Shedshaker Brewing is launching its dark beers for winter this Sunday June 21 as part of a Solstice celebration at its Taproom.
The celebration of all things dark included the official unveiling the new Whey Stout, brewed in collaboration with neighbours Long Paddock Cheese.
Created for the Obsidian Dark Beer Festival, Shedshaker used 400L of whey to make a luscious, thick and hearty stout.
Milk stouts usually contain lactose to get the renown creamy mouthfeel. Using fresh whey is a more sustainable practice – this whey has done its job for Long Paddock and now gets a second life in this beer.
The result is a full-bodied stout, with a soft, creamy mouthfeel and smooth, roasty finish.
There is a touch of sweetness alongside the hints of chocolate from the malts and just a hint of umami from the whey.
The new Whey Stout joins the Extra Stout, cult favourites Choc Porter and Black Espresso Lager as well as Shedshaker’s OG Celtic Red in this year’s dark beer collection.
Come to the Taproom, 9 Walker St Castlemaine, this Sunday from 4pm to be among the first to try the Whey Stout and sample the whole collection!Music from 5pm is by dark folksters Twa Corbies, to really lean into the shortest day of the year vibes.
Solstice dark beer launch
From niché to national
Fatal crash in Castlemaine
Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal crash which occurred in Castlemaine this morning.
Emergency services were called to Langslow Street about 1.35am after reports a car had left the road and crashed.
The yet to be formally identified male driver and sole occupant of the car died at the scene.
Anyone who witnessed the crash, has footage, or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit an online confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
New association formed to lead recovery
The Harcourt Recovery Thinking Group welcomed community members from Harcourt and surrounds impacted by the January fires to a community meeting at the Harcourt Leisure Centre on June 8 to consider a proposal focused on the next steps to recovery.
Around 100 community members attended the meeting, with another 20 tuning in via the live-stream.
The meeting marked the third gathering of the community focused on recovery since the fires five months ago, and was called to consider the formation of a new independent association to lead recovery and give voice to the community.
The Harcourt Progress Association has carried an extraordinary load since January, but agree with community (as expressed at the community meeting on April 20) that the recovery work should now sit with a new, purpose-built organisation – one that exists solely to do this job for the next three to four years.
The Thinking Group, formed of different sections of the community impacted by the fire, had met seven times in the lead up to the June meeting to develop the proposal for the new entity.
More than 30 organisations and agencies are making decisions about the Harcourt and District on behalf of the community. The Thinking Group were keen to encourage community members impacted to make their voices heard and tell these agencies what the community wants.
Inspired by the Mallacoota and Strathewen fire response, the Thinking Group proposed a new community association – Harcourt & District Community Recovery Association – to lead and drive the community’s own recovery.
Meeting facilitator David Hale welcomed everyone to the meeting and acknowledged all those who had been affected by the fires on the January 9 which was most of the people in the room in one way or another, but in particular those most impacted by those fires.
“As the months go on it gets easier and easier for other people to forget just how much devastation was caused, but I just want to acknowledge that there are still a lot of emotions and a lot that everyone is working through,” he said.
“I also want to acknowledge all the firies, the paramedics, police officers and volunteers which have supported the community. It’s been exhausting. There have been a lot of people who have gone above and beyond and we appreciate all their efforts,” he said.
Harcourt Recovery support person Heidi Michael stepped through a recap of all the work which had been done to get to this point.
She acknowledged the incredible initial response and the relief effort. She also acknowledged the support from council and other agencies but said it was important that the community led the response moving forward.
The crowd then heard from volunteer disaster recovery mentor, Steve Pascoe, whose community and home at Strathewen were devastated by the Black Saturday bushfires in 2009. He was part of a small group that initiated the Strathewen Community Recovery Association.
He has since assisted the Mallacoota community to develop their own community-led recovery approach and is also working with the communities impacted by the Longwood fires.
“We aim to provide our knowledge and advice so you don’t make the mistakes we have,” he said.
“Every community is different, the impacts are different, the way you can respond is different. The skills and resources you have at your disposal and the needs are different. So it has to be community-led,” he said.
“Forming and joining a community-led association means you can all be members and you can all have a say in how community recovery happens,” he said.
“If the association goes ahead and incorporates, it will pave the way to open a bank account, apply for grants and manage donations. It also provides legal protections to members of the association and committee. The concept is strongly supported by council and local government agencies,” he said.
There was a very positive response on the evening and the new Harcourt & District Community Recovery Association was formed.
Around 70 community members signed up on the night. The group will now take steps towards the creation of a formal committee.
A strong membership of this group is key to its success. Everyone impacted is encouraged to fill in the membership form below and have their say in electing the new committee in the coming weeks. The form can be found at https://forms.gle/JsKVeUFiVjbCfSVCA)
CX action returns!
Castlemaine Cycling Club is once again proudly hosting round two of the AusCycling State Cyclo-Cross (CX) Series this Sunday June 21, attracting riders from across Victoria.
For those new to it, Cyclo-Cross (CX) is a fast, muddy, and action-packed style of racing that combines road racing, mountain biking, and obstacle navigation — all on a short, technical course.
The 2025 event marked a new direction for Castlemaine Cycling Club, which has traditionally focused on road and track racing. By embracing CX, the club aimed to bring fresh cycling experiences to the local community and the inaugural event did just that. It was a huge success attracting 110 riders.
The 2026 competition proudly supported by Belle Property Castlemaine will once again take place at Campbells Creek Recreation Reserve with the Campbells Creek Reserve Committee and the Campbells Creek Football Netball Club providing essential support to make the day a success.
Sunday’s event will kick off at 8am with registrations and run through until 4pm.
The round will feature races for all levels, from open-entry events and balance bike races for juniors, right up to the men’s and women’s elite fields.
Inspiring the next generation
New CEO appointed
Mount Alexander Shire Council has appointed Michael Annear as its new Chief Executive Officer.
Mr Annear brings more than 30 years of senior leadership experience across local government, international humanitarian work and community-focused organisations.
He has served as council’s Director Infrastructure and Development since 2021.
During this time, he has strengthened strategic planning and policy, secured increased external funding, and improved organisational performance. He has also led major improvements in capital works delivery, community engagement, and key infrastructure and development projects across the shire.
Mr Annear said he was honoured to take on the role.
“Mount Alexander Shire is a remarkable community, and it is a privilege to serve as its Chief Executive Officer. I am committed to leading an organisation that listens, acts with integrity and delivers services that strengthen wellbeing and resilience.
“I look forward to working closely with councillors, staff, our community and Traditional Owners to advance our shared vision of a healthy, connected and thriving Mount Alexander.”
Before joining council, Mr Annear held senior roles with the Australian Red Cross, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, leading operations across Asia Pacific, Africa and Australia, including disaster response and long-term development programs.
Mr Annear holds qualifications in civil engineering, social science and business administration, along with executive leadership training. He is committed to leading a capable, caring organisation that delivers high-quality services and builds community trust.
Raised in Swan Hill, Mr Annear now lives in Campbells Creek with his family and is actively involved in the local community.
Mayor Toby Heydon welcomes the appointment.
“Michael is an outstanding leader with a deep understanding of our organisation and community. His experience, integrity and commitment to public service make him the right person to lead council into the future.
“He has already made a significant contribution to council and we are confident he will continue to build a strong, community-focused organisation as CEO.”
The appointment follows the announcement that current CEO Darren Fuzzard will conclude his tenure on July 19, 2026, marking 10 years of service to the organisation and community.
Mr Annear thanked Mr Fuzzard for his leadership over the past decade.
“He has made a significant contribution to this organisation and the broader community. I appreciate his dedication and the legacy he leaves, which provides a great platform for the future.”
Mr Annear commences as CEO of Mount Alexander Shire Council on July 20, 2026.
Dry autumn leaves water storages short
Despite 188mm of autumn rainfall, only 143 million litres flowed into the region’s reservoirs, increasing the likelihood of water restrictions next summer unless there is significant rainfall over winter and spring.
Coliban Water General Manager Water Climate Strategy, Adam Crameri, said the past two years had been very dry, resulting in consistently poor inflows and depleted storage levels across the region.
“Over the past two years, we’ve seen very low inflows which are down on the long-term median of 29 billion litres. As a result, our storage levels are still very low,” Mr Crameri said.
“Our combined storage near Kyneton is currently at 53 per cent capacity, and our share of Lake Eppalock is sitting at 29 per cent. While lower storage levels are typical at this time of year following summer demand, the overall position is concerning given the recent run of dry conditions.”
The Bureau of Meteorology is predicting above-average temperatures and below-average rainfall this winter. Coliban Water typically relies on winter and spring rainfall to boost inflows, and what happens over the coming months will be critical in determining water availability for communities next summer.
“With a changing climate, reduced rainfall and increasing demand, water storages are under growing pressure and can no longer be relied on to refill as they have in the past,” Mr Crameri said.
“We know storage levels can shift from healthy to under pressure very quickly, particularly when rainfall is below average and demand is high,” Mr Crameri said.
“We are planning for multiple scenarios. When it comes to water security, we take a conservative approach to manage our water resources while continuing to invest in long-term water security and efficiency projects.”
Coliban Water is continuing to actively manage water across its network while investing in a range of projects and programs to strengthen long-term water security. This includes expanding recycled water use, upgrading key infrastructure, and progressing initiatives such as the Rural Water Efficiency Program to improve system performance and reduce demand on drinking water supplies.
The $160 million program will upgrade critical infrastructure, reduce water losses and build a stronger, more reliable rural water system for the future.
Mr Crameri said rural customers should prepare for reduced water allocations for the upcoming rural season.
“Allocations for the 2026/27 rural season will be announced on July 1, and based on current conditions, they are likely to be very low.
“Using water wisely now can reduce the likelihood of stricter water restrictions in the future, and small actions across the community can make a significant difference,” Mr Crameri said.
“It’s important we all work together to make every drop count during these dry conditions.”
Water restrictions were last in force in the Coliban Water region in 2011.
Serious health concerns for residents
The 2025 Active Living Census results have revealed that over half of Mount Alexander Shire residents engage in risky drinking, and are overweight or obese.
The Healthy Loddon Campaspe initiative helps to understand health and wellbeing across six local government areas – City of Greater Bendigo, Mount Alexander, Campaspe, Central Goldfields, Loddon, and Macedon Ranges shires.
More than 8,000 residents took part in the census between May 26 and July 6, 2025, which collected data on matters such as physical activity, access to nutritious food, public open space use and risky behaviours.
The census found that adults in the Loddon Campaspe region have lower rates of smoking, vaping, gambling and daily sugar-sweetened drink consumption, compared with Victorian and national benchmarks.
In the Mount Alexander Shire, roughly a quarter of the population has fair or poor general health, low to moderate life satisfaction and poor mental wellbeing.
55.5 per cent of residents are overweight or obese, with 88.8 per cent not eating the required amount of vegetables and 43.7 per cent not eating enough fruit.
While screen usage is high (54.2 per cent of residents do not meet screen time recommendations), most residents in the shire do not drink sugary drinks, and very few residents smoke or vape.
The results of the census, conducted by the City of Greater Bendigo, will be used to help guide local planning, health promotion and projects and services that respond to community needs.
The regional findings reports are available at www.healthyloddoncampaspe.au/alc
Art Show winners celebrated
The cream of Mount Alexander’s art community gathered at Castlemaine Town Hall on Thursday afternoon for the Gala Opening of Rotary Castlemaine’s 37th Annual Art Exhibition and Sale.
This year’s King’s Birthday event featured more than 500 works by 166 artists in a wide array of mediums from oils and intricate works on paper to photography and sculpture.
Guest judge and managing curator at La Trobe University Bendigo Visual Arts Centre, Paul Northam was impressed by the calibre of the works and spoke passionately about some of the many standouts and finalists.
“I thank all the artists for their bravery exposing their heart and soul through art,” he said.
Northam awarded the major prize, sponsored by Narelle and Rob Waller of Belle Property in a continuation of their marathon 26-year support of the event, to Norma Bailey-Ramsay’s Karla.
Best 3D Work, also sponsored by Belle Property and presented by representative Blasi Mulholland, went to Jason Johnston’s In Motion with One.
Damian Callahan’s Still Life with Elipse captured the award for Best Oil or Acrylic 2D, sponsored by Pyrenees Quarries.
Best Watercolour, sponsored by Gunangara Property Sales, was awarded to Jason Conn’s Train to Nowhere.
Melissa Scott’s Queen on the Highway was selected as Best Photographic Work, sponsored by the Cumberland Hotel.
Rounding out the awards, Yvonne de Valle’s Uncle Harry took out Best Work on Paper, sponsored by Castlemaine Office Supplies.
Art Show Chair Robert Cordy thanked the sponsors, without whom the show could not continue, and paid tribute to the Rotary volunteers who are the backbone of the show. Special thanks were also made to show curator Catherine Tait and her incredible team of volunteers.
Funds raised by the show are returned to the community via grants to community organisations and community projects. Last year Rotary grants totalled about $80,000.
My Castlemaine with Judith Stutchbree – Part One
Jade Jungwirth
For the past 45 years, Judy Stuchbree has been delivering meals across the shire to those in need. Her love of the job is evident as she talks about her many years working with the council.
Much to her delight, and that of her clients, the CEO of the council, Darren Fuzzard, recently went with her on rounds for the final day of her 45th year.
“He was a passenger for my 45th year and helped me deliver all of the meals and also came with me as the driver on my 40th year,” she said.
Silas and Wilma Ellery were living in Elphinstone when their first child, Judith Christine, was born on Christmas Day, 1949. They moved shortly after her birth, coming back to the region briefly when Judy started primary school.
The eldest of six kids, Judy had a lot of responsibilities at home.
“With my mother being away as much as she was, I did a lot of the cooking, although Dad was a good cook too,” she said.
“Dad was one of these people who could sit in a chair and in five minutes, he’d be asleep sitting up.
“One day, living on the farm when we were kids, Dad went to milk a cow, and he fell asleep. The younger two went down to find out where he was because he seemed to be ages, and there he was sitting on the stool, still asleep. So they took the bucket and took the cow out of the barn. When he woke up, there was no milk nor cow,” Judy said.
“We all thought that was hilarious!”
The family moved to Chewton just as Judy was starting Grade 6. Moving schools often had taken a toll on Judy, and she found attending Castlemaine High School difficult.
By the time she was 14, her father decided to take her out of school.
She secured a job at Sterritts milkbar; (now the computer shop in Barker Street), where she enjoyed working for nine years.
“My workmate, Mrs Fox, was in her late fifties. She was really quite strict, but also motherly,” she said.
“We used to make the lunches for the Foundry, Woolen Mill, and Castlemaine North School.
“When I learned to drive, I’d take the station wagon down with all the food in it to the Mill. Back then, they were shunting trains, so you’d have to be there before 12 or they would shut the gates,” she said.
“There was no public transport then, so I rode my bike from Chewton every day.”
She met her husband, Les, while serving at the counter. He was working night shift at the foundry and became a regular customer.
“When he first asked me, I refused,”Judy said.
“But he kept coming in at 4 o’clock, knowing I’d knock off at five. And eventually we went out.”
She continued working until she had her first child, Lynda, in 1973. Two years later, they had a son, Steven
“We look forward to making 60 years married in 2030, and celebrating other birthdays and anniversaries throughout the same year
“We’re proud grandparents, and thankful for all of them. We have also been lucky to have good health.”
Judy has been an active member of the Chewton and Yapeen tennis clubs for a total of 50 years, 35 as treasurer at Yapeen. She used to play hockey, as the goalie, with the Thompson Foundry for almost 20 years and 18 years as a chairperson for the collection of the Salvation Army Red Shield appeal.
The second instalment of Judy’s two-part interview will be published in the Mail next Friday, June 19.