5 years ago, October 20, 2017: An iconic event was resurrected to the delight of hundreds who flocked to watch the Castlemaine Billy Cart Race on Monument Hill. Organisers estimated that 2000 people turned out on a perfect spring day to witness competitors take on the infamous hill in a variety of homemade carts. Event organisers Camilo ‘Silverado’ Demarco and Jane ‘Fast Lane’ Goodrich were thrilled with the community support of the event. Funds raised were donated to local suicide prevention charity Every Life Matters (ELM).10 years ago, Oct 19, 2012: Castlemaine Railway Station was set to be a hive of activity as the community got set to celebrate 150 years of trains rolling into the gold rush town. The route, which opened in October 1862, nearly did not occur with the track to Castlemaine first proposed as a branch line from Malmsbury. Community and political lobbying saw the line directed through the town – even though it was the more expensive option. The project cost £3 million. In other news the state government announced the 120 bed expansion of Loddon Prison.15 years ago, Oct 12, 2007: The town was preparing to celebrate Ride to Work Day. Local mum of two Lucy Young shared how riding to work was the only way to start the day, the local mum dropping her sons off to childcare and school before making her way to work. Lucy said using the bike was a great form of exercise and great for the environment. In a meeting at Guildford councillors voted to drop the quasi-Cabinet style portfolio system. The system had been introduced after the 2005 elections to give councillor’s specific areas of responsibility but was discontinued following review.20 years ago, October 18, 2002: Hundreds turned out to see the action when the Breakdancing Competitions provided a great spectacle in the historic Castlemaine Market Building forecourt. A temporary stage was set up in front of the market steps to provide an appropriate surface and a large crowd packed the surrounding area to witness the action. Breakdance instructor Dion Brownfield was delighted by the turn out. The event saw dancers from Brownfield’s ‘Switch’ and Sarah Cook’s Movement Zone feature.
