25th June 2025

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St. Arnaud, Charlton, Wedderburn & Surrounding Districts

Est. 1864

18 Napier Street, St. Arnaud. 3478. - Advertising & Editorial Material - Ph.: (03) 5495 1055; Fax.: (03) 5495 1937. Email: ncn@iinet.net.au Published weekly.

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Circulating in:- St. Arnaud, Charlton, Donald, Rupanyup, Bealiba, Stawell, Marnoo, Navarre, Dunolly, Wycheproof, Wedderburn, Birchip, Korong Vale, Stuart Mill, Redbank, Avoca & Moonambel.

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The lights go out for Donald’s Esoteric Music Festival THE company behind Donald’s Esoteric Music Festival has entered voluntary administration owing millions to creditors and ticket holders as well as employees.

ASIC documents indicate that the business owes more than $2.8million in debts.

Unless someone buys the parent business, and the debt that is attached, the future of troubled Esoteric Festival is uncertain.

The Esoteric festival, an electronic music, arts and lifestyle event, was cancelled in March this year the day before it was due to start.

Buloke Shire Council officers recommended that the event’s permit be denied due to health and safety concerns.

As the application for the permit was for 10 years the Council decided that a permit be granted for one year.

This was overturned however by the Municipal Building Surveyor, not granting a POPE permit, the day before the festival was due to be held.

Patrons were left queueing at the gate to get in only to be told that the festival would not go ahead.

About 8,000 patrons, who paid between $355 and $375 each, and 3,000 volunteers that were given free tickets.

Administrator’s request time Worrells Solvency and Forensic Accountants (Worrells) has been appointed as the company administrator.

Creditors, other than those who were issued with free tickets and employees, include companies such as a lighting company, food producers, audio technicians, and carpenters are $540,000 out of pocket.

Above: Esoteric Music Festival has gone into voluntary administration owing millions to ticket holders, employees and other organisations.

- PHOTO: Wild Javi Photography.

Patrons hit social media The response from public on social media has been swift with all comments supportive of the festival and the organizers. One response was, “I was so excited to share my artwork with everyone, I flew across the world for this! “ Another, “I met a couple who were among the earliest to arrive at the esoteric festival, having driven all the way from Adelaide.

“It was their late son's favorite place.

“He had found a special connection there before sadly passing away last year in his 20s.

“They were there to honor his memory and celebrate what would have been his birthday, keeping his spirit alive in a place he loved so dearly.

“When it was announced that the festival was cancelled, I went looking for them, but they had already left.”

And another, “Heartbreaking news.

Full support and love to you guys… absolutely stunned by this”.

INSIDE TODAY

RSL lighting up the way with LEDs THE St. Arnaud RSL has recently completed significant lighting upgrades throughout its building. The outdated fluorescent lighting, which had long been in need of improvement, has now been replaced with modern, energy-efficient LED fixtures.

This refurbishment will not only enhance the overall lighting quality but is also expected to significantly reduce electricity costs— an important improvement

for a facility of this size.

The upgrade will make a meaningful difference for veterans and all members of the RSL community, ensuring a more comfortable and

cost-effective environment for years to come.

A total of 8 LED highbay lights were installed with 34,100 lumens each.

A standard LED downlight has 550 lumens.

This project has been made possible through the support of Martha Haylett, Member for Ripon and the State Government’s Veterans

Capital Works Grant Program where organisations can apply for up to $50,000 to improve buildings or facilities that deliver services to the veteran community.

This project would also not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of the St. Arnaud RSL team, Bob Wooley, John Beggs and others.

Above: The ‘new’ lighting at the RSL Hall is appreciated by the Indoor bowlers.

• What’s On at the St. Arnaud Secondary College ... page 5.

• Police report ... page 8. • In the Paddock ... page 10.

NORTHERN GRAMPIANS SHIRE COUNCIL

Council report Councillor Jack Blake Once again, it’s been a very busy month. The rain gods blessed us over the King’s Birthday long weekend, but it’s only a sprinkle compared with what we need. This column isn’t going to be a long-winded message telling everyone what we have been doing over the past month, but more of a compassionate insight into a councillor’s life in 2025.

The dedication and commitment to serve our community over the next four years is not only time- consuming, but also emotionally demanding when we continually get criticised.

Above: Councillor Jack Blake.

I joined the council because I love our community and seriously wanted to make a difference.

Knowing I was not the typical person for the role was a huge part of the reason I joined – so I could show any kid who ever doubted themselves that they can become whatever they want in life.

However, nothing

Editorial Increase the tax breaks for regional and remote taxpayers?

prepared me for the criticism we all face daily from a small percentage of people who don’t understand that my fellow councillors and I do not have a magic wand or a bucket of cash.

I have experienced horrendous personal attacks via social media, and it gives me chills to think that if people can do this to me, what are our kids going through?

We have demonstrated the positive effect we can have in our community by standing up for each other, for example, supporting our landowners protesting renewableenergy projects on their land.

Please, let’s focus on being kind and supporting each other rather than trying to tear people down.

With winter setting in, I’d also like to give a timely reminder to keep an eye out for our elderly neighbours and friends.

For some, the cold weather brings isolation – let’s make sure we remember to reach out and check they’re okay.

The other point I really want to make at this time of year is around road safety.

With the morning fog setting in it really

does concern me that some people don’t have any respect for how dangerous the highway can be – and I’m not just talking about young people.

Too often of late, we are seeing the lifechanging devastation that comes with a splitsecond foolish mistake.

I can’t stress enough how important it is to teach our kids the importance of road safety, and to lead by example.

On a lighter note, I did have the pleasure of visiting The Work Room at the top end of Stawell’s CBD for the Biggest Morning Tea, raising money for the Cancer Council.

I’d likeQldto remind 4217 ourA beautiful people of the shire that if you 1 800 652or 284 ever need anything, F want to catch up for just a Ecoffee, I’m always happy to do so.

To the Editor

Roads will only get worse

Dear Editor, If you think regional Victoria’s roads are AT the last Federal Election last month (oh it bad now, they’re only seems so much longer ago than that) we in the goingQld to get worse. ‘country’ would have liked to have seen the tax A No other 4217 outcome is system changed however, so much time and effort possible given the L abor was devoted to the cost of living and to housing Allan 1 800 652 284 Government’s cut to F that we in the ‘country’ were overlooked. road repairs, revealed Currently we (in regional and remote commuE in its own budget nities that are zoned as ‘remote’) are entitled to a papers. tax break of $1,173 against our taxable income as Despite spruiking a compensation for the cost of things being so much record spend on roads, higher than those in the cities. Although it is hard the government will in to see that an amount of just over one thousand the next year undercould ever compensate for the degree of difficultake 93 per cent less ty that one must incur in the remote areas of this patching works than country. it did last year.

This feeble amount has been the same for That’s on top of a 13 around 30 years and therefore it is long overdue per cent reduction to for an increase. the road re-sealing and Just think – those in ‘remote’ zones are paying Ted Whillier rehabilitation budget. more for petrol, food, and have to travel to an airC Put simply, our port when travelling by air. But so are those in roads are crumbling Elaine Watson – more traditional rural areas as well. with 15,000 potholes If anyone of our politicians wanted a causeCto Rosemary J last reported statewide push, then this would be one. To be more equiyear - Labor isn’t doing table, more up to date, the tax break provided for enough to fix them. regional and remote taxpayers should be increased Regional Victorians or at the very least that the zone tax offset be are copping most of extended, and we say, that should be dramatic. the pain, as we are too often forced to drive on This is the last of the Editorials that will be roads that resemble written in the North Central News. With the goat tracks. retirement of the Marland’s and the takeover This sorry tale is

by Chris Earl, things will change and the first is another example of that the Editorial will no longer appear but that our why it is prudent to D councilors, Northern Grampians and local look at what Labor Buloke Shire, and local and federal Members of does, not what it says.

Parliament, will on rotation be writing an opinion If there is a record piece for you. We are looking forward to the spend, where is the commencement of this change and look forward to money going? Is it just many more under Chris’ leadership. pure fantasy and spin?

Labor can’t manage money, can’t manage North Central News is published weekly by Peter roads and regional Marland, 3279 Charlton/St. Arnaud Road, Slaty Creek for Victorians are paying NCNews Pty. Ltd., 18 Napier Street, St. Arnaud. A.C.N. 146 461 903. Printed by Western District Newspaper P/L, the price.

Camperdown Vic. Registered by Australia Post Danny O’Brien MP Publication No. VAC 4217 - Recommended and maximum Leader of The selling price only.

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Page 2 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JUNE 25th 2025.

18 Napier St., St. Arnaud, Victoria 3478.

Phone: (03) 5495 1055; Email: ncn@iinet.net.au St. Arnaud, Charlton & surrounding districts

N.C.N. INFORMATION The North Central News is 100% locally owned, independent newspaper, established in 1864. With a circulation of 1,400 copies, and an estimated readership of over 3,500 throughout the Northern Grampians and Buloke Shires.

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DISCLAIMER The views and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those held by the publisher or editor. The publisher and staff accept no liability for injury or losses which may occur as a result of information presented in this publication.

No. 8565

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ACROSS 1 Insurgent 5 Stringed instrument 9 Essential 10 Malarial fever 11 Mohammedanism 12 Pinches 13 Mournful song 14 Lofty 16 Dogma 18 Hangman’s rope 20 Egyptian goddess 21 Boxing 24 Sharp 25 Toothless 28 Around (pfx) 30 Kind of willow 31 Plant secretion 32 Old stringed instrument 33 Skip like a goat 35 Trim by cutting 36 Soil 37 Drug­yielding plant 38 Biblical quotations 39 Utters 40 Inward feeling

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See this week’s solution on page 7

DOWN 2 Results from 3 Dodges 4 Restrict 5 Suspend 6 Estrange from friendship 7 Clergyman 8 Morose 15 Words spoken in undertone 16 Weary 17 Most agreeable 19 Metal­bearing rock 21 Dearth 22 Place 23 Profit 24 Consumed 26 Twofold 27 Family members 28 Read attentively 29 Weapons 31 Reposes 34 Monkeys

Forthcoming Exhibition at the St. Arnaud Raillery Hub THE Journey Within and Images of Moonambel will be on at the Raillery Hub from Friday June 27th to Sunday August 17th 2025; it is a combined exhibition of textile and mixed media works alongside evocative paintings from Moonambel.

Celebrating the beauty of nature and the personal journey of creativity, these works offer a reflection on the way art connects us to both landscape and self.

The Naturescapes element features six Victorian artist: Karen

Ridley, Sally Wright, Lyndene Higgins, Narelle Higgins, Caz Rogers, and Mackenzie Petrie, whose practices include embroidery, felting, weaving, collage, sculpture, and the repurposing of vintage materials.

Complementing their tactile artworks are a series of atmospheric landscape paintings by Moonambel artist Russell Drever, whose works capture the essence of the Pyrenees region with depth and sensitivity.

Visitors are invited to the official opening on Saturday June 28th at 2pm at the Gallery on Queens Avenue, St. Arnaud Railway Station.

Each piece in Naturescapes and the Journey Within represents a personal journey— creative expression as a source of mindfulness, healing, accomplishment, and

emotional connection.

From the gentle stitchwork of Karen Ridley to the playful, repurposed pieces by Lyndene Higgins, these works draw us into a space of reflection and appreciation for the natural world.

Artists Sally Wright, Narelle Higgins, Caz Rogers, and Mackenzie Petrie bring additional depth through their diverse creative forms, offering fibre collage, mindful stitching, felted works, and mixed media explorations.

Their work creates a layered, immersive environment that speaks to the value of slowing down and creating with intention.

Russell Drever’s paintings complement this narrative with images rich with texture and mood, honour the quiet strength of the local environment.

They reflect his relationship to place that mirrors the textile artists’ tactile explorations.

Visitors can also browse a creative market stall featuring handmade goods and fibre packs from the artists, and enter a raffle to win unique donated pieces,

including a textile brooch, coiled basket, woven scarf, art journal cover, and more.

The St. Arnaud Raillery Hub Gallery, Queens Avenue, St Arnaud Railway Station Fridays to Sundays, 11am–4pm.

Entry is free.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK A real friend is one who walks in when the rest of the world walks out.

- Walter Winchell

Locally screened movies to enjoy!

Just $10.00 pp !

“KARATE KID - LEGENDS” Fri 27 June @ 6.30 pm Sun 29 June @ 2.00 pm ___________________________________

School Holidays Special price– just $10pp!

“HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON” Wed 9 July @ 2.00 pm Fri 11 July @ 6.30 pm ___________________________________ “THE SMURFS” Sun 13 July @ 2.00 pm Wed 16 July @ 2.00 pm Gift Passes 5 for $45.00; 10 for $90.00

Please check our website and Facebook page for updates www.starnaudcinema.com or Ph. 0447 673 696

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JUNE 25th 2025 - Page 3

St. Arnaud 100 Years Ago: June 19th – 25th 1925

by Heather Pritchard

St. Arnaud Brass Band Annual Meeting

red by: Proudly sponso

Sprayer Centre

15% off ALL

Compression Sprayers 16 Kell Road St Arnaud, Vic 3478

Ph: 03 5495 3235

Elections - President T Grant, Vice-presidents H W Dunkley and H J Mewkill, Treasurer I J T Grigg, Secretary G H Osborne, Band Secretary A E Walsh and Drum Major J Anderson.

Town Committee - G McGlashan, J Crone, H Dimelow, W McLay and H J Walters, Band Committee J Little, P Gent, P Fay, F Jolliffe and J Cronin.

R Jones, who has now been permanently appointed as Band-master, gave the yearly report - £100 worth of instruments was purchased and are in use, by the twenty seniors and four juniors.

Hospital Sundays have concluded for the season and were very successful.

The recent carnival raised £72/5/6 towards

Page 4 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JUNE 25th 2025.

the erection of a Band Rotunda in the Town Hall Reserve.

Salvation Army Adjutant Daddow of the Salvation Army was welcomed back to St. Arnaud for a visit after spending eight years engaged in missionary work in China.

After a vacation in Victoria she will return to China to continue missionary work for another eight years.

Football St. Arnaud travelled to Watchem by special train to play Watchem who are short of players.

To keep them as a football entity ten permits were granted to play Wycheproof and District Association players – seven from Narraport and four from Wycheproof.

Scores, ¼ time Watchem 1- 5, St. Arnaud 1-0, ½ time Watchem 2-6, St. Arnaud 2-1, ¾ time Watchem 7-0, St.

Arnaud 4-3, final score Watchem 8-4 defeated St. Arnaud 5-4.

Kooreh 5-6 defeated Swanwater 3-7.

St Patrick’s Tennis Club The first of a series of euchre party and

Karate Kids: Legends screening at St. Arnaud Cinema - Contributed

A family tragedy changes the life of Li Fong.

Li and his mum move to New York City, but things do not change for Li who is a Kung Fu prodigy.

He struggles to let go of the past as he tries to fit in with his new classmates.

When a new friend needs his help, Li Fong enters a Karate competition, but his skills alone are not enough.

This is when Li realizes he needs help from Mr Han and Daniel.

The two mentors meet to collaborate on the two different styles of Martial Arts to show Li what he needs to know.

After much practice, the stage is set; Li has received his instructions from these two masters.

Is he good enough?

The saying that goes with this movie is: Two Branches. One Tree.

There is plenty of action in this movie, and great performances

by Jackie Chan, Ben Wang, and Ralph Macchio that will get the imagination fired up.

Screenings will be on Friday 27th at 6.30 pm and Sunday 29th at 2pm.

dance entertainments in aid of the Tennis Club was held at the Mechanics Institute.

Main prizes won by Mrs Russell [lady’s wallet] and James O’Shanahan [fountain pen].

Minor prizes won by Miss McCarthy and Mr Willoughby.

Dance music was supplied by H White [piano] and J Hogan [violin]

New Business Miss Oxley, late of Bray’s has commenced business as a dressmaker and costumier at Misses Grigg and Herdwig’s music shop, Napier St.

Welcome Nelson Mine The chimney stack has been heightened to over sixty feet and the machinery overhauled.

An additional boiler and stamper box are

expected to arrive any day. When completed the battery will consist of twenty head of stampers capable of crushing eight hundred tons per month.

Sales St. Arnaud 621 sheep Land and clearing sale - A C Duxson sells 536 acres, 6 miles from Marnoo also 750 first class young merino sheep, machinery and implements, wool press, shearing plant, 3-knife chaffcutter, gig, horse brake, child’s pony, 1 good gig mare, 3 draught mares and harness, 3 pacing mares, 1 trotting mare, and 1 trotting sulky and harness, plus large assortment of furniture.

Mr Duxson is leaving the district and moving to Benalla where he has obtained a property.

We have all the latest cutting-edge equipment: Bulldozers, Truck, Scrapers, GPS Graders, Excavators, Tip Trucks for roads, Shed Pads, Dams and all general earthmoving.

LYAL EALES STORES Towable Log Saw Log Splitter With Lifter - 30 ton Electric Start - 50 ton Pull Start Electric Start Log Splitters - 30 ton - 40 ton 15hp Trencher Kelso Wheelbarrows from

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LYAL EALES STORES •Camping •Disposals •Hardware •Homewares 59 NAPIER STREET, ST. ARNAUD. PH: (03) 5495 2021 Monday to Thursday 9am - 5.30pm; Friday 9am - 6pm; Saturday & Sunday 9am - 2pm

Maldon shed fire triggers lithium-ion battery warning A fire that destroyed a shed in Maldon has prompted fresh warnings about the risks posed by lithium-ion battery devices.

A total of 11 CFA units from the local area responded to the incident on Maldon-

Newstead Road at 4.05pm on Monday June 16th.

On arrival, crews

found the shed well alight and quickly began suppression efforts to stop the blaze

What’s On at the St. Arnaud Secondary College Year 9 – 11 Exams Last week, students in Years 9 to 11 had their end of semester exams in each of their subjects.

Exams are a common form of assessment in the senior years, and they are more than just big tests.

There are skills to be learnt and opportunities for students to practice what works for them.

All students, whether they be VCE or Vocational Major, must undergo at least the GAT in their final year, so it is important practice for all students.

This is the reason that exams were introduced to Year 9 some years ago.

For some students, it is just a challenge to sit quietly for 90 minutes or more, but again, something that can be learnt.

them an opportunity to respond to all the questions asked in the first section.

The second part of the GAT, undertaken by VCE students only, was, as expected, more challenging, but still provided the students with plenty of opportunities.

It was also apparent that students who had participated in the practice GATs over the past weekends felt very prepared.

Semester 2 classes start This week all students have started their Semester 2 classes for 2025.

Some changes in timetable for some students may happen, and for our junior students, maybe some new subjects and teachers.

General Achievement Test

Year 10 Pre-Driver Education This Week

The General Achievement Test (GAT) was also held on Tuesday, and 26 students took part in the test.

This included all Year 12 students, students studying Vocational Major Units 3 and 4 and all Year 11 students undertaking a Year 12 subject this year.

Reports from the students are that they felt the GAT was fair and gave

The Driver Education program in Charlton provides an excellent service and wonderful learning opportunity for students.

This course is for students of all driving abilities and experience – and often it’s the students who think they know “how to drive” that learn the most during this experience.

spreading to a nearby house.

Firefighters brought the fire under control in around 40 minutes, preventing it from reaching the residence.

The fire is believed to have started in a device containing a lithium-ion battery stored in the shed.

Acting Maldon Fire Brigade Captain Bruce Clement was the CFA incident controller and said the fire presented several challenges on the ground.

“Our crew was first on scene and found the structure fully alight, with heavy s m o ke swirling throughout the area.

“Once suppression started, we identified what appeared to be a lithium-ion battery pack near the front of the building,” Bruce said.

“Access was difficult due to trees, other structures and general clutter, and we had to position crews carefully while maintaining a safe distance due to poor visibility.”

“There was no mains water available, so we established a relay system using a nearby dam, with Newstead’s big fill

pumping water up to our tankers.

“That setup was key to getting the fire under control.”

CFA District 2 Assistant Chief Fire Officer Dean Simmons said Victorians need to be cautious when storing or charging lithium-ion battery-powered devices.

“When dealing with

lithium-ion batteries, only use the charger that came with your device, or one that’s been certified as compatible,” Dean said.

“Only purchase and use devices and equipment from reputable manufacturers and suppliers.”

Dean also highlighted the importance of interconnected smoke

alarms in the home, particularly in areas where devices are charged.

“Interconnected smoke alarms are a must, especially in areas where you regularly charge devices,” he said.

“Early detection gives you the best chance to act quickly if something goes wrong.”

Above average bushfire risk expected for large parts of Victoria this winter VICTORIANS are facing an increased bushfire risk across much of the state after a warm and dry autumn, according to the Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for winter, released last week.

March and April saw the fourth highest temperatures on record, below average rainfall across much of Victoria and an extension of the Fire Danger Period in some parts of the state for the first time since 2019.

These conditions, coupled with existing underlying dryness, has led to a higher level of dried grass and vegetation.

In grassland, halted pasture growth has led to grazed-out or bare conditions.

As a result, an above average bushfire risk is predicted for much of

southwest Gippsland, extending into central, southwest and northwest Victoria, as well as parts of northeast Victoria this winter.

The increased risk isn’t for long-running bushfires, but events caused by uncontrolled burn-offs and other activities.

Forest Fire Management Victoria Chief Fire Officer Chris Hardman said there was still a lot to enjoy in the forests and parks in winter, but what this outlook shows, Victorians still need to take care with any campfires.

“Even at this time of year, just one unattended or poorly managed campfire can cause serious damage to the environment and put lives and property at risk.

“Never leave a campfire unattended and use water to fully extinguish it – if it’s cool to touch it’s safe to leave.”

Normal rainfall is expected this winter, and Victorians can expect normal fire potential across the rest of the state.

However, fires are possible on dry and windy days in areas with dry or cured vegetation.

Even in winter, it’s vital for communities to remain vigilant.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JUNE 25th 2025 - Page 5

Charlton 100 Years Ago: June 20th - 24th 1925

by Charlton Golden Grains Museum

Stamina

Above: 1926 Reg Curnow’s stamina. Back row (left to right) Jack Fanning, Tom Travaglia, Frank Kruger, Charlie Smith, Rev Day, Stan Bennett, Billy Williams, Len Cassells, H. Arnell, Harold Baraber, J. Foxwell. Front row: Reg Curnow, Jack Bishop, Ev Arundell, George Burton, Jack Wright, Tom Maher, Jim Grogan, Perc. Spencer. Sitting: Harold Leech, Don Vickers.

Page 6 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JUNE 25th 2025.

Rather a remarkable performance was Reg Curnow’s win in the Harriers’ Mile handicap on Saturday.

He was playing for the football team against Narraport; and at first was disinclined to take the track for the race.

But to help out the field he consented. As soon as the midway bell sounded, he took off his football boots, got into running pumps, and walked straight over to look for his mark.

He won the race, got out of his running pumps into his football

boots again, and played the second half of the football match.

He certainly showed some stamina, and represents the sort of material for which Charlton Harriers are looking.

Buckrabanyule The separation of the Woosang Juniors from their seniors on certain match days has been unfortunate but unavoidable.

It has now been rendered unnecessary by the provision of a ground for the young Maroons at the rear of the Gladstone Hotel. Mr Watt, of that hostelry, consulted Mr James Hindson on behalf of Woosang Juniors, and Mr Hindson not only granted the ground without hesitation, but with Mr Hubert James carried out its preparation.

They even went to the extent of neglecting their own work to get the ground ready in time for last Saturday’s match.

During the present week, they have put further labor on it, the aim being to make it a really good pitch. Mr Watt donated two guineas to the Woosang Juniors.

Inter-School Sport The Higher Elementary School Basket-ball Second Team, accompanied by the Sports Mistress (Miss L. Soding) visited Wycheproof to meet the local school.

As it was Wycheproof ’s first match, they were naturally handicapped by lack of experience.

Charlton team was: Alice Chandler and Nellie Paterson, defenders; Mollie Grady, defending rover; Edith Paterson, centre; Rita Clark, attacking rover; Edna Arundell and Jean Clark, goal throwers.

Charlton won by 16 goals to 4.

Edith Paterson played a very big part in the win. Each member of the winning team was well worthy of her place.

Accident The railway crossing at Dwyer’s corner was the scene of an accident which happily was not attended by serious injury to any person.

A car with six occupants was returning from the Teddywaddy R o v e r s -Wo o s a n g Juniors match, and just in front of it at the spot referred to was proceeding another car.

The one in front exhibited signs of slow-

ing down, the taillight automatically showing.

The car at the rear was unable to pull up in the distance, and in order to avoid the one in front the driver turned it to the side, crashing into and carrying away two 10 x 10 red gum posts.

The only injury sustained was to Frank Gould, who received abrasions to the face.

The front of the car was rather badly damaged.

Gould was not at the wheel.

Parking Fee The charge of 6d for each motor car entering the Football Reserve on match afternoons has not proved altogether popular.

It was contended that, while the actual sum was a trifle, the principle was not sound.

If there had been a grand stand on the ground, it was argued, the Club would have had a better standing; but motor cars were practically portable grandstands, affording shelter for onlookers on wet days.

Although no meeting has been held since the annual gathering, the Club decided, rather than lose prospective members over the charge, to abrogate it in the case of members.

Sterling Sire Everyone interested in equines in this district will regret to learn of the death of that wonderful old stallion, Bronte.

Bronte was born in 1900, on the farm that Mr Chas Hando now owns at Buckrabanyule.

Mr Hando first raced the horse at Wedderburn, where he won a Maiden Trot.

Six years later Bronte was sent to Melbourne and put in the hands of Mr Bambrick to be trained.

This grand horse won the first city race he started in – at Richmond.

Bronte afterwards won 2 or 3 good trots and then Mr Hando got him back for stud purposes.

As a Show horse, Bronte was the most successful of any outside of Melbourne.

Well known trotters sired by Bronte have followed in his footsteps, having consistently won in Melbourne, Bendigo and at all our district shows.

(Information from East Charlton Tribune)

Regular attendance at school earns a certificate for Alice Batters ALICE Batters was 11 years old in 1924 and at school, Burrumbite School, when she wrote a piece in the “Our Schools” magazine.

“I love school, and have not missed a single day since the opening of our school on July 3, 1919, over six years ago.

“I hope to continue this record of regular attendance till the end of my school days.

“This year the Education Department sent me a beautiful certificate of which I am very proud” Alice said.

Alice was the greatgreat-aunt of little Alice Batters, the daughter of Ben and Janine Batters and the great-aunt of Barry Batters and Lauren Bales (nee Batters) and their siblings.

Above: The students of the Burrumbite School in July 1924. Can you guess which one is Alice (hint: she is peering out somewhere in the middle).

Control Area lifted after successful response to bird flu outbreak THE H7 avian influenza response in Victoria has come to an end. The outbreak, which began in February, affected four commercial poultry properties.

Top right: Alice Batters at school in 1924.

Solution No. 8565 R E B E L H A R P S N V I T A L A G U E I S L A M N I P S L U D I R G E T A L L T E N E T N O O S E I S I S S P A R R I N G R C A C U T E D A E D E N T A T E P E R I O S I E R R E S I N L U T E C A P E R F B C L I P S U L L Y A L O E T E X T S E E S A Y S S E N S E

Above: The Burrumbite School in 1924.

There have been no new cases of H7N8 high pathogenicity bird flu since 24 February 2025.

Disease eradication activities have been successful, allowing Agriculture Victoria to remove quarantine from the infected properties and lift the Control Area that has been in place around Euroa for more than four months.

As result, there are no longer movement restrictions around the four properties. This progress is a significant step towards re-establishing Australia’s claim to freedom from high pathogenicity avian influenza.

Victoria’s Acting Chief

Veterinary Officer Dr Sally Salmon said the disease was eradicated thanks to the hard work of the poultry industry, local bird owners and the wider community.

“Early reporting from the first affected business meant we could act quickly, and their ongoing co-operation with all elements of the response has been a major factor in achieving eradication,” Dr Salmon said.

Once the affected birds had been removed from the properties, more than 100 people were deployed to clean and disinfect each site.

Dr Salmon also thanked bird owners

across the region for their support during the response.

“Thanks to local residents, we visited 350 properties, took 20,600 samples and completed 21,500 tests for the virus,” Dr Salmon said.

“Surveillance is key to gathering the evidence to show that the disease hasn’t spread.

“We couldn’t have done this without the help of bird and poultry owners.”

Local businesses also played an important role by supporting response staff.

Food and fuel, accommodation, cleaning and security services, equipment hire and repair and maintenance supplies were provided to keep the response moving.

Now that the emergency response has concluded, poultry and bird owners across Victoria are reminded to continue to follow good biosecurity practices.

This includes keeping sheds, yards, aviaries and equipment clean, limiting contact between poultry and wild birds, cleaning footwear and washing hands before and after handling birds or eggs and quarantining new birds before mixing them with others.

Every producer should have a biosecurity plan and know the signs of disease.

If you see unexplained bird deaths, report them to the 24-hour Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888 or contact your local vet

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JUNE 25th 2025 - Page 7

Page 8 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JUNE 25th 2025.

St. Arnaud Police Report Farm theft Between Saturday May 31st 2025 and Monday June 2nd 2025 a quantity of diesel fuel was stolen from a heavy vehicle parked in a paddock at a Wimmera Highway St. Arnaud address.

Investigations in relation to this matter are ongoing and anyone with information is urged to contact Police.

Raglan Street premises burgled Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a burglary in St. Arnaud between 10:00am on Sunday June 1st 2025 and 9:00am on Monday June 2nd 2025.

It is believed offenders have attended the RSL Hall in Raglan Street and stolen a safe containing cash.

Investigations in relation to this matter are ongoing and anyone with information is urged to contact Police.

Fence damaged At approximately 9:20pm on Thursday June 5th 2025, the occupier of a property in Stephens Street, St. Arnaud heard a noise at the front of the property and found damage to the fence.

A 16-year-old St. Arnaud male has been arrested and interviewed in relation to this matter.

Two other St. Arnaud teenagers have been identified and will be spoken to by Police at a later date.

Property damaged Overnight on June 6th 2025, a house in Smith Street St. Arnaud had its front windows damaged.

Public toilets damaged Overnight on Friday June 6th 2025 and between 5:00pm and 11:00pm on Sunday June 8th 2025, fixtures inside the public toilets at the St. Arnaud Town Hall Complex were pulled off the walls by vandals.

A 16-year-old St. Arnaud male has been arrested and interviewed in relation to this matter.

Two other St. Arnaud teenagers have been identified and will be spoken to by Police at a later date.

Public laneway fence damaged On Wednesday June 11th 2025 and again on Thursday June 19th 2025, a panel fence along the public laneway between Napier Street and the St. Arnaud Medical Centre was damaged.

A 16-year-old St. Arnaud male has been arrested and interviewed in relation to this matter.

Two other St. Arnaud teenagers have been identified and will be spoken to by Police at a later date.

Copper thefts Police are investigating the theft of copper cabling at GrainCorp sites at Swanwater and Sutherland. Between April 15th 2025 and June 19th 2025, offenders have forced their way into the premises by cutting locks or forcing entry.

It appears a quantity of copper has been stolen.

Similar offending has also been reported at GrainCorp facilities in Litchfield, Wycheproof, Charlton, and Wedderburn areas.

Police urge local farmers and the general public to be our eyes and ears and report any suspicious activity or vehicles in the area of railway lines, silos, or farm buildings.

It is critical for Police to be made aware to enable timely follow up and to stop any further offending in our local area.

Laser pointed through windows Police received reports from members of the public in relation to a laser device being shone in house windows on the evening of Thursday June 19th 2025.

Police patrolled local streets in an attempt to locate those responsible.

Police have spoken to a 16-year-old St. Arnaud male in relation to this matter and as a result Police have seized a laser device.

Police would like to remind the public that certain laser pointing devices are considered prohibited weapons and illegal to possess.

Collision at Beazley’s Bridge St. Arnaud Police and emergency services responded to a motor vehicle collision at Beazley’s Bridge at approximately 1:00am last Saturday June 21st 2025.

The male driver being the sole occupant of the vehicle has hit a tree on the opposite side of the road, head on.

The driver was conveyed to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Investigations around the circumstances of the incident are being investigated.

• Cont. next page.

Above: Vehicle towed as result of a collision at Beazley’s Bridge on Saturday morning.

“Ballerina” at The REX - Contributed

• From prev. page.

Drug affected driver taken off the road As a result of reports from the public in relation to an erratic driver on the Wimmera Highway St. Arnaud East, at approximately 12:30pm on Friday June 20th 2025, Police intercepted a 33-year-old St. Arnaud male driver who returned a positive oral fluid test result.

The male was conveyed to the St. Arnaud Police Station where he was interviewed and issued with an immediate driving ban.

The male may be required to face a Magistrate at a later date.

Driver arrested On June 22nd 2025 at approximately 2:30pm a member of the public reported an erratic driver on the Sunraysia Highway near St. Arnaud.

Upon intercepting, the vehicle and the 32year-old male driver from the Mildura area was searched which resulted in Police locating bottles of

prescription drugs not belonging to the driver and cocaine.

The driver was arrested for possess drug of dependence, conveyed to the St. Arnaud Police Station, and interviewed in relation to the matters. ...

If you See, Hear or Know Something, please let us know Any information relating to criminal activity, no matter how big or small, or if you think something you saw or heard might not be important, it could still help.

The smallest detail could be crucial to our ongoing investigations.

Please contact Crime Stoppers Victoria anytime on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at crimestoppersvic.com.au.

You can also call the 24/7 Police Assistance Line (PAL) on 131 444 for non-urgent matters or contact the St. Arnaud Police Station.

In an emergency requiring police attendance, always call Triple Zero (000).

Please note that, often due to privacy, operational considerations, or other factors, some incidents may not

be included in this public report.

COMMUNITY SENTIMENT SURVEY Police would like to remind the public that the Community Sentiment Survey is due to close on Monday June 30th 2025.

The survey is available on the Engage Victoria website during this time or via http://bit.ly/4kamyL2 St. Arnaud and Yarriambiack Police Cluster Manager Senior Sergeant Tim Thomson said Police were seeking community feedback to help determine the local safety priorities of residents and businesses.

“If you’d like to contribute, complete the Victoria Police Community Sentiment Survey.

“It’s a great way for the community to provide information about their safety concerns, engagement preferences, and experiences with police in their local area.”

The survey is anonymous and takes around five minutes to complete.

We will not ask for your name or contact details.

“From the world of John Wick: Ballerina” is this weekend’s movie screening at The Rex. John Wick (the character immortalised by actor Keanu Reeves), makes a cameo return bringing his usual elegance to the screen in this action-packed narrative. Joining the franchise is Academy Award nominee, Ana de Armas as the dancer / assassin who gives a lethally balletic performance as the graceful action hero.

Set in the John Wick universe and taking place during the events of ‘John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum’, this spinoff film follows Eve Macarro (de Armas) who is beginning her training in the assassin traditions of the Ruska Roma (a formidable crime syndicate presided over by Anjelica Huston's cigar-chomping Director) to seek revenge against the people who killed her family.

Directed by Len Wiseman, this fifth installment of the franchise builds slowly – starting with Eve’s years-long training in

the cutthroat world of ballet (the cover for her more deadly work) along with her tuition in the art of assignation. The momentum picks up during the later third of the movie, when in the final act, Eve is being hunted by an entire European village of people who

want her dead.

Be prepared for some chaotic stunt work, with a few comedic touches thrown in and a physically impressive performance by de Armas.

This is one for the “John Wick” fans, and for those craving some

action-packed winter entertainment!

“From the World of John Wick: Ballerina”( MA15+ 125 mins| Action | Thriller | Strong violence) screens Saturday on June 28th at 8pm, Sunday June 29th at 2pm and Tuesday July 1st at 8pm.

$10.00

WANTING ANOTHER LARGE PRINT DIRECTORY? It’s available at Nutrien Ag St. Arnaud 13 - 19 Napier Street, St. Arnaud

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JUNE 25th 2025 - Page 9

In The Paddock Don’t sacrifice your perennial pastures LISTINGS WANTED Residential, Rural, Commercial & Leasing See your local

Nutrien Harcourts Real Estate team Sharlene Bertalli: 0447 952 320 Damian Drum: 0428 952 284 13-19 Napier Street, St. Arnaud

• Dam Sinking, Enlarging & Cleaning • Land Levelling and Filling • Land Clearing, Driveways etc.

• Gravel For Sale Phone Mike: 0408 316 394 IED CARR Truck Available. ALL WORKSOMPTLY R OUT P UR For a no obligation TO YO N D N A IO T FAC Quote Phone: SATIS

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Week ending Thursday June 18 2025

WITH good rain across most of Victoria, farmers may be looking to return stock to paddocks following months of containment feeding.

Agriculture Victoria Livestock and Land Management Extension Officer Neil James said returning stock too early may result in damage or death of deep-rooted perennials such as phalaris, cocksfoot and fescue.

“The loss of perennial pasture is primarily caused by over grazing, but when combined with extended dry periods, pasture decline can intensify.

“Perennial ryegrass, however, rarely survives prolonged dry periods, regardless of grazing pressure.

“Many pastures are already under stress due to the prolonged dry conditions. Late season rainfall will have triggered some green leaf growth.

“However, repeated grazing of these new shoots can deplete the plants’ root reserves, ultimately leading to

— By Glendon Hancock

THE Australian wool market has risen for the penultimate sale of the season and in welcome news, this rise driven by market conditions rather than currency.

Fremantle did not hold a sale this week, with only Sydney and Melbourne in operation the national offering was 20,756 bales.

This was the smallest sale of the season.

The small offering attracted strong buyer support and although the selection was not large, what was available attracted spirited bidding, which in turn resulted in price rises across the board.

By the end of the selling series the individual AWEX Micron Price Guides (MPGs) for merino fleece had risen by between 1 and 24 cents, the only anomaly was a 22-cent fall in the 19.5 MPG in the North.

The benchmark Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) gained

10 cents for the week, closing at 1,207 cents.

The EMI also rose in USD terms, adding 6 US cents.

The crossbred sector of the market continues to strengthen, adding further increases to those achieved over the previous weeks.

The recent rise in the crossbreds is best highlighted viewing the Southern MPGs. In Week 45 (7th of May) the 26.0 MPG was 588 cents, today the MPG is at 652 cents, an increase of 10.8%.

The 28.0 MPG has risen by 7.7%, while the strongest performer has been the 30.0 MPG, which has gone from 360 cents to 405 cents, an increase of 12.5%.

To put this into perspective the best

National Offering Centre North South Total

Week 51 51

Days Offering 17, 18 June 6,828 17, 18 June 13,928 20,756

Future Offerings Week

52

24, 25 June

Source - AWEX

32,648

performing merino MPG over the same period was the 17.5, which has risen by 4.1%.

The EMI has risen by 1.3% over the same time frame, the small rise the EMI has achieved, helped by the strengthening of the crossbreds.

Next week marks the final sale of season.

Fremantle returns to the market, pushing the national quantity up to 32,648 bales.

Melbourne 1190 L +11 16.5 1722n +14 17 1670 +8 17.5 1638 +10 18 1609 +12 18.5 1568 +16 19 1529 +13 19.5 1486 +10 20 1452 +12 21 1415 +3 22 23 24 25 790n +8 26 652 +7 28 460 +15 30 405 +12 32 340 +5 MC 678n +9

Ind.

Page 10 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JUNE 25th 2025.

plant death.

“Ideally, livestock should be held in containment until pastures have grown sufficient leaf area to maximise photosynthesis and rebuild their root reserves. This may take 4 – 6 weeks following rain or longer, depending on the starting condition and temperature.

“Where stock containment is not possible

due to the onset of lambing, or excessively wet conditions, farmers might consider containing stock in a paddock corner or using part of a laneway to form a small sacrifice paddock.

“Keeping the area small minimises paddock damage and reduces energy requirements of stock when compared with searching for feed over larger areas.

“Resowing perennial pastures is extremely expensive, of ten

exceeding $200/ha, and producers planning to sow new pastures are encouraged to review how those species have performed in environments similar to their own.

“The Pasture Trial Network developed and hosted by Meat & Livestock Australia, compiles data from independent trial sites assessing a wide range of pasture varieties.

“It can be used to compare the performance (seasonal and total dry matter pro-

duction) of tested varieties of legumes and grasses.”

For more information about perennial pastures, visit the Agriculture Victoria website: Getting the most out of your old perennial pastures.

Contact Neil James for more information on neil.james@agriculture.vic.gov.au For more information about drought and dry seasons support visit: https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/dryseaso ns or call 136 186.

SmartFarms to break new ground for soil research AGRICULTURE Victoria’s soil research capabilities at its Horsham and Tatura SmartFarms have been boosted with a $1.49 million investment from the Australian Government’s National Soil Action Plan (NSAP).

Agriculture Victoria Research Scientist Dr Katherine Dunsford said the ‘Improving soil structure for resilient ecosystems’ project will fund critical research into increasing drought resilience.

“In Australia soil is the basis for most agriculture, both food and fibre, and directly tied to our food security and economy.

“This project funding has helped us appoint a dedicated soil physicist Dr Anne Yusuf to our soil physics laborator y facility at the Tatura SmartFarm.

“Dr Yusuf will apply her soil science, hydrology and ecosystem knowledge to our project and make the most of the technology and facilities available at the soil physics lab and our SmartFarms,’ Dr Dunsford said.

“Poor soil structure limits rainfall capture and root access to water, shrinking the soil's water bucket.

“It can also lead to increased greenhouse gas emissions and reduced fertility, resulting in lower plant production and poor environmental outcomes.

“Soils can have naturally poor structure or as a result of management decisions, such as excessive tillage or trampling by cattle in wet conditions.

“Our research

focuses on understanding how different soil amelioration strategies such as organic materials and gypsum can improve soil structure and soil function,’ she said.

Dr Dunsford said

they are looking to expand understanding across a wider range of soil types and industries, particularly grains and dairy.

“The goal is to guide farmers to effective soil improvement strategies to maintain or boost productivity, enhance drought resilience, and increase environmental services in a changing climate.

NSAP is a 5-year plan under the 20-year

National Soil Strategy.

The funding aligns to priority actions which aim to improve Australia’s soil health and long-term security.

Learn more about NSAP at agriculture. gov.au/agricultureland/farm-food-drough t/natural-resources/ soils/national-soil-actionplan.

To learn more about our SmartFarms visit www.agriculture.vic.go v.au/research.

Why do dam repairs often fail?

AS dry conditions continue across Victoria (even after rain), many farmers may be considering repairing leaking or failed dams to increase onfarm water storage capacity once it rains.

- by Clem Sturmfels, Land Management Extension Officer, Agriculture Victoria

Dam repairs are often high-risk, expensive, and should only be undertaken when the cause of failure and repair options are well understood.

Repairs should only be attempted on larger, well-constructed dams.

Understanding the dam’s history—who built it, what equipment was used, and how it has performed—is essential before any work begins.

Poor construction, unsuitable materials, inadequate compaction, and soil contamination are among the most common causes of dam failure.

While poor maintenance can contribute, it is rarely the primary factor.

Diagnosing the cause of dam failure can be complex. It is important to determine whether the leak is through the wall or floor of the dam, and whether it is isolated or widespread.

Thorough inspections should ideally be carried out across multiple seasons, including winter, spring, and summer.

Where possible, land-

for safe machinery access • Preparing the foundations to optimise bonding • Ensuring repair materials are moist and placed in layers not exceeding 100mm • Compacting each layer with multiple passes of a padfoot roller • Ensuring the total depth/width of repair materials exceed 300mm • Shaping final slopes to a maximum gradient of 3:1 (horizontal:vertical).

Repairing dams also present significant health and safety risks, including unstable soil, steep slopes, machinery hazards, and exposure to dust.

All works should be carried out by qualified and experienced personnel, and safety protocols must be in place, including reliable emergency communication.

Permits or licences may be required to undertake dam repairs.

Landholders are encouraged to contact their local council planning officer and water authority for guidance.

holders should inspect the dam bank for seepage, subsidence, cracks, or tunnels and check the waterline for whirlpools or surface turbulence.

They should also examine downstream areas for soft ground or lush vegetation, indicating seepage, as well as use a steel probe or crowbar to test soil firmness in suspect areas.

Dam landholders are also advised to watch for unusual signs such as bright yellow or very clear water, which may indicate tunnelling or unsuitable soil and monitor and photograph the site regularly to track changes in water levels or visible issues.

They should also inspect the dam after heavy rain to identify potential problems and carefully examine any breach in the dam wall, looking for signs of unsuitable materials like sand, gravel or topsoil.

Soil testing is a crucial part of any repair effort.

Dam repair works usually involve: • Excavating the site

ACCC Report into Digital Platforms signals urgent need for support of local Journalism COUNTRY Press Australia has welcomed the release of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s final report from its Digital Platform Services Inquiry, describing it as a landmark moment that recognises the systemic challenges facing regional and local news publishers in the digital age.

C PA P r e s i d e n t Andrew Schreyer said the report confirms what independent publishers have known for years, that global tech giants are using their market dominance to control how journalism is accessed, valued and monetised in Australia, to the detriment of local news.

“This report confirms what our members have experienced for a long time,” Mr Schreyer said.

“Local and regional publishers continue to face deeply entrenched power imbalances in their dealings with the major digital platforms.

“This has real consequences for the sustainability of journalism in our communities.”

Mr Schreyer said the federal government must now move quickly to implement the News Bargaining Incentive legislation,

especially in light of Meta’s refusal to renew deals with publishers since announcing their withdrawal from news arrangements last year.

“Meta has walked away from compensating publishers entirely, and others like TikTok have never come to the table at all,” he said.

“The incentive legislation is essential to ensure that all major platforms are required to contribute to the journalism they benefit from, either by negotiating in good faith or by making a fair payment.”

He also emphasised that public funding support for journalism, including through the News Media Assistance Program (NewsMAP), must be directed to publishers who are actively producing local public interest journalism.

“Funding should go to the journalists and

newsrooms who are on the ground covering councils, courts, community stories and local sport,” Mr Schreyer said.

“These are the voices that hold local institutions to account and help communities stay connected.

“They need direct and meaningful support.”

The ACCC report draws attention to a range of broader issues threatening journalism, including a lack of dispute resolution options for small publishers, harmful practices by dominant platforms, and the growing use of AI tools that can devalue or displace credible news.

“We support stronger platform obligations to prevent scams and fake reviews, and we also support enforceable transparency requirements that ensure fair treatment of news content,” Mr Schreyer said.

“We need to see the major platforms treated as gatekeepers with clear responsibilities when it comes to how news is ranked, labelled and monetised.

“We urge the government to consider the rise of AI and its use of publishers’ content and the need for publishers to be fairly compensated for this as part of the News Bargaining Incentive framework.”

He said the rise of AI-generated content and the continued spread of misinformation on social media made it more important than ever f o r Au s t r a l i a n s t o understand what credible journalism looks like.

“Improving digital literacy must be a national priority,” Mr Schreyer said.

“Australians need the tools to distinguish fact-based journalism from misinformation, especially in an environment where AI and algorithms are shaping so much of what people see.”

Country Press Australia represents

Above: CPA President Andrew Schreyer almost 240 independently owned newspapers that serve regional, rural and suburban communities across the country.

These publishers are embedded in the communities they serve and continue to provide vital public interest journalism in an increasingly disrupted media environment.

Mr Schreyer said

the ACCC report provides a clear path forward and urged the government to act.

“We strongly support the ACCC’s push for a new digital competition regime and external dispute resolution so our members can operate on a level playing field,” he said.

“Our regional, rural and local news outlets are the backbone of Australia’s democracy

and they must be supported through practical reforms and fairer digital market conditions.”

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NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JUNE 25th 2025 - Page 11

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Renovations, TV aerials, Power points, Lights, Switchboard upgrades and Rewires.

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Page 12 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JUNE 25th 2025.

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Phone: 0428 951 441 18 Napier Street, St. Arnaud.

The Fred Hollows Foundation is searching for Victoria’s unsung heroes T H E F re d H o l l ows Fo u n d a t i o n h a s opened nominations for the annual Fred and Humanity Awards, which recognise Australians who make a real difference in their communities.

Launched in 2012 as the Humanity Awards, The Foundation has celebrated more than 3,000 compassionate Year 6 students from across the nation.

In 2021, the Fred Awards were introduced, which recognises adults who care for others in a decent, practical and no-nonsense way.

The Fred and Humanity Awards celebrate the legacy and down-to-earth humanitarian spirit of eye doctor Fred Hollows, opening for nominations on what would

have been Fred’s 96th birthday.

Founding Director Gabi Hollows said, “The Fred and Humanity Awards are a testament to Fred's deep faith in the goodness of ever yday Australians.

He would be incredibly proud.

“We invite you to nominate a friend, family member or colleague in this year’s Fred and Humanity Awards.

“We all know someone who makes the world a better place and deserves to be celebrated.”

A judging panel led

by Gabi Hollows will shortlist a group of finalists who will be put to a public vote, from which the 2025 Fred Hollows Humanitarian will be decided. “The Foundation will also select a group of Year 6 Junior Ambassadors.

The Foundation’s corporate partner Specsavers supports the Humanity Awards and Fred Awards by donating $50,000 on behalf of the Junior Ambassadors and Humanitarian of the Year to The Foundation’s work to end avoidable blindness globally.

The 2024 Victorian Junior Ambassador to The Foundation and Humanity Award win-

ner was Elke Vethaak from Belgrave Heights Christian School, for being a dedicated leader and mentor within her school community.

In 2024, The Foundation named audiologist Vi Bui as

Humanitarian of the Year and recipient of the Fred Award for her work providing free hearing care to refugees, migrants and people experiencing homelessness.

“We can all make a

difference, we can make the world a better place,” Vi said.

In Victoria, The Foundation partners with the Victorian Aboriginal Health Ser vice (VAHS) to provide culturally

appropriate eye care.

The Fred and Humanity Awards are open for nominations until Friday 18th July 2025.

Learn more and nominate at hollows. org/awards

PRINT EXPERTS Dear Local Residents and Business Owners, At Bart ‘n’ Print, we’re proud to be your trusted provider of high-quality printing and signage solutions — proudly serving your community with the same dedication and personal service you’ve received over the years from Peter at North Central News.

In 2010, we took ownership of Creative Rural Printers, continuing a long-standing tradition of craftsmanship and care in the printing trade. We bring not only experience and professionalism but also a genuine commitment to helping local businesses and organisations succeed.

From eye-catching design: commercial printing, business cards, flyers, shopfront signage and promotional banners and vehicle wraps, our team is here to bring your ideas to life with a personal touch.

Whether you’re starting a new venture, promoting an event, or simply need reliable printing services, we’d love to work with you.

Drop in, give us a call, or visit us online — and discover what local, quality service looks like.

Warm regards, Steve Bright Owner / Founder, Bart ‘n’ Print

Above: The late Fred Hollows.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JUNE 25th 2025 - Page 13

PUBLIC NOTICE

FOR SALE

St. Arnaud Historical Society

Spend $20 or more and receive

RAFFLE WINNERS 1st prize Wally Sadler, 2nd prize John Maher

Thursday 27th and Friday 28th ONLY

Thankyou to all volunteers.

15% off Excludes fresh flowers and helium

St. Arnaud Allsorts

Ph: 5495 1161 89-93 Napier Street, St. Arnaud

EMPLOYMENT Job Vacancies Campus Negotiable • Central Intake Nurse • Community Nursing – Nurse Unit Manager • Graduate Registered Nurse • Graduate Endorsed Enrolled Nurse Donald • Home Support Assessment Officer St Arnaud • Food and Domestic Service Assistant • Education Coordinator

AT YOUR SERVICE

Christmas In July MENU -

GRAZING TABLE Coffee, Tea and Hot Chocolate, Christmas Cake, Shortbread.

MAIN MEAL Traditional Christmas Lunch; Assorted Roast Meats / Vegetables / Gravy / Cheese Sauce & Mint Sauce.

DESSERTS Christmas Pudding with Custard. Pavlova.

July 22nd 2025 - Stewart Hall St. Arnaud

Further information available at: https://ewhs.org.au/careers EWHS is an Equal Opportunity Employer, we welcome applications to all positions from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, LGBTQI+ People, and People of All Abilities.

Page 14 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JUNE 25th 2025.

SHOW ROOM CLOSURE From Friday 27th June until Friday 1st August.

Any enquiries can be made by contacting Matt 0413 084 449, Locky 0417 904 705.

Self Storage •7 DAYS ACCESS •BUSINESS STOCK •LONG OR SHORT TERM STORAGE AVAILABLE

Hayley:

0409 337 276, Luke:

0458 885 266 St. Arnaud Serenity Storage

WHAT’S ON

$25 per person BOOK YOUR TABLE NOW CALL TRACEY ON 0433 290 670 NO TAKE-AWAYS THIS WEEK

Art Exhibition Naturescapes & Images of Moonambel Official opening 28 June at 2pm St Arnaud Raillery Hub Gallery Queens Ave St Arnaud

Solicitor 116 Napier St., St. Arnaud

Practical, experienced advice in plain English Appointments also available in Charlton, Donald & Wycheproof

Ph: 5495 2595 Karen@klp.net.au

FIRST AID Course Thursday July 10th CPR HLTAID009 $85 per person HLTAID011 Provide First Aid $180 per person HLTAID012 Provide First Aid in the Education and Care Setting $230 Per Person Cheaper rates if you have a current certificate due for renewal.

9:00am-approx 4:00pm Enrol and Pay By Friday 4th July (Limited Spaces)

Top of the Town Beauty Salon For all your Hair and Beauty NEEDS

Ph: 5495 1306 ~ OPEN ~ Monday to Friday Colours, Perms, Unisex Cuts, Waxing, Teeth Whitening, Brow Wax & Tinting, Tanning etc. .

110 Napier St., St. Arnaud

St Arnaud Community Resource Centre 85 Napier St Phone 5495 1997.

Open Hours: Mondays to Fridays: 9:00am-2:00pm. or Email at: stacrc@bigpond.net.au

Rubber Stamps Creative Rural Printers 1800 591 881

AT YOUR SERVICE

Pipe dream to hit high note in Inglewood ONE of Victoria’s longest unfinished musical stories is about to hit a high note.

Nicola Kirk Physiotherapist Over 17 years experience Open Mon to Fri 63 Napier Street, ST. ARNAUD

0400 451 432 or 5495 1108 100th BIRTHDAY

Happy

100th Birthday

KEVIN Love from Cherie, Peter, Larissa, Zak, Chantelle, Monica, Jake, Paddy, Tommy, Nadia, Shane, Ruby and Logen.

DEATH NOTICE CRUMP - Gregory John 28.12.1974–13.06.2025 of Coonooer Bridge, aged 5 0 year s at Charlton Campus EWHS after a courageous battle with cancer.

Laid to rest St Arnaud Cemetery June 17, 2025.

Awaiting the resurrection.

John 5:28 & 29.

KELL FUNERALS ST ARNAUD NFDA

More than 140 years af ter it was first installed, the historic pipe organ at St Augustine’s Anglican Church, Inglewood, will be heard in its complete form for the first time, just in time for the inaugural Keys of Gold Festival, taking place across Bendigo and the Loddon region in July.

Commissioned in 1878 by prominent Inglewood businessman Joseph Tivey, the

organ was built by pioneering Melbourne organ builder George Fincham.

But due to cost constraints in the years following the gold rush, the final set of pipes was never installed.

The instrument has remained incomplete until now.

“This isn’t just a restoration, it’s a resurrection,” said Thomas Heywood, international concert

CHURCH NOTICES

DISTRICT CATHOLIC CHURCHES East Wimmera Parish

ANGLICAN PARISH OF ST. ARNAUD Christ Church Old Cathedral St. Arnaud 9.30am Every Sunday Eucharist Bealiba 8am 2nd/4th Sunday All Welcome Rev. Peter Downes Enquiries phone: 0412 957 383

BIRCHIP No Mass BOORT Saturday June 28th 7.00pm Mass BANYENA Sunday June 29th 11.00am Mass CHARLTON No Mass

UNITING CHURCH ST. ARNAUD/ STUART MILL

DONALD No Mass ST.ARNAUD No Mass

Sunday 29th June St. Arnaud 9.30am Worship Team.

WYCHEPROOF Sunday June 29th 8.30am Mass

All Welcome.

PARISH OFFICE Chris & Rob Batters Pastorial Co-ordinators Enquiries 5495 6223

Parish Coordinator: Noeline Hogan 0476 617 976

EST: 1860

5495 1043

CHURCH NOTICES

ST. ARNAUD CHURCH OF CHRIST Cnr. Queens Ave & Alma St. Sharing faith in Christ Thurs. 26th June 10.30 a.m.: Faith Group Sun. 29th June 10.30 a.m.: Worship & Communion Speaker: Andrew George Tues. 1st July 4.00 p.m.: Discovery Time for Grades 1-6 Enquiries: Church Ph: 0494 391 466

Get it through our

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(03) 5495 1055

KELL FUNERALS Est 1860

PRE PAID FUNERALS AVAILABLE 24 HOURS

Ph: 5495 1043

136 Napier Street St. Arnaud

NAFD Member

Birthday wishes to: June 25th Rhonda Pole June 26th Ruby Bibby Meagan Harvey Montana Ferguson Madi Grech-Gale Katie Hamilton Clinton Taylor June 27th Angela Garton Karen Birthisel

June 29th Jacqueline Weston June 30th Jake Swanton Kate Patching Maureen Williams July 1st Ella Harvey Maya Morris Theodore Holt

organist and Artistic Director of Bendigo Fine Music.

“After 140 years, Inglewood will finally hear the organ as Fincham intended.

“It’s an extraordinary piece of Victorian craftsmanship that’s been waiting quietly for its moment.”

The completion of the organ will be celebrated as part of Keys of Gold, a region-wide festival featuring 16 concerts, 45 artists and 11 grand historic keyboard instruments, from cathedral pipe organs to concert pianos, in venues across Bendigo,

Castlemaine, Maldon and Inglewood.

L oddon Shire Council, one of the sponsors of the Keys of Gold festival, has supported the inclusion of Inglewood as a host location.

Mayor Cr Dan Straub welcomed the opportunity to spotlight Inglewood’s musical and architectural heritage.

“The Loddon Shire is thrilled to sponsor the Keys of Gold Festival, which will see world-class performers in the charming town of Inglewood,” said Mayor Straub.

“Arts and culture is

an identified experience pillar in the Shire’s Visitor Economy Strategy, and this festival will no doubt benefit both the Inglewood community and the Loddon Shire economy.”

The project also builds on growing interest in the region’s rich heritage, with ABC’s Restoration Australia recently featuring the revival of Tivey’s 1881 mansion, Nimmitabel.

The church and the home, both commissioned in the same decade, represent Inglewood’s postgoldrush civic confidence.

The newly completed organ will be featured in a special Keys of Gold Festival performance on Saturday, 26th July 2025, from 11am-12pm at St Augustine's Anglican Church, located at 67 Sullivan Street, Inglewood, Victoria.

This concert, titled Olde World Favourites, will feature Thomas Heywood and soprano Merlyn Quaife AM, performing a selection of classical pieces, including works by Bach, César Franck, and Louis James Alfred LefébureWély.

The 2025 Inter Hotels Pool Comp Season ROUND Eight of the Inter-Hotels’ Pool Competition was played on Wednesday, 18th June, and the primary focal battleground of the round was to be out amongst the verdant fairways of the chilly northern outpost of the Country Club where the two combatant combinations from last year’s grand final met to lock cues for their

by Bob Wooley second encounter this year.

At home in Round Two, the vanquished Farmers’ Arms side had obtained a modicum of satisfying vengeance with a narrow victory but would they be able to repeat the success against the Club Two on their home patch?

The Rollers and Floggers were to begin the match from behind the eight ball however as their fearless leader, Harley Durward, had been confined to the role of spectator by a football injury, his place being taken by last year’s Royal Two captain, Simon Elliott.

The Farmers’ Arms One skipper, Leigh Watkins, was to take immediate advantage of this situation in the opening frame against Grant Doyle and he was quickly followed

by Ned Speedy Gonzales Gorrie as he rattled his way past Will Jackson.

Simon was to stem the tide momentarily against the Batlow battler, Geoff Watts but Hayden Perry was to restore the Farmers’ dominance when he advanced his team to a three games to one lead at the completion of the first round with a victory over Jake Male.

It was on this day in the year 1812 that the armies of the Duke of Wellington and Napoleon Bonaparte confronted each other at Waterloo, the battle had begun badly for the British however in round two the 23rd Royal Welch Fusiliers were to cut down the attacking French but lost their commander, Sir Thomas Picton, during the battle.

This was to be the only exception on the

chalk-stained baize of the Country Club as the fighting Farmers, led from the front by their Welsh wizard general Leigh, steadfastly resisted all attacks from the demoralized defenders to take a commanding seven games to one lead to the top of the third round.

As the victors now paused to regroup and refresh Simon vindicated his replacement for Harley by dismissing Geoff while they also won both doubles, leaving the Farmers’ boys to withdraw in triumph from the combat zone with the points by seven games to four.

The undefeated RSL side were expected to retain their untarnished status when they hosted the Sporting Club team and this anticipation was soon vindicated as Mitch Phillips, Dave Russ and Sam Postlethwaite scythed through Jesse Cook, Joel Nevill and Dayle Pitt respectively in the opening round, only Tim Wright was to ease the Club’s haemorrhaging in his contest with Kyle Postlethwaite and they were to retard it even further in the second round as Joel squared his encounter with Dave while Tim eliminated Kyle but Mitch and Sam had ordered Jesse and Dayle off the parade ground to have the Diggers leading by five games to three at the top of the third round.

The Diggers regrouped and the Clubbers were eventually overrun as Dave outgunned Joel in the only frame required in the third round and they then won both

doubles encounters for a final score of eight games to three, thus remaining in position at the apex of the ladder.

At the Parisienne quarter of town the Famers’ Arms Two team welcomed the enigmatic Countr y Club side to their establishment and it wasn’t long before the Mean Machine showed indications of their intent to improve their tenuous occupation of fourth position as crotchety captain Paul Mullins and Dan Harkin were too good for Bianca Cannon and

Luke Pole while Colliwobble crusader Des Moulday, undistracted by any Magpie misdemeanours this week as they had the bye, produced a matchwinning performance against Jack Hodges but his teammate and fellow Magpie maniac, Troy Shields, was to fail against Ash Craddock.

They then went on to win both doubles and the match by nine games to two, thereby usurping third spot on the ladder from their co-tenants the Country Club Two.

Ladder RSL Farmers’ Arms 1 Country Club 1 Country Club 2 Logan Sporting Club Farmers’ Arms 2

pts 28 24 16 16 12 4 -

Helping young platypuses find a new home HAVING that awkward conversation with your children when it’s clearly time for them to leave home is something most parents don’t look - Contributed forward to.

But if you’re a platypus parent in the Campaspe River, there’s no awkwardness at all.

It’s simply a matter of waiting until the conditions are right, watching them leave, and start making plans for the next generation.

Luckily, juvenile platypuses have the North Central Catchment Management (CMA) in their corner, helping to make the transition to adulthood that little bit easier by creating the conditions they need.

In April, the North Central CMA released an autumn flush down the Campaspe from Lake Eppalock.

North Central CMA Environmental Flows Project Manager Darren White said about 200 megalitres a day flowed from the reservoir for four days from 28 April.

“This flow will benefit a lot of animals and plants in the river, but especially the young platypuses,” he said.

“This is the time of year when they leave their nesting burrows to find a new one.

“They’ll swim up and down the river until they find their own home range, a place where they can live and not be disturbed by other platypuses.”

The Plan is available for download from www.vewh.vic.gov.au, with regular watering updates posted on the North Central CMA website www.nccma.vic.gov.au.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JUNE 25th 2025 - Page 15

AFL CV Gala Day Results 2025 LV F L , N C N A a n d H D F L representative sides come together to play netball matches against each other.

This Gala Day was held on June 22 at Marist College in Maiden Gully.

13&Under Match 1 HDFNL 15 lost LVFNL 19 Match 2 HDFNL 13 lost NCNA 23 Match 3 LVFNL 18 lost NCNA 20 Most Valuable Players HDFNL: Michala Keele LVFNL: Lana Medhurst NCNA: Willow Vearing 15&Under Netball Match 1 NCNA 25 lost HDFNL 37 Match 2

NCNA 21 lost LVFNL 22 Match 3 HDFNL 28 won LVFNL 16 Most Valuable Players HDFNL: Milla Ryan LVFNL: Ashlee Medhurst NCNA: Milla Adams 17&Under Netball Match 1 LVFNL 16 lost NCNA 44 Match 2 LVFNL 14 lost HDFNL 41 Match 3 NCNA 33 won HDFNL 18 Most Valuable Players HDFNL: Ruby Loverso LVFNL: Alina Gould NCNA: Libby Thompson AFL Central Victoria Gala Day Cup Winner – North Central Netball Association – Three years in a row.

Right: NCNA President Kim Fitzpatrick, with Willow Vearing, Milla Adams and Libby Thompson.

SUDOKU Sudoku is an 81 square number grid with nine blocks each containing nine cells. To solve the puzzle, all the blank cells must be filled in using numbers from 1 to 9. Each number can only appear once in each row, column and in the nine 3x3 blocks. You can successfully solve the puzzle just by using logic and the process of elimination.

Closely contested Charlton Golf

North Central Hockey Assoc results Under 12 Sea Lake Nandaly 0 lost to Calder Utd 6 Donald 0 lost to Birchip Watchem 7 Charlton 3 defeated Boort 0 St. Arnaud 3 defeated Wedderburn 0

- Contributed

AFTER the second round of the Club Championships, the leaderboard shows a log jam of players jostling for top position in all three grades.

Underage Sea Lake Nandaly 1 defeated Calder Utd 0 Donald 5 defeated Birchip Watchem 1 Charlton 7 defeated Boort 0 St. Arnaud bye

Women Sea Lake Nandaly 0 lost to Calder Utd 2 St. Arnaud 5 defeated Wedderburn 0 Donald bye

Men Proudly sponsored by:-

For a prompt & professional service with a smile All Major Repairs & Brands of Tyres Car/Truck/4WD Wheel Balancing Modern Laser Wheel Alignments All Battery Sizes

Phone: 0400 377 278 20 Melbourne Road, St. Arnaud Phone office 03 5495 2734 See Solution page 11

FOR ALL YOUR PRINTING NEEDS! Free Call 1800 591 881

Sea Lake Nandaly 1 lost to Calder Utd 5 Charlton 0 lost to Boort 9 St. Arnaud 6 defeated Wedderburn 1 Donald bye

Above: Women's hockey, Jayde Burke-Abbott St. Arnaud (right) and Jade Cramp Wedderburn.

Second round of championships completed at St. Arnaud EIGHT golfers contested the nine at nine on Thursday with Rob Batters and David Lanyon finishing - Contributed with 19 points just ahead of the rest.

Rob was declared the winner on a countback.

Sunday was the second round of the championship with a

good field of 22 golfers.

Scott Wright won A grade and the St. Arnaud physiotherapy best score of day

Golf at St. Arnaud Country Club A smaller field of ladies fronted up to play a stableford event on a course looking much greener last Wednesday.

Winner of the 18 hole event was Marilyn Knights, runner-up Alison Fahey.

Brenda Proctor and Chris Batters had the same scores for the 9 hole event.

Nearest the pins IGA voucher - Alison; 18th Marilyn.

TO ADVERTISE Phone: 5495 1055

Page 16 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JUNE 25th 2025.

with 75/6/69 from Tubby Drendel with 7 9 /8 /7 1 an d David Lanyon 3rd with 80/8/72.

Once again a countback decided B grade with Ernie Scilini’s 93/21/72 just a bit better than Rob Batters on 86/14/72.

Third place was Daniel Needs on 90/16/74.

Nearest the pins were Rob Batters on the 6th, Ernie Scilini on the caravan park sponsored 8th, the big hitting Colin Reyne on the 10th and Daniel Needs on the Weirs IGA 18th.

With one round to go next Sunday in the championships Scott Wr i g h t a n d C r a i g

Burn share the lead 7 shots ahead of Bill Rodger with David Lanyon 2 shots further back.

In B grade Leigh Hines holds a 5 shot lead over Rob Batters with Lindsay Baldock 1 shot further back.

In C grade Daniel Needs holds a 20 shot lead over Ernie S c i l i n i w i t h To n y Coloe another 6 behind.

In A grade it’s anyone’s guess between S c o t t Wr i g h t a n d Craig Burn, Leigh Hines will have to stumble not to hold on B grade and world war 3 will have to start to prevent Daniel Needs from winning C grade.

Rarely has there been such a situation where most of the field is still in contention to win going into the third and final round next Sunday.

A Grade: Wayne Southwell on 174, holds a 2 shot buffer from Troy Heenan 176.

Within striking distance is John Headon 183 and Matt McGurk 184.

B Grade: Anthony Hargreaves 175 leads by 2 strokes from Mark Hamley 177 with Chris Mathew’s 179.

C Grade: Jamey Soulsby 188 leads by 1 stroke from Benno Catherine 189, further back Trevor McGurk 191.

Daily stroke event results: Jeff Cox 98.27.71 had the best net of the day to receive 3 balls.

Anthony Hargreaves 86.13.73 was runner up, after surviving a countback from Benno Catherine 90.17.73.

Next best in a 3 way countback was Chris Mathew’s 88.14.74 from Wayne Southwell 85.11.74 and Peter Sexton 97.27.74.

Nearest the pins, sponsored by Charlton Newsagency. 2nd J. Headon, 7th M. Hamley, 14th W. Southwell.

Championship dinner to be held after play on Sunday at 6pm.

Please bring a casserole or sweet to share and celebrate the winners.

Results Charlton Vs Boort netball round 9 14 & Under A Charlton 14 def by Boort 39 Teejet Best: Anna Fitzpatrick; Ladies Auxiliary Coaches: Isabella Stahl; NWAG & Charlton Caravan Park “Have a Crack”: Marly Morkos 17 & Under A Attackers combined well using front cuts and strong movements to bring the ball down the court and create valuable scoring opportunities.

The midcourters fed well into the ring.

Defenders once again worked tirelessly to shut down Boort’s attack end by applying consistent pressure.

Overall the girls started really well and were with Boort for most of the game.

Unfortunately a lapse in the second half allowed Boort to pull away with the win.

A huge congratulations to Rosie Fitzpatrick who

stepped up for her first game of Under 17s and earnt herself the “Have a crack” award.

Charlton 22 def by Boort 34 Charlton IGA Best: Sarah Blair; Ladies Auxiliary Coaches: Maggie Riley; Caffeinated Chaos Captains Coffee: Anika Holmes-Brown C Grade With lots of speed in their legs the attacking end tried to keep the ball down our end but

Above: A Grade netball - St Arnaud v Wedderburn (left to right) Maddi Postle (Wedderburn) and Sophie O’Donnell.

Northern Central Netball Assoc results round 9 14 & Under A Donald 18 Birchip Watchem 32 Sea Lake Nandaly 1 Calder United 31 St. Arnaud 34 Wedderburn 13 Charlton 14 Boort 39 14 & Under B Sea Lake Nandaly 5 Calder Utd 10 Donald 2 Birchip Watchem 22 St. Arnaud 20 Wedderburn 11 17 & Under A Sea Lake Nandaly 27 Calder Utd 65 Charlton 22 Boort 34 St. Arnaud 76 Wedderburn 20 Donald 22 Birchip Watchem 71 A Grade Sea Lake Nandaly 42 Calder Utd 29 Charlton 30 Boort 60 St. Arnaud 22 Wedderburn 79 Donald 45 Birchip Watchem 57 B Grade Sea Lake Nandaly 29 Calder Utd 49 Charlton 38 Boort 69

St. Arnaud 42 Wedderburn 71 Donald 45 Birchip Watchem 63 C Grade Sea Lake Nandaly 37 Calder Utd 55 Charlton 19 Boort 49 St. Arnaud 35 Wedderburn 49 Donald 17 Birchip Watchem 58 C Reserve Sea Lake Nandaly 43 Calder Utd 28 St. Arnaud 20 Wedderburn 51 Ladders pts 14 & Under A Boort 36 Birchip-Watchem 32 Donald 24 Calder Utd 20 St. Arnaud 16 Wedderburn 8 Charlton 4 Sea Lake Nan 4 14 & Under B St. Arnaud 28 Boort 24 Birchip-Watchem 20 Wedderburn 14 Calder Utd 12 Donald 6 Sea Lake Nan 4 17 & Under A Calder Utd 36 Birchip-Watchem 28

Boort St. Arnaud Sea Lake Nan Charlton Wedderburn Donald A Grade Wedderburn Boort Birchip-Watchem Sea Lake Nan Calder Utd Donald Charlton St. Arnaud B Grade Wedderburn Boort Calder Utd Birchip-Watchem St. Arnaud Donald Sea Lake Nan Charlton C Grade Calder Utd Wedderburn Birchip-Watchem Boort Sea Lake Nan St. Arnaud Charlton Donald C Reserve Sea Lake Nan Boort Calder Utd Birchip-Watchem Wedderburn St. Arnaud

26 22 20 4 4 0

the second half of the game saw some strong defenders which challenged our game.

Our defenders looked just as strong this week with Erin Blair particularly bringing more determination and fight to the game.

Both ends of the court were privileged to have the ver y promising up and coming juniors.

The girls were competitive the whole game, even keeping the score line within 10 goals at the first half break.

Well done to all.

Charlton 19 def by Boort 49 Jack Thompson Construction Best: Ebony McCarthy; S&D Consulting Coaches: Erin Blair; Caffeinated Chaos Captains Coffee: Taylah Boyle B Grade Starting well particularly in our attack end however our shooting accuracy wasn’t helping our score line.

Boort came out very strong with Holly Thompson and Anika Holmes-Brown kept busy with a very tall shooter.

Few more things to focus on as a team as we get into this last half of the season.

Charlton 38 def by Boort 69 Teys Charlton Feedlot Best: Abby Mulquiny; Teys Charlton Feedlot Coaches: Sarah Blair; Caffeinated Chaos Captains Coffee: Sarah Blair A Grade Tough game for our girls this week, a few positional changes in the attack end to try and make things work.

Claudia Lee stepping back into GA and shot beautifully.

Above: A Grade - Claudia Lee (WA) passing into Charlton's attack end.

Left: U14s - Lila S putting up a shot.

Above: U17s - Lacey Smith (C) looks into Charlton's goal ring with Taylah Giles (GS).

A great consistent game for our defence end with Claire Smith providing the height we needed against Boort’s GS. Unfortunately our girls just couldn’t get a

full 4 quarter performance with Boort pushing their lead out by the final whistle.

Charlton 30 def by Boort 60 Walsh Motors Best: Megan Bruns; Walsh

Motors Coaches: Claire Smith; Caffeinated Chaos Captains Coffee: Isabel Soulsby; Connect Coffee and Stacy’s Dental Volunteer of the Day: Hayley Soulsby.

36 28 24 24 20 8 4 0 36 32 28 24 12 6 6 8 32 28 24 24 24 8 0 0 28 20 12 8 8 0

Above: Charlton's representatives for the NCNA at the Gala Day on Sunday June 22nd (left to right) - Rosie F, Stella Nicolson, Erin Blair and Maggie Riley.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JUNE 25th 2025 - Page 17

Above: Charlton coach Mitch Collins at 3/4 time.

Above: Charlton v Boort senior football Ryan McGhie and Mason Heenan.

North-Central Football Roundup Goldacres Seniors

CALDER UNITED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4.6 7.10 8.12 12.13 (85) 2.1 4. 3 5. 6 6. 9 (45) SEA LAKE-NANDALY . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Goals for Calder United: Dale Pearce 7, Jack Exell 2, Cody Green 2, Rylee Smith.

For Sea Lake-Nandaly: Max Cahoon, Thomas Cox, Bryce Delmenico, Wade Donnan, Tyson McKenzie, Adam Pattison.

Best for Calder United: Dale Pearce, Oscar Madden, Jack Marlais, Steven Kennedy, Zachary Caccaviello, Koby Hommelhoff.

For Sea Lake-Nandaly: Wade Donnan, Adam Pattison, Trent Donnan, Billy Poulton, Tyson Mckenzie, Cruz O’Sullivan.

5.6 9.11 13.13 19.16 (130) BIRCHIP-WATCHEM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

DONALD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1.1 1. 1 2. 2 4. 2 (26) Goals for Birchip-Watchem: Ben Edwards 8, Rhona Conboy 3, Nicholas Rippon 3, Jacob Christie 2, Meyrick Buchanan, Tom Gibson, Ben Lakin.

For Donald: Jett Adams, Samuel Arho, Joshua Smulders, Ross Young Best for Birchip-Watchem: Nicholas Rippon, Austin Dean, Ben Lakin, Meyrick Buchanan, Daniel Bell, Rhona Conboy.

For Donald: Thomas Reekie, Ross Young, Jett Adams, Daniel Pearce, Robert Walker, Joshua Talty.

6.4 10.4 13.5 20.7 (127) BOORT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1.1 2.2 3.5 5.5 (35) CHARLTON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Goals for Boort: Jhye Baddeley-Kelly 8, Tom Potter 2, Peter Barbopoulos, Carlos Egan, Lachlan Hall, Kieren Jaksic, Jacob Mulquiny, Will Perryman, Kayne Rutley, Tyson Rutley, Jack Smith, Nick Whyte.

For Charlton: Mitchell Collins 2, Bailey Kemp, Aaron Schofield, Rhys Thompson.

Best for Boort: Jayden Dick, Jhye Baddeley-Kelly, Lachlan Hall, Ryan McGhie, Carlos Egan, Kayne Rutley.

For Charlton: Ben Xiriha, Patrick Soulsby, Rhys Thompson, Jed Thompson, Aaron Schofield, Dan Whykes.

6.6 11.10 19.13 23.16 (154) WEDDERBURN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

0.0 2. 1 4. 3 6. 7 (43) ST ARNAUD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Goals for Wedderburn: Mitch Jensen 6, Oscar Holt 3, Mitch McEwen 3, Jye Mortlock 2, Mackenzie Smith 2, Danny Benaim, Louis Holt, Darcy Jackson, Hamish Lockhart, Joe Lockhart, Jackson McEwen, Mitchell Woods.

For St Arnaud: Bailey Nicholas 2, Max Hungerford, Owen Lowe, Jackson Needs, Jacob Tillig.

Best for Wedderburn: Joe Lockhart, Jackson McEwen, Mitch Jensen, Noah Furlong, Hamish Lockhart, Darcy Jackson.

For St Arnaud: Bradley Organ, Kurtis Torney, Max Hungerford, Thomas Bertalli, Matthew Goode, Mitch Birthisel.

Haeusler’s Reserves

CALDER UNITED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2.2 3.5 7.8 12.9 (81) SEA LAKE-NANDALY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1.0 4.1 4.1 4.2 (26) Goals for Calder United: Joel Turner 4, Brett Barker 2, George Forrester 2, Angus Forrester, Billy Forrester, Zac Kelly, Heath Senior.

For Sea Lake-Nandaly: Chase Tait 3, Tye Griffiths.

Best for Calder United: Joel Turner, Rowan Jones, Billy Forrester, Thomas Trewin, Brett Barker, Les Cooper.

For Sea Lake-Nandaly: Connor Michael, Chase Tait, Brandon Stadon, Harry Pitchford, Cooper Allan, Tom Considine.

BIRCHIP-WATCHEM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3.7 11.11 18.17 22.24 (156) DONALD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

0.0 0. 0 0. 0 0. 0 (0) Goals for Birchip-Watchem: Matthew Berry 7, Bailey Baxter 2, Bodie Colbert 2, Riley Doran 2, Alexander Hay 2, Tison Wiantara 2, Connor Boyle, Harry Cook, Riley Hogan, Connor Lee, Samuel Simmons.

For Donald: Nil. Best for Birchip-Watchem: Samuel Simmons, Riley Hogan, James Lindeback, Matthew Berry, Matthew Rickard, Tison Wiantara.

For Donald: Kalon Green, Glen Burke, Ben Farmer, Glenn Pearse, Brod Harrison, Chase Campbell.

BOORT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

6.3 10.7 13.14 16.18 (114) CHARLTON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

0.2 0.2 0. 2 0. 2 (2) Goals for Boort: Alex Cockerell 5, Max Beattie 3, Chris O’Rourke 3, Willem Toose 2, Chris Hatcher, Patrick O’Rourke, Jaxson Vella.

For Charlton: Nil. Best for Boort: Alex Cockerell, Max Beattie, Fraser Millar, Angus Trethowan, Jack Hall, Willem Toose.

For Charlton: Luke Dunne, Cooper Boyle, Declan Ryan, Ethan Needs, Fergus Bourke, Marcus Campbell.

ST ARNAUD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4.2 6.5 11.7 14.9 (93) WEDDERBURN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1.0 1.1 4.4 5.6 (36) Goals for St Arnaud: Jake Hicks 4, Joshua Hicks 3, Heath McNally 2, Hayden Torney 2, Ben Greenaway, Jarryd Kell, Jimmy McKenny.

For Wedderburn: Matthew Lockhart 2, Bradley Smith 2, Andrew Roberts.

Best for St Arnaud: Jake Hicks, Ben Greenaway, Jimmy McKenny, Jarryd Kell, Zachary Notting, Joshua Hicks.

For Wedderburn: Hayden Polglase, Robert Tonkin, Ashley Younghusband, Joshua Hall, Dylan Caruana, Callum Miller-Govett.

Community Bank Charlton & District Under-17s

SEA LAKE-NANDALY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1.0 3.1 4.3 4.3 (27) CALDER UNITED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

0.2 0.5 1.6 3.7 (25) Best for Sea Lake-Nandaly: Nate McClelland, Benjamin Barbary, Scott Barbary, Jacob Cox, Callum Mott, Cooper Kelly.

For Calder United: Rhett Hogan, Tiger Vearing, Angus Cowell, Darcy Coles, Tynan Perry, Max Fawcett.

DONALD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4.2 11.4 13.8 20.10 (130) BIRCHIP-WATCHEM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

0.1 0.1 3.1 5. 2 (32) Best for Donald: Jesse Lydom, Baxter Donnellon, Charlie Burke, Judd Geddes.

For Birchip-Watchem: Noah Dean, Bayley Kemp, Jack Knights, Willow Ryan.

BOORT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

0.1 2.5 3.6 4.11 (35) CHARLTON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1.1 1.1 2.4 2.5 (17) Best for Boort: Cooper Gooding, Luke Boyd, Deklan King, Darby Perryman, Cooper Gould, Rylan Chislett.

For Charlton: Ethan Soulsby, Jarvis Wright, Xav Good, James Fitzpatrick, Sebastian Zagame, Leigh Van Boven.

ST ARNAUD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2.3 5.3 12.5 15.9 (99) WEDDERBURN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1.1 3.3 4.4 4.6 (30) Best for St Arnaud: Austin Lowe, Bob Donald, Jack Batters, Nathan Saludes, Ethan Hilton, Archer Reyne.

For Wedderburn: Aaron Smith, Noah Winslett, Trav Lowe, Deacon Tansley, Aaron Thomas.

Next Round Round 10, Saturday, June 28 -

Birchip-Watchem v. Sea Lake-Nandaly Boort v. Donald St Arnaud v. Charlton Wedderburn v. Calder United

Uniting Church Under-14s

SEA LAKE-NANDALY 13.4 (82) D. CALDER UNITED 2.2 (14) Best for Sea Lake-Nandaly: Henry Cox, Riley Allan, Kaiden Wight, Aydan Smith, Harry Wight, Hamish Landry.

For Calder United: Zeke Harrison, Van Harrison, Jed Harrison, Cooper Allan, Beau Hogan, Desmond Polzin.

DONALD 12.7 (79) D. BIRCHIP-WATCHEM 2.0 (12) Best for Donald: Noah Michael, Nullah Clapham, Jake Italia, Toby Lydom, Samuel Mortlock, Lithil Hitihamillage.

For Birchip-Watchem: Willow Ryan, Sadidas Gardiner-Paikea, Garth Kilroy, Samuel Ferrier.

BOORT 11.4 (70) D. CHARLTON 5.4 (34) Best for Boort: Seth Muller, Luca Lanyon, Tyler Stringer, Brady Gilmore, Xavier Bramley.

For Charlton: Rhys Gahan, Joshua Bartlett, Flynn Zagame, Vincent Roberts ST ARNAUD 16.14 (110) D. WEDDERBURN 0.0 (0) Best for St Arnaud: Chase Hendy, Finn Evans, Charlie Kirk, Finn Wilson, Isaac Johns, Leo Kay. For Wedderburn: William Huismann, Jagger Benaim, Wayde Collins, Brodie Turnbull, Blake Collins.

Positions of Teams Goldacres North-Central Seniors

Teams Birchip-Watchem . . . . . .

Calder United . . . . . . . .

Boort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Sea Lake-Nandaly . . . .

Wedderburn . . . . . . . . .

Charlton . . . . . . . . . . . .

St Arnaud . . . . . . . . . . .

Donald . . . . . . . . . . . . .

P 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9

Teams Calder United . . . . . . . .

Boort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Birchip-Watchem . . . . . .

Sea Lake-Nandaly . . . .

St Arnaud . . . . . . . . . . .

Wedderburn . . . . . . . . .

Charlton . . . . . . . . . . . .

Donald . . . . . . . . . . . . .

P 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9

Pts 36 28 28 24 16 8 4 0

% 337.50 298.94 166.45 250.12 145.00 23.87 39.59 12.10

W 9 7 7 6 4 2 1 0

L 0 2 2 3 5 7 8 9

D 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

B

For 1269 1133 1007 1083 812 300 426 185

Ag 376 379 605 433 560 1257 1076 1529

D 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

B

For 961 851 905 747 477 303 279 94

Ag 144 214 311 461 510 857 829 1291

Above: Saints’ Josh Hicks looks for the best option with this handball in the Reserves match on Saturday.

PHOTO: Supplied.

Haeuslers Reserves Pts 36 32 28 20 12 12 4 0

% 667.36 397.66 291.00 162.04 93.53 35.36 33.66 7.28

W 9 8 7 5 3 3 1 0

L 0 1 2 4 6 6 8 9

Community Bank Charlton and District Under-17s

Teams St Arnaud . . . . . . . . . . .

Sea Lake-Nandaly . . . .

Boort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Calder United . . . . . . . .

Donald . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Charlton . . . . . . . . . . . .

Wedderburn . . . . . . . . .

Birchip-Watchem . . . . . .

P 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9

Pts 36 28 24 20 16 16 4 0

W 9 7 6 5 4 4 1 0

L 0 2 3 4 5 5 8 9

D 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

B

D 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

B

Uniting Church Under-14s Teams Sea Lake-Nandaly . . . .

St Arnaud . . . . . . . . . . .

Donald . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Wedderburn . . . . . . . . .

Boort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Calder United . . . . . . . .

Birchip-Watchem . . . . . .

Charlton . . . . . . . . . . . .

P 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9

Pts 32 32 24 20 12 12 8 4

W 8 8 6 5 3 3 2 1

L 1 1 3 4 6 6 7 8

Tooleybuc Sporting Club Presidents’ Award

Above: Saints’ Reserves Hayden Torney gets a quick kick away as he looks upfield against Wedderburn.

PHOTO: Supplied.

Voting for round 9: Calder United: D. Pearce 3, O. Madden 2, S. Kennedy 1.

Sea Lake-Nandaly: W. Donnan 3, A. Pattison 2, T. Donnan 1.

Birchip-Watchem: N Rippon 3, R. Conboy 2, A. Dean 1.

Donald: D. Pearce 3, T. Reekie 2, R. Young 1.

Boort: J. Dick 3, C. Egan 2, J. Baddeley-Kelly 1.

Charlton: B. Xiriha 3, P Soulsby 2, R. Thompson 1.

Wedderburn: J. Lockhart 3, J. McEwen 2, M. Jensen 1.

St Arnaud: M. Hungerford 3, B. Organ 2, K. Torney 1.

Maryborough Castlemaine District Football League

Saturday’s Leading Goal Kickers Reserves

Seniors

Matthew Berry (B-W) 7 . . . . . . . . . .25 Alex Cockerell (Boort) 5 . . . . . . . . . .25 Zachary Wemyss (SLNT) - . . . . . . . .23 Alexander Hay (B-W) 2 . . . . . . . . . .21 Heath Senior (CU) 1 . . . . . . . . . .21 John Summerhayes (SLNT) - . . . . . .20 George Forrester (CU) 2 . . . . . . . . . .20 Harry Weaver (Boort) - . . . . . . . . . .20 Joel Clohesy (SLNT) - . . . . . . . . . .17

Ben Edwards (B-W) 8 . . . . . . . . . .72 Jhye Baddeley-Kelly (Boort) 8 . . . . . .46 Jack Exell (CU) 2 . . . . . . . . . .44 Mitch Jensen (Wedd) 6 . . . . . . . . . .26 Max Cahoon (SLNT) 1 . . . . . . . . . .24 Nicholas Rippon (B-W) 3 . . . . . . . . . .24 Kayne Rutley (Boort) 1 . . . . . . . . . .21 Lachy McClelland (SLNT) - . . . . . . . .20 Thomas Cox (SLNT) 1 . . . . . . . . . .19

CHS Broadbent Club Championship

(Senior win 10 pts., Reserves 6, Under-17s 4, Under-14s 2) Boort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Calder United . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Sea Lake-Nandaly . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Birchip-Watchem . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

St Arnaud . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Wedderburn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Charlton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Donald . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Page 18 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JUNE 25th 2025.

Snr. 10 10 0 10 0 10 0 0

Res. 6 6 0 6 6 0 0 0

U-17 4 0 4 0 4 0 0 4

U-14 2 0 2 0 2 0 0 2

Ttl. 148 148 144 136 80 72 44 28

Seniors Newstead 8.19 67 Campbells Creek 5.4 34 Navarre 8.11 59 Carisbrook 10.4 64 Maryborough Giants 9.11 65 Lexton 5.10 40 Avoca 5.12 42 Trentham 24.14158 Maldon 5.7 37 Natte Bealiba 21.9 135 Dunolly 7.6 48 Harcourt 11.10 76 Talbot bye Reserves Newstead 30.8 188 Campbells Creek 0.4 4 Navarre 0.2 2 Carisbrook 16.15 111 Maryborough Giants 6.3 39 Lexton 11.16 82 Avoca 1.1 7 Trentham 25.15 165 Maldon 8.10 58 Natte Bealiba 9.11 65 Dunolly 9.6 60 Harcourt 10.5 65 Talbot bye

St. Arnaud vs Wedderburn Under 14s

Emergency Services Appreciation Round is on the horizon - Contributed

THIS Saturday, North C e n t r a l Fo ot b a l l League is participating in the Emergency Services Appreciation Round, and the St Arnaud Football, Netball and Hockey Clubs, would like to extend their appreciation, to all those members of their community who put their hand up, whether it be volunteering or paid, to help keep us all safe.

- Contributed

WHAT began as a bitterly cold and foggy morning turned into a red-hot performance from the St Arnaud Under 14s, who delivered 110–0 victory over We d d e r b u r n i n Round 9.

Fr o m t h e f i r s t bounce, the Saints set the tone with tackling, slick ball movement, and relentless for ward pressure.

Charlie Kirk got the scoreboard ticking with the opening goal, then continued to finish with an impressive five-goal haul.

St. Arnaud’s midfield was unstoppable, continually feeding the ball into a forward line that converted with ruthless efficiency.

L eo K ay, in his first year of footy, showed outstanding determination and effort, constantly putting himself in the contest.

The backline was just as strong, denying Wedderburn any chance to score and keeping the pressure high across all four quarters.

Credit to the young Redbacks, who never gave up.

Jesse James burst through a pack with strength and determination to kicked a brilliant goal.

C o a c h e s Ty s o n Johns and Dan Greenaway praised the team’s discipline, teamwork, and focus.

This round marked Headspace Round, celebrating mental health awareness in sport.

The Game Day Ball was awarded to Chase H e n d y, w h o w a s judged best on ground for his outstanding sportsmanship, skill, and encouragement of teammates and opponents alike.

Goals, Finn Wilson 1, Finn Evans 2, Duncan Kirk 2, Jesse James 2, Charlie Kirk 5, Charlie Baldwin 2 and Chase Hendy 2 Awards for the dayBanavie Chase Hendy, Uniting Church Finn E v a n s , Pa r k v i e w Bakery Charlie Kirk, Canteen Finn Wilson, Sonyas Hair Directors Isaac Johns and Croplands Leo Kay.

Above: Senior football - St. Arnaud v Wedderburn (left to right) Harrison Saunders and Ben Vacon

Foggy weather fails to dampen a stellar performance IN a thrilling Under 17s match, the St. Arnaud Saints soared to victory against the Wedderburn Redbacks on a foggy and chilly Saturday morning.

Despite the challenging weather conditions, both teams highlighted remarkable determination and talent, with several players delivering standout performances.

The Saints emerged victorious with an impressive scoreline of 15 goals, 9 points (99) to the Redbacks’ 4 goals, 6 points (30).

Their cohesive teamwork and sharp execution proved too strong for the opposition, solidifying their position as formidable

contenders in the league.

Among the Saints’ ranks, Austin Lowe, Bob Donald, Chase Zander, Jack Batters, Nathan Saludes, and Ethan Hilton proved to be instrumental in the team's triumph.

Each player contributed to the team's success with exceptional skills and unwavering commitment.

Whether it be fierce tackling, precise kicks, or tactical plays, these young athletes demonstrated why they are

Above: Saints’ Under 17’s defender Austin Lowe in action. PHOTO: Supplied

- Contributed ones to watch in the future.

Playing for the opposing side, Archer Reyne stood out and despite playing for the Redbacks, Archer’s determination and skill earned him the Headspace football award, a recognition for his outstanding contribution to the game.

As the season progresses, the Saints community will enjoy watching these young athletes continue to develop their skills.

The Saints would like to invite all, to join them at the start of the Senior game, as they, along with Charlton form a Guard of Honour for those members of both the St. Arnaud and Charlton communities (and wider district) who put their hands up for us all.

Thank you all, for what you do!

While we are on the topic of thank yous, Bruce, Luke, Von, and Tom would like to thank ALL those who contributed in any way whatsoever, in the success of our Saints G&S last weekend.

Your Donations, Your Bidding, Your Patronage, Your Banter, Your Eagerness, Your Excitement, and Your Passion helped ensure it would go down in history, as their best one yet, and simply a magnificent evening across the board.

As most of you reading this report would be aware, the Goods & Services Auction, for nearly every country football (plus netball and hockey) club, would

be the most important date on their annual calendar.

Thanks to you, the Saints, St. Arnaud, and wider community, the Saints are able to lock away some vital funding, towards their vital infrastructure, their combined sustainability, and hopeful success across the board, going forward.

It was 3 wins from 4 games on the park for the Saints last weekend.

The Seniors weren’t able to continue in the vein from the previous week, however it was heartening to see the boys fight it out, with some rather competitive football, particularly later in the game.

Both the Under 14’s and Reserves sides were able to make a bit of a statement, following their defeats to the Redbacks in Round 2, and the Under 17’s once again got the job done, and continue to fine tune things as they start their ascent towards finals action.

Last time The Saints played the Navies, it

was 3 from 4 back on ANZAC Day, in cold, wet, and windy conditions at Charlton Park.

It will take some hard work, and a good brand of Saints Team Footy across the board, but the Saints are working hard to take it up a notch, and bring home the ‘dub’ in all 4 games of Footy, with hopefully even more success both on the Hockey oval and Netball Courts.

Upcoming dates This Sat. Kids Night at the Sheep Pavilion Next Week Saints Ball at the Town Hall (Tickets available, scan the QR code in the nearby ‘What’s On’ Tile, or follow via the Saints Linktree address below) July 19 Drag Bingo at the Town Hall You can find whatever Saints info you need on our Linktree at https://l inktr.ee/StArnaudSaint s or by scanning the QR code

Above: Back from injury Saints’’ Under 17’s Frankie Donald finds space. PHOTO: Supplied

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JUNE 25th 2025 - Page 19

Page 20 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JUNE 25th 2025.

SPORT

HOME DELIVERY

Bred to run

Inside running

Ladies Golf Championships decided

WEDNESDAY’S Mar yborough winner “Lollipop” continues the success of the family of the US mare “Fanny Fern” in Victoria.

Trained by Tori Hutchins and driven

by Luke Dunne the 6yo mare was bred by the Chairman of the Victorian Harness Racing Club Emmy Mazzetti and is by “Somebeachsomewher e” from the race winning mare “Lucky Ha Ha” from the six times race winner “Lucky Bonus”.

Bred by K Winzar

- Contributed

THE 3rd round of Charlton Ladies Championships was played out Wednesday June 18th on a typical winter's golf course.

Some players adjusting better than others to the mostly green fairways.

C Grade winner is Carmel Fitzpatrick, B grade winner is Mary Headon and club Champion is Wendy Laffin with a three game total of 270 strokes.

Doreen Heanan two best netts was Chris McGurk, 72 + 80=152 Glad Dew putting is Wendy Laffin, 80 putts.

Three best netts A; Anne Kenny, B; Chris McGurk (c/b Diane Roberts) C; Wendy Hargreaves (c/b Chris Livingston) The day's competitions; winner, silver spoon and putting Wendy Laffin, r/up Carmel Fitzpatrick.

Ntp's 2nd Anne Kenny, Charlton Newsagents 7th, Kim L affin, 14th, Mar y Headon.

May monthly medal Wendy Hargreaves.

Next week we'll play a Pinehurst round.

5495 1055

and L Pocock “Lucky Bonus” was trained by Ron Pocock and amongst her wins were the 2003 Edgar Tatlow 2yo Fillies final when driven by Gavin Lang.

“Lucky Bonus” was from the “Golden Greek” mare “Free Bonus” who had five live foals that won forty-nine races between them.

“Lollipop” has now

had four starts for the Hutchins/Dunne stable for a win and two placings.

Today, Wednesday, racing is at Terang and tonight they go around at Bendigo again.

The Terang meeting is the last of the programmed Wednesday afternoon meetings for the foreseeable future with most of the day clubs shif ting to Monday racing.

Above: Club Champions (left to right) Carmel Fitzpatrick (C Grade) , Wendy Laffin (Club Champion), Mary Headon (B Grade).

Right: Wendy Laffin (Glad Dew trophy) and Chris McGurk (Doreen Heanan trophy).

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