Help Hatch a Community Coop: Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre Launches Chook Run Project

The Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre is calling on the community to help bring a new feathered feature to life – a community chook run!

Set to be a welcoming home for some much-loved hens, the project aims to create a sustainable and interactive space that fosters learning, connection and (with a bit of luck) a regular supply of fresh, affordable eggs for the local community.

To get the project off the ground, the Centre is seeking donations of materials and hands-on help from locals who are keen to contribute.

Items currently on the wish list include:

  • Chicken wire, hardware cloth or fencing
  • Timber, posts or pallets
  • Corrugated iron and roofing materials
  • Screws, nails, hinges and latches
  • Straw or mulch
  • Feeders, waterers or leftover chicken feed
  • Milk crates and small animal hutches

Moran, Co-ordinator at the DNC, is appealing to the wider community

“We’re inviting anyone with spare materials, a bit of know-how or just a willingness to lend a hand to get involved. Beyond food security and responding to the rising cost of living, this project is about cultivating a shared space that fosters connection, learning and a sense of collective responsibility. This is the wonderful Daylesford community spirit we want to nurture.”

This project is part of a broader initiative that includes establishing a worm farm, planting fruit trees and revitalising the existing vegetable garden beds.

Donations can be dropped off at the Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre, or pickups can be arranged.  Community members wishing to join the project are very welcome to stop by for a cuppa and conversation, Mon-Thurs 9am-3pm.

To donate materials, volunteer, or learn more, send an email to admin@dncentre.org.au or call (03) 5348 3569.

New Community Group Helps Locals Explore Their Roots – Lily’s Travels and Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre Launches “Roots & Branches…..Seeds & Fruit” Family Heritage Project

 Local residents are invited to the official launch of Roots & Branches…..Seeds & Fruit, a new family heritage group offering support and connection for those looking to uncover and preserve their personal and ancestral histories.

Hosted by Lily’s Travels in partnership with the Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre, the group will officially launch with a morning tea event on Monday 30 June 2025, from 10AM to 12PM, at The Paddock Room, 13 Camp Street, Daylesford.

This free initiative invites participants to delve into their family histories, share meaningful stories and connect with others on similar journeys. The group will offer ongoing support, education, guidance and opportunities to learn more about genealogy, oral history and cultural identity.

Whether you’re tracing your family tree, recording precious memories, or simply curious about where you come from—Roots & Branches is a space to explore, connect and grow.

Morning tea and light refreshments will be provided. All are welcome.

After the launch, the program will run each Monday morning at the Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre from 10am.

RSVP: Call the Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre on (03) 5348 3569 or email admin@dncentre.org.au

 DNC Joke of the Week

A man and his wife were driving across the country and were nearing a town spelled “Kissimee”. They noted the strange spelling and tried to figure how to pronounce it – KISS-a-me; kis-A-me; kiss-a-ME.  They grew more perplexed as they drove into the town.

Since they were hungry, they pulled into a place to get something to eat.  At the counter, the man said to the waitress: “My wife and I can’t seem to be able to figure out how to pronounce this place.  Will you tell me where we are and say it very slowly so that I can understand.”

The waitress looked at him and said: “Buuurrrgerrr Kiiiinnnng.”