A total 1600 named pavers are being removed for safe keeping and will be re-laid in the new Grenville Street gardens as work on Ballarat’s Bridge Mall redevelopment project progresses.

The pavers feature the names of community members who made donations towards the playground when the mall was developed in 1981.The Bridge Mall redevelopment is a key project of the Bakery Hill Urban Renewal Plan.

Construction works started in recent months with the redevelopment is expected to be completed mid-2024.

The Bakery Hill Urban Renewal Plan is the first step in revitalising the Ballarat CBD and aims to restore the Bridge Mall to a vibrant destination for shoppers, diners, residents and visitors.

Fully-funded by the City of Ballarat, the $18.6 million redevelopment features a landscaped entry into the mall, a shared streetscape with one-way, low speed vehicle access and a dynamic new play space.  

The redevelopment also includes a portal to the Yarrowee River flowing beneath the mall, smart street lighting and projections, limited parking and better access for people of all abilities.    

The Hepburn Shire Council has formally stated its unanimous support for the constitutional recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through the Voice to Parliament.

Mayor of Hepburn Shire Council Cr Brian Hood said the stance was consistent with the council’s position to support the Uluru Statement from the Heart in August 2022.

“Our support for the Voice to Parliament aligns with the work Council does towards recognition and reconciliation, including actions within our four-year Council Plan, Community Vision and Reconciliation Action Plan,” said Cr Hood.

“Examples of this work include the award-winning Manna Gums Frontier Wars Memorial near Coomoora; bringing language back to Country with the creek naming of Larni Barramal Yaluk; and supporting a range of community activities that promote understanding and reconciliation,” he said.

In reaching its unanimous decision councillors acknowledged that a First Nations Voice to Parliament would be an independent, representative advisory body that will provide a permanent means to advise Parliament and Government on matters affecting the lives of First Nations communities – including advice on practical steps to improve health, education, employment and housing. Most importantly, a Voice to Parliament would be the means for recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the Australian Constitution for the first time.

Councillors further noted that supporting constitutional recognition aligns with Hepburn Shire Council’s Reconciliation Plan and its underlying commitments to self-determination, partnerships, community dialogue and truth-telling.

Council has also resolved to share clear, credible information on the Voice to Parliament and all aspects of the upcoming referendum.

“We appreciate there are divergent views on this matter within the community. Providing clear and credible information will assist residents in making their own considered and informed decision,” said Cr Hood.

“As always, we encourage our community to inform themselves and respectfully exercise their democratic right to have their say,” he said.

The council has adopted the following motion:

That Council:

1. In recognition of the position advocated by the Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation and consistent with the Council motion of August 2022 supporting the Uluru Statement from the Heart, formally supports constitutional recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, through a Voice to Parliament enshrined in the Australian Constitution;

2. Commits to sharing clear, credible information on the Voice to Parliament and all aspects of the upcoming referendum to assist residents in making their own considered and informed choice on the day; and

3. Acknowledges that any position resolved by Council is without prejudice to individual position each Councillor, or Council officer, may privately or publicly pursue.

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s annual Youth Awards were held at Kyneton Town Hall earlier this month with a crowd of over 100 people gathering to celebrate the outstanding achievements of young people in the shire. 

This year, more than 30 young people – groups and individuals – were nominated across six award categories, with the judging panel consisting of young people. 

The council’s Director Community, Maria Weiss, said that the quality of nominations this year was very high.

“We are very fortunate to have so many motivated and talented young people in our shire,” she said. “It’s so important we recognise their achievements through awards like these, to encourage them to continue on their incredible journeys.”

“Well done to all of this year’s nominees and winners, and thank you to those who took the time to nominate a young person excelling in our shire.”

The crowd was also entertained on the night by local up-and-coming musical acts Rhiannon Winchester and The Mods.

Congratulations to the following winners:

Willpower

Young people who show real character and perseverance, especially in the face of adversity.

Winner: Toby Birkett

Toby has been an active member of the Braemar Cadet unit for many years and is now in a position of leadership. They have demonstrated their ability to work and fight for what they are passionate about within a large 35-plus person unit showing skills in direction, management, and communication. All while suffering a significant leg injury and enduring more than 10 months on crutches, overcoming extreme challenges and disruptions in their school and personal life.

Skilling It

Young people excelling in a mentorship program, workplace or business.

Winners: Casey Carew and Akira Zutelia

Casey and Akira began working with Gisborne Family Dental without any previous experience in the industry and have both proven themselves very quickly. They have fantastic work attitudes, are fast learners, and have never held back in developing their knowledge and skills. From day one they have fit into the family-orientated workplace and naturally know the importance of teamwork.

Good Deeds

Young people excelling in a mentorship program, workplace or business.

Winner: Alexander O’Hanlon

Alexander is a member of the House of Awesome LGBTIQA+ social support group, the Sunbury Glitter Group, the Kyneton High Pride Crew, and was a participant in the WayOut Pride Camp, and in other WayOut events in the community such as Queers on the Catwalk and IDAHOBIT celebrations.

As a community connector with LGBTIQA+ young people in the region, he has helped raise awareness about LGBTIQA+ experiences and programs available for young people. He is great at making people feel included and helping to promote safe, supportive and affirming spaces for LGBTIQA+ young people.

Pure Imagination

Young people pursuing their passion for creativity through the arts.

Winner: Charlie Jackman

In 2019, Charlie’s small business called Charlie by Art was born. Working with his mum, Charlie turns his art into greeting cards to sell on his website. Through the business, Charlie has learnt skills including business management, customer service and web skills. He sells his cards at markets and The Corner Café in Gisborne which helps him to build social skills, connection and confidence.

In 2019, Charlie was commissioned to produce artwork for Victorian Premier, Daniel Andrews, creating an artwork called “Melbourne” for his Christmas card. In 2020, he was commissioned by the Victorian Minister for Creative Industries to create an artwork called “A Fresh Start”, reflecting on the Covid pandemic.

Nicely Played

Young people kicking recreational and physical activity goals.

Winner: Lachlan Goodes

Lachie is the youngest member of Macedon Ranges Cycling Club and in March this year, he completed his longest ride so far of 75km on the Great Victorian Rail Trail. He participated in the 2022 Tour de Kids, riding 250kms in 30 days and raising funds for the Starlight Foundation.

Lachie also completed the 60km in the Great Ocean Otway Classic in April 2022 (the youngest child to participate) and 108km from Tallarook-Bonnie Doon (12 years old) in July 2022. His biggest achievement so far has been riding 21.52km up Mt Buffalo on his gravel bike; an elevation of 1074m and a time of time 2hrs 6mins, with snow during the last 10km. 

Well Aware

Young people who shine light on important issues or social causes and raises awareness in the community.

Winner: Cameron Palmer

As the inaugural First Nations school captain of Gisborne Secondary College, Cameron has worked tirelessly to raise the profile of First Nations students and raise awareness of First Nations culture and history, particularly within the Macedon Ranges. Cameron has been involved in various initiatives including organising events for Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week.

After discovering his First Nations heritage as a teenager, he has not only embraced this connection, but also looked to how he could positively interact with the many opportunities and challenges it has presented. Cameron has inspired his family to become more aware of things from a First Nations viewpoint and is a great role model for his younger siblings. 

The Hepburn Shire Council has released a summary of progress towards delivering goals contained in its 2022/2023 Annual Plan.

Mayor of Hepburn Shire Cr Brian Hood said the council has been able to make good progress over the last 12 months, amid challenges.

“It’s very pleasing to reflect on some of the achievements over the last year, especially when you consider the challenges we have faced in terms of ongoing recovery from multiple storm and flood events, the rising costs of construction, challenges with supply chains and increasing financial pressures,” said Cr Hood. 

The Annual Plan serves as a progress tracker for the objectives outlined in the four-year Council Plan rather than an all-inclusive list of that plan. 

“Some of the highlights include completion of two major capital projects, the Trentham Sportsground Reserve Pavilion and Hammon Park Trailhead,” said Cr Hood. 

“Both projects have delivered considerable benefits for the community and are very well-used and popular spaces,” he said. 

Other features in the Annual Plan 2022/23 progress update include developing and implementing the Sustainable Hepburn Strategy and circular economy activities, adopting a Disability Access Inclusion Plan and youth strategy, and completing a flora and fauna assessment of Creswick township and surrounds. 

At the Council meeting last night Council also adopted its Annual Plan for 2023/2024. The plan highlights the delivery of 34 projects and initiatives aligned with the four-year Council Plan. 

Action items include the planned rollout of Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) across townships to reduce landfill (expected in 2024), review of short-term accommodation, ongoing repair of sealed roads damaged by storm events, finalise a business case on aquatics provision, adopt an Integrated Transport Strategy, develop a new Reconciliation Action Plan, continue the strategic planning project Future Hepburn, renew Wheelers Bridge in Lawrence, support the transition to a circular economy, complete construction of the Trentham Community Hub, deliver enhancements to modernise Council’s planning services, conduct a review of Council’s Long Term Financial Plan and much more. 

Those keen to take a closer look can find more details on the Plans, strategies and studies page of the council’s website at www.hepburn.vic.gov.au. 

Hepburn shire locals who are passionate about the environment and who want to take action on climate change are being invited to get involved in a significant native planting program.

The Hepburn Shire Council is partnering with North Central Catchment Management Authority, City of Greater Bendigo, Macedon Ranges Shire Council and Mount Alexander Shire Council to deliver a native planting program, helping it reach its goal of achieving net-zero emissions.

The council says it now wants to hear from locals, including landholders who have ten hectares or more and who are keen to take part in a large-scale revegetation pilot project called Community Carbon.

In a media statement the council says those who get involved will reap many benefits including:

• Attracting diverse wildlife
• Improving the appearance of local properties
• Reducing soil erosion
• Improving soil health
• Enhancing water quality.

The project aims to leverage carbon offset needs of local councils and provide financial support to revegetate local habitat.

By drawing down carbon with trees and shrubs grown on local private land, we also combat biodiversity loss, restore native habitat and tackle climate change.

Expressions of interest are open until Saturday 30 September 2023 with more information available at www.nccma.vic.gov.au/climatechange/community-carbon

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council has welcomed a recent state government announcement which it says will ‘protect the future of the culturally significant Hanging Rock’.
The launch of the Hanging Rock Precinct Master Plan has been complemented by confirmation of the
sale of East Paddock at Hanging Rock from the council to the Victorian Government. The council, in a media statement, now says this will allow for ‘a single ownership of the Hanging Rock precinct for the long-term benefit of the community’.
Mayor Annette Death said the sale and master plan would help ensure that the cultural and environmental significance of the site was not only protected but enhanced progressively over the
coming decades.
“We look forward to continuing to work with the Victorian Government and Traditional Owner groups
on the precinct’s long-term management and development, to continue to provide a truly unique
visitor experience that champions the site as a historically special meeting place,” she said.
“Council will also continue to work closely with the Victorian Government and Hanging Rock sporting
groups on what the endorsed master plan will mean for them in the short and long term, with the
focus on finding suitable new spaces that meet their needs into the future.”
CEO Bernie O’Sullivan said that the council will be retained as the Committee of Management for at least the next three years – an important condition Council stipulated when confirming a decision to sell East Paddock in June 2022.
“We’re very proud of the work our team at Hanging Rock continues to deliver, in helping to provide a
truly unique experience for tens of thousands of visitors every year while continuing to respect the
land as a significant site for our three Traditional Owner groups,” he said.
The council considered the sale price of East Paddock – just under $3 million – as suitable and within
market range, as assessed by its appointed valuer.
The council, in its statement, says that over the coming months, it ‘will carefully assess the best strategic management of these funds for the long-term benefit of the community’.

Ratepayers in Hepburn Shire have begun receiving their rates notices over recent days.

Rates and charges make up over half of Council’s annual budgeted revenue and are vital to delivering services such as parks and gardens, waste collection, local road maintenance and construction, libraries, public sporting and recreation facilities, and much more.  

The increase to the council’s rate revenue has been capped at 3.5 percent in line with the Victorian Government’s Fair Go Rates System. This compares to a six percent CPI increase in the year to June 2023.  

Hepburn Shire Mayor Cr Brian Hood said not every household will see a 3.5 percent increase in rates. 

“How much you pay for rates very much depends on the value of your property. The Valuer General values all properties in Victoria every year, a process completely independent of councils. These valuations are used by Council to calculate rates” said Cr Hood. 

This year, about 52 percent of rateable properties within Hepburn Shire will incur a rate increase lower than the 3.5 percent rate rise cap.   

• 36 percent of residential properties will actually see a reduction in rates compared to last year. 
• 16 percent of residential properties will incur an increase in rates of less than 3.5 per cent compared to last year.  

• 48 percent of residential properties will incur an increase in rates of more than 3.5 per cent compared to last year. 

In order to calculate rates, the total amount of revenue to be raised by the council in general rates is divided by the total value of all rateable properties in the shire. The resulting figure is called the ‘rate in the dollar’.

The council then applies a ‘rate in the dollar’ to the assessed value of each property. This rate differs depending on the type of property. For example, residential, commercial and farming properties each have a different rate in the dollar. 

Ratepayers will also see waste charges on their rates notices. This includes a waste management charge that is levied on all properties and collection charges that are based on the service received. A fire services property levy is also included on rates notices, with 100% of the levy passed onto the state government to fund fire and emergency services in Victoria. 

The Victorian Government provides pensioners with a concession on rates and charges.  

This concession is an annual capped amount set by the Department of Human Services and in 2023/2024 is $253.20.  There is also a rebate of $50 available against the Fire Services Property Levy. 

“Council also offers an additional $21 rebate for pensioners who qualify under the state government pensioner rate remission scheme. We are one of the few councils who offer this additional rebate,” said Cr Hood. 

Eligible pensioners can apply by contacting Council.   

Cr Hood acknowledged the current economic situation is causing financial pressure on households.  

“We know financial struggles are real for many households. If you are having difficulty paying your rates, please get in touch with our Rates Team. You can contact them on (03) 5348 2306 to discuss arranging a payment plan in line with our hardship policy,” said Cr Hood. 

“There is a lot of information on our website relating to rates, including frequently asked questions and information on how to pay your rates,” he said. 

“You can also choose to have your rates notices emailed to you rather than sent through the mail. Visit the website or drop into your closest council hub for details.” 

Local music lovers are in for a rare treat as world renown pianist Leslie Howard is giving a once-off afternoon matinee concert in Daylesford next month to support Creswick Health’s hospital and aged care upgrades.

“If there is a pianist alive who knows Liszt’s piano music more thoroughly, intimately and directly than Leslie Howard I would like to meet him – or her – but I doubt that there is anyone on the planet who does,” wrote Guy Rickards for Musical Opinion, reviewing Leslie Howard’s 2021 piano recital at London’s Wigmore Hall.

London-based Aussie pianist Howard is the first and only person in the world to have recorded the complete solo piano works of legendary Hungarian composer, Franz Liszt, who is regarded as one of the greatest pianists and most popular piano composers of all time. This mammoth project, which took Howard decades to complete, now comprises a 100-CD set and includes more than 300 premiere recordings. 

Howard has received enormous praise and numerous awards for his Liszt recordings, including the Guinness World Record for the Largest Recording Series by a Solo Artist, six Grands Prix du Disque and the Medal of St Stephen, presented to him by the President of Hungary. He has also held the title of President of the British Liszt Society since 1987. 

In addition to his impressive recording career, Howard maintains a busy international concert schedule, which has seen him perform regularly around the world for more than 50 years.

Coming up September 17 this renown Australian pianist, musicologist and composer will give a matinee (2pm) concert at Daylesford Town Hall to raise money for Creswick Health Service. It will be his only performance in Victoria.

The Guardian described Howard as a “master of a tradition of pianism that is in serious danger of dying out”. Those who make next month’s concert at Daylesford Town Hall can expect to hear Mozart, Beethoven and Liszt compositions rendered by a master of the keyboard.

Cost is $35 – proceeds towards to cause – with tickets through Humanitix

The state government has purchased Hanging Rock’s East Paddock and released a new masterplan to further protect the cultural significance of the cherished destination.
Minister for Environment Ingrid Stitt last week announced the $3 million investment will
provide a clear pathway for the future management of the iconic Hanging Rock.
The newly acquired East Paddock will offically be intergrated into the Hanging Rock Reserve, ensuring the precinct remains protected for years to come.
Events at the East Paddock will be carefully managed to limit impacts on nature and the
surrounding environment.
Traditional Owners groups and the Macedon Ranges Shire Council were consulted extensively to develop the Hanging Rock Precinct Master Plan which outlines new actions on how to sustainably promote the regions cultural heritage.
The Plan also outlines future developments to protect the natural environment and improve the visitor experience, including a new revegetated ’Songline’ walking trail and a visitor centre that will act as a hub for dining and education purposes.
The Labor Government will continue to work towards a joint management arrangement with Traditional Owners, Macedon Ranges Shire Council will continue to manage the day-to- day operations of Hanging Rock for at least another three years.
The Hanging Rock Precinct Master Plan and purchase of East Paddock are among the aims set out in the 50-year Hanging Rock Strategic Plan approved by the Victorian Government and Macedon Ranges Shire Council in 2018.

Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas: “I thank everyone for their hard work creating the Hanging Rock Master Plan, so that this special place continues to be protected.”

Retirement for Warragul local, Vaughan Fox, was going to be all about pottering around in his shed, building a wooden boat and learning to weld.

That was four years ago. Vaughan, 73, is now the secretary of CFA’s Warragul Fire Brigade and he has written a book about the brigade’s history to coincide with the 140^th anniversary this month.

When the brigade was discussing the 140^th anniversary a year ago a conversation came up between Captain Tyler Hogan and Vaughn.

“I had written my family history and I showed the Captain and he said you are the man to write the brigade’s history,” Vaughan said.

“You have to know your history. They have to know what it was like, how things evolved – to me it’s important.”

To celebrate the milestone, a dinner and awards ceremony was held on Saturday 12 August at the Warragul Downtowner where several long service awards were handed out. These included two CFA life membership awards to Brian Brewer (45 years service) and Graeme Minns (30 years service) and three National Emergency Medals to Bradley Hogan, Timothy Pritchard and Graeme Minns.

The history of the Warragul Fire Brigade began in 1883 in Queens Street, Warragul. In 1902 the brigade moved to the lower part of Smith Street and then to the top end of Smith Street in 1930.

In 2000 the brigade moved to Gladstone Street, Warragul, which is where they remain today.

Today the brigade boasts 65 members with 43 operational firefighters, four trucks including a Hazmat vehicle. The brigade responds to about 280 calls per year.

Warragul Captain, Tyler Hogan, said the 140^th anniversary was a significant milestone and it was important to collate the brigade’s history.

“The history was all starting to get a bit lost, but this book collates it all and we can keep the information centralised,” Tyler said.

The book outlines, in chronological order, from 1883 to the current day. Vaughan went through the old newspapers to piece together the history.

As for artefacts there is an old bell that the brigade believes dates back to 1893. The bell is now symbolic and hangs in the station. There is also a letter that the Warragul founding Captain wrote to the council in 1883. The Warragul and District Historical Society had a copy and this will now be framed and hung in the station.

To order a copy of the Warragul Fire Brigade book contact the brigade.

The Geelong West Fire Brigade has been a long-standing piece of CFA history, marking its 140th year of protecting lives and property earlier this month.

Formed in 1883, the brigade has evolved into an active, strong, volunteer-based fire brigade and community asset. 

A couple of weekends ago, the brigade’s annual dinner and award presentation was attended by CFA Board Member Beth Davidson, CFA A/Deputy Chief Officer South West Adrian Gutsche, Captain Paul Cockerill and members from neighbouring brigades. 

Paul said it was great to gather with so many community-focused people to reflect on the rich history of the brigade. 

“It was wonderful to hear the colourful stories about the brigade shared around the room,” he said. 

“I’ve been a member of the brigade since 1998 and to me, the brigade has always been about giving back to the community and protecting our local area. 

“It’s really rewarding to be part of a welcoming, tight-knit group that has community safety front-of-mind. 

“Our brigade is strong and active and many of our members have made life-long friendships during and after their time with the brigade, which is a testament to sort of people who’ve been part of our history.”  

The brigade currently has 56 members and attend approximately 240 incidents annually. 

It operates one pumper, one tanker and one forward command vehicle. 

Group Delegate Brendan Robertson reflected on how far the brigade has come over time. 

“Our brigade history is so vast and its remarkable how far firefighting safety equipment and technology has come,” he said. 

“When looking back at photos of myself at fires decades ago, I noticed I was wearing jeans and sometimes sneakers, and it’s amazing to reflect on how much has changes and how great our gear is now. 

“You wouldn’t dream of being at a fire now without the proper safety gear, which is so important.” 

Brendan also said the brigade is in great hands and has a bright future ahead of it. 

“I’m very impressed with the leadership of the brigade,” he said. 

“They have a group that is active and passionate about doing the right thing for their community.” 

This year also marks another significant moment in the brigade’s history, being 25 years on since the tragic loss of five Geelong West firefighters in the Linton fire in 1998. 

The brigade will mark the anniversary later this year with a memorial service which will be open to the public. 

The brigade will honour the lives of Christopher Evans, Jason Thomas, Matthew Armstrong, Stuart Davidson and Garry Vredeveldt at the event. 

More than 500 collective years of service was celebrated at the South Gippsland Group of Fire Brigades’ annual dinner last month.

Volunteers and locals across the region gathered at the Toora Fire Brigade that this year celebrate their station’s 90-year anniversary.

The township’s character stems back to when the community first purchased the station site at Gray Street for 500 pounds, with the backing of the butcher, baker, and barber.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of eight National Emergency Medals awarded by the Governor General recognising diligent long service to the community in hazardous circumstances.

CFA General Group Manager Support Services Kylee Bates, supported by Acting Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Emma Conway presented National Medals to Foster brigade members, David Chapman, Robert Powell, James McIntyre 1st clasp, Ronald Fisher 3rd clasp and Toora’s Ken Roche, Graham Pattie, Michael Benton, and Ray Argento 1st clasp.

A CFA Life Membership was presented to Bryan Duffus of Fish Creek & District Fire Brigade. Bryan first joined CFA as a junior over 60 years ago and has diligently served in the brigade, undertaking a range of duties including 1st Lieutenant and general firefighting.

“Bryan is highly regarded by members within the brigade and the Group and by members of neighbouring brigades,” A/ACFO Conway said.

“He has regularly acted as a conduit between the brigade to other parts of the community and assists with driving duties at Foster Fire Brigade where he is equally as highly regarded.

“New members and those less experienced have often asked his counsel on operational and procedural matters.”

Closing out the evening, saw outgoing Toora brigade manager Bob Morris presented with a certificate signed by his friends and colleagues at Toora Fire Brigade thanking him for his dedication in the role. Lieutenants Alex Berry and Nigel Plowright cut the celebratory cake that was generously donated to the brigade by a grateful community member.

Special certificates and Brigade Life Memberships were presented by Foster Captain David Jones for Brian Mellor, James McIntyre and Paula Crossley, while service medals recognising dedicated years of service to CFA and communities was presented by Acting Assistant Chief Fire Officer Emma Conway.

The night of 18 September 2022 could very well have been remembered in a very different light if not for the actions of Barnawartha Fire Brigade volunteers Jaymee Faz and Grant Pimm.

A cold and miserable night changed dramatically when a structure fire started on main street, Barnawartha. The actions of Jaymee and Grant went a long way to saving the lives of their neighbours that night.

To recognise their extraornary effort, Barnawartha brigade nominated both for a Citizen’s Commendation and the awrd was presented at Barnawartha brigade’s annual dinner on 12 August at the Star hotel in Barnawartha – an establishment which has its own history having been significantly damaged by fire in 2006.

Attended by 60 members and their families, the significance of the Citizen’s Commendation was not lost on the audience. 

Nor was the presentation of service medals to brigade members which amounted to a total of 965 years of service to the community. 

Combined with the presentation of National Emergency Medals to five members and 2nd clasps for the National Medal to three other members meant that CFA Board Member Ross Coyle had a busy night.

With Commander Trevor Logan being assisted by Brigade Administrative Support Officer Tony Cattermole, the presentations to the 32 recipients went seamlessly. 

Special mention and thanks goes to the photographer on the night. Hudson Weber, who cannot wait to join the brigade and stand alongside his three brothers and parents who are already serving their community. Being a fairly typical nine-year-old, Hudson had no trouble at all getting smiles for the camera.

Brigade Captain Xavier Stanford welcomed all and spoke about the contributions made by members over the past 12 months. He talked about not only the number of brigade turnouts, but also the many other areas the brigade members were involved in. Barnawartha brigade members represent VFBV at state level, are involved in the Rutherglen Group and are members of the District 23 and 24 peer team.

The inaugural Pacific Airshow Gold Coast was a sensory overload. The show sported aerobatic aircraft from the mid-sized two airplanes in one, a super loud Yak110 and the huge C-130 Hercules through to my favourite the air ripping F/A-18 Super Hornet’s handling display.

As with a lot of Central Highlanders we started our annual heat seeking mission north to break the winter mundanity and landed on the Gold Coast.

We had never heard about the airshow and only found out about it when we were told to check out of our accommodation on August 18 as all accommodation as full.

But as it turned out there was a cancellation close to our departure date, so we continued our stay and booked into one of the last available sea-facing balconies on the Gold Coast.

Donna did her thing and quickly ordered some press passes which, when you have a newspaper for an email signature, it is actually quite easy.

I shot photos from the balcony and down at Surfers Paradise using my phone as my real gear was back at the office. Although you didn’t really need a zoom lens as the action was happening at eye level 200 metres from our balcony.

The action lasted over four and a half hours every day for three days.

I must admit some of the loop-the-loop plans became a bit tedious, but that was made up for by the thundering Globemaster and the F/A-18 which went past the front window doing what I can only explain as a wheely, with its pointy end skyward walking along on its jets and dropping anti-missile flares. The noise felt like the flesh was shuddering from your bones in a sort of an air tearing sound that made you cover your ears and look around for the broken windowpanes.

Some days prior we had attended the airshow opening at Coolangatta Airport where the charming and very proud Tom Tate, the Gold Coast Mayor, took to the podium to open the show.

He seemed pretty chuffed that they had locked in yet another large event for the GC and then donned an air suit complete with sickbag to hop onto jet.

It was later said that the only bomb that was dropped over the weekend was the F-bomb from Cr Tate, as the pilot twisted, stretched and G-forced him in a spectacular jet flight experience.

To prepare for the upcoming fire season, Malmsbury and Taradale Fire Brigade members recently met with Coliban Water to better understand the water supply in their region.

Brigade members were made aware of different water sources to help fight fires.

Coliban Water’s Network Services Manager Nathalie Lopez and Water and Sewer Planning Coordinator Paul Vickery presented to the eager volunteers in recent weeks.

Throughout the recent informative training session, Malmsbury brigade volunteer Philip Flanagan said they learned about the Coliban Water supply systems and how they function across Taradale, Elphinstone, Malmsbury, and Kyneton.

“We were shown maps of the various water sources, including dams such as the Upper Coliban and Malmsbury, and the pipeline and aqueduct networks for all those areas,” Philip said.

“We went through where the systems were boosted and the location of additional water holdings in tanks and towers.

“We identified areas that had particularly higher and lower pressures, and what we could expect in certain circumstances when required out on the fireground.”

Drawing on their experiences from previous fire incidents, members took the opportunity to ask key questions about the systems.

“It was fantastic to understand how the Upper Coliban dam syphons to much of Kyneton, but also has a branch line down to Malmsbury,” he said.

“With the majority of the area siphoning off dams, we were also made aware of additional pumping facilities.

“Having this knowledge greatly increases our ability to source water supply to efficiently fight fires.”

Nathalie and Paul highlighted some of the improvements that are planned for the systems over the next few years, particularly around Elphinstone, to improve water pressure.

Following the success of the session, members suggested the training be repeated every two years to refresh members’ knowledge, inform new members and ensure all are aware of system developments.

Malmsbury Fire Brigade Captain Linda Krive thanked Coliban Water for the enlightening presentation and for the recent $5000 grant provided to the brigade as part of its Community Rebate scheme.

The money will be used to buy lightweight, battery-operated chainsaws, a high intensity light and batteries, and eight e-flares for roadside incident visibility and safety.