The Weekly Advertiser – Wednesday, June 19, 2024

Help at hand

BY LAUREN HENRY

Welfare agencies are encouraging farmers to seek help for their mental health amid the effects of the driest Wimmera autumn in 16 years.

Dry conditions have forced farmers to buy feed for stock for months on end, causing higher workloads, anxiety and stress.

Low rain totals are particularly evident across the southern Wimmera, with Edenhope’s autumn rain totalling 32.4 millimetres, well below the autumn average of 127.1mm, according to Bureau of Meteorology data.

Following no rain in March, then 17.8mm in April and 14.6mm in May; only 17.4mm has been recorded so far in June, which usually averages 66mm.

Similarly at Kanagulk, near Balmoral, the autumn rain totalled 31.6mm – none in March, 18.2mm in April and 13.5 in May – whereas the autumn rain average is 99.2mm.

June’s total so far is 11.6mm – a long way off the average of 56mm.

Horsham has fared marginally better with 65.9mm during autumn –16mm in March, 30.8mm April and 10.6mm May – less than the autumn average of 89.7.

Rural Outreach worker Murray McInnes spoke at a field day at Nareen, south of Harrow, which attracted more than 400 farmers, in response to widespread burnout and anxiety.

“This is a new experience for the younger farmers, so it’s hitting them hardest, and there’s no sign of a real rain break coming,” he said.

“Some stress is normal but, if it is dragging on and typical coping strategies aren’t working, it’s time to reach out for help.

“The key message is that there are several options available and no one has to endure this alone.”

Mr McInnes is one of three Grampians Health outreach workers delivering free mental health assistance across western Victoria – the trio travel 28,000 square kilometres to meet with people in their homes or paddocks.

The non-clinical service aims to prevent serious mental health episodes and, when necessary, help people to navigate the healthcare system.

“Studies have shown farmers who regularly take some time for themselves are actually financially better off,” Mr McInnes said.

Continued page 3

COLOURFUL: Ararat Regional Theatre Society, ARTS, will stage its inaugural production, the globally-popular Andrew Lloyd Webber musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, across the next two weekends. Join Scott Rigby as Joseph and the cast at Ararat Town Hall from Friday. Story, more pictures, page 23. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

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Inaugural mental-health round

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

The Wimmera and Horsham District football netball leagues will launch an inaugural mental health round on July 27.

The leagues will partner with AFL mental health program Tackle Your Feelings, which is based on education delivered to the AFL industry, and led by high-profile player and coach ambassadors to deliver the mental health initiative.

Wimmera and Horsham District leagues operations manager Jennie French said football netball clubs could book in-house mental health sessions.

“The sessions run for 60 to 90 minutes and work through a booklet with a local mental health advocate,” she said.

“They will talk about a number of key things to look out for, such as triggers, and introduce a couple of people from mental health fields in our region, to show everyone that these are everyday people they can go and see for help anytime.”

So far, two Horsham District league clubs, Laharum and EdenhopeApsley, two Wimmera league clubs, Warracknabeal and Nhill, and an umpires group, have signed up for the program.

“Next year there will be another five clubs,” Ms French said.

“By having five clubs, our region will get $5500 funding to go into mental health, along with any other money raised during the mental-health round.

“It hasn’t been determined yet how that will be spent, there are a number of options – mental health first aid training for clubs, or to some of our mental health providers locally, or support programs for clubs that have lost someone.”

Wimmera Football Netball League chairman Peter ‘Billy’ Ballagh said the initiative’s catchphrase tied in with the mental-health round’s promotional shoelaces, also a local initiative, encouraging people to check in with a mate, or to check their own mental health.

“The catch cry is ‘checkmate’ – all grades of senior footballers, netballers and their coaches will wear the checkered shoelaces on the day,” he said.

“We do encourage clubs to wear them as long as they can, at training or anywhere, so when you’re doing up your laces, you’re looking at the

checkered pattern and thinking about the importance of mental health.

“I’m pretty sure all of us have experienced the worst-case scenario when someone isn’t travelling well, so I think it’s fairly crucial that we push this as hard as we can.”

Tackle Your Feelings has been introduced following moves from both leagues and some of the initiative’s sponsors after seeing an unfortunate need in the community.

Suicide is the leading cause of death in Australians aged 15 to 44.

“In the past couple of years, there have been three or four clubs un-

fortunately affected by suicide,” Ms French said.

“Both leagues were thinking about it and a couple of sponsors were thinking about it, which has become a working party of the two leagues, with Brendan O’Loughlin, Gavin Morrow and Nathan Henry also being key drivers and sitting on the working group.

“We have a number of key stakeholders to come on board to sponsor these shoelaces for players and coaches, but there will be some other ones available for people to purchase during the day at the mental-health

Farmers encouraged to seek help

From page 1

“Think about it – nobody makes consistently good decisions when they are tired and stressed.”

Best Wool Best Lamb event organiser Tim Leeming said connecting with peers was just as important as developing farming strategies.

“I came up with the idea when I noticed a few neighbours had stopped waving and were showing some bad signs,” he said.

“It’s about sharing ideas around addressing the feed deficit, but it’s also about getting people together for those social and mental benefits.

“When you look at how many peo-

ple turned up, it shows that we’re all in the same boat and figuring out the best way to get through.”

GeoCommodities broker Brad Knight said farmers had to buy in fodder and grain for livestock, and prices were increasing due to both the strong demand and international markets compounded by production concerns in Russia.

“It is as dry as many farmers in that part of the world can remember – it’s extremely dry, not a blade of grass in a lot of areas,” he said.

“I think increasing feeding has been happening for a number of years now

in that part of the world, certainly through the summer and the early autumn, but to buy this far into the autumn, and now obviously into the winter, that’s the unusual component of it.

“It’s been the length of demand that has been the surprising component of it, not the fact they are feeding, because it’s becoming quite common for supplementary feeding, particularly in sheep grazing.”

To contact the free Rural Outreach service phone 1300 OUTREACH, 1300 688 732, or by visiting www. edmh.org.au/rural-outreach-program.

“I’m pretty sure all of us have experienced the worst-case scenario when someone isn’t travelling well, so I think it’s fairly crucial that we push this as hard as we can”

– Peter ‘Billy’ Ballagh

round, and there will be some shaker tins around and things like that for fundraising.”

Tackle Your Feelings is a free mental health program formed by the AFL Coaches Association, AFL Players Association and Zurich Insurance in 2018.

It aims to help participants gain the tools to understand, recognise and respond to signs of mental ill health in themselves and each other.

“Clubs are vital places where people go, not just to play sport, but to socialise,” Ms French said.

“Particularly for farmers and the like who are isolated during the week, that’s their one time to check in and feel they belong.”

Since its formation, the Tackle Your Feelings program has been delivered to more than 10,000 participants across Australia.

Last year, it was delivered to more than 3000 participants from 180 clubs. For more information or to take a mental health test, visit www.tackle yourfeelings.org.au.

• If you, or someone you know needs help, phone Lifeline on 13 11 14, Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800, 13YARN on 13 92 76, Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 or Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467. In an emergency, phone Triple Zero.

ON HAND: Rural Outreach worker Murray McInnes is one of three Grampians Health outreach workers delivering free mental health assistance across western Victoria – the trio travel 28,000 square kilometres to meet with people in their homes or paddocks.

CHECKMATE: Wimmera Football Netball League chairman Peter ‘Billy’ Ballagh and Horsham District Football Netball League representative Jayde Ellis promote the mental health rounds involving clubs and umpires.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Residents can now go online to confirm their enrolment details and check which ward they will vote in ahead of this October’s Council elections.

The Victorian Electoral Commission’s (VEC) ‘Check My Enrolment’ webpage is the place to go for voter information.

HRCC NEWS

People have until 4pm on Wednesday 7 August to ensure they are enrolled to vote. Ballot packs will be mailed out from Monday 7 October. When voters check their enrolment details, the results will show which of HRCC’s new wards they are located in (scroll to bottom of webpage).

Currently an unsubdivided municipality, HRCC will move to having seven single-councillor wards following a 2023 Victorian Government review.

Residents must vote in the ward that they live in.

However candidates for election can nominate in any ward regardless of where they live or own property.

It is compulsory for every enrolled person to vote at the 2024 local government elections.

The wards are named Green Park, Horsham North, Kalimna, May Park, Oatlands, Pine Lake and Wyn Wyn.

The Re-Open The Wesley Campaign aims to restore the Roberts Avenue building and give it a fresh purpose as a niche performing arts space.

HRCC previously matched the Wesley Committee’s cash contribution to the project of $225,000 enabling it to kick off a fundraising campaign with $450,000.

The Wesley Committee is now seeking to raise an additional $550,000 from community donations and contributions from corporate and philanthropic entities.

This will allow the Committee to seek a dollar-for-dollar government grant to reach the final target of $2 million.

PUBLIC NOTICES

NOTICE OF INTENTION TO SELL LAND AT HENTY HIGHWAY, DOOEN

Horsham Rural City Council gives notice under Section 114 of the Local Government Act 2020 of its intention to sell land at the Wimmera Agricultural and Logistics Hub (WAL Hub), Henty Highway, Dooen as described in the Notice of Proposal to Sell Council Property on Council’s website. As part of its community engagement process, Council is inviting submissions on the Proposal. Submissions must be in writing and received no later than 5pm, Friday 5 July 2024. Further information regarding the proposal may be obtained from Council’s Manager Investment Attraction and Growth on 03 5382 9777.

Did you know that the Horsham Library has a fantastic selection of DVDs that you can borrow for free?

Aside from the range of books, magazines and audiobooks, the library also carries a wide and current selection of films, ranging from classics to newly released critical darlings.

There’s also a large selection of television series, including classics like Midsomer Murders, all the way up to modern sensations such as Succession, Better Call Saul and The Crown.

If streaming isn’t for you, or you’re nostalgic for the video shop experience, drop into the Horsham Library and grab something to watch over the weekend.

Horsham's Visitor Information Centre has the solution for restless kids on long drives. Visitors on the road and heading through Horsham, stop in at the Visitor Information Centre and pick up an activity pack.

Featuring an activity book, themed after Horsham and its surrounds, a packet of pencils and a selection of goodies, this pack should buy at least a few minutes of quiet time.

Current Community Engagements

HORSHAM AIRPORT MASTERPLAN

The Draft Horsham Airport Master Plan, which aims to transform the Horsham Aerodrome into a regional flight hub, is available for public comment. Feedback period closes 10 July, 2024.

HOUSING STRATEGY

The Horsham and Natimuk Housing Diversity and Affordability Strategy will be a 15-year plan to manage demand for housing. Consultation open until 21 June 2024.

For details visit the Have Your Say section of HRCC's website

Did you know that empty aerosol cans like fly spray, insect repellent, and sunscreen are made from either steel or aluminum, and can be recycled?

By recycling these items, the materials can be used again to make new products, so once they're completely empty, simply toss them into your yellow-lidded recycling bin.

Online orders for Horsham Rural City Council’s Rural Revegetation program are now being taken.

People who live in the municipality with a property that is 0.4 hectares (one acre) or larger are eligible to order a selection of subsidised native plants.

The tube-sized trees are just 50c each and people can order up to 300 plants depending on the size of their property.

Infrastructure Director John Martin said the program had been popular for many years.

Orders close Friday 21 June at 4pm

Pickup will be from the HRCC Depot:

• Friday 12 July 8am to 6pm

• Saturday 13 July 8am to 4pm

Horsham Rural City Council will soon construct a pilot pedestrian crossing at the Firebrace Street and McLachlan Street roundabout.

Scheduled for the weekend of 22 and 23 June 2024, these installations, known as ‘wombat crossings,’ are part of a project aimed at improving the city’s walkability.

Unlike traditional crossings, wombat crossings are raised platforms that act as speed calming measures to provide pedestrians a safe crossing point.

Meg seizing opportunities

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Meg Woolford will become the first woman, and possibly the youngest person, to be appointed principal at Horsham College when she officially starts the role on July 15.

Ms Woolford’s career began as a teacher, which led to being assistant principal before acting in the principal role since the departure of Rob Pyers.

She said she had seen the school shift and change since she started there as a graduate teacher in 2011.

“We know education is changing and it will always change, and I’m looking forward to evolving with that – I am excited by the opportunities that are ahead of us,” she said.

“I will continue to ensure Horsham College is a high-performing school and meets the needs of the whole community.

“Whether it’s students who want to go off and become doctors or lawyers, of which we have great success in that space, or students who are interested in a trade-based pathway, and again we have incredible success in that as well, I’m looking forward to continuing that work and broadening those opportunities for our college students, but also for the wider community.”

Ms Woolford was a classroom teacher for four years before working in a leadership position for three years, until she stepped into an assistant principal role in 2018.

In the past six years, she has acted as principal at both Horsham College and Horsham Special School.

Ms Woolford has been acting principal at the college since term four last year, when then-principal Rob Pyers

“It’s quite an honour to be the first female, but it’s certainly not the thing that I’m most proud of – I’m most proud of being able to be the leader of Horsham College because it is a wonderful school with fantastic staff, students, parent community, and has great connections with the community as well”

– Meg Woolford

took on a role at department level, working to support secondary school development.

“Following his success as principal at Dimboola Memorial Secondary College and Horsham College, as well as supporting other schools with their reviews and finances, he has shown he is certainly up for the challenge

in a job of great variety,” she said.

Ms Woolford will officially begin the principal’s role in term three.

“It’s quite an honour to be the first female, but it’s certainly not the thing that I’m most proud of – I’m most proud of being able to be the leader of Horsham College because it is a wonderful school with fantastic staff,

students, parent community, and has great connections with the community as well, so that’s the thing I’m most proud of,” she said.

The college has more than 1000 students in years seven to 12, and is the only government secondary school in Horsham.

Two Wimmera shovel-ready projects win support

Two Wimmera projects are among 27 to be funded through the State Government’s $25-million Council Support Package.

The package funds projects that are designed to increase tourism, improve local infrastructure, strengthen businesses and empower volunteers – with grants ranging from $20,000 and $5million depending on size and scope.

Horsham Rural City Council will receive $100,000 for a new playground as part of the Horsham City Oval masterplan.

The new playground will be located between the planned netball pavilion site and the multipurpose stage.

The play area, which will have child safe gates, will not only be accessed by City Oval users but will also be

open to the adjacent Sawyer Park and Wimmera River foreshore, providing visitation benefits.

The other Wimmera project to receive funding was for universal access to the Stella Young statue in Stawell’s Cato Park.

Northern Grampians Shire Council will receive $100,000 to construct a new fully-accessible path to the statue of the disability rights campaigner, supporting community cohesion and civic pride.

Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney said the package, now fully acquitted, had successfully helped shovel-ready projects get off the ground in Victoria’s biggest regional cities and surrounding towns.

Ms Tierney said the government was

building on its support for regional Victoria with exciting new projects set to boost local economies, build stronger communities and give people more reasons to stop and visit.

“We’re excited to support projects that matter to locals across rural and regional Victoria — these projects are creating better public spaces, increased economic activity and more reasons for people to visit and stay,” she said.

“Shovel-ready projects means these are projects ready to start soon – so local communities will experience the benefits of the investment in the very near future.”

The big winners from the funding announcement were $5-million for Geelong’s John Landy Athletics

Field facility upgrade; $5-million for the Ballarat Major Events Precinct – Community Sporting Facilities Upgrade, which includes new modular buildings at Frank Bourke Oval for player change rooms and amenities, umpires change rooms, administration and scorers’ box, verandah, and storage in line with the AFL Facility Guidelines; $5-million to extend the Bendigo Creek channel walkway between Golden Square, White Hills and Bendigo town centre; and $3-million for upgrades to Shepparton Sports Precinct.

For more information visit rdv.vic. gov.au/councilsupportpackage.

Delivering for women

Women’s Health Grampians will use State Government funding to deliver initiatives focused on sexual and reproductive health, chronic illness and reducing the impact of family violence on women and the health system.

Twelve women’s health organisations across Victoria will share in $18million allocated in the State Budget. The work will be delivered by women for women, including those from multicultural backgrounds, Aboriginal women, women with disabilities, and women in regional Victoria.

Women’s Health organisation provide a range of services including producing tools and resources to empower women to take charge of their own health, sharing information about women’s rights and service options, as well as initiatives to promote gender equality, family violence prevention and inclusive women’s health policy. Victoria’s Inquiry into Women’s Pain is taking submissions until July 31. People can make submissions at engage.vic.gov.au/inquiry-intowomens-pain-survey.

Fees increase

An increase in landfill levy charges in West Wimmera Shire Council will see community groups and committees pay for waste disposal following events.

Starting on July 1, groups hiring the council’s waste trailer will pay a small fee for waste disposal; council will continue to provide the trailer delivery and removal service free of charge. Significant transportation, handling, and tipping fees, alongside the stateimposed landfill levy increasing by 33 percent from next year, have led to this decision.

The user-pays principle ensures costs are equitably distributed among those generating the waste, rather than being shouldered by all ratepayers. Requests for the trailer and other services provided by the council need to be via the council’s website.

Banding together

Horsham musician Nick Shirrefs will debut two major works during an Art is… performance, when three bands unite to perform for the public.

Horsham Rural City Band, Flinders String Quartet, and Gariwerd String Quartet will perform separately at the Church of Christ, Horsham, before performing together.

Tickets are $20 each for Saturday’s event at 7.30pm, and are available online via www.artiswimmera.com/ event-details-registration/communityconcert or at the door.

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Yarriambiack expo a launchpad

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

West

Vic Business Yarriambiack will launch at an inaugural business expo in Warracknabeal next week, following months of collaboration between stakeholders to support small businesses.

West Vic Business ambassador Stacey Taig said her team had worked with Yarriambiack Shire Council and an advisory committee of business owners during the past 18 months to put the first-ever expo together.

“The whole premise is to build great economic activity within Yarriambiack and give business owners the same opportunities as other centres,” she said.

“We will be inviting businesses from across the shire to become members and be a part of future networking and business-related events.”

Ms Taig said the creation of an ‘official’ presence in Yarriambiack shire followed a conscious effort from the organisation to represent diverse business communities.

Barbecue for a cause

Horsham’s Bull and Mouth Hotel will fire up the barbecue on July 27 as charity Wim-mera Against Cancer in Kids, WACK, hosts a special fund-raiser lunch.

WACK, which has financially supported Wimmera families with a child battling cancer since 1999, hosts an annual car and bike show as its main fundraiser, but trustee Brendan McKinnon said it had also periodically organised a barbecue event.

He said the group hoped to raise about $7000 at this year’s function, with 100 tickets on sale at $100 per person, or $160 for couples.

There will also be a goods and services auction as well as raffle prizes, although Mr McKinnon said the primary focus of the barbecue would simply be having a good time.

“We’ll be doing roast pork and lamb for lunch, and then there’s a goods and services auction and some raffles that will add a little bit of fundraising, but it won’t be too much because people are paying to come and have lunch,” he said.

“It’s always a fun day. The last time we did it we had a good time and I think we

It also aims to bring key service providers into the shire to offer training and support, through networking events, community initiatives and strategic partnerships to enable its members to thrive and flourish.

“We’re hoping it’s the start of something bigger for us there, we’re really excited to help where we can,” Ms Taig said.

“That’s the core purpose of West Vic –helping every business be as successful and as prosperous as they can be.”

Ms Taig said there were programs to assist business owners in adapting to suit changing economic and social climates.

“We want to build supports around the network of Yarriambiack business owners to ensure longevity of that business and the service it offers to the wider community,” she said.

Industry, partner and local speakers will feature at the expo, including Donald Mineral Sands’ Paul Atherton, Spark Strategy’s George Liacos, Telstra’s Kamini Kumaran and Joe Dunning, and Dimboola Imaginarium’s Chan Uoy.

Victorian Small Business Commissioner Lynda McAlary-Smith is keynote speaker –she is passionate about creating a fair and competitive trading environment for all Victorians in small business, and supporting the sector in working through recovery from the pandemic towards renewal.

The expo presents opportunities to businesses to learn about their part in building the Yarriambiack shire business brand and how it fits into the Yarriambiack shire economic blueprint, with opportunities of guidance and support to combat challenges, collaboration to create an impact, and linking to grow with like-minded businesses.

“As well as being a chance for Yarriambiack businesses to come together and network, this is effectively the launchpad for what’s to come,” Ms Taig said.

The expo runs from 9am to 1pm at Warracknabeal Town Hall on Tuesday.

For more information or to register, people can visit westvicbusiness.com.au/ events/2024-yarriambiack-business-expo.

might have raised about $7000. We’re hoping to raise about that much again.”

In addition to directly supporting Wimmera families affected by cancer, WACK also donates to the Ronald McDonald House charity, which provides accommodation to families with seriously ill children. Since first donating to Ronald McDonald House more than 20 years ago, WACK has given more than $95,000 to the charity.

Ronald McDonald House Victoria and Tasmania chief

executive Peter Bishop will travel to attend this month’s barbecue and described WACK’s support as ‘wonderful’.

“It’s been a great area of support for us. WACK has donated nearly $100,000 towards Ronald McDonald House over a significant period of time,” he said.

“It started off as mates looking after mates. There was a family who stayed at the house in the early days, and they’ve continued to support us for more than 20 years.

“We have families who need to use our facilities who come from the Wimmera, so we’re happy to have that connection.

“This money helps us keep the facilities up to scratch so we can support those families.”

People can purchase tickets for the WACK barbecue by visiting the Bull and Mouth Hotel at 83 Wilson Street, Horsham.

Bookings are essential and places are limited.

–Colin MacGillivray

SUPPORTERS: Wimmera Against Cancer in Kids member Brendan McKinnon, left, with Bull and Mouth Hotel publicans Dain and Carly Mitchell, prepare for Sunday’s fundraising event. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

On the same page for 60 years

Pat and Wally Rowsell were married 60 years ago today, June 19, at Horsham Uniting Church.

Mrs Rowsell, a Horsham local, worked at the hospital and Bennett Road Kindergarten until she and Mr Rowsell married.

Mr Rowsell worked at Jung’s general store, then drove trucks, before finishing his working career at Murtoa’s grain terminal, where he was ultimately manager.

Living at Murtoa for most of their married life, Mrs Rowsell said they had enjoyed playing sport together.

“We were both keen on sport. I played tennis, golf and lawn bowls, while Wally played football, cricket and golf,” she said.

“I played off an 18 handicap at one point, but averaged about 24 – Wally got

down to about 12, and currently plays off 20.”

The couple has two children, Garry and Jenni, and four grandchildren.

“We had our challenges when the children were young, money was tight, as I stopped working once we were married,” Mrs Rowsell said.

“Wally does an absolutely wonderful job caring for me, I have a lung condition, he does the shopping, cooking and laundry.”

Mrs Rowsell said they still find enjoyment in doing things together, although the pace has changed – they never miss an episode of television quiz show The Chase.

“I think just generally, a successful marriage comes from being on the same page, most of the time,” she said.

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Call for inquiry submissions

Residents and local councils are encouraged to make submissions to a Parliamentary inquiry into local government funding and services.

The inquiry, instigated by the Liberals and National parties, is in response to concerns raised by many local government areas about cost shifting in areas such as waste collection, school crossing attendants and the repair of regional roads.

A specially-appointed committee will investigate local government funding and service delivery in Victoria, including cost shifting from state and federal governments to local council; the ability of local governments to meet core service delivery objectives; local government’s revenue structure and whether it is sustainable and appropriate; and whether alternative models of funding should be considered.

Member for Lowan Emma Kealy said she had met with councils across the electorate and had been told many times it was not always clear who paid for what, and how much each should pay.

“This inquiry will provide an important opportunity to examine what is working well and what can be done better,” she said.

Submissions are due by June 28 and can be made via the Legislative Council Economy and Infrastructure committee’s webpage at www. parliament.vic.gov.au/get-involved/inquiries/ localgovernmentfunding/submissions.

Tapestry at TAMA

An exhibition of large-scale tapestries from a renowned Melbourne workshop will be on display at Ararat Gallery Textile Art Museum Australia, TAMA, this week.

The exhibition features pieces from the Tapestry Design Award for Architects, an international competition that connects design and art.

The award asked architects to design largescale tapestries, and weavers at the Australian Tapestry Workshop, ATW, brought the designs of some of last year’s finalists to life.

ATW director Sophie Travers will open the travelling exhibition, titled Propositions: Tapestry Design Prize For Architects 2023, at Ararat Gallery TAMA on Saturday at 2pm.

People can find more information about Ararat Gallery TAMA and the exhibition by visiting website araratgallerytama.com.au.

St Mary’s awarded

Ararat’s St Mary’s Parish Primary School is one of about 200 schools Australia-wide to receive a grant this year through Landcare Australia and Woolworths.

The Woolworths Junior Landcare Grants provide up to $1000 to support outdoor learning projects at primary schools and early learning centres.

St Mary’s will use the money for a project that gives children experience preparing soil, growing, harvesting and cooking vegetables, as well as composting.

Woolworths Wimmera district group manager Shane Crowley said it was great to see the school awarded.

Pat and Wally Rowsell

Heartfelt donation for mental health

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Lenda Newton has donated $1000 to Callum Taylor’s fundraising efforts for the annual Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb, in memory of her son Adrian Newton, a firefighter, who was killed overseas.

Mr Newton left a legacy, not just with the people who knew and worked alongside him, but in the wider community.

In 2016, he won funding for a mental health awareness fundraiser as part of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade’s 125th anniversary celebrations, which he put towards the beginnings of ‘Let Me Know’, a support service for emergency service workers and their families.

Following Mr Newton’s death, the committee continued to develop Let Me Know into an app and a website, supported by Beyond Blue and Phoenix Australia.

Mr Newton received a commendation for this work in suicide prevention, which was awarded posthumously.

He was also recognised for his actions at an entrapment incident that occurred on April 27, 2016.

In a letter dated May 10, 2016, MFB chief officer Peter Rau thanked Mr Newton for his contribution at the entrapment, noting his ‘leadership and decisiveness delivered life-saving interventions at this most extraordinary event… your actions have contributed to making the MFB world class’.

Mr Newton was killed in Bali on May 17, 2016 at the age of 42; the letter arrived while he was away.

Mrs Newton said her son did not say much about the incident.

“It was just a brief phone call because he was getting ready to go to Indonesia, he was excited about that,” she said.

“He said, ‘I’ve got to tell you this happened, but I think I’ll be right because I’ve got a great team around me’.”

Mr Newton told his mother ambulance officers were at the entrapment when firefighters arrived.

“No one was game to make a decision, the firies were trained in entrapment, so it was his call, that’s about all he said, he didn’t go into any details,”

Mrs Newton said. “Adrian wouldn’t have known whether the person survived or not, his crew would have just handed it over and gotten on with the next job.”

Mr Newton worked in New York for a month as a firefighter, as well as spending a year in Canada on work exchange.

“He went to Vancouver, but that was too quiet for him, so he went to Whistler – he loved snowboarding, mountain bike riding, scuba diving and surfing,” Mrs Newton said.

“If he wasn’t busting a limb or

something, it wasn’t fun – he liked adrenaline.”

Mr Newton’s life changed at the age of 16, when he found his career calling.

“He suddenly went from a kid who was always in trouble, to someone who knew where he wanted to go,”

Mrs Newton said.

“At 17 he took himself down to Melbourne, studied fire technology at university, and ultimately became a recruit instructor and station officer.”

Mr Newton spent three years as a volunteer with the Country Fire Au-

thority in Horsham before working for the MFB for 19 years, stationed at West Melbourne, Carlton and South Melbourne fire stations.

“His last station was Richmond –photos of him are still on display,” Mrs Newton said.

Mr Newton participated in some of the first Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climbs, which continue to raise money and awareness for mental health for those in the emergency service and defence communities.

“I remember giving money to Adrian for his climbs, and when I saw Callum’s fundraising poster with the firefighting gear at the Horsham YMCA, I wanted to donate,” Mrs Newton said.

“I spoke to Mark, the YMCA manager, because I didn’t know who Callum was.

“It turns out Callum has a friendly competition with his dad, Jason, to see who can raise the most money.

“Jason came home with $1000 from his workplace, Horsham Motor Company, and I thought I could match that.”

Callum Taylor, 21, has participated in the stair climb twice before.

“Callum is a lovely kid, he reminds me of Adrian at that age, so enthusiastic about firefighting, and after talking to him and getting to know him, I thought to myself, ‘I’ve done the right thing here’,” Mrs Newton said.

“My heart feels like it’s in a good place.”

Donations can be made to the Horsham CFA and State Emergency Service volunteers participating in the stair climb at www.firefighterclimb.org.au/ donations/donate.

SHOW OF SUPPORT: Lenda Newton is supporting young Horsham Fire Brigade firefighter Callum Taylor in the Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb in memory of her son Adrian Newton. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Who would you add to the list...

Victorian Nationals leader Peter Walsh started a petition last week to revoke former Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews of the Companion of the Order of Australia, which he was awarded as part of the King’s Birthday honours.

Mr Walsh said Mr Andrews did not deserve a King’s Birthday honour, describing the recognition as ‘inappropriate’ and ‘unjustified’.

He said under no circumstances should Mr Andrews retain the honour – pointing to the negative aspects of Mr Andrews’ tenure as premier.

While Mr Walsh is no doubt playing politics – I’m sure there are plenty of Victorians who support the hon-

our being removed. Claiming Mr Andrews ‘has done nothing to deserve such a high honour’ is probably a stretch – despite all his shortcomings and failures, there were some achievements in his nine years as premier and 20 years as a Member of Parliament.

However, it does raise a broader question about who should be entitled to King’s Birthday and Australia Day honours.

Each year the media is sent the list early, under strict embargo to not release the names until the day, or night before, and as regional journalists, we scour the long list looking for people who live locally or have local connections.

Each year, I come across so many

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Health reforms

I am disappointed I have not received a personalised response to the issues raised from my letter dated May 14, 2024 sent to Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas and others.

Since sending that letter, there was an article in The Weekly Advertiser, May 29, regarding the threat of health mergers in Victoria.

In that article West Wimmera Health Service chief executive Ritchie Dodds stated: “We have been assured… this process will not result in the closure of individual hospitals or sites.”

A quote attributed to Ms Thomas was ‘some health services are spending way too much on consultations and PR’.

I would have thought it was the responsibility of the health department to work with these sites to assist them to work better and smarter and encourage better business outcomes.

Just because some health services are not doing so well, is not a reason to treat all health services in Victoria the same.

Another of Ms Thomas’ quotes was ‘there are also hospitals around our state that are not treating the number of patients they could.

I want to see more patients in our small rural and regional hospitals. We need to make sure our health services are providing care as close to home as possible for as many people as possible’.

Great, this is pleasing to my ears, however, I am assuming by this you mean they should be providing as many different services as possible.

I don’t believe amalgamation will achieve this as it will remove the local knowledge and understanding from decision making, and services will be cut at individual sites.

Finances will all be put into one big bucket and those doing well financially will be used to prop up those not managing financially.

We have seen it happen in the newly formed Grampians Health service, and do not wish for the same result here in western Victoria.

The commonsense way to achieve this would be to work towards building a stronger workforce, offering incentives encouraging people to take up positions in regional areas and working ‘with’ organisations such as WWHS to achieve growth by strengthening the existing formal regional partnership model.

Ms Thomas was also quoted as saying ‘the cost of local and agency staff has been increasing rapidly. And one of the reasons for this is we have 76 health services competing against one another for staff’.

So, if there are to be no site closures, and ‘our health services are providing care as close to home as possible for as many people as possible’, what difference is an amalgamation going to make to staffing levels? Unless the plan is to once again reduce the services currently offered at individual sites.

Then, over time, sites will not be able to survive financially because of the decrease in revenue and will be forced to close, or simply become a nursing home, offering no allied health, acute or emergency support to their community. If this is the case, it will mean more people

EDITORIAL

By Lauren Henry

names – who are not from regional areas – that make me wonder: do all these people really deserve such high recognition?

The celebrities, the politicians, the sports stars, the people who are essentially just doing their jobs – albeit well – are awarded.

Sure, if they have gone above and beyond and donated time or money to charity or community groups that they weren’t paid for, then they may

will be attending at fewer sites. I am sure those fewer sites are at present struggling to meet the demand of clients, and yet more will be forced onto them by these reductions. Once again, increasing wait times, travel required by clients and costs incurred.

I don’t believe pushing services ‘down the line’ is going to achieve anything but a more congested health service than we have now, putting more pressure on the major centres and therefore staff.

Emergency departments in major centres are not coping with the number of patients presenting already and we see on the news the ambulance ramping that is taking place, too.

It is not possible to continually push stuff into a bucket; there is a point when no more will fit.

Perhaps there should be a review of the agency staff system. I think this is a loophole which is being exploited by some.

With Nhill being a small community, I know several staff who work for WWHS. I know there are quite a few staff who will resign or retire if the amalgamation goes ahead. This will further impact your staff shortage.

WWHS is already administering nine sites, and is doing well financially.

Please work with them to improve the services they are able to provide, but please do not force amalgamation on them, as this will only be detrimental to this health service and our community.

Jennifer Goldsworthy, Nhill

School saving bonus divide

The Allan Labor Government’s $400 School Saving Bonus is blatantly inequitable and its unfairness really hits home for regional Victorians.

All students in government schools are immediately approved to receive the bonus, yet incredibly those in low-fee Catholic and independent schools miss out.

There’s a clear divide. Why should hardworking families be penalised for the choice of their school?

To put it bluntly, high-income families with children in government schools are set to receive this bonus with no questions asked.

Meanwhile, families in regional areas who choose to send their children to non-government, low-fee schools are being cut out.

In many regional low-fee Catholic schools, more than 50 percent of the students come from disadvantaged families. It doesn’t make sense to shun them.

The Allan Labor government must rethink this decision if they genuinely care and intend to support regional Victorians.

Labor cannot manage money and regional Victorians are paying the price.

The Nationals are taking action, launching a Fair School Bonus campaign.

I urge you to support our campaign by visiting this link vicn.at/schoolsavingbonus.

Emma Kealy, Member for Lowan and deputy leader of The Nationals

be entitled to receive the recognition. Under each awardee on the list is a description of why they are being awarded, and there has been more than one occasion where I have noted the lack of contribution to charity or acts that they have not been paid for.

When you compare them to the people who receive such honours for their strong volunteer work and contribution to the community, it is difficult to justify why they have been included on the list.

I’m only referring to the Order of Australia awards, not the meritorious – the recipients of the Public Service Medal, Australian Police Medal, Australian Fire Service Medal, Australian Service Medal, Emergency Services Medal, Australian Corrections Medal,

and Military awards are obviously recognising people for the work they do in their specific occupations.

But what about all the people in our community who don’t receive any such Order of Australia recognition?

Recipients have to be nominated by someone to be considered and I’m sure there are hundreds of people in our region who would be worthy of nomination.

The process is far from perfect and there needs to be more community engagement around who and why people are nominated.

Who do you know that is worthy of a nomination?

Take the time to nominate them at www.gg.gov.au.

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AND THE WINNER IS: Horsham’s Alisha Ellis was the winner of 3WM, MIXX FM and The Weekly Advertiser’s 40K Countdown promotion. Mrs Ellis won $27,000 after shopping local at Horsham’s Kevin Paisley Optometrists. She said plans to take her children to Queensland for a family holiday

finish off an outdoor area at their home – ‘and we

fence’. She is pictured with ACE Radio announcer Kaycee Tickner and Kevin Paisley Optometrists manager Julie Stewart. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

www.ararat.vic.gov.au

JOIN OUR OFFICIAL E-NEWSLETTER

Sign up to Council’s official e-newsletter to receive important info about our community, including infrastructure updates, upcoming events, and the latest Council news stories. Scan the QR code to join via Engage Ararat.

CONNECT WITH A COMMUNITY ORGANISATION

Are you interested in connecting with a community group or club? There’s a diverse range of community organisations within Ararat Rural City, including athletics, cricket, netball, health and wellbeing, local history, and creative arts. Scan the QR code to view our directory of community organisations or to submit a request to list your community group or club on our website.

THE MIK MAKS

TICKETS ON SALE NOW

Multi-award winning family band and Ararat legends The Mik Maks are returning to Ararat Town Hall for a one-off ‘Big Show’! Al, Joel, Ava, Drums the Panda and friends are throwing a 50-minute musical extravaganza perfect for children aged 2-8 years. Don’t miss your chance to dance, giggle and meet The Mik Maks right here at Ararat Town Hall. Scan the code QR for tickets.

@araratruralcitycouncil

Enjoy a free sausage sizzle whilst the kids try a range of different sporting activities, or have a go at the new Ninja Course. Everyone is welcome! Please register via the QR code.

Over the next eight months, Ararat Library will undergo an interior furnishings upgrade as announced in Council’s 2024/25 Draft Budget. The project will include upgraded furniture and shelving, new carpet, two additional computers and improved signage. Share your thoughts on our Engage Ararat website: engage. ararat.vic.gov.au/ararat-library-upgrade

APPLY NOW COMMUNITY GRANTS

Ararat Rural City Council’s Community Grants Program is open. Local groups are encouraged to submit applications for grants of up to $5,000 on a two-for-one basis across four distinct categories: sports/recreation and health/wellbeing, culture and arts, environment and sustainability, and events. Scan the QR code to find out more and to apply.

New units for growing workforce

Grampians Health Stawell has secured new accommodation to assist staff relocating to the region.

Six new units about 200 metres from the hospital and 300 metres from Stawell Medical Centre add to Grampians Health’s accommodation offerings in Stawell, which already include about 20 properties in the town.

Chief redevelopment and infrastructure officer Veronica Furnier-Tosco said the new units would support the growth and development of Grampians Health Stawell, ensuring new staff members had access to comfortable and sustainable living arrangements.

“Grampians Health is committed to providing infrastructure to deliver

the best care possible and this commitment extends to offering the right accommodation to support new staff relocating to join our team,” she said.

Stawell site director Sue Campigli toured the new units this month and said securing the new accommodation was a fantastic outcome for Grampians Health.

“Several new international medical professionals will be joining our team in the coming weeks and having suitable, long-term accommodation within a short walking distance is an excellent achievement,” she said.

“The sustainable units are designed to operate carbon neutrally and generate twice the amount of power they consume, helping to achieve Grampians Health’s environmental sustainability targets.”

IMPORTANT MESSAGE: Kaniva

Nhill

‘Amb-ewe-Lance’

Kaniva ambulance community officers have added a quirky addition to their community – an Ambulance Victoria-themed sheep statue along the Kaniva Sheep Art Trail.

‘Amb-ewe-Lance’, or Lance for short, is painted in an ambulance community officers, ACO, uniform and serves as a reminder to the community of the important work that ACOs do.

ACOs are first responders, employed by Ambulance Victoria on a casual basis to work on call and support qualified paramedics in rural and regional communities.

Kaniva team leader Monica Feder said while Lance might seem like a light-hearted addition to the community art trail, he also helped to share an important safety message.

“Lance is a great way to spark a conversation in the community about the work ACOs do, as well as the need for everyone to learn basic first aid,” she said.

Ms Feder said she hoped Lance would encourage people to learn essential first aid skills such

ECO-

FRIENDLY: Grampians Health Stawell site director Sue Campigli and Stawell support services manager Fiona Bottomley inspect new accommodation available for staff members.

Improved council satisfaction

Ararat Rural City Council recorded an improved result in this year’s community satisfaction survey, scoring above the state-wide average in every measure.

The annual survey is aimed at gathering insights from residents to enhance council service delivery.

Local Government Victoria, LGV, commissioned the National Field Service to complete the survey on behalf of all Victorian councils.

The survey was designed to assess each council’s performance across measures including customer service, council direction, environmental sustainability, emergency and disaster management, community engagement and infrastructure improvements.

joins Kaniva trail

as cardiopulmonary resuscitation, CPR, and how to use an automated external defibrillator, AED.

An ear-tag will be attached to Lance’s ear that links to the AV webpage, which hosts important safety messaging.

A labour of love went into bringing Lance the sheep into life, with current and retired ACO’s working on the design and painting of the sheep.

“It’s taken about six months to bring the artwork together from start to finish, but it’s been a lot of fun and it’s just another way to make sure we’re engaging with our community,” Ms Feder said.

“I would encourage anyone who is interested in the work we do to find out more.”

Lance is based at the Kaniva Sheep Art Trail at the Kaniva Wetlands and Fauna Park.

Established as a community arts project, the Kaniva Sheep Art Trail is a 900-metre-long trail that features a collection of sheep. Each sheep has its own name and links to a place or community group.

Surveyors interviewed more than 400 Ararat Rural City residents to ensure a diverse and inclusive range of voices contributed to survey findings.

Council chief executive Tim Harrison said the results were ‘very encouraging’ but said there was still plenty of scope for council improvement.

“Receiving feedback from our community is a crucial step towards improving our performance and is vital in shaping council’s future initiatives and policies,” he said.

“Council is committed to working with the community to deliver continuous improvements across all our service areas.”

and

Ambulance Victoria crews with ‘Amb-ewe-Lance’ the sheep.

Reminder of region’s rich heritage

Horsham’s University of the Third Age has secured a VicTrack grant to enhance the comfort and functionality of U3A headquarters at Horsham Railway Station.

The grant has enabled the installation of two split-level air conditioning units – one in the waiting room, which hosts card-playing and sewing groups; and another in the studio, home to various art classes.

The grant will also fund improved access to the west wing of the building.

Due to termite damage, VicTrack contractors have also started the replacement of the 145-year-old original stumps,

installing more durable concrete stumps to ensure the building’s longevity and safety.

One metre below floor level, bricks believed to date back to 1870 were uncovered.

Historian and U3A vice-president Bob McIlvena said the bricks were originally produced by Sawyer Brickworks, located downstream of the bridge across the Wimmera River, for Horsham Railway Station.

“Not only did Sawyer Brickworks supply bricks for the Horsham Railway Station, but they were also instrumental in building the railway station at Serviceton and many homes in the surrounding area,” he said.

“Discovering the pristine bricks

connects us to a significant period in Horsham’s development and reminds us of our rich heritage.

“The original straight grain red gum used for the stumps came from trees from the Horsham district, but sadly, such timber would rarely be found in the Wimmera now.”

Mr McIlvena said the first train journey through Horsham in 1879 marked a pivotal moment in the region’s history, symbolising progress and connection.

“The recent discovery and restoration efforts not only preserve the physical structure of the U3A building but also rekindle a sense of local pride and historical awareness,” he said.

All ages embrace Australian Ballet visit

The Australian Ballet’s Education and Outreach team welcomed members of the public to participate in tailored classes at Horsham Library, with five sessions selling out.

Wimmera Library programs and engagement officer Samantha Brown said there were four classes for children and one for seniors.

“We reached out to all the local kindergartens, with a huge uptake from Green Park, three sessions sold out quite quickly with them.

“Other children from the community came too, it was absolutely amazing, it was great to see the beautiful smiles on their little faces.

“The teacher was amazing with all the kids, she was very kind, and knew her ballet very well. She made it such a comfortable, happy place to be in.”

Ms Brown said a variety of events run at the library for all ages, from Rhymetime and Storytime for children, to visiting authors and craft groups.

“We always have something going on, and we are open to suggestions – we want to cater to our community as best we can,” she said.

For information on what is on across Wimmera Libraries, visit www.wimmeralibraries.vic.gov.au/#events.

UNCOVERED: Horsham U3A members Bob McIlvena and Joyce Lane with stumps and bricks from the Horsham Railway Station, which were uncovered during renovations.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

CREATIVE: Pictured enjoying workshops run by Australian Ballet’s Education and Outreach team are, above, Liz Hopkins, right, Isabella Schultz, below right, Larson Versteegan, and below, Brigitte Muir.

Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

Building on opportunities

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Women’s Health Grampians is one of 10 organisations across Victoria to share in a $1.3 million State Government program aimed at helping the maledominated energy and manufacturing sectors attract and retain women.

The organisation received $100,000 through the Women in Energy and Manufacturing program to help women take up trades in the Wimmera.

Minister for Women Natalie Hutchins said inflexible working arrangements, a lack of paid parental leave, gender discrimination, sexism and sexual harassment were among barriers preventing women from entering the energy and manufacturing industries, leading to workforce underrepresentation.

Women’s Health Grampians, WHG, chief executive Marianne Hendron said the money would help fund two programs – Act on Site, a workplace culture change program focused on recruitment policies and support for women; and See What You Can Be, which addresses learning, education and apprenticeship pathways for women into male-dominated industries.

Ms Hendron said both programs were evaluated after being implemented by several businesses in the Grampians region in recent years, with participants reporting good outcomes for workplace culture and increased recruitment of women into non-traditional roles

Gordon Street Reserve party

Ararat Rural City Council is inviting the community to enjoy a free sausage sizzle and children’s sporting activities as it celebrates the opening of new sporting grounds and a pavilion at Gordon Street Reserve.

The multi-use pavilion is a centrepiece of the redevelopment, with new and improved facilities including: female friendly change rooms; multi-sport club facilities; a social space with kitchen and bar; new and upgraded competition-standard playing surfaces for senior and junior soccer, football and cricket; purposebuilt Little Athletics facilities; and new lighting, landscaping, walkways, accessible parking and improved irrigation and drainage.

The $4.725 million project received more than $1.86 million in Federal Government support through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, $2.55 million from the State Government’s Community Sport and Infrastructure Stimulus Program and $315,000 from the council.

“Together, we can create respectful, inclusive and productive workplaces, and we can show young women the various career pathways in manufacturing and energy that are open to them.”

Act on Site consultant Katja Fiedler said WHG had already received expressions of interest from Wim-

“We are delighted to continue our vital work with majority male businesses, this time with a focus on the Wimmera region,” she said. “Act on Site is a great development opportunity for manufacturing and energy businesses who are aiming to become an employer of choice for all genders.

mera businesses keen to diversify their workforces.

“This funding allows us to engage with motivated regional employers and, in the medium to long term, will give the Wimmera’s young people more options and opportunities for staying in the region,” she said.

Ms Hutchins said the Women in Energy and Manufacturing funding program was part of a State Government effort to address recommendations from the 2022 Inquiry into economic equity for Victorian women, which centred on attracting, recruiting and

retaining women in majority-men industries.

“Supporting women to enter, stay and progress in energy and manufacturing careers is a win, win situation for women and Victoria’s industry employers,” she said.

“These grants support better economic outcomes for women, help organisations address skills shortages in some of Victoria’s strongest growth sectors and contribute to driving greater gender equality across the state.”

Council chief executive Tim Harrison said the council led the redevelopment with the endorsement and participation of AFL Victoria, Football Victoria, Cricket Victoria and Little Athletics Victoria.

“We’re excited to invite the community to come and see the new facilities,” Dr Harrison said.

“We’re proud to provide a premium sporting facility to better accommodate our sporting clubs, as well as benefit the wider community.”

The celebration will be on Thursday, June 27 from 4pm to 5.30pm and people wishing to attend can register online for catering purposes via website www.trybooking.com/CRLBR.

FUNDING WIN: Women’s Health Grampians Act on Site consultant Katja Fiedler and See What You Can Be project co-ordinator Ange van den Berg celebrate the funding win to further the two programs.

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New kindergarten for Nhill

Nhill will receive an extra oneroom kindergarten next year as part of the State Government’s expansion of its kinder program.

The extra room will be located at Nhill College – in line with the government’s plan to co-located kindergartens alongside schools – and a short distance from the existing centre on vacant land in Whitehead Avenue.

The additional room will cater for a further 33 places for children to complete 30 hours of pre-prep.

Development of the new kinder space is already underway, with site works commencing earlier this month in readiness for the arrival of the new modular building this week.

Modular kindergartens are constructed off-site in a factory, which allows for quicker construction time, reducing costs and risk.

Once delivered to site, contractors will complete construction of the building, with a playground and landscaping to follow.

Hindmarsh Shire Council Mayor Brett Ireland said the addition would complement the existing Nhill Early Years Centre’s current kinder and long day care programs, which were operated on behalf of council by Wimmera early years’ service provider, Emerge.

“This is great news for families and the wider community within Hindmarsh,” he said.

Cr Ireland said the new modular kinder building was a fantastic addition for local families and also of interest for those considering the move to Nhill.

“The new building ensures our early years facilities can continue to meet the needs of families with young children starting their education journey,” he said.

Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn last week announced locations of the five new kindergartens across Victoria, funded through a $13.8 million government investment, with all set to open their doors in term one, 2025.

“We’re delivering more early childhood services right across Victoria,

ACTIVE PARTICIPATION: Australian Driving Institute uses public roads for its courses, enabling participants to experience gravel and bitumen surfaces while learning how to control their vehicle in adverse conditions.

Defensive driving course returns

Harrow Bush Nursing Centre and Harrow Neighbourhood House will again host defensive driving programs by the Australian Driving Institute, ADI.

It marks the 12th year the centre has partnered with the ADI to deliver the programs for people of the region.

The courses, on July 13 and 14, are designed for drivers of all ages and experience levels, and received funding from the State Government’s Engage! program through West Wimmera Shire Council.

On offer on both days is an

AUSTDRIVE 1 program, a one-day course designed for 16 to 21-year-olds who hold a learner, probationary or full licence.

Each participant is required to attend with a vehicle and L-plate drivers must have an accompanying fully licensed driver.

An AUSTDRIVE 2 program for younger, less experienced drivers between ages 18 and 25 who hold a probationary or full licence is also on offer, involving in-vehicle training with an instructor.

Bookings are open for one, two or three young drivers to undertake the AUSTDRIVE 2 course together.

Professional and corporate individuals and organisations seeking to develop defensive and preventative driving can participate in a road safety program, with one instructor in a vehicle with three participants.

All training is fully accredited and comprises a full day of practical and theoretical knowledge on road safety.

The practical element of the course is conducted on public roads, enabling participants to experience gravel and bitumen surfaces while learning how to control their vehicle in adverse conditions.

ADI courses aim to deliver best-practice standards for drivers, with participants who complete the training receiving an ADI certificate.

People can register online at www.austdrive.com or call Harrow Bush Nursing Centre on 5588 2000 for more information.

so even more children and families can benefit from quality play-based learning before they start school,” Ms Blandthorn said

“These new modular kinders will give more children in some of our fastest growing areas the chance to attend a great local kindergarten, where they can learn, play and make new friends.”

The government allocated $283 million in the 2019-2020 Budget for three-year-old kindergarten capital funding, which will allow for the expansion of kindergartens across Victoria to cater for the delivery of 15 hours of three-year-old kindergarten each week by 2029 and 30 hours of pre-prep each week by 2036.

Book release

Wimmera publisher Bible Tales Online is set to release a new young adult fiction book from Victorian author Mark Morgan set in the Grampians National Park.

Morgan’s book ‘Beyond the Western Margin’ is set in an alternate future where dangerous mutations to the COVID-19 pandemic cause society to begin to unravel.

Morgan has previously written several historical novels, this is his first foray into speculative fiction.

The novel follows 17-year-old Dan and his family who leave Melbourne after another COVID-19 outbreak to shelter in Grampians National Park, encountering mysterious circumstances beyond government control. Visit bibletales.online/books/# ChristianFiction to find out more.

Enter your recipe before 28 June for your chance to be chosen for the competition final in August

Scan the code for more info and to enter the competition

The winner will walk (or skip) away with a $500 gift voucher to Robertson’s Furniture in Horsham!

June 28 - take Friday a ernoon off with your mates and enjoy live racing action at the Warracknabeal races.

Heated, undercover, with a bookie onsite – it’s not one to miss!

Students deliver ‘crazy’ ideas

Ararat students took part in a unique program last week that focused on equipping them with the confidence and skills to bring their ideas to life.

The Social Innovators Program, led by Crazy Ideas College at Alexandra Oval Community Centre, blended elements of human-centred design, future thinking and innovation to open the region’s students to creative problem-solving and social entrepreneurship.

Across two days, 60 students from Marian and Ararat colleges discussed

HEART HEALTH IN

SPOTLIGHT: Shane Warne Legacy heart screen pharmacist Megan Barker, right, helps nursing student Jessica Hill with a heart test at Federation University Horsham campus. High rates of cardiovascular disease in the Mallee electorate prompted the Shane Warne Legacy to make the region a top priority for heart screenings. The 2021 census showed there were 9019 people living with heart disease in Mallee – the 11th highest in Australia. The screenings involved a finger prick blood test measuring full cholesterol and a four-minute health station check, with results discussed with a clinician including follow-up actions and advice.

issues important to them and worked to generate innovative ideas about those issues, with a focus on how their ideas could work in the community.

Students’ ideas included an anti-bullying intraschool mural; a morning tea bringing the community’s young and older people together; and a marine animal sponsorship program in which participants can also track the oceanic movements of their chosen animal.

Student groups presented their pitches to one of two panels made of partners from local community groups.

Panel participants included Narissa

Gee from Central Grampians LLEN, Inga Hamilton from Sustainability Victoria, Teli Kaur from Ararat Neighbourhood House, Toby Steele from Ararat RSL, Ararat Rural City councillor Peter Beales, Mitre 10 owner Simon Jones, deputy mayor Jo Armstrong and council chief executive Tim Harrison.

Dr Harrison praised the students’ ideas on practical implementation and research into their selected issues.

He said the program partners recognised the value of connecting businesses and communities to a pipeline of talented young people, and bring-

ing actionable projects to life. He said community partner organisations provided feedback to students, helping them develop their ideas.

“Crazy Ideas College is fantastic at igniting young minds and nurturing students’ truly ingenious new ideas,”

Dr Harrison said.

Crazy Ideas College will continue to deliver programs for Ararat’s high school students across the school year and into 2025, aimed at cultivating problem-solving skills, originality, and social responsibility.

Funding to boost tourism

Member for Lowan Emma Kealy is encouraging all eligible organisations to apply for the next round of the Regional Events Fund grants.

Grants of up to $500,000 will be open to organisers of festivals, sports events, exhibitions and more to attract and grow events of international or national significance, while grants of up to $50,000 will be available for marketing and support of events that attract intrastate and interstate visitors.

“We have some truly world-class events in this region largely run by a volunteer base, but they will always need financial support,” Ms Kealy said.

“Whether it be the Wimmera Machinery Field Days, the Stawell Gift, or Murtoa’s Big Weekend, there is truly something for everyone at our local events.

“Making sure these events can attract as many people as possible will be incredibly important for the economic future of our towns and local organisations, and this fund will help with that.

“We want to attract more people to visit regional Victoria, have them stay locally, and increase the amount of money spent in our local communities.

“It would be great to see as many communities as possible benefit from this funding to ensure our regional towns continue to get the support they deserve.”

Applications for the Regional Events Fund, delivered by Visit Victoria, can be made at corporate.visitvictoria. com/events/regional-events-fund from now until June 30.

Ms Kealy said she would be happy to provide letters of support for eligible applications.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

•

INAUGURAL SHOW: Ararat Regional Theatre Society, ARTS, will stage its inaugural production across the next two weekends, with the globallypopular Andrew Lloyd Webber musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Directed by Leanne McCready, Scott Rigby plays the lead of Joseph, with Emily Friedrichsen and Chrisine Bulger as the narrators. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat will be staged in Ararat Town Hall on Friday at 7.30pm and Saturday at 7.30pm, with a 1.30pm matinee performance on Sunday. Three performances will be on the following weekend, June 28 to 30, at the same times. Tickets are available through Ararat Town Hall website https:// ararattownhall.com.au, by calling 1800 657 158, or in person at Ararat and Grampians Visitor Information Centre. Pictured during a full dress rehearsal on Sunday are, clockwise from left: Ian McCready as Potiphar; Narrator Christine Bulger, Bryan Kennedy, Jacob, and Margaret Arnup; Bulger, Shania Atkins and Danae Atkins; Jodie Holwell, Butler, with Rigby, Joseph; Rigby with his brothers; Ishmaelites Sally Bond, Deb Slorach, Sue Horvath and Makayla Fell; and centre, Aubrey Wineberg. For

For Sale by Tender 4561 Henty Highway, Haven

Prime industrial site

This expansive industrial property boasts an ideal location on the Henty Highway, offering potential for subdivision subject to council approval.

* Freehold with vacant possession, presenting a clean site with workshop and office (all cars, parts, and shipping containers to be excluded)

* Approx. 2.19 hectares (source: PriceFinder)

* Zoning: IN1Z (Industrial Zone 1

* Tenders close on the 19th of July 2024 at 12:00

Please note that the business is not included in the sale.

Subdividing land

I have many clients ask me how they go about subdividing their land.

In this article I will explain what subdivision is, how to find out if your land can be subdivided and the process for subdividing land.

What is subdivision?

Subdivision is when one piece of land is divided into two or more individual lots. Each lot is then able to be sold separately.

Wimmera residents often consider whether subdividing their land is possible and whether it will increase the value of their land.

Not all land can be subdivided. You will need to determine if the relevant planning scheme allows your land to be subdivided and if a planning permit will be required.

A planning scheme is the document that regulates what can be done with your land, including its use and possible development.

Your local council should be able to provide information about whether subdivision is possible and issues you might need to consider.

Proceeding with a subdivision

If, after speaking to your local council you decide to subdivide your land, you will need to engage a land surveyor to prepare a plan of subdivision.

This plan of subdivision will show the location of your title boundary and create new title boundaries. The Association of Consulting Surveyors Victoria’s website, www.acsv.com. au will help determine who your local surveyor is and provide their contact details.

When engaging your surveyor, provide them with your solicitor’s details to ensure the process is able to flow as quickly as possible. It is worthwhile discussing your plans with your tax adviser to ensure there are no unintended tax consequences.

Planning permit

Usually, you will be required to apply for a planning permit from your local council. Horsham Rural City Council website allows

it’s THE LAW

with

Patrick Smith,

LL.B. (Hons) B. Int. St., B.Ec., GDLP

you to apply online – they estimate the process will take about 15 minutes.

Alternatively, you can complete the form and take it into the council’s offices along with all other required documents.

Your application for a planning permit might be referred to gas, water, telecommunication or electricity authorities who may require certain conditions to be satisfied before the subdivision is approved, such as an easement on the new plan in favour of their service.

Once the planning permit is approved the plan of subdivision must be certified by your local council. All the servicing authorities must consent to plan’s certification.

Once the plan is certified, the council must also issue you a statement of compliance.

Registration

Once the council has certified the plan and issued a certificate of compliance the plan will be released to your solicitor for lodgement with the Victorian Register of Land.

To enable your solicitor to act on your behalf you will be required to complete a client authorisation form and verify your identity. Your solicitor will advise you once the process is complete.

• Patrick Smith is the principal of O’Brien and Smith Lawyers. This article is intended to be used as a guide only. It is not, and is not intended to be, advice on any specific matter. Neither Patrick nor O’Brien and Smith Lawyers accept responsibility for any acts or omissions resulting from reliance upon the content of this article. Before acting on the basis of any material in this article, it is recommend you consult your lawyer.

Ararat Rural City Council

the first of several

from Melbourne’s western suburbs earlier this month, aimed at

jobseekers looking for a new start to the region.

Potential residents explore Ararat

Ararat hosted the first of several planned bus tours as part of an Ararat Settlement Activity program earlier this month.

The project, created by Ararat Rural City Council, is funded by the Wyndham Community Education Centre.

Previously named the Ararat New Settlement Program – a venture that attracted more than 40 new residents into long-term jobs in the region – the bus tour marked the continuation of a partnership between the council and the Wyndham Community Education Centre.

The tour began at Wyndham with a chartered bus collecting 10 participants, whose nationalities included Burmese, Chin, Kongo and Ethiopian.

Stops included Ararat’s visitor information centre, Gasons, AME Systems, Ararat Town Hall, Alexandra Gardens and Ararat Community Garden, Ararat Neighbourhood House, several primary and secondary schools, Green Hill Lake and One Tree Hill lookout.

Council chief executive Tim Harrison said while the tour focused on attracting job seekers from Melbourne’s west-

ern suburbs, the program also extended to other culturally and linguistically diverse job seekers looking for a new start in Ararat.

“The Ararat Settlement Activity bus tour is a terrific way to showcase the potential of our community to newcomers seeking a new start,” he said.

“We offer a supportive and welcoming environment, exciting job prospects, and excellent infrastructure.”

Dr Harrison said the council expected to receive further interest in upcoming bus tours scheduled this year.

JOINT VENTURE:

hosted

planned bus tours

attracting

Farming with transmission lines

Around 6,500 km of transmission lines currently operate in Victoria, many of which successfully coexist with farming and agriculture.

TCV will work closely with farmers in the VNI West draft corridor to find the best location for a new 500Kv transmission line - with the least impact on farm operations and productivity.

Machinery up to 5m high can operate under transmission lines, and taller machinery up to 8.6m may also be used subject to a safety assessment. TCV will work with the Transmission Network Service Provider responsible for VNI West operation to publish guidelines on this assessment.

For information on farming with transmission, along with details about the conditions for machinery use and farming activities, visit the TCV website and access our Farming with Transmission fact sheet.

Farming activities which take place in transmission easements:

Pictured: 3WM & Mixx FM Promotions Manager Kaycee Tickner, winner Alisha Ellis from Horsham and Julie Stewart, store manager of Kevin Paisley Optometrists, Horsham.

Navigating divorce

Adjusting to life after divorce, particularly later in life, is akin to navigating through some of life’s most challenging events, psychologists say.

It is a journey comparable to coping with loss, relocation, major illness or injury, or job loss.

While the upheavals are often beyond our control, how we choose to manage them greatly impacts our recovery.

Is grey divorce on the rise? Unfortunately, yes.

Despite overall divorce rates declining since the 1990s, both the age at divorce and the rate of divorces among couples in long-term marriages are on the rise.

Data from Australian Seniors and the ABS shows 32 percent of divorces now occur after the age of 50.

Key financial impacts

Superannuation is typically regarded as part of the assets in any pre-divorce financial settlement. Understanding that superannuation can be divided without the need for fund withdrawals or meeting specific conditions is crucial if no prior agreement has been reached with your partner.

While splitting it isn’t obligatory, ensuring its inclusion in the settlement is vital due to its significant role in overall wealth.

However, dividing it can substantially diminish what was once a solid nest egg, potentially impacting retirement plans.

Aside from the emotional toll of

FINANCE focus

with Robert Goudie CFP GradDipFP

asset division, the process can be difficult. Factors such as investment properties, primary residences, or self-managed super funds, SMSFs, with less liquid assets – such as business holdings, real estate, closed funds, or art – can further complicate matters.

Selling assets without proper advice can trigger capital gains, while shifting assets from tax shelters like superannuation or trusts can result in hefty tax liabilities.

Centrelink entitlements and thresholds will also alter with your changed circumstances.

Seeking the professional advice of more than just a lawyer is the smartest thing to do.

It’s expensive

Many shared expenses, such as utilities, become the sole responsibility of each party post-divorce.

For instance, while the average monthly living expenses for an Australian couple total about $4118 or $2059 per person, for a single person living alone, it is estimated at $2835.

In essence, each individual spends roughly 70 percent of what a couple would spend.

After divorce, with each person potentially having only half of their assets but needing about 70 percent of their income to cover living

expenses, budgets become tight. So how can you rebuild financial stability post-divorce?

• Ensure you have updated your superannuation death nominations. You might want to change your beneficiaries or lock in a binding nomination if you don’t have one.

• Review your will and confirm it reflects your current situation. If something were to happen, ensure that the right people inherit your assets.

• Consider strategies to rebuild or manage retirement savings, investments, and income. For instance, a recontribution strategy can help you reduce potential tax on any inheritance by converting taxable amounts into tax-free amounts.

• Revise your budget and expectations for retirement. Consider taking on different levels of risk.

• Be sure to seek advice on Centrelink entitlements. Thresholds can differ, and you might be entitled to benefits you were not entitled to pre-divorce.

• Evaluate debt. Consider how much, if any, debt you should take on to re-enter the property market or rebuild assets.

In other words, review your financial plan and seek professional advice. A qualified financial adviser can help you learn to take control of your finances and plan your future.

Remember, the benefits of compounding mean that the sooner you start, the better off you will be.

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

FEELING: Pictured admiring the Flow and Thrive artwork is dialysis clinical nurse specialist Je Vic Solante.

Dialysis art an inspiration

A new artwork on display in Wimmera Cancer Centre’s dialysis unit is providing inspiration to more than just those viewing it.

When dialysis associate nurse unit manager Cath Tischler saw a picture of an Aboriginal artwork titled Flow and Thrive from Kidney Health Australia, she liked it so much that she decided to get it reproduced into a Perspex wall feature.

The artwork was commissioned through the group Caring for Australian and New Zealanders with Kidney Impairment, CARI, by an unknown artist.

Ms Tischler said the artwork had proved popular with staff and dialysis patients, and other dialysis centres wanted to install similar displays.

She said Flow and Thrive represented the stages of living with a kidney condition – turbulent waters symbolise challenges kidney patients face, mangroves remind viewers of resilience and strength, and the sunrise is a sign of hope.

The boats in the river represent the family, friends and support networks, while medical practitioners and clinicians are also represented in the art.

We HAVE your community covered

Ford Capri revival

It has been a coupe and a convertible. Now, the venerable Capri nameplate looks set to be worn by an electric SUV – or at least a coupe-SUV.

According to sources, Ford will unveil the second fully-electric model to be built at its Cologne plant next month, following the recently launched Explorer compact SUV.

That model – and the forthcoming Capri – share Volkswagen Group MEB architecture.

Coupe-SUV bodies were spotted at the Cologne plant recently, leading to speculation that the ‘more coupe-like’ model will bear the Capri nameplate.

Ford has not confirmed the Capri name, but has teased the existence of a second model to come from the Cologne plant, describing the mystery vehicle simply as an electric sports crossover.

It is expected the Capri’s relationship to the Explorer would be like that of the Volkswagen ID.4 SUV and ID.5 coupe-SUV duo.

The famed badge dates to the Capri fastback sold between 1968 and 1986, and the Australian-made MX-5 rival produced between 1989 and 1994. Capri is one of several Ford nameplates repurposed or reinvented for the SUV age, including the Mustang (Mach-E), Kuga (Cougar), and Puma – now the

brand’s best-selling vehicle in Europe.

Ford began production of the allelectric Explorer at its former Fiesta facility in Cologne last month.

Ford Europe and International Markets Group vice-president of manufacturing Kieran Cahill said to see the Cologne factory founded by Ford in 1930 being transformed into a stateof-the-art electric vehicle production facility was ‘nothing short of amazing’.

“The start of mass production of electric vehicles, with the new allelectric Explorer, marks the beginning of a new era for Ford in Europe,” he said.

The Explorer is the first battery electric vehicle, BEV, to roll off the production line at the Ford Cologne Electric Vehicle Centre, and one Ford says marks a significant step on the road to producing a new generation of high-quality electric passenger vehicles for the region.

“A second EV, a new sports crossover, will be revealed shortly with production in Cologne starting this year,”

Ford stated.

The five-seat Explorer BEV is available in three grades: an entry-spec rear-wheel drive with a 52kWh battery and 125kW output; a mid-tier grade with rear-wheel drive, larger 77kWh battery and 210kW output;

and a range-topping all-wheel drive dual-motor variant with the same 77kWh battery and 250kW output.

DC fast charging can replenish the smaller battery pack at a capacity of up to 130kW, while the larger battery pack supports a charging capacity of up to 170kW. A 10 to 80 percent charge is said to take just 25 minutes.

Ford says the Explorer BEV receives its own suspension tune with a familiar MacPherson strut front and multilink rear arrangement providing a ‘different driving experience’ to the Volkswagen derivative.

The 2024 Ford Explorer BEV measures 4450mm in length, giving it a similar stature to the Honda HR-V, Nissan Qashqai or Toyota Corolla Cross. It will be offered in two model

grades in Europe: Explorer and Explorer Premium, each with a generous list of standard equipment.

Ford’s 15-inch SYNC Move central infotainment array offers a moveable, portrait-oriented display that combines wireless app integration with a tailored audio package and advanced driver assistance technology.

The screen conceals a storage cubby ahead of the centre console, which itself offers a separate compartment of 17 litres.

The ‘ultra-modern’ interior combines premium materials and sculpted sports seats across two rows.

Like many EVs, pre-conditioning of the cabin’s climate is possible, the space also boasting heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, a mas-

saging driver’s seat, dual-zone climate control, as well as keyless entry and start.

Further back, and with access via an optional handsfree electric tailgate, the Explorer EV provides ‘about 470 litres’ of cargo space in five-seat mode. Advanced driver assistance systems include assisted lane change and clear exit assist among a raft of active and passive safety systems.

Speaking to GoAuto about the possibility of an Explorer EV for Australia last year, a local spokesperson said simply, ‘while we have no plans to introduce the all-electric Explorer in Australia, we’re looking forward to sharing the next phase of our EV journey very soon’.

– Matt Brogan

Six-figure price tag likely for MG

MG MOTOR is readying the launch of its first all-electric convertible in the Australian market, the Chinese built Cyberster ushering in a new market sector for Australian and New Zealand buyers.

Order books for the MG Cyberster are now open, with MG Motor Australia national sales manager Brad Chruszcz suggesting a price tag of between $100,000 and $150,000 should be expected when the model is launched in the fourth quarter of this year.

“We are really excited to be opening dealer orders and our official registeryour-interest for our all-electric roadster, the Cyberster, featuring signature scissor doors as envisioned by Carl Gotham and his MG London design team,” he said.

“Remember the original MG? Small and affordable, fun-driving roadsters like the 1960s’ and 1970s’ MBG and 1990s’ MG F? Well, decades later it’s back and thriving with the Cyberster, and I’m so excited to get our customers into these cars.”

Far from resembling the affordable aspect of its forebears, the MG Cyberster will wear a hefty price tag, far more than those of its internal combustion engine, ICE, powered rivals.

“Dealers are taking orders as we

speak with the manufacturer’s suggested retail price range falling between $100,000 and $150,000 before on-road costs. Exact pricing will be finalised closer to the launch date,” Mr Chruszcz said.

“The Cyberster will be offered with a fully electric folding fabric roof available in either a deep red or black,

which can be opened or closed in as little as 15 seconds.

“At this stage, the all-wheel drive Cyberster promises to be a compelling yet refined drive, as we’re only looking to bring the 77kWh all-wheel drive variant to Australian shores.”

While local specifications have not yet been confirmed, MG Motor says

Hyundai announces name of tiny BEV

Hyundai has named the all-electric version of its pint-sized Casper SUV ‘Inster’, in what it says is an ‘intimate and innovative’ title that reflects the desires of up-and-coming battery electric vehicle buyers.

Due to go on sale in Europe later this year, the Hyundai Inster will be marketed as an entry-level electric vehicle with a likely start price of less than $32,650 on the continent.

Setting its sights on similarly priced Chinese rivals, the Inster will utilise a modified version of the four-seat Hyundai Casper’s chassis and body, altered only to accommodate the highvoltage battery, necessary cooling equipment and electric motors.

Hyundai’s petrol-powered Casper range remains unaltered.

Hyundai Motor Europe vice-presi-

dent of marketing, product and public relations Andreas-Christoph Hofmann said the automotive landscape in Europe was changing and electrification was at the forefront, with a vision of a sustainable future.

“Hyundai is leading the way. By 2035 we will only sell electric cars in Europe,” he said.

“On the way to this goal, we remain committed to expanding our electric line-up to cater to every lifestyle of the European market.

“We are proud to introduce you to the latest addition to Hyundai’s EV line-up, Inster.

“The name Inster stands for intimate and innovative. It celebrates its audience’s love for seamless interaction and connectivity.

“It is perfectly aligned with their

fast-paced digital lifestyle. It reflects Inster’s innovative tech character and versatility.”

Mr Hofmann said the Inster would offer an electric alternative to the Casper, giving Hyundai an entrant in an important – and expanding – segment of the European market.

“Inster is Hyundai’s first ever A segment electric car designed especially for the European market, and this car is coming at just the right time,” he said.

“The market and customers want an affordable EV many of our competitors will be introducing new models in this segment.

“It is expected that sales in the segment will experience a strong increase year on year.”

–

Matt Brogan

the Cyberster is set to offer ‘electrifying performance’ combined with ‘a luxurious and technologically advanced cabin’.

“The Cyberster pays respect to 100 years of MG creating vehicles that people love to drive,” Mr Chruszcz said.

“I want it to be Q4 already so we can

share our first ground-up, all-electric roadster with Aussie enthusiasts.

“We will be bringing limited numbers of these cars into the country, so it’ll definitely be a case of supply versus demand given the interest we’ve already had from the public and our 90-plus dealers.”

Intended as an electric rival to the likes of the BMW Z4 and Porsche 718 Boxster, the MG Cyberster is poised to offer a 77kWh battery integrated within the chassis and a 400kW dualmotor output figure.

MG Motor has said previously the all-wheel drive Cyberster can accelerate from standstill to 100kmh in less than three seconds.

The Cyberster tips the scale at 1895kg in dual motor form and measures 4535mm in length, 1913mm in width, and 1329mm in height.

Highlight features include a yokestyle steering wheel with variable gearing, multiple digital screens for instrumentation and infotainment, and styling cues including a low set nose, scissor style doors and Kammback style rear end.

Full specifications and pricing for the 2024 MG Cyberster will be released closer to the model’s launch in the fourth quarter of the year.

– Matt Brogan

RIVAL: In Europe, the Inster will rival the likes of the Citroen e-C3 and Dacia Spring, as well as imports including the BYD Dolphin, GWM Ora, Kia Ray and MG 4.

Details firm on Audi e-tron range

Audi

Australia has released further details of its incoming Q4 e-tron range, an important all-electric model that will take the fight to the likes of the BMW iX1, Lexus UX300e, Mercedes-Benz EQA-Class, and Tesla Model Y.

The model is due in showrooms from the fourth quarter of this year, as the German importer awaits production of the facelifted range.

The range will be priced from $88,300 plus on-road costs in Q4 45 SUV e-tron and sportback e-tron guise and $108,500 and $109,500 respectively for the Q4 55 SUV e-tron quattro and Q4 55 sportback e-tron quattro.

The range will be generously equipped from the get-go, with an extensive inventory of connectivity, infotainment, mechanical and safety kit.

The ‘45’ badged duo offer a 210kW550Nm single motor driving the rear wheels to deliver a zero to 100kmh acceleration time of 6.7 seconds, while the ‘55’ badged variants offer dual motors totalling 250kW-679Nm and all-wheel drive, a 5.4 second zero to 100kmh time.

Top speed is electronically limited to 180kmh.

Both powertrains feature an 82kWh battery pack with the ‘45’ offering DC fast charging at up to 135kW and the ‘55’ at up to 175kW.

A 10 to 80 percent charge time of about 28 minutes is expected, while three on-board regenerative modes offer as much as 0.3g of braking recuperation.

In other markets, the Q4 e-tron offers a driving range of up to 562km in ‘45’ format.

Sitting in the ‘sweet spot’ for Australian buyers – within the popular medium SUV segment – the Audi Q4 e-tron measures 4600mm in length and rides upon a 2760mm wheelbase.

Audi Australia confirmed some of the standard equipment levels for the Q4 45 e-tron as follows: metallic paint, 19-inch alloy wheels, heated and power folding door mirrors, tow bar preparation, electric tailgate, roof rails, and LED daytime running lights. Inside, the variant adds leatherette upholstery, heated front seats, electric driver seat adjustment, convenience key, storage package, tri-zone climate control, MMI navigation plus, Audi smartphone interface and virtual cockpit, phone box light, and an Audi sound system.

Safety kit extends to high beam assist, rear view camera, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, Audi Pre Sense, and side assist.

For Australian variants, Audi has made the Q4 e-tron available with its customisable matrix LED headlights and intelligent augmented reality head-up display.

Standard features on ‘45’ variants include LED headlights, metallic paint, a powered tailgate, Audi virtual cockpit with two display options, leather appointed upholstery, heated front seats, and tri-zone climate control.

The ‘55’ adds matrix LED headlights with digital light signatures, S line styling signature, sports front

The numbers provide the SUV with 520-1490 litres of cargo space, depending on seating configuration and the Sportback a deceptive 535-1460 litres.

seats with S embossing, Audi virtual cockpit plus with three display options, and coloured LED ambient cabin lighting.

Audi Australia corporate communications executive Claudia Muller said the Q4 e-tron would be priced from $88,300 and would be under the luxury car tax.

“This is a car we’re obviously very excited to finally get here in Australia.

“We’ve updated arrival timings for this car because we have waited for the improved model, so those cars will be arriving for our customers in the fourth quarter of this year.”

The sportback variant adds 20-inch wheels and Audi’s S line exterior styling package.

The Q4 55 SUV e-tron has 20-inch wheels and Audi’s S line exterior styling package, Matrix LED headlights, LED tail-lights, Audi virtual cockpit plus, front sport seats with electric adjustment, door mirror memory function, and a flat top and bottom steering wheel.

Additional safety equipment includes a 360-degree camera, park assist and active lane assist.

The Q4 55 sportback e-tron has 21inch wheels as the only addition over the SUV variant.

– Matt Brogan

Michael

“The

Michael

Michael

If you are just beginning your driving chapter or looking to re-boost some confidence in your driving skills and confidence on the road, Michael at Horsham Driving School is your experienced and knowledgable driving instructor.

Michael can be contacted on 0417 352 403, website www.horshamdrivingschool. com or via his newly revamped Facebook Page; Horsham Driving School.

LOCAL TRADE DIRECTORY

TRUCK HIRE

on unprecedented reader and listener demand, we encourage regional tradebased businesses to become part of The Weekly Advertiserʼs Local Trade Directory. The Local Trade Directory offers the only true multi-media platform combining print, radio and online services for businesses to ʻspread the wordʼ in across the Wimmera, Mallee and Grampians.

affordable and effective!

a small weekly investment you will receive an advertisement (as above) PLUS... Receive bonus radio credit mentions on MIXX FM and 3WM throughout your paper advertising period.

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

Quick Workout

Fit the numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 into the hexagons so that where the hexagons touch, the numbers will be the same. No number is repeated in any hexagon.

Fit the given numbers into the hexagons so that where the hexagons touch, the numbers will be the same No number is repeated in any hexagon

Whillier

Excellent: 31 words

tAKe A BreAK

From The Weekly Advertiser archives: June 17, 2004 –Bennett Road Kindergarten students, back from left, Adam Evans, Meggy Ballinger, Mackenzie Connelly, Makenzi Kennett and Lochie Hateley, and front, Bree Netherway, Kaylee Schmidt, Baylee McLean and Rebekah Evans, promoted a discount book fundraiser, which offered purchasers a chance to save money at 30 Horsham businesses, including jewellers, sports shops, butchers, hairdressers, bakeries and florists.

10 years ago: June 18, 2014

Leadership Wimmera alumni organised a network event, where a panel of social, political, economic, environmental and technological experts would talk about what the Wimmera would look like in 2030. Fronted by political scientist Geoff Robinson, the event included analysis and mapping out how to achieve specific goals.

Five years ago: June 19, 2019

Melbourne aviation enthusiasts had the opportunity to fly to Nhill Air Show in a vintage Douglas DC-3 before returning to Melbourne the next day. The DC-3 airliner revolutionised air transport in the 1930s and 1940s, becoming the world’s more successful commercial aircraft. There were 28 tickets available at a cost of $550 each.

One year ago: June 21, 2023

Donald 2000 – a committee of Donald residents – commissioned artist Chris Fussell to craft a ‘big kookaburra’ to create interest at the town and link in with the nearby silo art trail. The kookaburra, built at Mr Fussell’s home in New South Wales, would be transported in three parts and set up in front of the Kooka’s Country Cookies factory. on

1. Which European nation was said to invent hot dogs?

2. Who was the famous nurse known for her work during the Crimean War and is considered the founder of modern nursing?

3. Wotjobaluk elder Kevin Coombs, originally from the Wimmera, is a significant national sporting figure. He represented Australia at five Paralympics in what sport?

4. What was the name of the rock band formed by Jimmy Page?

5. Romulus and Remus were raised by what animal?

6. What Danish author is considered by many to be the most prolific fairy tale writer?

7. What fashion fad did the 1983 film Flashdance make popular?

8. What is the longest-running Broadway show?

9. First opening on this day in 1973 in London, was which stage production written by Richard O’Brian, directed by Jim Sharman and starred Tim Curry?

10. The works of which notable Australian painter, stationed in the district while in the Australian Army, are in the National Gallery of Victoria’s collection and depict Dimboola district landscapes?

Answers:1. Germany. 2. Florence Nightingale. 3. Wheelchair basketball. 4. Led Zeppelin. 5. A she-wolf. 6. Hans Christian Andersen. 7. Legwarmers. 8. The Phantom of the Opera. 9. The Rocky Horror Show. 10. Sidney Nolan.

your lucKy stArs With Kerry KulKens

FOR THE WEEK JUNE 22 TO JUNE 28

ARIES: (March 21-April 20)

Lucky Colour: Peach

Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 3.4.5.6. Lotto Numbers: 1,14,23,34,43,6, It was a very hectic period on the social scene, with plenty of romance in the air. You have plenty of energy and feel motivated to undertake specific tasks. If still unattached, look for someone at libraries or through your relatives.

TAURUS: (April 21-May 20)

Lucky Colour: Yellow

Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 7,8,4,5, Lotto Numbers: 6,8,3,42,23,31, If you are still available, someone from the past may make you an offer you will find hard to refuse. Your passions are more stimulated through intellectual conversation rather than sexual actions.

GEMINI: (May 21-June 21)

Lucky Colour: Cream

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 8,9,3,4, Lotto Numbers: 8,2,13,34,45,22, Many could be having a romantic evening at home or a friend’s place. It is an excellent time to start new ventures; don’t take unnecessary risks.

CANCER: (June 22-July 22)

Lucky Colour: Mauve

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 7,8,9,4, Lotto Numbers: 7,8,12,23,34,45, Your social scene will be greatly expanded this time. You will have a very hectic social calendar and need plenty of energy to fulfil all your obligations. So, better get organised.

LEO: (July 23-August 22)

Lucky Colour: Pink

Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 7,8,4,3, Lotto Numbers: 5,7,12,23,34,41, Many will be encountering a new and exciting romance during their travels. Also, the career opportunities are beautiful at the moment.

VIRGO: (August 23-September 23)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 8,9,3,4, Lotto Numbers: 1,14,23,34,45,11, This period seems to be rather lucky for you, both romantically and gamblingwise. Many will undertake some trip that has aroused their interest.

LIBRA: (September 24-October 23)

Lucky Colour: Orange

Lucky Day: Thursday

Racing Numbers: 8,9,1,4, Lotto Numbers: 6,8,23,34,44,12

If you want to socialise, it is not good to sit at home. Go out and enjoy yourself, meet new friends, and possibly join some sort of organisation or club. Also, do something special with loved ones.

SCORPIO: (October 24-November 22)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 7,8,1,3, Lotto Numbers: 1,6,23,35,34,4, Someone seems interested in getting acquainted with you, so keep your eyes open; it might be exciting! You may be more in demand than you think.

SAGITTARIUS: (November 23-December 20)

Lucky Colour: Cream

Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 6,8,3,2, Lotto Numbers: 2,7,13,35,41,11, Many will be finding their soul mate during this period. Make sure that you don’t miss out! Go to the races and have a little flutter; you may catch more than a four-legged winner.

CAPRICORN: (December 21-January 19)

Lucky Colour: Dark Blue

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 6,3,4,5 Lotto Numbers: 1,5,23,34,41,22, Many will be enjoying quality time at home with their loved ones. New job opportunities are in the pipeline. You could organise some social parties at home.

AQUARIUS: (January 20-February 19)

Lucky Colour: Fawn

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 7,9,3,1, Lotto Numbers: 1,15,23,34,35,44, When entering a new relationship, ensure you are understood and your intentions are clear. Travel is also indicated.

PISCES: (February 20-March 20)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 1,5,2,3, Lotto Numbers: 1,5,23,21,29,33, You could find yourself the centre of attraction during this period. It’s best to make the most of it; you could land yourself a very nice partner. However, make sure that there are no misunderstandings.

^ _ ` a b c d e f g h i

Classifieds

Celebrating 60 wonderful years together CONGRATULATIONS

Love from us all.

Garry, Emma, Adam, Jaxson, Jenni & Les, Sheree & Will, Matt, Matilda and Florence. xoxo

KNIGHT,

Cynthia

Passed away peacefully on June 9, 2024 on her 90th birthday.

Dearly loved wife of Len (dec).

Loving mother and motherin-law of Leesa & Margaret.

Step mother and motherin-law to Cheryle, Susan & John, Margaret & Jim (dec), Kelso & Chris.

Loved sister and sister-inlaw of Graham (dec) & Barb.

Reunited with loved ones

McGENNISKEN (nee Watt), Joan

Passed away peacefully on June 10th, 2024 Aged 94 years.

Loved wife of Alan (dec)

Loving mother and motherin-law of Michael, Helene & Gary and Mark.

Proud and loving Grandma to Eliza, Keegan, Campbell, Asha and Violet.

“In Our Hearts Forever and Now in God’s Care”

AISBETT, Shireen

Grampians Health is saddened by the recent passing of Shireen Aisbett, a valued and much loved member of our Horsham Quality team. Always willing to help where she could, Shireen will be remembered for her positivity, graciousness and strength.

We extend our sincerest condolences to Shireen’s family and friends.

HABEL (nee Kuhne), Phyllis Marie of Warracknabeal, formerly of Natimuk, Boolite, Horsham.

Left this earthly world peacefully on June 13th, 2024 surrounded by her children.

Loved Wife of Gordon (dec)

Loved Mother of AnneMarie, Janet, Peter & Caroline

Adored and Loved by her 11 grandchildren & 4 Great Grandchildren

Sister of Lyla, Evelyn, Eric, Ray & Mavis (all dec) John 3-16

SANDERS

(nee Keller), Fay Elaine

Passed away peacefully at Nhill Hospital on June 16, 2024.

Loved sister & sister-inlaw of John & Ann Keller, special aunty to Katelyn & Tom, Ashley & Sheridan & great-aunty to Riley, Roman & Sage. In God’s care

SONEGO, Patricia

26-8-1928 to 14-6-2024

Passed away peacefully at Kaniva Nursing Home.

Loved wife of Plinio (dec).

Cherished Mother of Derek, Lyn, Michelle and their families.

Loved Nanna of 7 Grandkids and Great Nanna to 7 Great Grandchildren

As is the family’s wish, Patricia is to be farewelled at a private funeral service

“Deeply Missed, Now at Rest with Plinio’’ Horsham & District

Funerals

Dylan & Amity Hartwich 5382 1149

Horsham & District Funerals

Dylan & Amity Hartwich 5382 1149

MONCRIEFF, Graeme Stanley

11-4-1939 to 16-6-2024 (85yrs)

Passed away in Bendigo on Sunday.

Son of Alexander and Pearl (dec).

Brother to Jack (dec), Bill & Noel.

Devoted and loving husband to Kathleen (dec).

Father to Peter, Tania & Aaron.

Father-in-law to Melina & Rob.

Grandad to Tyler, Coen & Riley.

Now reunited with mum.

Horsham & District Funerals

Dylan & Amity Hartwich 5382 1149

POLACK, Else of Haven, formerly Katyil on June 11, 2024

Loved Wife of Günther (dec),

Loved Wife of Les (dec)

Loved Mother & Mother In Law of Riki, Matthew & Kate

Grandmother of Annika, Hannah, Jonty and Jude

Loved Aunty of Carolyn & John and families, and her overseas family

Dieter, Ursel, Marion, Vio, Angelo & families

BROWN,

Gavin

The memorial service to farewell the late Mr Gavin Brown is to be held at Horsham’s Church of Christ, Friday, June 28, 2024 commencing at 1pm, with refreshments to follow at the Exchange Hotel, Horsham.

As is the family’s wish, Gavin is to be farewelled at a private cremation at a later date.

Dylan & Amity Hartwich 5382 1149

HABEL (nee Kuhne), Phyllis Marie

The Funeral of Mrs Phyllis

Marie Habel will leave the Lutheran Church Warracknabeal on Thursday June 20th, 2024 after a Service commencing at 2pm for the Warracknabeal Cemetery

W.B. Gardiner & Son Funeral Directors Warracknabeal 0407 340 064

The Funeral of Cynthia Knight will take place at St John’s Anglican Church, Horsham on Friday, 21 June 2024 commencing at 2pm. Private cremation

KOENIG-TAYLOR, Tia

The funeral service to farewell the life of the late Miss Tia Koenig will be held at Horsham’s Church Of Christ, 91 River Road, Monday, June 24, 2024 commencing at 1pm Interment to follow at the Horsham Lawn Cemetery.

Dylan & Amity Hartwich 5382 1149

McGENNISKEN, Joan

A Requiem Mass will be offered for the repose of the soul of the late Mrs Joan McGennisken at Ss Michael and John’s Catholic Church, Horsham, Friday, June 21, 2024, commencing at 1pm Interment to follow immediately after the service at Horsham Lawn Cemetery. Rosary & Prayers to be held Thursday evening, June 20 at 5pm.

Dylan & Amity Hartwich 5382 1149

MONCRIEFF,

Graeme Stanley

The funeral service to farewell the late Mr Graeme Moncrieff is to be held at Horsham & District Funerals Chapel, 23 Pynsent St, Thursday, June 27, 2024 commencing at 1pm Graeme will then be sent for a private cremation at a later date.

Dylan & Amity Hartwich 5382 1149 POLACK, Else

The Funeral of Mrs Else Polack will leave the Dimboola Lutheran Church on Friday 21 June, 2024 after a Service commencing at 11am for the Dimboola Cemetery.

W.B. Gardiner & Son Funeral Directors Warracknabeal 0407 340 064

Thank you

FIELD (nee KOENIG), Eril Beverly 9.11.1933 - 23.4.2024

Gordon (Paddy), Kerryn, Christine, Darren, Terry, Jamie & their Families would like to sincerely thank friends, family and the community for your expressions of sympathy and support on the passing of Eril, our Wife, Mum, Gran & Great Gran.

To the staff at Avonlea and IONA, special thanks for the care and kindness that was given to Eril.

Thank you to the Nhill Uniting ladies for the lunch provided, and to the Nhill Lions Club and Lowan Group CFA for the guard of honour.

Special thanks to Matt & Emiley Bone for your professionalism and compassion.

Please accept this as our personal thanks to you all.

Thank you

WIRTH, Margaret ‘Joyce’ 28/08/1928 - 22/05/2024

Bob, Colin & Wendy, Brian & Julie and families would like to thank our family and friends for their kind wishes, phone calls and words of sympathy following the passing of Joyce. Thanks to the staff at SLRV and Oxley ward for looking after Joyce and to Sue Hobbs and Dylan & Amity.

1 Honey Boy and 1 Black Girl Spoodle available now to new Furever Families, both have been raised in a family environment on our farm, socialised with other dogs, cats, horses, live stock and chickens, They love cuddles, walks and time spent with you chilling in front of the fire, microchip 956000016666706/6579578

source# EE223376 $1500 girl $1800 boy Ph 0400035456

5mth old Guinea fowls $25 each Ph 0435124012 Dimboola

Alaskan Malamute pups ,

Born 21/2/24 Vet checked , microchipped wormed

Source number MB168224 Boy

98514007720630. Boy 985141007720631, Girl 985141007720628 $1000 Ph Nadine 0429836214

Aust White x Dorper cross ewe lambs, no shearing, crutching or fly problems, excellent 4 legged lawn mowers, will sell in lots of 10 or over Ph 0447275737 for further details

Cocker spaniel pups, 4 tan

1 black& tan 1 black both parents reg with dogs victoria vet checked vaccinated microchipped & wormed ready for their new homes, m/chip# 956000016725032 956000016330824, source# RB185238 Ph 0429912620

Doberman pups , 4x girls black/tan, 4x boys

3 black/tan and 1 brown/ tan, ready to go, m/c # 956000014813157/14702252 /14697789/14699139/148457 71/14850566/14817621/1481 0773 $2000 Ph 0431982052

Female desexed mini dachshund , I like kids, dogs, cats, I am toilet trained, love walks and snuggles, microchip# 900141000504012, source# MB197522 $1400ono Nhill Ph 0431725487

Death Notices

Daughter

Funeral Notices

Funeral Notices

Animals & Accessories

wedding anniversary

Hungarian Viszla Pups, 1

girls 5 boys, born 13th April 2024, microchip# 9851410

07305942\9851410073059

46\985141007305940\985 141007305939\985141007

305941\985141007305943,

source# MB216417 $1750 Ph 0413926539

Merino Sheep , 1 Suffolk merino cross, 1 whether suffolk merino cross, $600 and no separation Ph 0481756063

Muscovy ducks, 4-6mnths old $20 each Ph 53542590

Purebred black faced Dorper rams, pic# 3HSDC083 Ph Liz 0419664345

Roosters, ducks and guinea fowl wanted to buy Ph 0469740723

Suffolk Rams, 18 months old,fully vaccinated, OB accredited, PIC3SGP010, ready to work, good bloodlines, well grown, $800 plus GST, can arrange delivery Ph 0429196337

Young Muscovy ducks , available now, $15 each Ph 042992620

A large elephant ornament carrying a baby elephant in its trunk, 36cms tall and 53cms long, a quick sale for $600 Ph 53824788

1998 Jayco Westport, full annexe, a/c, oven, microwave, always shedded, many extras

$22,000ono Ph 0419514118

2003 Avan , The Robina, poptop, new awning, new battery, new tyres, diesel heater, immaculate, tare 1150kg, $16,000 Ph 0418504985

2009 Roma Elegance Pop Top, 18ft 6, air bags, full canvas annexe, has new awning and hot water service, VGC, $25,000 ONO, Ph 0429951322

2010 Galaxy Odyssey, c ombined shower/toilet, queen bed, air con, battery, awning, annexe, tare 1900kg, $24,990 Ph 0418504985

2013 Jayco Starcraft, 21', one owner, very little use, as new, many added extras

$24,000 Ph 0427909230

2017 Jayco Silverline , Outback 21.65-3, ac, battery 100amp deep cycle x2, full annexe, 174L fridge/ freezer/3way, 2 gas bottles, 21", 12volt LED TV, washing machine, 3 x80L water tanks, 300 watt solar system, 2 solar panels, always shedded

$62,000 Ph 0408504867

2018 Dingo Ultimate Camper, heavy duty top of the line off-road trailer including boat rack, fully enclosed annexe including ensuite, lots of storage, built-in instant gas hot water to sink and shower, dual AGM batteries and built-in inverter and charger, innerspring mattress and ability to make up second double bed, two new off-road tyres, VGC, reg Y76535

$18500ono Ph 0407360212

2022 Goldfields camper trailer as new, used once, loads of extras $20000 Ph 0438722796

Concept Ascot caravan , 2006, 18', pop-top, tare 1420, low kms, kept undercover, regularly serviced, EC, many extras inc, near new full annexe, easy to tow, R3373

$22,000 Ph Ray 0413445347

Galaxy Scenic caravan , 2004, 19', EC, shower on outside $18,000 Ph 0400603022

Goldstream RV Off Road

2007 , solar panels, new deep cycle battery, roll out awning, pull out flys each end, outside shower, new porta loo, full annexe, queen bed, RC air con, hot water, full oven with grill, 3 gas burners, electric fridge runs off solar electric, built in radio plus tv, storage cupboards over bed, storage under seats, reg until October 2024, $16,000 Ph 0409967815, Horsham

Kokoda Tribute 2 Platinum, 2015 as newcondition, semi-off-road, ensuite, custom design, lots extras $56,000 Ph 0493052729

Motorhome Jayco Conquest 2021, 25', satellite system, diesel, heater, 7625knms, 1UU2JX $168,000 Ph 0429821461

New Age 2013, queen bed, TV, large fridge, microwave, gas/electric hot plates, toilet, shower, washing machine, full annex, sway bars, $45,000, Ph 0427778747

Paramount Caravan, VGC, registered, rollout awning, full kitchen $22,000 Ph 0407542856

REDUCED 2011 Pinnacle camper trailer - full off-road, hard floor, a full canvas annexe, tag hinge towing included, 2 new tyres- spare is brand new, 2 batteries, Anderson plugs for charging batteries are included, 2 power points, light in camper, queen size bed and mattress, new fly screens in windows and doors, 4 burner gas stove, includes 2 gas bottles, 60L water tank,sink with water tap and electric pump to sink and outside tap, carries 2 large fuel containers, portable gas heater, portable toilet with pop-up shower or toilet cubicle, folding camp table, Rego till Sept 2024, U28090 $9,000ono Ph 0429942936

REDUCED 2018 Jayco Swan Camper, hardly used, as new, front & rear double beds, couch & table bed, can sleep 6 easily, battery pack, 4 Burner gas stove & grill, microwave, 3 way fridge, awning, lots of cupboards, $20,000ono, Ph 0427467622 Kaniva

REDUCED Isuzu Outback Express Motorhome for sale, 2 seater, sleeps 3, auto, deisel, fridge, tv, shower, toilet, stove and lots more, have to see to believe, can drive on normal car licence, 3.1m long, RWC, $42,000 with 12mth rego and RWC Ph Phillip 0428173606 or Susan and ask for Phillp 0458727370 Horsham

Seeking Individual Support Worker (Ageing) to provide in-home care, Horsham based, duties include, dressing, bathing, toileting, minimum 1 overnight + 1 day shift per week, male or strong female ideal, Italian/English language skills ideal, more detail on enquiry Ph 0439307176

1984 Inter Acco 1830A , 18' tray with bulk bin and double deck sheep crate, 02697P $16,000 plus Gst Ph 0400603022

2022 Kawasaki Mule ProMX SSV, equipped with doors, a roof, and both front and rear windscreens, features include indicators, a flashling light, bed liner, tow ball and a 12V plug in the tray, registration valid until October 2024, mileage is only 4,907kms (305.6 hours), a service kit is included with the purchase, $16,990 inc Gst Ph 0423024026

3PL Super Spreader, done no work, fair condition, $350, Ph 0400894020

5 x 30 ton Silos for sale, $1500 ono Ph 0427361940

Brandt 46' auger, 8" super charge, new battery, new motor 3rd wheel drive $14,000 plus Gst Ph 0400603022

Case IH 2144 Harvester , 4375 engine hrs, 3108 rotor hrs, trimble auto steer, no screen, 25-foot flex front on Leith trailer, $50,000 inc Gst Ph 0428852409 Murtoa

Caterpillar , 955kms, 955 traxcavator DROTT, TOTS, strong double ripper, GP bucket, D30T motor $35,000 plus Gst Ph 0400603022

Connor Shea, 18 plate disc, hydraulic lift and fold $850ono,Southern cross pump jack, electric motor, working $80, Asuc wool table $120ono Ph 0407911884

Croplands Pegasus 6000lt boom sprayer, all hydraulics, 36m wide, air bag suspension, 20 point 8 forty, 2 tyres $77,000 inc Gst Ph 0498549832

Heaslip grouper , VGC, 2 bins, 4200L each capacity, Honda motor, new bearings in elevator, adjustable legs, always shedded $7700 inc Gst Ph 0427330078

Small steel sheep ramp , suit tandem trailer, $75, Ph 0400894020

3

Stoll S6 2014 boom spray, 6000lt tank, 36m boom,10 sections, 520/85R 42 tyres, 2.3mt axle on air bag suspension, mud guards, stainless steel centrifugal pump with hydraulic drive, 450lt flush tank, fence line nozzles both sides, TriJet nozzle bodies, one owner/ operator, $80,000 inc Gst Ph 0428852409 Murtoa

Tractor Tyre, 1/2 the new price, 16.9 x 28, near new Ph 0353870522 AH or 0413073478

Trailing Grain Feeder, with canopy, good condition, $1100, Ph 0400894020

20 ft sea container, GC $4000 Ph 0408144139 Horsham

2016 Ramco C Dolly trailer, registered X17337 $4000 Ph 0407542856

Aluminium windows , 4 x double approx 6'x6', 2 x single approx 6'x3', other smaller sizes, VGC, also quantity of timber louvre wardrobe doors, make an offer Ph 0437754474

Chicken manure, ex sheds or composted available now

The Good Dirt Company Lethbridge Vic Ph 0409889250

Doll collection, celluloid, porcelain and collectables, leather handbags, brand names, tapestries large variety Ph 0498621118

Fencing material , cyclone combination stays $66 inc, 100mm heavy duty galv pipe, ideal for strainer posts, 6m length cut to size $120 inc, 1000 elec fence standoffs $220 inc Ph 0428579838

Honda EU70is generator , almost brand new, 14 hrs, $5800 Ph 0417500311

Massage Machine, duo MKII

Professional complete with instructional DVD, $300ono Ph 0429820692

Pine Posts S/H, good order, $5 each Ph 0429954000

REDUCED Horse hames , old, 8 pairs $10 pair ono, McCormick deering 2236 tractor, front wheel $120ono Ph 0407911884

2001

3.8 Savage aluminium boat, new 18 hp Tohatsu motor, Biminis, Eagle fish finder, Mackay galvanised trailer, GC, $3700 Ph 0428826113

3.8 Stacer Kippa boat,15hp, 2 stroke Mercury, trailer A77849, cover, canopy, extras, boat reg J0296 $3900 Ph 5382 4210

4.0m Stessl Aluminium Runabout , on galvanised trailer, 25HP evinrude outboard motor, electric trolling motor, not used over 2 years, trailer reg V82175, boat reg DT917, serial no 09185405, $4000, Ph 0437899398

Ryobi router $100 , Triton router table $150, Triton jaws $150, band saw $200, band saw small $50, angle grinder $40, air compressor $100, plasma cutter $180, Ryobi drill press $120 Ph 0499769869

Aspire Wheelchair, extremely comfortable, padded headrest, additional padded section for leg support, barely used over 3 month period, paid $3500, selling for $1500 Ph 0427562913

Electric Recliner lift chair, $1500, Ph 0435787449, pick up Horsham

Oscar remote electric lift chair as new hardly used, bargain $1200 Ph 0408504682

Roho Brand Permobill dry flotation pressure cushion and cushion cover, $250 ono, Ph 0435787499

Seat Walker, GC, $175ono, Ph 0435787499

Single electric/adjustable bed, includes mattress,used but in EC, Includes as new Health Flex mattress topped with bamboo fabric, designed for pressure redistribution, purchase price $5000, sell for $2500ono Ph0435787449

Honda Cross Tourer adventure bike, 1200cc, many extras, elderly owner retiring, Reg 203YV, $1100ono Ph 0439797737

Yamaha Scooter, excellent condition, 6100km, RWC, 6 months reg, ideal for learner, $1800ono Ph 0408824739

REDUCED 2012 Peugeot 4007 4WD diesel, auto, tow bar, genuine one owner, country kms, RWC provided, 340,000kms, ABB324 $5100 Ph 0429352391

Gypsum , lime, compost and all granulated fertilizer spreading, modern 4wd trucks, Floatation tyres, GPS and scales, call Adam Ph 0427552432

Massage Service, full body

•

"Playola" Pianola , good condition, tuned and with 65 rolls, $500 Ph 53827026

Antique German violin, bow and case, excellent playing condition $550 Ph 0417886268

2007 VE Commodore, RWC, 3 months rego, 305,600kms, URN851, $2000 ono cash only Ph 53547510 evenings only

Black EL Futura , 04/98, limited edition factory silhouette black, Geelong plant executive order, complete with books, late model 4ltr engine, auto, air, cruise etc, runs and drives well, no rego, duco average, vin# 6FPAAAJGSWWT37628, 191,000kms $2490ono Ph Max 0477317809

Nissan ute 2.4 petrol 4WD great farm ute no tray, WD4SQ $3000 Ph 0417440396

2011 Nissan Navara 4WD diesel dual cab, manual, canopy, roof rack, tow bar, bull bar, runs well, no longer required, unregistered, no RWC, Vin # MNTVCUD40A0019094, 330,000kms $6500 Ph 0407861009

BA Falcon 2004, VGC, dec'd est, no RWC,156,500kms, XCH256 $4000 Ph 0418107551

REDUCED 2010 Hyundai i30 diesel wagon, reg, RWC, economical, XWS504 $7000 Ph 0419132137 Ararat

2004 VY SS Commodore, black, RWC, VGC, YKW598

$16,000 Ph 0400603022

2010 Mazda 3, neo silver, auto, one owner vehicle, 80,000kms, XPT696, $10,400 Ph 0498659636

2011 Mercedes E Class , 250 CGI, AMG pack, motor travelled,130,000kms

excellent condition, RWC,registered Feb 2025, ZUC413, $17,900ono Ph 0481285906

will pay Ph David0427864628

2011 White Nissan Navara D40 STX550 V6 twin cab, auto, diesel, bull bar, driving lights, snorkel, long range fuel tank, duel battery system, 2 inch lift kit, canopy, hard top tonneau cover and roll bar, 1 owner, serviced regularly, rego paid until 23/12/2024, comes with RWC, engine number: V9X007595C, 297,500kms, YTZ 215 $20,800ono Ph Craig 0429832207

2015 Nissan Navara, bbar, lbar, snkl, rrak, canopy, T-bar, ebrks, dbats, abags, 6spd man, 9mths reg, RWC, only 118,000kms, ADP699 $23990 Ph 0427423609

2019 Subaru Impreza Hatch back, AWD, glass electric sunroof, safety, comfort, Pearl White, EC, 40,000kms, 1PA8PJ $26000 ono Ph 0427822909

split system, secure backyard, $1256 p/month, bond req Ph 0419546410

Housemate wanted , clean home in Haven, large furnished bedroom, double carport, private yard, no pets, $200 per week includes bills Ph 0407043917

The Problem with Distraction. Do you get distracted easily? According to two Harvard psychologists, the real problem isn’t our chaotic environment, it’s our minds. The study claims that a person can spend 47 percent of every waking hour “mind wandering”. The summary suggests our minds are naturally wired for a state of continuous distraction. Do you think of the dream holiday at work; a place that you would rather be; things that you would rather do? We are all aware of this state. Turns out it’s pretty common. I struggle with distraction myself, but what bothers me the most is that we could distract ourselves chasing the life we want and become too busy to live the life we have now. Eventually, distractions can rob you of the peace and joy of daily life. Because we aren’t living in the present.

Psalm 118 encourages us to rejoice, because today is the day that the Lord has made. Rejoice comes from an attitude

Mobility Accessories

Christian Devotion

wanted Trades

NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR PLANNING PERMIT

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

Customer Service Officer

(Fixed Term 12 Months)

Position number VG/CSO - Multiple positions available

We are looking for a customer-focused, enthusiastic person to join our Customer Service team!

As Customer Service Officer, you will be part of our Customer Service team who are the initial point of contact for GWMWater. You will be responsible for answering incoming calls through both our general enquiries and faults lines, as well as greeting and assisting customers at our McLachlan Street office reception. When you are not answering customer calls you will be responsible for processing change of ownerships, information statements, customer payments and shutdown notifications, as well as other general administrative tasks.

If you have a friendly ‘can-do’ approach to customer service, an eye for detail and a willingness to learn and adapt to changing task priorities, this is the job for you.

While this position is advertised as a full-time ongoing role, we will consider part-time/job-share arrangements for a strong candidate.

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

Applications close: Wednesday 26 June 2024

GWMWater contact:

Olwen Reynolds, People Talent and Culture Officer

GWMWater is an EEO employer and is committed to continuously improving our quality, safety and environmental systems.

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 11 McLachlan

Horsham gwmwater.org.au

TEACHERS WANTED

htlc.vic.edu.au/employment for more information about the position and to apply.

Weekdays from 6am to 9am

All-rounders shining in spirit awards

Horsham District Football Netball League and Wimmera Football

Netball League award one under-17 footballer and one 17-and-under netballer a spirit of sport award each playing round.

The Spirit of Football and Spirit of Netball awards are presented by either Victoria Police officers or Blue Ribbon Foundation members.

Round five

Eckerman – WFNL

Southern Mallee Thunder footballer

Jamie Eckermann is tough yet consistent in his play, routinely putting his body on the line in pursuit of the ball.

Rainbow police leading senior constable Tony Clark presented Jamie his award, and said it was representative of being the fairest and best player, which Jamie displays during games.

Jonathon Baker –WFNL

Minyip-Murtoa footballer Jonathon Baker, pictured with Horsham police senior constable Angie Clark, was awarded for his willingness to do what is best for his team. Baker comes from a long line of Burras supporters, and this loyalty shows in his approach to put his team-mates before himself.

Nekeisha Bastin – WFNL

Southern Mallee Thunder netballer

Nekeisha Bastin uses court space well as a valuable all-rounder.

Nekeisha leads by example and plays a smart game, skilfully feeding the ball to shooters.

Rainbow police leading senior constable Tony Clark presented Nekeisha with her award.

six

Goodwin – WFNL Nhill netballer Milla Goodwin’s consistency and enthusiasm earned her the spirit of netball award, presented by Nhill sergeant Mark Kennedy.

Milla, a defender, has a positive attitude and encourages her team-mates on and off the court.

Mitchell Mills – HDFNL

Kalkee footballer Mitchell Mills’ leadership on and off the field and his willingness to volunteer in a variety of ways earned him the Spirit of Football award.

Mills was presented with his award by Horsham police’s Dave Richardson.

Ava Fitzgerald – HDFNL

Pimpinio netballer Ava Fitzgerald has made an impact in her first season with the Tigers, moving from Horsham Demons.

Although a quiet player, her presence is felt as she moves around the court, consistently intercepting the ball.

Fitzgerald plays her favoured positions of goal keeper and goal defence well, as well as making an impression in centre and goals.

Horsham Blue Ribbon member Les Power presented her with her award.

Blue Ribbon Foundation spirit of football and netball awards are presented to players when Blue Ribbon and Police members are available, which may result in awards presented during a later round. Awardees from both Horsham District and Wimmera leagues will be published as they are presented with their awards.

Round

Round seven

Jamie

Milla

Yanac sitting pretty in all divisions

WBY SIMON KING

immera hockey enthusiasts will converge on Yanac for the first time this season on Saturday for round-seven, as the competition nears the halfway point of the regular season.

The home teams currently top all three competition ladders and will look to strengthen their positions by playing on their home ground.

In the first of the open division matches, Kaniva Cobras, despite coming off a comfortable victory against Horsham Hurricanes last weekend, will have to play at their best as they face Yanac Tigers, who drew with the Warrack Hoops and will be looking to re-establish their dominance over the competition, particularly as they are still vulnerable to being joined at the top of the ladder.

A Cobras win would see three teams equal on points at the top of the ladder, as they would join the Tigers on 18 points and the Hoops, who will earn two points for the bye.

A Tigers win would see them remain as the outright leaders.

After a loss to the Cobras in round six, Horsham Hurricanes are vulnerable to dropping another game when they take on the improving-Nhill Rangers, who are fresh off the bye.

Although still without a win this season, they have looked threatening

in recent games, and this is a prime opportunity for them to open their account, which could see them displace their opponent in the top four.

teams and Warracknabeal after its first win for the season.

The round will begin with an enticing clash in under-16 competition, which will see the two undefeated teams, Yanac Warriors and Kaniva Raiders meet, with outright top of the ladder being the prize for the winner. Last time these two met, back in round-one at Dimboola, they played out a three-all draw, and both have won all their games since, so this will be a top encounter.

The Horsham Bombers and Nhill Leopards match will be another close game, but the Leopards have shown better recent form and should stay in touch with the top two with a win.

Warrack Revengers and Dimboola Kangaroos will both will be looking for a confidence-boosting win when they clash on Saturday.

Round-six results –

Clark, R. Clark). Horsham Jets 2 (K. Krahe, A. Heal; M. Spano, L. Schilling, H. Mackereth) d Kaniva 0 (H. Williams, N. Hutchins, L. Shurdington). Yanac Women 10 (C. Alexander 2, S. Croot 2, I. Hedt 2, E. Alexander, M. Mackley, S. Hedt, J. Bound; M. Mackley, S. Hedt, C. Alexander) d Warracknabeal 0 (O. Elson, M. Bentley, E. Williamson).

goals last weekend, Horsham Jets need to keep winning if they are to remain in the top two on the ladder.

The Jets will not find Nhill Thunderbirds an easy opponent after they narrowly went down to Dimboola Roos after an epic match in their last outing.

The feature game in the women’s competition will see the competitionleading Yanac face its opponents from last year’s grand final, Kaniva, who, despite coming off a loss to Horsham Jets last Saturday, remain a potent combination and are more than capable of challenging the reigning premiers.

After overcoming Kaniva by two

The other women’s match pitches the Roos against Warracknabeal, two teams that have worked together in recent seasons to keep their respective teams on the field, but both need the points from a win, with the Roos looking to remain among the leading

Open: Kaniva Cobras 3 (Goals, J. Bedford, L. Schultz, L. Mills; Best, L. Mills, A. Wallis, J. Bedford) d Horsham Hurricanes 0 (C. Hassall, M. Spano, J. Horsfall). Warracknabeal Hoops 1 (M. Williamson; T. Jorgensen, S. Schultz, H. Johns) drew with Yanac Tigers 1 (T. Alexander; T. Alexander, B. Alexander, L. Reichenbach).

Women: Dimboola Roos 4 (K. Marlow, V. Elliott, L. Graham, J. Ward; J. Hauselberger, L. Graham, K. Marlow) d Nhill Thunderbirds 3 (K. Clark, R. Clark, N. Kuhnell; N. Kuhnell, K.

Under-16: Nhill Leopards 9 (O. Bone 2, B. Clark 2, T. Bee, D. Clark, C. Bone, B. Cannell, D. Bee; D. Clark, O. Bone, B. Clark) d Dimboola Kangaroos 0 (J. Ward, R. Williams, V. Ward). Kaniva Raiders 5 (C. White 4, L. Krelle; C. White, J. Beattie, L. Krelle) d Horsham Bombers 0 (J. Schwarz, H. Mackereth, K. Besselaar). Yanac Warriors 8 (Archie Zanker 4, Asher Zanker 2, Annabella Zanker, H. Zanker; Archie Zanker, Asher Zanker, Annabella Zanker) d Warracknabeal Revengers 2 (E. Williamson, N. Eilola; N. Eilola, E. Williamson, S. Williamson).

Under-12 development program: Dimboola Kookaburras 1 (R. Hadzig) v Nhill Bandits 3 (D. Bee 2, A. Marra). Horsham Black Hawks 1 (H. Mitchell) v Kaniva Rampagers 1 (L. Williams). Warracknabeal Avengers 1 (Z. Nuske) v Yanac Lowan Stars 2 (S. Hedt, S. Dickinson).

WEANING PRODUCTS

ACTION: Above, Horsham Hurricanes’ Justin Hawke, and right, Warrack Hoops’ Sandon Schultz controls the ball with Yanac Tigers’ Shaun Alexander in pursuit. Pictures: SIMON KING

CONTROL: Warracknabeal’s Clarice Bennett, left, attempts to play the ball from Yanac’s Erin Alexander.

ACTION APLENTY: The Weekly Advertiser photographer PAUL CARRACHER caught some of the action between Horsham District league teams Natimuk United and Rupanyup on Saturday. The Panthers proved too strong on the football field and netball court, with the senior footballers winning 15.14 (104) to Natimuk United’s 8.9 (57) and the A Grade netballers victorious 56-19.

Pictured in action are, clockwise from above: Rupanyup’s Jimmy Finnigan; Cam Weston, Rupanyup, and Natimuk United’s Liam Klowss; Natimuk United’s Emma Uebergang defended by Jedda Heard and Victoria Taylor, Rupanyup; Archie Sudholz,

and

Natimuk United; Adam Coutts, Natimuk United; Olivia Sudholz, Natimuk United;

centre, Danielle Hanson, Natimuk United.

Weekdays from 6am to 9am

ROUND EIGHT:

Saints showed their dominance at the weekend, winning the day across all levels of football and netball against Dimboola. The Weekly Advertiser photographer PAUL CARRACHER captured some of the senior action, in which the Saints footballers won a close match, 13.13 (91) to Dimboola’s 13.7 (85) and its A Grade netballers victorious 53-27. Pictured in action are, clockwise from left: Ash Grace, Horsham Saints; Dimboola’s Ben Brett tackles Jack Henry, Horsham Saints; Saints’ Mitch Martin celebrates; Dimboola’s Jonathon Ross tackles Mitch Clarke, Horsham Saints; and Dimboola goal shooter Ashlee Morrish.

Horsham

Boost for sports clubs

Sporting groups across the Wimmera, southern Mallee and Grampians regions were among 400 statewide to receive money through a second round of the State Government’s Sporting Club Grants Program 2023-24.

The program allocates grants to sporting clubs across four categories: on-field uniforms or equipment; volunteers and officials; access and engagement; and competitors.

In the second round of funding, five local groups received grants of up to $1000 under the on-field uniforms and equipment category: Horsham Croquet Club, Horsham District Football Netball League, Nhill and District Sporting Club, Willaura Golf Club, and Wimmera District Scout Association, which will use the grant for archery, bushwalking and camping equipment.

Another two groups, Horsham Saints Football Netball Club and Horsham Hockey Club, will receive up to $750 each towards the costs of travel, accommodation and event registration fees for individual athletes selected to attend representative competition.

Groups from the region that previ-

ously received money through the program’s first round include 1st Warracknabeal Scout Group, Ararat Eagles Football Netball Club, Donald Amateur Basketball Association, Horsham and District Soccer Club, Horsham Little Athletics Club, Horsham Table Tennis Association, Natimuk United Football Netball Club, Nhill Bowling Club, Rainbow Bowls Club, Wimmera Mallee Umpires Association and Rupanyup Football Netball Club.

Community Sport minister Ros

Spence said the grants would improve accessibility and engagement, strengthen volunteering and officiating, enable new sporting programs and support athletes’ travel to competitions.

“We’re backing more clubs, volunteers and athletes across Victoria with grants to help them grow participation and serve their community in a way that matters to locals,” she said.

“These grants are opening up a range of opportunities on and off the field and ensuring clubs have the resources they need to encourage everyone to get involved in grassroots sport.”

HOT TO TROT: Lexton reinsman James Herbertson, centre, took out the 34th annual Decron Noel Smith Memorial Horsham Invitation Drivers Championship on Monday afternoon after a countback was needed to split three drivers, each on 42 points after the six-heat series. Herbertson’s two wins saw him edge out defending champion Ellen Tormey, with a win and a second, and Greg Sugars’ win and two thirds. A further countback decided fourth and fifth placegetters, Nathan Jack and Chris Svanosio, both on 39 points. The 2002 series champion Jack Laugher saw the opposite end of the tally board with 21 points and picked up the commemorative wooden spoon.

Talent scouts select junior netballers

Talented junior netballers from the Wimmera and Horsham District leagues are among those invited to try out for the Netball Victoria Talent Academy and state teams.

As part of its talent identification process, Netball Victoria talent scouts invite junior athletes from across the state to trial for its academy, 17-andunder and 19-and-under sides. Horsham District league juniors

Shade Sails

Phoebe Downer, Ruby Gordon and Ilze van Zyl, and Wimmera league players Nellie Driller, Zarli Knight, Lena Marshman, Ayva Mitchell and Olivia Taylor were picked to try out for the talent academy, which aims to assist the development of young players.

Knight and Marshman were also selected to try out for the 17-andunder state squad, along with fellow

Wimmera league player Ella Hallam, while Ruby Gordon and Ilze van Zyl received invitations to represent the Horsham District league.

Picked to trial for the 19-and-under state squads were Taya Quick and Indy Ward from Wimmera league and Ada Binney and Tara McIntyre from District league.

arouND tHe leagues

Tatyoon continues to rise

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Tatyoon’s ascension through the Mininera and District Football League ranks continued on Saturday with the Hawks defeating Lismore-Derrinallum for their fourth win in the past five games.

The Hawks took the lead in the first quarter and held it at every change, but struggled to put the Demons away.

At three-quarter time an errant 8.12 by Tatyoon in front of goals kept Lismore-Derrinallum in the game, despite the visitors having eight fewer scoring shots.

In the final quarter the Hawks added only three more behinds to

their total, but the Demons’ radar was also off, as the team kicked 1.5 to hand Tatyoon a 10-point win.

Leading the way for Tatyoon was midfielder Josh Lee, with Ash Munari and captain Josh Bibby lending support and full forward Marcus Darmody kicking three goals.

The Hawks are now sixth on the ladder after dropping two of their first three games, and will look to further entrench themselves in the finals race against eighth-placed Glenthompson-Dunkeld at Glenthompson this weekend.

The Ararat Eagles also continued to soar, downing winless Caramut 11.14 (80) to 4.8 (32).

Tom Cousins was a standout for the Eagles and skipper Naish

McRoberts slotted five goals. The news was not as good for Moyston-Willaura, which slumped to its eighth-straight loss, against SMW Rovers at Willaura.

The Pumas could muster only one goal through the first three quarters, and inaccuracy in front of goals saw them finish with 2.12 (24) for the match, 45 points adrift of the Bulldogs, who booted 9.15 (69).

Key backs Ned Bohner and Aaron Pianta kept Bulldogs forwards Jake Carr and Jamie Norton to one combined major, but the visitors found too many other avenues to goal.

Great Western was another team to suffer from inaccuracy, losing to Hawkesdale-Macarthur 9.9 (63) to 4.16 (40).

Captain Caleb Bacely and Nick Costello were the only two Lions to split the middle all afternoon, with Renn Lovitt and Tim Barton also playing well.

Other results saw Penshurst 17.14 (116) defeat Glenthompson-Dunkeld 5.7 (37) and Wickliffe-Lake Bolac thrash Woorndoo-Mortlake 26.17 (173) to 8.9 (57).

Round-nine will pit Great Western against SMW Rovers at North Park, Ararat Eagles against Penshurst at Alexandra Oval, Moyston-Willaura against Woorndoo-Mortlake at Woorndoo, Wickliffe-Lake Bolac against Caramut and Lismore-Derrinallum against Hawkesdale-Macarthur.

District league selects interleague teams

Horsham District Football and Netball League has named its three junior interleague football teams.

The teams will play against Maryborough Castlemaine District Football Netball League on Sunday in Stawell.

Under-13s – 10am

Kai Whitfield, Hudson Ferguson, Nate Berry, Charlie Hindhaugh, Lenny Carter, Rory Hudson, Nicholas Verrall, Clarrie Grosser, Joel Plazzer, Jack Arnott, Dusty Kelm, Tanner Treacy, Judd Oakley, Jett Rowe, Thomas Sudholz, Rhenz Enriquez, Xyrus Gragasin, Zander Johnston, Arkie Mackley, Jimmy Monaghan, Max Borchard and Luke White. Emergencies: Logan Christian, Zack Pickering, Bailey Dridan. Under-15s – 11.30am Oscar Dunstan, Levi Linto, Marcus McIntyre, Justin Mutch, Jett Martin, Liam Richardson, Aiden Reinheimer, Jye Dolan, Byron Merrett, Harrison Tink, Nash McKenzie, Chase Whelan, Harrison Adams, Micah Erhardt, Mason Hair, Isaac Thomas, Eli Friend, Hugh Weidemann, Riley Downer, Jaxon Coote, Archie Hoffmann and Charlie Hedt. Emergencies: Jack Bardell, Sid Kingston, Carter Monaghan.

Under-17s – 1pm Joshua Robinson, Archer Cameron, Mitchell Mills, Willis Stimson, Xavier Stimson, Angus Mintern, Joshua Hutchinson, Brodie Foster, Archie Sudholz, Ned Glascott, Kane Bates-Russell, James Officer, Harrison Daniell, Rosco Hair, Jack Gardner, Jack Hicks, Austin Simpson, Jude Borlase, Will Hemley, Max Sudholz and Archie McQueen. Emergencies: Lachie Kenyon, Henry Wardlaw, Tarquin Young.

REPRESENTATIVE:

Rupanyup’s Max Sudholz will represent HDFNL in Stawell on Sunday. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

AFTER THE SIREN

shirtfront

with Kuges, Cobba, Easty & Hugh

Match in review

Horsham Saints 13-13 (91) d Dimboola 13-7 (85)

It was an important game for both teams heading into this match-up, with both sides one win outside the top five before the round.

After a tight first half which saw the Roos up by a goal, the Saints used the wind to their advantage to kick four goals to one to open up a 16-point lead.

Roos star Dylan Landt gave Dimboola hope when he cut the deficit to nine points with a goal from the boundary line early in the last quarter.

After some missed chances from the Saints and Jackson Calder kicking his sixth goal of the day, Dimboola found itself down by just one point.

A late miss from Paddy Lindsey tied the game up with five minutes left.

The Saints counter attacked quickly and got the ball into the hands of Mitch Martin, who broke a tackle and kicked a right foot snap with under two minutes left in the game.

Dimboola tried to find a late goal but the determined Saints side held on to win another thriller this season.

The standout player: Mitch Martin, Horsham Saints. The midfielder was damaging early by foot, finding teammates forward of the ball with ease. His constant impact on the game was noticeable throughout the match as he stood up whenever the Saints needed a ball winner.

Martin displayed his scoring ability, kicking his first goal with a set shot from 50 metres out that got the crowd on their feet and his second goal being the match winner.

His midfield craft will be crucial in the Saints’ push for finals.

The rising star: Jack Henry, Horsham Saints. The 15-year-old small forward has played every game this year for the Saints and never fails to make an impact, whether it be through his classiness around goals or his tough tackling ability.

Henry showcased his forward pressure and elite running ability to lay tackles and create contests all across the ground.

The fearless forward didn’t back down from a contest all day, no matter the size of the opposition.

HorsHam District league

Baggies set second test

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Swifts’ senior footballers are preparing for a second successive Horsham District league test on Saturday after passing what coach Brett Hargreaves labelled a danger game against Laharum with flying colours.

The Baggies won convincingly, 18.7 (115) to 7.7 (49), in front of a home crowd at North Park that turned out to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of the club’s 2014 premiership.

But while the final result was a 66-point victory, Hargreaves said the Demons’ strong form in the lead-up to the contest made him ‘pretty nervous’.

“We didn’t know what we were coming up against. They pushed ladder leader Harrow-Balmoral and got pretty close in that game, and from all reports they might have let it slip,” he said.

“Apart from their game against Noradjuha-Quantong, they’ve been beating teams by similar margins to us.

“We have a lot of respect for them, so it was a good, old-fashioned danger game for us.”

Hargreaves was pleased with his side’s effort throughout the match.

A focus for the Baggies was preventing the dangerous Laharum midfield featuring Daniel Easson and Robbie

Miller from asserting itself, and they achieved their goal with onballers Ryan Folkes and Scott Carey feeding off Hargreaves’ ruck work.

Folkes put in another best-on-ground performance, while full forward Paul Summers extended his lead in the league goal-kicking tally with eight majors.

Also pleasing Hargreaves were the debuts of former Great Western players Andrew Cameron and Chevy Elliott on a wing and at a half-back flank, respectively.

Laharum’s best performers included defenders John Doyle and Brett Ervin along with half forward Jarrod Kemp, while Miller and Easson played customarily well despite the attention of the Baggies.

Hargreaves said his side’s challenge was to replicate its form this weekend in a road game against fourth-placed Rupanyup.

“It’s a bit of an eight-point game. They’re trying to take second spot off us, and if we beat them it’s four points we get and they don’t,” he said.

“They’re probably a bit similar to Laharum – they’ve got a good engine room and a good forward line, so our job is to beat them in the middle.

“If we keep it in our forward half more than theirs, I think we have

enough artillery in our forward half to stretch their defence and it should hopefully be enough to kick a winning score.”

Other results at the weekend saw Noradjuha-Quantong top KanivaLeeor United in a 34.14 (218) to 6.4 (40) thrashing at Quantong Recreation Reserve.

In what marked the first time a team topped 200 points this season, the Bombers were ruthless, slamming home 11 goals in the final term to put an exclamation point on the game. Judah Hobbs kicked 10 goals to lead the team’s tally, but best-on-ground honours went to James Hallett, who kicked five of his own and set up others. Also getting in on the act was Dawson Cross with six.

Cougar co-captains Billy King and Jock Maddern and senior player Hamish Bennett never stopped try-

ing amid the heavy defeat. HarrowBalmoral also convincingly won its game against Kalkee, 26.12 (168) to 3.8 (26).

Spearhead Michael Close kicked a season-high seven goals for the Roos, with Nick Pekin and Rhys Daffy kicking four each and Cody Deutscher and coach Jai Thompson leading the way.

Playing coach Andy Devereaux and midfielder Jakob Butcher were the Kees’ best.

Edenhope-Apsley picked up its second win of the season, downing Pimpinio 15.11 (101) to 9.7 (61) at Edenhope.

Charlie Campbell led the way for the Saints with four goals, with midfielder Adam Hood another standout.

Adam Westley and big man Mackay Baker were Pimpinio’s top performers.

Rupanyup consigned Natimuk Unit-

CONTEST:

Rupanyup’s Kieran Salt darts for the ball despite the best efforts of Liam Klowss, Natimuk, during Saturday’s clash at Natimuk, in which the Panthers ran away winners by 47 points.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

ed to its seventh loss of the season with a 15.14 (104) to 8.9 (57) win on the road.

The Panthers had too much firepower for the Rams, with Cam Weston and coach Brayden Ison leading the charge in the forward line, kicking seven between them.

Rising young players Kyah Wilkinson, Cody Frizon and Archie Sudholz showed the promise of the future for the Rams however, all playing strong games.

In addition to Swifts’ clash with Rupanyup, round 10 will feature what shapes up as hard-fought battles between Pimpinio and Natimuk United at Pimpinio and Kalkee and Edenhope-Apsley at Kalkee, while KanivaLeeor United hosts Harrow-Balmoral in a battle of bottom versus top of the ladder and Noradjuha-Quantong will travel to take on Taylors Lake.

Laharum keeps unbeaten season rolling against Swifts

The Horsham District Football Netball League’s elite A Grade netball sides further demarcated themselves from the rest of the competition at the weekend with a series of dominant showings.

No game was decided by less than 25 goals as the top five solidified their grip on finals berths.

Rupanyup utilised a tremendous defensive performance to defeat Natimuk United 56-19, with the Panthers conceding only two goals in the first quarter and three in the second.

With Victoria Taylor and Jedda Heard clamping down on the defensive end and Ally Hiscock, Meg

Cashin and Anna Sudholz giving them drive through the midcourt, goal shooter Zanaiya Bergen feasted on a wealth of opportunities, netting 44 goals from 66 attempts.

For the Rams, Danielle Hanson worked hard to create scoring chances at goal attack, and Beth Sudholz battled against Bergen all day.

Noradjuha-Quantong’s game against Kaniva-Leeor United was also a onesided romp, with the Bombers emerging 66-33 victors despite the Cougars’ strong play in recent weeks.

Leading the way was indomitable goal shooter Shannon Couch with 45 goals, with Holly Nuske fighting an

BOWERS CHIROPRACTIC CENTRE

entertaining battle in the centre with Kaniva-Leeor United’s Zoe Hawker.

Gun goalie Sacha McDonald was a surprise in for Edenhope-Apsley in its match against Pimpinio as she celebrated her mother Cath’s 450th game for the club in C Grade.

McDonald nailed 30 goals as the Saints won 57-31, with Pimpinio captain Lana Ellis leading the way for her squad with 19 goals.

Laharum kept its unbeaten season rolling with a 50-35 win against Swifts.

Continuing the theme of dominant goal shooters, Caitlin Jones-Story netted 40 for the Demons, with Ashlea

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As a chiropractor we look at all areas of the spine and check all joints in the legs to find out what is not moving properly and the best way to correct it. Keeping teenagers moving well helps them grow straighter, stronger and assists them to perform better at their activities. We’re here to help.

Bylsma feeding her well at wing attack.

Baggies centre Kathryn Boag was her team’s best, along with goal shooter Rebbekkah Seeary, who hit 23 shots.

Kalkee employed a balanced scoring attack to beat Harrow-Balmoral 65-30, with Jarrah Martin scoring 35 goals, Jenna Bywaters netting 22 and Melissa Beddison scoring eight in a third-quarter cameo at goal attack.

Tara McIntyre led the way for the Roos with 15 goals, followed by Tori Dunstan, 11, and coach Emily Langley, 4.

Laharum remains atop the ladder

with a perfect 9-0 record, although Rupanyup has surpassed it in percentage and sits second at 7-1.

Noradjuha-Quantong, 7-2, Kalkee, 6-2, Edenhope-Apsley, 5-3, and Swifts, 4-4, round out the top six, with Kaniva-Leeor United still in the finals hunt at 3-5 and the bottom four sides all sharing 1-7 records.

This weekend will see Rupanyup host Swifts, Kalkee at home to Edenhope-Apsley, Natimuk United travelling to Pimpinio, Kaniva-Leeor United hosting Harrow-Balmoral and Noradjuha-Quantong travelling to take on Taylors Lake, while Laharum has a bye.

In-form Thunder strike a blow

BY LAUREN HENRY

Southern Mallee Thunder will claim top spot on the Wimmera senior league senior ladder if it can knock over Horsham Demons on Saturday.

The Thunder impressed at Beulah on Saturday, overcoming Stawell by 23 points.

Held scoreless in the opening term, the Warriors didn’t fare much better in the second quarter to only manage seven points on the halftime scoreboard.

The Thunder was dominant, with 15 to two scoring shots in the first half, but inaccurate kicking meant it was only 28 points ahead at the main break.

Billy Lloyd and Sam White continued with their good form for season 2024, as Brad Lowe kicked three goals for the Thunder – the only multiple goalkicker for the match.

The Warriors picked up the pace in the second half and actually outscored the home team, but Stawell also had a case of the ‘yips’ in front of goal –kicking three goals and nine points.

With an exceptional percentage of 230.58 – well ahead of every other team in the competition – the Thunder are on equal points with the Warriors and just four points behind ladder leader Ararat.

However, with Ararat and Stawell having already played their round nine match on Good Friday, if the Thunder can claim this weekend’s round nine

during Saturday’s clash.

match against the fourth-placed Demons, then it will move into the top spot on percentage.

Horsham Demons were quick out of the blocks on Saturday against Warrack Eagles – jumping out to a 38-point lead by quarter time.

While the Eagles could manage just one goal by half time, they did show some fight in the second half and outscored the Demons 61-46 points.

Six goals from Kyle Cheney plus standout performances by Jake O’Donnell and Machok Garang were highlights for the home team.

The Demons were led by ever-consistent duo Tyler Blake and Billy Carberry, as Jordon Motton kicked a bag of five goals. It will be a big test for the Demons when they host the Thunder at Horsham City Oval on Saturday – one of only three Wimmera league matches this weekend.

The other two matches are also set to be interesting as Dimboola hosts Minyip-Murtoa and Nhill play Horsham Saints.

Coming off a two-week break, the Burras should be raring to go against

the Roos, who went down to the Saints by one goal on Saturday.

Playing in front of their home crowd at Coughlin Park, the Saints were again involved in a thriller, with the scores level at quarter time before the Roos gained the ascendency by six points at the main break.

The Saints were strong in the third term, with Mitch Martin, Sam Clyne and Cody Bryan leading the way as youngsters Jack Henry and Gage Wright stepped up their games to be named among the best.

Nathan Koenig, with four goals,

Gap widens at top of the A Grade ladder

A gap has opened up in the Wimmera A Grade netball ladder, with Dimboola and Nhill now two games clear of the fifth-placed Southern Mallee Thunder.

Nhill came away with a six-goal win against Ararat to solidify fourth sport.

The Tigers trailed by three at quarter time but their second quarter turned the game, propelling them to a sixgoal lead.

However, the young Rats fought back in the third quarter and it was anyone’s game at three quarter time, with Nhill leading 39-38.

The Tigers’ experience shone through with Ruby James dominant

in the goal circle, shooting 34 goals, while for Ararat, defenders Kiara Davis and Demi Bligh were deemed best.

Southern Mallee Thunder returned to the winner’s list with their first victory since round three when it scored a 19-goal win over Stawell. Thanks largely to the efforts of centre Rylee Cocks and defender Abby White, the Thunder led at every change.

For Stawell it was Madi Taylor, who was used in a variety of positions on Saturday, and wing attack Jemma Clarkson who held strong for the Warriors.

Horsham was too good for Warrack Eagles and scored a 47-23 win at Anzac Park.

Youngster Zarli Knight, who came onto the court in the second term, made the most of her opportunities –playing in wing attack and goal attack – while Brittany Burns starred at the Demons’ defensive end.

Eagles Jordan Heller and Leiah McKenzie were named in the best for the home team.

Horsham’s sights now turn to hosting Southern Mallee Thunder at city oval, as the Demons look set to remain in the top two with the Saints this season.

Horsham Saints scored a sizeable 70-37 win against Dimboola, continuing its dominance in season 2024.

While the opening quarter was close, its was the last time the scoreboard would sit at a one-goal difference as the Saints put their foot on the accelerator after that.

Centre Ashlee Grace and goal defence Maddison Bethune impressed for the Saints, who this weekend will travel to Nhill for round nine action.

Dimboola will take on Minyip-Murtoa, coming off the general bye and then the club bye, while Warrack Eagles has a bye.

– Lauren Henry

and Corey Morgan, three goals, were handy in front of goal for the Saints, while Dimboola relied on just four goal-kickers for the day – Jackson Calder returned to kick six goals.

Trailing by 16 points at the last change, the Roos came home strongly to take it right up to the Saints, who snuck home in the end by a solitary goal.

The Saints, still clinging on with a chance to play finals, now face the tough task of playing the Tigers at Davis Park, Nhill.

Despite coming off a 67-point loss to Ararat, Nhill will be looking for a much closer game this Saturday.

Matt Kennedy, Xavier Bone and Glen Saniong were among the Tigers’ best, but with only one multiple goalkicker, Daniel Batson with two, Nhill will need more firepower up forward to ensure it starts well early.

Against the Rats, the Tigers were down by 39 points at half time, and weren’t able to claw their way back into the game.

It didn’t help that Ararat co-coach Tom Williamson was on fire with eight goals – more than what Nhill kicked for the match.

The three Wimmera league games to be played in round nine action on Saturday are Horsham Demons versus Southern Mallee Thunder; Nhill host Horsham Saints; Minyip-Murtoa travel to Dimboola, while Warrack Eagles has a bye.

IN

on Saturday.

OUT NUMBERED: Saints’ Cody Bryan looks to avoid Dimboola’s Andrew Moore, Pat McDonough and Ben Miller

Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

FORM: Goal defence Maddison Bethune impressed for the Saints

sport

Milestone match for Marklew

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

When Frank Marklew umpired his first football game, he had little idea that more than three decades later he would notch a 1000-match milestone – at the time, he was simply trying to catch his breath.

Marklew, who had retired as a player in 1988, was coaxed into umpiring two years later by Maurie Rudolph, who umpired alongside him in his first game – a pre-season match at Dimboola.

“I remember I got too close to the play and Maurie told me to ease back after the first quarter, because I nearly used all my energy,” he said.

“That was one thing I learned straight off – you’re not a rover anymore; don’t go chasing the footy.”

This weekend Marklew will umpire his 1000th game, between Taylors Lake and Noradjuha-Quantong at Dock Lake Reserve, with Rudolph making a special appearance as a goal umpire.

Marklew, 62, said he had accrued a lifetime’s worth of great memories across his umpiring career, and was keen to make one more this weekend.

“Over my time I think I’ve umpired nine Wimmera Football Netball League senior grand finals,” he said.

“I’ve done Horsham District league

grand finals, and the Northern Mallee league and the Mallee league.

“A highlight of my career was umpiring with my son Leigh. He and I umpired a senior grand final together. It was just great.

“I’ve umpired at places I’d never ever go to – there’s all these little grounds all over the place and half the towns I hadn’t even heard of.

“You make a lot of friends. There’s the odd enemy I suppose, but I always maintain if you treat players with

& Gardens Horticulture Apprenticeship

Closing date: July 2, 2024

Duties Include:

• Planting, transplanting, and pruning small trees and shrubs

• Operating equipment and machinery

• Maintaining Council Assets, reserves, park lets, ovals & street trees

• Undertaking irrigation and drainage systems maintenance activities

Requirements:

• Genuine interest in land management and conservation

• Enjoy outdoor physical work

• Willingness to commit to work and study

• Current driver’s licence and reliable transport (desirable)

respect they’ll treat you with respect.

“We make mistakes – we’re just human.”

Along the way Marklew developed a passion for developing junior umpires, and last year won the AFL Victoria Development Coach of the Year award.

“That’s what I’ve tried to strive towards during my career – to try to help the younger umpires to learn the game. That’s where you need the experience,” he said.

DYNAMIC DUO: Wimmera football umpire Frank Marklew, left, will umpire his 1000th game on Saturday. His good friend and fellow 1000-gamer Maurie Rudolph will be in the goals.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

“It’s been a great career over the years. I’ve had a lot of mentors who have helped me.

“There’s been Shane Downie, Geoff Dumesny, Graeme Cox and of course Maurie.”

Ahead of Marklew’s milestone match, he and Rudolph, who is the only other 1000 game umpire in the Wimmera, reminisced on their many good times sharing the field together.

“Frank is a jovial type,” Rudolph said.

“One day there was a bloke in a car who kept giving him a hard time, so Frank pulled out his notepad and made out that he was writing down the car number plate.

“I don’t know whether the guy thought he was an off-duty policeman, but Frank apparently didn’t have any trouble with him after that – he left the ground.”

Marklew said he had seen ‘numerous funny things’ during his umpiring career.

“I’ve seen… people being hit in the face or the crown jewels with the footy. When that happens I think ‘you’re leading the hard-ball gets’,” he said.

“You’ve got to make it fun, because at the end of the day I think people forget it’s only a game.”

And nobody has reminded Marklew of that fact more than his family.

“I’d like to thank all the umpires I’ve umpired with over the years, and I’ve always maintained you have to have a great family behind you. I couldn’t do it without my wife Carolyn, my son Leigh and my daughter Aimee,” he said.

“We all have bad days, and like players you might go home a little bit down in the dumps, but you talk to your family and they get you up and about.”

For more information contact Daryl Eastwell on 0407 364 654.

Horsham Closing date: ASAP

Duties will include:

• Processing customer documentation

• Prepare and distribute customer notices

• Process returned accounts

• Monitor and respond to emails

About you:

• Previous experience in an administrative role

• Experience in a Customer Service role desirable

• Great attitude and willingness to learn

• Current Police Check (or able to obtain)

Duties:

• General earthworks

• Pick up materials/load from quarry and delivery to surrounding sites/farms

• Skid Steer and excavator operations

Requirements:

• HC Truck Licence

• Skid Steer and/or Excavator ticket (advantageous)

• White Card

• Great attitude and able to work independently

• Physically fit and able to meet manual demands

• This is a great opportunity for someone seeking casual part-time work. Join a reputable local business and enjoy an autonomous driving position.

learn more about this

To learn more about this opportunity, contact

Administration Support Officer

To

opportunity, contact Tamira Cullinan on 0458 706 272.

Plant Operator / Truck Driver

Nathan Keel on 0408 109 324.

Finalists decided

BY DAVID BERRY

T

he first half of the grand final puzzle has been decided for Volleyball Horsham’s summer season, with seven teams qualifying.

In A Grade, Tyler Puls’ Rangers continued with their good form, disposing of Dimitrios Vettos’ Hellenic Nuggets in straight sets, although Nuggets made the top team work overtime for the victory.

Puls was the difference, with his trademark jump serves continually setting up early leads for his team, forcing Nuggets to play catch-up each time.

Nuggets will now head to the preliminary final where they will face Heidelberg, who had to dig deep to beat Tsunami in a marathon five-setter first semi-final.

Malachy O’Brien had a good night for Tsunami, while Tim Carter set well for Heidelberg.

In A Reserve, top of the table Calm Yo Tips moved through to the grand final with a four set win against Rangers.

Calm Yo Tips comfortably won the first two sets and let Rangers into the game dropping the third, before storming home to win the fourth.

Noah Werry and Tristan Rayes were in everything for the winning team, while Adel Rastegar Paymani and Mercedes Arnott tried hard for Rangers.

Rangers will take on Heidelberg in the preliminary final after Heidelberg made short work of perennial finalists Waterhammers.

David and Luke Johns combined well for the winners, while Matt Jolly and Andrew Wundke kept Waterhammers in the game.

In B Grade, again it was the top team on the table that won through to the grand final, with HTLC Tigers blowing Phantoms Blue off the court in the second semi-final.

Luke Johns and Kyren Parish combined well

for the winning team, while Tim O’Donnell was consistent for Phantoms Blue.

Phantoms Blue will now meet Heidelberg in the preliminary final after dismissing Maccas Malakas in the first semi.

Maddison Watts and Ella Van Duren were good for the winners, while Luke McCallum kept his team in the game.

In C Grade, KFC Black had to work hard for its four-set win against stablemates KFC White.

Tim Phelan and Oskar Bennett were consistent for the Black team, while Tamara Lourensz and Jordan Moss tried hard for the White team.

KFC White will live to fight another day when they take on Von Steiger Filos in the preliminary final.

The Filos were too strong for Murtoa Railway in winning their semi-final and were well served by Jhon Michael and Jayson Agustin.

In the women’s competition, the ever improving Phantoms defeated Ballbusters in straight sets on the back of their experienced duo in Laelah Robertson and Cleo Baker.

Ballbusters will take on Lakers in the preliminary final, after Lakers overcame a plucky Heidelberg in the first semi.

Amelia Van Buuren and Kayla Kelm were the best for Lakers, while Molly Carter tried hard for Heidelberg.

The junior finals were close, with HTLC Tigers advancing in a highly entertaining second semifinal against school mates HTLC Thorns.

Cookies were too strong for Strikers in the first semi, setting up an all Lutheran preliminary final with HTLC Thorns.

Phantoms caused the upset in Junior B, progressing ahead of Von Steiger Kids, while HTLC Tigers were too good for Stars in the first semi.

Women’s, A and B grade preliminary finals get underway tonight from 6pm, while Monday night’s final for Junior A and B and A Reserve and C grades also kick off at 6pm.

SUCCESS: Warracknabeal won Wimmera District’s Ladies Pennant playoff last weekend, beating Stawell 3.5-1.5 Pictured, from left, Janice Midgley, Wendy Hewitt, Vicki Hinkley, Cindy Marsh and Karen Germano celebrate their win.

Roos collared

Horsham Saints star forward Nathan Koenig collars Dimboola’s Andrew Moore and sends his mouthguard flying during the Saints’ thrilling Wimmera Football Netball League six-point win against the Roos. Koenig kicked four goals for the winners. The star-studded Roos sit eighth on the ladder, while the Saints kept their finals hopes alive. Ararat, Southern Mallee Thunder and Stawell are the stand-out leaders of the competition. Story, page 53.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Official program lift-out

Tuesday, June 25, 2024 9.30am

Aylah Zanker and Ava Koschitzke try out protective

at East Grampians

at the Wimmera

Longerenong, on

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

SPRAY

Celebrating our sponsors, supporters and volunteers

INDUSTRIAL SPRAY

Tuesday, June 25

Wimmera Events Centre,

Career experts ready and waiting

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Western Victorian Careers Expo organisers are presenting a range of hands-on exhibits at this year’s event, with a vocational education training centre, cherry picker rides and virtual reality among the experiences.

Organiser David Crooks, in his second year as project manager with Wimmera and Southern Mallee Careers Association sub-committee, said attendees of all ages would be able to immerse themselves in a range of different industries.

“Hands-on and interactive displays are a really important feature of the

event because they allow attendees to experience jobs in engineering, agricultural machinery, land and water management, emergency services, hospitality, and construction, through things such as machinery simulators and virtual reality,” he said.

“I am excited about the Powercor cherry picker rides to show a day in the life of a linesman, and a walkthrough early childhood education centre to give attendees a feel of what it’s like to work with young children.

“We also have the new Try VET Centre, which replaces a Come and Try VET Day, which previously ran in the school events calendar.”

Attendees can talk to a wide range

of career, industry and course advisors on a one-to-one basis and gain valuable information on further education and training, career paths and employment opportunities.

“There is also the Skillinvest drop-in apprenticeship centre, where people can register for apprenticeships and traineeships on the spot, seek job advice and have their resumes reviewed,” Mr Crooks said.

“It’s also a great resource for parents and carers wanting to learn more about how apprenticeships work, because they can seek advice directly from the experts.

“It’s a one-stop shop for vocational information.”

Although the expo is visited mostly by students from years nine to 12 –about 2000 students from 27 schools are expected to attend – it is open to people of all ages who are seeking information about new career opportunities, or seeing what the region has to offer in employment.

“We work hard to create an expo that is an information hub for people at all stages of their careers,” Mr Crooks said.

The event will feature 85 exhibits of local employers, including WIM Resource with careers in mining, GWMWater, and Watts Price Accounting, as well as information for career planning, job opportunities and further

Guest speakers provide snapshot of employment

This year’s career Western Victorian Careers Expo will feature several guest speakers providing insight into careers within the region.

Headspace Horsham’s Alisha McLaughlin will speak about stress, anxiety and self-care.

A community awareness and youth engagement co-ordinator, Ms McLaughlin’s role is to ensure young people know about headspace’s services and how to access them.

“My job is to go out into the community and make sure young people and their families know about our service,” she said.

Headspace supports people aged 12 to 25 years, who are looking for assistance with their mental health, or any other concerns they might have.

The organisation offers free counselling services to young people in Horsham, Hindmarsh, Yarriambiack, Northern Grampians and West Wimmera municipalities.

“We have a preventative approach in the community team, where we have programs to educate young people on how to understand their emotions and care for themselves in healthy ways,” Ms McLaughlin said. She said programs were delivered in a variety of ways, including through school presentations, events and community projects.

“A great example of this kind of education is the presentation we’ll be delivering at the expo,” she said.

“We’ll be speaking about stress, anxiety and how to practise self-care

– we often use words like ‘stress’ and ‘self-care’ without understanding what they really mean. We’ll be unpacking the definitions and providing some practical skills as well.”

Headspace also runs a youth reference group for young people aged 15 to 25 years.

“It’s a great opportunity for young people who are passionate about seeing change in the community and are keen to learn leadership skills,” Ms McLaughlin said.

“It’s a paid opportunity, so if young people are interested, please contact our centre.”

Anyone can refer a young person

to headspace and young people can refer themselves – for more information call in to the Hamilton Street, Horsham centre, call 5381 1543, or email info.headspacehorsham@ vt.uniting.org.

A career in water

GWMWater energy engineer Will Taylor will speak about some of the projects GWMWater is working on to benefit the community, and the roles school-leavers can have in these projects.

Mr Taylor’s 12.30pm presentation in the WIM Resource feature room will include information on rural pipelines, water upgrades and renewable energy initiatives.

“The Wimmera-Mallee Pipeline project, which was completed in 2010, was one of the largest water infrastructure projects in Australia. The 9159 kilometres of pipeline laid – which is long enough to reach across Australia twice – replaced 17,500 kilometres of open channels,” he said.

Mr Taylor will also speak about producing higher-quality recycled water at Horsham, to provide to industrial customers.

“It will limit waste and allow GWMWater to offer more products for customers,” he said.

“We are also putting together a 4.95-megawatt solar farm at Nhill, which will cover 70 percent of GWMWater’s power use. Combine that with the measures already in place, we are on target to be using 100

percent of renewable energy by mid2025.”

GWMWater has a range of career opportunities, from administration and a call centre, Certificate III in water industry operations, to accounting and engineering roles that require a university degree.

“We have always got something going and are always looking for people to come back to the area,” Mr Taylor said.

“We encourage all sorts of people to apply at GWMWater, it’s a really good place to work for almost anyone.”

GWMWater also has an exhibit at the expo, where people can find information on the many and varied career opportunities and pathways in the water industry, and be in the running to win some great prizes.

Presentations: 10.30am – careers in health, presented by Grampians Health in the WIM Resource features room; 10.45am – vocational pathways information service, VIS/ TIS Auditorium; 11.15am – tertiary information service session, VIS/TIS Auditorium; noon – careers in mining, presented by WIM Resource, in the WIM Resource features room; 12.30pm – local careers for local people, presented by GWMWater and Watts Price Accounting in the WIM Resource features room; and 1pm – be the best you, presented by headspace Horsham, WIM Resource features room.

education. “Whether you are seeking immediate employment, researching education and training opportunities, returning to the workforce, or thinking about a career change, we have exhibitors and industry professionals who can set you on a path to achieving your goals,” Mr Crooks said.

The expo is at Wimmera Events Centre, Longerenong, from 9.30am to 2.30pm on Tuesday, June 25.

“This event has been going strong for almost 40 years and is a huge drawcard for the Wimmera, attracting thousands of people each year,” Mr Crooks said.

GWMWater engineer Will Taylor

Matilda McKinnon Dimboola Memorial Secondary College I want to be a hairdresser because I can be creative and artistic.

Luke Hunter Dimboola Memorial Secondary College I am interested in a career in farming or a job as a diesel mechanic.

No wool over Tom’s eyes

Apassion for helping his community was the catalyst for Senior Constable Tom McGrath’s switch from farm life to frontline.

A fourth-generation farmer on his family’s 103-year-old broadacre Murtoa property, Sen Const McGrath grew up helping with planting and harvesting wheat, barley and lentil crops and managing thousands of sheep.

After high school, he was encouraged into the shearing sheds by his father, where he quickly built his skills with a handpiece – and a high tolerance for hard work.

“It was one of the hardest things I can remember doing physically, finding that I couldn’t stand after 10 minutes, and then realising there was another seven hours and 50 minutes of the day left,” Sen Const McGrath recalls.

“It was very challenging mentally and physically, although that feeling of pushing your body to the limits is addictive.

“I would work on shearing one sheep every two minutes, which included the catching and dragging of the sheep.

“When you see the sheep come into the shed with their wool on and then see them out the back freshly shorn, that’s really satisfying, because you can visually appreciate your efforts for the day.”

With a huge shortage of experienced shearers worldwide, Sen Const McGrath travelled around Australia and overseas for work, finding new jobs within minutes through social media groups. And with the industry

paying per sheep shorn, it’s lucrative work for skilled shearers.

But with a strong interest in advocacy work and working towards ‘the betterment of society’, he knew his true calling lay outside the farm gates.

“Back home in the Wimmera I was involved with youth advisory councils and young farmer councils,” Sen Const McGrath said.

“I get a lot of joy from being able to assist and advocate for people, sometimes people that aren’t able to help themselves.

“I asked myself, ‘How can I do this rewarding work while getting paid?’, and I thought ‘Hey, I can join Victoria Police’.

“So, I went through the Academy doors in 2019 and that was my goal, to get into community engagement work.”

Sen Const McGrath admits he found general duties policing a challenge, as he juggled his empathy towards all people, even those who ‘struggle to make good decisions’, with his duty to enforce the law.

After completing short stints at Preston and Epping police stations along his policing journey, Sen Const McGrath now works in Transit and Public Safety Command’s Transit Proactive Unit, which suits him ‘to a tee’.

His role involves community engagement operations such as Safe PL8, where police hand out anti-theft number plate screws while chatting with the community, and discussing rail safety at train stations with kids and adults alike.

“It’s very rewarding being able to help and advocate for others, especially when the outcome will be a positive one,” Sen Const McGrath said.

While enjoying his current role, Sen Const McGrath said he was a country boy at heart, and the pull to return to his rural roots was strong.

He still helps out on the farm, using his nine weeks’ leave each year to pitch in with shearing and other tasks.

“Ideally, I’ll build my policing skills here in Melbourne, to be able to transfer to a country station in the next three to four years,” he said.

“I don’t have a specific area in mind,

but I would prefer a smaller station where I can really get to know the local community.”

And while his career means he’s now hundreds of kilometres from the Wimmera, Sen Const McGrath said the skills he mastered on the farm have given him the confidence to handle anything that comes his way.

“I’ve wrestled 140kg sheep around the shearing shed and out in the open paddock, so there’s not much that phases me,” he said.

First published in Police Life magazine. For more, visit police.vic.gov.au/ police-life.

CUT ABOVE: A desire to make an impact in his community led Senior Constable Tom McGrath away from the shearing sheds to a career in policing.

Dane George Warracknabeal Secondary College I want to be a plumber, I’m currently studying this at VET subject. I’m hoping to get a school-based apprenticeship.

Amelie Faulkner Murtoa College I would like to go into paramedicine and study at Bendigo. I’m going to the expo to see all the opportunities and pathways I can take.

Tuesday, June 25

Get a feel for early-years teaching

By

Five’s interactive walkthrough exhibit will put Western Victorian Careers Expo visitors straight into an early childhood learning centre – just without the children.

Teacher Mary-Ellen Lamont said people would be able to experience the hands-on learning resources children use in their everyday at early learning centres.

“We will have a lots of experiences for potential teachers to see what early childhood is all about – from drawing to playdough, and more,” she said.

“We are showing how children learn through play and how important the first five years of a child’s life are in shaping them as a person – it’s not all learnt at school.”

Ms Lamont said there were different pathways into early childhood education, with the minimum qualification a Certificate III in early childhood.

“People coming into early childhood do not have to finish school, they can sit a literacy and numeracy test and go from there, or come in as a VET student.

“We have VET students each Wednesday, they are working through four units of Certificate III each year, and by the time they finish year 12,

Find a job

BY TRACEY KING

they are halfway through their certificate.

“They can then go into their Bachelor of Education if they want to.”

People working in early childhood often upskill around their own lifestyles, such as after taking parental leave and raising their own children.

Early childhood teacher Alice Crick said education was an accommodating workforce.

“It’s a very caring industry for both children and educators, accommodating men and women from all walks of life,” she said.

“It is a very important profession. It’s not spoken enough about how important the first five years of a child’s learning are, once that time has gone, it is gone.

“I’m also primary school trained, but I choose to work in a kinder because this timeframe, I think, is most important, before they hit five years of age,” Ms Crick said.

Educator positions exist across the Wimmera, with a need for more when the State Government’s pre-prep program of up to 30 hours of kinder is rolled out from next year.

By Five, Emerge and Department of Education will be represented at the expo, with information on a variety of roles within education and care.

you enjoy...

BY FIVE PROJECT MANAGER

Have you thought about what you might do when you leave school?’

This is a question many of us may have dreaded in our lives at family gettogethers or school interviews.

The weight of that question, when you just don’t know, can be overwhelming – consuming not only for students approaching the end of secondary schooling, but for their families and teaching staff who are invested.

All parties are hoping you can find the career pathway you enjoy, but it is a tough conversation to endure.

We live in a world where there are many opportunities and options, but it can be difficult to know where to start when beginning your career, looking for a change or perhaps re-entering the workforce.

you’ll never have to work a day in your life

Fortunately, a winding career path is expected.

Gone are the days when you may have had two or three options and that was your career for life.

It is rare that an individual remains in one profession for their entire working life. University of Queensland estimates the average person could accumulate about 16 jobs before retirement.

If you or someone you know is looking for options to consider, it is worth dedicating some time to tackle those hard conversations.

Talk to others about their career path, what they do and do not like about their jobs. Take time to discuss this with people you trust and respect. Identify your skills, interests and most importantly, think about what you love.

By Five recently worked with Early Childhood Education and Care, ECEC, consisting of staff from kin-

EAST GRAMPIANS HEALTH SERVICE

Improving the health of our community

East Grampians Health Service values a learning culture, we strive to continually learn and develop through education, training, mentoring and by teaching others.

Meet members of the East Grampians Health Service team at the Wimmera Careers Expo, to learn more about the exciting and diverse careers a health service can o er!

dergarten and early learning centre settings to identify the pressure points in the sector.

The educators also shared why they enjoyed working in ECEC.

Many educators spoke passionately about the satisfaction they felt when witnessing children experience that ‘I can do it’ moment.

There is nothing that shines so brightly as a child’s eyes who has learnt to master a new skill – writing their name, zipping up their jacket, tying up a shoelace, making new friends, learning how to take turns, saying hello in a new language or building a very big sandcastle as high as the sky.

Educators also enjoy supporting children and families to make a difference in the world, educating and caring for children, learning through discovery and play in safe and fun environments.

Further aspects they highlighted

were enjoyment working with a team of like-minded people and witnessing growth in all facets of children’s development.

ECEC educators pointed out extensive opportunities for various leadership roles they found interesting and challenging.

Like all industries, the early years sector needs an increased workforce. We need quantity and quality educators who are passionate about keeping that sparkle in children’s eyes, ensuring there are bucketfuls of ‘I can do moments’ in the first five years for each child.

Across the Wimmera Southern Mallee, most ECEC centres have positions available for a variety of roles – early childhood teachers and educators, education leaders, directors and managers.

As the State Government pre-prep program rolls out across our regions, developing a quality workforce has

perhaps never been more significant. If you enjoy working with children and are passionate about education and caring young minds, visit the By Five team at site 51 at the upcoming Western Victorian Careers Expo. We will showcase the important work of the ECEC sector and highlight the possibilities and benefits of working in such an important field. You, or someone you know, may enjoy being an ECEC educator. You will have a chance to talk with people who work in the sector, such as kindergarten teachers, local kindergarten improvement staff from the Department of Education and registered training organisations.

As Mark Twain said, ‘Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life.’

For more information you can visit the Department of Education: www. education.gov.au/early-childhood/ early-childhood-workforce

HANDS-ON: Educators, from left, Tracey King, Mary-Ellen Lamont and Alice Crick with Grace Lamont, 2, and Fred Crick, 5, at By Five’s Bani Manya Kinder, Horsham.

Picture: BRONWYN HASTINGS

Careers @ 2024

CONVERSATION STARTER: Wimmera students and teachers are reaping the benefits of a virtual reality program being used in schools across the state – it gives students exposure to a variety of industries, and keeps teachers up-todate in current opportunities and practices.

Attendees at this year’s Western Victorian Careers Expo are able to experience up to 14 ‘worlds of work’ using VIC VICE, Victoria’s Virtual Industry Career Experience program.

The program features ‘touch points’, which allow the user to experience something that typically happens in workplaces. It gives insight into a range of associated jobs that might not have been considered by students, but can be easily explored, and overcomes difficulties in career exposure presented by distance

and workplace safety concerns. Funded by the State Government to scale the use of VR careers education statewide, VIC VICE is already in use across many schools, giving industry exposure to young people so they can make informed choices about their subjects and pathways. The program offers experiences in areas of food and fibre, transport and logistics, and health and community services, in careers such as dairy farming and meat processing, mechanics, logistics, early childhood, aged care, disability, dental health, and rehabilitation.

Students graduating from secondary school often opt to take a gap year before moving into tertiary education. Others choose to study online and work while living at home, which affords them the opportunity to build savings and gain more experience in an industry they want to work in. This approach is also beneficial for local businesses in retaining staff and filling vacancies in the job market.

Marli Pymer

Marli completed her VCE at Horsham College in 2023.

She was accepted into Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at Deakin University, Geelong in 2024.

For the past two years, Marli has worked as a kitchen-hand at Grampians Health’s Horsham campus after school and plans to work casual shifts in the kitchen when she is not studying and during term breaks this year.

“Working at the hospital helps me to pay for my accommodation and living expenses at uni. I enjoy it, the staff are very supportive,” she said.

Head chef Stephen Hill said staff were glad to have Marli on-site.

“We are proud of her academic achievements and appreciate her contribution in the kitchen,” he said.

Meyer

Portia is working as an accounts payable officer in the finance department of Grampians Health Horsham campus.

She finished her VCE at Horsham College in 2021 and is now studying fashion marketing online, with the aim to work as a brand and marketing manager.

“Working at Grampians Health has been an amazing way to save money while studying,” she said.

“My work hours have been flexible, which suits my study commitments.

“Grampians Health has been a great environment to work in.

“Working with different people from a range of areas has been a very rewarding experience.”

Amber McClure

Amber has completed a gap year with Grampians Health.

Working as an allied health assistant at Edenhope campus has allowed Amber to expand her skills and capabilities in health care and save some money in preparation for her tertiary studies.

“I have enjoyed working at the Edenhope campus,” she said.

“Being able to help people regain their mobility and improve their quality of life is very rewarding.

“Working alongside respected allied health professionals has provided me with an insight into a range of healthcare disciplines.”

Amber aims to complete a double degree in nursing and midwifery, before studying further to become a maternal child health nurse.

Tuesday, June 25

Wimmera

Careers with Smallaire

Smallaire is holding an interactive site at the Western Victoria Careers Expo where you can have a go at welding for yourself.

Get hands on experience with the help of a professional team that works with clients across Australia and oversees, including the United States, Russia, Holland, South Africa and more

“I’m fully-qualified in metal fabrication with Smallaire. Smallaire offers a great environment with a nice wide variety of work to do everyday... you learn a lot of different skills. By the time you get to tradeschool, Smallaire have already taught you a lot of the skills you need to know, so school is a breeze.”

He is now an OH&S Officer and Metal Fabricator Supervisor

Grant Dumesny was an award-winning apprentice of the year in 2014. He left after his apprenticeship to try other elds of welding and now has returned to Smallaire as he enjoys working for us so much.

Tess Jones

Tess has commenced a gap year in the kitchen and cafe at Grampians Health’s Horsham campus.

Tess is interested in marine biology and has applied for courses in Queensland and Deakin University at Warrnambool for enrolment in the 2025 intake.

Tess plans to travel to America and Europe to visit family later this year.

“I have the opportunity to earn some real money during my gap year, which I can use for travel or to go to uni in 2025,” she said.

“I have learnt new skills and enjoyed my work in the kitchen.”

Jock Baker, left, has worked for Smallaire for 30 years. He began work in the factory, became a supervisor, completed his metal fab apprenticeship with us as an adult, and has since become the general manager of Smallaire. He is also a shareholder.

Smallaire lets you gain optimum experience and allows staff to grow.

We offer mature-age and school-based apprenticeships.

Josh Leith

Portia

Tuesday, June 25

Wimmera Events Centre,

Sharing our passion with audiences

ACE Radio’s MIXX FM, 3WM and The Weekly Advertiser staff will be on hand to promote opportunities in the media industry at the careers expo.

ACE Radio, owned by Rowly and Judy Paterson, of Willaura, was formed in 1984 and has grown over the years to include 21 radio stations, The Weekly Advertiser newspaper, ACE Digital and ACE Direct Sales, employing more than 200 people across Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland.

MIXX FM announcers Kaycee Tickner and Kayla Wilson will broadcast on-site at Wimmera Events Centre between 10am and 2pm on Tuesday, allowing the public to see the infectious energy they bring to the airwaves every weekday from the ACE Radio Horsham studios.

Other ACE Radio team members, across radio, print and digital, will also be in attendance to share their experiences of working in radio and media in a wide range of roles.

ACE Radio 3WM and MIXX FM content director Anthony Thompson said the expo was an ideal opportunity for people to look behind the dial and peer into the many and varied opportunities in media and entertainment, which could start close to home at ACE Radio.

Mr Thompson said roles in radio included delivering local news through broadcast journalism, developing online content for websites and social media channels, and writing, voicing

and producing creative and engaging client commercials.

“There are countless other skills we employ in the radio station to deliver in our various roles of promotions, sales, scheduling, graphic design, videography, audio production, talent development and team management,” he said.

“Ultimately, our shared passions come together to entertain and inform our listeners while being an integral part of building growth and sustain-

able success for the local business community.”

Mr Thompson said there was much more to radio than meets the ear.

“While the media landscape continues to evolve rapidly, the skills and passion that we employ and grow behind the scenes is what keeps local radio fun, entertaining, inclusive and relevant,” he said.

your foot in the door in the media,” she said.

The Weekly Advertiser’s editorial team includes editors, journalists and photographers – all roles that work across both print, digital and social media.

“It all starts with finding stories, so having a connection to the local community can be advantageous,” Ms Henry said.

“Being a journalist or a photographer is a fun career – you learn so much every day, meet people you never thought you would, and if you choose to do so, can work across various mediums to present your stories.

“It is a great privilege to tell people’s stories, as well as be the driving force behind campaigns and issues to make your local community a better place to live.”

Ms Henry said newspapers had evolved in her career, which included working at media companies such as the ABC and Bendigo Advertiser, and had adapted to expand its audience by creating digital content as well.

“The Weekly Advertiser is a strong regional newspaper with a bright future,” she said.

The Weekly Advertiser editorial director Lauren Henry encouraged people interested in a media career to approach ACE Radio staff to find out more information.

“We offer so many different roles, in Horsham and across our network, and our company values employing local people, so it’s a great way to get

“Broadcasting from the careers expo is a highlight for our team, as we each have the chance to share our passion for broadcasting with people attending, as well as demonstrating how we achieve the high standards we aim for every day.”

“We have a great team of professionals, including our production staff who excel in graphic design skills and work with our account managers to create compelling advertisements for our clients.

“We take great pride in putting together our newspaper each week and providing our community with all they need to know in local news.”

ON AIR: MIXX FM announcers Kaycee Tickner, left, and Kayla Wilson, with The Weekly Advertiser’s Bronwyn Hastings, right, will broadcast on-site at Wimmera Events Centre on Tuesday. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Issabella Hibberd Murtoa College

I want to work in the medical field, as a nurse or in paramedicine.

I’m going to the expo to figure out uni and the best pathways. I’d like to do a few years of nursing before I move into paramedicine.

Andrew Klee Nhill College

In the future I would like to either become a mechanic or study engineering.

Tuesday, June 25

Get hands-on at Laser site

Two

Wimmera electrical apprentices are encouraging secondary students interested in learning a trade to make the most of opportunities available at next week’s Western Victorian Careers Expo.

Mitch Amos and Colby Anderson visited the Laser Plumbing and Electrical Horsham site at last year’s expo and are now employed by the business.

Mitch started a school-based apprenticeship in January, while Colby is a first-year electrical apprentice.

Laser Plumbing and Electrical Horsham employs about 70 staff in a wide range of roles and specialises in electrical, plumbing, heating, cooling and solar trades.

Mitch said he had considered pursuing a career as an electrician before last year’s expo and was pleased to have an opportunity to discuss his options.

“I spoke to one of the managers, Corey, about the pathway I would need to take and he said the best way would be for me to do some work experience,” he said.

“I was doing VCE last year, I was at school five days a week. With a school-based apprenticeship I do one day at Laser, one day at trade school and the rest at school. It breaks up the week and I’m really enjoying it.

“I get to work on a variety of projects. A lot of them are around school areas, such as the St Arnaud high school.”

Colby already had hands-on industry

experience when he spoke with HVAC manager Leigh Stewart at last year’s expo.

“I was doing three days at school, one day of VET and one day of work experience with another electrical contractor,” Colby said.

“I had an interest in becoming an electrician and I wanted to learn more about Laser, so I spoke to Leigh and wrote down my details.

“Leigh got back to me and I did a week of work experience with him and the HVAC team, but I really wanted to be a sparky, so I did two weeks with the maintenance team and I really enjoyed it.

“They offered me a job and now I’m a first-year electrical apprentice.

“I work in the maintenance division and I get to do a lot of different jobs – I love it.”

Both Colby and Mitch encouraged anyone interested in learning more about what their employer had to offer to visit the Laser Horsham site in the Try-A-Trade section.

“If you’re interested in a trade, I’d definitely recommend stopping by to talk to the guys from Laser. It’s always good to learn new things and in the electrical industry, there is so much you can learn,” Colby said.

Mr Stewart encouraged students and job-seekers to visit the Laser site to explore various career options.

He said the team would again run a competition to encourage expo-goers to try their hand at electrical, plumbing and HVAC – heating, ventilation and air-conditioning – tasks.

ON THE JOB: Laser Plumbing and Electrical Horsham apprentices Mitch Amos, left, and Colby Anderson are encouraging students and job-seekers interested in learning a trade to visit the business’s interactive site at Tuesday’s Western Victorian Careers Expo.

“The competition was really popular last year and we will be putting together something similar this year,” he said.

“It gives people an opportunity to try some of the trades’ basic tasks firsthand and encourages them to see what they are capable of.”

A $100 West Vic Business gift voucher is up for grabs for the competition’s male and female winners.

Mr Stewart said Laser Horsham was a long-time supporter of Structured Workplace Learning, enabling stu-

dents to integrate hands-on experience with their studies.

He said the business had a long history of employing Wimmera youth and sourced its apprentices with help from regional careers advisors.

He encouraged anyone interested in learning more about career pathways and options to visit the Laser Horsham site or call the office on 5382 1375.

•Laser Plumbing and Electrical Horsham will be at site 74 in the Try-ATrade section.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Exhibitor List

Unearthing a great career

WIM Resource, a Horshambased mineral sands exploration and mining company, which owns Avonbank Mine near Dooen, will have a new feature at this year’s Western Victorian Careers Expo – a unique mini spiral separator machine.

The machine demonstrates that by using water and gravity, heavy minerals can be efficiently separated from the mined sand.

WIM Resource community and stakeholder liaison officer Murray Wilson said WIM was proud to continue as major sponsor of the expo, a partnership now in its third year.

“Along with being able to showcase our unique model of a mineral sand separator spiral, we will also have an interactive stand showcasing the mineral sands industry, displays of everyday products derived from

mineral sands, giveaways, project information and take-home materials,” he said.

WIM Resource will also deliver a seminar discussing career opportunities to gain employment in the mining and resources industry, at noon in the WIM Resources features room, which is open to all students and expo patrons.

“We will discuss WIM’s flagship Avonbank mine and the possible future careers which could be on offer,” Mr Wilson said.

The seminar aims to encourage participants to set themselves on a path to jobs in the mining industry and gain a better appreciation and understanding of the type of jobs WIM Resource could be offering in the near future as part of its proposed 36-year Avonbank Mine that will offer more than 200 direct jobs each year.

Longerenong College tours

Bus tours of Longerenong College will leave the careers expo at 10am and noon, giving people the opportunity to view all the campus has to offer.

The agricultural college boasts indoor and outdoor classrooms and learning spaces, an innovation centre,

expanding student accommodation, a commercial farm and livestock.

Led by trainers and members of the Longerenong Student Association, people can find out more about pathways into careers such as agronomy, agriculture, wool classing and agribusiness management.

Ready to learn ‘all things automotive’

Jed

Hermans is new to the automotive industry – he started a Toyota Pro Technician apprenticeship at Horsham Motor Company on Monday.

Finishing school at the end of year11, Mr Hermans worked at Horsham Cyclery until an opportunity came up at Horsham Motor Company to begin an apprenticeship.

Working under service manager Tony Cunningham, Mr Hermans is following in his father’s footsteps –Peter was a salesman at the company.

The 18-year-old will attend trade school at Toyota in Altona five or six times a year, with learning blocks varying between two and five days in length.

Mr Cunningham said Mr Hermans was the second apprentice at the company, and both have the choice of pathways and promotion at the business.

“We have had a bit of movement in the workshop lately – we’ve lost a couple of technicians, so I’ve put my car cleaner up to be the accessory fitter,” he said.

“It’s the same path I took. I started about 12 years ago in the wash bay and worked my way up to accessory fitter, then I was service advisor for seven years, and now I’ve been in the manager’s role for five weeks.”

A former St Brigid’s College student, Mr Hermans’ apprenticeship is managed by Skillinvest.

“I’m looking forward to being able to look at an engine bay and know exactly what I’m looking at,” he said.

Try

– Bronwyn Hastings

NEW BEGINNING: Jed Hermans is only days into an apprenticeship at Horsham Motor Company, working under service manager Tony Cunningham to learn ‘all things automotive’. Picture: BRONWYN HASTINGS

Blooming good outcomes

Two of Horsham Rural City Council’s parks and gardens team members have finished three-year apprenticeships and are now looking forward to long careers in horticulture.

Lauren Player and Montana Petering have officially completed Certificate III in Parks and Gardens Horticulture.

Both are now working as fully qualified members of the HRCC parks and gardens team.

Lauren Player

What started your interest in gardening?

I grew up in Queensland and have always enjoyed being outdoors.

I particularly like the practical side of my job. Planting out trees and flowerbeds and creating great displays which all the community can enjoy is very rewarding.

What’s it like to work in the parks and gardens team?

The council has provided me with the opportunity to progress, and has supported me to develop my skills.

The organisation provides a safe and supportive work environment, and I really enjoy working with my team.

They bring experience and knowledge from different backgrounds and so there is a lot that we can learn from each other.

What equipment have you learned to use?

Dingo Mini Digger, skid steer loader, mini street sweeper, gang mower, front deck mower, Husky mower,

cricket pitch roller, chainsaw, pole saw, tree chipper and smaller tools such as a whipper snipper, hedge trimmer, backpack blower, handheld blower and an edger.

Montana Petering

What do you like about your job?

As a gardener at the council there is a wide variety of jobs and tasks to do, such as hedge trimming, planting annuals, street sweeping footpaths and planting out new gardens beds. This variety of tasks means there is always something different happening at work.

I like the flexible work arrangements at the council, working an

eight-day fortnight. I also enjoy working with my colleagues as they share the same interests of gardening and make work more enjoyable.

What skills have you developed?

I’ve learnt how to maintain public gardens and reserves, weed control, chemical use and handling, tree maintenance, plant and turf nutrition and mowing and irrigation maintenance. Would you recommend a career in Local Government?

I definitely recommend a career at the council for school leavers who like hands-on work and enjoy working outside every day.

You will learn lots of new skills and gain great knowledge in the job

ON THE JOB:

Horsham

Rural City Council parks and gardens

team members

Lauren Player, left, and Montana Petering enjoy the wide variety of jobs in their role.

you’re working as well as enjoying working outside in the fresh air.

The environment at the council is very friendly and co-workers will help teach you so you can do your job to the best of your ability.

What do you enjoy about living and working in the Wimmera?

I can go for a walk along the Wimmera River and greet others with a smile.

I also enjoy how friendly the community is and the opportunities there are such as playing for a local football and netball club, going to see a performance at the town hall, eating out for tea, or catching up with friends at a park or nice spot.

Free travel for all-ages event

People planning to visit the Western Victorian Careers Expo at Longerenong can use a free transport service, with a round-trip from Horsham.

Jobseekers and career-changers of all ages are welcome at the expo to explore the many and varied jobs and careers available to them in the area.

Although the expo is heavily visited by senior school students – about 2000 are expected at the one-day event –there are many aspects relevant to people who want to change careers or are looking for work.

Finding a job out of school and staying in one career is a thing of the past, with younger generations most likely to have many jobs, and a handful of careers, in their lifetime.

Generation Z – those born between 1997 and 2012 – can expect to have 16 to 17 jobs across five to seven careers. While several factors could influence this, from jobs evolving and taking many forms and time fractions, to the availability of study at home to aid career advancement, it pairs well with the need for people to work longer.

Retirement age has extended from 65 to 67 years of age in the past four years, and is expected to extend further for future generations.

The expo boasts about 85 exhibits of employment and training opportunities, no matter the age and stage of the jobseeker.

The free bus service leaves from the YMCA carpark in Hamilton Street, Horsham at 10am, returning to the carpark at 12.30pm.

THINKING ABOUT A CAREER IN MINING AND RESOURCES?

As a future major employer for the region WIM is committed to working with local communities and businesses to develop the regions workforce.

Visit our stand to:

♦ learn more about employment options in the mining and resources industry

♦ discuss and experience the various products for which mineral sands are used

♦ join us for a ‘Careers in Mining’ panel session

♦ view the unique water and gravity model spiral used for separating mineral sands

♦ chat with WIM staff and professionals from the mineral sands mining industry.

We hope to see you there on Tuesday, 25th June!

A peek inside a prison career

Hopkins Correctional Centre representatives at the Western Victorian Careers Expo will show people who have wondered what it is like to work in a prison, what it is all about.

The Ararat staff say most people have a particular idea – high walls, dark corridors and people kept under lock and key, day and night.

But the reality can be a lot different, and being a prison officer can be a rewarding career with opportunities to make a positive impact on the community and the lives of people in custody, all while enjoying competitive pay and career development opportunities.

Whether people are just starting out in their career or want a change – if they have life experience, are motivated to serve the community and like to see others succeed, becoming a prison officer could be the career for them.

Prison officer Eloise always dreamed of turning her passion for true crime and psychology into a career after studying behavioural science and criminal justice.

When she joined Hopkins Correctional Centre, Eloise was surprised her previous experience in retail gave her the skills she needed to excel in her new role, particularly strong communication skills.

“Prison officers are always communicating with people from different backgrounds, and these are skills that I gained working in customer service and retail,” Eloise said.

“No matter your background, if

DEVELOPMENT: Hopkins Correctional Centre prison officer Eloise has used her retail and customer service skills in her role at the prison – she enjoys being able to support people in custody to make better choices for their best outcomes.

you’re a team player with strong communication skills, empathy and a passion for helping people, your skills will set you up for success.”

When Eloise told her friends and family about her new job, they had some misconceptions about what the job would be like, but she soon found that it was a much safer job than many people thought.

“When I first joined Corrections Victoria, my friends were supportive, but my mum was worried because of what

she had read in the media. Now she knows more about the work I do and that I have never felt unsafe, she is a lot more comfortable,” she said.

Prison officers receive five weeks of paid annual leave, competitive pay rates, and ongoing learning and development programs to support career growth, but it is the opportunity to make a positive difference that Eloise likes best about her job.

“My favourite part of the job is encouraging positive behaviour change

and supporting people in custody to make better choices,” she said.

“There’s no better feeling than going home at the end of the day knowing you made a difference.”

People who are looking for a rewarding career, can become a prison officer with Corrections Victoria, Eloise says.

New recruits might be eligible for a $5000 sign-on bonus as well as 41 days of paid training.

To find out more or to apply, visit justice.vic.gov.au/careers.

Diverse council roles on show

West

Wimmera Shire Council will showcase a range of career opportunities, from engineering to project management and early years education to community development, at the Western Victorian Careers Expo next week.

The council’s focus at the event is to show the range of opportunities available within the organisation, with staff from different departments on hand to speak to on the day.

Council executive David Bezuidenhout said the expo gave the council a fantastic opportunity to engage with students and present the rewarding career opportunities at the council.

“Staff are looking forward to sharing insights into the diverse roles within our organisation and demonstrating the value of contributing to our vibrant rural community,” he said.

“Whether students are interested in engineering, environmental management, community development, early years education, administration or project management, there will be professionals available to provide valuable guidance and information on the many diverse roles available in local government.”

Staff will talk about their different roles, how they started working in them, and what skills and qualifications they needed to obtain the role.

The council hopes to highlight the many varying positions it can offer, and show the value in working in small rural communities.

Any current vacancies will be visible on the day.

The council’s stand at the expo is being supported by Engage Victoria, which supports young people to create, participate in, and engage with activities, projects, programs and services that assist them to fully participate in the communities they work and live in.

For more information about career opportunities with West Wimmera Shire Council, visit www.westwimmera.vic.gov.au/Council/Employment.

IN TRAINING: Kaniva kindergarten trainee Georgie King working with a child.

Cole Fraser Stawell Secondary College I hope to study photography.

Charlotte Donnell Nhill College I would like to work either in the health industry or sports industry.

Sienna Cox Stawell Secondary College I would like to work in agriculture.

I’d

a

I am looking to working in a trade, specifically building. I am doing Building and Construction through VET.

Ezekiel Clark Warracknabeal Secondary College

I want to be a defence lawyer. I am looking forward to checking out difference universities at the careers expo.

Ehdowpaw

College I would like to go to university and work in the childcare industry.

Tuesday, June 25

Wimmera Events Centre,

Coen Winch Murtoa College

I’m going to the expo to look at my options in being a diesel mechanic. I’ll probably go to Horsham to do it.

I’d like to work in the equine industry.

Early Years Manager for:

Bani Manya Kindergarten (Horsham)

Bennett Road Kindergarten (Horsham)

Cooinda Kindergarten (Stawell)

Dimboola Kindergarten (Hindmarsh)

Green Park Kindergarten (Horsham)

Jeparit Kindergarten (Hindmarsh)

Marrang Kindergarten (Stawell)

Ayva Mitchell Stawell Secondary College I’d like to work in physiotherapy or nursing.

UMM asking the questions

Since the start of 2023, WorkSafe has accepted 3501 claims from young workers, aged 15 to 24, who were seriously injured at Victorian workplaces.

There were 44 in the Wimmera region, which includes the Hindmarsh, Horsham, Northern Grampians, West Wimmera and Yarriambiack local government areas.

WorkSafe has re-introduced a quirky character in a new series of its videos, social media, regional press and digital communications, named ‘UMM’ for the expression that comes to mind when people are unsure of what to say or do.

The videos including UMM respond to a range of common unsafe scenarios young workers may face in retail, manufacturing, fast food, hospitality, health care and construction.

WorkSafe executive director health and safety Sam Jenkin said the UMM character was created by young people, for young people, and speaks to those who might have recently started their first part-time or fulltime jobs.

“Young workers can be a fantastic asset to any team and often bring lots of energy to their role, but sometimes their lack of experience and confidence may mean young workers are less likely to ask questions if something doesn’t seem right,” he said.

“UMM is here to remind young workers that it’s ok to speak up and that no one should ever be made to feel unsafe at work –whether it’s being asked to work without the right safety equipment or having to deal with aggressive behaviour or language.”

For more information about safety for young workers, visit worksafe.vic.gov.au/ umm.

Marrang Kindergarten & Early Learning Centre (Stawell)

Natimuk Preschool (Horsham)

Natimuk Road Kindergarten (Horsham)

Nhill Early Learning Centre (Hindmarsh) Rainbow Kindergarten (Hindmarsh)

Messi

Nhill

Freya Kellas Stawell Secondary College

Archie McQueen Murtoa College I

Rachael Camilleri Warracknabeal Secondary College

Tyronne Jamieson Stawell Secondary College

like to get a trade, as

carpenter or an electrician.

Nurse, travel, grow

Growing up, Rebecca White always dreamed of becoming a veterinary surgeon – until her grandfather was diagnosed with a brain tumour and her life became immersed in the world of the intensive care unit.

She became fascinated with the life-saving work being performed in the ICU, and so began her career in healthcare, ultimately becoming West Wimmera Health Service Nhill Director of Nursing.

“I started as a Graduate Nurse at Austin Health in 1995,” Ms White said.

“I went on to study a Graduate Diploma in Critical Care, worked my way up as an associate nurse unit manager and nurse unit manager before furthering my studies.

“I completed a Graduate Diploma of Midwifery Science and then started working as the ‘twin midwife’ at Mercy Hospital for Women.”

Driven to succeed and experience life to the full, Ms White has been offered endless opportunities throughout her career.

This includes travelling Australia in a caravan with her family and working as a nurse and midwife in rural and remote settings across Western Australia, to stepping up into leadership roles in large metro-

politan hospitals, co-ordinating multiple facilities with 900-bed capacities.

She is now bringing her expertise to West Wimmera Health Service as the Director of Nursing in Nhill.

“West Wimmera Health Service has welcomed and supported me and I feel privileged to be able to share my knowledge and skillset with all nursing staff to ensure the future of nursing in the Wimmera looks bright,” Ms White said.

“I enjoy all aspects of my role in healthcare, but my passion is leading and supporting teams, succession planning, strategy and change management.

“I love supporting nurses to reach their potential.”

“My advice to new nurses would be to specialise early and get as much experience as you can in lots of different clinical areas, including in rural and remote settings”

– Rebecca White, left

With a clear passion for both the nursing and midwifery professions, Ms White is committed to sharing her knowledge, and encourages people considering a career in healthcare to absolutely pursue it.

“Nursing is a very rewarding career and there are so many paths you can take,” she said.

“It offers challenging and difficult work at times, but even to change the life of one nurse or one patient makes it worthwhile.

“My advice to new nurses would be to specialise early and get as much experience as you can in lots of different clinical areas, including in rural and remote settings – they’re vastly different to the metro hospitals and offer a unique experience that you just can’t get in the cities.”

West Wimmera Health Service will be at the careers expo to speak with people interested in working in health care.

A healthy foot in the door

School students are gaining valuable insights into future career paths – including health sector options podiatry, physiotherapy and allied health – during the traditional year10 work experience.

Horsham College year 10 student Wahsaypaw Payhae, who aspires to a nursing career, has gained a hands-on understanding of the hospital environment after a week of work experience with Grampians Health.

Grampians Health careers advisor and training officer Andrew Vague said Wahsaypaw was the first of 10 students who would complete a week’s experience in a range of clinical and non-clinical areas.

“I’m always very grateful the heads of our various departments are welcoming to the students and involve them in the

work as much as they can,” Mr Vague said.

“The students get opportunities to work in a range of different clinical and non-clinical areas including the laundry, kitchen, stores, orderly/cleaner, physiotherapy, speech pathology, podiatry, dietetics, social work, occupational therapy, allied health assistant and meaningful life at the Wimmera Nursing Home.

“For someone like Wahsaypaw who is looking at nursing as a career, that background can prove invaluable, and for Grampians Health, it’s a great way to showcase the career opportunities right here in the Wimmera.”

Mr Vague said many students who have completed work experience, or worked as juniors at Grampians Health Horsham, have returned to work in Horsham and other regional health settings.

INSIGHT: Horsham College year-10 student Wahsaypaw Payhae on work experience at Grampians Health Horsham.

Lani starts career in health

Marian

College year-12 stu-

dent Lani Coburn is East Grampians Health Service’s first health service assistant to be employed at 70 Lowe Street and is revelling in the opportunities provided by the position and the skills she is learning on the job.

Lani completed the iVET Certificate III in Health Service Assistant course in 2023.

The course is based at Ararat College and offered to students who attend Ararat College, Marian College and Stawell Secondary College.

It is a self-paced course that can be completed within a two-year period. With a studious approach to her learning, Lani completed all requirements of the course in one year and is now utilising her skills in her part-time job as a health service assistant.

EGHS training and development manager Claire Sladdin said the organisation was a strong supporter of the Certificate III in Health Service Assistant course, which had been offered at Ararat College since 2018.

“It is taught by experienced registered nurse Michelle Moors, who utilises East Grampians Health Service’s practical laboratory to teach students clinical skills related to provide first aid and safe patient handling,” she said.

Ms Sladdin said it was recognised that early industry engagement with secondary school students was the key to engaging students in careers they might be considering.

“I am regularly invited to meet with the Certificate III in Health Service Assistant students to discuss career pathways in nursing and healthcare overall,” she said.

“This includes being employed parttime within school-friendly hours as a health service assistant, following successful completion of the first-year requirements of the course.”

With endorsement from iVET, EGHS mapped the course criteria to develop a Health Service Assistant position, encompassing the skills health service assistants can deliver in providing care for consumers who reside in residential aged care facilities.

Lani had a keen interest in nursing

and medicine, completing work experience at EGHS in year 10, which then led to her enrolment in the Certificate III in Health Service Assistant course and her subsequent employment at EGHS.

Lani is positive about her new role and the work she undertakes at 70 Lowe Street.

“The job is so rewarding and enjoyable and I feel like I am making a real difference,” she said.

Lani has learnt the importance of hand hygiene in maintaining infection control and mostly utilises her skills related to safe patient handling, in caring for consumers at 70 Lowe Street. She is mentored by endorsed en-

WORKING TO CONNECT

REWARDING: East Grampians Health Service health service assistant Lani Coburn with 70 Lowe Street resident Chook. Lani is employed at the centre while completing year 12.

rolled nurse Leah McCarthy, whom she works alongside during her rostered shifts, which are after school and on weekends, suiting Lani’s busy schedule and year-12 commitments.

“EGHS is thrilled to offer students like Lani the opportunity to work in the health-industry from a young age,” Ms Sladdin said.

“By investing in members of our community, EGHS continues to ‘grow our own’.

“Lani is an excellent ambassador for EGHS and for fellow students to consider the Certificate III in Health Service Assistant course offered within our local community, as a pathway to a health-related career.”

The School 2 Work Statewide Portal helps school students to find work placements with employers across Victoria. The School 2 Work Portal has a wide range of opportunities with Wimmera and Southern Mallee placed host employers.

EMPLOYERS:

Are you looking at connecting youth with your business? Call Wimmera Southern Mallee LLEN’s School 2 Work Team today

CONTACT: Wimmera Southern Mallee LLEN School 2 Work Team (03) 5381 0122 swl@llen.com.au Proud sponsors of the Western Victorian Careers Expo

Lily Adler Murtoa College I want to study at Monash to be an art teacher. I want to have a look at current course information and do a double bachelor in secondary education and fine arts, to eventually teach VCE art.

Macie Nitschke Warracknabeal Secondary College I’m not really sure what I want to be, but I am interested in going to university and working with children.

Embracing our communities

Rural Northwest Health will showcase its career opportunities across its Warracknabeal, Hopetoun and Beulah campuses at the Western Victorian Careers Expo.

A large rural health service, RNH offers many opportunities to both commence and cultivate careers across a comprehensive range of acute, urgent, aged care, and a wide range of community health and allied services.

As a diverse, innovative and equal opportunity employer, Rural Northwest Health is growing day by day, and has employed more than 100 new team members during the past 15 months in nursing, community health and wellbeing, personal care, leisure and lifestyle, environmental and food services, and finance and administration.

This was no mean feat when you consider the Yarriambiack region continues to recover from COVID and drought, while also juggling housing shortages.

As well as paid roles, there are voluntary roles for people of all ages, offering an opportunity for people to try out the industry before committing to training or study.

RNH’s volunteer program has about 55 active volunteers who give varying amounts of time – from an hour or two each month to several hours or days each week.

RNH values each and every volunteer greatly, as the time they give enhances the lives and social outcomes of the residents.

The diversity of the volunteer roles ranges from the RNH auxiliary, who play a vital role in raising funds and awareness for RNH, the volunteer drivers who transport residents to appointments, volunteer artists who attend several times a year to play an instrument and sing, and students who visit the residents within a literacy program.

Many volunteers engage with the

residents by dining with them, accompanying the resident on outings, enjoying a cuppa with them, playing scrabble, cards, bingo, or any number of other fun activities.

It is always an exciting time welcoming a new team member, and all add something special to their teams and communities, whether it is their language, culture, skills, experience, family dynamic, or that little something

else that makes them unique. From administration to allied health, nursing to cooking, maintenance to leisure and lifestyle, there is a career for everyone at Rural Northwest Health.

Why not stop by our stall at the careers expo and have a chat with our friendly team – who knows, your perfect career could be just a conversation away.

LEADERS: Rural Northwest Health staff, from left, executive manager community services Paula Noble, district nurse team leader Janet Coghill, allied health team leader Abby Powell, chief executive Jenni Masters, acting home support co-ordinator Jason O’Brien, and planned activity group team leader Tony Wagenknecht.

Austin Tyres Stawell Secondary College In the future I would like to work in automotive or as a mechanic.

Jed Warrick Murtoa College I would like to do business marketing at La Trobe in Bendigo, then either work in that field or continue studying to develop my career. I’m going to look for some course information and stuff about the campuses at the expo.