RUNNING FOR A CAUSE:
Despite a foggy start to the day, the Horsham Mother’s Day Classic on Sunday attracted hundreds of runners, including Tansie Baker, 3, who fittingly dressed in pink for the breast and ovarian cancer fundraiser. For more pictures, see page 29.
An extra 58 police officers have begun deployments across Wimmera stations.
As part of the 2023–2024 Victoria Police Corporate Plan, an additional 502 police officers and an extra 50 protective services officers will be deployed across the state.
The breakdown of the extra 58 police officers across western region division four include: Horsham 12; Ararat 10; Stawell 10; St Arnaud seven; Warracknabeal three; Halls Gap three; Kaniva two; Dimboola two; Edenhope two.
Ararat will also gain one extra senior sergeant, with Liam McMahon join-
ing Elissa Smith. There will now be two senior sergeants based at Stawell, with Terry Hill stepping into one role, while the other is being advertised.
At Horsham, the number of senior sergeants will increase from two to three.
Acting Superintendent Jo Janes said having two senior sergeants at Ararat and Stawell was ‘unprecedented’.
“It means the stations will be better serviced, so the community will see that,” she said.
“If police officers are on a rest day or night duty, there was previously a gap, but that now no longer exists so that’s a better outcome for the community.”
Act Superintendent Janes said the community would notice the increase
in police numbers across the region.
“There will be more police on the roads and more police visible to the community,” she said.
“They will be in a position to be able to respond to local needs more quickly.”
Act Superintendent Janes said she was pleased the additional police resources would be spread across the division – not just in major localities.
“At St Arnaud, they will also add a sergeant to their ranks and overall it nearly doubles the amount of police they have there,” she said.
“We’re excited to be welcoming the new members. They’ve already begun to roll out but won’t be fully in place until the end of the year.”
Act Superintendent Janes said the extra police would be deployed for community policing, with a traffic focus.
“That means they’ll be more available for operations and just generally pulling cars over,” she said.
Victoria Police has shifted its recruitment policy to allow people living in regional areas the opportunity to return to their home soon after completing their training.
Prior to starting 31 weeks of training at the Victoria Police Academy, recruits can choose a preferred work location and, after completing training, could be placed in that chosen special category location. They must complete two years of
service at the location before transferring to another position or expressing interest in a general duties position, which means they are exempt from a ballot transfer process.
“Now is as good a time as any to join Victoria Police,” Act Superintendent Janes said.
“If you live in a regional area you can apply to come back – you no longer have to do a stint in Melbourne for two years.
“It means young people can stay closer to home or those with young families can return home, whereas before you could be moved anywhere in the state.”
With V/Line’s capped $10 fares applicable on the Overland, private operator Journey Beyond Rail has needed to add more carriages to the Melbourne-Adelaide service as travellers take advantage of the cheap tickets.
However, with toilets at the Horsham Station closed indefinitely, the Council has been peppered with complaints from frustrated passengers.
The fact that the trains do not always run on time, and more people are spending more time at the station, exacerbates the problem.
DTP is responsible for transport services in Victoria.
Community members are invited to contribute their ideas, feedback, and lived experiences to help develop the Horsham and Natimuk Housing Diversity and Affordability Strategy.
This initiative aims to develop a strategy to help address housing needs and improve affordability in the region.
Community drop-in sessions are scheduled at various locations.
Horsham Civic Centre: 16 May, 4.30pm - 6.30pm Haven Hall: 17 May, 12pm - 2pm
NC2 Former Natimuk Shire Office: 17 May, 4.30pm - 6.30pm
Horsham Library Mibus Centre: 18 May, 10am - 1pm
These initiatives offer a platform for community members to voice their opinions and contribute to the development of the Horsham and Natimuk Housing Diversity and Affordability Strategy.
Mayor Robyn Gulline said HRCC had been in contact with the department as it redirects the criticism.
“As the Overland continues to grow in popularity, it is hoped that the toilets can be made available to help make the journey more comfortable for all passengers,” Cr Gulline said.
“We think this is a necessary step towards improving the overall experience for Overland users and ensuring that the service meets the needs of the community.”
The train, which runs twice a week, stops in Horsham at 2.01pm on Sundays, 12.51pm Mondays, 1.37pm Thursdays, and 1pm Fridays, picking up and setting down passengers.
“Council has proposed that the DoT makes the toilets available between the hours of 12.30pm to 2.30pm, four days a week,” Cr Gulline said.
“This would allow passengers to access the facilities either before boarding or upon exiting the train.”
The Wimmera lost its V/Line train services in 1993 and the Victorian Government-funded Overland has been the only regular passenger train since.
Rather than travelling directly to Melbourne, it follows the western standard gauge via Geelong before terminating at Southern Cross Station.
“We are incredibly grateful for the state government’s significant contribution to keep the Overland running,” Cr Gulline said.
“The recent subsidisation of ticket prices has meant that more carriages have been added to the train, meeting the increased demand from our community. This service has become a lifeline for many, with adults now able to travel to Melbourne for as little as $10.”
“We look forward to working closely with the DTP to ensure these improvements are implemented swiftly. Our community deserves a service that is not only affordable and efficient but also comfortable and convenient,” she said.
A public meeting is to be held at the Horsham Motorcycle Club Rooms on Saturday 25 May, starting at 10am.
The meeting is to nominate no less than three or no more than nine persons as the Committee of Management for the Dooen Recreation Reserve for a term of three years. The current committee’s term will expire on 31 May.
Further information may be obtained by contacting your local Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action office or at the meeting.
For further enquiries, please contact Secretary Laurie Pearson on 0418338056.
The new-look Station Youth Centre in Horsham is now open, with the second stage of improvement works reaching completion.
Landscaping has been finished at the front of the site, complementing the stage one work completed at the rear in 2021.
New additions include a barbecue and shelter, two lawn areas, concrete seating, bike hoops and trees.
The enhancements mark a significant milestone in Council’s commitment to providing safe and inclusive spaces for the municipality’s youth.
HRCC's grant program now open
HRCC's Community Event Grants Program is now open, offering a significant boost to not-forprofit groups in the municipality.
Funding guidelines
The maximum allocation per organisation is $10,000. Most successful applications are between $500 and $5,000.
Who can apply?
To be eligible for the HRCC Community Event Grants Program, you must:
• Be a not-for-profit group
• Be incorporated or have an auspice body
• Have public liability insurance covering your event
• The event must be held within the HRCC municipality.
First of two rounds
There are two event funding rounds this year. The first assessment round will consider applications received by 31 May 2024, with the grant notification date set for 30 June. The second round will assess applications received by 30 November 2024, with grant notifications due in January 2025.
ADimboola man has been remanded in custody following an aggravated home invasion and non-fatal shooting at Clear Lake last week.
Toni-Alan Troon, 31, appeared at the Horsham Magistrate’s Court yesterday after being charged with home invasion, aggravated burglary and various assault charges.
Detectives from the Armed Crime
Squad were assisted by the Special Operations Group, Fugitive Squad and Horsham Crime Investigation Unit in the arrest of Troon and another man at an Albert Street, Horsham home late Monday afternoon.
A 35-year-old Horsham man, who was also inside the premises, initially refused to leave during negotiations with police.
After an hour, he exited the premises and surrendered before attempting to
flee. He was subsequently arrested and police deployed a taser during the arrest.
The man was conveyed to hospital to be treated for non-life-threatening injuries, where he remains under police guard.
Troon was remanded on Monday night to appear at court yesterday.
Investigators also seized three firearms from a Dimboola address.
The arrests follow an incident on
Thursday when emergency services were called to a Harrow-Clear Lake Road property at about 4pm, following reports a man had been shot.
A 43-year-old man sustained nonlife-threatening injuries and was airlifted to hospital.
A woman in her 40s was not physically injured during the incident.
Police believe the parties involved are known to each other.
A passion for helping and surplus clothing stock has resulted in a happy coincidence enabling a volunteer Horsham team to continue assisting children in need via the Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child project.
When Linda Guthridge closed her Edenhope clothing store Melindari Fashions after 25 years, she had a lot of leftover items.
Mrs Guthridge said until recently, they were stored in a shipping container.
“I decided to set up a pop-up shop at home to sell the items,” she said.
“We’ll use the proceeds to cover the
postage of the packed shoeboxes we are sending overseas,” she said.
Mrs Guthridge, along with volunteers Arlene Duthie and Ann Rohde, are working for the Operation Christmas Child project to deliver shoeboxes packed with small toys, hygiene items and school supplies to children in areas of conflict and crisis around the world.
“We are lucky – a lot of local businesses and groups know what we do and donate items to us,” Mrs Guthridge said.
“We’ve had knitted and sewn items, pencil cases, bags, stationery and toys
donated, and I’ve bought a lot of things myself – it’s my passion – but I’ve stopped keeping the receipts.”
Mrs Guthridge said she had seen videos of children receiving their boxes.
“It’s amazing, the kids we’re reaching – you can see the love on their faces,” she said.
“They get their box, they dance around it, they kiss it and they haven’t even opened it yet. They’re just so pleased to receive something.”
Illegal rubbish dumping is on the rise in the Horsham municipality and offenders are being asked to think before they act.
Eight cubic metres of waste, mostly car parts, was dumped last week on the outskirts of Horsham.
A car engine and transmissions were found on Dooen South Road, while four separate loads of rubbish were dumped on Aerodrome Road.
Horsham Rural City Council has also reported Riley Road, Remlaw Road, and Flacks Road as being used as dumping grounds.
Council chief executive Sunil Bhalla said council used methods to catch offenders, including patrols of known hotspots, following up leads from the public and the use of carefully placed cameras.
“We have a good track record of catching those people who choose to use our natural areas as their personal rubbish dump,” he said.
“The cost of doing the right thing and taking your rubbish to the transfer station is far cheaper than receiving a fine for illegal dumping, particularly as fines can run into the thousands of dollars.
“In the recent case, the offender would have actually made several hundred dollars from selling the scrap car parts to metal recyclers.”
Rubbish dumping is worsening in most parts of Australia, with transfer station fees being an often-used excuse.
“Ironically, many of the items we see dumped – such as electronics, batteries, paint, and scrap metal –can actually be recycled for free at the council’s waste management facilities,” Mr Bhalla said.
In addition to being unsightly and disrespectful, dumped rubbish can introduce new fire hazards, cause environmental contamination, and incur large clean-up fees.
The dumping also causes road obstructions, creating a significant and unnecessary traffic risk.
Mrs Guthridge’s home at 7 Evans Way, Horsham, is open for clothing purchases from 10am until 6pm, Monday to Friday.
“People are more than welcome to come and have a look. We have clothing in sizes eight to 24 in men’s and women’s, from work wear to evening wear, in both summer and winter styles,” she said.
Brands include Yarra Trail, Jillian, Sportswave, Givoni and Orientique.
The group has been raising money for Operation Christmas Child for about 10 years through dedicated sales at Melindari Fashions and events such as the Wimmera Machinery Field Days.
Mr Bhalla said cleaning up the rubbish was a drain on council resources.
“There are many other things the community would rather our staff spend their time doing,” he said. Rubbish dumpers face a maximum fine of $46,164.
Anyone with information about the Dooen South Road dumping, including people who prefer to remain anonymous, can contact the council on 5382 9777.
N
orthern Grampians Shire
Council has hit out at Transmission Company Victoria for its lack of communication with landowners as it undertakes field surveys along the proposed VNI West draft corridor.
TCV initiated a geotech drilling program in the municipality in early May, but halted drilling earlier this month before attempting to restart on Monday.
About 50 farmers from Callawadda, Greens Creek, Wallalloo, Gre Gre, Marnoo and Traynors Lagoon stopped geo technicians setting up drilling rigs, with police called to the clash.
The geotech drilling program will assist TCV to develop an understanding of environmental factors such as flora and fauna, as well as geological characteristics in the area.
The Victoria to New South Wales Interconnector West project is a proposed 500-kilovolt double-circuit transmission line connecting highvoltage electricity grids, using clean, low-cost electricity from renewable energy zones in both states.
Surplus items from Dimboola’s disused Allambi Elderly Peoples Home hostel will go under the hammer at a public auction on Sunday.
Allambi committee of management vice chair Ann Falkingham said the proceeds of the auction would fund maintenance of the independent units.
“The sale of all the furniture, goods and chattels from the hostel will go towards the upkeep of the 12 independent-living single-bedroom units that we manage still,” she said.
“The units are always fully occupied, and we have a waiting list – in fact, someone is coming today to have a look.”
Beds, tables, kitchen items, a piano, chairs, and paintings by late Dimboola artist and doctor Alister Hinchley will be auctioned.
“We have located six of Dr Hinchley’s paintings – four will be auctioned and two will be raffled,” Mrs Falkingham said.
Dr Hinchley, who has a hospital wing and a primary school sports house named in his honour, was a general practitioner at Dimboola for 50 years after arriving with his family in 1939.
The transmission line will run from Bulgana, east of Great Western, and travel through Northern Grampians, Buloke and Gannawarra shires to Dinawan terminal station, west of Wagga in NSW.
TCV announced a draft two-kilometre-wide corridor in October, and is currently working to narrow the corridor to a preferred easement of about 100 metres.
Northern Grampians Shire Council chief executive Brent McAlister said the council was concerned about the ‘extremely poor’ communication with adjoining farmers about the drilling.
“While we did approve a Works Within Road Reserve Permit given our statutory obligations, we are concerned with the poor communication with local farmers about why this was occurring as it gives the impression that the VNI West transmission line is a done deal,” he said.
“As a municipal authority, we have a road authority responsibility, and it would not be appropriate for us to treat a permit application as anything more than a works site on the side of the road in our assessment of it.
“This is a separate matter to our significant concerns regarding the transmission line corridor; in this matter we feel that there is a lot lacking from the perspective of the farmers on the ground. It is a necessity for enhanced efforts to ensure transparent and timely communication, along with targeted engagement with local stakeholders on matters affecting the community by TCV.”
Northern Grampians mayor Rob Haswell also made it clear that councillors were standing with farmers.
“The transformation of the energy sector in Australia is a complex matter and one that has landed squarely on our agenda,” he said.
“What is clear for us, is the VNI West line tentatively marked on the map of Victoria represents very real infrastructure constructed along tracts of land within the bounds of our shire.
“The decisions and actions related to this pathway will have a significant impact on real people, land and livelihoods, as this is front of mind at all times for both myself and councillors.
“We have and will continue to advocate for community impacts to be clearly identified and mitigated, and we will also continue to advocate for benefit sharing and alignment with community needs.”
Cr Haswell said the council would act as a link between the community, renewable energy proponents and government to ensure renewable energy-related impacts were mitigated.
“We strongly support our farming communities and advocate to protect our agricultural industry and unique natural values,” he said.
“We set expectations for industry and other levels of government to meaningfully engage our community early, with clarity and respect.
“We engage early and meaningfully with industry and government on projects in the shire and we advocate for community impacts to be clearly identified and mitigated, as well as for benefit sharing and alignment with community needs.”
TCV spokesperson Claire Cass said public-land investigations to determine soil conditions and rock features across the VNI West draft corridor
“He was a keen artist, he enjoyed painting and sketching in his spare time,” Mrs Falkingham said.
The hostel has been closed for more than a year, with no clear purpose for the building’s future.
Allambi leaders undertook a feasibility study at the site, with a view to remodel the hostel into units, but costs were high.
“We are a not-for-profit, commu-
nity organisation,” Mrs Falkingham said.
“The cost would be in the millions to remodel.
“Potentially we could put in more units one day, we have land behind Allambi that is vacant.”
Part of the hostel will be open on auction day so people can view items prior to the sale, and allow people to reminisce.
began in March and were almost complete.
Ms Cass said the work was a part of ongoing field surveys and investigations that began in October to further refine the draft corridor.
“Notification of upcoming survey activity is provided to landholders adjacent to work zones by their dedicated landholder liaisons through their preferred method of contact,” she said.
“This program of survey work has been advertised in newspapers throughout the draft corridor over several months, promoted on our website and social media channels, and discussed at our recent community events.
“TCV has worked with councils to obtain permits for these surveys on public land.
“As these geotechnical investigations draw to a close, TCV would like to thank communities and landholders for their patience and understanding regarding those works.”
For more information, people can visit www.transmissionvictoria. com.au/about/planned-field-surveyactivities.
WorksSafe Victoria has charged a Crowlands farm business following the death of a man in 2022.
Price Agricultural Pty Ltd was listed to appear at a Ballarat Magistrates’ Court hearing yesterday afternoon in relation to the death of 54-year-old farmer Damien Browne.
Mr Browne, a Price Agricultural customer, was using the company’s telehandler to unload seed oats from a bulka bag into a grouper bin on his truck when the bag fell from the telehandler’s tynes and crushed him.
WorkSafe Victoria charged Price Agricultural with a single count of failing to ensure that a workplace under its management and control was safe and without risks to health.
Wool bales stolen
“There’s a lot of history here for many local people,” Mrs Falkingham said.
“I was talking to Lorraine Roberts recently – her grandmother was the first woman to live in Allambi.”
The auction will begin at 10am on Sunday, with viewing from 9am, at Allambi, Anderson Street, Dimboola.
– Bronwyn Hastings
Police are investigating two incidents relating to theft of wool bales. The first was at Bulgana on May 1 where a dark-coloured Holden Commodore station wagon was seen in the area on the day. The second incident was at Willaura, where four bales were stolen between April 18 and 25. Police believe more than one person is involved given the weight of the bales. People with information should call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
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 $2,563 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 2025. Visit vic.gov.au/kinder
Horsham
Rural City Coun-
cil mayor Robyn Gulline is encouraging ratepayers to look closely at their annual rates bills this year, with the property services levy set to increase.
Details in the 2024-25 State Budget, announced last week, show that from July, the median residential property owner will pay an additional $35, while primary production properties face a $150 rise.
The State Government is asking council ratepayers to contribute more to the state’s finances through an increase in the fire services property levy.
Cr Gulline said the government had also increased its landfill levy, meaning councils would need to charge residents more for waste services.
“Unfortunately, we know that many of our residents will get their rates notices and only look at the bottom line, without realising there are State Government-imposed charges built in
that councils cannot control,” she said.
“It’s basically cost shifting onto local government, and that has been happening more and more lately.”
Cr Gulline said while she understood cuts had to be made in order to manage the state’s rising debt, it was disappointing to see the Wimmera largely missed out again.
“I was also disappointed to see cuts made to mental health funding. The lack of service provision for mental health is a huge issue in our region,” she said.
“Frustratingly, there was no money to finish the Western Highway duplication east of Ararat, which is a key priority for our part of the state.
“In another blow for the country municipalities, the Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund has not been reinstated. In Horsham, we have used that particular funding program to help pay for recent projects such as the Hamilton Street Bridge and the riverfront development.”
Cr Gulline said the council would
continue to work with and advocate to the government to ensure regional Victorians were not left behind.
“I acknowledge the financial challenge of balancing budgets when the cost of everything is going up,” she said.
“Council is facing similar challenges balancing our budget, delivering the goods and services that our community needs and expects, while containing costs that are outpacing our ratecapped revenue raising capacity.”
Modest
Regional Cities Victoria, RCV, chair Shane Sali described the state Budget as modest for regional Victoria.
Regional Cities Victoria comprises the 10 largest regional cities in Victoria, including Horsham.
“It’s a Budget that does what it has to, but not necessarily what it needs to for regional Victoria,” he said.
“There’s a lot we’ve been asked to look back on, but not that much to look forward to.”
SATURDAY NIGHT LIGHTS: Photographers across the country aimed skyward during the weekend for geomagnetic storm event Aurora Australis, the first in more than 20 years. The aurora was visible at low-latitude locations, including Victoria, Tasmania and southern New South Wales, and as far north as Mackay, Queensland. Amateur photographer Tim Nuske, of Horsham, captured the image above at 9.24pm at Toolondo, using his Canon EOS R50 on a 30-second exposure.
Hindmarsh Shire Youth Council will host its first youth-focused event of the year at Dimboola – a ’90sthemed disco.
For youth aged 12 years and older, attendees are encouraged to dress to the theme to celebrate all the era offered.
Return buses will run from Nhill, Rainbow and Jeparit, but registrations to travel must be received by 5pm on May 29.
The event, from 6.30pm until 9.30pm on Friday, May 31, will be at Dimboola Memorial Secondary College.
People can register for the event by visiting https://form.jotform. com/241077924746868.
People can call Hindmarsh Shire Council’s community development and youth officer on 5391 4444 or email youth@hindmarsh.vic.gov.au for more information.
Cr Sali said RCV was concerned about the lack of future investment opportunities in community infrastructure needed to meet the growing number of people who wanted to live and work in regional Victoria.
“We are disappointed the Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund has not been reinstated, because for regional Victoria there is no pathway for future projects beyond the existing pipeline currently under construction,” he said.
“Local infrastructure projects are a vital part of any regional community.”
Rural Councils Victoria chair MaryAnn Brown said the government’s sensible approach to the Budget left gaps in funding.
“With limited programs to support other upgrades it will be local councils that will be left to fill the gap in the provision of community services,” she said.
“The Budget is aimed at regional cities and metropolitan Melbourne. We had hoped it would offer more support for rural communities.”
Cr Brown said road funding needed a fresh approach.
“We welcome the statewide spend of $964-million on road maintenance – in particular the $62-million for upgrades to regional roads – but this is not enough to address the significant problems across the rural road network,” she said.
“There is more to do to make rural roads fit for purpose and growth.
“It is becoming increasingly apparent the current way we are funding roads, particularly in rural and regional areas, no longer works.
“Road funding shouldn’t be piecemeal. Roads are vital to the economy and to communities and are too often an afterthought.
“We need new thinking around roads funding to create innovative ways to fund road building and road repair.
“Our communities’ rate bases are too small to maintain roads to the standards needed to ensure they are capable of handling heavy freight and keep vehicle occupants safe.”
Hindmarsh Shire Libraries has launched the Pieces of You project, a jigsaw puzzle exhibition featuring photographs of the municipality’s people and places.
On show at the Dimboola library until Friday, May 17 as prints and jigsaw puzzles, photographer Craig Holloway’s work includes rural scenes, people, places of interest and towns.
Some of the jigsaw puzzles will be
available for individuals and groups to borrow from the shire’s libraries at Dimboola, Jeparit, Nhill and Rainbow.
There will also be dedicated spaces at each library for people to collaboratively complete the puzzles.
The project was developed by Hindmarsh Shire Libraries with funding from Public Libraries Victoria and State Library Victoria.
Council on behalf of Neoen Australia is now calling for three interested community members to be involved in the Bulgana Green Power Hub (BGPH) Community Benefit Fund Advisory Group
Are you a person who has a passion for empowering and enabling community groups to be innovative, creative, and sustainable? If so, being a BGPH Community Benefit Fund Advisory Group member is a fantastic opportunity
Your role as a group member is to be responsible for ensuring that funds committed by Neoen Australia to support community groups and grow the capacity of the region are allocated in a consistent fair and transparent manner
Applications are now open and close on 31 May
You can find more information at https://bit ly/4btnKom or contact Rachel Whittaker for an expression of interest form on 03 5358 0512 or rachel whittaker@ngshire vic gov au
The current term for the Queen Mary Botanic Gardens Advisory Group will conclude shortly and Council is currently seeking nominations from community members or re-nominations from current members to join the Queen Mary Botanic Gardens Advisory Group
Nominations close Wednesday 12 June 2024
Evaluation criteria: Possess a sound knowledge of the local area and recent involvement in the local community
Ability to represent issues impacting the local community concerning the management of the requirements of the gardens
Demonstrate relevant experience in the management of the botanic gardens and cultural heritage values
Previous experience in working with committees or groups will be well regarded but not essential
Nominations to join the group are to be sent to heath pohl@ngshire vic gov au or for further information contact Heath Pohl on 03 5358 8700
Works commenced Monday 13 May on the safety upgrade project at the Sloane and Patrick Street Stawell intersection as part of the fully funded Federal Black Spot Program
Works involve installing new drainage, ke footpath to improve vehicle visibility and pedestrian safety at the intersection The will take around 6-8 weeks to complete, p weather conditions There will be traffic d in place on Sloane Street at times throug the works
If you have any queries please contact N Murphy or Mark Walker on 03 5358 8700
News via the council website at www.ngshire.vic.gov.au/latestnews
June Council Meeting Location
The 3 June Council Meeting scheduled to be held in the Council Chamber, Stawell will now be held at 12 30pm in the Perry Room St Arnaud Town Hall
The change of location is due to NBN works being carried out in St Arnaud at the time of the May Council Meeting which was moved to Stawell
A link to view the meeting online will be available on council s website at www ngshire vic gov au/ Council/Council-Meetings
Nearly $700,000 of unspent Federal Government money will go towards six projects across Northern Grampians Shire due to be completed in the next 13 months.
The council was eligible for more than $2.9-million of federal funding under phase four of the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, which was designed to help local governments across Australia complete priority infrastructure projects.
The Federal Government’s only stipulation for the funding was a requirement that projects be completed by the end of the 2024-25 financial year.
The council allocated $2,235,036 of the funding in September last year, but was left with a balance of $694,675 when potential projects required additional design and scoping, putting them beyond the completion deadline of July 2025.
Cr Karen Hyslop said councillors undertook ‘quite a lot of debate’ before deciding how to allocate the remaining money.
At last week’s meeting councillors voted to approve the money for six projects: a North Park Stawell traffic treatment; North Park Stawell playground
“The infrastructure team was able to look into the bag of projects that have got some status in the 10-year plan”
– Cr Eddy Ostarcevic
upgrades; a Stawell Airport precision approach path indicator, PAPI, system; Lake Road roundabout renewal; Stawell Sports and Aquatic Centre outdoor pool covers; and St Arnaud Market Square restroom upgrades.
“The infrastructure team was able to look into the bag of projects that have got some status in the 10-year plan,” Cr Eddy Ostarcevic said.
“It was a very good collegiate form of discussions among councillors and we landed on the appropriate projects within the budget available.”
Cr Ostarcevic said the nature of the Federal Government funding, which was not tied to specific projects, allowed councils a greater degree of flexibility and self-determination.
“Untied funding allows us to make our own decisions, rather than follow the tune of the state and federal politicians,” he said.
is among many groups nationally hosting a Biggest Morning
raised – almost $1.2-million so far this year – goes to people
The Laharum community will host its 19th Cancer Council Biggest Morning Tea fundraiser at Laharum Hall on Thursday next week.
The Local Vocal Group will also provide entertainment and there will be a ‘bring and buy’ produce stall and raffle with ‘great prizes’.
Money raised from entry to the Biggest Morning Tea will help provide support,
Entry to the event, starting at 10.30am, is by donation and organisers are asking for people to bring morning tea to share. Cancer service improvement facilitator at Wimmera Cancer Centre, Donna Bridge, will be guest speaker.
care and hope to Australians living with cancer.
Stall money will go towards ongoing patient care improvement at Wimmera Cancer Centre and Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre.
People can call Liz on 0427 838 207 for more information.
As the winter months approach and the thoughts of Wimmera residents turn to heating their homes, Craig Irvin of Wade’s Horsham has a simple message – keep gas in mind.
Mr Irvin, Wade’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning manager, said in the wake of 2023 State Government legislation excluding gas from new buildings, some people believed gas was on the way out.
But he said that notion was far from the truth.
He said gas was still a vital component of home heating, and would continue to be long into the future.
“Gas is here to stay,” he said.
“Some people are thinking gas is going to be phased out and removed from properties, but we want to let our customers know that gas isn’t going anywhere.”
Mr Irvin invited people to contact Wade’s to discuss their range of Australian-made Braemar ducted gas heaters.
He said they were a great option for people looking to install ducted heating for the rst time or those upgrading their system.
“Because of gas prices at the moment, it makes sense to upgrade from a low-ef ciency gas heater to a high-ef ciency, vestar gas heater,” he said.
“For a ducted gas heater, changeover in most cases is a straight-out appliance swap. It’s a relatively simple process.
“Now is the time to do that with the colder weather starting to set in. Wade’s offer a no-obligation, free quote.”
Mr Irvin said Wade’s status as a Seeley International Climate
Master dealership made it the logical choice for those in the market for a new gas system.
“Because we’re a Climate Master dealer, which is a special tier of dealership, we can offer up to a seven-year warranty,” he said.
“If you bought the same product online or from a plumbing
wholesaler, you’d only get a veyear warranty.
“It hopefully gives our customers peace of mind.”
And with federal resources minister Madeleine King last week announcing the government’s medium and long-term commitment to natural gas as part of the country’s transition to net-
from
all your
zero carbon emissions by 2050, Mr Irvin said now was the time to install a new system.
People can visit Wade’s at 1820 Pynsent Street, Horsham to discuss heating options with their in-store experts.
People can also call 5382 3823 or visit website wadesgp.com.au for more information.
$300
The media has an incredible responsibility when reporting about family violence.
The way it presents stories, the words written to describe the situation and the accompanying pictures can have a deep impact on the audience.
For the past three editions, The Weekly Advertiser has included stories on family violencerelated issues and events.
When considering whether to cover it again in this week’s editorial, the issue of media saturation and whether people are ‘tuning out’ due to the unprecedented level of media coverage across the nation in the past month was a factor.
But conversations and incidents in my personal and professional life in the past week have again reminded me how important it is to keep family violence at the front of people’s minds.
And it’s not just the actual physical acts of violence that need addressing. It’s thinking on a deeper level where the poor level of treatment starts, and the need for everybody in society to play a role in trying to change the poor attitudes and responses to what is now an epidemic.
Family violence can be physical, sexual violence or abuse; emotional or psychological abuse; economic abuse; threatening behaviour; coercion, controlling or dominating a family member that causes them to feel fear for the safety of themselves or another family member; or causes a child to hear, witness or be exposed to the above behaviours.
While physical violence has dominated the nation’s media in the past month, it is the other be-
haviours listed above that is where it often starts.
Assault, threats to harm, confining a person against their will, damaging another person’s property, or stalking or harming a person’s pets fall under the family violence umbrella.
But it can also start with simply how you speak to women and the attitudes and opinions one has towards the topic.
When discussing family violence, responses such as ‘but it happens to men too’, represent a dismissal of the core facts that statistically the overwhelming proportion of victims are women.
Yes it is unacceptable for anyone to be the victim of family violence – but if the default response is to immediately raise that men can be victims too, are people fully listening and comprehending the core of the issue?
It also doesn’t help when metropolitan media leads with the fact that AFL footballers attended the funeral of Clunes woman Hannah McGuire, who was allegedly murdered by a former partner.
Let’s be clear. It is not all men who perpetrate family violence.
Most men never commit any form of family violence.
Women maintaining the rage is not working.
It is time for all men and women to call people out, take a stand and display the right, respectful way to treat girls and women. Show leadership, take action and make a difference.
Costing students their future
Just before the 2022 state election, the Labor government announced an $850-million program of capital works for government schools.
Stawell West Primary School is one of many schools that was promised an investment, and yet last week’s budget again fails to provide a single dollar for the pledged upgrades and modernisation work. Stawell West Primary School was promised $4.7-million.
It was a very attractive policy at the time, after all every Victorian should want to raise educational outcomes and invest in the next generation no matter which party they support.
‘You can’t get a first-rate education in a second-rate classroom,’ said the then-premier Dan Andrews, yet as soon as the election was won it seems the pledge was abandoned.
These schools deserve proper support and students deserve the very best education.
Instead, students, teachers and the community are left with a broken promise. It is no wonder that politicians are held in such low esteem.
In last year’s budget, funding for capital works was not allocated for most projects.
Some schools were added to the list this year, but that still leaves Stawell West Primary School among many others questioning where their funding is. Children only get one education, they can’t wait around forever.
I call on the government to deliver its commitment to Stawell West Primary School straight away.
Interestingly, 70 percent of the schools promised upgrades were in Labor-held seats, and 80 percent of those have now received funding. But of the remaining schools, in Opposition-held seats, only 41 percent have been funded.
This year’s budget proves that the many pictures taken of smiley Labor MPs visiting schools was nothing more than electioneering – a photo opportunity for a deceitful campaign.
Labor really takes the crown for pork barrelling and distrust in government.
Victorian public schools remain the lowest funded per student in Australia. Projected to reach a record high of $188-billion, Victoria’s ballooning debt and economic mismanagement is costing students their future.
Bev McArthur, Liberal Memberfor Western Victoria
Horsham College captains Sienna Walsgott and Mal O’Brien, and vice-captain Molly Abbott, are eager to get their hands on some children’s books for 50 cents a piece at the school’s biannual book fair.
A major college fundraiser, it helps finance the role of college chaplain, who enables the provision of a breakfast hub, the For Faith lunchtime group, feeding programs and awareness days, along with everyday assistance.
The event is supported by the school and wider community, from the students who move the
books into the hall, to members of the public who donate books and magazines, Waste Busters who assist with recycling, and the Horsham Apex and Rotary clubs.
Following an unsuccessful federal funding application, Horsham College relies on donations received by the chaplaincy committee to continue funding the chaplain position, and with fundraisers such as the book fair. The fair will run from noon on Friday until noon on Saturday in Maroske Hall, Dimboola Road, Horsham.
www.ararat.vic.gov.au
www.ararat.vic.gov.au
www.ararat.vic.gov.au
2PM - 3PM | FRIDAY 17 MAY
2PM - 3PM | FRIDAY 17 MAY
ARARAT GALLERY TAMA
ARARAT GALLERY TAMA
Calling all members and allies of the LGBTIQ+ community! Join us as we recognise International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism and Transphobia.
Calling all members and allies of the LGBTIQ+ community! Join us as we recognise International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism and Transphobia.
After the raising of the Pride Progress flag at the front of the
After the raising of the Pride Progress flag at the front of the Council office, we invite you to an afternoon tea featuring our 2024 IDAHOBIT Ambassador Toby Steele.
Toby Steele
DATE: Friday 17 May TIME: 2pm – 3pm
VENUE: Town Hall Studio
(Entry via Ararat Gallery TAMA on Vincent Street)
DATE: Friday 17 May TIME: 2pm – 3pm VENUE: Town Hall Studio (Entry via Ararat Gallery TAMA on Vincent Street)
Scan the QR code below to register.
Scan the QR code below to register.
Check out the one-stop event connecting community organisations with fresh volunteers: the Volunteer Expo.
Check out the one-stop event connecting community organisations with fresh volunteers: the Volunteer Expo.
Check out the one-stop event connecting community organisations with fresh volunteers: the Volunteer Expo. If you’re already a proud member of a volunteer group, the Expo is your opportunity to share the heart of your cause and speak to potential new group members. If you aren’t yet part of our beloved volunteer community, you could uncover your new passion – not to mention new friends – at the Expo! Come explore the many opportunities available from groups just waiting for your unique skills and enthusiasm.
If you’re already a proud member of a volunteer group, the Expo is your opportunity to share the heart of your cause and speak to potential new group members. If you aren’t yet part of our beloved volunteer community, you could uncover your new passion – not to mention new friends – at the Expo! Come explore the many opportunities available from groups just waiting for your unique skills and enthusiasm.
If you’re already a proud member of a volunteer group, the Expo is your opportunity to share the heart of your cause and speak to potential new group members. If you aren’t yet part of our beloved volunteer community, you could uncover your new passion – not to mention new friends – at the Expo! Come explore the many opportunities available from groups just waiting for your unique skills and enthusiasm.
Please contact Fr Martin for more information on (03) 5352 1109 or Martin.Nadarajan@ ballaratanglican.org.au
DATE: 24 May 2024
TIME: 5pm – 7pm
Please contact Fr Martin for more information on (03) 5352 1109 or Martin.Nadarajan@ ballaratanglican.org.au
Please contact Fr Martin for more information on (03) 5352 1109 or Martin.Nadarajan@ ballaratanglican.org.au
VENUE: Alexandra Community Centre
@araratruralcitycouncil
@araratruralcitycouncil
@araratruralcitycouncil
Come along to meet ‘n’ greet the adorable animals ready for adoption at the Ararat Animal Shelter Open
If you’re ready to open your heart and home to a deserving (03) 5355 0200 or scan the QR code for more information.
If you’re ready to open your heart and home to a deserving pet, please reach out to our Local Laws department on (03) 5355 0200 or scan the QR code for more information.
potential new parents. Fill in an adoption form ahead of time by scanning the QR code, or for more info, locallaws@ararat.vic. gov.au
Come along to meet ‘n’ greet the adorable animals ready for adoption at the Ararat Animal Shelter Open potential new parents. Fill in an adoption form ahead of time by scanning the QR code, or for more info, locallaws@ararat.vic. gov.au
DATE: Saturday 11 May TIME: 11am – 1pm
VENUE: Ararat Animal Shelter 19 Pound Lane, Ararat
DATE: Saturday 11 May TIME: 11am – 1pm VENUE: Ararat Animal Shelter 19 Pound Lane, Ararat
If you’ve elected to pay your 2023/2024 Council Rates in instalments, the due date for your fourth and final payment is approaching. Put 31 May in your calendar to ensure you stay on top of your rates, empowering Council to continue funding important community services. Rates notices are issued in August of each year.
If you wish to request a notice copy, update your contact details, or for any other rates related queries, please contact rates@ararat.vic.gov.au
Australia’s premiere comedy bash is setting off on its annual roadtrip around the country, and its stop at Ararat Town Hall is guaranteed to be an all-night knee-slapper. Scan the QR code to grab your tickets!
Australia’s premiere comedy bash is setting off on its annual roadtrip around the country, and its stop at Ararat Town Hall is guaranteed to be an all-night knee-slapper. Scan the QR code to grab your tickets!
A
rarat Rural City Council has adopted a new community consultation timeline for its 2024-25 budget after disruption caused by February’s bushfire at Pomonal.
The council will post a draft budget on website engage.ararat.vic.gov. au on Friday, with opportunities for community engagement and feedback at town-hall-style meetings across the municipality from May 27-29.
A one-page summary of key budget details will also be available at council sites across the municipality from Friday.
Chief executive Tim Harrison encouraged community members to give their feedback on the draft document once it was released.
“We’re doing the town hall meetings over a pretty intense two-anda-bit-day period. That’ll keep us on our toes during that time,” he said.
“We’re hoping to see lots of community members in attendance
to see what they’ve got planned. There’s also a budget drop-in session at the council offices between 9am and 2pm on May 30.
“That gives people who may be a little nervous about attending a town hall meeting with a group of people around to come in for individual questions.”
Town hall meetings will be at: Tatyoon, May 27 at 7pm; Elmhurst, May 28 at 11am; Ararat, May 28 at 2pm; Pomonal, May 29 at 11:30am; Moyston, May 29 at 2:30pm; Willaura, May 29 at 5:30pm; and Lake Bolac, May 29 at 7pm.
Cr Jo Armstrong encouraged people to attend any meeting that suited them best.
“With people’s work and family commitments, it’s sometimes difficult to find a time of day or evening to suit, so I encourage people to look not only to their own locality, but look to see where else the opportunity has been extended to participate in the process,” she said.
“I look forward to seeing lots of people.”
Australian actor John Jarratt will be in Horsham on Saturday, May 25 to promote his upcoming film, ‘What About Sal’.
The film follows a young man with Down syndrome who sets off to find his father after his mother
is diagnosed with terminal cancer. Jarratt, star of movies Wolf Creek and Django Unchained, and television’s McLeod’s Daughters, will do a meet and greet at 6pm ahead of the 6.30pm screening. A question and answer session will follow at 8pm.
A quick-change on the roadside and then getting bogged did not amount to a bad omen on Graeme and Ann Wynne’s wedding day – the couple has just celebrated 60 years of marriage.
First meeting at their workplace, A.G. Healing in Pynsent Street, Horsham, in 1959, the couple courted for three years until their engagement in 1963. They married on May 9, 1964.
“After our wedding we drove our car and caravan to Mildura for our honeymoon,” Mr Wynne said.
“We hadn’t even gotten to Warracknabeal when I had to pull over for Anne to change, she was hot – it was 27 degrees.
“Then we got to Mildura and got bogged in some sand.”
The couple later welcomed children Sharon and Michael, then grandchildren Lily, Rigby and Monty.
Mr and Mrs Wynne have always lived in the area – from buying their first house in Horsham for £8900, to living on a hobby farm at Quantong, and now residing at Wimmera Village.
Mrs Wynne said they enjoyed travelling Australia with their caravan over the years, including trips to Broken Hill, Port Douglas and Cooktown.
“I remember arriving at a caravan park and setting up the annexe,” Mrs Wynne said.
“We didn’t realise, until our neigh-
bours told us, that we’d put the annexe on inside-out – we felt such fools!”
Although declining health has slowed their caravanning trips, and respective photography and cake decorating hobbies, Mr and Mrs Wynne enjoy spending their time in other ways.
“We enjoy dining out together, usually the sports club or the White Hart,” Mr Wynne said.
Mrs Wynne said their secret to a long, happy marriage had been doing everything together.
“We’ve always gotten along well,” she said.
“We’ve had a good life.”
– Bronwyn Hastings
Victoria’s regional unemployment rate is now sitting below the national average, with thousands of jobs created and filled across the state.
Current regional labour force data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, ABS, shows 6700 people in regional Victoria found jobs in the past month, bringing the unemployment rate to 3.7 percent.
Skillinvest operation general manager Glen Pohlner said the government’s initiatives to boost employment in regional areas was appreciated.
“While we are yet to see a significant increase in job openings in the Wimmera, we remain optimistic about the future,” he said.
“We hope to see these initiatives lead to tangible improvements in our local communities.”
According to the ABS data, unemployment
remains low in many regional areas of Victoria, including Warrnambool and the South West with 2.2 per cent, Hume 2.9 per cent, Bendigo 3.1 per cent and Geelong 3.5 per cent.
Regional employment in Victoria has grown by more than 25 per cent since November 2014, the strongest state growth over the period.
“Skillinvest is committed to helping job seekers find meaningful employment,” Mr Pohlner said.
Noisy chatter and giggles filled the halls of Lakeside Living at Edenhope, as a group of primary students joined residents for an afternoon of games and connection.
The busload of St Malachy’s Primary School students, aged between eight and 11 years old, were visiting as part of the faithbased ‘Mini Vinnies’ program. Lakeside Living resident Annette Hicks said the rush of activity, and some ‘silliness’, was welcomed.
“I enjoy the company and don’t mind a bit of noise,” she said.
“It makes you feel as though you’re important because we’re a bit out of sight in here.
“They’ll grow up to be helpful people and help make a brighter life for themselves and others.”
St Malachy’s principal John O’Sullivan said he hoped to re-create the catchups on a fortnightly basis.
“In my 38 years of teaching, it’s one of the best things I’ve ever done,” he said.
“This is our modern religion; if we do hands-on work with the kids and they connect with elderly people or marginalised groups, we’re putting those lessons into practice.”
In preparation for their visit, students took COVID tests and discussed the varying levels of
engagement with elderly companions.
“One lady was non-verbal and young Henry in grade five tried to shake her hand,” Mr O’Sullivan said.
“She didn’t really respond to that so he gave her a hug. I would’ve run a mile at that age –
it was remarkable.”
Resident and former teacher
Clare Ryan was also impressed by the next generation.
“They were very polite, so that was good,” she said.
“It took me back to my teaching days.”
“We are constantly adapting to the changing job market and leveraging our expertise to connect individuals with opportunities.”
Independent analysts Deloitte Access Economics forecasts Victoria’s economy to grow by 3.1 per cent in 2023-24, the strongest growth in the country.
Deloitte Access Economics expect Victoria’s economic growth to outpace all other states over the next five years.
Six community programs are the latest recipients of Ararat Rural City’s Community Grants Program.
In the latest round, council awarded a total of $13,496 to the following programs: Ararat Early Learning Centre for their kinder gym program; Ararat Neighbourhood House to support their Grampians Green Thumb Project, a program designed to increase the number of people growing their own food from home; upgrading of safety equipment at Grampians Soaring Club; Australian Plant Society’s Pomonal Native Flower Show – 40th anniversary; Chalambar Bowls Club’s new member recruitment drive; and Halls Gap Neighbourhood House’s regrowth project of vegetable gardens and trees for fire-affected Pomonal residents.
The grants offer financial assistance to support initiatives and strengthen community bonds, championing community-led endeavours, providing financial support to amplify engagement across sports and recreation, cultural events, arts accessibility, and sustainability initiatives.
Community groups were encouraged to apply for grants of up to $5000 on a two-for-one basis, available in four categories: sport, recreation, health and wellbeing; culture and arts; environment and sustainability; and events.
“Our Community Grants Program is designed to empower local initiatives and uplift projects that enhance the fabric of our communities,” council chief executive Tim Harrison said.
Applications for the program open four times a year.
Precise spread patterns even at working widths of up to 45 m
Monitoring and control of the application rate via the weighing system AutoTS integrated boundary spreading system GPS switch technology for up to 132 sections with ISOBUS Section Control 3200-5000 litre hopper capacity
ACHIEVEMENT: Course participants at the
Warner Institute is strengthening aged care and disability services in the Wimmera, with job-ready graduates presented with their qualifications last week.
The biggest cohort yet, 24 students graduated with certificates in individual support, ageing support, and disability in a ceremony at Horsham’s Centre for Participation on Friday.
Course manager Debbie Hutchinson, who presented the certificates to the graduates, said the courses were delivered in-person and online to a variety of students.
“We had a mix of ages, from school-leavers right through to people in their 60s, and from a range of backgrounds,” she said.
“Some are looking to upskill and stay in the industry, while others have come from completely different fields, such as hairdressing and hospitality.”
Working as a nurse for 15 years, and teaching for eight years, Ms Hutchinson has taught more than 500 students.
“I am very proud of the graduates –there is such demand in the industry, they all have jobs already,” she said.
Course consultant George Bonnici said the flexible hours of aged care and disability services was attractive to many job-seekers.
“There are different shifts available over seven days, which gives flexibility to people working around the needs of their families,” he said.
port and Certificate IV Leisure and Health.
Inquiries can be made to course consultant George Bonnici on 0437 931 307, by emailing george@warnerinstitute.com.au or via warnerinstitute.com.au.
Telstra is currently upgrading its mobile base station with additional infrastructure at Dimboola to bring better 4G and new 5G coverage to the community – a first for the town.
The upgrade will bring benefits such as more capacity, better network connectivity and less conges-
tion in peak periods. Outages and minor interruptions for 3G and 4G users will continue until May 21 while call testing is completed and the network integrated.
Emergency calls to Triple Zero will be automatically diverted to any working mobile network for connection to emergency services.
Telstra customers are encouraged to activate wi-fi calling at home or at work, a free setting, to allow calls to be made and received. Landline services, NBN internet and mobile coverage from other providers will not be affected. Customers will need a 5G-capable device to access the network.
Wesley was an extraordinary achievement by a huge band of volunteers.
It is now more than 30 years since we commenced our grand plan, which was immediately considered doomed to fail by almost everyone.
I would like to tell you about some of the hurdles and successes on the long road from 1991.
In September that year, a committee, headed by Robert Langlands and myself, hoped to raise money to buy the redundant Wesley Church for a performing arts centre to be owned by the people of Horsham.
Other committee members were Ian Dickson, Margaret Scott, Robin Barber, Richard Morris, Suzanne Brooks, Brian Murray and Andrew Wyatt. By December of 1993, we had raised $61,000.
The city council was asked for assistance and came up with $2000. We eventually bought the church in May, 1994 for $195,000.
The council gave a $60,000 loan to be repaid over the following six years. The Sunday School was sold to Glenn Ryan for $60,000.
It was a huge undertaking for a small number of people but their vision has been vindicated.
By now the organ console had been removed, there was a new stage made of jarrah timber donated by Weight’s Hardware, the building had been completely rewired free of charge by the electricians of Horsham, Adrian Vanderwaal had painted the hall free of charge with paint donated by Taubmans and the teachers at Horsham Music Academy had bought and made
the velvet curtains. In May 1995, Wesley was ready for its opening concert.
The committee had a frantic Saturday morning completing the final touches. Rick Stephens and Herb Krelle were moving the two pianos in; Michael Giddings and Marg Scott were vacuuming; Robert and Judy Evans were dusting the pews; John Weight and Andrew Wyatt were putting the last coat of stain on the new stage panelling; Brian Murray and Philip Weight were putting up the steel rods for the black wings curtains; Lea Crammond and Kaye Valpied were threading the chains through the hems of the black curtains; Rosemary Nurse and I were hemming the velvet curtains; and Marie Schirmer was arranging the flowers.
It was total mayhem when Andrew’s mobile phone rang.
He answered ‘Horsham Lunatic Asylum here’, whereupon the caller hung up.
We bought 300 60-year-old seats from the Castlemaine Theatre at a cost of $4000.
The ones they showed us were not all the same as the ones that arrived on the truck; they sent four different models!
I was furious but couldn’t do anything about it. They were in a shocking condition and it took 18 months of working bees – led by John – to make them presentable.
Handbury donation
On June 28, 1997, I invited Helen and Geoff Handbury to dinner and we then attended a concert at Wesley. The following morning, Geoff rang to say they had a birthday present for me –$200,000 for Wesley.
On the strength of this, I wrote a submission to the State Government’s Community Support Fund and in December received a grant for $240,000.
This was my third attempt and I guess they didn’t dare refuse this time. We now had enough money for major development works.
Around this time, I went to a daytime concert at The Edge theatre at Federation Square.
From my seat I had a view of the Yarra River with boat sheds on the far side.
One had glass in the gable-end roof and I thought ‘that’s how we’ll get good light in the foyer’.
I made a cardboard model of my idea and Robin Barber drew it up – we subsequently won a Victorian Building Design Award in 2000.
Wesley was a hive of industry in 1998. Changing rooms, a green room and toilets were built at the rear. The
foyer, office and kitchen were built at the front. We had a three-month hold-up when an architect hired by the council decreed that the new plans would ruin the appearance of the streetscape and permission was withheld until we persuaded them otherwise.
The magnificent foyer and passage ceilings of western red cedar were donated by Weight’s Hardware.
I told John we could only afford plaster so it was Weight’s to the rescue again. We were always running out of money as the $440,000 available was not really enough for our grand vision.
It was very exciting to win Victoria’s Building Preservation Award in 1998 despite the fact that at the time of judging, the place looked a mess.
Wesley celebrated its grand opening on February 26, 1999, with the Handburys present to unveil the plaque in the Handbury Foyer. My Dad
unveiled the round leadlight window – that John and I donated in honour of our parents – with some interesting anecdotes from this crotchety 89-yearold doctor.
Pianist Roger Woodward, who performed at that special event, walked in late in the afternoon, clapped his hands twice and said ‘take down those curtains and pull up those carpets’. Mentally I put my hands on my hips and stamped my foot and said ‘I will not’. He wasn’t the star of the show that night – Wesley was.
spirit
A number of Arts Victoria officials were present and couldn’t believe how little it all cost – I pointed out that it’s the country spirit and volunteering that make the difference.
Many improvements were made as we earned money from concerts and hiring the venue, including heating, theatre lighting and sound, a new roof and the courtyard.
I purchased a beautiful Schimmel grand piano for Wesley in memory of my dear John who died in June 2004, and was such a great supporter of Wesley.
The many volunteers who worked at Wesley made all this possible.
I remember one year we put on 30 concerts and we were all working as well. It was a huge investment in time, labour and donations.
In total, we raised $1.25-million.
Wesley was the obstacle course of my life that became a wonderful part of Horsham’s past. Please make it an exciting part of Horsham’s future too.
• To donate, visit www.hrcc.vic.gov. au/Our-Council/Current-Projects/ help-us-reopen-the-wesley.
Andrew Lynch leads something of a double life.
In the northern Wimmera he is simply a farmer, but across Australia and internationally, he is known as a burnout champion who goes by the moniker ‘Lynchy’.
Mr Lynch has been a leading figure in the Australian burnout scene for years, with his blue 1981 Toyota Corolla cutting a unique profile on the track.
In January, Mr Lynch took out the Burnout Masters title at Summernats in Canberra – Australia’s largest annual car festival.
His win marked the first time a naturally-aspirated car won the burnout title against turbocharged vehicles in more than 15 years.
Having conquered the Australian burnout scene, Mr Lynch has now set his sights on the United States.
Along with a few other Australian burnout competitors, Mr Lynch is en route to Brainerd International Raceway in Minnesota to take part in a Powercruise USA event.
He will then embark on a Burnout
Masters World Tour. He and the other Australian drivers will exhibit a style of burnouts he said was foreign to many Americans.
“We’re going to tour across America and attend all the burnout shows that they’re putting on over there,” he said.
“Burnouts are slowly taking off over there, and we’re going to go and show them how Aussies do it.
“Hopefully we can go over there and set the bar, and they can work towards that.”
Despite his success in the burnout scene, Mr Lynch said he remained a farmer first.
While admitting that he could spend as long as two years touring the United States, he said he would fly home between shows during harvest season.
“I think it started out with the farm being the hobby and burnouts being my main thing, but it’s slowly transitioned and now I’m a bit more serious into the farming and it’s a bit more of a hobby with the burnouts,” he said.
“I would never describe (burnouts) as work. I’ve never looked at it like that. This trip should be a fantastic
holiday doing all the things I love doing.
“If everything pans out over there, a couple of years might be on the cards. I think I’ll have to be back for harvest, but I’ve got a good team who can make sure everything gets done while I’m away.”
Mr Lynch said regardless of whether people thought of him as a farmer or a wheelman, he was simply glad to be able to do both. And with burnouts growing in popularity, he said he hoped to be able to continue his passion.
“I think (the scene) is getting stronger,” he said.
“There are more shows, and especially after COVID where everyone was locked away for a little bit, more cars are being built and you see new young faces on the scene all the time. I think it can only get stronger.”
Mr Lynch will appear in Powercruise USA from May 16 to 20 before taking part in the Burnout Masters World Tour. People can follow his progress via his Facebook page www.facebook. com/p/LYNCHY-100067523447220.
Grampians Health cancer resource nurse Catherine Olston shaved her head earlier this month as part of a charity fundraiser in support of her brother Don Timmins.
Ms Olston, who is part of the Horsham and District Cancer Friendship Group, said she raised about $1000 for Bowel Cancer Australia after Mr Timmins was diagnosed with bowel cancer at the start of this year.
“I thought, ‘he’s doing the hard yards, so I’ll do a shave’,” she said.
“I have done a head shave previously, initially for the Leukemia Foundation. But that was probably 20 years ago.”
Mr Timmins later shaved his own head and
beard, and said many people could not remember him without facial hair.
“I haven’t been clean shaven for about 15 or 20 years,” he said.
“I shaved it all off when my father got sick, and the grandkids reckoned I looked like Freddy Kruger.”
Mr Timmins said he had been through a round of chemotherapy and radiation treatment, and was due for another dose of chemotherapy before an operation later this year.
All proceeds will help Bowel Cancer Australia provide support, awareness and research for bowel cancer.
Westpac Bank has extended its moratorium on regional branch closures until 2027, including its branches at Horsham and Ararat.
The bank will invest more than $150 million in its branch network over the next two years, while continuing to educate customers on the benefits of virtual banking.
Westpac data shows an 11 per cent increase in virtual banking, with 5.92 million customers using Westpac’s apps and online platforms. However, the 2.2 million customers in regional areas are still supported with face-to-face banking.
More than $200 million is being invested over 10 years in its partnership with Australia Post, allowing customers to perform the majority of cash and cheque transactions at a Bank@Post. Westpac is also continuing its co-location program, bringing two brands together to improve longevity. So far there are 100 co-locations nationally, with a further 40 locations to be delivered by 2027.
The moratorium will also benefit St George, BankSA and Bank of Melbourne customers, whose branch network connects with Westpac.
Edenhope Golf Club captain, David Whisker:
We
The
Two new modular buildings will support 66 extra kindergarten places in St Arnaud next year, with Northern Grampians Shire Council last week approving a site at St Arnaud Primary School.
Funding for the buildings is part of the State Government’s Best Start, Best Life reforms, which aim to provide greater access to kinder services.
Northern Grampians Shire Council was among the first local government areas selected for government funding through the program in 2022.
In April this year the council formed a stakeholder reference group to consider the future of early learning services in St Arnaud, including a site for the modular buildings. The council previously ruled out Market Square as a site in November last year.
The reference group’s formation came after the Victorian School Building Authority, VSBA, informed the council it needed to select a site by the end of May in order to have the buildings operational by January 2025.
The council narrowed its choices to sites at St Arnaud Primary School and St Arnaud Sports Stadium, with councillors voting unanimously in favour of the primary school site at last week’s meeting.
The council plans to expand services at the site with a future integrated early learning centre to complement the modular buildings, replacing the town’s existing early learning centre on Walker Street.
While councillors were pleased to have finalised a site, several expressed frustration at what they felt was a truncated timeline imposed by the State Government.
“We haven’t made appropriate representations nor do we really appreciate what the new early learning centre will look like because we have an ongoing engagement with our reference group to find out what things the early learning centre should incorporate,” Cr Eddy Ostarcevic said.
“Until we get an integrated facility up, we’re going to have two separate locations, which is problematic for our staff in an era when gaining staff is challenging.”
Cr Karen Hyslop said demand for the centres was clear.
“We know that if we delay this project any further, there may be a risk that we lose this project,” she said.
“We know we have the demand in St Arnaud and it’s such an important project for parents who work and mums who want to put their kids in pre-prep.”
Cr Trevor Gready supported the motion but said the council had been ‘railroaded into’ a decision by the State Government.
“We’ve had a timeline put upon us that we have to abide by, it’s a bit too rushed,” he said.
Cr Murray Emerson said the council’s most responsible course of action was to finalise the site.
“It’s not the perfect motion but it’s the one that we need to take,” he said.
“I’m more than confident with it to make sure that we get the two modulars, to deal with the 66-odd kids that can’t get a go at the moment. It’s as simple as that.”
POP-UP STALLS: Federation TAFE’s Leonie Barnett, left, and Petena Thomas manned a pop-up stall at Horsham Plaza last week, giving passers-by an opportunity to learn more about in-demand courses offered at the Wimmera campus. An innovative alternative to a traditional open day, the stall offered course information for disability support, mental health, cyber security, individual support, community services, early childhood and education care, accounting and bookkeeping. Last year’s pop-up stall resulted in numerous expressions of interest for the Diploma of Nursing course. Pop-up stalls will appear at Horsham Plaza on Wednesday, May 22; Friday, August 9; and Wednesday, September 11, from 9am until 3.30pm each day. Further information is available online at federation.edu.au.
Grampians Health celebrated the installation of a state-of-the-art $500,000 main switchboard, MSB, at its Stawell campus.
Chief redevelopment and infrastructure officer Veronica Furnier-Tosco said the successful switchboard upgrade demonstrated Grampians Health’s commitment to delivering excellent patient care and embracing modern technology.
“The new MSB will power the entire site while helping safeguard critical care provisions within clin-
ical areas at our Stawell campus,” she said.
Capital projects director Stuart Squire said the MSB installation was a collaboration between Grampians Health’s capital projects and engineering teams.
“The upgrade was necessary due to the previous MSB reaching its capacity and end of life support for electrical components,” he said.
Director of engineering Darryn Wardle said the six-month upgrade involved a meticulous sequence of tasks, including the installation of
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a new generator. “The transition to the new MSB necessitated the cutover of consumer mains and submains, which were seamlessly energised,” he said.
“To ensure uninterrupted operations, temporary generators were strategically deployed to power different areas of the hospital throughout the transition process.” Mr Squire and Mr Wardle said they appreciated the patience and support of all staff at the Stawell campus during the upgrade process.
Most bearings within the agricultural environment break down because the seals deteriorate, which allows contaminants to enter the bearing and dry the lubricants, rather than bearings failing directly. Mud slurry tests are performed to compare the life of different brands of bearings within the same environment. The bar chart below compares the life of
To celebrate National Volunteer Week, East Grampians Health Service is inviting its volunteers and anyone who is considering volunteering to attend an afternoon tea on Tuesday.
Recruitment, retention and recognition of volunteers is important and EGHS prides itself on providing a positive volunteering culture with its strong connection to the community.
Volunteers use their talents and skills to work with residents in aged care facilities; consumers at the Patricia Hinchey Centre; as bus drivers transporting consumers on outings; meals on wheels; participating in the Murray to Moyne Cycle Relay; and as consumer representatives on a variety of EGHS committees, including the community consultative committee.
EGHS chief executive Nick Bush said auxiliaries and event volunteers gave much of their time to the health service and improving the lives of residents, patients and consumers, and
Girl Guides Victoria unit leader Wendy Rowe has accepted the role of Horsham District Manager, overseeing the running of Horsham’s Girl Guide units, parents group, hall maintenance and members.
Starting her Guide leader career as a parent helper in 2010, Mrs Rowe said her first focus was to increase member numbers at Horsham.
“I’d like to see more girls come along to our Early Birds and Night Owl groups,” she said.
“And I’d like to have more leaders join us – I’d love to see our Guide unit growing.”
Girl Guides enjoy a range of chosen activities, including camps, community service, events and crafts, and can set personal goals to earn badges and awards.
Horsham Girl Guides meet each Wednesday. People can visit website www.guidesvic.org.au or the Horsham Girl Guides Facebook page for more information.
– Bronwyn Hastings
had also raised thousands of dollars for new equipment and services throughout many years.
There are four active auxiliaries at the health service: EGHS Auxiliary; Ark Toy and Activity Library Auxiliary; Residents’ Support Group; and Willaura Health Care Auxiliary, all of which have contributed to the improvement of EGHS services to the community for many years.
Mr Bush said the auxiliaries each fundraised and members volunteered in a range of areas of the health service and had different aims and goals, and all were welcoming of new members.
“I am extremely proud of all our volunteers who give selflessly of their time and energy to support our many consumers and promote our wonderful health service,” he said.
“EGHS’s volunteers work in many areas of the health service, including Willaura, and they have provided countless hours of dedication in help-
ing with many activities and events over the years.
“National Volunteer Week, from May 20 to 26, this year has the theme of ‘Something for Everyone’ and if you choose to volunteer at EGHS there truly is something for all volunteers to get involved in.”
To celebrate National Volunteer Week, the health service will host an afternoon tea for all current volunteers and any community members interested in volunteering.
“People who have been thinking they would like to volunteer at EGHS, they are welcome to attend,” Mr Bush said.
The afternoon tea will be at EGHS on the Café Pyrenees Deck at 2pm on Tuesday. Guest speaker will be support services director Stuart Kerr, who will provide an overview of the building redevelopment and projects that are underway at EGHS.
People can RSVP to Hannah Jennings on 5352 9481.
COME ALONG: East Grampians Health Service is providing an afternoon tea on Tuesday for its volunteers and people interested in volunteering at the service. Pictured is EGHS Patricia Hinchey Centre staff Lionel Holt and Grace Rethus with volunteer Noela Mackay on St Patrick’s Day.
An event aiming to connect community organisations with new volunteers will be the centrepiece of this year’s National Volunteer Week celebrations in Ararat.
Fr Martin Nadarajan of Ararat’s Holy Trinity Anglican Church said the event would tie in with this year’s Volunteer Week theme of ‘Something for Everyone’, and encouraged people to ‘be bold’.
“Volunteering can be so rewarding. It helps us learn to articulate ideas, socialise and think outside the box. It can even be a stepping stone in your career,” he said.
Fr Nadarajan said people who already volunteered for community groups could use the expo to exhibit their group’s mission and speak to potential new members, while people unaffiliated with any volunteer group could use it as an opportunity to uncover a new passion or meet new friends.
Ararat Rural City Council chief executive Tim Harrison said volunteers were able to foster meaningful connections while directly impacting the lives of their communities.
“Volunteering offers a fantastic chance to feel the sense of belonging that makes rural life so special,” he said.
“Our community thrives when residents are actively involved. By volunteering, you’re not just enriching your own life – you’re investing in a vibrant and supportive future for the lives of those around you.”
The volunteer expo will be at Alexandra Community Centre on May 24 from 5pm to 7pm and is free to attend.
Acacia Caravan Park
Allan and Trev’s Workwear
Ararat Auto & Ag
Ararat RSL
BJ’s Furniture & Bedding
Casey Kosch First Aid Training
Clarks Furniture
Cooks of Horsham
Curtains By Robyn and Abbey
DMD Horsham
DMD Nhill
Dollar Curtains & Blinds Ararat
Eureka Garages & Sheds
Goldstar Self Storage
Grampians Office Services
Harvey Norman Ararat
Harvey Norman Horsham
Hermans of Horsham
Horsham Amcal Pharmacy
Horsham Betta Home Living
Horsham Golf Club
Horsham Lanes & Games
Horsham Plaza
Horsham RSL
Horsham Sports & Community Club
Hungry Jacks Horsham
Kevin Paisley Optometrists Horsham
Lardner Bros
Martin’s Hose Repairs
Moe’s Mexican Bar & Grill
Network Mobility
Plant Passion
Priceline Pharmacy Ararat
Simply Skin & Laser Clinic
Smallaire
Snap Fitness Horsham
Spotlight Horsham
Stawell Lotto
Stawell Pharmacy
Stawell Toyota
The Creekside Hotel
The Exchange Hotel Horsham
The Victoria Hotel Horsham
Tyrepower Ararat
Wimmera Aquatrail
Wimmera Mallee Ag
Wimmera Spas and Pools
Woody’s Top Cut Meats
Football and netball supporters across the Wimmera, southern Mallee and Grampians regions can nominate unsung heroes from farming communities through a Footy’s Favourite Farmer initiative by WorkSafe.
The competition, in collaboration with AFL Victoria and Netball Victoria, offers a chance for farmers and their local sporting clubs to win more than $20,000 worth of safety upgrades and other prizes.
Winners will receive $10,000 towards safety upgrades at their farm and another $10,000 for safety improvements or repairs at their community football-netball club.
Monthly winners drawn in the leadup to the major prize in August will receive a safety pack valued at $2000, which includes a Footy’s Favourite Farmer shirt, a personal safety tracking device and a quad bike operator protective device.
The farmer’s club will also receive a merchandise pack of footballs and netballs valued up to $1000, and the person who nominated them will receive a prize pack worth more than $500.
WorkSafe external affairs executive director Sam Jenkin said the competition launch coincided with the start of WorkSafe’s Country Club Weeks for 2024.
“Our role is to reduce workplace harm and to improve outcomes for
injured workers and in country areas we know a large part of staying safe at work means staying safe on farms,” he said.
“Sadly, too many workers are killed or seriously injured on farms every year and we are working to change that entrenched ‘she’ll be right’ attitude passed down through generations.”
Footy’s Favourite Farmer aims to honour the contributions of farmers to local communities and emphasise the importance of workplace safety in the agriculture sector.
Four people have died in workplace incidents on farms this year, while more than 550 people working in agriculture and related support services were injured seriously enough to receive workers compensation last year.
Luke Stuckey, Footy’s Favourite Farmer winner in 2023, praised WorkSafe’s support of country football and netball.
“Every day is dangerous and you know, every day is different. So, the dangers change from day to day working on a farm,” he said
“The WorkSafe message is massive… if you see a WorkSafe footy or you just see the banner somewhere it just makes you stop and think about getting home at the end of the day to see your kids and family.”
Nominations for Footy’s Favourite Farmer are open until August 2 and can be made at countryclubhub.com. au.
CREATING CONNECTIONS: About 80 children participated in a Hoops Against Violence basketball clinic at Horsham Basketball Stadium last month. The event aimed to help build close relationships between Victoria Police and Aboriginal communities in the region. A highlight was a highly competitive game of basketball for the ‘Hoops Against Violence Community Shield’, with Ballarat scoring a one-point win in the final seconds.
Participants also heard from police about family violence in the community and spoke about how to open up communication with police to assist them. Guest speakers on the day also discussed connection with culture and country and the importance of community. Goolum Goolum Aboriginal Co-operative, Dhelk Dja,
Uniting Wimmera and Grampians Community Health joined Victoria Police personnel on the day. Pictured is Senior Sergeant Eddie Malpas, police Aboriginal liaison officer Robyn Lauricella, Western Region Division Four Superintendent Sharon McCrory and Horsham Police Service Area Inspector Caroline Johnson with youngsters Aurora Mullan, Aubrey Mullan and Jimmy Tucker.
Horsham District Landcare Network and Natimuk Urban Landcare will host a pair of Wimmera region events in the next few weeks.
Horsham District Landcare Network will mark World Bee Day on Monday with a bee and pollinator forum at Horsham Neighbourhood House from 6pm to 8pm.
The forum will feature Zoos Victoria representatives alongside local
experts to raise awareness about the essential role bees and other pollinators play in keeping the planet healthy.
Wednesday, June 5 will see a Meeting With Mushrooms workshop in Natimuk focusing on fungal ecology and identification.
Alison Pouliot will host the workshop, which will be from 10am to 2.30pm at NC2, 65 Main Street, Natimuk.
The cost of the workshop is $25 for members and $35 for non-members.
People can register for the World Bee Day forum online by visiting events. humanitix.com/world-bee-day-forum.
Tickets for the Meeting With Mushrooms workshop are available online at events.humanitix.com/meetingwith-mushrooms-fungal-ecologyand-identification-workshop.
Alot of time has passed and hair cut since Helene Turvey began her hairdressing career as a trainee at Melbourne’s Australian Academy in Hairdressing in 1983.
Retiring after 40 years working in Horsham, Mrs Turvey has seen many trends come and go, and come around again.
“There are some styles I’m not a big fan of, but it’s the trend,” Mrs Turvey said.
“My favourite things to do are cutting, blow-waving and perming. Perming is seen as something for older people, but it’s more about putting body into hair.”
Mrs Turvey said perming was becoming a lost art, with trainee hairdressers now choosing the areas they want to specialise in.
“Nothing’s compulsory anymore, so things like perming will become a lost art. There are only a few hairdressers left who do perming,” she said.
Although it was difficult to find work in the drought conditions of late 1984 when Mrs Turvey qualified, she had a successful career across several salons, including GD’s Hairdressing.
“I worked there until March 1985, when I heard a little whisper that there was a full-time position in Dooen Road at Pinkies – where the pizza shop is now,” she said.
Then-owner Marjory Falting took Mrs Turvey under her wing until selling her the business within a year of starting.
“I owned it for 10 years, putting on an apprentice and working with three other ladies. It was very cosy, working in such a small space,” she said.
Ararat will be the first stop for Australia’s premier travelling comedy show, with Melbourne International Comedy Roadshow to hit town on Wednesday next week.
The annual road trip to country Victoria features some of the top comedians from Melbourne International Comedy Festival, with 26 stops on this year’s itinerary. Included on the bill are Zack Dyer, who brings a blend of absurd observations and bogan sensibilities to the stage; award-winning Butchulla, Mununjali and Woppaburra woman Janty Blair; actor David Quirk of critically acclaimed shows Please Like Me and Problems; He Huang who won viral fame with her 2022 Australia’s Got Talent audition; and Suren Jayemanne, who has appeared on Wil Anderson’s Question Everything and SBS Food’s Good Tucker.
The show will be at Ararat Town Hall on May 22 from 8pm to 10.15pm.
People can book tickets online at ararattownhall.com. au/event/melbourne-international-comedy-festivalroadshow-2 or call 1800 657 556 or email townhall@ ararat.vic.gov.au for more information.
Ararat will host an afternoon tea on Friday as it marks International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism and Transphobia, IDAHOBIT.
ENJOYABLE JOURNEY: Horsham hairdresser Helene Turvey has retired after more than 40 years in the industry.
Hers in the main street, which is now George the Salon, and was there for seven years.
Mrs Turvey sold the business just prior to the arrival of her first daughter in 1995.
“After I had my two girls, I went back to work part-time at North Blades in Edith Street,” she said.
“I went from there to Sirs and
“I was then approached by Jo from D’Lush Studio, where I stayed for 16-and-a-half years before retiring.”
Mrs Turvey had a broad client base, some of whom had been with her since the beginning.
“When I rang one lady and told her I was retiring, she was in
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tears, she had been with me since day one,” she said.
“Clients become friends, you see them regularly and share the good and hard times with them.
“I also have colleagues who trained under me, and they’re still there as friends.
“I have enjoyed my journey in a lot of ways.”
The event will begin with the raising of a pride progress flag at the Ararat Rural City Council office, with an afternoon tea from 2pm at Ararat Gallery TAMA featuring council IDAHOBIT ambassador Toby Steele. IDAHOBIT promotes the ongoing fight for LGBTQIA+ equality, aiming to advocate for the dignity of all people regardless of sexual orientation and gender identity or expression.
Cr Bob Sanders said the council was proud to celebrate the day.
“We’re committed to building a respectful and inclusive community for everyone,” he said.
“When everyone feels welcome, valued, and able to participate, the community flourishes.”
People can register their interest in the event by visiting www.trybooking.com/CRQGX.
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MUMS IN THE SPOTLIGHT:
Participants at Horsham’s Mother’s Day Classic on Sunday, right, and, above, the Horsham City Meats team who won the MIXX FM Workplace Warriors Shield. Top left, St Patrick’s Primary School Stawell students were busy making Mother’s Day gifts last week, including, from left, Prithvi, Charlie, Finn, Jai, Delilah, Anthony, Bill – at back – Elektra, Jack and Isaac. Horsham West and Haven Primary School
Mother’s Day activities were enjoyed by Jess Khan with her children Alira, Amity and Jaxson, top middle, Jack Soderman and his mum Sarah, top right; Jack and Natalie Robson, middle right; and Emily and her mum Kellie Morson, bottom right.
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Education Week is an annual celebration of education across Australia, where students, parents, carers, teachers and school communities are encouraged to celebrate and share ideas under a different theme each year.
This year’s theme, Spotlight on STEM, highlights the importance of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, STEM, in our everyday lives, the classroom and beyond.
STEM, a relatively new concept, focuses on closing the knowledge gap between what students learn at school and what is required by employers in an ever-evolving workforce.
In 2015, all Australian education ministers agreed to the National STEM School Education Strategy 2016-2026, to support a long-term change agenda.
It aims to ensure students have a stronger foundation in STEM,
in both explicit teaching and through a cross-disciplinary approach, and are inspired to take on more challenging STEM subjects.
Today’s teachers use an inquirybased approach when teaching STEM, with nine principles as a guide to engage students and reflect what’s happening in the ‘real world’ – use inquiry-based learning; solve real-world problems; teach integrated STEM learning; equip and empower teachers; create partnerships between schools, industry and community; engage parents and families; use technology as an enabler; differentiate for different levels; and link STEM education to 21st century learning.
Inquiry-based learning also promotes social interaction, exploration, argumentation and reasoning, and positive attitudes to failure as part of the problemsolving process.
STEM education complements
the development of 21st century skills.
It is predicted future workers will spend more than twice as much time on job tasks requiring science, maths and critical thinking, than today.
There are many STEM initiatives in schools and the wider community for students of all ages, including the Science and Engineering Challenge.
A national program, there are challenge days for secondary school students and discovery days for primary school students, across every state and territory in Australia.
About 350 Wimmera students participated in the challenge when it was staged in Horsham in 2022, when a team from Dimboola Primary School beat the national record in a water turbine challenge.
Education Week runs from May 13 to 17 across Victoria.
Dimboola Memorial Secondary College year-11
Sally Sellens and Indy Ward have been experimenting with the mammalian diving reflex, MDR, during their classes with teacher Marianne Tellbach. The MDR is the response all mammals have when exposed to cold water – a slowing heart rate and constricting blood vessels in the feet, legs, hands and arms. Athletes use the MDR to their advantage, strategically incorporating it into training regimens, as it can reduce muscle soreness and optimise the recovery process.
Picture: PAUL CARRACHERLutheran School’s community is buzzing – it’s a matter of weeks until the new school building is ready to move into.
A combination of $1.1-million of government funding and careful financial planning over a few years has brought the plan for contemporary learning spaces to fruition.
School principal Damon Prenzler said the new build replaces facilities that date back to the 1970s.
“This is far more fitting with contemporary education – it allows for flexibility of learning and better caters for the needs of our students.
“Half the school has been removed and rebuilt, it now includes four classrooms, a central collaborative space, kitchen, office areas, storage and toilet facilities.
“It’s a fantastic facility for students and their learning, and hopefully it will serve the community for years to come.”
Nhill Lutheran School offers Auslan in its alternative language program, specialised music and arts, Christian studies, and cooking each week under the Stephanie Alexan-
der Kitchen Garden Program. We have some little garden beds the children tend to, and we use some of that produce in our cooking program,” Mr Prenzler said.
“We also have some animals on-site, it’s been a staple of chickens – we use the eggs in cooking, too – frogs, fish, a bearded dragon, a rabbit, lambs and goats.
“A lot of our students live on farms, but some don’t, so it’s good for them to learn how to care for our animals.
“Some of the animals offer a therapeutic benefit, too.”
The school has an enrolment of more than 60 students across its four classrooms.
The school community is also looking forward to its amalgamation with Dimboola and Horsham Lutheran schools to become Wimmera Lutheran College.
“We are really excited by the upcoming amalgamation,” Mr Prenzler said.
“It will be so beneficial to our community, from being more streamlined with administration to being able to offer our students more resources.”
The schools will amalgamate in time for the 2025 school year.
• Small school environment where your child’s name is known by everyone
• Our DMSC bus runs from Horsham each day
• Drones are part of the elective program
• Pottery is a popular part of Art
• Music tuition available to all students
• State of the art Science labs and sporting facilities
• Rated as an Influence School in 2023
• Strong value-added growth in all NAPLAN results from Year 7 to Year 9
• Strong median VCE study scores for the past seven years
A SMALL SCHOOL MAKING A BIG DIFFERENCE FOR OUR STUDENTS
Saturday, May 25 - tours of the school start at 1.30pm with light refreshments available. RSL commemorative service at 3.30pm officiated by the RSL State President – Mr Rob Webster Memorabilia on display and commemorative merchandise available for purchase.
Official dinner at 6pm – fully booked
Catholic schools in the Diocese of Ballarat participated in Catholic Education Week under the theme of ‘be joyful in hope, patient in affliction and faithful in prayer’ – Romans 12:12.
Ss Michael and John’s Primary School religious education leader Ally Brennan said this year’s events coincided with a significant milestone for the diocese.
“We’ve been celebrating Catholic Education Week, but also celebrating 150 years of Catholic education in the Ballarat diocese, which includes Horsham, Ararat, Nhill and Stawell,” she said.
“We had a different theme each day with activities all week, and finished with a big celebration combined with St Brigid’s, sharing our connection in Catholic education.”
Catholic Education Week is an annual opportunity for Catholic schools to cele-
brate their distinctive ethos and mission with their school and wider communities.
In 2024, 52 primary schools and 11 secondary colleges are educating more than 18,500 students and employ more than 2500 teachers and staff across the diocese, from Mildura in the north, Portland in the south and west to Edenhope and Nhill.
Catholic Education Week ran from April 29 until May 3.
Hopetoun’s St Joseph’s Primary School principal
Cynthia Maiden won recognition as an outstanding contributor to Catholic education in the Diocese of Ballarat.
Ms Maiden was one of three educators and leaders to be presented with a Spirit of Catholic Education Award in enhancing family engagement, governance and stewardship at a Catholic Education Week awards and dinner in Ballarat earlier this month.
During the past 10 years, Ms Maiden has worked to nurture relationships across the Hopetoun community, leading to
engagement with families and the wider community.
This includes collegial relationships with Hopetoun P-12 College and early childhood facilities, working together to attract teachers, staff and families to the 600-strong township.
Ms Maiden has shown small numbers in a school – St Joseph’s has about 30 students – does not equate to small contributions.
The parents group raised almost $9000 at its New Year’s Eve fundraiser this year.
Horsham St Brigid’s College’s finance and compliance team was also one of 17 nominated for the same award.
Horsham College is setting the standard for educational excellence with comprehensive subject offerings and specialised programs, including in academics and sports.
Horsham College also offers a broad and inclusive curriculum that empowers all students to succeed.
Boasting experienced educators, modern facilities and a supportive learning environment, the college ensures every student has an opportunity to thrive and achieve their goals.
Catering to the diverse interests and talents of students, expressions of interest for the college’s highly sought-after Select Entry Accelerated Learning, SEAL, program, AFL Academy and Basketball Academy have opened for 2025.
SEAL is designed for academically gifted and motivated students, offering an enriched curriculum that challenges and inspires learners to reach their full potential.
Students engage in accelerated coursework, critical thinking projects and leadership opportunities, preparing them for success in tertiary education and beyond.
Aspiring athletes with a passion for Australian Rules Football can hone their skills and compete at a high level in the AFL Academy.
Under the guidance of experienced coaches, students receive elite training, access to state-ofthe-art facilities, and opportunities to showcase their talent on the field.
For basketball enthusiasts, the Basketball Academy provides a platform for skill development, tactical training and competitive play.
Whether students aspire to compete at a professional level or simply enjoy the sport, the academy fosters teamwork, discipline and a love for the game.
Horsham College assistant principal Shannon Argall said the specialised programs exemplified the college’s commitment to providing holistic education that catered to the diverse needs and interests of students.
“We are excited to invite expressions of interest from motivated students who are eager to excel academically and pursue their passions in sports,” he said.
Mr Argall said alongside the abundance of opportunities within a large school, there was a steadfast commitment to investing in the wellbeing of all students.
“While we acknowledge the advantages our size affords in terms of opportunities, our primary strength lies in our capacity to foster meaningful relationships and maintain an environment that is inclusive and welcoming to all families,” he said.
For more information about Horsham College and its specialised programs, including the SEAL Program, AFL Academy and Basketball Academy, or to organise a private tour, people can visit website www.horsham-college.vic.edu.au/ enrolment/ or call Horsham College on 5381 710.
Victoria’s free Get into AgSTEM education program is underway, with schools across the state participating.
Agriculture Victoria community education manager Anna-Leisa Vietz said the suite of practical and hands-on free workshops were popular with schools because they linked directly to the Victorian school curriculum.
“Our Get into AgSTEM workshops are suitable for students from grade five through to VCE and our delivery model is very flexible,” she said.
“We can deliver them from AgriBio, our main research centre in Bundoora, or any of our regional SmartFarms, with some select workshops available online.”
Students visiting research centres gain firsthand experience in a professional research facility where science and technology are applied to agricultural scenarios.
“Our workshops can also be incorporated into events such as Local Learning and Employment Network, LLEN, events, STEM Idols in Mildura, or the upcoming Food and Fibre Day in Dookie,” Ms Vietz said.
“The feedback is always excellent as students enjoy using high-tech tools and discovering how our scientists conduct research.
“At our Horsham SmartFarm recently, we ran ‘Get into Digital Agriculture’ for Murtoa College’s year 11 agriculture science class and a ‘Get into Genes – PCR’ workshop for Horsham College’s year-12 biology class.”
Get into Digital Agriculture explores how remote sensing technology can be used to collect, upload and analyse farm related data.
Students assemble soil moisture sensors and use python programming language to access and analyse data.
Get into Genes – PCR is a year-12 level workshop where students learn how on-farm efficiency is improved using DNA related techniques and applications. Students practise pipetting for DNA replication and interpretation of DNA profiles.
People can visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/support-and-resources/education/get-into-agstem or email getintoagstem@agriculture.vic.gov.au for more information about the programs.
Real Schools founder and chief executive Adam Voigt addressed hundreds of teachers at a West Grampians Network conference last week, focusing on themes of student engagement and human behaviour.
Mr Voigt boasts a portfolio of international speaking appointments, gained a principal position at the age of 35, and led a TED Talk at the inaugural TEDx Darwin event.
Horsham Primary School principal Chris Walter said more than 400 teachers and education support staff attended the conference in Horsham, to hear Mr Voigt speak about the restorative future of student engagement and understanding human behaviour.
“It was all about engaging kids in their learning,” Mr Walter said.
“Mr Voigt spoke and hosted a workshop, and we also heard from three other school principals who ran workshops for people as well.”
Principals Ben Tait, Horsham Special School, Russell Marland, Stawell Primary School, and Anthony Cain, Stawell West Primary School, spoke about engaging the reluctant learner, parent engagement and using school-wide positive behaviour support as a wholeschool approach, and deliberate changes in teaching and learning to raise student engagement.
“The speakers were fantastic, very engaging,” Mr Walter said.
“Mr Voigt was easy to listen to and really practical.
“He has some great strategies teachers can incorporate into their classrooms straight away.”
A child-led learning approach was shown during Mr Voigt’s presentation, using audience members to illustrate the use of questioning by students to lead lessons.
“It gives you teaching points you
can use, rather than coming up with all these plans that you think kids want to know and need to know about, when in actual fact they have that information there already,” Mr Walter said.
“You’re getting feedback from the kids straight away.”
Primary, secondary and special school representatives from Halls Gap, Black Hill, Horsham, Great
Western, Minyip, Jeparit, Natimuk, Ballarat North, Marnoo, Apsley, Beulah, Dimboola, Donald, Stawell, Edenhope, Hopetoun, Goroke, Rainbow, St Arnaud, Kaniva, Murtoa, Warracknabeal and Dimboola attended the one-day event.
“It was great to bring everyone together,” Mr Walter said.
All students in government schools will receive free breakfast, following the announcement of a $21.1-million investment in the 2024-25 State Budget to extend breakfast program funding.
The School Breakfast Club program already supports 1000 schools across the state, providing healthy breakfasts, as well as lunches, snacks and take-home food packs for students experiencing disadvantage or financial strain.
This expansion will see 150 additional schools invited to join the program at the start of next year – expected to support up to 200,000 students – before rolling out to remaining schools from June 2025.
The program expansion comes on top of the Labor government’s $287-million investment to help ease cost-of-living pressures for school families.
Going to school hungry has a big impact on a child’s learning – affecting their behaviour, ability to concentrate and ability to retain information.
Education Minister Ben Carroll said it was important students were fuelled with healthy, nutritious meals.
“Whether it’s breakfast, lunch or a healthy snack, school breakfast clubs make a huge difference to students whose families need a little extra support to give their children nutritious meals that power their school day,” he said. Since 2016, the program has delivered more than 40 million healthy and nutritious meals, as well as practical cooking classes for families at 100 schools – building food literacy, increasing daily consumption of fresh fruit and vegetables, and supporting cheap and healthy meal planning.
The roll-out marks the first time all government school students will be provided with free breakfasts.
298 Campus 38 Baillie St
Horsham 3400
Ph (03) 5382 1534
Rasmussen Campus 2B Rasmussen Rd
Horsham 3400
Ph (03) 5382 3200
horsham.ps@education.vic.gov.au
Horsham West 24 Hillary St Horsham 3400
Ph (03) 5382 1285
Haven Campus 4362 Henty Hwy
Haven 3401
Ph (03) 5382 3204
horsham.west.ps@education.vic.gov.au
At Horsham Primary School, we feel that we have the balance just right.
Our teaching and learning programs focus on achieving academic excellence, are flexible to meet the needs of all students, and intensive to ensure high level results are achieved.
Our student support programs develop the skills and abilities of each child whilst catering for their needs beyond the classroom.
Our staff are passionate, hard-working and committed to making a difference in the lives of our students.
We know that each of our students have different abilities and experiences that they bring with them, as well as varying levels of readiness to learn. Something that our school is proud of is the level of support that we provide for all students.
Teaching and Learning
• CAFÉ Reading/Structured Literacy
• Systematic Synthetic Phonics
• Investigations – learning through exploration and play (Prep)
• 6+1 Traits of Writing
• Balanced approach to teaching mathematics
- Explicit instruction
- Real life problem solving tasks
• Maths Intervention Program
• Levelled Literacy Support
• Speech Therapy Assistant Program
• Specialist Programs
- Art
- Science and Technology
- PE
- Music
- Auslan
• Yr. 4-6 iPad Program
Student Leadership opportunities
• School Captains
• House Captains
• Junior School Council
• Student Leadership Program
Student Support
• Student Mentoring
• Student Wellbeing Support
• Breakfast Program • Buddy Program
• Cultural Experiences Program
Extracurricular
• Halls Gap Zoo Excursion
• Roses Gap Camp
• Sovereign Hill Excursion
• Warrnambool Camp
• Melbourne Urban Camp
• Regional and State sporting events
• School Production
• Junior Concert
• Swimming Program
Community Involvement
• Parent Classroom Helpers
• Parents Club
• School Council
Horsham West and Haven Primary School is renowned for its commitment to evidence-based teaching practices that foster academic excellence and holistic development. At the heart of its pedagogical approach is Structured Literacy and Direct Instruction, ensuring that students receive systematic and explicit instruction in reading, writing, numeracy and language skills.
The school prides itself on its knowledge-based curriculum, designed to instil a deep understanding of foundational concepts across various subject areas. With a passionate and dedicated staff, Horsham West and Haven Primary School excel in challenging and engaging learners through meticulously planned lessons tailored to individual needs. Teachers inspire students to reach their full potential through unwavering dedication, nurturing a love for learning that extends beyond the classroom.
Teaching and Learning
• Systematic Synthetic Phonics
• Explicit Direct Instruction
• Structured Literacy
• Tutor Learning Initiative
• Spelling Mastery
• Writing Revolution
• Hands-on Practical Numeracy Lessons
• Knowledge-Based Concept Curriculum
• BYOD iPad Program Years 4-6
• Speech Trained Assistance Program
• Resilence Rights & Respectful Relationships
• Literacy Learning Specialist
• Numeracy Learning Specialist
• Assistant Principal - Teaching and Learning Specialist Programs
• Visual Arts
• Performing Arts
• Physical Education
• German
• STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Mathematics)
• ICT (Information, Communication, Technology)
• Year 3-6 Sporting Program
Student Support
• Wellbeing Officers x 2
• Behaviour Support Officer
• Buddy Program
• School Wide Positive Behaviours
• Hands-on Learning
• Assistant Principal - Student Wellbeing and Engagement
• Disability Inclusion
Student Leadership Opportunities
• School Captains
• House Captains
• Junior School Council Captains
• Education Captains
• Student Leadership Program
Extra-Curricular Activities
• Adventure Camp Experiences
• School Production
• Choir
• Cultural Activities
• Aero Schools
• Swimming Program
• Local, Regional & State Sporting Events
• Excursions
• Incursions
• Parents’ Club Activities
Community Involvement
• Open Days
• Parent Classroom Helpers
• School Council
• Parents’ Club
Horsham’s St Brigid’s College is expanding through student numbers and another major capital works project.
The multi-million-dollar project will provide new students amenities, a food studies facility, a student lounge, refurbishment of wellbeing areas and a presentation space, all in time for the 2025 school year.
This follows the completion of a 2024 project, which included the addition of a state-of-the-art STEAM Centre in 2020, and in 2021, a new outdoor hub space with multi-game court and a major shaded seating area.
Completed and planned capital works have added contemporary and innovative indoor and outdoor learning spaces for the benefit of the school community, now and in the future.
Awarded the Wimmera Regional Sports As-
sembly Sports School of the Year in 2023, St Brigid’s College has a strong sports following, with weekly sporting activities including football, netball, athletics, swimming, cross country, volleyball, tennis, cricket and golf.
The choices are many and varied and offer students great exposure to sport in general – many students have excelled, competing at national level in basketball, netball and AFL.
This year, a squad of twelve year-nine and 10 girls will attend the three-day national All Schools Netball Challenge in Bendigo.
Enrolments for 2025 are open and first round placements close on June 7. Enrolments for 2026 and beyond are welcome at any time.
Families can enjoy a private tour of the college by calling the school on 5382 3545.
Lani Coburn is East Grampians Health Service’s (EGHS) rst Health Service Assistant to be employed at 70 Lowe St Residential Aged Care Facility, in March 2024.
Lani is a Year 12 student at Marian College, Ararat, who completed the iVET HLT33115 Certi cate III in Health Service Assistant course in 2023. This course is based at Ararat College and o ered to local students who attend Ararat College, Marian College and Stawell Secondary College. It is a self-paced course that can be completed within a 2-year period. With a studious approach to her learning, Lani completed all requirements of the course in 1-year and is now utilising her skills in her part-time job as a Health Service Assistant. EGHS is a strong supporter of the Certi cate III in Health Service Assistance course, which has been o ered at Ararat College since 2018. It is taught by experienced registered nurse, Michelle Moors, who utilises East Grampians Health Service’s practical laboratory to teach students clinical skills related to Provide First Aid and safe patient handling.
It is recognised that early industry engagement with secondary school students is the key to engaging students in careers they may be considering. EGHS’ Training and Development Manager, Claire Sladdin, is regularly invited to meet with the Certi cate III in Health Service Assistant students to discuss career pathways in nursing and healthcare overall. This includes being employed part-time within schoolfriendly hours as a Health Service Assistant, following successful completion of the rst-year requirements of the course.
With endorsement from iVET, EGHS mapped the course criteria to develop a Health Service Assistant position, encompassing the skills Health Service Assistants can deliver in providing care for consumers who reside in residential aged care facilities. Lani has a keen interest in nursing and medicine, completing work experience at EGHS
in Year 10 which then led to her enrolment in the Certi cate III in Health Service Assistance course and her subsequent employment at EGHS.
Lani describes her new job to other students as “rewarding and enjoyable” and feels as though she is making a di erence. She has learnt the importance of hand hygiene in maintaining infection control and mostly utilises her skills related to safe patient handling, in caring for consumers at 70 Lowe St. Lani is mentored by Endorsed Enrolled Nurse, Leah McCarthy, whom she works alongside during her rostered shifts. Her shifts are after school and on weekends, suiting Lani’s busy schedule and Year 12 commitments.
EGHS is thrilled to o er students, like Lani, the opportunity to work in the health-industry from a young age. By investing in members of our community, EGHS continues to “grow our own”. Lani is an excellent ambassador for EGHS and for fellow students to consider the Certi cate III in Health Service Assistant course o ered within our local community, as a pathway to a health-related career. Claire Sladdin Training and Development Manager
Horsham
Town Hall’s SPARK Arts Education Program offers an in-house cultural package to schools year-round, staging a variety of performances and showing regional and travelling exhibitions.
Using
The program covers a wide curriculum base of visual arts, performance, drama, literature, music and hands-on workshops in the areas of environment and sustainability; gender and society; resilience and social connection; and First Nations, First People.
Workshops and performances in the SPARK program have resources available to complement classroom teaching.
Two different packages are available, one includes a 2024 performance, incursion-excursion workshop with visual, drama or performance artist and gallery visit; the second includes
an incursion-excursion workshop with visual, drama or performance artist and gallery visit. All 2024 SPARK performances are book now, pay later, while gallery and performing arts centre tours are free.
This year’s performances include Grug, The Gruffalo and You Are A Doughnut, with exhibitions Kaleidoscope, NAIDOC, Australian female photography and Worlds of Infinite Possibility, booked in throughout the year.
SPARK Arts Education Program is funded by the Department of Education in partnership with Horsham Town Hall and Horsham Regional Art Gallery, and a conditional travel subsidy contribution for schools is available.
Bookings are now open with many free or lowcost workshops. People can call Cindy Francis on 5382 9578 or Jacinda O’Sullivan on 5382 9575 for more information.
Business owners across the Grampians region are embracing the ability of work experience and work placements to identify secondary college students with industry potential.
Data from Central Grampians Local Learning and Employment Network, LLEN, showed 151 local businesses currently listed on a statewide portal to provide young people with handson learning opportunities.
Central Grampians LLEN chief executive Jane Moriarty said five students had gained apprenticeships in Ararat and Stawell after taking part in structured workplace learning, SWL, placements or work experience with local employers.
“With a number of industries experiencing statewide skills shortages, we have definitely noticed a rise in businesses finding future apprentices through work placement,” she said.
“While the goal of SWL and work experience is to provide students with practical on-the-job experience, employers also benefit by being able to identify young people who have the attributes needed to succeed in their industries.
“In the past year, local students have gained apprenticeships in hairdressing, administration and trades, all thanks to employers who have provided them with opportunities to show what they are capable of.”
Buloke Electrical owner Dave Turn-
NEXT STEP: Jayden Kobelt, left, is on his way to becoming a qualified plumber after a successful SWL placement with Ararat Maintenance Plumbing owner Adrian Couwenberg.
er said an SWL placement led to him employing former Marian College student Jed Murray as a full-time apprentice after just one week of hosting him.
“I realised pretty early on that Jed had good potential. He showed he was keen to learn, and I liked how he was always asking questions,” Mr Turner said.
“Jed’s family did a great job helping him to identify his interests and I’m happy that I can help set him up on a
pathway that will allow him to pursue a career he enjoys.”
Jed said he had always been interested in a trade-based profession and was looking forward to continuing to progress his career.
“I like the physical work that’s involved in being an electrician, and I really enjoy moving around to different job locations,” he said.
“It’s a great job to have and I’m looking forward to getting my machinery operator tickets so I
can expand my skills a bit more.”
Adrian Couwenberg from Ararat Maintenance Plumbing also found his latest apprentice, Jayden Kobelt, through the SWL program.
Jayden initially completed a fourday SWL placement that led to casual employment in the school holidays and eventually a full-time apprenticeship.
“The pre-apprenticeship skills Jayden gained from completing his VET course and his willingness to
learn really stood out to me. He has definitely shown me the value of having an apprentice to help out with the busy workload of the business,” Mr Couwenberg said.
Business owners interested in hosting local secondary college students in their workplace can call Central Grampians LLEN partnerships and pathways co-ordinator Nerissa Gee on 5352 3266 to learn more about the opportunities available.
Stawell West Primary School boasts inviting spaces, differentiated and supported holistic learning, responsive teachers and a therapy dog in its everyday program, as well as camps and sports among occasional events throughout the school year.
A community school for students from foundation to year six, it’s set in extensive, attractive grounds with shaded areas, adventure playgrounds, spaces for football, netball, basketball and beach volleyball, and a BMX pump track.
Its contemporary indoor spaces support innovative learning, and wellequipped classrooms ensure each student has access to a laptop or iPad, with the benefit of an education support officer in each classroom.
The school community takes pride in its learning, wellbeing and engagement programs, which are delivered in a safe, supportive environment by a team of dedicated educators to ensure students reach their full potential.
Structured literacy blocks focus on students to become confident and competent literacy learners, who are able to demonstrate and articulate what excellent readers and writers do.
Numeracy lessons provide students with a range of different approaches to put into practice – the four proficiencies of fluency, problem solving, reasoning, and working mathematically.
Differentiated tasks and problems connected to real-life situations en-
hance the numeracy program as does the use of technology and concrete materials. The aim is for students’ literacy and numeracy performance and understanding to match excellent and confident learners.
To support and enrich the curriculum learning areas and ensure the deep learning of capabilities, other initiatives are provided – junior school council, sport house captains, swimming and water safety, bike education, camps and excursions, cultural ac-
tivities, interschool sport, art, sewing club, respectful relationships student wellbeing program, reading intervention program and speech pathologist services.
Complementing student wellbeing, Grip the therapy dog has been part of the school community since mid2021. He has spent most of his life in schools after completing his qualifications with Annie’s Dog Training in Ararat.
Grip brings joy to students and pro-
vides the scientifically proven release of endorphins the human-animal bond brings, boosting student wellbeing and learning outcomes.
All Stawell West Primary School stakeholders – parents, carers and community members – are encouraged to be involved at the school. From occasional events such as sporting carnivals, excursions and celebrations, to everyday activities like breakfast club, everyone is welcome to be involved in the school community.
Pre-service teachers, along with nursing, midwifery and social work students, will benefit from a Federal Government payment during mandatory placements.
Higher education and VET students will be means-tested, and those eligible will receive a $319.50 Prac Payment each week, benchmarked to the single Austudy rate.
Paid placements will help ease the teaching and care workforce skills shortages identified in the government’s Employment White Paper, and assist more students to start and complete their studies.
Education Minister Jason Clare said this was practical support for practical training.
He said the government would work with higher education and vocational education sectors to introduce and deliver this new support, from July 2025.
The Federal Government will cut the student debt of about three million Australians following its budget announcement last week.
In response to the Australian Universities Accord, the government will cap the HELP indexation rate to be the lower of either the Consumer Price Index or the Wage Price Index, with effect from June 1, 2023. The government will backdate the relief. It is expected to wipe about $3-billion of debt.
Starting out in Environmental Services eight years ago, Narelle applied herself to further training and is currently undertaking Bachelor of Nursing studies.
Consistently applying herself to RNH’s strategic objective and demonstrating a commitment to the organisation’s vision of creating strong, healthy and vibrant communities, Narelle has actively promoted wellness and healthy ageing.
As co-winner of the 2023 Leo Casey Scholarship, Narelle embraces the scholarship goals of increasing the capability and capacity of RNH’s workforce to deliver high quality and safe care.
The scholarship holds true to the values of Leo Casey who advocates life-long learning and developing knowledge and skills to enrich the lives of others, particularly in a rural health setting.
RNH is so much more than ‘just a hospital’, offering its teams ongoing educational and upskilling opportunities.
Take Kylie O’Connor for example... Previously working at RNH for 20 years as part of the Environmental Services team, Kylie recently returned to the organisation after taking some time out and is now working towards a formal qualification as a Cook.
“I’ve worked in the industry my whole life and when Workplace Trainer and Careers Advisor Jo Fillippe approached the team with some upskilling options, I decided ‘why not?’ and took up the opportunity to get a qualification,” Kylie said.
Now completing a Certificate 3 in Commercial Cookery apprenticeship, her day consists of preparing meals as part of the RNH cook-chill process and planning, as well as catering for functions.
“It’s consistent,” she said. Largely completing the course via on-thejob training, Kylie will be visited by an assessor 2-3 times annually and, impressively, has already completed all the written work. She is now required to plan and prepare meals for an aged care setting using six different cookery methods. Kylie is enjoying the change of pace and working towards receiving the qualification.
Alower cost, slightly smaller alternative to the expensive North American ‘full size pick-up’ is about to hit the market.
GWM’s new Cannon Alpha range, in top-spec form, will be Australia’s first petrol-electric hybrid 4x4 ute. Falling size-wise between a regular one-tonne ute, such as the Toyota HiLux, and a big bopper like the Ford F-150, the three grades of dual-cab Cannon Alpha range will be priced from $51,990 for the entry lux diesel model, $57,990 for the ultra diesel model and $64,990 for the hybrid, all drive-away.
Once on-road costs are factored in, the Cannon Alpha will be in direct competition with the latest Mitsubishi Triton that is pitched from $50,940 to $63,840, before on-road costs, for an all-diesel line-up.
Diesel-powered models run a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine rated at 135kW and 480Nm, compared with the Triton’s 2.4-litre
outputs of 150kW and 470Nm. This engine is new to GWM’s range as the smaller Cannon ute is powered by a two-litre turbo-diesel.
The hybrid’s two-litre turbopetrol and electric motor combine for a punchy 255kW-648Nm to fall between a Ford Ranger V6 diesel, 184kW-600Nm, and Ford F-150 V6 petrol, 298kW-678Nm.
Both diesel Cannon Alpha variants consume a claimed 8.9 litres per 100 kilometres, with the hybrid rated at a surprisingly thirstier 9.8 litres per 100 kilometres, suggesting the electrification is intended for performance rather than efficiency.
All are equipped with a nine-speed automatic transmission and ondemand four-wheel-drive system with selectable high and low range through a 4x4 transfer case from respected manufacturer Borg Warner, which GWM says makes the Alpha ‘as capable off-road as it is on it’.
An electronic rear differential lock is standard, with the high-grade diesel
and hybrid adding an electronic front locker.
Driving modes comprise standard, eco and sport, with the hybrid capable of full electric driving for a short distance.
Maximum braked towing capacity for both powertrains is 3500kg with payload ranging between 735kg and 821kg depending on vartiant.
The Alpha weighs in roughly 400kg heavier than the smaller Cannon at 2400kg+ model dependent.
Diesel-only lux trim comes standard with dusk-sensing LED headlights including auto high beam, fixed side steps, twin 12.3-inch infotainment and digital instrument displays with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus a six-speaker sound system.
Also standard are dual-zone climate control, synthetic leather-look upholstery, and a six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat.
Safety features include a 360-degree camera system with ‘clear chassis’ view, autonomous emergency brak-
ing, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring with front and rear cross-traffic detection, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, and tyre pressure monitoring.
Ultra trim, with diesel engine, adds a 60:40 split-opening tailgate, panoramic sunroof, auto-folding side mirrors, self-dimming interior mirror and LED front fog lights.
Inside are genuine leather-accented interior upholstery, heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats with eightway electric adjustment for the driver and six-way electric adjustment for the passenger, as well as a bigger 14.6-inch touchscreen and wireless phone charger.
Going for the hybrid extends the ultra’s feature set with a heated steering wheel and side mirror position memory, two-way power-adjustable rear seats with heating and ventilation, and a dedicated wireless phone charger for rear occupants, plus 10-speaker Infinity premium sound system and 64-colour ambient lighting.
Driver assist technologies also step up to include a head-up display and automatic parking assistants enabled by upgraded parking sensors.
The Alpha is GWM’s largest vehicle to date.
Larger dimensions allow for a roomier cabin than the regular Cannon, which has a novel and versatile feature on ultra variants in its 60:40 split tailgate which can be opened in two ways. A short press gives partial opening while a longer press on the same button opens the full tailgate, which also has a soft-open feature.
The Alpha, which has a likeness to GWM’s Tank 500 SUV, has what could be described as an imposing look with a bluff truck-like front, large grille with centred GWM roundel, big headlights, a bonnet scoop on the leading edge, splashes of chrome, deep wheel arch flares and a generic dual-cab ute profile and rear styling. – Haitham Razagui and Peter Barnwell
Sales figures released by industry statistician VFACTS for April show the Australian new-car market is running in overdrive, but the good news celebrated by most importers is not shared by sellers of certain models within each segment that trail the pack by a significant margin.
Whether these vehicles are failing to ignite the flame of interest with the buying public due to price, age, appeal, or a combination of factors, is subjective, but the numbers speak for themselves.
Last week, GoAuto looked at the cold hard data to see which passenger car models thrive, and which are unlikely to survive.
In future ‘Market Insight’ reports, GoAuto will analyse sportscar, SUV, and light commercial vehicle sales splits.
In a micro segment that has just two saleable entrants this year, there is a gulf of 1163 deliveries between the top-selling Kia Picanto, with 1351 sales year-to-date, and the Fiat 500, with 188 sales.
The slightly sub-$30,000 light passenger car segment is also slim with just four competitors, among which there is a difference of 3077 sales between the top and bottom entrants – the MG 3 with 3779 unit sales yearto-date and the once-popular Toyota Yaris with just 702 sales.
Raise the price somewhat, and the light passenger car more than $30,000 segment sees far fewer sales with a tighter differential between high and low.
Just 603 sales separate the top-selling Mini hatch, 607, from the bottomrung Citroen C3, four.
The popular sub-$40,000 small passenger car segment continues to bubble along nicely.
The Toyota Corolla, a perennial favourite of the Australian new-vehicle market, leads the pack with year-todate sales of 8508 units, 8308 deliveries ahead of the underrated Skoda Scala, 200.
In the dearer small passenger car more than $40,000 sector, overall sales are rather slow.
The best-selling model in the field,
sold year-to-date, compared with the top-selling Kia Picanto with 1351 sales.
the all-electric MG 4, managed a modest 1181 sales to the end of April and – excluding the last few examples of discontinued Mercedes-Benz B-Class and Renault Megane models – the slowest seller was the Peugeot 308 with 59 deliveries, a difference of 1122 units.
Sales of sub-$60,000 medium passenger cars favour the Toyota Camry, 6307, by a margin of 6275 units over the 32 Honda Accords sold – the model is undergoing a generational change this month.
The higher-priced medium passenger car more than $60,000 segment sees the Tesla Model 3 with 6865 sales, smash the Genesis G70 with 13 sales, a 6852 unit difference.
Australia’s once flourishing sub$70,000 large passenger car segment now has just two entrants – the Skoda Superb, 85, and Citroen C5 X, 12 –separated by 73 sales.
The premium large passenger car more than $70,000 segment has 12 entrants, of which the best and worst sellers are separated by a margin of 229 units.
Leading this part of the market is the BMW 5 Series, with 231 sold yearto-date, while the wooden spoon goes to both the Jaguar XF and Maserati Ghibli with six units a piece.
The hydrogen-powered Toyota Mirai, with two deliveries, has been excluded from this analysis due to its experimental nature and unavailability for retail sale.
Sales of upper large passenger cars are topped by the Porsche Panamera with 16 delivered year-to-date, over the Mercedes-Benz EQS with two – a difference of 14 units.
However, combining BMW 7 Series and i7 sales – the same car in petrol or electric guises – puts the 7er at the top with 10 and 14 units respectively,
Peugeot has quietly introduced a massive circa $25,000 discount for its E-2008 electric small SUV, the model now available from $39,990 drive-away compared with the list price of $59,990 before on-road costs.
It means the battery electric 2008 temporarily undercuts the list price of an equivalent petrol-powered GT variant ($43,397 before on-road costs) and, once on-road costs are factored in, the entry-level Allure petrol ($38,945 + ORC).
This is before any incentives for electric models are applied, such as Queensland’s $6000 rebate, which potentially puts a petrol-powered Peugeot 2008 even further behind in the value stakes, not to mention Fringe Benefits Tax breaks for those purchasing via novated lease.
Deeply discounting the E-2008 suggests the French brand’s Australian
importer, Inchcape, has excess stock it needs to urgently shift ahead of the arrival of the facelifted E-2008, likely due in Australian showrooms before the end of the year.
As a result, the highly specified, European-built Peugeot E-2008 is now tied with the Chinese-made MG ZS EV Excite for title of Australia’s cheapest electric SUV.
Peugeot introduced its E-2008 to the local market last year, the model going on sale here in top GT trim only, more than four years after its introduction in Europe.
Not surprisingly, a facelifted E-2008 is due soon, the model mirroring the petrol-powered 2008 in receiving refreshed looks, updated technology, more power, and a 60km increase in driving range.
“This 100 percent electric compact SUV is the ideal companion for an
alluring drive. For a limited time, you can get behind the ‘wheel of the 100 per cent E-2008 GT SUV from an unmissable $39,990 drive-away,” said a statement on Peugeot Australia’s public website.
“This offer is only available for a limited time and while stocks last. To take advantage of this unmissable offer, purchase and take delivery of your new or demo MY23 Peugeot E-2008 GT SUV between May 1 and June 30, 2024.”
Since going on sale in September last year, Peugeot has delivered just 97 examples of the E-2008, or roughly 34 per cent of all 2008 variants sold.
Cumulative year-to-date sales figures for the Peugeot 2008 tally just 108, ranking the model eighteenth within the bustling sub-$45K small SUV segment.
– Matt Brogan
Ashortage of Hyundai’s potent i30 N hatch has been addressed, with the South Korean importer securing additional stock of the in-demand hot hatch from its Czech factory, which has been struggling to cope with demand.
Hyundai Motor Company Australia, in a statement, announced it had been working hard to secure incremental stock of the i30 N hatch and now had 387 units available on the ground in Australia ready for customer deliveries, with an additional 352 units in production.
Adding to the improved i30 N hatch stock situation is the addition of a ‘comfort pack’ as a no-cost option on i30 N premium variants equipped with a sunroof and dual-clutch automatic transmission.
The front-wheel drive i30 N fivedoor hot hatch lists from $46,200 excluding on-road costs. It has been around for eight years, winning a dedicated enthusiast following partly driven by Hyundai’s annual ‘N’ performance track days, bankrolled by Hyundai Motor Company Australia, that are held at various race circuits around the country.
making the electric version of BMW’s flagship limo its better seller in Australia and extending the segment’s split from best to worst performer at 22 units.
Next up is the people mover segment, divided in price at the $70,000 mark.
Under that point, the Kia Carnival wins out with year-to-date sales of 2354, a convincing lead over the Volkswagen Caravelle with just three.
Over $70,000, the people mover segment has the Volkswagen Multivan, with 179 sold, at its pointy end, well ahead of German competitor the allelectric Mercedes-Benz EQV, seven, a difference of 172 units.
To be fairer, combined Mercedes Vito Tour and eVito Tour sales totalled 21 units, just behind the Toyota Granvia’s 26, putting the segment split at 158 deliveries.
– Matt Brogan
Each of these events provides owners the opportunity to drive their cars at high speed, talk about their cars to experts and peers and also sample new features or new models added to the N line-up.
The current i30 N range comprises a strikingly styled sedan variant and three hatch variants, with the five-door accounting for a greater sales volume.
Hyundai closed its South Korean i30 line last year, the source of Australian spec mainstream i30s, and is in the process of changing to Czech-manufactured i30s, which may or may not have an impact on the N models.
Suffice to say, an Hyundai Motor Company Australia spokesperson commented recently that the i30 N hatch would remain in the local line-up ‘for the foreseeable future’.
RUNOUT OFFER: Peugeot introduced its E-2008 to the Australian market last year.
Hart’s early years in the printing field. ‘Bevanart’ is a combination of Bev and Hart’s names.
From humble beginnings as a brush-and-paint signwriter working from a shed at 38 Dollar Avenue, Horsham, Bevanart moved to 142 Firebrace Street in the early 1980s, with a combination of a disposals store specialising in military equipment and 4WD accessories. A factory building was purchased in the late 1980s at 9 Madden Street, opposite the then-Horsham saleyards, and is still the current location of the business. The factory underwent major renovations and extensions in the early 2000s to allow for the installation of new digital printing equipment.
Bevanart has seen some changes in the signage industry in the past 50 years, with the initial brushand-paint method evolving into vinyl graphics. This involved using a vinyl plotter and software, where limited fonts were available, through to now providing full eco-friendly solvent digital printing technology.
Bevanart is a local, family-run business, with Hart and Bev’s two sons Justin and Brad continuing the family tradition of the signage business. Justin started in 1993 and
Wimmera area.
Fill in the blank cells using numbers from
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
From The Weekly Advertiser archives: May 13, 2004 –Horsham McDonald’s and Ararat manager Cameron Evans was preparing to represent Australia at the Olympic Games in Athens. He was one of six store managers to be chosen from 720 Australia-wide to work in the McDonald’s restaurants in the Olympic venue for a month. Mr Cameron had worked at the fast-food chain for 11 years, five years as manager. He was awarded the McDonald’s outstanding store manager award in 2002. The selection process involved managers being judged on how well they performed in the restaurant, based on a list of criteria, as well as on a written essay.
10 years ago: May 14, 2014
Nhill Aviation Heritage Centre announced Member for Lowan Hugh Delahunty would officially open the centre at Nhill Aerodrome on May 23. Chairman Rod Lynch said the project began when community members decided there was a lack of information about Nhill’s aviation history.
Five years ago: May 1, 2019
Horsham motorcycle racing legend Kevin Magee visited his hometown with a world record-holder and Belgian film crew. Blind motorcycle rider Ben Felten broke the land-speed record for a motorcycle ridden blindfolded in 2018, after being coached by Magee.
One year ago: May 3, 2023
Horsham Demons footballer Brad Hartigan played his 300th senior game in Wimmera Football League. Hartigan said his career highlights included playing in 12 premierships, and co-coaching the senior team’s 2014 premiership with Jordyn Burke.
1. What iconic Australian food brand was founded in the late 1800s and has a colourful parrot native to many parts of the country, including the Wimmera, as its emblem?
2. Which bone are babies born without?
3. In 2010, at age 16, who became the youngest person to sail solo, non-stop and unassisted around the world?
4. How many films did Sean Connery play James Bond in?
5. What prominent international leader was quoted as saying, ‘dogs look up to us, cats look down on us. Pigs treat us as equals,’?
6. Which company owns Bugatti, Lamborghini, Audi, Porsche and Ducati?
7. What Wimmera footballer, who started his career at Nhill, played 23 games for VFL-AFL club Richmond during the 1965-66 seasons, coached a 1975 premiership with Ararat in the Wimmera league, and forged a reputation as a prominent regional swimming instructor?
8. Which warrior’s weakness was their heel?
9. On this day in 1889, what event in Paris opened with the recently completed Eiffel Tower serving as its entrance arch?
10. Signifying purity, faith, love, beauty and all the traits that represent the virtue of motherhood, what is the official flower of Mother’s Day?
Answers: 1. Rosella. 2. Kneecap. 3. Jessica Watson. 4. Seven. 5. Winston Churchill. 6. Volkswagen. 7. Wilf Dickeson. 8. -Achil les. 9. The World’s Fair. 10. The carnation.
Our office is at 2 Stawell Road, Horsham. Mail: PO Box 606, Horsham 3402. Telephone: 5382 1351
Website: www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au Email: weeklyadvertiser@team.aceradio.com.au For classified advertisements: 5382 1351 – email: horsham@aceradio.com.au
dturvey@aceradio.com.au; Heidi Higginson: heidih@aceradio.com.au; Lily Olver: lolver@aceradio.com.au Newsroom 5382 1351: Lauren Henry: lhenry@aceradio.com.au; Bronwyn Hastings: bhastings@aceradio.com.au; Georgia Bailey: georgiab@team.aceradio.com.au
ones and they have their own ideas about things.
GEMINI: (May 21-June 21)
1.15.26.36.39.8. Someone you least expected could be instrumental in helping you advance the course of your ambitions. Most of your problems should be solving themselves in a surprising way and romantic overtures are possible. CANCER: (June 22-July 22)
You will have to use the right contacts to advance your hopes and wishes during this period. Do not deal in an underhanded way with people or you will be found out. In money matters luck can play a deciding role.
LEO: (July 23-August 22)
Lucky Colour: Cream Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 2.3.6.9. Lotto Numbers: 2.15.26.34.40.22.
You could feel a little out of place with some new people around you, this is only temporary and your own efforts of assimilating will succeed. Get busy and enjoy life and help someone who could need it.
VIRGO: (August 23-September 23)
Lucky Colour: Lilac
Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 2.3.5.8. Lotto Numbers: 2.15.24.40.33.39.
Love affairs should take a turn for the better and those who like a bit of a gamble could hit the jackpot. Investors should bring in better rewards. However travel could present a problem or two.
LIBRA: (September 24-October 23)
Lucky Colour: Blue
Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 2.6.8.5. Lotto Numbers: 2.15.21.24.10.22.
Friends and partners are more likely to be more loving and considerate and you should be feeling happier. Business ventures could be more profitable than usual.
SCORPIO: (October 24-November 22)
Lucky Colour: Orange
Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 2.3.5.6. Lotto Numbers: 2.15.26.34.40.33.
During this period romance should find you in different places and an interesting offer concerning your career matters. Keep lovers informed of future plans as that will avoid friction later on.
SAGITTARIUS: (November 23-December 20)
Lucky Colour: Dark Blue
Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 4.6.8.5. Lotto Numbers: 4.12.26.35.5.33.
Added opportunity to gain more income is about to be coming true – be ready to take on chances as they come. Romance looks very interesting – some will meet the mate of their dreams and for some, an old flame could reappear.
CAPRICORN: (December 21-January 19)
Lucky Colour: Silver
Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 2.9.5.3. Lotto Numbers: 5.12.26.34.40.33.
Keep a tight record of all your payments and commitments as errors could occur during this period. Better not to promise too much as time might not allow you to do as much as you would like.
AQUARIUS: (January 20-February 19)
Lucky Colour: Cream
Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 2.3.6.5. Lotto Numbers: 1.12.15.26.36.39.
Something surprising will change some of your ideas and even opinions very soon. Keep an open mind and let everyone have their ideas and you will find yourself learning something new.
PISCES: (February 20-March 20)
Lucky Colour: Violet
Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 2.6.9.5. Lotto Numbers: 5.12.26.34.40.33.
Keep your eye on the job and curb that frivolous tendency to let it all hang out, this is a period of caution in all things. You might not succeed in all your endeavors but something can be tried out later on again.
BARNETT, Lila Agnes June
15.06.1936 – 06.05.2024
Passed away peacefully at Wimmera Base Hospital.
Loved Wife of Arthur.
Mother & Mother-in-Law of Les & Janice, Debra & Dennis, Ross, Craig & Carolyn.
Nanna to 8 Grandchildren & 8 Great Grandchildren.
“Forever in Our Hearts, You Will Always be loved”
Horsham & District
Funerals
Dylan & Amity Hartwich 5382 1149
CHRISTOPHER, Maureen
28-6-1943 to 10-5-2024
Passed away peacefully surrounded by family.
Loving wife to Lionel, loved Mother to Mark, Paul, Sara and partners, and adored Grandma and Great Grandma.
Dearly loved and forever in our hearts.
Maureen will be farewelled with a family memorial, by the sea.
DICKSON, Maxwell Stuart
11-8-1930 to 24-4-2024
Proud Commissioner of the Horsham Rural City Council 1995-1997
Passed away peacefully surrounded by family
Loved and devoted Husband of Joan (dec).
Cherished & loved Father of Lorraine (Denholm) & Peter & Father-in-law of Neil.
Adored & loved Grandfather of James, Thomas & Kate.
Sadly missed but forever loved & with us in our hearts.
A special friend to many, now resting in peace.
MACKLEY, Keith William
12-4-1931 to 8-5-2024
Passed away peacefully at Wimmera Base Hospital, aged 93 years.
Adoring partner of Lois.
Loving father and fatherin-law of Stuart & Suzanne; Kay & Brett (dec); Bruce; Craig & Judy.
Grandfather to Tasmene, Gabrielle, Hamish, Natalie, Matthew, Josh, William, Henry and Bridget. Rest In Peace
McINTYRE, Annette
Horsham Patchwork
Quilters send our deepest condolences to Alan, Emma, Cameron & Family on the death of Annette.
She was a much loved and respected member of our group and will be sadly missed.
~ DICKSON, Max ~
The Mayor, Cr Robyn Gulline, Councillors, Chief Executive Officer Sunil Bhalla, Directors and staff of the Horsham Rural City Council express their sincere and deepest sympathy on the recent passing of Max Dickson.
In January 1995 Max Dickson was appointed as a Commissioner of Horsham Rural City Council during council amalgamations for 2 years until council elections in 1997. Peter Fisher and Dr Tony Gregson were also appointed commissioners during this time.
Max served the Horsham community with distinction during council amalgamations and was well known throughout the municipality.
We extend our condolences to Max’s children, Lorraine Denholm and Peter Dickson and their families at this sad time.
WITMITZ, Dennis Victor
Passed away on May 12, 2024 aged 88 years.
Dearly loved husband of Bev.
Loving father and fatherin-law of Geoff & Marg; Rodney & Jenny; Jenny & Ian.
Adored Grandpa to Kristy & Owen, Sam & Steph, and Penny; Cas, Michaela and Bree; Cameron, Tom, Zac & Molly.
Great Grandpa to Sadie and Clarry.
Treasured Memories Now At Peace
DICKSON, Maxwell Stuart
Family & Friends are invited to celebrate the life of Mr Maxwell Stuart Dickson at the St James Anglican Church, 47-55 Collins St Drysdale on FRIDAY (May 17, 2024) at 11am. He will then be laid to rest at the Maddingley Cemetery, Bacchus Marsh, at 4pm.
MACKLEY, Keith William
The funeral of Keith William Mackley will leave the Natimuk Uniting Church on Friday, May 17, 2024 after a service commencing at 1pm for the Natimuk Cemetery.
Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member
WITMITZ, Dennis Victor
The funeral of Dennis Victor Witmitz will leave Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Horsham on Tuesday, May 21, 2024 after a service commencing at 10.30am for the Murtoa Cemetery.
The service may also be viewed online at youtube. com/channel/UCazLsHP0N cC2APLqg5dil0Q
Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member
HARBERGER, Mavis 19-5-2023
The clock of life is wound but once.
And no man has the power to tell just when the hands will stop.
A late or early hour. Now is the only time you own.
Love live toil with a will. Place on faith in tomorrow. For the clock may then be still.
Wish I could give you a hug... Forever in my Heart, Never Forgotten!
Steve Harberger XXX OOO
5-5-2024
It’s hard to believe it’s already been 12 months without you Uncle, Not a day goes by that we don’t think of you, Home isn’t the same without you, the kids are always looking up and talking to you in heaven.
Go the Adelaide Crows! Rest in peace Uncle Barry, love forever and always, Trisha, Jida, Bassy, Nikita, Trevor, Mason & Shakira.
~ BURKHALTER ~ Patricia Elizabeth
The family of Patricia would like to sincerely thank everyone who sent cards and messages to Pat. Thank you to Russell Dunlop for a lovely service. Thank you to the Rupanyup ladies for the refreshments.
The Burkhalter and Carter families
~ TAIG, E ddie ~ 22-10-47 to 7-3-24
On behalf of Joy, Stacey, Kylie and extended family, we would like to take this opportunity to thank friends, family, neighbours, trades and the wider Wimmera community for all of their love, support, kind words and gestures, that have made the passing of Eddie that much easier. The stories, the laughter and the tears have all been shared, and truly appreciated. Thank you all
3 Jack Russell Pups for sale, all vaccinated and microchipped, energetic and ready for their new homes, trained to sit, at 9 weeks old, mchip# 985141007721608/07/06, source# EE192884 Ph 0423182267
4 White Suffolk Ile de France X Ewes, $50 each, expect most to have twins ph 0458014560
5mth old Guinea fowls $25 each Ph 0414851313
6 yr old Thoroughbred Mare, welcome to take on trail, potential hack, show or whatever, easy to catch float etc ph O447275737 Alaskan Malamute pups , Born 21/2/24 Vet checked , microchipped wormed Source number MB168224 Boy 98514007720630. Boy 985141007720631, Girl 985141007720628 $1000 ph Nadine 0429836214
Aust White x Dorper cross ewe lambs, no shearing, crutching or fly problems, excellent 4 legged lawn mowers, will sell in lots of 10 or over Ph 0447275737 for further details
Cocker spaniel pups, 4 tan 1 black& tan 1 black both parents reg with dogs victoria vet checked vaccinated microchipped & wormed ready for their new homes, m/chip# 956000016725032
956000016330824, source# RB185238 Ph 0429912620
Doberman pups, 4x girls black/ tan, 4x boys 3 black/tan and 1 brown/tan, ready to go, m/c # 956000014813157/14702252 /14697789/14699139/14845771 /14850566/14817621/14810773
$2000 Ph 0431982052
Female desexed mini dachshund, I like kids, dogs, cats, I am toilet trained, love walks and snuggles, microchip# 900141000504012, source# MB197522 $1400ono Nhill Ph 0431725487
Goats for sale, very quiet, from $120 each Ph 0427361940
Kelpie x Coolie Pup, ready to go, born 15.10.23, raised with kids, female with white marking, m/chip 953010006206891, source # MB238326, $250 Ph Jo 0410331573
Mini Foxy/Jack Russell pups , 1 female 1 male, vet checked, vacc, wormed, micro chipped, 953010006635905, 953010006635913 Source number is MB116953 Phone 0409350743 or 0458913225 Ph 0409350743
Muscovy ducks, 4-6mnths old $20 each Ph 53542590
Parrots for sale, hand raised, young green cheek conures, extremely friendly, young aviary bred bourkes/ turks Ph 0408535515
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
Concept Ascot caravan, 2006, 18’, pop-top, tare 1420, low kms, kept undercover, regularly serviced, EC, many extras inc, near new full annexe, easy to tow, R3373 $22,000 Ph Ray 0413445347
Goldstream RV Off Road 2007, solar panels, new deep cycle battery, roll out awning, pull out flys each end, outside shower, new porta loo, full annexe, queen bed, RC air con, hot water, full oven with grill, 3 gas burners, electric fridge runs off solar electric, built in radio plus tv, storage cupboards over bed, storage under seats, reg until October 2024, $16,000 Ph 0409967815, Horsham
Isuzu Outback Express
REDUCED 2011 Pinnacle camper trailer - full off-road, hard floor, a full canvas annexe, tag hinge towing included, 2 new tyres- spare is brand new, 2 batteries, Anderson plugs for charging batteries are included, 2 power points, light in camper, queen size bed and mattress, new fly screens in windows and doors, 4 burner gas stove, includes 2 gas bottles, 60L water tank,sink with water tap and electric pump to sink and outside tap, carries 2 large fuel containers, portable gas heater, portable toilet with pop-up shower or toilet cubicle, folding camp table, Rego till Sept 2024, U28090 $9,000ono Ph 0429942936
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
Motorhome for sale, 2 seater, sleeps 3, auto, deisel, fridge, tv, shower, toilet, stove and lots more, have to see to believe, can drive on normal car licence, 3.1m long, RWC, $45,000 with 12mth rego and RWC Ph Phillip 0428173606 or Susan and ask for Phillp 0458727370 Horsham
3PL Super Spreader, done no work, fair condition, $350, Ph 0400894020
3x Ajax wool press $100ea plus Gst ono Ph 0428894258
2018 Dingo Ultimate Camper, heavy duty top of the line off-road trailer including boat rack, fully enclosed annexe including ensuite, lots of storage, built-in instant gas hot water to sink and shower, dual AGM batteries and built-in inverter and charger, innerspring mattress and ability to make up second double bed, two new off-road tyres, VGC, reg Y76535 $18500ono Ph 0407360212
2018 Jayco Swan Camper, hardly used, as new, front & rear double beds, couch & table bed, can sleep 6 easily, battery pack, 4 Burner gas stove & grill, microwave, 3 way fridge, awning, lots of cupboards, $24000ono, Ph 0427467622 Kaniva
Jayco Finch pop top caravan, 2 double beds with fly mesh, electric brakes, boat racks and an annex, $15,000 Ph 53582560 Stawell
Kokoda Tribute 2 Platinum, 2015 as newcondition, semi-off-road, ensuite, custom design, lots extras $56,000 Ph 0493052729
Motorhome Jayco Conquest
2021, 25’, satellite system, diesel, heater, 7625knms, 1UU2JX
$168,000 Ph 0429821461
New Age 2013, queen bed, TV, large fridge, microwave, gas/ electric hot plates, toilet, shower, washing machine, full annex, sway bars, $45,000, Ph 0427778747
Paramount Caravan , VGC, registered, rollout awning, full kitchen $22,000 Ph 0407542856
Heaslip grouper, VGC, 2 bins, 4200L each capacity, Honda motor, new bearings in elevator, adjustable legs, always shedded $7700 inc Gst Ph 0427330078
Macey Field Bin in GO $3000 Ph 0429857207
MF tea 20 with 2 spare rear wheel rims 1 with tyre $2500 Ph 0419574884
REDUCED Field Bins , 2 Jaeschke 32t field bins, one with square top lids with and sight glasses $7500, large round top one with normal lids $6500, all prices plus Gst Ph 0400603022
Small steel sheep ramp , suit tandem trailer, $75, Ph 0400894020
Stoll S6 2014 boom spray 6000lt tank, 36m boom,10 sections, 520/85R 42 tyres, 2.3mt axle on air bag suspension, mud guards, stainless steel centrifugal pump with hydraulic drive, 450lt flush tank, fence line nozzles both sides, TriJet nozzle bodies, one owner/operator, $80,000 inc Gst Ph 0428852409 Murtoa
Tractor Tyre , 1/2 the new price, 16.9 x 28, near new Ph 0353870522 AH or 0413073478
Trailing Grain Feeder , with canopy, good condition, $1100, Ph 0400894020
5 x 30 ton Silos for sale, $1500 ono Ph 0427361940
Brandt 46’ auger , 8” super charge, new battery, new motor 3rd wheel drive $14,000 plus Gst Ph 0400603022
Case IH 2144 Harvester, 4375 engine hrs, 3108 rotor hrs, trimble auto steer, no screen, 25-foot flex front on Leith trailer, $50,000 inc Gst Ph 0428852409 Murtoa
Connor 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 Ph 0407911884
Croplands Pegasus 6000lt boom sprayer, all hydraulics, 36m wide, air bag suspension, 20 point 8 forty, 2 tyres $77,000 inc Gst Ph 0498549832
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
2016 Ramco C Dolly trailer, registered X17337 $4000 Ph 0407542856
Aluminium windows, 4 x double approx 6’x6’, 2 x single approx 6’x3’, other smaller sizes, VGC, also quantity of timber louvre wardrobe doors, make an offer Ph 0437754474
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
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
Fencing material , cyclone combination stays $66 inc, 100mm heavy duty galv pipe, ideal for strainer posts, 6m length cut to size $120 inc, 1000 elec fence standoffs $220 inc Ph 0428579838
Honda EU70is generator, almost brand new, 14 hrs, $5800 Ph 0417500311
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
Roll top desk, beer fridge, Haier fridge freezer, wooden frame tennis table, will separate Ph 0429093269
Ryobi router $100, Triton router table $150, Triton jaws $150, band saw $200, band saw small $50, angle grinder $40, air compressor $100, plasma cutter $180, Ryobi drill press $120 Ph 0499769869
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
Workshop manuals, parts, books and catalogues Ph 0419821563
3 seater leather
4 Leather Swivel rocking recliner chairs VGC, $125 each Ph 0427826763
motor, electric trolling motor, not used over 2 years, trailer reg V82175, boat reg DT917, serial no 09185405, $4000, Ph 0437899398
ono cash only Ph 53547510 evenings only Black EL Futura , 04/98, limited edition factory silhouette black, Geelong plant executive order, complete with books, late model 4ltr engine, auto, air, cruise etc, runs and drives well, no rego, duco average, vin# 6FPAAAJGSWWT37628, 191,000kms $2490ono Ph Max 0477317809
2011 White Nissan Navara D40 STX550 V6 twin cab, auto, diesel, bull bar, driving lights, snorkel, long range fuel tank, duel battery system, 2 inch lift kit, canopy, hard top tonneau cover and roll bar, 1 owner, serviced regularly, rego paid until 23/12/2024, comes with RWC, engine number: V9X007595C, 297,500kms, YTZ 215 $20,800ono Ph Craig 0429832207
2015 Nissan Navara, bbar, lbar, snkl, rrak, canopy, T-bar, ebrks, dbats, abags, 6spd man, 9mths reg, RWC, only 118,000kms, ADP699 $23,990 Ph 0427423609
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
Gather Us In I have been encouraged this week by the partnerships that being the minister of a church in a rural setting allows me to have. Some of the other ministers who lead churches in Stawell live in Ararat, and not in Stawell where I live. Some of them also have churches in other towns. I lead the community church in Pomonal and the Uniting Church in Landsborough alongside my big and pointy one in Stawell. I have recently talked strategies for working together with the Anglican minister who also cares for Landsborough, and I have “coffeed at the café” with the Baptist and Churches of Christ ministers in Stawell. I find it truly encouraging that we can work together, despite our differently shaped head-office hierarchies, and the “lowarchies” of local church. We must work together, not only for the Christian stuff of evangelism and welfare, but also in support of each other as professional people who live away from our families in the big smoke, and who oftentimes give out a lot of care and forget to receive or seek it ourselves.
What churches do is not about the minister (one person with a head full of Bible), but about the ministry (lots of people with hearts full of compassion and hope). We need that one person to support the lots of people by doing his or her job as “the minister”; but as the one person in my churches I value and need the support I have received in recent weeks.
Damien Tann - St Matthew’s Stawell, and Pomonal Community Uniting Church
ute 2.4 petrol 4WD great farm ute no tray, WD4SQ $3000 Ph 0417440396 2011 Holden VE1
2019 Subaru Impreza Hatch back, AWD, glass electric sunroof, safety, comfort, Pearl White, EC, 40,000kms, 1PA8PJ $27,900 Ph 0427822909
Holden WB Panel Van 1983, 6 cylinder petrol/gas, 3spd manual, VGC, extra parts included, FSE369 $25,000ono
Ph 0408881137
Landcruiser GXL V8 Diesel, EC with accessories, locally purchased and owned, 298,000kms, WEU939 $45,000 Ph 0428 820 445
42-46 Anderson St, Dimboola Sunday 19th May
Viewing and registration from 9am, auction to commence at 10am. BBQ available
Electric beds, chairs, fridges, freezers, furniture, crockery and kitchen items and many sundry items.
All proceeds to Allambi Independent Living Unit’s refurbishment.
Sunnyside Lutheran Retirement Village invite Companies to tender for Specialist Maintenance Services
The Independent Contractor
(a)
(b)
Villages ‘Preferred Provider’ of
The specific requirements are detailed in the Request For Quotation documents which can be downloaded via Council’s website at www.hindmarsh.vic.gov.au/tenders Closing time for the above Tender is 2:00pm on Tuesday 28 May 2024.
All enquiries should be directed via Laura Sonnberger, Contracts & Procurement Officer on telephone (03) 5391 4444.
Monica Revell Chief Executive Officer
Dimboola Natimuk
Lutheran Parish
Sunday, May 19
Edenhope 11am HC
Goroke 9am HC
Natimuk 10am LR Vectis 10am LR
Dimboola 11am LR
Wednesday, May 29, 2024
At 7.00pm
Maydale Pavilion
Contact Andrea Cross, Secretary: maydalereserve@ gmail.com for nominations to fill 10 vacancies from members.
Confirm minutes of last AGM Election of office bearers. Retiring Councillor for re-election: Dalton Cross
purpose of the
is
Place your situation vacant advertisement in
– the largest circulating newspaper in the Wimmera, southern Mallee and Grampians. Telephone (03) 5382 1351 Email horshamreception@ team.aceradio.com.au
Laser Plumbing and Electrical Horsham is seeking applicants for a Management Position!
Experience Needed:
– Trade background/experience preferred but not essential
– Proven leadership or management skills is a plus
Benefits of taking on a management position at Laser Horsham:
– Lead a team and play an active role in senior business leadership, reporting directly to owners of private enterprise
– Join an evolving company with aspirations of future growth
– Unrivalled company culture that fosters a positive and inclusive environment
– Full training and support provided
– Super competitive package including work vehicle
To apply, email your resume to: hrwhs.horsham@laserelectrical.com.au
For further details, please contact:
Laser Plumbing & Electrical Horsham 89 Plumpton Road, Horsham Phone: 03 5382 1375 horsham@laserelectrical.com.au
Plumbing Lic: 23112 REC: 14579 ARC: 26861
Australian Grain Export Pty Ltd. is based in Adelaide, and it has a branch that operates a site at Rupanyup in the Wimmera region of Victoria. AGE is a well-established company with a history spanning over 23 years in business.
We are currently in search of an experienced Customer Service Manager to join our team at the Rupanyup site.
As the Customer Service Manager, you will manage the day-today customer service operations at the facility. Your leadership will be critical in managing the daily customer service operations.
Duties will include:
• Constant liaison with grain buyers, operations, and customers with up-to-date and accurate information.
• Overseeing and evaluating storage and inventory systems to ensure they meet supply demands and effectively manage stock levels.
• Overseeing the recording of deliveries, storage, and distribution transactions on a daily basis.
• Monitor all inbound and outbound orders in a timely manner.
You will have:
• 3+ years’ experience in leading a customer service team within the grain export industry or similar area.
• Strong problem-solving, decision-making, and communication skills
• Knowledge of the grain market, knowledge of pulse varieties, and experience in grain classification.
Preferred Qualifications:
• A bachelor’s degree in management or a relevant field.
• Proven experience in delivering exceptional customer service.
• Proficiency in managing a diverse team.
What we will provide:
• Flexible work environment.
• $65,000 - $70,000 + super
If you feel aligned with the job duties outlined above and are eager for a fresh opportunity, kindly submit your application in Word format at your earliest convenience. Alternatively, please reach out to us via email at grain@wimmeragrain.com.au to schedule a confidential discussion.
Part time, 2.5 days per week, fxed term to December 31st 2024. Based at our offce in Horsham.
The Navigator Program is an intensive, targeted, education support service where Case Managers work in collaboration with schools to help young people achieve their educational goals.
Please reach out to Matthew Martin on 03 54401176 or via email at Matthew.Martin@ anglicarevic.org.au
applications close: 26th May, but please apply as soon as possible. to view PD and application details, please visit careers on our website.
Wimmera and Mallee regions.
Works Inspector (Fixed Term 2 Years)
Position number VG/40033B
The Works Inspector will be responsible for identifying, reporting on and monitoring the rectification of non-compliances related to all aspects of construction activities. They will also work with contractors to implement improvements and ensure the safe, timely and efficient completion of works. The majority of the work will be in relation to the East Grampians Rural Pipeline Project but the successful candidate may also be required to assist with other GWMWater projects.
If you enjoy building relationships and working in a dynamic environment, we would like to hear from you!
To apply online please visit: gwmwater.org.au/careers
Applications close: Friday 31 May 2024
GWMWater contact:
Olwen Reynolds, People Talent and Culture Officer
GWMWater is an EEO employer and is committed to continuously improving our quality, safety and environmental systems.
To receive information in relation to this vacancy in an accessible format such as large print, please contact our People Talent and Culture team on 1300 659 961.
Subscribe to receive GWMWater job alert emails by visiting gwmwater.org.au/careers
Mark Williams Managing Director
11 McLachlan Street Horsham gwmwater.org.au
from 6am
Ararat Harness Racing Club hosted its Pacing for Pink meeting on Sunday night, fundraising for Jane McGrath Foundation and raising awareness of breast cancer.
Concongella trainer Owen Martin celebrated a stable double in consecutive races, with his four-yearold geldings Feelingoodfreddie in the Ararat Rural City Pace and My Great Eight in the Ararat Tyre Power Maiden Pace.
Driver Neil McCallum bought ‘Freddie’ with a sweeping run, five and four wide from the 600-metre mark to round up them up and score by 2.2 metres from Swiss Lightning – Luke Dunne – in a rate of 2:01.6 for the 1790-metre trip.
‘Freddie’ took 19 starts to notch up his maiden victory at Charlton in February for owner Ben Martin, and followed up with a couple of closeup thirds before losing form.
After a frustrating five minor placings from its previous six outings, My Great Eight was well overdue to break its duck and given a sweet trip by McCallum the stars finally aligned to end the drought.
Martin bred My Great Eight from his former smart mare Hellovaway, 13 wins, $118,091, and, in addition to the lion’s share of Sunday’s
stakemoney, will also collect a healthy Vicbred first win bonus.
Great Western owner-trainer Michelle Wight and her husband Craig were successful at Ararat with their strong staying mare Nosweetsforyou, which raced outside Taylah French’s Our Bella Lucia for the majority of the 2195-metre journey.
When the leader put up the white flag at the 400-metre mark, Wight gave Nosweetsforyou full rein and cleared out to a seven-metre margin at the top of the home stretch.
Despite doing all the work, the mare had enough in reserve to score by 2.2 metres in a rate of 1:58.7 and secure a spot in the $15,000 final at Melton on May 25.
Horsham trainer Justin Lane’s five-year-old gelding Swizzlestick stormed to the post at Maryborough on Friday to capture the $10,000 Growth Accounting Solutions Pace.
Driver Lauren White settled Swizzlestick well back in the running line from their second line draw and was content to bide time with a solid tempo being set by the frontrunners.
They joined the three-wide train with 500 metres remaining and edged four, then five wide round the final bend to be poised to pounce at the top of the home straight.
The 21-year-old Maryborough driver reined and shouted encour-
agement to Swizzlestick during the perfectly timed run and snatched victory from Alfnalma, Hannah Lewis, in the shadows of the post.
It’s not often we see a Kerryn Manning-trained youngster go around at 15-1 and score on debut but so it was with Surfe La Mer in the Woodlands Stud 2YO Pace at Hamilton.
Drawn the pole over the short course of 1660 metres, the beautifully bred filly wasn’t rushed at the start and settled three back on the markers after being double crossed by Golden Tribe, Jason Lee, and Splash Of Paynt, Jackie Barker.
With the tempo hot at the start and maintained throughout, Surfe La Mer still had plenty in reserve and once given clean air along the sprint
lane, burst through for a runaway victory in 1:55.9.
Surfe La Mer is the first foal produced by smart performer Onthecrestofawave, 14 wins and $105,770 in prizemoney, and was bred by Manning and Ken Salmon.
Stawell trainer-driver Jason Ainsworth was also a winner at Hamilton when nine-year-old gelding Shadow Justice won the $6000 Matthews Petroleum Trot at the juicy odds of 25-1.
It was career victory number 10 for the old boy and part-owner Natasha Raven can look forward to more.
Horsham horseman Aaron Dunn’s three-year-old colt Dee Roe downed the older opposition at Hamilton in the $9000 Alexandra House Pace.
Wimmera trainers returned a mixed bag at Horsham on Tuesday last week as the honours were shared among Garry George, of Beulah, Bill and Helen Hartigan, of Horsham, and Andrea Gurry, of Nhill, who all trained individual winners.
George was the first to strike when his smart conveyance Show Cause struck early over the 410-metre journey.
Jumping well, Show Cause looked the leader but was crossed soon thereafter and shuffled back to third on the rail.
But that proved a blessing, and on railing hard through the corner, she straightened for home, boxing on for the lead and in doing so, opened up a winning margin going home a length the better in a smart 23:50 seconds.
The Hartigan team tasted victory with its smart Raw Ability female Lightning Ziggy.
Sitting second early and stalking the leader, Ziggy railed hard, flying home on the rail. The race turned into a head-bobbing finish with Ziggy proving too strong, pulling away in the shadows of the post to win in the quick time of 23:33 seconds.
Gurry finished the winners off for local trainers when strapper Dezi Carter led out Napier Bale for the 11th race on the program. Napier jumped mid-field and from there went about working his way through the field.
On cornering, Napier worked his way into second position, but the leader had a threelength break on him.
He then put the after-burners on and picked up the leader to be a one-length victor in a nice 23:37 seconds.
– Peter Carter
After a hectic start to the Wimmera Hockey Association season, which has already thrown up some unexpected results, the competition will take a breather this weekend while the Victoria Junior Country Championships are played in Melbourne. While the Wimmera will not be fielding any teams in their own right, several keen and talented residents will still benefit from the opportunity to represent other associations.
Ten players, up from the seven who participated last year, will make the trip to gain experience at a higher level.
Nhill’s Lanie Clark and Warracknabeal’s Maddison Bentley will play for Hockey Central Victoria – Bendigo in the under-16 girls team, and Ellie Williamson will play for the under-14 team.
The Goulburn Valley under-16 boys team will have a distinct Wimmera flavour with Deegan Clark, Nhill, Charlie White, Kaniva, and Archie Zanker, Asher Zanker, and Sean Pedie, Yanac, making up a significant part of the squad.
Sam Williamson will play for North Central Hockey Association in the under-14 boys, and Tom Batchelor, from Horsham, will line up for Sunraysia Hockey Association in the under-18 boys’competition.
The Wimmera competition will resume on May 25 at Davis Park, Nhill, where, after some recent close matches, all games will attract interest.
Round three of the Wimmera winter hockey season at Dimboola last weekend, showed the evenness of the senior competitions with several close matches.
In the open competition, Horsham Hurricanes
held off Yanac Tigers to inflict the reigning premier’s second drawn result in their past 45 matches – their last loss was in the semi-finals of 2019. Although Nhill Rangers went down by three goals, they pushed Warrack Hoops for the whole match. Kaniva Cobras had the bye.
There is a new ladder leader in the women’s competition after Horsham Jets scored a victory over the previously undefeated Yanac, Kaniva held off Dimboola Roos in a close game on Friday evening, and Nhill Thunderbirds registered their first win for the year, over Warracknabeal.
Although it is still early in the season, a gap is beginning to open between the top three teams and the lower three in the under-16 competition.
Nhill Leopards remain the only undefeated team in the under-16s after a win over Warrack Revengers, but Kaniva Raiders and Yanac Warriors are just two points adrift after they enjoyed comfortable wins over Dimboola Kangaroos and Horsham Bombers.
Round three results
Open: Yanac Tigers 0 (Best: B. Alexander, S. Farmers, R. Croot) drew with Horsham Hurricanes 0 (Best: P. Mackereth, C. Hassall, J. Horsfall). Warracknabeal Hoops 3 (Goals: O. Bennett, R. Bennett, J. Smith; Best: R. Bennett, S. Schultz, T. Jorgensen) def Nhill Rangers 0 (Best: S. Bone, J. Knoll, B. Tischler). Women: Kaniva 2 (Goals: L. Stimson, P. Maddern; Best: L. Stimson, N. Hutchins, H. Pearse) def Dimboola Roos 1 (Goal: J. Hauselberger; Best: J. Hauselberger, A. Baker, L. Graham) Horsham Jets 4 (Goals: K. Krahe 2, H. Mackereth, M. Heppell; Best: H. Werner, K. Krahe, A. Heal) def Yanac 1 (Goal: M. Mackley; Best: M.
IN CONTROL: Victoria Ward takes control of the ball as Jules Braisby looks for a chance to lay a tackle.
Photo: Simon King
Mackley, C. Zanker, A. Farmers). Nhill Thunderbirds 5 (Goals: S. Keller 2, K. Clark, C. Shurdington, R. Clark) def Warracknabeal 0 (Best: K. Williamson, E. Williamson, S. Williamson). Under-16: Kaniva Raiders 6 (Goals: C. White 2, L. Krelle, R. Williams, F. Dodson, X. Stimson; Best: C. White, L. Krelle, J. Beattie, X. Stimson) def Dimboola Kangaroos 0 (Best: J. Ward, R. Williams, V. Ward). Yanac Warriors 6 (Goals:Archie Zanker 2 Asher Zanker 2, H. Zanker, E. Alexander; Best: Archie Zanker, Asher Zanker, S. Pedie) def Horsham Bombers 0 (Best: J. Schwarz, H. Knoop, J. Di Pietro). Nhill Leop-
ards 4 (Goals: D. Clark 2, B. Clark, A. Trenery; Best: D. Clark, T. Shue Bee, A. Trenery) def Warracknabeal Revengers 0 (Best: M. Bentley, J. Nuske, E. Williamson). Under-12 development program: Dimboola Kookaburras 6 (Goals: R. Wallace 2, R. Hadzig 2, L. Elliott, C. Elliott) v Kaniva Rampagers 0. Yanac Lowan Stars 0 v Horsham Black Hawks 3 (Goals: J. Mackereth 2, J. Luy). Warracknabeal Avengers 1 (Goal: M. Peters) v Nhill Bandits 3 (Goals: B. Cannell 2, D. Bee).
Patrons at Kalkee’s Blue Ribbon Raceway will be treated to a unique spectacle on Sunday as the track plays host to the final round of the Junior Quarter Midgets Victoria season.
Quarter midgets are smaller versions of open-wheel speedcars, also known as midgets.
The Victorian junior series is for children aged between five and 16, with four categories of racing including open 160cc, open 120cc, junior restricted 120cc and novice 120cc.
It will be the second time Horsham has hosted a round of the competition, with Sunday deciding overall winners for the 2023-24 season.
Spokesman Dylan Simpson said the club had three members who raced in the class, prompting it to build a track.
“From our club there is number 57, Reed Muller; 98, Jed Simpson; and 96, Charlie Simpson. They’re the up-andcoming speedway drivers of the future. It’s the next generation on the track,” he said.
Pit time is at 10am, with racing from 11am. Entry is free for spectators. For more information, visit www.jqmv.com. au or www.facebook.com/blueribbon.raceway.
pin-up horse
Steparty is set to race at Flemington on Saturday as he prepares to travel to Queensland next month for the $3-million Group One Stradbroke Handicap.
Trainer Paul Preusker has set the group one Caulfield Guineas placegetter for the 1400-metre handicap at Eagle Farm on June 15.
The three-year-old colt clocked 50.91 seconds in an 850-metre heat at Ararat last month, and then trialled again in Horsham on May 6.
Preusker said he was confident Steparty’s feet issues, which saw him abort his autumn preparation after his first-up third in the Manfred Stakes, were now behind him coming into winter.
“It was a nice little trial and the feet seem really good,” he told Racing.com, following the Ararat heat.
“He got through the trial good and hopefully there has got to be moisture coming soon surely. He seems a bit tougher and he might have come into himself this time.”
Preusker said form and weather would dictate if Steparty’s second-up run was in Victoria or Queensland.
“He’s got to do enough first-up to warrant the trip to Queensland
he has got to beat them first-up or be that respectable a run that you can’t question it,” he said.
Preusker said John Allen was expected to retain the ride on Saturday, but no hoop had been confirmed for Queensland.
Part-owner Cindy O’Sullivan said eight people from St Arnaud were connections of Steparty and they were thrilled with his progress.
“When a horse goes to the races and it wins and then it wins again, it’s just been an absolute thrill for us,” she said.
“He’s just a treat. It’s a very special thing to have a horse that wins, at all.”
O’Sullivan said the owners would love Steparty, who won his first five races, to win a group one race.
“We would love to win the group one, but everyone always dreams of that,” she said.
“Even when we were in the Caulfield Guineas, it was the biggest thrill of our lives.
“He came third, which he put in a super effort, so we’re not sure what he’s got left in him, but he’s looking strong and he’s looking good.”
In other stable news, Ballarat Cup winner Captain Envious has nominated for the $500,000 Listed Andrew Ramsden over 2800 metres at Flemington on Saturday.
Many children dream of meeting their AFL or AFLW heroes, but Horsham’s Fletcher Dandy lived a dream of a different kind at the weekend when he met top-level football umpires Matt Stevic, Nathan Williamson and ‘Razor’ Ray Chamberlain.
The trio visited Fletcher at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital, where he is undergoing treatment for leukaemia.
In addition to leukaemia, nine-yearold Fletcher also has a rare condition known as febrile infection-related epilepsy syndrome, FIRES, which affects about one in one million children.
His father Simon Dandy said Fletcher was ‘getting smashed’ by his cancer treatment, but the umpires’ visit had returned a smile to his face.
He said Fletcher harboured ambitions of becoming a football umpire after growing up watching him and his sister Kirrily, who are both members of AFL Wimmera Mallee Umpires.
“He loves footy and he’s seen myself and Kirrily run around. He goes to functions with our local umpires and sees how good they are as people,” Mr Dandy said.
“He knows with his health that he’s probably not going to be able to play footy, but it’s a good way to get in-
volved. He’s only nine so he’s too young to start yet, but the plan before he got sick was to start getting him into it in the next year or so.”
Mr Dandy said the visit, organised by AFL Wimmera Mallee Umpires
head Cameron Pickering, was akin to meeting football royalty for Fletcher.
“Matt Stevic is the best umpire of all time based on what he’s done. ‘Razor’ Ray has obviously been around for a long time and Nathan is an up-and-
coming umpire, so I didn’t want it to be lost on him that they were pretty prestigious umpires,” he said.
“They gave him a top signed by all the AFL umpires and ‘Razor’ Ray gave him an Indigenous round umpire
top. It’s hard seeing any kid with cancer, especially your own, so any chance you get to see him smile and have a good time is worth it.”
Mr Dandy praised the umpires for their care and compassion.
“They were there for nearly an hour talking to us and taking photos. They were just magnificent blokes,” he said.
“They gave me a hug and I teared up at the fact that they were so forthcoming and generous.”
Mr Dandy said he received even more exciting news after the umpires departed.
“I was driving home that night and they didn’t have my phone number, but I got a text message from Matt Stevic, which means he must have sought out my number,” he said.
“He said with my permission he’d like to stay up to date with what was happening with Fletcher.
“I wrote back and said if Fletcher becomes an umpire, I’ll make sure he remembers this day.
“He replied and said he’d like to umpire Fletcher’s first game with him.
“This is like the Leigh Matthews of footy umpiring offering to come umpire with Fletcher. It was amazing.”
A group of junior Wimmera umpires took centrestage at the Melbourne Cricket Ground clash between Richmond and Western Bulldogs on Saturday as part of the AFL’s Community Umpiring Week.
AFL Wimmera Mallee Umpires head Cameron Pickering and senior umpire Frank Marklew accompanied nine young umpires from Horsham and Murtoa on the visit.
The group joined AFL umpires during pre-game warm-ups and umpired Auskick games at half time.
Mr Pickering said AFL Wimmera Mallee Umpires organised a trip to the AFL’s Big Freeze game in
each of the past few years, but said he wanted to ‘up the ante’ this year.
“They got to practise bouncing the ball with the AFL umpires and practised their throw-ins on the boundary line to see how they compared,” he said.
Mr Pickering said the young umpires also got to meet some of their football heroes.
“My son Zack is a huge Maurice Rioli Junior tragic and got to have a chat to him for about five minutes,” he said.
“Frank called over Dustin Martin in the middle of the MCG and they all got a photo with him.
“They took part in the formalities for the coin
toss, and Marcus Bontempelli and Toby Nankervis took a photo with them. They were buzzing when they went back to their seats.”
Mr Pickering said the match was an example of the opportunities football umpiring offered and encouraged juniors to get involved.
“A lot of people don’t realise you can still play even if you umpire,” he said.
“We’ve got a great reputation in our community for supporting the development of umpires and giving them lots of opportunities.”
People interested in umpiring can visit play.afl/ umpire for more information.
Mininera and District Football Netball League premier Tatyoon levelled its season at two wins and two losses after defeating Moyston-Willaura 13.12 (90) to 9.7 (61) at the weekend.
Making the short drive to Willaura, the Hawks asserted themselves early in a six-goals-to-one first quarter.
The Pumas trimmed the margin to 10 points in the second quarter and eight at the final change, but Tatyoon ran the game out strongly to secure four premiership points.
The win was vital for the Hawks, who were coming off a 113-point
loss to ladder leader Penshurst in round three.
Hayden Walters led the way for Tatyoon in attack with four goals, while forward flanker Benjamin Skubnik was Moyston-Willaura’s best player with three.
Ararat Eagles improved to 3-1 on the season, defeating GlenthompsonDunkeld in a five-point thriller at Alexandra Oval.
with the visitors booting 2.5 in the final term – enough for Ararat to hang on for a 9.9 (63) to 8.10 (58) win.
Naish McRoberts and defender Brady Miller were the Eagles’ top performers.
Great Western’s winless start to the season continued with a dispiriting 17.16 (118) to 3.11 (29) loss to Woorndoo-Mortlake.
ers earned their first win against Caramut 16.12 (108) to 12.7 (79) and Penshurst remained unbeaten against Hawkesdale-Macarthur 15.13 (103) to 7.17 (59).
Great Western has a chance to get its first win on the board in round five when the Lions take on Caramut at Stawell’s Central Park.
UMPIRE RECOGNITION: At the Richmond and Western Bulldogs match on Saturday night, Wimmera umpires were recognised for their contribution to the game.
Pictured, from left, Richmond’s Toby Nankervis, Zack Pickering, Harry Foster, Harry Adams, Nate Bacon, Kirrily Dandy, Lenny Bacon, Frank Marklew, Maverick Adams, and Bulldogs captain Marcus Bontempeili. Picture: AFL Photos via Getty Images
had a pretty good start. They were up by six goals at half time, but in the second half Kaniva-Leeor United more than matched them.
For a side that has finals aspirations, I thought Pimpinio might have done more after half time.
Pimpinio has lost Liam Jakobi as a big key forward and ruckman after he moved north, and his absence was felt.
Filling the void he left in the forward line will be a key for them.
They used Daniel Baker across half forward, but at 38 he ran out of steam a bit.
The standout player: Hamish Bennett, the Kaniva-Leeor United ruckman, was outstanding. He’s not the best kick, but he competes tirelessly.
He won the majority of the ruck taps and probably would have taken a dozen marks, which you don’t always see from ruckmen anymore. He backed into packs and took a lot of contested grabs.
Little separated the teams all day, with scores locked at 20-apiece at quarter time before each team took turns holding single-digit leads at the subsequent changes.
The Eagles were the beneficiaries of some errant kicking by the Rams,
Centre half back Beau McNamara and midfielders Sam Cocks and Dylan Witney gave good effort, but the Lions were well beaten across the ground.
In other matches, Wickliffe-Lake Bolac beat Lismore-Derrinallum 15.11 (101) to 11.4 (70), SMW Rov-
Other matches will see Ararat Eagles host Moyston-Willaura, and Tatyoon travel to play HawkesdaleMacarthur.
SMW Rovers play at home to Penshurst, Woorndoo-Mortlake make a trip to Derrinallum and Glenthompson-Dunkeld are at its Dunkeld home against Wickliffe-Lake Bolac.
The rising star: Nick Groves kicked five for Pimpinio as an opportunist forward.
He’s kicked 16 goals for the year and is consistently dangerous. I think he’s only about 20, so he’s one to watch.
Harrow-Balmoral’s
odds of de-
fending its 2023 Horsham District Football Netball League senior premiership shortened at the weekend, with the Roos defeating ladder leader Swifts at Balmoral.
The Baggies, after a series of impressive early season wins, had assumed the mantle of team most likely to end the Roos’ 21-match unbeaten streak, and justified that speculation with the first three goals.
But Harrow-Balmoral responded to narrow the margin, trailing by only six points at quarter time. In the second quarter the Roos unleashed a seven-goal blitz to lead by 26 at the main break, and withstood all Swifts’ second-half comeback attempts to win 18.7 (115) to 14.6 (90).
Roos coach Jai Thompson, who kicked six goals, said his side approached the game with the gravity it warranted.
“I said to the guys before the game that Swifts were probably the in-form team of the competition, and what a great statement it would be to win,” he said.
“I didn’t think we played overly badly in the first quarter. We made a few mistakes which resulted in a couple of goals. They were pretty simple things we knew we needed to do – movement and a bit more
pressure around the footy, not allowing them to get easy kicks out the front of a stoppage. Once we cleaned that up everything started to flow for us and we were able to play some good footy.”
Thompson lauded Cody Deutscher for his four-goal performance, along with forward-midfielder Ethan Appleton, three.
“Our young contingent of blokes who came up this year – George Austin, Josh Grant, Rhys Daffey, Brody Devlin and Maddox Blake – have come into the team and applied a heap of pressure. Their run and carry and willingness to hunt the ball at such a young age is impressive,”
Thompson said.
Centre half forward Matt Healy was a standout for Swifts, while full forward Paul Summers booted six goals.
Thompson said the Roos would need to be on their game against Laharum this week. The Mountain Men lost to Noradjuha-Quantong 18.14 (122) to 7.9 (51) on Saturday, but Thompson said they remained a threat.
“I know they were beaten at the weekend, but before that they strung a few good games together,” he said.
“We’ve got to make sure we come ready to play our best footy. We know that they’ll want to take a big scalp, and we
don’t want it to be us.” Best for Laharum at the weekend was co-coach Robbie Miller, while James Gregg, Jack McRae and Brock Orval led the Bombers’ win.
Next up for Noradjuha-Quantong is Rupanyup, which beat Taylors Lake 14.11 (95) to 5.14 (44) at the weekend behind strong efforts from midfielder Bill Hansen and versatile ruckman Mitch Gleeson.
Taylors Lake will be tested again this weekend against Pimpinio – sitting quietly in third position as the only undefeated team besides Harrow-Balmoral.
The Tigers maintained their strong form against Kaniva-Leeor United at the weekend, with a 13.9 (87) to 6.6 (42) victory.
Natimuk United found itself on the wrong side of a one-kick loss for the second time this year, succumbing to Edenhope-Apsley 11.4 (70) to 9.14 (68) after leading by 10 points at the final change.
Onballer Ryan Obst led the way for the Saints, with centre half forward Fraser Thompson’s four-goal haul proving match-winning. Jono Lovel and Zach Smith were best for the Rams in defeat.
Natimuk United has a bye this weekend, while the Saints will travel to take on the Baggies, and Kalkee will host KanivaLeeor United.
A hotly anticipated top-of-thetable clash between Horsham District A Grade netball powerhouses Laharum and Noradjuha-Quantong lived up to the pre-game hype, with the Demons snatching a narrow win on Saturday.
Laharum started strongly at Quantong, taking a four-goal lead at quarter time and extending the margin to six at the long break.
But the Bombers launched a fierce fightback in the third term, outscoring the visitors 12 goals to six, to tie the scores at 27.
In the lead-up to the game, Laharum coach Rebecca McIntyre declared her match-up with Noradjuha-Quantong goal shooter Shannon Couch as one of the keys to victory. Her prediction proved accurate – although Couch netted a team-high 18 goals, she re-
quired 39 attempts. At the other end, Laharum goal shooter Caitlin Story was on song, finishing with 30 goals for the match.
Story’s big game was vital for the Demons, with goal attack Maddie Iredell blanketed by Noradjuha-Quantong’s Brooke Pay and held to six goals.
Laharum edged ahead in the final minutes of the low-scoring contest, holding on to win 36-33.
The win leaves the Demons on top of the ladder as the league’s sole undefeated team and the Bombers second with a 4-1 record.
Elsewhere, Kaniva-Leeor United bounced back from three consecutive losses with a 53-28 win against visiting Pimpinio.
Cougars coach Kylie King said her side was ‘feeling back on track’ after the performance.
“The previous two games were both close and well contested, so we were disappointed
not to come away with a win in either of them,” she said.
Blair Burke scored 42 goals for the Cougars, with goal attack Nikki Hawker and wing attack Zoe Hawker feeding her well throughout the game.
Defender Steph Runciman and goal attack Ada Binney were named Pimpinio’s best players.
King praised her team for its hot start, with the Cougars leading the Tigers 16-4 at quarter time.
“It was definitely an impressive start for the girls, and that held them in good stead for the rest of the game,” she said.
“In defence the girls were turning the ball over from the Pimpinio centre passes.
“They were working really hard to capitalise on the opportunities from missed goals and looking to pounce on any errors from the opposition.”
Kaniva-Leeor United will be
tested by fellow top-five aspirant Kalkee this weekend, before a round-seven bye. With the bye falling only two weeks before the King’s Birthday long weekend, King challenged her team to maintain its newfound edge.
Other games at the weekend saw Rupanyup improve to third on the ladder with a 73-32 win against Taylors Lake, Edenhope-Apsley down Natimuk United 48-37 and Swifts beat Harrow-Balmoral 51-38.
This weekend will pit Noradjuha-Quantong against Rupanyup in a battle of the two teams most likely to challenge Laharum’s supremacy.
Other match-ups include Pimpinio and Taylors Lake at Pimpinio, Laharum and Harrow-Balmoral at Cameron Oval and Swifts against EdenhopeApsley at North Park. Natimuk United has a bye.
Dimboola recorded its first win of the Wimmera football league season in a thriller at Horsham City Oval.
Round four action saw wins to Stawell, Southern Mallee Thunder and Minyip-Murtoa at the weekend.
The Roos scored a five-point win over Horsham, largely thanks to eight goals from recruit Jackson Calder.
Calder dominated up forward as the Roos clawed their way in front of the Demons, who missed opportunities early.
The home side kicked 4.4 in the first quarter – the Demons’ eight scoring shots to the Roos’ three kept the door ajar for the visitors.
An even second term led to a three-point ball game at half time.
With the match there for the taking, the Roos, led by Calder, Dylan Landt and exAFL player Andrew Moore, edged forward to take an eight-point lead into the last quarter.
More errant kicking from the Demons –kicking two goals, five points in the fourth quarter – proved costly and the Roos hung onto win.
Ryan Kemp, with five goals, Jasper Gunn and the consistent Brody Pope were Horsham’s best players. Dimboola will be hoping
to put on a show when it hosts Warrack Eagles this weekend.
The Eagles remain winless for season 2024, but were competitive in their first half against Minyip-Murtoa on Saturday.
With the margin only 15 points at half time, Warrack couldn’t contain the Burras in the second half.
Minyip-Murtoa piled on 8.10 to the Eagles’ 4.3 to come away 48-point winners.
Oscar Gawith booted six goals in the win, while new recruit Sam Griffiths shone.
The Burras now face two big tests in the upcoming fortnight – this Saturday hosting Southern Mallee Thunder at Minyip, before taking on last year’s premiers Ararat the following weekend.
The Thunder cruised to victory against Horsham Saints on Saturday, with the visitors never looking in it.
The Saints didn’t kick a goal until the fourth term, when they kicked three, but it was too little, too late as the Thunder recorded a 41-point win,
Southern Mallee Thunder coach Kieran Delahunty said while it was a solid team performance, their midfield, led by skipper Coleman Schache and the reliable Billy Lloyd, was a shining light in the one-sided battle.
“The Saints certainly came to play and tried to defensively make it as tough as possible for us,” he said.
“But I thought we were in control for the majority of the game, and to keep them goalless by three quarter time was certainly a credit to our defence. The back line stood up really well, so hopefully we can continue to keep on building on that.”
The Thunder’s attention now turns to the Minyip-Murtoa match, where they will welcome back Simon Clugston and Sam White, who have not played since suffering concussions in round one against Warrack.
“They have a couple of key players that we’ll put a little bit of work into to try and curb their influence,” Delahunty said.
“They’ve obviously got some handy talls up forward, but a lot of it will come down to the midfield battle.”
Nhill will be hoping to bounce back after its 21-point loss to Stawell when its host Horsham on Saturday. The Tigers stayed with the top-of-the-table Warriors in the first half but the home side came home strongly.
Stawell has the bye this weekend, while Ararat hosts Horsham Saints.
looking to continue its good form.
Is the shoulder joint really a joint?
Not really, it’s a shallow cavity with the A/C joint on top. The shoulder has a wonderful range of movement. If you think of a cup and saucer, the hip is a bit like a cup (a ball and socket joint) and the shoulder is more like the saucer, shallow with a small lip on one side. The average person can move their shoulder in a number of ranges of motion: up, down, in, out, large circles and up behind your back, or in your case, maybe not.
The shoulder is supported by 16 muscles and they’re a bit like a union, one out all out. Also, it has close association with the neck and upper back. So, when there is a problem with the shoulder as chiropractors, we often see locked up muscles in the shoulder region, the shoulder joint not moving as freely as it should and tight, locked up upper back and neck, shoulder blade and clavicle.
So how does a Chiropractor help? With adjustment to move the jammed-up areas in the neck, upper back, and shoulder, corrective posture and sometimes massage, you can see a huge improvement. This is also relevant care if you have had shoulder surgery or a fracture in your arm which means you haven’t been able to move it properly. Getting all these areas to move better means that any physio or other treatment, will work better with better results.
After a strong 12-goal win over Stawell on Saturday, Nhill now turns its attention to tackling second-placed Horsham.
A close game ensued in the Wimmera league
A Grade match between Nhill and Stawell at Central Park, with just four goals the difference at halftime.
But the Tigers hit their straps in the third quarter, jumping to a 10-goal lead to eventually record a 12-goal win.
Nhill goal shooter Emma Beer led the way with 32 goals, and Larnie Hobbs was also influential, while for the Warriors, midcourters Madi Taylor and Courtney McIlvride were named best.
The Tigers now have two wins to their name, and sit at the top of a log-jam of teams on eight points – Dimboola, Southern Mallee Thunder and Stawell.
Nhill will have a home-court advantage but will need to be at its best to match the Demons, who scored a comfortable 18-goal win over Dimboola.
Demons centre Tahlia Thompson will take good form into the Nhill game, coming off a best-oncourt performance against the Roos.
Playing at home, the Demons were quick out of the box in the first quarter, leading by 10 goals at the first break, before extending their lead to 11
at halftime. Horsham steadily built on its lead for the remainder of the match to win by 18 goals.
The Roos’ best were Maddison Marra and Billie Barber.
Dimboola will be hoping to build on its season when it plays Warrack Eagles this weekend.
The Eagles are coming off an eight-goal loss to Minyip-Murtoa and will be hoping to get back on the winners list.
A slow start proved costly for Warrack, with the Burras skipping to a 12-6 lead at quarter time. Minyip-Murtoa goal attack Lucy Brand and goal keeper Matilda Griffiths stood out in the win, while for the Eagles, Ashlynn and Leiah McKenzie were best players.
The Burras face Southern Mallee Thunder this weekend in what could be a hotly contested match.
The Thunder suffered a 30-goal loss on Saturday to the top-of-the-table Horsham Saints, who were simply too good as Elly Barnett again played a stellar game, along with centre Ashlee Grace.
The Saints will play Ararat in round five action, while Stawell has the bye.
– Lauren Henry
Joel Freijah had a night to remember on Saturday as he made his AFL debut in front of nearly 40,000 people at the MCG.
Freijah, a Horsham Saints product, played his first game for the Western Bulldogs against Richmond after being selected with pick 45 in last year’s national draft.
Playing in defence, Freijah matched up on Richmond legend Dustin Martin at the opening bounce. He settled into the game well, finishing with 17 disposals, four marks and five intercept possessions in a 91-point Bulldogs’ win.
Freijah described the lead-up to his debut as ‘a whirlwind’ but said he enjoyed the experience.
“It was pretty special running out there on a Saturday night at the MCG – it’s a childhood dream really,” he said.
“To line up on ‘Dusty’ Martin at the first bounce was incredible in itself.
“It took me about a quarter and a half to get used to the pace of things, but I felt like I held my own with my contests on the ground. I need a little bit more improvement in the air, but overall I felt good.”
After playing predominantly on a wing throughout his career, Freijah credited the Bulldogs’ coaching staff with aiding him in a move to defence.
“I’ve been playing in defence for about four or five weeks. The help from the coaches has been enormous and I was really grateful for that,” he said.
Freijah’s father Gabi presented him with his jumper prior to Saturday’s game, and said he was proud of his son.
“We really appreciate the opportunity that the club has given Joel. I know he’s worked very hard. It feels like just yesterday that he started in Auskick when he was four or five years old,” he said.
DOGS DEBUT:
Horsham’s Joel Freijah, above, with parents Tamara and Gabi, and sister Gemma after being presented with his guernsey to play his first game for the Western Bulldogs. Left, Freijah at the aftermatch celebrations inside the Bulldogs’ change rooms. Pictures: WESTERN BULLDOGS
Edenhope will host rounds five and six of the Australian Off-Road Championship, AORC, the country’s top enduro motorcycling competition, this weekend.
Promoted by Motorcycling Australia, the AORC comprises seven senior and four junior classes, as well as five cup competitions.
The Edenhope event will feature cross-country races on Saturday, with sprint races on Sunday. Cross-country races are continuous, multi-lap events on a natural terrain track more than 10-kilometres long.
Senior races last for three hours and junior races for two, with the rider in each class completing the most laps in the allocated time span declared the winner.
Sprint races consist of multiple heats on a short course that takes between nine and 12 minutes to complete.
The rider in each class with the least total elapsed time will be declared the winner of the class.
The Edenhope rounds mark the halfway point of the 2024 AORC, with future rounds planned for Queensland, South Australia and NSW before the championship’s conclusion in September.
Some of the country’s top enduro racers will compete at Edenhope, including Riley McGillivray, the reigning champion and current leader of the E3 class; rising Tasmanian Kyron Bacon in the E1 class; and top women’s rider Jess Gardiner, the first Australian to win the International Six Days Enduro – the oldest off-road motorcycling event in the world.
People can visit website www.aorc.org.au for more information.
Donald Closing date: May 17, 2024
Duties Include:
• Liaise with customers, GWMWater employees and other service providers in relation to service requests, system faults and customer complaints
• Operate and maintain water and wastewater systems and assets
• Engage contractors for assistance with faults or works when required
• Identify and assist in the solution to any communication and workflow problems observed
• Gaining qualifications and licenses by completing the required training for the role
Requirements:
• Possess a strong customer service focus
• Physically Fit
• Attention to detail
• Strong desire to work in a team environment
• Possess creativity and innovation
• Driver’s Licence required
Trade Apprenticeships – Expressions of Interest
Horsham Closing date: ASAP Opportunities in various industries:
• Agricultural • Plumbing
• Carpentry
• Glass Glazing
• Cabinet Making
• Electrical
• Mechanical
For more information contact Skillinvest on 1300 135 008 for a confidential discussion.
Horsham Closing date: ASAP
Opportunities in various industries:
• Agriculture
• Field Work
• Plant Operation
• Office administration
• Seasonal work with seeds and grains
• Traffic control and more
Murtoa Closing date: ASAP
Requirements:
• Excellent customer service
• Strong computer skills & proficient with MS suit
• Positive attitude & willingness to learn
• Local knowledge of Murtoa and surrounding communities
• Required for overtime and after hours call outs Water Operations Traineeship
For more information contact Daryl Eastwell on 0407 364 654 for a confidential discussion.
For more information contact Skillinvest on 1300 135 008 for a confidential discussion.
For more information contact Tamira Cullinan on 0458 706 272 for a confidential discussion.
• Be available to work weekends where required Road Workers
Ballarat
Closing date: ASAP
Duties will include:
• General Labouring
• Compacting, leveling, and spreading of materials to form roads
• Routine Maintenance
• Truck driving
• Removal of obstructions
For more information contact Nathan Keel on 0408 109 324 for a confidential discussion.
Anew-look junior country championship to be hosted by Volleyball Horsham will give more junior players an opportunity to participate in a major event.
Volleyball Victoria has given Volleyball Horsham the green light to host the West Region Junior Country Championships on AFL grand final weekend in September.
The event will cater for boys’ and girls’ teams at under 19, 17 and 15 level and will be open to not just associations to enter, but schools, academies and clubs in the western region of the state.
Volleyball Victoria chief executive Cori Wilder is excited at the opportunity for Volleyball Horsham to host the event.
“Volleyball Horsham has significant experience running volleyball tournaments and events, having most recently hosted the senior country championships in 2022 and their ongoing annual association tournament,” he said.
“The West Junior Country Championships seeks to engage under 19 volleyball participation from across the western regional areas of Victoria where often the remoteness of some schools and clubs mean they cannot attend Volleyball Victoria Schools Cups and state-based junior championships that occur centrally in Melbourne.”
“The result is that these young players are limited by what is offered locally for their age groups or step into senior competition where their social and safety needs are different to a majority of participants.”
Volleyball Horsham vice-president Matt McLoughlin said he was excited for the opportunities the event would offer for the region’s volleyballers.
“By opening up the championships to schools and academies, Volleyball Horsham anticipates good support, especially from the schools in the
immediate region, as they all support the local association so well,” he said.
“The championships will be a great opportunity for families and friends of our region’s players to see just how far they have come and how they will stack up against other teams from the west of the state.”
McLoughlin is keen to see how school teams fare against association teams from other areas, given the representation both Holy Trinity Lutheran College, HTLC, and Horsham College have at the School Sport Victoria state finals this week.
“I know the HTLC intermediate girls’ team is excited to play in Melbourne this week against what will be some pretty formidable metro opposition,” he said.
“But they will learn plenty and hopefully utilise those learnings going forward, with these championships the perfect opportunity.”
Phantoms on a roll
Phantoms State League One men’s team, featuring Volleyball Horsham’s Tim Carter and Tyler Snowden, secured two important victories at the weekend to move into the top four of their pool at the halfway point of the season.
Snowden was particularly impressed by how well the boys came together as a team.
“For such a diverse range of players the two wins emphasized just how well playing as a team contributes to results,” he said.
“When you have players coming from all over the place, like Bendigo, Ballarat, Geelong and Horsham, it takes time to build connection, but this group is combining well together, and the good thing about it is we still have plenty of room for improvement going forward.”
The focus will switch to the State League Two men’s team for this week’s round, with Volleyball Horsham players Jack Snowden, Noah Werry and Oscar Jackman fighting for a spot in the team.
Marie Lehmann and John Lehmann.
Horsham City Bowling Club represented the Wimmera Region at the Victorian State Championships at Moama Bowling Club on May 6 and 7, to determine the Victorian state midweek pennant champion for 2023-24.
The tournament provided the Horsham bowlers with an opportunity to play against some of the best bowlers from across Victoria.
Geoffrey Inglis’s team of Colin Morrell, Elsie Bardell and Derek Ballinger also bowled exceptionally well to narrowly defeat an Ocean Grove team skippered by Matthew Flapper, who represented Australia on 72 occasions.
John Lehmann’s team of Beverley Bretag, Marie Leh-
Gary Knight’s team of Cheryl McDonald, Helen Roll and Graham McDonald were the most successful Horsham team on day one of the championships.
mann and Hux Mitchell were the most successful team on day two, winning both of their games.
A highlight of day two was an excellent win over Cohuna Bowling Club – all rinks were victorious in the win.
Cohuna had previously defeated Ocean Grove, which went on to win the championship by defeating a team from Bendigo in the final.
of his eight goals with team-mate Jordan Waite to help
to a five-point win over Horsham on Saturday. The new recruit has kicked 19 goals for the season – six majors when the Roos played Stawell and five against Nhill. Calder comes to the Roos fresh from a season in Northern Territory Football League after playing for Mornington in Mornington Peninsula Football Netball League last year. Story, page 65.
