The ‘RACE YA’ Family Fun Day Asthma Australia fundraiser will once again be held this Easter Sunday April 5 at Maldon’s Bill Woodfull Reserve.
The annual event is held in memory of Maldon teen Ned Cameron, 14, who died suddenly of an acute asthma attack in 2016.
Ned’s mum Kristy Lang-O’Connell initiated the event eight years ago to honour his memory, raise funds for Asthma Australia, and increase education about the condition.
An incredible total of more than $118,000 has since been raised in Ned’s memory through donations and RACE YA family fun days and Kristy is hoping to raise more money than ever at this year’s special Maldon Easter Fair event.
However, Kristy said it’s not just about raising money.
“As much as we want to raise money for research, it is also about education, awareness and creating a family fun day that is affordable for families and allows them to spend precious quality time together,” she said.
“In fact, this year in light of the cost of living crisis and petrol prices we have dropped the entry price to $5. Get the kids off their screens and down to the oval and join us for some fun. Life is too short to not enjoy time together,” Kristy said.
There will be heaps to do from running races to tug-a-war, face painting, gumboot toss, nail drive, the egg toss and much more.
There will also be a silent auction, a raffle, a vintage car display, motorbike rides, jumping castle, food and drinks and of course an Easter Egg Hunt!
“The Yabby Races are always a highlight and the lucky door prize will be the champion yabby!” Kristy said.
“While raising money for Asthma Australia we have also been able to give back to the community, implementing education, information and asthma emergency kits into local schools and sporting clubs,” Kristy said.
Support for this year’s event has once again been overwhelming with a number of local businesses generously donating items for the raffle and silent auction.
Be sure to get along and enjoy a good old-fashioned family day out this Easter Sunday at the Bill Woodfull Reserve, Francis Street, Maldon from 11am to 3pm.
Entry is $5. All profits and donations go directly to Asthma Australia. Donations can also be made to the RACE YA account at BSB: 633000 Account: 165 285 826.
“Every bit definitely helps, and we welcome donations big or small,” she said.
Run the Maine held a special event at Boomtown Winery & Bistro on March 24 to launch their 2026 fundraising campaign.
This year Run the Maine will celebrate its 18th edition!
To mark this special milestone the committee held an inaugural launch event to recognise the community that makes this event possible and unveil the committee’s vision for 2026.
On the night sponsors, supporters and guests heard from Race Director Gavin Krasner and the dedicated RTM Committee about why they support the event.
Those in attendance also enjoyed an address by Dhelkaya Health CEO Sue Race who thanked the hardworking committee, dedicated pool of volunteers, and community for the funds raised over the last 17 years.
Ms Race spoke about some of the items and projects which the health organsiation has been able to purchase and complete thanks to RTM’s contribution. These have included a BiPAP machine for patients with respiratory issues; exercise equipment for the Rehabilitation Centre; a SOZO machine for the Lymphoedema Clinic; and in 2025 funds towards the establishment of a Children’s Therapeutic Playground.
The audience also heard from Race Ambassadors about their passion for running and reasons for supporting the community event, and sponsors who are proud to partner with Run the Maine.
Race Director Gavin Krasner said the evening was a great chance to reflect on what they’ve achieved together — and where they’re headed next.
“As we approach our 18th edition, we’re aiming higher than ever — building on the $300,000 raised for our local health service and setting the pace for our biggest year yet,” he said.
Run the Maine 2025 was a record breaking event with almost 1200 participants and a staggering $50,000 raised for Dhelkaya Health.
Let’s help Run the Maine team smash their target in 2026! Super Early Bird registrations open on April 11. Visit runthemaine.org for more details.
With calm autumn conditions across much of the state, communities can expect to see smoke in the air as a mix of planned burns, private burns under CFA’s permit system, and agricultural burns take place over the coming weeks. While current conditions are ideal for burning, weather patterns may cause smoke to linger over parts of the state overnight and through to early morning on some days.
FFMVic Chief Fire Officer Chris Hardman said fire agencies must take advantage of favourable conditions when they present.
“Planned burning on public land is one of the tools FFMVic uses to keep Victoria safer from bushfires,” Mr Hardman said.
“Our climate is changing, and that means finding the right days for safe and effective planned burning is becoming more challenging. Autumn typically provides our crews more opportunities to conduct planned burns, as the weather is more stable, and fire behaviour tends to be manageable and predictable.
“With the current favourable weather and forest conditions, we are delivering as much planned burning as we can,” he said.
“Reducing dry vegetation such as grass, leaves, bark, shrubs and small fallen branches means fires are less intense and slower to spread, making it more likely that firefighters can keep bushfires small and contained before they pose a risk to communities.
“We work closely with CFA, Environment Protection Authority (EPA) and Bureau of Meteorology to keep the smoke impact from planned burns as low as possible. We make every effort to make sure favourable weather conditions reduce smoke drift into communities.
“Victorians can register to receive notifications of upcoming planned burns at the Planned Burns Victoria website.”
CFA Acting Chief Officer Alen Slijepcevic said while fire restrictions are beginning to lift in some areas and landholders are starting to burn off on their properties, Victorians should remain vigilant before igniting their burn and ensure conditions are safe to do so.
“We are now seeing Fire Danger Periods end in some parts of the state, and we have been issuing a small number of agricultural permits for some farmers where restrictions still remain,” Mr Slijepcevic said.
“You may see a large amount of smoke in areas where these activities take place, so we ask farmers to let their neighbours know who may be sensitive to smoke so they can take necessary precautions.
“Any burning activity must always have someone in attendance, with enough water resources to monitor, contain and extinguish the burn safely and effectively,” he said.
For greater awareness for emergency services and community members, burn-offs should be registered on the fire permits website or if you wish to start your burn-off immediately, register your burn-off by calling 1800 668 511.
The Planned Burns Victoria website has details of all planned burns currently on the three-year Joint Fuel Management Program, visit plannedburns.ffm.vic.gov.au/.
To find out what can and can’t be done during the fire danger period, visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings-restrictions/fire-bans-ratings-and-restrictions/can-i-or-cant-iCheck fire restrictions and register private burns at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au or call 1800 668 511.
Detailed information about current air quality throughout Victoria can be found on the EPA’s website at www.epa.vic.gov.au
The music of Santana and The Doobie Brothers will come alive in Bendigo as this high-energy tribute show takes to the stage at The Capital Theatre on Saturday April 11.
Featuring a full live band of seasoned musicians, the show celebrates the iconic sound of two of the most influential acts in classic rock history — from Santana’s signature guitar-driven Latin grooves to The Doobie Brothers’ unmistakable harmonies and feel-good hits.Audiences can expect a dynamic live experience packed with timeless favourites including Black Magic Woman, Smooth, Long Train Runnin’, Listen To The Music and more.
With authentic musicianship, infectious energy and a setlist of foot-stomping, sing-along anthems spanning generations, this show promises a night of unforgettable live music. Don’t miss your chance to experience these legendary sounds live at The Capital. For tickets visit www.bendigoregion.com.au/arts-culture-theatres/event/Listen-To-The-Music
Maldon Easter Fair kicks off tomorrow evening, April 2, and is celebrating 149 years in 2026.
All the fun of the five day festival begins Thursday, with the symbolic lighting of of the tower lights on Mount Tarrengower and The Great Aussie Scone Bake competition.
On Good Friday the Combined Open Air Church Service takes place at the Beehive Chimney from 10.30am. Maldon Football Netball Club will also host the Maryborough Castlemaine Football Netball Club season opener against Dunolly with plenty of Easter-themed activities for the kids, and the Maldon Vintage Machinery Museum’s annual three day Vintage Engine Rally kicks off.
Easter Saturday wander the sprawling Easter Market, try your luck at the Maldon Golf Club’s popular ‘Hole-in-Hole’ competition, take in the torchlight procession, and wind up the day ‘Dancing in the Street’ with beloved host David Skinner.
Easter Sunday the RACE YA Family Fun Day will be held at the Bill Woodfull Reserve from 11am to 3pm raising funds for Asthma Australia in honour of late Maldon teen Ned Cameron, and the Maldon Brass Band Concert will take place at Maldon Hotel at 3pm.
Easter Monday the fair will be capped off with the massive gala street parade from 10.30am and traditional street games including The Great Aussie Egg Toss.
Check out the Maldon Easter Fair socials to catch the full program for 2026.
Victorian Goldfields Railway will kick off its Easter festivities with a Good Friday evening, Wine and Cheese Soiree Train which will depart Castlemaine Station at 5pm, as the heritage train meanders along the tracks, you’ll be transported into a world of decadence.
Savour a delightful selection of wines carefully curated for your palate. Tasting notes will guide you through the nuances of each wine as the VGR stewards serve a lavish cheese platter during the journey.
Dinner will be held at the Porcupine Village’s Golden Nugget Restaurant upon arrival at Maldon. The return journey wouldn’t be complete without a dessert wine to accompany a delectable dessert! Grab your ticket before they sell out!
The regular Goldfields Explorer trains will operate on Good Friday, Easter Saturday and Sunday.
Two special trains will also operate over the Easter Weekend, offering something a bit different and are a great way to get from Castlemaine to Maldon for the 149th Easter Fair!
Easter Monday the fair finale, the Maldon Fair Easter Procession will take place. This year, VGR have a steam train departing Castlemaine Station at 9.15am, to get you out to Maldon early enough to watch the procession and then partake in the Easter festivities departing Maldon at 2.45pm.
For those who haven’t got time for a full day on the train, Easter Monday will also see a short one hour travel option starting at Maldon at 12.45pm – for a quick trip out to Muckleford and back.
It’ll be a busy year again for the team at the VGR, with the return of Steam Locomotive K160, following a 12 year overhaul at Newport Workshops.
It also marks 40 years since heritage trains starting operating out of Maldon station back in 1986, festivities to celebrate the two big achievements are in the planning phase for August.
2026 also marks Maldon’s 60th anniversary of being declared ‘Australia’s First Notable Town’ and the VGR is looking forward to helping the town celebrate this milestone on May 10.
The VGR continues to be a volunteer run and maintained non-for-profit organisation, helping to preserve and maintain a slice of our local history.
Please head to their website: www.vgr.com.au for more details and to get involved – they’ve got a job to suit just about everyone and there is always plenty to do!
All VGR trains can be booked via the website or contact the VGR office on (03) 5470 6658 or via email at info@vgr.com.au
The Campbells Creek Football Netball Club has a new committee at the helm and has been working hard behind the scenes to prepare for the 2026 Maryborough Castlemaine District Football Netball Club season.
The Mail caught up for a chat with new president Peter Manning earlier last week about the latest news at the Creek.
Peter comes to the Magpies with decades of experience on football club committees in Melbourne and is delighted to be able to throw his support behind the grassroots country club.
Peter credited outgoing president Renee Taylor and the committee with doing a power of work to get the club on track.
“I’m thrilled to have the support of secretary Maddy Dzioba and treasurer Marg Stevens behind me. They have once again been working tirelessly to get our teams on the ground and court.
“The club is in a strong financial position and we continue to work hard to build our playing group and I am sure we will see some positive results on the field in the not too distant future,” he said.
Peter’s son Matt Manning returns as Senior Football Coach, alongside Assistant Coach Luke Dzioba.
Peter said the club has been able to retain their core playing group and bring in some fresh new talent from Melbourne.
“We have secured five experienced players from the city who have provided a real positive injection into the side and will really lift us to a new level.
“We are also thrilled to welcome back a few former players to bolster our local talent and we are excited for 2026.”
In the Reserves, coaches Ben Tombs and Jordan Picken have also returned and are looking forward to the challenge of the new season as they continue developing the club’s emerging talent.
On the netball court, the club is pleased to welcome new A Grade coach Tyler Fratantaro.
Fratantaro, along with B Grade coaches Lisa Clark and Sheryl Rose, and C Grade coaches Molly Kennedy and Tarni Williams, were impressed by the effort and enthusiasm shown by players during last Thursday night’s practice match against Castlemaine.
Peter said for the new committee there is a strong focus on the future and forward planning.
“We realise that nurturing the junior side of our club is essential to a bright future. Therefore we are making all junior registrations across our football and netball sides free.
“We could use another five or six Under 15 footballers and a few more Under 12s and welcome new faces,” he said.
“Our Auskick program will also be free to encourage little ones to try their hand at Aussie Rules. We are currently on the hunt for a coordinator for this program and would love to hear from anyone who would be keen to lead this important program,” he said.
The Campbells Creek club is also placing a strong focus on community connection and wellbeing.
“We have formed a partnership with Castlemaine Community House and will be encouraging members to donate non-perishable items to support their Food Pantry for those doing it tough,” he said.
“We are also keen to support the valuable work of Castlemaine Safe Space. We are holding a special Sponsors and Volunteers Lunch on June 27 which will feature special guest and ex-AFL great, Australian media personality, and sports commentator Sam Kekovich.
“Many will remember Sam the ambassador for the We Love Our Lamb campaign. He has had an incredible career both on and off the field,” Peter said.
The club held their season launch and jumper presentation at the Five Flags Hotel last Saturday night March 28.
To learn more about playing football or netball at Campbells Creek in 2026 check out the club’s Facebook page or call Marg 0412 807 971 or Maddy 0407 050 838.
