The Weekly Advertiser – Wednesday, March 27, 2024

UNITED IN CELEBRATION: From left, Sammy, Sachita, Roshil and Ram Upadhyaya embrace the colours of the Holi festival at Horsham Botanic Gardens. Holi is a popular Hindu festival widely celebrated in Nepal and India. More than 20 people from Horsham Nepalese families gathered to celebrate Holi on Saturday. Ms Upadhyaya said if other people from Nepalese, Indian or other South Asian diasporas in the region were interested in celebrating the festival next year, they could contact her by emailing sachita.pudasaini@hrcc.vic.gov. au. Picture: COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

School amalgamation

BY LAUREN HENRY

Three Lutheran schools in the Wimmera will merge under one leadership structure starting in 2025.

Horsham’s Holy Trinity Lutheran College, Dimboola’s St Peter’s Lutheran School and Nhill Lutheran School will merge to form Wimmera Lutheran College.

Under the new school structure, all schools will share resources, streamline administration and compliance requirements, and deliver greater access to resources and opportunities for students and staff.

A new overarching executive principal will support each school’s own

school leader, with each school to maintain its own identity.

An amalgamation team with representatives from each school has been working together to finalise the establishment of a single board that will govern the three schools.

The Nhill and Dimboola schools provide primary education to 58 and 27 students respectively, while the Horsham school caters to 587 students from foundation to year 12. The three schools collectively have more than 100 staff.

Lutheran Education Victoria NSW Tasmania executive director Colin Minke said all three schools had been working collaboratively for ‘some time now’ so the amalgamation was

a natural progression of the existing relationship.

“This is an opportunity to better cater for the educational needs of our students and increase efficiency by sharing resources,” he said.

“With increasing compliance measures and expectations in the administration of a school, streamlining some of these areas means there is better use of resources and time.

“We don’t envisage challenges for students and families and are committed to making it a smooth transition.”

When asked about whether the names or the uniforms of each school would change, Mr Minke said it would be a matter for the new board to decide.

“But each site will continue to have its own identity based on its location and history. We don’t expect there to be any changes to uniform in 2025,” he said.

“Our priority right now is helping our school communities understand and adjust to the new amalgamated school model.”

Mr Minke said regular updates would be communicated to staff, parents and the wider school community as the new structure was finalised in coming months.

Nhill Lutheran School principal Damon Prenzler said his school was excited about the resources a merger could provide students, and the leadership and professional development

opportunities for staff. “Our schools share the same Lutheran values and commitment to educational excellence, so it feels like the right fit for us to continue to work together,” he said.

Holy Trinity acting principal Jason Przibilla said the amalgamation was about leveraging strengths from all three schools to form a stronger educational platform.

“We already share resources across areas like business management, finances, maintenance and some specialist staff, but there are other areas where we can improve efficiencies and ensure that our main focus is on educational outcomes for our students,” he said.

City Oval netball courts ready for new season

As the netball season approaches, Horsham Rural City Council is ensuring that the new courts at City Oval will be ready for the opening round.

Horsham City Oval is undergoing a transformative redevelopment, and Council is committed to delivering top facilities for players and spectators.

Will the netball courts be ready for the season?

Yes, final compliance testing has been completed and the courts are now ready for play. Is the lighting and landscaping ready?

Lighting compliance testing has been completed and the lighting is finished. Minimal landscaping is in place at the moment, with the remainder to be undertaken in conjunction with the netball pavilion build.

Will there be toilets available for netballers etc?

Relocatable site toilets will be provided for use by the netballers and general public during home games.

Recently upgraded toilets on the O'Callaghans Parade side of City Oval will also be available.

What is the timeline for the new netball pavillion?

Temporary changerooms are being provided for the upcoming season in the nearby former ambulance station building.

Council is still in the procurement phase for the pavillion. Market response to the project tender has been over budget on two occasions. Council has determined that an innovative response is required to deliver the functional design required for the facility while containing costs within the budget.

A new tender to design and construct the netball pavilion will be released to market early next week.

How is HRCC working with HFNC to ensure disruption is minimalised during the construction period?

Council holds monthly meetings with the club and other City Oval stakeholders, to ensure disruption is minimised during the

ROADWORKS UNDERWAY

Road crews are making the most of stable late summer and autumn weather to enhance our local road network.

From sealing urban streets to upgrading rural roads, here’s a list of ongoing projects:

URBAN ROADWORKS

Station Street, Natimuk

Sealing of the middle section to improve road surface quality and durability.

Fischer Street, Pimpinio

Upgrading from a gravel road to an Otta Seal to enhance accessibility and durability for residents.

Small Street, Horsham

Full length resealed

Hocking Street, Horsham

Reconstructed with drainage and footpaths to create a more pedestrian-friendly environment and better parking access to City Oval.

Angling Clubrooms, Horsham Sealing of the carpark.

Nature and Water Play Park, Horsham

Sealing of the carpark to provide better access for families enjoying the park.

MICROSEALING

• Baillie Street, Horshamcompleted

• Pynsent Street, Horshamcompleted

• Hillary Street, Horshamcompleted

RURAL WORKS

Dimboola-Minyip Road, Kalkee Reconstruction and widening to 6.2 meters.

Horsham-Lubeck Road, Lubeck Reconstruction and widening to 6.2 meters.

Polkemmet Road, Polkemmet Reconstruction and widening to 6.2 meters.

Banyena Road, Jung North

Shoulder construction work to strengthen the road infrastructure

Wail-Dooen Road, Dooen Upgraded from a gravel road to an Otta Seal

GRADING

While the dry weather has aided road construction projects, it has not suited rural road grading due to the lack of moisture in road bases.

However grading maintenance will likely be in full swing from mid April or after the autumn break of season.

construction period.

Is the project still on track?

The new netball pavillion project is very much on track. Funding for the completion of the new netball changerooms and multi-purpose space is confirmed through a Sport and Recreation Victoria grant and Council’s Capital Works budget.

The minor delay in the procurement phase is a fiscally prudent action to ensure that costs are contained within the available budget. Our funding partner, Sport and Recreation Victoria, is well aware of the situation and is supporting HRCC in finding a responsible resolution.

Have a question about the City Oval redevelopment?

Give us a call on 53829777.

Easter Service Arrangements

CUSTOMER SERVICE

Civic Centre closed from 5pm Thursday 28 March until 8.30am Tuesday 2 April. For urgent Council matters contact 5382 9777 or enter an online service request.

KERBSIDE WASTE COLLECTIONS

No collection Good Friday. Residents whose usual bin collection is Friday will have bins collected Thursday. All other services will be as normal during the Easter period.

HORSHAM TRANSFER STATION

Good Friday: Closed Easter Saturday: 10am – 2pm

Easter Sunday: 10am – 2pm

Easter Monday: 10am – 2pm

DOOEN LANDFILL

Good Friday: Closed

Easter Saturday: Closed

Easter Sunday: Closed

Easter Monday: 10am – 2pm

LOCAL LAWS

Available for urgent domestic animal matters during the Easter period. Call 53 829777 or lodge an online request.

HORSHAM AQUATIC CENTRE

Good Friday: Closed (24/7 members can access the gym)

Easter Saturday: 8am - 4pm

Easter Sunday: 8am - 4pm

Easter Monday: 8am - 4pm

HORSHAM LIBRARY

Closed all public holidays

CHILDREN'S AND COMMUNITY HUB

The Hub closes at 4pm Thursday March 28 and reopens 9am Tuesday April 2. The Maternal and Child Health Service is closed during this period.

Contact the 24-hour Victorian Maternal and Child Health Line for information and advice on 13 22 29.

HORSHAM TOWN HALL AND VISITOR INFORMATION SERVICES

Good Friday: Closed

Easter Saturday: 10am – 4pm

Easter Sunday: 10am – 4pm

Easter Monday: 10am – 4pm

HORSHAM REGIONAL ART GALLERY

Good Friday: Closed Easter Saturday: 10am – 4pm

Easter Sunday: 10am – 4pm

Easter Monday: 10am – 4pm

If your usual collection day is a Friday your bins will be emptied on Thursday. Put them out on Wednesday evening or by 6am on Thursday.

Kerbside collections will operate as usual Easter Monday.

TENDERS AND RFQ

24-020

ARCHITECT SERVICES - DEPOT

RELOCATION SCHEMATIC DESIGN Design and documentation for new Operations Depot on Plumpton Rd. Closes Thursday 11 April

24-022

HORSHAM CITY OVAL NETBALL

PAVILION - DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION

Design and Construction of a netball pavilion and associated infrastructure and landscaping at Horsham City Oval. Closes Thursday 9 May

All

HAVE YOUR SAY

Current Community Engagements

AGE FRIENDLY PLAN

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

The draft plan is available for public comment until Monday 29 April.

ANNUAL ACTION PLAN 2024-2025

The Annual Action Plan governs how Council will deliver commitments set by the four-year plan on a yearly basis. Feedback closes Wednesday 27 April.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT POLICY

Submissions close 5pm Wednesday 27 March.

DRAFT EARLY YEARS PLAN 20242028

The Draft Early Years Plan is open for feedback until Monday 8 April. The plan will guide the direction of HRCC's early years programs and aims to lay the groundwork for a successful future for children and families.

HORSHAM AND NATIMUK HOUSING STRATEGY

Council will soon a develop a 15-year plan to manage growth and change across residential areas in Horsham and Natimuk.

People can find out more about the strategy and planned consultation opportunities by visiting HRCC’s website or contacting Strategic Planning Coordinator Jasmine Butler on 53829777.

For details visit the Have

Your Say section of HRCC's website

Horsham service station approved

BY LAUREN HENRY

After a lengthy debate, Horsham Rural City Council approved a planning application for a service station to be built on the southern outskirts of Horsham.

The development, at Lot 1, 1 Western Highway, Riverside, includes two bowser canopies – one with eight fuel bowsers for cars and the other with six for trucks – a single-storey building with a lounge, toilets, kitchens and seating area, plus 76 car parking spaces and 10 truck parking spaces.

At Monday night’s council meeting, councillors first debated an alternative to the council officer’s recommendation, with Cr Claudia Haenel proposing a motion to reject the development.

However, debate ensued about the wording of her motion because it did not outline reasons why the council should oppose the service station.

Mayor Robyn Gulline said it was not a valid motion, but Cr Haenel strongly objected, with Cr Gulline telling Cr Haenel: ‘Can you just listen to me for a moment please... you need to state the grounds for it to be a valid motion’.

Council chief executive Sunil Bhalla intervened to assist with the wording of the motion.

Cr Ian Ross enquired whether the

matter could be deferred, but the council was told it risked being referred to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal, VCAT, if the council delayed the matter too long.

If a planning issue is heard before VCAT, it could cost the council between $8000 and $15,000, depending on the length of the hearing.

Cr Haenel said the development was ‘short-sighted’ and did not take into consideration future generations.

“This is development that is not sustainable. It does not take into account people or the environment. No one I’ve spoken to wants to add to the 13 service stations we already have,” she said.

Cr Haenel said she would prefer to see a new service station located at Wail or Dooen – out of Horsham and not on the outskirts.

“The Western Highway with its trucks through Horsham is not safe,” she said.

“Evidence from Coroners reports tells us that, and now with all the objectors trying to access driveways and a proposed gas plant next door, it is an accident waiting to happen, and a risk to our council.”

Cr Haenel said while the officer’s report stated the development would result in ‘acceptable’ planning, the council should be aiming for excellence in planning.

‘Art is in the Air’

A group of artists from the WartookLaharum region is hoping for a large community response to its exhibition at Laharum during the Easter long weekend.

The group, known as Gariwerd Artists, will present a show titled ‘Art is in the Air’ at Laharum Community Hall.

It is the third exhibition hosted by the group, and member Loretta Emerson said members hoped to make an Easter show an annual event.

“For our first exhibition, we had about 80 people at our opening and about 200 in total during the show period, which coincided with the Art is… festival,” she said.

“The next exhibition was last October and we had about 40 to 45 at our opening and about 100 in total.

“We’re hoping we can get between 50 and 60 people at our opening this time, and as it’s at Easter, we’re hoping we can get a few hundred people across the weekend.

“We’re now planning on having it at Easter every year and we’re hop-

Cr Bowe said a large-scale petrol station proposed a threat to Horsham’s core values of tranquillity, lifestyle and natural environment.

He also raised the risk to road safety for residents and highway motorists.

“Our community voice has been very clear – 15 objections indicating widespread apprehension towards this development,” he said.

“These are not mere statistics, they are genuine concerns about the increased traffic, potential accidents, and irreversible environmental damage.”

Cr Penny Flynn opposed the motion to deny the planning permit.

“All I’ll say is I’m not a planning expert, but I believe we employ suitably-qualified planners who understand the policies and frameworks of the Horsham Planning Scheme,” she said.

“What is being presented to us is that it fits within this scheme.”

Cr Power said Horsham Regional Livestock Exchange attracted a lot of trucks and having a service station on the southern edge of the city would alleviate some drivers travelling into town for fuel or food.

“We’re trying to keep trucks out of town – this is one way we can,” he said.

Cr Ross said he was torn about the development, and would have liked to have been provided information about

what grounds the council could use at VCAT to successfully reject the planning permit.

He said he was concerned about run-off of the chemicals into the surrounding soil, and lack of mature vegetation.

“I believe it is located in an appropriate area for a service station because it is on the edge of town and the edge of industrial areas,” he said.

“Compared to the proposed Dooen Road site, it is far enough away from the neighbours, so it is not a risk to health.

“It captures the traffic coming into town so it saves congestion in town.”

Cr Gulline said the council was asked to apply the law and suitable planning agencies had approved the planning application, with conditions.

“A rigorous assessment by our qualified staff has found no valid grounds for refusal,” she said.

“This is the time when we need to apply the law – not come up with a whole range of opinions or ideologies.”

The alternative motion lost, 2-4, with only Crs Haenel and Bowe supporting the rejection.

Cr Flynn moved the original motion – as per the council officer’s recommendation – with Cr Power the seconder, saying the project would provide jobs in Horsham.

ing there will be a lot more people out and about.”

Ms Emerson said the group contained a diverse array of artists.

“We have some potters, we’ve a couple who do quilting and textile art and someone weaves and dyes silk. Then there are artists who work in acrylics, oils and watercolours,” she said.

“We’ve held a couple of workshops

in pottery, fabric printing and painting, so we try to get other people interested in developing a talent.

“We started off with about six members and we now have 11 or 12, so we’re growing slowly.”

The group collaborated on a fiveby-two-metre work called ‘The Sky’s the Limit’ specifically for the exhibition, employing a range of stencil and lino-cut techniques.

TOGETHER:

From left, Ray Colvin, Loretta Emerson, Don Sharples, Gill Venn and Isabelle Martin of the Gariwerd Artists group work on a giant piece titled ‘The Sky’s the Limit’ ahead of their Easter exhibition ‘Art is in the Air’.

Picture: COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Ms Emerson said some works would be on sale during the weekend and encouraged people to attend. “We like people to buy our work, because you can’t keep hoarding all your paintings,” she said.

‘Art is in the Air’ will host an opening night event at 7pm tomorrow, with the exhibition running from 10am to 4pm on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Cr Haenel attempted to interrupt Cr Flynn after she said competition and devaluation of property was not relevant consideration in the assessment of a planning application.

The Mayor had to intervene, asking Cr Haenel to stop on several occasions and telling her to ‘please be quiet’, as Cr Flynn continued to speak to her motion.

Cr Flynn cited service stations on the outskirts of Ballarat, Stawell and Ararat as examples of similar developments.

“Organisations are not going to make investments in the community if they cannot forecast it being worthwhile and it is not for us to judge or comment on what the future may hold for their business,” she said.

Cr Haenel again reiterated her reasons for opposing the development.

“It’s mostly brought in by people who don’t live in Horsham, so I find that really disappointing, that the actual residents who have to deal with these developments are not adequately represented when it’s just a squeaky wheel of a few ‘yay-sayers’ saying this is what we want,” she said.

Councillors voted 4-2 in support to approve the planning permit, with Crs Haenel and Bowe opposing.

Tin-rattling on Good Friday

The Country Fire Authority is asking the community to dig deep and donate for the Good Friday Appeal.

CFA brigades across Victoria have raised more than $37 million for the Royal Children’s Hospital since 1951.

The Stawell brigade has collected $878,614 since starting in 1971.

Last year the brigade, with help from local businesses, raised $54,052. Brigade member Reg Smith, his wife Dianne and fellow member Noel Cray started fundraising for the appeal and have been involved for 53 years.

“We try and raise as much as we can for the hospital. We think it’s such a great cause getting to help the kids,” Mr Smith said.

“Two of our kids and one grandson attended the hospital, so it’s a cause close to our hearts.

“We also get so many people around Stawell wanting to help the cause because they have some connection to it.”

CFA brigades are also fundraising online via fundraise.goodfriday appeal.com.au/find-a-fundraiser.

Olympic hopeful to run at Stawell

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Australia’s most successful modern middle-distance runner will headline this weekend’s Stawell Gift, with Peter Bol committing to race in the Adidas Invitational 1000m handicap.

Bol is a three-time Australian 800-metre champion and finished fourth in the 800-metre final at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 – the highest finish by an Australian in more than half a century.

The 1000-metre invitational will pit Bol, 30, against the next generation of Australian middle-distance runners, including Victorian 1500-metre champion Riley Bryce, Australian under-17 800-metre champion Austin Fernando and Victorian under-20 800-metre champion Hamish Donohue.

The winner of the 1000-metre invitational, which will be run between the men’s and women’s Stawell Gift finals on Monday, will take home $5000.

Clinic expands

An Opioid Management Clinic at Ballarat Community Health, which supports people across the Grampians, Loddon and Mallee regions, is expanding its services.

The specialist clinic received additional funding from the Victorian Department of Health to provide an extra two sessions a week.

The expansion for the next 18 months comes amid growing demand for services across the region, with a waiting time of up to six weeks.

From last week, expanded services include a telehealth clinic every Monday from 11.30am to 3.30pm and a face-to-face or telehealth clinic each Thursday from 8.30am to noon, in addition to an existing clinic each Friday from 8.30am to 3.30pm at Ballarat Community Health’s site at Lucas.

About 75 percent of appointments are via telehealth, removing barriers to access treatment across the region.

The clinic is overseen by Orticare, the Grampians Loddon Mallee Pharmacotherapy Area Based Network, and covers Central Highlands, Grampians, Loddon and Mallee regions.

Opioid Management Clinic co-ordinator Leigh Thornton said the extra sessions would help to alleviate the backlog and open up appointments.

Mr Thornton said people using the clinic would have no out-of-pocket expenses, but required a referral from a medical practitioner such as a GP, nurse practitioner or psychiatrist.

More information is available at www.pabn.org.au and bchc.org.au.

“I always love watching Stawell every year,” Bol said.

“The women’s 1000m in 2023 was a great race and I’m excited to run that same distance. I hope we have a great race.”

Stawell Gift Event Management chairman Murray Emerson said organisers were thrilled to entice a runner of Bol’s calibre to Stawell.

“Having Australia’s best 800-metre runner, who is preparing for the Olympics coming up later this year, is a real coup for us. We’re very excited about that,” he said.

“He’s bringing some of his fellow Olympic aspirants with him to run as well.”

Mr Emerson said there would also be plenty of excitement in the men’s and women’s gifts, with 2023 champions Ryan Tarrant and Bella Pasquali returning to defend their respective titles.

He said both would be given tough assignments, with handicappers pull-

ing Pasquali back to a 2.5-metre mark and Tarrant running off scratch.

“It’s a big ask for them to improve that much, but it has happened before,” he said.

Mr Emerson said about 900 entrants would take part in this year’s gift, spread across 27 events.

Betting reinstated

He said betting on events would also be reinstated after a community outcry.

In February, organisers announced plans to suspend betting at the Stawell Gift after the State Government introduced legislation banning wagering on athletes under the age of 19.

But Mr Emerson said the Stawell Gift Event Management board revised its position after further discussion with the government, the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission and sponsors.

“We worked out that we could do it without any risk. So we’ve reinstated

it and brought in a bit of governance to make sure there’s no wagering on anybody under the age of 19,” he said.

“You disqualify, in our instance, anybody under 19 from the betting agencies.

“The bookmakers who are there will be scrutinised and given all the information about the ages of the entrants by the Victorian Athletic League.

“We’ll have a supervisor there across the three days to monitor them and make sure they’re not betting on minors.

“The responsibility is with the agency, because if they break the law, there are very stiff penalties and they won’t be able to operate at the Stawell Gift any longer.”

Mr Emerson said the board was ‘quite comfortable’ with the decision to partially reinstate betting.

He said popular off-track events and entertainment, such as Saturday’s Fashions Day, would return, with this year’s theme encouraging attendees

to dress up in ‘black and white with a dash of red’.

A family day on Sunday will feature a children’s athletic clinic, face painting, an Easter egg hunt and an inflatable slide.

Mr Emerson said the Stawell community was set to benefit, with a Main Street Extravaganza returning on Saturday morning, along with Friday’s Great Western Rodeo and Saturday’s Stawell Gold Cup – giving visitors plenty of reason to explore the region.

“Our wineries and restaurants will be busy throughout the weekend,” he said.

“Northern Grampians Shire Council has Central Park looking in fantastic condition, and we’re hopeful we’ll get some good weather and see people streaming through the gates.”

People can find more information about the Stawell Gift by visiting www.stawellgift.com.

Two fatal crashes

Two people have died in separate car crashes in the Wimmera in the past week.

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal crash in Rostron, south of St Arnaud, on Sunday morning.

Emergency services were called to the vicinity of Wingfield and Sandy Creek roads following reports a car had crashed into a tree just before 11.30am.

The driver, and sole occupant of the vehicle, died at the scene and is yet to be formally identified.

On Thursday, a person died in a collision between a car and a truck on the Henty Highway, near Langs Road, at Mockinya.

The car driver died at the scene, while the truck driver was not injured and is assisting police with their enquiries.

Traffic needed to be diverted away from the Henty Highway as emergency services remained on scene.

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash and will prepare a report for the coroner.

Anyone who witnessed either incident or has dashcam footage, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppers vic.com.au.

FIRST SEMESTER: Federation University Wimmera campus director Christine Brown, back left, with students, back, Amanda Baker and Shane Sullivan; and front, Lisa Barr, Tayla Fitzpatrick and Christine Hubbard at the campus’ TAFE Fest last week. Federation University invited students to explore support service stalls, enjoy a barbecue and socialise at a juggling workshop and tiny goats zone as they settle into their studies for 2024.

Picture: ABBY WALTER

The broken gate can wait, until it can’t.

Livestock is the second highest killer on farms – we all know cattle can be unpredictable.

So while it may seem like a job that’ll take longer to get the tools out than do, one small repair could save a life.

Understand your responsibilities with safety around cattle at worksafe.vic.gov.au/livestock It’s never you, until it is.

Scan for farm safety support.

A mobile generation

BY ABBY WALTER

Education and industry leaders across the Wimmera are being encouraged to embrace the changes Generation Z, born between 1995 and 2009, need in learning and employment.

A collaborative webinar between Department of Education and research organisation, McCrindle, gave insights to Wimmera and South West attendees about Generation Z.

McCrindle Research director of strategy Grant Dusting said culture, purpose and impact were key considerations for leading and training Generation Z.

He said Generation Z was a digitally integrated generation and had an expectation of a mobile lifestyle, compared with previous generations.

“For this generation, digital is not separate, it is intertwined with their lives seamlessly and this is the case more than the generations before them,” he said.

“When we think about technology, we think about new tech, but it’s worth reflecting on the outgoing tech. Some Gen Zs might never own a physical credit card, a wallet or an analogue watch, as all of these functions are increasingly being performed on smart devices such as an Apple Watch.”

“We need to be conscious there are certain communication and language barriers the digital world presents to us.”

Mr Dusting said World Economic Forum statistics predicted two of three children entering primary school today would end up working in jobs that do not yet exist.

“I think that is a key takeaway for educators and those training Gen Z; one of the best things we can do is to equip them with the disposition of lifelong learning,” he said.

“The world is changing very quickly, and today’s workers are finding an increasing need to develop the habit of refreshing their skills and learning completely new ones.”

Mr Dusting said a mobile lifestyle included working from anywhere and endless opportunities.

He said a current school leaver could expect to have 18 different jobs across six different careers in their lifetime.

“We’ve seen remote working become increasingly possible. Not in every job or industry is it going to be possible to work remotely, but what has changed is we’re calling it the work from anywhere era,” he said.

“There is an expectation that if work doesn’t need to be location-bound it shouldn’t be.

“There’s also strong entrepreneurial spirit we see across Gen Z, not to say everyone wants to run their own business, but in one of our national studies, 86 percent

“We found, through recent surveys, entry-level hospitality across the region was struggling for workforce. In our region, we see a high level of apprenticeship and traineeship completion, but what we don’t do as well is retain those people”

– Mark Fletcher, right

of high school and tertiary students say they want to work in something they have started themselves.

“Just 14 percent of Gen Z are looking for traditional employment in terms of a 9am to 5pm, which highlights how the mindset has shifted.

“The challenge and opportunity for leaders is how can we ground them with a sense of purpose and direction when there feels like endless and sometimes overwhelming options.”

Mr Dusting said with the traits of Gen Z in mind, it was important to think about how they wanted to learn and work.

“Number one, if you are a workplace leader, building culture will be key and there’s a few ways that can be done,” he said.

“When it comes to communication and feedback there’s some key differences with Gen Z. They are more likely to prefer receiving praise and positive feedback a few times a week. They are also up for constructive feedback – they are keen on shorter, more regular conversations when it comes to feedback.”

Leadership style

Mr Dusting said another key shift was in leadership style, and Gen Z wanted a more collaborative approach with someone who was approachable, a quality communicator and showed empathy.

He said Gen Z also looked for purpose and meaning within their career.

“We might say sometimes you have to do jobs you don’t like – but this is a window into their psyche, which is a key shift generationally,” he said.

“Increasingly work is not just seen as a job but it’s something linked to a sense of meaning and purpose as a person.”

Mr Dusting said celebrating impacts, personal and team wins, was the third factor to consider.

“What motivates people at work, across all ages, is seeing the positive impact of their work,” he said.

Department of Education, Jobs, Skills and Pathways manager for Wimmera and South West Andrew Hardiman said there was opportunity for industries to embrace modern ways to communicate with Generation Z.

He said rather than thinking about embracing what Generation Z need as a challenge, it was an opportunity.

“We know in the Wimmera and South West we are experiencing skills shortages, so the attraction of talent is really competitive and attraction of young people to keep our industries surviving is important,” he said.

The webinar concluded with a panel discussion, which included insights from Wimmera Southern Mallee Development regional development program manager Mark Fletcher and Wimmera Southern Mallee LLEN executive officer Vanessa O’Loughlin.

Mr Fletcher said the organisation was working towards building and stabilising the population.

“We’ve been doing a lot of work about looking at the skills required for up-andcoming industries,” he said.

“We found, through recent surveys, entry-level hospitality across the region was struggling for workforce.

“In our region, we see a high level of apprenticeship and traineeship completion, but what we don’t do as well is retain those people.”

Mr Fletcher said Generation Z was more likely to relocate, change jobs or change careers.

“It’s interesting to have conversations about how we can engage with certain age groups and keep them engaged in their workforce, it’s definitely a challenge and a new mindset is needed,” he said.

Mrs O’Loughlin said LLENs created partnerships between industries, schools and community.

“The Department of Education sees LLENs as such a good fit and ally for supporting their reforms and priorities,” she said.

“We run programs that increase aspirations, give young people opportunities to explore careers, pathway modelling, hands-on applied learning and workplace opportunities.

“We have one thing in common, we want to build, create and encourage positive futures for our young people.”

Money for Kaniva

Kaniva College will receive $2000 to install three flagpoles as part of the Federal Government’s Saluting Their Service, STS, commemorative grants program.

The program will distribute more than $1 million Australiawide for projects that celebrate and commemorate local Australian Defence Force veterans.

Grants are available to applicants including ex-service organisations, community groups, schools and local councils. STS offers community grants of up to $10,000 for local, community-based commemorative activities, with major grants of between $10,001 and $150,000 available for commemorative projects with national, state, territory, or regional impact.

Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Matt Keogh said the grants would make an impact in their communities.

“Australia’s service personnel come from all corners of our vast nation, this program ensures that the stories of local heroes are known, and recognised,” he said.

To find more information about the grants or apply, people can visit www.grants.gov.au.

Projects in planning

West Wimmera Shire Council will apply for State Government funding for two key sport and recreational facilities at Edenhope and Kaniva.

At a council meeting on Wednesday, the council agreed to apply for $1 million in funding to upgrade the Edenhope Recreation Reserve football changerooms, and $675,000 to upgrade the Kaniva Memorial Swimming Pool.

The funding applications will be made to the government’s Regional Community Sport Infrastructure Fund.

The Edenhope Recreation Reserve project includes construction of two new changerooms, each with three toilets and four shower cubicles, umpire changerooms, fully accessible firstaid rooms and public toilets.

The new facility, to be built between the netball courts and football oval, will meet current AFL standards and is projected to cost about $1.6 million.

“The decision to include a Changing Places facility in our plans demonstrates our commitment to addressing the needs identified by our community members”

– David Bezuidenhout

Chief executive David Bezuidenhout said the council was committed to enhancing community infrastructure and supporting local sports clubs.

“We believe the facility will not only benefit the EdenhopeApsley Football Netball Club but also serve as a hub for community events and activities,” he said.

“If we receive this funding, we’re confident we can deliver a project the whole community can be proud of.”

The Kaniva project includes installation of a Changing Places facility, plus improvements to changerooms, pathways and amenities, costing a total of $900,000.

If the grant application is successful, the council will contrib-

ute $225,000 towards the project.

A request received via the council’s innovation platform sparked the inclusion of a Changing Places facility, which will provide a high-level, all-abilities toilet and changeroom amenities.

Currently, the closest Changing Places facilities are in Horsham or Adelaide.

Mr Bezuidenhout said the enhancements would create a more welcoming environment for all community members.

“The decision to include a Changing Places facility in our plans demonstrates our commitment to addressing the needs identified by our community members,” he said.

“The addition of this facility to the Kaniva pool will fill a crucial gap and provide much-needed support for individuals with diverse abilities in our area.”

The project will complement other planned upgrades for the Kaniva pool, including the construction of a new splash park, which council applied for funding for earlier this year.

Armstrong to lead Victorian Nationals

Ararat councillor Joanne Armstrong will become the new president of the Victorian Nationals after the party’s state conference in Bendigo on May 25.

Ms Armstrong was elected uncontested after being the only candidate at the close of nominations. She will replace outgoing president Neil Pankhurst.

After helping guide the party as senior vice-president for the past three years, Ms Armstrong said she would draw on her positive experiences from Ararat Rural City Council and within The Nationals of being part of a teamfocused environment.

A Tatyoon resident, Ms Armstrong has been a champion of

her community – being a councillor for eight years, where she has served as mayor and deputy mayor.

“It’s an honour to be elected president and I look forward to working as a strong team with the extraordinary people that make up The National Party in Victoria,” she said.

HONOUR: Kayla White, left, and Astrid O’Connor won national awards at Optical Dispensers Australia, ODA, Gala in Melbourne. Picture: PAUL

Eyecare duo win recognition

Two Horsham Quinn and Co Eyecare staff were honoured for their work at the Optical Dispensers Australia, ODA, Gala in Melbourne.

ODA was established two years ago as Australia’s peak body for the optical dispensing profession.

A feature of the gala was the ODA National Excellence Awards honouring the country’s most outstanding optical dispensers and celebrating the contribution they make to the industry and within their workplaces.

Horsham’s Astrid O’Connor won ‘rookie of the year’ and Kayla White won the ‘role model and leadership’ award.

Ms O’Connor’s nomination, which was submitted eight months into her role with the organisation, described her as formidable and successful.

“She has taken on the responsibility of overseeing all quality control checks at our practice, managing sundry sales and

ordering, and has begun studying with Australasia College of Optical Dispensing,” the nomination read.

“Despite these additional tasks, she continues to excel in her primary roles of dispensing, administration and reception.”

Ms White’s nomination said she consistently strived to optimise task efficiency and effectively manage time.

“She has generously shared her expertise by travelling to other practice locations to provide training for new optical dispensers,” the nomination read.

“Additionally, Kayla has offered encouragement and support to those struggling with the Certificate IV Optical Dispensing course, inspiring them to persevere.

“She has motivated optical assistants to pursue the optical dispensing course by sharing the valuable skills and knowledge she has acquired through her own experience in optical dispensing.”

CARRACHER

Poolwerx dives in at new location

Poolwerx Horsham will combine a fresh, modern showroom with nods to local history when it opens its new premises at 58 Darlot Street next week.

The building – which has previously housed an auto mechanic, smash repair shop, auto electrician and, most recently, Barbeques Galore – will be the new permanent home of both Poolwerx and Horsham Living, providing pool servicing, products and support, along with a range of poolside furniture and decor.

Poolwerx franchisee Gary Howden, a former licensee of Horsham’s Telstra store for more than 25 years, said he and owners Grace and James Dixon wanted to acknowledge the history of the building while providing an exciting space for customers.

“We’ve retained the history by polishing the concrete and revealing steel that was in the oor for straightening cars and things like that.

“That’s all exposed now and it looks brilliant,” he said.

“Grace is loving exploring what’s possible with the outdoor living furniture in a massive, brand-new showroom.”

Mr Howden said the new showroom was designed by creative agency Space Between, whose owner Dave Clark is from Donald and helped set up athletic brand

Nike’s New York and London showrooms.

“We’ve put a three-by-two-metre LED screen on the wall to be able to help. If you’re looking for a particular lounge suite or something else, we might not have it

in stock but we can bring it up on the screen and work through with customers what they want,” he said.

“We’ve got track lighting and other things to make the whole showroom sparkle.”

Mr Howden said circumstances beyond his control had forced Poolwerx Horsham to move from the Wilson Street location where it was established last year, but that community support had been tremendous.

“We were very fortunate to have Stuart and Tracey Hobbs at Total Tools agree to let us use a little shop they owned next door to set up Poolwerx as a pop-up while we were hunting for a future home,” he said.

Mr Howden said Mr and Ms Dixon were excited to run the business together.

“James is a mechanic by trade and did 10 years at Wilson Bolton, then spent ve years at Agriculture Victoria.

“Grace was also at Agriculture Victoria doing plant breeding, so this is a new venture for them.”

Mr Howden, who opened a Poolwerx franchise in Bendigo in 2020 before selling it in 2022, said he would provide his expertise to the pair as they established the business.

“I’m from a franchise background, and I know how it works,” he said.

“Poolwerx has got a recipe that’s easy to follow, and we feel like we’ve been able to replicate it successfully.”

Poolwerx and Horsham Living is located at 58 Darlot Street and will open on April 2.

People can visit website poolwerx.com.au/locations/vic/ poolwerx-horsham, Facebook page facebook.com/poolwerx horsham, or call 0472 662 554 for more information.

Grace and James Dixon are excited to open their new showroom in Darlot Street, Horsham.

Connection key

Local footy and netball returns to the region this weekend, with Stawell hosting Ararat in a Good Friday match on the Wimmera Football Netball League fixture.

While the remainder of the league won’t start until round one officially kicks off on April 20, and Horsham District and North Central leagues on April 13 – it is certainly good to see football action at a local level begin after the AFL got underway weeks ago.

But are people really in the swing of footy season?

After reading a statistic last week that 20 percent of Australians are ‘sports-haters’, it made me think twice about the notion.

It goes against my genetic make-up to not be interested in footy, and many other sports, as I was raised by two sports-loving parents with a wider circle of family and friends playing and interested in sports.

While as Collingwood supporters, the family chat has been a little quiet in recent weeks, most weeks our family’s conversations are heavily dominated by the topic of sport – whether it be tennis, cricket, horse racing or another game that is dominating media at the time.

When I was younger, particularly at secondary school where I attended Assumption College Kilmore – back then a school heavily-focused on participating in sport – I used to think it to be quite bizarre if someone I met did not support an AFL team.

But as I get older – and have experienced life and other cultures – my eyes have been opened to the fact there are other interests and hobbies in life that don’t involve sport.

And guess what? Millions of people enjoy these ‘other’ activities.

According to surveys by The Conversation that found sport haters account for about 20 percent of the Australian popula-

EDITORIAL

By Lauren Henry

tion, the demographics of this group are significantly more likely to be female, younger and more affluent than other Australians. It could have been caused by negative experiences as a child, social exclusion or marginalisation, sexism or racism.

I know it’s hard to fathom for some as we live in a region where the social fabric of most communities is woven through the town or district’s sporting clubs.

For many, it is such a big part of life in our region – a place to play the game you love, to meet up with friends and family, and a hub to provide a place for connection.

So to those who don’t belong to a local sporting club – you don’t even need to like or know the rules about that sport to belong.

Every single club needs more volunteers to help continue to provide a place for people to connect, make friends and have a social outlet.

Community sporting clubs have more farreaching benefits than just providing fitness and enjoyment.

They are essential for our community’s physical and mental health, providing a place to form cultural and social connection.

I guarantee there will be a volunteer role with your name on it, no matter what your interests or skillset.

And who knows, it’s never too late – you might just find yourself crossing over to become a sports lover, not a hater.

Stawell students brighten town

Primary school students from the Stawell region have created an artistic Easter egg hunt, with 18 collaborative works to be displayed across the town during the Easter holidays.

Students from Concongella, St Patrick’s, Stawell West and Stawell 502 primary schools created the installation with the support of Northern Grampians Shire Council, painting fibreglass eggs to decorate the town.

Mayor Rob Haswell and chief executive Brent McAlister instigated the creative initiative in response to positive community feedback about Christmas decorations in Stawell.

“We were looking for a new way to create a celebratory atmosphere in town and thought this would be a wonderful opportunity to encourage young artists in the community to develop creative confidence,” Cr Haswell said.

“Our economic development team has been working hard behind the scenes to engage with different community groups, support artistic enterprise and encourage community-focused initiatives, and I thought this would be a wonderful opportunity to showcase the creative talents of the young people in our community at a time when

there is an influx of tourists to the town. This art installation is about friends, family and fun – an interactive creative installation that will encourage people to get out and about in town and enjoy the holidays.

“The students have done such a fantastic job – the town looks amazing and I couldn’t be more proud.”

The Easter egg artworks, including four gold eggs, are on display in Main Street, Cato Park, Central Park and Coffee Palace Park.

Cr Haswell encouraged people to start a hunt and find all 18 of the artworks.

CREATIVE: St Patrick’s Primary School students Greta Thomas, left, and Charli Pickering help decorate one of 18 eggs located across Stawell during the Easter holidays.

Partner

Learn more

berrystreet.org.au/fostercare

Ph. 1800 816 037

Green Taylor Partners are seeking a dynamic and motivated individual to join our Administration team to support our current team on a full-time basis, however part-time is an option for the right candidate. Ideally, the successful candidate will be working in our office each weekday between 9am and 5pm, however this is negotiable for the successful candidate.

Our firm enjoys assisting a diverse group of fantastic clients throughout the Wimmera, greater Victoria and nationally. Our Vision is ‘to build relationships so that we enrich the lives of others’.

The successful candidate will be working in a team environment where caring for our clients is key. The role includes being a friendly face for our clients and key contacts (including the Australian Taxation Office), administration support for our accounting team and performing general office administration tasks.

Ideally, candidates will have:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

• Excellent customer service skills, including ability to be discreet with confidential matters.

• A team orientated focus, while being able to work autonomously when required.

• Ability to work to deadlines and effectively prioritise multiple tasks.

• Experience using Microsoft Office suite of software.

The following will be considered, but are not essential requirements:

• Administrative or secretarial studies

• Experience in previous Administration roles.

• Experience with social media for business.

To apply, please email your resume and covering letter to careers@greentaylor.com.au. Please include “Office Administration Application” in the subject line. Any further information required contact Vicky McClure on 5382 4761.

Green Taylor Partners is an equal opportunity employer.

We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.

Applications close Tuesday, April 16, 2024

Safety first plea

Victoria State Emergency Service volunteers in tourism hotspots such as the Grampians are encouraging people to come prepared before tackling challenging physical activities during the Easter long weekend.

The warning comes after VICSES volunteers were called to support Ambulance Victoria at several remote incidents in the Grampians National Park on the March long weekend, as hikers experienced mild to severe dehydration while undertaking nature walks in hot conditions.

With an expected increase in tourism during Easter, visitors to regional Victoria are urged to understand their limitations to avoid placing themselves or volunteer emergency responders at risk.

VICSES Grampians regional duty officer Jordan Bush said there were a wide range of bushwalks and hikes throughout the region, which could appeal to everyone.

“It’s important those visiting Victoria’s national parks know their limitations and plan their activities accordingly,” he said.

“Taking ample water and food for the trek and monitoring your activity in the 24 hours leading up to your walk can help limit your risk of requiring an emergency response.

“Don’t ration your water – instead ration your exertion and avoid walking in the late afternoon, which is often the hottest time of the day.”

Grampians National Park chief ranger Charlie Richardson said the natural environment could be unpredictable, and a bit of planning and foresight could make all the difference.

“Fences and barriers are there to keep you safe and to protect our environment and climbing barriers to get a perfect selfie or to look for a better view can lead to serious injury,” he said.

“Visitors should stay on marked tracks and designated visitor areas.

“Walking off track damages sensitive vegetation, compacts the ground and can spread plant diseases.”

Bushwalkers can also mitigate their risk by packing a map and compass, tracking their route through GPS, or by familiarising themselves with emergency markers designed to pinpoint their location in the event an emergency extrication is required.

People are advised to do the following if they are hiking or bushwalking:

• Keep away from hazardous trees, especially if conditions are windy.

• Wear appropriate footwear and clothes for the conditions expected, even if people think they won’t need it.

• Have communications equipment that will work where people are going, such as a satellite phone if walking for extended periods across low coverage areas. Consider radio backup, a Personal Locator Beacon, a copy of any important phone numbers, a phone charger, battery pack or other communications supplies. Tell someone what your plans are.

• Bring three to four litres of water a person.

• Pack what would be needed to be ready for an emergency.

Hikers, bushwalkers, and those planning to camp, are also encouraged to stay informed and monitor emergency warnings through the VicEmergency app, website and hotline 1800 226 226, and listen to emergency broadcasters such as ABC local radio, designated commercial radio stations and TV news stations.

People are reminded to call 132 500 if they require emergency assistance from VICSES, and Triple Zero in life-threatening emergencies. For more information visit www.ses.vic. gov.au/plan-and-stay-safe/on-holidays.

People can also check the Parks Victoria website for changes of conditions at www. parks.vic.gov.au/coc-listing.

BOWERS CHIROPRACTIC CENTRE

Hamstring Injuries

It’s that time of the year again.

It’s cold and you’re playing sport. You’ve warmed up and you’re running around on the netball court or football field and you feel that Oh so familiar twinge, in your hamstring

Or maybe the hamstring injury has already occurred and you’ve done the recovery exercises and something still isn’t right.

Often this is because the pelvis where the hamstring attaches to is out of alignment. It causes the muscles to shorten and increases the risk of injury or delay in recovery. This can also change the rest of the spinal movements as the body tries to compensate for the unusual movement of the pelvis.

When chiropractors are looking at your back, we’re looking at all of it seeing what’s working and what’s not. Chiropractic can help you move better and get more out of your game. Dr. Pauline Walsh B. Clinc Sci B. App.

GLIDE: Birchip is set to host its hang gliding event over Easter, with entry numbers growing this year.

Competitors glide into Birchip

More than 40 hang glider pilots are expected to converge on Birchip during Easter for the 33rd annual Flatter than the Flatlands competition.

The hang gliding event has grown significantly since it was first staged in April 1992, with this year’s entry figures up more than 30 percent from 2023.

The event is one of the biggest on the Sports Aviation Federation of Australia’s, SAFA, calendar, with organisers dubbing Birchip ‘the car-tow launching capital of Australia’.

Flatter than the Flatlands will see pilots from Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia, ACT

and New South Wales competing from Friday to Monday. Event organiser Phil Campbell said Birchip Flatter than the Flatlands was the best event for car-tow launching in Australia.

“The competition attracts mostly entry-level pilots as it usually guarantees fine and mellow conditions at this time of year with easy landings wherever you fly,” he said.

“What makes Flatter than the Flatlands such a great event for pilots of all experience levels is its relaxed and laid-back nature, with fun the aim of the game.

“The focus is all about having a good time with fellow pilots, whether you’re new to

the sport or have years of experience in the air.” Each day will start with a morning briefing at Birchip Cropping Group, followed by a task briefing in the tow paddock, 30km outside of the town.

Task distances are usually between 40km and 80km downwind, with no turn points and the dry, broadacre farming allows for easier landing paddock selection, meaning pilots are able to focus on staying in the air for longer than they would when flying near mountains.

People can find more details about Birchip Flatter than the Flatlands by visiting www. hgcomps.com.au.

TRADITION: Sarah Po Kyaut and Oh Pweh Moo Pae Htoo at a Horsham College Harmony Day Fiesta. Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER PROUD: Devang and Shivay Brahmbhatt at Diversity Day celebrations at Horsham

‘Our

Cultural Diversity Week brought celebrations to towns across the Wimmera last week to acknowledge and share in the region’s multicultural communities.

Cultural Diversity Week began on March 18, included Harmony Day on March 21 and concluded on March 24.

The 2024 Cultural Diversity Week theme invited people to weave a tapestry of vibrant experiences with ‘Our Shared Stories – Celebrating Together’.

Ararat started the celebrations on March 17, while Horsham’s Centre for Participation hosted a shared lunch and Nhill hosted a Harmony Day event on Thursday, a Harmony Festival, International Food and Cultural Performance took place in Stawell on Saturday and celebrations concluded at Horsham Town Hall on Sunday with a Diversity Day event.

Horsham College also hosted a Harmony Day event on Thursday to share food, dance and learn

more about other cultures. A highlight of the school’s event was a performance from Sarah Po Kyaut and Oh Pweh Moo Pae Htoo of the Karen community.

Horsham College captains Malachy O’Brien and Sienna Walsgott said, at the event, the celebration was about inclusiveness, respect and belonging for all, regardless of cultural or linguistic background.

“Harmony Day is a time to celebrate Australian multiculturalism and the successful integration of migrants into our community,” the captains said.

“The day itself builds on our Horsham College values of care, character, commitment and collaboration.

“Our sports, hobbies, fashion and fun are all a collection of fabulous contributions from around the world as people of all nationalities have moved to live in Australia to share their lives and traditional lifestyles with us.”

TOGETHER: Tiani Grosser and Say Ler Yar Paw at Horsham College celebrations.

Town Hall.

UNITED: Kyle Kanindot and Elisa Siao at Diversity Day celebrations at Horsham Town Hall.

Dingoes under threat

The dingo unprotection order has concluded in northwest Victoria due to new research, strong advice and the effectiveness of non-lethal dingo control methods to protect livestock.

Environment minister Steve Dimopoulos said the dingo population in northwest Victoria was under threat of extinction.

“We’re making these changes to protect an important part of the ecosystem,” he said.

A Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, DEECA, spokesperson said the department was continuing to work with Traditional Owners, farmers and private landholders to appropriately balance protection of livestock and dingo conservation.

“Farmers will be supported by a $550,000 investment to reduce pressures associated with vertebrate pest species such as foxes, feral pigs and feral goats, through collaborative, crosstenure management,’ the spokesperson said.

“It will also promote the uptake of non-lethal control methods to manage

predation of livestock in keeping with relevant regulations.”

In Victoria, the dingo is listed as a threatened species under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 and is considered protected wildlife under the Wildlife Act 1975.

To allow the control of dingoes where they threaten livestock, a new Order in Council was made under section 7A of the Wildlife Act 1975, on March 14.

The order declared the dingo as unprotected within a three-kilometre buffer zone on public land in eastern Victoria and on most private land across the state.

The new unprotection order revoked and replaced the order made in October 2023 and will have effect until October 1.

This new Order excludes north-west Victoria due to the risk of extinction of its local dingo population.

The latest data gathered by the Arthur Rylah Institute shows the dingo population in the northwest is at risk of extinction, with as few as 40 dingoes left.

The Victorian government has committed to complete a review by Octo-

ber 1 in light of new scientific research suggesting a significantly greater proportion of Victoria’s wild dogs or dingo-dog hybrids might be dingoes, as well as information about dingo population size.

This review will include the policy and regulatory settings for the management and control of dingoes in Victoria.

Where livestock is being significantly impacted and there are no other control options available, all farmers – including those in northwest Victoria – can apply for an Authority to Control Wildlife permit to use lethal control methods.

The wild dog component of the current Fox and Wild Dog Bounty Program will not continue in the northwest.

There will be no changes to the Fox Bounty in the northwest.

Agriculture minister Ros Spence said the State Government was backing farmers with an investment to protect livestock while protecting a vulnerable dingo population at the same time.

Temporary outages, reduction in coverage

Telstra will upgrade its mobile base station at Galaquil, south of Beulah, adding infrastructure to bring better 4G services and new 5G coverage to the community.

The works will require a series of temporary outages or reduction in mobile coverage:

• Preparatory work will affect Telstra mobile coverage in daylight hours today and tomorrow.

• There will be no 3G and 4G Telstra mobile coverage from the site from 7.30am on Tuesday to 5pm on April 5. The network will be restored over the weekend of April 6 and 7.

• Minor interruptions are expected from April 8 to 10 during daylight hours as call testing and integration of the network is completed.

Telstra mobile customers will receive a text message advising of the upcom-

ing work. Landline services, NBN internet and mobile coverage from other providers will not be affected.

Any calls to triple zero from a Telstra mobile when the site is off-air will automatically be diverted to another working mobile network for connection for emergency services.

READY: East Grampians Health Service Ark Toy and Activity Library president Bo Munro, left, and treasurer Mary Stapleton with Easter treats.

Spreading Easter fun

The East Grampians Health Service Ark Toy and Activity Library’s annual Easter Egg Hunt is on again at Ararat’s Alexandra Gardens tomorrow.

The sixth annual Easter Egg Hunt, which is for babies through to preschool age, will open for registrations at 9.30am, with the egg hunt at 10am. Entry is $5 a child.

The fundraiser for the toy library regularly attracts more than 60 children.

The toy library is open to all families across the region every Wednesday from 10am to 11.30am, with free entry.

People can register for the Easter Egg Hunt by calling Jodie Holwell on 5352 9387 or emailing jodie. holwell@eghs.net.au.

Dimboola hunt

The Dimboola community will host its annual Easter egg hunt on Friday to raise money for the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal.

At the Dimboola Recreation Reserve, children and families alike will be entertained from 9am to noon.

Activities include the egg hunt, raffle, face painting, jumping castle, tiny goats, food and drink. Entry for children is $5 and all proceeds will be donated to the Royal Children’s Hospital. Since 1931, more than $444 million has been raised to deliver the best possible care to patients and their families at the hospital as community groups conduct fundraisers year-round.

NORTHWESTER & SOUTH WEST COAST

47 days Monday 29th July $22,540

“See the itinerary for the many tour highlights”.

COOBER PEDY, AYERS ROCK, ALICE SPRINGS

9 days

Monday 29th July $5980

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

CANADA & ALASKA EXPLORER

25 days Wednesday 18th September $22,885

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

CAPE YORK AND THURSDAY ISLAND

10 days Sunday 22nd September $6390

TASMANIA

LONGREACH, MAGNETIC ISLAND & BARRIER REEF

Paronella Park, Australian Sugar Museum, Green Island, Cairns, Barrier Reef, Daintree River Cruise, Kuranda Train and Sky Rail, Breakfast with the Birds, Port Douglas, Undara Lava Tubes, Gulflander Train Ride, Gulf of Carpentaria Sunset Cruise, Mt Isa, Birdsville, Marree, Lake Eyre, Flinders Ranges, Burra, Renmark. CAIRNS,

12 days Thursday 30th May $6760

Highlights: Bourke, Darling River, Charleville, Cosmos Centre, Blackall Woolscour, Longreach, Stockman’s Hall of Fame, Thomson River Cruise, Charters Towers, Magnetic Island, Paronella Park, Australian Sugar Museum, Green Island, Cairns, Barrier Reef, Daintree River Cruise, Kuranda Train and Sky Rail, Breakfast with the Birds, Port Douglas CAIRNS

& THE GULF COUNTRY INC BIRDSVILLE

16 days Friday 7th June $8930

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

10 days

SPLENDID SINGAPORE

Monday 1st July $7850

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

DARWIN VIA CENTRAL AUSTRALIA

15 days Monday 29th July $8950

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

WEST COAST, KIMBERLEY & SOUTH WEST COAST

35 days

Saturday 10th August $16,680

“See the itinerary for the many tour highlights”.

23 days

WEST COAST & THE KIMBERLEY

Saturday 10th August $12,460

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

12 days

DARWIN TO BROOME & THE KIMBERLEY

Saturday 10th August $7990

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

BROOME TO PERTH INCLUDING TOM PRICE & NINGALOO REEF

14 days

Monday 19th August $8380

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

15 days

PERTH AND SOUTH WEST COAST

Friday 30th August $7110

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

10 days Tuesday 15th October $5440

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

CANBERRA

6 days Sunday 27th October $2940

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

NEW ZEALAND DISCOVERY

17 days Wednesday 6th November $9990

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

SAPPHIRE COAST

9 days Monday 11th November $4490

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

Pilot program a new milestone

Earlier this month Federation TAFE hosted a celebratory morning tea to mark the launch of a new Bachelor of Education Studies pilot program.

Having our first enrolled cohort of 20 students starting delivery of this course in the Wimmera this semester is an important milestone for Federation University as an educational provider, and also for me personally.

According to the Victorian Skills Authority, graduates in the education and training sector will continue to be in demand in the Wimmera and southern Mallee, with close to 200 new workers required by 2025.

Thanks to the support of the Victorian Government, we can now deliver our Bachelor of Education Studies course locally, which will significantly impact our region by bolstering our local teaching workforce.

Many of our students are currently working in our regions’ schools as education support officers or in administrative roles.

Completing this course will take them to the next level of their careers and qualify them as primary or secondary teachers.

Combining face-to-face sessions at our Wimmera campus and regular remote catchup sessions using our ‘connected classrooms’ technology will give our students the flexibility to attend on-campus or online to fit in with their lives and other commitments.

Importantly, this means our students can study and upskill close to home as we will be taking away the barrier of distance to study.

After successfully completing the first year of the course, students will be eligible to transfer to the second year of Federation’s Bachelor of Education, Primary, or Bachelor of Secondary Education – which we hope to eventually offer from the Wimmera campus

COMMENT

– to complete their teaching qualifications. The Bachelor of Education Studies is another way Federation is addressing workforce skills shortages, just as we are doing in other sectors such as nursing, early education and care, community services and trades. Our students are already embedded within the Wimmera community, which means when they complete their studies, they are much more likely to stay in the region and teach in our local schools.

Bringing this project to fruition has been a major focus for me since starting as campus director and I am so excited to add higher education to our growing delivery in the Wimmera.

I’d like to acknowledge the support of the local principal’s network and schools, particularly Horsham College, as lead school in the Wimmera and South West area, on behalf of participating schools, the Victorian Department of Education and Training, and Federation’s own executive leadership team.

We all know how critical the education sector is and through this new offering, Federation hopes to support students to maintain ties to the Wimmera community as they pursue their dreams of becoming teachers of the future.

If you would like to register your interest in enrolling in a future intake of the Bachelor of Education Studies, please contact diracop. ieac@federation.edu.au.

WE CARE: Stawell Patchwork and Quilters Group members donated 45 quilts to people affected by last month’s bushfires at Pomonal.

Quilters pitch in to help community

Stawell Patchwork and Quilters Group members have been working hard to help their community, donating 45 quilts to people affected by last month’s bushfires at Pomonal.

Group member Kerrie Hodder said the donations were a way to show bushfire victims the community cared about them.

“We have a community quilt cupboard and we cleaned it out, plus some members brought quilts from home to donate,” she said.

“The community quilt cupboard is for people who have experienced a life-changing event.

“We can give them a quilt to show we’re thinking of them.

The group meets each Thursday at Grampians Community Health from 9am, with members sometimes staying until 9pm to complete projects.

The quilts were distributed by Grampians Community Health staff to the Pomonal community.

Ms Hodder said the group started years ago when a few friends decided to get together to make quilts.

“We could do it at home, but you’re by yourself. Here you have the company of everyone else,” she said.

“You can do as much or as little as you want.

homes and then the Salvation Army hall, before moving to Grampians Community Health when the Stawell building was opened.

“As our group got bigger, we had to move to bigger premises and Grampians Community Health is perfect for us,” Ms Hodder said.

Up to 30 people attend most weeks.

Grampians Community Health has rooms available for community use in Stawell for minimal cost to cover cleaning and amenities.

If

“It’s nice to help when times are tough.”

“Some do more artistic appliques and others do embroideries to put into quilts.”

The group started meeting in

People can call Grampians Community Health on 5358 7400 for more information.

with Christine Brown Federation University Wimmera campus director

Natimuk show

DAY OUT: Shearing and wool handling competitions, horse events, yard dog trials, Natimuk Brass Band and market stalls were highlights of Natimuk Agriculture Show on Saturday. Pictured are, clockwise from above: Ellysha Shields, with Lleyton and Lenny, riding the teacups; Heidi Cory watches as dog Awesome vaults over the fence during yard dog trials – organisers were pleased after receiving more than 170 dog entries, an increase on last year’s number; Natimuk United netballers, from left, Piper Taylor, Emma Uebergang and Alexandra Taylor help staff the canteen; Sarah Lowe of Polka-Dot Party Face Painting brings some colour to the face of Horsham’s Isabella Zerbst; Horsham’s Audrey Bald; Kirsty Bone inspects a fleece shorn by her brother Brandon during the sheep-shearing competition; and centre, Rachael Martin of Pimpinio on her horse.

Pictures: COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Celebration of all things dackel

Anannual festival of all things dachshund will once again welcome people from across Australia to Edenhope.

Edenhope Day of the Dackel on April 7 will include dachshund races, entertainment, a small dog show and market stalls.

A highlight of the day is the Dackel Dash, a grand final race after heats have been run.

On average the event sees about 100 dachshunds attend, and about 300 people.

Other friendly dogs are also welcome at the event.

The event started from humble beginnings in 2019 when a small group of dachshund enthusiasts gathered at Edenhope’s dachshund museum for a meet and greet, sausage sizzle, followed by a walk down to Lake Wallace jetty and through the town.

It has since grown and is now at Henley Park on the banks of Lake Wallace.

This year, the organisers are introducing a special treat for Border Collie enthusiasts –the Border Collie Sprint.

There is also a small breed open race for non-dachshunds, catering to all dogs less

than 30 centimetres at the shoulder. While there will be hot takeaway food and coffee available throughout the day, owners are encouraged to pack water and a bowl for their pets and bring along a chair.

Organiser Diana Lee Saville said the event sees return visitors every year booking the same spots at the caravan park.

“These visitors come from afar and meet up with new friends they made at a previous Day of the Dackel,” she said.

“It’s so awesome to see. Most people who come have never been to Edenhope, let alone heard of it.”

Organisers also welcome people arriving on April 6 to join a pyjama party and Dackel Dinner at Henley Park’s barbecue shelter from 6pm.

The festivities kick off at 9am and conclude about 2pm. The official program starts at 10.15am with the dog show featuring the smartest on parade, golden oldies, and fancy dress.

People can find more details and registration forms at dayofthedackel.com.au or by calling Diana Lee Saville 0432 572 449.

Drinking water for Ultima

Ultima residents and the surrounding community are invited to celebrate the town’s new, fully-treated drinking water supply on

Friday, April 12.

The celebration, from 11.30am at Ultima’s Lions Park in Dillon Street, will include GWMWater staff available to talk to customers about water supply as well as a light lunch.

Supplying the town with drinking water

JOIN US AT HARVEST CHURCH

THIS EASTER WEEKEND!

GOOD FRIDAY

MARCH 29 - 10:00AM (HORSHAM ONLY)

RESURRECTION SUNDAY

MARCH 31 - 10:30AM

LOCATIONS

17 FLORENCE STREET, HORSHAM

6 CAMPBELL STREET,

piped from the Swan Hill Water Treatment Plant means residents no longer need to rely on rainwater tanks or packaged water for drinking and food preparation.

Construction of the 29-kilometre pipeline to provide Ultima with drinking water was completed in February 2023. The project also included construction of two clear water storage tanks, two new pump stations and a new chlorinator.

RECOGNITION:

Willaura Modern gallery and Willaura Historical Society were awarded the Small Organisation History Award for their Precious Objects exhibition as part of the Public Record Office Victoria’s Community History Awards.

Pictured is project co-ordinator Lois Reynolds and Royal Historical Society of Victoria president Richard Broome.

State award for Willaura exhibition

The Willaura Modern gallery and Willaura Historical Society earned statewide recognition last month when a joint exhibition at the gallery received Public Record Office Victoria’s, PROV, Small Organisation History Project Award.

The award was presented as part of the annual PROV Community History Awards, which celebrate people involved in community history projects.

Entitled Precious Objects: Shared Memories of our Collective Past, the exhibition at Willaura Modern was created by Willaura Historical Society and

presented 50 objects associated with the town’s past.

Judges said the display ‘conveyed the spirit of Victorian community history’.

The gallery and historical society will share a $1500 prize associated with the award.

On its Facebook page, Willaura Modern thanked people for supporting the project.

“We are grateful to our local community members who shared their precious objects and stories for this exhibition, helping us all to better understand the story of our district and the rich heritage we have around us,” the

post read. “This award recognises your effort and Willaura Modern would like to thank you all for your generous contribution.”

PROV director and keeper of public records Justine Heazlewood said all award winners were of outstanding quality.

“This year’s winners demonstrate the many varied and contemporary ways the history of Victoria can be told and shared to reach a wider audience,” she said.

More information about the awards is available at prov.vic. gov.au/winners-2023.

Saturday, March 30, 2024

• Friday, April 29, noon to 6pm

• Saturday, April 30, 6.30am onwards

Online entries available from March 23 @ www.jeparitanglersclub.com

Entry Cost: Seniors – 16 & Over $30

Juniors – 15 & Under $20 – free showbag for the first 150 children to register Bank fishing only

For more info visit www.jeparitanglersclub.com or our Facebook page

•

• 1st

•

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Positive role models

Generally speaking, we Australians are pretty financially savvy, that is, we understand the how and why of effectively managing our money.

Unfortunately, that does not mean we are actually putting that know-how into practise and making astute financial decisions.

Australian Bureau of Statistics, ABS, revealed the average Australian household debt had risen by 7.3 percent, more than $260,000 in the 2021-22 financial year.

As of July 2023, Australians were paying $18.4 billion in credit card interest every year.

As parents, we are role models, integral to shaping our children’s values and beliefs. Like little sponges, they absorb our behavioural patterns, pick up on signals and mimic our actions.

For us to replace bad money habits with good ones might be a big ask, particularly as they have evolved over the course of our lives. But the trouble is, kids are a cluey bunch, eager to learn from us, and not surprisingly, our money habits are among many characteristics we unintentionally pass onto them.

Of course, we all want the best for our children. But in this busy world, we are pulled in so many directions at once that sometimes it is all we can do to juggle our daily work, family, school and social lives.

Who has time to consider the inadvertent messages we could be giving out?

Yet, when it comes to ensuring our children are equipped to build themselves a secure financial future, it’s worth the effort, right?

FINANCE focus

with Robert Goudie CFP GradDipFP Consortium Private Wealth

The points below show a list of good and bad money habits that are commonly passed onto children.

• Poor money habit: Impulse buying

We regularly make spur-of-the-moment purchases. Additionally, we tend to indulge our kids – we want them to be happy. Impulsive or indulgent behaviour can inadvertently foster in children an attitude of instant gratification, normalising impulse buying.

• Good money habit: Lead by example

As a family, we discuss the difference between needs and wants. We encourage our kids to wait for things they want, and suggest delaying a purchase can lead to smarter choices and savings.

• Poor money habit: Not budgeting

We do not have a household budget, preferring to manage our money as it comes in. Not budgeting can engender a culture of living pay-to-pay and children can grow up not understanding the importance of tracking spending and living within their means.

• Good money habit: Family budget

We involve our children in creating and monitoring our household budget. We discuss decisions about allocating money for different purposes so that when our kids receive pocket money or gift money, they can practise budgeting by setting amounts aside for saving, spending, etc.

• Poor money habit: Credit card misuse

We rarely use cash; using a card is fast and convenient. Although oc-

casionally we max the card out, we make sure we pay off as much as we can every month. Cards, while useful, can cause children to perceive them as a source of unlimited money.

• Good money habit: No free money

We have taught our children how to read our card statements. They know how to check purchases against receipts and understand how interest adds to the card balance.

• Poor money habit: Not saving We have never set up a structured savings plan so have little-to-no savings. We’d like to take a holiday or have a nestegg for emergencies, but there never seems to be any money left over at the end of the pay cycle. Children seeing parents struggling to save might not learn the value of saving or setting goals.

• Good money habit: Set goals, save We stick to our budget and always try to allocate a portion of income towards savings, and encourage our kids to do the same.

As parents we have a limited opportunity to equip our children with tools such as knowledge, confidence and forward planning skills – before they decide they know more than us.

So, by modelling good financial behaviour ourselves, we can instil the habits that will set our children up for a life of financial freedom.

I do not know about you, but if I can achieve that, I will know that I have done what I can to enable the next generation to succeed and thrive.

What a legacy.

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

YEARS OF SERVICE: West Wimmera Health Service chief executive Ritchie Dodds presents staff member Tracey Jarred with recognition of her 40 years of service to the organisation. Seventy-nine West Wimmera Health Service employees were recognised for their years of service at a recent awards ceremony. The awards were a celebration of dedication and loyalty, recognising years of service in five-year increments. Mr Dodds said some employees spent a large part of their lives dedicated to their work within the organisation. “This occasion is a momentous one, offering time for both reflection and celebration,” he said. “And for our service to be the vehicle to enable growth and commitment, it’s a privilege to be able to honour that. I thank them again for their commitment to the service, helping us to continue to provide excellent care and health support to people of all ages across our communities.”

‘Epic’ hands-on challenge

More than 230 Wimmera primary students experienced a day of science and engineering at Wimmera Events Centre last week.

Rotary Club of Horsham East in partnership with Newcastle University hosted the Wimmera Science and Engineering Challenge.

Rotary Club of Horsham East’s Tom Gallagher said the organisations had worked together since 2000.

“The challenge is an outreach STEM – science, technology, engineering, maths – program for students outside major cities,” he said.

“On Tuesday we had year five and six students from Dimboola, Horsham Primary School 298 and Rasmussen, Horsham West

Primary School, Ss Michael and John’s Primary School, Horsham Holy Trinity Lutheran College and two combined teams of Goroke and Kaniva and Nhill College and St Patrick’s Nhill.

“It was an epic day.

“On Wednesday we had year 10s from Kaniva, Goroke and Holy Trinity Lutheran College.

“Many students were at vocational studies so we have made changes for next year and the secondary students will attend on the Tuesday.”

Mr Gallagher said it was a hands-on experience.

He said students built bridges and aeroplanes with minimal materials and completed activities based on Morse code, electricity, buildings withstanding earthquakes and sustainable fishing.

ALL SMILES: Holy Trinity Lutheran College students, from left, Camille Arthur, Ella Bailey, Jack Arnell and Vincent Brennan.

PREPARED: Holy Trinity Lutheran College students, from left, Lola Kerr, Allira Coller and Mahli Harris.

THUMBS UP: Ss Michael and John’s Primary School’s Cruz Sudholz, Madden Wright, Xavier Pellegrino and Charlie Curran.

TESTING: Horsham Primary School students, from left, James Mackereth, Jaxon Luy and Harry Bolwell.

A positive outlook

OBY ABBY WALTER

rganisers of the fourth Wimmera Autumn Merino Sheep Show at Maydale Pavilion are hailing the event a success.

Horsham Agricultural Society’s chief fleece steward Ian Walter said about 140 stud sheep were on show at the event.

“The comments were favourable. We had 40 entries in the fleece section of the show,” he said.

“We had eight entrants in the junior judging competition.

“This is the fourth Wimmera Autumn Merino Sheep Show hosted in Horsham and it was another successful event.”

Robert Harding of Glendonald Stud, Nhill, won the Tom Harmsworth perpetual trophy for supreme fleece of show and most valuable ram fleece.

Alan and Judy Hutchinson won the Austin Eagle champion commercial fleece of show, most valuable commercial fleece, champion weaner fleece and the aggregate.

Melrose Merino Stud won most valuable ewe fleece.

John Dalla of Orrie Cowie Merino Stud, Eyre Peninsula, won the supreme sheep of show with his ram.

Horsham Agricultural Society secretary Andrea Cross said it was lovely to see young people involved in the event.

“In our junior judging each year we see young people come through and some return in the competition, as Ava Harris won again this year, but also we see them potentially judging in future years,” she said.

“The junior judging is a growing element of the event, which is encouraging to see.

“We also had a contingent from Longerenong College as stewards and participants and it’s great we can keep the relationship with our local agriculture college going.”

Mrs Cross said the enthusiasm from young people at the show was like a breath of fresh air.

“It’s encouraging to see there are some who are keen to join the Hor-

sham Agricultural Society and we’re now looking at a potential new sheep section in the September show,” she said.

“I have come away from this event feeling hopeful for the future in terms of the livestock industry at show level in our community.

“We start setting up a week before the show and there’s hard work put in by our volunteers, ably led by our chief fleece steward Ian Walter who does an enormous job. We need to see continued support from our local woolgrowers.”

Mrs Cross said the event was a social occasion, as well as a challenge for woolgrowers to pick their best sheep and best fleeces.

“The show comes with prestige and self-development for woolgrowers,” she said.

Danni Wilson of Tamaleuca Merino and Poll Merino Stud in Ouyen is a key organiser of the event.

She said the Wimmera Autumn Merino Sheep Show was a success and sheep numbers were up, with each stud bringing a few more sheep than

in 2023. “We had 24 sheep studs and lots of fleeces on show,” she said.

“Quality was good – it’s the first event in a series of shows, so it’s good for breeders to bring out the sheep for their first outing.

“We enjoy the Horsham facilities, it has good pens, beautiful buildings and is a good location for a show.”

SUPREME: John Dalla of Orrie Cowie Merino Stud, Eyre Peninsula, right, and Fabstock’s Steve Gates with the supreme sheep of show.

WINNER: Robert Harding of Glendonald Stud, Nhill, with his champion fleece.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Big-ticket

BY ABBY WALTER

with big ticket items at the Wimmera Machinery Field Days this year was evidence supply and demand of machinery is almost back to balance after years of delays.

Emmetts Horsham sales representative James Gardner said supply of machinery was definitely improving.

He said the Emmetts site at the field days did not have many new machines, but John Deere was due to release more to Australia.

“In the next 12 months I expect we’ll see more machinery in yards at dealerships,” Mr Gardner said.

“Manufacturers are catching up now.”

Mr Gardner said the instant tax write-off scheme and low-interest rates pushed the increased demand in recent years.

“Now we have higher interest rates and no write-off, so farmers are holding onto their pennies a bit more,” he said.

“Things are still selling, most farmers still had a good year, but it’s not like it was.”

Mr Gardner said speaking to farmers he understood they had a reasonable year in the region, and while there were better yields in the northern areas, no one was upset by the season.

“There’s still money around. We had

a real uptake in the past two years for new machinery and now we expect we’re in a slow spot for the next couple of years,” he said.

“Also, inputs are costing more at the moment and with land value what it is, which means a lot of interest, some people are putting money into land, which possibly offsets what they spend on machines.”

Goldacres’ marketing manager Stephen Richards said with machinery made in Australia, the supply of stock continued to get better.

“In the past three years we have been order takers more than anything and haven’t been selling as much because it’s been so busy,” he said.

“In 2020 it was dry, particularly in NSW, and then it started raining and

it didn’t stop, so orders kept rolling in throughout COVID and it’s been some of the best years we’ve had.”

Mr Richards said the business had a slow start to the year, but was building momentum now.

“We built a lot of orders in the leadup to Christmas to start the year fresh and it probably took about a month for it to fire up again, but we’re seeing

a lot more orders now,” he said. “It’s shaping up to be quite a good year, but you never really know – we haven’t had rain for about a month, but it will rain again and weeds will grow.”

Mr Richards said the field days were a chance to showcase the big range of products Goldacres had to offer, particularly regarding spraying.

“We showed the new G4 series two, our latest edition with a new engine, new transmission, all the updates and green-on-green camera technology to detect weeds in crop,” he said.

TractionAg sales team member Steve Graetz said access to machinery had improved greatly in comparison to recent years.

“While there was greater demand, it has steadied because of the tax incentive and with interest rates moving,” he said.

Mr Graetz said a tremendous amount of equipment was upgraded and improved in the same period of time.

“It’s amazing how much can change in two to three years,” he said.

“On the field days site, we had new technology on show with our fullyautonomous Fendt with its cameras and emergency stop functions – you can set it and it goes.

“Anything we had on-site in terms of spreaders was already sold – everything has its season and people’s minds are on spreading and cropping at the moment.”

UNDERSTANDING: Emmetts Horsham sales representative James Gardner enjoyed time chatting with farmers at the Wimmera Machinery Field Days earlier this month. Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

INFORMED: From left, Josie Glowrey, Jake Lockhart and Dave Lockhart chat with Stephen Richards of Goldacres at the Wimmera Machinery Field Days.

The all new Fendt Rogator 900 series with WEED-IT designed and installed

Australia has impressed farmers across the Wimmera. With its debut and first

demonstration at the recent Traction Ag Drive Day, and then displays at WMFD, Lucindale Field Days and a special demonstration on-farm at Rupanyup, Traction Ag is showcasing what this unit is capable of and how much you can save by using Weed-it! With Fendt Rogator fitted with WEED-IT, Two is better than one. Unlock Spot and Blanket PWM Spraying with WEED-IT.

WEED-IT In The Wimmera Features

Rometron Australia was established with a mission of bringing WEED-IT sensors to farmers fitted on the best boom sprays for our unique farming landscapes. Now proudly partnering with Traction Ag bringing retrofit options to Wimmera farmers.

25cm Nozzle Spacing

Tall weeds head to foot coverage

Reduced stubble shading

Twice the detection & twice the savings of 50cm spacing

Automatic Background Calibration & Exceptional Monitoring

Peace of mind operation

User friendly

Simple to operate

ISOBUS Compatability

Interface with multiple controllers

Automatic boom section control

Weed mapping capabilties

Prescription / coverage maps upload and application

Talk to the sales team at Traction AG to see what

Rometron could do for your farming program

PWM

Constant rate with varying speed

Corner compensation

Light Weight

Easyfitout

Less weight on boom 1 sensor per metre

750 g per metre

Smart Power Management

PSU conversion 12v - 48v 4 times less current

Lighter wiring

Reduced power loss

Current draw on tractor approx. 2.2 amp/m

Positive seasonal out look

Anewly-released Rabobank research report revealed Australia’s grain growers are looking at improved prospects in the season ahead, with 2024-25 gross margins set to increase on the back of lower cost of production.

The agribusiness bank says with the cost of fertiliser and agrochemicals potentially down as much as 20 per cent, while grain prices are forecast to ease just six per cent on average, the upcoming Australian winter crop is shaping up to have a much better outlook than the previous season.

The report, Australia’s winter crop gross margins, forecasts 2024-25 average gross margins for wheat, barley and canola will still lag on seven-year averages.

The report forecasts average Australian wheat gross margins to come in about 34 per cent, barley at 33 per cent and canola at 26 per cent.

The margins compare with averages for the period of 43 per cent, 41 per cent and 45 per cent respectively, according to the bank’s modelling.

Report author, RaboResearch grain and oilseeds analyst Vitor Pistoia said gross margins could also be understood as a business’s capacity to generate cash.

He said, in that sense, 2024-25 should see a rebuild close to historical levels as the previous season was impacted by substantial grain and

oilseed price reductions and relatively elevated farm input prices.

“The seeding period for the 2024-25 season is about to start and growers are making the final decisions on what to plant and how to optimise crop rotation,” he said.

“The commodity price forecast as well as the expected cost of farm inputs are considerably different from the previous seasons, which has altered the profitability scenario for the upcoming winter cropping season.”

Mr Pistoia said the improved outlook remained weather dependent.

Wheat ‘breadwinner’

The report says wheat is set to be Australia’s ‘breadwinner’ for the season with a projected gross margin of $281 a hectare compared with an average of $158 a hectare last season.

It also shows prices were set to be compensated by a predicted larger reduction in the variable costs of fertiliser and agrochemicals.

“The $281 a hectare gross margin forecast situates wheat as potentially the most profitable of the three major crops for 2024, together with barley,” Mr Pistoia said.

“Also, due to the lowest variable cost, wheat might expand its area over other crops, especially canola.”

Rabobank predicts about 12 million hectares of wheat will be planted.

Mr Pistoia said wheat was the only crop to have achieved above-average

gross margins in four of the past seven seasons.

“In the 2023-24 season, wheat was cropped on 12.5 million hectares or 55 per cent of the winter crop area,” he said.

“Its total revenue was only exceeded by beef, and Australia is the fifth largest exporter of wheat globally.”

The bank estimates malting barley margins to come in at about $282 a hectare up from an average of $225 a hectare in 2023-24.

“In combination with the benefits of barley at paddock level, such as weed control and optimising fieldwork schedules, this sees barley as a strong and reliable crop choice for Australian farmers,” Mr Pistoia said.

Rabobank expects the 2024-25 Australian planted barley area to remain greater than four million hectares.

Mr Pistoia said China’s import tariff on barley scrapped in August impacted grower margins substantially.

“Australian farmers’ response came in the form of area reduction – in this period, area planted to barley was reduced by roughly 1.3 million hectares or a 25 percent reduction,” he said.

The bank forecasts average Australian gross margins for canola about $251 a hectare in 2024-25 up from last season’s average $158 a hectare gross margin.

Mr Pistoia said an area of about three million hectares was expected for the 2024-25 season.

SHARING KNOWLEDGE: Rabobank’s Vitor Pistoia, with Jason Robinson, of Warracknabeal at the Rabobank Truck during the Wimmera Machinery Field Days.

Network building opportunity

Rabobank’s Horsham team hosted clients and guests at the RaboTruck at the 2024 Wimmera Machinery Field Days.

The RaboTruck is a multipurpose vehicle designed for sharing knowledge, building networks and supporting community.

Rabobank agricultural analyst Vitor Pistoia spoke with visitors about the outlook for Australian agricultural

commodities. Bethan Wearmouth, from Rabobank’s fraud detection and response team, shared knowledge on cybercrime scams and fraud risk.

The Horsham branch of Riding for the Disabled, led by Jan Croser, served coffee from the RaboTruck during the field days to raise awareness and funds for the work undertaken by the association.

A IMI Lentil

Highest yielding broadly adapted IMI tolerant lentil

What Is The Best Wheat Variety?

Simply put, there is no ‘best wheat variety’ available to all farmers. However, selecting a wheat variety for your farm involves considering various factors beyond just maximising yield. While yield is undoubtedly crucial, other considerations that can impact your farm’s bottom line both now and into the future.

In recent years, breeding and variety choices have often prioritized maximising yield, but there are other factors to consider. A relevant issue is disease resistance, particularly over the past few seasons with bad rust outbreaks.

What if you’re a mixed farmer, you might need a variety that can handle early grazing to fill the winter feed gap. Alternatively, if your area frequently experiences wet conditions, will your paddocks

be trafficable to ensure timely fungicide application?. What if you are targeting a certain grade of wheat, for example Hard or APW grades.

Additionally, herbicide tolerance, coleoptile length for deep sowing, or season length to avoid frost might also be critical factors in your decision-making process.

With the abundance of wheat varieties available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. It’s essential to consider these traits and how they relate to your farming operation.

While yield remains a vital consideration, it’s important to recognize that yield isn’t isolated from other factors. It’s part of an integrated system influenced by various considerations, and effective management practices are key to maximizing the

potential of any chosen variety.

Ultimately, the best wheat variety for your farm is the one that aligns with your specific requirements and management practices. While yield potential is significant, a variety that is well-suited to your situation will ultimately outperform one with higher yield potential that doesn’t meet your farm’s needs.

As always, feel free to contact Jack or Charlie anytime!

One of the best things I’ve done in my life is to move to the country.

I’ve been living in northeast Victoria for a decade. Luckily, I bought into the property market at just the right time.

In fact, I think we might be going through a golden era of rural land values.

According to ABARES, broadacre land values have increased by 130 percent in the past decade.

Talking real estate is a most popular pastime, so last week on Country Today I spoke to one of the big shots of rural property, Danny Thomas of real estate firm LAWD. He agrees with me – it just might be a golden era.

“It’s been the most extraordinary time,” he said. “This is reminiscent of something you would have seen many decades ago during the 1950s wool boom.”

For those, like me, who weren’t around to witness it, Australian merino wool was selling for a pound – as was the currency then – for a pound of wool.

Legend has it that a Western District wool grower made some modifications to his Rolls Royce and turned it into a farm ute.

Go back 25 years and the average broadacre price for land was about $1000 a hectare. It’s now nearly 10 times that.

King of the castle is cropping country and leading the pack in investing in farming are the institutional investors.

“It’s fascinating,” Mr Thomas said.

“We’re seeing the market institutionalise at a rapid rate… Those institutions have a relatively lower financial hurdle in terms of the money they achieve on a cash basis and

Country Today

with Libby Price

a total return over a very long investment horizon, so that’s materially changed the market.

“The other thing we’ve seen is a significant volume of institutional money come into the water market… That’s become a very attractive asset to invest in from people all over the world.

“There’s a lot more liquidity in rural lending than there used to be. And so you see considerably more debt to facilitate growth. There’s ability to finance inventory, which provides working capital efficiency, so there’s more money available today for livestock finance, crop finance and the like, and all of that contributes to the ability for farmers to grow their business quicker and get more scale and stay ahead of the cost price squeeze.”

Just as happened with livestock prices falling with the talk of an El Niño weather pattern, land values dropped late last year, some areas more than others.

“There are pockets in western Victoria where I think the adjustment might be more significant,” Mr Thomas said.

The final word from Mr Thomas: “If you’re thinking of selling, obviously consult with your local agent, and I’d be tempted to wait until the second half of the year.”

Steady stream through showcase

buy things, but now the dynamics have changed.”

Goldacres’ marketing manager

The

Emmett’s

James Gardner said Wednesday was the biggest day for crowds.

“People came to our site to say hello, so while there weren’t as many buyers, we now have a few leads and quotes to do,” he said.

“The field days are about relationships. It’s changing – people used to come with trailers and

Stephen Richards said the weather affected when people visited this year, with three days of 30 degrees or higher.

“The first day was good in the morning but it was hot in the afternoon. Wednesday was the better day and I reckon the weather had a lot to do with that, and then Thursday was consistent,” he said.

“Inquiries were as we’d expected.

“It’s a chance for customers to talk to us directly rather than talking to a dealer.”

Member of the TractionAg sales

team Steve Graetz said there was a steady flow of people through the gates and across the sites.

“It was our biggest site to date,” he said.

“We had all the big stuff such as our self-propelled sprayers – we have three large ones which have only hit the country in the past few months.

“We also had our new autonomous tractor on site and a drone that can spray paddocks.”

Mr Graetz said inquiries at the field days were genuine.

“This is the only chance for people to go from one dealer to another in the same place in one day, so that’s a positive for them,” he said.

Innovation awarded at field days

BY ABBY WALTER

Itwas tough competition for site award judges at the Wimmera Machinery Field Days this year.

Fossey’s Distillery won best Country Lifestyle site, Agrimac won best agriculture machinery outdoor site, Before You Dig Australia and Energy

Safe Victoria won best Moore Exhibition Centre site, Horsham Lawnmower Centre won best general outdoor site, John Shearer won machine of the year with the MK 4 Seeder bar, and SheerSpeed won agriculture business innovation of the year for its Woolmaster handpiece and counter.

SheerSpeed owner Steve Hein won the award in his first Wimmera field days.

“For the past 110 years shearers had to pull a cord, but now all you do is press a button and away the handpiece goes,” he said.

“It’s connected to a counter to tell you how many sheep you have shorn.

“It works on a radio wave so it’s only on-off, same as a TV remote.

“The transmitter talks to a receiver, which talks to the overhead motor.”

Mr Hein said it was safer and more efficient.

“If you have someone, for example, doing a 150 run and there’s 150 on the counter, it’s 150 you don’t have to count out,” he said.

“With crutching, a lot do 600 a day, so, in an eight-hour day you have

to pull the cord 1200 times for four seconds. It amounts to 40 minutes and when you take into account time to push the button, it’s about an extra 40 a day.

“If it falls over, nothing will get broken. If it gets kicked out of your hand you can still pull the cord to stop and start it.

“You’ve also always got control of the sheep with one arm, whereas before to pull the cord you had to let go of the sheep.

“If you get out of position or anything goes wrong, you can switch it off straight away.

“When I was learning to sheer I cut into my finger and hand down to the bone, which put me out of action for the rest of the year, but if I had the cordless it wouldn’t have happened.

“I got out of position, I couldn’t reach the cord so I tried to keep shearing and the handpiece went into my hand. I’ve still got the scar – it happened 40 years ago.”

Mr Hein said as a retired shearer and after his son began managing his farm, he had a lot of time to think.

“I sat in my armchair in 2017 and came up with all these ideas within three months,” he said.

“A lot of this was in my mind anyway because I used to be a shearer, but I did nothing because I had a young family, I didn’t have the money and I didn’t have the patience.

“Another invention, magnetic grinding papers, took about five years to get them right because I’m pretty fussy, so they’re made to my standard and they had to be good.”

Mr Hein said previously grinding papers to make combs and cutters sharp had to be glued to discs, but he had created magnetic papers to stick to steel discs.

“You put the magnetic papers on in 30 seconds, whereas normally to glue a paper on it takes about two hours of messing around,” he said.

“With its safety washer, you can grind right up to it without fear of hitting the nut and the comb flying in your face and you utilise the full width of your paper, which means you’re going to get a good cut on your comb

and cutter. They’re factory made so the glue is rock hard, and it won’t get bubbles or come off – it’s better than the glue for other papers because we don’t have to worry about getting it off the disc when it’s time to put a new paper on.

“It’s centrifugal force, the nut and magnetism that keeps them on the disc.”

Broad range

Fossey’s Distillery owner Eddie Timmis said 2024 was the first time the business had a stall at the Wimmera Machinery Field Days.

“We have enjoyed it, and we will be coming back again,” she said.

“We were happy to win the award – we were meeting people, and we were set up on the corner so it was a great spot. The field days have a great set-up.”

Agrimac sales manager Horsham Justin Beugelaar said the award was a reward for the staff’s effort.

“Last year everything we displayed belonged to customers already, so our stock is slowly catching up and we were happy with everything on our full site,” he said.

“Crowds were steady, which was good, and we had good conversations.

“The field days gives us the ability to show current and new customers the broad range and it’s great to have everything here.”

BROUGHT TO FRUITION: SheerSpeed owner Steve Hein, with his daughter Laura Barrie, won innovation of the year for his Woolmaster handpiecce and counter. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Sheep flock

downward trend

fter three years of consecutive growth, the Australian sheep flock is set to decrease by 2.9 per cent to 76.5 million in 2024, the latest sheep industry projections from Meat and Livestock Australia, MLA, shows.

During the 2020-2022 rebuild phase, producer focus on productivity and genetics led to impressive marking rates across the sheep flock.

However, the shift from beneficial weather conditions to average conditions in 2023 led to an elevated turnoff of unproductive breeding stock, resulting in a 46.7 per cent lift in sheep slaughter.

MLA market information manager Stephen Bignell said as sheep turnoff would mostly be limited to older, unproductive ewes, this year’s lamb cohort was expected to remain solid, but slightly smaller, than previous years.

“The current resilience of the sheep flock means that high lamb slaughter will have a less intense impact on the national flock size than in previous maintenance periods,” he said.

“This means there will be a decrease in overall flock numbers, but not as dramatic as in comparative years.

“After 2024, the flock is expected to stabilise and remain above the 10-year average.”

Slaughter and production are projected to peak in 2024, causing a record supply of Australian sheep meat into the global market.

Australia produced the most lamb on record in 2023, with 599,461 tonnes of lamb being produced, 11.6 per cent more than in 2022, which was another record year.

Mr Bignell said economic resilience in the United States and emerging markets would drive demand for lamb, while the outlook for consumer demand in China remained uncertain.

“Regardless, a shortage of competitor proteins will encourage imports of sheep meat in high protein consumption markets,” he said.

It is projected lamb production will reach 621,000 tonnes in 2024, a nine per cent or 54,000-tonne increase compared with 2023.

If this eventuates, it will be 21.3 per cent or 109,359 tonnes more than the 10-year average.

Next year, the lamb production forecast is set to ease to 587,000 tonnes and then rise in 2026 by 19,000 tonnes to 606,000 tonnes due to improved carcase weights.

Mutton production will be the largest since 2006, set to produce 254,000 tonnes in 2024 up by 3.14 per cent on 2023 volumes.

Production will remain elevated in 2024 due to a small lift to slaughter.

In 2025, fewer breeding ewes will be turned off. The forecasts for 2025 and 2026 will reach 229,000 and 207,000 tonnes respectively, as the industry moves towards a transitional period where production will stabilise as the industry enters an average season.

COMMITMENT:

Birchip Cropping Group chief executive Fiona Best, centre, recognises the five years of service from Brooke Bennett, left, and 10 years of service from Kelly Angel at the organisation’s trials review day.

Food for thought at trial day

Understanding climate indicators was a key message from Birchip Cropping Group’s climate expert Kate Finger at the organisation’s trials review day.

The senior researcher explained to more than 170 farmers and advisers last month an El Niño, as happened last year, did not always equal drought.

“It is important farmers understand that while there is increased risk, it does not mean it will eventuate,” she said.

“We want farmers to be aware of the increased likelihood to capitalise on opportunities and have a plan.”

Dr Yolanda Plowman hosted a discussion regarding biostimu-

lants. Dr Plowman urged farmers and advisers to be mindful of biostimulants due to lack of regulation, claims versus evidence questions, lack of independent research, and research that showed some products might introduce harmful microbes into paddocks.

“Make sure the products you wish to use are backed by good science, and remember, it is an industry worth billions of dollars which is currently unregulated in Australia,” she said.

Dr Michael Nash spoke about snail and slug management as growers grapple with a sharp increase in numbers and subsequent damage caused by slugs,

and contamination due to snails. Chief executive Fiona Best recognised the service of Brooke Bennett and Kelly Angel for five and 10 years, respectively, to the organisation. Other topics included farmer and adviser experiences, protein mapping, Birchip Cropping Group research, grid sampling at a paddock scale, silicon in wheat and lentils, long coleoptile for moisture management, crop disease research, insects in harvest weed seed control systems, vetch for risk mitigation in dry times, pulse update, Septoria and cereal disease update, and latest cereal varieties.

Crop advances

The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, CSIRO, has achieved a breakthrough in breeding disease-resistant crops.

CSIRO chief research scientist Peter Dodds is co-lead of a project using new technology that will impact future pathogen-resistant crop development.

Dr Dodds said the main focus of the project was wheat and rust disease.

“What we’ve found is a new way to identify how plant diseases can respond and escape immunity that’s bred into plant varieties,” he said.

“This is something that has been a real challenge for plant breeding and crop growing for a long time.

“Plant pathogens evolve quickly and acquire new immunity at a rapid rate.”

Dr Dodds said the technology was based on advanced techniques and used complicated machines.

“Essentially what we’re doing is we’re taking a leaf from wheat, pulling out all the cells individually, putting them in a test tube and then we take

all of the genes from the rust we’re interested in, and we throw them into those cells,” he said.

“We look for a response that is specific to particular resistant varieties or particular rust strains. That’s all done, not under a microscope, but with some quite complicated machinery.”

Large scale

Dr Dodds said the project was a huge change in combating crop diseases.

“Everything previously was always done on a one-at-atime basis, so there was no way to do this at scale,” he said.

“But here we can take all the genomes of a pathogen and screen them all at once and immediately find the things we are looking for.

“It’s a huge advance in the scale and speed at which we can do things.

“We think the most immediate application is that we can improve the way we detect and monitor these pathogens, so we know what strains are around and what varieties they’re likely to cause disease on.

“Farmers will have that in-

formation available and be able to make better decisions about what varieties they grow and what control measures they need to put in place if there is disease around.”

Dr Dodds said the technology would apply to different crops and many diseases.

“Our focus has been on wheat and rust diseases because wheat is the biggest crop in Australia and rust is one of the most important diseases, but there are many other important crops and important diseases of those crops, too,” he said.

“I think the techniques we have developed in wheat rust are going to be widely applicable to other diseases.

“The breeding process is not a rapid one and it takes a while to bring new varieties to market, but this accelerates the ability to bring in important and effective resistance and also screen which sources of resistance are going to be most durable.

“It can go straight into crops that are in breeding lines at the moment and help to prioritise which are the best lines to try and bring forward.”

STORIES SHARED:

Shelley Green, of Ararat, and Robyn Lardner, of Horsham, presented their ‘Life and Times’ stories at the Women on Farms Gathering at Ararat earlier this month.

Women on Farms Gathering

About 80 women from across the state and interstate attended the 34th annual Women on Farms Gathering at Ararat on March 15 to 17. Event organiser Christine Rippon, who has been involved with the gatherings for more than two decades, expressed satisfaction at the turnout.

Attendees also provided glowing feedback on the event’s success.

“Listening to local presenters deliver their ‘Life and Times’ stories was fantastic, and in such a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere really made the event for all who attended,” Ms Rippon said.

Other guest speakers included Tatyoon filmmaker Leila McDougall, former Great Western egg farmer Shelley Green, Nancy Panter who owns wine label SubRosa, and Ararat deputy

mayor Jo Armstrong, who shared their experiences of life on the land.

“The Women on Farms Gathering in Ararat stands as a testament to the resilience, camaraderie, and spirit of rural women, leaving a lasting impact on both attendees and the host community,” Cr Armstrong said.

The three-day event at Ararat RSL offered participants the opportunity to explore cafes, tourist attractions, and a visit to JWard.

With the majority of attendees from outside the region, Ararat’s accommodation, hospitality, tourism and retail sectors all experienced boosts, with many participants indicating a likelihood of return visits to the region.

In support for fire-affected communities, the event raised $2000 to show its commitment to the broader rural community.

Making inroads

GWM Australia sales on track, growing model mix to further expand importer’s growth

GWM Australia and New Zealand’s progress in the region is on track, with sales across existing and future segments meeting targets set by the importer.

Managing director Charles Zhao, speaking at the launch of the Tank 500 in Melbourne last week, said the numbers achieved by GWM’s existing range were encouraging, and the introduction of new models into untapped segments – and at a higher price position – would continue to raise the profile of the marque.

“In the past three years we have seen steady year-on-year increases in volume,” he said.

“Every year we have seen a more than 30 percent increase in the number of sales achieved and last year, including New Zealand, we sold about 39,000 units.

“We have two types of targets. One

is the ‘must achieve’ target, and the other is the ‘challenge target’ – or a number that is expected from our head office in China.

“We have achieved our ‘must achieve’ numbers, but the ‘challenge target’ is a number where we have fallen a little short.”

Mr Zhao would not comment on the numbers related to the ‘challenge target’ set by the home office, but did say he was encouraged by the shift in the brand’s perception, locally.

“We are making very good progress – and receiving a lot of positive feedback from journalists, our customers and our internal staff. But we do have higher targets in our sights,” he said.

“Currently we want to focus on those models that have the biggest potential in the market, that is our first priority. That includes our SUV lines, compact and mid-sized SUVs, and our utes, which have been the pillars of

our sales model in the past three years.

“And as you will see this year as we expand to offer the Cannon Alpha and the Tank 500, I believe we will have the right model mix to feed Australian appetites, and that suit Australian lifestyles.”

The growing model mix now available to GWM customers in Australia and New Zealand – which will soon grow to include the hybridised Tank 500 seven-seat SUV and upper-medium Cannon Alpha dual-cab utility – allows the brand to compete in segments traditionally occupied by stalwart Japanese and American brands.

“We are considering a model we call the ‘Big Dog’ in China, likely to be renamed Dargo for Australia and New Zealand, a brand-new model that will likely come later on, and we will also see facelifted versions of some of our core models this year,” Mr Zhao said.

He said the range would continue to

grow, focusing strongly on vehicles he believed offered the right mix of capability and value to Australian and New Zealand buyers.

As well as continuing to update and improve GWM’s current offerings, Mr Zhao said the brand would continue to investigate segments it had not entered before, offering low- and zeroemissions options where available.

“Australian customers are a little unique when compared with other parts of the world in which we operate. As a developed country, the customers here are very focused on the value a product can offer, and I think Australian buyers are becoming more cognisant of the value of the GWM brand,” he said.

“But I also feel Australian customers are very practical and will buy vehicles that are suited to their needs.

“This is why we package our vehicles to attract even more customers

and will continue to offer more value wherever possible.”

In strengthening its commitment to its customers, GWM Australia has recently moved to offer a seven-yearunlimited-kilometre warranty in combination with capped-price servicing and roadside assistance, likewise for seven years.

Known as Care 777, the package will debut with the arrival of the Tank 500 next fortnight and will be offered retroactively on the smaller Tank 300 off-roader.

GWM Australia says there is no change to the current GWM Care aftersales package offered on other models, which would continue to be supported by a seven-year-unlimitedkilometre warranty with five years’ roadside assistance and a five-year capped-price servicing scheme.

– Matt Brogan

2017 Ford Ranger XL

2021

2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Isuzu Ute locks in electric D-Max

Isuzu

Ute will unveil its first battery electric D-Max at this week’s Bangkok International Motor Show, meeting what it says are a broad range of commercial and lifestyle buyer needs while at the same time retaining the ‘tough underlying performance expected of pick-up trucks’.

Further, GoAuto can now report the Isuzu D-Max EV is confirmed for the Australian market. What is not known at this stage is delivery timing, price or local specifications for the allelectric ute.

Isuzu Ute says the D-Max EV will offer a full-time four-wheel drive system with newly developed e-axles both front and rear.

The combination is said to offer excellent performance on rough roads and the linear acceleration and feel characteristic of battery electric vehicles – all while minimising road noise and vibration.

Furthermore, the model will retain the 3500kg braked towing capacity of its diesel-powered sibling, the battery electric version sharing the ladderframe chassis of its derivative.

Isuzu Ute said it was ‘keenly aware customers use pick-up trucks for various applications’ and the D-Max EV would launch in select mainland Europe markets in 2025, as well as into UK, Australia, Thailand and ‘other

countries based on market needs and the maturity of EV charging infrastructure’.

For the concept model, the specifications provided show a 66.9kWh lithium-ion battery pack and motor

outputs of 130kW and 325Nm. Top speed is listed at 130 kilometres an hour.

Charging times and range estimations have not been provided, however Isuzu Ute says a payload of 1000kg

would be maintained. It is expected the arrival of the D-Max EV will assist Isuzu Ute Australia in meeting the needs of the government’s incoming New Vehicle Efficiency Standards.

Last week, Isuzu Ute Australia urged the Federal Government to consult further with Australia’s automotive industry to identify a New Vehicle Efficiency Standard, NVES, to protect the interests and needs of all Australians irrespective of their locality.

The brand said the NVES proposal presented engineering, financial and timing challenges for many vehicle brands, particularly those centred on the importation of diesel-powered utility and large SUV models as part of their range, and ultimately risked negatively impacting Australian consumers, particularly those in rural and regional settings.

Further, Isuzu Ute Australia said while it was working to transition toward the production of low- and zeroemission vehicles on a global level, the reality of the situation was the development of such technology was in its infancy in the light commercial vehicle sector.

The latest announcement – which comes on the back of news a 48-volt mild-hybrid D-Max is also expected next year – indicates transition might now be closer than anticipated, giving the importer a lifeline in protecting its stake in the Australian market.

More details are expected to be announced imminently.

– Matt Brogan

Ute is yet to

LUXURY

Day

From The Weekly Advertiser archives:

March 25, 2004 –The Wool Factory wool manager Ian Walter and chief executive Tony Craig inspect an ultra-fine fleece in the organisation’s shearing shed. The Wool Factory of Horsham demonstrated the true meaning of ‘golden fleece’ when it was presented 23 ounces of minted gold coins after winning the coveted Ermenegildo Zegna Vellus Aureum International Trophy for wool 13.9 micron and finer in Sydney last Saturday.

Police have stressed a

vigilant in reporting illegal or suspicious activities across the region as a national crackdown on outlaw bikie gangs continues to attract headlines. Horsham acting Inspector Brendan Broadbent said Wimmera centres were lucky to have so far avoided becoming bases for highly organised criminal chapters.

Five years ago: March 27, 2019

Visiting country music fans expecting Horsham Country Music Festival to continue into the future are already booking their accommodation for next year. Festival co-ordinator Lyall Wheaton confirmed many people were pencilling in a 2020 date despite a lack of any group or individuals coming forward to take control of the event.

One year ago: March 29, 2023

A 14-unit development in Horsham’s Sunnyside will support people with a long-term mental health diagnosis to live independently in the community. Work to construct The Haven Foundation development, worth $5.6-million on a decades-vacant doubleblock in Baillie Street, has begun, with a scheduled completion date of August 2024. On This

1. Ferreting for rabbits has been popular in the Wimmera in the past. What are female and male ferrets called?

2. Where in the human body do we find the globus pallidus or paleostriatum?

3. A fall-out between brothers Adolf and Rudolf Dassler led them to create rival companies and rivalry products that for decades even had Wimmera sports people arguing which products were the best. What are the names of the German companies?

4. Name the two large indoor pavilions at Wimmera Events Centre at Longerenong that have become an integral part of Wimmera Machinery Field Days.

5. Yanac in the southern Mallee shares its name with a district in the province of Corongo in what country?

6. What previously traditional family event on November 5 each year died in the Wimmera in the 1970s, like many other parts of Australia, with the introduction of stricter laws based on safety and the threat of fire?

7. Which has feathery antennas – moths or butterflies?

8. How many times did Australia’s seventh Prime Minister Billy Hughes, who led the country from 1915 to 1923, change political parties?

9. Lee Newman patented a felt-tipped marking pen in 1910. In most Australian states we now often refer to a thick felttipped permanent-marking pen as what, based on brand name?

10. What was the name given to a hypothetical continent described by Aristotle, expanded by Ptolemy and Cicero and appearing on European maps between 15th and 18th centuries that means ‘south land’?

10. Terra Australis. It is the origin of the name Australia.

tralian 1930-31, United Australia 1931-44, Liberal 1944-52. 9. Texta. People in Queensland sometimes refer to them as Nikkos.

1901-1916, National Labor 1916-17, Nationalist 1917-30, -Aus

Pavilion. 5. Peru. 6. Guy Fawkes Night. 7. Moths. 8. Five. Labor

Adolf developed Adidas and Rudolf Puma when their joint -com pany split in 1948. 4. Moore Exhibition Centre and Alan Heard

Answers: 1. A female is a jill, a male is a hob. 2. It is a structure in the brain involved in the regulation of voluntary movement. 3.

FOR THE WEEK MARCH 30 TO APRIL 5

ARIES: (March 21-April 20)

Lucky Colour: White

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 1.6.5.2.

Lotto Numbers: 2.5.12.26.36.39.

You may encounter challenges with communication during this period, which could lead to uncomfortable situations. To relieve stress and potentially improve your luck, it may be worth considering participating in games of chance.

TAURUS: (April 21-May 20)

Lucky Colour: Orange

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 2.6.8.5.

Lotto Numbers: 1.15.24.40.22.8.

Your schedule is packed with activities, leaving you with limited time to complete everything. It is important to pace yourself and avoid getting overwhelmed, as taking breaks and resting is crucial.

GEMINI: (May 21-June 21)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Thursday

Racing Numbers: 1.3.5.9.

Lotto Numbers: 1.15.26.34.40.33.

During this period, you have the potential to make a favourable impression on individuals of importance. However, it is advisable to avoid going overboard with your attempts at entertaining them.

CANCER: (June 22-July 22)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 2.3.5.6.

Lotto Numbers: 1.15.26.34.4.22.

It’s important to resist the urge to celebrate prematurely, as it could potentially harm your prospects of being promoted. To improve your chances, take the time to carefully evaluate and understand the problems at work.

LEO: (July 23-August 22)

Lucky Colour: Cream

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 1.6.9.8.

Lotto Numbers: 9.8.15.45.32.6

You may have noticed that the problem that has been causing you concern is resolving on its own. In fact, you have been presented with a plethora of new and exciting possibilities that could potentially change your life for the better.

VIRGO: (August 23-September 23)

Lucky Colour: Violet

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 5.6.2.3.

Lotto Numbers: 2.15.26.34.40.5

As the days unfold, you will find yourself with ample time to indulge in your favourite pastimes or explore new ones. This period will also be marked by a heightened receptivity towards your ideas. Share them with those around you!

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 5.6.2.3.

TaKE a BREaK ^ _ ` a b c d e f g h

LIBRA: (September 24-October 23)

Lotto Numbers: 5.12.23.36.39.4.

As you navigate through this period, it is crucial to approach situations with diplomacy and tact. Strive to strike a balance between being pleasant and not appearing overly sweet. It’s important to stay mindful of potential pressures.

SCORPIO: (October 24-November 22)

Lucky Colour: Silver

Lucky Day: Sunday

Racing Numbers: 2.3.5.6.

Lotto Numbers: 2.12.26.35.40.33.

As you navigate your social life, it’s imperative to prioritise self-care to avoid feeling overwhelmed and drained. Introducing a new diet or exercise regimen can have a positive impact on your physical and mental wellbeing.

SAGITTARIUS: (November 23-December 20)

Lucky Colour: Peach

Lucky Day: Saturday

Racing Numbers: 4.6.8.9.

Lotto Numbers: 8.15.9.6.21.33.

As you navigate through this period, you may find that the spotlight is on you. It’s important to be mindful of how you present yourself as others may be paying close attention. A new interest or activity may capture your attention.

CAPRICORN: (December 21-January 19)

Lucky Colour: White

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 2.3.5.8.

Lotto Numbers: 2.15.26.34.40.11.

During this enchanting phase, you can expect to receive a lot of admiration and interest from individuals of the opposite gender. If you find yourself drawn towards someone, it’s advisable to avoid any overt displays of eagerness.

AQUARIUS: (January 20-February 19)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 8.9.5.2.

Lotto Numbers: 8.15.29.34.40.11

You might just be in luck when it comes to searching for a missing item or finding great deals while shopping. Additionally, you could have the opportunity to make new connections with interesting people.

PISCES: (February 20-March 20)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 2.6.5.4.

Lotto Numbers: 5.12.24.45.40.33.

The near future may hold an exciting surprise celebration for you, possibly involving someone close to you. Additionally, you may receive news from a distant location that could spark your imagination and lead to new plans.

Easter Eggstras

QUICK CROSSWORD

1 Nimble (5)

2 Malformed (9)

3 Astrological prediction (9)

4 Socialises (7)

5 Nordic island nation (7)

6 Pictorial representation of data (5)

7 Snow hut (5)

8 Ignore (9)

13 Mixed alcoholic drinks (9)

15 Precious stones

QUIZ

1. Saoirse Ronan (pictured) plays which character in Greta Gerwig’s 2019 adaptation of Little Women

2. How many time zones does Russia span?

3. “I believe in America. America has made my fortune” is the opening line of which film?

4. In what year was Amazon’s first e-reader, the Kindle, released?

5. How many sides does an icosagon have?

6. What was the occupation of Jerry’s nemesis Newman in the ‘90s sitcom Seinfeld

7. Which century saw the end of the Roman Empire?

8. Colcannon is an Irish side dish made from mashed potatoes and what?

9. True or false: the University of Oxford is older than the Aztec Empire?

10. Who wrote the 19th-century gothic novel Dracula?

WORDFIND

WORDFILL

EDGEWORD

CROSS MATHS

BURDETT, Tom

Funeral arrangements for Tom Burdett have not yet been finalised.

Please see future papers for details.

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member

HARTIGAN, Verona Merle

Funeral arrangements for Verona Merle Hartigan have not yet been finalised. Please see future edition for details.

Passed away on March 20, 2024 aged 65 years.

Son of the late Jack & Pat.

Loved Uncle of Jason, Larelle, Jeremy and Miranda.

Great Uncle to Briney, Sasha and Hallie. Now At Peace

HARTIGAN, Verona Merle

Passed away on March 23, 2024 aged 96 years.

Dearly loved wife of Jack (dec).

Loving mother and mother in law of Dean & Faye; Kerry (dec); Jan (dec) & Mal (dec); Bruce & Adele; Helen & Dan. Adored Nanny to all of her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Dearly Loved and Forever In Our Hearts

HOFFMANN, Beverly Jean O.A.M

October 5, 1934 to March 20, 2024

Passed away peacefully.

Wife of Kevin (dec).

Mother of Brenden and Dian. Grandmother and Great Grandmother to their children and families.

The funeral service for Bev will be held at the Dimboola St Peter’s Anglican Church, Thursday, March 28 at 2pm

Bev will be privately interred.

We invite people to attend the Dimboola Football Club from 3pm, to share refreshments & memories of Mum.

Emiley & Mathew Bone

Nhill, Dimboola & Kaniva

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member

5 puppies for sale, born 10/12 2023 S/N MB144958, 953011010 047954,953010100477382,9530 10100626418,953010100427224 ,953010100684594 $1000ono Ph 0490532271

Border Collie pups , born 3rd Feb 24, ready to go now, located in Balmoral 3407, microvhipped, vaccinated, worked and vet checked, 1 girl m/chip# 953010100846595, 1 boy m/chip# 953010100752144, source# MB246812 $900 each Ph Jenni 0429707461

Bristlenose catfish, great tank cleaners $5ea until sold out Ph 0474159010 after 6.30pm

Budgies, assorted colours $10 each Ph 0417533579

Budgies , assorted colours, pastels $10 each Ph 0419505737

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

Ferrets x3 15 mo, good workers regretful sale $25 each Ph 0439666016

Goats for sale, very quiet, from $120 each Ph 0427361940

Kelpie Pup, Mack from 2 good working parents, intelligent, gentle pup, Bobtailed, MC 9851141006234859, SN EE 232038 Ph 0427861437

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

Parrots for sale, hand raised, young green cheek conures, extremely friendly, young aviary bred bourkes/ turks Ph 0408535515

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

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

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

Pups Kelp-Collie x St Poodle well loved, ready, suit family w kids, source:MB223023 vet-checked mchip 953010006636005,006, 953010006635755,857,861,8 70,874,994, visits welcome Ph 0458169182

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

A large elephant ornament carrying a baby elephant in its trunk, 36cms tall and 538cms long, a quick sale for $600 Ph 53824788

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

1998 Jayco Westport , full annexe, a/c, oven, microwave, always shedded, many extras $22,000ono Ph 0419514118

2009 Windsor Genesis caravan semi off road, 19.6 with shower and toilet, air con, diesel heater and solar system, VGC $28,000 Ph 0439809490 or 0411120780

Majestic Knight, tandem axel, full ensuite, self contained, full annex, new awning $49,500 Ph 0418506271

2016 Jayco Journey Outback, pop-top, 17.5’, ensuite, separate toilet and shower, EC, always shedded, $42,000ono Ph 0418991140 Kaniva

Concept Ascot caravan, 2006, 18’, pop-top, tare 1420, low kms, kept undercover, regularly serviced, EC, many extras inc, near new full annexe, easy to tow, R3373 $22,000 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, $16,500 Ph 0409967815, Horsham

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

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

Isuzu Outback Express

Motorhome for sale, 2 seater, sleeps 3, auto, deisel, fridge, tv, shower, toilet, stove and lots more, have to see to believe, can drive on normal car licence, 3.1m long, RWC, $34,000 with 3mth rego, $45,000 with 12mth rego Ph Phillip 0428173606 or Susan and ask for Phillp 0458727370 Horsham

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2014

Animals

Animals

Animals

Fire-fighting tank, poly 3000L, GC $1760 Ph 0427716088

Fuel trailer, 650ltr $2200 Ph 0427716088

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

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

John Deere 3010 tractor with cab, 1965 model, rear tires 40 % front tires 60%, runs well $8000 Ph 0438951101

Macey Field Bin in GO $3000 Ph 0429857207

MF tea 20 with 2 spare rear wheel rims 1 with tyre $2500 Ph 0419574884

REDUCED Chamberlain

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

REDUCED Field Bins , 2 Jaeschke 32t field bins, one with square top lids with and sight glasses $9000, large round top one with normal lids $8000, 2 Macey 28t $2500, all prices plus Gst Ph0400603022

Sherwell auger 33ft by 9 inches, 20hp, van guard, electric start motor, no fertiliser used, easy to handle, always shedded, VGO $7500 plus Gst Ph 0429979100

Sherwell Auger 50’, 9”, runs well $15,000 plus Gst ono Ph 0429911201

Silos Vennings, 10 tonne, GC $1760 each Ph 0427716088

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Honda EU20i Inverter F750, good condition, Ph 0427886272

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

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

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

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

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

Workshop manuals, parts, books and catalogues Ph 0419821563

3 seater leather couch Ph 0439110899

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

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

King single trundle latex bed spotless, pull out latex mattresses, top quality, $550ono Ph 0427042750 Nhill

The Weekly Advertiser welcomes your advertising. We are required strictly by law to include specific information on some items when publishing your advertisement. A snapshot of your obligations are as follows:

BOATSAll advertisements for boats must include:

• Hull number or registration number of the boat If a trailer is included with the boat, the advertisement must also include:

• Registration number or chassis number of the trailer.

17’ speedboat Caribbean 150 V6 Yamaha on a Brooker tilt trailer, dual axle, motor has done 230hrs, VGC, all ski gear with the boat including boat cover, priced to sell $10,000 Ph 0407084235

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

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

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

Dehavaland 4MT tinnie 25 HP

2/S yamaha electric start, power trim tilt nav lights, bilge pump windscreen, AM-FM radio, reg no FX-104, 8 months rego, tilt trailer with electric winch, 12 months rego, rego ZPZ-415, $4,000 Ph 0427825986

Stacer 400 bass EVO aluminium hull GN915, 25HP mercury 2 stroke, dunbier trailer P72-007, no salt water, all EC, $7500 Ph 0428825864

68 Anderson St, Warracknabeal

Sunday, March 31 1pm to 1pm

Assorted collectibles including cameras/photographic items. Welder, books, plants and much more.

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

Electric Recliner lift chair, $1500, Ph 0435787449, pick up Horsham Gopher Red Top Gun “Mustang”, 2years old, near new, $4500ono Ph 0427857510

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

Seat Walker, GC, $175ono, Ph 0435787499

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

Wheelchair and Compression cushion, VGO $600ono Ph 0427857510

Harley Davidson, custom 1956 frame black, 200 rear end, stretched tanks 3-inch belt drive primary RevTech 4 speed ratchet, with extras, will go quick $18,000 Ph 0423859198

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

Honda motorbikes 50cc and 125cc (both 50 years old), old farming equipment including 12ft Seeder, forklift carryall, hay rake, centrifugal PTO slasher, and reciprocating slasher all to suit low HP tractor 65hp, 3.75-metre fibreglass fishing boat with 25 hp Johnson outdoor motor, galvanized iron trailer, with an electric motor for fishing, and spare trailer tyre; portable 25-tonne wood block splitter petrol driven, minimal use. 12-volt Triang train set with approx. 20ft of track, all disassembled. Assorted plumbing fittings, mostly brass, old lamps, 4 old lawnmowers. Household items, assorted furniture including mid-century, board games etc.

For more details Des Lardner - 0428 826006 Cash, Card, Cheques accepted.

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

Load Leveller Weight

Distribution kit for towing, suitable for caravans, horse floats etc. Ball weight 165kg, new never been used, $250 Ph 0407046864 Horsham

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 $2900ono Ph Max 0477317809

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

Motor Vehicles $3000 - $10,000

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

2011 Holden VE1 SV6

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

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

2014 Navara D40 ST, 4x4, canopy, tow bar, new W/screens, back shockers, will come with 3months rego and RWC, reg 1D19LN, very low kms 135,000, $19,750ono Ph 0409210594

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

Hyundai iLoad, 6 seater, manual, diesel, 2,04,000kms, rego YPK951, $15,000 Ph 0497205899

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

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

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

2019 Subaru Impreza Hatch back, AWD, glass electric sunroof, safety, comfort, Pearl White, EC, 40,000kms, 1PA8PJ $28,500 Ph 0427822909

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

Mitsubishi Triton CLX 4x4, MR MY23, DT, diesel, 6SP auto, double cab, model MR4V47, build date 20/12/2022, 18 inch back alloy wheels, Mitsubishi mats, tub liner, T bar, nudge bar, side steps, mud flaps, RWC, rego till March 2025, 27,000kms, 1WH7UP $46,500 Ph 0419007741

REDUCED 2017 Toyota Fortuner

Crusade 4WD 2.8L TD, 7 Seats, excellent condition for age, bull bar, tow bar, spotlights & UHF radio included, fully serviced at Horsham Toyota, RWC included, 137000km, 1KQ9HU $40,500 neg please call or text for more information 0423024026

REDUCED 2022 Toyota Hi Lux Workmate, manual, petrol 4X2 tray, as new, reverse camera, first reg in Feb 2023, recently serviced, 12 months reg, RWC, only 2800kms, 1WN4LZ $27,500 Horsham, Ph 0428504171

Silver 2007 Toyota Landcruiser GXL V8 Diesel, EC with accessories, locally purchased and owned, 298,000kms, WEU939 $47,500 Ph 0428 820 445

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

Fender copy guitar, near new $350 Ph 0419509335

CLEARANCE SALE

publishing your advertisement. A snapshot of your obligations are as follows:

ROAD VEHICLESAll advertisements for road vehicles must include a price, as well as:

• A registration number, if registered

2 bedroom house for rent in Horsham Ph 0432774645

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

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

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

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

Wanted, Land to Lease or Share-Farm anywhere south of Horsham, from 100 acres to 700 acres, cropping country preferred Ph Roger Hallam at Mockinya 0418822700

Overcoming Fear with Love

The Good Book says “There is no fear in love, perfect love drives out all fear”. I hold the view that these two forces drive the universe, love and fear. The other day, I was listening to an American News Broadcast after the post Superbowl Kansas shooting. The news reader concluded “We have now had more massed shootings, than days this year”. That’s more than one per day. We cannot comprehend how anyone can be so full of anger, bitterness, rage and contempt for others that they would indiscriminatly murder so many innocent people. It’s fear! Fear creates suspicion, resentment and anger. And unchecked, it results in violence against those we fear. Through fear, we then find others who think alike and that fear gets multiplied. Over the last few years, many politicians have detected this fear and for purely political gain exploited it and fed it under the general brand of ‘freedom of speech’ or ‘national security’. Extremist groups and individuals have also detected it and carried out their foul deeds with a mistaken view that they will push liberal societies over the edge to be ruled by fear. Their objective is to have us become more fearful by the day. But, clearly, whilst the world is appalled and shocked by events such as happened in Kansas, such events usually result in the opposite response, in an incredible outpouring of love. It is easy to think that the forces of darkness are too powerful to resist, I believe that love is the most powerful force in the world. The day Jesus died, it looked like violence, hate and fear had won the day. But God’s love was on complete display. Jesus died for a reason. So that you and I could be forgiven and experience God’s amazing grace. The Resurrection is God’s word that Love Rules. Live in love everyone! Paster Dave Tolputt – Life Links Church Ararat

It’s on again, this Easter at the Pickers Market at Stawell, Saturday, March 30 to Sunday, April 7 from 10am to 3pm.

More vintage buttons and laces.

*60 years of private collection, Glorious glass buttons incl. Featherstone and Bimini.

*Linen, fabrics, motifs, doll buttons, Disney buttons, collectables.

*Large collection of biscuit tins.

The Weekly Advertiser, 3WM and MIXX FM Easter Trading Hours

The office will be closed:

Friday, March 29 (Good Friday)

Monday, April 1 (Easter Monday

Revised radio and newspaper deadlines are in place. Please contact your advertising consultant for more details. Alternatively, phone the station on 5382 1351.

Please note: classified deadlines remain the same

horsham@ontgroup.com.au

Christian Devotion

communities.

celebration to acknowledge volunteers. At this important than ever to volunteers.

18 and runs until Communities.

collectivehatsand ofvolunteers

the Centre for

Participation and the Volunteer of postcards.

Edenhope Memorial Wimmera Southern Mallee Wimmera Shire Council, Community Health have across our communities.

Zoom... Wimmera to come together morning tea to celebrate 5382 5607 or email link and password.

Want to volunteer?

Early Childhood Educators

PART TIME

Diploma Qualified Educator

Natimuk Rd Kindergarten - Horsham

5 days a week – 33.50 hours

Applications close 5pm Friday 12 April 2024

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

CASUAL – Horsham, Hindmarsh, Stawell

Teachers, Diploma’s & Cert III Qualified Educators Kindergarten and Long Day Care

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

>

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

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

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

More information or to obtain a Position

Happy Volunteering!

centreforparticipation.org.au

Bennett Road Sewer

Rising Main Extension Tenders

Contract Number: C01315

GWMWater

am

Tenders close: 2 pm, Wednesday 17 April 2024.

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

Mark Williams Managing Director

GWMWater

Call:

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

English Language Program Trainer (Casual)

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

As an English Language Trainer, you'll play a vital role in designing, developing, and delivering English language classes to newly arrived migrants. Your responsibilities will include creating engaging lesson plans, providing supportive learning environments, and assisting students in building confidence in their English language skills.

Additionally, you'll collaborate with our Community Impact Manager to ensure effective training delivery and support for our learners.

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

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

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

GWMWater

an

Procurement Officer

(Fixed Term 12 months)

Position number VG/2204B

The Procurement Officer is responsible for the administration and processing of contracts and purchase orders for GWMWater and has the responsibility for monitoring compliance with our Procurement Strategy and Purchasing Policy.

If you have an eye for detail and strong organisational and time management skills, this may be the role for you!

Applications close: Friday 5 April 2024

GWMWater contact: Ollie Reynolds, People Talent and Culture Officer

Management Accountant

Position number VG/2203

If

•

•

•

The Management Accountant will be involved in a variety of tasks including ensuring that there are adequate controls over the recording of financial information in respect of GWMWater’s funded capital programs, preparation of monthly business performance reports, and reviewing of revenue in preparation for reporting and budgeting.

Applications close: Friday 5 April 2024

GWMWater contact: Ollie Reynolds, People Talent and Culture

St Paul VI Parish Wimmera-Mallee

Position Vacant:

Administration O cer

3 Days Per Week, 9am-4pm

A position is available for an enthusiastic and motivated Administration O cer, based in the St Paul VI Catholic Parish o ce in Horsham

• We are looking for a person with sound knowledge of Microsoft Word, Publisher, Excel and PowerPoint.

• Must have excellent computer, communication and organisational skills, and be able to work independently as well as part of a team.

A Working with Children’s Check and National Police Check are required for the successful applicant.

A position description is available at the Parish O ce, 10 Roberts Ave, Horsham, ph 5382 1155 or email managerwimmeramallee@ballarat.catholic.org.au

Please submit application letter and resume with two referees listed, by close of business Tuesday 16 th April 2024.

Opportunity This Way

Current Vacancies

Free From Violence Project Officer

Funded through the Local Government Free from Violence Program, you will be integral in supporting the health and wellbeing of our community and organisation

engaging in primary prevention activities that reduce

and family violence and promote gender equality.

Plant Operator Labourer, Jeparit Council is seeking an experienced machinery operator or truck driver who takes pride in their work and wants to contribute to the community. HR Licence is essential, a team oriented and hardworking attitude an advantage!

wanted: chainsaw operators/contractors

NORTHERN GRAMPIANS REGION

SMALL TO MEDIUM SAWS ARE SUITABLE

Task involves fruit tree pruning –long-term project, 12 to 18 months

Must have own equipment/ABN/Insurance

Also wanted: Support labourer/farm hands

Call or text the manager on 0499 467 742

for preliminary discussion

IMMEDIATE START FOR RIGHT CANDIDATES

Site office administrator

to team up with architectural designers/ engineers/construction managers

1. Liaise with head office and local offices, with

2. Own lap top [ideally excel/word] and vehicle

3. Hours 9am to 3pm (approx.) 5 days a week (flexible)

4. Casual rates [abn can be arranged] well above awards

5. Travel allowance

6. Start 12 April 24 site airconditioned offices [good amenities] Stawell till June 24 approx.

7. Opportunity to continue on other projects in the region

Email by 12 April: Barry Gale barry@keyiaust.com your CV, will be responded to same day; Call alternatively: 0408 773 277

Wanted, casual cleaners

Send your resumes to karolynsampson@ yahoo.com

Due to company growth, JT Johnson & Sons is on the lookout for some suitably qualified and talented individuals to join our dynamic team in the Dooen facility on a full-time basis.

WE ARE HIRING

*Quality Control & Logistics Coordinator *Grower Liaison / Procurement Officer

With a rich history spanning 100 years, JT Johnson & Sons has been at the forefront of the livestock feed production industry.As a family-owned business, we take pride in our heritage and are committed to maintaining the highest standards.Our success is built on a foundation of genuine care for our customers and staff which has led to an exceptional work environment with high staff retention.

Applications close Wednesday 3 April 2024 at 12noon.

Closing Date Extended Manager Development and Healthy Environments

This key role provides leadership to the Environmental Health, Local Laws and Planning departments, ensuring regulatory compliance across these areas.

Applications close Friday 5 April 2024 at 12noon.

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

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

be someone making a difference for people in your community

Employment Opportunities

**Attractive salary packaging in addition to salary** See our website for further information

We are seeking committed and passionate people who are ready for exciting and rewarding careers in our growing community health organisation

Diabetes Connect Case Manager

30.4 hours per week

$36.00 to $51.76 per hour

Contact: Kristy Price

Closing: 12pm Monday 8 April 2024

To download a position description and key selection criteria form visit our website: gch.org.au

For further information email employment@gch.org.au or call contact person on 5358 7400

be

Employment Opportunities

If you are ready to be part of our legacy and contribute to this thriving company, join us at JT Johnson & Sons, where your skills and dedication will be celebrated.Don’t miss this opportunity to be a part of something extraordinary!

Please send your resume to hr@jtj.com.au and include “Quality Control” or “Grower Liaison” in the subject line.

For inquiries phone Tony Huebner 0447 722 669 This position pays above award rates.

21 radio stations, The Weekly Advertiser newspaper, ACE Digital, and ACE Direct Sales, and employing over 200 people across Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland. The Horsham base is home to newspaper; The Weekly Advertiser and two radio stations; 3WM and MIXX FM, delivering quality content and news to the Wimmera, Mallee and Grampians regions.

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Orange Door Practitioner (Victim Survivor Focussed)

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$47.50 per hour

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Closing: 12pm Monday 15 April 2024

To

For further information email employment@gch.org.au or

contact person on 5358 7400

The Weekly Advertiser is a free weekly newspaper featuring news and sport from across the Wimmera, Mallee and Grampians regions and is seeking a journalist to join its awardwinning team.

This is a full-time position but comes with highly flexible arrangements for the right applicant. Newsgathering would include hard news, features, agriculture and sport.

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ACE Radio Broadcasters is an equal-opportunity employer.

Home-track domination

Local trainers dominated the two greyhound meetings at Horsham last week, with Andrea Gurry leading the way with three individual winners.

This week, the club races in the unfamiliar timeslots of today and Friday, with the club given the honour of racing on Good Friday with the primary objective on-course to raise money for the Royal Children’s Hospital.

Good Friday Appeal fundraising began on Horsham Cup night earlier this month and the club thanks the community for their donations to date.

The public is invited to attend the greyhounds on Good Friday and donate any money that can be spared – as we know it’s a tremendous cause.

Last week there were 24 races and local trainers won nine – Gurry, of Nhill, won with Westar Commander, 410 metre in 23.27 seconds; Fitzroy Bale, 410 metres, 23.01 seconds; and Miss Verdansky, 410 metres, 23.56 seconds.

Beulah’s Garry George broke through with Passing for her maiden victory in a quick 23.19 seconds over the 410-metre journey leading all the way.

Another Houdini was successful for Peter Carter, Horsham, over the 485-metre trip in 27.14 seconds and

with Peter Carter

was followed immediately afterwards by Horsham’s team Hartigan when Lala Rapid won over the same distance with a brilliant railing effort to win by more than six lengths in 27.48 seconds.

Team Fullerton, of Red Cliffs, then returned after a few weeks racing away from home and secured victory with See Saw Lass in the smart time of 23.27 seconds.

Heather Baxter, Murtoa, produced Circle The Starts, which jumped straight to the front and exploded to run a best of the day 23.01-second performance, which was followed by Doug and Paul Hammerstein, of Ararat, getting the job done with Numerous over the 410-metre trip in 23.45 seconds.

Once again, this Friday is a special occasion for the club, which would love to see as many people on course as possible in order to build the donation total toward the Royal Children’s Hospital.

sport

SUCCESS: Horsham’s under-18 girls squad celebrates its grand final victory at the Basketball Victoria Junior Country Championships after an undefeated run.

Hot Hornets at junior championships

Horsham Amateur Basketball Association, HABA, saw success at the Basketball Victoria Junior Country Championships in Bendigo earlier this month, with three representative teams making finals.

The association’s under-18 girls squad was undefeated in division three, winning its three pool games by an average of 24 points before defeating Morwell 42-21 in a quarter final and Wonthaggi 65-31 in a semifinal to reach the grand final.

The Hornets’ grand final opponent Maffra also presented little obstacle, with Horsham winning 47-26 to claim a gold medal under coach Rebecca McIntyre.

Horsham’s under-16 boys squad

nearly repeated the result in division three, winning each of their pool games and dispatching Bacchus Marsh and Wallan in quarter and semi-finals respectively to set up a grand final against Melton. A slow third quarter proved too much for the team to overcome, as it went down 63-73 in the grand final to claim silver.

The under-16 girls suffered an early slip-up against Shepparton in division three, but recovered with strong wins against Terang and Southern Peninsula to reach the quarter finals.

The team had a memorable onepoint win against Moe in a quarter final but went down to a powerful Colac side in a semi-final, with Co-

lac going on to win the grand final.

HABA board member Jon Fitzgerald said the association was proud of all its players’ efforts.

“Congratulations to all our junior athletes, coaches, team managers and parents for a successful weekend,” he said.

Horsham’s under-14 and under-12 representative teams will play in the Junior Country Championships during April, with the under-14s playing from April 6 to 8 and the under-12s from April 12 to 14.

HABA will host its junior presentation night on April 19 to conclude the season.

– Colin MacGillivray

YoUr CLUB in 2024

Surprising Saints ready to rise

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

NewEdenhope-Apsley senior football coach

Adi Campbell believes his team has what it takes to be the ‘surprise packet’ of the 2024 season.

The Saints finished sixth on the ladder last year and were dispatched by NoradjuhaQuantong in a lopsided elimination final, but Campbell said the team displayed renewed motivation during pre-season training, with a handful of recruits sprinkled among a core group of local players.

“The way the locals have been training, I’m looking for us to finish pretty high. I reckon we’re looking at a finals team,” he said.

“I’m not sure what the other clubs are doing or what they look like because I’m new to the league, but from what I can gather, especially with the way our boys are training at the moment, we’ll be looking good.

“We’re getting about 30 to training and the boys are really committed to having a crack, so I’m quietly optimistic that we’ll be right up the top somewhere.”

Campbell was tight-lipped

CoaChes

Seniors: Adi Campbell

Reserves: Mitch Linto

Under-17s: Ben Muir

Under-14s: Allan McIntyre

Under-11s: Adam Dunstan

Auskick: Brad West and Grant Coxon

about the Saints’ recruiting process, saying he preferred opposing teams to know as little as possible entering the season, but confirmed former SANFL junior player Brock Summerhayes would join the club.

Also bolstering the Saints’ line-up will be 2023 KowreeNarracoorte-Tatiara Football League, KNTFL, under-17 best-and-fairest Heath Keatley, who crosses from Bordertown.

Midfielder Adam Hood will step into the senior squad from the Saints’ under-17 ranks, while Charlie Campbell was tabbed as a player to watch.

Edenhope-Apsley president Lizzie Kealy said some families had chosen to depart the club during the summer, with

rumours circulating an Apsleybased contingent of the club would look to join with KNTFL team Border Districts.

Earlier this month the KNTFL announced Border Districts would play two home games at Apsley in 2024.

Ms Kealy acknowledged the departure of some players from Edenhope-Apsley and wished them well.

“As with all clubs there is movement of players and families,” she said.

“A few families chose to depart the club and join another club, which is fine. That’s a personal choice for them.

“There was a lot of misconstrued information and rumours going around, and I think it would be remiss of me to brush over it, but we’re hitting the ground running.”

Ms Kealy said enthusiasm was high at the Saints.

“We’re just looking forward to pushing into 2024 and having as much success on and off the field as we can,” she said.

“We want to ensure our sporting clubs can continue for our kids and our communities going forward, because that’s the most important thing.”

Harrison Evans in action last season.

YoUr CLUB

Rebuilding season

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Edenhope-Apsley’s A Grade netball team will enter this season with the unique distinction of being a reigning premier with several question marks over its head.

The Saints were dominant in 2023, going undefeated en route to a 10-goal grand-final win against Laharum.

But after an off-season that saw the departure of several key premiership figures, returning coach Sarah Domaschenz and her new co-coach Paris Hardwick must work to forge a new identity for their squad.

Gone will be Emily Burgess and Sarah Burgess, Sacha McDonald, Kristin Bowen, Hayley Campbell and Shannon Freeman.

The only starting player to return from last season’s premiership team is goalie Lavinia Fox.

Domaschenz said the Saints would field ‘a fair few newbies’ in 2024.

“It’s probably a rebuilding year for us really,” she said.

“Until we get everyone on the court we won’t know what new combinations will look like. We’ve had a good pre-season and it’s been really well attended. Spirits are high. Although we have lost a few, we’re feeling positive about this season.”

Domaschenz said the Saints had brought in some new players to help fill the gaps.

Former Taylors Lake player Teagan Kanoa-Muir will suit up for the Saints this year, while Tahlia Sailor crosses from Donald.

Hardwick said Edenhope-Apsley’s junior players would also gain invaluable experience this season.

“Jas McIntyre will step up into A Grade full-time. She was our junior development player last year,”

CoaChes

A Grade: Sarah Domaschenz and Paris Hardwick

B Grade: Sarah Domaschenz and Paris Hardwick

C Grade: Michelle Penrose

C Reserve: Jess McIntyre

17-and-under: Morgan Coventry and Nashira Lees

15-and-under: No team

13-and-under: Loren Linto

Modified: Caitlin Smith and Lisa Oliver

NetSetGo: Bryony Brinckman

Hardwick said. “There are a couple of others like Charlotte Henderson and Isabel Payne who will get opportunities, but because we’re working as an A and B squad at the moment, they will be developed there.

“Jas will float from midcourt to defence, Issy is a middy to a goalie and Charlotte is a defender. It will be good experience for them to step into the senior team this year.”

Hardwick said while the team was facing ‘a little bit of the unknown’, its primary intention was to have an enjoyable season.

“I think rebuilding is the main goal. It definitely is a new team, but that doesn’t mean we can’t still have success in some form,” she said.

“It is still very early. We haven’t had the whole team together and we’re still looking at selections with our A and B squads.

“Once we have the team pinpointed, we’ll have a better idea of how it’s all going to look.”

Lavinia Fox is the sole A Grade player from 2023 taking to the court this season.

Stability, consistency keys

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Consistency will be key for Natimuk United this season as it prepares to blood a rising group of youngsters.

Returning senior coach Jarred Combe said the team would have a new look in 2024 after the departures of some of last season’s key players.

Among the outs is Todd Stevenson, who has transferred to Donald.

Stevenson was one of the Rams’ standout players last year and was named among the team’s best in 13 of his 15 games played.

Combe remained tight-lipped on Natimuk United’s other departures, preferring instead to focus on the young players who are set to gain senior experience.

“We’ve had a steady number of recruits coming in and a strong junior list of top-age under-17s and players fresh out of the under-17s grand final last year,” he said.

“Young players such as Cody Maybery, Ned Glascott, Archie Sudholz, Jack Dean, Bailey Taylor and Joey Nagorcka

Seniors: Jarred Combe

Reserves: Jye Rabone

Under-17s: Matt Lee

Under-14s: Evo Hennessy

Under-11s: To be confirmed

Under-9s: Jason Skiller

will get great exposure to senior football this season.”

Combe said enthusiasm remained high at Natimuk Untied despite the player departures.

He said pre-season training sessions were some of the best-attended in his time at the club.

“A big positive for us was great numbers in our preChristmas sessions,” he said.

“In a farming community during harvest, numbers tend to be the bare minimum, but in December we averaged in the high 20s each session.

“That positivity continued into this year.

“The playing list has shown a great enthusiasm towards pre-season training, with the

numbers the best they’ve been in five-plus years.

“We’ve had a modernised, tailored pre-season program, which players have embraced.”

Combe said 2024 was about laying a foundation for the senior football program to build on.

“Whether the pre-season enthusiasm translates to more wins this season I’m not sure, but I know it will in years to come,” he said.

“Results, win or loss, won’t determine the direction we take.

“The club as a whole knows what we are trying to achieve and the processes we have in place.”

Combe said stability and consistency would be priorities for the Rams.

“We finished off 2023 strongly with a few really good wins and some close losses,” he said.

“Our main issue in the first half of last season was a lack of depth and consistency with team selection.

“We’re working towards greater consistency in performance and team selection from week to week.”

Jono Lovel will be back in action with Natimuk United this season.

YoUr CLUB in 2024

Growing together

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

One of the Horsham District Football Netball League’s youngest A Grade netball teams will be even younger in 2024, with Natimuk United set to field a new-look outfit.

While coach Danielle Hanson will return, her playing group will look vastly different, with five players departing from last year’s team.

Out are Beth Sudholz with university commitments, as well as Ebony Klowss and sisters Eliza and Mackenzie Camilleri, who all have travel plans. Also out for the season is Brooklyn Fraser, who tore a knee ligament before the start of preseason training.

Hanson admitted a high turnover of players would be challenging for a young team that finished with four wins and 12 losses in 2023, but said the club’s young players would benefit from the experience.

“It’s hard, because there are big shoes to fill. Last year’s team was a young team, and this year’s team will be younger again,” she said.

“At the moment we’re trying to develop the team-bonding side of things.

“We’re not working on set plays yet, we’re just trying to get everyone bonded as a team and building camaraderie.”

Stepping into Natimuk United’s A Grade team will be midcourt players Jerae Trigg and Tahlia Dufty, who both featured in last year’s B Grade team.

The Rams have also picked up defender Keeta Scown from the Southern Mallee Giants, which amalgamated with Jeparit-Rainbow in the offseason to form the Southern Mallee Thunder.

CoaChes

A Grade: Danielle Hanson

B Grade: Cheryl Sudholz

C Grade: Kate-Lyn Perkin

C Reserve: Brooklyn Fraser

17-and-under: Ebony Rintoule

15-and-under: Courtney Cameron and Tahlia Dufty

13-and-under: Cheryl Sudholz and Janelle Skiller

NetSetGo: Acacia Blake and Emma Eubergang

Other inclusions are goalie Simone Skratek and midcourt players Mayci Porter and Alana Bascombe.

Hanson said a finals campaign was unlikely for the team in 2024, but that she would be pleased if the Rams’ young players continued to develop.

“We only won a few games last year, and I think it will be similar again,” she said.

“We have a younger team again, so my main focus is making sure the girls enjoy playing and enjoy being at Natimuk.

“We’re looking to develop our younger players and bring them out of their shells. I want their input and for them to feel like valuable members of the team.

“We still have young Olivia Sudholz who stepped up into the A Grade team last year, and there’s still more development ahead for her.

“Myself and Emily Hateley, who are the senior players, are still learning ourselves, so hopefully we can all learn and grow together.”

Coach Danielle Hanson will guide a young A Grade team this season.

YoUr CLUB in 2024

On track for big season

BY ABBY WALTER

Wimmera league reigning premier Ararat will have big expectations on its shoulders this season.

Last season, the Rats were minor premiers before a semi-final loss, but it did not hold them back come the big dance, winning the premiership by 21 points.

This season, the Rats are ready to work hard again, with Tom Williamson and Tom Mills co-coaching the team.

Mills said pre-season was successful.

“Numbers have been up the whole time and players have been really keen to keep improving their craft and get better,” he said.

“We’ve had to adapt a fair bit with no available ovals to train on, so we’ve been training at the under-13s oval.

“But the players have been really good about it and just get to work.”

Mills said he was looking forward to getting out on the oval with the team and getting back to playing.

“It’s what everyone trains for, so everyone’s super excited for Good Friday,” he said.

“It will be nice to see how we

CoaChes

Seniors: Tom Mills and Tom Williamson

Reserves: James Hosking and Zac Louder

Under-17s: Jack Ganley

Under-14s: Jason Marsh and Shane Jenkins

Under-12s: To be confirmed

Under-9s: To be confirmed

execute game styles and plans that we have trained for all summer as well.”

After achieving the ultimate team success in 2023, Mills said the main takeaway from last season was nothing would come easy.

“You have to put in a lot of work, and I know our players are all well aware of that coming into this year,” he said.

“The thing I want to build on is our connection as a team and as a club.

“The more time we spend with each other and build good relationships, it makes for a much better team.”

Mills said some key outs for the

team were Tex Korewah, Liam Arnott, Ben Taylor and Dan Mendes who were retiring.

“They are all massive losses for the club,” he said.

“After going through pre-season and having those blokes missing, you quickly see younger players step up, which is really pleasing to see.

“Some key ins will be Sam Cronin from Tatyoon, who has been a junior previously from Ararat.

“Another is Xav Vearing who is returning to the club from a year off.

“Also, Ben McKenzie is joining us from the Northern Football League in Melbourne.”

Mills said the team would have a practice match between Good Friday and round one, with such a large break.

“Tom and I think the boys will be better for it, instead of having three weeks off,” he said.

“We would both like to wish all the Ararat football and netball teams all the best for the year ahead.”

After playing against Stawell on Good Friday, Ararat will host Horsham Demons in round one on April 20 at Alexandra Oval.

Senior playing-coach Tom Mills is excited about the season ahead.

Straight into it Ararat YoUr CLUB in 2024

BY ABBY WALTER

After being on the cusp of finals for the past two seasons, Ararat will look to come together as a strong unit this year to achieve senior netball success.

The Rats A Grade team finished in sixth position on the Wimmera league ladder in 2023 and 2022.

This season, Sally Noble has taken the reins from Tahnee Walker and Jess Taylor to coach.

Noble said she was looking forward to improving on last season and watching the team come together.

“We have a young team this season, so hopefully we can mould them into a really good team and improve on what they know coming up from juniors,” she said.

Noble said there were minimal changes to the team going into the season.

“The only change is we have two juniors who have come up from 17-and-under. They’re getting on really well with the other girls, which is great,” she said.

“Pre-season has gone re-

CoaChes

A Grade: Sally Noble

B Grade: Mon Scott

C Grade: Julia Harricks

C Reserve: To be confirmed

17-and-under: Amber Fry

15-and-under: Julia Harricks

13-and-under: To be confirmed

NetSetGo: To be confirmed

ally well. We have already chosen our teams, so we’re getting straight into it.”

Last season, Ararat won six games in A Grade, missing out on the top five by two wins.

Taylor led from the front, winning club best-and-fairest, followed by Georgie Peel as runner-up, Bella Westbrook as most consistent and Julia Harricks as most determined.

The team will now turn its attention to season 2024 to build on where it finished last season.

Ararat and Stawell will be the first to hit the court in season 2024 with their tra-

ditional Good Friday clash this week.

Noble said she wanted her team to be well prepared for the game, despite a further three-week gap before round one officially begins.

“All I am hoping for is that we get a good result in the first round,” she said.

“The players have been putting in the hard work at training, so it’s all gelling together.

“When you have some who have already played together and some coming in it can be hard, but they seem to be going really well, I am impressed.”

Noble said to keep the team match-fit in the break between Good Friday and round one, it would play a practice match against Bungaree.

Friday’s clash between Ararat and Stawell is considered the clubs’ round-nine appearances.

Ararat will host Horsham in round one on April 20.

ARARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL CLUB

Ararat RSL Rats would like to thank the following sponsors:

Ararat RSL, WFI, KFC, Western Quarries & Fosters. Ararat Rats encourage members to support those who support us.

FOSTER’S

Julia Harricks in action for Ararat last season. Harricks will coach C Grade and 15-and-under teams this season.

Longevity, growth, success

BY ABBY WALTER

Amilestone year could be the motivation Stawell senior footballers need to re-enter the competition as potential finals contenders this season.

The Warriors celebrate 150 years of football and netball in 2024, commemorating the longevity, growth and success of the club in that time.

In his sixth year as senior coach at the Warriors, Tom Eckel will again lead the black-and-red in the Wimmera league season.

Eckel said the team was ready to go and looking forward to the season, which begins on Friday against Ararat for the clubs’ traditional Good Friday clash.

“Preseason has been pretty good. We’ve had a majority of our senior team at training working pretty solid and everyone is as fit as they can be, so we can’t complain,” he said.

“Training pretty much rolled on from last year and we have picked up a few recruits in the off-season to strengthen the team, which is good.

“We’re ready to play some matches now.”

Eckel said the strength in Stawell’s recruiting this year was exciting.

“We wanted some experience and A-grade footballers,” he said.

“We have a couple of local friends, Cody Driscoll has come back and

CoaChes

Seniors: Tom Eckel

Reserves: Nick Considine and Marc Brilliant

Under-17s: Jarrod Illig

Under-14s: Andrew Dunn

Under-12s: Matthew Freeland

Under-9s: To be confirmed

Josh Fowkes from Navarre, they were playing out the road and will come to have a kick with us this year.

“We had a connection with Jacob Welsh, who is a former Geelong Football League player, so we’ll see how he goes, and we managed to get Mitch Taylor from Darwin through another connection and he is a very handy footballer.

“I’m excited to see how those guys add a bit of spark to the team.”

Eckel said what he was most excited about was seeing how his core of local players would improve and play this year.

“I am looking forward to seeing how our young players, who all have 20 or 30 senior games under their belts now, will perform and go to another level,” he said.

“There’s a good buzz at the club at the moment, supporters are up and

about because it’s exciting when you get new players.

“The competition is going to be pretty strong, so if I was a spectator, I would be pretty excited about this season.”

In 2023, Stawell was full of surprises, finishing sixth by percentage after a rough season start to defeat semi-finalists Dimboola twice during the season, and having quite close games against teams that finished lower on the ladder.

Eckel said the Warriors had a hitout against Donald during the preseason and would have another practice match against St Arnaud ahead of round one.

The Good Friday clash is Ararat and Stawell’s round-nine scheduled match.

Stawell will travel to Coughlin Park, Horsham to face the Saints in round one.

Official 150-year celebrations are scheduled for April 26 and 27, with a catch-up on Friday night at the Stawell Gift Hotel, followed by formal proceedings on Saturday when the club hosts Minyip-Murtoa at Central Park.

Proceedings include guest speakers, raffles, jumper auctions, reunions and welcoming back all former club presidents.

Stawell playing-coach Tom Eckel will continue in the role this season.

Uniting across all grades Stawell YoUr CLUB in 2024

BY ABBY WALTER

Stawell netballers are ready and raring to go for season 2024.

The A Grade Warriors finished their 2023 season as semi-finalists and are aiming again to be present at the pointy end of the season.

Jemma Clarkson and Rachel Wood are co-caching the team this season and have been impressed during pre-season by the numbers at training and the standard of netball.

Clarkson said players had made a commitment to work on their fitness and on individual skills in the off-season.

“They were super fit come tryouts and ready to go – everyone is keen to play,” she said.

“We are running an A and B Grade squad at the moment as selections were tricky and we want to make an informed decision.

“It’s a great problem to have and our B Grade coaches, mother-daughter duo Christine and Holly Graveson, have been supportive.

“I am looking forward to coaching with Rachel as well and having someone to bounce ideas off.”

Clarkson said the squad would be building on its performance last season.

“We finished in a strong position last year and played finals, so it would be nice to cement ourselves up there again,” she said.

“We’re aiming for finals, but we also want to make sure we are having fun, working together, learning along the way and growing as a team.”

Stawell and Ararat will set the tone of the season when they play on Good Friday for their traditional season opener.

Clarkson said the team would have a practice match against St Arnaud to keep players matchready between Good Friday and round one.

“We are fortunate to have strong senior teams this year so we will get good games when we play against each other at training, too,” she said.

Clarkson said across the club numbers were looking good.

“There were heaps of players trying out for 13-and-under and the coaches worked really hard to find a place for as many as possible with some able to play in our Mods division,” she said.

“It’s wonderful to have the numbers we do, and the junior coaches are feeling really good.

“We’re working at building the club together.

“In football and netball, we

CoaChes

A Grade: Jemma Clarkson and Rachel Wood

B Grade: Christine Graveson and Holly Graveson

C Grade: Jodie Hendy

C Reserve: Jodie Hendy

17-and-under: Toni Stewart

15-and-under: Lisa Considine and Jade Cross

13-and-under: Madi Freeland

NetSetGo: Naomi Hunter

have reintroduced our buddy system so all seniors are linked to a junior to support them, give them tips and watch them, as the juniors will also watch their senior buddy.

“During COVID we lost the social connection in the club and with our clubrooms being redone last year we were limited in what we could do, so we just want to bring everyone together this year.”

Stawell will host Ararat on Friday and then will travel to Coughlin Park in round one to face Horsham Saints.

Joint A Grade coach Jemma Clarkson in action last season.

Laharum’s Vanessa Lenehan was a standout in her team’s B Special win against Central Park.

Natimuk’s Tom Bourchier added to his team’s tally despite losing to Kalkee in A Special.

Celebration of top teams

BY ABBY WALTER

Horsham Lawn is Central Wimmera Tennis Association pennant champion for the 2023-24 season after a four-set victory against Central Park.

Despite the convincing margin, Central Park did not make it easy for Horsham Lawn to win, with only eight games the difference at the end of the day.

Graeme Wood and Tahlia Thompson were standouts for Horsham Lawn, winning three sets each.

Thompson, with doubles partner Gemma Walker, defeated Willow Sainsbury and Eve Wear in a tiebreak.

The other close set of the grand final was Cherie Wood defeating Adele Joseph in a tiebreak.

Wear and Reece Harman were most consistent for Central Park, winning two sets each.

In A Special, Kalkee defeated Natimuk by six sets, after the final four sets were not played.

It was a team effort by Kalkee, with Meaghan Pohlner, Anna Exell, Tyler Pidgeon and Daniel Rogers winning two sets each.

Doubles partners Tom Bourchier and Matthew Lee, and Cheryl Sudholz and Olivia Sudholz were the only players to win sets for Natimuk.

Natimuk did not make the sets played easy, with three games to tiebreak.

Richardson defeated Bourchier, Pidgeon and Rogers defeated Ash Webb and Carl Sudholz and Bourchier and Lee defeated Richardson and Luke Byrne, all on a tiebreak.

In A Grade, minor premier Central Park took home the grand-final win against St Michaels Red.

Shaun Alexander and Rod Shurdington won all three of their sets for the winning team.

It was a family affair for Central Park as Shurdington won a doubles game with son Frazer, 8-2, against Sam Clyne and Gavin Kelm, and Alexander won on a tiebreak with wife Erin against Bill Schmidt and Rebecca Pohlner.

Shaun Alexander played the other tiebreak game, with Roger Kotz against Schmidt and Brendan Ward.

Central Park’s Liam Dixon and Yvonne Thomas played well to defeat Oliver Sykes and Mia Geue on a tiebreak.

Dixon won another tiebreak with Yassasri Sumanapala against Sykes and Jayke Greig.

Emily Clough and Thomas also won a tiebreak against Lucy Butler and Geue, while Laharum’s Tony Sykes and Greig defeated Paul Harman and Sumanapala, and Lenehan and Stacey Peucker defeated Donna Harman and Fiona Jones.

Seniors

Pennant: Horsham Lawn 8-79 d Central Park 4-71.

A Special: Kalkee 8-72 d Natimuk 2-47.

A Grade: Central Park 8-83 d St Michaels Red 4-65.

B Special: Laharum 10-83 d Central Park 6-57.

Juniors

Open: Brimpaen 4-31 d Central Park 2-27.

Section 1 Boys: Horsham Lawn 6-36 d Central Park White 0-17.

Section 1 Girls: Central Park 4-30 d Horsham Lawn White 2-17.

Section 2 Boys: Horsham Lawn White 6-36 d

Homers 0-14.

Section 2 Girls: Horsham Lawn White 4-30 d Haven 2-22.

Section 3 Boys: Haven 3-26 d Central Park 3-22.

Section 3 Girls: Haven Orange 3-31 d Horsham

Lawn Gold 3-26.

Section 4 Boys: Horsham Lawn Red 3-26 d by

Central Park 3-26 –

In B Special, Laharum defeated Central Park by four sets.

Laharum’s standout players were Vanessa Lenehan, Tony Sykes and Reuben Launder who won four sets each.

All other sets were won by three or more games.

Juniors also played their grand finals at the weekend to conclude the 2023-24 Central Wimmera Tennis Association season.

Horsham Lawn’s Graeme Wood won his three sets in pennant’s premiership win.

FOCUS: Zeena Kelm won two of her three sets for St Michaels in A Grade competition against Central Park.

Pictures: COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

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Athletes nationals bound Mixed results

BY ABBY WALTER

AWimmera

contingent

of athletes will showcase their talents nationally next month.

Charlie Inkster will compete at the Australian Athletics Championships, from April 11 to 19 for an under-20 heptathlon.

A heptathlon involves 100-metre hurdles, high jump, shot put, 200 metres, long jump, javelin throw, and 800-metre run events.

Caleb Zanker is also competing in the championships for shot put and javelin.

Asha Meek will compete at the Australia Little Athletics Championships, from April 26 to 28, in an under-14 100-metre run and 200-metre hurdles.

Both championships will be at the SA Athletics Stadium in Adelaide.

Inkster said she enjoyed everything about her event, from running to competing with and cheering on her friends.

“I am looking forward to getting to know everyone and having a lot of fun,” she said.

“I have never been to the national championships before.

“To qualify you have to either meet the points standard or medal at the Victorian championships and I came third at Victorian champs.”

Inkster said she hoped to meet the points standard for the qualifier at nationals, which is 3600.

“I achieved 3470 at Victorian championships,” she said.

“I train twice a week with my coach and then do more in my own time.”

Meek said she enjoyed everything that came with athletics.

“I was excited to qualify for nationals and get to experience it,” she said.

“To qualify you have to get first, second, third or fourth at state level and then if someone pulls out the next place gets to go.

“I finished fourth in 100 metres and finished fifth in 200-metre hurdles.”

Meek said she wanted to achieve more personal bests at the national championships.

She said she also trained with her coach two days a week and put in time to train on her own.

“My favourite event in the heptathlon is either hurdles or the 800 metres.

ADVENTURE AWAITS

Greater Western Victoria Rebels under-16 boys’ team was successful in round one of the Coates Talent League against Bendigo Pioneers on Sunday.

The team kicked off the season to win by 17 points at Learmonth Reserve.

Horsham’s Ethan Worthy, Archie Elliot and Oliver Potter played in the team. Potter kicked one goal.

Round two of the under-16s competition will be played on April 3, when the Rebels will face the Dandenong Stingrays at Trevor Barker Beach Oval, Sandringham.

The under-18 boys team also began its season on Sunday and lost to Bendigo Pioneers by 18 points.

Horsham’s Sam Janetzki debuted and had five disposals. Connor Weidemann of Rupanyup kicked three goals, had 21 disposals and was named in the best.

Round two will see the Rebels face Geelong Falcons at GMHBA Stadium, Geelong tomorrow.

The under-18s girls’ team begins its season tomorrow against Geelong Falcons at GMHBA Stadium, as a preview to the boys’ game.

Greta Arnel and Poppy Peters of Horsham Demons, and Adelle Weidemann of Rupanyup are part of the under-18 girls’ squad.

The Rebels’ under-16 girls’ team has completed its season after games against Geelong Falcons and Bendigo Pioneers earlier this month.

Championship winners

Horsham City Bowling Club completed its Open Drawn Fours Championship at the weekend.

Kevin Clyne, Doug Mitchell, Kevin Gepp and Don Cook were the winners.

In the final over 15 ends they defeated Graham McDonald, Duncan Bottoms, Ed Warrick and Cheryl McDonald, 14 shots to 12.

Outdoorsman Expertise

Originating from the Lower North Coast NSW, then later moving to the heart of the Murrumbidgee River region, Darryl Buckman embodies the essence of an outdoorsman.

With a childhood spent amidst the splendor of nature, Darryl’s journey has been a tapestry woven with threads of adventure and exploration. From casting lines in the tranquil waters of the High Country of New South Wales to dipping his toes in the vast expanse of saltwater fishing, he has traversed the spectrum of angling experiences, honing his skills and embracing the thrill of the

As a purveyor of fine fishing equipment, Darryl’s passion for the sport knows no bounds. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, he proudly endorses Samaki Rods as the pinnacle of angling craftsmanship. In his store, these rods stand as a testament to his dedication to pairing anglers of all levels with the perfect gear to elevate their fishing pursuits to new heights.

For those seeking sanctuary amidst the gentle currents of the Wimmera River, Darryl offers sage advice on the most

serene fishing spots, beckoning enthusiasts to lose themselves in the tranquility of nature’s embrace. And when the call of the lakeside beckons, his recommendations for Rocklands and Taylors Lake serve as beacons of promise, guiding adventurers to waters teeming with opportunity and adventure.

But Darryl’s expertise extends beyond the realm of fishing. With a lifetime of camping experiences etched into his soul, he is a veritable font of wisdom for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to commune with nature. His endorsement of Darche campsite gear, Engel fridges, and Burke and Wills swags serves as a testament to his unwavering commitment to quality and comfort in the great outdoors.

Now, as Darryl sets his sights on bringing the wonders of his backyard to the Wimmera, he emerges as a must-see figure for all things fishing and camping. With his wealth of knowledge and boundless enthusiasm, he invites fellow adventurers to embark on a journey of discovery, where every cast of the line and crackle of the campfire heralds a new chapter in the great outdoors.

BIG STAGE: Asha Meek and Charlie Inkster are heading to national athletics championships in Adelaide in April. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

sport

Season heating up

BY DAVID BERRY

Volleyball

Horsham’s summer season competitions are heating up as teams jostle for ladder positions with the school holiday break just around the corner.

In A Grade, Rangers will sit back comfortably knowing they could not have done any better in the first phase of the competition, winning all four games and sitting on top undefeated, before their bye.

Their performances so far make tonight’s games all that more important as teams strive to keep in touch with the ladder-leader.

Phantoms and Hellenic Nuggets will do battle first up, followed by Heidelberg and Tsunami.

One of those four will jump to second as only one premiership point separates second to fifth on the ladder.

Phantoms will welcome back Shaun Bray for tonight’s game, with his experience central to the success of his team.

There will be a big watch on high leaping youngster Oscar Jackman after the key middle attacker injured an ankle in Ballarat last weekend, while setter Noah Werry is under a cloud with his fitness, too.

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In the second game, Heidelberg will need to settle their line up if they are to beat Tsunami.

Tyler Snowden and Jake Myerscough have been consistent so far, while Tsunami is starting to build following the inclusion of Mani Singh into the team.

In the women’s competition, Ball Busters’ bubble was burst last week, going down to Lakers despite the efforts of Kymberley Murray and Rej Smith.

Tonight, they will look to bounce back when they take on HTLC Ladybugs, who are a young team on the rise.

Thorns and Heidelberg should be a close game, with Janay Van Buuren and Rhianna Williams playing well for Thorns and Molly Carter and Scarlett Hand for Heidelberg.

Tamikah Dockrill’s Tsunami will look to keep in touch with the four when it fronts up against Laelah Robertson’s Phantoms.

Jess Warrick and Hannah Sherry have been in good touch for Tsunami, and Sophie Quick will be bursting with energy after playing well in division one at last weekend’s Ballarat tournament, while Greta Van is ever consistent.

In B Grade, Mark Radford’s Phantoms Blue scored a good win against Heidelberg last week and

With question marks over Phantoms’ two best players, Hellenic Nuggets will be favoured to get over the line.

will be confident against a young Stars team.

The game of the night will be the top-of-the-table clash between Maccas Malakas and HTLC Tigers.

Luke McCallum and John Turton have been in good touch for Maccas Malakas, while HTLC Tigers will be stronger for the inclusions of Tayte Wardle and Luke Johns.

Ballarat success

The Phantoms female teams are showing good form as they prepare for round one of the Victorian Volleyball League on April 6.

The premier team with Tamikah Dockrill on board, pushed a slick Heidelberg all the way in the gold-medal match, only to come up short to record successive preseason silver medals.

The division-three Black team, featuring Mercedes Arnott, went through the tournament undefeated in a positive showing.

Volleyball Horsham teams had mixed results – a division-one team finished fifth with one win and a division-three team finished fourth with two wins.

Volleyball Horsham will have a break during the school holidays and return with selection trials for CC’24 with this year’s event being hosted by Latrobe Valley in Traralgon, Churchill and Drouin.

FOR A CAUSE: Former Horsham man David Abud, front, concludes his ride from Melbourne to Horsham with his team, from left, Patrick So, Mat Faulkner, Luke Williams, Simon Vincett, Jim Nunn and Gavin Lombard. Mr Abud completed the ride on Monday to raise money and awareness for Australian Alzheimers Research Foundation. He has raised more than $35,000 in the past four years as he shines a light on the disease that has affected his father, Dr Rodney Abud, who used to practice in Horsham. Volleyball Horsham Monday night participants, families and friends made a donation and Volleyball Horsham matched the money raised. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Greyhound death at Horsham track

A greyhound died following a race at Horsham last week.

Three-year-old greyhound Sir Melville faltered approaching the home turn in race 11 at Horsham Greyhound Racing Club’s March 19 meeting.

A steward’s report said Sir Melville, trained by John Galea of Brookfield, underwent a post-race veterinary examination and was found to have a fractured right hock, and was then ‘humanely euthanised’. Stewards inspected the track approaching

the home turn and deemed it satisfactory for racing.

Coalition for the Protection of Greyhounds director Harry Rothenfluh said Sir Melville’s death highlighted inherent dangers of dog racing and questioned why Sir Melville was not eligible for ongoing vet treatment funded through Greyhound Racing Victoria’s Greyhound Recovery Initiative.

Greyhound Racing Victoria did not respond to requests for comment before print.

Warracknabeal

Closing date: ASAP

Requirements:

• Competency in MS Office, sound computer skills

• Excellent communication and able to work in a team

• Willingness to commit to work and study

• Evidence of COVID 19 certificates required

For

Horsham

Closing date: 9 April 2024

About you:

•

• Negotiation

• Strong

•

• Excellent

•

To obtain a copy of the Position Description, please email tamira.cullinan@skillinvest.com.au.

Aged Care Support Traineeship

Stawell

Closing date: ASAP

Requirements:

• Caring & patient individual with passion for industry

• Positive attitude and able to adapt to varying situations

• Physically fit and enjoy being active

•

• This role requires staff to be fully vaccinated against

For a

discussion, please contact

Water Operations Traineeship

Donald

Closing date: ASAP

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

For more information contact Daryl Eastwell on 0407 364 654.

Rivals ready for traditional clash

BY ABBY WALTER

North Park, Stawell will welcome the first of the 2024 Wimmera league action on Friday for a traditional seasonopener of netball and football.

Stawell and Ararat’s Good Friday clash is the clubs’ scheduled round-nine match.

Senior football reigning premier, Ararat, did not lose a home-and-away game last season and will aim to continue into this season with the same strength.

The team will be led by playing coaches Tom Mills and Tom Williamson, who both played in last season’s premiership team.

New signings to the team include midfielder Joe Thomson, defender Sam Cronin, all-rounder Ben McKenzie and Xav Vearing returns to the Rats.

Grand final under-21 best-on-ground winner Henry Shea will also be in the red-and-white and is set to build on last year’s impressive performances.

Club best-and-fairest Cody Lindsay will once again add depth to the team.

The Ararat combinations will test Stawell, however, the Warriors will have a few new tricks up their sleeves this season, too.

Ben Davis is returning to the black-and-red as a midfielder who can transition forward, Josh Linton will be a new, important onballer for the team and Jacob Welsh is also joining Stawell this

season. Mitchel Taylor will join the Warriors as a key position player and predominantly plays centre half-back.

Joint league best-and-fairest winner Tom Eckel will coach the team for his sixth year and will continue to play a key role across the oval.

In A Grade netball, the match-up might look different to the previous season.

While Ararat’s team is relatively the same as last year’s, Stawell is running with an A and B Grade squad as they work towards making final decisions about player placements.

Rachel Wood is co-coaching with Jemma Clarkson this season, and while a versatile player, is likely to be seen in the midfield.

The Warriors have welcomed some new recruits to their squad and opposition teams will be keen to see how they will pair up against some fresh faces.

Ararat will be led by Sally Noble who is looking forward to seeing some juniors step up into a senior role this season.

As a team who was on the cusp of finals last season, the players will be hungry for a good first win to get them off to a good start for the season.

Both clubs will ensure players stay on track after Good Friday, as they will not play round one until April 20.

Ararat is scheduled to host Horsham Demons and Stawell will play Horsham Saints at Coughlin Park for the official start of the season.

FRIENDLY: Kalimna Park, Dimboola and Horsham croquet club players, pictured, joined for a tournament of Aussie croquet at Kalimna Park greens last week. It was a chance to have a fun day of sport and all players were declared winners and presented a small gift for participating. Aussie croquet is one of many forms of croquet such as golf, association, ricochet and gateball. Kalimna Park is welcoming new players with games behind the Scout Hall, Horsham on Thursdays and Saturdays from 10am. Picture: ABBY WALTER

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Lawn legends

Tahlia Thompson and her Horsham Lawn team were victorious in Saturday’s Central Wimmera Tennis Association pennant grand final, defeating Central Park 8-79 to 4-71 at Central Park in Horsham. Thompson, who had one of the best sets-won percentages in the association this season, won all three of her sets in the grand final, 8-7, 8-6 and 8-2. Grand final wrap, page 64.