Elpho Info

Spring 2019 Volume 83

The Community Newsletter of Elphinstone

Inside...
Things on...

+ ELMA Update
CFA Update
News from EFC
EPA Update
Wildlife Whispers
Elphinstone Playgroup
From the Archives
Message from our Councillor
Health Corner
Recycling Tips
Black Horse Therapies
Whats happening at Elphinstone
Primary School
Elphinstone Locals Rally For Cancer

Elpho Info is printed with the generous assistance of

Mt Alexander Shire Council & Print Together.
Printed on 100% Post Consumer Paper
 Things on,
around and
about... Local events
Open Edible Gardens - www.kynetondaffodilarts.org.au
(Includes three gardens in Taradale on Saturday)
Sat 7th & Sun 8th September
Crikey! Elphinstone’s Community Op-Shop (see page 5 Ad)
Sunday 8th September
Sunday 20th October
Sunday 10th November
R U OK? Day - www.ruok.org.au
Thursday 12th September
Metcalfe Tractor Pull and Woodchop (see Ad to left)
Sunday 15th September
Malmsbury Village Farmers Market Launch
Sunday 15th September
Taradale Monthly Produce Swap- 3rd Saturday of each month
More info Colleen 0403 744 045
Next - Saturday 21st September 2pm-4pm
Global #ClimateStrike - https://www.schoolstrike4climate.com/
Friday 20th September
Malmsbury Village Fayre
Sunday 17th November - 10am to 4pm - $2 entry

Water Deliveries & General Cartage Local Garage Sales

10,000 Litre Water Loads Let me know if you have a garage sale coming up.
Grass Slashing elphoinfo@gmail.com
John Growcott 0407 506 666

Like to see your ad in Elpho Info?

Contact elphoinfo@gmail.com

2 Elpho Info
 ELMA UPDATE (Elphinstone Land Management Association)
Winter Solstice
Our annual winter solstice event was
held on Friday 21st June at the Rec Reserve.
Once again, we had a great turnout of locals
as well as some visitors from Chewton and
Castlemaine, proving that the event has really
cemented itself on the Elphinstone calendar!
The bonfire proved challenging to light after some heavy rain a couple
of weeks leading up to the event but the tarp covering part of the
bonfire was protection enough to light it and keep us warm well into
the evening. Once again, delicious soup was enjoyed by all but didn’t
last long which may explain a quick trip to the pub for takeaway chips
and gravy by one event goer! Thanks to everyone who came along – it’s
a wonderful opportunity to catch up with some familiar (and not so
familiar) faces. Trees before
Kangaroo: A Love Hate Story
A few ELMA members were treated to a special winter screening
of the award winning investigative documentary, Kangaroo: A Love
Hate Story. The screening took place at regular Elpho Info contributor
Nikki Medwell’s property in Elphinstone, where Nikki runs B&B
accommodation as well as a wildlife rescue shelter. This ground
breaking film reveals the truth surrounding Australia’s love-hate
relationship with its beloved icon and was both shocking and revealing.
The film also screened more recently at The Theatre Royal Castlemaine.
I would highly recommend it if you get a chance to see it.
Diggers Way weed management plan
In recent weeks, V-Line has cleared and levelled out the rubble
north of the railway crossing (opposite Urquhart Street) and removed
the three dead trees and huge cypress tree following a formal request
from ELMA. We are grateful that this was carried out without delay
Trees after
and the area looks much improved as a result. V-Line has also begun
preparatory work along Diggers Way to remove cape broom and of 20 additional seedlings and mulching the entire area. We have a few
blackberry by slashing. V-Line recognises our efforts in managing seedlings to plant at the arboretum which will see the completion of
roadside weeds and their commitment to weed control in this area plantings this year.
further enhances the work we’ve carried out to date. As a main entry Membership
point into town, this project will see the area return to its natural state Membership is $20 per year per family and forms are available at
by encouraging native seedlings to thrive. the post office if you’d like to become a member of ELMA. Check out
On the Ground our Facebook page for regular updates and events. Our next meeting is
The war memorial garden is looking great following the removal of our AGM on Thursday 21st November at 7pm at the pub.
a couple of black wattles which had reached their expiry date, planting

Elpho Info Editorial

‘How good are the blue sky days of Spring!’ The Spring edition of
The Elpho Info has an extra spread taking it up to 16 pages this time.
I hope to keep it here adding new writers and articles. Our usual
important community groups have updates... ELMA, EPA, EFC,
CFA, EPS (Elphinstone Primary School) and Playgroup alongside
our contributors, Nikki from Red Box Wildlife Shelter talking about
our amazing wildlife, Susan speaks gut health, Helen has dug up
something a tad fishy from the archives and Elizabeth talks Equine
Assisted Therapy. I found Elizabeth’s approach to helping people with
issues such as anxiety, depression and stress refreshing and with
‘R U OK’ day coming up, quite appropriate. Mental health is having a
greater and greater impact on society and rural regions are suffering
more than our city folk.
One of our locals, Trinity from the Loddon Mallee Waste
and Resource Recovery Group, has contributed a great piece
demystifying some of the do’s & don’t of recycling. Make sure you
have a look at that one and remember Mt Alexander’s recycling is
handled by Veolia which are still processing at their Echuca facility.
Christine Henderson expands on that point and the critical recycling
situation in Australia at the moment.
We have our own Elphinstone Op-Shop starting up out at the old
cricket club once a month with all proceeds going to charity. There
will be coffee and cake and being next to an oval, the kids can kick
a ball so please go down and support the crew - see page 5 for more
details and donations welcome. I had in mind some kind of repair
group which might work in conjunction with the Op-Shop repairing
bits and pieces that might otherwise go to landfill. Let me know what
you think or if you can help, elphoinfo@gmail.com or I will be down
at the Op-Shop on its open days.
I’ve started a ‘What’s On’ column and it’s a bit bare this time but
let me know any local events so I can pop them in and I thought
maybe local garage sales would be good too. New articles and writers
welcome. email - elphoinfo@gmail.com  Matt

Elpho Info 3
Elphinstone CFA Update News from Elphinstone
In the lead in to summer and before the bush fire season, you’re
probably planning to tidy up your property and do some burning Facilities Committee
off. It’s important that you register your burn off with emergency
services. Members of the public seeing your fire can call it into The Elphinstone Hall and Recreation Reserve has seen two
000 as a fire incident. If your burn off is registered it reduces successful community events this Winter. ELMA hosted the annual
unnecessary CFA call outs. Winter Solstice bonfire behind the Arboretum with hot soups on
the stove and marshmallows to roast on the coals. Plenty turned
To ensure that the fire services are aware of your planned burn,
up on one of our coldest nights to enjoy the spectacle and warm
please give the Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority
themselves by the bonfire. More recently we hosted a Friday family
(ESTA) prior notification by calling 1800 668 511 and providing the
movie night at the hall with 30 people turning up for soup, pasta
required information. This includes your name, address, contact
and popcorn while lounging in front of a movie.
phone number, size of pile being burned and the time of the planned
burn off. Coming into Springtime, Susan Lintott will be hosting a
pop-up café and op shop at the Cricket Club. Come down for the
It’s also a good idea to inform your neighbours before you have
inaugural opening on Sunday September 8th, 9am-12pm and a
a burn off.
kid’s kick-around. Watch the noticeboard for further information.
Every two years, CFA brigades hold elections for brigade roles.
We have a couple of building projects in the pipeline having
In the AGM this year Elphinstone brigade members elected the
been allocated funding to build a Long Table at Sawpit Gully
following members into brigade roles:
to complement the existing BBQs and seating and allow larger
• Captain – Andy Chapman
groups to sit together in the space and are working towards kitchen
• First Lieutenant – Gary Pollard
renovations to the existing kitchen at the Elphinstone Hall.
• Second Lieutenant – Phil Mune
• Third Lieutenant – Kerry Coulthard Hall booking rates are $100/day, $50/half day. We’ve introduced
• Fourth Lieutenant – Mike Gottschalk a new rate of $20 for under 2 hours use, to encourage more
• Community Safety Officer – Lynette Hills regular users. Contact elphrechall@gmail.com to discuss or make
• Secretary & Treasurer – Gerard Kelly. a booking.
Special thanks to Mark Ware for fulfilling the role of brigade Sam Downing
treasurer for the last 12 years. Secretary, Elphinstone Facilities Committee
The CFA has recently introduced new Breathing Apparatus
(BA) equipment for firefighters for use at structure fires and other
incidents where there are breathing hazards. Brigade members
with BA accreditation are now trained in the use of the new BA
equipment.

Elphinstone Hall
Elphinstone brigade will be celebrating its centenary in 2021 and
planning is underway for a celebration of this significant milestone.
Brigade member Helen Gramberg is the Centenary Co-ordinator.
Helen is busy researching the history of the brigade with a view
Olivers Road, Elphinstone
to having photos and memorabilia on display. If you have any fire
brigade related historical items, please let us know. Features
And finally, the brigade is always on the lookout for new - Large car park - Main hall is 20m wide x 40m long
members, particularly locals who are likely to be available in - The flooring is polished floorboards - 95 chairs - 20 tables
business hours through the week. If you’re interested in becoming a - Full kitchen with oven, cooktop, urns, kettles,
CFA volunteer please call Captain Andy Chapman on 0408 507 770 pie warmer & two large refrigerator
or Secretary Gerard Kelly on 0402 456 758. - Comprehensive crockery, cutlery & coffee/tea cups for 80 people
- Sound equipment - Two large gas heater
- Two playground, one with sandpit - BBQ trailer, fully equipped
- Internal toilets, with showers
- Ramp access to hall, with disabled toilets
Fees and charges
Half Day $50
Full Day from 9am - $100 (including equipment below)
2 hrs & Below - $20
Grounds (Outside of Hall) access to two Playgrounds - $50
Trestle tables - $10 - Chairs - $1
Crockery & Cutlery - $1 per setting - Pie warmer - $30
BBQ trailer 24 hr - $55 (Gas Bottle Refill via Elphinstone Post Office/Milk Bar)
Plus $50 bond or each item above
Contact: elphrechall@gmail.com www.facebook.com/elphrechall/

4 Elpho Info
Update from the Elphinstone
Progress Association, Inc. (EPA)
Elphinstone Town Centre Makeover
After years of raising issues, having plans drawn up and
campaigning for funds we are pleased to announce that some things
are finally going to be done in the ‘Town Centre’ of Elphinstone!
By the end of September you should notice a change to the
western side of the Wright St rail crossing. This will include hiding
or getting rid of the pipes sticking up out of the ground, fixing the
uneven ground, the inadequate drainage, and finally installing a
pleasing top layer. The EPA would like to thank Mount Alexander
Shire Council (MASC) and VicTrack for their work on this.
Secondly, MASC has assigned $33 500 to the Town Centre
streetscape. Following on from plans we have had in the works for
some time, and also considering how best to spend this sum, we have
asked MASC to use the money on the following projects:
1) Getting an engineering design done for a curb, footpath and new
base for the bus stop area. This is the first step that we need to then be
able to use the plan to put in a budget submission to MASC towards
the end of 2019 and/or to apply for a grant with a third party.
2) The worn wooden edging around the war memorial ground will be
replaced, as well as the two wooden seats around the memorial and
the flag pole. MASC will also investigate the installation of a tap for
watering the grass and the fabulous plantings that the Elphinstone
Land Management Association (ELMA) maintains next to the
memorial. In the dry summer months ELMA volunteers actually
drive trailers full of buckets of water and then hand water the area, so
we do hope that a tap can be installed!
3) Since the western side of the rail crossing is being rejuvenated we’ve
asked that the eastern side be fixed up to match – at least so that the
top layer is the same on both sides.
4) Tree plantings on Wright St opposite the bus shelter and towards
Diggers Way (as per the Town Centre Plan plan). If money is left
over after items 1-3 above then this can be discussed for a May-June
2020 planting. The EPA would consult with ELMA first if this were
to happen since that group has already done such a great job of other
planting around town.
So things are really happening in the EPA group. Our next
meeting is on Monday 16th September, 7:30pm at the Elphinstone
Hotel. Come along and have a chat. If you want to attend EPA
meetings but find that the time never suits you please let us know –
epa@elphinstone.net
EPA memberships are $5 per household for a year and
membership envelopes are at the Post Office.
Elphinstone History Group
The EPA is seeking expressions of interest from people who
might like to be involved in an Elphinstone History Group. Whether
you are new to the area or whether your family has generations of
mementos to share, we’d love to know if you are interested. Please
email epa@elphinstone.net

rik e y ! AJ CHAPMAN
CElphinstone’s community EARTHMOVING
OP-SHOP Andy & Kath Chapman & Girls
Calder Hwy, Elphinstone, 3448
A once a month Op-Shop with For all your Backhoe &
coffee, cake & kick of the ball. Tip Truck requirements
At the old cricket club next to the Quarry and Road Supplies
Elphinstone Recreation Hall. Grader hire
Opening September 8th
Driveway & House Sites
9am - 12 midday Andy has 30 years local
Upcoming dates knowledge & experience
October 20th & November 10th
For Further information phone:
All Spring profits donated to
Friends of Lolotoe, East Timor 0408 507 770
or 5473 3294
For enquiries - Susan 0401 76 4050
s.a.lintott@gmail.com

Elpho Info 5
Wildlife WhispersBy Nikki Medwell
As we welcome in Spring, please remember that this is a time
when most animals are welcoming their offspring.
I’ve seen a few warnings circulating amongst city friends about
“swooping season” for our lovely magpies with their unique warble,
but with the magpies here and nesting close to the house, I’m
wondering if it’s a city problem, because we have never experienced
any swooping from our feathered neighbours. Have you?
If it’s a space thing, then I feel sorry for what remains of our
native animals trying to survive in cities and it makes me appreciate
even more of what we have out here in the country. We are the last
defenders of our flora and fauna. We must embrace our role as a
community and come up with ideas and solutions that challenge
modern day answers. As Sir David Attenborough so aptly put it;
“How could I look my grandchildren in the eye and say I knew about
it – but did nothing?”.
Recently a member of the public phoned in a distressing scene of
5 large male kangaroos all vying for the attention of 1 female doe that
had a joey in her pouch. The competition was fierce and continued
for what seemed an eternity for not only the doe, but the distressed
woman witnessing the scene. She tried to scare off the males to give
the female some reprieve but they would only return.
When exhaustion eventually sets in, the doe will not have the
energy to keep her pouch muscles contracted and she risks her baby
falling out and it being trampled by the males. How distressing for
any mother to not be able to protect her child.
So why was this happening? The males were not alpha males but
large, testosterone filled young bucks. This is the result of the killing
of our alpha males, (the largest males who were born with the alpha
gene) who are the protectors of the mob. They are wonderful fathers, Ney Ney had returned to have the support of her “mum” which
gentle and loving towards the young and protect the females from in the wild, she would’ve had. But I was it. A sad substitute for a
situations just like this one. species that forms incredibly tight family bonds.
Recently I spotted an alpha move his family to safety when a fox For the next few months we got to see Ney Ney’s pouch start
settled down for a nap nearby. With his young bucks, does and joeys to fill out. When we last spotted her, her pouch looked like it had a
safe out of harm’s way he watched over that fox until I chased it away. small tennis ball in it……then on her next visit it was flat. Ney Ney
(I was out for a walk) had lost her baby. We don’t know why or how but a female Eastern
Grey kangaroo is lucky to replace herself once in her lifetime and
After ferocious storms we have witnessed the alphas gather lost first-time mums have a high rate of loss. This is how it is in their
joeys and keep them together until the mothers re-appear out of the structure and it could be nature’s way of saying; “You are too young,”
confusion. or simply be their way of controlling their own population numbers.
A doe goes into season for about 3 days and if mated with, will Something they have successfully managed over 16 million years.
give birth to her joey in approx. 30 days. This tiny jelly bean then has To be asked to sit in on anyone’s birth is a real privilege and I was
to make its way from the cloaca to the pouch. It only has developed humbled that I had even been considered.
hands and fingernails and is totally blind, since it develops inside the
pouch, and is the equivalent of a premature baby in the womb. Once She did mourn. We could tell. She came “home” more often and
inside the pouch it finds the teat and latches on. An incredible feat would simply put her head on my shoulders and be still. There are no
and incredible instincts for something so small. words that can comfort a mother that has lost a child. None. So silent
hugs are what we offered.
Back in March, a young doe named Ney Ney that we had raised
and released returned one morning acting distressed. It was 4am For the moment she is now Aunty to other does joeys in her mob.
so pitch black. With only a phone I followed her into the darkness, All the females are “Aunties” and help each other with their offspring.
knelt beside her and gently asked what was wrong. With her hands They make incredible mothers. They are with their babies around the
on my shoulders I felt her body convulsing, yet did not sense fear. I clock and keep them clean and tolerate being jumped all over when
guessed she was giving birth. In the quiet, the dark and the stillness the little ones are feeling playful.
I could see her mob in the distance illuminated by the outside lights The does teach their little ones danger by calling (clicking) them
of the house. No-one was moving. They waited as I sat there doing back into the pouch at the sight or sounds of danger. Like if a car
little more than offering support thinking to myself; “If anything goes past, you can hear the does calling their youngsters back to
goes wrong here, I have NO idea what to do!”. Luckily these amazing safety.
animals have been giving birth without human intervention for Our state government seems to think they are nothing more than
millions of years. pet food. How wrong they are. If you’d like to know more, please

6 Elpho Info
 email us at elroos3448@gmail.com or Google; “Ray Drew Kangaroos
May 2008”.
This is about to commence in Victoria come October 1st. Cruelty
and fear on a level seen back in the 60’s. Fifty years later we are
still encouraging the suburban sprawl, cutting roads through our
land and slicing up properties. Human population and population
sustainability need to be addressed for all our sakes. Everyone wants
to leave the country to the next generation in a better state than what
we inherited. Flora and fauna are the answer to a healthy country.
Being in the unique position as custodians, we have a chance to leave
the world a better place.
Isn’t our wildlife amazing?
• Male magpies will protect their nests from the time the eggs are laid
until the young birds are fledged. A magpie can recall & remember
a person’s face for up to thirty years. If a magpie trusts an individual
human they will never swoop. So be nice to your magpies & talk to
them in a friendly way or simply take another route for about 6 weeks
• Wombats can breed every two years and produce a single joey. Did
you know the wombats pouch faces backwards so the joey is looking
out the backend? This is to avoid mum scratching dirt into the pouch
when digging
• Echidna’s hibernate over winter (in cold climates) and reappear in
Spring to breed. The female will lay a single egg into a small indentation
on the abdomen, which forms three days prior to birth. When the
youngster (puggle) gets too prickly to carry around, mum will dig a
burrow for it to live in & it is weaned at about 7-8 months old.
Following the release of Kangaroo A Love Hate Story on DVD we
have had many lovely supporters donate copies to us.
The invitation to watch a screening of it here, away from the main
house and in a private setting still stands, but we are now also in a
position to loan outJancopies which can be returned
Feb by dropping themMar
in our letterbox or requesting a reply paid mailer so all you need to
‘18 do is put it in the mail. We can post you 56 a copy or drop one off.9Let us
‘19 know what works for you. It really is that
14 easy: elroos3448@gmail.com
15
Please slow down on our roads at dusk and dawn and hold your
hand on the horn if you see animals near the road. All wild animals
have acute hearing and will hop away from the sound of a horn
blasting. This is the peak time for our wildlife to be on the move.
Keeping an old pillowcase, a cardboard box and the numbers at the
bottom of this article in your car could mean the difference between
life and death.
If you suspect our wildlife is being killed (poisoned or shot),
please contact DELWP on (03) 5430 4444 and if the shooting is local
and close to your home, the Castlemaine Police can be reached on:
(03) 5470 4100.
We are also happy to keep track of these events if you wish to
inform us. Consistent behaviour is often sought after by DELWP
with investigations. I am putting this here as “information only”
because I do not suspect our community to be part of such cruelty.
Let these words sink in…….
“Killing is often the first response to solve conservation problems.
But if genocide is taken off the table, a whole new set of creative
solutions emerge.
The primary responsibility of humans is to change our individual
lives so that all other animals can live once again in dignity and
freedom.” – G.A. Bradshaw.
Wildlife groups and shelters are always in need of help from the
public. Please consider getting involved. No matter how small the
time block is you have to offer.
I hope what we share with you here helps you learn and realise
how lucky we are to share this region with such unique animals.
With thanks and gratitude to our readers and supporters,
Scott and Nikki Medwell,
Red Box Wildlife Shelter, Elphinstone VIC
Have any questions for us? Or topics you would like us to cover? Elphinstone Ra
Then drop us a line: elroos3448@gmail.com
Apr May Jun
25 Wildlife Emergency
13 numbers: 91
7 Wildlife Victoria:4(03) 8400 7300 111
WRIN: 0419 356 433 (Central Victoria Region)
WRES: 0427 301 401 (Central Victoria Region)

Rainfall
Elphinstone Rainfall in mm’s - Comparing 2018 to 2019 end of August
120

111

91 92
96
72

59 55 62
56 53
49
40 41
48

31
25
15
24

14 13 12
9 7 4
0

‘18 ‘19 ‘18 ‘19 ‘18 ‘19 ‘18 ‘19 ‘18 ‘19 ‘18 ‘19 ‘18 ‘19 ‘18 ‘19 ‘18 ‘19 ‘18 ‘19 ‘18 ‘19 ‘18 ‘19
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Elpho Info 7
 M M ER You are
invited
DRU DED
Jam Se to our m
ssions onthly
at Elph
NEE ELPHO JAM SESSIONS
These sessions are informal get-togethers of people who want to make some music and have some fun!
instone
.

Aimed at the over 50’s, but open to all.

We play Electric Blues, R’n’B, 60’s, Rock & more...
Sessions: 3rd Saturday of the month (1:00pm - 4:00pm) For more information: email: elphojamsessions@gmail.com

The next Elpho Info is the Summer/December edition 2019

Articles and advertising for the Summer 2019 edition of the Elpho Info are due by Friday November 22nd 2019 to
elphoinfo@gmail.com or via the Post Office.
All community contributions are welcome.
For advertising prices and enquiries email elphoinfo@gmail.com or grab a form at the Post Office.
The Elpho Info is a member of the Community Newspapers Association of Victoria and can be read online at: www.elphinstone.net
Find us on Facebook | search Elpho Info or visit www.facebook.com/ElphoInfo
Elpho Info is published by the Elphinstone Progress Association and is produced by volunteers. Elpho Info is printed on 100% post-consumer recycled paper.
Contributions of news items, articles, photos, ideas and letters are welcome as are advertisements which help to cover production costs.
Circulation is currently 300. Thank you to Mount Alexander Shire Council for their continued support in the form of advertising.
Elphinstone Info wishes to advise that the views or remarks expressed in this publication are not necessarily the views of the editor or of the Elphinstone Progress
Association. No endorsement is implied by the listing of advertisers, sponsors or contributors. We are not liable if there are any mistakes or inaccuracy.

8 Elpho Info
Handy Hints to Better
Recycling By Trinity Mawson
More than ever before it is important that we all do our bit to not
only recycle as much as possible, but to recycle in a way that assists the
processors to operate as efficiently as possible. By doing this we can help
the Material Recovery Facilities (MRF’s, known as Murfs) to recovery
more and extend the life of our landfills.
Here are some ways you can help.
Plastic lids are something that continues to confuse some people. If
the lids are large, such as from a peanut butter jar, then they can go in
the recycling on their own or attached. The same goes for metal lids on
glass jars.
Smaller plastic lids that are on drink bottles should be screwed
back onto the bottle. Obviously, it is important that the bottle is empty.
Un-attached lids are too small for recycling machinery and cannot be
processed. You can put plastic detached lids in your general waste bin.
It also helps if you can squeeze a bit of the air out of the bottle before
putting the lid back on. This does two things: It gives you more room in
your kerbside recycling bin and helps avoid compressed cubes of baled
plastic breaking open due to air expansion.
Aluminium foil can easily be recycled. Make sure that it is clean,
just a wipe usually does the trick. Next ball it up and save it somewhere
such as in a coffee cup. Continue to add more foil to the ball which will
grow and grow. When it is the size of a tennis ball you can put it in your
recycling bin.
A lot of meat these days comes in rigid plastic tubs. These are mostly
Elphinstone Post Office
and General Store
5473 3200
Weekdays 7:30am - 5:30pm
Saturdays 8:00am - 1:00pm
Sunday 8:00am - 12noon
Public Holidays 8:00am - 12noon
Gill and Dave
Myotherapy/Remedial Massage
Relaxation & Deep Tissue Massage
Trigger Point Therapy
Lymph Drainage Massage
Muscle Testing and more
All this is available on your doorstep at Sutton Grange
Contact: Vivien Pells
Assoc.Dip.App.Sc.(Myotherapy)
0412 882 402
recyclable. Check the container for a number in the triangle, if it has
a number 1 - 6 then it can be recycled, if there is no triangle or it has
number 7 then it could be a composite material and goes in the waste
bin. Make sure that you peel the soft film from the top, a little bit stuck
to the rim is okay. Remove any absorbent pads, they go in the waste bin.
Generally, you don’t need to wash your recyclables, but rinsing meat
trays is a good idea to prevent odours and remove any residual fluid.
Polystyrene is not recyclable through your kerbside bin, even if it
has the triangle number symbol on it. Provided that your polystyrene is
clean, then there are a small number of locations in the Loddon Mallee
Region where you can take it to be recycled. These can be found by
downloading the Loddon Mallee Waste Ap.
Broken drinking glasses are another item that some people
mistakenly put in their recycling bin. This type of glass has undergone
a manufacturing process and become ‘toughened’. Therefore, it melts
at a different temperature to glass bottles and jars, so contaminates the
recycling stream. Wrap broken glasses up in paper in place in the waste
bin. Window glass should also be treated this way.
A final tip is to never place you recycling in plastic bags. The soft
plastics take extra time to open on the sorting line, causing inefficiency
and they can jam the machinery which delays the whole process and
can cause damage.
While this is just an overview, there are many more items that can
cause confusion. For a complete list of items and how to dispose of them
correctly, you can download the free Loddon Mallee Waste App. Go to
your app store and search “Loddon Mallee”.
For further information on recycling in your region you can visit
the LMWRRG website or contact Project Officer Trinity Mawson on
0407 738 968.
Caring for our environment by reducing waste to landfill.
LOCAL HORSE DENTIST
Bob Franze
(Dip Equine Dentistry)
Phone 0418 346 830
Prompt and reliable service
covering all areas
Elpho Info 9
From the Archives
H. Gramberg With thanks to Castlemaine Mail and Elliot Midland News.
SOMETHING A TAD FISHY...?
I want to cast something your way, but I would
not expect you to buy it, hook, line and sinker,
unless your grandparents lived in Elphinstone as a
youngster, because it’s about one that got away.
That’s right! The Elphinstone District Anglers’
Club.
The club was formed in 1908, and the inaugural
President and Judge was Mr W. W. Smith. Mr R. T.
Oliver served as the Honourable Secretary for the
whole duration of the club’s existence. His father, Mr
Robert Oliver, served as the President from the 3rd
year of operation. The committee also included; Messrs
Ellis, McLure, Roberts & Callahan.
The wonderful artefact pictured here is a Member’s Ticket
issued 110 years ago, in the Club’s 2nd year.
The object of the club was to stock the Coliban River between
the Malmsbury reservoir and the river’s junction with the Campaspe,
thereby providing excellent fishing for trout and perch, and
many fishing competitions were subsequently held in a number
of locations along the Coliban, such as at Mactier Bros.’ Stratford
Lodge estate.
The season would wind up with a social evening, Cards and
games were indulged in, and songs and duets were rendered.
Refreshments were handed round by the ladies, and the trophies
would be presented.
The club disbanded in 1934, owing to lack of members.

Welcome to your local

Featuring our own Elphinstone Cider,
Elphinstone Pale Ale and Sawpit Ale.
Catering for gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan,
plus steaks and all your pub favourites.
Open: Wednesday to Friday 3pm,
Saturday and Sunday - 11am
Lunch: Saturday and Sunday 12:30pm
Dinner: Wednesday*, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 6pm
Courtesy pick-ups & drop-offs Thu - Sat nights (bookings essential)
* reduced menu

5473-3165 info@elphinstonehotel.com.au

TheElphinstoneHotel elphinstonehotel

10 Elpho Info
A message from
our Councillor
One of council’s core responsibilities
is garbage collection. Like most councils,
Mount Alexander Shire has a contract with a
waste management company, in our case Veolia.
Veolia’s trucks drive around the shire collecting household waste on a
weekly basis and recycling fortnightly. The waste goes to the council
landfill in Castlemaine and the recycling goes to Veolia’s facility near
Echuca. Although our recycling is still being collected for the time
being, the writing is on the wall for all councils in Australia. And
why is that? This country does not have adequate processing and
manufacturing industries to reuse our so-called recyclable materials.
Instead of investing in these at state and national levels, developing
technologies and maturing our community recycling techniques,
we’ve gone with the cheap and easy option of exporting our recycling
to Asian countries, principally China. And now China has closed the
door. So what are we left with?
Let’s start with glass. It’s infinitely recyclable, meaning that
there’s no end to the number of times that a glass bottle or jar can be
crushed and turned back into a new glass container. Recycled glass
products also need less energy to make them than new ones. But –
there’s always a ‘but’ with recycling, there’s a cost in sorting glass into
different colours. So how much of our thrown out glass gets turned
into new containers? Probably very little. These days crushed glass
can be also used in road making and in concrete, which is good
news, though we’re a long way from reusing all our glass waste.
Paper and cardboard can be re-pulped and turned into office
paper, toilet paper, packaging, egg cartons etc. Again there’s less
energy involved than producing new paper from trees, as well as
the small matter of avoiding cutting down trees. But it’s a ‘messier’
process, requiring the skimming off of ink, plastic mixed with the
cardboard etc. and hence more expensive, especially if there’s no
levy on the use of new materials. So only a fraction of the paper and
cardboard that goes into our recycling bin actually gets turned back
into useful material.
Steel and aluminium are valuable materials in our recycling,
with reprocessing being a small fraction of the energy cost of
manufacturing from raw materials. It would be nice to think that we
do currently have places in Australia where most of our metal waste
is converted into new product. Or have we lost even that technology
as we happily shipped all scrap metal to China, collecting good
money for it?
That leaves the big baddie, plastic. These days we all know just
how bad plastic is. Ocean pollution has reached alarming levels,
affecting the fish we eat, damaging birdlife, ocean creatures such as
turtles. Things aren’t much better on land. And how would we-will
we-manage without plastic? There are so many different types of
plastic which complicates the business of recycling this wonder and
horror material. It must be sorted before any reprocessing can take
place. Once again, there are products made from recycled plastic,
such as park benches and other public furniture. But where are the
milk bottles, the coke bottles made from recycled materials? Too
expensive.
So what’s the solution? Federal government to introduce
legislation to require all products, including packaging, to be
reusable, recyclable or compostable? At least fifty percent of all
packaging to be made from recycled materials? Councils to introduce
single-stream recycling collection points-households sorting their
cardboard, glass (by colour), plastic and metal and delivering to large
skips at central points? Environment Victoria have some good ideas
on their website. (https://environmentvictoria.org.au ). Meanwhile I
suggest that we can all do something right now. We can take a close
look at everything we throw away, regardless of which bin it goes in.
Then ask, how can I cut down? How can I throw away less? And of
course, if you haven’t already got one, now is a good time to get that
compost bin. Repurposing our food scraps is something we can all
do at home, and when you feed a veggie garden with the compost, it’s
the ultimate recycling.
4t excavator / tip truck
bobcat / kanga hire
- house & shed site cuts
- trenching / drainage / driveways
- landscaping / stone work & design
- post hole augers / various sizes
- supply road gravels
- all general earthworks / hourly hire
- taradale / elphinstone & surrounds
- contact: vange
- po box 53, taradale, 3447
- email: vaeearthworks@gmail.com
Elpho Info 11
Health Corner By Susan Lintott
Is your gut bacteria in balance?
If you experience digestive symptoms such as constipation,
bloating and gas, or your immune system lets you down, you may
be feeling the effects of imbalances within your gut microbiome.
Describing the trillions of bacteria, yeasts and other microorganisms
that colonise your digestive tract; these mini soldiers support health
and wellness by regulating your digestive processes, bowel function
and immune health. Restoring balance in the microbiome can help
you get on top of your health again.
How do I correct my gut balance?
You may have heard that taking probiotics can have a positive
impact on your health. A daily multi-strain probiotic formula
that contains a handful of carefully selected organisms can have
widespread benefits in maintaining optimal digestive and
immune health.
Of the many effective probiotics, the following bacterial strains
work synergistically to maintain everyday health:
Lactobacillus acidophilus (NCFM): reduces abdominal pain by
influencing receptors within the gut, and supports healthy immunity.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus (HN001TM): has immune boosting
properties to reduce chances of infection. Bifidobacterium animalis Keep on top of your stress. Have you ever noticed your digestion plays
ssp lactis (HN019TM): aids gut motility to relieve constipation and up during stressful periods? Through a complex network of nerves
keep you regular. and tissue, it’s a two way street as the gut and brain communicate
The great battle of the bugs with each other; also influencing your digestive and immune
Whilst some probiotic strains are effective in maintaining function. Stress busting techniques include gentle exercise such as
everyday health, there may be instances that require a more yoga and pilates, regular meditation and ensuring you achieve 7 to 8
comprehensive approach. Poor diet, stress and overuse of antibiotics hours of restful sleep each night.
are some of the drivers that can alter the composition of the Be mindful of pharmaceutical overuse. Whilst over-the-counter
microbiome, leading to a myriad of digestive and immune ailments. medicines may be required in some circumstances, unnecessary
In these instances, probiotic strains that influence resident gut overuse of these agents may compromise the microbial balance
bacteria and promote restoration of the microbiome can get you back within the gut.
to your fighting best. To ensure victory, strike while the iron is hot!
Nourish your inner army Daily use of a multi-strain probiotic to maintain optimal balance
Whilst probiotics are invaluable in maintaining a healthy may give you the fighting-edge to improve digestive health, reduce
microbiome, the following diet and lifestyle measures also support gut pain and constipation, and enhance immunity.
optimal gut and immune health: Whether you need to wage war and restore the microbiome or
Minimise your sugar intake. Eat less canned food, breakfast cereals, wave the white flag for peace and health maintenance, you can talk to
baked goods, desserts, sweetened dairy products, condiments, fruit your Elphinstone Naturopath, Susan Lintott, about which probiotic
juices, lollies, chocolate and fast foods – these often contain sugar is most suitable for your individual circumstances and what foods
which encourages the growth of harmful pathogens in the gut. could benefit your health.

BLACK HORSE THERAPIES

Equine Assisted Therapy & Narrative Therapy
Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine
Powerful yet sensitive, horses give us
immediate feedback about our inner feelings,
and at the same time accept us totally. Susan Lintott
Elizabeth Hannah
Graduate Diploma Counselling & Psychotherapy
Naturopathy
Practitioner Diploma Acupuncture
Nutritional and herbal medicine
Kyneton, Vic. Dietary and lifestyle advice 0401 764 050
Email: blackhorsetherapies@westnet.com.au Relaxation and deep tissue massage info@susanlintott.com
Web: blackhorsetherapies.ntpages.com.au Ph. 0403753221 Located in Elphinstone www.susanlintott.com

12 Elpho Info
Black Horse Therapies
 By Elizabeth Hannah
Black Horse Therapies offers a unique blend of Equine Assisted
Therapy and Narrative Therapy. Elizabeth finds that these approaches
make a powerful combination for helping people of all ages with
issues such as anxiety, depression and stress, as well as emotional
regulation and general wellbeing.
Elizabeth’s interest in Equine Assisted Therapy began 6 years
ago when her mare Millie came to her and it became a dream, a
passion and a goal. This led her to complete a Graduate Diploma in
Counselling & Psychotherapy as well as Narrative Therapy training
and training in Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Her approach with horses is a natural horsemanship one. She Elizabeth and Millie
trained with Dave Mellor from David Mellor Horsemanship in
Eppalock. relationships with people. Abilities and strengths the person didn’t
know they had may be recognised and this can lead to an increase in
Elizabeth has a background in Chinese medicine and offers
self-worth and confidence. Concentration and focus can be improved.
acupuncture as one of the therapies provided by Black Horse
Therapies. She is experienced in treating people with emotional Clients also practise assertiveness and leadership without
issues. aggression.
What is Equine Assisted Therapy? Who would benefit?
Equine Assisted Therapy involves interacting with a horse and Since the therapy is carried out through activities with horses
reflecting on these experiences. much of it is non-verbal and it works for people who find it difficult to
talk about their problems, as well as young children. It is found to be
Benefits:
particularly effective for young people who can’t fit into a mainstream
Through the activities in the horse yard clients learn to be aware
counselling setting and is used with those who have a diagnosis of
of their emotions and to regulate them. They also practise finding a
FASD, autism & ADHD.
place of calm in a situation which might be difficult or challenging.
They do this by focusing on the horse, practising self-awareness and Over and over again people say to us “Being with horses makes
regulating their breathing. me feel calm”.
The horse provides immediate and non-judgemental feedback Black Horse Therapies is located on a beautiful property
regarding a person’s inner feelings. near Kyneton. You can find out more from their website:
blackhorsetherapies.ntpages.com.au or by contacting Elizabeth via
The skills learnt in the horseyard can then be applied to
email: blackhorsetherapies@westnet.com.au or phone: 0403753221

Councillor Listening Post at the Elphinstone Post Office

First Friday of the Month
9:00am to 11:00am
Local ward councillor Christine Henderson is available at
the Post Office to meet with residents, hear about any
council-related concerns and answer questions.
Come and have a chat.

Macedon Ranges Massage

26 Piper Street, Kyneton, 3444

Cheryl Duffus 0475 560 131

Nancy Webster 0438 318 080
By Appointment Only

Elpho Info 13
What’s happening at
Elphinstone Primary School
Goldfields Soccer Carnival at Chewton
Last term we combined with Chewton Primary to play in the
Goldfields Soccer Carnival against other Castlemaine and district
Primary Schools, including Castlemaine North, Castlemaine, Winters
Flat, Carisbrook and Taradale. We thank the Goldfields Soccer Club for
hosting the day and we look forward to continuing the tournament in
the future. Our school was represented by Fianna, Miranda, and Riley.
Mid-Year Concert
We held our very first midyear concert in June and we had many
families come in and enjoy the music and afternoon tea, including most
of our local playgroup. A big thanks to Drew Thorpe for coordinating
the event and showcasing our student’s musical talents. Drew takes
private lessons at school and we employ him to take our music class
once a week.
Somers Camp
We welcome back our Somers campers this week and by all reports
they had a wonderful experience and have met lots of new friends—
some of whom will be classmates at CSC next year! We look forward to
hearing and seeing what Julian, Niamh, Wilkie and Kane got up to!
Goldfields Football 2019
Students from Elphinstone, Maldon, Newstead and Chewton
combined to form the Castlemaine Small Schools team in the Goldfields
Carnival held, for the first time, at Wesley Hill. We had a great day and
every player played their part! Tegan was one of our best players for
the day – she currently plays for Kyneton in BJFL. We won most of our
games played against schools such as Harcourt and Campbells Creek.
Castlemaine Secondary College Transition
The grade 5 and 6 students went to Castlemaine Secondary College
and learn to test for a base, acid and Iron. In the science class it was fun
because we had to test the MYSTERY SOLUTION to find out what it
was made out of. Some of the mystery solution had a base (that’s dark
blue) or it might have iron in it (that’s white) or acid (that’s orange).
“My favourite out of all was the Bunsen burner when we had to test
for strontium. That’s when a liquid is put over a flame and if the flame
turns bright red it identifies the liquid.” By Riley Girvan (Grade 5)
2040 Documentary
Our students attended the documentary ‘2040’ at the Theatre Royal
and it formed a large part of class discussion and work for the week. The
film skipped backwards and forwards from 2040 to 2019 and looked
at all of the positive technology and scientific solutions to many of the
environmental issues we face. I hope you enjoy reading some of the
students’ responses to the film:
“What I liked most about 2040 was the marine permaculture. It was a
rack of recycled plastic with seaweed growing from it. The seaweed grows
half a meter a day, reduces acidity in the ocean and could be a substitute
for grain and food. The weight of the seaweed pushes the rack so the tops
only just touch the surface. I would like to see in 2040 more young women
going to school and getting educated like the men do in some countries.
Another thing I liked was the micro grids in Bangladesh and how they
can share the power with one another because of small orange boxes
called solar boxes. The solar boxes connect to their solar panels and when
someone wants power you can either share your power or sell it.”
“I liked the idea of turning massive, abandoned car parks into
gardens and park spaces.” - Miranda (Grade 4)
14 Elpho Info
“One of the things that amazed me was seeing the driverless car.
I would be scared if I was in the car. The reason I liked the driverless
cars was because I think they would be good to be used in the future for
sharing cars. And that the film told us that many cars just sit around and
do nothing for most of the time. My favourite thing about the day was
probably that in the movie kept on switching to the 2040 then to 2019
and seeing the difference of the times. And there was a different actor for
the girl in 2040 and 2019. The thing that I would like to see when I am 31
years old is that I hope that my child will have a good life as well as a clean
environment to live in. Fianna (Grade 5)
“One of the things that captured my attention was the solar powered
micro grids in Bangladesh. I really liked the idea of a community where
you can share, buy and sell energy because it connects everyone. They
said that before the micro grids they had no electricity and if they waited
for the Government to do something, they would be waiting for a rather
long time. Other great things about the micro grids are: they cost less
than actual power lines and they are uniting people and creating small
communities where people can share and sell when they go on holiday
or are away on a business trip. One problem is the solar powered micro
grids are illegal in some countries, because the Government wants people
to buy the electricity they produced, instead of electricity that the people
have ‘control’ over. My favourite part was the glimpses into a green and
good 2040 with all the amazing advanced technology and all the plants!
Everyone was on bikes or in shared transport. When I am 33 I would like
to see hover boards because that would be really cool.” -Niamh (Grade 6)
Leadership Day
We, along with Julian and Fianna, learnt how other schools in
our area, solve the problems they have like: rubbish, bullying and not
enough student voice. They had some really good ideas, and we decided
to work on our student voice. We all enjoyed the brain breaks and
meeting new people. We were in groups with other kids from other
schools (Campbells Creek, Castlemaine North and South and Harcourt)
and we would do all these activities together. Some of our favourites
were: The Giant Three Legged Race (it wasn’t three legged, it was, like, a
nine legged race) and the River Crossing, where we had to cross a ‘river’
using bandanas. We thought it would be a good idea to have more grade
6 days and even add a grade 5 day, also adding a time for student lead
learning, where students teach the class about something they enjoy.
We want to get students involved in teaching a class of their choice
every fortnight to do something different that includes and engages all
students! - Niamh and Wilkie (Grade 6)
Elphinstone Playgroup
We have been painting, creating, drawing, having fun and
building friendships over the last few months. With sunny days
starting to return, we have begun to venture outside to the sandpit
and play equipment.
Playgroup is a great way for families to meet and build
connections with other people living in the area. It is for children
aged 0-Kinder and their parents/carers.
We meet every Tuesday morning of the school term from 9.15-
11.15am. You will find us at the Elphinstone Recreation Hall in
Oliver’s Lane. Bring along $3 and a piece of fruit to share. Tea and
coffee is provided.
If you are new to the area, come along. We are a very friendly
group of people, with kids who love to play!
For more information contact Katie Mawson 0435 450 810
 Elphinstone Primary School

Elphinstone Playgroup

Elpho Info 15
Elphinstone Locals Rally
Brian delivers parcels in Castlemaine for Australia Post and Julie has
been the Girl Guide Leader for over the last 20 years and are looking
forward to the October rally.

For Cancer “We look forward to being able to get out on the road and help all those
teams that have fundraised for the Cancer Council. Being a support team is
a privilege that we take very seriously – although we are sure there will be
Shitbox Rally 2019 Spring will be held October 19th to October 25th, loads of fun too!” Julie explains.
travelling from Melbourne to Townsville via Birdsville. Shitbox Rally is a
To participate each team must raise the minimum of $5000 and the
challenge to drive cars worth $1,000 or less across Australia via some of its
Elphinstone crew need your help!!
toughest roads to raise money for cancer research. This remarkable event
has raised more than $15.7 million since the first rally in 2010. If you would like to donate please see the links below, all donations
over $2 are tax deductable and the money raised is going to a great cause.
Participating in the 10th Rally, are two teams made up of born and
bred Elphinstone locals that are taking the wheel and raising funds for this GOOD LUCK to Erin, Larna, Brian and Julie.
worthy cause. The Wiggum Unpossibles -
Erin Colley and Larna Chapman (Team - The Wiggum Unpossibles)  https://2019spring.shitboxrally.com.au/the-wiggum-unpossibles
are completing the rally as one of the 200+ rally teams and making it a Support 18 - https://2019spring.shitboxrally.com.au/support-18
family affair, Brian and Julie Colley (Team - Support 18) are going along Website - https://www.shitboxrally.com.au/the-event/
for the ride as a support crew.
“Preparations are well underway, we have our car, have started our
fundraising and we are really looking forward to the challenge. It is going
to be an amazing experience; one that we are privileged to be able to
participate in.” says Erin.
Box Rallies Founder James Freeman said Shitbox Rally is not a race,
but a reward for fundraising efforts. “This is a chance to explore Australia,
drawing teams from around the country to help achieve the extraordinary.
Shitbox Rally 2019 Spring will be another epic rally and the last in our
10th year. The route will take us through parts of drought affected outback
Australia, so we can add revenue back into the community. Heading
North, the terrain and landscapes will change dramatically each day. It will
be an iconic rally with some exceptional stopovers before our final 10-year
party in Townsville to celebrate the conclusion of one huge year! We’re
grateful for the support of the teams who take part and the communities
who help them to fundraise.”
“Community support is what makes this rally so successful. Being
brought up in Elphinstone has instilled a sense of community in us and we
are really looking forward to being able to pass this on when we are driving
through remote areas to give it back. Any kind of donation big or small to
this worthy cause would be fabulous!” explains Erin. The Wiggum Unpossibles - Support 18 -
Erin Colley & Larna Chapman Brian & Julie Colley

FREE screening
Red Box Wildlife Shelter
invites you to watch a
screening of ‘Kangaroo
Makers of Traditional & Contemporary A Love Hate Story’ at the
Puddings to enjoy all year
shelter or in your own
Available from Maxi IGA Castlemaine, homes for free.
Kitchen Door Sales &Tasting direct to public.
Workspace Castlemaine DVD’s can be loaned out,
Room 24, 1 Halford St
dropped off or mailed out.
Ph 03 5470 6128
Visit the website for full list of products Expressions of interest,
www.pudforallseasons.com.au
Locals Discount when you mention this
please contact:
advert at our kitchen door. elroos3448@gmail.com