Gisborne Gazette May 2026

Picture: Chris Fleming

HOME PAGE

From the Editor's desk

April brought many reasons to come together in our special part of the world. Easter, school holidays, the Good Friday Appeal, the Autumn Festival and Anzac Day meant our towns have been busy with various events and locals connecting with the community.

The annual Rotary Easter Hunt was postponed due to inclement weather but brought much joy to young and old alike when rescheduled to Easter Saturday. (See page 4).

Autumn takes the spotlight for many of our contributors this month such as The Gallery’s Art Prize and exhibition as part of the Autumn Festival (page 17); the pull to declutter and prepare for winter in Mum Life Sorted (page 15); and Gisborne Town Team’s interactive Chalk Walk event involving colouring in an Autumn design by Chris Roy Taylor (page 5) which also coincided with the school holidays.

The community also showed camaraderie this month. The CFA was supported by local scout groups and businesses in raising a tremendous amount, over $11,000, for the Good Friday Appeal this year. (See page 3).

Anzac Day’s Dawn Service and the service in Gisborne gathered impressive crowds and were blessed with the best of autumn weather as we took the time to honour those who serve and have served for us.

And how could we forget our front page news? A most anticipated event was the opening of our beloved Gisborne Golf Club’s new building after being impacted by a devastating fire two years ago.

We can head into the cooler months knowing we are surrounded by people who are warm, welcoming and supportive.

Winter sports have started back up again too. Check out all our sports pages (pages 34-37), as our locals literally jump back into netball, football and futsal.

Many thanks to Bryan for editing the April edition and as always thank you to everyone who contributes to our community newspaper.

Enjoy the last of the sunshine before the puffer jackets are pulled out of the closets.

Katrina

Buttigieg

MINUTE WITH MAXINE

Susan Young has been delivering the Gazette to letterboxes in Mount Macedon for five years.

Susan was born in Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, in England. She had a love of horses growing up and that continued for many years.

She travelled to Australia in 1984-1985 on a one-year working visa as she thought it would help her ‘grow up’. She stayed with Geoff and Christine Young in Gisborne and during the 12 months she worked for two months for the Lord Mayor of Sydney, and saw many areas of Australia before she headed home.

Gisborne Gazette PO Box 9, Gisborne 3437 www.gisbornegazette.org.au

Circulation 8000

Gazette Team

Editor: Katrina Buttigieg gisbornegazetteeditor@gmail.com 0401 874 441

Production Pip Butler 0439 816 278 pbutlerhistory@gmail.com

Photographer Chris Fleming 0417 322 944

Distribution Manager

and committee members:

Bryan Power

Patsy Smith

Dorothy Murray

Deb Fleming

Maxine Barker 0438 711 138 maxineandpeter@bigpond.com

Advertising Maxine Barker 0438 711 138 gisbornegazetteadvertising@gmail.com

Social media Jenny Shipp

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.

In 1990, she emigrated, as there were plans to put a six-lane highway through the quiet, picturesque village where she lived. Mount Macedon was the ideal place to live as it had a lot of similarities with her village back in the UK.

Within six weeks, she was the Principal’s PA and College Registrar at the Sacred Heart College in Kyneton and remained there for 24 years.

Susan enjoys gardening and walking.

For her escape from the winter weather, Palm Cove is her destination of choice.

Gisborne Gazette Community Newspaper Inc. ABN 727 412 060 17

Maxine Barker

Susan Young enjoys the view at Hanging Rock.

Mark Carter and Sandra Barrotta (Gisborne CFA), Deputy Chief Officer Alen Slijepcevic, and Dale Anderson (Donald CFA) proudly represented the CFA at the televised Appeal, presenting the final cheque for $2,150,000 at the end of the night.

Gisborne Fire Brigade raises $11,000 in Good Friday Appeal

The Gisborne Fire Brigade proudly continued its longstanding tradition of supporting the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal, a tradition the brigade has been part of for 70 years. With the support of the Bullengarook Fire Brigade, 1st Gisborne and 1st New Gisborne scout groups, and the community, this year’s effort raised an impressive $11,595.25.

The brigade extends warm thanks to Gisborne Fish Shop for generously providing lunch to volunteers, and to the Corner Café, which donated $1 from every coffee sold throughout Good Friday.

A highlight of the event was the arrival of an original T-Model Ford fire truck, brought by Donald CFA. The historic vehicle first took part in the Good Friday Appeal in 1971, and the Donald brigade itself has supported the Appeal for an extraordinary 75 years.

The Gisborne Fire Brigade thanked the local community for its overwhelming generosity.

“Every single dollar makes a difference,” the brigade said. “We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who contributed. Your support helps the Royal Children’s Hospital continue its vital work for families across Victoria.”

Ian Ward

Gisborne CFA community fire safety officer

Out of the ashes...

New clubrooms

now open

The clubhouse at a golf course is referred to as the 19th hole. It is the heart and soul of a golf club where players and friends come together at the end of a round to relax, unwind and share stories of their game. The 19th is where friendships and memories are formed for life.

On 18 April, two years after the devastating fire that destroyed Gisborne’s '19th hole', the new building is up, looking good, and has been officially opened.

In front of a large group, President Alastair Boustead, who has worked tirelessly to bring the new clubhouse to life, was given the honour of hitting the first ball from the spectacular opening archway as a symbolic gesture to declare the clubhouse open.

“I’m excited by the opening, but I am also relieved. There has been a lot of work gone into by a lot of people to make this happen, and hopefully everyone gets to enjoy it,” said Alastair.

Members’ faces lit up as they embraced the new facility, relaxing in the Gisborne Bar & Bistro, breathing in the future. They were served by the new hospitality managers, local boutique caterers Harvest & Soul, known for their beautifully crafted food and dedication to seasonal, local produce.

By the time this article goes to print, the Gisborne Bar & Bistro will be fully open for dining. The venue will also be open for functions and business seminars, with separate function rooms to cater for regional business and social needs.

The new facility also has offices and meeting rooms for staff, along with an open, beautifully designed Pro Shop fitted out with golfing equipment and clothing for sale.

“It has been a very tough two years for our staff working out of the temporary makeshift office and Pro Shop," said manager Brett Campbell.

"But this makes moving into the new clubhouse even more special.

“Gisborne is such a fantastic place, and now the whole town has just gone up a notch with access to a stunning, functional facility that will once again become a destination hub.

“So please come down to the club, player or not; sit on the verandah or in cosy lounge area near the fire, with magnificent views to the Macedon Ranges, close your eyes, breathe deeply and listen to your mind say, ‘How good is this?' ” Dom Hogan

President Alastair Boustead hits the first ball from the 19th hole to open the Gisborne clubhouse.

Free Family Fun Day in Gisborne

The Gisborne Vintage Machinery Society Rally and Family Fun Day is on 17 May.

It promises to be a great day to see old vintage steam and agricultural machinery plus mini train rides to ride on and a great indoor miniature train layout.

There will be food available as you enjoy your stroll around the park and surroundings. Classic cars and other displays will be on site. We are expecting that the SES and CFA will be in attendance as usual, but the display is subject to operational requirements. Due to the fuel issue the ever-popular Tractor Pull has unfortunately had to be cancelled.

But here is the good news! Acknowledging the rising

A week late, but worth the wait

cost of living issues and recent fuel prices, the entire event admission is now free!

As a club, we still want to showcase our efforts, as a great day out for the family and friends. We are a small but very proud club located in New Gisborne.

We acknowledge that some of our regular attractions that were previously committed to this year’s event may have to cancel due to cost issues. Please come and support our Family Day activities and supporters.

Come for a Sunday walk with family and friends on 17 May at the Steam Park in New Gisborne.

Tim Reid

Gisborne Vintage Machinery Society

After a cold, bleak and rainy start forced the cancellation of this year’s community Easter Egg Hunt at Jackson’s Creek Reserve on 28 March, we refused to let the weather dampen spirits. Instead, the event was swiftly rescheduled to the following Saturday  and what a difference a week made.

In near-perfect sunshine, around 450 children turned up, ready for a morning of classic Easter fun. Screams of delight and laughter echoed across the field as kids took part in old-fashioned egg and spoon races, searched for hidden eggs and lined up for photos with the everpopular Easter Bunny.

This year’s hunt was the biggest yet, with more children than ever before  and thankfully, more eggs to match. There was plenty to go around, with the aim of every young participant going home smiling.

The event was proudly run by dedicated volunteers from the Gisborne Rotary Club, continuing their commitment to supporting the local community. Their efforts were boosted by the generous participation of the SES, CFA, police, Venturer Scouts, local residents and numerous sponsor businesses.

● Specsavers will be moving into the large empty shop opposite IGA in the Gisborne Vil-

● A new medical centre with and ambulance bay will be going in where Kennedy & Hunt Real Estate used to be in Brantome Street.

● Macedon Ranges Shire Council was surprised when Parks VIctoria acted in mid-April to remove trees including snow gums on Mt Macedon prior to Anzac Day. The council had refused an application for this work in 2023. (The work had been requested to reinstate viewlines to and from Mt Macedon Memorial Cross). The matter was abandoned at the time, but Parks Victoria subsequently applied to the Minister for Planning, Sonia Kilkenny, seeking approval for the forest clearing as a project of state significance-bypassing the need for council consultation-and ministerial approval was given.

One councillor's view – Councillor's Column ►see page 26

Barry Wills

For those inspired to get involved in community service, visit www.rotary.org or email gisbornerotary@ gmail.com.

We are here to provide temporary food assistance for those in need

Open on Wednesday and Friday 10am to 3pm

Enter via Heritage Way at the back of the Gisborne Uniting Church Enquiries: 0492 850 520 Email: gisborneccf@gmail.com

Egg and spoon races were a highlight at this year’s Easter Egg Hunt.

Some of the many contributors to the success of the latest Good Friday Appeal in Gisborne gather at CFA headquarters.

lage Shopping Centre.

A splash of autumn colour

Gisborne Walk, the laneway between 3 Little Pigs and Kaffeine Bar, was buzzing with activity on 15 April as children and adults alike came to colour in designs by local artist Chris Roy Taylor on six huge blackboard canvases.

The aforementioned cafes provided vouchers for milkshakes, and Fairy Meadow from Myths & Legends (aka ‘The Fairy Shop’) shared sparkle and more colour with free face painting as the designs were filled in by enthusiastic helpers.

The result was a vibrant gallery of colour created by the community which remained on display for the rest of April.

This event was organised by Gisborne Town Team, a small group of ‘doers’ who are on a mission to enliven the town centre, and supported by a number of local community groups, businesses and organisations.

If you are interested in joining Gisborne Town Team please contact them via their Facebook or Instagram page.

Macedon in 'Puka Cup' win

Mental health initiative now a traditional annual clash

Kudos to Macedon Football Netball Club, who won the Puka Up Cup this year. The Cup is an annual Riddell District Football Netball League event played between Macedon Football Netball Club (Cats) and the Riddell Football Netball Club.

Established in 2018, the series promotes mental health awareness following the loss of young players

Cheery winners on 25 April.

from both clubs.

Puka Up is a social enterprise and mental health initiative founded by former AFL player Wayne Schwass, the name taken from the Hindi word "pukka" meaning authentic, genuine, or solid.

This year's winning match was held on Anzac Day at Tony Clarke Reserve, Macedon.

Mia and Zimi have fun colouring in.

Gisborne RSL welcomes new president

The Gisborne RSL Sub-Branch recently held its annual general meeting and election of office bearers for 2026. Over the past 12 months the membership has grown and the branch continues to focus on the welfare and support of veterans and families.

We congratulate Norman Smith on his appointment as President of the branch. Captain Smith served more than 30 years in the British Army’s Corps of Engineers.

A big thank you to those people who supported the annual Anzac Day service in Gisborne. There was another great attendance that included many young leaders from local schools and colleges. We thank those who participated in the conduct of the service and others who provided direct help and support.

This year commemorates the 125th anniversary of the beginning of the Australian Army, the Royal Australian Navy and the 25th anniversary of Australian service in Timor-Leste.

Our annual Anzac Appeal was again most successful. Sincere thanks to the Gisborne and district community who again so generously supported our badge sales. Funds raised are used to provide welfare support to both veterans and their families in times of need or crisis.

We are always proud to welcome new members, current and former service personnel (ADF and Allies), their families and those that support RSL.

Please contact our secretary via email at admin@ gisbornersl.com.au or by phone on 0487 278 681.

Darren Grevis-James, immediate past president

ANZAC DAY

Dawn Service Mt Macedon

Gisborne service

Darren Grevis-James congratulates new President Norman Smith.

Left: A good crowd attended the service.

Below: Some of those who laid wreaths.

The fly past

Movement at sports precinct

The second stage of the Regional Sports Precinct is underway and will include three multiuse indoor courts, four gender-neutral change rooms, additional car parking, a drop-off zone, and extra offices and amenities on the western sports hub site.

On the eastern sports field site, a second turf oval will be constructed, along with two outdoor netball courts and additional car parking.

Working together for community

The local volunteer Board behind Community Bank Gisborne & District recently met to map out a strategy for their community giving over the next three years.

Macedon Ranges Community Enterprises Ltd is focused on making decisions that deliver real impact in the community — now and into the future. To find out more, visit mrce.com.au

Gemma Gamble

Macedon Ranges Community Enterprises Ltd

Classic cars, country roads, and a whiff of gourmet food

Get ready to pull your classic car out of the garage, or polish up your admiring glances, because the 2026 Macedon Ranges Grand Tour is coming.

Classic cars are appreciated by people of all ages. That smell of leather, rubber and oil. Beautifully de-

signed coachwork adorned with chrome grills and bumpers. The roar of the exhaust when the engine revs rise. These are unmistakable sensations that for some evoke memories of years gone by, or in others ignite new passions.

On Saturday 3 October, the Macedon Ranges Grand Tour returns to give the community a good look at an assortment of buffed up classic cars, and to promote the area as a tourist destination and gourmet food trail.

The Tour attracts participants from within and outside the shire. The Tour is open to all makes and models of cars with the emphasis on classics, from family sedans to exotic sports cars, provided they were manufactured in or prior to 2000.

The starting flag will fall in Gisborne at 9am. While the final route remains a mystery until the start, the participants will take in the scenery along the great touring

roads in the shire and indulge in fine foods at the organised tea and lunch stops.

Saturday’s activities round off at Glen Erin vineyard at Lancefield with a three-course dinner.

Accommodation is available at Glen Erin for anyone who wishes to stay the night. On Sunday 4 October, to coincide with Gisborne Market Day, the Grand Tour vehicles will be on display in John Aitken Reserve. This is always a popular presentation for local car enthusiasts.

Join in or spread the word among your car-loving friends. Entries are now open.

To book a place on the Grand Tour. log onto the website, www.macedonrangesgrandtour.com.au. Be quick, because places are already filling up.

Email macedon.grandtour@gmail.com

Miles Nelson Organising Committee

L-R: Rachel Kemmis, Jennifer Smith, Sina Smale, Jo-ann Irwin, Dominic Andreacchio, Mal Carter, David Gormley-O’Brien, Liz O’Connell and Andrew Kincaid. Absent: David Thomas.

One of the jaunty jalopies seen in a previous tour.

Sports hub progress at New Gisborne.

MEMBER’S MESSAGE

Dear Gisborne community, I recently made the difficult decision that after three terms as the Member for Macedon I will not be recontesting the state election this year. Representing our community has been an incredible privilege. It’s been an extraordinary experience to work with and meet with so many people from all walks of life. While I have stepped down from my ministerial roles, I’ll continue working hard for you every day until the election.

In other news, Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme continues to deliver strong results across the Macedon Ranges Shire, with more than 10 million drink containers returned, putting over $1 million back into the pockets of the community.

My office provides free, reusable waterproof bags to help you collect and store bottles and cans, for return at the collection point in the Gisborne Village Shopping Centre car park.

To help ease cost-of-living pressures, anti–price gouging laws are now in effect. Fuel retailers must set their prices a day in advance and publish them on Servo Saver, available through the Service Victoria app. Prices cannot be increased during that 24-hour period and the app also allows you to report incorrect pricing.

From 1 October, Victorians will also be able to access three hours of free power in the middle of the day, every day of the week as part of the government’s 'Midday Power Saver' offer.

As always, I’m here to help on any State Government matter. Email mary-anne.thomas@parliament.vic.gov.au, call 5428 2138, or visit my electorate office team at Shop 14 Nexus Centre, Goode Street, Gisborne.

Celebrating a volunteer

On 10 February, Graeme marked his 100th birthday at Nexia Aged Care (formerly Warrina). Graeme, a WWII veteran, was surrounded by the love of his daughters, his devoted wife Mavis, caring staff and a room of residents he calls friends. With music from Graeme’s favourite musician, Bernard, there was not a foot tapping off beat.

Graeme was a cherished member of Council’s Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS), proving that even at 100, he still has plenty of wisdom and friendship to share with those around him.

We were saddened to hear that Graeme recently passed away. With the kind permission of his family, we are honoured to share this tribute and celebrate his remarkable life, legacy and contribution to the community. You can view Graeme’s full story mrsc.vic.gov.au/ ACVVS, and learn more about the aged care volunteer program for volunteers and recipients.

Soft plastics recycling

During a 'Meet the Mayor' spot on ABC radio in April, the mayor was called by a resident who spoke about the soft plastics recycling scheme.

A surge in people dropping in to the council offices to pick up their free orange bags followed. A helpful list is included of what can and can't go in.

The filled bags go in the yellow-lid recycling bin. Recycling soft plastics is a small thing residents can do for the planet, but it's something that can be done in a world where so much is out of our control.

Keeping glass OUT of recycle bin

Recently, a little more glass has been finding its way into the yellow-lid recycling bin.

Keeping glass separate is important because when it goes into the wrong bin, it can break and contaminate paper, cardboard and plastics reducing their quality and making them hard to recycle. Glass is a valuable and sustainable resource that can be recycled an infinite number of times without any loss in its quality, creating an ongoing loop of new products. How to get involved:

• Keep glass out of the recycle bin.

• Put glass recycling in the bin loose, not in bags.

• Glass bottles and jars must be empty and should be lightly rinsed.

• Remove lids from all jars and bottles.

• No need to remove labels from bottles and jars.

• Drinking glasses, mirrors, window glass and ceramics go in the general waste bin.

Native pollinators: the buzz about bees

Australia has more than 2000 types of native bees. Most don’t sting, and many are excellent pollinators.

Join Clancy “Bee-Man” Lester to learn why native bees and other pollinators are so important for our gardens and local environment. They help plants grow, support wildlife, and keep ecosystems healthy

This is a great session for anyone interested in gardening or looking after their local environment. Tuesday 19 May from 6-7pm at Gisborne Mechanics Institute. Register now at mrsc.vic.gov.au/environment-events

IDAHOBIT program

Council, in partnership with Omnia Community Health, Goldfields Libraries, and Kyneton Community Health, is celebrating International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexphobia, and Transphobia with a series of events across the Macedon Ranges.

To find out more and to register, visit mrsc.vic.gov. au/IDAHOBIT

With Mary-Anne Thomas, MP

of the Community House at Macedon.

Community House news

Term 2 Gardening at Macedon and Mount Macedon Community House is about to begin, and the House would love to welcome some new volunteers to join us.

Held every Friday from 9.30am to 11am, it’s a wonderful way to connect with others while getting your hands in the soil - topped off with a well-earned morning tea afterwards. The space features a thriving permaculture garden alongside traditional garden beds, offering something for all interests and experience levels.

April was a busy and vibrant month at the House. Highlights included involvement in the Change Makers Macedon Ranges Festival through a composting workshop and foraging for edible weeds, a colourful leaf mobile-making session for children, a sausage sizzle at the Viewfield Open Garden, and a hands-on sauerkraut workshop led by one of the House's valued volunteers.

We’re always excited to welcome new volunteers and encourage more local people to get involved. Regular programs

Playgroup - Mondays 10am-noon; Craft Circle  - Thurs 10am-12 noon; Friday Gardening Crew  - Fri 9.30-11am; Community Library  - Fri 10am-noon; Warhammer Club  - every second Sun 3pm-6pm; Macedon Produce Swap  - first and third Sat of every month 9.30-10.30am; Gentle Yoga - Wed 6.30-7.30pm.

More information about programs is available at www.mmmcommunityhouse.org or please contact Megan at admin@mmmcommunityhouse.org .

BATHROOMS

WE NEED YOU! Lions seeks new members

Gisborne & District Lions Club is on the lookout for new members.

The club is seeking service-minded people to join us in making a difference in the community.

If you have ever felt the urge to give back, to aid those in need of a helping hand, Gis borne Lions can give you that opportunity.

“Our club inspires members to advance worthy causes, serve with friends, and become leaders in the community,” said club president Russell Walker OAM. “While the club means a lot to our Lions, it means so much more to those in need who ultimately benefit from our support.”

From organising the annual Gisborne Festival and aiding local families and students in need with special grants, to supporting drought-stricken farmers and providing $42,000 to victims of the recent Harcourt and Ravenswood bushfires, the Gisborne club is on the front lines of community service.

It is important to note that 100 percent of funds donated by the public to Gisborne Lions through fundraising are directed to the project for which they are intended.

While the local community is our major focus, via Lions International and its 1.4 million other members, Gisborne Lions also supports five global causes – vision impairment, hunger, the environment, childhood cancer and diabetes.

And it’s not just about helping others – 92 percent of Lions members report enjoying the fellowship and social opportunities, forming strong friendships and a sense of belonging. Why not come along to our monthly meeting (7pm on the first Thursday of the month at the House of the Rock Church, 247 Station Road, New Gisborne) to learn more of what the Lions Club is about?

With the Autumn Festival in full swing in April, the many visitors to town have brought welcome support for local businesses given the current fuel crisis.

Fire restrictions ceased on 7 April. Please be mindful of lithium battery fires and ensure wood combustion heaters are cleaned out in preparation for winter.

Macedon Ranges Bowling Club is busy finalising intraclub competitions before the presentations to be held soon. The Club Champions for the '25-26 pennant season are (ladies) Gayle Hobbs, who has won this award 12 times, and (men's) Ian Matthews for a second time. Congratulations to both.

The pennant season and barefoot bowls will start again in October. New members are welcome. Contact Helen Kennedy via email treasurermacedonbowls@gmail.com.

On the footy and netball front, the Cats got off to a positive start to the season on the field and the courts with home matches on Good Friday against the Gisborne Giants.

Congratulations to Toby Sims on 100 games.

A reminder that the Produce Swap is out the front of the Post Office 9.30am to 10.30am on the second and fourth Saturday of each month.

Rainfall in Victoria Street for the period 11 March to 18 April was 112mm. So far the total rainfall in 2026 is about 100mm more than the same time last year.

Have a great month.

Anne

Tony Fawcett

Even if you don’t have the time to become a full member, the club is always eager to welcome volunteers who can donate a few hours to help at special events such as the Lions Gisborne Festival.

For more information on Gisborne Lions Club, contact the president, Russell Walker OAM, on 0419 318 615 or email secretary@gisbornedistrict.lions. gisnet.net.au.

Garden

St Paul’s Anglican Op Shop Jottings

Avan has worked at the Gisborne Anglican Op Shop for more than five years.

She returned home after spending a few years in a regional city where she had volunteered at an op shop that benefited the families of cancer patients. Talking to her neighbour one day, she mentioned how she had enjoyed her op shop experience, never having been in one before. The neighbour’s father was instrumental in setting up the Anglican Op Shop, and soon after, he dropped by to ask if she’d like to put her op shop experience to good use locally.

Avan began working a couple of days a month behind the counter, and now she works two mornings a week. It is an interesting experience, connecting after many years with locals whom she had met as their children went to school, pony club, or played cricket, tennis or footy together. It seems that, sooner or later, everyone drops into St Paul’s Op Shop. While Avan doesn’t always remember names, as they chat they find experiences they have in common.

Op Shop income goes to local, national and international causes the Anglican Church of Gisborne supports, including the Gisborne Foodbank. The Op Shop is dedicated to recycling donations rather than consigning them to landfill.

Electrical items, which we are not permitted to resell, and which we ask donors not to donate, go to an Op Shop in Melton that resells them after being checked by a licensed electrician.

We always have gently used local school uniforms, and are delighted to see them go to local kids whose families are struggling to make ends meet. Drop in, check out our stock, and say “Hello” to our friendly and helpful staff like Avan.

Jan Volkman Harris, volunteer

Easter frolics invade the market

The Gisborne Olde Time Market celebrated the Easter festivities in April and had little rabbit tracks leading to little bunny bottoms in the ground. The children loved following the tracks and seeing the bunnies. We also had cheery 'Easter bunnies' handing out Easter eggs to children and adults.

The weather was beautiful and there was a large crowd enjoying all that Gisborne and surrounds have to offer.

We are always looking for volunteers so if you would like to assist at the market or in any other way, please let us know; all money raised goes towards the community and I am sure that many people have benefited without realising where the funds originated.

The next market is Sunday 3 May from 9 am to 2pm. Karan Grieve President, The GREAT Association greatgisborne@gmail.com

Celebrate Neighbourhood House Week at Further Education Centre

Neighbourhood House Week is just around the corner, running from 11 to 17 May.

This year’s theme, 'Your Place to Connect', reflects what the centre is all about - providing a welcoming and inclusive space where people of all ages and backgrounds can come together to learn, connect, and support one another.

On Thursday 14 May, we’ll be joining Neighbourhood Houses across Victoria to achieve the World’s Largest Community-Led Lunch, so at 12.30pm we will be hosting a free community lunch. RSVPs are strongly encouraged for catering purposes. These can be made in person, by calling us on 5428 3799 or by booking online at www.mrfec.net.au .

While Term 2 is already underway, it is not too late to join a course. We are offering free come and try passes for newcomers to a health and wellness course of their choice – any of Line Dancing, MADBODS, Mums and

Water is essential for life in our region. Let’s look after it together.

Drying conditions are placing pressure on our local storages.

Bubs Yoga, Chair Yoga, Mindfulness Meditation and Latin Dance.

We also have a Work Ready Office Skills course starting on Wednesday 21 May (from 9.30am to 3pm), as well as Social Media Marketing (in partnership with KGMG Creative) starting on Monday 25 May (from 6pm to 8pm). Both courses are running across four sessions. Unsure what you would like to enrol in? The centre also has a fantastic range of workshops on offer designed for people to dip their toes into a variety of different fields. Join us for Mother’s Day Floristry, Silk Scarf Painting, ‘Spice and Soul: Cooking and Connecting’ workshops.

QR Code for MRFEC website

For more information, call us on 5428 3799, pop in to say hello at 12 Hamilton Street or hop on to our website to enrol at www.mrfec.net.au.

We look forward to seeing you soon.

Permanent Water Saving Rules are always in place to help us all use water wisely. Every small action you take to save water can make a big difference to your community.

Follow these tips to help protect our precious water supply:

Stick to a 4-minute shower. Turn the tap off when brushing teeth.

Install a water-efficient showerhead. If you have a leaking tap, replace the washer. Visit our website for more information gww.com.au/saving-water

Avan

GREAT 'Easter bunnies' at the April market.

Youth and maturity in a win-win

Each year, aside from making it to yet another birthday (always a relief at our ages!), we look forward to welcoming our new batch of Young Shedmen from Gisborne Secondary College (they are the better-looking ones in protective aprons in the picture).

While they’re with us, these young men work on their own projects and also assist us with some of our activities supporting the community.

Along the way we expect they will each develop improved safety awareness, pick up some trade skills,

see how effective teamwork is useful in more areas than just sport, and learn the importance of good communication.

In return, we get to understand a bit about the perspectives of people two generations younger than us. It’s a valuable win-win.

Our Young Shedmen activity is now in its 10th year and at the recent Australian Men’s Shed Association national conference in Brisbane, quite a few Sheds from around the country were interested to hear how our program operates.

Gisborne Genealogical Group

Gisborne Genealogical Group held its AGM in March, with Heather Tumber remaining as president. Lorna Jackson retired as treasurer, a job she has done most efficiently for many years.

Certificates of Appreciation were awarded to Mary Ritchie (25 years) and to Heather Tumber (35 years). Both have contributed much to the Gisborne Genealogical Group over a long period of time.

Dr Frances Thiele was awarded the Member of the Year. She has served as a committee member and minute secretary, as a speaker at general meetings, and has led several workshops. Congratulations Fran!

The next general meeting will be held on Thursday 28 May at 7.30pm in the Gisborne Library. The topic is 'Cornish Married Widows' – the wives who were ‘left behind’ by emigration. It is an interesting subject whether you have Cornish ancestry or not, and it is not often that we can find a lot of information regarding our female ancestors. Anyone interested is most welcome to attend. Stay for supper and have a chat.

The Family History Room is temporarily closed. Our Saturday Workshops and the DNA Group (DIG) will resume when the refurbishment is completed.

Gisborne Genealogical Group volunteers are on duty in the Library on Thursdays 1pm to 3pm, so come along if you need help with your research. For more information about the group and our activities, check our website at www.ggg.org.au.

Lyn Hall

From left: Zane, Mal, Liam and Jacob (absent on photo day, Blake).

Mary Ritchie (left) receives her Certificate of Appreciation from vice-president Doreen Green.

Changing from gas to electric –HELP!

Do you want to change your gas appliances for electric ones? Not sure where to start?

Knowledgeable volunteers from Electrify Macedon Ranges (EMR) are here to help you. EMR is an action group of the Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group.

EMR members are offering free one-on-one planning consultations to locals so you can make the best decisions for your household.

You will receive a user-friendly planning booklet, created by locals for locals, to guide you.

With an Electrify Macedon Ranges volunteer at your kitchen table, you will work through the easy steps in the booklet, extract the data you need from your energy bills, understand your household’s energy use, and identify the best options for your household.

You will together address the following questions, one-on-one, at your place in your situation:

● Which of your appliances makes most sense to change first?

● If you already have solar panels, what size battery makes the most sense?

● How to confidently choose trustworthy installers.

● How to make the most of the state and federal government rebates available.

● How to find the best electricity retailer for your household.

Residents who have gas pay more than $365 a year connection/supply fee before any actual gas usage is added; this is because the current daily gas connection charge in Victoria (averaged over 16 retailers) is more than a dollar a day.

To arrange a free consultation, simply contact EMR@mrsg.org.au to provide your address and phone number. A local volunteer will contact you to arrange a suitable time for an EMR consultant to visit.

Gisborne library is excited to be hosting Victoria Purman on Tuesday 12 May, from 11am to 12 noon, talking about her new book, The Marriage Trap

Victoria writes captivating historical fiction. The Marriage Trap, set in the 1960s, highlights the social impact of the pill, rebellion and new ideas on ordinary Australian women as, along with shorter skirts and the Beatles, they embrace freedom!

Book online via the Goldfields Libraries website or phone 5428 3962 to reserve a seat.

Spydus has a new app Spydus Library. If you use our app you will need to download the new one, as the old app will no longer be fully functional.

Local reader Cheryl would like to recommend author Tim Sullivan with the DS George Cross crime fiction series. This detective-sergeant has unique talents, and the atmosphere of Bristol is noticeable. Perfect for fans of Ann Cleeves and Elly Griffiths. Gisborne Library has this series on the shelves.

Have you ever wanted to learn crochet? A clever group of crocheters meet the first Monday each month from 2pm to 3pm. They love teaching newbies.

To keep up to date with the Gisborne Library renovations, join the Macedon Ranges Libraries socials. There may be days the library is closed: The social media pages will keep you informed, so please check for regular updates.

Georgina Smith

Youth action to fight elder abuse

The Federal Government has released a 10-year National Plan to End the Abuse and Mistreatment of Older People, in time for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on 15 June. The plan brings leadership and direction for councils and communities to work together for change.

The 'Kindness to Elders' (K2E) initiative was born in Gisborne to raise awareness of elder abuse to create this change. Its alignment with youth over the past two years has given hope that a young generation will make a difference. The National Plan also recognises the importance of intergenerational work in bringing about a 'whole of community response’.

Gisborne and surrounding Scout and Guide groups support K2E, as does the Young Voices of Macedon choir. Last month, during Global Intergenerational Week, K2E launched its ‘Beyond Age’ youth program. The pilot will see school students, along with Scouts, Guides and choir, collaborate with residents from aged care homes to build meaningful relations.

On 15 June, 3 Little Pigs café in Gisbone, will become an information hub for cuppas and chats. You will find resources on hand and a special guest or two for customer table chats.

More information will appear in June's Gazette

Find us on Facebook as 'Kindness to Elders'.

Some of those who took part in WEAAD last year.

Bushwalkers stay active in autumn

The Bushwalkers' sunset walk at the end of March was only for the brave and hardy; they battled the elements on a blustery evening in Gisborne. Against raging wind and rain, walkers made their way to Wallaby Run to a height overlooking the darkling basin that is the Gisborne township. We were rewarded for our effort as the clouds parted and a glorious golden sunset turning opalescent.

Walkers were much luckier with wonderful sunshine for the first pet-friendly walk through bushfire-ravaged areas around Bullengarook, where the bush is rejuvenating at a great rate and looking lush against the scorched background. One of our canine friends did take a bit of a detour from the group but eventually rejoined for a fabulous day’s hike.

On a great autumnal day, a group of walkers undertook the Byers Back Trail starting at O’Brien’s Crossing. This historic route follows a water race used in the Gold Rush. With lots of mine shafts and tunnels carved out of solid rock, the gold miners’ efforts have to be admired. The landscape was dry but with lots of banksias and wonderful bush to enjoy.

The group has something for everyone so if you would like to give bushwalking a try you can join as a casual participant for $5 (insurance coverage) and see if

Hello from the

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. The website is www.gisbornebwc.org.

Keep active and stay safe.

Ramblers

It seems that every month as I write this, the world situation deteriorates (some would say just like the content of this column!) - but for now it’s fuel supply which seems to be the dominant concern.

With this in mind, the Ramblers have restricted walks to the local area. Fortunately, where we live, there are no shortage of options.

If you feel up to trying a local walk, Govans Lane is an easy ‘there and back’ type walk. That is, you return the same way, so there is no chance of getting lost. There are some picturesque views along the way.

Deborrah

Great fishing goals

Life is all about setting goals and working towards them. My goal was to catch a fish that symbolises the Australian landscape, the mighty Murray cod, the apex predator of the Murray-Darling basin. And to spice up the challenge I was going to catch it fly fishing. Inspired by club legend and Calder Fly Fishing Association founder Ben Le Vagueresse (@ozzynativeflies), I spent a day learning the craft.

Ominously, Ben had described how challenging a fish they were to catch, “…they’re a fish of a thousand casts,” “Fish the structure,” “Stay focused,” and, most importantly, “Be efficient and make every cast count.”

Well, after 12 trips to north-east Victoria, what felt like 3000-plus casts, I caught my first cod when it smashed a surface frog fly, with another two fish for the day. I was ecstatic. Persistence and determination had paid off in the end.

I joined the Calder Fly Fishing club two years ago. It’s a fantastic community-centric club with a friendly and welcoming culture, and so many great people who are willing to share their knowledge and provide encouragement.

I have detailed the walk which is published separately [see page 15]. No special hiking gear is required.

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.

Charles (gisramblers@gmail.com)

Ramblers Walk description, see ►page 15

Luke Beckhurst

Torrential weather rewards walkers with a glorious sunset.

Congrats to Luke Beckhurst, who achieved his goal.

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Dental Talk Dental Talk with

Dr Jacob Chan

Keeping smiles safe this football season

With the roar of the crowd back in the air and the smell of freshly cut grass, sports season is officially in full swing. While we love seeing the community active, the “clash of the titans” on the field often leads to a few unintended clashes in the dental clinic.

Recently, I saw a young player who had a tumble during a match. His tooth had been pushed upwards and felt loose, and there was some minor bleeding and torn gum tissue. Luckily, his parents were prudent and brought him in immediately. While he didn’t require major intervention, his case serves as a perfect reminder: in dental trauma, what you do in the first hour—and how you monitor the injury later—makes all the difference.

Extrusion: Tooth looks longer; it has been pulled partly out - Urgent. Dentist may need to reposition and splint it.

Lateral luxation: Tooth is pushed sideways (forward or back) - Urgent. Requires professional repositioning. In the long term, high risk of nerve 'dying'.

Intrusion: Tooth is pushed up into the gum/boneDo not pull it. See a dentist immediately.

Avulsion: The tooth is knocked completely out.Emergency. There is a 60-minute 'golden' window: Replanting the tooth within an hour gives it the highest chance of reattaching to the bone.

The First Aid essentials

Quick guide to dental injuries

When a “dental incident” happens on the field, it usually falls into one of these categories. Here is how to spot them and what to do in the short term.

Concussion: Tooth is bumped but hasn't moved or loosened - Monitor for pain. Soft diet for a few days.

Subluxation: Tooth is loose but still in its original position - Gentle cleaning. See a dentist to check for fractures.

If your child takes a hit to the mouth, follow these steps to manage the wound and prevent infection: Stop the bleed: Apply firm, five to10 minutes. Clean the area: Gently rinse the mouth with water or an antiseptic mouthwash to clear debris. Soft diet: Stick to “no-chew” foods (smoothies, pasta, yoghurt) for at least a week to allow the ligaments to heal.

Hygiene is key: Use a very soft toothbrush to keep the area clean. Plaque buildup is the enemy of healing tissue.

The best defence is good offence—ensure your athletes wear a professionally fitted mouthguard. It’s a small investment that can save lot.

Wishing everyone a safe and successful season.

Just a note on baby teeth

It is important to remember: Never attempt to replant a baby tooth. Pushing a baby tooth back into the socket can damage the permanent adult tooth developing underneath it. If you aren’t sure if it’s a baby or adult tooth, keep it in milk and head straight to the clinic.

Gisborne expo to support people affected by family violence, alcohol and other drugs

Macedon Ranges residents seeking information and assistance with family violence, problem gambling, alcohol and other drugs and related financial pressures, will have access to a free one-day expo on Wednesday, 27 May.

The Stronger Together: Community Safety and Support Expo will be run by Macedon Ranges Health between 10am and 1pm at the sports hub in New Gisborne.

A range of local health service providers will attend the event, providing connection, awareness, support and information.

The event has been organised to raise awareness of causes, reduce stigma around seeking help, and promote support services while building and strengthening partnerships.

The expo aims to help the community better understand everyday issues that can impact safety and wellbeing, recognise when something is not right and feel more confident supporting others.

For more information go to www.mrh.org.au.

May: autumn is whispering… winter is about to yell

Mum Life – Sorted with Katrina

Wurm

You know that feeling in May when the mornings suddenly bite, the doona feels heavier, and you start mentally negotiating with yourself about whether it’s socially acceptable to wear Ugg boots all day?

That’s autumn gently tapping you on the shoulder and winter warming up in the wings.

This is the month I call the calm before the cold. And it’s the perfect time to do a little life admin before we all retreat into survival mode.

Here’s what I know from coaching mums in the thick of life: winter doesn’t create chaos, it reveals the systems you don’t have yet.

So let’s do a May reset. Start with a gentle declutter. Not the Instagram version where you colourcode your spice rack. I mean the real stuff. Coats that no one wears. Shoes that mysteriously lost their partner. That drawer full of cables you’re convinced belong to something important but can’t name. If it hasn’t been used since last winter, it probably won’t be used this one either.

RAMBLERS WALK

A very pleasant walk, with great views over farmland and countryside.

Distance: Long 8km, short 5km. Level: Easy Directions: From New Gisborne, drive along Hamilton Road towards Riddells Creek. Govans Lane is on the left. For the long walk, park at the junction and begin from here.

Then move to your winter readiness. Are the kids’ jumpers still fitting? Do you have gloves without holes in the fingers? Is there a stash of tissues somewhere? This isn’t busy work, it’s future-you protection. Every five minutes you spend now saves you 20 minutes of cold, cranky drama later.

Next, have a look at your evening routines. Winter nights are long, and they can feel endless when everyone is tired and grumpy. This is where simple structure saves families. Dinner, homework, showers, reading, whatever your flow is, write it down and stick it somewhere visible. When everyone knows what’s coming next, the house instantly feels calmer. Less negotiating, more moving.

And while you’re preparing everyone else, please prepare yourself too. Winter is the season when mums can disappear under beanies, expectations and everyone else’s needs. this is your reminder to stock your own toolkit. New book. Favourite tea. Warm socks that no one is allowed to touch. These aren’t luxuries, they’re survival gear.

So before winter storms in like an uninvited houseguest, take May as your month to clear the clutter, set the rhythm and quietly remind yourself of this: You don’t need to do more, you just need to do things in the right order.

Govans Lane & Riverside Rd, New Gisborne

For the shorter walk, drive along Govans Lane and park near where the road crosses the creek. (This is Riddells Creek). Walk up from the creek along Govans Lane which will transition into Riverside Road. Eventually the road ends in a turn-a-round. Retrace route to return. The road is driveable the full route, so the walk length can be to your preference.

Visit Gisborne Botanic Gardens to improve health and wellbeing

The Gisborne Botanic Gardens will come alive this month as part of Botanic Gardens Week, inviting the community to slow down, reconnect, and nurture their wellbeing in nature.

Held under the theme, 'Where Your Health Grows', the event highlights the role botanic gardens can play in supporting mental, physical, and social wellbeing. Visitors are encouraged to explore, unwind, and experience the restorative benefits of time spent among plants, wildlife, and open green space.

A program of activities will be offered on Saturday 23 May, featuring a Nature Connect 'Walkshop' led by life coach Goetz Neugebauer, inviting participants to deepen their connection with the natural world. There will be a mindful yoga workshop designed to focus the body and calm the mind. Local environmental artist Jo Mott will be capturing the spirit of the botany of the Macedon Ranges by creating emulates to treasure.

Adding a sensory dimension to the day, Chef James Sweeney will create tasting boxes inspired by the botanicals of the Macedon Ranges, offering visitors a chance to literally taste the landscape.

Tickets will be limited and available soon. Keep an eye on the Gisborne Botanic Gardens Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/friendsofgisbot, and local community noticeboards for updates.

For more information or membership enquiries, contact infogisbotgard@gmail.com.

INCLUDES:

INCLUDES:

INCLUDES

Entry into all home games

● ● ● INCLUDES:

Entry into all home games

Entry into all home games

Access to the Presidents Lunch with refreshments

Entry into all home games

Access to the Presidents Lunch with refreshments

Your choice of a Giants cap, beanie or scarf

Access to the President's Lunch with refreshments

Your choice of a Giants cap, beanie or scarf

Access to the Presidents Lunch with refreshments

Your choice of a Giants cap, beanie or scarf

Your choice of a Giants cap, beanie or scarf

Get closer to the action with our Club Orange Membership for just

Get closer to the action with our Club Orange Membership for just $275

Get closer to the action with our Club Orange Membership for just $275

Get closer to the action with our Club Orange Membership for just $275

Don't miss the chance to enjoy fame day in style. Become a Member of Gisborne Giants Club Orange!

Katrina Wurm

Colourful Grevillea

How do I advertise in the Gazette?

To advertise in the Gisborne Gazette, just contact our Advertising Coordinator on 0438 711 138 or email

Vet Talk Vet Talk

with Dr Caitlin Retchford Veterinarian

Contextualised care

I’m celebrating the spirited life of one of my cheekiest patients. Seppel managed to achieve a ripe old age, but it was not without mishap. An avid escape artist, and rabbit out-runner, he injured his knee as an older dog, and it really challenged us to find a solution that fit with the context of his activities on acreage, but did not involve surgery.

It’s not that surgery isn’t deemed the “best” option. In terms of gold standard for a torn cruciate ligament, it is. But it was not right for him. This decision was about looking at the entire context; age, lifestyle, costs, potential complications, recovery management, temperament, home support, alternative options.

These factors should be part of the conversation in every decision for patient treatment plans. I am pleased to see contextualised care beginning to gain traction over the former concept of gold standard, when vets make recommendations for the animals we treat. My concern with gold standard, is that the explosion of availability of medical technology in the veterinary industry risks pushing gold standard out of sight

No surgery for Seppel.

- it’s astronomical. Sometimes, that’s what we aspire to. But mostly, we need to consider the unique individual and their needs, and ensure we really provide the right care in the context that is right for that patient.

Contextualised care is an active concept. Just because “we can” doesn’t mean “we should”.

Medals and moves at Gisborne karate club

The Yuishinkan Goju-Ryu karate club in Gisborne is off to a strong start to the year, with students returning from the Australian Martial Arts Championships Round 1 competitions at the end of March with a swag of trophies and medals.

Judges commended the Gisborne students for their “excellent martial art techniques and professionalism”.

Goju-Ryu is a traditional Japanese style that blends hard and soft techniques, with classes focused on self defence, fitness, mental focus and self discipline. The dojo (school) welcomes students of all ages and experience levels.

Classes run on Thursday nights from 6pm at St Brigid’s school hall (entry from Fisher Street car park). Sessions are an hour and a half, $5 per class, and there are no term fees — just pay as you come.

New students are welcome. For more information, contact Joe on 0418 304 740 or gisbornekarate@gmail.com.

Joe

and football

Happy students with trainer display medals achieved at a competition in March.

Netball

captains of Macedon and Riddells Creek teams lay wreaths at Tony Clarke Reserve before their matches on Anzac Day.

May at The Gallery

Art Prize 2026

The annual Art Prize was judged and the winners were announced at The Gallery on 11 April. The first prize of $1000 went to Justine Hutchinson for her work, 'Weeping Cherry Blossom'. Highly Commended, $500, was awarded to Caroline Smyrk.

The winners’ art and that of the other competitors has been exhibited at The Gallery in April. The People’s Choice Award of $250 will be announced on Sunday 3 May. Make sure you visit and cast your vote.

Mildred at the Mount

May is a celebration of our local identity, Mildred the Cat. He is often found waiting at the door of The Gallery to meet and greet visitors for pats and photos. The exhibition goes from Tuesday 5 May to Sunday 31 May.

Gallery members have prepared an exhibition demonstrating their various creative skills. There will be a collection of textiles, hanging art (including oil, charcoal and pastel), photography, jewellery and miniatures work.

The Gallery, 684 Mt Macedon Road, Mt Macedon, is open from 10am to 4pm, from Friday to Tuesday.

Mildred, by Itta

The Art Prize winning entry, 'Weeping Cherry Blossom' by Justine Hutchinson.

Local 'identity' Mildred

A Mother's Day whimsical bouquet

Craft Corner

with Mary-Beth O’ Brien

Crochet flowers are a recent phenomenon that swept through the crochet community. For Mother's Day this year, try giving a lovingly crafted crochet flower bouquet.

Flower motifs and the inclusion of flower crochet stitches into all types of crochet patterns is always a welcomed feature. In this instance, I’m referring to the stemmed variety. Those that actually resemble a living plant or flower arrangement to resemble the real thing in a vase. Remarkably easy for an experienced crochetter to achieve.

Some basic supplies are required. Florist wire for one and the basic crochet tools, hook, cotton thread or yarn, a yarning needle and scissors. The range of flowers include roses, gerberas, carnations, daffodils, daisies, lilies and lavender are all possible to crochet.

Hanging plants are a favourite for those without a green thumb or as a house-warming gift; a no-fuss alternative to leaking pot plants, irregular or over

watering and no need to replace the inevitable demise of house plants.

Plants often selected to crochet include monstera, succulents, cactus as well as ivy and the string of hearts. These reside happily in any home or in a miniature state on the rear view mirror of your car. For all the work that goes into creating these beauties nothing replaces a living bouquet of fresh flowers.

Crochet and Conversation

Crochet and Conversation group meets at the Gisborne Library on the first Monday of the month at 2pm. Bring your latest work in progress and first timers are welcome.

Meet the motet: the ancient music style having a modern moment

Singers

Before choirs filled concert halls and before pop stars filled stadiums, there was the motet — a vocal showpiece that once echoed through stone cathedrals and royal courts. These pieces, built from multiple interlocking vocal lines, were the musical marvels of their day. They may sound serene, but they were the cutting-edge compositions of medieval and Renaissance Europe.

Some early commentators claimed motets were far too sophisticated for “common people,” insisting only the highly educated could grasp their subtlety. It’s a wonderfully dramatic bit of musical snobbery from centuries past. The Gisborne Singers are happily ignoring that old-fashioned gatekeeping. Their first concert of 2026 shines a spotlight on the English motet, bringing together works by Purcell, Holst, Tallis, Stanford and Weelkes. Sunday 3 May, 2.30pm at the Church of the Resurrection, Macedon. Tickets: $35 / $30 / Free. Book at www.trybooking.com/DJZSX. www.gisbornesingers.org.au. Sarah Lander

the Gisborne

Photographers take Gisborne ramble

In March, the Macedon Ranges Photographic Society held a photographic ramble in Gisborne. Members were set tasks to complete as they strolled around the John Aitken Reserve, the court house and Jacksons Creek.

These included shooting in black and white, looking for reflections and examining their composition to create striking images of familiar surroundings.

As with many club activities, it was a great opportunity for the less experienced photographers to get hands-on advice from others on how to get the most out of their cameras.

Mentoring is an important focus for the club with sessions regularly held for those with the same cameras to get together and help each other.

Club meetings continue through winter on the first Monday of the month at Jubilee Hall, Macedon, from 7pm. New members and visitors are welcome to attend.

For more information, please email info@macedonranges-photography.org.au

James Holgate Vice-President

Join the Chamber Poets

The next Chamber Poets event is on Saturday 9 May at Woodend RSL, 1pm to 3.30pm.

Special guests, open readings, live music, bar and snacks. $10 at the door.

Information: facebook.com/groups/ChamberPoets/

Introducing soprano Lily Flynn

Friends of Music at Resurrection are delighted to present emerging soprano Lily Flynn in recital at the Church of the Resurrection on Sunday 31 May, at 3pm.

A former Macedon resident and pupil of Candlebark, Lily sang with Young Voices of Macedon; she credits her discovery of classical music and a passion for singing to this experience. Lily went on to study singing at the VCA Secondary School, followed by Melbourne University.

Although nearing the completion of a Master of Music in Operatic Performance, Lily is already a wellestablished recitalist (with pianist Coady Green) in Melbourne, and winner of prestigious awards. She has recently sung the role of ‘Suor Genovieffa’ in Melbourne University’s production of Puccini’s Suor Angelica, and has been cast as ‘Galatea’ in the Royal Melbourne Philharmonic’s recital performance of Acis and Galatea

This concert offers a range of vocal delights, starting with the glorious ‘Let the bright Seraphim’ from Handel’s Samson and concluding with two arias from The Rake’s Progress by Stravinsky. Accompanist Coady Green, himself a prominent concert pianist, will also perform two études for solo piano by Anton Rubenstein.

The centrepiece of the program is the work Socrate (often referred to as a symphonic drama) by Erik Satie. Bookings: www.trybooking.com/events/landing/ 1559649

Chasing the Light. By Andrea Enever

Lily Flynn and Coady Green

A new light on Jacksons Creek bridge.

By Guy Robbins

What's happening at Mount Players

The Mount Players' second show, Mr Bailey’s Minder, a dramatic comedy by Debra Oswald, opens on Friday 8 May and runs until 24 May, and you may still be lucky enough to get yourself a ticket.

In the play, Leo Bailey - abusive, cantankerous and burned out by booze - is one of Australia’s national treasures. A gifted painter and chronic alcoholic, he can no longer take care of himself.

His resentful daughter, Margo, has been through a succession of minders, until Therese comes along, fresh out of jail and determined to make a go of her limited options. It’s a tough, funny, big-hearted play.

Tickets at www.themountplayers.com or call 0419 329 052 for assistance.

Auditions for August musical

There will be auditions on Saturday 16 and Thursday evening 21 May at the Mountview Theatre, Macedon. We require singers, dancers and musicians for the August musical.

The Mount Players are proud to present, in the vein of Jesus Christ Superstar and Tommy, the brand new, original rock opera, After-Light, as our third show of the year. Conceived by up and coming local composer, Zac Vanstone, this is sure to be a production to excite,

provoke and entertain. A seven-piece rock band will perform live on stage, in full view of the audience, as singers and dancers tell the story of Boy as he struggles through his past mistakes, exorcising his demons in a journey of self discovery and ultimately redemption.

For a full information pack and to book an audition, contact Craig Lenaine-Smith at mountplayerspresident @gmail.com.

See you at the theatre!

Scene from Mr Bailey's Minder

Autumn beauty. A reader's snap taken in Gisborne highlights the joy of the changing colours of autumn, and the connection so often found between nature and art.

Fungi in Daly Nature Reserve

As we move through autumn the recent rains have produced an abundance of fungi. Although we don’t always notice them, fungi are everywhere. Their mycelium (roots) grow throughout the soil and into decaying matter.

It is often believed that fungi only appear in autumn, but they are opportunists and will push up fruiting bodies any time of the year whenever there is decent rainfall.

A recent walk around Daly Nature Reserve located 15 species of fungi.

The fungi in the accompanying photo is one of the fleshy-pore fungi. Rather than having gills, which people normally tend to associate with fungi, it has a spongelike structure beneath the cap from which the spores disperse.

Once a fungi fruiting body emerges and opens, its job is done. Its sole purpose is to spread its spores. This is done by wind, rain, animals and humans disturbing them. Although most fungi are toxic to humans, insects can eat them and break them down so you rarely see fungi without some sort of damage. Next time you are in Daly Nature Reserve see how many you can spot.

Our working bees are on the second Tuesday of each month. Newcomers are always welcome and there are tasks suitable for all ages and abilities. We meet at the Scout Hall on Howey Street, starting at 9.30am and finishing around 11am with a cuppa and a chat.

Friends of Daly Nature Reserve, subgroup of Gisborne Landcare

Strolling about in three Gisborne gardens

A progressive lunch on a warm Wednesday was ideal when visiting three gardens in Gisborne.

The first course was held in an ideal setting with members sitting near a massive oak tree in the front garden. With the sun out it made it very enjoyable.

This garden was planted in a park-like setting with plantings of dahlias, roses, salvias and pots of petunias with an abundance of flowering hanging baskets embracing the house.

On to garden number two for the main course; it had a cottage garden theme. There were meandering

paths around sprawling garden beds filled with some summer flowering shrubs, roses and daisies among large potted plants and sculptures. In a shady area there were hanging baskets filled with shade-loving plants.

For the third course we visited a garden with wisteria along support trellises, plantings of hedges to separate one part of the garden from a large rear garden with tall gum trees.

A large weeping mulberry tree was a special feature as you walked from the rear of the courtyard to wander through the wisteria arbour a perfect finish to the day.

Moira, Gisborne Garden Club

Autumn morning

MELBOURNE PODIATRY

Fleshypore fungi in Daly Nature Reserve.

Members enjoy lunch at the second garden.

Yes, it's well into autumn, but behind Gardiner Oval in Gisborne the scene remains green and almost springlike. This picture was taken by an early-morning walker on 20 April.

Focus on outdoors for 1st Gisborne Scout Group

On Good Friday the Joeys, Cubs, Scouts and Venturers joined New Gisborne Scouts and the Gisborne CFA to walk door to door, collecting money for the Royal Melbourne Hospital Good Friday Appeal.

At the end of the day, we had collected over $11,000 for the appeal. A fantastic effort by everyone involved.

The Cubs teamed up with Helen and Andrew from the Friends of Daly Nature Reserve group to explore the bush surrounding our Scout Hall and learn how introduced grasses and other plants are crowding

Scouts on their hike through Lerderderg State Park, undeterred by the wet weather.

out the native species. After spotting plants and birds on a wander around the reserve, the Cubs made biodegradable newspaper pots and planted seeds and seedlings that will help restore the reserve. A big thank you to Helen and Andrew for sharing their knowledge and inspiring our young nature champions.

The Scouts recently headed off on an overnight hike through the Lerderderg State Park. Starting at O’Briens Crossing, they walked 12 kilometres along the Byers back track to Blackwood, where they set up camp for the night. The following morning, they walked 4km to the Garden of St Erth.

The Scouts carried everything for the weekend in their packs, including tent, sleeping gear and food. One of the weekend’s challenges was to cook a hearty meal on camping stoves.

The Scouts had a great weekend and even mastered the art of removing leeches.

For more information about the fun and adventurous things that we get up to, please follow 1st Gisborne Scout Group on Facebook with the attached QR code.

The Cubs plant seedlings with the assistance of Helen Radnedge from the Friends of Daly Nature Reserve.

Carolyn Goode (Joey Leader)

A surprise piece of Gardiner history found

A century ago, in 1926, the newly manufactured Model T Ford truck above was registered by Gardiner’s Garage in Gisborne and sold by the proprietor, Alex Gardiner. This year, the 100-year-old restored vehicle went on display with a special guest attending the unveiling: Alex Gardiner's son Peter.

The historic truck was displayed by Romsey Men’s Shed at an Open Day on 26 March. The vehicle's provenance was found by chance. Romsey resident Doug Newnham donated an old Model-T chassis, motor and drive train to the Shed in 2022, and four years and an untold amount of hard work followed, with detailed research revealing the vehicle's history, and parts being sourced from around the country and internationally.

Mr Newnham signed over the Model T to the Men’s Shed in perpetuity as a community asset.

Tales of Old Gisborne see ►page 33 Early Gisborne see ►page 32

1st New Gisborne Scouts roundup

April saw the 1st New Gisborne Scout Group proudly join with the wider Gisborne Scouting, SES and CFA community in the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal. Our youth members enjoyed the reward of hot chips for lunch. At time of writing, the next Group activity planned was the Anzac Day march in Gisborne.

Joeys finished up Term 1 with a fun-filled evening involving planning, ordering and, finally, eating their dinner. Cub Scouts had a great time at the recent Macedon Ranges District “Spy Camp”, learning secrets of espionage, tunnels and abseiling. Next comes a weekend bush Camp at Noonameena (near Lauriston).

A successful Bunnings barbecue saw us raise over $2000 towards the statewide 'Cuboree' in September.

We have planning permission for a dedicated trailer bay on the eastern side of our hut. The deposit will secure a mid-year building date. Then we will start fitting out the Scout Hut with toilets, kitchen and shelving. This project relies totally on loans, grants and donations (tax-deductible!).

Scouting offers proven programs, challenges and opportunities for young people and great training for leadership and support opportunities for parents. We meet Wednesdays, from 6.30pm to 8pm, Venturers on Fridays. Contact Group Leader Russell Barker 0400 297 025 or russell@jeem.com.au. For Venturers, call Tracey on 0407 098 032.

Gisborne Guides honour Anzac Day

With the restored T-Model Ford on 26 March are (from left): Peter Gardiner, Doug Newnham and Carl Neilson, business owner who sponsored the project.

1st New Gisborne Scouts contributed to the collection of a big total on Good Friday.

Guides with long-time leader Deb Fleming.

Marching to the war memorial, Hamilton Street.

KIDS' CORNER

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE

Jokes & riddles KIDS' quiz

What do you call a Roman emperor with a cold?

Julius Sneezer.

The butcher was two metres tall, had red hair and wore size 12 shoes. What did he weigh? Meat.

The pony was having trouble singing in the choir because he was a little hoarse.

What was the greatest invention ever?

The wheel. It got everything rolling. What nails do carpenters hate to hit? Fingernails.

What does Australia produce that no other country can?

Australians.

What kid of bulbs don’t need watering?

Light bulbs

Can you find 10 differences between the pictures?

1 Fish, insect, or bird, what is a Finch?

2 Approximately 95% of all opal is mined in which country?

3 Which animal features on the $1 coin?

4 What is the capital of Greece?

5 Antibiotics are used to kill which small one celled microbes in the body?

6 What do Americans call what we call the footpath?

7 What is the highest denomination Australian note in circulation?

8 What is the Roman numeral for 138?

9 The olfactory system is concerned with which human sense?

10 What is the name of a country in Asia and a type of porcelain used for tea cups?

Artwork by Eliza Ransome

QUIZ

1. What is the name of the NASA space capsule that went to the Moon in April?

2. What is the currency of Thailand?

3. What is the capital of Argentina? .

4. In which war did Florence Nightingale gain prominence?

5. What was the name of the Taylor Swift tour that finished in 2024?

6. In what year did the 13 American colonies sign the Declaration of Independence?

7. Who became Australian Prime Minister after the 2007 election?

8. Made popular by Coco Chanel, what is the LBD?

9. Sternutation is what explosive bodily function?

10. Analogue records are made from what plastic material?

Answers page 39

CROSSWORD Compiled

by Chris Antoniou

5 Whose Theory of Relativity?

6 Unit of electrical power

7 Sense organ with vitreous humour

8 Discoverer of the Heliocentric model, Nicholas…

10 Insulin producing organ

14 Inventor of the Phonograph surname

17 Element with the atomic number 92

18 His dogs salivated at the sound of a bell

19 Discovered Penicillin, Alexander…

20 Disease caused by lack of vitamin C

DOWN

1 Inventor of the Hovercraft, Chris ....…

2 Fifth planet from the Sun

3 Planet whose day is longer than its year

4 Also known as quicksilver

9. Numbers with only two factors, 1 and itself

11 Seed of an oak tree

12 Element with the atomic symbol Na

13 The study of living things

15 First Lunar Module to land on the moon

16 Planet with the moon Miranda

Answers page 39

National Water Week student poster competition open

Greater Western Water is inviting students of all ages to unleash their creativity with the return of its National Water Week poster competition for 2026.

Open to children and students from early learning centres and kindergartens through to primary schools and Year 7 and 8 secondary students across Greater Western Water’s service region, the competition challenges young people to explore this year’s theme, 'Water Heroes: Make Every Drop Count'.

Applicants are encouraged to paint, draw or use other creative materials to show how they can help save water for everyone. Pre-school and primary school students can also get involved by creating posters that capture how they will help to make every drop count. Secondary students in Years 7 and 8 are invited to take their ideas further, using traditional art materials or digital technology

to design posters that highlight innovative ways to conserve water.

Submissions opened on 21 April and close at 5pm on 11 September, with participants in the running to win a range of prizes and entry into the state-wide National Water Week poster competition. Winners will be announced during National Water Week in October. For more information, competition details and entry guidelines, visit gww.com.au/nww.

COUNCILLOR'S COLUMN

With Cr Alison Joseph

I was very concerned by the Minister’s decision to allow the removal of snow gums from Mount Macedon, contrary to the Council’s prior determination. There are proper legal pathways for disputing the decisions of a council, and I do not believe it is appropriate (or fair) for these to be circumvented by the Minister. There was no notice given to the community, the original objectors, or the Council that this process had been adopted for this application.

In saying that, I do not want to diminish in anyway the importance of the Mount Macedon Memorial Cross as a war memorial. My father was a longtime member of the Australian Defence Forces and served in a number of conflicts.

Because of his defence connections, growing up I met numerous war veterans, including WW1 veterans, many of whom continued to bear the physical and mental scars of war.

They left a lasting impression on me.

The Mt Macedon Memorial Cross is a place of quiet reflection where one can consider the human costs of war. And for me, a memorial cross wrapped in the warm embrace of snow gums, demonstrates the lasting connection between those who made the supreme sacrifice and the land they died for. And just as a forest grows, so does our understanding of the costs and impact of war change overtime.

The Mount Macedon Cross is one of the most important war memorials in the state, and everything we do should give due regard to this important purpose. I therefore do not support it becoming a tourism view spot, where many of those attracted to the view may not appreciate the purpose of the place.

There were plenty of other options that would have preserved the solemnity of the cross, protected the snow gums and provided opportunities for tourists, including a “snow gum walk” or alternative viewing platform.

Honouring our war dead, protecting the environment and catering for tourism are not mutually exclusive – and we could have had all three.

Gisborne CWA

It was nice to catch up with everyone at our April meeting after a longer break because of a long weekend and Easter. Our trading table, consisting of home grown produce, eggs, jams, plants and any other donated items was very popular on the day.

We had another travel tale from Kerri about Canada, our country of study, and I’m sure there will be many more to come before the end of the year.

Macedon CWA

Thank you to all who supported Macedon CWA Easter Raffle and congratulations to Jeni of Mount Macedon who was the lucky winner. Jeni has grandchildren who, surely, were happy to help her enjoy the contents. Thanks also to Mount Macedon Realty who let us use their veranda to set up our sales table and store our things overnight.

The State Conference is on 29 and 30 May at the Melbourne Showgrounds and it can be very interesting to listen to the many speakers they have to entertain. There is also the State Exhibition in Geelong West Town Hall in August which may be a little easier for us to visit than those further afield. The craft work and cooking displays are inspiring to see. There are judging courses that CWA members can complete, if they are interested in taking that on, judging craft and cooking around the state.

Our next meeting is Monday 11 May, at 10am at the Stadium at Gisborne Secondary College. Coffee, Craft and Chat is the following week on 18 May, where any ladies are welcome to drop in for a visit.

Christine Edwards 0437 953 253

On Saturday May 23, at 2pm, we are hosting a High Tea at our CWA Hall in Mount Macedon. The guest speaker is from Dress for Success. This charity provides access to suitable clothing for their clients to wear at employment interviews. Having good clothing options helps boost employment potential and confidence at stressful times.

Macedon CWA has been collecting some lovely clothing suitable for this purpose and will also give a monetary donation. If you would like to hear about the work Dress for Success does and enjoy a delicious High Tea please go to TryBooking - CWA Macedon High Tea, for tickets. The cost is $45.

Our Creative Arts Exhibition at Lancefield was very successful. We hope visitors enjoyed seeing the lovely items made by our CWA Central Highlands Group and the nice lunch or afternoon tea available.

If you have any queries about Macedon CWA, please call Anne Fyfield on 5426 2210.

provide

for those in need Enter via Heritage Way at the back of the Gisborne Uniting Church

Enquiries: 0492 850 520 Email: gisborneccf@gmail.com

Another regular coffee catch-up, this group of Gisborne fire brigade members, family and friends meet every Thursday morning at the Corner Cafe in Gisborne.

Coffee and camaraderie

Christine Edwards

Fun, friendship and fellowship in Probus

Community Bank backs

local sport

Local football and netball are receiving a major boost this year, with Community Bank Gisborne & District’s three-year sponsorship of the Riddell District Football Netball League (RDFNL).

Local sport is the heartbeat of the community. Every weekend, volunteers fire up the canteens, coaches rally their teams, and players of all ages pull on their uniforms with pride. When our clubs thrive, our whole region feels it.

That’s why Community Bank Gisborne & District is proud to sponsors the RDFNL and the many clubs that make it special – including the Gisborne Rookies, Gisborne Giants, Macedon Cats, Woodend Hawks and Diggers Rest Burras.

By choosing to bank locally, you’re helping the bank make such investments in the community.

Probus Club members each month enjoy staying connected through a monthly outing, which in March was sharing a lovely lunch at Houdini's in Diggers Rest.

Outings provide members with the opportunity to socialise outside the monthly meetings and offer new experiences, such as our April outing to the Australian Orphanage Museum in Geelong.

Probus in Gisborne provides a welcoming environment for retirees or semi-retirees and has done so for for more than 30 years.

The club was created to ensure that people had a place to connect, form friendships, offer a sense of belonging, and enjoy life beyond work.

The Probus motto of Fun, Friendship and Fellowship, is at the heart of the club.

If you wish to join this friendly and welcoming club, come and check us out at the next monthly meeting on Thursday 7 May. If you would like to find out more about Probus, you can contact the president, Gary Jones, on 0458 841 947.

Dianne Egan

Young players achieving

Gisborne Rookies Junior Football Netball Club celebrated the great achievement of two more more young boys debuting in the seniors on 12 April.

Club president Rob Waters said the two, Riley Evans and Kobe Zerafa, both played well and the club looked forward to watching their careers develop throughout the year. In their match the team had a very close loss, by just two points, against a strong South Bendigo side.

L-R: MC Brian Taylor, Board Director Liz O’Connell, branch manager Sarah Barton, board director Dominic Andreacchio and RDFNL CEO Jordan Doyle at the RDFNL season launch.

No thoughts of escape at this event: Probus members enjoy lunch at Houdini's restaurant.

THE BATTLE FOR

FONTAINEBLEAU

On the surface, these two buildings above could not be more dissimilar. One solid, imposing, cared for and maintained to the nth degree, oozing importance from every stone; the other dilapidated, bedraggled, oozing need from every splinter of timber and fibro.

And yet, these buildings are intrinsically linked, both bearing the weight of history, symbolism, and expectation. The heritage-listed Supreme Court building is home in Melbourne to the nation's modern tradition of British justice, and the heritage-listed Fontainebleau at Mt Macedon was once home to one of the nation's most celebrated artists, Frederick McCubbin.

Now one must decide the future of the other

Fontainebleau is at the centre of a legal stoush between its owners and the man who has been living in and caretaking the property for over 20 years.

The dispute erupted when the owners, a group of five people including long-time owners Paul and Mark Cutler, changed the management arrangements late last year and appointed the general manager of Duneira Estate, Melina Goddard, as property manager.

The caretaker, elderly pensioner Trevor Hoare, subsequently applied to the Supreme Court for adverse possession. He has lived at Fontainebleau under an agreement with Mark Cutler made in 2004. His lawyer, Kieran Hickey, told the Supreme Court in the first hearing last month that Mr Hoare had contributed his time, labour and money in the upkeep of the property.

The Cutler brothers now live in Hobart. They do not have the resources to maintain the home. But nor do they want to sell it. And nor, says Mark Cutler, do they want to see Fontainebleau ''turned into a resort or a multi-millionaire's weekend playground''.

McCubbin's great-grandson David, who visited the house in 2010, was heartened to learn at the time that the house was owned by two brothers who were sensitive to its spirit

and legacy. ''It's a huge relief to know that it's not some snide, pernicious little turd who has inherited the property. Sounds like their heart is exactly in the right spot," he said.

According to a 2010 report in The Age, it was brother Paul who was instrumental in the purchase of Fontainebleau in 1979. Just as Frederick McCubbin fell in love with the place when he stumbled upon it during a Christmas holiday in 1901, so too did Paul Cutler, though he was initially unaware of Fontainebleau's history. He quickly learnt of the McCubbin legacy and saw it as syncing perfectly with his own goals. But Paul Cutler's plans to transform the property into a retreat never eventuated. He lived at Fontainebleau for 21 years, and raised his children there.

The property was named by McCubbin back in 1901 after the forest of Fontainebleau in France where the Barbizan painters had worked. A key figure in the Heidelberg School, McCubbin used the surrounding bushland as inspiration for a number of works, including the famous triptych The Pioneer (1904).

Says writer Andrew Mackenzie of the artist's Mt Macedon years: "Here were the blue-green wattles that he loved to paint and here was the tangled undergrowth,

highlighted by the suns rays filtering through the bush, which he depicted in many of his works."

While the family returned to Melbourne in 1907, McCubbin continued to visit the property on weekends and holidays.

Now, the owners say they intend to restore the historic residence and establish a small, sustainable artists-inresidence program to improve community access, a course which would require a significant amount of money to be spent on restoration. The house is subject to a rectification order from Heritage Victoria.

Trevor Hoare clearly wants to remain where he is. Dilapidated or not, this has been his home and he has been looking after it as best he can for over two decades.

Both sides have now been heard in the venerable old Supreme Court, and await the court's decision.

In the interim, the owners have been ordered to give the keys back to Mr Hoare and allow him possession of his dilapidated but special home.

The adverse possession claim is being assessed by Land Use Victoria (a division of the State Planning Department, responsible for managing the state's land administration – registration, titles, surveying etc.) and the case is scheduled to return to court in August.

The Supreme Court in Melbourne, left, and Fontainebleau on Mount Macedon: one's future will now be decided by the other.

Pip Butler

The Pioneer , McCubbin (1904)

Fontainebleau in 2010, disapidated, but clearly being looked after.

SCHOOL'S IN

Merit Scheme starts at Secondary College

Term 1 saw Gisborne Secondary College introduce the Merit Scheme, a system designed to reward individuals and cohorts for their collective efforts in demonstrating our school’s expected behaviours.

It has been wonderful celebrating the positive contributions our students make to the school community by consistently displaying the college values of Respect, Achievement, Innovation and Diversity across all areas of school life.

This culminated in merit awards being presented at year-level assemblies in the final weeks of term, some of which included vouchers/prizes.

One mentor group from each year level was also recognised for earning the highest merits with a

non-uniform day in the last week of term.

We look forward to the merit system continuing to gain momentum and driving a positive and supportive culture across the college.

Looking ahead to Term 2, we eagerly await the whole school athletics carnival early this month.

You’ll hear a report from this day, and our swimming carnival held last term, from our Sports Captains in next month’s edition.

Susanne Tzamouranis, Community Liaison

Developing service and leadership

Day

In its 50th year, Braemar College continues to celebrate the programs that shape its young people, with the Army Cadet Unit standing as a powerful example of service, leadership and personal growth.

Unlike some long-established schools, Braemar does not draw on a deep Old Collegian connection to past conflicts. Instead, our Cadet Unit reflects a forward-looking commitment to developing character and a sense of contribution in today’s young people.

The unit was established through the vision of the founding headmaster, Graham Farley, whose belief in the value of cadet programs, alongside the influence of similar schools, led to its formation. From these beginnings, the unit has grown into a vibrant and respected part of college life.

Leadership has always been central to its success. A succession of commanding officers has shaped the

unit’s culture, while student leaders have consistently stepped forward to guide their peers. This was particularly evident during the COVID period, when cadets adapted to weekly online parades, maintaining connection, routine and purpose during a time of disruption.

Today, the unit provides students with opportunities to participate in field exercises, leadership training and promotion courses. It continues to perform strongly, often matching or exceeding the achievements of larger units.

The Cadet Unit also plays a key role in Anzac commemorations. From assisting at the Mount Macedon Dawn Service to participating in local parades and supporting the college’s own service, cadets contribute with professionalism and respect.

Through their involvement, Braemar cadets exemplify the enduring values of service, teamwork and leadership.

Russell Deer, Principal

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.

Why did the student eat his homework? Because the teacher said it was a piece of cake

GISBORNE SECONDARY COLLEGE

With Anzac

fresh in the mind, Braemar principal Russell Deer writes about the school's Cadet unit

Anzac Day activities early in the school's history.

Gisborne Primary Dance Club

It’s finally Wednesday and it is the day for moving and grooving. Molly and Scarlett, Year 6 student leaders, are running our lunchtime Dance Club.

When you enter, the warm-ups are just to get you started. It’s already a blast! You might be dancing to one of your favourite songs; you know it is going to be fun.

During Term 1, Dance Club has been super busy practising and refining our dance moves in readiness for our Zoo dance performance at assembly. On 26 March, we all hustled around getting ready for our exciting moment.

We all wore animal headbands, as a celebration from the Zoo perspective.

Some of the Foundation students were nervous before going onto the stage, because this was their first time performing in front of a crowd - but some were having the time of their lives. The music played and everyone was grooving and moving to the beat.

Dance Club is very inclusive. Sometimes there will be over 40 students from all different year levels, all

dancing together. Molly and Scarlett make it so much fun, and they are both very patient and kind to all students. We love Dance Club!

Maddie J and Cleo C-N, Year 5 Writers’ Club and Dance Club members

House pride at New Gisborne Primary

Every student and teacher at New Gisborne Primary School is assigned to a house. Unfortunately, we don’t have a sorting hat like Harry Potter, but we do have four amazing houses that instil in us pride and team spirit. The houses are Galloway, Devlin, Lee and Hurst.

Galloway is named after Agnes Galloway, the first female teacher at New Gisborne in 1913. She was also an accomplished piano player.

Devlin’s name comes from the school’s first principal and teacher in 1872, Oliver Devlin.

Lee got its name from the first state appointed teacher for NGPS, Richard Lee. He taught at the school for 25 years. His wife, Maria, was also the postmistress for New Gisborne.

And Hurst is named after William Hurst, who gave the land for the school to be built on way back in 1863. He was the local hotelkeeper.

In the 1980s, school staff chose a colour to represent each house. They picked colours that were bright and stood out from each other. These days, for school families, Galloway is synonymous with yellow, Devlin with blue, Lee with red and Hurst with green.

In 2015 students voted on a mascot to represent their house. Each of the houses chose an animal which would represent their team spirit and athletic abilities. Hence, we have the Galloway Grizzly Bears, the Devlin Dingoes, the Lee Lions and the Hurst Hawks.

More than just a school gate: life at Holy Cross

There is a distinct energy at Holy Cross right now! While we’ve welcomed new faces across every year level, none are quite as bright-eyed as our new Preps. It has been a joy watching them begin their learning journey, especially as they are greeted by their “big buddies” each morning. Between the friendly faces at the gate and the visits to our very productive school chickens, our newest students have had a wonderfully smooth and confident start to the year. The undisputed highlight for the Preps so far? Bringing their bikes and scooters to school. While one enthusiastic student was a little

disappointed he had to leave his motorbike at home, the newly painted traffic school and bike track have been a massive hit for our student community, designed and developed with our student body. We’re not keeping this space to ourselves, though. Thanks to a generous grant from Community Bank Gisborne & District, our vision for a safe, joyful community hub is coming to life. We’ll be hosting a Grand Opening and Blessing on a date in the near future- so join us on our socials to find key dates. We can’t wait to see local families making memories here.

Leading this charge are our 2026 School

Captains: Jack, Henry, Ruby, and Adelaide. They’ve already stepped up as mentors working closely with their peers and teachers to ensure every child feels seen, heard, and at home at Holy Cross.

This term, we have our TODDLER TIME commencing on Wednesday 29 April from 9am. Each Wednesday we will Dive into dazzling stories; Get hands-on with sensory play and creative crafts; move and groove to songs; and Build new friendships. All are welcome to join us! Any queries, please email jbarlow@hcnewgisborne.catholic.edu.au.

Jane Barlow, Deputy Principal

School Captains: Jack, Henry, Ruby, and Adelaide with the Principal.

Scarlett, Laila, Isla and Molly. Scarlett and Molly choreograph, plan and run Dance Club each week for students in F-6.

Fiona Benson, Ethan, Ian, Warren Bradford, Charlie, Zander, Janet DiPilla, with Pat Daly and unofficial canine mascot, Lucy, in front.

Teen robotics team charges into

Creative sparks and real-world learning at Global Village

Over the summer learning sprint, learners at Global Village Learning embraced a range of rich and ‘EDventurous’ experiences that brought their projects to life.

A highlight was time spent at the Old Auction House in Kyneton, where young people explored glass fusing as part of their arts-based learning. This hands-on experience allowed learners to express creativity while developing new technical skills in an authentic setting.

GVL’s commitment to offsite learning continued throughout the season, with learners engaging in bushwalking, outdoor education, science and the arts.

A particularly thought-provoking experience was a visit to the Body Worlds exhibition in Melbourne, where learners deepened their understanding of the human body and explored complex scientific ideas in a highly engaging way.

Back on campus, our learning hubs have been full of energy, with learners making the most of our pod spaces to collaborate, create, and grow. We are also excited to welcome our new portable learning spaces, supporting the continued growth of our community.

Bec Exploration and Discovery Guide

regional competition

The Global Village Learning robotics team, 'Totally Clucked Robotics', competed in a robotics competition in Sydney in March. This was the team’s first event and they loved every minute of it.

The competition was the First Robotics organisation's Southern Cross Regional competition.

The game the robots were to play in the comp was released on 11 January. Totally Clucked’s mentor team (IC Robotics) hosted a read-through of the rules on release day, when multiple teams took a deep dive into the intricacies of the game.

After that, it was back to GVL to build the robot and the game pieces - in eight weeks - so that the robot could be tested and improved.

The team knuckled down and spent many days of their holidays at GVL with their mentors, getting the building, wiring and carpentry done.

Once in Sydney, it was three days of non-stop action. As the second-smallest team in the competition, GVL's team members were expected to jump into many different roles, from mechanic, to electrician, to interviewee, to name a few.

The students had to solve problems under pressure, make running repairs, be on time for their many matches, and collaborate on strategy with other teams. The team’s commitment and determination in a fast-paced and high-pressure environment were clear to see.

The team finished in high spirits and are now working towards the Melbourne Robotics Tournament in July.

Win pass to Historic Winton event

As in previous years, the organisers of the Historic Winton motorsport racing event have generously offered to the Gazette a double pass to this year's event, being held on the weekend of May 30 and 31. Email us at gisbornegazetteeditor@gmail. com with your favourite classic car, to go in the draw to win the tickets. The winner will be notified by the Editor.

Self-nominations now open, closing on 10 July 2026

Gisborne & Mount Macedon Districts Historical Society

LOCAL HISTORY Gisborne in early times

Researched by Robin Godfrey

From the 1830s, when John Aitken settled at Mount Aitken, to the 1850s, the inhabitants of the district were fairly thinly distributed. Indigenous Wurundjeri clans populated the area, squatters and their staff, and there were a couple of pubs. Traffic through what became Gisborne was sparse, mostly to and from Melbourne and from runs that were situated further north.

In 1851, Robert Hoddle prepared a map of the Gisborne township which he sent to Sydney with a note: “I have the honour to forward a plan showing the proposed Township on the Macedon Road which his Honour, the Superintendent, Mr La Trobe has named Gisborne. The plan shows the suburban allotments in the neighbourhood, together with the general cemetery.”

The town was named after Henry Fyshe Gisborne, Crown Commissioner for the Port Phillip District.

Hoddle’s map showed the Melbourne highway, but at that time the road was not yet built. The town, one mile square (2.5km) in area, was set out with the street names known to us today and 15 numbered sections, westward from the top of Melbourne road hill to Stephen Street and northward from Howey Street. There were some larger lots along Willowbank Road. The block from Hamilton Street to the creek (where the Court House and Police Station were later to be built) was not surveyed, as it was a swamp, prone to flooding at the time. The map also showed the location of the old Bush Inn and Macedon House.

In his book Squatting in Victoria, 1841 to 1851, Edward M. Kerr gives a good description of the Bush Inn, as follows:

“The building was of slabs, roofed with shingles in the usual way. The structure’s dimensions

Gisborne Court House  4 Hamilton Street Open Wednesdays 10am to 4pm  Phone 5428 1450 e: history@gisbornemountmacedon.org.au www.gisbornemountmacedon.org.au

were about 35 feet by 12, (10m x 3.5m) with a skillion in the rear, which ran the whole length of the building. The exterior and dividing walls were seven feet (2m) high. The ceiling was of white-washed canvas, and a covering of the same material lined the walls in lieu of plaster.

“The sitting room was about 15 feet (4.5m) long and in the centre was a deal (pine) table, one end of which was laid with washing utensils for the morning. Also on the table was a large brass bell, such as is used by town-criers, and a single tallow candle in a makeshift candlestick, which guttered on to the oilcloth covering.”

“Four sofas were also in the sitting room, of the poorest sort,

on two of which beds had been made. One bed had an occupant who was already asleep. He was probably a squatter, travelling between his station and town. His boots, hat, and clothes had been thrown on the floor beside him; a tobacco-pouch hung suspended by a leather belt from the head rail of the sofa and from under his pillow protruded the end of a valise and the butt of a horse pistol.

“Besides visible discomfort, a conglomerate aroma of tobacco, beer and mutton-birds (new to me at that time) pervaded the atmosphere; whilst now and then the canvas ceiling, shaken by a passing air, which fortunately found ingress under the eaves, gave a sort of purge which reminded one of the sails

of a ship in the light weather of the tropics.

“From the tap, in the meantime, which was within a yard (metre) distant – the only separation being the walls and ceiling already described – proceeded the wrangling, laughter and oaths of half-a-dozen drunken men. The songs and shouts of those drinking in the bar, continued till nearly daylight.

“When morning came, having performed our ablutions in the creek situated in front of the Inn (doubly welcome after a feverish night) and our toilet on its banks, we called for our bill…”

The discovery of gold in Victoria changed Gisborne almost overnight. An old resident, name unknown, who was a small boy

in 1857, described the town before the railway opened in 1861:

“There were two breweries, one carried on by Terry Bros., who later were well-known brewers in Melbourne, 12 hotels, a wine shop, several stores (grocery, hay and corn etc.), harness makers, saddlers, blacksmiths, butchers and business people of all kinds who made fortunes during the goldrush years. Cobb & Co. were in full swing in Gisborne then. Men were pouring through to the diggings and carriers were in hundreds on the roads…”

The land from Hamilton Street to Jacksons Creek was low and swampy, and on 29 July 1852, a motion was passed in the Legislative Assembly to improve the passage of traffic. A causeway from the New Bush Inn (the Telegraph Hotel) to the creek was built about 1853, costing £500 (approx. $20,000 in 2026).

This causeway required raising the surface above the swamp. Large logs were laid together with stone pitchers (pavers) and road-metal. A toll bar and cottage were just on the other side of the creek to the north of the bridge.

The Court House was built on filled ground in 1858, the Mechanics Hall in 1860, and the corner store on the north-west corner of Aitken and Hamilton Streets in 1861.

The construction of the railway, with New Gisborne station situated two miles (about 3km) from the town, and the developing towns of Macedon and Riddells Creek, inhibited the growth of Gisborne.

When the railway opened to Woodend on 8 July 1861, goods destined for the gold fields and settlements beyond Gisborne bypassed the town by being delivered by rail directly to Woodend. Freight transport by road, from the Woodend railway terminus, was then taken over by continued next page 

Gisborne in early times

Aitken St (south of Hamilton St)

Old Bush Inn & stables

Court House (viewed from rear)

The old days

By Eddie Gardiner

The old days that the Gardiners spoke about in their stories of Gisborne life went back from the forties and fifties to the 1900s.

Dadhad stories going back to the 1900s. I don’t go back that far, but I consider myself lucky to have lived in a time when it was possible to catch a glimpse of the old days and the old ways and see sights and hear sounds familiar to previous generations of times and things long since past.

With no television when we were kids, we sat around the kitchen table at tea time and we talked and talked. Everyone

 continued from previous page

carriers. The previously burgeoning traffic of goods and people by road through Gisborne declined considerably and the population dropped away, leaving a smaller proportion mainly to service the surrounding farming community.

Humphrey P Dixon recorded in his memoirs that when his father was four years old, in 1872, the latter was taken by his mother (Humprey Dixon’s grandmother) to a native camp at the corner of Brantome and Hamilton Streets.

The land extending from this area to the creek was a swamp filled with rushes at that time.

The memoir noted that this was one of the last occasions when the aboriginal tribes of the district, custodians of the land before Europeans arrived, gathered within the township of Gisborne.

Tales of old Gisborne

had a fair go at saying what we wanted to say.

In Gisborne, sights like Morrisons’ magnificent traction engine that in the hay-cutting season moved from farm to farm towing its road train of equipment: mowers, reapers, binders, threshers, chaff cutters— and the cook house bringing up the rear.

Sometimes the procession chugged through the middle of the town. Men talked of sheaves, stooks and haystacks.

Flocks of sheep were often moved to the sheep dip which was behind where the Ampol

service station is now. Aitken Street would sometimes be wall to wall with sheep.

The sale yards, which used to be where the Aldi Supermarket is now, was gone by the time when we were kids. There were only remnants of it left.

Horses and horse-drawn carts were not an uncommon sight in the town.

There was the day the cattle escaped from the railhead at New Gisborne and a couple of wild young locals on horses Bill Deverall and Hugh Ross-Thomson rounded them

up. Amazing scenes, hurtling up and down Aitken Street, something like something out of The Man from Snowy River

After a four-kilometre chase, the cattle, cowed and beaten, were herded back to the station.

In those days Gisborne was ringed by about 15 farms.

The names of local farmers I can recall are Neal, Ross-Thomson, Heard, McCorkell, Campbell, Tweddle, Watson, McGregor, Whatley, Robertson, Wall, Gilligan, Deverall and Dalrymple.

Left: Morrisons’ threshing machine, which was towed with all the other equipment necessary, behind their traction engine.

of Couangalt, after his house was destroyed by fire in 1944.

Right: Two of the surrounding farmers of Gisborne.

Top: Jack Heard of Wyabun Park with his dog Bouncer, and Jack McCorkell

The Court House and stables and police station and jail in foreground, and Old Bush Inn and its large stable building on the other side of Hamilton Street, 1860.

AROUND THE GROUNDS

Strong showing for Thunder in junior country titles

The annual All-Junior Country Championships were held at the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre in March, showcasing the best young swimming talent from across regional Victoria.

Designed to give developing athletes experience at a higher level, the championships marked a milestone for several Thunder swimmers competing at a major event for the first time.

Qualifying took place at Bendigo in late February. Pushing through nerves and spurred on by encouragement from the sidelines, 27 Thunder swimmers produced outstanding results, with 20 swimmers achieving top-eight finishes across 60 events.

The championships continued over two days in midMarch. Eighteen Thunder swimmers competed in semi-

Macedon

Month of quality golf at Mt Macedon

The autumn rains and sunshine have combined to ensure that the Mount Macedon golf course is in magnificent condition with an extensive coverage of new grass across the course.

The March Monthly Medal saw two medals awarded. Peter Palmer won the playoff for the February Medal which was held on the day, and the March Medal went to Mike Hoiles with a net 66. Gross winner was Richard Payne with 75 (along with two nearest-the-pins).

The April midweek Mug o’ the Month (and B Grade) was taken out by Geoff Pickles with a great score of 39 Stableford points. Second place and (A Grade) went to Ian Flannery with 38 points.

The annual Club Championships will be held over three weeks in May, and all members are reminded to get their entries in for what is the centrepiece of members events for the year.

Sean Bassett

Macedon lawn bowls – give it a try

final events. Every swimmer recorded at least one personal best. A standout performance came from Arthur G, who shaved an impressive 15.21 seconds off his 50-metre butterfly time.

Ten swimmers qualified for finals: Ava H, Samuel R, Maverick H, Max D, Frankie G, Oliver G, Charlotte J, Thomas J, Wallace L and Caleb M. Thunder also celebrated podium success, with bronze medals awarded to Samuel R in the 12-year-old boys backstroke and Maverick H in the 14-year-old boys backstroke. The club congratulates all swimmers on their achievements.

The next club night is on Saturday 9 May at Gisborne Aquatic Centre, with registrations opening at 4.45pm.

Kate Hager

Ranges Croquet Club

The Macedon Ranges Croquet Club had a busy March with the club’s championships played over a threeweek period, the weather co-operating nicely.

With a field of 24 players contesting two trophies, the games were played with much enthusiasm by all. Well done all. The winners were: Club Champion − Penny Krstev, and Helen Shirley Trophy Lisa Morrison.

The club held a twilight game on 20 March which was a great night, with over 40 members and guests attending. We had new people learning croquet, and finished off with a sausage sizzle and the drawing of our Easter raffle. During March we also hosted the Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Special-

ist School, Bullengarook campus, with teachers and students having games of croquet which were enjoyed by all.

The club is open Mondays, Wednesday and Saturdays to new persons who would like to come and try the game with a friendly group of people. Terry

Lawn Bowls started in Australia in 1845 and up until 1930, the bowls were made of wood. Now, you can even have bowls in your favourite AFL team colours.

A lot of changes have been made to the bowls and the game of bowls over time, but one constant is the challenge of the game (more difficult than you might think). Bowls can be played by everyone regardless of age, so why not give it a try?

Contact us at secretarymadedonbowls@gmail.com . A big thank you to the many people who have enjoyed our barefoot bowls nights, we really appreciate your support.

Lesley Ritchie, Secretary

The phoenix rises again

Two years ago, a wooden duck was one of the few remaining items that stood amidt the ashes of the destroyed Gisborne Golf Club. Where this duck came from, how it survived the fire and what golfing event of the past it represented remains a mystery.

The duck has aptly been named the Phoenix, after the mystical bird from Greek mythology that rose from the ashes, just like the golf club has after the devastating fire.

Now, each year around 17 April, the club reflects on the past and celebrates the future with the Phoenix, where all members compete for this title.

This year the Phoenix coincided with the opening of the new clubhouse, and a field of 220 golfers competed. In a closely fought contest, Benny Chui set won the day on a countback from the previous

winner, Dom Hogan and rising star, young Jackson Lee.

The Phoenix now sits proudly in an enclosed case in the Gisborne Pro Shop, keeping an eye on the next chapter of our club’s history. Dom Hogan

Swimmers at the All-Junior qualifying event in February at Bendigo East swimming pool.

Antique wooden bowl

Croquet Club champions Penny Krstev and Lisa Morrison.

Jo-anne McPhee with Phoenix winner Benny Chui.

Exciting finals and a new era for women’s futsal

The 2025-26 summer futsal competition came to an exciting conclusion in late March, bringing with it grand final matches with plenty of friendly rivalry and firstclass effort from all players. A record 11 matches were decided by only one goal.

On the opening night of the grand finals, spectators were treated to nail-biting finishes, with multiple matches going into overtime and teams desperately searching for that golden goal the first team to score wins the match.

With no golden goal scored, Girls Junior Secondary Division teams Athletic Phoenix and Sunbury United battled it out in a penalty shoot-out, before Sunbury United came out on top.

Congratulations to all the grand final teams, and particularly those who were triumphant in the end.

In an exciting development for female participation in futsal, the upcoming winter season will see the commencement of an inaugural Women’s Open Division. This is a Friday night competition and perfect for women wanting a fun fitness option, mums and friendship groups and those who have recently finished in the girls Year 9/10 competition.

All skill levels are welcome. For more details contact competition coordinator Amanda Ruziscka on 0439 591 294 or go to www.mrfutsal.org.au/contact.

Kristy Mutsaers (committee member)

South Gisborne tennis courts light up

The club was surprised on 10 April with the announcement by local MP Mary-Anne Thomas that the club, in collaboration with the Macedon Ranges Shire Council, was successful in an application for a full upgrade to the LED lighting on all six courts.

This project was four years in the making with many hours worked to achieve this fabulous result. The club is incredibly grateful to Mary Anne for awarding us the funds to complete the project.

We would also like to thank our community, all users and supporters of the club. The Spark Coaching team, Sunbury and Macedon Ranges Specialist School, Distinctive Options, Tennis Victoria and of course our committees over this time. We look forward to offering more opportunities to play tennis, pickleball and other activities throughout the year.

The winter MRTA Junior season has begun and with six teams entered the place will be busy. It’s not too late to join a team or look to playing Tuesday Ladies tennis.

All Abilities are back in full swing Thursdays at 3.30pm and the coaches have all courts pumping.

Rug up and come down. Not a member? You can book a court via www.southgisbornetc.com.au Easy! See you soon.

Gail Scott

Petanque

For a little-known ball sport, petanque can take its players to many venues around Australia, and if good enough, around the world.

Competitions in Victoria are on every weekend, in all forms: singles, doubles and triples. It is a sport where men and women can play together.

March saw Mt Macedon club members playing at Woodend in triples, Avoca in doubles and Mt Martha in a team event, where Rhonda Shears won a gold medal as part of the Australian team against New Zealand.

Several members also competed at the national titles held in Adelaide during Easter. June Hunter was a winner in 60+ ladies triples and Rhonda Shears second in 60+ ladies doubles-very good results from such a big field of 180 players from around Australia. Club vice president Danny Green was one of the umpires officiating at the Nationals, for his 10th time, with some days play going for 12 hours, enforcing the rules of petanque.

Come and see our players in action, behind the Ampol Service Station in Station Road, every Wednesday from 1pm, and every second and fourth Saturday from 10am, or visit the website at mtmacedonpetanque.org.

Big month for Gisborne Tennis Club

Gisborne Tennis Club wrapped up a fantastic March, celebrating the end of the Junior Summer Season along with our Junior and Open Club Championships.

The Junior summer competition saw nine teams and around 46 players involved across the season. Of those, six teams made finals, three reached grand finals, and two finished as premiers — a great achievement.

We also held our Junior Club Championships on 1 March, with 30 players competing across A, B, C and D grades. Later in the month, the Open Club Championships brought another great day of tennis and a wonderful atmosphere.

What stood out most across all events was the effort, sportsmanship and support shown by players on and off the court.

It was fantastic to see so many people enjoying their tennis, challenging themselves, and representing the club so well.

A big thankyou to all players, families, volunteers and supporters who helped make the season and these events such a success. Leigh

Some of the keen players at South Gisborne.

Players in action at Gisborne Tennis Club.

Grand final winners the Raptors, Mixed Senior Primary White Division

takes players all over the place

Gisborne seniors v Bendigo South, 11 April. Sport in Pictures, see ►next page

Rhonda, Carol and Paul at Apollo Bay.

SPORT IN PICTURES

Futsal tournament 17 April: Strikers v Six 7

Senior football, Gisborne v Bendigo South

Cricket grand final, Gisborne v Woodend: bowler Gisborne’s L Brennan.

Futsal grand final 26 March: Storm Strikers v Spice Goals

Futsal grand final, 26 March: Macedon Ranagers MR City v Raptors

Senior cricket, 21 March: Jarryd Vernon in a catching moment

Under 15, Macedon v Giants, 12 April

Under 13, Macedon v Giants, 12 April

The art of the leap

Netball: A-Reserve, Gisborne v South Bendigo, 11 April.

Football: Seconds, Gisborne v South Bendigo, 11 April.

Under 13, Macedon v Giants, 11 April

Aiden serves in a tournament at Macedon Tennis Club, 16 April

Grand final McIntyre Cup, Gisborne v Woodend: Batter, L. Brennan

Grand final McIntyre Cup, 20 March: Brenton Cook about to be bowled

THE CHURCHES

St Brigid’s Parish Gisborne

– incorporating St Ambrose Riddells Creek and St Patrick’s Macedon

Parish Priest: Fr. John Healy

Assistant Priest: Fr. Zaher Al Mhanna

Unfortunately St. Patrick’s Church at Macedon is currently closed for repairs sustained in the storms in February.

Baptism

Baptism is available each month, generally on the fourth 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.

Sacraments

Registration is open for Sacraments to be celebrated this year.

Please contact the office at gisborne@cam.org.au if you would like to be included in information sent out for Sacraments this year.

Reconciliation – now closed

Holy Communion available to Year 4 and above and Confirmation now closed.

Sacrament fee for 2026 is $100. Baptism details required for registration.

Normal weekend services

Saturday 6pm St Brigid’s Sunday 8am St Ambrose

Sunday 11am St Brigid’s Everyone welcome!

Weekday services

Please check the parish website for the weekday Mass schedule as it may change regularly.

Parish Secretary: Tammie Dalgleish Office hours: Tuesday and Thursday 9am to 5pm Parish website: www.melbcatholic.org/s/gisborne Tammie

Intriguing

Another reminder of

Mount Macedon Uniting Church restoration

Forty-two years after Ash Wednesday, the Mount Macedon Uniting Church needs substantial restoration to maintain its integrity.

Progress has been made. The vintage IHS window frame was replaced last year, including leadlight work.

Recently, the skylights, which leaked causing ceiling damage, were replaced. Johnno’s boys at JC Roofing of Macedon did a great job.

Timber barge boards and facias have also been replaced and repainted where necessary.

The slate roof is a bigger challenge. The slates used contain pyrites, which “rusts” with weathering, leading to delamination and breakage of the slates, especially on the north face. Confusingly, several different solutions have been offered. It needs replacement of missing and damaged slates with cleaning and application of a sealant at least, up to full and expensive replacement will be required. We still seek the best long-term solution.

Also, half the church floor heating has failed and the old gas heaters in the lounge need to be replaced with electric split systems to meet the Uniting Church’s target of carbon neutral by 2040.

Despite the challenges, we continue to serve the community at the iconic “little Church on the mount”.

Neil Tweddle, 0488 001 336

The hills are alive – with trees!

Gisborne Uniting Church

Macedon Ranges in autumn means trees: vivid liquidambars, bright yellow gleditsia and avenues of oaks which recall the sacrifices of soldiers and which also honour the trees themselves.

There are forests of eucalypts, heirs to ancient times. Trees are high on the list of why we live in the Ranges and love it.

Sadly, there are few if any trees left in Gaza or parts of Lebanon. The border areas of Ukraine are scarred with tree skeletons.

No tree? No birds, no butterflies nor the myriad fascinating tiny insects which nest in them.

The Bible has at least 312 references to trees from the very first book of Genesis to the last, Revelation. Some are daunting, like the great cedars of Lebanon, others are productive, as the fig and the olive.

Our recent celebration of Easter has a tree, the Cross, at its centre. Its first meaning is of suffering but on Easter Day we ‘green’ the Cross to symbolise new life.

As usual, our gardeners declare they have nothing left to pick, especially after that recent hailstone deluge, but then on Sunday come the baskets full of autumn glories.

Of course there’s still our messy world to consider. In our regular services we reflect on the needs of the desperate, the distressed and the displaced of many countries. Reflection needs action.

One of the major current projects of the Uniting Church is research into the exploitation of labour brought in from overseas, a form of modern slavery. Many of the goods we import, from coffee to palm oil, also can come from the work of forced labour.

Here in Gisborne we are small players in large matters but if all the small players across the world joined together...!

Janet Wood

Fifty days of Alleluia, joy in the cooling light

Eastertide is not a single day, but a great season of 50 days, stretching from Easter Day to Pentecost. It is the Church’s long, bright ‘Alleluia’, a time when the joy of the resurrection is given space to breathe, to settle, and to grow within us. The empty tomb is not rushed past. Instead, we are invited, again and again, to *come and see*—to witness the risen Christ at work in the world and in our lives.

These 50 days unfold like a journey. In the early weeks, we walk with the disciples as they encounter the risen Jesus in wonder and even uncertainty. Then comes the Ascension, where Christ is lifted into glory, not to abandon the world, but to fill all things with his presence. The story does not end there. It reaches its

fullness at Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit is poured out upon the Church, sending us into the world with courage and joy.

Here in Australia, Eastertide carries us into the cooler months. The heat of summer fades, the air sharpens, and the light softens. Yet in this changing season, the Church proclaims an unchanging truth: Christ is risen. As the world around us grows quieter, we are called inward and upward—to notice, to listen, to *come and see* the life of God still at work.

Eastertide teaches us that resurrection is not a moment, but a way of life. In every season, in every shifting wind, the risen Christ meets us—and bids us come and see.

With every blessing to you all, Fr. Scott

New skylights installed.

growth of fungi spotted on a stump on a Mt Gisborne property in April.

how nature and art can be intertwined.

YEARS AGO

Gisborne Shire Council Meeting.-Tramways Board advised the sale of surplus tramway steel cable (breaking strength of which was 40 tons) for sale at £3 per ton. Referred to Gisborne Progress Association in view of their intention to erect a railing around the Island oval.

Gisborne Gazette 7 May 1926

Obituary.-With the death of Mr. Henry Kettle, which took place on the 6th at the residence of his son-in-law Mr. J. Lambe, the last link with the very early days of Gisborne has been severed. An entry in Mr. Kettle’s family Bible showed that he was “the son of Mr. Henry Kettle, in the county of Bourke N.S.W.” born on 14th of July 1838. In those far back days the present county of Bourke was in New South Wales. The Port Phillip District had not been granted separation... He remembered Fawkner’s orchard at Pascoe Vale, the black troopers being stationed at Gisborne, a detachment of 40th Regiment stationed at Gisborne for a considerable time, the building of the Old Mount Macedon hotel, now the residence of Mr. Duncan Macpherson, Black Forest sticking-up cases and many floods in Gisborne.

Gisborne Gazette 14 May 1926

Between Gisborne and Woodend.-Motorists using the Bendigo road between Gisborne and Woodend have to be careful on reaching the top of the New Gisborne hill, just beyond Gisborne. The Country Roads Board, owing to repairs, has closed the road between the New Gisborne road and the Cattle Arch-road for a distance of nearly two miles. At that part where Ferrier-road joins the Bendigo-road, there is a dangerous motor trap or bog hole from which many cars have already had to be pulled by a traction engine or horses. To prevent accidents a watchman should be stationed there to give motorists warning.

The Age 21 May 1926

Hugh Victor McKay, O.B.E., passes on.Death at Rupertswood. After an illness lasting over 12 months, death has sent to the great beyond one of Australia’s big men in the late Hugh V. McKay at the comparatively early age of 61 years. The passing of Mr. McKay has closed one of the Commonwealth’s most interesting business romances, for as founder and head of the great Sunshine Harvester Works, he built up the largest harvester manufacturing business in the Southern hemisphere.

WHAT'S ON

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 7.30pm & Thurs 9.30am Macedon Com munity 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 CARERS GROUP (Mac Ranges) 2nd & 4th Thurs, 1pm Woodend RSL Cherry 5420 7132 (Note: 4th Thurs carers only)

CHAMBER POETS 2nd Saturday of month,1pm Woodend RSL COMMUNITY GARDEN Wed 9.30am Church of Christ (Facebook for updates)

CROCHET & CONVERSATIONS 1st Mon 2.30pm Gisborne Library

CROQUET CLUB Mon, Wed & Sat AM Dixon Field Terry, 0493 463 357

CWA GISBORNE 2nd Monday 10am Gis Secondary College

CWA MACEDON 3rd Tues 1pm & 7pm 5426 2210 662 Mt Macedon Rd

DALY RESERVE WORKING BEE 2nd Tues 9.30am Scout Hall, Daly Res dalynaturereserve@gmail.com

EUCRE Tues 7.15pm St Brigid’s Hall Janice, 0408 332 624

FILM SOCIETY 2nd Wed Norma Richardson Hall, Woodend 0402 299 153 or 0407 012 140 FLY FISHING CLUB 4th Wed 7.30pm MRFEC Gisborne info@calderflyfishing.com.au

FRIENDS of JACKSONS CREEK working bees 3rd Sun 10-noon

GARDEN CLUB 2nd Wed various venues Edwina, 0407 576 545

GENEALOGY GROUP 4th Thurs 7.30 Family Hist Rm, Library GIRL GUIDES Thursdays 5pm Gis Scout Hall

GISBORNE SINGERS Wed 7.30pm Gisborne Uniting Church

HISTORICAL SOCIETY open Wed 10am-4pm Court House

LANDCARE: Gisborne Landcare working bee every 4th Sat, venue to be confirmed each month, gisbornelandcare@gmail.com

LIBRARY: TODDLERS’ STORY TIME 10.30am Mon, Wed, Thurs; BABIES GROUP Fri 10.30am 5428 3962

LIONS CLUB (Gisb) 1st Thurs of month, 7.30pm 247 Station Rd

MARTIAL ARTS Thurs from 6pm St Brigid’s Hall; gisborne@junseikan.com.au

Baringo Film Club

MASONIC LODGE 2nd Thurs 7pm Masonic Hall Aitken St

MASTERS AFL Wed 6.30pm all year round Sankey Reserve

OBEDIENCE DOG CLUB Sun 9am Riddell Rec Res macedonrangesdogclub.org.au

PARKRUN Dixon Field every Sat 8am start at pavilion Tom 0408 691 826

PETANQUE 2nd & 4th Sat 10am behind Ampol service station, Station Rd, Gisborne 0439 887 178

PHOENIX ART & CRAFTS 1st Thursday phoenixmrac.com

PHOTOGRAPHIC SOC 1st & 2nd Mon 7pm Jubilee Hall, Macedon. macedon-ranges-photography.org.au

PICKLEBALL Monday 6.30pm & Wed 10.15am, Macedon Community Centre, macedonrangesbadminton@gmail.com or David 0419 589 425

POETRY Chamber Poets 2nd Sat 1pm-4pm RSL Woodend

PONY CLUB Bullengarook 1st Sunday Rec Reserve

PONY CLUB Gisborne 1st Sunday Robertson Reserve

PROBUS 1st Thurs 10am Gary 0458 841 047 Gisborne Community Centre hall

RAMBLERS Fridays 9.15am meet Tennis Club Dixon Field

ROTARY CLUB Gisborne 1st & 3rd Tues 7pm Telegraph Hotel (email gisbornerotary@gmail.com for confirmation of venue)

RUNNING GROUP Tues & Thurs 9am, 6pm, Sun 8am Gisborne Aquatic Centre Craig 0417 775 785

RSL Gis Bowling Club For dates & times contact secretary, admin@gisbornersl.com.au or call 0487 278 681

SENIOR CITS (Macedon) Tues 11am Tony Clarke Res macedonseniors@gmail.com

SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCERS Thurs 1-3 Buffalo Stadium Woodend, Lynne 0417 331 439

SPINNERS & FIBRE GROUP Wed 12.30 Rec Reserve, Bullengarook. Kerrie 0406 719 557

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 www.gisbornethunder.org

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

Macedon Ranges