The Weekly Advertiser – Wednesday, April 10, 2024

BY LAUREN HENRY

The community will have the opportunity to raise key issues and ask questions related to crime at a Horsham police forum on Wednesday next week.

The Horsham Police Service Area Neighbourhood Policing Forum is part of a series of forums rolled out by Victoria Police across the state.

The Horsham forum will explore a range of topics including current crime trends and prevention; young people; family violence; road polic-

ing; and drugs and drug-related crime. Horsham local area commander Inspector Caroline Johnson invited all areas of the community, including representatives from services and organisations, to attend the forum, and talk with police about what was important in the community.

Insp Johnson said these forums were an opportunity to strengthen local partnerships by sharing information to inform decision-making.

A panel of senior police will lead discussions on community safety concerns.

Detective Senior Sergeant Dave Ellis will discuss crime and drugs; Acting Sergeant Owen Lyons – youth; Snr Sgt Brendan Broadbent – road policing; and Senior Constable Sam Foster – family violence.

Wimmera Superintendent Sharon McCrory will also be in attendance.

“It’s not just about us, as police officers, getting up and talking – the point of it is to have our community talk to us,” Superintendent McCrory said.

“We have those five subjects to start us off, but someone could attend and

want to ask about something different. We want them to speak to us and have their concerns and feelings heard.”

Insp Johnson said Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Shane Patton was clear in his expectations of police to engage with their local communities.

“We aim to identify shared areas for action afterwards,” she said.

“I’m also hoping that it opens up some relationships, so I get to know some people in the community and find out what we can we do to make Horsham safer.”

The forum will be from 9.30am to 12.30pm on Wednesday, April 17, at Harvest Church, 17 Florence Street, Horsham.

Refreshments will also be offered – people can include dietary requirements when they register.

To register, people can visit www.eventbrite.com/e/horshamneighbourhood-policing-forumtickets-863410934347 or for questions, email HORSHAM-UNI-OIC@ police.vic.gov.au.

• New Horsham inspector, page 3.

FULL FLIGHT: Horsham Motorcycle Club hosted round two of the ProMX Motocross Championship on Sunday, with more than 2500 people attending Australia’s top-class motocross competition. The event not only broadcast the Horsham track to the world, but it provided an economic boost to the region. Full story, page 46. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Custodians of the Wesley Performing Arts Centre are working to re-open the beloved Roberts Avenue building with the help of public fundraising.

The campaign aims to raise $2 million to fully restore the Wesley building and give it a refreshed purpose as a niche performing arts space.

The planned upgrades include a flat floor all the way through the whole venue from street front to back of house, removing access and mobility issues.

The main auditorium would have options for various set ups and include removable seating.

Wesley Committee President Mary Starr said the group had been working with Council over the past few years to determine demand, including upgrades to improve the building’s access and functionality.

“The changes will allow The Wesley to cater for smaller scale events that don’t suit or fit the Horsham Town Hall venue, such as forums, funerals, recitals, workshops and civil ceremonies,” Ms Starr said.

“Post completion of works, the venue will be programmed and operated by the experienced team at the Horsham Town Hall, with ownership transferred to Horsham Rural City Council, which is the desire of the Committee,” she said. Council previously matched the Wesley Committee’s cash contribution to the project of $225,000 enabling the Committee to kick off a fundraising campaign with $450,000.

From 24 April, the Wesley Committee will seek to raise an additional $550,000 from community donations and contributions from corporate and philanthropic entities.

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

The Wesley Committee is a non-profit group with deductible gift recipient and tax concession charity status, allowing contributions to be classified as tax deductible.

From 24 April 2024, donations will be accepted at Horsham Town Hall seven days a week in cash, cheque, card or electronic funds transfer.

For more information about the Re-Open Wesley campaign visit hrcc.vic.gov.au/ reopen-wesley or scan the QR code.

Hocking Street upgrade complete

Council is pleased to announce the successful completion of the Hocking Street reconstruction project. After months of work, Hocking Street has been transformed into a modern and efficient thoroughfare.

Key highlights:

Closure Period: Hocking Street was temporarily closed to traffic starting from September 18, 2023, allowing for the necessary reconstruction work to take place. The closure spanned from Memorial Drive through to Firebrace Street.

Detour Routes: During the closure, additional detour signage was in place along O’Callaghan’s Parade and Baker Street to guide road users.

Better access to City Oval: Upon completion, Hocking Street will remain a two-way, straight road, connecting O’Callaghans Parade and the bottom end of Firebrace Street. It provides much improved parking and access to Horsham City Oval.

Enhanced Parking: The project includes sealed parking bays, upgraded drainage systems, pedestrian crossings, and footpaths on both sides of the street.

Challenges Faced: The project encountered challenges due to the wet start to the year, which impacted construction timelines. Despite these difficulties, our dedicated team persevered to ensure the successful completion of the reconstruction.

Final Seal: While the reconstruction is complete, the final seal and line marking will be applied once heavy machinery finishes its work on the nearby City Oval multipurpose stage construction.

HRCC thanks the community for their patience during the construction period.

BOOK OF THE WEEK

Title: Broken Bay Author: Margaret Hickey

Available formats: Book at Horsham Library and BorrowBox eBook

Abstract: Detective Sergeant Mark Ariti's holiday in Broken Bay comes at an inopportune time as tragedy strikes the South Australian fishing town. Renowned cave-diver Mya Rennik drowns while exploring a sinkhole on farmer Frank Doyle's land. Ordered by his boss to assist, Mark discovers a new mystery surrounding a local woman's disappearance two decades earlier. Delving into the town's history reveals tensions between rival families, the Doyles and Sinclairs. As another murder occurs, Mark ponders the dangers lurking in Broken Bay's underground and its secretive surface.

Why we recommend it: The author is Australian and paints Limestone Coast beautifully. Hickey has published three books so far and we love her writing style that flows seamlessly. It’s hard to recommend this book without spoiling it, but if you enjoy old loyalty, decades long family feuds, mystery and adventure, you’re guaranteed to enjoy the elaborate plot twists of this novel.

You can view other recommendations at wimmeralibraries.vic.gov.au

Wednesday 10 April day is the last day to register your pets.

Registering and microchipping your pets is crucial for responsible pet ownership.

If your beloved companion ever goes astray, proper registration ensures they can be safely returned home.

All dogs and cats over the age of three months must be registered with Council. Pets that are desexed are eligible for a discount on their registration fees.

Simply bring in your documentation to qualify.

Pet registration fees contribute to the care of animals while their owners are found.

HAVE YOUR SAY

Current Community Engagements AGE FRIENDLY PLAN

The Age Friendly Plan aims to ensure HRCC becomes an increasingly age-inclusive region.

The draft plan is available for public comment until Wednesday 24 April. For details visit the Have Your Say section of HRCC's website

A digitally enhanced image showing the entrance without ramps and stairs.

The Wesley's organ pipes.

Inspector to strengthen relationships

BY LAUREN HENRY

New Horsham police Inspector

Caroline Johnson will focus on strengthening relationships between police and the community.

Having started in the Horshambased role in March, Insp Johnson’s police career has mostly been based in metropolitan areas – except for a stint as Detective Sergeant in charge of Northern Grampians Criminal Investigation Unit, based in Ararat, from 2017 to 2019

Her most recent role before Horsham was Acting Inspector in North West Metro Division Two, based in Footscray, and prior to that she was a Detective Senior Sergeant-in-charge of Wyndham.

“I do know my way around, obviously more so the Northern Grampians area and I’m learning about Horsham,” Insp Johnson said.

“We obviously had meetings and we were always up and about up here, so I knew a lot of friendly faces when I came back.”

Insp Johnson said she had noticed in her first four weeks at Horsham that it was ‘a really good, really strong community’.

She said one of her major focuses was building strong relationships between police and the community.

“It’s about giving our community a voice and being able to understand what’s important to them and what their priorities are as a community, because it may well be different to our priorities and we don’t want to be on different pages,” she said.

“I know there are already strong relationships with the community and the police, but I really want to strengthen those relationships, and work towards a better Horsham.

“Not saying that it’s not great now, but I just really want to get those ideas of what our community wants and needs, and be able to deliver on what that is.”

Insp Johnson said methods such as community sentiment surveys and forums were ideal ways to gauge the is-

sues that were important to residents. She said issues such as road policing always ranked high in importance for the community.

“I come now into this role with fresh eyes and no preconceived ideas about road policing because it’s not my speciality, but we do have speciality police in that area – it’s really interesting that’s the focus here,” she said.

Insp Johnson regularly drives on the Western Highway where she witnesses first-hand the issues around driver behaviour and road conditions.

And its not just the Horsham community that Insp Johnson is getting to know – she also overseas police officers in Hindmarsh and West Wimmera municipalities, and has already visited many towns in those shires.

“If people want to learn about community policing, they need to go and spend some time at a one-member station. They do a wonderful job,” Insp Johnson said.

“The community engagement they do is – that’s community policing.”

Insp Johnson said family violence was always an area of focus for Victoria Police and she was aware that Horsham had high rates of family violence.

“We do everything we can to put the services in place for both perpetrators and affected family members of family violence situations,” she said.

“It’s something we’re diligent about,

Blue Ribbon truck show driving interest

Horsham will host a truck show in November, the first of its kind in about 30 years.

Blue Ribbon Raceway leaders are hosting the event at Horsham Showground during the first weekend in November, which will benefit both Blue Ribbon Raceway and Wimmera Against Cancer in Kids, WACK.

Event co-ordinator Stephen Car-

man said despite being in early days of planning, it was shaping up to be a huge event that would benefit the city.

“We are expecting upwards of 150 trucks, from vintage 1950s to trucks that have come off the highway for the weekend,” he said.

There will be several sections in the show, including bests in custom,

fleet of three or more, historic –pre-1994, working rig, tow recovery, farm truck, tipper, restored, Rig of the Show, and public choice.

A children’s convoy will take place from 9am on the Sunday, with proceeds going to WACK.

“The last time there was a truck show was in Pimpinio in the early 1990s,” Mr Carman said.

“We think it’ll be great for Horsham. There will be food trucks, a bar and country music artists including Allan Webster, The Austins and Don Costa.”

Mr Carman said people wanting more information could call him on 0429 989 278 or visit Horsham Truck Show on Facebook.

– Bronwyn Hastings

it’s something we’re always learning about, and as always, there are opportunities in that space to get better. “There’s opportunities in all areas of policing for us to get better and hopefully with a new set of eyes and some new visions, I can bring that to the forefront of the policing here in Horsham.”

Child injured in dog attack

Horsham Rural City Council is appealing for information following a dog attack that left a three-year-old boy requiring surgery.

Two medium-sized dogs were unaccompanied and unrestrained when they attacked the child opposite Farrar Avenue near the Wimmera River, between 4.15pm and 4.30pm on Friday.

The dogs are described as shorthaired, possibly not wearing collars, with one being black and the other white with black patches.

The boy’s parents intervened and ended the attack before the dogs left the area in opposite directions along Barnes Boulevard. It is not known if the dogs belong to the same owner. The council’s local laws team attended the scene, door-knocking the area for more information.

Witnesses to the dogs in the area, or those with CCTV footage, are asked to call the council on 5382 9777.

Restrictions lift

Ararat and Horsham rural cities, and Hindmarsh, Northern Grampians and West Wimmera shires’ fire danger periods will cease at 1am on Monday. Country Fire Authority, CFA, declares the fire danger period for each municipality. Despite the lifting of restrictions, residents are encouraged to check with councils regarding local laws.

ON TRACK: Horsham truck drivers

Tim Driller and Stephen Carman are preparing for a Horsham Truck Show in November.

Horsham police Inspector Caroline Johnson

Free Kinder: Enrol for 2024

Free Kinder is available for three and four-year-old children in Victoria at participating services.

Free Kinder is available in sessional (standalone) and long day care (childcare) settings, saving families up to $2,500 each year, per child.

At kindergarten, your child will:

• learn language, literacy and numeracy skills through play, art, music and dance

• learn to express themself and make friends in a safe and caring environment

• build skills and confidence before primary school.

Contact your preferred kinder service or local council to learn about how to enrol for 2024.

Visit: vic.gov.au/kinder

Create outdoor living spaces you love to come home to.

That’s living.

Grace and James can’t wait to welcome you to Horsham’s newest shopping experience, living + Poolwerx.

Paramedics push for fair finish times

Wimmera paramedics say taking industrial action to bargain for a new enterprise agreement is more about fighting for a fair finishing time, rather than a wage increase.

Paramedics are in negotiations with Ambulance Victoria and the State Government for a new enterprise agreement, with about 80 meetings taking place so far to discuss improvements to wages, conditions, better rural resourcing, and incentivising longevity in the job.

But Horsham paramedic Paul Jacobs said for many members, the most important claim was the ability to finish work after the shift ends.

“Currently, Ambulance Victoria is relying on about 800 hours a day in forced overtime,” he said.

“That’s crews who are destined to finish their shift at say five o’clock, who are caught on a job. They might be dispatched 20 minutes before the end of their shift to a job that’s 50

Base for creativity

Wimmera students have spent their school holidays embracing their creativity by helping Horsham Arts Council prepare for its upcoming production of Shrek the Musical. The arts council has partnered with Horsham Town Hall to attract youth interested in different aspects of the arts, through the SPARK Arts and Education Program.

Shrek director and set designer Emily Friedrichsen said the arts council loved enabling young people to be involved.

She said students who helped work on the sets for the production – based on the Oscar-winning animated film – would have their names printed in the program.

“The idea is we are constantly teaching them about the design process at school and now they can actually be involved and see the designs come to life on the stage,” she said.

“I have quite a few kids from the secondary college who have been coming out, and their parents.”

Friedrichsen said people could buy a $10 associate membership fee for the arts council, which covered insurance, which allowed them to spend time at the HAC shed working behind the scenes.

kilometres away and they’re not finishing on time.

“And we don’t have a choice. You’re forced to do that. And even if you’re after your finish time and you’re on your way back to branch, you can still be dispatched to another job. There’s no protections.”

Mr Jacobs, a paramedic for 25 years, said crews understood that paramedics needed to work overtime at times.

“Nobody objects to those more serious jobs being caught because that’s what we’re here for,” he said.

“But our beef is around the ambulance triage system, which is very risk adverse and jobs that really don’t need a lights and sirens response are getting them, which means crews are then caught up doing overtime for excessive periods for things that really don’t warrant it.”

Mr Jacobs said the coding of jobs was a factor, as was policies and procedures about end-of-shift management.

“The reality is we have a limited amount of resourcing,” he said.

“And if we’re sending crews to lessurgent cases, then they’re not going to be available when the next job, which may be a sicker patient, comes in.”

Making sacrifices

Mr Jacobs said it was as if paramedics were being asked to choose between their jobs and their families.

“We have crews that have, and it might sound trivial, but it’s a cumulative thing, missed out on birthdays or dinners with partners or whatever it be because they’re caught at work,” he said.

“One of the frustrating things I find is Ambulance Victoria talks about being a family-friendly organisation, and it’s all about work-life balance.

“But the reality for the guys on the ground is that’s not the case. People are making big sacrifices.

“We have a number of young staff here at Horsham who are into their local sports, but it’s very difficult for them to commit to anything outside

of work because they just never know what time they are going to finish.”

Mr Jacobs said a lot of the problems were also due to ramping at hospitals.

“Hospitals are underfunded and under-resourced. The local crews work really well with the Wimmera-based hospital staff, but the reality is their hands are tied,” he said.

“So we have crews waiting one, two hours at times at hospital. And that, again, takes resources off the road.”

Paramedics are now taking industrial action, including members speaking with the media, campaign messages on ambulance vehicles, not collecting billing details, and crews that are ramped at hospitals for greater than 40 minutes activating their beacons.

“We have the ability or an option of going on strike, but nobody wants to do that,” he said.

“Obviously, it’s there as an option, but we’re trying to look at other industrial actions that put pressure on the government to negotiate with us rather than anything that’s going to

“It’s not all just about being on stage, there are so many elements you can be involved in, like costume design,” she said.

“We’ve other kids making armour, using foam to sculpt costumes rather than just sewing.

“We’ve also got prosthetics. There’s lots of different aspects, it’s huge.

“There is an incredible amount of people and they’re all locally sourced.

“We are incredibly lucky to have so many people involved, like Jordan

Fedke, who’s doing the Dragon and all the prosthetics, and Becky Bone, who’s helping to build the knights and Dragon and Donkey.

“Millie Henley is making our rat puppets and the ears and everything so they move.

“It’s going to be a great show, I can’t wait.”

Friedrichsen said she was also working closely alongside arts council newcomer Will Lynch to ensure everything would be ready on time.

“There’s some new people and some new faces and lots going on. It’s very exciting – and it’s only three weeks away,” she said.

The arts council will present eight shows of Shrek the Musical, including a sensory performance, in Horsham Town Hall theatre from May 2 to 12.

Tickets are available at the town hall or via website www. horshamtownhall.com.au.

– Sarah Matthews

adversely affect the public.” A recent survey of Victorian Ambulance Union members identified that one in five paramedics were looking at leaving the job in the next year – on top of a workforce where more than half of paramedics have been in the job for less than five years.

Victorian Ambulance Union secretary Danny Hill said it was disappointing the EBA negotiations had been going for more than a year now without an outcome.

“This EBA is about making the job more survivable with better worklife balance, reasonable workload, and getting home to family on time. Without that we will continue to lose the experienced workforce,” he said.

“While we have made ground in some areas, most of the workforce is only being offered a three percent increase to wages and little change to working conditions.

“Ambos are dedicated to saving lives, but they deserve to have a life, too.”

Register for classic event

Registrations for the annual Mother’s Day Classic are now open for the Horsham, Stawell and Edenhope fundraising events.

After 26 years of national fundraising for breast cancer research, the 2024 campaign is the first to include ovarian cancer.

The motto for the Sunday, May 12 event is ‘Walk or Run. Move till we’re done’, with the events to include a barbecue breakfast, coffee van, face-painting and spot prizes. Early-bird prices are available for those who register before April 14 via www.mothersdayclassic.com.au.

Businesses are also encouraged to register teams; the Horsham event will see the MixxFM Workplace Warriors Shield and a $3200 advertising package awarded to the business with the most participants.

Art, craft sessions

Ararat Gallery TAMA will host free school holiday art and craft sessions in Pomonal Hall tomorrow and Friday.

The drop-in sessions, from 10am to 3pm, will enable children to unleash their creativity with a variety of activities, including clay sculpting, beading, drawing and origami. People can visit website www. araratgallerytama.com.au or call 5355 0220 for more information.

HAPPY HELPER: Ava Harvey, 8, helps to make sets and costumes for Horsham Arts Council’s production of Shrek the Musical.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Housing hinders region

Alack of housing options across the Wimmera is hindering people relocating to the region for work.

Rural Northwest Health, RNH, has hired 105 new staff since 2022 – 92 at Warracknabeal, 12 at Hopetoun and one at Beulah.

RNH people, culture and safety executive manager Glenn Hynes said a lack of accommodation for new staff continued to prove a barrier.

Mr Hynes said RNH had a goal of becoming the employer of choice in the Wimmera and Mallee, but the housing shortage was an issue in attracting new staff.

“The lack of accommodation in the region is proving an issue as new staff looking to relocate are struggling to find housing,” he said.

“Social support is also an issue with many new staff, and particularly the large proportion of new staff who have joined RNH from overseas, reporting they can feel quite lonely and isolated.

“We’d love to see the community rally around and make a strong effort to make our new residents feel welcome.

“Social support is also an issue with many new staff, and particularly the large proportion of new staff who have joined RNH from overseas, reporting they can feel quite lonely and isolated”

– Glenn Hynes

“Diversity enriches our communities in so many ways, and it would be wonderful to see everyone embracing the new staff and helping them become part of the community, while learning from each other and exploring the fantastic Yarriambiack and Wimmera regions.”

Mr Hynes said it was a significant achievement for the health service to hire the high number of employees as the region struggled with housing shortages, as well as continuing to recover from COVID-19 and drought.

He said not only was it exciting to have so many new staff bringing various professional skills and experience to RNH, but also their wide-ranging life experience and culture.

“Recruitment has been a major focus of the people and culture team, and we had certainly been incredibly busy trying to fill the vacant positions, alongside our recruitment partner Latitude Recruitment,” he said.

“An immense amount of work, time and expense goes into recruitment.

“This is not only the job design and creating the position description, but also the advertising and head hunting, and then the interviewing, screening, visa application assistance, relocation support, and onboarding processes.

“When you consider that each interview takes an average of one hour, even if the candidate is later unsuccessful, it’s a huge time commitment.

“To see the sheer number of staff who have joined RNH over the past two years is rewarding.”

Mr Hynes encouraged anyone with a property for rent within the Yarriambiack Shire to call RNH executive manager of environmental services David Siddall on 5396 1200 or email david.siddall@rnh. net.au.

A history in pictures – hotel still standing

Horsham’s Victoria Hotel now boasts a photo gallery in its thoroughfare from car park to bar, highlighting the hotel’s 149-year history.

Hotel manager John Jubilo said he had seen historical images of other Horsham landmarks and began making inquiries into finding photographs of the Victoria Hotel.

“I ended up at the historical

society where they showed me quite a few photos,” he said.

“I told them I’d buy the whole lot.”

A total of 15 frames detail the hotel’s former sites, buildings and publicans.

The original wooden structure was known as the Western Hotel and was on Wilson Street, renamed the Cricketers Arms Hotel in 1876, then was

briefly known as the Western Hotel again in 1879.

It was moved to its current site in 1879 and renamed the Victoria Hotel, making the most of opportunities offered by the newly-established railway line.

About 44 publicans have shaped the hotel since 1875.

“Knowing where we came from helps us to know where

we are going to go,” Mr Jubilo said.

“We’ve had a lot of people enjoying the photos and reminiscing about some of the people and events that have happened here.”

The hotel’s current brick structure was built in 1924, with some minor alterations taking place since.

Revell appointed Hindmarsh CEO

Hindmarsh Shire Council long-time employee Monica Revell is the council’s new chief executive.

At its monthly meeting last week, the council selected Mrs Revell for the top job following a competitive recruitment process, which included a large number of high-quality applications and multiple rounds of interviews.

Mrs Revell is well-known to the Hindmarsh community, having worked for the council since February 2011 in various roles, including as corporate and community services director for seven years and acting chief executive for the past five and a half months.

Mrs Revell has a strong understanding of the challenges faced by rural and regional communities, having lived at Dimboola for almost 25 years and growing up in Horsham.

“I am excited to accept this position and work closely with staff, the community and the council to deliver the vision, strategic objectives and advocacy priorities for Hindmarsh Shire,” she said.

Mayor Brett Ireland said the council was fortunate to have a person of Mrs Revell’s experience and knowledge of the council to take the shire into the future.

“Monica has an unbridled passion for her community, staff and local government and the services it provides,” he said.

“I know she will excel in key areas such as increased advocacy for financial and infrastructure projects, a desire to improve community satisfaction across all areas of local government and an open and approachable manner to everybody.

“I look forward to Monica bringing her own stamp to our council and implementing new and exciting things for our communities. The shire is in good hands.”

Mrs Revell officially started her new role on Monday.

•

For further information or to discuss your eligibility, please call Community Nursing 5352 9328

SHOWCASE: Victoria Hotel manager John Jubilo, left, and publican Mark Fitterer showcase historic photos in the hotel’s walkway. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Roads funding program plea

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Member for Mallee Anne Webster has called on the Federal Government to continue honouring the pledges of the previous administration after Northern Grampians Shire Council received nearly $1 million in funding this month.

The funding was allocated under the Liberal-Nationals Coalition government’s Bridges Renewal Program, BRP, and Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program, HVSPP.

The council last week received $400,000 through the BRP to upgrade the Greens Creek Road Bridge.

The bridge will be widened and strengthened, allowing safe passage for two vehicles in each direction, and safety barriers will be installed.

A further $400,000 from the BRP will go towards the Mt Dryden Road Bridge crossing the Mount William Creek in Lake Lonsdale.

The council is also set to receive $664,000 through the HVSPP to rehabilitate and widen sections of MinyipBanyena Road, a regional freight route.

With the current government in the process of combining the BRP and HVSPP into a new Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program, SLRIP, Dr Webster called for funding to continue in her electorate.

“The Labor government must ensure the time-management and guidelines under their new SLRIP will be suitable to fund Mallee councils securing

urgently needed and vital community road safety work,” she said.

“When the Labor government took office they shelved the highly-successful Building Better Regions program, leaving shires in limbo for more than two years waiting to receive replacement Growing Regions Program funding.

“Victorian Labor axed the Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund in last year’s State Budget, stranding councils up the federal grant application creek without a paddle.

“State co-funding is vital to getting major projects such as road upgrades over the federal funding line.

“Local roads are in such horrendous disrepair, Mallee residents cannot afford similar abysmal delays and abandonment.”

A Northern Grampians Shire Council spokesperson welcomed the federal funding, describing it as critical for the region.

“The freight industry is evolving and local government does not have the capacity to manage the impacts to its local road network,” the spokesperson said.

“These funding programs are vital for us to be able to effectively manage the increasing demands.

“Consistent funding streams like these, even in their changing environment, allow the council to strategically plan and prepare its programs to harness the opportunities when they occur and ultimately obtain better outcomes for the local road network and its users.”

Jacob Donnellon, of Donald, is the 2024 Wimmera Agricultural Societies Association junior show ambassador.

Representatives from nine Wimmera agriculture and pastoral societies gathered at Dimboola Recreation Reserve for a showcase of five junior show ambassadors.

Bailee White, of Nhill; Lucinda Smith, of Goroke; Jessica Cassar, of Kaniva; and Amber Nuske, of Warracknabeal were the other finalists.

Wimmera Agricultural Societies Association secretary Andrea Cross said the group-level gala dinner involved an afternoon judging process for the finalists before a presentation in the evening.

“It would have been hard for the judges to choose a winner as all of the ambassadors were committed and productive in their own shows,” she said.

SUCCESS: Wimmera Agricultural Societies Association, WASA, junior show ambassador Jacob Donnelley, of Donald, with WASA vice president Nicole Nunn who also awarded Jacob the Marie Hendy Trophy.

Jacob wins way to states

“The winner, Jacob, raised more than $20,000 in sponsorship for the Donald Show, which is an enormous amount and an outstanding contribution to a country show.

“He showed many other qualities complimentary of a volunteer as well.

“The judges were impressed by the quality of candidates.”

Mrs Cross said Jacob would represent the Wimmera at the Victorian Agricultural Show annual convention in June at Kaniva.

“To host the state conference in Kaniva is another local win,” she said.

Louise Hobbs, of Kaniva, is the Victorian Rural Show Ambassador and she was master of ceremonies for the event.

Mrs Cross said Miss Hobbs was currently preparing for national judging later this year.

She said last year’s runner-up state junior ambassador, Bart Turgoose of Horsham, was on the judging panel.

“To have previous winners on the judging panels gives credence to their win as we can continue to support them and showcase their skills at a judging level, and they have also been through the experience themselves,” she said.

Wimmera-based chef and teacher Cat Clarke was guest speaker at the event and showcased how she uses locally-grown produce in her catering and teaching.

The gala was also an opportunity to announce the winners of Wimmera crop competitions.

The northern Wimmera winner was Roger and Tracey Smith and the southern Wimmera winner was Cliff Allen, of Goroke.

community. PLUS, you get impressive member meal and drink discounts every visit. And best of all, proceeds from every order go back into Membership Renewals are now open for 2024

Yep, if you love Horsham, this is your club. The Club e way y ke . Horsham Sports & Community Club I mean, this place is stunning. And the membership is just $11, of which $5 goes to your local sporting or community club.

Uni changes ahead

Federation University’s plans to undertake a major transformation program will result in the loss of about 200 jobs across its four campuses.

With campuses in the Wimmera, Ballarat, Gippsland and Berwick, the university is the leading regional university in Victoria. It offers vocational and higher education courses in partnership with employers and industry groups in disciplines including nursing, allied health, education, IT, renewable energy, engineering and conservation science.

The university said the transformation program ‘Future Fed’ would bring ‘a streamlined and contemporary operating model for Federation that removes duplication and red tape and allows for strengthened investment in the student experience, technology, high-quality teaching and research, and an expansion of regional industry partnerships’.

‘Future Fed’ responds to the ongoing decline in student numbers across the higher education sector since the onset of COVID-19.

The number of international students attending the university fell by 49 percent between 2019 and 2023, resulting in a $79.1 million decline in the Fed uni’s revenue. The university is aiming for an annual cost savings of $20 million in 2024 to return to an operating surplus from 2026.

As a first step, the university announced last month it had invited staff to express interest in

EDITORIAL

By Lauren Henry

a voluntary redundancy process, concluding at the end of April.

If the uptake from the voluntary program is insufficient, the university will explore a nonvoluntary redundancy program.

While at this stage, the exact number of staff affected at each campus is unknown, the Future Fed program does cover all campuses, and it must be a nervous wait for the 30 staff at the Wimmera campus.

National Tertiary Education Union members at Federation University have vowed to fight management’s plan to cut the 200 positions, equivalent to about 12 percent of staff.

Union members criticised management’s lack of vision for the future of Fed Uni, and are planning mass rallies, an ongoing media campaign, and pursue legal measures to enforce its Enterprise Bargaining Agreement.

The Australian Universities Accord Final Report, launched in February, recommends partnerships with industry to fill critical skills shortages as a key priority for regional universities.

That’s exactly what has been happening on the ground in the Wimmera – the university’s introduction for students to undertake part of a Bachelor of Education

in Horsham is an example of how it is helping address the region’s teacher shortage.

It will be a vital piece of the jigsaw to fill critical employment shortages in the Wimmera.

Wimmera campus director

Christine Brown has worked hard in this space, but in a further blow, she will depart her role later this month.

While Fed Uni say Ms Brown’s departure is not related to the Future Fed program, the role of Wimmera campus director will be abolished, in line with changes made last year at other campuses.

It is imperative to have leadership at a local level, as each region had different complexities, and we hope that Fed Uni continues to work closely with local industry experts to meet the needs of the Wimmera.

Like all universities, Fed Uni has been hit hard by the downturn in international students during COVID, and changes to international student visa arrangements continue to exacerbate the issue.

Fed Uni says it is working with the Federal Government to explore appropriate models for attracting international students –and we implore the government to address the issue urgently.

International students in particular sectors where there are employment shortages could be the key to finding solutions, particularly in regional areas. If they move to a regional town to study and work, they might just make it their long-term home.

Heart Inspired Healing

Dear Ararat Community

After six months in my popup shop delivering Reiki and other wellness services to people and animals, I want to let you know that the shop is closing down, and I will be moving to another Ararat location one day per week, (details available soon).

I have loved meeting and working with you and hope that you continue to support Heart Centred Reiki at our new location.

Services will also continue to be available from my Black Range Studio, less than 20 minutes from Ararat.

For the remainder of April one hour Reiki sessions are available for $60 and your first one hour Reiki session at Black Range will be $50, (at any time).

Thank you for your kindness and support!

Follow Heart Centred Reiki Facebook page to stay up to date on our news.

To find out more contact: Noelene on 0408218954 or reiki@heartcentredreiki.com.au

www.heartcentredreiki.com.au

Scholarship for Kaniva student

Kaniva College student Rebecca Hobbs has been awarded a Harding Miller Education Foundation academic scholarship.

Presented to students in year nine, the four-year scholarship is valued at more than $20,000 and includes a laptop, high-speed internet, remote IT support, and online face-to-face tutoring.

Since its 2015 launch, Harding Miller has supported more than 1200 recipients in 350 public Australian secondary schools.

“I’m so grateful to have received this scholarship. This provides me with opportunities I would not otherwise have been able to access,” Rebecca said.

The foundation provides high-achieving young Australian women experiencing hardship with tools, resources and support to help them reach their full potential and build pathways to tertiary education and fulfilling careers.

“I have a passion for math, and my parents are unable to assist me with this and other subjects. Part of the Harding Miller program is tutoring, which I believe will help me overcome this challenge,” Rebecca said.

“I believe the Harding Miller Scholarship will help accelerate my learning.”

Scholarships are provided to female students who show high academic potential and are experiencing low socio-economic circumstances.

Harding Miller Education Foundation chief operations officer Caroline Hill said the foundation was proud to provide support to help promising young women reach their full potential.

“We are so pleased to announce Rebecca as one of the recipients,” Ms Hill said.

“Our scholarships offer more than just a financial boost. Our scholars are also paired with a volunteer coach who provides them with mentorship throughout the year.

“This support can often be the difference between continuing education or dropping out for an uncertain future.”

More than 600 applications were reviewed by 50 judges in this year’s round. Applications for scholarships for 2025 will open from July 15 to September 18, 2024. More information is available via www.hardingmillere ducationfoundation.org.au.

Your local retirement specialists

Approaching retirement can bring forth various emotions – excitement, relief, and concern. Questions like when to retire, financial readiness, accessing super, income sources, and government assistance may arise.

Our expertise focuses on advising those aged 55 and above, addressing your queries to provide peace of mind.

From left, Harding Miller executive director Cara Varian and Member for Lowan Emma Kealy present Kaniva P–12 College student Rebecca Hobbs with a $20,000 scholarship.

Put your foot down for Breast & Ovarian Cancer Research

On Sunday, May 12th at the Horsham Soundshell join us for a 5km walk or run to support those diagnosed with breast and ovarian cancer.

Schedule:

On the day registrations - 8am

Formalities commence - 8:45 am

Walk / run begins - 9am

Event concludes - 10:30 am

Also on the day:

BBQ Breakfast

Facepainting

Coffee Van Raffles & Spot Prizes

*Cash only for raffles and other entertainment

We will also be announcing the Winner of the Workplace Warriors Shield

Online registrations until Friday 10th of May

All online registrations go in the draw to win a prize thanks to Mackays Family Jewellers!

Dogs are allowed at this event, must be kept on lead. Parking available along Hocking Street and Firebrace Street.

www.mothersdayclassic.com.au/vic-horsham

Legacy – ‘I did

BY SARAH MATTHEWS

Mavis Kirsopp grew up during a time when women were expected to be nurturing mothers, good housekeepers and supportive partners.

She excelled at all three, however refused to let others – or herself – limit her potential. Mavis lived by the credo, ‘I did it my way’, and she certainly did.

Mavis’s long list of community service achievements includes working with organisations such as Red Cross and the Australian Birthright Movement. She was a Justice of the Peace, a returning officer for the electoral commission, ran for a seat on Horsham council and became the region’s first civil marriage celebrant in 1979.

Her long-lasting impact on the region was celebrated at St Andrew’s Uniting Church on March 27. She died in Horsham on March 13, aged 89.

Mavis Joy Beanland was born in Footscray, Melbourne, on March 23, 1934, the first daughter of Allen George Beanland and Eva Elizabeth Dellar.

Her father was a plumber-gasfitter and the family moved around often due to his employment. Mavis’s sister Jean was born in Ararat and eventually, the family settled at Warracknabeal.

Mavis’s daughter Mandy Kirsopp said her mother lived in a time ‘many of us can barely imagine’.

“She used slate boards and slate pencils instead of paper and pens, candles and gas for lighting, wood or gas for heating and cooking,” she said.

“In those years, a lot of time was spent on manual labour, but families learnt to live simply, to make do, to recycle, to share.

“Communities were strong. Mum’s early years were formative and became values that she lived by and demonstrated every day of her life.”

relationship with her husband, highly regarded former Horsham mayor and community champion Bob Kirsopp.

The pair met in February, 1954, at a ‘jam session’ at the Kirsopp shop in Natimuk, after Mavis spent the day at Natimuk Lake with a group of friends from Warracknabeal, including Bob’s brother, Ted.

“In mum’s words, ‘When we were ready to go home, Bob walked me to Ted’s car and told me, ‘I’m going to marry you one day’,” Mandy said.

“And mum’s thoughts were, ‘In your dreams’.”

Bob was right. That day was the beginning of a love affair that lasted nearly 69 years, until Bob died in 2023.

Mavis and Bob married in November 1955, celebrating their 67th wedding anniversary in 2022.

“They were the love of each other’s life and both separately told me so in the weeks before each other died,” Mandy said.

After living on farms at Glen Isla and the base of Mt Arapiles – where they welcomed Mandy and her brother Glenn – the Kirsopps moved to their forever family home in Federation Avenue, Horsham, in 1960.

“I have powerful memories of a simple life in those early years – of love, routine, playing inside and outside the house and of feeling safe with my brother and my parents,” Mandy said.

“We were well-loved. Family mattered.”

Mandy said when Glenn died in 2008, it was ‘the single greatest cause of pain and grief throughout mum and dad’s life together’.

“And what did they do? They supported each other and got on with things, faced life, smiled at people and extended their love to everyone around them – and importantly, accepted the love and care shown by others,” she said.

One cannot reflect on the life of Mavis Kirsopp without highlighting the importance of her

While delivering her mother’s eulogy, Mandy said she was reminded that, as individuals and as a community, ‘we are strong when we are part of something bigger than ourselves’.

it my way’

Mavis spent 25 years volunteering for Birthright, founded in 1964 to provide support for single-parent families through friendship and advice.

“This was a community-based volunteer group that focused on helping the children of families where there might have been domestic violence, single parenting or financial stress,” Mandy said.

“Mum worked with women and men to help diffuse conflict, helped find short-term accommodation for children, helped obtain money to provide food vouchers, seasonal pool passes and pay for school expenses and excursions.”

Many of the women Mavis met through Birthright wanted to remarry but were unable to do so under church law.

Recognising the need for a civil celebrant in the region, Mavis approached several high-profile people to suggest they become one.

When they told her Horsham was far too conservative to accept a civil celebrant, Bob encouraged his wife to follow her dreams.

After lobbying then Attorney-General Peter Durack for months, Mavis became the region’s first civil marriage celebrant in 1979.

She officiated weddings, and later naming days and funerals, for 35 years.

“Mum was humbled by the responsibility and privilege of being welcomed into people’s lives as a celebrant,” Mandy said.

“She understood the importance of life-changing events where commitments are made, the miracle of birth

“Mum was highly respected and greatly loved by many people who not only invited her into their lives for single events, but who returned to mum at other times in their lives”

– Mandy Kirsopp

celebrated and the sadness of saying goodbye.

“Mum was highly respected and greatly loved by many people who not only invited her into their lives for single events, but who returned to mum at other times in their lives.”

In 1985, Mavis was appointed a state returning officer for federal, state and local government elections, a position she maintained until the late 1990s.

“It was great fun for mum,” she said.

“She loved the responsibility, the pressure, the need for accuracy and integrity.

“Her preparation and attention to detail meant that results were collated accurately and processed efficiently.”

Mandy said her mother’s attention to detail also enabled her to run a family home on a tight budget.

“It made it possible for mum and dad to start and grow a family business – Horsham Lawn Mower Centre – and for dad to pursue a range of hobbies and business pursuits, such as vintage cars, goats, a worm farm and so on,” she said.

Along with a decade as an electoral officer, Mavis was a Justice of the

Peace for more than 20 years, from 1998.

A member of Red Cross since 1962, she also spent 20 years recruiting, training and rostering volunteers to run a weekly Blood Bank service. She received a long-service medal in 1982 and also volunteered for Meals on Wheels for many years.

“In 2001, mum received a Victorian

Lochiel Street site

30 tonne log splitter, 3 bbq’s, car fridges, varying sized Davey & Orange water pumps, Vanguard 6HP engine, Vanguard v-twin 21HP engine, elec. power hoists, hydraulic post installer, o -road compressor, Talon hedge trimmers, Rockworth welders, battery operated lawnmowers, power operated wheelbarrow, Stilh shredders, diesel firefighting pump, 15HP petrol f/fight pumps, Honda GX200 motor, concrete mixers (2 sizes), petrol generator SC2500, toilet pans & cisterns, qty bagged cement, lawnmower trailers, zero-turn 42” cut ride-on Greenworks mower, qty dog food, complete collection mechanical workshop tools & equipment, qty paint & paint tinting machine, qty plumbing supply, qty mower blades & accessories, qty bird aviary wire, numerous new hardware items.

26 Wimmera Street site

Vintage MF toy tractor, qty insulation, elec. car hoist (4000kg), mower trailer transport, fuel tank on trailer.

Mattress manufacture plant, Crown carpet forklift, vanity units, bench press, collectables, bag truck, security safe, shop fittings, furniture, 1928 vintage 6x4 trailer, valve servicing machine, mattress edge closing machine, antique iron roller, forklift extensions, pallet carpet tiles, tyre remover machine.

ON-SITE: SATURDAY, APRIL 20, 2024 @ 9.30am

Terms: Cash/cards on day of sale. 10% buyer premium applies.

government certificate of appreciation for volunteer service to the community,” Mandy said.

“Mum did as much as dad for our community and made it possible for him to do the things he did.

“The key difference between mum and dad was that mum was generally behind the scenes, making sure budgets balanced and planning was

done, while dad was more visible in his actions.

“I am aware of the privileges I had because of my parents, their planning and sacrifices, and of my responsibilities to their legacy and importantly to mum’s friends and our community.

“I am so very proud to be my mother’s daughter. What a person she was and what a good life she lived.”

PRECIOUS MEMORIES: Bob and Mavis Kirsopp celebrated their 67th wedding anniversary in 2022. They are pictured in Bob’s iconic mini-moke he had owned since 1976.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Rotary honours leaders

Apassing discussion with an old school friend led to a recent international night for more than 70 guests at Rotary Club of Horsham East.

Two years ago, Horsham resident Denise Dolby and school friend Margurite Goulding casually mentioned to Rotarian Steve Sosthiem the volunteering work Ms Goulding was undertaking in Cambodia with Eye Care Foundation.

Rotary Club of Horsham East president Wendy Lang said the discussion prompted the club to send a box of used spectacles to Cambodia, where they could be recycled and reused.

“A couple of years later the club has now sent more than 700 pairs of spectacles and through online technology, was able to meet recipients of this program,” she said.

Ms Goulding left Horsham when she was 19 to join the Royal Australian Navy and has spent the past 20 years volunteering. Her charity work through Australian Volunteers saw her travel to Indonesia, Bangladesh, Nepal, Vanuatu, Cambodia and the Philippines, as well as outback Australia.

Ms Goulding spoke to the club about her experiences, including a career highlight of working with the indigenous people of the Chittagong Hill Tracts in Bangladesh. She said it showed her how much she could achieve in early education while working with minimal resources.

Ms Goulding helped to establish a worldwide language-learning model during what she described as a profound period of professional and cultural development.

“My life is my hobby and the ability to continue making a difference is what inspires me to carry on,” she said.

Ms Goulding said she hoped to continue her charity work in Cambodia and explore opportunities for disability inclusion. She advised attendees of the talk to ‘follow your dreams’ and always ‘be the expat, not the expert’.

Rotary Club of Horsham East presented Ms Goulding with a

an outstanding contribution.

Also presented with Paul Harris Fellows were sisters Mary and Teresa Marchesini, who, along with supporting Eye Care Foundation, have raised about $300,000 for the Cancer Council across more than two decades, as well as donating $40,000 to the Horsham district community in the past 12 months, benefitting groups such as Christian Emergency Food Centre, Horsham West and Haven Primary School, Wimmera Hos-

pice Care Auxiliary and Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal.

Mary said the sisters were not motivated by accolades, but simply enjoyed making a difference in their community.

The three recipients of the Paul Harris awards join only eight other Horsham community members to have received such recognition since 1980.

Ms Lang said people interested in donating unwanted spectacles to the Eye Care Foundation could call Mr Sosthiem on 0448 814 006 or deliver them to Horsham Plaza centre management.

Raising awareness

Horsham sisters Mary and Teresa Marchesini are preparing to cook up a storm in memory of their friend

Susan Schilling next month as they attempt to raise $10,000 for the Royal Flying Doctor Service and heart disease support.

Ms Schilling, who died from a heart attack in November 2021, had told Mary and Teresa that Horsham should have a Mother’s Day event, inspiring the sisters to organise the fundraiser for May 12.

The afternoon tea at Horsham Town Hall will celebrate what would have been Ms Schilling’s 60th birthday, while raising money for charity.

The sisters said they were determined to do their best in memory of their friend.

“Susan lived life to the full. Hardworking for her family, generous and intelligent, she could turn her hand at almost anything,” they said.

“But most of all she was an adored mother and grandmother.

“This afternoon tea will remember Susan and remember mums or people who have taken on that role for others, while encouraging everyone to take time for themselves around health checks.

“Susan put everyone before herself and found herself in a situation where her heart disease was fatal.”

Mary and Teresa encouraged people to bring their mothers to the fundraiser.

They said if people’s mothers were unable to attend for any reason, guests were welcome to bring a photo of their mothers instead.

The sisters, who sell cakes, jams, sauces and salad dressings at local markets, will cater for the event, along with a team of volunteers.

Guest speaker is Royal Flying Doctor Service education program manager, captain Tom Ryan, who tours schools and community events across Victoria.

Capt Ryan will also provide musical entertainment as part of the group Shrewd Brass – the Flying 4, which has performed in Australia and internationally for more than 30 years.

Tickets are $50 and are now available at Horsham Plaza. People can reserve tickets by calling Horsham Plaza management on 5382 0912, or calling Robyn Lardner on 0400 769 900.

The event will be from 1.30pm to 4.30pm on Sunday, May 12 at Horsham Town Hall. Entry includes afternoon tea and complimentary refreshments on arrival.

Paul Harris Fellow – one of the highest forms of recognition a Rotary club can bestow on a Rotarian or a member of the community who has made

MAKING A DIFFERENCE: Above, sisters Teresa, left, and Mary Marchesini were presented Paul Harris Fellows, and right, Marguerite Goulding and Rotary Club of Horsham East president Wendy Lang hold some of the spectacles collected and sent to Cambodia.

Dimboola Soldiers Memorial Higher Elementary School DHES (1924 to 1945)

Dimboola Memorial High School DMHS (1946 to 1986)

Dimboola Memorial Secondary College DMSC (1987 to 2024) Saturday, May 25, 2024

Bookings for the school tours and afternoon tea and the official dinner are available via the QR code, the link below or by the school office on 5389 1460

https://buytickets.at/dimboolamemorialsecondarycollege/1079075

Blue tree offers support

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Across-country trip wandering was the beginning of bringing a conversation-starter to Nhill, when Wayne and Julie Richards noticed blue trees dotted through the landscape on the way to Western Australia.

On further investigation, they found the website for the Blue Tree Project, which offers mentalhealth support through a variety of agencies including Beyond Blue, headspace and Kids’ Helpline.

“Our country communities have struggled with some tragic losses over the past few years,” Mr Richards said.

“We hope that seeing a blue tree at Salisbury, near Nhill, will remind people there is always hope and support.”

Mr Richards said the Blue Tree Project website was a great resource for people in need of support.

“The tree is also a visual reminder for us to try to keep in caring contact with friends and family who we think might be struggling,” he said.

“Every town has its own story of suicide and loss.

“We’ve been back in Nhill since 2016 and there have been about half a dozen deaths, all to do with mental health.”

The tree, between Kiata and Nhill on the Western Highway, is on Chris and Janine Dahlenburg’s property and was painted following discussion with Michael Croot, Nhill Shed Happens, and donations from Home Hardware and Mulhallens in Nhill.

“It would be great if some of our sporting and service clubs added more blue trees out there and registered them on the website,” Mr Richards said.

There is also a blue tree near Warracknabeal, which is registered on the website.

“If we can keep putting the message out there, it might get through and help people,” Mr Richards said.

There were 801 deaths by suicide recorded in Victoria last year, a 5.2 percent increase on 2022.

People can seek professional support from 14 different mental health services via the Blue Tree Project website, www.bluetreeproject.com.au.

HELPING HANDS: Nhill’s Wayne Richards, left, and Kiata’s Roger Brown are pictured at the blue tree at Salisbury, between Nhill and Kiata. Blue trees can be spotted across the Australian landscape, promoting mental health and wellbeing as the Blue Tree Project.

Bird control effort at Nhill reserve

Hindmarsh Shire Council officers will re-start a control program aimed at preventing large numbers of starlings from roosting in the Goldsworthy Park area at Nhill.

Council infrastructure services director Ram Upadhyaya said the program aimed to protect council assets such as the barbecue, seating areas and children’s playground from bird excrement.

“The starlings have been making a mess in Goldsworthy Park again and it’s important that we do something as a follow-up from previous programs to reduce the public health risk,” he said.

Mr Upadhyaya said starting this week, Nhill business owners, residents and householders might experience three or four loud bursts of fire from gas guns at Goldsworthy Park reserve and surrounding areas.

The shots will usually occur in the morning between the hours of 7am and 8am and in the evening between 7pm and 8pm.

Council officers apologised for the inconvenience and advised residents with animals that might be affected by the noise level of the gas guns, to securely confine them during those hours.

For more information people can contact a council local laws officer by calling 5391 4444 or emailing locallaws@ hindmarsh.vic.gov.au.

Mind Australia seminar

Mind Australia is offering a seminar to the Horsham community ahead of its Haven Horsham 14-home development, which will open in Baillie Street in coming months.

Haven Horsham will offer 24-hour support and housing to people who have significant mental ill-health, where they can live independently while working towards individual NDIS goals. The Haven Foundation and Mind Australia collaborate to work with families, friends and carers to ensure residents learn life skills, find connections with others, gain confidence and build a healthy lifestyle.

Haven Horsham’s housing team is hosting the seminar today from 4.30pm to 6.30pm to answer questions and provide information about the project.

For more information or to register interest people can call Mind Connect on 1300 286 463 or email mindconnect@ mindaustralia.org.au.

OPEN DAY

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

1.45pm - 7pm

Come see our school in action!

Discover our college and all it has to offer, including speciality academic and sporting programs; a wide range of extra-curricular activities; and a safe and dynamic learning environment that encourages collaborative, creative, critical and curious thinkers.

Quarterly update

The first quarter of 2024 saw the Federal Government roll-out considerable changes to the stage three tax cuts, inflation continuing to slow but remaining stubbornly high across some areas, surging stock market highs and continuing pressures in the property sector.

Stage three tax cuts

In January, the Labor government unveiled changes to the proposed stage three tax cuts, aimed at providing bigger tax cuts to middle Australia.

The new changes, which passed the Senate to become law in February, retain the tax bracket that would have been scrapped under the original proposal, and adjust tax rates to benefit both lower and higher-income earners.

The changes will take effect from July 1 and are summarised as follows:

FINANCE focus

with Robert Goudie CFP GradDipFP Consortium Private Wealth

While economic growth, both locally and globally, is forecast to slow, there is optimism in the market as inflation has started easing and is likely to continue falling, and central banks across the US, Canada and Europe are expected to start cutting rates in the coming months.

Recession still looms as a risk, but it appears the economy might be moving toward a soft landing.

Market continues to tighten

The national vacancy rate fell to a new low of 0.7 percent in February, highlighting the ongoing supply and demands challenges in rental properties across Australia, as a result of a construction sector under strain, rapid population growth from migration, and rising property prices.

Inflation continues to ease

Inflation continues on a downward trend, with the Reserve Bank of Australia, RBA, expecting it to return to the target range of two to three percent in 2025, and reach the midpoint in 2026.

Service price inflation remains high despite goods price inflation decreasing, supported by continued excess demand and strong domestic cost pressures.

The RBA expects the consumer price index, CPI, to come in at 3.3 percent by June, compared with 3.9 percent forecast three months ago.

As a result, the board decided to leave the cash rate unchanged at 4.35 percent at the first official meeting for the year.

Share market highs

Global share markets have been breaking records this quarter, with the ASX200, S&P500, Eurozone and Japanese markets reaching record highs, helped by US inflation data coming in as expected, leaving the Fed on track to cut rates from mid-year.

SCHEDULE: 1.45pm to 3.30pm: Guided tours every half-hour in the Junior, Middle and Senior schools

4pm to 6pm: Interactive activities and displays; self-guided tour of the Middle School; guided tours in the Junior and Senior schools; barista-made coffee

5.30pm: Free barbecue

6pm to 7pm: Year 7 2025 information evening

WE LOOK FORWARD TO

While the government has put stricter measures on international students to try to ease demand pressures, supply continues to be an issue, with building approvals falling by one percent in January, though multi-unit dwelling approvals increased by 19.5 percent in the same period.

Property prices continued to rise despite higher interest rates, inflation and cost of living concerns.

The Home Value Index was up 0.6 percent nationally in February, and showed an increase in all capital cities except Hobart.

Labour market cooling

Labour market conditions cooled over the December quarter 2023, with an ongoing shift away from full-time employment and growth in parttime jobs, and a decrease in recruitment activity.

These trends are consistent with Treasury forecasts that growth will continue to ease and the unemployment rate will increase from 3.9 percent in January to 4.2 percent by June, and 4.3 percent by the end of the year.

Despite clear softening, labour market conditions remain tight, and many employers are experiencing challenges finding suitable workers to fill positions, while some shortage pressures remain evident.

COLLABORATIVE SPIRIT: From left, Ashleigh Plumridge, Chantelle Infanti, Poppy O’Shea, Matthew Maclarn, Harvinda Kaur, Dylan Wolff, Nicolette De Freitas, Zoe Field and Jack Middleton share anecdotes at a Horsham Alliance gathering.

Alliance project supporting teachers

Nine pre-service teachers are completing their university placements in Wimmera schools under the Horsham Alliance Project.

Working with Deakin, Federation and Australian Catholic universities, 13 regional schools are participating in the targeted approach to support pre-service teachers and attract them to the Wimmera.

Horsham Alliance site director Cathy van Dyk said the students gathered for an evening of networking, ‘sharing anecdotes and insights gleaned from their classroom experiences’.

“The gathering not only signifies the col-

laborative spirit within Horsham’s educational landscape, but also highlights the dedication and passion of these future educators in honing their craft,” she said.

“As they navigate the challenges and triumphs of teaching practice, their presence enriches the educational fabric of Horsham, promising a brighter future for the students they will inspire and nurture.

“We hope the Horsham Alliance will continue to host a growing number of pre-service teachers to encourage them to return, once qualified, to fill teacher shortages in the Wimmera.”

IMPROVED RESPONSE: From left, clinical nurse educator Shevahn Healy, ANUM perioperative services Michelle Dunn, Stawell Hospital Auxiliary president Pam Byron, Freemasons Marnoo Lodge worshipful master Glyn Treadwell and Stawell Hospital Auxiliary secretary Merrilyne Middleton show off a new airway management trainer, donated by Freemasons Foundation Victoria.

Donation to help survival chances

Grampians Health Stawell’s medical and nursing teams will receive training in airway management thanks to a donation from Freemasons Foundation Victoria, FFV. Freemasons Marnoo Lodge and FFV donated an airway trainer via the Stawell Hospital Auxiliary, enabling the education team to more efficiently train nursing and medical team members on effective airway management.

Clinical nurse educator Shevahn Healy said the airway trainer would allow for regular staff training on emergency airway management situations.

“This will improve the response to airway obstruction for community members presenting at our urgent care centre or for patients receiving treatment in theatre,” she said.

“This also means an expected increase in

survival chance for patients in cardiac arrest or having breathing difficulties.”

The Deluxe Difficult Airway Trainer features a manually inflatable tongue to simulate an obstructed airway.

The device is anatomically correct internally, helping improve the airway-management skills of team members using manual manoeuvres and mechanical devices.

Marnoo Lodge worshipful master Glyn Treadwell said Freemasons regularly donated to the Stawell community.

“It has been an honour to donate to the hospital again,” he said.

“Anyone interested in joining the Freemasons, who meet at the Stawell Masonic Centre, can contact Freemasons Marnoo Lodge secretary John Hart on 0427 581 370.

30 years of Chocolate Starfish

Chocolate Starfish will bring its Best of Everything tour to Horsham on September 14.

The tour, starting on June 21, will take in five states across Australia and celebrate the best of everything Chocolate Starfish – the albums, the songs and the exhilarating performances. Featuring hits off its self-titled debut album and favourites from Box, Spider, Primitive and The Beautiful Addiction along with selections from its Classic Album Series – Bat Out of Hell, INXS Kick and Adam Thompson’s Bohemian Rhapsody Concert – the tour promises ‘everything and more’.

“Thirty years in we know where our fans are, and the spaces we love to work. We can’t wait to hit the road,” Chocolate Starfish front man Adam Thompson said.

“So many iconic Aussie bands were formed in the ’80s and ’90s and were an inspiration to us. There’s not a huge list of them still performing regularly like we are, and with most of their long-term members. We’re great mates and all

BEST OF EVERYTHING: Chocolate Starfish will perform its greatest hits in Horsham Town Hall in September.

love performing live – anyone who has been to a Starfish show can feel that.”

Tickets are available online at www.horshamtownhall.com.au/hthevent/the-best-of-every thing-30-years-of-chocolate-starfish-2024australian-tour.

Nhill historical building undergoes repairs

The Nhill and District Historical Society building will be closed from the second week of May to allow contractors to undertake repair works.

Located at 104-106 MacPherson Street, Nhill, the building needs its roof, guttering and downpipes replaced as well as some repair works on the verandah. The project will also include a new coat of paint. Hindmarsh Shire Council has engaged a plumber and a builder to complete the project. Works are expected to be finished by the end of June, subject to weather conditions. There will be no access to staff, volunteers or members of the public from mid-May to the end of June to ensure site safety is maintained during construction.

FRIDAY April 12 Workshops

• PHYSICAL THEATRE – youth focussed 10-18 years

• FILM SKILLS – Tik Toks and Reels 12 years +

• SOUND RECORDING – Sound Hunt 10 years +

• ADVANCED PHYSICAL THEATRE – 14 years to adult

SATURDAY April 13

Workshops throughout the day and evening concert

• CELTIC LEVER HARP – Beginner

• UKULELE – Beginner and Next Steps

• SINGING – 2 Workshop sessions available

• DANCE – South Americanflavour

The Murra Warra Wind Farm Sustainable Community Grant Fund applications are now open, providing financial support for social and environmental sustainability initiatives within Horsham Rural City, Hindmarsh & Yarriambiack Shire Councils’ communities. Applications Close: 15th May

• CONCERT of workshop leaders and participants

SUNDAY April 14

ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION

Facilitated by Regional Arts Victoria

Tickets and More Info

Presented by with support from

So much more than sport

In the heart of country life, as the football and netball season unfolds once again, a familiar rhythm returns: the early morning chill, the Thursday night sausage in bread with splashes of tomato sauce, the forgotten canteen slices, and the Sunday rush to squeeze in all washing before the demands of the school and work week swoop back in.

Yet, amid this flurry of activity, it’s vital to recognise that sports aren’t merely about competition and recreation; they serve as crucial pillars in shaping the lives of our children.

Within the confines of sporting communities, children learn invaluable lessons that extend far beyond the playing oval or court.

They learn the art of collaboration, the significance of teamwork and the importance of volunteerism – skills that will accompany them into adulthood.

But, perhaps most importantly, they learn about kindness, empathy, and inclusivity.

A recent activity run by By Five with primary schools across the Wimmerasouthern Mallee yielded poignant responses regarding acts of kindness.

Many of these heart-warming anecdotes revolved around their experiences within their sporting clubs.

For children, a simple high-five from a senior player, a friendly greeting from a familiar face, or the gesture of inclusion from a fellow team-mate had profound significance.

COMMENT

with Jo Martin By Five Executive of cer

The anecdotes underscore the profound impact that adults – whether coaches, volunteers or senior players – have on the lives of children within these sporting communities.

Their actions, however small, resonate deeply with the young participants, shaping their perceptions of kindness, belonging and friendship.

In this light, it becomes imperative for adults within these settings to lead by example, fostering environments that are not only conducive to athletic development but also nurturing of emotional wellbeing.

Every child, regardless of skill level or background, should feel welcomed, valued and supported within their sporting club.

Indeed, the goal should be to cultivate safe and inclusive spaces where every child can thrive, where acts of kindness are not merely fleeting gestures but enduring foundations upon which friendships are built and character is forged.

As the football and netball season kicks off once more, let us not only celebrate the thrill of competition but also reflect on the profound role that adults play in the lives of our children.

Let us strive to simply be the best place to raise a child.

NEW

COMMITTEE:

Stawell Gold Reef Ladies Probus has elected a new committee, with Delwyn Jenkins replacing Judith Burke as president. The group met for their annual meeting in March, where Northern Grampians Shire councillor Murray Emerson – in mayor Rob Haswell’s absence – presented badges to all incoming committee members. He also gave a presentation on the future plans of council.

Pictured are: back, from left, assistant treasurer Mavis Graham, reception Goog Rickard, publicity Kath McClintock, attendance Beryl Cox, guest speaker Merrilyne Middleton, carer Mavis Evans, newsletter Lyn MacKenzie; front, trips Lynette Healy, vice-president Jane Kibble, secretary Elizabeth Lindsay, president Delwyn Jenkins, immediate past president Judith Burke and assistant secretary Lorraine Row. Absent, treasurer Sharyn Neill. The outgoing president presented the incoming president with a sash and badge, and wished her well for the coming year.

National Trust to host ‘connections’ outings

The Wimmera Branch of the National Trust is celebrating the Heritage Festival ‘Connections’ theme with three community outings in Horsham, Natimuk and Longerenong in coming weeks.

The first of the events, a Laneways tour on April 20, will guide participants throughout the Horsham central business district.

The tour will start at the library car park in McLachlan Street at 1.30pm and end with afternoon tea at an historical home about 3pm.

NORTHWESTER & SOUTH WEST COAST

47 days

The tour costs $20 and payments must be received by April 17.

A Natimuk school sites bus tour is scheduled for Sunday, April 28, leaving Horsham library car park at 1pm to arrive back at 5pm. Cost is $45, with payment due by April 24.

Both tours require minimum numbers to proceed.

The Wimmera branch will celebrate its 10th birthday with morning and afternoon teas at Longerenong Homestead on Sunday, May 12. Buses will leave Horsham library

Monday 29th July $22,540

“See the itinerary for the many tour highlights”.

COOBER PEDY, AYERS ROCK, ALICE SPRINGS

9 days

Monday 29th July $5980

Highlights: Adelaide, Port Augusta, Central Australia, Coober Pedy, Umoona Opal Mine, Ayres Rock, Kings Canyon, Alice Springs, West MacDonnell Ranges, Standley Chasm, Alice Springs Reptile Centre, Alice Springs Desert Park, Royal Flying Doctor Service, Alice Springs School of the Air, Alice Springs Telegraph Station.

WEST COAST, KIMBERLEY & SOUTH WEST COAST

35 days

Saturday 10th August $16,680

“See the itinerary for the many tour highlights”.

23 days

Island, Paronella Park, Australian Sugar Museum, Green Island, Cairns, Barrier Reef, Daintree River Cruise, Kuranda Train and Sky Rail, Breakfast with the Birds, Port Douglas CAIRNS & THE GULF COUNTRY INC BIRDSVILLE

16 days Friday 7th June $8930

Highlights: Cairns, Green Island, Barrier Reef, Daintree River Cruise, Breakfast with the Birds, Port Douglas, Atherton Tableland, Georgetown, Undara Lava Tubes, Gulflander Train Ride, Normanton, Karumba, Gulf of Carpentaria Sunset Cruise, Mt Isa, Birdsville, Marree, Lake Eyre, Flinders Ranges, Burra, Renmark.

SPLENDID SINGAPORE

10 days Monday 1st July $7850

Highlights: Luxury Hotel Accommodation, Stunning Singapore, City Sights Tour, Botanic & Orchid Gardens, Singapore River Cruise, Fullerton Bay Hotel High Tea, The Singapore Zoo, Singapore Flyer, Marina Bay Sands Lookout, S.E.A Aquarium, Changi District, National Museum of Singapore, Gardens by the Bay, English Speaking Guides.

DARWIN VIA CENTRAL AUSTRALIA

15 days Monday 29th July $8950

Highlights: Central Australia, Coober Pedy, Ayers Rock, Kings Canyon, Alice Springs, West MacDonnell Ranges, Tennant Creek, Katherine Gorge Cruise, Kakadu, Yellow Waters Cruise, Darwin, Mindil Market, Litchfield National Park.

WEST COAST & THE KIMBERLEY

Saturday 10th August $12,460

Highlights: Darwin, Mindil Beach Market, Katherine, Kununurra, Ord River Cruise, El Questro Station, Zebedee Springs, Chamberlain Gorge Cruise, Wyndham, Halls Creek, Fitzroy Crossing, Derby, Boab Prison Tree, Broome, Willie Creek Pearl Farm, Cable Beach, Port Hedland, Tom Price, Exmouth, Coral Bay, Monkey Mia, Kalbarri, Perth.

12 days

DARWIN TO BROOME & THE KIMBERLEY

Saturday 10th August $7990

Highlights: Darwin, Mindil Beach Market, Katherine, Kununurra, Ord River Cruise, El Questro Station, Zebedee Springs, Chamberlain Gorge Cruise, Wyndham, Halls Creek, Fitzroy Crossing, Derby, Boab Prison Tree, Broome, Willie Creek Pearl Farm, Cable Beach.

BROOME TO PERTH INCLUDING TOM PRICE & NINGALOO REEF

14 days

Monday 19th August $8380

Highlights: Broome 3 nights, Cable Beach, Eighty Mile Beach, Port Hedland, Mt Tom Price Mine tour, Karijini National Park, Exmouth, Ningaloo Reef, Coral Bay, Shark Bay, Carnarvon, Monkey Mia Dolphins, Kalbarri Wildflowers, Perth 3 nights. PERTH AND SOUTH WEST COAST

15 days

Friday 30th August $7110

Highlights: Perth, Gloucester Tree, Margaret River Chocolate Factory, Cape Leeuwin & Lighthouse, Pemberton Timber Mill, Valley of the Giants, Albany, Whale Watching Cruise, Esperance, Kalgoorlie, Super Pit Tour, Great Australian Bight, Nullarbor, Port Augusta, Adelaide, Mannum.

car park at 9.30am and 1pm, returning at 12.30pm and 4pm respectively.

Tickets for the birthday celebration cost $75, which includes the bus, entertainment, guided tours and refreshments.

There will also be homestead produce for sale, a raffle and lucky chair prize. Payments are due by May 8.

People can call Helen Curkpatrick on 0413 382 567 or email national trustwimmera@gmail.com for more information or to book.

CANADA & ALASKA EXPLORER

25 days Wednesday 18th September $22,885

Highlights: 5 Star Rail Travel with Gold Leaf Service on the Rocky Mountaineer, Five Star Cruising in Staterooms with Private Balcony, Vancouver, Alaskan Inside Passage Cruise, Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay, Ketchikan, Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper, Rocky Mountains, Whistler.

CAPE YORK AND THURSDAY ISLAND

10 days Sunday 22nd September $6390

TASMANIA

10 days Tuesday 15th October $5440

Highlights: Spirit of Tasmania, Grindelwald, Launceston, Ross, Swansea Bark Mill, Hobart, Hobart Grand Chancellor Harbour Views accommodation, Wrest Point Casino, Huon Valley, Port Arthur, Cascade Brewery, “The Wall”, Queenstown, Gordon River Cruise, Stanley, Burnie, Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden, Devonport.

CANBERRA

6 days Sunday 27th October $2940

Highlights: Wodonga, Canberra City, Cockington Green, Australian War Memorial, Government House, Parliament House, National Arboretum, Embassy Drive, National Portrait Gallery, Lake Burley Griffin Cruise, High Court of Australia, Royal Australian Mint.

NEW ZEALAND DISCOVERY

17 days Wednesday 6th November $9990

Highlights: Kauri Museum, Dolphin/Hole in the Rock Cruise, Skyline Rotorua Gondola & Luge Ride, Agrodome, Thermal Mud Pools & Geysers, Te Puia traditional Maori Hangi and Concert, Cruise on the Interislander Ferry, TranzAlpine Rail Journey, Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw, Lakes District Museum, Milford Sound Cruise & Lunch, Larnach Castle, City Sights tour of Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch & Dunedin.

SAPPHIRE COAST

9 days Monday 11th November $4490

Highlights: Lakes Entrance, Gippsland Lakes Cruise, Buchan, Mallacoota, Merimbula, Merimbula Aquarium, Eden, Eden Killer Whale Museum, Cat Balou Cruise on Twofold Bay, Bega Cheese Factory, Mogo Town, Mogo Zoo, Eurobodalla Botanic Garden, Batemans Bay, Clyde River Cruise, Canberra City Tour, Government House, Wodonga.

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

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

10 years ago: April 9, 2014

Cinema returned to Nhill after a $75,000 grant was received to upgrade its sound and projection equipment, with council contributing a further $60,000. The cinema closed in December 2013 when 35mm film reels ceased production, but would reopen in July 2014 with the capability of showing new-release films on digital equipment with surround sound.

Five years ago: April 10, 2019

The Stawell Underground Physics Laboratory secured $5m in funding to investigate the existence of dark matter. The project was set to create jobs in construction and operation at the facility, one kilometre underground in a disused goldmine. It was the first national research facility in physical sciences in a regional area of Australia since 1988 and the only one of its kind in the southern hemisphere.

One year ago: April 12, 2023

Warracknabeal’s secondary college, primary school and special development schools relocated to a new, shared campus in Werrigar Street, becoming the Warracknabeal Education Precinct. Principal Casey Phelan was looking forward to the opportunity to share resources and see students’ learning journeys through primary and secondary schooling.

1. How many kilometres long is the Wimmera-Mallee Pipeline?

2. What critical political milestone occurred in Australia on December 16, 1903?

3. Teams from which three towns formed the first Wimmera Football Association in 1902?

4. Taylor Swift’s first song to chart on the Billboard Hot 100 was named after which country singer and actor?

5. Does a shrew have feathers, fur or fins?

6. Horsham’s Holy Trinity Lutheran College, Dimboola’s St Peter’s Lutheran School and Nhill Lutheran School will merge in 2025 to become what?

7. Potato farmer Cliff Young unexpectedly won the inaugural Sydney to Melbourne Ultramarathon at 61 years of age. A pair of his running shoes are on show at which Victorian café?

8. The approaching opening of duck season poses a risk for ducks from hunters, but they are also vulnerable to what paralytic disease caused by bacteria that produces toxins, one which is now used in cosmetic and medical procedures?

9. How much money did Horsham raise for the Good Friday Appeal this year?

10. Who made history in 2014, becoming the first female representative for Lowan? Answers: 1. 9000 kilometres. It replaced 17,800 kilometres of open channels. 2. Women voted in a Federal election for the first time. 3. Ararat, Horsham and Stawell. 4. Tim McGraw. 5. Fur. 6. Wimmera Lutheran College. 7. The Windmill Café, Kaniva. 8. -Botu

A very progressive period – for many the chance for big gains financially should present themselves. Support from people who matter. Contacts now should bring a surprise. TAURUS: (April 21-May 20) Lucky Colour: Emerald

Energy levels should increase and for many some major changes. Long distance travel is indicated and plans can be changed or made with very little warning. A friend shows their value.

GEMINI: (May 21-June 21)

Lucky Colour: Pale Blue

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 4-1-7-4

Lotto Numbers: 3-9-21-27-31-33

This period should be great for romance one way or another. However, make sure you don’t misunderstand information you receive and that everything is signed on the dotted line.

CANCER: (June 22-July 22)

Lucky Colour: Cream

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 9-1-7-3

Lotto Numbers: 2-14-28-34-35-44

Travel may play some part in your love life and although career prospects are on a financial upswing, working conditions may not be harmonious and it could be wiser to placate people than provoke them.

LEO: (July 23-August 22)

Lucky Colour: Purple

Lucky Day: Sunday

Racing Numbers: 6-2-4-1

Lotto Numbers: 15-25-30-37-42-43

Love life could be going from one extreme to another – make an extra effort to keep the peace. Favourable conditions are indicated in financial affairs although it is wisest to stay within the familiar.

VIRGO: (August 23-September 23)

Lucky Colour: Lilac

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 5-7-3-1

Lotto Numbers: 2-9-17-27-28-35

Your domestic affairs could conflict with your love life perhaps due to a too critical attitude. Could be a good time to ask for favours from those in a position to further your ambitions.

LIBRA: (September 24-October 23)

Lucky Colour: White

Lucky Day: Saturday

Racing Numbers: 5-1-7-5

Lotto Numbers: 20-29-31-38-40-41

Some people may be inundated with invitations for romantic interludes. A very social period coming up for most and better news on the financial front is indicated. New paths will open up for further ambitions.

SCORPIO: (October 24-November 22)

Lucky Colour: Dark Green

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 1-8-4-7

Lotto Numbers:23-31-34-40-44-45

Be prepared to compromise on all levels and don’t take anything for granted unless it’s signed on the dotted line. Plenty of opportunities in a career sense and a few surprises.

SAGITTARIUS: (November 23-December 20)

Lucky Colour: Royal Blue

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 3-8-1-7

Lotto Numbers: 10-22-24-36-41-42

Not wise to let career or money interfere in your love life. Happier trends will come about by more involvement with family and domestic affairs and let the rest of the world look after itself.

CAPRICORN: (December 21-January 19)

Lucky Colour: Yellow

Lucky Day: Thursday

Racing Numbers: 6-1-4-8

Lotto Numbers: 5-7-12-27-31-35

Career advancement and financial support from higher up. Not wise to neglect any health problems – see the experts. A reckless mood could prevail so drive carefully and check mechanical objects are in good order.

AQUARIUS: (January 20-February 19)

Lucky Colour: Pink

Lucky Day: Saturday

Racing Numbers: 2-9-1-4

Lotto Numbers: 4-12-19-26-31-32

A special period for love relationships and the singles could find the mate of their dreams – others could see a big improvement domestically and financially.

PISCES: (February 20-March 20)

Lucky Colour: Aqua

Lucky Day: Sunday

Racing Numbers: 4-2-7-8

Lotto Numbers: 1-9-14-24-27-32

Some will experience exciting business or work developments. A fire sign could improve your chances. Watch your diet; avoid over-emotionalism and get adequate rest as overindulgence could affect your overall health.

From The Weekly Advertiser archives: April 8, 2014 –Rachael Kerr, 19, left, and Samantha Bird, 20, were among the entrants of the Horsham Country Covergirl and Charity Queen Quest, which was open to people from across the region aged between 10 and 21. The quest aimed to raise more than $6000 for Natimuk Road Kindergarten and gave the entrants the opportunity to receive coaching from industry professionals and build character.

Nissan unwraps N-Trek

Nissan has released details of a new addition to the 2024 XTrail line-up this month, with the ST-L-based N-Trek variant joining the range priced from $47,290 plus on-road costs.

Aimed at families who are ‘more adventurous and daring’, the Nissan X-Trail N-Trek is available in five and seven-seat configurations and is said to bring an outdoor-inspired character to the portfolio.

The 2.5-litre petrol-powered X-Trail N-Trek is differentiated by a darkfinished V-motion grille, gunmetalfinished front and rear bumper inlays, and black-out wing mirror caps, door handles, and roof rails.

New LED fog lights are incorporated into the restyled front bumper, while variant-specific 18-inch alloys round out the exterior changes.

Paint options for the X-Trail NTrek include single-tone ceramic grey, champagne silver, diamond black, gun metallic, and ivory pearl.

Dual-tone hues – offered in conjunction with a black roof – include ceramic grey, champagne silver, and ivory pearl.

Moving inside we find water-resist-

ant synthetic leather upholstery Nissan says reflects the ‘more adventurous spirit of N-Trek buyers who are likely to return to their car after sporty activities outdoors’.

The variant also offers several technology inclusions, including a 12.3-inch instrumentation screen and 12.3-inch infotainment screen, and 10.8-inch head-up display projected onto the windscreen.

“We started the development of the X-Trail N-Trek with the simple motto: Let’s Get Dirty,” Nissan Europe, Middle East, Africa, India and Oceania vice president of product and marketing strategy and mobility Arnaud Charpentier said.

“It captures the spirit of a core group of X-Trail customers who embrace adventure, the outdoors, and want to use their vehicle to enjoy time and adventures together.

“The X-Trail N-Trek has been designed for them – it has a striking look that to unique N-Trek design details, as well as its new water-resistant interior and appealing two-tone paint options.

“They all combine to make a compelling formula.”

– Matt Brogan

Bentley boss: Level three autonomy ‘dangerous’

Bentley chief executive Adrian Hallmark has declared level three autonomous driving technology as ‘dangerous’, saying the Volkswagen Group subsidiary will increase focus on more advanced driver assistance systems instead.

Mr Hallmark – who will take over stewardship of Aston Martin later this year – said the danger in level three autonomy came when the driver was required to take over in select situations.

Level three autonomous driving technology is legally allowed to drive vehicles so equipped in Germany and some US states.

Mr Hallmark said as a result of said analysis, Bentley would focus on providing a more sophisticated version of its level two system – known as level two plus plus – in its forthcoming fully electric car, due in 2026. However, level two plus plus – and level two plus for that matter – is not recognised by SAE International.

“We think level three is dangerous from all the testing analysis that we have done because it relied too much on recovery of attention and intervention from the driver,” he explained.

The constant with all level two solutions is that the driver is always responsible for control of the vehicle.

Within the Volkswagen Group, Bentley comes under the control of Audi, which has yet to join German rivals BMW and Mercedes-Benz in launching a level three-ready car in its home market.

Manufacturers that offer level three autonomous driving do so in line with United Nations regulations that took effect in January 2021, governing Automated Lane Keeping Systems. The regulations allow level three

driving only at speeds of up to 60kmh on roads where there is a barrier separating vehicles as they move in opposite directions.

Level three may not be used on roads that allow cyclists or pedestrians.

The technology is considered by some to be problematic because it requires the driver to be ready to resume control of the vehicle at any time.

Under UN regulations, drivers must be monitoring to show they are available to regain control when required.

It is for this reason Mr Hallmark believes the technology is dangerous.

“Level three is the most risky phase of autonomous driving. Level four is much safer,” he said.

Level four-capable vehicles can operate independently in most scenarios, requiring far less driver interaction. However, the technology has not yet gained regulatory approval.

For Bentley, the delay allows time to perfect the technology.

“Some of the autonomous features that we will not get are better than the ones that we would have gotten under level three,” Mr Hallmark said.

–

Matt Brogan

ADVENTUROUS AND DARING: ST-L-based X-Trail N-Trek has joined the Nissan portfolio and is available now from $47,290 plus on-road costs.

Aaron Dean has over 29 years’ experience in tree trimming, removal clearing. Having worked for the local council, Powercor and various other businesses, Aaron decided to branch out into his own business, Lop The Top – Tree Service. The business first started out as a weekend operation but soon became a full-time job when more and more people contacted Aaron for a variety of work. Tree trimming and tree removal are the main sectors of Lop The Top – Tree Service, but Aaron also specialises in tight access removals and pruning for homes or business.

insurance to climb to unlimited heights, Aaron can tame all those tall trees such as palms and large gums using the most up-to-date arborist equipment. He can also supply eucalypt garden mulch by request.

Lop The Top specialises in storm damage and can manage any insurance jobs you may have. Aaron can work weekends, after hours, as well as emergency callouts.

Lop The Top – Tree Service works within a 100km radius of Horsham. For a free, no-obligation quote contact Aaron at Lop The Top – Tree Service today on 0428 195 090.

call

0418 869 919

Death Notices

90th

Jack Magee

90 Years

9th April 2024

FARRALL, Bradley Marcus

26.02.1979 - 30.03.2024

It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the death of Brad who passed away peacefully after a short illness.

A loved son of Maureen and Gary (dec), brother to Travis, Nicole and brother-in-law to Luke.

He was a fun uncle to Oscar, Daisy, Elle and Isla and a caring nephew to Margaret, Joan, Neville, Jan, Anne (dec), Gwyn and their families.

His kind heart, great sense of humour, enjoyment of music and reading, together with his enthusiasm on the subject of Buddy, Crawf and Black Beauty his car, will be sadly missed. A private family celebration of Bradley’s life will be held in accordance with his wishes.

Rest in Peace

our lives.

Love from Bev, Krissy, Jack, Mary, Oscar, Jo and families.

Go Cats!

Death Notices

PACKER, Maxwell Edward “Max”

Late of Goroke and St Kilda. Passed away after a long illness on April 1, 2024 aged 84 years.

Dearly loved partner of KK.

Son of the late Reg & Joyce. Brother of Marianne (dec).

Uncle to Jo, Cid and Joc. Reunited with loved ones

WALLIS, Kevin John

Passed away on April 1, 2024 aged 72 years.

Son of the late Jack & Shirley Wallis of Rainbow.

Dearly loved husband of Sandra.

Loving father and father in law of Paul & Ayae; Anne & Marc.

Adored Poppy to Charlie, Oscar and Greta. Reunited with loved ones In God’s Care

FRANCISCO, Judith Mary 12-6-1927 to 1-4-2024

Passed away at Wimmera Base Hospital

Loved wife of Thomas.

Mother of Margaret, Judy, Patricia, Christine, Moira, Elizabeth & Peter (dec).

Grandmother to 10.

Rest in Peace, We Love You

Horsham & District

Funerals

Dylan & Amity Hartwich 5382 1149

HASLER, Sue

Passed away on March 27, 2024 aged 74 years.

Loving daughter of Pat Aristidou.

Loved sister of Lynne, Trish, Gina, Helena and their families.

FERGUSON, Janet Joy “Jan”

Passed away peacefully at Natimuk Nursing Home on April 1, 2024 aged 80 years.

Dearly loved wife and best friend of Noel (dec)

Loving mother and mother in law of Lisa; Stuart & Jen; Annie & Daryl.

Loved Gran to Indy; Riley & Meg; Joe & Evie.

Dearly loved and sadly missed

Mother and mother-in-law of Colin & Deb; Carol; and Jodie.

Adored Nanna to Rhiannon and Mark; Matt, Dan and Alex.

Rest In Peace

FERGUSON, Janet Joy “Jan”

An Informal Gathering to Celebrate the Life of Jan Ferguson will take place at The Horsham Art Gallery (upstairs, via lift) on Thursday, 11 February 2024 commencing at 2pm. Privately cremated.

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter

Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member

FRANCISCO, Judith Mary

The funeral service to farewell the late Mrs Judith Francisco will be held at Ss. Michael & John’s Catholic Church, Horsham, Friday, April 12, 2024 commencing at 2pm Interment to follow at Horsham Lawn Cemetery.

Dylan & Amity Hartwich 5382 1149

Funeral Notices

HASLER, Sue

The funeral of Sue Hasler will take place at St Aidan’s Anglican Church, Natimuk on Friday, April 12, 2024 commencing at 2pm Private cremation.

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter

Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member

PACKER, Maxwell Edward “Max”

The funeral of Max Packer will take place at the graveside, Horsham Lawn Cemetery on Tuesday, April 16, 2024 commencing at 11am

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter

Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member

WALLIS, Kevin John

A Memorial Service to Celebrate the Life of Kevin John Wallis will take place at The Harvest Christian Church, Horsham on Wednesday, 10 April 2024 commencing at 11am. Privately interred.

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter

Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member Bereavement Thanks Thank you ~ NUSKE ~ Bryan Alfred

We are so grateful for the care and support of friends, neighbours and extended family in our time of sadness. The cards, flowers, food and generous time given to help out have been a beautiful gift to our family.

May I express sincere thanks to all the kind and loving family & friends who joined together over two special weeks to help me celebrate my 100th birthday. I appreciated more than I can fully express the cards, beautiful flowers, phone calls and visits I received expressing your good wishes. It was sheer pleasure to tread the boards again with Arts Council members, both old and new acquaintances, and I felt joy to see so many of my Horsham City Bowling Club friends from days gone by. Memories are made of celebrations like this, I can only say a humble “Thank you, all”. Avis Denholm

Ph

0410331573

0408535515

Pups Kelp-Collie x St Poodle well loved, ready, suit family w kids, source:MB223023 vet-checked mchip 953010006636005,006, 953010006635755,857,861,8

70,874,994, visits welcome Ph 0458169182

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

Purebred German Shepherd 8wks, black and tan, great temperament, toilet trained, straight, two boys and three girls, source# MB115424, m/ chip# 956000016586733/68728 9/6693126/6668157/6681104 Ph 0421018631

Pure-bred Labrador puppies, ready to go early April, vet checked and will be vaccinated, 1 gold bitch microchip# 985141007305071,1 black male microchip# 985141007305077,1 gold male microchip# 985141007305074, source# MB182447$2200, female $2000 males, Ph Nathan for more information 0418657247

Suffolk Rams, 18 months old,fully vaccinated, OB accredited, PIC3SGP010, ready to work, good bloodlines, well grown, $8000 plus GST, can arrange delivery Ph 0429196337

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

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

3x Ajax wool press $100ea plus Gst ono Ph 0428894258

5 30x 30 ton Silos for sale, $1500 ono Ph 042736194

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

Roll top desk, beer fridge, Haier fridge freezer, wooden frame tennis table, will separate Ph 0429093269

Simpson auto washing machine, Hisense chest freezer and bar fridge, will separate Ph 0408504550

Table, black steel, glass top, with three chairs, GC, outdoor $50 Ph 0419560817

3

for sale, 2 seater, sleeps 3, auto, deisel, fridge, tv, shower, toilet, stove and lots more, have to see to believe, can drive on normal car licence, 3.1m long, RWC, $45,000 with 12mth rego and RWC Ph Phillip 0428173606 or Susan and ask for Phillp 0458727370 Horsham

Jayco Finch pop top caravan, 2 double beds with fly mesh, electric brakes, boat racks and an annex, $15,000 Ph 53582560 Stawell

Ph 53824788

Kokoda Tribute 2 Platinum, 2015 as newcondition, semi-off-road, ensuite, custom design, lots extras $61,500 Ph 0493052729

REDUCED 2011 Pinnacle camper trailer - full off-road, hard floor, a full canvas annexe, tag hinge towing included, 2 new tyres- spare is brand new, 2 batteries Anderson plugs for charging batteries are included, 2 power points, light in camper, queen size bed and mattress, new fly screens in windows and doors, 4 burner gass stove, includes 2 gas bottles, 60 lt water tank,sink with water tap and electric pump to sink and outside tap, carries 2 large fuel containers, portable gas heater, portable toilet with pop-up shower or toilet cubicle, folding camp table, Rego till Sept 2024, U28090 $10,000ono Ph 0429942936

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

Cannon Shea, 18 plate, disc plough, hydraulic lift and fold $ 850 ono,Southern cross pump jack, electric motor, working $80, Asuc wool table $120 ono, Briggs and stratton motor, industrial, 16HP $120 ono

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

Gst Ph 0428852409 Murtoa

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

Gst Ph 0498549832

Fergy Tractor with roll frame 4’ slasher and carryall, all in good working order $4100ono Ph 0419134855

Fuel trailer, 650ltr $2200 Ph 0427716088

Header NH TR88 with 36’ McDon front 960, ready to go $25,000, Jaeske field bin, 28 tonne $5500 Ph 0428946395

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

Tractor Tyre , 1/2 the new price, 14.9 x 28, near new Ph 0353870522 AH or 0413073478

Vennings Grouper 14’, tarp, stands, shedded $3800 plus Gst Ph 0427064052

Workshop manuals, parts, books and catalogues Ph 0419821563

Agrowdrill 22run coil tine , shedded $27,000 plus Gst Ph 0427064052

Cattle scales Gallagher, never used, still in box, load bars, 600ml, 2500kgs, stainless steel platform, best offer over $2000 Ph 0438096662

Chicken manure, ex sheds or composted available now The Good Dirt Company Lethbridge Vic Ph 0409889250

Chipper mulcher mobile heavy duty, GX390, 12hp, honda motor $2800 Ph 0448826464

Chook house, 1500mm long 1400mm wide 1800mm high, nest box attached keep your chickens safe from predators $350 Ph 53583400

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

3 seater leather couch Ph 0439110899

Baltic pine kitchen dresser, buyer to collect, locally crafted in 1990, 2.8H x 1.32W x .52D $1890ono Ph 0429142897 & leave msg

Household items , Diamond Creek round pedestal table $140, buffet three door 3 draw $140, pine dressing table with mirror $50, double bed with frame bass, combination steel and timber head and foot, $100, 2x single bed Antique head and foot set, $30 each set Ph 0428504569

Vax Steamcleaner, as new $120 Ph 0429918241

18.6 tandem

1998

2009

John Deere

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

Full set of pads for evap cooler, new still in box, can be cut to size $400 Ph 0417166277

17’ speedboat Caribbean 150 V6

Yamaha on a Brooker tilt trailer, dual axle, motor has done 230hrs, VGC, all ski gear with the boat including boat cover, priced to sell $10,000 Ph 0407084235

3.7 Boat and cover, on aussie trailer with a yamaha 15HP motor, $5000 Ph 53582560 Stawell

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

REDUCED Chamberlain

C670 Tractor starts and runs well $3600, New Holland Small Bale Pick Up Loader $600, all in working order excess to requirements, all prices plus Gst Ph 0400603022

REDUCED Field Bins , 2 Jaeschke 32t field bins,

Home exercise machine, full body workout using vibrating system $120 Ph 0417166277

Horse hames, old, 8 pairs $40 pair ono, McCormick deering 2236 tractor, front wheel $120ono Ph 0407911884

Jumbuck outdoor gas oven, trolley and cover, new condition $250 Ph 0448826464

Lavour Wash combo FF70 , diesel shed heater and GT cold pressure washer $600 both Ph 0448826464

Massage Machine, duo MKII Professional complete with instructional DVD, $300ono Ph 0429820692

ML880 Stihl Magnum Chainsaw, GC, approximately 30hrs work, too heavy for me now Ph 0475142201

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

Dehavaland 4MT tinnie 25 HP

2/S yamaha electric

A large elephant ornament carrying a baby elephant in its trunk, 36cms tall and 538cms long, a quick sale for $600

cylmic caravan, full length annexe, elec brakes, heating / cooling b/d $27,750 Ph 53911050 Nhill

Jayco Westport , full annexe, a/c, oven, microwave, always shedded, many extras $22,000ono Ph 0419514118

Windsor Genesis caravan semi off road, 19.6 with shower and toilet, air con, diesel heater and solar system, VGC $28,000 Ph 0439809490 or 0411120780

Majestic Knight

Ph 0418991140 Kaniva

Concept Ascot caravan, 2006, 18’, pop-top, tare 1420, low kms, kept undercover, regularly serviced, EC, many extras inc, near new full annexe, easy to tow, R3373 $22,000

grill,

gas burners, electric fridge runs off solar electric, built in radio plus tv, storage cupboards over bed, storage under seats, reg until October 2024, $16,500 Ph 0409967815, Horsham Isuzu Outback Express Motorhome

2011 White Nissan Navara D40 STX550 V6 twin cab, auto, diesel, bull bar, driving lights, snorkel, long range fuel tank, dual battery system, 2 inch lift kit, canopy, hard top tonneau cover and roll bar, 1 owner, serviced regularly, rego paid until 23/12/2024, comes with RWC, engine number: V9X007595C, 297,500kms, YTZ 215 $25,600ono Ph Craig 0429832207

2016 VF SSV Series II Redline, sunroof. 6.2 LS 3, auto. 88,000kms, white with black roof, beautiful car to drive 1UY9ZJ $57,995 Ph 0427015393

2018 Toyota Landcruiser Sahara , Crystal Pearl, beige interior, EC, 7 seater, many extras, 98,000kms, 1MQ2IT $100,000neg Ph 0428982514

2019 Subaru Impreza Hatch back, AWD, glass electric sunroof, safety, comfort, Pearl White, EC, 40,000kms, 1PA8PJ $27900 Ph 0427822909

Honda Civic VTI-L Sportshatch 2017, CVT auto, 1.5L turbo, 5L/100km, fully optioned, Honda warranty, amazing car, as new, genuine sale, 1MT-2IG, 46,000km, $25,900 Ph 0408881137

• A

number, if registered

• Either an engine number, VIN or chassis number if the vehicle is not registered.

Instruments

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

Fender copy guitar, near new $275 Ph 0419509335

2 bedroom house for rent in Horsham Ph 0432774645

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

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

Massage Service , full body massage, 1 or 2 masseuses available, call for a quote and booking Ph 0460500827

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

Motorized Bike, Z box motor, selling due to Illness, $250, VGC Ph 0353824766

5x Hankook Dynapro ATM Tyres, 31.10, 5OR, 15 lt, 95% thread with black Sunraysia wheels, 6 stud, will not seperate $800 ono Ph 0418203511

$250 Ph 0407046864

2007 VE Commodore, no RWC, 3 months rego, 305,600kms, URN851, $2000 ono cash only Ph 53547510 evenings only

Black EL Futura , 04/98, limited edition factory silhouette black, Geelong plant executive order, complete with books, late model 4ltr engine, auto, air, cruise etc, runs and drives well,

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

2011 BMW X3, 6 cylinder, diesel turbo, white, 11 months rego, lovely car, 290,000km, YPC367 $10,000 Ph 0411502510

2011 Holden VE1 SV6 Commodore Sedan, GC, serviced every 6 months, auto, runs well, 330,358kms, YXP477 $7200 Ph 0407542856

2011 Toyota Camry, auto, VGC, RWC, genuine reason for selling, 226,000 kms, 1JX6HQ $8950 PH 0409433755

2010 Holden Commodore Calais sedan, immaculate, 1 owner car, always garaged, full service histor, RWC, 12mths rego, inspection welcome, XOM 292, 210,000kms $11000 Ph 0417033601

2013 Mazda 6 Touring SP 4D, Navman dashcam, reg till 12/09/24, good tyres, recent full service, recent new windscreen, 252,000kms,

TERMINATION

Wimmera Woodturners

Small repairs to wooden furniture

Call in to 95 McPherson Street

Tuesday afternoon between 1pm and 4pm New members are welcome

Friday, 12th of April, 2024, 10am

Want to volunteer?

TERMINATION

TERMINATION

Fire Restrictions

TERMINATION

TERMINATION

CFA and the Forest Fire Management

Early Childhood Educators

Fire Restrictions

Fire Restrictions

Vic have varied Fire Restrictions (Fire Danger Period and Prohibited Period respectively) for all private land within the municipalities listed below.

Fire Restrictions

Fire Restrictions

PART TIME

The Fire Restriction Period will terminate at 0100 hours on the dates shown.

CFA and the Forest Fire Management

CFA and the Forest Fire Management

CFA and the Forest Fire Management Vic have varied Fire Restrictions (Fire Danger Period and Prohibited Period respectively) for all private land within the municipalities listed below.

CFA and the Forest Fire Management Vic have varied Fire Restrictions (Fire Danger Period and Prohibited Period respectively) for all private land within the municipalities listed below.

Diploma Qualified Educator Natimuk Rd Kindergarten - Horsham 5 days a week – 33.50 hours

Vic have varied Fire Restrictions (Fire Danger Period and Prohibited Period respectively) for all private land within the municipalities listed below.

Vic have varied Fire Restrictions (Fire Danger Period and Prohibited Period respectively) for all private land within the municipalities listed below.

Applications close 5pm Friday 12 April 2024

The Fire Restriction Period will terminate at 0100 hours on the dates shown.

The Fire Restriction Period will terminate at 0100 hours on the dates shown.

CASUAL – Horsham, Hindmarsh, Stawell Teachers, Diploma’s & Cert III Qualified Educators Kindergarten and Long Day Care

The Fire Restriction Period will terminate at 0100 hours on the dates shown.

The Fire Restriction Period will terminate at 0100 hours on the dates shown.

Certain restrictions on the lighting of fires are in force during the Fire Restriction Period. Information about fire restrictions within the Country Area of Victoria can be obtained from www.cfa.vic.gov.au, your local CFA District Office or Municipal Fire Prevention Officer

Please forward your application and resume via e-mail to hr@eeys.com.au or apply via www.eeys.com.au/careers

More information or to obtain a Position

Description contact Ellen Scott on 0475 294 549 or email hr@eeys.com.au

Situations Vacant

Senior Advisor, Community Partnerships Team

Information about fire restrictions within the Fire Protected Area can be obtained from www.ffm.vic.gov.au, or your local Forest Fire Management Victoria Fire District Officer.

Certain restrictions on the lighting of fires are in force during the Fire Restriction Period. Information about fire restrictions within the Country Area of Victoria can be obtained from www.cfa.vic.gov.au, your local CFA District Office or Municipal Fire Prevention Officer

Certain restrictions on the lighting of fires are in force during the Fire Restriction Period. Information about fire restrictions within the Country Area of Victoria can be obtained from www.cfa.vic.gov.au, your local CFA District Office or Municipal Fire Prevention Officer

Certain restrictions on the lighting of fires are in force during the Fire Restriction Period. Information about fire restrictions within the Country Area of Victoria can be obtained from www.cfa.vic.gov.au, your local CFA District Office or Municipal Fire Prevention Officer

Certain restrictions on the lighting of fires are in force during the Fire Restriction Period. Information about fire restrictions within the Country Area of Victoria can be obtained from www.cfa.vic.gov.au, your local CFA District Office or Municipal Fire Prevention Officer

109 Lava Street, Warrnambool VIC 3280

$106,534 – $128,897 (full-time equivalent per annum) plus superannuation

Jason Heffernan Chief Officer – CFA

Information about fire restrictions within the Fire Protected Area can be obtained from www.ffm.vic.gov.au, or your local Forest Fire Management Victoria Fire District Officer.

Information about fire restrictions within the Fire Protected Area can be obtained from www.ffm.vic.gov.au, or your local Forest Fire Management Victoria Fire District Officer.

Information about fire restrictions within the Fire Protected Area can be obtained from www.ffm.vic.gov.au, or your local Forest Fire Management Victoria Fire District Officer.

Ongoing - Full time FTE 1.0 (Job share and part time will be considered)

Chris Hardman Chief Fire Officer – Forest Fire Management Vic

Information about fire restrictions within the Fire Protected Area can be obtained from www.ffm.vic.gov.au, or your local Forest Fire Management Victoria Fire District Officer.

Jason Heffernan

Jason Heffernan

The Senior Advisor will:

Chief Officer – CFA

Jason Heffernan

Jason Heffernan

Chief Officer – CFA

Chief Officer – CFA

Chief Officer – CFA

Chris Hardman

Chris Hardman

you want to volunteer but don’t know where to start, Julie Pettet, CEO of the Centre for Participation in Horsham has a few ideas to help you on your way.

Chief Fire Officer – Forest Fire Management Vic

• develop, facilitate, and navigate relationships with local community stakeholder organisations, services and local governments on partnership projects and programs determined by local area and Department priorities.

Chris Hardman Chief Fire Officer – Forest Fire Management Vic

Chief Fire Officer – Forest Fire Management Vic

Chris Hardman Chief Fire Officer – Forest Fire Management Vic

> Follow your passion - you’ll be happier and more effective volunteering in something you love

> Know what you want out of it - to meet people? change the world? care for animals? share skills? get a job?

> Contact Centre for Participation or a community group near you, to match your skills and needs, with volunteering vacancies

www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au

• inform, plan, and deliver place-based initiatives, locally and with other government bodies and units to drive opportunities that prioritise reform. The role will connect and navigate stakeholders to improve outcomes for local communities in line with Department strategy.

• manage local partnership approaches to community assets across neighbourhood houses, men’s sheds, and public housing community facilities according to program requirements and policy settings.

• provide operational support to the Community Partnership Team. This position, at certain times, will be required to operate outside normal office hours (at night and on weekends and public holidays).

Are you:

• A leader who thrives on codesigning successful enduring partnerships?

• A great listener and creative systems thinker who advocates to address community needs and achieve organisational priorities?

English Language Program Trainer (Casual)

Are you passionate about making a positive impact on migrant communities? Do you possess excellent teaching and communication skills? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you to become an integral part of our team at the Centre for Participation.

As an English Language Trainer, you'll play a vital role in designing, developing, and delivering English language classes to newly arrived migrants.

Your responsibilities will include creating engaging lesson plans, providing supportive learning environments, and assisting students in building confidence in their English language skills. Additionally, you'll collaborate with our Community Impact Manager to ensure effective training delivery and support for our learners.

For further information: contact Marieke Dam on 0493 969 624 or marieke@cfp.org.au.

To apply, you must submit an application addressing the key selection criteria to vacancy@centreforparticipation.org.au by COB Monday the 14th of April 2024.

Join us in making a positive impact on the lives of our community members. Apply now and be a part of our passionate and dedicated team!

• Able to lead and inspire others to come on the community capacity building journey with you?

• A person who delivers visible results that will contribute to improving the health of Victorians?

Contact for further information: Dianne Stewart, Dianne.stewart@dffh.vic.gov.au

Reference number: DFFH/COPL/678806

Applications close: 11.59pm Wednesday 10th April 2024

Formoreinformationaboutthisopportunity,pleasegoto www.careers.vic.gov.au and download a position description to view departmental information,theselectioncriteria,ourpreemploymentscreeningrequirementsandour DiversityandInclusioncommitments.

Situations vacant

•

•

•

Customer Service Officer

•Casual

• Usual hours could include 10:00 - 14:00 or 12:00 - 17:00

Ready to serve our vibrant local community and be part of a diverse and supportive team? This is your opportunity! Apply today and become a valued member of the HRCC family.

To find out more, scan the QR code or go to hrcc.recruitmenthub.com.au

Opportunity This Way

Join the Hindmarsh team and contribute to our beautiful Shire.

Current Vacancies

Director Coroprate Community Services

Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer as part of the executive leadership team, the Director Corporate and Community Services supports the organisation to implement and achieve the strategic direction of the Council. You must be an excellent communicator with a passion for, and understanding of, a rural council operating within a tight-knit community.

Free From Violence Project Officer (Closing date Extended)

Funded through the Local Government Free from Violence Program, you will be integral in supporting the health and wellbeing of our community and organisation through engaging in primary prevention activities that reduce gender-based and family violence and promote gender equality.

Applications close Wednesday 24 April 2024 at 12noon.

Scan the QR code for details about these roles and how to apply, visit our website www. hindmarsh.vic.gov.au/work-in-council or contact our Customer Service Centre on 03 5391 4444.

Hindmarsh Shire Council is committed to increasing diversity across the organisation. We encourage anyone to apply for our vacancies regardless of their age, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, or disability status.

GWMWater invites tender submissions for the design and construction of Donald Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP). This contract includes the following scope of works:

> Construction of WWTP building, bunded concrete pads, hardstand and access roads.

> Installation of free-issued mechanical treatment equipment.

> Design, supply, and installation of site effluent pump station and flowmeter valve pit.

> Design and construction of off-grid power system.

> Design and construction of electrical system including PLC and SCADA integration.

A compulsory Microsoft Teams meeting will be held at 1 pm Tuesday, 30 April 2024. To register for this meeting please contact GWMWater’s Senior Process Engineer, Carl Haby.

More information about this tender is available on our website at gwmwater.org.au/tenders. Enquiries may be directed to Carl Haby, Senior Process Engineer on 1300 659 961.

Tenders close 2 pm, Thursday 9 May 2024

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

Mark Williams Managing Director

GWMWater is an innovative water corporation providing, managing, operating and protecting water supply and sewerage systems within the Grampians, Wimmera and Mallee regions of Victoria. Contract Number: C01276 Design and Construction of

Key Responsibilities:

• Ability to research, create and submit a body of factually accurate stories daily, guided by experienced mentors.

• Work efficiently to deliver news stories on time, and adhere to

exciting opportunity, send your resume and cover letter to: Brendan O’Loughlin, General Manager brendano@aceradio.com.au

Radio Broadcasters is an

Harrow-Balmoral YoUr CLUB in 2024

Premiers remain hung r y

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

After an undefeated season with a premiership in 2023, some Horsham District Football Netball League onlookers might wonder how Harrow-Balmoral will maintain its hunger for success this year.

Returning playing coach Jai Thompson believes it will be no issue for the Southern Roos. Thompson said the team’s senior players were driven to capitalise on their premiership opportunities, and that an emerging group of young players would only add to their motivation.

“We’ve had a lot of under17s kids come up this year and there’s a good wave of young talent coming through. It’s brought a real spark to the group of older guys who took a bit of time off after the grand final last year,” he said.

“They make things exciting, because they’re coming in wanting to be in a successful team.

“With us being in a window where most of our good players are over 30 or pushing 30, we

CoaChes

Seniors: Jai Thompson

Reserves: Jeremy Watt

Under-17s: Will Burbury

Under-14s: Ed Ferguson

Under-11s: To be confirmed

Under-9s: To be confirmed

want to make the most of this opportunity we’ve got to push ourselves and achieve as much success as we can.”

Among the young players Thompson expects to step up this season are George Austin, Josh Grant, Rhys Daffey and Maddox Blake, who all made senior appearances last year.

“They’ve been impressive at training. They’re coming in having had a taste of it already and they’re the most likely to get games straight away,” Thompson said.

“But then Alex Rees has been awesome and Brody Devlin has been good at training as well.

“It’s a good crop of kids coming through, and they played finals in under-17s last year as well, so they know what

finals footy is like.” The Roos have also enticed two former premiership players back to the club – utility Cody Deutscher from Coleraine and midfielder Scott Addinsall from Cavendish.

Developing young ruckman Charlie Langley will cross from Glenthompson-Dunkeld, adding height to a team that suddenly finds itself in need of some.

Thompson said his team would need to change its playing style after losing five players from last year’s premiership side, including tall forwards James Staude and Simon Close, who kicked a combined 130 goals last season.

Staude has retired, while Close will miss the entire season with a knee injury suffered in the 2023 grand final. Also out are Tyson Berg, Tom Conheady and Greg Hamilton.

But Thompson said the departures presented opportunities to keep his side engaged.

“Sometimes after you win a premiership, the next year you can be a bit stale if you keep trying to do the same things and play the same way,” he said.

“We’re going to lose some

pretty tall forwards with Jimmy and Simon being out from last year, so we’re looking at ways we can move the ball differently – maybe use some hit-ups and try to get back behind the footy and run the ball a lot more.”

While acknowledging the team’s premiership aspirations, Thompson stopped short of saying it was ‘premiership or bust’ for the Roos.

“I hate to put that sort of pressure on that if you don’t win the grand final the season is a failure, because it’s a one-day game and anything can happen,” he said.

“We weren’t far off being beaten in the grand final last year by Jeparit-Rainbow after having an 80-point semi-final win against them.

“I think a grand final appearance is our minimum. That’s where we want to be, and then obviously once you get there, winning a premiership is what you want to do.

“We know we’re going to be the hunted team and teams are going to try to knock us down and find ways to beat us. It’s up to us to adapt and make ourselves better.”

HARROW-BALMORAL FOOTBALL NETBALL CLUB

COACHING STAFF – FOOTBALL

Senior – Jai Thompson

Reserves – Jeremy Watt

Under 17s – Will Burbury

Under 14s – Ed Ferguson

Go Roos!

2024 SPONSORS

We would like to thank all our sponsors for their continued support

COACHING STAFF – NETBALL

A Grade – Emily Langley

B Grade – Alice Houlihan and Courtney Clough

C Grade – Maddi Uebergang and Ellie Robertson

C Reserve – Donna Hobbs

Under 17s – Amber McClure

Under 15s – Penny Dunstan

Under 13s – Ash Simons

Playing senior coach Jai Thompson will return to the field this season.

Consistency main goal Harrow-Balmoral YoUr CLUB in 2024

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Harrow-Balmoral’s A Grade team might have finished last season without a competitive win, but new coach Emily Langley believes a return to finals might be closer than many Horsham District league onlookers expect.

The Roos’ only two victories in 2023 came thanks to a pair of forfeits by Kaniva-Leeor United, leaving the team at the foot of the ladder.

But Langley was adamant her team could play finals this year thanks to the return of some key players.

“It was a tough year for the girls because there were a few outs with injuries, babies and life in general,” she said.

“Luckily, we’ve been able to bring a few back in.

“Megan Little comes back after having a baby, which will be great help for us at the defensive end, and Tori Dunstan has come home after having a gap year and will fill in at the attacking end.

“We also get Amber McClure back after doing her ACL last year, and she’s a midcourter, so we have picked up some strong players in each third of the court.

“We are very happy with that.”

Langley said younger players such as Tara McIntyre, who played 12 A Grade games last season, would continue to receive opportunities.

“Also in line for senior experience this year are the likes of Rori Mason and Mia Rees.”

Out from last year’s A Grade team will be goalie Brittany Keller, who will play for the Wimmera league’s Horsham Demons, defender Marli Pymer, who crosses to Noradjuha-Quantong, and midcourt player Jemma Nagorcka, who is working abroad.

Langley said the remaining 2023 A Grade squad members and incoming players were all eager to prove themselves this season.

“The summer has been really good. We’ve had really good numbers – I was quite surprised at how keen everyone has been to hit the track and start preseason well,” she said.

“That’s a really nice thing to come into as a fresh coach.

“The girls are really hungry this year and want to do well.

“They were a bit disappointed last year with how the season went, and they want to do much better.”

Langley said a finals appear-

CoaChes

A Grade: Emily Langley

B Grade: Courtney Clough and Alice Crick

C Grade: Maddi Uebergang and Ellie Robertson

C Reserve: Donna Hobbs

17-and-under: Amber McClure

15-and-under: Penny Dunstan

13-and-under: Sherryn Simpson

NetSetGo: Not confirmed

ance would only serve as a pass mark for the team in 2024.

“We want to be there come finals time – that’s our aim this year and I think we have a really good chance to do that,” she said.

“Consistency is going to be our main thing.

“We’re hoping to run out games and be able to have consistent pressure across the court.

“Finals will be our baseline to be honest, and then anything further we would be really happy with.”

Jorja Jones will return to the court for Harrow-Balmoral this season.

Motivated for next step

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

As Noradjuha-Quantong’s senior footballers prepare for a blockbuster round-one clash against Harrow-Balmoral, the thoughts of many will turn back seven months.

The Bombers were on track to meet the Roos in last season’s grand final until a come-frombehind preliminary final victory by Jeparit-Rainbow derailed what would have been a rematch of the 2019 grand final.

While returning NoradjuhaQuantong coach Damian Cameron said the loss was not explicitly discussed during the summer, he could tell it had motivated his charges to take another step forward in 2024.

“It’s been huge motivation for us,” he said.

“It’s not something we concentrate on and talk about all the time, but the group knows how much it hurts to get so close and yet so far at the same time.”

Despite the team being propelled by a painful defeat, Cameron said the mood at Quantong Recreation Reserve had been positive throughout pre-season.

“The whole squad has been really upbeat from the first training

CoaChes

Seniors: Damian Cameron

Reserves: Brent McIntyre

Under-17s: Heath Francis

Under-14s: Jason Rowe

Under-11s: Shane Oakley

Under-9s: To be confirmed

and guys have put their hand up to say they definitely want to go a step further,” he said.

Team cohesion could play a part in the Bombers’ bid for a 2024 grand final berth, with most of last year’s squad returning.

Only veteran Mick Phelan has departed, while the club has picked up a few handy recruits.

Among the inclusions is key defender Brayden Carra, who crosses from former Wimmera Football Netball League side Southern Mallee Giants, which merged with Jeparit-Rainbow during the summer to form Southern Mallee Thunder.

Also joining the Bombers are brothers Harley and Ryder Pope from Horsham Demons, while former club junior Judah Hobbs

Cameron said the recruits would nicely complement NoradjuhaQuantong’s corps of developing young players.

“We haven’t gone out recruiting big guns, we’ve just picked up a few guys who we hope will slot into what we’ve been doing and join along with the side we’ve already got,” he said.

“I’m not looking so much at making changes as working more on what we did last year.

“We brought a few new things in last year, and guys are still getting used to that new style.

“Having such a young group they’re good learners and happy to do whatever we’re working on, so I think we’ll dig deeper into what we’ve already been doing and try to perfect that a little bit more, because I did work for us.”

Cameron said his team was focused on playing its best football against the reigning premiers this weekend.

“It’s been a long wait after missing out on a grand final by a few points, so we’re keen to get into it,” he said.

“I wouldn’t say we’ve got unfinished business, but there are defi-

Bombers raring to go Noradjuha-Quantong YoUr CLUB in 2024

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

The Noradjuha-Quantong Bombers will look to maintain a steady cruising altitude as they embark on their 2024 A Grade netball campaign.

Consistently ranking among the Horsham District league’s top teams, the Bombers finished 2023 in fourth place on the ladder with a 10-6 record, winning an elimination final against Jeparit-Rainbow before falling to a powerful Rupanyup side in a semi final.

Returning coach Fiona Rowe said her team was intent on returning to last year’s level before attempting to push even deeper into finals.

“Our goal is definitely to make it to the last week of the finals, but ultimately to extend the players in terms of their ability to connect with each other,” she said.

“We want to provide a supportive environment where the girls feel safe to challenge each other to become better netballers and ultimately better team-mates.” Noradjuha-Quantong will field a similar team this season, with defender Stef Cooper a key loss after suffering an injury last year.

CoaChes

A Grade: Fiona Rowe

B Grade: Carly Shields

C Grade: Sharon Fedke

C Reserve: Prue Eldridge and Sandra Treacy

17-and-under: To be confirmed

15-and-under: To be confirmed

13-and-under: To be confirmed

NetSetGo: To be confirmed

But the Bombers will be bolstered by the return of Yolanda Francis after the birth of her child, as well as Holly Nuske, who crosses from the Wimmera league’s Horsham Demons, and Marli Pymer from Harrow-Balmoral.

Rowe said Cooper would be ‘a huge loss’, but believed Noradjuha-Quantong had the depth to cover for the injured defender. She said younger players would also be given opportunities this season.

“Bella McIntyre is one of our juniors coming up. It will be good to see her get a bit more court time this year and develop into a senior player,” Rowe said.

“She’s a high-quality all-around player, but this year she’ll probably play more in attack.”

Rowe said enthusiasm was high ahead of the Bombers’ first game against Harrow-Balmoral.

“Everyone has been training really hard, and they’re all looking fit and ready. We’re raring to go for round one,” she said.

“It’s so exciting to get the season rolling. It will be great to have the first hitout under our belts.”

With Edenhope-Apsley losing several players after a dominant premiership season last year, Rowe said she expected the competition to be more open in 2024.

She labelled Laharum the team to beat, and said the Bombers would be focused on making sure they could match the league’s top teams.

“Laharum is probably the benchmark now with EdenhopeApsley’s side getting depleted a bit. Being able to compete against them is our goal,” she said.

“We want to be confident in ourselves and our own strategies, and play our own game.

“Every game we’ll have to bring our quality to the court.”

PROUD

Brooke Pay on the court for Noradjuha-Quantong last season.

Minyip-Murtoa YoUr CLUB in 2024

Fresh approach to season

BY LAUREN HENRY

Minyip-Murtoa Football Netball Club is hoping a new senior coach, a fresh approach and an injection of new players to bolster its midfield stocks will see it play deep into the finals this season.

After finishing fourth on the ladder and being knocked out in the first week of the Wimmera league finals, the Burras are keen to be among the best in the competition.

Senior coach Gareth Hose comes to Minyip-Murtoa with a strong football background, having coached NoradjuhaQuantong in Horsham district league between 2018 and 2022, and before that, Beulah in the now defunct Mallee league.

He has also been bench coach for Southern Mallee Giants and assistant coach for several clubs in his playing days.

Hose has taken over the reins at the Burras from Tim Mackenzie, who coached Minyip-Murtoa to a flag in 2022.

“Pre-season has been excellent so far. It’s been fantastic buy-in from the playing group, and our numbers have been fantastic,” Hose said.

“All the guys have been putting in hard work, which has been really pleasing.”

Hose said the Burras had impressed him in a practice match against Donald in late March.

CoaChes

Seniors: Gareth Hose

Reserves: Heath Pohl

Under-17s: Warwick Stone

Under-14s: Brent Hudson

Under-11s: Clinton Midgley

“We had most of our playing list available and were able to work on a number of things we’ve been working on in the pre-season,” he said.

A trio of 2019 Minyip-Murtoa premiership players will return to the fold – brothers Ben and Tim McIntyre and former best and fairest Kade Petering, who has most recently played for Bell Park in the Geelong league.

The Burras have also recruited Nick Cushing from Redan in the Ballarat league; Dusty Cross, Kangaroo Island; and Sam Griffiths, South Bendigo.

“We feel like those guys we have brought in will especially strengthen our midfield, which is an area that I was informed from a previous coach that we probably needed to try to strengthen –we feel like we’ve filled some of those spots pretty well,” Hose said.

But the Burras are not without their losses, with Will Cameron, Will Holmes, Nick Caris, Corey Morgan, Jordan Delahunty and Tyler Pidgeon leaving the club.

“I think our strength is our team defence, which is really just carrying on from previous years under Tim as coach and John Delahunty as coach,” Hose said.

“I feel that so far in the pre-season that we’re fairly well settled with structure around that.

“I’m also pretty excited by Oscar Gawith – he’s a talented young bloke who potentially could have taken his footy further but he’s chosen to remain at home on the farm.

“I think he only played a few games for the club last year, because of his Rebels’ duties, but this year we hope to get a full season out of him and he can play multiple roles on the ground.”

Gawith, 193 centimetres tall, was also called up to represent Vic Country at mid-national championships last year.

Hose said while finals were the aim, he was not getting too far ahead of himself.

“The strength of the league looks like it’s going to be very even,” he said.

“Obviously we have a goal of making finals and then trying to finish as high as we possibly can in that final five to give ourselves the best opportunity.

“But we just need to get all our processes right along the way. I know that sounds boring, but you can’t really look too far ahead because as soon as you start doing that, you start to stumble.”

Hose said the Burras were hoping to field a full-strength side against Nhill in round one at Minyip on April 20.

Charlie Penny is expected to return to the field for Minyip-Murtoa this season.

YoUr CLUB in 2024

Minyip-Murtoa

Back in the swing of things

Minyip-Murtoa’s senior netball coach believes the future looks promising for the club after a solid start to 2024.

Kirby Knight will return to the Burras to coach A and B grades and is looking forward to the season.

She said pre-season started well with between 50 and 60 players trialling for positions across all grades.

“There was a lot to juggle but it was good to see lots of returning faces and lots of new faces,” Knight said.

“We’re back in the swing of things.

“Sometimes going into pre-season it can take some time to get into it, but we’ve hit the ground running and the girls seem to be enjoying it.”

Minyip-Murtoa finished the 2023 season with three wins and in eighth position on the ladder.

Knight said due to numbers the coaches had selected an A and B grade squad and a C Grade and C Reserve squad.

“It was quite early to determine where players sit. We wanted to make sure by

taking a squad we had the opportunity to give players a chance to move up and down,” she said.

“You never know what might happen in terms of people going away or injuries or people changing their minds about where they want to play.”

Knight said many juniors also trialled for positions on senior teams.

“We had quite a few juniors looking for a crack at a more competitive level,” she said.

“For a group of juniors, they do well and hold their own quite nicely.

“It’s good to have so many juniors coming through the ranks that are just as capable to play seniors.

“Juniors have plenty of numbers, which is good for the club if you can build them in junior teams and then give them a crack at a higher grade, so it all looks very promising.”

Knight said she was looking forward to getting back among the club atmosphere.

“I spent five years with the Burras when I first finished juniors and went across to the Wimmera league,” she said.

CoaChes

A Grade: Kirby Knight

B Grade: Kirby Knight

C Grade: Kristy Davidson

C Reserve: Kristy Davidson

17-and-under: Christy Muller

15-and-under: Beth Harris

13-and-under: Loretta Leith

NetSetGo: Jess Boschen

“I won my first A Grade premiership playing for the Burras, so from my point of view it’s nice to be back around the club. It is a great family club, both on and off the court and oval.

“I’m excited to get back on court with some of the players who have been here before and to see how the new ones go.

“We have some new families with netballers and footballers, so it looks like it will be a good year across the board in terms of being competitive and having a good time.”

Minyip-Murtoa will host Nhill in round one.

Lucy Brand in action for the Burras in 2023.

Aiming for top three Dimboola YoUr CLUB in 2024

BBY LAUREN HENRY

olstered by a new influx of recruits, Dimboola has its sights firmly set on a top-three finish in season 2024.

The Roos finished fifth last season but were able to beat Minyip-Murtoa in an elimination final before being bundled out in the second week of Wimmera league finals with a 40-point loss to Horsham Saints in the first semi-final.

Playing coach Jack Landt will be joined by his friend Jackson Calder, a team-mate from 2023 premiershipwinning St Mary’s in Northern Territory Football League.

Calder, who played for Mornington last year, is a potent full forward who kicked 72 goals for St Mary’s this season. But it is midfielder Andrew Moore who is the Roos’ biggest recruit.

Moore comes to Dimboola after playing 60 AFL games with Port Adelaide and Richmond, before carving out a stellar career for North Adelaide in the South Australian National Football League.

“We’re definitely aiming for a top three spot again this year,” Landt said.

“There’s no reason why we can’t perform a bit better than last year.

“We’re definitely going for a second chance, and going deep into finals this year.”

CoaChes

Seniors: Jack Landt

Reserves: Dean Toet

Under-17s: Nick Williamson

Under-14s: Sam Taylor

Under-12s: Josh Cook, Daniel Greig and Chris Avery

Landt said he had been impressed with the Roos’ pre-season, with lots of local players and junior footballers progressing to Dimboola’s senior team.

The Roos played practice matches against Harrow-Balmoral on March 23, and Great Western on Saturday.

“It actually went really well. We were missing a fair chunk of senior players, so we probably had 13 to 14 young guys and reserves playing and they all played really well, which was a good sign for the season,” Landt said.

Other key recruits include defender and ruckman Pat McDonough, from PEGS in Victorian Amateur Football Association, forward Ben Brett from PINT in the NTFL, while Ash Clugston returns to the club where he was a four-time best and fairest and Michael Pohlner comes back from Minyip-Murtoa.

But it’s not all sunshine and rain-

bows, with the Roos losing Sam Godden, Jonathan Ross and Aisea Raikiwasa from last year’s team.

“Our strength this season will be having a spread of good players. We’ve had some good players, but all played the same position in the past,” Landt said.

“Now we’ve a gun key forward, a centre half back who can play in the ruck and a star midfielder in Moore, and around that we’ll have pretty good coverage across the whole ground this year, which is exciting.”

Landt said another exciting prospect was the progression of Alex Jakiel.

“He’s an 18-year-old who played really well in the practice match and trained hard since October,” he said.

“He’s going to be one to watch this season for sure. Him and Patty Clark is another one. He’s probably played 20 senior games now. He’s looking ready to step up this year.”

Landt will be assisted by bench coach Matthew Everett, while Ben Miller and Moore will be playing assistant coaches.

Dimboola has a bye in round one, and will be itching to play Nhill on April 27.

“There’s a good rivalry between Dimboola and Nhill over many years, so it’s good to get up there to play our first game and put everything in place we’ve been training for. The boys can’t wait to get out there,” Landt said.

Ben Miller is a playing assistant coach with the Roos this season.

Roos ready to jump Dimboola YoUr CLUB in 2024

After a historic preliminary final appearance for Dimboola A Grade netballers last season, the team is looking to go one better in 2024.

Until 2023, Dimboola had not seen its premier netball team play a semi-final in 50 years or a preliminary final since the 1960s.

The team will be coached this season by Ashlee Morrish who has played two seasons with the Roos in A Grade.

She takes the reins from co-coaches Nicole Polycarpou and Ant Toet.

The new playing coach said she was excited for the season.

“We have great versatility in our squad this season, which will be one of our strengths,” she said.

“We’ve welcomed some new players to the senior ranks and have seen good numbers on the court for pre-season.

“The girls have been putting in the hard work in this early part of the year and are now feeling ready to go.”

Morrish said the team’s goal would be to push for a grand final appearance this year after losing in a preliminary final last season.

“I’m looking forward to seeing what the competition across the league will look like this year,” she said.

“I’m definitely hoping to go one better, hopefully.”

The Roos will be bolstered by some new additions to their A and B grade squad, including two players coming across from Jeparit-Rainbow.

Defender Bridgette Dorrington and midcourt player and goaler Maddie Marra will join the senior ranks at Dimboola, while Olivia Dunstan, centre court, and the returning Stephanie Glover, defender and midcourter, have also been named in the squad.

“Hopefully we’re pretty strong. We’ve actually got quite a few new people in the A and B squad,” Morrish said.

“I’ve been very impressed with the new ones we have. They’ve been an unexpected sort of surprise.”

Morrish said the only loss from last year’s A Grade team was Holly Ross, who had left to play for Pimpinio. The full A and B grade squad is as follows: Billie Barber, Olivia Beugelaar, Bridget Dorrington, Olivia Dunstan, Paige Glover, Stephanie Glover, Emma Griffiths, Olivia Lehmann, Maddie

CoaChes

A Grade: Ashlee Morrish

B Grade: Ant Toet

C Grade: Tori Lehmann

C Reserve: Kellie Laverty

17-and-under: Anna Lake and Kayla Mibus

15-and-under: Emma and Katie Griffiths

13-and-under: Tilli Menzel and Maryam Yahiat

NetSetGo: Becky Barry

Marra, Tilli Menzel, Kayla Mibus, Ash Morrish, Alyssa Petschel, Nicole Polycarpou, Isobelle Schorback, and Rhiannon Smith.

The Roos’ attention is now fully set on season 2024 following a solid pre-season.

“We had a practice match against Harrow, which was really good. We tried the combinations, which all worked really well,” Morrish said.

Dimboola has a bye in round one, with its first match against Nhill in round two on April 27.

Nicole Polycarpou will again take to the court for Dimboola.

‘It’s awesome in Horsham’

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Horsham Motorcycle Club leaders are over the moon after round two of the ProMX Motocross Championship, describing the event as a resounding success.

Horsham played host to a stage of the championship – Australia’s topclass motocross competition – for the first time in several years, drawing an estimated crowd of more than 2500.

Attendees were treated to ideal conditions and a standard of racing that Horsham Motorcycle Club secretary Kenny Watts described as outstanding.

“The riders stepped up to another level, I reckon,” he said.

“They were throwing everything including the kitchen sink at it to try and get a good result.”

Winner of the MX1 category was Jed Beaton, with Queenslanders Nathan Crawford and Kirk Gibbs rounding out the podium.

“Jed Beaton won an Australian title in 2016, so he’s come back and rekindled some form that he had nearly 10 years ago, which was great to see,” Watts said.

Watts said both riders and onlookers had been impressed by the state of the Horsham track and its facilities.

“We think it went perfectly. Motorcycling Australia was rapt with it,” he said.

“The last time they were here was in 2018 for the FIM Junior Motocross World Championship.

“The organisers from ProMX and all the officials rated us very highly. We loved working with them and were grateful for the assistance they gave us. I think Horsham has set the bar high again.”

Watts said the Wimmera region would see positive flow-on effects from the event.

“It’s televised live, so to get people to travel is sometimes difficult, but I bumped into people from Mount Gambier, from Warrnambool, from Echuca and Adelaide,” he said.

“I don’t believe you could get accommodation in Horsham at the weekend.

“People were having to travel from outside of town, so it not only brought economic benefits to Horsham, but to the wider region with accommodation being used in other towns nearby.

“When you do a major event that brings people from outside the region, that’s where it’s a massive spin-off for the community.”

Watts thanked Horsham Rural City Council, club volunteers and other community groups for helping to

stage the event. “We’re very grateful for all the volunteers who came along and helped. By Monday night the venue was pretty much spotless again,” he said.

“A big thank you to the council for giving us the opportunity to run it here in Horsham and helping us run it.

“It makes it a lot easier when you have the council’s support for events, and we’re rapt with the support they gave us.

“We had Mayor Robyn Gulline out and she waved the chequered flag in one of the races.

“Taylors Lake Football Netball Club came out because one of our vendors pulled out at the last minute, so they came and ran a barbecue and raised some money for their club too.

“It lived up to the old saying – it’s awesome in Horsham.”

PREPARED: Nathan Crawford warms up before his race. FRONT RUNNER: Kyle Webster, 96, leads riders into a corner on the Horsham track.

FLYING: Joel Evans, 81, and Bryce Ognenis in action.

IN CONTROL: Nathan Crawford competes in the ProMX Motocross Championship on Sunday. Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

Golf champions crowned

Casey Schmidt and Tracey Hobbs are Horsham Golf Club’s respective men’s and women’s champions after the conclusion of the club championship at the weekend.

Schmidt shot rounds of 73, 75, 71 and 73 across the championship to claim the men’s title for the second consecutive year, with an overall score of 292, while Hobbs recorded rounds of 83, 93, 80 and 83 for a 339 total.

The men’s intermediate champion was David Baker with rounds of 85, 82, 82 and 79 for a total of 328, while Shirley Sproule took out the women’s intermediate title with 96, 99, 103 and 97 for an overall score

of 395. B Grade championships went to Curtis Morson, men, and Sue Galpin, women, with respective scores of 89, 82, 86 and 83 for a total of 340, and 109, 106, 97 and 102 for a total of 414.

Men’s C Grade champion was Andrew Cartledge with 99, 96, 95 and 94 for a 384 total.

The women’s C Grade championship went to Liz Robertson, who shot rounds of 109, 114, 109 and 110 for a 442 total.

Nett score winners were Jeremy Schmidt and Sue Walter in A Grade. After applying handicaps, Schmidt shot rounds of 67, 71, 74 and 72 for an overall 284. Walter’s nett scores were 79, 82, 73 and 76 for a 310 overall.

Intermediate nett winners were Tony Neild and Trudy Parker, with respective scores of 71, 69, 76 and 76 for a total of 292, and 78, 75, 79 and 82 for a 314 total.

Anthony Henry took the men’s B Grade nett championship with consistent rounds, shooting 72, 72, 72 and 73 for an overall 289 total, while Kaye Smith won the women’s B Grade nett with 76, 78, 74 and 80, for 308 overall.

Smith also claimed the Puss Smith Trophy for the best nett score by a player over the age of 65.

Dean Johns and Joan Williams rounded out the list of winners with respective C Grade nett scores of 69, 78, 79, 84, 310 total, and 77, 78, 76, 80, 311 total.

TOP LEVEL: From left, Curtis Morson, David Baker, Casey Schmidt and Andrew Cartledge won the various sections of Horsham Golf Club men’s championships.

SUCCESS: Horsham Golf Club’s women winners, from left, Tracey Hobbs, Shirley Sproule, Sue Galpin and Liz Robertson.

OUT: Kristine Knight hits out of the bunker on the 18th hole. Picture: KAREN REES

Wimmera dominates

Horsham Greyhound Racing Club has been working overtime in the past fortnight, conducting four race meetings in 14 days, with fortnightly racing to continue throughout April in what is a great acknowledgement of faith by Greyhound Racing Victoria. Local trainers have been dominant in the past fortnight, with Garry George and Heather Baxter training multiple winners and Andrea Gurry training a rare first four. George, of Beulah, delivered an enormous return, with six winners including a treble last Friday and a double at Warrnambool the night prior.

George kicked it off on March 29 when Sweet Caviar fought off a multitude of challengers to hang on and win in best-ofthe-day time of 23.23 seconds.

George then ventured to Warrnambool on Thursday and delivered a double with Passing and Gravitational – the later breaking the magical 22-second barrier over the 390-metre trip. With a hot hand, George moved to Horsham the following day and delivered a treble.

Patriot James broke his maiden status in the first race on the card in 23.74 seconds, Sweet Caviar made it two wins in seven days delivering a near-on best-of-the-day

run of 23.33 seconds, and Alley Oop then delivered a third winner for George, crusing to victory over the 485-metre journey in 27.88 seconds – a great effort.

Heather Baxter, of Murtoa, delivered great results of her own to win the In the Mix on the March 29 race card, in a comfortable 23.57 seconds.

Baxter then joined in with George in dominating the April 5 race card with a winning double as Miss Etiquette blitzed her rivals with a great run of 23.49 seconds.

Aria’s Melody then brought up the double for the kennel, railing hard to win comfortably in the good time of 23.47 seconds.

It was great job by Heather and her trusty strapper Molly Parfett – well done to both.

Nhill’s Andrea Gurry produced two winners over the period, with Sutton’s Sky providing Dezi Carter with his first winner as a

YOUR LOCAL SPECIALISTS

Farming for the Future

TOP FOUR: From left,

Port with Andrea Gurry, Westar Commander with Ian Bibby, and Yanic Bale with Paul Matheson at Horsham Greyhound Racing Club.

handler. Sutton’s Sky swooped late to just get the nod from the judge in 23.61.

On the April 2 race card, Gurry produced a tremendous feat, with four runners engaged in the grade three and four event, Gurry’s runners filled the first four finishing positions. Fitzroy Bale took the chocolates in 23.37 seconds over Spring Port, Westar Commander and Yanic Bale in what was a great effort by Gurry.

Team Hartigan, of Horsham, rounded out the four meetings when Lightning Ziggy made superb use of an inside draw railing the ears off the competition winning comfortably in the good time of 23.47 seconds.

Racing will resume this week in a regular Tuesday timeslot followed by a Friday day meeting.

Squads developing

Horsham Amateur Basketball Association’s under-14 representative squads returned from Basketball Victoria Junior Country Championships without any silverware, but with valuable experience.

The junior boys and girls squads travelled to Mildura for the championships at the weekend, each eliminated in a quarter final.

The girls squad, under coach Jordyn Burke, beat Maffra 65-10, lost to Hamilton 52-29 and defeated Bellarine 41-36 on Saturday to be placed in the division one and two pool.

On Sunday, the team went down to Bendigo 62-22 and lost to Pakenham 60-56, before rebounding to beat Swan Hill 53-43.

The win earned them a quarter-final berth, where they went down to Wodonga in a thrilling 31-29 contest.

Rani Potter, Ruby Bethune, Luella Burke and Ivy Hofmaier were among Horsham’s standout players during the tournament, averaging 14, 10.3, 5.9 and five points per game, respectively.

The Hornets’ under-14 boys coached by Tim Wade, lost each of their games on

Saturday, going down to Mildura 90-22, Echuca 56-30 and Bendigo 67-32.

The losses saw them placed in division three and four, where they lost their first game to Bairnsdale 56-35 on Sunday before rebounding to beat Maryborough 36-30 and Surfcoast 44-31.

The boys squad was also on the wrong end of a thrilling quarter final, losing to Shepparton 36-35.

Chavi Sulic led the team, averaging 10 points a game, with Xavier Skurrie, 6.1, Baxta Wade, 4.9 and Nate Bacon, four, also playing key roles.

Horsham also celebrated 10 of its players being named to Basketball Victoria’s Future Development Program.

Nate Bacon, Noah Cook, Xavier Skurrie, Chavi Sulic, Elliot Tippett, Baxta Wade, Ruby Bethune, Luella Burke, Lexi Kleinitz and Rani Potter were all picked for the under-14 program, which aims to develop talented junior players from across the state.

The association will conclude its season with a junior presentation night on April 19 and its annual meeting on April 28.

Winner Fitzroy Bale with Dezi Carter, Spring

Stawell claims title

Stawell Bowling Club has earned bragging rights across its Wimmera rivals after taking out the 2023-24 Wimmera Bowls Region weekend pennant championship on Saturday.

Played in Stawell, the championship pitted winners of the Wimmera Bowls Region’s four playing areas against each other in a round-robin tournament.

Stawell represented the Grampians Playing Area, while Horsham Golf was the Wimmera Playing Area champion, Wedderburn competed for the North Central Playing Area and Warracknabeal represented the North Wimmera Playing Area.

Round one of the tournament saw Stawell defeat Wedderburn 2-51 to 1-38, while Horsham Golf downed

Warracknabeal 2-47 to 1-36.

Warracknabeal bounced back in the second round to beat Stawell 2-41 to 1-34, and Horsham Golf slipped up against Wedderburn, which won 2-41 to 1-32.

With each team recording a win and a loss in the first two rounds, Stawell stepped up in the final round to defeat Horsham Golf 2-53 to 1-33.

Warracknabeal defeated Wedderburn 2-43 to 1-41 in a thrilling contest that came down to the final end, but Stawell’s superior point differential saw it claim the championship.

Representing Stawell were: Keith

FOCUS: Amy Hodgetts in action for Stawell, which won the Wimmera Bowls Region weekend pennant championship on Saturday. For more pictures, visit theweeklyadvertiser.com.au. Picture: KAREN REES

Brilliant, Rob Nicholson, Robert McGregor, skip Andrew Cray and Louis Martin; Glenda Cameron, Robin Austerberry, Ellen Werry and skip Donald Austerberry; and Ivan McDonald, Amy Hodgetts, Robert

Maconachie and skip Andrew Sharp. Stawell will now represent the Wimmera Bowls Region at the Bowls Victoria Champion of State Pennant tournament in Moama next month.

BOWERS CHIROPRACTIC CENTRE

Do kids need Chiropractic Care? Well children are subject to the same forces that adults are, however their bodies can react very differently. An adjustment on a child or infant is very different to adjusting an adult and the amount of force used when adjusting a child or infant is varied depending on the age and development of the child. E.g. The amount of pressure to adjust an infant is the about the same pressure you would gently pressure you would use on your eyeball. Techniques are very different.

A lot more mobilisation techniques in specific directions are used. Neither a child nor an infant can tell you exactly what is going on so specialised assessing techniques are used and as a Chiropractor and a number of years in practice, I did 2 yrs extra study to attain my Grad Dip in Chiropactic Pediatric Care to make sure little ones are well cared for.

I clearly remember one first time Mum coming to see me because she was told, that her 3 week old baby didn’t like breast feeding. The first thing I assured her of was that her baby did indeed like and needed to be breast-fed if at all possible, because it gives the baby the best start in life. I assessed the child and observed that he couldn’t turn his neck comfortably to attach and he would arch and pull off in frustration. So, a hungry baby, an anxious Mum and a very upsetting situation for them. With 3 adjustments the baby was back to being fully breast-fed and Mum didn’t feel like a failure.

SUCCESS: Horsham City bowlers were successful at regional titles and will now play in the Victorian State Midweek Pennant Championships.

City bowlers off to state final

Horsham City Bowling Club’s midweek pennant victors won their way to the Championship of State Pennant after winning the regional title at Warracknabeal last week.

The team will now go into the final 16 in Victoria to be played at Moama Bowling Club.

The regional title was contested by premiers from the following: Grampians playing area – Chalambar Bowls Club; Northern Wimmera playing area – Rainbow Bowling Club; North Central playing area – Wedderburn Bowls Club; and Wimmera playing area –Horsham City.

In the first game against Rainbow, Horsham City won 42 shots to 35 with the John Lehmann rink of Bev Bretag, Marie Lehmann and Hux Mitchell recording a 22 shots to eight win.

The last game against the unbeaten team from Grampians, Chalambar, was the closest of the day with Horsham City running out winners by only three shots, 43 to 40.

The Gary Knight team of Wayne Gray, Helen Roll and Colin Morrell held their cool to record a 15 shots to 12 win.

The Horsham City bowlers will compete in the state championship at Moama on May 6 and 7 to determine the Victorian State Midweek Pennant Champions.

Club president Colin Morrell said it was an amazing effort by the midweek team and wished them good bowling at Moama.

In the second game against the North Central winners Wedderburn, City won 43 shots to 35, with the Geoff Inglis team of Betty Cozens, Elsie Bardell and Derek Ballinger recording the best win, 21 shots to seven.

Dr. Pauline Walsh

B. Clinc Sci

B. App. Sci (Chiropractic), DACCP

Ready for season start

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

After a summer full of intrigue and change, the Horsham District Football Netball League is finally ready to kick off its 2024 season.

The biggest story of the off-season was the withdrawal of last year’s senior football grand finalist JeparitRainbow.

The Storm merged with Southern Mallee Giants to form the new Southern Mallee Thunder, which will compete in the Wimmera league. The move reduced the number of teams in the Horsham District competition from 12 to 11, and league chair Rosemary Langley said it would see the reintroduction of a weekly bye.

“We haven’t had a bye for several years, so it will be interesting to see how teams adjust to that,” she said.

Langley said some clubs had struggled to fill teams across all grades of football and netball, but praised them for their willingness to work together to find solutions that would allow as many players as possible to participate.

She said the collaboration between Swifts and Taylors Lake to field an under-17 football team, known as the Taylor Swifts, was an excellent example of clubs working together to find the best outcome.

“That’s something new, although

we might have to check on some copyright issues with the name,” she joked.

“It is a good way to make sure everyone is getting a game.

“That’s the reality of our population base and our communities. We have to look at different options, and full marks to those clubs for being prepared to have a go at it.”

Langley said the senior football season would be an interesting one, with Harrow-Balmoral looking to defend its premiership while challengers such as 2022 premier Rupanyup and rising young team Noradjuha-Quantong attempt to reel them in.

Round one will kick off with a highly-anticipated match between the Bombers and Roos at Quantong Recreation Reserve.

Both coaches said they were keen to use the contest as an early measuring stick.

“It’s a massive round one for us. If we’d made the grand final last year they would have been our match-up, and we missed out,” NoradjuhaQuantong coach Damian Cameron said.

“It’s hard not having played much footy to play them in round one, but if we can come in and have a good performance against HarrowBalmoral, it will give us a lot of confidence moving into the first part of the season.”

Harrow-Balmoral coach Jai Thompson echoed Cameron’s sentiments.

“They’re a really impressive team and I think they’re going to be right up there in terms of our competition for the year, so to get them in round one when everything is fresh, it’ll be a really good test for us to see where we’re at,” he said.

“They’ve got a lot of players in that mid-20s age bracket who are going to improve naturally with another year together.”

Other games include Taylors Lake versus Edenhope-Apsley at Dock Lake Reserve, Natimuk United travel to take on Kaniva-Leeor United, Swifts on the road against Kalkee, Pimpinio are at home to Laharum, while Rupanyup has a bye.

Langley said she expected this year’s A Grade netball competition to be more open after reigning premier Edenhope-Apsley lost several key players.

“At this stage I’m tipping Rupanyup and Laharum to be the top of the tree,” she said.

“Edenhope-Apsley has lost a few players, so it will be interesting to see how they rebuild. They had a pretty amazing team last year, and I wouldn’t be surprised if they still find a few to help them out.

“Kalkee was good and solid last year, so I’d expect them to be up there again as well.”

Olympian takes reins

Horsham Pony Club’s super clinic gave riders the opportunity to receive tutelage from Olympic gold medallist Wendy Schaeffer at the weekend.

Thirty riders from across the state participated in three categories of equestrian events with tutors Mal Maytom, show jumping; Heather Paix, dressage; and Ms Schaeffer, cross country.

President Emelia Sudholz said the club was fortunate to have three talented and experienced coaches to work with riders.

“We also had Wendy as our guest speaker at a dinner on Saturday night, to speak about her journey leading up to the Olympics, and to what she’s doing now,” she said.

Ms Schaeffer was successful at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics at 21 years

of age, the youngest woman to win equestrian gold. She also finished as the leading rider in the Australian team of world class equestrians, becoming part of the most successful team ever.

“Wendy had her medal with her. To be able to hold a gold medal was incredible,” Ms Sudholz said.

Ms Sudholz said the club had installed jumps at its Riverside home, but was looking for sponsors to support the completion of its cross country course.

“We are fundraising and seeking sponsorship. We will put sponsors’ signs on the jumps, so they will be quite prominent,” she said.

The club has 17 members and hosts 120 visiting riders each year at monthly rallies, clinics, competitions and camps.

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Wendy Schaeffer

Picture: KAREN REES

Volleyball teams return to courts

BY DAVID BERRY

With the school holidays all but over Volleyball Horsham’s summer season resumes on Monday night with a clear run for the remainder of the season.

The juniors will fire up first with Von Steiger Kids and HTLC Tigers in Junior B set for a close game. Drew and Jack Armstrong are playing well for the Von Steiger Kids, while Penny Eagle and Cassara Rowan are showing good form for the Lutheran team.

Mia and Lacy Perry will be keen to keep their Phantoms in touch with the top spot on the ladder when they square off against an improving Stars team. Emily Johns and Brynn Couch are both showing good skills for the Stars team. In the Junior A competition, the game of the night features first up when the two HTLC teams go toe-to-toe.

The Tigers are sitting pretty on top of the table with Jack Kelly and Fletcher Hawken in good touch before the break. But they will need to be as the Thorns team, with Hannah Gabbe and Bonnie Grieger leading the way, will be a tough match up.

In the A Reserve competition, the final game of the night sees the-top-of-the-table clash between Rangers and Heidelberg.

Rangers are undefeated so far and have Ronan Garth-Lindsay and Ishan Thoy playing good consistent volleyball, but they will face off against a Heidelberg team who is improving as each game goes by.

Heidelberg will welcome back key big man David Johns and the experienced Delaney Bray into a team that is playing good volleyball. With all teams at least having registered a win in the season to date, all games in this grade are closely fought and highly entertaining.

In C grade, another top-of-the-table clash sees KFC Black take on stablemate KFC White. Nathan Bennet is in good touch for the black team while Josh Russell is ever consistent for the white team.

Black’s fortunes rest on the availability of Leah Eilola who is in great touch.

Murtoa Railway will be out to break their duck when they do battle with the entertaining Von Steiger Filos, while the final game the Glam Slammers will also be looking to get onto the winner’s list when they do battle with KFC Red.

Championships selection trials

Volleyball Horsham is gearing up for another Country Championships campaign and members are reminded that for the next two Tuesday

nights, selection trials will be at St Brigid’s College stadium between 7.30pm to 9pm.

The association is looking to be represented across all three divisions of men and women at this year’s championships at the Latrobe Valley.

Ararat competition

The Ararat competition is progressing nicely with eight teams competing each Thursday night at the Ararat Fitness Centre.

In the Blue Group, the Bula Brothers are showing good form being well lead by Asaeli and newcomer Moses, while Falcons are hot on their heels.

In the Red Group, the Pink Panthers are taking all before them with Lenda and Frannie leading the way.

There is still room for individuals to participate, so just pop into the fitness centre at 6.30pm on Thursday nights for a game.

On Anzac Day, a Lightning Spike Challenge between the Volleyball Horsham A grade teams and Ararat Red Group teams is being planned, which will be a good way for both competitions to test each other and build on an already strong connection, making it stronger.

Phantoms premier teams

Phantoms premier one teams will open their Victorian Volleyball League season on Saturday at the State Volleyball Centre.

The premier one men will do battle with Maroondah Cobras at 12.30pm, while the premier one women will look for a dream start when they face VIP Irizar at 2.30pm.

The premier one men have been buoyed by the availability of former Volleyroo Paul Sanderson, who has overcome an arm injury, as well as the return of promising young star Scott Johnson, who has transferred back to the club from Monash.

The team will also welcome back Nick Adamson, who has transferred from Renegades and Adrian Fox from Mildura, while Zac Santamaria will assume the number one setting duties as he returns to the top competition.

Tamikah Dockrill will take over the captain’s duties for the premier one women’s team, and if their impressive pre-season form is any indication, they should make short work of VIP Irizar. Paige Hemley’s premier two women’s team will look to bounce back from two five-set defeats last week when they take on Eastside Hawks, while Jack Snowden’s state league two men will do likewise when they play a double header against Mazenod.

Jumping for joy

Horsham Pony Club hosted a super clinic at the weekend, with 30 riders from across the state receiving tutelage from experienced equestrian competitors including Olympic gold medallist Wendy Schaeffer. Pictured is Christina Lloyd at a new water jump that is part of the start of upgrades at the Riverside site.

Picture: KAREN REES