Lifestyle1 issue 962

Cancer treatment centre campaign

Member for Barker kickstarts a push for radiation treatment in the Limestone Coast

After a failed bid in 2020, the campaign is set to be reignited to see a Cancer Treatment Centre set up in the Limestone Coast.

Member for Barker Tony Pasin kickstarted a potential push for a centre with two meetings last week – an invite-only meeting last Thursday afternoon where key stakeholders from local government, the local health service and community based cancer support groups met with the local MP, as well as a community meeting a couple of hours later attended by around 30 people, including from as far afield as Naracoorte.

The meetings also gave Icon Group CEO Paul Fenton (pictured), the group that put together the unsuccessful tender in 2020, the chance to pitch the service they are willing to provide the Limestone Coast.

The former Federal Coalition Government announced, Fighting Cancer – Regional Cancer Treatment Centres for Radiation Therapy program in 2019 to expand cancer treatment capacity throughout regional Australia by investing in additional health infrastructure.

In August 2020, public and private service providers were invited to apply for the $45.5 million grant program to develop regional radiation treatment centres for local cancer patients in nominated regions including in the Limestone Coast.

In response to this invitation, a grant application for a treatment centre at Mount Gambier was received by the Federal Government but Mr Pasin said this application did not proceed because the former Liberal South

Australian Government did not commit to supporting a service in Mount Gambier.

“It’s incredibly disappointing that our State Government didn’t see merit in establishing local cancer treatment services in the Limestone Coast,” Mr Pasin said.

When the current federal Government’s October budget still included what is a $4.5million allocation to a centre in the Limestone Coast, Mr Pasin decided to again pursue the vital service for his electorate.

And the Icon CEO was on hand to assure the community, the group was also still keen to provide a radiation treatment service in the region, also pointing out the 2019 Federal Government program was an election sweetener and the South Australian Government had limited time to assess the business case and commit to any funding.

On the surface the maths is simple. The Federal Government’s $4.5million will fund the purchase of a radiation treatment machine, the State Government would be looking at an estimated $3million in annual costs to cover the gap, so the services would be provided as part of the public health system and Icon Group would fund the build and running of the centre and the staffing.

The other key player in the proposed centre would be the Limestone Coast Local Health Network and its governing board, headed by Grant King, who admitted he was flying somewhat blind, having never seen the Icon proposal, but committed the board to accessing that proposal –with Paul Fenton happy to provide the original 2020 information – and fully investigating the business

case.

If this campaign gathers momentum, City of Mount Gambier councillor Ben Hood has already offered his services to help create and drive any grassroots push for the centre, utilising his skills in marketing and communications to put together an irresistible campaign, which would include a petition.

While Mr Pasin will continue to knock on doors in the halls of power, having already discussed the potential centre with Federal Health Minister Mark Butler and by advocating to South Australian health officials and making the case for the State Government’s financial input.

“Almost everyone in this community is impacted y cancer in one way or the other in their lifetime,” Mr Pasin said. “Cancer is hard enough without needing to travel for treatment and the added stress is very much unwanted at this difficult time.

“Multiple studies have shown that cancer survival rates are lower in regional areas and that distance from, and utilisation of radiation therapy is a significant factor in these statistics.”

Icon Group CEO Paul Fenton arguably said it best as he outlined to the community meeting, just what a Limestone Cancer Treatment Centre would look like.

“We are about offering the best care possible, as close to home as possible,” he said.

As a qualified radiation therapist, Mr Fenton spent nearly 14 years at Barwon Health in Geelong before managing the Ballarat service for Austin Health for two years. From there he established Epworth Radiation Oncology as the Director

of Operations, running two metropolitan sites and winning the public contract to deliver services at Warrnambool.

After six years at Epworth, Mr Fenton joined Icon Group as the State Manager for South-East Australia following the acquisition of Epworth Radiation Oncology. His significant experience as a health executive, alongside his clinical expertise, lends itself to an engaging and knowledgeable leadership style that empowers teams to deliver compassionate, comprehensive and exceptional care.

Icon would be looking to deliver more than 400 radiation treatment courses a year with the Mount Gambier Hospital precinct the preferred site for the centre.

“Icon are ready willing and able,” Mr Pasin said. “We now need to really raise our voices as a community. It’s a great opportunity for a different government to make a different decision.”

Barrie Moyle, who has been a leader in health in Naracoorte for decades, and attended the Mount Gambier meeting last Thursday, threw his support behind the proposed centre.

“This is a fantastic opportunity

and I think we should be pursuing in every which way,” Mr Moyle said.

Safe to say Cr Hood was also ready to hit the ground running.

“These opportunities don’t come along that often,” Cr Hood said.

“We need to consider the Limestone Coast and what people go through now. It needs to be driven by the community because it’s for the community.

“Everything’s aligned – the funding is still there, there’s an operator who is keen to do the job and knows how to do the job. Now the community needs to stand up and let the State Government know this is what we want.”

If the treatment centre is given the go ahead, Mr Fenton tabled a six to 12 month lag tie to have it up and operational.

White Christmas truffles

180g white chocolate, chopped 80ml (1/3 cup) thickened cream

1 tsp vanilla bean paste (optional)

40g (1/4 cup) dried cranberries, chopped 40g (1/4 cup) pistachios, chopped 35g (1/3 cup) desiccated coconut

Method

Place the chocolate and cream in a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (make sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water). Use a metal spoon to stir until melted and the mixture is smooth. Stir in vanilla, if using. Set aside to cool slightly. Stir in the cranberries and pistachios. Refrigerate for about 3 hours, stirring occasionally, or until firm enough to roll into balls (the mixture will still be a bit sticky). Place coconut in a shallow dish. Roll level tablespoons of mixture into balls and roll in coconut. Arrange in a single layer in an airtight container and keep in the fridge until ready to serve.

Hit the ground running

Historic cross border commissioner appointment

When you take a look at Liz McKinnon’s resume it is not surprising she has secured her place in history as South Australia’s first Cross Border Commissioner.

She has called both Victorian and South Australian towns home and for the best part of a decade she has held roles that required her to build networks on both sides of the border – perfectly preparing her for the tasks that lie ahead.

Member for Mount Gambier Troy Bell has long campaigned for the role to be established, COVID only served to highlight the need for the role and the establishment of the commissioner fulfils a key South Australian Government election commitment with the role providing residents, businesses, and community organisations in the border communities with a new mechanism to address issues, facilitate collaboration and engagement.

Ms McKinnon (pictured) moved to Mount Gambier about five years ago and her subsequent roles in tourism, forestry and logistics has seen her already work with key stakeholders from both sides of the border, including campaigning for funding.

Critically she already has a strong working relationship with her Victorian counterpart, Luke Wilson, and looks forward to further developing that partnership.

“We already have a strong understanding of how we can best use our skills both sies of the border,” Ms McKinnon said.

When she starts her role in the New Year, the new South Australian Cross Border Commissioner is giving herself 100 days to traverse the cross border communities to help develop a blueprint for the role both short and long term.

“My views at the moment

are aligned to forestry, those views are quite linear and I want my understanding to be more broad,” Ms McKinnon said “I intend to meet with council CEOs, mayors, school principals, hospital CEOs and business leaders.”

The Commissioner will also work with other jurisdictions, including New South Wales, Western Australia, Northern Territory and Queensland to enhance cooperation between state and territory governments.

The Member for Mount Gambier welcomed the appointment.

“After advocating for six long years for this appointment to occur, I look forward to assisting Ms McKinnon in the role, which is most importantly, based right here in Mount Gambier – one of the state’s most significant cross border communities,” Mr Bell said.

“I imagine Ms McKinnon will have her own vision of what can be achieved, however I’m convinced this role will see increased productivity for businesses and significant improvements for those communities living close to a State border.

“There are a whole range of areas where I can see our new Commissioner playing an important role, including transport, tourism, agriculture, fishing and forestry and building those all-important ties to our neighbouring states through their own Cross Border Commissioners.

“This is another election commitment asked for and delivered by our State Government before the end of their first year in government and we can look forward to many more over the next three years.”

South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas said the delivery of this election commitment was a further sign of his government’s support for regional communities through finding practical ways to create better economic and wellbeing outcomes.

“I am looking forward to working with Liz in helping to improve the lives of our cross-border communities,” the Premier said.

Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Clare Scriven also welcomed the appointment.

“The disruption brought about by the recent COVID-19 restrictions only served to highlight the long-standing issues for our cross-border communities as they try to navigate accessing work, education, health, and other services in multiple jurisdictions,” Minister Scriven said.

“Differing policies, regulation and practices produce broad ranging issues for businesses that regularly operate cross border.

“This can include having to comply with multiple systems and requirements usually leading to significantly increasing the cost of doing business in these communities.

“I am so pleased that this role will be able to help improve some of the challenges for local people.”

St Martin’s Lutheran Church

Friday Worship H/C | 6.30pm

Martins Drive) Sunday Worship H/C | 10.30am

Christian Bookshop

Open Mondays 10am – 2pm Sunday before and after

BrainTeaser

1. What was the name of the late Kirstie Alley’s iconic character in the hit sitcom Cheers?

2. Which eight teams made the 2022 FIFA World Cup quarter finals?

3. Nick Carter, Howie Dorough, AJ McLean, Brian Littrell and Kevin Richardson are the founding members of which band?

5. Which Truman Capote novella was adapted into an Academy Award nominated movie starring Audrey Hepburn and George Peppard?

6. What is a baby armadillo called?

7. In which Australian art gallery does the Jackson Pollock work Blue Poles hang?

8. Who was the leader of the Liberal Party when Labor’s Gough Whitlam swept to power at the 1972 Federal Election?

9. Bandit and Chilli are the parents of which popular children’s animated character?

10. How many surfing World Championships did Aussie Layne Beachley win?

11. Which Australian city would you be visiting if you were at the beachside suburb of Manly?

12. Ristretto and doppio are types of which popular beverage?

13. How many sides does a hexagon have?

14. Where is the great mathematicians and physicist Sir Isaac Newton buried?

15. Sinead Diver and Brett Robinson both recently set Australian records in the same athletics event – which event was it?

16. Who was the dessert pavlova was named after?

17. What was the name of Tones & I’s breakout single?

18. Which Victorian town hosts an iconic professional running carnival annually at Easter?

19. Who is the Federal Shadow Minister for Infrastructure, Transport

& Regional Development?

20. Name Enid Blyton’s Famous Five.

21. 2004 Miss Universe Jennifer Hawkins was once a cheerleader for which NRL club?

22. Just As I Am was the debut studio album for which Australian artist?

23. Steven Tyler is the lead singer of which rock band?

24. Max King, who has suffered a serious shoulder injury in pre-season training, plays for which AFL club?

25. Who won the 2022 Super Netball grand final?

26. The clarinet belongs to which section of the orchestra?

27. Linen is made from the fibres of which plant?

28. Now making his name as a fitness and health guru Sam Wood became a household name after appearing on which reality TV show?

29. What is the capital of Bali?

30. Betsey Trotwood and Clara Peggotty are centrals characters in which Charles Dickens novel?

31. What is the stage name of British magician Steven Frayne?

32. Name the four judges on the recent series of Australia’s Got Talent?

33. FINA is the international administration body for which sport?

34. What colour is the circle on the Japanese national flag?

35. What is Australia’s official cash rate?

36. Odette and Odile are key roles, usually danced by the same performer, in which iconic ballet?

37. David Hussey is the coach of which BBL franchise?

38. Ozzy Osbourne was the lead singer of which 1970s heavy metal band?

39. Which two civilisations were combatants in the Peloponnesian War?

40. Adam Forde is the coach of which NBL club?

Answers: 1. Rebecca Howe; 2. England, Morocco, Portugal, France, Brazil, Croatia, Netherlands & Argentina; 3. Backstreet Boys; 4. Taming of the Shrew; 5. Breakfast at Tiffany’s; 6. Pup; 7. National Gallery of Australia; 8. William McMahon; 9. Bluey; 10. Seven; 11. Sydney; 12. Coffee; 13. Six; 14. Westminster Abbey; 15. Marathon; 16. Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova; 17. Dance Monkey; 18. Stawell; 19. Bridget McKenzie; 20. Julian, Dick, Anne, George & dog Timmy; 21. Newcastle Knights; 22. Guy Sebastian; 23. Aerosmith; 24. St Kilda; 25. West Coast Fever; 26. Woodwind; 27. Flax; 28. The Bachelor; 29. Denpasar; 30. David Copperfield; 31. Dynamo; 32. David Walliams, Alesha Dixon, Kate Ritchie & Shane Jacobson; 33. Swimming (water sports); 34. Red; 35. 3.1 per cent; 36. Swan Lake; 37. Melbourne Stars; 38. Black Sabbath; 39. Athens & Sparta; 40. Cairns Tapians

Trip unveils career opportunities

Tenison Woods students looking to STEM-related careers after eye-opening conference

STEM-related careers have been in focus for two Tenison Woods College students with a trip to a conference in Adelaide further opening their eyes to the possibilities that exist and strengthening their resolve to stay on track for a career in science, technology, engineering and maths.

Year 10 students Sophie Wight and Trixie Crouch (pictured) have been part of the STEM girls academy and both their sights firmly set on a STEM-related career so attending the STEM Girls Conference in Adelaide was a no-brainer.

It started with a three day workshop at UniSA Mount Gambier campus, where the focus was creating a sustainable mine for the future partnering with OZ Minerals, and has wound up this year with the Adelaide experience.

“I straight away jumped at the opportunity to learn more about women working in STEM and also it helped me get out of my comfort zone when I learnt different conferences and collaborations were involved,” Trixie said. “Before the Adelaide conference, there were different workshops that you could join which had a lot of variety and helped me a lot since I find it hard to stick to something when it doesn’t interest me.”

Sophie also was looking to widen her horizons when embarking on

the STEM Girls Academy.

“It made me get out of my comfort zone as well as expand my knowledge in many different career paths that most women don’t know about,” Sophie said.

Having worked together at the UniSA workshops on designing machines to raise money for the Adelaide Museum as well as to design a robot to pick up rocks as part of the OZ Minerals partnership, heading to the Adelaide Conference was the logical next step.

The first day was held at the OZ Minerals head office in Adelaide and focussed on studentgs, teachers and staff networking, while the evening’s speed dating event proved popular.

“It involved all students creating a circle around the circle of mentors - mentors were other women who have a role in the STEM industry - and getting a minute with each mentor to learn about their job and get their

opinions on women working in the STEM industry,” Trixie said. “This was really eye-opening as you don’t realise how much opportunity is out there for careers in this particular field. The night was followed with quizzes and presentations and there was always plenty of opportunity to ask questions or get involved.”

Trixie was also mesmerised by the tour of OZ Minerals and the behind-the-scenes look at the mining industry.

“It was amazing to learn just how many jobs are created from mining and it has really has helped me consider taking up a job in this field in future,” Trixie said.

The next day’s tour of UniSA Mawson Lakes campus also captured the imagination of both girls, including hearing firsthand from OZ Mineral mine workers.

“They explained how this effects

their families, how much they make and if they enjoy what they do or not,” Sophie said. “We also had a tour of a nearby company called Codan Limited, that had created a metal detector for use in countries with land mines. We saw how and why they were made as being allowed to enter the lab where each part was being created. This was my favourite part as it was very cool to see how static electricity can mess up a whole circuit board as well as seeing how well each department works with one another.”

For both girls, the Adelaide trip cemented what has been a long held interest in STEM concepts and industries.

“Growing up, I have always grabbed at any opportunity to get involved in any STEM program available to me,” Trixie said. “I feel like STEM has so much to

offer and is so broad which really intrigues me. I have always loved maths and problem solving which has helped me have this great interest in STEM, but when learning about the lack of women in the industry really drives me to attend things like the STEM Girls Academy because even if I don’t follow through with a STEM career, the input we have now as young girls coming through can help make a change and can help get more girls involved with STEM. I definitely can see myself moving into a STEM career and hope that maybe one day I can reflect with students who are thinking of following the same path as me.”

For Sophie, it was the inspiration of her older sister Tess, who also pursued a STEM path, that saw her start to focus on the science, technology, engineering and maths areas of her schooling.

“After completing the first exhibition in Mount Gambier and really enjoying it, I decided I did want to go to the Adelaide - one as I would get more opportunities with bigger businesses to allow me to discover more jobs opportunities that don’t exist in Mount Gambier,” she said. “I do see myself more in the medical field when I’m older but seeing that opportunities in medical science does intrigue me as you can make a big difference to many people’s lives when a breakthrough is discovered.”

Remembering Narla

Funding to finance welcome packs & equipment

The

back to real estate in a sales role. Narla was diagnosed with breast cancer in September 2016 and underwent chemotherapy and radiation treatment. Her cancer unfortunately returned in September 2019 and she was

to also allow everyone that knew her the opportunity to have their own farewell and celebration,” Ms Nash said.

“We remembered how much she loved previous events at the vineyard and how much she loved wine, so a day out there with music just seemed fitting.

“We also wanted to raise some money in her honour and use it to keep her memory alive. Narla loved where she lived and was very community minded, so we wanted to make sure the money stayed local and so we reached out to Portland District Health.”

The $15,490.15 donation will be used to make up welcome packs for new oncology patients with a tag to remember Narla, and for other equipment for the oncology unit.

“These bags are exactly the same as the one we bought Narla when her cancer returned and she used it for every appointment,” Ms Nash said.

In addition to the event at Cobboboonee Vineyard on November 26, a fund-raiser swim supported by MIXX FM/ACE Radio raised $3000.

Ms Nash said she was overwhelmed by the generosity of the community. “It showed the impact that Narla had on everyone – everyone was more than happy to help where they could,” she said. “The day at Cobboboonee turned out to be

perfect. Narla had such a love for life and she really made the most of it and seeing everyone just have the best time really made me think how happy she would be watching them all.

“It was a party with more than 200 people and we finished up raising a lot more than we had expected.”

PDH Sub-Acute Services Nurse Unit Manager Natalie Herbertson thanked Ms Nash and the community for its support.

oncology services,” Ms Herbertson said.

IN MEMORY OF NARLA: (Above) Sara Edwards from Assets Real Estate, Emily Elford, Sharna Mullan & (fornt) Katrina Nash, from Assets Real Estate & Natalie Herbertson

“...it was amazing to learn just how many jobs are created from mining and it has really has helped me consider taking up a job in this field in future...”

Trixie Crouch

More than $15,000 has been donated to Portland District Health’s oncology unit as a tribute to the late Narla Saunders.

money was raised through Cobboboonee for a Cause organised by Assets Real Estate

“This is a fantastic outcome and we will make sure all the money is well spent in improving services and facilities for the people using our

Family connections from across the seas

Local family history buff finds unknown English relatives & masterminds a reunion

It was last month a group of English tourists took in the sights and sounds of the Limestone Coast. Hardly a red letter event, except this holiday was five years in the making and was a family reunion for a familiar name in this region – Medhurst.

Jean Winterfield, a Medhurst descendent, had developed an interest in family history and she became the conduit for the English and Glencoe families and the driving force behind the whirlwind weekend catch up.

It was in 2017 that Jean was trawling around the Surrey History Centre and came across a war hero by the name of Williams Edward Medhurst and she delved deeper and found more names that were familiar and eventually made contact with the centre to obtain contact details and begin the journey of meeting new family members.

From that initial request for contact details the matching of

the English and Aussie cousins happened quite swiftly with English based Annie and Shelia wasting no time to touch base with their, previously unknown, Australian relatives.

“They did not that they had cousins in Australia nor did we know about them so that whole journey has been very exciting from the start,” Jean said.

Annie Dean (Medhurst) and her husband Tony and Shelia Richards (Medhurst) and her husband Geoff turned out to be fourth cousins, with the connection dating back to the 18th century.

The trio of Medhurst women share a great great great grandfather, Michael Medhurst, who married Elizabeth French, and their great grandfathers were brothers.

In a twist of fate, just as there is a strong clan of Medhursts here in the South East of South Australia, the English Medhursts are also south easterners calling the Sussex

and Surrey region home with their ancestors originating from the towns including Hailsham, Chalvington and Eastbourne, south of London.

With the unmistakeable connection established, Jean stayed in touch with Annie and Shelia through email, facebook and messenger with 2018 the first time a trip to Australia for the English relatives put on the agenda.

“That was supposed to happen in 2020 but COVID threw a spanner in the works and the trip was postponed,” Jean said.” It was re-booked for 2021 but sadly once again our international borders and COVID put paid to that and finally 2022 became a reality for us.”

Given the magnitude of the trip, Jean realised adding other Aussie relatives to the visit made perfect sense.

“Knowing that there are so many Medhurst cousins in this region plus elsewhere I figured it would be nice for our English cousins to get to see many more relatives during their visit rather than just seeing me hence the planning to have a minireunion or get together of sorts for

us to welcome them to the South East,” Jean said.

And in the end, there was quite the welcoming party for the English visitors with around 25 cousins and their partners getting together for lunch at the Mount Gambier Community RSL after a morning of sightseeing before heading to the centre of the Medhurst universe – Glencoe – on the Sunday for a personal history tour.

It only made sense that the two English couples were able to learn about the Glencoe forefathers James and Susan Medhurst and their two children James and Emma that after arriving in South Australia in 1859 eventually ended up calling Glencoe home. Eight more children were subsequently born and since then the many generations of James and Susan have lived in Glencoe or nearby and still do today.

Peter and Lesley Medhurst kindly showed the Medhurst contingent around the area and hosted an afternoon tea at their home, provided a tagalong tour to see the sites where many of the Medhurst families lived, as well as a wonderful tour of the heritage listed Glencoe Shearing Shed and

the hall which houses many honour boards that feature the names of many Medhurst and associated families.

“It was a fabulous get together for us all,” Jean said. “Sadly one of their cousins Sue Jones had planned to come too but this year was unable to travel due to work commitments.”

Safe to say, Jean’s newfound interest in family history has only been boosted by her recent successful reunion project.

“I have a great interest in genealogy and Ancestry.com has been a boom in finding relatives and past histories plus the DNA aspect so of course to actual find living and breathing relatives, when so often they are long since gone, is very rewarding,” Jean said. “Currently my interest takes me to about six family trees piecing my prior histories together which I find interesting and finding relatives means finding lots of new friends.”

MT GAMBIER

“...finding relatives means finding lots of new friends...” Jean Winterfield

“...they did not that they had cousins in Australia nor did we know about them so that whole journey has been very exciting from the start...” Jean Winterfield

Children’s wonderland

Riddoch Arts & Cultural Centre creates first ever interactive children’s gallery in time for holidays

It is a first for the Riddoch Arts and Cultural Centre and a first for the centre’s programming officer Emma Telford and she can’t wait for the region’s families to check out The Wonder Room, a children’s gallery that opened at the weekend.

The brainchild of Riddoch Arts and Cultural Centre manager Diana Warnes, Ms Telford was more than happy to take the project and run with it, creating the space on the King’s Floor that will be a welcoming environment for young artists and their families to enjoy creative activities that celebrate all the things that are special about summer in Mount Gambier.

Ms Telford (pictured above) used Mount Gambier as her inspiration with many of the activities focussing on the flora and fauna of the region.

“I thought about what we’ve already got within the region and highlighting the things we know children love,” Ms Telford said.

The Wonder Rom offers a series of DIY activities so children will need to be supervised at all times with the new children’s gallery space open seven days a week in

line with gallery opening times.

“The Wonder Room was created to invite the community into our beautiful space to celebrate Mount Gambier in the summertime, providing a free outing to families to keep the young ones building, creating and dancing,” Ms Telford said.

Families can take part in a range of self-guided activities that include creating native animal masks to wear, designing a bird to hang on a tree installation by The Men’s Shed, and creating new colour combinations with their movements with the colour shadow installation. The Wonder Room will also have making tables, an interactive felt pattern wall, extra-large building blocks, and the perfect selfie station with a giant throne under a rainbow.

Ms Telford visited other regional galleries and metropolitan spaces to gather inspiration for the new space and with the help of City of Mount Gambier IT gurus and other community groups, The Wonder Room has come together.

Ms Warnes said participation was important for kids to grow and develop as creatives.

“The hands-on making activities

offer a scaffolded approach for different ages, from sensory experiences for little ones through to paper-based activities for older kids,” she said. “The Wonder Room is an exciting experience for families this summer.”

The Wonder Room is the centrepiece of the summer holiday program with Christmas Crafts this Sunday, for both children and adults, with marbling gift tags on the agenda, while the collaborative program between the Riddoch Arts and Cultural Centre and the Mount Gambier Library sees activities through the school holidays on offer.

The Wonder Room will be accessible until February 26 next year and for more information on all the gallery’s and library’s programs check out the website and social media platforms.

“...I thought about what we’ve already got within the region and highlighting the things we know children love...”

Emma Telford (Riddoch Arts and Cultural centre programming officer

Providing critical support

ac.care rises to the challenge of changing lives in SA

Thousands of South Australians were supported by regional agency ac.care last financial year as country people faced extra pressure due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, rising cost of living and lack of affordable housing. Innovative approaches to supporting country South Australians, including the rising number of young people in state care, were recently highlighted at ac.care’s annual general meeting.

The organisation’s annual report, released to coincide with the meeting, also highlighted the agency’s achievements across the Limestone Coast, Murraylands, Riverland, Adelaide Hills and Fleurieu Peninsula over 2021/22.

Early intervention support helped 403 people avoid homelessness across the regions, with 704 people moved from homelessness to stable accommodation.

Meanwhile, safe homes were provided for 350 vulnerable children thanks to 171 families opening their homes and hearts as foster carers with ac.care.

“Whether it is supporting children in care, people at risk of or experiencing homelessness or country South Australians living in vulnerable circumstances, our staff have been steadfast in doing

what they can to improve the quality of life for people in need of our support and implementing innovative approaches to increase our impact,” chief executive officer Shane Maddocks said.

“Cost of living pressures and the worsening housing crisis continue to significantly impact on country people, many of whom have already faced adversity throughout the ongoing pandemic.

“Our mission to ensure all country people have a safe home, enough money to live on and strong, positive relationships could not be any more important than right now.”

A major achievement during the 2021/22 period was the launched of ac.care’s Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan, setting a bold agenda for the agency over three years to make a difference in the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

“The launch of our Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan in May 2022 continues our commitment to learning from Aboriginal people and to accept the responsibility we have as an organisation to work towards reconciliation by addressing the impacts of colonisation and ongoing racism

and discrimination,” Mr Maddocks said.

Another key milestone was the official opening of the Riverland’s first residential care home operated by ac.care for young people unable to live with their birth families.

The Berri property, which can house up to four young people, provides a home-based setting that is overseen by trained ac.care staff on a 24/7 roster.

ac.care made the financial decision to purchase the property, the first time the agency has taken the approach, and one that has been repeated in alignment with a planned expansion of Mount Gambier residential care services in late 2022.

In his annual address, ac.care board convenor Rick Fisher indicated high level discussions were taking place regarding the agency’s future service delivery to ensure they align with community needs.

“Our current strategic plan is in the last year of its life and the board has taken the opportunity to completely review our planning process into the future,” Mr Fisher said.

Mr Fisher said the board and broader ac.care team was

Meals on Wheels volunteers prepare for Christmas Bringing Xmas cheer

There is very little down time for local Meals on Wheels volunteers and heading into the festive season, things ramp up even more.

The Mount Gambier facility has been a hive of activity as volunteers work on three special projects – making up gift bags for clients, delivering Christmas

meals and stockpiling a variety of frozen meals to help get clients through the Christmas break when volunteers take a well earned 10 day hiatus from meal delivery.

Gail Williams spearheads the gift bag campaign and last week volunteers put together 180 bags to brighten up Christmas time for

clients.

An individual Lions Christmas Cake, mince pies, home baked slices, truffles and biscuits, tea, chocolates and a couple of small gifts make up the 2022 bags which were handed out last Friday.

This Friday those clients will receive their traditional Christmas dinner with soup, a traditional roast and Christmas pudding, as well as those extra frozen meals for over the festive break, as requested.

“We have been doing the gift bags for about 10 years and the clients really look forward to it and it makes such a difference,” Gail said.

OneFortyOne, PFD, Woolworths marketplace, Coles and The Reject Shop have all played a role in making the gift bag project possible, as well as the baking prowess of volunteers.

“Everybody helps us put the bags together with the volunteers happy to come and help get them ready to deliver,” Gail said. Gift bags are also ;puttogether by the Millicent, Naracoorte and Beachport branches.

working to redefine ac.care’s strategic plan and long-term vision with a focus on actively engaging and building community, measuring impact and generating long-term change to break cycles of disadvantage.

The full annual report is available at www.accare.org.au/about/ annual-reports/

Do you need financial or emergency support, want to contribute to ac.care or would like to know more about becoming a foster carer? Call 1300 ACCARE (1300 222 273) or visit accare.org.

au Become a regular donor to ac.care by visiting www.accare. org.au/donate

Key agency-wide ac.care statistics for 2021/22:

• 403 people avoided homelessness with early intervention support

• 1237 people accessed ac.care’s homelessness service

• 866 people moved from homelessness into stable accommodation

• 171 families opened their homes and hearts as foster carers with ac.care

• 350 children found homes with local foster carers

• 38 children were supported in our 24/7 residential care homes

• 192 people were supported by our Aboriginal support services

•1888 people were supported in a crisis with financial help and food assistance

• 419 people managed a difficult financial situation with the support of financial counselling

FAMILY CARE: Kate and Jeremy Thomas welcome foster children, including infants, into their care, with their own children Gemma and Zoe also contributing to nurturing young visitors in their home.

Golden Gaytime icecream cake

Grease the base and sides of a 7cm-deep, 10 x 20cm (base size) loaf pan with oil. Line with 2 sheets of plastic wrap, allowing the wrap to overhang the sides. Arrange a single layer of biscuits over the base of the prepared pan. Spoon half of 1 ice-cream tub over the biscuit layer and smooth the surface. Arrange a single layer of biscuits on top. Spoon remaining half tub over the biscuit layer and smooth the surface. Arrange a single layer of biscuits on top. Spoon remaining ice-cream over biscuit layer and smooth the surface. Arrange a layer of biscuits on top. Reserve remaining biscuits. Cover with overhanging plastic wrap and place in the freezer for 6 hours or overnight until firm. Place the chocolate and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on High, stirring every 30 seconds, for 1-2 minutes or until melted and smooth. Set aside to cool until room temperature (the mixture should be runny but not warm). Process reserved biscuits in a food processor until coarsely crushed. Turn cake onto a serving plate. Pour chocolate mixture over cake. Press biscuit crumbs onto top and sides of cake. Top with Gaytime Bites. Serve immediately.

CHRISTMAS ELVES: Meals on Wheels volunteers Barry Williams, Gail Williams & Sue Hinton.

“...the clients really look forward to it and it makes such a difference...” Gail Williams

ARIES (March 21- April 20)

Lucky Colour: Mauve

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 2-3-2-1

Lotto Numbers: 2-13-26-25-24-42

Not a very good period for taking chances; leave speculations until a later date. You might not have the right answers now, so do not advice others in important matters.

TAURUS (April 21- May 20)

Lucky Colour: Cream

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 2-3-6-5

Lotto Numbers: 2-13-36-35-9-4

A very good period in your career matters and progress in business can be expected. Plenty of energy and interest in new ideas and more harmonious relationships with loved ones.

GEMINI (May 21- June 21)

Lucky Colour: Violet

Lucky Day: Thursday

Racing Numbers: 2-3-6-3

Lotto Numbers: 2-13-36-39-8-44

You could be ready for some changes in your relationships. Not the right time to push your favourite issues; gentle persuasion will work a lot better and will leave you a chance to negotiate.

CANCER (June 22- July 22)

Lucky Colour: White

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 5-6-3-2

Lotto Numbers: 5-12-23-32-20-33

You could be guessing very right during this period and time to reap what you have sown earlier on. Try to keep away from quarrelling people and compromise will be better than defeat.

LEO (July 23- August 22)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 5-3-2-6 Lotto Numbers: 5-12-24-40-11-3

Lots of social contacts and a busy period for entertaining are indicated. Good news from a distance and financial benefits coming your way. Keep your head clear for some interesting new ideas?

VIRGO (August 23- September 23)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Saturday

Racing Numbers: 2-3-6-9

Lotto Numbers: 5-12-26-36-34-45

Some important decisions to be made concerning your future security, including your career aspects. Some very good opportunities coming you’re way very soon.

LIBRA (September 24- October 23)

Lucky Colour: Peach

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 8-9-5-2 Lotto Numbers: 8-15-42-20-32-11

A much better mood is prevailing and friends could surprise you in a happy way. Now is the time in which you should be able to gain most of the things that have been on your mind.

SCORPIO (October 24- November 22)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 2-6-9-4 Lotto Numbers: 1-12-26-36-34-40

Very irritating aspects operating and your patience is put to the test. Try to take it all in good humour and it will become less frustrating. There is some good luck through a partner.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23- December 20)

Lucky Colour: Yellow

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 5-6-4-2 Lotto Numbers: 5-12-32-26-9-44

Not the time to trust anyone with your secrets; they could use them against you at a later date. Business will not mix with pleasure or family matters even during this period; keep them separate.

CAPRICORN (December 21- January 19)

Lucky Colour: White

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 5-6-3-2 Lotto Numbers: 5-12-26-30-36-33

People seem to be expecting more for you and your time will be very much taken up by the demands of others. If planning to travel, you must be rather ruthless in your demands to get what you want.

AQUARIUS (January 20- February 19)

Lucky Colour: Violet

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 1-3-2-5

Lotto Numbers: 1-15-23-30-6-44

You might not be in agreement with loved ones about an important issue. Do not let it get too big to handle. There are more demands on your time and your ability.

PISCES (February 20- March 20)

Lucky Colour: Cream Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 2-3-6-5

Lotto Numbers: 2-13-5-6-11-28

This is a period for practical considerations when making plans and getting your ideas through. Good will and assistance from higher up should make things much easier to handle.

By Calum Haygarth Landscape Architect & Horticultural Consultant

“And so this is Christmas, and what have we done?… I think it’s a case of what haven’t we done. Another bumper year for the entire nursery with online sales going through the roof especially to New South Wales and Victoria but we are proud of what we have achieved in servicing these customers needs with plants throughout their numerous lockdowns and hopefully bringing a bit of brightness to their gardens and lives. There are numerous health benefits of gardening and this has been experienced across the nation so it’s good to know more and more people have dabbled in and around the homes with budding green thumbs and the return to the new normality has come just in time for spring.

This will be my last In The Garden segment for 2022. Gosh, what a year to reflect on again and it has certainly come around rather too fast for my liking and everyone’s with all the dramas. That said I think the consensus is that we are going to have a bumper Christmas with everyone being allowed to be together and enjoying themselves (fingers crossed) also it has been uplifting for our Victorian shoppers to once again get their Gardenarium fix which has been a joy to see. With the late/ non-existent Spring, and patchy weather ever since, I don’t think the plants know what to do either. With not too many sleeps left to Christmas it’s time to head down to Gardenarium for their 25–70% off pre-Christmas sale. You can still layby now for Christmas and leave picking up until Christmas Eve if you wish, especially plants and living Christmas trees.

The Old Potting Shed Gift shop within Gardenarium is bursting at the seams with a new collection of glazed indoor pots, sensational garden tools from Burgon and Ball in the UK, wall art of every kind for indoors and out, statues, hanging pots, the list goes on. The farmyard and corrals are full again with an array of pigs, sheep, cows and chooks even meerkats.

The Limestone Coast Advanced Trees part of the company is also as full as ever, even with the strange weather, and we have up to 50% off trees until Christmas Eve, including mop tops and weeping cherries.

Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without hydrangeas and we

have masses of stunning mature plants in all colours, ranging from intense blue, to purple, red, pinks and whites, as well as the new burgundy foliage varieties adding another dimension to the garden and the beautiful new double pink called Popcorn. These are ideal indoors for a short time, as decorations to your outside entertaining areas or as a Christmas gift.

This year we have increased the numbers of fruit trees in most categories, especially dwarf and semi-dwarf which now outsell full sized trees and these are an ideal gift for anyone wishing to start a new orchard - all 25 % off in the pre-Christmas sale. Cherries and blueberries are popular eating choices over Christmas as well as our recently released dwarf mulberry and, of course, raspberries.

Wollemi Pines are back again after a long drought and are ideal to decorate for Christmas trees for a short time indoors, for outdoors on the patio or to plant in the garden as a living fossil. Along with Norfolk Island Pines, Norway Spruce and Canadian Spuce in our annual range of live Christmas trees which has had two new varieties added for 2022 and available in several sizes.

The gift shop is bursting with ideas for non-gardeners also, with outdoor clocks, china jardinières and pots, terrariums, some intricately made garden art in metal made out of all sorts of old tools and welded together garden art pieces giving unique and interesting one offs like a laser cut Corten steel rusted garden art (see facing page) and windspinners.

Gardenarium is well known for its range of birdhouses and feeders and this year is no exception with three new ranges on offer, some colourful metal and timber

course, birdbaths, all of which were too many to put on our website www,gardenarium.com.au so you will need to call in and have a look.

Our range of outdoor furniture has been added to this season with the introduction of ceramic outdoor dining tables in natural and grey wood look, along with an expansion to our teak outdoor table ranges with backless benches in two sizes, that are handmade with traditional construction that will last generations, these can also be used on their own in the garden.

Our very popular, heavy duty cast aluminium outdoor three piece settings have been popular with a whole new shipment finally after two years of no stock in three colours now available.

Many of the products we sell are from poor, underdeveloped countries and, in particular, the range of driftwood creations we have each year are from pieces of driftwood harvested from the beaches by local villagers in the typhoon hit areas of the Philippines.

Each village is allowed to harvest a certain amount of driftwood thrown up from the typhoons and craft them into the wonderful pieces we sell, from Christmas decorations to spheres, planters and decorative wreathes, and a brand new range of birdhouses in several styles, see website for photos.

I urge everyone to dig deep this Christmas by buying a piece of driftwood artwork or ornaments that will last forever.

Lastly our Coast to Coast Christmas decorations are all reduced beyond our normal discounted prices with beautiful wooden Steiner like elements in the mix and many Christmas tree decorations a little different from what you normally find.

Cast iron boot scrapers are finally back and Sloggers clogs and boots for both men and woman are all $10-$20 off with some up to 50%off and ideal for a Kris Kringle and for everyday wear in this current weather.

Managers and staff at Gardenarium & The Limestone Coast Group of Companies would like to take this opportunity to wish all our customers and readers a very Happy Christmas and relaxing New Year. We will be closing from 4.30pm Christmas Eve until January 7 for a well earned break with our families after what has been a crazy year for our online sales area of the business and here in the nursery and hope you can all wait until then to see us again. Happy Christmas.

with Sarah Kulkens

Shop local this Christmas

Chamber of Commerce backs spending money in our own backyard

Encouraging the Mount Gambier community to shop local has always been a focus of the Mount Gambier Chamber of Commerce and it has never been more important than in 2022 as the local business landscape continues to recover from the challenges of COVID.

As always, the Chamber of Commerce is spruiking the shop local message as passionately as any business owner and that is why the Mount Gambier Chamber of Commerce has been happy to work with Lifestyle1 to promote the wide variety of amazing businesses we have in Mount Gambier and to highlight the business owners, who work hard to provide our community with a great choice of product, not only at Christmas time but all year round.

With the return of the Mount Gambier Christmas Parade, the Mount Gambier City Council decorations adorning our streets, the nativity scene in place at the Cave Gardens, and local businesses also getting into the festive spirit with their stores draped in Yuletide themed displays, Christmas is on our doorstep. Christmas carols are filling the air and local retailers are looking to make your Christmas shopping enjoyable and successful.

The retail sector is the largest employer group in Mount Gambier, making it even more important to support our local businesses as not only do they provide employment for you and your neighbours, but they also provide support for our local schools, charities and sporting clubs.

Whether it is the Commercial Street precinct, the Mount Gambier Marketplace or Mount Gambier Central, Mount Gambier is blessed with a wide variety of stores and gift options and plenty of friendly, helpful staff to ensure you find the perfect gift for everyone this Christmas.

The Chamber of Commerce would also like to encourage anyone who can consider those less fortunate in our community. Christmas is generally a time for family and friends to gather, but it can also be a very lonely time for many, therefore they urge you to make a contribution to the Mayor’s Community Christmas Appeal or to one of the many charities available in our city. The Mount Gambier Chamber of Commerce thanks everyone for their support throughout 2022 and wish everyone a wonderful Christmas and a Happy and Safe New Year.

Merry Christmas

FROM THE TEAM

DEEP DRAWERS ARE THE STORAGE ANSWER

Forget about having to stoop and rummage through a cabinet for that colander/grater/lasagne dish. Pile everything neatly into drawers, instead. Dig deep when it comes to maxing out drawer storage with generous proportions that can neatly store cumbersome pots and pans, and keep countertops clutter-free.

Want to give a pet this Christmas. Give a leash, collar and/or picture of the dream then give yourself time to then plan the pet purchase. The reality of the Christmas season is that your house is chaotic, full of unsupervised food on coffee tables and countertops & unusual objects to chew and destroy. And, you and your family are overextended, exhausted and off of your normal routine. Christmas might be the worst possible time to bring a new pet into your house so it pays to wait.

5 Rosemont Place, Mount Gambier

NEW > FAMILY HOME IN A SUPERB LOCATION

This beautiful home has been designed for a growing family with the kids having access to their own private wing. There are four good sized bedrooms, the master with WIR & ensuite. The three other bedrooms all contain BIR’s. With three living zones, you’ll be spoilt for options. The second living area is the large open plan area, incorporating a study nook. The kitchen comes complete with dishwasher, 900mm stainless steel oven, cook top butlers pantry, perfect for entertaining with the kitchen overlooking the dining room whilst flowing out to the alfresco area. The kids wing has its own rumpus room all their bedrooms flow off this area. The main bathroom, toilet & laundry are centrally located.

NEW > BEAUTIFULLY RENOVATED – EXCELLENT SHEDDING

Prepare to be wowed by this amazing three bedroom stone home, beautifully renovated and ready to move and enjoy! Industrial chic vibe with timber style flooring, quality kitchen and on point bathrooms. Open plan kitchen/dining/lounge. S/c wood heater and r/c split system air con. Main bedroom with ensuite and BIR’s, other bedrooms with BIR. Loads of storage. Renovated, bathroom, laundry and toilet. Enclosed outdoor entertaining area with electric patio heaters and patio blinds. Low maintenance back yard. Pretty front gardens. Huge 6m x 12m shed with power and concrete floor, wood heater and plenty of additional off street parking.

RURAL RUNDOWN

Hamilton Market Report - SHEEP & LAMBS

Agents yarded 40,300 new seasons lambs at Hamilton last week with the overall quality very good with a majority of lambs presenting with freshness and more weight. There was however a percentage of the yarding, predominately the younger and immature lambs continuing to show dryness in the skin. A full field of buyers were present with all processors operating including strong interest in store lambs depending on type. The market was very strong for most weights being $10 to $15 per head dearer in places in comparison to last Mondays market.This included lambs back to the paddock which were dearer again. To suckers sold to $262. Light Lambs 12 to 16kgs sold from$90 to $135/head. light Trade lambs 18 to 22/kegs made from$117 to$180/ head to average between700 and 810 c/ kg cwt trade lambs22 to 26 kg made from&136 to $203/head to average between 730c and820c/kg cwt Heavy lambs over 26 kegs were making between740 and 790c/kg cwt driven by quality.

Mount Gambier Market Report - CATTLE

Numbers lifted as agents yarded 1072 head of liveweight and open auction cattle. These sold to a large field of trade and processor buyers along with feeder and restocker interest. Quality improved with weight and condition in most pens in a mixed market for price.Vealer steers eased 5c to 10c as the trade was active from 438c to 480c with similar heifers making from 410c to 470c/kg. Feeders operated from 432c to 480c on steers and on heifers from 405c to 445c with restocker support from 400c to 517c/kg over both sexes. Yearling steers to the trade made from 414c to 450c as heifers made from 400c to 455c/kg. Feeders sought steers from 290c to 471c and heifers to 378c with some restocker support to 438c/kg. Grown steers and bullocks sold to the trade from 355c to 422c as feeders were active from 375c to 470c/kg. Grown heifers to the trade returned from 350c to 428c with feeder support from 410c to 425c as manufacturing steers ranged from 280c to 348c/ kg. Heavy cows made from 312c to 351c to remain firm in price as lighter weights made from 260c to 304c/kg. Feeders operated from 274c to 333c as heavy bulls ranged from 350c to 390c/kg.

Naracoorte Market Report - CATTLE

Agents yarded 558 head at Naracoorte last week consisting of 332 trade cattle, 179 cows, 30 bulls and 17 open auction calves. The usual field of trade and processor buyers were active along with feeders and restockers. Quality was generally good as the market ranged from firm to a little easier in places. Yearling steers failed to attract the trade as most of these went to feed on from 500c to 582c with restockers active from 480 to 540c/kg. Yearling heifers sold to the trade from 450c to 530c/kg. Feeders were active from 505c to 560c with restockers purchasing from 460c to 626c/kg. Grown steers and the odd bullock made from 400c to 520c to the trade with feeders operating from 490c to 510c/kg. Grown heifers made from 410c to 500c to the trade with feeders active to 445c/kg. Manufacturing steers sold from 352c to 364c/kg. Heavy cows remained firm as they made from mostly 388c to 418c with a high of 440c/kg. Light weight types to the trade made from 340c to 380c as restockers sought supply from 348c to 400c/kg. Heavy bulls ranged from 334c to 398c, with lighter types to feed on making up to 492c/kg.

Naracoorte Market Report CATTLE

Numbers rose as agents yarded 808 head of liveweight and open auction cattle. These sold to a larger field of trade and processor buyers however not all of these were active over the offering. Quality was mixed with something to suit all orders with good demand from the buying group as the market sold from firm to dearer last week. Vealer numbers were small with steers reaching 466c and the few heifers 478c/ kg. Yearling steers to the trade made from 418c to 472c to lift 15c as similar heifers sold from 385c to 450c/kg. Feeders sought steers from 430c to 514c and heifers returned from 405c to 454c with some restocker activity on steers from 443c to 498c/kg. Grown steers and bullocks made from 390c to 426c to the trade with feeder support from 414c to 456c/ kg. Grown heifers to trade buyers ranged from 348c to 430c as feeders operated to 388c/kg. Heavy cows remained firm in price as they made from 318c to 358c with lighter trade types making from 293c to 319c as there was some PTIC cows returned to the paddock at up to 372c/ kg. Heavy bulls ranged from 360c to 396c with lightweights to feed on reaching 452c/kg.

Mount Gambier Market Report SHEEP & LAMBS

Numbers fell slightly as agents yarded 6512 lambs and 115 sheep to total 6627 head overall. These sold to an increased field of trade and processor buyers along with a number of active restocker orders. Quality continues to be mixed with something to suit all orders as the market bounced back to lift by $20 to $25/head. Light lambs to the trade made from $99 to $138 with light trade types making from $138 to $154/head. Restockers sourced lambs to grow on from $25 to $126/head. Tradeweight lambs made from $148 to $182 with a range of 760c to 800c covering most sales with the odd sale reaching up to 820c/kg cwt. Heavy lambs returned from $184 to $216 with the extra heavy pens mostly ranging from $223 to $247 with a high of $263/head being reached in an isolated sale. Light sheep made from $54 to $78 with heavier lots selling to $95/head. Hoggets ranged from $83 to $140 as rams sold to $55/head.

Six projects earn cash injection Community group windfall

The legacy of Lewis Court Home for the Aged continues into its eighth year with six organisations receiving an allocation of funds for projects next year.

Grants totalling more than $40,000 will enhance social inclusion, increase fitness and retain dignity while improving social connectedness for our older people.

The grants are the result of the establishment of the United Way Glenelg Lewis Court Fund made possible by the disbursement of funds from the sale of the Lewis Court Home for the Aged and serve to support older residents.

United Way Glenelg executie oficer Nicole Carr was delighted to see the legacy of Lewis Court play a fundamental role in improving the lives of older people.

“Older people have a wealth of skills and experiences and can continue to be active participants in the community,” Mrs Carr said.

“Sometimes additional support is required to ensure residents can lead active, healthy and productive lives.”

One of the recipients is Heywood Bowling Club. They have received $5000 for their Come and Try it Lawn Bowls program. The club will purchase bowls to allow visitors or beginners to participate in events without worrying about not owning bowls. They also plan on having three Come and Try Days over the

2022/2023 bowling season.

Sponsorship committee member Sherree Chaudhry would love to see the club increase its membership.

“We are afraid of the decline in members over the next ten years due to the age of our current members, then eventually be subjected to the closing of the bowling club,” she said.

“We currently have a membership base of around 56 full members and 15 social members.”

The program seeks to inspire all people, young, middle and old, to become involved in bowls.

“Bowls provide invaluable engagement with each other,” Ms Chaudhry said.

“It improves health and wellbeing for all persons through active exercise and mental health through social engagement and education.

“Local clubs or businesses within Heywood have taken the opportunity to use the club for staff bonding days and use of the club rooms for presentations/workshops etc.”

United Way Glenelg also continued with several of its projects, allocating 400 Winter and Christmas care packages to older residents in the past six months.

HAPPY RECIPIENTS: Heywood Bowling Club members Sheree Chaudhry and Darryl Moore were delighted with the donation.

The full list of funding recipients for 2023:

Days for Girls Portland $2336 • Making sustainable Feminine Hygiene Products

SWAMP $3970 • Two Rivers Gallery Upgrade Project

Portland RSL Memorial Bowling Club $4150 • Kyeema & Schools Support Equipment

Heywood Bowling Club $5000 • Come and Try Lawn Bowls

Elsa MacLeod Kindergarten $5000 • Where it all began...

Portland District Health $3850 • Singing Strong

United Way Glenelg $10,000 & $6000 • Winter Care Packages & Christmas Care Packages

NINE SA SEVEN SA TEN SA ABC SBS SBS VICELAND SBS MOVIES NITV ABC

“...older people have a wealth of skills and experiences and can continue to be active participants in the community ...” Nicole Carr (United Way Glenelg executive officer)

for over 85 years in South Australia and Victoria, having a turnover in excess of $1 billion. BMG are authorized Dealers for iconic truck brands; Kenworth, DAF and Hino providing sales, service and quality parts to our valued Customers.

The Role

Due to leadership growth, a rare management opportunity has emerged for an experienced and highly motivated Truck Sales Manager. As the successful candidate, you will be a hands-on leader of this award winning, high performing sales team which is revered by the heavy vehicle industr y. You will be charged with propelling this team into the future, whilst servicing our customers to the highest standard.

Key areas of responsibility:

• Provide direction and support to the sales team to achieve targets

• Identify objectives and strategies for sales growth and marketing of all brands

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES IN VEHICLE SALES

• Regularly review targets and results and implement appropriate action plans

• Manage vehicle inventory

Do you have an interest in vehicle sales?

• Monitor work in progress and propose annual forecasts and budgets

How about changing things up career wise?

• Create and develop strong working relationships with relevant Franchisor representatives.

• Manage key relationships with sub-dealers and key customers

• Develop new business opportunities in order to grow the business

Wanting more control of your income opportunities? We may have the perfect role for you!

• Provide direction and support to sales team to achieve sales objectives and targets

• Promote effective and regular communication to encourage team cohesion and to achieve desired outcomes

We are looking for some dynamic new team members to join our growing Car Sales Team.

Requirements / skills

Roles available include:

• Industry experience is essential

• Used Car Salesperson

• 5+ years in a Sales Manager or similar managerial role is essential

• New Cars Salesperson

• A driven leader with a strong commitment to building a positive team culture and engagement

• Car Sales Cadetship

• High-level communication, written, collaboration and delegation skills

As part of the position, you will experience:

• Ongoing specialist training and career development

• Self-driven and results orientated with a keen appreciation of what it takes to drive and motivate a sales team.

• A supportive management team

• Proven track record of leading teams and achieving budgets

• Employee perks and rewards

Benefits

As part of the CMV Group of companies, at BMG we are committed to attracting the best talent.

We offer:

If you are a highly motivated person with exceptional interpersonal and communication skills and have experience in customer service and sales, we would love to talk to you!

• A generous remuneration package

• Fully maintained company vehicle, phone and laptop

• Work with Australia’s market leading truck brand

Previous vehicle sales experience not a prerequisite but being passionate is essential.

• Corporate discounts on health and insurance programs

• Annual staff functions and employee rewards

How to Apply

Email your cover letter and resume to Human Resources: careers@barrymaney.com.au

Please email your cover letter and resume to careers@barrymaney.com.au

Confidential Enquiries are welcome on 0418 895 652

TRAINEESHIP FORWARDER OPERATOR

IMMEDIATE START AVAILABLE

Do you enjoy working outdoors, and with machinery?

The Forestry Industry in the Limestone Coast is the largest employer, and we are offering an entry position into this industry to start your career.

Moreland Holdings is a progressive family owned company located in Mount Gambier operating throughout the Green Triangle and South West Victoria regions. Due to increasing demand, we currently have a fulltime position available for a Learner Forwarder Operator. This will be undertaken as a Traineeship, including on the job and classroom training.

If you have an interest in the forestry industry then this is the job for you, all you need is a car licence and a positive attitude.

We take pride in our fleet and will provide modern and fully maintained machines. We offer excellent working conditions including ongoing industry training and above award wages.

To apply please send your resume to: MORELAND HOLDINGS reception@morelandholdings.com.au Any enquiries phone Office on 08 8725 0656

“A Prayer for Owen_”

Boandik says thanks to hard working volunteers Countless hours of help

Plus available from:

Allendale General Store

Beachport Newsagency

Carpenter Rocks General Store

“When

They are the words of Boandik volunteer coordinator Amanda Linnell (pictured above) as the aged care facility looked to shine a spotlight on their volunteers and thank them for another 12 months of commitment.

“Your great generosity has had a profound and lasting impact on Boandik,” Ms Linnell said.

“Your willingness to share both your time and your talent by volunteering with Boandik says a lot about you as human beings.

At non-profit organisations like Boandik, volunteers are critical to ensuring they continue to deliver their services to their communities and a small function was held to acknowledge that critical contribution that saw volunteers account for a combined 10,573 hours of time to Boandik.

While each person who chooses to provide their time freely makes a difference, there are several volunteers who have provided a remarkable amount of theirs at the non-profit.

Pat Rogers, Julie Lamming, Ela Knoll, Hilda Leamey, Mike Scutter and Kerry O’Meara Robbins each volunteered 500 hours of their time to Boandik this year.

A significant part of volunteers’ impact is on Boandik’s lifestyle activities, and the organisation’s lifestyle coordinators—Debra Brockie, Janine Norman, Cindy Crozier, and Jo Ratsch (pictured inset)—came together to thank their volunteers.

“While I know that you choose to volunteer selflessly and without expectation of being recognised or rewarded, today I wish to do just that: I want to let you know just how much your dedication is appreciated and to make sure that everyone at Boandik is grateful to each of you,” Ms Linnell said.

Boandik chief executive officer Declan Moore said volunteers add much to the life of Boandik.

“We are deeply grateful for their service and their greatest gifts to residents, family members and staff—their friendship.”

Portland & Mount Gambier

Join

With its gold-rush history long in the past, Stone Town has seen better days. And it’s now in the headlines for all the wrong reasons.

When Senior Sergeant Mark Ariti took a posting in his hometown he didn’t anticipate three teenagers stumbling upon a body in the dense Stone Town bushland. Property developer Aiden Sleeth is found

with a bullet to the back of the head and any evidence has been washed away in the perpetual storm. However, Sleeth’s gruesome murder is overshadowed by a mystery consuming the entire nation: the disappearance of Detective Sergeant Natalie Whitsed Margaret Hickey is a playwright and award-winning author from Beechworth, Victoria. Her short stories have been published in Meanjin, Island magazine, Westerly and The Big Issue and have won and been shortlisted for many prizes.

She holds a PhD in Creative Writing and works as a senior English teacher.

Her previous novel Cutters End was shortlisted for Australia’s premiere crime prize, the Ned Kelly Debut Crime award and won the BAD Crime DANGER award, for best crime novel using Australia as a setting.

Portland Library Saturday, December 17 2–3pm

Mount Gambier Library Sunday, December 18 11am FREE events

Casterton Foodwork

Coleraine IGA

Coonawarra General Store

Dartmoor General Store

Donovans

Glencoe General Store

Hamilton Coles

Hamilton Safeway

Heywood IGA

Kalangadoo General Store

Kingston IGA Supermarket

Lucindale General Store

Millicent Foodland

Millicent IGA

Millicent Newsagency

Millicent Woolworths

Mt Gambier Aust. Post Central

Mt Gambier Australia Post East

Mt Gambier Australia Post West

Mt Gambier Badenochs

Mt Gambier Bay Blue Cafe

Mt Gambier BP - O’Leary Rd

Mt Gambier BP One Stop

Mt Gambier BP Throughway

Mt Gambier BP West

Mt Gambier Bryant Bakery

Mt Gambier Chapmans News

Mt Gambier Coles Express

Mt Gambier Conroe

Mt Gambier Endeavour

Mt Gambier Eureka Retirement

Mt Gambier Fosters Newsagency

Mt Gambier Foxys Deli

Mt Gambier Gambier West Deli

Mt Gambier Hallmont Estate

Mt Gambier Hospital Kiosk

Mt Gambier Jubilee Service

Mt Gambier KD’s Deli

Mt Gambier Lennons

Mt Gambier Montebello IGA

Mt Gambier Perry’s Mobil

Mt Gambier Pick Ave Deli

Mt Gambier Rosaville Deli

Mt Gambier Swallow Drive

Mt Gambier The Roadhouse

Mt Gambier Woolworths

Nangwarry BP

Nangwarry General Store

Naracoorte Ampol

Naracoorte Foodland

Naracoorte Newsagency

Naracoorte Plaza Kiosk

Naracoorte Woolworths

Nelson Roadhouse

Penola Australia Post

Penola IGA

Penola Shell

Port MacDonnell General Store

Portland IGA

Portland Woolworths

Robe BJ’s Newsagency

Robe Foodland

South End General Store

Tantanoola Road House

Tarpeena Australia Post

As well as real estate agents and local businesses!

you volunteer, you are making a commitment to share that most precious of resources— your time—to make life better for those who are in need.”

“Your willingness to give selflessly to help others speaks to both your strength and the quality of your character.”

HELPING HAND: (Left) Richard Klieve & David Kennedy

Glenelg Libraries and Mount Gambier Library as award winning Australian author Margaret Hickey chats about her newest novel Stone Town.

MARGARET HICKEY AUTHOR EVENT •

Lopsided grand final rematch

Saturday saw the grand final rematch between Ssster sides Concordes United and Concordes White. Unlike the nail biting grandfinal however this one was fairly much one way traffic, with Hannah Taylor’s team giving her a fitting birthday present with a very strong performance.

United batted first, with Taylor herself hitting a nice piece into right field that brought Dana Jones home for the first run. White went into bat, but with a three up three down inning with Codie Jackway on the mound pitching, United we’re back into bat quick smart. The batting from the United line up was relentless and kept seeing them put runs onto the board including a 10 run innings.

Kylie Doll was a stand out for white in a tough match up, playing magnificently with 2 two base hits, whilst Linley Pollard was solid as always behind the plate.

Jackway, Jones and Montanna Millard were stand outs for their team with a few two and three base hits from them, with strong contributions from the rest of the lineup, in a full team performance. Sarah Thomson took three catches at short stop and was excellent in helping United defeat White, 20-2.

In the early game, Wanderers hit first and scored two runs with two out showing their class via Lily Clifford-Finch and Abbie Lovekin as runners scored followed by one of the two singles Leanne Little had for the day. Warriors rallied by putting the Wanderers field under pressure scoring three, two RBIs awarded to The Flash Erin Chaplin, who concurrently showed maturity and direction

to first time catcher Arrabelle Searle. Searle showed poised well beyond her years, talking The Flash through several Wanderer base runner threats, also catching Jarvo Queale napping at third when making a sharp play on a stealing Lovekin.

Searle backed up from some great hitting the previous week with another safe hit, swinging the bat hard. Not to be outdone were the Wanderers battery of Rej Smith and young gun Charlie Kaigg who shone with two safe hits, Smith one late along with experienced campaigners Fiona Finch, Tracey Anderson and Kim Key.

Warriors Elly Maidment took a great catch despite her glove being smaller than the softball, and Tash Vickers is starting to find her hitting and high fiving rhythm. Bec White continues to hit the ball hard up the middle, but will look to reduce her coach’s chance of stroke by tagging up on fly balls. Queale put down an early bunt in a team play, then showed her blinding leg speed later in the game to be what would end up the tying run. Warriors Linda Dodds smashed a ball to right where Wanderers Maddie Stevens took a great catch later in the game.

It came down to the last innings and the Saintly Jasmine Disselbach absorbed the pressure of the game, stepping up with two outs and legging out an infield single despite ball watching. Smith showed why she has been so good for so long striking out the last Warrior hitter to seal the split points with Warriors who were very pleased with their own improved performance despite their team mascot Gary the sausage dog being ejected from the game.

Central hold off undermanned Tigers in Naracoorte

Saturday afternoon saw Tigers and Central travel down the road to showcase a game at Naracoorte. In a game where Tigers were missing seven starters due to work commitments, it was a game that was penciled in as a potential Central drubbing. Tigers had different ideas and were the first to strike in the second inning with two runs crossing the plate and the young and unfamiliar faces of Tigers were up and about early. The game was continued to be played to a high level, and when Central turned a triple play the crowd were one their feet.

Again Central couldn’t hit the scoreboard, and Alex Reppin was in control on the hill. Central finally brought the game back on there terms but not before it was halted after a serious leg injury to Mitchell Cutting. The game at that point was on a knife edge and Central then brought three more scores to the plate to lead by three. Tigers bounced back again in the eighth

innings to score two more and close the gap to just one. Tigers had one last chance to even the game up but just couldn’t get the job done. Matt Thompson continuing his league best form with another three hits and a welcome return to Joel Ransom was great with two of his hits in his 99th club game for Tigers. The final score being five runs to four.

In the other game for Saturday afternoon it was Federals who picked up another win for the year after easily accounting for South in a sixteen time eight ball game.

RESULTS

Division 1 • Central 5 d Tigers 4; Federals 16 d South 8

Division 2 • South 17 d Federals 1; Tigers 4 drew with Millicent 4 Division 3 • Tigers 17 d Central Magpies 6; Central 16 d Federals 5

Under 15 • Central 12 d Tigers 7;

South 4 d Tigers 3

Under 13 Gold • Tigers 10 d Federals 2; Central 11 d South 3

Under 13 Blue • Central 6 d Tigers 2

Silverware handed out

Mount Gambier Golf Club ladies celebrate season

Last Wednesday 60 female golfers thoroughly enjoyed a 4 Person Ambrose to commence the Christmas celebrations for the day. The women complemented the festive occasion with very colourful attire.

The winners of the dayposted an unbelievable score of nett 19.7/8th played over nine holes. The winning ladies coped with having to wield a plastic kid’s putter, a left-handed kid’s driver (if one was right -handed and vice versa), having to hit skittles over on the 6th green and putting with a very heavy croquet mallet. Completely unfazed by the obstacles Linda Boylan, Kate McCormick, Maree Murray and Lyndal McInerney took out first place.

Seconnd place went to Di O’Donnell, Denise Harvey, Sue Szpory and Helen Heaver with another great score of 21.1/4, while third placing with n ett 23.5/8th was Di Norman, Carmel Aldersey, Andrea Pegler and Hope Bliss.

NTP on the Par 3, 8th hole went to golfer Hope Bliss and non-golfer Janet Stephens.

The most accurate drive to the rope spanning the middle of the 3rd fairway went to golfer Jill Johnson and to non-golfer Gail Lewis.

Life Member Isobel Phillips presented the Mount Gambier Golf Club Handicap Match Play to a very deserving golfer Lizzie Clements. Lorraine Bruhn, from Limestone Holdings, presented a worthy winner of the Olympic Trophy to Janina Morrison.

After the nine holes the ladies were treated to a two course luncheon, prepared by President Kathy Ewer and helpers. A Mannequin Parade and funny skit was enjoyed by everyone.

This week’s event will be a Stableford – Ham Day sponsored by Jeannette Braun and this will be the last game of the season and the Ladies Committee will take a well earned six weeks off and club professional John Martinwill be conducting a Stableford competition.

DECEMBER 10 RESULTS:

Fourteen ladies contested a par round and in first position was Leanne Hunt (handicap 17) recording square to the card.

Seconnd placing was Marie Douglas (handicap 23) just behind Hunt by one shot and registered

Pennant bowls results

one down. There were four players on one down and allocated to third placing went to long serving member Heather Chapman (handicap 31).

HANDICAP MATCHPLAY WINNER: (Above top) Life member Isobel Phillips (left) presents winner Lizzie Clements

AMBROSE WINNERS: (Above centre) Lyndal McInerney, Maree Murray, Kate McCormick & Linda Boylan

OLYMPIC TROPHY WINNER: (Above bottom) Sponsor Lorraine Bruhn & winner Janina Morrison

Nankivell & Lawrie take the win at Robe

Social bowls Thursday members played 2x10 ends of 2-4-2 at the Robe Bowling Club. There were four two game winners - Harold Manton and Vic Dawson scored 50 points, Paul Truelove and Stephen Kennett scored 51 points, Pat Lynch and Jim Gray were runner up on a countback 54pts+19 and Rob Lawrie and Dean Nankivell were winners on 54pts+20. Raffle winners were Robbie Dahler and Barry Bennett. The club’s mixed pairs championship will be played on Wednesday.

Federal MP tries newly opened putt putt course

Tony Pasin has teed off at the Blue Lake Putt Putt to celebrate the completion and opening of the new Limestone Coast attraction.

The project received $170,000 in funding from the Coalition Government’s Building Better Regions last year and Mr Pasin said it was fantastic to see the project completed after just nine months of construction.

“The Limestone Coast is a tourism destination for domestic and international visitors and the investment into this attraction is an investment in the region and its future,” Mr Pasin said.

“It’s fantastic example of how the Coalition Government’s Building Better Regions Fund has delivered for regional communities.

The 18-hole course has opened in time for peak tourism season and has already attracted 500 bookings for December.

Mr Pasin said it was a fantastic addition to the Crater Lakes area of Mount Gambier and would boost the activity offering to the Limestone Coast community.

“Not only is this boosting the tourism offering but is a great asset for the local community. It’s contributing to making the Limestone Coast an even better place to live, work and raise a family,” Mr Pasin said.

Teams earn grand final berth

The Mount Gambier Table Tennis Spring Season wrapped up last week, with the top two teams in each grade earning the right to play off in in this week’s finals.

Leigh Barry continued his dominance in the A Grade, going undefeated in the final two rounds, including a mighty one-sided victory over fellow heavyweight Travis Sweet in week six. Barry’s Macca Pacca team accounted for Goin’ Rowan in emphatic style in the final round, by 10 rubbers to 2. Highlights of the contest included Macca Pacca player Katrina McPhee’s marathon five-game victory over Justin Hutchesson. McPhee looked to have a stranglehold on the encounter when she held a two-game lead, but an inspired Hutchesson somehow manage to turn the tide, securing the next two games to push it to a decider. McPhee started strongly in the fifth, gaining an early break as Hutchesson made uncharacteristic unforced errors. The Goin’ Rowan player settled and regained his composure, but McPhee managed to keep him at arm’s length, eventually prevailing 11 points to 9. McPhee and Kevin Patzel also kept their singles sheets intact on the night for the victors. The other A Grade match of the round was also a lopsided affair as Benz swept aside Sirinat Sweet’s Sod’s team by 10 rubbers to 2. Benz player Alex McGregor’s battle with Caleb Bachmann was the highlight, McGregor also holding a twogame lead before his opponent was able to claw his way back to a decider. McGregor dominated the fifth however, closing it out comfortably by 11 points to 4. Andrew Telford’s Outer Limits had a strong win over Eion McIlduff’s Falcons in their B Grade encounter, Hailee Barnes, Alastair Earl and Peter McKenzie all keeping clean sheets for the victors in their 10-2 rout. Nudee Cook performed gallantly for Falcons, pushing Earl and McKenzie both to five games in their rubbers. The second of the B Grade matches was a closer affair, strong performances from Tim Moss and Jedda Hardcastle weren’t enough to help Wanderers overcome Rayelene Hutchesson’s Ray Ban outfit, Cameron Beal leading the way to a 7-5 win.

In what may become a traditional next generation rivalry between two exciting newcomers, New Experience’s Ezekiel Coutts exacted revenge over Mac Attack player Caitlin Barry in their C Grade

battle this week. Unfortunately for Barry, she just made too many unforced errors which Coutts was able to capitalise on, both players still developing their skills and showing what is to come in the years ahead. Chris McGregor and Nathaniel Harris-Jones starred for New Experience, both keeping their singles records on the night intact. Sheryl Holliday had the chance to send level the match and send it to a countback when she faced up to McGregor in the last rubber of the night, but McGregor was far too strong, easing past Holliday to ensure Mac Attack would prevail 8-6. In the last match of the regular season, Richard Horrigan kept his singles sheet clean to guide Ramjet past Richard Van Der Linde’s Vandals. Van Der Linde need to defeat Horrigan at the death to square up the score line and force a countback, and he started promisingly, racing to a 2-game lead. Horrigan somehow found a way to turn the tables as errors started to creep into Van Der Linde’s game. After dominating the third game, Horrigan carried his momentum into fourth and then the decider, powering to victory to give Ramjet the 7-5 win. Lenny Van Der Linde was the strongest performer for Vandals, also maintaining a perfect singles record on the night.

Mount Gambier Table Tennis Club is always welcoming of new players of all ages, experience, and capability. The Summer Season will commence on Wednesday, February 8, next year. Practice is held at 7pm on Monday nights, and competition is at 7pm on Wednesday nights at the Mount Gambier Showgrounds Hall. To register your interest, please contact the club at mtgtabletennis@gmail.com or find the club’s Facebook page, or just come along on a Monday night and speak to a friendly welcoming committee member.

Undefeated players:

A Grade: Ben Newman, Felix Owusu, Sanith Ghetia (Benz), Leigh Barry, Kevin Patzel, Katrina McPhee (Macca Pacca).

B Grade: Tim Moss, Jedda Hardcastle (Wanderers), Cameron Beal (Ray Ban), Hailee Barnes, Alastair Earl, Peter McKenzie (Outer Limits).

C Grade: Richard Horrigan (Ramjet), Lenny Van Der Linde (Vandals), Chris McGregor, Nathaniel Harris-Jones (Mac Attack).

MT GAMBIER

Member for Barker

By backing local projects like this, the Federal Coalition Government has delivered for the local economy and now and into the future.”

2-4-2 WINNERS: Deane Nankivell & Rob Lawrie

Pioneers sign another emerging talent

Women’s program continues to build a new look playing roster for the 2023 NBL1 season

The OneFortyOne Pioneers welcome Miela Goodchild as the latest exciting new signing for the 2023 NBL1 South Season.

Twenty-two-year-old Goodchild is another emerging star who played four seasons with Duke University in the US College competition. Goodchild has had a wonderful start to her career

representing Australia at Under 17, Under 18 and Under 19 and being highly awarded representing Duke University in the Atlantic Coast Conference with three years on the all ACC Honour Roll.

After returning to her home state of Queensland she played the final seven games of the NBL1 North season for Mackay Meteorettes

Whelan & Barnes take the win

Last week 24 players went out to play the game of 2-4-2 at the Millicent Bowls Club. Before going out players were reminded of some coming events including Tuesday’s Ladies Championship Pairs, starting at 10am as well as the Ladies and Men’s Championship Fours on Sunday.

Winning the 2-4-2 last week and taking home $24 each were Terry Barnes and Neil Whelan with a score of 34+23 shots up. Coming in second and winning the $5 bar voucher each were Eddie Hann and Jim Campbell with a score of 34+14. Other winning teams for the day were, Peter Hyland, Rod Gibbs 34+13. Steve Skeer, Peter Scanlon 32+11. Garth Baker, Bryan Roper 32+4 and John Eldridge, John Buhlmann 30+1.

2-4-2 WINNERS: (Above top) Neil Whelan & Terry Barnes

2-4-2 RUNNERS UP: (Above bottom) Jim Campbell & Eddie Hann

Windy conditions at the seaside

A windy day at the Bay didn’t deter 40 South East golf veterans, but slowed down the scoring at Port Mac Donnell. Vice captain John Kamp ran away with 37 points to record the day’s best score and he won First Division from Gordie Fleming on 33 and Geoff Cameron on 32. Second Division went to the local Neal Rowe with 33, and Glen Tilley counted out Lucky Lyndsay Copeman on 32. The ball rundown was to 24 or better, the Ross Orchard to Lindsay Storer and Doug Mac Pherson, and the NTPs to Bryon Coe and Colin Rex. The next outing is at Millicent, on December 12 , and is a free entry meeting, before an extended break until January 16 next year at Kingston.

Wild & windy conditions for Night Owls

Touches: Braydyn Reilly (Here 4 Beer) 3, Fay Richards ( max’s Four) 3. WINNERS: RED DIVISION: Grand HoteL (Jamie Vearing, Chris Vearing, Bill Mullan, Jim Taylor) defeated Jack Attack 17+9, Awesome Foursome 17+8, Untouchables 17+3, Rovers !^+10, with Birdies and Somerset Legends having a draw on 10 each.

BLUE DIVISION: The Pups (Sam Kent, Hamish Smith, Todd Craig, Luke Ferguson) defeated Somery Seniors 17+10, other winners Rotary 17+5, Lion Rams 15+4, Acky’s Owls 15+2, Bits & Pieces 10+3.

WHITE DIVISION: Here 4 Beer (Graham Reilly, Shane Reilly, Kath Reilly, Braydn Reilly) defeated Black Beetles 17+13, other winners were Scrappers 17+8, Boomers 16+2, X Factor 14+1.

RED DIVISION WINNERS: (Top right) Jim Taylor, Bill Mullan, Jamie Vearing & Chris Vearing

BLUE DIVISION WINNERS: (Centre left) Luke Ferguson, Hamish Smith, Sam Kent & Todd Craig

WHITE DIVISION WINNERS: (Bottom right) Shane Reilly, Braydn Reilly & Graham Reilly. Absen: Kath Reilly

Testing the new putt putt course

Christmas festivities at Blue Lake Golf Club celebrates three holes in one

It was a different version of the regular Wednesday golf competition for the women at the Blue Lake Golf Club testing their skills on the new addition at the club, the putt putt course recently installed by a dedicated team of workers and volunteers.

Three hole in ones were produced by Helen Myers, Lesley McPherson and Lyn Gill to great delight by the onlookers. Lots of laughs were echoed throughout

the

The Christmas lunch followed at long time sponsor Caffe

A stroke competition is to be played this Wednesday.

CELEBRATING THE FESTIVE SEASON: (Above)

TESTING THE NEW COURSE: (Bottom right) It was a different game of golf testing skills on the newly opened putt putt course

HOLE-IN-ONE: (Top right) Helen Myers, Lesley McPherson & Lyn

Mount Gambier RSL team takes out Millicent Bowling Club Ladies Invitational Fours

The day at the Millicent Bowls Club started at 9.30am, with 14 teams taking part in the Ladies Invitiational Fours with players coming from as far afield as Bordertown.

Players were asked to come with a Christmas themed outfit. Before starting the day players had the opportunity to win a prize by bowling to the ditch with the closest bowl to the ditch winning the prize. This was won by Liz Copping, from Penola, and Carol Miller, from Lucindale.

The best dressed teams for the Christmas theme went to Helen Lynch’s team from Robe and Ella Pietersma, from Millicent, for the best Christmas hat.

The competition consisted of 12 ends before a catered lunch and two games of 10 ends before afternoon tea.

Winners for the day was a team from Mount Gambier RSL, which

MT

Kingston, Helen Vawser, Tracey Willmott, Julie Clarke and Urai Jacobs.

WINNING TEAM: (Above left) Mount Gambier RSL: Joy Bilney, Karen Doman, Merna Whitehead & Jane Crowder

SECOND PLACED TEAM: (Above right) Beachport: Jill Preston, Anne Marie Goode, Lynette Smith, Pam Snook

THIRD PLACED TEAM: (Right) Kingston: Uria Jacobs, Julie Clarke, Tracey Willmott & Helen Vawser

game, with many anxious to have a return try to redeem themselves.

Belgiorno with a plentiful tapas menu and then it was time for a few fun activities and a powerpoint display of the 2022 compilation of golf photos to round out the day.

A very happy group of women at the Blue Lake Golf Club for their Christmas festivities day

Gill.

McIntyre gets the job done at Burrungule

High class shooting in most recent South East Field & Game event

ON TARGET IN THE FENNELL

FORESTRY 75 TARGET SPORTING CLAYS: (Top row from left)

Gambier Shooting Supplies High Gun winner Scott McIntyre (right) with president Charles Wallis and AA Grade: Mark Fabris, Jeremy Kent & Michael Brilley; (second row from left) A Grade: Chris VonStanke Jnr, Simon Withers & Ken Atkin; B Grade; Darren Beyer & Al Scheidl and C Grade: Scott Fleming & Michael Gates; (third row from left) Seniors: Chris Wright, Greg Kessagian & Leigh Dunn; Veterans: Chris VonStanke Snr, Ernie Scheidl & Neville Kent and Ladies: Nicola Dunn. Bernie Peters & Sonia Vanderhorst and (bottom row from left) Juniors: Kody Vanderhorst, Brodie VonStanke-Dowie, Declan Wright; Sub Juniors: Kain Ashby, Jack Dyson & Noah VonStanke-Dowie; Sage/Martiensen OTG Team: Jeremy Kent, Kody Vanderhorst, Sponsor Richard Sage & Greg Kessagian and (bottom right) Sage/Martiensen Handicap Team: Bernie Peters, Nicola Dunn, Sponsor Richard Sage & Sonia Vanderhorst

The Fennell Forestry 75 Target Sporting Clays event at Burrungule Park was shot in near perfect conditions, apar from an early shower. Eighty-two competitors nominated to tackle the course set up by Ken Atkin and his hard working crew. Scott McIntyre 69/75 took out the Gambier Shooting Supplies High Gun. The Sage/Martiensen Memorial Team Shoot, sponsored by Richard Sage, was won (OTG) Off The Gun Team Winners: Jeremy Kent, Kody Vanderhorst & Greg Kessagian Handicap Team Winners: Bernie Peters, Nicola Dunn, Sonia Vanderhorst & Delia O`Daniel

Champion of Champions Shoot off at 9am with the following competitors: Jamie Dunn, Jeremy Kent, Leigh Dunn, Daniel Falco, Ron Rhook & Scott McIntyre

Khanacross marks end of 2022 season

Mount Gambier Showgrounds host final event of the season

Closing off the competition year, the Limestone Coast Off Road Club (LCORC) hosted a round of the McPherson Mechanical Khanacross Series being part of the South Eastern Automobile Club’s 2022 year.

Round 5, the last round of the series, was setup at the Mount Gambier Showgrounds, utilising the bitumen and hot mix areas that the sideshows are normally set up for the annual show.

Director of the Day Paul (Keg) Height, set out a reasonably straight forward track to get the attention of the 19 eager competitors and it did just that.

Fastest for Test 1, Ken Trimnell got straight into action in the Black Subaru WRX to be twoseconds clear of Bruce Hamilton and Damien Wilson, with Curtis Boyd another second back followed by Josh Munn, Lindsay Beare, Dion Becker, Sarah Coates, Bruno Vadori and Kyle Johnson.

Second attempt at this layout, Damien Wilson found a better line and pulled out nearly two seconds from his first round time to edge out Josh Munn, also some three seconds quicker on this run. Ken Trimnell had to settle for 3rd spot, being four tenths slower on the second go.

Bruce Hamilton bettered his first run time as well by a second, but filled the fourth spot on this round, followed by Dion Becker

also quicker by two seconds in fifth, Curtis Boyd next on a similar time with Geoff Wilson a second behind, picking up four seconds from his first attempt, Lindsay Beare eighth, Bruno Vadori ninth and David Coombe rounding out the top 10.

As is normal with khanacross, the test is run both ways before any changes are made, so reverse Layout 1 was the next test to be tackled.

Ken Trimnell took to the layout and set the pace for this run from Damien Wilson, Bruce Hamilton, Geoff Wilson, Curtis Boyd, Dion Becker, Bruno Vadori, Lindsay Beare, Justin Devlin and Sarah Coates.

With an almost identical time, Trimnell again set the pace from Damien Wilson, Joshua Munn, Dion Becker, Geoff Wilson, Curtis Boyd, Bruno Vadori, Lindsay Beare, Justin Devlin and Kyle Johnson.

Minor variation changed the layout and Trimnell again set the pace from Damien Wilson, Bruce Hamilton, Geoff Wilson, Curtis Boyd, Kyle Johnson, Lindsay Beare, Justin Devlin, Max Viitanen and Sarah Coates.

Second attempt on this layout, Joshua Munn set the pace from Damien Wilson, Dion Becker, David Coombe, Geoff Wilson, Curtis Boyd, Kyle Johnson, Max Viitanen, Bob Byham and Sarah Coates. Reverse the direction and Ken

Trimnell set the pace, again, from Damien Wilson, Bruce Hamilton, Curtis Boyd, Dion Becker, Geoff Wilson, Joshua Munn, Kyle Johnson, David Coombe and David Byham.

Same layout, second pass, Joshua Munn took the pole from Damien Wilson by less than opne tenth of a second, Curtis Boyd, Dion Becker, David Coombe, Geoff Wilson, Kyle Johnson, Lindsay Beare, Bruno Vadori and Zachary Byham rounding out the top 10. After a lunch break, the director tightened up the course with some clever cone placements and after a drive around by all the competitors, Ken Trimnell set the pace from Damien Wilson, Joshua Munn, Curtis Boyd, Bruce Hamilton, Dion Becker, Geoff Wilson, Justin Devlin, Kyle Johnson and Lindsay Beare.

Second attempt and Trimnell again the quickest from Damien Wilson by one tenth of a second followed by Curtis Boyd, Dion Becker, Geoff Wilson, David Coombe, Justin Devlin, Kyle Johnson and David Byham 10th. Reverse this course and Damien Wilson found the pace to get fastest time from Trimnell, Dion Becker, Joshua Munn, Bruce Hamilton, Curtis Boyd, Geoff Wilson, Lindsay Beare, Kyle Johnson and Justin Devlin.

Same test, second pass, Trimnell got the top spot from Josh Munn, Bruce Hamilton, Geoff Wilson, David Coombe, Curtis Boyd, Kyle Johnson, Lindsay Beare, Zachary

Byham and Bruno Vadori.

Last test, minor changes made by the director and another drive through for the drivers to know where to go, Bruce Hamilton set the pace for this one from Damien Wilson, Dion Becker, Joshua Munn, David Coombe, Curtis Boyd, Justin Devlin, Bruno Vadori, David Byham and Lindsay Beare.

Repeat this drive and Damien Wilson found a better line to get the fastest time from Bruce Hamilton, Joshua Munn, David Coombe, Geoff Wilson, Lindsay Beare, Sarah Coates, Kyle Johnson, Bob Byham and Newby, Harrison Bliss getting home in 10th spot.

When all the scores have been listed for the day’s outings the good runs and the bad runs, where penalties for Wrong Direction (WD) not stopping in the finish garage (WD) hitting track markers – five seconds per marker – change the

finishing positions somewhat.

OUTRIGHT POSITIONS:

Damien Wilson: 1st Total: 449.96

Joshua Munn: 2nd Total: 466.32

Geoffrey Wilson: 3rd Total:479.62

Curtis Boyd: 4th Total: 479.80

Dion Becker: 5th Total: 481.14

Ken Trimnell: 6th Total: 482.11

Bruce Hamilton: 7th Total: 484.64

Kyle Johnson: 8th Total: 489.76

Lindsay Beare: 9th Total: 490.38

David Coombe: 10th Total: 499.30

CLASS SCORES:

Class B: Curtis Boyd

Class C: Damien Wilson

Class E: Geoff Wilson

Class F: Ken Trimnell

Class Junior: Kyle Johnson

Class Ladies: Sarah Coates

With this event completed, the South Eastern Automobile Club activities are now complete for 2022. Presentation Dinner and awards will be at a venue to be advised, late January.

The 2023 calendar is being finalised, with the first event being the popular Twin Peaks Hill Climb at Port MacDonnell in early February.

As always, check the club website seacsa.com for details of the competition year.

KAHANCROSS ACTION: (Above)

Damien Wilson (below from left) Josh Munn & Sarah Coates.

MT GAMBIER

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DARREN ARCHIBLAD (TURN8 PHOTOGRAPHY)

Photo courtesy of Ray Ritter

Photo courtesy of Ray Ritter

Photo courtesy of Ray Ritter