Kyneton’sBradVereker made his TyrepowerV8SuperUtesdebut at Darwin last year and has joined
AmyHume
Kyneton'sBradVereker is looking to the Bathurst 1000 weekend on October 9-12 with enthusiasm as part of the Tyrepower V8 SuperUteSeries.
Verekermadehis TyrepowerV8SuperUtesdebut at Darwin last year and has joined Western SydneyMotorsport fora full 2025 series.
TheOctober 9-12 Bathurst 1000 weekend will mark his firsttime racing at Bathurst.
"Aspossibly the only driver in my series thathasn’traced therebefore, Ineedto be realisticand work up into it over the
weekend,"Vereker told the Express
"Bathurst is atrack thatrequires huge commitmentand alot of blind corners so yourely on muscle memory as well as hitting your marks across the topofthe mountain to be fast.
"The placecan bite hardsoIneedto respect it and do alot of work over the weekend to be competitive."
He'll be behind the wheel of aToyota Hilux V8 SuperUte: ChevroletLS3 powered Toyota Hilux, which he describes as "very differenttoyour road-going ute"
Some of Vereker'shighlights from the series so farinclude racing on astreet circuit forthe firsttimeatTownsville and
achieving his best result of sixth. He has also enjoyedthe rangeofcircuits.
"AsI'vedone the whole series in 2025, I'vebeen able to learn the carsand what youhavetodotoget the mostout of them to be fast, which has been fun,"Vereker said.
"Wedoahugeamount of prep work for every track we visitwhich, this year,have been all newtracks.
"A lotofwatching in-car footage, taking notestoget allyou brakemarkers, gear positions, lines and finding anylittle tricks to the tracks thatmay help."
Of course, he has been backed by huge support from home including local business-
es thathavebeenpart of his racing journey formanyyears. HisCooka Club membership has also reached morethan 40.
Verekerhas secureda major sponsor forthe last tworounds at Bathurst and Sandown: the large national transport and logisticscompanyJWL logistics. He also has major local support from Prendergast earthmoving forBathurst which have been behind him rightfromthe start.
Anyone interested in being asponsor can contact Brad via0447 920 155.
Allraces and qualifyingcan be viewed liveonFox Sports and Kayo from Thursday lunchtime to Sundayaswell as some on Channel 7overthe weekend.
Western SydneyMotorsport fora full 2025 series.
No plan to reopen MYJC
Rumours that the decommissioned Malmsbury Youth JusticeCentremay be reopened to houseoffendershavebeen laid to rest.
ADepartmentofJusticeand Community Safety spokesperson said the StateBudget provided funding for88rooms to open across the Cherry Creekand Parkville youth justicefacilities and afurther 320 new frontline and operational supportroles to be recruited by theend of theyear.
"This year’sbudget provided $727 million to ramp up capacityinVictoria's youth justiceand corrections systems to make sure they’reready forincreased demand," the spokesperson said.
"The futureuse of theMalmsbury site is being determined through the usual process. While thatprocess is underway, we aremaintaining the site and keeping it secure."
Carersupport
As part of National CarersWeek, carers of neurodivergent children areinvited to aspecial gathering in KynetononSunday October 12, proudly sponsored by Carers Victoria.
Theevent will be led by Samantha Wittenberg, empowerment coach and parent of an autistic daughter. It offers carersa warm, inclusivespacetopause, connect and feel valued. Theday will featureanutritiousand delicious lunch, astorytelling and sharing circle and anatureconnectionwalk.
“Caring can be overwhelming and lonely at times, but when we come together, we’re reminded thatwe’re notalone,”Samantha said.
TheKynetonevent is free forcarers and spaces arelimited. It will be held from 11.30am to 3.30pm on SundayOctober 12 at theRed Brick Hall, 23 Yaldwyn Street West Kyneton.
To register,email samantha.wittenberg@ gmail.com or register at:www.eventbrite com/e/free-event-for-national-carersweek-tickets-1633129256569
Fostering connections
Lisa Dennis
With agrowing need forfoster carers and adiverse group of children needing care, therehas neverbeen abettertime forpeople from allwalks of lifetobecome carers.
During Foster CareWeek(September 14-20) the Centre forExcellenceinChild and Family Welfareand Victoria’s state-wide foster carerecruitmentservice, Fostering Connections, celebrated and highlightedthe importanceoffoster carersand thepositive impact they had on the lives of children and young people.
This year’stheme ‘Time to Care’ celebrated the valuable time that foster carers dedicatedtosupporting children and young people and howmuch each and every oneof those moments matter
During the week-long celebration, the Express caughtupwith local foster carer
Carol McMurtrie to chat about the vital role of foster carersinsupporting children and young people in ourlocal community
Caring forothersissecond nature to Carol. Long before herown children were born, Carol becamea foster carer and spent the past 23 yearslooking afterkids who needed asafeplacetostay.
"I did alot of babysitting and nannywork when Iwas younger and considered becoming asocial worker," Carol said.
"AsIgot olderI had alwaysthoughtabout becoming afoster carer.One dayI was watching television and an advert came on forMackillop Family Services and Ijust made the call."
Carol said she took on the careofher first full-time childbeforeshe had even married and welcomed her ownchildren.
"I think the training and supports really prepared me well forthe caring role and has made me abettermothertomyown children,"she said
Carol has offeredaloving and safe home to about 20 children over thepast two decades forming life-long relationshipsand
Carol’sfarminthe Castlemaine region has provided awelcome havenfor anumberof children overthe years.
connections withmanyofthese young people and their families.
"I liketooffer long-term caretoprovide children with the stability theyneed, but thereare so manyoptions when it comes to foster care,"she said
"You can offeremergency respitefor one nighttochildren in need, youcan offer respitecaretogivefamilies abreak and help them better carefor their children or young people, or youcan provide respite carefor existing foster carersand givethem achancetohaveabreak, fresh and reset to be able to better support thechildren in their care.
"Then, of course, youcan opttobe a long-term carer likemyself
"All yourequireisa spareroom and the time andenergytogivethese kids the love and support theyneed.
"You can be married or single or work full-timeorpart-time –thereisplenty of
support and training in place to guide you on the journey.
"Most recently I'vedonecourses on ASD, ADHD and school truancy –thereare always opportunities to furtheryour training."
Playing apartin supporting afamily to gettheir livesback on trackisone of the mostrewarding parts of foster carefor Carol.
"It'swonderful when youcan maintain contact with the kids when theyreturn home and youform arelationship with parents basedon trustand support so they knowtheycan reach out to youwith any questions theyhaveorseek advice,"she said.
"Atthe end of theday,wehavethe kids' best interestsatheart."
People interested in becoming afoster carer can call Fostering Connections on 1800 013 088 or visit fosteringconnections. com.au formoreinformation andtoapply
Artefactstobeexamined in workshop
BayntonbrothersKnoxand AriDettmann recently found whattheythoughtwas an Aboriginal greenstone axehead by aroadway at apropertyinGlenhope and will soon have the answer
"I’m stunned to hold in my hand atool thatwas used maybe 200 yearsago,ormaybe morethan 10,000 years ago,"Knoxsaid.
He wantstolearn moreabout whether this is an authentic Taungurung artefact and whether it is likely thatitwas quarried at MountWilliam greenstone quarry near Lancefield. Soon he will have an opportunitytoget answersto queries.
BayntonSidonia Landcaregroup, and itssub-group,the FirstNations’Learnings group, arehosting aTaungurung Cultural HeritageWorkshop on Friday, October 17.
Theworkshop eventatthe BayntonHall will begin with asmoking ceremonyat10.30am, and conclude at 1.30pm
In the workshop, participants will:
*learn the stories of Taungurung country,which is an ancientcultural landscapeshaped by deep, ongoing relations between people and place
*exploreTaungurung values, culturalheritageand sustainable land managementknowledge
*learn howtoidentify cultural heritageontheir properties, to understand its significanceand howtocarefor and report it.
Participants arewelcometobring items foridentification, as Knoxplans to do.
Taungurung elder,Uncle Shane Monk, said nothing would be taken.
"Wewould just liketodocumentany artefacts found in the area,"hesaid.
"Wewanttodispel anymyths or concerns thatlandholdersmay have about Taungurung peopleand their responsibilities and rights associatedwith their Country."
Theaim of the workshop is to build knowledgeand confidencetosupport thepreservation of Taungurung CultureonCountry and to create shared pride in it
Alightlunch will be provided. Register by texting Clareon0423 294 430 with full nameand phone number,which districtyou livein and dietary constraints. Earlyregistrations areencouraged.
People mayonlyattendoncetheyhaveaconfirmed placein the workshop. Agold coin donation is welcomed.
Scan heretodonate to the
Publictoiletthefts costly
AmyHume
Vandals stealing copper wireforcedclosure of fivepublic toilets across the Macedon Ranges last week as another tourist-centric toiletwas closed overlease concerns.
Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil reported closureoftoilets at Sankey Reserve(Gisborne), Ross Watt Reserve(NewGisborne), StanleyPark (Macedon), Campaspe Park (Woodend) and Kyneton Botanic Gardens following significantvandalism overnight last Tuesday. Copper waterpipes were stolen from the sites, which resulted in the mains watersupply being cut off.
Council'sdirector of assets and operations, DomTestoni, said the vandalism and theft was"hugely disappointing" and costly
"Not only willtheyresult in unnecessary costs to council, but theyforcedthe closureofvaluable public services while repairs arecarried out,"hesaid.
"Weswiftly engaged contractorstoassess the damageand repairsneeded. Most of the toilets were able to be fixed and reopened within afew days.We’re yetunsureofexpectedcosts, but it could potentially run into the thousands of dollars."
It is notthe first timepublic toilets have been vandalised, with residents reportingseveral recent incidents at KynetonMechanics Reserve'spublic toilets.
"Broadly,vandalism in publictoilets has remained apersistent issue in recent years, withincidents occurring, on average, every twoweeksand varying in severity.Generally,toilets locatedwithin the centre of townships arethe most vulnerable,"MrTestoni said.
PIPER STREET TOILET CLOSURE
In the same week of the vandalism, the council announced the closureoftoilets on the corner of Piper and Ebden streets Kyneton, nearbythe former Duck Duck Gooseand Larder
Thetoilets have long served the busyPiper Street that is a tourist attraction forshopping and dining opportunities, butthe council said thecost to keep them open had increased.
Nowbusiness ownersand residents arecalling forthe council to justify its actions and reconsider the move
Piper Street business owner Donna Carlson said she was baffled by the council'sdecision that"completely overlooks the needs of tourists and visitorstothe town".
"I think it is imperativetorenegotiate the terms withthe owner," she said.
ArtOnPiper'sElizabeth Harvey said the toiletclosurecontravened council'sPublic Toiletand Barbecue Strategy by not
prioritising facilities at tourist attractions and high-activity areas.
Shesaidremovalcriteria forthe toilets were also notmet
"This facility serves exactly the type of high-traffic commercial/ tourist location thatthe strategy identifies as requiring public toilet provision,"she said.
Mr Testoni acknowledged disappointmentoverthe council's decision to theclose the Piper Street toilets but said it "was a decision nottaken lightly"
He explained thepublic toiletarrangementfor Piper Street was uniqueand the arrangementwas no longer sustainable due to cost increases.
"In2006, when council sold the Piper Street site, aclausewas negotiatedfor council to lease back and maintain thetoilets for public use, and recurring lease agreements have been in place sincethis time,"hesaid.
"However, withthe lease feecost to council proposed to significantly increase, it means thatcouncil continuing to lease the toilets wasnolongersustainable. This lease wasunder consideration prior to theadjoining business suddenly closing, which the council wasmadeaware of earlier this year."
Mr Testoni said consideration wasgiven to best useofratepayer funds and availability of fivealternativepublic toilets nearby. Toilets within 500 metres arelocatedatHuttonStreetand at KynetonShowgrounds. He said Kyneton’sHuttonStreetpublic toilets –one of severalwithin 500 metres of the former Piper Street toilets –would soon benefit from a$270,000 upgrade as part of abuildingrenewalprogram.
Fatalcrash at Woodend
Adriver waskilled in asingle-vehicle crash in Woodend early last Saturdaymorning. It’s believedthe car wastravelling on Donalds Road when it rolled overabout 12.30am. Thedriverand sole occupant, a53-year-old Woodend man, died at the scene. Theexact circumstances of the crash arebeing investigated. Anyone who witnessed the incident, with footageorany information is urgedtocontact Crime Stopperson1800 333 000 or submit aconfidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
Therehavebeen215 lives lost on roadsthisyear, up from 208 lives lost on roadsthistime last year
PORK 'Otway' Small Roasts $10.99kg (legs &shoulders)
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Residents have reported severalrecentincidents at KynetonMechanics Reserve'spublictoilets.
Dhaliwal
Fernando
Turnbull
Smith Dr Tran Dr Al Isreal
Kin
Harper
‘Growing old together’
Morgan Reinwald
Lina and JoeMorabitohaveoperated their business RomseyHair Design since1983 and have seen every trend come and go
"The short back and sides arealwayspopular.Except when the Beatles came along,"Lina said.
Fora while theywerestyling perms,and perhaps, theyare theonlybusiness in the region who can still frizz hair this way. Butunfortunately,those wanting to don such curlsmust look elsewhere.
Lina and Joeclosedtheir doorsfor one final time last Fridayafter 42 yearsinbusiness. Andina full circle moment, it concluded the exactsame wayitbegan: cutting mullets
"Billy-RayCyrus,hewas oneofthe first to have a mullet,"Joe said.
Over morethan four decades of operation, Joeand Lina have cut and styled thehair of similar household names, sports stars, actorsand TV presenters.However,theywon't admit whose hair they'vecut –it's
part of the trade.
"[Wewere] aone-stop shop, people would come infor ahaircut and discuss their problems. We'rea confidante," Lina said.
"Wecannotsay."
Butwhattheycan say, reflecting on their time spent with apairofscissorsinhand, is that"we'veseen alot change,"according to Joe.
Their day-to-dayoperations last week were afar cry from when theybegan. They were no longer driving a Valianttowork each day, cleaning ash traysfor women receiving ablowout,oroperating from their Macedon store, having movedafter "everything burntdown" in the BlackSaturdaybushfires.
Lina said one aspect neverchanged though, and thatwas "the three generations of loyalcustomers".
"When we started, we cut thehair of schoolchildren, then theyhad children, and nowwecut their grandchildren's hair.We've grownold together "I'velovedevery aspect of it. It's been awonderful 42 years."
Council adoptstwo important plansfor 2025-2029
Mount Alexander ShireCouncillorsadopted twoimportant plansatthe September Meeting of Council:CouncilPlan 2025-2029 andMunicipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2025-2029
TheCouncil Plan will guideCouncil’sstrategic direction and prioritiesfor the next four years.Itwas informedby extensivecommunity consultation whereCouncil asked the community whatmatters to themnow andintothe future
TheMunicipal Public Health and WellbeingPlanoutlines what Council will do in partnership with government, health and communityserviceorganisationstoprotect, promote andimprove community health and wellbeingacrossthe shire.
Both plans areavailable online at mountalexander.vic.gov.au.
Working together forahealthy, connected shire mountalexander.vic.gov.au (03) 5471 1700
Best in Aus
Gisborne Post Officehas been crowned the best in Australia and beatenmorethan4000 branches across the country at the Australia Post Awards Night.
Gisborne Post Officemanager JoeVellaacceptedthe awardlast Wednesdaynightonbehalf of his team.Hetold the Express nothing wasevertoo difficult forhim and his staff to handle.
"A post officeinany small town is the hubofa community.It'sa placewhereeveryone needs to go," Joesaid.
"Weare aunique postoffice. We look afterthe community," he continued.
"[But]Tobethe best in Australia is just an incredibleachievement. I'm just blown away."
Australia Post executivegeneral manager Josh Bannister presented the awardand made particular mention of Joeinastatement to the Express
"Joe’s dedication to providing an outstanding customer experienceand his commitmenttoour customersiswhatmakes him a valued partofthe community," he said.
Upskillwith Lifeline
Lifeline Loddon Mallee invites youtoregister to participate in an upcoming ASIST accredited workshop in Kyneton.
These places arefully funded, so thereisno cost to attend.
TheASIST workshop will be offeredon October 22 and 23. This is atwo-day in-person workshop featuring powerful audiovisuals, discussions and simulations. Youwill also consider how personal and community attitudes about suicide affect someone’s openness to seek help and your ability to provide it.
This workshop will increase your willingness, confidenceand capacitytoprovide suicide first aid.
To register forthe workshop visit asist-workshop-kyneton.raiselysite.com
Ateacher’s
first
Malmsbury residentand Braemar Collegeteacher,Stuart Orr, has joined the ranksofthe Macedon Ranges' authorsafter he recently published his first novel, APiper at theGates Theyoung adult fictionfits into the sciencefiction adventuregenre, and is acoming-of-agenovelabout love, rebellion, and the music thatfrees us. Orrcurrently teachescareer Literatureand Philosophyand cuthis teeth writing forMelbourne’s independent theatrescene. Hissolo shows have appeared at TheMalthouse Theatre and La Mama Courthouse. More details about his book can be found online at piperatthegates.carrd.co
We have moved!
Our Melbourne PathologyKyneton branch has anew home. Great facilities, bigger and better parking for patients and the same friendly and experienced collectors
Find us at 165Mollison St,Kyneton Corner of Yaldwyn and Mollison Sts Open Monday -Friday, 8am –4pm
the Kynetoncommunity
JoeVella (R) accepting the awardfromJoshBannister (L) at the at the AusPostAwardsNight
An ambitiousnew project aimed at encouraging centralVictorians to 'electrify' their homes wasofficially launched at Castlemaine CommunityHouse on Wednesday.
The'ElectrifyLoddon Mallee Project', backed with $110,000 from thestate government, will support MountAlexander Sustainability Group and BendigoSustainability Group to work withcouncils and groupsacross the region to acceleratethe uptakeofelectrification.
In particular,the groupshopetoencouragethose who have rooftopsolar to take the next step and add abattery
Thecommunityfocused approach aims to ensure even morehouseholds and businesses makethe switch to cleaner, cheaper, saferenergy
Sustainability Victoria director of customersand partnerships Gwyneth Elsum said the CommunityElectrification EngagementProgram wasput forwardbySustainability Victoria and the MountAlexander Sustainability Group
"Incollaboration with theBendigoSustainabilityGroup and the Sustainability Network Loddon Mallee, we were successful in securing funding forour project: Electrify Loddon Mallee –PowerTogether," she said.
MountAlexander Sustainability Group projectand engagementcoordinatorKerrily Jennings said when they designed this project, they had aclear vision.
"This is forall households across our region to feel confidentand equipped to plan and implementtheir transition to full home electrification. With afocus on reducing energy use, reducing costs, and cutting emissions,"she said.
"But we also recognise that'cost' means differentthings to differentpeople: for sustainability groups, cost is about emissions —the cost of fossil fuel energy on our
planetand systems.
"For households, it’soften about the cost of living and day-to-daybills.
"And there’sanother layer: the cost on health and mental health. Notbeing able to afford heating in winterorcooling in summer can be devastating. Andthe stress of feeling powerless, without theenergy literacy to even startplanning, is aheavy burden.
"So, we wanted to design aproject that works with equity across the whole region —meeting people wherethey’reat, in many differentways, and formanydifferent reasons."
TheElectrify Loddon Mallee –Power Together project has threemain parts:Small GrantsProgram
Grantsof$1000–$2000 forlocal events thatconnect communities with home electrification. Events will be spread across all LGAs they’reworking with. Focus on engaging with diverse groups: households still on gas, FirstNations communities, people with lowenergy literacy,and more.Resource Creation
Developmentofa video and supporting resources. These will back up the events andthe widerproject.BrightSparks Program
Aprogram to upskill local volunteers. They’ll be trained in the toolsand resources available forVictorians such as SECHome Planner; SolarVictoria rebates; Victorian Energy Upgrades; and reading and understanding energy bills.
"Our BrightSparks will be embedded in communities, ready to help people to understand their bills, find options formaking changes and plan their transition to home electrification. In short: they’ll be our go-to local champions,"Kerrily said.
BendigoFederal MP Lisa Chesterssaid Wednesday'slaunchcoincided witharenewedcommitmentbythe federal govern-
Seeking Indianconnection
TheVictorian Governmentisseeking to identify aleading Indian community organisation to establish acommunitycentreinMelbourne’s west. If asuitable organisation can be identified, they will be offeredupto$2.4 million from thestate governmenttowards the infrastructurecosts of their proposed project.
Theaim of the hub is to create aspacefor the Indian-Victorian population to have greaterconnection and social belonging. TheMacedon Ranges wasn't an eligible region for the grantinitially,howeverthe local governmentboundaries have sincebeen extended. According to the2021 census, therewere167 people born in India living in the Macedon Ranges.
Sustainability Victoria Director of Customers&Partnerships Gwyneth Elsum, BendigoFederal MP LisaChesters, City of GreaterBendigomayor AndreaMetcalf,BendigoSustainability Group President Anjum Chaudhry,MountAlexander Sustainability Group Project and EngagementCoordinator Kerrily Jennings, andBendigoWest StateMPMaree Edwardsare pictured at Wednesday’slaunch.
ment to act on climate change.
"Federal Labor has setour 2035target at arangeof62-70 per cent on 2005 emissions as per the Paris Agreement. To some it will be ambitious and to othersit's notenough. Butour governmenthas got apathway forhow we can achieve it by working together," Ms Chesterssaid.
"Itisone-in-all-in. Therewill be more funding to help industries decarbonise and scale up renewable energy,particularly in manufacturing. We have abig footprint in centralVictoria.
"Thereismorefunding forthe Clean Energy FinanceCorporation to drivedown pressureonelectricity prices.
"But thebig one forour part of the world is morefunding forkerbside and fast EV charging stations across our regions,
and to complementwhatweare doing herewith $85 million forframeworks and tools to help households and businesses understand and improve their energy performance.
"This project is agreat firststepand recognises wherecommunities areat. Across MountAlexander thereisa high awareness and ahigh engagementonthe need to tackle climatechangeand the benefits of solar and electrification butwe have work to do around the north of the Bendigoelectorateand working with our local councils to help engagepeopleat grassroots, debunk myths around solar and batteries, renewable energy and encouragepeopletoconsider electrification. It complements whatweare doing at the federal level,"MsChesterssaid.
Bendigotohost ‘Creativerse’ kids fest
Abrand-newchildren’s festival is coming to Bendigo– and it’sset to take over theUlumbarraTheatre precinct with an explosion of creativity,curiosityand immersiveplayonSaturdayOctober 11
'The Creativerse'presentedbyArena TheatreCompany, will invitechildren aged 3to12and their familiesfrom across the local region to enteranexciting universe of art, technology and playful storytelling.
Thefestival will showcase amyriad of local artstalentfromthe MountAlexander and Macedon Ranges region including TheGardeners(pictured).
Supported by the Australian Government’sFestivals Australia programand the City of GreaterBendigo’sPartnering for ImpactGrant,thisvibrantone-dayfestival features free and ticketedevents, immersiveinstallations, liveperformances, and creativezones wherekids arethe artists, makersand inventors.
"We’re notjust inviting kids to watch –we’re inviting them to participate and play!" Debrasaid
“We’re excited to showcase amazing artists —bothfromaround the world and righthereinour region —for aday of fund and creativity the whole family can enjoy."
Festival highlights will include:
•PoliteMammals –A totally wild varietyshowthe whole family can enjoy.
•Finnegan TheFart Detective– The funniest whodunit ever heard, seen and smelled!
•Kiki and Zuki –This enchanting
shadowpuppetshowexplores whatit means to belong in twoworlds.
•Somone in the Dark –Animmersive adventuretofacefearsand discover bravery in the wild.
•FreeActivities across the day: workshops, storytelling, pop-upperformances, digital projections, 3D AR –all drivenby
Scan the QR code or visit shape.mountalexander.vic.gov.au to vote
the young participants. Federal Member forBendigoLisa ChestersMPwelcomed theinitiative.
"The Creativerse showcases the vibrantcreativecommunityinour region and gives children the chancetomake art, notjust watch it. It’s exciting, playful and uniquely Bendigo,"MsChesterssaid.
TheCreativerse aims to become a fixtureonthe regional festival calendar, celebrating innovation, communityand creativity in all its forms. Theevent kicks offat10am and runs through until 4pm at the UlumbarraTheatre precinct,Bendigo. Visit www.thecreativerse.org.au for tickets and moreinformation.
Honouring police officers
National Police RemembranceDay is observed on Monday, September 29.
Theday coincides with Victoria's Blue Ribbon Day andisdedicated to honouring police officerswho have died in the line of duty.
Thecommunity looks to its policeforce to protect it and to keep it safe.It’ssomething thatcan all tooeasily be taken forgranted.
Recent andongoing events inregional
Victoria highlighthow dangerous police work can be.
Victoria Police invites the communityto pause and paytribute on National Police RemembranceDay
Readerscan support thefamilies of the victims of the Porepunkah shootings who were killed in the line of duty by donating to www.policelegacyvic.org.au
‘The Gardeners’– presentedbyThings of Foam and Wood Kyneton– will be among the talenttofeatureatThe Creativerse. Photo: Chloe Smith
Harcourt Holden Holde helps Variety Club Clu
Alocal 1967Holden, Car Number 3453 (Harcourt’spostcode), recently journeyed through theGreat Australian Outback, successfully raising $7045 forthe Variety Club Charity
Gary Jamieson and CliffOwen(aka The Blacksmiths)travelled in a58-year-old Holden, which waspreparedspecifically for the 4800km trek, which largely consisted of dirt roadsand tracks.
Aftera presentation of carsonthe forecourt at CrownCasino on August 8, the Harcourt duo,joined by the Victorian entourage, headed to Hamilton foravery frosty and cold send-off and the Variety’s first grantpresentation to Hamilton North Primary School.
Gary told the Express thatthe cars wound their waythrough the dusty Wimmeraroads and tracks to arriveatAdelaide, along withVarietyBash events from all other Australian states.
"Itwas the 50-year National Bash Celebration and it wasfullofcolourfulcostumes, big laughs, and the perfect launch for10epic days on theroad,"hesaid.
Aftersome emergency work into the late hoursofFridaynight, on the brakes of the trusty 1967 Holden, 'The Blacksmiths' and the Victorian bash left Adelaide Saturdaymorning, winding its waythrough the Barossa Valleytospend Saturdaynight at RawnsleyPark Station in the Flinders Ranges.
Following an interesting and picturesque trek through the FlindersRanges, the
115-vehicle Bash convoy rolled into Maree, wheretheytook over themain streetofthe town fora Sundaynightcelebration.
An earlystart along the Oodnadatta Track to Williams Creek forlunchand Coober Pedy,overnightwherethe local Greek Association provided atraditional Greek feast. Coober Pedy to AliceSprings via the breathtaking PaintedDesert wasone of the roughest treks during the event.
Atwo-day rest break wasneeded for most crewstorepair their carsfor the next stages.
Gary said thatsearching fora brake powerbooster fora 58-year-old Holden provedabridgetoo farinAliceSprings.
"So, with some improvisation and greatassistancefromlocal mechanics, we managed to keep the car on the road,"hesaid.
Leaving AliceSprings Thursdaymorning, the bash wound its waytoTennantCreek wherethe local primary school wasthe centrepiecebeforeFridaymorning'sdeparture to Mataranka.
Saturdayprovidedinteresting travel
to Adelaide River, then travelling through Litchfield National Park to thefinish in Darwin on Sundaynight.
Andthe trusty 1967 Holden HR made the return journeytoHarcourt in fivedays.
The2025 Victorian Variety Bash raised a totalof$1.83 million dollarstobeallocated through grants to needy and disadvantaged children.
In 2024, theVariety Club of Victoria distributed$1,290,122 to help 17,010 Victorian Children. TheVariety Bash is asignificant contributor to the funds raised.
ASafeSpace for Everyone
Gary Jamieson and Cliff Owen (aka The Blacksmiths) at the finish line overlooking the Darwin Harbour
Lastchance to comment
Just one week remains forfeedback on Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil's Master Planfor the Woodend Racecourse Reserve.
Developmentofa full size rectangular pitch forsoccer and rugby, anew Woodend Men’sShed, relocation of equestrian clubs and refurbishing existing assets areall ideas thathavebeen explored forthe site.
Thereserveishome to Buffalo Stadium and currently plays host to manyactivities and user groupsincluding the Woodend Pony Club, Riddells Creek Adult RidersClub, Hanging Rock and Woodend Petanque Club, Woodend Cricket Club,Woodend Junior Football NetballClub, Woodend Hesket Football Netball Club and Woodend Eagles SoccerClub
Initial consultation was undertaken withkey user groups and thecommunityin early-mid 2023 to better understand currentusage and futureneeds, including via an online survey which received morethan 60 responses.
Adetailed issues and opportunities paper forthe Woodend Racecourse Reservewentout forcommunity consultation in AugustSeptember 2024, to help inform the draftmaster plan.
Feedback closes September 28. To view the plan and provide input, visit: yoursay. mrsc.vic.gov.au/WRRMP
AutumnFestival to go big
TheVisitor Economyteam at Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil has unveiled the 2026 Macedon Ranges AutumnFestival poster with artwork by Chris 'Roy'Taylor
Preparations arealready well under way forthe biggest and best Macedon Ranges AutumnFestival yet– highlighting amonth-long celebration across nine villages on April 1-30.
Therelease of the 2026 poster coincides with acall out to shire-based hospitality businesses to submit their pastry-inspired menu items forthe chancetobeincludedin Australia’s Biggest Pieand Tart Trail.
ThePie and Tart Trail will be promoted nationally as part of broader marketing forthe 2026 Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival.
Thereimagined Tipple Trail will also return for2026, highlighting seasonal signature beveragesathospitalityvenues, including vineyards, distilleries,wine bars, regional pubs, restaurantsand cafes.
"Atits core,the festival brings all the people from Melbourne into the Ranges and this deliversvalue forlocal businesses,"said Mark James, Kyneton Food Collective.
Venues can submit their ideas forthe Pieand Tart Trail, and/or the Tipple TrailbySeptember 30 to:bit. ly/2026AutumnFoodDrinkTrails
Thoseplanning to run tourismevents from April 1toApril30 arealsoencouraged to contact festival organisersatcouncil to exploreopportunities to be featured within the Autumn Festival's full month calendar of activity.
Eventscan include open gardens, markets, exhibitions, workshops, tours, guided walks, exclusivefoodie degustation nights, launches, whole of town shopping nights, Easter/ school holidayactivities
Contactmacedonrangesautumnfestival@ mrsc.vic.gov.autosee howyourbusiness or eventcan take part within the 2026 festival
Pictured from left: TheOld Auction House’sRhainDiPilla, KynetonFoodCollective presidentand Donkey Kyneton’s Mark James, illustrator and posterdesigner Chris ‘Roy’Taylor,KynetonChristmasCollective’s AndieWebster,and Botanik Kyneton’sGeorge Swallow.
Explorethe tramways workshop
BendigoTramwayshas officially launched the DepotDiscovery Tour,giving visitorsbehind-the-scenes access to Australia’s oldest operating tram depotand theworld-renowned BendigoTramways Workshop.
Operating every Saturdayand Sunday, visitors will discoverthat lost trades arestill in use todayand come to appreciate the artistry of the skilled craftsmen who have meticulouslybuilt and restored each tram within BendigoTramways’ iconic fleet
You’ll be left captivated by the major restoration projects that arecompletedinBendigoand see firsthand about 50 historic and modern daytrams housed in BendigoTramwaysDepot. From overhauling Melbourne’s iconic fleetofCity Circle trams, to repurposing trams into classrooms, cafes, accommodation, and morerecently, picnic sheltersfor Parks Victoria.
“We’re extremely proud of the work we do within the Bendigo Tramways Workshop, and we encouragevisitorstocome and see the unique work thatishappening firsthand,”said James Reade, CEO, BendigoHeritage.
TheDepotDiscovery Tour will also expand visitors’ understanding of the culturalimportanceofBendigoTramways, diveinto historical anecdotesand uncovercommunity legends as the guides sharecaptivating talesabout thesignificantrole BendigoTramways has playedinshaping our community.
“Fromtrams that operated as public transport,totrams that carried royaltyand survived twoworld wars,you’ll become immersed in the richhistory of our fleet,”James said. Depottour guide DarcyBairdjoined BendigoHeritageback in 2022 and has held avarietyofkey roles within the organisation overthe years. From initially guiding visitorsthrough theunderground tunnels of the group’s CentralDeborah Gold Mine –a beaming lightinthe history of Victoria’s rich goldrush history –Darcyhas worked across manyfacetsofthe business.He'sa walking, talking history guide to everything from the centralVictorian goldrush days to therichand vibranthistory of Bendigo’strams When the opportunityarose to move across to theBendigo Tramways –another arm of the BendigoHeritagegroup –he jumped at the chance. Thehistoric trams areaniconic partof Bendigo’srich history,and Darcyisproud to playa keyrole in their continued operation.
Darcyhelps showcase aremarkable fleetofheritagetrams that still run as theydid during the gold rush era, carrying stories of the past into the presentand is nowthe group’s official DepotTour Guide.
DepotDiscovery Toursoperate every Saturday and Sundayat 10.30am and 12.30pm
Pre-booking is recommended via bendigotramways.com
Take control of your health today
The GPspracticing at ourclinic arehighly trained and supported by ateam of friendly receptionistsand experienced nurses.
BendigoTramwaysisgiving visitors behind-the-scenes access to Australia’s oldest operating tram depot.
Castlemaine's iconic foundry Flowserve TKL is turning 150 yearsold
To commemoratethis fantastic achievement, the local foundry at 5Parker Street, Castlemaine will be holding an Open Day on SaturdayOctober 18 and invites members of the community to takea look behind the factory door,enjoya trip back to yesteryear, and tour the facility and its modern operations as theyare today.
Theopen daywill run from 10am to 2pm.
Thewell-known 'whistle'will sound across the town at 10am to coincide with the raising of flags on the Parker Street site and the gateswill open.
Thompsons Foundry Band will be performing and therewill be historical displays, aplaque unveiling and barbecue.
Guests can also enjoya powerpoint presentation by long-timeformer employeeand notedlocal historian George Milford.
Thetopic of George's presentation is: 'The fantastic gold finds by David and James Thompson and howthe Thompson Bros went on to open the engineering works and then, with plenty of capital and acan-do attitude to become Australia’s pre-eminent engineers'
Thepresentation session times will take placeat11am and 1pm in the lunchroom.
FlowserveTKL project engineer –specialist and eventorganiser David Lawrencesaid they looked forwardtoopening their doors forthe special event.
"Itisnot every dayanAustralian business turns 150 yearsold,operating continuously on the same spot!Thompsons and Company began business to servethe needs of the growing colony withgeneral engineering work, supporting the mining industry,and the newrailwaysbeing constructed,"hesaid.
"In1864 the brothersDavid and James Thompson erected aflour mill at the corner
of Kennedy and Parker Streets, part of which is incorporated in the presentoffices of the company.
"In1875 theystarted theengineering business, 'Thompsons and Company' operating through manyname changes and historic periods. Thebusiness is nowknown as ‘Flowserve' trading as Thompsons Kellyand Lewis (TKL).
"FlowserveisanAmerican corporation based in Dallas, USAand this is whatweare nowknown as."
Allare welcome to attend the Open Day Visitorstothe foundry areadvised to wear enclosed flat-sole footwear
To coincide withthe FlowserveTKL Open Day, anumber of other local organisations with aconnection to thehistoric foundry will open their days to offertours, displays and demonstrations.
Billmans Foundry Castlemaine Open Day
Local business Billmans Foundry at 5-7
LangslowStwill also open itsdoorsbetween 10am and 2pm. Viewsome of Billmans current projects and see alivepour. This will allowvisitorstowitness Billmans heritage metal casting craftsmanship firsthand, offering achancetosee thecreation of aunique Australian-made productinaction.
Castlemaine Historical Society Open Day
Join membersatthe Castlemaine Historical Society Incatthe Former Court House at 7Goldsmith Crescent fora special Open Dayastheyshowcase highlights from their archives, with aspotlightonThompsons Foundry –celebrating 150 yearssinceits founding.
Explorea fascinating collection on historical films,photographs and employee records, offering aunique glimpse into one of Castlemaine's iconic industries. CHSI will be open between 1pm and 4pm. Entry: Gold coin donation.
Other must-see sites
Community membersare also encouraged to take thetime to visit anumberof other significantsites in around Castlemaine.
These include:
–QuartzHill: Take aself-drivetour to Quartz Hill, offNorth St,Chewton, the scene of the Thompson Bros gold discovery thatwould todayamount to millionsof dollars.
–Maldon VintageMachinery Museum: TheThompsons DisplayatMVMM was awarded an Engineering Excellenceaward Open 9.30am to 6pm
–Viewthe CastlemainePioneersand OldResidents Association shop frontdisplayat81MostynStreet, Castlemaine.
–Pay avisit to theMountAlexander VintageEngine Club, Muckleford (alongside the Muckleford Station), which has a Thompsons Stamper battery on site.
TheFlowserveTKL Open Daywill showcase ahostofmemorabilia such as images likethis Bedplate of 36’’ &66’’ x54’’ RodMill Engine.
School holidayfun at Woodend
TheSeptember/October School Holiday Programatthe Woodend Neighbourhood House is packedwith awide rangeofactivities designed to sparkcuriosity,creativity and connection.
Across the two-week holiday, children will have the chancetotakepart in hands-on STEM challenges, including aRobo Explorer workshop foryounger children and aLEGO robotics session forolder agegroups.
Forthose witha creativeflair,there areart workshops ranging from zentangle pillowcase designs and paper-based sunshine creations to outdoor bug-building with natural materials.
Drama enthusiasts can exploreimprovisation, performanceand even screen acting in aworkshop with StoryboardDrama Studios, while little yogis areinvited to join Sarahfrom Shanti Studio forplayfuland relaxing yoga sessions.
Manager of the House, MelissaBaker,said theprogram reflected the House’s mission to support children and families withfun and educational activities through theschool holidays
“It’sfantastic thatwe’re able to offersuch adiverse programfor the spring school holidays," she said.
"Whether your child lovesscience, art, performanceorsimply wantstotry something new, there’sa workshop to suit.
"These activities area wonderfulway for children to learn, create,and connect with othersinasupportiveand welcoming environment.”
Programs caterfor children from preschool to grade six, with placeslimited. Families are encouraged to book early to secure aspot.
Full details and bookings areavailable via the ‘What’sOn’ section of the Woodend Neighbourhood House website: www.woodendnh.org.au
Take up walking football
Originally developed in the UK in 2011, walking football capturedthe hearts of older adults when a2014 advertisementfeaturedaformer professional playerrediscovering the joyofthe game. Sincethen, it has become aworldwide movement, with clubs and leagues forming across awide rangeof agegroupsand welcoming both women's and mixed gender teams.
Locally,U3A Kynetonintroduced the indoor version of walking football severalyears ago, withone clear mission –to create awelcoming environmentwherepeople can boost their fitness, enjoyfriendly competition and connect through sport –nomattertheir ageorexperiencelevel.
Every Wednesdayafternoon, alively and inclusivegroup of men and women gather at Buffalo Stadium, Woodend, to lace up their runners, sharea laughand enjoythe game at a relaxedpace. Theatmosphere is all about participation over competition –encouraging movement, camaraderie, and above all, fun!
Formoreinformation or to join asession, contact U3A Kyneton on 0439 360 763 or simply showupona Wednesdayafternoon at Buffalo Stadium. Your first game is free!
Paul Canlan from StoryboardDrama, who will be running twodrama workshops at the Woodend Neighbourhood House during the holidays,and Paula Crozier,room bookings officeratthe House.
JD Painting achampion
JD Painting Co,based in Kyneton, has been named Champion in the Painter category at the 2025 Australian Trades Small Business Champion Awards, the premier programrecognising outstanding trades-based small business operators nationwide.
JD Painting Co.stood out in the Painter category,impressing an independentpanel of expert judges.
Business owner JaydeWhelansaid winning this awardmeanta lottoher team.
"We’re proud to be part of the Macedon Ranges community, and we’relucky to have such wonderfulclients,"she said.
"Toberecognised on anational levelis atrue reflection of our team’s dedication, passion and commitmenttodelivering the highest standards of workmanship.”
JaydeWhelanofJDPainting Co.with her awardat TheHyattRegency,Sydney.
Woodend rehab clinic expands
More people experiencing drug and alcohol addiction will have support with the expansion of ArrowHealth’s rehabilitation clinic at Woodend.
Theclinic nowhas an additional eightbeds and 55 staff forthe careand treatmentofpatients.
Minister forHealth and Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas visited the clinic last week.
"The expansion of this clinic will makea real differencefor those in my community struggling with drug and alcohol addiction –allowing them to seek the care theyneed, closer to home,"she said.
Supported by a$600,000 investment, the $2.1 million expansion will allowArrow Health to deliver moreofits essential services to help people affected by addiction and their families.
Theproject featured the construction of arehabilitation cottage, upgrades to carparking andambulanceaccess, and the refurbishmentofexistingrooms.
Theworks have more than doubled annual in-patienttreatmentcapacity to about 240 and out-patientcarefrom80toapproximately 180 patients eachyear
ArrowHealthPrivateHospital wasfounded in 2014, afternow-CEOTobyLawrence’s experiences withaddiction in his family.
Thehospital clinic provides in-house careand treatmentfor patients experiencing addiction, out-patientfollow-up care and treatment, and support and counselling for families.
MacedonMPMary-Anne Thomas and Toby Lawrence, chiefexecutiveofficer of ArrowHealth cut the official ribbon to open BelamBelam
Aunique theatrical experience
Beginning with birthdayparty thankyounotes andsummercamp postcards between twodorky thirdgradersMelissa Gardiner and Andrew MakepeaceLadd III, Love Letters offers amemorable and unique theatrical experience
Set in an erawell before the adventof faxes, texts, emails and all forms of social media, it'sa celebration of language.
Wordsare read aloud, and fly offthe pages, as theytakeusontheir 50-year personal journeyencompassing love,longing, estrangementand tenderness, revealing so much from whatiswritten, and whatisleft unspoken.
Formorethan 30 yearsthis delightful playfor twoperformershas been continually performed world-wide by an impressivelist of luminaries of stageand screen. Director BetteSartoreand experienced Cathouse members Di Addington and
Botanic art open studio
Enjoya visit to thestunning visual displayofBotanic Artatthe Open Studio of the MountMacedon and District Horticultural Society
This is aunique opportunity to seethe artists in residenceworking on their current botanical projects. About eightartists will be painting and available to discuss the inspirations behind their latest works and materials used, providing an insightto the intricate process forthis delicate and detailed work.
Each artist will also have anumber of completedartworks on display. Original artworks will be forsale, along with prints and cards by various artists.
MountMacedon and District Horticultural Society'sopenstudio will be held from 10am-4pmonSaturdayand SundayOctober 4and 5, at 583 MountMacedon Road, MountMacedon (rear of golf course).
Frank Sartorewill puttheir ownspinon A.R. Gurney's belovedwork.
Love Letters is playing fora strictly limited season of four matinees only on October 18, 19, and 25, 26 at their warm and cosy pop-up theatreatthe Kyneton Masonic Centre,7 Yaldwyn Street West at 2pm sharp.
Doorsopen30minutes before showtime.
Ticketsstill at $25/$20 include sherries and programs and their legendary award-winning interval fare 'High Teaand Bubbles'
Bookings via www.trybooking.com/ DFLOD or 0494 166 257 forenquiries and special needs.
Cash is preferred if paying at thedoor Companion cardiswelcome and the carer'sseatmust be booked on 0494 166 257.
Newseason swings into play
Shoppersatthe Lancefield and District FarmersMarket willsee the newseason swinging into play on the High Street centre plantation this Saturday.
Thereare 85 local and regional producerstoselect from, plus live music in seatedlunchareas
Prim Botanicalwilll be at the market withfresh cut flowersgrown in Broadford. A&B Trees of Heathcotereturns with nativeplantsfor beauty,habitatand revegetation projects.
Crossies Cados has hass avocados and oranges from Torrumbarry Double Oaks Estate returns with their famous cool climate wines, produced in Lancefield.
Buyseasonal mushrooms from SandorsHarvest –Newlynand Mi Mushrooms –Castlemaine.
Allenbee Fields Preserves is launching their newMisoSesame Dressing –perfect forspring salads –made in Tooborac.
Pete's Travelling Pans brings renowned SriLankan street food –prepped in HeathcoteJunction.
Harcourt Orchardsisselling fresh fruits growninHarcourt, LockwoodSouth and Mildura. Peruse theHigh Street forother market dayrefreshments and interesting
Support theartists and artisans
Experiencethe vibrancy of art and creativityatthe Castlemaine Artists Market on Sunday, September 28.
It will be held from 10am to 2pm at Western Reserveand bring together more than 50stalls, livemusic and activities forall ages. It's the type of environmentthatbrings together local artisans, familiesand art lovers fora greatday out.
Head on down and browse acurated selection of handcraftedgoods including unique jewellery,pottery,paintings, sculptures, textiles, woodwork and more. Andthe local artists from this area arealwaysupfor achattotalkabout their crafts and other musings.
Once you'redone working your waythrough all the trinketsavailable, enjoydelicious food and drink from avariety of on-sitevendorsand chill out on the grass while youtakeinsome livemusic.This month therewill be afan-favouriteperforming, as the market welcomes back Curlyand TheFringe, aMelbourne-based indie-folk duo.
Forthe kids therewill be face painting and other creativeactivities. TheMountAlexander Shirehas also helped outtosupportartists who areofthe younger generations. They willfeature on the daywith their ownstalls and maketheir mark in theworld as artists.
It's truly aspacewhereall areinvited to feel inspired and support artists and artisans, and takehome something uniquely beautiful. Whether youare local or avisitor to the area, youwon't want to miss the Castlemaine Artists Market
Come celebratelocal harvestand production hereatthe market by shopping, soaking up the greatcommunity vibes and indulging in some fine international flavoursinour market day lunch selection! Greatlivemusic from TheSunsets and free face-paint forthe kids.
stores to explore. Lancefield has its own brewery open, the Lost Watering Hole, as well as manywinery cellar doorsopen.An area rich with fineproduce!
Prim Botanical
Di Addington as Melissa Gardiner and Frank SartoreasAndrew MakepieceLaddIII
Photo:Nicole Katiforis
Learn to darn andmend
Head out to thenext Castlemaine and surrounds Repair Cafe on September 28 and join the Mending Circle to learn to darn and mend your holeywoollies. Youcan also learn to crochet, knit or hand-sew. Be advised on howtomend or revamp or repurpose the clothes youlove.Shareyour skills or learn newones.
Take broken household appliances suchaslamps, vacuum cleaners and toastersfor the volunteer repairerstohaveagoatrepairing. Please clean things before taking them to the Cafe and takeall components for testing.
Learn basic bicycle maintenance, getApple Mac adviceorbring small broken wooden items. Have your knives sharpened and small fiddly things likejewellery fixed. Getoverlocker advice and machine sewing repairs. It's firstin, first served, so go early.Havea cuppa while youwait
It's on from 10am to 1pm at the Castlemaine CommunityHouse.Ifthe Cafe is busythe last item maybeat 12.15. Agold coin donation is appreciated. Enquiries to Chris on 5470 5508. If leaving amessage, leave your name and number clearly
Bowling over breast cancer
GayBuchananisliving with Stage4 breast cancer
Gratefulfor the support and treatmentshe has received, she is hosting afundraiser to support theBreast Cancer Network Australia at theHarcourt Bowls Club on Sunday, October 5.
Gaywas first diagnosed with breast cancer at the ageof 52. Sheremained cancer-freefor the next 17 years, before having to undergo asecond mastectomy.
During aharrowing time, while her husband wasin hospital undergoing treatmentfor prostate cancer,Gay was diagnosed with multiple metastases in her liver and her bones.
"Theyput me on these amazing tablets and monthly injections at the hospital, targetedhormone therapy, and threemonths later, it wasliketheyhad turned the lights down. It wascompletely mind-boggling, and Ithought, 'I'm going to be okay, Ican see the year ahead now'.Before that, Ihad six months, maybe. AndI have no side effects!
"I am so appreciativethatthe tabletand treatmentthat Iamonwereonapprovedthree yearsago.The tablets are $4000 but as a'geriatric' Iget them for$7!" Gaysaid.
"I need to payitforwardwhile Ican and raise awareness and raise some money. TheBreast Cancer Network Australia is an amazing organisation that has advocatedfor alot of research."
With the support of her family and in particular,her daughter("she's the energy behind this fundraiser"), Gay has reached out to thecommunityfor support, who have been incredibly generous, offering prizes and gift cards to their shops.
Theevent,which will run from 2pm-5pm on October 5, will be afun, lively dayfull of prizes, hampers, raffle draws, games, food and drink.
Guests areasked to wear a'pop of pink' and aprize will be awarded to thebest dressed.
Thebar willbeopen, and Harcourt ValleyWinery'sdelicious sparkling rosé will be flowing.
Forcatering purposes, please register to attend the eventat: events.humanitix.com/bowl-over-breast-cancer and if youcan makea small donation to help kick-start reaching their target(all donations over $2 aretax deductible).
Formoreinformation, call 0408 570 403.
Animalplaninput sought
Hepburn ShireCouncil is seeking inputtoits newDomestic Animal ManagementPlan to shape howdogsand cats will be managed overthe next four years.
Thenew plan will outline arangeofactions and initiatives to support responsible petownership, including petwelfare, registration, dogattacks, catcurfew andnuisancecomplaints.
Following the feedback period,the draftDomestic Animal ManagementPlan 2025-2029 will be released forpublic exhibition in October
Submissions close on September 26. Community memberscan complete the survey online at:participate.hepburn.vic.gov.au/DAMP or visit one of the council’slibraries or customer servicecentres.
BarkersCreek residentGay Buchanan still volunteersatTaradale
to the children read.
1-31 October
Celebratingthe contributionsofolderVictorians
With support from the Victorian Government,thisyear’s SeniorsFestival will feature morethan3000 events –fromCelebration DayatFederation Square on October 5tothe Victorian Senior of the Year Awards on October 22. Minister forAgeing Ingrid Stittsaidthe government encouraged all Victorians to getinvolved in this year’s SeniorsFestival –check the online calendar on
thegovernmentwebsiteorpickupa programguide at your localColesor post office
“The Victorian Government is proud to deliver the annualSeniorsFestival –amonth-longcelebration of the remarkable contributionsolder Victorians make to our state,”MsStitt said.
Forthe month of October,the Victorian Goldfields Railway is offering all seniors15per cent offonFriday and SundayGoldfields Explorer Trains. Make use of free V/Line travel during SeniorsFestival 2025 to getto Castlemaine! Catch theGoldfields Explorer Steam Train –departing from Platform 3 Castlemaine Railway Station on any FridayorSundayinOctober Seniorsreceivea 15 per cent discount when booking online during October –use PROMOCode: SENIORS25. PresentSeniorsCardoncheck-in. Notavailable with anyotheroffer Discountapplies to both Excursion and FirstClass travel. Free V/Line travel forseniorsavailable October 5toOctctober 12 only Book at:www.vgr.com.au/seniorsfestival
Participating in
Connect, create andcelebrate
MountAlexanderShireCouncil and Castlemaine Community House areinviting residents to come along and enjoythe 2025 MountAlexander SeniorsFestival! Themonth-long festival shines alighton the contributions, creativity and community spirit of older Australians. Enjoyfreeand low-cost events designed to help youconnect with fellow community membersand embracenew experiences.
Festival highlights include: PlayDatebyAll TheQueens Men WednesdayOctober 1, 10.30am and 1pm Just in time forthe school holidays,join the grandkids forthis super-fun boogie session happening at Phee Broadway Theatre. Free forseniors.
Tour of the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens
ThursdayOctober 2, 10am to 12pm Backgammon at TheTaproom October 2and 16, 6pm
Tryyour hand at this age-old boardgame inthe funand relaxedatmosphereofThe Taproom. This is afreeevent!
BendigoArt Galleryvisit
MondayOctober6,10am
An excursion to theBendigoArt Gallery
Organised by Get Connected Mt Alexander This is afreeevent!
Community Lunchand Mini Expo
TuesdayOctober 7, 12pm to 2pm
Genealogy
FridayOctober 17,10am to 11am
Mobility Devices and Accessibility Workshop
MondayOctober 27, 10am to 12pm
Castlemaine PrideLifeDrawing
TuesdayOctober 28,10am to 12pm
Murnong Mummas Farm Tour
FridayOctober 31,10am to 11.30am
Forfullprogram details, call Castlemaine Community House on 5472 4842 or visit their website at cch.org.au
Anew waytobuild strength at anyage
As we age, it’scommon to lose muscle mass and bone density.Thiscan affect balance, increase the risk of falls, and limit independence. Butitdoesn’t have to be this way. Research shows thatlifting weights —particularly lifting heavier weights over time is one of the most effectivewaystoprotect and even rebuild both muscle andbone.
Traditionally,older adultshavebeen encouraged to sticktolightdumbbells or seatedexercises. While this canhelp alittle, it doesn’t provide the stimulusbones and muscles truly need to grow stronger.AtReal Strength Studio in Castlemaine, the Never TooLateprogram is helping older adults break through this stereotype.
“Wehavemembersintheir 70sand 80s, with no prior gym experience,who arelifting weights they neverthoughtpossible,”says studio manager,Aimee Black.
“The improvements aredramatic— stronger bones, better balanceand mobility,improvedposture, and ahugeboost in confidenceand everydayenergy.”
Powerlifting isn’t reserved forathletes. With the rightcoaching and safe technique, it can be adaptedfor almost anyone. The keyislifting enough weighttochallengethe body —and doing it consistently in asupportiveenvironment.
That’s whyReal Strength offers fully supervised powerlifting sessions in small groups, so memberscan train safely,build confidence, and enjoythe social side of exercising together
If you’reover50and want to feel stronger, steadier,and healthier,it’snever toolate to start.
Formoreinformation, visit www.realstrengthstudio.com or call 0480 732 930.
Join our highly popular NeverToo Late powerlifting program -designed to help you move better and livestronger
•Build strength
•Improvebone density
•Boostmobility &balance
•Feel confident and capable
Small groups. Supportivecoaches. Suitable forall levels –evencomplete beginners.
Ken.
Lesleylifting 40kg.
THE COMING BACK OUT BALL MOVIE
Seniors FestivalFilm screening
As part of this year'sVictorian Seniors Festival, therewill be afreescreening in Sunbury of the 2018 documentary film, TheComing Back OutBall Movie
In the middle of Australia's divisivemarriageequality vote,Melbourne Town Hall hosted agalaevent to honour and celebrateits LGBTIelders. TheComing Back OutBall, full of colour,music and dancing, gave older LGBTIpeople the opportunity to connect, express themselves and build a community
This eventispresentedbySunbury and CobawCommunity Health's HealthyLGBTI Ageing Project and Hume Libraries. Themovie screening will be followedby afternoon teaand adiscussion featuring guest speaker,Meredith Butler from Pride in Ageing, SwitchboardVictoria. Theevent takes placeonWednesday October 22, 1.30pm to 4pm at theHume Global Learning Centre,44 Macedon Street,Sunbury
To book your placefor this free eventgoto www.sunburycobaw.org.au/the-comingback-out-ball-movie, or call 5421 166 or email healthpromotion@scchc.org.au. You can also scan the QR in the advertisement on this
In the middle of Australia’s divisivemarriage equality vote,Melbourne Town Hall hosted agalaevent to honour
its LGBTIelders. TheComing Back OutBall, full of colour,music anddancing, gave older LGBTIpeople the opportunity to connect, express themselves and build acommunity
@ Y YourOPINIONS
We want proper rulesand regulations
KirstyMcIntyre, Mount AlexanderKnittingNannas
It waswonderfultohear the news last week thata bill is being passed in ourstate parliament to create three national parks in centralVictoria.
This means thatforests likethe Wombat StateForest can be saved!
We need to be cautious though because the bill still has to pass through the upper house and be assentedto, and enforced, onceithas become law. As well, will there be anyloopholes in the legislation?Any 'transitional' agreements?
Andwill theloggers go flatout to make as much moneyastheycan before the law comes into action?
Now, we need proper federal laws to protect all forests and agriculturalland from being clearedacross our country.The federal governmenthas decided to amend the EPBC (EnvironmentProtection and Biodiversity Conservation)act very soon. We need to makesuretheyfix it properly so thatitiseffective.
Youcan contact Lisa Chesters(Bendigo electorate) or RobMitchell (McEwen) and letthem knowthatwewantproperrules and regulations:
–nomoreagriculturalland to be cleared forbeefproduction –nomoreloopholes to allowmoredestruction of our forests –the effects of climatechangetobe acknowledged as an importantcause of the loss of habitatand wildlife.
Local knowledge (1 point)
1. What production will KynetonTheatre CompanypresentinOctober?
2. Whoclaimed the 2025 Maryborough Castlemaine DistrictFootball Netball League premiership cupfor senior football?
3. Whowon best dressed windowinthis year’sKynetonDaffodil and Arts Festival competition?
5. Which local WildlifeVictoria volunteer wasrecently honoured witha Rotary Emergency Services Community Award?
General knowledge (1 point)
6. What is the capital of Germany?
7. Which one of the following did not appear in the 1994 film Forest Gump:Tom Hanks, SallyField, MykeltiWilliamson, MacaulayCulkin, or HayleyJoelOsment?
8. Thefollowing areall types of what: lapis lazuli, onyx and citrine.
9. Thebrand Pepsiuses which three coloursinits circular logo? (3 points)
10. Whereinthe world would youfind Sensoji Temple?
This act, onceitisinplace, will determine decisions madeabout ourenvironmentfor alongtime. This is an opportunity thatwemightonlyhaveonceinour lifetime to protect ourforests and wildlife.
We need to put pressureonour politicians now. They do listen to us andwe need to tell them howurgentand necessary this lawis. If each one of us calls, emails or writes aletter, they will getthe message thatsaving our endangered wildlifeand habitatissomething we allcareabout.
We should honour their service
Paul Puttifoot, Muckleford
Iread with disdain thatMacedon Ranges ShireCouncil has yetagain refused to honour the men and women who at some time in their lives wroteout ablank cheque offering their services in the defenceofthis greatcountry,knowing full well the elected governmentcould cash it in in times of peril ('Anzac funds refused again', Midland Express,September 2). Is it toomuch to ask thatonAnzacDay we honour their service?
On this special dayweshould paytribute and thanks to all membersofthe Australian defenceforces. To stand together as one across this country,fromcities, towns and small villages, in remote areas —even in ameregathering of houses —not just at dawn but by attending the traditional march.
It’s been thatway formorethan acentury to remind us to remember our proud military history and learn from it lest we repeatit. It’s neverabout victory or defeat,
but hopefor abetterfuture. Ipersonally wish to thank Cr Kendall and Cr Young forhaving the strength of character to standindefence of the Anzac Day march. At least theydid notuse gaming and stategovernmentmandatedtraffic laws to oppose ourAustralian wayoflife, our pride in our achievements and thesacrifice that wasmadefor us all.
Does not alignwith strategy
Noel Harvey, Kyneton
Iamwriting to express deep concern at the recent council decision to closeapublictoiletinPiper Street,inwhatisclearly one of the shire’sprime tourism precincts.
This decision has caused considerable alarm among residents, visitorsand the business community, notonlybecause of the practical consequences but also because of the waythe matter has been handled.
Public toilets arenot atrivial service. They areanessential partofthe amenity and accessibility of our towns and tourist destinations. Council’sown Public Toilet and BarbecueStrategy (2023) recognises this, explicitly noting thatcouncil manages more than 50 public toilets “across parks, open spaces, sporting ovalsand tourist destinations,”and that these facilities must be “safe, cleanand accessible forall residents, workersand visitors”.The strategy also affirmsthatthe hours of operation should alwaysreflect the needs of the community and respond to demand.
Thecurrent decision is inconsistentwith these principles and does notalignwith
other adoptedcouncil strategies, including the Visitor Economy Strategy 2019–2029, which aimstoincrease the lengthofstay anddispersal of visitorsacross the shire. Removing akey public amenityina high-traffic tourism area undermines this goal andsends apoor messageabout the shire’scommitmenttobeing awelcomingdestination.
It is also concerning to seeconfusion and disagreementbetween councillorsand administration over responsibility forthe decision. Whether this wasinitiatedbyofficers or by resolution of council, theoutcome is the same: the community perceives thatdecisions of long-term impact arebeing taken withouttransparency or consultation.
Thebusinesscommunity has taken time to examine this matter against council’s adoptedpolicies and strategies, and the conclusion is clear: theclosure of this toilet does notalignwith council’sstated commitments to accessibility,inclusion, livability,or economic development. It risks damaging the reputation of our tourism precinctand diminishing visitor satisfaction.
Istrongly urge council to deferany action on this closure until aproperlyinformed community discussion has been held.
Writersare askedtokeep letterstoa maximum of 300 words. Longer letters mayonly be published at theeditor's discretion.
Over the Moon Studio in Castlemaine is expanding its wellbeing offerings in term four with adedicatedprogram of Yoga and Relaxation classesfor teenagers, led by long-time yoga and danceeducator Edna Reinhardt.
Thesix-week block runs on Wednesdayevenings from October 8to November 12, with separatesessions forYears7-9 (5.15pm- 6.15pm)and years10-12 (6.15pm-7.15pm).
Adolescencecan be abumpyride. Forteenagers, yoga and relaxation provide apractical toolkit fornavigating the pressures of school, sociallife and growing independence.
Gentle movementand focused breathing can help regulate energy levels, ease physical tension and improve sleep patterns.
Just as importantly,these practices offera rare pause in busyweeks—a chancetoreset, feel grounded in their ownbodies and build habits of selfcarethatsupport both learning and everydaywellbeing.
Theupcoming teen yoga classes at Over theMoon will blend mindful movementand breath awareness, offering young people an anchor forboth physical and mental wellbeing. Each class will finish witha guided relaxation —valuableskills to carrywell beyond the yoga mat.
Yoga has been aconstantthread in Edna’s life sinceher ownadolescence. What continues to draw hertothe practice is the sense of having a home base to return to—a place of steadiness, gratitude and resilience.
Sheisattracted to thenatural beauty of the postures andthe profound mind–body connection they offer. Thereisa quietgrace in both the shapes themselves and the process of arriving at them,a reminder thatstrength and stillness cancoexist.
Alongside founding twostudios, Edna established Yoga Education Resourcesin2006 (now continued under ednareinhardt.com)toprovide practical supports thathelp teachersand health practitionersinspireyoung people to engagewith yoga and relaxation.
Forenrolments, visit: overthemoonstudio.com forenquiries, email: enquiries@overthemoonstudio.com or call Marlena on 5470 5061.
Over the Moon Studio in Castlemaine is expanding its wellbeing offerings in term four.Photo:Tamsin Byrne
Covering the Macedon Ranges and MountAlexander Shires
‘Justchuck it in the garden’ –the finerpointsoftrenchcomposting
When door-knocking around our community with YIMBY, Imet agood number of folk whojust buried their food scraps straightintheir gardens. Officially this gets called ‘trench’or‘pit’composting.Let’s have alittle ‘dig’ into whatmightbethe simplest form of composting thereis.
Naturehas been composting sincelife first began. It is whyweare notwalking round up to our necks in organic material, and one of the reasonswehaverich, deep soils and the atmosphereand climate we have.Nature’ssystems aresoelegant.
Trench or pit composting emulates something of these naturalprocesses, putting the nutrientdirectly in the soil where theyare wanted –cutting out the‘middleperson’ofthe compost bin –and leaving the soil-lifetodothe decomposition work.
Despiteits simplicity,there arestill a fewthings we need to attend to with this composting approach.
Atrench (long and shallow) is probably a better idea than apit (deep), as the deeper we go in the soil, the lowerthe oxygen exchangewill be and the morelikely our scraps aretobreak downanaerobically, which will notgreat forour atmosphere and much of the nutrientcould be lost from our soils.
We aregoing to need to dig ashallow trench in an appropriate garden bed, and coverour organic offerings with soil each time we compost.Itisalso agood idea (as with all composting) to chop up our food scraps niceand small before adding them to the soil to speedupthe decomposition work forthe worms and microbes. Asharp spade in abucket works wondersfor this job.
Burying
temporarily,while the food scraps are still fresh, to stop thedigging up of tasty treats.
Club Birthday
NAME (PRINT)
ADDRESS.............
DATE OF BIRTH
PARENT/GUARDIAN
SIGNATURE
So,despiteits simplicity, thereisstill some manual labour required.
If we aregrowing veggies, trench composting is best done in adormantbed to avoiddisturbing delicateroots. We can probably be alittle less careful if we are feeding established ornamentals or trees. Rotating our activetrench to wherethe nutrients aremost needed is important and should be niceand easywiththisapproach.
Because we don’t want to be attracting pests to thegarden, covering our food scraps with soil each deposit is essential to reducepest-attracting odours.Somefolk also add rodent-proofwireoverthe trench
If we starttrying to process morethan ahandfulofnitrogen-rich things –like kitchen scraps –inour trench each week, the more we’ll be wanting to add some balancing carbon-rich ingredients –like chopped straw or autumnleaves– with each addition. Compost worms and microbes still want theirbalanced diet, whether theyare in the soil or in the compost bin.
As asystemfor dealing with amodest amount of food scraps, trench composting probably can’t be beatenfor simplicity. –Joel Meadows works with *Yes In My Back Yard,(YIMBY), acommunity-scale composting initiativeinCastlemaine and surrounds. Send questions or comments to hello@yimbycompost.com, or to book in fora compost workshop.
Auxiliary raises funds
TheRay MBeggAgedCareAuxiliary recently conductedtheir Annual GeneralMeeting. Thenew executivewereelected as follows: presidentRosemary Bain, secretary Deirdre Briscombe and treasurer JanYoung.
Ms Bain said another successful year had passed and with the wonderful support of the greatercommunity they were able to raise in excess of $22,000.
"These funds areused to enhancethe welfareand lifestyle of all the residents at RM Begg," Ms Bain said.
"Atthe meeting aletterwas read out from the managing director and chiefexecutive officer, Jason Binder,onbehalf of the BoardofRespect, thanking the Auxiliary fortheir ongoing support
"Special mention wasmade regarding the strong communitysupport received and that the funds raisedstrenghten thesense of belonging and carethatisatthe heart of RayM Begg."
"Welookforward to the redevelopmentofBolton Hall and will continuewith our monthly marketsthroughoutthis process."
Theauxiliary will always welcomenew members. Enquiries can be made by calling 5421 3600.
AgriFuturesaward open
Women withbold ideas and adrive to create positive change in rural and regional Australia areinvited to apply forthe 2026 AgriFutures RuralWomen’s Award.
Theaward recognises and supports leadership of womenacross rural, regional and remote businesses, industries and communities to take theirvision even further Stateand territory winnerseachreceive a$15,000 grantfromWestpac to progress their project, business or program, along
with access to professional development and the AgriFuturesalumni network. Thenational winner and runner up will receiveanadditional $20,000 and $15,000 respectively.Women with an established project, business or programthatbenefits rural industries, businesses or communities areencouraged to apply Applications close Friday, November 7. Fordetails, or to apply,visit: agrifutures.com.au
asmall bucket of food scraps in agarden trench, composting at its simplest.
MIDLAND Property &Living
Exceptional SamCox Landscapedesign
Highly desired yetrarelyfound, this expansivelight-filled, recently renovatedfamily home situated on apeaceful 3.4 acres (approx) of spectacular garden, boasts dual street frontages and is locatedashort walk from the vibrantheart of Woodend villageand V/line station. Featuring an exceptional SamCox Landscapedesign, the propertyisdeeply connected to nature.Renowned forhis enduring Australian bush style settings layering nativeplants with careful rock placementtocreatea natural pond with waterfall, the wonderfulgarden attracts an impressivevarietyoflocal birds and wildlife. With sustainability in mind, the substantial vegetable garden and adjoining orchardprovide an abundanceofproduce, supported by 100,000 litres of tank water, while town waterisalsoconnected. Heritagefruit trees including quinces, plums, apples, pears and peaches adorn the orchard, while flowering natives and morethan 30 varieties of dahlias provide abeautiful cut flowergarden. With a mixture of blackwoods and cleared land in the back paddock, thereisevenroom fora pony or two.
Connected to thegarden via anorth-facing entertaining terrace, the home features a stunning newkitchen and twoupdated bathrooms. Recently paintedinternallywith partial double glazing and newcarpetsinstalled, the home is supremely comfortable, enhanced by ducted heating, evaporativecooling and acosywood fire. Theversatile floor plan offers
four to fivebedrooms including aluxurious main bedroom withensuite, multiple living areas and astudy nook, withevery windowframing delightful views of the garden. With plentiful storage, an attached studio and mudroom, plusa separate12x6m (approx) shed with carport, thereisroom fortoysofall kinds forboththe children and grownups.Fibre-to-thepremises internetisconnected making working from home easy, while 4kw solar reduces energy consumption.
This home truly does have it all, withroom forlarge families or multiple generational living, an outstanding garden, walking distancetoWoodend town centre and with the superb natural and gastronomical attractionsofthe Macedon Ranges just ashort driveaway.
Welcome to 9CottonCircuit,Gisborne –anexquisiteHamptons-inspired residencewhereunderstated elegancemeets serene sophistication. From the moment youstepthrough theentrancetothe home, you'reenveloped in asense of calm,luxury and expansivespace CraftedbyQuantumHomes with meticulous attention to detail, this distinguished property features four generously proportioned bedrooms, adedicatedhome office or formal sitting room,two opulentbathrooms and multiple living zones thatseamlessly blend contemporary comfort withclassic architectural charm.
At the heart of the home is asleek, contemporary kitchen featuring expansivestone benchtops, soft-close cabinetry,tiled splash backs, apremium Technika upright cooker featuring agas cooktopand electric oven,and a spacious butler'spantry.Lightengineered timber flooring flows seamlessly through the open-plan meals and family area, with an additional loungeorhome theatre room providing even morespace forrelaxed living or entertaining.
Elegantly appointed, the residenceshowcases a refined layout that prioritises both luxury and liveability Thegenerous master suiteexudes sophistication, boasting arelaxed ensuitewith twin vanities, an oversized double showerwith seatand dual walk-in wardrobes. Threeadditional bedrooms, each with built-in robes, areserviced by abeautifully finished family bathroom, complete with aseparatetoiletfor added privacy and
convenience.
Outside, the low-maintenancegardens complement the home's impressivestreetappeal, withside gate access leading to asecurebackyard. Alight-filled double garagecomplete with storageand internal access, plus additional driveway parking, ensuresplenty of spacefor vehicles.
Enjoyyear-round entertaining in the fully enclosed alfrescoarea, complete with café-style clear blinds/ doors. Additional features include plantation shutters, an exposedaggregate driveway,a generous laundry with ample storageand heating/cooling options foryearround comfort
Positioned within walking distanceofWillowbank Primary School and Rothschild Kindergarten, childcare centresand just minutes from Jacksons CreekReserve, Gisborne Secondary College, St Brigid'sand Gisborne Primary School. You'll also be close to delightfullocal cafés, all the charm of the Gisborne township and the Macedon Ranges has to offer.
Property: Hamptons-inspiredhome
Address: 9CottonCircuit, Gisborne
Price: $1,100,000 –$1,150,000
Agent: Raineand Horne Gisborne
Contact: RodCallins 0457 681 560
Wherearchitectureand lifestyle intersect
Set apart by its striking architecturalform and meticulous attention to detail, this home is acelebration of modern living and thoughtful design. From themomentyou arrive, the sense of scale and eleganceisundeniable –a wide gallery hallway,guiding youthrough ahome wherelight, spaceand bespokecraftsmanship converge.Every corner has been considered, every elementcurated, creating aresidencethatfeels both expansiveand intimately welcoming.
At its heart, theopen-plan living spaceisa triumph of style and function, flooded with naturallightthrough clerestory windows andlifted by soaring rakedceilings. Thecustom kitchen commands attention, it features stone benches, an oversizedisland, awalk-inpantry and a900mm Westinghouse cooker –a spacebuilt forcooking, entertaining and gathering. Here,the home's design encourages connection, with seamless flowbetween living, dining and outdoor areas thatisperfect forfamily lifeorhosting in style.
Themain suiteoffersa retreatofrareproportions, with its ownwalk-in dressing room, and ensuiteoverflowing with modern elegance, complete with adouble shower, wall-hung vanity and separatetoilet. Threefurther bedrooms –two with robes –and the flexibility of a study or home office ensurethe homeadapts to theneeds of amodern family.The second living area, cleverly cabled fora theatresetup andenclosedbysliding barn doors, brings versatility,creating opportunities forcinematic nights in or aprivate breakawayzone. Beyond its impressive layout,the home excels in detail. Timber-look floorsprovide warmth underfoot, ducted reversecycle air conditioning maintains year-round comfort,
double glazing enhances efficiency and peaceand three-phase poweroffer further potential. Abuilt-in bar with sink adds atouch of theatretoentertaining,making every gathering alittle morememorable. Furtherpracticality is realised in the double garageattached to the house, with internal access and integrated laundry facilities, combining conveniencewith cleverlayout.
Thedesign continues outdoors, whereanexpansivecovered patio mirrors the drama of the rakedceilings inside, providing aseamless flowfromindoor living to open-air relaxation. Thegrounds areequally well-prepared, withirrigated levellawns, watertanks and side access, along with alevelledpad readyfor the addition of agarage/workshop.
This is ahome wherearchitectureand lifestyle intersect –aresidencethatdeliversboth spectacle and substance, designed forthose who value space, detail and the art of modern living.
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Belle Property Castlemaineand Maldon.
120MostynStreet, Castlemaine.
3 a 1 b 2 v 1294r
•Elevatedheritagehome on MonumentHillwith sweeping views and rich period charm
•Spacious interiors, cosy sitting room, country style kitchen, oversized 3rdbedroom/studio and vine-coveredalfresco area.
•Landscaped gardens, solar panels, and future potential (STCA).
ForSale
$1,095,000 View
Saturday27thSeptember: 11:30am -12:00pm
Blasi Mulholland |0417311 733
RobWaller |0418 571 130
7Robertson Avenue, Castlemaine.
3 a 2 b 4 v 6475r
•Storybook cottageon1.6 acres with lush,established gardensina prized Castlemaine location.
•Warm,character-filled interiorswithtimber features,agarden-view conservatory,and modern comforts.
•Outdoorabundancewithfruittrees,veggie gardens and borewater
ForSale
$990,000 View As advertised
RobWaller |0418 571 130
Blasi Mulholland |0417311 733
2/10 Gaulton Street, Castlemaine.
2 a 1 b 1 v 160r
•Enjoystylish, low-maintenanceliving just moments from town.
•Light-filled open-plan living, spacious bedrooms, and asmartly designed kitchen offer everydaycomfort and versatility.
•Outdoorentertaining, practical extras, and unbeatable walkability makethis aperfect homeorinvestment
ForSale
$540,000 View
As advertised
RobWaller |0418 571 130
Blasi Mulholland |0417311 733
Scan to viewour currentlistings
Atreasured Woodend address
Thefirst threedetached townhouses in this superior quality and landmark 13 dwelling project by avery reputable localbuilder arenow completedand readyfor inspection.
Varying in sizefrom169m2 to 182m2 (18sqs to 19.5sqs) included integrated garages, each townhouse comprises brightopenrooms including twolarge bedrooms, large deluxekitchens, spaciousdining/living spaces, two bathrooms, laundry and an outdoor living area.
Features include high vaulted timber ceilings, superior
joinery,double glazing, gas hydronicheating in slab floor plus gas logfirespace heating, travertine tile floors, lowenergy and mood lighting, AEGappliances, concealed refrigerators and dishwashers, and manysubtle features an inspection will reveal.Locatedina prime inner township location within very easywalking distanceofall Woodend village’sgreat community facilities, and afterseveral yearsinthe planning process and sitedevelopment, 27 Corinella Road isdestined to become an acclaimed and treasured Woodend address.
Property: Quality townhouses in prime location
Address: 27 CorinellaRoad, Woodend
Price: $1,250,000
Agent: Keatings Real Estate
Contact: RayCashmore0419 851 334
Afamily- runoasisnestled in the heart of Campbells Creek, Victoria withadecade of expertise aboutirrigation. It allstarted with theloveofgardening transforming into thriving, waterefficient havens.
Throughoutmy10 yearsworking forraces courses, irrigation companyand landscaping journeyI’veabsorbed wealth of knowledgeinthe intricate field of irrigation. Constantly expanding my understanding to ensure our clients receivethe best in water managementsolutions.
At Irrigation WaterSolutions we provide innovativedesigns, efficient irrigation systems,pumpfiltration solutions and comprehensiverepair services.
Servicing CentralVictoria and surrounding areas.
Irrigation WaterSolutions has over adecade of knowledgeand expertise to meetyouruniqueneeds of your garden andlawns.
Omega, Simpson, Dishlex, and Westinghouse. Simp www.kentappliancerepair.com.au kynetonappliancerepairs@gmail.com
CONCRETING
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Thereare plenty of differentsports to choose from in theMacedon Ranges, and volleyball looks certain to makea huge impactin2025-2026.
In the past fiveyears, the district volleyball participation levelhas soared by about 400 per cent Macedon Ranges Volleyball Association president, Monique Faulkner,and the currentcommitteemembersare elatedabout the progress being made.
"We're very proud to sharethatour club was recently awarded the 2024 Association of the Year by Volleyball Victoria,"Monique told the Express
"Additionally,weare about to take ahugestep forwardbyentering the Volleyball Victoria State League —the highest levelofcompetition in the state
"This milestone marks an incredible progression forour club, from startingasasmall social group 30 yearsago,tonow competing at state level."
Over three decades, theMRVAhas become morethan just aclub —it’sa community
Many of today’sjuniorsare following in the footsteps of their parents who onceplayedfor the association. Returning players areevenstepping back onto the court to competealongside their children in social competitions, highlighting the family spirit thathas alwaysbeen at the heart of the MRVA
"We're also theonly regional club joining the StateLeague this side of Victoria thattrains together,which makes the achievementevenmore exciting forour community," Monique said.
Thebig step forwardina growth area is seen
as reflecting thehardwork, talentand determination of the MRVA committee, players,coaches, parents and supporters.
ABOUTOPPORTUNITY
TheMRVAsees the step into VVL as morethan about competition —it'sabout opportunity!
Theassociation nowoffersa full pathwayfor players —fromteaching at local schools, to open training sessions forbeginnerslearningthe basics, to junior and senior developmentsquads, and nowall theway through to StateLeague competition.
MRVA hasfemale only and mixed team competitions playing regularly across differentlevels.
Training takes placeatRiddells Creek Leisure Centre on Sundayafternoons, and there’sMonday nightcompetition at the modern courts at the NewGisborne Stadium.
In recent years, MRVA teams have chalked up incredible success at tournaments across the state,proving aregional club can competewith the best.
Volleyball is trulyaninternational sport, and some Australian players have begun their careers at locallevels. TheMRVAwould love to produce futurenational representatives.
With 2026 marking anew chapterfor the MRVA,the committee and MRVA community can't wait to seedistrict players taking the court at state level.
TheMRVAwelcomes newplayers,coaches and supporterstojoin in the challenging step forward.
"With teamwork, support and dedication, we're confidentour association will continuetothrive," the presidentconcluded.
Potential players can email \for further information.
WRAP SP
Volleyball upsurge in MacedonRanges
CASTLEMAINE
Town &District
GOLFresults
Very close finishes highlightedthe club's latest stroke events. TheSeptember monthly medal on Saturdaysaw Chris Milham takethe honourswith 91-21-70, from fellow C-grader Kors VanEyk 93-22-71.
Scores in A-grade were high, with Orry Cross87-1176 edging out Gavin Lang 83-7-76 on acountback, while Brad Sturgess 85-13-72 toppedB-grade by ashotfrom Leon Thomas.
Fourteen differentplayers each carded birdies, and NTPswenttoRoss Stevensand Joel Maddern.
In Saturday's 9@9, Jo Ralston(37) shone with 19 points, from Mary Harris (31) on 15. Mick Kehoe's earlyround of 87-19-68 stood up in Thursday'smidweek medal as he wonthe medal and B-grade on aclose countback from VanEyk. Klai Jermyn eagled the eighth and wonA-grade with 71-2-69, ahead of Vin Walsh, and NTPswenttoLeigh Campbell and JenDyer.
GISBORNE
Thursdaywith 37 points, Tony Green read the greens well to topB-gradewith 37, and Geoffrey Ellis wonC-grade with35.
Denise Dunn well again winning Wednesday'swomen's eventwith 38 points, from Linda Lanham with34.
KYNETON
Thequicker the greens, the better the scores. Except when those strong winds come!
Grace Parkinson (26) handled difficult conditions best last Tuesday, carding 34 points despitetwo wipes to win B-grade by eightfromBethMurray (25)
RobMacRae(22) playedthe four par threes one over, and despitefivewipes, edged out captain Julie Harris (21) by onewith 29.
Parkinson (2), Tracey Bramich and Marian Orrwerethe NTPs
and the cakecameout forthe birthdaygirls.
TuesdayLegends: Mark Cruise (19) 31 points, from PeterMcGill(11) 30 and Wayne Mee(23) 29.
ThursdayFix: Nathan Moroney(17) 35 points, from Ed Godek (14) 32.
Saturdaystableford:ToddLambert (5) 37 points, from Denis Davenport (7) 34 and ColinThomas(15) 33.
MOUNTMACEDON
Saturday'sWholistic Health Macedon September medal wasa tight runrace, requiring acountback to determine grade winners, and ensuring amedal play-off in October RichardPayne 75-7-68 took outA-grade, and B-grade went to Ian'Oils' Flannery with 83-17-66.
Mark Shepherd(19) wasthe overall andC-grade winner with 85-19-66, with David Watt and Walrus NTPs Unwelcome squalls interruptedWednesday'sstableford.
Congratulations to Brendan Larkins who took out the W.E.D.Robinson Memorial Match Play Grand Final, beating Johnny Windows 6/5. ButLarkodidn't win everything at the weekend, with the GPLteam (Good Looking RoostersinaUte) getting rolled by the Story Knights, who sit around a table working on teebox strategies (but that's another story). Coffee Man Simon Steenbuck wonSaturday's A-grade stableford with 37 points, Paul Barlowcaptured B-grade with 36, and Harrison Bate led C-grade with 41. JennyO'Connor won the women's section with 34. Neighboursfan Jason Ramsay wonthe A-grade open on
LeftyJohn Waddell (12) made awelcome return to form offthe whitetees on Wednesday, with eightparsand a birdie in his 39 points, beating ahardcharging ColHudgson (3) by one, withDavid PiIcher (9) thirdon36.
Rachael McAndrew (24) had31 points to lead in the women, and Marg Scoble (25) battled to 19 points to earn the encouragementaward
Neville Yates(7) wonThursday's back nine shootout with22points, with alateeagle and birdie. Adam Smith and Simon Rosenbergwerefivepoints in arrears.
Saturdaybroughtmorecold winds and only three playersbeattheir handicaps —one in each grade.
Best overall wasC-grader,Michael Archer (20) with 38 points and finished threeclear of Noel Alldis (20). Both scored on every hole.
Teen Thomas Beachey(16) wasalsoconsistentand topped B-grade with 37, three clear of captain David Austin (17).
Tien Ho (12) had his driver and putter on song and won A-grade with 37 points, three ahead of David Moore(8). Twelveplayers had birdies, and NTPswereGlenn Cook (2), Paul Law, Alldis and ScottGalloway(also super pin).
PLEASE NOTE: Theannual Grand Final Eve4BBB is on this Friday, with visitorswelcome from 9am fora 10am shotgunstart. Entry is $40 including barbecue, with prizes formen's,women's andmixed teams, plus NTPs.Phone 0438 865 585 to book.
LANCEFIELD
In averybusyweek,20ofthe ladies enjoyedtraining sessions run by the well-known Kevin Quigley. They were excited to putwhattheyweretaughtinthe follow-up practise.
Newmember Mary Skehan received aspecial welcome,
Theclubwelcomed Trev Atkins who came north from his newdigs at Mt Duneed, and also ahibernating Kellie Spry whoawoke from her winterslumber
MIke Gorman (16) wonA-grade with40 points from ShooterDawson (13) on 38, and B-grade went to JimAlsop(31) with34 points, from Karl Pongracic (19) with32. Dawson and Pongracic were NTPs.
TRENTHAM
Afield of 38 turned out forthe men's stableford in cool and windy conditions on Saturday.
In A-grade, Mark Fisher (10) wonwith38 points, on a countback from Martin Webber (3).
Adrian Sisk (20) had 35 points in B-grade, with Tim Clarke(25) the runner-up.
Alison Borchers(12) had abrilliant+4inthe women's parevent,with AlexEvered(16) next best on -2.
Aspecial four-person Ambrosewill takeplace at Trentham this Saturday(AFL Grand Final Day),soconsider taking part.
WOODEND
ThereweresomeexcellentscoresinSaturday'sstableford, with afield of 53. RobertDarling's42pointswas the highlight.
A-grade —William McLean (7)39, from Paul Jenke(6) 38.
B-grade —PaulEvans (10) 40 from Cory Stephens (13) 38.
C-grade: RobertDarling (21) 42 from Brandon Kolkka (23) 36.
Lowmarkers dominatedTuesday'sstableford,with Andrew Davies(3) the winner with 35 points, from Nicholas Cox(scr)33.
Gisborne Golf Club’s Brendan Larkins (atleft)and Johnny Windows.
In the past fiveyears, the districtvolleyball participation levelhas soared by about 400 per cent
Locals take on challenge
Twoplayers from central Victoria were among players taking partinthe Association CroquetBrian Reither Challenge at the Victorian Croquet Centre in Cairnlea on the weekend.
Tricia DevlinfromCastlemaine has been one of Australia's topplayers formanyyears, representing the country both hereand overseas on numerous occasions. Shefound the going abit tough against younger up and coming players but wasstill reasonably satisfied with her twowins.
PennyKrstevfromthe Macedon Ranges Club in Gisborne wasreturning to association croquetafter abreak of 20 years. With no other association croquetplayers in her club she has switched to playing golf croquet. Theskills between the twoforms of the game are quitedifferentand Pennywas abit rusty afternot playing for so long but still enjoyedherself and is likely to be seen at afew moretournamentinfuture
Thelast time these twoplayers were on the lawns together wasin2004 when they were both representing Victoria.
Golf croquetisnow by farthe morepopular form of the game; therules aremuch simpler and players areonthe lawns at thesametime. Association croquetwas the original form of the game and is amuch more tacticalaffair with manysimilarities to snooker. One playerisupata time and theyare using all four balls as theytry to make breaks and work their wayround all the hoops. It's only when theymiss aball or makea mistakethatthey have to sitdownand their opponenttakes over.Games canbelong, drawn-out affairs, as each playerseeks to getontop.
CroquetVictoria is trying to getmoreplayers to take up association croquetand afew of the players competing on the weekend areskilled in both forms of the game.
Spring pennant
off
to softstart
TheGoldfields CroquetAssociation spring pennantgot offtoa soft start last week with one matchbeing playedearly TheCastlemaine Division 2team of Steve Duffy and Heather Crawleyhad other commitments this week so the Bendigo team of John Lillyston and RodArnold agreed to bring the match forward.
Castlemaine were the home team with Duffy and Lillyston up first; afterfour hoops the honourswereevenly split. Lillyston then pulled away fora convincing sevenhoops to four win. In thesecond game, Crawleyand Arnold also split the first four hoops before Crawleytook command and seemed headed foraneasy win, at one stageup6-2.Crawleyisstill eligible fordivision 3but movedupto division 2asDuffy waswithout apartner Nerves mayhavestarted to show as she allowedArnold to claw his wayback to six hoopsapiece.Luckily Crawleysteadied on the final hoop to escape with a7-6 win.
In the reversesingles, Lillyston had another big win, beating Crawley7-3. The game between Duffy andArnold turned into an endurance battle with the final hoop alone taking morethan 20 minutes before Duffy came outontop 7-6.
With the clubs tied on twogames each, the deciding doubles game wasexpected to be aclosely foughtaffair.Itwas almost an anti-climax withCastlemaine having afairly easy7-3 win withCrawley again showing she could easily match it
Acommitmenttothe game
Woodend HangingRock Petanque Club membershavebeenplaying the funnygame of petanque in Woodend forthe past 25 yearsand have had manymemberscome and go overthattime.
Oneofthe members, Mike Turner,migrated from England to be near his daughters and their families in Woodend. This is whereMikefound petanque and has been along-time member of the club since2018. Mike wasdiagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2012 and although overthe journeyhis health has deteriorated it has notdeterredMikefrom playing petanque. Hiscommitmentbrings him to theOld Racecourse Reserve, every Mondayand Thursdayafternoons, whereMikeand his carer, Lola, roll up fora fewhours, playing twoorthree of these funnygames, weather permitting, literally,beithail, rain or shine!
Over thattime he has become avaluable and enthusiastic player,overcoming his disability and happytojoininthe highs and lows of the game thatcan be quite frustrating at times! Mike just rollsanother boule!
This game wasintroduced to locals by Chinka Steel,who over thejourneysufferedill health tooand wasultimately confined to awheelchair but that did notdeter him from playing the game he loved! Anyone can playand enjoypetanque, man, woman or child.
Petanque can be played by anyone who has asense of adventure and fun in their sights!
Winner at Flemington
Kynetontrainer Charles Cassar was thrilled to gethis first winner at Flemington on Sunday. He has wonraces at the other citytracks.
Hisultra-consistent marePer Sempre camefrommidfield to win the Melbourne CupCarnival Fancy and Gallop BM70 over 1100m.
Ridden by Brad Rawiller,Per Sempre settled midfield and finished strongly in the straighttobeatfavouriteSun Setting by three quartersofa length.
Cassar said the six-year-old had maturedalot and gotoversome previous foot trouble.
"She tries so hard,"the trainer said with a wide smile.
PerSemprestarted as a$21 chance, and has nowwon fiveraces from 21 starts, with stakeearnings of $150,205.
Mike Turner
with division 2players
Although Castlemaine took the match three games to two, Bendigoactually ran morehoops, 29-28, which maybeimportant if hoops runisneeded to decide overall competition winnerslater in theseason.
Theseasonofficially gets started this week with another division 2match andthree division 3matchestobeplayed. Division 1 doesn't start until October
Scoring big forsport
Macedon Ranges has scored big fortwo projects in the Victorian Government's Regional CommunitySportsInfrastructure Fund.
Macedon Ranges ShireCouncil will receive$200,000 forthe installation of new 150 lux LED lighting to one soccerpitch at DixonField in Gisborne.
Thecouncil will also receive$40,000 forplanning the redevelopmentofRomsey Park Sports PrecinctOval2.Plans include an upgrade of the turf playing surface, drainageand irrigation systems andinstallation of LED sports lighting.
Theclub leaders
Highlands bowls pennantisfast approaching, and themember clubshave held their annual meetings, and arelooking forwardtothe 2025-2026 season.
Respectivepresidents and secretaries of the 12 clubs are:
KynetonDistrict SoccerClubMaroon playedCastlemaine Goldfields Football Club Green,their oldest, fiercest and most respected rivals, in the Womens CentralVictorian League 2Super CupFinal on Sunday. Castlemaine Green wonthe match despite astrong, consistenteffort from theKyneton Rangersplayers
Castlemaine opened thescoring with a quick firstgoal thatput Kynetononthe back foot.Rangersdominatedpossession and produced good tactical passages of playbut could notscore in the firsthalf
Early in the second half the Kyneton RangersscoredwithSian and her dynamic dribbling, navigating past multiple defenders, composed on theball, to scoreinamanner thatlookedeasy. Castlemaine regained controlofthe match, however, finishing the matchconvincingly to take thevictory Castlemaine Green,the better team on the day, wonthe final
Sian Hooppell, KynetonRangersstriker, wasnamed Player of the Matchfor the Super CupGrand Final.
Over the duration of the season Kyneton RangersMaroon were the stronger side overall, awarded the CentralVictorian league
2champions, and have earned promotion to League 1nextyear.
Coaches RonCole and Simone Hooppell praised the whole squad and expressed pride in the players’commitmentand development.
Kynetonhas developed manyplayers through its junior ranks, strengthening its women’s programand laying asolid foundation forsuccess in League 1nextseason.
Theclubhad much success in the junior ranks with all participating teamsand players, but aspecial mention and celebration goes to:
•Under 16A Mixedteam –Winnersof the Championship and Super Cup
•Under 12A Girls team –Championship RunnersUpand SuperCupRunnersUp
•Under 12A MixedplayerDjangonamed Player of the Matchfor the SuperCupGrand Final
•Under 12B Mixedteam –Winnersof the Champions and SuperCup
•Under 14B Maroon Mixedteam –SuperCup RunnersUp
•Under 14G Maroon Mixedteam –
Kyneton’sthe team to beat
"We're certainly looking forwardtoa very good season, both on and offthe green."
This condensed summation from KynetonBowling Club's recently elected presidentand lifemember John Wells came afterhehad sent down the firstbowl to open the 2025-26 season on Saturday. Wells, alife-time Kynetonresidentand retired pharmacist,has been aKBC member forthe past 45 years. He previously served as club presidentfor twoterms nearly 20 yearsago
SueFentonisthe club's newvice-president, and Shane McConville is secretary KynetonBowling Club wasestablished on December 20, 1876, and is recognised as the oldest bowls club in Victoria to operatecontinuously on the same site.
Wells said everyone who wasinvolved should be very proud of this splendid social and sporting resource in the town.
Thecommunity-orientatedclubhas twoquality grass greens, wheremembers generally have access sevendaysa week.
The2024-2025 season wasextraordinarily successful forKyneton, which was boosted by an influx of quality bowlers, headed by Greg Podesta (ex-Kangaroo Flat) who knocked up winning individual and team events
Kynetonteams wonthe toppennants in CentralHighlands Saturdayand midweek pennantand went on to succeed at regional leveland playinthe Champion of Champions.
Wells wasnot making anyflamboyant predictions forthe about-to-begin 202526 season, but other clubs clearly know Kynetonisentitled to be the one to beat again in pennant.
Lifemember Keith Reaper,another club stalwart, also sentdowna bowl (in theabsenceofthe tworeigning club champions)
Kynetonwas previously scheduled to host Strathmore in an annual pre-season fixtureonSaturday, but Strathmorewithdrew in lightofthe very cold weather forecast.Instead, Kynetonmembersproceeded withlunch and an intraclub game; all in all, an enjoyable day.
Theonly topflightbowler Kynetonhas lost from last season appears to be successful skipper John O'Donnell, nowat Port Melbourne.
Oneofthe newcomersjoining the club this season is Trentham club champion TimCook, who expectstobea permanent Kynetonresidentshortly.Heworks in the town.
TheKynetonclubwill welcome new members, irrespectiveofwhether they areestablished bowlers, or individuals just interested in learning about the sport.
Championship and SuperCup RunnersUp
ing forwardtocelebrating the
Rose wins Roosse w wiinns s prizemoney prriize mone
Kynetonrider Rose Coleman recently competed in the OffThe Track Carnival at Boneo Park Equestrian Centre taking home $1800 in prize money.
On Saturday September 13, 387 ex-racehorses attended the inaugural OTTCarnival, with over $200,000 in prizemoneyupfor grabs over various classesincluding dressage, showjumping, combined training and showing.
In the combined training, Rose and Heartwind had acalm dressagetest scoring 68.4 and were sitting in thirdplaceleading into the showjumping phase.Rose wasunaware of her ranking at the time,and managed to hold onto thirdwith aclear jumping round, securing $1300 in prizemoney. At just 15 yearsofage,Rose wasalsothe highest placed'Next Generation'rider and wasawarded an additional $500.
"Wehavesomanypeople to thankincluding long-time dressagecoach Anne Hall and showjumping coachKatePither,who have both put so much time into Rose overthe years,"said mum Kate Coleman.
"Weare also grateful to KynetonPonyCluband previous coachMellissa Confortiwho gave Rose the opportunitytolease her ponyStarbackin2020.
"Anyone withhorses understands the huge responsibility associatedwiththissport,not to mention the ongoing costs forlessons, tack, feed,farriers, memberships and competition fees
"Weare so grateful to all of the sponsorsofthis eventasRose can nowuse her prize moneytoput back into thesport thatshe is so passionate about."
Eaglehawk supreme
Anever-say-die Eaglehawk finished with aseven-goal last quarter to defeat hotsenior football favouriteSandhurst by 10 points in the BendigoLeague's senior grand final on Saturday.
It wasanastonishing performanceby the Hawks, who lost the second semi-final by over10goals to thestar-studded Dragons.. At quarter time, Sandhurst led by 28 points, and by four goalsathalf-time
Theinspired Hawks kicked 7.3 to 2.1 in ablistering finish.
Final scores were 14.10 (94) to 12.12 (84).
Eaglehawk'sBaileyIsleywon the Nalder Medal forbestonground, and teammate BenThompsonwas awarded the AFL
Victoria Medal. In the Reserves grand final, Golden Square4.9 (33) defeated Sandhurst 4.6 (30).
Sandhurst ranawaywith the Under 18s title 10.6 (66) to Golden Square's5.8 (38).
KANGAROOFLAT'S FLAG
TheA-grade netball grand final brought together some super starsofthe court. Kangaroo Flat,often close to atitle in recent years, delivered the goodswith a joyous 59-51 victory over Sandhurst. TheFlatcombination went through the season unbeaten, and recruiting of topline players ultimately paid off.
Sandhurst Under 17s won40-39 in a thriller against Strathfieldsaye
Bill West
Season open:John Wells sends down the firstbowlatKynetononSaturday.
Photo:Peter Ryan Photography
Rose Coleman competes in showjumping with her horse Heartwind. Photo: Tazzie Eggins Photography
KynetonDistrictSoccerClubislook-
competitive teams and forbeing part of the Rangers family at the end of season annual presentation celebration.
KynetonRangersMaroonwerenamed the CentralVictorian league 2champions,and have earned promotion to League 1nextyear.
Gisborne’s B-grade and B-reservepremiers
Gisborne’s twoflags
Gisborne netballerswon twopremierships on Saturdayasthe BendigoLeague's 2025 season wound down with an exciting dayatthe Queen Elizabeth Oval Aftera dominantseason, Gisborne B-gradersdefeatedKangaroo Flat 55-44. Hannah Weier wonthe medal forbestoncourt,repeating her 2024 performance. TheBulldogs fielded the following side: Emily McDonald, Georgia Murray,CharlotteMcMurray,Hannah Weier,CharlotteCrook,
Emma Joyce, Nirvana Martin, BellaConnors, MontyPaton, Taylor Ranieri, BellaConnors, Olivia Fenn. Gisborne supportersfound voiceastheir B-Reservegirls defeated Sandhurst 45-32. Theunstoppable ShelleyFarrugia wasbest on court.
BendigoCity Football Club's aspirational AllFemale Football Program's Under 17, Under 15 and Under 13 Girls soccersquads have excelled in their inaugural season in Football Victoria's Community Premier League in Melbourne. Allthree BendigoCity FC sides comprise players from the Castlemaine Goldfields Football Clubindicating the future of localfemale football is aliveand well.
BendigoCity FC head of female football, long-timeCastlemaine Goldfields FC member and coachGlen Springate said theywereincredibly proud of the girls' efforts in their inaugural seasons in the highly competitive metrocomps. "BendigoCity have hadboysteams in Melbourne competition fora number of yearsnow and with the backing of BendigoCity FC technical director Nathan Claridgeand the board, Iwas appointedtolead the establishmentofthe girls programin2025,"Springate said.
"Wewerethrilled to be able to field three squads in the Under 17s, Under 15s and Under 13s and whattheyhave been able to achieve in their inaugural seasons has exceeded all of our expectations!"
TheBendigoCity Under 17s side finished the 2025 season as CPL North West division champions and also claimed agrand final win at the hallowed'Home of the Matildas' at BundooraonSeptember 14. Theside defeated Mill Park 8-0 to claim the premiership. Topcap offthe season on ahigh note BendigoCity and Goldfields FC star RowanEdwards also wonthe 'Golden Boot'for the leaguewith awhopping 38 goalsfor the season.
TheBendigoCity Under 15 side also finished on topof the table claiming the CPL North West division championship and wontheir grand final bout against Sandringham 1-0 to claim the premiership. City'sCaitlin O'Brien kicking the winning goal.The BendigoCity Under 13 side also excelled finishing runners-up in thechampionship missing out on top
spotand agrand final berth by asingle goal
Giventhe unprecedentedsuccess of the juniorgirls sides this season, BendigoCity FC will nowlookfor Football Victoria's support to field an inaugural Senior Women'ssquad in the StateLeague competition in Melbourne in 2026 to continue to strengthen theWomen's Football pathwayfor regional players
"Weare also running avery successful Female DevelopmentProgram aimed at local BendigoAmateur Soccer League players to develop the talentofupand coming local players andrep squad members who can'tbepart of the metrosides due to club, work, study or family commitments to ensure they have the same opportunities to strengthen and further their skills as everyone else,"Springate said. EOIs forthe 2026 BendigoCity FC squads will be announced in the coming weeks. Interested local soccerplayersshould keep an eyeonthe BendigoCity FC socialsfor details.
BendigoCity FC head of female footballGlen Springate is pictured with CastlemaineGoldfieldsreps in the BendigoCity Under 17s side KirraTabet, Josie Turner,Rowan Edwardsand Edie Whitesmith celebrating their championship and premiership wins.
BendigoCity FC’s Under 15 Girlsalsowon theirchampionship. Castlemaine players in the squad include Frankie VanTiggelen, Neve Salpietro, Mara Reynolds and Madeleine Lane.
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$1,495,000 -$1,640,000
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This beautifully presentedbrick home (in asmall complex of four) offers alow-maintenance lifestyle in one of the town’smost convenientand covetedlocations. This three-bedroom, two-bathroom home is light-filled and inviting, withnorth-facing living areas that createawarm and comfortable atmospherethroughout theseasons. The practicallayout is complemented by asecurecar space and sitsonamanageable blockofaround 331m2
