Leigh News OCTOBER 2025 by Leigh News

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

2025 IPA Meeting Dates

7:30pm at the Inverleigh Public Hall.

APRIL 23rd

MAY 21st

JUNE 18th

JULY 16th

AUGUST 20th

SEPTEMBER 17th

OCTOBER 15th

NOVEMBER 19th

Find us here

Website: https://www.inverleigh.org.au/ipa

Email: inverleighpa@yahoo.com.au

Email: leighnews@inverleigh.org.au

Inverleigh Flower Show 2025

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

Introducing our New Editor-Julia Kennedy

It has been a while since the Inverleigh Progress Association (IPA) needed to find a new editor for their monthly magazine, over ten years infact, but with the retirement of Peter Trevaskis there was a wide search over several months.

Stepping forward is Julia Kennedy and following meeting with leadership of the IPA, there was unanimous decision that Julia was the right choice for the position.

Julia is studying 'journalism' at Deakin University, following in the footsteps of her mother Carolyn, and together with her stepdad Glenn, is receiving strong support and encouragement from both her parents to take on this role.

Working part time at Bunnings to support herself at the moment, the IPA management team feel to ease Julia into the position, hence a change in frequency of editions initially.

In the New Year, there will be seasonal editions starting with March 2026, the Autumn edition, June will be Winter, September will be the Spring edition and December, Summer Edition. Also, with these important change affecting the Leigh News and the IPA in general, there has been a complete rebuild of the website "inverleigh.org.au" and updates have been made to the email accounts as well. The new email address for the Leigh News is "leighnews@inverleigh.org.au". Could you all make note of this important change for future contibutions. The old email address will remain for now and emails will be automatically be forwarded to the new address. More information in the December issue as well, my last as Editor. regards for now, Peter Trevaskis.

'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

BIG NEWS FROM SMALL PLACES! CONGRATULATIONS, INVERLEIGH! TINY TOWN GRANT

When community spirit, hard work and local pride come together great things happen. A Public Hall Expansion Project is under way, thanks to the first round of Tiny Towns Grants. michaela settle@parliament

Settle MP Member for Eureka

Michaela

Golden Plains Soccer Club Update

Golden Plains Soccer Club is reaching new heights, thanks to the incredible support of our members, sponsors and the wider community.

We are thrilled to announce that we have been successful in receiving $17,924 through the Berrybank Wind Farm Community Grant. This vital funding has provided a major boost for our club supporting much-needed facility upgrades, essential equipment purchases and the installation of an outdoor defibrillator which will be accessible to the entire community. With this grant, we are buying:

•Outdoor defibrillator and training

•Pavilion signage

•Moveable change room signage

•Line marking machine along with 10x10L paint drum

•Digital measuring wheel

•6m x 3m branded marquee

•Electric blower, trimmer, and edger

•Cordless vacuum

In addition to this incredible grant, we have also received generous donations from within our club community. Two families have kindly donated 11-fold-out bench seats for our players to use on game days. Another two families have come up with a fantastic idea to introduce a club mascot and have contributed funds toward bringing “Eddy the Eagle” to life. A thoughtful grandmother is also donating endof-year trophies for our Presentation Day on Sunday, 12th October.

We are deeply grateful to our

members and supporters for their generosity, creativity, and ongoing commitment. With new sponsors joining us and many individuals volunteering their time to coach, referee, clean, manage the canteen, set up equipment, and capture moments for promotion, our club continues to thrive, driven by a strong spirit of teamwork and community.

On the field, our players are also shining. Four of our Geelong Representative players will be representing Golden Plains Soccer Club at the Western United Cup in Ballarat on the 3rd-5th of October and the Mt Eliza Cup on the 19th of October. This is a wonderful achievement that speaks to their talent and commitment.

We are incredibly proud to share that two of our Under 13 Girls will travel to Singapore in October to compete in the SingaCup 2025. Teaming up with players from Barwon Heads SC and Ocean Grove SC, they will represent our region on the international stage. This is truly an exciting opportunity for the girls!

We have launched new initiatives to support player development.

Continued over the page...

Club Mascot

Eddy the Eagle

Golden Plains Soccer Club Update

Our weekly goalkeeping clinics with local talent Tom Hinder are now underway.

Tom began his soccer journey at Golden Plains in 2015, and we are delighted to have him back this time sharing his experience and skills with the next generation of goalkeepers.

In another exciting step, we have partnered with Western United Soccer Club to deliver a school holiday program right here at Golden Plains. Kicking off on the 22nd of September, it is yet another fantastic opportunity to bring skills, learning, and fun to the local community. We are proud of our Eaglet Program, created in collaboration with local early learning centres Bright Minds and Nature Learn and Play. This program introduces young children to the joy of soccer, and it has been a hit with the little ones creating a lot of fun and laughter.

As we enter the final weeks of the current season, excitement is brewing as we have multiple teams from our Junior to Seniors competing for a spot in the finals!

Our Miniroo’s have formed friendships within their teams and have shown an abundance of improvement as the season has evolved.

Once the official season ends there will still be plenty of ways to stay involved such as holiday programs, specialised clinics, tournaments, and the Summer Masters League.

The Masters tournament is a not-forprofit competition for men aged 35+ which promotes inclusiveness, mental health and fun. We hosted two weekends of Masters games last January to show our support for this great cause and showcase our facilities to the broader region. We look forward to cheering our players that are involved this coming Summer. Expressions of interest for the 2026 season are now open!

Whether you are a child, teenager, Mum, Dad, or someone simply looking to get involved now is the perfect time to reach out. Email us at info@goldenplainssc.com.au and a committee member will be in touch.

Do not forget to follow the Golden Plains Soccer Club Facebook page for updates on our free Come and Try Days for kids and seniors Men and Women, plus the latest news on games, events, and community opportunities.

Go Eagles!

Donna Mott, President Golden Plains Soccer Club

Inverleigh Flower Show- Events Catagories

Inverleigh

F L O W E R S H O W

F l o w e r S h o w O p e n i n g N i g h t 6 p m F r i d a y 3 1 O c t o b e r s t

M a r k e t & F l o w e r S h o w 9 a m - 3 p m S a t u r d a y 1 N o v s t

I n v e r l e i g h h o t e l h i s t o r i c s t a b l e s & m a r q u e e

F l o w e r S h o w E n t r y & T i c k e t s a l e s o n l i n e

h t t p s : / / i n v e r l e i g h f l o w e r s h o w . s q u a r e . s i t e /

F r i d a y 3 1 O c t o b e r b e t w e e n 9 a m - 4 p m s t

N o l a t e e n t r i e s a f t e r 4 p m c u t o f f 3 1 / 1 0 / 2 0 2 5

Date: Monday 15 September 2025

BATTLE OF THE BANDS IS BACK!

Golden Plains Shire Council is thrilled to host the Golden Plains Youth Battle of the Bands competition on Saturday 4 October from 3 to 6pm at the Bannockburn Cultural Centre.

Battle of the Bands is a competition of young up and coming artists showcasing a variety of genres on the centre stage. Bands will battle it out in front of a live audience to be named the winner of Battle of the Bands 2025.

Presented by the Amplify Committee with support from Council’s Youth Development team, the competition is designed to support emerging bands by providing a safe and inclusive opportunity to perform in front of a live audience.

Golden Plains Shire Mayor Cr Owen Sharkey encouraged community members to attend the event.

“Battle of the Bands has proven a great success over recent years, and we’re excited to be able to deliver it again in 2025,” Cr Sharkey said.

“ This is your chance to come along and hear from a range of diﬀerent bands who will be showcasing their talents and performing for the ultimate glory – being crowned the winner of Battle of the Bands 2025. I look forward to seeing you there.”

The Battle of the Bands competition is funded by Amplify, a Victorian Government initiative that supports young people to lead the planning, development and delivery of safe, youth-friendly events for young Victorians aged 12 to 25. This is an all-ages, fully supervised event with strictly no pass outs.

Food options will be available at the event. To register to attend, visit goldenplains.vic.gov.au/events. This is a free ticketed event with tickets available through Eventbrite.

For further information, contact Council’s Youth Development team at youth@gplains.vic.gov.au or call 5220 7111.

ENDS –

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

Media contact: Georgia Stefanovski, Advisor, Communications & Engagement, Golden Plains Shire Council P. 5220 7187 │ M. 0402 381 801 │E. georgia.stefanovski@gplains.vic.gov.au

Look forward to seeing you all this Saturday 11th October for a fabulous Spring Food Swap.

All the action from 9:30am - 10 am - ish, at Sonny, 15a High Street, Inverleigh.

Also, we have an opportunity to be involved in the Inverleigh Flower Show Community Market on Saturday the 1st November. It would be an extra Food Swap for us, and it would be great to have everyone involved. We might even make a bit of a roster for the day - if there are people who would like to volunteer to be at the Food Swap table - I'd love to hear from you. (we'll have a signup sheet at Food Swap this weekend).

Set up would be from 8am on Sat 1st November.

Are you a Seed Saver?

The Flower Show will have a station for children to do seed planting that weekend, and would love to accept donations of seeds that have been saved locally.Please feel free to bring them along to our monthly swap, and we can pass them along or we can work out a way to funnel them back to the Flower Show working group.

Thanks everyone, Bec Wilson.

Public Artwork Proposed for Inverleigh

Local artist and sculptor Mark Cuthbertson has generously offered to donate one of his larger artworks for public display in Inverleigh.

The proposed work features two cast-concrete kangaroos, each mounted on steel base plates and standing around 3.5 metres tall. The current plan is to install the sculptures in Lawson Park – the riverside park across the highway from the Inverleigh Hotel.

To complement the work, a thick planting of native grasses will surround the sculptures, helping them blend with the broader landscape and enhance the park’s natural appeal.

The sculptures promise to become a striking and distinctive Inverleigh landmark – sparking interest in public art and offering enjoyment to both locals and visitors, whether viewed up close in the park or glimpsed in passing from the road.

The Inverleigh Progress Association supports the project and is keen to hear from the community.

If you have a comment, suggestion, or question about the proposal, please send it to: Secretary@inverleigh.org.au

12 Leigh News

September 2025 Calendar article DUMPED CARS AND ACACIA PARADOXA

The September photo in the Historical Society 2025 calendar shows a rusty old EH Holden, abandoned in the Inverleigh Nature Conservation Reserve (also often referred to as ‘The Common’). Over many years, cars have occasionally been dumped in the Reserve, a practice that has continued sporadically, even up until last year.

In the early 1990s it is believed that the Inverleigh Leigh Valley Lions Club worked in conjunction with the Geelong 4-Wheel Drive Club to clear out the numerous dumped cars from the Reserve and to clean up the mess left behind.

But what’s the story of the car in this photo?

The Inverleigh Nature Conservation Reserve is afflicted with the presence of a very prickly shrub/small tree called Acacia paradoxa. Sixty years ago, it was present in only small numbers, mostly in the eastern part of the Reserve. Although this species occurs naturally in many parts of Victoria, it is thought that this particular variety was brought here, possibly from Kangaroo Island, to be planted as a hedge or shelter tree. It has since spread aggressively throughout much of the Reserve and, in some areas, it has become completely dominant, excluding all other plants. This process has been accelerated in some parts of the Reserve after a couple of controlled burns got out of control, killing lots of eucalyptus trees and allowing rampant germination of Acacia paradoxa.

Unlike many wattles, this species germinates readily without needing to be burnt, damaged or subjected to smoke. If you walk in the Reserve, you will

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

see how most clumps of paradoxa have numerous young plants growing up beside them, gradually but relentlessly spreading out. Seeds can be spread to new places by ants.

Over the past twenty years, Parks Victoria has contracted companies to mulch some of the areas where almost nothing but the prickly wattle was growing, particularly in the eastern and southern parts of the Reserve. Specialised machines drive very slowly through the areas of paradoxa, reducing them to chips.

This car remained hidden amongst the Acacia for perhaps thirty years or more until it was uncovered last year by a mulching machine clearing an area south of the Carrah Track, just a five-minute walk from the Common Road entrance to the Reserve. Keith Windle

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.

"Common" Treasure

Photo: Keith Windle

October 2025 Calendar article

Always a surprise at St Paul’s

The Surprise Shop commenced in the mid 1980’s in the centre shop of the building next to the fire shed, a shopfront house owned by Mary Reed. It has been an outreach of the Anglican church for over 40 years.

It was called the Surprise Shop rather than ‘the op shop’ because what is found inside, is always a surprise. The first carers were Glad Muschialli and May Hooper, later joined by Mary Reed and Betty Spitty. The takings paid the building insurance and fixed the verandah on the building, and the profits were used for special maintenance needs within the parish and our mission contributions. Originally opening twice a week it was especially popular for ‘dress-up’ costumes and the young girls in the town spent hours looking at the jewellery collection.

Under the leadership of Rev. George Charles, the shop was moved to the church grounds and a small room was added to the 1889 Sunday School with the vision that items would be stored in there and wheeled out into the main room on shop days. In no time the shop had taken over half the area and after the Sunday School closed, it expanded into all the space.

All the merchandise comes from local donations and current opening times are Tuesday, Friday and Saturday mornings. If additional volunteers were available the hours would be expanded

Electrical goods cannot be sold or any equipment with safety standards especially baby items. Large pieces of furniture are difficult to handle and store and so the staff concentrate on good quality, clean clothing and household items and books.

Don’t forget to pop in for a surprise.

You will be glad you did! Liz McDonald.

OUR LOCAL REMEMBRANCE DAY AN EXTRA SPECIAL ONE THIS YEAR

Every year, Leigh News readers are privileged to have their own, local Remembrance Day Service held at the Inverleigh Cenotaph by our very own local RSL's members.

The event, marked across the Commonwealth, marks the end of the hostilities of World War 1, at 11 a.m. on the 11th day of the 11th month - the moment when ’the guns fell silent'. It was said and hoped at the time to have been 'the war to end all wars’ - but history has ignored that ambition.

INVERLEIGH & DISTRICT RSL Sub-Branch INC INVITES ALL TO OUR REMEMBRANCE DAY (11TH NOVEMBER 2025) SERVICE

Remembrance Day Service at Inverleigh Cenotaph on the corner of Hamilton Hwy & Railway St Commencing at 10:30 am

Dedication and Opening of the Veterans Memorial Interactive Pathway at Inverleigh RSL Commencing at 11:30 am

This year’s activity will feature a bugler, a bagpiper, a Tiger Moth flyover and - importantly - the participation of several local school children in the Order of Service. After the Service, everyone is invited back to the RSL rooms at 63 High Street, Inverleigh.

Then there will be a public Dedication and Opening of the

RSL's new Veterans Memorial Interactive Pathway, complete with 270 inscribed bricks purchased by many local families and businesses.

More than half of the bricks commemorate the military ancestors of many long-standing families of our district.

There will also be a 'Field of Tribute Poppies' for the 143 local men who volunteered to fight ‘For King, Country and Family’ in World War 1. Of these 17 were Killed In Action, and another 10 Died Of Wounds - these 27 will be remembered with a white cross, and the 116 who returned home will each be marked with a white post. All 143 will have a hand-knitted red Poppy fixed to their markers.

RSL Inverleigh warmly invites everyone to attend the Service (from 10:30 a.m.) and the Dedication (from 11:30 a.m.), lay your own Poppy, pay your respects, and Remember Them.

St. Paul's Surprise Shop

Photo: Liz McDonald.

Due to popular demand, piano man Rohan Windle will be back at the

Inverleigh Public Hall on Friday Oct 24th!

Book your tickets now as this will be sure to be a sell out like last time. It was such a great night.

Tables of 10, or request to be on a mixed table.

Inverleighhallpianobar.eventbrite.com.au Inquiries: 0403 267 286

Old Bottle Treasures

A Free Public Talk by Tony Keunen, hosted by Inverleigh Historical Society.

‘Like treasure hunting & amateur archaeology – collecting old bottles is a fascinating hobby’

Wednesday November 26th 2.00 pm, Inverleigh Public Hall

Tony, a Teesdale resident, began collecting bottles as a lad with his father and brother in the 1970s. His talk will include:

•Identifying collectible old bottles

•Examples of different types of bottles and stories about special finds

•Historic changes, trends and special features

•Question time

Bring along your special bottles to show Tony. He has extensive knowledge to share with you all. Inquiries and RSVP:

Inverleigh Historical Society, Christine: 0403 267 286

Pictured above: Tony Keunen

Tiny Towns Grant - Celebration Time

Everyone is invited!

Join us to celebrate the completion of our Victorian Government Tiny Towns Grant project – Inverleigh Public Hall Capacity Expansion Project – shed, paths and shelter - which will enable a greater diversity of people, events and activities to use the Inverleigh Public Hall. When: Wednesday 22nd October, 3.30 – 5.00 pm. Where: Inverleigh Public Hall

This free event will include a brief ceremony during which Michaela Settle MP will open our new storage and shelter facilities, and we will all enjoy a delicious country afternoon tea.

RSVP by October 15th October to Christine, 0403 267 286, for catering purposes.

The Inverleigh Public Hall Committee, on behalf of our community, is extremely grateful to the Tiny Towns Fund which is an initiative of the Victorian State Government Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions. In 2024 the Inverleigh Public Hall Committee received a $50,000 grant towards our project, ‘Inverleigh Public Hall Capacity Expansion Project’. Our aim is to increase the limited hall storage with a fully sealed, insulated 6 X 9 metre shed with a 3.75 metre widegaraport entry and 1.5 metre concrete pathway access. This enables us to clear out areas of the hall, such as the stage and dressing rooms which have stored

books for our book bazaar and open them up for their intended and new uses. The garaport provides entry to the shed and is also a sheltered activity area within the enclosed backyard.

We received a great deal of support for this project and we sincerely thank Michaela Settle MP, Libby Coker MP, Eric Braslis, then CEO of Golden Plains Shire, Golden Plains Shire officers Ben Middleton and Akemi Kida, the Inverleigh Progress Association, the Inverleigh Historical Society, the Inverleigh Senior Citizens Club and the Inverleigh Playgroup for their assistance and support letters, and the Inverleigh Progress Association for its contribution of $5000.

This is a very proud moment for the nine volunteer members of the Inverleigh Public Hall Committee. We consulted with community members and hall users to establish the need and the project vision, raised funds, and put in hours and hours to successfully apply for the grant, manage the project and provide our inkind contribution.

We look forward to many people of all ages joining us to help celebrate this moment of achievement, of appreciation for the Tiny Towns Grant, and of new opportunities for our community.

Christine Windle, Secretary, Inverleigh Public Hall Committee

Back to Steiglitz Reunion Program of events

26th October 10- 3pm

10am – Public buildings open

- @ Historic St Thomas’ Catholic Church: Art exhibi6on + Children’s art display

- @ St Paul’s: Spinning & weaving demonstra6ons/ Quilt display /Historical records & photo display/ Vintage cars/ Lace making

- @ the original Blacksmith’s co<age: Home baked goodies served with tea & coﬀee / Plant Stall / Kids games

10.30am - Sausage sizzle (un6l sold out)

11am - Town History Walk

11.30am - Poetry recital

12.00 - “The Inklings” from the Newport Fiddle & Folk Club @Suggs CoUage

12.30 pm- Cemetery Walk 1pm - Gum Boot toss

- Public Art Performance - Poetry recital

1.30pm - Raﬄe draw/ Oldest - youngest compe66on 2pm - Wildﬂower Walk

- Yukulele group 3pm - Finish

Any enquiries Please Contact us at: back2steiglitz@hotmail.com Or phone Lindy 0470 208 086

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.

INVERLEIGH FLOWER SHOW 2025 Marquee&Stables–InverleighHotel MelbourneCupLongWeekend

full weekend of flowers, food, music & community! 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

18 Leigh News

Inverleigh Nature Conservation Reserve

Plants in our Reserve - The Silver Banksia

There’s only a very small pocket of Silver Banksia tucked up on the Northern side of the Inverleigh Nature Conservation Reserve, but as soon as you come across them, they stick out. They are totally different in shape and colour to the gums, wattles and sheoaks which dominate the rest of the bush.

The big yellow flowers stand out like bright fruit or candles amongst all the other grey and green. Their dense foliage and stout form make them unique to look at among all the other tall and stringy trees. Aside from being beautiful to look at, it is also a tree with many uses, and offers a lot of value to your garden to enjoy at each of its stages.

Just before they were fully opened, the stiff stamens meant that First Nations people were able to use them as hairbrushes. Once the flowers were open fully, First Nations people could use them to make a refreshing drink, soaking the freshly opened flowers in water to make a sweet, sugary drink that was known to give an energy boost! As the flowers aged and got a little more wispy, they could be used for painting and are a known tool of rock art paintings. The dried flowers were then used to help transfer the embers of a fire from one camp to the next, so they go well in the fire box! Whilst the solid curved limbs of the tree were known for making good boomerangs, I’d suggest that buying one might be easier for beginners. An even easier thing might be to bring a limb or some flowers inside for a vase or table setting.

The trees, aside from their uses to people, are of huge value to the local wild life. Obviously, the nectar is a huge draw for birds, bugs and insects, but is also a great food source to the micro bats and possums that come through when the sun has gone down. Once they

get big enough to see, expect to have the Yellow Tailed Black Cockatoos visit. To help bring them into your yard and feed the locals, always try to plant a few, rather than just the one

These plants are naturally adapted to live in our area and will do well, straight into the ground. But there’s some notes that will help it thrive. They do best in an open, sunny or partly shaded position (think four hours of direct sun a day). They will cope with a whole bunch of soils and spots, but somewhere not too wet is good. Buying from a local indigenous nursery (like GenU in Swanston St, Geelong) will make it likely to be more adaptable here.

Best of luck, you should have smooth hair and plenty of energy by next season.

Ben McCarthy

The Friends of Inverleigh Nature Conservation Reserve will hold two of their popular bird walks in spring – October 12 and November 9. Details of where to meet closer to the dates in the Leigh News and our facebook page. All enquiries to Keith Windle 0429 651 298

MAKE GPAA YOUR ACCOUNTANT

20 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.

22 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 October. Spring has sprung and the weather is on the improve, ever so slightly. We, at the Golden Pens – Write Side Up group are looking forward to working with the new editor of the Inverleigh Newsletter as we embrace new challenges and ideas going forward. As this is the penultimate issue for Peter Trevaskis, we would like to join the many in wishing Peter all the best in the future, but more about that next issue.

This month’s ditty is from Karen Naylor, who left us for a bit, but found she couldn’t live without us and she has returned, and we are very happy about that. You could find out why she came back by joining us every Thursday fortnight at the Bannockburn library at 1:30 til 3:00 pm, our Oct meetings are on the 9th and 23rd. you would be most welcome.

Until then we hope you enjoy our writings.

Cheers, Wendy.

Tomorrow

I sit at my window and wonder why

Birds fly and travel the sky

And why do I sit and ponder this

I am not alone as I look to the sky

A man I see in a cotton wool tie

Soft wind rustles the leaves

And an apple drops to the ground

Nature at no cost to me

I wonder again if Uber came

How much my apple would be

Have you noticed that birds sing in tune

And why is it that I can’t sing or fly?

And yet I still manage to get by

I might come back as a bird

But one in a house without a cat

I think of a future I may not see

And wonder what on earth it could be

New wonders for others

To find on their own

While I still haven’t mastered my phone

Will you travel on a ship to mars

Or stay in bed and travel in your head

Will your babies come in a bottle

Will your cars still have a throttle

I wonder this and more

I’d like to look into the future and see

Just how resilient the next generation can be

What is left that is unknown

It only takes a few with a clue

To make amazing things come true.

24 Leigh News POLICE REPORT FOR SEPTEMBER &

Hello all,

It has been a bit of a busy time recently in the township and surrounds.

Recently around 2.40 pm on a Sunday afternoon I detected a driver speeding in front of me and crossing over the centre line on the Inverleigh-Shelford Road. I intercepted the driver who hadn’t noticed me travelling behind him and he ended up giving a positive PBT and a subsequent breath test above .13 and is facing a summons for court. The driver had driven from the Melbourne CBD and had got all the way down here before I came across him.

I also detected another local from a surrounding suburb on a Saturday night around 8 pm doing 92 in the 60 km/h zone heading across the Leigh River bridge out of town who also went positive on the PBT and had a breathalyser result near .1. The driver received a 6 month licence suspension.

Drivers detected with a Breath/Blood alcohol level of 0.05 or more are fined and lose their licence. In addition, they are required to complete a behaviour change program and have an alcohol interlock device fitted to their car after regaining their licence.

Drivers over .1 can also have their vehicle impounded for a month and face impoundment costs over $1000. If you are out drinking think about the consequences if you are caught driving under the influence.

As the weather has been improving especially on weekends I have been finding a lot of drivers including from overseas and interstate excessively speeding on the roads. I recently got international drivers one doing 149 and another 142 km/h in rental cars and an interstate driver doing 142 also in a rental car all on the Hamilton Hwy between Inverleigh and Cressy. I also detected a commuting worker between Melbourne and Warrnambool doing 96 in the 60 zone approaching the Leigh river bridge driving on a suspended licence also in a rental vehicle. All drivers faced between 3 and 6 month licence disqualification/suspensions and one has a future court date. Please be careful on the roads, this above is just of some of the behaviours I am detecting on your local roads.

Leading up to Christmas please do not buy your children electric scooters they cannot be ridden in public places on roads/footpaths under 16 years old.

Fines for electric scooters:

Ride electric scooter on footpath $305

Ride electric scooter under 16 $305

Carry person on electric scooter $254

Rider of electric scooter no helmet $407

Passenger on electric scooter no helmet $651

I recently gave some scooter infringements to two people on one scooter riding on footpath without helmets in Bannockburn. Please don’t let it be your child in future. There have been too many injury incidents with electric scooter riders. Also don’t allow your kids to have electric bikes which don’t comply with the rules (add on kits etc). Basically if they can use it without pedalling and the motor is greater than 250

watts. The riders of illegal e bikes are subject to the same rules as motorcycles (licensing/registration etc). There have been numerous riders and pedestrians injured and even killed on these vehicles including one in a nearby country town recently reported.

Parks Victoria and I have also been getting numerous complaints of youths on trail bikes riding around the local roads and in the common and other parks.

From Parks Victoria website: Can children ride trail bikes on public land? No. Riding anywhere on public land in Victoria requires a motorcycle licence or learner permit. Fines for unlicensed riding: $1018, unregistered motorcycle over 61cc: $611.

Now it has come to my attention that some of these youths are filming themselves doing all kinds of stunts and riding dangerously on roads including the Hamilton and even the Midland Hwy, where traffic can be seen in the footage. I am dumbfounded that youths are riding while using their phones to film other youths riding beside them doing mono’s and other stunts on major highways and then they are posting it on TikTok and alike where other youths from the area are also praising them and their stunts. Thanks to the postings and their links to each other I now have images of them, their clothing they wear, their helmet colours and their bikes including distinctive colourings and stickers as well as the evidence of them riding unlicensed and unregistered in the common and the various roads and am slowly getting around to all their parents to inform them of their children’s illegal behaviour and the consequences they face.

If your child has a motorcycle make sure it doesn’t leave your property without you taking them somewhere legal to ride, you allowed them to have it you should make time to give them somewhere legal to ride and teach them to obey not disregard the law and be aware fleeing police is also a serious offence.

Be aware I am also receiving a lot of photos/footage from concerned residents of numerous kids on the motorcycles on the roads and in the common and can prosecute/ fine offenders from this footage especially now I have most of the identities of these youths and their bikes/helmets/ clothing from their and their friends postings.

I have also been finding while walking as well as seeing a lot of posts on local social media of dogs that are getting out of premises and either roaming or charging at other dogs/walkers etc. Please make sure your fencing is sufficient for your animal. There can be expensive fines for dogs roaming/charging etc when out of your property. Also be aware sometimes police, delivery drivers etc need access to your front door and having an aggressive dog roaming the whole property/front yard can lead to an issue and action being taken against the owner of the dog.

Keep safe, Chris.

From the Mayor’s Desk

October 2025

It’s been a great start to Spring here in Golden Plains, with several new initiatives and familiar faces making an impact on our community.

We’re delighted to welcome our new CEO, Adam McSwain to Golden Plains Shire Council. Adam has already made a fantastic impression, and my fellow Councillors and I are excited to work with him to achieve great things for our community now and into the future.

We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our new-look Golden Plains Shire Council Community Awards. This is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate and thank the incredible local heroes who do so much for our

GOLDEN PLAINS SHIRE COUNCIL

community here in Golden Plains.

Nominations for the 2026 Community Awards opened on Wednesday 1 October and are available in four categories: Community Hero of the Year, Senior Community Hero of the Year, Young Community Hero of the Year and Community Group Award.

Your nominations will help us celebrate the hard work, passion, and dedication that makes our community so special. I highly encourage residents to nominate an individual or community group that truly make a difference in the community. Nominations can be made up until 5pm, Friday 28 November 2025 at goldenplains.vic.gov.au/ consultations

The Golden Plains Shire Council Gazette has officially moved to digitalonly delivery, starting with the most recent publication that was sent out on Monday 29 September.

As a result of this, Council’s eGazette e-newsletter will be discontinued to reduce duplication and enhance the delivery of streamlined communication.

We understand this change may take a little getting used to, and we’d like to

Be part of the Active Golden Plains Sport & Rec Fest!

Calling all sporting clubs, recreation organisations and community groups – Council is seeking Expressions of Interest (EOI) for you to take part in the Active Golden Plains Sport & Rec Fest (the Rec fest)!

This is your chance to host a demonstration, interactive activity, ‘come and try’ session, display or other activity for residents of all ages,

NEWS

thank the community for their support as we made this transition. To sign up to receive the Gazette directly in your email inbox, visit goldenplains.vic.gov. au/form/e-gazette.

Your input is crucial and we have several projects currently open for public consultation.

We encourage you to visit our “Have Your Say” page to learn more about important initiatives, like the Revised Budget, Elizabeth Street (Smythesdale) Disposal & Acquisition of Land, Expressions of Interest for the Active Golden Plains Sport & Rec Fest, and of course the Community Awards. You can visit our Have Your Say page to find out more about these initiatives: goldenplains.vic.gov.au/ consultations

Lastly, the Victorian Seniors Festival officially kicked off this month with a number of free and low-cost events happening across the Shire. To find out what’s on, contact us on 5220 7111 or email enquiries@gplains.vic.gov.au.

Yours in community, Owen Sharkey Mayor

genders and abilities across the Shire. The Rec Fest will be held across two different locations on:

• Saturday 21 February 2026 from 10am to 1pm at the Woady Yaloak Recreation Reserve, Smythesdale

• Saturday 14 March 2026 from 10am to 1pm at the Recreation Precinct Soccer Pavilion, Bannockburn

EOIs are invited until 5pm, Friday 31 October 2025, and can be submitted at goldenplains.vic.gov.au/ consultations

26 Leigh News

On Tuesday September the 16th Mr T came to South Geelong Primary School to tell us a little bit about newspapers. Because my class has been learning about newspapers and have been writing some ourselves. Mr T said that he had been editing newspapers for 10 years. Wow. He showed us some of the newspapers he’s done in the past. He showed us the one he’s working on right now. He used to work as an air conditioner person at hotels and hospitals over time but then retired and

"The visitor"

Hello, Today I’m going to be talking about 3/4P with Mr.T . We were all very excited about him coming because he is an expert of newspapers. Here at SGPS we want to know all of the facts we can get. He came to our school because he wants to share his knowledge and what he knows with us. We learnt about how he makes newspapers and how you can use different apps and things to help you make a newspaper. We have been learning about news reporting in class so it kind of helped with our learning. Did you know that before Mr T became a newspaper man he was an air conditioning man. He would do it for hospitals and hotels and other big places. He showed all of us how to edit and get text boxes and size. It includes a bit of Maths in it too. He is not there to get paid he is just a visitor who is very good at publishing. We all learnt a lot of things which we are very happy about so we hope he can come back soon. submitted by Maple

became a newspaper editor. He is also Henry’s grandfather. Henry is a boy in my class, and he was really happy to see his grandpa. The 2025 magazine/news report is going to be the last one he does. After he retired from his first job he said that he wanted to keep his mind working. Then one day someone came up to his house and knocked on his door and said, would you like to edit the Leigh News? and he said yes. It was so fun learning about newspapers it was awesome that Mr T could come to our school.

submitted by Millie

Mr. T comes to south Geelong primary school to teach 3/4P On the 16th of the 9th 2025, it was a normal day at South Geelong Primary School then Mr.T came in to teach us about newspaper. He is a news editor. He is also a grandfather to one of our students. We learnt about how he edits and what he writes about. He explained how 750 copies are printed out of one newspaper. It was a really fun experience to have and even at the end we got to keep one of his newspapers that he edited, there was so many different kinds of newspapers about all different things. He does not get paid for his job. He is a volunteer. It does not bother him though. In class we have been learning how to be a news reporter and editor so it was a great chance for him to come to our class so we can learn more and what we can do to improve on our newspaper writing and what we can do in the future. In the end I think we learnt a lot.

submitted by Mila

INVERLEIGH CFA NEWS

Are You Fire Ready?

Here is a great opportunity for anybody to come and learn about becoming fire ready for this coming summer fire danger period. We will be holding this event at the skate park so that if you walk to bring the children, they could play while attending our presentation. We will have presentations and information handouts available to help you decide, prepare and implement your fire plan and property preparedness. There will be people available to discuss all aspects of the upcoming fire season.

If you are a new resident or land owner or even somebody who has been here a long time then please come along and learn as much as possible about the fire risks in our community. Everybody is welcome.

Ewen Peel Inverleigh Fire Brigade.

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

Renovations at St. Joseph's Parish-Inverleigh

Whilst driving through town you may have noticed an array of paint colours splashed on the outside of the Iocal Catholic church. Much overdue renovations on Inverleigh’s, Sacred Heart Catholic Church have begun.

The internal painting of the building is complete and has really lightened up the church. We are very grateful the Spina family who have donated their time to do the job. In planning the painting works, parishioners and painters have been careful to retain the architectural features of the building.

The church is yet to be recarpeted, but once this is done, it will keep the church warmer in the winter months. There are also plans to have the outside of the church painted once the colours have councils’ approval. A path is also planned for the front of the church.

Our young and vibrant parish priest, Father Joseph Panackal, is much loved by his congregation for his kindness and charisma and the wonderful message of hope in Jesus Christ that he delivers.

At Inverleigh’s Sacred Heart Church you will find a welcoming faith filled community, the message of truth, and following the service, connections over a cuppa and a party pie or a scone.

All are welcome!

Come and check it out!

Next upcoming services: Oct 19th and Nov 16th at 4pm, Sacred Heart Church, Inverleigh. Rachel Anderson

When looking to paint the church, it was discovered that there was termite damage. The termite inspector stated that this was extensive to the subflooring and was just caught in time to save the church. One of our Inverleigh local parishioners has just replaced some bearers, wall framing and weatherboards.

Just as the Inverleigh RSL was recently painted and given a new lease of life, it is going to be great to see another historical gem, in our beautiful town of Inverleigh, given some tender loving care. It is wonderful to see our historical buildings restored and revived for generations to come.

Although the Inverleigh Sacred Heart Church was closed for services over a period of 8 years from 2008, services have been back up and running since 2015 with mass held on the 3rd Sunday of each month at 4pm.

Our church community is made up of all ages and includes both Catholics and those from other Christian faith backgrounds. There may be people who have never stepped foot inside a church but are searching for something to fill the God shaped hole in their heart. The Sacred Heart community welcomes everyone.

History of Sacred Heart Church-Inverleigh.

Submitted to the Leigh News, November 2010. by Liz McDonald.

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

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 –OCTOBER 2025

Winchelsea - St. John the Baptist @ 5pm Sat. OCT. 4, 11, 18, 25

Meredith – St. Joseph @ 9am Sun. OCT. 5, 19.

Bannockburn – St. Mary MacKillop @ 11am Sun. OCT. 5, 12, 19, 26

Inverleigh – Sacred Heart – @ 4pm Sun. OCT. 19

And for NOVEMBER 2025

Winchelsea - St. John the Baptist @ 5pm Sat. NOV. 1, 8, 15, 29

Meredith – St. Joseph @ 9am NOV. 2, 16, 23, 30.

Bannockburn –

St. Mary MacKillop @ 11am Sun. NOV. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Inverleigh – Sacred Heart – @ 4pm Sun. NOV. 16.

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

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

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

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

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

36 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.

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!

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

Southern Farming Systems invites all farmers, agronomists, and industry professionals to AGRIFOCUS 2025—the leading technical event for high rainfall zone farming systems. This year’s event will be held at the SFS Streatham trial site in South-West Victoria on Wednesday, 15 October.

AGRIFOCUS 2025 offers a unique opportunity to access the latest research, see innovative trials in action, and hear from leading experts in the field. Whether you’re looking to improve crop performance, manage soil health, or explore new technologies, this is a field day not to be missed!

The trials featured on the day will include: Herbicides

•Herbicide matrix: actives, crop safety & efficacy

Disease, Varieties & Fungicides

•Barley variety disease resistance:fungicide use & time of sowing effects

•VIMOY® iblon®: Bayer's new fungicide for wheat and barley disease control

•Wheat variety disease resistance: fungicide use & time of sowing effects

Varieties

•RAGT oat variety evaluation

Nutrition Nitrogen

•Nitrogen management: timings, product selection & response curves

•YaraVita BRASSITREL PRO micronutrient timing for canola resilience & yield

•Enhancing canola & wheat performance with Active AgriScience products

Soils and Soil Acidity

•Streatham soil pit profile & insights

•Lime strategies for soil acidity management in lentils

Pulses & Faba Beans

•Pulse varieties: benchmarking for nutrient value & quality

•Faba bean agronomy: time of sowing & seeding depth effects

Canola.

•Canola varieties: time of sowing & seeding depth effects

Farming Systems – Rotations, Crop Selection

•Farming Systems South: putting it together - crop selection, rotation, time of sowing & nitrogen learnings so far.

Exhibits & Demonstrations

Plus exhibits from our partners, including machinery from Premier Partner Swayn and McCabe Claas Harvest Centre – AMAZONE ZA-TS Spreader & the Vaderstad Topdown, Knuckey Agriculture, Drones – CITRA-FARM Drones, RAGT, Riordan Grain Services, Ag Logic, AGF Seeds, Active AgriScience, Alvan Balnch, Farming IT, Gorst Rural, Loam Bio,Mobble, SLTEC Fertilizers, SubGro, Agriculture Victoria Victorian Drought Innovation Hub and more.

“If you are farming in the high rainfall zone, this is a field day not to be missed! To have access to research trials in your own backyard is priceless” said Michelle McClure, AgriFocus Coordinator.

AGRIFOCUS is in its’ fifteenth year pushing the farming system boundaries for the High Rainfall Zone. Southern Farming Systems looks forward to seeing you there!

For more information and to book your ticket’s go to, sfs.org.au/events

Inverleigh

40 Leigh News

IN OTHER NEWS

Prescription Medication

To save you time, when ordering repeat medications for your pet, ring the clinic first so our team can review your file, order medication if necessary and prepare them for pick up.

A veterinarian has to ok all prescription medication dispensed - so if they are in consultations, surgery or not available we may not be able to fill your prescription on the spot. A phone call will save you having to wait if the vet is busy.

Sometimes a blood, urine sample or re-visit may be required before more medication is dispensed.

If you require more medication for you pet please call the clinic on 52811221.

Entropion in Lambs

This is a common disorder where the lower eyelid (and sometimes the upper eyelid) rolls inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the cornea. This can lead to irritation, corneal ulceration, and even blindness if left untreated. It's often noticed by excessive tearing or squinting in the first few weeks of life and if it has been rubbing significantly, the cornea may be damaged with an ulcer.

Little Andy was orphaned and his carers noticed this condition with his lower eyelid. So we did what is known as a temporary tack, which means we rolled the lower eyelid out and held it with some sutures. This stops the irritation and gives Andy a bit of time for his face to grow into his skin. Often there is no need for permanent surgery. Two weeks later his eyelids were sitting normally.

Rabbit Calicivirus Vaccination

An annual vaccination is essential to protect pet rabbits against the highly fatal Calicivirus which causes a haemorrhagic viral disease.

Calicivirus is prevalent in the Australian wild rabbit population and is an approved population control strategy.

Rabbit Calicivirus Disease is a potentially life threatening disease that can affect a rabbit within 12-18 hours. It is a virus with a high mortality rate and nearly 100% of rabbits die from the disease.

The first vaccination is administered at the age of 10 weeks followed by a booster one month later. After this initial course, an annual booster is required. If you would like to book an appointment for your rabbit please call reception on 52811221.

Guinea Pig Pocket Pets

Guinea pigs make great pets especially for children. They are originally from South America and come in several different breeds with a variety of colours and coat lengths. It is estimated there are 300,000 guinea pigs owned in Australia.

They weigh around 1kg and can live up to 5 or 6 years but have been known to live longer. They are highly social animals and should not be kept alone. They are happiest if they are at least in a pair. If females and males are together it is recommended to de-sex the male guinea pigs. This is to avoid unwanted pregnancies as they can breed very quickly!

They need a high fibre diet supplemented with vitamin C. They eat mostly grass/hay but also enjoy vegetables such as capsicum and/or special guinea pig pellets.

Guinea pigs need an enclosure with shelter, food, water and good hiding spots. They need to be able to spend time away from each other if they choose. They spend 20 plus hours per day being active and only sleep for short periods. When buying a guinea pig ensure they have been well handled from a young age. Guinea pigs with little human contact can become distressed, afraid, run away or hide.

Nurse Alana gave him lovely cuddles after his procedure.

Overall they make great pets! If you would like to book a consultation for your guinea pig or would like to organise to have one de-sexed please call the clinic reception on 52811221.

Bonnie the Border Collie

Little Bonnie had an accident in the yard with her litter mates and was brought down to the clinic. Radiographs revealed a fracture to her tibia which is the equivalent of our shin.

Different options for repair included plating the break or casting the limb until the bone knitted back together.

Her owners opted for the surgery to place a metal plate across the break . This results in a faster recovery time.

To ensure a comfortable journey from our clinic to the specialist we applied a thick, supportive bandage to her limb to allow for pain free transportation.these guys by supplying warmth and rehydrating them.

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

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

46 Leigh News

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 is 23rd each month (except NO January issue) Limited printed Colour is

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. An evening Dinner Meeting, with a guest Speaker on the Third Tuesday of the Month

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 or other special activity.

President: George Lee 0418 520 262

Secretary: Rhonda Goodman 0409 188 258

Treasurer: Val Robertson 5265 1492

Estia Health Bannockburn is a Residential Aged Care home and has availability for both respite and permanent care. Call Kelly on 0419 030 510 if you would like to have a look at our wonderful home and find out more details on Aged Care. 71 McPhillips Road, Bannockburn 5281 1991.

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.

INVERLEIGH

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

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RURAL AND LIFESTYLE

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