After 47 years in medical practice — 41 of them in Gisborne — Dr Kulbir Gill is retiring from general practice.
He arrived in Gisborne in 1984, joining Dr Rod Guy and helping establish Gisborne Medical Centre the following year. One of the most frequent questions he was asked was, “Are you going to stay?” .
In those early years, Gisborne still had its bush nursing hospital. Local GPs cared for inpatients, managed emergencies, and looked after surrounding communities without permanent medical services Bullengarook, South Gisborne, Macedon, Mt Macedon, Riddell, Hanging Rock, Woodend, and Trentham. With no MICA ambulance services, roadside and other emergencies were all part of the work — life was certainly full.
Dr Stephen Newton from 1989 and Dr Heena Choksey from the mid 2000s joined the partnership and strengthened the development of Gisborne Medical Centres services. Teaching has always been central to the practice. Since 1987, medical students and GP trainees have come through its doors, many staying on to serve the region.
Kulbir says it has been a joy to see former students now caring for his own patients across Victoria.
His special interest in diabetes care has led to this being a significant part of his practice. He helped pioneer regional diabetes education programs in the 1990s, fostering collaboration between GPs and allied health professionals.
He also practised acupuncture and enjoyed seeing his patients benefit.
Reflecting on his years in Gisborne, Kulbir says, “It has been a privilege to walk alongside so many people through different stages of their lives. I’m deeply
When Dr Kulbir Gill arrived in Gisborne, it still had a functioning hospital where local GPs cared for inpatients.
grateful for the trust, kindness and insight shared with me over the years.”
He thanks the many nurses, doctors, allied health
practitioners, managers and GMC staff for their collaboration and support, and sharing their experience and much fun over the years.
HOME PAGE
From the Editor's desk
Welcome to December! The influx of articles this month were threaded with reflection and celebration of the year that was. The well wishes from our contributors is truly appreciated by the Gazette team. Thank you for your efforts and support this year. It makes our newspaper such a joy to put together and deliver. On that note, thank you to our delivery team and band of incredible volunteers - we couldn’t do it without you.
This year has marked many significant milestones for outstanding members of our community. Sadly, we said goodbye to Irene Perkin this month, who lived almost 50 years in Gisborne. Her contribution to our town has been significant, including being a founding member and secretary of the Friends of Daly Reserve. Read more about this remarkable woman on page 19.
Lindsay Thorne, a longtime local, has been an active volunteer in the community and gathered an array of accolades as a business owner, mentor and innovator in the signwriting and printing industry. He was recently a top five finalist in the Industry Achievement category in the Australian ProPrint Awards. Read more about him on page 3.
Another asset in our community is Dr Kulbir Gill of Gisborne Medical Centre who is retiring after an incredible 47 years of service. He appears on our cover this month.
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Alison Klinghorn for her commitment as contributor to the Gisborne Gazette for the Mount Macedon Petanque Club for 10 years. Thank you, Alison, for your outstanding contribution. Alison is having a well-deserved break from writing and is handing the reins over to another member. You can read the Petanque Club’s news on page 32.
Our younger community members also have had their moment to shine in this edition. The Gazette Student Awards recognise two students from each of our schools in Gisborne, Macedon, Mount Macedon and Bullengarook for their achievements as students. It is a pleasure to celebrate these exceptional young people.
The Gazette team is taking a break and will be back with the first edition for 2026 in February. Have a safe and happy holiday season and thank you again for your support this year. Katrina
Robyn Johnston has been delivering the Gazettes to letterboxes for ten years, she says it is her way of giving back to the community and she loves getting inspiration from other gardens.
Robyn grew up in Ballarat before going to university to study to become a teacher and her career lasted forty years, retiring in 2019.
Robyn met PJ in Romsey and they were married in 1982. They have two daughters Kate and Amy and have three grandchildren.
They moved back to live in the Macedon Ranges in 2008 and have enjoyed reconnecting with friends. Robyn loves sport, having played tennis, netball, and basketball.
Gisborne Gazette PO Box 9, Gisborne 3437 www.gisbornegazette.org.au
Distributors: Proudly distributed to letterboxes in Gisborne, New Gisborne, Macedon, Mt Macedon, South Gisborne and Bullengarook by more than 90 volunteers.
Where you can find the Gazette
Available online at www.gisbornegazette.org.au
DEADLINES FOR COPY AND ADVERTISING
DISCLAIMER
The views expressed in the Gazette are not necessarily those of the Gazette or its management committee unless acknowledged as such. No endorsement of products or services is implied by the listing of advertisers or sponsors. Any advice offered is intended for informational purposes only. It is not meant to replace or substitute for any professional advice. While every effort is taken in printing contributions accurately, the Gisborne Gazette takes no responsibility for errors.
SUBSCRIPTIONS
Copies of the Gazette are posted to subscribers each month for an annual subscription of $37.40 to cover postage. Payment can made through direct deposit online. Please contact Maxine on 0438 711 138.
OBITUARIES
To submit an obituary for publication, please email bryanp2@bigpond.com. Please also provide a photo for publication and restrict the article to about 300 words.
If you do not receive the Gazette in your letter box, you can collect a copy at: Gisborne: Post Office, Village Shopping Centre, Priceline Chemist, Hardy's UFS Pharmacy, Gisborne Medical Centre Brantome Street, Foodworks supermarket, Hello World Travel, Gisborne Library.
Mt Macedon: The Trading Post. Macedon: Post Office; United Service Station on Black Forest Drive.
New Gisborne: Baringo Food & Wine, Station Road; Smithy's Cafe, 3 Ladd Road. Riddells Creek: Newsagency Woodend: Coles supermarket.
The Gisborne Gazette acknowledges the Wurundjeri people as the traditional custodians of the land on which we live and work. We recognise their continuing connection to land, water and community, and pay respect to elders past, present and emerging.
Her hobbies now include Pilates, walking, catching up with friends and family and travel.
Recently, they walked the Carnarvon Gorge in Queensland, it was challenging but the scenery was worth the hike.
Robyn has enjoyed many overseas trips and in 2026, they will be going to see more of England as she has only been to London before.
They are fine weather deliverers of the Gazettes and it only takes one hour, so PJ’s reward for helping is the promise of morning tea afterwards.
Maxine Barker
Please note there will be no market in January. The first market back for 2026 will be on Sunday 1 February. Best wishes to readers for the Christmas season! - GREAT
Proofreading Lou, Sara, Caitlyn
Gisborne Gazette Community Newspaper Inc.
Robyn Johnston►
CFA gears up for annual Santa Run
CFA
The Gisborne Fire Brigade is once again getting ready for our much-loved annual Santa Run on Christmas Eve — a tradition that’s been part of our town for many, many years.
It’s one of the brigade's favourite days on the calendar, and something both our volunteers and the community really look forward to each year. Seeing the excitement on kids’ faces (and plenty of big kids too!) is what makes it all worthwhile.
As the town continues to grow, with new estates and more families joining the community, it is becoming a little trickier to visit every single street in one day.
To make sure we can still reach as many people as
Local signwriter makes his mark
Lindsay Thorne is the Operations and Production Director at Magnum Signs in New Gisborne. Recently he was a top-five finalist in the Industry Achievement category in the national ProPrint Awards. These awards acknowledge outstanding achievements within the Australian print and packaging industry.
Lindsay began his career in the print industry in 1977, through an apprenticeship in Melbourne. He was named Apprentice of the Year for his practical achievements in signwriting.
Lindsay then moved to rural Victoria and ran his own business for 21 years. In the 1980s he won awards for his craftsmanship. After a personal setback, Lindsay returned to Melbourne to further his skills which led him to starting the business Magnum Signs in New Gisborne with his wife, Fran.
Lindsay has been an avid contributor to his industry for over 48 years through affiliations; participating in trade shows and training days; gaining accreditations; and supporting events across Australia and New Zealand. He is known for mentoring others and passing on his skills and knowledge to new generations.
He has continued professional development through ongoing training and uses his wealth of knowledge and skills to be an innovator in the industry.
In his time as the Operations and Productions Director at Magnum Signs, Lindsay has received many more accolades, including the Printing Industry Award for Small Business Printer of the year (under 12 employees). He has also been recognised for his highly skilled
hand painted and printed work, collecting awards for excellence in several areas of signcraft and printing.
Alongside running a successful business with his wife, Fran, Lindsay has also volunteered in his local community, boasting 20 years with both the SES and Rotary Club. He also leads and participates in charity events, community initiatives, training roles.
Despite not winning this national award, Lindsay was honoured to be nominated and Fran was in her words, ‘over the moon proud of him’.
possible — while keeping things safe, manageable, and reducing time on the road for our firefighters — we’ve made some changes to our route this year.
We’ll be sharing maps on the Gisborne Fire Brigade -CFA Facebook page to show which areas we’ll be covering this year.
Closer to the day, we’ll also post details about the designated meeting spots where Santa and the fire trucks will be stopping — so even if we don’t pass directly by your house, there’ll be a nearby spot where you can come and join the fun. Thank you for your understanding and continued support in helping us keep this special tradition alive. From all of us at Gisborne CFA — we can’t wait to see you on Christmas Eve!
Lindsay Thorne with his wife, Fran.
Sadie gets a kiss from one of the goats.
Crowds enjoy the Gisborne Primary Fete. For a report on the Fete and more on school life in Gisborne, see 'Schools In' section pages 25-29.
Water wise, fire ready: water use in summer
During summer, it’s important to think about the role water plays in our daily lives and ways to make every drop count. That’s why Permanent Water Saving Rules are in place 24 hours a day, seven days a week, all year round. These simple, common-sense rules help us use water wisely.
Here are some key rules to follow outdoors:
● Hand-held hoses must have a leak-free trigger nozzle.
● Gardens and lawns can be watered with a watering can, bucket, or hand-held hose.
● Watering systems can only be used between 6pm and 10am.
● Vehicles (cars, boats, etc) can be washed anytime using a bucket, hand-held hose, or high-pressure cleaner.
● Hard surfaces like driveways and paths can only be cleaned once per season with a high-pressure cleaner, bucket, or hand-held hose – unless it is for safety, health, or an emergency.
● Fountains and water features must recirculate water. Water saving does not stop at the garden gate. Inside the home, residents can make every drop count by:
● Keeping showers to four minutes.
● Turning off the tap while brushing teeth or shaving.
● Washing fruit and veges in a tub, then reusing the water on your plants.
● Running full loads in the washing machine and dishwasher.
For more tips, visit www.gww.com.au/saving-water
During a bushfire, extreme heat and high demand can affect water pressure, quality and supply, so it may not always be available. If you live in a high-risk area, you should ensure you have other water sources ready that are clearly marked and independent from the main water and power supply. Here’s how you can prepare:
● store extra drinking water for everyone (including pets)
● keep hydrants and water assets near your property clear of any obstructions
● stay updated via GWW website and social media
● plan and prepare with CFA advice -visit cfa.vic.gov.au
● use multiple sources during an emergency including the VicEmergency app, official agency social media channels, local radio and community networks.
District Neighbourhood House managers/coordinators including Bridget Wade, Coordinator of Macedon Ranges Further Education Centre in
Neighbourhood Houses unite to ‘Keep Their Doors Open’
The Coordinator of Macedon Ranges Further Education Centre, Bridget Wade, recently caught up with some of the other people who make up the Macedon Ranges’ Neighbourhood Houses group (of which MFREC is a part) — Michelle from Romsey, Melissa from Woodend, Vivien from Lancefield and Claire from Kyneton.
While it was lovely to connect, this meeting was more than just a friendly chat. We are working together to raise awareness for Neighbourhood Houses Victoria’s 'Keep Our Doors Open!' campaign.
Despite their impact, many are under serious strain. Insufficient funding over many years has left nearly half of Victoria’s Neighbourhood Houses running at a loss for two years in a row. Neighbourhood Houses Victoria is calling on the State Government to increase funding through the Neighbourhood House Coordination Program by 25% in the 2026 Budget.
Investing in Neighbourhood Houses means investing in people, connection, and community strength. If any readers would like to find out how to support this campaign to ‘Keep Our Doors Open’, please get in touch with Macedon Ranges Further Education Centre in Gisborne.
Sharing crafty ideas ►page 8
Caitlyn Sinclair
CHRISTMAS CAROLS
VARIOUS DATES
1 Christmas Carols @ St Brigid's Hall 7 December, afternoon.
St Brigid's Primary School welcomes all to an afternoon of Christmas Carols in the school hall on Sunday 7 December, from 2 to 4pm. The afternoon includes an Open Mic, and musicians are welcome to participate: contact Kevin or Gerard to book a spot on 5426 1354 or email thatvideoguyaus@outlook.com.
Bring a plate to share - though no hot food as reheating is not available.
2 Community Carols by Candlelight, Dixon Field. 7 December, evening.
Gisborne Carols by Candlelight will be held on Sunday 7 December at 6.30pm at Dixon Field. Pre-entertainment by Burnt Honey and TAKT will start at 6pm. There will be a canteen, ice cream and coffee van, candles and glow sticks for sale.
Come along and listen to the choirs from the local primary schools plus Young Voices of Macedon and Sacred Heart College, and join in the singing of carols with the Carols by Candlelight Choir. Come and see who will be awarded the Local Hero for services to the community. We look forward to seeing you there.
Bronwyn Tacey, Carols by Candlelight Committee
3 Carols by Candlelight, Aitken Reserve 19 and 21 December, evening.
The Voice of Joy and Gladness presents its annual Carols by Candlelight event for 2025. This is a free family event that will run over two nights, and includes live entertainment and free children’s activities.
BYO picnic dinner or buy from the food vans. Join us for a lovely time of singing carols together and celebrating the birth of Jesus through music and song. Everyone is welcome.
Friday 19 and Sunday 21 December from 6pm to 9pm at John Aitken Reserve, Gisborne. Further details of these events ►page 36
4 If you love carols, join us in the Gisborne Uniting Church, 23 Brantome Street, for Christmas Eve (7.30pm) and Christmas Day (9.30am) services.
Gisborne (in left of frame).
The best free show in town
GISBORNE FESTIVAL
FRIDAY 12 DECEMBER
You get little free in this world, but here's one big exception: the annual Gisborne Festival at Gardiner Reserve. Each year Gisborne and District Lions Club invites local families to kick back at year’s end with a parade through the streets and a night of food, fun, entertainment and fireworks.
This year’s Festival is on Friday 12 December, starting at 4.30pm and running to 9.30pm, climaxing with the giant fireworks display at 9.15pm.
A festival highlight is the street parade of 36-plus entries comprising colourful floats, the spectacular Bendigo Chinese Lions, the traditional Monster Truck and for the first time its mini offsider.
Included too are a giant fire-breathing dragon, community groups, dancers, Santa Claus, local clubs, schools, kindergartens and sporting groups.
Working its way down Aitken Street from Fisher Street via the fountain, the parade starts at 6pm and finishes at the festival site at Gardiner Reserve.
For months Gisborne Lions have worked tirelessly to ensure this year’s festival is bigger and better than ever. Costing about $30,000 to stage, the alcohol-free festival is funded by 26 local entities with the major aim of bringing together families for an affordable night of fun.
you can indulge in the diverse fare of the many food stalls and experience the carnival rides.”
There will be music on stage through the night, with free activities on the oval including face-painting, hair braiding and sparkles, henna tattoos, a jumping castle, reptile display, miniature trains and netball participation.
Scholarships for local school leavers
Planning to study in 2026? The Community Bank Gisborne & District can help local students take the next step. The bank's one-year Early Tertiary Scholarships and new three-year Maurice Bourke Scholarship help those who have left secondary school in 2024 or 2025 go on to further study by contributing to study fees, accommodation or equipment costs.
Priority is given to highly motivated applicants who have experienced financial or personal disadvantage and are actively involved in their local community.
The Maurice Bourke Scholarship honours the bank's founding board member, and will be awarded to an applicant who espouses his commitment to community service. Applications are now open, and close on 16 January — visit mrce.com.au for full eligibility criteria and to apply online.
Community leadership
Each year, the Community Bank covers the costs of a local resident to participate in the Loddon Murray Community Leadership program. This year-long program helps empower individuals to become capable leaders who drive positive change in their communities. To apply for 2026 or find out more, visit leadlm.org.au.
Grants awarded
Congratulations to the following South Ward groups who received funding through Community Bank's recent spring round of grants.
“With the economy being tight, this annual festival provides a range of free activities for families,” said Gisborne Lions President Russell Walker.
“You can come along with a picnic rug and enjoy the entertainment on the oval and not spend a cent, or
Youngsters can take selfies with the monster truck and monster dragon or avail themselves of the wandering stilt lady handing out lollies.
All are invited to attend for a night of escape and family-friendly fun.
Tony Fawcett
G isborne and District Lions Club Proudly Presents
LIONS GISBORNE FESTIVAL
4.30pm – 9.30pm F riday 12 December 2025 Gardiner Reserve
FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT STREET PARADE 6pm LIVE MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT
FREE ACTIVITIES FOR THE KIDS
Gisborne Singers – for a digital piano; The Gallery Mount Macedon – for the 2026 Art Prize; Gisborne Community Carols (2025, 2026 and 2027); Holy Cross Primary School – 'Traffic School' project; Mount Macedon ANZAC Day Dawn Service (2026, 2027 and 2028); Young Voices of Macedon choir – contribution to branding/website update; Gisborne & District Lions Club – Gisborne Festival (2025, 2026 and 2027); Macedon Cricket Club – upskilling junior coaches; Gisborne Soccer Club – LED lighting.
Submitted by Gemma Gamble, Macedon Ranges Community Enterprises Ltd
MARKET & FOOD STALLS CARNIVAL RIDES FIREWORKS AT 9.15PM
Major Sponsors:
C ommunity Bank Gisborne - Bendigo Bank, Macedon Ranges Shire Council, Greater Western Water, ROSALIA Gisborne, GREAT Association, Atlas Conveyancing Services, McDonalds Gisborne, UFS Pharmacy, Stoneman Foundation, Macedon Ranges Glass.
ENTRYFREE
The Festival Parade’s Monster Truck and mini offsider.
'Stilt lady', who will be back this year, loads up with sweets.
Hello Gisborne community,
It was an honour to join the Gisborne RSL for this year’s Remembrance Day service. The sun came out just in time as we paused to remember all who have served and sacrificed for our nation.
I’m also pleased to share that Gisborne RSL has been awarded $30,000 through our Anzac Day Proceeds Fund, which supports the wellbeing of our veteran community. This funding will assist with local veteran welfare activities and functions throughout 2026.
It’s been another busy and rewarding year representing our community. I’m grateful for every opportunity to meet with locals, attend community events, and celebrate milestones big and small. Whether it’s upgrades to local schools and community facilities, or new grants for sports clubs and volunteer groups, it’s a privilege to help deliver projects that matter to our towns.
As we move into summer, it’s important to be prepared for bushfire season. Staying informed is one of the most important things you can do to stay safe. The VicEmergency app provides up-to-date information and warnings across the state. You can also use the Fire Planner, an easy online tool that helps you prepare a fire plan for your household. It only takes about ten minutes and could make all the difference. Visit www.vic. gov.au/how-well-do-you-know-fire
As 2025 draws to a close, thank you to everyone who contributes to making our region such a great place to live, work, and visit. Wishing you all a safe and happy Christmas and New Year.
Small business charter
Macedon Ranges Shire Council has reaffirmed its strong commitment to fostering a supportive and thriving environment for local small businesses by re-signing the Small Business Friendly Councils Charter with Victorian Small Business Commissioner Lynda McAlarySmith, committing to making it easier for businesses to operate and thrive across the region.
Outdoor pools Season Pass special offer
The council is excited to announce the pre-season Outdoor Pool Family Season Pass, giving residents the chance to obtain heavily discounted family season passes and casual entry fees at Woodend and Lancefield outdoor pools. Residents can buy family season passes at 50% off until 5 December using the promo code: Earlybird25.
Casual entry fees are also discounted: $3 for adults and $2 concession/children.
The outdoor pools will be open from 6 December. For full opening hours and further information, visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/Outdoor-Pools
Have your say on the council budget
The council is inviting community members to help shape the 2026–27 Budget by sharing their ideas for the council’s key focus areas, whether they be for new infrastructure projects, community initiatives, or reprioritising the way we fund day-to-day services.
From now until Thursday 11 December, individuals, community groups, and organisations are encouraged to submit their proposals that will benefit the broader community.
Those interested in submitting an idea can do so via the council's Your Say page (yoursay.mrsc.vic.gov.au); by email at mrsc@mrsc.vic.gov.au, or in writing to PO Box 151, Kyneton 3444.
Anyone needing guidance on preparing their submission can contact Customer Service to speak with council officers and strengthen their proposal.
COUNCILLOR'S COLUMN
With Cr Alison Joseph
While it has often been cold and often wet recently, there are still predictions that it may be a bad fire season ahead. So be prepared! The Fire Danger period began at 1am on 17 November. During this time no fire can be lit in the open and burning off restrictions apply. Please check the council website for further information,
As we race towards Christmas, Council is now looking to next year’s budget. We are currently calling for ideas for the next 2026-27 budget. Each year Council invites community members and local groups to share ideas for projects or initiatives that could be included in the upcoming Budget. Better sporting areas, upgrades to services and facilities, initiatives to protect the environment or wildlife please let us know.
We want to shape a Budget that reflects your priorities and aspirations. If you have an idea for a project that will deliver great benefit for the community, or just want to highlight the services that are important to you – then please let us know. It is important that we hear from you! Let’s work together to make Macedon Ranges an even better place to live, work and play. Submissions close on 11 December.
The Council is also due to elect a new Mayor and Deputy Mayor for the coming year. Council meetings are broadcast and members of the public are able to ask questions and attend. The next Council meeting will be held on Wednesday 17 December. If you are interested in how the Council operates, what we are considering or are even considering running for Council in coming years then please get involved. I would particularly encourage all our young future leaders to take an interest in Council meetings and consultations.
I would also like to pass on my congratulations to the Gisborne and Mt Macedon Districts Historical Society Inc, which is celebrating its 30-year anniversary. It is a testament to all those who have been involved. The Society is an important repository of local history information, and an amazing research resource. Happy anniversary!
Mary-Anne Thomas with RSL sub-branch members and local veterans on Remembrance Day.
Part of Cross precinct reopens
The Mount Macedon Memorial Cross has been partly reopened to the public.
After an extended closure for structural and safety improvements, the Mount Macedon Memorial Reserve Cross Committee had confirmed that all walking tracks are safe for public access and have been reopened.
Visitors can once again enjoy the full network of scenic walking tracks and views that make Mount Macedon such a special destination.
The Cross and podium area remain closed while critical safety works take place (see story at right).
Urgent community appeal for donations
Memorial Cross works hit hurdle
Over recent months, the Mount Macedon Memorial Reserve Committee of Management has been working to carry out essential safety and restoration works at the cross site. These works are vital to preserve the memorial’s structural integrity, ensure visitor safety, and restore access to the surrounding walking tracks.
What we’ve achieved so far
Thanks to strong community support, government grants and local fundraising, we have already been able to complete major repairs to the cross foundation and surrounding drainage, install new lighting and improve pathways, undertake landscaping and erosion control works, commission heritage assessments and engineering reports to guide future preservation.
The roof goes back over the entrance to the path to the Cross.
We are forever grateful for all the support we have received to date. Thank you for ensuring that we never forget those who served our country.
Why we still need your help
Despite all the careful planning, we have been advised that the existing footings, once exposed, were found not to align with the original 1990 engineer’s drawings. The structural engineers have since designed a resolution to ensure the balustrade can be safely installed. We are now faced with a situation that was unforeseen by all parties,
This work is necessary for the safety of all who visit the cross and the memorial site, and to say the least, this is an unexpected structural challenge; it has pushed the project expenses more than $150,000 beyond budget. To finish this vital work, we urgently need community support to:
• Complete the new balustrade and footings around the Cross
• Finalise restoration and reopen safe public access to the memorial.
Every contribution, large or small, will make a real difference in helping us preserve this landmark for future generations.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
Donations can be made directly through the Bendigo Bank, Gisborne branch. Simply visit the branch and mention the Mount Macedon Memorial Reserve Cross.
You can also contact the committee for more information, or to arrange a donation, at email MMMRCCOM@gmail.com .
Let’s come together as a community to protect this treasured place of remembrance and reflection.
Visitors to the Memorial Cross can again enjoy the breathtaking views from Mount Macedon.
COMMUNITY SERVICE
Proudly sponsored by the Rotary Club of Gisborne
Who to call during storms and floods
Heading into Victoria’s high-risk weather season, it is important to know who to call during an emergency. Severe weather events such as storms, floods, and damaging winds can happen quickly and with little warning. Being prepared and knowing the right number to call can make all the difference.
For life-threatening emergencies:
Call 000 immediately
This includes situations where someone’s life is in danger, such as serious injury, fire, or if you are trapped.
For SES assistance during storms or floods:
Call 132 500
This is the number for help with things like fallen trees, roof damage, or flooding that is
not life-threatening.
For other information and updates
Download the VicEmergency App and set a watch zone for your area. This will keep you informed about warnings and advice as conditions change.
Remember, small actions can make a big difference. Secure outdoor items, clean gutters, and have your emergency kit. For more tips, visit ses.vic.gov.au/plan-and-stay-safe.
Season’s Greetings from Gisborne SES
As the year draws to a close, volunteers from Gisborne SES would like to wish our community a safe and joyful Christmas and New Year. Thank you for your support throughout the year. Stay safe, look out for one another, and enjoy the festive season!
Toriana Collins – Community Engagement
Gisborne Library News
Merry Christmas and our Best Wishes for a Happy New Year. Congratulations and thank you to the editor and volunteers of the Gisborne Gazette. The Gazette is a truly special informational pot of gold. Staff at the library give new patrons to the area a copy as a handy guide to our community.
Christmas/New Year opening hours: We are open on Wednesday 24 December from 9.30am to 3pm; closed 25 and 26 December; open Saturday 27 from 9.30am to 12.30pm. Open Monday 29 to Wednesday 31 for the shorter hours of 10am to 3pm. We are closed on Thursday 1 January and back to normal hours from Friday 2 January, 9.30am to 5.30pm.
December programs
● Digital Literacy Workshop, Canva for Christmas: Tuesday 2 December from 11.30am to 12.30pm. Bookings required.
● Jane Austen Regency Dance Card Workshop and
'Stay Prepared,
Stay Safe'
Sharing crafty ideas at Further Ed Centre
High Tea on Friday 5 December from 2pm to 4pm.
● Jane Austen Movie on Monday 8 December from 1.30pm.
● Rod Halsted in Conversation with John Wood“Take My Advice. I’m not using it!” Thursday 11 December 2pm to 3pm. Bookings required for this author talk.
For the Kids
● Christmas Craft Table Drop-In on Wednesday 3 December at 3.45pm.
● The Big Summer Read is back on and we are excited to have a Launch Party at Gisborne Library on Saturday 6 December from 10.30am to 12 noon with live music, activities and freebies! Big Summer Read is a simple way to support your children in maintaining their reading levels and interests over summer. Chat with the library staff for more details.
And remember the Library is a Cool Place to be over Summer. Merry Christmas everyone.
Georgina
A reader says she attended a craft session at Macedon Ranges Further Education Centre recently and had a great experience. She took her daughter Braegan and introduced her to Wendy in the Craft Circle.
"Wendy spent the next two hours teaching Braegan how to crochet. It was such a nice moment that I thought was worth sharing," says Megan.
"Every Monday morning from 10.30am to 1pm, the centre buzzes with creativity and conversation as community members gather for the weekly Social Craft Circle.
"You can stay for the entire session or simply drop in — everyone is welcome. Bring along any craft project you like, whether it’s knitting, crochet, embroidery, or even reattaching a plaster ear to a garden gnome. Nothing is off limits, and the atmosphere is as relaxed as it is welcoming.
"My experience was a perfect example of how skills, stories, and laughter are shared across generations. (And Braegan’s scarf is now coming along nicely.)" Megan Thompson
Permanent Water Saving Rules always apply
Permanent Water Saving Rules are always in place to help us all use water wisely.
Remember, hand-held hoses must be fitted with a leak-free trigger nozzle.
Gardens and lawns can be watered using a watering can, bucket or hand-held hose.
Watering systems can only be used between 6pm and 10am.
Visit our website for more information gww.com.au/PWSR
Gisborne SES volunteers
Young Shedmen in presentation
The Young Shedmen program has just finished its ninth year. At the recent presentation night, Jake, Luka, Mal and Hamish each gave a short presentation in front of their parents and some of their teachers from Gisborne Secondary College. They mentioned the things they had learnt and their appreciation of the assistance given by our not-so-young Shedmen throughout the year.
Local State MP Mary-Anne Thomas, a long-time supporter of our Shed, then presented each Young Shedman with a toolkit and a certificate of participation.
Our “cost of living” raffle for the Gisborne Foodbank is well underway. As in previous years, look for our display at supermarkets each weekend.
The schedule is listed on the Facebook pages of the Foodbank and Gisborne Men’s Shed and we will be in the Gisborne Christmas parade.
You can also click on the accompanying QR code to buy tickets for your chance to win $3000 in gift vouchers and three garden ornament wheelbarrows. The raffle will be drawn at The Shed on Monday 15 December.
We wish you all a Merry Christmas and a safe and satisfying New Year.
Q: What starts with E, ends with E, and has only one letter in it?
A: Envelope
PROBUS CLUB OF GISBORNE
The most recent outing for Gisborne Probus Club members and friends was a lunch at the Macedon Village Hotel where good food and company were enjoyed in the very pleasant atmosphere of the recently remodelled premises.
We have been fortunate to round off the monthly meetings for 2025 with guest speakers on two very different topics. In October we listened to Norm Smith from the Gisborne Sub-Branch of the RSL who gave an outline of the history of the RSL and its role at the local level.
At the November meeting, Bill Ellerton spoke about the Children’s Tumour Foundation, which provides advocacy and support for children and families affected by neurofibromatosis, an uncommon genetic disease that can adversely affect the functioning of nerves throughout the body and is very difficult to treat.
On behalf of the club I wish all readers a very Happy Christmas and holiday season. We will not be meeting again until Thursday 5 February in the Gisborne Community Centre at 10am. If you are curious about joining, why not come along or contact our president Gary Jones on 0458 841 947.
Michael O’Brien
Gisborne footballer honoured
GISBORNE GOSS
● Digging has commenced on the corner of Brady and Willowbank Road in preparation for the building of a new commercial hub, slated in planning proposals to eventually include a medical centre, eateries and small supermarket.
A new eatery, Bowl’d Bar, opened on 22 November in Hamilton Street, where the Town Butcher used to be (next to the Corner Cafe).
● The century-old 'Westport' homestead will be part of a new over-50s village which is finally going ahead in New Gisborne. A retirement village was approved for the 23-hectare site at 72 Ferrier Road some time ago but was not started: the property has now passed to GemLife and the council has approved the first phase of 116 homes. A total of 247 units are planned. Construction is anticipated to begin before the end of the year and be completed over five stages.
Rising Macedon alt-pop artist Amalie has released a new single, Alien. Amalie, 20, grew up in Macedon immersed in art, and from the age of 15 painted and sold portraits to fund her musical pursuits.
Luke Saunders, who had a great 145-game career with Gisborne Football-Netball Club which included five premierships - 1997, 2002, 2003, 2005 and 2006 - was inducted into the Bendigo league Hall of Fame on 22 November. Luke was also the Gisborne Bulldogs’ playing coach in 2011 and 2012, taking the squad to six finals including the 2012 Grand Final.
● A tree crashed down in the wooded area between Gardiner Reserve and Sankey Oval early in November.
From 16 November, an extra 66 bus trips each week have been added to routes 73 and 74 in Gisborne extending services until later in the afternoon at weekends.
Caught mid-conversation, Probus Club members at lunch in Macedon.
Jake (left), Luka, Mal and Hamish with Mary-Anne Thomas at the presentation.
Luke Saunders
Christmas lights nomination box waiting to receive entries, outside Hello World Travel in Brantome Street.
ROTARY CHRISTMAS LIGHTS COMPETITION
Gisborne Rotary Club wishes to acknowledge and celebrate the creativity, enjoyment, and pleasure that many within the community of Gisborne give for the enjoyment of others at Christmastime by decorating their homes or gardens with Christmas lights and decorations.
Gisborne Rotary, with the assistance of the Gazette, is asking readers to nominate three houses that they enjoyed the most on the nomination form (which is situated below this article) and return it via the nomination box located outside Hello World Travel in Brantome Street.
Nominations close at 4.30pm on Friday 19 December. The three most-nominated houses will receive from the Rotary Club of Gisborne a Certificate of Appreciation and $50 Bunnings gift voucher.
For enquiries, contact Graeme on 0408 542 270 or via email, grsnell@bigpond.com Graeme Snell
(Nomination form below)
Macedon and Mt Macedon Community House
DECEMBER NEWS
As the year draws to a close, we’d like to take a moment to reflect on the heart and soul of the Macedon and Mount Macedon Community House — our incredible volunteers. Without their time, energy and generosity, the House simply wouldn’t be what it is today. Each one has helped shape this space into a thriving hub of connection, creativity and community spirit.
From the gardens to the sausage sizzles, from event setup to program coordination, their contribution has been invaluable — and we are so deeply grateful.
It has also been a year of exciting growth and renewal. With the completion of the new kitchen and the continued development of the beautiful gardens, the House is ready to host even more activities and events in 2026. These new facilities will allow us to expand our offerings.
We’re also delighted to welcome Megan as our new administrative assistant (see right).
A heartfelt thank you again to everyone who continues to support and contribute to our community.
From all of us at the Macedon and Mount Macedon Community House, we wish you a joyful and safe Christmas, and we look forward to seeing you in 2026 for another wonderful year.
Regular programs
More information about all programs can be found on our website: www.mmmcommunityhouse.org
House Hire
The House is a great space to hire (including the garden) for meetings and events. For more information please visit our website mentioned above.
New Programs
If you’re interested in running a regular group or activity, contact hello@mmmcommunityhouse.org and we will organise for one of the committee members to chat with you.
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS NOMINATION FORM
Meet our new admin officer
The Macedon and Mount Macedon Community House is delighted to welcome Megan as the new administrative assistant. With Megan now on board, the House will be open on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings from 10am to 12 noon, giving locals more opportunities to drop in and make use of the services on offer.
Whether you need to use the photocopier, scanner, printer or wi-fi, browse our community library, drop off soft plastics for recycling, or simply connect with others in the community, Megan will be here to assist — always with a friendly smile and a warm cuppa ready.
A Gisborne local, Megan brings with her a strong passion for community and a deep appreciation for the important role community houses play in bringing people together. She is looking forward to meeting new faces, helping with day-to-day needs, and supporting the programs and initiatives that make the House a welcoming and inclusive space.
So next time you’re nearby, pop in to say hello — Megan would love to meet you, share what’s happening at the House, and help you connect with your local community.
MACEDON & MOUNT MACEDON COMMUNITY HOUSE
Christmas Fair
Christmas is almost here, and so is the CWA Central Highlands Group Christmas Fair. We hope you can call in at the CWA Hall at 662 Mount Macedon Road, Mount Macedon, on Saturday 6 December between 10am and 3pm.
Traditional Christmas cakes, puddings, shortbread and more will be on sale, as well as a variety of gift items and baked goodies from some of our Central Highlands branches. Look out for stocking fill for teachers and things to have in case an pected gift is required.
There will be a quality second-hand stall and a sausage sizzle. Come along and catch a bit of the festive spirit with us.
After a busy year with catering for var ied events both at our hall and at other venues, we are looking forward to our Christmas break-up at a lovely garden belong ing to a Macedon Branch member. Then there will be a bit of downtime to spend with family and friends over the holiday season.
We at Macedon Branch wish all at the Gisborne Gazette and the readers a safe and Happy Christmas and a great New Year.
St Paul’s Anglican Op Shop Jottings
St Paul’s Anglican Op Shop Jottings
Rita has volunteered at St Paul’s Op Shop for seven years, since retiring from her 37-year career job. An avid op shopper, she usually dropped in after work. Seeing her often, Graeme, one of our original volunteers, suggested that she might like to volunteer: she replied that she would when she retired.
Until January this year she always worked in the shop. Knowing that we were short-staffed in the sorting shed, Rita offered to help out. She sorted donated items and began restocking the shop. Our goal, as 2025 began, was to restock every day because donations from our lovely local people come in every day.
Sorting donations gave Rita a new perspective on op shopping because, as much as possible, we don’t throw anything away. We recycle metal, excess clothing, soft plastics, books, even electrical items (which we can’t sell but pass on to op shops that can), and we sell many lovely items at rockbottom prices. Rita enjoys engaging with other volunteers and customers. She says, “I love working here. I get a lot out of it.”
Celebrating our CWA stalwarts
Gisborne CWA is very fortunate to have members who have given their service for 25 years. Val Jarred and Osija Anolak were presented with badges and certificates at the AGM in October. Judy Culpan, our very able Treasurer, was also presented with a 10year badge and certificate.
The group is looking forward to the Central Highlands Christmas Fair on Saturday 6 December at the Macedon CWA Hall, Mount Macedon. From 10am to 3pm, five branches will have stalls featuring baked goods and crafts to fill Christmas stockings.
Christine Edwards
Please call Anne Fyfield on 5426 2210 if you think you might like to join CWA in 2026. We would welcome you to come to a meeting to see if it interests you.
If you need a reason to smile, drop into St Paul’s Anglican Op Shop and engage with your friendly volunteers. Even if you don’t buy anything, they will do their best to see you go away happy. Let us make your day! Jan Volkman Harris, volunteer
After our November meeting we welcomed Kirsty and Anne Maree who run the early intervention programs at Gisborne Secondary College. They organise many different activities to engage children who may be having difficulties with school studies. They then took us for a stroll through the school to show us new rooms they work out of and the gardens that have been created by the students. We look forward to seeing the progress of the new area, with raised garden frames ready to go.
The last meeting for the year is on 8 December at Gisborne Secondary College followed by lunch at Gogos in Macedon.
Christine Edwards MACEDON CWA
Rita
Bushwalkers taking busy schedule in their stride
It has been a busy few months with a real mixture of weather but nothing to deter Gisborne Bushwalking Club members from experiencing some great walks. The crew from Sydney Base Camp returned with many great tales to share.
There was a cold damp day for a walk from Cherokee to Lions Head, then a great walk along the Maribyrnong Gorge and Brimbank Park. This is a hidden gem with spectacular views of the river and magnificent gum trees filled with lots of wildlife and birds.
A sunset walk at Blackhill Reserve (Kyneton) on a perfect evening treated us to panoramic views of Mt Franklin to the west, Mt Alexander to the north and Mt Macedon to the south.
A walk along the Barwon River, Geelong, took in the Barwon and Moorabool rivers, the rock cascade at Buckley Falls and River Gum Island, providing something of interest for everyone.
Our program of activities continues over the entire summer with great walks and activities including Barefoot Bowls, bushwalks and town/historical walks.
We would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a safe New Year. It’s the perfect time to get active and enjoy our wonderful landscape.
If you want to get involved, our many and varied
Hello from the Ramblers
Well another year is coming to its end Looking back, it has been a successful year for the Ramblers, expanding the mailing list (currently 175 addresses) and at the time of writing, on track to complete (weather permitting) 52 walks for the year.
With the coming festive season, over-indulgence is a possibility; maybe joining us in the new year for a walk will help to re-address the balance!
Details of our weekly walks are emailed out if you care to join the mailing list, there is no cost or obligation. You can walk with the group on Fridays or solo at your preference. Contact details are below.
I have detailed a walk you may want to try in the meantime, which may give you a taste of the Ramblers ‘menu’.
walks and activities have something for everyone. If you would like to give bushwalking a try you can join us as a casual participant for $5 (insurance coverage) and see if it’s for you. For details about the Gisborne Bushwalking Club, please contact Secretary Jenny on 0438 691 801 or our President Gail on 0419 374 603. Our website is www.gisbornebwc.org.
Keep active and stay safe.
RAMBLERS WALK
Canning Park / Blackmore Road - Macedon/Woodend
A pleasant walk, with some panoramic views. Distance: approx 5km
Level: Easy
Directions: From Gisborne, drive along the Calder Highway, taking the first turn off (Black Forrest Drive) towards Woodend. Turn right into Canning Park Road. Make sure to turn the first sharp left, then drive for approximately 2km until reaching the junction of Blackmore Road.
Park off road as the walk starts from here.
Walk along Blackmore Road (this begins as a treecovered route before becoming open country) until reaching Tweddle Road.
To advertise in the Gazette, contact our Advertising Coordinator on 0438 711 138 or email gisbornegazetteadvertising@gmail.com
Ad sizes and prices are also listed on our website, gisbornegazette.org.au
As this is the last column for the year, I would like to wish you all, on behalf of the Gisborne Ramblers, a safe, happy, healthy Christmas and New Year.
Cheers, Charles (gisramblers@gmail.com)
Turn right and walk along Tweddle until a right turn into Walkers Road.
Following this road will eventually bring you back to your car affording some great views to Mt Macedon along the way.
The only downside is the drone of traffic noise coming from the nearby Calder Highway. However, this is generally only noticed on the latter part of the walk.
A curious Eastern Water Dragon spotted on one of the bushwalkers' treks.
Deborrah
View along Canning Park/Blackmore Road walk.
On this special day, community remembers those who served
The annual Remembrance Day commemoration in Gisborne was well attended on 11 November despite the inclement weather that threatened to dampen the service but not the spirit of the solemn service.
The Gisborne Cenotaph was draped with wreaths laid by community organisations to commemorate those who gave their lives in service to Australia, New Zealand and Commonwealth countries. As always the wreaths were beautiful creations.
The service was attended by the Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas, who advised us that the Gisborne RSL Sub-Branch will receive a state government grant that will assist our welfare activities and programs for veterans.
The annual Red Poppy Appeal for 2025 was outstanding due to the dedicated work of our members and the generosity of the Gisborne and district community.
We also appreciate the consistent support we receive from local supermarkets around Gisborne and the Riddells Creek Post Office, which allow us to sell our Poppy badges on their premises.
The GREAT Association is also a supporter of RSL and makes room for badge sales at the April and November Sunday markets.
Wrapping up for 2025
In conclusion for this year, we are particularly grateful to the Gisborne Football Netball Club for its generosity in providing our RSL Sub-Branch a space to conduct our monthly meetings.
Darren Grevis-James
The Sub-Branch will be in recess over Christmas and during the January holiday period. We will resume our activities in February.
On behalf of the executive and members of our Sub-Branch, we wish the community, and those past and current serving members of the Australian Defence Force, a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Darren Grevis-James President
It's crunch time
I find being a Calder member really valuable and rewarding. There’s the camaraderie, which is important, when you get to share time with mates on the water, talking fishing, tying flies and discussing trips. A big part of being a club member is the sharing of information, locations, tips and tricks. This most recent day had all of that.
Fellow member Kieran and I met at Moorabool reservoir on a cold and windy morning. While the conditions weren’t great we were both optimistic. We spent half a day casting, walking, and chatting without even seeing a fish. On the advice of another member (Norm) we headed off to Lake Wendouree in Ballarat.
Upon arriving the conditions were not much better but we had been given the good oil that a dun hatch (mayfly nymphs rising to the surface to moult into the pre-adult winged form or dun stage prior to flying off to dry its wings to become an adult “spinner”) would happen after 1pm. Just about every bird in the Ballarat area was feeding on duns when they hatched and before they took flight. Strangely the fish weren’t feeding on them.
Having remembered the success of Norm, I tied on a “cruncher” fly pattern which is fished sub-surface via a slow retrieve. It would have been less than 10 minutes after the fly change and I had a healthy brown trout hooked and on the way to the net.
With expert netting and photography skills, Kieran made sure this was truly a team effort.
If you are interested in fly fishing or fly tying. please visit www.calderflyfishing.com.au . We are also on Facebook and Instagram.
Simon Hall
Simon and his beautiful trout.
Students from the Bullengarook campus of Macedon Ranges and Sunbury Specialist School were among the groups who laid wreaths.
Veterans including RSL President Darren Grevis-James (second from right) at the war memorial.
Festive cheer – celebrating the small wins
December is always a whirlwind. With the holidays, family visits, and end of year celebrations, it can feel like there’s no time to breathe. But amid the chaos, it’s important to celebrate the small wins. And by small, I mean really small, like actually getting your kids to put on matching socks without a battle or managing to get through an entire Christmas shopping trip without losing your mind. These are wins!
Take a moment to reflect on your achievements this year, whether it’s how far you’ve come in your organisation skills, or how you’ve managed to carve out time for self-care. We all need to recognise the wins, especially when there’s a mountain of presents to wrap and a never-ending list of ‘to-dos’ hanging over us.
Now, I know December can feel overwhelming, it’s easy to feel like you’re running on empty. But here’s the thing, you don’t have to do it all. Keep things simple. If the Christmas tree isn’t Instagram worthy, that’s okay. If you have store-bought gingerbread instead of baking it from scratch, nobody’s judging. You’re doing the best you can, and that’s enough. The key to surviving the holiday season with your sanity intact is to remember to enjoy the little moments. Focus on creating memories. Whether it’s playing a board game with the kids, having a glass of wine after they’ve finally gone to bed, or taking a few quiet minutes to yourself, these are the things that will make this festive season one to remember. So, celebrate the small wins. The holidays don’t have to be perfect, they just have to be fun and filled with love. That’s what matters most. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Wrapping up the year with a smile
Dental Talk Dental Talk
with
Dr Jacob Chan
It has been such a pleasure writing this column over the past year. I’ve enjoyed sharing insights, sparking conversations about dental health, and helping our community feel more confident and empowered to care for their smiles. Each month has been a reminder of how small habits and everyday choices can make a big difference in longterm oral health.
As we wrap up the year, I wanted to end on a lighter note — with a few surprising and delightful dental facts that might make you smile (and perhaps impress your friends at your next trivia night!).
1. No sugar, no cavities: Since sugar was not part of anyone’s diet in prehistoric times, people most likely didn’t suffer from tooth decay. It was only after the introduction of sugar and processed foods that cavities became a common concern.
2. The first toothbrush: In the 1700s, an Englishman named William Addis had the bright idea to attach boar bristles to a bone handle — and voilà, the toothbrush was born! His invention marked the beginning of modern oral hygiene as we know it.
3. Teeth can’t heal themselves: Unlike bones, which can mend naturally after a fracture, tooth enamel and cracked teeth do not have the ability to repair on their own. That’s why regular checkups and early intervention are so important.
4. A tooth worth thousands: In 1816, Isaac Newton’s tooth was sold for the modern-day equivalent of nearly $36,000 — quite the upgrade from the going rate offered by today’s tooth fairy.
5. Sports and smiles: A staggering three million teeth are lost each year during sporting events. It’s a powerful reminder of why we’re such strong advocates for wearing custom-fitted mouthguards whenever you’re playing contact sports.
6. Toothy creatures: Mosquitoes actually have 47 tiny teeth — though thankfully they don’t use them quite like we do! And armadillos? They have an incredible 104 teeth.
7. A lifetime of saliva: Believe it or not, the average person produces enough saliva in their lifetime to fill two swimming pools — that’s roughly 380,000 litres. Saliva is essential for washing away food particles and keeping your mouth healthy.
8. Sweet irony: Fairy floss, or "cotton candy" was invented in 1897 by a dentist named William Morrison. Clearly, he was thinking about the wrong kind of floss!
As we close out another year, I want to thank you for reading, learning, and sharing in this journey toward better oral health. Your engagement and curiosity make writing this column so rewarding.
Wishing you a joyful holiday season filled with laughter, good company, and plenty of reasons to smile. Here’s to a bright and healthy 2026!
Supporting your mental health during the festive season
Christmas is a joyful time of year, with many coming together to celebrate family, friendships and coworkers. But for some, the festive season can increase unwanted feelings of pressure, unrealistic expectations and sadness. Macedon Ranges Health counsellor Hugh Martin encounters these issues in clients on an annual basis.
He has developed six handy hints to help people get the most out of the festive season.
Martin
● Keep things in perspective: Don’t feel the pressure of the “perfect Christmas” depicted in movies and on social media. Focus on what matters to you.
● Don’t break the bank: Gifts don’t make Christmas meaningful. Instead, focus on low-cost ways to connect - shared meals, laughter, and quality time.
● Set boundaries: It’s okay to say “no”. Be honest about what you’re comfortable with and avoid overcommitting.
● Plan quiet time: Schedule moments to rest and recharge. Setting aside some “me time” can help you stay balanced and well.
● Choose positive company: Spend time with people who lift you up and limit time with those who drain your energy.
● Unplug a little: Reducing social media scrolling can help prevent comparison and keep your focus on reallife connections.
If you need further support, you can make a free appointment with a Macedon Ranges Health counsellor by calling 5428 0300.
Celebrate Christmas with heavenly Baroque choral music
For many, a special highlight of the Christmas season is the music (not so much the shopping mall variety, but the carols and choral treasures sung by well-tuned choirs).
Folk of the Macedon Ranges are fortunate in having access to Baroque Christmas, performed by the Australian Chamber Choir under the direction of Douglas Lawrence as a regular seasonal event. This year’s Baroque Christmas takes place on Saturday 6 December at 3pm at the Church of the Resurrection, Macedon.
The program will include two settings by Bach and Walter of the beautiful carol In dulci jubilo and the setting by Praetorius by the popular Es ist ein Ros entsprungen. Also featured are two Australian premieres: Facta est cum Angelo by Raffaella Aleotti (c.1574-1646), and Reges Tharsis by Mikołaj Zieleński (c.1550-c.1616), the first Polish composer to publish outside Poland.
A very special local inclusion comprises three works from the collection Southern Star: Love is born; Gulguldja mardj; Real and right and true, with texts by Michael
Leunig (1945-2024) and music by Melbourne composer Christopher Willcock (b. 1947). Here the Australian Chamber Choir will be joined by outstanding young harpist Katia Mestrovic. Katia graduated in 2022 from the Sydney Conservatorium of Music and has since been a finalist in international harp competitions. In Melbourne, she performs regularly as a soloist and ensemble player, including with Trio Lyra.
The concert is hosted by Friends of Music at Resurrection. For bookings visit Auschoir.org
Craft Corner: Be creative and crochet
Crochet and Conversation Group Crochet and Conversation meetings are held at 2pm on the first Monday of the month at the Gisborne Library. Last month’s group was elated to receive a generous donation from Wendy Dunstan, an accomplished crocheter and past group member, of crochet materials including books, magazines and patterns. And thank you to Ruth McLaine for her thoughtful donation of crochet magazines. Big thank you to Gisborne Library staff for the many years of support.
CRAFT CORNER
Bendigo Craft Cinema Night
Here's a Christmas treat: Ever wanted to take your crochet to the cinema, but it’s just too dark? Work on that knitted scarf but worried about annoying the person next to you? Craft Cinema Night is for you. The lights will be dimmed to allow patrons to enjoy the movie and continue crafting.
Movie: Love Actually 3.50pm (no ads/trailers) Saturday 13 December. Book at https://events.humanitix.com/craft-cinema-night-love-actually-bendigo
Hugh
6 and 7 December: Phoenix Art & Craft show
Wishing all our supporters over the years a very happy Christmas season. We are a multimedia group with members producing a wide range of work including pottery, painting, paper-craft, woodwork, glassware jewellery, textiles such as spinning, weaving, thread painting and puppets.
At the Exhibition in the old Court House in Gisborne you will have the chance to view all the varied artists’ work and to buy a one of a kind item at a reasonable
price just in time for your family and friends this Christmas season.
We look forward to seeing you on Saturday 6 December from 10am to 4pm and Sunday 7 December from 9am to 3pm. The Sunday exhibition coincides with the Gisborne Christmas Market.
If you want to find out more about our group, visit www.phoenixmrac.com or our Facebook page, facebook.com/phoenixmrac . If you are interested in joining Phoenix contact Kay Beale on 9744 2646.
The Gallery celebrates Christmas
The Gallery celebrates Christmas in December with amazing arts and crafts, suitable for gifts, made by our talented member artists in a special Christmas exhibition in the Focus Room.
It was a busy year at The Gallery. Exhibitions by invited artists and members provided the Macedon Ranges with a variety of artistic endeavours including painting, drawing and photography. The 2025 Art Prize competition was a great success in April.
In June, The Gallery joined the Woodend Winter Arts Festival. The popular 'Art to Wear Parade' in July marked 20 years for Colleen Weste, who began this annual event with the late Joan Burke. It was an outstanding success.
The Gallery members thank you for your support. Our members wish you the very best season’s greetings and look forward to your visits in 2026.
The Gallery is at 684 Mount Macedon Road, Mount Macedon (behind the Trading Post) and is open 10am to 4pm Friday to Tuesday.
Sue Anson, 0413 581 632
A varied presentation of art and crafts from Phoenix's last show.
Wreath by Heather Blaich
Gisborne
Locals deliver quality and quantity at group comp
The Macedon Ranges Photographic Society recently competed in an annual competition between Bendigo, Maryborough and Mt Alexander Camera Clubs and us known as QuadComp.
The competition was judged by Mark Bloothoofd from Geelong.
Steve Sheddick received a merit award for his image titled 'Here’s Looking at you Kid'. Jeni Marinier received a Merit for 'Striated Fieldwren', third place for 'Timeless Tiara', and second place for 'Dahlias at Dawn'.
Our print category was highly successful, helping to achieve the overall competition win.
Macedon Ranges Photographic Society will conclude
for 2025 on Saturday 6 December with an end of year barbecue and Awards Evening. Guests are most welcome to attend.
The club meets on the first and second Monday of the month. Our first meeting for 2026 will be Monday 2 February. Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start at Jubilee Hall, Macedon.
Feel free to look at our website for more information about Macedon Ranges Photographic Society and use the “Contact Us” form or please email info@macedonranges-photography.org.au .
Jeni Marinier
Every reason to celebrate 2025
The Mount Players have experienced yet another brilliant year with four memorable, sell-out shows. The Importance of Being Earnest, The Girl on the Train, A Skull in Connemara and Puffs. These, together with an active Youth Theatre and visiting shows and entertainers, ensured the Mountview Theatre was always alive and buzzing with true diversity. We now look forward to our Christmas break-up with members to celebrate.
The first production for 2026, The Cemetery Club by Ivan Menchell, opens on 20 February. Three New York widows meet once a month for tea before visiting their husbands’ graves. Ida, Lucille and Doris are very individual characters who take us on a journey filled with laugh-out-loud humour and pathos about love, navigating grief and the challenges of moving on. Tickets available early January.
Membership for 2026 is now available at just $30 and $10 for each additional member of the family living at the same address. Enjoy shows, members evenings, being involved in productions and perhaps even tread the boards. It’s a great Christmas gift idea. Go to www.themountplayers.com for full details and for all things theatre.
A huge thanks to every patron who walked into our theatre and of course our incredible sponsors Without you we would not be the wonderful, creative space that we are. We wish all a happy Christmas season followed by the best year ever in 2026. See you at the theatre!
Karen Hunt on behalf of The Mount Players committee
Society president Jeni Marinier receives the club award from judge Mark Bloothoofd.
'Timeless Tiara', Jeni Marinier 'Dahlias at Dawn', Jeni Marinier
Vet Talk Vet Talk
with Dr Caitlin Retchford Veterinarian
Safe sun spots for Snowy
Summer is rolling in, and the rays of sunshine are a welcome joy to our cats who spend much of their time curled up on the windowsill. Snowy recently came to me for a health check. Sadly, her owners had previously lost their older cat to skin cancer of the eyelids and ears. Was there any way they could prevent this happening to Snowy?
The causes of skin cancer are complex, and factors include genetics (such as having a light haircoat, or white facial tips) and environmental sun exposure. The sun’s long-wave UVA rays penetrate deep skin, and shorter sun-burning UVB rays affect surface skin layers. Both contribute to skin cancer. Many owners know to apply a pet-safe zinc sunscreen. This helps protect pets’ ear tips, but it is difficult to keep sunscreen on the nose as they simply lick it off, and impossible to apply safely onto susceptible eyelids.
Keeping cats indoors helps, but I need to put a warning out here: UVA rays particularly, and some UVB rays, can penetrate regular glass. To be UV-protective, the glass requires a lamination film, such as is done on
“Snowy” (Cat with clear ear tips)
car windscreens. To keep Snowy safe the best option is to apply such a film to the home windows or to use a solar shade cover. The warning signs of skin cancer in cats are little scabs or non-healing wounds on the ear tips. As you can see Snowy’s skin is all clear, so the aim is to keep it that way, so Snowy can enjoy many years of happy summers with the family.
Give the Gift of Travel
New family moves in. Seen in Parkview Street, Gisborne, late in October. Twenty-two ducklings were counted, making this a very good year for ducks...
...As long as they learn some road sense.
FOR THE GREEN THUMBS
Vale Irene Perkin, staunch community advocate, founding member Friends of Daly Reserve
Irene Perkin
27 November 1939 – 24
October 2025
Irene Perkin
The sudden passing of Irene Perkin on 24 October has come as a great loss to the Friends of Daly Nature Reserve and to anyone who has had the privilege of getting to know her.
Irene was always passionate about the importance of Daly Nature Reserve and other issues she felt were important to the community. Without her commitment and determination to save the reserve from development it could well have been lost to the people of Gisborne. A founding member of the Friends of Daly Nature Reserve, Irene faithfully served as secretary of the group for more than a decade.
She was particularly passionate about the importance of protecting the environment and the value of nature. To help inspire and educate our young about nature, Irene coordinated with Gisborne Primary School, resulting in the Friends Group conducting Grade 3 student walks through the reserve. These walks are held twice a year, one in autumn when the fungi emerge and another in spring when the flowers are out.
A section of the reserve she was also passionate about was the original formal heritage garden. Irene was particularly fond of the old roses and the heritage fruit trees which were originally planted by the Daly family.
Irene was born in Stoke-on-Trent in England during WW2 and was brought up with air raid sirens and food rations, involving hardships we can only imagine. After leaving school at 15, Irene worked as a typist in the traffic department at the local police station, perhaps a sign of things to come.
Irene met Ken and they married in 1960. They had a daughter, Helen, in 1961 and soon after Ken took a role setting up a ceramics factory in Romania (then an Iron Curtain country of the USSR) so the family moved to Romania.
In 1963 after the birth of their second child, Richard, they moved back to England for a short time before Ken accepted a position in Melbourne and the next chapter of their lives began. Ken and Irene lived in Pascoe Vale and Keilor before moving the family to their “forever town”, Gisborne, in 1976.
Ken had a serious car accident on the Calder Highway in 1987 so Irene decided to start up the Macedon Ranges Road Safety Council and advocate for the duplication of the Calder. She remained secretary until the Woodend bypass was complete in 2000, and was awarded the Macedon Ranges Citizen of the Year in 1999 for services to road safety.
Irene was a member of many Gisborne clubs/groups and contributed many volunteer hours as a committee member (and often secretary). At various times she was a member of Gisborne Probus, Gisborne Garden Club, Gisborne Genealogy Group, Gisborne Arts Society,
Phoenix Arts and Crafts, and a small writing group. Irene retained her position as secretary of Friends of Daly Nature Reserve until her passing.
Irene passed away with family by her side on 24 October. She will be sorely missed around the Gisbone community.
Daly Reserve working bees
Working bees are held at 9.30am every second Tuesday of the month, finishing at 11am with a cuppa and a chat. Meet at the Scout Hall on Howey Street. There are tasks for all ages and abilities. Newcomers are always welcome. Enquiries: dalynaturereserve@gmail.com . Friends of Daly Nature Reserve
Irene (fifth from left) is pictured celebrating her birthday with the Friends of Daly Nature Reserve.
Richard Snowdon
Garden club's visit to Trentham
Garden Club members had a special treat recently, visiting a beautiful, large garden at East Trentham. The property 'Wyvernbrook' began its transformation 20 years ago when the owners bought the 10-hectare (25-acre) sheep paddock. It is now blanketed in mature silver birches, crab apples and many specimen trees, with a sweeping driveway lined with mature pin oak trees that were just coming out in their glossy green leaves.
Meandering along the brick pathways near the main house, rows of box hedges protect the more delicate flowers and scrubs. With their fragrant scent, the Rugosa rose bushes are out in flower already, forming a low hedge.
A walk to the enclosed vegetable garden then over to the espaliered apple and plum tree orchard, planted in many rows, which gives the owners many litres of apple juice and cider, with the plums made into jam. Chickens were roaming under the trees enjoying dust baths as we walked past. A quaint bed and breakfast cottage sits beside a massive gum, accessed via a foot bridge over a stream with under-planting of colourful ground covers.
The Garden Club meets monthly and new members are welcome. For more information please contact Edwina on 0407 576 545. Moira
MACEDON MAIL
Welcome to summer! A timely reminder that the fire season kicked off on 17 November. If you have any queries please visit Cfa.vic.gov.au or follow the Macedon CFA on Facebook.
Have you seen that the Community House is now open from 10am until 12 noon on Monday, Wednesday and Friday? Drop in and meet their new Administration Officer, Megan, use their internet/printer, browse the library or just pop in for a cup of tea/coffee and a chat.
Congratulations to Ben and Em on the safe arrival of their gorgeous daughter, Matilda, on 4 November.
We wish Kate Darby all the best and congratulate her on her recent retirement from AFLW. Kate played football for both Carlton and Geelong and was the recipient of several awards along the way. She has recently been nominated for the AFLW
2025 Jim Stynes Community Leadership Award.
Macedon turned on the weather for the 150 Year Anniversary Celebrations at Macedon Primary School on Saturday 15 November. A very successful and fun day was had by all.
The landscaping project stage 1 at Jubilee Hall is looking great and will be completed shortly.
Carols by Candlelight will be held at Tony Clarke Reserve on Wednesday 17 December. This is such a well run and much anticipated event each year. Let’s hope the weather is kind. Santa will be making his usual appearance.
Rain in Macedon for the period from 18 October to 11 November was 114mm. Year to date rainfall is 703mm which is slightly more than the same time last year.
Thank you to all those who have contributed to this column during the year. The support and encouragement by so many has been most appreciated.
Please get behind all our local Macedon businesses, especially at this time of year.
Best wishes to everyone for a happy and safe festive season.
Relay for Life
The Macedon Ranges Relay for Life was held at Lancefield on 8 November and included this team from Gisborne with its uniquely comfortable mode of running - for some. Even before the run, more than $25,000 had already been raised towards breast cancer research by the combined participants.
GIFTS FOR EVERY OCCASION Mae
The delightful 'Wyvernbrook' at Trentham.
Anne
The Gisborne Relay team.
Jokes & riddles
What do you have in December that you don’t have in any other month? The letter “D”
What does Tarzan sing at Christmas time? “Jungle Bells”
Can you describe the missing bank teller? Yes, he’s 180cm tall and $50,000 short.
What always follows a dog? Its tail.
We had Grandma for Christmas last year. Really? We had turkey.
Why do reindeer wear bells? Because their horns don’t work.
What is Santa’s favourite motorcycle? A Holly Davidson.
KIDS' quiz
1. In Australian currency, what is the maximum number of 5-cent coins needed to make up $5?
2. What is both an ice cream and something you hit a drum with?
3. In which city does SpongeBob SquarePants live?
4. What is the name of the pizza shop where Woody and Buzz get lost in Toy Story?
5. Who is the current King of England?
6. D, AA, and AAA, are all sizes of what?
7. What is an old-fashioned writing machine?
8. In The Simpsons, who owned the Leftorium shop?
9. Eucalyptus trees are better known by what three letter name?
10. The flag of Italy comprises what three colours?
Answers ►page 39
SPOT THE DIFFERENCE
Can you find 20 differences between the pictures?
BONUS QUIZ QUESTION:
What is the capital of Vietnam?
(Answer page 39)
Poet's Corner
Summer
The sun beams down onto my neck, Laughing and running on the scorching hot deck, Splashing in the pool, chatting and playing, The hot humid wind, watching gum trees swaying. Calyn, Grade 5
School Survival Haiku
School is almost done Examinations coming I won’t give up now Elsie, Year 7
Camp and end of year celebrations for Girl Guides
Gisborne Lightning Guides were pleased to present our two newest members Ivy and Mollie with their Promise badge and sash at a special ceremony.
The Guides have several fun activities planned to finish off their year. They have just undertaken a weekend of outdoor and nature activities at their annual camp which was held at Riddells Creek this year and involved girls from the Woodend unit. The girls especially enjoyed working together to challenge everyone to walk along the low rope challenge.
They have chosen to celebrate another great year with a session at Bounce. We will then take a welldeserved break over January. We wish all our members and interested readers a safe and happy Christmas.
If you think you would like to try Guiding next year, please refer to the Girl Guides Victoria website: www. guidesvic.org.au.
Back
Busy year not over yet for 1st Gisborne
The youngest section of Scouting - the Joeys - have been having fun this term discovering what they might want to be when they grow up. So far they have looked at being a scientist, explorer, farmer and veterinarian. They are excited to visit the Gisborne Police station.
This term the Cubs have been busy experimenting with science: making ice-cream, trying elephant toothpaste (I bet you didn’t know that elephants clean their teeth) and bravely poking pencils through water bags. They also hiked to Sanatorium Lake and celebrated Halloween with spooky costumes and games.
With a Cub restaurant, hall sleepover, 'Keys to the City' hike and a regional campfire at Treetops still to come, it has been a fantastic year and we are all looking forward to what 2026 will bring.
In October the Scouts attended Cohen Shield. This is an annual two night and three day regional
camp where Scouts set up, cook, clean and manage themselves in patrols. During the day they competed in challenge areas including building a flagpole, cooking a meal on a hike stove, crate stacking, talking to Scouts across Australia via radio and following trails using only a map and compass.
The Venturers have been out and about this term, including joining a local karate class, doing the Armstrong 500 competition hike and outdoor games and volunteering at the Macedon Ranges Relay for Life event in Lancefield (in freezing cold and rainy weather).
For more information about the fun and adventurous things that 1st Gisborne Scout Group gets up to, please follow the group on Facebook with the accompanying QR code.
Monday - Friday 9am-5pm
Carolyn Goode (Joey Leader)
1st Gisborne Cubs celebrate Halloween.
Mollie and Ivy, the newest members of Gisborne Lightning Guides.
1st New Gisborne Scout Group news
There has been much outdoor activity at New Gisborne recently.
Macedon Ranges Venturers took part in the Armstong hiking competition in wet and muddy West Gippsland. The Armstrong hike is a teambased competition which includes challenges that involve skills such as construction, first aid, initiative, communication, creativity, mapping and more.
Despite a wet weekend the Joeys, Cubs, Scouts and Rovers had a lot of fun camping at Rowallan in the Mount Charlie State Forest. There was much activity with ropes, bushwalking and archery, and of course a warming fire. A highlight was the presentation of Australian Scout Awards to Tori and Jack. This is the highest award in the Scout section, a milestone in a Scout's life.
Coming soon is our December end-of-year family Canoe Night at Nursery Lake, Macedon, always fun.
We are nearing the fit out of our Scout Hut, with toilet block, storage spaces and kitchen etc. This will offer a safe, functional, and inspiring space for our young people. Donations are tax-deductible. Call us for details.
Scouting offers proven programs for families. We have vacancies in our Scout Unit as some of our older Scouts “Go Up” to Venturers.
We meet Wednesdays, 6.30pm to 8pm, at the Church of Christ in Saunders Road. Venturers on Fridays.
Venturers Levi, Joe and Chris work on their competition hike in Gippsland.
For more information, contact Group Leader Russell Barker on 0400 297 025 or russell@jeem. com.au. For Venturers call Tracey 0407 098 032. John Frearson
Genealogical Group
The final function for the Gisborne Genealogical Group for this year will be the annual Christmas Dinner on Friday 5 December. Bookings essential - please contact Lorna on 0402 091 034 or email lorna_jackson@bigpond.com.
The Family History Room adjoining the Gisborne Library will close on Thursday 18 December. (The room is open for research on Tuesdays from 10am to 1pm and Thursdays from 2pm to 5pm). The group will then go into recess until February.
Next year will be a little different due to the proposed refurbishment of the Genealogy Room, thanks to the Goldfields Library Corporation and the Macedon Ranges Shire Council. This is planned to take place during the first half of next year so the room will not reopen in February as usual. The Genealogy Group hopes to retain most of its functions during the refurbishment. More details will be in the February edition of the Gazette Our thanks to all of the Gazette team for their support during the year.
The Gisborne Genealogy Group wishes all our members and readers a happy and safe Christmas. We look forward to the New Year, and our new room, with great anticipation. More information is available on our website www. ggg.org.au
Lyn Hall
Lyn Hall
fun in Gisborne
Halloween was celebrated with enthusiasm around Gisborne, and a whole lot of effort went into these displays captured in Childe Harold Road in Gisborne South. Halloween originated from the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, and its modern traditions such as trick-or-treating and jack-o'-lanterns have roots in older customs from Ireland and Scotland. Early trick-or-treaters had to dance for their sweets.
Fun facts: Did you know that the fear of Halloween is called 'samhainophobia'? Some symbols, like black cats and the colours orange and black, have symbolic meanings. And the next time there will be a full moon for Halloween will be 2039.
Gus and Violet are happy to leap around their display and put on a scary show for passers-by.
SCHOOL'S IN
A school with all the creature comforts...
Gisborne’s champion classmate, Chester.
At New Gisborne Primary School, we have a wellbeing dog named Chester. Chester is a groodle who arrived at the school back in 2023. Chester is at school three days a week; Monday, Wednesday and Friday. He often goes for walks around the school with our assistant principal, Mrs Boyd.
Everyone loves Chester (including the staff) and always come up to pat him when they see him; he loves the attention. Chester is very well trained too, he will
short walks and letting him stay in the office for a short while.
All of it was worth it though, as now he is very comfortable around the school, and even falls asleep wherever he wants.
Mrs Boyd got Chester because she hoped he would help kids who felt reluctant to come to school, and to promote and support good mental health in students. Chester has helped with that and made everyone else happy as well, which is very good.
Everyone loves Chester and Chester loves everyone because he gets pats. Chester is a very good boy and will continue to be one for as long as he can.
Jessica, Year 6 reporter
What's happening at Gisborne Primary School
Foodbank
Throughout November, Gisborne Primary School collected food for the Gisborne Foodbank. Each class brought different foods in, like canned foods, Christmas foods, cereal, pasta and more.
At the end of November we gave all of the food to the Gisborne Foodbank and they then give the food to people in need. People can go to the Foodbank if they aren’t able to afford food, and can take food home for their families.
In our school, the class that brings in the most food wins icy poles for the whole class. This is something that Gisborne does every year in November, donating food to the Foodbank.
Diabetes Day
Ella and Ruby
Year 6 Writers’ Club
On the 14 November our school celebrated World Diabetes Day. In recognition of this day all students from GPS were encouraged to wear blue and bring in a gold coin donation for those who have been diagnosed with T1D (Type 1 Diabetes). When you have diabetes, you have to manage insulin levels that are normally stabilised with an organ in your body called the pancreas. For people with T1D, they have to do all the work, as their pancreas doesn’t like to make insulin anymore. It was a great day, with lots of money raised. Thank you to our Community Leaders for making this day possible.
Tamsyn R Year 6 Writers’ Club
Gisborne Primary Fete report ►page 26
New
Jessica
St Brigid’s day of Pilgrimage
St Brigid’s had a Pilgrimage on 17 October to celebrate the Jubilee Year of Hope that happens every 25 years.
The first activity that the Grade 5s and 6s did was a walk through Sankey Oval with "pinwheels of hope" and they had to stop at tables with marker pens to write down nice things about their friends and family. After that, they started running down the hill and having fun.
"I thought that the first activity was amazing, being in nature near Sankey and remembering what I’m grateful for as we decorated pinwheels of hope." - Eleni
After the activity at the Sankey the Grade 5s and 6s went to the creek. They reflected on the Pilgrimage and decorated crosses that reflected life and nature and how to protect it. They then talked about ways to stop global warming and what we see in our daily life.
"It was a great time to reflect on nature, life and things we should notice in our daily lives. And we closed our eyes and reflected about our daily lives and how we connect with nature." - Ollie
Fond farewell for Bullengarook school principal
There was loud applause and cries of “We love you Brendan” from the students as Principal Brendan Nolan walked into his final assembly at Bullengarook Special ist School on 24 April.
viewed by a panel of six students about his career and time at the school and then three students spoke warmly about their relationship with Brendan and made presen tations to him.
Fun, family and community spirit at Gisborne Primary School Fete
The Gisborne Primary School community came together on 21 November for a wonderful afternoon of fun, food and connection at the school’s Fete – its first for quite some time.
Held exclusively for school families, the event brought together students, parents and staff to celebrate everything that makes Gisborne Primary a special place. The school oval was transformed into a lively hub of colour and laughter, with rides, games, stalls and activities that had something for everyone.
The atmosphere was relaxed yet full of energy as families wandered between stalls, enjoyed the rides, visited the reptile show, animal farm and face painting, and supported their school community.
After the Grade 5s and 6s went to the creek they walked to the adventure park and met Emma’s lovely mum, Trish. There were five doors, green, yellow, red, orange and blue. The students needed to knock on each door and write or draw what they thought the affirmation meant. Then they walked through a big arch and imagined it as the Pilgrim Door.
"I loved where we got to walk through the arch, I felt like a real Pilgrim. I love where we got to walk around, knock on the doors and write down what we thought the beautiful affirmations said in our minds." - Ava
After this they walked over to the Botanic Gardens and wrote on coloured paper about how to follow in Jesus’ footsteps They also played follow the leader with different people as the leader
"It was great! I loved how we did follow the leader and I liked how we wrote and drew in the feet. I also wrote a really nice way of following in Jesus’ footsteps." - Jono
It was such a fantastic day We would like to thank Emma, Trish and everyone who helped to make it a wonderful experience
There were art and Lego competitions, and the vibrant artwork and impressive Lego creations drew plenty of admiration from families and friends.
Principal Matthew Forrest said the event was a great success and a reflection of the school’s strong community spirit.
“It was fantastic to see so many families and students enjoying themselves and celebrating together," he said. “We have an amazing community here at Gisborne Primary School and the support they have shown us is incredible,” he said.
The fete also featured a popular silent auction and raffle, with generous prizes donated by local businesses and families. Funds raised will go towards the school’s new courtyard and playground project.
PFA President Donna Wallace, who led the organisation of the fete, said it was rewarding to see the community come together after months of preparation. “It was a wonderful afternoon filled with smiles, laughter and connection. I’m so thankful to everyone who pitched in — whether by volunteering, donating, or joining us on the day to celebrate our school,” she said.
Bulletin from Macedon Primary School
The Macedon girls’ softball team went to Corio to do regional softball on 29 October. They came second and, excitingly, got invited to go to compete at state level, as one of the other teams dropped out. We wish the girls luck for state.
On 6 November the Macedon girls’ Hotshots tennis team went to regionals and tried their very best. They ended up coming second by just one point, which unfortunately means they will not advance to state, but still, great job to the team.
Macedon Primary has now got new basketball rings, all the students have been loving them. Thanks to the PFA for raising the funds for these.
Macedon PS celebrated its 150th anniversary with a fete on 15 November.
And lastly, Macedon Primary had its Writers’ Festival earlier this term, when all the parents came to the school to see all the wonderful work that the kids have done in writing. It was a huge success.
Yuka and Cooper, 2025 School Captains
at Bullengarook in 2008 and was instrumental in securing funding and overseeing the $20 million worth of building projects at the school.
Brendan Nolan listens as students speak warmly about him.
S Brigid's
The students gather together and form the word 'Hope'.
GISBORNE SECONDARY COLLEGE
End of year news for GSC
Over the term break a number of Gisborne Secondary College students had success in the sporting arena.
Jake and James S of Year 12, together with Nathan B of Year 10, represented Central Victoria at the National Schools Futsal Championship, finishing runners-up in the Under 19 boy’s category. Neeve K of Year 7 represented Victoria in the weeklong Australian Volleyball Nationals tournament in the Under 14 division held in Perth. The team didn’t make medals, but had a wonderful experience, and Neeve has her eyes set on state selection again next year.
We hit the ground running for Term 4, literally, with a team of students competing at the Western Metropolitan Region Athletics. The results saw two of our Year 10 students progress to the next level of
competition: Isabelle K finished first in the 1500m and second in the 3000m track events, and Ruby W finished first in the 100m sprint and second in the long jump. Amazing achievements by these athletes.
As this edition of the Gazette is distributed, Year 12 students will be sitting the VCE English examination which kicks off the VCE written exam period. Huge thanks goes to the families in supporting their children through this final period of Year 12. It was great to see students attend school over the term break to sit practice exams in preparation for the real thing.
Thank you to Jo-Ann Irwin and Lauren Harrison from their respective Community Bank branches for presenting to the Year 12s about the various scholarship opportunities available to them to support tertiary study next year.
We now plan for Year 11 and 10 semester exams, 'Step Up' for all year levels to their 2026 classes, Orientation day for Grade 6 students, the next round of Family Kitchen Workshops and the College Awards Night in the last week of term, among many other events and activities.
Susanne Tzamouranis,
Community Liaison
Pink Ribbons and Porsches
$3000 raised for breast cancer research
The Porsche Club of Victoria Women’s Group hosted a Pink Ribbon Brunch at Hanging Rock on 26 October. They started in Gisborne, had a drive through the Ranges, then ended at the Rock for brunch.
There were 31 ladies (seven from the local area) attending, and 19 Porsches, and over $3000 was raised for breast cancer research.
Karen Bentley
...And at left, the fund-raising ladies enjoy lunch at the Hanging Rock cafe.
A school makeover for Mt Macedon
New fencing and basketball court
A few days ago we got new fencing around the school. We also got new fencing around our basketball court. It is much better than our old one, and we are super happy with the end result.
Man cave incursion
On 29 November we had Man Cave Incursion; it was all about helping young people express their emotions, and help transition into higher years of
school. Overall, I think it was a really good experience and I would suggest that others of our age should try it.
New playground
On 11 September an Aboriginal Elder, Peri, came to our school to do a smoking ceremony for the opening of the playground. He used traditional herbs and plants, and we all walked through the smoke to cleanse ourselves of evil spirits.
By Jasper E and Flora Q
SERVICES
• Children's health checks advice and treatment including routine childhood immunisations.
• Women's health advice and treatment on contraception, antenatal and obstetric shared care, cervical screens, and breast checks.
• Men’s health advice and treatment about concerns such as physical issues, prostate checks.
• Mental health diagnosis and treatment, care plans, and referrals to counselling services.
• Health checks, including physical check-ups and tests for lifestyle concerns such as diabetes and cholesterol levels.
• Cancer screening spirometry testing audiometry testing heart health checks and ECG
• Diagnosis and management of chronic diseases such as asthma and diabetes.
• Full body skin checks, individual spot checks, minor and complex excisions.
on Wednesday and Friday 10am to 3pm
to provide temporary food assistance for those in need Enter via Heritage Way at the back of the Gisborne Uniting Church
Above, Porsches lined up at Hanging Rock...
Gazette STUDENT AWARDS
MACEDON RANGES & SUNBURY SPECIALIST SCHOOL
Lachlan Gardiner
Lachlan has consistently shown strong leadership, always uplifting others with his kind and friendly nature. He’s built positive, genuine relationships across the school community and shown real dedication to his learning. His impressive results in VPC studies reflect his hard work, commitment, and the positive example he sets for everyone around him.
Mitchell has developed meaningful new friendships throughout the year and consistently shown a strong work ethic in class. He applies himself across all curriculum areas and demonstrates solid understanding in his learning. His positive attitude, growth, and commitment make him a deserving recipient of this award.
CONGRATULATIONS!
MT MACEDON PRIMARY SCHOOL
Raphy Crawford
NEW GISBORNE PRIMARY SCHOOL
Sol Muecke
Sol is a motivated and energetic student who strives for excellence. He is consistently polite and courteous, and he acts with integrity in all aspects of school life. Sol loves to take on new challenges, participating in the Maths Olympiad and representing New Gisborne Primary School as part of the chess and Hot Shots tennis teams. He is enthusiastic about contributing and is often the first to volunteer, embodying the values of our school with kindness and enthusiasm.
Raphy has been a wonderful school captain and role model this year. He has always put himself forward to help his peers and has gone above and beyond his own expectations for this year. Raphy has set himself up wonderfully for the move to secondary school next year. Well done Raphy!
Mirra-Joy Newlove
Mirra-Joy has been a fantastic leader for the Mount Macedon students this year. MirraJoy has consistently shown how caring and welcoming she can be for all students and visitors to our school. The school is enormously proud to have had Mirra-Joy as a representative of our school and her kind nature has left a remarkably positive impact on everyone at MMPS. Well done Mirra!
Eloise has demonstrated outstanding leadership and dedication within the school community. She approaches every task with focus, determination, and a strong sense of responsibility, consistently producing work of a high standard. As a Student Leader, she sets a positive example for her peers. Eloise embraces new challenges with enthusiasm, participating in the Maths Olympiad, the Energy Breakthrough Team, and several district sports teams. Her commitment, positivity, and willingness to contribute make her a respected and valued member of our school.
GISBORNE PRIMARY SCHOOL
Finlay Atkinson
Finlay has been a friendly, positive and uplifting member of our school community. He relates well to all his peers and has been a respected, responsible sport leader in 2025. Fin provides a delightful combination of creativity, deep thinking and a thoroughly enjoyable sense of humour. Well done!
Nellie Wallace
Nellie is a thoughtful, kind, and creative student who radiates warmth and positivity. She shows strong leadership, listening and working collaboratively with others. She is passionate about the arts, expressing herself through many creative pursuits such as drawing. Nellie upholds school values and is a trusted friend who builds genuine, supportive relationships.
MACEDON PRIMARY SCHOOL
Josh Meldrum
Josh is an outstanding student who demonstrates leadership in all that he does. He treats others with respect and consistently ensures fairness for everyone. Josh represented our school with pride at sporting events, always showing sportsmanship and respect. He is a positive role model and is a highly respected member of Year 6.
Maggie Maher
Maggie is an organised and caring student who consistently demonstrates strong leadership skills. She shows genuine care and kindness towards others, offering help and encouragement to anyone in need of support. Maggie listens to others’ ideas, makes fair decisions and helps everyone stay focused and positive.
GAZETTE AWARDS
Every year the Gazette awards $50 each to two outstanding students from the local schools, all of whom are chosen by their schools. Congratulations to all these students!
WILLOWBANK PRIMARY SCHOOL
Hudson Travis
Hudson Travis has shown remarkable personal growth this year, emerging as an inspiring role model for younger students. As a dedicated House Leader, he fulfils his duties with integrity and enthusiasm. Hudson consistently represents our school with pride at sporting events, achieving multiple Division qualifications through effort, resilience and commitment.
Emily Jaeger
Emily Jaeger is a diligent and dedicated student who applies outstanding effort to every aspect of her schooling. Her kindness and care for others enrich our school community. As School Captain, Emily has led with commitment, enthusiasm and integrity, exemplifying the qualities of an inspiring role model and student leader.
Mitchell Heim
Eloise Steinfort
Harrison Wilkes
HOLY CROSS PRIMARY SCHOOL
Lachlan Wilkes
Positive, hardworking and easy-going, Harry Wilkes has been a joy to teach. His kind-hearted nature, energy and genuine care for others shine through daily. Harry gives 100% to everything he does and is consistently reliable, trustworthy and honest. Congratulations, Harry, on this well-deserved award.
Welcoming, positive and kindhearted, Lachlan Wilkes has been a highly respected and supportive classmate. His attitude towards learning and school life has been exemplary. A collaborative worker and enthusiastic sports participant, Lachie consistently strives for excellence. Congratulations, Lachie, on this well-deserved award.
GISBORNE SECONDARY COLLEGE
Alexander Evans, Yr 9
Alex has consistently demonstrated the value of Respect during our RAID (Respect, Achievement, Innovation, and Diversity) excursions by interacting with members of the public, staff, and peers in a kind and considerate manner. He communicates politely, listens to others’ perspectives, and represents the school with maturity and thoughtfulness in every single setting.
Proudly sponsored by Rob Mitchell
'LIV Golf' arrives at Gisborne
The LIV Golf Party Hole has become a major drawcard to the golfing world. Professional golfers tee up on a Par 3 hole in front of a large crowd, with music blaring, spectators cheering and a complete party atmosphere explodes. People love it as it challenges the old “Ssshhhh! Be quiet!” traditional game.
The Gisborne Golf Club also embraces an environment of both traditional serious golf, but every now and then we throw in the party hole.
In November, we transformed the majestic 16th Par 3 hole over the water into the 'BBQ Party Hole', where well-chosen music blared over the speakers as golfers displayed their skills trying to hit the green amongst smiles, laughter and pure enjoyment.
Of the 120 golfers who participated in the BBQ Party hole, 24 managed to land on the green amid cheers and back-slapping from their golfing buddies. The club paid out $670 to these skilled and somewhat lucky golfers. Almost the same number of golfers buckled under the pressure, shanking their shots and landing in the water, again amid laughter and cheers.
Overall, the club raises around $1500 each time we
Orla Calcagno
ST BRIGID'S PRIMARY SCHOOL
Orla has shown outstanding leadership this year, taking initiative in school and community projects, including leading the Arcare visits program. She has embraced responsibility with maturity, encouraged others to participate and represented St Brigid’s with pride. Her achievements extend to sport, where she excelled in futsal through skill, teamwork and commitment. Orla’s dedication, community spirit and success make her a role model for her peers.
Lily Siu, Yr 12
Lily has shown exemplary leadership through her positive captaincy of junior sports teams, sharing her knowledge of the school through leading tours for prospective families, as well as involvement in school activities through her formal Vice- Captaincy role. She has done all of this without compromising her high academic aspirations.
Lila Gallagher
Lila has shown conducted herself with empathy, positivity and maturity in her studies and community projects. She has thrived in her leadership of the Arcare program and has become a role model for her peers, guiding class discussion with neutrality and consideration. Lila’s leadership style encourages those around her to succeed in all areas from interschool sport to historical inquiries. She is a wonderful representative of the spirit of St Brigid and
CONGRATULATIONS!
AROUND THE GROUNDS
hold this event, which we are truly grateful for and which goes towards our club rebuild. But it’s not always about the money; we love golf, we love the camaraderie, and we love having fun. I think psychologists might start recommending people take up golf to shake the blues away and connect with other great people.
I can’t wait for the next BBQ Party Hole this month; 'tis the season to be jolly. Dom Hogan
Vixens visit MRNA Under 9 festival
The Macedon Ranges Netball Association hosted its first Under 9 Festival on 15 November. The event was designed as a celebration of our littlest netballers, giving them the chance to develop new skills, build confidence, and enjoy a memorable day on the court.
The festival aimed to create an encouraging environment where young players could learn, play and connect with others who share their love of the sport.
To start the day, a free “Come and Try” session was held for 5- and 6-year-olds, introducing them to the fundamentals of netball through fun, supportive activities. For our 7- to 9-year-olds, a round-robin competition provided plenty of valuable game time experience, allowing them to put their developing skills into practice.
The excitement grew with a special visit from 'Foxy,' the beloved Melbourne Vixens mascot, who added colour and energy to the festival atmosphere.
Attendees were also thrilled to see the 2025 Suncorp Super Netball Premiership Cup on display, proudly won by the Melbourne Vixens. Continued ►page 32
Jeremy Redmond on the barbecue tools, with Dom Hogan and Paul Farina on BBQ Party Hole day.
folk at the Croquet Club
With the croquet season in full swing and courts coming back to their spring growth, Macedon Ranges Croquet Club started the season with their bi-annual Watts Trophy game against Kyneton Croquet Club. With a hard fought first half, Kyneton finished up taking the day out. Congratulations. We can’t wait for the rematch in March 2026.
On Melbourne Cup Day we had a fun day full of games of croquet, sweeps and a fancy hat competition. There was also a great luncheon supplied by members of the club.
The prize for best hats went to Terry (best male hat), Glynis (best female hat) with Gill a close runner up. Thanks to all those who attended.
The club is open to new individuals who would like to come and try croquet with a friendly group of people. We play Mondays, Wednesday, and Saturdays with 9.30am starts. We are situated at Dixon Field in Gisborne. Come and try with us.
Happy hooping.
Equal course record in Mt Macedon Open
Terry
SUPPORT AT HOME
The Melbourne Cup Weekend played host to one of the highlights of the Mount Macedon Golf Club calendar with the staging of the 2025 MMGC Open. The event was held over two days with a two-person Ambrose event on Saturday, which was supported by a strong field of both members and visitors, and was won by Bradyn Beattie and Greg Paine with net 54.5. A full field contested the 27-hole stroke even on Sunday with Cam Pascoe crowned the 2025 winner on the back of a course record equaling 64 on the first 18.
The mid-week Mug of the Month Stableford event was won by Mike Hoiles with a score of 35 on countback from Ian Flannery who just failed in his attempt to complete a hat trick of Mugs. B Grade was won by Jenny Svendsen with 34 points.
Outside of golf, the club recently played host to the third Macedon Ranges Suicide Action Group (MRSPAG) which saw attendees enjoy a barbecue meal that was followed by a presentation from former police sergeant, Mark Thomas.
With the year coming to an end the club would like to wish all members and visitors a Merry Christmas and enjoyable New Year. Hopefully there will be time for everyone to enjoy the warm summer evenings on the course.
Sean Bassett
Futsal coaching with heart
Tom Blumson-Theile is one of the many dedicated parents who choose to coach their child’s sports team.
When asked what motivates him, Tom’s response captures the true spirit of parent coaches: “It’s a nice way to spend time with my son.” Beyond that, he finds fulfillment in watching the players grow both individually and as a team while learning to show respect for fellow players, coaches, and referees.
Tom’s main message to his team is to keep the game fun. He believes that setting small, achievable team goals helps players stay positive and shifts the focus away from just winning or losing. He emphasises the importance of having each other’s backs, no matter the score.
“We regularly discuss how it makes you feel if some-
one says something negative towards you and how that can impact a person’s playing abilities,” he says. Instead, Tom encourages his players to support one another through mistakes, reminding each other not to worry and reinforcing that they’re in it together, regardless of the outcome.
His approach to training is just as thoughtful. Tom sees practice sessions as a chance to learn about each other’s strengths and challenges, so the team can build a supportive environment and stay positive, even during tough moments.
Tom is also a member of the Macedon Ranges Futsal Committee.
To the Macedon Ranges futsal community and readers, have a happy Christmas and enjoy the summer break.
Kristy Mutsaers Committee member MRF
Volunteers, the club applauds you
As 2025 comes to its end, the South Gisborne Tennis Club would like to applaud our band of volunteers who turn up week in week out and make our club and facility the place to be.
Many programs, teams, maintenance, events, social activities and good governance, along with all those hidden little things that are needed for a club to function, are performed with minimum fuss. Thank you!
Tennis Victoria acknowledged a long-time volunteer of the club, Mary Biber, with a Service Award at the recent All Abilities tennis challenge.
Mary has been part of the South Gisborne
tennis community for over 40 years. She is always willing to offer her time in support of the club, its programs and social events.
Mary very rarely missed an opportunity to take to the court weekly when the All Abilities participants needed support and a friendly face to guide them. Congratulations Mary!
While the Spark coaching team under Mario’s guidance has had a huge year, stay tuned for more to come in 2026.
The Christmas break up and doubles tournament finish off the year on 7 December. The committee wishes all our SGTC community a safe and fun holiday break.
Gail
Mary Biber cheerily assists with All Abilities tennis on what looks to be a freezing day.
Macedon in ladies' tennis grand final
Congratulations to Macedon Tennis Club's Section 4 women's team, who have made it through to the grand final of the MDLTA (Mountain District Ladies Tennis Association) Tuesday competition, and to the Section 1 team, who are in the preliminary final. The MDLTA plays eight-game sets, so it can be a tough gig. The preliminary final was due to be played on 25 November (after the Gazette went to press) and the grand final is on 2 December. Good luck to all! Centenary Cup pictures ► page 33
Bowling for everyone at Macedon Bowling Club
Did you know that the average age of our Australian lawn bowls team is 30? This is younger than our Australian cricket team. Yes, the majority of bowlers might be in the older age category, but younger bowlers are coming to know the enjoyment of bowling. Join us for Barefoot Bowls on Friday 5 December from 5.30pm. Bookings: treasurermacedonbowls@gmail. com . Lesley Ritchie
Futsal coach Tom Blumson-Thiele in action
Flat-soled footwear can be worn at Barefoot Bowls.
Finishing up another good year of petanque
Vixens visit MRNA Under 9 festival
Continued from page 29
Vixen players Hannah Mundy and Kate Eddy joined the festivities as well, taking time to meet families, pose for photos and inspire the next generation of netballers.
The entire day was filled with music, fun, laughter and wonderful netball moments.
Netball continues to thrive in the Macedon Ranges and we look forward to welcoming everyone back for an even bigger season in 2026. For more information on the 2026 season please contact president@macedonrangesnetball.com.au . Lauren O’Grady
It’s December and another year of petanque is coming to an end. Having made it through a cold winter, and a wet and unpredictable spring, we look forward to a warm, sunny, summer of petanque.
We would like to thank Alison Kinghorn who is stepping down after 10 years of writing the Mt Macedon Petanque Club monthly Gazette article, and in reflection, to all volunteers who give their time freely to our clubs, organisations and communities.
Petanque, once a traditional game played in small villages and provincial towns across France, is played in over 160 countries with an estimated player base in the millions. A portable, inexpensive, low-impact and inclusive sport, it’s
played on many different surfaces known as pistes, and offers many social and health benefits to all ages.
If you are interested in giving petanque a try, we’re situated behind the Ampol Service Station in Station Road, Gisborne. Equipment and instructions available. Playdays are Wednesdays from 2pm to 5pm and the second and fourth Saturdays of the month from 10am to 1pm.
The last play day of the year will be Wednesday 17 December. Then we will be back on Wednesday 7 January.
Enquiries online via www.mtmacedonpetanque.org or Facebook: Mt Macedon Petanque Club Inc.
Governor visits Mt Macedon project for botanic artist statue
The Ellis Rowan Sculpture Committee was delighted to host a visit on 29 October by the Victorian Governor, Margaret Gardner AC.
The Governor is very knowledgeable - and interested in learning more - about local botanical artist Ellis Rowan who died in 1922, after a long career as a renowned figure in the Victorian art world. The Governor was enthusiastic about the project to honour Ellis Rowan with a public sculpture in Mount Macedon.
She visited sculptor Jennifer Mann’s studio in Barringo to see the life-size clay sculpture of Ellis Rowan which is still in progress. She was delighted by the remarkable likeness that Jennifer has captured, and she was interested in all aspects of the various phases of the sculpting side of the project.
The Governor also visited Viewfield, the property in Mt Macedon where Rowan lived for many years until her death in 1922. After many years of neglect the garden of Viewfield was lovingly restored by current owners Vicki and Les Hawken.
The visit culminated at Derriweit Heights on the mount, the site of the original Rowan family home where Derriweit’s owners, Paul and Annie
Mulkearns, hosted a morning tea.
When the clay sculpture is finished at the end of the year, it will be ready to cast in bronze. The Committee is calling on anyone who has been thinking about donating to the project to do so now so that we can proceed to the next phase.
All donations above $2 are tax deductible and can be made via the following link:
Sculptor Jennifer Mann (left) and the Governor view the work in progress.
Netball was invented in 1895 in England, where it was originally an adaption of basketball to tackle the clothing restrictions of women.
Vixen players Hannah Mundy and Kate Eddy, and mascot Foxy at rear, join excited junior netballers in New Gisborne.
Pictures by Chris Fleming
All photos are available at minimal price from Maddisons of Gisborne,
SPORT IN PICTURES
Macedon Tennis Club held the finals of the inaugural Centenary Cup tournament on 22 November, established in recognition of the club’s centenary being celebrated this year.
The finals were followed by the presentations, the AGM, and a welcome spit roast. Congratulations to all those who worked so hard on Centenary activities.
37 Hamilton Street.
Asher Taylor-Duncan, winner A Grade Girls.
Sienna Ranson, runner up A Grade Girls.
Coaches present and past: Ashleigh Woda and John Tadd at the Centenary Cup.
The eventual winner, Paul Podbury.
Joel Woodhouse, winner B grade Boys.
Mark Thomas and Paul Podbury before the Men’s A grade final.
Rupert Richards, runner up B grade Boys. William Martin, winner A grade Boys. Ethan Collins, runner up A grade Boys.
All
from
Under 10 basketball: Gisborne Bulldogs v the Lions, 8 November.
Rangers v Rock Stars, Grade 1-2 futsal, 20 November.
Twilight junior netball, United v Rebels, 11 November.
Twilight netball, Avocadoes v Cool Cats, 11 November.
Bad luck for Macedon’s B Ford, who was bowled by H Smith in their McIntyre Cup match, 1 November.
C Clayton with the ball for Macedon in McIntyre Cup match against Woodend, 22 November.
Kay lines up the bowls for Gisborne Division 1 v Kyneton, 1 November.
Gisborne’s Riley Vernon bowls against Wallan, McIntyre Cup, 15 November.
Skye Francis bowls for Gisborne in a Girls’ Under 15 match against Riddell-Romsey, 14 November.
Pictures by Chris Fleming
available
Maddisons of Gisborne, Hamilton Street, at low cost.
Gisborne batter Harry Luxmore swings the bat against Wallan in the firsts (McIntyre Cup) on 15 November.
Sponsored by Anglican Parish of Gisborne ■ Uniting Church in Australia ■ St
Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Gisborne ■ House of the Rock Church, Gisborne
■ Gisborne Church of Christ
Put a carol in your Christmas stocking
Gisborne Uniting Church
Asked to name a favourite carol, the default position might be Away in a Manger remembered from childhood nativity enactments. There are many, many more options in the list of carols composed first in the 9th century and continuing into this one. They are sung in churches from late November to mid-January and might feature in our kitchens as we stir the Christmas pudding.
In your Christmas stocking of favourites might also be Silent Night. Popular from its 19th century origin in Austria, it was the crooning of Bing Crosby in a 1945 film which made it really popular across the oceans. Tellingly, it was the carol sung from the Flanders trenches on Christmas Eve 1914 which so illustrated the stupidity of a war among European cousins who shared the same Christmas traditions.
Some of us like the hearty Good King Wenceslas even though its wintry setting is scarcely ours and he was not, in fact, a king but the kind-hearted Duke of
Recently a Blessing of the Animals service was held at Mount Macedon Uniting Church. We were reminded that “dominion” brings great responsibilities. We give thanks for the numerous ways that animals serve humans – pets, companions, support, service, sport and entertainment, food and fibre, wildlife. So many ways by which we benefit and gain enjoyment from them.
Christmas is nearly here again. Our celebrated Christmas Tree will again be in the church. Our renowned Service of Lessons and Carols will be held on Christmas Eve at 7pm. Many locals and visitors make this an annual event with us.
THE CHURCHES
Bavaria. It is a story of Christmas generosity which makes in still relevant.
Personally, I’d also opt for The little drummer boy. In 1941 American Kath Davis claimed she was taking a nap when the music came to her. The drummer boy is no duke but he desperately wants to bring a gift to the Christ child. All he has is a talent for drumming. The carol’s infectious rhythms made it a favourite from the von Trapp family to Aled Jones.
And, looking out our window, perhaps The north wind is blowing the leaves; the red dust is over the town. An Australian carol for an Australian Christmas.
If you love carols, join us in the Uniting Church, 23 Brantome Street, for Christmas Eve (7.30pm) and Christmas Day (9.30am) services. And if you’re scratching your head about a gift, come and see us our tables of plants on Saturday December 6 from 9.30am until sold out.
Janet Wood
St Brigid’s Parish Gisborne
Parish Priest: Fr. John Healy
Assistant Priest: Fr. Wahid Riad
2026 Baptism
Baptism is available each month, generally on the 4th Sunday. Please contact the parish office for the next available dates. The 2026 Baptism calendar has now been set.
Enquiries to: gisborne@cam.org.au or 5428 2591.
2026 Sacraments
Registration is now open for Sacraments to be celebrated in 2026.
Please contact the office at gisborne@cam. org.au if you would like to be included in information sent out for Sacraments in 2026.
Reconciliation available to Year 3 and above, Holy Communion available to Year 4 and above and Confirmation available to Year 6 and above. Sacrament fee for 2026 is $125.
Our Christmas morning service will be at 9am and is also popular. Come and join us at 682 Mount Macedon Road, Mount Macedon, for one or both this year!
Special thanks to all the Gazette team for another
Muddy’s Christmas Musings Blessing the Animals on the mount
As Christmas draws near, we find ourselves again pausing amid a world that feels restless and uncertain. The past year has seen wars rage, communities divided, and creation groaning under the strain of human need and neglect. And yet, into every age of anxiety, the message of Christmas remains constant: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it” (John 1:5).
In Bethlehem, God’s love took human form — not in power or splendour, but in a vulnerable child. That child, Jesus Christ, is God’s gift to the world: a sign that love
spectacular year, especially editors Katrina and Bryan for their neverending patience.
Neil Tweddle 0488 001 336
Baptism details required for registration.Parish Secretary: Tammie Dalgleish
Office hours: Tuesday and Thursday 9am to 5pm Parish website: www.melbcatholic.org/s/gisborne
Parish Carols in the Hall
Sunday 7 December St Brigid’s Hall from 2pm to 4pm.
Normal weekend services
Saturday 6pm St Brigid’s Gisborne
Sunday 8am St Ambrose Riddells Creek
Sunday 9:30am St Patrick’s Macedon
Sunday 11am St Brigid’s Gisborne
Everyone welcome!
Christmas Day Mass
8:30am at Riddells Creek
10:30pm at Gisborne
The Parish Office will be closed from 8 to 22 January.
is stronger than fear, and hope more enduring than despair.
As St Francis of Assisi once said, “For it is in giving that we receive.” The generosity we show one another — in kindness, forgiveness, and care — becomes the very way Christ’s light continues to shine.
Christmas is not merely a holiday; it is a reminder that peace begins in the human heart, and that each of us is called to be a bearer of that peace.
You are warmly invited to share in the joy of this holy
season with the Anglican Parish of Gisborne. Join us for our Christmas celebrations — moments of song, candlelight, and reflection — as we welcome again the Christ Child, the greatest gift of all. With services at 5pm at Gisborne, 11pm at Macedon Christmas Eve, and 9am Christmas morning at Gisborne, there’s something for all ages.
May God bless you and all whom you love this Christmas and in the year to come.
Fr Scott Mudd Vicar, Anglican Parish of Gisborne
Tammie
Benson, Geordie and Jaegar - mates!
CHRISTMAS CAROLS IN GISBORNE
CROSSWORD
Compiled by Chris Antoniou Homographs
(Words that are spelt the same but have different meanings)
ACROSS
2. A device to lift a car, and a face card in poker
DOWN
1. To melt metal, and what your nose did
5. Writing words correctly, and a wizard’s incantation
6. Ferrous metal and to flatten clean clothes
7. A heavy rail vehicle, and teaching a practical skill
9. A very inclined slope, and to let tea brew
10. Three feet, and the land at the back of a house
13. A large ursine animal, and to put up with something
14. A bright spot, and something not heavy
15. Part of a bagpipe, and an unmanned aircraft
16. A narrow valley, and to eat greedily
17. A machine for lifting heavy weights, and a wading bird.
3. A bird, and an important person in the Catholic church
4. An apartment, and a tyre without air
5. To forcefully put your foot down, and postage
8. A type of lettuce, and what sank the Titanic
9. A tortoise's home, and ammunition for artillery
11. Close to me, and expensive
12. The price of a bus ticket, and a menu
16. A set of clothes, and part of a car’s transmission.
1. The poet Virgil lived in which ancient empire?
2. In Hinduism and beginning with B, which god is the creator?
3. Which architect designed the city of Canberra?
4. Which actress starred in the movie Breakfast at Tiffany’s?
5. Frank Sinatra was born in Hoboken in which US state?
Answers page 39
6. In art, the Archibald Prize is awarded for what sort of painting?
7. Worth a quarter of a penny and discontinued in 1960 was which Australian coin?
8. What number does the Roman numeral CCXLIV represent?
9. From the first two letters of which alphabet is the alphabet named?
10. Who was Australia’s third Prime Minister?
Answers page 39
Tales of old Gisborne The bush fire of 1944
by Peter and Eddie Gardiner
Eddie: The disastrous bush fire of 1944 Friday 14 January took its toll and left its mark on the town’s people for years to come. Fifty years later our Mum still filled every available water container even into her nineties on bad fire days.
The fire burnt from Trentham almost to Sunbury in five to six hours. There was loss of life and many houses, stock and properties destroyed.
Gisborne was completely ringed by fire. The old hospital in Morrow Road was lost. Houses in Fisher Street, Stephen Street, Goode Street and Aitken Street were burnt. The now IGA car park was on fire. The hedges at the primary school and cemetery were burning. Fire in every direction and virtually no equipment.
The Argus reported that 19 Victorians died in several bush fires that day including Miss Bertha Wollett, 52, of the Couangalt Post Office. Over 70 people suffering burns and other injuries had been admitted to hospitals in Hamilton, Skipton, Camperdown, Lismore, Mortlake, Geelong, Ballarat and Kyneton. Miss Wollett died of her burns at the Royal Melbourne Hospital.
Melbourne didn’t escape unscathed either: 63 homes were destroyed in Sandringham, Beaumaris and Black
The first fire truck, an old ex-army Ford (with Alice and Tom Keane sitting on it).
Rock while, in another fire, five houses were burnt down in the Glenroy-Pascoe Vale area.
Peter: I remember our mother telling us that we must stay in the house. I was looking out the back window and I could see a house burning in Goode Street. People were trying to save furniture from it. There were so few houses in Gisborne at that time that I could easily see to Goode Street from our house in Aitken Street.
The 1944 fire as it went through South Gisborne
(EDITED EXCERPTS from a local history published in 2010)
14 January: ...”hot winds tore towards Gisborne igniting fires on several fronts as the winds tossed burning embers well ahead of the main fire. ‘Brucedale’ on Bullengarook Road [then, as now, owned by the Neal family] was one of the first areas to be hit and the homestead was saved only after a strenuous battle.
The fire then swept into Gisborne, destroying houses on the western side of the town. While firefighters were busy trying to defend the township, another front swept from Bullengarook to Gisborne and on to Couangalt.
The fire raced through Humphrey Dixon’s Dumbarton (near the Golf Club), over Melton Road, and swept across Mt Gisborne.
The fire then headed south-east, killing a resident on Benson Road [52-year-old Bertha Wollett] and
destroying the hay that was the livelihood of so many, as well as stock, houses, sheds and machinery. The blaze burned on through Black Hill Road and towards Melbourne, and wiped out John Aitken’s old homestead at Aitken’s Gap.
“The fire swept through ‘Bundaleer’ (on Melton Road) and John Campbell’s ‘Mount Gisborne’, and over Mount Gisborne onto the southern side of the mount, to Richard McCorkell’s (corner Couangalt-Melton roads) and Robertsons (now ‘Moora’, Couangalt Road).
In Councillor Weigall’s ‘Gisborne Park’, on a property on Couangalt Road west of McGeorge Road and on Mr Tweddle’s (Calder Hwy), great damage was
done. The homes of Mrs Lock (on present-day Cabbage Tree Lane), Mr Woollett (Benson Road) and Mr John Thomson (Black Hill Road) were destroyed, as were empty houses belonging to Mr Tweddle and Mr Richard Benson (Benson Road).
Nearer to Gisborne, Fersfield Road suffered severely ... Luckily, although homes around Willowbank Road and (lower) Mount Gisborne Road, Brooking Road, and the Watsons (Gisborne Mains, Calder Hwy) were in the path of the flames, all survived.”
“June (nee Borbidge) Winkelmann recalled the fires coming right up to their house at the Corkscrew on the Calder. Her family lost many sheep. “Dad had to keep shooting them,” she remembered.”
Only a wind change and the help of the army stationed at Bacchus Marsh and Monegetta because it was still the war years eventually helped the situation.
That fire was the catalyst for the founding of the Gisborne Urban Fire Brigade and the fire truck was kept in our shed in Aitken Street. Our Dad, Alex Gardiner, was the first captain of the brigade.
Give the gift of local history this Christmas
Due to popular demand, there has been a fourth round of printing of Eddie and Peter Gardiner’s book, Tales of Old Gisborne. The book is available at the Gisborne newsagency. If you are searching for a Christmas or end of year gift and are struggling with ideas, look no further.
Tales of Old Gisborne is a charming and easy to read collection of the history of Gisborne as told
TALES
scholarship fund for St Brigid’s school, as requested by the Gardiner family. The fund was opened in November with just over $5000. The scholarships will consist of the annual interest earned on the fund. The first will be awarded at the end of next year.
LOCAL HISTORY
Gisborne & Mount Macedon Districts Historical Society
Gisborne Court House 4 Hamilton Street Open Wednesdays 10am to 4pm Phone 5428 1450 e: history@gisbornemountmacedon.org.au
Edited by Robin Godfrey
Reminiscences of early BULLENGAROOK
David George O’Donnell was born at Bullengarook in 1860. He was a member of the Victorian Police Force and was known as an astute detective.
The following edited letter from O’Donnell to The Age newspaper published on 2 July 1938 describes his reminiscences of early Bullengarook.
Very early on, the name of Bullengarook was spelled Bullengorourke. Early in 1837, it was in the hands of F. A. Powlett and W.P. Greene. Henry Matson had it from October 1848 to July 1851, and Robert Barbour from July 1851 to February 1874.
[Frederick Armand] Powlett, JP, was an early Chief Commissioner of Crown Lands and Colonial Treasurer in 1852. Robert Barbour was later in the New South Wales Parliament.
George and Sam Spottiswoode had a farm at Bullengarook in the early 1860s. The Melbourne suburb of Spotswood was named after the Spottiswoodes. They were there before and after they left Bullengarook.
Many of the pioneers of the late 1850s, who obtained 60-acre farms in Bullengarook after it was cut up for sale, were wonderful strugglers and heroic characters, considering all they had to contend against. Four of the first farmers were my own father (Michael O’Donnell), William Gorman, Patrick Barry and Thomas O’Donnell. They had been early warders at Pentridge Prison and the hulks, and had left the penal service after the infamous murder
by convicts at Williamstown of Mr John Price the Inspector-General of Penal Establishments.
Bullengarook was a wild place when the pioneers went on the land, and the numerous farmers who obtained property there had to live in tents and bark huts, with their wives and families, till
seen them ploughing, harrowing, reaping and mowing and doing all their ordinary work, even in hot weather, wearing belltoppers. Later on, they wore cabbage-tree hats.
Although Communists were then unheard of, the Bullengarook farmers always rolled up to help each other. In the early 1860s, there were no reaping machines in Bullengarook. All the crops were cut by hand with reaping sickles. On one occasion that I remember, on a Sunday, the Carroll Brothers had a crop of oats which was rotten ripe, and bush fires raged all around. Every farmer in the place turned up in the early morning, and before sunset the crop was down and stooked. It was the same with everything else ploughing, thrashing or potato digging the farmers helped each other like a band of brothers.
they treated one another with many rounds of ‘shouts’ with much hand-shaking avowals of eternal friendship.
In May of 1863, there was a great Corroboree held opposite the Big Hill store by a local tribe of Aboriginals. I remember it well, and today can point out trees from which I saw them take possums.
they fenced-in their holdings with dogleg log fences, and split slabs to build their farm houses, stables and sheds. Most of the early farmers wore belltopper hats at their ordinary work. I have
In those days, the big forest between the ‘Rook’ (the term of endearment for Bullengarook) and Trentham was full of wild cattle. One particular bull took charge of the forest, and people were afraid to go there. All the farmers of the ‘Rook’ organised themselves with rifles, shot guns, pepper-box revolvers and knives and went out in force to deal with the bull. They did so triumphantly. The bull was no-one’s property. Each of the farmers brought away a portion of the butchered carcass as a trophy. When they arrived at Barry’s store, which was licensed to sell beer, they were so overjoyed to have rid the forest of the bovine,
Those early farmers were great athletes, and most of them reared families of yet more athletes, some becoming famous. They were weightlifters and throwers, high and broad jumpers, axemen and foot runners. One big, good-tempered farmer was John Haire, who was rarely without a smile. On one occasion a swaggie exasperated him. A log-fence stood between them. John aimed a blow at the swaggie, who ducked in time to avoid it. John, as a result of the swaggie’s action, struck the top rail of the fence and dislodged it. Had the swaggie received the blow, he would have long remembered John.
Then there was Ned Moloney, a man of prodigious strength who thought nothing of putting his shoulder under the heel (or end) of a dray to lift it out of a rut, and Johnny Creed, father of big Denny, the weight and sheaf-thrower and axeman who won the day at the Waterloo Flat foot races.
The Bullengarookers of the early days were a splendid sample of Victoria’s pioneers, and the families they founded are a tribute to them. The district today still contains an excellent class of Victorian farmer.”
Harp of Erin Hotel, Bullengarook, circa 1871-1911 (Source State Library of Victoria).
Clockwise from above: dog-leg fence, belltopper hat, and a cabbage tree hat.
From the
DECEMBER 1925
School Notes – Upper Macedon. Three children – Alma and Lorna Scott and Herbert Eynstone – sat for the Victoria League scholarship. The result will probably be published next week. Owing to an epidemic of measles, the attendances last month averaged only 32, thus unfortunately only three were presented for merit and three for the qualifying examinations.
Gisborne. On Sunday last Lord Stonehaven, Governor-General of Australia, at the Port Melbourne Presbyterian Church, unveiled a mural tablet placed there to the memory of the late Staff Sergeant-Major Robert McPherson, by his old comrades of the Victorian Scottish Regiment, in which, for many years, he had been a drill instructor. During the late war, the deceased’s efficiency as a drill instructor was recognized by the military authorities, who refused his offer to serve abroad with the A.I.F. and instead kept him at home to train recruits. Deceased, a Gisborne native, and a popular member of the Old Boys’ Association, was a cousin of Mr. D. McPherson, of Hamilton street.
Gisborne Gazette 4 December 1925
District News – Riddell. The Presbyterian Church has been renovated inside and out by Mr. Frank Clarebrough of Gisborne.
Gisborne. The President of the Gisborne Shire (Cr. D. O’Donnell) has convened a public meeting to be held on December 15th, at the Mechanics Hall, to discuss the ways and means of raising money for the erection of a swimming basin for Gisborne. The Progress Association is assisting financially and the public are to be asked to find part of the money also. The erection of clean, up-to-date swimming facilities close to the town would be a very decided acquisition to the district and it behoves residents to lend the matter their earnest consideration.
Gisborne Gazette 11 December 1925
The first bush fire of the season occurred on Friday last, when a fire started at Wooling near the property of Mr. O’Brien. It spread into the timber property of Mr. James Kilmartin and it was with difficulty a temporary dwelling was saved. It swept southwards into the Campbell Bros. estate but fortunately a large potato cultivation paddock checked its progress and the wind changed to south west and drove the fire on to Mount Robertson, where it burnt all day on Saturday.
Gisborne Gazette 24 December 1925
REGULAR MEETINGS
If your group is missing from this list, please email gisbornegazetteeditor@gmail.com with details.
ADULT RIDING CLUB (Gis) 2nd Saturday Robertson Res, Sth Gis. ADULT RIDING CLUB (Bullengarook) 2nd Saturday Rec Reserve
AMATEUR RADIO CLUB 3rd Saturday 10am Woodend RSL. www.mrarc.org.au
BADMINTON Tues 8.30pm & Thurs 9.30am, Macedon Community Centre, macedonrangesbadminton@ gmail.com or David 0419 589 425
BOTANIC GARDENS working bee first & last Thurs every month 9.30am-11am email infogisbotgard@gmail.com
BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP 1st & 3rd Tues 10.30am, Canteena, Gisborne. Enquiries, call Lesley 0484 691 226 BUSHWALKING CLUB Various locations 0402 088 491 or secretary@gisbornebwc.org.au
CANASTA CLUB Macedon & Mt Macedon Community House Wednesdays 2pm
CAR CLUB (Mac Ranges & District Motor Club 1st Wednesday, 8pm, Steam Park, New Gisb. secretary@mradmc.com.au
SUPPORT AFTER SUICIDE 2nd Mon each month, even if public holiday, 7-8.30pm Newham Mechanics (1292 Rochford Rd)
TABLE TENNIS Wed 7.30pm Tony Clarke Res, Macedon Stan 0437 508 338
THUNDER SWIMMING CLUB 2nd Sat 5pm Gisborne Aquatic Centre Peter 0402 088 491
TOY LIBRARY gisbornetoylibrary@yahoo.com.au Sat. 9.30-11am 71 Robertson St
ULYSSES GROUP 3rd Tues 6pm Sunbur y FC secretary@mrub.org.au
VINTAGE MACHINERY Working bees 1st Sun of month, 8.30am Steam Park; meetings last Friday of month 7pm Steam Park 0419 393 023
WRITERS (Scribes & Scribblers) 2nd Tues 10am-12 Riddell Neighbourhood House 5428 7836 YOUNG VOICES Thursdays 4.15-5.45pm House of the Rock, New Gisborne; yvmacedon.org.au or sdggome@patash.com.au
Dec 3-6 The Last Journey (Swedish: subject to availability) 10-13 Mozart’s Sister 17 5 Flights Up (Last film for the year A tribute to Diane Keaton)
JANUARY
Jan 14-17 Ego The Michael Gudinski Story 21-24 I’m Not Scared (Italian) 28-31 There’s Still Tomorrow
www.baringofilmclub.com
pages of the old Gisborne Gazette
We congratulate our wonderful Year 12 students, the ‘Class of 2025’, on their achievements. We are confident their results and selected pathways will lead the way to rewarding futures.
