Leigh News DECEMBER 2025

The Inverleigh Progress Association

is the IPA?

The IPA is an organisation that is made up of local residents that want to contribute to making Inverleigh a great place to live.

does the IPA actually do?

publishes the Leigh News undertakes community projects ie Town Stone Entrances executing the Inverleigh Community Plan advocate for Inverleigh with government organisations meets with Council every quarter to discuss local issues maintains specific community assets ie Water Standpipe & Clock Tower

Feb 18 2026 7:30pm at the Inverleigh Public Hall. th

Inverleigh Community Plan 2027

The Inverleigh Community Planning process is due to commence again in 2027 and it needs heaps of local input from groups and individuals!

To find out more and be part of the process, come along to the first information session on Wednesday 11th Feb 2026 7:30pm @ Inverleigh Public Hall

The 2023 - 2027 ICP was instrumental in initiating and funding a number of local projects like the Community Christmas BBQs and Historical Society - River Walks Brochure.

Inverleigh Flower Show- a great success!

There are just not enough words to describe the success of the 2025 Inverleigh Flower Show. Held over 2 fabulous days, there was so much to see and do. Organisers Kloe Woods and Lyndal Brumby (pictured right) have worked hard to prepare this event with locals and visitors alike full of praise. Among the many comments I heard: "I'm coming again next year!" "I had no idea it would be this good" "This is great!"

Contributors of all ages entered not just flowers, but paintings etc. and there was a food swap stall and markets stalls outside, even a Tiny Home for sale. A big thank you to Vincent Petty for the photos. Great job Vincent. words by Peter Trevaskis

Victorian Cottage filled with homewares, furniture, gifts & more.

Each room differently decorated...everything from vintage chic charm to retro industrial inspiration

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Fusion Mineral & Milk Paint Stockist . Interior/Property Styling Service available.

Gift Vouchers available in store & online.

Fresh Flowers, Potted Plants & Local Delivery available

8 High Street , Inverleigh Ph 5265 1633

www.higheight .com.au

Open Wednesday to Sunday or by appointment

higheight high_eight

Golden Plains Shire Council is proud to support the local business community this festive season by encouraging residents, visitors and individuals passing through our Shire to prioritise shopping with local business. For more on Council’s Buy Local This Festive Season campaign, visit goldenplains.vic.gov.au

'Hutton Build - South West' is excited to call Colac home! We specialise in farm sheds, residential sheds, garages, and patios. We offer a diverse range of shed kits, including C section, RHS, and U Beam, ensuring you have the options to create your ideal structure. Beyond supplying the kit, we can also provide complete project management for your build, including:

- Building and Planning Permits

- Concrete slab

- Power installation

- Shed construction

Whilst we specialise in our own Hutton Build sheds, we also offer professional installation services for sheds manufactured by other companies and can also organise your planning and building permits.

At Hutton Build, you'll be working with a professional Building Practitioner with over 16 years of experience. We service Colac, Geelong, Ballarat, and surrounding areas.

Check us out on Facebook or visit our website at huttonbuild.com.au. Email: address sales@huttonbuild.com.au

Contact number: 0488 031 332

8 Leigh News

John Herbert Thornton.

Dad was a lucky man. His parents were beautiful people, the family was stable and happy, his brother and sisters were smart, independent and talented. He was surrounded with people in the community who nurtured him, provided opportunities and he repaid those debts to his communities. He was blessed to find friends and likeminded people through the journey of life and had many lifelong friends.

Born in Horsham on the 22nd of January 1944, Dad’s early years were shaped by the land and automation of farming, initially in the dry spaces of the Little Desert near Goroke. From there, his journey took him to Dereel, where he began school at Napoleons Primary, later home-schooled by his mother, and eventually to Inverleigh in 1952—a move marked by the unforgettable image of bogged trucks in a very wet year. (such contrast to the current dry autumn)

Dad’s schooling continued at Inverleigh Primary and then Geelong College. While academics weren’t always his focus, he found his strengths elsewhere—in cadets, in the House of Guilds, and in the workshop. He was a skilled woodturner even then, crafting drumsticks for the school band.

He once broke his leg in a skirmish on the school bus—an injury that led to three months in hospital, a testament to the resilience he would carry throughout his life.

In 1961, he began his apprenticeship as a fitter and turner with International Harvester, where he would spend over two decades. His talent and dedication saw him rise through the ranks, eventually becoming a supervisor and later a foreman. His time in the USA in the late 1960s, as part of a Victorian Overseas Foundation Scholarship, was a highlight—he returned with new skills, new ideas, and a broader view of the world.

In 1972, he married Lu, and together they built a life—and a home—on a hill in Ceres, with sweeping views of the You Yangs. He designed the house himself and supervised its construction, moving in just weeks before Michael was born.

Dad reduced that margin for error later in life. Subsequently the preparation for most social or even matrimonial events stage at Lullote completed hours or maybe just minutes before guests or brides appeared. We remember a man of vision, of action. He planted trees, built gardens, and taught us all the value of hard work and careful planning. He was a proud member of the CFA, first in Inverleigh and later in Barrabool, and he gave his time generously to the community—as a school councillor, a bowls club volunteer, and a founding member of the Leigh

Districts Landcare group.

In 1978, he took the family on a three-month journey around Australia in an orange VW Kombi, with Victoria along for the ride before she was even born. It was one of the happiest times of his life—camping under the stars, exploring the country, and sharing his love of the land with his family.

After the closure of International Harvested in 1982, he worked with Anco Seed and Turf, gaining knowledge that would later help him build the Inverleigh Bowls green. In 1986, the family moved to Inverleigh, where he continued to shape the land—planting oaks from the Royal Botanic Gardens, moving sheds, and preparing for the weddings of his children.

Dad was a teacher in the truest sense—not through lectures, but through example, repetition and practice. He taught us how to build, how to fix, how to think things through.

Dad was also a student and loved to learn new skills, study technical literature and observe and work alongside master trades people. Some of those new skills included bricklaying, electric fencing, French polishing, leadlight, and wood carving. His hands were always busy, his mind always curious.

I remember his mechanical aptitude. I would call him share some basic information about a mechanical issue I was experiencing in my cars, and he would always have a diagnosis. He helped me fix my cars and even my uni friends’ car when we preferred to spend our money on VB than replacing missing paint and panels.

In 1992, he suffered a brain aneurism, and though it changed his life, it never changed his spirit. He faced the challenges that followed with courage and determination. He remained active in the CFA, continued his work with Landcare, but everything was harder and this frustrated Dad.

In recent years, his health declined, and in October 2024, he moved into care at Estia Bannockburn, where he was looked after with kindness until his passing on May 8th, 2025.

Dad was a master builder—not just of homes and sheds, but of community, of family, of memories. He leaves behind a legacy of love, beautiful spaces and places, of hard work, of quiet strength. He taught my brother and sister to be capable, to be kind, and to always look to the horizon.

Tony Thornton

NEW 2026 - 2030 Inverleigh Community Plan

The Inverleigh Community Plan 2026 - 2030 will be facilitated by members of the Inverleigh Progress Association and will require the involvement of the Inverleigh Community. There will be a number of opportunities for the Community to be involved throughout the process.

The Inverleigh Community Plan is a written document that identifies our vision for the future and the priorities and actions we have identified to achieve this vision.

The Community Plan will be a guide for future projects and activities over the next four years. Achievement of the priorities identified within the plan will require ongoing community support.

The Community Plan can be used to seek support from a range of organisations and government bodies for the implementation of the actions identified within the plan. It is a community document and its implementation will be driven by our local Inverleigh residents.

Initial Community Workshop

The Inverleigh Community Plan development will commence with a community workshop session on: Wednesday 11 Feb 2026 th 7:30pm @ Inverleigh Public Hall

Consultation & Draft Plan

Once a draft is ready, the Inverleigh Progress Association will host consultation sessions and will present the draft for community feedback

Collate Feedback

Feedback from the consultation will be reviewed and the draft amended where required There may need to be further community consultation

Finalise Plan

The Inverleigh Community Plan once finalised will be submitted to the Golden Plains Shire Council and made available on the Inverleigh Progress Association website

you

An update on Harry Coleman's Bowling Career

Harry Coleman is a young Bowler living in Inverleigh and has been playing Lawn Bowls virtually all his walking life. He is the eldest son of Mark & Suzy Coleman and has a younger sister Kelsey and a younger brother Dallas.

Harry recently competed in the Australian U18 Bowls Championships in Devonport, Tasmania from 10th until 13th November 2025.

This was Harry’s first time representing Victoria at the national event and at "15 years of age". He is one of ten young bowlers selected to represent the “Big V”, this following on from his debut for Victoria at the U18 Tri series at Sunbury vs QLD and NSW in August 2025.

his bowls and is relishing the opportunity to work with the highly esteemed coaches at Deer Park Youth Bowls Academy, Mark Casey OAM, Nathan Bush and Chris Green.

Harry competed in the Boy’s Fours and the Boy’s Triples events. Competing against the best U18 bowlers from across Australia, the boys showed strong teamwork, resilience and outstanding bowling skills throughout the week. The Boys Fours won the "gold medal" and the Boys Triples won a "bronze medal". The Victorian side came second in overall results for the championships to NSW and brought home the "silver medal" also.

Harry continues to achieve outstanding results in his bowls in both the "U18" and "Open" competitions. Harry is working hard to improve

Harry is currently playing in the Deer Park Premier League side in the Melbourne Metropolitan Premier League Competition. He will also be heading to Moama Bowls Club for the "Ultimate Bowls Championships" (UBC) in the first week of Decemberthis year. He was invited to be part of the team -"Melbourne Falcons". The UBC is the most lucrative bowls event in the world, and Harry is looking forward to the opportunity to compete in a fast paced pairs format against the top adult bowlers from across the country and overseas.

If you would like to follow in Harry's footsteps, come along to the Inverleigh Bowls Club, Fridays from 4:30 when we have Bowls Practice. You will be made very welcome, come and have a Bowl with friendly and encouraging people who will show you how it's all done. We have bowls of all sizes for you to "Try before you buy" or make a commitment to purchase your own set. We also enjoy fun together with "Pizza and Bingo nights" or "Fish and Chips" after our home games. You will be very welcome.

Story Suzy Coleman & Peter Trevaskis.

Harry Coleman

Photo by: Naomi Cartwright.

BOOK BAZAAR

9.00am – 4.00pm

The Inverleigh Public Hall Committee and Inverleigh Progress Association Invites Inverleigh & District Communities to

Australia Day 2026

Community Breakfast

At the Public Hall from 8am

Monday January 26th

• “Print Media Over Time” display by Inverleigh Historical Society

Hundreds of Novels, Biographies/Memoirs and Childrens books.

*Soft covers $2/Hard Covers $3

*Childrens Books from 20 cent

Enquiries: Anne -Maree 0417 512240

Proceeds towards refurbishing of Inverleigh Public Hall

• Acknowledgements and National Anthem 9.45am

• Activities for the Children

A donation to help cover costs appreciated

Shelford Duck Race and Family Fun Day Sunday 22nd February 11am - 4pm Duck Race starts @ 3pm Shelford Recreation Reserve

Rememberance Day 2025

A large crowd attended this years ceremonies which was great to see. There were several inportant parts of the services, which were held at the Monuments and at the RSL Building.

Special guests were present, including Caplain Carla Evans who officiated at both parts of the service's with opening and closing prayers at the monuments as well as a prayer of dedication at the Pathway Dedication Ceremony. Guest Speaker was 'The Hon. Dan Tehan MP Member for Wannon'. A very special presentation by Kevin Freeman of 'The Soldiers Prayer Book' which also included the "Gospel of St John", which was of special significance to him personally. 'The Last Post' and 'The Rouse' played by a bugler also provided a moment of special signicance.

The second part of the ceremonies was 'the Pathway Dedication Ceremony', held on site at the Inverleigh R.S.L. Clubrooms. Firstly, the presentation of 'New National Flags of Australia and New Zealand' by The Hon. Dan Tehan MP on behalf of the commonwealth of Australia and Captain Adam Magnussen, Army Officer, Representing the New Zealand Government. Special speakers for the day were: Mr. Robert Wright, researcher and author of the Book 'Inverleigh & District Soldiers in the great War 1914-1918 individual Storiesof Service & Sacrifice'. Mr Dylan Brown read a letter from his Grandfather, Signaller Ian Lansdell. (P.Trevaskis Editor).

JOIN US FOR OUR 2025

INVERLEIGH COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS CAROLS

SATURDAY

6.00PM

FEATURING

THE GEELONG CONCERT BAND

Lions Vice District Governor

Shirley Menz presents John MacPherson with his award.

Inverleigh – Leigh Valley Lions past president John MacPherson was presented with the prestigious Melvin Jones award on 10 September recognising his 34 years service to the community.

John’s achievements during his several terms as president & treasurer included implementing & organizing a well attended men’s health forum which set the scene for further such forums in other clubs.

Wednesday 22nd of October 2025

O"icial opening of upgrades to the Inverleigh Public Hall Through Tiny Towns Fund

The Inverleigh community has benefited from important upgrades to the Inverleigh Public Hall, thanks to support from the Allan Labor Government’s Tiny Towns Fund Member for Eureka Michaela Settle today joined members of the Inverleigh Hall Committee and Golden Plains Shire Council to celebrate the project, which has seen the much-loved hall improved to better serve the local community for years to come.

The Inverleigh Public Hall upgrade is being supported through the Tiny Towns Fund, which provides grants of between $5,000 and $50,000 to rural and regional communities with populations under 5,000. The program funds small but meaningful projects that enhance local facilities, create community connection and improve liveability across regional Victoria.

The upgrades to the Inverleigh Public Hall include the addition of a new storage shed, which will free up valuable space inside the hall and allow the community to make better use of the facility for events and activities. The project has been driven by the dedication of the Hall Committee and local volunteers. Hall Committee’s President Bruce McDonald and committee member Christine Windle commitment and hard work have been instrumental in bringing the upgrades to life.

The project highlights what can be achieved when government and community work together listening, planning and putting in the eQort to deliver outcomes that matter locally. More than just an upgrade to a building, the Inverleigh Public Hall project strengthens community connections, creates opportunities and celebrates the pride residents have in their town.

The Tiny Towns Fund is part of the Allan Labor Government’s $25 million Our Regions: Living Local Fund, supporting projects that make regional communities even better places to live, work and visit. For more information on the Tiny Towns Fund, visit rdv.vic.gov.au/tiny-towns-fund

Quotes attributable to Member for Member for Eureka Michaela Settle

“Tiny Towns is about supporting the projects that make a real di?erence to people’s everyday lives. It’s about listening to communities and backing their priorities, because every small town has its own story, its own heritage and its own identity and that’s worth investing in,”

16 Leigh News

1855 Survey map

November 2025 Calendar article

Map # 1629633, (held in SLV), is the survey report submitted by Mr. Andrew James Skene in1855, detailing the establishment of allotments, for the township, in an area known as “Lawsons on the Leigh”, (Inverleigh). While this may seem like a straightforward and basic, there is much more to it.

Surveying land during those early times, was a formidable task. Surveyors faced harsh and unfamiliar environments, navigated through unknown and sometimes challenging landscapes, and endured long stretches of isolation—not just from loved ones, but from other human contact. Provisions would have been simple and only the essentials taken on these trips. It was common for these men to spend over a year away at a time.

1855 Survey Map

Mr. Skene, came to Melbourne in 1839, from Scotland, to take on the task of surveying this new land. Armed with only a basic, fundamental training. It soon became evident that Mr. Skene disciplined and methodical, exhibited an energetic approach to surveying and soon developed a keen aptitude for the task.

He chose to use the theodolite and not the compass as his preferred method for surveying. Mr. Skene quickly established that the accuracy and reliability of the theodolite as far superior to the compass for surveying. The reason being is the theodolite measures the angles between designated visible points on both the horizontal and vertical planes. So, it enabled Mr. Skene to understand the topography of an area, bit like a rudimentary 3D image. This meant he positioned allotments accordingly for the best growth of towns. The theodolite is still a vital instrument used today.

Mr. Skene travelled considerable areas of the colony, his; love of study and keen observation skills resulted in remarkably detailed maps. He was a leader amongst his peers and appointed head of the Geelong survey office in 1853.

If you look closely at the map, the details, ‘rich soil of the flats, between the junction of the two rivers, which were free from timber’ being enriched by the possibility of extreme winter floods. He noted soil

Photo: SLV:ID 1629633

conditions in relation to agriculture. Mr. Skene also highlighted where there was good building stone, and firewood as well as timber suitable for building purposes, detailing in which direction and at what distances.

Looking at Mr. Skenes map of the half acre allotments sold in1855, walking around the township today, you can appreciate his vision.

•Cambridge Street (I): Samuel Newman acquired the Horseshoe Inn, Lots 1–3.

•High Street (II): J. McKinnon (Lots 1 & 2), D. McNaughton (Lot 3), A. Campbell (Lots 4 &5), A. McDonald (Lot 6), M. Harrison (Lots 7 & 8), C. Swanston (Lots 9 & 10).

•High Street (VII): H. Eyre (Lots 1 & 2), J. Flemming (Lots 3–5), S. Bennallack (Lots 6–8), A.McDonald (Lots 9 & 10).

•Napier Street (III): A. McDonald (Lots 1 & 3), C. Rowland (Lot 2), T. Splatt (Lots 7 & 8), C.Swanston (Lot 9), A. Campbell (Lot 10).

•Napier Street (IV): A. McDonald (Lot 1), P. McDonald (Lots 3 & 4), G. Marsh (Lot 5), W.Barnard (Lot 6), C. Rowland (Lot 7), D. Williamson (Lots 8–10).

•Napier Street (VIII): C. Swanston (Lots 7–10).

Notably, no lots sold in Cambridge Street (VI) or High Street (V).

One hundred and seventy years later, Inverleigh has expanded, but the original allotments remain, preserving a tangible link to the founding families and its heritage.

J Amos, IHS

December 2025 Calendar article

Seasons Greetings from the Inverleigh Historical Society December 2025

This cheerful Christmas Wreath of banksias and foliage plants is typical of the lovely flowers available from Luvleigh Estate Flower Farm. If you have been the lucky recipient of a bunch or have appreciated the availability of purchasing a locally grown gift at the farmgate stall in Railway street.

Commenced in 2000 by Leon and Sue Boccaccini with an interest in proteas and banksias, they supplied wholesale to florists and attended weekend markets. The farm plantings are continually expanding with foliage plants such as Geraldton Wax and leucadendron with a new plant taking about four years to reach usable flowering.

Seasons Greetings Photo: Luvleigh Estate

rabbits are a continual pest, and the weather is a continual factor.

Their daughter Holly joined them six years ago and they expanded with the Farmgate shop and lots of pre-orders and weddings. When asked what she liked about flowers Holly answered that she just loves the colours. Her favorite flower is the banksia menziesii which has a large flower with a purple blush.

As with all the horticulture in the township,

meet in the Inverleigh Public Hall 0n the 4th Wednesday of each Month @ 2pm (Except December & January) VISITORS ARE ALWAYS WELCOME

The 2026 calendar is now available from Liz McDonald 0417066433 or at Sonny Wholefoods café for $15, with a range of local images all awaiting stories in coming Leigh News.

The Inverleigh Historical Society wishes everyone a safe and peaceful New Year. Our meetings recommence on 25 February, 2026, at 2pm at the Inverleigh Public Hall.

The Inverleigh Historical Society was formed in 2004. It operates under the auspices of the Inverleigh Mechanics Institute and Public Hall Committee.

Our Aims are to collect and preserve items of local historic interest and to promote research and interest in local history.

We welcome all donations to our collection or the opportunity to copy material. We are most grateful to the many people who have kept the Historical Society in mind as they sorted through their own collections. We undertake many interesting projects and have enjoyable meetings, which you are welcome to attend.

Convenor - Bronwyn Price. Secretary - Christine Windle. 0403 267 286, inverleighhistsoc@gmail.com

INVERLEIGH PRIMARY SCHOOL

In STEM this year, our F-2 students have explored:

�� Space & the Solar System

-Differences between Earth and space (gravity, temperature, and no atmosphere).

-Learning the names and features of the planets.

-Why the moon looks like it changes shape.

�� Day, Night & the Stars

-Why we have day and night

-How constellations have been used for navigation, storytelling, and farming.

-Earth has different layers, each with its own unique fact!

While our Grade 3-6's have looked at:

�� Earth Science & Engineering

-How earthquakes happen, how we track them, and how this helps keep us safe

-How landforms are made

-Exploring Earth’s layers and the materials that make them up.

�� Design Thinking

-Students used the Design Thinking process (empathize, define, ideate, prototype, test , repeat) to solve real-world challenges!

SPINY RICE FLOWER CONSERVATION PROJECT

The volunteer groups will be engaged to assist with seed collection with the guidance of a grassland ecologist, Dr Debbie Reynolds. Collected seed will be donated to the Pimelea spinescens seed orchard whereby the seed bank’s population and diversity can be increased, allowing the potential for further growing the populations at the site or at other secure locations as part of future projects. As local community engagement in the project will be important for management of this specific site, so too will wider engagement increase awareness of P. spinescens as a species and threatened flora communities more broadly.

Saturday 13th December 2025. 10am- 12pm Rokewood Shelford Rd, Shelford (Road reserve adjacent to property number #703)

Field day shall conclude with a tour of Rokewood Cemetery, one of the best places in western Victoria to see a range of native grassland flowers.

RSVP Wednesday 10th December.

Final Message from Peter Trevaskis - Leigh News Editor

The time has come for me to say a final goodbye as Editor of this magazine. I had no idea in August 2015, shortly after retiring from full time employment, that it would be 10 plus years and 112 editions to have this honour.

In that time I have personally written about 5 articles at most, with each edition receiving contributions which just happened to arrived each month by email, text message and of course, hand written on paper. It was my pleasure to compile all that was provided into an enjoyable read for members of our local community. Some contributions came from as far away as Great Britian and some from my immediate neighbours down the street.

I have met some colourful characters from the district, as well as some truly wonderful people with great community spirit. I must apologize for not remembering your names if I had met you personally somewhere in the district, but thats where words like "mate", "cobber' and "darling" come in handy.

I will still be around for some time for sure, and still helping out where ever I can.

I wish Julia Kennedy every success as the new editor. She is going to be a breath of fresh air to The Leigh News. It has been ongoing since about 1977, and a new direction under Julia's leadership is something very valuable for our local community. Please continue to be as user friendly as you have been to me and that being the case, all will be well.

I have also passed leadership of Inverleigh Seniors to others as well, but I will be still part of this great group of people.

You may have heard also that I am stepping back for heath reasons and that is true. Like a lot of men my age, prostate health has been a problem I have lived with for more than 20 years.

I must encourage all men over 50 to get checked by your Doctor regularly, because the medical knowledge and procedures continue to advance as they have done in the time I have been under medical care, and with out that I may have had to step back a lot sooner.

Thank you all for the kind words many have shared with me just recently. I look forward to being able to cross paths with so many of you in the future.

A special Christmas Greeting to you all too. As a christian, the birth of Jesus is very important to me, along with his death celebrated at Easter. Please consider carefully all that Jesus has done for all of mankind and for what he will do in the very near future too, when He once again will return to this earth. Put your life right with him now before it is too late.

God bless you all, kindest regards, Peter Trevaskis.

Pimelea Netted

Time: 10am to 12noon 1st, 15th & 29th of April 2025 and continuing every two weeks

Time: 10am to 12noon commencing 4th Feb-

BANNOCKBURN INCLUSIVE

Bannockburn & District

Men’s Shed 2B Pope St Bannockburn (rear of Shire offices) Tuesdays & Thursdays 9 till 4 pm

Well equiped workshop & meeting room with pool tables. Prospective members are welcome to drop in for a cuppa & look around. Contact Secretary Geoff Wild 0407 835 731 or President Syd McConachy 0408 525 905.

Vic Park Inverleigh Scrap Metal Bin.

Victoria Park volunteers use the Metal Skip Bin to help fund the upkeep of the park.

• Absolutely NO non metal items.

• NO wire, rubber, plastic, wood, bags or e-waste,

• No tyres, batteries, gas cylinders.

• If wood, rubber, plastic etc are attached to your metal, remove it before bringing the metal to Vic Park.

• Never fill the bin over the water line. If the "Bin is Full" sign is up, place metal items at the stump or come back another day.

Golden Plains Soccer Club Kicks Off for a Promising 2025 Season!

There’s a real buzz at Golden Plains Soccer Club this year, with 17 teams, from Under 7s to our Women’s and two Senior Men’s teams. The season began on Sunday 27th April and will run through until October.

For more information please contact: info@goldenplainssc.com.au

22 Leigh News Inverleigh Nature Conservation Reserve

Preserving and enjoying a precious remnant of our original landscape

As local residents, we can count ourselves very lucky to have two-thirds of Victoria’s surviving native grassy woodlands right on our doorstep. Before European settlement, grassy woodlands covered much of south-east Australia and even small areas could contain many different species of flora and fauna.

Incredibly, our Nature Conservation Reserve contains about 66% of what survives within our state borders. The rest has been converted into farmland or residential estates.

That gives us the privilege and pleasure of being able to wander through parts of our Reserve and picture a little of what the landscape looked like to members of the local indigenous population for thousands of years. If we walk along Old Shelford Track or Old Teesdale Track, we’re following routes taken by new arrivals from Europe and China on their way to and from the diggings around Ballarat during the gold rush.

New housing on two sides of the Reserve means there are new families moving into the area who can easily walk into the Reserve and see lots of birds and native animals when they’re easiest to spot: early in the morning and at dusk. If we get the right conditions in spring, they may also spot some striking wildflowers, including rare orchids.

Unfortunately, though, larger and larger parts of the Reserve are losing their original character as they get ploughed up by four-wheel-drives and dirt bikes. Sections of the main tracks have been deeply rutted and potholed for years, but since the COVID lockdowns there has been a massive increase in the damage done between those main routes.

The whole nature of grassy woodlands is that large trees are fairly widely spaced, letting enough light in for native grasses and wildflowers to grow between them. Most of the soil in the Reserve is sandy, so the grasses have shallow roots and are easily torn out. Many clearings between the trees are now simply sandpits with deep corrugations formed by offroad driving and riding.

The good news is that a lot of these areas will naturally regenerate over time, but only if the traffic through them stops.

There are gates within the Reserve to block access to certain parts of the tracks, but they are often broken down or driven around.

It is legal for licensed drivers to use their licensed vehicles on the main tracks inside the Reserve, but a lot of what goes on is against the law. Our greater concern, however, is that it is thoughtlessly destructive. The (mainly) young people who are doing the damage haven’t seen the changes over time, so they may not realise what’s being lost. They may also see the rubbish people sometimes dump in the bush, which an under-resourced Parks Victoria are very slow to remove, and feel that reflects a community attitude that the Reserve is of low value.

It’s up to all of us to show that we care about this precious remnant of our original landscape and that we can enjoy it without degrading it. If you drive or ride in the Reserve yourself, please stick to the main tracks. If you have friends or relatives who use vehicles in there, encourage them to limit their driving and riding to those tracks as well. There is no shortage of deep ruts and big bumps to test their skills on those main routes without any need to plough up fresh areas.

Jim Richardson

'Exhibition of Tiny Art' is coming.......

The Exhibition of Tiny Art is a Community Project based in Golden Plains Shire and being held in Inverleigh over the next three years.

Focusing on all things tiny, we aim to create a unique space in the Arts and Cultural landscape that is accessible for many members of the community and brings a sense of playfulness and wonder.

We are working towards an Exhibition (May 15th - 17th, 2026) with a range of workshops taking place in the lead up to this ‘tiny’ event!

We have already hosted a series of workshops in November, with our Mini Watercolour workshop, with Aphra Millis booking out on the first day!

We have other workshops coming up at the local primary school with Geelong Artist, Kiri Tawhai, and others in the New Year at the Golden Plains Youth Hub and Inverleigh Town Hall.

Arts events play an important role in rural areas, providing meaningful opportunities for people to engage in building connec-

tion in the community.

This initiative will bring a number of visitors to the town and have a positive impact to the region. We are hoping over the next three years that it grows into a local cultural event.

The Exhibition of Tiny Art project is made possible by a group of amazing volunteers, local artists, the Berrybank Windfarm Grant, Golden Plains Council and the BOP Arts Co-op. instagram.com/tinyartinverleigh

We are calling for Expressions of Interest from Artists who would like to be part of this community event.

We are seeking art in three categories:

- Teeny-Tiny: Artworks measuring under 6cm x 6cm x 6cm

- Tiny: Artworks measuring under 11cm x 11cm x 11c

- Miniatures: (i.e. model houses, libraries, shop fronts) Can be above 11cm x 11cm x 11cm.

Follow along on instagram.com/tinyartinverleigh for more info & at https://www.theboparts.com.au/the-exhibition-of-tiny-art.

Bec Wilson

24 Leigh News Surfcoast Taxis

Our fleet of vehicles are growing to all late models and we are now covering an extended area including: Winchelsea, Colac, Bannockburn, Inverleigh, Great Ocean Road and Geelong. We have a fleet of 10 seater Maxi Vans, all with Capacity to carry wheelchairs.

Surfcoast Taxis Pty. Ltd.

All Bookings: 0408 325 992

Fax: 5267 2699

Email: bannotaxis@gmail.com (Admin or Stan 0429 672 888)

66A Batson Street, Winchelsea, 3241.

provider number 4050001044

DAN TEHAN

FEDERAL MEMBER FOR WANNON

My office can assist you with information about Federal Government services including:

Centrelink

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

Pensions and My Aged Care

Medicare

Australian Taxation Office (ATO)

Veterans’ Affairs

Immigration, citizenship and passports

Australia Post

Telecommunications (broadband and mobile coverage)

Dan Listens, Dan Cares, Dan Delivers!

Hamilton: 190 Gray Street, Hamilton VIC 3300

Warrnambool: 158 Koroit Street, Warrnambool VIC 3280 1300 131 692 dan.tehan.mp@aph.gov.au

dantehan.com.au DanTehanWannon dantehan

Authorised by Dan Tehan MP, Liberal, 190 Gray St, Hamilton VIC 3300.

26 Leigh News

Contact Helen Collins on 0418 340 387 for all your Interior Design & Styling needs and she will work with you to create beautiful & functional spaces

Thanks to:

Ross & Caroline Wilson of Shelford and Mora Leach of Inverleigh for faithfully supplying the monthly rainfall figures. Your efforts are very much appreciated.

Golden Pens - Write side up

G’Day from the penners for the last time this year, it’s hard to believe another year has flown by. The penners are looking forward to 2026 with a big project under way. Thanks to the group receiving a Community Strengthening Grant from the Golden Plains Council, we will be producing another anthology. This will be number 4, and we are going to put every effort into this one to make it the best yet. More info to come next year.

Our poem for this month is from Gordon Vanbeck, a lovely story, tinged with some sadness but with a happy ending. We hope you enjoy it.

Our group will resume next January after a small break and we will be bringing you lots more poetry throughout the year. We can be contacted via our email goldenpens4@gmail.com so don’t be shy and drop us a line if you are enjoying our work. Or better still come and see us in person, we welcome all newcomers.

The Golden Pens – Write Side Up group wishes every reader a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year. Regards Wendy.

It’s been a Year

A year. Hard to believe it’s been that long. The house isn’t quiet. There’s noise again, different noise, Still listen for you sometimes at night. Around about dinner time.

That bark you gave. The one that said Feed me! Feed me now!

Found your old collar the other day, looking for something else,

Stood there holding it longer than I should, The tag still had dirt on it from that day, You decided it was time to dig.

I catches me off guard sometimes, I move a chair and there’s your favourite toy, Or half asleep in front of the TV, I reach down to where you used to sleep to give you a pat.

You were a good dog. The best Even when you were a pain, Especially when you’d forget where you were and have a pee, Anyway, you were the best…

So, there’s these puppies now, Brother and sister, and oh how they fight! They don’t forget where they are, they just don’t care! Chewing the chairs and munching on the rugs.

It took months, but now they’ve slowed, Sleeping at night with their heads on our feet, They’re nothing like you, but when I watch them play, I kind of think. Maybe that’s okay.

28 Leigh News POLICE REPORT FOR NOVEMBER &

Hello all,

Where has the year gone, Christmas is fast approaching and the weather is starting to improve. With Summer also comes the gazetted fire danger period which I believe is starting 24th November 2025. If you are unsure what the fire danger period means a simple internet search under the CFA site or "a can I can’t I" search brings up the rules in relation to fires and other activities like welding, grinding etc. If a fire occurs as a result of doing any of the activities prohibited/restricted during the fire danger period you could be the subject to a police interview and Magistrates Court charges.

Shortly the Beyond the Valley music festival will be occurring and from experiences in the past I again recommend avoiding being on the Hamilton Highway between Inverleigh and Cressy on the opening day being the 28/12/25 and the closing day the 1/1/26 if you can. The sheer volume of vehicles trying to get into and out of the festival combined with holiday makers and the normal traffic has resulted in the past to long delays and several accidents on the Hamilton Highway, Rokewood-Shelford road and the Cressy-Shelford Road.

We recently had a dumped stolen car set on fire at the twin bridges on the Inverleigh-Teesdale road in the early hours of the morning. If anyone saw the offenders dumping the vehicle or setting it on fire please call the station or crime stoppers with any information.

Just recently I have been observing a couple of kids getting about town on those electric kit bikes and some on electric scooters. One of the kids even doing monos up and down and across the Hamilton highway in a high school uniform repeatedly while I had

a speeding driver intercepted nearby. Now most parents have removed access to these bikes from their children but for some unknown reason there are a couple of parents permitting their kids to still use these devices and roam around the town. Children under 16 cannot ride electric scooters on roads/paths at all and those electric kit bikes are motor bikes laws by definition and cannot be ridden by anyone legally.

Please take care on the roads over the holiday period, just recently over the Melbourne Cup long weekend I found and booked around 66 drivers travelling through our area mainly holiday makers. Some were issued suspended/disqualified infringements due to the excessive speeds they were travelling. There will also be a lot of caravans, harvesters, tractors and other machinery also on the roads over the holiday period so there will be times where patience and courtesy is required.

I would like to thank Peter Trevaskis for his support during his time as editor of the Leigh News. For those who enjoy the article you must know I was very reluctant to do an article at first when Peter reached out as I was concerned that I may say something that would get me in trouble with my superiors. So far so good as that has not happened. The article has allowed me to inform residents of some of my activities and events I am getting called to and hopefully informed you of some things to be aware of occurring in the area. It has also provided me with feedback and information about some of the incidents Police are investigating so thanks again Peter for persisting in encouraging me to do the article.

Keep safe, Chris.

The website for the: Inverleigh Historical Society has been revitalized and is now online.

Our contacts details are: inverleighhistsoc@gmail.com Facebook: Inverleigh Historical Society

The Secretary Inverleigh Historical Society C/O Inverleigh Post Office 3321

meet in the Inverleigh Public Hall 0n the 4th Wednesday of each Month @ 2pm (Except December & January) VISITORS ARE ALWAYS WELCOME Convenor - Bronwyn Price. Secretary - Christine Windle. 0403 267 286, inverleighhistsoc@gmail.com

The Inverleigh Historical Society was formed in 2003. The initial aims to preserve and share local history soon grew to include researching, storytelling, publishing, and collecting history as it is happening. We welcome donations, or the opportunity to copy, images, documents, family trees, stories and paper memorabilia - past and present. We work on a wide range of projects, collaborate with local groups and organise public events. We would love to welcome you to our enjoyable meetings. Pop our website domain inverleighhistoricalsociety.weebly.com into the address bar to find out more from our website.

GOLDEN PLAINS SHIRE COUNCIL

From the Mayor’s Desk

DECEMBER 2025

The festive season is here, and with it brings lots of opportunities for connection, celebration and fun across the community. Reflecting on a busy year at Council, we look forward to what the festive season brings and the exciting developments on the horizon. I would like to thank the community for their support since being reelected as Mayor for 2025/26. I would also like to congratulate Cr Emma Robbins on being elected Deputy Mayor.

It’s a privilege to serve as Mayor of Golden Plains Shire for another year, and I look forward to working with you all in the year ahead to continue to deliver positive outcomes for the community. I am very proud to be part of Golden Plains Shire and remain hopeful for the future.

Golden Plains Shire Council CEO Adam McSwain and I have had a busy month of meetings with various Federal, State and Council counterparts to advocate for local priorities in our Shire.

We travelled to Melbourne and Canberra to meet with the Peri Urban group of Councils which includes Golden Plains, Surf Coast, Bass Coast, Baw Baw and Moorabool and we also had other meetings with the Greater Ballarat Alliance of Councils, the Tourism Mid-West Board and G21.

We met with Federal Government representatives including the Minister for Planning, Minister for Housing and Building and Minister for Local Government, as well as the Leader of the Opposition, Shadow Minister for Planning and Housing and Shadow Minister for Local Government.

Our focus was supporting growth in all areas of the Shire, improving digital connectivity, and ensuring funding programs continue to

be available for various regional development programs.

Advocating to these levels of government remains a top priority so we can ensure the community’s voices are heard and influence positive changes. We will keep you updated as these conversations progress resulting in tangible outcomes.

I’d like to thank the community for their nominations for the Golden Plains Shire Council Community Awards 2026. We were thrilled by the incredible response to the program and look forward to celebrating the unsung heroes in our community. An awards ceremony will be held in early 2026 to recognise the nominees and unveil the 2026 Community Award recipients.

Owen Sharkey Mayor

Join the COMMUNITY Engagement Register

Are you interested in participating in community engagement opportunities?

Sign up to Council’s Community Engagement Register to receive Council’s monthly Engage newsletter and stay up to date with community engagement opportunities and updates.

Visit Council’s website: goldenplains.vic.gov.au

Pictured below: Mayor Cr Owen Sharkey and Golden Plains Shire Council CEO Adam McSwain with Surf Coast Shire Council Executive, Darryn Chiller, Moorabool Shire Cr and Chair of Peri Urban Councils Victoria, Moira Berry and Member for Ballarat, the Hon. Catherine King MP.

INVERLEIGH CFA NEWS

Fire Restrictions Are Now In Force!

As you read this, we are now in December and this year the fire restrictions have come into force throughout all our local shires. The fire restriction period has commenced on Monday 24th November at 1am, and will extend into early next year.

This means that burning of rubbish piles and bonfires are banned until the restrictions come off next year. Things like BBQ’s can be operated in certain circumstances with the appropriate cleared areas and fire prevention equipment on hand. The best way to find out what you can and cannot do during the restriction period is to look up the CFA web site and there you will find more detailed information about what can be done. It is an offence to light non - conforming fires during the restriction period and they can often result in fines being issued. A good example of this has been campfires along the river in recent years.

Several months ago, it looked as though this season’s fire risk might be reduced because of the dry seasonal conditions. That has all changed in the last six weeks as we have had a lot of rain and this has increased the amount of grass growth immensely. Now we have grass everywhere and

the roadsides, in particular are overgrown and unkept. This presents a very dangerous situation later into the summer when this grass dries out and presents a very high fuel load across large parts of our region.

So please keep your house surrounds clear of fuel and mown short and make sure you have a fire plan that is workable and explained to all the household members. Remember that total fire ban days are exactly that, No Fires. Watch and listen for any warnings that might be issued for our area and if travelling to other places then check for warnings there too.

Lastly I would like to remind everybody that the ongoing dispute with the Allan Labour government over the volunteer tax has not been resolved and ongoing action is still being taken. We will be serving our local communities as per normal as the dispute is with the government and not you. We appreciate the support we have and are receiving from many of you and please take every opportunity to pressure our local members about this tax.

Have a enjoyable and safe summer.

Ewen Peel

Inverleigh Fire Brigade.

I'm not the man I used to be!

I'm not the man I used to be, less hair, less strength, less flexibilty, less energy.

More wrinkles, more bleeding from simple scratches, more medication taking, more time needed to put on socks and shoes.

I'm not the man I used to be, less confident, less dogmatic, less judgemental, less time thinking about sex.

More time to think before speaking, more time to listen, more time to learn, more time alone, enjoying silence and............. ...........my own company, more time creating, more time amazed by nature.

I'm not the man I used to be.

Trading Hours:

Monday-Friday 9am5.30pm

Saturday 9am - 1pm

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES:

• Prescription and medication advice

• Free blood pressure monitoring

• NDSS access point

• Weekly medication packing

• Home medication review

• Scripts on file service

• TAC and Worksafe claiming

• Return of unwanted medication

INVERLEIGH PHARMACY

Minh & Nathan Nguyen

17 High St Inverleigh. Vic 3321

phone: (03) 5206 3405 Email: Inverleighpharmacy888@gmail.com

We specialise in & offer the following services:

· Animal Health

· Chemical products / garden, cropping

· Agronomy

· Fertilizer

· Fecal egg worm counts

· Soil Testing

· Hardware

Hours of trading:

8.00am till 5.00pm Monday to Friday

8.30am till 12 pm Saturday 28 High Street, Inverleigh. Phone : 5265 1648

HewittAndWhittyisa"familyowned"business andhavebeen servicingthelocal&rural communityforover85years LocalsupporteroftheRCHGoodFridayAppeal2025.

· Fencing

· Grainline Products

· Stockfeed

· Plumbing

· Tanks / troughs & poly pipe

. Seed

· Elgas

· On farm Delivery’s

Pictured abow, the friendly Staff at H&W Inverleigh Danny, Sarah, Charli and store mascot Clover the cat.

• Yard Clean-ups

• Soil Removal

• Shed Site Cuts

• Trenching

• Post Hole Auger

• 350 & 400 Augers

• Landscape Prep Work

• Located in Inverleigh

Community Cinema for Children, Meredith

YOUTH AND FAMILY COMMUNITY CINEMA

The Anglican Churches of Inverleigh, Bannockburn, and Meredith, known as Golden Plains Anglicans, with the assistance of a grant funded by the Melbourne Anglican Foundation, have established a Community Cinema in the Church of the Epiphany, Meredith for Children, Youth and their Families

The Cinema will be free and located in the Church of the Epiphany, Wallace Street (Midland Highway) Meredith, open 6.00 pm, Tuesdays during school holidays. All films will be ageappropriate family movies (General or Parental Guidance) (CVLI # 61106)

Golden Plains Anglicans is a Safe Community Parish. All volunteers assisting in the operation of the cinema have undertaken our approved Safe Community Training, Working with Children Training, hold a current Working With Children Card, and a National Police Check. To maintain a safe environment for children and families we request that adults who are not accompanying children do not attend.

Free drink and popcorn will be available, however, if you would like to make a donation to the running of the cinema, donation boxes will be available.

Possible viewings this coming Summer Holidays:

December 30

January 13

January 6

January 20

We look forward to hosting you and your family at our Youth and Family Community Cinema sponsored by The Melbourne Anglican Foundation and Golden Plains Anglicans.

The Revd Dr Timothy Smith Vicar

Golden Plains Anglicans

Inverleigh+Bannockburn+Meredith

ALL are welcome

Living the Gospel in our Community revdrtim@hotmail.com 0412 673 152 www.goldenplainsanglican.org

MONTHLY FOOD SWAPS are held in INVERLEIGH on second Saturday of the month 9:30 to 10:00 @Sonny Cafe and in BANNOCKBURN

@ St. Mary MacKillop School 4th Saturday each Month

CWA

NATIVE HUT NIGHT BRANCH

Est. 14th July 2014

This branch meets 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm at Teesdale Hall, Main Road Teesdale.

All ages welcome. It is not an “oldies” group. If you are interested in attending please contact: Shirley 0447 873 763

Lions Club of Inverleigh

Leigh Valley

"Lions Club newspaper collection".

Leigh Valley Lions Club collects newspapers & magazines for recycling. Funds raised are used for both local & international Lions projects. Community members are asked to deposit their papers in "LIONS" marked wheely bins located at Inverleigh Hall & beside the Bannockburn Library in High St. Pick up of large amounts can be arranged by text or phone to Secretary John Crowe 0414 674 156.

Surprise Shop

Inverleigh’s OP SHOP

Opening Hours

Tuesday, Friday & Saturday 9.00 AM – 1.00 PM

EFTPOS and Cash

NO Electrical Goods, Car Seats, Furniture, Bikes or Suitcases

Closed School Holidays

July 5th – 21st

New Volunteers Welcomed

You may have noticed the Inverleigh Surprise Shop has not been open for the last few Monday afternoons. The reason is our two regular volunteers have retired due to health issues and we have not been able to find any new recruits for Monday afternoons.

If anyone would like to help out we would welcome the extra support. You will need to undergo some training, but it is not arduous. There are usually two volunteers on duty at any time.

Volunteers are hard to find these days as most people are busy with work and family, but if you feel up to a few hours a week you would be very welcome.

Call in and make yourself known to the volunteers on duty.

Golden Plains Baha’i Community

The Baha’i Faith upholds the oneness of God, the oneness of Religion and the oneness of mankind. Religion should unite all hearts and bring spirituality and world peace.

The equality of men and women is essential to create peace.

Spiritual education for all. We have no clergy as it is up to each person to investigate truth for himself. “The earth is but one country and mankind its citizens” Baha’u’llah For more information: bahai.org or Bannockburn 52 812 102, Teesdale 52 815 143, or Ross Creek 53 420 286

Opening hours: Tuesday-Friday 10 to 4

Saturday 10 to 1

Justices of the Peace

Mr Keith Windle

77 Dundas Street INVERLEIGH Ph: 0429 651 298

Mrs E McDonald

47 High Street Inverleigh Ph: 5265 1270

Mr Peter Bufton 110 Savage Drive INVERLEIGH Ph: 0448 694 204

Mr Rod McKenzie 7 Ruxton Crt. Bannockburn Ph: 0408 527 704

Mr Stephen Gilligan SHELFORD Ph: 0409 432 933

LEIGH DISTRICT

RIDING CLUB INC

A00041565N meets for rally every 2nd Sunday Victoria Park, Park Street, Inverleigh Vic 3321

New Members always welcome for enquiries please contact

Pres. Narelle Bogle 0438 034 313

Admin & EnquiriesSue Debets 0401 149 226

P O BOX 87 INVERLEIGH VIC 3321

St. Joseph’s Catholic Parish of Meredith

Contact: Parish Priest Fr. Joseph Mob. 0404 598 558 Office: 5286 1230

Office open Wednesday & Friday 9.30am to 4.30 pm

CATHOLIC PARISH OF MEREDITH MASS TIMES –DECEMBER 2025

Winchelsea - St. John the Baptist @ 6pm Sat. DEC. 6, 13, 20, 27

Meredith – St. Joseph @ 9am DEC. 14, 28

Bannockburn – St. Mary MacKillop @ 11am Sun. DEC. 7, 14, 21, 28

Inverleigh – Sacred Heart – @ 4pm Sun. DEC. 21

CHRISTMAS RECONCILIATION & MASSES RECONCILIATION

Bannockburn – Thursday 18th December 9.00am

Meredith – Friday 19th December 10.00am

Winchelsea – Saturday 20th December 5.00pm

CHRISTMAS EVE - Bannockburn – 6.00pm children invited to dress up Meredith – 9.00pm

CHRISTMAS DAY -Winchelsea–9.am -Bannockburn-11am

NOTICEBOARD WHO CAN I TALK TO?

Weekly Bus Service provided for residents without transport to shop in Geelong! The Bus leaves the Inverleigh Hall Every FRIDAY at 9:30 am and leaves Geelong at 2:15pm for the return trip.

Our Public Hall needs the lawns maintained. Can you join the roster to mow the lawns once or twice a year? If so, please contact: Anne-Maree Tarbett 0417 512 240

LEIGH PRESBYTERIAN PARISH

Inverleigh “Forwedonotpreachourselves, but ChristJesustheLord...” (2 Corinthians 4.5)

Sunday Service at Inverleigh 10 am.

VISITORS ARE ALWAYSWELCOME

For further information: Rev.SurendraWesley 0428489222

Phone 13 11 14

LIFELINE

Inverleigh Hall

Hall Hire Contact

The Inverleigh Hall Committee promotes the use of the hall and develops and maintains our fabulous community asset.

If you would like to become involved by serving on the committee or by initiating activities at the hall, please contact

Anne-Maree Tarbett 0417 512 240

Anglican Church

Special Christmas Eve Service 7pm Church Services each Sunday 8 am Inverleigh (10 am Bannockburn) (5pm Meredith)

38 High Street, Inverleigh Rev’d Dr. Tim Smith 0412 673 152 Geoff Morgan 0408 106 559

Inverleigh and District

Red Cross

Meet monthly in Inverleigh Public Hall at 1.30pm. December 2nd 12noon Xmas Lunch at Bowling Club MEETING DATES FOR 2025 April 14th 1.30pm at hall June 16th 1.30pm at hall

Aug 11th AGM 12 noon at the hall Oct 13th 1.30pm at hall Dec 8th Xmas Break up, Venue tba

Heather Bogie President 0408 521 090. Joy Gray Secretary 0488 573 156.

Welcomes existing and new members alike.

We are so much more than just Tea and Scones ladies!

Social Meetings 7.30pm every last Wednesday of the month (except Dec/Jan).

Meet in Presbyterian Church Hall. inverleighcwa@gmail.com or Brooke Wauchope. Ph 0431 006 761

40 Leigh News

VICTORIA PARK

Park Street

INVERLEIGH

GROUNDS FOR HIRE

TOILETS

GRASS & SHADE

OVERNIGHT CAMPING (NO POWER)

CANTEEN & CLUBHOUSE

ANIMAL FRIENDLY

HORSE YARDS

Reasonable Rates

CONTACT:

Narelle Bogle 0438 034 313

NOTICEBOARD

KNIT, KNATTER AND THAT GROUP-TEESDALE

Bring a craft, learn a new craft or come for a walk, chat and cuppa.

Meets 2nd & 4th Tuesday’s , 9.30am - 1.30pm At Teesdale Community Hall

*BYO craft and lunch

*Tea & Coffee provided.

Cost $5 Joining fee. $3 per session Contact Lesley 0400 547 157 or Shirley 0447 873 763

TEESDALE MECHANICS

INSTITUTE

(Formerly Community Hall) Behind the CFA Building Main Road, Teesdale FOR ALL YOUR HIRING NEEDS

Hall, Meeting Room, Kitchen, Tables, Chairs & Crockery.

For bookings, phone Dale on 0428 386 724

Meredith And District Motor Cycle Club

We meet the 3rd Sunday of every month for our ride day (NO RACING AND NO QUADS /4 WHEELERS)

We have 2 tracks: One that is set up as a motocross track that is marshalled and we also have a smaller flat track for kids/beginners to learn to ride.

St Johns is in attendance as well as a canteen. For more information please: head over to our Facebook page MADMCC or call 0415 503 869.

Ballarat Chooks Pullets for Sale: Hyline Brown Sexed and Vaccinated.

Delivering to: Winchelsea (Eastern Reserve), Inverleigh (Lawsons Park), & Bannockburn (B&S Stockfoods)

Text or Ring Kelvin 0400 559 559 for delivery dates and times

"Ballarat Chooks Information Page" Please like my page!

Vic Park Inverleigh Scrap Metal Bin. Victoria Park volunteers use the Metal Skip Bin to help fund the upkeep of the park.

• Absolutely NO non metal items.

• NO wire, rubber, plastic, wood, bags or e-waste,

• No tyres, batteries, gas cylinders.

• If wood, rubber, plastic etc are attached to your metal, remove it before bringing the metal to Vic Park.

• Never fill the bin over the water line. If the Bin is Full sign is up, place metal items at the stump or come back another day.

We run a weekly play session which brings families together to learn and develop through informal play activities and social interaction. Our aim is to provide a variety of experiences, toys and activities for children to enjoy, and create an inclusive atmosphere where care givers can have a hot drink, relax and build connections that last beyond playgroup. New members are always welcome, we hope to see you at a session soon!

Inverleigh Playgroup | Enquiries: playgroup.inverleigh@gmail.com

When: Wednesdays during school terms

Time: 9.15 – 11.15am

Where: Inverleigh Public Hall

Cost: $5 per family

What to bring: Please bring a piece of fruit to be cut and shared, a drink bottle and a hat

Tea & coffee provided

THANK YOU AND SITUATIONS VACANT!

Inverleigh Public Hall Committee would like to thank the volunteer mowers from the community who continue to keep the hall grounds looking sharp! We are grateful for the hours you all put in.

The volunteer mowers are: Campbell Brumby, David and Linda Farrimond, Keith Robson, Mark Hambrook, Ray Goodman, Alistair Goodman and David Walpole.

If you are willing to join the team of volunteers, we would love some more community minded mowers. Volunteering is on a monthly roster system and you have to use your own mower due to compliance issues. We are not able to supply a mower. Please don’t hesitate to contact me before the end of 2025 to enable a monthly roster to be sent out for the new year on either: 0417 512 240 or email: amtarbett@ bigpond.com Anne-Maree Tarbett

44 Leigh News

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

• Christmas With Your Pets

• Canine Cough IN OTHER NEWS Christmas and New Years Opening Hours

Wednesday 24th Dec - 7:30am to 1pm

Thursday 25th Dec - CLOSED

Friday 26th Dec - CLOSED

Saturday 27th Dec - 8:00am to 1:00pm

Sunday 28th Dec - CLOSED

Monday 29th Dec - 7:30am to 6:30pm

Tuesday 30th Dec - 7:30am to 6:30pm

Wednesday 31st Dec - 7:30am to 1:00pm

Thursday 1st JanCLOSED

Flea Facts

Did you know?

* A female flea can lay up to 2,000 eggs

* On average a flea lives 2-3 months

*Just one flea can multiply to 1,000 fleas on your pet and in your home in 21 days

*The male flea can mate for 9 hours straight

* Flea eggs that have been lying dormant over the winter months are stimulated to hatch.To keep your pet flea free you must commit to a year long program.

*To prevent fleas and break the cycle it is important to use a monthly flea prevention such as Simparica or Simparica Trio for dogs and Revolution or NexGard Spectra for cats.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

The staff at Bannockburn Veterinary Clinic would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. We would like to thank our clients for their support during the past year and look forward to caring for your pets in 2026.

The clinic will be closed during the public holidays in December and January. Please see our Christmas and New Year opening hours.

If your pet requires veterinary attention during the time we are closed please contact Geelong Animal Emergency on (03) 5222 2139 or Geelong Animal Referral Services on (03) 4219 2169

Christmas With Your Pets

As much as we enjoy the Christmas celebrations our pets may find it a bit scary. Pets thrive on consistency and feeling safe. With changes to their home environment and extra guests pets may experience anxiety. They may get also get into a bit of trouble with the christmas decor and foods.

Here are some tips for a safe and happy Christmas:

Quiet Safe Space - providing your pet with a quiet space to retreat away from all the noise will help them remain calm.

Exercising your pets prior to having guests over will increase the likelihood they will use the celebration time to have a nap.

If you have a kitten or cat who loves to climb, ensure your Christmas tree is safely secured to the ground.

Christmas trees look like a storage facility for lots of new toys of all different shapes and sizes. Check your ornaments for sharp objects such as pins and hooks. Shards from broken ornaments and long pieces of tinsel can be a chocking hazard and harmful to your pets intestines.

Human food - Christmas foods involve some of the most toxic substances for pets. Just a small amount of some of these foods listed can be fatal -

Christmas Pudding

Avocados

Cooked bones

Macadamia nuts

Alcohol

Onions

Raisins

Coffee

Pets can be tricky about getting their paws on something

tasty. Don't give in to those puppy dog eyes!

Wrapping paper, ribbons, bows and cards - don't leave these lying about, if chewed and swallowed these have the potential to cause an intestinal obstruction.

We hope you and your pets have safe Christmas and New Years celebrations!

If your pet does require veterinary attention during this time please contact the clinic on (03) 5281 1221.

You can purchase these products from the clinic. If you would like more infomation please call the clinic on (03) 5281 1221.

Scoop The Poop!

When out walking your dog remember to take your poo bags! You can purchase bags from any petstore or even the supermaket.

No one likes to step in dog poo but there are many other reasons to scoop the poop!

Rainwater washes pet waste directly into our water ways which can affect our flora and fauna.

Dog poo may contain harmful organisms that can be transmitted to humans and other animals.

It is the law in most urban and suburban areas.

Cleaning up daily helps prevent odour.

No one likes to step in dog poo!

If we are closed please contact Geelong Animal Emergency on (03) 5222 2139 or Geelong Animal Referral Services on (03) 4219 2169

Canine Cough

Canine cough is a highly contagious upper respiratory condition. It refers to infection of the upper respiratory tract resulting in the sudden onset of a severe cough.

The cough can appear worse with exercise, over excitement or pressure by the collar on the neck.

It is caused by airborne microbes such as a virus (parainfluenza) or bacterium (bordatella bronchiseptica) and can spread through droplets, direct contact or contaminated surfaces such as water, food bowls or toys.

Symptoms include:

• Dry honking cough

• Runny nose & sneezing

• Lethargy

• Loss of appetite

• Fever

It is highly infectious and dogs commonly contract the condition at boarding kennels, puppy/obedience classes, dog shows or other places where there are groups of dogs.

Vaccinating for canine cough is highly recommended for the prevention of the disease and is usually required prior to going into boarding or attending puppy class.

The vaccination is not 100% protective but vaccinated dogs who contract canine cough will only have a mild infection that runs a much shorter course.

If you suspect your dog has canine cough, immediately isolate them from all other dogs.

If your dog isn't vaccinated for canine cough and you would like to organise a vaccine please call the clinic on (03) 5281 1221.

Clinic Hours: Monday - Friday 7.30am – 6.30pm Saturday 8.00am – 1.00pm

Telephone: 03 52811 221

OUR VETS

 Dr. Peter Bond

 Dr. Kylie Flanagan

 Dr. Kelly Bond

 Dr. Hugh Gibson

 Dr. Charlie Sinclair

 Dr Gen Nicholson

We recognise animals large and small are part of your family and our team is committed to providing the best health care available

1759 Midland Highway, Bannockburn

info@bannockburnvet.com.au

www.bannockburnvet.com.au

Date: Wednesday 8 October 2025

GOLDEN PLAINS SHIRE ROAD SAFETY PROJECTS RECEIVE FUNDING

Golden Plains Shire Council has been successful in obtaining $2 million from the Victorian Government’s Safe Local Roads and Streets Program. This initiative is designed to enhance road safety on Council-managed roads, intersections and precincts.

Council was successful in receiving funding for the following six projects:

• Project 1: Milton Street & Burns Street, Bannockburn – Raised pedestrian crossings.

• Project 2: Heales Street and Becker Street, Smythesdale – Raised pedestrian crossings.

• Project 3: East Street, Inverleigh – Raised pedestrian crossing.

• Project 4: Moreillon Boulevard, Bannockburn – Raised pedestrian crossing.

• Project 5: Racecourse Road and Ross Creek-Haddon Road, Haddon – Raised pedestrian crossings and speed limit reduction.

• Project 6: Lacy Road & Sebastopol-Smythesdale Road, Ross Creek – Intersection upgrade.

These approved projects have advanced through the initial concept and planning stage, and Council will issue tenders for the works, with timelines for construction to be established

Golden Plains Shire Mayor Cr Owen Sharkey said the road safety projects aimed to enhance safety for all pedestrians and road users.

“Council is pleased to have received this Victorian Government funding to help us plan and implement road safety initiatives to reduce road trauma and support a thriving community,” Cr Sharkey said.

“We look forward to getting these projects underway with the aim of enhancing safety for all residents, young people, rate payers, businesses and road users.”

The Victorian Government’s Safe Local Roads and Streets Program is a $210 million dollar program that runs to June 2027. The program fosters a collaborative approach bringing together local councils, the Department of Transport and Planning and the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) to jointly identify, plan, develop and deliver crucial road safety improvements across the state.

For more information about Golden Plains Shire Council’s projects, contact Coordinator Roads and Drainage Engineering Darren Saunders on 5220 7111 or email enquiries@gplains.vic.gov.au

– ENDS –

Released by: Adam McSwain, CEO, Golden Plains Shire Council

Media contact: Lachlan Cowlishaw, Senior Advisor, Communications & Engagement, Golden Plains Shire Council P. 5220 7187 │ M. 0407 141 271 │E. lachlan.cowlishaw@gplains.vic.gov.au

Directory of Clubs, Services and Organisations

Below is a directory for clubs, organisations and services operating in Inverleigh, Teedale, Shelford and surrounding areas. If you are interested in obtaining further information about an organisation, please feel free to ring and have a chat with them. Any club or organisation who wishes to be listed, please forward details to us and we will include your listing. We would also appreciate being kept up to date with contact details.

INVERLEIGH AREA

Anglican Church Inverleigh (St Pauls)

38 High Street, Inverleigh services: please check Leigh News for current times

contact: Rev. Dr Tim Smith Ph: 5265 1284 / 0412 673 152

Friends of Inverleigh Nature Conservation Reserve.

President: Keith Windle, 0429 651 298 windle.keith@gmail.com

Geelong & District

Carriage Drivers

Christa Jones 0408 342 403 gdcd.secretary@gmail.com

Inverleigh Bowls Club

Pres. Adrian Hurring 0418 593 849

Sec. Jenny Peel 0418 301 939

Inverleigh Cemetery Trust

Chairman: Bruce McDonald 0408 567 970

Sextant: Alex (Sandy) McCallum 0408 378 752

Secretary: Tonya Allen. 0411 624 309 inverleighcemetery@gmail.com

Inverleigh Cricket Club

Pres: Marcus Warton ph. 0400 199 309

Inverleigh CWA

Brooke Wauchope 0431 006 761. Inverleighcwa@gmail.com

Inverleigh Football/Netball Club

President: David Haste 0425 810 983

Inverleigh-Leigh Valley Lions Club

Keith Robson 0408 270 107 inverleigh.lions@gmail.com

Inverleigh Golf & Disc Golf Club

President: Greg Erwin 0408 651 744 Email: golf3321@bigpond.com

Inverleigh Historical Society

Christine Windle 0403 267 286 Liz McDonald 0417 066 433

Inverleigh Playgroup playgroup.inverleigh@gmail.com

Inverleigh Progress Assoc.

President:Hilary Hamilton 5265 1384

Inverleigh Riding Club

Leighdale Equestrian Centre

Mark Mummery - 0437 807 675 or Melinda Spiller 0413 648 012

Inverleigh RSL Sub-Branch President: Deema Johnston 5281 1106

Inverleigh Tennis Club

Shane Lubcke 0410 483 690

Leigh District Landcare Group

Pres: Campbell Brumby 0419 889 757

Sec: Louise Blersch

Leigh District Riding Club

President: Narelle Bogle 0438 034 313

Admin & Enquiries - Sue Debets 0401 149 226

Victoria Park Reserve Bookings, Narelle Bogle 0438 034 313

MURGHEBOLUC AREA.

Murgheboluc Recreation Reserve. 0459 042 910 - committee member booking site - spacetoco email - murgheboluc.hall@outlook.com

SHELFORD AREA

Shelford Cricket Club

Robert Rice (Pres) 0459 491 698

Shelford Progress Association

Sec: Glenn Jeffery 0413 317 779

TEESDALE AREA

CWA Native Hut Branch

Shirley Wild Ph: 0447 873 763

Leighdale Equestrian Centre

Mark Mummery - 0437 807 675 or Melinda Spiller 0413 648 012

Leighdale Pony Club Inc. Pres: Tom McCann 5265 1169 Sec: Sue Moran 0437 914 454

Teesdale Branch Liberal Party

Charlie Hartup 5281 5222

Teesdale Cricket Club Alister Woods. 0439 395 456

Teesdale Pre School

Mandy Bartlett. 5281 5488

Teesdale Sporting Complex

Mrs Kay Hower. 5281 5389

Teesdale Tennis Club

Mrs Judy Evans. 5281 5328

Teesdale Community Hall (Teesdale Mechanics Institute)

Dale Smithyman 0493 426 861

Working Sheepdog Club

Glenn Agnew 0427 325 905

BANNOCKBURN AREA

Bannockburn & District Men's Shed

Syd McConachy (Pres) Geoff Wild (Sect) 0407 835 731

Probus Club Bannockburn Secretary- Judith 0447 621 776 bannockburndistrictprobus@gmail.com

Emergency 000

Windstorm and Flood 132 500

EMERGENCY

POLICE, AMBULANCE, FIRE, SES

Ring 000

FOR POLICE-WITHOUT LIGHTS & SIRENS

Ring: 131 444

LifeLine 5222 2233 or 13 11 14

B’burn Surgery 5281 1481

B’burn Vet 5281 1221

Surfcoast Taxi 0408 325 992

Barwon Water 1300 656 007

Power Failure 13 24 12

Geelong Hospital Accident & Emergency 5226 7564

Golden Plains Equine Vets 0437 467 097

Golden Plains Medical Centre 5281 2320

Wildlife Rescue 0500 540 000

Women’s Domestic Violence Crisis Service 1800 015 188

Shire Ranger 5220 7111

If you would like your Club or Service included in this directory, or if you need to update any details above, please contact the Editor. leighnews@inverleigh.org.au

50 Leigh News

Leigh News © 2013, Inverleigh Progress Association Inc.

The Leigh News is published monthly (except January) by the Inverleigh Progress Association Incorporated, and is distributed free in the townships of Inverleigh, Teesdale, Bannockburn and Shelford, and the surrounding districts. Letters, comments, suggestions, articles, and reports from readers are welcome whether or not intended for publication.

The Leigh News is prepared and assembled by the Editor and printed using environmentally friendly materials and distributed by volunteer workers.

Circulation: 750.

Editorial and Advertising Items submitted for inclusion in the Leigh News should be clearly marked “For inclusion in the (month) Leigh News” and in by the 23rd day of the month

Advertisements should be marked with the size of advert required and the number of editions in which it is to be displayed.

The discontinuation of Advertisements must be notified by 23rd of the month. Failure to notify the editor rests with the advertiser and late notifications will still be invoiced.

Advertisements or Editorial contributions should be clearly addressed to:

“Leigh News”, PO Box 247, Inverleigh, Victoria 3321 or leighnews@inverleigh.org.au

PLAGIARISM

Contributions to the Leigh News are published with the permission of various bodies and representatives who supply the information, photos advertisements and crosswords. None of this information should be used by any other publication without first requesting permission of the supplier of this information.

Using material without seeking permission is plagiarism and carries penalties.

The views or ideas expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the editorial committee or of the Inverleigh Progress Association. While we try to check the integrity, the publication of advertisements is not an endorsement of the advertiser’s product or quality of workmanship.

Surfcoast: 13 Pearl Street

Postal: P.O. Box 178, Torquay Vic 3228

Tel: (03) 5261 2262 Fax: (03) 5261 6639

Email: admin@surftax.com.au

Winchelsea: 22 Willis Street

Postal: P.O. Box 40, Winchelsea 3241

Tel: (03) 5267 2673 Fax: (03) 5267 2465

Email: winch@surftax.com.au

LEIGH RIVER STANDPIPE

The Leigh River standpipe is managed by the Inverleigh Progress Association Inc. and is located on the corner of Cambridge St, Inverleigh.

For any new or existing account enquiries, please contact: Gwenda Smith (IPA Treasurer) at inverleighpa@yahoo.com.au

For any general enquiries, please contact: Murray McMillan on 0408 036 783.

BANNOCKBURN SURGERY IS CELEBRATING 40 YEARS.

Dr Cameron Profitt

Dr John Henderson

Dr Benjamin Fry

Dr Rupali Jain

Dr Veronica Donahoe

Dr Edward Carson

Dr Rimas Liubinas

A humble beginning for Bannockburn Surgery when it first opened its doors in 1983 – small rooms located between what was the original supermarket and pharmacy.

Soon outgrowing these rooms, they moved in 1986 to 19 High Street with two consulting rooms, a small treatment room and tiny tearoom for its team members. Its current building (16 High Street) was opened in the year 2000 – a purpose-built practice complete with five consulting rooms and a sixth added in 2010.

The practice has grown from strength to strength and has a wonderfully dedicated team of Doctors, Nurses, Reception team and Practice Manager. They also have access to high-quality Allied Health services including podiatry and newly introduced acupuncture with Dr Rimas Liubinas, with plans for more services to follow.

For Bannockburn Surgery who celebrated their forty-year anniversary a few weeks ago, this was a proud milestone. The surgery welcomed back former team members: doctors, nurses, administration staff, and allied health for an evening of festivities reminiscing on the past forty-years and what the future holds for the practice.

The Directors (and Principal GPs) of Bannockburn Surgery would like to take the opportunity to say thank you to those whom have been part of their practice team, past and present. And also extends a warm thank you to patients for ongoing support in entrusting their health to the team at Bannockburn Surgery and their journey.

The surgery has a proud history and is incredibly excited for the future. Not only the future of Bannockburn Surgery, but also in continuing to support the growing community of Bannockburn and its surrounds. The surgery has grand plans and is eagerly awaiting to commence build

Bannockburn Surgery is a fully accredited medical practice that provides comprehensive GP services and have been practising within the community for 40 years.

Bannockburn Surgery is the largest practice within the shire.

We are an accredited teaching practice –training medical students, nursing students and future GPs.

Dr Rebecca Tidd

Dr Bushra Akhund

Dr Abhirami Selvakumar

Dr Ernest Cheng

of their purpose-built facility to be located next door to their current premises.

It is pleased to announce that another GP Registrar will be joining the team from August, Dr Ernest Cheng, which will extend the provision of service even further. They are also very fortunate that their two current GP Registrars; Dr Bushra Akhund and Dr Abhi Selvakumar will be continuing at the practice for an additional six months.

Bannockburn Surgery doctors will be continuing to bulk-bill patients with healthcare cards and pension cards, as well as those under 16 years old.

Appointments are available daily and the doctors are welcoming new patients.

Book online via the website or contact (03) 5281 1481.

www.bannockburnsurgery.com.au

Your Life, Your Way

Delivering Exceptional Results for Over 20Years

If you’re thinking of selling a Rural or Lifestyle acreage property on the Bellarine, the Greater Geelong region or beyond then think Peter Lindeman. Peter spent 20 years managing farms before jumping the fence to sell them; and over the last 23 years he’s helped over 350 vendors achieve extraordinary results, more often than not surpassing their expectations. Why not let Peter show you how he can help you achieve an outstanding result for your property.

Peter Lindeman

Located in the New Bannockburn Shopping Centre.

Opening hours:

- Monday to Friday: 8:30am - 6:00pm

- Saturday: 9:00am - 1:00pm

- Sunday’s & Public holidays = CLOSED

Pharmacy Features

* Professional

- Vaccination Clinic

(Flu, Covid, Shingles, Whooping Cough & Travel Vaccinations)

- Victorian Community Pharmacy Pilot allowing us to prescribe for:

(i) treatment of shingles

(ii) treatment of flare-up mild psoriasis (iii) resupply of select oral contraceptive pills without a prescription for women (iv) antibiotics for uncomplicated pills without a prescription for women

- Absence from work certificates

- Blood Pressure Testing

- Diabetes Australia (NDSS) Agency

- Home Medicine Reviews

- Webster-paks

- Free Prescription filing service

- Free Prescription reminder service (myTWC app & medAdvisor app)

- Extensive range of Vitamins & Supplements

- MooGoo products

- Natio

- Medela Breastpump Hire

- Hiring of crutches

- Weight Loss products

- Ear & Nose piercing

- Home Delivery Service to:

o Bannockburn

o Teesdale/Shelford

o Inverleigh

o Lethbridge

o Batesford

* Other Products & Services

- TerryWhite Chemmart Rewards PLUS Program

* FREE to join

* 20% Discount off gifts ALL YEAR

- Extensive GIFTS to choose from, including:

* Glasshouse

* Frank Green

* Handbags & Wallets

* Fragrances

* Aromatherapy & Wellbeing

- afterpay available

- Maybelline

- Designer Brands

Follow us on Facebook and be kept up to date

www.facebook.com/bannockburnpharmacy

Sell with a local agency who supports their community.

Major Sponsors of:

Bannockburn Football & Netball Club

Bannockburn Men's Shed

Bannockburn Inclusive Group

Teesdale Cricket Club

Inverleigh & District Good Friday Appeal