The Weekly Advertiser – Wednesday, October 11, 2023

ELECTRIC: The cast of Horsham Arts Council’s latest show hope audiences have the time of their lives when they perform rock opera ‘American Idiot’ at Horsham Town Hall this weekend. The show is based on band Green Day’s popular album of the same name and follows Johnny and his buddies, Will and Tunny, as they attempt to break out of their ‘mindnumbing, aimless suburban existence’ – with their lives eventually taking three distinctive paths. The show explores the themes of youth

relationships, love and loss and contains adult themes. The show opens tomorrow at 7.30pm and continues on Friday and Saturday with shows at 6pm and 9pm. People can purchase tickets via horshamtownhall.com.au or at the box office. More photos, page 20.

Historic opportunity

BY SEAN O’CONNELL

AWimmera-based

Indigenous organisation has thrown its support behind a ‘yes’ vote as Saturday’s referendum approaches.

In a statement from its board of directors, Goolum Goolum Aboriginal Co-operative says it supports the proposed Constitutional amendment to establish an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voice to Federal Parliament.

The statement said Constitutional recognition through the establishment of an advisory body could address

historical wrongs and help bring about positive changes for the future.

“The Goolum Goolum Aboriginal Co-operative board of directors believe that the Indigenous Voice to Parliament, which will include Constitutional recognition, has the potential to address historical injustices and bring about structural changes for a better future,” the statement said.

“The Voice aims to improve the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians by ensuring their voices are heard on matters that affect them.

“It represents a crucial step in mov-

ing past a history of failed policies and programs in Indigenous affairs.”

The referendum question is: “A Proposed Law: to alter the Constitution to recognise the First Peoples of Australia by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice. Do you approve this proposed alteration?” People will receive a ballot paper with the proposed alteration to the Constitution and to indicate their vote, they must write ‘yes’ or ‘no’ in the space provided.

The Goolum Goolum statement said the referendum offered voters a

chance to work toward a ‘better future for all’.

“The referendum question is a simple but powerful gesture of unity and offers all Australians the chance to right historical wrongs and to walk together toward a better future for all,” the statement said.

“We respect there will be differing views; however, we believe this is a question of equity and encourage all in our community to take the time to do your own reading and research to become fully informed about this unique and important opportunity.”

The statement said while the cooperative supported the referendum, the first since 1999, it did not speak for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities on the matter. Barengi Gadjin Land Council, which represents Traditional Owners in the region, was approached for comment regarding the referendum and declined. In a statement, the land council said it would not take an organisationwide stance on the referendum, saying it was an individual choice for all Australians and First Nations people.

Continued page 3

angst,

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

HRCC NEWS

WASTE AND RECYCLING UPDATE

Our combined efforts are making a huge impact. Here’s an update on how we’re progressing

Thank you

A recent assessment of kerbside waste collections has shown low levels of contamination compared with other municipalities. While there’s still room for improvement, our recycling facility can now better separate items rather than sending them to the Dooen Landfill.

Results

Purple bins - The contamination rates of glass bins are very low – however recently we have seen an increase in items such as cans, milk cartoons or even general waste ending up in the glass collections.

Yellow bins - Recycling is operating more efficiently with glass now separated.

Remember: Glass does not go in the yellow recycling bin. Broken glass contaminates other materials and prevents them from being recycled.

Green bins – The vast majority of people are doing the right thing. FOGO is being processed and turned into fertiliser - most importantly it is not ending up at Dooen Landfill. This helps Council avoid potentially significant increases in the annual waste charge that residents pay as part of their rates.

Remember: No plastic bags or caddy liners can go in the FOGO bin - even if they are biodegradable. This is a direction from Council's processing contractor. Newspaper can be used to line the FOGO bin.

What happens to our glass?

Council is sending our municipality’s glass to a Yarriambiack processing facility - doing so means transport costs are minimised. We collect the glass after it is crushed and use it to mix with road base or as an alternative to sand. We have successfully trialled recycling glass into footpaths in Horsham.

The problem with contamination

Contamination occurs when the wrong items are placed in our bins.

For example, if the wrong items are collected in purple bins, they have to be removed before the glass is crushed, adding to the cost of processing.

Council does not profit from waste charges. The kerbside collection service runs on a cost recovery model, that means the more the service costs to operate, the more each resident pays via their annual waste charge. If everybody uses their bins correctly, we can save tax and ratepayer dollars as well as help to protect the environment.

Kerbside review – have your say

A community survey will help Horsham Rural City Council find ways to improve the Better Sorted Waste kerbside collection services introduced in April.

Works start on Hamilton Street public toilet

Works to build a new public toilet in central Horsham’s southern shopping area have started.

The facility will be constructed along Hamilton Street on the western side of the Firebrace Street roundabout.

It will be a single accessible cubicle with a concrete pathway to it and perimeter and safety fencing on the three road-facing sides.

Mayor Robyn Gulline said the site was chosen at the request of the community.

“The CBD south commercial and shopping district has been the focus of community requests for a public toilet for some time,” she said.

“Historically there was a public toilet next to the Livestock Bazaar, but this was removed during the redevelopment of the saleyards that resulted in the Aldi supermarket, Headspace, Goodstart Early Learning centre and the City Gardens residential development.

“This feedback, and the requirements from the Wimmera Catchment Management Authority relating to flood levels, have informed the decision to install the public toilet in this location,” she said.

The work is expected to complete by the end of December 2023.

“Council thanks business operators and residents for their patience as the works occur and looks forward to when the amenities are operational,” Cr Gulline said.

Next Council Meeting: Monday 23 October 2023 - 5.30pm

The vast majority of the community has done the right thing when it comes to sorting waste properly, and that has meant that now only half of the municipality's kerbside waste is going to landfill. However, we understand that everyone has had to adapt to the new service and we are keen to find out whether there are improvements we can make

The survey is designed to allow residents to share their thoughts on potential solutions to teething issues that have been reported. These include bins filling too quickly, odour, additional rural glass drop-off points and people’s ability to store extra bins.

Scan the QR code to find out more about the Kerbside Waste Review.

AUSTRALIA DAY AWARDS

Nominations now open

Help celebrate what’s great about our community by nominating someone you know for an Australia Day Award.

HRCC’s Australia Day Awards recognise and honour individuals and groups who have made an outstanding contribution to our local community.

We are on the lookout for the next:

• Community Event of the Year

• Citizen of the Year

• Young Citizen of the Year.

Nominations for Horsham Rural City Council Australia Day Awards are open now until Monday 4 December.

To nominate someone, complete the online form or a hard copy version available at the Civic Centre.

Awards will be presented at the Australia Day Celebration on Friday 26 January, 2024 at Sawyer Park.

TENDERS AND RFQ

FLOOD RECOVERY PACKAGES 15 AND 18

HRCC invites road construction contractors to tender for individual packages for the 2022 Flood Recovery Roadworks Program. Various closing dates

Q15/2024

DEPOT DECONTAMINATION: MULTIPHASE EXTRACTION EVENT FOR IN-SITU SOIL Quotation for three multiphase extraction events to remediate soil following fuel contamination from underground fuel tanks. Closes 10am, Friday 13 October

All tender, EOI and RFQ details at hrcc.vic.gov.au

HORSHAM LIBRARY TEMPORARY CLOSURE

The Horsham Library will be closed for two weeks from Monday October 16 while carpets are replaced.

Library hours will resume as normal on Monday October 30.

V/Line purchases will remain available through the foyer and hold items can still be collected. Other library services will not be available during this time.

The Edenhope, Kaniva, Goroke and Harrow library branches will not be affected and will continue under their regular operating hours.

We appreciate your patience.

HAVE YOUR SAY

Current Community Engagements

For full details visit the Have Your Say section of the HRCC website KERBSIDE WASTE REVIEW

Council is undertaking a six-month review of the Better Sorted Waste kerbside collection services which started in April. Submissions will close 9am, Monday 23 October.

PLAY SPACE STRATEGY

Our Play Space Strategy will guide the development, improvement and maintenance of play spaces. From parks to playgrounds, we want to make sure these spaces are safe, inclusive and loads of fun for everyone. Complete an online or hard copy survey by Sunday November 5.

COMMON SEAL AND CONDUCT AT MEETINGS LOCAL LAW 2023

Make any comment on the Common Seal and Conduct at Meetings Local Law 2023 in writing to “Local Law 2023”, PO Box 511, Horsham, VIC, 3402 or via email to council@hrcc.vic. gov.au

Submissions close Tuesday 24 October at 5pm.

Horsham Rural City Council: 18 Roberts Avenue Horsham | Postal address: PO Box 511 Horsham VIC 3402 | Phone: (03) 5382 9777 | Email: council@hrcc.vic.gov.au | Web: www.hrcc.vic.gov.au

HRCC News October 11, 2023 edition

END RESULT: The image on the left shows the results of properly sorted glass. On the right, items such as paper, plastic and cans have been placed in glass bins, contaminating the collection.

Building civic responsibility

BY JESSICA GRIMBLE

People considering nominating for Horsham Rural City Council elections in 2024 have a chance to gain insights into civic responsibilities and undertake critical skills development.

The Victorian Local Government Association, VLGA, will deliver a best-practice community leadership program in the municipality early next year, equipping participants with skills to better understand the role and responsibilities of local government and practice good governance through both theoretical and hands-on learning.

The program is among recommendations contained in a municipal monitor’s report of the council in order to address concerns of good governance.

The program, which would run across four to five months, seeks to generate an ‘engaged, proactive and diverse pool’ of potential candidates for the October 2024 elections.

Creativity ‘still here’

Work by six residents of Rural Northwest Health’s aged care facility is brightening up the foyer at Horsham Town Hall as part of Seniors Week.

Collages were created as part of a virtual gallery and art project at the Warracknabeal facility in August and September.

Named ‘I’m still here’, the exhibition highlights the painting, drawing and poetry talents of the residents, who all live with dementia.

Simone Dalton, who designed and delivered the project, said while dementia impacted short-term memory, the bold works illustrated participants’ strengths in areas including imagination, drawing, creativity and love of music.

“Every week we used digital images from the Horsham Regional Art Gallery collection to create a virtual gallery in a RNH theatrette,” she said.

“With themes including childhood, photography, portraits, still life, community, landscape and farming, there were many stories and memories shared as we viewed works and engaged in art activities.

“Some weeks participants painted, other weeks they drew or created with buttons and stickers – and all

The council can also consider including additional components to the program design such as information about building networks and communicating value, communication skills, community capacity such as networking and working with volunteers, understanding government, leading change, and candidate development and campaigning.

Horsham councillors were unanimous in their support for the program to proceed.

Cr Bob Redden told last month’s council meeting the program was a good initiative to help people learn more about the workings of local government, while Cr Les Power said the program was ‘one of the better ideas’ to come from the monitor’s report, but noted previous and existing councillors, and council staff, were ineligible to participate.

Cr David Bowe said the municipal monitor’s report noted the community’s engagement and interest in the council, and the program could en-

courage or pique their interest in nominating to become a councillor.

“We’re not just ticking boxes here; we’re building future leaders who will go on to positively impact our community – whether they choose to run for council or lead in other community roles,” he said.

“I believe this program is a step in the right direction for our community.”

An independent panel will interview applicants to the program.

They will consider geographical representation and factors related to population diversity including age, cultural heritage, gender and gender identity, all abilities, and personal and life experiences.

Eligibility criteria includes an interest in developing their, and others’ leadership in the community; motivation to participate and engage in civic life; a desire to use skills to make a difference and enhance the local community; and the ability to attend all sessions.

Applicants must be 18 and older. A maximum 25 participants would gain selection.

Cr Ian Ross said it was important people elected to council also received support and training opportunities.

“The more leadership training we have in the community, the better – but I do have a concern because I believe it would be a better investment made on the councillors elected next time to ensure they have quality training. It may well be that only one or two of these candidates get elected,” he said.

The council will consult Whittlesea City Council, which has also partnered with VLGA to deliver a leadership program, on elements of operational design and evaluation of the program.

The council has budgeted $50,000 for the program, which includes the VLGA quote for $13,500 excluding GST plus the cost of in-house delivery for council-hosted sessions.

Additional components to the course would incur further fees.

Differing opinions

From page 1

Member for Mallee Dr Anne Webster said a common theme in her conversations with Indigenous people, including the leader of an Indigenous organisation in the electorate, was a lack of information.

“I have met with the chief executive of Mallee District Aboriginal Services and have also discussed the referendum with other Indigenous individuals,” she said.

“MDAS has publicly stated the referendum raises several complex issues for the community and an approach that may be suitable for one person may be entirely unsuitable for another.

“Which further highlights the issue of the lack of homogeneity with enshrining a bureaucratic body in Australia’s Constitution.”

She said there was ‘limited practical evidence’ the Voice would improve outcomes for Indigenous people.

“As I have stated in the past, we are yet to see any detail that explains how enshrining an Indigenous Voice to Parliament in the Constitution will address the challenges faced by vulnerable Indigenous communities across Australia in practical terms,” she said.

“The last thing Australia needs is another bureaucratic body.

“What we need are real measures to ‘close the gap’ and practical solutions for the communities that are crying out for change.”

The statement from Goolum Goolum’s board of directors said regardless of an individual’s stance, it was crucial to show compassion and kindness. Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people can seek support by calling 13YARN on 139 276.

Early voting centres are open at Horsham’s Anglican Church hall, North Park Community Sports Centre in Stawell and Ararat’s Holy Spirit Centre from 8.30am to 5.30pm until Friday.

Polling booths open on referendum day, Saturday, from 8am to 6pm. Voting is compulsory for all enrolled Australians.

Hicks elected Richard Hicks was declared an incoming West Wimmera Shire councillor, yesterday.

the while, we had music from their younger days playing in the background. We created poems from their discussions around landscape works and when one resident was struggling to see, she simply painted to the music.”

The project was inspired by ‘Meet me at MOMA’ where carers, and those living with dementia made weekly visits to the US art gallery.

“We don’t all live near an art gallery in the Wimmera, so this project took the gallery to the residents; and

while it was not quite the same, we had a lot of fun and created some beautiful art,” Ms Dalton said.

‘I’m still here’ will be on display at Horsham Regional Art Gallery until Friday morning.

The vacancy occurred after the resignation of Trevor Domaschenz. Mr Hicks, of Kaniva, was the only eligible candidate remaining from the October 2020 general election. He had previously served as councillor from 2016-20.

PROUD: Wattle Crescent, Warracknabeal, residents Esme Walsh and Doreen Johnson admire their art, which is on display at Horsham Regional Art Gallery until Friday. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

A‘cool’ way to save

With the cost of living rising across Australia and energy bills on the up, Australians shouldn’t have to sacrifice a cool home this summer to save a budget.

Efficiency is everything in this modern world and that extends to Australian advances in cooling.

Because it is not just about keeping the house cool.

It is about keeping it cool for long periods of time without breaking the bank – allowing us to make the most of amazing western Victorian summers the way only we know how.

Making use of the environment and the tools at our disposal makes sense in the search for efficiency.

Evaporative cooling does this. Based on the principles of evaporation, hot and dry outside air is pumped through water-soaked cooling pads.

cooling pads, the water evapo rates and the heat in the air is absorbed, which lowers the air temperature.

the cool air throughout a house via a network of ducts.

the midst of an Australian summer, evaporative cooling remains the

evaporation to cool the air. But it takes an entire air-conditioning industry to keep Australian’s comfortable in the heat and the team at Wade’s are happy to rely on Seeley International air conditioners because they know their customers are getting an efficient, Australian-built machine.

Because Wade’s are a Seeley Climate Master Dealer, Wade’s can offer a 5 to 7-year warranty on Seeley evaporative units – more than three times the warranty length compared with some air-conditioning manufacturers.

Organising an evaporative cooling service is simple and easy with Wade’s.

Our servicing teams will ensure the unit continues to run at peak efficiency and maintain its low evaporative running costs.

Just ask and Wade’s can addically schedule and contact you when it is time to run an eye over

tional is passionate and dedicated to Australian manufacturing – a guarantee that makes it possible to keep your family living their best

BY JESSICA GRIMBLE

Enrolments

at Federation University’s Wimmera campus have reached pre-pandemic numbers, which are growing in key skills shortage areas.

Capital works and equipment upgrades are also due for completion early next year, including transformation of underutilised buildings to accommodate an engineering trades workshop space, ensuring students have access to the latest industrystandard, state-of-the-art equipment.

The updates align with the university’s ‘Campus Vision 2023-30’, which contains a future plan for its regional Victorian and Brisbane campuses as it strives to become Australia’s leading regional university.

A vision for the Wimmera campus states: “With a central focus on Indigenous reconciliation and sustainability, the campus will become a vibrant hub for engagement, research, vocational and higher education activity.

The Ararat Jobs and Technology Precinct will be developed as a research

Mighty weekend

Blue skies have summonsed large crowds to a ‘massive’ Murtoa Big Weekend.

The three-day event began on Friday with the annual Murtoa show, with free entry for students and a high standard of pavilion entries.

A music and movie night at Lake Marma followed, before the Murtoa Sound and Light Show delighted a large crowd.

The weekend went on to include the Murtoa show ‘n’ shine, market and tours of historic sites including the Stick Shed, the town’s museum precinct and a Dunmunkle Sumpoilers historic display.

Among weekend patrons was Betty Sargent, who grew up in Murtoa and recalls the Stick Shed being built. She went on to become a teacher and now lives in Stawell.

“We used to come up and watch the building from the fence near the railway line. It took quite a while. I was 12 or 14 at the time,” she said.

“Every now and again, or if I have visitors, we come and have a look.”

The Murtoa Cup, Speakeasy cabaret and live music at the Railway Hotel were highlights of Saturday’s

hub for agribusiness and advanced manufacturing.”

Wimmera campus director Christine Brown said enrolments were growing year on year, with the strongest growth recognised in its engineering courses. There were 456 enrolments this year.

She said the campus offered a range of courses, including Vocational Education and Training delivered to secondary schools, known as VETDSS.

“We have also doubled our enrolments in the Certificate II in Building and Construction pre-apprenticeship since 2021 and seen a significant increase in Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. Courses in electrotechnology, Certificate II and Certificate III, have remained strong over the years with the Diploma of Nursing also strong and consistent,” she said.

“It is worth noting that several courses including the Certificate II in Electrotechnology, career Start, Certificate II in Engineering Studies, Certificate II in Individual Support, Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and

Care, Diploma of Community Services, and Diploma of Nursing are all part of the Free TAFE initiative which may have contributed to their popularity.

“These courses address identified skills shortage areas within the Wimmera Southern Mallee Skills Profile.”

Ms Brown said there was an acute global shortage of welders and the university was developing skills locally, with future employment opportunities across many sectors. Campus initiatives include training opportunities and infrastructure upgrades.

“We are fast becoming the preferred training provider for engineering in the region,” she said.

“In recent years, a number of other Registered Training Organisations in our region have divested in delivery of engineering programs so Federation has stepped in and increased our delivery of courses to meet demand, working collaboratively with these other educational providers to assist students to complete their apprenticeships in Horsham, saving the time and expense of travelling for training.”

The Wimmera campus seeks to offer a culturally safe space for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and staff, including unveiling a ‘Place of Being’, Dyata, last year and dual-names of buildings to incorporate global and Indigenous perspectives, enshrining knowledge and culture in programs, and cultural awareness training for staff.

“Federation University Australia is also strongly committed to a constitutionally enshrined First Nations Voice to Parliament, as this is the next critical step in our nation’s reconciliation journey,” Ms Brown said.

Ms Brown said the campus was part of a larger learning precinct, including its close proximity to Horsham College, the trade training centre, nursing labs and the new engineering centre.

“We also have several key organisations from the region co-located at Baillie Street including Wimmera Southern Mallee Development and the Wimmera Southern Mallee Local Learning and Employment Network, LLEN,” she said.

“We are also supporting a local so-

cial enterprise, Laneway Café, which is run through the Centre for Participation and located in our campus cafeteria.

“The Future Regions Research Centre Horsham Research Hub, and Skills and Jobs Centre are also on-campus.

“We deliver a wide range of courses from trades to health, aged care, and childcare, and are now delivering training through connected classrooms which means students can attend the Federation campus on-site in Horsham and join classes or lectures being held at other campuses across the state, engaging with their trainer and later being able to refer back to recordings of their classes.”

Ms Brown said the university measured success in a variety of ways — including enrolment figures, how it was meeting the community’s needs in terms of addressing skills shortages, successful grant applications and partnerships with industry and other education providers.

People can view the ‘Campus Vision 2023-30’ document via federation. edu.au/strategy/campus-vision

program while a colour run at Lake Marma followed on Sunday.

The Murtoa Silo Art by street artist SMUG and digitally lit art instalment by Dave Jones were popular across the weekend. The silo art light show will continue each night from sunset for two hours.

Organising committee member

Natasha Pietsch said the inclusion of Seymour Railway Heritage Centre shuttle trains from Horsham was an

‘exceptionally well-attended’ attraction for all ages.

“This luxurious item created a unique atmosphere, bringing with it many sights and sounds within Murtoa,” she said. “A constant ‘toot’ was heard in the distance, and sights of the heritage train arriving with new visitors to Murtoa disembarking the glamorous carriages at the Murtoa Train Station platform created spectacular memories.”

An almost 300-kilometre horse ride raised more than $30,000 for the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

Abbey Wehrung set off from Korweinguboora in late September and made the trek to Glenisla in memory of her late mother, Kerryn. Family and friends joined her for different legs of the trip as she made her way to the southern Grampians destination.

Ms Wehrung exceeded her initial fundraising goal by more than $10,000. The money will contribute to improving breast cancer outcomes, through the work of the chosen charity.

In making the trip, Ms Wehrung relived a similar trek she and her family made 20 years ago, on horseback, to raise money and awareness for epilepsy.

Target exceeded Roaring success

A roaring ‘20s-themed soiree has raised vital funds for the Royal Flying Doctor Service, Victoria. Retiring board member Robyn Lardner, with husband Des, hosted the event in Minyip last month — being the home of the Australian television series of the same name. The event, which included an afternoon tea, musical entertainment, guest speakers, a raffle and auction, raised more than $12,000.

MEMORIES: Max Michell of Seymour Railway Heritage Centre with Sean McCartney and grandson Arlo of Nhill; and left, Meredith and Betty Sargent at the Stick Shed. Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

Police responding

BY ABBY WALTER

AWimmera police leader says residents do not need to be alarmed by an increase in crime in the year to June, compared to the previous year.

Wimmera Superintendent Sharon McCrory said the increase was ‘very low’ when looking at the raw data, and compared with state data, it was positive.

Crime Statistics Agency data showed crime in Horsham increased by 4.7 percent in the year to June 2023.

Crime in Ararat decreased by 1.7 percent, dropped from 261 offences to 205 in Hindmarsh, decreased by 70 offences in Northern Grampians, dropped from 136 to 113 offences in West Wimmera and increased by 6.2 percent in Yarriambiack.

Superintendent McCrory said data showed people in the Wimmera were living and working in a safe place.

“There is nothing in these statistics that alarms me or that I wasn’t expecting, however, there are some areas for attention,” she said.

In Horsham, the top principal offence subgroup was breaches of a family violence order, with 189 offences, followed by 147 breaches of bail offences, 144 criminal damage offences, 94 common assault offences and 90 other theft offences.

Criminal damage and other theft offences had decreased compared to the previous year, while breach

of family violence order, breach of bail order and common assault offences increased.

Superintendent McCrory said with family violence breaches the highest increase, it revealed several things to her.

“It’s not positive that we have an increase in offending, but once it comes to our attention we can deal with the offending and, more importantly, we can help the victims and their families by hooking them into the right services and making sure they have the support they need,” she said.

“In a positive sense, it tells me our victims of family violence are feeling comfortable to come to us and report those breaches.

“That is a good thing, because we battled for years to get victims to come to us and trust us.”

Positive result

Superintendent McCrory said knowing people were breaching bail conditions meant Victoria Police could respond.

“Increases around breach of bail offences I see as a positive – we’ve worked hard with our members to focus on that and treat breaches of bail as a really serious matter,” she said.

“Whether it be police bail or court-imposed bail, it’s telling me our members are actively managing our higher-risk offenders.

“We’re dealing with any breaches of conditions – those conditions are put on for a reason and the biggest one is to keep the community safe.”

Superintendent McCrory said

the data showed work between police and community was paying off – and if residents see something, they can report it so police can deal with the matter.

“Don’t be alarmed by seeing an increase with a big red arrow when searching the crime statistics because it’s not bad,” she said.

“Our population increases, so with that there’s more potential victims and more potential offenders.

“It’s good to see a decrease in criminal damage and it tells me the work we’re doing proactively is working.”

Superintendent McCrory said police members would continue to work proactively to prevent crime, as graffiti and fuel theft were current trends in the community.

“We’ve recently had a spate of graffiti, so we are working hard to identify those tags and looking at partnering with the council,” she said.

“With the cost of diesel constantly going up, we have noticed an increase in theft in the past couple of months.

“That’s not so much drive-offs at petrol stations – this is from farm equipment, parked cars and parked trucks.

“We will work hard to try and identify it, but there are things owners can do including locking up machinery on farms if possible, parking in a well-lit area and being aware it is happening.”

DELIGHT: Seasonal change was in the air as Horsham and District Orchid Society hosted its spring show at Maydale Pavilion at the weekend. The two-day event was a chance for enthusiasts and visitors to take in the various orchids on display, which Wimmera growers had prepared for the occasion. Nat and Jenny Lewis were among those who attended the show. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Transmission information

Transmission Company Victoria, TCV, is hosting community information sessions regarding the Victoria to NSW Interconnector, VNI West, transmission line project.

TCV is responsible for developing the Victorian section of VNI West and recently released a draft corridor for the project.

VNI West project director Sam Magee said another round of community meetings would seek to inform people about the draft report.

“These community meetings will provide an opportunity for landholders and community members to have face-to-face discussions with the project team and find out

more about how we will continue to refine the route,” he said.

The first session was in Charlton yesterday. A session is at Stewart and McDonald Hall in St Arnaud today from 4.30pm, at Boort Memorial Hall from 4.30pm tomorrow, at Stawell Entertainment Centre on Monday from 4.30pm and Kerang Memorial Hall from 4.30pm on Tuesday.

An online session is scheduled from 4pm on October 19. Registrations can be made via transmissionvictoria.com.au/community

The draft corridor report is available at transmissionvictoria.com.au/reports

Meet our team

Supporting youth

BY ABBY WALTER

New research from youth service headspace has revealed two in five young people prefer to deal with mental ill-health challenges on their own.

A survey of more than 3100 young people across Australia found people reported ‘feeling worse’ if they could not address mental ill-health alone, and many respondents said feeling worried about what others would think of them was one reason they wouldn’t reach out for help.

The research also found nearly six in 10 people feel there is a stigma about mental ill-health in Australia, with more than half of respondents saying they believed there was a stigma connected to seeking help.

Service providers have urged young people to speak to someone they trusted, or consider accessing online resources, to support them during instances of ill-health.

Headspace chief executive Jason Trethowan said it could be confronting asking for support, but reminded young people there was always a range of youth-friendly, confidential and lowcost support available.

“Young people today face expectations from many different directions – from their families, schools, workplaces, social media and from within themselves,” he said.

“Too many young people still feel they have to manage these expectations on their own.

“What’s essential is that young people take the steps they need to succeed in life.

“For young people having a tough time, it’s important they know there is support available and that they should reach out for help.”

Mr Trethowan said young people could explore services available online, if reaching out face-to-face felt difficult.

“The young people I meet at headspace are amazing, with an enormous capacity for resilience – they just need some support on their journeys into adulthood,” he said.

“Headspace reminds young people they don’t have to do it all on their own, in fact, they shouldn’t. It’s so vital we reach for, and depend on, external support.”

Uniting Vic.Tas western community services executive officer Josh Koenig said across regional Victoria, including the Wimmera, the organisation’s mental health programs and services worked with people of all ages. He said the service offered individual and group treatment and support programs.

“We also operate a number of programs and services including headspace in Horsham, where we provide free counselling and support to young people from 12 to 25 years covering everything from relationships, drug and alcohol, mental health, bullying, anxiety, depression, bothering thoughts and uncertainty about future plans,” he said.

“We have seen a sharp rise in demand for our mental health and crisis support services in the past few years, with more people reaching out for support with their mental health.

“We would urge anybody who has concerns about their own, or a loved one’s, mental health to talk to their GP.

“Uniting Vic.Tas delivers Lifeline services in Victoria and our staff, including Lifeline crisis supporters, receive extensive training on how they can best respond to and support people in crisis.”

Mr Koenig said Uniting Vic.Tas also worked with people to address issues that might impact their mental health such as housing, employment or alcohol and drug addiction.

“Our Wimmera Wellbeing Centre in Horsham provides a range of welcoming spaces where children, young people and adults can participate in programs and groups that focus on improving mental health, wellbeing, parenting and family support,” he said.

• If you, or someone you know, needs help visit a Headspace centre or phone eheadspace on 1800 650 890; Lifeline on 13 11 14; or Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800.

Opening doors to safe space

Headspace Horsham recognised the importance of youth mental health and wellbeing at a Headspace Day event on Thursday.

Headspace Horsham team leader centre operations Trina Gloury said the organisation invited external service providers, community groups, schools and internal services to a morning tea to acknowledge the day.

“It was also an opportunity to begin our relaunch of the service into the community,” she said.

“We are relaunching the service to advocate the importance of safe youth spaces and show

young people they have a safe place to connect.”

Ms Gloury said the centre welcomes any young person, between 12 and 25 years-old, who needs a safe space.

“The main message is, come through the door when you’re feeling poor or going through a tough time and we will do our best to help get you back to good mental health,” she said.

“And if we need to, we will support people to find the service that is right for them, if it is not with us.”

SAFE SPACE: Headspace Horsham clinical advisor Megan Ali, client service officer Kate Adams with youth reference group members Ash Mulvogue and Ash King acknowledge Headspace Day. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

For Sale by Tender 16A & 20 Wawunna Road & 1-3 Mill Street, Horsham

Industrial site in prime location

This large corner site is a prime industrial property it is strategically located in a central area, close to the CBD and the Western Highway, and it is directly opposite the Horsham railway grounds.

* Leasing: The existing buildings can be separated into multiple occupancies, making it suitable for leasing to different tenants.

* Owner-Occupancy: The new owner could choose to occupy part or the entire property for their own industrial operations.

* Building size: 1295.69 sq.m.

* Zoning: IN1Z (Industrial 1)

* Tenders close on October 27, 2023 at noon

Property ID: 7734188

For further information, contact Wes Davidson Real Estate on (03) 5382 0000

EAST GRAMPIANS HEALTH SERVICE | HOME SUPPORT

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, flexible respite, home maintenance, home modification 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-4pm.

For further information, please call Janelle Smith, Home Support Coordinator 5352 9555.

Inform your choice

Ifyou don’t know, learn.

We go to the polls on Saturday in the first referendum since 1999 to lodge a vote of yes or no to the question: “A Proposed Law: to alter the Constitution to recognise the First Peoples of Australia by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice. Do you approve this proposed alteration?”

It’s been a much-discussed topic for some months now.

But did you know – it is legal to spread misinformation and disinformation about the proposed amendment; just as has been legal to do so during campaigns to a federal election.

And while the Australian Electoral Commission, the body responsible for overseeing the referendum, has a ‘disinformation register’ itself; it was also legislatively obligated to distribute its official yes-no pamphlet, nationally, with the cases as they were received from ‘yes’ and ‘no’ case committees.

“The AEC has not looked at the veracity of information in the cases at all. If the AEC were to change the content of

EDITORIAL

By Jessica Grimble

the cases submitted by case committees, or perform a fact checking service on the information, it would be inappropriate and potentially illegal,” the AEC website states.

So where, then, can people establish an understanding that is based on fact? To have their questions and concerns answered.

Don’t believe everything you hear, and everything you read. And yes, as an editorial director of a newspaper, the irony of this statement is not lost.

We won’t tell you how to vote – that’s not our place – but we do encourage people to learn and ask more in order to make a responsibly informed choice and recommend the following resources:

The AECs disinformation register answers questions about the rules and pro-

cesses of a referendum, including how to vote. It’s available via aec.gov.au

People can read the Uluru Statement of the Heart, and learn more about what the Voice to Parliament will, and won’t, do via ulurustatement.org/the-voice/faqs

Reconciliation Australia details how, and why, the referendum has come about –and includes a video on common myths and concerns. People can read the information, and watch the video online via reconciliation.org.au

RMIT University’s FactLab CrossCheck is monitoring, and responding to, misinformation.

As a starting point, it responds to seven common confusions about the Voice to Parliament and racial equality in Australia via rmit.edu.au/news/crosscheck/ common-confusions-about-voice-toparliament

Australian Associated Press, AAP, also hosts a fact-checker via aap.com.au/ factcheck

Early-voting centres are open in Horsham and Stawell throughout this week.

Booths open on referendum day – Saturday – from 8am to 6pm.

Warhammer enthusiasts to share passion

A group of Wimmera enthusiasts is bringing its passion to the next generation of hobbyists, hosting a come-and-try night in 10 days’ time.

Horsham Warhammer is looking to expand its group and the popularity of the table-top board game in the region.

Event co-ordinator Josh Sykes said the come-and-try day was an opportunity to show off every aspect of the hobby, with the rolling of dice and creation of models two important aspects of Warhammer.

“We’ll have models there for free that people can build, paint and then take home as a bit of a souvenir,” he said.

“We’ll also be running some smaller trial, demo games and getting dice in people’s hands. We’ll be able to walk people through what a normal turn looks like and what an army does.”

Mr Sykes said while the game could look a bit ‘nerdy’ at first, it was just like any other hobby, and the event was an opportunity to ‘get a feel for it’.

“You never know what you are going to get out of it,” he said.

“I have friends who had never touched it in their life, came into it during COVID and loved the painting side of it.

“Some guys who normally just watch, started rolling dice and now won’t stop because they just find it intriguing.

“We’re going to have guys who have been playing for decades there.

“They’re a wealth of knowledge and great blokes and girls to just talk to.”

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Standing for community

September’s Horsham Rural City Council meeting had many interesting points raised – one of them being parking meters.

I thought it was fantastic to see a group of community members had banded together to table a petition to the council objecting to the parking meters.

However, not everyone shared our enthusiasm.

Councillor Les Power remarked, and I quote: “Unfortunately, the petition only reached 10 percent of the population, which is pretty sad to see.”

Well, Cr Power, let’s actually talk about the real things that are ‘sad to see’.

Here’s a list: It’s sad to see the neglect of development in Horsham North; it’s sad to see our councillors struggle to get along and be cohesive with one another; it’s sad to see the voices of the community not being heard; and it’s sad to see people struggling to put food on their table and clothes on their back.

It’s crucial to remember that our community is at the forefront of my commitment to stand for council at the election in 2024.

The community deserves our unwavering support and, most importantly, to be heard.

Bart Turgoose, Horsham

Dementia-friendly future

On behalf of the estimated more than 400,000 people living with dementia in Australia and the more than 1.5 million people involved in their care, we thank everyone for their support of Dementia Action Week 2023, from September 18 to 24.

While Dementia Action Week is only one week each year, the conversation and action to eliminate discrimination continues yearround. For information and tips on how you can continue working towards a dementia-friendly future, visit dementiafriendly.org.au.

Maree McCabe, Dementia Australia chief executive Joining the dots

Children join the dots to make a picture.

Adults in rural Victoria join the potholes when driving between towns.

Jim McInerney, Wycheproof

Club member Josh Brown said a typical game usually consisted of two players but could include three, four or even six people.

He said the game could be difficult to describe because of its intricacies, but the randomness of a dice roll allowed beginners to have a chance against even the most experienced players.

“That’s also where some of the fun story and narrative comes into it because the

dice determine everything,” he said. “You have those moments where it’s a two percent chance of it even happening, but it does and you always remember that – it’s what makes it fun.”

Horsham Warhammer will be hosting it’s come-and-try on Saturday, October 21 from noon to 5pm at Haven Hall. For more information, people can visit Horsham Warhammer on Facebook.

GAME ON: Horsham Warhammer events co-ordinator Josh Sykes is excited about the group’s come-and-try day on October 21. Picture: SEAN O’CONNELL

Plan for certainty

BY JESSICA GRIMBLE

Anew Ararat Rural City Council initiative seeks to provide greater certainty for future planning and projects, but the impact of a land tax means it will fall short of its ultimate aim.

The council has reduced the scope of its ‘Reframing the planning scheme’ project, excluding land rezoning due to the potential economic impact of windfall gains tax on property owners.

From July 1, the windfall gains tax applies to all land rezoned by the same planning scheme amendment, resulting in a value uplift to the land of more than $100,000.

The council’s project will now focus on undertaking environment, bushfire and flood studies; completing a planning study to implement the Aradale Development Strategy; developing council policies in relation to agricultural land, settlement and housing, and economic development and innovation; and assessing trunk infrastructure requirements to support future growth and development of the municipality.

Chief executive Dr Tim Harrison said the suite of studies were scheduled to occur before mid2024, costing about $410,000.

He said the original project budget was $700,000 and its reduced scope has meant significant cost savings for the council.

“This is our best attempt to achieve a range of the outcomes we would have had from the re-

framing of the planning scheme, without the unintended consequence of huge taxation bills going to landowners for land rezones as part of the process,” he said.

Dr Harrison said an assessment of key ‘trunk’ infrastructure requirements including wastewater and sewage, electricity and gas for residential and industrial properties would support future development.

He told last month’s council meeting that developers of even minor in-fill projects were paying tens-of-thousands of dollars for infrastructure such as electricity.

Cr Gwenda Allgood said some of the council’s existing planning studies were ‘completely outdated’.

“With the way that our community is growing at the moment, there are so many issues out there and we come up against all these stumbling blocks that we don’t need when we are trying to do something,” she said.

“To have this piece of the planning scheme done will make a huge difference to people’s lives and their ambitions.”

Crs Peter Beales, Henry Burridge and Bob Sanders were united in their disappointment, yet endorsement, of the revised project scope.

Cr Beales said: “I’m actually disappointed to support this motion – and it’s all because of the windfall gains tax.

“We’re going to lose an opportunity, because of that windfall gains tax, to give some certainty to the community where we see the development of the municipality.”

Cr Burridge acknowledged the project had been underway for about 12 months.

The council originally adopted the project in June 2022 with an aim to review the current planning scheme to provide land use certainty, rezoning of land to ensure sustainable growth of the municipality and incorporate recommendations of a ‘planning scheme review’ the council had adopted in April 2022.

The project has experienced delays, including impacts of the land tax.

“When it was initially mooted, I thought, this is a great opportunity to get some clarity to our planning scheme and get some certainty for developers,” Cr Burridge said. “We’re not going to be able to achieve that aim in totality and that is a result of the windfall gains tax, for sure.

“I don’t think it’s fair on any current landowners to impose that sort of impost on them.”

in the community

spotlight on LONGERENONG COLLEGE

The Avonbank Project, WIM Resource’s flagship mineral sands project, is currently in development with the aim to be a major employer in the region. WIM is committed to ongoing training and education in the resources and land management industries, and to establishing strong ties and effective partnerships with local and regional training organisations.

WIM is proud to partner with Longerenong College, who have been educating and producing young professionals for agriculture and other rural industries for over a century. This partnership provides opportunities for students to undertake research at the Avonbank Project test pit site, investigating the impacts of mineral sands mining and rehabilitation on soils and crops. In addition to the student research projects, WIM assists with potential programs and projects to improve the experience at Longerenong College.

Trio cycling for a cause

Three Horsham women will tackle a 120-kilometre bike ride to raise money for breast cancer on ‘Wear it Pink’ day later this month.

Horsham Norton Motor Group’s Lily Johnson, Sarah Arthur and Liz Brooks have been busy training in the lead-up to the ride, which will take them from Horsham to Warracknabeal and back again on October 21.

Ms Johnson said they thought it would be a good cause as the trio either had family and friends, or knew someone, who had been touched by the disease.

“We normally buy a seat with the AFL on their Pink Sports Day, but this year thought we would do something more,” she said.

“We also thought it would be appropriate to do it on ‘Wear it Pink’ day.

“We have never ridden that far in one day before. The most we’ve done is 60 kilometres, so we are very excited.”

Ms Brooks said she hoped their ride would raise awareness for breast cancer and fundraise for Breast Cancer Network Australia.

“Our goal is to raise $2000 and if people can’t donate, we’d love to see them wearing pink on October 21,” she said.

“Breast cancer is common – one in seven women and one in 500 men are diagnosed in their lifetime – so everyone knows someone who has been affected.”

The trio will ride to Warracknabeal via Blue Ribbon Road and will be taking a support vehicle for safety.

Donations can be made via bcna.grass rootz.com/actively-pink/norton-motorgroup-horsham

Hamilton Street, Horsham VIC 3400

PINK RIDE: Horsham Norton Motor Group’s Lily Johnson, Sarah Arthur and Liz Brooks will ride 120 kilometres on ‘Wear it Pink’ day to raise money for breast cancer. Picture: ABBY WALTER

“With the way that our community is growing at the moment, there are so many issues out there and we come up against all these stumbling blocks that we don’t need when we are trying to do something”

– Cr Gwenda Allgood

to compete in such a wonderful sport.

Create action for Wimmera children

At first glance, the Northern Territory and the Wimmera might not seem like places with much in common.

Sure, a hot dry climate and wide-open landscapes are familiar to both, however, if you were also told the outcomes of children were also closely aligned, most people would be stunned and question, ‘How could this be possible?’.

But it is true!

Up to one in three children are arriving at our local schools struggling to learn — well above the 20 percent average for a child in Victoria.

This simply is not good enough and we, as a community, are a critical part of the change required.

Wimmera children are our future. Our future farmers, retailers, miners, doctors and potential Prime Ministers.

They are also the key to the sustainability of our small townships and communities.

If our children are thriving, our communities will be thriving.

Lizzie Blandthorn may not be a well-known household name. However, last week she was appointed as Victoria’s Minister for Children, a role tasked with taking a whole-of-government approach to issues impacting children.

This prioritisation has the potential to eliminate challenges felt on a daily basis by Wimmera children, families and professionals trying to do their absolute best to navigate a complex system. The opportunity to amend systems to meet the needs of children, rather than asking families to adapt to systems, is the opportunity and hope of this role.

We simply need children to get what they need, as close to home as possible, regardless of which level of government is responsible, which department within the government holds the funds

COMMENT

with Jo Martin By Five Executive of cer

or which side of an arbitrary boundary you live. We know our rural communities are conscious of how resources are used, grateful for what they receive and, above all, practical in their ideas on how things could be improved.

By Five is committed to listening to families and communities, hearing what works, what is not working and balancing evidence with practicality to trial alternative ways of achieving better outcomes for children.

We will not accept that Wimmera children start life behind other Victorian children.

We do not accept that your postcode predicts whether you can progress through education, and we call out decisions that fail to support equity of access for all children.

We know that past actions have not achieved the outcomes we require, creating childcare deserts, inaccessible allied health and paediatric services, and we welcome the Wimmera to challenge the story and rewrite the future for children.

We truly believe the Wimmera could be the best place to raise a child, so let’s make this more than talk and create action.

• The By Five Wimmera Southern Mallee Early Years Initiative is a place-based community collaboration with the vision that, ‘Every child succeeds in learning and life’. Wimmera Southern Mallee Regional Partnership instigated the initiative, which formed in 2017 and works across five local government areas. This is the first of a monthly column.

(Podiatrist)

SHOW TIME: Emma Dickerson and Lucinda Smith steward the vegetable section in the pavilion at Goroke Show on Saturday. People flocked to the Goroke Showground for a day of fun and socialising. Lucinda was awarded junior show ambassador for the Goroke Agriculture and Pastoral Society this year.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Timely oval work starts

BY JESSICA GRIMBLE

The premier sporting facility in the Ararat Rural City municipality will undergo resurfacing works for the first time in decades.

Ararat Rural City Council endorsed plans, at a meeting last month, to commence resurfacing, drainage and irrigation works of Ararat’s Alexandra Oval this month to ensure the ground remains a regional showcase, prior to the 2024 football and netball season.

Surveying work indicated difficulties in the ‘shape’ of the existing surface, which leads to uneven water flow, making the surface ‘swampy’ in wet conditions.

Chief executive Dr Tim Harrison said Alexandra Oval was home to a number of sporting and community activities including football, netball, tennis, athletics and other events.

He said its playing surface, which ‘takes a remarkable amount of punishment’ during the winter sport season, has not had any major works completed since the 1980s.

It is home to two football-netball clubs who train and play on the Alexandra Oval surface four to five times a week.

Dr Harrison said a turf cricket wicket would be removed permanently, with a report citing there are ‘no longer sufficient cricket teams competing’ to justify the cost of

maintaining two turf wickets in Ararat; and it was difficult to recover the Alexandra Oval wicket after the winter sport season.

He said a Gordon Street Recreation Reserve redevelopment would soon be complete, offering a new, high-quality turf pitch for junior and senior teams competing in the Grampians Cricket Association. Dr Harrison said nearby councils had undertaken similar works, costing up to $1 million.

Ararat council officers have proposed using in-house resources to complete the Alexandra Oval works by February, costing about $200,000.

Councillor Gwenda Allgood said Alexandra Oval was the ‘jewel in the crown’.

“I don’t care what anybody says about the Wimmera league or any other area – this oval is just absolutely magnificent and it does need to have a little bit of work done on it. We realise that,” she said.

“If you go down there in the winter, it can get a bit wet and a bit sloppy and it does need a bit of a tidy up.

“Any work that’s done to improve it will be great for our players and great for our community.”

Dr Harrison said there would be ‘no surprises’ when the council renegotiated user agreements with clubs using the Alexandra Oval facilities to ensure the playing surface was not ‘overused’.

Jeparit Reconnect committee member Paul Bell is looking forward to a big weekend to celebrate multiple milestones across the township.

Celebration to ‘reconnect’ in Jeparit

Jeparit residents, current and former, are invited to reconnect with the town and its story at a jam-packed weekend of events.

Reconnect – Your Jeparit Journey will be bookended by a celebration of 115 years of Jeparit Golf Club on Friday next week, and the 125th Jeparit Show on the Sunday.

Reconnect committee member Paul Bell said it was set to be an exciting weekend.

“It all came about by talking with the Agriculture and Pastoral Society, which hasn’t been able to celebrate its 125th year yet,” he said.

“The golf club’s 115th anniversary was in June, but we held off on celebrating so we could combine it with a three-day event.”

Mr Bell said the weekend would begin with a barbecue lunch on the Friday at the golf club, while pet and wildlife artist Gayle Newcombe would open her gallery throughout the

Elders Southern Wool Report

WEEK 14 – Ending 1-10-23

day. “The Friday night will be a movie night at Jeparit Primary School with a movie for children and a movie for adults on the inflatable big screen,” he said.

“Saturday will begin with a breakfast at Menzies Square; throughout the day there will be walks at the museum, carriage rides from the museum into town and a historical display at the Memorial Hall.”

Mr Bell said the main event of Saturday was a cabaret at the Memorial Hall.

“It will be a great night with dancing, telling stories, a sit-down meal and music from the band, Time Warp,” he said.

“We expect 100 to 150 people will attend the cabaret.”

Mr Bell said the weekend would conclude with the town’s annual show, which will include a vehicle display, horse and carriage rides, a mini circus, a petting zoo and games

before a barbecue and music to end the day.

He said it was a community effort to have the event proceed.

“If you don’t involve the community when planning, nothing happens,” he said.

“It will be a good weekend for Jeparit.

“It’s a quiet small town and already the caravan park is almost booked out for the weekend. We have people coming from as far as Toowoomba.

“As it gets closer, excitement builds.

“Every person who I have spoken to who grew up in Jeparit loves it and has good memories of the town.

“We called it ‘Reconnect’ because it’s about people’s journey in Jeparit and bringing them back for the weekend.”

The event runs from October 20 to 22.

– Abby Walter

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Proposed law to address conduct

Anew Horsham council local law would consider improper conduct at council meetings an offence. The proposed ‘Common seal and conduct at meetings’ local law would make it an offence, at a meeting of the council, for a councillor, at the chair’s direction, to not withdraw an expression which is considered by the chair to be defamatory, indecent, abusive, offensive, disorderly or objectionable and to not satisfactorily apologise when called upon twice by the chair to do so; for any person, not being a councillor, who is regarded by the chair as having engaged in improper or disorderly conduct, to not leave the meeting when requested by the chair to do so; for any person to fail to obey a direction of the chair relating to the conduct of the meeting and the maintenance of order; for a councillor to refuse to leave the chamber on suspension; and for any person to have fraudulently signed a petition or joint letter which is presented to that meeting.

It details penalties applying to each offence, noting they are lower than the maximum amount which a court can order a person to pay.

The proposed changes will also regulate the use of the council’s ‘common seal’.

The proposed changes come ahead of the sunset of the council’s ‘local law no.1 governance (2016)’ in 2026. The majority of that local law was made redundant following introduction of the Local Government Act 2020 and adoption of the council’s governance rules.

O R S H A M R S L

The community has until Tuesday, October 24 to provide feedback.

Cr David Bowe said proper conduct was ‘key to democratic representation and good governance’, while the misuse of the council’s common seal could tarnish the council’s reputation.

“While I understand there is a need for this focus, I would like to point out we already have governance rules and a councillor code of conduct in place,” he said.

“These govern our role and directions and they serve us well. The question then is, do we need another layer of regulation?”

Cr Bowe said penalties should be ‘fair and equitable’ and the council needed to find a balance between order that did not discourage engagement.

Crs Claudia Haenel and Ian Ross expressed concern the changes might be an ‘overreach’ and used to ‘silence or exclude’.

Cr Haenel called for four weeks of community consultation, dated from the night of the council meeting, instead of the standard two weeks.

“I would hate to see this used for the wrong reasons,” Cr Haenel said of the changes.

“I also feel a little bit, since when did council become a judge and jury. Haven’t we got police officers for this kind of disorderly conduct in chamber?

“But it is going out to community to have their say on it, so that’s really critical and vital.”

People can read more, and provide feedback, via hrcc.vic.gov.au

OPTIONS: More than 50 Wimmera groups and organisations showcased their services during the Horsham and District Community Groups Expo at Horsham Town Hall on Wednesday. Among them were Alan Jolley, of Horsham Men’s Shed, and Mabel Brouwer, of Wimmera Growers of Australian Plants. Horsham and District U3A led the expo, scheduled during the Victorian Seniors Festival, for a second year – offering seniors across the region a chance to connect and learn more about local activities, events and groups. Picture: PAUL

CARRACHER

Projections, lights and music in St Arnaud

St Arnaud Gatherings 2023 will see Queen Mary Gardens light up in a wondrous display of projections, lights and music.

The event begins with lights in the gardens from 7.30pm on Saturday, followed by musician Eleanor Parry on her baby grand.

Jack Jones of Outlook Communications designed a night display of glamour, intrigue and adventure for the gardens event.

Artist Sally Wright will display artwork and sculpture across the gardens and as digital animations.

Artist Richard Baisley will have his sculptural work virtually inscribed onto a Bunja tree.

Displays of upcycled blooms and lanterns made from recycled materials created at community workshops run by Mary French and Jacinda will adorn an iconic Claret Ash tree.

The ‘Hothouse’ is an illuminated pop-up conservatory with interactive night-time digital animations to show beauty, growth and decay of nature, seen through the eyes of St Arnaud residents and set to an original soundtrack.

Pink Lake Creative designer Desiree Cross created the interactive animations.

Emerging multimedia artist Rogan Hando, with St Arnaud oracle Dorothy Patton, will illuminate stories

and secrets of the gardens through a ‘Talking Tree’.

Augmented reality will be popping up throughout St Arnaud on its murals including a raft of highly sociable ducks visiting the gardens.

‘The Hung-Over Gal’ will be serving snacks, tea, coffee and hot chocolate.

On Sunday morning there will be a guided walk at 10am from the Johnnie mural with Cross, which will celebrate several new augmented reality on St Arnaud town murals as well as visiting existing artwork. More information available at grampiansgatherings.com

Dadswells Bridge Grazing and Cropping property

Fenced into 4 paddocks with one dam. GWM pipeline available & Mount William Creek frontage. Property is in good health. Great add on or potential first farm venture. Stunning Grampians Outlook & Subdivision Potential (STCA). Inspections exclusively with listing agent.

Terms: 10% Deposit on signing of contracts balance and possession 15th December 2023. Highest or any tender not necessarily accepted. Tender Documents will be available from Nutrien Harcourts Stawell office at 15 Horsham Rd, Stawell.

Tenders Close: at Nutrien Harcourts Stawell at 1.00pm on Friday 3rd November 2023.

An unexpected step

Australia’s annual inflation rate has taken an unexpected step up, increasing pressure on the Reserve Bank to push interest rates higher and once again raising the prospect that Australia will fall into recession sometime during the next few months.

The annual inflation rate for the year to August reached 5.2 percent, up from 4.9 percent recorded for the year to July, spurred by higher prices for petrol, financial services and labour costs, following a 5.75 percent wage rise for 2.4 million Australian workers in July.

Some analysts believe recent wage increases and the Federal Government’s drive to reduce unemployment levels below their current historic low levels and provide more union friendly workplace regulations, will combine to push wages even higher.

The prospect of further wage hikes, low productive improvements combined with continued high levels of inflation, threatens to return the Australian economy to the dismal economic days of the ’70s and with it, stagflation.

Of all the domestic price hikes though, higher petrol prices are seen as the most troubling as they have such significant flowthrough effects, making everything in the country more expensive to produce and so lifting the cost of living for all Australians.

The prospect of higher oil prices internationally, following a deci-

FINANCE focus

with Robert Goudie CFP GradDipFP Consortium Private Wealth

sion by Russia and Saudi Arabia to restrict production to boost prices, has cast gloom across the global economy, putting economies everywhere under pressure of higher energy costs.

Globally, US Treasury 10-year bond yields rose to above 4.5 percent during the past month, taking them to their highest level since the global crisis started in 2007, as fears mount that climbing inflation will persist for years to come.

This, and the generally accepted downturn in growth in the massive Chinese economy, is prompting fears overseas that the US economy will certainly fall into recession next year, with developed countries around the world certain to follow.

While there was hope the Reserve Bank was succeeding in driving down inflation, this latest uptick in prices and overseas interest rates, will put the Reserve Bank under renewed pressure to lift domestic rates yet again. Although the much-talked-about fixed-rate mortgage cliff seems to have been averted, where homeowners have faced the end of super low fixed rate loans and been forced to move to higher variable rate loans, pressure is emerging in the housing market.

Figures from the research house, Core Logic, show the number of homes that have been sold at a nominal loss, and which have only been owned for two years or less, has increased from 2.7 percent to 9.7 percent during the June quarter.

Pressure is building most clearly in the sale of home units, with 14.4 percent of all unit sales across Australia selling at a loss during the June quarter, compared to 3.8 percent of all homes sold during the same time. There also seems to be a trend where people who moved to the regions during the pandemic are starting to sell up and drift back to the cities.

Resales within two years of purchase made up 11.1 percent of all regional resales, compared to a decade average of 7.2 percent a year.

A rare bright spot for investors remains the hefty returns to shareholders, with Australia’s largest listed companies paying out some $21.7 billion during the last week in September, by way of improved dividend payments.

BHP paid out $6.34 billion to their shareholders via a $1.25 per share dividend, Fortesque Metal paid out $3 billion via a $1 a share dividend and after posting a record-breaking profit, the Commonwealth Bank of Australia paid out $4 billion by way of a $2.40 a share dividend. • The information provided in this article is general in nature only and does not constitute personal financial advice.

ACCOMPLISHMENT: Learning trends at Dimboola Memorial Secondary College are tracking up as students were presented academic and effort awards for their schoolwork in term three. From left, Stella Williams, Rian Pyers, Evie Everett, Ava Henderson, Temika Greig and Victoria Ward scored well in the awards. Principal Sally Klinge said academic awards were presented for a score of 95 percent or above for an assessment task in any subject. She said effort awards were presented for 95 percent effort or more in a subject. Victoria received 19 academic awards and five effort awards; Stella 16 academic awards and six effort awards; Temika 13 academic awards and seven effort awards; Ava 11 academic awards and three effort awards; Rian 10 academic awards and three effort awards; and Evie 10 academic awards and one effort award. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

New world-class endurance race

Grampians Peaks Trail will test some of the world’s best endurance athletes next month for the newest world-class trail race, the GPT 100 Miler.

Trail runners will pass through rugged and varied terrain on a 100-mile route in Grampians National Park, Gariwerd, from November 23 to 26.

Grampians Tourism chief executive Marc Sleeman said he was excited to support the team at SingleTrack Events and their inaugural trail race along the world-class Grampians Peaks Trail.

The race starts at Mt Zero and heads to Halls

Gap, a leg that is ‘easy to move through at speed despite being the longest leg at 50km’.

The second section is considered the most difficult, leading runners towards Mount William with continuous climbs and technical tracks.

The third section combines short climbs, rock hopping and faster terrain and the final section traverses the southern Grampians featuring steep ascents, stairs to Mount Abrupt and Mount Sturgeon summit, and a river trail into Dunkeld.

People wanting more information can go to gpt100.com.au

L a d i e s

L a d i e s

C h i p & S i p

C h i p & S i p

L a d i e s C h i p & S i p

COLOURRUN 2023

Golf and Cocktails go hand in hand at Chalambar’s Chip & Sip Ladies golf clinics Come and learn the basics of golf while enjoying a refreshing cocktail on a Sunday afternoon

Golf and Cocktails go hand in hand at Chalambar’s Chip & Sip Ladies golf clinics Come and learn the basics of golf while enjoying a refreshing cocktail on a Sunday afternoon

Golf and Cocktails go hand in hand Chalambar’s Chip & Sip Ladies golf clinics Come and learn the basics of golf while enjoying a refreshing cocktail on a Sunday afternoon

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19 - 5PM TO 7.30PM @ OVAL BEHIND HAVEN PRIMARY SCHOOL

Time: 11:30am

2 0 2 4 C h i p & S i p S e a s o n

2 0 2 4 C h i p & S i p S e a s o n

Time: 11:30am

2 0 2 4 C h i p & S i p S e a s o n Time: 11:30am

TICKETS @ THE GATE

Oct 15th | Cosmo Chipping

Oct 15th | Cosmo Chipping

Oct 15th | Cosmo Chipping

Oct 29th | Fairways and Fruit Tingles

Nov 12th | Pitching with Pimms

Nov 26th | Tequila Tee Shots

Dec 10th | Malibu Madori Magic

Price: $30 per class

Price: $30 per class

(price includes 1 cocktail)

(price includes 1 cocktail)

Price: $30 per class (price includes 1 cocktail)

Contact Taine Pearse at 0419977170 to Book in Classess limited to 10

GATE ENTRY: $5 PER PERSON

$20 PER FAMILY

COLOUR RUN: $2 PER PERSON

Open to all kids & adults 5pm Mini market with stalls

6pm Colour run

BBQ tea on the night, face painting & games for gold coin donations

Golf and Cocktails go hand in hand at Chalambar’s Chip & Sip Ladies golf clinics Come and learn the basics of golf while enjoying a

Kaniva project wins support

WestWimmera Shire Council will apply for funding to upgrade lighting at Kaniva Recreation Reserve oval after identifying it as a priority from five projects.

The council, at its September meeting, nominated a delegate committee of Cr Trevor Domaschenz, mayor Tim Meyer and council officer John Hutchins to vote on a motion to select the project.

Crs Jodie Pretlove, Bruce Meyer and Tom Houlihan declared a conflict of interest.

The delegate committee resolved to apply for $250,000 from the State Government’s Country Football Netball Funding Program 2023-24.

If the grant application is successful, the council will contribute up to $38,334 towards the project and Kaniva-Leeor United Football Netball Club will contribute up to $45,000.

The proposed upgrade will involve replacement of existing lighting poles at the oval, significantly improving the quality and coverage of lighting for both players and spectators.

Cr Meyer said the lighting upgrade would not only improve the quality of play for the football club, but also create a safer and more welcoming environment for everyone who enjoyed the facilities.

“The current lights do not meet AFL standards and do not give out enough light to cover the entire ground, which can make night-time training sessions difficult,” he said.

“We are grateful for the support we

have received from Kaniva-Leeor United for this project and eagerly anticipate the outcome of our funding application.”

Other projects considered for the application were oval lighting at Apsley, Harrow and Edenhope recreation reserves and fencing and irrigation at Goroke Recreation Reserve. The risk with the Apsley project was the committee of management would not be able to contribute funding.

At Edenhope, one of the light towers would be located on a parcel of land that had not been confirmed as belonging to the Edenhope-Apsley Football Netball Club. The council continues to try to ascertain who has ownership of the land. There were no obvious risks identified for projects at Goroke or Harrow.

At Kaniva, the risk was the council currently services the electricity and ongoing costs would be paid by the council, however, user agreements for recreation reserve users could be considered.

Cr Meyer told the meeting the council supported all applications and hoped, over time, all projects would receive funding.

He said, in terms of football, eight games and all training for Kaniva-Leeor United occurred at the reserve, compared to four games and half of Harrow-Balmoral’s training at Harrow, four games and most of Edenhope-Apsley’s training at Edenhope, four games and some Edenhope-Apsley training at Apsley, and three games with some training at Goroke.

“We know the Kaniva project is in the best position to be successful – it gets the most use and upgrades have already been done,” he said.

New park investing in shire’s youth

Stawell and district young people are celebrating the opening of the new Stawell Skate Park.

The skate park, located at North Park in Lamont Street, has transformed from a series of steel structures to a modern concrete course catering for all ages.

Northern Grampians mayor Kevin Erwin said the skate park project balanced the needs and wants of the community with suitable funding opportunities to advance plans.

The Northern Grampians Youth

Strategy 2014 highlighted the project as a priority, with several sites reviewed in 2019 to establish an appropriate location before design work occurred in 2022 and eventual construction in April.

“The young people of our shire and the families who live here are the lifeblood of this town and, ultimately, the work that we do is for them. This is something that we understand on a generational level in the Northern Grampians shire,” he said.

“We try to ensure the projects

that mean the most to our residents are prioritised, because they are at the heart of everything we do and their future matters to us.

“We would like each of our towns to offer the facilities that families need to thrive.”

The project required more than 300 tonnes of concrete to construct and cost more than $655,000. A Federal Government ‘Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Grant’ enabled the project to progress.

Day for Wimmera growers, agronomists

Wimmera growers and agronomists are invited to attend the Southern Pulse Agronomy Wimmera Pulse Field Day to learn about the latest lentil, chickpea, field pea, faba bean and vetch research.

The event is on Thursday, October 19 at Dooen.

Come Join Our Team!

Wimmera Aquatrail Shop Assistant

Wimmera Aquatrail currently has an exciting position for an energetic salesperson. This is a diverse position to work in a business that caters to the sale of irrigation, plumbing, and landscaping supplies and services in the Wimmera region.

Previous experience in landscaping or nursery would be highly valued but not essential. We will provide on-the-job and external product training from industry leaders.

Agriculture Victoria senior research agronomist Jason Brand said with a drier spring forecast, he expected growers would have different questions for researchers and industry experts this year.

He said attendees could interact face-to-face with agronomy, pa-

thology, breeding, marketing and trading experts and make informed decisions for this year’s crop and beyond.

More information is available at agriculture.vic.gov.au/support-andresources/event-listing

The Position:

• Irrigation and pump salesperson

• Customer service in all areas of the business

• Computer knowledge a plus

• The position is full-time, part-time or casual and will form part of a weekend roster

• Remuneration- above award rates

About you

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

• Willingness to learn all areas of the business

• Interest in irrigation and nursery practices

If you are looking for employment security and value the importance of great customer service with good attention to detail, then this could be the perfect job for you.

To express your interest in this position, please email a cover letter and your resume to apply@chsgroup.com.au or call in and see us at Wimmera Aquatrail, 2 Apricot Ave Horsham

For Sale by Tender 85 Burnt Creek Drive, Bungalally

Liquidation Sale

Located just off the Western Highway and opposite the Horsham Regional Livestock Exchange is this prime industrial site.

* Includes portable building, a shed, large concrete slab & a silo

* 20.06 Hectares

* Building Size: 70.31 sq.m.

* Zoning: Industrial 1 Zone (IN1Z)

* Tenders Close on November 3, 2023 at noon Property ID: 7756490

FUN IN THE SUN: Levey Lang, 10, enjoys the new Stawell Skate Park. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

HORSHAM SPRING GARDEN FESTIVAL

Long-anticipated return

Horsham Spring Garden

Festival will come to life this weekend for the first time in four years.

The event at Horsham Botanic Gardens runs from 9am to 5pm on Saturday and Sunday and is the latest instalment in the festival’s history spanning more than 30 years.

It will include floral displays, plants and gardening exhibits and is aimed at both gardening enthusiasts and visitors.

The festival returns after a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic and floods in the region last year.

The festival’s chairperson Phil Lohrey said guest speaker Vasili Kanidiadis would be among major attractions and reasons to attend the two-day event.

Kanidiadis is the host of television show ‘Vasili’s Garden’ and will speak on topics including soil feeding, organic food, plant protection, ingredients for sprays and fruit trees.

“He’s going to speak twice each day — once in the morning and once in the afternoon, about all things gardening,” Mr Lohrey said.

“He will be mingling all day as well, so prepare any questions you have for him.”

Mr Lohrey said there would be live music from Horsham and Natimuk brass bands, Horsham Pipe Band and the Australian Mechanical Organ Society.

He said Horsham Botanic Gar-

dens would be fitted out with a shaded food court, a variety of exhibitors and space for activities.

“It’s the same sort of formula as previous years and it will be a good family outing,” Mr Lohrey said.

“Horsham Urban Landcare will be running a couple of activities for children. It’s also a good opportuni-

THE 33RD ANNUAL

ty to check out the botanic gardens.

“The Horsham Rural City Council’s parks and gardens team have put in a lot of hard work to get it prepared for this time of year.”

Mr Lohrey said opportunities for gardeners would include nurseries, outdoor furniture and garden furniture.

Weekend program

Horsham Spring Garden Festival will offer activities, showcase a range of exhibitors and provide a day out for the whole family at Horsham Botanic Garden this weekend.

Saturday

There will be a short welcome and open for trading at 9am, with Don Papst providing musical entertainment.

Horsham Rural City Council deputy mayor Penny Flynn will officially open the festival at 2pm.

Sunday

There will be an exhibitors presentation at 10am.

A raffle will be drawn and thanks delivered at 3pm.

Both days

Keynote speaker Vasili Kanidiadis to host a talk and answer questions at 11am and 2pm on both days.

Horsham Brass Band, Natimuk Brass Band and Horsham Pipe Band will perform throughout the weekend. Members of the Australian Mechanical Organ Society will also attend with five trailer-mounted organs and up to 12 smaller hand-operated organs, operating across both days of the festival.

“The festival is for experienced gardeners and inexperienced gardeners — you don’t have to be a professional,” he said.

He said sustainability-themed exhibits, demonstrations and presentations would also feature, aiming to promote eco-friendly and sustainable gardening practices.

Haven Primary School will run a sausage sizzle and drinks and the Country Women’s Association will sell Devonshire teas while the Rotary Club of Horsham coffee van will be on-site, along with various outside vendors.

A spinning wheel will award spot prizes during both days.

Note: This program is subject to change. There may be other sights and activities during the festival.

HORSHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS

OCTOBER 14 & 15, 2023

Special Guest Vasili Kanidiadis

SATURDAY & SUNDAY SPEAKER

Expert horticulturalist and host of ‘Vasili’s Garden’ on television.

Vasili will be speaking on topics around: soil feeding, organic food, plant protection, ingredients for sprays, fruit trees and more!

FEATURING A VIBRANT DISPLAY OF BLOOMING FLOWERS, PLANTS AND GARDENING EXHIBITS, OFFERING GARDENING ENTHUSIASTS AND VISITORS A DELIGHTFUL OPPORTUNITY TO EXPLORE AND APPRECIATE THE REGION’S HORTICULTURAL WONDERS.

THE FESTIVAL ALSO INCLUDES SUSTAINABLE LIFESTYLE FOCUSED EXHIBITS, DEMONSTRATIONS, AND PRESENTATIONS, PROMOTING ECO-FRIENDLY AND SUSTAINABLE GARDENING PRACTICES.

FREE ENTRY FOR CHILDREN | CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES BY HORSHAM URBAN LANDCARE

READY: Horsham Spring Garden Festival committee members Don Perry and Phil Lohrey prepare for the weekend’s event at Horsham Botanic Gardens.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Use water wisely

Water storages across the Grampians, Wimmera and Mallee remain secure leading into summer, however GWMWater recommends residents continue to use water-saving strategies in their gardens as the weather warms.

GWMWater managing director Mark Williams said statewide permanent water-saving rules apply to GWMWater urban customers year-round unless staged water restrictions are in force.

“There are no water restrictions in force throughout the GWMWater region,” he said.

“Permanent water-saving rules do not apply to recycled, rain, grey or reclaimed water collected in a storage tank.”

Mr Williams said there was an increase in water demand during warmer months with the use of evaporative air conditioners and watering of garden and lawn areas.

“Customers may also use more water by topping up home swimming pools,” he said.

“To fill a large swimming pool or spa – more than 2000 litres – permission from GWMWater is required.”

Garden water-saving tips

GWMWater’s tips for saving water in the garden include using a leak-free trigger nozzle, always turning off taps and watering thoroughly rather than often.

It recommends choosing hardy, drought-proof plants and lawns and keeping lawn watering to a minimum by encouraging deep root growth and keeping a weed-free lawn.

GWMWater also encourages people to fertilise lawns in late winter to encourage deep-rooted grasses and use mulch to ensure reduced water loss from evaporation.

Permanent rules

There are five permanent water-saving rules. Hand-held hoses should be fitted with a trigger nozzle and kept leak-free.

Watering should be done in mornings and evenings or overnight if using a watering system. Avoid watering during the main daylight hours

as this water is likely to evaporate before it can be absorbed by plants and lawns.

The third rule is to use re-circulated water for ponds and water features.

Do not use water to clean hard surfaces, such as driveways, paths, concrete, tiles and timber decking, except when cleaning after an accident, fire, health hazard or other emergency, during construction or renovation and if there is a stain. The final rule is, all rules also apply to public gardens, lawns and playing surfaces.

Climate drivers

The Bureau of Meteorology declared an El Niño event and a positive Indian Ocean Dipole in September.

Mr Williams said the two climate drivers typically brought hot and dry conditions to the GWMWater region during this time of year.

“This means there is likely to be increased evaporation from reservoirs and an increased demand for water,” he said.

“With the current volume in storage, there is a very high level of water security, and the volume currently held in storage represents multiple years of water demand.

“The reservoirs are currently holding very large volumes, predominantly the result of well aboveaverage inflows in the spring of 2022.”

Mr Williams said as of September 27, Grampians reservoirs were holding 76.3 percent of total storage capacity.

“Inflows to reservoirs in the current water year – since July 2023 – have been below average due to well below average rainfall in the period from July to September 2023,” he said.

“By virtue of the investment in the WimmeraMallee pipeline, the water system of the Wimmera Mallee is secure.

“We are thankful for the investments of the Commonwealth and state governments into water infrastructure in our region.”

More information about permanent water saving rules is available at gwmwater.org.au/ conserving-water/water-restrictions/permanentwater-saving-rules

Decorations create atmosphere

Decorating gardens will be a topic of conversation at this weekend’s Horsham Spring Garden Festival, with exhibitors providing patrons plenty of options.

Smallaire’s Paul Lewis said the business’ site would give people an idea of the range of possibilities to decorate gardens and outdoor areas.

“We will be featuring lots of different garden ornaments, including animals in different shapes and sizes,” Mr Lewis said.

“We also do signage to go against walls — whether it be an emblem, a family shield or a steel tree cut-out — to put a bit of pop in your garden or a bit of fun at the entrance.”

He said decorating a green space often came down to personal preferences and was about finding ‘specific things for specific gardens’.

“Especially in spring and summer, the entrance to someone’s garden or their property is something they take a lot of pride in,” Mr Lewis said.

“That’s where a lot of people would like that unique item — whether it be a letterbox, a sign at the front of their house or lettering on their front gate.

“We design things specifically for people, in different sizes, colours and shapes.

“Your imagination is the only thing that is stopping you.”

Wimmera Aquatrail’s Adam Brockenbrow said additional elements to gardens, including sculptures and water features, listed its atmosphere.

“They can create a focal point in a garden or even provide a sensory effect. There’s a cooling effect when you can hear water running,” he said.

“Birdbaths also work to give local, native birds somewhere to bath and have a drink.

“Water features are a big seller for us and we have plenty of pots as well.”

OPTIONS: Paul Lewis of Smallaire prepares for the spring garden festival.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Prime time for planting

BY ABBY WALTER

Warmer weather, longer days of sunshine and the chance of rain means spring is the best time of year to plant flowers and vegetables in home gardens.

Wimmera Aquatrail’s Brenda Marsh said many plants emerged from dormancy in spring and began to flower.

“People should be planting now, especially veggies, to give summer crops the best chance,” she said.

“Planting can be done with seedlings or seeds, but seeds take another six weeks to emerge and see growth.

“Everything looks nice and colourful at this time of year.”

Popular flowers to plant in spring in Victoria include petunias, snapdragons, marigolds and geraniums.

Common herbs planted in spring include basil, chives, coriander, dill, mint, oregano, parsley, sage and thyme.

Vegetables and fruits that tend to thrive in Victoria when planted in spring include strawberries, leeks, onions, parsnip, radishes, spinach, sweet corn, beetroot, tomatoes, peas, silver beet, lettuce, swedes, turnips and cucumber.

Ms Marsh said warm weather also encouraged people to get out and about in their gardens.

“It’s too hot in the Wimmera to plant during summer, so everyone does their planting now,” she said.

“Everybody gets into the garden this time of year because the rain and a bit of sun is good for the plants.

“We could do with more rain, or people need to keep their watering up.”

Ms Marsh said she hoped to see

eegank

Fly protection

Agriculture Victoria is encouraging home gardeners to boost their harvest and protect the state’s horticulture industry against Queensland fruit fly by netting fruit trees.

State fruit fly co-ordinator Cathy Mansfield said insect netting was the best way to ensure fruit flies wouldn’t attack fruit and vegetables.

“It’s important to check and mend any holes in the netting with string, fishing line or polyester thread. Another option is to clamp holes with bulldog clips,” she said.

“Nets should be applied after the flower petals fall off fruit trees such as apricots, peaches, apples, cherries and loquats.

“For continuously flowering berries and fruit berries such as tomatoes, eggplants and capsicums, the netting should be applied after most of the flowering has occurred but while fruit is still small.”

Ms Mansfield said draping a large net over small and medium-sized fruit trees was a simple task if two people worked together. “Make sure you secure the netting tightly to the trunk of the tree or firmly to the ground to prevent fruit flies from entering at the base of the tree,” she said.

“There are commercially produced frames that you can drape your netting over, but there are other do-it-yourself options such as bending poly pipe and securing the pipe onto star pickets.

“The poly pipe option is particularly good for berry crops and fruiting vegetables.”

many people at Horsham’s Spring Garden Festival at the weekend.

“We’re getting 60 trays of vegetable seedlings in for the event and have many more plants, which look great,” she said.

Wimmera Aquatrail’s Adam Brockenbrow said the business’ site

at the festival in Horsham would contain everything from edibles to large ornamental trees and indoor plants to natives.

“The warm weather in spring makes it the prime time of year to plant more in any garden,” he said.

Ms Mansfield advised people to build a frame around larger trees to apply netting.

“A sturdy wooden or metal frame is a good solution for very large trees however the netting will need to be removable as bees need access to the flowers to ensure pollination,” she said.

IN BLOOM: Wimmera Aquatrail’s Adam Brockenbrow knows spring is the best time of year for plants as everything comes out to flower.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Tips to stay tidy

As the weather becomes warmer, people are spending more time outdoors and in their gardens – and discovering maintenance requirements.

Lop the Top Tree Services’ Aaron Dean said while his work was year-round and not dependent on seasons, trees tended to grow more during spring.

“Spring is the time when trees come out of dormancy and really take off,” he said.

“However, now is not the time to prune but rather, the best time is when trees are in dormancy.

“The main reasons trees need to be cut back is when they are encroaching on a house or shed, when they are too large for a space and when it looks to have been storm damaged.”

Mr Dean said pruning was part of general maintenance.

He said signs a tree was dying, which could be caused by a variety of reasons, included browning, loose leaves and excessive weed growth around the base of the tree.

“Even though we work on tree removal and

pruning, that doesn’t always mean that’s what has to be done,” he said.

“We will always ask why a tree needs to be removed and if we can do something to prevent that, we will.

“To look after trees it’s best to give them a good layer of mulch so moisture doesn’t evaporate and don’t crowd them with pavers, so the moisture can get to the roots.”

Wimmera Mallee Ag spare parts interpreter

Shaun Taylor said as daytime temperatures increased, mowers started moving more because grass was growing quicker.

He recommended mowing once a week in spring to keep lawns neat.

“The more often you mow, the less maintenance a lawn needs. At this time of year, people mow once every two weeks at least,” he said.

Mr Taylor said zero-turn mowers were popular, as was the Bobcat range with capacity to mulch grass so there was no need for a catcher and lawns still looked good after the mowing process was complete.

TV personality to entertain

A keynote speaker will be among the attractions at this weekend’s festival, discussing all things gardening for all levels of experience.

Television personality and horticulture expert Vasili Kanidiadis will travel to the region for the two-day event at Horsham Botanic Gardens, where he will combine gardening know-how and his skills as an entertainer.

Kanidiadis will speak twice a day during the festival, at 11am and 2pm, about a range of topics from soil feeding, organic food, plant protection, ingredients for sprays and fruit trees.

Kanidiadis is the host of the program ‘Vasili’s Garden’, which has featured on community television as well as public and commercial stations. Each episode of the show focuses on plants and produce from home gardens in Victoria, emphasising traditional and organic methods of gardening and healthy eating.

This focus on organic methods will match the spring garden festival’s emphasis on sustainability and its promotion of environmentally friendly and responsible gardening practices.

Zesty all-wheel drive

MGMotor Australia and New Zealand has announced pricing and details for its incoming MG4 XPower.

The zesty all-wheel drive variant features a 320kW-600Nm all-electric powertrain and enthusiastic 3.8second zero to 100kmh time – for just $59,990 plus on-road costs.

The variant is the most powerful MG in Australia to date and is available for pre-registration via the MG public website.

MG’s high-powered, all-wheel drive and full-electric hatch is said to deliver ‘breathtaking power and dynamics’ from its dual-motor driveline and boasts a series of ‘understated exterior design revisions’ to differentiate it from the derivative line-up.

MG says the vehicle is ‘expected to fly under the radar in comparison to the usual high-powered hatchback offerings’, characterised only by orangepainted brake callipers, a two-tone black roof, new-look 18-inch alloy wheels with polished trim accents and Bridgestone Turanza tyres, and an exclusive new Hunter Green paint option.

Like the MG4 on which it is based,

MG4 XPower is underpinned by MG’s

Modular Scalable Platform, MSP, and new dual-motor configuration.

The front motor delivers 150kW and the rear 170kW, a ‘technological upgrade’ claimed to ‘effectively distribute power and maximise driver engagement while cornering’.

The technology, dubbed Dynamic Cornering Control System, is offered for the first time on the MG4 XPower, combining an electronic locking dif-

ferential and Intelligent Motor Control to allow torque vectoring between all four wheels.

MG says the system generates maximum traction and outstanding composure across a wide variety of driving conditions.

Further, the MG4 XPower boasts a comprehensive range of suspension upgrades, including recalibrated spring and damper tuning, stiffer antiroll bars and a sharper steering tune.

MG says overall suspension stiffness is increased by 25 percent, meaning the MG4 XPower will build upon the acclaimed handling characteristics of the current MG4 range.

Increased stopping power from fourwheel 345mm ventilated rotors is said to reduce the MG4 XPower’s 1000kmh braking distance to just 33.9 metres.

The MG4 XPower features a familiar 64kWh battery, which may be

charged at a rate of up to 140kW, topping the pack’s charge from 10 to 80 percent in 26 minutes.

MG Motor Australia and New Zealand chief executive Peter Ciao said the MG4 XPower had supercar performance, packed with features including launch control and a track modelinspired lap timer, showing a compact EV can be affordable, practical and spirited to drive.

– Matt Brogan

Continuous refinement

Mitsubishi has announced updates for its long-serving ASX small SUV, with the MY24 range to introduce an ES Street accessory pack from $30,490 plus on-road costs, in addition to lane departure warning on ES and MR variants.

The entire range is also affected by a $500 price increase, the entry-grade GS manual now starting from $24,490 plus on-road costs.

Australian production of the updated MY24 ASX range commenced last month, with the facelift due in showrooms before the end of the year.

Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited, MMAL, says the updates are part of the brand’s focus on continuous model refinement, with the ES Street accessory pack, in particular, bringing a ‘unique aesthetic’ to the ASX range.

Designed for the Australian market, the Mitsubishi ASX ES Street accessory pack adds a large front spoiler in black, front and rear skid plates in black with red highlights, a tailgate protector and door handle covers, stainless steel sill panel covers, an aluminium and leather-trimmed

gear shifter, side decal package, and ‘Street’ tailgate decal.

MMAL says the ASX ES Street accessory pack is available only with certain paint selections, namely white diamond, sterling silver and black.

All carryover the ES’ black cloth upholstery.

Further to the introduction of the ASX ES Street accessory pack, the MY24 ASX range sees the addition of lane departure warning as standard on ES and MR grades.

The important safety feature issues an audible alert and shows a warning on the multifunction display if the vehicle drifts from its lane while the turn signals are not operating.

Changes elsewhere in the range are minimal, the ASX adhering closely to the style and specification adopted with the earlier MY23 update.

MMAL says the GS variant plays a ‘vital’ role in the model’s success.

The 2024 Mitsubishi ASX GS is powered by a carryover 110kW197Nm two-litre four-cylinder petrol engine driving the front wheels via the choice of a five-speed manual or continuously variable transmission.

Combined-cycle fuel economy is

listed at 7.7 litres per 100km for the manual and 7.6 litres for the CVT.

The variant is characterised by colour-coded door handles, mirror caps and rear garnish, and includes a rear spoiler with integrated LED stop light, LED headlights, silver grille and 16inch steel wheels.

Inside, the ASX GS is upholstered in black cloth, features a grey headlining, and is adorned with piano black and chrome garnishing.

The second-row seats fold 60:40 for improved versatility and include two ISOFIX and three top-tether child seat anchorages.

An eight-inch central infotainment

array hosts Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, Bluetooth audio capability, voice control, DAB+ digital radio reception, dual USB ports and four speakers.

Safety technology continues to include front, side, curtain and driver’s knee airbags, anti-lock braking with EBD, brake override and emergency stop signal function, emergency brake assist system, forward collision mitigation, hill-start assist and a rear-view camera.

MMAL chief executive Shaun Westcott said the ASX continued to be a mainstay model for Mitsubishi in Australia.

UPDATE: Australian production of the updated MY24 ASX range commenced last month, with the facelift due in showrooms before the end of the year.

“Customers love it for its design, interior spaciousness, legendary reliability, and class-leading aftersales support, including the available 1010 Diamond Advantage warranty and servicing program,” he said.

“Demand for ASX continues to be strong and our dealers consistently sell their entire planned monthly allocations, which further demonstrates its enduring popularity.

“Now with the ASX ES Street accessory pack, we can offer another distinctive ASX flavour to our customers.”

– Matt Brogan

The end of a full-size Nissan ute

Thesurge of interest in fullsize, American-sourced pickup trucks has come too late for Nissan Australia, with the announcement that production of its Titan ‘ute’ has come to an end in North America.

Speaking to GoAuto at the launch of the Patrol Warrior in Tasmania, Nissan Australia managing director Adam Paterson said although following the likes of Chevrolet 1500, via General Motors Special Vehicles; Ford F-150, via Ford Australia and others; and Ram 1500, via Ateco – the right-hand drive conversion path had been considered, but the success of the Warrior program had leveraged better returns.

“Obviously, we had thought about it, and the benefit of having the wide global range that we do is that we have a large portfolio of products that we can work to try and bring to market if they fit,” he said.

“In the last little bit, four years, I believe the efforts that we have put in with regards to the Warrior program has delivered more volume and satisfied more customers in Australia than would have been the case were we focused on a full-size pick-up.

“We also felt that work and challenge and market for the Titan would be better invested in our existing Navara and Patrol – the one-tonne market is a far larger market here than the

full-size market, which made it a better business decision.”

In hindsight, any decision toward a right-hand conversion program for Titan would have been short-lived. Nissan recently announced the end

of production for its Titan for the United States, following the cessation of the model for Canada back in 2021. Production of the body-on-frame ‘truck’ for the US market is scheduled to come to an end within weeks.

Nissan North America, in a statement, revealed production of the Nissan Titan was scheduled to end in summer 2024 at its Canton plant in Mississippi.

“Under Nissan’s Ambition 2030 vi-

sion of an electrified future, we are accelerating the process of transforming the Canton plant with the latest in EV manufacturing technology,” the statement read.

“This will allow us to support production of two all-new, all-electric vehicles.

“Titan has been an important nameplate for Nissan in North America for 20 years, and we are grateful to the dealers, customers and thousands of employees who have played pivotal roles throughout Titan’s lifecycle.”

Compared to its rivals, the Nissan Titan failed to generate the level of buyer interest required to keep the model afloat.

With only V8 petrol and Cumminssourced V8 turbo-diesel options available, the Titan did not offer more efficient powertrains to compete with its nearest competitors, selling just 52,924 units in its best year and 2.2 market share points, against a projected 100,000 units and five market share points.

In the United States last year, the Nissan Titan sold a total of just 15,063 units – or roughly double that of the combined number of Americansourced pick-ups sold in Australia during the same period.

– Matt Brogan

DAILY CONVENTIONAL CROSSWORD 15 X 15 GRID O

Quick Workout

1 5 4 6 1 5 3 6 7 1 8 3 7 4 5 1 9 4 7 2 6 9 1

Fill in the blank cells using numbers from 1 to 9. Each number can only appear once in each row, column and 3x3 block. Focus

FOCUS

An All Australian Word Game

* Each word must contain the centre ‘Focus’ letter and each letter may be used only once

* Each word must be four letters or more

* Find at least one nine letter word

* No swear words

* No verb forms or plurals ending in ‘s’

* No proper nouns and no hyphenated words

TODAY’S Good: 15 words

FOCUS Very good: 24 words

Excellent: 37 words

Spot the 5 Differences

Sudoku Join the Dots

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.

YESTERDAY’S SOLUTION appear arak area bake baker bare barer bark barker beak bear brake break kappa papa paper PAPERBARK pare park parka parker peak pear rake rape rapper rare reap rear

Reference: Macquarie Concise Dictionary

Focus No. 3894

What is this? Find out by joining the dots.

Quick Crossword

Crossword

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.

Take a

On This Day

1. What was the name of the prominent Australian Test cricketer from Stawell who in 10 matches captured 42 wickets at an average of 37.4 while representing Australia in the 1930s and whose family was heavily involved in the former Pleasant Creek News and Stawell Chronicle newspapers?

2. What Australian Prime Minister in what year said during an election campaign: “By 1990 no Australian child will be living in poverty.”?

3. While walking through the bush or exploring gardens we might chance upon the odd chrysalis. What is it?

4. What rock band ‘went down to Santa Fe where Renoir paints the walls’?

5. The Australian Yorkshire, Angein Saddleback, British Lop, Danish Landrace, Chester White, Gloustershire Old Spot and Vietnamese Potbelly are breeds of what?

yOur lucky sTars

ARIES: (March 21-April 20)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 1.3.2.5.

Lotto Numbers: 1.12.26.36.30.33.

You might have to be more aggressive than before to get things going your way and let people disagree with you. Even your relationships could come under some stress.

TAURUS: (April 21-May 20)

Lucky Colour: White

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 3.2.6.5.

Lotto Numbers: 2.13.25.45.40.9.

Things that have been worrying you for some time should now be solved, and you can relax for a while. People could ask for your help in something you are good at.

GEMINI: (May 21-June 21)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 4.5.2.1.

Lotto Numbers: 4.12.26.9.22.1.

From The Weekly Advertiser archives: October 11, 2001 –Warracknabeal is again saddling up to host a rodeo and country music muster on October 19 and 20 at the showgrounds. More than 200 cowboys and cowgirls including the current Australian champions will battle with stock from Australia’s leading stock contractors John Gill and Sons for $30,000 in prizemoney. Australia’s leading announcer Russell Green will be another highlight.

10 years ago: October 9, 2013

Completion of a $1.4-million Ararat RSL redevelopment project has signalled a new era in dining, reception and entertainment services in the rural city. The final product, after three years of planning and enthusiastic construction work in the past five months, has provided the Ararat community with a modern and expansive club with facilities that are second to none.

Five years ago: October 10, 2018

Horsham Country Music Festival will disappear from the rural city’s annual major-events calendar after next year. Festival organisers will fold their annual music celebration based at Horsham’s Sawyer Park Soundshell after a 2019 March finale.

One year ago: October 12, 2022

The expansion of a support service in Ararat will offer a safe and nurturing environment for children and parents to maintain contact. Cafs, also known as Child and Family Services Ballarat, launched the extension of its Children’s Contact Services to Ararat last week.

FIVE-DAY forecast

6. Australian actors Graham Kennedy, Bryan Brown, John Hargreaves, John Jarratt, Graeme Blundell, Ian Gilmour and Richard Moir starred in what 1979 Tom Jeffrey film that followed the experiences of a group of soldiers during the Vietnam War?

7. Which one of these Australian parrots do environmental scientists consider extinct? A. Paradise. B. Princess.

8. Argentine-born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, 78, who was briefly a chemical technologist and nightclub bouncer, is better known as what?

9. True or false? There are no deciduous native trees in Australia.

10. What is the only Australian state the pest European red fox has failed to successfully colonise?

7. A. Paradise. 8. Pope Francis. 9. False. 10. Tasmania.

is the hard skin of the insect that emerges from the old skin of the caterpillar. 4. The Angels. It is the first line of the song ‘Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again’. 5. Domestic pigs. 6. The Odd Angry Shot.

3. The pupal stage or stage just before caterpillars turn into butterflies.

Answers: 1. Leslie O’Brien ‘Chuck’ Fleetwood-Smith. Considered ‘a wayward genius’, he was a left-arm wrist-spin bowler and his -dis missal of Wally Hammond to clinch the 1936-37 Ashes series has been compared to Shane Warne’s ball of the century. 2. Bob Hawke. 1987.

Travel could be on the agenda, and your share of the expenses could be paid by sheer luck. The situation could face changes, and your particular job could be different.

CANCER: (June 22-July 22)

Lucky Colour: Fawn

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 2.3.2.1.

Lotto Numbers: 2.13.26.36.39.5.

After a disastrous beginning, your new job should be just what you need. If you are still undecided about your love life, stick with the known and let others pay.

LEO: (July 23-August 22)

Lucky Colour: Orange

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 4.6.2.1.

Lotto Numbers: 1.12.15.26.30.33.

Travel could be restricted to short trips only until you have enough time to go further. Improvement in personal relationships could be attributed to the fact that you are in a better mood.

VIRGO: (August 23-September 23)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 2.3.2.1.

Lotto Numbers: 2.13.26.25.40.44.

You should be able to charm your way to anything you want. Lots of invitations and more people to meet. Some of your newfound friends could introduce you to something different.

LIBRA: (September 24-October 23)

Lucky Colour: Cream

Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 2.3.1.5.

Lotto Numbers: 2.13.26.25.28.7.

Meeting new people could make you aware of things you never thought of before. You could be contemplating a unique style of living and need someone to support you soon.

SCORPIO: (October 24-November 22)

Lucky Colour: Peach

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 2.3.9.5.

Lotto Numbers: 5.6.12.23.36.39.

News from distant places could affect your ideas, and something could change your mind about someone special. It is not a reasonable period to confide in people just now.

SAGITTARIUS: (November 23-December 20)

Lucky Colour: Cream

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 2.3.5.6.

Lotto Numbers: 2.13.26.36.30.45.

People are watching for you, so do your best to achieve your goals. There should be plenty to keep you occupied and also time for enjoyment.

CAPRICORN: (December 21-January 19)

Lucky Colour: Pink

Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 2.3.2.1.

Lotto Numbers: 2.13.20.30.11.15.

Suppose you are planning career changes, now is a good time to enquire about courses etc for the future. But do not rush into anything unplanned, as an accident could happen if you are not careful.

AQUARIUS: (January 20-February 19)

Lucky Colour: Purple

Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 6.2.3.1.

Lotto Numbers: 6.12.23.30.22.29.

You will feel more in charge of the situation at your place, and something that has been irritating you for some time should be easier to bear – some good luck in something.

PISCES: (February 20-March 20)

Lucky Colour: White

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 1.3.2.1.

Lotto Numbers: 1.12.26.36.30.44.

It is a very unexpected period when all kinds of things can happen. If you are looking for an opportunity, now is the time to strike. Significant changes are on the way for you.

If you’re a landlord, homeowner or business owner needing maintenance or looking to renovate then ALK Property Maintenance is for you. Servicing the Wimmera including Warracknabeal, Horsham, Dimboola, Stawell, Halls Gap and Ararat areas, ALK Property Maintenance currently covers a large area outside of Horsham.

ALK Property Maintenance offers a full range of services including painting, tiling, carpentry, plastering, paving, concreting, plumbing, electrical, fencing, cleaning, yard maintenance, rubbish removal and gutter cleaning. No job is too big or small.

Andrew said his business was continuing to grow and was having a lot of success. ALK Property Maintenance has everything you need within the one business.

“All of our workers have a Working With Children Check and we provide reliable guaranteed work,” he said.

TEXT HERE

“With the broad range of our enthusiastic staff we have all home and business renovation skills covered.”

Andrew can also provide clients with recommendations on materials and products available including interior design ideas.

Andrew has expanded from six to fourteen workers including two females in the last few years, and hopes to continue to expand in the future.

The business provides quotes for any job, big or small.

ALK Property Maintenance is open 8am-4:30pm Monday to Friday and weekend work is available by negotiation.

There is an after hours call out available for emergencies.

Phone Andrew on 0407 363 080.

Painting | Tiling | Paving | Plumbing | Carpentry

Death Notices

DELANEY, Allan

MILLS, Patricia

Gladys

Henry

Passed away peacefully at Wimmera Base Hospital, Horsham on Thursday, September 28, 2023.

Aged 86 years.

Dearly loved husband of Kath.

Loved Dad and father-in-law of Lynne and Ray, Tammy and Terry, Marg and Chris, Tim (Jock) and Sarah, Karen (Poss) and Stuart.

Devoted Pa of Shannon, Chris and Liam.

Resting Peacefully

In accordance with Allan’s wishes he was privately interred at the Edenhope Cemetery.

Jo-Anne Callaghan

Wattle Range Funerals

Naracoorte 08 8762 0099

FARNHAM,

Keith Edward

Passed away October 2, 2023

after losing his battle with MND, aged 72.

Dearly loved husband of Dot, beloved father of Janelle, Troy & Joel.

Father-in-law to Matt & Stacey and adored Pa of Jaiden, Mitchell, Teagan, Savannah & Piper.

Resting peacefully now

JARRED, Alison

Shirley

Passed away on October 2, 2023 aged 74 years.

Dearly loved wife of Ian. Loving mother and motherin-law of Jo & Spud; Brad & Tracey.

Adored Grandma to Jessica & Mitchell; Olivia, Chloe, Jordan, Maddy & Jorja.

Forever In Our Hearts

LARDNER, Walter Desmond

VX026716

26-7-22 to 20-9-2023

Of Slaty Creek, passed away peacefully at Hedley Sutton

Aged Care, Camberwell, age 101 years.

Dearly beloved husband of Merne (dec) and brother of Donald (dec). Much loved father and father-in-law of Cheryl & Richard Adams; Desmond & Robyn; Marilyn & Douglas (dec) Hornsby; Stephen & Marguerite; Simon & Karen. Treasured Grandfather of Katherine & David, Nicholas & Katrina, Fiona & Matt, Andrew & Tricia, Jennifer (dec), Rohan & Emily, Annika, Sarah and William. Great Grandfather of Emma, Rosie, Zach, Oliver, Theodore, Landon, Elliot and Carey.

“Back with God”

MILLS, Patricia Gladys

“Trish”

9-1-1944 ~ 8-10-2023

We’ve had so many happy times as a family to treasure always. You may be gone from our sight but will be forever in our hearts.

Passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family.

Loved wife of Allan. Adored mother, grandmother and great grandmother to:

Maree & Paul; Kate & Matt; Sarah & Harry; Emily & Matt.

Tracey & Tony

Sean, Annika & Esmé; Melissa, Alex, Frankie, Ace & Sonny; Vanessa & Josh; Janelle, Kane, Rahli, Maverick & Garcia; Jack.

Megan & Bradley.

Debbie & Rod

Shannon, Dalton, Lacey, Denver, Casen (dec) & baby; Jess, Todd, Vinnie, Vester & Vossie.

A.J & Lisa Ellie.

Phil & Kristy

Jake & Emily; Paddy; Mitch.

Kevin & Mel

Cooper & Archer.

Jeff & Breanne

Zara, Jayda & Hamish.

You now have your wings, so fly high.

Horsham & District

Funerals

Amity Perovic & Dylan Hartwich

5382 1149

“Trish”

Passed away October 8

Much loved sister-in-law of Gwen, Derek & family.

Loved Aunty of Kerry, Darrin & family, Paul Robyn & family.

Forever In Our Hearts R.I.P.

TEPPER (nee Bryan), Margaret Anne

Passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family on October 5, 2023 at the Wimmera Nursing Home, aged 86 years.

Mourned by Mervyn, her husband of 65 and a half years.

Loving mother and motherin-law of Glenn & Linda; Kerri; Jan & Lincoln; and Ross.

Adored Nanna to Sammy and Archie.

Loved sister and sister-inlaw of Rex (dec) & wife Cheryl; and Dot. In God’s Care

MILLS, Patricia Gladys

The memorial service to farewell the late Mrs Trish Mills will be held at St Andrew’s Uniting Church, Horsham, Friday, October 13 commencing at 1pm

Following the service, refreshments will be provided in the Uniting Church Hall. Livestreaming link can be found at www.horsham. unitingchurch.org.au

Amity Perovic & Dylan Hartwich 5382 1149

TEPPER, Margaret Anne

The funeral of Margaret Anne Tepper will leave St John’s Lutheran Church, Murtoa on Thursday, October 12, 2023 after a service commencing at 1.30pm for the Murtoa Cemetery.

Murtoa Funerals

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5385 2833 AFDA Member

SOUTTER, Brian

11-10-2018

Your love beside me 5 years on makes me strong, Brian. I miss you. Jeanette XOXO

20 Merino lambs , GC $25 each ,PIC No 3YKHF059 Ph 0481864397

Beautiful long haired

Chihuahua girls looking for homes, 1 white, 1 cream, m/chip 953010006217932/25, source# MB168010 ready 14/10/23 Ph 0406048840

Black head dorper ewe lambs, born June 2022, pic# 3NGLM058 $250ea Ph 53585079

Budgies, young, asstd colours $10ea Ph 0423182267

Ferrets, 8wks to 18mths $30ea Ph 0418843180 Nhill

JARRED, Alison Shirley Alison Shirley Jarred was farewelled at a private family gathering.

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member

LARDNER

A service of Thanksgiving to celebrate the life of Mr Walter Desmond Lardner will be held on Friday, October 13, 2023, in the Anglican Old Cathedral, St Arnaud commencing at 11am. This will be immediately followed by a committal at the St Arnaud Lawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers Donations to St Arnaud Anglican Church. Envelopes at service.

KELL FUNERALS

EST:1860 NFDA ST ARNAUD 5495 1043

Goats Boer and boer cross from $60 each Ph 0427361940

Funeral Directors

Kelpie Pups , Bob tailed kelpies, born 26/7/23, parents excellent working dogsworking home only, m/chip# 981514100623485/1007303595

Source# EE232038 Ph 0427861437

Labrador Puppies, Purebred, 3 black females and 1 black males

Born 14/7 due for pick up 8/9, vet checked, m/ chipped,vacc and wormed source# MB131530, m/chip # 985141006234027/26985141007 305210/17 $1000 Ph 0429821171

Horsham

One male German Shepherd 3 month puppy , great temperament, toilet trained, straight, source # MB115424, m/chip # 95301000661546 Ph 0421018631

Pigeon fantails, lots of colours, $5 each, plus other breeds, no texts Ph 0408846796

Kildare Border Collies now have a litter of purebred puppies for sale at $1800, we have been breeding border collies for over 50 years and strive to breed quality true to type and temperament in our puppies. Our pups have calm natures and make excellent working dogs or family pets. Three are chocolate and white puppies 2 female and 1 male and the remainder are female black and white puppies with piercing dark eyes and traditional black and white markings. Born 28/05/2023, all have fun loving natures and ready to find their forever home. All puppies have been microchipped, vet checked vac/wmd, m/chip# 991001005403261/2368 source# MB196330, call Brendan Hogan for more information Ph 0439971754 Donald

The Weekly Advertiser welcomes your advertising.

We are required strictly by law to include specific information on some items when publishing your adv your obligations are as follows:

ANIMALS -

*All “for sale” or “to give away” advertisements, for either cats or dogs must include one of the following:

• Individual microchip numbers

• Vet certificate to exclude individual animals from needing microchips

• Domestic animal-business number

PLUS a source number from the Pet Exchange Register

LIVESTOCK -

*Selling, giving away or bartering of all livestock must include a Property Identification Code (PIC number) in the advertisement.

Pure breed black faced Dorper ewe lambs, pic# 3HSDC083 Ph Liz 0419664345

Roosters, ducks and guinea foul wanted Ph 0469740723

Wanted Person to look after 10 yr old greyhound placid female, odd times, ongoing and will pay Ph David- 0427864628

White Suffolk flock rams, flock # 870, born Sept 2022, OB free and guidar vaccinated, priced from $450 PIC # 3HSJU041 Ph 0400792111 located in Drung near Horsham

Young pigs 2mth old, well bred, free ranged, suitable to spit or grow out, PIC# 3H5CG003 from $100ea Ph 0439834521

1995 Roadstar Voyager 17’ pop top single axle caravan, 2 single beds, has full size annex in as new cond, van presents very well $10,000ono Ph Eileen 0437899398

1999 Jayco 16’ pop-top caravan with unused annex, GC $14,500 Ph 0400823134

2005 Traveller Caravan 19’ Hurricane, shower and toilet, full annex $35,000 Ph 0417555823

2008 Avondale, light weight, 14’, either two singles or a double bed,shower toilet combo, $12,000 ono Ph 0403536402

2014 Jayco Starcraft Pop top 14’, d/bed, ac/heating, $22,000 Ph Debra 0458088377

Ezytrail camper, Sterling G, Mark 2, EC $21,999ono Ph John 0427562876

professional staff will ensure your family is provided with the highest level

2009 Chrysler Pt Cruiser GT black, fully option car, RWC and reg supplied, EC, lady owner, 115,000kms, XMS899 $9000ono Ph 0428123694

Falcon tray back AU 1999, V8 5ltr manual 5spd, runs like new, has had regular servicing, hard canopy, tow bar, alloy bull bar, VG interior exterior and mechanicals, 28,000kms, PWV323 $5,500 Ph Alan 0429060349 Jeparit, 70km nth of Horsham

Mercedes Benz 2010 ml 300 sports model, 4WD, diesel, automatic, no rwc, vin# WDC1641202A593713, 213,795km $14,300ono Ph 0429911201

2015 Hyundai FE, SUV, 2.2, 2 way diesel, towbar, full service history, excellent condition, rego 1FFSO,1,70,000 kms, $23,000 drive away price Ph 0418991340

Falcon XR6, seduce red, EC, RWC, new tyres, XSF763 $9900 Ph 0428989234

Motor Vehicles

$10,000 - $20,000

2008 Colorado UTE, reg till Jan 2024, canopy, good condition, serviced regularly, 254,221 kms, WVR283, $16,000 Ph 0448504021 Stawell

Toyota Prado 4L V6 4x4 Petrol, 7 seats, extra’s: dual battery, alloy bull bar, side steps, winch driving lights, electric brakes, UHF radio, long rang tank, Bluetooth stereo, RWC, 26,5000km, XCO814 $16,000 Ph 0428039861

2017 GLS Pajero, white, 7 seater, 1 owner, full service history, tow bar, rear air bags, nudge bar, VGC, tinting, RWC, recently serviced, 93,500kms, 1KK2EU, $41,500 Ph 0439821587

2015 Mazda CX-5 Maxx Sport 4x4, 6spd diesel with tow pack, regular servicing, smoke and pet free car, 126,000kms, rego

1GG3IO $19,500 Ph 0419473725

BT 50 2007 UTE, 3lt turbo diesel, VGC, express pass on vehicle, bull bar, driving lights, ARB Canopy, extra fuel tanks 50lts, roof rack, 6mths rego, 300,000kms, N4372 $14,000 Ph 0407084235

2017 Toyota Hilux SR5, 4X4, manual, one owner, diesel, roof racks, bullbar, towbar, electric brakes, heavy springs, tinted windows, dual batteries, reg til 6/24, 161,000kms, AMF813 $41,000 Ph 0408504867 F250 Ute 2002 XLT Power stroke diesel V8, 284838kms, right hand column auto, tub liner, tie down points, tow bar, bucket seats, elec windows and mirrors, a/c, tyres 90%, rego 28th Aug 23 RUG765

$42,000 Ph 53826103 in business

hours

Holden Colorado LTR , dual cab, 3L turbo diesel, auto trans, 4WD, towbar, side steps, lock up canopy, reg til 10/23, RWC, WRL987 $20,000 Ph 0428504449

Holden WB Panel Van 1983, 6 cylinder petrol/gas, 3spd manual, VGC, extra parts included, FSE369 $35,000ono Ph 0407614706

Hyundai iLoad, 6 s eater, manuaL, diesel, 2,04,000kms, rego YPK951, $15,000 Ph 0497205899

REDUCED 2009 Nissan Navara space cab ute, 4WD, RWC, canopy and awning, elec brakes, 2way radio, 2 box King tool boxes, rhino rack roof bars, Anderson plug, double swag Darche included, 4 new tyres, reg til 18/11/23, 265,000kms, XGM872 $13,000ono Ph 0437164589

Christian Devotion

“Are you religious?” is a question that has always bothered me.

White 2011 Holden Commodore SS VE series II, selling due to upgrade to 4x4, service up to date with book, rego till May, roadworthy supplied, kept very neat and tidy, 177***kms, ZPK676 $35,000 Ph 0409579397

As a Christian born in the early 1970s, who was a teen in the mid to late 1980s, and is now in my early 50s, I never known why my answer is important to the person asking me that. Am I “spiritual but not religious”; and if I am what does that even mean when you remember that I am actually a minister? I get paid to be a Christian in public so you should expect some sort of religiosity; but as a paid pastor and a volunteer chaplain I can’t actually do my job if I’m only interested in private Christianity. If you have asked me the religious question because you need my help or want my care, where’s the space for that amongst flowery concepts and dreamy songs? So I suppose I am both spiritual and religious, I think I need to be both, and I am encouraging my churches to think the same way about themselves.

As religious people we have chosen someone to worship and love with devotion. As spiritual people we have chosen a path shown to us by someone we trust and follow. As Christians we do both of these things because Jesus is both “The Lord” and “The Way”. Jesus is someone we obey because he is mighty and divine, and because his path is straight, wise, sensible, and leads to a full life and a better future.

Damien Tann. St Matthew’s Stawell, and Pomonal Community Uniting Church

Expressions of Interest

MEMBERSHIP OF EDENHOPE RACECOURSE AND RECREATION RESERVE COMMITTEE OF MANAGEMENT INCORPORATED

Nominations are invited from interested and skilled members of the community wishing to be considered for membership to the Edenhope Racecourse and Recreation Reserve Committee of Management Incorporated. This volunteer committee is responsible for the day-to-day management, care and development of the reserves under their control. The term of appointment is three years to 18 July 2026

Specific interest or skills in one of the following areas would be highly regarded: • Community connection and interest in seeking a position on the CoM

• Governance

• Financial management

• Working on other committees/working in teams

• Strategic planning

All registrations of interest for the voluntary role will be considered. Further information and nomination forms are available from Emily Farrugia on 0407 146 202 or email publicland.grampians@delwp.vic.gov.au

Expressions of Interest are to be on the formal nomination form and addressed to: Land and Built Environment Team, Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action – 110 Natimuk Road, Horsham, Vic, 3400 or emailed to: publicland.grampians@delwp.vic.gov.au

Women, First Nations People, people with disabilities, young people and people from culturally diverse backgrounds are actively encouraged to apply to ensure that the committee’s membership reflects the composition of the community it serves.

Expressions of Interest close 13 October 2023 www.deeca.vic.gov.au

Customer Service Centre 136 186

CASH FOR GOLD

STAWELL Agricultural SHOW 2023

Saturday, October 28

Entries for all hall classes will be taken at the library on Friday, October 20 10am - 5pm

Saturday, October 21 10am-noon

POSITION

Youth Justice Worker

DO YOU HAVE

Knowledge of issues impacting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth Flexibility and good organisational skills. Excellent time management and case planning.

Youth Justice knowledge desirable. A strong team ethic.

WE OFFER

A Council Meeting will be

Attractive Remuneration Salary

Get

Closing Date: 5:00pm 27 October 2023

Annual General Meeting

Goolum Goolum Aboriginal Co-operative Friday, 17 November 2023

11:00 am, Aunty Irene Room, 43 Hamilton Street, Horsham

All GGAC Community Members are welcome RSVP to Christine by Wednesday 8 November 2023 via phone: 5381 6333 or Email: christine.schirmer@goolumgoolum.org.au

EEYS promotes a commitment to child safety, wellbeing, participation, empowerment and cultural safety and awareness, including those with a disability, aboriginal children and/or communities and children from cultural and/or linguistically diverse backgrounds.

KINDERGARTEN

Nhill Lutheran School

Classroom Teacher Upper Primary

Nhill Lutheran School is seeking a passionate and innovative teacher. The successful applicant should be willing to support the Christian ethos of the school.

For a job description please email principal@nls.vic.edu.au with the subject line of ‘Classroom Teacher Position’ or view teachers.on.net

Applications can be sent to principal@nls.vic.edu.au or 2 Mackay St, Nhill 3418

Applications close: Friday, October 20, 2023

Position commences January 23, 2024

Opportunity This Way

Team Leader Works - East Full Time, Permanent

We are seeking a permanent full time Team Leader Works to coordinate the day to day work of the outdoor staff, equipment and contractors. Covering the east side of the shire including the towns of Dimboola, Jeparit and Rainbow, this role will ideally suit someone experienced in the supervision of staff in a civil construction environment. We offer excellent work/life balance with a 9-day fortnight, annual leave, long service leave and above-award pay rates, as well as training opportunities to continue to enhance your career!

Positions available

Labourer x 2 – Full-time

Previous experience with plant and machinery, power tools or trade background preferred.

For more information, call the Laser Plumbing and Electrical office or email HRWHS.horsham@laserelectrical.com.au

Laser Plumbing & Electrical Horsham 89 Plumpton Road, Horsham Phone: 03 5382 1375 horsham@laserelectrical.com.au

Details of how to apply can be found on our website at www.hindmarsh.vic.gov.au/work-in-council. Applications close Friday 20 October 2023 at 12noon and must address the key selection criteria as contained in the position description and application form. For more information or to have a confidential discussion, please phone Daniel Griffiths, Manager Works and Operations on 03 5391 4444.

Council is an equal opportunity workplace that offers a diverse and supportive work environment.

Opportunity This Way

1 x Part Time (min 20 hours per fortnight)

1 x Casual (hours will vary and may include weekends and public holidays)

The Riverside Holiday Park in Dimboola is a booming caravan park situated in a picturesque location, nestled under beautiful river gums alongside the Wimmera River. We are seeking two self-motivated people to clean the accommodation facilities, amenities blocks and undertake laundry duties at the park.

These positions would suit someone looking to take on work during school hours with some weekends. We are seeking someone who is organised, has the ability to work independently to a high standard, and who enjoys contributing to a team and the community through their work.

Council is an equal opportunity workplace that offers a diverse and supportive work environment.

Please contact Mick Henderson, Manager Assets and Facilities, on 03 5391 4444 for enquiries. Applications close Friday 13 October 2023 at 12 noon and must address the key selection criteria as contained in the position description and application form.

Position descriptions and details of how to apply are available at

GRAIN MERCHANT

JK Milling is a local grain export company. With strong ties to the local and international markets. JK Milling has a strong brand and reputation in the grain industry. We specialize in the processing and exporting of pulses nationally and internationally.

JK Milling has a position vacant for a Grain Merchant. We are looking for a person who has the ability to communicate well with grain growers and end users. Previous experience in sales or within the grain and transport industry would be an advantage. The successful applicant must also have the ability to manage contracts and logistics and be proficient in Microsoft programs. Some data processing is involved.

Please reply with your resume to the: Human Resources Manager, JK Milling P/L, PO Box 1239, Horsham 3402 Email: anthony@jkmilling.com.au

Mallee Building, Federation University

289 Baillie Street, Horsham Vic 3400

Email: eo@llen.com.au

EO Mobile: 0418 312 556

Our Mission

‘To create partnerships between industry, education and the community that develop positive futures for young people’

The following part-time opportunities are available or combine roles to create a fulltime position For full details visit www.llen.com.au/employment.

VET Cluster Coordinator (Vocational Education & Training Delivered to Secondary Schools)

Project Officer: School to Work (Placements, Events & Work Ready)

Project Support Officer: Administration & Communications

Scan for further information

Employment Opportunities

**Attractive salary packaging in addition to salary**

We are seeking committed and passionate people who are ready for exciting and rewarding careers in our growing community health organisation

Dedicated Intake Worker

30.4 hours per week

$31.70 to $35.44 per hour

Contact: Kristy Price

Closing: 12pm Monday 30 October 2023

To download a position description and key selection criteria form visit our website: gch.org.au

269 or emailing horsham.distribution@gmail.com

District Mechanical Officer

• Location | Horsham Workshop

• Full Time | Fixed Term (ends 30 June 2024)

• DMO Grade 1 | $70,169 pa (plus 11% super)

• Work a 9 day fortnight

Are you a Qualified Motor Mechanic keen to secure a position where you can apply your expertise in preventative maintenance, corrective maintenance and approved modifications in a clean environment to well-maintained CFA vehicles?

This full-time role will see you work in our Horsham workshop from the hours of 7:30am to 4:30pm Monday to Thursday and 7:00am to 4:00pm Friday. All tools and equipment are supplied.

This is a great opportunity to embark on a rewarding journey with CFA, where you can explore the possibilities of a career path that awaits you! For further information about this position, including a Position Description, key requirements and details on how to apply, please visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au and select ‘Volunteer & Careers’ followed by ‘Jobs at CFA’.

Closing date: 23 October 2023 (11:59 pm) CFA is committed to creating and maintaining a diverse, inclusive, and safe volunteer and work environment.

Fire Extinguisher Inspections and Servicing

Contract Number: C01273

Tenders are invited for fire extinguisher inspections and servicing at nominated facilities and locations across GWMWater’s operational areas.

These services are to be carried out on a six (6) monthly basis for a period of three (3) years as per the conditions outlined in Contract No. C01273.

The Contract scope of works includes inspection and servicing of fire extinguishers to ensure these items are compliant with the relevant regulatory standards.

Each site will be visited on a six (6) monthly basis as indicated by the relevant regulatory standards.

More information about this tender is available on our website at gwmwater.org.au/tenders. Enquiries are to be directed to Miles Norton, Manager Planning and Scheduling during business hours on 1300 659 961.

Tender closes: 2 pm, Wednesday 25 October 2023

GWMWater reserves the right to accept offers in part. The lowest or any offer not necessarily accepted.

Mark Williams Managing Director

GWMWater is an innovative water corporation providing, managing, operating and protecting water supply and sewerage systems within the Grampians, Wimmera and Mallee regions of Victoria.

be someone making a difference for people in your community

Nhill’s Gurry continues run

Nhill’s

Andrea Gurry continued her golden run of form training a further three winners for the week, totaling seven winners in the past nine days across Horsham and Warrnambool venues.

Garry George, of Beulah, returned from his Gold Coast holiday in style, training a winning double on Saturday night at Horsham.

Gurry’s run started on October 2 at Warrnambool, training a winning double including a quinella – the first with Idyllic Point and Michigan Mia finishing first and second.

Michigan Mia led up, but Idyllic Point was too strong for her kennel mate and went over the top in the run to the line, winning comfortably in 22:33sec.

Gurry’s second winner, Miss Verdansky, was breathtaking, exploding to an early lead and running away a six-length winner and breaking the magical 22 second barrier running a flying 21:96sec.

Gurry returned to Warrnambool on October 5, with Xylus Bale returning to the track from injury. He did not disappoint, positioning second early then running over the top of the early leader to win in a solid 22:72sec.

with Peter Carter

Horsham raced in the unfamiliar Saturday night timeslot and it was Greg Turnbull and Tracey Salter, of Crowlands, who struck in the first with the promising Lochinvar Viduka finding the front early then powering away to win in 23:38sec.

George then doubled up with winners in the second and last race on the program.

He’s Pure Gold came out running and gave nothing else a chance, leading from start to finish in 23:46sec, and it was an instant replay when Zapatron jumped straight to the front and went home a two-and-a-halflength winner in 23:37sec.

Team Fullerton of Red Cliffs also entered the winners’ circle in Saturday’s Horsham card when See Saw Lass was trapped midfield early and in a lot of trouble, but rallied hard to push through hit the lead turning for home and coming away a comfortable winner in 23:41sec.

Support for Arapiles ride, charities

More than 120 riders have journeyed through the picturesque Wimmera landscape for the 2023 Arapiles Cycling Event.

Riders, the majority of whom travelled from Melbourne, had a choice between riding 100 kilometres, 50 kilometres along largely quiet, back roads, or 20 kilometres along the Natimuk-Arapiles Bike Trail.

The event raised about $2000 for Wimmera Against Cancer in Kids, WACK, and Beyond Blue.

Event manager Mark Radford said rest stops were provided for riders along the way, with food, drinks and shade.

The quickest rider to complete the 100km course was Horsham man Dennis Kelly, in less than three hours.

“It was a great day, with beautiful weather and scenery, supported by a dedicated team of local volunteers and businesses,” Mr Radford said.

“It was very encouraging to see the way the riders, men and women, many of them aged over 50, had prepared and trained up to the event and rode on the day.

“Most stayed two nights in the Wimmera, which had knock-on benefits for local tourism and business.”

Mr Radford said the event team

managed three incidents – including heat exhaustion and a flat tyre.

“At the Mount Arapiles rest stop we almost ran out of fruit cake and lolly snakes,” he said.

“Supplies of snakes were purchased and replacement cake – maybe not quite as healthy as fruit cake – was commandeered from the Natimuk Café and couriered to the rest stops.”

Mr Radford said the committee acknowledged the support of Horsham Rural City Council, Victoria Police, VicRoads, Parks Victoria, St John Ambulance and Horsham Cycling Club.

OFF THEY GO: Riders participating in the 2023 Arapiles Cycling Event on their journey along Natimuk’s Main Street.

Picture: CHRISTINE O’CONNELL

Weekdays from 6am to 9am

Memorable event for Manning

BY TONY LOGAN

Champion horsewoman Kerryn

Manning travelled to Melton on Saturday, hopeful her threeyear-old fillies Ideal Assassin and Surfingmakescents would finish top-six in their heats of the Victoria Oaks and earn a place in the following week’s $150,000 final.

Ideal Assassin ran well from barrier 13 in the first heat, missing out on qualifying by 0.5 metres in seventh place, while Surfingmakescents, unfortunately, made it a memorable night.

When the starter flicked the green light to start the second heat of the Oaks, Little Miss Lily from gate three went into a wild gallop. Manning, following in gate 10, reined her horse left to avoid trouble and things went pear-shaped, to say the least.

In a flash, Surfingmakescents was down on the track, Manning was airborne and knew she was in for a hard landing.

“I knew that no-one was behind me, so that was good, but thought, I hope I don’t hurt my back again,” she told RSN 927’s Cracking The Codes on Monday.

“My shoulder and wrist took most of the impact, luckily my head missed out this time. When I looked up, I saw her on her back, tangled in gear and was quickly on my feet and over

there.” After horse and driver were attended to by the vets and paramedics on-course, the abandoned race was rerun half an hour later, with Manning sitting quietly in the front of the ambulance and Surfingmakescents back in the stalls with Grant Campbell.

It would have been well into the early morning hours when the team made it back home, unloaded and was finally able to get some sleep.

“They’re both a little walking wounded, but it could have been much worse,” Campbell said on Sunday morning.

X-rays taken later that day revealed Manning had sustained a wrist fracture and would be out of action for at least four weeks.

“Surfingmakescents is pretty good, considering. She has a gouge on one knee, which will take time to heal,” Campbell said.

Tormey in control

Popular Huntly owners Barry, trainer, and Ann Quigley took out a restricted stakes contest at Maryborough last week over 1690-metres with their four-year-old mare As She Says.

Driver Ellen Tormey took the former Queenslander straight to the lead from gate four and controlled the tempo with even splits through the journey.

The combo proved too strong for Silver Domino, Ryan Duffy. Hanover Jack, Jason Ainsworth, ran on late from mid-field for third, 1.8 metres

Dona Amalia began smoothly from gate three and Laugher let her stride forward to find the spot outside leader Tara Tuff, Michael Bellman, after they had travelled 500 metres.

The daughter of Bacardi Lindy USA trotted confidently and took the lead with 300 metres to travel.

Laugher sat confidently up the home stretch as Dona Amalia fended off favourite Designs, James Herbertson, to score by two metres in a rate of 2:01.6.

Significant stats

Curyo

Decron Horse

Play

Doutzen

back. As She Says was having her sixth start for Quigley and the confidence-boosting victory might see her go on to win a few more.

Win for Gadsden

Fellow Charlton trainer Michael Gadsden also enjoyed success at Maryborough when his nine-year-old mare Markleigh Caz took out a $6000 NR up to 50 event over 2190-metres. Markleigh Caz began smartly from gate three to trail the early leader, but a couple of mid-race moves saw

her awkwardly placed three back the pegs at the bell. Driver Alex Ashwood found clear running at the 400m mark and set out on a chase after the tearaway leader Maxy Wants To Play, Jason Herbertson.

Racing at Kilmore

Kilmore staged a nine race card on Thursday and four-year-old mare Dona Amalia captured the $7000 Maiden Trot over 1690m for Charlton owner-trainer John Tormey with Jack Laugher in the sulky.

As we head towards the business end of the 2023 season, popular drivers James Herbertson and Ellen Tormey have already clocked up significant stats, with 12 weeks remaining.

On Friday night at Melton, Herbertson posted his 200th for the year to sit third on the national premiership table behind Nathan Dawson, Queensland, with 318 wins and Gary Hall Jnr, Western Australia, on 216.

Tormey passed the century mark a couple of weeks ago and is in 19th spot on the national list with 107 wins. She headed to her old home town Charlton on Monday with six drives booked and a chance to post her 1000th career victory.

HRV announced last week Herbertson and Tormey would represent the state in the 2023 Australian Driver’s Championship in Launceston, Tasmania on Saturday, October 21.

HOME-TRACK VICTORY: The Connelly family’s three-year-old gelding

Gentleman posted a home-track victory in the $7000

Care Pace at Horsham Racing Centre. The gelded son of Shadow

USA was bred by Robbie from his Safely Kept USA broodmare

and is descended from the family of a Gary Rowan filly, Kiwi Kohine, bred by Robbie’s late father, John, in 1978. Montanna and Robbie Connelly, left, are pictured with Curyo Gentleman, driver Darby McGuigan and Erin, Jonah and Mackenzie Connelly. Curyo Gentleman will line up in race eight at Maryborough tomorrow.

COMPETE: Clockwise from above: Yasassri Sumanapala plays for Central Park in the weekend’s Central Wimmera Tennis Association B Special competition; Holy Trinity Lutheran College’s Charlie Hopper plays in a Wimmera schools cricket tournament at Dudley Cornell Park in Horsham; Jennifer Noonan takes her shot during the Nell Smithett golf tournament at Horsham Golf Club yesterday; Jake Maher plays for Horsham Lawn’s B Special team; and Jack Combe of Horsham College takes a shot during the cricket tournament.

FOCUS: Clockwise from left: June Gross plays in the Nell Smithett golf tournament at Horsham Golf Club on Tuesday; Henry Pohlner at tennis practice at Haven; Melika Toy plays golf; Alan Kuriakose of St Brigid’s College plays in a Wimmera schools cricket tournament at Dudley Cornell Park in Horsham; and Shirley Sproule.

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Families embrace format

Central

Wimmera Tennis Association’s first round of Friday night junior match play was a success.

Match play is a beginner competition for players to learn the basics of game play and scoring.

It is played on modified courts with low-compression balls.

Association president Jeremy Quast said it was an amazing first round for the young players.

“All the parents I have spoken to said it was a great atmosphere and all the children loved it,” he said. “The first round was at Horsham Lawn, on Friday it will be at Haven and then Central Park.

“We need 12 courts for both sections so we will rotate through those venues.”

Quast said match play was just the beginning of playing tennis in the Wimmera.

“We have 64 junior teams this season – from match play up to open,” he said.

“I can see Friday nights really taking off for match play as it’s a chance to start a tennis career on a good note. There’s many positives for us to have match play on a Friday night.”

Quast said Saturday’s junior and senior games were played in good weather.

“Everyone was happy and excited to get back into playing,” he said.

“We have 25 senior teams this season and although we have four teams in pennant after Kalkee pulled out, the senior competition went well in round one.”

Quast thanked the executive

committee for all its hard work preparing for the season. Round two will hit off this weekend with another day of great tennis expected.

COMPOSED: Horsham Lawn’s Natasha Gillespie in B Special during round one against Central Park. Gillespie won one doubles set for the day in a tiebreak.

Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

ACE: Central Park’s Emily Clough won three of her four B Special doubles sets on Saturday during her team’s win against Horsham Lawn.

WHACK: Blake McQueen plays a practice shot at Haven as Henry Pohlner, Jacob Dossett, Mitchell Bye and Riley Robson take notes. Picture PAUL CARRACHER

Hornets to open season

BY SEAN O’CONNELL

The Country Basketball League season is underway after its opening weekend, with this Saturday and Sunday set to see the last four teams in the south-west conference get their own campaigns started.

Ararat Redbacks got off to a solid start to its season in the men’s competition, scoring a nine-point victory at home against Warrnambool Seahawks on Saturday.

This weekend, they travel to play Portland Coasters and Mt Gambier Lakers in successive days.

After a bye in the first round, Horsham Hornets men will take on Colac Kookas on Saturday night at Horsham Basketball Stadium, from 8pm. They face Terang Tornadoes in a follow-up game the next day from noon.

The Hornets women’s team also face the Kookas on Saturday at home, starting at 5.30pm.

The Redbacks started strongly on Saturday night against the Seahawks.

The home side took a 14-point lead into the half-time break, and it looked as if the first match of the season was going to end in a blowout.

A third quarter fight-back from the Seahawks was not enough to get past Ararat.

Fletcher Burger led the scoring for the Redbacks, recording 24 points, with Jezza and DJ Woods also piling on the baskets to record 15 and 14 points, respectively.

Hornets women’s captain Liv Jones said the team was looking to make-up for missing out on last year’s finals series and had been training for the past three weeks.

“Our ultimate goal would be to make it back to finals,” she said.

“We had a bit of a reflection at the end of last season and thought it was not the best output.

“I think coming in this year we have the personnel to do that – we’ll be aiming to just get in there and then anything can happen come finals time.”

Jones said there would be changes to the line-up this season, with new and familiar faces coming into the team.

“We have the return of the other Iredell twin, in Maddi, who all the locals know around here,” she said.

“She’s a great asset, very athletic and she’ll be playing a lot of big minutes.

“We’re also really fortunate to have a point guard from Melbourne, Tamara Ludekens. She’s here for work and has a lot of experience in the past playing for Knox.”

Jones said there would be an element of the unknown for both teams leading into the first match against Colac Kookas, with under-18 players Maddie Bethune and Izabella McIntyre to feature for the home team.

“Colac is new into the competition. They didn’t field a women’s team last year, so I think both sides will just be trying to work out match-ups,” she said.

Jones said fitness would be a strength of

the Hornets team, heading into the new CBL season.

“For us, it’s now just about getting the ball in our hands and trying to put up as many shots as we can,” she said.

“Whereas other teams play year-round, we have our break in winter for football and netball. Our fitness will be well and truly there, now it will just be about finishing around the rim.”

Men’s captain Mitch Martin said a younger Hornets team would be lining up in the new season, with numbers at training strong ahead of the opening weekend of games.

“We play Colac and then Terang. They are two very good teams and we’ve had a lot of older guys leave our team, so we’re going to be a lot younger, but it’s going to be good and I can’t wait to get into it,” he said.

Martin said the team’s aim would not change much, but it was expected the younger players would be given time to progress.

“The main goal every year is obviously to win the ultimate, but we’ve got a lot of young guys who are going to learn and develop. They are going to be the face of the Hornets in the next couple of years,” he said.

“We have a lot of younger guys who at training were pretty raw at the start, but have been training for a little while now and they’re starting to come out of their shells. So, in five or six weeks’ time, you never know where they are going to be.”

SOLID START: Ararat Redbacks opened their Country Basketball League season at home with a nine-point win against Warrnambool Seahawks on Saturday. Top left, Redback Fletcher Burger is surrounded by Warrnambool opponents; top, Blake Thomas, Ararat; and above, Seahawk Ashley Keen defends Jezza Woods. Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

My Back Just Went! I was only putting my socks on! Why??

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You may start to unconsciously move differently compensating for the problem.This can create increased problems and it doesn’t show up as pain until the body can’t adapt any further (ie when you’re putting your socks on, or just leaning over to do something in the garden).

Chiropractic helps your body move and returns the body to better alignment. We’re here to help you.

READY: Horsham Hornets men’s and women’s teams, led by captains Liv Jones and Mitch Martin, pictured, start their south-west conference CBL seasons against Colac Kookas on Saturday.

New competition to begin

BY SEAN O’CONNELL

Horsham Cricket Association’s 2023-24 A Grade competition starts this weekend, with a series of one-day games on Saturday.

The top-grade’s competition has increased to eight teams for the new season, seeing new and established teams compete for A Grade premiership honours.

The regular season lasts for 12 rounds before several finals fixtures.

Horsham Cricket Association president Travis Hair said he was looking forward to the season getting underway after some changes in the off-season.

He said he expected West Wimmera and Bullants, who traded wins in the one-day and two-day finals last season, to show strength again.

“I’ve probably got my money on West Wimmera to lead the competition again, but both clubs look good again this year,” he said.

Mr Hair said the four clubs joining the A Grade competition this season, in Laharum, Horsham Saints, Lubeck-Murtoa and BlackheathDimboola were all strong additions to the division.

“I think the four clubs who have joined this season are going to be very competitive against each other as well as Homers and Horsham

Tigers,” he said. “It’s actually going to make the competition more even.”

Mr Hair said player movements and last year’s form would make for an interesting season.

“I think the Bullants have lost one player but they’ve picked up Jamie Byrne from Rupanyup-Minyip, which has gone down to B Grade this season,” he said.

“I know that Gary Davidson has taken on the captaincy at Horsham Saints.

“With his leadership and a young

Education Support Traineeship & Business Traineeship

Hopetoun Closing date: ASAP

3 positions available at a local school.

Requirements:

• Strong communication skills

• Patient and compassionate

• Able to accept direction and supervision

• Able to work with computers and its technology

• Willing to obtain a Police Check and/or WWCC prior to commencement

For more information contact Kate Clark on 0428 971 821.

Locksmith Bicycle Repair or Security Equipment Apprenticeships

Ararat Closing date: October 24, 2023

Requirements:

• Great communication skills

• Work well within a team and individually

• Aptitude to adapt and show initiative in all areas

• Attention to detail

• Willingness to work and study in one of offered qualifications

For more information contact Daryl Eastwell on 0407 364 654.

Trio host Pies coach

3WM radio show, ‘The Shirtfront’, has secured a major coup in the form of an AFL premiership-winning special guest when the show returns this weekend.

Collingwood coach Craig McRae, fresh from the Pies’ premiership win against Brisbane Lions, will join hosts Grant Kuchel, Brian ‘Cobba’ Cassidy and Daryl Eastwell when their popular radio show returns for its summer season.

It is the first summertime instalment of ‘The Shirtfront’ after a short break, following a successful winter Shirtfront and ‘Local Football Live’ season.

Considered one of the best coaches in the AFL, McRae took the Pies to a preliminary final in his first year at the helm, in 2022.

McRae led the team to their first premiership since 2010 about a fortnight ago.

group, I expect them to do quite well.

“Blackheath-Dimboola were probably the form team in B Grade last season and only missed out on finals because of a couple of washouts.

“Laharum won B Grade last year and have lots of up-and-coming juniors, as well as some experienced players.”

In the first round of the A Grade competition on Saturday, Laharum take on Horsham Tigers at Cameron Oval, Laharum, while the Bullants, who contested last season’s grand

Business Traineeship

Warracknabeal

Closing date: October 10, 2023

Requirements:

final, host Homers at Noradjuha Recreation Reserve. Lubeck-Murtoa host Blackheath-Dimboola at Murtoa Recreation Reserve.

West Wimmera has its first test after last season’s grand final success when the team takes on Horsham Saints at Davis Park, Nhill.

The B grade and C grade competitions also begin on Saturday.

Junior grades commence the following week with under-16s and under-12s playing on Friday nights and under-14s on Saturday.

He will share stories of his playing career, which included three premierships with the Brisbane Lions.

The Shirtfront’s weekly two-hour summer series will include coverage of local cricket, tennis, lawn bowls, racing, golf and basketball along with antics and anecdotes from the three hosts. It will also include the ever-popular ‘Summer Stars’, which follows the ‘Local Legends’ series throughout the winter months.

People can tune into the show from 8am on Saturday.

Casual Municipal Employee

Kaniva

Closing date: ASAP

Requirements:

• Competency in MS Office, sound computer skills

• Excellent communication and able to work in a team

• Willingness to commit to work and study

• Evidence of COVID 19 certificates required

For more information contact Kate Clark on 0428 971 821.

Spare Parts Interpreter

Donald

Closing date: ASAP

Requirements:

• Aptitude for mechanics and electronics

• Intermediate computer skills

• Strong attention to detail

• Great communication and customer service skills

• Basic Automotive knowledge (highly regarded)

• Current driver’s licence and reliable transport (desirable)

For more information contact Kate Clark on 0428 971 821.

• Medium Rigid Truck Licence (desirable)

• Construction Induction White Card

• Plant Operations Tickets (desirable)

• Demonstrated experience in a civil construction position

To learn more about this exciting opportunity, contact Nathan Keel on 0408 109 324.

Roller Operator

Horsham

Closing date: ASAP

Requirements:

• HC truck licence (desirable)

• Construction Induction White Card

• Plant Operator Licence

• Current Police Check

• Demonstrated experience operating heavy equipment

To learn more about this exciting opportunity, contact Nathan Keel on 0408 109 324.

PREMIERSHIP DEFENCE: West Wimmera will be out to defend its Horsham Cricket Association A Grade premiership when the 2023-24 competiton gets underway this weekend.

Volleyball on rise

BY DAVID BERRY

The sleeping giant has awakened and it is not Craig McRae’s Collingwood Magpies – it is the sport of volleyball in Victoria and the statistics do not lie.

At the annual affiliate’s conference, Volleyball Victoria cheif executive Cori Wilder detailed the massive gains the sport has made in recent years and what we have been seeing, especially postpandemic is actually happening.

Volleyball Victoria had 4500 registered members in 2016. In 2023, that figure has more than doubled to 10,060 in an unprecedented move for the sport.

“We’ve always seen people playing the game, but now that unstructured play is turning into serious interest right across the state,” Wilder said.

Volleyball is a sport played worldwide and a lot of nationalities see it as their number-one sport. Those nationalities are filtering into Victoria and bringing that love of the game with them.

“Right throughout the metro area in particular, we are seeing pockets of volleyball being played and those clubs are seeing the benefits of becoming members of Volleyball Victoria,” Wilder said.

“State League is a major benefit as there is massive talent right across the state. We only have to look at this year’s men’s Premier League champions as an example, with the team that represented Heidelberg actually starting their volleyball out east in the Pakenham area, before being enticed to come into state league.”

The state league competition this year saw 214 teams participate across seven divisions of premier, reserves and juniors, and this was a direct reflection of the growth in the sport throughout the metro area in recent years.

“Games were played at multiple venues as the State Volleyball Centre at Dandenong could not cope with such a volume, resulting in a fixturing nightmare for the office,” Wilder said.

The plan going forward for the competition is to decentralise and take games to venues in the

west, central and eastern metro areas and make the premier league the aspiration for all clubs that participate.

The explosion in junior participation has been backed up by figures provided by School Sport Victoria, which saw volleyball move up from the ninth-ranked sport for students to participate in to fourth, behind the big three in basketball, Australian football and netball.

“The more opportunities we can provide for schools, the better chance we have of turning those students interested in the game into actual participants in our clubs, that provide alternative competitions outside of school,” Wilder said.

“From there we hope they then progress into our various state league competitions.”

The regional areas have not been forgotten in the overall strategic direction of the sport, with the prospect of the establishment of regional leagues.

“With Volleyball Victoria taking over the organisation of country championships, more time can be devoted to making that event the showcase for regional associations that it always has been, but with potential for growth,” Wilder said.

“The same could be said for the junior event as well, as everything we do for the sport is relative and links in nicely with the overall plan to continue growing the sport across the state.”

All this development is exciting but comes with its challenges and what the sport is experiencing at present is the lack of facilities.

“As we’ve seen with state league, the need for multiple venues to host the competition was a huge challenge, but one we were able to meet,” Wilder said.

“We’ve seen some great developments in recent years that have been positive for the sport, right across the state, and Volleyball Victoria will continue to work with local government, clubs and associations to ensure volleyball gets a look in at new facilities going forward.”

There are certainly exciting times ahead for the sport.

DRIVE: Horsham Golf Club is honouring a former stalwart this week with the annual women’s Nell Smithett Memorial Trophy events. The Nell Smithett four-ball stableford aggregate teed off yesterday for members, including Noela Hair, pictured. A singles stableford and blue wren teams event is scheduled for tomorrow while the Nell Smithett Memorial Trophy Stableford event for teams of four is scheduled on Friday. The annual Nell Smithett events are named and played in honour of Nell Smithett — a former Horsham Golf Club member, captain and club champion who died in 1969, aged 61. More pictures, page 42-43.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER