RACING IN THE RAIN: Wet weather on Saturday affected many of the region’s sports and events, but it didn’t stop Lewis Kucina and Ethan Turnbull enjoying the karting at Dooen.
Wimmera Kart Racing Club hosted round five of the Victorian Country Series, which provided a full day of action. More pictures, page 47. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER
BY LAUREN HENRY
Expenditure on projects, traffic matters, youth advocacy and attendance at council meetings were hot topics at a forum for Horsham council candidates on Monday night.
The public had a chance to hear directly from 14 of the 15 candidates at the forum, hosted by The Weekly Advertiser, 3WM and MIXX FM.
The forum attracted about 50 people to Coughlin Park Community Centre, while hundreds tuned in via a Facebook page stream.
Candidates were allocated two minutes each to outline their background
and reasons for standing for council, followed by questions from the public, and finishing with a one-minute final pitch from each candidate.
All candidates, except Les Power who was unavailable, were present at the forum, with each giving an insight into their views about past council decisions and its future direction.
The forum also gave the public an opportunity to hear from two candidates who will be elected councillors after two ward elections were uncontested.
Rebecca Sluggett, Kalimna, and Brian Klowss, Wyn Wyn, will be officially sworn in as councillors after
results for all wards are officially declared on November 15.
Voters will begin receiving ballot packs in the post this week, with voting to close on October 25.
Mr Klowss, a broadacre sheep and cropping farmer, outlined his extensive experience on committees of community groups.
“I feel this has given me a lot of experience to step into this role. I’d like to see councillors getting back into the community, especially sitting in on community and reference groups, and ensure the information is returning back to council correctly,” he said.
Mr Klowss said rural roads and an
equitable rating system that was fair for the whole community were his priorities.
“It should be mandatory that we encourage the agricultural sector because that’s the lifeblood of Horsham,” he said.
Mrs Sluggett said she hoped to achieve improved community engagement, sensible and sustainable budgets, and planning schemes and project plans that reflected community sentiment.
“I look forward to doing my part in building a strong team, with any of the candidates that you elect,” she said.
All candidates declared they were
not a member of a political party, and answered further questions about money being spent on other areas of the municipality rather than the riverfront.
May Park candidate Cameron McDonald advised attendees to read the council’s 2023-24 budget.
“You will be equally as horrified as I am – I’m going through it line by line and they started last year with $6-million up and now they’re $5-million in the red, and that’s looking like going a further $6-million next year and up to $20-million in four year’s time – in the red,” he said.
Continued page 3
Bright and cheery violas, snapdragons and poppies are coming into full bloom in central Horsham thanks to some well-planned seasonal plantings by Horsham Rural City Council’s parks and gardens team.
Streetscapes and botanic team leader Ryan Johnstone said his crew had been working as hard as ever this year to keep public gardens looking their best.
“We know people appreciate seeing lots of colour at this time of the year,” Mr Johnstone said.
“Our team is very committed to ensuring the gardens always look their best and tries to mix things up by planting a diversity of plants and flowers for the gardens.”
Mr Johnstone said the annual beds were mostly at their best during October.
“The botanic gardens in general are looking good as we have the Spring Garden Festival coming up this weekend,” he said.
“Some of the annuals in the gardens are reaching their peak, such as the violas and the snapdragons.
“The same can be said about the city centre, with annuals such as the snapdragons, cineraria and primula in full flower.
“The Nature Play Park and riverfront are also looking good,
with the plants filling the garden beds,” Mr Johnstone said.
“Our main focus right now from a maintenance perspective is weed control and improving our irrigation systems ahead of what is likely to be a dry summer.
The efforts of the parks and gardens staff are a part of Council’s ongoing commitment to the continual beautification of parks, gardens and open spaces across the municipality.
In response to community feedback, Council has installed a new glass collection point at Clear Lake.
The initiative comes after residents at July’s Clear Lake Community Conversation requested a more convenient way to recycle glass.
The collection point features seven wheelie bins placed on a concrete slab.
While urban residents have their purple kerbside bins collected monthly, rural residents deposit glass at their nearest transfer station or designated collection point free of charge.
Once collected, the glass is sent to Yarriambiack Shire Council to be crushed.
The glass is repurposed for various projects such as mixing with road base or as an alternative to sand. This method has already been successfully trialed in footpath projects in Stewart Street in Horsham.
Under the previous two-bin system, about 30 per cent of glass placed in the yellow mixed recycling bin could not be recovered due to breakage, which also contaminated other recyclable materials.
Council’s operations team is currently in the Kalkee area, wrapping up its final gravel road resheeting works for the season.
Recent weeks have seen Motts Road, Finlaysons Road, and Hermans Road resheeted.
Winter and spring are the most suitable times for gravel maintenance as wet weather helps reduce the amount of dust and stone product lost due to dryness.
With the weather turning drier and hotter, the team is shifting its focus to the reconstruction and resurfacing of sealed roads.
North East Wonwondah Road, Dimboola–Minyip 5 Chain Road and Polkemett Road are locations where major projects are resuming after the winter break.
The work involves widening the pavement to 6.2 metres and funding contributions come from the federal government’s Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program.
Trucks and farm machinery continue to gradually increase in size and maintaining and upgrading rural roads and bridges is a high priority for HRCC.
Many of our council-managed roads, especially those connecting state government-managed highways, need to be upgraded to meet the demands of B-doubles and other heavy machinery.
council@hrcc.vic.gov.au | Web: www.hrcc.vic.gov.au
25-010 SUPPLY OF FUEL (DIESEL, ADBLUE AND UNLEADED PETROL) Closes Friday 18 October 25-009
SUPPLY OF AGGREGATES, PRECOATED AGGREGATES, CRUSHED ROCKS, GRAVEL AND SAND Closes Wednesday 16 October
tender, EOI and RFQ details at hrcc.vic.gov.au
At the close of nominations, the Kalimna and Wyn Wyn wards had the same number of candidates as vacancies for this election.
As a result, the candidates have been elected unopposed.
Voters enrolled in the Kalimna and Wyn Wyn wards will not get a ballot pack in the mail this October.
If you don't know which ward you are enrolled to vote in, you can check the map on the HRCC website or with the QR code.
Council has started its annual roadside slashing program, with crews at work in the northern parts of the municipality where pastures have dried out.
The roadside slashing program, conducted by HRCC’s operations team, typically begins in spring and is completed by December.
The process starts in the drier northern areas before moving to the southern parts of the municipality.
This strategic approach ensures that the grass is cut only once, aligning with the grass curing process to minimise costs for both Council and the community.
This season has been much drier than recent years, allowing for early season spraying, which has helped HRCC prevent growth and manage vegetation more effectively.
Residents are encouraged to contribute by maintaining the nature strips in front of their properties.
Council reminds everyone to drive carefully around slashing crews and to give them a friendly wave as they work to keep the community safe and tidy.
The roadside slashing program ensures the municipality is well prepared for summer and the fire season.
T
BY LAUREN HENRY
he preferred easement of the VNI West transmission line project will be released to the public later this month, after firstly notifying affected landowners.
The Victoria to New South Wales Interconnector project proposes a high-capacity double-circuit overhead transmission line that will cut across agricultural land, forming a conduit between the Western Renewables Link project at Bulgana, east of Stawell, to New South Wales.
TCV has narrowed the draft corridor to a preferred easement of 70 metres along most of the route, subject to the Environment Effects Statement.
TCV’s landholder liaisons have begun contacting people within the
From page 1
When asked about the roundabouts and wombat crossings in Firebrace Street, Green Park candidate Dean O’Loughlin said it was an example of a lack of community consultation.
“I don’t think council has a place to be righteous and just make decisions ... this is another example where we need to be working with community, and councillors and the operations need to work hand-in-hand,” he said.
Fellow Green Park candidate Brian Basham said there was no need for the wombat crossings in Firebrace Street.
“There is no data to support it – I went through the TAC data, all the traffic data and local police data, and there’s no call for those wombat crossings to be placed there or anywhere in our city,” he said.
When asked about council’s role in youth advocacy, Pine Lake candidate Michael Bond said he was ‘more than passionate’ about the issue.
“We need to get onto mental health because it’s ever-evolving and sadly an increasing issue with isolation, especially in rural areas. Council needs to get stuck into the relevant authorities and enter into partnerships – there is a lot we can do in this space and we really need to do it,” he said.
Fellow Pine Lake candidate Ian Ross said council needs to advocate for more funding for regional Victoria services.
“We have a high suicide rate, and it breaks my heart, we have a serious ice problem in town and there is a high teenage pregnancy rate in Horsham
preferred easement, sharing details including an individual map showing the location of the easement on their land.
Wallaloo farmer Ben Duxson said while the easement was not planned for his land, it would go through his relative’s land, which he leased for farming purposes.
Mr Duxson said it did not matter where exactly the preferred route was set for – most landowners in the area did not want the project to proceed.
“It’s very hard to get a gauge, but it probably doesn’t change anything that we do anyway. Like the ones that are in it, the ones that are next to it are still going to fight it and don’t want anything to do with it, and that’s up and down the whole line,” he said.
“We’ve got a map nearly about to be
released that’s got about 90 percent of landholders affected who don’t, and their neighbours, who don’t want anything to do with it.”
Mr Duxson said many landowners would continue to deny TCV access to their land.
“It’s all about them doing it on their terms. They don’t listen to us. It’s not about listening to us. It never has been,” he said.
“At the end of the day, they’re going to have to come and compulsorily acquire land.”
VNI West program director Tony Hedley said conversations with landholders about the preferred easement started last week, ahead of a planned public release later in October.
“So far TCV has contacted more than 150 landholders who are directly
impacted by the preferred easement, and follow-up meetings have been organised for the coming weeks to work through what the preferred easement will mean for them, their land and day-to-day activities,” he said.
“In discussing the preferred easement with their landholder liaisons, landholders are wanting to know more about issues including compensation and land valuation – and we are wellpositioned to have these detailed conversations now that a preferred easement has been identified.
“We will also reach out directly to those people with properties neighbouring the preferred easement, as well as those whose property will no longer be directly impacted – acknowledging the time taken by many people across the draft corridor to
engage with TCV and share information.”
Mr Hedley said TCV hoped the identification of the preferred easement would provide greater certainty to people across the draft corridor, and more detailed conversations about what the project might mean for each landholder and their land could start.
The announcement of a preferred route comes after 18 months of public consultation and more than 600 meetings with landowners, along with the findings from field studies and technical and engineering assessments.
The preferred easement will need to be further assessed and confirmed through the Environment Effects Statement process during the next 12 months.
OPPORTUNITY: Candidates in the Horsham Rural City Council elections, back from left, Michael Bond, Brian Klowss, Todd Wilson, Brian Basham, Ian Ross, Toby Haynes, Kathy Ross, Cam McDonald, front from left, The Weekly Advertiser editorial director Lauren Henry with candidates Angela Munn, Dean O’Loughlin, Rebecca Sluggett, Dylan Hesselberg, Claudia Haenel and David Bowe at the forum.
... there is so much we could do in an advocacy role to make this a better place for youth,” he said.
Pine Lake candidate Toby Haynes said his job working in a secondary school allowed him to see youth issues first-hand on a daily basis.
“There are so many good ideas already out there ... they just need to be fostered and if council is in position to provide services that are already there – a little bit of work and effort to bring these ideas to life, individuals could really benefit,” he said.
When questioned about attendances at council meetings, whether as a councillor or as an observer, Horsham North candidate Claudia Haenel, a councillor from the most recent term, said it was not possible to attend all meetings.
“The role of a councillor includes making decisions on behalf of community, setting strategic direction and making decisions on behalf of the community,” she said.
“While meetings are part of the role, they are not the only part of the role.”
Fellow Horsham North candidate Kathy Ross said she attended a council meeting mid-year.
“I understand fully how council works and the process, and the requirements of being a councillor ... and the limitations of how you are meant to behave,” she said.
Horsham North candidate Todd Wilson said he had attended every council meeting for the past three months and watched online prior to that.
“My reasons for nominating come from a growing concern for Horsh-
am’s future – watching council meetings and reading agendas has led me to nominate and getting in and having a go for positive change,” he said.
Oatlands candidate Angela Munn said she was concerned about the performance and behaviour of the most recent council.
“I’ve been actively involved in advocating for the community for over a decade ... my career has been generally focused towards helping people, solving issues and concerns along the way ... I think my experiences, skills and attributes place me well to work to improve the community outcomes,” she said.
Dylan Hesselberg, who is standing in the Oatlands ward, said the people of Horsham deserve a council comprising competent, capable, collabora-
tive and compassionate councillors.
“We live in a beautiful town with just about every aspect working in its favour, but we need a revitalisation in public representation and a council built of capability, appropriate experience and a passion to serve the community if we are to be all we can be,” he said.
Fellow Oatlands candidate David Bowe said he loved the Horsham community and had strong connections in the municipality.
“I believe in community and I’m always one who is always putting other people before my needs. I’m focused on practical solutions and long-term sustainability,” he said.
BY BRONWYN HASTINGS
Grain growers in parts of Victoria were considering harvesting, hay-cutting and silage options following a dry growing season, but are now contending with the possibility of extensive frost damage.
Rupanyup farmer and Grain Producers Australia southern director Andrew Weidemann said recent frosts were the worst he had seen in about a decade.
“Like most farmers throughout the Wimmera and Mallee, we’re watching the weather pattern,” he said.
“Nearly every year we get some level of frosting in certain areas, but to see it on such a broad scale, you’ve
probably got to go back to 2014 or so, and 2018 certainly had some frost.
“But because of the dry conditions and the growth that’s about his year, it’s looking like having a major impact for the regions, unfortunately.”
Agriculture Victoria seasonal risk agronomist Dale Gray said while there had been decent rain in some parts of the state, it had not been enough for this year’s growing season.
“Generally, the rainfall south of the divide for September was pretty close to average,” he said.
“It’s really just that northwest area of the state, which at the moment just cannot seem to win a trick.
“Moisture levels, unsurprisingly, have been going down across the state because rainfall hasn’t been matching
Horsham and District Orchid Society hosted its spring show at Maydale Pavilion at the weekend, showcasing an impressive range of species to the public.
Society member Brad Scott said there were 18 displays.
“We had a good number of displays, but crowd numbers were slightly down on last year – we had about 200 people,” he said.
The society has more than 50 members, who come from towns including St Arnaud, Stawell, Beulah, Nhill and Horsham.
Members exhibited in 24 categories at the weekend, with Brad and Joy Scott winning grand champion of the show with phal amabilis.
The couple also won champion any other genera, champion species orchid, and champion phalaenopsis.
Peter and Lois Williams won champion Australian native species, champion first flowering seedling, best display – open, best mini board, and most creative display.
Anne Gardiner won reserve champion, champion cymbidium medium flower, and champion paphiopedilum.
Shannon Begg won champion cymbidium small flower, champion for cultural excellence – specimen, and best orchid on a pedestal.
John Welsh won champion oncidinae and champion cymbidium large flower; Roy Lee won champion laeliinae and best tabletop display; Natalie Lewis best display – novice, and Proctor family award.
Rosalie Caulkins won most outstanding cymbidium other than a champion, Wen-
pasture and crop requirements at this time of the year.
“A lot of well growing plants would need about 25 millimetres of rain a week to be treading water and there’s not many places that’s going on.
“We haven’t yet reached saturation either, which means we’re just not getting any runoff, which is not a good thing.”
Mr Gray said the high pressure system had been dominating the state’s weather pattern, with the centre of it averaging about the top of the Great Australian Bight.
“That is kind of a winter position, which is why it’s been allowing lots of fronts and howling westerly wind through the state, but particularly south of the divide,” he said.
Mr Weidemann said the decision to cut for hay comes down to the viability and the cost of making hay versus the market itself.
“Of course, it’s something that not everybody does all the time, so relying on contractors to do it and the availability of contractors can also heavily weigh on the decision making,” he said.
Horsham-based AWN agent Wayne Driscoll said some producers had been buying feed for stock since the start of this year and are now making longerterm decisions.
“Some farmers are making the tough decision to sell property,” he said.
“Some people are starting to dip their toes in the water in regard to selling and leasing, something that in our
dy Charlton won best display – intermediate, and Gerard Ackland won champion Australian native hybrid.
The society will host Victoria’s orchid show next year.
“We are looking forward to hosting the state show next year – 11 clubs from all over Victoria will come to Horsham for the event, which will run from Wednesday to Sunday,” Mr Scott said.
“At this stage it will be in July at Maydale, people will be able to bring their plants and their caravans – it will bring a lot of people to the town. It will be a challenge for us to host.”
Mallee Ag is looking for a Sales/Spare Parts
Mr Scott said people are welcome to join the society.
“We welcome everybody – there is no charge to come to meetings or to be on our mailing list,” he said.
The society meets regularly at Horsham Senior Citizens’ Hall and has outings, guest speakers and shares growing tips.
“People enter a range of sections at our competitions – different orchids grow in different climates, and we have sections for everyone from novice level,” Mr Scott said.
• More pictures, page 30.
with
Enquiries to the business manager, email admin@wimmeramalleeag.com.au or call Jodie on (03) 5382 6103.
country we haven’t had a lot of in the past five or 10 years.”
Mr Driscoll said this year had seen some of his clients have a second or third look at leasing and/or selling.
“There’s some interesting take-outs – the generational farmers, some of the younger people who were going to stay behind aren’t because the money-making hasn’t been there, and the older people have decided, they’re 65 or 75 years old or whatever it may be, that they’re going to move on,” he said.
For more information about managing during dry seasonal conditions, the timing of cutting hay, and yield calculators, people can visit agriculture. vic.gov.au, call 136 186, or consult an agronomist.
Fire destroyed a shed and a caravan at Dimboola’s Cemetery Road on Thursday last week.
Volunteer firefighters from multiple brigades fought the blaze, which had already engulfed both a shed and nearby caravan when they arrived just after 8pm.
Paramedics, police, VICSES and Powercor attended the incident, there was no report of injuries.
Firefighters also attended a car fire on Longerenong Road, Longerenong about 3.20pm on Sunday. The car was fully engulfed when crews arrived, with the fire spreading through roadside grass.
The fire, which was extinguished by volunteers from Dooen, Horsham and Jung brigades, is not being treated as suspicious.
‘Examining the effects of energy infrastructure on agriculture technologies’ Independent report presented by Adrian Roles, JMAJ Precision
Date
Wednesday 6 November 2024
Time 11am to noon
Enquiries: info@wsm.org.au
BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY
Northern Grampians Shire councillors have approved a draft 2023-24 annual report as the council prepares for this month’s Victorian local government elections.
While the council has officially entered its pre-election caretaker period, councillors were able to meet for an unscheduled meeting on September 30 to officially endorse the draft annual report.
The report shows expenses of more than $62-million against income of $35.4-million for the year, but a net asset revaluation gain of more than $30-million meant the underlying re-
sult was a $3.9-million surplus compared to the previous financial year’s $1-million deficit.
Chief executive Brent McAlister said the report showed the council was in a strong position, noting several key achievements of the past financial year.
He said sporting projects, including upgrades to the surface and clubrooms at Stawell’s Central Park, the ongoing construction of a new pavilion at Great Western Recreation Reserve, a rebuild of Stawell’s skate park, resurfacing of courts at Stawell Tennis Club and improvements to Stawell Sports and Aquatic Centre, along with planned $1.9-million upgrades for the
St Arnaud Pool, were all wins for the community.
Other achievements Mr McAlister highlighted included the continued success of tourism events including Grampians Grape Escape, refurbishment works at Stawell Library, development of a St Arnaud Framework Plan and several other council plans and strategies, the installation of LED lighting at Stawell Aerodrome runway, and allocating $3.7-million for flood-recovery projects.
“Our teams have executed many projects and programs being delivered shire-wide and have made and will continue to make a significant contribution to the community,” he said.
“Our Northern Grampians Shire Council emergency management team was activated for the devastating Pomonal fires in February.
“We opened an emergency relief centre in partnership with Grampians Community Health, Victoria Police, Red Cross Stawell branch and supported by our emergency management team with enormous success.
“We supported many displaced residents in their greatest hour of need.
“Of significance to us and what bought us immense pride, was the involvement and impact our NGSC EMT had on those affected, especially those team members who worked to support their community while being
directly impacted themselves. As we finish the Council Plan 2021-24, we are also in the preparation phase for a new council plan, gathering this information together to be presented to a newly elected council by November 2024. We look forward to furthering our engagement with the community on important infrastructure, programs and projects, that will see us through to 2029.”
The council will now submit its draft annual report to the Victorian AuditorGeneral’s Office for review.
People can view the report online at www.ngshire.vic.gov.au/Council/Governance-and-transparency/ Council-publications/Annual-Report.
Fresh off an NRL grand final appearance with the Melbourne Storm, rugby league star Josh King will visit Horsham and Ararat next week in a speaking tour aimed at engaging young people to pursue their passions.
King will visit St Brigid’s College and Horsham College on Monday, with stops at Holy Trinity Lutheran College, Marian College and Ararat College on Tuesday.
The centrepiece of King’s visit will be a pie night at Horsham’s Coughlin Park on Monday, where people will have a chance to listen to him talk, ask questions, pose for photos and enjoy a hot pie.
Wimmera Southern Mallee Local Learning and Employment Network, LLEN, executive officer Vanessa O’Loughlin said King’s visit presented an excellent opportunity for young people considering their futures.
“He’s going to do some activities with them relating to NRL and sport, but his message will be around providing motivation for young people as they approach their careers,” she said.
“I think the more messages and mentoring we can get through to our young people, the better.
“No doubt someone of Josh’s level of success is an influencer of young people. If they take that message from him, then that’s fantastic.”
sional rugby player. “He’s got a really strong message around resilience, looking after yourself and working hard, but also to approach your careers with passion,” Ms O’Loughlin said.
“He did a four-year apprenticeship as an electrician while trying to become a professional athlete.
“Obviously he was successful in becoming an athlete, but he had that backup and that support to ensure his future. Becoming a professional athlete is, A, not easy, and, B, once you’re there, one injury could turn your career upside down.”
Ms O’Loughlin said King, who grew up in regional New South Wales, understood barriers facing young people in rural areas.
“We’re really excited. We don’t get opportunities like this often rurally, and I think it’s really important we take the opportunity while we can and really learn from mentors,” she said.
“Josh has lived in Singleton and he understands some of the challenges that our rural young people face, particularly with pursuing sport.
“If a young person here is a promising sportsperson, they have to travel a long way – it’s a huge commitment.”
King’s visit is sponsored by the Minerals Council of Australia, and his talk will touch on a trade apprenticeship he completed before becoming a profes-
The Coughlin Park pie night will begin at 6.30pm. Tickets are $10 and include the cost of a pie, but Ms O’Loughlin said people who were financially disadvantaged could contact her for a free ticket by calling 0418 312 556 or emailing eo@llen.com.au.
WITH
Josh king is a professional rugby league player for the Melbourne Storm. Hailing from Singleton in the Hunter Valley, Josh knows firsthand the grit, determination, and focus on wellbeing needed to overcome regional challenges and chase your passion.
Monday 14th October
From 6:30 pm Coughlin Park Horsham
$10 per person. Register via QR code or email eo@llen.com.au
BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY
Staff consultation surrounding proposed changes to Grampians Health’s management structure is set to resume tomorrow after objections from the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Foundation, ANMF, paused the process.
Last month Grampians Health sent staff a change impact statement outlining proposed changes to more than 20 senior positions, with some staff to be directly appointed to new roles while other positions would be filled through internal expressions of interest or advertised externally.
While the proposed changes were set to affect only members of the chief operating office, they were distributed to all Grampians Health staff for feedback.
But soon after Grampians Health sent the change impact statement to staff, the ANMF raised objections.
ANMF Victorian Branch secretary Lisa Fitzpatrick said the union had concerns about what it perceived as a lack of detail supplied by Grampians Health.
“On September 4, Grampians Health management notified ANMF about its proposed major restructure across all areas of the health service without providing the details as required by the Victorian public sector nurses and midwives enterprise agreement,” Ms Fitzpatrick said.
“The initial proposal was complex though it didn’t provide enough information for ANMF, or our almost 3000 members across Grampians Health, to provide informed feedback.
“It also caused unnecessary anxiety for nurses and midwives who were both worried about their employment and how their teams and healthcare services would run in the future.
“The consultation period was paused after we notified Grampians Health of a formal dispute in a letter sent on September 6 outlining our concerns.
“We have now received the additional infor-
mation we were seeking about the nursing and midwifery positions impacted by the changes, new nursing and midwifery positions, how nursing and midwifery reporting lines change and a diagram of the proposed nursing and midwifery structure.”
Ms Fitzpatrick said the ANMF met with its members on Monday and had until tomorrow to provide feedback to Grampians Health.
Committed
Grampians Health was created nearly three years ago through the amalgamation of Edenhope and District Memorial Hospital, Stawell Regional Health, Wimmera Health Care Group and Ballarat Health Services.
A Grampians Health spokesperson said the proposed changes to its management structure came as the result of a review of the chief operating office.
Among the responsibilities of the chief operating office are hospital operations, aged care, mental health, ambulatory care and allied health, community care, clinical support and an electronic medical records project.
The spokesperson said Grampians Health was committed to working closely with relevant unions and staff representatives to reach an agreement.
Grampians Health chief operating officer Ben Kelly said the organisation had and would continue to provide additional information to its workforce, and aimed to help impacted employees understand and influence the proposed new structure.
“We have an obligation to review the way we do things and as we near the three-year anniversary as Grampians Health, we are positioned to reflect on what needs to be changed to ensure we can continue to improve and deliver on our commitments – that is, to provide consistent, high-quality healthcare service delivery to the communities we serve,” he said.
Horsham West and Haven Primary School’s west campus students have achieved another money-raising milestone for their new courtyard, reaching $30,000 through ongoing efforts, sponsorship, and Apex Club-supported catering at an end-of-term colour run. More than 500 students participated in the run, which also featured novelty games, a DJ and dancefloor, and emergency services interactive displays. As two more increments of $5000 were raised, another two staff members were slimed – teacher Lauren Andrew and principal Lee McKenzie. The $30,000 total will complete the grade five-six courtyard, with the installation of a shade structure. Pictured are grade one students Charlie Creek, Levi McKinnon, Jackson HammondO’Connor, Chloe Beggs and Penny Britten. Picture: BRONWYN HASTINGS
Grampians Wine will host Grampians Vine and Vibes, an event to showcase the finest wines, local food, and live music, during the Grampians Fine Wine Festival this month.
An opportunity to indulge in the Grampians’ renowned winemaking heritage, attendees can look forward to curated tastings, culinary delights from local vendors, and live performances from Doodads, Gemma’s Band, and other talented artists.
Grampians Winemakers chair Damien Sheenan said they were thrilled to host the event at Pomonal Estate.
“It showcases not only our exceptional wines but also the strength of our community,” he said.
“Pomonal was significantly affected by bushfires last summer, and this event serves as a way to support the community, come together, and celebrate the resilience of the region.
“We are grateful for the support of Ararat Rural City Council in making this possible.”
Guests can enjoy food offerings from Blue Wren Bakery and Pomonal Estate’s kitchen, complementing the impressive selection of wines available, including from producers such as Best’s Wines, Black and Ginger Wines, and Mountainside Wines.
Tickets for the October 19 event are $10, which including a souvenir tasting glass and access to wine tastings, are available from Humanitix.
I am an INDEPENDENT LOCAL Candidate with 8 years’ experience in council. I have lived in Horsham for 48 years and within the ward for the past 20.
I stand for honesty, transparency in all community engagement and continuing the progress of previous councils to promote and sell Horsham to the world outside.
Promote future development and employment.
Listen to the entire community, not be run by a minority outside of council.
Clear vision for encouraging state and federal governments to invest in the municipality of Horsham.
Authorised by Les Power, 8 McIntyre Street, Horsham. 0419922687
OCTOBER 18,
Have you driven in Melbourne lately?
Have you seen all the roadworks and projects being built in various parts of metropolitan Melbourne?
I drove through the north-eastern suburbs past kilometres of works being undertaken for the North East Link Tunnels.
I was on my way to my sister’s house in Rosebud – a journey I had made on several occasions in the past two years – but this time it was next level with the amount of works occurring. And to the naked eye, not a lot looks complete.
The 6.5 kilometres of tunnels from Watsonia to Bulleen will link Melbourne’s freeway network and will hopefully give drivers a dream run when needing to cross the city.
For local residents in that area, it will take 15,000 trucks off local roads every day and reduce travel times by up to 35 minutes.
As part of Victoria’s Big Build, the three major road projects also include upgrades to the Eastern Freeway and M80 Ring Road.
A $10-million blowout forced the State Government to allocate more money to it in this year’s Budget.
According to a report in The Age in May, the total cost is $26-billion.
Yes, that’s $26-billion – not million. A staggering amount of money in anyone’s language. While it’s great for Melbourne people, the question remains what about regional roads?
The government needed to fill about 220,000 potholes last year – the equivalent of more than one for every 100 metres of state-managed roads.
According to the Coalition, across the past five years, about 1.25-million potholes have been patched up.
Shadow Minister for Roads and Road Safety
By Lauren Henry
Danny O’Brien pointed out that our roads have become an ‘appalling mish-mash of potholes, cracks, rutting and uneven surfaces’, which have left our roads ‘looking more like goat tracks’.
And don’t we know it.
Mr O’Brien said any road engineer would tell you that potholes were a symptom of failure to maintain the roads, not success.
And with road resealing activity dropping by two-thirds this year, the situation was likely to only get worse in future.
It’s costing Victorians through damage to their vehicles, reduced productivity and more dangerous road conditions.
Member for Lowan Emma Kealy last week said the government had disbanded Regional Roads Victoria, an agency established in 2018 to ensure regional communities had safe and reliable roads.
She said roads maintenance funding had slowly dwindled since then, and Victorians were suffering.
“Even our main arterial, the Western Highway, is riddled with potholes, but for more than four years the Allan Labor Government has failed to allocate a single cent to finish the highway’s duplication between Ararat and Stawell to make the road safer,” she said.
While regional roads, like ours, are slowly getting worse – our city cousins will benefit from the billions of dollars being spent on roads infrastructure. If the projects are ever finished.
Make up your own mind
Issues raised by Neville McIntyre and Joyce Mills in The Weekly Advertiser, September 25, relate to the letter Neville McIntyre sent to The Weekly Advertiser, August 28 and my response.
The example I will outline does not contain charges, levies, or concessions.
A residential, commercial, or industrial property with a capital improved value of $550,000 would pay rates of $2092.20.
If that property was considered a farm, the rates payable would be $1046.10.
Total rate revenue from general rates outlined in the Horsham Rural City Council 20242025 budget papers state residential, commercial, and industrial rate payers contribute $15,820,000 to the rate pool for the municipality, while properties rated as primary production contribute $8,783,000.
This demonstrates that land rated residential, commercial, and industrial pay almost 100 per cent more in rates compared to land rated for primary production.
Joyce Mills points out that agricultural land has increased dramatically in value and primary producers are forced to pay exorbitant rates. She has neglected to say that land rated for primary production has exorbitantly increased the asset wealth of its owners.
For decades some residential rate payers have grappled with the problem of being asset wealthy and income poor.
Ask a pensioner who has worked all their life to pay off their home, how hard it is to budget for and pay council, levies, charges, and rates.
Neville McIntyre has taken readers on a ramble down memory lane and he continues to comment negatively about council.
He keeps trying to make the point with a confusing argument that farmers are subsidising residential rate payers to the tune of $1-million.
One positive from his letters is he has alerted residents of the imminent ‘burning of rates notices’ so we can get the washing off the clothesline before the soot begins to fall.
Neville McIntyre, I asked this question in my
first letter and you did not respond – will you lobby the new council to reduce rates for farmers when farmers already have a 50 per cent rate advantage over residential rate payers?
Jack Flynn, Horsham
No-one to fix roads
In Rupanyup, and our farm particularly, we are dealing with the intense push for a wind farm to the south, transmission lines to the east and mining to the north. Throw in the dry season.
I read in The Weekly Times, October 2, about the Victorian government selling its road maintenance business.
RRV was set up prior to the 2018 state election, but is now quietly being dismantled and being prepared for sale to the highest bidder. The sale price depends on whether the government will offer potential buyers long-term maintenance contracts.
A March survey by the National Transport Research organisation found that regional roads classed as ‘fair’ or better plummeted from 70 per cent during 2022 to nine per cent last year.
This government owned entity – Sprayline – holds contracts to maintain roads across Melbourne, the Grampians and Loddon-Mallee.
An overlay of the roads the RRV was responsible for combined with an overlay of the wind farms, transmission lines and mining areas would show similarities, I’m sure.
Victoria is doing poorly financially – we know that – but it doesn’t make sense to sell RRV at fire sale value and then employ a different group to fix the roads.
Could the new roads company already be known? And the CEO knows our Premier? And the price? Surely not!
What’s next for us in regional Victoria? Removal of public transport? School buses?
What is the State Government’s grand plan for us?
Carmel Healy, Rupanyup
Are you a hardworking individual who has dedicated your life to raising and supporting your children? As they grow into successful adults, have you ever wondered about your own financial situation?
Are you on track for a comfortable retirement? Don’t worry, we are here to help!
Last week we started reaching out to landholders to discuss the refined route for the new VNI West transmission line.
We have narrowed down the draft corridor for VNI West to a preferred easement around 70 metres wide along most of the route.
TCV’s dedicated Landholder Liaisons are contacting people in the preferred easement to share details, including an individual map showing the location of the easement on their land. We are seeking to meet in person to listen to concerns, answer questions and discuss the next steps.
Meaningful conversations with landholders are our priority. We understand that in some cases confirmation of the impacts to properties will be challenging, and we respect and appreciate the time taken to engage with us.
Conversations with landholders are important to identify opportunities to minimise the impact to their farm operations, views, day-to-day movements, plans for future property improvements - and to answer any questions they may have.
We will also contact those people with properties neighbouring the preferred easement, as well as those whose property will no longer be directly impacted –acknowledging the time taken by many people across the draft corridor to engage with TCV and share information.
We have worked hard over the past two years to listen to landholders and the community, to better understand the project area and find a preferred easement with the least impact to landholders, community and farming, balanced with consideration of the environment, heritage and site constraints. The preferred easement will be assessed and confirmed under a comprehensive Environment Effects Statement process over the next 12 months.
We will share a Preferred Easement Report later this month that will outline the process of route refinement including environmental and other constraints considered in identifying the easement and how feedback from landholders, Traditional Owners, communities and authorities has helped shaped that path.
Landholders are welcome to contact their dedicated Landholder Liaisons directly to arrange a time to discuss the preferred easement, or call TCV on 1800 824 221.
When I used to hear the phrase, ‘the days are long, but the years are short’ in relation to parenting small children, I would silently think, you have no idea what you’re talking about.
Fast forward 15 years, with my children now teenagers – and even post-teenagers – and I recently found myself saying that exact phrase to another parent.
This time, I said it with a smile, reflecting on how wonderful it is to look back at the chaos from a post ‘in the trenches’ perspective.
As parents, we often find ourselves counting down the days to school holidays, eager for a break in the routine and the chance to park the lunchboxes for a few weeks.
Yet, those holidays bring their own set of challenges: keeping the kids entertained, providing endless snacks, and juggling work without exhausting all our leave before the next round of holidays.
Now that I’m moving out of this phase, I reflect on those long days and short years and wonder: How can we gain that hindsight perspective while we are still in the thick of it?
Of course, there’s no answer to this rhetorical question, but it is worth pondering how we can support parents in finding sunshine even on the toughest days.
One thing I do know is that every parent is
with Jo Martin By Five Executive of cer
doing their absolute best at any given moment. Is it perfect? Maybe not, but perfect parents don’t exist.
Instead, what truly matters is how we support and uplift one another during one of life’s most challenging stages.
Something as simple as a smile or telling a parent ‘you’re doing a great job’ can be a real boost. It might just be the lift they need to turn a hard day around.
At a recent football-netball club presentation, one of the coaches mentioned something that stuck with me: ‘Tell parents they’re doing a good job, because they are’. It’s such a simple statement, yet so powerful.
So, with a weekend ahead that no longer requires me to entertain small children – and knowing I’ll likely get a full night’s sleep – I might just bake a few extra sausage rolls and drop them off to a new parent with a note saying, ‘keep up the great work – you’re doing amazing’.
CLASSIC: Rustin Chivell’s spur-of-the-moment decision led to the gathering of 35 classic cars, hot rods and muscle cars at the Dooen Hotel late last month. Mr Chivell was on his way home from the Birchip Show N Shine on Sunday, September 22, when he stopped for refreshments at the Dooen Hotel. Acknowledging tough times for small businesses, and that the hotel was back up and running after a break, Mr Chivell decided to organise a social gathering for classic car enthusiasts the following Thursday. “I was blown away by the turnout,” he said. More than 50 people visited the hotel for a meal.
Contact the TCV team
Freecall: 1800 824 221
Email: enquiries@transmissionvictoria.com.au
Website: transmissionvictoria.com.au
BY BRONWYN HASTINGS
Agricultural and pastoral societies are gearing up to showcase their community’s talents and achievements across a variety of areas, while providing fun for the whole family.
Thursday, October 10
Warracknabeal’s annual show is offering attractions for all ages and interests, in celebration of its diverse and connected community, from sheep-shearing and sheaf-tossing to mechanic bull and camel rides.
Warracknabeal Agricultural and Pastoral Society secretary Fred Ackland said the show also celebrated the community’s achievements, lifestyle and shared history.
“This is reflected within diversity of activities, culinary offerings, exhibits and the collaboration and co-operation between community groups and importantly the support of donors and sponsors, whose combined contributions go towards making a successful show happen,” he said.
“At this year’s show we have camels because 2024 has also been designated the International Year of the Camel, celebrating the role of the camel in human culture and endeavour.
“The organisers, community service clubs, Yarriambiack Shire Council, sponsors and donors have gone to considerable effort to make sure there is something for everyone.
“So, embrace the sense of community and join friends to participate in and attend your show –without community we would not have a show.”
Saturday, October 12
The Dinkum Dinosaurs Show, an animal nursery, Kaniva Lions’ Club car show and sheep races will feature at Kaniva’s annual agricultural and pastoral society show.
Society president Jim Alexander said he was excited to be hosting two new Victorian Agricultural Show qualifying events this year.
“We will have the young farmers’ challenge and the dog high jump – both have been well sponsored by the community and we are pleased to be able to keep this prize money local,” he said.
Sideshow alley, rides, market stalls, free activities and sheep races will entertain during the day, before the event is concluded with entertainment by The Austins and a fireworks display.
“Tim Bone will open the show and demonstrate some cooking, including making a duck pizza,” Mr Alexander said.
Show-goers will also have the choice of many food options during the day, including Devonshire tea.
Tuesday, October 15
Miniature donkeys and tiny goats alongside carriage rides, a header simulator cab, and shearing demonstrations, will entertain at this year’s Rainbow Agricultural and Pastoral Society Show.
Secretary Norelle Eckermann said traditional show attractions and a variety of food stalls would cover all tastes.
“We will have a lolly truck, show bags, facepainting, side shows and market stalls,” she said.
“This year we have several food vendors, including a two-course meal provided by the Rainbow Bowls Club, baked potatoes, Red Caboose barista coffee, Strawberries Galore, an icecream van, and donuts.”
People are welcome to enter the truck show, and there will also be lawn games for children.
“The Rainbow Show has always been a great social day,” Ms Eckermann said.
“We have an amazing pavilion of about 1500 exhibits. It is a lot of hard work to bring it all together, but it is a pleasure to see everyone enjoying themselves and having a great time.”
Thursday, October 17
Nhill’s annual agricultural and pastoral society’s show attractions include everything from shearing and horse events in the morning to a grand finale of fireworks and live music by The Austins in the evening.
Free sessions by Fizzics Education will also feature, along with a virtual reality grain arcade header and grain silo, facepainting, crazy hair colour and an animal nursery.
Society president Darrell Hall said Murra Warra farmer and National Farmers’ Federation president David Jochinke would be a guest.
“We are pleased to have David open the show, and host a question-and-answer session,” he said.
Nhill Vintage Club will have a World War Two machinery and vehicle display, and volunteer groups, such as CFA and VICSES, will be on display. A trade sites area will include machinery, local businesses and market stalls, and showman’s alley will include dodgem cars, zipper, fun factor and teacup rides.
The food court will include Luv-a-Duck products, a two-course lunch and afternoon tea.
The grand parade will showcase vehicles and machinery, and the ‘dress up as poultry’ competition, where people are encouraged to join in for the chance to win prizes.
“The day wouldn’t happen without the dedication of our committee, support from the wide variety of sponsors and most importantly volunteers prior and on the day,” Mr Hall said.
“This event is a year in the making, so come and enjoy what is on offer.”
INFORMED: West Vic Business facilitated an event for its members to hear from keynote speakers who specialise in making businesses run more efficiently, from improving processes to saving money – effectively, to spring-clean their practices. Chairman Mark Clyne, pictured third from left, with Rural Finance counsellor Maggie Bridgewater, Ag Financial Service’s Robert Barnes, and Norton Estate owner Chris Spence, said about 40 people attended the session at Norton Estate. “We had three main presentations, including on nbn upgrades and financial counselling. We want people to take a step back and think about their businesses,” Mr Clyne said. “There’s been a shift in our member base – we used to be very retail-based, but there are now a lot of people from the industrial, commercial sector who are members.” Mr Clyne said there were plans to bring members together for seminars in coming months. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER
27 OCTOBER 2024
Small acts make a big impact
Food packaging and plates made from uncoated cardboard can be put into the mixed recycling bin if they are not too food stained.
Food packaging and plates made from uncoated cardboard can be put into the mixed recycling bin if they are not too food stained
Food packaging and plates made from uncoated cardboard can be put into the mixed recycling bin if they are not too food stained
BY BRONWYN HASTINGS
Agrouping of key events brought life to Murtoa with its Big Weekend event – including the annual Agricultural and Pastoral Show and Murtoa Cup, alongside a variety of exhibits, attractions and activities.
Event organiser Natasha Pietsch said the three-day event at the weekend brought many visitors to the town.
“Murtoa was rocking over our big weekend, with unique experiences for everyone to enjoy,” she said.
“A vast range of events brought many visitors to Murtoa and provided many reasons to return.”
Ms Pietsch said Friday’s unexpected fine weather enticed huge crowds to the Murtoa Show.
“People were delighted with a large range of rides, stalls, entertainment and food options, and the entries in the pavilion were of a high quality,” she said.
“After the show, large crowds ventured to Rabl Park where they were treated to a high-class lighting trail and music experience.
“‘Destination Murtoa Lights’, supported by Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal, FRRR, and the Australian Government, was an eruption of several months’ work in community involvement through creative works by lead artist Dave Jones of Transience, with lighting installations by Outlook Communications complementing this community work.
“Rabl Park’s layout of weaving and meandering spaces also provided several intimate areas within the parkland to explore creative lighting solutions.”
SOMETHING FOR ALL: Above, Dale Watts and Graeme Ward at the Dunmunkle Sump Oilers Historical Engine Museum and right, Sam and Declan Hillios enjoy a hot jam donut at Lake Marma. Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER
Ms Pietsch said the use of multiple laser types, inflated lit balls and dancing trees complemented the illuminated arch bridges, boats, paper lanterns and birds, and an animated fish projection, which was created with children’s artworks.
The historical railway bridge was also a centrepiece – the weekend marked 40 years since the bridge was relocated.
“A slideshow and projected footage of Apex Club member Andy Dela-
hunty’s story viewed from the top of the bridge provided an interesting historical insight into this epic relocation of a fabulous landmark,” Ms Pietsch said.
Musical acts Brett and Ben Schmidt, and The Last Stand entertained the crowd.
“Although Saturday brought mixed weather conditions, large crowds con-
“We were thrilled by the quality of events on offer, and excited that people from the local and extended communities made their destination the Murtoa Big Weekend” – Natasha Pietsch
tinued to come and enjoy Murtoa’s Lakeside Market, show ’n’ shine, and our cafes and businesses,” Ms Pietsch said.
“A number of people arrived on the Seymour Heritage train, which was a delight.
“The Ecycle Solutions Murtoa Cup race day was brimming with entertainment and was also a huge hit with large crowds.”
Ms Pietsch said Saturday night brought the Murtoa Mechanics Hall to life with its first Big Weekend Underaged Disco.
“DJ Audio Oasis pumped through four hours of tracks, much to the joy of attendees,” she said.
Tourism destinations The Stick Shed, Murtoa Museum and the Dunmunkle Sump Oilers’ Historical Engine Museum provided visitors with unique experiences, while the addition of a pop-up photography exhibition at the Murtoa Train Station was also popular.
“We were thrilled by the quality of events on offer, and excited that people from the local and extended communities made their destination the Murtoa Big Weekend,” Ms Pietsch said.
Community Commitment:
• Manager of Ararat Neighbourhood House, fostering inclusivity.
• Encouraged by community leaders like Peter Beales, Bob Sanders, Jo Armstrong, and Bill Waterston, who recognise my values.
Proven Leadership:
• Led Ararat Neighbourhood House to win ‘Best Not-For-Profit’ in 2023.
• Tackled vital issues such as mental health and food insecurity in Ararat.
A Collaborative Approach:
• Sports facilities in Ararat.
• Promotes innovative solutions like expanded suicide prevention programs.
Support for Local Businesses:
• Champions more grants and incentives to help local businesses succeed.
• Committed to driving sustainable economic growth in our community.
Celebrating Diversity:
• Dedicated to hosting events celebrating Ararat’s rich cultural diversity.
• Strives to create an inclusive atmosphere for all residents.
Your Voice Matters:
• Ensures the community’s voice is heard in council decisions.
• Focused on transparent and accountable leadership for Ararat’s well-being.
R
esidents of the Grampians and Wimmera regions will have an opportunity to take part in a unique sporting event this month as Willaura’s Mount William Station prepares to host its annual polo tournament and fieldside long lunch.
Staged in the foothills of Grampians National Park, the tournament on October 26 and 27 will feature expert horsemanship, with the long lunch to be hosted by former MasterChef and Logie winner Sarah Todd.
The tournament will start at 11am on Saturday, October 26, with riders taking to the polo field at Mount William Station, with a grazing table and a selection of local spirits and wines set up at a marquee for spectators.
Mount William Station owner Will Abbott said Ms Todd would host the long lunch, at noon, for a second straight year.
“Sarah’s remarkable accomplishments, her persona, and commitment to using locally sourced ingredients have aligned seamlessly with the essence of our event. Her presence here undoubtedly infused an added layer of sophistication into our guests’ experience,” Mr Abbott said.
Following the polo matches, attendees will be able to join the players and polo officials for a gourmet barbecue dinner prepared by Mount William Station’s head chef Dean Sibthorp.
Sunday, October 27 will see another
“Sarah’s remarkable accomplishments, her persona, and commitment to using locally sourced ingredients have aligned seamlessly with the essence of our event”
– Will Abbott
set of polo matches to determine the winner of the 2024 Mount William Station Polo Cup.
Tickets for the tournament and long lunch are available at www. eventbrite.com/e/mount-williamstation-polo-tournament-2024-tickets-856737313367.
Long lunch tickets are limited and start at $190 per person. Tickets to watch the polo matches are free, but require registration. Food and drinks will be available to purchase on the day.
Additional hospitality packages including a picnic hamper for two and private marquee group packages for up to 20 people.
Glamping packages at Mount William Station are available for the weekend. People can email events@ mountwilliam.com or visit www. mountwilliamstation.com for more information.
Mr Abbott said prospective sponsors for the event were also welcome and could email events@mountwilliam. com for more information on sponsorship packages.
is organising a veterans’ expo at Horsham RSL, with the aim of connecting veterans, family and friends to support services and each other.
A veterans’ and community expo at Horsham RSL will aim to bring veterans together and connect them, their families and people in the community to each other and to the support services available to them.
Wellbeing and compensation advocate Lou Rothery said the event aligned with the annual Veterans’ Health Week.
“It’s the first time I have organised something like this,” she said.
“Because the Veterans’ Health Week theme is ‘keeping connected’ this year, I thought I could work on that – getting connected to services.”
Ex-service organisations represented at the expo will offer people advice on wellbeing, finances and legal matters, as well as other support services and activities.
“We will have Open Arms, Medilinks, RSL Active, Zed3, Bravery Trust, Guitars 4 Vets, Carry on Café, Legacy, Young Veterans, and Aussie Veterans Coffee, represented,” Mrs
Rothery said. “We will also have Horsham-based services and activities, including Equip Physiotherapy, Grampians Health, Eat Well Nutrition, Victoria Legal Aid, Catholic Care and Thrive Clinic, just to name a few.”
Mrs Rothery said the day-long community event offered people the opportunity to call in when it suited.
“It’ll be pretty casual. I’ll put on some morning tea, I’ll put on some afternoon tea, so whoever’s there can just help themselves, they can come along at any time,” she said.
“It’s really about giving people the opportunity to come in, ask questions of who they want to ask, and get them connected to the services that are available.”
Mrs Rothery currently sees about 90 veterans as clients, with more than double that on her mailing list.
“I’ve new people coming out of the woodwork every week – I’ve a lot of Vietnam vets, as well as vets from
Malaysia and Borneo, and I’m getting a few now who are in their 40s and 50s, from Iraq and Afghanistan,” she said.
“It’s good they’re starting to come in – it’s a different approach for them. I am helping them to transition, whereas the older vets, I’m generally doing compensation and well-being. You hear a lot of stories, and they’re all different.”
Mrs Rothery said everyone was welcome at the expo.
“Everything I do is always open to the public, but it’s mainly for the veterans. They’re always welcome to bring friends, invite family, because it’s all about connecting the family and friends as well so that they can support each other,” she said.
“The goal is that I can connect veterans to each other, I’m just giving them that opportunity.”
The expo will run from 10.30am to 5.30pm on Wednesday next week. – Bronwyn Hastings
Stawell-based environmental protection group Pro-
ject Platypus is inviting people to attend its 2024 annual meeting, which will focus on local platypus populations, next week.
Project Platypus manager Mark McLean said the meeting would be informative and engaging, and would feature presentations on new research on the local platypus population and novel eDNA sampling technology.
“This event will offer a unique opportunity to hear from leading experts in platypus research and conservation,” he said.
Presenters at the gathering will include Ben Holmes from the Wimmera Catchment Management Authority and Josh Griffiths from EnviroDNA.
Mr McLean said Mr Holmes
had been doing ‘exciting research’ into the movement patterns of platypus populations within the Wimmera catchment area.
“His work explores the dynamics of these elusive creatures in our local waterways,” he said.
Mr Holmes has extensive experience conducting platypus surveys throughout Victoria and helped pioneer environmental DNA, eDNA, water-testing technology.
Mr McLean said eDNA technology had revolutionised the way researchers monitored and conserved platypus populations, allowing them to identify the locations of individual animals through collection and testing of water samples.
“This has greatly improved our ability to sample for platypus in our waterways without the la-
bour-intensive trapping that was used 10 to 15 years ago,” he said.
Attendees will have an opportunity to talk directly with researchers and discuss their studies, gaining a deeper understanding of the efforts being made to protect platypuses.
The annual general meeting will be at Stawell Senior Citizens Hall on October 18, starting at 5.30pm and concluding at 8.30pm, with guests offered a meal.
The meeting is free to attend, but Mr McLean said donations to support Project Platypus’ ongoing conservation efforts were welcome.
For more information or to RSVP, people can book via project-platypus-agm-2024. raiselysite.com or visit www. platypus.org.au.
Federation University Australia researchers are upskilling regional and rural healthcare workers to help people manage and prevent chronic diseases with behavioural change techniques.
The Healthy Regions InterVEntion, THRIVE, program is training doctors, nurses and health practitioners – including those at East Grampians Health Service and in Ararat – in Motivational Interviewing, MI, to help people at risk of chronic illness, and those already diagnosed, to adopt
healthier lifestyles. Sufferers of chronic diseases and disorders, including cardiovascular, metabolic, respiratory, mental health and cancers, are being helped to change risk behaviours including poor diet, lack of exercise, illicit drug use and smoking, which can exacerbate the impact of these conditions.
Federation physiotherapy students receive advanced MI training, supported by the Department of Education and Training, preparing them to help their fu-
ture patients and communities.
The THRIVE MI training is based on the Happy Life Club initiative, delivered in partnership with regional and national governments in Beijing, Nanjing, and Shenzhen, China, where it has won a China National Health Innovation Award.
Established in 2022, THRIVE is led by Distinguished Professors Colette Browning and Shane Thomas and Professors Fadi Charchar and Britt Klein to support Victorian communities.
Children learned to solve the world’s problems around sustainability through the use of emerging technologies in a school holiday virtual reality experience at Horsham’s The Station.
The Beacon Holiday Program was presented by Sara White across four days last week.
“The kids are exploring the sustainability goals from the UN, looking at real-world problems, trying to solve those real-world problems and creating solutions,” she said.
“We use a variety of VR videos, we use augmented reality merge cubes as well, to look at content and then create content too.
“The kids are also using a program called CoSpaces, where they get to actually create their own virtual world.”
Participants used simple block coding
and demonstrated their solutions in the realms of land, air and sea.
“We’re also showing the kids what a career in engineering could look like, while giving them a little bit of context of some of the sustainability goals and issues around the world.”
Nine-year-old Solomon Sabbo of Stawell said he wanted to do virtual reality experiences more often.
“I think it’s amazing – I just checked it out with the phone and it was like molten lava,” he said.
“I want to be an engineer, like a scientist engineer that does tech. I want to be able to make cool tech and have fun with it.”
The program was sponsored by Lumination in partnership with BAE Systems Australia.
the family along!
New East
Grampians Health Service board
director
Emma Leehane is excited to work with the board and EGHS community to improve the quality of the health service.
E
ast Grampians Health Service has a new board director after Victorian Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas appointed Emma Leehane to the board last week.
Chair Ken Weldin said he was delighted to welcome Ms Leehane to the board.
“Emma has already provided great insight into our discussions, reflecting her rich and valuable experience, both professional and personal,” Mr Weldin said.
Ms Leehane previously worked at East Grampians Health Service as an Aboriginal hospital liaison officer, and has a background in teaching. She currently works at Central Highlands Water.
She has a Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Teaching and Diploma of Community and Social Services, with career highlights including working as team leader for Aboriginal health, as well as teaching in schools and museums.
Ms Leehane said she was inspired to apply for a board position through her previous experi-
ence working at East Grampians Health Service, EGHS.
“Due to my previous involvement as an Aboriginal liaison officer at EGHS, working with the staff and community to provide a quality service, I was inspired to apply for a board position to learn and develop the service at a strategic level with a cultural lens,” she said.
“I am excited to be working with the board and the EGHS community to continually strive to improve the quality of the health service and foster innovation and improvements in service delivery.”
Board positions are advertised annually, and Ms Leehane encouraged people interested in a board position to apply.
“If you have a passion to ensure an accountable and efficient provision of health care and the long-term viability of your local health service, becoming a board director is a way that you can assist in making a difference,” she said. POSITIVE:
Parents of newborns and infants will be able to immunise them against respiratory syncytial virus, RSV, for free next winter under a new State Government program.
Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas last week announced the government was committing $18.7-million to deliver a long-acting monoclonal antibody as part of a co-ordinated national prevention program for unprotected newborns and eligible infants up to eight months.
The free vaccine will complement a federallyfunded maternal vaccine in an effort to ensure as many babies are protected from RSV as possible. The monoclonal antibody is a long-acting vaccine that will be available for Victorian babies and infants whose mother was unable to be immunised or was immunised less than two weeks
before delivery. The infant vaccine provides protection for about five months, which covers the winter peak of RSV infections from April to September.
A catch-up program will also be available for eligible Victorian infants aged up to two years who are vulnerable to severe RSV and entering their second RSV season.
In most cases, immunisations will be administered in a hospital setting as part of standard post-birth care, helping parents avoid any additional healthcare costs and time spent attending appointments.
For more information about the program, people can visit betterhealth.vic.gov.au/respiratorysyncytial-virus-rsv.
Collect a box, fill it with
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■ 2 Min Noodles , 360g
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■ Rice, 1kg
■ Cake mix, Packet
■ Breakfast Cereal - Weetbix or similar, 350g
■ Peanut Butter (plastic jars/ tubes), 500g
■ Vegemite (plastic jars/tubes), 150g
■ Tomato Sauce, plastic bottles
■ Tomato Paste (plastic/sachets), packet
■ Ready to eat non-perishable meals (eg. avoured rice/pasta/ noodles and sauce), sachets/ pouches
■ Co ee (cans or sachets – no glass), 100 or 200g
■ Black Tea (no avoured varieties please), assorted sizes
■ Sweet biscuits, 200-250g
■ Savoury biscuits, 200-250g
■ Jelly crystals, packet
■ Toothbrushes, single or multipack
■ Toothpaste, up to 200g
The Weekly Advertiser invited all 15 candidates for the Northern Grampians Shire Council to provide profiles ahead of the local government elections.
Two candidates, Ross Hudson and John Farrell, both in the Kara Kara ward, did not submit information.
Candidates were emailed a questionnaire to fill out, with a 200-word limit, and asked to supply a photo. Some candidates chose to answer the questions specifically, while others submitted their candidate statements.
The questions were:
Name:
Municipality/ward:
Occupation:
Please provide a brief background in the context of why you would make a good councillor?
Have you stood for/been on council before? If so, outline details of when?
Please outline your reasons for nominating for council?
Do you have any particular platforms that you are standing for?
Why should people vote for you?
How can voters contact you for more information?
Voting information
Voters enrolled in Northern Grampians Shire Council should check the mail for their ballot packs.
Electoral commissioner Sven Bluemmel encouraged people to vote as early as possible. “This election is postal, so it’s important to complete and return your ballot material as soon as possible to make sure your vote counts,” he said.
Ballot material must be in the mail or delivered to the election office at Media Centre, Grandstand 1, Central Park, 14-18 Main Street, Stawell by 6pm on October 25. Voters who have not received their ballot pack by October 15 should go to vec.vic.gov.au to complete an online replacement ballot pack form.
Candidates who have nominated for the election are listed in the ballot packs and on the Victorian Electoral Commission website at vec. vic.gov.au. Voting is compulsory for all voters who were enrolled for this election at 4pm on August 7. Voters who do not vote may be fined.
Occupation: Semi retired.
Background:
I have lived in Stawell and district for around 35 years. I am married to a local and my two sons attended school in Stawell.
I have worked as a secondary school teacher and chaplain, owned a small business, The Pomonal Store, and managed Stawell Neighbourhood House. Everything I’ve done leads me to this point – a vision for Northern Grampians Shire to be the amazing municipality that it has the potential to be.
Reasons for nominating: It is time for a change. It is time for our local council, to genuinely engage with our people. To listen, to lead, to bring people together, to harness our talent, in order to create a positive future for our shire. Sure rates, roads and rubbish are important, but local government is so much more. To learn about my vision for NGSC please view my Facebook Page – Jenny Greenberger – Candidate NGS Election 2024. Particular platforms: The platform on which I am standing for council is ‘Integrity and Respect.’ As has been reported in The Weekly Advertiser, NGSC has been embroiled in controversy over the treatment of Councillor Lauren Dempsey by some members. I am a foundation member of Women for Council –NGSC, and I think it is time for change, a new 21st century way of conducting ourselves as leaders in our community.
Why should people vote for you? For a new way and a positive future for Northern Grampians Shire.
Contact: Voters can telephone me on 0408 571 375 or email jennygreenberger2024@ gmail.com.
9-13 October, 2024
Background:
Having lived in this shire all my life and been involved in many volunteer organisations, I have a deep connection to this community –the history, the environs, the people.
Reasons for nominating: I care about our residents having the best possible facilities, services and opportunities and a safe environment to live.
Being appointed to numerous advisory committees and boards, I have extensive executive management and business skills and have represented community interests in many spheres; as well as respect and trust as a leader, both locally and regionally; a natural ability to engage people; capacity to rise to a challenge; to think strategically particularly in planning, policy formulation, finance, leadership and advocacy; and common-sense decision-making.
First elected in 2003, it is a privilege to be re-elected to ensure residents’ queries, grievances, opinions and ideas are heard and presented to council on their behalf, and to work diligently with honesty, integrity, transparency, knowledge and vast experience in lobbying for government funding and government action, to achieve the best possible outcomes for all. Why should people vote for you? I am passionately committed to: A respectful team culture; frugal financial management; efficient, sustainable delivery of services; improving infrastructure, amenities and public transport; supporting existing and new businesses; expanding job opportunities and housing options; a vision for a vibrant municipality – a good place to live, work and enjoy. I have the capacity, passion, enthusiasm, knowledge and skills to assist residents and represent your needs on all council matters.
Contact: Mobile: 0427 480 462. Email: kevinerwin@bigpond.com.
Central Ward: Lachlan Eckert Occupation: Self employed
Background: A few examples of experience I have that would make me a good councillor include: One of the founders of the Stawell Mounties NRL team and president; martial arts coach of a range of different ages and skill levels, taking people from beginners to competitors. I manage approximately nine staff. I have experience dealing with contracts and policies. Working class experience in different countries and environments including Egypt. Have you stood, been on council before? This will be my first time standing for council. Reasons for nominating: I beleive I have the ability to shape the shire into a better place to live. I want my son to be able to grow up in a town that’s abundant with activities, shops, business and services and more. I also hope to be able to better the businesses of our town so they can thrive and continue to contribute to society.
Particular platforms: I have no particular platforms that I stand for. I have noted on my Facebook page a few key things I feel strongly about that I welcome the community to read. Why should people vote for you? I believe people should vote for me because our town needs new, young and enthusiastic people to shape our town. People that have a purpose to deliver and walk amongst the crowd that want a better town.
Contact: The community can contact me via the following: Email: Lachlan.eckert.ngs@ gmail.com. Phone: 0436 468 380. Or via Facebook messenger.
Central Ward: Lauren Dempsey
Background: I am a communityoriented person who always puts community at the forefront. I’ve sat on the Central Grampians LLEN board for almost 10 years, currently a member of Stawell Neighbourhood House committee and been a member of Stawell West Primary school’s council.
I’ve worked in health promotion and partnership brokerage for over 10 years, which provides transferable skills to the councillor role.
I’ve had one term as councillor to get my head around the role and done relevant training to enhance my skills. I now feel I am completely ready to step back into the councillor role and put my skills and learnings into practice. Reasons for nominating: I’d love to be reelected so I can continue to represent my community and ensure their voices are heard in the chamber when it comes to decision making. I’d love to take all I’ve learnt in my first term on council and apply it to the role. I am passionate about the community and the Northern Grampians Shire and I want to be a part of making our shire prosper long into the future. Particular platforms: Diversity and equality as all voices deserve to be heard and respected. Why should people vote for you? I pride myself on always acting with integrity and putting the best interests of the community first. This starts with respect and open communication in the council chamber of which I’ve always advocated for. I am an approachable and genuine person and have always acted in the councillor role with transparency and vulnerability. To me, these are characteristics and values of good leadership.
Contact: Facebook: Lauren Dempsey, Candidate for Central Ward; Instagram: lauren_ dempsey_forcentralward; email lauren dempseyforngs@gmail.com.
Central Ward: Rob Haswell
Occupation:
Company director, furniture designer.
Background: I am currently serving my second term as councillor for the Stawell Ward, having first been elected to council on October 22, 2016, and re-elected on October 24, 2020. I am originally from Sydney, I spent 20 years in Canberra, but Stawell is now my home. I imagine living in Stawell now for the rest of my days. With my experience I believe I am well-equipped to provide stability, support and collaboration within a new council.
Have you stood, been on council before? 2016-2020; 2020-2024; Northern Grampians Shire Council Mayor, November 2023 to October 2024.
Reasons for nominating: I have been a councillor with NGSC for the past eight years and was elected mayor in November 2023. I am seeking re-election because I have greatly enjoyed my role and wish to continue working for and with our community. I am enormously interested in our growth as a tourist area and believe we live in one of the most beautiful areas of Victoria.
Particular platforms: Accessible healthcare; affordable housing; education; tourism; local business.
Why should people vote for you? I have been a resident and business owner in Stawell for the past 11 years. I have become very fond of the area and our community. I have been a councillor now for eight years, so along with a passion to help our shire thrive, I also bring experience, commitment and knowledge.
Contact: Email rob@exclusivespace.com.au or phone 0419 222 046.
Central Ward: Karen Hyslop
Occupation: I have a career that spans from nursing and midwifery to volunteer midwifery in India. I have a vast experience in local government in my role as a councillor.
Background:
Successful completion of the Australian Institute of Company Directors course in 2023; governance, the legal environment, risk and strategy, financial literacy performance and achieving board effectiveness. Completed Leadership Wimmera 2013 Regional Leadership Skills through Wimmera Development Association. GWM Water Community Panel member in 2022; current committees include Stawell Secondary College School Council, Western Victoria Primary Health Network Community Advisory Council, Grampians Health Community Advisory Committee and Stawell Community Reference Group.
Have you stood, been on council before? Councillor Northern Grampians Shire, 20122020 and 2022-2024.
Reasons for nominating: Being born and bred in Stawell I am very passionate about the Central Ward where we live and run our family farm. I am standing as a candidate for the Central Ward as I understand the issues and challenges that people and businesses face. I have the experience, confidence and skills needed to take action and make a difference in order to develop and enhance our community that has so much to offer.
Why should people vote for you? I have the skills and a successful history in leading community based organisations. I have established strong relationships with numerous local community organisations and leaders. I am the voice on council that represents our community. Contact: Phone, 0484 269 942. Email, khyslop65@icloud.com.
Grampians Ward: Trevor Gready
Background:
My name is Trevor Gready and I am running for a second term in this year’s council elections.
It is an honour to represent the Grampians Ward.
As someone who has lived and worked in the Stawell district all my life I understand our community’s needs. I’ve run businesses here for many years, employing locals and supporting the region’s growth.
Reasons for nominating: I am passionate about continuing to foster progress by working closely with residents and the council to improve the Northern Grampians Shire. I am known for my leadership, honesty and transparency. I am committed to bringing these values to my role as a councillor.
Particular platforms: If elected, I will focus on improving communication between council and the public, advocating, supporting and promoting our surrounding districts and shire as we work together to ensue a thriving and prosperous future for the Northern Grampians Shire. Thank you for considering me as your representative.
Why should people vote for you? I will be pushing for funding to upgrade our rural roads; continuing to support the reduction of red tape to businesses and residents; stop council wasting time on global political issues rather than looking at what needs improving in our own backyard; to continue to upgrade and improve infrastructure throughout the shire, while supporting local businesses, sporting groups, farming communities and local residents to uphold our vibrant economy, rural quality of life and a sense of community pride.
Contact: trevorgready@gmail.com.
Background: I have been a councillor on the Northern Grampians Shire for the past 12 years.
During this time I have had the honour of being the mayor on five occasions.
I am running for council to continue the work that has been done over the past 12 years and if elected, I will represent my community without fear or favor.
There are numerous challenges that I will commit myself to on behalf of the community, these being financial sustainabilty, good governance, continued improvement of services for people residing in the shire, aged care, health services and children’s services.
There is, of course, a major challenge managing the problems associated with alternate energy and the high voltage overhead power lines that are a real threat to our agricultural industry.
The very poor condition of our roads will be a huge focus, if elected.
There will be many and varied other challenges that will need to be dealt with during the next council term.
I have extensive experience in campaining governments, and now have the relationships that will benefit that endeavor.
There is lots to do but I am up to the challenge. My pledge is to represent the Northern Grampians Shire community, and give them a voice at the council table.
Reasons for nominating: Geographically, Kara Ward covers more than half of Northern Grampians Shire. It is essential to have councillors who live in the ward they represent, I have nominated to provide that choice.
Being local is not only good, but in my view, essential.
I am fortunate to live in St Arnaud.
I have come from a serious business career and my work was always about effective governance, enhancing strategy, maximising outcomes and minimising unproductive expenditure and processes.
Why should people vote for you? My key skills are in financial analysis, but I also had overall responsibility for negotiating and documenting large acquisitions, as well as hundreds of millions worth of services to governments. I have also owned my own businesses and am aware of the stress of not knowing what next week will bring.
Kara Kara will become an even more wonderful place to live when vision and strategic objectives best align with the interests and priorities of the community.
In Northern Grampians, many people are really struggling, a housing crisis, retail businesses as people reduce their spending, and farmers whose crops are reduced through lack of rain. Council must not waste resources or lose sight of these real issues.
Contact: Feel free to call me on 0450 701 411.
Background: Hi, I’m Karen. I love this community that I’ve lived, worked and been involved in since making St Arnaud my home 34 years ago.
I love talking to people to discover their stories. It’s what I enjoy most about being a solicitor in a country town.
I strongly believe in local input and really listening to understand.
The people who live and work here have the knowledge and passion for our communities. In my work I aim to explain difficult concepts in plain English. These concepts will be the basis of my approach in council.
My community involvement has included past president primary school council, pipe band and sports stadium; hospital board, committees of various sporting clubs, coach of Minkey and junior tennis, founder of Moto Kids, Family and Friends.
My formal qualifications are Degrees in Law and Economics, accounting major; Graduate Certificate Planning; qualified personal trainer and yoga instructor.
My work, education and personal approach means I can analyse issues, discuss and involve others, and think of different ways to solve issues, skills which I will use in council to make our communities even better. Contact: Phone 0468 773 478 or email karenkarakara@yahoo.com.
Grampians Ward: Justine Hide
Occupation: Selfemployed in tourism.
Background: I have developed the ability to work cohesively with diverse individuals through a range of eclectic and challenging work environments, both across Australia and internationally. As a small business owner, I understand the demands of long hours, hard work, and the need to deliver results, while also addressing real issues within our region. As a mother and foster parent of primary school-aged children, I have a deep understanding of what families need in this region. My involvement in various local committees keeps me grounded in the community, enabling me to act efficiently and serve as a bridge between the community and the council if I was to be elected.
Have you stood, been on council before? No.
Reasons for nominating: I have been talking and listening to the community for years gaining direct feedback, now is the time to put that passion into action.
Particular platforms: It is crucial to begin mapping and implementing future plans for a more sustainable, self-sufficient, forwardthinking region, ensuring a better future for our children. Additionally, some basic functions of the council such as waste, roads and support for community groups and small businesses are high on my radar.
Why should people vote for you? I will offer a new voice, vision and values – three key areas our community is currently lacking.
Contact: Reach out via: email: justinehide2024@gmail.com plus to keep up to date: Facebook: @JustineHide.
Grampians Ward: Jack Blake
Have you stood, been on council before? I have never been involved in local, state or federal politics, but I desperately see the need to bring more understanding for myself and what I represent – the ‘working class people’.
Reasons for nominating: One of the many reasons I am running for council is part of my master plan by bringing the community together and hopefully encouraging the next generation from all education levels and classes that there voices are just as powerful.
Particular platforms: My platform is engaging communication and encouraging communities to help improve their community involvement.
It’s not about infrastructure, that will naturally come, but if we don’t educate our youth and lead them in the right direction we are setting the next generation up to fail. Why should people vote for you? By voting for me, I bring honesty, truth, transparency, and I don’t believe in hidden agendas.
I’m not financially driven. I am working class and to give a broader representation to our community in having someone they can relate to.
Contact: My contact information is Robertjamesblake1967@gmail.com or phone 0487 555 476.
Occupation: Business Support.
Background: With more than 15 years in the local government sector, I have delivered a high volume of successful projects across economic development, community development and youth engagement throughout metropolitan and regional Victoria. Prior to commencing my career in local government, I worked within the financial industry for companies such as ANZ and AMP, developing an expansive skill set across communication and relationship management. This, combined with more than 30 years volunteering for not-for-profit organisations, provides me with impeccable interpersonal, communication and problem solving skills, which will be an asset when advocating for our community across local, state and federal government levels. Have you stood, been on council before? No. Reasons for nominating: Volunteering with not-for-profit groups inspired me to divide my time to co-ordinate events across Melbourne. Here, I contributed to raising much-needed funds for those whom were experiencing issues such as homelessness, domestic violence, sexual abuse, drug and alcohol addiction. Over the past 15 years I have worked in metropolitan and regional Victorian councils to build partnerships and deliver projects across youth engagement, community development and economic development. Having worked with council I could see how my combined experience in local government and corporate sectors could benefit our LGA. Why should people vote for you? I am authentic, approachable and accountable. Contact: lisawhytevote1@gmail.com or Facebook Lisa Whyte – Candidate for Grampians Ward.
The Weekly Advertiser invited all eight candidates for the Hindmarsh Shire Council to provide profiles ahead of the local government elections.
Three candidates, Tony Clark, Elizabeth Chivell and Ron Ismay did not submit information. Candidates were emailed a questionnaire to fill out, with a 200-word limit, and asked to supply a photo.
Some candidates chose to answer the questions specifically while others submitted their candidate statements.
The questions were:
Name:
Municipality/ ward:
Occupation:
Please provide a brief background in the context of why you would make a good councillor? Suggestions: involvement in community groups/ family ties/professional skills or qualifications. Have you stood for/been on council before? If so, outline details of when?
Please outline your reasons for nominating for council?
Do you have any particular platforms that you are standing for?
Why should people vote for you?
How can voters contact you for more information?
The Weekly Advertiser will continue to publish profiles of candidates in other councils across the region.
Next week, West Wimmera and Yarriambiack candidates will be featured.
Key voting dates
Monday, October 7: Ballot pack mail-out begins.
Friday, October 25: Voting closes at 6pm. Friday, November 1: All postal votes must be received by noon.
Friday, November 15: All election results declared.
North Ward: Roger Aitken
Why should people vote for you?
My vision is to be able to work closely with the other councillors and Hindmarsh Shire Council staff for the betterment of the local communities in our area.
I have worked in organisations that work in high-tempo situations, small group decision-making, that would affect everyone’s working environment and a day-to-day life.
I enjoy talking to people and listening to their points of view and always take this into consideration.
Meal or food types I like, the good old Australian barbecue loin chops and sausages.
TV programmes or shows I enjoy include the evening news and Back Roads, movie or actors, comedy and sci-fi.
Music, I listen to all styles of music from classical to country and western, Scottish and Irish.
Contact: Mobile, 0400 903 904 or email roger.m.aitken@gmail.com
Ward: Debra Nelson
Background: Dimboola has been my home for 20 years and it has been a great honour, as a councillor the past 12 years, to represent the interests and aspirations of the town and surrounding agricultural district community.
I have volunteered for various community groups for many years.
Reasons for nominating: My reasons for nominating for East Ward of Hindmarsh Shire Council are twofold. Foremost, I am passionate about the wonderful community I live in, and also believe council needs to be as diverse as our community, including gender, to best represent our community.
Secondly, I believe continuity is important and that there is a role for me as an experienced councillor to provide support and mentoring to newly elected councillors. Why should people vote for you? If elected, I will represent the interests of East Ward by advocating for continuous improvement to both the aesthetics of the town and the infrastructure needs of our district.
I will also support tourism opportunities to build on economic benefit for businesses, to further grow our town, as a tourism destination, and highlight Dimboola as desirable place to live.
Contact: Debra3414n@gmail.com
West Ward: Rosie Barker
Occupation: Social worker, counsellor and psychotherapist – MSW, BCouns, DipCouns.
Background: Listening is a key part to being a social worker and counsellor and this will enable me to translate the requirements of the community into persistent tenacious advocacy to Hindmarsh Shire Council to push for the best outcomes for all.
There is a new and positive opportunity for a modern approach due to the changes of councillors, shire chief executive and staff.
Our family have been involved with many community groups: Nhill Town Committee, Nhill and District Historical Society, volunteer at Nhill Information Centre, Probus, CWA, Lowana, and Nhill Senior Citizens.
Have you stood, been on council before? No. Reasons for nominating: The time is right and I believe that I can make progress and a difference.
Particular platforms: It is time for respectful communication that brings outcomes for the community in an efficient and inclusive way on all issues and topics. Why should people vote for you? My passion is a catalyst for positive change for the West Ward that I live in, and care about. Due to lack of candidates in the West Ward there will be no voting in the West Ward and this highlights the need to bridge the gap between the community and Hindmarsh Shire Council.
Contact: Voters can call me on 0451 371 009 or email rosie4hindmarsh@gmail.com
Background: I am running for council as I believe in this community and am excited about the potential and future of Dimboola and district. By working together, I feel we can enhance the work that has previously been carried out to place Dimboola as an ideal and unique place to live, work, retire or visit.
My wife Kylie and my two sons Malcom and Angus relocated to a property near Glenlee from Gippsland about 12 years ago. We established a duck farm, growing ducks for Luv-a-Duck for whom we are now one of their largest producers. We have made many friends who have welcomed us into this fantastic community. I am passionate about our community and am involved in the Dimboola Football Netball Club and Nhill Motorcycle Club, and I now believe this is the perfect opportunity to give back to the community who have been so welcoming and generous.
Why should people vote for you? If elected, I am fully committed to advocating for our share of funding for capital and renewal work for both the East Ward and for Hindmarsh Shire. I will also aim to provide as much support as possible for our farming and secondary producers, retail, manufacturing, services and tourism businesses.
I will do my best to ensure that all decisions made by council are transparent and that all levels of communications between council and ratepayers are open and honest. Although I will be only one voice, I believe it is imperative that all councillors making strategic decisions, implementing plans and actions will do so in a cohesive manner and that all decisions will lead to increased sustainability of the council and a thriving community across the shire.
Contact: 0400 657 178.
Reasons for nominating: My vision for Hindmarsh is for it to become bold and exciting. Having been in business in Dimboola for five years, I have heard from locals and people from the surrounding towns that there is a desire for rejuvenation. Why should people vote for you? As the face of diversity, I pledge to continue inspiring innovative change for Hindmarsh Shire so that the community can be prosperous, connected and inclusive.
Before moving to Dimboola in 2019, I owned restaurants in Yarraville and Docklands. I understand the importance of creating compelling visitor experiences, offering exceptional customer service that generates positive wordof-mouth, and place-making being paramount for community well-being, connection, and prosperity.
I have been proactive in Dimboola and the Wimmera by being a committee member of the Dimboola Town Committee, which is now the Dimboola Progress Association, Dimboola Art Inc., which is responsible for Tower Park, and West Vic Business, which is a chamber of commerce for the Wimmera.
I created the Wimmera Steampunk Festival to bring joy back to the community after the COVID-19 lockdowns, and the event got national and international attention. Boosting tourism for the town and region has been my passion.
I am enthusiastic about working with Hindmarsh Shire to bring about a new era of prosperity for the region.
Creating a desirable lifestyle in the region can attract professionals such as doctors, nurses, and teachers. I am fully committed to this goal.
Contact: Owner of the Dimboola Imaginarium.
PERMANENT: Tara Hosseinkhani is Grampians Health Stawell’s first permanent pharmacist.
Grampians Health Stawell’s first permanent pharmacist is loving both her role and her new home.
Tara Hosseinkhani studied pharmacy in Brisbane and subsequently worked at city clinics and regional centres, but wanted to explore more of Australia.
With interests including food, festivals and travelling, she saw Stawell as an ideal location with a role that suited her perfectly.
“I’ve travelled Australia on holidays but you get to experience a place more when you live and work there and I wanted to see as much as possible,” she said.
“So I joined a locum agency and requested work interstate. I mainly worked in Queensland but also Victoria and Western Australia.
“My very first locum job was at Ballarat Base Hospital in August 2022. While I was there, I was chatting with one of the other locums about places of interest and she suggested I should try working at the Horsham campus because she enjoyed it there.
“I eventually got a contract at Horsham and when that finished, I was offered Ararat or Stawell. I didn’t mind which one, so I let the agency decide and they arranged for me to start at Stawell.”
Ms Hosseinkhani said she had never heard of Stawell previously and mispronounced the town’s name when she arrived.
“I hadn’t even heard of the Stawell Gift and yet it is clearly a national icon. But it didn’t take me long before I was loving being here,” she said.
“I kept renewing my agency contract and after several months I decided this was where I wanted to be.
“Stawell is very different to every other hospital I’ve worked. It’s very unique in lots of ways.
“I’ve now worked at all Grampians Health campuses with pharmacies, but this is the only campus where you are the sole pharmacist on site and you have all the responsibilities.
“Those responsibilities are complex and challenging but in a good way. You learn a lot on the job and I wanted to have that experience for my own professional growth. It’s a good feeling when you overcome a challenge and you achieve a good outcome.”
Grampians Health hospitals regional director Carolyn Robertson said having a permanent pharmacist was a great coup for the Stawell campus.
“Tara’s appointment is a great example of how Grampians Health is providing greater access and increasing services to our region,” she said.
“She is a fantastic addition to the Grampians Health Stawell community and contributes to the whole hospital with things such as DOS and accreditation.
“We are lucky to have her.”
Award-winning actor, comedian, and Netflix’s The Merger creator Damian Callinan is bringing his critically acclaimed solo show Double Feature to Apsley.
Callinan tells his parents’ story with humour, heart, and a lot of love, bringing their story of romance and loss into a live performance.
The show, at 4.30pm on October 27 in Apsley Hall, is supported by Apsley and Districts Action Group, with sponsorship from West Wimmera Shire Council and Edenhope Bendigo Bank.
Tickets are $20 and available at Apsley’s corner store, post office and at www.trybooking. com/events/landing/1274623.
I’M HAVING TROUBLE BREATHING SINCE MY CHEST INFECTION, I HAVE A TIGHT CHEST. I’VE BEEN TO THE DOCTOR AND HE SAYS THERE’S NOTHING WRONG. Ever had that happen to you or someone you know? Why? Unfortunately, sometimes when we have a chest infection or bronchitis which can cause a lot of coughing or difficulty breathing, we change our breathing patterns. We can overuse some muscles which can result in the upper back and neck tightening up. It doesn’t necessarily cause a lot of pain, you just feel as though you can’t take a deep breath.
So what can a chiropractor do?
Chiropractic care can help the rib-cage move more freely by adjusting the fixated (subluxated) areas of your spine and relieve the tightness in those muscles allowing a person to breathe more easily.
If that sounds like you or someone you know, give us a call to see how we can help move and breathe better.
Donald Mineral Sands (DMS) invites you to our upcoming walk-in sessions. Join us to learn more about the project planned near Minyip and how it can benefit our community.
Donald
Donald Soldiers Memorial Hall, 35 McCulloch Street, Donald Thursday, 10 October: 3pm to 6pm
Minyip
Minyip Senior Citizens, 72 Main Street, Minyip Friday, 11 October: 10am to 1pm and 3pm to 6pm
Rupanyup
Rupanyup Community Centre, 25 Gibson St, Rupanyup Saturday, 12 October: 10am to 1pm
No need to register. Drop in anytime during session hours.
• Get the latest on the project directly from our experts
• Explore detailed displays about the project
• Have your questions answered in one-on-one discussions
• Ask questions and share your feedback and ideas
• Learn how this project could boost our local economy
• Understand our commitment to environmental management
For more information
03 5385 7088 enquiries@donaldmineralsands.com
Contact us
Donald Mineral Sands — Investing in the Wimmera’s Future
astronlimited.com.au/donald enquiries@astronlimited.com
03 5385 7088
23 Church St, Minyip VIC 3392
Debt is a fact of life; some might say it’s a necessity.
Rarely is a home or large-ticket item purchased without finance of some kind.
Australians typically manage their financial obligations well, but rising interest rates, cost of living pressures and unexpected expenses combine to place stress on a household budget.
In an increasingly cashless economy, it’s difficult to keep track of spending, and before you can say, ‘tap-and-go’, the morning latte and toastie has maxed out the credit card.
Most people tighten the belt and get back on track. Unfortunately, others find themselves caught in a downward spiral that quickly gains momentum until realising they are in over their heads.
Failure to meet your financial obligations may result in you being contacted by a debt collection agency as creditors seek to recoup their losses.
While this is traumatic, keep your cool and remember that you have rights.
According to MoneySmart.gov.au a debt collector can only contact you:
• By phone during specific hours, up to three times per week or 10 times per month.
• Face-to-face only as a last resort.
• By social media if they are sure no one else has access to your private messages.
Debt collectors may:
• Request payment or ask why you have not met a payment plan.
• Offer to make, or review, a payment plan.
• Advise consequences for non-payment.
• Repossess goods for which you owe money.
Debt collectors cannot:
• Trespass on your property.
• Bully, mislead, harass or abuse you.
• Deceive or take unfair advantage of you. If you believe a debt collector, or agency they represent, has acted outside of their boundaries, you are within your rights to take action.
Violent or threatening behaviour is never acceptable; immediately contact the police. Alternatively, if the collectors are intimidating
with Robert Goudie CFP GradDipFP Consortium Private Wealth
or harassing you, write to them or their agency to report the behaviour and request it be stopped. If this does not work, reach out to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority on 1800 931 678 for advice.
Debt collectors aside, you must take action to manage your debt. No debt ever went away because it was ignored, but there are ways to dial down the pressure.
Following are steps you can take to get started:
• Make a list of all your obligations. Scary, sure, but knowing what you owe is the first rung on the ladder out of the red and into the black.
• Contact your mortgagee – nobody wins if you cannot pay your mortgage; they will help you set up a manageable payment plan until you are back on your feet.
• Contact utilities companies. Again, they will help you set up a payment plan.
• Seek help via the National Debt Helpline –1800 007 007 – or through the government’s MoneySmart.gov.au website.
You can also seek professional assistance from a qualified financial adviser. They will work with you to create a realistic strategy for managing your expenses and guide you in developing a plan to move forward and eliminate debt.
Debt can be debilitating and seem overwhelming, but by understanding your rights, knowing where you stand financially and seeking professional advice and support, you can take back control of your finances and look towards a comfortable financial future.
• The information in this article is general in nature only and does not constitute personal financial advice.
OPPORTUNITY: Grampians Community Health quality and engagement program leader Kerry Heinrich is calling for participants to help guide health and social services delivery across the region.
Grampians Community Health and La Trobe University researchers are encouraging Grampians and Wimmera residents to have their say on local community health services as part of a new research program.
La Trobe University will host client consultation sessions in Horsham and Stawell next week, with researchers encouraging local people to share their experiences.
The sessions will focus on what community health services and supports are most important to people’s health and wellbeing, barriers preventing people from accessing health and social support, people’s experience in accessing health and welfare information and support during emergencies, and what health and community services could do to better support people during those events.
Grampians Community Health quality and engagement program leader Kerry Heinrich said the program would help researchers learn more about local experiences of rural
community health care. “Understanding the experiences of rural health consumers and the key issues they face will improve community health service delivery and inform the types of services Grampians Community Health provides,” she said.
The feedback will help guide Grampians Community Health’s decision-making and its delivery of health and social services.
People with experience as rural community health clients can take part in the group discussions, which will be for up to 90 minutes from 4pm on October 17 at Grampians Community Health, 70-72 Hamilton Street Horsham, and from 10am on October 18 at Stawell Health and Community Centre, 8-22 Patrick Street.
Participants will be offered a $60 gift voucher for their time.
People interested in participating in the study can contact Ms Heinrich on 5358 7400 or kerry.heinrich@gch.org.au.
EGHS Home Support provides community based aged care and HACC services to people living in Ararat Rural City.
These services include personal care, domestic assistance, shopping assistance, exible respite, home maintenance, home modi cation and meals on wheels.
These services play a vital role in improving the health and wellbeing of our community and enable people to stay in their own homes safely and well for longer.
Services operate Monday to Friday 8am-5pm.
For further information, please call Janelle Smith, Manager EGHS@Home 5352 9556.
Former Horsham High school teacher Valrie Finch died on September 10, 2024 in Melbourne, aged 92
Valrie was born at Kaniva, 30 kilometres from the family wheat and sheep farm at Sandsmere.
She rode her horse to a small oneteacher primary school in the bush in the Mallee. It was there she got her first taste of teaching by helping other children.
Valrie played school football because there were too few boys for teams.
She attended Nhill High School before gaining a studentship to study at the University of Melbourne to become a secondary teacher.
She lived in the secondary teachers’ hostel in Dandenong Road –Frank Tate House.
Her first permanent teaching appointment was at Drouin, in Gippsland, where she taught her senior classes in a hall divided by a curtain from lively kindergarten girls and boys on the other side.
It was there she met librarian Alan Finch, becoming engaged three weeks later.
In over 60 years of marriage, Valrie collaborated with Alan on many literature and history projects.
This included publishing books, a local history magazine, Wimmera district and family histories, and running writing workshops.
And in her copious spare time, in an average week, Valrie read two or three books.
After having four children, Valrie started teaching again, at Horsham
High School, becoming head of the English department in the early 1990s.
Her main subjects were English and French, but she capably taught many other subjects.
In 1991, she established the annual Val Finch Writing Award for student writing. She retired after 22 years, when high and technical schools merged to form Horsham College.
Valrie had a strong interest in arts and crafts; there was always something new to be made, or a
REMEMBERED: Life-long educator Valrie Finch on the job in 1956, above, and during retirement, left.
new skill to be learnt, from tatting to lead lighting.
Among her many diverse interests were quilt-making, bobbin lacemaking, and compiling cryptic crossword puzzles.
She passed her skills to many other people, both informally and through special workshops.
Valrie spent many happy hours as part of Wimmera Patchwork Quilters and Wimmera Spinners and Weavers.
She was a committee member of the former Wimmera Wool Factory, and the Horsham Learning Centre known as Hub.
After retirement, she continued teaching a variety of language and
craft-related courses at the Hub and U3A. She judged many local writing competitions.
Valrie and Alan moved to Vectis in 1974 and lived there for more than 40 years.
Valrie loved living in the rural bush environment, reminiscent of her childhood home, and the community she found there.
Throughout her life, Valrie enhanced the lives of many people through her teaching, mentoring and friendship.
Her husband Alan and son Tim pre-deceased her.
Her surviving children are Sue, Chris and Jon.
There are nine grandchildren.
A Wimmera Pulse Agronomy Field Day at Rupanyup will focus on increasing pulse crop profitability, with industry specialists to present the latest in breeding and agronomic advances for lentil, chickpea, faba bean and vetch.
Hosted by Agriculture Victoria and supported by Frontier Farming Systems and Grains Research and Development Co-operation, farmers, agronomists and industry representatives are invited to attend the day.
Agriculture Victoria senior research agronomist Audrey Delahunty said growers would have a first-hand look at the latest locally validated research to help them maximise their pulse crops production.
“This is real, in-the-field, practical research that will directly benefit local growers,” she said. The event will showcase several new field pea and lentil varieties and include information about herbicide tolerance traits, disease management, frost and heat mitigation and marketing opportunities for pulses.
There will also be a panel session with industry experts from GRDC and McCullen Consulting, focusing on chemical use patterns and managing residues.
The free event starts at 9am on Wednesday, October 30 and will conclude at noon with lunch. Tickets are available from Trybooking at www. trybooking.com/events/landing/1293887.
Further updates will be available on Agriculture Victoria’s website, agriculture.vic.gov.au/events.
ACT Natimuk’s Creative Lab program’s Becoming Nala book and exhibition will launch in the town’s The Goat Gallery next month.
Telling the story of Moonahcullah, Wathaurong, Yorta-Yorta Elder Alan Murphy’s discovery of his connection to country roots in Moonahcullah, the book includes Mr Murphy’s artwork, photos by Mat Dooling, and storytelling by Wotjobaluk woman Chrissie Seacombe.
The launch is from 4pm to 5.30pm on Saturday, November 2.
$15B
967
36
MINE LIFE including construction, operations and rehabilitation phases
OPERATIONS JOBS
created directly and indirectly for Victoria across a range of industries
$3.5B
GROSS STATE REVENUE in Victoria across a range of industries during the operations phase
in the Wimmera Southern Mallee region during the operations phase
WIM remains strongly committed to the Avonbank Project and the community in which we operate. Avonbank will provide hundreds of job opportunities for Wimmera locals and inject hundreds of millions of dollars into the regional economy every year. To showcase the positive economic contribution the Avonbank Project will have for the state and regional economy, we released our new WIM Video Series. Economic benefits include approximately
WIM’s new ‘Video Series’ highlights the economic contribution of the Avonbank Mine to Victoria. Over its 36-year life, the mine will create hundreds of jobs, support local business, and help retain young people in regional Victoria.
View the video at www vimeo.com/1014554845 or scan the QR code
WIM has demonstrated that the Avonbank Project land can be returned to productive farmland. Lentils were sown at the test pit site for 2024, marking four years of successful crops having been grown. We look forward to monitoring the test pit site.
1,000 jobs created and supported annually, and $15 billion in Gross State Product. WIM looks forward to continuing engagement with local businesses and residents in the region so that they too can benefit from the Avonbank mine. We remain committed to numerous community partnerships and sponsorships throughout the region and are proud to support the community in which we operate by doing so. WIM’s support for the Defying the Drift
The annual Mallee Machinery Field Days, was held on 31 July and 1 August. As part of our ongoing commitment to engage with the wider community, WIM continues to show support for this key community event. The WIM project information stand attracted steady interest from patrons over two days.
WIM continues as Gold Sponsor of Rotary District 9780’s Defying the Drift initiative.
This year’s three day program saw over thirty Year 10 and 11 students engage in farm tours, agri-business showcases and meet with local rural industry leaders.
WIM was invited to the formal dinner on the final night of the program to celebrate the success of the participants and everyone involved in Defying the Drift.
WIM proudly sponsors the Western Victoria Careers Expo, now in its 38th year.
Attracting over 1,000 secondary students and hundreds of interested patrons, the Careers Expo is one of the largest events of its type in Victoria.
The WIM stand provided project information and details on career opportunities in mining, with the mini spiral separator machine a popular addition this year.
As well as interactive displays and take-home materials, WIM presented a seminar discussing career opportunities within the mining and resources industry.
program and for the Western Victorian Careers Expo continues. Additionally, we announced a new partnership with the Rotary Club of Horsham East for the upcoming Wimmera Art Fair. Whilst we wait for an EES decision, WIM continues to welcome any community member to visit us at our Community Hub to learn facts about the Avonbank mine or you can visit our website for further information.
Michael Winternitz,
Director of Projects
WIM is now the Premium sponsor of the Wimmera Art Fair, hosted by the Rotary Club of Horsham East. We look forward to supporting the local talent showcased this October.
WIM have relocated our Community Information Hub to 83 Firebrace Street, Horsham. The WIM Hub is a great community resource available to the public to drop in and learn facts about Avonbank and the mineral sands industry.
For all media enquiries please contact Michael Winternitz mwinternitz@wimresource.com.au For opportunities for a project overview to your local club or organisation, contact Murray Wilson mwilson@wimresource.com.au or 1800 959 298. For updates, follow us on Facebook @WIMResource or visit www.wimresource.com.au
Country Fire Authority representatives will offer Spring Garden and Lifestyle Festivalgoers information on staying safer during the coming fire season –including how people can grow a firewise garden around their home.
Vegetation management officer Josh Hodges will speak at the showcase on Sunday.
“I will talk about individual property preparation for bushfires and vegetation management around that,” he said.
“l will talk about native grasses and the firewise plant list – plants that are low flammability that can be planted around houses.
“There will be a broad discussion around planned burning, too.”
Mr Hodges has been in his vegetation management role at Horsham for
two years, where he organises planned burns, writes burn plans, undertakes environmental and heritage approvals, and applies for permits.
He worked as an ecologist for four years, has a doctorate in fire ecology, and is also a volunteer firefighter.
People will have the opportunity to ask questions of Mr Hodges and CFA community engagement co-ordinator
Jenny McGennisken at the festival.
Mrs McGennisken said people could visit the CFA stand throughout the weekend, where they would find information pamphlets to take home.
“We’ll have information on vegetation management around the home, and the outlook for the season that’s coming – anything in general,” she said.
“People can also visit us to find out information about the best types of plants for landscaping for bushfire risk
reduction, in both rural and suburban areas.
“Although all plants will burn under the right conditions, some plants are less likely to catch fire than others.
“Choosing plants with low flam-
mability and positioning them in ideal positions will help reduce bushfire risk within a garden.”
Mrs McGennisken said planting design and plant selection for bushfire could help reduce the effects of direct
Warracknabeal’s Scott and Kate Morgan are well-known for their handcrafted beeswax candles, but they also produce a range of sustainable garden products.
Both are made in Warracknabeal, where the couple practices organic gardening and permaculture.
Mrs Morgan said this time of year was ideal for adding nutrients to garden beds.
“As spring blooms, it’s time to enrich your garden with natural products,” she said.
“Mealworm frass – a nutrient-rich byproduct of mealworms – is packed with nitrogen, chitin, and beneficial microbes.
“It promotes plant growth and pest resistance, making it perfect for indoor and outdoor use.”
Worm castings, the organic waste produced by worms, are full of essential nutrients and beneficial bacteria.
The castings improve soil structure, moisture retention and root health, providing long-lasting benefits for plants.
“Mealworm frass gives our plants
Scott
exactly what they need without the harshness of synthetic fertilisers,” Mrs Morgan said.
“Worm castings add so much life
back into the soil, which is what we strive for in permaculture.”
People can find the Morgans’ beeswax candles and sustainable garden
in Horsham Botanic Gardens.
flame contact and radiant heat on a house.
People can find the CFA stand next to Ambulance Victoria at the Horsham Spring Garden and Living Festival.
The festival opens at 9am and closes at 4pm both days.
Saturday 1pm: Ambulance Victoria demonstration.
10.30am and 2pm: Fair Dinkum Fauna presentation.
Sunday
9.30am: Fair Dinkum Fauna. 11am: Ambulance Victoria. 1pm: Fair Dinkum Fauna.
1.30pm: CFA guest speaker Josh Hodges
3.30pm: Raffle drawn Exhibits and traders Wimmera Aquatrail; Lop the Top Tree Service; Wimmera Bushwalking Club; Horsham Paws; Fair Dinkum Fauna; Smallaire; Narrow Road Living; Natives By Nat; Living and Poolwerx Horsham; Warracknabeal Pottery.
Food
Timboon Fine Ice-cream; BB’sque; Spuddy Good; Haven school barbecue and drinks.
Entertainment
Natimuk Brass Band; Horsham Rural City Band; Horsham Pipe Band.
BY BRONWYN HASTINGS
Horsham Spring Garden and Lifestyle Festival will showcase outdoor living and lifestyle options from a variety of local businesses, from traditional gardening and sustainability to smart gardening and how to save a life.
The 34th annual event will bring entertainment in the form of live music, and food options will include something for all tastes, from baked potatoes to barbecued meats, and icecream.
Presentations and demonstrations will educate and entertain, while traders will showcase their wares while inspiring gardeners and outdoor living enthusiasts of all designs.
Country Fire Authority vegetation management officer Josh Hodges will speak on Sunday about making homes safer during fire season.
“I’ll talk about individual property preparation for bushfires, and vegetation management around that,” he said.
“I’ll also talk about native grasses and the firewise plant list – plants that should be of low flammability, and that can be planted around houses to lower fire risk.”
Mr Hodges said there would also be a broad discussion about planned burning, and there would be time for people to ask questions.
A native wildlife demonstration by Fair Dinkum Fauna will also be a highlight, with Horsham-based
of Living and Poolwerx Horsham and Fair Dinkum Fauna owners Neve Lawson and Michael Lloyd, prepare for the Horsham Spring Garden and Lifestyle Festival. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER
owners Michael Lloyd and Neve Lawson.
Providers of native animal incursions and interactive displays, they will present to festival-goers twice on Saturday and twice on Sunday.
Ambulance Victoria paramedics will promote the Shocktober campaign, which aims to educate people on the three steps to improve cardiac arrest survival rates – Call, Push, Shock –calling Triple Zero, applying CPR,
and using an automated external defibrillator, AED.
Ambulance Victoria Grampians regional director Steve Doyle said people did not have to be paramedics to save a life.
“Every minute matters in a cardiac arrest and when a patient receives CPR and a shock from an AED before paramedics arrive, their chance of survival more than doubles,” he said.
“Last year, paramedics responded to
“Last year, paramedics responded to a record 7830 cardiac arrest patients, and there was also a record amount of bystander intervention”
– Steve Doyle
Exhibitor Living and Poolwerx Horsham part-owner Grace Dixon said she would display the latest trends in outdoor living – and relaxing.
“We’re going to bring along some furniture, including our extendable tables, which are really popular at the moment, and our reclinable chairs, which are so loungy, and really lovely,” she said.
“And, depending on the weather, we hope to bring a spa for people to see.” Animal rescue and rehoming group Horsham Paws will also exhibit to promote their work in responsible pet ownership and improving the welfare of lost, abandoned and relinquished animals in the Horsham area.
a record 7830 cardiac arrest patients, and there was also a record amount of bystander intervention.
“Anyone can perform CPR and use an AED – you don’t need training or to be qualified.
“If someone is in cardiac arrest and an AED is available, simply open it and follow the instructions.”
Paramedics will demonstrate these life-saving skills at 1pm on Saturday and 11am on Sunday.
Three prizes will be raffled at the festival – including Mitre 10 goods and a wheelbarrow valued at $700 as first prize, a $350 Living and Poolwerx Horsham voucher as second prize, and Gulf Western Oils products valued at $120 from Wimmera Mallee Ag as the third prize.
The festival is on Saturday and Sunday, from 9am to 4pm both days.
12 & 13, 2024 @ Horsham Botanic Gardens 9am-4pm Featuring a vibrant display of blooming flowers, plants and outdoor living displays.
Guest Speakers::
CFA – Dr Joshua Hodges, CFA Vegetation Management O cer –Presentation on Vegetation Management and property preparation. Information on Fire wise species of grasses and plants.
Ambulance Vic – Topics will include: calling 000, cardiac health, thunderstorm asthma, snake and insect bites / stings amongst our summer campaign of preparing for the heat.
Fair Dinkum Fauna – will discuss the native animals we will see in our garden and how they can benefit our garden and surrounds The festival also includes sustainable lifestyle focused exhibits, demonstrations, and presentations, promoting eco-friendly and sustainable gardening practices. FREE ENTRY FOR CHILDREN ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT
SHOWCASE:
Horsham and District Orchid Society hosted its annual spring show at the weekend. Attendees were treated to a colourful showcase, with many awards presented throughout the event. Pictured are, clockwise from above: Natalie Lewis, who won best display novice and the Proctor Family award; Lynne Smith and Nola Klemm; Violet Willmore, Jacqui Willmore and Kiara Rook; and Judith Jones. Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER
BY BRONWYN HASTINGS
Wimmera Aquatrail will showcase part of its landscaping, irrigation and garden accent ranges at this year’s Horsham Spring Garden and Lifestyle Festival – together with its staff members, whose years of experience and knowledge assist people with tried and true solutions.
Wimmera Aquatrail manager Adam Brockenbrow said people would be able to buy a range of vegetable seedlings from the festival to be planted this month.
“People will be able to enjoy a range of home-grown tomatoes, lettuces, carrots, broccoli, peas – and more – in the coming months,” he said.
“We’ll also have a range of plants for garden colour, as well as pots and garden ornaments – there’s always something new in our pots and water features, they change from one year to the next.
“The variety of styles and sizes of pots makes them versatile for indoor or outdoor use.”
From outdoors to indoors and everything inbetween – Wimmera Aquatrail also has a variety of plants and other features suitable for ferneries and pergola areas.
“We have all the bases covered – if people want native gardens, English gardens, screening plants or edibles, or if they want landscaping supplies like mulches and composts, we can help,” Mr Brockenbrow said.
“People can revitalise their veggie beds from last year and get them all up and going with our planting compost, mushroom compost, cow manure, and we blend our own soils as well.”
Wimmera Aquatrail also has a range of landscaping supplies, decorative bark and rocks, as well as sand for sandpits.
People can garden smarter, not harder, with a range of vegepods.
“Vegepods come in three sizes and are fully self-contained,” Mr Brockenbrow said.
“They have an internal water reservoir that acts like a wicking bed, you just click your hose in and it does it all for you.
“Even during our summer, it will keep enough moisture in there for a week.
“You can grow things like strawberries and low-growing veggies in there and they’re protected from insects and other pests by a cover.”
Vegepods can be used with or without a stand. They are portable, stop
“We’ve been involved in it for ever and a day. Myself and the previous two managers have all been on the festival committee at some stage. We’re all invested in the community”
– Adam Brockenbrow
contamination, are easy to fill and maintain, and can extend growing seasons and accelerate plant growth.
Wimmera Aquatrail will also feature the work of metal designer and sculptor Marty Knight, who stocks his Knight Innovations works at the Apricot Avenue business.
Mr Brockenbrow said Wimmera Aquatrail had a long involvement with Horsham Spring Garden and Lifestyle Festival.
“We’ve been involved in it for ever and a day,” he said.
“Myself and the previous two managers have all been on the festival committee at some stage.
“We’re all invested in the community – in what the festival brings to the town, and what it brings to the businesses and in supporting the community as well.”
People can find seasonal hints and tips on Wimmera Aquatrail’s Facebook page, and a full list of products and services the team offers at www. wathorsham.com.au.
“We’ve got pretty much whatever you need for your garden at this time of year,” Mr Brockenbrow said.
Ambulance
Victoria will show festivalgoers how its annual Shocktober campaign can improve cardiac arrest survival rates in three steps – Call, Push, Shock.
Highlighting the importance of learning cardiopulmonary resuscitation, CPR, and how to use an automated external defibrillator, AED, paramedics will give demonstrations across the event’s two days.
Bystander intervention has the greatest impact on someone’s chance of surviving cardiac arrest – about 21 Victorian people suffer a cardiac arrest every day, but statistically, only two of those are expected to survive.
Ambulance Victoria Grampians regional director Steve Doyle said people did not have to be paramedics to save a life – it is as easy as calling triple zero, pushing hard and fast in the middle of the person’s chest and if available, using an AED to deliver a shock.
“Every minute matters in a cardiac arrest and when a patient receives CPR and a shock from an AED before paramedics arrive, their chance of survival more than doubles,” he said.
“Last year, paramedics responded to a record 7830 cardiac arrest patients but there was also a record amount of bystander intervention.
“Anyone can perform CPR and use an AED –you don’t need training or to be qualified.
“If someone is in cardiac arrest and an AED is available, simply open it and follow the instructions.”
Mr Doyle said people could also register to be a GoodSAM responder.
“GoodSAM is a smartphone app that connects patients in cardiac arrest with members of the community who are willing to start CPR in the critical minutes before paramedics arrive,” he said.
“We have about 16,000 GoodSAM responders across the state, but we always need more.
“You don’t have to be first aid qualified, you just have to be willing to perform hands-only CPR and be over 18 years old.
“Last Shocktober, we saw more than 600 people sign up as GoodSAM responders, so this October, please join the cause and register.”
Businesses, shop owners and sports clubs are also encouraged to ensure their AEDs are registered with the Ambulance Victoria website and made publicly accessible, so triple zero calltakers can direct people to it in an emergency.
For more information about Shocktober, the GoodSAM app and how to perform CPR and use an AED, visit www.ambulance.vic.gov.au/ shocktober.
To register a publicly accessible AED, visit registermyaed.ambulance.vic.gov.au.
Australia has set an all-time new car sales record this month, the market totalling more than 900,000 units to the end of the third quarter, with September’s figures adding 97,020 units to the tally.
However, the market is down 12.4 per cent month-on-month against September 2023, indicating that challenging economic times are making their presence felt.
Across 24.6 selling days this September, Australians purchased an average of 3943.9 vehicles per day, down 380.4 vehicles on last year’s result.
VFACTS data shows the passenger vehicle market is down by 4123 units, or 22.2 per cent, over the same month
last year, the SUV market down 7612 vehicles or 11.9 per cent, and the light commercial vehicle market down 2225 units or 9.4 per cent.
The heavy commercial vehicle market remains buoyant with sales up 278 units, or 6.5 per cent against the same time last year.
Toyota again ruled the roost in September, leading the market with sales of 18,110 units, or 9807 units and 10.1 market share points over Ford with 8303 unit sales.
Mazda placed third with 8201 unit sales ahead of Kia with 7650, and Mitsubishi, 6130.
The Toyota RAV4 was once more Australia’s most popular new car with sales of 5182 units, followed by the Ford Ranger with 4485, Toyota HiLux, 4313, Ford Everest, 2902, and
Isuzu D-Max. Across the country, all states and territories were down when compared with the same time last year, excluding the Northern Territory, up 5.6 per cent to 910 units.
The Australian Capital Territory was down 23.1 per cent to 1388 units, New South Wales down 16.8 per cent to 29,943 units, Queensland down 8.3 per cent to 21,481 units, South Australia down 3.8 per cent to 6420 units, Tasmania down 11.1 per cent to 1754 units, Victoria down 16.5 per cent to 24,573 units, and Western Australia down 0.2 per cent to 10,551.
Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries chief executive Tony Weber said during the early part of the year the industry witnessed record numbers.
“However, the September result
New vehicle sales top 900,000 for the first time
shows the state of the economy is impacting purchasing intentions,” he said.
Mr Weber said it was likely the final quarter of 2024 would continue to show clear customer preferences to SUV and light commercial vehicles, as was the case in September.
“SUVs and utes remain the vehicle of choice for about 80 per cent of new car buyers” he said.
“Nine of the top 10 vehicles sold during September were in the medium or large SUV or light commercial segments.
“By contrast, the passenger segment was less than 15 per cent of the market.
“Across the board, customers are showing a willingness to take steps towards lower emission vehicles with
sales of hybrid and plug-in hybrid continuing to increase.
“Recorded sales of battery electric vehicles are again disappointing this month.
“This is in spite of a strong supply of EVs and the addition of a number of new brands and models being introduced into the Australian market.
“It is important to note that right now EVs are concentrated in limited market segments such as passenger medium, and small and medium SUVs.
“This trend in lower EV sales and increased hybrid and plug-in hybrids is reflected in markets across the world as production and purchase incentives are being wound back.”
– Matt Brogan
For half a century, we’ve been committed to delivering top-notch vehicles, unparalleled service, and innovative solutions to keep you on the road with confidence. Join us as we celebrate this golden anniversary, we’re rolling out exclusive deals and exciting giveaways throughout the month.
Come by and be part of the celebration! Thank you for being a vital part of our journey.
Here’s to 50 years of driving forward –and many more to come!
Fit the numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 into the hexagons so that where the hexagons touch, the numbers will be the same. No number is repeated in any hexagon.
Fit the given numbers into the hexagons so that where the hexagons touch, the numbers will be the same No number is repeated in any hexagon
© bmpuzzles Distributed by Knight Features
From The Weekly Advertiser archives: October 14, 2004 –Pimpinio toddler Beth Porter, 17 months, is pictured climbing through the ‘worm’ at Horsham Plaza. Horsham Kindergym’s display promoted the program, which gave children the opportunity to use hoops, tunnels, trampolines, boxes, slides and swings, each Wednesday at Horsham Youth Centre.
10 years ago: October 8, 2014
Baker James Henwood of Horsham’s Oven Door Bakery broke the Guiness World Record for the world’s largest vanilla slice. Spending nine hours on the delicacy at the Horsham Show, Mr Henwood eclipsed the 2012 record by 169.65 kilograms – it weighed in at 677.76 kilograms.
Five years ago: October 9, 2019
Ararat Rural City Council took over management of Ararat Fitness Centre, which included Ararat Outdoor Olympic Pool and the Willaura and Lake Bolac swimming pools. Council chief executive Tim Harrison said there would be no interruption to services, operating hours or fees and charges, and council would seek grants to offset the cost of upgrade projects. Draft plans for the upgrades were to be presented to stakeholders and centre users for feedback by the end of that year.
One year ago: October 11, 2023
Jeparit residents – current and former – were invited to reconnect with the town and its story at a three-day weekend of events, including the golf club’s 115th anniversary and the agricultural show’s 125th. Reconnect committee member Paul Bell said it was so named because it was about people’s journey in Jeparit and bringing them back for the weekend. “Every person who I have spoken to who grew up in Jeparit loves it and has good memories of the town,” he said.
1. Which singer songwriter, who was born on this day in 1940, achieved musical success in a group, as a soloist – and to a degree with his second wife – ranked in Rolling Stone’s 2008 100 greatest singers of all time list, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, before being killed in New York in 1980?
2. Coulrophobia is the fear of what?
3. Which mathematician first said the world was not flat, but a sphere?
4. Who was the first time-traveller in the movie Back to the Future?
5. Which country has the most volcanic activity in the world?
6. What does Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and James Bond have in common?
7. At the Taj Mahal there is a bench named after someone –who?
8. A maths question – a bag of grass seed covers five square metres. How many bags would you need for a space 10 metres by four metres?
9. Where does the official Oktoberfest celebration take place each year?
10. Dying on this day in 2013 from liver cancer at the age of 58, was which Australian crime author and criminal?
Answers: 1. John Lennon. 2. Clowns. 3. Pythagoras. 4. Einstein, Doc Brown’s dog. 5. Indonesia. 6. Both were written by Ian Fleming. 7. Princess Diana. 8. Eight bags. 9. Munich, Germany. 10. Mark ‘Chopper’ Read.
Getting in touch with The Weekly
Our office is at 2 Stawell Road, Horsham. Mail: PO Box 606, Horsham 3402. Telephone: 5382 1351
Website: www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au Email: weeklyadvertiser@team.aceradio.com.au For classified advertisements: 5382 1351 – email: horsham@aceradio.com.au
Advertising 5382 1351: Mark Sulic: marks@team.aceradio.com.au; Lee Meadows: leem@team.aceradio.com.au; Michelle Reid: mreid@aceradio.com.au; Danica Cutter: dcutter@aceradio.com.au; Heidi Higginson: heidih@aceradio.com.au; Lily Olver: lolver@aceradio.com.au
Newsroom 5382 1351: Lauren Henry: lhenry@aceradio.com.au; Bronwyn Hastings: bhastings@aceradio.com.au; Georgia Bailey: georgiab@team.aceradio.com.au
FOR THE WEEK OCTOBER 12 TO OCTOBER 18 ARIES: (March 21-April 20)
7.8.9.3.
4.12.23.24.35.41. Your romantic affairs are taking a turn for the better, with plenty of sparkle and hot passions. All this heavy attention may leave you a bit bewildered at first, but then you start taking part in the games. Don’t take anything for granted when it comes to career matters. Take charge and make sure everything is in writing.
TAURUS: (April 21-May 20)
Lucky Colour: Red Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 7.8.9.3. Lotto Numbers: 1.6.8.23.35.22. An old flame is reappearing in your love life, and you will have the chance to rekindle the passionate feelings from the past. You could make it into a permanent relationship or just a nice bit on the side. More travel is indicated, which will be very rewarding. Tie up any loose ends.
GEMINI: (May 21-June 21)
Lucky Colour: Silver Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 6.3.4.6. Lotto Numbers: 3.5.45.13.39.40.
The goddess of love has chosen you for special attention, and you can really let yourself go and indulge. Differences from the past can now be smoothed over with a lover. At work, be tactful and don’t take any risks with other people’s feelings.
CANCER: (June 22-July 22)
Lucky Colour: Orange Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 7.3.1.5. Lotto Numbers: 6.12.24.34.45.11.
Your love-life has hit a bit of a snag lately. You are feeling a bit left out, and turning down any social invitations isn’t going to help the situation. Luckily, this is only a temporary period, and later on, you can make up for lost time with cosy evenings in front of a roaring fire with your new love.
LEO: (July 23-August 22)
Lucky Colour: Green Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 9.7.6.4. Lotto Numbers: 9.4.5.45.33.21.
Many will meet the love of their dreams through friends at a social gathering. Those already provided with a lover will experience a new surge of romance with their existing partner. Keep a tight rein on the purse strings.
VIRGO: (August 23-September 23)
Lucky Colour: Lilac Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 6.7.3.4. Lotto Numbers: 2.13.24.34.41.11.
Many will find themselves in demand at work and social events. So now is the time to ask for favours from the boss or people who can help you in your career. Be careful of a new romantic interlude; it may not be what it looks like on the surface.
LIBRA: (September 24-October 23)
Lucky Colour: Cream Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 8.9.5.4 Lotto Numbers: 1.14.23.34.42.33.
The chance to achieve one of your life ambitions is indicated by being able to make the right contacts. Many will be making commitments to that special someone.
SCORPIO: (October 24-November 22)
Lucky Colour: Violet Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 2.4.3.7. Lotto Numbers: 2.4.12.23.31.22.
A successful period with a lot of action is indicated. A chance meeting could solve a mystery. However, don’t overdo the spending to impress.
SAGITTARIUS: (November 23-December 20)
Lucky Colour: Green
Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 8.9.3.4. Lotto Numbers: 5.12.23.34.45.
There will be a tendency to overspend and act very impulsively. For the single, there is an unexpected new relationship, and for the rest, there is a more exciting love-life.
CAPRICORN: (December 21-January 19)
Lucky Colour: Blue
Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 8.4.5.6. Lotto Numbers: 1.13.24.34.42.22.
In any financial venture or opportunity, it is best to consider all angles carefully before proceeding. A job offer could be a surprise and a more exciting social life.
AQUARIUS: (January 20-February 19)
Lucky Colour: Red
Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 4.5.6.2. Lotto Numbers: 1.3.12.24.34.45.
It will be harder to hold on to your money. A few unexpected debts are indicated. Many could be repairing a relationship, and the outcome could relieve a lot of pressure.
PISCES: (February 20-March 20)
Lucky Colour: Silver
Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 7.8.3.4. Lotto Numbers: 2.13.23.34.41.11.
Watch the tendency to spend lavishly on things you don’t need or people you don’t particularly like. Your relationship could need more patience to keep the peace. Someone could suddenly appear in your life and spark up the romance.
Horsham Autotech, Autoair and Exhaust Centre are your trusted locally owned company situated at 45-47 Dimboola Road, Horsham.
Owners Gary Smith and Michael Smith and their professional team offer every mechanical solution for your vehicle.
From servicing and parts, specialist brake repairs, exhaust systems, roadworthy certificates, air-conditioning systems and boat maintenance Horsham Autotech has you covered.
The trained staff use the latest specialised computer diagnostic tools leading to effective repairs on all modern vehicles. They are one of the largest stockists of batteries in the region. Their range caters to all types of small vehicles to large machinery.
A mobile air-conditioning servicing and repairs unit comes to your plant or equipment on-site to service and repair airconditioners in any vehicle including farming, agricultural or industrial machinery. Horsham Autotech, Autoair and Exhaust Centre are ready to service your vehicle and are open Monday to Friday. Call us on 5382 2622 today.
Based on unprecedented reader and listener demand, we encourage regional tradebased businesses to become part of The Weekly Advertiserʼs Local Trade Directory. The Local Trade Directory offers the only true multi-media platform combining print, radio and online services for businesses to ʻspread the wordʼ in across the Wimmera, Mallee and Grampians. It’s affordable and effective!
(as above) PLUS... Receive
and 3WM throughout
WARD, John Kenneth ‘Finn’
Passed away on October 1, 2024 aged 88 years.
Dearly loved husband of Norma (dec).
Much love for a special 80th birthday on the 10th. Jill,
Big Hugs
Jeanette, XOXO
BELL, Valma June
12-11-1929 to 28-9-2024
Loved wife of Les (dec).
Much loved Mum to Joanne, Vicki, Stephen, Zane & Roderick.
Cherished Nan to 15 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren.
As was the family’s wishes, Valma was farewelled at a private funeral service and interment.
Treasured memories forever in our hearts
Horsham & District Funerals
Dylan & Amity Hartwich 5382 1149
SLEEP, Robert Ronald “Bob”
Passed away suddenly on 30 September 2024, aged 91 years.
Dearly loved husband of Elaine (dec) and Phyllis (dec).
Remembered by sons Graeme and Stephen (dec) and daughters-in-law Michelle and Anne.
Brothers and sisters Alice, Stan, Dorothy, Alfred, John, Geoffrey (all dec) and Peter.
10 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.
Stepchildren Harry, Simon, Michael, Mary-Anne and their partners Amaya, Liza, Susan and Keith.
Remembered in many ways
Now Resting in Peace
Loving father and father in law of Steve & Colleen; Al & Kerrie; Cathie; Sheryl & Graham; Kim & Mark; and James (dec).
Adored Pop to all of his grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Reunited with loved ones
WARD,
John Kenneth (Finn)
26.7.1936 - 1.10.2024
Much loved stepfather of Sheryle & Graham.
Pop of Whitney & Ronnie, Janelle & Julien and Poppy Ward of Jackson, Xavier and Brodie.
Although we cannot see you, Your hands we cannot touch, Your smile never forgotten, You are loved and missed so very much.
SLEEP
Robert Ronald “Bob”
The Funeral of Bob Sleep will take place at the Horsham Church of Christ on Monday, 14 October 2024 commencing at 2pm and will be followed by burial at the Horsham Lawn Cemetery.
Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member
WARD, John Kenneth ‘Finn’
The Funeral of John Kenneth ‘Finn’ Ward will take place at The Graveside, Dimboola Lawn Cemetery on Friday, 11 October 2024 commencing at 1.30pm.
Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member
Brian 11-10-2018
My heart does still go on with silent beats of missing you and loving you every day.
Big Hugs, Jeanette xoxo ❤
1 Honey Boy and 1 Black Girl
Spoodle available now to new Furever Families, both have been raised in a family environment on our farm, socialised with other dogs, cats, horses, live stock and chickens, They love cuddles, walks and time spent with you chilling in front of the fire, microchip
956000016666706/6579578
source# EE223376 $1500 girl
$1800 boy Ph 0400035456
3 Mini Dachshund x Mini Foxy
Male Pups , born May 23, 1 black/ tan 953010006753461, 1 chocolate 95301006753575, 1 brown dapple 953010006753667, source no MB255251, $1600 ONO Ph 0400083880
Birds for sale, princess parrots, cockatiels and bourkes, all colours Ph 0408535515 Stawell
Budgies, assorted colours $10 each Ph 0417533579
Budgies, pastel and standards $10 each Ph 0428010996 Horsham
German (Aust) Koolie pups, 2 red male pup, 1 red speckled male pup, all vaccinated / microchipped, microchip# 95600 0017131984/17181902/17166
017, source# MB258735, bred to work $500 Ph P Brown 53547632 or 0438522996 Ararat
Horse rug, 6 foot wanted Ph 0427361940
Kelpie pups, both parents are good workers, 1 black/ tan female & male, 2 red/tan male, dob 23/6/24, microchip# 956000018884980 /6575 /2051 /7524, source# MB256359 $500
Kildare Border Collies have a one remaining pure bred black and white female puppy for sale from our current litter at $1650, we have been breeding border collies for over 60 years, our puppies are bred true to type and have calm natures, they make excellent working dogs or family pets, she is 7 weeks of age, has a fun-loving nature and ready to find her forever home, she has been microchipped, vet checked, vaccinated and wormed, source# MB196330, microchip# 985141007722113, Ph Brendan Hogan, or Juls on 0429826899 for further information
Pair of Turks ready to breed, scarlet chested dilute/scarlet chested dilute opaline, incl new nest and carry box, $350 Ph 0492486058 Dimboola
Pembroke Corgi Pups , male & females, source# 262769, microchip 953010006873021, 953010006873006, 953010006857644 Ph 0400058264
REDUCED Border Collie pups, 3 male tan and white, microchip# 985141007722107/22108/21629, source# MB260070 $400 Ph 0407852509
Roosters for sale Ph 0423182267
Roosters, ducks and guinea fowl wanted to buy Ph 0469740723
Spit pigs $140 each, Salami pigs $350 each, extra large Ph 0427361940
Very pretty & young budgies, assorted colours, ready to go $10 each Ph 0423182267
Working Kelpie pups, 2m, 1f, dob 17/6/24, microchip# 978142000 129103//937/1520/1099 source# MB238602 $550 plus Gst Ph Tim 0491895301
1998 Jayco Westport , full annexe, a/c, oven, microwave, always shedded, many extras $18,000ono Ph 0419514118
2013 Jayco Starcraft, 21', one owner, very little use, as new, many added extras $42,000 Ph 0427909230
2013 Jurgens Lunagzer J24 , 6.3m/21', J2403, 2 berth, shower/ toilet, air con, diesel heater, always shedded, VGC $38,500 Ph 0418350445
2016 New Age Desert Rose, full
REDUCED 2018 Dingo Ultimate
Camper, heavy duty top of the line off-road trailer including boat rack, fully enclosed annexe including ensuite, lots of storage, built-in instant gas hot water to sink and shower, dual AGM batteries and built-in inverter and charger, innerspring mattress and ability to make up second double bed, two new off-road tyres, VGC, Y76535
$16,500ono Ph 0407360212
REDUCED 2018 Jayco Swan Camper, hardly used, as new, front & rear double beds, couch & table bed, can sleep 6 easily, battery pack, 4 Burner gas stove & grill, microwave, 3 way fridge, awning, lots of cupboards
$20,000ono, Ph 0427467622
Kaniva
REDUCED Isuzu Outback
Express Motorhome for sale, 2 seater, sleeps 3, 4ltr diesel engine, solar panels, auto, diesel, fridge, tv, shower, toilet, stove and lots more, have to see to believe, can drive on normal car licence, 3.1m long, RWC, $40,000 with 12mth rego and RWC Ph Phillip 0428173606 or Susan and ask for Phillp 0458727370 Horsham
REDUCED MDC Highside Cruiser 2019, 3 Ton McHitch, 110L fridge, excellent condition $11,500 Ph 0493394223
REDUCED Vintage 1964
Viscount Ambassador alumvan, excellent original condition, rewired to 240v, 14f, plus more $7500 ono Ph 0431820493
Toyota Coaster camper , 2 seater, diesel heater, 1hz motor, solar and 12v awning much more
$40,000 Ph 0418325662
1997 Hercules Tipper $76,000 plus Gst Ph 0428386295
2022 Mahindra 6110, 6 HP, front end loader, 4 in 1 bucket, FWA, a/c cab, balance of new warranty, 368 hrs on clock $45,800 Ph 0428349401
4080 Tractor, 3pl, GC $11,000 Ph 0419389693
CAT, 955 K traxcavator DROTT, ROPS, strong double ripper, GP bucket, D330T motor $35,000ono plus Gst Ph 0400603022
Cox ride on lawn mower $900 Ph 0407285097
REDUCED Versatile 555 Tractor, good working order $15,000 ono Ph 0493394223
Tractor Tyre , 1/2 the new price, 16.9 x 28, near new Ph 0353870522 AH or 0413073478
Tradesman trailer, off road $4500 Ph 0407285097
Trailing Grain Feeder , with canopy, good condition, $1100 Ph 0400894020
Carryall 6' x 3', suit type 1 + 3 3PL $150 Ph 0429491426
New Holland T8 360, 2250 hrs, one owner, non- smoker, never pulled an air-seeder, add blue switched off, linkage, UHF radio, auto steer ready, 50km box, excellent condition, upgraded to articulated, $270,000ono plus Gst $297,000 inc GST Ph 0418504408
1 Bridgestone Turanza Tyre , R35 55 R17, done 10,000kms $50 Ph0428504558
2 hand made Kennett step ladders , 4.2m high Ph 0419359501
4 x Falken 2 65=60R=18, as new
$800 Ph 0423967449
4KW 240V Generator, gauges and trolley $650 Ph 0428504558
A livemor electric massage chair and a proflex slider, $1100 ono for both Ph 0494077845
AMC Ride on Mower , latest model, excellent condition $1900ono Ph 0427822909
Craftsmen ZTS700 ride-on zero-turn mower, good condition, 21 hp engine, reconditioned spindle and deck, many hours left in this machine $2850 Ph Eddy 0428922335
Exercise treadmill, Tempo, VGC
$200 Ph 0427518053
Fuel tank , 1000ltrs $400 Ph 0419389693
Hot potato mobile van, bought new 2018, never used $980 ono Ph 0432544164
Kuvings whole slow juicer, very good condition, no further use $300 Ph 0408823136
Large collection of Arnott & Anzac tins, old and new, 5 antique plough seats, corner TV cabinet, all negotiable Ph 0427857510
Large quantity of second hand Merbau decking timber, 70mm, GC Ph 0353836242
LG Top Loading washing machine, works well $200 7 pc pine dining setting VGC, inc 2 sets of seat pads, $280 32" Hisense TV & mount, Treadmill, hardly used, GC $550 pair of directors chairs with side tables new $120 Ph 0409799375
Pine Posts S/H, good order, $5 each Ph 0429954000
Rare 1895 Furthy tank, both casts are in good condition $6000 Ph 0428519879
REDUCED Firescreen, 1300mm opening, 1700mm including wings, plus tool set, all in EC $150 Ph 0408504633
Stylish vintage 1930's/1940's radiogram, in need of restoration $100 ono Ph 0427545424
Tradies Trailer enclosed containing shelving storage, power points $680 ono Ph 0432544164
Wagner fine finish spray gun Ph 0419359501
Wagner Pro 20 spray gun, no use retired painter, S5 new tips 517 Ph 0419359501
Yamaha Inverter Generator , EF2800i, never used, $1500 Ph 0474099355
Mattress $250 , single bed blackwood $250, as new Ph 0437688336
Old wood burning stove, GC, located in Goroke, $500 ono Ph Mick 0400005266
Outdoor spa, sapphire, 5 person $4500 Ph 0407285097
The Weekly Advertiser welcomes your advertising. We are required strictly by law to include specific information on some items
BMW R1100 RT, EC, reg till 5/25, 123k kms, YD865 $4600 Ph 0409954491
Honda CTX200 Ag Bike , as new, 2900 kms, $2750 inc Gst Ph 0428405228
REDUCED BMW RT1200 Solo, 2007, Ex SA Police, GO, HGR, EWS, CC, RW cond, unregistered, service manuals $3000 Ph 0428154961
Yamaha Scooter, excellent condition, 6100km, RWC, 6 months reg, ideal for learner, $1800ono Ph 0408824739
1987 XF Falcon sedan S pack, manual, 5 speed gearbox, power steering. 181,000km, eng JG23HE97665C, $2500 Ph 0428501109
Ford XA 1972 era Panel Van with rust $1500 neg Ph 0428501109
2001 Savage 418 Kestrel SF, reg GG970, exp 18 Sep 2024, 30Hp, 2S Mercury motor, cover and canopy, dunbier gal trailer zeg U57972, exp 18 Sep 2024 all in very good condition $8250 Ph 0429924704
4.0m Stessl Aluminium
Runabout , on galvanised trailer, 25HP evinrude outboard motor, electric trolling motor, not used over 2 years, trailer reg V82175, boat reg DT917, serial # 09185405, $4000, Ph 0437899398
Shoprider Allrounder mobility scooter, 2yrs old, EC, hard canopy, weather proof fittings $4200 Ph 0419633821 Dimboola
Walker, 210kg, wider than normal, GC $220 Ph 0423967449
Ford XF Wagon,1985 6 cylinder $1000 Ph 0428501109
Mitsubishi Magna Elite sedan, 1990, cruise control, automatic, aircon, excellent condition, unregistered vin 6MMTP4X41LA051102 $3000 negotiable Ph 0428501109
1990 Nissan Patrol GQ 4.2petrol, 12months rego, 654000km, new tyres, JN1OWGY6OA0020221, 1YI5EW $10,000 neg Ph 0428501109
2001 Fairlane Ghia, AU11 series, meteorite colour, QFQ527 $3250 Ph53503220
2004 Honda Accord, 3.0L V6 auto, well equipped including sunroof and cruise control, rego til 28/1/25, good tyres, 132,000kms, SQW278 $6999 Ph 0409998004
Ph 0419821563
VW Toureg 2011 180 TDI auto, silver, one owner, good service history, one of few with low range transfer, centre & rear diff locks, no towing done, VGC, new tyres, reg till 2/25, YVD520 $10,500 Ph 0428528990
2003 Landcruiser, auto, factory turbo diesel, lots of accessories, HDJ100, 420,000km $29,500 Ph 0447159379
2014 Nissan Navara D22 2.5 turbo diesel 4X4 ute, registered until December with service books, low 91,600kms $22,500ono Ph 0492496448
2015 Nissan Navara, bbar, lbar, snkl, rrak, canopy, T-bar, ebrks, dbats, abags, 6spd man, 9mths reg, RWC, only 118,000kms, ADP699 $23990 Ph 0427423609
2019 Subaru Impreza Hatch back, AWD, glass electric sunroof, safety, comfort, Pearl White, EC, 40,000kms, 1PA8PJ $25000ono Ph 0427822909
2019 Toyota Hybrid Camry SL sedan, with all the luxury features of a top of the range Toyota, pearl white, full service history, RWC, 2AM8IL, $32,250 Ph Eddy 0428922335
2022 Isuzu Dmax X terrain Valencia orange for sale, 25,318 kms,still under new vehicle warranty until 2028 or 150,000 kms, 7 months rego, RWC, BVI103 $60,000 Ph 0438918240 Mazda BT 50 2021 dual cab, silver, fitted with ARB bull bar, driving lights, ascent canopy, rear step towbar, warranty 4/26, reg til 4/25, 4000kms 1NB5DX $48,500 Ph 0428528990
REDUCED Nissan Navarra , STX 4x4 2017, RWC, registered until July 2025, full leather seats, keyless entry, front heated seats, dual battery (in canopy), catch can, electronic breaks, small light bar, canopy airbags, 2" lift, dual Anderson plugs, tow bar, single owned, regularly serviced, regrettable sale, never had an issue with the car, 86,400kms $37,000 Ph 0413992594
Toyota Hilux 2022, 4 wheel drive, auto, diesel, new tyres, warranty, immaculate condition, 48,747kms, 1NV4FU $42,390 plus Gst Ph 0427858264
2BR unit for rent - Kaniva, suit professional or retiree with good history, quality rental, excellent brick unit, single garage, 2BR with BIR, walk in shower, neutral decor, open plan living kitchen with dishwasher, lounge, split system, secure backyard, $1256 p/month, bond req Ph 0419546410
Palm tree for removal , free, located Goroke Ph Mick 0400005266
Massage Service , full body massage, 1 or 2 masseuses available, call for a quote and booking Ph 0460500827
GWMWater invites tender submissions for the design and construction of the Mt Zero Water Treatment Plant (WTP) Fluoride and Chlorine Upgrades/Renewals project.
This Contract includes the following scope:
> Detailed design documentation of the new fluorosilicic acid (FSA) dosing plant.
> Decommissioning of existing fluoride dosing plant.
> Design and construction of fluoride dosing plant building.
> Selection, supply and installation of new fluoride dosing plant.
> Electrical design, installation and integration of new fluoride dosing plant.
> Replacement of chlorine dosing valves and chlorine service water pumps.
A compulsory site meeting will be held at 10 am Tuesday 22 October 2024, at the Mt Zero WTP. Tenderers who wish to attend are to register with GWMWater’s Graduate Engineer, Damith Amaratunga.
More information regarding this tender is available from gwmwater.org.au/tenders. Enquiries may be directed to Damith Amaratunga, Graduate Engineer on 1300 659 961.
Tenders close 2 pm, Thursday 31 October 2024.
GWMWater reserves the right to accept tenders in part.
The
or any tender not necessarily accepted.
at Wonwondah IS CLOSED. All previous requests ARE
My dad was a shocker when it came to cars. I cannot ever remember him putting a car in for a
Which is why they usually died early. When I first got my license, I’d borrow my dad’s car, and regularly found myself stranded on the side of the road (pre mobile phones). It’s widely known that a well maintained motorcar will travel 300-400,000km without much trouble. Taxis regularly clock up over half a million ks.
But if you don’t service them properly, you can halve the life or less. A little service keeps your machines in good shape.
But what does it take to keep our lives in good shape? I’m not just talking in terms of length, but quality. A miserable long life is a long time to be miserable. I think there are 3 things that help our lives to get sweeter as the days go by.
Start with a good ‘mind diet’. I’ve been reading the Bible for decades, and it is the most influential reading in my life. Reading and praying, praying and reading! Prayer isn’t so hard. At its simplest, it’s reflecting. Read and reflect. Do it with someone else. That’s a start.
2. Live generously. Putting in place practices that emphasise others is good for our souls. The other day, I mentioned generosity to a young person. She looked at me like I had two heads! But deliberate kindness to others keeps ur lives in good nick. ‘Tis more blessed to give than receive.
3. Stay connected to people. There are dark forces at play in our world trying to drive wedges in humanity. It can be hard to trust others and easy to retreat into isolation. Fight the urge to disappear.
Now… when I take my car to the mechanic and he tells me that something needs to be done, I don’t think to myself “what would you know?” That would lead to regret later on. I don’t want my car to fail. So, treat me like your soul mechanic. This is important! But is a healthy, long, fruitful spiritual life important to you?
Dave Tolputt, Life Links Church - Ararat
Suicide & Mental Illness www.mindframe.org.au
ANNUAL GENERAL
Dimboola Early Learning Centre
Enrolment Information Session
Monday 4th November at 6.30pm
calling 1800 552 272 or emailing admin@grampiansadvocacy.org.au
If you would prefer to Zoom, please contact us to arrange the link A ernoon tea served
and
organisational
Natimuk Preschool Centre
Enrolment Information Session
Monday 11th November at 7.00pm
Bani Manya Kindergarten
Enrolment Information Session
Tuesday 12th November at 7.00pm
Cooinda & Marrang Kindergartens
Wednesday 13th November at 7.00pm
Rainbow Kindergarten
Wednesday 13th November at 7.30pm
Bennett Road Kindergarten
Monday 18th November at 6.30pm
Jeparit Kindergarten
Enrolment Information Session
Tuesday 19th November at 7.00pm
Natimuk Road Kindergarten
Wednesday 20th November at 7.00pm
Green Park Kindergarten
Enrolment Information Session
Monday 25th November at 7.30pm
Nhill Early Years Centre
Enrolment Information Session
Thursday 28th November at 7.00pm
Emerge Early Years Services. 5382 7997 Early Years Manager for the above sites
Wim Mix offers great conditions, modern equipment, job security, all uniforms provided and above award rates.
• Delivering pre-mixed concrete to our customer sites.
• Following company housekeeping, policies and
Do you have what it takes?
• HC licence required (HR licence advantageous).
•
•
Submit resume in person (Selkirk Dr, Horsham) or email personnel@conholdings.com.au
For site safety information, company overview and career opportunities visit our website at www.conholdings.com.au/careers
GWMWater is an innovative and progressive employer committed to contributing to the sustainable growth of communities within the Grampians, Wimmera and Mallee regions.
Graduate Engineer – Dams & Structures
Position number VG/4408A
This exciting role within the Assets, Standards and Development Team provides support in dam safety compliance and the management of reservoirs, dams and water storages.
The Graduate Engineer – Dams and Structures will assist in:
• reviewing, improving, and implementing our dam safety program and managing assets,
• maintaining safety and functionality through our inspection programs, •managing dam safety assessments by specialist consultants, •scoping technical options and recommending solutions, and •supporting our operations and capital works teams with technical input.
In this role you will have the opportunity to grow your technical and project management skills as you engage with internal experts and leading dam safety consultants.
Become part of a talented and passionate team, managing some of the most significant infrastructure in the region.
Graduate Planning and Development Engineer
Position number VG/4303A
If you’re ready for a challenge and keen to make a real difference, then this role offers an exciting opportunity.
We are seeking an energetic Graduate Planning and Development Engineer to undertake planning for a range of water projects to support our region’s development.
You will be part of a diverse and committed team, working with multiple business groups and stakeholders to achieve great outcomes for the organisation, our customers and the community.
If you think you’re the right fit, we encourage you to apply!
Applications close: Wednesday 23 October 2024
GWMWater contact: Ollie
stakeholder engagement, design, and contract management.
This position is offered on a fixed term (12 month) basis with remuneration negotiable dependent on experience.
Applications close: 21 October 2024
For
West Wimmera Shire Council has an exciting vacancy for Project Officer to join our Project Management Office. Working within a small and dynamic team, the Project Officer will oversee the delivery of major capital and operational projects.
The successful candidate will have experience in project development, delivery, including preparing funding applications and acquittals, and a qualification and/or relevant experience in project management or engineering.
Applications close: 21 October 2024
353 770.
West Wimmera Shire Council is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and is committed to the principles of workplace diversity.
For a copy of the position description and to apply: visit http://www.westwimmera.vic.gov.au/employment
If you want to join the HRCC team and serve our diverse, close-knit, and engaged local community, check out the roles below!
Project Manager • Band 6 ($91,303 - $99,426 per annum)
• Permanent full-time
• Flexible working arrangements available
Concrete Worker/Labourer
• Band 3 ($66,283 - $69,498 per annum, plus allowances)
• Permanent full-time
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BY LAUREN HENRY
Abig two months of racing in the Wimmera kicked off on Saturday with the successful running of the Murtoa Cup.
The Horsham Cup will be run on October 20, St Arnaud Cup on October 26, Ararat Gold Cup on November 10 followed by the Donald Cup on November 17.
Station One, trained by Macedonbased trainer Liam Howley and ridden by Jack Hill, won the 2050-metre Murtoa-Marma Racing Club’s Ecycle Solutions Murtoa Cup.
Station One backed up from his narrow defeat in the Coleraine Cup, and despite drawing barrier 13, scored another country cup.
Fellow 2023-24 Country Racing Victoria Horse of the Year finalist, Picaroon, trained by Tom Dabernig, was second, followed by Sunsets, trained by Trent and Natalie Busuttin.
The strong program also featured the second heat of the Melbourne Cup Carnival Series, over 1600 metres.
There was also plenty of local representation across the meeting, with
Wimmera trainers littered throughout the program.
The meeting featured the popular Erinbank Enclosure, fashions on the field, live music and children’s activities.
Club manager Penny Penfold said Murtoa and district people got behind the cup day, resulting in an excellent crowd.
“The support from local businesses is unreal, the amount of donations for prizes that have come our way enables us to put on a successful cup meeting, and that’s not lost on the club,” she said.
Horsham trainer Paul Preusker, who won the Murtoa Cup last year with his stable star Captain Envious, saddled up 10 runners at the meeting.
“Working and living around the area, it’s always lovely to support the local races and their cups,” he said.
Preusker also provided an update on his stable stars Steparty and Poison Chalice.
“They’ll both resume next Saturday on Caulfield Guineas Day,” he said.
“Poison Chalice will go first up into the Weekend Hussler Stakes while Steparty kicks off in the Schillaci Stakes.”
BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY
The screech of rubber echoed around Wimmera Kart Racing Club’s Dooen track for the first time since 2022 at the weekend, as the club hosted round five of the Victorian Country Series.
The track was inundated by floodwaters in October 2022, and president Remo Luciani said it took plenty of work from members to return the club to its former glory.
“As a committee, we all put in. We’ve got a great bunch of people in the Wimmera Kart Racing Club and I don’t think we’ve ever worked so well together as what we did leading up to this event,” he said.
“We’ve had plenty of new members who have come in and taken up positions, so it was a club effort. They stood up and put on a great event.”
Nearly 150 entrants contested multiple events on Saturday, displaying a high standard of racing.
“We had 147 competitors who turned up from all over Victoria, plus about 20 competitors from South Australia and a couple from Tasmania as well,” Mr Luciani said.
“It was our first race meeting that we’ve had there since it’s been repaired and everyone enjoyed the circuit.
“It took the rubber well. The rubber sticks to the bitumen and the lap times get reduced. From when we started the day to the finals, the lap times came down by nearly two seconds.
“The track really rubbered up well and it was exciting to drive on.”
Mr Luciani said the club would host a come-and-try day this Saturday in an effort to build on the success of the weekend.
He encouraged young people to consider taking up go-karting as a sport.
“We want to see kids getting some experience before they start driving a motor car. It’s a good sport for kids and families,” he said.
“There’s a free barbecue for club members on Saturday, and the public can come and try out go-karting.
“We’re always looking for new members, so anyone who is interested in the local district can hop on our Facebook page or our website and contact the club.
“We’ll welcome them with open arms and help them try the sport to see if they like it.”
People can register for the club’s comeand-try day by visiting www.wimmera kartracingclub.com.au/come-and-try.
More information about the club is available at the website or via www.facebook. com/wimmerakartracingclub.
from 6am to 9am
BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY
Hornets men’s coach
Scott Benbow sees plenty of reason for optimism despite a weekend of mixed results in the Country Basketball League’s south-west division.
The Hornets opened their 2024-25 campaign with an 85-65 loss on the road against Millicent Magic on Saturday night, before they rebounded to open their account with a 76-71 win against Ararat Redbacks on Sunday.
Horsham started poorly against the Magic, scoring only four points in the first quarter and falling behind by 22 at half time.
The Hornets played a much stronger second half, but were unable to seriously threaten the Magic.
“Our second half was pretty good against Millicent, but they’d done the damage already and we just couldn’t catch them,” Benbow said.
“They just outplayed us, honestly. Their first quarter was very good. We couldn’t hit a shot and they couldn’t miss.
“We’ve got a bit of a different line-up to last year with a couple of players who have retired, so it took us a half to gel.
“In the second half we made a concerted effort to move the ball up the court a bit faster, and that worked for us.”
Cody Bryan led the Hornets with 21 points in the contest, with Mitch Martin adding 18, Tarkyn Benbow scoring eight and Freddy Frew seven.
Horsham also started slowly in Sunday’s game at Ararat, but responded with strong second and fourth quarters to grind out a five-point win.
After missing Saturday’s game, Micah Livingstone returned to Horsham’s lineup to score a game-high 22 points, with Martin scoring 15 and Bryan 14.
Jono Lovel made his presence felt in his return to the Hornets for the first time
in nearly 10 years, scoring eight points against the Redbacks.
For Ararat, Adan Wisby hit three threepointers on his way to a team-high 18, with coach Josh Fiegert and Ethan Lindeblad adding 15 apiece.
Following the win, Benbow said he saw plenty of upside in Horsham’s openinground performances.
“We had a pretty good second quarter again against Ararat … then in the third quarter it was a bit of a dogfight again,” he said.
“We used our pace and outran them a bit, and then they started to fatigue because they had a game on Saturday night as well.
“I think just having a bit of a deeper bench helped us in that game.
“We’re certainly going to be competing with teams like Millicent. They’ve improved from last year.
“We’ve still got Austin Mckenzie to come back into the side and he was the league’s leading scorer last season.
“We were missing him and Micah on Saturday night, and they’re pretty un-
dersized, so I think when we get our tall blokes back we’ll be in the mix for sure.”
Ararat also opened its season with a double-header, losing 87-78 at home against Terang Tornadoes on Saturday night.
Ararat led by a point at quarter time, but a 28-14 second quarter from the visitors put them in the driver’s seat.
The Redbacks stormed back to tie the scores at three-quarter time, but the shotmaking of Terang players Tim Gainey and James Mitchell proved too much in the last quarter.
Fiegert was superb, leading his team with 28 points, with Lindeblad’s 21 including five made three-pointers.
Ararat will be back in action this weekend with an away double-header against Millicent on Saturday at 8pm and Mount Gambier on Sunday at noon.
Horsham has a bye in round two and will play Mount Gambier in a blockbuster 2023-24 grand final rematch at home in round three.
BY BRONWYN HASTINGS
Round one of Central Wimmera Tennis Association’s senior matches was played on Saturday, with rain in the late afternoon resulting in some incomplete matches.
Some teams had enough sets to claim a win, while others shared the points.
In pennant competition, both matches were a washout, with final standings, Drung South 7-66 drew with Kalkee 3-45, and St Michaels 5-54 drew with Central Park 5-55.
Horsham Lawn was awarded four points for the bye.
At Drung, Drung South’s Logan Casey defeated Kalkee’s Jeff Friberg 8-5, and Kalkee’s Jordan Friberg defeated Drung South’s Harrison Daniell 8-2.
Drung South’s women won both singles matches, with Yolande Molineaux defeating Meaghan Pohlner 8-3, and Hayley Reid defeating Emily Polack, 8-3.
The men’s doubles saw Casey and Aaron Jennings win 8-2 against Jeff Friberg and Aiden Richardson, while Jordan Friberg and Luke
Byrne won 8-1 against Harrison Daniell and Thomas Daniell.
Jennings and Thomas Daniell were defeated by Richardson and Byrne in a tiebreak, 8-7.
In the women’s doubles, Molineaux and Marli Pymer defeated Pohlner and Cadi Streeter 8-2, with Reid and Sandra Casey victorious against Polack and Debbie Lawson, 8-0.
Pymer and Casey defeated Streeter and Debbie Lawson in a tiebreak, 8-7.
Two men’s and two women’ doubles games were washed out.
In the match between St Michaels and Central Park, the men’s singles saw St Michaels’ Steve Schultz defeat Reece Harman 8-0, and Central Park’s Matt Jones win 8-3 against Eli Bailey.
In the women’s singles, Central Park’s Willow Sainsbury defeated St Michaels’ Mia Rees 8-2, and St Michaels’ Emma Streeter defeated Central Park’s Tara McIntyre 8-4. Schultz and Peter Hayes convincingly defeated Harman and Nitschke 8-0, while Bailey and Nick Robertson lost to Jones and
Warracknabeal Closing date: ASAP Requirements:
• Patient, caring, responsible, supportive, flexible and resilient
• Ability to communicate and work well with people of all ages
• Hold & maintain a current First Aid & CPR Certificate
• Current NDIS Worker Screening Clearance
• Evidence of up-to-date COVID vaccinations
For more information contact Kate Clark on 0428 971 821.
•
•
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from 6am to 9am
BEFORE THE RAIN: Central Park’s Courtney Cameron and Tara McIntyre in action on Saturday against St Michaels in the opening round of Central Wimmera Tennis Association’s pennant season.
Shaun Alexander, 8-3. Hayes and Robertson defeated Nitschke and Alexander 8-4.
Sainsbury and Sienna Nitschke defeated St Michaels’ Rees and Kassie Peachey, 8-0.
Streeter and Jess Cannane defeated McIntyre and Courtney Cameron in a tiebreak, 8-7.
Nitschke and Cameron defeated Peachey and Cannane 8-6.
Two men’s and two women’s doubles games were washed out.
Juniors
Junior competition starts on Friday with match play five and six at Haven from 5pm, and will follow a rotation with week two at Horsham Lawn and week three at Central Park.
All other junior sections start at 9am on Saturday.
Pennant: Drung South 7-66 drew with Kalkee 3-45; St Michaels 5-54 drew with Central Park 5-55 before both were washed out.
A Special: Haven forfeited to Natimuk; Horsham Lawn Gillespie 6-64 drew with Brimpaen 4-54 before a washout; Central Park 8-75 defeated Homers 0-29.
A Grade: Central Park 5-52 drew with St Michaels 3-49 before a washout; Horsham Lawn McGennisken 8-77 defeated Haven 4-75; Drung South 8-75 defeated Horsham Lawn O’Connor 4-60.
B Special: Laharum 13-84 defeated Haven 3-50; Natimuk 14-84 defeated Horsham Lawn Bardell 2-37; Drung South 11-81 defeated Horsham Lawn Tigers 5-51.
For more information contact Daryl Eastwell on 0407 364 654.
Ararat
Closing date: ASAP
Requirements:
• Demonstrates an unwavering commitment to quality assurance and workplace safety
• Self-motivated and able to work autonomously
• Team player whilst in in the laboratory
• Organisational skills with attention to detail
• Can work effectively under pressure and meet expected productivity levels
• Physically fit to perform a manual labour-intensive role which includes heavy lifting.
For more information, please contact Skillinvest on 1300 135 008.
Horsham
Closing date: ASAP
Skills and Experience:
• Positive attitude and willingness to learn
• Able to work independently & in team
• Strong attention to detail
• Comfortable working outdoors in varying conditions
• Physically fit and able to meet manual requirements
For more information, please contact Skillinvest on 1300 135 008.
St Arnaud Closing date: October 15, 2024
Requirements:
• Genuine interest in horticulture and gardening
• Enjoy outdoor physical work
• Willingness to commit to work and study
• Positive attitude and self-motivated
For more information contact Daryl Eastwell on 0407 364 654.
Murtoa
Closing date: ASAP
Skills & Requirements:
• Lifeguard Certificate (paid for by local council)
• Prior experience in a lifeguarding position desirable
• Strong swimming capacity & physically fit
• Responsible & safety focused
To learn more about this role, contact Tamira Cullinan on 0458 706 272.
BY DAVID BERRY
With three rounds remaining before finals in the Volleyball Horsham winter season, the competition is starting heat up for finals positions.
In A Grade, while the top two spots have been sewn up by Phantoms and Hellenic Nuggets, Heidelberg, Tsunami and Rangers are in a race for third and fourth positions, with all three in contention for a coveted finals spot.
This season’s competition has been one of the closest, with high standard games each week. No team can confidently say they are the premiership favourite, that is how even the teams are.
In A Reserve competition, the top three – Heidelberg, Kaos, Waterhammers and International Rescue have all but booked their finals spot, the bottom four are going to make it tough in the run home, as all four teams have improved as the season has progressed.
Similar to the A Grade competition, any one of the top four teams in A Reserve could win, which will make finishing in the top two, and gaining the double chance, important in the run home.
The B Grade competition sees the race for the top four narrowed to six teams.
CHS Group is sitting on top of the ladder, with HTLC Tigers hot on their heels. After that, the next four teams are in contention to fill the last two spots on the ladder, with The Internationals, The Empire Spikes Back, Rigo’s Ralliers and Phantoms Black ‘N’ Gold all strong possibilities.
In C Grade, the young Hurricanes team is showing their older counterparts a clean pair of heels, sitting well clear on top, and barring accidents will finish in that coveted position.
The rest of the competition are all realistic chances to figure in the finals, making the remaining three rounds all the more important.
The women’s A Grade seems all set after Emily Hannan’s Tsunami upset Molly Carter’s Heidelberg last week, effectively ending any chance Heidelberg had of making a last-minute dash.
Phantoms and Ballbusters have cemented their double chance credentials with big wins last week, Lakers and the under-19 girls will be out to continue their improvement in the final three rounds.
SUCCESS: Part-owner Kath McGrath receives a plaque from Rotary Club representative Rob Glass after Wills Maverick saluted in the Springfest Ballarat Maiden Trot.
Picture: Ballarat Trotting Club
The women’s B Grade has settled into a threeteam competition between HTLC Thorns and Ladybugs and the Glam Slammers.
Whichever combination of these three makes the grand final will be well earned.
The junior competition is also a three-team race with Phantoms, Strikers and Stars Blue all capable of beating each other on the night.
Von Steiger Kids are clinging onto fourth spot, with Vipers and HTLC Tigers breathing down their necks, waiting for any slip up in the run home.
All junior players have shown great improvement over the course of this season, displaying great skills and learning plenty about the game.
Vipers to superleague
It is Adelaide’s turn to host the Mahindra Australia Superleague finals this weekend, with both Melbourne Vipers men’s and women’s teams expected to figure prominently.
Both teams made short work of NSW Phoenix in the final round to book their tickets to the finals.
The men will now play Perth Steel in the first qualifying final, a match up they are confident about after defeating them earlier in the season, while the women will have a rematch with Adelaide Storm, in a game only a few weeks ago was touted as one of the best ever seen in this competition.
Vipers coach Josh Cowan was able to get quality court time into some younger members of his squad last week, being able to rest key players including Paul Sanderson, Damien Whitburn, Dylan Lucchesi and Nick Boesten.
Women’s coach Karl Lim will have his work cut out for him at training this week with injury clouds hanging over the head of number one setter Louise Bates and universal player Emma Lim.
But his team will welcome back superstar hitter Caitlin Tipping, which will give it confidence it can go all the way.
Saturdays qualifying finals start at 1.30pm with the men’s first final between Vipers and Perth Steel, with the women’s qualifying final at 6pm, with both broadcast on SBS On Demand, while Sunday’s gold medal matches will be televised live on SBS.
Ararat trainer Michael McGrath and his wife Kath enjoyed a great night at Ballarat last week when their five-year-old gelding Wills Maverick broke through to record its maiden success. Michael gave the trotter a decent spell after a lengthy first preparation, which set the foundation for ‘next time in work’.
A first-up third placing a fortnight ago at Ballarat showed the son of Louey Louey Louey was on the right track, and the elusive first win may not be too far off.
After galloping in the score-up, driver Michael Bellman got his charge back into stride and steadily made ground throughout to be in striking distance at the 400-metre mark. Wills Maverick showed plenty of fight down the home stretch to score by a head from No Remorse, Anthony Butt, in a rate of 2:02.9.
The McGraths homebred is from their former handy racemare Rani Rose and decends from the line that goes back 50 years.
Vol. 27 No. 15
Wednesday, October 9, 2024
Horsham Hornets young-gun Micah Livingstone drives around Ararat Redbacks forward Josh Fiegert on his way to top-scoring with 22 points in the Hornets’ 76-71 win in Ararat on Sunday. Both teams held the ascendancy throughout the game with the Hornets finally prevailing. The Hornets split their opening round with a win and a loss and Ararat battled manfully in its’ two losses at the weekend. Story page 49.
