All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueFirefighters from the CFA responded to a grass and scrub fire at around 12:26pm on Sunday
May 4 on Taylor Street in the city's south
Crews arrived on scene to find a grass and scrub fire spreading through fairly inaccessible terrain
the CFA had ten vehicles on scene working to bring the blaze under control alongside Victoria Police
A warning has been issued for the Golden Square fire
Picture from VicEmergencyThe incident was declared under control at 1:15pm
Following the fire an advice message has been issued for residents in the affected area telling them to monitor conditions
While there is no threat to lives or properties there is still smoke in the area
Elwood Street and Wilmont Street roads were closed while emergency crews worked in the area
Crews remained on scene afterwards to black out the hot spots of the fire
WA boy in Bendigo, happy to be in Central Victoria.
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ROUND five in the Champions IGA-backed CVFL senior women’s football competition on Sunday features a showdown between Sandhurst and Bendigo Thunder at Queen Elizabeth Oval.
The Dragons and Thunder will strive to claim the premiership points from 3.30pm.
After being scoreless in the Anzac Day match played at Golden Square’s Wade Street ground, Sandhurst will be fired up for this contest.
Key players in a Sandhurst team coached by Andrew Saladino and Liam Ireland include Lara Bish, Ruby Campbell, Arkie Donnelly, Chloe Naughton, Chelsea Reeves and Charlotte Scanlon.
It’s been a tough run for the Mick McInnes-coached Thunder which has a lot of new players.
Best in Thunder’s latest hit-out against the formidable Castlemaine team were Stacey Barbagallo, Katherine Christie, Amity Bradford and Kate Wright.
Crucial roles will be played by Thunder captains Katherine Christie and Estella Murphy as rover and full-back, vice-captain Alannah Leach as ruck-rover, and Awhina Poki in the centre.
Refreshed by the bye, Marong and Eaglehawk will clash in the Hawks’ nest at Canterbury Park from 1pm.
The Jimmy Evenden and Daniel Bourke-coached Marong past the century mark against Thunder in round two and have had consecutive byes.
Players to watch for the Panthers include Dani Jeffery, Kayla Grant, Lauren Knight and Jaime Sawers.
A two-one record has earnt the Molly Metcalf-coached Eaglehawk third place in the premiership race.
Best in Eaglehawk’s win against North Bendigo on Good Friday were Lexie Moss, Samantha Johnston, Emily Field and Molly Metcalf.
The Winslow Constructors White Hills Demons face a huge challenge against Golden Square in Sunday’s match at Scott Street in White Hills from 1pm.
The Phil Murley-coached Demons are on the rebound from a 16-point loss to North Bendigo.
Best for White Hills on North Bendigo’s turf at Bendigo Club Oval were Tracey Anderson, Amelie Haigh, Nadia Peebles and Gabby Speirs.
The Demons’ squad for this match includes Daisy Gee, Hannah Ripper, Oakley Turner and Ella Watkins.
Golden Square dominated the Anzac Day match against Sandhurst to score a 46-nil victory.
In-form players for the blue and gold include Ayesha Gideon, Caitie Williamson, Gabby Drage and Claire Picone.
Castlemaine and North Bendigo have the bye.
Champions IGA-backed CVFL senior women’s footy ladder:
Castlemaine 3287 per cent, 16 points; Golden Square 614, 12; Eaglehawk 262, 8; Marong 271, 4; Sandhurst 32, 4; North Bendigo 16, 4; White Hills 35, 0; Bendigo Thunder 0.1, 0.
Meanwhile, round two in the CVFL under-18 girls competition will be played on Sunday.
It’s the rematch of the ’24 grand final as White Hills plays Golden Square from 11.15am at the Scott Street ground in White Hills.
Last September it was the Demons who scored a 28-14 victory against the Bulldogs to claim premiership glory.
Eaglehawk takes on Woorinen from 11.15am at Eaglehawk’s Canterbury Park on Sunday.
Sandhurst and Kangaroo Flat clash from 1.30pm at Queen Elizabeth Oval.
Champions IGA-backed CVFL under-18 girls footy ladder:
Golden Square 125 per cent, 4 points; White Hills 0, 4; Woorinen 0, 4; Sandhurst 79, 0; Eaglehawk 0, 0; Kangaroo Flat 0, 0; Strathfieldsaye 0, 0.
Picture by Jonathon MagrathA new fire station may still be months away from opening after a water pressure test failed
All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe Golden Square Fire Brigade's new station at Specimen Hill Road is near completion
however an amendment to planning documents shows changes are needed
The CFA needs to install two water tanks and pumps "due to fire hydrant pressure and flow testing" failing
The fire hydrants were located on Emmett Street
Works on the $5.7 million Golden Square Fire Station started in December 2023
The new station was needed as the brigade had outgrown its small 114-year-old heritage-listed station at High Street
The brigade is still operating out of that station until the new one is built
The group has 53 volunteer members and responds to an average of 190 emergency callouts each year
The new station will include improved amenities for all volunteers and more areas for meetings
CFA District 2 Assistant Chief Fire Officer Steve Alcock said
"Our volunteers work hard to protect their growing community
so it's important we are able to provide them with adequate facilities to support their fire response," he said
A spokesperson for the state government said the new station was included in the $22 million investment into the CFA to ensure brigades have modern
safe and fit-for-purpose facilities to protect the community
"We're working with the CFA and Coliban Water to make sure appropriate water pressure is delivered to the site before the station opens in the next few months," the spokesperson said
The amendment to the plans is being considered by Bendigo council's planning team
Jonathon has been living and working in Bendigo since March 2021, currently working as a general reporter. Contact him on jonathon.magrath@austcommunitymedia.com.au.
THERE are many animals represented across the Bendigo Junior Football League this season.
Bulldogs, Cats, Dragons, Eagles, Hawks, Kangaroos, Magpies, Panthers, Sharks, Tigers all feature as club mascots.
There were also the Bloods, Blues, Bombers, Demons, Saints and Storm in action across the weekend’s grading games or matches for premiership points.
Round one in the under-12 Girls premiership season kicked off Anzac Day at Mercy Junortoun Sporst Precinct and at White Hills.
Golden Square won a closely-fought match with Rochester by two goals on O’Keefe Oval in the Mercy precinct.
Mount Pleasant won its showdown with Marong on nearby Quinn Oval by nine goals.
Other winners in the first round of the under-12 Girls matches were White Hills, St Francis Green and St Therese’s.
Grading matches for under-12 Mixed, under-14 Mixed, under-15 Girls, and under-16 Boys were played in a huge start to the league’s season.
Maiden Gully YCW’s Dayne Stone kicked nine goals in a best on ground feat against North Bendigo in the under-14 match in the Eagles’ nest t Marist College.
Knox Westley finished with eight goals for Sandhurst A in the under-14 match against Castlemaine at Bendigo’s Ewing Park.
Perry Westley kicked eight goals for St Therese’s in the under-12 Girls match against South Bendigo Red.
Charlee Lampard finished with five goals for Mount Pleasant in the under-12 Girls match against Marong.
Strathfieldsaye (2) hit the 45-goal mark in the under-14 clash with Eaglehawk B on Enterprise Oval in Strathfieldsaye’s Tannery Lane.
Storm’s attack was led by Gus Ritchie, six; Brady McDermott, four; Jimmy Fishley, Zak Garley, Noah Gaul, Declan Hilson and Harvey Young on three each.
Golden Square’s Nate Bishop kicked five goals as the Bulldogs’ number one team took on White Hills Black at Wade Street.
Patterson Murphy finished with five goals for Maiden Gully YCW (1) in the under-14 clash with Rochester played at Marist College.
Strathfieldsaye (1) marked a big win against Eaglehawk A in the under-14s match as Jed Mannix, six goals; Charlie Giddings and Jed Monaghan, five goals, capped off Storm’s attacks.
In the under-12 Mixed grading, Hudson Membrey kicked five goals for Maiden Gully YCW (1) against White Hills Black.
Golden Square’s Lewis Harrington kicked five goals against Castlemaine.
Hser Yu Say Wah booted six goals for South Bendigo (1) in the under-14 clash with Huntly at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington.
In the under-15 Girls grading, Matilda Rose kicked six goals for Kangaroo Flat against Golden Square at Wade Street.
Willow Dellar led Mount Pleasant’s attack on five goals against North Bendigo on Toolleen’s turf.
Phoebe England kicked five goals in Marong’s win against Strathfieldsaye (2) at Jackal Oval in Marong’s Malone Park.
Leading goalkickers across the under-16s grading games were Strathfieldsaye’s Aydan Hand, nine; Golden Square’s Will Hargreaves and South Bendigo’s Max Nicholas, seven; and South Bendigo’s Zavier Ralphs, six.
Players to mark five goals were Sandhurst’s Max Connick, Castlemaine’s Harper Kneebone, Charlie Dickins from White Hills, Strathfieldsaye’s Lucas Sharam, Mannix Grieve and Sam O’Bree, and Sandhurst’s Oscar Suckling.
Results from the weekend’s Bendigo JFL matches:
White Hills 9.5 (59) d Eaglehawk 0.1 (1), South Bendigo White 0.1 (1) lt St Francis Green 7.11 (53), South Bendigo Red 0.0 (0) lt St Therese’s 14.8 (92), Golden Square 4.3 (27) d Rochester 2.3 (15), Marong Blue 2.1 (13) lt Mount Pleasant 10.7 (67), Marong Yellow bye.
Golden Square (1) 1.1 (7) lt Kangaroo Flat 8.5 (53), Strathfieldsaye (1) 21.13 (139) d White Hills 0.2 (2), Eaglehawk A 4.9 (33) d Sandhurst 4.3 (27), Marong 1.1 (7) lt Rochester 9.10 (64), Mount Pleasant 13.6 (84) d North Bendigo 4.0 (24), Marong A 22.11 (143) d Strathfieldsaye (2) 0.0 (0), Sandhurst 17.11 (113) d Castlemaine 2.3 (15).
Picture by Tom O'CallaghanA car has hit a fence next to a publican and patrons in Bendigo before allegedly fleeing the scene
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinuePolice are now searching for the potentially stolen car
They say the green Toyota Camry appeared to have smashed into a wooden fence out the back of the United Kingdom Hotel's car park at around 3.15pm on Tuesday
Bendigo Highway Patrol's Sergeant Mick McCrann said the car appeared to have been trying to park when the crash unfolded
A car has allegedly smashed into a beer garden fence
Picture by Tom O'CallaghanThe driver had potentially mistaken the accelerator for the brake
"It doesn't appear to have been a deliberate act
they've caused significant damage and that will need to be rectified," Sergeant McCrann said
One end of the fence was pushed into the beer garden by the crash
knocking over a large cast-iron pot plant next to pub manager James Hunt
"We never really get stuff like that in here," he said
Multiple customers were in the beer garden at the moment of the crash and two were still there finishing their drinks a short time later
The driver left without the car's front number plate
which is understood to have been wedged in the fence
it was not yet clear whether the car matches descriptions of a green Toyota Camry police believe to have been stolen earlier
"It's yet to be confirmed at this stage," Sergeant McCrann said
I grew up in Bendigo and I want to tell your stories.
NORTH Bendigo marked a long-awaited victory in Sunday’s finale to round four in the Champions IGA-backed CVFL senior women’s football league.
The Bulldogs had not won since a 52-nil result against Marong on May 24, 2024 at North Bendigo’s Atkins Street Oval.
On Sunday the red, white and blue raced to a 31-7 lead by half-time of the clash with Winslow Constructors White Hills Demons at Bendigo Club Oval in Atkins Street.
The Demons fired up to win the second half, but it was the Jaydene Burzacott and Zak Carter-coached North Bendigo which led 51-35 at the final siren.
Kira Gibbons led the Bulldogs’ attack on three goals.
Amelie Haigh capped a fine game for the red and black by kicking three goals.
North Bendigo’s best were Shea-Lee Murphy-Burke, Marguerita Murphy, Maddie Jelbart, Cassandra Coughlan and Kourtnie Prolongeau.
Tracey Anderson, Amelie Haigh, Nadia Peebles, Gabby Speirs, Chelsea and Acacia Edwards were best for the Phil Murley-coached White Hills.
Round four began with the Anzac Day match between Golden Square and Sandhurst played under Golden Square’s lights in Wade Street.
Golden Square dominated play to mark a 46-nil victory.
An evenly fought opening term went Square’s way, 7-0.
The blue and gold added 2.5 in the second and 1.2 in the third.
Led by the play of Ayesha Gideon, Caitie Williamson and Gabby Drage, Golden Square kicked away to score 3.2 in the final term.
Gideon and captain Liz Watkins led the attack on two goals each.
Best for Golden Square included Claire Picone, Mackenzie Bickley and Emma Crossland.
Arkie Donnelly, Lara Bish, Ruby Campbell, Chloe Naughton, Annie Perryman and Sarah Baldwin were best for a Sandhurst team jointly coached by Andrew Saladino and Liam Ireland.
In Sunday’s other match, Castlemaine marked a 185-nil win on Bendigo Thunder’s turf at Weeroona Oval in Napier Street.
With eyes on a fourth consecutive premiership, Castlemaine’s ruthless edge was to the fore as it racked up 50 scoring shots.
The Jordan Cochrance-coached Magpies scored 27 goals in which 18 players featured on the goalkicking list.
Leading goalkickers for Castlemaine were Tia Davidge, four; Jemma Finning, three; Grace Brady,, Tiahna Cochrane, Eillish Cumming and Evie Nuttall on two.
Best for the Magpies were Tiahna Cochrane, Jemma Finning, Tia Davidge, Evie Nuttall, Taylah Sartori and Brianna Burt.
Stacey Barbagallo, Katherine Christie, Amity Bradford, Kate Wright, Sheridan Gallagher and Maddi Brackenerg were best for an inexperienced Thunder team which is coached by Mick McInnes.
The CVFL senior women’s footy competition returns to Queen Elizabeth Oval next Sunday when Sandhurst takes on Bendigo Thunder in the round five match from 3.30pm.
Two other matches will be played from 1pm.
Marong faces Eaglehawk at Jackal Oval in Marong’s Malone Park.
The Winslow Constructors White Hills Demons will be in their den in Scott Street to play Golden Square.
Castlemaine 3287 per cent, 16 points; Golden Square 614, 12; Eaglehawk 262, 8; Marong 271, 4; Sandhurst 32, 4; North Bendigo 16, 4; White Hills 35, 0; Bendigo Thunder 0, 0.1.
Meanwhile, the CVFL under-18 girls competition began on Anzac Day when Golden Square played Sandhurst at Golden Square’s Wade Street ground.
A great contest ended in a 34-27 win for Golden Square.
Details on goalkickers and best players were not supplied.
On Sunday the Winslow Constructors White Hills Demons won 182-nil on Kangaroo Flat’s ground at Dower Park.
Tarliah Murphy and Sophie O’Connell both kicked eight goals for the Demons.
Other multiple goalkickers for the red and black were Maci Gough on three, and Jayda Alford, Kassidy Cail and Reagan Wirken on two.
Best for White Hills were Kassidy Cail, Tarliah Murphy, Layla O’Brien, Sophie O’Connell, Maci Gough and Jayda Alford.
The Kangaroos’ best were Mieka Szakal, Maliha Dean, Shelby Kitchingham, Lora Soko and Tahlee Gray.
It was a big win for Woorinen at home against Strathfieldsaye Storm.
The Tigers romped to a 149-nil win as Sunny Barry, Charli Conway and Carly Shepherd kicked three goals each.
Ruby Butler, Mia Ferguson and Meg Young chipped in with two goals each for the yellow and black.
Woorinen’s best were Charli Conway, Ruby Butler, Meg Young, Sunny Barry, Milla and Jenna Stewart.
Chella Fitzgerald, Emily Bullock, Scarlett Ward, Molly Manton, Eva Riseley and Seonah McGregor were Strathfieldsaye’s best.
Eaglehawk faces Woorinen at Eaglehawk’s Canterbury Park from 11.15am.
White Hills and Golden Square clash at Winslow Constructors Oval in Scott Street, White Hills from 11.15am.
Sandhurst and Kangaroo Flat meet at Queen Elizabeth Oval from 1.30pm.
Picture by Darren HoweA 92-year-old driver appears to have veered off High St
Golden Square and into a parked car from which the driver had just stepped out
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe man
was thrown some distance and has been taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries
Senior Constable Peter Dyer said the man's two children and wife were still in the car at the point it was hit
but it was not known if they had been injured
A wide car was badly damanged in the crash
Picture by Darren HoweSenior Constable Dyer said the 92-year-old woman appeared to be in shock and had also been taken to the hospital for a check-up
An ambulance Victoria spokesperson said that they responded to reports of a crash in Golden Square just before 1.45pm
Paramedics assessed five people at the scene and four were taken to Bendigo Health in a stable condition
Investigations into the incident are continuing into the crash near Beech St
If you've got a story to tell, I'd love to hear from you. Email me at juanita.greville@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThis charming Victorian weatherboard in a prime Golden Square location is an old soul with a new heart
The character-filled home is ideal for all ages and stages - from young families to downsizers
It is set on an impressive corner allotment among delightful established gardens
Enter into a central hallway to find three spacious bedrooms
and a great-sized formal lounge with timber floorboards and a gas log fire
This leads to the light and airy open-plan renovated kitchen with a stainless steel electric oven
Golden SquareBeyond the kitchen area is the modern extension
which provides another bright and spacious living area for you to enjoy
This space includes a split system for heating and cooling
There's also a convenient second toilet in the outside laundry
Behind the double lock-up garage is a large room that could easily be converted into a separate dwelling
Located within easy walking distance to city amenities
this pivotal position is just a block away from everything Golden Square offers
Digital subscribers now have the convenience of faster news, right at your fingertips with the Bendigo Advertiser app. Click here to download
Picture by Darren HoweSandhurst have continued its hot start to the 2025 BFNL season with a strong 65 to 29 win over Golden Square
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinue"We set some goals early
achieved those and put forward a great game," coach Tamara Gilchrist said
She highlighted Shae Clifford and Meg Williams in the midcourt as standouts in the game
but credited the win to the whole team pulling together and "playing their role"
"As long as everybody individually is doing their job and knowing what is expected of them
"We haven't had a huge change in players so we're lucky that we already start the season with a great bond and we just get to build on the different things we need to through the season
it was a really consistent game from everybody."
The Dragons face Kangaroo Flat in a top of the table clash next week
Tough conditions hasn't held back reigning champions Gisborne from a 50 to 22 win over Strathfieldsaye
"We're working on our connections on court with a few new changes this year," head coach Tarryn Rymer said
Sanhurst's Rebecca Smith in the BFNL round three game against Golden Square
Picture by Darren Howe"That's getting better each week."
but a strong defence from Charlee Kemp and Zoe Davies helped push the team to victory
"It slows the pace of the game down a little bit but it was good to be able to adapt and adjust our game plan to those conditions."
View +18 PhotosGolden Square v Sandhurst Round 3
Pictures by Darren Howe"There was probably a few more errors than usual
with the wet ball and in terms of accuracy
Elsewhere in the Bendigo Football Netball League
South Bendigo and Eaglehawk drew 47-47 at the QEO on Anzac Day
In round 2 of the Heathcote District League
Colbinabbin stormed into the season after its round one bye with a resounding 90 to 22 defeat of Heathcote
Elmore lost a close game to White Hills with the final score 28 to 26
while Huntly defeated Leitchville-Gunbower 64 to 43
and Mount Pleasant won against Lockington Bamawm United with 62 to 32
Bridgewater went to the top of the ladder with a 69 to 13 win over Inglewood
Elsewhere Newbridge won against Maiden Gully YCW 54 to 24 in the wet on Friday night
while reigning premiers Mitiamo took the win against Pyramid Hill 65 to 55 and Marong defeated Calivil United 59 to 43
Journalist at the Bendigo Advertiser. Email me at georgina.sebar@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Picture by Darren HoweGOLDEN SQUARE SEASON PREVIEWCOACH: Brad Eaton
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueLAST SEASON: 4th (11-7
154.8%) - lost to Strathfieldsaye in first semi-final
Can you give us a quick summary of the recruits you have brought into the club from a senior perspective
"Harry Law is a dynamic small forward with good skills and a good work-rate
mature player; a good ball-user and defensively-minded
"Carson James could play either inside or outside as a midfielder; he uses the ball well and is another player with a good work-rate
impact player who will compete all day in the ruck
"And Dermott Bell is nippy player with good leg speed
can win the inside ball and play a variety of roles."
Clearly there's a couple of notable outs in particular on the departure list with Tom Toma and Ricky Monti headed to Cohuna
You spoke earlier in the pre-season that you still believe though you have enough arsenal to remain competitive through that part of the ground
"Jordan Rosengren played through the middle last year and was our best and fairest winner
He's a different type of player to the boys who have rolled through there
"Tommy Strauch spent time through the middle last year
but will probably spend more time around the footy this season
He's a great tackler and applies great pressure and has been working really hard on his running patterns and inside ball-winning abilities
"Jack McMahon is a young player up from the under-18s
He had some injuries last year and missed a big chunk of footy
He had the option to go over-age Pioneers because of that
but has decided senior footy might be the best way forward for his development
HOW IS YOUR TEAM SHAPING UP: Keep up to date with our 2025 season previews
"He is very physical for a player his age and just competes really hard
He will go through the middle along with the likes of Carson James
so he will play some minutes through there
"Harrison Kelly played more as a winger last year
we've played Brodie James through there in the practice matches and there's Terry Reeves as well
played really well in the finals and has been one of our more consistent players through the pre-season
so we're looking forward to having him available for round one."
Golden Square coach Brad Eaton.Twelve months ago the club had just come off a fairly tumultuous off-season I think it's fair to say given the turnover of players and coaching change and there was a real sense of unknown about Golden Square
how do you feel this group is placed headed into 2025 and its capacity to remain a top-five team
"We lost some games early in the season last year that were probably there for the taking
so internally our expectation is that honourable losses are a thing of the past now
"We understand the competition is going to be a lot tighter this year and you're not going to be ale to have those lapses from week to week
"As a group we came back in a much better position fitness-wise and strength-wise and having a lot of the list come back it has given us the opportunity from the start of pre-season to do a lot more structure-based training
"We'll see how it goes; there's always a risk any time you look to bring in a different gamestyle
the intent and work-rate of the playing group over the pre-season has been really good
We lost some games early in the season last year that were probably there for the taking
"We need to hit the ground running from round one and make sure we don't cost ourselves games early in the season
"We were fortunate enough in the back end of the year to get a bit healthier and more consistency in our playing group and were able to peel off some good wins and put ourselves in a position to play finals
"We didn't perform at the level we wanted to in the finals though and that has been driving the boys
The expectation is we need to continue on the momentum we've created and not take a backwards step."
Golden Square's 2024 season summary.Who have been couple of the younger players that have particularly impressed on the track over the pre-season
Ollie (Eaton) has been doing a lot of work along with four or five of the other younger players outside of our normal sessions and been going really well
"Zac Wescott as I mentioned earlier has had a really big pre-season and is in really good shape
"Xavier Carter had a late start to pre-season because of his ankle injury last year
but he's going well; Noah Warfe has added some more size
which is what you want to see in terms of us developing him into a key position defender
"Jesse Gill has been really good in the pre-season and performed well in our back six over the practice matches
"Jimmy Wilkinson had a couple of goes in the seniors in our practice matches and is another of those boys who has been doing the extra work
is super fit and been running with the midfielders
His goal is to play senior footy this year and has been good
"Tommi Turner played in our reserves last year and was probably on the brink of playing his first senior game before hurting his knee; he is another who could get an opportunity in the seniors based off his work in the pre-season."
Jack Stewart was Golden Square's leading goalkicker last year with 51.How is the health of the list headed into round one this week against Eaglehawk
Zack Shelton has a suspension hanging over from last year
so he will miss round one and Harry Law is probably indefinite at this stage with a back complaint that he is working through
"Dylan Hird is coming back from a shoulder reco
so he's probably somewhere between rounds six to 10
so we're not sure if he will play round one or not
so there's probably four or five we will be missing."
.......................................................................
Golden Square$675,000 - $740,000AGENCY: Team Real Estate BendigoCONTACT: Linda Currie 0438 381 900INSPECT: 10.15-10.45am Mar 15Sitting in the desirable suburb of Golden Square is this charming Victorian-era weatherboard house
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueSurrounded by established gardens
this property has modern updates while retaining a multitude of period features
The additions are complementary to the original structure
Even the colours of the double garage match those chosen for the house and fences
The home has three bedrooms and two separate living spaces
Click here to read this week's view.com.au emag
View +4 PhotosThe layout starts with a central hall leading past the bedrooms - each of which has a built-in robe or two - and the lounge room with a gas log fire
A doorway then takes you into the open plan kitchen and dining room and onto the living room - which has reverse-cycle split-system air-conditioning plus gas heating - as well as the family bathroom
The updated kitchen has a breakfast bar and a recess for a big family-sized fridge
It also has a stainless steel electric oven and gas hotplates
There's also another toilet in the separate laundry
Immediately behind the double garage is an even bigger shed space
which can be accessed directly from the garage or from the extremely low-maintenance backyard
Picture by Luke WestTHE history books will show Golden Square as the Bendigo District Cricket Association's women's first XI premiers for season 2024-25
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueHowever
on Sunday women's cricket in Bendigo was the big winner
In a sign of the growth of the competition
for the first time the BDCA's showcase women's game of the season was played on the Queen Elizabeth Oval between Golden Square and Bendigo
Golden Square duly lived up to its status as the raging hot favourites to win by nine wickets
cap an unbeaten season and claim its third-straight premiership
Both clubs agreed it was a day of significance for women's cricket to play the grand final on Bendigo's premier ground for the first time
"It's amazing and I feel like it sets the standard that this is where we deserve to be," Golden Square coach and BDCA board member Sarah Mannes said
"There's no doubt the quality of cricket in the women's competition has gotten better over the past few years
I couldn't be more happier for the way it has gone."
There's no doubt the quality of cricket in the women's competition has gotten better over the past few years
I couldn't be more happier for the way it has gone
Golden Square captain Tammy Norquay echoed the sentiments of Mannes in strongly endorsing the QEO as the grand final venue
"It was huge to be able to play the grand final on the QEO today," Norquay said
"It's the premier wicket in the league; we've always been saying that we should get a go out here like the boys do with their grand final
"It's great the council was able to get up a great wicket for us today..
it really was a fantastic wicket for us and this is where women's cricket needs to be
And while the result didn't go her side's way
Bendigo skipper Amy Ryan says her side relished the opportunity to experience cricket on the QEO
"It was amazing to be able to play out on the QEO today and it was a fantastic atmosphere," Ryan said
"We appreciate all the supporters coming along and I saw a few girls from other teams here as well
The chief run-scorers for the Goers were the top-order pair of openers Letesha Bawden (24) and coach Ren Haeusler (23)
who was caught by Tammy Norquay at mid-wicket off Hannah Flood in the fifth over to have the Goers 1-11
Bawden and Haeusler added 30 for the second wicket
Bawden faced 41 balls and struck two boundaries in her innings of 24
while Haeusler's 23 came at a run-a-ball and also featured two fours
As well as Bawden and Hauesler at the top of the order
the other main contributions for the Goers came from the middle-order pair of Zoe Ross (14) and Natalie Flood (13)
Opening bowler Flood (2-8) and Megan Baird (2-12) both took two wickets apiece for Golden Square
which also had four players claim one wicket each - Paige Conder (1-12)
View +16 PhotosPictures by Enzo TomasielloGOLDEN SQUARE'S INNINGSIn reply Golden Square lost just one wicket in chasing down its target
Openers Norquay (40 n.o.) and Mannes (43) put on 84 for the first wicket
Mannes - who made 685 runs for the season - was the only wicket to fall when caught at cover by Haeusler off Ryan (1-9) first ball after drinks had been taken after 15 overs
Mannes' 43 came off 46 balls with six boundaries
The dismissal of Mannes brought Sarah Perry (11 n.o.) to the wicket
and it was she who finished the game off for Golden Square
hitting the runs with a mid-wicket boundary on the third ball of the 17th over
Picture by Enzo TomasielloPlayer of the match Norquay finished 40 n.o
with her innings featuring four boundaries and one six
While Ryan was the only wicket-taker for the Goers
Letesha Bawden (0-6 off three) and Rachael Gray (0-10 off three) were tight
Both sides were also well disciplined with the ball
GOLDEN SQUARE'S WINNING TEAM - Megan Baird
Golden Square's combined record over its three-consecutive premiership seasons is now 43-2 from 45 games
The side hasn't been beaten since a five-wicket loss to Bendigo on January 21 last year
On the achievement of completing an undefeated season:
"We spoke during the week that it will be whichever team comes out and executes the best will come away with the win
"It was really important for us today to come out and be on top from the start
"We weren't sure whether we wanted to bowl or bat first
but we ended up bowling and that worked out well for us and gave us a chance to settle into the game
"I'm really proud to go through undefeated and finish if off today."
Picture by Enzo TomasielloOn the performance of her bowling unit to keep Bendigo to a score under 100:
"Turning up this morning it looked like there was going to be heaps of runs in the wicket
so that's why I was a bit unsure of whether I wanted to bat or bowl first
it showed our bowlers did their job really well
"We're very fortunate to have both the batting and line-up that we do and I think that's a credit to the club to attract really good players
"It all does start with the club; they are so supportive as you can tell with the boys that are here today watching
"It's a great club and we're very fortunate to have the talent pool that we do."
the importance of experience in a grand final:
"The main thing is it's a great group of girls and that's why we keep coming back
playing together and spending time with each other
"There's quite a gap in ages within our team
but I'm sure everyone will keep coming back as long as we keep doing what we're doing."
On the added accolade of being named player of the match:
but I guess that's just the little things that helps to top the day off
The main thing for today was winning the premiership and we've been able to get that for the girls."
....................................................................
On the learnings her young side will take from the grand final experience (the Goers also lost to Golden Square last year):
"We were very excited going into today; we're a very young side having eight players under the age of 24 and four still in school
"We're growing and improving each year and we can only go up from here
but not disappointed in the girls efforts today
"I'm incredibly proud of the season and the girls efforts today
Picture by Enzo Tomasiello"It still took Golden Square more than 16 overs to get the runs
"I think we just lacked a bit in our batting depth
"We're looking positive towards the future with such a young side
"Golden Square is a stacked side and you expect them to be good
Eaglehawk has capped its first season with a senior women's team by winning the second XI premiership
the second XI winning margin was nine wickets with the Hawks beating Golden Square at Junortoun
Golden Square made 3-70 off its 20 overs batting first
but women's cricket on QEO the big winnerYoung gun Macey White led the Hawks' attack with 2-8 off four overs
before Eaglehawk comfortably chased down its target in just over 10 overs
with the opening duo of Crystal West (31) and Melissa Hillard (28 n.o.) leading the successful run-chase
More first XI grand final pictures online at www.bendigoadvertiser.com.au
GSFNC's Ian Symons and GSFNC under-16 players are excited about the new partnership.GOLDEN Square Football Netball Club is joining forces with the Bendigo Umpires Association in a bid to arrest one of the biggest issues confronting country football - umpiring stocks
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueIn a history-making program for central Victorian football
Golden Square will become the first club to form a volunteer umpiring group that will assist with the officiating of matches across a range of age groups
The BUA will provide coaching and education for the volunteer umpiring group
starting with a five-week program from Thursday
"This initiative is designed to introduce participants to all facets of umpiring in a familiar and welcoming environment and future proof the club so they are never short of quality umpires in junior or senior games,'' Symons said
"Other clubs are invited to take this opportunity
which could help to greatly enhance the quality and quantity of umpires in all our local leagues."
BUA director of coaching Dean Goodridge and GSFNC's Ian SymonsAFL field umpire John Howorth
will assist BUA director of coaching Dean Goodridge in educating the umpiring group
"I commend the Golden Square FNC for its insight in initiating the concept of a volunteer umpire group,'' Goodridge said
"The BUA recognises the challenges of supplying suitably qualified umpires to the many games throughout the region from Friday night to Sunday afternoon
Many umpires officiate on at least two days over the weekend
which is a massive commitment throughout the winter months
especially junior clubs on a Sunday to supply their own umpires."
AFL umpire John Howorth is a product of the BUA.The program is not just open to people involved with Golden Square FNC
women and children aged 12 and above who have an interest in umpiring are invited to join the group
The BUA and GSFNC invite former footballers to return to the game they love by joining the group
The free education sessions will take place at Golden Square's home ground in Wade Street on five consecutive Thursdays
Anyone who would like to register their interest in the volunteer group can contact the BUA at bendigoumpires@gmail.com or the GSFNC at gsfnc.committee@gmail.com
All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueDevelopment Victoria is supporting the remediation and Healing Country works to restore the health of the land
making it fit for future use in the community
Located at 9-43 Chum Street adjacent to the Bendigo Day Surgery carpark and opposite the Fortuna Villa Estate
the site has been largely vacant since the 1950s when mining stopped
When the Bendigo Advertiser visited the site on Tuesday
a kangaroo was bounding through the undulating site which is covered with trees and shrubs
Some evidence of the mining operation remains scattered on the ground
Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation (DJAARA) chief executive officer Rodney Carter said bringing former mining sites back to health - the healing of upside-down Country - was a key goal of DJAARA's Dhelkunya Dja (Healing Country) Country Plan
"We all want healthy Country," Mr Carter said
we feel a deep responsibility and cultural obligation to heal it and look after it
"Despite the devastating impacts left by mining at this location and across Djandak (Country)
there have been few efforts to heal impacted areas
"It is for this reason DJAARA welcomes this partnership
from which significant planning and action will follow
so this site can be healthy and functioning once again."
View +2 PhotosDevelopment Victoria and DJAARA will work together to rehabilitate an old mining site at 9-43 Chum Street.Development Victoria's group head of housing Penelope Forrest said Chum Street was significantly degraded because of past mining activities
"It's important we embrace First People's cultural knowledge and understanding and restore this historically contaminated site into a safe and valuable asset that will provide substantial benefits to DJAARA and the wider Bendigo community," Ms Forrest said
DJAARA has carried out waterway assessments at the site and developed a plan for staged rehabilitation
Development Victoria will undertake the healing and remediation of the area in accordance with Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) requirements
EPA chief executive officer Lee Miezis said the authority would provide clear regulatory advice throughout the project
Preliminary environmental and geotechnical works in Chum Street are expected to start in late 2024
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GOLDEN Square Pool is the place to be on Tuesday 31 December for families looking to end the year in a laid-back community-run neighborhood oasis
the New Year’s Eve party will finish up by 8.30pm
in time to head into town or the nearby hills to view the early Bendigo fireworks at 9.15pm
Golden Square Pool president and general manager Sam Kane said the popular annual event is a great opportunity for families and neighbours to get together in a relaxed environment
free from a ‘large party’ atmosphere
Mr Kane said the fully supervised event will help raise much-needed money to pay for the pool’s operating costs
“We’re a fully volunteer operated organisation,” he said
“We rely on the support of our community to continue doing what we do
so events such as this are also great fundraisers for us to be able to ensure that we can open each and every day
“We’re very grateful that our community enjoys the work that we do and come back year after year
so we encourage everybody to come on down and have a fun evening to bring in the new year
Families are encouraged to take a picnic to the alcohol-free event
Normal entry prices apply and season pass holders can attend for free
and the venue will be open earlier in the day as per normal hours
Further information is available on the pool’s Facebook page.
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueEmergency crews were called to the scene at around 1pm and found a badly damaged red sedan
Acting Sergeant Steve Barr said a 35-year-old man was the only person in the car when it crashed into the tree next to High Street's the north-bound lanes
"He's up to hospital to be assessed for his level of injury," the police officer said
It was not yet clear what caused the crash and Acting Sergeant Barr encouraged any witnesses or people with dashcam footage to come forward
He said they could call the Bendigo Highway Patrol
One woman who lives near the scene of the crash said she was in her garden when the crash unfolded
'Almighty bang': sedan crashes into tree on busy road into Bendigo"I heard this almighty bang," she said
The sedan was badly damaged in the crash and appeared all but written off as it was pulled from the tree
How long have you lived in your ward? 17 years
Community involvement: My family and I have volunteered for and supported many local activities including a school, footy club, community pool, fire services, and neighbourhood hub. This year I helped start a Golden Square action group to understand community needs and empower local solutions. I remain an active member and volunteer of this group, assisting with coordination of meetings and involvement in local projects
Associated with a political party or movement?
Campaign budget? Receiving financial support?: I don’t have a set budget. Not currently receiving financial support.
Three most important issues in your ward?:
1. Revitalising our precincts to support our local businesses and create a vibrant, liveable community.
2. Improving amenities for access, walkability, and safety.
3. Improving our recreation reserves to meet the needs of all users.
very special and historic property," said Craig Tweed
"It's not every day people have the opportunity to buy a pretty substantial hall with another six rooms and so well-exposed on the High St corner."
The building includes a 16 x 18.4 metre hall
A crowd of about 25 people showed up to watch two people bid on the property which was eventually sold to a local business identity
It is not yet known what the property will be used for
Picture by Luke WestGOLDEN Square has earned the right to contend for its first top flight premiership in Bendigo weekend pennant lawn bowls for 11 years
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueSquare will take on Moama for the premier league flag after outlasting South Bendigo in Saturday's preliminary final at Bendigo
Golden Square's season of resurgence continued with its 86-81 victory
knocking the Diggers out of the finals series in straight sets
Competing in its first finals series since 2016-17 Square has thrived under pressure
defeating Bendigo and South Bendigo in do-or-die finals over the past two weeks to earn its shot at Moama
"We had the game under control for periods today
which certainly fought its way back into it," Golden Square skipper Andrew Brown said
we can go that bit extra towards the end of the game next week."
The game was still alive entering the final end of the match to be contested between the rinks of Bryce Young (Golden Square) and Dale Oddy (South Bendigo)
The Diggers needed four shots to tie or five to win on the final end
but it was Square that picked up one shot to propel into its first grand final since it defeated Eaglehawk to win the 2013-14 premiership
Square subsequently made the finals the following two years after its premiership win
before enduring an eight-season absence prior to its return this season
While Saturday's contest was tight overall with just five shots the difference
there was some one-sided match-ups across the four rink battles
The closest of the game was the seven shots South Bendigo's Liam Crapper defeated Brown by (26-19)
View +26 PhotosPictures by Luke WestThe biggest margin was the 21 shots Square's Dylan Fisher won by against the Diggers' Gary Ryan (36-15)
who was skipping for the first time this season
Fisher and fellow Square marquee player Alex Skilton took their place in the side after the Premier League Queensland competition they were due to play in over the weekend was postponed because of the Ex-Cyclone Alfred conditions in Queensland
has a grand final to look forward to next weekend South Bendigo is now 0-4 in finals since winning the 2022 flag
The Diggers lost in the elimination final the previous two years before this season's straight sets exit
"Square was around 15 shots up through most of the middle patch of the game; we got it back within half-a-dozen at the end
They were just too good in the end," South Bendigo coach Brad Holland said
Golden Square and Moama will meet in the premier division grand final at Eaglehawk next Sunday
DIVISION 1 - Bendigo East 101 def Castlemaine 69
DIVISION 2 - Eaglehawk 85 def Strathfieldsaye 59
DIVISION 4 - White Hills 101 def Calivil 52
DIVISION 5 - Bendigo 83 def Golden Square 57
DIVISION 6 - North Bendigo 61 def Strathfieldsaye 41
DIVISION 7 - Strathfieldsaye 46 def Harcourt Blue 30
Square strives to deny Castlemaine premiership hat-trick
GOLDEN Square stands in the way of Castlemaine achieving a premiership hat-trick in Friday night’s Champions IGA-backed senior women’s footy grand final at Bendigo’s Queen Elizabeth Oval.
The Bulldogs face a huge task against the unbeaten Magpies.
The clash to decide the league’s champion of ’24 kicks off at 7.30pm.
Since its loss to Golden Square in the second semi-final of the 2022 season, Castlemaine is undefeated.
A great run by the Jordan Cochrane-coached Castlemaine includes a 38-19 win against Golden Square in the grand final of two years ago and last September’s victory against Woorinen by 17 points to hoist the premiership cup once again.
A sign of Castlemaine’s dominance across the home-and-away series was 16 wins and a percentage of 972.
The Nathan Manuel-coached Golden Square was next best on a 13-3 record.
First showdown between the Magpies and Bulldogs this season was in round four where Castlemaine won 77-15 on its turf in Camp Reserve.
Next meeting was round 13 where Castlemaine won the Indigenous Round match on Golden Square’s Fur Life Oval by 37 points.
Lightning meant the second semi-final between Castlemaine and Golden Square was abandoned.
A week later and Golden Square marked a 44-27 win against Woorinen in the preliminary final.
Several players who were selected in the CVFL senior women’s Team of the Year will be in action in the grand final.
League fairest and best Maeve Tupper was selected as rover in the Team of the Year and will be determined to add a premiership medal to her tally.
The Magpies also had Rachael Stubbings and Jemma Finning selected at half-back and on a wing in the Team of the Year.
A league record of 92 goals in 16 matches by Golden Square gun meant Paynton Jolliffe was selected as full-forward.
Other stars in Golden Square’s run and selected in the Team of the Year were Taylah Moore, full-back; captain Liz Watkins at half-back; and Victoria Winstanley in a forward pocket.
There is plenty of goalscoring power in both line-ups.
Castlemaine’s attack is led by Eloise Gretgrix 57; Tiahna Cochrane 32; Tiffany Bradley 30; Rachael Stubbings 27; and Brianna Burt 25.
Although Jolliffe is the key target in Golden Square’s forward line the blue and gold also has Taylah Moore, 36; Isabella Ayre, 27; and Victoria Winstanley, 22.
Key players for Castlemaine include Ella Cochrane, Taylah Sartori, Lily den Houting, Emma Pedretti and Abbey Bertram.
Golden Square will look to Carly Geary, Courtney Hingston, Terina Pickering, Claire Picone, Molly Forde and Sarah Mannes to lead the way to victory.
Round 1: d Sandhurst, 134-17 at Ewing Park.
Round 2:d Woorinen, 134-24 at Camp Reserve.
Round 3: d Bendigo Thunder, 130-14 at Weeroona Oval.
Round 4: d Golden Square, 77-15 at Camp Reserve.
Round 5: d Eaglehawk, 127-18 at Canterbury Park.
Round 6: d North Bendigo, 161-6 at Camp Reserve.
Round 8: d Marong, 158-0 at East West Oval, Malone Park.
Round 9: d White Hills, 173-0 at Camp Reserve.
Round 10: d Sandhurst, 82-3 at Camp Reserve.
Round 12: d Bendigo Thunder, 132-8 at Camp Reserve.
Round 13: d Golden Square, 62-25 at Fur Life Oval.
Round 14: d Eaglehawk, 47-14 at Camp Reserve.
Round 15: d North Bendigo, 166-1 at Bendigo Club Oval.
Round 17: d Marong, 101-0 at Camp Reserve.
Round 18: d White Hills, 204-1 at Winslow Constructors Oval.
2nd semi-final: v Golden Square, abandoned at Queen Elizabeth Oval.
Round 2: d Eaglehawk, 75-17 at Canterbury Park.
Round 3: d North Bendigo, 162-7 at Fur Life Oval.
Round 4: lt Castlemaine, 15-77 at Camp Reserve.
Round 5: d Marong, 199-0 at Fur Life Oval.
Round 6: d White Hills, 200-0 at Winslow Constructors Oval.
Round 7: d Sandurst, 76-7 at Fur Life Oval.
Round 9: d Bendigo Thunder, 147-0 at Fur Life Oval.
Round 11: d Eaglehawk, 69-2 at Fur Life Oval.
Round 12: d North Bendigo, 171-6 at Bendigo Club Oval.
Round 13: lt Castlemaine, 25-62 at Fur Life Oval.
Round 14: d Marong, 119-6 at East West Oval, Malone Park.
Round 15: d White Hills, 216-0 at Fur Life Oval.
Round 16: d Sandhurst, 57-14 at Queen Elizabeth Oval.
Round 17: lt Woorinen, 42-45 at Fur Life Oval.
Round 18: d Bendigo Thunder, 161-0 at Weeroona Oval.
2nd semi-final: v Castlemaine, abandoned at Queen Elizabeth Oval.
Preliminary final: d Woorinen, 44-27 at Queen Elizabeth Oval.
Grand final night for the Champions IGA-backed CVFL kicks off with the under-18 girls match between Golden Square and the Winslow White Hills Demons at 5.30pm.
A 13-2 record put White Hills on top of the ladder and three wins clear of Golden Square at the end of the home-and-away series.
In the second semi-final it was Golden Square which dominated play on the QEO turf to record a 47-6 victory.
Best for the Bulldogs in a stunning result were Ava Barker, Mackenzie Bickley, Bella Eddy and Gemma McPhee.
White Hills fought back to score a 43-9 win against Woorinen in the preliminary final.
Best for the Demons were Eve Cail, Tahlia Kendall, Sasha Pearce and Jayda Alford.
Five of Golden Square’s rising stars were selected in the league’s Team of the Year.
Those to earn the honour were Lily Mansfield, centre; Makayla Roberts, wing; Ella Gourley, forward pocket; Gemma McPhee, ruck; and Ava Barker, ruck-rover.
Leading goalkickers for Golden Square are Ruby Demeo, 22; Tiara Davis, 18; Lily Mansfield, 15; and Ava Barker, 13.
The White Hills trio in the Team of the Year is Jorja Morrison, half-back; Amelie Haigh, half-forward; and Mia Clark, rover.
A strong attack in red and black includes Mia Clark, 33 goals; Nadia Peebles, 26; Eve Cail, 20; Tarliah Murphy, 20; and Amelie Haigh 14.
Round 2: d Eaglehawk, 154-0 at Canterbury Park.
Round 3: d Woorinen, 40-21 at Fur Life Oval.
Round 4: d Castlemaine, 41-9 at Camp Reserve.
Round 6: lt White Hills, 16-57 at Winslow Constructors Oval.
Round 7: d Sandhurst, 74-20 at Fur Life Oval.
Round 9: d Sandhurst, 22-18 at Queen Elizabeth Oval.
Round 10: lt Strathfieldsaye, 34-39 at Fur Life Oval.
Round 11: d Eaglehawk, 138-13 at Fur Life Oval.
Round 12: lt Strathfieldsaye, 20-41 at Enterprise Oval.
Round 13: d Castlemaine, 62-0 at Fur Life Oval.
Round 15: d White Hills, 44-28 at Fur Life Oval.
Round 16: d Sandhurst, 76-38 at Queen Elizabeth Oval.
Round 17: d Castlemaine, 80-2 at Fur Life Oval.
Round 18: lt Strathfieldsaye, 23-47 at Triple M Park.
Second semi-final: d White Hills, 47-6 at Queen Elizabeth Oval.
Round 1: d Eaglehawk, 180-0 at Canterbury Park.
Round 3: d Sandhurst, 82-59 at Ewing Park.
Round 4: d Woorinen, 104-38 at Winslow Constructors Oval.
Round 5: d Strathfieldsaye, 105-59 at Winslow Constructors Oval.
Round 6: d Golden Square, 57-16 at Winslow Constructors Oval.
Round 7: d Eaglehawk, 121-3 at Canterbury Park.
Round 9: d Castlemaine, 80-14 at Camp Reserve.
Round 12: d Sandhurst, 38-31 at Winslow Constructors Oval.
Round 14: d Strathfieldsaye, 70-16 at Triple M Park.
Round 15: lt Golden Square, 28-44 at Fur Life Oval.
Round 16: d Eaglehawk, 120-9 at Winslow Constructors Oval.
Round 17: d Strathfieldsaye, 47-28 at Winslow Constructors Oval.
Round 18: d Castlemaine, 86-13 at Winslow Constructors Oval.
Second semi-final: lt Golden Square, 6-47 at Queen Elizabeth Oval.
Preliminary final: d Woorinen, 43-9 at Queen Elizabeth Oval.
Residents will soon be welcomed to Golden Square in Bendigo following the completion of 35 new homes.
The $16.6 million Allan Labor Government project has been delivered in partnership with Wintringham Housing, a not-for-profit housing association focused on providing social housing for those over 50 years of age.
The site has been designed with residents' livability needs at the forefront, with each unit featuring a private outdoor space and wheelchair accessibility throughout all the homes, and across the entire development.
The newest households to Golden Square are expected to move in from February 2025 and will soon enjoy close proximity to key amenities such as public transport, local shops, allied health services, and parks including Backhaus Oval Reserve, and Sparrowhawk Gully Bushland Reserve.
The prime Golden Square location was previously home to a local motel, and now proudly offers safe, secure and modern housing on site.
The development will achieve an average Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) rating of 7-stars, ensuring energy efficiency and comfort within all homes.
In the City of Greater Bendigo alone, more than $155 million has been invested through the Labor Government's Big Housing Build and other social housing programs to build more than 370 new social and affordable homes.
More than 10,100 homes are underway or complete right across the state as part of the Government's $6.3 billion investment into social housing, with nearly 5,500 households moving in or moved into brand new homes.
Across regional Victoria, the Big Housing Build and Regional Housing Fund have seen more than 1,800 new homes already completed. Right now, a further 1,680 are underway with thousands more to come.
As stated by Minister for Housing Harriet Shing
"More homes mean more opportunity, particularly for people over 50 years of age who can be vulnerable to homelessness and poverty. This development in Bendigo will give residents access to secure, modern, and energy efficient homes that are close to transport and services."
As stated by Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan
"Our record investment in social and affordable housing is providing homes for locals who need them while also creating thousands of local jobs."
As stated by Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards
"We're providing Victorians with comfortable and energy-efficient homes, and these single units are a great example of what is possible for regional Victorians in need."
Picture by Jonathon MagrathA man has been arrested after another man was found with serious injuries at a Bendigo motel
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueEmergency services were called to the Heritage Motel at Golden Square at about 10am on Thursday
A 34-year-old man was found with serious injuries, a spokesperson for the police said
Police's enquiries led them to Bendigo's city centre
and a 33-year-old man was arrested on Hargreaves Street at about 12pm
is in custody while the investigation continues
The motel was declared a crime scene and has been cordoned off with police tape
AN UNBEATEN streak of more than 30 matches is likely to roll on as Castlemaine chases a fourth premiership in a row in this year’s Champions IGA-backed CVFL senior women’s footy competition.
The Jordan Cochrane-coached Castlemaine has set an incredibly high standard across the past three years.
After beating Golden Square in the 2022 grand final, Castlemaine has since claimed cup wins against Woorinen in ’23 and Golden Square last September.
In ’25 the Magpie Army will brace for attacks from the likes of Golden Square, Woorinen, Eaglehawk and Sandhurst.
There’s been changes to the coaching structure at five of the league’s nine clubs.
First match of the season will be the clash between Eaglehawk and White Hills on April 4 from 7pm on the Borough’s turf at Canterbury Park.
Here’s a club-by-club glance leading into the ’25 campaign:
The Mick McInnes-coached Thunder will be keen to strike back after finishing last season in sixth place and a 6-10 win-loss tally.
Last season’s play by Greta Murphy, Lucy El Hage, Jaime Sawers was capped with selection in the High St X-ray Team of the Year.
Thunder’s run in ’25 begins on home turf at Weeroona Oval in Napier Street against Golden Square on April 6.
In round two it’s Thunder against Marong at Jackal Oval in Marong’s Malone Park.
On Easter Sunday, Thunder hosts Woorinen at Weeroona Oval.
Anzac weekend includes the April 27 match between Thunder and Castlemaine at Weeroona Oval.
A premiership hat-trick is a feat not many clubs have achieved.
This year it’s the Jordan Cochrane-coached Castlemaine aiming to join elite company.
Strength of the Castlemaine team was reflected in the High Street X-ray Team of the Year as Jemma Finning, Rachael Stubbings and Maeve Tupper were selected.
A brilliant season by Tupper was capped with the league’s fairest and best award.
Castlemaine had plenty of attacking options through Eloise Gretgrix, 59 goals; Tiffany Bradley, 30; Brianna Burt, 28; and Rachael Stubbings, 28.
The Magpies will unfurl the ’24 premiership flag before they play Woorinen in the round one match on April 4 at Camp Reserve.
In round two the Magpies take on Sandhurst at Ewing Park in Bendigo’s Williamson Street.
Good Friday will feature a night game between Castlemaine and Golden Square from 7pm at Camp Reserve.
The Magpies complete the opening month of the season by playing Bendigo Thunder on Weeroona Oval in round four.
A win-loss tally of 10-5 and a draw meant the Hawks finished last year’s home-and-away series in fourth place.
The Borough’s run was ended in a 37-13 loss to Woorinen in the first semi-final.
This season Molly Metcalf takes charge as coach.
A superb ’24 campaign by Metcalf meant she was joint runner-up for the league’s fairest and best award and selection at centre half-forward in the Team of the Year.
The Hawks kick off this season with the April 4 home game against White Hills at Canterbury Park.
In round two the Hawks play at Golden Square on April 13 and then meet North Bendigo on Good Friday under the Canterbury Park lights.
It’s the clash of the Panthers and Hawks in the fourth round as Marong and Eaglehawk clash at Jackal Oval in Malone Park.
Last season’s runner-up, Golden Square has a new coaching structure in which Kellie Dadds and Carly Geary team up as co-coaches.
The Bulldogs are likely to be a strong contender once again after the Nathan Manuel-coached team achieved a 13-3 record in last year’s home-and-away series.
After the second semi was abandoned because of weather, Golden Square won the preliminary final against Woorinen by 17 points.
Paynton Jolliffe kicked a league record 94 goals in 17 matches and was full-forward in the Team of the Year.
Taylah Moore, Liz Watkins and Victoria Winstanley were also selected.
This season’s action for the blue and gold kicks off with the April 6 clash on Bendigo Thunder’s ground at Weeroona Oval.
The Bulldogs are home at Wade Street to play Eaglehawk in round two.
On Good Friday it’s Golden Square against Castlemaine under the lights at Camp Reserve from 7pm.
A testing start to Square’s season includes the round four match against Sandhurst on Anzac Day from 7.15pm on the Bulldogs’ ground.
The Panthers marked their debut season in the CVFL senior women’s competition by winning two matches on the way to eighth placing.
Jimmy Evenden stays on as coach and in ’25 will be joined by Daniel Bourke.
A highlight for the Panthers was the consistent play of Dani Jeffery to earn Team of the Year selection.
Marong is home at the newly-named Jackal Oval in Malone Park to play Sandhurst in round one on April 6.
The Panthers are home again to play Bendigo Thunder in round two.
On Easter Sunday it will be the Panthers in action at White Hills.
Anzac weekend includes the April 27 match between Eaglehawk and Marong at Jackal Oval.
The red, white and blue has appointed Jaydene Burzacott and Zak Carter as joint coaches.
North Bendigo will be determined to climb up from last year’s ninth placing in which it marked one win and a draw.
The play of Kira Gibbons earnt selection at centre half-back in the CVFL Team of the Year.
After a first-round bye in the ’25 season, North Bendigo makes the trek to Woorinen to face the Tigers.
The Bulldogs then play Eaglehawk on Good Friday under lights at Canterbury Park.
First of North Bendigo’s home games on the newly-named Bendigo Club Oval in Atkins Street will be on April 27 against White Hills.
Another of the league’s newcomers in ’24, Sandhurst finished in fifth placing after a run of nine wins, six defeats and a draw.
This year it’s Andrew Saladino and Liam Ireland who team up to coach the maroon and blue.
A talented squad includes Amanda Carrod, Lily and Ruby Campbell who were in the Team of the Year.
The Dragons make their way to Jackal Oval in Marong’s Malone Park to face the Panthers in round one on April 6.
Next round the Dragons take on reigning premier Castlemaine at Bendigo’s Ewing Park.
Sandhurst has a bye on Easter weekend and will then return to the field to play Golden Square on Anzac Day at the Wade Street ground from 7.15pm.
The Demons marked their debut CVFL senior women’s campaign by finishing seventh on a win-loss tally of 2-11 and a draw.
Phil Murley will again be in the charge of the Demons.
A highlight for the club in ’24 was Oakley Turner being selected in the High Street X-ray Team of the Year and the premiership victory by the under-18 girls team.
Several of those players are likely to make their way to open level.
Big test in opening round as White Hills plays at Eaglehawk on April 4 under the Canterbury Park lights.
A bye in round two will be followed by the Easter Sunday match at home against Marong.
The Demons make their way to Bendigo Club Oval in North Bendigo’s Atkins Street to face the Bulldogs on April 27 to complete round four.
Picture by Enzo TomasielloRegional Victoria's largest Holi - Festival of Colour has made a splash at Golden Square Pool
All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinuePeople of all backgrounds arrived on Saturday, March 15 to celebrate the major Hindu festival
Holi marks the northern hemisphere's arrival of spring and includes dancing, singing and throwing paint and coloured water at each other
View +18 PhotosHoli Festival celebrations at the Golden Square Pool
Pictures by Enzo TomasielloMany of the festivalgoers arrived wearing white so that the colours thrown at them would pop
Indian Association of Bendigo secretary Ajay Mishra said the festival showcased Bendigo's diversity by reaching out to new and emerging communities
"Holi demonstrates the strength of our community and that we're a place where everyone can come together," he said
Golden Square Pool president Sam Kane said his group was proud to partner with the Indian Association
"When we saved our pool from closure we envisaged events such as this creating a home in our space."
Picture usppliedAfter over a decade in the Bendigo Premier Pennant wilderness
Golden Square Bowls Club is one step away from returning to the promised land
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueCompeting in its first finals series since 2016-17
Square have come from third to make their first grand final appearance in 11 years
Square's Tom Lester told the Bendigo Advertiser that "it's well overdue this club moves up the ladder."
only one hurdle away from achieving the ultimate
Lester says his side is riding a wave of momentum that saw them sweep aside Bendigo and South Bendigo in the last two weeks
and it's shown in the past fortnight," Lester said
"It's been such an exciting week for the club
and we've had a lot of members come and support us at training throughout the week
so it's obviously a massive couple of days for us
but for every member that's come and gone in the past few years
Tom Lester analyses the situation.While Lester is confident of causing an upset
Square will head into Sunday's clash at Eaglehawk against Moama as firm underdogs
The Steamers are the reigning premiers
have beaten Square twice already this season
and have been undefeated since mid-November
"The wider community thinks we're underdogs
but we're pretty confident with the 16 we've got that we can get the job done," Lester said
Steamers skipper Kevin Anderson is similarly confident but is not taking his buoyant opponents lightly
so we're pretty confident and settled heading into Sunday
albeit against a really good Golden Square team," Anderson said
"We had a stuttering start to the season but didn't have our best team in until round 11
The Steamers progressed through to the decider after beating South Bendigo by 36 shots in the second semi-final
They possess arguably the four best skippers in Bendigo Premier Pennant bowls this season
Steamers star young skipper Cameron Keenan.Anderson
and Matthew Robertson are the top-three rated skippers in the competition
while Alex Marshall is behind only due to playing fewer games but has an excellent 7-1 record
"Alex Marshall walks into any team in the world
but Robbo (Matt Robertson) has been doing a great job
and Cam (Keenan) is a superstar in the making," Anderson said
"We've got a good mix of youth and experience
so we have the balance of our team right."
Melbourne's Ben Fearn will skipper a rink for Square alongside Bryce Young
Moonee Valley duo Dylan Fisher and Alex Skilton are unavailable due to playing in the Queensland Premier League
Square has two father-son duos in their 16
John and Travis Berry and Paul and Lachlan Darroch
While up to 6mm of rain is predicted in Bendigo on Sunday
with the opportunity to reschedule impossible due to the Victorian Open beginning next week
Bryce Young directs his teammates in the preliminary final.TEAMS:MOAMA:
Golden Square's Lachlan Darroch.THIS WEEKEND'S GRAND FINALS:SATURDAY
Division 1 - Strathfieldsaye v Bendigo East at South Bendigo
Division 2 - Bendigo v Eaglehawk at Golden Square
Division 3 - Marong v Heathcote at Bendigo East
Division 4 - Bendigo v White Hills at Golden Square
Division 5 - Strathfieldsaye v Bendigo at South Bendigo
Division 6 - Castlemaine v North Bendigo at Bendigo East
Division 7 - Bendigo East v Strathfieldsaye at South Bendigo
Premier - Moama v Golden Square at Eaglehawk
Picture by Tom O'CallaghanA truck has dragged a car 50 metres down a busy highway before it came to a stop in Bendigo
Senior Constable Chris Bradley said the 23-year-old driver of a prime mover was changing lanes near The Hibernian Hotel and did not see the orange sedan in his blind spot
"The sedan's gone into the front of the truck and been pushed for about 50 metres before coming to a stop," the police officer said
Pubgoers raced out to help get the car off the road and make sure everyone inside was OK
Paramedics were called to the scene to assess people who had been inside the car but Senior Constable Bradley said there were no injuries
Golden Square impresses across all age groups
GOLDEN Square marked impressive performance across all age groups in the weekend’s 10th round of the Bendigo Bank Bendigo Junior Football League season.
The blue and gold was represented by nine teams.
Golden Square won a great match with Kangaroo Flat in the under-15 girls, seniors competition.
A high-scoring first half at Dower Park ended with Golden Square in front, 34-20.
Although it was goalless in the second half, Golden Square worked hard to claim a 39-32 victory on the Kangaroos’ ground.
Goalkickers for Golden Square were Sihanna Carter, two; Annabelle and Charlotte Carr, and Isla Hanley.
Best for the blue and gold were Annabelle Carr, Tahlee Gray, Isla Hanley, Lucy Kofoed, Chelsea Mandersloot and Laylah Walsh.
Golden Square scored a 34-point win against Marong in the under-15 girls, reserves match.
The blue and gold charged to a 28-2 lead by half-time at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street.
Olivia Archer kicked three goals as the home team won 42-8.
Best for Golden Square were Maliha Dean, Matilda Smith, Yakira McKenzie, Olivia Archer and Sienna McCuskey.
Golden Square was on home turf for the under-16 seniors clash with Strathfieldsaye.
It was a brilliant start by Storm as it surged to a 45-2 lead by quarter-time.
Although it faced a 53-point deficit at half-time, Golden Square worked hard to match Storm for most of the second half.
The Bulldogs finished on 7.12 (54) as Storm scored 18.9 (117).
Goalkickers for Golden Square were Ethan Fletcher and Archer Weeks on two; Zachery Hinck, Josh Kelly and Jaxson Smith.
Best for the Bulldogs were Zach Barker, Archer Weeks, Ethan Fletcher, Ryan Brown, Josh Kelly and Billy Buhagiar.
A closely-fought under-14 seniors match between Golden Square and Strathfieldsaye went the way of the Bulldogs by 16 points.
The blue and gold led 49-27 at a quarter to play at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street.
Storm hit back to win the last term, 19-13, but Square led 62-46 at the final siren.
Charlie Macumber kicked three goals for Golden Square as Cooper Pannett and Jake Rosa added two each.
Carter Andrews and Nate Bishop were also on target.
Best for the Bulldogs were Jake Rosa, Tynan Thomas, Aiden Lear, Mac Conway, Jack Allen and Will Donnelly.
Golden Square’s under-14 reserves, division one team travelled to Rochester’s Windridge Oval to tackle the Tigers.
Rochester charged to a 36-15 lead by half-time and went on to claim a 74-15 victory.
Goalkickers for the Bulldogs were Jhak Burke and Zane Shevlin.
Best for Square were Declan Dupille, Levi Mountford, Evan Doye, Archer Brown, Rheef Norman and Jack Norris.
The under-12A team from Golden Square travelled to Marist College Bendigo to take on Maiden Gully YCW Eagles.
Goalkickers for the Bulldogs were Lachlan Baker, Chase Buchan, Angus Pitcher and Thomas Pluck.
Logan Shatwell, Isaiah Berger, Jack Everett, Xavier O’Grady, Jhak Burke and Cooper Smith were Golden Square’s best.
In the under-12 girls competition, Golden Square played St Therese’s at Fur Life Oval.
The Sharks led 29-7 at half-time on their way to a 74-19 victory.
Goalkickers for Golden Square were Preslee Burton, Willow Dellar and Daniella Torossian.
Daisy Kofoed, Abigail Potter, Emily Curnow, Sage Reid, Macie Crocker and Ruby Carter were Golden Square’s best.
The under-12C team marked a 49-7 win against Kangaroo Flat at Fur Life Oval.
Golden Square led 28-nil at half-time and added another three goals after the break.
Issac Taylor led the blue and gold’s attack on three goals as Conor Elliott chipped in with two and Travis Smith and Levi Walsh were on target.
Best for the Bulldogs were Levi Walsh, Issac Taylor, Travis Smith, Patrick Roberts, Digby Snell and Will Harrison.
It was a bye for Golden Square in the under-14 reserves, division three competition.
White Hills 4.6 (30) d Mount Pleasant 4.3 (27), St Francis Blue 6.5 (41) d Marong 0.0 (0), St Therese’s 11.8 (74) d Golden Square 3.1 (19), St Francis Green 25.6 (156) d Kangaroo Flat 0.0 (0), Rochester bye.
St Therese’s 5.9 (39) d St Francis 5.1 (31), South Bendigo 8.9 (57) d Strathfieldsaye 3.5 (23), Maiden Gully YCW 10.5 (65) d Golden Square 4.11 (35), St Kilian’s-St Peter’s bye.
Eaglehawk Eagles 6.11 (47) d Huntly 4.0 (24), White Hills Black 9.7 (61) d St Therese’s 1.2 (8), Maryborough 11.7 (73) d Castlemaine 2.0 (12), Quarry Hill bye.
Maiden Gully YCW 5.10 (40) d Strathfieldsaye 5.5 (35), Eaglehawk Hawks 4.7 (31) d Marong Blue 2.3 (15), Golden Square 7.7 (49) d Kangaroo Flat 1.1 (7).
South Bendigo (3) 4.6 (30) d North Bendigo Blue 4.2 (26), South Bendigo (2) 5.12 (42) d St Francis 3.3 (21), St Monica’s 9.5 (59) d Marong Red 2.2 (14), Mount Pleasant 7.9 (51) d Heathcote 0.2 (2).
Eaglehawk Two Blues 4.10 (34) d Strathfieldsaye 0.1 (1), North Bendigo Red 15.8 (98) d White Hills Red 1.1 (7), Maiden Gully YCW bye.
Golden Square 9.8 (62) d Strathfieldsaye 7.4 (46), Eaglehawk 9.18 (72) d Maiden Gully YCW 2.4 (16), Sandhurst 26.10 (166) d South Bendigo 3.4 (22).
White Hills 10.5 (65) d Strathfieldsaye 3.3 (21), Kangaroo Flat 11.9 (75) d Castlemaine 3.6 (24), Rochester 10.14 (74) d Golden Square 2.3 (15).
Marong 7.13 (55) d Maiden Gully YCW 3.6 (24), Sandhurst 11.12 (78) d South Bendigo 1.1 (7), Maryborough 14.12 (96) d Huntly 2.3 (15).
White Hills 8.9 (57) d Kangaroo Flat 4.10 (34), Heathcote 11.14 (80) d Eaglehawk 5.6 (36), North Bendigo 12.9 (81) d Strathfieldsaye 4.11 (35), Golden Square bye.
Golden Square 5.9 (39) d Kangaroo Flat 5.2 (32), Sandhurst 4.3 (27) d Strathfieldsaye 2.5 (17), White Hills 9.11 (65) d Marong 1.3 (9), Eaglehawk bye.
Kangaroo Flat 6.5 (41) d Sandhurst 5.3 (33), Golden Square 6.6 (42) d Marong 1.2 (8), Strathfieldsaye 9.7 (61) d Eaglehawk 1.0 (6).
Maiden Gully YCW 7.11 (53) d Maryborough 7.8 (50), Sandhurst 8.13 (61) d South Bendigo 7.10 (52), Strathfieldsaye 18.9 (117) d Golden Square 7.12 (54).
Huntly 12.10 (82) d White Hills 10.7 (67), Strathfieldsaye 21.6 (132) d Lockington Bamawm United Cats 7.4 (46), Castlemaine bye.
Sandhurst 9.9 (63) d Golden Square 6.13 (49),
Kangaroo Flat 10.4 (64) d Maiden Gully YCW 3.5 (23).
St Therese’s 100 per cent match ratio, 36 points; St Francis Blue 88, 32; White Hills 77, 28; Mount Pleasant 55, 20; Golden Square 44, 16; Marong 33, 12; Rochester 25, 8; St Francis Green 22, 8; Kangaroo Flat 0, 0.
St Francis 90 per cent match ratio, 36 points; St Therese’s 88, 32; Maiden Gully YCW 77, 28; South Bendigo 55, 20; St Kilian’s-St Peter’s 44, 16; Strathfieldsaye 22, 8; Golden Square 11, 4.
White Hills Black 72 per cent match ratio, Eaglehawk Eagles 70, Huntly 61, Maryborough 55, Quarry Hill 44, Castlemaine 44, St Therese’s 12.
Golden Square 32 points, Maiden Gully YCW 24, Strathfieldsaye 20, Eaglehawk Hawks 20, Marong Blue 10, Kangaroo Flat 6.
South Bendigo (3) 52 points, St Monica’s 44, South Bendigo (2) 44, Mount Pleasant 40, St Francis 32, North Bendigo Blue 32, Marong Red 28, Heathcote 16.
North Bendigo Red 68 per cent match ratio, Maiden Gully YCW 68, Strathfieldsaye 44, Eaglehawk Two Blues 37, White Hills Red 0.
Sandhurst 36 points, Golden Square 36, Strathfieldsaye 28, Eaglehawk 20, South Bendigo 8, Maiden Gully YCW 8.
White Hills 28 points, Rochester 28, Kangaroo Flat 28, Castlemaine 20, Strathfieldsaye 12, Golden Square 8.
Maryborough 32 points, Marong 22, Huntly 22, Maiden Gully YCW 16, South Bendigo 12, Sandhurst 8.
Golden Square 75 per cent match ratio, White Hills 66, Strathfieldsaye 57, North Bendigo 50, Heathcote 44, Kangaroo Flat 11, Eaglehawk 11.
Sandhurst 100 per cent match ratio, 32 points; Strathfieldsaye 75, 24; White Hills 55, 20; Golden Square 55, 20; Eaglehawk 37, 12; Marong 33, 12; Kangaroo Flat 11, 4.
Kangaroo Flat 32 points, Sandhurst 32, Strathfieldsaye 28, Golden Square 16, Eaglehawk 8, Marong 0.
Sandhurst 95 per cent match ratio, Strathfieldsaye 66, South Bendigo 61, Maiden Gully YCW 40, Maryborough 40, Golden Square 20.
Castlemaine 87 per cent match ratio, Huntly 66, Strathfieldsaye 44, Lockington Bamawm United Cats 44, White Hills 33.
Rochester 80 per cent match ratio, Maiden Gully YCW 60, Sandhurst 60, Marong 50, Kangaroo Flat 44, South Bendigo 40, Golden Square 20, Huntly 0.
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe Storm were down to 18 fit men by midway through the second quarter and went into half-time trailing the Dogs by nine points
Everything pointed to a Golden Square victory
Kicking with the wind in the third quarter they added 6.6 to 2.0 to turn a nine-point deficit into a 21-point lead
The question was would 21 points be enough to hold off a Square side that had the breeze and fresh legs
The gutsy Storm defended stoutly and their midfielders
despite some of them spending the entire second-half on the ground
The margin was still 21 points entering time-on in the final quarter before Square kicked the final two goals of the game
The 10.18 (78) to 10.10 (70) result saw the Storm advance to a preliminary final clash with Sandhurst
while Square's season ended in disappointing fashion
but in terms of what we had left to run out there
that was an incredible win,'' Storm coach Luke Freeman said
"It's hard to make the finals and then they're even harder to win
The message at half-time was there's going to be times in the second-half where your body says 'no'
but your mind is going to have to say 'yes'
"The bottom line was it came down to do we want to play again next week
"We put a lot of acid on our midfielders each week to lead from the front and set us up
For them to keep going on pure will in the second-half today was an enormous effort."
View +48 PhotosStrathfieldsaye v Golden Square
Pictures by Darren HoweThe Storm lost Charlie King and Darcy Mulquiny to game-ending injuries inside the first half
while Shannon Geary and Jaidi Jackson-Leahy played on bravely despite being injured
Veteran Geary had his left hamstring heavily strapped and he played deep in the forward line
so that his team-mates could get short breaks on the bench
In the third quarter he used his footy smarts to find space and took an uncontested mark 20m out
Much to the delight of the Storm players and fans
Geary kicked truly to extend his side's lead
If it was Geary's last game of senior footy with the Storm
the performance encapsulated his stellar BFNL career
Golden Square's Ricky Monti handballs in between Storm duo Bode Stevens and Shannon Murphy
Picture by Darren HoweBode Stevens was inspiring
Daniel Clohesy's work rate was astronomical
forward Zach Charles didn't touch the ball a lot
but his contested mark and goal against the wind in the final quarter was one of those moments that defines finals
Cooper Jones and Mitch Hallinan under immense pressure took four intercept marks between them
Riley Wilson and Matt Harvey played critical roles in the middle and inside forward 50 and key position players Malik Gordon and Caleb Ernst stood up for the Storm in crucial moments in the second half
Ernst also spent some time on the wing in the third quarter surge
they were left to lament a missed opportunity on Sunday
the Dogs had the game at their mercy at half-time
Jordan Rosengren kicked four goals for the Bulldogs
Picture by Darren HoweMaybe that was their biggest problem - they thought they'd done enough considering the Storm had so many injury concerns
When the Storm lifted their intensity in the third quarter the stunned Dogs faltered
They had enough of the ball in the final quarter to make a run
but their ball use and system going forward was poor
When Tom Toma and Jordan Rosengren (four goals) got their hands on the footy the Dogs looked dangerous
but ultimately Square had no answer to the Storm's fighting spirit
Strathfieldsaye wanted it more than Golden Square
Finalist: Larnangurrak in Golden Square has earnt its architect a shortlisting in the 2025 Victorian Architecture Awards. Photos: SUPPLIED
DEVELOPMENTS in Golden Square and Castlemaine have earnt their architects a shortlisting in two different categories in the 2025 Victorian Architecture Awards.
Y2 Architecture has been nominated in the Commercial Architecture, Sustainable Architecture category for its work on Larnangurrak (Our Place) – Dja Dja Wurrung Corporate and Community Centre in Golden Square, and CROSBY Architects has been shortlisted for the award in the Regional Prize, Residential Architecture – Multiple Housing, Sustainable Architecture category for The Paddock in Castlemaine.
The awards will be presented at a dinner at the Pullman Albert Park on 27 June, with winners going on to compete in the National Architecture Awards, announced in November.
Run annually by the Victorian chapter of the Australian Institute of Architects, the awards celebrate the best architecture from around the state and collectively showcase the positive impacts of architects in shaping the built landscape.
“This year’s awards program continues to illustrate the contribution architects make, from local community facilities and the adaptive reuse of existing buildings to the larger footprint of city-shaping infrastructure projects,” chair of judges Hamish Lyon said.
“Against the backdrop of climate change, economic uncertainties and the need for greater access to housing, it is encouraging to see the significant role that many of this year’s entrants are making to address these contemporary challenges.”
The Larnangurrak development is up against five other category finalists and The Paddock 10 others.
According to the institute, Victoria attracted the largest number of entries of any Australian state, and a total of 384 submissions across 25 categories.
An exhibition of entries drawn from this year’s submissions can be viewed at Deakin University at Burwood, which opened on 7 April.
GOLDEN Square residents are encouraged to have their say at a community meet-up at the Golden Square Hotel on Wednesday 24 July as part of a campaign overseen by the Golden Square Action Group and Make a Change Australia.
The campaign – Activating Golden Square – invites local stakeholders to voice their ideas on the future of the historic suburb.
The action group’s Mark Pirie said he’s “thrilled” to see the initiative come alive.
“It’s a chance to celebrate what makes Golden Square special and to collaborate on new ideas that can enhance our community,” he said.
“I hope the gathering will spark innovative projects and strengthen the bonds between residents and local organisations.”
Karen Corr, founder of Make a Change, which supports and engages individuals and communities to create positive change, said this is a “wonderful opportunity” for residents of Golden Square to come together, share their stories, and envision a brighter future for the suburb.
“By participating, you contribute to creating a more connected, vibrant, and resilient community. Your voice matters, and we want to hear from as many people as possible,” she said.
Activating Golden Square is funded by the City of Greater Bendigo and its long-term goals include improving amenities and services, fostering collaboration, and creating a more inclusive and resilient community.
The project also aims to gauge interest in the establishment of a Golden Square festival.
The get-together takes place on Wednesday 24 July between 5.30pm and 7pm at the Golden Square Hotel in High Street.
Picture by Enzo TomasielloGOLDEN Square's BFNL premiership defence is still alive
while Eaglehawk's season is over following Sunday's elimination final at the QEO
All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe Bulldogs advanced to a first semi-final clash with Strathfieldsaye after defeating the Hawks by 31 points
Golden Square had just one more scoring shot than Eaglehawk
but the Bulldogs made more of their opportunities inside 50
Eaglehawk's cause wasn't helped either by having to play the bulk of the third term with just 17 on the field with Clayton Holmes yellow carded for abusive language towards an umpire as he left the field with blood pouring from a nasty head gash
The Hawks hit the post four times in the second half
including Tom Bennett twice in the last term
while early in the game they didn't make enough of their opportunities to the city end with the breeze in the first quarter
Ruckman Kai Daniels was named Golden Square's best player on Sunday
Picture by Enzo TomasielloEaglehawk had the majority of play in the first term but could register just 2.4
with its goals kicked by Jonty Neaves and Bennett
But with their opportunity with the breeze in the second quarter the Bulldogs booted four goals and when Tom Strauch put them in front at the 12-minute mark they wouldn't surrender the lead for the rest of the match
The only goal of the first half at the Barnard Street end was kicked by star Hawks' midfielder Billy Evans at the 28-minute mark of the second term
which brought Eaglehawk back within seven points after the Bulldogs had skipped out to a 13-point lead
the Bulldogs kicking against the breeze narrowly outscored the Hawks 2.1 to 1.5 in the third quarter and the game looked done and dusted 16 minutes into the final term when Golden Square's Jordan Rosengren kicked the goal of the day from deep in the pocket out of a stoppage
Golden Square's Macey Eaton and Eaglehawk's Sam Thompson
Picture by Enzo TomasielloAt that stage Golden Square led by 28 points
but the Hawks didn't surrender and successive goals to Kyen Burrill-Grinton and ruckman Brayden Frost
who played the role of rover with a crumbing goal
gave Eaglehawk a sniff with the margin back to 16 points
the Bulldogs closed the game out with the final three goals - one of those from Dylan Hird who 12 months earlier had been part of Eaglehawk's elimination final win over South Bendigo
Picture by Enzo Tomasiello"The (windy) conditions all weekend throw a bit of a curve ball in terms of the different planning and structures that you may not have had to deal with all year and then with a lot of young guys playing their first senior final
so you have to make sure you play your role," Golden Square coach Brad Eaton said
"It was always going to be a game that was physical and with a lot of pressure and Eaglehawk certainly tackled and chased and brought the heat
"It was a contested game for most of the day and we just had to dig in and understand that it wasn't going to be free flowing and find ways to score and work out way through it
"It was encouraging to do that and finish the game off well."
Among the Golden Square players lining up in their first senior final was ruckman Kai Daniels
who was named the Bulldogs' best in what was a great ruck battle between he and the Hawks' Brayden Frost
who returned to the side from a hamstring injury
"I thought a lot of Kai's follow-up work in particular was great," Eaton said
"Frost is a very crafty ruckman and is a good contested mark around the ground
but I thought Kai's second efforts around the ground and his groundballs and work at stoppages created opportunities for our mids
which was important because they have got really good inside mids as well
"Tommy Strauch (two goals) was good all day
Terry Reeves' second quarter in particular was huge and helped to stem the flow and get us in the game
"Lachlan Humphrey's second and fourth quarters were both really good
but super fit and we know he can run the game out and he was one of our better players as well."
Strauch and Tom Toma each kicked two goals apiece for the the Bulldogs
The Hawks were always going to be up against it at three quarter-time trailing the Bulldogs by nine points and kicking against the breeze
They had their opportunities during the third term to be in front at three quarter-time
but their 1.5 let the Bulldogs off the hook
Picture by Enzo TomasielloOne of the Hawks' five behinds for the term was a set-shot from 15m out by Darcy Richards on a slight angle that missed
he got his chance for redemption a minute later and this time capitalised from 20m straight in front after receiving a free kick
There was also a shot from 55m out from their best player Evans that slammed into the post late in the term
while Bennett marked a pass from Evans a second after the siren sounded that would have seen him from 40m have the chance to close the margin to three points at three quarter-time
Picture by Enzo Tomasiello"Instead of going into three quarter-time with a couple of goal lead from being able to utilise the wind and being able to play a spare behind the ball like we did in the second quarter (Jonty Neaves) we had to go head-to-head in the last," Eaglehawk coach Travis Matheson said
"It was always going to be hard against the breeze in that last quarter not being able to play someone behind the ball
I thought they battled it out until deep in the game."
The Eaglehawk side featured three players still eligible to play in the club's under-18s - Burrill-Grinton
Deacon Marsh and Jack O'Shannessy - while they were down a rotation from early in the final term after defender Bryce Frost injured his ankle on top of the earlier Holmes yellow card
Eaglehawk forward Darcy Richards is pressured
Picture by Enzo Tomasiello"It probably feels a bit of a mirror image of last season where it got to round seven and eight and we were playing some really good footy
but then it just fizzled out," Matheson said
"It's seven months until we play again and the challenge to the boys is to strive to make the most of the opportunity they've got
so it's about trying to make sure we cash in on that opportunity next year."
The Hawks have announced Matheson and Holmes will be co-coaches next season
Golden Square defeated Eaglehawk by 31 points
Picture by Enzo TomasielloEarlier in the day Strathfieldsaye defeated Eaglehawk by 16 points in the reserves elimination final
And representing the club for the first time in a BFNL football final in 14 years
Castlemaine won the under-18 elimination final against Kangaroo Flat by eight points
the Magpies' win was sealed by a stunning goal from Jack Nuttall
whose kick from the grandstand wing somehow managed to land inside 50
evade being touched and bounce through the city end goals
and that reputation looks certain to grow following Saturday's 17-and-under grand final
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueMinor premiers Sandhurst will do battle with Golden Square in a replay of their second semi-final clash a fortnight ago
It was the Dragons that prevailed in that one
The Bulldogs were able to rebound strongly
setting up another showdown with the Dragons by beating Strathfieldsaye 56-37 in last weekend's preliminary final
Golden Square is not without a win this season over Sandhurst
The Bulldogs inflicted the Dragons' first and only loss of the season in round 15 with a 49-47 victory
That win contributed to a run of 11 consecutive wins for the Bulldogs
snapped only by their semi-final defeat to the Dragons
Sandhurst's Carol Cathcart knows only too well that anything can
"You always want to play your best netball on grand final day
and then the result looks after itself," she said
"You have to play your best netball when it matters."
who was at the helm for last year's one-goal grand final loss to Gisborne
hoped the Dragons' semi-final performance was an indication they were indeed peaking
"I was very happy with how we played a couple of weeks ago
I thought our approach to the game and the way we went about was really good," she said
"But we will need to do that again this weekend
Picture courtesy of Steve Dilks/SAA Imaging"Grand finals don't just happen
you have to follow the process and make sure you have covered everything off to make sure you are in the best position to perform at your best at the right time
so hopefully that translates to a great game and some quality netball
"We have some really great young talent in our area at the moment and it will be on display on grand final day."
The Dragons will have six of last year's grand final players in their line-up on Saturday
While it was disappointing to come up short against Gisborne in a thriller
with some fresh blood in the ranks and a different opponent
redemption has not been a key theme for the Dragons
you have to play the game and the opposing team on their merits," she said
"What happened last year - it really did happen last year
it certainly doesn't mean it's your turn."
We have some really great young talent in our area at the moment and it will be on display on grand final day
The Dragons will be chasing their first 17-and-under flag since 2019, which was the third in a three-peat and won against Golden Square
Key players for the Dragons will be 19-and-under state squad members Claire McGee and Harriett Whiteacre and midcourters Neve Pinner and Jaida Raco
Pinner was the runner-up for the second consecutive year behind Maryborough's Ella Patten in the league's Carol Sing Medal best and fairest count
Golden Square's Abbi Wells Picture courtesy of Steve Dilks/SAA ImagingGolden Square coach Clare Hope was thrilled to have earned another crack at Sandhurst following an ultra-pleasing preliminary final performance against Strathfieldsaye
the 19-goal margin was the Bulldogs' biggest over the Storm this season
"Hopefully we can level things at two-all against Sandhurst
"The number one thing we need to do is play consistently
We had a very consistent four quarters on the weekend
but that is harder to do against a classy opposition like Sandhurst
"But I definitely think we have the skill-set among the girls
"We have got a beautiful team and they have come together really well."
Hope said her and assistant coach Kath Basilewsky were quick to identify where things went wrong against the Dragons on semi-final day
"I think last time we were still finding our feet after losing a midcourter to injury," she said of her daughter Lilly
So our midcourt was an area where we struggled
"We've had another final to settle ourselves a bit more
Picture courtesy of Steve Dilks/SAA Imaging "They are just so classy across the court
so we went back to basics and started playing our game against the Storm
"They (Sandhurst) have set the bar pretty high
so we have worked hard this season to get to their standard
The Bulldogs also had one of their goalers ill last time against Sandhurst
A finals series that will end at least one step higher for the Bulldogs
dominant goal shooter Natalie Flood and mature defender Abbi Wells
Wells was the Bulldogs' second highest vote scorer in this year's league count with 14
Both Flood and Wells have appeared in the senior grades this season and acquitted themselves nicely
17-and-under teams - Sandhurst v Golden Square (9am)
when one door closes another one opens and it somewhat describes the Golden Square centre square make-up in the BFNL this year
who did only play six games for Golden Square last year
and Monti were two of the elite midfielders in the competition with the added string to their bow of kicking goals
while the emergence of Daniels throughout the year as an athletic ruckman in his return season to football was one of the silver linings of Golden Square's 2024 to the extent that has been training in recent weeks with Richmond's VFL team
Despite the loss of some of their top-end talent - which also includes half-back Jack Threlfall - coach Brad Eaton believes the Bulldogs will still bat deep through the middle of the ground this season
that's the first acknowledgement," Eaton said this week
"At the same time most coaches probably have the same conversations with a lot of their guys in their end of year reviews and pre-season planning around where you want to play and 15 blokes likely put their hand up and say they want to play midfield
"With that comes opportunity and we had some growth from younger guys through last year
"Jordan Rosengren won our best and fairest and spent most of his time through the middle and Tommy Strauch is one who we're looking at perhaps modifying his role through the middle
"Last year Tommy was part of the midfield rotation and having that type of player who is six-foot four and a top runner; he has done a lot of work in the off-season and the past two years around parts of his game to become that A grade mid
"We've seen the results of that in our intra-clubs and match sim this pre-season
so I'm expecting him to have a bigger role."
Golden Square's Tom Strauch.Eaton is also buoyed by the hard-at-it Terry Reeves heading into 2025 off the back of a full pre-season
which cost him the chance to be part of the Bulldogs' premiership
Reeves made his return in the second half of last season
playing the Bulldogs' last eight games and featuring in their best players in their two finals against Eaglehawk and Strathfieldsaye
"I think the other one people forget about is Terry Reeves after coming back from his ACL during last year," Eaton said
where he had some big moments and played some great footy
so getting him back with a full pre-season adds a bit more experience
Midfielder Terry Reeves returned from an ACL injury in the second half of last season for Golden Square
Picture by Darren Howe"Macey (Eaton) had a year where he did some really good things; his first possession work was great and he was one of the best clearance players across the league in all the metrics (eight games with at least 10 clearances
including 21 against Eaglehawk in round eight)
"He's working on some facets of his game where he is getting into better running patterns to be one of those midfielders who can get on the end of a couple rather than just being a first possession winner
"Jack McMahon has done a VFL pre-season with Carlton and after having some injuries last year has already shown that he could can come straight in and have an impact
Brad Eaton is heading into his second season as coach of Golden Square in the BFNL this year
Picture by Enzo Tomasiello"Carson James coming across from Strath has played some good footy around the ball for the Storm; he's got a lot of talent and is really good through traffic
"Zac Wescott is a player who played a lot of half-forward last year and is just miles ahead in terms of his preparation and fitness going into this year
applies good pressure and has good leg speed
"He played that high half-forward role really well for us
but he's chomping at the bit to win some midfield minutes
is an elite runner and another one who is really good through traffic
"Ollie Eaton spent some time in the midfield in the under-18s last year
"And Jake Maher has come in as a new player and is very good with his aggression and competitiveness around the footy
He has a great defensive mindset around the footy
"I think we have a lot of moving parts to our midfield group; it's just about finding that balance and making sure we can still compete with the best clearance teams in the competition and make sure we're still developing guys in other areas."
Golden Square's 2024 season snapshots.Much like the "moving parts" of the midfield rotation
just how the rucking duties are split is still to be bedded down
but there are multiple options for Eaton to consider
"In terms of the ruck it's going to be hard because Kai showed a lot
particularly later in the year when he realised his potential and grew in confidence in his ability to compete and use his strengths," Eaton said
but at the same time we had young Rory McRann-Peters last year get some exposure to senior footy
He's a player who is still working through his body and his craft
"Daniel Keating has come back to the club after having five or so years off
but he has been back from the start of pre-season and going really well
although he did hurt his hamstring the other week
"He showed a lot of potential when he was rucking for the Bendigo Pioneers
He found it a bit difficult at the start of pre-season after having the time away that he did
but he has definitely impressed the boys with his training and intensity
Golden Square's Tanner Rayner."Plus Hugh Freckleton and Tanner Rayner have spent time in the ruck in senior footy across the past couple of years as well
"It's going to be using the next six weeks to finalise the mix and make sure we're still one of the best clearance sides in the competition."
Golden Square plays the first of its three practice matches against Kyabram at Elmore on March 15
Round one for the Bulldogs is at home against Eaglehawk on April 12
Picture by Brodie EveristA Golden Square man has been substantially fined for assaulting a nightclub worker and saying he would throw a beer can at a police officer
All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe man faced the Bendigo Magistrates' Court on February 13
pleading guilty to threatening to assault an emergency worker
behaving in a disorderly manner in a public place and unlawful assault
the man was drinking at the Piano Bar on Hargreaves Street with his older brother and another associate when they were asked to leave by staff
The group became argumentative and threatened the bar manager
The man placed his hand on the manager's neck and pulled the staff member towards him
the brother said he would make the manager "a paraplegic"
The three men were at the same venue on September 8
where they were asked to leave by staff due to "being disruptive and abusive"
The court heard the man approached a patron and held up his middle finger in the patron's face for a lengthy period
police attended the man and his brother's Golden Square home to execute a safe custody warrant for a female believed to be at the address
the two brothers were aggressive to police and made menacing threats
The man threatened to throw a can of beer at an officer
The court heard the brother released a dog to attack the police.
Duty lawyer Karin Temperley asked that her client face a fine or a good behaviour bond, noting he had committed no offences in the 18 months since the incidents.
She said the offending occurred in the context of alcohol and his brother, but he had cut back on drinking and his brother had also "pulled his head in".
"Really it's [the brother] that kicks things off," she said.
She also noted that her client had been engaging with bail support services, albeit "sporadically".
The court heard the man had an intellectual disability.
In summarising the offending, Magistrate Trieu Huhyn said police and members of the public should not be subject to abuse.
"Hopefully [he] understands that these are just people going about their job," he said.
Regarding the disorderly conduct at the Piano Bar, the magistrate said the man was "behaving like an absolute pork chop".
He was ordered to pay a fine of $2500 and received a conviction.
Golden Square marks best victory of season
GOLDEN Square showed it will be a danger at senior footy finals time as it upset Sandhurst in Saturday’s 15th round in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL season.
It was a completely different looking Golden Square team which returned to Queen Elizabeth Oval for the first time since last September’s grand final win against Sandhurst.
The Brad Eaton-coached Bulldogs started well to lead 27-25 at quarter-time.
In the second it was the Dragons who took control and scored 4.2 as it kept the blue and gold to a tally of 1.3.
Quarter three was dominated by Golden Square.
Square’s dominance at stoppages was a highlight and the attack capitalised on many scoring chances.
As the Dogs slammed on six goals the Dragons added just one.
It was a remarkable turnaround as the Bulldogs turned a 15-point deficit at half-time into a 13-point lead going into the final term.
As the Bulldogs added 2.4 in the last the defence worked hard to hold the Dragons to a goal.
After playing a midfield or on-ball role for most of the season, Jordan Rosengren led Golden Square’s attack on four goals in an 89-68 victory.
Other multiple goalkickers for the Bulldogs were co-captain Tom Toma on three and Zac Wescott with two.
The Dragons’ attack was led by Cobi Maxted and Nick Stagg on two.
High-leaping and athletic ruckman/forward Kai Daniels continued his great form to be best on ground for Golden Square.
Others to star for the Bulldogs were Harrison Burke in defence, Tom Toma, Tom Strauch, Hugh Freckleton and Jordan Rosengren.
Best for the Ash Connick and Bryce Curnow-coached Sandhurst were Caleb Connick, Lachlan Tardrew, Jack Keating, Darcy Mills, Matt Wilkinson and Jake McLean.
A seven-goal blitz in the first quarter set up Gisborne’s victory against Eaglehawk at Gisborne’s Gardiner Reserve.
The Rob Waters-coached Gisborne charged to a 47-14 lead by quarter-time.
The Bulldogs won the next two terms, 21-9 and 33-19.
Eaglehawk fought on to outscore Gisborne in the last, 32-25.
At the final siren Gisborne led 126-74 and in the process jumped to top of the ladder following Sandhurst’s defeat to Golden Square.
In-form forward Harry Luxmoore kicked four goals for Gisborne as Pat McKenna added three.
Other multiple goalkickers for the red, white and blue were Braidon Blake, James Gray and Matt Merrett on two.
Eaglehawk’s attack was led by Kyen Burrill-Grinton, Joel Mullen, Jack O’Shannessy and Darcy Richards with two each.
Best for Gisborne were Flynn Lakey, Harry Luxmoore, Jackson Cardillo, Zac Vescovi, Pat McKenna and Brad Bernacki.
Billy Evans, Joel Mullen, Kyen Burrill-Grinton, Jack O’Shannessy, Cam McGlashan and Brayden Frost were best for the Travis Matheson-coached Hawks.
Strathfieldsaye scored a 15-goal win on Kangaroo Flat’s ground at Dower Park.
After consecutive defeats the Luke Freeman-coached Storm made a flying start to this contest.
Storm surged to a 44-9 lead by quarter-time.
Strathfieldsaye’s run did not let up as it scored 5.4 to 1.3 in the second.
The classy Copper Jones finished with a match-high five goals as Storm kicked away for a 141-50 victory.
Other multiple goalkickers for Strathfieldsaye were Riley Mulquiny and Riley Wilson, three; Hugh Behrens and Tim Hosking, two.
The Roos’ attack was led by Harry Whitty on four.
Best for Strathfieldsaye were Lachlan Gill, Daniel Clohesy, Cooper Jones, Shannon Geary, Tim Hosking and Ethan Featherby.
Lachlan Dalziel, Campbell Smith, Luke Ellings, Dion Symons, Jake Hywood and Corey Ash played well for the Michael Ellings-coached Kangaroos.
Just as they had done earlier in the season, Brock Harvey and Steven Stroobants dominated in South Bendigo’s attack against Maryborough.
Harvey kicked 12 goals and Stroobants booted 10 as the Bloods surged to a 203-48 victory on Maryborough’s turf at Princes Park.
The Bloods led 38-8 at quarter-time and then scored 9.3 to 2.2 in the second.
Nine goals in the third were followed by eight goals in the last.
Although it was Harvey and Stroobants who capped off most moves, South Bendigo also had Aidan Avery chip in with three goals as Matt McNaughton kicked two.
Austin Long booted two goals for Maryborough.
Best for the Bloods were Brody Haddow, Cody Brooks, Darcy Backway, Anthony Zimmerman, Steven Stroobants and Brock Harvey.
Joel Swatton, co-coach Coby Perry, Seb Collins, Alex Brown, Beau Trahar and Kya Lanfranchi were best for a Maryborough team which has Matt Johnston as co-coach.
Gisborne 223 per cent, 48 points; Sandhurst 306, 44; Strathfieldsaye 155, 36; Golden Square 133, 32; Eaglehawk 142, 28; Castlemaine 106, 24; South Bendigo 71, 16; Kangaroo Flat 56, 12; Maryborough 15, 0.
In next Saturday’s round 16 action, Strathfieldsaye takes on Gisborne at Triple M Park in Strathfieldsaye’s Tannery Lane.
Castlemaine’s line-up will be bolstered by the inclusion of St Kilda great Leigh ‘Joey’ Montagna through the Carlton Draft as the Magpies take on Kangaroo Flat at Camp Reserve.
Eaglehawk tackles Sandhurst on the Borough’s turf at Canterbury Park.
The in-form Golden Square will play Maryborough at Fur Life Oval in Golden Square’s Wade Street.
Leaders in the goalkicking race for the Ron Best Medal:
Open space: Backhaus Oval in Golden Square has been bought by the City of Greater Bendigo. Image: GOOGLE EARTH
JUNIOR sport will be the big winner from a City of Greater Bendigo move to buy an oval in Golden Square.
The City announced last week that it had bought Backhaus Oval from the Diocese of Sandhurst. It did not reveal the purchase price.
The City plans to use the oval to support the future provision of active open space, describing it as a strategic piece of land.
CEO Andrew Cooney said the City would bring the oval and facilities up to a standard suitable for community sport.
“This is an important parcel of land that is considered in adopted strategies as an ideal site to provide more open space in Golden Square, particularly to support junior sport,” Mr Cooney said.
Backhaus Oval was identified in the 2020 Golden Square Recreation Reserve Master Plan and the 2022 Golden Square Structure Plan as an ideal site to address the suburb’s undersupply of public open space.
“This investment will help to address the current overuse of Golden Square Recreation Reserve (Wade Street) by spreading the load for junior and senior football training and games, support the growth in women’s participation and support forecast population growth in the local area,” Mr Cooney said.
“Backhaus Oval is also ideally located, with links to the Bendigo Creek Trail walking and cycling corridor, which will soon include the Bendigo Low Line connection, and the site is already an existing recreation facility and appropriately zoned for community sport.
“The City’s immediate priority will be make-good works to ensure structures on the site are safe.
“An upgrade program will be prepared to guide staged future investment.”
The Wade Street oval is home to the Golden Square Football Netball Club, which has been advocating for a second oval to cater for demand on its facility during winter months.
The club has indicated interest in using the upgraded Backhaus Oval.
Strathfieldsaye fights on to end Golden Square’s run
STRATHFIELDSAYE Storm showed plenty of fighting spirit to win the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL’s senior footy first semi-final against Golden Square on Sunday.
Storm and the Bulldogs were in a clash to keep their premiership dream alive on Queen Elizabeth Oval.
After Storm surged to a 25-9 lead by quarter-time it was the Bulldogs who capitalised on the breeze in the second to score 4.3 as Strathfieldsaye added just two behinds.
Storm looked to be in all sorts after injuries put Charlie King and Darcy Mulquiny out of the game in the second quarter.
Despite injuring his hamstring, Shannon Geary switched from defence to play deep in the forward 50m arc to ensure Storm had some rotations off the bench in the second quarter.
Talented youngster Jaidi Jackson-Leahy also played on through injury.
Their efforts inspired team-mates as the Luke Freeman-coached Strathfieldsaye won the third quarter, 42-12.
Playing into the breeze and limited by just 18 fully-fit players raised concerns for some in the Storm camp.
Led by the play of Bode Stevens, Daniel Clohesy and Riley Wilson, Strathfieldsaye scored 1.3 in the last and more importantly kept the Brad Eaton-coached Bulldogs to a score of 3.4.
At the final siren Strathfieldsaye celebrated a 78-70 victory in one of the club’s most memorable finals matches.
Best for Golden Square were Jordan Rosengren, Tom Toma, Terence Reeves and Jack Threlfall.
Strathfieldsaye’s next target is Sandhurst in Saturday’s preliminary final.
The Dragons were outplayed for a lot of the second semi-final showdown with Gisborne.
At one stage the Rob Waters-coached Bulldogs had gained a 38-point lead against the Dragons.
Although Sandhurst won the last term, 28-13, it was Gisborne which was first to qualify for the September 21 grand final as it claimed an 89-66 victory.
The Bulldogs are in the box seat to claim the Bendigo Advertiser premiership cup.
Zac Denany led the Bulldogs’ attack on three goals as Brad Bernacki and Matt Merrett added two each.
Sandhurst’s leading goalkickers were Fergus Greene and Cobi Maxted on two.
Gun on-baller Flynn Lakey was best afield for Gisborne as Zach Vescovi, Brad Bernacki and Macklan Lord won plenty of contests.
Best for Sandhurst were Lachlan Tardrew, Cooper Smith, Harrison Free and Noah Walsh.
After finishing the home-and-away series on top of the ladder the Ash Connick and Bryce Curnow-coached Dragons now have plenty of work to do to gain another crack at Gisborne.
There will be at least one change to Gisborne’s team for the grand final after Shane Clough sustained a season-ending broken jaw.
In the reserves competition, Strathfieldsaye won the first semi-final against Golden Square by 25 points to set up a preliminary final showdown with Gisborne.
The Sandhurst Dragons fired up for an eight-point win against the Bulldogs in the second semi-final as Wil Pinniger, Darcy Mills, Rory Ellett and Brodie Montague were best.
Sandhurst is first to the SporstPower under-18s grand final after a two-point victory against Golden Square in the second semi-final.
The Jarrod Bateson-coached Dragons led 25-13 at half-time, but the Bulldogs bit back to win the third term, 16-7.
The final quarter went Square’s way, 2-1, but the Dragons led 33-31 at the final siren.
Oscar Cail kicked three goals for Sandhurst as Jaxon Howard, Will Bassett and Charles Duke were best.
The Bulldogs’ attack was led by James Wilkinson with two goals as Oliver Eaton, Lincoln McKern, Riley Dillon and Jack McMahon.
It’s an all-Bulldogs clash in the preliminary final after Gisborne won Sunday’s first semi-final against Castlemaine by 15 points.
Bendigo FNL footy first semi-finals scoreboard:
GOALS – Strathfieldsaye: Lachlan Gill, Matt Harvey 2, Zach Charles, Daniel Clohesy, Shannon Geary, Malik Gordon, Shannon Murphy, Riley Wilson. Golden Square: Jordan Rosengren 4, Jack Stewart, Tom Toma 2, Jayden Burke, Hugh Freckleton.
BEST – Strathfieldsaye: Bode Stevens, Daniel Clohesy, Riley Wilson, Matt Harvey, Malik Gordon, Lachlan Ratcliffe. Golden Square: Jordan Rosengren, Tom Toma, Terence Reeves, Jack Threlfall, Jon Coe, Dylan Hird.
GOALS – Strathfieldsaye: Siologa Siu, Jye Stephens 2, Hugh Behrens, Ned Hayes, Carson James. Golden Square: Paul Symons 3, Lachlan Monti.
BEST – Strathfieldsaye: Ned Hayes, Carson James, Dermott Bell, Hugh Behrens, Charles Dole, Charlie Morrison. Golden Square: Lachlan Monti, Rory McCrann-Peters, Zac Tickell, Bailey Rackstraw, Dean Norris, Noah Warfe.
GOALS – Gisborne: Harrison Bryant, Wilhem Mackay 2, James Bullen, Lucas Hannon, Campbell Johns, Diesel Lewis, Jack Rutten. Castlemaine: Chaz Holman 3, Jackson Balcombe, Kyan Martin, Mitchell McKnight, Jack Nuttall.
BEST – Gisborne: Campbell Johns, Jacob Floreani, Baden Dickins, Thomas Dawson, Diesel Lewis. Castlemaine: Thomas Ford, Archie Rixon, Chaz Holman, Mitchell McKnight, Alton Bracken, Jackson Balcombe.
Bendigo FNL footy second semi-finals scoreboard:
GOALS – Gisborne: Zac Denahy 3, Brad Bernacki, Matt Merrett 2, Braidon Blake, Shane Clough, James Gray, Dylan Johnstone, Harry Luxmoore, Pat McKenna. Sandhurst: Fergus Greene, Cobi Maxted 2, Bryce Curnow, Cooper Smith, Lachlan Tardrew, Dayten Uerata, Lachlan Wright.
BEST – Gisborne: Flynn Lakey, Zach Vescovi, Brad Bernacki, Macklan Lord, Frank Schipano, Liam Spear. Sandhurst: Lachlan Tardrew, Cooper Smith, Harrison Free, Noah Walsh, Cobi Maxted, James Coghlan.
GOALS – Sandhurst: Luke Crawford, Jack Keating, Brodie Montague, Oscar Perez, Alex Wharton. Gisborne: Hayden Doricic, Luke Weber, Tom Wood.
BEST – Sandhurst: Wil Pinniger, Darcy Mills, Rory Ellett, Brodie Montague, Oscar Perez, Jack Keating. Gisborne: Boyd Nalder, Ed Williams, Rohan Nicol, Jacob Murphy, Tom Wood, Kane Minns.
GOALS – Sandhurst: Oscar Cail 3, Joseph Artavilla, Finlay Lockhart. Golden Square: James Wilkinson 2, Archie Eaton, Jack McMahon.
BEST – Sandhurst: Jaxon Howard, Will Bassett, Charles Duke, Oscar Cail, Deakin Andrews, Shannon Tardrew. Golden Square: Oliver Eaton, Lincoln McKern, Riley Dillon, Jack McMahon, Melvic Pambai.
Schedule for Saturday’s preliminary finals at Queen Elizabeth Oval:
Under-18s at 10.45am: Golden Square v Gisborne.
Reserves at 12.45pm: Gisborne v Strathfieldsaye.
Seniors at 2.50pm: Sandhurst v Strathfieldsaye.
Picture by Golden Square Cricket Club.HOW do you describe what surely must be the fastest century scored in the history of the Bendigo District Cricket Association
All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueReflecting this week on his remarkable innings that was the talk of the BDCA last Saturday night
Golden Square coach Tim Wood says it's still a blur what he accomplished at Bell Oval earlier in the day
It was one of the scorecards where you had to look twice and could have been forgiven for thinking - is this legit
114 off just 44 balls against the competition's ladder-leaders
Wood's stunning display of power hitting was the headline of one of the most entertaining one-day games in BDCA memory
with the match not only featuring his fireworks at the top of the order
but it also came down to Golden Square needing 35 runs with one wicket in hand to get over the line
While the final scorecard shows Wood making 114 off just 44 balls - a strike rate of 259.0 - he brought his century up off only 34 deliveries
he did have a bit of luck in getting to three figures when on 99 he glided a delivery from Suns' captain Cameron Taylor that went through the legs of Ben DeAraugo at first slip
Wood spent just 42 minutes at the crease and was dismissed on the first ball of the 12th over when he slashed outside off stump to a Jack Smith delivery
Early flurry of wickets and Felmingham's blitz ignites Jets in T20 final
but the ball did look like a beach ball coming out of the bowlers hand," Wood said
"I've never seen the ball with that much clarity out of the bowler's hand before..
Opener Wood saw the ball with such clarity that already after the first over bowled by Dylan Bailie he was on 20 having struck three fours
114 off 43 after 11 overs before his dismissal in the 12th over
Wood scored 114 of the Suns' 135 runs while he was at the crease
"It's all a bit of a blur to be honest; it just went so quick," Wood said
"Those who know me know how much I love hitting sixes
Those who know me know how much I love hitting sixes
Exactly 100 of Wood's 114 runs came through a combination of sixes (10) and fours (10)
while his other 14 runs came from eight singles and three twos
Wood's ton was the fifth century of his BDCA career and the third that has come against the competition powerhouse Suns
"There's nothing better than playing against the best and I think you do get up a bit more for those big games against a side like Strathdale," Wood said
"Competing and doing well against the best is what you want to be doing."
Wood's innings last Saturday is all the more meritorious given when he took on the Golden Square coaching job during the off-season he was unsure whether he'd play
"I didn't think I had it in me any more to be honest
he says he has never seen an innings like it from a pure power hitting perspective
I was actually quite happy with some of the things our bowlers were doing to try to get him out," Taylor said
"But he was just hitting it so extensively around the field; there was no set area to try to get him off strike..
it wasn't like he was lobbing them over the fielders heads
he was clearing the boundary by a good 30 metres."
Leg-spinner Taylor - who took 6-40 - bowled nine balls to Wood
who scored 27 runs off those nine deliveries
"I was trying to change my pace as much as I could
get spin on the ball to try to get a mis-hit..
we changed the bowlers up the best we could
but it was one of those days where Woodsy just batted terrifically."
Golden Square's one-wicket win over the Suns - the experienced duo of stand-in skipper Jake Higgins and Scott Johnson guided the side over the line from 9-226 chasing 260 - continues a Bulldogs' resurgence this season
Golden Square currently has the longest first XI finals drought stretching back to the 2018-19 season when the Bulldogs lost the grand final to Huntly North - a game in which Wood famously hit the first delivery of the match for six
But with three rounds remaining the Bulldogs sit third on the ladder - only half-a-game off top spot - ahead of a huge round 10 match starting this Saturday against Wood's former team Strathfieldsaye
The Bulldogs will again be without one of the competition's standout players this season in all-rounder Liam Smith
who will miss again with a hamstring injury
Picture by Tom O'CallaghanGolden Square's popular Cafe Polkadot is about to close its doors
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueOwner Sharon Arthur and her team are bidding farewell to customers as they enter their final week at the Abel Street venue
Cafe Polkadot has operated for two-and-a-half years after taking over from food venue Adam & Eve
It has been an eventful period for Ms Arthur with everything from its in-demand pancake menu to the moment two women appeared with TV cameras in tow
were contestants on the third season of Hunted
They wanted to shout customers hundreds of dollars worth of drinks
in a complex attempt to misdirect the law enforcement experts on their tails
Cafe Polkadot owner Sharon Arthur is preparing to close her business
Picture by Tom O'CallaghanThat happened last year but the episode only aired in September
"All of a sudden I'm watching TV and Mum messages me to say 'I'm looking at you on Hunted!' and I said 'what?!' So I quickly changed the channel," Ms Arthur said
Ms Arthur said she was closing Cafe Polkadot to look after her mental health
The last eight months had taken a particular toll as she juggled staff availability with the demands of the business
struggling on days where I don't have the extra help in the kitchen," she said
The businesswoman was looking on the bright side
"I think I've picked the right time because I have noticed in the last three months people are being a lot more selective with what they're buying," Ms Arthur said
Cafes, pubs and restaurants across Australia have been feeling the pinch, with the Australian Restaurant & Cafe Association saying there was a "perfect storm" of weak consumer demands and higher business costs
"Many are unable to lift menu prices to cover costs due to soft consumer demand," he recently told the Australian Associated Press
Ms Arthur did not know exactly what she would do after the cafe closed on Thursday
"I'm going to have a break and work that out next," she said before thanking loyal customers and her family for their support
GRAND finalists Gisborne and Sandhurst led the voting tallies for this year’s Michelsen Medal in the Bendigo Bank Bendigo FNL senior footy fairest and best award.
It was a dramatic finish to calling of votes cast by umpires across the 18-round home-and-away series.
The Gisborne tally of 77 was led by joint winners Brad Bernacki and Braidon Blake on 20 votes, as on-baller Flynn Lakey polled 18 votes to be runner-up.
Completing the medal trifecta was Sandhurst captain and on-baller/mid Lachlan Tardrew on 20 votes.
Sandhurst’s tally of 74 votes in the medal race included 12 for Fergus Greene who kicked 80 goals to claim the Ron Best Medal.
A group of 15 Dragons featured in Michelsen Medal voting.
Leading vote-getters from Golden Square were Jordan Rosengren and Ricky Monti on 12 and 11.
Eaglehawk’s tally of 56 votes was led by Billy Evans on 17, ruckman Brayden Frost and on-baller Ben Thompson with nine each.
A consistent workload by Strathfieldsaye Storm was shown by a group of 11 polling votes.
Best for Strathfieldsaye were Lachlan Gill on 10; Daniel Clohesy, eight; and Riley Wilson, seven.
The play of Castlemaine’s Bailey Henderson and Kalan Huntly in the Magpies’ flight to a sixth-place finish meant they lead the team’s tally on 14 and 13 votes.
A first-year player at Kangaroo Flat, Luke Ellings polled nine votes from a wing.
On-ballers Anthony Zimmerman and Brody Haddow were South Bendigo’s highest vote-getters on nine and seven.
Maryborough’s tally was led by key defender Kya Lanfranchi.
Rundown of club-by-club voting for the Michelsen Medal:
14 Bailey Henderson; 13 Kalan Huntly; 6 Michael Hartley; 5 Brodie Byrne; 3 Ryan Eyre, Zavier Murley; 2 Lloyd Butcher, Matt Filo; 1 Jack Chester, John Watson.
17 Billy Evans; 9 Brayden Frost, Ben Thompson; 6 Joel Mullen; 5 Bailey Ilsley; 4 Sam Thompson; 3 Kallen Geary; 1 Marcus Angove, Charlie Langford, Jack Thompson.
20 Brad Bernacki, Braidon Blake; 18 Flynn Lakey; 4 Ryan Bourke; 3 Macklan Lord, Pat McKenna, Jack Scanlon; 2 Shane Clough, Zac Vescovi; 1 Jackson Cardillo, Patrick Trotta.
12 Jordan Rosengren; 11 Ricky Monti; 9 Tom Toma; 8 Kai Daniels; 4 Jayden Burke; 3 Macey Eaton, Melvic Pambai, Zack Shelton, Tom Strauch; 2 Terence Reeves, Jack Stewart, Zac Wescott; 1 Hugh Freckleton.
9 Luke Ellings; 5 Jack Lefroy; 3 Toby Roberts; 2 Justin Bateson, Josh Halsall, Kyle Symons; 1 Ethan Roberts.
4 Kya Lanfranchi; 2 Coby Perry; 1 Josh Britten, Bailey Edwards.
20 Lachlan Tardrew; 12 Fergus Greene; 8 Cobi Maxted; 6 James Coghlan, Nick Stagg; 5 Noah Walsh; 4 Caleb Connick; 3 Zach Pallpratt, Lachlan Wright; 2 Ollie Hannaford; 1 Jake McLean, Connor Sexton, Alex Wharton, Joel Wharton, Matt Wilkinson.
9 Anthony Zimmerman; 7 Brody Haddow; 5 Brock Harvey; 2 Zaydyn Lockwood, Isaiah Miller; 1 Steven Stroobants.
10 Lachlan Gill; 8 Daniel Clohesy; 7 Riley Wilson; 5 Cooper Jones, Caleb Sheahan; 4 Malik Gordon, Tim Hosking, James Schischka; 3 Caleb Ernst; Jed Daniels, Bode Stevens.
Picture by Enzo TomasielloStaff at a popular gymnasium are doing cartwheels after securing a new home
All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinuePalmer's Gym has moved from the YMCA Tom Tweed Stadium on Mundy Street to a large shed on Beischer Street
current owner Emma Carmody said she was relieved Mr Palmer's legacy would continue
"It's like a dream - it's a joy to come here," she said of the new venue
"It's taken us over a year to actually find this place
but it was thanks to the Bendigo public for helping us."
Ms Carmody said when she found out the Mundy Street lease wouldn't be renewed she started posting on social media
including the owner of the large shed who arranged the lease
"[The gym] has been running since the 1970s - John is now coaching great-grandchildren - and I think people have just understood the longevity of us and [the importance of] continuing that longevity for the community," she said
Picture by Enzo Tomasiello'We are growing and evolving'With a bigger space
the gym has broken records for the number of children attending
Last year the gym had 600 gymnasts enrolled
not including the Tumbletots program for four-month-olds to 10-month-olds
rehabilitation programs and an afterschool program for all ages
The gym runs by John Palmer's mantra - helping every child become the boss of their body
"We say two things: every skill is possible
The future of the Tom Tweed Stadium is unclear, with owners YMCA recently putting the venue up for sale
Picture by Golden Square Football Netball Club Facebook pageFormer Williamstown VFL player Jake Maher has joined Golden Square for the 2025 season
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe strong-bodied midfielder-defender returns to footy after missing the past two seasons due to work and family commitments
The Mallee Eagles product played two years at Williamstown
featuring in 27 matches for the Seagulls across the 2015 and 2016 seasons
He played alongside current Golden Square skipper Jayden Burke at the Seagulls
who was a big driver in getting Maher to lace up the boots again
Maher while playing for the Pioneers."Jake is good mates with Jayden Burke
and they've been chatting over the past month about him making a return to footy," Eaton said
"He hasn't played much in the past few years as he has his own business and a couple of young boys
but he's got to a stage where his life is a bit more balanced now and is keen to get back into it."
Maher and Burke also came through the Bendigo Pioneers program together, where Maher was captain during his senior year
Maher was a member of St Bernard's VAFA Premier B premiership side in 2018 and played 21 games in two injury-interrupted seasons for Huntly in 2021 and 2022
it will be Maher's first game of footy since a one-off reserves appearance for Strathfieldsaye in round five of 2023
Maher has hit the ground running this pre-season
Former Pioneers captain and VFL player Jake Maher joins Golden Square"He's looked really fit on the track for someone who hasn't played in a while and has been in our top running groups," Eaton said
"I'm not exactly sure where he's going to play yet
but with a few of the VFL boys (Tom Toma and Ricky Monti) leaving
being a pretty physical player and not minding getting his hands dirty
so we'll see how he progresses over the pre-season before locking him into a position."
With his experience playing at a high level
Eaton said Maher would be a vital addition
His tough in-and-under style will help take some of the load off the younger bodies
who will be asked to do more this season in Monti and Toma's absence
"We've got a gap in our list where we've got our core of early 20s guys mixed in with a few older ones
so it will be good to have someone of Jake's experience who's played a high level," Eaton said
our focus for recruiting has been looking for a player who fits in well with a young group
"You look at the top sides over the past few years
and they've always had those bigger bodies around the footy."
Maher joins young forward Harry Law
Carson James and Dermott Bell as the Bulldog's main recruits this off-season
Law played four games for Southport in the VFL in 2023
The Weekly SOURCE is published by DCM Media
The Bendigo Campaspe Goldfields Premier League got back under way on Saturday
and Moama showed it hadn’t missed a step over the Christmas break
A home fixture against Golden Square was the challenge in the first round back
with the visitor looking to take second spot on the ladder from Moama if it was successful
it was the Steamers that demonstrated their quality
winning three of four rinks on the way to a 16-80 to 2-67 victory
Skips Kevin Anderson and Matt Robertson shared the honours for largest margin of the tie
Anderson’s foursome of Brock Keenan (lead)
prevailed over a Dylan Fisher-led side 23-15
while Robertson’s team of Brian Davie (lead)
Olivia Cartwright (second) and Peter Campbell (third) were successful 22-14
Cameron Keenan also skipped a winning rink
Bryce Young was the only Golden Square skip to earn his side points
picking up a 24-19 win in the remaining rink
Moama solidified its top two position with the win
but wasn’t able to make up any ground on league-leader Bendigo
who also earned 16 competition points in their match-up with Kangaroo Flat
Moama will make the trip to Kangaroo Flat Bowls Club
hoping to capitalise with maximum points against the competition’s winless side
The Steamers are seven points behind Bendigo and boast a far superior shot difference
Bendigo also looks to have a less challenging contest coming up
The competition has five regular season rounds remaining