Howard Opens Men's Shed

Edition 418, August 2015 Howard opens Men’s Shed The Buninyong Men’s Shed was officially opened on Saturday 13 June by Geoff Howard MLA, Member for Buninyong.

President Russell Williams said that Geoff Howard’s involvement in the area from 1999, made him a logical person for the honour. He unveiled a small ‘shed-made’ plaque. Members of the Men’s Shed were very pleased to see about 70 people attend the event.

Russell Williams explained that this Shed had grown from very small beginnings in a backyard shed, and grew to the current membership quickly. Construction of the new Shed commenced in 2014. Geoff Howard MLA officially opening the Buninyong Men’s Shed, with President This shed is known for its amenable Russell Williams, one of the inaugural members. environment and constructive culture of friendship and supportiveness. One of the main activities is to The Buninyong Men’s Shed’s 35 construct equipment and items for members anticipate there will be more Also speaking at the opening was the use by local organisations. These people who wish to join after this President of the Beaufort Men’s Shed, will include items such as school successful opening. , who is also on the executive Bob Forde playground facilities, and celebratory committee of the Victorian Men’s Shed items such as honour boards and For information on the Buninyong Men’s Association (VMSA). Bob spoke of the remembrance crosses. Shed call Bill Jolly on 0414 717 507 new Sheds which were being established or Chris Kruger on 0408 979 370 throughout the region, and explained Members participate in recreational how the sheds could best assist men activities, as well as having Geoff Parker wanting to become involved in their opportunities to put their skills to use local communities. for the benefit of their community. It is In this issue: foreseen that the members will possibly Attendees were treated to a fine be developing mentor programs for Children’s book launched...... 2 morning tea prepared by wives of school aged children, assisting refugees Local youth leaders...... 3 shed members. to integrate into their new community, Brigade call for volunteers...... 4 and providing a place for participants Fresh look for local website...... 7 Assistance Goose to fly with new feathers...... 9 to have a chat, learn new skills and give Shock Council resignation...... 11 The Buninyong Men’s Shed is fortunate back to the community. to have had some wonderful benefactors Gardens luncheon...... 12 in the community, and received grants An Open Day is proposed for early Another chapter for old Shire offices... 13 from the State Government, the October to enable others in the Graeme – a true friend of Nepal...... 15 Buninyong Community Engagement community to see the work being done Two new businesses open...... 16 Fund and from the Community Bank. and to see if it could be something that The majority of equipment and tools in they may also be interested in being the shed has been donated. involved in. LOCAL NEWS

Children’s book launched Kids inspire Karen’s books

The actions of her children have prompted two of the four children’s books published by local children’s author and primary teacher, Karen Collum.

Karen and husband Mike, a pastor in the Seventh Day Adventist Church, have four children – Samuel, 10, twins Jacob and Matthew, 7, and Hannah 4. All attend the local Buninyong primary school and kindergarten.

Following the death of her father some five years ago, Karen and family moved to Buninyong from Brisbane to be closer to her mother who lives at Sunbury. Her latest book Small and Big, was launched on 12 July at Karen said that as a primary teacher in Queensland she “loved Ballarat Books, with Karen’s illustrator Ben Wood also there to reading books to children, and harboured a secret desire to one do some illustrations for children and others present. “He is an day become an author of children’s books.” absolutely fantastic artist,” Karen said. Without any contacts in the publishing business, breaking into This book, about a young boy called ‘Big’ and his best friend publishing of children’s books was a hard road for Karen, but a dinosaur called ‘Small’ was also inspired by another of her undaunted, she took writing courses, and studied the steps children, Jacob – one of the twins, who, she says notices many involved in becoming a published author. small things missed by adults who are usually more concerned Samuel’s kisses with bigger things and problems. Her first children’s book Blow Me a Kiss, published in 2010, Karen’s other published books are Fish Don’t Need Snorkels and was inspired by eldest child Samuel who loved to blow kisses When I Look at You. She presently has another four manuscripts to anyone who happened to stop and talk to him. The process for children’s books with her agent in Sydney. of getting this book published took over three years. It has now been released in the USA and South Korea in addition to Her books are available from Ballarat Books in Armstrong Street, Australia, and also in a new paperback edition. Ballarat or through her website – www.karencollum.com.au. Scotsburn teaches UK a few things

For a few weeks in early winter, the Scotsburn campus of the Buninyong Primary School played host to a group of trainee teachers from the UK. They really enjoyed the time spent with teachers and students at the school, and also joined in such local cultural events as feeding the chooks and having a warm Milo on a very cold day.

The school benefited to the tune of almost $1000 recently from a barbecue held outside of the Bunnings store and organised by a parent, Marita Williams who was assisted by other parents during the day

2 Buninyong & District Community News Edition 418, August 2015 PEOPLE Local youth leaders Making their Red and Blue INTERESTING pair of signs down on mark on the town the corner of Eyre and Warrenheip Streets for a few weeks recently. While Buninyong has its good share and to get to know about the changes Placed curiously against the backdrop of older community leaders and that are happening around Buninyong. of the big navy ‘Harcourts Real Estate’ personalities, two younger residents signage on the little historic building have started to make their mark on She lists her other interests as reading, was a red ‘For Sale’ sign of the other village life in quite different ways. writing, singing and eating food. local real estate company PRD. However, a deal seems to have been Teaching youth struck which will soon see Harcourts Another Youth Councillor is 22 year again in action from that site. old Aaron Mercer who has lived in Hopefully, popular Martin Huntley Buninyong for the past four years after will again be coming here from Smythesdale involved after recovering from He has been very active in assisting serious injuries the Council in the development of the from a fall from Youth Space at the corner of Forest and a ladder. Inglis Streets. He said that this space, developed over the past twelve months Access to water or so with assistance from the Buninyong THE REPORT by Russell Luckcock Community Bank, has really provided a of the recent Buninyong house fire “better and more healthy youth recreation (see back page) raises an important area for the young of this community”. issue of the availability of accessible emergency water sources for fighting Aaron who holds a Certificate 3-4 in Sixteen year old Kaitlyn Eden has domestic or other fires in local areas Health and Physical Education among recently been selected to be part of the not serviced by town water. Nice to other qualifications, is a highly qualified Ballarat Youth Council team. Kaitlyn says live in some of the wooded and more Instructor in Parkour, a discipline which that she “couldn’t be more happy” to be isolated areas of the district, but not uses the equipment now installed at the a member of the team. She says that so nice when emergency services Youth Space. she wanted to be involved as it seems strike a problem like this. that most young people simply “get told He said that he aimed to bring local youth Town Hall works to listen”. to the very best in free Parkour lessons, SEEMS ACTION is about to start on ranging from basic to advanced classes. “As young people we have an amazing the Town Hall precinct project with “Buninyong has been a great community opportunity to share our thoughts and some modifications to the roundabout. to me and I can only hope to give as ideas throughout the schools and online, Cr Peter Innes and former Council much as I can back into the community and yet most young adults are too afraid Infrastructure Manager Eric Braslis from supporting our local businesses to do so. We need to embrace ourselves, are on record asserting that “not to leading our youth to a brighter and inspire others and have a voice in what one cent” of the project’s budget healthier future.” we hope to achieve.” of $650,000 will be spent on the roundabout – VicRoads’ responsibility. Born and raised in Buninyong, Kaitlyn Hope that assurance holds up. has always loved the community. She says that she can often be found either Storm in a Coffee Cup walking to her part-time work at the THE APPEARANCE of a coffee Buninyong Foodworks store, or reading machine in the foyer of Village Place in the Botanical Gardens. “It wasn’t until (the old Shire Offices) apparently recently that I realised how lucky I am caused more than a little froth around to have such amazing surroundings that town recently. Rumours that Gerard are lacking in other areas of Ballarat,” Ballantyne was about to again she said. get into the coffee business can be scotched. Not happening! The coffee She said that something as simple as machine will only be used in-house by a poll at the Buninyong Primary School tenants of the new business hub of could boost the awareness of young serviced offices. people as to how much power they have

Edition 418, August 2015 Buninyong & District Community News 3 LOCAL NEWS Brigade call for volunteers

So far during winter months, the Buninyong Fire Brigade has attended 23 fire-related incidents in the district.

The Brigade is now making a call for persons of all ages who might be interested in working as a volunteer with the Brigade in some capacity.

A range of skills can be used and are needed. Brigade Captain Marc Cannan said that being a CFA volunteer “can involve some hard work, but it also brings great rewards.”

Being a CFA volunteer creates opportunities to

• develop leadership and people management skills Taylor Connell and driver Kenneth Bell, both Buninyong • learn new skills that can help in one’s professional and CFA volunteers, assist with the tanker during the recent personal life Wirreanda Drive house fire • receive accredited training • meet and make new friends • be part of Victoria’s largest volunteer organisation.

Capt. Cannan said that volunteering with the CFA is a great way to put something back into the community. Persons interested in finding out more about becoming a CFA volunteer should call 1800 232 636 or speak to any member of the Buninyong Brigade at the fire station.

The Buninyong Fire Brigade meets once a month on the fourth Tuesday at 7.30pm, and holds a training session on each Tuesday at 7.30pm at the local fire station in Learmonth Street Members of the Buninyong and Elaine Fire Brigades helped The Buninyong Country Fire Brigade was officially founded out the Scotsburn school campus recently with a safe burn- in 1872 although there were earlier volunteer brigades. off of a pile of debris collected from the school grounds. Pictured (L to R) Gareth Smith, Buninyong CFA Captain It is now making a call for persons interested in joining Marc Cannan, Daniel Stewart, Matt O’Brien, Sally Gregory, as volunteers. Patrick Cashin, Kris Dimartino, Taylor Connell

4 Buninyong & District Community News Edition 418, August 2015 OPINION Protect WHAT

This publication is a community heavy industries? project of the Buninyong & District Community Association (BDCA) supported by the City of Ballarat and In early June the BDCA submitted a the Buninyong Community Bank. 3500 word response to the Council’s Published monthly massive 284 page interim planning There would be document – Ballarat Strategy : Our Editorial Advisory Committee: strong community Gayle Adams, Michelle Corcoran, Vision for 2040. “ Deb Ellis, John Emery, Greg Veal. concern should Predictably, many of the issues Acting Newsletter Co-ordinators: Barry Fitzgerald, Gayle Adams, Jodi Beale commented on included the need to there be significant protect Buninyong’s unique mix of urban All contributions (copy, letters or advertising) must be submitted before and rural landscape, public transport, expansion of the twelfth of each month to present and impending traffic issues, extractive industries [email protected]. tourism, walking and cycling networks, Enquiries to 5341 2844. and township planning. Copy should not exceed 400 words and a maximum of two photographs per item This submission was followed up with Secondly, what “heavy industries” were” may be submitted (but not necessarily a meeting with City of Ballarat Planning being referred to, and why such a clear published). Material may be edited officers on 13 July, and the publication of expression about “protection” should because of space, style, or clarity, or for legal reasons. the final report is now awaited. be made about this land when there The name and address of the person is apparent reluctance elsewhere in One intriguing part of the interim submitting any material must be the document to use such terminology provided (not for publication). document that remains unclear was at about other issues such as greenfields Page 106 where there was reference to The Editorial Advisory Committee sites, heritage areas, ridgeline views reserves the right not to publish the need for “planning for the Industrial and the like. material considered to be offensive or Zone 1 land west of Buninyong in proximity inappropriate or not deemed to have of Scotchman’s Lead Road, with a view to There would be strong community community interest or relevance. ensuring that it is appropriately protected concern should there be significant The views expressed or information for future use by heavy industries”. expansion of extractive industries in this provided in this publication are not area, and there would be especial concern necessarily those of the Buninyong and District Community Association, The BDCA expressed curiosity about should there be proposals to make such this statement on two fronts. Firstly, in the City of Ballarat or of the Buninyong an area available for more heavy industry. Community Bank, including any officers, a planning document which claimed to members, agents or contractors. be broadly cross-city focused and to Nearby residents and the local Newsletter printed by Baxter and be concerned with ‘big picture’ issues, environment would seem better Stubbs, Ballarat. why is a specific piece of land zoned candidates for protection! Newsletter available online at: industrial, at a specific address singled www.buninyong.vic.au/newsletter.htm And…we’re still curious. out for comment?

Edition 418, August 2015 Buninyong & District Community News 5 LOCAL NEWS New leader for Lions The Buninyong and Mt Helen Lions Club installed a new President at last month’s ‘handover’ dinner held at the Buninyong Bowling Club.

Ian Voigt was inducted to the position, taking over from outgoing President Simon Jess who was warmly thanked for his contributions to the Club over the previous twelve months. District Governor Kevin Tait attended the meeting.

District Governor Kevin Tait (left) assisted by Wendy McCann congratulate new President Ian Voigt

CAN ANYONE HELP? Contributions and advertising I am looking for photographs of any Durham Lead buildings, especially the Churches. I have a photo of the Presbyterian Church Hall next to the Durham Lead School but none of Email contributions and advertising for the Church. Just to confuse the issue, the Durham Lead Catholic Church was located next the Buninyong & District Community to the Garibaldi School and the Garibaldi Hotel was advertised as being at Durham Lead. News to [email protected] Garibaldi photos would also be welcomed. before the twelfth day of each month.

If anyone can help, contact Neil McCracken on 5341 2308 or [email protected] Enquiries: 0439 300 756

ADVERTISEMENT Proudly supporting the Buninyong community

211 Dana Street, BALLARAT VIC 3350 JOSHUA MORRIS MP PO Box 553, www.joshuamorrismp.com.auBALLARAT VIC 3353 State Member for Western Victoria t. 03 5332 9443 f. 03 5338 7033 Authorised by Joshua Morris MP, 211 Dana Street, BALLARAT VIC 3350 [email protected]

6 Buninyong & District Community News Edition 418, August 2015 LOCAL NEWS Fresh look for local website

The Buninyong community website recently has had a major overhaul The Buninyong website has been visited giving it a fresh new look and making it easier to use on mobile “ nearly 200,000 times in its lifetime with devices. The new site will replace the numbers growing daily… it now reaches the old one around the end of July, but will keep the same address - more than 3,000 people each month. www.buninyong.vic.au Most of the material on the old site ” has been transferred to the new one, accurate and up-to-date as possible cemetery, health practitioners, bus with some rearrangement here and would be appreciated. timetables and more. there; new material has been added and more sections are underway Local input and update information is It is obviously a well-used resource to expand its already huge store of critical and contact can be made with for locals and visitors alike: let’s information about Buninyong. the Buninyong Website Group any make it a good one. time through the website’s Contact The new site will continue to house Liz Lumsdon Us page, by emailing bunlibtrust@ online copies of the Buninyong & Buninyong Community Website Group gmail.com, or via the Information District Community News and a Centre. All feedback is welcome! Buninyong Blog is planned. Popular The Buni website is run by Update details the Buninyong Website Group, The Buninyong website has been a sub-group of the Buninyong Members of local community groups, visited nearly 200,000 times in its Joint Library Trust which or those running a business in lifetime with the numbers growing manages the Buninyong Buninyong and district, are asked daily so that it now reaches more to check that the listing and contact than 3,000 people each month. Information Centre in details are correct in either the Warrenheip Street. People use it to search it for all sorts Community Groups’ Directory or in of things - accommodation, market Site development and the Business Directory. dates, the festivals, the football club, maintenance is by Buninyong If you know who’s who, what’s the Community Newsletter, hiring the local, Liz Lumsdon of what, and where to find it around Gardens for a wedding, café hours, UpThere Website Design, Buninyong, your help in pointing local history, Mt. Buninyong, tennis with support from George out any errors or omissions in results, church services, walks, the Fong of Lateral Plains. the website so we can keep it as community bank, electricians, the

Edition 418, August 2015 Buninyong & District Community News 7 BUSINESS

Buninyong and District Community Bank Proudly Australian owned and truly Where does the independent money come from?

The Buninyong and District sponsorships and grants, which equates to Community Bank always talks about more than $200,000 in the last five years. ‘where the money goes’ in terms of the sponsorships that are given to So this is how something as simple our community. So the questions of as banking at a Community Bank can ‘where the money comes from’ and create such a big difference. Why not ‘how we are able to do this year after contact the local branch, located at year’ are important ones. 401B Warrenheip St, Buninyong or call 5341 8066 to have a confidential So what’s different - why can the discussion about your banking needs. Buninyong and District Community Bank and Community Bank branches across Greg Veal the country put money back into local communities? The difference is what’s called ‘shared value’ and is the foundation that each and every Community Bank branch is based upon. Profit becomes ‘profit with a purpose’ which in the case of the Buninyong and District Community Bank means contributing to the growth Buninyong and prosperity of this community.

How this works is once the typical expenses of running the business (franchise fees to run a Bendigo Bank, wages, operating costs and so on) are BREWIN IMPORTS BREWIN IMPORTS accounted for, the amount left is ‘profit EUROPEAN GLASS IMPORTS EUROPEAN GLASS IMPORTS for purpose’. Stunning glass from Stunning glass from Compared to the other banks, where Venice, Malta and Ireland Venice, Malta and Ireland the majority of their profit is returned 7594 Midland Hwy, Magpie 7594 Midland Hwy, Magpie to shareholders, Community Bank (opp Buninyong Cemetery) (opp Buninyong Cemetery) shareholders agree at the outset to Buninyong Pre-school Trivia Night. Ph: 0418 251 063 Ph: 0418 251 063 receive only a minimal share, leaving For enquiries please contact Lucy Open Thurs to Sat: 10am—5pm Open Thurs to Sat: 10am—5pm the majority (around 80 per cent) for Murphy – 0408 501 229 or Kate Proud – reinvestment into the community via 0411 607 482.

A home loan At Buninyong and District Community Bank ® BREWIN IMPORTS BREWIN IMPORTS Branch we’re offering great deals on home loansE UROPEAN GLASS IMPORTS EUROPEAN GLASS IMPORTS that’s the start tailored to suit your needs, with interest rate Stunning glass from Stunning glass from dscounts and reduced fees. of something Venice, Malta and Ireland Venice, Malta and Ireland bigger. Drop into our branch located at 7594 Midland Hwy, Magpie 7594 Midland Hwy, Magpie 401B Warrenheip Street, Buninyong (opp Buninyong Cemetery) (opp Buninyong Cemetery) or phone Greg or Randall on 5341 8066 Ph: 0418 251 063 Ph: 0418 251 063

to find out more. Open Thurs to Sat: 10am—5pm Open Thurs to Sat: 10am—5pm

bendigobank.com.au

All loans are subject to Bendigo Bank’s normal lending criteria. Fees, charges, terms and conditions apply. Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Limited, ABN 11 068 049 178 AFSL/Australian Credit Licence 237879 . S47285-6 ( 212655_v2 ) (24/11/2014 ) BREWIN IMPORTS BREWIN IMPORTS EUROPEAN GLASS IMPORTS EUROPEAN GLASS IMPORTS 8 Buninyong & District Community News Edition 418, August 2015 Stunning glass from Stunning glass from Venice, Malta and Ireland Venice, Malta and Ireland 7594 Midland Hwy, Magpie 7594 Midland Hwy, Magpie (opp Buninyong Cemetery) (opp Buninyong Cemetery) Ph: 0418 251 063 Ph: 0418 251 063

Open Thurs to Sat: 10am—5pm Open Thurs to Sat: 10am—5pm

BREWIN IMPORTS BREWIN IMPORTS EUROPEAN GLASS IMPORTS EUROPEAN GLASS IMPORTS Stunning glass from Stunning glass from Venice, Malta and Ireland Venice, Malta and Ireland 7594 Midland Hwy, Magpie 7594 Midland Hwy, Magpie (opp Buninyong Cemetery) (opp Buninyong Cemetery) Ph: 0418 251 063 Ph: 0418 251 063

Open Thurs to Sat: 10am—5pm Open Thurs to Sat: 10am—5pm

Open Thurs to Sat: 10am—5pm Open Thurs to Sat: 10am—5pm BUSINESS Goose to fly with new feathers

After a period as an upmarket The entrance to fine-dining restaurant, the dining room Buninyong’s Pig and Goose is will be through about to ‘reopen’ with a new look the original and a new food emphasis. double doors facing Warrenheip Owner-chef Clive Kirby and wife Street, while Wendy have now taken over full the present ownership of the venue and, while entrance will be retaining a modified restaurant, retained for food plan to introduce a clear emphasis purchases and on the sale of a wide range of fine more casual coffees and dining. food products. Introducing changes more family- Clive said that the premises will be It is planned to introduce some oriented, with a “more family-oriented, with a more “ antique furnishings in amongst the affordable dining and drinks menu, present modern minimalist dining more affordable in addition to offering a wide range settings, convert the area near the of food products”. It probably will dining and drinks fireplace into a relaxing lounge area, retain its present name with the upgrade the outdoor terrace with menu, in addition addition of ‘General Food Store’ to much more greenery and plantings, its signage. to offering a and use corrugated iron cladding “We plan to move to the restaurant/ on the front and sides of the wide range of food store model in stages,” he said. existing bar. food products New showcases will be installed Some quirky wall decorations will highlighting such foods as local ” include some of Clive’s menus from cheeses and jams, charcuterie items, other restaurants where he has He said that the revised dining menu home-made terrines, pates and worked, and copies of media articles will feature main courses in the rillettes. Pies, paninis and pastries and reviews he has received for his $14-$26 range, with the wine list baked on site will also be featured. acclaimed cooking. consisting of a much more Other items for sale will include fresh affordable selection. The new-look Pig & Goose-General flowers and selected vegetables. Food Store will be open from He said that the changes had come Pre-prepared takeway meals such as Tuesdays to Sundays for breakfast about after feedback from clients, casseroles, pastas and curries will be and lunch, with dinner available on and after a period of “testing” the available. After a settling-in period, Friday and Saturday nights. Clive local market, but added that the Clive Kirby also plans to offer cooking Kirby said that it is also planned to new look store was “what we really classes for adults and children. offer a roast lunch on Sundays. wanted to do from day one!”

Edition 418, August 2015 Buninyong & District Community News 9 LOCAL NEWS

HOW WELL Chance to buy DO YOU KNOW shares in local Bank BUNINYONG? An occasional Community News quiz compiled by Ashley Bryden. In 2008 moves were started to a short establishment period, has Answers on page 17. investigate the establishment since been returning generous sums in of a community-owned bank in community investment to local groups 1 The number of times Robert Allen Buninyong under the auspices of and organisations. To date, almost was elected Mayor the Bendigo Bank. The previous $200,000 has been returned to the 2 The surname of the first person to bank in Buninyong had closed community, earned from the operating discover gold in Buninyong in 1974. profit of the community bank. 3 The name of the road where the Buninyong Winery is located Before the Bendigo Bank would give Dividend approval for the establishment of a 4 The main building material used Since 2013, the company has also community bank in Buninyong, working to build the Holy Trinity Anglican capital of approximately $700,000 declared a dividend payable to its church shareholders. had to be raised through the sale 5 The surname of Buninyong’s well- of $1 shares to local residents and Shares in Buninyong & District Financial known blacksmith organisations. Services are publicly listed and 6 The name of the postmaster in 1855 During 2008-2009, the local volunteer tradeable on what is referred to as Committee working towards starting the Low Volume Share Market (LVM) 7 The hotel destroyed by fire in 1884 and local residents are advised that the community bank was required both 8 Variety of Scotsburn Winery’s some small parcels of shares are now to have a prospectus approved by the award-winning wine Australian Securities and Investment available for purchase. 9 Month in which Good Life Festival Commission (ASIC) and then to sell Details about buying shares can be held shares to raise the required capital. found on the website bendigobank. 10 A festival held on a weekend in May Some 230 residents and some local com.au/buninyong. Click on the 11 Place where are entries in ‘Trading Shares’ (LVM) button on the organisations purchased shares and Buninyong’s Marmalade Festival left hand side of the screen. became shareholders in the company sent for judging (Buninyong & District Financial If after review of this information and 12 City to the south able to be seen Services) which operates the locally- consultation with your professional from Mt Buninyong on a clear day owned Buninyong & District Community advisor you would like to register an Bank branch. 13 Main building material used in the interest in buying shares, you should Scotsburn Union Church The local community bank was contact the Company Secretary Neil 14 First names of the owners of Trials on 0437 363 961 or make subsequently opened at its Warrenheip Blanchard Bikes shop Street site in August 2010 and, after email contact to [email protected]

10 Buninyong & District Community News Edition 418, August 2015 COUNCIL NEWS Shock Council resignation ASK Eric Braslis - Councillor Peter Innes friend to Buninyong The monthly column where you can ask your questions about Council With the recent resignation of matters. Email your question to Eric Braslis from his position of [email protected] City of Ballarat Manager, City Infrastructure, Buninyong has lost a I am a great supporter of retaining strong supporter of local community Buninyong’s natural and unmade roads such as Cathcart St (south). projects in the district. But after heavy rains lots of debris For several years, he has worked closely and gravel is washed down Scott St and enters the storm water system. and cooperatively with the Buninyong & Can you get someone to look at this District Community Association (BDCA) please? Harold, Scott Street and other groups such as the Bowling Harold, thanks for the question, it is Club on a range of local community important for us to address your issue improvement projects including the and I invite you to email me or ring me upgrade to street furniture, the street on 0407 539 683 with more details of vines project, the upgrade of the the problem. I will make a time, along bowling club, and the present Town Hall with Council Officers, to meet you on site and look at ways to address the issue. Precinct project. Your problem may also relate to the issue Eric, 49, came to Australia in 1994 from raised in the letter below. his native Toronto, Canada. He has been A farewell coffee in Buninyong I have noticed that most parts of with the City of Ballarat for some five Ballarat’s CBD suburbs seem to have years following sixteen years in senior a street sweeper come by on a regular planning and infrastructure roles with and groups there had a clear vision for basis. Doesn’t seem to be the case in Hobsons Bay City Council and with the improvements to the village and were Buninyong (and certainly not in those City of Stonnington. He has also had persistent enough to be successful with parts not in Buninyong’s ‘downtown’ area.) Would be good if you can press experience as a private sector planning most of them. Many things don’t happen quickly with Councils,” he said. for regular attention to Buninyong’s consultant and as a part-time lecturer at streets too. Charles, Simpson St La Trobe University. Convenor of the BDCA Township projects I agree that street cleaning is an issue and we at the City of Ballarat must not forget He leaves to take up the position of sub-committee, Barry Fitzgerald, the outer parts of our Municipality. I spoke CEO of the Gannawarra Shire Council in said that Eric Braslis in his senior management role with Council has proved with staff today and was informed that Kerang commencing in late July. the street sweeper visits Buninyong on to be a ‘straight-shooter’ who made his a monthly basis. Whilst this is not nearly Speaking with Buninyong & District time available to meet with those trying enough, we will however, commence weekly Community News recently, Eric Braslis to move on Buninyong projects and often visits when our new footpath sweeper said that he enjoyed working with the took the trouble to make on-site visits to commences. Keep a record of when the Buninyong community “as local people the village to discuss them. sweeper does your street and let me know.

BDCA meets City planners As a follow-up to its written submission to Council concerning the report Ballarat Strategy: Our Vision for 2040, the Community Association met with senior Council Planning staff on 13 July. Shown are Terry Demeo – Manager Planning Implementation (left) and James Guy – Senior Strategic Planner with BDCA Secretary Gayle Adams.

Edition 418, August 2015 Buninyong & District Community News 11 LOCAL NEWS Gardens luncheon EXPERT ADVISES ON GARDENS TREES REMOVAL

When he was Director of the Royal Botanical Gardens, Sydney some ten years ago, Dr Tim Entwhistle was faced with implementing decisions about the removal of a number of large trees in the Sydney Domain.

In spite of the lengthy and well considered process leading to this decision, and efforts to inform and engage with the public, a huge media and political backlash ensued.

Among other charges he was he was vilified as a ‘murderer’. Eventually reason prevailed. Ten trees were removed, and the replacement trees, planted in informal groups rather than avenue form, are now thriving. Guest speaker Dr Tim Entwhistle (L) takes a photo of FBBG members Richard Patterson and Chris Hindhaugh displaying some old garden tools. FBBG Now Director and CEO of the Royal President Anne King watches from the stage. Botanic Gardens Victoria, Dr Entwhistle was guest speaker at the Winter The current proposal is to leave seven to take responsibility for the destruction Fundraising Luncheon of the Friends of poplars in place. However, Tim stressed of much loved trees but this Friends the Buninyong Botanic Gardens (FBBG) how difficult it can be to interplant young Group looks forward to working with the held in the Town Hall in June. trees beside mature specimens, where City of Ballarat to develop an appropriate they have to compete for light, water ‘succession plan’ to remove and replace Timely and nutrients. progressively, thereby ensuring the long Tim’s presentation was particularly term future of a well treed Buninyong He explained how in some circumstances timely, given the age and condition of Botanic Gardens. it makes sense to remove additional many of the trees in the local Buninyong (possibly currently healthy) trees to For more information and membership Botanic Gardens. Earlier this year maximise the successful development enquiries contact FBBG Secretary the City of Ballarat arborist and Risk of replacement planting. This approach Karen Hulston 5341 3947, or for the Management division together appraised is especially relevant for formal avenue history of the gardens and news of the group of white poplars near the plantings where it is desirable for trees to regular activities and coming events Memorial Garden in the old baths. match in scale. visit the FBBG website at This area has been temporarily fenced off www.buninyong.vic.au/gardens.htm In coming years it is likely that more old pending removal of nine of the large tree trees in the local gardens will require Anne King, President FBBG trunks deemed to be a potential danger. removal and replacement. No one wants

12 Buninyong & District Community News Edition 418, August 2015 LOCAL NEWS Another chapter for old Shire offices

When the Kennett Government decided on wholesale who after giving amalgamations of Victorian local government authorities initial consideration in 1993-94, the Shire of Buninyong was then integrated to setting up into the City of Ballarat. The former Shire Offices in a restaurant Learmonth Street which had been constructed about ten there, have now years earlier, soon became redundant. reconfigured and refurbished Since then, the offices have sat vacant for considerable the premises to periods, and have seen a succession of occupants and owners become a business including Marriott & Tol Accountants, Buninyong Real Estate, and professional Porter Plant, and A W Nicholson. centre with self-contained or serviced offices. In the early stages of planning for the Buninyong Community It has been given the name of Village Place Buninyong. Bank the various bank working parties and then Bank Board held their meetings in the spacious Boardroom courtesy of Already Foundation Law has relocated its offices there, and Tim Porter. This Board Room is now available for hire by another health related business will soon be moving. businesses or community groups. With construction works now completed, local residents are Some twelve months ago the property was purchased by invited to inspect the building at an ‘open day’ on Thursday Buninyong businessman Gerard Ballantyne and his son Sam, 30 July from 1.00pm.

Invitation to all interested and curious residents to inspect VILLAGE PLACE BUNINYONG the former Shire Offices in Learmonth St Buninyong, now with a new future as a CORPORATE BUSINESS CENTRE Drop in for a look around at the newly-completed furnished offices and suites, the boardroom, and the lounge areas

THURSDAY, 30 JULY 2015 from 1.00pm to 6.00pm

Edition 418, August 2015 Buninyong & District Community News 13 LOCAL NEWS

Good Life Festival Activities Markets, coats, buskers and BBQs

Community Groups BBQ A community BBQ is held each Village Market, an event managed by the Good Life Festival Committee. These BBQs provide an opportunity for a local community group to raise funds. At the 28 June market, the Story of Buninyong team raised funds towards the Grade 4 Buninyong Primary School local history/arts program.

If your community group would like to book the community BBQ for a market this year please contact Secretary Lisa Cressey on [email protected]. The next Community Market is scheduled for Sunday 26 July (9.00am to 1.00pm) with the theme of Christmas in July.

Coats for Kids Appeal Eureka Mums collected coats for local kids in need at the June market. The appeal aims to collect 300 new Volunteers Wanted! and secondhand coats between June 1 and July 31, in The Good Life Festival Committee of volunteers is always sizes 0-10. Check out your cupboards and storage boxes open to new members and now is a great time to join. to support this important local project and bring them People of all ages are welcome. down to the next market. The Good Life Festival is a volunteer run event that involves Buskers wanted the organisation of a major local annual festival and also The Committee is keen to encourage Buskers to perform manages the monthly Buninyong Village Market. People at the Buninyong Village Markets. Musicians, Singers, interested in helping out are encouraged to join - whether Painters, Poets… anything goes! Please call Miranda on it be by just lending a hand on the day or helping out 0409 954 283 to book a spot… all ages encouraged. throughout the year.

14 Buninyong & District Community News Edition 418, August 2015 PEOPLE Graeme – a true friend of Nepal

and then-young national politician, Natasha Stott-Despoja. POLICE BEAT He now visits Nepal annually for TWO MALES were arrested by periods of between two and four police recently in Mount Pleasant weeks, where the work of his teams in relation to the theft of two – now operating under the auspices motorcycles from an unlocked shed in Magpie on 10 June. The value of of the group he set up in 2011, the bikes was approximately $7,000. Aussie Action Abroad – has been Both males will face the Ballarat focussed on the district of Lamjung, Magistrates Court in July. some 100km west of Kathmandu. ON JUNE 12 Ballarat detectives Projects there involve work in executed a search warrant in Lal Lal health, education and other forms of where they located a hydroponic The massive earthquakes that hit crop of cannabis and a quantity of Nepal in late April 2015, killing community development. ammunition. A 33 Year old male was more than 9000 people, injuring arrested and was bailed to appear at Six teams the Ballarat Magistrates Court at a some 25,000, and flattening later date. villages leaving hundreds of In December 2015, Graeme will again visit Nepal with six teams involved LOCAL CFA crews and police thousands of people homeless, recently attended a call out in shocked the world. with reconstruction work, agriculture Scotchman’s Lead Road in relation and community health. to a fire inside the roof cavity of a But its impact on a Buninyong man residence. The flames were quickly was direct and emotionally shattering. This time they will be based in Gorkha contained and the residents were (the area where the famous Gurkha uninjured. With the cold weather now Graeme Kent has spent the past here, all residents should ensure that fifteen years travelling to, working in soldiers came from) and where 80 heating systems have been properly and educating people about Nepal, per cent of homes had been flattened serviced, and be vigilant with wood by the earthquake. The group will be heaters, especially when you’re not a country he has come to love after at home. first travelling there in 2000. self-sufficient, staying in tents, but assisted by local people engaged as BETWEEN 13 and 14 June, four When he heard the news of the vehicles were broken into in Nolan guides and cooks. and Hedrick Streets, Buninyong. earthquake, Graeme said he was A computer tablet, tools and “devastated” and literally “bawled my “While the major relief agencies such communication equipment were eyes out” and wanted to “get up and as Red Cross and Oxfam operate stolen. Unfortunately, three of the on a massive scale, our groups are four vehicles were unlocked at the go immediately”. His most recent, time. Police reiterate the need for and twenty-seventh visit there, was more concerned with working directly owners to secure their valuables soon after the earthquake in June. with local Nepali people at the outside of their cars and ensure community level,” he said. vehicles are locked at all times. His links to Nepal started in 1999 FACTS ABOUT car thefts! Older when he was CEO for the Duke of The woman now heading up the vehicles still make up the majority Edinburgh’s Award in Victoria and he operations of the Red Cross in Nepal of car thefts, with more than 60 and involved with the setting up of per cent of thefts being of vehicles was involved in organising ten teams manufactured prior to 2000. The top of people who went to Nepal to assist hospitals, had approached Graeme theft targets reflect this, with the with various forms of community in 1999 when she was a homeless, humble Hyundai Excel Hatch being unemployed single mother who had the most targeted small car and development work. He was greatly the Holden VT Commodore is the assisted in the early stages by well- scratched together $500 to join one most commonly-stolen large car. If known figures such as Edmund and of the first teams to visit Nepal. “Hers you have an older vehicle consider has been an amazing story,” he said. installing extra security such as Peter Hilary, Tim McCartney-Snape a steering wheel lock or engine immobiliser.

Edition 418, August 2015 Buninyong & District Community News 15 BUSINESS

Two new businesses open Shoes, keys and quality imported glass now here

shopping centre franchise Mr Minit. In addition to the shoe and watch repair services, the shop carries a full range of shoe care products, watch bands and batteries, pet tags, and remote controls for cars and houses.

QUALITY GLASS A unique business dealing in high- end quality imported glassware has also recently opened in premises on the Midland Highway just opposite the Buninyong Cemetery, where the Bower Bird Cottage was previously.

Former Qantas flight attendant Brett Wintle has moved this exclusive glassware business, Brewin-European Lisa Nguyen and Yuspin Wheeler with daughter Nheena in their new Glass Imports, from Sydney Road, Buninyong shop Brunswick to the Buninyong site. He The booming Buninyong opened the Brunswick store in 2009, commercial scene has been We really loved the after “becoming sick of living out of a boosted by the opening in suitcase” for the seventeen years he early July of two new and quite “feel of Buninyong, worked for Qantas. different businesses. and thought the golf His store has a huge range of fine Maxx Multi Services, operated by Lisa course was terrific glassware, glass jewellery (bracelets, Nguyen and Yuspin Wheeler has pendants, cuff links and the like) and an opened in the old Eagle Hotel building amazing range of giftware made from Warrenheip Street in the premises their way back to Melbourne through” the quality glass formerly occupied by Foundation Law Buninyong village rather than using the His glassware is exclusively imported (next to the BP service station). route they knew through Sebastopol. from Murano, the famous Italian Yuspin is a highly experienced shoe “We really loved the feel of Buninyong, ‘glassware’ island just off shore from repairer, key cutter, engraver and and thought the golf course was Venice, from the ancient cities of watch repairer. He and Lisa operated terrific, and decided then and there Valetta and Mdina in Malta, and from a similar business in Keilor for some to investigate a move to the district”. Waterford in Ireland. sixteen years before recently moving Daughter Nheena, aged 11, now The Waterford glass is from the Irish to Mt Helen and opening up Maxx Multi attends Buninyong Primary School. Hand Made Glass Company which was Services in Buninyong. Maxx Multi Services (phone 5341 started up some five years ago by Their coming here was “an accident” 2783) will fill a business gap in the five top tradesmen from the famous when, after playing golf at Buninyong town with its range of services being Waterford Crystal factory which closed last year, they decided to try to find very similar to those offered by the in 2009. It has since reopened.

16 Buninyong & District Community News Edition 418, August 2015 BUSINESS

Letter to the editor

Old Buninyong Boy Before joining the Army some 38 years ago, I spent the first nineteen years of my life in Buninyong. I am a member of the Innes family, my mother being Beverly Innes before her marriage. Mum is buried at the Buninyong Cemetery along with my brother Mark. What are the chances of receiving copies of your Newsletter when they come out? They would be greatly appreciated. I still have a heap of relatives Brett Wintle shows off a piece of high quality Murano glass (left) together with who live in the town, and it would two examples of quality Malta glass vases be great to read about what is happening in Buninyong. Brett makes an annual buying trip to from just $20. The price of some high these centres in Europe to select and quality unique glass pieces ranges over Major Bryan Bunney, Gallipoli import his amazing range of glassware $2000. The store is open Thursdays Barracks, Enoggera, Qld to Sundays from 10.00am to 5.00pm. Despite the quality of the fine glass Phone 0418 251 063. products in the store, the prices start

HOW WELL DO YOU BUNINYONG NEWSAGENCY KNOW BUNINYONG? 501 Warrenheip Street, Buninyong ANSWERS Ph: 5341 2154

1. Five 2. Hiscock 3. Platts 4. Bluestone 5. Caffrey 6. John Adams 7. Sellecks Hotel 8. Pinot Noir 9. October 10. Film Festival 11. Cumbria 12. Geelong 13. Wood Newspapers, Tattslotto, Petrol, 14. Cass and Trent Car Wash, Dog Wash

Edition 418, August 2015 Buninyong & District Community News 17 LOCAL NEWS News

Edition 415, April 2015 Edition 415, April 2015 beats A Tale of Theft, Ships and Junk Yards MYSTERY OF THE FIRE BELL Courier Recently there has been an intriguing processing plant had come across a bell twist in the case of the Buninyong inscribed “Buninyong 1883” – 1883 fire bell stolen after the 1898 fire was the year that the two-storey fire which destroyed the two storey station had been built building which had been built fifteen But then the plot thickens again. At the years earlier in 1883. Sims plant, the metal of the bell was The bell at the fire station was used not analysed and found to be 80 per cent tin by three only to alert people of a fire in the and 20 per cent copper –the village, but also was rung in times of composition of bronze. Usually, local disasters such as a search for a ‘inland’ bells were made of brass or missing person. iron, while bronze was used in maritime When the bell went missing after the situations because of its anti-corrosive 1898 fire, just the tongue of the bell properties. was left behind. Shipping Twist Then, in the 1960’s, former Fire Further research has found that there months Captain George White found a bell was a small passenger ship called resembling the missing one in a junk “Buninyong” which carried passengers yard in Brunswick. But when he between Sydney and Melbourne from stolen one or from the scuttled ship still returned there with the tongue from the about 1883 to 1924. The ship was remains. Buninyong Fire Station to see if it scuttled in 1926 in Port Phillip Bay. Brigade Captain Marc Cannan said that fitted, the bell had again gone. The SS Buninyong had been built in Buninyong & District Community News if indeed the bell was the one stolen in Barrow-in-Furness in England, also in Now, after 117 years, the bell may be 1898, its return after some 117 years back home. 1883. was “little short of a miracle”. beat The Courier to that interesting So while the ‘Buninyong 1883’ bell is A few months ago, the Brigade was Captain Cannan said that while now safely back at the Buninyong Fire contacted by Peter Weeks of Sims historians were still trying to sort out Station, having been presented to the Metal Management of Noble Park who the mystery, the 1883 bell was now story about the missing Buninyong Brigade by Sims Metal Management, told the Brigade’s Captain Marc occupying a proud place amongst the Cannan that workers at their metals the question of whether this bell is the brigade’s memorabilia. “While we have fire bell by about three months. stopped just short of popping the champagne corks until any other information comes to light, it’s still a great story!” he said. The News ran the story as the

lead to the April 2015 edition. The In this Issue Special inaugural 20 page edition Courier followed with a very similar ANZAC Centenary Tribute 15-17 Ask Cr Innes 11 Buninyong Film Festival 7 story on page 2 of its 9 July edition. Opinion 5 Police Beat 3 Street Talk 6

The News won’t win all the time but we are in touch with happenings in the Buninyong Community.

18 Buninyong & District Community News Edition 418, August 2015 LOCAL NEWS Mountain burn off coming

In the early part of Spring a controlled burn will be conducted on Mount Buninyong to protect essential communications infrastructure there in the event of a wildfire.

The burn will be conducted by the During the July school holidays Buninyong resident Mandy Sharp with her children, Department of Environment and Callum, Toby and Zac were taking their dog Paddy up to the Mount only to find the Primary Industry (DEPI) during the track temporarily closed because of the preliminary works for the burn off. (Photo cooler months. Russell Luckock)

Preparations for the burn were made the telecommunications tower used The road to Mount Buninyong was in early July with the removal of by Telstra, Ambulance Victoria, Police temporarily closed on 6 July while hazardous trees around the 3.7 ha site and CFA as well as the DELWP fire the dangerous trees were removed which will involve a crescent shaped lookout tower on the mount. in preparation for the coming area on the eastern side adjacent to controlled burn.

Edition 418, August 2015 Buninyong & District Community News 19 LOCAL NEWS Lucky escape for couple from Buninyong house fire

A couple had a lucky escape when their house in Wirreanda Drive caught fire and was burnt out last month. The Buninyong district residents managed to get out on to their roof through a window but both suffered smoke inhalation when the husband finally managed to get his semi- conscious wife out with the help of a neighbour. The couple was taken to hospital.

Anthony Pearce from CFA Media said that, on arrival, they had helped to rescue the couple from the roof and then attacked the fire in the two- storey mud brick house which was Incident Controller, Matt O’Brien (right), from CFA Buninyong directs operations at well alight as the fire was burning in the Wirreanda Drive house fire. readily-flammable stored material. The difficulty in accessing adequate Fire units from Buninyong, Fifteen units water supplies was a particular Mt Buninyong, Haddon, Elaine, Some fifteen CFA units attended, problem with this fire. A dam at the Mt Warrenheip, Sebastopol and including Ballarat City’s Ladder back of the block was inaccessible so Ballarat amongst others attended Platform truck which was used to other part-full dams nearby were used the fire which took several hours to attack the fire from above. This unit for a while until water tankers could control. Ambulance paramedics from can pump 4,000 litres a minute be organised. Buninyong CFA’s Collar Ballarat, Wendouree and Sebastopol when required but access into the tank was situated on the road outside were also there. The Incident roof was difficult as holes had to the house and was being refilled by a Controller for the fire was Matt be cut in the corrugated iron with constant stream of tankers. O’Brien from Buninyong CFA. On a power saw and then the fire the radio co-ordinating trucks was The mud brick walls of the house kept at bay as fast as possible. An Gareth Smith while driver Kenneth made it very hot inside, according excavator was subsequently used to Bell and crewman Taylor Connell to firefighters who had to search tear away smouldering debris so it manned Buninyong CFA’s tanker. could be extinguished. inside with breathing apparatus. It seems that the lack of fire-fighting water in some semi-rural areas is an issue that may need to be addressed. CFA has invested heavily in new and powerful fire-fighting equipment that Gareth Smith, is quickly on the scene of a fire. But Buninyong they can only operate effectively CFA with the with adequate water - wherever a fire Buninyong tanker. happens to start.

Russell Luckock

20 Buninyong & District Community News Edition 418, August 2015