The Weekly Advertiser – Wednesday, September 13, 2023

PROUD SUPPORTERS: Sophie Paterson, Maggie Heinrich and Montana Shrive cheer on Harrow-Balmoral at the 2023 Horsham District Football Netball League grand final on Saturday. The Southern Roos went on to claim the senior football premiership, while Edenhope-Apsley was A Grade netball premier. Reports and pictures, pages 46-49.

BY ABBY WALTER

The Wimmera is situated on a significant band of mineral sands and as exploration increases to assess the viability of the resource, a Wimmera leader says there must be balance between community benefit and building the industry.

Exploration companies Oro Plata and ACDC Metals are working together to begin exploration near Gymbowen and Harrow.

It comes as the public hearing for WIM Resource’s proposed Avonbank Mineral Sands Project, near Horsham, closed last month.

If the Avonbank project gains required approvals, construction could begin from late 2024.

Astron’s Donald Mineral Sands

project, near Minyip, is also waiting for approval, expected by year’s end, based on a definitive feasibility study released in May.

Wimmera Southern Mallee Development chief executive Chris Sounness said mining projects in the region continued to advance.

“If ACDC Metals finds the right product in terms of quality and quantity, it reinforces the resources we have in the region,” he said.

“That is great because as the industry grows, so does our knowledge, excellence and capacity in that space.”

Mr Sounness said there were, however, challenges with any change in the region.

“Transitioning from a traditional agriculture landscape to diversifying land use can be challenging,” he said.

“Things will change and we need

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to ensure the community is better off for those changes and individuals are fairly compensated.

“There are great examples across the country of communities and individuals being more resilient and stronger because of change – but change is always hard.”

The State Government accepted two Oro Plata exploration license applications for the Wimmera in July.

Oro Plata director Michael Hudson said mineral exploration was different to mining.

“Exploration is the science of finding where to look and has low impact over large areas, whereas mining is an engineering process to extract what may be found and is high impact in small areas,” he said.

“Our current work is all exploration, which initially means looking

vote count – pages 52-57

at work previously done, understanding it and putting it into modern-day thinking and computing software to see what opportunities may exist or if nothing more is required.”

Mr Hudson said a license did not grant exploration companies rights to enter private properties.

“If we thought there were opportunities to continue to explore, once we had looked at past work, we would test on roadside verges first, because that is Crown land and you can cover large areas without focusing too quickly,” he said.

“But if there are areas between road verges, then we would start to negotiate land access individually with landholders to see what we could do.”

Continued page 9

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

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Lister House at capacity

BY JESSICA GRIMBLE Horsham’s Lister House Medical Clinic

is a national success story.

The clinic is at capacity, with four new doctors taking its cohort to 15 – the largest number of doctors in the clinic’s history — among a workforce of 40 people that also includes 12 nurses.

Amid long-running, widespread challenges of attracting and retaining doctors in rural and regional areas, the clinic’s chief executive Amanda Wilson said the reopening of international borders following COVID-19 restrictions, and the clinic’s ability to supervise training GPs, had attracted an ‘amazing’ group of professionals to the Wimmera. She said the doctors had practised in hospitals for several years, but becoming a GP was like any speciality, which required specific training and support – and which could take anywhere from two to five years to complete.

“The biggest tipping point was the borders opening up. We have had a massive influx from people overseas inquiring about what jobs they could have, and where,” Mrs Wilson said.

“It takes the pressure off everyone else.

“We’ve always had the same amount of people wanting to get an appointment; we just didn’t have the doctors to see them.

“Now, you can get an appointment this week; you can even get an appointment today.

“You might not get your favourite doctor, but people can get seen.

“Doctors are also rotating through the walk-in and wait clinic next door, formerly the respiratory clinic, and this has taken the pressure off Lister House and also the emergency department, seeing 50 people a day.”

Mrs Wilson said changes to consulting times, such as shorter open times on week days and closing on Sundays, was enabling doctors and clinic staff to gain a greater balance.

“It’s our priority to make their experience as positive as we can,” she said.

“Everyone looks after each other, we socialise and we have a really good working relationship.

“We try not to overload the doctors.

‘Lived experience’ key to provision

The lived experiences of women and gender diverse people in seeking sexual and reproductive healthcare will help a women’s health leader advocate for local service provision.

Women’s Health Grampians is calling for people to share their stories to better understand the impacts of limited, or no options to access sexual and reproductive healthcare close to where the person lives.

Sexual health advisor Shannon Hill said the anonymous online survey was particularly seeking people’s experiences accessing long-acting contraception and early medical abortion.

Women’s Health Victoria data shows that while demand for early medical abortion is consistent across Victoria, local service provision is less than patient demand in all 11 local government areas of the Grampians region – and six shires including Ararat, West Wimmera, Hindmarsh and Yarriambiack have no provision at all.

Ararat has the highest patient demand for the service in the region.

The Grampians region has the lowest rate of pharmacy-dispensed early medical abortion medication in Victoria.

In terms of long-acting contraception, such as an intrauterine device, IUD, demand is higher than service provision in nine Grampians local government areas; West Wimmera, Hindmarsh and Yarriambiack shires have no service provision.

Ms Hill said sexual and reproductive health was often overlooked, or left to specialist providers; and the limited number of current providers needed support to share the load.

“We shut a bit earlier in the day now, and we’re no longer open on Sundays, and that’s to give balance to everybody.

“COVID really hurt everybody here – we did three years of exhausting work.

“I want them to be able to have a family life.”

New environment

Dr Shamima Nasrin is the newest doctor to join the clinic, having moved to the region with her family about three months ago from Melbourne. She had worked at Monash Health and The Austin hospitals in Melbourne for 15 years and hopes to become involved in the Wimmera community.

“Horsham is a very quiet area compared to Melbourne. I would really like to stay here and my plan is to stay long term,” she said.

“I like the Wimmera River and the Wimmera people – they are really friendly and co-operative and helpful.”

The famous rock-climbing opportunities at Mt Arapiles, also known as Djurite, near Natimuk, attracted Dr Felix Ritson to the

region about 18 months ago from Melbourne.

“I fell in love with the community,” he said.

“There’s so much spare time here and it’s a such heathier environment.

“The clinical work is much more interesting and engaging as well.

“In a small community, you get to know all your patients and everyone knows each other.

“It gives it just so much more meaning and enjoyment, compared to the city.”

Training lead

Dr David Wilson, an obstetrician and paediatrician, has scaled back his patient load in order to lead training and supervision requirements according to doctors’ individual experience.

He was previously sharing training duties with Dr Chris Wimbury, who died in March.

Dr Wilson said doctors experienced a steep learning curve, in moving from the acute care of a hospital environment to preventative health and continuation of care in general practice.

Training includes supervised

patient consultations, one-on-one training and weekly sessions for all doctors.

“We are working to become a really well-known training post,” he said.

“We see offering training as a way of paying forward; that if you’ve had training yourself, you should pay it forward and train someone else.”

Mrs Wilson said the clinic treated upwards of 300 patients a day, from across the Wimmera, including new patients. It often hosts specialists and has a designated telehealth room, seeking to minimise travel commitments for local patients.

“We’re trying to work smarter and help people as much as we can in the community,” Mrs Wilson said.

A mobile phone HotDoc app is streamlining the process of making an appointment, booking an average 90 to 100 appointments a day.

“HotDoc has given people an availability space – where they can book, what they want to book in, in the time frame they want to book it,” she said.

She said local options reduced challenges such as travel, though timely access to services and privacy were common challenges and concerns.

Ms Hill said while advocacy would focus on working with service providers, the organisation would also seek to draw state and federal politicians’ attention to ‘significant’ gaps.

“The feedback will help us advocate for the service access we want to see – what women see as the priority for them, locally,” she said.

“It will provide local services with the woman’s perspective. When we show lived experiences, I think they appreciate it more – there’s more empathy and understanding when you put yourself in the patient’s shoes.”

Ms Hill said the survey had received a strong volume of feedback to date.

People wanting to share their story further than the survey can arrange a confidential interview. Answers will be de-identified to ensure participant anonymity.

“If someone has had someone provide local care that’s made a difference to them and their live, and it’s been positive, we’d love to hear that, too – the validation of where local services have made a difference to people feeling confident to take up care,” Ms Hill said. “This will help us advocate for what we want to see.”

People wanting more information, or to share their story via the anonymous online survey, can go to whg.org.au

People can also phone 1800 My Options on 1800 696 784 or go to 1800myoptions/com.au for assistance.

– Jessica Grimble

FULL HOUSE: Dr David Wilson, left, with Lister House Medical Clinic doctors, from left, Felix Ritson, Shamima Nasrin, Ochanya Otowo, Wakuna Dissanayake, Erum Nizamini and Shabnam Ariani, and front, Jo Marchesini.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

HRCC NEWS

Works to start on Hamilton Street public toilet

Works to build a new public toilet in central Horsham’s southern shopping area will start this week.

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 super-

market, 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. Work is expected to be completed by the end of November.

OTHER TOILETS UNAVAILABLE:

From next week, public amenities at Baker Street and the Woolworths carpark will be closed for several weeks while they undergo refurbishment.

PEDAL BOATS A STEP CLOSER

Interest sought from commercial operators

Horsham Rural City Council is calling for expressions of interest to launch a long-awaited water recreation initiative on the Wimmera River.

Former Mayor Mark Radford was successful in leading a 2019 campaign to acquire 10 pedal boats for people to use on the Wimmera River through the Victorian Government Pick My Project scheme.

But since then Council has not been able to attract a not-for-profit community group to operate the pedal boats.

“Volunteer availability has been the main deterrent,” Chief Executive Officer Sunil Bhalla said.

“Council is now seeking expressions of interest to find a commercial operator,” he said.

The project was completed in 2020 during the pandemic, with the boats, life jackets, timers and a purpose-built trailer delivered to Horsham.

Chief Executive Officer Sunil Bhalla said Council was committed to seeing the pedal boats project come to fruition.

“At the time of the successful proposal,

it was identified that a local community group would need to come on board to run the pedal boats as a business, offering the boats for hire,” he said.

“With warmer weather just around the corner, there is now a business opportunity for potential operators and a fantastic tourism offering for our beautiful Wimmera River.”

Mr Bhalla said the pedal boats would complement recent developments along the river including the Nature Play Park

VICTORIAN SENIORS FESTIVAL 2023

Wimmera seniors will be treated to entertainment and fun-focused activities during next month’s Victorian Seniors Festival. There is something for everybody, and most events are being offered at either reduced cost or free of charge.

For more information contact Community Inclusion Officer Daniel Rees. Email daniel.rees@hrcc.vic.gov.au or phone: 5382 9777.

Events schedule:

4 October: Horsham & District Community Groups Expo, Horsham Town Hall

6 October: Uke can sing together, Horsham Neighbourhood House

8 October: Come and Try Croquet afternoon, Horsham Croquet Club

11 October: Natimuk & District Senior Citizens High Tea, Soldiers Memorial Hall

18 October: A fun day for all Seniors, Kalimna Park Croquet Club

19 October: Let’s Dance, Hamilton Lamb Memorial Hall

20 October: Tai Chi Session, Haven Hall

22 October: Music for the young at heart, Laharum Hall

24 October: Horsham Seniors Concert, Horsham Church of Christ

25 October: Tai Chi Session, Horsham Seniors Citizens Centre.

Next Council Meeting: Monday 25 September 2023 - 5.30pm

and the riverfront activation project.

“They will offer more ways for residents and visitors to enjoy our riverfront.”

“The addition of pedal boats will introduce a fun activity for families and friends to get out and about on the water,” he said.

Scan the QR code to see the tender advertisement.

QUANTONG COMMUNITY CONVERSATION

Quantong community members and groups are invited to join Horsham Rural City Councillors and staff for a community conversation

Monday 18 September 2023 5.30pm to 7pm

Quantong Recreation Reserve

This is an opportunity for people from the Quantong area to raise local issues and questions for Council

We look forward to seeing you there.

If you want to raise a question or topic for conversation prior to the meeting please contact Fiona Kelly. Phone 53829725 or email: fiona.kelly@hrcc.vic.gov.au

HAVE YOUR SAY

Current Community Engagements

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

PROPOSED REGIONAL MUSEUM - INVENTORY OF EXISTING COLLECTIONS

Council would like to hear from community members or groups who house significant historical items that represent and define our region that could be part of the proposed museum.

ACCESSIBLE PATHWAYS AND CROSSINGS

HRCC wants to hear from the community about improving pathways or crossings to increase accessibility, ease of travel and pedestrian safety.

The information you provide will assist Council to develop a Pathways and Crossings Plan.

TENDERS AND RFQ

Q23-032

NETBALL PAVILION CONSTRUCTION

Netball pavilion, associated infrastructure and landscaping at Horsham City Oval

Closes 12noon, Thursday 14 September

Q08/2024

DRAINAGE UPGRADE JUNG

Upgrade of drainage at Store Street, Jung.

Closes 12noon, Wednesday 13 September

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST 24-005 MANAGEMENT AND OPERATION OF PEDAL BOATS

HRCC is seeking a commercial operator to manage and operate 10 pedal boats on the Wimmera River, Horsham.

Closes 12noon, Monday 18 September

24/008

CONSULTANCY SERVICES - HORSHAM FLIGHT HUB MASTER PLAN STAGE TWO DETAILED DESIGN Development of a Regional City - Horsham Flight Hub Master Plan.

Closes 12noon, Monday 25 September

24-006

ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES – WIMMERA MULTI-SPORT SCHEMATIC PLANS Schematic plans and quantity surveyor estimations for the plan's three proposed sites.

Closes 12noon, Monday 2 October

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

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

Housing boon for Stawell

BY JESSICA GRIMBLE

Stawell is on the cusp of witnessing rise to a major housing boon.

Northern Grampians Shire Council will call on Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny to rezone land on the corner of Sloane Street and the Western Highway which, if approved, would transform a 7.5-hectare parcel of grazing land into a 110-lot housing development.

Despite the rezone application, developer Sherridon Homes has already secured first-stage planning approval and will work with the council on staged development of the site.

Sherridon Homes Ballarat regional manager Ryan Pridham said a ‘large portion’ of stage-one contracts were signed and stage-two land would be released soon.

He expects construction of new homes, on lots ranging from 350 to 630 square metres, to begin early next year.

All-weather surface work

More than 30 routes across Horsham Rural City municipality have been identified for upgrades to an all-weather surface.

Horsham Rural City Council infrastructure director John Martin said the council was preparing a proposal for farm machinery route upgrades as an input to its 2024-25 budget process.

The upgrades would seek to facilitate machinery movement in all weather conditions, and to reduce the need for large machinery on major roads.

Mr Martin’s comments come in response to a question from McKenzie Creek resident Neville McIntyre, during last month’s council meeting, about the condition and maintenance of Grahams Bridge Road.

“Grahams Bridge Road is identified in council’s rural road network plan as a proposed farm machinery route,” Mr Martin told the meeting. “The intention of that status is to make the road an all-weather surface with sufficient vegetation clearance for large vehicles.

“More than 30 routes across the municipality have been identified for this upgrade.

“As funding becomes available, there will be further consultation to assist in identifying the priority routes for upgrades.”

‘Hand-Up’ event

“We are thrilled to have started the civil construction on stage one at Fringelily Estate,” he said.

“Growth like this in the area has been bubbling away and discussed for some time, but has now come to life.

“This will provide opportunities to the community of Stawell and beyond – not only the chance to build your new dream home, but also to invest locally.

“Employment opportunities will also present themselves with the need for trade and suppliers to service this exciting new development.”

Councillors, at their latest meeting last week, unanimously voted to adopt an amendment to the council’s planning scheme and write to Ms Kilkenny for her approval, which would then direct the council to issue the associated planning permit for the development.

Mayor Kevin Erwin said housing shortages were ‘consistently’

raised as major barriers to attracting and retaining staff and were cited as hampering the expansion of businesses in the regional growth sectors of mining, agribusiness, food processing, health services and renewable energy.

Growth forecast

Wimmera Southern Mallee Development, formerly known as Wimmera Development Association, had reaffirmed these needs and challenges in its Housing Blueprint of April 2022. It forecast Northern Grampians shire as an area of significant growth.

“Based on our engagement with local businesses, Stawell and surrounds will need about 1000 additional workers in the coming few years. We just need to make sure we have somewhere for them to live,” Cr Erwin said.

He said stage-one construction was forecast to generate an additional 28 jobs and add $7.2 million of economic value to the shire’s

economy. Future stages are expected to deliver similar economic flow on effects.

The land is zoned rural living and general residential. It would be rezoned neighbourhood residential.

“I can’t actually recall a development of this size happening in Stawell for a long, long time – if at all – so it’s great to see,” Cr Erwin said.

“Already sales have been good and it’s a very positive step to see actual dirt turned.

“Hopefully, in the new year, we will see some houses rising out of the ground.

“I’m sure that this will add to the confidence of Northern Grampians shire.”

The council received two submissions to the project – one which supported the project and the other, from the State Transport Department, calling for traffic management consideration in any future master planning.

Goolum Goolum Aboriginal Co-operative’s mental-health awareness campaign Hand-Up returned for its second year in August and will culminate in a community event next week.

The campaign aims to foster meaningful conversations around mental health and well-being within the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, while providing valuable resources and support.

Exploring mental health awareness and cultural strength, this year’s theme ‘Healthy Mind, Healthy Body’ invites community members to engage in activities that nurture holistic wellbeing.

Goolum Goolum general manager Johnny Gorton said the campaign and community event aligned with the co-operative’s ongoing commitment to promoting holistic wellbeing within the Indigenous community.

“Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall wellbeing, and it is vital that we address it openly and with sensitivity,” he said.

“Our campaign endeavours to break down stigma surrounding mental health issues and create a safe environment for our community members to share their experiences.

“As we gather to celebrate the strength of our community’s cultural resilience, it is crucial we also address the pressing issue of mental health support in the Wimmera.

“The ‘shame-job’ surrounding seeking help is compounded by the lack of accessible mental health services. Through this event, we aim to not only honour our traditions, but also to shine a light on the importance of destigmatising mental health support and advocating for improved services that every member of our community deserves.”

The community event on September 22 at Horsham Soundshell features a diverse line-up of renowned personalities and cultural activities to encourage dialogue and celebration.

Speakers include Courtney Ugle, a VFLW athlete and family violence advocate; Aunty Titta Secombe, who will lead a hands-on workshop on making a traditional ball for the game of Marngrook, which inspired today’s Australian rules football; and comedian Kevin Kropinyeri.

HOST SUCCESS: Horsham City Pipe Band hosted its first mini band, quintet and solo drumming competition at Horsham Botanic Gardens on Sunday. Horsham No. 1 band was overall winners, taking out first place in the Grade 4B selection on marches and medley contests; while the hosts also won first place in the quintet contest, pictured. Mini bands from across regional Victoria, metropolitan Melbourne and South Australia, consisting of four pipers, two snare drummers, a bass drummer and a tenor drummer, attended — with many submitting multiple mini bands. They competed before a drumming judge and a piping judge in different grades and contests, such as selection of marches or a medley.

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Push to advance project

BY JESSICA GRIMBLE

An Ararat Rural City Council endorsement will advance a decades-long plan to encourage renewable energy projects.

The council has approved a development plan for Ararat Renewable Energy Park, located on about 35 hectares of councilowned land, east of Ararat – a project designed to encourage industrial development, specifically relating to renewable energy and the circular economy.

Chief executive Dr Tim Harrison said council officers were talking with interested parties to develop individual lots within the park but, to trigger any development, an approved development plan was required.

The development plan will become a key strategic-planning document, ensuring the land is developed in alignment with the council’s long-term vision.

Dr Harrison said the council had owned the land ‘for a considerable time’, with its original intention to become a solar park.

He told last month’s council meeting that until now, a development plan overlay had

Steep rise in parking infringement notices

–

prevented the granting of permits under the zone before the development plan was approved.

“Now we have an opportunity, as the circular economy moves onto us, that there are a range of projects that are showing interest in moving to Ararat – and we need to move forward with the development plan for that site,” he said.

Mayor Jo Armstrong said endorsing the development plan was a ‘logical step’ for the council to take.

“This is a necessary step of process to be able to give carriage to what was the intent of setting that land aside and identifying it a couple of decades ago; to matching it in a very sound and clear manner with the goals of our council plan,” she said.

Crs Peter Beales and Henry Burridge acknowledged the long period of time since the council purchased the land.

“Essentially, we’ve had a piece of property sitting out there for 20-odd years that we can’t do anything with until we actually come up with a development plan,” Cr Burridge said.

“The development plan isn’t a permit or anything; it’s just saying that this land is suitable for development for industrialone purposes and then after that, you can go through the permit process.”

Cr Bob Sanders said the development plan recognised and maintained the original intended purpose of the land.

“It’s really, really good to see this land actually, finally, being used for what it was originally planned – or something similar,” he said.

The land, an irregular polygon shape, is located near the Western Highway, Ararat Aerodrome and an existing service station.

Dr Harrison said the development plan sought to ensure the use, operations and safety of Ararat Aerodrome, located on public land, was not impacted.

Local laws officers in Horsham have issued more than 700 parking fines in eight months.

Horsham Rural City Council has noted an increase in infringements particularly during July and August after an initial three-month grace period following the instalment of new parking meters across the regional city.

Sixty new meters replaced more than 360 meters that had reached the end of their serviceable life.

The 722 infringements, issued to the end of August, surpasses 374 infringements issued during the 2022 calendar year, and 860 infringements issued during the 2021 calendar year.

The council’s director communities and place, Kevin O’Brien, in responding to a public question at a council meeting last month, said the new meters and supporting technology including an increased number of metered areas had resulted in an increase in infringements this year.

“The total number of infringements over the 2021 and 2022 calendar years have been impacted by COVID due to lockdowns, free parking, as well as a number of the previous meters not working therefore enforcement not being able to occur,” he said.

Changes to parking meters has evoked much conversation and frustration among residents.

It also resulted in a call from the council and Horsham police after local laws officers experienced a series of incidents involving abusive or threatening behaviour, in-person and via social media.

The council, in the wake of the new meters, has now closed feedback to a six-month review of its parking strategy following a fortnight of formal engagement.

Feedback submitted since the installation of the new meters will also inform recommendations for councillors’ consideration at their next meeting on September 25.

READY FOR A ROARING TIME: Horsham’s Pam and Michael Clarke, with Bruce Brody’s 1929 Rugby and Darrell Jeffries’ 1928 Chevrolet, will be among people ‘flying’ into Minyip for the 1920s Soiree at Minyip Memorial Hall on Sunday, September 24 – a fundraiser for the Royal Flying Doctor Service, Victoria. Robyn and Des Lardner will host the event, with Mrs Lardner retiring from the board after almost 13 years. “It has been an honour being part of the organisation and seeing it now offering many primary health services and more recently introducing its community volunteer transport service, now in Warracknabeal, nine other sites across Victoria and transporting end-of-life care service known as Memory Lane,” she said. “When I first commenced it was mainly a fundraising organisation, with six part-time staff and now has more than 500.” The event runs from 2pm to 6pm and includes a 1920s afternoon tea, live entertainment from captain Tom Ryan and his band Shrewd Brass – the Flying 4, and an opportunity to step inside an aeromedical simulator. Guests are encouraged to dress in theme, but it is not essential. People can purchase tickets through the Horsham Plaza office on 5382 0912, by calling Mrs Lardner on 0400 769 900, or online via trybooking.com/ CJUCC Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

“Essentially, we’ve had a piece of property sitting out there for 20-odd years that we can’t do anything with until we actually come up with a development plan”

Cr Henry Burridge

Activities galore for holidays

The September school holidays are filled with activities for school children in the region, from skating competitions to movie nights.

The school break starts on Monday, until Thursday, September 28, with the AFL Grand Final public holiday on Friday, September 29.

Horsham Rural City

The school holidays begin a day early in Horsham with the Horsham Skatepark competition on Sunday, judged by national and international calibre judges.

Horsham Regional Art Gallery will host workshops both weeks, starting on Wednesday with a ‘wool felting’ session. Two lino printing classes will take place in the second week, with the first on Tuesday, September 26.

Hindmarsh

Hindmarsh Shire starts its holiday program with Zumba on Monday at Jeparit Hall and Rainbow Mecca Supper Rooms.

Science activities and arts and crafts follow on Tuesday and Wednesday at Dimboola, Nhill and Jeparit libraries.

The week finishes with a fishing workshop in Jeparit from 9.30am on Friday.

In the second week, there is an outdoor cinema night on the Monday from 7pm at Dimboola Recreation Reserve, before gaming at Rainbow Neighbourhood House on Tuesday from noon. Cooking workshops will take place on the Wednesday at Jeparit and Rainbow libraries.

West Wimmera

Youth Services West Wimmera is running a series of school holiday

activities for children aged 12 and older.

Cupcake decorating workshops will take place at Goroke Community Hub and Kaniva Shire Hall on Monday and Tuesday of the first week.

There will be a gaming afternoon at Kaniva Shire Hall on the first Friday, before another decorating workshop at Edenhope Community Centre on Monday, September 25 followed by a journaling workshop at Edenhope Red Tail Gallery on the Wednesday.

Yarriambiack

Yarriambiack Shire Council starts its school holiday program with flowerpot painting sessions in Patchewollock and Hopetoun on Wednesday. On the Thursday, there will be a

movie screening in Warracknabeal from 2pm, before jewellery-making at Rupanyup Senior Citizens Centre from 1.30pm on Friday.

Further flowerpot painting sessions are at Beulah and Woomelang on Wednesday of the second week, before mini canvas painting and embellishing in Warracknabeal on Thursday at 2pm.

Ararat Rural City

A movie will be showing at Ararat Library from 2pm on Monday, before an indoor pool party at Ararat YMCA Sports Complex from 5pm on Tuesday.

An extended LEGO free play session at Ararat Library will follow on Thursday, with arts and crafts on

Mineral boon

From page 1

PRACTICE: Ethan Riley performs a trick as Jesse McAnulty, Nick Bye, Ruben McAnulty and Ben Miller prepare for skating coaching and competition in the Wimmera this weekend. Picture:

PAUL CARRACHER

Friday. In the second week, a painting workshop will occur on the Tuesday in Pomonal from 1pm, and Wednesday at Willaura from 1pm.

Northern Grampians

An opening event for the Stawell Skatepark will take place on Saturday with a demonstration from pro skaters at 11am.

Stawell Sports and Aquatic Centre will also host school holiday activities. An intensive swim program begins on Monday and runs until Friday.

Note: This list is provided as a guide only. Some events incur ticket or entry fees. Event details and ticket availability are subject to change; contact the organiser directly to confirm bookings or for more information.

“When we drill holes, they are inches of diameter wide and once we’re finished, we put all the sand back down, cover them over, sprinkle seed and generally you can’t see anything,” Mr Hudson said.

He said there was a significant opportunity for exploration in western Victoria.

“Mineral sands are an accumulation of heavy minerals that formed, not too many millions of years ago, on old beaches – the Murray Basin was once the sea,” he said.

“Where we are looking is the edge of the old shoreline that extends from Edenhope in a big arc to Balranald into NSW and forms a big circle to south of Broken Hill.”

ACDC Metals chief executive Tom Davidson said as well as the two tenements with Oro Plata, the company had tenements between Natimuk and Edenhope.

“Mineral sands in western Victoria contain monazite which hosts a lot of rare earths, which is why there is a lot of excitement in the region and why more exploration activities are underway,” he said.

Mr Davidson said the company had completed low-impact drilling at various tenements in the region and was looking to progress exploration at Douglas towards the end of 2024.

“The advantage with mineral sands is they’re pretty homogenous, meaning you don’t need to drill a tight pattern,” he said.

“From the point of starting drilling to extracting, it could be seven to 10 years if it is economic – it’s a long process and you don’t want to jump into it too fast.”

Mr Davidson said four main rare earth metals of interest were used in permanent magnets including in electric vehicles and wind turbines.

“The big push to energy transition away from fossil fuels means there needs to be growth in supply of rare earths,” he said.

“There’s an opportunity for western Victoria to provide a large amount of rare earth required for the transition.”

A wonderful time of year

It’s the most wonderful time of the year.

So goes the Christmas song – and, at this time of the year, so, too, goes the sentiment of players and supporters of the various winter sporting competitions as 2023 seasons reach their thrilling conclusions.

The Wimmera loves its sport, there’s no secret about it.

There’s a buzz in the air, pep in the step and the heart might even beat a little faster.

It’s Christmas, for sport.

And despite the less-than-ideal conditions on Saturday, people turned out in their droves to cheer on their team – or adopted one for the occasion – for the first of two mega weekends of grand finals across the

City launches footpath plan

Residents in Horsham and Natimuk will have access to a footpath on at least one side of their street as part of a new council plan.

Horsham Rural City Council will install 4.4km of footpaths across five years at a cost of $840,000 – addressing areas of urban streets in both towns that are without footpaths on either side of the street.

The council will ensure footpaths on both sides of a street if there are more than 10 dwellings per hectare; and at least one side footpath if there are three to 10 dwellings per hectare. If there are fewer than three dwellings per hectare, there will be no footpath. It has listed an additional 1.4km of footpaths required in courts as a lower priority, due to their shorter length and lesser volume of traffic.

The council currently manages more than 180km of footpaths across the municipality.

The project, approved at the council’s meeting last month, comes after an extensive footpath project, including construction and reinstatement of infrastructure, throughout Horsham North.

Cr David Bowe said the project cost was an investment, spread across a five-year period.

“A footpath is a statement of community inclusion, safety and quality of life. As we grow and develop, we are finding areas still lacking this vital access. Improved footpaths allow for a safer traffic flow, will provide designated areas for pedestrians and reduce the chances of accidents and congestion,” he said.

“Importantly, they make our neighbourhood safer and more accessible.”

EDITORIAL

By Jessica Grimble

region. There’s something special, festive, about grand final day.

Premierships were awarded to Horsham District and Mininera football and netball leagues and the Wimmera Hockey Association at the weekend; with Wimmera, North Central and and Kowree-Naracoorte-Tatiara league football and netball premierships to follow this Saturday.

Congratulations to the teams and clubs who won their way through

to the big dance – to the players, supporters and volunteers who keep clubs and competitions humming; week in, week out, and have enjoyed ultimate success.

Congratulations also to all the teams and clubs who competed valiantly throughout the season; whose efforts and commitment span many months, across countless hours, for the opportunity, benefit and betterment of their communities. Many quietly, and without fanfare, for the love of the game.

And there’s little rest, as clubs quickly turn, or have already turned their attention to recruitment of players and leaders for the 2024 season.

It’s an enormous undertaking.

The ongoing viability and suc-

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Risks in nuclear power

cess of clubs – however it might be defined – is a constant and ongoing conversation among clubs and leagues, communities, groups and individuals.

There’s no doubt the importance of clubs, of any nature, to their members and communities – for their physical or creative outlet, social connection, their shared sense of purpose and drive. For identity and belonging.

May the impending short break, perhaps even paired with the renewed energy of a finals success, offer our winter sporting clubs, leagues, players and volunteers a chance to regroup, reflect and recharge – before preparations for 2024 begin in earnest.

Partnership builds on fundraising tally

Blue Ribbon Foundation Horsham branch and Woolworths Horsham are combining efforts to raise money for medical care at Wimmera Base Hospital.

Woolworths Horsham supports the foundation throughout September each year, in line with National Police Remembrance Day on September 29.

For the third consecutive year, Woolworths customers can purchase a raffle ticket to go in the

draw to win a trolley worth of groceries.

All money raised will go towards the branch’s fundraising goal of $45,000 for the hospital’s emergency department to purchase a rapid infuser.

Blue Ribbon Day, also National Police Remembrance Day, is a chance for the community to say thank you to those who protect and serve our community and ensure that those who died in the line of

I write in response to Dr Anne Webster’s comment piece in The Weekly Advertiser, September 6, titled ‘Nuclear Power should be in mix’.

When our world is in harmony with all of humankind respectful of the needs of others, I will be pleased to support nuclear energy as an effective producer of reliable, affordable zero-transmissions energy. However, I prefer we avoid dependence on a technology which carries the real risk of catastrophic disaster if mishandled at any step in the nuclear cycle.

Human error is a fact of life and mistakes can occur in any area of human endeavour. When the mistake may endanger both humans and the environment for thousands of years, the risks must be factored in to any business model.

Surely aspiring to a sustainable lifestyle in harmony with our assets is the best step forward.

Rosalind Byass, Stawell Outstanding support

Good news items are a rather scarce commodity in this current environment, however, our Horsham Neighbourhood House can feature as one.

Since the commencement of the Victorian government’s Power Saving Bonus began in March, more than 500 local citizens have attended the Neighbourhood House to seek and receive assistance in lodging their application, utilising greatly one of the many services offered at the establishment.

Congratulations to our two staff members for their outstanding support and connection with the community.

Kola Kennedy, president, Horsham Neighbourhood House Poor overlooked

On taking office, every Prime Minister says, “My government will govern for all Australians”.

The poorer taxpayers contribute more to absurd bank profits than richer Australians. No government has governed for poor Australians — not even the current one.

A government should be able to claim some of the absurd bank profits made fom the poorer taxpayers.

Jim McInerney, Wycheproof

duty are never forgotten. Fundraising will occur throughout September with the raffle winner drawn on October 2.

The branch is also preparing for its annual Gala event on November 11, and only has limited tables available.

People can contact branch secretary Kelly Schilling on 0437 894 257 or email brfhorsham@gmail. com to secure a table or seat.

welcomes your letters and contributions.

Please limit them to 250 words and address them to the editor at: jgrimble@aceradio.com.au or mail to: The Weekly Advertiser, Letter to the editor, PO Box 606, Horsham 3402.

East Grampians Health Service Oncology Unit services are available to private and public patients. The Oncology Unit operates every Wednesday, however also has capability for multi-day treatments when required.

An Oncologist visits the Unit every second Wednesday (second and fourth Wednesday of each month). A Haematologist visits on alternative Wednesdays.

Multiple treatments are available to patients who attend the Unit.

For further information, please call Kate Pitcher, Manager Acute Services 5352 9434

FOR A CAUSE: Woolworths Horsham’s Danny Hamerston and Tanya Jakobi, left, with Blue Ribbon Foundation Horsham branch’s Dale Russell and Kelly Schilling launch a raffle to fundraise for a rapid infuser at Wimmera Base Hospital.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Open for business

An initiative hoping to revitalise business in Ararat is changing the way entrepreneurs get their foot in the door, while transforming vacant spaces into curated pop-up shops.

Ararat Rural City Council’s pop-up grants program is aiming to breathe new life into Ararat’s quieter pockets, including under-utilised spaces and vacant shopfronts, and will provide businesses a funding boost of up to $2500 to get started.

The council’s chief executive

Dr Tim Harrison said the program gave business owners the chance to access vacant retail spaces on a short-term arrangement, in time for the busiest retail period of the year.

“Ararat Rural City is no doubt

a region on the move. We have a diverse economy and Ararat CBD is home to hundreds of established and emerging businesses,” Dr Harrison said.

“This initiative enables entrepreneurs and artisans to test their business ideas, relocate a business to Ararat, or take a homebased business to a main street presence.

“For a business operator, this pop-up program provides a flexible response to commercial arrangements for using a vacant space on a short-term lease in

the run-up to the holidays. This means less risk and resources spent on overheads and more time spent on growing your business. We are supporting and empowering business operators across all sectors to open up shop in our municipality.

“Council staff will ensure new operators get the information they need to get set up. We’re here to transform how we do business in Ararat.”

For those eligible, the pop-up Grants program will see funding of up to $2500 a business provided in two payments.

Dr Harrison said people interested in opening a pop-up shop could contact Ararat Rural City Council’s economic and development team by completing a short online application on its website www.ararat.vic.gov.au

Dancers to light up Ararat stage

More than 1000 performances will light up the stage when Ararat’s 66th annual eisteddfod returns to Ararat Town Hall this weekend.

The eight-day event, which starts on Friday, has again attracted dancers from across the state.

Eisteddfod spokesperson Chris Harris said troupe performances, across the first weekend of the competition, were a highlight and would include dancers aged eight to adult performing styles including theatrical and ballet.

“The Ararat Eisteddfod is a

highly-regarded eisteddfod on the Victorian circuit and is an important event for Ararat, bringing many visitors to town,” she said.

“Performance is an important part of a dance student’s development as it develops confidence, self-esteem, teamwork and artistry.

“Students perform in individual or solo items; duos or trios and troupes across a variety of genres depending on their interests.

“An enthusiastic audience is an important aspect of the stu-

Students help save butterfly

Horsham Primary School 298 campus students joined Zoos Victoria’s fight against extinction by planting creeping boobialla at school and along the Wimmera River.

Year-four student Tara Crafter said she was planting creeping boobialla with her peers for the golden-rayed blue butterfly.

boobialla, which naturally grows around ephemeral salt lakes and along the Wimmera River system, for egg laying and as an essential food source.

dents’ development, so we invite everyone to come along to the Ararat Town Hall and support these students in the development of their dance skills.”

Jess Roberts and Jason Teasdale are adjudicators.

Tickets are available at the door, cash only, for individual sessions; a day pass is also available. Children under-12 enter at no cost.

People wanting more information can go to the Ararat Eisteddfod Facebook page.

“We planted the creeping boobialla because the butterflies are in danger, so with the plants there will be more places for them to live so they don’t become extinct,” she said.

It is the first phase of a two-year habitat restoration trial for the butterfly, Victoria’s only known endemic butterfly.

Since June, volunteers have planted more than 5000 creeping boobialla, distributed through multiple community networks.

Zoos Victoria invertebrate conservation coordinator Jessie Sinclair said the survival of the rare butterfly was dependent on the delicate flowering ground cover.

“This beautiful little butterfly species is roughly the size of a 10-cent coin,” she said.

“It’s believed to rely solely on creeping

“Unfortunately, the plant’s range has contracted due to habitat loss, displacement by other plants and climate change, which has a direct impact on populations of the goldenrayed blue butterfly.”

Dalki Garringa Native Nursery, at Wail, owned and operated by Barengi Gadjin Land Council, propagated an endemic form of creeping boobialla for the habitat restoration trials.

Ms Sinclair said home gardeners could prioritise endemic plants where possible to support local invertebrate populations.

“We can all plant species native to our local area to allow native butterflies and other invertebrate species to thrive,” she said.

Trial plantings will be monitored for the next two years with outcomes helping to guide future habitat restoration and conservation activities.

CONSERVATION: Horsham Primary School 298 campus year-four students, from left, Tara Crafter, Emily Gregg and Holly James plant creeping boobialla along the Wimmera River. Picture: ABBY WALTER

“We are supporting and empowering business operators across all sectors to open up shop in our municipality”

– Dr Tim Harrison

‘Rumble at Rabl’ project revealed

BY ABBY WALTER

Murtoa Progress Association members, Yarriambiack

Shire councillors and Member for Western Victoria Jacinta Ermacora

celebrated new developments at Murtoa’s Rabl Park last week.

The ‘Rumble at Rabl’ project included a pump track and play space designed in consultation with the community.

The pump track is a 48-metre composite fibreglass and plywood structure for skaters and riders of all ages and abilities.

The nearby play space includes a vertical hoop climber, disc crossing, rock climbing wall, and fibreglass wave and safety slides.

The play space is complete with soft fall surfaces and boundaries, as well as a mock shopfront and steering wheel.

There will also be new trails and pathways connecting the park and new equipment, offering spaces for walking, running and casual active recreation activities.

Murtoa Progress Association president John Delahunty said the association was proud of what it had achieved within the park.

“I have three young children and we come to the park most Sundays and there is often another family or two using the equipment as well, which is what it is all about,” he said.

“It is a good way to stay connected and enjoy the outdoors.”

Mr Delahunty said the role of the association was to facilitate people and groups within the community to achieve beneficial outcomes for the community.

“It is very exciting – it shows the unity within our town and the boundless potential that lives within our community,” he said.

“It also represents the commitment of plenty of individuals, young and old, to help create a space that promotes outdoor activity and healthy living.”

Yarriambiack councillor Tom Hamilton said Murtoa school students first identified ‘Rumble at Rabl’ upgrades in 2019-20.

“The skate park at that time did not suit the needs of children. It was a bit advanced for people and potentially dangerous for beginners,” he said.

“The students had concerns and talked to the progress association, who put it on the community action plan and wrote a petition to council noting their concerns about the facilities and opportunities for upgrades.”

Cr Hamilton said while the council did not have an immediate solution, it set aside funding from the Federal

Elders Southern Wool Report

Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program.

He said when the opportunity to apply for the Victorian government’s Local Sports Infrastructure Fund came about, the council took it.

“The funding was for the skate park, playground and linking facilities together with tracks,” he said.

“In April 2022 the council received confirmation the funding was successful, so we started working on the project.

“It is very exciting – it shows the unity within our town and the boundless potential that lives within our community”

– John Delahunty

“Out of the funding, the State Government contributed $88,000 and the Federal Government contributed $56,00 for the project.

“In May this year, Willmore Contracting started the site preparation.

“In June the construction of the pump track and playground was undertaken and during July, council staff finished off the pieces and cleaned up any mess, as it was quite wet.

“We have put on hold finalising the tracks until further funding becomes available for further works on the project.”

Ms Ermacora said she was proud to celebrate the State Government’s contribution to the project.

“Play spaces give children the chance to experience adventure, develop skills and let their imagination run wild – all while spending time with family and friends,” she said.

“The combination of the pump track, play space and trails means there will be something for everyone here at Rabl Park, and I look forward to seeing the community put them to good use.

“We’re giving communities such as Murtoa the facilities they need and deserve so more people can tap into the health benefits of recreation and enjoying the great outdoors.”

BALES ROSTERED: 43,882

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OUTDOOR ACTIVITY: Member for Western Victoria Jacinta Ermacora tries out the new pump track at Rabl Park in Murtoa. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

You’re fine working alone, until you’re not.

Working alone is a contributing factor in the majority of farm workplace deaths.

No matter if it is a perfect day, or a storm is coming and you only have a short window to get the job done. Whatever it is, take a minute to think through what you’re doing. For strategies to stay safe while working alone, visit worksafe.vic.gov.au/working-alone-farms

It’s never you, until it is.

‘No tolerance’

An Ararat farmer has been convicted and fined $14,000 and disqualified from owning or being a person in charge of any farm animal for 10 years after pleading guilty to animal cruelty charges at Ararat Magistrates’ Court.

Agriculture Victoria program manager of animal health and welfare compliance

Daniel Bode said Ian White was convicted of 13 charges, including cruelty and aggravated cruelty charges involving the death and serious disablement of numerous sheep in his care, and two charges for failing to comply with notices.

The court heard the charges related to a failure to provide proper and sufficient food and veterinary or other appropriate treatment to about 475 head of sheep at White’s property at Buangor in June and July 2021, and August and October 2022.

Mr Bode said Agriculture Victoria officers first attended the property in mid-June, 2021 in response to an animal welfare complaint.

He said sheep were found to be suffering from starvation, worms and pregnancy toxaemia.

Despite numerous attendances and notices to comply issued by officers,135 sheep

were observed deceased and 15 were seriously disabled.

Magistrate Guillaume Bailin said it was a case that strongly called for disqualification, because the suffering of the sheep was ‘sustained, incredibly serious and profound’.

Mr Bode said the 10-year disqualification order ensured animals would be protected from further pain and suffering at the hands of the accused.

“It sends a very clear message that those who continually commit offences against animals should not have the privilege and opportunity to care for them in the future,” he said.

“Apart from the obvious pain and suffering of the animals, animal welfare breaches can jeopardise Victoria’s reputation as a humane and responsible producer of food, which can, in turn, affect all producers.

“This is a reminder to all livestock producers that animal cruelty will not be tolerated by the Victorian government or our community.”

Anyone wanting to make a specific complaint regarding livestock welfare can contact Agriculture Victoria on 136 186 or aw.complaint@agriculture.vic.gov.au

Insight into disability services

Information sessions in Stawell and Ararat next week will give people insights into a career in disability support.

Possability has an Ararat base, supporting the Grampians region, and offers a range of services including independent living, community-based supported employment, respite, positive behaviour and therapeutic supports, community and social skills development, and child and youth services.

Information sessions will include insight into a ‘day in the life’ of a support profes-

Support for cemetery upgrade

Visitors remembering loved ones and others discovering their family history will be graced by a new entrance when they visit Horsham cemetery.

Horsham Rural City mayor Robyn Gulline unveiled a plaque at the site, which acknowledges donors who have contributed to the new entrance.

aged by a car crash, leaving trust members to organise a new entrance.

Plans for the Davis Drive entrance were drawn up in 2014, before work started in September 2019 and concluded in December of the same year, with a sign mounted in 2020.

ested in putting some history panels inside the rotunda and maybe some maps indicating to visitors as to where each section is and where certain graves might be.”

Mr McDonald said the cemetery could always do with more volunteers to help update the grounds.

sional; the difference a support professional can make, directly from a person receiving support; information about the disability sector; and how people can join the Possability team.

A session is at Stawell’s North Park Community Sports Centre on Wednesday, September 20 and at Ararat’s Alexandra Oval on Thursday, September 21; both run from 6.30pm to 8pm.

People wanting more information, or to register interest, can email recruitment@ possability.com.au

Representatives of Horsham Sports and Community Club, Lions Club of Horsham, Horsham East Rotary Club and the former Italian Social Club attended the official unveiling.

Cr Gulline thanked the volunteers of the cemetery trust, who she said performed a vital role in the community.

Horsham Cemetery Trust chairperson Chas McDonald said the existing entrance had been dam-

Mr McDonald said the new entrance would be more appealing to visitors and help Horsham cemetery keep up with the changing role of such facilities.

“At the cemetery in Hamilton they have a children’s play area and an area where you can go and have a picnic,” he said.

“This is the sort of thing we are aiming towards.

“We have a rotunda planned for near the rose garden.

“The genealogy society is inter-

“There’s more work we could do with volunteers,” he said.

“We did some work at the infant’s memorial garden section that needed some refurbishment and some of the service clubs got involved with that.”

Mr McDonald said the cemetery relied on two permanent staff members for maintenance, with

JOINT EFFORT: Representatives of Horsham Sports and Community Club, Lions Club of Horsham, Horsham East Rotary Club and the former Italian Social Club attended the official unveiling of a new entrance at Horsham cemetery.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

A healthy newsletter for Horsham

Council performance plan

An updated code of conduct seeks to provide clarity to Horsham Rural City councillors on the scope and responsibilities of their role.

Municipal monitor Jude Holt, following her six-month tenure at the council last year, recommended councillors review governance rules and councillor code of conduct policies as part of a governance and performance improvement plan.

Councillors reviewed and updated the code of conduct at a public meeting in July, and the governance rules at a meeting in June.

The 30-page code of conduct defines roles and responsibilities of the council as a whole, councillors, the mayor and deputy mayor and functions of the chief executive whom the councillors employ. It includes a statement of purpose, group values and agreed behaviours and articulates expected standards of conduct, the management of misconduct and improper conduct, good governance principles and dispute resolution practices.

All councils, following election, are required to develop a code of conduct under state legislation and can amend the document at any time.

Cr David Bowe noted the guidance of firm Maddocks Lawyers, who developed the Wynd-

Like

Gala Gala

ham City Council code of conduct upon which the Horsham council’s code is based. He said the ‘living’ document should evolve with the community.

Cr Bob Redden said councillors had reviewed the document, and adjusted it, over a ‘considerable’ period.

“I think we do have a good code with the right balance between responsibility and respect for the council,” he said.

Local Government Minister Melissa Horne installed Ms Holt at the council last year in the wake of concerns with governance practices. Ms Holt was required to report any issues to Ms Horne, observe governance processes and provide advice to councillors and the executive team.

Among Ms Holt’s recommendations were that the council host a leadership development program to encourage more people to stand for the next election in 2024. The program is under development.

Chief executive Sunil Bhalla is providing quarterly reports to Ms Horne on the progress of implementing Ms Holt’s recommendations.

Racing club backs unit

East Grampians Health Service’s oncology unit purchased two items of equipment with a donation from Ararat Harness Racing Club.

The club donated more than $9200 to the oncology unit late last year in memory of club member David Woodfine, following two successful fundraising events – a race meeting and a trivia night.

The equipment, which was recently delivered, includes a specialised fridge for drug

Water workshop

storage and a trolley for cannulation equipment to be used at a patient’s chair.

The health service’s chief executive Nick Bush thanked the club for their generosity.

“The two events run by Ararat Harness Racing Club were very popular and those who attended were very generous with their donations to EGHS and our Oncology Unit,” he said.

“We are very grateful to the club and its members for their support.”

Grampians, Wimmera and Mallee water and wastewater customers are invited to have their say at GWMWater’s customer and stakeholder workshop. The workshop is between 10am and 1pm on Friday next week at Horsham Golf Club, with an option to join online. GWMWater managing director Mark Williams said the organisation valued opinions of its stakeholders and was committed to keeping them informed.

More information and registration details are available via gwmwater.org.au

Opening doors to study

BY SEAN O’CONNELL

Aregional education and training provider has been out and about in the community, answering people’s questions in time for them to enrol in courses next year.

Federation University’s pop-up information stall, which was in action at Horsham Plaza on Thursday last week, has been alerting potential students to the different career pathways in the region.

The service will return on Friday, October 13.

Diploma of Community Services teacher Brenna Lynch said the information stall was on-hand for people wanting to learn more about qualifications in community services, early childhood education and care, individual support and a diploma of nursing.

“Community services opens up to a lot of different career pathways,” Mrs Lynch said.

“Then we have the certificate III in early childhood, and that would allow people to work in childcare centres and kindergartens.

“Individual support includes community services, aged care and disability.

“The diploma of nursing gets you into being an enrolled nurse at a hospital, and you can go further to do a bachelor and paramedicine, which is online through Ballarat.”

Mrs Lynch said enrolment was open to anyone with an interest in the courses, including people wanting a career change.

“You could be someone who has just finished school or someone who is in their 40s and 50s wanting to apply,” she said.

“I’ve had students from across the whole range of ages.

“You might just want a change, or you could be looking at getting into child protection, family violence, or, with mental health becoming so paramount in our community, that’s become a huge area

of interest as well.” Mrs Lynch said the course offerings were accessible to people from a wide range of educational backgrounds.

“There are not many prerequisites – we do a pre-training interview and language, literacy and numeracy testing,” she said.

“You don’t have to have finished secondary school.

“It’s all about your willingness and your passion.

Stations secure

Victoria Police has confirmed there are no plans to permanently close one-member stations across the state.

The confirmation refutes Member for Lowan Emma Kealy’s claims last month that one-person police stations across Victoria were under threat and police officers from one-person stations would be forced to work out of larger regional centres.

A Victoria Police spokesperson said the organisation did not have any ongoing issues staffing oneperson stations due to resourcing.

“When a police station counter is closed, police are still available and on patrol 24 hours a day to respond to incidents and deter crime,” the spokesperson said.

“It is pivotal our officers are given the best opportunity to respond to urgent incidents and prevent crime before it can occur.

“We know crime is most effectively deterred and detected via highly visible patrols in the community, rather than from behind a desk at a police station.

“Police station counters are not well attended, particularly during the evening and overnight, with the community’s first port of call Triple Zero, 000, for emergencies or the Police Assistance Line, 131 444, for non-urgent reports.” One-member stations in the region include Apsley, Balmoral, Branxholme, Cavendish, Dartmoor, Dunkeld, Goroke, Harrow, Jeparit, Lake Bolac, Merino, Minyip, Natimuk, Penshurst, Rainbow, Rupanyup and Willaura.

Lodge shows support

Wimmera Masonic Lodge members have presented the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia with a donation worth $1000.

Drung – 7533 Western Highway, Drung Premium farming package & lifestyle

288 hectares or 712 acres in 4 titles.

This may very well be a once in a lifetime opportunity to secure some prime cropping land in a very tightly held area close to Horsham.

Improvements include an impressive 4 bedroom modern brick home with sensational mountain views along with excellent shedding, and close to Taylors Lake and Green Lake for recreational activities.

FOR AUCTION: Friday, October 20 2023 @ 1.00pm if not SOLD prior

Venue: TBA

Auction Terms: 10% deposit with Settlement 29th March 2024.

For full details please call Mark Clyne

M 0417 568 200 or 5381 1131

“If you are ready, then we can support you all the way.”

Federation University will host pop-up information stalls each month, with the next scheduled for October 13, from 10am until 4pm.

Staff will also be manning stalls on November 3 and December 15 and invite members of the community to head along for a chat.

Glenisla

Great

opportunity at

A recent dinner meeting gained attendance from Wimmera Masonic Lodge members, their partners and other Freemasons from various lodges throughout the area. They heard from guest speaker Mandy Johns, who is a prostate cancer specialist nurse at the Wimmera Cancer Centre in Horsham.

Mrs Johns talked about prostate cancer, its symptoms and treatment options and those in attendance had an opportunity to ask questions.

At the conclusion of the presentation, Worshipful Master Ian Brilliant presented Mrs Johns with a cheque, addressed to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, for $1000.

an affordable price

729.18 hectares or 1801.78 acres in 7 titles

On offer is a very scenic and productive high rainfall farmland at Glenisla, set between two mountain ranges.

Strategically located midway between Horsham & Hamilton on the main Henty Highway with multiple access points.

The harvesting of the approx. 1400-acre blue gum plantation is currently underway. The balance of the 1800 acres is approx. 175 acres of light open timber and 225 acres of existing pastures. The property has excellent water assets, good boundary fencing and multiple access points.

Price: $2500 per acre

Mark Clyne

M 0417 568 200 or 5381 1131

READY TO ASSIST: From left, Leonie Barnett, Brenna Lynch and Petena Thomas at Federation University’s pop-up information stall at Horsham Plaza. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

stations.”

“There is a lot of paperwork involved and in the past, we would have to rest paperwork on laps, which was very inefficient.”

“5 new folding tables from the HSCC have assisted us dramatically with this.”

“Normally it requires significant time and effort to request financial help through grant applications, but the grant process is incredibly easy and straightforward with HSCC.”

“Their support offers a real lift up of morale because the grants assist the little eveyday things in life.”

“It’s quite different now from before the HSCC existed, with just how much they have benefitted the wider region, and all the clubs and groups they’ve supported.”

Over $3.133 Million has been donated to local communities in cash

since the club’s inception

The ‘Bank of Mum and Dad’

The temptation is obvious. Soaring house prices have made buying a home tough for most home buyers and prompted many parents to think they should step in and make a financial contribution.

The typical argument is that Mum and Dad don’t really need the money and that their children will inherit it one day anyway, so it might as well be now when it can do some real good.

As a result of this thinking, the ‘Bank of Mum and Dad’ is now estimated to be one of the top 10 mortgage lenders in the country, as more and more people turn to their parents for financial help when buying a home.

Digital Finance Analytics data shows parents are now contributing $90,000 on average towards the first-home deposit of each of their adult children, up 20 percent in the past 12 months.

With the median house price in Australia’s combined capital cities now $896,000, parents contribute about 10 percent as a deposit, or if two sets of parents are involved, 20 percent as a deposit.

For most parents, this is a large amount of money, which can be given to their children either as a straight-out gift or as a formal loan or so-called ‘soft’ loan.

Typically, this is done by drawing down against the value of their home as security and gifting the funds or providing a guarantee for their child to buy a home using their home as collateral.

The financial comparison site, Finder, estimates that 60 percent of all first-home buyers access funds from their parents to buy their first home.

More, it found that 50 percent of these children were facing some level of financial stress before deciding to buy a property with the help of their parents.

While gaining financial support from Mum and Dad might be essential for many Australians to take that first step onto the home ownership ladder, is it a good decision for Mum and Dad?

While some parents can afford this financial handout, it is only the case for some.

Figures from the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia show 1.68 million, or

FINANCE focus

with Robert Goudie CFP GradDipFP Consortium Private Wealth

more than half of all Australians aged 70 and older, have no super.

Of those older Australians who do have super, the median value is between $100,000 and $149,000, suggesting few in this age bracket have funds they can afford to give away.

ASFA estimates only 185,000 Australians have $500,000 or more in super, and about 27,325 individuals have more than $2 million in super – a figure where giving funds to children might be affordable.

These figures change considerably for Australians in the 50 to 70 age bracket as these younger Australians have had access to super for longer. However, it’s clear that the ‘Bank of Mum and Dad’ is not as flush with funds as suspected, and many are sowing the seeds of their own financial destruction.

While it is simple in the first flush of retirement to think there is more than enough to support Mum and Dad for as long as they live, life events might undermine this.

No-one knows how long they will live or what medical issues they might face through retirement, which could mean they, themselves, need every cent they have.

Throw in the prospect of one or both parents needing to move into a nursing home at some stage, which can be a significant cost of about $500,000 per parent; then their finances start looking very shaky.

The real fear is that in trying to help their children buy a home, all the ‘Bank of Mum and Dad’ is really doing is pushing up house prices and sowing the seeds of their own financial problems.

• The information provided in this article is general in nature only and does not constitute personal financial advice.

roles

Changing of the guard

Natimuk Farmers Market Plus has been handed over to the next generation of volunteers.

Renee McLean will take responsibility for market registration and Facebook postings, while Margaret Isaacson will continue to meet and greet site holders at the gate, allocate sites and collect fees.

President Robert Rogers said 22 volunteers gave their time to support each market.

Secretary Judith Bysouth said it was timely to step back from volunteering for the Natimuk Farmers Market Plus since her husband’s retirement, to spend more time with him.

A subcommittee of Natimuk Agriculture and Pastoral Society runs the market.

The society recently installed shade sails with funding support from the Victorian government’s sunshade grant and Horsham Sports and Community Club.

The next Natimuk Farmers Market Plus is scheduled for November 5 and the Christmas market is on December 10.

Market dates for 2024 include Easter Sunday, Kings Birthday weekend, Natimuk Biennial Frinj Festival Market, the first Sunday in November and the second Sunday in December.

TOP TEAM: Natimuk Farmers Market Plus team, from left, Robert Rogers, Judith Bysouth, Margaret Isaacson and Renee McLean fine-tune details for volunteer

to change.

Service acts on identified issues

East

Grampians Health Service, following community and stakeholder consultation, has launched its strategic plan 2023-27.

Chief executive Nick Bush said the board’s development of the plan involved creating a list of priority strategies, stakeholder consultation and synthesis of information to set directions and specify objectives and actions that could be monitored.

Consultation sought to capture views and opinions of a broad range of staff, partners and community members.

A total of 656 engagements occurred, either through surveys, interviews or face-to-face consultations.

Mr Bush said five key emerging trends were identified as issues requiring consideration in the strategic plan, including demographics of an ageing population, increasing levels of chronic disease, efficiency of the current role and configuration of the Willaura campus, role delineation, and changes to local and regional economies. He said the strategic plan focused on three directions.

“The first direction, ‘rebalancing the distribution of service across the care continuum’, will involve developing communitybased chronic disease manage-

ment models to meet demand and avoid acute and residential aged care service intervention, and enhance pathways into, and connection with, primary care,” Mr Bush said.

“We plan to develop a model of care for community-based chronic disease management, proactively plan and extend the Better@Home initiatives, further develop the In-home Aged Care Program, and establish a partnership mechanism to address care improvements that intersect with primary and community care.

“A key component of this will be working on the Willaura Healthcare Service Model, and hopefully redevelopment.”

Alternative models

The second direction was ‘improving access, efficiency and integration through identifying and implementing alternative models of care and service provision’. The direction will see the organisation deliver more services using virtual models of care supported by technology and improve access to targeted specialist services across the community.

“EGHS will develop a digital health strategy, which incorporates a co-ordinated approach to using telehealth for specialist services, virtual rounds, and

e-health solutions,” Mr Bush said.

“We will also implement a capacity plan, which incorporates enhanced surgical services, a sustainable model for maternity services and enhanced urgent care services.”

Mr Bush said direction three was ‘partnering to drive collaborative practice, service and workforce sustainability’.

“This will involve using partnerships to address workforce shortages and extend existing workforce capabilities, and using partnerships to drive collaborative action,” he said.

“EGHS will refine its workforce strategy to align with changes in service delivery across the organisation and develop a research strategy that positions EGHS as a destination for rural health research.

“We will establish formal role delineation with partner health services for medical, maternity and surgical services and review all existing pathways of care where more than one provider is identified and act on gaps.”

Mr Bush said a progress report on the strategic plan would be presented to the board monthly.

“The strategic plan has many priorities to be addressed and these have been delegated for implementation,” he said.

Nature-inspired art on exhibit

A Melbourne-born artist has taken out the prestigious top prize of a Grampians-based competition.

Judges voted Martin King’s work, ‘Tree of life, diary of lost souls in twenty volumes No 2’ the most outstanding in the biennial WAMA Art Prize at Ararat Gallery TAMA.

Showcasing a multi-disciplinary range of nature-inspired Australian artists, the WAMA Art Prize, ‘Works on Paper’, celebrates connectivity with nature and raises awareness of conserving the environment.

More than 300 works were submitted for judges’ consideration and 50 finalists are represented at the Ararat Gallery TAMA exhibition until November 19.

Among them were Zena Cumpston, Johanna Weiss and Lizzie Horne, who received awards of excellence.

WAMA Arts Advisory Council chair Jacky Healy said the winning artworks revealed the range of ways artists engaged with nature and the environment.

“King is one of Australia’s leading printmak-

ers, his work evokes the impact of colonisation on our landscape and the fusing together of the past and present through the natural world,” she said.

“Cumpston’s work on paper shares the deep cultural knowledge of First Nations People. The work physically incorporates kopi, also known as gypsum, from her Country, manifesting Country as ever-present within her. “Weiss’s work is in response to the bushfires that ravaged the coastal areas of NSW. Her work commemorates nature’s capacity to regenerate after devastation, symbolised by the layers of paper in her work.

“Finally, Horne, in amazement observes the movements of the lace monitors and their state of camouflage in the landscape through a superbly detailed etching.”

WAMA is Australia’s national centre for environmental art, located between Halls Gap and Pomonal.

A panel of Victorian art industry representatives judged the award.

EXPRESSION: WAMA Art Advisory Council chair Jacky Healy, Ararat Rural City mayor Jo Armstrong, WAMA patron Glenda Lewin and WAMA Art Prize major acquisitive winner Martin King at Ararat Gallery TAMA.

Inspiring civic pride at Kaniva

Kaniva and District Progress Association hopes to inspire the community with a three-woman panel at a Feel Good Friday event.

Victorian gender equality commissioner Niki Vincent will join Wimmera women Louise Hobbs and Wendy Bywaters at Little Guys Pizza and Café, Kaniva on Friday.

The trio will share experiences in a casual conversation from 5pm.

Dr Vincent is visiting Kaniva as part of her Wimmera regional tour.

Kaniva and District Progress Association chair Marlene Carter said the Feel Good Friday event was part of the association’s commitment to facilitate community development and encourage a feeling of civic pride.

“We are very fortunate to have Dr Vincent visit Kaniva and we thought this was a great opportunity to open this meeting to the general public,” she said.

Dr Vincent took on the role of commissioner in 2020 where she oversees implementation of the Gender Equality Act 2020 and plays a leadership role in promoting gender equality in communities and workplaces.

Throughout her career, she also served as South Australian Commissioner for Equal Opportunity from 2016 to 2020 and was previously chief executive at Leaders Institute of South Australia and a member of the Remuneration Tribunal of South Australia.

Dr Vincent has established two successful not-for-profit organisations, holds an

appointment as an Adjunct Associate Professor at UniSA’s Business School and is a board member of InTouch Multicultural Centre Against Family Violence and the Brave Foundation.

Miss Hobbs is the 2023 Wimmera Agricultural Societies Association winner of the Victorian Agricultural Society rural ambassador award.

She was also selected as one of the 2022 ABC Trailblazer winners.

Previously a recipient of several gender equality programs and scholarships, she advocates for rural education in her subjects of agriculture, science and business management.

Miss Hobbs is chair of the Young Rural Regional and Remote Women’s Advocacy Panel for the National Rural Women’s Coalition.

Cr Bywaters is a graduate of the Wimmera Development Association’s Leadership Wimmera Business Leaders program.

She is a councillor for Hindmarsh Shire and also served from 2012 to 2016, which included two years as deputy mayor.

She spent 15 years serving on the board of the Wimmera Southern Mallee Local Learning and Employment Network.

The event is free and the Kaniva and District Progress Association encourages all community members to attend.

People wanting to attend can RSVP to Helen Hobbs at 0429 888 250 or kanivaprogress@gmail.com by tomorrow.

HANDS ON: Elina Hay, above left, tries giant Jenga and Archie Myers puts together a keychain made from nuts and bolts during a Bunnings children’s activity evening.

Fun and games for all the family

Bunnings Horsham has been hosting children’s activity nights for more than nine years.

More than 40 volunteers including Bunnings employees and people from different community groups give up their time to create some fun for Wimmera families.

At its latest activity night, more than 200 people attended for fun and games.

Families had the opportunity to enjoy arts and crafts, build keychains out of nuts and bolts, as well as sand art and creative Father’s Day cards.

Horsham mother of three Emily Friedrichsen took her three children to the event.

CREATIVE: Hunter Boddi and Ruby Janetzki decorate the floor with chalk.

“As a parent of three all under eight years, this is a fun time I get to spend with my children,” she said.

“The smiles on their faces and being able to watch them play means the world to me.”

The next event will be the Bunnings Christmas family night on December 7, from 6pm to 8pm.

HISTORY: Wimmera and Ararat Legacy clubs commemorated 100 years of supporting veterans’ families with the Legacy Centenary Torch Relay last week. Torch bearers carried the torch from May Park to the cenotaph in Horsham on Thursday, while torch bearers in Ararat marked the event on Saturday. Pictured clockwise from above: Ararat torchbearers following the ceremony; Alex Stewart starts the Horsham leg; Cory Hallam-Brook lights the cauldron at the conclusion of the Horsham event; Philip Nicks continues the Horsham journey; Ruth Ballinger and Neil Popple in Horsham; and Veteran and Ararat Legatee Russell Rachinger continues Ararat’s journey. Wimmera Legacy invited anyone wanting to donate to the organisation to contact admin@wimmeralegacy.com.au

Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

Picture: SHARON BASSETT

Picture: SHARON BASSETT

Wade’s is powering the Wimmera

The Horsham-based business has traditionally offered a portfolio of services including home heating and cooling, and added its electrical service a couple of years ago.

Wade’s Electrical has quickly become a proud and reliable electrical service provider that services the entire Wimmera region.

Owner Adrian Wade said with a team of eight — including four qualified electricians and four apprentices, with support from the dedicated administration team — Wade’s Electrical offered a wide range of electrical services to meet the needs of customers.

Service areas include, but are far from limited to, commercial applications, new homes, solar installations and general electrical maintenance works.

Wade’s Electrical also offers a multitude of services specifically for farms.

“From solar installations to general electrical installations and maintenance, Wade’s Electrical is equipped to handle all electrical needs — whether it’s for your home, business or farm,” Mr Wade said.

“Our qualified electricians have the expertise and experience to tackle any electrical project, large or small, with precision and efficiency.

“Our apprentices are highly trained and work under the close supervision of our experienced

electricians, ensuring that all work carried out is of the highest quality.”

Wades’ long-established reputation of providing great customer service is ingrained across the business, including within Wade’s Electrical.

Mr Wade said the team aspired to satisfy customers and provide the highest possible standard of service.

“At Wade’s Electrical, we understand that customer satisfaction is key and we strive to deliver excellent service and quality work-

Thinking elec ical?

Domestic

We have extensive experience in domestic electrical services. Contact us today.

Solar Installs

There has never been a better time to look into a solar installation for your home or business.

Maintenance

Electrical maintenance is very important for the safety of any home or business.

Commercial

From retail to hospitality to healthcare, we offer a variety of commercial services.

Farms

We offer a multitude of services specifically for farms and our contractors have experience in the industry.

manship every time,” he said. “Our team is friendly, professional and always willing to go the extra mile to ensure our customers are happy with the work we do.

“Whether you need an electrical upgrade, a new installation, or routine maintenance, Wade’s

The electrical team at Wade’s – delivering excellent service and quality workmanship every time

Electrical has the knowledge, skills and experience to get the job done right.”

Mr Wade encouraged people wanting to discuss their electrical needs, or for more information, to phone the team on 5382 3823.

“We install and service what we sell”

About the Coach!

I grew up in a small country town famous for its Gold Rush Days and Fast Foot Paced Race.

My parents were an active couple and introduced me to the game of tennis at very young age from the Grampians, Victoria in the late 80s.

I became a natural to the sport and began playing in many events by the time I was at the age of 9.

I participated in many local competitions to regional tournaments and championships succeeding in almost every event entered gaining a good reputation from local radio broadcast in the 90s.

As I developed I gained selection into Regional Squad Training to prepare for a championship event that would determine selection to represent the Wimmera Region for each age group.

From my achievements at many other tournaments I was also granted the privilege of being selected into a Western Zone Squad preparing for Victorian State and National Championship events at the age of 14.

TEXT HERE

After being an upcoming player with what I had all those years ago tennis has always been my passion. Sharing it to Country Victorian Communities for the growth and interest of what tennis can really benefit everyone’s health and understanding is really what I thrive for.

From the age of 16 I was introduced to tennis coaching helping others improve their skills as a volunteer and over time I gained accredited qualification with insurance, Tennis Australia guidance and a clear sense of business understanding with high safety standards from other industries that impacts the community greatly.

Now over 20 years later I have returned offering my services across many venues within the Grampians Region of Victoria at a good reliable value.

Welcome to Patrick Hall Tennis!

For any enquiries call Pat on 0407 096 304

Owners call it a day

It’s not easy to let go of something that you have built from strength to strength. Letting go can be hard because it means letting go of aspects of your past—aspects of you. And it gets even worse when it’s something you’ve helped build for 26 years.

This stands very true for one of Naracoorte’s award-winning businesses, Top Mark Machinery, whose owners have decided to call it a day.

With a heavy heart and lots of gratitude, the company directors have decided to retire and pass on the business’s legacy to the new owners.

As the change in ownership takes place this month, Top Mark Machinery was established by its current owners, Trevor and Gail Pfeiffer and Stephen and Lindy Mark, in 1997.

The business opened its doors, selling tractor brands Massey Ferguson, White, Agco Star, Iseki Tractors and Out-Front Mowers, Claas Harvester’s, and various hay equipment.

Twenty-six years on, the business has become one of the leading suppliers of quality farming equipment in the South-east and Western Victoria.

Sharing their story, Trevor and Gail reflected on how challenging their journey was when they penned a new direction for the business with Stephen and Lindy in its early days.

“Getting the community to trust our brands was our biggest challenge.

“We knew if we got that right, we would get the support of our people,” they shared.

“Getting staff was another challenge for us. We started with one employee, and today we are proud to have eight staff members.

“We could not have done it without the support and loyalty of our customers. We have always greatly appreciated their support and for bringing us to this stage. Many customers have become our good friends.

“To all our customers, and there are over 1,000 of them, your loyalty and support are greatly appreciated.

“Letting go of the business is hard, but we have decided it’s now time to retire, rest, and focus on some other projects that Trevor has started,” Trevor and Gail shared.

They shared that one of their business partners, Stephen, passed away before Christmas last year, and his wife, Lindy, has decided to spend time with their family.

“The directors have put in a lot of effort to bring the company to where it is today. To our customers and the community, thank you for your loyalty and support.”

The business has three departments: sales, service, and spare parts.

DIRECTORS

Trevor and Gain Pfeiffer

Trevor is a qualified mechanic and has over 40 years working with farm machinery. Trevor manages the business operations, equipment sales and finance.

Gail is in the administration side of the business.

Stephen and Lindy

Stephen, deceased, had more than 35 years of experience with agriculture machinery spare parts. Stephen and Lindy looked after sales support, replacement parts accessories and workshop administration.

BRANDS

• In 1998, Fendt Tractors, Kverneland Hay Equipment, Amazone Fertiliser Spreader and Hardi Spraying Equipment were added.

• In 2002, Deutz Tractors were added, and we also started selling Massey Ferguson Large Square Baler.

• In 2008, Lely came on board with the supply of Tillage and Hay equipment, later to be purchase by Agco in 2018 - now sold as Massy Ferguson and Fendt.

• In 2014, we started selling Topcon Precision Guidance systems and in 2016 Introduced Staheliwest Hay Steamers. The business has had many other short line suppliers over the years as well.

MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS

• 15 Master Dealer awards From Agco, including National Top Performing Dealer in 2006.

• Six Top Dealer awards from Landpower for Amazone Sales.

• Overseas travel visiting factories, dealers, farms, and field da

• Sales 464 tractors, 198 balers, 169 mowers/mower conditioners and 243 Hardi Sprayers.

STAFFING

During the opening of the business, the staff consisted of Trevor and Gail Pfeiffer, Steve, and Lindy Mark (directors) and one mechanic, Keith Wardle.

Craig Ogilvie joined soon after and works with the company - apart from Trevor and Gail, Craig is the longest serving staff member.

The business has employed 71 people, some short term and some c and have trained eight apprentice diesel mechanics through to qualification.

Current staff: Josh Sheilds (Service Manager), Richard Mackay (Parts Manager), Craig Ogilive (Mechanic), Steve Wedding (Mechanic), Drew Pfeiffer (Mechanic), Xayde Meyers (Apprentice), Mechanic Richard Heffernan (Deliveries and Yard Duties) and Indee-Anna Cumming (Trainee Salesperson).

All staff have accepted positions with Traction Ag, continuing in their current rolls. Trevor will stay on for a while to assist with the changeover to Traction Ag.

“Our current staff have been wonderful in their dedication and support, particularly since the untimely passing of Stephen Mark. Our thanks to all past staff members for their immense contribution as well.”

A family-owned Wimmera machinery dealership strengthen its position industry, further expanding in South Australia.

Traction Ag Pty Ltd Mark Machinery at Naracoorte, company’s footprint from Mallee right through Coonawarra region in Traction Ag was founded

6 Brougham Street NHILL Phone: 03 5391 1144

Wimmera farm dealership is continuing to position in the agricultural expanding its operation Australia.

Ltd has purchased Top Naracoorte, expanding the from the Wimmera and to Mt Gambier and the in South Australia founded in 2014 by Peter

Blair, a well-known Wimmera farmer, upon the purchase and merger of Irwin Motors Horsham and Robin’s Ag at Nhill, continuing to support the long history of AGCO brands in the Wimmera of Fendt, Massey Ferguson and Gleaner.

Mr Blair also operates a commercial seed and niche grain export business and is a long-term owner of Fendt, Massey Ferguson and Gleaner products.

He has benefited from the performance of the brands and high-quality support to his business.

Traction Ag general manager Vince Carbone said the business had been looking for opportunities for further growth and the acquisition of Naracoorte presented a perfect fit.

“The acquisition of Top Mark is a great opportunity to extend our footprint into a diverse agricultural region, combining our experience with the knowledge that is already in the Horsham and Nhill businesses,” he said.

“We are excited to be able to bring the region the strength and customer benefits a larger

Wimmera family-owned business Traction Ag expands your Machinery Specialists

dealership network provides and are looking forward to bringing these benefits to our new customers and ensuring uninterrupted support during the transition.”

Mr Carbone has extensive experience with Traction Ag, starting as a service technician.

Prior to joining the business, in April 2020, he was the area sales manager for AGCO, sharing great knowledge of the AGCO product line.

Traction Ag Naracoorte

8 Deviation Road NARACOORTE

Phone: 08 8762 0955

Trevor Pfeiffer hands over the business to Traction Ag’s general manager Vince Carbone.

Premiership team: Back, from left, Kristin Bowen, Jodie Grigg, Alarna Proffit, Sacha McDonald, Lavinia Fox, Carlee Feder and Jessica Junor; middle, Sarah Burgess, Hayley Campbell, Nashira Lees, Morgan Coventry, Asher Grapes and Shannon Freeman; and front, Jasmine McIntyre, captain Emily Burgess, coach Sarah Domaschenz and Charlotte Henderson.

LAVINIA FOX SACHA

more! more!

Premiership team: Back, from left, Tom Conheady, Brait Headon, captain Anthony Close, Simon Close, Tyson Berg, Mitchell Grant, Josh Dawson, coach Jai Thompson, Michael Close, Stuart MacFarlane, Noah Hildebrand, Peter Staude and runner Larry Leeming; middle, Will Burbury, Dalton Burns, Ethan Appleton and Greg Hamilton; and front, runners Aaron McDonald and Peter Shrive, Nick Pekin with children Blake, Jack and Tex; James Staude, Callum Hobbs, Matt Jones, William Plush and bench coach Grant Little.

PEKIN

more! more!

Chinese EV ‘onslaught’

TheEuropean intentions of Chinese car makers is clear judging by the number of ‘Middle Kingdom’ brands and models at the recent Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung, IAA Mobility, in Munich.

The expo, which has morphed from its motor show roots in Frankfurt to a more environmentally acceptable festival for all forms of mobility, showed clearly Chinese-made cars are here, and here to stay.

The irony of such an occurrence can hardly be ignored because Germany is the epicentre of European automotive manufacturing and is increasingly under a cloud from inflation and marginboosting price increases, suffocating supply chain problems and rising energy costs following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, among other things.

As if in reply to the penetration of China by European brands, Chinese automakers were in the thick of it with a myriad and far cheaper electric vehicles targeting European buyers.

Some suggest the expo marked the start of a Chinese ‘onslaught’ on the European market.

Continental Chinese EV sales rock-

eted by nearly 55 percent to about 820,000 vehicles in the first seven months of 2023, making up about 13 percent of all new car sales.

Seven Chinese brands attended, including BYD, Dongfeng, HiPhi, Leapmotor, MG, Seres and Xpeng, while two Geely brands, Smart and Polestar, showed models built in China.

Notable absences were Nio and Aiways, along with some other front-line brands, but adding Tesla into the mix more than takes their place.

BYD

The Tesla rival rolled out a full range of models for Europe that included the launch of the Seal mid-size sedan and the Seal U mid-size SUV. These were joined by the previously shown Han large sedan and Tang large SUV, the Atto 3 compact SUV and the Dolphin compact hatchback. The manufacturer also introduced its sub-brand Denza, a joint venture with Mercedes-Benz focussed on the Denza D9, a sevenseat luxury van.

Dongfeng

Dongfeng is making a move into Europe after joint ventures with Honda, Nissan, Renault and Stellantis, among others. It used the IAA Mobili-

ty for the official launch of the U-Tour V9 MPV, the Leiting, the Youting and T5 models. Additionally, a teaser for the brand’s first all-electric sedan was revealed at the event.

Hiphi

The premium EV ‘start-up’ debuted its Z model while out at Munich Airport. It had the X and Y models on display along with a smaller mid-size sedan with gullwing rear doors.

Leapmotor

Another Chinese ‘start-up’ with potential European carmaker JVs including VW, which wants to use a new

NEW CAR STOCK ARRIVING –

platform developed by Leapmotor for a Chinese Jetta. Stellantis is also in the JV picture with the T03 minicar. Leapmotor used the show to launch its C10 SUV.

MG

MG is Europe’s leading Chinese brand and used the show to display its highly anticipated Cyberster fullelectric sports car. Other vehicles displayed were the MG4 Electric XPower, a high-performance variant of the compact EV and the MG Marvel R, an all-wheel drive, high-performance version of the electric SUV.

Seres

Owned by mobile phone company Huawei, Seres showed two models it is selling in Europe, the Seres 5 midsize coupe SUV and the smaller Seres 3 crossover.

Xpeng

With strong VW financial links, the company displayed the P7 mid-size sedan, which it has just started delivering in Europe. The G9 mid-size SUV, was also on display and available for test drives through the streets of Munich.

– Peter Barnwell

PUZZLes

Sudoku

DAILY CONVENTIONAL CROSSWORD 15 X 15 GRID W

Quick Workout

Quick Crossword

Crossword

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

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

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: 11 words

FOCUS Very good: 18 words

Excellent: 32 words

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.

Note to Editor: Created in QUARK XPRESS. VER.4.03 Items not needed for publication can be erased as each is in a separate text box.

YESTERDAY’S

Join the Dots Spot the 5 Differences

What is this? Find out by joining the dots.

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

Distributed by Knight Features

on this Day

1. Collectively, what are Femminello, Eureka, Interdonato, Verna, Meyer, Kutdiken, and Lisbon?

2. The descendants of what royal couple occupy the thrones of Belgium, Denmark, Luxembourg, Norway, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom?

3. What famous Australian-born Hollywood star, renowned for his swashbuckler roles in the 1930s and ’40s was married to Lili Damita, Nora Eddington and Patrice Wymore?

4. Historical records suggest Isaac Newton was the first person to propose that Earth was an oblate spheroid and was correct. What does this mean?

5. True or false? Some flowers make colours that cannot be seen by humans.

6. What pigment is responsible for making plants look green?

yoUr LUcky stars With kerry kULkens

^ARIES: (March 21-April 20)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 8, 9, 4, 5

Lotto Numbers: 8, 4, 13, 24, 34, 41

Be cautious not to overpromise in your relationships to avoid potential problems. It’s an excellent time to offer support to loved ones who may be relying on you.

TAURUS: (April 21-May 20)

Lucky Colour: Orange

From The Weekly Advertiser archives: September 12, 1998 –Horsham shoemaker Barry Lattanzio is helping continue the legend of Australian shoe and clothing company R.M. Williams. A boot designed by Mr Lattanzio and sold under the name ‘Wimmera’ features in the R.M. Williams 1998-99 catalogue and another of his designs is also destined for sale under the famous R.M. Williams name. Mr Lattanzio shows progress on one of his boots to R.M. Williams representative John Nield in his workshop.

10 years ago: September 11, 2013

The Nationals’ Andrew Broad remained ‘cautiously optimistic’ early this week that he would become the Mallee representative in the new Federal Parliament. Mr Broad, a clear winner in primary votes during last week’s election, joined Liberal counterpart Chris Crewther in waiting for preference votes before rubber-stamping the result.

Five years ago: September 12, 2018

Horsham Regional Livestock Exchange leaders have celebrated the sale of the centre’s 10-millionth sheep, in less than two decades. Sheep and lambs have been sold at the Burnt Creek saleyards every Wednesday since opening in December, 1999.

One year ago: September 14, 2022

Wimmera-led research will shine a light on the cultural and structural reasons for gendered differences in workforce participation in public sector roles. Federation University’s Future Research Centre, in Horsham, is one of five recipients of funding from the Commission for Gender Equality in the Public Sector.

FIVE-DAY forecast

7. What is an animal that eats animals, and doesn’t get hunted by other animals?

8. The United States used what type of aircraft to drop an atomic bomb on the Japanese city of Hiroshima during the final stages of the Second World War? What was the aircraft’s nickname?

9. American folk hero Davy Crockett, the subject of legend, myth and movies, was a real person who died at the Alamo during the Texas Revolution. He was also a politician, representing which American state in the United States House of Representatives?

10. Many of us use the Helvetica typeface when working with computers. It comes from the Latin reference for what country?

BC. Max Miedinger and Eduard Hoffmann at the Haas Type Foundry in Switzerland developed the typeface in 1957.

from Italy across the Alps to the Rhine, defeated the Helvetii people in 58

B29 Bockscar dropped a second atomic bomb on the city of Nagasaki.

9. Tennessee. 10. Switzerland. Julius Caesar, in controlling strategic routes

8. It was a Boeing B29 Superfortress bomber named Enola Gay. Enola Gay Tibbets was the mother of the pilot, Colonel Paul Tibbets. Another

7. An apex predator sits at the top of the food chain, and has no natural predators.

6. Chlorophyll is the pigment responsible for photosynthesis and it powers this process by absorbing red and blue light. This means it reflects green light back into our eyes.

5. True, many pollinators, such as bees, can see colours that humans cannot, such as ultraviolet colours. To attract these pollinators, many flowers have -ul traviolet patterns on their petals.

4. It means the Earth is a sphere that is squashed at its poles and swollen at the equator.

3. Errol Flynn.

2. Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom and Christian IX of Denmark.

1. Varieties of lemon.

Answers:

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 8, 9, 5, 6

Lotto Numbers: 8, 13, 15, 23, 36, 44

Exercise care with your finances during this period and think twice before spending. You may feel disappointed by someone you’ve depended on for a long time.

GEMINI: (May 21-June 21)

Lucky Colour: Peach

Lucky Day: Sunday

Racing Numbers: 3, 5, 6, 7

Lotto Numbers: 1, 14, 23, 34, 45, 2

Seek expert advice before signing any legal documents or contracts. Resolve any domestic crises before making important decisions.

CANCER: (June 22-July 22)

Lucky Colour: Silver

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 8, 9, 4, 5

Lotto Numbers: 7, 8, 34, 42, 21, 11

Your business and financial prospects are looking up, with more opportunities for increased income. Surround yourself with positive influences, as negativity won’t serve you well.

LEO: (July 23-August 22)

Lucky Colour: Violet

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 9, 5, 6, 7

Lotto Numbers: 9, 24, 31, 33, 36, 4

You may need more effort to achieve your desires in a special relationship. Prioritise your health and address any concerns you’ve been worrying about.

VIRGO: (August 23-September 23)

Lucky Colour: Apricot

Lucky Day: Sunday

22

A friend might play a key role in introducing changes to your daily routine. If you’re contemplating a change of heart, consider all aspects before deciding.

LIBRA: (September 24-October 23)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 5, 7, 8, 2

Lotto Numbers: 4, 6, 23, 31, 11, 19

Express your feelings openly and avoid withholding information during this period. Be vigilant about machinery-related issues to prevent complications later.

SCORPIO: (October 24-November 22)

Lucky Colour: Fawn

Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 2, 6, 3, 4

Lotto Numbers:

38

This is a prime time to blend business with pleasure and ensure important information reaches the right people. Reaping the rewards from past efforts is now within reach.

SAGITTARIUS: (November 23-December 20) Lucky Colour: Blue Lucky

A person or news from your past may disrupt your daily routine. Travel plans could be postponed due to unforeseen circumstances, requiring more careful planning.

CAPRICORN: (December 21-January 19)

Lucky Colour: Pink

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 7, 3, 4, 1

Lotto Numbers: 1, 6, 12, 25, 34, 41

An irresistible offer could come your way unexpectedly. Prepare for more work than anticipated, as your interests are set to benefit.

AQUARIUS: (January 20-February 19)

Lucky Colour: Yellow

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 1, 6, 2, 4

Lotto Numbers: 1, 15, 23, 31, 11, 19

Avoid being overly pushy, as it might alienate people from your plans. A softer approach will yield better results, and your talents will shine if you act wisely.

PISCES: (February 20-March 20)

Lucky Colour: Brown

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 7, 3, 4, 1

Lotto Numbers: 1, 16, 23, 35, 41, 22

Exploring new hobbies will take you out of the house frequently. Don’t neglect your existing friends, as your new interests may consume much of your time. Wearing beige could bring you luck when you’re out and about.

_ ` a b c d e f g h i

Classifieds

Birthdays

90th Birthday

Herb Warrick

Please come and celebrate with Herb on Sunday, September 17 between 1.30-5pm at 1 Wicklow Drive Horsham Please NO gifts

90th Birthday

Herb Warrick

Wishing you a very happy 90th birthday Dad/Poppy. Love from Maree, Brett, Dylan, Tahlia, Ella & Paige.

death notices

CROSS (nee Johnston), Michelle Lee

Passed away on September 6, 2023 aged 56 years.

Dearly loved wife of Anthony.

Loving mother and mother in law of Riley; Dylan & Taylah; Cody & Imogen.

Now At Peace

CROSS, Michelle

In loving memory of our dear friend and neighbour, may you rest in peace Shell.

Condolences to Anthony, Riley, Dylan and Cody.

Love from the Cameron Road North Campers and Jill.

GRIFFIN, Norman Charles

Born 1st December 1935

Passed away 3rd September

2023

Age 87

Dearly loved son of Charles & Alice Griffin (both dec).

Loving husband of Terry.

Loved father and father in law of Warren & Mandy; Charles & Tracey; Grant & Tiffany.

Brother to Margaret (dec), Robert “Bunny” (dec), Nancy and Betty (dec).

Grandfather to Josh, Sean, Nick, Ben, Declan, Tom, Sarah and Harry.

Great Grandfather to April and Alexander.

Love never ends for it lives in our hearts forever

GRIFFIN, Norman Charles

Passed away peacefully at the Alfred Hospital Melbourne surrounded by family on September 3.

My husband of 62 years. Normie, happy cruising in the sky.

I will have beautiful memories of you as time goes by. Terry.

GRIFFIN, Norman Charles

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Norman Charles Griffin, father of Warren, father-in-law of Mandy, Grandfather to Sean, Nicholas and Benjamin.

We will miss his Dad jokes, the caramel jersey lollies, the next cup of tea and the footy and weather discussions.

We would like to thank everyone for their support, particularly that of our mother Terry. Rest in peace Dad, love you.

GRIFFIN, Norman Charles

Born December 1, 1935. Passed away September 3, 2023. Aged 87. You were taken away from us far too soon and our lives will never be the same.

You will be forever in our hearts and in our memories

Poppy Norm.

Dearly loved by Charlie, Tracey, Josh, Lauren, Declan, Sara, April and Alexander.

GRIFFIN, Norman Charles

Passed away peacefully September 3.

Farewell to my brother Norman.

Fond memories of family times together.

Your loving sister, Nancy.

GRIFFIN, Norman Charles

Passed away surrounded by family on September 3.

Loving father and father-inlaw to Grant and Tiffany.

Treasured Pop of Tom and Harry.

We will miss greatly your love, humor and footy club history lessons.

Cheerio for now Dad

Love Grant, Tiffany, Tom & Harry

WILSON, Bronwyn Lois

19 5.1952 - 10.9.2023

Loved and loving granddaughter of Perc & Ada Jones (both dec) Loved niece of Millie (dec), George & Joy, Merelyn & Tom, cousin of our families.

WILSON, Bronwyn Lois

19 5.1952 - 10.9.2023

“Our Bron”, Forever in our hearts.

Uncle George, Aunty Joy, Ellen, Rick & Lisa, Cynthia & Lynton, Chris & Lisa, Riona & Cameron, & Families

WILSON,

Bronwyn Lois

On 8-9-2023, aged 71 years Bronwyn you will be forever missed.

You were such a beautiful, generous soul with a crazy, hilarious sense of humor.

You left us with so many special memories.

Dearly loved niece of Marelyn and Tom, loved and loving cousins of Michelle, Jamie, Alex, Dane, Chloe, Keagan and Abby, Fiona, Steve, Ben, Mia, Sam and Carrie, Archer (dec), Delilah and Eden, Warren (dec), Naomi and Mark.

“Don’t mind you either”

CROSS (nee Johnston), Michelle Lee

The Funeral of Michelle Lee Cross will leave St Michael & John’s Catholic Church, Horsham on Monday, 18 September 2023 after a service commencing at 1pm for the Horsham Lawn Cemetery.

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member

GRIFFIN, Norman Charles

The Funeral of Norman Charles Griffin will leave St John’s Anglican Church, Horsham on Friday, 15 September 2023 after a service commencing at 1pm for the Horsham Lawn Cemetery.

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member

Funeral Directors

Thank you

~ MAYBERY ~ James

The family of the late James Maybery, wife Lois, sons Lyle and Dean and families would like to thank all those kind gestures and help with Jim’s funeral as well as cards and flowers that people gave.

Thank you

~ ROMANO ~ Giovanni (John)

The family of the late John Romano wish to extend their thanks to all who helped and for the support given. And to all who gave flowers, sent messages, cards, phone calls, and for all the food that was dropped off. Thanks to Wimmera Funerals for all the arrangements and to Fr Matt Restall for the service and the parish ladies who volunteered. Please accept this as our personal thanks.

Tina, Marisa and Michael.

Animals & Accessories

1 Chocolate mini Dachshund, female, vacc, vet checked, m/ chip# 953010006162922 $2500 each, located in Nhill Ph 0431725487

Black faced Dorpers joined $140 each Ph 0429912620

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

German Shepherd puppies, great temperament, toilet trained, straight, two boys and two girls, source# MB115424, m/chip# F 95301000661546, F953010006610248, M953010006610331, M95301000661015145 Ph 0421018631

Goats Boer and boer cross from $100 each Ph 0427361940

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

Born 14/7 due for pick up 8/9, vet checked, m/ chipped,vacc and wormed source# MB131530, m/chip # 985141006234027/26985 141007305210/17 $1000 Ph 0429821171 Horsham

Kildare Border Collies now have a litter of purebred puppies for sale at $1,800, 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.

Labrador pups, 2x chocolate, 4x black, mix sex, great natured, mchip# 96000015967567/802 076/970033/65574/801447/9 69196 source# M6227250 Ph 0418519231

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

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

Purebred Cocker Spaniel puppies , black and gold, DOB 19/06/2023, ready in a few weeks, vet checked, vaccinated, etc, Microchip no 956000014851219, 956000014847574, source no RV185238 Ph 0429912620

Roosters, ducks and guinea foul wanted Ph 0469740723 Salami pigs wanted Ph 0481864397

Sheep agistment available at Kewell, accommodate approx 130-140, feed wall advanced Ph 0427895097

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

2000 Jayco Freedom pop-top caravan, tandem, Engel upright fridge, 12v system with inbuilt battery charger and solar kit, island d/bed and brand new mattress, light weight, easy to tow $17,900ono Ph 0400894020

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

2011 Toyota Hilux SR 3ltr turbo diesel, dual cab, manual, 4x4, 1OH9HK $24,000 neg Ph Tom 0417218872

Airia, Fstyle, Mandolin with hard case, EC $300 Ph 0413207022

REDUCED Yamaha CLP330

Wanted, Land to Lease or Share-Farm anywhere south of Horsham, from 100 acres to 700 acres, cropping country preferred Ph Roger Hallam at Mockinya 0418822700

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 conditio, serviced regularly, 254,221 kms, WVR283, $16,000 Ph 0448504021 Stawell

2015 Audi A3 Attraction , style and technik package, auto, heated seats, front and back sensors, 17’ alloy wheels, 68,000kms, one owner, perfect condition 1DB 9YP $28,000 Ph 0400961401

Clavinova Digital Piano, EC, great sound and feel, includes stool $2000 Ph0428894232

Student Cello and Bow $500 Ph 0427712331

Design & Construction of Elmhurst

WTP Solar and Battery System

2015 Mazda CX-5 Maxx Sport 4x4, 6spd diesel with tow pack, regular servicing, smoke and pet free car,rego 1GG3IO,126,000kms, $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, 6months rego, 300,000kms, N4372 $14,000 Ph 0407084235

2015 Hyundai FE, SUV, 2.2, 2 way diesel, towbar, full service history, excellent condition, rego 1FFSO,1,70,000

Contract Number: C01265

Tenders are invited for the Design and Construction of Elmhurst WTP Solar and Battery System.

The Contract scope of works includes:

> Detailed design of solar and battery system;

> Supply and installation of solar and battery system;

> Coordination with Water Treatment Plant construction contractor for integration with Water Treatment Plant PLC and SCADA

An optional Microsoft Teams meeting will be held 10 am Tuesday 19 September 2023. To register for this meeting please contact Senior Process Engineer, Carl Haby on 1300 659 961. More information regarding this tender is available from the Buying for Victoria website, www.tenders.vic.gov.au. Enquiries may be directed to Carl Haby.

Tender closes: 2 pm, Wednesday 27 September 2023

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

Mark Williams Managing Director

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

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 $15,000ono Ph 0437164589

VW Toureg 2011 180 TDI auto, silver, one owner, good service history, one of few with low range transfer, centre & rear diff locks, no towing done, VGC, new tyres, RWC, reg till 2/24, YVD520 $17,500 Ph 0428528990

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.

11 McLachlan Street Horsham Call: 1300 659 961 (business hours) info@gwmwater.org.au | gwmwater.org.au

Chlorinator Unit Servicing and Maintenance

Contract Number: C01187

Tenders are invited for the servicing and maintenance of chlorinator units at nominated water treatment and disinfection plants across GWMWater’s operational area.

These services are to be carried out on a yearly basis for a period of three years, as per the conditions outlined in Contract No. C01187.

The Contract scope of works includes:

> Servicing of chlorinator units

> Servicing of chlorine analysers

> Servicing of chlorine gas detectors

> Servicing of chlorine weigh scales

> Servicing of chlorine dosing units

More information regarding this tender is available from the Buying for Victoria website, www.tenders.vic.gov.au. Enquiries may be directed to Miles Norton, Manager Planning and Scheduling on 1300 659 961 during business hours.

Tender closes: 2 pm, Thursday 28 September 2023

2009 GLX Landcruiser

Prado, 4x4 manual, diesel, 7 seats,1 owner full service history, 244932 klms, colour dune, EXTRAS UHF radio, headlight/ bonnet protectors, driving lightsrear air bags, 2nd battery, long range fuel tanks, new tyres 99%, snorkel rubber floor mats, roadworthy supplies, rego XAH807 until march 24 $ 24,500 Ph 0428972044

GWMWater reserves the right to accept tenders 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.

11 McLachlan Street Horsham Call: 1300 659 961 (business hours) info@gwmwater.org.au | gwmwater.org.au

6’ slasher or similar Ph 0419007741

Wooden wool table cane wool basket, rabbit traps and yabby copper Ph 0400017344

Louis

The wonders of Creation delight and inspire. And point to the glory of the One Who Created it all. So often we take things for granted. The Bible tells us how Creation began, through the inspiration, power and creativity of God. The intricacies and complexity, the delight and wonder, the network and the “Web of Life” which all depend on each other, take our breath away.

The story tells us, “In the beginning”, humans were set at the heart of creation to walk with God and care for Creation. When we are in harmony with God, so comes harmony with each other and the world. This can inspire us to look after the world and for each one of us to do what we can. May we all do whatever we can, to care for this beautiful world, and may we, too, give God glory and praise for the wonders God has created.

Susan Pearse - Baptist & Uniting Church, Hopetoun and Rainbow.

CCN seeks happiness for lonely country people

We help lonely country people in finding their friend, soul mate and romantic partner .

CCN specialises in introducing couples the old fashioned way, the only way that assures a high rate of success.

To find your special partner please call 1800 261 848 or 0488 200 554 No computer required. Seniors welcome.

Unscheduled Council Meeting

Horsham Riding for the Disabled Association RDA

Annual General Meeting

Tuesday, September 19, 2023

6pm for meal, 6.30 start Sports & Community Club

Horsham Ladies Tennis Association

is seeking new players of all ages & abilities for their Term 4 competition.

Played at Central Park on Mondays, 12pm to 3pm, commencing on October 2

Friendly competition, fully secure courts & play area (children welcome)

For more information or to register, contact Di Rudolph on 0400 525 247 by Monday, September 25.

• Located at Horsham, District 17

• Fixed Term (ends 16.2.2024), Full Time

• $71,597 pa (plus 11% super) PTA 3

This exciting administration role will involve coordinating day to day administration tasks including reception duties, finance administration, data entry and record keeping, minute taking and responding to face to face, phone and email queries with professionalism and prompt follow up.

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: 21 September 2023 (11:59 pm).

Classroom Teacher Positions

St. Patrick’s School, Nhill

Applications are invited from suitably qualified teachers, including graduates, for full time, fixed term, classroom teaching positions commencing on 29 January 2024.

Applicants must embrace a spirit of working in partnership with colleagues, students and parents in an exciting learning environment.

We are eager for enthusiastic teachers who display excellent teaching skills to join our wonderful school community.

The successful applicant will -

• Possess the skills and abilities necessary to provide students with a rich and rewarding educational experience and will embrace a collegial, team-based approach to teaching and learning.

• Be appropriately qualified, demonstrate enthusiasm and ability to deliver the appropriate curriculum to a range of educational abilities, and be able to provide care and support for students whilst supporting and respecting the ethos of the school and its environment.

• Have a demonstrated commitment to Catholic education and to the safety and wellbeing of children.

• hold or be seeking to hold Victorian Institute of Teaching Registration.

For a position description and application form visit www.spnhill.catholic.edu.au or email principal@spnhill.catholic.edu.au

This school community promotes the safety, wellbeing and inclusion of all children.

Applications Close: Monday, 9 October 2023, 4pm

Situations Vacant

Opportunity to join our

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

We Are Recruiting New Board Members. This is a perfect for you if you:

• Care about having a vibrant, healthy and connected sporting community

• Believe in strengthening relationships

• Enjoy being part of passionate, dynamic and engaged team

• Can give your time and expertise

• Are over the age of 18

Contact David Berry for more information

Ph 5382 4599 E eo@wrsa.org.au

GWMWater is an innovative and progressive employer committed to contributing to the sustainable growth of communities within the Grampians, Wimmera and Mallee regions.

Water Services Operators

Grampians (Ararat)

• Position number VG/5105B

▪ One role available: 1x Fixed Term 12 months

Wimmera (Horsham)

• Position number VG/WSOH

▪ Two roles available: 1x Ongoing, 1x Fixed Term 12 months

We are seeking three Water Services Operators to join our Grampians and Wimmera teams, with opportunities to work in other parts of our region from time-to-time.

Our operators enjoy a fast-paced environment, responding to reported faults and service interruptions to maintain essential water and wastewater services to customers.

We

$47.50 per hour

Contact: Sarah Sargeant

Closing: 12pm Monday 18 September 2023

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

Opportunity This Way

Cleaner - Riverside Holiday Park, Dimboola

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.

be someone making a difference for people in your community

Employment Opportunities

**Attractive salary packaging in addition to salary** See our website for further information

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

$32.21 to $36.00 per hour

Aboriginal Health Development Worker

22.8 hours per week

$32.21 to $36.00 per hour

Customer Engagement Officer

22.8 hours per week

$32.01 per hour

Contact: Kristy Price

NDIS Mental Health Support Worker

30.4 hours per week

$32.21 to $36.00 per hour

Contact: Danny O’Brien

Case Manager Perpetrator Family Violence

22.8 hours per week

$32.21 to $41.52 per hour

Contact: Gemma Beavis

Case Manager Aged Care

$36.00 to $41.52 per hour

Contact:

Please contact Mick Henderson, Manager Assets and Facilities, on 03 5391 4444 for enquiries. Applications close Wednesday 27 September 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 www.hindmarsh.vic.gov.au/work-in-council

The successful applicant will gain significant work experience in a dynamic team. They will also be provided with on-the-job training and participate in the on-call roster.

If you enjoy working with your hands in the great outdoors, problem solving and contributing to the liveability of your community, please get in touch.

To apply online, please visit: gwmwater.org.au/careers

Applications close: Friday 22 September 2023

GWMWater contact:

Ollie Reynolds, People Talent and Culture Officer

Graduate Engineer - Dams and Structures

Position number VG/4101A

As the Graduate Engineer - Dams and Structures you will assist in guiding the delivery of all aspects of dam safety management.

You will be responsible for determining capital works requirements to ensure compliance with standards, develop and manage monitoring and reporting programs and maintain manuals and emergency plans for dams and related assets.

If you are looking for an opportunity to gain experience across a broad range of dam safety activities and build a career in a supportive and dynamic organisation, then we want to hear from you!

This is a permanent, full time role.

To apply online, please visit: gwmwater.org.au/careers

Applications close: Friday 29 September 2023

GWMWater contact:

Ollie Reynolds, People Talent and Culture Officer

GWMWater is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to providing flexible working arrangements to enable the right candidate to be successful.

To receive information in relation to this vacancy in an accessible format such as large print, please contact our People Talent and Culture team on 1300 659 961.

Subscribe to receive GWMWater job alert emails by visiting gwmwater.org.au/careers

Mark Williams Managing Director

Senior Coaching Positions Available

The Warrack Eagles Football & Netball Club Inc. are looking for passionate & dedicated individuals to be involved in the Club for 2024 in the following capacities.

Senior Football Coach Reserves Football Coach

A Grade Netball Coach

B Grade Netball Coach

C Grade Netball Coach

The successful candidates will have the ability to lead, develop and expand our football and netball squads to achieve their full potential. Interested parties are to submit an application in writing to warrackeagles@gmail.com by Friday, September 29, 2023.

For more information please contact Paul Rowe on 0457 826 265 or Jules Phelan 0448 564 353.

WIMMERA REGIONAL SPORTS ASSEMBLY

Club Support Manager

Full Time

The Wimmera Regional Sports Assembly has a full time position available for the right person to fill the Club Support Program Manager role.

Funded by Sport and Recreation Victoria, the Club Support Program aims to support grassroots sporting clubs and communities. The WRSA’s role is to support volunteers to ensure they are growing their clubs, in inclusive and family friendly environments, and they have basic capacity to promote participation that drives active and healthy lifestyles.

Hey there! Are you a logistics expert in search of an exciting job opportunity? Look no further!

We have a fantastic job opening for you as a Freight Dispatch Specialist. This role requires you to utilize your organizational skills to the fullest. Additionally, you will be assisting in the manufacturing of our products and performing general duties as well.

To be a successful candidate, you must possess strong organizational skills, excellent communication abilities, and have a knack for problem-solving. Some of the key responsibilities include managing distribution and shipment budgets, coordinating and scheduling shipments, communicating with drivers and carriers, tracking deliveries, and resolving any logistical issues that may arise. You will play an integral role behind the scenes, ensuring everything runs smoothly and providing top-notch service to our customers. This position also allows you to help manufacture our products and perform general duties within the factory.

FULL-TIME HOURS 40

Send your CV and cover letter to:

jock.baker@smallaire.com.au

This opportunity closes on Monday, October 2, 2023.

16B

5381 1375 horshamblindman@ bigpond.com

If you want to join the HRCC team and serve our diverse, close-knit, and engaged local community, check out the roles below!

Coordinator Strategic Planning

• Band 7 ($99,415 - $111,122 per annum) or Band 8 ($115,457 - $129,254 per annum)

Permanent Full-time or Part-time

Senior Statutory Planner

• Band 7 ($99,415 - $111,122 per annum)

Permanent Full-time or Part-time

Coordinator Performance & Events

• Band 7 ($99,415 - 111,122 per annum)

• Permanent Full-time or Part-time

Youth Programs Officer

• Band 5 ($37.15 per hour)

• Fixed Term Part-time (0.6EFT, until 31 December 2024)

Flexible working arragements are available for all positions advertised above

To apply for this job go to: hrcc.recruitmenthub.com.au

If you are the right person you will be responsible for the delivery of the Club Support Program and support other WRSA programs including Regional Sport Partnership (funded by VicHealth) and other projects as they arise that will benefit the WRSA and community sporting clubs.

Position Framework

a) Full time position – 38 hours per week.

b) Wage is based on the Social Community Home Care & Disability Services Industry Award 2010 (the Award) and the National Employment Standards (NES) are the minimum terms and conditions for this position - Social and community services employee level 3 pay point 1 (depending on experience and qualifications).

c) An Assembly vehicle is available for work related travel.

d) Position is located at the WRSA Office, 22b Pynsent Street Horsham.

e) Starting date – October-November 2023.

f) The Assembly is an equal opportunity employer.

The key objectives of the program are:

The Club Support Officer position will be responsible for the overall design and implementation of the Wimmera physical activity & active recreation program plans; these include:

• Program coordination and delivery

• Provide administrative support to the Team Leader related to the delivery and reporting on the Community Sport program work plan

• Support the Team Leader to develop, report and work within the program budget

• Assist in developing, building and maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders throughout the life of project to assist in ensuring stakeholders are fully involved and engaged in the program through high quality professional communication

• Work with clubs and community organisations to generate participation and physical activity opportunities for a diverse range of people

• Identify key issues, service gaps, and service development opportunities.

Applications are invited for the position by completing a covering letter and addressing the Key Selection Criteria listed on the assembly’s website: www.wrsa.org.au.

Applications should be emailed to David Berry, Executive Officer Wimmera Regional Sports Assembly eo@wrsa.org.au by September 30, 2023.

From these applications interviews will be scheduled for mid-October 2023 with the successful applicant to start in the position by October-November 2023.

Training a new generation

BY TONY LOGAN

RT White raceway in Ara-

rat was host to a Harness Racing Victoria pony trot training day on Sunday.

Program co-ordinator Jenni Lewis said participants received expert tuition in a safe environment, practicing control and patience while developing pony welfare racing skills.

“The kids go on to race their ponies across the state throughout the year, competing for trophies, rugs and prizes and are regularly interviewed after their races,” she said.

“They are part of the excitement of real race days, often at country cup meetings and feature night at Melton.

“We combine the fun of training and driving with media experience, integrity, fairplay, personal presentation and animal welfare.”

Eyethink in running

Horsham horseman Aaron Dunn has the chance to add another Vicbred Super Sires final title to his CV when he lines up at Tabcorp Park, Melton on Saturday with four-year-old gelding Eyethink in the prestigious $150,000 contest.

Dunn combined with Bondi Lockdown to capture the threeyear-old C and G final in 2021 and judging on Eyethink’s impressive

semi-final success at the weekend, looks to have the one to beat in this year’s group one.

Dunn bullied his way to the head of affairs in the first 300 metres of the race, steadied the tempo with a 61-second middle half before releasing the brakes to scoot home in 55 seconds and a cruisy 10-metre victory.

It was Eyethink’s sixth-consecutive win and takes his record to 11 wins, six minor placings and $115,620 in prize money from 20

starts. Stablemate Hot Deal, Jackie Barker, ran on strongly along the sprint lane to finish third and join Eyethink in the final.

While Dunn is no stranger to group one racing, it will be a different experience for Horsham owner-trainer Justin Lane when he saddles up four-year-old gelding Swizzlestick in the same final.

The lightly-raced son of A Rocknroll Dance USA and Muckinbar Lady, with Kerryn Manning aboard, earned its ticket with a

Winners galore

Winners were everywhere for Wimmera trainers during the past two greyhound meetings at Horsham, including a pair of doubles – one for Andrea Gurry and the other the Fullerton team.

SKILLS DEVELOPMENT:

Great Western reinswoman

Kerryn Manning, back left, and Harness Racing

Victoria pony trot training program co-ordinator

Jenni Lewis with participants, Ebony Mason, Bella Mason, Quinn Hunt and Gemma Peacock.

Picture: HRV PONY TROTS VIC.

terrific effort, coming from last, three-wide at the 600m and covering plenty of ground around the home turn.

Manning also qualified threeyear-old filly Surfingmakescents for the final in her division on a night that was dominated by the powerful Emma Stewart stable.

The Cardigan juggernaut geared up 34 starters through 11 of the 12 semis on Saturday night for nine winners and seven minors, qualifying 27 for the weekend’s finals.

Gurry’s maiden Idyllic Point was the first of her winners at Tuesday’s meeting.

Idyllic Point positioned up second early then railed hard to go away to win by a length in 23:77sec.

Extremely then took out the last race on the program for Gurry, of Nhill, bringing up the winning double in close to a mirror image run of Idyllic Point, positioning up second then running over the top of the early leaders and winning by just over a length in 23:50sec.

On the same card, Garry George, Beulah, and Ian Bibby, Warracknabeal, both struck when Glow for George pinged straight to the front, opening a big margin and then withstanding a strong challenge to win by a nose in 23:53sec.

Orson Fury for Bibby was a super run in the 485m, beginning well and when the naturally strong dog positioned up second on the corner, the race was as good as over. Fury went home close to a two-and-a-half length winner in the good time of 27:32sec.

Horsham raced again on Friday and it was team Fullerton of Red Cliff’s with a winning double, with litter mates Gifted Blazer and Elite Blazer.

Gifted Blazer sat second early then railed hard to turn in front and go home a strong winner in 23:48sec. Elite Blazer was required to come from midfield and showed great race sense on the corner, pushing through into second and then on straightening was far too strong, going to the line winning in 23:76sec.

Gurry again tasted victory when Suttons Sky was victorious on Friday, after winning at Warrnambool on Monday. Warnambool was a nice 22:39sec victory and Horsham an easy watch, fininishing in 23:60sec.

This week the club runs an extra meeting on Friday with the first race about 11.45am.

– Peter Carter

HORSHAM SAINTS FOOTBALL & NETBALL CLUB

football

13-AND-UNDER: Pimpinio 20 defeated Harrow-Balmoral 15. Best on court, Ruby Williams, Pimpinio

17-AND-UNDER: Pimpinio 40 defeated Kalkee 36. Best on court, Amalie Brown, Pimpinio.

C RESERVE: Edenhope-Apsley 37 defeated Noradjuha-Quantong 35. Best on court, Bree Stonehouse, Noradjuha-Quantong.

15-AND-UNDER: Kalkee 21 defeated Pimpinio 27. Best on court, Abbey Williams, Kalkee.

C GRADE: Noradjuha-Quantong 45 defeated Pimpinio 19. Best on court, Tashana Meyer, Noradjuha-Quantong.

B GRADE: Kalkee 26 defeated Natimuk United 25. Best on court, Melissa Beddison, Kalkee.

HDFNL graND FiNaLs

Back-to-back for perfect Saints

BY ABBY WALTER at Quantong

Edenhope-Apsley defended its A Grade netball premiership title with a 10-goal win against Laharum in Saturday’s Horsham District grand final.

The win ensured the team had a perfect season – remaining undefeated.

Edenhope-Apsley coach Sarah Domaschenz said it was ‘amazing’ to achieve a back-to-back A Grade premiership.

Last year was the club’s first A Grade netball premiership since it formed through amalgamation in 1999.

Domaschenz said it would have been difficult to pick a best-on-court player.

“Everyone did their role, they adapted well to the situation, weather and the game,” she said.

Domaschenz credited EdenhopeApsley’s 2023 success to team unity.

Captain Emily Burgess said she was ‘super proud’ of her team.

“It was very stressful up until the final whistle, but we were calm and our first three centre passes were good, which set us up well for the rest of the game,” she said. “This year has been all about growth for us. We built on what we started last season and we have developed as individual players and as an A and B grade squad.”

The Saints started the game quickly and, from the first centre pass, were getting the ball to tall target Sacha McDonald in the goal ring.

Edenhope-Apsley’s pressure forced several turnovers in the first quarter, allowing them to build a narrow lead.

Maddie Iredell scored the first goal for Laharum and the intensity of the game lifted, as did the crowd.

The Saints were able to capitalise on many turnovers throughout the quarter with strong, fast passes and good combinations across the court.

Towards the end of the first quarter, Laharum began to increase pressure on the Saints and forced more turnovers, allowing for a one-goal margin into the first break.

Two cautions were given in the first quarter — one to Laharum goal keeper Rebecca McIntyre and one to McDonald.

The beginning of the second quarter involved more back-and-forth between the goal rings.

Laharum used the opportunities when Saints defender Shannon Free-

man left the goal ring to pass long into shooter Caitlin Story.

Edenhope-Apsley remained composed and hard work from wing attack Hayley Campbell into the pocket and onto the goal ring allowed for strong passes into McDonald, who was well positioned on the baseline.

By half-time the Saints’ quick ball movement and finding space allowed them to establish a 10-goal lead.

Laharum co-coach Olivia Jones said the team spoke at the start of the game about not affording to give EdenhopeApsley the opportunity to jump ahead.

“We probably had a five-minute rough patch in the second quarter and against a quality side like EdenhopeApsley, you can’t have that,” she said.

“It blew out to 10 goals early in the second and the end margin was 10, so it showed we were with them in the second half.

“It’s a credit to the team as everyone did their role, from shooter to keeper.”

Jones said the whole season had been exciting across the competition.

“Finals came down to percentage to get into the top six and we were waiting until the last round to see who would be in contention,” she said.

“We were lucky enough to secure second spot to have a second chance, which meant we could play Edenhope-Apsley twice.

“You want to be playing the best teams as much as you can, but there

was incredible talent across all teams this season.”

At half-time Edenhope-Apsley switched Burgess from goal defence to goal keeper and Freeman from goal keeper to goal defence. Sarah Burgess went into centre and Kristin Bowen swapped with her into wing defence. Laharum made no position changes. Light rain began during the third quarter and the intensity lifted as Laharum sought to reduce the margin.

Story was working well in the goal ring and for a majority of the quarter, the teams went goal for goal — although neither team was making it easy, with multiple turnovers during most centre passes.

Laharum reduced the margin to seven going into the final term and Sarah Burgess and Bowen switched back to their initial positions.

Edenhope-Apsley scored the first goal of the final term and did not look

to be slowing down.

The physicality of the game increased as the time ticked down and the Saints made the most of opportunities created through intercepts taken by Emily Burgess and Freeman.

The speed of the game decreased as more contacts occurred and it was going goal for goal once the Saints had increased the margin back to 10 goals.

The excitement was clear from the Edenhope-Apsley team and their supporters and the final whistle was hard to hear over the cheering.

Other grades

The A Grade premiership concluded a significant day for the Saints, who also won their first C Reserve netball premiership.

After finishing third, Edenhope-Apsley fought through every final to make it to the big dance and won by two goals against Noradjuha-Quantong.

Saints’ stalwarts, Wendy Cryer and Carolyn Middleton, took the court as goal shooter and centre, respectively.

The pair has played more than 1000 games between them and has now won a premiership in every senior grade for their club.

In C Grade, the Bombers were too strong for Pimpinio and won by 26 goals. Noradjuha-Quantong moved the ball effectively to its goalies and did not concede many opportunities to score.

The B Grade game was low-scoring between Kalkee and Natimuk United, as both teams fought hard for a win.

Kalkee came back from being one goal behind at most breaks for a final push to take home the premiership by one goal.

In the 17-and-under game, Pimpinio overpowered Kalkee by four goals to win a back-to-back premiership.

The Tigers led in the first quarter and maintained their lead for the rest of the evenly-matched game.

Kalkee won the 15-and-under grand final by four goals against Pimpinio after a close game, where the teams went to-and-fro on the scoreboard.

Pimpinio won the 13-and-under grand final against Harrow-Balmoral by five goals.

The low-scoring game was a tough contest and both teams were able to secure a lead throughout the game. However, a big final quarter push from the Tigers saw them take the premiership home.

DIRECT: Hayley Campbell, Edenhope-Apsley, was a crucial link in the Saints’ transition into their attacking third at Quantong on Saturday.

Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

EFFORT: Laharum co-coach Liv Jones sets her vision for a long pass into her team’s goal ring during Saturday’s grand final.

HDFNL graND FiNaLs

GOT

Southern Roos ‘stoked’

BY SEAN O’CONNELL at Quantong

It was a physical game early, with two hard hits coming in the opening minutes that would set the tone for the rest of the game.

Harrow-Balmoral playing-coach Jai Thompson said grand final opponents, Jeparit-Rainbow, had not made it easy for his team to run away 20-point winners in the Horsham District league premiership decider on Saturday.

“Credit to them — they had done their homework and they brought a good brand of footy. It was a tough, physical game,” he said.

“If we hadn’t had those little patches when we got ahead and kicked a couple of goals, anything could have happened.”

In the Southern Roos’ three-quarter time huddle, Thompson was rapt with the pressure his team was able to exert to pile on five goals going into the last stretch of the game.

“That momentum swing really got our game going and once we got to that last quarter, we knew we could just hold on,” he said.

“That pressure is so important. It just sets up everything for us, if we can limit their ball use going forward.

“In that second quarter, they started getting that ball use a lot, and that’s why I was really proud of that third

quarter. We just came out with a different attitude, pressured the footy and really cut down on their run and that was a massive turning point.”

Thompson said Michael Close’s best-on-ground performance, in which he went forward after leading goalkicker Simon Close went down injured, was built off a strong team defensive effort.

“Tyson Berg being able to float back and play on Peter Weir was a super role for him to play,” he said.

“I thought the backline was super all day. Josh Dawson held his own against their quick forwards.”

Jeparit-Rainbow co-coach Scott Driscoll said he was proud of his team’s efforts in an historic grand final appearance – it’s first since entering Horsham District league – and he hoped to build on it next year.

“Just 10 minutes of bad football in the third quarter, against a quality team, has the ability to bring you unstuck,” he said.

“To Harrow-Balmoral’s credit, when we dropped, they stepped up and that was the difference.”

Driscoll said the result was a good turnaround after the Southern Roos beat his team comfortably in the second semi-final only weeks ago.

“To get within 20 points after going down by 80 is a huge effort and we

genuinely believed, as a side, we had the capabilities to go all the way,” he said.

“We had a couple of injuries, guys putting themselves on the line, and I think we are all walking-wounded, but the boys pushed through the pain barrier and we are really proud of what we are able to achieve for the community.”

Thompson said he was ‘stoked’ to come away with a premiership in his first season as a senior coach and first season with Harrow-Balmoral.

“They’re such a good group to coach and they made everything so easy for me,” he said.

“They accepted all my new stuff that I brought with me, took it on board and ran with it.

“I’ve gotten to know them through the community as well and we are just really good mates and we’ve done this all the way from November together.”

Southern Roos player Callum Hobbs was another who played in his first premiership on Saturday, after travelling home from Geelong each weekend during an injury-plagued year.

“It’s been a pretty long year, individually, but Jai’s been great, kept me involved on the bench and I’ve travelled home all year to help out,” he said.

“I’ve snuck in for the last portion

Are you looking for a career change or are semi-retired and would still like some flexible work arrangements?

after an early-season injury – so it’s awesome and I’m stoked.”

Other games

The under-14s grand final between Kaniva-Leeor United and NoradjuhaQuantong was a thriller. The Bombers clinched the match with not long left to run away one-point victors in a home premiership.

Fredrick Frew, who was named beston-ground, starred for Pimpinio as it triumphed against Natimuk United in

Spring Gardening Tips

the under-17s. The margin the Tigers were able to build in the first threequarters was enough to withstand a late surge from the Rams.

In the reserves, the message at Noradjuha-Quantong’s three-quarter time huddle was that desperation would secure the side a second home-ground football premiership for the day.

The Bombers finished 17-point winners against Harrow-Balmoral’s seconds, who were unable to match the seniors’ result.

to contact us. We’re here to keep you moving so you can enjoy your gardening.

CAUGHT: Jakob Cocks and Xavier Oakley, Jeparit-Rainbow, restrict HarrowBalmoral’s Josh Dawson during Saturday’s grand final.

HIM: Jeparit-Rainbow’s Antonio James in hot pursuit of Harrow-Balmoral playing-coach Jai Thompson.

Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

CRASH LAND: Lucas Edelsten, Jeparit-Rainbow, attempts to gain possession of the ball on a wet afternoon at Quantong.

Hawks hang on in close

BY SEAN O’CONNELL

The top team all year has prevailed in the Mininera and District league grand final, after overcoming a late scare.

Tatyoon coach Zac Tunbridge said all the hard work had paid off as his team came away premiers against Woorndoo-Mortlake at Conna Wilson Reserve, Mininera.

Tunbridge said the 14-point final margin reflected how Woorndoo-Mortlake came back after his team comfortably led for much of the contest.

“We played really well for the first three quarters and went into the last break almost six goals up,” he said.

“They came out really hard and had all the play.

“We stemmed the flow and defended well.”

The Hawks coach said his team’s efficiency in front of goal, kicking 10 goals and only two points, was influential in the result.

“We’ve actually had a lot of trouble this year kicking straight,” he said.

“We went away and worked on our set shot goal kicking in the last two weeks and it has paid off.”

Tunbridge said ball movement was another element that allowed his team to get on top and find high-quality shots on goal.

“I think we were really composed and moved the footy well,” he said.

“Generally, we can be quite methodi-

cal, but we went in trying to move it quickly to utilise our tall forward line.”

Tunbridge said his team’s pressure across the whole ground had been strong, preventing Woorndoo-Mortlake from exiting its defensive fifty as well as missing shots at goal.

“One of the main focuses was to push them wide to have shots from poorer positions,” he said.

He said his backline had been strong on the day, with Jay Anderson and Jack Fraser both playing well on their match-ups.

“Josh Bibby at centre-half back has been intercept marking all season and nearly pulled off the mark of the year,” he said.

Tunbridge said Anthony Rosato also had a really strong showing on his way to claiming the VCFL medal, while Andrew Browne came away with the Jim Night Medal, for best-on-ground performances.

He said the premiership win was all the better for last year’s grand final loss to Ararat Eagles.

“We were very disappointed with how last year ended, especially being blown away in the last quarter,” he said.

“There was a lot of hype that we were the favourites, but we knew internally it wasn’t going to be easy.

It’s a credit to Woorndoo-Mortlake for never saying die – they got it to a point where they might have won it.”

REWARD: Tatyoon senior footballers celebrate a premiership triumph against Woorndoo-Mortlake on Saturday, going one better than last year’s grand final to finish 14-point winners. Picture: TRACEY KRUGER

Basketballers win selection

Five Horsham Basketball Association under-14 basketballers have won selection for an upcoming 2023 Gold Nugget Camp.

Country Victorian athletes were selected from this year’s academy program, with 275 girls and boys invited to attend the camp at Ballarat Sports and Events Centre.

Aiden Reinheimer, Chavi Sulic, Lani King, Ruby Bethune and Rani Potter will attend from Horsham.

The camp will take place on Wednesday next week for the boys and Thursday for the girls.

The top players at the camp will be picked for selection to the 2024 Australian Country Junior Basketball Cup and Southern Cross Challenge.

Horsham basketball coach Cam Bruce said the players put in a lot of time and effort to qualify for selection.

“They had to accumulate more than 20 hours of training, so we did two hours every Sunday at the stadium and they also had to spend time during the week shooting,” he said.

“It builds a lot of their independence and skills.”

Bruce said the camp was the next stage for the basketballers in moving towards earning selection to play for Victoria.

“From here they could be selected to represent Vic Country at the under-14 levels and that’s just the beginning for the potential to move to under-16 and under-18 levels,” he said.

“They’re a talented group of players with good character and it’s great to have a big group from one regional town attend.”

Rebels teams eliminated

Greater Western Victoria Rebels boys’ and girls’ seasons came to an end at the weekend after losing elimination finals.

The Rebels boys secured a second-place finish in the Coates Talent League at the end of the home-and-away season and the wildcard round.

After a closely contested first three quarters against Geelong Falcons, it was anyone’s game leading into the final term.

The Falcons were able to slow the Rebels down and did not allow them to score more than three points in the fourth quarter while kicking three goals.

The final score was Rebels 9.11 (65) to Falcons 13.5 (83). Horsham Saints’ export Joel Freijah had nine disposals, while Rupanyup export Connor Weidemann and Minyip-Murtoa’s Oscar Gawith were also among Sunday’s team.

The Rebels girls finished ninth on the ladder and faced Dandenong Stingrays in an elimination final.

The Stingrays proved too strong and kept the Rebels to one point for the game and won with a final score of 9.11 (65). Horsham Demons’ export Olivia Brilliant had 11 disposals for the game.

CHANCE: Horsham junior basketballers, from left, Chavi Sulic, Lani King, Rani Potter, Ruby Bethune and Aiden Reinheimer, with their coach Cam Bruce, celebrate selection to attend the Golden Nugget Camp in Ballarat next week.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Top honour shared

BY ABBY WALTER at the vote count

year and I should thank all my teammates for giving me the ball.”

Ararat’s

Jake Robinson and Stawell’s Tom Eckel are Wimmera league’s 2023 joint Toohey Medallists after a vote count on Monday night full of anticipation.

Both senior footballers finished the season with 20 votes apiece. Frazer Driscoll, of Nhill, was runner-up with 19 votes and Brody Pope won best under-21 with 11 votes.

Ararat’s Tom Williamson polled the highest votes for the season with 22 votes, however, due to suspension he was ineligible to win the award.

Robinson said he was ‘very surprised’ to win the medal, which is named after former league administrator P.J. Toohey.

“I was lost for words. I just expected to come for a good night and maybe poll a few votes here and there,” he said. “To walk away with the award makes me very proud.

“I put in the hard work earlier in the

Robinson is now gearing up to take on Southern Mallee Giants in Saturday’s grand final.

“I’m going to enjoy it as much as we can and, hopefully, we can get up and have a win – that’s what we play footy for,” he said.

Robinson played his juniors at Ararat and apart from a few years in his early 20s, has played most of his senior football with the club, too.

“I’ve played football since I was young and I love getting around the boys and playing footy on my weekends,” he said.

“Ararat is a good club with a great atmosphere.”

Eckel has finished second in the best-and-fairest vote count on four occasions, and in 2023 was able to take home the major award.

“I’ve been close on many occasions, so this is a proud moment,” he said.

“Although I thought this was one of my worst seasons in five or six years, I

Down to final round

In a vote count that went down to the final round, Horsham Saints A Grade netballer Abby Hallam has been crowned the Heather Hatcher Medallist for 2023.

Hallam won the Wimmera league best-and-fairest award with 29 votes, ahead of Nhill’s Ellen Bennett who was runner-up with 27 votes.

Holly Ross of Dimboola won the best under-21 award with 19 votes.

Hallam said she did not expect to walk away with the Hatcher medal at Monday night’s vote count.

“I cannot believe that I won the league best-and-fairest. It is a pretty surreal feeling,” she said.

Hallam plays goal attack for the undefeated Saints and will take the court in Saturday’s grand final against Horsham in Dimboola.

“This season has been really exciting. I am really proud of my team and what we have achieved this year,” she said.

“I am looking forward to what Saturday will bring and hopefully we can finish the season off the way we have played all year.”

Hallam said she played most of

her juniors at Noradjuha-Quantong in the Horsham District league before starting to play for Horsham Saints when she moved into the 17-and-under competition and has played there since.

Hallam was joint best under-21 winner in 2022, with Ross.

Hallam said she had enjoyed playing with her team this year, which motivated her to take the court each week.

“There’s a great bunch of people here and I have good friends, so they keep me coming back each season,” she said.

Horsham Saints’ Jorja Clode won leading goal shooter for the season with 668 goals.

In B Grade, Horsham Saints’ Zeena Kelm won best-and-fairest with 22 votes.

Runner-up was jointly awarded to Horsham’s Brianna Luciani and Horsham Saints’ Holly Combe, with 21 votes.

Samantha Cook of Stawell was leading goal shooter with 518 goals.

Stawell’s Courtney McIlvride won the C Grade best-and-fairest with 22 votes, ahead of Horsham’s Janelle

do set myself high standards. For me, this is more about the club – the club puts in a lot of hard work, so to win a Toohey Medal for Stawell is bigger than just me.”

Eckel has played at Stawell his whole football career, apart from one season when he played in Adelaide. He has coached the Warriors for five years and is planning to continue in the role in 2024.

Eckel said country sport was ‘good fun’.

“I enjoy the social element of the club and what else would you rather do on a Saturday afternoon than play footy,” he said.

Horsham Saints’ Mitch Martin won leading goal kicker with 55 goals.

Stawell’s Wes Illig was awarded a life membership to the league.

In the reserves, Tim Bone of Nhill Tigers won the Hank Neil Medal as best-and-fairest with 17 votes, narrowly edging out Horsham Saints’ Gavin Kelm who was runner-up with 16 votes.

PROUD: From left, Wimmera Football Netball League 2023 senior runner-up best-and-fairest Frazer Driscoll, Nhill, joint best-and-fairests Thomas Eckel, Stawell, and Jake Robinson, Ararat, and best under-21 player Brody Pope, Horsham. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Ararat’s Zach Louder kicked 62 goals for the season to win leading goal kicker.

Dimboola’s Elliot Braithwaite and Jackson O’Neill, Minyip-Murtoa’s Jae McGrath and Stawell’s Jemma Clarkson were inducted into the league’s 200 club.

Team of the year was Minyip-Murtoa’s Tanner Smith and Luke Fisher; Ararat’s Cody Lindsay; Dimboola’s Sam Godden, Ben Miller and Matt Rosier; Horsham’s Brody Pope,

Ben Lakin and Tyler Blake; Horsham Saints’ Jacob O’Beirne, Patrick Knott and Gage Wright; Nhill’s Frazer Driscoll and Lucas Dahlenburg; Southern Mallee Giants’ Billy Lloyd and Angus McSweyn; Stawell’s Jackson Dark, Sean Mantell, Tom Eckel and Jarrod Stafford; and Warrack Eagles’ Kyle Cheney and Matthew Johns. Smith was named captain and Lindsay vice-captain. Horsham Saints’ Ben Knott was awarded coach of the year.

Junior awards

Wimmera Football Netball League crowned its junior bestand-fairest winners at a vote count in Horsham on Friday night.

In junior football, Patrick Toner of Ararat was named under-17 best-and-fairest with 22 votes and Horsham Saints’ Jack Henry was runner-up with 20 votes.

In the under-14s, Horsham’s Oakley Farr was best-and-fairest with 48 votes with Will Chamings of Ararat runner-up with 32 votes.

Knight who was runner-up with 21 votes.

Mikayla Rethus of Horsham was leading goal shooter with 509 goals.

Georgia Baker-Miller of Horsham Saints won C Reserve best-and-fairest with 20 votes.

Michelle Clarkson of Horsham finished runner-up with 15 votes.

Baker-Miller and Clarkson won joint leading goal shooter honours with 298 goals.

Horsham Saints won championship club for the season and Emma Man-

sfield of Warrack Eagles was named volunteer of the year.

Team of the year was Ashlee Grace and Clode of Horsham Saints, Steph Thomson of Southern Mallee Giants, Lisa Fleming of Stawell, Ellen Bennett of Nhill and Georgie Carberry, Romi Miller, Marnie Lehmann, Ebonie Salter and Imogen Worthy of Horsham. Grace was named captain and Salter was named vice-captain. Horsham’s Tiffany Hier was named coach of the year.

– Abby Walter

In junior netball, Jorja Clode of Horsham Saints was the 17-and-under best-and-fairest by the barest of margins with 19 votes, while Ava Koschitzke of Warrack Eagles polled 18 votes to finish runner-up.

Lena Marshman of Horsham Saints was the 15-and-under bestand-fairest winner with 36 votes, and Alana Graveson of Stawell, with 24 votes, was runner-up.

Horsham Saints’ Olivia Taylor was 13-and-under best-andfairest with 27 votes, ahead of teammate and runner-up Ruby Bethune with 25 votes.

HONOUR: Wimmera league A Grade best-and-fairest Abby Hallam of Horsham Saints, centre, with runner-up Ellen Bennett, Nhill, left, and Holly Ross, Dimboola, best under-21 player. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Perfect seasons on the line

13-and-under: Horsham Saints v Stawell, 8.20am

Stawell clambered into the grand final from a fourth-position finish on the ladder to secure a grand final appearance, while Horsham Saints flew in with a semi-final win and near-perfect home-and-away season.

The Saints have been victors both times the teams met during the season. Lani King and Ruby Bethune performed well for the Saints in their earlier final, while Stawell’s Olivia Hunter and Ruby Nicholson were key to their team’s win on Sunday.

15-and-under: Horsham v

Warrack Eagles, 9.25am

Horsham finished the home-andaway season undefeated, while Warrack Eagles finished third and faced a challenge in every week of finals to be one of two teams standing on the final day.

The Eagles are yet to beat the Demons this season and Horsham was too strong in the semi-final by 17 goals. Zarli Knight and Lexy Wade played well to secure the Demons their grand final berth, while Macie Nitschke and Amalee Livingston were strong in the preliminary final for the Eagles.

17-and-under: Horsham Saints v Horsham, 10.30am

Horsham Saints have been a cut

above the rest throughout the 2023 season and Horsham has one final opportunity to cause an upset.

The Saints were undefeated and Horsham only lost two games, both to the Saints.

Maddison Bethune and Cara Tippet were standouts for Horsham Saints during the second semi-final. Knight and Sienna Walsgott proved their strength for Horsham during Sunday’s preliminary final.

B Grade: Horsham v Horsham Saints, 1.15pm Horsham Saints will look to turn the tables on Horsham as the only team the Saints have lost to during the season.

A six-goal margin secured the Demons the first grand final spot, while a close tussle until the final quarter in the preliminary against Minyip-Murtoa had Saints locked in to face their cross-town rivals.

Holly Combe and Shannon Cross played well for the Saints on Sunday, while Brianna Luciani and Lauren Etherton showed why their team was undefeated with good performances in the second semifinal.

Grant kuchel

Football: Southern Mallee Giants by nine points

Best-on-ground: Billy Lloyd, Southern Mallee Giants

Netball: Horsham Saints by four goals

Best-on-court: Ash Grace, Horsham Saints

Football

Under-14s

Horsham v Horsham Saints, 8.30am Horsham survived the home-and-away season undefeated and soared through the second semi-final with a 65-point win to secure the first grand-final berth. Dylan Seymour and Henry Walsgott were top performers for Horsham in the victory. Horsham Saints secured second position by percentage but showed their strength during finals with impressive football from Lachlan North and Frazer Shurdington during Sunday’s preliminary final.

Under-17s

Horsham v Horsham Saints, 10am

The cross-town rivalry continues as Horsham, undefeated, aims to conclude the 2023 season in perfect fashion. The Saints will be hungry for second semi-final redemption. Jeremy Kemp and Harry Driller were crucial for the Demons in their win during the team’s only finals appearance so far this season. William Slatter and Levi Munyard worked hard for the Saints to defeat Ararat and secure another chance to take on Horsham.

to secure the second spot in the grand final.

Horsham defeated Stawell by seven goals in the second semi-final.

teams dropping one game each to the other throughout the home-andaway season.

Reserves

Ararat v Horsham, noon

C Grade: Horsham v Stawell, 2.40pm

Horsham survived the homeand-away season undefeated and Stawell fought through every final

daryl eastwell

Football: Ararat by 18 points

Best on ground: Jack Ganley, Ararat

Netball: Horsham Saints by three goals

Georgie Hobbs was instrumental for Horsham in the win, while Madi Freeland and Courtney McIlvride have had strong finals performances for Stawell.

C Reserve: Horsham v Horsham Saints, 3.45pm Horsham and Horsham Saints are in for a close game, with both

Horsham was too strong in the second semi-final and won by three goals.

Madeleine McQueen and Ava Fitzgerald were key to the Demons’ win, while Annie Mintern and Georgia Baker-Miller have been playing well during the finals series for the Saints.

Our pert tips

THE SHIRTFRONT

Football: Ararat by 10 points

Best-on-ground: Jake Robinson, Ararat

Netball: Horsham Saints by 12 goals

Best-on-court: Jorja Clode, Horsham Saints

Horsham clawed its way through three elimination-style finals for a chance to take on Ararat in the big dance. A top-ofthe-table finish for Ararat saw the team land the first position in Saturday’s grand final at Dimboola. Aaron Pianta and Kobe Davis played well for the Rats in their win. Horsham overpowered Minyip-Murtoa by 52 points to secure the second grand-final position with solid performances from Josh Mibus and Deek Roberts.

GRAND FINAL 2023 Wimmera Football Netball League

abby walter Brought to you by Local Football Live Grand final edition from noon on

Football: Ararat by 17 points

Best-on-ground: Tom Williamson, Ararat

Netball: Horsham Saints by four goals

Best-on-court: Jorja Clode, Horsham Saints wfnl chair

THE SHIRTFRONT

Hugh Dougherty

Football: Southern Mallee Giants by seven points

Best-on-ground: Rupert

Sangster, Southern Mallee Giants

Netball: Horsham Saints by four goals

Best-on-court: Ash Grace, Horsham Saints

Best-on-ground: Jack Ganley, Ararat

Netball: Horsham by two goals

Best-on-court: Georgie Carberry, Horsham THE WEEKLY ADVERTISER

EYE: Jorja Clode is an integral shooter in the Horsham Saints’ 17-and-under team, which will look to defend an undefeated season.

WFNL graND FiNaLs

Player profile

Romi Miller

Horsham’s Miller is ready to embrace the opportunity her A Grade team has this weekend to play in a grand final two seasons in a row.

Miller played juniors with the Demons and was among last season’s runner-up premiership team.

She said the squad was excited to be part of the final football and netball day of the season.

“It’s a really good opportunity to be playing in an A Grade grand final,” she said.

“We have had a solid year this year and to play on Saturday is a credit to what we have been able to achieve and we deserve to be there.”

Miller is a versatile player who, while in the midcourt recently, has played most positions apart from shooter this season. She said the team was looking to play its brand of netball come the big dance.

“I played in last year’s grand final and I think the chance for a rematch against Horsham Saints will be good,” Miller said.

“Our focus will be on our game and we want to do the best we can, put on a good show, play our netball and, hopefully, we come out with the premiership.”

Miller said the season’s highlight was playing with a good group of players who got along well.

“There are a lot of jokes at training and we all have the same sort of mindset in that we want to have fun, but we also want to win,” she said.

“My favourite part of netball is the social aspect – it is a good team sport, it is not about yourself and I like that you play for each other and play for the club.”

Miller said she wished all competing teams luck and was looking forward to a nice day for sport.

“Bring it on,” she said.

Brought to you by Local Football Live Grand final edition from noon on

High standard across grades

Across Wimmera league netball grades, even teams aiming to defend an undefeatedseason status will face close battles in Saturday’s chance for a premiership.

Wimmera league chairperson

Pauline Butler said the tough games ahead were indicative of the strength of this season’s competition in junior and senior grades.

She said the weather forecast was setting up the biggest day of the year for the league to be an exciting one.

“We hope a lot of people will come out and enjoy some sensational football and netball,” she said.

“After last year’s wet, windy and miserable day, we are expecting everyone to come with sunnies, hats and sunscreen this year.”

Ms Butler said the standard of A Grade netball this year was high.

“We have had two standout teams in Horsham and Horsham Saints who most would have predicted would play in this year’s grand final,” she said.

“However, to have Nhill, which didn’t field a team last year, Stawell, which didn’t make finals last year, and Dimboola, which only played one final last season, in the top five

AWARDED: Wimmera Football Netball League announced its 2023 A Grade netball team of the year during presentations at Horsham Golf Club on Monday. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

was sensational. It goes to show the competition is going from strength to strength, year on year.”

Ms Butler said with the quality of netballers in the two grand final teams she was expecting a close game at Dimboola.

“Horsham is riddled with injuries, however they have depth to their team that will make it a good contest,” she said.

“Horsham Saints have been the team to beat all year and will be hard to knock off.”

In B Grade, Ms Butler said there were three teams with a good chance to make a grand final berth.

“It’s been a close finals series so anyone could have been there in the end and I’m expecting it will be a close game between Horsham and Horsham Saints at the weekend,” she said.

“In C Grade, it will be another close game – Horsham just has an edge against Stawell, but it will be a toss of the coin who wins and will depend on the day.

“Horsham and Horsham Saints have been the two best teams in the C Reserve competition this season, so I will expect another close game.

“The Demons have had an edge throughout the year, but only by a couple of goals.”

In the junior competition, Ms Butler said it would be a hard ask for Horsham to get the jump on Horsham Saints in 17-and-under.

“Saints have strength right across the court and have had a stranglehold on the competition all season,” she said.

“Horsham has improved throughout the season and has come close, but the Saints are likely to be too strong.

“In the 15-and-under competition between Horsham Saints and Warrack Eagles, we expect another close one.

“The Eagles proved throughout the finals they are a force and the Saints are also a strong team, so it could go either way.

“Horsham Saints have been too strong for the rest of the competition in 13-and-under this season.

“With depth, and the best-andfairest and runner-up in their team, Stawell has a challenge ahead against the Saints — the team to beat.”

Strength in its versatility Pressure or motivation?

The Weekly Advertiser asked Wimmera Football Netball League chairperson Pauline Butler to step into the shoes of Horsham’s A Grade coach to give a perspective on the upcoming grand final game.

Depth and versatility: Horsham has strength in its depth of players across its line-up. There are multiple players who can play multiple positions when they are needed. Having versatility in a team is a good thing going into Saturday. The Demons’ attacking end is also a massive strength when they gel together. Georgie Carberry in wing attack is key to creating drive and feeding into the ring. With some injuries, it is likely the defensive end will lack some height against the Saints’ goalies, however, Jedda Heard can stand up to that as can Casey Rentsch and Romi Miller.

Hungry for the win: After finishing runner-up last season, Horsham is hungry to take home a premiership. In last year’s grand final the Demons started to come back, but after the Saints had an early lead, it was too late to peg it back. The wet weather had an impact, too. Horsham thrives in dry weather, so Saturday’s forecast of 24 degrees should suit. They are a fit line-up so should be able to run out the game in the heat.

Limit attack: Against the Horsham Saints, the Demons will need to limit Jorja Clode’s impact on the game in the goal ring and Megan Byrne’s impact through the midcourt. Shutting down the Saints’ attacking end will give Horsham a better chance for a win. Their transition from defence to attack needs to be a force.

The Weekly Advertiser asked Hugh Dougherty of 3WM’s The Shirtfront to step into the shoes of Horsham Saints’ A Grade coach to give a perspective on the upcoming grand final game. Ball movement: The Saints’ strength lies in their quick ball movement. The Saints have two offensive creators in Ash Grace and Megan Byrne who can create a lot of scoring opportunities for any goalie.

Back-to-back: Thinking about whether or not the opportunity for two premierships in a row is motivation or more pressure, it comes down to the opponent. If this game was against any other team, it would likely create more pressure. However, the chance to knock off your cross-town rivals

two years in a row is a great motivation and will push the Saints.

Winning difference: Horsham Saints’ defence, in Rory Doran and Erin Mellington, has done a great job at making a lot of shots difficult for goalies. To combat Horsham, the Saints’ main focus should be on Demons star shooter Georgia Batson, to make every shot as difficult as possible. Composure: Something that could mean the difference between coming home with a premiership from Dimboola, or not, will be in the team’s composure on the court and on the bench as well. The Saints will need to make all their shots count and make the right moves at the right time to defend their premiership title in 2023.

Rivals ready for rematch

It’s a rivalry. It’s a rematch. It’s a premiership battle.

Horsham Saints and Horsham will meet for the fourth time this season to determine who is the ultimate A Grade netball team in 2023.

The Wimmera league grand final at Dimboola on Saturday will see the two teams come to rematch the 2022 grand final.

The cross-town rivals last met in the second semi-final when the Saints were victorious by five goals.

In round two, the Saints beat Horsham by four goals and in round 11 by six goals.

Saints coach Jessica Cannane said it was exciting to be able to defend the 2022 title.

“We finished the season undefeated and won the semi-final, so we were able to enjoy another week off,” she said.

“We always know when we come against Horsham, it will be a tough game — and a close one.”

Cannane said it was the day where all the work at the start of the season and during the year would pay off.

“It’s nice to have the competitiveness with Horsham and respond with a good quality team,” she said.

“We’ve reflected on the close scores and know we can weather the storm and play our brand of netball.”

With five netball teams playing on Saturday, Cannane said the week off should not affect the A Grade players.

“Our court play and training has been similar to what we have done all year,” she said.

“Because we could continue to play against quality, we haven’t missed a beat.

“We are in the privileged position to have been undefeated, and for three of our 17-and-under players, who are also undefeated, to be part of the squad.

“It shows the future of our netball is strong.”

Horsham played in every week of finals, and a strong showing at Nhill on Sunday proved why they would fight for a chance at a premiership.

Horsham coach Tiffany Hier said it had been the Demons’ plan all season to be in the final game of the year.

“We knew the preliminary final was going to be tough – Dimboola is a quality side,” she said.

“We’ve had a tough run and are severely injured, so I’m proud of the players who have worked hard to get where they are.

“It’s good to have versatility and we are going to need it again on Saturday more than anything.”

Hier said the close semi-final result showed what a spectacle people would be in for during the A Grade grand final.

“The margin was only five goals, so it’s only a bit more than one goal a quarter,” she said.

Horsham demons

GS: Georgia Batson

GK: Erin Mellington

GA: Imogen Worthy

GD: Rory Doran

WA: Georgie Carberry, captain

WD: Jessica Cannane

FiNaLs

Player profile

Coach Tiffany Hier

Int: Maddie Bethune, Rori Marshman, Elly Barnett, Sophie Taylor

C: Romi Miller

C: Ashlee Grace, captain

Int: Marnie Lehmann, Ebonie Salter, Kealy Pope, Zarli Knight, Lexy Wade

Erin Mellington

Upon returning to her home club for season 2023, Mellington has become a staple circle defender for the Horsham Saints.

Mellington said it was a good year to return to Saints and she was looking forward to hitting the court in a grand final with her team.

“It’s been fun playing with a new group and to go through the season undefeated was also great,” she said.

WD: Grace Manserra

WA: Megan Byrne

GD: Casey Rentsch

GA: Abby Hallam

GK: Jedda Heard

GS: Jorja Clode

“Who doesn’t love playing in a grand final? It’s always exciting and the energy on and around the court is always good.” Mellington last played for Horsham Saints about eight years ago, but had not been far away, playing for Laharum in the Horsham District league.

“After being so successful with Laharum but only coming away with one premiership and missing out by two goals last year, I am hungry to win one this season,” she said.

Coach: Jessica Cannane

“We had some unlucky things and they did, too. It’s just what happens on the day and we all know grand finals mean anything could happen.

“It will be a good tough game.”

Hier said the team was fortunate to have played in every week of the finals series.

“Last year we didn’t – we came off a bye then played, then had a week off, then played, then another week off, then played – so it was stopstart all the time,” she said.

“This year the continuity has been really good, for the players, too.

“The weather has also been really good.”

The A Grade grand final starts at 11.55am on Saturday at Dimboola Recreation Reserve.

Horsham Saints

“We have been undefeated all year, so we just have to come away with one more win in the last game of the season for the cup.”

Playing in goal-keeper, Mellington said she had the opportunity to play a leadership role on the court.

“From my position, I can observe a lot and provide a strong voice for the team,” she said.

“We have a few younger players on the team, so I enjoy the chance to be a role model. It’s a chance to show them the ropes, so when I finish my playing career, they can keep the glory going.”

Mellington said the Saints were a family club.

“It’s been such a successful year for the whole club and we have the chance to come home with more than one cup, which is fantastic,” she said.

“Netball is a great way to be active, socialise and I like playing in a team.”

“It’s nice to have the competitiveness with Horsham and respond with a good quality team. We’ve reflected on the close scores and know we can weather the storm and play our brand of netball”

– Jess Cannane

*Teams supplied by clubs

WFNL graND FiNaLs

Player profile

Southern Mallee Giants on-baller

Schache is expecting a midfield battle as he prepares to again take on Ararat in this year’s finals series.

Schache said there were nerves and excitement as he prepared for a fourth senior grand final, having previously played in two losing grand finals for the Giants and one premiership.

He said, as well as his own game, he would be looking to use his experience to help out a few of the younger players.

“I spend a bit of time in the midfield and up forward,” he said.

“I look to use my running ability and pride myself on winning the ball, whether that’s inside or outside, and being an even contributor.”

Schache said there had been ‘ups and downs’ throughout the season, but the past month, including the second semi-final win against their grand final opposition, had been positive.

“It’s been pleasing to hit some form and play the footy we know we are capable of,” he said.

“It was one of those games where you walk off the ground and know you have played a game of football – it was really physical and hard at the contest.

“But that’s why you play footy and they will be keen to bounce back.”

Schache said he was ‘loving’ his time at the Giants, having played junior footy at the club before going away for a few seasons and then returning.

“It’s a good club to be involved in. You play for the community. It means as much to the people watching and that’s what drives you,” he said.

He said Ararat was a good match-up.

“We will have to bring our best in all aspects,” he said.

“They went through the home-andaway season undefeated for a reason.”

Exceptional year of footy

TheWeekly Advertiser spoke

to The Shirtfront’s Daryl Eastwell to recap the Wimmera league senior football season and get the key talking points ahead of Saturday’s grand final.

Eastwell said while the two absolute standout teams in the competition would play off in the grand final, it had been an exceptional season all-around.

“Overall, the whole standard has gone up,” he said.

“The Warrack Eagles beating the Giants, albeit with a few injuries, just shows the competition is not that far apart.

“The Dimboola-Ararat game early in the season was another indication of how close the competition was going to be.”

Eastwell said most teams who finished in the top five would have entered the finals series believing they were a chance of coming close to premiership glory.

“Minyip-Murtoa would have liked to finish a bit higher and I’m looking forward to seeing how they go with a new coach next year,” he said.

“I really enjoyed the improvement

out of the Horsham Saints – they have done a fantastic job.”

Eastwell said several players from across the competition had standout seasons, including Ararat forward Tom Mills.

“Tom Williamson is a jet, Ben Taylor is a class act and Jack Ganley has just impressed me so much this

season, all with Ararat. I was also really impressed with Saint Jacob O’Beirne’s year. He is a great young leader, along with Angus Martin, also of the Saints.

“For the Giants, Billy Lloyd is one, Josh Webster for his forward craft and Coleman Schache is a real heart-and-soul of the footy club

player. Down through the ladder, Frazer Driscoll and the Nhill footy club have had an outstanding year and are not too far away from making finals.”

Eastwell said the second semifinal rematch between Southern Mallee Giants and Ararat had been played to a high standard, when compared to the football that is typically played across the region.

“That’s the quality these two teams produce when they at fullstrength,” he said.

“I’m hopeful the grand final dishes up exactly the same.”

Eastwell said the way the 2023 season panned out had led to a number of possibilities to look out for going into next season.

“I’m looking forward to what Horsham can do with a new coach and excited who else they could add to their list,” he said.

“And to see whether the momentum from the Saints’ season can carry into next year.

“My other interest is Stawell. They have had a bit of inconsistency and need to add three or four players to be a real threat.”

Stoppages key to success A battle of the midfield

The Weekly Advertiser spoke to The Shirtfront’s Brian ‘Cobba’ Cassidy on Southern Mallee Giants’ road to the grand final.

Determination: We say it every game, but you have to win the stoppages. The Giants might have an advantage in the ruck with Kieran Delahunty, who should be able to put it in a good place for his midfielders. To get first use in the middle could play a huge part in getting it forward quickly for the Giants. Once they get it in, they have to scramble to keep it. They must not let Ararat kick through them and one way to do that is a full-ground press.

Match-ups at either end: When they are able to go forward, Josh Webster is the Giants’ main target, with Rupert Sangster another goal threat. Otherwise, the Giants tend to rely on their on-ballers’ ability to kick goals. On the flipside, Sam White will pick up Tom Mills in the

Ararat forward line. They will also need to be wary of Tom Williamson, Ben Taylor and Jack Ganley, who can all kick goals from midfield. All the Giants’ defenders have to do is play their role. They will need to be tight on their man, apply pressure and get a fist in when required. Commitment: Southern Mallee Giants will need to run both ways if they are to stop Ararat’s forward movement. The Giants’ midfield will especially need to work back and crowd the Rats’ attacking-50. When they do turn it over, they need to move it quickly and best Ararat’s zone, with hitting kicking targets crucial to achieving this. When they cannot get it out quickly, they must not be afraid to slow it down and hold onto possession. The Giants must make sure they have an even number or even an outnumber at every contest, if they are going to best the Rats.

The Weekly Advertiser spoke to The Shirtfront’s Grant Kuchel about Ararat’s route to the grand final.

Midfield battle: Ararat will be aiming to win the contested footy out of the middle. The Rats will need their bigger bodies, including Tom Williamson, to make their presence known and for Cody Lindsay to win his share of the ruck taps against Kieran Delahunty. I think it is probably a one-on-one battle and whoever can control the midfield is going to dictate the game.

Nullifying the opposition: Against the Horsham Saints, Ararat’s tackle pressure was brilliant and they will need to bring that same intensity against the Giants. Defensively, they will need to make sure the Giants cannot run. Baydn Cosgriff, in Ararat’s backline, will need to

play a shutdown role on Josh Webster, who will have to kick four or five goals if the Giants are to win. They will need to prevent Sam White and Coleman Schache, should he play across half back for the Giants, from carrying the ball out of the backline. Options forward: There are options everywhere for the Rats going forward. Williamson, if he rests forward, can provide a contest. Tom Mills is strong on the lead, while Jack Ganley, in his first game back for seven or eight weeks, kicked seven goals against the Saints on Sunday. Ararat also has the luxury of another tall in Tex Korewha as a get-out target down the line. The Rats also have a slew of midfielders and on-ballers who can get to the fall of the ball. Sonny Kettle, Jake Robinson and Robert Armstrong can all be dangerous given the opportunity.

Coleman Schache

FLYING: Ararat’s Jack Ganley, in action against Horsham Saints on Sunday, will be critical in the Rats’ grand final success this weekend.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

It’s anyone’s game...

Bothteams are primed and ready for a second semi-final rematch that will decide who comes away from the 2023 Wimmera league senior football season as premier.

Southern Mallee Giants enter the grand final having beaten Ararat two weeks prior.

The Rats were, until that point, undefeated.

The Rats bounced back in style, however, sewing up the win early to finish 110-point winners against Horsham Saints in the preliminary final on Sunday.

Giants coach Kieran Delahunty said his team had been able to use its week off to ‘freshen up’ and participated in an extra training session on Saturday.

He said it all ‘clicked together’ in the previous match-up with the Rats at Anzac Park, Warracknabeal.

“I thought we defended really well. Ararat can move the ball well if they’re allowed,” Delahunty said.

He said the clearance battle was another area which his team managed to win in the previous game.

“Our midfielders – that’s one part of our group that has had a lot of continuity,” Delahunty said.

“Those guys have been able to spend a bit of time together and create that synergy.”

Delahunty said this continuity had spread to the rest of the group in the past month and his team was verging on full strength.

“It’s always good to get the timing right. It is all coming together,” he said.

He said while the Rats played well to beat the Saints in the way they did, he took confidence in the second semi-final result.

“They obviously played pretty well on Sunday, but you’ve only to look at the fortnight before that,” he said.

Delahunty said his team’s approach to the grand final was about playing the game on their own terms.

“For us, it’s all about the process — the way we want to play,” he said.

“I’m a big believer in not focusing on the outcome too much.

“If we play the way we want to, the result will take care of itself.”

Ararat coach Matt Walder said reaching a second consecutive grand final was ‘terrific’, with his side planning on doing so for much of the season.

He said it had been an incredible response from his team to follow-up its first loss of the season a fortnight ago with a huge win that earned them entry into the grand final.

“As much as you plan and prepare, to have

Ararat

FP: Robert Armstrong

BP: Liam Price

HF: Jacob Bates

HB: Heath Smith

W: Daniel Mendes

W: Jackson Fisher

FP: Tex Korewah

BP: Toby Fisher

FF: Tom Williamson

FB: Angus McSweyn

CHF: Tom Mills

CHB: Sam White

Player profile

Coach: Matt Walder

Foll: Cody Lindsay, Jake Robinson, Sonny Kettle

HF: Matthew Spalding

HB: Liam Nelson

Inter: Luke Spalding, Thomas Cousins, Brody Griffin, Callum Mendes, Corey Taylor, Alan Batchelor, Riley Taylor, Jack Ganley

Tom Mills

Ararat forward Mills will be looking to get on the end of some expert ball movement if his team is to run away premiers.

Coach: Kieran Delahunty

HB: Liam Arnott

HF: Luke Mahony

Foll: Kieran Delahunty, Mickitja RotumahOnus, Coleman Schache

Inter: Tyler Lehmann, Leigh Stewart, Matt Bellinger, Oscar Smith, Kai Sheers, Tim Sanford, Brayden Carra

BP: Henry Shea

FP: Zach Robins

C: Ben Taylor

C: Billy Lloyd

CHB: Baydn Cosgriff

CHF: Josh Webster

FB: Flynn Toner

FF: Jake Garvey

W: Ethan Summers

W: Josh Bromley-Lynch

HB: Kade Bohner

HF: Lou White

BP: Jake Williamson

FP: Rupert Sangster

Southern Mallee Giants

the game in hand by half-time was something we did not expect,” he said.

Walder said it was his team’s focus on being braver, both offensively and defensively, that led to the result.

“At the end of the day, it was the pride in the group,” he said.

“They wanted to respond in the best way possible.

“There were a number of things we rectified.

“Being braver, a lot more rabid, we suffocated the opposition and our ball use was better.”

Walder said Jake Robinson had been consistent in the Rats’ midfield and Tom Mills had been a strong presence up forward.

“It’s pretty obvious that Jack Ganley was the

game breaker, kicking three goals in the first quarter,” he said.

Walder said the Giants would pose a different challenge, with their pressure likely to be a feature.

He said his team’s execution when kicking and handballing, which was strong against the Saints, would need to be assured against the Giants.

“Once the game was broken open, time and space on occasion could make it easier,” he said. “By the same token, we were able to hit our targets when the game was on.”

Ararat and Southern Mallee Giants will face off at Dimboola Recreation Reserve on Saturday from 2.20pm

Mills said his team wanted to finish the season with a premiership, after an enjoyable campaign which saw the Rats unbeaten throughout the home-and-away season.

He said his primary role at centrehalf-forward was to provide a marking contest and bring the ball to ground for the Rats’ crumbing players.

“I base my game on how many contests I can get to – to be able to halve contests and give the on-ballers an option,” he said.

Mills said ground efforts of roving players Robert Armstrong, Matthew Spalding and Sonny Kettle made his job easier.

He said the Rats’ thumping victory against Horsham Saints in the preliminary final was fine preparation for a second semi-final rematch against Southern Mallee Giants.

“It’s always nice to win by that much,” he said.

“To almost have the game won by quarter time eases the mind a bit. I’d rather that than it be close in the last 10 minutes.”

He said the Ararat forward line, including fellow goal threats Tex Korewha and Jack Ganley, showed a strong understanding in the win.

“Our synergy is pretty good. It’s great to lead out and have trust in the blokes kicking it to you,” he said.

Mills said the previous match-up with the Giants had been a great game, with the opposition’s ball movement and pressure standing out. However, he said his team would look towards its own capabilities leading into the grand final clash. “We have to focus on ourselves more than them,” he said.

*Teams supplied by clubs

sport

Weekdays from noon on

Recognition of Phantoms players

BY DAVID BERRY

Phantoms

Volleyball Club con-

cluded its 2023 season with a presentation night, with Volleyball Horsham members to the fore.

Members representing all associations that feed into the club enjoyed a night of celebration, with most valuable player awards for each grade, scholarship recipients, national and international representation and coach and best club person awards announced.

Ella Van Duren won the reserves two coach’s award following a consistent first season in the black-andpurple.

Van Duren was acknowledged for being a positive team member and for her preparedness to play any role within her team.

Returning to Phantoms after a lengthy break, Mercedes Arnott took out the premier two coach’s award.

Arnott played a variety of roles throughout the season for her team, always prepared to help her younger teammates by providing positive encouragement.

Tamikah Dockrill fought back tears as she accepted her coach’s award for premier one women.

After a tough start, Dockrill showed great resilience and perseverance in the second half of the season and was thankful to her setter, fellow Volley-

ball Horsham member Kara Johnson, for helping her play at a consistent level in the back half of the year.

To top off a great night, Tyler Puls was presented with the most serviceable club person award for his efforts both on and off the court.

The night was concluded with the

Business Law Clerk Traineeship

Horsham

Closing date: September 19, 2023

Requirements:

• Great customer service and phone communication

• General knowledge of administration procedures

• Excellent communication skills

• Adequate keyboard skills to enable efficient data entry

• Microsoft office including word, Excel, Outlook, Internet explorer.

For more information contact Daryl Eastwell on 0407 364 654.

Aged Care Support Traineeship

Stawell

Closing date: ASAP

Requirements:

• Caring & patient individual with passion for industry

• Positive attitude and able to adapt to varying situations

• Physically fit and enjoy being active

• Current National Police Check Clearance

• This role requires staff to be fully vaccinated against Influenza & Covid-19

For a confidential discussion, please contact Daryl Eastwell on 0407 364 654.

great news that former Volleyroo Paul Sanderson has committed to the club for next season in a show of faith to the premier one men. Sanderson, who has been starring for the Melbourne Vipers in Superleague, believes there is unfinished business and he is determined to help the club

Education Support Traineeship & Business Traineeship

Hopetoun

Closing date: September 12, 2023

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

take one step further towards an historic maiden premiership.

Superleague semi-final

Melbourne Vipers will take on Perth Steel in the second semi-final of Superleague in Bendigo on Saturday, after recording a fighting win against

NSW Phoenix in the final round. Needing to secure just one set to qualify, the Vipers pulled out all stops to defeat a plucky Phoenix team and set up a showdown with the Perth team.

Vipers will be at full strength for the semi-final with Bendigo’s own young star Scott Johnson returning to the team that lost to Perth 4-1 three weeks ago.

Admission is free to the finals at the weekend, with semi finals on Saturday and medal matches on Sunday.

Tournament success

Volleyball Horsham enjoyed a successful Bendigo Dragon City Junior tournament with an open girls division two team finishing runner-up and a minis team claiming a series win against its Bendigo counterparts.

Forty teams from across Victoria competed in the tournament, with a number of state teams using the event as final preparations for nationals starting on Sunday.

Volleyball Horsham girls lost to a Victorian White under-15 team in three tight sets, with the girls fighting all the way in a highly entertaining medal match.

Bendigo is the start of the end of season tournament series with senior tournaments coming up in Mornington, Bendigo and Horsham in coming months.

Seasonal Field Worker Intake

Horsham

Closing date: ASAP

Duties:

• Various task working in the field

• Support planting in the glasshouse & field

• Cleaning, treating & bagging seed

• Lab work

• Sowing seeds in pots

• Willing to obtain a Police Check and/or WWCC prior to commencement

For more information contact Kate Clark on 0428 971 821.

• Other duties as required throughout the season

For more information contact Nathan Keel on 1300 135 008.

Agricultural

Parts Interpreter Apprenticeship

St Arnaud

Closing date: ASAP

Requirements:

• Aptitude for mechanics and electronics

• Willingness to commit to work and study

• Basic Automotive knowledge (highly regarded)

• Current driver’s licence and reliable transport (desirable but not essential)

For more information contact Kate Clark on 0428 971 821.

Property Maintenance Labourer

Stawell

Closing date: ASAP

Requirements:

• Current Police Check

• Current Driver’s Licence

• White Card (Construction Induction)

• Demonstrated experience in a maintenance position

• Casual work - shifts as required

To discuss this role further, contact Nathan Keel on 0408 109 324.

HONOURED: From left, Mercedes Arnott, Tamikah Dockrill and Ella Van Duren celebrate their coach awards at Phantoms Volleyball Club’s presentation night.

Tigers win 20th open premiership

BY SIMON KING

One of the most competitive seasons in Wimmera Hockey Association competition concluded with three enthralling grand finals at Yanac on Saturday.

In a close finish, the two senior games were decided in a shoot-out after finishing tied at full time, and although the under-16 match was decided at the end of the fourth quarter, it was still a very close and entertaining encounter.

By winning all three premierships on offer, the home club achieved the ‘trifecta’ for the fourth time, and remain the only club to have achieved this feat.

Open

The open final was the 16th time Yanac Tigers and Warrack Hoops have played off for the premiership in 34 years of competition.

Both teams maintained their record of putting on a top display, regardless of whether in a regular season match or a season decider.

After four quarters of determined hockey, the teams were locked together on the scorecard, with neither team able to breach their opponent’s defence.

This forced the game into a penalty shoot-out, where a single attacker has eight seconds to take on the goalkeeper in an attempt to score.

Both teams missed their first attempts, with the Tigers taking the lead after second attempts.

After going goal-for-goal in the next two rounds, another goal in the Tigers’ last attempt put them two goals ahead, with the Hoops only having one shot left.

With a scoreline of four goals to two, the Tigers won their 20th premiership, eclipsing Warracknabeal

Women’s previous record of 19 to become the most successful team in Wimmera hockey history. It was their eighth consecutive title, which is also a record.

Women

After playing out a full-time draw

when they met in the semi-final, which Kaniva won in a shootout, the scene was set for another top season decider in the women’s division.

Yanac and Kaniva both enjoyed periods of attack in the first quarter, but remained scoreless at quarter time.

Yanac gained the advantage late in the second quarter, and while the balance of play remained even after this, Kaniva was able to equalise just before three-quarter time to set up a big last quarter. But, just like two weeks ago, the deadlock could not be broken before full time.

After four shoot-outs each, the scores were still tied at two-all, and when Kaniva missed its fifth shot,

it was down to Yanac’s last attempt to get a result or take the game to a sudden-death shoot-out.

Yanac earned the premiership with a successful fifth shot, defeating Kaniva for the first time in five meetings this year. This title is Yanac’s ninth overall and sixth in the past 10 seasons.

Under-16

Yanac Warriors and Kaniva Raiders set a high standard when they opened proceedings, with a top encounter to decide the under-16 premiership.

The Warriors were peaking at the right end of the season after spending much of the year in third place on the ladder.

They put in a late surge to claim top

spot three rounds before the finals, and the young Raiders, more than half of whom are still eligible to play in the under-12 development program, had already exceeded expectations by making it this far.

In a great competitive game of hockey by both sides, Yanac gained a twogoal advantage by half time, extending it to three by the final whistle to win its 13th premiership. Despite the loss, with the Raiders not losing any top-age players for next season, they are already looking good to go one better next season.

Grand final results –

Open: Yanac Tigers 0 (4) (Goals, R. Croot, T. Alexander, S. Farmers, K. Croot; best, B. Alexander. Life Members’ Medal for best-on-ground, J. Harding, H. Pedie) d Warrack Hoops 0 (2) (S. Schultz, H. Wagenknecht; T. Jorgensen, H. Wagenknecht, S. Schultz).

Women: Yanac 1 (3) (A. Farmers, M. Mackley, E. Alexander; E. Alexander, M. Mackley, A. Blackwood) d Kaniva 1 (2) (L. Stimson, Q. Pearse; Q. Pearse. Jane Gregson Memorial Medal for best-on-ground, H. White, J. Hauselberger).

Under-16: Yanac Warriors 3 (Archie Zanker 2, S. Pedie; Asher Zanker. Peter Colbert Medal for best-on-ground, Archie Zanker, C. Zanker) d Kaniva Raiders 0 (C. White, L. Krelle, C. Dodson).

SUCCESS: Yanac Tigers are the 2023 Wimmera Hockey Association open premiers. Picture: RACHEL CLARK

OPTIONS: Warrack Hoops’ Leah Eilola and Yanac Tigers’ Rourkey Croot in action in the open grand final. Picture: SIMON KING

BATTLE: Yanac’s Mikayla Mackley eludes Kaniva goalkeeper Briony Williams during a shoot-out to decide the women’s premiers. Picture: SIMON KING

Stars crowned

Stawell onballer Tom Eckel, left, and Ararat star Jake Robinson, right, tied for Wimmera league’s senior football Toohey Medal best and fairest honour on Monday night while Horsham Saints’ Abby Hallam, centre, won the Hatcher medal for A Grade netball best and fairest player. The league presented senior netball and football grades best-and-fairest awards at a vote count at Horsham Golf Club. The league also awarded club championship, volunteer of the year and a life membership at the event. Story, page 52.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER