November 21 – December 5

All signs:

As the planets dance across the Zodiacal band in the sky, through the sign of Sagittarius we might all be feeling that extra dose of confidence and optimism that this sign can offer. With Mars still heavy in its retrograde cycle though, you could be forgiven for feeling more exhausted than exuberant. I was a bit surprised myself just how much I felt my battery flatten when Mars changed direction and am personally counting down the days until the red planet moves in a direct fashion once more. Not everyone will feel the pull of certain planets as strongly as others, it depends on your personal chart and which planets are major players for you.

The good news from the cosmos is that the jovial giant, Jupiter is about to step out of a backward motion and into a direct one at the end of the month. If certain aspects of your life have felt like they have been stalled, halted, or just plain stuck, here’s hoping that this might help you find the accelerator. Mars might be asking us to cut something out in order to move in a new direction, areas of life where we might feel tied down and it’s making it harder to focus on the direction in which we want to move towards. Read on to see how you might harness the power of the planets in your life, if you know your rising sign, start there first.

Aries:

If you have been feeling like your mental health has seen better days, hopefully those better days are here. You might also have noticed that anything to do with higher education, overseas travel or publishing have been a little bit stuck in the mud. Hopefully the ground will start to dry out beneath your feet and allow you to get some traction in these areas of your life. Your spirituality might also come into focus, with some new pearls of wisdom being offered up to help you find you flow and integrate an aspect of life that can often be left languishing. Communication with others might be causing you some headaches still with Mars retrograde. All these things combined are suggesting that now is the time to listen and digest rather than express your own thoughts. We move through season of life that offer us times to speak and times to listen.

Taurus:

Your time to take a leading role in your community or within your commune of mates is here! If taking a more active role in groups that you are involved with has been playing on your mind, this is your time to shine. Perhaps it’s something as simple as playing more of a mentorship role with a friend or it could be speaking to something more along the lines of political leadership. Working within a collective group, the assets of others or the income of your partner is highlighted over then next few weeks. Keeping in mind that you own financial picture might be a bit stalled for the rest of 2022, it might be that you are needing to spend more money than usual now. This time might also be about a lack of opportunities for earning or growing your income, it is a temporary situation that will get back on track in the early parts of next year.

Gemini:

Things within your work sphere might be starting to offer you up some juicy opportunities, perhaps in the form of new business partnerships or leadership options. This is a great time to grab these sorts of opportunities with both hands, get it while it’s hot! Even if you aren’t feeling full of drive and determination right now, this can be a great time to make strides in your work as well as in your closest relationships. Though you might be fiercely independent, romantic connections are still important to you, whether you are single or attached, they are a major focus right now. Be mindful of petty squabbles, especially if you are feeling run down, don’t be drawn into hot topics that are likely to cause you to blow a fuse.

Cancer:

Your health both physically and mentally are the topics at the fore right now, and the connection between them. If this isn’t something that you have paid much mind to this before, you are better able to gain new insights that can benefit you. Where your mental health is concerned, it might be about cutting something out that is detrimental to you. It could be a practice that you are aware of or one that you do unconsciously. Look to your daily routine and how you might improve your health and wellbeing by making changes, if you have been struggling to implement a routine that you know will be beneficial to your health, dive deeper into it from a mental health perspective, you might be surprised by what you are able to unearth. An opportunity to connect mind, body, and spiritual health together is presented to you currently.

Leo:

Gifts from others are hopefully on there way to you soon. This might not take the form of financial gifts; it could be a mentorship opportunity, or a favour owed or even a debt forgiven. Your social life might be feeling a little draining right now, you might be feeling worn out, your social butterfly wings need a rest. If time with others has been feeling cumbersome, try to be more choosey with who you agreed to spend your time with. However, hobbies and leisure activities can bring you some much needed cup filling. If you can make the time to hide away in your mancave or she shed, it might be the metaphorical hermit’s cave that you have been craving. It might look like a bowl of popcorn on the sofa with your favourite movie, or a day out doing something fun with your kids.

Virgo:

If you have been feeling the drudgery that can set in around your work life lately, my hope is that you will soon be looking to some sort of holiday time around the corner. If you are counting down the days until the Christmas break, you are not alone, but you are likely feeling the desperation to escape your desk more than any other sign! Your work situation might be feeling stuck and stalled, but your private life offers you respite. If you can scale back at the office and spend more time at home, it might go a long way to giving you a little extra boost of energy. You might also look to partnerships with others as a way to move into gear at work. Relationships are also offering up some beneficial blessings and if they too have felt stuck or in reverse, that should ease up now.

Libra:

Short trips might be on the cards for you, a little weekend away or day trip might offer you up some lovely memories that you will cherish. If you have been feeling hemmed in and unable to have that great escape that you desire, look to some sort of a “staycation” that is closer to home but likely to be just as memorable as a large-scale trip or adventure. Checking out what’s in your own backyard can be just as expansive on a personal growth level as travelling further afield. If your daily routine has been overwhelming you of late, things might start to feel more calm and less hectic. Do be mindful of boundaries, how much you take on in your daily life. If you say yes to too many things or people, it can ultimately spell burnout. Setting a hard boundary with how much you want to take on, how busy you want your daily life to can be the key.

Scorpio:

Money matters are in the spotlight, both your own and that of your partner. While you might be experiencing a boom in your personal economy, your spouse or partner might be experiencing a bust. This could also be that you are able to cut away some of the financial burdens that are imposed on you, through loan debt, insurances, or taxes. If you can delve into these areas (or pay an expert to), you might find some more cash is freed up for you. Love and romance are also in abundance for you. It might be loving times with your children or romantic love that gives you those giddy feelings. If you can throw a little creative project in the mix, the recipe for a fun and fabulous few weeks is practically fool-proof, so get busy baking!

Sagittarius:

This can be a great time to reinvent yourself or devote some time to a little personal development, discovering who you are right now. The balancing act between being your truest self and integrating into your closest relationship is being brought into focus as well. Your sense of self and desire for independence is strong, you are certain of who you are and where you are going. If you are attached to another, this might be a tense time, when you are trying to integrate this new version of yourself into an existing situation. If things are feeling tense, fear not, it will iron out in the new year. Focusing on your home and family can be a good thing right now, something that feels easier to you. This can be a great time to finish up some renovations or improvements around the house or even to upgrade to a better home than the one you are currently in. 

Capricorn:

This is the time of year when you want to retreat and spend a little time on your own, the company of others might feel a little too taxing. It’s the one time of the year when our personal solar panels are in need of some charging and the only way to top them up is to take a little time out. Your daily routine might need a good culling, cutting back to allow for more of a focus on your mental health. It’s a good time to check in with yourself before the silly season comes into full swing, take some time to reflect on where you’re at and where you’d like to go next. Does your daily routine support this? If your physical health has been giving you troubles, either from overexerting yourself or under, remember to be kind to yourself regardless. This might be a good time to be gentle and not try to push so hard for changes, find a way to float and flow for duration of this year.

Aquarius:

Fun times out on the town with friends are in the forecast for you. Your social life might be brimming and now’s the time to enjoy it, say yes to all the invites and attend all the parties. This is a time to shine within your social circle and community groups. You come across more charming and cleaver than usual. Your love life might be hitting the skids a little, if things are feeling a bit stuck and slow, try not to force the situation. There will be plenty of time for passionate encounters in the new year. If your life is in a different phase, this could be a time when your kids are testing your patience, hang in there. Meanwhile, your financial picture is coming up roses, more opportunities to earn and grow what you’ve got. This is the time to jump at these opportunities as they won’t last for long.

Pisces:

While the outside world might view you as jovial and merry, things on the home front with your family might be a little more tense. There are more opportunities for conflict, you might be feeling like you are easily annoyed with what’s happening at home. If you can focus on your work, there is a flattering light offering you some respite from the dramas that might be going on in your private life. Making deals and advancing your career is on the cards, but keep in mind that you make your own luck, and nothing is going to just land in your lap, you need to be an active participant and chase down what you’re after. The tension at home could be tied into how much of your focus is on your work, be remember that this is only temporary, and things will settle down in the new year and hopefully feel a little less scratchy.   

Anyone for tennis?

Daylesford Lawn Tennis Club is running Welcome Week starting Thursday 24th November 2022. We welcome any new players, young and not so young, beginners and people who haven’t played for yonks. There is something for everyone with free tennis events running all week on Daylesford’s beautifully maintained grass courts. Come down and give tennis a go! It is a week of free smashing good fun!

What’s on………

Please note dates are subject to weather and any changes will be posted on the Daylesford Lawn Tennis Club’s website and facebook page.

Thursday 24 November 6.00pm

Twilight comp starts. New players welcome. For experienced players interested in regular Thursday night competition. For more information contact Nigel on 0435 690 692

​Friday 25 November 5.30pm

Free coaching session with Brian Carr, Daylesford’s coach. For bookings email: trish.kevin@hotmail.com

Saturday 26 November 9.00am

First day of Junior tennis for beginners and experienced players 5 to 18 years. For more information contact Steph on stephiebarron@yahoo.com
Saturday 26 November 1.00pm

Senior competition tennis starts at 1pm – all new players and exisiting members welcome. For more information contact gregmalcher@bigpond.com

Sunday 27 November 11.00am

Wear Your Whites – social tennis. Relaxed social tennis for adults that have played a bit. Prize for the the best dressed. For more information contact haigbecker@gmail.com

Monday 28 November 6.00pm

Get Your Racquet On! Social tennis for adult beginners and people who haven’t hit for ages. For more information contact Dianne on vanbaalend@gmail.com

Tuesday 29 November 6.00pm

Carousel social tennis. A social hit for people who have played a bit.For more information contact haigbecker@gmail.com

​Wednesday 30 November all day

Courts are available for a free hit. BYO racquets and balls.

Please note: Any changes due to weather will be posted on our website and Facebook page

Horoscopes November 7^th to 21^st

All Signs:

The second eclipse, a lunar eclipse is upon us, bringing this current “eclipse season” to a close. I hope that you have found yourself turning life’s corners to find something new and exciting waiting for you. The lunar eclipse is taking place in the sign of Taurus, which might see a shift for us around security, comfort and possibly where or how we are getting our food (all things that Taurus speaks to). This eclipse is also taking place next to the planet Uranus which will be lending some of its energy to it, Uranus is a planet associated with innovation and curiosity. We might be better able to think outside of the square and look to more unconventional means of obtaining those Taurean topics. This planet also has a natural affinity with instability, unpredictability, and chaos, which are all eclipse type attributes as well, amplifying our feelings of unsettled churning that we might be feeling right now, like the ground beneath our feet isn’t quite as solid as we thought.

The next two weeks sees the planets starting to shift out of Scorpio and into the sign of Sagittarius, with Venus and Mercury moving first, followed by the Sun. While Scorpio season can leave us all contemplating our deepest and darkest thoughts, Sagittarius season can usher in a need for freedom, adventure, action, and movement that uplifts us. It can be a time when we are all the most extra versions of ourselves, a little over the top but this confidence can also help us to step outside of our comfort zones and stretch.

Jupiter, the most beneficial planet in astrology has moved back into its home sign of Pisces for a quick visit. This will hopefully bring us all some luck and blessings just in time for Christmas, as that’s how long Jupiter will be there before moving into the sign of Aries once more. Jupiter kicked off 2022 in Pisces, so we might see a return or continuation of what topics were golden in your life at that time. This is the last little hit of Jupiter in Pisces until 2033 so take advantage of it! Read on to see how you might harness the power of the planets in your life, if you know your rising sign, start there first.

Aries:

Financial matters might be shaken up, they might be feeling a bit unstable, but you could be offered up some new ways to earn money. You could be feeling a need for financial freedom, or that you need to move your spending habits in a new direction. Look closely at an unorthodox solution, it might be just what you need to move forwards. Great joy can be found in the arts at this time, enjoyment of new cultures, music and literature that takes you on a journey can delight. You might be keen to delve deeper into spiritual matters, question how you look at the bigger picture topics in your life. A reminder that communications with others might slow off the mark right now, your daily commute might also be offering up more stress than usual.

Taurus:

You might be reaching a turning point in your life around how your view yourself, or what direction you would like to move towards. The path to your personal happiness might lead you in a different direction than you thought. If you can go with the flow and follow your intuition, you might be pleasantly surprised with the outcome. This is a good time to explore new friendships or see a change or deepening with the friends that you have now. Money matters might be slow right now, even feeling like you’re moving backwards, this trend is only temporary. Look to savings where insurance and debts are concerned, there might be a better deal and you are primed to nab it right now.

Gemini:

You might be feeling a drop in your energy levels and motivation now, I urge you to keep plodding along at work. You can make some major inroads in your career, perhaps even achieve some type of accolade that you have been chasing. This is your last chance to enjoy a very flattering light being cast upon your work life for the next ten years, so use it well. Love and relationships are also coming up, if you are in a committed relationship right now, take some time with your partner to deepen your bond not just in a physical way but also on a mental level though deep conversation. If you haven’t found your life partner in crime, this might be a time when you do, perhaps even through a work situation. This can also be a great time take on a business partnership, it might be the boost to your career that you have been working towards this year.

Cancer:

If you are lucky enough to have a valid passport and some money to burn, I would suggest that you take that overseas trip you have been lusting after. If like most of us, this is not in your purview, find joy in new cultures, higher education, publishing opportunities, or spiritual growth. If you feel like your mental health has taken a little turn, these things can help mitigate and bring some joy back to you. This is also a great time to scrutinize your daily routine or schedule, looking to implement more balance to create healthier habits. You might be keen to give the cupboards a tidy up and your organization skills are on pointe right now. If you’ve got some pre-Christmas health goals, this is also a time to take action and get a plan together so that you can glide into the silly season as the best version of yourself. Friendships or community groups that you are a part of might be at a tipping point, try not to hold on to anyone too tightly, friendships ebb and flow and have their seasons, be prepared to walk away from a situation that no longer serves you.

Leo:

Things at work might be feeling a bit unsettled or unsteady right now, something might be in the works behind the scenes (or right in front of you) that will create some major shake ups. It might be a situation that you are in control of, creating change on your own terms or it might be out of your hands, and you are at its mercy. You might find yourself in a situation that sees some money headed your way, perhaps through inheritance, income tax return or it could be that your spouse gets a raise you benefit from that. It could be a situation where you take on a large debt, but for something that benefits you, like a new home or car. Be mindful of the strings. Social burnout might also be an experience that you are living through, if you’ve been the social butterfly lately, take a step back and have some alone time if you need it, don’t be afraid to turn down invitations, there will be plenty of time to socialize later.

Virgo:

This eclipse might see you experience a crisis of faith, you might start to question your spiritual direction and perhaps take a sharp turn and go a different way. It might feel like you are ready to take on a spiritual quest and find answers to your burning questions. On a more tangible not, you want to feather your nest and make things at home feel more organized and beautiful. On the relationship front, this could be a time when new possibilities abound, perhaps too many. If you are in a committed relationship, you might find yourself desperately seeking a little freedom. Absence does make the heart grow fonder, if you need a little space, don’t be afraid to take it, if it’s a relationship with a solid foundation, it’ll keep. Your career might be feeling a little stalled now, rest assured that you will find the accelerator in the new year.

Libra:

You are blessed with the gift of eloquent communication for the next few weeks, with a sharp mind and clever articulation you can achieve almost anything. If you’ve had a writing project simmering away on the stove, this might be the time to turn up the heat and make it boil. But know that any sort of publishing is likely to fizzle away until the new year. If you can get the work done, tuck it away for a more auspicious new year when things are more likely to go your way. If you’ve been feeling like your daily life is too small or holding you back, this is a time when you are desperate to break free of any rut you’ve been stuck in. Be mindful of overindulgences over the next couple of months, either too strict or too healthy, striving for balance can be what’s best at this time to give you a feeling a good health.  

Scorpio:

The time when Venus brings blessings to your bank account is finally here, hopefully offering you a boost to your earning potential, assets, or valuables and giving you the ability and the clarity to make your financial situation rosier. The eclipse taking place might be influencing your closet relationships, if you’re in one, it might be feeling like it isn’t working any longer or that it’s holding you back. If you have a solid foundation, this little blip will pass, but if you haven’t been happy then this might spell the end. If you are not in a committed relationship, this could be a time when you meet your person, or a path is laid that will lead to that someone special. Romantic times abound from now until Christmas, you might find that you are almost overwhelmed with options, who wouldn’t love that? If you are more settled in your life, this can be a time when you have lovely experiences with the children in your life, arty creativity, hobbies, and sports can offer up the perfect opportunities to have some fun.

Sagittarius:

Shake ups to your daily routine and possibly your health might have you feeling like you are on unstable footing right now. This can usher in a time when you are able to turn a corning and make some major changes if you need to. On a more positive note, you are oozing with charm right now, with a sharp mind and a keen eye, the perception of others is quite favourable. If life has felt like a bit of a slog lately, this might be the lifting of the fog that you have been desperately seeking. You will feel a shift from the hermit in the cave to the star at centre stage, which is much more conducive to your Sagittarius nature. If you have been enjoying a passionate time with your significant other, you might feel as though someone has let the air out of your sails. Fear not, it’s only temporary. If you are unattached, this might be a time when your relationship prospects slow down, it’s just for a little while.

Capricorn:

New editions to your family could soon be on their way with the eclipse offering possibilities of pregnancy that might come as a surprise! Take precautions if this is not what you want on your agenda right now! If you have been thinking about making a creative endeavour more centre stage, this might when you want to birth that idea out into the world. You are bursting with big ideas and thoughts right now, keep a notebook handy to jot them all down. Plenty of little trips might be on the cards within your own country until Christmas. This might also be a time when you have some adventures with your sibling(s), or you can mend fences with them if they need some attention. Getting out in your community and with friends can feel like a breath of fresh air to what might be feeling like a trudge through your everyday life.

Aquarius:

The luckiest of planetary charms has re-entered the arena of all matters financial for you. If you experienced a boost to your income earlier in the year, that story is back and ready for you to grab it with both hands. You won’t get this kind of blessing again until 2033, so make the most of it until Christmas this year. Things on the home front might be feeling a little unsteady, changes are a foot either within your family unit or with your home itself. If these things are bringing you stress, take comfort in your friends right now especially. They will be able to offer you clever insights and a soft place to land if you need it. A flattering light is beaming down on you at work, if things at home feel tough, you can always focus on your career path to mitigate.

Pisces:

This might be a time when you are looking to fill in some gaps in your education, renovate your resumé or chase a dream that you have be harbouring since you were a kid. You might be feeling like you are ready to move in an entirely new direction, mentally or physically, you might be ready to move to a new neighbourhood. You have the ability to make your own luck until Christmas time, if you noticed that life felt like it had a nice flow to it earlier this year, those themes will be repeated now. You’ve got a sharp mind and plenty of charm at work these days to help propel you forward, be prepared for the spotlight to shine on you soon and opportunities to step up at work might be coming your way. People will perceive you as jovial and fun-loving, up for a good time, all things point to fabulous networking opportunities.

The Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival was recently announced as a finalist in the prestigious Victorian Tourism Awards for 2022.
The awards showcase the state’s leaders in tourism excellence and acknowledge outstanding innovation, industry professionalism and collaboration. The festival was launched in 2021 as an initiative of the Macedon Ranges Visitor Economy Strategy. In 2022, the festival delivered approximately 1.6 million to the visitor economy.
Council’s Mayor, Cr Jennifer Anderson, was thrilled to see the Autumn Festival nominated as a finalist in the Victorian Tourism Awards.
“It’s exciting to see the Autumn Festival acknowledged as a finalist in the awards, and a must-do activity on Victoria’s event calendar. It’s a major event for our region and draws visitors from far and wide.”
“The Macedon Ranges is just beautiful during autumn and the festival provides a real buzz for the community and local businesses. It’s an exciting time of year to be part of the shire,” she said.
Businesses, community groups and creatives are being encouraged to join the hype and submit their autumn themed creation by Friday 9 December to be part of the 2023 festival program.
The festival will take place throughout April across nine historic villages and provides a platform to showcase the region’s makers, producers, artisans and attractions.
Visitors are inspired to explore and discover the beauty of autumn in the Macedon Ranges through curated trails and itineraries, markets, workshops and events.
New ‘Tipple Trail’ itineraries will encourage visitors to discover country pubs, breweries, distillery and cellar doors in the region, providing further opportunities for businesses to get involved.
Council will also facilitate three Welcome to Country events, bring back The Gardeners puppets to our farmers markets, and curate autumn-inspired driving itineraries and competitions, all to be featured on a dedicated Autumn Festival website.
Back by popular demand will be the Autumn Pie & Tart Trail, which was a feature of the 2022 program.
“The Autumn Festival is a great opportunity for businesses to showcase their seasonal produce and creations. We are asking everyone to get on board by submitting an autumn-themed creation and decorating their shopfronts throughout April to promote their involvement in the festival,” said Mayor Cr Anderson.

New uniforms, equipment and training opportunities are in play for more than 1,000 Victorian grassroots sport and recreation clubs, backed by new funding from the state government.

Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence today announced the latest recipients sharing in more than $1.5 million from the Labor Government’s Sporting Club Grants Program.

Since 2014, the Program has injected more than $13.8 million into clubs across Victoria.

One of the grant recipients is Wantirna South Football Club, which is receiving $1,000 to purchase new uniforms and equipment for its first women’s team.

The Program provides up to $1,000 for uniforms and participation equipment, up to $5,000 for training coaches, officials and volunteers, and up to $5,000 to improve club operational effectiveness.

For more information on the grants and a full list of recipients sport.vic.gov.au.

Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence: Community sport is the lifeblood of Victorian communities. That’s why we’re backing more clubs with help to purchase uniforms and equipment and investing in their future through training and development.”

“Every parent wants to see their kids active and engaged – local sporting clubs are the heart of so many communities.”

MORE than 80 concerned residents packed St Martin’s Chapel in Blackwood to discuss recent gold mining activity and salvage logging in the surrounding Wombat State Forest.
Speakers including Dave Stephens, a local forest campaigner for more than 20
years, Gayle Osborne, president of Wombat Forestcare, and members of No Wombat
Gold discussed the potentially devastating effects of extractive industries operating in
the area and how residents could act to prevent further destruction of the forest.
Spokesperson Sophie Guerin said since exploratory gold drilling was unexpectedly
heard coming from near Shaws Lake in June 2020, the issue had become one of great
concern to many residents. Since then, another exploratory mining license had been
granted and was in operation, while a prospecting license and another exploratory
license are currently being reviewed by Earth Resources, she said.
“In June 2022 residents learned of another threat to the forest when
approximately two acres of trees and vegetation in nearby Babbington Hill were
found cleared for machinery and a log landing by VicForests.
“This area is just one of 175 salvage coupes in the Wombat that are threatened by
operations as part of VicForests’ controversial salvage Timber Utilisation Plan.
“In recent weeks Blackwood and Barrys Reef residents have received letters stating
that similar operations would begin in coupes surrounding the towns from October.
“Expert ecologists like David Lindenmayer have expressed concern that the
salvage logging operation will increase the likelihood and severity of bushfires, despite
claims from VicForests that this is one of the main reasons for the operation.”
Ms Guerin said both logging and mining had the potential to impact the town’s
water supply, but as the area also sits in the headwaters of the Lerderderg River, these
impacts could potentially affect residents all the way to Melton.
Other potential impacts included noise pollution, traffic and road destruction
from large trucks and negative impacts on tourism and local business, she said.
“Clearing bushland also has potentially devastating effects on local flora, fauna
and fungi including many threatened and endangered species such as the greater
glider and the mountain skink.”
Ms Guerin said in June this year the Victorian Government tabled its response to
the Victorian Environmental Assessment Council’s Central West investigation report.
“A new Wombat-Lerderderg National Park and a number of regional parks were
to be created, but since then the government has failed to legislate the promised park.
“In their response to the parliament, the Victorian Government stated that the
Wombat-Lerderderg National Park would be used in accordance with the general
recommendations for national parks including to ‘permanently protect the natural
environment and natural biodiversity along with underlying ecological structure and
supporting environmental processes’.
“It seems inconceivable, that after recognising the conservation values of the
forest, the government would allow environmentally damaging extractive operations.”
“A unanimous motion was passed to write to the Macedon state Labor MP MaryAnne Thomas to request that the Premier and Cabinet impose a moratorium on all
licenses, permits and works for all commercial log removal and mining activities in
the Wombat Forest until the planned legislation is proclaimed.”
Minister Thomas told The Local that all forestry and mineral exploration activities
were done under strict regulations.”
“Storm recovery work in the Wombat State Forest and elsewhere involves cleaning
up windthrown trees to reduce fuel loads and the fire risk to communities over the
coming years. Importantly, the work in the Wombat State Forest and surrounding
areas to restore Country is a partnership between traditional land owners, the Dja Dja
Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation, and VicForests.”
“This is not salvage logging, it is removing fallen trees and getting access to
improve forest health and resilience, based on cultural practices and backed up by
scientific research that supports active management of our forests.”
Words: Donna Kelly | Image: Contributed

Hepburn Shire Council Mayor Cr Tim Drylie, who represents Creswick Ward, the most affected area, said the community, council and agencies had come together in an “amazing effort” in response to the October floods.
“Extreme weather events or natural disasters are integrally messy and stressful affairs and it takes
a lot of effort to try to get it right. And it doesn’t always happen the way we think it’s going to
happen.
“But there was improvisation on our part in terms of getting the sandbagging happening and we
had local businesses chip in and buy a couple of loads of sand which was fantastic and
there were heaps of people volunteering to fill bags – taking days off work.
“Then there were the community groups, like the football club, coming onboard
en masse to put sandbags in place for vulnerable residents and then our local CFA
coming to the party and pumping water when required for many hours to try to
avoid flooding along the stretch of houses that border the creek.”
Cr Drylie said in terms of council operations there were many staff working both
in the background and on the front line, working to assess roads, putting out signage
and opening up relief centres in Creswick, “and just monitoring things as they
unfolded”.
“Obviously it was quite a volatile situation and a changing environment, so we
were working to make sure the community was safe. Communications were going
out as required and it was just a phenomenal effort. I think we avoided the worst of
it and some of that was due to chance and some of it was due to good planning and
response.”
Cr Drylie said with the recent flooding, the January storms in Creswick and the
Trentham and wider district storms in June last year, people’s resilience was being
tested.
“These really compound the situation in terms of some of the psychological
trauma and stress that is associated with these events and it is really unfortunate in
many ways that this event has happened and that we are looking at probably the next
six weeks being predicted for ongoing weather events.
“As a community we need to adapt and be better prepared for these events. They
are becoming more extreme and more frequent so there is a response where both the
community and council and agencies are aware of what is required to be more ready. I
think that in our community we saw this time a preparedness to get on the ground.”
Cr Drylie said there was no question the recent weather events were climate
change related and that was widely accepted.
“It is probably catching up with us a lot sooner than we expected in many ways
and we need to get on the front foot a bit more with it both in terms of adapting to
current circumstances but also getting on with reducing emissions and moving to a
renewables economy and a circular economy.”
*Lifeline delivers crisis support and suicide prevention services, 24/7 on 13 11 14.
*Beyond Blue provides 24/7 advice and support on 1300 22 4636.
Words: Donna Kelly

IT WAS probably a bit of a “pinch me” moment.  Liz Liddle had been running a soap making/bath products business for about five years when she saw a callout for Uncovered at the Sydney Opera House.

In its third year, Uncovered is a platform for Australian artists, makers, creatives and artisans to showcase their artistic excellence at the Opera House’s on-site and online retail shop. The Creswick businessperson, who runs Mwerre, saw the opportunity, applied and was accepted – as were just two other creatives.

Only three businesses are selected each year. “I saw it on Facebook, as you do, and thought it was a really good opportunity to get into a major cultural institution. Having this accessible program really gives people a bit of a foothold and builds awareness of your brand, it’s a fast track.” But Liz, who has a small factory at Eganstown, realises that success also comes down to customers – and they are loving what she does.

“It is still pretty early days, we only recently launched, but the feedback I am receiving is that of the giftboxes and the bar soaps I produce, it is the giftboxes which are selling really well and to international tourists.

“I think that is because they are well packaged so people can travel with them where the bar soaps are fairly naked in their packaging. After the pandemic, I really didn’t think international visitors would be the ones that would be buying most of my products.”

Liz is also busy thinking about production, with the lead-up to Christmas for her wholesalers, and increased demand from Sydney. Like all small business owners who start because of a passion, she is now working out how to continue to make her handmade products in a sustainable way.

She is also working on product design. “I am looking at how I can be fairly sustainable but also meet the needs of the product. For example I originally started with a cloth ribbon on my packages but now I have moved to paper because it is recyclable. It is little things like that where you discover new and better ways of doing things.”

Liz said she believes Mwerre was chosen over other businesses for Uncovered because it uses high quality, indigenous ingredients to produce soap and skin products, honouring the traditions of the Arrernte people – a First Nations language group from Central Australia – to protect, adorn and heal skin. Mwerre is a 100 per cent certified Aboriginal-owned business. There were also no competing products for sale, another factor in Mwerre being chosen, Liz says.

As for how she got started in her business, that is “a long story”. “About 20 years ago I was working in the spa industry in Daylesford and I had this idea for clay products. But at that time I was much younger, didn’t have any money and just didn’t have the skills or resources to think about how to make my own brand and get into manufacturing. All that stuff.

“So, fast forward 20 years and the landscape has changed quite a bit with social media and support for small business. It is much easier to get into developing a brand and the idea came up again. But, on the other side of things I wanted to be a baker. I love baking. I started thinking about that as well and was making all this stuff and testing potential things I could sell – and we just ended up eating it all. Which wasn’t good for the waistline.

“I then discovered that soap making was the same as baking. The same process, same technical things, mixing ingredients, cooking it and pouring it into a mould. I thought, that is a really good idea, I can fulfill my need for baking and I don’t eat it.”

Until the Sydney opportunity came long, Mwerre was mostly sold in Melbourne with a few outlets in Bendigo and Creswick. It’s also online at www.mwerre.com.au  and as Liz says, it’s now “onwards and upwards” along with a trip next year to check out her new “store”.

Sydney Opera House Tours, Retail and Projects general manager Nicky Brandon said those chosen for Uncovered had to have similar values to the Opera House including creativity, excellence, collaboration, accountability and safety.

“Uncovered was basically created as a way for us to showcase up and coming Australian creatives from across the country. We took the opportunity to create a program that could support smaller businesses and artists just starting out or more established, and showcase what they have on offer within our doors.”

Nicky said Liz’s application was inspiring with its links to health using indigenous clay and minerals from the land. “That is something we are passionate about here, how we connect back to country. Her products really engaged with us, they are beautiful and smell absolutely divine and now our entire store smells amazing. We were so excited to connect with Liz.”

Nicky said she came up with the idea of Uncovered in 2017 and it had been fantastic to see the first cohort come through in 2020. “We really want to embed what we do with another round every year and build up an alumni. We choose three artists each year and all nine are still in the store. And it is fantastic to be promoting them not just locally but also internationally, seeing people take Australian products, like Liz’s, home with them.”

Links: www.mwerre.com.au | www.sydneyoperahouseshop.com

Words: Donna Kelly | Images: Contributed

SO, the Big Rainbow is coming to Daylesford.
I kinda thought we would win. I mean the other towns were a little bit,
well, not really on my gaydar. But then, maybe they are LGBTIQA+.
I have been to Katherine in the Northern Territory and I can’t say it glittered. Not
at the time anyway. Broome in Western Australia has an awesome outdoor cinema
and amazing sunsets, but not really any rainbows as such. Hay in New South Wales?
Never been there, so not sure.
Anyway, we have won, although if you check out the Big Rainbow Project at
www.bigrainbowproject.com.au, there’s nothing about Daylesford winning. Still just
lists the four finalists and tells people to stay tuned. Strange.
The Big Rainbow is a Tinder initiative, that’s a dating website. It was launched at
a hackathon in Hatch Labs in 2012 and is the world’s most popular app for meeting
new people. It’s also pretty widely thought of as a website where you can hook up for
casual sex. I don’t know, I have been married a very long time and don’t know about
sex any more.
Anyway, I never thought I would be writing about Hepburn Shire Council and
Tinder in the same sentence. But there you go. (I do know some people have talked
about the council and another word for sex in relation to The Rex. Bit rude.)
Anyway, about 16,000 people around Australia voted, with most for the Big
Rainbow to be placed in Daylesford. The council are saying that was akin to public
consultation. Oddly, there was no way to say you didn’t want the Big Rainbow. In
reply to a query from myself, a council spokesperson said if someone didn’t want the
Big Rainbow in Daylesford, they just had to vote for another town. I asked what if
they didn’t want to foist it onto any town. No answer. Hmmm.
So, now that we have all decided we want the Big Rainbow here, we have to
decide where it goes. There are lots of ideas on Facebook. Someone said on top of The
Rex because it needs all the good luck possible. Someone said to link the BP servo
with the units opposite. They need luck too. Someone else said upside down at the
Skate Park. That’s quite smart. Someone else said Creswick. That’s just dumb.
Despite it just being announced on Wednesday, the council has already chosen
four possible spots. (I must have missed that bit of public consultation.) So we can
now choose, through the council’s Participate Hepburn website, to have it at Lake
Daylesford, the Skate Park, Victoria Park or the Lost Children’s Reserve. Not the one
at Musk, the one on the road to Ballarat opposite the Mill Markets.
They are apparently the best spots because, being council-owned, they don’t need
planning permits. And those permits can be pesky things sometimes. Damn you, The
Rex, costing more than $1 million to renovate.
But I am not sure. Lake Daylesford is a pristine, natural area and if you got rid of
the geese because they are not indigenous to the region, surely a big rainbow sculpture
is not quite right. The Skate Park doesn’t have a lot of parking and is pretty regularly
vandalised from what I hear. Victoria Park? Perfect for ChillOut but a little isolated
the rest of the year. Lost Children’s Reserve? Surely that is a monument for the three
young children who died who we apparently can never forget. (No hate mail please.)
But never fear. Mayor Drylie said the council would never choose not to listen to
its ratepayers and those four sites are not the only ones on the table, although they
are the only ones listed at Participate Hepburn. So keep those ideas coming. Maybe
it needs to be on wheels and move around the region? Who says big things have to be
stationary? It could be Australia’s first mobile big thing. Just sayin’…

LIKE all hospitality businesses, it has been a bit of a rocky road for the crew at the Guildford Family Hotel, aka The Guilly.

But owners Megan and Tom have got all their ducks in a row now with a great team working on the floor and in the kitchen.

We popped in recently for a Saturday lunch with mates John and Jane – and before they arrived Megan gave us a quick tour of the newly renovated dining room. It’s stunning. High ceilings with great muted colours on the walls which are decorated with some fabulous pieces of musical art by local artist Nick Carpenter.

There’s also a lovely beer garden out the back with plenty of umbrellas for those sunny days – well, those sunny days we are longing for.

But our choice is always the bar and The Guilly has a really good bar. Perfect for whiling away an hour or so with a meal or just a drink. And Megan and Tom are the perfect hosts, chatting in between serving up drinks and welcoming patrons.

Entrees Once we settled in with wines for Jane and me, and beers for the boys, we started by sharing the yum cha ($16) with a selection of dumplings, spring rolls and gyozas with a dipping sauce. I thought about adding the pea, mint and halloumi fritters ($16) but the mains here are always generous so decided to hold off.

Next time. Kyle and I met Megan way back when, when she was working at another pub in Daylesford. She was always friendly and professional, with a ready smile for everyone. And she has brought all that and more to The Guilly along with her partner Tom, who is looking at getting the live music back up and running, along with a courtesy bus for Daylesford visitors. But back to the food.

Mains I chose the spinach and ricotta lasagne ($28) with a cheesy bechamel, napoli sauce, chips and salad – I told you they were generous. This is a really nice vegie dish with plenty of flavour and texture. And filling!

Kyle went for the chicken cordon bleu ($30) from the specials’ list – recommended by Tom. A ham and cheese stuffed, crumbed chicken breast with scallop potatoes, carrots, beans and broccoli with a creamy dijon sauce. Another winner with its crunchy, outer coating, perfectly cooked chicken and oozing with ham and cheese goodness.

But why are the French all thin? Jane chose the pub classic of fish and chips ($28) – two pieces of beer battered fish with chips and salad, which you can swap with buttered vegies. It got two thumbs up and a double “yummy”. John opted for the lemon pepper calamari, an entree size serve, but as a “calamari lover” declared it some of the best he has enjoyed. The main ($28) comes with chips and a salad.

Desserts & kids Now we didn’t do dessert, already full, but there is a really tempting chocolate pudding with choc sauce and cream or if you want to go old school, the bread and butter pudding. (Both $14.) There are also choices for kids ($13 and under) including napoli pasta, fish and chips, nuggets and chips, and chicken parma and chips.

Something else… Here’s one for the diary. The Guilly is hosting the annual Yabby Race Day on Tuesday, November 1. Yes, Melbourne Cup Day. The tradition has been going for many years and Megan and Tom are happy to keep the fun happening. So look forward to yabby races, fashions on the field, chicken and bubbles, and all the fun of the fair.

Deets All below. And bookings are always a good idea. A great country pub which is bound to become one of your favourite destinations.

Words: Donna Kelly | Images: Kyle Barnes

Community groups across the state will save money on their energy bills and help drive down emissions thanks to the state government.

Minister for Energy Lily D’Ambrosio has announced that 88 community groups across the state will receive grants to upgrade or install solar and renewable energy batteries to improve the energy efficiency of their facilities saving almost $900,000 on annual energy bills.

The government has invested $1.8 million through the second round of the Community Climate Change and Energy Action (CCCEA) program, which helps community groups reduce their energy costs while slashing greenhouse gas emissions.

The upgrades include converting to solar electricity with battery storage, switching to more efficient LED lighting, upgrading older air conditioning units or installing efficient electric hot water systems. These sustainable changes are outside the budgets of many Victorian community groups.

Through the program, a total of $3 million will be invested to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency for community groups – cutting bills by $1.2 million a year and saving over 4400 tonnes of greenhouse gases annually.

In 2021, the CCCEA program funded more than $1.16 million for community organisations to make energy upgrades or conduct an energy audit. This has already delivered $300,000 of annual savings.

For more information and a list of recipients, visit www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/community-climate-change-and-energy-action-funded-projects.

Minister for Energy Lily D’Ambrosio: “We’re giving community groups like kindergartens, sports clubs and cultural groups the opportunity to reduce their energy costs by upgrading their facilities with simple switches which save money and slash emissions.”

“We’re helping community groups reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by over 4,400 tonnes per year — bringing us closer to our goal of reducing Victoria’s emissions by 50 per cent by 2030.”  

DAYLESFORD has been named the home of The Big Rainbow, Australia’s first “big” landmark dedicated to the celebration of regional LGBTIQA+ pride and inclusion.
Daylesford was chosen after 16,000 public votes were cast ahead of fellow shortlisted towns Broome (WA), Hay (NSW) and Katherine (NT).
The Big Rainbow project is an initiative by online dating website Tinder Australia.
Hepburn Shire Mayor Cr Tim Drylie said it was brilliant to see The Big Rainbow, which is 12 metres wide and six metres high, coming to a town that was considered to be the rainbow capital of regional Australia.
“Daylesford is the home of the ChillOut Festival, the longest running regional LGBTIQA+ festival in Australia, and home to many rainbow families. Council will soon initiate a period of community engagement to tap into the community’s local knowledge and perspectives about the best suited location for the Big Rainbow which will celebrate our vibrant and inclusive community.
“We are so grateful for the support that people across the country have shown us in voting for Daylesford to be the home of The Big Rainbow. We have a long history of supporting our LGBTIQA+ community and visitors to our town, and we hope that The Big Rainbow will be an example of what it means to show love and support to everyone.”
Hepburn Shire CEO Bradley Thomas said that while the rainbow was a symbol of inclusion, he envisaged it also being a tourism drawcard for Daylesford.
“We see people seeking out the Big Pineapple in Queensland and the Big Merino in New South Wales, we believe The Big Rainbow will continue to add to our visitor experience in the beautiful Daylesford and Hepburn Shire.”
Tinder Australia director Kirsten Hardeman said the company was delighted that so many people took part in the search for The Big Rainbow’s new home and that Daylesford had been named as the fitting regional home.
“This impressive landmark will live in the town as a beacon for diversity, inclusion and self-expression for the regional LGBTIQA+ community. We’re really looking forward to working closely with the passionate people of Daylesford to bring The Big Rainbow home over the coming months.”
Council will now be working with Tinder on the logistics of installing The Big Rainbow. As part of the Big Rainbow Project, Tinder has also pledged to donate $100,000 to support regional organisations which deliver services to LGBTIQA+ people across Australia.

Where do you think the Big Rainbow should be placed? Email donna@tlnews.com.au

All signs:

Mercury retrograde is finishing up around in the first week of October, indicating that we can breathe a sigh of relief that those pesky miscommunications and bloopers will hopefully now be less frequent. I’ve noticed that this retrograde in particular has seen me feeling as though I am speaking a different language and unable to glean any sort of answers despite feeling certain I was asking straight forward and direct questions. I will be so grateful to see the back end of this one! Mercury has shifted backwards into it’s favoured sign of Virgo, giving us all a second chance to clean up our diets, homes or habits that perhaps didn’t go to plan a few weeks ago. Anything that you started during the retrograde cycle might need to be revisited or done over and what a great time to do it, while Virgo is giving us all that keen eye for the details once again. We might also find that if life has felt like it’s taking place under water, we might now surface and benefit from a sharpening of our minds, as well as attention spans.

Fair Venus is moving into one of her favoured signs of Libra, to join the Sun and reminds us that living life in balance can see us better able to enjoy the finer things, instead of dwelling in one area of life above all others. Venus in Libra is living life in all her finery, immaculate vernacular, charming and eloquent though perhaps appealing to our ostentatious sides. But fairness, equality and togetherness are also qualities that we can expect when Venus is in Libra, though I would advise choosing ones’ company carefully over the next few weeks. If you suffer from the modern affliction of “fear of missing out” or find that you are easily triggered by the have’s and the have not’s, I highly recommend that you take this time to have a break from social media. Sometimes we are desperate to keep up with society and feel the need to present ourselves as something that we aren’t or don’t genuinely agree with to feel like we are keeping pace with everyone else. This will likely increase over the next few weeks. Take a social media break if you are feeling a little fragile, or on the flip side of the coin, if you find that you are too engaged in the game of likes and follows, take a little time out and experience real life without attempting to get the right filter or frame. I recently watched the funeral of Queen Elizabeth the II and was shocked to see what looked like the Nazi salute from the crowd as her Hearst drove by, only to realize it was everyone holding their phones up and out to video the moment.

Please take this is your friendly reminder to put your phone down, breathe in the beauty of your everyday life and enjoy it, privately, just for you, not to be shared with the masses.

I will also be taking a look at the Sun making a helpful aspect with the planet of responsibility, Saturn and how we might take advantage of that. Read on to see how you might harness the power of the planets in your life, if you know your rising sign, start there first.

Aries:

If you found that you weren’t able to implement the new daily routine that you were striving for, this is a great time to try again. Having a spring clean and getting your kitchen cupboard organized might help you keep on track for the rest of the year. Your closest relationships are still in the spotlight and there is more unity and romance available to you now. Passionate conversations with others might spark new ideas and you might find yourself better able to take on more responsibility within a community organization.

Taurus:

You might have found it a struggle to commit to that relaxation time that you so desperately were trying to set aside. You get a second chance at making some changes, getting a new hobby organized or it might be that you are better equipped to handle interactions with the children in your life. Your daily habits and routines are in the spotlight, asking you to find the beauty in your daily life. Someone helpful might pop up, offering you a hand or a good idea to implement to allow for a smoother running of your daily chores.

Gemini:

If times at home have been rife with blunders, bloopers, and miscommunications, you might find that those wrinkles start to smooth out now. Giving your house a tidy up or even getting a bigger project started at home will flow with more ease and not seem so muddled. Romance, love, and fun times with children abound over the next few weeks, take advantage if you can. If you’re able to take more time out to indulge in your hobbies and leisure time, you will get a lot out of it at the moment.

Cancer:

You might have been feeling like no one is speaking your language lately, especially at home, but this is about to change. You will be better able to organize your thoughts and communicate more clearly over the next week or so. The spotlight is shining on your home and family life, offering you the opportunity to spend some lovely quality time with your family members. If you have been putting off the arduous tasks in the realm of taxes, insurance, or estate planning, you might find that around the middle of October you will be better supported in taking on those tasks.

Leo:

You might have found that the Mercury retrograde wreaked havoc in your conversations with others, or that serious brain fog has been swirling around, but fear not as the mist is about to clear. An emphasis on connecting others with your communications, whether it be through writing or speaking are heightened now. You also get a second chance to get your finances in order and get organized around your household budget. If there is something that you have been trying to save for, opportunities to have more discipline or clearer steps to get there abound.

Virgo:

Lucky lady Venus has entered your house of money and possessions and hopefully she brings you good news and blessings. Money matters might be what occupies your thoughts at the moment and the welcome sight of Venus here can offer up some unexpected gifts. If things have felt like they have been moving backwards on the financial front, they should hopefully start moving in the right direction very soon. If you have been feeling like your daily routine, your health goals or chores in general are not where you want them to be, you will have the opportunity to get on top of things with more discipline than before.

Libra:

Life can be grand with the Sun and Venus in your sign, giving charm and grace, shining a flattering light on you for a glorious four-week window that only happens once a year. If you have found that things have been a bit rough or confusing lately, you should hopefully start to experience at turning of the tides. Responsibilities around the children in your life might have been feeling rather restrictive lately, hampering your freedoms but you might find that abates now, and you are better able to just enjoy their company.

Scorpio:

This is a great time of the year to get out of dodge if you can swing a cheeky getaway. It doesn’t have to be a big adventure to the ends of the Earth, but a little time on your own can be most beneficial. You might already be feeling a little bit like the hermit in the mountains, so if you can embrace it and take some space for yourself, you will be better able to recharge your batteries. If things in your social circle haven’t gone to plan or perhaps some friends from the past have come out of the woodwork, it should start to smooth over now.

Sagittarius:

Any hiccups that have been happening with friends or at work over the past few weeks should clear up now. Lovely, connective times with friends or groups are on the agenda, offering you time to enjoy those people that you have chosen to be in your life. Communications at work are strong, seeing you better able to make deals and get organized where needed. Passions might be running hot in your closest partnerships right now, make sure that you enjoy this time as it won’t always be like this. If you are unattached, this is a time when you might be more focused on finding ‘the one’, try looking at connections through work, you just don’t know who you might bump into at the watercooler.

Capricorn:

Work is most definitely in the spotlight for you at the moment, and a flattering light it is. If you have been feeling unsteady in your career or uncertain of your life’s direction in this arena, you might find that you fall in love with what you’re currently doing or find that niche that you want to pursue. Exploring the wider world might also be on the agenda, whether through travel or conversations with new people from different backgrounds to yourself can seem clearer and more direct. If money matters have felt heavy or restrictive lately, you might be better able to get organized and find a little financial freedom.

Aquarius:

Pack your bags and grab your passport friends and get ready for takeoff. If you are one of the lucky ducks that have been able to hop on a plane and have a great adventure, congratulations! If you’ve been planning your great escape and have felt hampered at every turn, I urge you to try again, doors will be open now that were shut before. If you aren’t one of the lucky ones that finds yourself exploring foreign lands, perhaps try to create an experience for yourself at home, foreign foods, music, movies, or literature can still delight the senses.

Pisces:

 Venus is offering some blessings to you that might take the form of inheritance or (fingers crossed) a juicy income tax return headed your way. If you have been looking into insurance policies, estate planning or investments lately, now’s a good time to make decisions and go for it. If things have been muddled regarding these topics lately, do try again, it will be much clearer and perhaps beneficial now as opposed to a few weeks ago. Home and family life might seem to be in high gear, moving a good clip, but it is soon to settle down feel less hectic.

FIRST we had AusNet. Proposed high voltage transmission lines across Hepburn and Moorabool shires – with a terminal station at Blampied.
Now we also have the proposed Victoria-New South Wales Interconnector (VNI) West project, a high capacity 500 kilovolt double-circuit overhead transmission line – with a terminal station at Mt Prospect.
At this rate the region will become a criss-cross of overhead wires linked by massive metallic towers, ending in buzzing terminal stations. What a great look for locals and visitors to enjoy. Farewell pristine vistas and valuable farming land, and hello giant webs of wire.
Why are the federal and state governments allowing this? Because it’s cheaper to run wires overhead than think about the future, spend a bit more and go underground.
How do they sell it? They say it’s all about renewable energy. So, if you complain about these ugly lines running through pristine vistas, you’re against renewables. Don’t you care about our future, or the future of your children and your children’s children? How very selfish.
Oh, you do care about renewables! That just makes you a NIMBY. You want to save the planet but not if it’s in your backyard. How very selfish.
It’s a hard one to fight. The governments are well funded with taxpayer dollars and also very good at holding information sessions to make people think they have been listened to and had their say. Good at dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s.
(Ed’s note – fellow editors please do not write in and tell me those two apostrophes don’t belong there. I know, just looks odd otherwise.)
But I think we have to fight. Decisions like these cannot just be about dollars. There must be another value on people and livelihoods and vistas.
How much value do you place on a farmer, working land bought with their hard-earned money, selling fresh produce to their community and raising their family?
How much do value you place on a visitor to the region, driving through pristine countryside, breathing deeply, relaxing, before returning to the business of Melbourne?
How much value do you place on the many small communities coming together to celebrate births and weddings, to mourn deaths, to dance and chat, to play sport?
And how much value do you place on the environment, on native habitat which is already under threat by the continuing urban creep into the regions?
Governments must place value on these things and that value is greater than the dollar savings of building lines overhead rather than underground. To do otherwise is short-sighted and, quite frankly, devaluing lives.
Governments are only elected to carry out the wishes of the people. And it is clear the people of the region do not want these lines or terminal stations. If you are in doubt just head towards Newlyn and look to the left to read Piss Off AusNet on the hill. Nothing subtle about that sentiment.
I think the really selfish move here is by the governments and shareholders of these massive energy companies to try and railroad regional communities and people into something by calling it for the greater good.
It is not good. It is bad and ugly and damaging to lives and livelihoods. Piss off AusNet and VNI. And the federal and state governments who allow this to happen. Spend some of your huge profits and your taxpayer money and put these lines underground. Respect our region and value our lives.
Ugly transmission wires rant over!

Archie Roach

He stopped me in my tracks,
I had to reconsider my way of living,
nothing to do with the ways of whites or blacks,
only the vibes I felt while he was singing.

I feel his resonance deep inside my bones,
resounding often at quiet times of day,
amazing, this inner music of deeper zones,
things I can sing, songs my bones can play.

• James Baillie

James is a lazy and industrious, happy and sad, normalish bloke growing from old to ancient and loving it.

Local Lines comes mainly from a group of local poets but other submissions are always welcome. To have a poem considered for publication
contact Bill Wootton at cottlesbreedge@gmail.com