Contact: Cameron Frost (0490 424 828)
Email: castlemaineuke@4stringsgood.org
Phone: 0490 424 828
Meets: Thursday nights 7:30-9pm at the Criterion Hotel
We meet weekly to play and sing along with an emphasis on learning, fun and social inclusion. Our group formed in Nov 2016. We would like to extend a welcome to uke players with any level of experience.
Contact: Eliza Tree (0409209707)
Email: elizatree@castlemaine.net
Phone: 0409209707
22 Hargraves St Castlemaine.
Art Open, Meet the Makers is a biennial, Mount Alexander shire wide event taking place over two weekends, 10 -18 March 2018, including the Labour Day long weekend. Up to 100 artists, dozens of studios, arts trails and exhibitions make up this Visual Arts Festival held in and around Castlemaine. Across the shire, professional artists and artisans will throw open their studio doors and invite people to share their creative work spaces. Arts Open will be held in collaboration with Castlemaine Fringe, Leanganook Music Festival and Regional Centre for Culture activities and events. Information, maps and booklets will be available at:
Contact: Sandra Aitken (0412243315)
Email: barfoldhall@gmail.com
Phone: 0412243315
1909 Kyneton-Redesdale Road, Barfold
Barfold is a locality situated on the Heathcote-Kyneton Road in Victoria, Australia. It has a community hall, Barfold Hall, and an Anglican church, Barfold Union Church. A significant geological feature in the area is the Barfold Gorge, a four kilometre long gorge which is up to 80 metres deep and has two waterfalls, basalt columns and a lava cave. Barfold was the birthplace of William Watt, Premier of Victoria in 1912 and 1913.
Contact: Tina Fratta (0428329299)
Email: baringhupbus@gmail.com
Phone: 0428329299
cnr Church and Edward streets Maldon
This Bus can be booked for community activities or private functions. The bus can carry 11 passengers plus a driver. Any driver over 25 y.o. with a car licence can hire the bus. To make a booking and check availability go to www.maldon.org.au/baringhup-maldon-community-bus-service/. Check the bookings calender for availability, read the Bus policies, then print and complete the Charter/Hire Agreement. You can also make a phone booking on 0428 329 299 or email baringhupbus@gmail.com. The Maldon Neighbourhood Centre runs a community transport service providing a flexible bus service between Maldon, Baringhup, Castlemaine, Chewton Wesley Hill, Barkers Creek, Campbells Creek and links to existing PTV services. The Community Transport Service can pick up from residential houses and take people door to door and the bus can be hailed down whilst on route. There is a regular community bus service on TUESDAYS and FRIDAYS. The bus can accommodate wheelie walkers and shopping trolleys. Check out the bus timetable www.maldonnc.org.au/community-bus and give us a call on 5475 2093 to book your seat. Calling after hours? Just leave a message with your pick up address, destination and a contact phone number.
Cemetery for the Baringhup township.
Contact: David Anderson (0418 326 338)
Email: dadavidando@gmail.com
Phone: 0418 326 338
Meets: Second Monday of the month
Baringhup Community Committee works to support all residents of Baringhup. We meet regularly, liaise with Mount Alexander Shire Council, promote our area, preserve our natural heritage and local history and conduct a wide variety of social events. We maintain and make available our local hall and supper room for a wide variety of users. We also publish a monthly newsletter to keep local residents informed about local issues and events.
Contact: Jacqui Brown (0439552296)
Email: jacquirose.brown@hotmail.com
Phone: 0439552296
39 Alfred St, Baringhup VIC 3463
Baringhup is a rural locality in Shire of Mount Alexander, Central Victoria on the Loddon River, immediately north of the Cairn Curran reservoir and 10 km west of Maldon, 96 kilometres north west of the state capital, Melbourne.
Contact: Shane Renfrey (0435936041)
Email: barkerscreek@club.cricketvictoria.com.au
Phone: 0435936041
Cnr Specimen Gully & Peelers Road, Barkers Creek, 3451
Established in 1855, the Barkers Creek Cricket Club plays in the Castlemaine District Cricket Association with a number of graded levels including juniors. Our home ground is on the corner of Specimen Gully & Peelers Roads in Barkers Creek. Barkers Creek Cricket Club has a reciprocal agreement with the famous Cricket Club of India and have hosted teams from India in years past.
Contact: CAROL MAUNDER (0354467911)
Email: maunderjmcv@bigpond.com
Phone: 0354467911
24 KARINYAH DRIVE, MYERS FLAT 3556
Meets: First Wednesday of April
We are a Bendigo based group of beekeepers who meet monthly. Open to all intending, hobbyist or commercial beekeepers to share information with others within the industry.
A new branch of BirdLife Australia has been formed by an enthusiastic group of bird lovers, who recognise that there is a need for a branch in our amazing region. Our focus is bird watching, bird identification, surveys and advocating for birds and habitat by the collection of meaningful data to support scientific research. Also educating and encouraging new bird enthusiasts, young, old and in between. Bird walks are held on the first Saturday morning of the month. Email us at castlemaine@birdlife.org.au to join our monthly eNews providing information about our walks and activities. Also follow us on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/BirdLife-Castlemaine-District-246773012585580/.
Contact: Ginny Tan, Maryanne Rooney (0417648222)
Email: Boomerangbagscastlemaine@gmail.com
Phone: 0417648222
Boomerang Bags works to reduce the use of plastic bags by engaging local communities in the making of Boomerang Bags – community made, using recycled materials. Boomerang Bags provide a free, fun, sustainable alternative to plastic bags. By getting involved, you are participating in a global movement, celebrating a grassroots initiative focusing on community building and sustainability. Boomerang Bags communities are areas in which groups of volunteers get together to make bags.
Contact: Pat Grumont (03 5472 1032)
Email: admin@budacastlemaine.org
Phone: 03 5472 1032
42 Hunter St Castlemaine
Buda is an authentic goldfields house and garden located in Castlemaine, Central Victoria. Named after Budapest by its Hungarian owner, Ernest Leviny, it was home to the creative Leviny family for 118 years and houses their significant intact collection of furniture, art works and personal belongings. It is surrounded by an historic 1.2ha garden featuring a unique 19th century Bird Aviary and Tennis Pavilion. An accredited museum with Museums Australia, Buda is open for public viewing year round, and is complemented by an annual events and exhibitions program including talks, tours, High Teas, biennial Textiles Exhibition, and the Traditional Arts Fair every November. Includes onsite Nursery and Giftshop. Buda is a charitable not-for-profit organisation supported by Mount Alexander Shire Council and is recognised as an important historical and cultural asset of Victoria. The historic home is open Wed to Sat 12pm – 5pm and Sundays and Public Holidays 10am to 5pm. Admission applies Office hours 10am - 4pm weekdays. The Garden Room events venue is available for hire all year round. Enquiries to (03) 5472 1032 or email admin@budacastlemaine.org
Established in 1959, the purposes of the club are: 1. to promote and encourage recreational and competitive sailing and any activities related to that purpose; 2. to conduct sailing events, competitions and regattas for members and other participants; 3. to educate members in the principles of good sportsmanship, sailing and water safety; 4. to provide for the well-being, comfort, entertainment, social contact and accommodation of its members, guests and visitors.
Contact: Tanya Fleeton (0407 828 801)
Email: ccfnc@outlook.com
Phone: 0407 828 801
Fryers road Campbells Creek
Meets: Last Sunday in October
We are a non profit organisation, welcoming all volunteers and new members to our club.
Contact: Meryl Holland (54629602)
Email: campbellscreekbowlingclub@gmail.com
Phone: 54629602
100 Main Road, Campbells Creek. 3451
Meets: May 2017
The Club provides facilities for lawn bowlers of all skill levels, using a synthetic surface for play. Pennant is played through the Bendigo Division and social bowls is played regularly through the week. Community Groups are supported by providing catering and use of the facility for their events.
Contact: Elizabeth Newbirch (03 5472 2626)
Email: elizabethnewbirch@gmail.com
Phone: 03 5472 2626
Rear, Campbells Creek Community Centre
Meets: Join our mailing list by contacting 5472 2626
The garden will be open to all ages and abilities and will be wheelchair/walker accessible. The location is adjacent to the Community Centre and all are invited to join us as we begin planting in 2018. We would like to provide and maintain healthy biodiversity though creating a sustainable garden. Our goal is to establish a garden where the gardeners decide what to grow, where and how, and to share the produce or decide for whom to give the products.
Contact: Melissa Scott (0427 223 358)
Email: caspa@castlemainefringe.org.au
Phone: 0427 223 358
Level 1, 101 Mostyn Street, Castlemaine 3450
CASPA (Castlemaine Contemporary Art Space) is an open-access, artist-run initiative devoted to promoting the wealth and diversity of contemporary art in the Castlemaine and surrounding area. It supports emerging and established artists and promotes contemporary art in this region. We feature a new exhibition of visual art every month, and host a variety of music and performance events. As an artist run space, CASPA is a not for profit organization, managed by volunteers and exhibitings fees are to cover running costs.
Contact: Judy Hopley (5472 1156)
Email: castlemainegardenclub@gmail.com
Phone: 5472 1156
Meets: Fourth Tuesday of July, 6.00 for 6.30 pm
Castlemaine & District Garden Club meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month from February to October, 7.00 pm for 7.30 pm start. Meetings are held at the Wesley Hill Hall, Duke Street, Castlemaine. Meetings in January and November have a special format. January starts the year with a picnic at the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens with an end-of-year dinner closing the year in November. Membership of the Club is open to all and costs $20 a year per household ($31 if you want a paper copy of the newsletter, MULCH, mailed to you). Subscriptions are payable at the beginning of each calendar year. The Club distributes a newsletter, MULCH, to all members and other like-minded organisations. MULCH (in colour) is available via email on request. New members very welcome. Follow us on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/CastlemaineGardenClub/
Contact: Peter Williams (5472 1235)
Email: castlemainebowls@gmail.com
Phone: 5472 1235
27 Berkeley St. Castlemaine
Castlemaine Bowling Club Inc. is a sports and recreation club situated at 27 Berkeley St. Castlemaine. The Club is affiliated with Bowls Victoria and Bendigo Bowls Division for both weekend and mid-week pennant. It supports social and barefoot bowls. The Club also has a Croquet section which is affiliated with Croquet Victoria and Northern District Croquet Association for pennant, and golf croquet is also available. Our Club incorporates and is the home for, Castlemaine Indoor Carpet Bowls Association which has a summer and winter competition. The Club has a fully licensed bar, a large dining hall and commercial kitchen which makes it suitable as a venue to hire for meetings and community group functions.
Contact: Barb Guerin (03 5472 2892)
Email: castlemainecameraclub@gmail.com
Phone: 03 5472 2892
Salvation Army Hall, 47 Kennedy St, Castlemaine.
The Castlemaine Camera Club holds monthly meetings on the first Tuesday of the month (except January) at the Salvation Army hall at 47 Kennedy St Castlemaine (next door to the train station) starting at 7:30pm. Our meetings include special guest speakers, information sessions and friendly competitions. In the warmer months we have workshops on the third Tuesday of the month. We have been successfully trialling Saturday morning photo shoots followed by a coffee shop visit and these will continue in 2018. We are regularly invited by community groups to cover their events and we have photographed at Newstead Live!, Relay for Life, Race the Train to Maldon, Interwinter Mountain-biking and Castlemaine Idyll. We welcome all enthusiastic photographers!
Contact: Neil Woodfine (0408 741 358)
Email: castlemainecemeterytrust@gmail.com
Phone: 0408 741 358
Castlemaine General Cemetery, Campbells Creek, VIC 3451
Burials at Castlemaine Cemetery (which is actually at Campbells Creek) date back to 1853. Castlemaine's first official cemetery had been established in 1852 in Templeton Street, which would later become the centre of the town. It was closed in 1856, and bodies were removed from the old cemetery to the new. The cemetery has some traditional evergreen plantings, including pines and arbutus trees, and the quaint Sexton's office stands near the gate. Castlemaine Cemetery's Chinese section features a large number of gravestones and a Funerary Tower, where offerings were burnt for the benefit of the departed.
Contact: Kirsty Sutherland (0435 462 749)
Email: classes@castlemainecircus.com.au
Phone: 0435 462 749
Kennedy St Castlemaine
Castlemaine Circus provides circus classes, workshops and performances for all ages throughout the year. Classes include acrobatics, gymnastics, aerial, parkour and the circus arts (juggling, unicycle). We are a not-for-profit organisation providing accessible and affordable classes in our well equipped venue or we can come to you. Our trainers are highly trained practitioners from the region. Our classes our challenging, fun, social and welcoming to all.
Castlemaine Community House provides programs and activities contributing to community development and supporting individuals and groups within the local community. Castlemaine Community House is in Castlemaine, Mount Alexander Shire, within the Central Goldfield region of Victoria. It is situated 120kms from Melbourne, approximately an hour and 15 minutes from the city. Castlemaine is encircled by at least six towns, each with their own particular identity. In addition to its established population, the Shire is a magnet for an increasing population of arts practitioners, tree changers, down shifters and those pursuing an alternative lifestyle based on environmental sustainability. Castlemaine Community House provides programs and activities contributing to community development and supporting individuals and groups within the local community.
Contact: Joyce Sanders (5470 6298 (Secretary- Joyce Sanders))
Email: castlemainecwa@gmail.com
Phone: 5470 6298 (Secretary- Joyce Sanders)
Meets: Meetings are held on the 4th Tuesday of each month at the Ray Bradfield Room at 6:30pm
Community women's group working to improve the conditions for country women and their children by fundraising and lobbying for change.
Contact: Hetty Veldman (03 5472 1305)
Email: hetvel68@gmail.com
Phone: 03 5472 1305
21 - 27 Berkeley St, Castlemaine
Castlemaine Croquet Club is situated at 21 - 27 Berkeley St and is part of the Bowls Club precinct. Croquet is played on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday mornings at 10am in winter and 9am during daylight savings. Association Croquet is played on Wednesday at 10am and Saturday at 1pm. Coaching is available in both forms of the game and new players and visitors are very welcome. Croquet is great for exercising the body and the mind and has the added bonus of making new friends as well.
Contact: Secretary
We are an inclusive club with a focus on having fun whilst enjoying road and track cycling. No previous road or track cycling experience is necessary.
Phone: 03 5472 1440
Camp Reserve, Forest Street, Castlemaine Vic 3450
CFNC is one of Australia’s oldest and proudest sporting clubs and has a rich history of success and notable past players. We compete in the prestigious Bendigo Football Netball League at senior level, the Bendigo Junior Football League at junior level and in the Victorian Country Masters Australian Football League. The club is one of the largest community organisations in Central Victoria and has over 350 active members pursuing their passion for football and netball. We are both structurally and culturally “one club” in terms of the junior and senior teams and pride ourselves on the active involvement of our senior sportsmen and women in junior development. Our mission is to have sustainable and successful sporting teams by fostering local talent and encouraging all members of the community to participate. We aim to have fun but are serious in our commitment to excellence and providing pathways to realise potential. There are many opportunities to be involved, whether it’s playing or coaching, as part of our wonderful volunteer base or joining in our associated social activities. CFNC is the perfect outlet for participation in the Castlemaine community and we actively assume leadership in many broader initiatives, particularly those surrounding health and wellbeing and the participation of local kids in sport.
Contact: Lorelle Huntly (0438552823)
Email: secretary@castlemainefnc.com.au
Phone: 0438552823
Forest Street (Cnr Gingell Street) Castlemaine Vic 3450
THE PATHWAY! Castlemaine Football Netball Club offers the highest level of AFL, AFLW & Netball in our region. We are a family friendly, all inclusive club that caters for all ages - Age Groups start at Auskick (5 & over) - U9 - U10 - U12 - U14 - U15 Girls -U16 - U18 - Youth Girls - Reserves - Seniors & Masters in AFL Football together with Development Squad - 17 & Under - B Reserve - B Grade - A Reserve & A Grade Netball. We are part of the Bendigo Football Netball League. Our focus is on providing people of all ages a place to meet others whilst enjoying the outdoors and learning all about team sport and the advantages it offers to everyone. With over 500 members we always cater for every person who is part of our club - come join us and be a part of our future - become the next Tiahna Cochrane (AFLW), Kane Farrell (ALF) or Dustin Martin (AFL)
Contact: Azzy Jones
The mission of Fringe is to showcase and empower our many talented local artists and promote the development of unique creative experiences. Over nearly three decades the Fringe has attracted thousands of patrons and artists to Castlemaine for this fun-packed festival. The Castlemaine Fringe is a celebration of the belly of life. Fringe is the Festival of the Mount Alexander Arts Collective, an organisation providing access and support for emerging and existing artists, musicians and other creatives in the Central Victorian region. The Fringe fosters and promotes an array of creative practitioners who develop and promote their ideas and work under this umbrella. The 2019 theme 'diversity and inclusion' is reflected in the events and activities on offer: exhibitions, music, theatre, poetry, sunset soiree in the Botanic Gardens, writing workshops, locally made movies, studio visits, art debates and more. Fringe is people for art and art for the people!
Contact: Tony Cormack
Email: secretary@castlemainegoldfieldsfc.net.au
Chewton Soldiers' Memorial Park, Fryers Rd, Chewton VIC 3451
CGFC is the only football (soccer) club in the Mount Alexander Shire. We offer introductory football games (small sided) for our youngest members (5-9), mixed male and female junior teams (U10-U16) competing in the the regional Bendigo Amateur Soccer League, and senior competition for men (Melbourne Metro) and women (Melbourne Metro). We also support a range of social programs during and outside of the official season for women and men. As the only club in the Shire we aim to find a place for everyone interested in playing the World Game. All roles are undertaken by volunteers and the club requires participation and involvement from all to maintain itself.
Contact: Joyce Sanders (54706298)
Email: joycesanders@bigpond.com
Phone: 54706298
Meets: Monthly, 1st Thursday of month, 7:30
This small history group gathers monthly at 7:30 pm ( first Thursdays) at the Five Flags Hotel (dinner optional at 6:30pm) to discuss topics in World War I history as it relates to Australia. Family history stories or memorabilia are welcome, or just personal studies to contribute on any topic.
Contact: Secretary (0354742426)
Email: georgeamilford@bigpond.com
Phone: 0354742426
36 Mostyn Street, Castlemaine, Vic
The spirit of Legacy is service in the care of widows and dependant children of those who have served in the defence of their country and who gave their lives or their health. The Legacy promise, to care for those left behind, was first made in the heat of the battle of Pozieres in 1917. It is brought to life locally by selfless support of the many dependants within the Mount Alexander Shire. Financial, practical and social support includes Legacy Laurel Club activities and an annual Christmas Luncheon. Twenty-two active Legatees attend to the needs of the Shire's cohort of Legacy Widows.
Contact: Janine (5471 3505)
Email: jmccarthy@castlemainehealth.org.au
Phone: 5471 3505
142 Cornish Street Castlemaine
Meets: Monday, 26 November 2018
Castlemaine Health is part of the Victorian public hospital network. We deliver a range of health services to people living in and around the Shire of Mount Alexander. We provide respectful, compassionate care to our inpatients and outpatients. Our aged care residences are home to a close-knit community supported by caring, local staff. We deliver nursing and palliative care services to people in their homes. We also offer social support and activity programs in the community.
Contact: Terri Baigent (0422505055)
Email: CastlemaineHighlandPipeBand@outlook.com
Phone: 0422505055
Band Hall, The Old Tea Rooms, Castlemaine Botanic Gardens
Meets: 18 August 2019
The Castlemaine Highland Pipe Band is a social band that regularly plays a range of local events. We have been in the community since 1953 and are known for wearing traditional uniform, including feather bonnets, horse hair sporrans, woolen kilts and plaids. The band holds weekly practices in the band hall, located in the Castlemaine Botanic Gardens. Every Wednesday evening from 7 pm onward is a full band practice. Learner's start at 6 pm. All are welcome. We love beginners, so if you're interested in learning the bagpipes or drums feel free to contact or just drop in. Experienced players looking for a friendly band should join the team too!
Contact: Secretary (5470 6072)
Email: chsi@castlemainehistoricalsociety.com
Phone: 5470 6072
7 Goldsmith Crescent, Castlemaine, 3450
Meets: General Meeting, 1st Monday of the month at the Former Courthouse
Castlemaine Historical Society Inc. maintains, and adds to, a very large archive of historical records related to Mount Alexander Shire. These are available for public access every Tuesday at The Former Courthouse, 7 Goldsmith Crescent, Castlemaine between 9am and 3pm. Expert researchers are available to help and can also manage postal research requests. We hold monthly meetings with guest speakers on topics of local interest. Public lectures can also be arranged as can a variety of walks and tours of historic interest.
Contact: Gerry Egan
Our working area is on public land within Castlemaine, focused around Forest and Moonlight Creeks. Our website and Facebook page give more details. We hold monthly working bees on the 4th Sunday of the month from February to November, with a shorter working bee and breakup BBQ in December.We notify of location and starting time via email. We generally start at 9am in the summer, 9.30am in autumn and spring and 10am in winter. Working bees usually run for 2-3 hours, with delightful morning tea chatter. Requests to be put onto our contact list or to obtain a membership form can be made through the contact person. Some members cannot attend working bees, but those who do attend a working bee are covered by insurance, whether or not they are financial members. Membership fees are used to cover the group for insurance, post office box etc. and also to seek additional contract services to support our work. Grants and additional help from State, Local and Federal Government support our work. To cater for people's time schedules, volunteers can also work outside of working bees as Keepers of the Creek. We can provide guidance about how to become a Keeper.
Tennis club with 12 courts. Hard court and synthetic grass.
Contact: Jess Saunders (03 5472 1458)
Email: jesss@ncgrl.vic.gov.au
Phone: 03 5472 1458
Entry via Mechanics Lane, Castlemaine
Castlemaine Library is part of the Goldfields Libraries, and the only branch in Mt Alexander Shire. We provide 3 public internet computers, free WiFi access, access to colour copying, printing and scanning and regular weekly one-on-one IT help sessions. We will be implementing a home based library service in 2018, too. We also feature 3 weekly children's sessions during school terms as well as a great school holiday program, regular events, lectures and workshops for adult and young people as part of our Seasonal Program, the Castlemaine Seed Library and a host of outreach activities during the year. It's worth checking out our website, and also subscribing to our newsletter for e-updates.
Contact: Kir Larwill
Email: castlemainepress@gmail.com
Lot19, McShanag's Lane (off Langslow Street) Castlemaine.
Castlemaine Press is a not-for-profit organisation made up of passionate printmakers who work together to provide a community-access print studio for printmakers near and far – a space where you can hire presses and equipment, do workshops, and take part in collaborative opportunities. We recognise that printmaking facilities are difficult to access and adequate studio space is also out of reach for many people. Castlemaine Press seeks to make printmaking more accessible by providing these facilities along with training, gallery space and a collegial atmosphere. Our studio has great natural light, presses both large and small, plenty of bench space and easy access. Set in the Lot 19, arts precinct of Castlemaine, Castlemaine Press is a place to meet printmakers, work collaboratively, build skills and produce prints using quality equipment. The space hosts a variety of activities that provide opportunities for members to work alongside others, be supported by more experienced printmakers and gain skills. Castlemaine Press is community owned and run. We are run by a committee selected annually by and from our members.
Contact: Chris Hooper (0354705508)
Email: chrislhooper1050@gmail.com
Phone: 0354705508
25 Lyttleton Street, Castlemaine
The Repair Cafe is a group of people who meet on the last Sunday of each month at Castlemaine Town Hall (previously Ray Bradfield) , from 10 to 1 to repair broken items for the community - items that may otherwise end up in landfill. Bring along household appliances, sewing, darning, picture frames, small furniture, blunt knives etc. The idea is that you learn to repair where possible. We also serve delicious food and beverages and provide a welcoming space for all. It's called a cafe because you may have to wait to see a repairer as we do get very busy. We welcome new repairers and anyone who'd like to help on the day. No new items after 12.30.
Contact: The Office Team (5479 2000)
Email: enquiries@cssk.vic.edu.au
Phone: 5479 2000
11 Rilens Rd, Muckelford, VIC 3451
Set on 18 beautiful acres the Castlemaine Steiner School & Kindergarten is an independent school offering formal programs from Kindergarten to Class 8, and Playgroup.
Contact: Kate Stones
The Castlemaine Theatre Company is a not for profit community theatre. We produce theatre works that are both entertaining and challenging, and support the growth of our community as theatre audiences and practitioners. We have a creative and vibrant Youth Theatre Company who stage their own self devised works. They form an integral part of our activities. We also host ‘Speakeasy’ events on a monthly basis – informal social meetings for our members to experiment with play readings and improvisation. The Castlemaine Theatre Company considers itself theatre for the people, by the people and of the people.
Contact: LIzzie Casley
Email: castlemainetoylibrary@gmail.com
Uniting Church Hall, 12 Lyttleton St, Castlemaine
The Castlemaine Toy Library is a non-profit community organisation run by volunteers. We are funded by grants, membership fees and through fundraising activities. Established in 1987, the Castlemaine Toy Library offers local families with preschool children the opportunity to borrow toys and take them home to enjoy. Our toys are well-designed, safe, non-branded, non-gender specific, and educational. Our wide selection includes infant toys, games, slides, outdoor toys, dress-ups, balance bikes, ride-ons, puzzles, musical instruments, and theme-play and role-play toys such as kitchens, dolls and train sets. We keep our toys in great condition and buy new ones on a regular basis. Our toys are aimed at a wide range of ages, from babies to early school years.
Contact: Allison Nye (03 5470 5414)
Email: anyecastlemaine@gmail.com
Phone: 03 5470 5414
Meets: September 2018 TBC
Mission: to educate about family violence and work towards building / buying a "safe" house in Mount Alexander Shire.
Contact: Sally Morgan (03 5470 5339)
Phone: 03 5470 5339
Sparks Ave, Chewton, 3451
Cemetery for Chewton township.
Contact: John Ellis (03 5472 2892)
Email: johnellis@outlook.com.au
Phone: 03 5472 2892
Chewton Town Hall, Main Road, Chewton
A monthly publication that is Chewton and district-centric – published to publicize and promote local events, groups and businesses. The Chat is a not-for-profit publication of the Chewton Domain Society, which is also a not-for-profit community organisation. Contributions of ideas, news items, articles, and letters are always welcome; as are advertisements that help meet monthly production costs. The Chat is also available on-line at www.issuu.com and www.chewton.net The Chat operates in conjunction with the chewton.net Facebook page The Chat is a member of the Community Newspaper Association of Victoria (CNAV).
Contact: Julie Holden (0354722557)
Email: holden.julie.j@edumail.vic.gov.au
Phone: 0354722557
1 Hunter St Chewton
We are a small school of 75 students with an active gardening, cooking and literacy program that is always looking for additional support.
CHIRP Community Health offers a wide range of services and programs aimed at promoting health and preventing illness.
Contact: Frances Howe (5472 1594)
Email: info@connectingcountry.org.au
Phone: 5472 1594
233 Barker St, Castlemaine VIC 3450
Connecting Country is community-operated not-for-profit organisation working to restore and enhance biodiversity and improve the productive natural environment across the Mount Alexander region in central Victoria. What we do: - Implement on-ground works to increase and enhance native vegetation and habitat through grazing change, revegetation, and pest plant and animal control. - Engage community through education events, an active website and volunteer involvement. - Monitor birds, arboreal mammals and vegetation across the shire. - Support our 30 local Landcare and Friends groups.
Contact: Libby Page (0402031153)
Email: ej_page@outlook.com
Phone: 0402031153
Elphinstone Recreation Hall, Olivers Lane, Elphinstone
Elphinstone Playgroup offers families with pre-school aged children a fun, unstructured place to play and socialise with other local families. Children and families enjoy weekly craft activities and access to a large variety of toys and resources, the outside yard is fenced with a sandpit and playground. Come along and play! When: Tuesdays 9:15am - 11:15am (during school terms) Where: Elphinstone Recreation Hall, Olivers Lane, Elphinstone Cost: $3 per family
Contact: Fiona Gatt
Email: epa@elphinstone.net
Incorporated in 2013, the Elphinstone Progress Association Inc (EPA) was formed during the process of drawing up the Elphinstone Community Plan. The group meets about five times per year, normally on a Monday night at the Elphinstone Hotel. The EPA has managed at least one grant every year and used them for projects such as a new community noticeboard, town map, Karaoke fundraiser night and a 2018 Elphinstone calendar. The major project of the group is currently to improve the 'town centre' area.
The Friends work with Parks Victoria to care for Kalimna Park, a 187 hectare bush reserve on the north east boundary of Castlemaine. Home to koalas, echidnas, swamp wallabies and kangaroos and a large range of birds, the Park also is a habitat for the threatened Eltham Copper Butterfly. The Friends care for the park by advocating for track work, weed control, correct management of controlled burns and we organise activities such as guided walks, weeding and planting days. Visit our website at www.kalimnapark.org.au - new members always welcome!
Golden Point Landcare was formed in 1994 and seeks to improve natural resource management in the Forest Creek catchment on both private and public land through promoting natural regeneration of native flora and fauna with on ground works of weed control and revegetation of local indigenous native plants. We work closely with Connecting Country and its education and monitoring programs.
Contact: Diana Forrest (0411 185 638)
Email: dianabou05@hotmail.com
Phone: 0411 185 638
7 Parker Street, Guildford 3451
We are an avid group of men and women that meet regularly to engage members of the community in all aspects of gardening. We grow a variety of fruit and vegetables to supply ourselves and local families in the community with fresh produce, as well as to engage as many people as possible to benefit from community activities that are proven to enhance the mental, emotional and physical health and overall wellbeing of those involved.
Contact: Stephen Cole (0421 475 943)
Email: grumpyhq@gmail.com
Phone: 0421 475 943
7 Havelock St Guildford
Meets: 1st July Annually
The Guildford Grumpies are a local Guildford group that has been established as a Social Club and Incorporated Car Club that supports the local Guildford community. The Grumpies conduct regular fundraising events and activities, and the funds raised are distributed to local individuals, Families, Businesses, and Clubs. The Guildford Grumpies is made up of men from the local community who are over the age of 60. The group is an important fellowship and resource base for the local community. The Guildford Grumpies hope to establish "The Guildford Grumpies Mens Shed" in 2018, to further enhance the work already happening in and around Guildford and District.
Contact: Bob Forde (0354734225)
Email: bobandjudy@ozemail.com.au
Phone: 0354734225
Meets: Monday 5th February 2018
Guildford Progress Association was formed in 1945 as an independent body promoting and maintaining works which aim to improve Guildford for the benefit of it's residents
Contact: Greg Edward (03 5473 4331)
Email: gtedward54@gmail.com
Phone: 03 5473 4331
32 Fryers Street Guildford, Victoria
The Guildford Public Hall is available for hire and is right in the middle of Guildford just across from the Guildford Family Hotel.
Contact: Booking Officer (03 5474 2226)
Email: harcourtleisurecentre@gmail.com
Phone: 03 5474 2226
68 Binghams Rd, Harcourt
The Harcourt Leisure Centre is a spacious indoor facility set within the grounds of the Harcourt Recreation Reserve in Bingham's Rd, Harcourt. It includes a large flexible space, kitchen, smaller meeting room, power, seating and bathrooms. The adjacent Reserve is utilised for seasonal sports of Football, Netball, Cricket and Tennis. The building serves as the Harcourt community hall, accommodating up to three concurrent uses and is the home of Harcourt CWA, Harcourt Carpet Bowls association and many other community events. Harcourt Leisure Centre is ideally sized, equipped and situated to serve as a regional event centre. It is a popular venue for large scale annual events as well as funerals, weddings, dances and birthday parties .
Contact: Jan Hull (54742420)
Email: info@harcourt.vic.au
Phone: 54742420
Harmony Way, Harcourt, Vic 3453
Harcourt Cemetery is located on Harmony Way , Harcourt. Gazetted in 1862, the first burial was that of Robert Young on 30th December 1866. The cemetery features many examples of Harcourt Granite tombstones, the largest being to the memory of quarrymaster Joseph Blight. Denominational sections were allocated to the Catholic, Wesleyan, Presbyterian, Church of England and Methodist churches with land reserved at the western side for all others. A notable monument in this latter section commemorates Henry Robert Bastow, Victorian Goverment Architect, who ended his days as a community leader in the locality. A lawn section was established in 1982
Contact: Mary Tigg (0400861950)
Email: maryandgordon2@bigpond.com
Phone: 0400861950
Harcourt Recreational Hall Harcourt
Meets: November 2018
Harcourt CWA is 86 years old and has been influential in the lives of many women in the Harcourt area. The Members who meet twice monthly enjoy fellowship, learn new skills and are involved in supporting and initating many State and Federal policies. The Members are well known in the local community for their work with the local Hospital, School, and also present a concert annually which is attended by many seniors in the shire. The Members of the Harcourt CWA are an interesting and happy group of members who welcome new members with new ideas.
Harcourt Progress Association aims to support initiatives that benefit the Harcourt community. The HPA publishes the Harcourt Core: community newsletter; works to attract funding opportunities; supports the Applefest and conducts the annual Harcourt Easter Egg Hunt. We run an Adopt A Roadside program to improve the town entrance and maintain the newly landscaped Calder Freeway roundabout. We are working with Council to construct a new community playground and with VicTrack to restore the Harcourt Railway Building for use as a community space. We are actively involved in supporting the Harcourt Mountain Bike Park and the Harcourt Miniature Railway Park. The HPA encourages and supports volunteers within Harcourt and welcome all comers to our meetings and events.
Contact: Secretary (03 5474 2226)
Email: mail@castlemaine.unitingchurch.org.au
Phone: 03 5474 2226
28 Buckley Street, Harcourt, Vic
A small country congregation with weekly services, every Sunday, at 9am. We are friendly, welcoming and accepting and enjoy trying new ideas and forms of worship. We love music and singing, and are very good at it! The congregation is very active in support of the less fortunate, working with Uniting Share agency, Act for Peace and works in partnership with Lentara Refugee Welcome Centre. We share our Buckley Street premises with Harcourt Pre-School Centre and with Harcourt Community Playgroup. The church building , of Harcourt Granite, dates from 1865 but is better seen from the inside, every Sunday at 9.00 am.
Contact: Secretary (0400 916 527)
Email: info@harcourt.vic.au
Phone: 0400 916 527
7 High Street, Harcourt
Harcourt Heritage has a mission to collect, display, research, preserve and promote the history of the Harcourt Valley. We share a lot of that information online at heritage.harcourt.vic.au. Harcourt Heritage is the custodian of the C H James collection and operates a museum and research centre in the ANA Hall in the centre of Harcourt. Opening hours are 9.00 am to 4.00 pm every Wednesday. A monthly program of tours and talks brings the past to life. Local history publications are available for sale. Harcourt Valley Heritage & Tourist Committee also conducts the annual Harcourt Applefest in partnership with Harcourt Progress Association and local community groups.
Contact: Robert Thompson (0408 555 509)
Email: maldon@lions201v1-4.org.au
Phone: 0408 555 509
Fountain Street, MALDON VIC 3463
Meets: 5th Wednesday of any month
The Maldon Lions club operates a op-shop in High Street, Maldon. We raise money for our local community, as well as running the Easter fair, Carols by candlelight and other events throughout the year.
Contact: Station Manager (03 5472 4376)
Email: info@mainfm.net
Phone: 03 5472 4376
1 Halford St Castlemaine
Meets: Mid calendar year
MAINfm is a community radio station that broadcasts to the Mt Alexander Shire from Maldon to Ballarat. It is a volunteer run oganisation based at 1 Halford St Castlemaine. We broadcast 24/7, with a strong program grid from 9 in the morning (sometimes earlier) to midnight, seven days a week. Our volunteers present programs, train other volunteers, fundraise, help around the office, assist in outside broadcasts and any number of other tasks through the year. Membership is by application and is required to become a presenter but; Subscription is open to everyone.
Contact: Secretary (0407 833 380)
Email: secretary@maldonshow.com.au
Phone: 0407 833 380
Maldon Racecourse Reserve, Lewis Road, Maldon
Meets: AGM Wednesday 14 February, 2018
Maldon Agricultural Show has been going since 1885, and except for the war years has not ceased operation. The Spring Show features our local farmers, has a great horse program and has a range of activities for all the family. Join us on the 3rd Sunday in October yearly for the Maldon and Baringhup Agricultural Society Show.
Contact: Joy Leneaux-Gale (0354751326)
Email: newgrasmere@mmnet.com.au
Phone: 0354751326
97 High Street Maldon
The Maldon Athenaeum Library has been serving the people of Maldon and district continuously since 1863 even when the original building burnt down in 1933 the Committee operated the Library from a private residence hence the 154 years of continuous service. Everyone is a volunteer and the volunteers open the Library 4 times each week, take books to the house bound, the hostel and the hospital. The school and the kindergarten are encouraged to attend and story times are held. The Library is active in community events such as Maldon in Winter, the Easter Fair and the Folk Festival. We receive no regular grants from any level of government and are part of the Mechanics Institutes of Victoria.
Contact: Robert Thompson (0408 555 509)
Email: maldonbrassband@gmail.com
Phone: 0408 555 509
Francis Street, Maldon VIC 3463
Meets: Tuesdays 7:30 PM, Maldon Community Centre
The Maldon Brass Band was formed in 1863. We are ALWAYS seeking new and experienced players to join our Band.
Contact: Daryl Walker (0408 599 173)
Email: info@maldoncemetery.com
Phone: 0408 599 173
80 Maldon-Shelbourne Road Maldon
The Maldon Cemetery is located approximately 3 kilometres from the Maldon Township, and lies 300 metres (984 feet) above sea level. Maldon Cemetery is unique amongst most Victorian Cemeteries in that it has no separate religious areas. No matter what religion, each interment as it happened is buried chronologically unless members of the family had a pre-purchased plot. There are over 7,500 burials recorded burials.
Contact: Tina Fratta (54752340)
Email: teapots1@bigpond.com
Phone: 54752340
5 Francis Street Maldon 3463
Established in 1925 Maldon Croquet Club is situated in the heart of Maldon. We play Golf Croquet, both at level and handicap play, we play 3 mornings a week, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday's. We have one A court and an excellent green, there is a clubhouse and currently, we have 27 club members. We are part of the Northern District Croquet Association (NDCA) with our members playing district pennant and regular interclub challenges plus social play days. Visitors and new members are always welcome to come and have a game, we are a friendly and relaxed club, we have spare mallets and can offer to coach new players.
Contact: Secretary
Email: secretary@maldonfocus.org.au
The aims of Maldon Focus Inc. are: 1. To work towards Maldon physically reflecting its unique heritage and its title of Australia’s First Notable Town. 2. To enhance Maldon as a viable, living, sustainable community. 3. To network and liaise with community interest groups and our elected representatives, formally and informally, to foster collaboration. 4. To be a well informed, respectful and respected communication channel to the Mount Alexander Shire Council.
Contact: Pam Lyons (0421643478)
Email: mail@maldonfolkfestival.com
Phone: 0421643478
42 High St, Maldon 3463
Maldon Folk Festival, located in Central Victoria, has been held annually for more than four decades. Each year we provide a long weekend of quality entertainment at affordable prices, to suit all age groups.
Contact: Maldon Hospital (03 5475 2000)
Email: admin@maldhosp.vic.gov.au
Phone: 03 5475 2000
Corner of Chapel & Adair St, Maldon
Maldon Hospital provides a range of services including: Aged Care Acute Services District Nursing Social Support Transport Health Promotion Dr Fowler (private practice hosted by Maldon Hospital) Dorevitch (private practice hosted by Maldon Hospital)
Maldon Incorporated is a not-for-profit public association of businesses and organisations formed to promote business and tourism in Maldon and to assist other Maldon organisations.
Contact: Chris Hain (03 5475 2093)
Email: market@maldonnc.org.au
Phone: 03 5475 2093
1 Church St. Maldon Victoria
The Maldon Market is a monthly Sunday market for lovers of hand grown produce, home made food and gorgeous hand made crafty treats held on the second Sunday of every month in Fountain St & the Shire Gardens, Maldon. The Maldon Market features specially selected stall holders from the creative and fertile heart of Victoria, as well as emerging Melbourne talent. From soap to soup, fruit to furniture, plants to pants, jewellery to jumpers, the Maldon Market has something for everyone. With a passion for grass roots creativity and quality products, the Maldon Market provides visitors the chance to meet the dedicated makers, bakers, sewers and growers behind the exciting range of things the market has on offer. Located in the historic goldfields region between Castlemaine and Bendigo, Maldon provides a peaceful country market atmosphere that the whole family will love. Spend the morning at the market and the afternoon in the town and you will have the perfect day trip to Australia's first National Trust classified town. Better still, come on Saturday and stay in some of the quirky, quaint or simply beautiful accommodation and make a weekend of it!
The Maldon Men's Shed meets every Wednesday from 9:30 to 4:00 at the shed in Phoenix Street (behind the machinery museum). All men welcome to come and join in with a bit of woodwork or just come for a chat and a coffee.
Contact: Secretary (03 5475 1633)
Email: secretary@maldonmuseum.com.au
Phone: 03 5475 1633
Old Shire Hall, 93 High Street, Maldon, 3463
Meets: September each year
The Maldon District Museum contains a large and diverse collection of artefacts from the district. The artefacts range from the unique and highly significant to the curious and commonplace; they all contribute to the rich narrative of the Maldon District. Our museum volunteers meet weekly to catalogue and care for the collection. The History Research Centre houses an extensive collection of Maldon District records, images and reference material which is useful for family history and local district research. Expert researchers are available to assist and manage research requests and we are working to put information online at maldonmuseum.com.au. Public opening hours are Fridays 10am to 2pm for research and Saturdays 1:30pm to 4pm and Market Sundays 10:30am to 2pm to view the museum. Other times by appointment.
Contact: Valerie Evans
Email: secretary@maldonmuseum.com.au
Old Shire Hall, Shire Gardens, 93 High Street Maldon Vic 3463
Maldon Museum is located in the old shire hall in the Maldon gardens in High Street Maldon and is open to the public every Saturday from 1:30pm to 4:00pm and the second Sunday of every month from 10;30 until 2:00pm. Our mission is to preserve and make accessible to the public, items and documents of Maldon and District.
Contact: Amy Atkinson ((03) 5475 2093)
Email: info@maldonnc.org.au
Phone: (03) 5475 2093
cnr Church & Edwards Sts, Maldon
The Maldon Neighbourhood Centre was incorporated in February 1986 and has since been an important resource for our town and the wider community. We offer a variety of facilities and services, including Learn Local courses, occasional childcare, meeting spaces, playgroup, community garden and a range of clubs and societies. We undertake community development projects and advocate for our community. We are a not-for-profit community based organisation that encourages a sense of belonging and community engagement. The Maldon Neighbourhood Centre offers a child-friendly outdoor space, a meeting area and classroom, a Community Garden open to all and a drop-in centre with comfy couches and a welcoming atmosphere as well as the fantastic Church Hall.
Contact: Coordinator (+61354752093)
Email: info@maldonnc.org.au
Phone: +61354752093
1 Church St, Maldon 3463
The Occasional Childcare service at the Maldon Neighbourhood Centre has been caring for the children of Maldon, Baringhup, Castlemaine and surrounds for many years. It is lovely to see the connections and friendships that start so young and continue throughout childhood as children head to pre-school, primary school and beyond. Occasional childcare is unique as families can book their children in as needed - there is no requirement to book every week and once enrolled, we accept children with only 1 week notice. Eligible families can now access the Childcare Subsidy (CCS) from the Federal government meaning that our service is very affordable with low to middle income families paying no more than $25 per day – and in some instances as little as $7.50 per day. Come and meet with us today to discuss how to enroll your child(ren) and to meet our friendly, qualified staff. The Occasional Childcare service operates every Monday from 9.30am – 2.30pm and we go through the school holidays too. Contact us for an enrolment pack today.
Contact: Sandy Noble (0429 006 130)
Email: sandycharmian@gmail.com
Phone: 0429 006 130
St Brigid's Church grounds Corner Adair and Chapel Streets Maldon, 3463
The Club was established in 2003 and has a growing and enthusiastic membership. Pétanque is a family game where gender, age and physical prowess have very little to do with success. Skill and cunning need time to develop! We extend a warm welcome to visitors and new players. Come and try pétanque with us. Boules are available at no charge and an experienced player will guide you through the basics. You just might find it’s the sport for you. We meet every alternate Sunday, with games starting at 2 pm. and at 1:30 in the winter months. After the competition we repair to the church hall for a delicious afternoon tea. President: Andrew Leckie - Phone: 03 5475 1474 Secretary: George Forster - Email: ghforster@bigpond.com - Phone: 5472 1506 Address of Play: St Brigid's Church grounds Corner Adair and Chapel Streets Maldon, 3463 Melway Map 921 C10
Contact: Evelyn (0418 615 968)
Email: ejackson.35@bigpond.com
Phone: 0418 615 968
6 Francis Street, Maldon, VIC. 3463
Meets: AGM in August. Monthly committee meetings. Quarterly General / Social Meeting
We are a vital, active and inclusive group of people 55 years and over, who create and acheive activities for our members to partake in.
Contact: Bev Phillips (0407770350)
Email: maldonurbanlandcare@gmail.com
Phone: 0407770350
7 Boundary Rd Maldon VIC 3463
The main objectives of Maldon Urban Landcare Inc (MULGA) are to care for and restore the natural environment, and secondly to educate the local community about the importance of, and how to care for, the natural environment, in and around Maldon. Most of MULGA's current activity is working on the Maldon Historic Reserve (land managed by Parks Victoria), undertaking weed control, revegetation, and maintenance of past revegetated areas.
Contact: Hartley Mitchell (0439 007 756)
Email: hartleydmitchell@gmail.com
Phone: 0439 007 756
Metcalfe Community Hall, Kyneton-Metcalfe Rd., Metcalfe, 3448
The Metcalfe Community Association works to foster and maintain the community of Metcalfe. The MCA organises the annual Metcalfe Tractor Pull and Woodchop both to unite the community and to raise funds to support our local CFA, Senior Citizens Group, Hall Committee, Tennis Club and Landcare group. The MCA also organises regular social occasions for the community to come together in our community hall and produces the Metcalfe Directory which assists our residents keeping in touch with each other. The MCA maintains our community notice board situated near our post boxes. All members of our community are very welcome to attend our meetings. They take place in the Metcalfe Community Hall starting at 7.30 pm. Generally there are five or six meetings each year and each meeting is well advertised during the two weeks before it takes place.
Contact: Fiona Clapham (0354232682)
Phone: 0354232682
Kyneton-Metcalfe Road, Metcalfe, near the corner of Wilsons Rd
Contact: Emma Dubuc
Email: eedubuctimson@gmail.com
Mirawara is about enhancing cultural and environmental awareness through participation in nature based activities. Mirawara's vision is to help our community connect with each other, creating a better understanding of our cultural diversity and the connection we all have with our natural environment.
Contact: Admin (0354711700)
Email: info@mountalexander.vic.gov.au
Phone: 0354711700
27 Lyttleton Street, Castlemaine VIC 3450
Mount Alexander Shire has much to offer, from beautiful heritage streetscapes and picturesque townships to stunning natural surroundings, a thriving local economy and a strong and vibrant cultural life. Our elected Councillors provide local governance to a thriving community of more than 18,000 residents, inhabiting an area of 1,529 square kilometres, divided into five wards. Located in Central Victoria, there are properties and facilities for all lifestyles, from young families to retirees. From health and education to sporting and retail, Mount Alexander has it all, without compromising the importance of the environment and a peaceful and relaxed lifestyle. For visitors, the region offers wonderful opportunities to explore its rich heritage, the natural environment, a wide selection of award winning local produce and a range cultural activities and events.
The Youth Advisory Group (YAG) assists Council to better engage with young people when conducting community consultations. The group provides input into Council decisions and strategies, helps to identify issues and solutions on matters relevant to young people, and helps to develop local youth initiatives. We aim to have a diversity of views and experiences on the group. Any young person aged 12 to 25 years can apply to become a member. The group meets fortnightly and is guided by the Mount Alexander Shire Council Youth Engagement Charter and the group’s Terms of Reference. The Youth Advisory Group is supported by Council's Youth Development Team. Council's Youth Advisory Group is supported through the Victorian State Government Engage! 2015-2017 Program.
Contact: Lorraine le Plastrier (+61439964179)
Email: masdag@cch.org.au
Phone: +61439964179
C/- Castlemaine Community House, 65 Templeton Street, Castlemaine 3450
We are an independent advocate proudly auspiced by Castlemaine Community House. Our aim is to promote systemic change that supports equitable social participation for the wide range of disabilities experienced by residents in Mount Alexander Shire. We understand the importance of social inclusion for everyone, including people with disabilities, their families and carers. By systemic change, we mean: • Promoting disability awareness and community education. • Making ourselves available to support and to collaborate with Mount Alexander Shire on policy, planning and information • Taking action on known safety trouble spots for all pedestrians (including those with low vision, or using sticks, walking frames, prams, wheelchair, scooters or crutches) • Making ourselves available to groups and organisations to provide feedback on project designs to ensure adequate and safe disability access • Following up with VicRoads, VicTrack and VicRail where disability access and safety issues are raised * Providing disability access information and guidelines for event organisers.
Contact: Volunteer (03 5470 6978)
Email: info@masg.org.au
Phone: 03 5470 6978
325 Barker St, Castlemaine VIC 3450
Meets: November
Mount Alexander Sustainability Group (MASG) is the peak sustainability organisation for the Mount Alexander Shire, delivering education, research, advocacy, and endorsement for shire wide sustainability and clean energy initiatives. MASG was established in 2006, by a passionate group of locals who wanted to see coordinated action on climate change and support the Mount Alexander Shire Community to work towards a sustainable future. MASG is local people taking action to combat climate change. As an organisation MASG is committed: • To significantly reduce the region’s contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. • To target zero net emissions by 2025 in the Mt Alexander Shire. • To encourage, support and partner with other organisations and business to help the shire reach this target • To protect, and where necessary, enhance the built environment. • To help build and nurture a community in which relationships, social justice and creativity are highly valued. • To Seed, Support and Deliver projects which have aligned goals and are strongly supported by the local community. • To have projects which optimise the use of local resources. • To have financial, social and sustainability benefits realised in the local community and its economy. Our members are householders and local schools, businesses, and community organisations. A charity and non-government organisation, MASG can receive tax deductible donations to assist us with our work. MASG regularly responds to partnership requests, and works to support local organisations, businesses and projects by sharing resourcing, providing financial auspice, volunteers and exposure through our marketing networks.
Contact: Sas Cook (0402087949)
Email: sarah@movementzone.com
Phone: 0402087949
20 Campbell Street, Castlemaine 3450
Movement Zone (MZ) have been dance leaders since 2009! We offer specialised classes in Hiphop and Breakdance, Dance Therapy, Private lessons, School workshops, holiday programs and choreography. The Movement Zone studio is also available to hire for rehearsals, classes or workshops, creative developments, small showings, meetings, children parties and conferences. MZ is committed to providing a high quality space for independent artists and community based activities. MZ is well appointed in the centre of Castlemaine, comfortable, spacious, clean and fitted out. Specs: 6.3 x 10.3m metres/Sprung floors/Ducted heating and aircon/Mirrors/Wall mounted ballet barres suited for children & adults/Jigsaw mats/Natural light / blackout curtains/PA with aux plug in/Projector & Screen/Access to chairs and trestle tables by request /TV & DVD player/Wheelchair accessible/Lockers (for regular users) and ample car parking/Storage/Coffee machine & Tea facilities/Fridge/Unisex toilets
Contact: Robyn Lewis (0438724025)
Email: intouch@netcon.net.au
Phone: 0438724025
Meets: Quarterly meetings
MtACE raises funds for community projects through their partnership with Bendigo Bank and Bendigo Telco. Every account linked to MtACE generates a commission and the management committee decide how these funds are spent within our community. Funds are spent on identified projects such as Food@Christmas, pre-driver training, sport facility redevelopment plus annual grants to community groups. The more people who choose these businesses and ask to link their accounts with MtACE, the greater the funds we have to return to our community.
Contact: Brett Cole (0439882765)
Email: brettcole49@hotmail.com
Phone: 0439882765
9 Nolan Street, South Muckleford
Meets: August 2018
Located just outside of Castlemaine, the Muckleford Cricket Club is affiliated with the Castlemaine & District Cricket Association. We currently have 4 open age teams, 2 Under 16 teams and 2 Under 13 teams. We welcome any new players and their families, no matter their ability, race or gender we will aim to accommodate.
We're volunteers. We love Newstead. We want to make it THE place to live for people who value being part of a community . We support the development of a vibrant, informed and sustainable community in our town & surrounds Our aims are: 1. To support the discussion and implementation of ideas and projects that benefit the Newstead community 2. To seek and communicate relevant information about issues concerning our community 3. To support actions that improve the social, cultural, economic and environmental well being of the Newstead community 4. To promote two way dialogue with Local Government 5. To actively seek resources that can contribute to our goal
Contact: Secretary
Email: Secretary.ndhs@gmail.com
The Old Courthouse, 2 Canrobert Street, Newstead, 3462
Meets: April 2018
Our society's purpose is to record and preserve the districts history. Our volunteers meet every week, cataloguing and updating our local history is a priority. Society's opening times are Monday mornings from 9.30 a.m to 12.30 p.m for research. Other times by appointment. Visitors most welcome, we look forward to seeing you.
Contact: Janet Barker (0439 003 469)
Email: ecologica@gcom.net.au
Phone: 0439 003 469
Layard St (rear Anglican Church) Newstead
The Newstead Community Garden aims:
The Newstead ECHO committee publishes a monthly community newspaper 11 times a year to keep the community interested and informed of events etc, articles of local interest, personalities, and historical articles all to help make the whole community feel connected. The publication is also published on the web keeping former residents and others in touch with the district.
Servicing the community at times of loss and sadness.
Our purpose is to develop a series of local walking and wheeling options and where feasible to make them accessible for users of wheelchairs/mobility scooters/ prams and pushers. We are also interested in contributing to the development of longer distance trails which link to neighbouring towns/villages. Newstead Walks and Wheels is affiliated with Newstead 2021.
Contact: Cultural Development Officer (03 5471 1877)
Email: arts@mountalexander.vic.gov.au
Phone: 03 5471 1877
Mechanics Lane, Castlemaine
The Castlemaine Phee Broadway Theatre is situated in the heart of Castlemaine and shares the former Mechanic’s Institute Building with the Castlemaine Library. The theatre seats 230 people and has access for patrons who use a wheelchair. The foyer of the theatre is a shared public space with the Library and is utilised as an exhibition space throughout the year. The Phee Broadway Theatre programs an annual season of live performance and theatre featuring a selection of touring productions from across Australia as well as locally produced work. You can see the program for this year here. The theatre is also used for community and school productions, touring shows, live music, dance, forums, seminars and lectures. See upcoming community events here.
Contact: Rain Millar (0401 794 664)
Email: phoenixchewtoncwa@gmail.com
Phone: 0401 794 664
Meets: November 2018
Phoenix Chewton is a vibrant new branch of the Country Women's Association of Victoria with a modern profile. Supporting women, children, and their families in our Mount Alexander community. We have regular coffee and catch up sessions at the Chewton General store from February through to December, and welcome any invitations or ideas where we can be of assistance to our local communities. We would love to welcome new families to the community
Contact: John Leavesley (03 5472 3182)
Email: bjleavesley@bigpond.com
Phone: 03 5472 3182
Meets: 10.00 2nd Sunday each month except January. AGM September
Post Office Hill Action Group (POHAG) was formed ten years ago to protect Old Post Office Hill and surrounding area to retain it as open public land, available to the whole community. The Chewton Primary School is virtually surrounded by this reserve of 22.6 hectares. The area is important and interesting environmentally, historically, socially, geographically, and geologically. Research has uncovered many unique features. POHAG's activities are predominantly focused on weed control (woody species in particular), and revegetation using indigenous plant species.
Contact: Libby Mayes
Email: director@runthemaine.org
Volunteer group, event organisers of Run the Maine fun run.
S.M.S. Single Mums Support is a group run by parents for parents. It’s designed to support single mums in the Castlemaine region. The group accepts single fathers also but it predominantly geared towards support for women. The group is run through Facebook. S.M.S. aims to provide shared support through baby sitting, school pick ups, meal & shopping support when parents are sick, recycle baby & children's goods to others, share accommodation and rental listings, recycled furniture, updates of free or low cost family friendly events and a place to seek advise, share the load & feel empowered. This is a place to find help by supporting each other !
Contact: Amber Smolak (0354722432)
Email: south.castlemaine.kin@kindergarten.vic.gov.au
Phone: 0354722432
9 Etty Street Castlemaine 3450
Meets: February 21st 2018
South Castlemaine Kindergarten encourages development through active play as we believe young children learn by doing - a play based approach. We believe kindergarten and learning should be fun and we aim to display this in both our interactions with the children and in the play experiences that are planned. The program is developed according to the individual child's needs, interests and developmental level using the Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework. We believe in fostering an inclusive program where all children are regarded as equals. We foster the relationship between parents and staff, supporting and acknowledging each other and the complementary role in the education of the child. As a kindergarten dedicated to the health and wellbeing of our children, we are participating in the Healthy Together Achievement Program. This government program is incorporated into our approach, with enhanced outcomes for health, learning and development. We aim to teach children about sustainability through reduced water usage, recycling and our worm farm. In 2013 we were proud to be nominated as a Pilot Kindergarten in the SPARK Energy for Change Program. Staff, families and children were all actively involved in reducing our environmental footprint and making energy reduction a daily habit. Our kindergarten continues to work to reduce our energy use without compromising comfort levels, we have extended this with the addition of solar panels in 2015. We offer many fun ways to learn and our program includes science activities, library borrowing, cooking and the celebration of special events like Mothers' Day, Fathers' Day and festivals. We have visits from services and community members such as the Police, Ambulance, Fire Brigade, local Dentists, Bakers and reciprocal visits with the Library. We go on local walking excursions, and soon will begin visiting the local elderly hospice at Castlemaine Health.
Contact: Vivien Pells (0412882402)
Email: vivpells@gmail.com
Phone: 0412882402
921 Sutton Grange-Faraday Rd (Cnr Sutton Grange-Bendigo Rd) Sutton Grange
Contact: Steve Ebbott (0411 310 310)
Email: steve@marketingsolutions.com.au
Phone: 0411 310 310
19 Pemberton Hill Rd, Taradale Vic 3447
Taradale Community Forum Inc is a community group with the main purpose of enabling regular reporting and information sharing between the many community groups in Taradale. The Forum meets on a quarterly basis and is attended by representatives of these groups and members of the Taradale community. Taradale Community Forum is able to auspice the grants process for non-incorporated groups and has been successful with these.
Contact: Team Henderson (0354232574)
Email: pchender@bigpond.com
Phone: 0354232574
114 High Street (Calder Hwy), Taradale, opposite Taradale Mineral Springs Reserve and playground
Contact: Colleen Jones (0403744045)
Email: taradalelandcare@gmail.com
Phone: 0403744045
Taradale, Victoria
Taradale Landcare works with the community to care for the biodiversity and agricultural health of the landscape of Taradale and surrounds. We are getting started again after a few years' hiatus. We hold meetings, working bees, BBQs, bush walks, property visits and other events. We welcome new faces! Check our website or Facebook page or contact us for more details.
Contact: Christopher Burgess (54232247)
Email: burgess.christopher.d@edumail.vic.gov.au
Phone: 54232247
98 High Street Taradale
Taradale Primary School provides a safe and caring school environment where every child's efforts and achievements are valued. Parents and carers form an important part of the school community and are encouraged to become involved in school life. We are a welcoming community school located in a peaceful location with expansive leafy grounds that offer children plenty of room for exploration, learning, play and sport. Taradale Primary School offers a calm and caring learning environment as well as a high quality curriculum. Our school embraces diversity and is committed to providing a child safe environment where children and young people are safe and feel safe - regardless of race, gender, religious background, sexuality, gender identity, cultural background, linguistic background, family background, or disability. The school’s philosophy is to ensure a friendly, child centred learning environment where all students are treated as individuals and are encouraged to achieve success as independent, self-motivated learners whose voices are heard about decisions that affect their lives. We have high expectations of all children as learners and are proud of our academic results.
The Tarrangower Cactus Control Group volunteers are called 'cactus warriors', and are dedicated to controlling the invasion of Wheel Cactus (Opuntia robusta) around the Maldon-Baringhup-Nuggetty region. We raise awareness about this noxious weed within our communities and educate landowners in control techniques, by holding regular community field days and providing incentives and assistance.
Contact: Mr Max Lesser (03 54706220)
Email: max@goldenhope.org
Phone: 03 54706220
136 Main Rd Chewton 3451
Meets: May 2018
The Goldenhope Foundation (GHF) is a national registered health promotion charity with DGR status whose mission is to promote healthy strategies to combat children’s depression. It’s role could be likened to the ambulance at the top of the cliff rather than the ambulance at the bottom in a suite of strategies necessary in our Australian communities to combat depression. The GHF reinforces healthy self esteem, caring for self and others, strong community supports, taking responsibility for self, empathy and finally “no meanness” a simple strategy pivotal to reducing violence and bullying in any social interaction. The GHF has a unique approach which utilises the words and pictures created by children to pass on its message. The GHF chiefly prints and distributes 2D materials of relevance to adults and children alike which allows them to interact with the materials using their creativity, imagination, spatial, maths and language skills to color in draw, manipulate, cut up and display the materials in their own unique way, and then go on to share these with others thus simply passing on and reinforcing the message of care and support. The GHF creates strategic alliances with other community support groups and or operators to help distribute it message. As well it distributes materials to Central Victorian schools, churches, waiting rooms and tourism operators regularly, updating its materials according to changing community emphasis, special events and or special celebrations. Unlike many other charities the GHF does not seek money to support its goals, it is funded philanthropically and has no administrative costs. The Foundation has been operating for over 20 years has longitudinal data now to support the value of its mission and since its inception has delivered over 1 million printed story cards to the community locally, statewide and nationally.
Founded in May 2014, the Hub Foundation Castlemaine Ltd is a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee. It was set up to help reduce CO2 emissions in the region through a range of grassroots community projects. Our largest project to-date is MASH, short for More Australian Solar Homes. MASH is a community solar bulk-buy project which has cut emissions by around 4,500 tonnes a year (equal to around 900 cars off the road) with over 12,000 solar panels installed since September 2014. Other project include 'Plastic Bag Free Castlemaine', a campaign to encourage shoppers & local retailers to reduce their use of plastic bags. MASH partners include Mount Alexander Shire Council, Mount Alexander Sustainability Group and Councils and Sustainability Groups in neighbouring Shires.
Contact: Terry Murphy (0425 712 362)
Email: u3acm.secretary@gmail.com
Phone: 0425 712 362
The Octopus, 4 Duke Street, Castlemaine 3450
Meets: held on the the first Friday in October each year
U3A Castlemaine was formed in May 1988 and in June of that year the first Committee was elected. Membership is open to anyone residing in the Mount Alexander Shire who is retired or semi-retired. The purpose of the organisation is to provide an opportunity to share knowledge of members through classes and other learning activities. Classes are held throughout the year and may be weekly or less frequent, run for the whole year or are short courses. There are no prerequisite qualifications required, no exams held and no certificates awarded. During 2018 approximately 90 courses are being offered. Attendance at all courses is free for members but some classes charge a small consumables fee. Annual membership fee is $60.00.
Email: info@vgr.com.au
Phone: 03 5470 6658
Platform 3, Castlemaine Railway Station, Kennedy Street, Castlemaine Vic 3450
Winding through forest and open land in Central Victoria, the Victorian Goldfields Railway is a remnant of the extensive branch line railway system which served rural Victoria from around 1880 through to the 1970's. The line from Castlemaine brought rail connection to Maldon and Muckleford, achieving the aim of providing transport and communication to this isolated area. With time, the value of the branchline railway waned as the increased use of road motor transport reduced the isolation of rural areas. The Maldon Railway, no longer a vital link, outlived its usefulness and like the other 'light' lines of Victoria, closure and dismantling appeared to be the only prospect. Closure came, but through the efforts of volunteers the line has taken on a new life as a heritage railway, enabling the visitor to see, hear and participate in an active steam railway from the era of the branchline.
Contact: Chris Hosking (0437 246 727)
Email: chosking777@gmail.com
Phone: 0437 246 727
CNR View and Woodman Streets
The public hall on the corner of View and Woodman Streets in Castlemaine is a low cost venue for community groups. The hall is used by artists, fitness enthusiasts, fisher groups, bonsai folk and various dancing groups. In any given month the hall is used on average about 40 times and as peaked at 120. The committee recently finalised a project to install a new floor for the hall to take this important and valuable community asset well into the next 100 years.
Waldorf Homeschooling Group - Castlemaine style As a group we are using Waldorf education principles to educate our children and ourselves, we support each other to provide great education opportunities both in our own home and when we gather together. As parents/teachers we are committed to ongoing adult education on Steiner Philosophy so that we can become fully aware of ourselves as educators for our children and to help us understand what Waldorf is and how it influences our homeschooling. As a group we are all using a Waldorf curriculum or free schooling with a waldorf rhythm and perspective as a foundation to our children’s year. What our Waldorf homeschooling group activities look like for this group; each season we gather on a Friday in a different natural environment that truly embraces the elements expressed in each season. It is here we have seasonal festivals, seasonal crafts and stories, morning circle, free creative play all within a rhythmic structure with emphasis on the in and out breath.
Contact: Suzanne Kinnersly (5472 1522)
Email: winters.flat.ps@edumail.vic.gov.au
Phone: 5472 1522
3 Roberts Avenue, Castlemaine 3450
We are a primary school in Castlemaine leading the way in sustainability. We also belong to the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation, offering classes in growing, harvesting and preparing food.
Contact: Jac Van Velsen (0423 823 145)
Email: wisawellbeing@gmail.com
Phone: 0423 823 145
Meets: October 2018
The company is a not-for-profit public company limited by guarantee which is established to be, and to continue as, a charity.
Contact: Sarah Cook (0402087949)
Email: info@xtremeinc.org
Phone: 0402087949
28 Lyttleton St, Castlemaine VIC 3450
XtremeInc is a not-for-profit organisation established in 2009, responding to the needs of young people living in the Regional Victoria. We build a bridge between disenfranchised young people and the wider regional community including C.A.L.D. promoting the exchange of Multicultural forms for young people in Regional Victoria. OUR VISION 1. To initiate and conduct dance, art, music, extreme spots and cooking programs, events and workshops to develop the talents, skills and self-esteem of young people. 2. To engage the community in partnerships and volunteering with youth projects. 3. To provide a high quality of artistic guidance and mentoring for disadvantaged youth. 4. To encourage the participation of young people in project planning and coordination within their community. 5. To provide a platform for young people to showcase their talents and network with other young people, developing their skills and confidence enabling them to follow career paths in the performing arts. 6. To encourage the exchange of Multicultural forms for young people in Regional Victoria