Gisborne Gazette October 2025

Gisborne Gazette

Post Office plaudits

Gisborne Post Office won the Corporate Post Office of the Year award at Australia Post’s Our AP Ways Awards’ Night in Melbourne on 17 September. There were over 700 contenders within that category with only three shortlisted as finalists.

Speaking at the presentation, Australia Post’s Executive General Manager of Retail, Brand & Marketing, Josh Bannister, said, “I’m incredibly proud of Joe and the team at Gisborne Post Office being named Corporate Post Office of the Year. Joe’s dedication to providing an outstanding customer experience and his commitment to our customers is what makes him a valued part of the community.”

HOME PAGE

From the Editor's desk

Post Office Award

We applaud Joe Vella and his team at the Gisborne Post Office for pulling off this extraordinary achievement in competition with 700 Corporate Post Offices Australiawide. What a win!

Lot’s on in October

There is so much happening this month, especially over the weekend of 4-5 October, so we have moved ‘What’s On This Month’ to Page 5 to draw your attention to all the activities that you and your family might like to attend over those two days.

Gisborne & District Community Bank

Once again the bank has provided us with their annual report of their generosity to Gisborne and the wider district. On page 3 you will see that the bank has provided over half a million dollars to 46 community projects during 2024-25 and in doing so passed the total of $4 million provided locally in grants and scholarships since its inception in 2008. The Gisborne community owes a great debt of gratitude to the small group of residents who took the initiative to negotiate the establishment of this wonderful local institution.

Gazette Reception

The Gazette will be holding its annual reception at St Brigid’s Hall on Friday 17 October commencing at 6pm. This happy occasion allows the committee to thank the distributors, sponsors, columnists and regular reporters whose support enables the Gazette to continue. RSVPs are due by 8 October.

Victorian Seniors Festival

Tthe council has organised four events, but only one will be held locally. The other three will be in Castlemaine, Bendigo and Melbourne. See the notice on page 20 of the Macedon Ranges event.

Katrina is returning

Katrina is on her way back from her family trip around Australia and we will welcome her as she arrives in time for the November edition. Thank you to all the reporters and columnists for making my job of editing the last three editions in Katrina’s absence so pleasant.

Bryan Power

MINUTE WITH MAXINE

When Lorraine and Norman Broad moved from East Gippsland to Gisborne in 2013 to be closer to their family, it was her interest in native plants and bushwalking that sparked a friendship with the late Christine Young whom she met while Christine was delivering the Gazette to her home.

When Christine died suddenly, Lorraine took over Christine’s Gazette delivery area and has been delivering to letterboxes for five years. Her other interests include family history and travel.

Lorraine is a member of the Gisborne Bushwalkers and a member of a small group that walk three mornings a week around various parts of Gisborne.

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

Circulation 8000

Gazette Team

Editor: Bryan Power gisbornegazetteeditor@gmail.com 0417 140 828

Production Pip Butler 0439 816 278 pbutlerhistory@gmail.com

Photographer Chris Fleming 0417 322 944

Distribution Manager Maxine Barker 0438 711 138 maxineandpeter@bigpond.com

Advertising Maxine Barker 0438 711 138 gisbornegazetteadvertising@gmail.com

Social media Jenny Shipp

Distributors: Proudly distributed to letterboxes in Gisborne, New Gisborne, Macedon, Mt Macedon, South Gisborne and Bullengarook by more than 90 volunteers.

Where you can find the Gazette

Available online at www.gisbornegazette.org.au

DEADLINES FOR COPY AND ADVERTISING

DISCLAIMER

The views expressed in the Gazette are not necessarily those of the Gazette or its management committee unless acknowledged as such. No endorsement of products or services is implied by the listing of advertisers or sponsors. Any advice offered is intended for informational purposes only. It is not meant to replace or substitute for any professional advice. While every effort is taken in printing contributions accurately, the Gisborne Gazette takes no responsibility for errors.

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Copies of the Gazette are posted to subscribers each month for an annual subscription of $37.40 to cover postage. Payment can made through direct deposit online. Please contact Maxine on 0438 711 138.

OBITUARIES

To submit an obituary for publication, please email bryanp2@bigpond.com. Please also provide a photo for publication and restrict the article to about 300 words.

If you do not receive the Gazette in your letter box, you can collect a copy at: Gisborne: Post Office, Village Shopping Centre, Priceline Chemist, Hardy's UFS Pharmacy, Gisborne Medical Centre Brantome Street, Foodworks supermarket, Hello World Travel, Gisborne Library.

Mt Macedon: The Trading Post. Macedon: Post Office; United Service Station on Black Forest Drive.

New Gisborne: Baringo Food & Wine, Station Road; Smithy's Cafe, 3 Ladd Road. Riddells Creek: Newsagency Woodend: Coles supermarket.

The Gisborne Gazette acknowledges the Wurundjeri people as the traditional custodians of the land on which we live and work. We recognise their continuing connection to land, water and community, and pay respect to elders past, present and emerging.

She often says that Gisborne (whilst cold in the winter) is a great location to live as the “centre of the universe” being only about an hour from Ballarat (where she lived for 25 years), Bendigo, Geelong (where her elder son lives), Melbourne and, of course, good access to Tullamarine airport for travel.

Lorraine especially likes visiting New Zealand and from time to time a good neighbour, Ben, has been known to fill in for Lorraine when she is away travelling, and of course her grandchildren enjoy helping with the Gazette distribution if it means a bit of pocket money!

Maxine Barker Lorraine Broad

Financial year's end sees $518,000 returned by Community Bank

Community Bank Gisborne & District is celebrating its contribution to building thriving communities, with $518,718 returned to the southern Macedon Ranges, funding 46 projects, over the year to 30 June.

Mal Carter, the Chair of Macedon Ranges Community Enterprises Ltd, the social enterprise behind Community Bank Gisborne & District, said “We are proud to be part of the largest social enterprise movement in Australia, returning at least 80% of our profits to the local community each year in the form of grants, scholarships, sponsorships and donations.

community for the latest financial year.

“In financial year 2025, total contributions since our branch opened in 2008 reached $4 million, an incredible milestone that has only been possible thanks to our amazing community our shareholders who backed our community-built business from the beginning, our dedicated branch team who deliver legendary service every day and, most importantly, our customers who support their local community by banking with us.”

Dawn Service, a laser cutter for STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) classes at Gisborne Secondary College, a defibrillator for Macedon Ranges Dog Club, new pottery wheel for Macedon Ranges Further Education Centre, Gisborne.

Projects supported by Community Bank Gisborne & District in 2024-25 include Sponsorship of Riddell District Football Netball League, an emergency generator for Bullengarook CFA, the Mount Macedon Anzac Day

Other initiatives across the Macedon Ranges are also supported by Community Banks in Lancefield, Romsey and Trentham.

Overall, Bendigo Bank’s Community Bank network provided a record $50.2 million boost for grassroots and community building across 9327 projects in the financial year 2025, an increase of 23% on the previous year.

Submitted by Gemma Gamble Macedon Ranges Community Enterprises Ltd

Police Blue Ribbon Day honours service and deaths

Senior Constable Daniel

encouraging the community to reflect on the work of

the community.

Also, to remember the more than 170 officers who have been killed in the

Legislation tabled for Wombat Forest to become national park

Wombat Forestcare is celebrating the tabling of a bill to create the new Wombat-Lerderderg National Park.

24,000 hectares of the Wombat Forest will be conserved for our animals, plants and fungi and for future generations to enjoy.

Community group Wombat Forestcare congratulates the State Government for creating this national park and the Mt Buangor and Pyrenees National Parks, all incredibly important habitat for endangered creatures and plants.

Wombat Forestcare members and supporters, together with the Victorian National Parks Association, have campaigned for more than 14 years for the protection of the forest and its inhabitants.

The Wombat Forest provides habitat for many wonderful creatures including Greater Gliders and Powerful Owls; also, it is home to the critically endangered Wombat Leafless Bossiaea.

There are only five known plants in the wild and they are all in the Wombat Forest.

The legislation was tabled on 10 September, and is expected to be voted on in mid-October.

Gayle Osborne 0428 457 378 info@wombatforestcare.org.au

line of duty, including Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottat and Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson gunned down at Porepunkah on 26 August.

Blue Ribbon Day was observed on September 29, which coincided with National Police Remembrance Day. Blue ribbons can still be bought or donations made at Gisborne Police Station.

MACEDON MAIL

Spring is here with a bang. The days are getting longer and the gardens are beginning to pop.

Are you prepared for the upcoming fire season?

Access the CFA website (cfa.vic.gov.au) for information about the “Get Fire Ready” program for the 2025-26 Season.

The CFA offers a Property Advice Visit service. If you want to take up this service, phone 5426 3000 and a trained CFA member can visit your property and help you with a plan to help you prepare your property to survive a bush fire.

Saturday 13 September was Grand Final Day for the RDFNL senior men’s football and women’s netball. Macedon’s Under 19 boys brought home the premiership flag for us with a five point win over Kyneton. Unfortunately, the C Grade netballers could not match Gisborne Giants and in a thrilling game of men’s football, Macedon Seniors lost to Riddell in a hard-fought close game. The club is already in planning for season 2026.

The pitches have been uncovered and the men’s, women’s, boys’ and girls’ teams of the Macedon Cricket Club will soon start their seasons. Recruitment of new players has been great with a number of new local and international faces, as well as the stalwarts.

The club recently inducted three new life members: Rob Belcher, Steve Harrison and Rudy Jaros. A season launch and celebratory function is to take place on Saturday 4 October. All are welcome and details are available on the club’s website, macedoncricket.com.au/.

For the period 18 August to 18 September, 111mm of rain was recorded in Macedon. Rainfall for the year to date is almost the same as it was for the same time last year.

Have a great month!

If there’s anything you’d like to add to next month’s column please leave a message at the Macedon Post Office.

Anne

Slithering into snake season

As temperatures rise, snakes become more active, emerging from a period of reduced activity to seek food and mates. While they may be more visible, snakes generally pose little danger to people when left alone. The most effective way to stay safe is to simply leave them alone. This includes keeping pets on leads in areas where snakes are known to occur.

Remember:

Keep your yard tidy, clear away clutter such as timber piles and rocks.

Supervise pets, keep dogs on a lead and watch pets closely in high-risk areas. If you suspect a bite, seek immediate veterinary care.

Dress for the occasion; when out walking, wear long pants and proper shoes.

Don’t try to catch or harm a snake. Call a licensed snake catcher instead. There are snake catchers in Sunbury and in Melbourne who service this area.

In the case of a bite, call 000 immediately.

Snakes are protected under the Wildlife Act 1975, and capturing, harming, or killing them is illegal.

GREAT AGM

The GREAT Association Inc (Gisborne Region Events Activities & Tourism) will be holding its AGM on Wednesday 19 November at the Gisborne Bowling Club at 6pm.

All are warmly invited.

Garden Fair back on 4 and 5 October

10am to 4pm

One of the most keenly anticipated local events returns this month when the historically significant gardens at Bolobek, 370 Mt Macedon Road, Macedon, are opened to the public for the annual Garden Fair.

Since its inception in 2003, the Bolobek Garden Fair has grown to become one of the largest and most popular garden fairs in Victoria, hosting over 50 specialist and unique stallholders with over 3,000 people attending annually.

The network of stallholders is just the beginning. Throughout the weekend, you can explore the Bolobek gardens on guided tours, attend workshops, listen to keynote speakers, and enjoy book signings with special guests. Tickets can be bought via the Bolobek website: Adults $18, 16-year-old and under are free.

The keynote speaker this year will be Rodney Dunn from the Agrarian Kitchen in New Norfolk, Tasmania, Gourmet Traveller Restaurant of the Year 2024.

Eight days of free travel for Victorian seniors

Seniors across the state can take advantage of free public transport travel from Sunday, 5 October until Sunday, 12 October, Public Transport Minister Gabrielle Williams has announced.

The free travel applies for all forms of public transport

2 HOUR EXCLUSIVE SATURDAY RETREAT EXPERIENCE WITH CASSIE

GISBORNE GOSS

● Congratulations to Gisborne Bakery and Cafe, and in particular to its baker, Kimthai Seang (pictured), for their huge success in the Great Aussie Pie Competition. The bakery won several gold, silver and bronze medals for various pies, all baked in-house by Kimthai.

● New local business

Alchéme Medical (pictured) is a medical aesthetics and wellness clinic in Gisborne. Their services will include regenerative medicine treatments, skin health and rejuvenation, hair growth and restoration, and women’s inner health. It is next door to Gisborne Medical Clinic in Hamilton Street, not far from Tyrepower.

● The owners of Kaffeine Bar in Gisborne have opened Gogo’s Café in Victoria Street, Macedon

● Above: Work is proceeding steadily in Rotary Park in Kilmore Road, Gisborne, where Greater Western Water contractors Jaydo are excavating a very large hole in which they will construct a tank with a capacity of about 500,000 litres. This tank will hold surges of runoff during times of heavy rain thus protecting the rest of the sewerage system.

● A women's clothing boutique is moving into 32 Aitken Street, between Max Potential Fitness gym and Three Little Pigs cafe.

● Speaking of Max Potential Fitness, the gym, run by Matt and Jess, hosted a Hyrox event in September which drew 70 participants. Hyrox is a hybrid fitness competition that combines eight 1km runs with eight weights-related workouts, alternating between the running and the workout stations. In big venues it all takes place indoors. It is a rapidly growing new sport.

● The new clubhouse at Gisborne Golf course is taking shape (left), and a caterer has been appointed.

● An independent planning panel has approved Benatas's plans for the old hospital site in Hamilton Street, Gisborne, including the removal of covenant placed by the land's donor, the Dixon family, that the site always be used for health purposes. Benetas plans to build a threestorey retirement village on that part of the larger site.

Genealogy Group

President Heather Tumber thanks guest speakers

Professor Diane Hall, Bronwyn Quint and Clare Gervasoni at the Immigration

Genealogical Group activities

The Gisborne Genealogical Group held a very successful seminar in August on various aspects of Immigration to Victoria in the 19th century. The three speakers were interesting and informative.

Thanks to all members who helped in any way.

Our next Saturday Workshop will be held on 4 October. Julie Dworak will explain the new updates and latest version of Family Tree Maker, a very popular family history program. The workshops run from 10am till 12 noon.

The next meeting of our DNA Group (DIG) will be on Saturday 20 November at 10am. (DIG is held bimonthly) Come along if you need help understanding DNA and how it can affect your family history.

Our next general meeting will be on Thursday 23 October at 7.30pm. John Benson will speak about ‘Post WWII Immigration and Displaced People’. John is always an interesting speaker.

All are welcome to attend our meetings and workshops, held in the Family History Room, adjoining the Gisborne Library. The Family History room is open for research on Tuesdays 10am to 1pm, and Thursdays 2pm-5pm.

More information is available on our website www. ggg.org.au

Business can help support families this Christmas

MEMBER’S MESSAGE

With Mary-Anne Thomas, MP

Hello Gisborne community,

It was fantastic to catch up with the Gisborne Genealogical Group and celebrate the good news about Gisborne Library’s upgrade. With $457,500 in funding, the meeting room will be transformed into a modern, accessible space with better technology and extended hours for the Genealogical Group.

Over at Dixon Field, the future is shining bright for Gisborne Soccer Club. New LED lights are going in on the junior pitches, giving more kids the chance to train and play safely under lights. Funding came through a $200,000 from the State Government, alongside support from the council and the club.

I know cost-of-living pressures are front of mind for many families. That’s why the $100 Power Saving Bonus is now available for concession card holders. You’ll need a recent power bill and an eligible card, and there’s one payment per household.

Community organisations Sunbury Cobaw Community Health and Kyneton Baptist, and the Macedon Ranges Shire Council, are again partnering to support local families in need at Christmas, for the 15th year.

The partnership is again running the Gift Card program. By offering Gift Cards to local businesses, the program supports not only local families in need, but local economies at the same time. Organisers are seeking financial donations to make this possible.

Families will receive Macedon Ranges Gift Shop Gift Cards, with a set amount for each child. Gift Cards can be redeemed at participating local businesses.

"We hope to have as many businesses on board as possible, offering as many products and services as possible.

"We are asking that donations be received by 17 November to enable us to distribute the gift cards to families at the end of November."

If you are a Macedon Ranges business interested in joining in our Gift Card system for your store, we’d love to speak further and partner with you.

Donations can be made by direct deposit, cash and online. Find us on Facebook for more details, or contact Georgina Harvey, Macedon Ranges Gift Shop Coordinator, on 0404 442 891.

You can apply online at compare.energy.vic.gov. au by calling 1800 000 832, or through a participating community organisation. My office is also lending a hand just drop by with your documents Monday to Wednesday, 10am to 4pm. If you don’t have a concession, you can still check that you are on the cheapest energy plan at compare.energy.vic.gov.au

If you are struggling with bills, the Energy Assistance Program (1800 161 215) is available for oneon-one support.

With spring here, a reminder that the firewood collection season is now open. From 1 September to 30 November, residents can collect firewood for personal use from designated areas in state forests. Visit www. ffm.vic.gov.au/firewood for more information.

As always, I’m here to help on any state government matters. You can email mary-anne. thomas@parliament.vic.gov.au, call 5428 2138, or visit my electorate office team at Shop 14 Nexus Centre, Goode Street, Gisborne.

COMMUNITY SERVICE

Foodbank farewells longtime stalwart, welcomes new ops manager

Gisborne Foodbank has farewelled long-serving Operations Manager Lynne Margret, who has volunteered over 3,500 hours since taking on the role in mid-2021. Lynne made a significant impact on the lives of Foodbank clients and the wider community, known for her compassionate, non-judgemental approach and her dedication to connecting clients with additional support services. In recognition of her outstanding service, Lynne received the 2023 Local Hero Award — a testament to her commitment and care.

Stepping into the role is Jen Austerberry, who brings a wealth of experience from her career as an emergency nurse and academic. Jen has been a volunteer at the Foodbank since moving to the Macedon Ranges four years ago. She’s excited to take on this new challenge, combining her professional skills with her strong values in helping others.

The Gisborne Foodbank extends heartfelt thanks to Lynne for her incredible contribution and warmly welcomes Jen into her new role.

Gisborne Carols by Candlelight Local Hero nomination

Nominations have opened for the 2025 Local Hero Award that will be presented at the Gisborne Community Carols on Sunday December 7 at Dixon Field. If you know of someone who has dedicated much to the Macedon Ranges community in a voluntary capacity and deserves recognition, please nominate them, and let us know their community contributions.

We look forward to celebrating another Local Hero at this year’s Carols.

Please send nominations to gisbornelocalhero@ gmail.com by November 14, or contact Bronwyn Tacey on 0417 028 605 for further information.

Gisborne Community Carols Committee

'Creatives' to receive funding boost

Community groups in Macedon Ranges are encouraged to bring their creative ideas to life in 2026, with the next round of the Small Regional Presenters program now open.

Regional community groups and not-for-profit organisations are invited to apply for this State Government program, enabling them to attract and present performing arts events in their communities. Grants up to $15,000 are available to support the presentation of events.

For further details about the program and to apply, visit the Regional Arts Victoria website rav.net.au

Poppy appeal fast approaching

Looking ahead, ‘Poppy Appeal’ is fast approaching. We will be out and about again selling badges.

So, expect to see our people at various locations around Gisborne, Macedon and Riddells Creek.

Each November, Australians pause to reflect on the service and sacrifice of our veterans. By supporting the Poppy Appeal, residents do more than remember: they are making a real difference in the lives of veterans and their families.

For over a century, RSL Victoria has walked alongside veterans through every stage of life. Every poppy sold and every dollar raised through this appeal helps ensure that no veteran is left behind.

When you wear a poppy or make a donation, you are standing beside someone who has served our nation. You are helping provide essential support, from mental health care and housing assistance, to employment services and community connection.

The Gisborne Remembrance Day commemoration service will be conducted at 11am on 11 November at the Gisborne cenotaph.

If you intend to lay a wreath of remembrance at the ceremony or alternatively would like our sub-branch to lay one on your behalf, in both instances could you please contact our secretary on 0487 278 681.

The next Gisborne RSL sub-branch general meetings will be held at the Gisborne Bulldogs Football Club starting at 1.30pm in October and December.

Current and ex-serving members of the ADF, members of the emergency services and those members of the community that share the values of RSL are welcome to attend.

Please advise our secretary via email at: admin@ gisbornersl.com.au, or leave a message on the Gisborne RSL Facebook page or our Instagram page.

Darren Grevis-James President

Macedon Ranges Wildlife Network reinvigorated

Macedon Ranges Wildlife Network has entered an exciting new chapter, led by a refreshed committee and a surge of new members.

Membership has grown beyond 60 and continues to rise, bringing new skills in web design, business management, photography, multi-media and marketing. These contributions have already delivered a refreshed online presence with interconnected social media and a modern website offering online registrations and donations. See the new Facebook page: facebook.com/macedonrangeswildlifenetworkinc .

Building on strong foundations

The Network proudly acknowledges its long-standing members, past and present, whose commitment created the foundation for today’s achievements. Their legacy is being carried forward with renewed energy, new systems, expanded training and stronger community engagement.

Training, advocacy and grants

Recent grants from Macedon Ranges Shire Council, the Lancefield & Romsey Community Bank and Qantas and donations from the Stokes Foundation (Mt Macedon) and the GREAT Association have supported essential registrations and administrative costs associated with good governance, while also enabling specialist wildlife training programs — including macropod rescue, foster carers’ training and humane euthanasia skills — and providing resources for our upcoming community market stalls.

The network also fronted the Parliamentary Inquiry into Wildlife Roadstrike in Bendigo, ensuring the voices of rescuers and the community were heard.

This month, the Network will host stalls at markets across the Macedon Ranges as part of Wildlife Awareness Month. Visitors can learn how to create wildlifefriendly gardens, install wildlife-friendly fencing, and respond if they find or accidentally hit an animal.

Macedon Ranges Wildlife Network has proudly achieved charity status and now holds Deductible Gift Recipient status, making donations and sponsorships tax deductible. The network is actively seeking partnerships with local businesses who want to invest in wildlife welfare and community resilience. Meaghan Willis

Contribute to the Gisborne Festival

The 2025 Lions Gisborne Festival is fast approaching, with the event planned for Friday 12 December. The Gisborne and District Lions Club has been delivering the Festival since 2016. It will cost around $30,000 to produce this year’s free community event, funds which must be raised by the Lions Club, mainly from sponsors.

The Festival is free and inclusive and brings the community together to celebrate the festive season. It is expected to attract around 4500 people.

The Festival begins with a street parade, and on Gardiner Reserve there will be live music and entertainment, free children’s activities, market and food stalls and carnival rides, culminating in a fireworks display.

Contributing can take a number of forms, such as providing sponsorship funding, participating in the parade, having a market or food stall, or helping on the day with set up and the winding up at the Festival's conclusion.

If you can assist in any way, please email your details to gisbornefestival@gmail.com or contact the Lions Club President, Russell Walker, on 0419 318 615.

The proceeds from the recent Lions Father’s Day raffle have been directed to assisting local students from families in need. Raffle winners were Greg Jones, Sophie Cousins, Kevin Moody, Allison Opie, Melanie Jorgenson, Erin Kelly and John Taylor.

The Lions Club is extremely appreciative of the community’s support of its fundraising activities.

CWA branches at work at daffodil festival

Gisborne CWA

The Daffodil Festival in Kyneton proved to be a very busy weekend in the middle of September for five branches of the CWA.

The Kyneton branch decorated the Masonic Hall, set the tables and prepared for the crowds. Some worked in the kitchen, made cups of tea and coffee and sold raffle tickets.

Macedon ladies ran the cake stall on the Saturday with all sorts of delicious goodies and preserves. Sunday saw Romsey branch take over with more cakes available.

Craigieburn branch, part of our Central Highlands Group, looked after the plant stall, with all sorts of greenery.

Gisborne ladies ran the craft stall with a wide array of sewn and knitted items, some beautiful gifts for children or the household.

Kathy and I worked in the kitchen with others from Macedon and Kyneton preparing sandwiches, soup and scones.

All the branches supplied items to all the stalls and overall, it was a very tiring but satisfying weekend, with a shared profit to benefit the community.

Our AGM on Monday 13 October is at 10am at the Stadium at Gisborne Secondary College; Coffee, Craft and Chat the following Monday (20) at 10am.

Christine Edwards

MACEDON & MOUNT MACEDON COMMUNITY HOUSE

October News

Volunteers needed!

The Macedon and Mount Macedon Community House is organising volunteers for the Duneria Bluebell Festival on 25 and 26 October. If you are interested contact our team at admin@mmmcommunityhouse.org/ for more information.

Wide-ranging itinerary for Probus Club

The Gisborne Probus Club offers opportunities for members to come together for outings as well as monthly meetings.

The August outing was a coach trip to the Victoria Police Museum in Melbourne. Those who attended were impressed by the variety and quality of displays ranging from the beginnings of Victoria Police through to modern policing and technology. This visit was followed by a very enjoyable lunch at The Clare Castle Hotel in Port Melbourne.

Monthly meetings usually include a guest speaker. Among recent examples, author Lorraine Smith presented illustrated highlights of her travels in Africa. Janet Wood spoke about the influence the legend of Helen of Troy has had over many centuries and cultures. Pauline Brown outlined the difficulties faced by many refugees in Australia and the work of Macedon Ranges Rural Australians for Refugees to raise awareness and support. Most recently James Cardwell outlined the range of coach tours offered by his company.

If you have an interest in joining the club why not visit our next meeting on Thursday 2 October in the Gisborne Community Centre at 10am, or contact our president Gary Jones on 0458 841 947.

Recycling at the House

The House is open on Fridays 10am – 12pm. Drop by and check out what is happening in the garden, pick up your orange bags for soft plastic recycling, and browse the little street library in the House foyer. Did you know that the House is also a drop-off point for those hard to recycle items, including batteries, plastic bottle caps, printer cartridges, pens and markers, toothpaste tubes and electric toothbrush heads?

House Hire

The House is a great space to hire (including the garden) for meetings or events. More information can be found on the website: www.mmmcommunityhouse.org

Regular programs

Canasta Club – Wednesdays 2pm-5pm

New players welcome to drop in, gold coin for tea and coffee.

Permaculture Group: Permies at the House – Fridays 11am-12.30pm. See Permies@theHouse on Facebook for activities.

Community Gardening Volunteer Crew – Fridays 9.30am-11am. Come along and help keep our garden at its best!

Playgroup – Mondays 10am-12pm and Wednesdays 9.30am-11.30am. New families are welcome to join our free playgroups. Email playgroup@mmmcommunityhouse.org for details.

Craft Circle – Thursdays 10am-12pm. Bring your own sewing, knitting or craft project and meet creative, likeminded locals.

Community Library – Fridays 10am-12pm. We have a little community library find something to read or just come along and say hello and find out what is happening at the House.

Warhammer Club – every second Sunday 3pm-6pm. Play 40K, AOS and anything in between! All Warhammer players above 12 are welcome.

Macedon Produce Swap – 1st and 3rd Saturday of every month 9.30am-10.30am. Held at the front of the House.

Gentle Yoga – Wednesdays 6.30pm-7.30pm

For more information and to discuss pre-requisites and fees, contact Loris at loriscassar@gmail.com.

New Programs – We have room in our calendar for more programs if you are interested in running a regular group or activity. Contact hello@mmmcommunityhouse.org/ and we can organise one of the committee to discuss this with you.

More information about programs is available on the M&MMCH website www.mmmcommunityhouse.org

Do you know a nearby rural landowner who might have a cottage (derelict or otherwise) on their property, that with a bit of effort and materials, might be

to house a single person for a

or two whilst I downsize from my home I am selling on Mt Macedon and buying local land and building on it something more suitable in terms of size?

If so, please email me at sevclarke@icloud.com

More beds, more staff to help tackle addiction

People experiencing drug and alcohol addiction will be further supported with the expansion of Arrow Health’s rehabilitation clinic in Woodend.

The Minister for Health and Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas, visited the clinic which now has an additional eight beds and 55 staff for the care and treatment of patients — on 16 September.

Supported by a State Government $600,000 investment, the $2.1 million expansion will allow Arrow Health to deliver more of its essential services to help people affected by addiction and their families.

The project featured the construction of a rehabilitation cottage, upgrades to car parking and ambulance access, and the refurbishment of existing rooms, more than doubling annual in-patient treatment capacity to approximately 240 and out-patient care from 80 to approximately 180 patients each year.

Free Men’s Night with the suicide

prevention

group

The night is designed to provide a safe, relaxed setting for men of all ages to come together, build community, and have honest conversations about mental health — something that too often goes unspoken.

A highlight of the evening is a keynote presentation by Mark Thomas, a former police sergeant turned passionate mental health advocate. Drawing on his own lived experience of PTSD, anxiety, and depression, Mark will share his compelling journey through mental ill-health and recovery.

Community Pharmacy Program now permanent

The State Government is making the successful Community Pharmacist pilot a permanent program, to support accessible, affordable healthcare in local communities.

Under the expanded program, pharmacists will continue offering services to treat urinary tract inferctions, skin conditions, the resupply of oral contraceptives, and the range of vaccine treatments first introduced through the pilot. Most consultations will remain free to ensure services remain accessible. In Gisborne you can visit Priceline Pharmacy and Hardy’s UFS Pharmacy.

Local Member and Health Minister MaryAnne Thomas cuts the ribbon with Arrow Health CEO Toby Lawrence.

His story is one of resilience, growth, and transformation, offering a powerful message: that it is possible to thrive after even the darkest of times. Through open and honest conversation, Mark encourages others to speak up, reach out, and realise that they are not alone.

Details: Mount Macedon Golf Club, Thursday 23 October, 6pm.

Inclusions: Free barbecue dinner, meat-tray giveaways and free merchandise. Registrations via Eventbrite at: eventbrite.com/e/stand-together-mens-wellness-bbqand-forum-tickets-1486531990199

2025 Relay for Life

Don’t forget to register your team for the rescheduled 2025 Macedon Relay for Life, on Saturday 8 November at Lancefield Park, 11am to 8pm.

For enquiries and more information go to Lancefield 2025 Relay For Life or contact Renee at Cancer Council Victoria Renee.Gani@cancervic.org.au

Holistic support for those suffering chronic pain

People suffering chronic pain not only deal with physical symptoms, they also face daily challenges with mental wellbeing and maintaining relationships. Macedon Ranges Health has run a free program this year on a periodic basis for residents dealing with chronic pain.

The four-week Macedon Ranges Health Chronic Pain program creates a safe and welcoming space where participants can learn practical strategies and connect with others facing similar challenges.

It is delivered by experienced health professionals, including dieticians, occupational therapists and physiotherapists, focusing on medical management, movement, nutrition and mental health.

The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with participants saying “the program was fantastic and worthwhile” and “it was great to feel heard as well as meet others going through similar things.” The most recent program was held in September. Please contact Macedon Ranges Health on 5428 0300 if you would like information about the next chronic pain program.

Lap it UP in October for mental health change

In 2018, Gisborne father and daughter team Sean and Kirsten McKinney hosted a 2866-lap swim at the Gisborne pool — one lap for every life lost to suicide in the previous year. What began as a heartfelt community effort has since grown into a powerful national campaign.

Today, Youth Live4Life proudly continues the McKinneys’ legacy through the annual event LAP it UP — promoting

connection, resilience, and mental wellbeing in communities across Australia. All funds raised support Live4Life, the award-winning, evidence-based mental health education and youth suicide prevention program for rural and regional communities.

LAP it UP is a four-week fitness and fundraising challenge running from 1 to 28 October, in which every lap people swim helps change lives. Whether participants are swimming in the ocean, a pool, or even a backyard wading pool — if they’re moving, they’re making a difference. Participants choose the distance, location, and pace. Entry is free – so register today at lapitup.org.au

Men’s Shed celebrates 10th year in

new

shed, and the blokes who enjoy it

In August the Men's Shed celebrated the 10th anniversary in our Lyell Street Shed.

To put things in perspective, a Men’s Shed is a community health facility. Back in 2011, Macedon Ranges Health understood that and established the Gisborne Men’s Shed as an entity, registered with the Australian Men’s Shed Association as Shed No 85. There are now over 1200 registered sheds in Australia so we are right near the front of the queue. Since that official establishment in 2011 we have had some periods without a Shed. The first time was from early 2014 to mid-2015 while the new Macedon Ranges Health Centre was being built and we had to evacuate, before moving in to the current premises. But the Shed organisation never wavered. Thanks to the local Historical Society we had the use of the Court House in Hamilton Street two mornings a week for our most important activity, drinking tea and telling tall stories!

Choosing the right replacement Dental Talk Dental Talk with

Dr Megan Tran

Losing a tooth is more than a cosmetic concern. Even a single gap can make chewing less efficient, move neighbouring teeth out of place, and in the long run affect the way your bite fits together. Many people also feel self-conscious about smiling or speaking.

Replacing a missing tooth not only restores appearance but also protects your oral health and helps maintain confidence in day-to-day life. Thankfully, modern dentistry offers reliable solutions to bring back both function and aesthetics. The two most common long-term options are dental implants and dental bridges.

Dental implants are widely regarded as the gold standard. An implant is a titanium post placed into the jawbone, acting like an artificial root to support a crown. Because it bonds with the bone, it looks, feels, and functions very much like a natural tooth. One patient recently told us they’d “forgotten which tooth was the implant” — a common experience once treatment is complete. Implants also help protect the jawbone from shrinking, supporting longterm facial structure. While they take more time to complete, their strength and longevity often make them worth the wait.

Most of our work is for our community. Activities are largely based on the old saying “doing good makes you feel good” and our aim is therefore to connect strongly with and add value to our community. And fortunately that same community continues to support us.

But our biggest contribution is

Then in 2020 and 2021, like everywhere and everyone else, we were closed for many weeks due to COVID. But through weekly newsletters and occasional Zoom sessions, we kept members connected to each other and our community and in 2022 we won a national award for doing just that.

keeping our Shedmen out of hospital ... at least most of the time, by giving them a purpose. We have a high success rate of reconditioning grumpy old retirees into happy, connected, community contributors.

Given our demographic, most of us are here for a good time, not necessarily a long time. We have about 55 active members but since the Shed organisation started back in 2011, over 200 local men have benefited in some form or other. Ken

Dental bridges are another effective option. A bridge fills the gap by attaching to the neighbouring teeth with crowns. They are quicker to complete, usually within a few weeks. Many patients appreciate that they can walk out with their smile restored in a relatively short time. The main consideration is that the adjacent teeth are prepared to support the bridge, and bridges do not maintain bone in the way implants do.

Dentures remain available but are often less comfortable and less stable, so they’re generally a last resort today.

Every smile is unique! It’s important to consult with your trusted dental professional to find the option that best fits your health, budget, and long-term goals.

Bushwalkers have spring in their step

Spring is finally here, and the early signs have been evident on our recent bushwalks with the wattle and heath blooming and the first indications that it will be a great year for wildflowers and orchids.

A trip to Kooyoora State Park drenched in sunshine provided perfect conditions to explore Melville Caves and the large granite boulders with picture-perfect views from the various lookouts across the park.

Next on the calendar was a two-day base camp at Queenscliff, undertaking several walks along the Rail Trail and shoreline, plus exploring attractions such as the only black lighthouse in Australia at Fort Queenscliff.

September was Try Bushwalking Month, and we welcomed visitors on our walks to Bald Hill and Trentham to introduce them to this great activity and our great team of members.

There is a great range of walks on our calendar, and we welcome anyone to come and give bushwalking a go. Spring is the perfect time to get moving and enjoy our wonderful bushland and iconic trails.

Thursday 2 October is our AGM with a great guest speaker on getting better as we get older and keeping our brains as healthy as our bodies.

Our many and varied walks and activities have something for everyone so if you would like to give bushwalking a try you can join us as a casual participant for $5 (insurance coverage) and see if it’s for you.

For details about the Gisborne Bushwalking Club, please contact Secretary Jenny on 0438 691 801 or our President Gail on 0419 374 603. Our website is www. gisbornebwc.org.

Deborrah

Hello from the Ramblers

This is usually the best time of year for walking: temperatures not too hot, bushfire risk low and the spring growth is fresh.

Of course it cannot last. Soon the fire ban days will be with us and the northerly winds. So now is the time to make the most of it!

The Ramblers have been busy over the last month with walks ranging from Newham to Coimadai, Riddells Creek to Bullengarook. The coming month should see us walking at Blackwood, Tarradale and Kyneton - all being well.

I have detailed the Coimadai walk, a little more challenging than our normal walks but something you may like to try.

Charles (gisramblers@gmail.com)

RAMBLERS WALK Antimony Mine

Distance: Approximately 8km Level: Medium

This is an interesting scenic and bush walk with a historical focus. The mine opened in the 19th century and closed in 1905. It was reopened during WWII and worked between 1942-44.

Antimony is a metallic element, mainly used as an addition to other metals to improve their properties, and finds its use in paint, batteries and electronic devices. It is rarely used as a stand-alone product, the exception being the ancient Egyptians who used it as eyeliner (Kohl).

Getting there: From Gisborne: drive towards Bacchus Marsh. Take the turn towards Diggers Rest - this

is the Diggers Rest-Coimadia Road. After passing the Merrimu Reservoir, look for and turn into Antimony Mine Road.

Follow the road to its termination and park. There is a gate with access to the state park.

The walk begins with a steady upward gradient on a wide dirt track. Take your time, this is perhaps the hardest part of the walk. Eventually a peak is reached and then a descent to a dry creek. At this point a T-junction offers the option of left to the Antimony Mine or right to Mount Sugarloaf.

Follow the Antimony option - this leads alongside the creek (usually dry) with an occasional crossing. Along the way, a defined track merges from the left, on the return from the mine; taking this track will give a shortcut back.

Continue on until reaching the wire mesh bridge. This is great fun to cross, but can be bypassed on the left if preferred. After crossing, look out for some collapsed brickwork and twisted old rail line on the left, this is the start of the mining area. Walk a further 100m and look out for the processing foundations over the creek on the right. These are a sandy-coloured concrete and tend to blend in with the hillside. The creek needs to be crossed again to access the foundations, which are extensive and well worth exploring.

Return the same way you came in.

Australia Day Grants are coming soon

The Australia Day Grants support community groups to hold free events/ acknowledgment ceremonies to mark 26 January in a way that is respectful of all community members. These events can be hosted on any day, one week before or after 26 January 2026 (between 19 January and 2 February).

The council recognises that Australia Day/26 January is not a day of celebration for all, especially for First Nations Australians. Any activities funded through this program should align to the council’s current vision: “With our unique regional identity, Macedon Ranges Shire embodies a caring, resilient approach to community through our robust local economy, protection of the natural environment and a collaborative commitment to inclusivity for all.”

Groups can apply for up to $1000 per group/event.

Applications are opening soon, keep an eye on the council webpage mrsc. vic.gov.au/About-Council/Find-A-Grant/ Australia-Day-Grants for details on how to apply.

Getting your garden summer ready

Between Monday 27 October and Sunday 2 November, Council is providing a free green waste disposal week. This will help residents dispose of large amounts of green waste at our three Resource Recovery Facilities.

Residents may visit as many times as required during the week. Only residential loads will be free of charge; large trucks will not be accepted.

Residents are reminded that free green waste drop-off vouchers were included in the most recent edition of the ShireLife magazine.

Free, self-loaded mulch is available from all Resource Recovery Facilities to assist you in getting your garden ready for summer.

For more information visit mrsc.vic. gov.au/green-waste

This month's Councillor's Column, by Cr Alison Joseph,  page 34

NEWS FROM THE COUNCIL

Equine Land Management Grazing course

The course has been designed to assist horse owners to improve their skills and knowledge about grazing horses. The course explores methods to increase soil health and perennial pasture species (including native species) while maintaining the health of horses.

It is structured for small land owners (2 to 20ha) with grazing horses and designed to use the resources and time you have available to improve your property. The course is presented by Jason McAinch, the council’s Private Land Conservation Officer, with a local horse owner.

The course will run across three sessions: Friday 17 October, 31 October, and 14 November, from 2 to 6pm. On completion of the course, an optional one-hour, one-on-one practical property visit to your property will be available.

Further information can be found at mrsc.vic.gov.au/Live-Work/Environment/ Land-Management/Healthy-Landscapes #section-3

Rob Guthrie elected to South Ward Councillor vacancy

Rob Guthrie has been elected to Macedon Ranges Shire Council, following a countback by the Victorian Electoral Commission of formal ballot papers from the last general election.

The countback was conducted on Monday 1 September, to fill an extraordinary vacancy in the South Ward following the passing of the late Christine Walker in August.

Votes were redistributed to candidates in the South Ward who were unsuccessful at the 2024 general election, and who remained eligible to participate in the countback. Following the countback, the VEC declared Rob Guthrie, a former councillor in the last term, as the successful candidate to fill the vacancy.

Rob has accepted the nomination and commenced in the role of councillor after he was officially sworn in.

Gallery springs inty October

The members of The Gallery will celebrate spring in the Macedon Ranges with an exhibition that begins on Monday 6 October and runs until Sunday 2 November. There will be a range of spring-inspired art and crafts created by these talented artists from the Macedon Ranges area.

Spring brings joy to us all with brighter days and a magic array of bulbs in gardens. You will find your spirits lifted with the displays that allow you to experience the season for longer in the various representations on show during this exhibition.

Come and meet Mildred, the Gallery and garden centre Scottish short-hair supervisor.

Mildred wandered into the garden centre one day and has never left. He (yes correct, definitely He) will you with his soft meow, dressed in his grey coat. He has a habit of napping in the most unexpected places and drinking water out of the tap and has become well loved amongst customers and gallery members.

The Gallery is open 10am to 4pm Friday to Tuesday at 684 Mt. Macedon Road, Mt. Macedon (behind the Trading Post). Any enquires - contact Sue Anson on 0413 581 632.

Spells, wizards and fun for the whole family at the Mountview Theatre

The Mount Players presents its final show for 2025…Puffs, or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic, is a fast-paced, hilarious play that reimagines the story of a famous boy wizard — from the perspective of the overlooked and underdog students in the ‘Puffs’ house.

Across seven chaotic years, this heartwarming comedy follows Wayne and his misfit friends as they navigate spells, dangers, and growing up, proving that being third place is not so bad after all.

Perfect for wizards and non-wizards alike, Puffs is a magical and charming celebration of friendship, bravery, and finding where you belong.

The season runs from 7 to 23 November.

For full details & bookings go to www. themountplayers.com Note: A change to performance times for this show: Friday evenings at 7.30pm and Sat/Sun performances at 2pm.

See you at the theatre.

The results are in

The Macedon Ranges Photographic Society

had the judging of our in-house competition recently. The set subject was ‘double exposure’.

This involved combining two different images into one frame. Local photographer Emily Black was our judge. It was a challenging subject which club members embraced and produced some fabulous images. Some images were produced in camera; others were combined using post-production software. The submitted images included candle in a light bulb, a face forming the centre of a flower, a flower being the sun setting, boats and seashells, a boardwalk and shoreline converging.

For the October walkabout we are planning to visit the lavender farm and in November we will be having a laugh during our photo catastrophes night.

From now we are on our summer meeting schedule; the first and second Monday of the month, social chats start at 7pm for a 7.30pm start. Jubilee Hall, Smith Street, Macedon. For more information, please email info@macedon-ranges-photography.org.au

Sue Steward

Craft

Corner with Mary-Beth O’ Brien

'Slow' pastimes

The rise of cosy hobbies among Gen Z is gaining strength as a means of developing deeper connections with community.

Traditionally, crafts such as pottery, painting, drawing and crochet are associated with the older generation. However, as borders diminish through the use of global technologies, the greater the community need to be creative in a fast-paced world. Thus, the emergence of ‘slow’ pastimes.

Making sense of life is not a new phenomenon, however making beauty in the everyday takes imagination, planning and resourcing.

Crochet ticks all the boxes. Inexpensive and portable, crochet can be done waiting for the plane, train or bus; over coffee with friends or even dinner. It is also instrumental in boosting feelings of confidence, creativity and networking with the broader crochet community - artisans and beginners and everyone in between.

Last call for the Annual Sunbury Agricultural Show on 11 October. Online registration closes on 8 October, in-person registration Wednesday 1 October, 6.30pm to 8pm.

Crochet and Conversation

So put the phone down and join us for ‘Crochet and Conversation’, a welcoming group of all ages.

Meetings are the first Monday of the month at 2pm at the Gisborne Library. Bring wool and hook to enjoy an hour or two of crochet with like-minded individuals.

SHOWS AT KYNETON TOWN HALL

Clare Bowditch in Concert 4pm, Sunday 12 October

Clare Bowditch ARIA-award-winning musician and ABIA-award-winning author has a rich load of brand-new songs and stories she would love to share She also has a few old ones that could do with a little attention.

Clare Bowditch invites music lovers to join her for a rare, extremely intimate, entertaining live duo show, co-created with perhaps one of the tallest multi-instrumentalists in the world, Martin W Brown.

To find out more about this event and buy tickets, visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/KTH-events or contact the Box Office on 1300 888 802 (Monday to Friday 10am-3pm).

Breast cancer doesn’t define you,

Small Talk

Five minutes with folk about town. This month Phoebe Hartley visits a tiny local farm run by Gabrielle Draper, 35, in a converted laundry room.

Gabrielle: I’ve lived in Gisborne over 10 years. I grew up in Romsey, moved to Reservoir to study nursing, then moved back here to Gisborne with my nowhusband, and we’re here to stay. It’s a great community here, and I’ve got family close by. Everyone’s really lovely and supportive, and I have great friends here.

I’m on long service leave from nursing at the moment, and I’m working on my small business growing microgreens, to help people’s health through food. I grow microgreens and I sell them to chefs and restaurants, and I also sell them at markets. Today I’m watering, tomorrow I’ll be washing all the trays that I grow them in, and then I’ll be sowing the next fortnight’s batch. Most of them take about 11 or 12 days to grow, and some varieties, like lemon balm and coriander, take three weeks. I love chervil, or French parsley. It’s got a slightly anise flavour to it, and it’s really good with cream cheese on a bagel with a homemade pickle.

I also play the piano, and I love gardening, and just enjoying time with my kids. We like to do craft activities and they like to play piano with me. We’ve built a garden so that they can have a big playground with nature, it’s a good place to play.

I want to ‘grow health’ every day for the community. I’d love to get into schools and do educational programs about ultra-processed food as a detriment to our health, and proper food as medicine.

WHAT'S

ON AT GISBORNE LIBRARY THIS MONTH

October is National Mental Health month, and we are excited to be hosting Jacqui Louise Swallow for an author-talk on Friday 17 October at 2pm to discuss her book The Bipolar Runner

Jacqui has lived with bipolar disorder all her life, battling crippling anxiety, debilitating depression, and destructive, whirlwind manic episodes. The only thing that has consistently helped her, more than medication, practising gratitude or mindfulness, is running - beginning with a few small steps and culminating in running the Melbourne Marathon.

Jacqui will share the story of her journey, one of pushing and challenging herself, defying expectations, and achieving something truly exceptional.

Book sales and signings will be available.

Astronomy for seniors (55+)

Thursday 23 October, 11am. Join the folk from Bendigo Discovery Science and Technology Centre to explore

the wonders of the universe - right in Gisborne library. Journey through space to explore planets, stars, and galaxies. Discover fascinating facts about the cosmos and uncover the beauty of the night sky in this immersive space experience bookings required.

Join us for IttyBitty playdate on Wednesdays on the back deck from 2 to 3pm. Come along for a relaxed catch-up with other local families, grab a cuppa, and have a chat while the little ones play together in a welcoming space.

Don’t forget that your library card gives you free access to StoryBox Library, a streaming platform featuring favourite children’s books read aloud by Australian authors, actors and storytellers. It’s perfect for athome story time anytime.

Check the Goldfields website, Macedon Ranges Libraries socials, or call 5428 3962 for further details or to book in for one of our wonderful events. Jacqui

Look out! Swooping season is here. Stay alert and stay safe

As the weather gets warmer and the days longer, we also start to see the occasional swooping bird. Native birds enter their breeding season in spring, and some may get protective of their young.

Swooping is a normal, temporary behaviour for native birds such as magpies, butcherbirds and masked lapwings to defend their eggs and chicks for a short time while their young are most vulnerable.

Not all birds swoop during the breeding season, so the presence of magpies or other common swooping birds does not necessarily mean you will be swooped.

Report a swooping incident on Victoria’s interactive swooping bird map by visiting: www.wildlife.vic.gov.au/ managing-wildlife/swooping-birds

Please note that all native wildlife is protected by law. Harassing, harming or disturbing native birds and other wildlife is illegal in Victoria and penalties apply. You can report wildlife crime to Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000.

Spring into spring with Dog Obedience Club

Everyone is looking forward to some warmer weather finally arriving. It’s a great time to start your puppies/dogs in training with us (yes, our canine friends of all ages can benefit). Still unsure? Let us provide some further information to assist;

Puppies must be a minimum age of 16 weeks and fully vaccinated before they can start training.

Do you have an older dog and wonder if training is appropriate? The answer is “of course”! We have many dogs that have joined our club as adults.

The saying ‘you can’t teach an old dog new tricks’ could not be more untrue.

Slightly worried that your dog may not be good with other dogs? We understand that some dogs need a little more space. Contact us first before you come with your dog.

We can meet and assess your dog and, if required, we will provide a bandana for your dog to wear to signify to others not to approach without checking with you first (plus your dog will look super cute).

New members’ induction is held on the first Sunday of every month. You are required to join online initially before attending in person. Once we receive your application, you will be contacted via email to confirm the session time

More information can be found on our website at www.macedonrangesdogclub.org.au or you can contact us via our Facebook page or email info@macedonrangesdogclub.org.au and a representative from the club will contact you.

Loretto Fraser Instructor/committee member

Vet Talk Vet Talk

with Dr Caitlin Retchford Veterinarian

Bee stings and dogs

A bee in springtime packs a real punch, as young Flo found out when she went sniffing around the garden last week.

Poor little pup! She was so excited to play with that little buzzy creature before it turned its stinger on her.

was loud

and

viewed by a panel of six students about his career and time at the school and then three students spoke warmly about their relationship with Brendan and made presen tations to him.

She let out a mighty yelp, and her lips quickly swelled up to look like the marshmallow man. That tiny little bee stinger releases a complex mixture of venom components which cause pain and swelling immediately at the site by getting into the cells, triggering histamine release, and creating an allergic type reaction to make the skin flare up.

This happens quickly, and is quite painful for the dog, as it is for people. It is bad news for the bee too, which dies once it has released its sting.

Mostly, the effects of a bee sting in dogs will resolve within a few hours, and are not too serious. Severe anaphylactic reactions are rare.

A cold pack can help to reduce discomfort, or an antihistamine can be given for the irritating allergic type reaction.

Oh, and don’t 'bee surprised' if your dog does not learn from its mistakes; it’s always exciting to chase buzzy little things in the grass, despite one bad experience.

FOR THE GREEN THUMBS

Gardeners in special Viewfield visit

Cloudy and cold weather did not stop the Gisborne Garden Club from visiting the beautiful garden at Viewfield, Mount Macedon, last month. Viewfield is 10 acres (4ha) of garden. It has a park-like view with sweeping lawns and meandering paths leading to ornamental and native trees, woodland plantings and perennial gardens.

The extensive garden beds are under-planted with bulbs that have hybridised over the years, covering the garden beds in a dazzling show of yellow and white.

The 120-year-old weeping elm stands majestically with its branches extending down towards

the daffodils like a shady umbrella protecting the delicate flowers from the elements.

As well as Viewfield’s variety in trees, shrubs, prairie and rose gardens, the property produces vegetables and herbs that grow in raised garden beds and fruit trees near the house, in the "Food Forest". It was redesigned in 2021 and planted with semi-dwarf stone, citrus and some fruits and berries.

Viewfield will be open to the public during the Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival in April 2026 with proceeds supporting the charity Shared Table. Gisborne Garden Club meets monthly and new members are welcome. For more information please contact Edwina on 0407 576 545.

What’s on at Duneira in October

Gin and Jazz Concert Series

Join Jazz legends Michelle Nicolle on 11 October, Juliarna Clark on 18 October and Nichaud Fitzgibbon on 1 November from 3-5pm for afternoons of relaxing under the towering rhododendrons listening to jazz and sipping on a gin and tonic.

Tickets $48 per adult $45 concession/senior.

Bluebell Festival

The Duneira Estate Bluebell Festival is on 25 and 26 October. Enjoy a spring day amid the carpet of bluebells, indulge in a Devonshire tea from the CWA stall, or a sausage from Macedon and Mount Macedon Community House sausage sizzle. Enjoy a relaxing moment in the garden, accompanied by a glass of wine or a freshly brewed barista coffee.

There will be a blacksmithing demonstration in the old milking shed, guided garden tours throughout the day and the opportunity to stroll through the 1870s Victorian house and view Stuart Stoneman’s remarkable Art

Collection. $35 per adult, $30 Seniors, Children under 16 free.

Open Garden days and guided garden tours

Duneira Estate is open Monday to Wednesday 10am to 3pm and on the first and third Sunday of each month. Tickets available at the front gate, $15 entry fee per adult. Children under 16 are free. Guided garden tours are held on Wednesday and Sunday mornings at 10.30am, $25 per adult.

Garden Medicinal Workshops

Join author Caroline Parker on 4 October for a workshop exploring the treasures hidden in the gardens of Duneira. Caroline will show you how to use what you have foraged to make a delightful spring tea blend which you can take home. Enjoy morning tea in the stables, and a chance to ask Caroline any questions you have about medicinal gardens. 10am to 1pm. $150 per person.

Tickets are available for all events at duneiraestate.com.au.

Melina Goddard

Horticultural Open Studio – botanic art on view

Enjoy a visit to the stunning visual display of Botanic Art at the Open Studio of the Mount Macedon & District Horticultural Society, 583 Mount Macedon Road (rear of golf course).

Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 October 10am-4pm

eight artists will be painting, and available to discuss the inspirations behind their latest works and materials used, providing an insight to the intricate process for this delicate and detailed work.

This is a unique opportunity to see the ‘Artists in Residence’, working on their current botanical projects. Around

Each artist will also have a number of completed artworks on display. Original artworks will be for sale, along with prints and cards.

Daly speaker brings volcanic history to life

Friends of Daly Nature Reserve were treated to a wonderful presentation by guest speaker Dermot Henry, geologist and Head of Sciences at Melbourne Museum at our recent meeting. The presentation was centred around local volcanos and craters and how they have shaped our region.

The afternoon ended with light refreshments and a raffle.

We would like to thank the many contributors to the reserve including (but not limited to) all of our volunteers and loyal members, the council environment team, Gisborne Primary School, Gisborne Gazette, Community Bank Gisborne and District, Gisborne Landcare and Gisborne & Mount Macedon Districts Historical Society.

We look forward to the upcoming year of best practice ecological outcomes for the reserve.

Our working bees continue on the second Tuesday of each month and during spring we will also have working bees on the fourth Tuesday. They start at 9.30am meeting at the Scout Hall and finishing with a cuppa and social chat around 11am. Everyone welcome.

CROSSWORD

ACROSS

2 Australia’s largest Island

3 Highest Mountain in Victoria

5 A Town Like…

10 Capital city previously known as Palmerston

11 City named after Queen Victoria’s favourite Prime Minister

14 Battery Point is a suburb of…

15 Gulf between Northern Territory and Queensland

17 Northern most cape in Australia

18 The passage of water between Victoria and Tasmania (Two words)

19 Town in the Adelaide Hills settled by German migrants

DOWN

1 Rain Forest in Queensland

4 The town where Ned Kelly made his last stand

6 Street in Melbourne’s CBD in the heart of the theatre district

7 Opal capital, two words

8 Southernmost tip of mainland Australia, Wilsons…?

9 Longest River in Australia

12 Aboriginal throwing tool and rocket range in South Australia

13 Current name for Van Diemen’s Land

14 Current name for Mount Diogenes (Two words)

16 Underground water under pressure, the Great Artesian…..

Upgrades progressing at Memorial Cross

Work continues to move ahead steadily at the Mount Macedon Memorial Cross Reserve to enhance the visitor experience, improve access and safety and protect the heritage and commemorative value of this iconic site.

Led by the Reserve's Committee of Management a passionate volunteer group the upgrades are being delivered by experienced local contractor Smart Civil, along with support from community groups, partners, and government grants.

Over recent weeks, important groundwork has been completed, which includes:

Ground stabilisation to support safer walking areas

Installation of underground wiring to support upgraded lighting

Preparations for balustrade improvements

Committee chair David Mann, said: “We’re proud to see these much-needed works progressing. They’re about preserving the Cross as a place of national significance while ensuring it remains accessible and

Finishing Year 12 this year, or a recent school leaver? Upskill locally with MRFEC

Preparations for balustrade improvements at the Memorial Cross.

welcoming for everyone — locals, visitors, and future generations alike.”

For more information, please contact: Kate Medhurst, Secretary of the Committee of Management at MMMRCCOM@gmail.com

1. Who was Britain’s longest-reigning monarch?

2. Which planet has the moons Triton and Nereid?

with Katrina Wurm

The art of self care –putting yourself first Mum Life – Sorted

Katrina Wurm

As we move into the warmer months, October is the perfect time to focus on self-care. It’s easy to put ourselves last as mums, juggling work, school runs, and the constant “Mum, where’s my…” but without looking after ourselves, we can’t truly be there for our families.

Self-care doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes it’s just five sneaky minutes with a cup of tea, a brisk walk around the block pretending you’re training for a marathon, or curling up with a book before someone asks where their other sock went (seriously, where do they go?).

This October hits home for me, as my own child is embarking on their Year 12 exams. I get it the late night study sessions, the mountain of notes, the mum-guilt creeping in at 2am. Here’s the secret: a calm mum is worth her weight in chocolate. Healthy snacks, encouraging regular breaks, reminding them to get outside for fresh air or exercise, it all helps.

And let’s be honest, sometimes the best support is quietly reminding them that their results do not define them.

Scan the QR code to MRFEC’s ‘Career’ Course Enrolments.

MRFEC is a Learn Local organisation where you can access subsidised training right here in Gisborne. These pre-accredited courses are designed to support lifelong learners, or to support the transition between school and work. Experienced tutors present our training, and we specialise in small classes averaging about eight to 10. These courses include:

Horticulture at Macedon & Mount Macedon Community House – starts Tuesday 7 October

During the course students will learn OHS, Propagation, Composting, Soils and Preparation, Planting, caring for fruit trees and more.

Job Ready – starts Friday 7 November

Learn how to build tailored resumes, write effective cover letters, sharpen your interview skills and more to land your next role with confidence.

Business Admin Skills (Beginners) – starts Tuesday 18 November

A short Business Administration course may be the perfect first step to take. You’ll learn all of the fundamentals that can help you enter the workforce.

Barista – starts Monday 24 November

Baristas don’t just make coffee, they create it! Learn the basics and then some from our talented tutor.

Whether you have discovered your calling or you are still exploring your options, our courses are designed to help build a foundation in a variety of different career paths. Head to our website www.mrfec.net.au for more information, including pricing and online enrolment, call us on 5428 3799, email enquiries@mrfec.net.au or pop in to say hello at 12 Hamilton Street. Caitlyn Sinclair

3. How is the number 849 written as a Roman numeral?

4. The Life Be In It campaign featured which character?

5. Mick Molloy starred in which movie about bowls?

6. What word can be both a long-legged bird and a machine for lifting things?

7. What form of transport is Sikorsky famous for manufacturing?

8. What kind of military vehicle was the HMAS Ovens?

9. Who starred in the classic movie Citizen Kane?

10. According to the proverb, a bird in the hand is worth…?

Two aerials met on a roof, fell in love and got married. The ceremony wasn't much, but the reception was brilliant.

One way to make life easier for everyone is to give your teen a break from household chores during this period. Yes, dishes can pile up, laundry can wait, and the vacuum can take a holiday. Let them focus purely on study without being pulled in a million directions. Short-term chaos for longterm calm, trust me, it’s worth it.

Remember, you’re allowed to sneak in some self-care too. Take a moment to breathe, laugh at the chaos, or even hide in the pantry for five minutes of silence, you’ve earned it! This month, commit to taking better care of yourself while supporting your teen.

Motherhood isn’t about perfection, it’s about doing your best, and modelling the self-care habits you would like your children to carry into their own lives. And let’s face it, a few dishes in the sink never hurt anyone.

Victorian Seniors Festival: High Tea at Dromkeen

There is one event planned in the Macedon Ranges for the Victorian Seniors Fesital this month: High Tea at Dromkeen in Riddells Creek.

This free event will be held on Friday 17 October between 10am and noon. Call 5422 0333 to book. The council advertised three other functions in last month’s Gazette (page 30) and they will be held at Castlemaine, Bendigo and Melbourne. Go to mrsc.vic.gov.au/seniors-festival for more information.

Gisborne Vintage Machinery Society

Much has been happening at the Gisborne Vintage Machinery Society since our rally in May this year.

The society has again run a very successful boiler and reciprocation engine course with four trainees from our club and seven from the Lake Goldsmith Club participating.

Over the past three years we have trained 20 people which is a great achievement for the club. This sees our society and the Lake Goldsmith Club with more appropriately trained people to look after our heritage into the future with those folks now holding Boiler Attendant and Steam Reciprocating Licenses with Work Safe Victoria.

After two years of waiting for a building permit we are now working to put the cover over our W class tram. This is to keep it protected from the weather. The society is hoping to have this completed by the end of the year.

Our miniature railway has had its winter break and

work has been progressing on the track and general maintenance. We are back running the first Sunday in October through to June next year, from 11am to 3pm. Rides are $4 per person, with barbecue and drinks available on run days. All money raised goes back into future projects within the society.

New members are always welcome so if you have an interest in vintage machinery, or other projects, both men and women and junior members are welcome.

We run a junior members’ mentoring program for youth 14 to 18 years. A valid working with children’s card is required to join the society.

Come along on the first Sunday of the month and say hi.

Finally, we are having a joint fundraiser with the Macedon Ranges and District Motor Club which will be a swap meet, show and shine, family fun day on 5 October See details at right or in the ad below.

Anthony Davis Vice-President

Gisborne Swap Meet, Car Show and Train Day

Gisborne Vintage Machinery Society and Macedon Ranges and District Motor Club's will be holding a Swap Meet, Classic Car Show and Family Fun day at the Gisborne Steam Park in Webb Crescent, New Gisborne, on Sunday 5 October from 9am.

Includes one free ride on the miniature train with every paid entry.

Sites available for the day.

Food and refreshments available on site. Contact Anthony on 0400 087 896 or via the website, www.gisbornevmrs.com

SCHOOL'S IN

Junior Chef 2025 - celebrating young talent

Sacred Heart College was thrilled to host this year's Junior Chef Competition, welcoming enthusiastic primary school teams into the school kitchens for a day of culinary fun.

The competition was close, with students impressing the judges with their organisation, collaboration, and passion for cooking congratulations to the winning team from St Brigid’s.

We were delighted to welcome incredible guest judges, who generously gave their time to support and inspire the junior chefs: two SHC graduates now working in the food industry, and Josh Murra, founder of Josh’s Rainbow Eggs.

We can’t wait to welcome schools back for Junior Chef 2026.

Sacred Heart College, Kyneton

St Brigid’s – the winning team

What a night we had at Sacred Heart College’s Junior Chef on 26 August supporting our team, the St B’s Sizzlers.

Our little team of chefs did us proud, cooking up a delicious butter chicken which, combined with their first round chicken quesadilla, saw them crowned winners.

Their teamwork, communication, organisation and cooking abilities were a testament to each of them.

Thanks to the team at Sacred Heart that makes this event possible each year. We are so grateful for this

opportunity to be a part of your amazing community and use your incredible facilities along with our other Catholic schools from the region.

Congratulations again to Zachy, Lillie, Indie and Ivy on your fabulous achievement. A big thanks to our families who supported our little chefs at each stage with their cooking trials at home and being present last night. It was so great to be able to celebrate this achievement together.

St Brigid’s Catholic Primary School

Protecting schools for bushfire season

The State Government has announced twentyone schools across the Macedon Ranges are part of 345 campuses across 330 government schools which will share in $8.4 million to carry out essential maintenance work as part of the Bushfire Preparedness Vegetation Program.

Local school recipients are: Gisborne Secondary College, Macedon Primary

School, Mount Macedon Primary School, and Sunbury and Macedon Ranges Specialist School (Bullengarook Campus).

The program was introduced in 2018 to help schools undertake essential vegetation clearance around the school buildings prior to the bushfire season and in line with municipal fire danger periods.

CAPTAIN'S RAP

Recently at Gisborne Secondary College, Year 12s celebrated their final weeks of school with a series of spirit-themed events. The month-long celebration was designed to be a memorable and fitting conclusion to their time at the college.

The events began with Future Careers Day, where students dressed as their desired professions, from teachers and doctors to ‘tradies’ and vets. This was followed by Crazy Hair Day, a fun and creative event that saw students showcasing an amazing number of imaginative hairstyles. The celebrations continued with Pyjama Day, where students arrived in their most comfortable sleepwear. The month concluded with Throwback Day, which saw students dressing in styles from past decades.

Concurrently, VCE-VM students have been actively engaged in various practical projects. They have completed a number of creative artworks. In addition, they have been involved in hands-on activities within the school, including maintaining the school gardens. The students have also taken their learning into the community, visiting local primary schools to lead physical education classes and assist with other activities. Their contributions have been a positive reflection on the college, showcasing their commitment to both their studies and their community.

The entire school also demonstrated its community spirit by organising a successful Foodbank donation drive, collecting a significant amount of non-perishable food items to support those in need.

Olivia

100 days of school at New Gisborne

On Wednesday 30 August, New Gisborne

Primary School’s Foundation classes were filled with 100 year old grandmas and grandpas who were celebrating their 100th day of school.

“When we arrived at school there were lots of decorations in our classrooms,” said Isla. "It was funny to see my face with wrinkles and grey hair!”

We had walking frames, woollen vests and grey hair galore. Students participated in a range of counting

collections of 100 from the items students had brought in from home.

“I liked the picture of us when we were old,” said Lola.

“I made my 100 digits into a Batman mask,” said Rupert.

It was a wonderful day celebrating how far our Foundation students have come and we are all very proud of their efforts. We are excited to see what they can achieve in the next 100 days.

Playground and Indigenous garden opening

Mount Macedon Primary School had the grand opening of their new playground on Thursday 11 September.

Captain Raphy Crawford started us off with the acknowledgement of country. We then had an Aboriginal elder, Perry, to tell us his story. It was inspirational and informative.

Perry told us about how it was when Aboriginal people couldn’t roam around and instead stayed on a 4200-acre (1700-hectare) farm, and how since then, the farm has shrunk down to just over 300 acres (120ha).

The students went up and talked about what they loved most about the playground and about the new Indigenous garden at the front of the school.

We moved on to the smoking ceremony that Perry completed. He burned fresh eucalyptus leaves that made smoke. All the classes went through the smoke, and put the soles of their shoes up to the smoke. Perry told us that it would make all the bad spirits leave.

Overall, It was a very nice way to open Mount Macedon Primary Schools’ new playground.

Raphy Crawford and Mirra Newlove

News from Gisborne Primary School

Minecraft Club

The STEM leaders, Cohen and Josh, set up a Minecraft Club in the STEM (Science Technology Engineering Maths) room on 3 and 10 September.

As they had had lots of success previously in the 5/6 Minecraft Club, they thought they would do one,with the 3/4 students.

They hosted a world and allowed the 3/4s to come and play and build something around the theme of beach house.

There were lots of amazing builds and groups of people working together. As hoped, the 3/4s really enjoyed it, having lots of fun together.

Joshua

V, Year 6 Writers’ Club

Hanging Rock fun

Fun filled the air on 15 September.

To make the Year 1/2s’ last week of Term 3 a day to remember, they went to Hanging Rock.

Once they got there they had a look at the beautiful scenery and had an amazing experience getting to see cool wildlife like kookaburras and kangaroos.

They walked about halfway up Hanging Rock, still high enough to see an incredible view.

The students’ highlight of the day was enjoying the playground and getting to climb down a ‘tiny tunnel’.

They all stated that they had fun and it was a great day.

By Ruby L and Keltie M. Year 6 Writers’ Club

Macedon Primary celebrates 150 years – a step back in time

On Saturday 15 November Macedon Primary School will proudly celebrate a remarkable milestone – 150 years of education, community, and growth. With the theme 'A Step Back in Time,' the celebration promises to honour the rich history of the school while bringing together past and present students, staff, families, and the wider Macedon community.

The event will be a day of reflection, storytelling and celebration. From historical displays and performances to community activities and shared memories, the school grounds will come alive with the stories of generations who’ve walked its halls.

Special thanks go to Halle Grant for the thoughtful and creative design of the community advertising board, which beautifully captures the essence of the event.

The school also extends heartfelt appreciation to the major sponsors, whose generous support helped bring this milestone to life. Their names are proudly displayed on the community board, in recognition of their commitment to our community.

As the community gathers to mark 150 years of Macedon Primary School, it is a chance to reconnect, reminisce, and look ahead to a bright future rooted in strong community values.

We warmly invite all current and former students, families, staff, and friends to join us on the day. Let’s celebrate our school’s legacy and take a proud step back in time.

Riddells Creek Mechanics Institute is 150

Join us at the Mechanics Institute to celebrate 150 years of stories, events and community spirit in the heart of Riddells Creek.

● Visual Presentation - photos, stories and memories from 1875 to 2025

● Live entertainment

● Bring along memorabilia and memories

● Devonshire Tea

● 11am History speech and cake cutting

See you at the hall, 63 Main Road, Riddell, on Saturday 18 October between 9am and 3pm.

The capital of Ireland is the world’s fastest-growing city. It's Dublin every year.

Gisborne’s DO Food Project Cafe

The DO Food Project provides supported employment for people with disabilities in a cafe environment. We have one simple value: to DO the right thing. And for us, the right thing is to strive for long-term improvement in our culture by valuing the contributions and talents of all people.

We have a wide range of tasty hot and cold food and beverages and you can eat in or take away.

The Gisborne Men’s Shed recently asked us to cater for their 10th Anniversary celebration. It was a bigger

41 Aitken Street, Gisborne 9A Hamilton Street, Gisborne (03) 5414 2855 gisbornemc.com.au GISBORNE MEDICAL CLINIC To advertise in the Gazette, contact our Advertising Coordinator on 0438 711 138 or visit our website, gisborne gazette.org.au

Gisborne Gazette

order than we normally supply but with a great team effort we managed it easily, delivered right on time and the Shedmen and their guests were very happy with the result.

We are located just inside the front door of the Macedon Ranges Health building on the corner of Neal and Lyell Streets, and open between 8am and 3pm Monday to Friday. The DO Food Project is a place of belonging where there is joy in building community and we believe that community is the best medicine.

Gisborne Lightning Girl Guides

The girls have been working on both their Air and Rope badges this term.

This included flight activities such as who can fly a paper plane the furthest and who can make a parachute that floats the slowest. For our rope challenge, which included being harnessed for the crate challenge, the girls built tripods using rope and sticks, made worry dolls, demonstrated their skipping skills and followed a rope course whilst being blindfolded. Their partner was required to use communication to ensure their safety.

Guiding is a girl-led program based on working together on tasks, so they have already got together to decide on next term’s activities. This term we welcome Ivy and Elise who have come to try out Guiding. For information on Guiding refer to the Girl Guides Victoria website: www.guidesvic.org.au

1st New Gisborne Scout Group

We’ve just had our Scout Group ARAP (Annual Report and Presentation) night, showing parents, families and the community what we have done over the year.

Much Scouting activity with our Joeys and welcoming new Leader “Gecko” into their section while Cubs have been enjoying rock climbing. Our Scouts are busy preparing for the Cohen Shield camping competition.

Spring will see us begin landscaping and tree planting as part of the Scout Hut project. We are planning for an enclosed trailer bay alongside our Scout Hut, an addition that will free up space inside the hut and provide more “having fun” space for our youth members.

We are finalising plans for the fit-out of our Scout Hut, including a toilet block, kitchen, insulation and meeting room. Donations are tax-deductible when made via Scouts Victoria (marked for New Gisborne). Contributions will help us to create a safe, functional, and inspiring space for our young people.

Scouting offers proven programs for families. We meet on Wednesdays, 6.30 to 8pm, at the Church of Christ in Saunders Road; Venturers on Fridays. Contact Group Leader Russell Barker on 0400 297 025 or russell@jeem.com.au. For Venturers call Tracey on 0407 098 032.

John Frearson

News from 1st Gisborne Scouts

1st Gisborne Scout Group held their Annual Report and Awards Presentation on 10 September. The evening was led by the youth members (some as young as five) celebrating their achievements over the past 12 months.

We were humbled to have almost 120 people attend, including Cr Alison Joseph, Dominic Andreacchio from the Community Bank and Wombat Lyons from Scouts Victoria.

Also, a very big ‘thank you’ to all the Scouting families and leaders who came along to support the evening you all play an integral part in making 1st Gisborne Scout Group a welcoming place to discover adventure and have fun.

The Scouts have been having lots of adventures over the past month.

They went on a Car Rally around the Macedon Ranges and went on a six-hour hike through the night, completing challenges which included fire lighting and cooking their dinner on hike stoves (it was nearly midnight before they returned to camp.)

Barb West, who has been treasurer for 35 years.

For more information about the fun

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

Goode (Joey Leader)

Bullseye for renewable energy

The Bacchus Marsh Bowmen Archery Club is promoting the benefits of renewable energy transition with the installation of solar energy equipment thanks to a Federal Government grant.

Having never been on the electricity grid at its base at Bullard Road in Gisborne, the club is keen to say goodbye to its costly petrol generator and embrace the clean energy of solar. The federal Member for McEwen, Rob Mitchell, dropped in to the club recently to congratulate members on their successful grant application.

The installation of a 10-kilowatt panel system and a 16-kilowatt battery to harness this energy will see the club lower its carbon emissions and save about 9.5 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions a year, decrease air pollution and lower electricity costs for the club.

The Archery Club operates on a 27-hectare site of Reserved Forest under state Department of Energy Environment and Climate Action management which it moved to in 1989.

It is a pre-eminent archery club in Victoria and hosts field archery competitions under the Australian Bowhunters Association rules of affiliation. It has an ever-growing membership with a membership base from six years of age to 75-plus.

“The Bacchus Marsh Bowmen illustrate just what the Stronger Communities Grants aim to achieve,” Mr Mitchell said.

“They encourage their local community to ‘come and try’ events and are also a club highly regarded for facilitating for its members in many ways, including those who may be struggling or are disadvantaged.”

Willowbank enjoys Grampians camp

Last term the 5&6 students at Willowbank Primary School ventured off to our school camp. We stayed for three days, returning on Friday 5 September. We travelled to Silverband Lodge in the Grampians. We slept in gorgeous cabins, with fine dining.

Some of the activities were high ropes, hiking, archery and bush cooking. High ropes included the log (a horizontal log placed on top of two vertical logs), train tracks (two ropes which were parallel that you walked across) and the leap of faith (a vertical wooden log that you jump off and try to catch a trapeze).

During the gorgeous hike we saw kangaroos, giant lizards and crystal-clear streams. When we went bush cooking, we made damper and also banana bake, which was filled with yummy chocolate pieces.

We also learned archery and most people made a score on their second shot. The first night we had Trivia. All teams had a solid shot, with one team called 'Where’s the Food' who finished on top of the competition, taking our Willowbank’s first camp trivia prize. Special mentions to our camp instructors, Harry, and Jarrad.

Overall we had a BLAST! Written by Oliver and Sienna Lots

SERVICES

• Children's health checks advice and treatment including routine childhood immunisations.

• Women's health advice and treatment on contraception, antenatal and obstetric shared care, cervical screens, and breast checks.

• Men’s health advice and treatment about concerns such as physical issues, prostate checks.

• Mental health diagnosis and treatment, care plans, and referrals to counselling services.

• Health checks, including physical check-ups and tests for lifestyle concerns such as diabetes and cholesterol levels.

• Cancer screening, spirometry testing, audiometry testing, heart health checks and ECG

• Diagnosis and management of chronic diseases such as asthma and diabetes.

• Full body skin checks, individual spot checks, minor and complex excisions.

Saturday 23 November 10am to 2pm in the parish hall Fisher

AROUND THE GROUNDS

Finals fever hits Ranges futsal

The Macedon Ranges Futsal community came alive in September with finals fever. For my son’s Grade 3/4 team, it was their very first grand final, and in the lead-up to the big match, emotions were running high.

Responses to questions about how they were all feeling varied from excitement and nervousness to apprehension and self doubt, and in some cases, a mixture of all four.

“I’m nervous Mum...and a little bit confident too,” said my son, summing up the emotional roller-coaster they had all been experiencing. On the day, the opposition were stronger, and took home the win. And so continues our team’s journey of practising graciousness in the face of defeat!

Congratulations to all winter season players, teams, coaches/managers finalists and grand finalists! Here are the results of the grand final matches played on 11 and 12 September.

Primary school divisions

Lightning Legends def. Purple Panthers

The Sigmas d Stingers; The Rockets def. The Dogs Nutmegs def. Super Stars; Panthers def. Chilli Cheetos

The Stars d. Sporting Gisborne; Top Bins d. Lady Birds

Secondary school divisions

Ballers d. Whateverton; Warriors d. The Owls

Tap in Merchants d. Hat Trick Hurricanes Subway Surfers d. Shenanigans; Rebels d Panthers

Open

Have Mercy d. Netsix and Chilli

Grand Theft Porto d. Mini Victory.

Good luck to those teams still to play:

The Badgers vs Spice Goals; Red Storm vs Gisdogs

Dragons ready to fire as season begins

The wait is over cricket is back.

The Gisborne Cricket Club is set for another exciting summer, with the 2025-26 season officially starting on Saturday, October 4, when the senior teams take the field. Juniors and Woolworths Blasters will follow soon after, with the club boasting a record number of junior girls’ and boys’ teams this year. Registrations are still open for all age groups, including seniors, so it’s not too late to join the Dragons.

Pre-season has gone well, with strong numbers and plenty of energy on the training track. The Dragons are looking forward to building on that momentum as matches get underway.

It’s not just on-field action to look forward to, with the club rolling out a full social calendar across the summer. From family-friendly days to major club events, there will be something for everyone at Gardiner Reserve check out the full calendar on the club’s socials.

Club President Greg Hall said the whole community can feel the buzz as another season kicks off.

We’ve had a fantastic pre-season, the playing group is shaping up really well, and the family atmosphere around the club is as strong as ever. We can’t wait to see everyone down at the ground supporting the Dragons in 2025-26.”

The club also takes this chance to thank its sponsors, whose ongoing support is vital to helping players young and old enjoy their cricket.

With cricket back and plenty to look forward to, Gisborne Cricket Club is set for another season of big performances, strong community spirit, and plenty of fun both on and off the field.

“Every year there’s a special excitement when cricket returns, but this one feel extra special.

Two premierships for Gisborne netballers

Congratulations to Gisborne Football Netball Club's B Grade and B Reserve netballers who brought home the flags on grand final day at Bendigo on 20 September.

Future uncertain as Gisborne loses bid to move

A defiant Gisborne says it won’t play in the Bendigo Football Netball League next year despite its application to join the Ballarat Football Netball League being knocked back.

The girls had played strongly throughout the season and won the grand final matches convincingly with these scores:

B Grade defeated Kangaroo Flat 55-44

B Reserve defeated Sandhurst 45-32

Gisborne A Grade bowed out to Sandhurst 39-44 in the preliminary final on 13 September, and on 7 September Gisborne A Reserve lost to South Bendigo 4447 and Gisborne U17 went down to Strathfieldsaye 3050 in the first semi-finals.

The footballers made the finals with the senior and U18 teams challenging yet again.

However, the seniors went down to Eaglehawk 7.10. 52 to 12.13.85 in the preliminary final and the U18s lost to Strathfieldsaye 5.7.37 to 10.4.64 in the first week of the finals.

The club once again showed its strength with such broad representation in the finals and is looking forward to the challenges that 2026 will present them with.

Macedon FNC AGM

The Macedon Football Netball Club’s Annual General Meeting, scheduled for Wednesday 8 October starting at 8pm, will be held at the Social Rooms at Tony Clarke Reserve.

AFL Victoria knocked back the Bulldogs' application to change leagues on 27 September.The club had been seeking to leave the Bendigo league to join the Ballarat league, for a number of reasons including financial and travel.

The Ballarat league clubs had voted resoundingly in favour of the move, as did Bulldogs members.

AFL Victoria had convened an appeal panel to decide Gisborne’s future after the Bendigo FNL had appealed the decision. The AFL decision went against the Bulldogs.

Bulldogs president Tony Brancatisano said that the club would fight the decision.

“We will fight it; at the end of the day they [the Bendigo league] don’t own our club, and neither does AFL Victoria.”

Tony said the AFL's decision had been made based on what was best for the Bendigo league, but not what was best for the Gisborne club.

He also said the club's relationship with the Bendigo league had now reached the point of no return.

The Bendigo Football Netball League said it will continue to figure Gisborne into its planning for 2026, despite the Bulldogs being adamant they have played their final game in the competition.

Medals, trophies, AGMs, life memberships... and a hole in one

Mt Macedon Golf Club's August Monthly Medal saw a clean sweep by Matt Willis, who took home the A Grade, stroke, and Monthly Medal with a net one under par 66. B Grade went to Marcus Ward, and C Grade to Dave Dunstan.

The midweek Mug of the Month (and A Grade) went to Ian Flannery with 37 points, with B Grade going to Michael Smitheran. It was a great month for Michael who had also scored a hole in one on the third hole two weeks prior.

A large contingent contested the annual Bluey Russell Trophy in windy conditions. The Trophy (and A Grade) was won by Darren Mantynen with 38 points. B Grade went to Kevin Taylor and C Grade to Rob Taylor.

Long term Club President Matt Willis passed the reins over to Darcy Doyle at the AGM. Thanks to Matt for his years of hard work and congratulations to Darcy on his appointment.

The 2025-26 Committee will be made up of Darcy Doyle (President), Mick Doyle (Captain), Mike Hoiles (Secretary) and general committee members Matt Willis, Brian Collins, Darren Mantynen, Terry Bonello, Dave Watt, Peter Watson, and Sean Bassett. Thanks to retiring members Gary Liddy and Nathan Fairley for their contributions.

Undoubtably a highlight of the AGM, the month, and the year was the elevation of Neville Clark and Marcus Ward to life membership. Neville has racked up 50 years of continuous membership with the club (as well as many other hours of voluntary service), and the massive contribution to the club in a large range of areas from Marcus is well known to all members. Congratulations to both. Sean Bassett

Join in Macedon Tennis Club's Centenary Cup and celebration in November

Macedon Tennis Club, founded in the early 1920s, will host the inaugural Macedon Tennis Club Centenary Cup Tournament open to all members of the Macedon Ranges Tennis Association.

The Centenary Cup tournament features Open singles and doubles, as well as Junior (U18) singles and doubles, played in a graded, round-robin format to ensure competitive and enjoyable matches for all levels. Entries are now open at tournaments.tennis.com. au.  Registrations close on 15 October. Preliminary tournament rounds will be played during November and the finals will be played on Saturday 22 November.

More details on the tournament and the link to register can be found on the Macedon Tennis Club website and Facebook page.

On Saturday 22 November, after the finals have been played, the club will conduct its Annual General Meeting at 6pm which will culminate in the presentation of the Centenary Cup to all the tournament winners.

The Cup will be engraved and displayed in the clubhouse in a special commemorative box. Following the presentation of the Centenary Cup, the club will host a Centenary Celebration with a spit roast, drinks and DJ entertainment for members and guests to celebrate this important community milestone.

Tickets will be available for the Centenary Celebration in mid-October.

All tennis players in the Macedon Ranges are invited to register for the tournament and to be part of the Centenary Celebrations as the Macedon Tennis Club marks over 100 years of tennis and community in the Macedon Ranges. Club committee

What's happening at Petanque Club?

Mt Macedon Petanque Club came third in this year’s Golden Boule competition. Pyrenees won the trophy by one point from Ballarat.

The final round was combined with the club's Presentation Day for the first time and was held at Ballarat on 6 September. The day was a great success, with all teams present to play out their games and enjoy a shared lunch followed by the presentation.

Another friendly event, the Jolly Roger against Camberwell, was postponed due to bad weather in late August. With the weather finally warming up, weekends

are full of competitions in the regions and in Melbourne with many players out competing.

The club is running its annual Mixed Triples Competition on Sunday 5 October. Drop by if you’re interested in seeing some keen competition.

Otherwise come and visit us on our weekly practice days. We are situated just behind the Ampol Service Station. Playdays are Wednesdays from 1 to 4pm (2-5pm daylight saving hours) and on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month from 10am to 1pm. For enquiries, please go to www.mtmaceonpetanque.org or our see our Facebook page.

Alison Kinghorn

Croquet Club opens new season

The Macedon Ranges Croquet Club held their 2025/26 Season Opening Day on Wednesday 10 September in very inclement weather. Following an acknowledgement to country, President Terry Goodley gave a welcome to members and guests, Deputy Mayor Kate Kendall and representatives from Bendigo Bank, Courtney Alexander and Holly. There was then a flag-raising ceremony and National Anthem sung with gusto by members and guests.

2025 Club Champion, Brenda Jackson then ran the first hoop of the season and soon afterwards games of croquet were played. Later a lunch provided by members was enjoyed with much chatter and laughter. after a cold morning on the courts. We also said farewell to our former Secretary Lyn Robinson who is moving down to the Bellarine Peninsular.

There is an open invitation to all to come and try a croquet game with a group of friendly people at Dixon Field Sport Complex. Monday, Wednesday and Saturday mornings at 9am.

Once is not enough

It takes a lot of work to get your team to one Grand Final. Coming away with a win is the ultimate prize.

South Gisborne Tennis Club's C1/2 Thunder team has backed up this season with another grand final play-off which they also won. You couldn’t wipe the smiles off their faces. Congratulations kids.

We also congratulate our youngest team, C3/D, on reaching the grand final. One of many to come.

Our teams in the Mountain District Ladies Tennis Association (MDLTA) mid-week competition were not to be denied in the summer season, with Section 1 Opals and Section 3 Suns also coming away with grand final wins.

We look forward to the weather warming up with our event calendar, which includes events with the Spark coaching team, being worked on.

A big shout-out to all our team managers, committee members, coaches and volunteers who make the club buzz. We appreciate all you do.

Follow us on FB or www.sgtennisclub.com.au

Swimmers make a splash at state short course titles

Gail

Gisborne Junior tennis: winter season wrap-up

Huge congratulations to all our junior players on another fantastic winter season.

This year we had eight teams, with three making finals. Most teams were competitive right across the season — but what really stood out was the sportsmanship, effort and camaraderie shown by every player.

It was wonderful to see players supporting and helping each other out on court, creating such a positive environment for everyone involved.

A special thank you goes to all the team managers. Your time and organisation make these teams possible, and we truly appreciate everything you do to support the players.

MVP Awards: Sky, Georgia, Brendan, Sal, Jackson, Samantha, Mason

Best Sports Person Awards: Robbie, Mason, Claire

Well done to everyone — players, parents, and managers — for making it such a positive and successful season. Leigh Chapman

Ten of the Gisborne Thunder's top age swimmers went head to head with Victoria’s finest over three actionpacked days at the 2025 Uncloud Victorian Age Short Course Championships recently.

Four swimmers swam in individual events Captain Caitlin G, Ava H, Frankie G, and Maverick H. They all showed grit and determination in their events and Caitlin, Frankie, and Mav all achieved personal bests. Ava took on the biggest program, racing in four individual events and six relays. Her endurance and spirit were inspiring.

Our relay swimmers competed in nine events, bringing hype and heart and rallying around each other to produce some epic team PBs. Max D swam a great butterfly leg, crushing his PB by nearly six seconds.

Congratulations to our swimmers: your effort, sportsmanship and team spirit made this meet unforgettable. Keen to get in on the action? To find out more, email memberships@gisbornethunder.org . The October club night is on the road, heading to Kyneton Aquatic Centre, on Saturday 11 October; registrations from 5.45pm, racing starts at 6pm. Kate Hager

Macedon Ranges Netball Association winners Grand Final winners and Best and Fairests: 16A

Rebels1 def Possums1: 33-23

B & F Winner: Olive Peavey from United 1

B & F Runners Up: Adele McKibbin from Rebels 1 16B

Woodend3 def Kyneton2: 32-16

B & F Winner: Jessica Spielvogel Woodend 4

B & F Runners Up: Gracie Cook Kyneton 2 and Sienna Sipthorp Possums 2 13A

Kyneton3 def Possums3: 30-21

B & F Winner: Piper Fynch Kyneton 3

B & F Runners Up: Lucinda Gray Woodend 5 13B

Macedon2 def Saints2: 20-16

B & F Winner: Freya Dodd Macedon 2

B & F Runners Up: Bella Dunlop Macedon 2

11A Kyneton6 def Possums6: 26-15

11B Kyneton8 def Kyneton7: 7-5

(no Best & Fairest for U11s)

Lauren O’Grady, MRNA President

SPORT IN PICTURES

All

Gisborne & Mount Macedon Districts Historical Society

Gisborne Court House  4 Hamilton Street

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

LOCAL HISTORY

Beautiful Gisborne and surrounds

A historical take on local attributes

Former policeman and historian

David George O’Donnell wrote a promotional article for visitors to Gisborne which was published in The Sunbury News on 30 April 1927. Edited by

Robin Godfrey

There are many health resorts within a few hours’ railway journey from Melbourne, where city folk and others are eager to go in search of health, mineral waters, or to get away from the dust and smoke which unfortunately are associated with nearly all great cities.

Gisborne is a town of rare beauty, easily reached from the metropolis by rail or road. It is linked up by railways with the whole of Victoria, and yet, few people know of the beauty that Gisborne has to offer.

Situated on the Melbourne-Bendigo railway line, the town can be reached from the metropolis in about one and a half hours. Time or distance should, therefore, offer little or no impediment to city folk desirous of visiting our lovely little town.

Many train travellers passing through Gisborne Railway Station and seeing, at a mere glimpse, the newer and smaller Gisborne which has sprung up since the railway was constructed in 18601861, imagine that they have seen Gisborne. Some have mistakenly asserted that Gisborne is a small and unimportant place with nothing very picturesque about it.

To obtain the most panoramic view, however, one has to ascend Magnet Hill [New Gisborne] the remnant of a prehistoric volcano with its huge outcropping rocks known to Gisborne residents, on account of the almost complete absence of trees or scrub, as the Bald Hill. From its summit a splendid view of the Macedon Range can be obtained. The Mount stands up abruptly against the skyline and the range forms an impressive background to the landscape north of New Gisborne.

To the south-west, some eight miles [12km] away, with a crest of forest trees, Mount Bullengarook is discerned. To the south, Mount Gisborne rears its fertile head, while the Red Rock, Mt Holden, Mt Aitken and other hills fill in the landscape to the south-east. As one looks to the southward, about a mile away, part of Gisborne comes into view.

From the Railway Station at New Gis-

borne, walking towards Old Gisborne, the distant views are excellent. The town of Gisborne is not visible until one is right over it on the brow of one or other of the hills which encircle it. It comes suddenly into view in the green and charming valley below.

When approaching Gisborne from the direction of New Gisborne, the town opens up at once on reaching the junction of the Bendigo and New Gisborne roads. The road proceeds through a

Church of England, an iron building with its square bell tower and clerestory, is as appealing as it is historic. It was one of three churches shipped out from England in the early days. One of these was erected at the corner of Bay and Graham Streets, Port Melbourne; another in Williamstown (and afterwards removed to Hoddle Street, Collingwood); and the third was placed on the brow of the Southern Hill (as the early carriers, teamsters and coach drivers called it)

winding cutting in one of the hillsides with a steep gradient, flanked on either side by gracefully rising ground. On reaching the level ground approaching the town, attention is captured by the gardens reserve with its lovely trees.

To enter the town, one has to cross Jackson’s Creek, which cuts its way through the hills and glens of Bullengarook, Gisborne and Sunbury to join the Maribyrnong River, on its way to Hobson’s Bay. Jackson’s Creek, called after the brothers Jackson who came over from Tasmania in 1835 and settled at Sunbury, is an ever-flowing stream. At and about Gisborne it flows over a gravelly bottom and seldom presents a turbid appearance, except when in flood. It contains many deep holes, and is wellstocked with fresh-water fish.

Approaching Gisborne from the Melbourne side, before the town comes into view, attention is drawn to the sloping hills, valley and homestead known as Wyabun, with Jackson’s Creek below, rippling in the sunlight. Beyond Wyabun, a short distance ahead on the opposite side of the road, is the little church that tops the hill [corner Melbourne Road and Rodney Street; later moved to corner Brantome and Fisher Streets]. The

overlooking Gisborne. The three buildings were exactly alike.

When approaching Gisborne from Melbourne, the town flashes into sight just after passing this church. From the Southern Hill to Calthorpe Street is but a very short distance. Just below, on the right-hand side, is an old quarry from which road filling was obtained in the early days for the formation of the main Bendigo Road. A short distance away, the old Mount Macedon Hotel, of former days, is situated. It is the oldest building in Gisborne now that the Bush Inn no longer stands.

The Southern Hill, in the 1850s and 1860s, when Gisborne was very young, was the scene of many accidents and calamities. It was very much steeper and much more unprotected than it is today, and was dreaded by drivers of American wagons, coaches, and heavily laden vehicles. Accidents of a serious nature occurred almost daily.

Approaching Gisborne from the northeast [Kilmore Rd], the scene is exceptional. The Riddell Hill, as it is called, is the steepest of all the inclines leading to the town. It is gravelled, clean, and Gisborne, as seen from that direction, opens out to the visitor.

Historical Happenings

The Gisborne & Mount Macedon Districts Historical Society advises of the forthcoming activities:

Sunday 12 October at 2pm – General Meeting taking the form of a ‘Show and Tell’. All are welcome to attend, bring an item of sentimental value and speak about it if they wish. This is a free event with afternoon tea provided.

Wednesday 29 October at 5pm – A Walk and Talk at the Macedon Cemetery. All welcome to attend for a gold coin donation. Meet just inside the gate from 4.50pm to learn about many who rest in the ‘Shadow of the Mountain’.

Sunday 16 November at 2pm – Annual General Meeting at Gisborne Court House with a guest speaker, still to be confirmed.

Please put these dates in your diary and support your local Historical Society by attending one or all of these events, or offering to act as a volunteer on Wednesdays between 10am and 4pm.

Let us now approach the town from Bullengarook. The road reaches Hamilton Street, on the west side. Descending what is now called Carnegie’s Hill, the road winds through a pleasant pass, flanked on either side by hills and hollows, and mantled over by Australian gums.

The town of Gisborne was laid out in 1851 by Robert Hoddle, who had earlier surveyed the streets of Melbourne. All of Gisborne’s streets run parallel to each other, and cross at right angles. The streets are broad and beautiful, gravelled and clean, planted with a plentiful supply of wide-spreading shady trees, and are covered in grassy expanses from the roadway to the footpath.

Gisborne has elm trees which are the admiration of all visitors, and the pride of the townspeople. They are considered to be the largest, most wide-spreading and symmetrical in Victoria. Each could shelter a large number of picknickers from the summer sun, while the double rows of elms bedecking the northern side of Hamilton Street, could afford shelter to hundreds of people.

Gisborne is well worth a day visit from Melbourne or, if travelling from further afield, worth an overnight stay at one of the town’s comfortable hotels.

Obituary

Michael Smith

A busy life, lived with a great sense of fun

24 January 1940 – 11 August 2025

Michael formed many great friendships throughout the more than 45 years he lived in Gisborne.

Whether as a colleague, neighbour, fellow committee member or friend, he was much loved for his adventurous spirit, sense of humour, kindness and loyalty. He will be greatly missed by all.

Michael Guard Smith was born on 24 January 1940, in Lahore, Pakistan (at the time British India), the first child of Florence Smith (nee Meggitt) and Wesley Guard Smith.

His father, a Major 2nd battalion, 1st Punjab regiment, in the Indian Army, was soon off to Burma battling the Japanese, and Michael’s early life was spent with his mother and younger brother in the relative comfort of a military compound.

By the end of 1943, with the world at war and India in turmoil, Florence left with the children on a troop carrier bound for Australia.

Michael’s memories of his father, now Brigadier Smith, date from 1947 when this large man in an army greatcoat suddenly appeared.

The Council currently has the Open Space Strategy out for consultation. The strategy will establish a vision and framework for open space in the Shire over the next 10 years. I would encourage everyone to make a submission.

Council is also putting in place a new Fraud and Corruption Prevention Policy and reviewing the performance of the CEO and the achievement of organisational goals (such as the timeliness of processing planning permit applications, complaints handling etc). I would welcome any feedback on these matters too.

We have recently consulted on our Biodiversity Strategy. An additional 60 species that are likely to occur in the shire have been upgraded to threatened species under federal legislation since the last Biodiversity plan was adopted in 2018.

Land-use changes and habitat loss are major drivers of this problem. It is disheartening that despite Council achieving most of the current plan’s goals, biodiversity has significantly declined.

I was personally saddened by the recent removal of the large habitat tree at

At 17 Michael took up an apprenticeship with Qantas as a ground engineer – the beginning of a long career in aviation. In 1965, he moved to Melbourne to train with Ansett as a flight engineer, where he became a respected senior crew member and trainer. Work featured overnights around Australia and in places as far-flung as New Guinea and the Cocos Islands.

In 1965, Michael found himself on a double date with a flying buddy, whose girlfriend had come from Sydney with her friend and fellow nursing student Patsy Millard. The romantic long drive Michael had planned didn’t come to much; Patsy had just come off a fortnight of night shifts and promptly fell asleep.

Not to be deterred, within three months he had asked her to marry him.

They were wed in 1967 in the little church at Milton

COUNCILLOR'S COLUMN

the rear of a property in Hamilton Street, and reports from the community that there were possums and other animals escaping from it as it was being chopped down.

I am informed by the Director of Planning that unfortunately because it was a Commercial 1 zone, there were no planning controls that protected vegetation on this site.

I believe we need to have greater respect for the natural environment and understand that other species have a right to space as well, if we have any hope of addressing the biodiversity crisis Australia is facing. We are not the only ones experiencing a housing crisis!

On a more positive note, I also recently attended the 1st Gisborne Scout Group Annual Reporting and Presentations night and was very impressed by the activities and skill development offered by the group, and the opportunities it provides for young people in our community.

Organisations such as these are very important for building appreciation for the natural environment, and instilling respect for biodiversity in both current and future generations.

in coastal New South Wales, and settled in Melbourne. Here they acquired their first baby a golden labrador named Sam. Sam was followed by daughters Catherine and Kylie.

By the late ’70s the family had arrived in the Macedon Ranges, to a 10-acre block in Gisborne South, where they spent many happy years.

Michael was busy at work and at home but always found time to get involved in the community, sitting on the Gisborne Primary School Council and becoming District Commissioner of the Gisborne South Pony Club.

On retiring from flying, Michael and Patsy took on the Lancefield Hardware store, where they became a valued part of the Macedon Ranges business community. By the year 2000 Michael stepped into his next role, as a guide with the Gisborne-based Victorian Winery Tours, where he introduced many people to the wines of the Macedon Ranges and beyond.

Always an avid traveller, semi-retirement meant more time for adventure, with many trips, from Europe to Singapore and New Zealand.

Michael was a doting and very proud grandfather to his three grandchildren, Noah, Callum and Ronnie.

Here comes the sun, let’s appreciate

So we have awoken to spring. The men’s AFL and rugby league are drawing to a close. Supporters have made their way to the last games of the season. Others have not, but in the way that sporting loyalty enters the blood, will have kept the faith until next season. Next time. Next time. Maybe this time. Have faith. Take heart beyond what recent experiences is telling you. Paradoxically, these warm months are the wintering seasons.

And yet spring blooms. ‘‘It is spring again. The earth is like a child that knows poems by heart.’’ Rainer Maria Rilke, the reed in the wind, whispers the way of nature, the outer landscape becomes the inner. Ripening and dying, the seasons of the soul arose in his words, from seed to branch and flower.

We have walked among a spray now ripened. The wattle, colour of the sun, announced its arrival. And as an accompanist to this orchestral movement of fluttering yellow, daffodils peeked from the earth.

Walk through the parks and gardens, close your mind to the woes of the world, just for a minute, and breath in spring. People are walking their dogs, kids are playing on swings. It is in the moment you also can breathe in that most hopeless flower of the soul: faith in better days coming for those not to be blessed to live in a peaceful

REFLECTIONS

country; to hope that those hostage to cruelty will be liberated, or if not the adults, then the children.

September 1 was Wattle Day. How often does loveliness become official, its metaphorical sprig placed on the pages of the archives of the nation? On 19 August 1988, Governor-General Sir Ninian Stephen thus proclaimed “that the flowers of Acacia pycnantha, the plant known as Golden Wattle, however depicted, shall be the national floral emblem of Australia’’. In June four years later, the new Governor-General, Bill Hayden, declared September 1 as National Wattle Day.

There is no church, no lectern for the sermon. Do not the birds seem to sing happier airs to the air? Nature’s choir. It is an observation attributed to Ernest Hemingway that you could tell the war was over with the return of birds to a battlefield. In parts of the world, it is hard to have that faith.

Perhaps the seasons are but an imagining in life. Autumn, winter, spring and summer both memory and hope. Perhaps we take them in, breathe in their warmth and chill, see the wattle and the bare-limbed tree as the one. And place our faith in the awakening of the good in the people against the darkness.

with Eddie and Peter Gardiner

Tales of old Gisborne

Very few local people owned new cars in the 1940s and 1950s.

During the war there were 1940 models produced but 1941 cars were a rarity and from that year on during the war the factories only made vehicles like trucks and bren gun carriers for the army.

The motor companies didn’t resume making cars again until 1946.

The Shire Secretary, Keith Robinson, drove a 1929 Pontiac. The driver’s door flew open every time he hit a bump so he had to wind the window down and hold the door closed with his right elbow.

The Country Roads Board foreman was Wally Slender who drove a 1938 Chevrolet. He had served in France in WWI. One policeman, Mick Tuohey, had a T-Model Ford coupe. Dad bought it from him and sold the tyres. He then sold the car to Doug Brown who drove it back to his farm in Bullengarook on the wheel rims.

The Shire Works foreman, Stan Cox, rode a bike before he got a Ford Prefect ute. Harry Murphy had a Prefect too registration number PD 501.

Commuters to the city were a rarity. They drove vehicles like a 1936 Ford coupe, a 10-horsepower Ford Prefect, a 1948 Holden and a 1946 Bedford Panel Van.

Some brave and hardy souls got out early and hitchhiked, mainly on the trucks. They have remarkable and death-defying stories to tell. Out of gear (or in ‘angel gear’ as the truckies called it) down Gap Hill in a fully laden 1950s semi and hoping the railway gates at Diggers Rest were open was probably more dangerous than being on an 1850s sailing ship dodging the icebergs in the North Atlantic. And more than once the railway gates at Diggers Rest were not open.

Not to mention the array of maniac drivers everyone had stories to tell.

Con and Mick Dohoney owned two 1928 Fargo trucks they used to carry timber. Frank Slattery owned an A-Model Ford that had a canvas-covered cabin fitted onto the back section of the car. The car was known as the ‘To and From’ because it mainly took passengers to and from the railway station.

Carl Milray was a carpenter and carried his tools and

The vehicles of Gisborne

materials on a tiny old 1920s Morris utility. Carl was a huge bulky man and he could not fit behind the steering wheel so he sat in the passenger seat and drove from that position.

Matt Murray was the town’s undertaker and he owned a 1935 Ford V8 hearse.

Captain Rose drove a 1934 Austin coupe, his wife a 1934 Ford. Mrs Brunsell drove a Chev that had kneeaction suspension, Tom Ryan a 1928 A Model Ford, Fred Rathgeber a 1926 Chev, Austin Lysaght a 1936 10hp Ford coupe, Clarrie Faull a 1946 Bedford tray truck, Cyril Saunders a 1936 Dodge ute, Andy Beveridge a 1928 Rugby tourer, Vince Norton a 1936 10hp Ford van, Jack Heard a 1938 Dodge, Les Dixon a 1930 Bullnose Morris coupe, Lane Sear a 1936 Ford V8 coupe and Bill Brady a Riley.

About 15 farms surrounded the town and most of the farmers had old cars. Many of them were serviced and repaired at our garage in Hamilton Street. Our father Alec Gardiner employed Claude Wilson and Jimmy James who was the apprentice. Petrol was sold from bowsers on the footpath by the road’s edge.

The Gisborne farmers and their vehicles were Jack Heard who owned a 1938 Dodge, Jack McGregor who had a 1934 De Soto, Mr Dalrymple a ragtop Packard,

Les Dixon a 1930 bullnose Morris coupe, Bill Deverall an Essex then a Buick.

Hugh Robertson owned a 1939 Ford V8, the Watson sisters a 1926 single seater Singer, Daisy Watson a 1928 Jordan Playboy (a big American car with a box on the running board that you could put your golf clubs in), Frank Duggan an old Whippet, John Campbell a Buick, Ray Frith a Bedford ute and Mr Walter Sear owned an Alvis and later a Riley.

These old vehicles and others the same were common sights in the old town.

Father Gibbons and his 1927 Ford

Old Father Gibbons was the priest. I’m sure he was a better priest than he was a car driver. But off we went on those Sundays to Bullengarook in his 1937 Ford V8 two-door coupe and we’d pick up several of his older congregation on the way. One of the old men we picked up was old Ned Dineen.

Old Ned’s house bent over until it nearly touched the ground and poor old Ned sort of leaned the other way until he was nearly doubled over. The altar boy would have to fold the front seat forward and then back old Ned into the back seat. I think Father Gibbons was Irish as he had a funny way of speaking.

When everyone was back in the car Father would sing out: “Off again, on again, gone again, Finnigan” and with a shudder and a roar and a rev the poor old car, with its unsightly gas producer attached to the back, would rear up, shudder and shake and race off at what seemed like breakneck speed toward Mass at Bullengarook.

Peter

KIDS’ CORNER

Jokes & riddles

The best thing about a hobby is that it gives you something to do while you’re worrying about something else.

What did one duckling say to the other duckling when it found a lemon in their nest?

Look at the lemon Mama laid.

A cartoonist was found dead in his home. Details are sketchy.

Why can’t you ever trust atoms? Because they make up everything.

Doctor, Doctor, I’m having trouble with my breathing.

I’ll soon put a stop to that.

Jokes about German sausages are the wurst.

Who can jump into the water and not get his hair wet?

A man with a bald head.

KIDS' quiz

1. Which Australian coin is a dodecahedron?

2. What is the Roman numeral for 37?

3. Krakatoa is a famous Indonesian what?

4. In the US the NBL is the National what League?

5. What word is both the opposite of left and a correct answer?

6. In which section of the orchestra would you find flutes?

7. What kind of pet animal can be described as a tabby?

8. Which city is the capital of South Australia?

9. What is the Roman numeral for 555?

10. In cricket, LBW stands for leg before...…?

Can you find 10 differences between the pictures?

The National Entomology Insect Expo is Australia’s largest exhibition showcasing the science of entomology (insects) to the general public, and takes place in Woodend. This exhibition promises visitors a look into the fascinating world of insects and their relatives.

I started reading a fascinating book on anti-gravity. I couldn’t put it down.

Featuring entomologists, insect researchers, breeders, spider and scorpion keepers, insect educators and specialist insect retailers, this event also brings together a large number of static entomological collections, live insect displays, spiders, scorpions and related invertebrates, children’s workshops, and entomological merchandise.

Over 60 exhibitors from all over Australia will feature displays, many of which have never been seen by the public.

The National Insect Expo will be held at Buffalo Stadium, Woodend, on 3 to 5 October from 10am to 5pm daily. Tickets available at insectexpo.com.au Some may get closer than others but all likely to be facinated. Buffalo Stadium, Woodend, 3 to 5 October

Sponsored by Anglican Parish of Gisborne ■ Uniting Church in Australia ■ St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Gisborne ■ St Brigid’s Parish ■ House of the Rock Church, Gisborne ■ Gisborne Church of Christ

Anglican parish Spring Fair returns

Spring has arrived, and with it comes the Anglican Parish of Gisborne’s annual Spring Fair a celebration of community, creation, and joy. This year’s theme is ‘All Creatures Great & Small’, reminding us of the beauty of God’s creation and our shared life with all living things.

The fair will be held in the parish hall on the corner of Fisher and Brantome Streets on Saturday, 4 October from 10am to 2pm, and promises a day filled with colour, fun and fellowship. From stalls brimming with homemade goods, plants and treasures, to children’s activities and delicious food, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

One of the highlights will be the Blessing of the Pets at 11am, and families are warmly invited to bring along their beloved animals whether furry, feathered, or even scaly for a special blessing. It is a joyful way to give thanks for the creatures who bring companionship, delight and love into our lives.

As our spring fair coincides with the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, known affectionately as the patron saint of animals, we’re taking this opportunity to offer a special prayer for those whose lives enrich our own.

But this day is more than just a fair. It’s an opportu-

Don’t miss St Andrew’s Quilt and Craft Show

The St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church Craft Group Quilt and Craft Show in the church and hall is ready. The quilts are finished and we will also be showing our other creative endeavours.

The show runs from 9.30am to 3pm on Saturday 4 October with a large selection of quilts displayed. Some of the quilters will be available to talk about their work and where the quilts will be donated following the show. The hall will also display card and bead making that can be participated in. As well, soup and Devonshire teas will be available.

Entry and refreshments are free but donations will be gratefully accepted for the Gisborne Food Bank.

For information, please contact Marsha 0428 843 959 or Marion 0448 887 657.

THE CHURCHES

St Brigid’s Parish Gisborne

Welcome two new faces

As forecast last month, we welcome Fr John Healy as the new Parish Priest of St Brigid’s. Fr. John is also Parish Priest to St Ambrose in Woodend and St Mary’s in Lancefield and Romsey. He will continue to reside at the Woodend Presbytery. We also welcome Fr Wahid Riad as the new Assistant Priest across all of the parishes. He will reside at the Gisborne Presbytery.

2025 baptism

Baptism is available all year round on the fourth Sunday of each month. Please contact the parish office for the next available dates.

nity for the parish to open its doors wide and extend a hand of welcome to the wider community.

Funds raised will help us continue to serve our local community with compassion, faith, and hope.

Quilts on display in the church

St Paul’s Anglican Op Shop Jottings

In March this year, Audrey was asked if she could volunteer on Wednesdays in our sorting shed, and as needed in the Op Shop. Audrey happily agreed, having worked during school holidays when she was 13 in an op shop.

She says, “I love working in the sorting shed as it is full of laughter and joy, just like a family.”

“For me, working there is a way to give back to the community. Everyone needs to know that they matter. It’s about hope.”

A cheery hello and a smile as customers come into the Op Shop usually makes people smile back, and a “Come back again, and God bless you” follows them out the door, so they know they will be welcomed when they drop in next for our great bargains.

With men’s and women’s clothes at $3, and kids at

$2; with name brands and those still with price tags at $5 or $10, no one need go without nice clothes. Supporting those doing it tough locally, and keeping stuff out of landfill, we make money that we use to support local, national and international missions.

Audrey is one of our youngest volunteers, and we would love to have many more like her.

She says, “I enjoy meeting the wonderful people who live in our community.”

Anyone care to join us as a volunteer?

Jan Volkman Harris, Volunteer

Enquiries to: gisborne@cam.org.au or 5428 2591

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

Normal weekend services

Saturday 6pm St Brigid’s Gisborne

Sunday 8am St Ambrose Riddells Creek

Sunday 9:30am St Patrick’s Macedon

Sunday 11am St Brigid’s Gisborne Everyone welcome!

House of the Rock supports Samaritan’s Purse

House of the Rock Church is distributing and collecting shoeboxes filled with gifts to give to children living in a developing nation who rarely if ever receive gifts at Christmas time.

Since 1993, more than 200 million children in more than 100 countries and territories have received an ‘Operation Christmas Child’ shoebox.

We invite you to pick up a shoebox, which are now available from House of the Rock Church, 247 Station Road, New Gisborne. Phone Jenny Barnes on 0428 262 039 or drop in. You can pack a shoebox for a Girl or a Boy aged 2-4, 5-9 or 10-14.

Return collection dates run from 13 October to the last return date which is Sunday 26 October.

Packing suggestions and instructions are given out with the boxes. A donation of $12.50 per box covers the cost of shipping etc. If you donate online you can follow the destination of your shoebox.

‘Operation Christmas Child’ is a project of Samaritan’s Purse, an international relief organisation. It is a hands-on way to demonstrate God’s love to children in need across the world by filling shoeboxes with toys, hygiene items, school supplies and fun gifts. We collect the boxes and distribute them to children living in vulnerable situations. To learn more you can visit their website, operationchristmaschild.org.au

Church of the Resurrection leads creek restoration

The Parish of Gisborne with generous support from Melbourne Water and the Macedon and Mount Macedon Landcare Group has ontinued its commitment to restoring Riddells Creek. The Church of the Resurrection was the first property to complete Stage 2 works in a section near Mount Macedon Road.

In a spirited morning of community action on 14 September, volunteers planted 1000 native grasses, sedges and lilies along the creek bank. These plantings will help stabilise the soil, improve water quality, and support the health of the riparian corridor.

“Many hands make light work,” one volunteer remarked, as the team completed the planting in half the expected time just in time for a well-earned morning tea.

Earlier, the parish engaged contractor NatureLinks to undertake extensive control of invasive species, including willows, blackberries, and other woody weeds. This groundwork has paved the way for native regeneration and long-term ecological resilience.

�� Looking ahead: Stage 3 planting is scheduled for spring next year. Keep an eye out for volunteer

Gardens galore

Gisborne Uniting Church

There are more gardeners in Australia than there are golfers. And as spring came to the Macedon Ranges, we swapped admiring comments about golden wattles and haughty camellias with other locals.

There is increasing happy labour in making our area a delicious place for birds, butterflies and bees and all those other inhabitants of gardens.

The Gisborne Uniting congregation is about to make a contribution to this continuing love for growing and gardening in our community.

On Saturday 29 November, our talented gardeners will have their wares for sale. From 10am to 2pm, join us in front of the church in Brantome Street, just across from the Gisborne Village Shopping Centre.

There’ll be potted plants aplenty – in time for finding the absolutely right Christmas present for those gardeners or would-be, should-be gardeners among your family and friends.

Gardening skills are also in demand for those who no longer are able to hoe and prune.

People confined to hospitals, aged care facilities or even limited around their own homes often grieve for their gardens.

A small band from our congregation has been un-

opportunities—your hands could help shape the next chapter of this restoration story.

dertaking the rewarding task of a backyard blitz to help. Gardening can be many things. It can be a lovely escape from the cares of the world but it can also be a contribution to those calls from botanist scientists about being part of healing our damaged land.

Janet Wood

Frontier Services supports Outback

Mt Macedon Uniting Church

Frontier Services officer James Nevein spoke of their work in outback and remote Australia at Mount Macedon Uniting Church recently. First Nations Bush Chaplain Julia Lennon has faithfully served the people of Oodnadatta for 20 years.

Oodnadatta now has a new airconditioned church and community healing garden enabling resilience, restoration and hope for a town long shaped by hardship and disconnection. It is a permanent space for Sunday school and services, youth activities and a safe place for elders to rest on 50OC days outside.

Another chaplain in NSW supports a Rural Fire Service firefighter who was badly burnt on Black Saturday, with burns to 80% of his body, has trouble breathing and speaking and poor vision. He enjoys the weekly visits from the Chaplain having Psalms read to him. The same Chaplain was helping flood victims recently when he heard his home was flooded and could not get home for six weeks.

The Australian Inland Mission, Federal Methodist Inland Mission and the Congregational Church’s outback work became Frontier Services with formation of the Uniting Church in Australia in 1977. Frontier Services Bush Chaplains drive over 3000 kilometres daily to bring companionship and support to people living in over 80% of Australia’s land mass, including the west coast of Tasmania and the high country of East Gippsland and south-east NSW.

We are privileged to contribute to the work of the Bush Chaplains who sacrifice so much to help the people of remote areas.

175th anniversary of St Andrews Presbyterian Church

A celebration of the 175th anniversary of St Andrews Church will be held on 8 November in the church, Fisher Street, Gisborne, starting at 2pm, followed by afternoon tea in the hall.

WHAT'S ON

REGULAR MEETINGS

OCTOBER 1925

Our District in the Limelight: On Sept. 24th the following letter, in an envelope endorsed “O.H.M.S.” was received from the Mitchell Library, Sydney - Sir, I have the honor to inform you that this library is essentially an Australian collection and that the aim of the Trustees is to obtain as far as possible a copy of every book and pamphlet published in Australasia... and it is with the desire to make this library as complete as possible ... that I respectfully ask you to present a copy of the serial ‘Reminiscences of a Victorian Detective’ by D.G. O’Donnell [of Bullengarook]....”

This goes far to show the extent of our circulation and how important the ‘Reminiscences of a Victorian Detective’ are regarded when the greatest Australasian library seeks to preserve it in its archives for future reference.

Gisborne Gazette 2 October 1925 District News – Toolern Vale: A boring plant has been working on Mr. [Robert] Moffat’s farm A sufficient supply of good stock water was tapped at something under 200 feet [60m]. The plant will shortly be started on Mr. [Arthur] Le Patourel’s ‘Mt. Aitken’ property where it is hoped to find water at a similar depth. About 200 feet seems to be the average depth of underground water in these parts.

Gisborne Gazette 9 October 1925

If your group is missing from this list, please email gisbornegazetteeditor@gmail.com with details.

ADULT RIDING CLUB (Gis) 2nd Saturday Robertson Res, Sth Gis. ADULT RIDING CLUB (Bullengarook) 2nd Saturday Rec Reserve AMATEUR RADIO CLUB 3rd Saturday 10am Woodend RSL. www.mrarc.org.au

BADMINTON Tues 8.30pm & Thurs 9.30am, Macedon Community Centre, macedonrangesbadminton@ gmail.com or David 0419 589 425 BOTANIC GARDENS working bee first & last Thurs every month 9.30am-11am email infogisbotgard@gmail.com

BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP 1st & 3rd Tues 10.30am, Canteena, Gisborne. Enquiries, call Lesley 0484 691 226 BUSHWALKING CLUB Various locations 0402 088 491 or secretary@gisbornebwc.org.au

CANASTA CLUB Macedon & Mt Macedon Community House Wednesdays 2pm

CAR CLUB (Mac Ranges & District Motor Club 1st Wednesday, 8pm, Steam Park, New Gisb. secretary@mradmc.com.au

CARERS GROUP (Mac Ranges) 2nd & 4th Thurs, 1pm Woodend RSL Cherry 5420 7132 (Note: 4th Thurs carers only) COMMUNITY GARDEN Wed 9.30am Church of Christ (Facebook for updates)

CROCHET & CONVERSATIONS 1st Mon 2.30pm Gisborne Library

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

CWA GISBORNE 2nd Monday 10am Gis Secondary College

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PHOENIX ART & CRAFTS 1st Thursday phoenixmrac.com

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

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

PONY CLUB Bullengarook 1st Sunday Rec Reserve

PONY CLUB Gisborne 1st Sunday Robertson Reserve

PROBUS 1st Thurs 10am Susan 0419 530 041 Gisborne Community Centre hall

RAMBLERS Fridays 9.15am meet Tennis Club Dixon Field

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

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

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

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

SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCERS Thurs 1-3 Buffalo Stadium Woodend, 0409 166 783

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

SUPPORT AFTER SUICIDE 2nd Mon each month, even if public holiday, 7-8.30pm Newham Mechanics (1292 Rochford Rd)

Gisborne Old Boys’ Association Annual Dinner/General Meeting. Mr. Albert Dixon read the annual report showing that the Association was financially sound. He hoped that the bronze bust of Henry Howey, Gisborne’s first pioneer of 1837, would be ready for unveiling on the next visit of the Melbourne members to Gisborne on Foundation Day, so that a red letter day could be made of it.

GENEALOGY GROUP 4th Thurs 7.30 Family Hist Rm, Library

GIRL GUIDES Thursdays 5pm Gis Scout Hall

GISBORNE SINGERS Wed 7.30pm Gisborne Uniting Church

HISTORICAL SOCIETY open Wed 10am-4pm Court House

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

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

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

Gisborne Gazette 16 October 1925

A Bay Excursion. A meeting of the executive committee of the Bay Excursion Association was held at Gisborne last Monday. The financial statement relating to the excursion held in February last revealed a profit of £72 and the general balance amounted to £325. The Bay Steamers Co. having intimated that as the first Monday in February next would be a public holiday, a boat would not be available for the excursion on a date corresponding with that on which the trip had usually been held. It was suggested that 25th January should be booked and the secretary, having secured that date, his action was approved. It was decided that the “Weerona” be chartered and that the trip should be to Sorrento, calling at Queenscliffe.

Camps on the Mount: It is proposed [by the Woodend Progress Association] to establish two camps on the Mount and to make provision for water and electric light installation and other necessary conveniences at each. It is believed that large numbers of motorists, golfers and others desiring to lead “the simple life” in the bracing air and scenic beauty of Mt. Macedon will take advantage of camps of the kind proposed and spend weekends and longer periods there.

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

MASONIC LODGE 2nd Thurs 7pm Masonic Hall Aitken St MASTERS AFL Wed 6.30pm all year round Sankey Reserve

Baringo Film Club

Screening times: 2.30pm Wednesday, 7pm Friday, 2.30pm Saturday

OCTOBER

Date

TABLE TENNIS Wed 7.30pm Tony Clarke Res, Macedon Stan 0437 508 338

THUNDER SWIMMING CLUB 2nd Sat 5pm Gisborne Aquatic Centre Peter 0402 088 491 TOY LIBRARY gisbornetoylibrary@yahoo.com.au Sat. 9.30-11am 71 Robertson St

ULYSSES GROUP 3rd Tues 6pm Sunbur y FC secretary@mrub.org.au

VINTAGE MACHINERY Working bees 1st Sun of month, 8.30am Steam Park; meetings last Friday of month 7pm Steam Park 0419 393 023

WRITERS (Scribes & Scribblers) 2nd Tues 10am-12 Riddell Neighbourhood House 5428 7836

YOUNG VOICES Thursdays 4.15-5.45pm House of the Rock, New Gisborne; yvmacedon.org.au or sdggome@patash.com.au

crossword answers

Film

Oct 1-4 Widow Cliquot (UK period drama) 8-11 The Founder (US; the start of McDonald’s) 15-18 Poor Things (UK drama, 2hrs 31 min) 22-25 The Promised Land (Danish history/exploration 29-1 Nov A Horse Named Winks (Australian) www.baringofilmclub.com

QUIZ answers

Learn. Care.

Junior School Showcase

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

We invite you to experience the amazing project work of our Junior School students:

• Year 7 Gallery of Learning • Year 8 Make a Difference (MAD) Projects

• Year 9 Major Projects

Sacred Heart College Kyneton

• Year 7 - 9 Art & Design Exhibition