GREAT news that the Daylesford Field & Game Club can return to its home at Glenlyon Reserve.

Mind you, it’s taken three years of expensive tests after concerns were raised about lead contamination to find out the risk is “low and acceptable”.
Not sure who had the first concerns. Maybe someone new who moved into the area and didn’t like hearing gun shots once a month for a few hours? Maybe someone who had been around for a while and had grown tired of hearing gun shots once a month for a few hours.
We moved to Glenlyon 17 years ago and quite liked being woken up that first Saturday morning by shots being fired. How quaint and country, we thought. After all, when you hear gun shots when you are living in Frankston, someone is having a bad day.
And over the years we have done a few stories and photos of the club members, some of whom have competed internationally and done really well. So I felt quite sad when the signs went up in 2019 saying you couldn’t enter certain areas and lots of our bush walks were cordoned off. Of course, we could walk under the tape, but it also meant it wasn’t getting mown any more, and you know, summer and snakes.
Anyway, I hope they come back soon and we wake to the “serenity” knowing that a group of enthusiasts have their sport back. Oh, the cost of the reports so far is $275,535. That’s a lot but not as much as Kyle had told me but he has been known to embellish the truth. Really Kyle, WORDLE, in one out of six on the same day as me? I think not…
Still with the council and I am confused. That’s not hard though.
Anyway, I thought The Rex building was for sale after the council decided not to proceed with the Hepburn Hub idea in November last year.
And helping with my thought process, in early April this year Mayor Cr Tim Drylie told The Local that, in accordance with the Local Government Act, the November 2021 motion to cease the Hepburn Hub project and sell The Rex building could not be rescinded “as officers have commenced actioning it”.
Yet, the council on April 27 issued a media release with Cr Drylie saying the council wants to “consider community views before ultimately deciding to proceed or not with the sale”.
“While at this point, we don’t see a clear purpose for retaining The Rex, given the lack of finances to undertake any works at the site, if there is strong community support for using The Rex for a worthwhile and suitable purpose, we may be open to exploring alternate ideas,” Cr Drylie said.
So maybe keep The Rex?
But when I suggested that was a backflip, Cr Drylie said “the engagement launched refers to community engagement in relation to the sale”.
“The November motion of council cannot be rescinded because it has been enacted on in accordance with the Local Government Act. The motion ceased the Hepburn Hub project (Council offices, library, cinema and co-working space).
“Council in November asked the CEO to undertake a process to sell the asset (The Rex building), and as part of this process community consultation on the sale needs to occur. This is not a backflip on any previous decision, but a requirement of the Local Government Act to undertake community engagement given the proposed sale.”
So sell?
But then: “Council will consider, following the community consultation, whether to proceed with the sale of the building or not at the June or July meeting.”
So maybe keep? Told you I was confused.
Finally, I read that Neighbours is coming to an end and Kylie Minogue and Jason Donovan will be making an appearance on the last episode.
I haven’t heard yet, but I do expect a call soon, for my final appearance. Not many people know but I was on Neighbours. Yep, about 30 years ago. A friend from the UK had turned up and all he wanted to do was to head to Pin Oak Court in Vermont South aka Ramsay Street. So we arrived, wandered around and then watched as everyone turned up to start filming. Street barricades were set up but we were inside them, if you know what I mean. We even met Bouncer.
About six months later, Paul called from London to say he had just watched an episode which included us wandering across the court. Not bad. No audition and obviously we looked very natural. If I get the call, I’ll let you know. Just sayin’…

St Andrews Uniting Church Creswick celebrated meaningful and thought-provoking worship services during Holy Week and Easter Day. Reverend Rosemary Carter led these services with input and planning from some congregation members.

The first worship was a Tenebrae service, remembering the final hours of Jesus’ life. We were each given a plate of sampled Passover food, a Seder Plate that gave meaning to the suffering and struggles of the Jewish people. The service concluded in darkness and silence.
The Good Friday service held at Clunes was a reflective service on the crucifixion. An Ecumenical walk followed by the Stations of the Cross concluded with hot cross buns to sustain us.
Easter Day started with a dawn service at 6.30am at St Georges Lake. We gathered around a welcoming fire, an empty cross and joy in our hearts as we shared a breakfast of fish just as the risen Jesus did with his friends.
The Easter Service back at St Andrews was a happy relaxed time, with a large group of visitors from Melbourne joining us in the Flowering of the Cross. Three women told of their surprise and excitement when they saw the empty tomb and knew the truth that Jesus had risen. The flowering of an old rugged cross symbolised new life and joy.

• Joan Sargeant and Shirley Symes

The dreamy month of April has come to a close and we find ourselves moving into a more action-oriented time. With expansive Jupiter and energizing Mars moving into the pro-active sign of Aries this month, there are topics in your life that might get a boost, or you have the ability to level up in some way. Fair Venus has moved into fast-paced Aries as well, we all need to mind our impulse spending for the next few weeks. Mischievous Mercury turns retrograde from May 10^th, a phenomenon that gives the illusion that this planet is moving backwards across the sky. In fact, it’s due to our point of view from Earth and the orbital cycle of Mercury that bring about this effect three to four times a year. It’s a time to reassess, reconnect, reunite, or revisit certain areas of our lives. It is commonly known for causing technology glitches, miscommunications, and misunderstandings but I find it great for wrapping up any projects that have been languishing on my desk. The second Eclipse (they always happen in pairs) takes place on May 17^th and can be a continuation of the stories that have been kicking around since last month. Read on to see how you might harness the power of the planets.  If you know your rising sign, start there first.

Aries:

You are more endearing and likable than usual until the end of the month, magnetic even. There could be opportunities to attract helpful or influential people to you at this time. You could have the ability to manifest something new for yourself in May. Money matters are in the spotlight, with fresh opportunities to earn money or boost your resources. There might be a re-discovering of talents or going back to re-learn information with fresh eyes.  Indulge in a little pampering this month, eat, drink and be merry!

Taurus:

Another busy month on the books for you, plenty of opportunity for fresh starts, or some new projects out in your community. This is a great time to consider what you would like to go after and how or who you would like to partner with to bring your visions to fruition. This fortnight window is a time to nourish yourself with your personal brand self-care and some mental stimulation. You will need to find the balance between looking after yourself and the needs of others at this time. May the odds be ever in your favour.

Gemini:

A little personal retreat before your birthday (if you’re a Gemini Sun) might be on the agenda, especially if you’ve been feeling a little lack lustre. You might find yourself with a lot on your mind, and even more to say. Social gatherings of all sorts can be more rewarding in May, career networking and even social media can be fulfilling for you. Try to avoid the over-sharing that you might be prone to, especially with Mercury retrograde. This is not a great time to volunteer as anyone’s secret keeper. If you’ve ever hoped that a friendship turns into “something more” this might be your time.

Cancer:

There is a warm light shining on your friendships, a time to reach out and join up with people that share similar interests and values. This can also be a call to let go of associations that no longer enrich your life, make some room for new people. You might be soon receiving accolades at work, if so, celebrate!  If this doesn’t sound like you remember to aim high, think big and expand what you think is possible for yourself. Lean into what you love and are passionate about, and success will be hot on your heels.

Leo:

You might be feeling ambitious at work this month, try to find a way to delegate and step into more of a leadership role (you’re a Leo, you love being the boss). Do your best to make some plans and goals, both long term and short term. Analyse where your past might be holding you back and how can you change these patterns. Opportunities to travel abroad, write a large body of work or to just have an adventure are coming your way. Any ways that you can expand your world, inner or outer can bring you some big light bulb moments.

Virgo:

This is a time of year to engage in deep conversations and open yourself up to new ideas, by the end you might find yourself transformed. You might be having a crisis of faith, asking a lot of deep internal questions and perhaps over-analysing, it’s a favoured past time for you. It might be time to pivot, make a big change, those connecting conversations with others might help you mull everything over and talk your way to a conclusion. On a lighter note, there might be opportunities to make some big-ticket purchases, but also taking on a debt like a car loan or mortgage.

Libra:

The month of May might not be one that’s for the good books.  Keep in mind the mantra “this too shall pass” and if you aren’t feeling the joy, it will hopefully be around the next corner for you. This is a great time for a clear out of some of your possessions, if your life is feeling too cluttered. On the upswing, if you’re in a relationship, it’s a great time to take a mini break with your love, you’ll really enjoy each other’s company right now.  If you’re looking for love, some prospects are sure to pop up in the immediate future. Also consider taking the Mercury retrograde to reassess or review your insurance policies, taxes, and investments.

Scorpio:

May sees a month where your closest relationships are in the spotlight, a time to take the pulse and evaluate, a little triage might be called for. Are you able to shine as bright as you like or are you dulling your sparkle to avoid blinding the other person? Finding equality, harmony, and balance can be a soothing balm for discordant situations. Overindulgences need to be kept in check right now, a balance needs to be found with your health routine, you’ll be more likely to swing to one extreme or the other, kale juice or creamy carbs. Hot tip: if you replace potato chips with grapefruit as a snack, you can lose up to 90% of the joy you have in life.  

Sagittarius:

Appreciation can be a key to happiness, a little gratitude daily practice can help with the drudgery of your daily chores. Acts of compassion, sacrifice and serving others are in focus for you, fulfilling even. Looking to ways that you can serve others and take pride in it, even if it is a simple mundane task. On the other side of the coin, this time ushers in fun, creativity, joy and a little romance. Be daring, try your hand at a new craft or hobby, don’t be afraid to show people what you’re capable of, even if you don’t think it’s chef’s kiss perfection.

Capricorn:

Are you chasing your dreams with your whole heart Capricorn? It’s so easy to get caught up in the mundane that we forget to take stock of lives and change course if we aren’t moving in a direction that fills us up. There might be an urge to fit in with the crowd and blend in rather than standing apart. Finding joy with your family and spending more time at home might be a place to let your heart expand. Your home is a reflection of your wellbeing, fill it with beautiful things and the people that help your heart soar.

Aquarius:

In The Wizard of Oz, all Dorothy wanted to do was get home to Kansas and (spoiler alert) she found that she had that power all along. Home and family might be feeling a little unsettled right now but home isn’t always a physical place, it resides internally too. Turning inwards to centre ourselves can help in turbulent times, make your internal home a beautiful, calm place to return to. In the outer world, your powers of persuasion are strong, you have the gift of the gab this month. May is a good time to have an adventure with your siblings or to mend fences if they are broken.

Pisces:

The old proverbs about mind over matter and thoughts become things, are coming up until the end of May.  Make resolutions, get curious and find some affirmations that speak to you. Opportunities to earn more money are headed your way, but you might spend it as quickly as you earn it. Which isn’t always a bad thing, it has the possibility to bring you great joy, maybe that piece of artwork that you’ve had your eye on find it’s way onto your wall. Nothing wrong with that, the right piece can be a great investment!

In the nocturnal stillness before dawn.
We didn’t know what we would experience on Easter morn.
“Gather at the lake” we were told, “Be there at 6.30am”
Briefly consider giving it a miss,
bed was comfortable and there was always a later service.
Make a hot drink and grab a warm coat.
Travelling on the road silhouettes of trees began to appear
on the Brackenbury ridge;
must stop and take a photo, and stop again,
dawn was coming fast,
quickly though, or you’ll miss the sunrise at the lake.
Folk spilling down to the lake shore
with chairs and coats and picnic baskets,
greeting one another;
anticipation and excitement in the air.
A solo figure glides across the water,
a black swan;
I don’t remember often seeing swans here
and think about exception, place and belonging.
A fire is lit,
and we gather around to tell the resurrection story,
dawn has broken,
and a beautiful glow is over the lake
and arching across the sky.
High above a flock of black cockatoos call out
heading west,
I count them;
I feel reassured at their presence.
A gusty wind blows scattering sparks and embers,
a little murmur is heard,
“better stamp out those embers”
some of us watchful.
A bystander greets us,
comments in a humorous way about their expectation,
when recognising, from a distance, a gathering of Christians,
they expected to hear familiar words,
an old familiar tune being sung.
When the scripture is read,
the prayers said
the time of reflection had,
an ageless pastime is enjoyed,
a shared meal,
barbequed by the lake,
prepared by friends toiling together.
The night melted into familiar shapes,
the sky lit rosy,
nature’s power soared above,
fire sparked,
prayers joined ancient prayers,
gusting wind awoke hope,
water of change lapped the shore,
gathered community greeted Christ risen.

By the lake (A reflection by Alison Andrews)

THE Daylesford Field & Game Club can finally return to its home at the Glenlyon Reserve after three years now a final report has found the risk of soil contamination is “low and acceptable”.

The news comes three years after concerns were raised over potential lead contamination, possibly caused by clay target shooting, and an initial assessment found elevated levels of lead and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in the reserve.
The Daylesford Field & Game Club, which has operated out of Glenlyon for 43 years, was told to stop using the reserve at the start of 2020.
However a final report presented to Hepburn Shire Council this year has found “the extent and severity of soil contamination is less than indicated in the preliminary assessment” and “no further risk assessment, remedial actions or further management controls are required for the site based on its use as a recreational reserve”.
The total costs, for the council, of the work needed for the reports and works to date is $275,535.
Club secretary Colin Johns, pictured, said once a few fences were repaired, club members were looking forward to their first shoot in a couple of months.
“I have had a lot of calls over the past few days from members who are fairly keen to get back into it but we also have to do a bit of rebuilding of the club. It’s been three years and some people were almost ready to give it away, but they are pretty keen to get back now.”
Mr Johns, who has competed at state, Australian and international levels, said the majority of people living around Glenlyon had been very supportive. “I think we are actually more welcome than we had thought.”
Mr Johns said the club would love new members and had already been talking to new Glenlyon residents who were shooters and “dead keen” to get going.
Anyone interested in joining the club can contact Mr Johns on 0427 530 559 or vice president Jody Wallace on 0417 592 952.

CHRIST Church Anglican Daylesford has launched an appeal to raise money to help those affected by the war in Ukraine.

Spokesperson Frank Page said the unfolding war in Ukraine, and especially the extreme suffering of the Ukrainian people, had shocked everyone.
“After one month more than 11 million people have been forced from their homes. At this distance we all feel helpless and struggle to know how we can help,” Mr Page said.
“The parish has reached out to the Anglican Diocese in Europe of which Ukraine is part and where there is an Anglican parish in Kyiv. Given the nature of the war the need for relief and support will be ongoing. Our Daylesford parish will conduct an ongoing appeal for Ukraine which will be channelled to the Anglican Diocese in Europe to support their appeal.”
Mr Page said the appeal was focused on three groups; the chaplaincies in the immediate border areas of Ukraine, in places like Poland and Hungary, working with individuals and families providing help, shelter, money and counselling.
“As we know from news reports large volumes of Ukrainian refugees are entering these countries. Chaplaincies further afield will also be supported as refugees head further west and this is in addition to large number of refugees from Africa, the Middle East and other places who were already in these countries. Thirdly they are working with projects in Ukraine in partnership with Caritas Internationalis and the Lutheran World Foundation.”
Mr Page said anyone could leave a donation at the church during services or donate to the church’s Ukraine Appeal account. Account name: Anglican Parish of Daylesford, BSB: 633 000, Account: 165242702, Reference: Ukraine Appeal.

WHO would guess that to some people big storms and bushfires are almost welcome? The measured pleasure they get is because these disasters may laying bare secrets tucked away in the bush, such as century old timber-getting tramways in the Wombat state forest.

Nature’s archaeologists  helped uncover some of the tramways that stretched for about the same distance as the return journey from Daylesford to Ballarat. Their hiding places and burial spots are being recorded by researchers such as historian Norman Houghton and local enthusiast David Endacott.

Surprisingly, the first primitive sawmills began not long after gold was found in 1851. Sturdy horses pulled loads of logs along a spider’s web of tramlines to mills and then to market.

Within four years, as the gold rush roared on, deeper and more complex mines were needed, so hewn and split timber was called for to line shafts, fire boilers, provide sleepers and more. This meant felling masses of trees with axe and saw, including a giant at Dean with a 11.2-metre circumference at the bottom, tapering to five metres at the top.

To show some of the evidence of those hectic times, Houghton and Endacott take The Local from Bullarto four kilometres along a maze of tracks where they enthusiastically point out an apparently rare sight of two tracks joining. Nearby, more tracks sunk in the scrub lead to the Lerderderg River.

Proof of a link from the road to Glenlyon to the river is offered by a long, hollowed gully.

“Magnificent,” says 73-year-old Houghton, who has written a history book a year since 1974, a total of 42 books. He is praising the dank and sodden undergrowth, which reveals more clues as the sun breaks through.

A cutting slopes down, banking sharply into Sardine Creek, which bubbles down to the Lerderderg River. So down we go to a massive fallen tree, a victim of the tremendous storm in June last year that revealed so much. Astonishingly, we also come across 120-year-old timber tracks still intact.

We find out about James Henry Wheeler, a big operator whose Sardine Mill on Wild Dog Creek ran a tramline to the Bullarto South, Coliban and Kangaroo lines. Wild Dog Creek was known for its steepness, but until the storm was hidden in impenetrable two metre high wiregrass. This was a find by 76-year-old Endacott, whose other specialty is handmade tools.

Wheeler started sawmilling near Vaughan Springs about 1854, then moved to Porcupine Ridge and on into the Wombat state rorest. His self-promotion would be unlikely to be celebrated today: elected to the state parliament in 1864, he resigned three years later but was back for a further 20 years in 1880. Becoming Minister for Railways, he was able to ensure his timber got to market.

Timber-getting in the bush had its dangers. Houghton, of Geelong, who received the Order of Australia for his histories, tells of an engine driver who kept putting on fuel to get up steam, not noticing a pipe connected to the boiler had been blown out of place. Just in time he saw there was no water in a glass indicator and extinguished the fire.

A young boy, whose job was to remove sawdust from the staging where the timber was cut, became entangled in a shaft revolving 160 times per minute. It whirled him around 20 or 30 times, threatening to obliterate him, before the engine could be stopped. One of his arms was broken in two places.

Reflecting on this powerful history we have a last moving moment at the end of our tour. Towering 16 metres or more above us, rifle barrel straight, is a 130-year-old messmate gum. It is smack in the middle of a once well-used tramline, a living monument to that moment when it all ended.

Words: Kevin Childs | Images: Kyle Barnes / contributed

The State Government is revitalising Central Goldfields Art Gallery with major works underway set to
transform Maryborough as a must-stop destination for visitors.

Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Victoria Danielle Green today viewed progress on the project which has been backed by a $1.7 million investment from the Labor Government’s Regional Infrastructure Fund and the Regional Tourism Investment Fund.
The refurbished and restored gallery is located inside the town’s iconic 161-year-old fire station and will build on the success of the gallery in the region’s arts and culture scene when the doors re-open in September.
Events, exhibitions and arts programs for all ages are being planned for the gallery that are expected to attract thousands of tourists each year and offer locals more opportunities to come together and learn about their history and culture.
There will be increased space for artists to showcase their works and permanent collections including high-profile Australian artists like Arthur Boyd.
The gallery will also bring to life the region’s history, showcasing works that demonstrate the town’s connection to textiles, with the Maryborough Knitting Mills having operated in the town for 70 years until the 1990s.
The gallery’s new open-plan interior will make the most of the building’s natural assets – including the original 19th century ceiling beams – while improvements to lighting, temperature control and floor levels will make the building more accessible and create new contemporary spaces for retail and exhibitions.
There will be upgrades to the education, community and artist workshop area which will mean more students, groups and creatives can be involved in workshops and presentations.
The building’s bell tower will overlook a new landscaped garden area designed to acknowledge and celebrate the Dja Dja Wurrung Traditional Owners. The garden has the potential for art projections and specially commissioned furniture.

It will also incorporate stories of fire and water with indigenous plantings.
This project is part of the Government’s more than $30 billion investment across rural and regional Victoria since 2015.
Danielle Green said:
“I’m thrilled to see the Central Goldfields Art Gallery one step closer to completion, which will boost the region’s tourism potential while creating local jobs.”
“We are revitalising Maryborough’s Central Goldfields Art Gallery to encourage more visitors to stop in town, support local businesses and further boost our regions vibrant economies.”

In a world-first for golf, the Men’s and Women’s Australian Opens will be played together on the world-famous Melbourne Sandbelt from 1-4 December, with support from the State Government.

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Martin Pakula today announced that Victoria Golf Club and Kingston Heath Golf Club will host the first recognised national Open to play both the women’s and men’s tournaments side by side.
The format allows fans to see some of the world’s best men and women golfers, with both courses hosting play on the first two days, and the final two days to be held at Victoria Golf Club.
The Opens will also feature the third edition of the Australian All Abilities Championship, featuring the top 12 players on the World Ranking for Golfers with Disability.
The Men’s Open returns to Victoria for the first time since 2002, while the Women’s returns after a shorter absence of seven years.
The State Government is backing the return of a packed calendar of major events in 2022, bringing thousands of visitors and creating local jobs.
Victoria’s place as the nation’s home of major golf tournaments was recently confirmed with the announcement of the 2028 and 2040 Presidents Cup being awarded to Melbourne.
Golf in Victoria contributes $883 million to the state’s economy and supports 6,900 jobs.
Martin Pakula said:
“As the home of major golf events Victoria is the best place to host this world-first format for the Women’s and Men’s Australian Opens.”
“Golf plays an important role in our tourism sector and delivering major events like this will attract more visitors to Victoria and support jobs.”
Golf Australia CEO James Sutherland said:
“This truly is a coup for Australian golf and will take the tournaments to another level.”
“We strongly believe in this concept. We’ve seen it at the Australian Open tennis for years, and it just makes sense that fans can see their idols, whether they be men or women, all in the one place.”
Five-time women’s Australian Open winner Karrie Webb said:
“I love this concept, the game is cooperating and bringing down barriers and that needs to happen.”
“It’s just awesome for me to see women on the same stage with the same billing, as they should be. We’ve seen it with other events, the public love it and they want it that way.”

Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s Draft Council Plan outlines key priorities and supports the achievement of the Community Vision. It is reviewed annually and the Year Two draft highlights specific actions Council will undertake in 2022/23. It links to the draft budget for 2022/23, which aims to provide a high level of works and services to the community, while keeping rates as low as possible.

The budget will see a continuation of measures to help the community and local businesses recover from the pandemic as well as continued storm recovery and rebuild efforts.
Council’s Capital Works program headlines the budget with plans to deliver $40.17 million in capital works across the shire—a figure that represents 36 per cent of Council’s total revenue.
This Capital Works program funding will enable the continued construction of the Macedon Ranges Regional Sports Precinct, design and progress construction of the Macedon Ranges Shared Trails Project (Woodend to Riddells Creek), pre-planning studies for the future construction of the Daylesford to Hanging Rock Rail Trail and works to the Woodend Golf Club rooms.
The budget also allows for further work on initiatives such as a Woodend Racecourse Reserve Master Plan, the Gisborne Futures Planning Scheme Amendment, Romsey Structure Plan and an Equestrian
Facilities Plan.
In late 2021, Council offered the community an opportunity to contribute to the development of the
budget by inviting community proposals to be submitted. Many proposals were received and
provided to Councillors for consideration in developing this budget. Councillors have reviewed these proposals, along with officer proposals, to develop a balanced budget for our community.
Mayor, Cr Jennifer Anderson encouraged the community to review the draft budget and Council Plan (Year Two) documents and provide feedback.
“I would like to thank all staff, Councillors and the community, who have contributed to the
development of this draft budget and Council Plan Year Two action items. Please let us know your thoughts on what we are proposing”, Cr Anderson said.
“Every year the budget process becomes more complex with rising costs, an increasing population to provide services to, and additional requirements from Federal and State governments.”
“Our staff and Councillors have worked hard to improve our processes and ensure all feedback has been considered when producing Council’s 2022/23 Budget and Council Plan (Year Two)”, Cr Anderson said.
Chief Executive Officer, Bernie O’Sullivan said each year Council aimed to produce a balanced budget, where income at least equalled expenditure. Council’s annual income for 2022/23 is around $110 million, which is mainly comprised of rates, grants, service fees and charges.
”The creation of Council’s Priority Projects 2022 prospectus highlights our commitment to attract funding to deliver major projects and improve services to the community, including advancing issues such as telecommunications, mental health and social and affordable housing. It’s pleasing that we are receiving positive funding announcements on our priority projects,” Mr O’Sullivan said.
For 2022/23, Council rates will align with the statewide rate cap of 1.75 per cent. Last year, the rate
increase was 1.5 per cent, the year before that was 2.0 per cent.
To have your say on the Draft Budget 2022/23 and Council Plan (Year 2) action items, visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/yoursay.
Written submissions on the documents can be sent to PO Box 151, Kyneton VIC 3444 or emailed to mrsc@mrsc.vic.gov.au until 5pm 25 May 2022.
Submitters are able to present directly to Council at the Submitters Committee meeting on Thursday 9 June. It is anticipated the final budget will be presented to Council for adoption on 22 June 2022.
The budget document will be available for review online at mrsc.vic.gov.au/yoursay with printed copies of the budget also be available at Council’s four service centres during standard opening hours, up until 5pm 25 May 2022.

Macedon Ranges Shire Council is delighted with the announcement by the Federal Coalition Government to fund $871,163 towards the award-winning mental health program Youth Live4Life as part of their National Suicide Prevention and Leadership Support grant programme.

The Live4Life model was developed in 2010 by Council as a community-wide response to an increase in youth mental health issues within the shire. High rates of suicide amongst young people, particularly in rural areas, led to the push for more support and education around youth mental health at a local level. The Live4Life program has since been delivered yearly in partnership with five Macedon Ranges secondary schools and four local community organisations and is fully funded by Council. Due to the success of the Macedon Ranges program, in 2015 Youth Live4Life (Inc). was formed to facilitate and govern the expansion of the Live4Life youth suicide prevention and mental health education model beyond just the Macedon Ranges Shire. The program now includes nine rural communities in Victoria and more than twenty other rural communities nationally that have expressed interest in implementing the model. Youth Live4Life Inc. has been instrumental in helping to set up and deliver mental health education to youth and adults across the state and to provide specialised training programs in Youth Mental Health First Aid. It has played a fundamental role in raising awareness about issues surrounding youth mental health, creating local partnerships to lead conversations and reduce the stigma associated with it, and importantly promote young leaders as mental health ambassadors. Macedon Ranges Shire Mayor, Cr Jennifer Anderson said the program has proven to be a great success in raising awareness about youth mental health and suicide prevention thanks to the hard work and commitment over many years of the Live4Life staff and Board, and passionate Shire staff, Councillors and community members. “We are extremely proud of the Live4Life program and the role Council played in its initial implementation. The announcement of additional funding for Youth Live4Life is extremely pleasing as it means the fundamental work the program provides in establishing these communities and educating our young people and their support networks about youth mental health can continue and on a much bigger scale. We’d like to thank the Federal Coalition Government for their contribution to the program in what is a priority area for our community and others alike,” she said. Council has included youth mental health in its Priority Projects 2022 prospectus and is advocating strongly for additional mental health supports for young people to complement the existing supports offered through the Live4Life program in the shire. This includes advocating alongside partners for funding to establish a dedicated youth mental health centre to provide a range of proactive support programs and specialist services in the areas of mental and physical health, work and study support, and alcohol and other drug services.
“Initiatives like this are so incredibly important. If you look after the health and wellbeing of a young person you are looking after the health and wellbeing of the whole community,” she said. For more information about the program visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/live4life Anyone experiencing distress can seek immediate advice and support through Lifeline (13 11 14), Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800), or the Government’s digital mental health gateway, Head to Health.

The State Government is helping to put Victoria’s innovative small-scale and craft producers on the foodie map and showcasing the exceptional food and drink they have to offer.

Minister for Agriculture Mary-Anne Thomas today visited Stomping Ground Brewery and Beer Hall in Moorabbin to announce more than $750,000 of grants under the State Government’s Small Scale and Craft Program which have been awarded to 10 Victorian producers as part of Stream Three grants program.
Kingston Collective has been awarded $43,000 for its Bayside Beer Belt project. The funding will support the creation of the Bayside Beer Belt tours which are set to offer an immersive and educational experience for visitors at over 10 local craft-breweries, including Stomping Ground Brewery and Beer Hall.
Melbourne’s south eastern suburbs are home to a number of unique local breweries and distilleries with the Bayside Beer Belt encouraging Victorians to support their local breweries and tap into its hidden tourism potential.
Stream Three provided grants of between $25,000 and $100,000 to eligible small-scale and craft agribusinesses to support projects that create a unique visitor experience, engage multiple small-scale and craft producers, and put their regions on the map.
The Government’s Small-Scale and Craft Program has awarded grants to more than 300 businesses and invested $6.6 million in the sector.
The Small-Scale and Craft Program supports the 10-year agriculture strategy to create a sector that is strong, innovative and sustainable.
For more information visit: agriculture.vic.gov.au/smallscaleandcraftprogram
Mary-Anne Thomas said:
“We’re proudly backing our small-scale producers because they create unique experiences and attract visitors to all parts of Victoria, which supports local jobs.”
Member for Bentleigh Nick Staikos said:
“The benefits of this program flow to our hardworking and resilient small-scale and craft producers, helping them attract more visitors to the area.”
Stomping Ground Brewery Co-Founder Justin Joiner said:
“The Bayside Beer Belt is set to showcase the amazing group of producers in our local area, thanks to the Stream Three Small-Scale and Craft grant. Community is at the core of everything we do so the opportunity to join the beer belt initiative was very exciting for us.”
Kingston Collective Founder Natalie Wilson said:
“The Kingston Collective is extremely excited to receive the stream three grant which will enable us to develop the Bayside Beer Belt in collaboration with the exceptional local Bayside craft breweries and distilleries. Bayside is the perfect location for a ‘Beercation’ for both beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.”

The State Government’s new senior secondary school certificates will combine the Victorian Certificate
of Education (VCE) and the Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) from next year – making sure every young Victorian gets the education they need for the career they want.

The Victorian Budget 2022/23 will invest $277.5 million in the biggest reform to the senior secondary system since the VCE’s inception, recognising the increased demand for careers in trades and services.
From 2023, the new VCE Vocational Major and Victorian Pathways Certificate will replace VCAL, offering students more choices, a higher-quality curriculum and better workplace experiences – preparing students to jump into further study, training at TAFE or work as soon as they leave school.
An investment of $120.2 million will help schools implement the new certificates and provide every student access to a core offering of 12 different Vocational Education and Training (VET) pathways.
The reforms will save many Victorian families up to $1000 by cutting out-of-pocket costs, with students no longer having to pay for essential learning materials for VET studies.
This investment will also see teachers get the professional development they need to implement the curriculum, making sure schools can hit the ground running as they transition to the new certificate.
In addition, every non-government school will be encouraged and supported to provide these new certificates.
There is already strong interest from across the independent and Catholic sectors, and most non-government schools have started preparing to transition to the new pathways.
To build on the school-based vocational and academic education in the new applied learning stream, a further $69.4 million will expand the Head Start program to every government school in the state – giving all students the opportunity to do an apprenticeship or traineeship in an in-demand sector while completing their schooling.
Head Start gives students career planning support, a tailored pathway into the industry of their choice and a fair training wage – all while they’re earning their senior secondary certificate – in key industries like building, construction, community services and health, business, primary industries and technology.
The Budget will invest $87.9 million to strengthen the teaching workforce for these new pathways – with funded study to attract 400 extra VET trainers, professional development for up to 1,900 teachers and increased funding for jobs, skills and pathways coordinators in schools.
The Vocational Major will replace Intermediate and Senior VCAL, preparing students to move into apprenticeships, traineeships, further education and training, non-ATAR university pathways or straight into the workforce. Vocational Major students will undertake specific studies – Literacy, Numeracy, Work Related Skills and Personal Development Skills – as well as 180 hours of VET, their choice of other traditional VCE studies and time in the workplace, which will give them credits towards their certificate.
The Victorian Pathways Certificate will replace Foundation VCAL, designed to help students transition either to the VCE, to entry level VET or employment – particularly focusing on vulnerable students at risk of leaving education or students with additional needs.

The six priority pathways within the core offering will be in health, community services and early childhood education, building and construction, digital and media technologies, hospitality, and engineering – meaning students will have access to training and skills for growing industries. Additional pathways will also be available in automotive, agriculture and environment, hair and beauty, creative industries, sport and recreation, and business.
Students will see a revised and enriched curriculum with more choice of subjects and a flexible structure that can be adapted to individual learners’ needs – improving their engagement, developing confidence and challenging them within a program that is accessible and achievable for everyone.
Premier Daniel Andrews said:
“Careers in trades and services are just that – careers – with good pay, and secure jobs. And they’re the jobs we need people doing.”
“We know not everyone wants to go to university so we’re making sure every young person has every opportunity to choose the career path that’s right for them.”
Minister for Education James Merlino said:
“Study towards the important jobs that build and care for our state has the same value as any other education after school – and more young Victorians than ever before are pursuing careers in booming trades and services.”
“Victoria’s a different place to what it was when VCE and VCAL started. For many students, getting industry experience and combining an apprenticeship with school is the best way to set them up for the good, decent jobs they want to do.”

The State Government is supporting another local food producer to make new products, boost sales in
international markets and respond to supply chain risks.

Minister for Agriculture Mary-Anne Thomas and Member for Tarneit Sarah Connolly today visited Purearth Foods in Truganina, which has been awarded $485,000 from the $15 million Food to Market program.
The funding will help the company purchase and install new processing equipment to increase efficiency and reduce
allergen risk between dairy and plant-based products.
The specialised equipment will also enable the development of new products while also increasing production volume of existing lines.
By increasing production capability, Purearth Foods will take its milk and plant-based products to new domestic and international markets.
The facility expansion will also allow for additional manufacturing capacity to support local independent brand owners.
Once complete, the $4 million upgrade will create an additional 15 full-time manufacturing jobs as well as support local supply chain partners and farmers in the longterm.
The $15 million Food to Market program is funded through the Labor Government’s Agriculture Strategy.
Fifteen Victorian agri-food businesses have been awarded funding under the second tranche of the program for projects delivering on the strategy’s vision for a Victorian agriculture sector that is strong, innovative, and sustainable.
To learn more about the 10-year Agriculture Strategy, visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/about/agriculture-strategy.
Mary-Anne Thomas said:
“By supporting local producers like Purearth Foods to reach their full potential we’re helping break barriers for expansion to domestic and international markets.”
“By helping companies to diversify their export markets we are backing them to grow, making them more resilient, reducing supply chain risks and supporting new jobs.”
Sarah Connolly said:
“Supporting local businesses such as Purearth Foods here in Truganina is a win for everyone — creating local jobs while supporting local suppliers and transport workers in the area.”
Purearth Foods Chair Lachlan Armstrong said:
“This funding supports our ambitions to create new products, expand in untapped export markets and build overall supply chain resilience – benefiting our local community and suppliers.”

Today Labor Member for Western Victoria, Jaala Pulford, announced applications have opened for grants through the $1 million men’s sheds program.

Men’s sheds provide a place for people to get together, work on common projects and contribute to their community.

In the 2022-23 grant round, men’s shed groups can again apply for a grant of up to $80,000 for the construction of a new shed or the extension or refurbishment of an existing shed.  

There are currently more than 360 communities with men’s sheds throughout Victoria.  

For information about the 2022-23 Men’s Shed Funding Program and how to apply, visit  providers.dffh.vic.gov.au/mens-shed-program

Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers Anthony Carbines said:

“Men’s sheds play such an important role, providing a place to learn new skills and share interests, as well as the opportunity to make friends and contribute to the community.”

“This investment will support upgrades for men’s sheds throughout the state, delivering more opportunities for Victorians to reconnect after a difficult couple of years.” 

Jaala Pulford said:

“These grants will help men’s sheds grow and welcome new members, providing a place for people across our community to connect and supporting their wellbeing.”