The Weekly Advertiser – Wednesday, November 27, 2024

IMPRESSIVE: World junior scooter champion Taj Shambrook, 16, visited Horsham on Sunday, competing in the Shred Heads Skatepark Comp. The all-ages event featured scoot, BMX and skate competitions.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Consultation plea

BY LAUREN HENRY

Horsham Rural City Council

will lobby the State Government for a three-month extension of community consultation for the Dyurrite Cultural Landscape draft management plan.

At Monday night’s council meeting, the newly sworn-in council moved a motion to request meetings with relevant ministers and about impending access changes at Mount ArapilesTooan State Park.

The council will invite Barengi Gadjin Land Council to meet to discuss the importance of the area to traditional owners, and the future preservation and promotion of cultural heritage.

The council will advocate for a reference group be established represent-

ing a diverse range of users that have strong associations with Mount Arapiles, and that the group work together to oversee the implementation of the amended management plan.

Council also plans to request a State Government-funded economic and social impact assessment of Mount Arapiles, including the number of visitors and professional people who chose to move to the Horsham municipality for rock climbing.

The management plan, made public on Melbourne Cup eve, seeks to protect areas of cultural significance to the Wotjobaluk, Jaadwa, Jadawadjali, Wergaia and Jupagulk Indigenous groups, represented by Barengi Gadjin Land Council.

The park is home to one of Aus-

tralia’s largest stone quarry complexes with rock art and scar trees dating back 3000 years.

But there has been backlash about the amount and types of rock climbing routes planned to be banned, with many in the Natimuk community opposing the plan, believing the changes will cull visitor numbers to the area, resulting in economic losses to the town’s businesses.

The Weekly Advertiser understands that at least two Natimuk-based businesses have announced plans to close –Open Spaces, a 30-year-old business that distributes climbing guide books, posted a statement on its Facebook page saying it would cease trading on December 20.

“Most of you will be familiar with

the increasing access difficulties faced by Victorian recreational users over the past five years,” the statement read.

“These closures and restrictions within many of our best public parks and reserves have adversely affected large numbers of regional businesses, including ours.

“For our wonderful town of Natimuk –home to hundreds of climbers and their families – this is a devastating outcome.

“Natimuk, once a showcase regional success story, has now been condemned to a slow but inevitable death.”

Cr Brian Klowss, representing the Wyn Wyn ward that includes Natimuk, said if approved, the plan would cause

devastation to Natimuk and pain to the wider Wimmera.

“I’ve had long talks with the Natimuk local businesses, most are anticipating a 50 per cent downturn as a minimum,” he said.

“Others such as the climbing shop really don’t know what their future is now.

“The flow-on effects to Horsham and the greater Wimmera communities are massive and potentially unrepairable.”

Cr Klowss listed the various professionals, including many difficultto-attract skilled workers, who were living in Natimuk due to their love of rock climbing.

•Continued page 3.

HRCC NEWS

Cr Ian Ross elected Mayor

New Mayor Ian Ross has pledged to lead a councillor group focussed on delivering for the community as he guides Horsham Rural City Council for the next 12 months.

Cr Ross, representing Pine Lake Ward, was elected to the position at Thursday night’s meeting at the Civic Centre where all Councillors were formally sworn in.

The Telangatuk East farm manager has had long-held associations with community groups including sporting clubs, Apex, the Victorian Farmers Federation, CFA, Kanagulk Landcare and local churches. He spent 13 years as director of the Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority.

The 2024-2028 term will be the first in HRCC’s history to incorporate wards, following a 2023 State Government review. Councillors voted not to elect a Deputy Mayor.

Cr Ross said he would endeavour to make the next year productive and enjoyable for the Councillor group.

“Thank you to my fellow councillors for trusting me with the responsibility of being mayor. After participating in induction programs in recent weeks, I can honestly say that I’m very confident that we’re all here for the right reason – to do the best for the community,” he said in his acceptance speech.

Cr Ross also emphasised the importance of restoring trust and involving residents in the council’s planning and decision-making processes.

“We have a big job to do. We need to restore the community’s trust. That starts by listening and truly involving people in our planning and decision making. Connecting with our outer communities will also be very important.”

“I am very confident that our new council group will work together constructively for the betterment of the community.

“The Wimmera is a great community to be a part of. We have a wonderful opportunity to maintain what is good about our part of the world, while also striving towards making improvements in areas where it’s needed,” he said.

Keep all plastic out of your food and garden organics bin.

Plastic items (like packaging, fruit stickers and plant pots) won’t break down with your food and garden scraps. They are difficult to remove and can contaminate the compost made from your scraps.

Bin liners are not allowed in the green FOGO bin - even if they are labelled compostable or biodegradable.

Kitchen waste can be placed in the bin loose or wrapped in newspaper.

HAVE YOUR SAY

HORSHAM SOUTH STRUCTURE PLAN

Council has released the Draft Horsham South Structure Plan, outlining a comprehensive vision for the coordinated development of the area.

The plan is the culmination of community feedback and technical analysis, aiming to guide future development effectively.

This round of community consultation offers residents a crucial opportunity to provide feedback on the proposed changes.

Council is seeking feedback on the Draft HSSP over a seven-week consultation period, ending on Friday, 13 December 2024.

Various engagement opportunities are available, including:

Webinar: A webinar was held on 31 October. The recording is available on the website. In-person meetings: Book a session Tuesdays or Thursdays during the consultation period.

Community drop-in sessions: Attend sessions at Haven Hall on:

• Wednesday, 20 November 4.30pm to 6.30pm

• Friday, 22 November 12noon to 2pm.

During the consultation period, written feedback can be submitted directly through the online form on the Council’s website or via email at strategic.planning@hrcc.vic.gov.au.

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

TENDERS AND RFQ

HRCC ACTIVE RECREATION AND SPORT STRATEGY

Closes Monday 2 December

AQUATIC CENTRE CHANGE ROOM REFURBISHMENT

Closes Tuesday 17 December

INTEGRATED PLANNING DELIBERATIVE ENGAGEMENT

Closes Thursday 19 December

SMARTWATER UPGRADES AT DUDLEY CORNELL PARK AND LANGLANDS PARK

Closes Friday 13 December

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

Council Meeting: November 21, 2024 - 5.30pm Horsham Rural City Council: 18 Roberts Avenue Horsham |

council@hrcc.vic.gov.au | Web: www.hrcc.vic.gov.au

Rewarding police service, sacrifice

BY LAUREN HENRY

First Constable Claudia Wyatt’s efforts to successfully negotiate with a knifewielding man in Horsham’s CBD earlier this year was recognised among eight divisional police commendation awards presented on Friday.

Const Wyatt said the situation was ‘very confronting’, describing the man, who had an injury to his neck, as threatening suicide in front of the Royal Hotel.

“I just negotiated with him, talked to him, assisted him and eventually convinced him to hand over the knife, and go into the ambulance with us,” Const Wyatt said.

“I treated it like I’m talking to someone who really wants to be heard and who needed our help. I just focused on our conversation, trying to hear him out and listen to him.”

Const Wyatt said it was a huge satisfaction to be able to achieve a successful outcome.

“The last thing we ever want is someone else to be harmed further, especially if we need to take that kind of action,” she said.

“I was very satisfied that we managed to get him into the ambulance with no further injuries, and off to get mental health assistance.”

Const Wyatt, now stationed in Springvale, said she had loved her 18 months in Horsham.

She said after growing up in Gippsland, Horsham was her first regional stint as a police officer.

“I loved it. It’s a fantastic station,” she said.

“I had always worked in metro, and then a squad mate, another police officer, and I, we moved here together. We did 18 months here and couldn’t speak more highly about it.

“I loved the community and loved the station.”

Other police officers to receive divisional commendation awards were First Constable Jeremiah Leonforte, First Constable Ryan Sheehan,

CONGRATULATIONS: Commendation awards and Victoria Police Service Medals were delivered to police officers from across the region at a special service in Horsham on Friday.

Leading Senior Constable Les Power, Sergeant Robert Bartorelli, Constable Amit Kherwar, Constable Saknarin Khongbut, and Constable Thomas Midgley.

Sergeant Michelle Edwards received a regional commendation, and First Constable Amy Stubberfield received the Western Region Division Four Culture Award.

Service medals

Also at the awards ceremony, the following officers received Victoria Police Service Medals: 10-year clasp: Senior Constable Nathan Barfus, Senior Constable Alex Delaney; 15

years, national medal: Senior Sergeant Darren Bull, Sergeant Mat Olsen; 20 years: Sen Const Power, Senior Sergeant Elissa Smith, Sergeant Pete Young; 25 years: Leading Senior Constable Hamish Forbes, Senior Sergeant Cam Ross; 30 years: Detective Senior Sergeant Dave Ellis, Detective Senior Sergeant Peter Robertson; 35 years: Senior Sergeant Brendan Broadbent; 40 years: Leading Senior Constable Jim Richardson; National Medal: Senior Sergeant Eddie Malpas, Inspector Di Thomson; National Police Service Medal: Inspector Caroline Johnson; National Emergency Medal: Sgt Rob Bartorelli and Senior Constable Daniel Brody.

Superintendent Sharon McCrory, western region division four commander, said the hard work and long-standing careers of several police officers were acknowledged at the awards ceremony.

“In a job like this that’s so demanding, it really deserves a special day,” she said.

“Today’s all about recognising and rewarding that service and sacrifice.”

Superintendent McCrory said the commendation awards showed the situations that police officers faced every day while doing their job.

“It does get quite emotional, because sometimes it’s life and death,” she said.

Council, community plea for more consultation

(Continued from page 1)

Cr Klowss said The Climbing Company in Natimuk employed 52 guides, half of who live in Natimuk, and the Natimuk Fire Brigade consisted of about 60 per cent climbers.

“Over the years, the Wimmera community has spent millions trying to attract people to live and work in our community,” he said.

“To have this major attraction taken away is going to leave a massive hole that we may never fill.

“I believe that this plan has been put together with little or no consultation with the local community.

“I also believe that if done right, culturally significant areas and climbing can co-exist without blanket bans.”

Federal Parliament

The Natimuk and district community’s concerns were taken to Federal Parliament on Monday when Member for Mallee Anne Webster called on the Federal Government to explain its position

on cultural heritage matters.

Dr Webster also called for the State Government to genuinely consult with all stakeholders, and ensure all established climbing routes at Mount Arapiles remained in force until such consultation occurred.

“I share the community’s outrage at the Mount Arapiles decision, particularly for Natimuk where enjoyment and awe of the mountain has been a major driver of the local economy,” she said.

“Rock climbers and other Australians respect indigenous heritage and sentiments – and the need to conserve the local environment. Locking Australians out of enjoying natural landscapes only fosters further division and alienation.”

Liberal Senators Jacinta Nampijinpa Price and Jonathon Duniam put forward a motion in the Federal Senate on Monday for a Senate Inquiry to be established to look into cultural heritage laws that are ‘blocking development and locking up our country on the basis

of race’.

The motion listed the rock climbing bans at Mount Arapiles and Grampians National Park as particular points of reference.

However the motion failed, with the Senate voting against, 25-29.

Premier responds

At a press conference in Horsham last week, journalists quizzed Premier Jacinta Allan about the plan to ban more than 50 per cent of the climbing routes at Mount Arapiles, and what support would be put in place for Natimuk.

“There is a consultation process underway right now and we do want to hear from the local community because I have already heard some of the concerns and issues that have been raised and I know the Environment Minister (Steve Dimopoulos) has heard those directly,” Ms Allan said.

“He came to Natimuk, he met with local residents, businesses and council representatives and will continue to

listen to the local community.

“Just too, as we have also through Parks Victoria, been listening to the traditional owner groups as well because we do need to have an outcome that is about providing certainty for rock climbers to continue to enjoy the beautiful landscape, the unique landscape that we have here in this region.

“Certainty around how cultural heritage is going to be recognised, but also too, in terms of the investments for the local community, the minister has already made an announcement of $1.7million that’s going to go into investment in upgrading outdoor recreation facilities, tourism access facilities.”

Ms Allan said the government was consulting with ‘a broad range of stakeholders’, and she encouraged submissions through the engage.vic.gov. au website.

• Letters, page 11.

Climber death at Arapiles

Police will prepare a report for the Coroner after a woman, 69, died while rock climbing at Mount Arapiles on Tuesday last week.

The rock climber fell about eight metres from the final section of the climb known as Eskimo Nell at about 3.30pm. Fellow climbers reached the woman first, before emergency services arrived at the Centenary Park Access Track at about 4pm.

The woman has been identified as Lee Lee Heah, a barrister from Christchurch, New Zealand.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

TRUCKIN’ GOOD: A range of attractions featured at a major road safety event at Nhill Trailer Exchange, which began yesterday and continues today, 4pm to 11pm. Heavy vehicle drivers and operators across a range of industries began attending the event, hosted by Horsham and Hindmarsh councils in partnership with several transport industry groups, Victoria Police and the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator. Activities include speakers on safety aspects of the transport industry, along with hands-on demonstrations. Pictured is Mike Wood, Latus Logistics; Des Smith, Nhill SES; Will Neville, Worksafe; Hindmarsh Mayor Ron Ismay; John Martin Horsham Rural City Council; acting Senior Sergeant Shaun Allen; Arshay Rajput, HRCC; and Joe Scimone, Hindmarsh Shire.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Firefighters to help with cardiac arrest responses

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Country Fire Authority volunteers across Victoria are training with Ambulance Victoria to help respond to cardiac arrests.

The first nine of the 50 brigades earmarked in the rollout of the Fire Medical Response, FMR, program, will commence before the end of this month, with all 50 to complete training by April 2026.

Horsham, Stawell and Ararat will be among 11 brigades in the second roll-out, following the first volunteers at Euroa, Tatura, Numurkah, Yarrawonga, Lakes Entrance, Orbost, Bairnsdale, Huntly and Kyneton.

Metropolitan Fire Brigade members have been part of the medical response program since 2001, responding to a small number of ‘priority zero’ cases and arriving before paramedics about 50 per cent of the time.

CFA started a pilot program with volunteers in 2008 and career firefighters in 2011, and its success and additional funding has seen it roll out across the state.

Horsham Urban Fire Brigade volunteers who have nominated for the program will begin training in March next year.

Brigade captain Marc Ampt said the program was met with a great response from members.

“We had 29 people register to train when the program was presented to us – the largest volunteer brigade response for the program at the time,” he said.

The first responders will train across several weeks with Ambulance Victoria,

ensuring they are prepared for a different level of community service.

“Community members who call for an ambulance may receive both a fire vehicle and an ambulance – there is no specific order in which they may arrive,” Mr Ampt said.

“If our crews arrive first and start providing care, that could make all the difference for someone’s survival chances.

“We know this program will improve survival rates for people across the Horsham area.”

CFA has more than 1100 volunteer fire stations and more than 52,000 members, bolstering Ambulance Victoria’s life-saving efforts to communities across the state.

Ambulance Victoria acting director operational capability Trevor Weston said it was ‘fantastic’ to have extra assistance for people experiencing cardiac arrests.

“We’re extremely grateful that CFA is working with us on this – from the reports I’m getting there’s no shortage of volunteers wanting to put their hand up and be part of this program,” he said.

“We’ve seen our cardiac-arrest survival rates in recent years continue to improve to some of the best in the world.

“The impact Fire Rescue Victoria and CFA has with this program, particularly in metropolitan Melbourne, contributes significantly to that. Having another 50 CFA brigades at the end of this program across the state is only going to be exceptional.”

Mr Weston said Ambulance Victoria responded to about 21 cardiac arrest calls each day.

“The selected brigades are in the areas where we know there’s opportunity for improving cardiac arrest survival, where there’s opportunity for CFA to play a part to support ambulance,” he said.

“We know that with each minute CPR and defibrillation is delayed, your chance of survival drops by about 10 per cent.

“We already have public access defibrillators, GoodSAM responders, ambulance community officers, and we now have FMR in these sorts of more regional areas that will start to make a difference in the outcomes that we see.”

Mr Weston said if a fire medical response crew arrived at a scene first, paramedics would work alongside them.

“We’ll let them continue rotating through CPR, which will allow our paramedics to start to deliver advanced care, such as advanced airway management, medications and things like that, which will help the patient’s survival,” he said.

Firefighters’ wellbeing is also a focus of the program, which has been developed by CFA and Ambulance Victoria experts, including clinical psychologists.

“Given that crews will be responding to people in their communities, the chances of responding to someone they know is increased,” Mr Weston said.

“The training includes a focus of psychosocial wellbeing and psychological safety to care for our responders too.”

Mr Weston said the original medical response program has saved the lives of hundreds of people across more than 20 years.

New Victorian Nationals leader

Danny O’Brien has been elected unopposed as leader of the Victorian Nationals after Peter Walsh stepped down yesterday.

Member for Lowan Emma Kealy will continue as deputy leader.

Mr Walsh will remain the Member for Murray Plains.

Having started in politics in 2002, Mr Walsh served as a minister in the Baillieu and Napthine Coalition governments, and has been leader of the Victorian Nationals since 2014.

Mr O’Brien, Member for Gippsland South, has most recently held the shadow portfolios of roads and road safety, and casino, gaming and liquor regulation.

“For over 100 years, The Nationals have served the interests of rural and regional Victoria. That will not change,” he said.

“It remains our singular focus as the only party solely dedicated to serving the interests of the 25 per cent of the population who live outside the metropolitan area.

“I entered politics because I have always believed rural and regional people get a raw deal. As leader of our great party, I will fight every day for country people to get a fair go.

“We have an excellent team of local champions who fight every day for their electorates from Mildura to Mallacoota.

“I look forward to working with Emma and the rest of the team to continue serving the people of rural and regional Victoria.”

Ms Kealy said she was looking forward to continuing her role in fighting for regional Victorians.

“The Nationals have a formidable team of community champions in Parliament and every day we stand side-by-side with our community to ensure they’re voice is heard,” she said.

“I look forward to continuing my role in leadership, working with Danny, our MPs and all our members and supporters who are fighting together for a fair deal for regional Victorians.”

National leader of The Nationals David Littleproud thanked Mr Walsh, and said he had left a legacy to be proud of, including expanding the Victorian Nationals party room to the best result since the 1940s.

This Black Friday and Cyber Monday, as your inbox and social media bombard you with enticing offers for your hard-earned money, take a moment to think.

The reality is, with the rising cost of living and interest rates staying high, the decisions you make about where to spend your dollars will have a lasting impact on our local communities.

When you choose to buy from a local business, you’re not only supporting jobs but also strengthening the economy and contributing to the vitality of your community. Local businesses are the ones that step up to support our clubs, schools, hospitals, charities, and events.

So, please – think before you shop, and choose to buy local!

Brendan O’Loughlin General Manager – 3WM, Mixx FM and The Weekly

SEC to soak up the sun Equine first-aid course

BY LAUREN HENRY

The State Electricity Commission, SEC, will invest $370 million into a large-scale solar and battery facility opposite Horsham’s power station, set to be operational by late 2027.

Premier Jacinta Allan and Minister for the State Electricity Commission Lily D’Ambrosio visited Horsham on Wednesday last week, joined by SEC representatives and staff from developer OX2, who will build the park.

A handful of landowners who will lease their land to the SEC were also present at the official opening.

The SEC Renewable Energy Park, on Riverside East Road, will be the first 100 per cent government-owned energy generator in Victoria since the SEC was privatised.

The park will be capable of generating about 242,000 megawatt hours of renewable energy a year – enough to power 51,000 homes.

More than 212,000 solar panels will be used to generate 119-megawatts of electricity, and sit alongside a 100-megawatt two-hour battery, which will allow more renewable generation to come online by storing power until it is ready to be fed into the grid during high demand.

Ms Allan said 246 jobs would be created during construction, including 20 apprentices, trainees and cadets.

“We’re building our future with the SEC – creating jobs, reducing bills and delivering reliable renewable energy across the state,” she said.

“Bringing back the State Electricity Commission is all about giving power and profit back to the people.

“It’s the second project, the second investment, in just a short time that the SEC has been re-established, the SEC has been able to lock it in and it’s an absolute cracking project.

“It’s a massive project and it’s going to make a big contribution to the renewable energy generation here in our state.

“This is a big moment, a big moment for the generation of renewable energy in our state, but also a big moment in terms

Horsham and District Equestrian Sports Club, HDESC, is offering horse first-aid and emergency-management clinics to horse owners, following the success of a previous clinic and the limited access horse owners have to veterinarians.

Renowned international equine veterinarian Dr Lizzie McCready will teach horse owners the basics of first aid and emergency management in a clinic at Horsham this weekend.

Event organiser and clinic participant Deidre Rennick said she found value in learning how to properly perform a complete basic health assessment, having to attend to her horse that had gone through a fence soon after attending the previous clinic.

“I was able to monitor the horse’s condition and make a sound decision about whether to take him to a vet, more than two hours away,” she said.

Clinic participants will learn bandaging, poulticing and administering medications, including intramuscular injections, and will also receive a first-aid kit valued at $100.

A level-one clinic for new participants will be on Saturday, and an advanced level-two clinic on Sunday. Level-one costs $275, including a first-aid kit valued at $100, and level-two is $210, or $485 for both days. For more information, people can contact Ms Rennick at hdesc.secretary@gmail.com.

of putting power back into the hands of the Victorian community.”

Ms Allan said the Horsham community would directly benefit from the profits, with the SEC to set up a community benefits fund, investing $42,000 a year back into the local area during the project’s construction, and a further $70,000 every year once the project was operational.

Community information sessions, at Horsham Town Hall on December 5, will outline the grants.

First of its kind

Ms D’Ambrosio said the Horsham park was the first 100 per cent government-owned renewable energy project under construction in Australia.

“The SEC has made this investment decision based on a 30-year span of asset life,” she said.

‘There has been processes where the community has been engaged already, going back to 2018, when the planning process was well and truly underway for the development of this site for the purposes of renewable energy.

“The SEC is absolutely committed to having community engagement and support at the heart of everything that it does.”

Despite not being invited to the official opening, Horsham Rural City Council representatives welcomed the project.

Horsham Mayor Ian Ross

said the project positioned Horsham as a key player in Victoria’s clean-energy landscape.

“We welcome the State Government’s decision to build this landmark renewable energy park in our city. It’s a significant step towards a sustainable future for Horsham and Victoria,” he said.

“Previously, HRCC worked with private developer OX2 on planning approvals when the project was known as the Horsham Solar Farm.

“The original scope was granted planning approval in 2018, with no objections from our local community.

“The project has now increased in capability and will now generate around 242,000 megawatt hours of renewable energy a year. That’s enough to power a city three times the size of Horsham. Importantly, there is no significant increase in the site’s footprint.

“With the project’s expansion and transfer of ownership to the Victorian Government, HRCC has been working on the necessary final approval plans and strategies to ensure our local community shares in the project’s benefits.”

But Member for Lowan Emma Kealy warned that Victorians would pay the price for the solar farm.

“All of this is just going to push up energy costs for every Victorian because every single time there are new power lines built, you all know that ends up

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

SOAKING UP OUR SUN: OX2 chief executive Paul Stormoen, OX2 country manager Rachel Watson, SEC chair Simon Corbell, Premier Jacinta Allan, landowner June Liddy, SEC Minister Lily D’Ambrosio, landowner Shane Woodhart, SEC chief executive Chris Miller and landowner Darren Woodhart at the sod-turning of SEC Renewable Energy Park in Horsham.

on your power bill,” she said.

“And for our region, we want to know why we have to tradeoff prime agricultural land, and get nothing in return.”

Construction will begin in the next month, with the first supply of electricity to the grid to occur in mid-2026.

OX2, a European renewable energy company, sold the solar farm portion of the park to the SEC in September.

“This is OX2’s first project to reach construction in Australia,” OX2’s global chief executive Paul Stormoen said.

“We will manage the construction on behalf of the SEC and I’m proud to say that OX2 has high ambitions and a very strong 20-plus year track record when it comes to health and safety, and being a good neighbour to the community.

“We look forward to working with suppliers and local contractors who share these values.”

SEC chief executive Chris Miller said the site was selected for its flat topography and close proximity to the Horsham power station, which the park would connect to via an underground cable.

“It’s gone through the full planning process and it’s received planning permits. Through the course of that planning process, actually, there were no objections or issues raised by local community members,” he said.

• Editorial, page 11.

Fundraiser for sea camp experience

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Araratleaders are imploring the community to rally behind a first-of-itskind initiative to send grade five students from the town to Queenscliff’s Cottage by the Sea each year.

Cottage by the Sea is a charity that aims to foster positive, life-changing experiences for children from disadvantaged backgrounds.

The charity was founded in the 1890s and now offers children a range of learning and recreational opportunities including surfing lessons, wildlife encounters, fishing excursions and trips to a marine learning centre.

Ararat-region businessman Richard de Fegely has worked with Ararat Rural City Council to arrange Cottage by the Sea trips for students from Ararat North Primary School from December 9 to 13, and Pomonal Primary School in March next year.

At next week’s Greater Ararat Business Network, GABN, Business After Dark event at Ararat Turf Club, Mr de Fegely said he hoped to encourage business leaders to contribute to a $30,000 target supporting the Ararat North Primary School students’ visit.

But he said he also wanted to turn the visit into an annual program open to all Ararat students.

“To make it an ongoing thing, we came up with the idea that if we funded it locally we could do it annually rather than relying on outside sources. It’s just grown from there,” Mr de Fegely said.

Cottage by the Sea chief executive Adam Wake described Mr de Fegely’s initiative as a ‘fantastic’ idea.

“I’m very confident that with the help of Richard and the committee he’s put together up in the Ararat area, we’ll be able to get this happening every single year, which is absolutely

wonderful. A fundraiser has never been done in this volume before, where a community itself tries to raise money to send children for a lifechanging experience,” he said.

Mr Wake said children from many backgrounds could benefit from an experience at Cottage by the Sea, with the area recording high levels of socio-economic disadvantage.

“The Victorian Council of Social Services reported this year that there are 216,000 children living in poverty in Victoria alone. That’s an awful statistic, and it means there are children who need this amazing experience in the Ararat area. In some cases with kids from rural Victoria, some of the contingent of children who come to us have never seen the ocean,” he said.

Mr Wake said Deakin University produced a 76-page report outlining the lasting benefits of the Cottage by the Sea program.

“They spoke to alumni including a 94-yearold who stayed with us in 1939 and he said it changed his life,” he said.

Mr Wake said the program catered not only to children from socially disadvantaged backgrounds, but those who had lived through traumatic experiences. He said students from the fire-affected Pomonal community would also benefit from their visit in March.

“A community initiative like this has never been done before where it becomes an annual thing. It’s incredible, and if it does get off the ground – wow,” he said.

“What a community to get behind their year five kids like this. It will make a difference in their lives.”

People can find more information at www.cottagebythesea.com.au

People can contact Mr de Fegely for more information by calling 0439 323 360 or emailing richdefegely@gmail.com

CHRISTMAS CLEAN-UPS!

Revving up for Christmas joy

Organisers of Salvation Army’s motorcycle toy run are gearing up for the revived annual event, which will see riders travel from Natimuk to Horsham to collect toys, food and cash for those in need in the lead-up to Christmas.

Salvation Army captain Tracy Sutton said the ride was the first post-COVID restricted community activities.

“I think 2019 was the last time we had a motorbike toy run, so it’s good to be doing it again,” Mrs Sutton said.

“The cash and donations we receive all go to our Christmas appeal, which we will give to those who need the support most.”

People from Horsham and surrounding towns have benefitted from the campaign in the past.

“If people would like to make monetary donations, they can come into our Horsham office in Kalkee Road and donate there.

“They can drop toys off at the back of Horsham Plaza, where the ride will finish at about 11am on December 1.”

People are welcome to join in the run – riders will meet at Natimuk at 9.30am opposite the hotel, before travelling to Horsham via Lower Norton.

A static motorcycle show and barbecue will follow at the plaza.

“We are just really appreciative to people for donating – it goes a long way and makes a big difference,” Mrs Sutton said.

READY FOR RUN: Horsham Salvation Army housing case managers Renae Hemley and Jaimie Clarkson and captain Tracy Sutton get ready for the annual toy run.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

SUNDAY 10th DECEMBER 2023

Pre Carols Entertainment from 6pm, Main Event 7:30pm in conjunction with the ACE RADIO NETWORK proudly presents

Pre Carols Entertainment from 6pm, Main Event 7:30pm in conjunction with the ACE RADIO NETWORK proudly presents

SUNDAY 10th DECEMBER 2023

SUNDAY 10th DECEMBER 2023

SAWYER PARK HORSHAM

SAWYER PARK HORSHAM

SAWYER PARK HORSHAM

Pre Carols Entertainment from 6pm, Main Event 7:30pm in conjunction with the ACE RADIO NETWORK proudly presents

BOWERS CHIROPRACTIC CENTRE

not completely correct. As teenagers grow so rapidly their muscles and ligaments have trouble keeping up and the rapidly growing joint puts pressure on these areas causing pain. Also, a very real issue is that areas are out of alignment or have been jammed up for awhile. Whilst teenagers have been growing slowly it’s not so noticeable, however with sudden growth spurts it highlights a hidden problem. This is what a parent doesn’t want to miss, because it can set teenagers up for ongoing issues that can be dismissed as simple growing pains.

A chiropractor can also see a teenager with bilateral knee pain and heading for surgery for that knee that keeps dislocating, discovers that they have a sacral problem which is undiagnosed, because it’s knee pain. The sacrum is often thought as a solid tail bone. Well in young children it is five individual bones which don’t start to join to form one bone until they are around 13yrs of age. Each one can misalign or jam up

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.

Pauline Walsh

Arapiles concerns

I am saddened to think that an iconic mountain, tourist spot, climbing mecca, something that is essential to keeping the small community of Natimuk vibrant and alive is likely to be closed, or parts thereof, for everyone to enjoy.

As someone born at Natimuk, growing up with the view of Arapiles, when I do get the chance to return, the view of the Mount is like a home coming.

So in my eyes I could say it is my spiritual home.

We are creating more problems with all the divisions being created, Arapiles yes has definitely got cultural significance, I’m all for recognition and preservation.

She, as I’ve always referred to her, has significance to many others and when you take into account the various cultures and countries the climbing community has brought to the area, plus every day run-of-the-mill people.

Weren’t we shut down enough during COVID? Haven’t we learnt we are lucky to be able to travel again and experience all that Australia has to offer? Shutting down tourist spots, ruining small communities who have kept themselves alive as the world changes.

This will not just affect Natimuk, there is always a ripple effect.

Kim Gibson, Nhill

A proud, working history

In response to Jordan Crook’s letter to The Weekly Advertiser on November 20, 2024, it is clear that Mr Crook is unfamiliar with the proud history of environmental stewardship that rock climbers at Arapiles/ Dyurrite have demonstrated over the past 40 years.

Geoff Durham from the Victorian National Parks Association, VNPA, the same organisation that Jordan Crook now campaigns for, visited Arapiles/ Dyurrite in the late 1980s and proposed that Natimuk climbers start up a Friends group to be part of Victorian Environment Friends Network, VEFN.

We took up his suggestion with enthusiasm,

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

and thus Friends of Arapiles was born.

Since that day, Friends of Arapiles have undertaken thousands of days of volunteer labour, growing trees from local seed, planting, watering, weeding and guarding them.

Students on rock climbing trips to Arapiles/ Dyurrite have frequently assisted Friends volunteers to remove scotch thistle, hoarhound, bindii and tree tobacco.

We have exterminated feral bees from their hives in the rock crevices and tree hollows to enable native birds to utilise them instead.

One of our efforts was published in the Friends Network magazine, depicting rock climbers abseiling down a cliff wearing a full bee suit in order to treat a feral bee hive.

For decades, we have carried out extensive stone step-building and track rerouting to prevent erosion in sensitive gullies.

Engaging a professional stone mason, with additional help from the Victorian Climbing Club’s CliffCare and state government grants, and thousands of hours of rock-hauling by volunteers, Friends of Arapiles has consistently laboured to improve the Arapiles/ Dyurrite environment.

Mr Crook claims that rock climbers and walkers at Arapiles/ Dyurrite have degraded the local habitat for species such as the peregrine falcon.

This is gratuitously false.

For the past 40 years, there has been a stable number of three pairs of breeding peregrine falcons dispersed across the cliff faces of Arapiles/ Dyurrite.

Climbers avoid peregrine nesting sites and peregrines ignore climbers and get on with the job of raising the next generation of chicks.

Mr Crook also asserts that climbers have damaged cultural sites of first nations peoples. He offers no evidence for this egregious claim.

On the contrary, climbers have assisted archaeologists to catalogue and protect cultural heritage.

In 1992, Andrew Long, archaeologist and climber, noticed an extensive indigenous quarry site near the top of one of the most popular climbing areas at Arapiles/ Dyurrite.

Despite three decades of climbing activity

Premier’s visit perfectly staged

Horsham

Rural City Council representatives weren’t invited. Member for Lowan Emma Kealy wasn’t invited. Very few members of the community were invited.

But here we were in a paddock on the outskirts of Horsham on a warm midweek morning, full of dry ryegrass, a large marquee with shiny posters of impending plans, and two strategically-placed excavators with shovels – just waiting for their photo opportunity.

Premier Jacinta Allan’s quick visit to Horsham on Wednesday last week was perfectly stagemanaged, and seemingly shrouded in a bit of secrecy.

A new $370-million solar and battery plant – the second project by the re-born governmentowned energy generator, the State Electricity Company, SEC – is set to be located opposite the Horsham power station on Riverside East Road. There were more people wearing suits in that paddock than there probably was in the whole of Horsham that day.

Representatives from the government, the SEC, and OX2 – the European developer who will build the renewable energy park – crowded around as we counted on two hands the people from Horsham.

One hand was the local landowners who were leasing their land to the SEC and the other hand was local media representatives.

Before we had even driven to the gate, we were flagged down by a nearby resident who was angry she had no knowledge of the event and that nobody from council was there.

As we drove to the gate, security took our names to make sure we were allowed in.

nearby, the heritage site was intact, with no evidence of damage from climbers. Two local indigenous elders took part in the study.

I was one of three climbers on site to ensure everyone’s safety on the narrow ledge 150 metres above the ground.

One of the indigenous elders was Alan Burns, who was the Wimmera cultural heritage protection officer from 1988 to 2007.

As recently as 2022, climbers from the Gariwerd Wimmera Reconciliation Network engaged with Barengi Gadjin Land Council, Parks Victoria, and archaeologists to reopen a climbing area in the Grampians previously closed for cultural heritage reasons.

This successful negotiation should have been the template for a similar fine-grained approach to all of climbing routes at Arapiles/Dyurrite.

Instead, Parks Victoria abrogated their responsibilities to engage with local communities despite their obligation to do so under IUCN best practice guidelines for protected areas.

Climbers overwhelmingly celebrate the natural and cultural heritage at Arapiles/ Dyurrite.

We have enjoyed mutually respectful and harmonious relationships with first nations people.

We have cared for the natural environment, worked hard to improve it, and engaged with the next generation to help us give back to the park.

Mr Crook is right about one thing. He notes that our state and national parks are part of our shared living heritage.

The way the draft management plan for Arapiles/ Dyurrite stands now, this is not a shared space for all Australians, this is a shameful and divisive document that was rushed out by Parks Victoria with no community engagement whatsoever.

Louise Shepherd, Friends of Arapiles/Dyurrite Natimuk

Blood Bank blessing

How wonderful it is that the Red Cross took it upon themselves – maybe cajoled – to bring back a local blood donation centre in the form of a mobile donor centre bus to Ararat. It was obviously badly needed due to the fact

EDITORIAL

By Lauren Henry

It was like no other visit by a Victorian premier in the past 30 years.

In the past, despite the dignitaries and formalities often involved, premiers have taken their trips to the Wimmera pretty casually.

But this was different.

The Premier and ministers are acutely aware of the level of opposition to many projects and plans in the region.

Whether it is transmission lines, mineral sand mines or plans to ban most of the rock climbing at Mount Arapiles, the level of opposition is strong. And growing.

I assume that is the exact reason why the Premier’s visit was kept on the down-low.

During a press conference, Ms Allan faced questions from local media about mineral sand mine projects and the effect the climbing bans at Mount Arapiles would have on Natimuk, and the region.

But I would have traded in all the question time for the Premier to take the time to meet personally with Natimuk residents and landowners affected by mineral sand mine projects and directly hear their concerns.

The government’s version of consultation leaves a lot to be desired.

It really is the least that our people – voters, tax-payers, and carers of our land – deserve in the respective processes.

that it was booked out quickly.

After many years of ‘donor desert’ in the Wimmera district the Red Cross is finally coming to terms with, I feel, their mistake of abandoning all of the previous small donor locations throughout the area where all the local donors could easily access every three months to donate blood. Instead, some years ago, the Red Cross made the bewildering decision to relocate the donor locations to Horsham, Bendigo and Ballarat. I was a regular donor until this time and I am sure that I am not the only one to have not donated since that time.

Then, and I can only assume it is because they were losing donors, they started spending unnecessary amounts of money on advertising for donors when they had them in their hands, so to speak, at all the small donor locations.

I guess their decision was a business decision but for the life of me the hospitals are screaming out for blood so why reduce the supply via a ludicrous business arrangement.

I am confused and dismayed by the decisions the Blood Bank have made and I implore them to once again make it easy for the donors to give blood.

Murray McGaffin, Deep Lead

Congratulations Nhill

We have such good stage talent here in Nhill and as I was one of the happy crowd who attended a Friday night performance of The Emperor’s New Clothes by Philippa Smith. I was most impressed not only with the lighting, singing, sets and costumes, but the fantastic professional performance this group of people gave to the audience.

Lots of laughs with their script and for a small country town theatre that was filled with lots of happy, supportive people, this is so good for our town.

Congratulations to the Nhill Piggery Lane Players. Well done!

Helen Woodhouse-Herrick, Nhill

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SEC Renewable Energy Park Horsham

Community information session

Thursday 5 December

The SEC is delivering a 100% publicly owned renewable energy project right here in Horsham.

The SEC Renewable Energy Park is an integrated solar and battery project to be built in two stages.

The SEC would like to work with the Horsham community throughout the development process, starting with hearing your views on our construction timeline and discussing how the project can deliver significant benefits to the local region.

We’re holding community drop-in sessions to talk about:

• construction process and timeline

• local suppliers, jobs and apprenticeships

• community benefits sharing – including $42,000 per year during construction and $70,000 per year once operational.

Horsham Town Hall

Thursday 5 December

Drop in between 11am - 3.30pm or 5 - 7.30pm

If you have questions but can’t attend a session: Call 1300 305 700 Email info.SEC@secvictoria.com.au

New world opens up

Italian exchange student Gianmaria Zarantonello will return home from his fourmonth Australian stay this weekend with a breadth of new experiences and a new take on the English language.

Gian, 16, from Cornedo, between Venice and Milan, stayed in Horsham with Brendan and Vanessa O’Loughlin and their two sons, Riley and Finn. He attended school at St Brigid’s College, tried local sports, and travelled parts of the country, including Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, and the Great Ocean Road.

“I really enjoyed Sydney, I think it’s a very beautiful city. We went with a ferry to see the port part, but the most beautiful part for me was from the ferry to see the harbour bridge and the opera house, it was very beautiful,” Gian said.

Apart from missing his family and friends, Gian missed some of his home foods, like pastas.

“I’ve missed our type of pizza, and it’s pretty strange for me to say it, but I actually miss the salads, because we do them in a little different way,” he said.

“The pizza is different too – you put many more ingredients on top, and our pizza is a little larger, and the dough is thinner, and the ingredients on top are less.

“There’s some ingredients that you use that we don’t really think they belong on pizzas – like pineapple, so that’s the most one, but barbecue sauce on pizza is even worse.”

Having learned English from his first year at school, Gian came to Australia for a cultural experience, and to improve his language skills.

Once he developed an ear for the Australian accent, he had to learn to decipher the unique turns of phrase.

“The first time I was in school with the principal, he told me that we were going to have a lesson or something ‘tonight’. I thought, ‘what, like at 8pm?’ then I understood that actually tonight for people here is after like after school,” he said.

The Australian school system differs to that of Italy where classes begin at 8am and end at 1.35pm.

“I am always a little tired in the morning. And also, we don’t have lunch at school, but we don’t have the time to be with our mates during lunch. The actual hours of school are the same, but here you stay more with your mates, which is something good,” Gian said.

“I have more subjects at home – here I’m doing maths, physics, chemistry, biology, and English. In Italy, I’m also doing history, history of art, Italian literature, English as a second language.” Gian has enjoyed getting to know St Brigid’s 200-strong student body, a contrast to his home school of about 2000 students.

He has continued practicing mixed martial arts, and has tried football and cricket.

“I haven’t played any games, but they made me try to kick a footy. I think I’m not that bad at footy, I still have to work on my cricket,” he said. Another new concept for Gian has been house pets – he has none at home, but learnt how to live with a dog and cat at the O’Loughlin household.

“You have to feed them and then they bark because they’re want to get outside, and when they are outside, they bark so they’ll get back inside,” he said.

“It’s also good that they let you pat them and they cuddle and look at you, I enjoy that. I’m not saying that I’m going to buy a dog when I go back home, but it’s a nice difference.”

GET THE POWER OF PROFLEET

Gianmaria Zarantonello

SWORN IN: Horsham Rural City councillors, back from left, Dean O’Loughlin, Cameron McDonald, Angela Munn and Rebecca Sluggett, and front, Brian Klowss, Mayor Ian Ross, and Todd Wilson.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Ross new mayor

BY LAUREN HENRY

New Horsham Rural City Council Mayor Ian Ross has vowed to lead an ‘effective and functional council’ with genuine community consultation to restore the community’s trust.

Cr Ross was officially elected mayor at a statutory meeting on Thursday last week, where all councillors were sworn into their roles.

Cr Ross, representing Pine Lake Ward, was the only incumbent councillor re-elected.

The Telangatuk East farm manager has had long-held associations with community groups including sporting clubs, Apex, the Victorian Farmers Federation, CFA, Kanagulk Landcare and local churches.

He was also a director of the Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority for 13 years.

“I’m very confident we’re all here for the right reason,” Cr Ross told the meeting.

“I believe we’ll be a very effective and functional council, and will be 100 per cent focused on delivering the best we can for this municipality.”

But Cr Ross admitted the council had a ‘big job to do’, following a year of controversies for the council, with the previous council plagued by in-fighting, a delayed approval of the Budget, the appointment of a municipal monitor and the resignation of former chief executive Sunil Bhalla.

“We have some work to do to turn the ship around a little bit with our satisfaction surveys, and we need to restore the community’s trust –that’s so important,” Cr Ross said.

“And that’s done by truly listening to people,

Northern Grampians Shire Council election

Declaration of results

and truly involving people in the planning and decision-making.”

Cr Ross said the Wimmera was a great community to be a part of.

“We have a wonderful opportunity to maintain what is good in our part of the world, while also striving towards making improvements in areas where it’s needed,” he said.

“I look forward to continuing to work with our community, our interim CEO Craig Neiman, staff, and our partners of state and federal government, ensuring that we have a strong, futurefriendly municipality.”

Councillors voted not to elect a deputy mayor, and all congratulated Cr Ross.

Cr Angela Munn said she was confident Cr Ross’ appointment to mayor would be well received by the wider community.

“Councillor Ross has already walked the path on which we’ve just stepped and he’s done so with honesty, integrity, diligence and wisdom,” she said.

“I’m sure that Councillor Ross will lead and guide us and our whole municipality extremely well in the coming year using those very same qualities and their attributes.”

Cr Cam McDonald congratulated both Cr Ross and his wife Kathy on the appointment.

“In my opinion, you are the model statesman, you know, thorough gentleman,” he said.

“We’ve all watched you in the last four years conduct yourself in a very professional manner, and you’ve demonstrated your strength and have a lot of candour in your deliberations – and for that I applaud you.”

The following candidates were elected to Northern Grampians Shire Council at the general election held in October 2024:

Central Ward

HYSLOP, Karen (1st elected)

GREENBERGER, Jenny (2nd elected)

Grampians Ward

HIDE, Justine (1st elected)

BLAKE, Jack (2nd elected)

Kara Kara Ward

PROBST, Karen (1st elected)

EMERSON, Murray (2nd elected)

MIXX FM, 3WM and The Weekly Advertiser are excited to announce five one-day shopping sprees between now and Christmas.

Shop to win one of ten $250 vouchers to spend locally! Warracknabeal

Friday, September 6, 2024

Friday, September 20, 2024

Friday, November 8, 2024

Friday, November 22, 2024

Friday, December 6, 2024

FESTIVE: ACE Radio Horsham hosted its annual Christmas party for clients on Thursday evening. The event also featured Wimmera Health Care Group Foundation’s duck race, which raised more than $30,000 for the charity. Pictured are, clockwise from

and

Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

left: Wes and Gina Davidson and Nicole and Jock Uebergang; Wade

Lynette Morrow, Jodie and Gavin Morrow; Alicia Ryan and Allison Roberts; Anthony Op De Coul, David Johns and Judy Paterson; Sophie Koschmann and Amy Iredell; Amy Lehmann and Jessica Warrick.

HORSHAM

Friday, November 29 – BLACK FRIDAY 9am to 9pm

Saturday, November 30 9am to 5pm

Sunday, December 1 9am to 5pm

Monday, December 2 9am to 7pm

Tuesday, December 3 9am to 7pm

Wednesday, December 4 9am to 7pm

Thursday, December 5 9am to 9pm

Friday, December 6 9am to 9pm

Saturday, December 7 8am to 6pm

Sunday, December 8 9am to 5pm

Monday, December 9 9am to 9pm

Tuesday, December 10 9am to 9pm

Wednesday, December 11 9am to 9pm

Thursday, December 12 8am to 9pm

Friday, December 13 8am to 9pm

Saturday, December 14 8am to 8pm

Sunday, December 15 8am to 8pm

Monday, December 16 8am to 9pm

Tuesday, December 17 8am to 9pm

Wednesday, December 18 8am to 9pm

Thursday, December 19 8am to 9pm

Friday, December 20 8am to 9pm

Saturday, December 21 8am to 9pm

Sunday, December 22 8am to 9pm

Monday, December 23 9am to 9pm

Tuesday, December 24

CHRISTMAS EVE 8am to 6pm

Wednesday, December 25 CHRISTMAS DAY CLOSED

Thursday, December 26

BOXING DAY 8am to 9pm

Wednesday, January 1

NEW YEARʼS DAY 10am to 5pm

Sunday, January 26

AUSTRALIA DAY 10am to 5pm

Extended h rs f y r c venience

Firebrace Street, Horsham Call 5382 2004 to secure your tickets sunday 1st

Grab a group of friends or come by yourself & enjoy a relaxed afternoon in the garden First drink free (beer, wine or cocktail of the day)

1pm-5pm Kitchen open 12-2.30

Dalki Garringa = Good Growing in Wergaia Language

BGLC’s Native Nursery + Coffee Van is now open every Friday. Discover native trees and shrubs of the Wotjobaluk Nations and share in our knowledge.

9am - 3pm | 127 Wail Road, Wail

Closed due to construction – re-opening soon

by Jeff Woodward

Dalki Garringa Native Nursery is 100% owned and operated by Barengi Gadjin Land Council. www.bglc.com.au

Fundraising ride nearing pinnacle

The Tour de Cure’s Vic Discovery Tour bike ride that began in Halls Gap last week has raised more than $400,000 for cancer research and support, with donations towards a $500,000 goal still open.

The Vic Discovery Tour is an annual ride in which members fundraise to support the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute as well as other cancer research, treatment and support services.

The first stage of this year’s tour was from Halls Gap to Ararat on Monday last week, with riders progressing from Ararat to Ballarat on Tuesday before finishing in Melbourne on Wednesday – a total of more than 380 kilometres.

More than 100 riders signed up for the event, supported by 17 crew and volunteers, and eight Tour de Cure staff.

Riders were able to sign up individually or in teams and were encouraged to seek sponsorship towards the tour’s $500,000 fundraising goal.

As of yesterday afternoon, the total raised was $427,367, with donations still open online.

Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute chief executive Marco Herold said money raised by Tour de Cure participants would support cutting-edge research.

“Our researchers work metres from where patients receive treatment, allowing us to fasttrack scientific discoveries into new therapies,” he said.

“Observations from the clinic can be immediately investigated, creating a continual cycle of

“The Tour research funding is critical, providing essential resources for innovative projects and long-term studies. It is the spark that ignites the flame, and we are thankful that it can assist in propelling us forward on our mission”

– Marco Herold

learning and improvement between research and patient care.

“The Tour research funding is critical, providing essential resources for innovative projects and long-term studies.

“It is the spark that ignites the flame, and we are thankful that it can assist in propelling us forward on our mission.”

During the tour, organisers presented East Grampians Health Service’s oncology unit with $10,000, which the service will use to purchase items including a new treatment chair, furnishings and a coffee machine.

The Vic Discovery Tour is one of Tour de Cure’s annual cycle events and has a new route each year.

Riders train for a minimum of 16 weeks prior to the tour, focusing on fitness and peloton riding skills.

People can find more information and donate to the Vic Discovery Tour’s fundraising goal by visiting vicdiscovery.tourdecure.com.au.

team and I know that we’ll be able to move forward and work harmoniously together,” she said. All councillors took an oath and affirmation at a ceremony to declare councillors on October 28.

ELECTED: Kylie Zanker, third from left, will serve Yarriambiack Shire Council as mayor for another term, after being elected to the position at last week’s statutory meeting of council. Andrew McLean, second from right, will work alongside Cr Zanker as deputy mayor, also for the term of one year. Cr Zanker, who will represent Warracknabeal ward, said she was looking forward to working with Hopetoun ward’s Cr McLean, along with Dunmunkle ward’s Corinne Heintze, centre back, and Melinda Keel, second from left, Warracknabeal ward’s Karly Kirk, left, and Hopetoun ward’s Chris Lehmann, right. “We do have a strong councillor leadership

SUPPORTERS: Willaura Primary School students greet Vic Discovery Tour riders as they pass through the town.

McDougall accept their awards from David Clayton.

CONGRATULATIONS: East Grampians Health Services’ Garden View Court residents Marion Claringbold, Alice Yanner and Pam Williams accept their awards from David Clayton.

Success at the Ararat Show

Residents and consumers at East Grampians Health Service’s 70 Lowe Street, Garden View Court and Patricia Hinchey Centre took part in the Ararat Show last month, winning many ribbons and awards.

Several items were entered in the floral and herb section and arts and crafts sections by the residents and consumers.

At 70 Lowe Street, Val Kenyon won an honourable mention for her painting ‘Snowy Peaks’.

Norma Edwards won second place for her painting ‘Under the Sea’ but sadly passed away before the show, however, her family were happy for

Lowe Street staff to enter her painting, which she had been excited about.

Patricia Hinchey Centre clients won first place for their pansies and second for their herbs, while at Garden View Court Marion Claringbold won first place for her quilt, and Alice Yanner, Marion and Pam Williams won awards for their art and paintings.

EGHS and Ararat Show Society volunteer David Clayton presented specially-crafted participation awards to each facility, on behalf of the show society, which residents and consumers were thrilled to receive.

“It was great to see so many entries from our residents and consumers and they were excited to receive ribbons and awards for their efforts,” he said.

PRESENTATION:

Look and Play

Upgrades at Edenhope

Edenhope Early Childhood Service’s $400,000 building and yard redevelopment was officially opened by West Wimmera Shire Council mayor Tim Meyer last week.

Housing kindergarten, childcare and before and after-kindergarten care, the facility’s upgrades enable inclusive access for all children, enhance supervision, hygiene practices and indoor-outdoor flow, and have updated the building’s bathroom, laundry and storage facilities. Council received two grants from the Department of Education and Training’s Building Blocks grant program for the works, and Edenhope Kindergarten Parent Advisory Group contributed $6000. Council’s early years services at Goroke and Kaniva have also been significantly boosted in the past few years.

Hindmarsh giving appeal

Hindmarsh Shire Libraries will again host a collection point for the Christmas Tree Giving Appeal, accepting donations for people in need this Christmas.

People can donate new, unwrapped gifts at Nhill, Dimboola, Jeparit and Rainbow libraries. The gifts will be taken to Hor

David Clayton presents an award to Val Kenyon and 70 Lowe Street staff member Brooke Williamson, who accepted the award on behalf of Norma Edwards’ family.

AWARDED: Patricia Hinchey Centre consumers Patty Mooney, Mikki Sullivan, Katie Gawley and Sue

During a frenetic end to the Parliamentary sitting year in Canberra, residents of Natimuk, the Wimmera and Mallee - and Australia’s rock-climbers – wrote to me lamenting the Allan Labor Government shutting down approximately half the rock climbing routes at Mount Arapiles.

As Shadow Assistant Minister for Regional Health I spoke in Parliament about the way this decision will not only devastate Natimuk but the Wimmera’s health workforce, with so many rock-climbing enthusiasts among our health professionals. Sadly, several told me they will now leave, or abandon plans to buy a home in the region.

I commend The Nationals’ Member for Lowan, Emma Kealy for her efforts to preserve Natimuk and Mount Arapiles for everyone.

Federal Shadow Ministers for Indigenous Australians, Jacinta Nampijinpa Price and the Environment, Jono Duniam, shared my outrage and we moved motions drawing on the Mount Arapiles debacle to again highlight Labor’s disconnect with everyday Australians.

Australia comprehensively rejected Prime Minister Albanese’s divisive, unnecessary half-a-billion-dollar ‘Voice’ referendum, especially so in Mallee with over 78 per cent voting ‘No’ to the Voice.

Like the many rock-climbing enthusiasts who wrote to me, Australians respect indigenous heritage but oppose governments excluding Australians from national treasures without consultation. Mount Arapiles rock climbers established traditions of leaving no impact where they climb. Meanwhile, State Labor governments treat decent Australians as problems needing to be banned, pressing on with treaties and Voices as though the referendum never happened.

From climbing Uluru to closing Mount Warning in northern New South Wales, banning access to Lake Eyre in SA and now Mount Arapiles in the Grampians, Australians wonder: what rights will we lose next? Cultural heritage also cancelled Australia’s then-longest-running off-road rally, the Mallee Rally and a well-advanced tourist development at Lake Tyrrell, at great irrecoverable cost to landowners.

In the early Voice debate, Western Australian Labor’s radical cultural heritage laws were shelved due to farmer concerns they would bring their farms to a standstill.

I hope as the Coalition brings the national spotlight to Mount Arapiles, Victorian Labor will return to consultation and common sense so this international rock-climbing mecca is open to all.

The SEC Renewable Energy Park in Horsham is a 100% publicly owned solar and battery project. We’re investing in renewable, affordable, reliable energy. Helping reduce energy bills, drive down emissions and create local jobs.

Authorised by A. Webster,

Art project creates interest

Work is set to begin on Rainbow’s Llew Schilling silo tourism development, taking the site beyond the traditional mural of the area’s art trail, and installing viewing platforms and internal artwork.

A tower, to be constructed beside the 100-year-old silo, will house a stairway and lift to take people to a viewing platform about 24 metres above the ground.

A second platform will be built about five metres above the ground.

Tower foundations will be laid before the tower is manufactured in Ballarat, and transported to the site early next year, when the lift and platforms will then be installed.

An expression of interest has been launched for artists to submit ‘Art Activation’ proposals for both the internal and external art.

Hindmarsh Shire Council chief executive Monica Revell said the project showed the evolution of the region’s iconic silo art trail.

“The addition of the viewing tower will not only enhance visitor experience but also showcase the creative vision of artists from across Australia,” she said.

“This is a truly innovative project that will provide lasting benefits for our community and attract even more visitors to the Wimmera-Mallee region.”

Expressions of interest close on December 12, with further details available at www.hindmarsh.vic.gov.au/tenders.

For more information, people can phone Simon Landrigan on 5391 4444 or email slandrigan@hindmarsh.vic.gov.au.

An artist’s impresssion of the Llew Schilling silo tourism development.

Australia Day awards open

Ararat Rural City Council leaders are encouraging people to nominate those who have made significant contributions to the municipality for Australia Day awards.

The annual awards recognise locals who go the extra mile to improve the quality of residents’ lives, or exceed expectations in making their community a better place.

The council is now accepting nominations across four categories for the 2025 Australia Day Awards, the winners of which will be announced on January 26.

The four categories are Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, and Community Project of the Year.

Citizen of the Year recognises an individual making an extraordinary contribution to the community and can also recognise outstanding service across multiple years.

To be eligible, the person must be an Australian citizen and either work or reside in Ararat Rural City.

Young Citizen of the Year recognises a young person between the ages of 16 and 35 who fits the same criteria, while Volunteer of the Year celebrates the achievements of a person who contributes to the promotion of citizen engagement, community pride and a positive outlook on the future needs of the community.

Community Project of the Year recognises groups co-ordinating engaging projects that unify and celebrate community.

Council chief executive Tim Harrison said the awards were ‘an important celebration of the individuals and groups who make our community shine’.

Award nominations are now open and can be made at the Engage Ararat webpage before December 3 at engage.ararat.vic.gov. au/2025-australia-day-awards-nominations.

FAMILY FUN: Free family activities were the focus of the annual Kannamaroo Festival at the weekend, which included a market, carnival rides and amusements, mobile food and drink stalls, free entertainment and a visit from Santa. Saturday’s scheduled fireworks were cancelled due to a Total Fire Ban in the Wimmera. Pictured enjoying activities are, clockwise from left: Elena Payongayong and Catherine

cooking Filipino food;

Abellara

Filipino dancers; Leanne, Ellie, Poppy and Luke O’Connor; Meisha and Bailey Lee-Hooper; and Nicolette, Nava, Kim and Nikolas Bermudes.

Bistro Open 7 Days

Sponsorships

Wimmera District Scout Association, Lee Cooksley:

“We

“It gives our young members a chance to learn new skills and try a new activity and allows our leaders to maintain their accreditation. The bonus with having our own equipment means we don’t have to borrow from elsewhere, it’s been really handy. Scouting covers all sorts of abilities and activities and it gets our young people outdoors.

“The grants are very easy to apply for. I’d encourage anyone to give it a go it’s really easy to do and they are a great support.”

FRIDAY 6 DECEMBER 2024

WWHS EXECUTIVE TEAM PANEL

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to hear directly from our Executive Team as they discuss the key challenges facing the Service today. Gain invaluable insights into their vision and the strategies they believe will shape the future. This is a great opportunity to ask questions and gain insights in a dynamic and interactive format

Throughout December, we offer complimentary delivery on our premium Silver and Gold medal wines within Horsham, for orders comprising six or more bottles, thereby providing an effortless Christmas shopping solution.

Health group sets priorities

Rural Northwest Health has committed to continuing to provide its community and teams with safe, quality care, strong leadership, positive culture, and effective financial management, through its signing of 2024-25 Statement of Priorities with the Department of Health.

RNH’s chairman John Aitken and chief executive Jenni Masters met with Department of Health’s western health services and aged care executive director Janelle Hearn in Ballarat on November 15 to sign the Statement of Priorities, SoP.

stronger workforce, and move from competition to collaboration via information sharing.

Setting out its focus areas for the year ahead, the Department of Health will target finance, cultural safety and training and engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, gender equality, and the creation of Regional Health Networks.

Looking for a reason to leave home on a cold winter’s morning?

“John and I were pleased to have an opportunity to speak about the positive work that RNH is doing, including the changes we’ve made, and the hire and retention of our great staff,” Ms Masters said.

The SoP is the key accountability agreements between the State Government and Victorian publicly funded health, mental health and ambulance services.

Join Gason and the Greater Ararat Business Network –GABN for a warming breakfast while enjoying a tour of one of Ararat’s best-known manufacturers of agricultural machinery.

The SoP is consistent with an organisations’ strategic plans and aligns to government policy directions and priorities. Also forming part of the SoP are the commitments to: operate within a budget, improve access to healthcare and wellbeing, build a

“It was a positive day and further cemented that things are going really well for us as an organisation.”

Dr Aitken said it was great to meet with Department of Health representatives to discuss the priorities, opportunities, and some of the challenges for RNH in the coming year.

Enjoy a breakfast Bacon & Egg roll and freshly ground coffee courtesy of a local coffee van.

7:00am Networking and breakfast

“We look forward to more discussions as we prepare for the Regional Health Network implementation and develop a new strategic plan for RNH in 2025,” he said.

7:30am Tom Clark talks all things GABN

7:45am Overview of Gason’s past, present, and future

Planning for worker homes

The State Government has opened another round of the Regional Worker Accommodation Fund.

Regional Development Minister Gayle Tierney announced the opening of applications for the program, which supports shovel-ready projects, with a co-investment from private businesses, industries, regional councils, or community groups to deliver the worker housing that local industries and workforces need.

Eligible housing projects will be fitfor-purpose to meet the skills needs of key sectors such as health, agriculture, education, manufacturing, and tourism – from self-contained units, worker villages, family dwellings, shared accommodation, and studios – and unique to the needs of the local community.

“We’re working closely with private sector businesses, industry and community groups to build the homes and accommodation our towns need – supporting Victoria’s regions to have the skilled workers they need so our communities can prosper,” Ms Tierney said.

8:00am Tour of the manufacturing facility

Works on a tunnel track loop walk at Pomonal are advancing, with an initial phase of track-clearing that began in late September now complete. The purpose of the works was to remove obstacles and hazards, enabling surfacing works.

8:45am Q & A time and finish

tion zones and standardise the alignment of the track’s surface.

DATE

GABN Agri-business breakfast with AF Gason

Works progress on Pomonal tunnel track loop

GABN Agri-business breakfast with AF Gason

Wednesday 14th August 7:00am – 8:45am

LOCATION

Ararat Rural City Council chief executive Tim Harrison said sections of the track had been updated with local granite sand to safeguard tree protec-

Following the completion of the surfacing work, the council will install outdoor furniture including bench seats and picnic tables along the track.

AF Gason - New shed - entry off 30 Baird Street Ararat Victoria 3377

Dr Harrison said stairs at the corner of Ararat-Halls Gap Road and Robins Road could also receive an upgrade depending on budgetary constraints.

Looking for a reason to leave home on a cold winter’s morning?

“We recognise that projects like the tunnel track upgrade can be inconvenient to the community, and we appreciate residents’ co-operation and patience,” he said.

WILSON ST BAIRDST

“Once complete, the upgraded walk will be a fantastic asset to not only Pomonal but our municipality and region as a whole.”

Dr Harrison said the project, part of Planning Permit PA3093, was de-

BOOK YOUR FREE SPOT HERE

veloped to enhance the community’s recreational offerings with a new and improved walking track.

People can address questions or concerns about the project to the council’s economic development lead, Tim McDougall, by calling 0448 848 527.

Round one of the funding included money for more than 20 projects, boosting affordable housing options for workers and their families.

Successful projects include eight four-bedroom units for 30 workers at Don Smallgoods’ Castlemaine facility; accommodation for workers at Mt Hotham, Mt Buller and Falls Creek; and affordable housing options for various regional health workers.

Applications close on January 31. For more information about the fund, visit rdv.vic.gov.au/rwaf.

BE THERE WITH JINGLE BELLS ON

Join Gason and the Greater Ararat Business Network –GABN for a warming breakfast while enjoying a tour of one of Ararat’s best-known manufacturers of agricultural machinery.

Enjoy a breakfast Bacon & Egg roll and freshly ground coffee courtesy of a local coffee van.

7:00am Networking and breakfast

7:30am Tom Clark talks all things GABN

5 DECEMBER, 2024 6PM UNTIL 9PM

7:45am Overview of Gason’s past, present, and future 8:00am Tour of the manufacturing facility

8:45am Q & A time and finish

ARARAT TURF CLUB - GEELONG RD

DATE

Wednesday 14th August 7:00am – 8:45am

LOCATION

FAYST BLAKEST

RSVP by Sunday 1st December at:

AF Gason - New shed - entry off 30 Baird Street Ararat Victoria 3377

SIGNED: Rural Northwest Health board chair Dr John Aitken and Department of Health western health services and aged care executive director Janelle Hearn are shown signing the Statement of Priorities.

BENEFITS FOR THE REGION

ECONOMIC BENEFIT FOR THE REGION

◆ 588 jobs per annum over 30 years.

◆ Add an extra $3.5 billion in Gross Regional Product.

ECONOMIC DIVERSITY & OPPORTUNITIES

◆ Avonbank will help attract and retain young people to regional Victoria.

◆ Avonbank will help provide more diverse job opportunities for the region.

SUSTAINABLE MINING PRACTICES

◆ Avonbank trial mining and successful rehabilitation completed.

◆ Land will be restored to productive farms within four years of mining.

SUPPORTING AND WORKING IN PARTNERSHIP WITH OUR COMMUNITY

◆ WIM has completed and will continue extensive consultation with a variety of stakeholders.

◆ WIM proudly supports several community partnerships and sponsorships.

JOB CREATION – A BOOST FOR THE VICTORIAN ECONOMY

◆ 967 jobs per annum over 30 years for the State of Victoria.

CRITICAL MINERALS

◆ Avonbank will produce zircon, rare earths, and titanium minerals.

◆ Crucial for the global transition to net zero emissions and energy security.

ECONOMIC BENEFIT FOR THE STATE

◆ Avonbank will increase the Gross State Product by $5.77 billion.

$3.5B

967

36 YEARS MINE LIFE including construction, operations and rehabilitation phases

OPERATIONS JOBS created directly and indirectly for Victoria across a range of industries

GROSS STATE REVENUE in Victoria across a range of industries during the operations phase

GROSS REGIONAL PRODUCT in the Wimmera Southern Mallee region during the operations phase

NEW CLINIC:

Grampians Health haematologist

Dr Adam Facey with patient Amanda Hancock at the clinic in Stawell.

Specialist care boost

Grampians Health has opened a new haematology clinic in Stawell, expanding access to specialist care in the region.

The clinic complements a fortnightly service in Horsham and will help patients diagnosed with a blood disorder to access treatment locally, reducing the need for patients to travel to Ballarat or Melbourne to manage conditions.

Grampians Health chief operating officer Ben Kelly said Stawell patients had to travel to Horsham or Ballarat to access haematology services in the public system prior to the clinic’s opening.

“The clinic in Stawell, which is a fortnightly service, was established after we identified a local need,” he said.

“Many of our Horsham patients were travelling from Stawell, so we assessed the demand and started the clinic this year to make care more accessible.”

Grampians Health haematologist Adam Facey said a haematology clinic was instrumental in diagnosing and treating people with blood disorders and cancers such as leukaemia, myeloma and lymphoma.

“With the new clinic, patients with bleeding and clotting conditions but do not have cancer, will now receive quicker attention and care,” he said.

“Prior to having this clinic, they would have experienced a longer waiting time but now they will be seen more quickly.

“For those diagnosed with cancer, with a haematologist visiting every fortnight, there is now the potential to offer more complex chemotherapy treatments locally.”

In addition to the clinic, Grampians Health’s haematology team is also expanding its clinical trial research to include Stawell, offering advanced research opportunities to staff members and aiming

to improve health outcomes for the local community.

Mr Kelly said Grampians Health had expanded access to specialist care in Stawell since its formation in 2021.

This year Grampians Health initiated weekly visits of geriatricians to its hospitals in Stawell and Horsham, enabling patients in acute care to receive timely specialist care, while also appointing a full-time nurse practitioner to enhance local care.

“Opening the haematology clinic in Stawell is part of our ongoing commitment to making healthcare more accessible to regional communities,” Mr Kelly said.

“We are dedicated to ensuring that patients receive the care they need closer to home, which is crucial for their overall well-being.”

People can make appointments at the haematology clinic via a GP referral. More information about the service is available by calling 5320 8500.

HAPPY DAYS: Hudson Purtill at the East Grampians Health Service Family Day Care centre, while his mum Madison fills a nursing shift at Ararat hospital.

Day care proving beneficial

After officially opening its family daycare service in September, East Grampians Health Service and its staff are already seeing the benefits.

The service, in partnership with Let’s Go Family Day Care, enables staff to access short-term and short-notice childcare when required to work.

The new facility allows staff, who are asked to work shifts at short notice, including night shifts, to have access to family day care facilities that are a short walk from the health service.

The service acts as a short-notice facility to enable staff to work when required if a session is not available at their usual provider.

More than 20 families expressed interest or have registered for the service, many expressing their gratitude for this initiative.

Staff member Madison Purtill, a theatre nurse in the EGHS Perioperative Unit, has

found the service beneficial to her family.

Ms Purtill’s son Hudson is on a waitlist at a local childcare facility, but having the EGHS Family Day Care in the interim has allowed her to continue working and her husband to complete study, avoiding the need to take leave for child-minding.

“Hudson loves going to family day care. The carer makes his days enjoyable through ensuring they do activities that Hudson loves ... and keeping him entertained throughout the day,” Ms Purtill said.

“The facility is excellent and well suited to all age kids. I would recommend to any EGHS staff to enrol your child into family day care.

“I am very happy with the service. It is such a great idea and makes working and continuing to work at EGHS very appealing to have this as an option as a mother. I am very proud of my workplace when I tell friends and family of this service.”

Council to boost lifeguards

Stawell

Sports and Aquatic

Centre and St Arnaud Swimming Pool leaders are on the hunt for additional staff to help keep patrons safe as they launch their 2024-25 summer seasons.

The summer season, which began at both pools this month and continues until mid-March 2025, sees an average of about 11,000 visitors to Stawell Sports and Aquatic Centre and 8000 at St Arnaud Swimming Pool.

Northern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Karen Hyslop said with predictions of a hot summer, both Stawell and St Arnaud pools needed additional lifeguards to ensure safety of both patrons and staff.

She said for a limited time, the council would cover the cost of lifeguard training, valued at $520.

“Pool lifeguards have the most important job at the pool – their main role is prevention, educating patrons about rules and safety to eliminate the risk of drowning,” she said.

“Casual lifeguards can work between three and 30 hours a week over summer. Our managers work with our lifeguards to ensure they have the number of hours that suit their needs.

“Along with flexibility, other benefits include a fun and rewarding atmosphere to work in, an outdoor environment, an attractive pay rate and qualifications that are recognised Australia-wide.”

Cr Hyslop said lifeguard positions were also stepping stones for career progression at the centre or within Northern Grampians Shire Council.

“A lifeguard position could turn into

“It’s an incredibly rewarding job that promotes teamwork, responsibility and leadership skills. You gain many life skills such as emergency response and first aid, which can be beneficial in many areas of life”

– Eliza Parker, right

a duty manager position once they turn 18, and they could also progress into other areas within the council,” she said.

Duty manager-in-training Eliza Parker joined the Stawell Sports and Aquatic Centre team in January 2023 and said she would encourage others to consider becoming a lifeguard.

“The thing I enjoy most about being a lifeguard is the ability to ensure a safe environment for the community to enjoy,” she said.

“I also like the positive team culture, as it makes the job more enjoyable.

“The dynamic environment means every day brings new challenges and opportunities to learn.

“It’s an incredibly rewarding job that promotes teamwork, responsibility and leadership skills.

“You gain many life skills such as emergency response and first aid, which can be beneficial in many areas of life.”

Cr Hyslop encouraged residents looking for work over the summer or beyond to consider lifeguard training.

“There has never been a better time to become a lifeguard in Northern Grampians Shire,” she said.

Anyone interested in finding out more about funded lifeguard training opportunities can call council recreation, leisure and libraries coordinator Samantha Winter on 5358 8759 or email samantha.winter@ngshire.vic. gov.au. People can visit www.ngshire.

vic.gov.au/Sports-Recreation-andLeisure for more information about opening hours and what is on offer, or follow St Arnaud Swimming Pool or Stawell Sports and Aquatic Centre on Facebook for updates.

Contracts terminated

Kaniva Caravan Park and swimming pools at Kaniva and Edenhope have had their management and operation contracts terminated, with West Wimmera Shire Council seeking to secure new providers for all three.

West Wimmera Shire Council has mutually agreed to terminate the contract following careful consideration and discussions with the contractor, and is committed to opening the pools and ensuring the operation of the caravan park as quickly as possible for the summer season.

Council will be retendering the contract for a seven-day period to secure a new provider who can meet the required health, safety, and operational standards.

The three sites will be offered individually or as a combined contract, allowing flexibility to attract a broader range of suppliers and ensure the best outcomes for the community.

Council chief executive David Bezuidenhout said the council was focussed on opening the swimming pools as soon as possible.

“Despite the challenges we’ve faced, we are focused on getting the swimming pools open quickly for the benefit of our community,” he said.

“We are prioritising the re-tendering process, and are working urgently to ensure all staffing, training, and compliance requirements are met ahead of the season.”

Council is also working to provide paid lifeguard employment opportunities to local people for the upcoming season.

Training and certification details will be shared shortly, allowing interested individuals to apply and take part in the seasonal workforce.

Let us take the stress out of your Christmas Party planning with drinks, food, entertainment, up close racing action and security for peace of mind all taken care of. With plenty of activities for kids and adults, it is fun for everyone!

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GRIGGS

APPEARING LIVE AT

Natimuk Showgrounds

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13

Acacia Caravan Park

Allan & Trev’s Workwear

Ararat Auto & Ag

Ararat RSL

BJs Furniture and Bedding & Beds R Us

Cafe Chickpea

Cellarbrations Superstore

Centre for Participation

Cooks Of Horsham

Cosmetic Concreting

Curtains by Robyn and Abbey

DMD Horsham & Nhill

Dollar Curtains & Blinds Ararat

Dooen Hotel

Elite Podiatry Centre

Farrers Tyrepower

SHOP AT THESE PARTICIPATING BUSINESSES

Forty Winks Horsham

Grampians Office Services

Harvey Norman Ararat

Harvey Norman Horsham

Hayley Maree Bridal

Hermans of Horsham

Holistic Haven

Horsham Amcal Pharmacy

Horsham Doors and Glass

Horsham Golf Club

Horsham Lanes and Games

Horsham RSL

Horsham Sports & Community Club

Intersport Horsham

J&A Shooting and Fishing

Kings Cars Ararat

KLM Concreting, Soil Yard & Nursery

Lardner Bros Locksmiths & Security

Laser Plumbing and Electrical Horsham

Martin’s Hose Repairs

Maxfab

McPhersons of Brim

Moe’s Mexican Bar & Grill

Network Mobility

Poolwerx Horsham

Priceline Pharmacy Ararat

Salon Mode

Schiers Cabinet Makers

Senor Mex

Spotlight Horsham

Stawell Lotto

Stawell Pharmacy

The Gums Dental

The Local 165 Cafe & Bar

The Victoria Hotel Horsham

Traction Ag

Tyrepower Ararat

Wade’s Horsham

Wilson Bolton

Wimmera Aquatrail

Wimmera Bearings

Wimmera Mallee Ag

Wimmera Outdoors

Wimmera Spas and Pools

Wimmera Truck Centre

YarriYak Cafe (Rural Northwest Health)

Telstra Horsham & Ararat Store

Wild dog anguish

The National Wild Dog Action Plan Coordination Committee chair has once again called on the State Government to return to the unprotection order system to control wild dogs in northwest Victoria.

Geoff Power said wild dog attacks continue to affect farmers in north-west Victoria. Wild dogs and dingos mostly live in the Big Desert National Park, but wander on neighbouring farms, particularly in dry conditions, looking for water and kill farmers’ livestock.

The State Government made a shock announcement in April to lift an unprotection order for dingoes and wild dogs in north-west Victoria. The unprotection zone borders state parks, where the latest Arthur Rylah Institute data indicates the dingo population is at risk of extinction with as few as 40 dingoes left.

The changes mean farmers can no longer use any wild dog control to protect livestock on private land.

“When a government brings in a law that fully protects, in this case dingoes, Victorian farmers in that vicinity can do very little about that and they just have to wear stock losses, which we believe is not good enough,” Mr Power said.

“They say it’s evidence based, we contest that. For argument’s sake in South Australia, where Ngarkat Conservation Park, which joins landholders in South Australia and also joins parks in Victoria, we did a very quick survey just inside the park and we found evidence of 21 dogs in a very small area in the Ngarkat park.

“So we question the fact the Victorian gov-

“I’d like to see the status quo come in again, where they had an order in council where landholders could protect their livestock”

– Geoff Power

ernment believes dingos are under threat within their parks in the northwest of the state.”

Mr Power said lifting the unprotection order not only resulted in increased livestock attacks, but was affecting farmers’ mental health.

“The mental anguish that this causes is twofold. It hits your bottom line, of course, because you’re losing sheep, but the other thing is farmers really love their animals, and they really feel it when they get up in the morning and they go out and see livestock predated, and you can’t sleep at night – it’s just a terrible situation to be in,” he said.

Mr Power said the government had said farmers could apply for a permit to continue controlling wild dogs on their properties, but more than six months later, permits had not been allocated to north-west farmers.

“And if they have, it’s too late. It’s after the damage is done,” he said.

“I’d like to see the status quo come in again, where they had an order in council where landholders could protect their livestock.

“In the northeast of the state, we’re pleased to see that an order in council was continued.

“So in the northeast of the state, there’s a three-kilometre buffer zone between the parks and private landholders – and that’s worked for years. So what we want to see, as a National Wild Dog Action Plan Coordination Committee, is that reinstated.”

Glenlofty wins gold at royal awards

Glenlofty Estate’s 2023 Marsanne Roussanne won the prestigious gold medal and coveted trophy for Best White Blend of the Show at this year’s Melbourne Royal Wine Awards.

The winery, east of Crowlands, was originally planted in 1994 and lies across the western foothills of the Pyrenees.

The awards bring further acclaim to the vineyard for its dedication to quality and excellence in winemaking.

Glenlofty vineyard manager Scott Gerrard and senior winemaker Eden Walpole at Blue Pyrenees, also part of the Vinesmith Wine Group, accepted the trophy on behalf of Glenlofty Estate.

“Glenlofty Estate has always been a very difficult site because of frost and drought. It’s a joy when the team and I can get outstanding fruit into the winery, whether it’s our wellknown Northern Rhone varietals or our Nebbiolo or Cabernet reds,” Mr Gerard said.

“Eden Walpole keeps the winemaking simple and lets the fruit do the talking. A great team effort.”

Earlier in the day, the Glenlofty team joined other exhibitors at a morning tasting, where its 2023 Marsanne Roussanne

stood out for its unique Northern Rhône-inspired aromatics and elegant structure.

The 2023 Marsanne Roussanne is a blend of two celebrated Northern Rhône varietals that thrive in the cool-climate Pyrenees region of Victoria.

Mr Gerard said with Marsanne’s pear, melon, and mineral notes adding depth and texture, and Roussanne’s fresh, floral aromatics enhancing structure, the wine exemplified the elegance and complexity for which Glenlofty Estate was becoming renowned.

Since its first vintage under the Glenlofty label in 2011, the estate has earned multiple awards globally, with James

Halliday’s five-star winery rating.

The vineyard’s cool-climate terroir, with granitic soils and Northern Rhône-like slopes, allows the fruit to achieve unusual intensity and finesse, very different from Australia’s warmer wine regions.

Initially supplying premium fruit for iconic labels like Seppelts and Penfolds, Glenlofty’s 140 hectares were acquired by the pioneering RichmondSmith family in 2010, beginning a successful venture in boutique winemaking for global markets.

For more information, visit www.glenloftywines.com.au.

STARS: Glenlofty vineyard manager Scott Gerrard and senior winemaker Eden Walpole at the Melbourne Royal Wine Awards.

Late rain provides a silver lining

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

On the end of a growing season that started with a late break and ended with hailstorms and late rain in some areas, it appears this year’s harvest could be comparable to those of recent years.

Shannon Bros Horsham site manager Mick Purchase said 90 per cent of growers who had visited the grain receival and storage facility were happy with this year’s quality and yields.

“Going back a few months ago, it wasn’t looking too promising,” he said.

“But I think everyone’s pretty happy with things at the moment.

“I think last harvest’s summer rains, as much as they caused grief for all the growers and the grain receivable sites around the Wimmera and Mallee at the time, have left subsoil moisture and really helped get them through this harvest.”

Growers from a vast area bring their grain to Horsham’s Shannon Bros –from west of Nhill, to Balmoral, and Hopetoun.

“We take five commodities here –beans, lentils, wheat, barley and canola – and we’ve got all five going at the moment,” Mr Purchase said.

“We’re currently getting wheat from Hopetoun and Beulah way, as our Beulah site’s pretty much full already.

“With quality and yield at the moment we’re quite happy, but it is only the start of harvest.

“It’s going to end quickly, and the quality will back off a bit.

“I thought the quality was going to be quite average this year, especially the lentils, but surprisingly, the lentils are really good.”

Mr Purchase said the site handles an average of about 120,000 tonnes of the five commodities each year, with

beans exported to Egypt, and lentils to India and Bangladesh, and wheat both kept in Australia and exported to China.

“We thought we may only get half the average this year, but we’re thinking we’ll get three quarters of that, which is fantastic,” he said.

“All the grain receivers in the area are doing well.

“It’s not as dire as it looks out there, which has surprised us and surprised growers.”

03 5225 5225 info@ha legal harwoodandrews.com.au

Mr Purchase predicted harvest would finish at the beginning of the new year, after an early start, whereas last year’s harvest finished at the end of January this year.

He said parts of the Mallee had fared better than others, which was echoed by John Ferrier, who farms 25 kilometres north of Birchip.

Mr Ferrier said 45 millimetres of rain fell at his farm at the weekend, with more predicted this week.

“We welcome any rain prior to crop-

ping season, but with rain now, you ask what kind of damage it’s doing to the crop that’s left,” he said.

“We can expect a downgrade in quality will be the absolute major issue, and obviously a lesser price of that premium that we were getting for our wheat beforehand, too.

“But you look at the bright side –maybe it will store some moisture for next year’s crop. There’s always next year.”

Mr Ferrier said despite a ‘really

“We’re currently getting wheat from Hopeton and Beulah way, as our Beulah site’s pretty much full already. With quality and yield at the moment we’re quite happy, but it is only the start of harvest”

– Mick Purchase

tough’ season across the region and widespread low rainfall, he had grown out his crops.

“We’ve harvested every paddock so far,” he said.

“In late October we had a 60mm rainfall event when our wheat was still green.

“Most of our other crops had finished, but the wheat responded well to that rain, so we ended up with reasonable yields with good quality, for the rain we’ve had.

“People were cropping as fast as they could, knowing there could be a rainfall event, but the rain we are getting is much more than was predicted by the Bureau even on Friday.

“Some of our wheat crops have gone 2.5-tonne per hectare, and some are down to one tonne per hectare.”

Mr Ferrier said he had harvested his barley, lentils and canola, with just wheat remaining.

“Our lentils were making number one grade, so we really haven’t had any issues there, and the canola oil content has been pretty good, in that 42, 43 range,” he said.

“Grain quality depends on the wind at this stage – the humidity is still quite high, and every forecaster is saying we’ll get a light breeze.

“We needed real wind like we had before the rain event came through.”

PRETTY HAPPY: Shannon Bros Horsham site manger Mick Purchase shovels lentils – one of five commodities received at the site. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Farmer centre expansion

The National Centre for Farmer Health at Hamilton is moving into a new premises to continue its nation-leading efforts to improve the health and wellbeing of farmers and their communities.

Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture Michaela Settle, representing Agriculture Minister Ros Spence, officially opened the new premises at Hamilton on Thursday, marking a milestone in the growth of the centre since its establishment in 2009.

The new site sits within the local agriculture community and reinforces its role as a vital resource for the health, wellbeing and safety of farmers, farm workers and their families.

As the south-west continues to experience drought conditions, Agriculture Victoria has been working with the NCFH to support farmers, their families and communities, and the State Government has provided a $13.53-million drought support package.

The government is directing $1.43-million towards farmer wellbeing, technical decision-making advice and a regional drought coordinator.

More than $12-million in on-farm drought infrastructure grants is also

OFFICIAL: The National Centre for Farmer Health relocated to a new premises in Hamilton last week, marking a milestone in the growth of the centre since its establishment in 2009.

available for farmers to make upgrades to equip their businesses to better withstand the current drought and future dry seasonal conditions.

Ms Settle said the government was proud of its long-term partnership with National Centre for Farmer Health.

Alongside a contribution of $900,000 in the 2024-25 State Budget, another $100,000 grant is helping fund the Shifting Gears pro-

gram, which will deliver important safety resources to the next generation of farmers.

“Congratulations to the NCFH team who continue to work tirelessly to improve the health of our farmers and their communities, I encourage farmers experiencing the impacts of drought to use the NCFH and the other services being delivered as part of the Drought Support Package,” she said.

“Victoria is incredibly proud to have a such an important and highly regarded service located in Hamilton, the incredible work you do supports our farmers, their families and communities when they need it most.”

For more information about the National Centre for Farmer Health visit, farmerhealth.org.au.

Shearers call for support

Shearers are calling on the Federal Government to impose a regulation body and subsequent licensing regime on all labour hire companies to remedy reports of widespread exploitation in shearing sheds across the country.

A new resolution passed at Australian Workers’ Union’s national conference earlier this month, asking for a new national licensing and enforcement body, which would hold powers to ensure licensing and registration, but also have powers of enforcement.

AWU was formed by unionised shearers in Ballarat in 1886, and AWU Victoria branch country team lead organiser Ross Kenna said those shearers would be ashamed to see what was now happening in shearing sheds.

“The AWU was born fighting for shearers, and we’re not backing down now,” he said.

“It’s disgraceful that some of the same exploitative attitudes that we saw prevailing in the 1890s have reemerged in 2024.

“Today we are once again seeing young shearers working for poverty wages in unsafe conditions.”

Mr Kenna said a national licensing system for shearing contractors was a must if workers’ rights and safety were to be protected.

“There’s no reason that the regulation of this industry should lag every other industry in the country,” he said.

“Shearers deserve safe jobs, fair pay, and protection from dodgy contractors just like everyone else.

“That’s why I’m so pleased that the AWU has officially committed to fighting for a licensing body that can put an end to the abuse.”

‘Threats coming thick and fast’

Member for Mallee Anne Webster used National Agriculture Day on November 15 to target energy projects as a major threat to farming in the Mallee electorate.

Dr Webster said research from Frontier Economics – consultants used by all sides of politics to analyse the impact of government policies – showed the cost of energy projects to be more than $642-billion.

“Labor’s globally unprecedented experimental transition to an exclusively renewable energy mix will cost $520-billion more than they estimated,” she said.

“At last count there are over 50 existing or proposed wind or solar projects within Mallee, with a rapidly expanding footprint into prime agricultural land. Which is unsurprising given wind and solar simply cannot carry the load for Australia.

“The NEM Dashboard shows consistently over the past 12 months that coal and gas provided 63 per cent of Australia’s energy – baseload power – not intermittent wind or solar.”

Dr Webster said nuclear energy placed on existing coal-fired power plant sites was the internationally proven solution for Australia’s energy and food security.

“All Australians will benefit from the Coalition’s balanced energy mix of renewables, gas and nuclear to replace Labor’s expensive

and failing all-eggs-in-one-basket renewables only approach,” she said.

“Shifting to nuclear will keep 24-7 baseload power in the system, on tap, to drive prices down and keep the lights on while we decarbonise.”

Dr Webster said advocacy group Farms for Food shared footage of Litchfield, Donald and Watchem farming stalwart Jim ‘Spud’ Hepworth’s call for farmers to respect their intergenerational neighbour relationships and not buy into divisive energy and mining projects.

She said project proponents had a practice of using non-disclosure agreements to secure deals with individual farmers.

Dr Webster shared Mr Heptworth’s testimony from the video in a parliamentary speech in Canberra earlier this month.

“Spud is spot on – the threats are coming thick and fast,” Dr Webster said.

“Wind turbines, solar panels, transmission lines like VNI-West and WIRES, and increasingly active mineral sands proposals are carving up Mallee to put energy and mining first and second in Mallee.

“Food production and food security is at risk. Farmers have a right to farm but Labor lords it over them as if farmers are peasants who own nothing, only farming at their feudal lord’s pleasure.

“It’s time private property rights were upheld.”

‘Spud’ shares emotional message

A fourth-generation northern Wimmera farmer has had his thoughts shared in federal Parliament.

A video of Litchfield, Donald and Watchem farming stalwart Jim ‘Spud’ Hepworth sharing his opinions on the current shift of energy projects moving into the region was shared by Member for Mallee Anne Webster.

Mr Hepworth was quite emotional in a video shared on ‘Farms for Food’ social media.

“To see something go through like a power line or a mineral sands or something that would just break your heart – to see it all smashed up,” he said.

“We’re fortunate to keep this place through droughts, floods, and just every five or six years we get a bad year and we, being a farmer, you just know how to get through those bad years.

“And so, it’s just meant everything to me. All my life, that’s all it’s been, the farm.”

Mr Hepworth said farmers were the ‘greatest naturalist people in the world’ because if they did not look after their ground, it would be gone.

“It’s the same as if you don’t look after your wife, she’ll be gone too, won’t she?” he said, with a chuckle.

Mr Hepworth acknowledged

that some landowners wanted windfarms, while others did not.

“Then they don’t tell each other what’s going on, and then they’re squabbling and fighting,” he said.

“It never happened years ago.

The farmers always went to their neighbours before they did anything, and it’s all gone out of the back window.”

Mr Hepworth said money being offered by the energy companies was driving a wedge between neighbours.

“They’re not thinking about the friendship that over the 100 years that they’ve been there. They’re not thinking about the friendship that their forefathers brought together,” he said.

“Now this family’s not talking

to family members and it’s bad. It’s bringing a big division in amongst the population.”

“And we can’t afford to have too many people not being friends in the country because that’s what it’s all about.”

Mr Hepworth said neighbours needed to get along and communicate, not avoid each other at the supermarket.

“That’s not the country way of life,” he said.

“They’re ruined them in that country way of life. But people have just got to be wary that you want to talk to your neighbours and your friends before you do anything like this because it’s going to wreck the whole community.”

Jim Hepworth

Mutton shortage predicted

BY LAUREN HENRY

Western Victorian sheep producers are being forced to cull older ewes due to a poor season.

AWN Wimmera manager Wayne Driscoll said he believed there would be a shortage of mutton next year.

“You cannot continue to sell off at these high levels without some catch up ramification at some stage,” he said.

“So our thoughts are, particularly in our area, that come the autumn next year, subject to what season conditions look like, there could be a real shortage of mutton going forward.”

Mr Driscoll said farmers were not buying extra sheep.

“There’s no one holding their hand up saying ‘I’ll go and buy 1500 or 2000 ewes extra and trade them for the year,” he said.

“A lot of the producers in the area – most of them – are downsizing, selling that extra age group of ewes, mainly due to the season.

“There was a couple, that with a little bit of a carryover from the year before, we’ve seen these enormous numbers that we haven’t seen for decades across the Wimmera.”

Right to repair

A renewed emphasis on consumers’ right to repair was welcomed by National Farmers Federation, who has formed a taskforce in a bid to include agricultural machinery in the proposed reforms. In his address to Australian Business Economists, Treasurer Jim Chalmers outlined two reforms.

“I expect we’ll start by fast-tracking the adoption of trusted international product safety standards and developing a general right to repair – both Commonwealth-led reforms,” he said.

NFF chief executive Tony Mahar said the organisation was committed to a scenario where manufacturers and farmers could work constructively on a right to repair framework for farm machinery.

“What we need is greater flexibility for farmers to repair their equipment, like what other countries have achieved for their farm sector,” he said.

“We haven’t been able to land any such arrangements so far. We’ve been pursuing the right to repair to give farmers greater flexibility to use a suitably qualified repairer of their choice without fear of voiding warranties, travelling long distances, or waiting excessive periods, to access supplier repairers.”

“They’ve been doing the same thing – downsizing as well,” he said.

“These sheep have been processed, so they’re not coming back.

“That’s something to be very clear of. You can transfer young sheep around the country via store connections, but once they’ve been processed, older ewes, they’re not coming back, are they.”

Mr Driscoll said South Australian sheep producers were in a similar situation.

Mr Driscoll said the number of prime lambs was also lower.

“Our numbers have been slower out of the gate this year than normal, and once again that’s seasonal conditions, so our window of real fresh lambs came and went,” he said.

“We’re into second drafts now that are dry, and woolly, and they’re saleable enough to be making reasonable money – 120, 30, 40, 50 dollars, so they’re moving

them, but we don’t have a lot of really good heavy processing lambs at the moment.”

Mr Driscoll said a sale at Edenhope last week had lower numbers compared with last year.

“That’s a sign of people that chose to make a transaction on new lambs earlier instead of feeding them through to take them through to these one and a half,” he said.

NFF’s right to repair taskforce, a collective of commodity councils and state farming organisations, has been pushing for policy changes to address the issue.

“We are encouraged by Treasurer Chalmers’ comments signalling a focus on right to repair, but want to see a firm commitment this will include agricultural machinery,” Mr Mahar said.

“This move would not only align with the recommendations from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, Productivity Commission and right to repair academics, but would also bring Australia in line with our international competitors such as Canada and the state of Colorado in the United States, where right to repair is now law.”

ON THE JOB: AWN Wimmera manager Wayne Driscoll, right, with Pat Dunn at Horsham Regional Livestock Exchange. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

NFF delivers wishlist ahead of budget

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Investments to improve Australia’s freight network, support farm-worker accommodation and fund climate research are at the top of a National Farmers’ Federation wishlist ahead of the 2025-26 Federal Budget.

The National Farmers’ Federation, NFF, delivered a list of 20 investment priorities, aimed at increasing productivity growth, to the Federal Government as part of a pre-budget submission.

Murra Warra farmer and NFF president David Jochinke said the Australian economy was navigating complex challenges relating to slowed productivity growth and ongoing cost-ofliving pressures amid shifting global dynamics.

“Families are grappling with rising costs, tight budgets and growing uncertainties. Australian farmers also share these burdens as productivity growth lags, input prices fluctuate, and market volatility squeezes margins,” he said.

“Yet we remain steadfastly optimistic about agriculture’s role in helping Australia address these challenges.

“With the right policy and investment settings, agriculture can help Australia overcome its challenges.”

Topping the NFF’s pre-budget requests was $1-billion to improve road and rail freight supply chains.

Mr Jochinke said Australia’s ability to compete in global markets depended on efficient and reliable transportation networks, with inefficiencies resulting in increased costs and a loss of

international market share. The NFF also asked the government to commit $175-million towards a farm-worker accommodation investment package aimed at supporting the agricultural sector’s ability to attract and retain a skilled workforce while improving the industry’s reputation.

Mr Jochinke said a $150-million request for climate-related research and development would result in farmers who were better informed, drive innovation in farming practices and technologies, build resilience against climate impacts and improve greenhouse gas accounting across the agricultural sector.

Other major items included $36million to extend the On Farm Connectivity Program to grow digital uptake, and $25-million for a national,

agricultural-industry-led program to improve farmers’ wellbeing and prevent suicides.

“While strong economic policies are vital to our sector’s growth, the people driving agriculture are at the heart of everything we achieve,” Mr Jochinke said. “It’s why we’ve included an ask to boost farmer wellbeing following from the National Forum on Mental Health and Wellbeing in Agriculture the NFF hosted in March.”

With a federal election looming in 2025, Mr Jochinke said collaboration between farmers and political leaders was vital.

“Just take a look at agriculture’s track record. We launched our 2030 roadmap for the sector to reach $100-billion in farm gate output by 2030,” he said.

“In the five years before we released the roadmap the average annual output of the sector was $55-billion. For the five years after the report was launched, it is forecast to average $80-billion.

“The growth of the sector is contributing to Australia’s productivity, competitiveness. We’ve created jobs and locked in a positive future for the nation’s children and grandchildren.

“It is abundantly clear; strategic policy and targeted investment in Australian agriculture delivers benefits to all Australians, no matter where they live or what they do.”

People can read the NFF’s full pre-budget submission at nff.org.au/ wp-content/uploads/2024/11/202526-NFF-Pre-Budget-SubmissionFINAL-.pdf.

INSPIRING: Longerenong College alumnus David Jochinke shared his agricultural journey from farm to Nuffield scholar with Advanced Diploma of Agribusiness Management students, who are nearing the end of their studies. Mr Jochinke, pictured second from right, also spoke about the initiatives he has led with Victorian and national farmers’ federations.

Promised the family farm...

BY DANIELA PAVLOVIC, PRINCIPAL, HARWOOD ANDREWS

Disputes involving promises about the future of the family farm are common and highlight the importance of succession planning.

Comments such as ‘all this will be yours when I’m gone’ or ‘your hard work will pay off one day’ can give rise to claims.

Promissory estoppel is a legal principle which can allow a person to enforce promises made, including casual statements or remarks made over time.

For example, a parent might promise land to a child in return for their continued work or support on the farm.

The child who remains on farm did so based on that promise, giving up other opportunities without adequate financial reward for their work at the time.

If the promise is not fulfilled, for example if the parent leaves the farm to someone else in their will or tries to sell the farm during their lifetime, the child might raise promissory estoppel as a basis to say they should receive the land they were promised.

To establish a promissory estoppel claim, a representation or promise must be made upon, which the other person relies to their detriment. For example, the person does not pursue off-farm work opportunities or works for less than market wages.

The person who makes the promise must be aware the other party relied on the promise, and it would be unconscionable for them to not honour the promise.

Family farm disputes can be complex, costly and cause breakdown of family relationships affecting generations.

Proper succession planning with professional assistance can avoid or reduce the risk of future disputes.

Families are encouraged to engage in a formal succession planning process to document agreements about the future ownership or control of the family farm and any off-farm assets. This may involve a transfer of assets or interests during lifetime, or on death.

A thorough succession plan considers how to manage land, stock, debts and assets critical to the farming enterprise, as well as off-farm assets that may be used to provide for other family members without prejudicing the continued viability of the farming enterprise.

The future needs of the parties and tax effective strategies can all be considered to achieve a positive outcome benefiting the farming operation and family unit.

With the right advice and assistance to guide and document the process, succession planning can be rewarding and should be a key objective for farming and other family agribusinesses.

IMPORTANT MESSAGE:

Farm manager Jono Robinson, pictured with his family, discusses reasons safety should be a top priority for farmers in Birchip Cropping Group’s latest episode of Safety First: What’s the Rush podcast.

What’s the Rush podcast release

Wimmera-based agricultural research organisation Birchip Cropping Group is reminding growers to prioritise their safety with harvest season underway across Australia.

In the latest episode of the Safety First: What’s the Rush podcast, BCG’s Janine Batters interviewed farm manager Jono Robinson, discussing reasons safety should be a top priority for farmers.

“For me personally, I don’t want to see any of my colleagues, my friends, not make it home or go home injured,” Mr Robinson said.

“It’s creating a culture to get each other home safe and look-

ing after each other. It starts at the top. It starts with me. If I’m not doing it, the staff aren’t going to do it … you’ve got to practice what you preach.”

Mr Robinson, who manages the 1400-hectare Warakirri property between Donald and Warracknabeal, said farm safety had flow-on effects.

“Putting safety first has the added benefit of creating efficiencies,” he said.

“If you’re looking after your machines, they’re in better condition.

“Taking the time to induct people thoroughly, teaching them how to use gear and not just rushing them out and throwing

them in a machine, it adds up to efficiencies down the track.

“If you’re rushing around, always in a hurry to get to the next job, you find things break, things go wrong, things get missed and that’s when you lose time – you’re further behind, whereas if you’ve got a good plan in place and it’s organised and safe, you’ll find machines are constantly rolling at a steady speed all day.”

People can listen to the full interview with Mr Robinson by searching for Safety First: What’s the Rush on their podcast host of choice or by visiting bcg.org.au/podcasts.

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CLEARING SALE

A/c Carines Merchandise 12 Golf Course Road, Horsham Vic Friday, December 6, 2024

Starting at 10.30am Registration from 9am

Plant & Equipment

Large pallet forks; Log grabber; Engine crane; Hay forks x 2; Heavy duty alloy ramps; Plant trailer – 2800kg; 450L Fuel pod; 4t Tandem trailer; 4.5t Triaxle tipping trailer; Minos Agri CZ-9-M deep ripper; XCMG N70 7t forklift; XCMG N35

3.5t forklift; 2017 Victory 2.5t forklift Various loader buckets; Stick rake; Multiple earth auger bits; Pallet forks; Dog box;

Workshop Equipment

Chains; Jacks; Shelving & pallet racking; Pallet trolley; Diesel heater; Pressure washer x 2; Power sweeper; Tool boxes; Masonry saw; Power tools; Various workshop tools;

Parts & Accessories

Coolant; Car detergents; Jumper leads; Extension cords; Bearings; Seals; Belts; Rubber matting; Engine oils; Gear oils; Auto electrical parts & tools; Hydraulic fittings; Auto parts; Load straps; Load binders; Air filters; Oil filters; Various tyres;

Office Equipment

Computer screens x 7; 4 Chairs & coffee table; Filing cabinets; Fridge; Coil binders x 2; Office chairs x 4; Microwave; TV; Various printers; Phone system with 4 handsets

Terms: Payment on sale day – cash or cheque only (No EFTPOS) Photo ID required for bidder registration.

Agent Contact: Wayne Driscoll (AWN Horsham) – Ph 0407 525 565

Agent Contact: Mathew McDonald (AWN Horsham) – Ph 0458 873 137

Vendor Contact: Andrew Carine – Ph 0418 504 367

An emotionally driven debate

The live sheep export debate is a very emotionally driven one.

In one corner of the boxing ring are the animal rights activists. In the other, the export companies and farmers who sell their sheep to the trade. Somewhere between the two are all of us.

If you were to believe the Keep the Sheep campaign, the banning of the trade sounds the death knell for the sheep industry in Western Australia.

Last week the Livestock Exporters Council claimed a survey it funded found 76 per cent of survey respondents agreed ‘the benefits of the industry are equal to or outweigh the costs of live export’ – indicating that people can see the need for live exports as part of Australia’s sheep industry.

Livestock Exporters Council chief executive Mark Harvey-Sutton said the survey proves the Albanese government does not have a mandate to shut down the trade.

“What it’s found is that community support for the industry is at its highest levels that has been recorded … and I guess the headline figure that has come from the survey is that 76 per cent of people surveyed believe the benefits of the trade outweigh any risks or costs,” Mr Harvey-Sutton said.

It has to be pointed out the survey was not specifically on the live sheep trade, but all live animal trade, so that would include live cattle.

The survey also showed Australians overwhelmingly signalled they wanted a more balanced accounting of live export issues from the media.

So let’s go to the research and marketing

Country Today

with Libby Price

organisation, Meat and Livestock Australia, for its take on the live export trade.

An MLA funded ACIL ALLEN report states: ‘Over time there has been a decline in live sheep exports nationally and now 99 per cent of live sheep exports are from the Western Australian production system’.

The WA sheep industry is dominated by merinos, and most of those sheep exported are older merino wethers, of little value in the domestic market, which will get more money in the Middle East.

According to MLA, live sheep exports fell from 1.18 million head in 2018 to just over 500,000 in 2022.

GlobalTrends livestock analyst Simon Quilty told Country Today the live trade was now so small as to be of little consequence.

“I don’t think it’s going to have much impact to be honest, and why I say that is because of the shortages of both lambs and sheep over the next two to three years,” Mr Quilty said.

“In actual fact, processors will be going to the west to try and buy and bring back sheep here because they’ll need the throughput … At the moment we’re slaughtering 716,000 sheep and lambs a week in the eastern states. So we sell what was being exported a year, in less than a week.”

Chemical collection campaign

Farmers and agricultural businesses can safely dispose of unwanted or obsolete chemicals under AgSafe’s ChemClear national collection campaign.

Storing outdated or cancelled chemicals – including the most-recently cancelled dimethyl tetrachloroterephthalate, DCPA, also known as dacthal – can pose risks to safety, health and the environment.

People will need to register for the collection before January 31 next year, by visiting www.chemclear.org.au/register-yourchemical.

An inventory will need to be taken, including product name, container size, and the

condition of each item. Chemicals will then need to be registered – they will each be given a reference number and a free-or-fee classification, and storage stickers will be distributed.

Chemicals will need to be stored securely, away from people, animals and potential hazards, until a collection is scheduled for the area. People will be notified of the collection date, location and time, and are asked to transport any chemicals safely, using a ute or truck.

All disposal follows strict Environmental Protection Authority guidelines.

UPSKILL:

Jeremy Kealy returned to work on his family’s 15,000head sheep farm near Edenhope about three years ago and will complete a highperformance weaner course and a diploma of applied agronomy with part of his scholarship.

Investing in young farmers

Edenhope’s Jeremy Kealy is among three Wimmera farmers to be awarded a Young Farmers Upskill and Invest scholarship, to further their careers in their chosen fields.

Mr Kealy, along with Tom Hewitt and Mitchell McCrow, are three of 16 farmers statewide to receive up to $10,000, made up of up to $5000 towards study, and up to $5000 to invest in putting new skills into practice, with professional development, business planning or other on-farm activities.

Mr Kealy, 31, returned to work on his family’s 15,000-head sheep farm near Edenhope about three years ago.

He will complete a high-performance weaner course and a diploma of applied agronomy, and will purchase XR 5000 scales to provide a digital read out of livestock weight, draft on the animal’s weight parameters and record data using the electronic identification tag in the sheep.

Mr Kealy said he has previously completed a lifetime ewe management course, among other workshops and short courses.

“The lifetime ewe course runs for 12 months over the cycle of

the ewe – getting her in lamb and then following her while she’s lactating, and then weaning, and getting her in lamb again the following season,” he said.

“Lifetime ewe management is a prerequisite to do the next course, which is the high performance weaners course.

“It follows the lamb, from feeding, then as a weaner, to getting it ready to join the mob as a one-year-old or one-and-ahalf-year-old.”

Mr Kealy said the weaner course would help him improve his practices in sheep health and management.

“It’ll help me run bigger mobs in a better way, and hopefully reduce mortality on the farm,” he said.

“It’s definitely a bonus to be able to do the course – I would have done it one day, but this means I can do it now.”

Since the beginning of the scholarship program in 2015, the Agriculture Minister has awarded 133 young farmers, aged from 18 to 35 years, scholarships.

This year’s were presented at Parliament House.

Mr Hewitt, who runs a progressive cropping business in the Wimmera with his father

and brother, will complete a certificate in content creation and social media in agriculture. His scholarship will enable him to purchase camera equipment and editing software to generate positive agriculture content to help promote the industry and break down barriers between the farmer and the end user.

Mr McCrow will complete lifetime ewe and farm owners academy take control programs, which will allow him to build his knowledge to confidently take over the family farm and build a productive sheep program.

Mr Kealy said he was grateful to the presentation event’s organisers.

“I’m not just thankful for the scholarship, but also for being able to meet other people from different fields, such as beef producers and broadacre farmers,” he said.

“It was good to meet others in the same age bracket all doing similar stuff but in different fields.

“After the tough season we’ve had, everyone’s a bit flat, it was just nice to be able to go and network with other young, enthusiastic, like-minded people.” – Bronwyn Hastings

MINIMISE YOUR DOWNTIME

Mazda rethink

Mazda Australia will refocus its intentions with the CX60 midsize SUV in 2025, with a revised range including more affordable models to appeal to more customers.

This reappraisal of the pricing could essentially be seen as an admission that the brand had moved too far upwards for the CX-60 range when it launched 18 months ago.

Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi said the brand would introduce the ‘updated Mazda CX60’ by mid-2025.

“It’s a significant change that reflects our aim of continuous improvement, and its timing is in line with Mazda’s usual policy of implementing regular, meaningful model revisions, given the vehicle has been in

the market for more than 18 months,” he said.

“Two new grades in the form of an entry level ‘Pure’ and a ‘Touring’ variant is planned to be added to the range, while Evolve and GT models gain the vision technology package content.

“And in response to customer feedback, we will have updates to the suspension, steering and transmission in line with those made to the Mazda CX-80.”

For the unaware, Mazda introduced the CX-60 and then rolled out a running change to all new CX-60s, with the choice of a retrofit adjustment for existing customers for their suspension and transmission calibration.

Now there’s yet another change in the works, with further enhancements to the ride, handling and transmission

behaviour of the brand’s in-house developed, torque-converter-less eightspeed transmission.

Alistair Doak, head of marketing for Mazda Australia, said the changes were considered significant for the scope of the program, even though ‘visually, there is no change’.

“The transmission controls have been modified, the ‘brains controller’ having been updated again,” he said.

“But if you ask Shibata-san, the head of the program, he would call it the equivalent of a facelift, because they are making significant changes to the suspension in this case.

“In other cases, it can be design, it could be something else, but in their sense, there is enough engineering change for them to say this is an updated model – so we’ll have, internally, a new model code, as op-

posed to just a running change that we changed one thing and that’s all, and it is a global change.”

As for changes to the range and the offering for buyers, Mr Bhindi would not disclose the exact details but made it clear the brand intends to be more aggressive with the line-up when the revised model hits Australian shores.

“Now, it’s too early to talk about pricing yet, but our current driveaway pricing offers on CX-60 have resulted in a 20 per cent uplift in sales,” he said of the recent drive-away deals of $59,990 for the current entry-level Evolve grade.

“So, you can be confident the 2025 model’s value proposition will be compelling and aligned closely to CX-80.”

Mr Bhindi hinted a sub-$50,000 price for the entry-level five-seat CX-

60, as the new three-row CX-80 Pure starts from just under $55,000 before on-roads.

In the CX-80, the Pure grade is only available with the six-cylinder petrol engine known as G40e, but it has an eight-speed automatic transmission and a rear-biased all-wheel drive system.

When asked if Mazda would consider an even cheaper rear-wheel drive version of the base model Pure CX60, Mr Bhindi said such a model was not on offer for the Australian market. It is yet to be confirmed if there are any changes to the powertrains for the CX-60, but if there is not, the brand will continue to offer the G40e six-cylinder petrol, D50e six-cylinder diesel and P50e plug-in hybrid petrol four-cylinder model. – Matt Campbell

MG heading in a new direction

Moving on up appears to be the new credo at MG Motor Australia as, according to a number of its executives, the SAICowned car-maker transitions from being price-led to a value-led brand that is pursuing both hybrid and fully electric car buyers with a tempting selection of current and forthcoming ‘electrified’ vehicles.

As usual, there is even talk of a onetonne ute among company executives, although how this squares with SAIC stablemate’s T60 and upcoming Terron 9 dual-cabs remains to be seen.

The thrust of the move upmarket appears to be centred on not only price but other aspects of buying an MG, such as its industry leading warranty, technology and engineering improvements, customer enticements and an extensive local dealer network.

Reading between the lines, MG’s refocus likely translates into slicker, higher-priced cars which, aside from the six-figure Cyberster sportscar, is clear from MG’s last two new mainstream model launches.

Both the MG HS medium SUV and the ZS – that lobbed in Hybrid+ form last week – represent a quantum leap compared to their predecessors, and also bear higher prices.

Interested parties might ask if the change will be to the detriment of sales volumes as MG has hewn a slice

of the local new car pie through sharp pricing and would be well aware of marketing rule 101: Never relinquish market share as it is hard to get back.

The upmarket shift comes after MG achieved record sales of its heavily discounted MG 4 electric small hatch in October that knocked off Tesla’s combined Model 3 and Model Y volume to become overall BEV sales leader for the month and coming within a few hundred units of Toyota’s small car market leader, the Corolla.

A circa $31,000 drive-away price

in October for an MG 4 Excite 51 got close to the as-yet un-breached psychological $30,000 BEV barrier, but one or two MG Motor Australia executives laughed off the prospect of being the first manufacturer to achieve that milestone Down Under.

Recently introduced small price hikes for the still-affordable little BEV will likely tweak competitor interest as they note what happens on sales charts over coming months.

MG Motor Australia chief executive Peter Ciao added emphasis to chang-

Hype builds for electric Macan

Porsche is confident the shift to allelectric power for its top-selling Macan model is a winning move, citing strong interest for what it believes is the best electric SUV on the market.

While pricing was announced earlier this year, as well as the release of key specifications, the model is now just weeks away from its dealership debut in December.

Porsche vice-president product line Macan, Jorg Kerner, said he believed the model would be a best-seller.

“I think it’s the best car in this segment, it’s the sportiest car in the segment … and much better than the combustion car,” he said.

“It’s so much better in every respect and therefore as soon as, let’s say, the more sceptical customer gets into this

car and has the chance to drive it –we’re pretty sure that will convince them.”

Porsche has not provided specific order volumes, but did hint at stronger-than-expected interest in the new model with the higher trim grades favoured by early adopters.

The Macan aims to attract a more mainstream audience – competing with electric SUVs from other luxury brands.

It is worth noting, however, Porsche does not appear to be going after the mass market based on pricing, with the similarly quick Tesla Model Y Performance – close on paper to the Macan 4S – priced significantly lower, suggesting the Macan is more likely to compete with premium models like

the Audi SQ8 e-tron, Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV, BMW iX and Polestar 4. There is, as it stands, no true midsize electric SUV competitor to the all-out Macan Turbo, which produces a dizzying 470kW-1130Nm, at least until Audi rolls out its next-generation models, which will share the PPE underpinnings of the Macan.

Porsche does not appear concerned about Australia’s declining EV sales either, reiterating the Macan was a premium model that offered a higher performance experience than other luxury options, while also bringing a ground-up replacement for the decade-old, first-generation model –of which the brand sold 2925 last year accounting for about half of the brand’s local sales.

A new three-year plan heralds the end of Chinese-owned MG’s days as a price-led brand.

ing the company’s direction, saying the company had ‘all the tech solutions, we have the ability and we can do everything’.

“MG is based on best price and quality and backs this up with the industry’s best warranty at 10 years/250,000km, almost twice as good as some of the competition,” he said.

“But our new focus will be on best value.

“MG offers the best price and now the best product, presenting the new ZS Hybrid+.

“It is the bridge for family buyers to MG with other hybrids here soon including the HS PHEV and a sevenseat SUV, both of which will be gamechangers for MG.

“We consider hybrid is the future based on fuel efficiency and performance and MG provides all the solutions – PHEV, HEV, BEV and ICE.

“We currently have seven models but now we are going to the next phase following our three year plan.”

In relation to a one-tonne utility, Mr Ciao said hopefully it would not take too long to be fully tested.

And on yet another topic, low ANCAP ratings for the MG3, he said, ‘we are making changes to the MG3 at the moment prioritising safety improvements that are both structural and software based’.

MG Motor Australia chief commercial officer Giles Belcher said the brand was undergoing a ‘massive leap forward’.

“We are moving from being priceled to being value-led,” he said, adding the company would train the dealer network to explain the changes to buyers.

“Once the buyer drives one of our cars they will see the value,” he said.

“We fully intend to maintain the current ZS sales rate of about 18,000 units year-to-date, despite the price rise.”

– Peter Barnwell

The entire Porsche Macan range is available for order now, but will reach all Porsche Centres across the country on December 7.

pUZZles

Quick Workout

Quick Crossword

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

bmpuzzles Distributed by Knight Features

on this Day

From The Weekly Advertiser archives: December 2, 2004 –Bendigo Bank community and alliance general manager Russell Jenkins rode the 20 kilometres between Willaura and Lake Bolac, when the Willaura Lake Bolac Community Bank branches were officially opened. Mr Jenkins kept the tradition of cycling between the last recently opened branch and the next since opening the first community bank branch at Minyip and Rupanyup.

10 years ago: November 26, 2014

An education precinct was on the cards if the Liberal-Nationals Coalition was returned to power in the following weekend’s election. The $8-million overhaul would see Warracknabeal’s primary, secondary and special schools co-locate, as well as the construction of new staff and administration facilities.

Five years ago: November 27, 2019 Entrepreneur and philanthropist Geoff Handbury died at his Hamilton home at the age of 94. Mr Handbury and his late wife Helen were dedicated champions for many communities. They leave a legacy of ongoing services in cities including Horsham, Ararat, Hamilton, Warrnambool and Albury, and their regions, in health, education, the arts, entertainment, youth, and Landcare.

One year ago: November 29, 2023

More than 50 millimetres of rain fell at Horsham across two days, Friday and Saturday, causing flash flooding. Almost 30mm was recorded at Ararat, 57mm at Edenhope, and 77mm at Nhill. VICSES units responded to 17 requests for assistance across the Wimmera from the Wednesday to the Saturday.

taKe a breaK

yoUr lUCKy stars With sarah KUlKens

Australia’s Trusted Psychic Family

FOR THE WEEK NOVEMBER 30 TO DECEMBER 6

ARIES (March 21 - April 20)

Lucky Colour: Blue; Lucky Day: Friday; Racing Numbers: 7, 8, 9, 3; Lotto Numbers: 4, 12, 23, 24, 35, 41

1. Who did actor Demi Moore divorce on this day in 2013 after eight years of marriage, citing irreconcilable differences?

2. Cherries come from which variety of plant?

3. Talk to any cropping farmer and they will eventually discuss the various colours in their soil. Soil often takes on a red colour as we travel into the Mallee. What causes this?

4. Which capital city is served by Arlanda airport?

5. Pecorino di Filiano is a firm cheese made from what kind of milk?

6. In the boyband often abbreviated to NKOTB, what does the ‘B’ stand for?

7. What percentage of people are left-handed?

8. Which film urges people to ‘Carpe diem – seize the day, boys. Make your lives extraordinary.’?

9. According to Roald Dahl’s book, who is the Champion of the World?

10. Burrum is a farming locality near what Wimmera centre?

Approximately 10 per cent. 8. Dead Poets Society. 9. Danny. 10. Rupanyup.

80 million records worldwide in the late 1980s and early 1990s. They are often credited for paving the way for other boybands such as Take That, Backstreet Boys and NSYNC. The group received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2014. 7.

Answers: 1. Ashton Kutcher, best known for his role on -televi sion’s ‘That ‘70s Show’. 2. Rose. 3. Oxidising iron in soil – or simply, rust. 4. Stockholm. 5. Sheep milk. 6. Block. New Kids on the Block – brothers Jonathan and Jordan Knight, Joey McIntyre, Donnie Wahlberg and Danny Wood – sold more than

in

Our office is at 2 Stawell Road, Horsham. Mail: PO Box 606, Horsham 3402. Telephone: 5382 1351

Website: www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au Email: weeklyadvertiser@team.aceradio.com.au For classified advertisements: 5382 1351 – email: horsham@aceradio.com.au

Advertising 5382 1351: Mark Sulic: marks@team.aceradio.com.au;

Lily Olver: lolver@aceradio.com.au Newsroom 5382 1351: Lauren Henry: lhenry@aceradio.com.au; Bronwyn Hastings: bhastings@aceradio.com.au; Georgia

georgiab@team.aceradio.com.au The

Romantic opportunities could arise unexpectedly, especially if you’re single. Expect deep conversations to strengthen your bond if you’re already in a relationship. Be careful not to overindulge in social activities, as financial responsibilities require attention. With Mercury’s influence, travelling could be risky, so plan carefully and avoid unnecessary adventures. By mid-month, you’ll feel confidence in your career, and new professional prospects will present themselves.

TAURUS (April 21 - May 20)

Lucky Colour: Red; Lucky Day: Wednesday; Racing Numbers: 7, 8, 9, 3; Lotto Numbers: 1, 6, 8, 23, 35, 22

It’s a time to avoid mixing business with pleasure, as the lines between the two may blur. Ongoing legal matters will likely come to a favourable conclusion, giving you peace of mind. Relationships are in a positive light, with love and romance playing a central role. However, caution is advised in confrontations, especially with those close to you. Career-wise, you’ll feel a boost in creativity and energy, which will help you achieve your long-term goals.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)

Lucky Colour: Silver; Lucky Day: Saturday; Racing Numbers: 6, 3, 4, 6; Lotto Numbers: 3, 5, 45, 13, 39, 40

Whether single or attached, your charm will be at an all-time high, and you’ll draw others to you effortlessly. Career-wise, new opportunities or changes may come to the fore, bringing excitement and uncertainty. While things may seem chaotic sometimes, trust that these shifts lead you toward a more fulfilling path. Be mindful of gossip or hearsay at work – not everything you hear will be accurate.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22)

Lucky Colour: Orange; Lucky Day: Tuesday; Racing Numbers: 7, 3, 1, 5; Lotto Numbers: 6, 12, 24, 34, 45, 11

Your financial situation is looking up, with a potential windfall or opportunity to save more money. Travel is highlighted, and a short trip could bring romance or reconnection with old friends. Career opportunities may present themselves, but don’t rush into decisions. Take time to weigh your options and consider the long-term benefits.

LEO (July 23 - August 22)

Lucky Colour: Green; Lucky Day: Monday; Racing Numbers: 9, 7, 6, 4; Lotto Numbers: 9, 4, 5, 45, 33, 21

You’ll be in the spotlight more socially and professionally than usual. This is a fantastic time to network and make new connections that can help you advance your career or personal goals. Financially, things look good, and you may receive an unexpected bonus or opportunity to increase your income. Romance is also on the cards, particularly around the middle of the month, so single Leos should be open to new possibilities.

VIRGO (August 23 - September 23)

Lucky Colour: Lilac; Lucky Day: Monday; Racing Numbers: 6, 7, 3, 4; Lotto Numbers: 2, 13, 24, 34, 41, 11

You’ve been working hard, and now is the time to reap the rewards of your efforts. Travel opportunities may arise, and they will likely be fruitful in more ways than one. Whether a work trip or a personal journey, you’ll gain new insights and make valuable connections. Financially, you’re entering a lucky period, but be mindful of overspending on unnecessary items.

LIBRA (September 24 - October 23)

Lucky Colour: Cream; Lucky Day: Wednesday; Racing Numbers: 8, 9, 5, 4; Lotto Numbers: 1, 14, 23, 34, 42, 33

The planetary alignments suggest that you’ll be faced with choices that will impact your future direction, so take your time to weigh your options carefully. Your charm will be irresistible on the romantic front, making it a perfect time for new connections or deepening existing relationships. Financial luck is on the horizon, but keep your spending in check.

SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22)

Lucky Colour: Violet; Lucky Day: Tuesday; Racing Numbers: 2, 4, 3, 7; Lotto Numbers: 2, 4, 12, 23, 31, 22

You’ll be called upon to support friends or family in need, and your loyalty will be appreciated. Financially, things are looking up, and a new opportunity to increase your income may present itself. Expect deeper connections and more meaningful conversations with your partner in your love life. A chance encounter could lead to a passionate romance if you’re single. Your health will improve as you focus on balancing your emotional and physical well-being.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 20)

Lucky Colour: Green; Lucky Day: Monday; Racing Numbers: 8, 9, 3, 4; Lotto Numbers: 5, 12, 23, 34, 45

Financial luck is on your side, and you’ll likely see an increase in income or savings. This is also an excellent time for travel, and any journeys you undertake will bring you joy and a sense of security. In your love life, things are improving, and past problems with family or relationships will finally be resolved. Your social life will be bustling, with opportunities to reconnect with old friends or make new ones.

CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19)

Lucky Colour: Blue; Lucky Day: Tuesday; Racing Numbers: 8, 4, 5, 6; Lotto Numbers: 1, 13, 24, 34, 42, 22

A career boost is on the horizon, and those in positions of authority will recognise your hard work. Family affairs are also highlighted, with good news likely to come from a close relative. In your love life, expect things to heat up, whether single or in a relationship. Financially, you’ll find yourself in a stable position with growth opportunities.

AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 19)

Lucky Colour: Red; Lucky Day: Friday; Racing Numbers: 4, 6, 2; Lotto Numbers: 1, 3, 12, 24, 34, 45

You may be asked to take on new responsibilities, but don’t worry – these will lead to greater rewards in the future. Financially, you’ll start seeing improvements, but keeping your spending in check is essential. In love, a surprise event may spark a new connection or reignite the passion in an existing relationship. Travel plans will be exciting, but double-check the details before setting off.

PISCES (February 20 - March 20)

Lucky Colour: Silver; Lucky Day: Wednesday; Racing Numbers: 7, 8, 3, 4; Lotto Numbers: 2, 13, 23, 34, 41, 11

d e f g h i

You’ll be surrounded by friends and loved ones, and your charm will draw others to you. An unexpected opportunity may arise in your career, offering the chance to step into a new role or take on a new project. Financially, things are looking up, and you’ll have the opportunity to increase your income. As the month progresses, you’ll feel renewed energy to take care of your health.

Classifieds

BROWN,

Henry Joseph

Passed away on November 23, 2024 aged 78 years.

Dearly loved husband of Kath (dec).

Loving father and father in law of Tracey & Ian; Colleen; Nicole & Gordon; Damien & Alisa; and Katie.

Adored Pa to Anthony, Georgina and Rebecca; Christian and Theagan; Michael and Natalie; Ethan, Aydin and Caitlyn.

Reunited with Mum

DART, Margaret Alice

10-5-1929 to 18-11-2024

Dearly loved wife of Les (dec).

Passed away peacefully surrounded by her family

A chapter completed

A page is turned

A life well lived

A rest well earned

No longer in our lives to share

But in our hearts you’ll always be there

Much loved Mother, Grandma & GG of Russell, Alison, Nathan, Tracy, Hamish, Grace, Tim, Lindsay, Lauren, David, Jack and Ella; Ian, Marion, Sarah, Kent, Jasper, Isla, Katie, Craig and Bonnie; Diane, Peter, Luke, Adam, Karl, Isabella, Manny and Levi.

Safely In God’s Care

DART (nee Lang), Margaret Alice of Warracknabeal on November 18, 2024

Loved wife of Les (dec).

Loved mother and motherin-law of Russell & Alison, Ian & Marion, Diane & Peter & a loved grandma & great grandma to their families.

JAGGER, Donald Thomas

04.04.1941 – 23.11.2024

Aged 83 years

Passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones at Wimmera Base Hospital.

Loving husband of Doreen (dec)

Father of Russell, Christine & Matthew.

Adored poppy of 9 grandchildren.

“In the Lords’ hands.”

Please see next week’s edition for Funeral details.

Horsham & District

Funerals

Dylan & Amity Hartwich 5382 1149

HUTCHINS

(nee Schwedes), Heather Suzanne

29 September 195221 November 2024

Much loved wife of John, Mother and mother-in-law of Nyree and Mathew, Blair and Vic and grandma to Abigail and Ted.

Heather’s funeral service will be held at 11am Friday 29 November at the Dimboola Uniting Church with internment to follow at the Dimboola Cemetery.

Given Heather’s passion for cycling, donations to The Amy Gillett Foundation would be preferred in lieu of flowers. Active in God’s care.

Emiley & Mathew Bone Nhill, Dimboola & Kaniva District Funerals 0419 008 464

NEWTON, Patricia Joan ‘Pat’ Of Rainbow on November 18, 2024

Loved wife of Don (dec).

Loved mother of Les, Russell and their families.

READING,

Ronald Graham

30-10-1933 to 23-11-2024

Dearly loved husband of Dawn.

Father to Joanne, Debbie & Belinda.

Father-in-law to Bill Kemp. Grandfather to 6 grandchildren & 6 great grandchildren.

My Darling at peace.

It was Ron’s wish that he be privately cremated.

Horsham & District Funerals

Dylan & Amity Hartwich 5382 1149

Funeral Notices

BROWN, Henry Joseph

The Funeral of Henry Joseph Brown will leave the Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Horsham on Tuesday, 3 December 2024 after a service commencing at 10.30am for the Horsham Lawn Cemetery. The service may also be viewed online at www.youtube. com@horshamlutheran churchaustr7146

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter

DART (nee Lang), Margaret Alice

The funeral of Mrs Margaret Alice Dart will leave the Anglican Church Warracknabeal on Monday, December 2, 2024 after a service commencing at 10am for the Warracknabeal Lawn Cemetery.

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

MARSHMAN

The funeral of Mrs Norma Marshman will leave the Brim Sports Centre on Saturday, November 30, 2024 after a service commencing at 10.30am for the Brim Cemetery.

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

NEWTON, Patricia Joan

A graveside service for Mrs Patricia Joan “Pat” Newton will be held at the Rainbow Lawn Cemetery on Friday, November 29, 2024 commencing at 11am.

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

REYNOLDS, Simon Ashley

30-1-74 to 30-11-16

It’s not what we write It’s not what we say It’s how we all miss you in our own special ways Love Mum and families

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

Beeamma White, Australian White Stud purebred rams, private sale on farm, BRUC, ACC, OJD, VAC, ewes available, Elders Alan Thompson 0427849779, Rod Donnell (08) 87582095

Birds for sale , princess parrots, cockatiels and bourkes, all colours Ph 0408535515 Stawell

Bristlenose catfish , great tank cleaners $5ea until sold out Ph 0474159010 after 6.30pm

Budgies , assorted colours $10 each Ph 0417533579

Budgies , pastel and standards $10 each Ph 0428010996 Horsham

German (Aust) Koolie pups, 2 red male pup, 1 red speckled male pup, all vaccinated / microchipped, microchip# 956000017131984/1718 1902/17166017, source# MB258735, bred to work $500 Ph P Brown 53547632 or 0438522996 Ararat

Pair of Turks ready to breed, scarlet chested dilute/scarlet chested dilute opaline, incl new nest and carry box, $350 Ph 0492486058 Dimboola Pembroke Corgi Pups, male & females, source# 262769, microchip 953010006873021, 953010006873006, 953010006857644 Ph 0400058264

Roosters, ducks and guinea fowl wanted to buy Ph 0469740723

Very pretty & young budgies, assorted colours, ready to go $10 each Ph 0423182267

Working Kelpie pups , 2m, 1f, dob 17/6/24, microchip# 9781420001291 03//937/1520/1099 source# MB238602 $550 plus Gst Ph Tim 0491895301

2004 Avan Aliner 1D, one owner, $10,500 Ph 0407040315

2009 Jayco Stirling Expander , immaculate cond, front club lounge, slide out q/bed, full ensuite, roll out awning and full annex $45,000ono Ph 0428913307

2013 Jayco Starcraft, 21’, one owner, very little use, as new, many added extras $42,000 Ph 0427909230

2013 Jurgens Lunagzer J24, 6.3m/21’, J2403, 2 berth, shower/toilet, air con, diesel heater, always shedded, VGC $38,500 Ph 0418350445

2016 New Age Desert Rose, full off-road built tough, separate shower/toilet, big fridge, lots of storage inside and out, solar power, loads of extras, diesel heater, full annexe, 20’ plus draw bar, EC, $70,000 neg Ph 0409257256

Portable cot as new $40, 3 wheel pusher $25, stroller $15, baby/child car seat $25 Ph 0400085025

1991 Jayco Classique single axle poptop 16ft, air conditioner, annex, double bed, 77407B, Dimboola, $5500 Ph 0490364260

1998 Jayco Westport, full annexe, a/c, oven, microwave, always shedded, many extras $18,000ono Ph 0419514118

Animals & Accessories

2016 Supreme Spirit Limited

Ed 11, exterior black and white, 24’6”, long full front wardrobe, cafe style kitchen, big ensuite toilet, shower, 5kg washing machine, 4 brand new tyres L/T, diesel heater, big fridge, lots of cupboards, annexes winter and summer solar power, 2 x 120 watt batteries plus more, medical reason for selling top unit

$70,000neg Ph 0427911765 or 0477138363

2017 Ezytrail Stirling, excellent condition, forward folding hard floor, full annex, 600w inverter, TV, 80lt

WACO fridge, memory foam mattress topper, always stored undercover, $18,500 ono Ph 0439022870

2022 Goldfields camper trailer as new, used once, loads of extras $20,000 Ph 0438722796

CUB Escape camper, 2020, Australian made, off road camper that will go anywhere, queen size bed, all canvas awnings, very good condition

$24,800 Ph 0490532715

Galaxy Scenic caravan , 2004, 19’, EC, shower on outside $24,000ono Ph 0400603022

Majestic Knight Caravan 10/2013, queen bed, ensuite, full annex, free camp ready, many extras, $45,000 Ph 0418506271

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

Prattline Fremont pop-top 17’, dual axle, island bed, A/C, solar, 2 deep cycle batteries & inverter, water tank with 12V pump, full annexe, registered, needs new pop-top struts, $4900 Ph Dan 0447323151

REDUCED 2006 Concept

Ascot pop-top, immac cond, shedded, low kms, new full annexe, R33763 $18,500 Ph Ray 0413445347

REDUCED 2018 Dingo

Ultimate Camper , heavy duty top of the line off-road trailer including boat rack, fully enclosed annexe including ensuite, lots of storage, built-in instant gas hot water to sink and shower, dual AGM batteries and built-in inverter and charger, innerspring mattress and ability to make up second double bed, two new off-road tyres, VGC, Y76535 $16,500ono Ph 0407360212

REDUCED Isuzu Outback

Express Motorhome for sale, 2 seater, sleeps 3, 4ltr diesel engine, solar panels, auto, diesel, fridge, tv, shower, toilet, stove and lots more, have to see to believe, can drive on normal car licence, 3.1m long, RWC, $40,000 with 12mth rego and RWC Ph Phillip 0428173606 or Susan and ask for Phillp 0458727370 Horsham

REDUCED MDC Highside

Cruiser 2019, 3 Ton McHitch, 110L fridge, excellent condition $11,500 Ph 0493394223

Royal Flair caravan 2012, 20ft, full ensuite, 3 way fridge, electric/gas hot water, TV, diesel heater, solar panel, 2 batteries, washing machine, A/C, $38,000 for more information call Des 0428915255

Toyota Coaster camper , 2 seater, diesel heater, 1hz motor, solar and 12v awning much more $40,000 Ph 0418325662

1997 Hercules Tipper

$76,000 plus Gst Ph 0428386295

2022 Mahindra 6110, 6 HP, front end loader, 4 in 1 bucket, FWA, a/c cab, balance of new warranty, 368 hrs on clock

$45,800 Ph 0428349401

CAT , 955 K traxcavator DROTT, ROPS, strong double ripper, GP bucket, D330T motor $35,000ono plus Gst Ph 0400603022

Cox ride on lawn mower $900 Ph 0407285097

New Holland T8 360, 2250 hrs, one owner, non- smoker, never pulled an air-seeder, add blue switched off, linkage, UHF radio, auto steer ready, 50km box, excellent condition, upgraded to articulated, $270,000ono plus Gst $297,000 inc GST Ph 0418504408

REDUCED Versatile 555 Tractor, good working order

$15,000 ono Ph 0493394223

Tradesman trailer, off road

$4500 Ph 0407285097

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

Carryall 6’ x 3’, suit type 1 + 3 3PL $150 Ph 0429491426

Archery equipment , 3 compound bows, 35 pound youth bow, 60 pound adult bow, 16 wheeler antique, 1 45 pound Samic longbow, arrows, tool boxes, apres and fletching jig $500 Ph 0429164375

Camping equipment, 2 dome tents, 10 man and 4 man, sleeping chair tent, 3 roll up tables, shower tent, 2 gas stoves, 4 spare bottles, camp kitchen, blow up q/bed $450 Ph 0429164375

Craftsmen ZTS700 ride-on zero-turn mower, good condition, 21 hp engine, reconditioned spindle and deck, many hours left in this machine $2850 Ph Eddy 0428922335

0419359501

2 hand made Kennett step ladders, 4.2m high Ph 0419359501

28 tonne bin $5500 plus Gst Ph 0428857312

3 tonne block and tackle

$100, 500 gallon ex fuel tank

$100, Coolgardie safe $100, Briggs and Stratton fire fighter done little work no hoses

$250, Elec handpiece sheep or horse clippers $75, Ute crate, 6x4 tub tight $50, Bailey extension ladder 5.3 extends to 6.3 $200, Mobile co rotary hoe Briggs motor

Darche Panorama 2 with roof top tent $1000, Darche Eclipse 270 awning, drivers side, plus side walls $600 Ph 0428506423

Exercise treadmill, Tempo, VGC $200 Ph 0427518053

Fuel tank, 1000ltrs $200 Ph 0419389693

Hot potato mobile van , bought new 2018, never used $980 ono Ph 0432544164

Kuvings whole slow juicer, very good condition, no further use $300 Ph 0408823136

Large collection of Arnott & Anzac tins, old and new, 5 antique plough seats, corner TV cabinet, all negotiable Ph 0427857510

Moving sale , pine bookshelves $40, large green and gray rug $70, round dining table with 4 velvet chairs $340, bookshelves $100, TV cabinet $150 Ph 53824788

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

Rare 1895 Furphy tank, both casts are in good condition

$6000 Ph 0428519879

REDUCED Pair of directors chairs with side tables new $100 Ph 0409799375

Sherwell PTO bin $1200 Ph 0428857312

Shipping Containers , two 40’ high-cube containers, located Haven $8000 pair Ph 0422426377

Spin bike $250 Ph 0428506423

Sunwagon Food Trailer , fully equipped for electric and gas cooking $16,500 Ph 0437581171

Tradies Trailer enclosed , containing shelving storage, power points $680 ono Ph 0432544164

Wagner fine finish spray gun Ph 0419359501

Yamaha Inverter Generator, EF2800i, never used, $1500 Ph 0474099355

Matching tallboy and dresser $200 Ph 0428506423

REDUCED 1 Bridgestone

Turanza Tyre , R35 55 R17, done 10,000kms $30 Ph0428504558

REDUCED 4KW 240V Generator, gauges and trolley $550 Ph 0428504558

REDUCED Firescreen , 1300mm opening, 1700mm including wings, plus tool set, all in EC $150 Ph 0408504633

Mattress $250, single bed blackwood $250, as new Ph

reg GG970, exp 18 Sep 2024, 30Hp, 2S Mercury motor, cover and canopy,

trailer zeg U57972, exp 18 Sep 2024 all in very good condition $8250 Ph 0429924704

3.7 m boat and cover , QL624, an aussie made trailer P83061, Yamaha 15 HP motor, near new $4000 Ph 53582560

3.7m stacer aluminium 15HP Yamaha galvanised trailer and cover $3000 Ph 0427981501

4.0m Stessl Aluminium

Runabout , on galvanised trailer, 25HP evinrude outboard motor, electric trolling motor, not used over 2 years, trailer reg V82175, boat reg DT917, serial # 09185405, $4000 Ph 0437899398

aluminium fold up boat trailer, EC, 50kg tare, GTM 250kg, $1650 Ph 0428990602

Shoprider Allrounder mobility scooter, 2yrs old, EC, hard canopy, weather proof fittings $4200 Ph 0419633821 Dimboola

Trek Bravo mobility scooter, new battery $1000, Freedom forearm walker $250, wheelchair $150 Ph 0437600095

0423967449

2001 Savage 418 Kestrel SF,

dunbier gal

BoCam

Walker , 210kg, wider than normal, GC $220 Ph

2020 Harley Low Rider 107, FXLR 1745 cc, heaps of extras, EC, rego 3 monthly basis, 27,270 kms, 2K4ZJ $20,000 Ph 0409590596

BMW K1200 RS, 2010 model, comes with panniers, top box, reg til Aug, RW, BY136 $4800ono Ph 0419508310 Stawell area

BMW R1100 RT, EC, reg till 5/25, 123k kms, YD865 $4600 Ph 0409954491

REDUCED BMW RT1200

Solo, 2007, Ex SA Police, GO, HGR, EWS, CC, RW cond, unregistered, service manuals $3000 Ph 0428154961

Ladder rack, Ozrax, suit Hilux $200 Ph 0419359501

1987 XF Falcon sedan S pack, manual, 5 speed gearbox, power steering. 181,000km, eng JG23HE97665C, $2500 Ph 0428501109

Ford XA 1972 era Panel

Van with rust $1500 neg Ph 0428501109

Ford XF Wagon ,1985 6 cylinder $1000 Ph 0428501109

REDUCED 2005 Commodore Sedan, 6 months rego, good order, 325,000kms, $2200 Ph 0407911884

1990 Nissan Patrol GQ

4.2petrol, 12months rego, 654000km, new tyres, JN1OWGY6OA0020221, 1YI5EW $10,000 neg Ph 0428501109

2001 Fairlane Ghia, AU11 series, meteorite colour, QFQ527 $3250 Ph53503220

2005 Toyota Corolla

Ascent, auto, EC, second owner, RWC, 4 new tyres, 107,000kms, UGX252 $7500 Ph 0429963559

2006 Nissan Navara 4WD , diesel, dual cab, manual, bull bar, vin# JMICNUD22A0050448, RWC, 200,000km, $8500ono Ph 0419821563

2012 Holden Cruze 2.0 ltr , diesel, auto, white, tidy condition, 163,000 kms, 1FG4PY $4250 Ph 0427957243

2015 Nissan Navara, bbar, lbar, snkl, rrak, canopy, T-bar, ebooks, dbats, abags, 6spd man, 9mths reg, RWC, only 118,000kms, ADP699 $23,990

Ph 0427423609

2013 Jeep Compass , reg serviced, suit first car buyer, reg til 7/25, 102,000kms

1PG7RK $8900ono Ph Peter 0428130555

Honda Civic , 1994, great condition with RWC, automatic & aircon, colour black, Vtech motor, vin JHME6548005203141

$10,000 Ph 0428501109

Mercedes S 350, silver, full service history, top of the range, 250,000kms ZIC400 $7500 Ph 0427828420

2004 VY SS Commodore, collectors item, black, RWC, immaculate cond, YKW598

$20,000ono Ph 0400603022

2007 BMW 650i Coupe, 4.8 V8, auto,197,000 kms, reg Jan 2025 and RWC $10,500 Ph 0490364260

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They make take our lives, but they’ll never take our freedom.” Stirring words

the

Braveheart that have become well known. These words indicate that in life, freedom is

rhetoric that can aid a person or group in staying sane in a world fraught with burdens, crime, and

of events, conditions, or people we have no control over, enslave our minds often to the point

despairing and fearful for our future, our children’s future.

To those who follow Christ, that fraught, fear filled world becomes less frightening when belief, hope and faith in Christ comes into their lives. Of all the religions or belief systems in the world, the God of the Bible is the only god who willingly became, and lived, as a human being and offered Himself up as a sacrifice to free all mankind from the things of this world that hold mankind physically and emotionally down. There often is not much physical change visible in a follower’s life, but the emotional and spiritual side of belief in Christ gives freedom from fear and brings peace, joy, love, contentment, and a sound mind.

Follower’s lives may be persecuted and unjustly end, but their freedom will grow into heavenly eternity while they hold close to the promise of a saving Christ.

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.

Leonne

Carman. City Heart Church of Christ - Stawell

The position will also include Customer Service and general office administrative tasks.

The applicant will have excellent communication skills, organisational and administrative skills. They will be able to work to timelines and be able to work independently and as part of a team.

They will also have high level of computer skills and be social media proficient.

The application must address the Key Selection Criteria.

The position is a permanent part time role.

• 12hrs per week • $33.42per hour

Applications close on 5pm Friday 6 December.

For a copy of the Position Description and Key Selection Criteria contact Manager Charlie Helyar on 5382 5352 or hello@horshamnh.com.au

Horsham Neighbourhood House is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and is committed to the principles of workplace diversity.

#horshamneighbourhoodhouse

#TheHeartOfOurCommunity

Contact: Brad Tarr

Contact: Gemma Bayliss

Contact: Gemma Bayliss

Contact: Gemma

Practitioner

38 hours per week

$33.41 to $49.28 per hour

Contact: Sarah Sargeant Closing: 12pm Monday 2 December

Morning Crew Weekdays from 6am to 9am

Saints’ international flavour

Cricket’s

status as an international game with an ability to unite people of many backgrounds has been illustrated by this season’s Horsham Saints B Grade team.

Despite playing in a regional setting, hours from the nearest international airport, the Saints have this year fielded a team comprising players born in four different countries.

B Grade captain Alan Dube said the Saints had players hailing from Sri Lanka, India and Pakistan playing alongside lifelong Horsham locals, but that despite their disparate backgrounds, they were brought together by a love of the game.

“We’ve got a good mix of a few guys with a bit of diversity, and hopefully we’re going to be competitive and enjoy our cricket,” he said.

“The dynamics are really good. Even just the way we bat and bowl, having different backgrounds is really good and has added to it.”

Sarmad Saif was born in Pakistan and is now in his second season with the Saints.

He said he had never been to regional Australia before moving to Horsham, but had quickly learned to love it.

“I’ve been in Australia for almost four-and-a-half years, and this is my second season in Horsham,” he said.

“It’s very good to be here with the Horsham Saints. It’s a very good environment in the team. We have a very friendly captain and all the other team members as well.

“This is the first time I’ve been in the country, and I’ve had a great experience playing cricket here. It’s very good and I’m loving it.”

With the Saints sitting fourth on the Horsham Cricket Association B Grade ladder, a finals berth is the team’s goal.

But regardless of on-field results, Dube said the team

was simply enjoying playing with each other.

“There’s a lot of excitement in the team and we’re loving it,” he said.

Injury scare

There were scary scenes in the team’s match against Horsham Tigers at Dimboola Road on Saturday, when two Saints inadvertently collided while attempting a catch.

Saints president Ben Sawyer said one player was knocked out on the field, while another required 11 stitches in his forehead.

Both players were taken to hospital but discharged later that day.

DIVERSITY:

Lulu Kuriakose, India, Ajit Anawartna, Sri Lanka, Hassaan Masood, Pakistan, Sarmad Saif, Pakistan and front, team captain Alan Dube, Zimbawe, add an international vibe at Horsham Saints.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

“They’re both doing alright now. We believe neither of them had a concussion, which is obviously a good thing,” he said.

“It’s something that was a bit scary for the people that were around, but it was okay in the end.”

Mr Sawyer said spectators at the ground attended to the players, whom he declined to name for privacy reasons, before an ambulance arrived.

“They did a really good job checking them over, and then the ambulance arrived and they did what they needed to do,” he said.

“It pretty much is the best possible outcome given what the situation was. It could have been a hell of a lot worse than what it was.”

Golf club to host clinics for juniors

Horsham Golf Club will host junior golf clinics on December 7, 14 and 21, aiming to teach children the fundamentals of the game while developing and improving their skills.

Club captain Brian Mannix, an accredited MyGolf instructor, will deliver the course, with sessions running from 1.30 to 2.30pm each day.

The cost of the program is $60 per child, with 10 of the program’s 20 spaces still available.

Children are encouraged to bring their own clubs if they have them, but clubs will be supplied if children do not have their own.

Registrations for the program close on December 6 and can be made at www.golf.org.au/ mygolf/programdetails/?progra mId=41928

People can contact program coordinator Cameron Howell by calling 0411 485 401 or emailing howellgolf@gmail. com for more information.

Bulldogs visit the Wimmera

Professional footballers from the Western Bulldogs will host free clinics in Stawell, Ararat and Horsham next month as part of the club’s annual community camp.

The Bulldogs have an affiliation with the City of Ballarat, where they host their community camp each year, but will extend the camp to include clinics in the Wimmera and Grampians regions this year.

Clinics will be at Horsham City Oval, Ararat’s Alexandra Oval and Stawell’s Central Park from 5pm to 6pm on December 10.

AFL Wimmera Mallee regional manager Ange Ballinger said eight Bulldogs players would

stay in Horsham on the night of the clinic before visiting schools in Horsham and Stawell on their return journey the following day.

Four players will stay in Ararat and visit Ararat schools following their clinic.

Ms Ballinger said she was ‘delighted’ that Bulldogs players would visit the region.

“It is the first time in many, many years that an AFL community camp has made its way to Stawell and Horsham, and I am delighted that the Western Bulldogs see great value in visiting our football-loving towns,” she said.

“Let’s see the Wimmera-Mallee extend a very warm wel-

Rising stars selected

Three talented junior players from Horsham Amateur Basketball Association, HABA, have been named among Victoria’s up-and-coming prospects after being picked for representative squads to compete in January.

Luella Burke and Micah Livingstone were both named to Basketball Victoria’s squad for the Australian Country Junior Basketball Cup, while Chavi Sulic will take part in the Southern Cross Challenge.

The Australian Country Junior Basketball Cup comprises more than 60 teams and 700 players from across Western Australia, South Australia, New South Wales, Tasmania, Victoria and New Zealand each year.

Players in under-14, under-16 and under-18 age groups compete in a round-robin tournament, which will this year be at Lauren Jackson Sports Centre in Albury, New South Wales from January 13 to 19. Meanwhile, the Southern Cross Challenge serves as an entry point to Basketball Victoria’s high-performance pathway, identifying some of the state’s most talented junior players and coaches and offering them a chance to compete in an elite tournament setting.

The Southern Cross Challenge will be at Melbourne’s State Basketball Centre from January 17 to 20.

come to the Bulldogs and give them every reason to return again and again.”

The clinics will be open to all children aged five to 12, with places limited to 200 for each clinic.

Attendance is free, but children must be registered online to attend.

People can register their children for the Horsham clinic at forms.office.com/r/VY65zphAK6, the Stawell clinic at forms.office.com/r/rGRMD29AP2 and the Ararat clinic at forms.office.com/r/RxEUcECigc

For more information on the clinics, people can call Ms Ballinger on 0427 825 519.

Croquet results

Shirley Price and Gary Devlin were too strong for Horsham Golf Croquet Club’s division one competition, ranking first and second in Thursday and Saturday’s respective events. Saturday’s division two winner was Greg Phillips, with Robyn Devlin the runner-up, and June Liddy took out the honours in division three, ahead of Yvonne Warrick.

Robyn Devlin won division two’s competition on Thursday, ahead of Rosemary Rees, with Lorna Mills and Denise Drendel successful in division three.

Bowlers dismantle teams

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Acombined 24 wickets fell at Horsham City Oval on Saturday as West Wimmera and Noradjuha-Toolondo bowlers had a day out in the first of Horsham Cricket Association’s two-day matches for 2024-25.

The ladder-leading Warriors were sent in by the Bullants after losing the toss, and while opener Brad Alexander made a team-high 32, his fellow top-order batsmen struggled to generate runs.

Fellow opener Jobe Dickinson was caught off the bowling of Jordan McDonald for one run, with the next three in the West Wimmera line-up – Jeremy Weeks, Josh Lees and Nathan Alexander – contributing just one run between them as McDonald and Matt Combe did plenty of damage.

Brodie Cramer dug in for a hardearned 17 off 58 balls, but was undone by a caught-and-bowled effort from Noradjuha-Toolondo’s Tony Caccaviello.

When Bullant Tim Crick chimed in with two late wickets, the visitors were all out for 92 in less than 33 overs.

Keeping the high-scoring West Wimmera bats quiet was an impressive achievement, but Noradjuha-Toolondo struggled to consolidate its good work when its time at the crease came.

A succession of Bullant batters struggled to deal with the bowling of Nathan Alexander, who matched Caccaviello with his own caught-and-bowled to finish with five wickets.

Only two Noradjuha-Toolondo players reached double-digit totals as the team was bowled out for 60 in 29 overs, putting West Wimmera back in to bat with a handy firstinnings lead of 32.

But the wickets continued to tumble, with Jordan McDonald again bowling well to the Warriors’ top order to remove both Dickinson and Brad Alexander leg before wicket, while Combe had Weeks and Lees for ducks.

At stumps the Warriors were 4-21 with a 53-run lead and Nathan Alexander and Brodie Cramer at the crease.

Elsewhere, Laharum posted a

commanding first-innings total of 236 against Horsham Tigers.

Ben Peucker starred at number three, making 127 at nearly a run a ball, while Joel Pymer made a handy 36 in the middle order.

Tyler and David Puls did the majority of the damage for the Tigers, claiming four and three wickets respectively.

After 29 overs the Tigers were 4-70 in reply, with Angus Adams unbeaten on 24.

A desire to play two-day cricket was behind Brim-Kellalac-Sheep Hills’ move to the Horsham Cricket Association this season, and the Eagles made a good start against reigning premier Homers at Brim.

The Eagles sent the Pigeons in, and though they struggled to break the opening partnership of Adam Atwood, 27, and Luke Miller, 18, wickets began to tumble once Lachlan McGinniss brought Miller undone in the 15th over.

Atwood followed three overs later, and thereafter only Ben Williamson, 17, reached double digits as three Pigeons were out for ducks. Charlie Dean was on target with 4-37, with McGinniss taking 3-27 and Jeremy Preston a miserly 2-6 from seven overs as Homers were all out for 90.

By stumps the Eagles were 5-122 in reply, with opener Leigh Dovas-

ENTERTAINING: Top, West Wimmera batter Liam Albrecht cuts the ball square against the Bullants at Horsham City Oval on Saturday. Above, Bullants’ Matt Combe in the field. Twenty-four wickets fell on an eventful first day. Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

ton, 37, and skipper Isaac McPherson, 30, helping their side to a 32-run first-innings lead.

At Coughlin Park, Horsham Saints took a slow and steady approach against Colts, batting 44 overs to reach 5-106 before rain

stopped play, with the visiting Colts yet to bat.

Young opener Dezi Carter produced an impressive innings of 42, while captain Gary Davidson was unbeaten on 22.

St Andrews consistent

St Andrews repeated its Gunstone Cup victory over Swifts-Great Western with a comfortable win in round seven of the Grampians Cricket Association at the weekend.

Batting first, the Combine was dismissed for 148, with the principal scorer once again being Matt Heffer with 41.

Other batsmen to register were Jacob Dunn and Craig Marrow with 29 apiece, while Marcus Elliot was the principal wicket taker for St Andrews with 6/35.

The Saints passed the required score in the 27th over, with Charlie McIntosh, 49, and James Hosking, 27 not out, leading the way.

Many association followers were surprised at Halls Gap’s Charlie McIntosh and Luke Stevens being granted permits to play in the game.

The association granted the permits to prevent the Saints from forfeiting, but with one of the association’s principal run scorers being granted a permit, many believed it had the potential to corrupt the competition’s results.

In the weekend’s other game, Pomonal continued its strong run with a win over RhymneyMoyston at Moyston.

Batting first, Rhymney-Moyston’s batters were contained by the Tigers’ tight bowling, with Nathan Quick’s 31 runs the only score of note in the team’s total of 9/129.

Clayton Mackley was the best Tiger bowler with 4/30.

Pomonal lost six wickets passing the score, with Cam Holland’s 52 not out being the backbone of the innings.

The Tigers’ recent run of good form will be tested when they come up against premier favourites St Andrews on turf at Gordon Street this weekend.

The Saints have taken all before them lately thanks to their bowlers – Vince Hammam, James Hosking, the Summers brothers and Marcus Elliot have managed to take all the wickets in each match so far, re-enforcing the cricket proverb ‘bowlers win matches’.

Tigers batsmen Clayton Mackley, Matt Peel, Tyler Cronin and Cam Holland will be challenged and need to come up with the runs to match Saints’ Tom Mills, Richard Harrick and Ryan Skiller. Halls Gap will be vying to get back on the winners’ list against Rhymney-Moyston at Stawell’s Park after a run of losses.

While the Gappers began the season successfully, wins have been hard to come by recently.

If Charlie McIntosh and Max McMahon hit their straps and the rest of the Gappers can chip in with a few runs, they will be well on their way to defeating Rhymney-Moyston, which has had trouble scoring runs on turf wickets.

Rhymney-Moyston batters Eyan Habib, Daniel Taylor and Nathan Quick will all be asked to perform at their best.

– One Short

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Morning Crew Weekdays from 6am to 9am

Athletes impress

Wimmera athletes recorded impressive results at this month’s Tri State games in Portland.

The Tri State Games are an annual week-long competition supporting allabilities athletes from Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia.

This year six teams from the Wimmera region – Wimmera Weapons, Warrack Warriors, Just Better Care, Horsham Rockets, Horsham Heat and JR Crew – competed at the games, along with independent athlete Sam Hudson.

Hudson made history by being the first ever independent athlete to win Division A best athlete at the games.

Hudson won gold medals in table tennis singles, 25-metre freestyle swimming and 50-metre freestyle, as well as silver medals in the 100-metre and 200-metre sprints.

He will also represent Victoria Country in football this week.

The Horsham Rockets team finished first in the games’ indoor sports program, second in athletics and second overall out of 35 teams, with the Warrack Warriors named the best athletics team and third overall.

Horsham Rockets volunteer Jeff Pekin described the results as wonderful achievements for both teams.

“All athletes contributed and per-

formed to the best of their ability. There were some very happy athletes and staff,” he said.

Medal winners were –

Horsham Rockets: Andrew Lang, gold in 50m run and 100m run, silver in table tennis doubles; Erin Kearns, gold in 25m butterfly, 50m breaststroke, silver in carpet bowls doubles, 50m hurdles, bronze in shot put, gold in bean bag throw, silver in pool walk, pool barbell, 75m run and 200m run; Julie Clark, gold in 25m run, bean bag throw, bronze in 25m backstroke; Maureen Cameron silver in carpet bowls doubles, 50m run, bronze in pool walk, 75m run; Michael Clark, gold in table tennis singles, 25m backstroke, silver in tennis ball throw; Sharon Creasey, gold in pool barbell,

50m walk, silver in 25m walk, carpet bowls doubles; Tom Leembruggen, silver in table tennis doubles, pool walk, 50m run; Warrick Lang, gold in 25m walk, silver in tennis ball throw, carpet bowls doubles, bronze in pool barbell.

Warrack Warriors: Lachie Young, gold in 50m run, football kick, bronze in 25m freestyle, PB in 100m run; Maddee Townsend, gold in 50m freestyle, 50m backstroke, 200m run, bronze in 100m run, football kick; Callum Barnes, gold in bean bag throw, silver in bean bag accuracy, bronze in 50m run, PB in pool barbell, pool walk; Ken Hunter, gold in pool walk, 25m run, bronze in 50m run, PB in bean bag accuracy; Stephen Coon, gold in 25m freestyle, silver in bean

bag accuracy, bronze in 25m breaststroke; Merryn Baxter, gold in 50m run, silver in pool walk, pool barbell, table tennis singles, bronze in 100m run; Mark Fogarty, gold in 100m run, bronze in pool walk; Ray Hinchcliffe, gold in 50m run, bean bag accuracy, silver in table tennis singles, bronze in pool walk, pool barbell.

Just Better Care: Rachael Werner, gold in basketball throw, 50m freestyle, silver in football distance kick, bronze in 50m hurdles; Rachael Pring, bronze in 50m run; Indya Baulch, gold in 25m freestyle, pool walk, silver in shot put, bronze in 25m walk, 25m run; Matthew Schmidt, silver in bean bag throw, 25m freestyle, bronze in pool walk, 25m walk; Jacqui Trigg, silver in quoits, 25m freestyle; Jack

Werner, gold in 50m breaststroke, 200m run, silver in pool walk, 100m run, football distance kick, bronze in 50m freestyle; Maree Crouch, gold in 50m hurdles, football distance kick, silver in pool walk, 50m freestyle, bronze in 50m run.

Horsham Heat: Holly Mee, silver in bean bag accuracy, bronze in basketball throw, walk; Glenn Castleman, gold in walk, bronze in eight-ball, football kick; Mark Sommerville, gold in freestyle, silver in run, bronze in eight-ball; Carly, silver in tennis ball throw, bronze in freestyle, PB in walk; Jess, silver in backstroke, run, bronze in bean bag accuracy, walk; Chelsea, gold in walk, silver in run.

Top teams prevail

BY DAVID BERRY

Sixof the seven minor premiers in Volleyball Horsham’s winter season grand finals were victorious on grand final night.

ing too good for their ageing Murtoa Railway opponents. The ability to learn from their mistakes was the key for Hurricanes, winning in straight sets, 25-20, 25-15, 25-12.

In A Grade, Phantoms beat Hellenic Nuggets in straight sets, 25-20, 25-14, 25-18.

In a complete contrast, Phantoms found a way to win points with good variety in attack, while Nuggets tried everything, but the Phantoms’ defence was just too strong.

Serena Johns and Malakai Van Buuren dominated for Hurricanes and went one-two in the O’Connor Medal count, with Johns taking MVP honors from Van Buuren, while Kayne Sartori-Billman won the Abud Medal and Victoria Brown the McIntyre Medal.

The A Grade Robinson Medal winner was Phantoms’ Tyler Puls, ahead of Clay Heard, Hellenic Nuggets, while Tyler Snowden was the Abud Medalist for the most consistent male, and Kara Johnson the McIntyre Medalist for the most consistent female.

In the Women’s A grand final it was another straight sets win for the top team, this time Phantoms prevailing over Ballbusters, winning 25-21, 25-21, 25-18.

In A Reserve, Heidelberg prevailed over International Rescue, once again in straight sets 25-21, 25-13, 30-28.

Women’s A MVP Laelah Robertson enjoyed a successful night, with Heidelberg’s Molly Carter runner-up, while Alysha Cozens showed she has not lost any skills taking the McIntyre Medal.

Heidelberg was strong on serve, putting their opponents on the back foot in each of the first two sets. International Rescue reversed that trend in the third, taking an early 7-1 lead, but was unable to capitalise on their strong start, allowing Heidelberg back into the contest.

In Women’s B Grade, HTLC Thorns bounced back from losing the first two sets to defeat HTLC Ladybugs in five sets, 12-25, 12-25, 2523, 25-14, 15-3 on the back of some brilliant short serving from Matilda Horvat.

Kylie Angue took MVP honors from Rej Smith, with Jenel Conteh awarded the McIntyre Medal.

The biggest upset of the finals series came in the junior grand final when Phantoms, playing with only five players, inflicted Stars Blue’s only loss for the season, winning a close fought final in five sets, 25-27, 25-18, 25-15, 24-26, 15-10.

The A Reserve Alexander Medal winner was James Davidson, Heidelberg, defeating Von Steiger Shadows’ Adam Harrison, with Rowan Sanders taking the Abud Medal and Tayla Eltze and Lily Adams sharing the McIntyre Medal.

CHS Group put its stamp on the B Grade grand final, winning in straight sets over the HTLC Tigers, 25-15, 25-23, 25-20.

Chris Hopper and Chaminda Gamage swapped the whites for kneepads and picked up where they left off the cricket field, continually winning points with their cleverness at the net.

The Internationals’ Adel Rastegar-Peymani took Radford Medal honors as MVP from Ilze Van Zyl of HTLC Tigers, with Chris Hopper awarded the Abud Medal and Chloe Mackley the McIntyre Medal.

It was a more contrasting C Grade grand final, with the youngsters in the Hurricanes team prov-

Eden Pumpa from Strikers took the Ladlow Medal as MVP from Shayne Johns of Stars Blue, with Justice McKenzie of Vipers winning the Abud Medal and Drew Armstrong of Von Steiger Kids the McIntyre Medal.

The focus will now switch to the Volleyball Victoria Junior Open tournament in Melbourne this week, with Volleyball Horsham the only country association represented among 160 teams participating.

The association will have a year-12 boys and girls team playing at the State Volleyball Centre, with a year-nine girls’ team playing at MSAC. Finals for the year-12 teams will be today, with the year-nine girls’ final to be played on Saturday.

REPRESENTATIVES: Participants and support staff from Wimmera Weapons, Warrack Warriors, Just Better Care, Horsham Rockets, Horsham Heat and JR Crew, along with individual athlete Sam Hudson at the Tri State Games in Portland.

Weekdays from 6am

Hornets on track

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Horsham Hornets can lock up top spot on the Country Basketball League men’s south-west division ladder with a win against regional rival Ararat this weekend.

The Hornets are coming off a successful double-header in round eight, beating Portland 89-68 in a physical road game on Saturday before returning to Horsham Basketball Stadium to deal Terang a 95-70 loss on Sunday.

The results leave the 8-1 Hornets on top of the ladder, with only reigning premier Mount Gambier, currently third, capable of dislodging them in the final round.

Horsham coach Scott Benbow said his side was keen to take care of business against Ararat on Sunday and ensure itself home court advantage throughout the finals.

“We had Ararat in the second game of the year, and we didn’t have Austin McKenzie for that game,” he said.

“With a few more games under our belt and a full team we’re playing better basketball, but in saying that Ararat is very dangerous – Ararat coach Josh Fiegert is doing a great job with them and their young kids are very exciting.

“This is their last game for the year, so I’m guessing they’ll want to come out and take a scalp.”

Benbow said the Hornets were playing some of their best basketball as they approached the finals.

“Saturday night was really impressive because Portland was very physical,” he said.

“We were relying on guys like Jono and Matt Lovel to match their physicality, but guys like Micah Livingstone stood up very well for a 16-year-old, ‘Aussie’ McKenzie was very solid and Cody Bryan was amazing in defence again.

Seniors

“Mitch continued his hot shooting streak – I think he had another five threes.

“They challenged us a few times, but we always seemed to have an answer, which is what we’ve been able to do this year. We seem to be maturing as a side.”

Against Terang on Sunday it was a similar story, with Horsham dominating the visiting Tornadoes before emptying its bench in the second half.

“We wanted to reward some of our bench players for training as hard as everyone else, and we wanted to give some of our guys a bit of rest because I played them for big minutes on Saturday night,” he said.

“They were able to have a bit of a spell and cheer on the other guys.”

Benbow said the team was now focused on capturing the minor premiership before turning its eyes towards the finals.

“We’ve locked in a home final already, but top spot is what we’re ideally chasing,” he said.

“The semi finals are one versus four and two versus three, and it looks like Mount Gambier and Warrnambool are going to be second and third if we finish on top.

“I’d sooner avoid those teams until the grand final if we’re lucky enough to make it, but whoever finishes fourth is also going to be a pretty formidable opponent.”

In the mix to finish fourth are Terang, Colac and Millicent, which handed Horsham its only loss of the season in round one.

Benbow said whoever the Hornets played in their first final, he was counting on vocal support at Horsham Basketball Stadium.

“We can’t wait to regroup and get a final in front of our home crowd. It’s going to be a pretty amazing atmosphere,” he said.

Results

Pennant: Central Park 5-65 drew Horsham Lawn 4-47, washout; St Michaels 9-88 d Drung South 5-75.

A Special: Natimuk 7-88 d Haven 7-84; Horsham Lawn Gillespie 8-82 d Brimpaen 6-70; Central Park 11-102 d Homers 3-59.

A Grade: Central Park 8-83 d Drung South 4-75; Haven 7-71 d Horsham Lawn O’Connor 5-70; St Michaels 10-85 d Horsham Lawn McGennisken 2-55.

B Special: Laharum 13-83 d Haven 3-41; Horsham Lawn Bardell 9-67 d Natimuk 7-63; Horsham Lawn T igers 12-85 d Drung South 4-56.

Juniors

Open: Central Park Blue 5-35 d Horsham Lawn Green 1-11; Quantong 4-33 d Homers 2-20; Natimuk 4-28 d Horsham Lawn Gold 2-17.

Section 1 Boys: Central Park Blue 4-31 d Horsham Lawn White 2-20; Horsham Lawn Green 4-27 d Central Park White 2-25; Haven 5-31 d Homers 1-18.

Section 1 Girls: Haven Red 6-36 d Haven Blue 0-11; Central Park White 3-26 d Horsham Lawn Gold 3-25; Horsham Lawn Green 6-36 d Horsham Lawn White 0-21; Central Park Blue 5-33 d Homers 1-16.

Section 2 Boys: Haven 6-36 d Central Park White 0-11; Horsham Lawn Green 4-33 d Horsham Lawn Red 2-23; Horsham Lawn White 6-36 d Natimuk 0-7; Central Park Blue 4-30 d Horsham Lawn Gold 2-20.

Section 2 Girls: Haven 3-26 d Central Park 3-22; Horsham Lawn Yellow 5-30 d Homers Red 1-14; Horsham Lawn White 5-32 d Homers White 1-12; Horsham Lawn Gold 4-33 d Natimuk 2-19.

Section 4 Boys: Haven Yellow 4-27 d Horsham Lawn White 2-23; Haven Purple 3-28 d Haven Brown 3-18; Central Park 5-35 d Horsham Lawn Gold 1-18.

Section 4 Girls: Horsham Lawn White 3-24 d Haven Gold 3-23; Horsham Lawn Green 4-30 d Horsham Lawn Gold 2-20.

Match Play Section 5 and 6: No matches due to the heat.

Rain affects round eight

Central Wimmera Tennis Association’s Pennant round eight matches featured a St Michael’s win while the other match was washed out.

Central Park and Horsham Lawn were unable to finish the day’s play owing to the weather.

The two teams shared the points and finished with a draw, Central Park’s 5-65 to Horsham Lawn’s 4-47, leaving the ladder positions unchanged – Central Park on top with 28 points to second-placed Horsham Lawn on 26.

Central Park’s Brendan Nitschke and Adele Joseph each won two games – Nitschke with partners Harry Allen and Reece Harman, and Joseph with Courtney Cameron, as well as her singles.

Horsham Lawn saw two matches end in tie-

breakers – D’Artagnan Walls defeated Allan, while Lachlan Punchard and Andrew Dorman beat Matt Jones and Reece Harman.

St Michaels enjoyed a good day at home, taking on Drung South, finishing all matches with 9-88 to 5-75, and remaining in third place on the ladder on 18 points.

St Michaels’ Steve Schultz won all three of his games – his singles, and doubles with partners Chris Ellis and Joel Rees.

Jess Cannane did the same for the team, pairing well with Barb Crough and Kassie Peachey, and winning her singles match.

Drung South’s Kate-Lyn Perkin also had three-for-three, enjoying clear wins in her singles and with partners Yolly Molineaux and Meaghan Gardner, who was on a day pass.

Kalkee had the bye.

Mitch Martin Charlie Campbell

Henry Roberts guards Austin McKenzie.

Get your Lawn on!

THIS DECEMBER

THE LAWN PLAN

DAY 1

WEEK 1

Launch+ 100ml

Moist 300ml

Wetting agent, water retention.

History 12ml

Control of lawn pests

Hero 100ml

Promotes soil structure & stimulates growth

Four Seasons 2KG’s Slow

Specifically formulated for stimulating growth.

Root Builder+ 100ml

Promotes root growth for uptake of nutrients and water.

WEEK 3

Greenlight 400ml

Formulated with a high balanced Nitrogen and added Iron to give your lawn a deep green.

Root Builder+ 100ml

Promotes root growth for uptake of nutrients and water

WEEK 2

Hero 100ml

Promotes soil structure & stimulates growth

WEEK 4

Greenlight 400ml

Formulated with a high balanced Nitrogen and added Iron to give your lawn a deep green.

Root Builder+ 100ml

Promotes root growth for uptake of nutrients and water

SPORT

Swim meet success

OTHER SPECIALISED TURF PRODUCTS AVAILABLE AT

More than 100 swimmers from across western Victoria attended the Horsham Sharks’ first swim meet of the season at the weekend – an increase of 20 compared to the same event last year.

Event coordinator Jenny Ough said the club was ‘very excited’ by the numbers, with swimmers travelling from Ballarat, Warrnambool, Hamilton, Ararat and St Arnaud for the meet.

“The district clubs have many new swimmers over a range of age groups this season,” she said.

“Our meets cover swimmers from under eight years to adults. No one is ever too old to compete. With swimmer numbers on the increase it will lead to an exciting season.”

Mrs Ough said Warracknabeal would host an encouragement meet on Sunday, open to all swimmers without the need to register.

“It is a chance to try competitive swimming and experience a meet without registering with Swimming Victoria and being a member of one of our local clubs,” she said.

“All are welcome to join us. Warm-up is at 11am, and the meet will start at 12pm.”

People wanting to know more about swimming or wishing to enter the encouragement meet on December 1 can call Mrs Ough on 0427 826 508.

Local winners at the weekend were:

Girls/women: Madeline McClure, Horsham, eight-and-under, 50m freestyle; Rhianna McClure, Horsham, nine-10, 50m freestyle, 50m breaststroke; Edith Brennan, Horsham, nine-10, 50m backstroke, 50m butterfly; Emily Liston, Horsham, 11-12, 50m freestyle; Leila Hudson, Horsham, 11-12, 50m backstroke – open, 200m freestyle; Sansom Grace, Horsham, 11-12, 50m breaststroke; Charlotte Matuschka, Horsham, 13-14, 100m freestyle, 50m butterfly, 200m individual medley; Lauren Jones, Horsham, 13-14, 100m backstroke; Billie Donnan, Ararat, 15-16, 50m freestyle, 50m backstroke, 50m breaststroke, 50m butterfly, 200m individual medley –open, 100m breaststroke; Nicole Pretorious, Horsham, 15-16, 100m freestyle; Aleara Madex, Ararat, 15-16, 100m backstroke; Lucinda Grayling, Ararat, 17-29, 50m backstroke – open, 100m backstroke; Tracey Townsend, Ararat, 30-and-over, 50m freestyle.

Boys/men: Wilem Lovett, Ararat, eight-andunder, 50m freestyle; Eamon Thomas, Ararat, eight-and-under, 50m backstroke; Charles Gregson, Warracknabeal, eight-and-under, 50m breaststroke; Kaeden Beaton, Horsham, nine-10, 50m freestyle, 50m backstroke, 50m butterfly; Lewis Lowe, St Arnaud, 11-12, 50m freestyle; Bryce McDonald, Horsham, 11-12, 50m breaststroke – 12-and-under, 100m backstroke; Abel Neumann, Horsham, 11-12, 50m butterfly – open, 100m freestyle; Vincent Brennan, Horsham, 12-and-under, 100m freestyle, 200m individual medley; Hylton Penfold, Horsham, 13-14, 100m freestyle, 100m backstroke, 50m breaststroke, 100m breaststroke; Cokey Galoso, Ararat, 13-14, 50m backstroke; Finn Wilson, St Arnaud, 13-14, 200m individual medley; Edward Jones, Horsham, 15-16, 50m freestyle, 50m breaststroke; Caleb Townsend, Ararat, 1516, 50m backstroke, 50m butterfly; Gabriel Tonks, Ararat, 17-29, 50m backstroke, 50m butterfly, 200m individual medley – open, 100m backstroke; Jeremy Moore, Horsham, 30-andover, 50m freestyle, 50m backstroke; Cameron Evans, Ararat, 30-and-over, 50m breaststroke, 50m butterfly.

LIKE A FISH TO WATER: Above, Charlotte Matuschka, Horsham; middle, Lucinda Grayling, Ararat; and left, Bryce McDonald, Horsham; at the Wimmera District 12 swim meet at Horsham on Sunday.

Relay champions

About40 members of Horsham Little Athletics Centre showed their talent at a unique athletics carnival in Ballarat this month, winning a combined 26 medals.

The Horsham athletes competed at a regional Little Athletics carnival that focused solely on relay races, with no individual events.

Competitors were able to take part in boys, girls and mixed four-by-100-metre and four-by200-metre races, along with special medley races involving one 100-metre leg, one 200-metre leg, one 300-metre leg and one 400-metre leg.

Horsham Little Athletics Centre vice-president Ben Sawyer said the meet was a great way to build teamwork among junior athletes.

“The good part about it is that athletics is such an individual sport, but then they go and do relays and they’ve got team-mates all day,” he said.

“It’s absolutely brilliant that they get to do it with a team – they’ve got to work and make sure they get the baton changes right.

“It’s all a team effort, whereas everything else,

whether you’re doing 100 metres, high jump, or whatever it is, you’re on your own.”

Horsham won a combined nine gold medals, with two second-place finishes and seven thirdplace finishes.

Horsham’s under-13 boys team won each of its 100-metre, 200-metre and medley relays, with two of its four members also participating in the winning under-13 mixed 100-metre realy.

Winning teams will progress to state relay finals in Melbourne next month.

Mr Sawyer said two young athletes from the Horsham centre were also preparing to represent their state, with his son Jack Sawyer selected in a School Sport Victoria squad to compete in Sydney this weekend.

Jack will participate in the 100 and 200 metre races, a team relay and a combined event comprising a 100-metre race, long jump, shot put and an 800-metre race.

Meanwhile, Georgia Foster will travel to New Zealand in January as part of a Little Athletics Victoria development team to compete at the North Island Games.

sisters, Kerryn Manning and Michelle Wight, with Time To Torque after the filly saluted at Terang for trainer Peter Manning.

Ainsworth continues stellar run

Stawell horseman Jason Ainsworth continued his terrific season at Terang on Sunday when five-year-old mare Daisy Bouchea led from ‘go to whoa’ to take out the Mobile Start Trot over 1680-metres.

It was the 27-year-old trainer’s 34th success for the 2024 season and an extra-special one, being the 100th of his training career.

Ainsworth races the Greg Hargreaves bred, daughter of Danny Bouchea in partnership with his partner Natasha Raven and the trotter heads Ainsworth and Raven are sure to find a suitable race for ‘Daisy’ on her home track at Stawell on Sunday, along with several of her stablemates.

‘Torque’ success

Now, from the younger generation of trainers to the veterans – legendary Great Western horseman Peter Manning also landed a winner at Terang with three-year-old filly Time To Torque.

After a frustrating two-year-old campaign, which produced nine top-four finishes without a victory, Manning brought Time To Torque back to racing at Ararat on March 1 and the filly has

gone on to post six wins and six minors from 26 outings as a three year old.

Manning also trained Time To Torque’s dam, Torque Attraction, for seven wins along with a host of others from that family, including Elusive Torque, 15 wins and $100,000. The ‘Torque’ horses are all bred and raced by long time stable client, Ian Corazzol of Queensland.

Stawell cup

All roads lead to Laidlaw Park on Sunday afternoon for the running of the $20,000 Stawell Pacing Cup, $20,000 Trotting Cup and $10,000 feature for two-year-old trotters, The Maori Legend.

The bumper nine-race card of harness action sees a return to twilight time with the first event set for 3.22pm and ‘lucky last’ at 7:50pm.

The club will fundraise on the day for the Stawell Interchurch Christmas Appeal and has organised plenty of entertainment to complement the racing, including fashions-on-the-field across multiple categories. Admission is free. – Tony Logan

Located 1650 Blue Ribbon Rd, Kalkee

NOVEMBER 10TH 2024 – RACING STARTS 11AM Quarter Midgets Club Show

DECEMBER 7TH 2024 – RACING STARTS 5PM

SRA Sprintcars Pro Sprints, SSA Junior Sedans, V8 Trucks, Vintage Sedans, Vintage Hot Rods, AMCA Nationals

JANUARY 4TH 2025 – RACING STARTS 5.30PM

SSA Street Stocks Rd 5, SSA 1200 Juniors Series & SSA Juniors, V8 Trucks, Production Sedans, Limited Sportsman, Unlimited Sedans Series Rd

FEBRUARY 1ST 2025 – RACING STARTS 5PM

VSC Unlimited Sedan Title, Wingless Title, SSA Junior Sedans

MARCH 15TH 2025 – RACING STARTS 4.30PM

SSA Production Sedan Vic Title, JSPA Junior Sedans Series Rd 9, V8 Trucks, Limited Sportsman

MARCH 16 2025 – RACING STARTS 11AM Quarter Midgets Series Round 6

APRIL 5TH 2025 –RACING STARTS 4.30PM

Wingless Classic, SSA Junior Sedans, V8 Trucks, Vintage Sedans, Vintage Hot Rods, Super Rods

APRIL 26TH 2025 – RACING STARTS 4.30PM

SSA 1200 Junior Sedans, SRA Sprintcars, V8 Trucks, Production Sedans, Limited Sportsman

MAY 17TH 2025 – RACING STARTS 4.30PM

Compact Speedcars, SSA Junior Sedans, V8 Trucks, Production Sedans, Standard Saloons Series Rd 6, VSC Junior Standard Saloons

MAY 18TH 2025 – JUNIOR CARNIVAL – RACING STARTS 10AM

All SSA Junior Classes, VSC Standard Saloons Juniors, Junior Formula 500, Junior Outlaw Karts, SKAA Junior Karts, Quarter Midgets Club Show

JUNE 7TH RACING STARTS 3PM & JUNE 8TH 2025

RACING STARTS 1PM

Wingless Sprints, SSA Junior Sedans, V8 Trucks, Production Sedans, Vintage Hot Rods, Vintage Sedans, Street Stocks, Unlimited Sedans Feature

Stawell trainer-driver Jason Ainsworth and ‘stable favourite’ Daisy Bouchea.

Great Western

Junior netball change Rep cricket starts

TheWimmera Football Netball League, WFNL, will allow each Under 15 netball team to have one male participant in season 2025.

At the league’s November 18 annual general meeting, the board passed the motion to reword the existing Under 15 Female Netball Competition to the Under 15 Mixed Netball Competition, allowing for the inclusion of one male participant per team, who can play until the age of 14 – as determined by their age on December 31 of the current year.

The change aligns with Netball Victoria’s Promotion of Male Participation in Netball Policy and the Netball Victoria Gender Regulation, ensuring the WFNL is in step with best practices and supports greater inclusivity in the sport.

At the AGM, Peter ‘Billy’ Ballagh was re-elected as league chairman for the 2025 season.

Mr Ballagh said the introduction of the Under 15 Mixed Netball Competition would create more opportunities for junior males to play netball alongside their female counterparts, encouraging the development of both male and female players at the grassroots level.

In line with the decision, the WFNL will also continue to provide consistent and equal opportunities for junior participants across both football and netball, offering a more inclusive

and diverse sporting environment for young athletes in the region.

“We are excited to introduce this change, which ensures that both males and females have access to the same opportunities to play netball in the Wimmera,” Mr Ballagh said.

“This motion reflects our commitment to inclusivity, supporting the development of junior athletes, and providing pathways for young players to progress in both netball and football.”

Other positions on the board were Bart Turgoose vice chair, Toni Stewart secretary, Peter Hamilton treasurer and Jodie Hendy, Deidre Harrington and Neil King board members.

Mr Ballagh said the 2025 board

brought a wealth of experience and dedication to ensure the continued growth and success of the league, as it continued the development of football and netball across the region.

He said the WFNL looked forward to a successful 2025 season, supporting the league’s ongoing mission to ensure participation, skill development, and sportsmanship across all levels.

The league has this week released an updated 2025 fixture, with the venues of clubs who have more than one home ground listed.

The 2025 season will begin on Good Friday, April 18, with Ararat playing Stawell as a round three clash.

Round one will begin on April 25, with Southern Mallee Thunder versus Stawell; Minyip-Murtoa play Dimboola; Ararat host Horsham; and Horsham Saints host Nhill, while Warrack Eagles has the bye.

A league bye will occur over Easter, followed by Horsham versus Horsham Saints on Anzac Day.

The 18 home and away rounds conclude on August 23, before the finals series starts on August 30.

The preliminary final will be played on Saturday, September 13 – the same day as Horsham District Football Netball League’s grand final – with the Wimmera league to host their biggest day of the year on September 20.

Representative cricket is underway for the 2024-25 season, with a Horsham Cricket Association senior side going down to Hamilton District Cricket Association by three wickets at Monivae College on Sunday.

Playing in the Western Waves regional Festival of Cricket tournament, the Horsham side was sent in after losing the toss, and got the worst possible start when opening batsman Brad Alexander was caught for a golden duck on the first ball of the game.

Apart from Dezi Carter, who contributed 15 runs, the Horsham top-order was largely ineffective against the Hamilton bowling attack.

It was not until captain Nathan Alexander came to the crease with his side labouring at 4-28 that Horsham’s fortunes began to turn.

Alexander batted patiently and was on the verge of a half-century when he was brought undone by Hamilton’s Luke Evans, who picked up his fourth wicket.

Josh Lees, 24, Brenton Hallam, 33, and Baxter Perry, 13, made vital lateinnings contributions to take Horsham to a competitive total of 157 before the final wicket fell.

Having top-scored with the bat, Alexander wasted little time with the ball in hand, taking the wickets of both Hamilton openers cheaply to put the home side on the back foot.

But Evans, who finished with bowling figures of 5-32 for Hamilton,

steadied the innings with 17 runs from 44 balls, while at the other end Shanaka Silva made a quick 37.

While no Hamilton batsman registered an imposing total, innings of 16 from Paul Procter, 19 from Noah Hildebrand and 25 from skipper Darryl Fry kept the scoreboard ticking, with the Hurricanes reaching their target seven wickets down and with several overs to spare.

Horsham has a bye in the next round of the competition on December 15, with the Wimmera-Mallee Cricket Association representative side set to play Hamilton District.

Junior teams announced Horsham Cricket Association has named under-17 and under-13 country week representative sides to compete at Warrnambool and Portland respectively in January.

The under-17 side is: Luke Miller, Harry Hoffmann, Hugh Weidemann, Dezi Carter, Jobe Dickinson, Jaxson Crooks, Oliver Potter, Matthew Kerr, Harry Millar, Jack Combe, Zac van Buuren, Jarvis Mitchell and Archie Sostheim, with Peter Carter and Rod Weidemann coaching.

The under-13 side is: Jack Arnel, Jazz Hopper, Joel Plazzer, Lenny Carter, Will McCurdy, Tommy Combe, Oscar Combe, Zac Pickering, Judd Oakley, Lenny Shurdington, Edward Schorback, Judd Thompson and Jack Dodds, with Justtin Combe coaching.

Expressions of Interest – School Based Carpentry Apprenticeship

Warracknabeal

Job posted: November 11, 2024

Closing date: ASAP

Requirements:

• Enjoy mathematical and technical activities

• Good hand-eye coordination, good sense of balance and ability to work at heights.

• Willingness to commit to work and study

• White card

• Current driver’s licence and reliable transport (desirable)

For more information contact Kate Clark on 0428 971 821.

Horsham

Closing date: ASAP

Skills and Experience:

• Positive attitude and willingness to learn

• Able to work independently & in team

• Strong attention to detail

• Comfortable working outdoors in varying conditions

• Physically fit and able to meet manual requirements Individual Support Traineeship

For more information, please contact recruitment@skillinvest.com.au

Warracknabeal

Closing date: ASAP Requirements:

• Patient, caring, responsible, supportive, flexible and resilient

• Ability to communicate and work well with people of all ages

• Ability to work both autonomously and well in a team

• Willingness to commit to work and study

• Hold & maintain a current First Aid & CPR Certificate

• Current NDIS Worker Screening Clearance

• Evidence of Up to Date COVID vaccinations

For more information contact Kate Clark on 0428 971 821.

•

•

•

•

• Traffic Management Certificate or willingness to attain

• Plant operator’s competency

• Current First Aid Certificate

• Experience in a similar role advantageous

To discuss this opportunity further, contact Nathan Keel on 0408

Seasonal Harvest Intake 2024/2025

Road Worker

Peter Ballagh

Hornets forward Cody Bryan and his Terang Tornadoes opponent Ryley Hutchins collide during the teams’ round eight clash won by the home side 9570 in Horsham on Sunday. The Hornets play Ararat Redbacks in Horsham this Sunday at the Hornets’ Nest. A win over the Redbacks should seal top spot on the CBL ladder heading into finals. Story, page 67

Horsham

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER