The Weekly Advertiser – Wednesday, February 5, 2025

BY LAUREN HENRY

Member for Lowan Emma Kealy has put the blowtorch on the State Government’s inaction to provide funding support to fire-affected businesses and residents across the region.

In Parliament yesterday, Ms Kealy questioned the government on business support and called for an inquiry into preparedness and recovery.

Ms Kealy asked in light of the government announcing an inquiry into landslides at McRae on the Mornington Peninsula, when would Premier Jacinta Allan establish an inquiry into the Grampians fire.

She pointed out a lack of fuel reduction to levels recommended in the Royal Commission into Black Saturday fires; failure to have a complete fire-fighting air-fleet in place for the fire season; and failure to support businesses to assist community recovery.

The political debate came as hundreds of firefighters continue to battle

unprecedented fires in the Grampians National Park and Little Desert National Park.

A heatwave punctuated by daily thunderstorms on Sunday and Monday had heightened fire conditions for firefighters.

However rain had been sparing, with less than 10 millimetres across most of the region.

The Grampians fires are expected to burn for weeks, and are threatening several surrounding communities, depending on wind direction.

There are two major bushfires – the Bullawin fire in the Victoria Valley along the west of the Grampians National Park is threatening Big Cord, Mirranatwa, Strachans, Victoria Point and Victoria Valley to the east, and Cavendish, Mona Park, Mooralla, Rocklands and Woohlpooer in the west.

The Bullawin fire has joined with the fire ground from the Yarram Gap fire, which started on December 17 and was brought under control last month.

The Henty Highway is closed due to

the Bullawin fire, as are many other roads across the region – either due to fire damage or threat, or to allow emergency services vehicles easy access.

Police – both local and from the Public Order Response Team and other divisions – have also increased their presence in the fire-affected communities to man traffic management points and assist fire services.

The Wallaby Rocks fire in the north of the national park is threatening the Zumsteins, Brimpaen and Wartook communities.

Firefighters have put in containment lines in the past week, in an attempt to stop the fires from spreading into surrounding communities.

Forest Fire Management Victoria chief fire officer Chris Hardman said firefighters were working ‘incredibly hard’ to contain the fires that had jumped out of the park, using bulldozers, heavy equipment and aviation assets.

Mr Hardman said more than 600 fire fighters were battling the Grampians

fire, with a strong focus on asset protection.

“They will be there for some time to come,” he said.

“If you’re in those areas, it’s really important to know it’s a long way from over.

“It’s really important the communities stay aware and focused on what’s happening in their local areas.

“It’s been a very long season and we are still very much at the beginning of that season.

“We can expect this fire season to go through toward the end of February and even into March.”

Little Desert

The Little Desert National Park fire is not yet under control, and changed from moving in a south-westerly direction to a north-easterly direction towards Lillimur South yesterday afternoon.

However with a wind change expected yesterday afternoon, the fire was expected to push north-north easterly.

After starting on January 27 and threatening Dimboola and neighbouring communities early last week, Horsham’s Incident Control Centre announced on Saturday the fire was contained.

However the fire jumped containment lines to the south of the national park on Sunday, threatening the communities of Goroke, Minimay, Morea, Peronne, Neuarpurr, Kaniva, and Lillimur.

Crews remain on site to build containment lines, suppress fire activity and black out hot spots.

There was a community meeting in Goroke last night to update residents about the fire, which has now burnt more than 90,500 hectares.

Emergency Management Commissioner Rick Nugent said a New South Wales fire command vehicle was destroyed by fire in the Little Desert on Monday.

“Thankfully, the firefighters through them managed to escape the vehicle before it was fully engulfed,” he said.

Continued page 3

HRCC NEWS

New City Oval Pavilion - Frequently Asked Questions

What will be constructed, and how much will it cost?

The project includes the following:

•Demolition of the existing community facility, change rooms, kiosk, and precinct entry area.

•Construction of a community facility seating up to 200, with accessible amenities, catering and conferencing facilities, office, and meeting space.

•Construction of multi-purpose change rooms (AFL compliant) including two change rooms with additional amenities, two separate umpires’ change rooms with amenities, a medical room, storage, gym, and public toilet.

•Construction of a covered concourse and veranda to create a walkway between the two buildings and an accessible, all-weather viewing area for the precinct.

•New northwest main entry to the precinct including a food kiosk, ticket box, and landscaping.

•New southwest entry to the precinct via the Community Facility concourse.

•Second ticket box for south entry to the precinct (Hocking Street).

The total project budget is $9.6 million, with a $4.8 million contribution from the federal government.

Why not a double-story building?

The existing two-storey building will be replaced with an accessible single-storey pavilion. However, the new building will be raised and still offer high-angle views of the oval without the need for a lift. For example, people seated inside the building will be able to see over the heads of people standing on the fence line.

The overall footprint will be larger than the existing building due to the need to meet AFL-standard guidelines.

When will construction start?

Works on the project will start by the end of July 2025. However, demolition of the existing main pavilion will not happen until the end of the 2025 Wimmera League Season,

including finals. This means there will be no interruption to the coming football season.

HRCC will work with the Horsham Demons to manage playing arrangements during the 2026 season.

Cricket will be able to continue at City Oval for the 2025/2026 Horsham Cricket Association season.

What are 'AFL compliant' changerooms and why do we need to meet these standards?

As the governing body for Australian rules football, the AFL produces guidelines for changerooms at various levels, including local, regional, and state facilities.

The new City Oval changerooms will meet the AFL’s Facilities and Amenities Guidelines 2024 – this doesn’t mean that AFL will be played here (as it is not a State Facility).

All Federal and State-funded projects need to comply with AFL guidelines (regional or local) to meet funding requirements.

Will works involve widening the oval?

The current funding we have received is not for the widening of the oval. There are plans to widen the City Oval playing surface in future stages of the redevelopment. This is currently unfunded.

Will the works replace the grandstand?

Not yet. There are plans to redevelop the grandstand in future stages of the redevelopment. This is currently unfunded.

Are there any plans to have additional user groups at City Oval?

HRCC is open to talking to various community or sporting groups about sharing the benefits of the new facilities.

Have further questions?

If you have any questions regarding this project, please send an email to council@hrcc.vic.gov.au and we will do our best to provide an answer.

Community Development Grants open throughout February

Applications for HRCC's annualCommunity DevelopmentGrants

Program opened on Monday 3 February for not-for-profit groups to deliver projects that directly benefit residents.

Mayor Ian Ross said the Community Development Grants program was one of four streams, with the Events Grants round to open later in May this year. Urgent Need Small Grants and Youth Grants are open year round.

“Community Development Grants are open for application during February each year,” he said.

“I encourage community groups to plan their grant application early as there are changes to the on-line application form this year,” Cr Ross said.

“Read the guidelines, plan your project, and speak

with our Grants Team about your application to ensure it meets the guidelines to give it every chance of success,” he said.

“Grant information sessions are being held in Natimuk and Horsham on February 11 and 12 that will explain the changes. I encourage all prospective applicants to attend. Details of the workshops are on Council’s website.” Applications open 4 February and close 4 March.

Cr Ross said the annual grants program was important to our local community organisations who sustain our region.

“The community development grants are always very popular, with over $137,000 allocated over the past 12 months to 41 local organisations," he said.

“Grants up to $10,000 were available for the annual funding round, with the majority of successful applications between $500 and $5,000 for projects that enhance the provision of facilities or delivery of services to people in the Horsham municipality."

To find out more visit the HRCC grants webpage or call 53829777.

TENDERS AND RFQ

SUPPLY AND INSTALLATION OF DADSWELLS PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE

Closes Tuesday 11 February

CONSULTANT TO PROVIDE INTERNAL AUDIT SERVICES

Closes Friday 21 February

All tender, EOI and RFQ details at hrcc.vic.gov.au Are you prepared for a heat wave?

RATES PAYMENT REMINDERS

Council reminds property owners who pay their rates in full, that the annual payment is due Monday 17 February 2025.

If you are paying by instalments, your next instalment is due on Friday 28 February 2025. Notices will be issued in early February.

If you have not received your 2024/2025 annual notice, are having difficulty paying by the due date, or want to speak to a member of the Rates team, please contact our office on 03 5382 9777

Heat kills more Australians than any other natural disaster.

Extreme heat can affect anybody.

Those most at-risk include people over the age of 65, babies and young children, pregnant women, people with acute or chronic health problems and people who are isolated.

Heat can cause serious and potentially fatal health problems such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke, trigger sudden events like heart attack or stroke, or worsen existing medical conditions like kidney or lung disease.

Recognising early symptoms of heat-related health problems and taking action is crucial.

Take these steps to stay cool during hot weather:

•Use air conditioning or a fan.

•Wear light and loose-fitting clothing.

•Keep skin wet, using a spray bottle or damp sponge. Take cool showers or foot baths in cool tap water.

•Wrap ice cubes in a damp towel and drape around your neck.

•Block heat from entering your home with blinds or curtains.

•Open windows and doors if you think it is hotter indoors than outdoors.

•Consider spending some time in a cool place such as an air-conditioned shopping centre or public library.

•Avoid vigorous physical activity.

Next Council Meeting: February 24, 2025 - 5.30pm Horsham Rural City Council: 18 Roberts Avenue Horsham | Postal address: PO Box 511 Horsham VIC 3402 | Phone: (03) 5382 9777 | Email: council@hrcc.vic.gov.au | Web: www.hrcc.vic.gov.au

February 5, 2025 edition

Pitch organisers plan safer festival

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Organisers of Moyston’s Pitch Music and Arts Festival say this year’s event will proceed safely after extreme heat and poor organisation saw the festival abandoned midway through its fiveday runtime in March last year.

Attendees at last year’s festival reported several cases of heatstroke, exacerbated by allegedly inadequate staffing levels and a lack of organisation.

The event had been scheduled to run from March 8 to 12, but was abandoned on March 10, leaving many festivalgoers confused.

A 23-year-old man later died in hospital from a suspected drug overdose suffered at the festival.

Despite the chaos of last year, festival organisers insisted this year’s festival, scheduled from March 7 to 11, would be safe.

“We have been working closely with the local CFA, community members and other relevant authorities to en-

sure the festival not only proceeds safely, but also aligns with the wishes of those who call this region home,” organisers said in a statement on the festival’s website.

“The recent fires in the area have reduced the fuel load in the area, which minimises the risk of further fires in the near future.

“We will, of course, continue to liaise closely with all relevant parties as the event approaches.”

Organisers said they had engaged a bushfire behavioural specialist to contribute to the event’s emergency management plans in response to last year’s ‘unprecedented conditions’.

They said they would also provide improved wi-fi coverage and a campground speaker system in an attempt to ensure clearer communication with patrons.

“We’ve been dedicating our efforts to elevating our on ground communication processes to a higher standard, ensuring essential information flows accurately and effectively between our staff and people of Pitch,” they

said. Organisers said they would also increase harm-reduction initiatives and boost staffing numbers at helper hubs.

Pitch organisers did not respond to The Weekly Advertiser’s requests for further comment.

Ararat Rural City Council chief executive Tim Harrison said the council was working to ensure this year’s festival minimised patron risk.

“Council is working closely with event organisers and other relevant authorities including the CFA, Ambulance Victoria, the Department of Health and Victoria Police to ensure community support and safety for the event,” he said.

“This event will not only benefit our local economy but also provide a means for attendees to directly support bushfire-affected communities.”

Drug testing

The State Government last week announced a mobile drug-testing facility would appear at Pitch this year as part of a trial program aiming to reduce

drug-related harm at festivals. The government began the drug-testing trial at December’s Beyond the Valley Festival following a rise in drug harm last year, including the death of a Pitch attendee.

The government said nearly 40 per cent of patrons who used the service said they would use a smaller amount of their drugs following their discussion with a healthcare worker, while one in six people discarded their drugs after having them tested.

Mental Health Minister Ingrid Stitt said the service was operated by The Loop and Harm Reduction Victoria, in partnership with Youth Support and Advocacy Service.

“Following a spike in drug harm last festival season, this service is more important than ever – it offers a sensible health-led approach that will save the lives of young Victorian festivalgoers,” she said.

“The results from Beyond the Valley speak for themselves: pill testing does not encourage people to use drugs. It allows people to see what’s really in

their substances and make informed health decisions.”

Pitch organisers said consultation with the Moyston community showed a majority of residents wanted the festival to continue in the area.

“The overwhelming response has been a resounding endorsement for Pitch to remain at our home in Moyston – not only for the vital economic uplift it provides to the region but also for the positive impact it has on the spirit of the community,” they said.

“This year we’ll be amplifying our support and giving back to the valued community who has welcomed us over the past seven years.

“This will include direct donations to recovery initiatives BlazeAid and Need For Feed, as well as the CFA.

“We will also contribute $1 for every item sold at the community barbecue towards these organisations. We encourage all patrons to purchase from the community barbecue during their time at Pitch.”

‘Heartbreaking and unfair’

From page 1

Mr Nugent thanked the ‘incredible volunteers and paid firefighters across the state who have been working tirelessly’ for a couple of months.

“Thanks also to their families and employers who support them to do their volunteer work. We are so thankful for that,” he said.

“I’m also so thankful for 114 interstate firefighters and specialist incident management team personnel who are joining our firefighters on the ground or in the incident control centres to fight these fires.

“My final thanks is to the community of Victoria. It is clear that they are staying informed. They are listening to the messages and they are leaving, and leaving early.”

Parliamentary debate

The Premier said she understood the ‘great challenges’ that were being experienced by townships, businesses and communities around the Grampians.

“There’s already been a range of supports that have been provided with the activation of the personal hardship grants, and the activation by the Federal Government for employees in those communities who have lost their income,” she said.

Ms Allan said she visited Horsham Incident Control Centre with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in December, while the Yarram Gap fire

was burning, where she was briefed by and thanked emergency services personnel.

Ms Allan said Emergency Services Minister Vikki Ward visited Dimboola last week, and  the Local Government Minister and Small Business Minister have visited Halls Gap.

“We are doing that to listen to those communities ... There is still an active fire underway right now, and we will continue to support those communities,” she said.

Ms Kealy took the Premier to task about the lack of business support, telling Parliament that businesses were about to ‘go broke’ because there was no government assistance they qualified for.

“The Labor government’s support for our communities over these fire events has been disastrous,” she said.

“Despite the bushfires starting 50 long days ago, there has been no support provided for local businesses, and no community recovery packages offered.

“The fires came at a time which should have been the peak Grampians tourism period to carry businesses through financially for the rest of the year.

“Our region’s tourism businesses are on their knees.”

• More fire coverage, pages 15-17.

NEW BEGINNINGS: From left, Pippa Holmes, Goldie Kuhne and Hattie Holmes keep cool doing art in the kids’ makers section at Horsham Town Hall’s season launch on Sunday. The event featured the official opening of the revamped Horsham Visitor Information Centre, guided gallery tours, Wesley committee updates, local produce tastings, and backstage tours.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Featuring a line-up of the latest machinery from Fendt, AGCO, Massey Ferguson, Gleaner, Hansa, Vennings, Polaris, Cub Cadet, PTxTrimble, WeedIT, Seed & Forage Bags Australia Pty Ltd, Serafin Machinery, GrainKing, Eagle i Machinery, John Berends Implements, XAGdrones and more!

Training and product demonstrations happening across both days. Fully catered for and drinks are supplied!

Housing on West Wimmera agenda

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

West Wimmera Shire Council is taking steps to address a ‘critical’ housing shortage across the region, applying for $5-million from the State Government’s Regional Worker Accommodation Fund.

Currently, there are only five rental properties available across the entire West Wimmera Shire.

The proposal includes constructing homes in Kaniva and Edenhope on four council-owned properties.

The planned development includes the construction of six new houses, which will be a mix of three and fourbedroom homes.

The funding would also be used for infrastructure to activate another 13

blocks of land, allowing them to be connected to power, water and sewerage services in order to encourage private investment on the sites.

The project also includes a detailed design for a housing development at Kaniva, creating a shovel-ready project that will open up an additional 42 blocks of land.

The proposed location for the development is at the Kaniva aerodrome – the only remaining council-owned land available for development.

Mayor Tim Meyer said a lack of housing was a significant barrier to attracting and retaining workers and residents in the area.

“This is a critical moment for our region,” he said.

“The lack of available housing is not

Councillors take stand

Yarriambiack Shire Council has endorsed a position statement on mining, renewable energy and transmission lines, advocating for legislative reforms to ensure that affected communities in their shire are thoroughly consulted throughout the process.

Cr Corinne Heintze read the recommended motion at last Wednesday’s meeting, endorsing its position and advocating to state and federal governments for significant financial investment in the shire and region if mining and renewable energy projects are approved.

“Multinational companies seem to be intent with forcing renewable energy, transmission lines and mineral sands mining upon our rural communities, all at the same time,” she said.

“There’s so much distrust and growing anger and frustration within communities. Rumours abound, so we as council have put together this document which explains where council stands and what council can do and cannot do.”

Cr Heintze said there were several considerations, including food production to be a priority with ever-increasing world population, that some farmers were happy to host wind turbines to drought-proof their farms, and the community should benefit if transmission lines were to invade the landscapes.

“We don’t need any more studies to demonstrate how we are so often left behind here – roads, rail, health and housing, aged care, childcare,” she said.

“If we are to host any of this infrastructure, we are asking for our fair share of those services, especially

given the contribution that agriculture already makes to Australia’s wealth.”

Mayor Kylie Zanker said council acknowledged the projects’ objectives were to advance Victoria’s clean economy ambitions, to achieve net zero emissions by 2045 and attain 95 per cent renewable energy by 2035.

“If our region is to host renewable energy and mining projects, we ask that legislative reforms are enacted to prevent the displacement of farming families, to protect landowners’ intergenerational bond with their land, and to consider the social wellbeing of the community,” she said.

“We require improved facilities, roads, and a committed investment for both the present and future.”

Cr Zanker said the collaborativelydeveloped statement was a working document, which would change as government policy and big business strategy changed.

“We do represent a diverse view in our municipality – those who support clean energy goals, those who oppose them, and those who feel pressured to take a side or have only one opinion,” she said.

On Tuesday last week, Wimmera Mallee Environmental and Agricultural Protection Association, WMEAP, hosted a public meeting at Warracknabeal.

Dignitaries, members of the public, and police were in attendance.

The not-for-profit group, formed and incorporated by community members and led by president Ross Johns, declared its purpose, in part, ‘to support the protection of the natural environment and ensure the region’s capacity for food production’.

just an inconvenience – it’s a barrier to economic growth and community wellbeing.

“By investing in these developments, we aim to provide immediate relief to the housing crisis while creating opportunities for private investment and long-term growth.”

If the funding application is successful, the council will undertake community consultation to ensure the development meets the needs and expectations of residents.

The council will contribute a further $100,000 towards the project.

Cr Meyer said the new housing would initially accommodate council staff in an effort to alleviate pressure on the local rental market.

The council also plans to encourage

private investment on the serviced additional blocks as part of a longterm solution to the region’s housing challenges.

Cr Meyer said the council worked closely with stakeholders in recent years to identify ways to address housing shortages.

“While challenges remain, this funding application is a significant step towards delivering housing solutions for the West Wimmera community,” he said.

Cr Meyer said the council would provide further updates as the project progressed.

The council announced last month it was ‘actively exploring opportunities’ to address the significant housing shortage that is impacting families,

workers and employers across the region.

Council chief executive David Bezuidenhout said it was investigating funding options from both state and federal governments to invest in housing developments in the shire.

He said housing was one of its most significant challenges.

“Without enough homes, we can’t attract or retain the workers and families we need to grow and thrive,” he said.

“Council is determined to address this issue head-on, and securing external funding is a key part of that strategy.”

Council will meet later this month to discuss the shire’s housing needs and its plans to address the shortage.

Group members have established a website – www.wmeap.com – and a Facebook page; spoken at community meetings, on radio and on a podcast; submitted newspaper articles; and sent more than 160 letters to politicians and councillors regarding their concerns with wind energy projects at Warracknabeal and Wilkur, and Victoria to New South Wales Interconnector West, VNI West.

Member for Mallee Anne Webster commended the community’s efforts.

“This is happening all over Australia, and its farming communities who have not been asked to bear the burden of this new green energy, but rather been told that we will bear it,” she said.

“I want to assure you that I never fail to get up in the party room and argue your case for what is going on in Mallee. My colleagues who are in similar electorates in New South Wales and Queensland do the same, so

I just want you to know, I’ll continue to fight for you.”

Fifth-generation farmer James Burke spoke at the meeting about VNI West’s impact on his property.

“VNI West comes in on the northeast of our farm, and exits on the south-west – we get it right across the middle,” he said.

“It’s a massive thing for us to work around if this ever does go ahead.”

Mr Burke said he also ran a harvesting business, and with his spray-contractor brother, emailed their concerns to Transmission Company Victoria, TCV.

“The trust had been burned for me as far as TCV and what is going on – I went to a meeting in Stawell where I stood up and had the confidence to raise what had actually happened with this email that had been sent back,” he said.

“They asked me to hang around after the meeting to have a further meeting

with the head bosses there at the time, who looked at where our farm was and agreed that it was awful that our family would get possibly 20 towers.

“So they offered to do a behind-thedoor sign, a piece of paper, to shift it onto my neighbours.

“There’s 150-odd years of knowing each other – I was not going to burn my neighbours.

“This is absolute truth. I’ve tried to get them to say it publicly at meetings I’ve been to. They won’t admit it, but it absolutely happened.”

Mr Burke said there did not seem to be a choice in the matter.

“They’re talking about compulsory acquisition. But we’re going to try our best, we’ll be there right till the end,” he said.

“We’ll be there at the gate when they go to start.”

Council’s statement is available online with the January meeting’s minutes. – Bronwyn Hastings

INFORMED: The Wimmera Mallee Environmental and Agricultural Protection Association meeting at Warracknabeal last week attracted a full house.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Are your young workers equipped with the right skills to stay safe?

If you’re an employer, their safety is your responsibility. Would you work for you?

WorkSafe Young Workers

Dimboola set to star in new film

BY LAUREN HENRY

An art exhibition in Dimboola will help raise awareness about Cambodian rock and roll from the 1960s while also raising money for a new movie about Dimboola.

Artist, filmmaker, and cultural advocate, Julien Poulson, will open the Sticky Fingers Art Prints Cambodia: A Cosmic Journey in Pop Art Screen Prints exhibition on February 14.

Poulson will also discuss his new feature film project, Doin’ Alright in Dimboola, which is set to be filmed in and around Dimboola.

The exhibition will provide a sneak peek into the movie, with concept art, storyboards, and behind-the-scenes insights into the film’s development.

Poulson’s connection to Dimboola was by chance.

While researching for his film, he discovered one of his Sticky Fingers prints in the Cambodia Room at the Dimboola Imaginarium, acquired by art enthusiasts Chan and Jamie Uoy.

Business owner Chan Uoy said their support solidified Poulson’s decision to collaborate with Dimboola, which boasts a rich arts history and cinematic legacy –making it an ideal backdrop.

“I was the first Cambodian refugee to arrive in Australia in 1976, so this exhibition is relevant to my heritage and relates to my new life in Dimboola,” he said.

The two-week exhibition will centre on Cambodia’s Golden Era of music, art, and cinema, featuring Poulson’s handmade screenprints blending Khmer icons with global pop culture.

Curated by Dimboola Art Inc., the exhibition showcases Poulson’s pop art, blending retro aesthetics with contemporary storytelling.

The prints honour the likes of Sinn Sisamouth, Ros Sereysothea, and Pan Ron, whose music was nearly erased during the Khmer Rouge era.

The prints also pay homage to global icons such as Elvis Presley and Iggy Pop, merging East and West in a kaleidoscope of colours and imagery.

A standout piece in the collection is the ‘Mara’ print, which depicts one of the first Cambodian dancers to perform in New York.

Poulson’s Mara print is a tribute to both the dancer and the father of pop art artist Andy Warhol, who sketched the dancer, encapsulating their shared moment of creative energy.

Poulson said the exhibition would feature more than 20 of his designs, each depicting ‘a dreamlike journey through the psychedelic sounds and surreal imagery of 1960s Phnom Penh’.

Key pieces include ‘Galaxy Khmer’, a psychedelic ode to Cambodia’s vibrant music scene; ‘Space Apsara’, a cosmic

INSPIRATION: Artist, filmmaker, and cultural advocate, Julien Poulson, who visited Dimboola during its agricultural society show last year, will open Sticky Fingers Art Prints Cambodia: A Cosmic Journey in Pop Art Screen Prints exhibition in Dimboola next week. He is also developing a film set to be based in the town.

reimagining of Cambodia’s celestial dancers; ‘The Golden Voice’, a radiant tribute to Ros Sereysothea, the voice of Cambodia; and ‘Bang Bang: My Baby Shot Me Down’, a bold portrayal of Pan Ron’s audacious spirit.

Movie

The movie promises humour, heart, and cosmic twists, in similar vein to classics like Fargo, Muriel’s Wedding, and Breaking Bad.

Poulson said the movie would blend dark comedy and rural charm, following the story of Ranjit Devi, a lovable yet hapless dreamer from India.

“Ranjit’s quiet life in Dimboola turns wild when he encounters two runaway sisters, Emma and Leanne, fleeing from a dangerous tobacco smuggler ‘The Bulgarian’” he said.

“The chaos intensifies when Leanne steals a prized Chihuahua from Tiffany Weng, a ruthless Chinese art dealer searching for a lost Sidney Nolan painting rumoured to be hidden in Dimboola.

“With an eccentric cast of locals – including Marj, a sharp-tongued postal clerk, and Stew, a stoner mechanic who insists Ranjit’s car has cosmic powers –Ranjit devises an outrageous plan: a Bollywood Cosplay party to raise funds for the sisters’ escape.”

Poulson was in Dimboola during the agricultural society show last year, drawing inspiration from the town’s unique atmosphere and characters.

“Dimboola has this magnetic quality –it’s a place that feels both quintessentially Australian and entirely unique,” he said.

“The name itself is evocative, but it was my visits to the town that truly sealed the deal.”

Poulson said he was struck by the warmth and creativity of the community.

“From the Dimboola Imaginarium to the vibrant local events like the Dimboola Show – there’s a rich history too, from the iconic play and film Dimboola to its connection with Sidney Nolan, one of Australia’s most celebrated artists,” he said.

“The town’s landscapes, its Indigenous heritage, and its quirky subcultures – like Wimmera Steampunk – all contribute to a sense of place that’s ripe for storytelling.

“Dimboola feels like a microcosm of modern regional Australia, where tradition and creativity collide, and I knew it was the perfect setting for a film that blends dark comedy, cosmic chaos, and unexpected heroism.”

The film is currently in the development stage, with the screenplay well underway and a creative team being assembled.

Funding opportunities are also being explored to bring the project to life.

Poulson said he aimed to move into preproduction in the next 12 to 18 months, with filming tentatively planned for late 2025 or early 2026.

The film will add to Poulson’s already decorated career, which started as an art director and producer of music videos, progressing to creating Sumatra, an award-winning short film shot in Darwin, followed by Flicker and Fade, a collaboration with Mark Roy that premiered at the 70th Cannes International Film Festival.

He also co-wrote the musical play The Road to Tibooburra.

Money raised from the exhibition will support the next generation of Cambodian artists working at the Fish Island Community Arts Centre, to help fund Poulson’s film, and enable young Cambodian artists to showcase their designs at the Wimmera Steampunk Festival on April 12.

The exhibition, at Dimboola Shire Hall, will launch at 7pm on February 14.

Casey, Sandra Casey, Erin Wallace

Dream becoming reality

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Horsham’s Smart Artz

Theatre’s ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ performance is bringing wider aspects of the community together, to strengthen community links and for sustainability.

Its October performance will be staged at Horsham Botanic Gardens, which director Maddi Ostapiw visualises will be a ‘beautiful show’.

“We’re working to make it a really gorgeous visual production, as well as trying our best to make the script as legible and understandable to modern audiences,” Ostapiw said.

“Shakespeare wrote a beautiful play that is a chaos of love and laughter and mischief – it is such a beautiful show that has a really unique way of fitting into the gardens.

“I’m also so excited that we’re working with some of who I consider to be professional level artists in their field who live in Horsham – it’s an incredible opportunity.”

Ostapiw said the leading team of designers included Natasha Kuchel, Jessica Wilson, Becky Bone, and Claire Petering, with makeup by Lauren Larkins and hair by Cara Crabb.

“We have so many wonderful people who’ve come along to make this vision and this Midsummer’s dream a reality in our town,” Ostapiw said.

Invite for seniors

Organisers of Horsham’s second Managing the Twilight Years event are urging seniors to suggest topics they want to hear about from the experts.

Horsham Church of Christ will again be the venue for the event, on May 15, from 9.30am to 3pm. Morning tea and lunch are included in the $7 door entry.

Horsham Combined Probus Club attracted more than 180 people from across a wide area for the first seminar in 2023.

Organiser Faye Smith said the day was a resounding success and people had urged a second event while also suggesting topics they wanted included.

Last year’s event heard from many professionals including a retired lawyer, financial advisers, Centrelink senior staff, Grampians Health staff, an undertaker and a minister. All dealt with issues relevant to older people.

“We want to deal with the issues that are causing concern by having the right people on the speaking panel,” Mrs Smith said.

“Older people face many issues, often suddenly, unexpected – and often overwhelming.

“These struggles might include financing the next stage of life, moving dwellings, legal issues, Centrelink’s many programs, information needed after a death, manoeuvring financial arrangements, planning a funeral, setting up powers of attorney and many others.”

“One of my central visions as a director is having something that is just a visual feast – if anybody does get lost in the story for a second or if there is a six-year-old child sitting in the audience who may not be following what’s happening on stage, they’re still going to be looking at a really pretty 1920s or 1930s-inspired fairy,” Ostapiw said.

Co-producer Onella Corray said Smart Artz was pairing with Hor-

Theatre members have sourced second-hand fabric and garments via donations and op-shopping in a bid for sustainability, while creating unique pieces.

sham Agricultural Society to overcome costs, and a shortfall of volunteers.

“We were chatting with Andrea Cross, lamenting the state of volunteers and organisations in Horsham, and ultimately reached an agreement – in exchange for using Maydale as our rehearsal space, we will provide people to help at the 150-kilometre feast and ag show,” she said.

People aged 14 years and older can audition from February 8 to 13 – more information is available at smartartztheatreinc.org.

Co-producer Amy Anselmi said there were a variety of speaking and non-speaking roles.

“We welcome everyone to come and try out – we want to produce something that represents everyone in our community,” she said.

“Rehearsals proper start in July, so the time commitment is no longer than it is for any other play or musical – it’s just that we wanted to give ourselves, as a production team, a heap of lead time because what we’re creating is brand new.”

Mrs Smith said Horsham Rural City Council had given $500 and Horsham Rotary Club $300 to help cover costs.

The day will be broken into 25-minute sessions and some speakers would also be available for personal interviews.

The seminars follow a session run by Upper Class, a seniors’ group at Horsham Church of Christ in 2017 titled – How to Better Help Those Left Behind – with minister Simon Risson and undertaker Trevor Bysouth.

“People wanted more issues covered than could be handled in one session, so that’s how we started Managing the Twilight Years,” Mrs Smith said. She asked people wanting to suggest topics to phone 0427 821 510 or email fayealisonsmith@ gmail.com.

CREATIVE SPACE: From left, Maddi Ostapiw, Andrea Cross, Onella Corray and Amy Anselmi at Maydale Pavilion, where SmartArtz Theatre Company will rehearse. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

JACKPOT JOKER

‘Challenging’ on many fronts

It’s been 51 days since the first bushfire started in the region.

On December 17, lightning strikes set alight the eastern flank of the Grampians National Park, sparking the Yarram Gap fire, which is under control but fire crews remain on site to monitor hotspots, treat hazardous trees, clear tracks and rehabilitate control lines.

Since that time, a new fire in the north of the Grampians – the Wallaby Rocks fire – has began, followed by the Bullawin fire in the Victoria Valley.

It’s likely to result in a majority of the national park being fire-affected, and who knows how long that will take to recover.

To the north-west of our region, there is the Little Desert National Park fire – which forced the evacuation of Dimboola residents last week – and is continuing to threaten surrounding communities, depending on the wind direction.

First and foremost, our thoughts are with the people who have lost property to these fires –whether it be homes, businesses, sheds, equipment or fences.

And then, of course, our emergency services personnel who are working tirelessly in often the most challenging of conditions.

Particularly the Country Fire Authority volunteers who are giving up time away from their lives to help fight these fires.

And then there’s our farmers and landowners who are on constant alert to an impending threat.

It’s been a bloody tough summer – a summer that will be forever remembered for the unprecedented fire threat.

Even for those of us not directly at risk, with different areas shrouded in smoke on and off in the past week, it was a constant reminder of what the region faces.

The base camp set up at Horsham Showground to house visiting firefighters is a welcome sight of support in fighting the fires.

But fatigue is no doubt starting to set in.

Physical fatigue for those on the fire front, but the mental fatigue is probably more prominent.

EDITORIAL

By Lauren Henry

Even listening to the radio, the Standard Emergency Warning Signal, SEWS, played to warn of impending fire risk is starting to just sound like a regular part of programming.

We are praying for a big downpour of rain –which unfortunately doesn’t look likely, according to the weather experts.

In fact, the storms of the past couple of days seem to indicate Mother Nature throwing the exact opposite at us.

‘Challenging’ is a word thrown around a lot by emergency service chiefs, and there is no doubt the fires have thrown out a lot of them.

But it’s not just the fire-front that has been ‘challenging’.

The lack of government support is also ‘challenging’.

Two weeks ago I wrote an editorial calling for the State Government to step up and announce some real financial support for our region.

Since that time, the fire situation has only escalated.

And here we are still waiting for Premier Jacinta Allan to show up and put up.

Premier – it’s been 51 days of various ‘challenges’ thrown at our region, and we are yet to see you on the fireground and meeting directly with those affected.

A fly-over and visit to Horsham’s Incident Control Centre with the Prime Minister on December 29 has not cut it.

But forget about the visit, what our region really needs is for your government to provide real financial assistance, and make the request to the Federal Government to enable them to provide some relief as well.

Ararat opens pop-up library

Upgrades to Ararat Library’s interior furnishings are set to commence early next month.

Ararat Rural City Council will undertake the upgrades in an effort to bring the library in line with community needs following feedback last year.

Upgrades will include flexible mobile shelving for adult fiction and non-fiction areas, similar to mobile shelving in the children’s area, that enable shelves to be moved for flexible space usage; new furniture and quiet spaces for flexible use, including reading and studying on a laptop; replacement carpets and flooring; two additional public-use computers; and modernised signage on the building’s exterior.

This $200,000 project was funded through council’s capital works program.

Mayor Jo Armstrong said the library temporarily closed from February 1 while the upgrades took place, with an expected reopening date of March 3.

In the meantime, a temporary pop-up library

GAINING MOMENTUM: Exhibitor registrations for the annual Western Victorian Careers Expo are now open. Project manager David Crooks, centre, said the event averaged about 2000 attendees from across western Victoria. “The expo is in its 39th year of bringing vocational information to school-leavers, students, families, job-seekers and career-changers of all ages,” he said. “It gives people the opportunity to interact with tertiary institutions and organisations and explore their career options.” This year’s expo is on July 1 at Longerenong Events Centre. People can visit www.wimmeracareerexpo. com for more information or to apply for a site. Mr Crooks is pictured with ACE Radio’s Hugh Dougherty, left, and Thomas Hobbs, who have started their careers in radio in Horsham.

Hindmarsh to host listening sessions

Hindmarsh Shire Council will host listening sessions for people to have a chat with councillors or a staff member and share feedback about what matters in the shire.

The sessions, throughout February across the shire, are intended to be used to inform the 20252026 annual budget, 2025-2028 council plan, and other matters of importance.

Sessions will be between 7pm and 8.30pm at the following locations: Tuesday, February 11 Rainbow Mecca Supper Room; February 12,

Yanac Hall; February 18, Jeparit Memorial Hall; February 19, Nhill council chambers; February 24, Dimboola Library.

Hindmarsh Shire Mayor Ron Ismay said the community expected a high standard of community engagement and consultation.

“Your new council is committed to being accessible, open and actively seeking community input. We hope to see as many of you at these events as possible,” he said.

will open at Ararat’s Alexandra Oval Community Centre to provide continued services to the community.

The pop-up library will include a selection from the library’s existing collection, as well as a dedicated children’s area, free Wi-Fi and public computer access, printing, seating with magazines and papers, and study spaces.

Access to the library’s 24-hour returns chute will be temporarily unavailable while upgrades take place. Patrons can return books to the popup library during opening hours only, which will remain the same as usual library opening hours.

“Recognising the library’s crucial role in promoting learning and community engagement, this upgrade is an investment in the future of our municipality. It will ensure the library remains a modern and accessible facility for all,” Cr Armstrong said.

“We look forward to welcoming the community back to a transformed and inviting space that will better serve their needs.”

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Enough is enough

Here we go again. The blame game’s back on.

On the radio airwaves last week, Premier Jacinta Allan once again blamed floods for the shocking state of our regional roads.

Driving around regional Victoria last week, I was genuinely shocked – again – at the potholes and crumbling surfaces, and it is ridiculous to continually blame rain events.

Victorians already pay some of the highest vehicle registration fees in the country.

So, where’s that money going?

Memo Premier Allan: Forget the excuses and just get on with fixing potholes.

Enough is enough. It’s time for real action to fix our roads and restore safety, not more Labor political spin.

Labor can’t manage roads and regional Victorians are paying the price.

Danny O’Brien, Leader of The Nationals Shadow Minister for Roads and Road Safety

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

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Drive towards a cure for cancer

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Horsham’sGavin Morrow will be among a host of drivers supporting cancer research when he helps spearhead the Drive to Survive tour in March.

cause that touches us all. Whether you’ve got a classic car, a ute, or a family wagon, I encourage everyone to join us on this journey. Together, we can drive towards a cure.”

Sponsorships

Hopetoun and District Historial Society, Jan Stephens, president:

Hopetoun and District Historical Society have used a $1500 grant to buy a computer to help preserve the town’s memories.

President Jen Stephens said the computer has been well utilised.

“What we did prior to getting the computer was use our own systems at home and bring them in, it was very disjointed. Now we can collate the whole collection in one space,” she said.

“The Horsham Sports and Community Club has been an ongoing supporter of ours and what they do for all manner of groups and clubs is very beneficial.” One year for $11 or five years for $50

The three-day tour will see a convoy of vehicles visit three states, raising money for the Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, FECRI, in Ballarat – Australia’s only regional cancer research institute.

The tour starts in Ballarat on Friday, March 28 and travels more than 450 kilometres north to Mildura on the first day, stopping in the Mallee town of Birchip for lunch.

Subsequent days will see participants travel through Wentworth in New South Wales and South Australia’s Barossa Valley, with stops at locations including a winery and Birdwood’s National Motor Museum.

Each participating car must raise a minimum donation of $2000 to FECRI, with opportunities for additional donations during the tour.

FECRI will establish a GoFundMe page for each participating car to help with fundraising.

Mr Morrow, a FECRI board member, said he was excited to participate in the Drive to Survive and encouraged people to consider joining.

“Cancer affects everyone, but through FECRI, we’re making strides in understanding and defeating it,” he said.

“This drive is about bringing people together – families, friends and car enthusiasts – for a

FECRI director George Kannourakis said the tour would bring people together in a common cause.

“This event is about more than just fundraising; it’s about uniting our community to support cutting-edge research,” he said.

“Every kilometre driven and every dollar raised brings us closer to defeating cancer. Together, we can make a real difference.”

Mr Morrow, who was named this year’s Horsham Rural City Council’s Citizen of the Year, has taken part in numerous philanthropic efforts, including raising $25,000 with his brothers by riding old ‘postie’ bikes along the Murray River and organising fundraising events in Horsham.

In addition to his role as chair of the FECRI fundraising committee, Mr Morrow is a member of the Horsham Healthy Minds group, which advocates for mental health awareness and education.

People interested in participating in the Drive to Survive tour can email Mr Morrow at gavin@ morrow.net.au, providing their name, phone number, email address and vehicle type.

In addition to the minimum $2000 entry donation, participants are responsible for travel costs including fuel, food, drinks and accommodation.

the successful

– “Working for the community with

Connection celebration

For the first time in its history, the township of Elmhurst, northeast of Ararat, will be able to access treated drinking water from the tap.

Victorian Water Minister Gayle Tierney last week announced the completion of the $3-million Elmhurst Drinking Water Supply project connecting the town to Grampians Wimmera Mallee, GWM, Water’s supply network.

The project involved the construction of the Elmhurst Water Treatment Plant, GWMWater’s first completely off-grid water-treatment facility.

At an unveiling ceremony of a public drinking fountain outside Elmhurst Mechanics Institute Hall, GWM Water chair Caroline Welsh said the plant was the largest of its type in Australia.

Also attending the opening was Elmhurst resident Geoff Penna who recalled when the town was connected to the electrical grid in 1954.

Ms Tierney said the project would have an array of benefits for the town.

“Elmhurst residents will no longer have to rely on rainwater tanks and bottled water for drinking, washing their vegetables and brushing their teeth,” she said.

“The new Elmhurst Water Treatment Plant is an innovative solution to provide drinking water to smaller regional communities without putting additional pressure on customers’ water bills.”

The award-winning treatment plant features an 85 kilowatt solar array and battery storage, which provides enough renewable energy to power the treatment process, as well as a backup generator if needed.

Ararat Rural City Council Mayor Jo Armstrong said residents would no longer need to depend on rainwater tanks, with clean drinking water now available all year round.

“Our region has faced significant challenges in recent times, including prolonged drought conditions and, of course, the devastating bushfires,” she said.

“Recent delays in crucial infrastructure projects have unfortunately exacerbated the impact of these events, highlighting the need for reliable water connectivity.

“But the resilience shown by our community has been truly remarkable, making us stronger, more united, and better prepared for the future.

“I look forward to seeing the positive effects of this upgrade on our community.”

The next township in line to receive a drinking water connection through GWMWater will be Moyston.

GWMWater representatives have spoken to landholders along the pipeline route, and anticipate publishing a tender call-out in March.

ON TAP: GWMWater mascot Phil the Bucket watches on as GWMWater managing director Mark Williams, Elmhurst local Geoff Penna, GWMWater board chair Caroline Welsh, Member for Ripon Martha Haylett and Ararat Rural City Council Mayor Jo Armstrong unveil Elmhurst’s new drinking water fountain to commemorate

completion of upgrading the town’s water supply with drinking water.

Backing rural GPs

Five people will train to become rural generalist doctors at Grampians Health campuses across the next two years as part of a joint state and federal government program.

The trial of a two-year single-employer model, SEM, will support 15 full-time equivalent rural generalist trainees in Victoria, with five based in the Grampians region and the remaining 10 split between Bairnsdale and Mildura.

Rural generalists are GPs who undertake extra training to deliver a broader range of services to patients in regional, rural and remote parts of Australia.

Under the program, which begins this month, the trainees will be salaried State Government employees, rather than changing employers every six to 12 months with each new GP practice placement.

A spokesperson for federal Senator for Victoria Jana Stewart said the trials ‘aim to address key barriers to attracting and retaining the next generation of GPs’.

“The trials are intended to improve access to general practice services for local communities by increasing GP trainee numbers,” she said.

“Longer-term benefits are expected by encouraging GP trainees to build connections in the communities in which they train.

“The SEM trials provide immediate benefits to participating GPs trainees. For example, a participating trainee will be able to access leave offered under their State Government contract, which may otherwise not be available under

existing employment arrangements with a GP practice.”

Ms Stewart, who grew up in Swan Hill, said access to better healthcare was vital for people living in the country.

“Having grown up in regional Victoria I know how important it is to have quality healthcare services available close to home,” she said.

“Living in regional Victoria is the best. This trial will encourage trainee doctors to build local connections and consider rural and regional Victoria as a destination for a thriving career and their future home.”

Victorian Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said existing SEM trials in New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania and South Australia had received positive feedback from both trainees and general practices.

She said hosting trainees in the Grampians would help general practices attract rural generalist trainees and increase access to medical services for locals.

She said the trial would encourage trainees to build local connections and consider a long-term future in rural, regional and remote medicine.

“Rural generalists play an essential role in our rural and regional healthcare system by providing the primary, emergency and other medical specialist care Victorians need, closer to home,” she said.

“We are working closely with the commonwealth to build a stronger and more skilled rural generalist workforce to deliver better services for Victorians in both hospitals and primary care.”

are

Medical students ready for work

A crop of fresh faces will appear at Wimmera Base Hospital, Lister House’s Horsham and Natimuk medical clinics and other health centres as part of an ongoing partnership between Deakin University and Horsham.

Deakin’s Rural Community Clinical School, RCCS, sees third-year medical students undertake 12-month placements in rural locations, including Horsham.

Deakin University Horsham liaison Nanette Freckleton said the students would gain valuable hands-on experience across a range of areas.

“They’ll be at Lister House, they’ll be at the hospital, they’ll be at the Natimuk centre and they’ll move through different areas like oncology and dialysis, and medical and surgical,” she said.

“The partnership has been going for 10 or 12 years through Deakin and they’ve put a good number of students through this community rural setting.”

Deakin medical student Harry McLeod said he found Horsham an inviting location after growing up in Melbourne.

“I’ve been here for a fortnight and it’s been great. I haven’t lived rurally much. Prior to this, the most rural I’d lived was in Torquay for my first two years of medicine, which is not really rural at all,” he said.

“So far I’m really enjoying it. Everyone has been so friendly. Even just walking past people, they’ll give you a wave, and if you say something at a cafe they’ll say g’day.

“Everyone at the hospital has been super accommodating as well.”

Fellow medical student Emmesyn Hassett, who grew up in Colac, said she was attracted to working in rural and regional settings.

“I knew I wanted to be rural, so I was part of the rural training stream in Horsham for this year and then Ballarat next year,” she said.

“I moved to Horsham at the start of November and I love it. My family have had to travel a lot for medical appointments and specialists, so I always wanted to do medicine and then come back to a rural town.

“Hopefully it’s one more doctor that means one less person has to travel further.”

Zoe Burns decided to study medicine after previously completing a psychology degree and working as a healthcare administrator.

She said she was thoroughly enjoying her experience in the program as a mature-age student.

“I always wanted to get into medicine but life always got in the way and steered me in different directions,” she said.

“Finally I said ‘that’s it, it’s time to do medicine’, so I applied and got into Deakin.

“I liked the fact there were more mature students and the rural focus, because for me I love the idea of the small-town doctor who knows everybody from birth.

“It’s continuative care that you don’t have when you’re in the big cities, where it’s much more consumer-based medicine.”

Ms Freckleton said it was her job to help the students settle into their new location.

“I’m a person who catches up with them and I can liaise with Deakin for them,” she said.

“You could call me their mum in Horsham.”

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ON THE JOB: Deakin University third-year medical students, Emmesyn Hassett, Zoe Burns and Harry McLeod,

doing their placement in Horsham. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

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It’s why the VCE’s new Vocational Major creates worlds where passions can be explored.

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Summer fire fury Summer fire fury Leader: Extend an invitation

BY LAUREN HENRY

Tourism leader Marc Sleeman has called on the region’s residents to help boost the local economy in the wake of the bushfires.

The Grampians Wimmera Mallee Tourism chief executive said tourism industry spokespeople were working with local government representatives to reiterate the conditions to the State Government, but were waiting on the State Government to announce a support package.

“The fires that are happening at the moment are also impacting the broader region in terms of perception and the broader consumer understanding of whether a region is open or closed, which is causing ongoing concerns for businesses across the region,” he said.

“This isn’t just a tourism issue. This is a broader issue that’s affecting agriculture, retail and of course tourism, so I think there’s going to be consideration for a broader approach on how we look at recovery and what those needs will be.”

Mr Sleeman asked all the region’s residents to invite family and friends to the Grampians and WimmeraMallee for a weekend away or holiday.

“We know that 30 per cent of all our visitors into the Grampians

region are visiting friends and relatives – and right now the community can play a really big role in those early stages of recovery,” he said.

“Every local community member resident can be a host with the most and play a proactive role in visiting, and inviting friends and relatives back into the region.”

Mr Sleeman said the  stop-start approach to marketing was a challenge.

“Putting a pause on and then restarting again is causing us concerns just around building momentum for supporting businesses,” he said.

The Grampians region is now in day 51 of the recovery since the Yarram Gap fire broke out on December 17 – but for many businesses in Pomonal and Halls Gap, they were still feeling the effects of last year’s February fire.

Mr Sleeman said he compared the impact to COVID lockdowns – when the region suffered heavily due to a downturn in visitors.

“ The impacts on businesses within 100 kilometres of the national park is like COVID locking us all down again, which is really challenging moving forward,” he said.

“ There was a small uptick of visitation for the Australia Day long weekend, which was great for operators across the region who had prepared for that weekend, but it

certainly hasn’t been enough to repair any of the damage that closure of the peak holiday period has caused for businesses.”

Mr Sleeman said GWMTourism was advocating for immediate destination marketing support, small business support for businesses directly impacted, and for future major events in the region.

He said the GWMTourism board would meet this week to discuss a long-term approach.

“We are continuing to advocate very loudly to all of our State Government partners and ensuring that all of our State Government is aware of the impacts – and they are clearly aware –we have articulated the concerns we have about the economic

“We know that 30 per cent of all our visitors into the Grampians region are visiting friends and relatives – and right now the community can play a really big role in those early stages of recovery”

– Marc Sleeman, left

impacts on businesses across the region,” he said.

“We continue to work with our local government partners in advocating for not just short-term but ongoing support.

“This is going to be a marathon recovery for our region and we will stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our businesses and our industry partners to make sure that their concerns are heard and that we’re representing our partners to all parties.”

Mr Sleeman said it was not just Grampians businesses affected by bushfires, with the Little Desert fire impacting businesses in Dimboola and across Hindmarsh Shire.

“This is a Grampians and Wimmera Mallee recovery and the State Government is fully aware of the impacts that the fires had on Dimboola and other small towns in Hindmarsh particularly,” he said.

Support services

Trauma counselling, general counselling and mental health support services are available for anyone affected by the fires across the Wimmera and Grampians.

Free, confidential wellbeing support services are available for people 24 hours a day, seven days a week, year-round.

The following services offer confidential support for anyone feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or in need of someone to talk to: Lifeline, phone 13 11 14; Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636; Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800; and Rural Financial Counselling 1300 735 578.

The ‘Road to Resilience’ podcast also provides helpful information about supporting people in the face of concurrent and compounding events and is available at www.dffh. vic.gov.au/recovery.

Services within the region include: Grampians Area Mental Health Service, Access and Triage team: 1300 247 647; Step Thru Care Wimmera Grampians, delivered by Uniting VicTas: 5362 4000; Grampians Community Health: 5358 7400; Horsham Mental Health and Wellbeing Hub: 1300 375 330; headspace Horsham: 5381 1543; Goolum Goolum Aboriginal Co-operative: 5381 6301; Budja Budja Social and Emotional Wellbeing Centre: 5356 4751, Halls Gap; 5352 6700, Ararat.

The risk of family violence is heightened following a natural disaster.

For people in need of help, there is a wide range of family violence support services available. Call triple zero in an emergency or if you or someone else is in immediate danger.

Other services include: The Orange Door, Horsham: phone 1800 354 322; 1800 RESPECT: 1800 737 732; Safe Steps, phone 1800 015 188; for Aboriginal people, Djirra: 1800 105 303.

Summer fire fury Summer fire fury Collaboration in Dimboola recovery

BY LAUREN HENRY

As Dimboola recovers from the Little Desert bushfires, its businesses and clubs have set about thanking firefighters for saving their town.

Big Bertha food truck fundraised more than $4000 to give out icecreams to firefighters, while Dimboola Store received donations to pay for coffees for emergency services workers.

Dimboola Urban Fire Brigade lieutenant Ash Wallace said firefighting efforts were well-supported.

“I was amazed that within a couple of hours of the fire starting, there were so many resources brought to the job to look after it and our people – it was not just Dimboola volunteers on their own,” he said.

“As a brigade, we are appreciative of the people who have come from far and wide to maintain the sustainability of the brigade.”

The fire, which started on January 27 from lightning strikes, burnt down the Little Desert Nature Lodge and one home, along with three-quarters of the national park.

It continues to burn south-west towards Goroke and Nurcong, with multi-agency crews battling a now 90,500-hectare blaze.

Initially the fire forced the quick evacuation of Dimboola on the night

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of January 27, with residents allowed to return to the town the next day.

The Dimboola Riverside Holiday Park remains closed as it provides support accommodation for emergency services, while Hindmarsh Shire Council has advised the boat ramps along the Wimmera River are closed until further notice.

Council has also warned people to remain clear of fire-affected areas, as they may not be safe due to the debris, falling trees and branches, and emer-

gency and recovery vehicles requiring clear access.

Assessments on various fire-affected areas are still being completed, and council has established a survey to gather information on the economic impact of the fires.

Council chief executive Monica Revell said the council was collaborating with partner agencies, including Emergency Recovery Victoria, Regional Development Victoria, and Parks Victoria, to understand the chal-

lenges and guide recovery efforts.

“This disaster has caused significant devastation across the shire, affecting the economy, ecology, environment, and the physical and mental health of the community,” she said.

“Your input is essential for shaping informed strategies for immediate recovery and building long-term resilience.”

She encouraged people to complete the survey at www.hindmarsh.vic.gov. au/economic-impact-survey.

Hindmarsh Shire Council has set up recovery centres at Dimboola and Nhill this week, with community information sessions with advice on preparing for emergencies and supporting vulnerable residents scheduled for 2pm and 5pm at Dimboola Old Shire Hall.

There will also be a community meeting at Dimboola Library at 6pm tomorrow, Thursday, to give people an update about the Little Desert fire.

Emergency relief payments are available for eligible community members, whose homes have been affected by the Little Desert bushfires.

Emergency relief payments are designed to provide immediate financial help for eligible people experiencing financial hardship due to the bushfires to help pay for essentials such as food, clothing, medication and accommodation.

Golf course

About half of the Dimboola Golf Club course burnt in the fire, but its clubrooms and sheds were saved.

Club president Nick Pietsch said firefighters and people on private units helped to save the clubhouse.

But he was optimistic the course would re-open in time for the season in April.

“Probably half the course has been impacted by the fire, so there’s going to be a lot of cleanup work,” he said.

“It’s still closed to the public so as soon as things are opened up and it’s safe to do so, we’ll get all our volunteers in there and start cleaning up.”

Mr Pietsch said chef Cat Clarke, who started a restaurant at the golf club late last year, had been forced to temporarily close her business.

“It’s very disappointing and hard on her – to think she’s only just started a couple of months ago,” he said.

“It’s impacted her pretty hard, but hopefully she can get back on her feet and continue on with what she’s been doing.

“It’s been good for the club, good for Dimboola, and obviously good for Cat and her staff.”

Ms Clarke will be hosting a pop-up chef’s table from The Victoria Hotel, Dimboola, on Sunday.

UNITED: Horsham Fire Brigade members, from left, Curtis Vanstan, Claire Longstaff, Emma King and Pacer Kilpatrick prepare to work on the Little Desert Fire at Dimboola last month. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Summer fire fury Summer fire fury

Base camp home for 250 firefighters

Horsham

Showground is home to a base camp catering for up to 250 firefighters from across Victoria and interstate.

The tent city was installed within 48 hours late last week, with firefighters arriving on Sunday to be deployed out to either the Grampians or Little Desert fires.

There are 250 tents – most in the five air-conditioned marquees on site, but some are out in the open, plus firefighters have access to a laundry, showers, toilets, a dining area and a recreation room with televisions.

“It’s a little tent city,” Base camp manager  Barbara Bednarek said.

“We are housing 250 firefighters here. So we sleep them, feed them and get them out on the fire ground.

“This is the only base camp at the moment, and a lot of other crews are spread around in motels, caravan parks, and anywhere else they could house them to try and get them as close to the fires as possible.”

Ms Bednarek said firefighters received breakfast, lunch and dinner – all catered in the brand-new, specially-designed kitchen.

“We normally provide them lunch packs to go with them, and if they’re out there longer than what we expect, we then do meal packs for them and send those meal packs out to them because we don’t want them coming back really late at night and then eating,” she said.

Ms Bednarek said while the tents, showers and toilets came from Altona, local contractors were used where possible.

“We’ve sourced plumbers and electricians locally because of tents that are cooled, we needed to run plumbing to them, obviously electricity to them so everything’s working,” she said.

“We try to use as many local businesses

GRATEFUL: Andrew Crawford and Geoff Ballinger serve firefighter Dan Dyson at base camp at Horsham Showground. Firefighters receive breakfast, lunch and dinner –all catered in a brand-new, speciallydesigned kitchen.

Lop

as possible to help us set this up.”

Ms Bednarek thanked Horsham Agricultural Society, particularly executive officer Andrea Cross, for their assistance.

“Having that local knowledge here is absolutely fantastic,” she said.

“These are great facilities. It’s the fact that normally we would have to put up an extra big marquee for the mess, which is where they eat.”

Mrs Cross said it was confirmed on Thursday that base camp would be set up at the showground.

“By that afternoon, the trucks, with equipment, were starting to move in,” she said.

“It has demonstrated to us as an organisation how valuable our little spot here on the river, in the heart of town, is.

“It started off maybe they were using about a hectare – now it’s grown to probably two and a half hectares of space they’re using for bedding down 250 firefighters.

“It really highlights the fact that this precinct here is a valuable service to the community in times of emergency. I guess a real highlight for me was one of the firefighters said he’s fought fires throughout Australia and Canada and said this is the best base camp he’s ever been to.”

Mrs Cross said Maydale Pavilion would still be used for the food and wine festival, 150km Feast, on February 22-23.

“It’s not going to have an impact on the feast, I’ve just had to go to plan C for the food truck and wine festival, so that’s the beauty of this space – that we can continue to be flexible, which they definitely need to be,” she said.

“When you’ve got an emergency like this, you’ve literally got to just step aside and let them do what they have to do to keep us all safe.”

Mrs Cross put a call-out on Sunday for

volunteers to help assist at the firefighters’ meal times.

“I think community also want to help with these calamities, unless you’re involved in the fire front, people want to help and base camp is quite different to fire refuges because this is a professionally run operation and the opportunity to help is quite rare,” she said.

“I’m just hoping the community can also get behind us with our feasts and make it worth our while so that we can continue doing the good work that we do here – as it’s a major source of income for us.”

ON TRACK: Base camp manager  Barbara Bednarek ensures facilities and food are prepared for 250 firefighters at Horsham Showground. Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

Cole, Harvey set for Charlegrark

Duo Beccy Cole and Adam Harvey will headline this year’s Lake Charlegrark Country Music Marathon, a family-friendly event that will also feature market stalls, food and free paddock camping.

Marketing manager Paula Gust said Harvey had played at the family-friendly event previously.

“It’s great to have artists who can come back, and everyone is pretty excited to have Beccy Cole and Adam Harvey as our duo headliners,” she said.

“We’ve got quite a few big names – The Austins, Sandra Humphries, and then there’s the every year ones, the stalwarts who everybody knows and loves, like Graham Hugo and Rodney Vincent. They put on quite a show.”

The 32nd annual three-day event begins on Friday, February 14, and will also feature Connie Kis Andersen, Lance Birrell, Don Costa, Leah Briggs, Gavin Chandler, Oz Quo, and backing bands Heartland and Roadhouse.

Weekend passes are available online, at a cost of $100 plus booking fee, or at the gate for $120. Children under the age of 15 can enter free of

charge. This year there is a special ticket price for late-comers: from 6.30pm on Saturday, tickets are $70, but entry to the event and the camping area must be after 6.30pm.

“Tickets are still available, of course, but we do find that there’s a bit of a rush towards the home stretch before the event,” Ms Gust said.

“We have found in the past couple of years that the audience is changing. It was typically the 30s and 40s and above, but we have seen a lot more younger ones wanting to come.

“It’s a unique event with a great atmosphere – free camping and a whole weekend of entertainment – and being right by the lake, people can jump in for a swim and still hear the music.”

Ms Gust said future events rely on the success of each year’s volunteer-run community event.

“The more the merrier – it makes for a great atmosphere, the more people we have there, the more chance we’ll be able to continue having it year after year.”

People can follow the event’s Facebook page for updates, and its website www.lccmm.com.au for tickets and information.

Smith to support Rural Councils

Yarriambiack Shire Council chief executive Tammy Smith will take on the role of treasurer of Rural Councils Victoria this year.

Cr Robert Amos, Campaspe Shire, has been elected as the new chair, while Cr Kate Makin, Corangamite Shire, is the new deputy chair. Rural Councils Victoria is governed by a committee comprising two representatives from each local government region.

For each region, one representative is an elected councillor, and the other is a council officer.

Other office holders include Hepburn Shire Council chief executive Bradley Thomas. Rural Councils Victoria, RCV, represents communities across the state’s 33 rural council areas.

Tammy

Smith

Buangor stables set for repair

The historic former Cobb and Co stables at Buangor will be restored after sustaining water damage during flooding in 2022.

Ararat Rural City Council secured a State Government grant to repair the stables, which were initially constructed in the 1860s and served as a coach and livery station.

More recently, the bluestone building has hosted weddings, birthdays and community events.

Proposed repair works to the state heritagelisted site include replacing damaged guttering, downpipes, and roofing to prevent future water damage from extreme weather.

Mayor Jo Armstrong said the repair works

would prioritise safeguarding the site’s cultural heritage, improving flood risk management, and support community resilience and heritage appreciation.

“The Cobb and Co staging stables are an iconic landmark in Buangor,” she said.

“This restoration project will ensure this valuable historic asset and important piece of our local heritage is preserved for the long-term enjoyment of the community.”

The council will receive up to $60,000 from the State Government’s Disaster Recovery Heritage Grants Program to complete the project.

RETURNING: Beccy Cole and Adam Harvey will headline this year’s Lake Charlegrark Country Music Marathon.

Great Western’s time to shine

Great Western was the place to be on the Australia Day long weekend, offering a variety of events to entertain.

The Seppelt Great Western Cup on Saturday January 25; the Great Western Show and Shine on Sunday, January 26, along with a packed line-up of wine experiences, live music, and masterclasses, the weekend showcased what the town has to offer.

The annual weekend drew more than 2000 visitors to the wine district.

Great Western Enterprises chief executive Bruce Ahchow said the weekend brought together the best of Great Western’s racing, winemaking, and hospitality.

Starting with the Great Western Cup, a racing tradition for more than 145 years, racegoers soaked up the trackside atmosphere, while those in the Seppelt VIP Marquee enjoyed the ultimate race-day experience.

“With another sell-out crowd in the marquee, demand for 2026 is already building, with the waitlist now open for those looking to lock in their spot early,” he said.

“While the races were the centrepiece, the long weekend offered plenty of ways to celebrate Great Western’s winemaking heritage.

“Wineries across the region – including Seppelt, Best’s Wines, and Grampians Estate – welcomed visitors for tastings, masterclasses and live music that showcased the craftsman-

Mamma

ship and tradition behind the region’s most iconic drops.

“From Best’s Wines’ laid-back platters and local produce pairings to Grampians Estate’s Sparkling Shiraz Masterclasses, each winery brought its own flavour to the weekend, offering visitors a chance to experience the best of the Grampians’ wine scene.”

The Show and Shine was a celebration of classic cars, bringing a different kind of horsepower to Great Western.

With gleaming chrome, vintage

models, and muscle cars lining the streets, the event drew car enthusiasts and families.

It also played an important role in supporting community clubs, offering them a chance to raise money that will benefit the Great Western community throughout the year.

Organisers have now turned their attention to next year’s events, solidifying Great Western’s reputation as a destination where racing, wine, and community spirit comes together.

Mia cast revealed

Ararat Regional Theatre Society is excited to announce the cast for this year’s production of Mamma Mia.

More than 40 people auditioned for the 12 main roles and the cast, including ensemble and children, is expected to exceed 50 people from across the region, including Ararat, Stawell, Horsham, Warracknabeal and Beaufort.

The cast includes Maree Fraser, as Donna Sheridan; Imogene Tonks, Sophie Sheridan; Russell Purdie, Sam Carmichael; Tim O’Donnell, Bill Austin; Scott Rigby, Harry Bright; Daniel McCready, Sky; Jodie Holwell, Tanya Chesham-Leigh; Faye Johns, Rosie Mulligan; Zyggie Fraser, Lisa; Abbey Rigby, Ali; Noah Wineberg, Pepper; Evee Cosgriff, Eddie; Karinda Atkins, priest; and Jo Rigby, Yiayia.

Director Emily Friedrichsen said it was a difficult selection process with so many talented people auditioning for the coveted roles.

“Mamma Mia is such a popular and loved show, particularly because it

features so many ABBA songs interwoven with the story, and attracted a huge number of auditionees,” she said.

“The selection of the female cast was very difficult given the phenomenal talent that auditioned from across the region, some of the hardest decisions I’ve had to make in any of my directorial positions over the years.

“I am confident our lead cast and our hugely talented ensemble will bring Mamma Mia to life, our audiences are going to be blown away.”

Rehearsals start at 7pm on Tuesday at Ararat Scout Hall, with all lead cast, ensemble and children required to attend this first rehearsal.

Ms Friedrichsen said it was not too late if people wanted to be part of the ensemble – they can attend the first rehearsal.

Mamma Mia will be staged at Ararat Town Hall with eight performances across three weekends – June 20-22, 27-29 and July 4-5.

EXCITED: Ararat Regional Theatre Society’s Mamma Mia cast, including, back from left, Faye Johns, Tim O’Donnell, Maree Fraser, Russell Purdie, Jodie Holwell and Scott Rigby, and front, Abbey Rigby, Zyggie Fraser, Imogene Tonks, Daniel McCready and Evee Cosgriff.

ON SHOW: Emma Bourke and daughter Mackenzie Bourke, 6, soak up the atmosphere and Great Western’s Show and Shine.

EYE-CATCHING: Jeff Rickard with his 1972 Corvette Stingray.

CLASSICS: Andrew Thompson, Bruce Turrell and Wally Boyd catch up at Great Western’s Show and Shine. Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

Recognition of outstanding service

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

The Pomonal community last week honoured the efforts of the town’s fire brigade, which has fought major fires in each of the past two summers.

Pomonal Country Fire Authority, CFA, members helped protect the region from bushfires in February 2024, as well as a blaze in Grampians National Park that started in late December and continues to burn.

On Monday last week, the brigade’s members were lauded for their efforts at an Australia Day awards ceremony at Pomonal Town Hall.

CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan attended the event and awarded Pomonal Fire Brigade captain Steve Field with a Special Recognition Award – the highest of its kind in CFA – for his firefighters’ outstanding service.

“It is a known risk to CFA members that at some stage you may face a situation in which your own property is under threat from fire, and with that comes the unenviable dilemma of having to choose to either focus your efforts on yourself or protect the broader community,” Mr Heffernan said.

“On February 13, 2024 and in the days that followed, members of the Pomonal Fire Brigade faced this precise predicament as a fire event that would eventually claim some 47

HONOUR: Pomonal Fire Brigade members were celebrated during an Australia Day awards ceremony, which included CFA Special Recognition, Chief Officer’s Commendation and service awards.

homes, devastating their community.

“In the midst of this large-scale incident, the local members conducted themselves with great professionalism and demonstrated complete selflessness as they continued working tirelessly at the fire front.

“Their consistent presence on scene and the support provided to the public was widely felt and greatly appreciated by the community, who are proud

to have such dedicated CFA members at their service.”

Monday’s ceremony also saw Ararat group officer David Coad and Ararat deputy group officer Matt Venn receive the Chief Officer’s Commendation.

Mr Coad was recognised for his actions in February 2024, while Mr Venn’s leadership as the group strike team leader was also lauded.

“In a time of great distress for the Pomonal community, David, Matt and their fellow brigade members demonstrated to the highest level, the spirit of CFA and I couldn’t be prouder as chief officer,” Mr Heffernan said.

“David Coad put the welfare of members and the local community at the forefront of his actions, and it has been noted with much respect and admiration.

Community-minded Jagger leaves lasting legacy

OBITUARY

Donald Thomas Jagger

April 4, 1941 – November 23, 2024

Don Jagger was born in Horsham at Wemberely Chambers, the only son of Pimpinio farmers Alec and Connie and a brother to Nancy.

He attended Pimpinio State School and Dimboola Memorial High School before starting his working life as a farm labourer.

Mr Jagger joined the railways, had a short stint as a baker, drove trucks and later worked in the insurance industry for many years.

He retired from his position as a business development manager with MGA Insurance Brokers in March last year due to ill health.

In 1962 Mr Jagger married Doreen Martino and the couple had three children; Russell, Christine and Matthew.

He was involved in many community groups, including as president and life member of Pimpinio Cricket Club, president and treasurer of Pimpinio Football and Netball Club,

and secretary, life member and tribunal chairman of Horsham District Football League.

He was also a trustee of Pimpinio Cemetery Trust, chairman of Wimmera Nursing Home support group, a member of Horsham Cricket Association’s hall of fame, and was part of Wimmera Shooting Sports Council and Sporting Shooters Association of Australia’s Horsham branch.

Mr Jagger was a Justice of the Peace since 1992, a life member of the Wimmera branch and a fellow of the Royal Victorian Association of Honorary Justices.

An avid reader, Mr Jagger also enjoyed the outdoors and the friendships it fostered in like-minded mates, while fox shooting, fishing and camping.

He is survived by his sister Nancy; his children and their spouses Fiona, Jeff Umbers, and Sharni; and grandchildren Tom, Alec and Eliza; Tyler, Ryan and Jarrod Umbers; and Riley, Cooper and Aiden.

“David exuded calmness and confidence from day one of the fire and provided exceptional operational leadership and communication to fire crews and other responding agencies.

“Despite his own home and that of fellow community and brigade members being under threat, Matt Venn conducted himself with great professionalism, care and concern.

“He was instrumental in key decisions and his efficient manner ensured the effective planning of resources, personnel, logistics, and the recovery effort.”

During the ceremony, district 16 assistant chief fire officer Steve Alcock also presented nine CFA service awards, ranging from 10 years to 45 years.

A further five brigade members were also acknowledged for their service, awarded 30 to 65-year CFA life member awards, alongside a National Emergency Medal to David Gething for his work during the 2019-20 bushfires.

More information about the efforts of the Pomonal volunteers and Ararat group members, along with their reflections on the February 2024 bushfires, is available on the CFA website at news.cfa.vic.gov.au/news/pomonalvolunteers-reflect-on-the-devastatingfebruary-fires.

New round of grants opens

The Federal Government is encouraging groups across western Victoria to apply for a new round of grants under its Stronger Communities Programme.

The program distributes grants of between $2500 and $20,000 to organisations to deliver infrastructure that encourages participation in local initiatives and enhances community engagement and vibrancy.

Grant amounts for small capital projects can cover up to 100 per cent of eligible project costs, except for local governments, which will only be eligible to receive up to 50 per cent of costs. The maximum total cost of a project cannot exceed $50,000.

Expressions of interest close on February 14 at 5pm, followed by a panel process to select application to progress to stage two, which will see applicants invited to submit a full application online before March 28. People can visit www.infrastructure. gov.au for details.

Schedule a free health check

What began as a routine pap smear for Leah Briggs set into motion a chain of events that currently see her recovering from her second of eight rounds of chemotherapy.

Ms Briggs, 38, is now encouraging women from Edenhope and the surrounding region to schedule a health check after a shock stage-two breast cancer diagnosis.

She said she wanted to share her story to encourage women to book health checks through Breast Screen Victoria, which has partnered with Grampians Health Edenhope to deliver free appointments until February 14.

“That moment, when I found out I had cancer, I saw my life flash before me and thought of all the stuff I’d wasted time on,” she said.

“My whole lifestyle has changed, in a good way now; this is a new leaf for me.”

Ms Briggs has since delivered flowers to the doctor who took the time to explore all facets of her health.

“I am so lucky I happened to land Dr Sophie Rymill that day,” she said.

“She asked about my health history

and ordered a series of blood tests, just because – she is an astounding doctor.”

The consultation with Dr Rymill led Ms Briggs to book a mammogram, which led to the discovery of three lesions in her breast, as well as cancerous cells in her milk ducts and lymph nodes.

On reflection, Ms Briggs said she saw signs something was wrong in her body, but was too busy caring for her children while balancing work as an ambulance community officer and musical performer, to act on them.

Now she is encouraging others not to ignore warning signs.

“My breasts were feeling a bit hot and heavy, but I put that down to weight gain or hormones,” she said.

“I didn’t think anything of it and probably still wouldn’t know, if I hadn’t responded to that letter telling me to book a routine pap smear.

“For the first time ever, I’m listening to my body. When I feel good, I’m making the most of it; I’m not wasting any more time in this life.”

People can book a free 45-minute women’s health appointment in Edenhope until February 14 by calling 9675 0050.

surrounding region to schedule a free health check with

Council backs Dimboola swimming pool upgrades

Hindmarsh Shire Council is seeking support to develop Dimboola Swimming Pool.

Council commissioned aquatic engineering reports on its four pools – in Nhill, Jeparit, Rainbow and Dimboola – in 2023, which showed significant work and funding would be needed to keep them operational.

Regional Community Sports Infra-

structure funding last year included outdoor aquatic facilities as an option, and Dimboola’s pool meets its criteria, with its largest customer base.

Council’s proposed works include a wet deck conversion to the pool, installation of a balance tank and in-pool hydraulics, a filtration upgrade to meet Department of Health

and Human Services requirements, a crack and expansion joint repair, and the construction of an all-abilities access ramp.

At its December meeting, council resolved to make an application under round two of RCSIF for the Dimboola pool upgrade, with the total project cost up to $1.1-million, and made a commitment of $275,000

as council contribution. Council’s grant application will be strengthened through demonstrated community support for the project. People are encouraged to complete a community support response form, available on the shire’s website, www. haveyoursay.hindmarsh.vic.gov. au/proposed-dimboola-swimmingpool-upgrades.

Councils secure youth programs

Hindmarsh and Yarriambiack shire councils have secured funding for State Government Engage! and FReeZA programs for the next three years, which will support youth entertainment, leadership and training opportunities.

Yarriambiack Shire Council received $150,000 to deliver its Building Youth Leadership for the shire’s Future project at the shire’s three secondary colleges, run by Western Bulldogs Community Foundation.

Hindmarsh’s Engage! program will continue to empower young people to co-design and deliver activities that build skills and confidence, and encourage creativity, while the FReeZA funding will allow council to support music events, school holiday activities, and training opportunities for young people.

Youth councillors play an important role in leading the development and delivery of activities through the Engage! and FReeZA programs.

“With the help and funding from FReeZA and Engage! Hindmarsh Shire youth councillors are able to put on fun and exciting events for young people,” youth councillor Lilly Williams said.

“Without it, these events that help us develop social skills, improve our mental health and get us out of our comfort zone, would not happen.”

Yarriambiack chief executive Tammy Smith said the Building Youth Leadership Program aimed to empower young people aged 12 to 18 through leadership training, mentorship and community projects.

“The project’s objectives include building leadership skills by offering workshops decided by youth and may include public speaking, teamwork, and project management,” she said.

LIFE CHANGING: Following a shock cancer diagnosis, Leah Briggs is encouraging women from Edenhope and

Grampians Health Edenhope.

To participate, each car must raise a minimum of $2000 which will be donated to FECRI. This tour is all about raising money and having fun at the same time. Each day will have a theme and a ‘Whats App’ group post will be set up to provide information along the way. To

Delivering healthy choices

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Health foods supermarket Nu Life is celebrating 50 years of business in Horsham this year, supplying people with diet and lifestyle-specific items.

Eleven-year owner Steve Grose, with a lifelong interest in health food and a background in supermarkets and merchandising, prides himself on being able to supply people with raw, untouched, healthy foods.

“It’s just a healthy supermarket really, you’ve got everything from bulk food, bulk home and personal care – complete retail ranges,” he said.

“We have virtually every pantry food and supplement, sports and everything, and we also try to source particular foods for people.

“That’s half of what we do, carefully selecting our range by request.

“Invariably it’s going to stay on the shelf, because it’s filling a niche that we didn’t have, then you see how it sells from there.

“That’s how we get a lot of products in and increase our range, it works out quite well from that aspect.”

Mr Grose said the size of the store was limiting, but he was planning on renovating later this year.

“It is really hard, crammed into a tiny little shop, but later this year I’ll be knocking out a wall to open up the retail section a bit. It just needs a bit more planning,” he said.

“But it’s working well as it is; we style ourselves with a more homely approach.

“Primarily, it’s about helping people, that’s where we’re at.”

Nu Life, at 50A Pynsent Street, sources quality foods from as-local-as-possible suppliers, with people able to choose from small, self-serve amounts to buying in bulk.

Long-term goals

P

eople can find support to stay longer in their own homes, right their holiday eating wrongs, and find support groups, among Rural Northwest Health’s services.

Assisting people across the Warracknabeal, Hopetoun and Beulah areas, the service offers a range of medical specialists and wellbeing programs.

Health promotion co-ordinator Tif Devasia said staff were pleased to help people take control of their health and wellbeing this year.

“Whether you’ve made a new year’s resolution, or the time has come to take charge of your health and wellbeing, 2025 can be the year you thrive,” she said.

“If you’ve over-indulged over the holidays, or would just like to get healthy, our dietitians can guide you on making healthier choices for longterm health.”

The service also offers a social activity program for people over the age of 65, for connection over coffee, cards, cooking, bowls, bingo and lunch.

“All our services are aimed at helping people of all ages retain their independence and connection – as part of our planned activity groups for a social outlet, or as part of our cancer support group which, through shared experiences, helps members navigate the cancer journey,” Ms Devasia said.

The service also employs occupational therapists, podiatrists, physiotherapists, radiographers, speech pathologists, diabetes educators, social workers and asthma educators, while providing wellbeing for cardiac and dementia patients. Community care offers domestic assistance, centre-based meals, meals-on-wheels, personal care and property maintenance so people can stay in their homes longer, or during times of shortterm injury or illness.

“If you’re eager to make 2025 your year and would like to find out more, please give our friendly team a call,” Ms Devasia said. People can find more information via website rnh.net.au, or by calling 5396 1200.

ANNIVERSARY YEAR: Nu Life is celebrating 50 years of business in Horsham this year, with owner Steve Grose actively involved for the past 11 years.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

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Journey from surviving to thriving

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Stawell’s Ree O’Riley has lost more than 68 kilograms and gained a zest for life she did not know she was missing, after health issues brought her close to death.

Ms O’Riley said she had battled with her weight for most of her life, and a car accident resulting in chronic pain, restricting her physical ability and resulting in more weight gain.

She said as much as she hated her circumstance, she had accepted it.

“I just thought ‘this is it for me’,” she said.

“I was not as independent and active as I would have liked to have been when my kids were little – the mental part of it was the big weight I was carrying around, as well as the actual weight that people could see.”

Three years ago, Ms O’Riley woke unwell and her children called an ambulance.

Her body was shutting down – later diagnosed as sepsis, and she flat-lined three times during a five-minute ambulance ride to the hospital.

During her four months at a Ballarat hospital, sepsis caused her organs to shut down, resulting in lymphedema and her leg swelling to eight times its normal size.

She was prescribed the only thing western medicine had to offer – compression stockings and leg elevation.

Ms O’Riley said her specialists told her that her diagnoses would have given her a life expectancy of five years.

“I felt like I’d hit lower than rock bottom, because I already felt like I was at rock bottom previously with insulin-dependent type-two diabetes and being obese, so I went on the search for alternatives,” she said.

“I was only 41, and I thought this can’t be it, surely I can’t be like this forever.”

Ms O’Riley found a gut health program – along with her partner Bill, who joined her for moral support –

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and ultimately reversed her diabetes, managed her chronic pain and reduced her medications. She slept better and had energy throughout each day.

“I thought if I could feel that good with all my health problems, and with

“I started sharing my journey on social media and it just spiralled. I tell people weight loss and health is easy if you have the right tools. Food is both a healing tool and something to fuel your body” – Ree O’Riley

Bill seeing results too, we knew other people could feel that good too, so we signed up to be mentors,” Ms O’Riley said.

“I started sharing my journey on social media and it just spiralled.

“I tell people weight loss and health is easy if you have the right tools.

“Food is both a healing tool and something to fuel your body.”

Ms O’Riley has supported about 200 people through the Modere program in two years, which includes natural supplements, meal plans, access to daily mentoring and an online support group with more than 80,000 participants.

She invites people to contact her through her Facebook page, www. facebook.com/maree.oriley, for more information.

“In the 30-day program, which can be tailored to suit each budget, people lose an average of eight kilograms,” Ms O’Riley said.

“I want people to find their rhythm and get to that better place for them.

“I always say that I help the people that I used to be – I’ve gone from surviving to thriving.”

POSITIVE: Ree O’Riley has lost more than 68 kilograms and has gone from spending most of her time at home, to gym sessions and classes, walking her dog and kayaking in the Grampians.

Caring for our volunteers

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Emergency services volunteers provide support to their communities in times of need – which is rarely confined to short shifts during daylight hours.

Fires, floods and other weather and emergency events bring a force of specifically trained volunteers out, away from their jobs, families and lives, requiring not just an ability to apply specific skills and training, but an ability to balance their lives and maintain their wellbeing.

Dimboola Urban Fire Brigade immediate ex-captain and lieutenant Ash Wallace said his brigade had a variety of volunteers, of all ages and stages, who were able to offer different levels of commitment.

“We are flexible in what we expect from our volunteers, because some people have the capacity to jump in boots and all, while others can offer smaller amounts of time, and this can change at any time,” he said.

“Being a smaller brigade, we know our crew, and we can respond to cues when people are struggling and starting to hit the wall, so you bring in the resources you need to balance that, whether it’s at a job or on a more personal level.

“We have a hierarchy of a captain and lieutenants, and we delegate and share the load when we need to.”

Mr Wallace said Dimboola’s brigade had a strong social aspect, which helped to balance the demands of incidents.

“We have always tried to be a fairly social group,” he said.

“I have also found that CFA itself contributes to work/life balance; it gives people an outlet from their day-to-day jobs, and a sense of purpose, as well as being a social outlet.”

CFA community engagement coordinator Jenny McGennisken said CFA had a range of free, 24-hour support services available to vol-

unteers, staff and members of their families.

“It’s important CFA personnel and their families manage their mental health in the same way they manage their physical health,” she said.

“Our volunteers, staff and their family members have access to counsellors for personal and CFArelated issues, as well as our assistance, peer support and chaplaincy programs.”

Ms McGennisken said the confidential services also included personal support in nutrition, sleep

health, mindfulness, grief and loss, exercise, and alcohol and drugs.

“There are many factors that can influence our personnels’ mental health, from attending traumatic or stressful incidents, having conflict with others, and general life stressors,” she said.

“Our support services are in place to ensure our members can look out for their own mental health, and that of their peers and families.”

CFA staff, volunteers and their families can find more information on support services on the CFA website.

Calm in the chaos

Holistic Haven in Horsham’s central business district offers people the opportunity to find peace and balance with a range of therapeutic services to help find calm in the chaos.

Founded by Brianna Wills, a seasoned counsellor with more than 14 years’ experience, Holistic Haven offers a diverse range of therapies tailored to individual needs.

Services include floatation therapy, infrared sauna sessions, mindfulness meditation classes, holistic counselling, and the spinal flow technique, with breathwork soon to be added to the offerings.

Ms Wills said establishments such as Holistic Haven were at the forefront of complete health.

“In a time when wellness tourism is evolving to encompass mental, emotional and spiritual health alongside physical wellbeing, establishments like Holistic Haven are at the forefront of this movement,” she said.

“By offering a sanctuary for holistic healing, we empower individuals to embark on personalised wellness journeys, fostering a balanced and harmonious life.”

Ms Wills said floatation therapy allowed clients to experience deep relaxation by floating effortlessly in warm, magnesium-rich water, promoting stress reduction and mental clarity.

“Our infrared sauna sessions utilise patented technology to aid in weight loss, muscle recovery, and overall relaxation,” she said.

“Additionally, the spinal flow technique offers a gentle yet powerful healing modality that releases stored stressors in the spine, facilitating profound healing.”

Holistic Haven also offers holistic counselling services, which integrate various psychotherapeutic and mindfulness approaches to foster selfawareness and empowerment.

“Our aim is to help you achieve greater levels of happiness by improving your physical, mental and emotional wellbeing,” Ms Wills said. Jo-Lee Kinesiology also offers sessions out of Holistic Haven.

SUPPORT ON HAND: Dimboola Urban Fire Brigade captain Lyndon Kuhne and firefighter Brian Nicholson at Little Desert National Park fires last week. Hundreds of volunteer CFA firefighters have worked around the clock at major fires for several weeks.

Expanding, thriving space

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Horsham’s Thrive Health

Clinic will launch The Herb Bar next month, a first point-ofcall, walk-in clinic for natural health care – coinciding with its second birthday.

Already boasting a range of holistic treatments including naturopathy, reiki, and reflexology, clinic founder and naturopath Ebony Jordan said The Herb Bar’s mini naturopathic consults would cater to acute health concerns.

“It’s more for things like cold and flu, stress and anxiety, sleep issues, gastro, and new health concerns,” she said.

“People can simply walk in and ask for a mini consult, complete an intake form, and have a 15-minute chat to a qualified naturopath in our clinic reception to receive safe and effective health advice and a personalised supplement prescription from $29.95.

“Bookings can also be made ahead of time via our website, calling or messaging us at Thrive Health Clinic.”

Officially launching on March 3, The Herb Bar will be open Monday to Thursday, 9am to 2pm.

“We’re trying to make quality, practitioner-grade natural health supplements and herbal tonics more accessible and affordable for the community,” Ms Jordan said.

“We understand that not everyone can afford a full consultation, and

not everybody has a complex health condition that they’re wanting to use natural health services for.”

Naturopaths will allow 15 minutes for each client, taking information, cross-checking medications and health history to ensure safe, personalist prescriptions.

“If somebody came in and they did have a more complex health condition, like a long-term hormonal condition, then we would triage them and refer them for a full consultation with a qualified naturopath,” Ms Jordan.

After working alongside Hosham pharmacist and herbalist Des Lardner, Ms Jordan branched out into her own space to see a small number of clients.

She said her business quickly expanded into a multimodality clinic, including naturopaths Carla Hendy and Emily Grieger, reiki master and naturopath Josephine Pummeroy, reflexologist and remedial massage therapist Tanya Hogan, Krisanda Lloyd, who offers ear candling, foot detox baths, and infrared sauna, and receptionist and student naturopath

better, feel better” with the help of our qualified instructors in our selection of yoga and pilates classes

Memberships available, casual class options, 10 or 5 pack classes available Private one-on-one sessions available upon appointment View class schedule and book via MindBody App

Adele Reardon. “We are driven by our core values of connection, collaboration and community,” Ms Jordan said.

“Our team is committed to supporting the health and wellness of our local community.”

The clinic is open from 9am to 2pm five days a week; for more information and to book an appointment, people can visit www. thrivehealthclinic.com.au or call 0493 671 773.

Melanoma on rise

Cancer Council Victoria’s SunSmart program is reminding Victorians to stay vigilant about sun protection this summer, as data shows melanoma diagnoses are on the rise, with people living in regional areas and men more likely to be diagnosed.

According to Cancer Council Victoria’s annual Victorian Cancer Registry, 3182 Victorians – 1860 males and 1320 females – were diagnosed with melanoma in 2023, up from 2884 new cases in 2022.

A total of 1205 of the new cases came out of regional Victoria, where people are 54 per cent more likely to be diagnosed with melanoma than Victorians living in major cities.

Cancer Council Victoria Head of SunSmart, Emma Glassenbury, said exposure to the sun’s UV radiation accounts for most melanoma, the deadliest skin cancer, capable of spreading to vital organs like the brain, lungs and liver.

“The good news is melanoma is one of the most preventable cancers, yet it remains the fifth most common in Victoria, accounting for eight per cent of all new cancer diagnoses in 2023,” she said.

“We think the rise in reported melanoma detection may be partially explained by growing and aging population in Victoria and fewer cases during COVID-19.”

Ms Glassenbury said while numbers reported were compelling, they were just the ‘tip of the iceberg’, and did not capture the 164,737 treatments for other forms of skin cancer in Victoria in 2023.

The latest report showed the rate of melanoma among Victorians aged 25-49 had declined by 52 per cent since 1997 – coinciding with a generation who grew up with iconic SunSmart ‘slip slop slap’ messaging from the 1980s, now expanded to include slide – on sunglasses – and seek – shade. Visit sunsmart.com.au to learn more or download the SunSmart Global UV App.

Launching Monday, March 3 Open 9am-2pm Monday to Thursday

BUSINESS BOOST: Horsham’s Thrive Health Clinic staff, from left, Krisanda Lloyd, Carla Hendy, Emily Grieger and founder Ebony Jordan. The clinic will open a new The Herb Bar next month for acute health care. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Health & Wellness

Timeless Health

Natural Health Expert – aligning the body, mind and spirit for a life in flow for 30+ years

Strong focus on stress and anxiety management while enhancing overall wellbeing

Proudly supported by

BOWERS CHIROPRACTIC CENTRE

What are you putting up with?

How long have you been putting up with that pain, stiffness, or lack of movement? Do you know

The Brain Runs the Body

Part of the brain’s nutrition is movement; it creates electrical energy. Your spinal cord sends the messages up and down your spine. It is stimulated by movement. It sends the movement information to the cerebellum which then sends it to the brain. When your spine is not moving as well as it should, (there is a subluxation) — the brain cannot receive the messages as it should. The brain is missing some of its nutrients.

A chiropractor will assess your spine and see which areas are jammed up causing the brain to receive misinformation. The chiropractor then gets these areas moving through several different ways. It helps the brain to read what is happening in the body better, creating better information pathways. You feel it as less pain, less stiffness and improved movement. This can also translate into better sports performance, better balance and better cognitive function. You also get advice on how to maintain the health of your spine and nervous system. Chiropractic keeps your spine moving. Chiropractic keeps your brain energised.

The health choices you make now can affect your body in 10 years. What are you waiting for?

Driving personal care

Mother-daughter duo Gabriella Da Ros and Jamila

Robins are the driving force behind Simply Skin and Laser Clinic, the Wimmera’s leading destination for advanced skin and laser treatments.

Together with Dr David Lester and their dedicated team of dermal and beauty therapists, as well as a nurse practitioner, they are passionate about understanding each client’s unique skin concerns and goals, delivering customised treatments with exceptional care.

Combining medical-grade skin and laser technology with clinically proven products, Simply Skin and Laser Clinic offers results that go beyond surface-level improvements.

Ms Da Ros said common skin concerns such as pigmentation, sun damage, rosacea, vascular conditions, unwanted hair, and loss of skin volume often brought clients to the clinic.

“In order to safely and adequately treat these conditions, Jamila and I have invested in cutting-edge medical-grade laser technology, bringing city-quality services to Horsham and making advanced skin treatments accessible to the regional community,” she said.

“Our treatments have transformed the skin health and confidence of many clients.

“Our mission is to deliver transformative results, instil confidence, and create a sanctuary where beauty and well-being thrive.”

Research launched by headspace National Youth Mental Health Foundation reveals many family members are worried about their young person’s mental wellbeing.

The findings come from the inaugural headspace National Family Mental Health Survey of 2059 family members, including parents, carers, siblings, elders, close friends, and stepfamily, who care for a young person aged 12 to 25.

headspace chief executive Jason Trethowan said the survey highlighted the size of the challenges facing families, who were doing their best to respond to their young people’s mental health needs.

“Family members are the first group that young people will reach out to when they need support, so it’s important they stay engaged with their young person’s mental health and wellbeing by being aware of any changes in their behaviour, such as disengaging from social activities, difficulty focusing, or changes in sleep habits,” he said.

“While these can be early signs of stress, they also present opportunities to check in, provide support and create a safe environment that en-

Creating headspace Mental health expo, training

Horsham

Neighbourhood

House is hosting a mental health expo on February 23. The event will feature food and activities for all ages, from 10am to 2pm at Horsham’s Sawyer Park.

The community organisation is also offering limited spaces for peo-

courages open communication and seeking help when needed.”

To help build the skills needed to seek professional support, headspace encourages family members to: start conversations early; use available resources; seek professional help when needed; ensure all connections are good connections, with any trusted adult; and practice selfcare, for both adults and young people.

“It’s important to remember that there’s no expectations for you to be an expert and it’s okay to get things wrong. Just being there for your young person and showing that you care for them unconditionally is a good start,” Mr Trethowan said. headspace Horsham is dedicated to supporting young people aged 12 to 24 and their families’ mental health and wellbeing, ensuring they have comprehensive resources to navigate their journey.

Any parent, carer, young person or family member in need of support can call headspace Horsham on 5381 1543, or call in to 77 Hamilton Street, Horsham, to speak to staff about getting support for their young person.

ple to complete a free Youth Mental Health First Aid training on March 17 and 24.

People can contact Horsham Neighbourhood House on 5382 5352 for more information on these events, or to reserve a space on the first aid course.

Gabriella Da Ros, right, and Jamila Robins

Showroom bound

Lexus Australia has confirmed the arrival of its LX Overtrail in Australian showrooms within the first half of this year.

The variant promises even greater off-road capacity than the derivative model, joining the LandCruiser Pradobased GX Overtrail in the Lexus lineup.

The luxury Japanese importer says the Overtrail duo reinforce its commitment offering customers an expanded range of vehicles tailored to their diverse needs.

Visually, the LX Overtrail is defined by black highlights for the spindle grille, front and rear bumpers, wheelarch mouldings, wing mirrors, door handles, window frames, and roof rails.

The Lexus LX Overtrail brings not only more rugged visuals, but ‘bespoke mechanical components and enhancements that improve groundcovering ability and traction in the most difficult terrain’.

Lexus says the inclusion of front, centre and rear locking differentials add to the low-speed tractability of the LX Overtrail, the trio of lockers joining an ‘already impressive suite of off-road traction aids’, including

multi-terrain select, downhill assist control, crawl control, multi-terrain monitor, and active height control.

The all-terrain LX Overtrail will further benefit from unique 18-inch alloy wheels shod with Toyo Open Country A/T tyres in 265-70 sizing.

Engine options include a twin-turbocharged 3.3-litre V6 diesel producing 227kW and 700Nm, as per current LX 550d, or a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 petrol making 305kW and 650Nm, as per current LX 600.

A 10-speed automatic transmission is offered exclusively with both options.

A petrol-electric hybrid option is also understood to be under evaluation for the Australian market.

The LX 700h, as it will be known, offers a parallel hybrid system integrating a motor/generator with a clutch between the twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 petrol and 10-speed automatic transmission.

Lexus says this configuration maintains key features such as full-time 4WD and a low-range transfer case, while delivering instantaneous torque, and ‘linear and powerful acceleration’.

A hybrid control system modulates the transition between engine-only

and motor-only modes, optimising performance based on driving conditions.

In this way, the electric motor can be used independent of the ICE for lowrange driving.

The LX 700h is also fitted with a waterproof AC invertor located under the centre console for external power supply of up to 1500W or 2400W,

depending on the region. Lexus Australia says its decision to import the LX 700h, as well as pricing and full specifications on the incoming LX Overtrail, would be announced soon.

“Since its introduction to the Lexus Australia range in 1998, the LX has enabled customers to navigate Australia’s tough terrains with unwavering reliability and unparalleled com-

fort,” Lexus Australia chief executive John Pappas said.

“The LX combines luxurious appointments and thoughtful comfort features with the rugged performance of a full-size luxury SUV, delivering outstanding off-road, towing and hauling capability.”

– Matt Brogan

New to market

Coinciding with an expansion of its dealer network, Inchape brand Deepal has scored a five-star rating from independent safety body ANCAP for its first model available Down Under, the fully-electric S07 medium-size SUV.

ANCAP reports the coupe-style BEV achieved a record equalling score of 95 per cent for adult occupant protection, matching Toyota’s Camry as the top scorer for its physical protection and safe restraint of adult occupants against current 2023-2025 criteria.

Thirty-seven vehicles have been star rated against these requirements to date, with the S07’s record rating attributed in part to ‘unblemished’ injury risk scores for the driver in the side impact and oblique pole crash tests, and the front-seat passenger in the frontal offset crash test.

ANCAP was complimentary about the design and structure of the China-built Deepal S07, which also demonstrated good performance with a low risk of serious injury to occupants of ‘opponent’ vehicles in a crash.

There was, however, a minor deduction of 0.86 points out of a potential eight-point penalty applied for the assessment of vehicle compatibility in the frontal offset crash test.

The Deepal S07 followed through with maximum points awarded for protection of child occupants in both the frontal offset and side impact crash tests.

The S07’s assessment after crash testing revealed it provides safe access to trapped or injured vehicle occupants by first-responders de-

spite recessed electric side door handles, which ANCAP requires to be in the extended, ready-toopen position immediately after a crash where the vehicle’s system deploys an airbag or detects a severe impact.

The S07’s door handles post-crash showed it met these criteria, and in addition, its doors could be opened if the vehicle lost power. It was also shown that its electric windows were able to be opened following water submergence.

In terms of collision avoidance capability facilitated by ADAS technology, ANCAP found the S07, fitted with a full suite of autonomous emergency braking, AEB, and lane support systems, delivered ‘good’ and ‘adequate’ performance, with mixed results in some of the more advanced AEB pedestrian test scenarios.

A ‘marginal’ performance report was recorded for the AEB crossing scenarios where the S07 showed limited auto-brake performance when crossing the path of another vehicle.

The tech rich, well-equipped Deepal S07 arrived on the market in January priced from $53,900 excluding on roads and is powered by a single electric motor driving the rear wheels, rated at 160kW/320Nm providing a claimed range of 475 kilometres from its 80kWh battery.

In relation to the Deepal S07 crash test results, ANCAP chief executive Carla Hoorweg said the organisation had seen a number of new brands enter the local market in the past year and they continued to impress in meeting the high safety standard Australian consumers and fleet buyers expect.

– Peter Barnwell

Alfa Romeo to abandon EV-only plans

Alfa Romeo is set to abandon its plans to go all-electric by 2027.

According to North American head of Alfa Romeo, Chris Feuell, the Italian brand will instead adopt a ‘multi-energy strategy’.

Alfa Romeo said previously the Tonale plug-in hybrid SUV would be the last model produced with a petrol engine.

Now, it appears that plan has changed, with Ms Feuell telling Automotive News an all-electric portfolio would spell the end for the brand in North America.

“The biggest thing in our product and technology road map is transitioning from what was a BEV-only strategy for Alfa to one that is multienergy,” she said.

“We have 110 dealers in our US network, and it would be very challenging for them to survive with a BEV-only portfolio.”

Ms Feuell said the largest concern among North American Alfa Romeo dealers was the brand’s 38 per cent sales slip in the last quarter of 2024.

Regional sales for the brand have decreased each year for four consecutive years.

It is understood that dealerships are over-burdened by old-plated stock, with more than half of the brand’s inventory plated 2024 or earlier.

“I was very transparent with dealers in laying out my understanding of the operational performance and financial performance of the dealer network,” Ms Feuell said.

“If we replicate what happened in 2024, we’ll lose a lot of dealers, and we need to rebuild the network rather than deplete it. We’re down to 110 dealers from where we were at 150.”

Ms Feuell said while rebuilding and strengthening the dealer network by adding points needed to be a focus, the bigger priority was getting sales back on track.

In Australia, Alfa Romeo notched up just 561 sales in 2024, a downturn of 21.6 per cent on the year prior. The brand’s market share is sitting at just 0.04 per cent.

Across the 2024 calendar year, Alfa Romeo dealerships reported 190 Giulia registrations, up 3.3 per cent from 184 units, 246 Tonale registrations, down 32.6 per cent from 365 units, and 125 Stelvio registrations, down 25.1 per cent from 167 units. – Matt Brogan

FIVE STARS: The China-built Deepal S07 was awarded five ANCAP stars before launching in Australia last month.

Updated Golf ready for launch

V

olkswagen Australia is set to launch its updated generation 8.5 Golf range by April, the small segment passenger car favourite to offer ‘more technology, more luxury, and more power’.

The range will open with the Golf Life, an entrant VW says will include as standard 17-inch alloy wheels, front and rear parking sensors, park assist, reversing camera, LED headlights with light assist, keyless entry, alarm, surround lighting, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, single-zone climate control, and a 10.3-inch infotainment array featuring DAB+ digital radio connectivity, wireless device charging, and wireless App-Connect.

Further, the Golf is set to offer Volkswagen’s ‘travel assist’ adaptive cruise control technology including lane assist, as well as front assist, AEB, with pedestrian and cyclist detections, and side assist with rear cross-traffic alert, again as standard fare.

The German importer will also introduce the Golf Style to its range from April, the variant taking the place of the former Golf Highline, and adding ‘significant enhancements’.

These include 18-inch alloy wheels, chrome exterior garnishing, rear privacy glass, and LED Plus adaptive headlights.

Inside, the variant boasts a larger 12.9-inch infotainment screen with

native sat nav and voice assistance, 30-colour LED ambient lighting, ergonomic seating with 14-way powered driver seat adjustment, and ArtVelours microfleece upholstery.

Style customers may further option a panoramic sunroof and a ‘sound and vision’ package incorporating HarmanKardon premium audio, head-up display, and 360-degree camera system.

The Golf R-Line will continue as part of the generation 8.5 range, again offering a panoramic sunroof and a sound and vision package option.

paint, front fog lights, LED Plus headlights, park assist, tri-zone climate control, and larger 12.9-inch infotainment array.

The panoramic sunroof has been separated from the previous ‘luxury’ package as a stand-alone option, allowing customers to select the iconic tartan cloth interior with sunroof for the first time.

Conversely, the newly introduced leather package featuring Vienna leather, electric driver’s seat and heated and ventilated front seats can be specified without a sunroof.

Customers may also opt the aforementioned sound and vision package on GTI variants.

A power bump of 10kW for the flagship Golf R takes the total output to 245kW.

As standard, the variant includes 18-inch alloy wheels, driving profile selection including sport mode, progressive steering for sharper responses, R-Line exterior and interior styling including front sports seats, plus newly standard Vienna leather appointed upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and electric driver’s seat with memory.

Golf Life, Style and R-Line variants continue to be powered by Volkswagen’s familiar turbocharged 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine develop-

ing 110kW of power and 250Nm of torque. The unit is paired as standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Further up the line, the Golf GTI and R will offer more features and more power.

The 2025 Golf GTI will now feature as standard adaptive chassis control, DCC Pro, revised steering, and a more powerful 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine, now outputting 195kW and 370Nm.

Additional standard equipment includes 19-inch alloy wheels, metallic

Additional features include LED Matrix headlights, premium LED taillights, Nappa leather, electric driver’s seat with memory, heated and ventilated front seats, Harman-Kardon audio, area view 360-degree camera system, and 19-inch alloy wheels.

Importantly, the high-performance variant also includes a torque-vectoring rear axle, sport stability control setting, and special modes including Nürburgring, usable on road and track, and drift on track only.

A Black Edition variant will be available optionally.

– Matt Brogan

INBOUND: Volkswagen is set to launch its better-appointed and more powerful generation 8.5 Golf by April.

On This Day

From The Weekly Advertiser archives: February 3, 2005 –Zoe Elliott started taking photos for The Weekly Advertiser’s new column, featuring newborn babies in the Wimmera. Wimmera Health Care Group’s official photographer, Ms Elliott took photos each Monday and Thursday, as well as in her own studio, for publication. She is pictured with her son Hunter.

10 years ago: February 4, 2015

A record 360 motorcyclists rode in the Ararat-based seventh annual Grampians Ride to Remember tour. A sub-committee of Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation Ararat branch raised money for East Grampians Health Service centres in Ararat and Willaura. A highlight was a presentation by The Rover Dream Project of a $15,000 cheque to the health service for peri-operative unit equipment.

Five years ago: February 5, 2020

Great Western Future Committee received $15,000 to develop The Great Western Wine and Heritage Cycle Trail, to bring the area’s history, landscape and world-class wineries together. Funded in the fifth round of the Federal Government’s Strong Communities program, Member for Wannon Dan Tehan said projects such as this would bring more tourists to the region.

One year ago: February 7, 2024

The Willaura Farm to Pub run, walk and ride returned after a three-year break. At the old Joyce farm, participants made their way along Sandy Lane, raising money for mental health. Beginning in 2003 as a challenge between the extended Joyce families, the event developed into a widely supported community event.

TaKE a BrEaK

yOUr LUCKy sTars

FOR THE WEEK FEBRUARY 8 TO FEBRUARY 15

ARIES (March 21 - April 20)

Lucky Colour: Cream Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 1.3.2.6.

Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 15, 26, 36, 39

This period could bring financial gains and some of your long-cherished wishes may come true. Travel could be on the cards, and joyful moments with loved ones are likely. Stay open to new experiences, as luck seems to be on your side.

1. As well as being the unofficial patron saint of love, what occupation is St Valentine also believed to be the patron of?

2. Who was Paul Simon married to prior to Edie Brickell?

3. In which year did the Snowy Mountains Scheme, a largescale hydroelectricity and irrigation project, commence – 1939, 1949 or 1959?

4. Which song brought Christina Aguilera, Lil Kim, Mya and Pink together in Moulin Rouge-style?

5. Munich’s Oktoberfest, Germany’s main celebration, attracts approximately how many people annually – three, six or nine million?

6. What kind of eyes did Eric Carmen sing about on the soundtrack to Dirty Dancing?

7. How many minutes would it take to fall to the centre of the Earth?

8. Released on the HIStory: Past, Present and Future – Book I album in 1995, which Michael Jackson song is about saving the rainforest?

9. What does ‘GT’ stand for in car terms?

10. On this day in 2022, six days before his 50th birthday, which 11-time world surfing champion won his eighth pipeline title, beating 22-year-old Hawaiian Seth Moniz in the final?

Answers: 1. Beekeepers. 2. Carrie Fisher. Meeting on the set of Saturday Night Live in the late 1970s, they married in 1983 and divorced in 1984. 3. 1949. 4. Lady Marmalade. 5. Six million people. 6. Hungry Eyes. It was written by Franke Previte and John DeNicola, the same duo who wrote (I’ve Had) The Time of My Life, performed by Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes, for the same soundtrack. 7. 19 minutes. 8. Earth Song. 9. Grand Touring. 10. Kelly Slater.

Getting in touch with The Weekly

Our office is at 2 Stawell Road, Horsham. Mail: PO Box 606, Horsham 3402. Telephone: 5382 1351

Website: www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au Email: weeklyadvertiser@team.aceradio.com.au For classified advertisements: 5382 1351 – email: horsham@aceradio.com.au

Advertising 5382 1351: Mark Sulic: marks@team.aceradio.com.au; Lee Meadows: leem@team.aceradio.com.au;

Schilling: kschilling@aceradio.com.au; Danica Cutter: dcutter@aceradio.com.au;

Higginson: heidih@aceradio.com.au; Lily Olver: lolver@aceradio.com.au Newsroom 5382 1351: Lauren Henry: lhenry@aceradio.com.au; Bronwyn Hastings: bhastings@aceradio.com.au; Georgia Bailey: georgiab@team.aceradio.com.au The

TAURUS (April 21 - May 20)

Lucky Colour: Peach

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 1.6.8.5. Lotto Numbers: 1, 15, 24, 40, 22, 29

Keeping a cool head during stressful situations will serve you well. Problems at work or with your career should start resolving themselves gradually. A good time to embrace a more positive outlook, as harmony and good feelings return to your life.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)

Lucky Colour: Yellow

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 1.6.8.5.

Lotto Numbers: 1, 15, 26, 35, 40, 22

Discretion is key during this period – be careful not to reveal too much about your plans or social intentions. Financially, try to resist the urge to splurge, as unexpected expenses may arise. Practicality and caution will pay off.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22)

Lucky Colour: Silver

Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 1.6.5.9.

Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 15, 24, 8, 6

Surprises from your past could resurface, and some may have lasting effects. Don’t rush decisions; allow things to unfold at their own pace. Assertiveness will be key when it comes to important matters, but choose your battles wisely.

LEO (July 23 - August 22)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 4.5.6.2.

Lotto Numbers: 4, 12, 25, 26, 31, 11

Your temper may be tested, but with patience, you’ll soon find solutions to your problems. Now is the time to tackle those jobs you’ve been putting off. Focus and determination will lead to positive outcomes.

VIRGO (August 23 - September 23)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 1.6.5.2.

Lotto Numbers: 1, 15, 24, 40, 44, 43

Success is within reach if you’re willing to compromise. In personal relationships, a little give and take will go a long way. Your ability to adapt and balance different opinions will ensure harmony in your life.

LIBRA (September 24 - October 23)

Lucky Colour: Violet

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 2.6.5.3.

Lotto Numbers: 2, 15, 24, 40, 26, 33

Health matters may be on your mind, and some of you may make important decisions about your future. For others, this could be a time to return to study or explore new career opportunities, leading to financial improvements.

SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22)

Lucky Colour: Cream

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 1.1.2.3.

Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 13, 26, 36, 38

Ensure that your ideas are communicated clearly, and don’t let others push you into decisions you’re not comfortable with. Financial caution is advised, so keep a close eye on your spending habits.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 20)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 5.6.2.3.

Lotto Numbers: 5, 12, 26, 36, 39, 44

Avoid mixing personal relationships with work matters to maintain harmony in both. Good fortune could be on the horizon, and a stroke of luck may improve your business opportunities, giving you a chance to move forward.

CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19)

Lucky Colour: Dark Blue

Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 4.6.5.2. Lotto Numbers: 4, 15, 26, 39, 36, 22

Good news in your career sector could lead to new opportunities. Contact from someone in your past may provide unexpected assistance. New friendships could introduce exciting interests, leading to personal growth.

AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 19)

Lucky Colour: Pink

Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 1.3.5.6. Lotto Numbers: 1, 15, 26, 39, 34, 40

If you feel left out in one aspect of your life, another area will provide the connection you need. Unexpected opportunities may arise, offering you a better outcome than anticipated.

PISCES (February 20 - March 20)

Lucky Colour: Cream

Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 4.6.2.3. Lotto Numbers: 4, 12, 26, 39, 8, 22

Life seems to be speeding up, and you’ll need all your energy to keep up with the pace. Avoid gossipy or interfering individuals, as they could drain your energy and lead to unnecessary distractions.

Sudoku

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

Quick Workout

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

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

bmpuzzles Distributed by Knight Features

Spot the 5 Differences

Join the Dots

aim is to significantly reduce landfill in the Wimmera.

In 2017 they introduced skip bins to their line of recycling solutions, giving people another option for waste disposal.

Mick Morris said the company continued to stay at the forefront of recycling technologies to lead the Wimmera in waste management solutions.

The family-run business boasts a team of four and handle most recyclables.

“Jai McCall has joined the team and brings a wealth of experience and knowledge in waste management. He is a great asset to Waste Busters.”

“We collect paper and cardboard and offer a documentation destruction service,” he said.

Waste Busters have solutions for commercial and private recycling.

“Businesses can call us for a free waste and recycling appraisal to get the best deal for you.”

Waste Busters are open Monday to Friday 8am-4pm and at weekends by appointment.

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The Local Trade Directory offers the only true multimedia platform combining print, radio and online services for businesses to ʻspread the wordʼ in across the Wimmera, Mallee and Grampians.

It’s affordable and effective!

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

Classifieds

death notices

ARGALL, Maureen Watt

12.10.1950 – 02.02.2025

Cherished wife of Russel.

Loving mother & mother-inlaw of David & Kelli, Noni & Bri, Mikala & Jeremy, Shannon & Jenna and Shaun in heaven.

Adored Nanny of 15 Grandchildren and 1 great grandchild.

In our hearts you will always be loved and remembered. Reunited with her loving father & son.

As are the families wishes

Mrs. Maureen Argall will be farewelled at a private service with a private cremation to take place.

Horsham & District

Funerals

Dylan & Amity Hartwich 5382 1149

ARTHUR, Robert Louis

01.02.1942 to 02.02.2025, aged 83 years

Late of Booleroo Centre SA, Kanagulk and Horsham VIC.

Loved husband of Margaret.

Loving father and father-inlaw of Elizabeth & Cameron; Simon & Fiona; Nicholas; David & Jennifer.

Loved Grandpa of James and Allison; William, Lachlan and Alexander; Camille and Daniel.

Brother of Ken, Donald (dec) and Felicity.

Now at Peace with his Lord

BURNS, Florence (nee Merle)

11.04.1934 – 20.01.2025

Daughter of Bathurst & Julia (Dec).

Loved sister of Bathurst. Mavis, Francis, Edgar, Mary, Hazel, Daphne, Norma, Monica (All Dec) & Thelma.

Cherished Aunty, Great Aunty & Great Great Aunty of her Family.

A life well Lived. Requiescat In Pace.

Horsham & District

Funerals

Dylan & Amity Hartwich 5382 1149

DUNLOP (nee Maconachie), Lois Sophia

Passed away on February 3, 2025 aged 96 years

Dearly loved wife of Jo (dec).

Loving mother and motherin-law of Meredith & Paul; and Richie (dec).

Adored Nan to Jordy and Jessie.

Forever In Our Hearts

JOHNSON (nee PETERS), Diana Winifred

Passed away peacefully, 1st of February 2025 aged 94 years after a courageous battle with M.N.D.

Loving wife of Ted (Dec) + Bud Johnson (Dec).

Cherished mother & motherin-law of Graham, Judith + Terry, Helen + Mark.

Much loved grandmother of Glenn, Erika (Dec), Craig, Lauren, Simone, Kenneth, Claire, Ella & Dane.

Great Grandmother to 9 and one due in March.

Many thanks to the wonderful caring staff of the Wimmera Nursing Home.

In lieu of flowers donations to M.N.D Vic would be appreciated, use the following link:

htt ps://www.mnd.org.au/ donate

Horsham & District Funerals

Dylan & Amity Hartwich 5382 1149

LAFFY, Kerin Vivian

Passed away in Hopetoun on January 30, 2025 aged 77 years.

Dearly loved wife of John.

Loving mother and motherin-law on David & Maree; Michelle & Tom; Kim & Jason.

Adored Nan to Hannah, Patrick and Aiden; Sam, Lou and Abby; Joe, Amy and Angus. Now At Peace

WARDLE, Noela G.

WATSON,

Errol

2-10-1938 to 24-1-2025

He passed away peacefully surrounded by family at the Jeparit Hospital

Loving husband of Julie.

Loved father & father-in-law of Carolyn & Anthony, Gavin & Pam.

Adored Pa of Amanda, Samantha, Lachlan, Olivia & Lexie.

Adored Great Pa of Mahlia & Leo.

To be privately farewelled

WHITE, James (Jim)

20/05/1939 - 2/02/2025

Passed away peacefully at Natimuk Nursing Home

Loving Husband for 64yrs of Fran

Father of Anne-Maree, Pauline, Jim, David, Steven, Jenna & Donna

Father-in-law of Barry, Phillip, Linda, Alison, Sarah, Jason 19 Grandchildren, 7 Great Grandchildren

Rest In Peace in God’s care.

WHITE, James Joseph Dad, Jim, Pa

Take off your gloves and put them down, no more sweat and worry for you now.

Your labour is done, your home now is heaven; no more must you wait,

Your legacy lives on, your love of the land, and we will close the gate.

Rest peacefully

Steve, Sarah, Jack, Bailee, Riley & Zahlee

ARTHUR, Robert Louis

The Funeral of Robert Louis

LAFFY, Kerin Vivian

Arthur will take place at St Andrew’s Uniting Church, Horsham on Monday, 10 February 2025 commencing at 10.30am.

An Informal Gathering to Celebrate the Life of Kerin Vivian Laffy will take place at the Horsham RSL on Friday, 7 February 2025 commencing at 3pm.

of Horsham, formerly Brim on January 31st 2025

Loved wife of Tex.

Loved mother of Noel (dec), Darryn, Craig and their families.

Loved sister of John (dec), Kenneth, Garry & Ray (dec).

Please wear something bright and colourful.

The service may be viewed online at www.horsham.unit ingchurch.org.au/watch Private cremation.

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter

Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member

BURNS, Florence (nee Merle)

The funeral service to farewell the late Ms. Florence Burns will be held at Goroke cemetery on February 7th 2025 commencing at 11am, followed by a thanksgiving service at 12pm at the Goroke bowls club.

Amity & Dylan Hartwich 5382 1149

DUNLOP (nee Maconachie), Lois Sophia

Please see next edition for funeral details.

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member

JOHNSON, Diana Winifred

The memorial service to farewell the late Mrs. Diana Winifred Johnson will be held at Horsham’s Church of Christ on River Road, commencing at 11am on Monday 17th of February 2025.

In lieu of flowers donations to M.N.D Vic would be appreciated, use the following link: https://www.mnd.org. au/donate.

A Private cremation will take place.

Amity & Dylan Hartwich 5382 1149

LAFFY, Kerin Vivian

An Informal Gathering to Celebrate the Life of Kerin Vivian Laffy will take place at the Horsham RSL on Friday, 7 February 2025 commencing at 3pm.

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444

WARDLE

A Memorial Service to Celebrate the Life of Mrs Noela G Wardle will be held at the Church of Christ Horsham on Friday February 7th, 2025 commencing at 2pm.

A Private Burial Service for Noela will be held prior at the Brim Cemetery.

W.B. Gardiner & Son

Funeral Directors Warracknabeal 0407 340 064

WHITE

A Graveside Service for Mr James ‘Jim’ White will be held at the Minyip Cemetery on Saturday February 8th, 2025 commencing at 9am.

A Memorial Thanksgiving Mass will be held at the Catholic Church Horsham on Saturday February 8th, 2025 commencing at 11am.

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

Bereavement Thanks

Thank you

KRUGER-BOSCHEN, Esma

We would like to express our deepest gratitude for your kindness and support during this difficult time losing Mum.

Your thoughtful gestures, whether it was sending flowers, cards, messages, calls, or visits and prayers have truly meant so much to me and my family. Each act of kindness has provided us with comfort and reminded us how loved and supported we are.

Thank you for being there for us. Your compassion has been a light in this dark time, and we will never forget it.

With heartfelt thanks Trevor Kruger, Sharon (Kruger) Gundry 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

2 beautiful sweet 20 yr old mares, need a perfect forever home, unfortunately I can't afford all that I have anymore, both $800 ono, to good homes ONLY Ph 0423182267

2 Jack Russell Male Pups, m/ chip 978142000347448/9781420

00347452, source # MB110435, $700 each Ph 0417055338

6 Young Geese Ph 0429912620

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

The Weekly Advertiser welcomes your advertising.

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

ANIMALS -

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

• Individual microchip numbers

• Vet certificate to exclude individual animals from needing microchips

• Domestic animal-business number

PLUS a source number from the Pet Exchange Register

LIVESTOCK -

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

Birds, 3 young opaline Turks and mum $150 each, Pair Princess Lutino hen normal/blue male $300, Steel aviary bolt tog, 3m L 1.2w 1.8h $600 Ph 0492486058 Dimboola

Bristlenose catfish, great tank cleaners $5ea until sold out Ph 0474159010 after 6.30pm

Funeral Notices

Animals & Accessories

Funeral Notices

Animals & Accessories

Budgies, assorted colours $10 each Ph 0417533579

Budgies, pastel and standards $10 each Ph 0428010996

Horsham

Canaries for sale $25 each Ph 0400812598

German (Aust) Koolie pups, 2 red male pups, 1 red speckled male pup, all vaccinated / microchipped, microchip# 95600 0017131984/17181902/17166

017, source# MB258735, bred to work $500 Ph P Brown 53547632 or 0438522996 Ararat

Pembroke Corgi Pups, male & females, source# 262769, microchip 953010006873021, 953010006873006, 953010006857644 Ph 0400058264

Purebred black faced Dorper, rams and ewes, rams 2yrs old, ewes 9months old, pic#

3HSDC083 Ph Liz 0419664345

Purebred German Shepherd, 13 weeks old, black and tan, great temperament, toilet trained, straight, 2 boys source# MB115424, m/chip# 953010007067038/7069200 Ph 0421018631

Purebred German Shepherd, 7 months, black and tan, great temperament, toilet trained, straight, one boy & one girl source# MB115424, m/chip# 956000016586733/6681104 Ph 0421018631

Roosters, ducks and guinea fowl wanted to buy Ph 0469740723

Very pretty & young budgies, assorted colours, ready to go $10 each Ph 0423182267

13' 1992 Colt Caravan , tv, a/c, 2way fridge, awning, VGC, reg till May 25, as is $8500 Ph 0487750540

1980 Viscount 16ft , fully renovated inside, full queen size inner spring mattress, sleeps 2 people, 240v/gas fridge, lights setup for 240v and 12v, very neat van, rego until August $7500 Ph 0407821797

1998 Jayco Westport , full annexe, a/c, oven, microwave, always shedded, many extras $18,000ono Ph 0419514118

2012 Regent Cruiser, 18', 2 x single beds, L.P gas, 12V battery +240V shower, toilet, cooling & heating etc, VG condition inside and out, only one long trip, $38,000 ono Ph 53870522 ah or 0421607736

2013 Jayco Starcraft, 21', one owner, very little use, as new, many added extras $42,000 Ph 0427909230

2013 Jurgens Lunagazer J24, 6.3m/21', J2403, 2 berth, shower/ toilet, air con, diesel heater, always shedded, VGC $38,500 Ph 0418350445

2014 Concept Inovation, 590R, 19ft 6in, full ensuite, WM, Q bed, full fridge/freezer, TV, new microwave, 2 batteries, AC, 2 toolboxes, awning, ex cond, $45,000 Ph 0437164589

2014 JB dirt roader 19’caravan, full ensuite queen bed, 3 way fridge washing machine, reverse cycle a/c diesel heater, Sirocco fans, 2 solar panels, 2 batteries, 280 litres water $44,000 Ph 0427902375 Beulah

2014 Lagoon Pasadena Caravan, 2 single beds, showr & toilet, diesel heater, air con, annex & rear camera, sat king TV, $38,000 Ph 0427861784

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

Avan Motorhome Applause 600, Fiat Ducato diesel, full ensuite, DB innerspring, G/E Hot Water, MW, TV, washing machine, R/C air conditioner, 100L 2-way fridge, roof solar panel, RWC, 19,500km, $74,000 Ph 0427792326

Caravan 20' full length, solid annex, ensuite shower, basin toilet, on permanent site in Portland Seaside Caravan Park, fully furnished, for holidays or permanent living

$5800ono Ph 0432544164

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

$11,500 Ph 0493394223

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

REDUCED 2006 Concept Ascot pop-top, immac cond, shedded, low kms, new full annexe, R33763 $18,500 Ph Ray 0413445347

REDUCED 2009 Jayco Stirling Expander , immaculate cond, front club lounge, slide out q/ bed, full ensuite, roll out awning and full annex

$40,000ono Ph 0428913307

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

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

Clipex Sheep Handler, 2018 Portable Contractor Model, 3 way auto-draft, includes : foot pedal, remote control, cover, manuals, tool kit and spare parts, always shedded and covered, not done a lot of work, $16,500 PLUS gst, Located Balmoral Ph 0429 846 236 Cox ride on lawn mower $900 Ph 0407285097

Freighter 40 ft trailer, full set containing pins, tri-axle, needs work, brakes, etc, $8000 inc Gst Ph 0419778181 Jeparit

Inter AB160 Tipper Grouper, drives well, good brakes, $2500 inc Jeparit Ph 0419778181

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 2022 Mahindra 6110

60 HP, front end loader, 4 in 1 bucket, FWA, a/c cab, balance of new warranty, 368 hrs on clock $43,900 Ph 0428349401

Camping Equipment, including as new Yamaha 2KVa inverter generator never used, aqua cube shower, porta potty, Komodo pantry, and clothesline $2500 Ph 0458683879

CCE cage on wheels 6x4 well made $400, 500 gallon ex fuel tank $100, Coolgardie safe $100, Ute crate, 6x4 tub tight $50, Bailey extension ladder 5.3 extends to 6.3 $500, leith grain measuring sheep feeder $1000, new Holland Mower GC with parts, best offer Ph 0429857207

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

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

Darche Panorama 2 with roof top tent $1000, Darche Eclipse 270 awning, drivers side, plus side walls $600 Ph 0428506423

Elvis Presley collection $250 firm Ph 53581800

Flip Billard/ Air Hockey table, 110cm x 210cm, accessories included, trailer required $300 Ph 0409122968

Hay for Sale, Wheaten hay top quality in 5x4 round bales $290 + gst per ton can deliver 14 bale loads Ph 0429954795

Hot potato mobile van

Metres Console Radio , ex condition Ph 53824316

Pea straw small square bales, $7 per bale, great garden mulch, pickup or delivery to Horsham Ph 0488303725

Pine Posts S/H, good order,

Ph 0400603022

MDC Highside Cruiser 2019, 3 ton McHitch, 110L fridge, EC

CAT, 955 K traxcavator DROTT, ROPS, strong double ripper, GP bucket, D330T motor $35,000ono plus Gst

Tradies Trailer enclosed , containing shelving storage, power points $680 ono Ph 0432544164

Wagner fine finish spray gun Ph 0419359501

Yamaha Inverter Generato r, EF2800i, never used, $1500 Ph 0474099355

BoCam aluminium fold up boat trailer, EC, 50kg tare, GTM 250kg, $1650 Ph 0428990602

Pietscraft 3.5m Fishing Boat, 15hp, Johnson tilt trailer, boat cover, all accessories $5000 Ph 0428822730

2005 SP Mazda 3 Hatch, 5 speed manual, power steering & aircon, black in colour, 1YD6TE, 193000km, RWC, $4500, Ph 0423335246

VW Toureg 2011 180 TDI auto, silver, one owner, good service history, one of few with low range transfer, centre & rear diff locks, no towing done, VGC, new tyres, reg till 2/25, YVD520 $10,500 Ph 0428528990

Chair $100 Ph 0428506423

Extension Dining Table , 6 chairs, 3 bar stools, blue colour, $130, Ph 0409822930

G4 Kirby Vacuum Cleaner, powerful motor plus extras, $80 Ph 0428391813

Matching tallboy and dresser $200 Ph 0428506423

Mattress $250 , single bed blackwood $250, as new Ph 0437688336

Old wood burning stove, GC, located in Goroke, $200 ono Ph Mick 0400005266

Outdoor spa, sapphire, 5 person $4500 Ph 0407285097

Wall unit sliding door & shelves $30, coffee table with tiled top $25, timber corner unit $15, outdoor setting with 4 chairs & laminex oval table $80 Ph 0409967815 Horsham

Aspire wheelchair , as new condition, barely used once a day for 3 months, extremely comfortable, cost $3500 from Action AIDS, reduced price $950 Ph 0427562913 Horsham

Freedom forearm walker $250, wheelchair $150 Ph 0437600095

Shoprider Allrounder mobility scooter, 2yrs old, EC, hard canopy, weather proof fittings $4200 Ph 0419633821 Dimboola

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

Ford XA 1972 era Panel Van with rust $1500 neg Ph 0428501109

, QL624,

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

2012 Holden Cruze 2.0 lt r, diesel, auto, white, tidy condition, 163,000 kms, 1FG4PY $4250 Ph 0427957243

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

1999 Toyota Dual Cab Ute, 4x4 diesel with fold out camper

$12,500 Ph 0428822730

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

2018 Holden Colorado 4WD twin cab ute, good condition, RWC, 12 month reg, new battery, just been serviced, 190,000kms, 1OC8QD

$19,500 ono Ph 0428149414

Kia Optima GT , 2016 fully optioned, sunroof, heated and cooled seats, sold with RWC, beautiful economical and safe car, ACJ085, $18,900 Ph 0427957243

REDUCED 2013 Toyota ATARA, 2.5L sports sedan, auto, RWC, Toyota seat covers, only 2 owners, selling due to downsizing, 127,000kms, $12,000 Ph 0400728252

The Weekly Advertiser welcomes your advertising. We are required strictly by law to include specific information on some items when publishing your advertisement. A snapshot of your obligations are as follows: ROAD VEHICLESAll advertisements for road vehicles must include a price, as well as:

• A registration number, if registered

• Either an engine number, VIN or chassis number if the vehicle is not registered.

2003 Landcruiser, auto, factory turbo diesel, lots of accessories, HDJ100, 420,000km $29,500 Ph 0447159379

2010 3.0L Turbo Diesel Toyota Landcruiser Prado 150 series GXL, immaculate condition, never taken off road, car is in perfect condition, no dents or scratches, car comes with: 2 remote keys, fully serviced logbook, genuine ARB bullbar colour matched, dual battery set up, rear Anderson plug, trailer brakes, Apple Car Play/ DVD player upgrade, head unit

Upgraded with Genuine Toyota Kakadu 18” gun metal wheels, roof racks, towbar, clear title - with no accidents, no finance owed, genuine low klm 144,xxx, would suit the fussiest buyer $41,000, REGO: XLH743 - Ph 0407046864

Horsham

2014 Nissan Navara D22 2.5 turbo diesel 4X4 ute, registered until December with service books, low 91,600kms $22,500ono Ph 0492496448

2016 Mitsubishi Triton Twin Cab, diesel, 5 speed auto, near new tyres, hard lid, H/D tow bar and plug, elect brakes, great tow vehicle, good condition, regularly serviced, 128,00km, Reg July,1EV1VA, $22,000 ONO, inspection invited Ph 0429491426

Mini Cooper S, 2016, 5 door hatch, 2.0L, 6speed auto, near new condition, 51,900kms AHB987 $29,900 Ph 0428320108

Horsham

REDUCED Nissan Navarra STX 4x4 2017, RWC, registered until July 2025, full leather seats, keyless entry, front heated seats, dual battery (in canopy), catch can, electronic breaks, small light bar, canopy airbags, 2" lift, dual Anderson plugs, tow bar, single owned, regularly serviced, regrettable sale, never had an issue with the car, 86,400kms $32,000 Ph 0413992594

Toyota Hilux 2022, 4 wheel drive, auto, diesel, new tyres, warranty, immaculate condition, 48,747kms, 1NV4FU $42,390 plus Gst Ph 0427858264

Ararat man, 67 years old , interests include gym, fishing, camping, singing, acting, Lions Club, bushwalking, ballroom dancing, looking for a lady aged between 40-70 years old, Ph 0467791009 Ararat

Palm tree for removal, free, located Goroke Ph Mick 0400005266

Massage service, very clean, full body massages available for both men and women, very discreet, you come to us or we can come to you, call for quote and booking, in the Wimmera area and beyond Ph 0473311660

Sheep slaughtered at $15 per head Ph Andy 53838240

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

Wanted, Land to "Share-Farm" or "Lease" , anywhere south of Horsham and across to the Grampians, from 50 to 700 acres, cropping country preferred, Ph Roger Hallam at Mockinya 0418822700

Wanted Mackenzie punch and shear, have you got one in the shed not being used? Ph 0499911102

Do you ever ‘lose’ things? To help us, “Find my Device” Apps have even been created. Many of us spend a lot of time looking for things we can’t find.

We also experience times when we are “lost”. Maybe this is where you are today? Maybe you feel like you have wandered off or taken a wrong turn somewhere and your relationship with God isn’t as strong as it used to be. Or maybe you don’t currently have a relationship with God and you feel like your life lacks meaning and direction…or you’re looking for “something more?”

53582560

REDUCED 2019 Toyota Hybrid Camry SL sedan, with all the luxury features of a top of the range Toyota, pearl white, full service history, RWC, 2AM8IL, $30,990 ONO Ph Eddy 0428922335

Sometimes in life, we feel ‘lost.’ In Luke chapter 15 in the Bible, Jesus tells us in the “Parable of the Lost Sheep” that God searches for people who have lost their way. Using sheep as an image for people, Jesus says, “Who of you, having a hundred sheep, if you lost one, does not leave the ninety-nine in the open country, and go after the one that is lost, until you find it? And when you find it… call together your friends and neighbours, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost” (Luke 15:4-6). If you’re

Trades & Services

Christian Devotion

Lost and Found

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

Legal Support Officer

Fixed Term: 2 years

Position number VG/6060

Do you enjoy working in a team environment providing administrative support?

We are seeking a Legal Support Officer to assist with the preparation of agreements, drafting letters and documents, and providing planning and project support. Reporting to the Manager, People Culture & Legal, this role includes data entry, filing, and other administrative tasks relating to statutory processes such as easement creation and water restrictions.

If you are confident and detail-oriented, we would like to hear from you!

Applications close: Friday 21 February 2025

GWMWater contact: Tegan Rudolph, Manager People Culture & Legal

Water Register Administration Officer

Position number VG/2220A

Are you looking for a rewarding career in the water industry?

As our Water Register Administration Officer you will be responsible for processing water trading, amalgamations and subdivision applications, ensuring the seamless operation of our integrated billing systems. You will also assist in raising customer accounts and liaising with customers about their water allowance and account enquiries, as well as maintaining accurate water trading records in the Victorian Water Register.

If you have a strong attention to detail, we encourage you to apply to join our team!

Applications close: Friday 21 February 2025

GWMWater contact: Emma Kilpatrick, Revenue Coordinator

We

Clerical / Yandilla

About the Role

Join the dynamic Yandilla Team as a Ward Clerk, providing vital clerical and administrative support to ensure the efficient day-today operations of the ward. This role is ideal for someone with strong organisational skills and a commitment to maintaining confidentiality in a fast-paced healthcare environment.

Collate and process confidential patient data for reporting.

Prepare and manage medical records for each patient’s care episode.

Liaise with internal departments and external medical service providers.

Provide frontline reception and administrative support to the clinical unit.

Key Responsibilities

Ensure accurate and confidential documentation of patient data.

Liaise effectively with hospital departments and external providers.

be someone making a difference for people in your community

Employment Opportunities

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

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

Facilitator Making a Change (MAC)

30.4 hours per week

$37.35 to $43.08 per hour

Contact: Sarah Sargeant

Closing: 12pm Monday 24 February 2025

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

Place your situation vacant advertisement in

Maintain medical records in compliance with the Medical Records Act.

Support the team with administrative and reception duties.

Contribute to the smooth running of the ward through efficient clerical support.

Skills & Experience

Essential:

Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.

Strong attention to detail and confidentiality in record-keeping.

Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, BOSSnet, and iPM.

– the largest circulating newspaper in the Wimmera, southern Mallee & Grampians.

(03) 5382 1351 horshamreception@ team.aceradio.com.au

Excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills.

Availability for a rotating roster over weekdays and weekends.

Desirable:

Certificate III in Business Administration.

Previous healthcare experience.

Understanding of medical terminology.

To see a full copy of the Position Description, apply please visit our careers page. https://careers.grampianshealth.com/jobinvite/1760//nIf you wish to discuss the role prior to applying, contact Michelle Coutts, Nurse Unit Manager, on 5381 9256 for a confidential discussion.

We’re actively seeking candidates for this role and will review applications as they are submitted. Applications will close when the position is filled.

Position: Full-time Grain Buyer

AGT Foods Australia, a division of AGT Foods is one of the world’s largest suppliers of pulses and staple foods and a global leader on the fore front of the sustainable food movement. With production facilities in VIC, NSW and SA, we purchase lentils, peas, beans and chickpeas from farmers and export these products to over 100 countries around the world.

We are seeking a suitable candidate to fill the role of Grain Buyer at our Horsham facility. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing and maintaining grower relations. Negotiate and execute grain contracts with primary producers. Compile and maintain grower database. Source and compile market, agronomic and grower information. Assist with sale of by-products.

To be considered for either for this role you will need to meet the following criteria:

• Ability to work independently but be part of a greater team.

• Willing to learn quickly and progress in the role. Problem solving and good communication skills are a must.

• Experience in the agricultural/grains industry will be an advantage but not essential.

Strong attention to detail, along with sound numeracy and literacy skills and willing to go the extra step to meet deadlines.

• Strong computer and systems skills including MS Excel and MS Word.

Remuneration package will be at or above award rate depending on experience and will include a mobile phone, laptop and use of a work vehicle.

Please send resume and cover letter to: hr.au@agtfoods.com, applications close C.O.B. Friday 28th February 2025.

Grampians seniors play final season

BY COLIN MACGILLIVRAY

After nearly 60 years of competition, Grampians Cricket Association’s 2024-25 senior season will be its last for the foreseeable future.

At an extraordinary delegates’ meeting on Monday night the association’s clubs resolved to disband the senior competition, which currently comprises only five teams, effective at the end of the season.

GCA president Matt Dean said with Swifts-Great Western signalling its intention to move to a different association, a four-team competition was not viable.

“We didn’t want to get to the same stage like we were at the start of this season and be fighting to get a season running,” he said.

“We asked all clubs what their intentions were and if they were going to put teams forward for next season.

“Pomonal and St Andrews said they would definitely stay and get sides up.

“Halls Gap and Rhymney-Moyston said they would continue with the

GCA provided there were more than four teams, and if there were only four teams then they would explore other options.

“Swifts-Great Western have decided to move based on their best interests and what it would take to keep their club alive.

“Once we got down to four teams, the other two had stated that they weren’t going to continue, so that left us with two teams.

“From there it was a foregone conclusion that we would cease the senior side of cricket.”

Mr Dean said he was ‘bitterly disappointed’ to disband a senior competition with a history dating back to the 1966-67 season, but there was no other option.

“You’ve got the likes of Henry Gunstone, the Bradman of the Bush … who was one of the founders of the GCA,” he said.

“Everyone was somewhat disappointed, saddened and disgruntled, but it’s been a steady decline over the past 10 years – we were headed down this line.

“We tried a few avenues to try to rebirth the competition and listen to what people were saying.

“We took away two-day cricket and introduced the T20s, and we shortened one-day formats to try to keep games moving.

“It wasn’t from a lack of trying. I think unfortunately it’s just that age demographic that we’re missing from 20 to 30 year olds.

“That demographic is what really hurts if you haven’t got mates bringing other mates back to play cricket.

“I feel for those guys who did all the hard work before us to keep the association going.

“I really hoped I could turn it around, but unfortunately that hasn’t been the case.”

Mr Dean said the association was still hopeful of organising a junior competition next season.

“We’ll still strongly support juniors. We’re not 100 per cent sure, and obviously clubs are still working through whether they’ll take their juniors to whatever associations they enter,” he said.

Raceway action heats up

It was hot in more ways than one at Horsham’s Blue Ribbon Raceway on Saturday, with the track hosting the Victorian Wingless Sprint Championships in near 40-degree heat.

The event also included the Victorian Unlimited Sedan titles and junior sedan racing, making it the biggest speedway event of the summer across the Wimmera.

Fans turned out in force and were treated to thrilling action despite two brief power outages caused by the extreme heat, with the temperature remaining at 37 degrees at 8pm.

Blue Ribbon Raceway’s Paris Charles said he was ‘very impressed’ by volunteers’ actions to ensure drivers were kept as comfortable as possible during the first power outage.

“Competitors were parked on track during the first power outage as they sat sweating in three-layer fireproof overalls, gloves, balaclavas and helmets,” he said.

“The club officials ran bottles of water straight out to each competitor to stay hydrated.”

The open-wheeled Victorian Wingless Sprint Championships drew 55 entrants from Victoria as well as Tasmania, South Australia and the Northern Territory.

Qualifying heats were hotly contested, as competitors vied for 20 places in the final. Brad Warren and Todd Moule went undefeated, claiming both of their heats, while singles went to Wayne Logue, Sam Martin, Peter Logue, Carly Walsh and Zack Rogerson.

Warren and Moule shared the front row for the 30-lap final, with Warren getting the better start, followed by Moule, Travis Millar and defending champion Mitchell Broome from Mount Gambier.

By the 10th lap Millar had advanced to second and Broome to third, as Moule steadily dropped back to sixth.

Warren was never headed and went on to claim the Victorian championship, with Millar and Blake Walsh joining him on the podium.

The Unlimited Sedan title saw a field of 14 competitors with a combined field of late models, super sedans and AMCA Nationals battle for the championship.

Local racer Danny Smith fired the first shot by taking the opening heat race, with singles to Trent Susol, Corey Ramsdale and Anthony McKean.

Warrick Taylor looked strong, taking two wins, but was unable to take his place in the 30-lap final due to overheating issues in the extreme condi-

tions. His departure left the door open for the rest of the field, and it was Susol with front-row advantage who led from start to finish, parking his late model in Victory Lane.

Smith flew the flag proudly for the Wimmera, finishing second, and Brian Simon and Gavin Ough rounded out the podium placings.

Supporting the prestige titles were two junior sedan divisions, where future stars shone.

Both classes were combined for a feature race, with South Australian Riley Greig taking the final after starting from the rear of the field.

Jaylen Knight took the runner-up position, followed by local Jack Mills.

Local female racer Rebecca Johnstone was unable to start the feature race after showing good form in her preliminary heat races.

Blue Ribbon Raceway’s next event will see the club host the Victorian Production Sedan Championship, supported by round nine of the JSPA Junior Sedan Series, V8 trucks and a limited sportsman category on March 15, while March 16 will see round six of the Victorian Quarter Midgets Series.

People can visit the Blue Ribbon Raceway Facebook page for more information.

“The initial indication was that they’ll keep their juniors around and that there may be a revamp to have under-14 and under-17 age groups.

“We’ve asked everyone to go back to their clubs and have a serious talk and then come back to us.

“We’ll sit down in our meetings and have a discussion of what we think needs to happen moving forward.

“We want to try to keep cricket in the area and not see another sport disappear from Ararat, Stawell and the surrounding districts.

“I think that would be pretty detrimental to the area if we lose all forms of cricket through all grades and age groups.”

Mr Dean also flagged his intention to step down at the association’s annual general meeting later this year and encouraged parents of junior players to consider nominating for committee positions.

“I’ll most likely step down as I don’t have a junior involved,” he said.

“There are a number of guys who have slowly been trying to work their way off the committee and haven’t

been able to, but now with the possibility of their clubs moving on their hands are pretty much tied.

“I think there are four committee members about to step off, so we’ll be putting out a call for parents of junior players to take on committee responsibilities.

“There are a few committee members who will be staying on, so there are only a few holes to fill.

“I’ll be president until we hold the next AGM, so I’m happy to talk to people and share what information we’ve got.

“I’ve been pretty lucky to have the people I’ve had working around me. It’s certainly made my job a lot easier.”

Mr Dean said he hoped if the GCA maintained a junior competition, its senior ranks could one day reform.

“We hope it’s not goodbye for good, it’s just goodbye for now,” he said.

People wanting more information or to discuss volunteering for a committee position can call Mr Dean on 0417 785 026.

PODIUM FINISHES: Above, 2025 Victorian AWSR Wingless Sprints place-getters, second Travis Millar, winner Brad Warren, and third-place Blake Walsh. Below right, winner Brad Warren, and below left, the field in the wingless final. Pictures: Tanya’s Speedway Photography

Reigning premiers in form

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Ladder leader Horsham Lawn is flexing its muscles with less than a month remaining in the Central Wimmera Tennis Association pennant season, defeating second-placed Central Park handily at the weekend.

The reigning premiers have been near perfect in their title defence this season, with their only loss coming to the Parkers in round three.

A rematch in round eight was washed out, but Lawn exacted its revenge with an 11-sets-to-three victory on Saturday.

Lachlan Punchard and Graeme Wood led the way for Horsham Lawn’s men, with Punchard besting Central Park’s Harry Allan 8-4 in a singles rubber before combining with Wood for an 8-0 win against Allan and Brendan Nitschke in doubles.

Parker Adele Joseph got the better of Tahlia Thompson 8-2 in their singles rubber, but Thompson bounced back in the doubles section to claim sets alongside Cherie Wood, 8-5 over Joseph and Sienna Nitschke, and Gemma Walker, 8-3 over Joseph and Courtney Cameron.

Ella Thompson went undefeated, beating Central Park’s Tara McIntyre 8-5 in a tight singles rubber and combining with Walker and Wood to win both of her doubles encounters.

The 11-96 to 3-73 win gives Horsham Lawn an important six-point advantage over Central Park at the top of the ladder and an even more important psychological advantage with only three rounds remaining before finals.

In the round’s other match, Drung South all but assured itself of a finals berth by defeating St Michaels 9-88 to 5-67 at Drung.

Drung South’s women did not con-

A SPECIAL: Saturday was a battle between Horsham Lawn tennis teams in Central Wimmera Tennis Association A Special competition, with Horsham Lawn Gillespie 9-91 defeating Horsham Lawn Thompson 5-83. Pictured above, Lawn Gillespie’s August Koch won his three sets on the day, and below, Lawn Thompson’s Steph Fromm won two of her three sets.

cede a set, winning each of their singles and doubles rubbers.

Kate-Lyn Perkin fought out an 8-5 win against Saint Mia Rees in the singles section and teamed with Hayley Reid and Sandra Casey to win both her doubles rubbers comfortably.

The Saints had more success on the men’s side of the draw, where Steve Schultz blanked Logan Casey 8-0 in singles and won a doubles rubber alongside Peter Hayes, defeating Casey and Aaron Jennings 8-2.

The result leaves Kalkee, which had a bye at the weekend, 10 points adrift of the top four. A loss to Central Park in round 14 this weekend would mathematically end the Kees’ season.

Saturday’s other match will see St Michaels host Horsham Lawn, while Drung South has a bye.

d Natimuk 2-18; Horsham Lawn Green 4-29 d Quantong 2-26. Section 1 Boys: Horsham Lawn Green 4-31 d Haven 2-25; Central Park Blue 5-33 d Central Park White 1-20; Horsham Lawn White 6-36 d Homers 0-20.

Section 1 Girls: Central Park Blue 4-33 d Haven Red 2-18; Homers 3-27 d Horsham Lawn Green 3-22; Horsham Lawn White 4-33 d Central Park White 2-25; Horsham Lawn Gold

Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

Gliders soar into competition

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Tricky conditions on Sunday failed to suppress the enthusiasm of competitors in the Horsham Week gliding competition, which continues until this Saturday.

More than 30 entrants from Victoria and interstate are in Horsham for the annual competition – one of the oldest continuously operating gliding competitions worldwide.

Among them is 18-year-old Hamilton woman Anoushka de Chelard, who said she was enjoying her first senior gliding competition.

“I’ve done the Joey Glide – the Australian Junior Gliding Championships – twice, and I’ve had two years of coaching there,” she said.

“This is my first senior competition and it’s very interesting.

“It’s a very different group of people to fly amongst, having just come from doing the juniors two weeks ago, but I’ve been enjoying it so far – it’s been very nice flying at a different airfield and learning off all these pilots.

“Realistically that’s what I came in here to do – better my flying by learning off these people, many of whom have competed at very high levels in the past.”

Ms de Chelard said stormy conditions on Sunday forced her to outland – referring to when a pilot is forced to land their glider outside the desig-

nated airfield. She took Monday off but said she was prepared to return to the competition yesterday.

“The gliders with the big wings do a lot better and have a much better glide than I do in my little 15-metre glider,” she said.

“Unfortunately the rain hit and I was straight down to the ground. I outlanded and was unfortunately standing around in the heat and the wind.

“I got a bit dehydrated and because this is a sport where you really want to be on top of the curve, I thought I’d take a rest day and give myself

a chance to hydrate and recover, and then come back fresh on Tuesday.

“I didn’t want to make any silly mistakes, because in this game silly mistakes don’t end well. I’d rather have fun and enjoy it, and if that means taking a day off to be safe, then I’ll gladly do that.”

Horsham Flying Club president Michael Sudholz said despite the conditions, some competitors reached heights of more than 11,000 feet –about 3350 metres – on Sunday.

He said conditions looked favourable for the rest of the week.

“We’ve had a couple of great days and the fires have been south of us, so it hasn’t interrupted us,” he said.

“The week is going to improve as we go on, so we’re expecting a full week from Tuesday onwards, because the weather is going to be really good for our conditions.”

Mr Sudholz labelled Bendigo Gliding Club’s Jack Hart the person to beat, with Hart holding the score lead on Monday.

See next week’s The Weekly Advertiser for a competition wrap.

Clash returns

For the first time in more than a decade, a charity cricket match between members of Victoria Police and staff at Ararat’s Hopkins Correctional Centre will take place at Gordon Street Recreation Reserve.

The match was an annual fixture on the region’s calendar but has not been played in about 15 years, according to organisers.

The match, scheduled for February 16, will raise money for local charity groups including Ararat Men’s Shed, Lions Club of Ararat and the Blue Ribbon Foundation’s Ararat branch. Organisers said they hoped to re-establish the match as an annual event, aiming to strengthen bonds between police and corrections staff while raising money for local groups. The event will be supported by Grampians Cricket Association. For more information, people can follow the Eyewatch – Northern Grampians Police Service Area Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ eyewatchnortherngrampians.

Phillips wins twice

Greg Phillips won both Horsham Golf Croquet’s division two competitions last week, ahead of Rosemary Rees on Saturday and June Liddy on Thursday. Division one’s Ian Rees took out first place on Saturday, with Shirley Price runner-up. Rees was runner-up to Donna Frost on Thursday.

Kerrie Brody won Saturday’s division three competition, while Rachel Cousins won on Thursday.

NEW SENIOR EXPERIENCE: Anoushka de Chelard, 18, is competing in her first Horsham Week Gliding competition. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Eagle Bell piles on century

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Brim-Kellalac-Sheep Hills

came within two wickets of the first outright win of the Horsham Cricket Association A Grade season on Saturday, defeating Lubeck-Murtoa handily at Brim.

Sent in to bat on the first day of the two-day match on January 25, the Eagles piled up 210 runs behind a century from Tim Bell.

The Mudlarks resumed at 4-27 in reply on Saturday and, despite a patiently crafted innings of 54 not out from skipper Josh Hedt, could only manage 118, leaving them 92 runs in arrears.

The Eagles batted again in pursuit of an outright win, with Sam Leith and Bell making quickfire innings of 27 and 20 respectively to push the team to a declaration at 5-72 after 12.3 overs.

The Mudlarks had 26 overs to survive, but lost opener Shannon Reddie in the first over to be 1-4.

Eagle bowlers Lachlan McGinniss and Isaac McPherson picked up where they left off in the first innings – where they claimed three and four wickets respectively – as they picked up several key scalps.

But Lubeck-Murtoa batsmen Thomas Barrand, 28 from 43 balls, Cameron Newell, four from 47, Oscar Gawith, 32 not out from 22, and Xavier Shevlin, 16-ball duck, absorbed just enough overs to save a second-innings defeat.

At the end of the day the Mudlarks were 8-92, with the Eagles forced to settle for first-innings points.

At Horsham City Oval the Noradjuha-Toolondo Bullants were even closer to an outright win, finishing just five runs short against the Horsham Tigers at stumps on day two.

The Tigers had posted a firstinnings total of 9-198, with the Bullants resuming at 1-84 on Saturday.

They raced past Horsham’s total for the loss of only four wickets, with Jamie Byrne, 59, Austin Smith, 35, and Justtin Combe, 34, leading the charge.

With first-innings points secure, the Bullants declared at 4-207,

giving the red-hot Matt Combe another crack at the Tigers batting line-up.

Combe followed his first-inning figures of 7-50 with 4-24 in the second innings, removing Tigers opener Tyler Puls for a duck and claiming the scalps of Gavin Brown, Haydn Smith and Martyn Knight.

With four ducks on the Horsham Tigers scorecard the team seemed in danger of total collapse, but as has been the case many times this season, Angus Adams came to his side’s rescue.

Adams, the association’s leading scorer by a staggering 200 runs, made an unbeaten 51 as he soaked up 98 balls, each one shortening the Bullants’ potential time to chase an outright win.

When the Tigers finally finished their second innings at 9-106, they left Noradjuha-Toolondo only 12 overs to chase a target of 98 for outright victory.

The Bullants were up to the challenge however, with Justtin Combe slashing four boundaries in a quick 24 and Jason Harris lofting a six and four fours in an unbeaten 34 that came off just 22 deliveries.

and Dom Rose did just enough to hold off Harris and Matt Combe in the final two overs, with the Bullants ending their charge at 3-93.

Elsewhere, the Horsham Saints recorded a convincing firstinnings win against Laharum at Coughlin Park.

day one. Adam Atwood, 32, and Matt Kerr, 34 not out, were the only Homers batsmen to do any real damage, with Warriors bowlers Josh Lees, 3-25, and Nathan Alexander, 2-16, picking up key wickets.

spOrT

Tigers keep in touch with top

Pomonal loosened St Andrews’ grip on Grampians Cricket Association flag favouritism with a threewicket victory at the weekend.

In a low-scoring match, the Tigers elected to bowl first after winning the toss.

None of the St Andrews batsmen exceeded 25 thanks to tight bowling from Lachy Green, 3-21, and Tyler Cronin, 3-8, with Saints all out for 108.

The Tigers replied steadily, and with contributions from Cronin, 25, Green, 24, and Matt Peel, 23, were able to bring up the winning runs with 25 balls to spare, finishing 7-110.

Pomonal’s victory keeps it in touch with both the Saints and Swifts-Great Western at the top of the ladder.

The weekend’s other match saw Halls Gap triumph against Rhymney-Moyston, in the process opening a nine-point lead on the ladder that effectively ends Rhymney-Moyston’s season.

The Gappers, on the back of 94 from opener Max McMahon, reached 10-196, a target too great for Rhymney-Mosyon’s batsmen.

McMahon’s 94 came off just 102 balls and he was unlucky not to score a ton. The best of the RhymneyMoyston bowlers was Danial Taylor with 5-23.

Draw: S St Andrews v Rhymney-Moyston @ Gordon St, Halls Gap v Swifts-Great Western @ Central Park, Pomonal – bye.

This weekend’s round will see St Andrews attempt to regain winning form against Rhymney-Moyston at Gordon Street, but the Saints’ batsmen will need to improve.

Danial Taylor will be the danger bowler for Rhymney-Moyston, assisted by Euan Lennie.

The Saints’ openers missed out last round and will look to get their team away to a good start.

Rhymney-Moyston’s batsmen also failed to fire and will have to improve to challenge the Saints’ bowlers.

The other match will feature Halls Gap attempting to continue its good form against the Swifts-Great Western Combine, which just missed out against the Saints.

The Gappers will be looking for a repeat score from Max McMahon, together with assistance from other batsmen to post a total beyond the Combine’s batters, who always seem to make a competitive score.

On Sunday, February 9, the Grampians Cricket Association will renew its rivalry with the WimmeraMallee Cricket Association in a one-off senior representative game.

The current score is 2-1 to the Grampians, setting the scene for a competitive game at Donald from 11am.

Harris’ six, which came on the first ball of the penultimate over, reduced the equation to 15 runs required from 11 balls for his side.

But Tiger bowlers Tyler Puls

Having already dismissed the Demons for 148, the Saints elected to bat through day two to finish 6-228, with Brock Hamerston’s unbeaten 51 leading the way.

West Wimmera also had little trouble converting its dominant position to a first-innings win, bowling Homers out for 140 after making an imposing 7-321 on

Another round of two-day matches will begin this weekend, with Horsham Saints hosting West Wimmera at Coughlin Park, Horsham Tigers travelling to Murtoa to play the Mudlarks, Laharum at home to Colts and Noradjuha-Toolondo playing Homers at Noradjuha. Brim-Kellalac-Sheep Hills has a bye.

The Grampians team is: Ryan Skiller, St Andrews; Aiden Graveson, Swifts-Great Western; Max McMahon, captain, Halls Gap; Zac Marrow, Swifts-Great Western; Charlie McIntosh, Halls Gap, Matt Heffer, vice-captain, Swifts-Great Western; Nicholas Pell, St Andrews; James Hosking, St Andrews; Glenn Cosgriff, Rhymney-Moyston; Brad Carter, Swifts-Great Western; Vincent Hammon, St Andrews, Eddie Malpas, wicket keeper, Pomonal.

– One Short

EDGED: Bullants’ Matt Combe edges a ball through slips for four runs. Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

LEFTY: Horsham Tigers’ Dom Rose in full flight.

Caccaviello to lead assembly

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Horsham’s Tony Caccaviello

will lead the Wimmera Regional Sports Assembly, WRSA, from Monday after the board announced his appointment as its new executive officer last week.

Mr Caccaviello will take over the role from long-serving executive officer David Berry, who in December announced he would step down after 15 years with the WRSA.

Mr Caccaviello has been Yarriambiack Shire Council’s chief operating officer since August 2023 and previously worked in an administrative role for Cricket Victoria.

A long-time member of the Horsham Cricket Association, he said he was keen to support the WRSA’s mission of growing and developing grassroots sport across the Wimmera.

“It’s a pretty prestigious organisation that has a long-standing history of delivering some awesome benefits for the wider Wimmera community,” he said.

“I saw the opportunity come up and thought it would be great to work with an organisation that has the ability to make that kind of impact for the community that I live in and love being a part of.

“I live in Horsham and I love the Wimmera.

“I’ve been here over 10 years now and I have a young family here, so I’m

keen to contribute to making it a better place to be.”

Mr Caccaviello said while Mr Berry left ‘very big shoes to fill’, he believed his past experience would serve him well.

“I’ve got some professional experience in sports administration and I’ve worked in local government and management,” he said. “With the sports assembly, there are lots of people doing lots of amazing things, so it’s about how we can connect everyone together to get as much done as possible.

“I’m very aware of the size of the shoes I’ll need to walk in, but I’m keen to do my best.

“I’m so excited to work with the team that we have, both at staff and board level.

“They’re an incredibly committed and inspiring group of people to work with, so I’m pretty pumped to get started.”

WRSA chair Jeff Pekin said the board was thrilled to appoint Mr Caccaviello.

“With his extensive leadership experience, passion for community engagement and expertise in creating inclusive environments, he is the ideal choice to lead Wimmera Regional Sports Assembly,” Mr Pekin said.

“His vision and dedication will ensure we continue to support and empower our sporting clubs and com-

munities across the region. Tony’s dedication to fostering safe and inclusive sporting environments aligns perfectly with Wimmera Regional Sports Assembly’s mission.

“I saw the opportunity come up and thought it would be great to work with an organisation that has the ability to make that kind of impact for the community that I live in and love being a part of”

– Tony Caccaviello, left

Munyard, Livingstone win selection

Horsham Amateur Basketball Association juniors Micah Livingstone and Levi Munyard will be part of a 12-person Victoria Country team to compete at Basketball Australia Under-18 National Championships in Queensland’s Moreton Bay.

The pair will follow in the footsteps of other Horsham juniors to represent Victoria Country, including Mitch Creek, Aaron Bruce and Chloe Bibby – players who went on to represent Australia and play professionally in international leagues.

Victoria Country finished with a bronze medal at this year’s under-18 championships and is expected to be firmly in contention for another medal this year.

Horsham Amateur Basketball Association congratulated both players via a post on social media yesterday, labelling their selection ‘huge’.

Basketball Victoria congratulated all its under-18 representatives in country and metro teams in a statement on its website.

“His strategic and operational expertise will play a pivotal role in advancing the organisation’s initiatives across the Wimmera.” Mr Caccaviello will join current staff members Matthew Jolly, Lydia Schneider and Vedang Ovalekar, along with WRSA board members Jess Cannane, Gayle Leith, Paul Mackereth, Greg Schultz and Mr Pekin.

“The national championships represent the pinnacle of competition for emerging athletes, giving them the chance to shine on the biggest stage,” the post said.

“With fierce matchups ahead, our Victorian teams are ready to leave it all on the court.”

Sport Development Traineeship

Natimuk

Closing date: ASAP

Part-Time Employment Requirements:

• Passion to work with children in sports and a desire to have a positive impact.

• Complete the fundamentals coaching course

• Willingness to learn and commit to on-the-job training.

• Strong teamwork and communication skills, ability to motivate and encourage

• Basic understanding of sports-related principles.

To discuss this opportunity further, contact Nathan Keel on 0408 109 324.

Road Worker

Donald Closing date: ASAP

Essential Skills:

• White Card

• Medium Rigid Truck Licence

• Clean driving history

• Able to pass pre-employment checks including medical assessment, drug and alcohol screening & police check

Preferred Skills & Experience

• Traffic Management Certificate or willingness to attain

• Plant operator’s competency

• Current First Aid Certificate

• Experience in a similar role advantageous

For more information contact Brendan Schier on 0427 346 655.

Individual Support Traineeship

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.

Apprenticeship Chef

• Passion for cooking and culinary arts

• Ability to work well in a team environment

• Strong attention to detail and ability to multitask

• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays

For more information contact Daryl Eastwell on 0407 364 654.

Players impress

BY DAVID BERRY

If the standard of the first trial is any indication, Phantoms Volleyball Club is in for a successful Victorian Volleyball League season in 2025.

That is the view of coaches who ran the first of two trials on Saturday, with Volleyball Horsham members to the fore.

Phantoms president Ben Hassell said the level of play, even this early in the season, was high by both male and female groups, with just on 100 athletes from across country Victoria participating, setting a higher bar than last year.

“The players were really keen to impress and speaking with the coaches at the end of the day, they were more than happy with firstly, the turn out, but most importantly, the standard set,” he said.

Hassell said for the men, there was a need to separate the premier and state league aspirants, given the high number of athletes who registered to trial, with 20 at the premier trial and 40 at the state league trial.

“In 2024 we ran four male teams and had to cut players at the end of the trial period, and it looks like the same thing will happen again, given the numbers we had,” he said.

“But the standard of our teams will be much stronger, with a number of quality players coming in at the premier one level, which will in turn cascade down through premier two, state league one and two.”

Top female player Laelah Robertson attended and after a hiatus from the club, was also impressed by the standard.

“I was lucky to trial with the premier girls and there would have been at least 20 players at the level, which was unreal from a training perspective as you received quality touches all the time and you had to be on your toes, right from the start,” she said.

“There were at least six girls who were apologies for this trial, who would easily be included in the premier group, so the depth looks great, meaning the competition for spots will be intense.”

Robertson said having familiar faces around her also helped her feel comfortable at the trial.

“Molly Carter, Paige Hemley, Tamikah Dockrill, Sophie Quick and Ella Van Duren all trialled and added to the quality and depth of talent,” she said.

A second trial will be on Saturday in Bendigo, with state league aspirants on first from 10am to noon, followed by the girls from noon to 2pm then the premier men from 2pm to 4pm.

Come-and-try night

The first of two come-and-try nights will be staged tonight from 6pm to 7pm at St Brigid’s College stadium.

The night will give those interested in participating in the summer season, which starts on February 24, a chance to give the sport a try before making the commitment.

There will be two courts set up – one for adults and another for kids, so all who attend will be given the opportunity to try out.

There is no cost to attend and if interested people cannot make it, a second night will be held next Wednesday, February 12, from 5.30pm.

Registrations now open

Team registrations are being taken for the summer season, with entries closing on February 19 for all grades.

To register a team, people can visit the Volleyball Horsham website for the registration link. Already there has been good numbers register, so teams are encouraged to get in quick in order not to miss out.

Further enquiries can be submitted to info@ volleyballhorsham.com.au.

Redbacks shine at tournament

Two teams of eight-and-under soccer players from Ararat showcased their skills at the Major League Junior Soccer Summer 6s Tournament in Ballarat last month.

The six-a-side tournament saw the Redbacks teams compete against other young players from Ballarat, Colac, Maryborough and Warrnambool.

Tyler Hamilton coached both Ararat sides, which encouraged each other throughout the tournament.

The first day of play on January 20 saw both teams play four games apiece, but both missed

out on finals qualification.

On the following day, Ararat team one topped the ladder and earned a place in the grand final.

Using substitutes from the other Ararat team, the Redbacks finished runners-up.

With temperatures above 34 degrees, games were shortened to six-minute halves, and the Redbacks juniors had to adjust to playing on a synthetic soccer pitch for the first time.

“The boys played brilliantly. It took them a bit to get used to the warm conditions and the synthetic surface, but

they showed plenty of grit and determination. I couldn’t be prouder,” Hamilton said.

Rod Jerram and Ararat Community Sports supported both teams, which comprised regular Ararat futsal players.

Taking part in the tournament were: Ararat Redbacks team one, Akaas Singh, Eamon Thomas, Cody Hamilton, Winston Mills, Flynn Till and Leroy Walker; team two, Levi Wilde, Henry Beer, Alex Rickinson, Sawyer Jackson, Hemi Wilde and Toby Louder.

SUCCESS: Ararat Redbacks soccer players after taking to the field at a Ballarat six-a-side tournament, with coach Tyler Hamilton.