Jirrahlinga Dingo Conservation and Wildlife Education Centre is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
One highlight of this achievement will be its generous support for Castlemaine’s Rural Australians for Refugees (RAR) fund raising efforts with special discounts for visitors to the Chewton based centre this Sunday, November 9, from 10 to 4.
On that day there will be substantial savings on entry fees for adults ($30 instead of $35) and families ($90 instead of $106).
The money raised will be used to help refugees and people seeking asylum who have fled persecution in their countries of origin to seek a safer life in Australia.
Money raised will go to organisations that provide practical, medical and legal support to people without income or work rights.
By visiting Jirrahlinga on November 9, people will get to experience a close encounter with koalas, dingoes, kangaroos, wallabies, reptiles, snakes, wombats, emus, and
many more species – for a special reduced admission price.
And all of the proceeds for the day will go towards the good cause of helping people who are less fortunate than ourselves. Come along for a great day out and view the important work taking place at the local centre.
To get to Jirrahlinga, follow the paw prints on Eureka Street, Chewton
For more information about Jirrahlinga visit www.jirrahlinga.com.au
Mount Alexander Shire Council is proud to announce the finalists for the 2025 Mount Alexander Business Awards.
This year’s awards received more than 120 nominations across seven categories.
Each category highlights the people and enterprises that help build a thriving local economy – one that values innovation, care for people and place, environmental sustainability, and strong community connections.
The winners will be announced at the Business Awards Presentation Evening on Wednesday November 19 at Boomtown Winery & Bistro at The Mill Castlemaine.
Finalists have now been selected across the following categories:
Community Impact
Rhythm First Aid
Tarrangower Times
The Castlemaine Community Investment Co-operative
Local Food Excellence
Golden Nugget Restaurant
Long Paddock Cheese & The Cheese School
Superhero Bánh Mì
Innovation and Technology
EnviroShop Newstead
Like Butter
Warral Maldon
Accessibility Champion
Big4 Castlemaine Gardens Holiday Park
Maldon Bakery
Theatre Royal Castlemaine
Outstanding Workplace
Big4 Castlemaine Gardens Holiday Park
Golden Nugget Restaurant
PJ’s Discount Tyre Service
NextGen Champion
Castlemaine Circus
Castlemaine Mowers & Ag
Shedshaker Brewing
People’s Choice
The Castlemaine Community Investment Co–operative
Shedshaker Brewing
Theatre Royal Castlemaine
Council’s Manager Economy and Culture Merryn Tinkler said we are lucky to have such exceptional businesses here in Mount Alexander Shire.
“They’re not just creating jobs, they’re helping build a thriving economy that looks after local people, our towns and landscapes, and the future of our region.
“The stories we’ve heard this year have been truly inspiring, and the judges had an incredibly tough job choosing finalists.
“Congratulations to our finalists as well as everyone who contributes to our thriving local business community.”
The Business Awards Presentation Evening is a chance to recognise and celebrate the remarkable contributions of our local businesses – from creating supportive workplaces and accessible spaces, to championing local food, sustainability and new ideas.
Tickets are now on sale and expected to sell quickly.
To book, visit www.mountalexander.vic.gov.au/Business-Awards
For further information, contact Economic Development Coordinator Daniel Bone on 5471 1700 or email d.bone@mountalexander.vic.gov.au
