September 9th, 2025Your say…

I am writing to express my concerns about the recent article featuring a resident of the Daylesford Ladies Benevolent Society units. (Issue 399)
As the husband of the secretary who has served the Society for over 28 years I have witnessed their dedication and hard work.
Although my wife was approached for comment she was advised by a government department previously not to engage with this resident due to her history of harassment and provocation. Unfortunately the journalist has chosen to publish this article without providing a balanced perspective.
I find it particularly concerning that the journalist did not seek out the views of the other residents to confirm the rent requirements and gain a broader understanding of the care provided by the Society, with only 12 residents it would not have been difficult to gather a range of perspective.
The Society volunteers work diligently to provide housing support and I believe the article did disservice to their efforts.
The Daylesford Ladies Benevolent Society has a remarkable history of over 160 years as a volunteer organisation. It is these combined years that have made possible the homes they provide.
I hope you will consider publishing a more balanced article that reflects the true nature of the Society’s work
– John Kinghorn, Daylesford
(Ed’s note: The Local approached the Society’s secretary three times for comment. None was forthcoming.)