News from around the region that’s brief, but no less important
Lancefield-Cobaw fire findings
Findings of the independent investigation into October’s Lancefield-Cobaw fire will be presented at a community meeting at the Lancefield Mechanics Institute from 9.30am this Thursday (November 19). Environment Minister Lisa Neville and lead investigator Murray Carter will discuss the report and the government response to the planned burn, which twice jumped containment lines before destroying four houses, 25 sheds, vehicles, machinery and thousands of kilometres of fencing.
Cold Chisel rocks the Rock
Businesses and accommodation providers are preparing for an influx of trade ahead of Saturday’s Hanging Rock concert. Legendary Australian rock outfit Cold Chisel will be supported by The Living End, Mark Seymour and The Undertow and Macedon Ranges’ own Stonefield. Road closures will be in place in the area.
Land lots may shrink
Minimum lot sizes could be reduced for land in rural living zones around Gisborne, Gisborne South, Riddells Creek and a small area in Romsey, north of Ochiltrees Road, under a planning amendment proposed by Macedon Ranges council. Submissions to amendment C110 close on December 23. Drop-in sessions will be held in Romsey on November 26 and Kyneton on November 30. Details: goo.gl/bDZevO
Police seek help on servo theft
Detectives investigating the theft of cigarettes, phone chargers and other items from a service station in Gap Road, Sunbury, are seeking help from the public. Police have released images of a woman they want to speak to in relation to the incident, which took place about 10pm on October 22. They said the woman drove to the service station in a four-door sedan, possibly a Toyota Corolla, and gained entry to the store. She’s described as Caucasian, aged about 25 to 30, of solid build with blonde hair. Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000
Good life for all ages
Macedon Ranges has been admitted to the World Health Organisation’s global network of age-friendly cities and communities. Cr John Connor said network entry would strengthen the council’s positive ageing efforts. ‘‘By creating an age-friendly community, we can plan and implement strategies that will support our community as it grows older,’’ he said.
Safeguarding the Ranges
Planning Minister Richard Wynne will join Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas at a public forum from 6pm this Wednesday at Gisborne Golf Club. People will have the chance to discuss the region and how its natural beauty can be preserved. Details: 136 186, email planning.implementation@delwp.vic.gov.au
Remembrance Day tributes
Dozens of people, including many students, gathered at Gisborne’s war memorial to mark Remembrance Day last Wednesday. Services were also held at Sunbury, Kyneton, Romsey and Lancefield. Diggers Rest marked the day with the first service at its new cenotaph.