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Articles by Dudley McArdle
The Wombat Post Weekly Update
Reader-funded local news Keep local news in local hands The Wombat Post is written and run by volunteers from the Daylesford and Hepburn community. Since 2019 we've reported on local news, events and council decisions that no one else covers. Volunteers give their time, but hosting, insurance and equipment still cost money. If you value what we do, please become a member. The Wombat Post is run by local volunteers. Since 2019 we've covered the news and council decisions no one else does.
Notes from Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre
A Berry Big Opportunity for Daylesford’s Paddock Project Local gardeners can pick up a berry bush or grapevine and help Daylesford’s Paddock Project grow. Gareth Devenish of Farm Tree Nursery has teamed up with Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre for A Berry Big Sale, generously offering to contribute 30 per cent of all sales from the fundraiser to the project. The sale features established berry bushes and grapevines in 150–200 mm pots for $15 each or three for $35.
Remembrance Day – Daylesford 2026
Once again, Remembrance Day was celebrated in Daylesford at the 11th hour, on the 11th day of the 11th month of 2026 at our memorial at the north end of Vincent Street. This was the 108th time Remembrance Day has been celebrated. Over time, rituals and practices have been added and removed from our commemorations. This was the case in this week’s event. The haunting notes of The Last Post rang out. One minute’s silence was held, followed by Reveille. Flags were raised and lowered.
Generous Donation for Daylesford Museum
Last weekend, 40 of the Daylesford Museum volunteers gathered for a very special afternoon tea. They came together to learn and celebrate a special gift donation. Local residents Keith and Ros Pyers have donated $150,000 to the Daylesford and District Historical Society. Their lives have been geared towards supporting their community – Keith from his time as a ‘nasho’ serviceman in the 1950s and also having served as a Local Councillor and High School Principal for many years.
Emergency Expo a spectacular success
More than 1,000 people attended Hepburn Shire’s Emergency Services Expo, with families, emergency services personnel and community organisations coming together for a day of demonstrations, activities and practical emergency preparedness advice.
Remembrance Day Daylesford
At a time when global events feel polarising, the traditional 11:00 am minute of silence which will be observed on Remembrance Day in Daylesford next Tuesday will act as a rare equaliser. It will invite our community of diverse multicultural backgrounds, generations, and beliefs to pause simultaneously. This collective pause will transform Vincent Street into a unified environment, reinforcing a shared local commitment to peace, social stability, and looking out for one another.
The History Files: The Allies Final Triumph
In these days of instant communication, across the world, we forget how slow news was in filtering down to our region – even for such outstanding events as the end of World War One.
The History files- Disparaging Remarks
It would seem that the local Council have always been beset by weighty matters.
The History files: Daylesford Entertainment in the early 20th Century
In 1917 there was plenty of entertainment for Daylesford residents, from dancing, card tournaments, picture shows, socials and musical excursions to special train trips. From The Daylesford Advocate 5 January 1917: QUEEN OF AGRICULTURE SOCIAL – On Thursday night, the 28th ult, a dance and euchre party was held on behalf of Miss Bolton, the Queen of Agriculture, in the Alpha Hall, when there was a splendid attendance. Miss Corrigan supplied excellent pianoforte music for the dancers and Mr E.
Notes from Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre: Profile of a Volunteer
Diana’s Story The first time I left Mexico to live abroad, I was 24 years old and working as a Junior Editor at a Mexican Television Broadcasting company. Little did I know that travelling would not just teach me about responsibility; my adventure would guide me to the fascinating world of growing food and the value of community, the two reasons that keep me motivated despite being far from my closest family and the place I was familiar with.
The history files – Precursor to Social Media?
Much has been written these days about the use/abuse of social media and the propensity for some to use it to air complaints, grievances, moans and whinges. But even in the early 20th Century, people still vented their displeasure through the available media. Daylesford Advocate Tuesday 9 January 1917: NEW YEAR’S EVE IN DAYLESFORD. To the Editor of the Advocate, Sir, The proceedings which took place in the main street of Daylesford on New Year’s Eve were certainly not a credit to any community.
Work experience report – Notes from DNC
Bea undertook work experience with us last week, and has written this recount for the Wombat Post. She is a student at Daylesford Secondary College. Bea declined a photo to accompany the article so we have attached one of the posters she created in Canva to promote an upcoming event in The Paddock.
The History Files: Dreadful Accidents
It seems that every day we hear about people suffering dreadful accidents. Accidents were all too frequent in our early history, too. The following stories were reported in The Daylesford Mercury and Express issue of 24 August 1869: SEVERE ACCIDENT. – A miner named Owen Jones met with a serious accident at Moonambel on Saturday night. Returning home, and being fatigued, he laid down near a burning tree which had been felled, and the end of which was resting on the stump.
Community Comes Together to Distribute Generous Donation from Chemist Warehouse
The Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre (DNC) was a hive of activity this week following the arrival of a generous donation from Chemist Warehouse, delivered via The Block. The sizeable shipment of health and hygiene products was received with open arms and distributed quickly to individuals, families and organisations across the region. Thanks to the hard work of staff, volunteers and community members, most of the goods were sorted and delivered on the same day.
New Training Opportunity for Aspiring Community Workers – Notes From the DNC - The Wombat Post
The Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre has joined forces with GenU Training to offer a nationally recognised course for locals looking to begin a career in the health and community services sector. The CHCSSOOO88 Induction Skill Set is designed as an entry-level pathway for individuals who are interested in supporting others and working in roles that make a meaningful difference in the community.
A Community Coop (And Roots & Branches) – Notes from the DNC - The Wombat Post
The Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre is calling on the community to help bring a new feathered feature to life – a community chook run! Set to be a welcoming home for some much-loved hens, the project aims to create a sustainable and interactive space that fosters learning, connection and (with a bit of luck) a regular supply of fresh, affordable eggs for the local community.
The History Files: Before The Block - The Wombat Post
Les Pitt Many people are not aware that the block of land now being developed for The Block TV was once the property of W. E. Stanbridge, a wealthy local squatter and philanthropist who contributed greatly to the early development of Dyalesford. William Stanbridge bought the land that became Wombat Park in the 1850s and at that time he called it Wombat. The gold diggings in the area became the Wombat goldfield, later Spring Creek goldfield then Jim Crow, and later again Hepburn goldfields.
Something Special – Notes From the DNC - The Wombat Post
At the Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre, community is at the heart of everything we do. And we’d love for you to be part of it. Whether you’re a familiar face or someone we’re yet to meet, we warmly invite you to become a member. It’s a simple, meaningful way to show your support for the values we share: inclusion, connection and opportunities for everyone. By becoming a member, you’re helping to create a place where everyone feels welcome and heard.
Anzac Day 2025: The Stories Behind the Names on our Cenotaph
Over the past 109 years, Australians have become accustomed to seeing long lists of names on the ubiquitous war memorials in every city and town in Australia. Sadly, we rarely take the time these days to become aware of the stories behind those names – names of those thousands of Australians who never returned from wars in far-flung countries.
The History Files: Troubles on the Roads - The Wombat Post
Readers will be familiar with troublesome potholes on many of the roads around Daylesford. But perhaps our current difficulties are not as great as troubles suffered by some travellers in1864. 26 June 1864 “On Thursday evening an accident happened to Cobb’s coach from Malmsbury that was attended by very curious results to the passengers. When nearing Kangaroo Hill about three miles on the Malmsbury side of the Loddon, the axle, through no fault of the driver, broke.
Volleyball at the ARC - Notes From the DNC
Recently, three Daylesford College volleyball teams based at The Daylesford Arts & Recreation Centre (The ARC) travelled to Horsham to play in the Greater Western Volleyball Championships. We’re so proud because the boys’ team won and both girls’ teams finished runners-up! What a great result! The boys will be off to the Victorian State School Championships on 14th May in Dandenong. This means they are in the top 8 Intermediate School Volleyball teams in Victoria.
The History Files: “Mad” Ted Wardle
Readers will recall our History Files story Daylesford Digger Died Destitute. This is a continuation of the Tom Connell story and introduces some other characters who lived in Connells Gully. The first is Ted Wardle, water entrepreneur. Ted ran a small store and grog shop in Connells Gully but he had grander plans than being a shopkeeper. He wanted to bring water to Daylesford, not for the common good, but to make money selling it.
CFA Recruitment Campaign
The Daylesford Fire Brigade has launched a recruitment campaign to attract new members. The brigade is calling on locals from Daylesford and surrounding towns to turn their spare time into something extraordinary by becoming volunteer firefighters. Volunteering with the Brigade offers flexibility while making a significant impact on the lives of others.
We Are So Proud of Our Lynda – Notes From the DNC - The Wombat Post
The Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre (DNC) Committee of Management, staff, and volunteers are immensely proud of Lynda (Daisy) Poke, who was recently inducted into the Heather Mutimer Roll of Honour. In investing Lynda, Cr Lesley Hewitt praised her exceptional advocacy for gender equity and access to essential services. Lynda has contributed her extensive expertise in finance, governance, and strategic planning to numerous community organisations, including the DNC and the Dharma School Daylesford.
The Victorian Goldfields World Heritage Bid Comes To Daylesford
A community information session about the Victorian Goldfields World Heritage Bid will be held at the Daylesford Museum on Tuesday April 15 from 5.00pm till 7.00pm. The aim of the World Heritage bid is to share the extraordinary story of the Victorian Goldfields with people from across the globe and create social, cultural and economic opportunities for every community across the region.
The History Files: Daylesford Digger Died Destitute
Most locations in Daylesford are named after successful businessmen – Howe Street, Stanbridge Street, Jamison Street and the misspelled Bleakley Street among them. (Henry Bleackley ran the hotel on the site where The Rex is currently located.) One exception is Connells Gully Road, named after Tom Connell, a man whose life was far from conventional. Though his career was less than distinguished, he was admired by friends and associates and left a lasting mark on Daylesford’s history.
Something for Everyone – Notes From the DNC - The Wombat Post
Whether you’re looking to advance in your career, explore a new hobby, or simply enjoy the process of learning, we have something for everyone. More information can be found on our Website https://www.dncentre.org.au/courses . Tai Chi Expressions of interest are currently being taken for a Term 2 Tai Chi class. If you would like to take part in Tai Chi, please call Gudrun on 0490 053 521.
Plumber Wanted! Notes From the DNC
Late last week, DNC had some lovely seedlings donated to us. With a bit of lateral thinking (and because we had nowhere for them), we put a call-out for some raised garden bed-frames. Wishful thinking, right? Within 10minutes of the call-out, Kristy Smith had responded and offered to deliver them to us the very next day.
Did You Know? - Notes From the DNC
Aside from our courses and workshops that we offer each term, DNC also offers the following services to our community: Meeting rooms, venue hire and co-working spaces Video Conferencing facilities Adult Community and Further Education (ACFE) courses Events, classes, activities Volleyball and Basketball court hire School holiday activities Photocopying, Scanning, Printing, Laminating services Public Hub with free internet and computer access Confidential document shredding service Job agency...
The Arts and Recreation Centre – Notes from the DNC - The Wombat Post
The ARC is the premium indoor recreation facility in the Hepburn Shire that offers a range of sporting, health, wellness, cultural and arts programs to the community and hosts a variety of community events. It is a joint-use facility developed by the Daylesford Community with the support of Daylesford Secondary College (DSC) and Hepburn Shire Council (HSC). The ARC has been operating since 2007 and has been managed by Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre since 2013. The facility.
New Course and More - Notes From the Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre (DNC)
Are you someone who learnt French years ago and would like to refresh your skills? Or perhaps you’d simply like to refine your understanding of the French language?
What is a Neighbourhood Centre? Notes From the DNC
Neighbourhood Centres are the heart of our communities. They bring people together to connect, learn and contribute to their local community through social, educational, recreational and support activities.
Venue Hire for Meetings and Sport - Notes from the DNC
Did you know we have several rooms, large and small, available for hire? Areas include a co-working space, function spaces, kitchen facilities and class rooms.All rooms can be hired on a casual or permanent basis.
A Busy Term Four ahead at the Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre
As Term 3 draws to an end, we are now looking ahead to Term 4 and are happy to announce we have several new offerings commencing in October. Coming up in Term 4 we will have a new Men’s Group fortnightly session, a new French class on Monday afternoons and our much-loved Honeytones Choir will be stepping back in to their regular Monday night timeslot. We welcome Catherine LeRoux, our new French tutor on board, and welcome back Greg Govinda, the Men’s Group facilitator.
Congratulations, and a L-o-n-g Joke – Notes From the DNC - The Wombat Post
DNC wholeheartedly congratulates the six members of the Daylesford community (Ms Krystyna Szokolai, Ms Gina Butera, Mr Mark Dickenson, Ms Jennifer Bray, Ms Irene Holub and Ms Lynda Poke) who led the application for the internal review of the Victorian Liquor Commission’s decision to grant a licence for a Dan Murphy’s outlet on the corner of Bridport St and Central Springs Road in Daylesford.
Warm Coats For Winter – Notes From the DNC - The Wombat Post
In last week’s Wombat Post, we announced our new initiative of providing warm coats for those in need. The recent cold weather has obviously triggered a significant need! Our coat rack in the porch outside the Court House has seen a huge traffic in coats – in and out! We are very grateful to those generous people who have donated their surplus coats (and beanies and scarves) by the dozen. They come in all sizes, shapes, colours and textures as you can see by our photo.
Staff Changes and An Exciting New Project – Notes From the DNC - The Wombat Post
Last week DNC saw the departure of long-time Manager, Danny Liversidge, with staff member Linda Carroll now stepping in temporarily to fill the vacancy. Linda was DNC’s Community Engagement/Events Coordinator/Digital Marketing person and is now adding the title Interim Coordinator to her list! Linda has been with DNC for almost 6 years so has a strong understanding of all things DNC.
An Ode to Danny – Notes from the DNC - The Wombat Post
Our long-time Manager, Danny Liversidge, left us for greener pastures this week. The Committee of Management, staff and volunteers took him to lunch to see him off in grand style. To mark the occasion, our Chair, Gina Lyons, wrote and recited: An Ode to Danny We gather here to bid adieu, to Danny, who is leaving too. From car sales to the DNC, oh, what a path for us to see! He sold cars, suits, and even dreams, Senior Analyst with corporate schemes.
A Sad Farewell and Some Free Courses – Notes from the DNC - The Wombat Post
After six years at the Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre (DNC), our Manager Danny Liversidge is leaving. He has decided to launch himself into the big wide world and is stepping aside from the Manager’s role to pursue all the things he’s wanted to do, but never had the time! The Committee of Management, staff, volunteers and everyone who utilises the centre wish Danny all the very best for the next chapter of his life and thank him for his contributions over the last six years.
You Can Be a Tutor! Notes from the DNC
Are you brimming with knowledge and eager to share it?  Do you thrive on guiding others to success?  Look no further!  The Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre (DNC) is on the hunt for enthusiastic session tutors ready to inspire in a vibrant and supportive setting. No formal training?  No problem! Whether youâre a subject matter expert, a retired educator, or someone with rich industry experience, we welcome your expertise.
Sports at the ARC – Notes from the DNC - The Wombat Post
Volleyball is played on Monday nights at the ARC and is suitable for beginners and people of all ages. Did you know…. Four teams have reached Victorian State Schools Championship which made each team in the top 8 school teams in Victoria. Seven teams have made it to the state championships in the last 2 years. Most play in the junior competition on Monday nights from 6pm-7pm. Our social adult competition runs from 7pm-8pm straight after the juniors.
Discover Your Ideal Workspace – Notes from the DNC - The Wombat Post
Are you tired of the same old home office routine? Ready for a change of scenery? Look no further! Our co-working spaces offer the perfect blend of comfort, productivity and community. Here’s why you’ll love working with us: High-Speed NBN Internet: Say goodbye to buffering and lag. Our lightning-fast internet keeps you connected without missing a beat. Video Conferencing Facilities with 65” Smart TV: Available free of charge with your room booking.
Healthy Ageing – Notes from the Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre (DNC) - The Wombat Post
As part of their Living and Ageing Well in Hepburn project Central Highlands Rural Health (CHRH) recently launched a series of community information events across the Hepburn shire – with many events happening in Daylesford. DNC is delighted to host Healthy Conversations, monthly events that will be held at DNC and will feature speakers from CHRH covering a range of health-related topics. They will also include guest speakers from various government and local organisations.
Indoor Sports Activities at Hepburn Shire ARC – Notes from the DNC - The Wombat Post
Hepburn Shire Arts, Recreation and Cultural Centre (ARC) is thrilled to announce a line-up of exhilarating indoor sports activities that will get your heart racing and your spirits soaring! Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a beginner looking to have a blast, we’ve got something for everyone. Volleyball Extravaganza – Mondays at 6 PM 🏐 Bump, set, spike! Dive into the thrilling world of Volleyball every Monday at 6 PM.
Neighbourhood House Week – Notes from the DNC - The Wombat Post
We are a volunteer, community-run news service for Hepburn Springs and Daylesford. Last year we published more than 500 local stories, maintained a local events calendar and a local business and services directory. We depend on local support to meet our costs. We have a group of loyal members that support as as well and you could always join them, if you haven’t already. Next week – 13-19 May – DNC is celebrating Neighbourhood House Week.
Indigenous Plant Demonstration Garden – Notes from the DNC - The Wombat Post
Did you know that in the surrounds of DNC we have a beautiful Indigenous Plant Demonstration Garden? It has been laid out by an enthusiastic, expert group of volunteers and emphasises the three bioregions within Hepburn Shire. Bioregions are the broad-scale classification of distinct landscapes based on climate, topography, geology, soils and vegetation. Twenty-eight bioregions are recognised within Victoria, three occurring in Hepburn Shire: The Goldfields.
Free Community Afternoon Tea – Notes from the Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre (DNC) - The Wombat Post
Tuesday 21 May is International Afternoon Tea Day. So we say, “Why not celebrate by having a community afternoon tea at DNC?” See below for details of our upcoming community afternoon tea on May 21 from 2:00pm to 3:30pm. This is a free event being held at DNC in the Paddock Room. If you would like to attend, please call the office on 5348 3569 and let us know. And mark your calendars today! We hope you can make it along.
New Workshops - Notes from the Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre (DNC)
Two new workshops are coming up at DNC soon! Foot Workshop. This is a Practical workshop examining alternative methods for alleviating foot disfunctions including flat arches, plantar fasciitis and bunions. Using the Alexander technique and yoga, participants will learn how to adjust the whole-body balance and coordination to walk easily and to heal their feet. Date: Sunday 14 April Time: 10.00am to 1.00pm. Cost: $80.00 or $140.00 for both workshops.
DNC Annual General Meeting - Notes from the DNC
The Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre (DNC) Committee of Management invites you to our Annual General Meeting to be held on: Date: Monday 29th April 2024 Time: 6pm Venue: DNC Paddock Room, 13 Camp St. Daylesford (as well as via Zoom*) *pls rsvp with your email address for a Zoom invitation The business of the Annual General Meeting will be to: Confirm the minutes of the previous AGM Consider and accept the Annual Reports for 2022 Elect members to the Committee of Management New members are...
Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre Wins NHVic Award - Notes from the DNC
We are excited to announce that at this week’s Neighbourhood Houses Victoria (NHVic) awards night, Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre won the ‘Reducing Inequalities’ award for our Community Hygiene Station project. It was one of only four awards presented. We are very proud of this project for our leadership in this space and of the number of Neighbourhood Centres that have called since its opening to advise us that they are now implementing similar programs at their Centres.
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