The Inverleigh Progress Association
A organisation that is made up of local residents that want to contribute to making Inverleigh a great place to live. What is the IPA?
What does the IPA actually do?
publishes the Leigh News monthly & local phone directory undertakes community projects ie Town Stone Entrances executing the 2023 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
Next Meeting
MAY 21st 7:30pm at the Inverleigh Public Hall.
Notice of Annual General Meeting (AGM)
The AGM of the Inverleigh Progress Association Inc. will be held on: Wednesday, 18th June 2025, 7:30pm at the Inverleigh Public Hall.
Please note: We will be voting on adopting a new Constitution in line with the requirements of the Associations Incorporation Reform Act 2012. If you would like to view the proposed copy of the constitution please email the IPA. All positions will be open for nomination.
Find us here
Website: https://www.inverleigh.org.au/ipa
Email: inverleighpa@yahoo.com.au
MAKE GPAA YOUR ACCOUNTANT
Home Instead Geelong Rebrands to Dovida, Building on a Legacy of Quality Care
We deliver home care by creating meaningful connections
Your Life, Your Way
At Dovida, we deliver home care with respect for what makes you, you. This is how we empower you to live your life, your way.
Visit dovida.com.au (03) 5201 9090 and learn more.
On Wednesday, March 5, Home Instead Geelong officially rebranded to Dovida, marking a significant evolution in its commitment to high-quality, person-centred home care.
Serving over 1,000 clients and employing over 400 staff across the Geelong region, the organisation has built a strong reputation over the years. The rebrand to Dovida represents a renewed vision that continues to place clients at the centre of every decision.
The name Dovida—inspired by the Latin words domus (home) and vita (life)—symbolises the organisation’s mission: to empower individuals to live at home with confidence, connection, and choice.
As part of its future-focused vision for home care, Dovida introduced their ‘Circle of Care’ and renewed its commitment to person-centred care.
“Our Circle of Care approach strengthens connections between clients, families, caregivers, and healthcare professionals to provide holistic and seamless support,” Giovanni said.
“This is an exciting step forward for our organisation” Giovanni Siano, Owner and Director of Dovida Geelong, said “The name ‘Dovida’, was cho-
sen to better reflect our mission of empowering people to live at home with confidence, connection, and choice.”
With the number of Australians receiving in-home care projected to reach nearly two million by 2042, Dovida is well-positioned to meet this growing demand. Backed by over two decades of industry experience, the organisation remains focused on delivering compassionate, tailored support to older Australians and others in need.
“Our promise is simple: your life, your way. Because care isn’t just about adding years to life— it’s about adding life to those years.”
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Eulogy for James Edgar Simpson
James Edgar Simpson was born in Geelong on the 2nd of April, 1938, to Nellie and Tom Simpson. He was one of eight children in a lively and loving family: Eileen, Robert, Yvonne, Olwyn, Mary, James, Ian, and John.
Jim grew up at Woolbrook, a large farm south of Teesdale, where his father worked for the Morrisons as a farmhand. Jim’s mother died when he was only 12. He attended Teesdale Primary School, walking two miles to and from school through rain, hail, or shine. Later he took the bus from Teesdale to Geelong High School. Jim and his best mate throughout life, Reid Simpson, grew up together and shared a bond of true friendship and loyalty. Jim left school at 15 and worked as a farmhand at Shelburn, a large farm northeast of Shelford, commuting from Woolbrook each day by bike.
Jim met the love of his life, Mary, at a dance in Inverleigh. Jim and Mary were married on the 21st of April 1962, beginning a beautiful life of over 60 years together. In 1964 and 1967, living in a cottage at Shelburn, Jim and Mary welcomed daughters, Kaylene and Diane. Jim was a devoted and proud father. Jim took enormous pride and joy in his granddaughter, Simone, and his great-grandson, Tyler, sharing many wonderful moments with them, along with Kaylene and her partner Richard and Simone’s husband Chris. The family was close to their extended family and shared wonderful times with them.
Bushfires in 1969 destroyed all the buildings at Shelburn. Thankfully, Jim and Mary escaped unharmed with the children, although they lost all their possessions. They lived briefly in Inverleigh and then in Shelford, while Jim worked on at Shelburn. Eventually the family moved to Teesdale. Jim became a bus driver for Trans Otway, and later McHarry’s, driving the school bus from Mt Mercer Road to Geelong, a route he continued even after the family moved to Inverleigh. Jim retired at 70, after 40 years as a dedicated bus driver.
Jim had a deep love for his community. He was the Master of Ceremonies at the Teesdale dances. He played football for Inverleigh and was a member of the 1961 Inverleigh Football Club premiership side (Woolworth Cup). He
The Inverleigh Historical Society will have its
Annual Meeting on Wednesday 25th June at 2 pm at the Inverleigh Public Hall.
We are a very friendly group who collect, research and share local history.
If you are interested in preserving local history, including the history which is happening right now, this is the group for you.
Pictured are some of our members at our March meeting enjoying hearing stories and looking at items brought along. Everyone welcome.
For more information, please contact Christine Windle on 0403 267 286 or inverleighhistsoc@gmail.com
Shelford, and later Teesdale. He could both bowl and bat taking 226 wickets with a best of 5 for 16. He also made over 6000 runs at an average of 26.7 with a highest score of 111 not out. Jim was a proud Life Member of the Teesdale Cricket Club.
Jim was a regular member of the congregation at St Paul's Anglican Church in Inverleigh. He served on the vestry and helped with mowing rosters and working bees.
Jim was a loyal CATS supporter, attending matches and following them on TV and radio. He was friendly, easy-going, patient, positive, and cautious, quick with a smile, a joke, always warm, and with a quiet wit that made you feel instantly at ease. He was a true gentleman who touched so many lives.
Eulogy by Jim’s nephew, Clifford Bath, 5/5/2025, edited for the Leigh News by Christine Windle
won the award for most consistent in that season. He loved cricket too, playing for Inverleigh,
10 Leigh News
How did a girl from the Mallee and a boy who grew up in the Yarra Valley end up running the Inverleigh General Store? I sat down for a chat with Tracey Mossop and David Andueza as they enjoy the early days of their retirement.
Tracey and David’s Story
Tracey, born in Ringwood, moved to the Mallee when she was four years old. She was the second eldest of seven children. Her father, Geoff Mossop, was one of the two policemen in the small country town of Birchip and her mother, Maxine, was kept extremely busy with house, family and community involvement.
Tracey describes a glorious country town childhood where the dry heat meant the swimming pool, open all spring and summer, was a haven for the local children. It is no wonder that Tracey, who says she is not at all sporty, has always loved, and been good at, swimming. She had a lot of freedom and was able to ride her bike anywhere. Everyone knew each other and help, if it was needed, would always be on hand.
Tracey had her first two years of High School in Birchip. The family then moved to Bannockburn when Geoff Mossop became the policeman there. The town was not as remote as Birchip and had less of a country feel. Tracey went to Bell Park High School. At 17 she moved to Melbourne to study to be a State Registered Nurse. Although she started work as a nurse, her interest from childhood had always been in law so she enrolled to do a Law degree at Melbourne University. In her twenties Tracey back packed in England and Europe for four months.
Meanwhile, David and his twin brother were born as the youngest siblings in the four-boy family. Their parents, Matilda and Pablo, had known each other as children in the Navarra region in Spain, and had both migrated to Australia and married here. They took the family back to Spain to visit family and friends when David was three or four years old. So began the personal connections which David has always held dear, and which he says are so much easier to maintain now we have digital media. He speaks Spanish, something that Spanish speaking shop customers have been delighted to discover, with many returning over the years just for a chat.
David’s childhood was in Warburton, a small country town then, where everyone, including the local policeman, knew
everyone. He and his friends caught up to play sports for recreation and in teams, with David excelling in tennis, football and cricket. While he was at high school in Lilydale he was invited to try out for Richmond AFL. He declined as the scope of daily travel was 3-4 hours. David headed to
Western Australia after high school, working first for a mine drilling company and then as an aerobics and gym instructor. He returned to Victoria knowing that he wanted a job with some outdoor work. The Victoria Police were recruiting, so despite his mother’s reservations which grew from her knowledge of the way police have sometimes been regarded in Spain, he joined on the 8/8/88 at 8 am.
Tracey, a civil litigation lawyer, back in Melbourne after four years in Sydney, and David, building his career as a policeman, met through friends. Matthew, Xavier and Elizabeth were born in Melbourne with their youngest, William, born in 2004 18 months after taking over the General Store.
Their Melbourne home was halfway between Tracey’s parents who now lived in Inverleigh and David’s parents in the Yarra Valley. The balancing of demanding careers with their ideal of involved parenting grew more and more difficult to achieve. They began to feel tired and dissatisfied. When Tracey told her mother that they were looking for an alternative, Maxine said that the Inverleigh Shop was up for sale.
This was an idea truly out of left field, particularly for David. But they both had had wonderful times in small towns and could see great benefits in such a life. They performed their due diligence and took over the General Store from the McConachy family in September 2002. At that time there were no roadhouses on the way to Melbourne, so Inverleigh was an important stop. The passing traffic more than made up for the small local population. There were only 84 post office boxes initially and there are now 533.
Tracey and David were delighted that people came to the shop to collect their mail and that it was, and still is, a meeting place where yarns are told, connections are made, and advice is shared. They en-
joyed conversations with customers and took special care of the elderly and those who needed help. When shopping for groceries for the shop in Geelong Tracey would often add in individual requests for locals. One time a Mortlake farmer rang Tracey at the shop to ask for help. “My wife needs to get to the airport. She has a flat tyre, and I can’t make it in time,” he explained. David drove out, found her and changed the tyre. There are many other examples of Tracey and David going out of their way to help in a multitude of ways, and many locals and travellers have been most appreciative of their friendliness and generosity.
The move had wonderful benefits for the family. The children were able to come in and out of the shop from their three-bedroom house at the back, and Tracey and David could spend more time with them, with the flexibility to attend events and support them in their interests.
When the old bluestone hotel nearby came up for sale in 2010, they bought it to be their family home and commenced renovations and their beautiful formal garden. Tracey was able to travel again, sometimes with one or other of the children, and David visited Spain with the three older children on different occasions. Their children, all adults now, no doubt remember restocking the chip packets and doing other tasks
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.
in the shop from quite young ages. Tracey says that the lifestyle change taking on the shop gave them an interesting, social and rewarding career which was less stressful than law and policing.
David and Tracey created a restaurant in the house next door to the shop and named it ‘Matilda’s, after David’s mother. The colossal workload of the shop starting at 6.30 am and the restaurant finishing at midnight saw the building being leased out in 2012. In 2022 it took on a new life as accommodation. The shop was able to stay open during Covid as it was deemed to be, and certainly was, an essential service. Hours were reduced reflecting the impact of the lack of passing traffic and the difficulty in finding staff.
After 22 years behind the counter, Tracey and David have seen changes in lifestyle post Covid and in facilities as the town has grown. They agree that Inverleigh is a lovely spot which has retained its charm, beauty and vibrancy. They are enjoying retirement’s early days - walking, gardening, bowling for David, and visiting the shop but not running it. Their plans include spending more time with family and friends, finishing off their house next to the police station, getting more involved in the community and travel.
Christine Windle
12 Leigh News
Found Ewe!!
May 2025 Calendar
Part of the joys of rural living is the quirky points of interest on the properties we pass on our usual commute north, south, west or the usual east to Geelong. These landmarks range from individual gateways, letterboxes, special trees, farm activities, breeds of livestock and the turns and twists of the roads. For those that venture south along Dundas Street and Winchelsea Road there is a treat. Nearly to outskirts of Winchelsea is one of my favourites. It makes me smile every time. I thank Emma Campbell for taking this photo for the Inverleigh Historical Society 2025 calendar. It is a rotund sheep caught in a metal tree.
FOUND EWE!!!?
This is the brainchild of Jim Derham, a farmer, engineer, artist, landscape artist and general purveyor of good vibes. First was the metal tree which was a former installation in the Geelong Botanic Gardens with a pink dress, where Jim built the gates. The tree stood for several years then Jim commissioned the fibreglass sheep to his design, following his admiration of the sculpture of John Kelly’s “Cow up a Tree” in Melbourne Docklands.
I have noticed other examples of field art especially around the Christmas season,
meet in the Inverleigh Public Hall 0n the 4th Wednesday of each Month @ 2pm (Except December & January) VISITORS ARE ALWAYS WELCOME
PHOTO: EMMA CAMPBELL
of hay bales and tractor tyres and just west of Camperdown what seems to be a former rooster from Happy Hens now sits in the middle of a paddock. If the local sheep in a tree elicits a smile as you drive by, then it has achieved all Jim Derham intended. “It’s a bit of fun”
Liz McDonald
TheInverleighHistoricalCalendarhasbeen produced(andLeighNewsarticleswritten) forthepast19yearsandwearerunningout ofideasforimagesforfutureeditions. Ifyou haveanimageyouthinkmaybesuitableor justanideaforaphotoandstory,pleasecontactusoninverleighhistsoc@gmail.comfor BronwynandLiztofollowup.
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
• Yard Clean-ups
• Soil Removal
• Shed Site Cuts
• Trenching
• Post Hole Auger
• 350 & 400 Augers
• Landscape Prep Work
• Located in Inverleigh
GOLDEN OLDIES MENS GROUP
A social Men’s group meeting at various locations each month.
A day trip/Outing on the First Tuesday of the Month yhen we have an evening Dinner Meeting, with a guest Speaker on the Third Tuesday of the Month Program for June 2025
A BBQ lunch together at Lawson Park Inverleigh on Tuesday 3rd June 2025 (Self Drive or Carpool) (If weather is inclement, then at 62 Napier Street). You partners are invited to attend also.
RSVP Rod McKenzie 0408 527 704
Tuesday 17th June, Evening Dinner Meeting
6pm @ Bannockburn Hotel
RSVP Rod McKenzie 0408 527 704
Contacts : Rod McKenzie: 0408 527 704
Murray McMillan: 0408 036 783
Keith Burton: 0409 439 831
INVERLEIGH SENIORS
Meet in the Inverleigh Public Hall @ Midday on 2nd Thursday each Month for cooked Lunch ($10), guest speaker and afternoon tea and 4th Thursday each month for an outing.
Exercise Classes Each Thursday from 10am till 10:30.
in the Inverleigh Public Hall. Cost $5 each
Our next Lunch Meeting is @ Inverleigh Public Hall (Midday). Thursday 12th June 2025. Cost $10
Our June Outing for 2025 will be on Thursday 26th May at 10am. We depart Inverleigh Public Hall Full details at our next Lunch Meeting
President: Peter Trevaskis 0407 100 791
Secretary: Rhonda Goodman 0409 188 258
Our AGM Meeting will be held on Thursday the 14th August 2025
This is our August Lunch meeting so come along for good food.
SATURDAY MAY 30TH 2026
ACCEPTING BOOK DONATIONS IN CLEAN/GOOD CONDITION ONLY NOVELS, BIOGRAPHIES/ MEMOIRS and CHILDRENS BOOKS.
BY PHONING ANNE-MAREE 0417 512 240 TO ARRANGE COLLECTION
*Please do not leave them at the hall as previous arrangement.
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.
Marquee&Stables–InverleighHotel
MelbourneCupLongWeekend
Follow “Inverleigh Flower Show” on Instagram & Facebook for more details
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
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
Inverleigh Nature Conservation Reserve
Our noisy neighbours
Inverleigh is usually a quiet place, but there are times when the neighbours are just too noisy. And the culprits are often birds! Two groups of noisy birds share our Nature Conservation Reserve and the surrounding countryside – the cockatoos and the closely related parrots.
The most numerous of the cockatoos is the Longbilled Corella. These are very much a ‘local’ bird, with their natural range being confined to western Victoria and far south-east South Australia and north to the Riverina. They are usually seen in large raucous groups, often many hundreds, moving to and from feeding and roosting areas – usually heard well before they are seen. They are often seen on roadsides feeding on seeds. They also dig for roots and corms, particularly liking the introduced onionweed. In crops they can be a serious pest. True to their name, they have a very long bill which is pale. They have a red forehead and red across their upper chest.
The second noisy cockatoo is the Sulphur-crested. This is a much larger bird than the Long-billed, with a blackish bill and a bright yellow crest which is often raised in alarm or when calling. They are less numerous in our area than the Long-billed but they seem to make up for this by having an extremely loud and grating call. We know that birds use voice to communicate in various ways but it seems that sometimes Sulphur-cresteds just like to make a loud noise for the fun of it!
The third cockatoo in our area is the Galah, a favourite of many with their grey and pink colouring. These are found throughout Australia and are seen here in small groups or more often in pairs. Whilst loud, their calls are gentler on the ear, often rendered as ‘chill-chill’.
The fourth and largest of the cockatoos in our area is
the Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo which is found throughout south eastern Australia and Tasmania. They are usually seen in groups, moving between favoured feeding areas, flying slowly on broad wings and calling constantly. Their call when flying is perhaps one of the most ethereal of all Australian birds, but when a group get together in a pine or hakea tree to feed during the day, they can be extremely noisy, particularly if they have young birds begging for food.
The last ‘noisy neighbour’ is the representative of the parrot family, the Rainbow Lorikeet, which is found throughout eastern and south eastern Australia. They are by far the most conspicuous parrot in our area. They are unmissable with their blue head, red bill and red and yellow underwing and very loud, screeching call. They clamber about eucalypts and other flowering trees eating nectar and fruit, all the while keeping up their chatter. Rainbow Lorikeets have been extending their range westward in Victoria over the last few years. They are able to do this as they are a particularly assertive species – they will bully smaller lorikeets and honeyeaters to access food sources and breeding holes. For this reason, feeding Rainbow Lorikeets can be problematical. In Australia, the weather is mild enough that birds don’t need supplementary feeding as happens in the northern hemisphere. But it is understandable that we as humans like to see wildlife up-close and feeding birds is one way to do this. Perhaps the best approach is a little, but not too often!
Keep an eye out in the Leigh News and the Friends of the Inverleigh Nature Conservation Reserve facebook for upcoming activities. Please contact Keith Windle windle.keith@gmail.com if you would like to be involved with the group.
Glen White
‘Long-billed
‘Galah'
18 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
20 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 first month of winter… Ha, I hear you say, what happened to Autumn? My question exactly. As I write this, on 13th May, it is a warm and very sunny 22o C. Though the bureau has forecast cold weather for the next week, I will wait and see. But I’m sure that by the time this newsletter comes out we will already be complaining about the cold. The group is going well but we would love to see some new faces, if you have a spare hour and a half every second Thursday, and you would like to meet some new people and have some fun, please get in contact with us via our email goldenpens4@gmail.com or just pop in to the library on 5th or 19th June at 1:30pm and see what we are about. We are a very welcoming bunch of folks.
This month’s poem was written by myself, way back in 2016, it is a simple one but entertaining, when colouring in was becoming quite the rage. We hope you enjoy it, and if you think you could write something like this, please get in touch, we’d love to welcome you.
Regards Wendy Spall on behalf of the Golden Pens –Write Side Up writing group.
Colouring In 14-3-2016
The paper lies upon the floor, Black and white is the score, Waiting for colours vivid and bright, To shine and dazzle in the light.
I sit and look at swirls and lines, Should I start with heavy or fine, The colours promise a heady display Of pink and blue, green and grey.
I select a colour, one I think will suit, And I start to colour a rope of jute. Then a green to make the leaves just so, Next a primrose yellow is all the go.
A deep dark blue for ocean seas, A touch of brown upon her knees. Rose red to make her cheeks go blush, The young man with hair the colour of rust.
The time spent with my piece of paper, My pencils with the ends that taper. It’s good for stress relief they say, But I would do it anyway.
A Night to Remember at the Inverleigh Public Hall Piano Bar
The Inverleigh Public Hall Piano Bar Night was an overwhelming success—an evening filled with music, laughter, and community spirit. Locals and visitors of all ages came together to enjoy a night of singing, dancing, and socialising, making it a truly memorable occasion.
Thanks to the incredible support from the community, we raised an impressive $4,000 towards essential repairs and maintenance of the hall.
A heartfelt thank you to our talented pianist and Inverleigh local, Rohan Windle, for providing the evening’s entertainment. We also extend our sincere gratitude to the local businesses who generously donated raffle prizes and helped offset the event costs.
Inspired by the glowing feedback and enthusiastic turnout, we’re excited to announce two upcoming events featuring Rohan Windle at the Inverleigh Public Hall in 2025.
•August 29 – Inverleigh Hall Trivia - https:// inverleighhalltrivia.eventbrite.com.au
•October 24 – Inverleigh Hall Piano Barhttps://inverleighhallpianobar.eventbrite.com.au
We recommend booking early—our last event sold out quickly!
22 Leigh News
Hello all,
POLICE REPORT FOR JUNE
Well we are well and truly into Winter with freezing overnight temperatures and a few frosts but we have just not had the rain to go with it though. Hopefully decent rain will start coming soon.
Now I have had several complaints from local drivers turning into and driving along Common road suddenly coming across youths on bicycles in the dark in the middle of the road with no lights on their bicycles and no bright clothing being worn and we are really fortunate that none of the youths have been struck. If you have a child that goes out on their bikes and doesn’t return till after dark and they have no lights on their bike then they may be one of the youths involved. I have also noticed several of the youths with no bicycle helmets on as well. If your child rides a bike make sure they have the lights for night riding and helmets to protect their head if they do come off and make sure they wear them or don’t let them out on them.
It has been widely reported in recent times a youth on an electric scooter was struck and killed by a vehicle in Terang and more recently a youth on an electric kit bike on the other side of Melbourne was filmed riding at very high speeds and he struck and killed a older male pedestrian and the rider apparently suffered life changing injuries himself. Now for a long time I have been warning of the illegality and dangers of theses electric devices and many locals and I have witnessed very dangerous riding by youths on these bikes and scooters around here. Parents take note do not obtain illegal electric bike kits (look up the Victorian regulations) and do not let under 16 yr olds ride electric scooters at all. We are probably very fortunate that none of the local youths have been injured/killed around here from the types of riding that had been observed. Just think what the family of the youths involved in these incidents are going through and do not put yourselves in this situation by buying these
bikes/scooters. If your kids already have them I would seriously consider getting rid of them because they never just ride them on their own property they often find it to tempting to go out on the roads.
Victoria Police currently has a traffic operation (Halo) going and there is a big focus on increasing the police presence on the roads especially the rural roads. I have recently detected several high speed drivers (130 km/h+) on our roads and they have been issued infringements suspending their licences. I have also detected some unlicensed and disqualified drivers who have had their vehicles impounded at costs over $1300 just for the tow and then they have to go to court as well. I am pleased to say that I have not been detecting many locals so well done and please be aware of the traffic operation and take care on the roads. keep safe, Chris.
Paul Corcoran 0416 491 546
Paul O Grady 0414 932 018 57 Rankin Road, Inverleigh. Instagram @paulsbricklayinggeelong
Only a fortnight now until ZINEverleigh!
We’re looking forward to welcoming everyone back to the Inverleigh Town Hall on: Saturday 14th June from 11am - 3pm for the Zine and Art Fair. Set to be a great day, highlights include; - Work from Emerging Artists
- Art Prints - Zines!
- 40 stall holders
- Mr Squidgy Food Truck
- Poetry Workshop
- Plant Stall
- Cakes and Slices from the Local Playgroup.
Aiming to be a safe and inclusive community event there will be people of all ages selling, swapping and buying works. Zine Fairs hold a unique space, where serious artists through to small children can make and publish them.
Drop by and have a look!
Our Poetry Workshop, hosted by artist Amber Clare, begins at 12:30pm - if you are interested in booking in you can find more details and get your tickets here, either free (unwaged) or $5 (towards artists fees) https:// tinyurl.com/poetry-at-zineverleighworkshop
Zineverleigh is part of a larger Arts weekend with The BOP art Collective Wildflower Print Project on Sunday 15th with free lino printing workshops, miniature paintings, seedball making, and more - you can find details about the day at https://tinyurl.com/ wildflowerprintproject
As part of the Wildflower Project, Blink Dance Theatre are holding ‘Soma’ Wild Bodies, Wild Stories’, an improvised movement event on Sunday 15th from 5pm. More info at https://tinyurl.com/SOMA-blink-dance-theatre
Hope you are able to drop in and enjoy some of these events on: Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th June.
Bec Wilson
24 Leigh News INVERLEIGH CFA NEWS
Injustice
In recent weeks the CFA has been in the news and at the centre of a bitter dispute with the Allen Labor government. You may have noticed the yellow clothing hanging on fences and trees and also the protest rallies in the media.
With this, has arisen some confusion about how our local brigade is reacting to the Fire Service Levy changes and how are we going to respond to emergency calls within our community.
The answer is we will turn out to incidents as we always have. The reason is that we don’t have an issue with our local community and we want to support you, as you have supported us. So not for a moment did we consider neglecting and risking the safety of our own community. There are various ways that we are resisting these changes, and all with a clear message to the Allen government that what they are doing is unacceptable.
The Fire Service levy is a charge placed on your rates and paid to the local shire and then it is passed onto the state government. Some of the regional councils including Geelong City and Surf Coast have indicated they will not collect the tax as they believe it is so unfair.
It is a tax, and it is been increased by about 100% for households and commercial properties and up to 180% or more for farm land. It is calculated using a base rate and a variable percentage of value, and it’s the percentage rate that has been greatly increased. Everybody will end up paying this new tax. The farm land issue is that, instead of a reasonable flat rate it is now a higher percentage of land value so if the land is worth a lot like in our area then a lot will be paid and many of our local farms will be paying a lot more than before, some maybe $25,000 plus in this levy. Some are going towards $100 a day for fire services for one farming business and it is volunteer based, and often that farmer is a volunteer giving their time as well. The amount of money going out of our brigade area alone would be enough to purchase a new shed or truck every couple of years, and we know that won’t happen. There is talk of a rebate to CFA volunteers, but from what we can find out it will be very minimal and hard to qualify for.
Now because it has gone to a percentage of value tax it is effectively a Land tax or wealth tax and does not take into account any ability to pay if your income is lower.
So what is really happening here, is that the Allen government is using the Emergency Services good name and reputation to cover for a tax grab. The CFA have indicated that budget cuts are on the way, so the money is going somewhere and not where it is needed. Ask yourself if this is a fair tax that is clearly targeting regional communities and insulting the volunteers who provide the service with excessive taxes for the joy of helping out. There is not a lot you can do as the tax seems to have been passed in Parliament but remember next time you vote, make sure this unfair tax grab from our regional communities is stopped and a reasonable levy reinstated. Ewen Peel
Inverleigh CFA.
Interim CEO Update
June 2025
As we reach the half-way point of the year, I would like to thank the community for providing valuable feedback on the Draft Council Plan 2025-2029 (the Draft Plan) before its anticipated presentation for adoption at the June Council Meeting.
The Draft Plan was developed in consultation with our community and details the vision, goals and strategies to guide Council’s priority activities, decision making and service delivery over the next four-year period.
The Plan is the foundation for everything we do, directly addressing and aligning with the themes of our Community Vision 2040: Community;
GOLDEN PLAINS SHIRE COUNCIL
Livability; Sustainability; and Prosperity.
Don’t miss the 2025 Golden Plains Careers Expo, which will be held on Friday 6 June from 10am to 6pm at the YMCA in Bannockburn.
This event is a great opportunity for people of all ages to explore their career options and training opportunities.
We’re excited to welcome an array of industry professionals and special guest speakers who will discuss a variety of different topics and career paths.
The much-loved Edible Gardens – Sustainability & Self-Sufficiency Workshops are in full swing with a variety of different sessions being held across the Shire and online.
We’ve welcomed back Horticulturist Craig Castree who brings a wealth of knowledge to the gardening space.
There are still plenty of workshops available up until 2 July. To register for the sessions, visit goldenplains.vic.gov.au/ediblegardens.
Council recently recognised National Volunteer Week at the end of May, where we celebrated our local
Golden Plains Careers Expo Returns
Unlock your future at the Golden Plains Careers Expo!
This unique event offers people of all ages a chance to connect with industry leaders and local businesses, explore exciting educational and career pathways, and discover opportunities to boost employment prospects. Attendees can engage with industry experts representing education, skills
NEWS
volunteer groups and individuals who make a significant difference in Golden Plains Shire.
We were also thrilled to launch the 2025 Volunteers in Action photographic Exhibition which is currently on display at the Bannockburn Cultural Centre.
I encourage residents and visitors to go and see the Exhibition to see our remarkable volunteers in action.
Lastly, the 2025 Golden Spaces Winter Exhibition will be on display at the Bannockburn Cultural Centre from Saturday 7 June, before travelling up to The Well in Smythesdale and the Golden Plains Civic Centre over the next 12 months.
The Exhibition features remarkable artworks from over 20 artists and is a reflection of the incredible talent our local artists possess.
Steve Sagona Interim CEO
and training institutions, emergency services, the Australian Defence Force, local government, agriculture and much more.
The event will be held on Friday 6 June from 10am to 6pm at the YMCA in Bannockburn.
A sausage sizzle will be available from 3.30pm. Please note – registrations are required for group attendees. To register as a group, visit goldenplains.vic.gov.au/events.
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 and havebeenservicingthelocal&rural communityforover85years. LocalsupporteroftheRCHGoodFridayAppeal2025.
We specialise in & offer the following services:
· Animal Health
· Chemical products / garden, cropping
· Agronomy
· Fertilizer
· Fecal egg worm counts
· Soil Testing
· Hardware
· Fencing
· Grainline Products
· Stockfeed
· Plumbing
· Tanks / troughs & poly pipe
. Seed
· Elgas
· On farm Delivery’s
Pictured abow, the friendly Staff at H&W Inverleigh Jack, Caitlyn, Charli and Store Manager Danny Brown.
Gardening in our local area-Creating a Potager
A potager, pronounced pot-ar-shay, is a decorative vegetable garden. ‘Potage’ is French for soup, and a potager was the garden where herbs and vegetables for the pot were grown. Potagers ranged from humble kitchen gardens to grand multi-bed formal designs with hedging and intricate colour and textural planting. I am currently having lots of fun creating a modest potager in our front garden.
Of course, fruit, vegetables and herbs can be integrated into any garden with the right growing conditions and don’t have to be segregated. So why would you bother to set up a special area for them? The number one reason, particularly in southern Victoria, is that food crops require more water than the low water general garden plants suited to our climate. It is practical and convenient to group the edibles together according to their water needs. It is handy for other tasks such as feeding the soil, harvesting and rotating crops. It allows for the changing
While a potager can be free form, there are a few basics which help to create atmosphere and practicality.
1.Include some vertical elements – arches, bean tee-pees, arbours, trees and vines, topiary, statues
2.Have paths that can be negotiated with wheelbarrows
3.Make beds a good size so that you won’t have to walk on them, compressing the soil. A bed you can access from both sides can be wider than one with one-sided access. Stepping stones can help.
4.Designs based on circles and squares, or combinations of circles and squares, give a traditional feel.
5.Keep the design simple. Larger beds allow you to plant larger plants and patterns.
6.Incorporate focal points and seats to enjoy and relax from your labours.
7.Use hedges and windbreaks as part of the design. Edibles such as rosemary and feijoas work well.
nature of the beds as crops take their turns and are harvested.
What really appeals to me is the charm of entering a special space, lured along little paths and beguiled by the gorgeous colours and forms of food plants and edible flowers. It will be an area where I can play at gardening, with the shape of the beds and perennial planting creating the permanent structure and the annual and biennial vegetables allowing me to indulge my creativity again and again.
Selecting the site was easy – it needed full sun, access to water and proximity to the house. We also wanted our potager to be able to be bypassed, just in case it has less beautiful moments or even times of neglect. The size was dictated for us by the boundary fence, allowing for movement to the main garden, and keeping away from the roots of a large tree. We used the hose to establish the size and shape of the outside edge of the potager and then placed clumps of straw along the line so it was more obvious.
8.Plant what you will really use. Our potager is a curved, roughly triangular shape, with two connected circular beds inside. The other beds are irregular shapes surrounding the circles. The design went from having one entry to having four, to make it easier to harvest the trees. The whole design was laid out in straw, allowing us to try it out with the wheelbarrow and check site lines in and out of the garden.
What to plant? I am going to include plants that can be eaten, used for cosmetic or medicinal purposes will encourage beneficial insects or that will provide a good environment for plant growth. They will need to be ones we like and ones which grow in our area. Or they might simply be beautiful.
Here is my list of perennials: fig, pomegranate, bay and feijoa trees, French lavender, Tuscan rosemary, grapes, lemon verbena, thyme, chives, garlic chives, parsley, dianthus, rhubarb, sage, salvias.
Vegetables and short term plants: strawberries, lettuce (various forms and colours), greens, silverbeet, cabbage, broccoli, peas, beans, sunflowers, violas, calendulas, cherry tomatoes, eggplant, peppers and leeks. This limited list is based on what can be grown in a small space, grows neatly and is decorative, and would be handy to be accessed readily from the kitchen.
Happy gardening, Christine and Keith Windle.
White Lotus Reiki and Crystals at shop 3/29 High St. Inverleigh, offers a wide range of ethically sourced genuine crystal and gemstone products, including jewellery and lamps. We also have a wide variety of books, journals and oracle cards, smudging products, fair trade incense, homewares and so much more!
If you are after a special gift for someone or just want to spoil yourself, then this is the shop for you.
OwnerJaneisalsoaReiki,AnimalReiki,AccessBars,Meditationand SoundHealingGroupMeditationPractitioner. Sound Healing is held each Thursday fortnight at the Inverleigh Public Hall. Bookings are also available for private Meditation Sound Healing for individuals and small groups. If you would like to know more or would like to make an appointment, you can call into the shop for a chat or contact Jane: You will also find us on Whitelotus Reiki and Crystals whitelotus_reiki
32 Leigh News
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.
NOTICEBOARD
Surprise
Shop
Inverleigh’s OP SHOP
Opening Hours
Monday 12.30 PM - 4.00 PM Tuesday, Friday & Saturday 9.00 AM - 1.00 PM EFTPOS and Cash
NO Electrical Goods, Car Seats, Furniture, Bikes or Suitcases
Occasional Saturday Volunteers wanted Closed School Holidays April 5th – 21st
Op Shop Bannockburn have relocating to St. Johns
11 Byron Street Bannockburn
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
Contact the Editor to promote your community activity here
leighnews@bigpond.com
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
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
NOTICEBOARD
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 –JUNE 2025
Winchelsea - St. John the Baptist @ 5pm Sat. JUNE 7, 14, 21, 28
Anakie – St. Brigid @ 9am Sun. JUNE 8, 22
Meredith – St. Joseph @ 9am Sun. JUNE 1, 15, 29
Bannockburn – St. Mary MacKillop @ 11am Sun. JUNE 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
Inverleigh – Sacred Heart –@ 4pm Sun. JUNE 15
The Bus leaves the Inverleigh Hall Every FRIDAY at 9:30 am and leaves Geelong at 2:15pm for the return trip.
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
Anglican Church
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
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
LIFELINE
Bogie President 0408 521 090. Joy Gray Secretary 0488 573 156. Weekly Bus Service provided for residents without transport to shop in Geelong!
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
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
34 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
Ballarat Chooks Pullets for Sale: Hyline Brown Sexed and Vaccinated.
Delivering to: Winchelsea (Eastern Reserve), Inverleigh (Lawsons Park), & Bannockburn (B&S Stockfoods)
"Ballarat Chooks Information Page" Please like my page!
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.
Vic Park Inverleigh Scrap Metal Bin. Victoria Park volunteers use the Metal Skip Bin to help fund the upkeep of the park.
Text or Ring Kelvin 0400 559 559 for delivery dates and times Tai Chi
• 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.
The last couple of months have been a fun time at Inverleigh playgroup. We have had Easter craft and easter egg hunt, messy play, Mother's Day craft and bouquet making, Home/kitchen play with biscuit decorating, dolls and play food, Playgroup at the park, and Reconciliation week craft.
Inverleigh playgroup welcomes all parents, grandparents and carers with children 0-6 to come along to our weekly session.
Wednesdays 9:15am - 11:15am during school terms at Inverleigh Public Hall $5 per family and please bring a piece of fruit to share.
Join our Facebook or Instagram page for updates of events. We are also having our annual Pie Drive from Routleys bakery and would appreciate any orders! Place your orders by June 10th. We hope to see you at playgroup soon!
38 Leigh News
TABLE OF CONTENTS
•Next Month Is Desexing Month!
•Winter Care For Senior Pets
•Pregnancy X-Rays
IN OTHER NEWS
King's Birthday Public Holiday
The clinic will be closed for the King's Birthday public holiday on Monday 9th June.
If you have a veterinary emergency during this time please call Geelong Animal Emergency on 5222 2139.
Welcome Vet Nurse Erin!
We would like to welcome our lovely nurse Erin to the Bannockburn Vet Clinic team!
Erin has previously completed placement at our clinic whilst studying her vet nursing qualification and now works with us on a part-time basis.
Erin loves spending time with her cat Phil who is a black and white domestic short hair and her Corgi x named Layla. Make sure to say hi next time you see her in the clinic!
Next Month Is Desexing Month!
With July just around the corner so is National Desexing Month! We will be offering a 20% discount on desexing for all animals booked in for July. Now is the perfect chance to desex your pet and take advantage of the discounted rate.
Desexing provides many benefits for you and your pet. This includes things such as prevention of unwanted pregnacies, limits spraying and marking of territory, less likely to show aggressive behaviour or to roam and decreases the chance of problems such as mammary tumours, pyometra, prostate issues or tumours around the anus.
If you would like to take up the discounted rate and book in a surgery for your pet during July's National Desexing Month please contact the clinic on 03 5281 1221.
Winter Care For Senior Pets
Just like people, cold and wet weather can be harder on our older dogs and cats. The drop in temperature can aggravate arthritis and joint disease. Our pets joints and muscles get stiff and sore if they aren't used. We should be mindful of keeping a healthy exercise routine during winter without over-doing it.
If you notice your pet is showing signs of discomfort associated with arthritis make an appointment at the clinic. Our vets can recommend a number of approaches to help treat joint pain.
We recommend 6 monthly check ups for our senior pets to stay on top of any potential health issues.
Puppy School
Do you have a new puppy and thinking about enrolling in puppy school? We have new classes starting soon here at the clinic.
Classes go for 6 weeks and are run by our dog trainer
Caroline Cotter form Puzzled Dog Training.
Puppy school is not only a great way of learning and teaching your new puppy basic obedience but also offers socialisation with other dogs. We also offer juvenile classes for older dogs.
If you would like more information or are interested in enrolling please call the clinic on 5281 1221.
Pregnancy X-Rays
Did you know we can do pregnancy x-rays on late pregnant cats and dogs? From 7 weeks gestation onwards, this can help give an idea of how many puppies or kittens will be expected at the time of birth.
This adorable Mum Reign had a belly full of kittens, can you count how many from the radiograph taken?!
If you guessed 7, then you're right! Mum is loving her babies and we can't wait to watch them grow!
Clinic Hours: Monday - Friday 7.30am – 6.30pm Saturday 8.00am – 1.00pm
Telephone: 03 52811 221
OUR VETS
ü Dr. Peter Bond
ü Dr. Kylie Flanagan
ü Dr. Kelly Bond
ü Dr. Keeley Hunter
ü Dr. Hugh Gibson
ü Dr. Charlie Sinclair
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
SOMETHING TO SMILE ABOUT IN BANNOCKBURN!
Six monthly check-ups with your local dentist is a gauranteed way to ensure your smile stays brilliant and your teeth remain healthy with preventitive fluride treatments, dental sealants and early detection of of cavities and gum disease.
GOLDEN
PLAINS DENTAL SERVICE
Book now online at: www.goldenplainsdentalservices.com or call us on (03)4217 3810
Conveniently located in the centre of Banockburn: 5/14 High St, Bannockburn, Vic 3331
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
Dale Smithyman 5281 5486
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
-S E S
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@bigpond.com
44 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.
Advertisements or Editorial contributions should be clearly addressed to:
“Leigh News”, PO Box 247, Inverleigh, Victoria 3321 or leighnews@bigpond.com
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.
News - Advertising Costs from 1st January 2020
Contact: The Editor (Peter Trevaskis) 0407 100 791 leighnews@bigpond.com www.inverleigh.org.au Deadline
• Grading
• Ploughing
• Poly Laying • Post Driving • Grass Slashing • Fertiliser Spreading
• Small Square Bailing • General Maintenance
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
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
We put you first The team at First National Golden Plains working together to achieve for you. great results
IMCO PLUMBING SERVICE
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Simon Mcgillivray Lic: 109610 Freequotes, Fast & Friendly Service
You’re in Safe Hands With Peter Lindeman
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.
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RURAL AND LIFESTYLE SALES MANAGER - ELDERS GEELONG
Located in the New Bannockburn Shopping Centre.
Opening hours:
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- 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
The Hon Dan Tehan Member for Wannon
OPINION
Supporting CFA volunteers at fire services levy protest.
I am deeply concerned about the impact of the Allan State Labor Government’s unfair emergency services levy on my constituents. It threatens to devastate regional Victoria and must be axed.
I joined thousands of Wannon farmers, property owners, CFA volunteers and local council members at the well-attended rally in Melbourne recently to protest the State Government. We were united by a common message: enough is enough.
This Labor Government has spent taxpayers’ money like it grows on trees. They’ve run out of money so now they’re coming after our money to try to plug their budget blackhole. This unfair levy will hurt everyone in my community: farmers will be forced off the farms they have worked for generations; local businesses will suffer from higher taxes and less money in the local economy; and the mental health impact will cascade through families. This isn’t just a budget line—this is real pain for real people.
In my 15 years representing Wannon, I have never seen such disbelief and outrage in the community. Farmers are already under enormous pressure from a second consecutive year of drought, with no end in sight. Older farmers are telling me this levy is the ‘number one worry of their lifetime.’
Labor doesn’t understand regional Australia. They are increasing taxes on the community volunteers who risk their lives to help others during an emergency. How is that going to improve emergency services?
People in Western Victoria look at the billions of dollars the Allan State Labor Government has spent on new tunnels, new train stations and level crossing removals meanwhile they are hit with another new tax. While the South Australian Government recently provided a $73 million support package for its drought-affected farmers, the Victorian Labor Government is increasing costs for those already struggling. This tax is unjust, unnecessary and deeply damaging. The message from regional Victoria is clear: axe the tax.
Photo caption: (From L to R) Richard Gough, Captain Morven Fire Brigade; Cr Adam Campbell, Southern Grampians Shire Council; and Dan Tehan, Member for Wannon.