FORGET the days when school lunch meant a pallid pastry followed by
a fizzy saccharine chaser and a stomach ache.
A home-grown social enterprise has been quietly cooking up some piping
hot success in ensuring kids at multiple schools across Hepburn Shire go healthy
when it comes to tucker time.
Lyonville-based, former senior state public health advisor, Shelley Bowen is CEO
of Health Futures Australia, a non-profit health promotion organisation that started
the SHIFT Healthy Lunch Kitchen back in March last year.
“My real interest is children’s health and wellbeing. Nine out of 10 children aren’t
getting enough fruit and vegetables,” Shelley, who has a doctorate in public health,
said.
SHIFT stands for Sustainable Healthy Integrated Food Towns, and the main aim
is to provide nutrition-rich food with low food miles and minimal waste, at prices in
reach of everyone.
“We use as much locally grown produce as possible and we’ve got six local
suppliers which is fantastic,” Shelley said.
The school lunches have so far been taken up by Daylesford, St Michaels,
Hepburn, Daylesford Dharma, Yandoit and Trentham primary schools, offering
menu options ranging in price from $3.50 to $7.50.
Some of the lunch options currently on offer include rainbow veggie sushi ($7)
or chicken & veggie sushi ($7.50), three organic strawberry mini-muffins ($3.50),
organic strawberry puree and natural yoghurt cup ($3.50) or nourishing nachos
supreme ($7.50).
“We’re 100 per cent tax deductible and we subsidise each meal which is
something we’re able to do because we have donors or donations which can fill that
gap.”
And using the former canteen space at Daylesford Primary as their kitchen base,
they’ve been able to also introduce vegetable-packed take-home options once a week –
in a response to local demand.
Take-home meals, currently available on Thursdays, range from greens and ricotta
cannelloni with Napoli sauce, serves 4-6 ($35) or Italian meatballs with napoli and
lemony herby risoni, serves 4-6 ($40) to roasted local organic vegetable with pearl
couscous and tahini, serves 4 ($25) or crunchy crispy local colourful slaw, 500g ($9).
Shifting the aim to nutrition-rich food
But they’re now in need of a bigger kitchen premises and Shelley is keen to hear
from anyone in the Hepburn Shire who can help out with providing access to bigger
premises from which the model can function and expand into the future.
“Our biggest challenge is lack of a sizeable space. Next year we really need a larger
space that we can adapt or that we can affordably rent in the shire. We’re producing
hundreds of meals a week on two plug-in hotplates.”
The SHIFT Healthy Lunch Kitchen is currently able to operate using a pool of
about 12 enthusiastic volunteers, but also employs two part-time cooks and has just
been able to put on a new part-time apprentice, who is completing studies through
Shepparton’s GOTAFE, as well.
“We have an incredible network of volunteers. We don’t know what we’d do
without our volunteers.”
The hope is to employ more workers down the track and expand further in what
has become another local sustainability first that looks likely to turn heads much
further afield.
“We’re trying to build the enterprise.”
Shelley says the bigger vision is of a larger Healthy Lunch Kitchen operating out
of a purpose-built facility which includes vegetable production and aquaponics, and is
powered by conversion of organic food matter into biogas.
And towards progressing that vision, the organisation recently secured a $30,000
Regional Development Victoria state government grant to produce a business case
and proposition.
“We secured that grant about five months ago and the reports are now being
finalised. We’ve got a powerful test case. We’re using commercial principles for social
and health good. That’s the ethos.”
Words: Eve Lamb | Image: Kyle Barnes

Well hello there. I’m Colin and
I am a five-year-old (desexed)
dude with a classic black and
white rig.
I enjoy intelligent attention
and I love being around people,
but I can get a little grumpy if
I’m crowded so I am looking for
a family that will give me a little
respectful space when I need it
and not force attention on me at
such moments. Which I think
you’ll agree is only fair.
I am best suited to a
household with no small children
and no other cats.
If you would like to meet me
then please contact the Mount
Alexander Animal Welfare shelter
in Castlemaine to make a time on 5472 5277.
Link: www.maaw.org.au
(Microchip no. 956000010096624)
(Pick me, pick me is run in memory
of Rosie & Curly – we picked them.
And please remember a pet is not
for Covid or Christmas!)

LONG time LGBTIQA+ activist Rodney Croome will be special guest at
next month’s Birds of a Feather lunch event in Kyneton.
Tasmanian-based Rodney is particularly well known for his work on
the campaign to decriminalise homosexuality in Tasmania, and was a founder of
Australian Marriage Equality.
The stories and insights he is likely to bring to the table at next month’s BOAF
gathering fit perfectly with the aim of the events, says Belinda Brain, social worker
with Sunbury Cobaw Community Health, the organisation that runs Birds of a
Feather, or BOAF, events.
“Our vision is enriching and empowering the lives of LGBTIQA+ people in
Macedon and beyond,” says Belinda, who delivers the Country LGBTIQA+ Inclusive
Program. The Birds of a Feather events are part of my broader CLIP role with
Sunbury Cobaw Community Health,” she says. The next BOAF luncheon is set for
noon-2pm on Friday, December 9 at the Kyneton Bowls Club.
Also on Hepburn Shire’s LGBTIQA+ Advisory Committee, Belinda says the
BOAF luncheons are a means of enabling regional LGBTIQA+ people to connect,
share stories and make new friends in a welcoming environment. The fact that they’re
held at lunchtime is particularly aimed at ensuring they’re readily accessible for the
more mature LGBTIQ+ folk, and the only costs are the price of the meal and drinks.
“It can be really difficult to connect with older LGBTIQA+ people and this is one
of the ways that we can do that,” Belinda said. “People can bring along a friend or an
ally if that makes them more comfortable and they will find everyone very friendly
and welcoming. Sharing experience and story via our invited guests can help inspire
ope and uncover personal strength that participants can recognise in their own lives.”
BOAF was borne out of many passionate conversations between Belinda and
CLIP’s Nathan Allwood, pictured. Both recognised the need for a regular event
for older regional LGBTIQA+ individuals. They also identified a gap in Queer
connection options for folk residing in aged care.
“We also run a monthly rainbow coffee club for LGBTIQA+ people, friends and
allies at the Social Foundry in Kyneton on the last Friday of the month,” Belinda said.
Details: 5421 1666, belinda.brain@scchc.org.au or nathan.allwood@scchc.org.au
Words: Eve Lamb | Image: Kyle Barnes

Artist Keele Breen is holding an exhibition at Radius Gallery in Hepburn Springs from this
Saturday, November 26. It somehow involves a marriage proposal from over 50 years ago. Keele, who was The Local’s first artist feature in 2013, told her story to Donna Kelly.
“I GREW up in Glen Iris and went to the local
primary school, followed by Korowa – an
all-girls private school where I was a bit of a
square peg.
I went to Box Hill Tafe in 1987 where I studied
painting, drawing, printmaking and playing pool.
I’ve always loved to draw, and would write and
illustrate ‘novels’ starting around age 4.
When asked as a child what I’d like to be when I
grew up, I said either an artist or a builder. Dad was
forever working on building projects, and Mum was/is
an artist, so perhaps those influences are why I ended up
painting houses as well as pictures.
My paintings are largely abstract, though sometimes
there might be glimpses of figurative or other
representational elements. People often point out the
“things” they see in my paintings, some of which can be
quite surprising.
I have done a lot of life drawing over the years. Even though my paintings are
abstract, with leanings toward landscape, they often start out in the basis of figuration
or even portraiture. It sometimes seems like one painting contains several others
within its layers – a secret life.
The body of work on display at Radius has been developing over two to three
years. Through the time of Covid, and some difficult family losses, it’s been good to
get into the studio, crank up the music and just go for it.
My process usually starts out with blocking in an under-painting using acrylics.
Then I can continue using oil paints and pastels, which allows a more nuanced palette
and composition.
Each painting is different, and ‘speaks’ to me as to what approaches might be
needed as the process develops.
I rarely, if ever, consider my paintings to be ‘finished’. Any one of my paintings is
fair game for a rework as long as I can get my hands on it.
I find exhibiting my work quite nerve-racking – not so much because of other
people’s judgment, but because of my own. I’m so glad to be working with Morgan
and Kim at Radius – they have been longstanding friends and supporters. In fact I
went to kindergarten with Morgan nearly 50 years ago. We hatched a plan at the age
of five to get married…and although an argument over furniture placement put an
end to that, we’ve had a wonderful friendship all these years.”
The exhibition opening is at Radius Gallery on Saturday, November 26 from
3pm-5pm and it runs until December 17.
Opening hours are Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10am to 4pm.

TICKETS are now on sale to more than 50 LGBTQIA+ shows, parties, social and sporting events that will celebrate queer country pride across Daylesford and Hepburn Springs over the Labour
Day long weekend from March 9 – 13, 2023.

Daylesford is home to Victoria’s longest running regional LGBTQIA+ pride festival, ChillOut Festival.
The star-studded rainbow line-up features Australian opera-pop
Eurovision superstar Kate Miller-Heidke, Drag Race Down Under’s
Art Simone, ABC’s sunniest weatherman Nate Byrne, Rainbow History
TikToker Rudy Jean Rigg, as well as Dean Arcuri, Sally Goldner, Jude
Munro, Karen From Finance, Dolly Diamond and Tash York, Tuck
Shop Ladies, Cerulean, Marz, The Lost Girls, Hussy Hicks, Greg
Gould, Brenda Bressed, This Way North, Jude Perl, Parker, Freddie
Merkin, Mz Burn and Runaway Belles.
The festival’s free, family-friendly events will be back with the All
Ages Saturday Sound Shell event, returning after a successful debut in
2022, featuring performances, market stalls, and an intergenerational
panel.
Other free events include Opening Night performances inside the
Town Hall, Friday night Speed Dating, and the famous Daylesford
ChillOut Street Parade on Sunday morning.
This year’s festival will be more accessible for people with
disabilities, with improved facilities and inclusion being front and
centre of programming.
“We are actively seeking out how to use accessibility best practice
across the festival so that people living with a disability can enjoy the
weekend,” said Festival Director Emma Ireland.
Tickets are now on sale at www.chilloutfestival.com.au
Words: Supplied | Image: Michelle Donnelly

RUTH Irving has come a long way. Raised on a farm at Mollongghip,
she is now gracing the front cover of Hepburn House’s latest calendar albeit disGracefully!
Ruth is pictured gleefully giving drivers the bird as she holds up traffic in her
mobility scooter.
The image has gone Australia-wide with publicity for the fundraising calendar
hitting newspapers and television shows – with Tommy Little even paying a visit
recently for a segment on The Project.
Since it aired on November 9, the segment has had 37,000 views and almost
1000 likes. Comments range from “these ladies had me cackling, I want the calendar”
and “brilliantly funny, love the old girls” to “this makes me so happy, this is how
every elderly person in care should be treated, their happiness is beautiful” and
“fabulous residents match the fabulous staff – they are all amazing”. Finishing with
“aged care as it should be, celebrating our elderly”.
But back to Ruth. She is the leading lady here. And already very well known in
her own right around these parts.
Ruth was born in Creswick on July 27, 1928 and has three older brothers, an
older sister, a twin brother, and a younger sister Doris who also lives at Hepburn
House.
Ruth left school at 14 to help out around the farm. She used to help her mother
cook lunch and dinner for the 16 men who worked on the farm. As well as milking
the dairy cows for her mother to make cream and butter, as a teenager, Ruth used
to play tennis to keep active and went dancing with her friends all the time for
entertainment.
Ruth first met Keith at a dance at the Hepburn Palais. They fell in love and
were married in 1955, when Ruth was 26 and Keith was 29. They had three
sons, Raymond, Ross and Allan and a daughter, Christine. They are now proud
grandparents of 10 and great-grandparents of four.
On their farm they mainly grew potatoes, along with oats, wheat and cattle, and
Ruth also had a big veggie garden for the family’s meals.
Now Ruth loves that someone else is cooking up home-style meals for her at
Hepburn House and especially likes not having to do the dishes. She also enjoys the
variety of activities on offer along with bus trips for coffee and cake in the afternoons.
Calendars are available from Hepburn House (weekdays only) and Blooms the
Chemist in Daylesford from Tuesday, November 22. They are $20.
To have a calendar/calendars posted within Australia send contact details, address
and details of purchase to reception@hepburnhouse.com.au

TONIA Todman, well-known television personality, queen of craft and
author feels very lucky with the opportunities she has been given over
a long career.
Nonetheless she has never been one to sit back comfortably and reflect on those
past achievements. Tonia continues to strive forward, pushing into new territories,
projects and endeavours even including becoming a marriage celebrant.
New vocation
“I had never really considered it as a vocation before, but I’ve been told often
enough that I would be good at it,” Tonia says. “I’ve never thought that I would be
an expert on marriage, but when I investigated the course which is very concentrated
with a lot of legal studies in it, I thought, ‘this could be fun’. I’ll be learning things
that I didn’t know.”
Tonia has always had a desire to learn, expand her knowledge and pass on
that knowledge wherever possible, be it as a marriage celebrant or embarking on a
horticultural degree.
She knows that maintaining this drive as one advances in years is an important
aspect of ageing well. And Tonia has never been one to stall in the face of adversity including the monumental task of rebuilding her historic Lauriston home after a
devastating fire in 2018.
Challenges
For her, such setbacks are simply another challenge to be addressed and overcome.
From her youth growing up in 1960s Melbourne to forging a career in magazine
publishing and television, she has always been an exception to the norm.
“I’m of an era where women were not expected to have a career. We were always
brought up to be good wives and mothers. To be able to run a home, take our place
in society and bring up children. As I’ve always said there is nothing wrong with that
at all. I was very fortunate that I could combine that and a career that blended very
well with my natural instincts towards home making, fashion, DIY and craft. I have
been very lucky in the work I’ve done.”
Publishing
Tonia’s reflections on her life is now to be the subject of her next book. There is
no publishing date as yet, but as the author of 28 books, the question is not if this
work will see the light of day, but when.
“It is a family history combined with the experiences of my working career. It has
been very interesting recalling a lot of things, looking back over family photos and
resurrecting a few things I had nearly forgotten.”
Of course many people, who fondly remember her regular appearances on
lifestyle shows such as Creative Living, Healthy Wealthy and Wise and Good Morning
Australia, would be very keen to see Tonia back on the screen. Despite disruptions
caused by Covid, there is a new project in the works very close to Tonia’s heart, one
she would dearly like to come to fruition.
Television return
“I would love to get back on television,” she says. “Before Covid I was working on
a program with a working title of Grandma Tonia. It’s me teaching children the basics
of life. Because of the distraction of social media screen time, I think there are an
awful lot of skills that are now not being passed on to children that should be. Things
like growing, building, fixing something or simply being practical.”
16 Our people
Above, television personality and writer Tonia Todman has added marriage
celebrant to her extensive CV.
Words: Tony Sawrey | Image: Contributed

RURAL Australians for Refugees Daylesford – the group perhaps best
known for its “toots for refugees” vigil at the top roundabout in
Daylesford every Friday from 5pm – is finishing up in January after
20 years of supporting refugees detained around Australia and beyond.
Long-time member Janet Gaden said the decision came after the active group
numbers had dwindled to about 10 – despite an email list of 40.
“The stalwarts are getting older and less well and are, frankly, tired. We started
RARD 20 years ago and have been very active all that time.
“Our struggle to get Australia to deal humanely, legally and generously toward
people who approach us for help as asylum seekers and refugees has been a long haul.
“The change of (federal) government, with some better policies, is an advance,
but even they cannot make a quick fix to this problem and will need support
and reminding. The number of people on various restrictive visas needing aid is
increasing. It is still a long haul.
“Twenty is a good round number of years. After our last vigil on Friday, January
6, 2023 (5-5.30, top of Vincent Street) Rural Australians for Refugees Daylesford will
go into honourable retirement.”

Ms Gaden said RARD began in 2002, holding regular meetings with bring-a-plate suppers at St Matthews, Hepburn that were well attended and run by Rosalind Berry.
“Members repeatedly visited detainees in Baxter, Port Hedland and Maribyrnong,
taking crocheted blankets, snacks and small gifts. We kept in touch with some people
after their release.”
Ms Gaden said the group had raised money in many ways and through various
channels.
First up were two art exhibitions with a silent auction with small canvases bought
in bulk.
“The first was works by local people and the second by invitation to people well
known in other fields such as Phillip Adams, Fay White, Emma Ayres, and others.
We raised money for the new Asylum Seeker Resource Centre in Melbourne – where
we also took donations of food.
“And every year we have held street stalls during Christmas and Refugee Week for
20 years with petitions and postcards sent to politicians, raffles and items for sale to
raise money and books of messages sent to asylum seekers.
“We also sent shoe boxes of small gifts for children through the ASRC to
detention centres at Christmas Island, Nauru, Manus, Papua New Guinea.”
More events
Ms Gaden said larger events included a Daylesford Town Hall meeting with
Labor for Refugees with speakers including Julian Burnside, Labor politicians,
activists and journalists.
Other events were a concert by refugee musicians in Daylesford’s Senior Citizens
Rooms, a town hall event with Arnold Zable, film nights, Actors for Refugees
performances in Words in Winter and a campaign to get Hepburn Shire Council to
declare the shire a Refugee Welcome Zone which was passed by the council in 2005.
Other events included a commemorative tree with plaque in the Lost Children’s
Park, an ASRC Food Box in the foyer of town hall, letter writing bees in Stanbridge
Hall and picnics at Jubilee Lake for refugees brought from Melbourne by ASRC.
The group took part in the New Year’s Eve and Chillout parades in Daylesford
with Peter Tyndall’s “Trucking on”, a tiny RARD truck, in the virtual parade during
lockdown.
The last major event was a street stall for the 2022 Refugee Week.
Contribute
Ms Gaden said anyone who wanted to contribute to the work ahead should
contact active groups in Trentham at rartrentham@gmail.com and Ballarat at
rarballarat@gmail.com
People can contribute financially, as RARD has done, to the ASRC, Rural
Australians for Refugees national (RAR), and Refugee Legal, through their websites.
Words: Contributed | Images: Kyle Barnes

After a two-year break and a ton of work by a very small but very
dedicated committee the Daylesford Show is scheduled to return today, November 26 at the Daylesford Showgrounds in Victoria Park.
President Don Harvey, pictured centre with his volunteers, said there were
some advantages in being late in the calendar and the showgrounds being in one
of the higher spots in town but “we are still looking for good weather”.
“So far this year over 40 shows have been forced to cancel by the rain and
flooding but fingers crossed. We have two inspections with Hepburn Shire
Council officers next week and the main concerns will be the sure footing of the
horses in the showjumping and spots around the oval and the amusement area.”
Don said the committee was holding a working bee last weekend to
continue the refurbishing of the Tom Ford Pavilion and looked forward to
having it as the main centre for the young people’s activities with the junior art
and craft displays with an opportunity for creative activities inside the pavilion
early on the day. The Youth Rocks bands will take over in the pavilion, with the
support of the Hepburn Shire crew from about midday. Outside the pavilion
will be Parker’s Mini Circus, Professor Wallace’s Puppet Theatre, The Rescue
Ferretts and free petting zoo, races with prizes and playdoh making for the
littlies.
“The short formalities will be even shorter this year as our local politicians
will be otherwise occupied but the new Mayor Cr Brian Hood will officially
declare the show open and introduce the Daylesford & District Brass Band just
after noon.
“Horse, sheep, goat and poultry judging will be going on all morning but
the homecrafts, cooking and needlework and photography displays in the footy
pavilion will have been judged on the Friday and be open from 9am.
“The Table Tennis Pavilion will once again be transformed to the Hall of
Flowers with the Daylesford Horticultural Society and Friends of Wombat Hill
Botanic Gardens mounting displays alongside the flowers and farm produce.
“We are hoping to see some decorated wheelbarrows and flowers in boots as
well. If enough people would like to bring a decorated wheelbarrow in on the
day I may donate a $50 voucher for the People’s Choice.
“Our dog show at the soccer ground end and behind the poultry pavilion
will again be a highlight. We had about 400 dogs shown in 2019 but, like in
everything else we are not sure how many we will have this year, they will be
well worth a look and who doesn’t like seeing the finalists paraded before the
judges, with dogs and owners in their finest.”
Don said the show was in its 148th year, held at Victoria Park since WWII.
“Let’s hope that we pass the Hepburn Shire test and the weather holds up
and we have another great show.”
Don said he wanted to thank his very hardworking committee members
and not just the two major sponsors, Daylesford District Community Bank
and Hygge Property Group, but every sponsor and everybody who had entered
something to be judged – and everybody who comes to the show on the day.

A MINING company granted an exploratory license for gold mining
in May this year, has identified the Daylesford region as “highly
prospective but well underexplored in terms of the modern
exploration environment”.
Red Rock Australasia is exploring the old Ajax line, under the name Blue Angel
Project, in the western area of the town.
A company report written in July this year said the Ajax line “has a long and
productive history of gold production and is reported to have produced over 300,000
ounces from its start in the mid-1880s to final closure around the 1940s”.
“The line of workings at Ajax falls outside the township and largely within Crown
land providing opportunity of better access to the area. To date insufficient drilling
has been conducted to allow any formal assessment of any remaining potential ore
however the detail provided in the reports on historical mining along with old mine
plans and stope plans gives strong indication of ore continuing at depth, both down
dip and along strike.”
The report says with the Ajax line close to places such as the Boomerang Holiday
Ranch, “aside from the obvious controls on hours of operation for drilling and the
usual suppression of noise, dust and control for all fluids on site, other community
activities may impact upon the timing”.
“This may include environmental concerns over flora and fauna seasonality
breeding or growing. Given the community has a large transient and rental
population, many locally organised events will bring large visitor numbers to the
township and this will impact upon operations.
“Regardless, the intention is to look to validate and if possible upgrade the
exploration targets to a higher level of confidence late in 2022. The targets are
considered to be at a low level of confidence and will remain so until drilling has been
completed.”
Hepburn Shire Council CEO Bradley Thomas, in response to questions from
The Local, said the proposed works were exploration works “and (the) council has no
control over this or ability to intervene as it is managed and governed by the state
government through the Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions”.
“Council has had an introductory meeting with Red Rock Mining and raised
a number of concerns, including emphasising the need to engage with the local
community.”
Deputy Mayor and Birch Ward councillor Lesley Hewitt said she understood Red
Rock Australasia had met with residents who may be impacted and there was some
concern about the impact, particularly on groundwater.
“Council officers met last week with Red Rock and we will continue to monitor
this in line with our legislated responsibilities and keep the community informed.”
Red Rock Australasia community and environmental liaison spokesperson Kiara
Reddingius said the company’s philosophy was to engage as early as possible, “to
make ourselves known and available in an area we could be interested in well before
we begin any on the ground studies”.
“We have made contact with the Hepburn Shire since before our licence was
granted. Once granted (May 2022), traditional owners and land managers across the
shire were contacted and introductory meetings arranged, so the company could be
known for any future enquiries and planning.
“Our community and environmental policy, along with many other resources are
available on our website, which explains our process on how we identify and consult
stakeholders.”
A Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions spokesperson said exploration
licence applications were advertised locally for community input and objections. The
granting of a licence requires companies to engage with the community.
The application was advertised last year in The Herald Sun and Ballarat Courier.

Image: Ballarat Heritage Services Picture Collection | Words: Donna Kelly

DAYLESFORD Community Op Shop team
leader Sharon Michels is proud to say that
every cent raised from sales at the Mink
Street shop goes back into the community.
And there’s a lot more going on than just sorting out
donated goods and helping people with their bargain
shopping.
Sharon, who has been volunteering herself for four
years, says the group does everything from helping out with school fetes and finding
places for those facing homelessness, to giving a helping hand to pensioners, swags for
those living rough and even providing nighties for some of the nursing homes.
“We really do a lot of stuff behind the scenes,” she said. “For example, the other
night I dropped off some heaters for some clients who were cold and had nothing to
keep them warm. I will be dropping off some kitchenware for another client today.”
Sharon said sometimes the shop was just a place for people to pop into for a chat
and a cuppa.
“A lot of people come in for a chat, perhaps they are a bit lonely, or just on their
way past. We are not just a shop, we are like a big family.
“And then we have our regulars who come in every week for a chat and a cuppa
or even a hug, or maybe a cry. Sometimes you just need to see someone in person.”
The op shop has about 15 volunteers and not all are involved in the shopfront or
there during open hours. They might be folding clothes or linen or cleaning goods
ready for sale.
“The most important thing is to take time with our customers – having a laugh
and a chat is equally important. Locals shop here because of the staff and the bargains
while the tourists say it’s the best op shop they have ever been to.
“And it’s the ultimate in recycling. Nothing goes to waste. We even cut the
buttons off clothing that we can’t sell, and have people who collect old metal from us.
“Even when something that is rusty comes in and you think that won’t sell, an
artist will come in and think it is perfect for a project. Rusty old pots, pans and
cutlery make great windchimes.
“And we have a waiting list book, so if we don’t have what you want, you can put
your name down and we will give you a call when we get it in. That’s service.”
Check the shop out on Facebook.

The Hepburn Wildlife Shelter is extending a big thankyou to all of “the wonderful volunteers who have worked, and continue to work, with such commitment and passion to help
the local wildlife” ahead of a special volunteer recruitment afternoon in Daylesford.

A spokesperson with the shelter says:

“Over the twenty years that the Shelter has being
operating we have had many dozens of people work at the shelter,
sometimes for a few months and sometimes for many years. We
have had the privilege of meeting and working with people that
we otherwise would not have met in our daily lives.

“Volunteering at the shelter can bring you closer to wildlife, but
let’s face it, there is little glamour in picking up poo and cleaning
cages.

“External rewards and accolades are scarce, but personal
satisfaction and impact are high. Many volunteers who work with
the wildlife express feelings of revelation and new connections.
The wildlife shelter would not be here for the local wildlife but for
the reliability and compassion of a few people within our community.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to all of you, past and
present.

“We are now recruiting new volunteers.

Where: Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre
On: Saturday 17 December
From: 1pm to 3pm

“Everyone is welcome and bring a friend.
You can register your interest on our Facebook page, send us a message, or just turn up!”

The hand-written blackboard menu of Daylesford’s 5000 Club reads like an
upmarket cafe.

There’s soup, a meat and a vegetarian main with a choice of vegies
or salad and an array of tempting desserts. The dining room buzzes with the sound
of clinking cutlery and friendly conversation accompanied by pleasant background
music. The only difference is, there’s no bill to pay at the end.
The 5000 Club was founded in 2011 by local community dynamo Loretta Little
and provides a free three-course meal every Friday from 12 noon to 1pm. It takes its
name from the biblical story of the loaves and the fishes (feeding the 5000).

Volunteer Sandy Breen says the club certainly knows how to make a little go a long way.
“I like to say that we are ‘little and mighty’, which is a play on our founder’s
name. Loretta has been the driving force. Before moving to Daylesford she had been
involved with the Sacred Heart Mission in Melbourne and she saw a similar need
when she moved here.

Daylesford is seen as an affluent area but there are people here
doing it tough and she was determined to make a difference by starting the lunch
club.”

Each week up to a dozen dedicated volunteers gather at the Victoria Park Pavilion
to prepare meals for around 30 guests. While some of the ‘vollies’ peel, chop and stir,
others spread colourful tablecloths and arrange vases of flowers to adorn the tables.
Sandy said the group was also fortunate to have the services of a professional chef
and the guests were very grateful for her delicious offerings.

Sandy uses her own skills as a graphic designer to write up the weekly menu board
and together with several other volunteers, they create wonderful desserts each week.
The atmosphere is very bright and welcoming so it feels just like going to lunch at a
lovely cafe.

“All our guests are provided with name tags to make it easier to get to know the
volunteers and each other. It is as much about developing friendships as providing a
hearty meal. Several of our guests have commented that after a 5000 Club lunch, they
only need a snack for their evening meal,” Sandy said.

The club does not have a permanent source of income but relies on occasional
community grants provided by the likes of the Community Bank Daylesford
District (Bendigo Bank), the Hepburn Shire Council and Daylesford Rotary.
Other fundraising activities include the meat tray raffle at the Farmers Arms Hotel
Daylesford and other such initiatives.

“We are also supported by several local businesses and we cannot thank them
enough for their generosity. They include Wombat Hill Florists, Bakers Delight, The
Daylesford Meat Company, The Local, Daylesford & Hepburn Mineral Springs Co,
Coles Daylesford and Second Bite.

In addition, our guests make donations when they can. It is not compulsory but they might donate $5 or $10 or whatever they can
afford because they are very appreciative of our efforts,” Sandy said.
Regular Friday lunch-goer Jean Marc is glowing in his appraisal of the club. He
moved to Daylesford two years ago during the Covid lockdown period which limited
the places he could go to meet new people.
The 5000 Club re-opened in February this year after a two year recess due to the
lockdowns. Jean Marc became aware of it through a friend and came along expecting
a ‘soup kitchen’ style operation.

“I was pleasantly surprised,” he said. “Not only by the quality of the food and the amazing service, but I was also able to meet new friends and re-connect with some old ones. Meeting for lunch at the 5000 Club each week has become an important part of my life from a community aspect. And I am
sure I speak for many other attendees when I say we are always made to feel welcome
and included and none of it would be possible without the fabulous volunteers. They
are the heartbeat of the club and it simply could not operate without them…and their
smiles are for free!”
“As we near the end of 2022 (in many ways, good riddance) the club is preparing
for our traditional Christmas Lunch on December 16. We will then take a festive
season break and will resume again late in January 2023,” Sandy said.
“We welcome new volunteers. If you are interested we’d love to hear from you. Contact Loretta Little on 0439 364 857.”
For more information follow the 5000 Club on Facebook.

Trentham Twilight Night happens tonight Friday, November 25 with businesses and market stalls ready to help shoppers get their Christmas list sorted.
But wait, there’s more. And lots of people donating their time to make sure the
night runs perfectly for everyone where they are into shopping, music or food.
From 4.30pm there will be a line-up of musical performances from people of all
ages. Five Trentham Primary School performers will be taking to the stage including
a harp duo; The Fairy Wrens, pictured, Trentham Primary School Band, Trentham
Primary School Choir, Flynn & the Dusty’s, and Forever G’s. These little people pack
some talented pipes and know how to get the crowd bopping.
Then there are the three high school performances with the Trentham Trio,
pictured inset, playing at Chaplin’s at 5pm, before providing backing music for the
school choir later in the evening.
After hearing a few words from newly elected Mayor Cr Brian Hood, Elysium
and Seventh Circle will each take to the stage and turn on the outstanding rock
routines they have become well known for, until the event comes to a close.
The stage will be located in the Trentham Square with all the latest sound
equipment for a really impressive show. Trentham is Cool Country so bring a picnic
blanket or a chair, maybe an extra blanket, food from the street and kick back and
enjoy.
Also joining the performance line-up are The Singing Sisterhood, Two Gals & a
Piano, and Di Moore. There will be something for everyone to get their groove on.
For the littlies, there is a 12 Days of Christmas-themed wombat scavenger hunt,
with wombats hidden in 12 windows on High and Market streets and J.Reid Lane.
Those who complete the hunt and drop off their sheets at Trentham Square walk
away with a goodie bag.
And don’t forget the man of the moment himself, Santa, who will be in the
photo booth with his helper elf. See tonight you at Trentham Twilight Night

Daylesford’s Riding for the Disabled is always looking for volunteers – and
loves those it already has.
Spokesperson Lesley said Daylesford RDA had started in 1996 and was now
celebrating 26 years of providing riding techniques for both children and adults with
disabilities – physical, intellectual and sensory.
“Our horse riding is based on English riding techniques and we have had people,
mostly from Hepburn Shire, aged from three to a person aged 70,” she said.
Now operating out of Boomerang Ranch, Lesley said training with both the
horses and the different disabilities catered for was provided so experience was
not needed, although anyone who had worked with either horses or people with
disabilities was always welcome.
“Mainly we are looking for people who are committed, reliable and empathetic –
there are also some volunteer positions which just involve fund-raising or cleaning out
stables. Or perhaps helping out at one of the four competitions we hold each year.”
Along with a good mindset, Lesley said volunteers also needed a certain level of
fitness, being able to walk in the outdoors over uneven terrain and stay on their feet
for three to four hours.
“People also need a Working with Children Check but we can help them with
that. It is also just a lot of fun.”
Volunteer James Foster, pictured bottom left, said he saw a story in The Local, a
year back about the RDA looking for volunteers.
“I really had no idea what to expect, but I had been wanting to get involved in
something for a while so I thought it might be fun,” he said.
“And the experience has turned out to be even better than I imagined. I came in
with a new batch of volunteers and most of us are still there. It’s a great group and
lots of fun, but more importantly you can see the difference it makes to the people
who come and ride.
“You can see the satisfaction, joy, and a sense of achievement through the new
skills they learn when riding. I think riding each week boosts their happiness and
wellbeing and helps support people to try something different.
“Anyone thinking of volunteering should think about the RDA. You learn new
skills in how to saddle and handle a horse, it’s a lot of fun, gets you out of the house
every Friday afternoon, it’s a great bunch of people you work with, and you get the
occasional horse ride as well.”
Lesley said most of all, once people decided it was for them, they needed to
commit to attending most Friday afternoons.
“Our riders get used to working with particular people so we really do need
people who can come fairly regularly.
“It’s also great being in a smaller RDA like Daylesford. I was in a suburban RDA
and I prefer here because you actually get to know the riders and their families a lot
more and understand how what you do at riding can impact on their lives at school
or outside of that. It really is rewarding to hear and see how people can change from
riding.
“It is much more wholistic here and while it is not for everyone, like all sports and
recreational activities, the people who do like it, tend to love it. They get a lot out of
it.”
For more information or to take part in the training contact Lesley on 0407 843928.
Loving our volunteers!