Macedon Ranges Blue

Macedon Ranges Blue is the local autism awareness campaign, part of the national, Autism Speaks Light it up Blue initiative. See article, Light on autism awareness (Guardian, 28/03/13), for more information.
Local Events during Autism Awareness Month:

April 2 
World Autism day 
Landmarks will be lit up blue 
Romsey - tree, fountain and shops
Woodend- clock tower Gisborne- fountain
Lancefield - businesses and shops

April 1 - 7
Blue autism awareness displays
Visual displays and information in business windows in Romsey 

April 4
Fundraising dinner for Playconnect autism spectrum disorder playgroup 
Sicilian Vespers Restaurant, Main Road, Romsey
Tino Fichera, 5429 3909

April 6
* Barbecue at Romsey Skate Park 
Short walk and balloon release
Kids activities
Romsey Lions Reserve/Romsey Skate Park 
12 - 2.30pm
* Lions Club visit with Righteous pup (autism spectrum disorder trained companion dog)
Romsey Lions Reserve/Romsey Skate Park 
* Romsey Football Club 
Blue practice match players run through blue banner and wear blue arm bands

Each Friday
* Playconnect, ASD playgroup for children from diagnoses to school (2-6 years) 
Romsey Community Hub 
* All Abilities kids health and fitness programs
Kids come and try day
Romsey Community Stadium
Mel Traynor, 0430 370 361

April 10
Macedon Ranges support group 
Morning tea 
Ethic Cafe, Woodend
Fiona Le Nepveu, 5421 1693

April 20
Pie eating competition
Fundraiser for the Macedon Ranges Autism Specturn Disorder Support Group 
Giveaways and prizes
Country Cob Bakery, Mollison Street, Kyneton 
10.30am 
Kate Neale, 0427 226 645

April 24
Macedon Ranges support group lunch 
Country Cob Bakery, Mollison Street, Kyneton 
12.30pm
Kate Neale, 0427 226 645

April 22
Question and answer session
Professor Tonge
Autism and adolescence
For parents, school staff, youth workers
Cobaw Community Health Woodend, 47 Forest Street 
6 - 8pm
Supper provided
Cobaw 5421 1680

April 29
May 6
May 13
Autism spectrum disorder in preschool years
Three professional development sessions for kinder and childcare staff
Cobaw Community Health Woodend, 47 Forest Street 
6 - 8pm
Fiona Le Nepveu 5421 1693

Month of April 
* Primary and secondary schools awareness activities
Cobaw staff will provide talks to schools in Macedon Ranges
* Macedon Ranges schools get on board to fundraise and raise awareness and acceptance of difference
Blue activities
For Amaze (Autism Victoria)
* Amaze will offer the Supporting Differences program to schools in the Macedon Ranges
To raise awareness of differences in the classroom and understanding students with an autism spectrum disorder

End of April 
Raffle drawn 
Fundraiser for Macedon Ranges Autism Spectrum Disorder Support Group


For more information on these events, please contact Macedon Ranges Blue organiser, Shantelle Grant on 0411 444 447. 

Cooking up a storm

Woodend SES volunteers cook up a storm for breakfast for 250 campers at Hanging Rock last weekend.

The annual Camp Out at the Rock was held last weekend, an event in which Hanging Rock Reserve is opened to the public for camping one night per year.

The Woodend SES provided a barbecue dinner and a barbecue breakfast for all campers.

Campers enjoyed a campfire, a night walk around the base of Hanging Rock with the ranger and the screening of the classic film, Picnic at Hanging Rock.

This year, in excess of 250 campers enjoyed the mild weather and the amazing location, along with the culinary skills of Woodend SES volunteers as they prepared 500 sausages, 200 hamburgers, 10 kilograms of bacon, 20 dozen eggs, 40 loaves of bread, 100 hash browns, six kilograms of onions and other culinary delights!

This year's Camp Out raised in excess of $1400 for the Woodend SES which is a great outcome as the unit this week launches its new campaign to raise $160,000 for a new rescue truck, to replace one that was removed from service in late 2012 in a state-wide safety alert and recall.

If you would like to make a donation or enquire about joining the SES, contact the unit on 5427 2932.

Easter bunnies out to play

Easter came a week early in Woodend. 

Little kindergym bunnies hopped around the Buffalo Stadium Kindergym at its Easter celebrations last Friday. 

Kindergym classes resume after the school holidays on Friday April 19.

Best friends Alice and Isla, 21 months, inspect each other's new bunny faces.

Darcy, 6 months, is transformed into a cute little rabbit.

Sam and Niamh, 2, get the giggles playing in the ball pit.

 

Leah, 2, and Patrick, 23 months, dressed for the occasion and ready for playtime under the parachute.

Danger averted at Cobaw

A truck on fire at Cobaw on Monday.

 A firefighter with breathing apparatis climbs the truck.

Angela Crawford

The quick action of a passer-by prevented a truck fire at Cobaw on Monday from developing into a potentially dangerous incident. Fire brigades from Newham, Lancefield and Kerrie were called to the scene on Three Chain Road at about 4.15pm. 

It is believed that a tyre on the tip trailer of the earth-moving truck had either begun to shed or had blown out and the rear wheels had caught fire.

The driver quickly stopped, disconnected the truck from the trailer and moved to safety, before calling for help. By the time brigades arrived, a road maintenance water truck had arrived, backed up to the trailer and was spraying water onto the flames. The fire was not extinguished but was largely contained. Some of the tyres had burnt and blown out and had melted a hole in the bottom of the aluminium trailer, causing a load of gravel to spill out. A brigade member who is also a mechanic assisted the truck driver with repair required to reattach the half-burnt trailer and drag it out of the way. Shire road maintenance staff graded the gravel off the road.

Newham brigade captain, David Bachelor, commended the action of the passing truck driver in spraying the truck.

"It made the job a whole lot easier and saved the aluminium from burning and melting, which could have been dangerous," he said.

Eyes on the pies!

Declan and Kate Neale of County Cob Bakery in Kyneton invite you to enter their pie eating competition in support of Autism Awareness Month this April.

April is Autism Awareness Month and to celebrate and raise awareness and funds, Country Cob Bakery in Kyneton will be hosting a pie eating competition on Saturday, April 20, at 10.30am. 

Owners, Declan and Kate Neale, are looking for members of the local community to participate as entrants and seek sponsorship per pie consumed and/or donations. All funds raised will go towards Romsey Play Connect - supporting families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder. 

Giveaways and prizes on offer!

If you or someone you may know is interested, contact the bakery via FB or call in to the shop at 130 Mollison Street, or phone Declan on 0409 700 513. 

How about asking your football coach, teacher, local police or CFA to stuff their face with pie for a good cause!

A FINALIST!

Following on from its recent success at the Baking Association of Australia's (BAA) 'Easter in the Fruit Bowl Competition', Country Cob Bakery was recently named a finalist in the Australia Small Business Champion Awards, Bakery/Cake category. 

Declan and Kate will head to Sydney in April for the Gala Dinner and Awards Presentation at The Grand Ballroom at The West in Sydney hosted by Gretel Killeen.

Good luck guys!

Light on autism awareness

Romsey sisters, Alice, 10, Abbie (back) 13, and Libby Quigley, 8, are supporters of the Macedon Ranges Blue autism awareness campaign. Photo: Shantelle Images

Kylie Kitchen 

One in 100 children is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). 

It's a high statistic, yet many people misunderstand the condition because it presents in such different ways in different people and is often mistaken for naughty or anti-social behaviour. 

Anyone who has ever judged a parent with a tantrum-throwing child in tow could be guilty of judging a mum or dad with an autistic child.

Romsey mother and integration aide, Shantelle Grant, is working to create awareness and understanding for autistic children and their families with the month-long Macedon Ranges Blue event. 

Shantelle's eight-year-old daughter was diagnosed with ASD when she was three-and-a-half.

"I still remember the first day I had to say to a parent, 'my child has autism, please give her some space'. I still remember that day because you do feel so lost and not as good because your child's not doing what's expected," Shantelle said.

Shantelle said parents of autistic children are often alienated in society. 

While accepting the diagnosis and taking their children to the many medical appointments, they are also dealing with judgement from strangers and rejection from friends. 

"It's really hard for parents, especially in society when they're made to feel that they're not good enough parents or they've done something wrong," she said.

Shantelle's daughter is a happy, bubbly girl, with a wicked sense of humour. Her ASD presents in strong drawing skills and an incredible memory for the details of her passions such as movies and dinosaurs. ASD is also evident in her social and emotional struggles. 

"She wants to play with her peers but doesn't know how. She always wants to be around her friends but sometimes it doesn't go quite right, so you have to gauge a lot of her social activity," Shantelle said.

Shantelle works with many ASD children and families as facilitator of the Play Connect ASD playgroup.

She said although all the children experience ASD differently, they share a sensitivity to the world around them - whether it be a reaction to loud noise, bright lights, certain smells, tastes or textures. 

"Their world is so different to ours," Shantelle said.

"They find things very overwhelming. They're very sensory-based children. All their senses are heightened, that's why their reactions are more extreme."

People with ASD have difficulty with communication, change, and flexible thinking. 

"They don't use the emotions they're feeling, they don't pick up on social cues, they suffer a lot of anxiety, and they don't cope well when they're not prepared for change, that's why they love routine," Shantelle said.

"I say to people put your hand on their heart and you'll feel how fast it beats and that gives you an insight into the anxiety they feel and what might be going on in their head."

There is no cure for ASD, it is a lifelong disability. 

Autism affects just as many adults as children, and many are undiagnosed. 

The message of Macedon Ranges Blue, part of the national Autism Speaks Light It Up Blue campaign, is awareness and understanding for all people and their differences.

Throughout April, events will be held in Kyneton, Woodend and Romsey to educate, advocate and fundraise for ASD. 

"It's about teaching people to understand and accept people who are different, without them being considered not good enough or teased," Shantelle said.

"My dream would be for people to be aware and have empathy and understanding for all children and adults, not just those with autism."

On Tuesday, World Autism Day, Romsey will light up blue. Landmarks will be illuminated to symbolise the launch of the Macedon Ranges Blue events. See the full events listing in next week's Midland Express or in Macedon Ranges Blue.

Drug bust - Woodend

Almost eight kilograms of cannabis and a quantity of other illicit drugs were seized in a drug bust at Woodend on Tuesday morning.

A 49-year-old Woodend man has been charged with a string of drug-related offences, following the execution of a search warrant at an address in Ashbourne Road, Woodend, on Tuesday morning.

Members of the Central Victorian Response Unit located and seized almost eight kilograms of cannabis, 51 grams of ice (crystal methamphetamine), $6820 in cash being the proceeds of crime, 37 ecstasy tablets, 15 grams of an unidentified powder which will be tested, three prescription tablets, 30 mils of liquid GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyrate, aka grievous bodily harm), two imitation firearms and one long arm.

The man was arrested and charged with 23 offences including trafficking and possession of the drugs and possession of handguns and the proceeds of crime.

He was remanded into custody to face court on Wednesday morning. 

Information from a member of the public assisted in the investigation which led to the arrest.

Music and wine - Pop-up fundraiser for Artists for Orphans

 Internationally acclaimed harpist, Mary Doumany will be a special guest at 

a fundraising event in Kyneton for Artists for Orphans.

Live music in an intimate wine bar setting is the foundation for Artists for Orphans' (AFO) latest fundraiser.

Proceeds will support AFO and its work to assist orphaned children, particularly those affected by Agent Orange, widely known as a chemical warfare herbicide used in the Vietnam War and still causing birth defects.

The event, Marcie Jones and Friends, will be hosted at Ruby's Pop-Up Wine Bar, at Ruby Cafe, Kyneton.

"While you enjoying a glass of red, white or beer and listening to the superb live music, you will be supporting Agent Orange affected and orphaned children in Vietnam," AFO founder and event organiser, Roni Wildeboer said.

Roni plans to run the event monthly, starting on Saturday, April 6, 7-11pm.

The opening fundraiser will feature special guest performer, internationally acclaimed harpist, Mary Doumany.

"(It) will be a great night and will also raise funds for Artists for Orphans Inc.," Roni said.

The event will recreate the wine bars of the 60s and 70s, Roni says.

"We want to revive the wonderful, cosy atmosphere of those bygone days.

Tickets are limited and available at Ruby Cafe, $20.

Connecting art with the public - Art Trail gives 45 reasons to visit

Founder of the new Macedon Ranges Art Trail, Nadine Hartnett, with Woodend glass artist, Ettore Di Pilla. Photo: Chris Fleming

The new Macedon Ranges Art Trail being launched this weekend will connect 45 artists, galleries and artisan businesses with the public.

It promotes the area's rich and diverse artistic community, and gives some of the most creative residents in the Macedon Ranges highly desired and strong exposure to a bigger audience than they have had in the past.

By Easter, a vibrant brochure will be available from the Kyneton and Woodend visitor information centres, and various galleries, eateries and accommodation places. It will feature contact details for the 31 participating artists, including website addresses where available, and listings for 12 galleries and two artisan businesses.

The brochure will be downloadable to the shire's tourism website www.visitmacedonranges.com.au, which is the major online information service for the area. According to this website, the Macedon Ranges shire has more working artists per capita than anywhere else in Victoria.

The Macedon Ranges Art Trail is an independent initiative of Woodend freelance writer, Nadine Hartnett, who received $3000 from the Macedon Ranges Shire Council last year to produce a brochure to promote local artists and galleries.

Over the next few months it is hoped the hard copy brochure will be distributed in Melbourne and regional centres.

All private studios on the Art Trail will be open on an appointment only basis until March 2014. Individual artists will decide when to accept visitors.

A Facebook page has been established to display artwork by the participants, advertise exhibitions and workshops, and generate dialogue among anyone interested in visual arts and craftsmanship.

Positive messages passed on

The enthusiastic Live4Life crew, made up of 35 year nines and 10s from five local colleges, launched Live4Life 2013 for their year eight peers this week.

Kylie Kitchen

Macedon Ranges year eight students were given a captivating introduction to youth mental health initiative, Live4Life, on Tuesday.

The students are set to follow in the footsteps of past Live4Life groups in transforming internal awareness, social attitudes and schoolyard dynamics through the year-long program.

Since its beginnings in late 2009, students, teachers and parents have sung high praise for the locally-born Live4Life.

Teens are educated to identify, talk about and manage their mental health and that of their peers.

At the 2013 launch this week, mental health messages were delivered via mediums ranging from poetry slam and song, to videos and talks.

"The students get some really great, simple messages," council youth development unit coordinator, Pauline Neil said.

"One is that we all have mental health issues and there are some key support people in their life and if they're worried at all about what is going on for them that they can tell an adult and get the support they need.

"The other key message is that talking about mental health is very fun. We've worked very hard at making sure the association with the Live4Life brand as one of fun and trying to address the stigma.

"As Sam Hasell (a participant in Live4Life's first year) said in his opening, 'Live4Life is not just a community, it felt like I was part of a family'. To be involved in a mental health program and to get that sense from it as a young person is quite extraordinary."

An energetic year nine and 10 crew hosted the event, drawing on their experience as Live4Life participants in the past two years.

Ms Neil commended the crew for successfully holding the attention of 600 young teens. 

"It was certainly the best launch we've had to date," she said.

"The way in which the Live4Life crew worked toward the launch and really took control on the day was fantastic.

"It was high energy, the students said it was a lot of fun."

The interactive event included a DVD on sexting, a game busting mental health myths, a short play depicting issues around mental health, and a session addressing the question, 'Why is it important to destigmatise mental illness?'. 

"They really enjoyed it and they though the DVD was really powerful," Ms Neil said.

"The message was really that each person sitting there has the ability to make good choices and can predict the impact of making a poor choice on themselves and those around them."

Live4Life is an initiative by Cobaw Community Health, Macedon Ranges Council, Victoria Police and local schools, Sacred Heart College, Kyneton Secondary College, Braemar College, Gisborne Secondary College and Macedon Grammar.

In terms two and three, the year eights will cover topics, 'What's up', 'In Your Head', 'Body Talk' and 'Helping Hand'. Parents will have the opportunity to participate in Youth Mental Health First Aid training as part of the program.

Lock up your cars - police plea

Sen-Constable Kate Marjoram and Sen-Constable Jay Harrison check out cars during a routine patrol in a Castlemaine car park. Police have been leaving warning stickers on cars where the doors have been left open or where valuables have been left inside.

Jeff Jones

The latest police statistics show an alarming increase in certain categories of property crime in Macedon Ranges and Mount Alexander shires. 

In particular, there has been a rise in the number of motor vehicles being stolen and a hike in the amount of property being stolen from motor cars. 

The number of cars stolen across the area increased from 69 in 2011 to 80 during the 2012 calendar year representing a 16 per cent increase. 

The trend is even more concerning when it comes to property being stolen from cars with a 21 per cent increase observed, up from 116 to 140. 

Local Area Commander, Inspector Ryan Irwin, said there were a number of simple steps people could take to help police curb the trend. 

"Inadequate security is often a factor in these offences," Inspector Ryan said.

"When reviewing property crimes committed in recent months, it is apparent that complacency is a common factor with many of these offences involving vehicles that had been left unlocked or with valuables left unsecured and in easy reach of thieves. 

"A number of offences involved tools and other valuables being stolen from the rear of utes and trailers."

Inspector Irwin said thieves often pursued soft targets.

"Leaving your car unlocked is making life easy for a thief," he said.

"On a number of occasions vehicles had property stolen while parked in the driveway at home with doors left unlocked. "Unfortunately many people still think 'it wont happen to me' and fail to take adequate security measures. Similarly there is a level of complacency involved when people park at shopping centres and leave vehicles unlocked while attending retail outlets.

"It only takes a matter of seconds to become a victim in these circumstances and we are urging locals to be more vigilant and more security conscious."

Inspector Irwin said people often think that because they are leaving the car for a short period of time there is less need to lock it. "This is not the case," he said. "Unfortunately many people have returned to their unlocked vehicle after an absence of a few minutes only to find that their mobile phone, purse or other valuables have been stolen. People need to be security conscious at all times including when at home or visiting shopping centres." 

As well as always locking unattended vehicles, people should remember not to leave any valuables in sight. 

"Leaving your mobile phone or wallet on the seat or on the dashboard can be like a beacon to a passing thief.

"Always take valuables with you when you leave your car unattended or at least have them secured away out of sight." 

Police are also urging people to report any suspicious behaviour to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Creative partnership

Daylesford Macedon Ranges Open Studios will partner with Woodend Winter Arts Festival this year.

The local arts trail event, which premiered last November, has announced the first of several new initiatives for its 2013 program. Well known artists Robyn Clarke, Tim Jones, Petrus Spronk and Anita von Bibra will discuss: 'How relevant is landscape today for artists?' in a panel moderated by Mary Lou Jelbart, artistic director of popular fortyfivedownstairs gallery and performance space, former Radio National commentator on the Visual Arts, on Saturday, June 8, during the Woodend Winter Arts Festival. 

Mary Lou Jelbart, artistic director, fortyfivedownstairs, will moderate a panel discussion 

on 'How relevant is landscape today for artists?' as part of the 

Woodend Winter Arts Festival in June. photo: Jeff Busby

Robyn Clarke is a Woodend-based painter, printmaker and art teacher who has written on art for The Age and The Encyclopaedia of Australian Art. She will be guest artist at the Woodend Winter Arts Festival. 

Anita von Bibra is a well-known artist who represents a wide range of metropolitan and regional artists at Woodbine - her Malmsbury gallery.

Tim Jones is a sculptor and wood engraver whose work is inspired by local landscape and childhood memory. He is represented in most of Australia's public collections and the British Museum.

Petrus Spronk lives in a clearing in the forest near Daylesford. He walks in the forest daily and considers it his studio and gallery.

DMROS at WWAF will take place at The Chamber Art and Coffee House, 90 High Street, Woodend on Saturday, June 8, from 5.15 - 6.30pm. The event will be the media launch of DMROS 2013 - and include a celebratory glass of wine and refreshments, along with a copy of the guidebook for the November program. 

Last call for artist applications for DMROS 2013 is Friday, March 22. Download the guidelines and application form at www.dmropenstudios.com.au, email info@dmropenstudios.com.au or call creative producer Jill Rivers on 0418 389 189. 

Bookings for the Queen's Birthday Panel Event are through www.woodendwinterfestival.org.au or WWAF enquiries 0447 570 327.

Dust won't settle

Dust from an unsealed Macedon street is so bad a resident says he is unable to sit outside on his deck. 

Unsealed Heath Street is becoming an increasingly popular alternative route to Victoria Street as an access to and from town facilities such as the train station, shops and cafes. 

Resident, Barry Southall, believes the traffic increase warrants sealing of the dirt road.

"This blasted dust is chocking the wife and I, especially in this hot, dry summer," Mr Southall said.

Heath Street, Macedon resident, Barry Southall, believes increased 

traffic warrants sealing of the dust producing dirt road.

"We can't even sit out on the front deck and enjoy a coffee.

"This little road of ours used to be a track, now it's a major road. We loved out little dirt track going back 40 odd years ago, but now it's an increase two fold of traffic."

In summer, Mr Southall hoses the road down to reduce the amount of dust.

In winter, he said rain washes away the surface and the road becomes littered with potholes.

Mr Southall has complained to Macedon Ranges Council about the matter over a number of years.

"They keep telling me, 'you must contribute', but I'm a pensioner and this is what our rates should pay for," Mr Southall said.

"Every couple of years they grade the road downhill. You're left with just a lot of dust."

Councillor Russell Mowatt visited the site to understand Mr Southall's concerns.

"His concern is warranted and I've spoken to the unit regarding those concerns," Cr Mowatt said.

"We did explain that there is a special charge scheme if you want to get it sealed.

"The traffic movements at this stage don't justify going down that track (of sealing the road at council cost).

"It would be nice to seal everything in the shire but we're not in a position to do that."

Too tight for toys

Bridget (centre) and friends Laura and Clara play with educational toys from Kyneton Toy Library.

Kylie Kitchen 

Kyneton Toy Library's location has been reduced from a room to a cupboard, leaving it significantly short of space to store its collection.

A room at the Kyneton Maternal Child Health Centre had housed the toy library for more than 20 years.

Recent Macedon Ranges Council renovations at the centre have seen that room become an access way for a new disabled toilet.

A wall-to-wall cupboard was installed for the toy library to replace the room, but volunteers say the alternative space is insufficient to store the collection of more than 350 toys.

Kyneton Toy Library volunteer, Lisa Ohlmus, is frustrated at council's actions. 

"In the last two months since council notified us about the works, we've repeatedly told staff the renovated space would be woefully inadequate and we require an outdoor shed to store excess toys elsewhere on the site. But our pleas have fallen on deaf ears," Ms Ohlmus said. 

"We've basically been told the storage issues are our problem and we'll have to store our excess toys somewhere else because they don't have the budget.

"For obvious reasons, storing our toys in two locations just isn't practical but council just doesn't seem to care. We're being completely steamrolled."

Ms Ohlmus is said an access ladder provided for the high cupboard is a risk to families.

"We're concerned about the risk of injury for members using this ladder, not to mention the risks for adventurous children and toddlers who will no doubt try to climb it," she said.

Volunteers and user families are concerned council is disregarding the value of the toy library.

"We feel strongly about this community resource because toy libraries can play such an important role in children's development," Ms Ohlmus said.

"Play is an essential party of early childhood development and toy libraries enable children access to a far greater range of toys and learning experiences."

Council community wellbeing director, Karen Stevens, said council supports the toy library as an important service.

The renovation was designed to allow use of the space when the toy library is not operating, Ms Stevens said.

"The toy library operates for 3.5 hours per week, two of which are on a Saturday when the kindergarten and maternal and child health centre do not operate.

"We have tried to meet the needs of all potential users of this multipurpose space.

"The space now available to the toy library is wall-to-wall (4.5m) and floor to ceiling (2.85m) with a 900mm depth."

Ms Stevens said a majority of the toys should be out on loan, rather than in storage.

"Council is also investigating locations for a 12-month temporary offsite storage arrangement for larger toys, while the library considers ongoing storage options and reassesses their stock requirements," Ms Stevens said.

"The toy library also accepted an offer by council to provide funding for an iPad to support the setup of a 'virtual' toy library, where families could browse the library online and book larger toys that will need to be stored off-site."

To find out more about the toy library and become a member, email lohlmus@hotmail.com

Shock as junior league disbands

The Midlands Junior Football League has disbanded on the eve of the upcoming 2013 home and away season. The league and clubs met with representatives from WorkSafe AFL Victoria Country on Tuesday night and has accepted its recommendations. The decision was made to assist and to define better pathways and transitions for young players into senior football at their local clubs.
The league comprised of 12 teams from Castlemaine and Kyneton regions. A key recommendation was that players without senior club affiliation already, including West End, Winters Flat and Wesley Hill, send their junior players to play for Castlemaine, and North Kyneton, South Kyneton and Malmsbury to play for Kyneton. Both senior clubs will enter junior teams in the Under 10s and 12s competition in the Bendigo Junior Football League while an official Under 12 competition will be formed in the Maryborough Castlemaine District Football League.
"The acceptance of the recommendations should assist local clubs with retention of their junior players as they progress through to senior football," WorkSafe AFL Vic Country area manager, Bruce Petering, said.
The aftermath
The decision has shocked the Castlemaine and Kyneton communities. Clubs including Malmsbury, Tylden, South Kyneton, North Kyneton, West End, Winters Flat and Wesley Hill have been forced to decide between the option of joining another league or to end their club history and send their junior players to senior clubs. The reactions have been mixed as clubs work with parents to determine what is the best option for their children.
The MDJFL formed last year, combining the Castlemaine and Kyneton District junior football leagues. The competition went through some teething problems but overall, was a success. Numbers were down in several teams heading towards this season but the majority of the clubs appeared to be happy with the direction of the competition. Several clubs held a meeting two to three weeks ago to voice their concerns and this was the first sign of instability in the league. The general consensus from the board and clubs was that the competition could not run at full capacity if it were to continue this season and it would be inevitable that the league would have to disband at the end of the season. It was a tough time for club and league members to reach a compromise.
"Friends were lost and made through this but the thing that has been forgotten is having a football competition for the kids," current Midlands Junior Football League president, Paul Tobin said.
"It is a disappointing decision but now we have to work hard to have a game of footy for our kids."
Tobin said that one positive from Tuesday night's meeting was that plans were immediately put in place by AFL Vic Country to assist clubs in assessing their short-term future. The MDJFL has backed the decision made by the AFL. For more about how your club will be affected, see Tuesday's Midland Express.

Ready, set, splash!

Team Kirk: Bruce and Kirsty Kirk, with sons, James, Tim and Campbell, are in training for the upcoming Kyneton Aquathon. The Kirks are familiar faces at the aquathon each year.

 

Tie up those laces and slip on your speedos, the 2013 Kyneton Aquathon is almost upon us.

The two-stage swimming and running race will be held at the Kyneton Toyota Sports and Aquatic Centre on Sunday, March 17.

"Whether you're looking to get fit or knock out the competition, now is the perfect time to begin training for the big day," said Jon Ground, manager of the Kyneton Toyota Sports & Aquatic Centre.

Sport and fitness enthusiasts of all ages and abilities are encouraged to participate in either a mini, short or long course option.

"Don't forget that if you're a runner but not a great swimmer or vice-versa, you can enter as part of a team to tackle the swim and run sections of the race," Mr Ground said.

The mini-course is friendly to any age group, especially designed for first timers. The run is 400m with a 50m swim (two-pool lap). The short course includes a 4km run and 400m swim (16 laps). Feistier participants can enjoy the long course, consisting of an 8km run and 800m swim (32 laps).

Both short and long courses are completed in age categories. Team entries are for these courses only.

Major sponsor Kleenheat Gas is throwing in an 86-litre Waeco Cool-Ice icebox each for the male and female champions of the long course. Kyneton RSL and iSeekBlinds will also be sponsoring the event. Spot prizes will be awarded on the day.

To enter, download an application form from www.mrsc.vic.gov.au

For more information about training and participation, contact Karyn Aumont at the Kyneton Toyota Sports & Aquatic Centre on 5421 1477.

Million dollar relay! Teams walk, run and dance to fight cancer

 2013 Macedon Ranges Young Citizen of the Year Award, Indigo Nicholson, together with family members, supported her mother Laverne, who was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2011, in the first lap for Survivors and Carers at the 2013 Lancefield Macedon Ranges Relay for Life last weekend.

 The weekend ended emotionally with the traditional release of white balloons into the blue sky.

Lyn & Wendy's Walkers raised the highest amount with more than $8500.

It's official! The Lancefield/Macedon Ranges Relay For Life has raised more than $1 million for the Cancer Council Victoria.
In near perfect weather, 23 teams relayed overnight and were rewarded by the news on Sunday morning that by raising $58,000 they had pushed the event's 11-year tally to $1.04 million.
"Thanks are due to so many people who have supported the Relay since its inception," says organising committee chairmanager, Ken Wiltshire.
"The inspiration of that first group of volunteers who formed a committee to run a Relay For Life because they wanted to do something meaningful that would make a long-term contribution to the fight against cancer, a disease that had taken friends and family from them, is something that has sustained us all along the way."
Raising on average nearly $100,000 a year, teams from across the Macedon Ranges and beyond have rallied with courage and determination to support cancer research, education, advocacy and support services.
This year's event included the involvement of Sacred Heart College year nine student Indigo Nicholson, who won the 2013 Macedon Ranges Young Citizen of the Year Award.
Indigo read the Relay For Life Oath at the opening ceremony, and a winning video she made last year for the Live 4 Life Program conducted in Macedon Ranges secondary schools was screened throughout Saturday night.
Indigo was accompanied by her extended family including her tremendously spirited mother Laverne, who was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2011, and participated in the first relay lap for Survivors and Carers.
Relay For Life unites hundreds of people touched by cancer, and offers empathy and hope. Among the survivors at Lancefield Park were several people who had overcome one or more forms of cancer and others still having treatment. They were given afternoon tea with music entertainment, pampering and an opportunity to add their handprint to a commemorative banner.
One of the most inspiring efforts was made by Anthony Traynor, who ran more than 100 kilometres in recognition of his wife Melanie's successful battle with breast cancer. Melanie and the couple's son Layne lit symbolic candles as part of the evening ceremony. The family entered a team under the name of their Romsey business, You Can Fitness.
The Lyn & Wendy's Walkers team raised the highest amount with more than $8500. Romsey IGA accepted the Georgette Watkins/Spirit of the Relay Award.
Fun and outright hilarious highlights included Slip, Slop, Slap, Shade and Slide races, tug-of-war in the moonlight and an energetically contested dancing competition.
Romsey and Lancefield Community Banks donated $2000, while the Foley family of Romsey presented the Carol Ladgrove Award and $500 to The Amigos who were judged best dancers.
Eleven teams responded to an incentive prize for registering for the 2014 Relay For Life. Lyn & Wendy's Walkers scored a daily double by being picked from a ballot to win $500 to kick start their next year of fundraising.
Mr Wiltshire says that while survival rates have improved for many cancers and there have been many medical advances, there is still much to do in terms of research and the provision of support services for those with cancer.
"The Cancer Council is at the forefront of that work. By its advocacy campaigns it is arguing for the enhancement of screening programs and other innovations that will improve the fight against cancer. Knowing all this gives the teams and the event organisers the resolve to be a part of the Lancefield/Macedon Ranges Relay For Life."
Donations for 2013 can still be made to teams or the Lancefield/Macedon Ranges Relay For Life event itself at www.relayforlife.org.au. For more information visit the website or ring 1300 656 585.

US expert to speak - Driving local business, jobs and wealth

Michael Shuman is one of the world's leading authorities on local wealth creation and retention and community economic development.

At a time when local business, local economies and communities are coming under increased stress, a unique opportunity exists to hear how communities in the USA are growing in challenging times, and how new strategies might be applied to business and communities in the Macedon Ranges.
USA-based Michael Shuman is one of the world's leading authorities on local wealth creation and retention and community economic development and he will be speaking in Woodend at a breakfast seminar next Wednesday titled 'Driving Local Business, Jobs and Wealth'.
Michael is a Fellow at the Business Alliance for Local Living Economies (BALLE), Cutting Edge Capital, and the Post-Carbon Institute. He regularly undertakes economic leakage studies and assists communities to identify and establish job creation opportunities. A prolific speaker, he has lectured for more than 30 years across 47 US states and eight countries. He has recently published his third book on local economies entitled Local Dollars, Local Sense: How to Move Your Money from Wall Street to Main Street and Achieve Real Prosperity. Michael is based in Maryland in the USA.
Sponsored by Great Place Woodend and Bendigo Bank, this breakfast seminar will address key economic opportunities and issues facing local communities like:
· Understanding the deep economic need for local business success
· Generating the conditions for well-paid employment opportunities
· Creating a local economy that maintains a strong sense of place
· How community can invest in local property and infrastructure development through Community Development Corporations
· Achieving sustainable prosperity across the whole community
Participants will also hear about new initiatives in the Macedon Ranges based on new thinking to drive local economic development in Woodend.
Michael will also be joined by civic strategist and Woodend local, Larry Quick (AUS and USA).
The event will be held next Wednesday, March 13, (7.15am to 9.15am) at Zarby's, 84 High St, Woodend. Cost including a sumptuous breakfast is $45.
Register now (limited places remain) by emailing Andrew Hynson: Andrew.hynson@greatplaceaustralia.com.au, or phoning: 0419 152 293.

Safe haven - Animal shelter saved by VCAT ruling

Happy Pets Haven volunteers, Sue Little, Mandy Elder, Serena Eldridge and Shelly Culpin, with founder Trish Burke and rescued dog, Poppy, are celebrating the foundation's permit approval.

Kylie Kitchen

Pets Haven has won its battle against Macedon Ranges Council to stay at its Woodend premises.
On Monday, the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal hearing was held to dispute council's 2012 decision to refuse the shelter a retrospective planning permit.
In an unusual move, the VCAT member, Alison Slattery, spontaneously visited the premises and made an on-the-spot decision.
After hearing from both parties on Monday, Ms Slattery took up an invitation to see Pets Haven for herself.
She inspected the premises and handed down the ruling on site, instead of waiting the usual six weeks.
"I have decided to set aside the council decision to refuse the application and direct the council to issue a permit in accordance with the endorsed plans and subject to the conditions in the appendix to this order. My decision and reasons were given orally at the second part of the hearing held on site," Ms Slattery said in the order.
Pets Haven founder, Trish Burke was relieved at the prompt decision.
"Winning our VCAT hearing and being notified immediately instead of having to wait six weeks was such a surreal and emotional moment; many tears flowed," she said.
"The feeling among all of our Pets Haven members was like a major battle had been finally won and we could continue on in protecting our orphaned animals.
"Our history with Macedon Ranges Shire Council has been very stressful, our reputation was at times placed at risk and financially this has been very detrimental to our not-for-profit charity. The money and time we have spent should have gone towards our shelter animals.
"We hope that Macedon Ranges Shire Council will now finally leave us alone and respect the decision which VCAT has made.
"I would really love to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has supported Pets Haven.
"We plan on continuing to rescue and rehouse orphaned animals and to rehabilitate injured and abused animals."
Council planning and environment director, Sophie Segafredo gave a brief response to council's loss at the hearing.
"Council will continue to work with the operators of Pets Haven to ensure an appropriate level of service is provided to the community concerning the animal shelter," she said.
"VCAT's decision to support Pets Haven's proposal will be implemented following receipt of formal documentation from VCAT."
Council refused the permit application last March on a belief the shelter lacked core commercial activity for the business 1 zone.

Festival hit the right note

The Perch Creek Family Jugband delighted festival-goers in the Kyneton Town Hall.

Review: Damien Welch

Kyneton is a great town for a music festival and over the weekend of March 1-3, beautiful Kyneton put on an excellent festival performance, playing host to 40 acts during the second annual Kyneton Music Festival.
Happy crowds enjoyed sunshine, a great festival vibe and the charm of the town's unique venues. The festival organisers again did a superb job of including local pubs, halls, churches, restaurants and galleries as an integral part of this special festival experience.
The punters were an assortment of ages, from the younger crowd who turned out for the all-ages show on Friday night to a slightly older set for the more established acts on the Saturday night. Providing free entry to under-eights proved a popular move by the festival as families with young tackers wandered the venues adding to the relaxed feel of the event.
Broadening the scope from essentially a blues and roots festival to a festival of all-comers, the Friday night at the Royal George Hotel brought the dub, funk and ska to the festival. The hotel heaved with people shaking it to the infectious rhythm of The Resignators who followed the effortless groove of Woodend luminaries Brother Johnstone.
Stonefield closed the Friday night all ages line-up at the Town Hall and showcased why there is such a buzz about them with a ripping performance of soaring '70s-influenced rock. Stonefield is made up of the four teenage Findlay sisters from Darraweit Guim. The young women have a very polished sound indeed, confirming their musical growth since winning Triple J Unearthed and touring internationally.
After something of a rest, the Saturday morning was a holy musical tour of Kyneton's handsome churches featuring the Celtic folk offerings of Anam Chara, the classic blues of Reservoir Frogs and Marty and the Mudcats and the sweet jazz of Norm Gray's Quartet. Roaming around town over the afternoon, festival-goers could move between the melodies of acoustic artist Sarah Wilkinson at the Country Cob Bakery and the pastoral balladry of Alaskan/Kynetonian collaboration Dirt Hollow at the Pizza and Wine Club.
Saturday night saw the majority of punters converge on the Town Hall for the rootsier night of the festival. This reviewer was in the mood for a bit of a jig and Kyneton duly provided. A large crowd revelled in the charm of the Perch Creek Family Jugband, another bunch of overachieving siblings with infectious tunes. There was jug, there was washboard and the peculiarly moving playing of the musical saw.
The two stages at the Town Hall on the Saturday night worked a treat. Cherrywood provided two fantastic short sets of rollicking danceable tunes that saw the crowd squeeze into the front section for a town boogie. A real knees-up. On either side of those sets the larger stage saw longer, more expansive sets by the soulful alt-country of the wonderful Ramblin' Van Walker Band and the expert songwriting of Mick Thomas and the Roving Commission. Good stuff.
Those who ventured down picturesque Piper Street to the Stockroom over the weekend were treated to a great open air stage at the rear of the gallery space. A special child-friendly event, Tiny Dancers, took place at the Stockroom on Sunday morning. Many tiny dancers and a few longer-toothed interlopers rocked to the child-friendly beats and dance floor decor.
Hilary Blackman and the Afternoon Philosophers played a thoughtful and time-appropriate set to start Sunday arvo at the Stockroom, which also played host to a fantastic rare performance from the Dead Salesmen, in this incarnation a duo. The Stockroom itself was a highlight of the festival, the shop-cum-gallery yet another intriguing and welcoming space to all punters over the weekend, with food also served from the Nola Poorboy food van out the back.
The 2013 Kyneton Music Festival ended how it began, bathed in sunshine and drenched in music and more music. Though the summer festival circuit has a lot on offer across Victoria, this distinctive festival's curve should continue on its upward trend again in 2014. Assuming that the artists and venues continue to be selected so expertly, K-town can count on my attendance and my peculiar dance moves next year and beyond.

Sublime seven

SHE: Seven Harp Ensemble will perform at St Ambrose Church in Woodend on Monday.

It's not often Woodend hosts a harp concert - let alone one featuring seven harps. But the Labour Day long weekend will feature an exceptional opportunity to see and hear some of Australia's best - all at once.
The all-women SHE: Seven Harp Ensemble will perform at St Ambrose Church marking the launch of the 2013 Woodend Winter Arts Festival Program which will be available to the public from the concert onwards.
SHE brings together graduates of the Australian National University under the direction of world renowned harpist, Alice Giles and is brought to Woodend with the support of the festival and historic Mt Macedon's Duneira.
And for music students - or students curious about the harp - there will be a very special harp workshop at Duneira with Alice Giles in the morning before the concert which will include a chance to play the harp as well as learn how it works and when it was invented.
Monday's performance will be held from 2.30pm - 3.30pm in the St Ambrose Catholic Church in Templeton Street.
Cost $35 full / $25 concession. Bookings essential - online via www.duneira.com.au or at the door on the day.
Mark the festival in your diary - Queen's Birthday Weekend - June 7-10, 2013.

Smooth sailing

The stars were in action in the water last weekend.

Welcome to the first report from the Bendigo Yacht Club.
Macedon Ranges locals, Emma Fitt and Lucas Geddes, are in the club's junior squad and both sailed extremely well in the light conditions. An 'All Female' Catamaran Clinic was held at the club over the weekend and 15 ladies joined the afternoon race. The wind might have been low, but the enthusiasm of these keen cat sailors kept spirits high. Some started, and a few finished, but for those who had their first turn at skippering, the experience was memorable. On Saturday evening, the club had an amazing opportunity to meet, listen and learn from one of Australia's most dedicated sailors. Krystal Weir has represented Australia at the last two Olympics and is one of the top ranked women Laser sailors in the world. She had all in attendance enthralled by her journey from her first learning to sail programs to her two Olympic Campaigns. Members will be given the opportunity to set off flares under the watchful eyes of the local Coast Guard. This will take place on Saturday, April 20, following the final race of the summer series at approximately 4pm. Bring along old expired flares. Also bring along a barbecue tea to enjoy afterwards. The Coast Guard need to know numbers so please let the club know if you wish to take part.
Race results - 
Race three Kimbolton Series.
With light winds to contend with at Lake Eppalock last Saturday, some interesting results were seen.
Division two
1 - Phillip Mann (Mosquito)
2 - Stuart Ridge (Mosquito) 
There was quite a tussle with these two boats and there were several lead changes during the course of the race.
Division three
1 - Mark Gillies (Laser)
2 - Baz Floyd (Taser)
3 - Mick Floyd ( Laser)
Division four
1 - Anthony Wall/John Snowdon (Castle 650)
2 - Rowen Gillies (Noelex 25)
3 - Dane Boag/Carol Boag (Noelex 25)
Division five
1 - Emma Fitt (Pacer)
Division six
1 - Lucas Geddes (Pacer)

Stewart continues rapid progress

Kyneton's Chloe Stewart shows off another medal to add to the trophy cabinet on the back of her Singles victory on Saturday.

Kyneton bowler Chloe Stewart is in the thick of the action again. The young star has taken home the Under 18 Girls Singles Australian Open Singles Championship at Darebin on Saturday. Stewart took all in her stride as she defeated Queensland's Natalie Noronha in an epic final. After playing two games of nine ends, the girls finished at one-set all. They played a tie-breaker of three ends and the girls could not be separated, finishing at 3-all. Stewart played in a sudden death play-off and snuck over the line with three good bowls to win 6-3 in a very exciting game. 
The win at Darebin was crucial for Stewart as she continues to firm as one of the fastest growing talented young bowlers in the country. She has enjoyed a stellar 2012/2013 season where she finished as a semi-finalist in the Women's singles and won the Women's Triples. She has dominated at local level with wins in the Under 25 Girls singles, winner of the State singles and was Champion of Champions in the Central Highlands Bowling District. She progressed through to win at group level in the State Singles and Champion of Champions and will eye off the final round of 16 at the State finals in Bendigo next month. 
She has a massive month ahead to add to her event in Bendigo with the Under 18 Victorian Open State Singles event at Clayton. and she will represent Victoria as they take on New South Wales in Woolongong in a Test series. 
Stewart will be leading the senior team with Carla Odgers.

Finals around the corner for Woodend

(Top) Jesse 'Juicy' Waters was in cracking form last week to lead Woodend into the grand final of the One Day competition against East Sunbury. (Above) captain Max Ambler is confident that the Woodsmen are a great chance to take home the premiership. Photos: Chris Fleming

Barry Man

Firstly, on behalf of the committee, I want to say a special big thank you to Ronan Hume, Brenda McDonald, Julie Warner, Joanne McIntosh, Mel Gardner and the many others who made sure the Pink Stumps Day went off.  The $1500 in proceeds will be a welcome donation to this great cause for women.
The first day of the last home and away round for the 2012/2013 season was a mixed bag for the Woodsmen.  
SENIORS
McIntyre Cup -  The Woods, played Romsey at Romsey and got ‘em all out for 120.   Wazza Else snagged 4/18, Marcus Ciunik took 3/26.  Jamie Stembridge (Asia) continued his rich vein of form and chipped in with 2/12. This total would normally be well within our boy’s grasp, if not for the fact that we have wobbled to reach 4/37 by the end of the day.  There is still plenty of batting left in the shed, but it will be a good test of the nerves for those currently in (Gards and Digger) and those left to come in!
C Grade – The seconds played top side Digger Rest at the GeeGee. They batted first and made 259, with the two Dan’s (Eastley and Heaney) making 82 and 71 respectively, and putting on 130-odd partnership.   That’s pretty good against the best bowling team in the comp. If we can knock ‘em off their perch next week, Woodend will be a team to be feared and loathed in the coming finals.  Go get ‘em boys.
E Grade - The Terds played East Sunbury at Goonawarra and unfortunately lost the toss and were given the ball.  On a hot steamy day, East Sunbury eventually dragged along to get 5/235 on the small, quick ground.  Bomber O’Malley and Kezza Else toiled particularly well for a couple of very unfit guys, and we kept it tight all day. This is not enough I reckon for the pretty good batting line-up that we have.   This is a good opportunity for gathering intelligence too, as we play East Sunbury again next week in the first semi-final!
One Day Comp – The Oncers played Lancefield in the semi-final at the GeeGee, came back to form and caned the Lancers.   We batted first and made 7/190, with Jimmie (Soda) Hepburn making another 50, ably supported by Funnell with 39.
We then rolled the Lancers for 76, with J Waters getting 4/8 is a sizzling spell, and with Funnell and Soda getting a couple of wickets each.  Hard to pick the MoM for this one, but I guess it would have to go to Soda!   The Oncers play East Sunbury at Goonawarra next Sunday in the Big One, so I would urge all those out there who like to watch swash-buckling cricket to get along!  Go Boys!
JUNIORS
Woodend Tempest – The Under 16s played Wallan at Wallan, bowled first and got the Wallies all out for 112, with Whitey (2/19) and Briggsy (2/11) snaring a couple each, and young Jack Boyer getting 2/2!  Should be able to get those!
Under 14 East – Our Saplings played the Macedon at home batted first and made 121 off 37 overs, with young Nicholls again amongst the runs with 40.  Next closest score was 14 from Glamour Girl Jess Dugdale-Walker.   Well done Jess. Macedon then had a bat for a nervous 4 overs, and were 0/11 at stumps on first day.
Under 12 East – In a game full of wickets, our Seedlings played Romsey at Romsey.  The Romsey boys made 71 all out.  We then made, wait for it, 14/74!  Didn’t know you could bat that many, but for the kids it’s all about just getting a hit, and a lot of em did!  We lost on points!  Never mind it’s all good fun.