 Burke and Wills Track, Mia Mia 3Beds/ 1Bath/ 2Car $1,050,000 -$1,150,000
RayWhite Kyneton| 54222127
97 Pipers Creek Road, Kyneton 4Beds /2Baths /4 Car $1,250,000 -$1,350,000
Unit
1/28 Lauriston Street,Kyneton 3Beds /1Bath/1 Car $600,000 -$650,000
House
6Blanchfield Drive, Kyneton 4Beds /2Bath/6Car $1,400,000 -$1,450,000
RAY WH IT EK YNE TO N
ThinkingofLeasing or Selling? Let’s Do It Together.
At Ray White Kyneton,webelieve great resultscome from genuine partnerships.Our experienced team works closely withyou every step of theway,combining local knowledge, tailored strategies and honest advice to achievethe best outcome.Whetheryou're ready to sell,lease or just exploring your options,we’re here to help.
This 186-acre propertyfeaturesgently undulating terrain with twostreetfrontages and is ideal forhorse breeding, cattle, sheep or alpacas.
Thehighly productiverich soil and six dams make cropping another option. Zonedrural/residential.
This magnificentlandholding is predominantly
cleared but with awind break tree line plantedfor maximumcomfort without impeding thestunning views.Building asubstantial homeora cottage ‘weekender’ willprovidea tranquil lifestyle just minutes from the town of Woodend with its shopsand cafesorthe V/line quick commutetoMelbourne.
Property: 186 acres of rural/residential land
Address: CrownPortion 49 Tylden-WoodendRoad, Woodend
Price: $3,000,000
Agent: Raineand Horne
Contact: JudithStevens 0438 683 484
DEVELOPMENT IN WAITING
•Approx.2996m2 of Residential zoned land with 3street frontages and 13 Crown Allotments.
•Enjoyinganelevated position overlooking the Wesley Hill Market and beyond to Happy Valley and Moonlight Flat.
•All main services currently connected to the site with existing improvements ie. shedding, old residence/café with NO heritage overlays!
•Withinafew minutes walk to walking trails and recreational amenities. FOR SALE $895,000
Tucked away in apeaceful pocket of Edgecombe, just ashort drivefromKyneton'sbustling town centre andrenowned Piper Street precinct,this beautifully renovatedhome offers the ultimate balanceofcountry living and town convenience. Set on approximately 28 acres, the propertyhas been thoughtfully designed and upgraded to create a warm, efficientand highly liveable residence, surrounded by rolling paddocks and ruraloutlooks.
Thehome presentswithcharm andcharacter, featuring four bedrooms (three plus astudy), two bathrooms and inviting living areas thatwelcome naturallightthroughoutthe seasons. Solid timber finishes and athoughtful renovation have ensured the home retains its personality,while modern comforts makeday-to-dayliving easy. Full insulation, double-glazed windows andacombination of split systemheating/cooling and awood fire create year-round comfort,while solar panels and solar hotwater with gas booster add efficiency and
sustainability. Outdoors, the property is well setup fora lifestyle in the country.Ample watersupplyis provided through multiple tanks totalling 35,000 gallons, alongside aborewithwindmill feeding paddock troughs.Irrigation is in placefor both the gardens and the established olivegrove,while shedding includes adouble garageplusa second shed accommodating twocars.
With 28 acres at your disposal, thereisspace to run stock, establish further plantings, or simply enjoythe beauty of wide open land.
Thepropertyoffersa wonderful sense of peace and privacy,yet with the Calder Freewayjust minutes away,you'rewithin easyreachofMelbourne while still being close to Kyneton's cafes, schools, shops and rail.
Forthose seeking aready-made lifestyle property with nothing left to do but move in and enjoy, 53 Pickerings Lane represents an opportunity nottobe missed.
Property: Renovatedhome on 28 acres
Address: 53 Pickerings Lane, Kyneton
Price: $1,400,000 -$1,485,000
Agent: RayWhiteKyneton
Contact: NathanialBriggs
Nestled in the quietcharm of Lauriston Street,ona 363sqm (approx.) parcelsteeped in history,Legana stands proudly on bluestone foundations, acharacter-filled cottagedating back to theearly 1900s.
From the moment youstepthrough the whitepicket gate andfollowthe brick path to its welcoming front porch, the home greets youwith warmth, history and an unmistakable sense of belonging.
Inside, soaring ceilings and baltic pine floorboards carry youthrough afloor plan rich with heritagedetail —dadolined walls, four-panel timber doorsand threewell-sized bedrooms, each with apersonality of its own.
Twofront bedrooms featureornate, working fireplaces, perfect forcosywinterevenings, while the living room,
complete with its ownfireplace, forms the heart of the home.
Acharming, light-filled kitchen with farmhouse sink and glass-frontcabinetry overlooks the north-facing backyard, wheremorning sunlightspills over thegardenand apathwaymeanderstowardthe single-car garage.
This is morethan ahome, it’sa storywaiting forits next chapter. Whether youchoose to enjoyits 19thcentury character as is, or extend to suit amodern lifestyle, Legana offers an enviable position just ashort stroll from Kyneton’ssportsand aquatic centre,boutiqueshops, and schools. In one of the town’s most historic streets, this goldrush-erabeautyinvites youtoclaim apieceofKyneton’spast and makeitpart of your future.
Set on oneofCastlemaine's most prestigiousstreets, this beautifully preserved late 1800s Victorian miner's cottageoffersa rare blend of heritagecharm andmodern convenience.
From the momentyou arrive, you'll be captivated by the home's timeless character –classic period features, awelcoming frontveranda, and established gardens that echo the romanceofa bygone era.
Inside, discover three generous bedrooms, aformal loungewithtraditional detailing and original kitchen and meals area, rich with period charm
Updatedwiring and plumbing provide modern functionality and the laundry has ample storage.
Thereisalso aclassic bathroom andacharming outdoor toilet. Setona manageable block with rear access via Urquhart Street to asingle car space, this homeisas practical as it is picturesque.
Just ashort stroll from Castlemaine's vibranttown centre,enjoythe convenienceofnearbycafés, shops, schools and V/Line train services to Melbourne and Bendigo.
This propertyofferspermitted use forbothresidential and commercial purposes, making it ideal as acharacter-filled residence, adistinctivecommercial premises or asavvy investmentwith flexible purchase options, including vacantpossession.
Property: Charming Victoriancottage
Address: 147 Mostyn Street,Castlemaine
Price: $725,000
Agent: Belle Property Contact: RobWaller 0418 571130 NarelleWaller 0408 571 131
9Main Road, Campbells Creek.
4 a 2 b 3 v 1007r
•Luxurious and light-filled family homeona spacious1007m² (¼ acre) block in sought-afterCampbellsCreek.
•Thoughtfully designed interiorswith premium finishes, agourmet kitchen,zoned bedrooms, and year-roundcomfort.
•Full alfrescokitchen,large backyard, and secureside access.
ForSale
$845,000 View
Saturday13th September: 11:30am-12:00pm
RobWaller |0418 571 130
Blasi Mulholland |0417311 733
5Gallway Street, Castlemaine.
3 a 1 b 4 v 3424r
•Character-filled 1980s brick home on aspacious3,424sqm (0.84 acre) bushlandblock just 2km from town.
•Warminteriors with timber ceilings, exposed brick, and arefreshed kitchen overlooking the garden.
•Tranquil outdoor living with verandahs, gardens, and spacetogrow.
ForSale
$839,000 View
Saturday13th September: 2:45pm-3:15pm
RobWaller |0418 571 130
Blasi Mulholland |0417311 733
4River Street, Laanecoorie.
1 a 2 b 2 v 1w
•Contemporary1-acreretreat in Laanecoorie, moments from the LoddonRiver and surroundedbynature.
•Striking moderndesignwithlight-filled interiors, sleekblack kitchen, and spaciousbedroom and bathroom
•Outdoorliving with deck, firepit, studio, and dual streetaccess
ForSale
$480,000 View
Saturday13th September: 3:30pm-4:00pm
Blasi Mulholland |0417311 733
RobWaller |0418 571 130
Scan to viewour currentlistings
Covering the Macedon Ranges and MountAlexander Shires
Circulated throughout: Kyneton,Castlemaine,Gisborne,Malmsbury,Trentham,Woodend,Redesdale, Lancefield, Romsey,Macedon, Mt. Macedon, Metcalfe, Chewton, Harcourt, Newstead, Maldon, Taradale, Elphinstone, Campbells Creek, Guildford, Barkers Creek, Sutton Grange, Baringhup, Muckleford,Yapeen. ELLIOTT MIDLAND NEWSPAPERS
3MarketSt., PO Box153,Kyneton, 3444
Telephone: (03) 5422 1488
Facsimile: General (03) 5422 3173
13 HargravesSt., PO Box227, Castlemaine, 3450
Telephone: (03) 5472 1788
Facsimile: (03) 5472 4504
MondaytoFriday9.00 am-5.00 pm
MondaytoFriday8.30 am-5.00 pm
Email: Kyneton: ahume@midnews.com.au
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9
Lewis Guest �turns 13
Xavier Thomas Sieber-Hogg turns 8 Brooke Britton turns 8 Heidi Tilley �turns 3
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10
Lauren Ashford turns 12
Aidan Brasser turns 10
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 14
Evelyn Ryrie turns 9
NAME (PRINT)
ADDRESS.............
DATE OF BIRTH PARENT/GUARDIAN SIGNATURE
When we firstlearn to cook,a recipeis our lifeboat, and we follow it to theletter. As we begin to trust ourintuition,we need the recipeless and less, substituting an ingredienthere, estimating ameasure there, cooking morebyfeelthan by the absolutes of cups or grams.
Even when we cook like this,thereare scoops, spoons and vessels in our kitchen thatwelearn to knowand trust.
So too, with good compost practice, the moreexperienced we get, theless we need to follow the recipe. But, some loved and well-trusted measuresand vessels can really help us do the job well. Let’shavea look at afew of my favourites.
At YIMBY, ourcontributing households giveustheir food scraps in reclaimed 10-litrefood-grade buckets. Afull bucket of food scraps weighs fivetosix kilograms –not tooheavy formost peopletolift –but averagehouseholds giveus2.2kg per week. We use asharp spade to chop up the contents in the bucket before adding them to thecompost
What sizevessel doyou collect and carry your kitchen scraps out to the garden in?
YIMBYcompostersuse bathroom scales to weigh the food scraps in the bucketsbeforeblending them in the compost,processing about 35 to 50kg of food scraps eachweek –perfect forour continuous hotcompost system. Cool composterswon’t need anything likethis amount.
Have youweighed your weekly food scraps?How much doesyourhousehold averageper week?
We like to use a100-litretub (a half
200-litre barrel with rope handles)to soak dry,carbon-rich ingredients before blending them into the compost. Ineed afull tubofsoaked straw to balancea smaller (35kg) batch of food scraps, and mightneedtofill it twicefor abig weekly compost ‘segment’ (aswecallthem) Ihavea second ‘soak’ tub forautumn leaves. They’ll geta good wetting before going into the pile in summer,orifthe compost is feeling dryish. IknowI need at least one of these filled (plus thesoaked straw)tobalancethe nitrogen-richadditions in amedium-sized batchoffood scraps.
Ihavea rangeofother 35 to 50-litre big flowerpotsorplastic ‘totes’thatare greatfor abatch of aged wood-chipsor chopped up garden prunings to be the ‘structure’ our pile needs to keep thepile well aeratedand breathing freely It is only when Ihaveall these ingredients ready, roughly measuredout in their vessels, and soaked –ifneeded –that Istart layering up my compost forthe week.
My trusty Sherlock wheelbarrow is used to measureout thefinished compost going to thegarden. IknowI getseven barrow loads full from my largercompost bays,and just under six from my cubic metre(1000-litre)BeckleyBays. Do youhavesomefavouritewaysof measuring your compost ingredients?
–JoelMeadows works with *Yes In My Back Yard,(YIMBY), acommunity-scale composting initiativeinCastlemaine and surrounds. Send questionsorcomments to hello@yimbycompost.com, or to book in fora compost workshop.
Thefederal governmenthas urgedVictorians to be awareofanincreased firerisk this spring and to remain vigilantand prepared.
TheSeasonal Bushfire Outlookfor Spring 2025 wasreleased by the Australasian Fire and Authorities Council last week.
It provides information to assist fireauthorities to makestrategic resource andplanning decisions ahead of the fireseason.
Increased and median rangerisks have been identified in parts of the droughtaffected areas across the south west, west and centralareas of Victoria.
While other areas showa normal risk, communities areencouraged to remain vigilant and alert as deadly and dangerous fires can still occur during averageorbelow average seasons.
"The electorateofMcEwenhas along history of bushfires thathaveravaged our community.Wewill neverforgeteventssuchasAsh Wednesdayand BlackSaturday,"McEwen MP RobMitchell said.
"Asweapproach theend of the year,weknowthatthereisalwaysgoing to be an increased risk of severe weather,including bushfires.
"Itisimportantthatcommunities start thinking about their emergency planning and preparedness while theycan. Thereare so many things we candotoprepare forthe season. Likeestablishing afamily emergency plan or cleaning up around your home as these things all help in afireorstorm."
TheNational Emergency Management Agency is preparing and stands readytosupport states, territories and communities impacted by naturalhazards through spring.
Phone 0438 361 861
Repairing washing machines, dryers anddishwashers. LocatedInKyneton and servicing the surrounding areas, Including Castlemaine and the Macedon Ranges.Trustedserviceagentsfor topbrandslike Miele,Asko, Speed Queen, Electrolux, Bosch, Omega, Simpson, Dishlex, and Westinghouse. Simp www.kentappliancerepair.com.au kynetonappliancerepairs@gmail.com
Chris Mackenzie 0407 768477
HINNEBERG
Ernie 1.7.1942 -6.9.2025
Loved dadof Robyn (Barker), respected father-in-lawtoTim. Alifelived with respect, dignity and kindness. Time to breathe easy now dad. Tooloved to ever be forgotten.
HINNEBERG
Ernest Sydney Charles ‘Ern’ 1.7.1942 -6.9.2025
Lovedhusband of Mary (dec). Companion to Lyn. Much loved Dadto Pam (dec), Carol, Robyn, Craig, Lou &Gav Loved father-in-law toTim&Wendy Adored Pa and Great Pa. Mum &Dad
Passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. Belovedpartner of Pa. Loving mother to Von, Andrew and Ken. Adoring grandmother and great-grandmother Aprivate cremation has beenheld. To leaveapersonal message, please visit Marrionne’stribute page on the website of MountAlexander Funerals.
Janine left us peacefully on 30thAugust 2025 aged66years Adearly loved sisterofRussellTyzzer Adevoted mother to Daniel,David, Jessica, Laura andAdam and acherished Grandma. Her warmth and love will remain in our hearts always.
Please join with us to farewell Janine, in the Chapel of MountAlexander Funerals, 12 Campbell Street, Castlemaine on Thursday 11th September at 11.00am
To join with us via livestream, please visit Janine’stribute page on the website of MountAlexander Funerals.
(Sept
Kyneton
Section 29 of the FairTradingAct 1999 requires the inclusionofafullnameand address (not PO BoxNumber) –inall advertisements for the supply of goods and services.
ELLIOTT MIDLAND NEWSPAPERS advises all displayservice advertisements must comply with the above requirement to avoid prosecution, or provide those details to us to pass to the Dept. of Justice if requested.
Newstead CFA Community Market Saturday 20th Sept 8am -1pm NewsteadPark, Lyons St. Variety of stalls, food and drink Stallholders welcome, site cost $10. Ph: 0427506 843
12/L
Kyneton 5422 1488 Castlemaine 5472 1788
Afield of 46 turned outfor Saturday's stableford
Ross Stevens(14) handled the conditions superbly,and took outthe overall and Bgrade awards with 37 points.
Gavin Lang (7) topped A-grade with 36 points, one ahead of LesPrendergast (10).
PeterMangold (23) wonC-grade with 36, from Marty Cross(18) on 35.
Lang and Klai Jermyn were NTPs
In the Saturday9@9, SallyMcOrist (27) had 16 points to win on acountback from Mary Harris (31).
Thursday'spar eventtested 30 competitors, withLeigh Campbell (6) the only one to finish on the positiveside with +2, from Les Prendergast (10) +1.
John Beet (25) topped B-grade withan even score, one ahead of Kors VanEyk (26).
Jermyn and MatthewO'Brien had three birdies apiece, and Norm Bellisand Garry Rotteveel were NTPs GISBORNE
Dryweather and the chanceofwinning monthly medals broughtplayers back last week, but scoring well is still achallenge.
On Wednesday, 23 women encountered blustery conditions withLynne Smith nett 75 winning on acountback from Denise Dunn.
TheJim Thorpe Veterans on Thursday attracted 108 players,withAndrew Willmott 39 points topping A-grade from in-form Tim Maddern 35.
Best scoreofthe daywas 41 from B-grade winner David Tyquin, from LeeGovan 39. David Masterton easily wonC-grade with 38.
Thewomen's weekend monthly medal went to Jacqui Nelson nett 72, fiveahead of Kerry Peterson.
Thereweresome exceptions, but not manyfine scores from the167 men who playedonSaturday.
Thewind didn't worry C-grader (soon to be B) David Bakerwith the day'sbest tally of nett 64, from MauroCallegari 68.
Robert Lockey wonA-grade witha fine 67, from Maddern and ShaneMcPhee both 72. In B-grade, winner KevinIngram, Vic Papp and Dave Newton allscored73.
Thecontroversial last rounds (12, 13 and 14) of the Premier League were played on Saturday.
With six outofeightteams in the mix for finals, who knows whatorganiserswill have in storefor us. Watchhis space.
KYNETON
Whoneeds parstowin?Not Tony Borg who holed out from 60 metres fora birdie on the seventhbut didn't makea parinhis 9929-70 on Saturday.
Borg took offthe Macedon Ranges Glass monthly medal despitea shaky triple bogey on the 17th.
He wonbya stroke from Damian Summers 88-17-71 and NamikAkkurt81-10-71.
Borg also wonC-grade by three shots from Andy Moffatt(30) and Summerstopped B-grade by one from Kash Karunasena (16). Akkurt wasthe only playerwith nothing worsethan abogey on his card, and he won A-grade from MatHodgkiss 80-6-74.
Comeback of the dayinmorewaysthan one went to Simon Rosenberg(11) who has just recoveredfromahand injury and was able to grip the clubproperlyfor the first time in weeks.
He dropped plentyofshots afterstarting on the 10th, then lost just one moreinhis final eight.
NTPswenttoRosenberg, Hodgkiss, Col Hanna and Ross Martin (alsosuper pin).
MOORE ALLTHE WAY Saturday'scompetition completedthe Bolton Championship,decided by the combined best four of six medal rounds.
Dave Mooreset the paceand held on to win witha 12-overpar 292.
GeoffDalglish made up heaps of ground to come second,with Cam Hendy third. Thewomen's medal eventonTuesday went to Lorraine Ryan with 93-20-73, high-
lightedbyjust 28 putts
Ryan wonA-grade by fivefromJulie Harris (21), Judy Aldred103-24-79 edged out Marg Scoble (24) on acountbackinB-grade, and Judy Quick 104-27-77 claimed C-grade by ashotfromGrace Parkinson (27).
Terry Morley(28) wonthe nine holes with 15 points, andNTPswereMarian Orr, Jane Stanleyand RobMacRae.
Neville Yateswon both mid-week stablefords, beginning with asee-sawround on Wednesdaywhich yielded 34 points, one clear of Ross Martin who scored on every hole.
On Thursday, Yatescarded 19 points on the back nine with fiveone-putts to win by onefromBert Cottingham and Louis Thompson.
Last week began with 13-year-old Darcy Creer (28) winning the TuesdayLegends with 40 points.
Seeing he only took up thesport with a maximum handicap in January,rapid progress to a25handicap is areal achievement.
Women's monthly medal: Sheena Flentjar 102-32-70 from Kaylene Cruise 101-23-78 and LynMurchison 112-33-79.
ThursdayFix: Stephen Draper (17) 35 points from Ed Godek (15) 34 and Chris Enright (26) 30.
Saturdaymedal: Dean Budde wasin good form with 86-16-70, from Mark Cruise 94-20-74 and Jason Byron87-1275.
MOUNT MACEDON
Thefirst of the spring events,the Macedon Nursery and Garden Supplies Mug'o the Monthstableford,took placelast week.
Asolid turnout as usual with awelcome back to Mila Peniamina and Nifty Clark, who has wokenfromwinterhibernation.
Oils Flannery (16) took offthe mug and A-grade with 37 points from Walrus (13) on 34.
Mike Smitheram (22) topped B-grade with 36, from Henri Malakunas (29) and Karl Pongracic (19) both 32.
Severe winds made scoring difficult in the BlueyRussell Trophyevent on Saturday.
Darren Mantynen (8) wasthe winner with 38 points, from KevinTaylor (15) 34 and RobTaylor (20) 33.
NTPswenttoMantynen, David Watt,R Payne and P. Doyle
Matt Willis, long-time MountMacedon Golf Club president,stepped down from therole at Saturday'sannual meeting.
DarcyDoyle has taken over thepresidency
Theclubreported asuccessful year, with anumber of major projects completed.
As well as anew president, the club welcomed newcommiteemen in TerryBonello, Darren Mantynen, and DavidWatt.
TRENTHAM
It wasa tough battle forthe September medal on Saturday.
Theresult wasa three-way tie between A-grade winner David Thiele, runner-up Craig Cotton, and B-grade winner Trevor McKeon. Aplay-offwill eventuate.
James Connell wonC-grade with anett 71, and this also earned him the August medal in the play-offagainst DanSlater.
WOODEND
Afield of 67 turned out forthe monthly medal eventonSaturday.
Congratulations to MichelleJakovac who wonthe women's medal with 111-3873 from Jannaya James 114-39-75.
Andrew Davies and Dean Rose tied for themen's medal, and will need aplay-off to decide the outcome.
A-grade: Davies 70-4-66, from Jack Roberts 72-5-67; B- Rose 83-17-66 from Mark Hurst81-14-67; C—Michael Cunningham 90-23-70 from Marc Hatch 96-27-69.
Tuesdaystableford:Fergus Nevin(12) 38 points.
Lisa Dennis
TheCastlemaine SecondaryCollege's Year 11-12 Senior Girls soccerside is setto featureinthe 2025 School SportVictoria Secondary Football StateFinals todayat the Darebin International Sports Complex in abid to claimstate honours.
Thehighly competitivelocal side finished thirdin2023, second in 2024, and aredetermined to tryand takethe next step in 2025 and nab victory in the competition, which will pit them against someof the most talentedstate schools and private school sides in thestate.
The Express caughtupwith someofthe team members at their final trainingsession at the Castlemaine Goldfields Football Club's home ground at Chewton Soldiers Memorial Park last Fridayevening.
Thegirls, who rangefromyearnine through to year 11, said theyfeltthe best prepared theyhad ever been forthe comp thanks to thecoaching and support of the Castlemaine Goldfields Football Club Women's sides.
CSC team member Frankie said they'd had four training sessions at the Goldfields
club base and four lunchtime training sessions at school with four of the Castlemaine Goldfields Women's team players who madethe time to come andwork with them
"Ithas been fantastic. We hadfour different women'splayers work drills with us including Kaso Sparks and Sophie Milton who were both Young Matildas and have lots of experience and advicetooffer," Frankie said.
Theside is settotackle Ballarat High School, Brunswick Secondary Collegeand GreaterSheppartoninPool Bofthe round robin competition todayand hope to go one better than 2024 and bring homethe cup.
"Wefinished runners-up to Rowville, which is aMelbourne Victory Academy School, in 2024, so it wasaprettyamazing effort fora regional school. We hope we can go one better in 2025,"team member Elspeth said.
Meanwhile all four of Castlemaine Goldfields FC's senior football sides and 11 junior sides contested the firstround of the BendigoAmateur Soccer League finals series last weekend.
Sevenplayers from the Gisborne-Kyneton United women's football side have been included in Essendon District Football League's Team of the Year
Theteam went through the division 2 season undefeated and decisively wonthe grand final against Taylors Lakes 10.12 (72) to 1.2 (8).
Best afield Belinda Hateleywas appointed captain of the EDFL side.
Theother six Gisborne-KynetonUnited players to gain selection areAyesha Nicholson, Alexia Todorovic, Emma Williams, BrookeCowan, Cheyanne Macumber, and Lucy Lenius.
Team coachisJoseph Antonetti (TaylorsLakes).
TheTrentham Saints will have another tilt at grand final glory aftertheydefeated Navarrebyeightpoints in Preliminary Final 1atthe Carisbrook Reservelast Saturday.
TheGrasshoppersjumped out to alead early in the first term and held a10-point advantageatquarter-time.
TheSaints lifted in the second term piling on another fivegoals and holding Navarretoa solitary pointtosnatcha 23-pointleadatthe long break.
TheGrasshoppersbounced back in the thirdterm kicking twocrucial goalsand keeping the Saints to just one forthe term to bridgethe gap to 14 points at threequarter-time.
Navarrethrew everything they had at the Saints in the final term kicking three goals to twotowin the term. ButTrentham held on to win the matchand achanceto redeem themselves afterlast year'sdisappointing loss at the hands of NatteBealiba.
Best forthe Saints were BrentHarvey who led theway with four goals, Joseph Nesci and Rhys Smith who kicked three each, while the League's topgoal scorer James Regan bootedtwo and Thomas Fuller chipped in two.
Carisbook defeated NatteBealiba by one pointinanailbiter to securetheir placeinthe big one against Trentham and thwart the Swans chances of defending their 2024 flag.
Trentham and Carisbrook will contest the 2025 flagatthe Carisbrook Recreation Reservethis SaturdaySeptember 13 from 2.50pm headlining whatwill be amassive dayoffootball and netball action!
In the Reserves, the Harcourt Lions hopesofdefending their 2024 flag were sadly dashed when they lost to Talbotby just eightpointsinanabsolutethriller that had the crowd on their edgeoftheir seats until the final siren.
TheHawks jumped out to an early lead witha four-goal to one first quarter effort. TheLions foughtback over thesubsequentthree terms but fell shortatthe final siren.
Best forthe valiantLions were Nathan Anderson, Mitchell McKnight and Kristian Brucewiththree goalsapiece, Sean Moss, HarleyWilson and Conan Dickman.
In the second matchofthe round, Carisbrook had aconvincing 34-pointwin overTrentham fora chanceatgrand final redemption aftertheir loss to theLions in 2024.
Best forthe Saints in adetermined effort were Dylan Turner,Robbie Byrne, Jeremy Steen,MatthewBaker,James Gray
in Saturday'sfinal.
In the 17.5s Football, Carisbrook defeated Navarreby32points and Maryborough Giants accountedfor NatteBealiba by just twopoints to maketheir wayintothe big one. Carisbrook will nowfaceoff against the Giants in amassive local derby.
In the 14.5s, Carisbrook defeated Natte Bealiba by 19 points and Trentham defeated Navarreby16points to maketheir wayinto the grand final. Best forthe young Sainters were HarleyThompson, JaxReid, Hugo Leong, William Hopper,Hayden Kost and Oliver Holmes.
Carisbrook and Trentham will go head to head in Saturday'sfinal.
In the Under 11.5s, Talbotdefeateda valiantHarcourt by 17 points ending their young Lions chances at finalsglory.Best forthe Lions were AlastairLane, Mitchell Vidler,Charlie King, Brodie Bagley, Hunter Eddy and Xavier Bird
NavarredefeatedNewstead by 33 points bringing their season to aclose. TheSteadersshowedplenty of heart but just couldn't getthe scoreboardticking over.Best forthe SteaderswereParker Williams, FinleyTelford,BaileyBright, George Finning, Maxwell Wong and Fynn Pilgrim.
Talbotand Navarrewill face offSaturday.
Netball
On the netball court some close Prelimi-
nary Final contests were battled outacross the board. Results were:
AGrade: Avoca 65 defeated Natte Bealiba 46 and Carisbrook 50 lost to Talbot 59. Avoca and Talbotwill nowcontest this Saturday'sgrand final at Carisbrook Recreation Reserve.
BGrade: NatteBealiba 24 lost to Carisbrook 28 and Avoca 37 lost to Maryborough Giants 40. Carisbrook and Giants will nowcontest thefinal.
CGrade: NatteBealiba 36 defeated Avoca 31 and Maryborough Giants 36 defeated Trentham 18. Best on forthe Saints wasKeisha Shearer. Natte willnow takeon Giants in the final.
17&U: Maryborough Giants 47 defeated NatteBealiba 34 and Lexton 28 lost to Avoca 32. NatteBealiba will nowtakeon Avoca in thefinal.
15&U: Newstead31 defeated Maryborough Giants 22. Best on forthe Steaders wasSophia Britt. Avoca37 defeated Maldon 31. Best forthe Dons wasHolly Williams. Newstead will nowplayAvoca in the final.
13&U: Newstead 29 defeated Natte Bealiba 25. Best forthe Steaders wasScarlett Ramsey.Talbot32defeatedDunolly 16. Newsteadwill nowtakeonTalbot.
11&U: Natte Bealiba 20 defeated Newstead 10. Best on forNewstead wasPaige Ramsey.Talbot19defeatedCarisbrook 7 Natteand Talbot will nowcontest thefinal
Macedon utility player Toby Sims maynever kick amoreimportant goal than theone he slotted very,very late in the pulsating preliminary final against Kynetonon Saturday. With less than agoal the difference, Sims took astrongoverhead mark at centre halfforward. He deliberated, and coolly went back and launched ahigh kick thatjust managedtogo through the goalsatthe northern end. Kyneton needed amiracle to win, but the Cats eventually held on and wonby10 points to earn agrand final berth.
Photo: Bill West
TheCastlemaine Football Netball Club Reserves made the journeytothe Queen Elizabeth Oval on SundaytakeonSouth Bendigointhe firstsemifinal.
TheMagpies had first use of the ball kicking four consecutivepoints withthe wetconditions proving tricky
However, the Bloods made no mistakes when their first opportunity came offthe bootofBraydan Torpey. TheMagpies nabbed another pointbeforethe Bloods replied again with agoal to Zavier Holmes.
At quarter-timeSouth led by seven points.
Castlemaine's BradleyKeogh goaled early in the second, followedsoon afterby asecond from Archie Rixon. Butthe Bloods
eventually returned fire witha goal to Cody Brooks and held on to atwo-pointadvantageathalf-time Castlemaine grabbed the lead with the first goal of the thirdterm, before Will Allen snatched one back. Thematch continued to seesawwith goalstoMagpie Brodie Browne-Kerr and South's Will Purcell. At three-quarter-timethe Bloods held a narrow one-pointlead.
Southkicked another,beforeMagpies Curtis McLennan and Bodhi Robinson put them backonthe frontfoot.
However, the Bloods were nottobe outdone and kickedapoint, followedbya goal minutes before the siren to win by a solitary pointand end theMagpies' finals
Aftera disappointing performancethe previous weekend, Gisborne senior footballerswererejuvenated on Sundayastheyled throughout to win the Bendigo League's firstsemi-final
At the Queen Elizabeth Oval,Gisborne 14.9 (93) beat SouthBendigo8.13 (61).
Thesudden death imperativeofthe matchagainst a side thathad beaten them twiceinthe home and away series wasevident. With captain Jack Reaper unable to be considered forselection, and big ruckman Braidon Blakeout of action again, other Bulldogs had the chance to showtheir worth under pressure.
Coach RobWatersand supporterswereimpressed with theturnaround in form.
Brad Bernacki has been among theclassiest players in the BFNL foryears, and he knocks up winning the ball.
Such wasthe case on Sunday, as he wasGisborne's best, with James Gray, Dylan Johnstone, PatMcKenna, Harry Luxmooreand JedDenahyall playing well.
Gisborne led by 28 points at half-timeand were never seriously threatened.
In the second semi-final, flag favouriteSandhurst absolutely demolished Eaglehawk 14.11 to 4.10.
Gisborne would love to continue on and win aspoton grand final day.
chances.
Best forCastlemaine in astellar effort were Declan Slingo, Archie Rixon, Campbell McLennan, RileyPedretti, Jack Nuttalland William Marks.
Meanwhile the Castlemaine Magpie Under 14 and Under 12 sides have also secureda spotinthe BendigoJunior Football League grand finals this weekend.
TheUnder 14s wontheir qualifyingfinal on August 31 over Rochester by one point in an absoluteshowstopper! TheMagpies led early but Rochester foughttheir way back into the match. TheMagpies kept their cool andheldontowin ashotatthe premiership aftera superb season.
Best in afantastic team effort were Fian
Blundell, Darragh Pryor, Declan Brasher, Abraham Harrington, Archie Culph and Evie Mountford.
TheUnder 12s were also tested and stood strong to win their qualifyingfinal on August 31 over Huntly by sevenpoints. Best forthe young Magpies were SidWiese, Miles Cheesman, Reuben O'Sullivan, Mehkai Brennan,Ted Cordyand Ned McMahon.
Bothsides have enjoyeda week'srest before the Under 12s contest their final on SaturdaySeptember 13 against Huntly,and the Under 14s contesttheir final on Sunday September 14 against Rochester.See this Friday's Castlemaine Mail forour grand final featureonthe sides.
Exciting changes areunder wayatKynetonFootball
Netball Club, with fresh leadership, upgraded facilities and community events settosupercharge women’sfootball and netball.
KFNCisthrilled to welcome LisaBorg, one of the original foundersofthe club’s women’sfootball team,ashead coach for2026.
Lisa’s return marksa powerful newbeginning, bringing passion, leadership and adeeplove forthe game.
“Whether you’veplayedbeforeorjust want to giveita go –come and see whatthis club is all about.We’re building something special,”Borgsaid.
Theclubishosting awomen’s football meetand greet on Sunday, October 5, from 1pm at the KynetonShowgrounds.
Go along and enjoya barbecue lunch, meetcoach Lisa Borg andconnect with players.All welcome –players,families, supporters. Be part of something big!
Netball Momentum Builds
Netball is charging ahead withDavid O’Harere-signed as head coachfor 2026 and 2027. David’sleadership has been pivotal in building acompetitiveand connected netball program, and his return ensures continuity and growth.
KFNCisalso gearing up fora huge2026 season with
senior netball trials kicking offinOctober at MRNA. Trials will coverU19, D, C, B, and Agrades, and the club is calling on passionate playerstostepupand join theTigers.
Registrations nowopen: kynetonfnc.com/team/seniornetball
“We’re pumped forwhat’sahead! With greatcoaching, clear pathways forplayers—and finally,brand-newnetball facilities on the way— KFNC netballisbuilding something really exciting,"saidnetball director Loryn Savoia.
"It’snot just awin forour teams, it’sa big boost forthe whole community.” Facilities Upgrade –ADecade in the Making After10yearsofplanning, fundraising and community advocacy,construction has officially begun on brand-new netball courts and women’s changeroom facilities. These long-awaited upgrades will be ready forthe 2026 season, delivering modern, purpose-built spacesthatreflect the club’s commitment to female athletes.
This milestone marks morethan just bricks and mortar— it’s asymbolofprogress, inclusion and the brightfutureof women’s sport in Kyneton
With powerhousecoaches, newfacilities, and avibrant community spirit, KFNC is ready to roar into 2026. Don’t miss your chancetobepart of it!
TheKynetonWomen’s Football Club'sapplication to join the Riddell District Football Netball League in 2026 has been rejected.
Theknock-backfollows the club'sunsuccessful application to join the league forthe 2025 season afterthe players andcoaching staffformed their ownclub at the end of the 2024 season, departing the KynetonFootball Netball Club.
Afterfinding themselves without aleague in 2025 withother leagues also knocking them back, theclub temporarily joined forces with Gisborne’s women’sside as Gisborne-KynetonUnited in the Essendon District Football League, going through theseasonundefeatedto win thedivision 2premiership.
Wanting to playasa standalone club next year,the
Wedge-Tailed Eagles reapplied to theRDFNL.
Club presidentNatalie Korinfsky said thatlatelast week theywereinformed thattheir bid had been rejected, withnoreasons provided forthe decision.
"While this news is disheartening, particularly as the RDFNL is our local leagueand the natural home forour players, families and supporters, we remain incredibly proud of the comprehensiveand professional application and business plan we submitted,"she said.
"Our club worked tirelessly to meetevery requirement forentry,including financial sustainability, facilitiesaccess, committed playing group and community support.
"Despitethis setback, we remain optimistic about the future. We have begun discussions with other neighbouring leagues, and we aredetermined to secure asuitable
Woodend-Hesket andRiddell finished first and second on the A-grade netball ladder,and theywill playoff forthe 2025 premiership on Saturday. Views aredivided among district netball enthusiasts aboutthe likely outcome. TheHawks areintheir fourth successivegrand final, chasing three flags in arow, while the Bombersare anxious to makeamends forbeing runners-up in the last two seasons.
Woodend-Hesket's squad fine tuned witha week'sbreak afterbeating the Bomberscomfortably earlier in the finals series and will have strong spectatorsupport Hawks' coach Ty Coppingerisconfidentthe Hawks will be at their best, while Riddell counterpartEmily Ktonaislooking forpremierships in thetwo topgrades. BecColwell threw 43 goals forRiddell, and thereisastrong chancestar goaler Rebecca Hicks will be available to playfor theHawks.
Lancefield B-grade wonahigh scoring preliminary final 64-56, with TarneeHammond starring with 56 goals. Maddison Thompson scored 45 forRomsey.
In C-grade, Macedon advanced to thegrand final against Gisborne Giants with a38-35 margin against Riddell. Tamika Bishop wasbest forthe Cats, and Tamieka Ploogshone forRiddell.
Gisborne Giants perseveredin D-grade to eliminate DiggersRest 26-23.
Averyclose 19&Under preliminary final sawGisborne Giants defeat Romsey 39-37.
Good luck to all grand finalists.
league forour club and committedplaying group.
"Our purposehas alwaysbeen clear: to provide a safe,inclusiveand empowering spacewherewomen, girls and gender-diverse people can playfootball, connect withtheir community,and be their authentic selves."
Head coachPhil Hawkes said manypeople wouldn’t fully appreciate howstrongand united their playing group was.
"Theyare determined to stay together,playasone, and geta fair go in alocal league.The club andteam areready,and I’m excited to keep working with them as coach. I’m incredibly proud of what we’veachievedso far– andthere’sstill so much moretocome,”hesaid.
TheRDFNL boardand executivedeclined to comment.
Bill West
Thestageisset forthe 2025 senior football grand final in the Riddell League this Saturday, with the contestants Riddell and Macedon.
It's arepeatofthe qualifying final, when theBombershad to pull out all stops to finally overhaul the determined Cats to win 10.13 (73) to 10.5 (65).
Many Riddell supporterswere absolutely ecstatic afterthe Bombers thrashed ladder leader DiggersRest by amassivemargin in the qualifying final, but they cameback to earth when the well organised Macedon combination made them work really hardtoadvance
straighttothe grand final.
Keeping the lid on supporters' expectations is probably one of manytasks of the Bombers' hierarchyasthe big dayat RomseyPark approaches on Saturday.
Riddell deservingly wonthe 2024 flag, and Macedon made the preliminary final.
Non-playing coachesatthe helm are Arron'Skip'BrayatRiddell, and well entrenched former BowenMedal winner Al Meldrum at Macedon. They have ahealthy respectfor one another
While Riddell has some very experienced players,and no obvious weaknesses, the Cats arerelying largely on some quality performers, combining with youngstersonthe wayup.
Easily beating Melton South, then losing to Riddell, before beating Kynetonina cliffhanger to reachthe grand final, cannot be discounted.
Riddell is expectedtoinclude potential matchwinner Dylan Tarczoninits side.
Thebattlebetween Bomber captain Josh Grabham and Macedon's outstanding ruckman Charlie Rossetti maywell be a match highlight.
Mercurial goalkicker Jason Cookeis likely to be afocal pointfor the Cats, and aceBomber defender BenSonogan may be kept busy.
TheCatshavepolished defender/on baller Matt Dick in fineform at the right time.
RomseyReserves football coachHamish Jedwab gives his players their final instructions at three-quarter-time on Saturday. TheRedbacks went on to beatRiddell 7.7 (49) to 4.4 (28), withthe skilful ball getter AaronPaterson listed as their bestplayer. They play Wallan in Saturday'sgrand final,and feel playing on theRomseyground is in their favour Wallan wontheirprevious finals encounterbytwo points in alow-scoring contest.
Theearly stages of this grand final could be somewhathectic, as the Bombers try to impose their class on the game. BIG CROWDASSURED
TheRiddell League hierarchymust be cock-a-hoop about the clubs to be representedonSaturday.
Macedon has twofootball teams competing (seniorsand Under 19.5s), and Riddell, Romsey,Wallan, and Kynetonone each.
Thein-form KynetonUnder 19.5s are out to makeamends forlosing in their first season in the RDFNL to Gisborne Giants in 2024.
Ahugecrowd appears to be guaranteed, unless adverse weather intervenes.
Macedon Ranges mayor, Cr DomBonanno, has extended acongratulatorymessagetoRiddell District Football Netball League grand finalists this weekend.
"Itistremendous to seethe 2025 senior football and A-grade netball grand finalistsare all representatives of clubs from within the Macedon Ranges. It has been agood finals series so far, with strong attendances."
MayorBonanno said Riddell would be going flatout to make it twoflags in arow in football, and Woodend-Hesket A-grade netballerswereout to makehistory as theybid fortheir third successiveflag.
"Thereisvery worthyopposition, and on behalf of council and my fellow councillors, Iwish all participants good luck."
Bill West
Ahugecrowd at the Showgrounds certainly gotits money'sworth in amemorable football preliminary final between Macedon and KynetononSaturday.
These twoevenly matched Riddell League sides gave their all, withthe outcome in the balancerightuptothe time the Cats extended avery narrow lead through adecisivelong goal from Toby Sims.
"You deserved it,"Macedon coachAl Meldrum told his overjoyed playersafter the match.
Equally,with abit of luck hereand thereduring the match,itcould have been the same after-game commentcoming from Kynetonleader Ethan Foreman.
Meldrum told his players thatwinning agrand final is the ultimate, and the next best is actually playing in agrand final.
TheCatsnow face up to theirfourth finals matchfor 2025 when they tackle flag favouriteRiddell in this Saturday's grand final.
Kyneton'seffort in its second season in theRiddell League has been highly commendable
Thethree extremely close contests have been likegrand finals, wins over third-placed Wallan and topside Diggers Rest in overtime, then agallantperformancebeforea crowd which appreciated the efforts of both sides.
Buoyedbythe earlier win by their Under 19.5s, the Tigers kicked to the southern end favoured by aslightbreeze and soon seized the initiative.
TheTigers' teenagehigh flyer Harry Ryan, who kicked six goalsagainst Diggers
Rest, received extracheerswhen he went near the ball.
Macedon did everything possible to contain him (he ended the match with four goals).
TheCatsbroke through forvaluable goals, and Foreman implored his players to makethe most of the second term.
Instead, it wasMacedon's turn to controlthe ball forperiods with somefine team work.
At half time, the Tigers ledbytwo points, and no-one wasleaving the ground.
Macedon had plenty of ball in the third quarter,but twolategoals left Kyneton trailing by apointatthe last change.
At times, virtually all theplayers were in one quarter of the ground.
It wasall or nothing, and Ryan goaled on resumption.
Thematch became astalemate,with desperation savesand good playapplauded.
Macedon missed acouple of direct shots forgoal, and with timeticking down, it wasa couple of points thedifference.
Then Sims marked aclearing kick and scored his unforgettable goal
Final score: Macedon 12.9 (81) dKyneton10.11 (71).
Best players forthe Cats were tireless ruckman Charlie Rossetti, LeoWebb, BlakeWatson, Matt Dick and James Gough. Jason Cookeand SamIndian each kicked three goalsfor the winners.
Kyneton'sbest were listed as prolific ball winner James Yunghanns, James Gaff, James O'Sullivan, Harrison Huntley, Haydn Smith and Frankie Ellis.
Whendidyoustartrunning?
MyparentswouldtakemetolocalfunrunsincludingRunThe MainewhenIwasyoung.Iprettymuchstoppedexercising altogetherinmyteenageyears,buthaverediscoveredalove forrunninginthelastfewyears.
Whatdoyouloveaboutrunning?
Ilovethefeelingofachievementyougetaftereachrun. Iloveseeingtheprogressyougetbyconsistentlyshowingup andputtingintheeffort.I’vefoundrunningbeneficialformy mentalhealth–Ifeelmorepositiveandmymindclearerafter I’vebeenforarun.
HaveyouRunTheMaineBefore?
Yes–AsakidIranthe5kmacoupleoftimeswhenitwasinthe middleoftown.Then2yearsagoIranthe10kandlastyearthe halfmarathonformoreofachallenge.
WhatdoyoulikeaboutRunTheMaine?
Ilikehowitbringsthecommunitytogether,andhavinga varietyofdistancestochoosefrommeanseveryonehasthe opportunitytoparticipate.Ialsolikethatitraisesfundsfor ourlocalhospital.
Wordsofinspiration
Nomatterhowyourfeelingswhenyourunoutthedoor,you canjustaboutguaranteeyou’llbefeelingbetterwhenyouget back.Startingtorunconsistentlycanbeachallenge,butif youstickwithityouwillfeellikeachangedperson–happier, healthierandmoreenergetic.
THEWORDFROMTHEBIRD FEEDTHENEED
Runningonempty?Notideal.
Alittlefuelbeforethebigevent—thinkoats,toastor abanana—cangoalongway.Sipwater,notjustlong blacks,andmaybecoolitonthatthirdcoffee.Your legs(andguts)willthankyou.
Caffeinemightfeellikerocketfuel,buttoomuchtoo closetogo-timecanturnyourtrotintoatoilethunt. Balanceiskey—fuelsmart,hydratesteady,andsave thecelebratorybrewforafteryou’vecrossedthe finishline(ideallyuprightandsmiling).
FUELTOGO:PRE-ANDPOST-EVENTNUTRITION TIPSFORWALKERSANDRUNNERS
Whatyoueatbeforeandafteryoureventcanplaya keyroleinhowyoufeelandperformontheday.Good nutritionhelpsfuelyoureffortandsupportsyour recoveryafterward.
Beforetheevent,aimtoeatabalancedmeal 2–3hoursbeforehand.Includeeasilydigestible carbohydrateslikeoats,toast,orfruitforenergy, alongwithalittleprotein.Avoidheavy,greasy,or high-fibrefoodsthatmightupsetyourstomach. Ifyou’reeatingclosertothestarttime,stickto somethinglightlikeabananaoranenergybar Hydrationisjustasimportantsodrinkwaterinthe hoursleadinguptotheeventandsipthroughoutif needed,especiallyiftheeventdayiswarm. Aftertheevent,yourbodywillneedreplenishment. Trytoeatasnackormealwithinanhourthatincludes bothcarbsandprotein.Asandwich,yoghurtwith fruit,orasmoothie.Thishelpsrepairmusclesand restoreenergylevels.
Smartnutritionisn’taboutperfection,it’s aboutsupportingyourbodysoyoucan enjoythedayandrecoverwell.
TheCastlemaine Football NetballClub faithfulwereoncloud nine Fridayevening at the Queen Elizabeth Oval when the Magpie women's football side defeated Golden Squaretocomplete their fairytale run winning their fourth consecutivegrand final!
It wasa particularly special dayfor the Cochrane family with longtime coachJordan Cochrane and his three sistersand talented team membersTiahna, Ella andHannah Cochrane sharing the magic moment. Young gun and BendigoPioneerstalent Hannah debuted withthe Magpies in April and wasted no time making an impact to become and integral part of the lineup and be part of her first Magpie flag alongside her siblings.
TheMagpie side had been dealt anumber of injury blows in the weeks leading up to grannie –most notably losing their leading goal kickers Eloise Gretgrix and Brianna Burt to ACLinjuries in their final home and away matchagainst Marong.
Butthe side showedithad plenty of depth to draw on as they defeated Golden Square in the qualifying final to securea grand final spotand theall-importantweek'srest to recover, regroup and form agameplan.
Golden Squaretook the hardroad overcoming Eaglehawk in the Preliminary Final to earn another shotatthe rampaging Magpies.
It took alittle time forbothsides to settle Fridayevening, but theMagpies eventually
gottheir first goal on theboardoff the boot of Hannah Cochrane.
At quarter-timethe Magpies held a 10-pointleadwhile the Bulldogs were scoreless.
TheMagpies kicked twomoreinthe second through Ella andHannah Cochrane, before Golden Squarefinally pegged a couple of points through in the dying stages to finally makea dentonthe scoreboard.
TheBulldogs did notbow their heads applying plentyofpressureonCastlemaine in the thirdterm and holding them to just three points, whilst finally getting amuchneeded goal on theboardthrough Liz Watkins.
However, the Magpies showedtheir
cool heads and class in thefinal term with stalwart Tiahna Cochrane kicking their fourth goal andthe Magpie defencelocking the Bulldogs down to keep them scoreless and run out winnersby27points in alowscoring affair
TheCVFL Medal forbestonground was wonbyMagpie midfielder MaeveTupper TheAFL Victoria Medal went to Square's ruckCarly Geary.
Magpie coachJordan Cochrane said it wasn't pretty but they were thrilled with the result.
"The girls have worked incredibly hardto gethereand its just fantastic to see all that effort rewarded. Icouldn't be moreproud," he said.
49
186 acresofgently undulating terrain withtwo street frontages is ideal forhorse breeding cattle, sheep or alpacas. The highly productiverich soil and six dams makecropping another option. Zoned rural/residential. This magnificentland holding is predominantly cleared but withawind break tree line planted formaximum comfortwithout impeding thestunning views.
JasonWoodford-Smith 0478000 441
186acres
ForSale
$3,000,000
Kyneton 5422 2678 rh.com.au/kyneton
1335 DairyFlat Road, Tooborac
3Bed 440acres
This is aversatile 613m2 parcel of land (approx).
Whether you’relooking foraninvestment or wanting to build your dream home, this land offers great potential.
Being in walking distance to schools and sporting facilities offers ease of living.
JasonWoodford-Smith 0478000 441
ForSale $465,000 -$485,000
Kyneton 5422 2678 rh.com.au/kyneton
This is arareand exceptional opportunity to secureyour very ownslice of countryparadise which has been in thesame family,steeped in history, and never offered to themarket beforeinthe historyofthe families 139 year tenure.Offering amodern country-style family home withsweepingwide verandah’sonfour sides, and a substantial 440-acre(approx.) land holding.
JasonWoodford-Smith 0478000 441
ForSale
$2,400,000 -$2,600,000 View By Appointment Contact Agent
Kyneton 5422 2678 rh.com.au/kyneton
Step through thegates of this immaculate1.01-hectare property and discoverabeautifully appointed country home that perfectly balances timeless charm with modern comforts.Dorma windows flood everyroom with soft natural light, while wide verandaswrap around the front and rear to invite lazy afternoonswithaview
KenGrech 0418 509 710
ForSale
$1,275,000 -$1,350,000 View Saturday13thSeptember 10:00am -10:30am
Gisborne 5428 4007 rh.com.au/gisborne
