DECEMBER 3, 2019 \ STARWEEKLY.COM.AU AU
COUNTDOWN C OUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS See page 14
NEWS + SPORT + PROPERTY GUIDE
Time to Mo up After a month of raising awareness and funds for Movember, and some dubious facial hair, Arnolds Creek Primary School has again made its mark. The school has taken part in Movember for five years, with teachers growing mos, or taking on a physical challenge for the month, to raise the issue of men’s health in the community. School teacher Ben Velden said it was important to spread the Movember message. “I think as a school and a community it’s something that is pretty prominent right now,” Mr Velden said. “Things like suicide, mental health, prostate cancer, all those things are quite high in society and things that Movember is working to reduce. “We’ve raised awareness as much as we can, and then any money we can get on top of that is fantastic as well.” The school received 600 fake mos from Taco Bill Melton to use in its final assembly of the month, and is hoping to match last year’s fundraising, which netted $5000. “We’re always talking with the kids about mindfulness and positive coping skills, and heavily promoting that it is OK to talk about your feelings,” Mr Velden said. Ewen McRae
Principal Frank Pawlowicz and pupils. (Shawn Smits). 200733_02
An emaciated American bulldog that was found tied to a tree below a bridge in Diggers Rest recently is on the improve, and the hunt is now on for its owner. Bella, was found by a member of the public on November 17 in a poor condition, suffering significant injuries that appear to be inflicted maliciously. She was taken to an emergency vet where she recieved a number of blood transfusions and is now in recovery. RSPCA Victoria inspector team leader Karen Collier said it was an horrific act of cruelty and
Bella was lucky to be alive. “We found Bella near Jackson’s Creek behind a small hill, nestled in bushes littered with garbage and debris. It’s a miracle she was found at all,” Ms Collier said. “She’s clearly suffered abuse and has been treated in a way no animal deserves. But despite the immense trauma she has been through she’s an extremely sweet, good-natured dog. Far too forgiving considering her experience. “After several blood transfusions, Bella’s blood cell count is slowly improving and her condition is stable. Vets will continue to monitor her neck wound and blood work to ensure she receives plenty of care.”
Bella was located near Jackson’s Creek, underneath the Holden Bridge off Bulla-Diggers Rest Road in Diggers Rest. The RSPCA say Bella was most likely left there between November 8 and 17, but more likely between November 15 and 17. They are appealing for anyone with information to come forward. “We are asking anyone who recognises Bella or has information about this incident to make a report and please come forward to help us identify the person or persons responsible for this act of cruelty,” an spokesperson said. Anyone with information can make a report by calling 9224 2222 or visit rspcavic.org
BELLA
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By Ewen McRae
(Supplied)
Dog cruelty case probed