A pioneering healthy ageing project in the Hepburn Shire has been expanded to Daylesford, Trentham and Creswick after a successful pilot program in Clunes.

The project is a result of a partnership between Clunes Neighbourhood House, Attitude – Ageing Well in Clunes, and Central Highlands Rural Health and is backed by the Western Victoria Primary Health Network.

It encompasses two key strategies designed to empower older individuals and improve their quality of life.

The project seeks to inspire healthy habits, foster connections and provide ongoing support to ensure these positive changes persist well into the later years.

The first phase of the project was to develop a ‘healthy ageing hub’ prototype in Clunes that would provide a range of connections, activities and resources in partnership with community groups, and the second phase was to use the lessons learned from the pilot to expand the project’s reach and impact across the region.

Central Highlands Rural Health deputy CEO Phil Catterson said the project was about enhancing people’s lives by reducing the risk of isolation.

“We wanted to make sure that people have access to information and opportunities to connect with their community as those who are active in their community can feel more purpose in life which has many positive health benefits.

“It’s been fantastic to work with the neighbourhood centres across the region to bring this program to life.

We strongly believe that for projects like this to be successful and to get the community to get on board, it has to be done with the community and in partnership with existing community groups and services like the neighbourhood centres.

“Working closely with local neighbourhood centres, the healthy ageing project builds on existing community initiatives and local groups to centralise accurate information on programs and groups available to the community through the creation of a ‘What’s On’ guide.

“This printed booklet has a list of groups available with information on how to get involved. At each neighbourhood centre in Creswick, Daylesford and Trentham there has been a kiosk installed that the community can use to find programs and groups to join to stay connected with technical support offered by the neighbourhood centres and the program volunteers.”

Clunes Neighbourhood House manager Lana de Kort said a key outcome of the pilot program in Clunes had been improved connections through existing groups and community services.

“We’ve been able to reach out to people that we wouldn’t necessarily have known who might be in vulnerable positions or at risk of isolation to form connections and look out for their wellbeing. Big things can come from little beginnings where people collaborate at all levels across the community. And that’s what this is all about.”

Words & image: Contributed

Daylesford teacher Natalie Kirby, and a host of volunteers, are again collecting donations for The Royal Children’s Hospital’s Good Friday Appeal – and they hope to best last year’s total of just over $21,000.

Natalie, who teaches physical education and health at Daylesford College, said this year monies raised would be shared with regional paediatric health services – including Grampians Health.

It’s the first time in the appeal’s history that funding will help take the RCH excellence into the regions to support training, scholarships and state-of-the-art equipment.

“I was really pleased to hear that because spreading the money is really great and gives children in rural and remote areas access to excellent health care. Sometimes it can be tricky to get to Melbourne and if you can get care closer to home that is fantastic.”

Natalie said last year’s Good Friday weather conditions had been “horrific, almost monsoonal rain all day” with people reacting by being very generous.

“I think they felt sorry for us and we raised over $21,000. Of course, the competitive part of me always wants to do better each year, and with Covid meaning people don’t carry cash anymore, we are also inventing lots of ways people can donate electronically.”

That includes the online fundraising page and there will also be EFTPOS machines at the raffle table in the Daylesford Coles breezeway most days from now until Good Friday, and outside the Daylesford Town Hall on the big day.

Natalie said every little donation and raffle ticket purchase helped the cause, which she is passionate about for many reasons.

“I spent a fair bit of time in and out of the Children’s as a kid, a lot as an outpatient, and I have lots of friends whose children or brothers and sisters have been there. Also, as a teacher I believe very strongly in the power of children, they are our future, and if we can nurture them, and support them and keep them healthy, we should.”

For more information head to the group’s Facebook or Instagram pages and to donate go to www.fundraise.goodfridayappeal.com.au/fundraisers/Daylesford

How the appeal started

In 1931, the Children’s Hospital was at risk of closure due to soaring costs, overcrowding and under resourcing. On hearing this, a team of journalists from The Sporting Globe, part of the Herald and Weekly Times, decided to hold a sports carnival to raise money for sick children.

On September 3, 1931, a crowd of 20,000 spectators enjoyed a sports carnival which began with a football match involving competing jockeys from Flemington and Caulfield, followed by a game with WWI veterans representing the north and the south of the Yarra. A total of £427 was raised to support the appeal.

In 1942, journalist and carnival organiser Jim Blake suggested to the Herald and Weekly Times managing director, Sir Keith Murdoch, that the appeal join forces with HWT radio station, 3DB and run an appeal on Good Friday.

Sir Keith agreed, and the partnership enabled the first all-day broadcast held on Good Friday, raising £8310 for the Children’s Hospital.

Words: Donna Kelly

When you’re doing well over 200 km an hour, just centimetres from the ground with no seat belt and no air bag you don’t think about much other than remaining upright.

The niche sport of sidecar racing would have to be one of the most photographic, daring, arguably lunatic and heroic motor sports going.

 “It’s exciting,” says Daylesford’s Noel Beare, one of the fairly exclusive bunch of folk that belong to Australia’s  competitive sidecar racing fraternity.

“You don’t think about your house loan or that bill you have to pay,”  he laughs.

When he’s racing sidecar Noel, also known around town in his more sedate guise as a postie, also thinks (or perhaps it’s something more instinctive than thought) about how he’s using his own body weight to counterbalance the ferocious forces happening at those speeds to keep the  sidecar upright and  hopefully in a winning position.

These days when they race, it’s Noel on back doing the “passengering” (read balancing) and son Declan in the driver’s seat

They’re just back from Tailem Bend, SA where, totally self-funded, they put their F1 1000 CC sidecar through its paces at the Australian National Sidecar Championships.

They were doing very well up until a chain snapped setting them back somewhat.

But chat to father and son and it’s pretty clear neither are too worried about the chain-snapping set-back.

 They both  rate the experience as resoundingly positive, and as a good “shake down” for what lies ahead.

“It was  bit tricky learning a new track,” said Declan of the Tailem Bend outing.

“We did the Friday practice day and by the end of that day we knew which corner was coming up next and so we were able to go a bit faster and have a bit of fun.

“On the last race before our chain snapped we started at 12^th and got up to sixth and our times had kept dropping.

“We were starting to get a bit of a feel for the bike again because it’s been about four months since we’ve been out. It’s good to be back out on the bike, and all the changes that have been made have been really positive – a lot to do with the seating for myself, for more support and just so I can get a bit more of a feel for what the bike is doing.”

And, Noel adds, any safe outing is a good outing.

Many Daylesfordians will recall that the Beare family lost  keen sidecar racer Dwight Beare, Declan’s brother, back in 2016.  He’d been racing at the Isle of Man TT (Tourist Trophy) at the time and following his untimely and tragic loss, the entire Daylesford Town Hall was packed out by mourners.

So, today Noel says that heading back to the Isle of Man this May will be “bitter-sweet”.

Bitter because of the loss of Dwight, 27, there. Sweet because it’s here on this island  that sits in the Irish Sea and is particularly famed for its F2 600 CC sidecar racing that  Noel feels especially close to the son he lost to this addictive sport.

The Isle of Man event  will be happening over May 27- June 12 and Noel will once again be making the trek, not to compete but rather  to spectate and to mark also the tenth anniversary since the first time he and Dwight ever attended  the  Isle to compete.

“It is a little bit bitter-sweet for us but I feel like we are close to Dwight there,” says Noel.

“I’ve been every year just to spectate. It’s fantastic. This year I am just going to spectate and it will be 10 years this year since I first raced there with Dwight.

“In 2014 there were 64 sidecars. We started in 61^st position and we came 12^th and won a bronze replica trophy.”

 In his career as sidecar passenger – which simply couldn’t be any further from the passive role usually associated with being a passenger as it entails literally using your body to shift and counter-balance the immense forces at play, frequently hanging over the side of the vehicle like a living rudder, Noel is current holder of two lap records at the Sydney Motor Sports (Eastern Creek) raceway where a lap is about 4.3km. One of those records was set with Dwight ten years ago, an F2 class race (1.44.84).He also retains a current lap record at Philip Island.

Before Noel heads off to The Isle of Man this year he and Declan are next up headed to Broadford in about a month’s time to compete in the Victorian Titles.

“All the changes that Hamish and the team have made (to the F1 1000 CC long chassis sidecar) are positive and you just hope for a safe and a fast time,” Noel says ahead of Broadford.

“Under a minute, five would be good.”

As they look ahead to take on the competition at Broadford there is a whole team of locals who they want to thank for helping them get their gleaming machine in order.

Noel writes the names down. The list (below) includes people like Hamish Millar who  has spent many months working on their F1  Road Race sidecar’s body, steering, and even its remarkable paintwork.

“The paint is called aurora chameleon interference mica pearl,” says Hamish who is noted as being the first person in Australia to have built an F2 sidecar, as raced at the Isle of Man.

Noel and Declan are also looking to compete at Philip Island in September, a track where they regularly top 220km an hour.

“You know you’re alive I tell you,” Noel says when asked what travelling at that sort of speed with  part of your anatomy leveraging balance, just five or so centimetres from the ground, is like.

Noel says the number of people in the sport of sidecar racing is dwindling and he is keen to attract more to this niche motor racing fraternity that he loves.

“It’s an unusual  sport. People often say ‘where are the safety belt and the air bag?’ And there is none! You just hang on.”#

Words and Images (Top and Inset): Eve Lamb

The local team that Noel and Declan wish to thank for getting Beare Boys Racing up and racing includes:

Howe Auto – Albert and Will Lamb, Kerry Lamb, Deb and Peter; Daylesford Tyre Service – Jamie Adams, Jason Liversidge and Aaron; Dan O’Toole Signs, Hamish Millar (for nearly everything); Mal Reid.

Daylesford’s Good Grub Club is holding a special Easter Passover lunch at the Uniting Church Hall today, Thursday March 28 from noon to 1.30pm.

Treasurer Liz Bennett said the Good Grub Club committee welcomed everyone. She also wanted to give thanks to the Daylesford District Community Bank for its ongoing support as the major sponsor.

“Without their support this would not be possible. The bank is keeping us going as we are not sure if we will have to move when the church is sold.

“Also thanks to the Daylesford Meat Co which is contributing lamb for the lunch. In addition to ongoing meat discounts the Meat Co supports us when we run these special lunches. Last year they gave us turkey for Christmas.”

Ms Bennett said Reverend Jenny Hayes, after many years of dedicated service, had just stepped down as president of the club, and will be giving an Easter blessing just before the lunch.

She said the club expects up to 50 people to gather for the lunch, which is quickly becoming a friendship networking group along with feeding those keen for a three-course midweek meal.

“People are now coming along and exchanging numbers and catching up outside of the club which is fantastic. Just last week it was one of our regular’s birthday and the chefs, who come from Blackwood, made her a cake and we all sang Happy Birthday.”

Ms Bennett said donations from people and organisations were always welcome but even more so as the club faces the uncertainty of a new location. “Local support will be critical as we navigate this challenge to ensure we can continue our vital service to the community. which would be a real shame.

The innovative Live4Life youth mental health and suicide prevention program has launched in Hepburn Shire in recent days.

Live4Life brings together rural and regional communities to deliver accredited youth mental health first aid training and lead conversations to reduce stigma around mental health, and promote young leaders as Mental Health Ambassadors.

Live4Life is an award-winning prevention model centred on young people themselves and aims to protect young lives before a crisis occurs.

In Hepburn, the Daylesford College is shouldering the role of lead agency in implementing the peer-led, evidence-based model that spans both suicide prevention and mental health education and is the only program of its kind designed specifically for rural and regional areas.

“Today marks an exciting chapter at Daylesford College as we launch the Live4Life program in Hepburn Shire,” Daylesford College principal Steve MacPhail said.

“Our approach to student wellbeing is already cutting edge and Live4Life takes us to another level.”

“Our goal is to wipe out the stigma around mental health, teach our young people to recognise when they are struggling, or when a peer is not doing well, smash the barriers that keep them from seeking help, and turn our schools, homes, and communities into havens of mental health wisdom.

“Let’s build a future where our youth not only survive but thrive, and where mental health is not just a conversation but a way of life.”

Three quarters of people with mental ill health have their first episode during adolescence. Suicide is the leading cause of death in 15-24-year-olds in Australia and the suicide rate is 40% higher in rural and regional communities.

Hepburn joins nine other Victorian communities implementing the Live4Life model, where it has proven its effectiveness in growing mental health awareness and a help-seeking culture.

Other Live4Life communities include: Ballarat, Bass Coast/South Gippsland, Baw Baw, Benalla, Central Goldfields, Glenelg, Moira, Southern Grampians and foundation community Macedon Ranges — as well as the first interstate Live4Life community in Break O’Day, Tasmania.

There is currently a waitlist of over 20 rural and regional communities throughout Australia.

Hepburn Shire Council Mayor, Cr Brian Hood said that the Live4Life program is expected to bring real benefits to the region.

“Council is pleased to be working with Daylesford College and Central Highlands Rural Health to bring this important program to young people in our Shire,” Cr Hood said.

“Providing a safe place for them to create connections and foster resilience is key to tackling issues such as suicide and mental health.”

Bernard Galbally, Live4Life CEO: “It is really exciting to be expanding the Live4Life model into Hepburn.

“Live4Life is led by young people and involves the whole community. The Live4Life model has been proven to create more highly-networked communities, which enhance resilience during hard times and help to support young people living in regional and rural areas.

“Youth Live4Life is grateful to Gandel Foundation for philanthropic support to expand this life-changing program to Daylesford College and the Hepburn Shire community.”

Gandel Foundation’s CEO Vedran Drakulic OAM: “Gandel Foundation is committed to creating a positive and lasting difference and to building the spirit and resilience of communities, especially in rural and regional Victoria.

“Empowering young people to develop help-seeking strategies and reduce the stigma about mental ill-health is one of the key ways in helping forge this resilience”.

Youth Live4Life will partner with Daylesford College, Hepburn Shire Council and  Central Highlands Rural Health to deliver the award-winning program.

Anyone interested in further information on how to support the mental health and wellbeing of young people in Hepburn, can contact Bridget Franc at Daylesford College on bridget.franc@education.vic.gov.au.

After six and a half good years, the Reverend Neil Fitzgerald, Vicar of Daylesford’s Christ Church is preparing to leave his current position with the Anglican Parish of Daylesford to take up the position of Priest-in-Charge of the Parish of Woodend and Trentham.

Father Fitzgerald’s last service as Vicar of Christ Church at Daylesford will be on Easter Day.

“The Parish of Daylesford, the town, the congregation and the people will always have a special place in my heart and I give thanks to all who have been on this journey with me and I wish you every blessing for your next chapter,” Father Fitzgerald said.

“I leave grateful for being part of congregational led initiatives such as Sunday School for Grown Ups, The Christ Church Concert series and the upgrade of the WE Stanbridge Hall which will see an exciting future for the people under the care of a new Priest.

Father Fitzgerald expressed his appreciation for the support he and his partner Stephen had enjoyed from the congregation and the local community, particularly as it was his first appointment as a priest.

The status of a replacement for Father Neil at Christ Church, Daylesford now rests with the Bishop of Bendigo. Applicants will meet with a parish selection panel as part of the selection process.

The Daylesford Highland Gathering committee has donated $10,000 to Daylesford Health to be used to improve comfort levels for residents at Lumeah Lodge, its residential aged care facility.

On the first Saturday in December for over 70 years, the Daylesford Highland Gathering has entertained crowds in Vincent Street, Daylesford with a fundraising parade of Scottish culture, music and dance, followed by a fun gathering at Victoria Park.

The current committee is looking to hand over the reins to a new generation of community members who can carry on its incredible legacy.

If you are interested in joining the Daylesford Highland Gathering Committee please get in touch via
www.daylesfordhighland.com online.

Committee secretary Anne Heriot said the donation was a token of appreciation for the wonderful facilities provided for the elderly of our community.

“Daylesford’s aged citizens are truly blessed to have a facility that provides such caring support and residency prospects, and we thank your dedicated staff for all their efforts.”

Daylesford Health’s Director of Nursing Meagan Harding said the money would play a pivotal role in
enhancing the facilities at Lumeah Lodge.

“This contribution will ensure that the residents of Lumeah Lodge enjoy an improved environment, characterised by safety, comfort, and inviting spaces for all who reside there. We are extremely thankful to the Daylesford Highland Gathering Committee.

“Community is at the heart of what we do at Central Highlands Rural Health. For more than 160
years, we have been supported by the generosity of those who contribute their time and money to ensure that we can best meet the health challenges of our local communities.”

It’s been a long wait for the Daylesford Girl Guides but after two years the good news finally came through.

They have a builder.

Back in 2022 the local guide group secured government funding of $47,000 through Regional Development Victoria’s Living Local Regional Grants Program, for a long awaited revamp of their historic hall – including removal of asbestos.

But guide leader Susan Verbyla says the widespread shortage of tradies meant they had been unable to proceed with the work … until now.

Recently the guides secured the services of local builder Alan Ware of Ware Carpentr, meaning they can also go ahead and bring in the asbestos removal experts to rid the vintage hall of the unwelcome material.

The asbestos is – thankfully – not in the main body of the hall that guides have used all the way back to 1958, Susan says.

“It’s on the outside eaves, and in part of the kitchen and there’s a piece behind the electrical switchboard,” she says.

“The grant will cover removal of all of the asbestos, replacement and repair of walls, ceiling, front steps, electrical work, plumbing, painting, carpet and curtains and some exterior work. It was an exciting grant to receive as the hall is in dire straits. The builder is just starting now.”

Susan was not making any secret of her excitement over the fact that after the long wait work can finally get going which is not just good news for the guides.

It’s also great news for many other local community groups who, once work is complete, will be able to use the hall for their gatherings as well.

Susan says a main aim is ensuring some ongoing income with rent coming in, and a couple of local playgroups already lined up as regular hirers of the beautifully positioned old hall in Duke Street, neighbouring Daylesford’s civic offices.

“It’s just in the ideal spot. This is the original hall in the original spot,” Susan says.

The guides are hopeful the work will be competed by Easter, at which point Susan hopes to hold a public open hall week so current and former users of the hall can get along and admire the upgrades.

“I’d like to have it done by Easter and I think we will,” she says.

“I would love to have an open hall week for the community. I reckon there are women here in the community who were probably part of that original group.”

It would also be a chance for any community groups who are interested to take a peek and see if the hall may just suit their own ongoing meeting needs as well.

“Quite often other groups in the community contact me and ask if they can hire the hall,” Susan says.

The hall’s presence in Daylesford dates back to the late 1950s with a plaque naming the date of 1958, and Susan says it was moved to its current site in Duke Street especially for the guides of the day.

Former guide leader with the group, Glenda Fleischer started with the guides back in the late 60s as an assistant for the rangers (older guides) and remained with them for three decades including a stint as assistant regional leader.

“The hall came from near Glenlyon. It was donated by the Ogden family,” says Glenda who lives at Glenlyon.

“Before the hall, I think they used to meet at the church behind the guide hall. Daylesford was a very early unit.”

The guiding movement in Daylesford has been going for well over 100 years – right back to the early 1900s – and Daylesford’s Marj Green is among those who remembers back to the days before the current hall arrived.

“The hall came from Spring Hill and I’m fairly sure it used to be a church,” Marj says.

Marj started as a brownie (which have since been replaced by junior guides) back in the 1940s when the Daylesford brownies and guides of the day used to gather in the town’s Baptist Hall.

“Back then we belonged to the Clunes District and we used to have lots of fun,” recalls Marj who went on to become a brownie leader (or Brown Owl) in 1977 and stayed on with the movement in Daylesford until 1996.

Back in the day, Marj says the young brownies would learn about many things including how to do the dishes properly, clean their shoes correctly, and set the table properly including correct placement of soup spoon.

Today, the Daylesford unit has about 18 guides whose ages range from six to 14 and they enjoy a wide range of activities. Things like skateboarding, swimming, camping – and yes, a bit of knot-tying. A few of the more traditional things remain, like cookery, craft and community service.

But the movement has changed quite a bit since the 1950s, says Susan who has been with them for at least a decade with her own daughter, Lucinda, having grown up a keen guide.

“Girl guides is very different these days. It’s got to be girl-led,” she says.

Words: Eve Lamb

A large crowd gathered in Daylesford last Thursday evening to congratulate five new inductees to the International Women’s Day (IWD) Heather Mutimer Honour Roll.

Hepburn Shire Council inducted Anne Bremner, Nikki Marshall, Marj Green, Michelle Clifford and Yvonne Sillett to the honour roll, which was established in 2005 to pay tribute to the women in Hepburn Shire whose contributions, courage and efforts have led to significant social change for women.

Mayor, Cr Brian Hood, said the inductees had made an enormous contribution over many decades.

“Our inductees have demonstrated exemplary service to our community and in many instances their deeds have impacted people well beyond our shire boundaries,” he said.

“They have made incredibly valuable contributions both to their communities and to causes that are close to their hearts. We sincerely thank them for their tireless efforts over many years and congratulate them for joining a long list of significant local women on our honour roll.”

For the town hall ceremony, Peta Hudson performed a Welcome to Country and students from Daylesford College entertained the crowd with music and speeches. Professor Paula Gerber, associate dean in the Faculty of Law at Monash University, was the guest speaker.

International Women’s Day is held annually on March 8. The theme for 2024 is Count Her In: Invest in Women. Accelerate progress.

Anne Bremner

Anne epitomises the spirit of pioneering women, seamlessly managing household chores, caring for family and contributing to the family farm, Wombat Organics, until into her 60s. Her leadership shines through her quiet yet effective management style, effortlessly steering community events and fundraisers.

Gender equality is intrinsic to Anne; she tackles tasks head-on, excelling in every endeavour with dedication and humility. Her leadership extends to various roles, including club champion and board member at the Daylesford Bowls Club, where she ensures financial stability. Anne’s 50-year commitment to the Lyonville Hall as president and treasurer underscores her dedication to community spaces.

Her volunteer work spans over 50 years, encompassing roles in community committees and initiatives like the Healthy Lunches Program. Anne’s altruism extends to delivering Meals on Wheels and supporting school nutrition programs, showcasing her unwavering dedication to community welfare. Additionally, she provides invaluable support to friends and family during health challenges and serves as a compassionate presence during end-of-life care.

Nikki Marshall

Nikki is a beloved, wise and respected community leader and change agent. She has been described as a village builder for her unique ability to bring people together, nurture ideas and forge pathways for action. Nikki has spent a lifetime developing initiatives to facilitate change, to address inequities and to strengthen communities. Before moving to Hepburn Shire, Nikki spearheaded pioneering projects supporting refugee and migrant women in Victoria.

Notably, she established the English Language and Settlement Support Program for women from war-torn African countries, revolutionising teaching methods and influencing agencies like the Adult Migrant Education program.

She also played a pivotal role in developing educational programs to combat female circumcision/genital mutilation, empowering the affected women to develop and implement the program which was subsequently adopted by state government health services. She developed the Multicultural Home Support Program for ageing migrants and won an award for excellence from Department of Human Services.

In Hepburn Shire, Nikki confronts climate change head-on, organising impactful events like the Local Lives Global Matters conference, which attracted over 3000 attendees and spurred the formation of the action group, Localising Leanganook. Committed to sustainable farming, she initiated and supported milking cooperatives, empowering local women and young families.

Additionally, Nikki facilitated the preservation of the Yandoit Uniting Church for community use and pioneered Yandoit Cultural, a vibrant community-led performance program. A passionate advocate for storytelling and local history, Nikki organises events for the shire’s literary arts festival, Words in Winter and History in Story series.

Instrumental in establishing the Daylesford Repair Café, she champions waste reduction through repair and re-use and encourages community skill-sharing. As co-editor of The Chronicle for 12 years, Nikki builds community cohesion through her writing and editing skills, inspiring a dedicated team of contributors.

Known for her transformative leadership and compassionate nature, Nikki embodies wisdom, empathy and courage. She serves as a trusted mentor, offering support to individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Nikki’s enduring commitment to building relationships and addressing social and ecological challenges with integrity underscores her invaluable presence in the community, enriching the lives of those around her.

Marj Green

Marj Green has dedicated decades of her life to numerous local organisations, championing the advancement of women’s status as a shining example of service. Notably, her involvement with the Daylesford Girl Guides from 1964 to 1996 showcased her commitment to empowering girls through education and leadership development, aligning with the Girl Guides Victoria’s mission. Marj’s steadfast support for the Daylesford Ladies Benevolent Society, spanning 60 years, underscores her tireless efforts in promoting women’s welfare and housing security.

A lifelong member of Christ Church, Marj has actively contributed through music, service on the Parish Council and caring for the church’s environment. Her dedication extends beyond the church as she actively participates in preserving its historical documents. Marj’s wisdom is widely sought after, both in organisational matters and personal guidance. Despite her humble nature, she has served as captain of the Newstead Croquet Club, nurturing members and fostering a love of the game.

Additionally, her leadership within the Girl Guides movement and Brownies section has impacted countless young women, reflecting her enduring commitment to empowerment and mentorship. Through her unwavering dedication and selfless service, Marj Green has left an enduring legacy of empowerment and community enrichment.

Michelle Clifford

Michelle Clifford is that rare blend of person who is both the hub that organises action as well as a person who gets the job done. She has been recognised for her tireless efforts for her community and makes a difference in the lives of our community members every day.

Michelle demonstrated three of the five categories for inclusion to the Honour Roll. She is a local champion who has worked tirelessly for our community through her involvement with Daylesford Community Op Shop, Hepburn Regional Cheer, Hepburn Blue Light Committee, the Daylesford Community Childcare Committee, the Bullarto Primary School and Daylesford College councils and committees.

She is a change agent – or a force of nature. Michelle tackles challenges head- on, leveraging her extensive network to find solutions. From sourcing a new battery to lobbying for recognition and rights for First Nations’ peoples; she leads through disaster. Hepburn has been through floods, fires, storms and pandemics. Michelle has been there.

Beyond community-wide initiatives, Michelle provides invaluable support to individuals facing personal hardships, leaving a profound impact on all fortunate enough to encounter her kindness and selflessness.

Yvonne Sillett

Yvonne’s journey as a trailblazer began in 1979 when she enlisted in the Australian Army, breaking barriers in a male-dominated field. Despite achieving the milestone of becoming the first female corporal responsible for training recruits at Kapooka, her career was abruptly halted due to discrimination based on her sexuality.

Undeterred, Yvonne embarked on a mission for justice, advocating for an apology from the Australian Government and Defence Force for the unjust treatment of LGBTIQA+ personnel.

Her story gained recognition at Victoria’s Shrine of Remembrance and in the book Serving in Silence, showcasing her resilience and advocacy. Yvonne’s voluntary testimony at the Government Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide further amplified her cause, aiming to empower LGBTIQA+ individuals serving in the defence forces.

She remains committed to inclusivity and equality, advocating for LGBTIQA+ rights within the Hepburn Shire community and supporting initiatives like the Rainbow Wreath ceremony for Anzac Day. Yvonne’s educational efforts extend to fostering awareness and understanding of LGBTIQA+ needs at Hepburn House and securing grants to support LGBTIQA+ elders in the community.

As a co-founder of the Discharged LGBTIQA+ Veterans Association, Yvonne continues to advocate for justice and recognition, inspiring others through her compelling story. Her unwavering commitment to authenticity and advocacy has sparked artistic tributes and invitations to speak at various events, solidifying her role as a champion for inclusivity and equality in both local and broader communities.

Words: Hepburn Shire Council

Former Bushwhacker Mick Slocum has been in Daylesford in recent days to do something he absolutely loves besides making music – working to make the town’s heritage post box sing.

Restoring the state’s 120 or so red heritage pillar post boxes has become a self imposed labour of love for Mick, well known to many through his former role as a muso with Aussie band the Bushwhackers.

It all started with his own local heritage post box in suburban Ascot Vale in April last year, when Mick became aware that it had been besmirched with graffiti.

First he cleaned up the graffiti, but then could not resist going a little further to restore the vintage postal piece properly back to its former glory.

“I came home, bought some cleaning material, cleaned off the graffiti, and stood back and looked at it and thought, I’ll just keep going,” he says.

 “So I went down to the hardware store, bought a can of red, a can of gold, and a can of black and went back and rubbed it all down and sanded it and resprayed it.”

From there the bug bit and, gaining the full-hearted support of Australia Post, Mick has since restored more than 20 heritage post boxes on streets in various Melbourne suburbs and in regional centres including Kyneton and Castlemaine, before most recently turning his attention to Daylesford’s own historic number on the corner of Camp and Raglan Streets in Willis Square.

“This is the 26th one I’ve restored so far and there are about 120 statewide, all in varying states of disrepair and all seriously deteriorating,” Mick said as he got to work on the Daylesford box, painstakingly bringing out its intricate heritage details.

Mick is more than keen to lovingly restore each and every one of the remaining boxes in Victoria, with Australia Post not only remunerating him for his troubles, but also paying him a bit for his contribution to the nation’s postal heritage as well.

“But I never set out to get paid,” said Mick who is also a professional pharmacist and remains a working musician as well.

But, being a showman at heart, he dresses especially for his heritage restoration activities, sporting a tartan vest suit that emphasises the sense of occasion and reinforces the heritage significance of what he is doing.

 “This one’s got about 10 coats of paint on it and the original features are covered,” he said in Daylesford.

 “There isn’t a single person alive now who was here when this was installed. The oldest of them dates back well over 140 years and every third one is still useable.”

Daylesford’s is one of these. In fact someone popped over and posted a letter in it while Mick chatted about the restoration process that typically takes him a couple of days depending on the state of the box.

“I’ve sort of invented myself a job for life,” he said.

“It’s a bit like painting the Sydney Harbour Bridge because once you’ve finished it will be time to start all over again.

“It’s extremely meditative and I particularly enjoy it when I put the red paint on it and you can see it coming to life.”

Next up, following the restoration of Daylesford’s, Mick is turning his attention to Ballarat where, he says there are eight of the vintage post boxes and he plans to start with the one near the regional city’s train station, and then move on to the one in the CBD.

“They are priceless examples of our Victorian heritage,” he says.

When not bringing vintage postal boxes back to their yesteryear glory, Mick is also a professional pharmacist and an active muso who, together with his current band The Exciting McGillicuddies, has a regular Sunday evening gig at an Irish pub in inner city Kensington.

 “We’re lifting the veil on Australia’s heritage. There aren’t many things on the streets these days that are 130 years old. They’re so beautiful,” he said. Words: Eve Lamb

Moorabool Crime Investigation Unit detectives are appealing for public assistance following a burglary at a jewellery store in Daylesford last month.

Investigators believe the store on Vincent Street was broken into about 3.40am on 27 February.

Once inside the premises the offender has smashed a number of display cases and has stolen jewellery and designer bags worth $100,000.

Most of the items stolen are unique and easily identifiable. Victoria Police has released images of some of the stolen items (below).

Detectives are keen to speak to anyone who may have witnessed any suspicious activity on Vincent Street or who has been offered jewellery for sale.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit the Crime Stoppers website online.

It’s been a sparkling ChillOut festival in Daylesford over the March Labour Day long weekend. On Sunday morning the parade, filled Daylesford’s main drag with radiant, positive vibes. Images below: Eve Lamb

Throughout the weekend, at myriad feature events including opening night, bush dance and carnival, some pretty amazing boots and bling shone as they received a serious workout in keeping with this year’s festival theme. Images below by Michelle Donnelly Photography

My first impression of Rogue Traders band members Natalie Bassingthwaighte and James Ash is just how grounded and real they both are.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of their first album, which has sold over a million records globally. Through it all they have remained the best of friends while navigating relationships, parenthood, fame and life.

So having the band headline at this year’s ChillOut Festival’s Carnival celebrations at Victoria Park in March is a fantastic coup for the event organisers and participants. And the duo is excited to be a part of it all.

While admitting they didn’t know a lot about the festival, after a rundown of its history and significance, they both felt ‘grateful’ for being part of such an event.

“I have goosebumps hearing about it,” was Natalie’s reaction.

“The history and the stories. It’s a weekend that is so inclusive; so full of joy that we are truly excited.

“In this world we all want a sense of community, without being judged and permission to be ourselves. Being part of ChillOut is being part of something that connects us, allow us to be ourselves and we all should be able to express ourselves exactly how we choose to.”

James knows just how much pressure there is for us all to conform.

“There’s a great deal of pressure for conformity and it’s a matter of finding your people, those who you feel safe with and connect with, and I think the queer community teaches us all that everyone is diverse and an individual,” he said.

It’s lovely listening to the two chat during the interview, which feels more like a catch-up than an interview. And it is obvious the two share a unique bond. They agreed their friendship goes far beyond the band – their kids have grown up together as they have shared life’s ups and downs.

Festival programming committee member Jacqui Walter said the committee was excited for this year’s line-up of entertainment and believes having Rogue Traders perform is testament to ChillOut’s reputation as Australia’s longest-running queer festival.

“We are super excited to have Rogue Traders at ChillOut as they are so prominent on the Australian music landscape. We can’t wait to welcome Nat and James live to the ChillOut experience – the feeling of connection and love. That’s what it’s all about,” she said.

Jacqui is also looking forward to performing with her band Lost Girls, who are all still enjoying performing into their late 50’s and early 60’s.

“I can’t wait to play ahead of Nat and James and the entire audience to show that age is no barrier,” she said.

Natalie, now 48 and touring while raising teenagers and navigating life, said ageism was a thing in the music world but she sees a shift happening.

“It’s like we give ourselves permission to let loose and don’t have the pressures we had when we were younger. And I think it helps when the likes of Kylie Minogue are creating amazing music…it sends a message that we can simply be who we want to be and be true to ourselves.”

For James and Natalie both agree playing at LGBTIQA+ events are where they have the most fun.

“The events are safe and we are fortunate to be asked to play at such events,” James said.

For Natalie, queer events have greater meaning in her life now ‘for obvious reasons’ and said she feels grateful to be part of ‘heartfelt celebrations’.

So, after a lengthy conversation (the pair were so generous with their time) about life, parenthood, and sharing reviews on streaming shows, the pair were getting ready for rehearsals and their next gig. And genuinely looking forward to being part of the 26th ChillOut Festival. Visit www.chilloutfestival.com.au.

Words: Narelle Groenhout | Image: Contributed

There are so many festivals and exhibitions to choose from as the Labour Day long weekend rolls into the Central Highlands.

First up, ChillOut. The long-running LGBTIQA+ festival is huge and happening right over the weekend, from March 7 to 11.

There are too many events to list here but the Grand Parade along Vincent Street on Sunday is always a hit (feel free to cheer on The Local) and then head to Victoria Park to relax for the afternoon. Check out pages 14 and 15 (This edition of The Local, online and hard copy) for loads more ideas.

If art is more your thing, head to Newstead and surrounds for the Newstead Open Studios Art Trail happening over the long weekend and also March 16 and 17.

There are plenty of talented artists who are opening their studio doors so people can take a peek inside to see how they work and create their amazing pieces.

Head to page 7 to read about ceramicist Sarah Koschak, whose fascination with pottery began as a small child and never really left.

And Newstead Hub is hosting Mysterious Landscapes over the weekends of March 2 & 3, 9 & 10 & 11, 16 & 17 and 23 & 24 with the opening on Sunday, March 3 at 2.30pm.

Another great event is the Clunes Historic Vehicle Show, happening at the Clunes Showground on Sunday, March 10. There are trucks, cars, tractors, engines and caravans on display – maybe make a weekend of it and take up the offer of camping.

Women are also celebrated in March with International Women’s Day on Friday, March 8. The Cosmopolitan Hotel is holding an inaugural charity lunch that day with proceeds to Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health.

And the International Women’s Day Heather Mutimer Honour Roll event will be held at the Daylesford Town Hall on Thursday, March 7.

And that’s all just for starters. Read the rest of The Local for more great events, festivals and exhibitions happening throughout March. Oh, Blackwood Woodchop & Easter Carnival is coming up. Check out the back page. Words: Donna Kelly

The Daylesford Football Netball Club may just be kicking and shooting more goals in the near future after receiving state funding for a lighting upgrade at its home base.

The Member for Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas announced in recent days that Victoria Park in Daylesford is among 12 facilities across Victoria to share in more than $2.5 million from the latest round of the Country Football and Netball Program.

All up for Daylesford, $250,000 will now go to the installation of 200 lux LED lighting on the netball court, and 100 lux LED lighting on the oval at the popular local venue.

Also in the electorate of Macedon, The Riddells Creek Recreation Reserve has received $200,000 under the same program, to install 100 lux LED lighting on its oval.

Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas: “Footy, netball and cricket clubs are the heart and soul of Macedon.

“This boost will go a long way to helping the mighty Riddell Bombers and the Daylesford Bulldogs cater for the growing number of people keen to get involved in grassroots sport, providing more opportunities for locals to get active and play the sport they love.”