7th May 2025

Weather

WEDNESDAY min 14° max 19°

THURSDAY min 7° max 17°

FRIDAY min 6° max 19°

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.

$2.00

WEDNESDAY MAY 7th 2025.

Registered by Australia Post, Publication No. VAC 4217.

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

(Incl. GST)

A new era dawns heralding the end of the Marland era THE North Central News is expected to have new owners from late June as long-time owners Peter and Amanda Marland prepare for retirement.

Peter and Amanda have finalised negotiations for the sale of St. Arnaud and Charlton’s newspaper to the publishers of the Loddon Herald who will continue to publish the weekly North Central News from the first edition in July.

The Marland’s have owned the North Central News, incorporating The St. Arnaud Mercur y and The Charlton Tribune that have chronicled the district’s news and events since 1864, for the past 15 years.

Peter has been part of the newspaper scene in St. Arnaud since beginning his Hand and Machine Compositor apprenticeship with The St. Arnaud Mercury in 1977.

“The North Central News and its predecessor newspaper have always had local communities at their heart, connecting local people and communities each week with their local stories,” Peter said.

“As retirement from the newspaper approached in recent months, we had initial

informal discussions with the L oddon Herald as we believe this is a newspaper that shares the values of community and connection that are essential in local country newspapers and we are delighted to have successfully concluded those talks last week.”

Owner and managing editor of the Loddon Herald, Chris Earl said he looked forward to the North Central News becoming the second masthead in the company’s stable.

“I am committed to

continuing the proud traditions of newspapers in St. Arnaud and Charlton that have mirrored their communities for more than 150 years,” Chris said.

“Peter and Amanda are to be applauded for their stewardship of the North Central News through challenging times for the newspaper industry.

“We look forward to investing in public interest local journalism that mirrors the communities of St. Arnaud and Charlton and districts and share your local stories in your local newspaper every week and online.

Above: Peter and Amanda Marland have sold North Central News and will head to retirement.

“I am pleased that Peter will play a part in the transition to new ownership and an exciting new era for the North Central News.”

The Loddon Herald was first published in

2021 after the only newspaper the Loddon Shire ceased at the start of COVID. The Loddon Herald has since been recognised with multiple awards for journalism, photography, online

news and advertising by the Victorian Countr y Press Association and the Rural Press Club of Victoria, including being named Victoria’s media outlet of the year.

East Wimmera CWA Group Bi Annual Creative Arts Exhibition WITH articles of pure perfection on display, the East Wimmera CWA Group Bi Annual Creative Arts Exhibition was held on Friday 2nd and Saturday 3rd May at the St. Arnaud Town Hall and all those that missed it due to the Federal Election voting missed a magical event.

Members from the seven branches of the East Wimmera Group - Bealiba, Cabbarita, Stuart Mill, Kara, Marnoo, Wedderburn and Wirrim (Birchip) entered over 700 entries in the Exhibition.

Over 200 people came and viewed the Exhibition over the 2 days.

The winner of the Branch Table with the Theme Secret Garden was won by Marnoo Branch.

Winners of the Best Exhibits of the exhibition were Floral Section Bronwyn Simpson, Article of Handcraft Jessica Hodder, Article of Knitting or

Crochet Sheryl Harris, One Woman’s Work Cookery Sharon Douglas, One Woman’s Work Handcraft Jessica Hodder, Best Novice Sue Brennan, Best Photography Wendy Shaw, Outstanding Junior 12 years and under Sophie Smyth, Outstanding Junior 13-18 years Lacey Jenkyn, Best Cookery Exhibit (excluding Fruit Cake) Lois Johnson, Best Fruit Cake Bronwyn Simpson.

Congratulations to all the winners and all the members who entered the Exhibition to make it such a success.

Left: Bronwyn Simpson from Cabbarita branch winner of the Floral Section and Best Fruit Cake.

- More photos page 8.

New St. Arnaud Kinder opened THE brand-new kindergarten opening in St. Arnaud provided more local families access to a high-quality education program close to home.

Member for Ripon Martha Haylett last week officially opened St. Arnaud Kindergarten with the help of some of Victoria’s youngest learners, where up to 118 kindergarten places are now available.

“The brand-new St Arnaud kindergarten will give local kids the very best start in life. It will also save families up to $2,600 per child each year with more free kinder hours available. It’s a win win for our community” Ms Haylett said.

The new modular kinder, located next to St. Arnaud Primary School, has two kindergarten rooms, an outdoor play area and carparking.

Modular kindergartens are constructed off site in a factory, in sections known as modules, to take advantage of faster construction times which minimise disruptions.

Builders then assemble the modules on site before connecting utilities, completing outdoor play areas and landscaping grounds.

Positioning kindergartens on or close to schools supports children to get the most out of their early learning, makes drop-off more convenient for busy parents and carers, and helps with a smoother transition to primary school.

• Continued on page 9

Above: Member for Ripon Martha Haylett, with son Liam, chats to a pre-schooler at the Kinder last week.

Editorial

To the Editor 18 Napier St., St. Arnaud, Victoria 3478.

Phone: (03) 5495 1055; Email: ncn@iinet.net.au

Thank you for making a difference Dear Editor, We are delighted that the St Arnaud and Navarre Communities has contributed on the ongoing success of the Good Friday appeal by

Has the rising rate of crime hit St. Arnaud Is the crime wave in St. Arnaud evidence that crime is spiraling out of control. Victoria is in a shocking state. With growing dissatisfaction in Melbourne, bail laws, gang violence, carjackings, home invasions and the state’s rising crime crisis, we in the Wimmera cannot help but be concerned.

And just when we were thinking that we may miss the rising crime crisis, we have a week to remember with break-ins, burglaries and using per capita statistics, a massive jump in crime.

Crime rates in the suburbs of Melbourne are generally higher due to a combination of factors such as high population density, active nightlife, and significant commercial activity. These characteristics naturally lead to increased opportunities for theft, public disturbances, and other minor crimes. Socioeconomic diversity and large crowds drawn to entertainment venues also contribute to these statistics.

Victoria Police are struggling to manage the crime wave, with officers stretched to their limits Victoria’s crime crisis is not an accident—it’s the result of failed policies, weak bail laws, and emboldened criminals. Unless the government takes immediate action, crime will continue to spiral out of control. It would seem after these last couple of weeks in St Arnaud that ‘spiralling out of control’ is what is happening.

Can we assume for a moment that the St. Arnaud perpetrators are mainly coming from out of town, then the fear of violence against the individual in the form of assault, public safety, may not be so great.

The Police plays a leading role in driving and coordinating crime prevention activities and campaigns in Victoria by individuals, business, community organisations and all levels of government.

Their Community Crime Prevention Unit supports crime prevention by providing local A councils and community organisations with grant funding for initiatives that respond to local crime issues.

Initiatives include improving public safety with F Regional Crime Prevention Reference Groups working with the community to ensure efficient E implementation.

Crime statistics for Melbourne in 2025 show mixed results with the overall crime level is moderate. Although crime has increased significantly in the past five years and there are concerns about home break-ins, car theft, but assaults remain low.

Worries about drug-related issues and property crimes like vandalism are moderate and violent crimes, including assault and armed robbery, are also moderate concerns. Despite these issues, Melbourne remains generally safe and it is safe to say that the worrying aspect of the crime wave is C youth crime and gang violence, both aspects of crime that we have little to worry about here.

Walking alone during the day is considered safe C and although people in Melbourne are more cautious at night (with safety dropping to a moderate level) here in the Wimmera it is still considered safe.

Youth-related property offences, including aggravated burglary, have reached their highest level since 2014, with a notable jump in incidents involving youths breaking into houses to steal car keys.

Fear mongering does nothing to make the community safer, so that is not what we will do.

Crime prevention involves the government and communities working in partnership on initiatives and campaigns to prevent crime.

The rising crime rate has led to concerns particularly from the more elderly and the rise in crime has understandably caused fear and anxiety within the community, with many reporting feeling unsafe in their own homes..

We are part of the Victorian community and it is only a matter of time before things that occur in other parts of the state will affect us here, so take more care about securing your possessions, take more care and thought about when the walk alone, but do not become anxious. Act to make yourself safe and trust that our police force will gain control.

A

raising $26,850.61 and helping kids live healthy lives and realise their full potential. Thank you The funds you have raised support groundbreaking research, state of art equipment and technology, family centred care programs

St. Arnaud, Charlton & surrounding districts

and attracting and retaining the brightest minds. In addition, the Good Friday appeal will once again extend our funding to support regional hospitals with life saving equipment and scholarships helping to keep children closer to home and build capability in the regions.

The Strength of the

Good Friday appeal lies in our dedicated community which is made up generous people and would like to particularly thank the Lions club of St Arnaud, Rolf Wacker, Marg Batters, The Farmers Arms hotel, Alayne and Nikaela.

The volunteers from the St Arnaud CFA and Dawn McKay the Coordinator in the Navarre community and all the local business who donated Goods and Services to the auction Qld A 4217Sincerely Yours John Beggs 800 652 284 Lions 1Club Area F Coordinator for the E Royal children hospital appeal

“Bad Genius” at The REX

A

A group of entrepreneurial high school seniors take matters into their own hands in The Rex movie “Bad Genius” this coming weekend.

This high-octane movie, which is an adaptation of the 2017 Thai film of the same name, follows a brilliant young Chinese American girl Lynn (Callina Liang) - a first-generation immigrant whose parents came from China with the hope of a better life, if not for themselves, then for their daughter.

Lynn receives a scholarship to a prestigious Seattle school where she is befriended by rich girl Grace (Taylor Hickson).

Lynn is slowly pulled into the Qldrich kids' worldwhere4217 she devises an ingenious cheating scheme to help her 1 800their 652exams.

284 friends pass As their underground operation expands, she soon finds herself at the center of a high-stakes game that tests her morals and pits her against the American education system.

What begins as a favor to one mate morphs into a financial opportunity for Lynn.

As the scheme grows, so TedtheWhillier does danger.

In a system that is entirely rigged by and Watson for Elaine the wealthy, why not Rosemary J own beat them at their game?

The screenplay is fast-paced and undeniably thrilling.

Callina Liang as “Lynn” effortlessly leads the cast, giving the character a slick confidence from start to finish.

An additional player in this story is Bank (Jabari Banks), another brilliant student on a scholarship, who Lynn needs to convince to put his own future on the line to aid in the scheme.

While moral direction is also a factor in the movie, “Bad Genius”, with its twists and turns, is edge-of-the-seat entertainment.

“Bad Genius” screens on Saturday

Page 2 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY MAY 7th 2025.

- Contributed 10th May at 8pm, Sunday 11th May at 2pm and Tuesday 13th May at 8pm.

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.

SUBSCRIPTIONS Annual subscription for 12 months is only $141.00 (inc. GST), including postage and packaging.

ADVERTISING & COPY DETAILS Artwork, and all advertisements or alterations are to be submitted before 5.00pm Friday prior to publication.

Announcements of births, deaths, marriages and engagements must be properly authenticated.

N.C.N. prefers advertisement and editorial copy to be typed or neatly hand-written to avoid being published incorrectly. We accept no responsibility for error or misspellings in illegible advertisement and editorial copy. © Copyright 2025

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. 8558

CROSSWORD 1

2

3

4

9

C

10

14

Elaine Watson Rosemary J

C

11 15

12

18 19 24

20

25

22

28 29 33

35

30 34

36 37

39

21

26

27

32

13

16

17

23

Ted 6 Whillier 7 8

5

38 40

31

ACROSS 2 Vital organ 6 Labyrinth 9 Footwear 10 Faithful 11 Ballot choices 12 Speed contest 14 Merciless 16 Deer’s meat 17 Pacifies 19 Weight 20 Headwear 23 Essays on themes 26 Calm 27 Classifies 28 Close friend 29 Army unit 32 Tanned skin 34 Wearies 35 Prepare for publication 36 Garments 37 Amounts owing 38 Is ahead 39 Layer 40 Cut off

Proudly sponsored by:-

W

See this week’s solution on page 6.

DOWN 1 Keen­edged 2 Riverside embankment 3 Sets apart 4 Cricket team 5 Flowers 6 Seaman 7 Woe! 8 Paradise 13 Gathering of witches 14 Throws 15 Part of a shoe 18 Distress signal 20 Cause to appear small 21 Allude 22 Biblical quotations 24 Wished 25 Speech impediment 26 Droop 28 Read attentively 29 Reposes 30 Niggard 31 Very poor 32 Fasting period 33 Tight­fisted

Council Alliance cops media criticism SOME recent media reporting has incorrectly suggested that Buloke Shire Council, along with neighbouring councils, has entered into a $100 million deal with VicGrid in relation to the VNI West transmission project.

This is incorrect.

A Five Shire Alliance, comprising Buloke, Yarriambiack, Northern Grampians (although this shire has since withdrawn), Hindmarsh, and West Wimmera, met last Thursday to agree on

three major regional priorities to advocate for in relation to VNI West.

They are: 1. Fair and equitable compensation for all affected farmers along the route; 2. Access to wholesale

electricity prices for communities hosting new generation and transmission assets; 3. Legacy housing projects to deliver long-term benefit to our rural towns.

The Shire Alliance has met with the

Victorian Minister for Energy on Wednesday, 30th April 2025, to advance these priorities on behalf of our region.

Buloke Shire Council has NOT entered into any deal with VicGrid, AEMO, or any other entity.

Advocacy is ongoing to ensure that the interests of our farming and wider communities are

fully protected and respected.

Additionally, comments attributed to Buloke Mayor Cr Alan Getley in recent media coverage were taken out of context.

Cr Getley's remarks related to the importance of securing tangible and lasting benefits for affected communities, not to the

acceptance of any funding offer or agreement.

Buloke Shire Council remains fully committed to transparency, to standing up for our landholders and residents, and to ensuring that any future

developments respect the wishes and wellbeing of our communities.

If residents have concerns or would like further clarification, Buloke Shire encourages you to contact them directly.

Raillery Hub hosts Ceramics artist Ri Van Veen WE are delighted to be able to share the creative works of Ri Van Veen who has brought the art of Raku pottery to us for an autumn showing.

This exhibition runs from May 2nd to June 22nd on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 11am to 4pm with admission free.

Ri is a ceramic artist based in regional Victoria, whose work is deeply rooted in personal history, transformation, and a lifelong connection to nature.

Growing up in Frankston to Dutch migrant parents, Ri spent her early years surrounded by the coastal rhythms of the 1970s before her family made a “bush

change” in 1980.

The next two decades were spent immersed in the land of central Victoria, In 1999, Ri returned to study, completing a Bachelor of Teaching.

Her childhood experiences and strong sense of justice led her into welfare work in schools, where she facilitated anti-bullying and wellbeing programs.

Life shifted dramatically in 2003 when Ri was diagnosed with Post Viral Fatigue Syndrome

CFS/ME. Unable to continue her career, she turned to a long-forgotten passion—ceramics.

What began as therapy quickly evolved into a dedicated and consuming artistic practice.

By 2005, Ri had returned to La Trobe University to formally study Visual Arts, majoring in ceramics.

Since then, she has cultivated a practice that is both intuitive and refined, working primarily with handbuilt forms and Raku firing techniques.

With over 20 years of experience in clay, Ri’s work explores the themes of transformation, resilience, and

the raw beauty of impermanence.

She is a recipient of multiple grants, and her pieces have been

Contributed featured in international publications and held in private collections.

Locally screened movies to enjoy! __________________________________

Vision St Arnaud Presents

A Fundraising Movie and Supper evening Just $17.00 pp !

“THE PENGUIN LESSONS” Fri 9 May @ 7.30 pm ___________________________________

“SMALL THINGS LIKE THESE” Fri 16 May @ 7.30 pm Just $12.00 pp !

Sun 18 May @ 2.00 pm Organization fundraising Ph. 0402 753 305 Gift Passes 5 for $45.00; 10 for $90.00

Above: An exquisite example of one of Ri’s pieces.

Please check our website and Facebook page for updates www.starnaudcinema.com Ph. 0400 045 081

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY MAY 7th 2025 - Page 3

St. Arnaud 100 Years Ago: 1st – 8th May 1925 Stuart Mill Races The roads were unpleasantly dusty and the rapid driving of motorists intensified the nuisance.

The distance from St. Arnaud to the Racecourse has been lessened by two miles as a new road branch-

es off the main southern road three miles from Stuart Mill on the St. Arnaud side.

Horse entries in the six races were down with four or less competing in each event.

The main event the Stuart Mill Handicap of one mile with a prize of £20, attracted four entries and was won by

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.

A S Mathew’s ‘Maclure’ in 1 min 43 secs and ridden by Cochrane, second J Carroll’s ‘Nutine’ ridden by Tayton and third J G Forte’s ‘Unifred’ ridden by Butler.

In the Handicap Novelty Pony Race of 4 furlongs with a prize of £8, R McQueen took out first and third places with ‘March Fly’ ridden by Tayton first and ‘Golden Fly’ ridden by Whately third, with A S Mathew’s ‘Alaska’ ridden by Cochrane coming second.

The day concluded with a ball in the Stuart Mill Mechanic’s Hall, which was largely attended.

Hospital Report During April there were 38 patients admitted, 36 discharged, 24 remaining and 2 deaths, Nicholas Quintrell and Edna Parkinson.

New Post Box As the receiving box at the old Post Office has been officially closed a box for letters has been placed on the corner of Napier St and Burke St and will be cleared at 6-35 am, 2 pm, 6-35 pm Mondays to Fridays and 5-55 am on Saturdays.

Proudly sponsored by:-

For a prompt & professional service with a smile

Accident

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 6

Fourteen-year-old Hilda Petrie, daughter of Mr John Petrie of St. Arnaud North was on her way to the High School when her pony fell near the railway line crossing on North Western Road.

Hilda was taken to the hospital with servere abrasions to her face and mouth.

Hospital Sunday The St. Arnaud Band collected £38/12/6 at Kooreh and the

LYAL EALES STORES Ladies Fleece Dressing Gown $19.99 $9.99 Ladies Fleece Pj Pants Ugg Slippers from $55.00 $58.99 Striped Boucle Throw Comfort Neck Wrap $25.00 Heated Throw Rug $99.99 Large Range of Beanies, Gloves, Scarves and Socks. .....

.........................................

.........................................................

.........................................

....................................................

.......................................................

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

Page 4 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY MAY 7th 2025.

Donald Band collected £15/2/6 at Swanwater West and £50/16/- at Cope Cope for the St. Arnaud Hospital.

State School Cricket Gre Gre and Gre North 51 beat Traynors L agoon and Avon Plains 49, with the most runs for the winners by F Clarke 23 and Morrison 8 and for the losers Watkins 17 and J Bryce 10.

Rifle Shoot The North Western District Union’s annual prize meeting was held on Tuesday and Wednesday af ter Easter at the local Rifle Range with seventy competitors.

Wimmera Handicap - 7 shots at 500 yards

won by J W Pickthall.

Oakley Handicap No 2 - 10 shots at 500 yards won by Cpt W Sproat of Donald.

St. Arnaud Handicap 10 shots at 600 yards won by H Rae of Mildura.

H a n d i c a p Aggregate won by J W Pickthall of St. Arnaud.

Sales A huge clearing sale was held on 21st April for the Estate of Duncan E Cameron [dec], at Dalyenong Station Homestead which included 1,556 merino sheep with 170, 4,6, and 8 tooth, specially selected merino ewes in lamb to Cobram and Collin’s high class stud rams, 359 merino flock ewes in lamb, 20 rams, 1

double and 1 single seated buggy, rabbit poison cart, Kurtz wool press, large roller wool table, Avery scales, 7 coils fencing wire, furniture for 8 rooms plus many sundries.

At the conclusion of the sale Mr A C Wemyss sold 350 pure bred merino weaners.

Mr W H Northby, who is leaving the district held a clearing at which he sold 3 draught horses, 4 ponies, a good sheep dog, a 6 ft Sunshine harvester, a near new 3 knife Cliff & Bearing chaffcutter, furniture for 5 rooms and sundies.

As Mr E Mills of Coonooer West has sold his property he has a clearing sale on 20th

by Heather Pritchard April, which included 10 cattle, 7 sheep, 6 pigs, harness complete for 14 working horses, 150 bags oats, near new 8 ft Massey Harris header, Allan portable oil engine 14 hp, 50 f t 5 inch web belting and many more items.

George Hamilton wants to sell 640 acres at Slaty Creek known as Fitzpatrick’s and at present leased to Harold Claxton Sheep Sales, at Logan - 1,045 and at St Arnaud 425.

Rain Rain for April 36 points making a total so far this year of 5 inches 10 points.

NORTHERN GRAMPIANS SHIRE COUNCIL Mayoral Report: Karen Hyslop The Easter weekend, while incredibly busy, was exceptional.

It was great to see so much activity in our towns, with plenty of locals out and about supporting the many events throughout Northern Grampians Shire.

The weather was perfect and really helped to showcase why our shire is the place to be at Easter.

Last month I attended my first meeting of the Local Government Mayoral Advisor y Panel.

The panel provides high-level advice to the State Government on key issues affecting councils statewide.

This year’s focus will be on governance and new terms for councillors.

It is an honour to be chosen to be on this panel and I really enjoyed having frank

and high-level conversations on matters that impact L ocal Government.

Enabling state and local governments to work together in this type of forum will help to create positive changes in the sector, so that together we can make decisions that better serve our communities.

On another positive note, it is good to see farmers in our district flat- out sowing legumes and canola, following the welcome and long-awaited rain that we've had in the past week. Hopefully we will have more rain to follow.

There were many Anzac Day services in our shire and all were well-attended this year.

I had an early start at the dawn service in Stawell, followed by the gunfire breakfast cooked by Stawell Tennis Club.

The tennis club crew volunteers its time every year to cook yummy bacon and eggs

Anne Webster retains Mallee seat in Federal Election NATIONALS MP Dr Anne Webster has retained the seat of Mallee at the 2025 federal election.

As of Tuesday, the Nationals were leading the count by 37,303 votes with the next closest candidate the Labor Party’s Greg Olsen on 30.34% of the Two candidate preferred vote.

Swings have been recorded for many - the Greens (3.4%) Pauline Hanson's One Nation (4.11%) Australian Labor Party (2.16%) and Anne Webster for The Nationals (1.67%).

Clive Palmer’s party at the last election, United Australia Party gained 9.07% of the first preference vote but only 3.59% of the 2025 first preference vote.

The Nationals have held the seat since 1983 and this will be Dr Webster's third term representing the electorate.

for the crowd.

After that, I headed off to a service at Great Western and back to Stawell for an 11am service.

Lest We Forget.

Wednesday last week was an exciting day as we celebrated the official opening of the new kindergarten in St. Arnaud, at the primary school site.

We are thankful to all those who have helped make this project a reality, and to all the people who continue to support the growth and development of our community.

On Friday, I attend-

ed the Grampians Wimmera Mallee Tourism Bushfire Recovery Forum at Halls Gap. It was a jam-packed afternoon listening to some interesting guest speakers, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

I also had the pleasure of attending the Grampians Grape Escape at Halls gap, which is always a wonderful event.

With the beautiful weather, what better way to spend the weekend relaxing and chatting with friends while enjoying good food, wine and music.

red by: Proudly sponso

Sprayer Centre

15% off ALL

Compression Sprayers 16 Kell Road St Arnaud, Vic 3478

Ph: 03 5495 3235

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY MAY 7th 2025 - Page 5

Charlton 100 Years Ago: 2nd – 6th May 1925

by Charlton Golden Grains Museum

Charlton’s First Sedan An object of interest in Charlton is the splendid new Model 25-6-27 5 passenger Buick Standard Six Sedan, which is the first sedan to be owned in this vicinity.

The car, which is in the ownership of Mr J. T. Dwyer, of the Vale of Avoca Hotel, is a very handsome automobile indeed.

It is electrically equipped throughout; has electric light in the rear compartment; electric foot-warmer; and electric cigar lighter.

Above: 1925 buick standard six sedan.

On the doors are double locks.

The upholstery is of an expensive type.

The automobile is absolutely rainproof.

The windows may be wound up and down, so as to transform the Sedan into an open car in suitable weather.

House Warming In spite of the large number of functions in Charlton and district, fully 30 residents paid a visit to the residence of Mr and Mrs R. H. Klunder, Clifton Hill, to welcome them home, offer wedding congratulations, and

Page 6 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY MAY 7th 2025.

wish them happiness and prosperity.

Mr W. Halligan was voted to the chair and the felicitations of the party were conveyed in the happiest terms by the chairman.

In responding, Mr Klunder returned warm thanks on behalf of his wife and himself for kindly sentiments and good wishes.

A musical programme followed.

An excellent supper, provided by the host and hostess, was done full justice to.

Everybody’s Doing It The world moves on in a succession of

fads and fancies; and t h e “ c r o s s Wo r d Puzzle” is “It” at the moment.

For the time being, it seems to have superseded wireless waves, brain waves, feminine waves and everything else.

There is, however, this to be said for the Cross Word Puzzle: unlike some of the crazes of the past, it affords interesting exercise for the brain.

Teddywaddy A fire, involving the loss of a doubleseated Ford car, 2 years old, broke out in the garage at Mr Gerard Walsh’s place;

and the only possible theory of the origin seems to be that mice may have been nibbling at the wires.

At the time (12.30am) a train was passing; but when the crew saw the blaze, the engine driver pulled up, ran across to the house, and woke Mr Walsh.

T h e t r a i n c r e w, reinforced by four men who were employed on the bridge, rendered splendid assistance.

But for their fine work, the adjoining building might have caught fire too.

In the garage Mr H. Sait and Mr Con Healy had a set of harness there.

Both these were destroyed.

Mark Masonry

A A F E

C C

The installation of the W. M. Elect, Bro. J. S. Bennett, and Investiture of Officers, of Gladstone Qld Mark Lodge No. 72, 4217 Charlton took place in the Masonic Temple.

1 800 652 284 Afterwards a banquet was held in the Victoria Hall.

For the first time in the history of Charlton freemasonry this was provided by the wives, daughters and lady friends of the brethren – and it was, as everyone said, magnificent. A Ted Whillier The usual Masonic toasts were honoured.

Elaine Watson Big Rosemary J Eagle

Shot While motoring near his property at Dooboobetic (Mrs White being at the wheel), Mr A. J. White shot a wedge tailed eagle, the gigantic bird measuring 7ft 6 inches from tip to tip.

When seen, these eagles are generally in pairs; and it was so in this case.

The eagle shot was sitting on a fence, and as the car approached, it spread its wings and rose.

It is a pity the “kill” was not effected somewhere within reasonable distance of

SUDOKU SOLUTION

a museum, as doubtless the specimen would have been deemed well worth preserving.

Football Agreement Nineteen members of the Charlton Senior and Junior Football Clubs’ Executives met in conference at Flockhart’s Cricket Club Hotel.

The discussion centred on the question of whether the Seniors should take over the Junior Club’s debts, and the Juniors be run as a Second Eighteen to the Seniors.

It was proposed and carried that one Club be formed.

Mr Halligan offered to donate 2 footballs for practice, and Mr McAuliffe 2 footballs for the first match – one for each 18.

These offers were accepted with thanks.

Birthday Party Master Jack Halligan’s ninth birthday party was celebrated by a Children’s Party at the Telegraph Hotel, the young guests present numbering 21.

Sumptuous indeed was the spread and to sandwiches, trifles, jellies, salads, lollies, etc, etc, the company did the full justice that is the distinguishing mark of youth.

The candles on the birthday cake were lit to exclamations of delight breaking from one and all.

Wearing their jazz caps with pride, pulling crackers with gusto, and playing the games dear to the hearts of children, the gues ts fo un d th at time had wings, and at the finish declared they had a glorious party.

Numerous beautiful birthday presents were received by Master Halligan.

(Information from East Charlton Tribune)

Solution No. 8558 S L I V E R M A Z E S H O E S L O Y A L D A V O T E S R A C E C R U E L V E N I S O N A P P E A S E S N V S P T O N B E R E T T H E S E S S E R E N E S O R T S P A L F X P U R E G I M E N T L E A T H E R T I R E S E D I T S U I T S E N D E B T S L E A D S T I E R S E V E R Y

Shop locally, support local business and secure your children’s future

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY MAY 7th 2025 - Page 7

East Wimmera CWA Group Bi Annual Creative Arts Exhibition • Continued from page 1.

Above: An innovative use for paint brushes.

Above: (left to right) Barbara Douglass EWG Craft Secretary, Bronwyn Simpson Cabbarita Branch, Janet Stafford Cabbarita Branch, Donna McCallum Cabbarita Branch, Wendy Shaw Kara Branch, Margaret Shaughnessy Marnoo Branch, Lois Johnson Marnoo Branch, Sharon Douglas Stuart Mill Branch, Sheryl Harris Kara Branch, Jessica Hodder Marnoo, Pam Brightwell East Wimmera Group President.

Above: The ‘Fur Fabrics’ table.

Above: Crochet article - any yarn by Sheryl Harris from Kara Branch.

Above: From Stuart Mill Branch Emilee Lloyd with her 3rd placed Novice Floral arrangement and next to her first prize.

PHOTO: S. Lloyd.

Above: The bag exhibits Left: Best Photography winner Wendy Shaw Kara Branch with her granddaughter Leni who is pictured in her winning photo, Something of Interest category.

Above: Janet Stafford Cabbarita Branch Cross Stitch winner.

Below: Crochet shawl by Sally Wright from Kara Branch won 1st prize.

Above: A good crowd of people were present at the opening and announcement of the winners on Friday at the CWA Annual Creative Arts Exhibition.

Page 8 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY MAY 7th 2025.

New St. Arnaud Kinder opened • From page 1.

This project shared in $283 million from the State Government in the Victorian Budget 2019/20 for three year-old kindergarten capital funding.

The Victorian Government is investing billions to build and expand hundreds of kindergartens across the state, supporting the delivery of 15 hours of three-year-old kinder-

garten each week by 2029 and up to 30 hours of Pre-Prep each week by 2036.

Through our Best Start, Best Life reforms, the State Government is transforming early childhood education to help children thrive, save families money, and support parents and carers to return to work or study if they choose.

Right: The kinder class last week enjoy their lunch.

Below: Northern Grampians Councillors, Mayor and CEO with the Member for Ripon Martha Haylett with the children appreciate the facilities of the new PrePrep buildings.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY MAY 7th 2025 - Page 9

In The Paddock Avoid headaches – regularly inspect your dam REGULAR inspection, monitoring and maintenance of your gully dams can reduce the risk of ‘failure’ such as leaks and bank collapses.

Agriculture Victoria land management extension officer Clem Sturmfels said stock damage, soil erosion, siltation and excessive vegetation growth can all contribute to the gradual deterioration of farm dams.

“A rapid rise in dam water levels following an extended dr y period can also add to pressure on dam banks, spillways and pipelines.

“Gully dams fail regularly across Victoria due to poor or dry soils, poor construction and lack of maintenance.

“We estimate more than 20% of gully dams in Victoria fail within a few years of being built.

“Regular inspection and monitoring of dams should be part of normal farming operations and is critical over the 6 to 12 months after

- Contributed an extended dry period as dams start to fill again.

Mr Sturmfels encouraged landholders to carefully inspect and monitor their gully dams to pinpoint issues and act before the dam completely fails.

“Landholders need to focus mainly on the dam bank, looking for signs of bank reduction, cracking or tunnelling.”

Regular inspection should include: • monitoring water levels for signs of leaks • checking the bank water line for unusual turbulence or whirlpools indicating a possible leak • checking the dam bank for signs of cracking, tunnelling or settlement • checking the dam bank, and immediately

Week ending Thursday May 1 2025

downstream, for signs of seepage, softness or lush vegetation • checking the bank to ensure it is stable, firm, free of soil erosion, has at least a metre of freeboard, a well-rounded crest and has a good cover of topsoil and grass • ensuring dam banks and adjacent areas are free of woody vegetation, including trees and shrubs • checking the spillway is stable, has good capacity and is free of debris and excessive

The benefits of stock containment in dry conditions AGRICULTURE Victoria is encouraging livestock producers to consider effective stock containment strategies to help maintain core herd or flock numbers and support pasture recovery.

Agriculture Victoria’s L and M a n a g e m e n t Extension Officer Kerri Goschnick said dry seasonal conditions and limited rainfall continue to place pressure on grazing operations,

— By Glendon Hancock

THE Australian wool market has returned from the annual one-week Easter recess to another overall loss in this series.

There were 40,295 bales available to the trade, this was 1,919 bales less than the previous series (Week 42).

The bulk of the losses were experienced on the opening day.

Across the country the individual Micron Price Guides (MPGs) movements for merino fleece ranged between unchanged and negative 25 cents.

The other sectors recorded small overall losses.

The benchmark AWEX Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) lost 14 cents for the day.

The second day the market again recorded an overall loss, although there were pockets of positive movements within sectors and within the MPGs. Of note was the 19.0micron MPG which

recorded increases of between 11 and 15 cents in Sydney and Fremantle, on the back of noticeably increased competition on these lots.

The EMI fell by a further 8 cents, closing the week 22 cents lower at 1,210 cents.

The EMI has now fallen across the last five selling days, losing a total of 54 cents across these sales.

The last time the EMI fell by more than this across five selling days, was back in June 2023, when the EMI dropped 80 cents across five selling days.

Again, currency played its usual role in the market.

A strengthening of the Australian dollar compared to the US since the close of the previous series, meant that when viewed in

National Offering Centre North South West Total

Week 44 44 44

Days 1 May 1 May 1 May

Offering 10,615 22,699 6,981 40,295

Future Offerings Week

45

6, 7 May

Source - AWEX

31,546

vegetation • checking the inlet area to ensure it is well grassed, stable and free of soil erosion • checking for rabbit or stock damage.

Reduce risks by having a reliable line of emergency communication and maintain emergency procedures so help can arrive if something goes wrong.

For more information on dam management visit: agriculture.vic.gov.au/f armmanagement/wate r/managing-dams

US dollar terms the market news was more positive.

The EMI lost just 7 US cents for the series.

Shearing has been completed for the season in many parts of the country and in selected areas yearly cropping programs have begun.

This has contributed to a reduction in the national quantity for next week.

There is expected to be 31,546 bales on offer in Sydney, Melbourne and Fremantle.

Melbourne 1188M 16.5 1722 17 1663 17.5 1617 18 1585 18.5 1564 19 1515 19.5 1496 20 1469 21 1448 22 1450n 23 1441n 24 25 730 26 598 28 430 30 363 32 330 MC 724 Ind.

Page 10 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY MAY 7th 2025.

-17

-26 -15 -18 -28 -8 -25 -15 -35 -17

impacting pasture growth and causing bare ground across many paddocks.

“Stock containment refers to confining livestock in designated areas, where farmers can effectively manage feed, water and shelter.

“This allows farm paddocks to rest until an autumn break causes pastures to recover and withstand livestock grazing.

“Stock containment doesn’t necessarily require a complicated system; it can be as simple as a sacrifice paddock with good quality water and access for feeding.

“Farmers should be aware that there is a higher risk of weed infestation when importing feed to supplementary feed livestock.

“Establishing a stock containment area to use supplementary feed will contain the weed seeds to a manageable area.

“Weeds to look out for include parthenium weed, particularly in fodder sourced from parts of QLD and NSW.

“It is important that animals in containment have their nutritional, water and shelter needs met.”

items on the Agriculture Victoria website.

For more information about drought and dry seasonal conditions support head to agriculture.vic.gov.au/d ryseasons

How can you produce safe eggs at home

As an egg producer, you're responsible for managing the food safety hazards that arise from the time eggs are laid until they leave your control.

Proper egg production and handling will

help make sure your eggs are safe for human consumption.

You're responsible for complying with the production and processing standards for eggs and egg products set by Food Standards Au s t r a l i a New Zealand in 2012.

To do this: • look after the health and hygiene of your birds • collect eggs soon after laying • handle and clean eggs carefully • check eggs for faults • never sell or give away cracked or dirty eggs • package and label your eggs properly • store and transport your eggs safely.

LISTINGS WANTED

Your legal responsibilities when selling eggs

THIS advice is intended for egg producers in Victoria who keep fewer than 50 birds (chickens, ducks or quail) and sell or give away eggs for human consumption.

It'll help you to understand how to produce safe eggs and meet your legal obligations.

Managing the hazards in egg production

Residential, Rural, Commercial & Leasing See your local

Nutrien Harcourts Real Estate team 0 -6 -10 0 -5 -8

Agriculture Victoria can assist in planning feed budgets and stock containment area design and management.

Further information can be found by searching for these

Sharlene Bertalli: 0447 952 320 Damian Drum: 0428 952 284 13-19 Napier Street, St. Arnaud

If you sell or give away eggs for human consumption you must comply with the Victorian Food Act 1984 and the Primar y Production and Processing Standard for Eggs and Egg Products (the standard).

As an egg producer, you need to under-

by Agriculture Victoria

Above: Producing eggs at home can be more than we bargained. stand how eggs can become contaminated and how to manage these hazards.

Never sell cracked and dirty eggs Cracked and dirty eggs pose a significant threat to food safety and must not be sold or supplied for human consumption.

Make sure the eggs you collect from your birds are as clean as possible. You'll reduce the number of dirty eggs if you keep nesting materials clean by changing them often, and by having nesting boxes away from roosting areas in your shed.

Council votes to request fluoridation of water NORTHERN Grampians Shire Council has at their meeting of 5th May agreed to request from the Victorian State Government Minister of Health that fluoride be introduced into the water supplies for St. Arnaud and Stawell as an important measure to significantly improve the oral health of those communities.

This request will also include that funding be allocated by the State Government to complete this task.

Cr Justine Hide is a strong supporter of fluoridation of water and she indicated that it should be on for our towns in Northern Grampians.

Fluoridation is the process of adjusted optimal level of fluoride which occurs naturally in minerals in water Whilst 99% in Melbourne’s popula-

tion have access to fluoride in water, only 88% of rural and regional have access to it.

“Surrounding shires of Ararat and Horsham already have fluoride in their water but not in

here” said Cr Hide.

“Fluoride is safe and equitable and cost effective to prevent tooth decay.

“A n d a c c e s s t o fluoride can reduce dental decay of between 26-46% in children and up to 27% in adults.

A Survey of 336 respondents showed strong support for this issue to be included in the Council plan, indicating oral health should be a focus of the Northern Grampians Shire.

Above: Around the table at the May meeting of Northern Grampians Shire Council (left to right) Trenton Fithall Director Infrastructure and Amenity, Vaughan Williams Director Corporate Services, Cr Murray Emerson, Cr Karen Probst, Mayor Cr Karen Hyslop, CEO Brent McAlister, Deputy Mayor Cr Justine Hide, Cr Jack Blake, Justine Kingan Director Strategy Prosperity and Engagement

Council to cease issuing of Building Permits leaving them to private surveyors NORTHERN Grampians Shire Council has, at its meeting of 5th May 2025 decided to cease issuing of building permits with the outcome that residents will need to go to a private surveyor for all building permits including small scale structures, such as sheds.

A strategic review has found the current service model is no longer financially

sustainable or aligned with community demand.

The decision was

based on the statistics that say that permit activity has declined significantly with private surveyors now handling 70% of local building work, however, these are predominantly higher-value and complex projects.

The decision to

cease issuing of building permits is one that is mainly financial and although this decision will save around $200,000, the savings will be put back into planned services.

It was decided that resourcing must shift to reflect reduced per-

mit volumes, maintain compliance and delivery value-for-money outcomes.

Northern Grampians Council is also exploring shares service arrangements with neighbouring municipalities to enhance long-term sustainability.

Learning The Penguin Lessons at St. Arnaud Cinema IN 1976 Tom Mitchell, an English teacher, makes his way to Argentina, and onto St. George’s, a private boys’ school in Buenos Aires Mitchell finds himself trying to teach a class of unruly rowdy and disinterested boys and added to this, Argentina itself is unsafe: it’s in political turmoil.

Disillusioned, Tom wonders how he can turn the situation around that he finds himself in.

During the school’s semester break, Tom agrees to go with one of the other teachers to nearby Uruguay for a few days.

It is here one morning that Tom takes a trip to the beach, and strolling along the shore he comes across a Magellanic Penguin distressed by an oil slick.

He takes the bird back to the flat of a woman he has just met, and she helps Tom lean the bird for release back into the ocean.

However, this does not go according to plan.

Tom takes the penguin back to the beach, to return it to the water.

Contributed But the bird stubbornly refuses to leave and decides to befriend a reluctant Tom. The penguin follows Tom everywhere he goes.

He takes it to the zoo and tries to re-home the bird, but that is problematic.

Eventually, Tom decides to keep the bird, and names it Juan Salvador.

Keeping the penguin present problems and takes Tom’s life in a new direction.

There are excellent performances from all actors in this heartwarming story – a must for all to see.

Starring Steve Coogan, Jonathan Pryce, Vivian El Jaber, Bjorn Gustaffson.

This movie is a fundraiser for Vision St. Arnaud.

Screening takes place at 7.30pm on 9th May followed by a lovely supper.

Cost per ticket is $17.00.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY MAY 7th 2025 - Page 11

PUBLIC NOTICE

St Arnaud Angling Club Thank you to Weirs Supermarket and all those who supported the wood raffle.

For enquiries please call

Winner

Dylan 0455 445 492

Julie Johns

For all your Electrical needs including the following.

Industrial • New Installation.

• Maintenance and alterations.

• Process equipment wiring • Main control cabinet design and wiring • PLC and automation wiring • PLC and HMI programming • Electrical Engerineering • Electrical Drafting • Maintenance and fault finding • Generator back up systems • Camera system supply and installation • Generator Supply and hire.

Rural • Power upgrades • Underground wiring • Silo system • Shearing Shed wiring and Maintenace • Underground wiring • Generator Back up Systems • Camera system supply and installation

Domestic • Underground wiring • Switchboard upgrades • New house wiring • Additional and alterations • Rewiring • Ceiling fans • Airconditioning • Smoke alarms • Generator back up systems • Camera system supply and installation • Electrical House inspections

We are Proudly servicing the local community.

Page 12 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY MAY 7th 2025.

EMPLOYMENT

REC 27376

St. Arnaud Badminton to commence on Wednesday 14th May at 7pm at St Arnaud Stadium.

MEETINGS

St. Arnaud & District Orchid Society Meeting Friday 9th May 2025 7.30pm

Job Vacancies Campus Negotiable • Community Nursing – Acting Nurse Unit Manager Birchip • Resident Lifestyle Coordinator Donald • Enrolled Nurse St Arnaud • Associate Nurse Unit Manager • Ward Clerk • Registered Nurse • Enrolled Nurse 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.

Catholic Parish Centre, On the corner of Queen’s Ave and Alma St.

St. Arnaud Field Naturalists Club

Annual General Meeting Wednesday 21st May at 1:30pm Raillery Hub (Railway Art Gallery) Meeting Room Guest Speaker Afternoon Tea to Follow All Welcome.

St. Arnaud Friends of the Library

Annual General Meeting Thursday 22nd May 2025 St Arnaud Library 3:00 pm All Welcome.

FOR RENT

HOUSE FOR RENT IN STUART MILL Ph: 0418 575 500.

AT YOUR SERVICE

•I R O N S T O N E R E M O VA L S Maryborough- runs south.

Phone: 0412 726 432.

TO ADVERTISE PH: 5495 1055

Audit and Risk Committee External Member Expressions of Interest Expressions of interest are sought from suitably qualified individuals to be appointed as an external member to council’s Audit and Risk Committee for a period of three years.

The Audit and Risk Committee is an independent advisory committee to the council, established to assist in the effective conduct of council’s responsibilities for good governance, the management of risk, financial reporting and maintenance of reliable systems and internal controls to facilitate the achievement of its organisational objectives.

The external member is required to demonstrate expertise in financial management, environmental management, risk and experience in public sector management and be conversant with financial and other reporting requirements.

An honorarium is payable per meeting to external members.

A copy of the Audit and Risk Committee Charter and Guidelines, which clearly sets out the committee’s roles and responsibilities, is available from the council’s website www.ngshire.vic.gov.au under the Governance/ Audit and Risk Committee menu or from Customer Support at council offices in Stawell and St. Arnaud. Any questions regarding the p o s i t i o n c a n b e d i r e c t e d t o Va u g h a n Williams, Director Corporate Services at vaughan.williams@ngshire.vic.gov.au or on (03) 5358 8700.

Expressions of interest, detailing background and experience and an understanding of the committee’s duties and responsibilities as detailed in the committee charter, are to be addressed to the Chief Executive Officer, PO Box 580, Stawell and be received by 1 June 2025.

BRENT MCALISTER CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

AT YOUR SERVICE

Self Storage

te Apprecia

Mum & Grandma

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

by giving fresh flowers .... quality fresh, beautiful flowers

Hayley:

at St. Arnaud Allsorts

0409 337 276,

Napier Street, St. Arnaud

0458 885 266

Solicitor 116 Napier St., St. Arnaud

for Lease in St. Arnaud Great location on Melbourne Road with a secure yard We have three options available for lease.

Practical, experienced advice in plain English

Enjoy and celebrate this amazing milestone.

Appointments also available in Charlton, Donald & Wycheproof

All our love, from your kids - Kaye and Steve, Scott and Mel, Kim and Rob and Lisa.

Ph: 5495 2595

OPTION 1 Newly renovated office block with large industrial shed, lunchroom and front display yard on Melbourne Road.

Karen@klp.net.au

OPTION 2 Industrial shed with yard.

OPTION 3 Large industrial secure yard with water connected for general storage, Truck parking or Machinery storage.

Nicola Kirk Physiotherapist Over 17 years experience Open Mon to Fri

For all enquires please call Glenn 0407 333 566

TERMINATION TERMINATION

63 Napier Street, ST. ARNAUD

0400 451 432 or 5495 1108

Fire Danger Danger Period Period Fire

Top of the Town Beauty Salon

A reminder that the Fire Danger Period is scheduled to cease.

A reminder that the Firewill Danger Periodatis0100 scheduled The Fire Danger Period terminate hours to oncease. the dates shown.

The Fire Danger Period will terminate at 0100 hours on the dates shown.

Municipality Date of Termination Municipality Date of Termination

dd/mm/yyyy dd/mm/yyyy

Ararat Rural City Council 1st May 2025 Northern Grampians Shire Council

1st May 2025

ROMA

St. Arnaud Serenity Storage

Industrial Shed and Yard

1st May 2025

Happy 90th Birthday

Luke:

Call... St. Arnaud Allsorts 5495 1161

Pyrenees Shire Council

BIRTHDAY

For all your Hair and Beauty NEEDS

Your grandkids Jonathan and Dani, Katherine and Armin, Courtney and Taylor and Jayden and Kara.

And your great grandkids - Leila, Amelie, Brooklyn and Archer.

McLEAN Roma Sending loving birthday wishes to my wonderful Mum on the celebration of 90 amazing years.

May your special day be filled with love, smiles and beautiful memories.

Love and Hugs Kim xx

TO ADVERTISE PH: 5495 1055

Ph: 5495 1306 ~ OPEN ~ Monday to Friday

Certain restrictions on the lighting of fires are in force during the Fire Danger Period.

Certain restrictions on the lighting of fires are in force during the Fire Danger Period.

Information about fire restrictions within the Country Area of Victoria can be obtained about from www.cfa.vic.gov.au, your CFAArea District Office orcan Information fire restrictions within thelocal Country of Victoria Municipal Fire Prevention Officer. be obtained from www.cfa.vic.gov.au, your local CFA District Office or Municipal Fire Prevention Officer.

Colours, Perms, Unisex Cuts, Waxing, Teeth Whitening, Brow Wax & Tinting, Tanning etc. .

110 Napier St., St. Arnaud

ivÊ"vv ViÀÊqÊ

D031PA D031PA

>Ã Ê ivviÀ > >Ã Ê ivviÀ > ivÊ"vv ViÀÊqÊ

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY MAY 7th 2025 - Page 13

THANK YOU

THANK-YOU Thanks to you everyone who sent cards, flowers, food and well wishes following the recent passing of Alan.

We greatly appreciate your kindness.

June Wood & family.

IN MEMORIAM CARROLL - David (Darby) 9.5.2024 12 months has passed by and we miss you more each day.

With all our love Joan, Sharon and Lauren.

CHURCH NOTICES

DEATH NOTICE CRUTCH - William Robert “Bill” 29.04.1941 – 28.04.2025 Bill passed away peacefully on the eve of his 84th Birthday with his family and close friends by his side.

Loved Husband of Beth.

Dearly loved Father of Sarah and Andrew.

Future Father-in-law of Lianah.

Treasured Brother, Brother-in-law, Uncle, Great Uncle, and friend.

In God’s Care A Thanksgiving Service to celebrate Bill’s life will be held at St. Martin’s Anglican Church, 3 Armstrong Street, Charlton on FRIDAY 9th May at 2.00pm.

Following the service the cortege will leave for the Charlton Monumental Cemetery.

A Livestream of the Service will be available to view at www.napierpark.com.au

Lorys 5th May 2024 To my dearest Lorys, One year ago you left me. One year ago you broke my heart.

So many beautiful memories of our times shared.

So many tears shed.

So many smiles missed.

I’m looking after your garden, and Ollie is just fine, enjoying his daily walks!

Your special rose “Unconditional Love” blooms brightly.

“If Roses grow in Heaven Lord, please pick a bunch for me. Place them in Lorys’ arms and tell her they’re from me.

Tell Lorys that I love her and miss her every day, and when she turns to smile, place a kiss upon her cheek and hold her for a while.

Because remembering Lorys is easy, I do it every day, but there’s a hole within my heart that will never go away.”

Your loving husband Stephen XXX

Crutch, William (Bill) (2990334) Member of Buckrabanyule Fire Brigade.

The Captain and members of Buckrabanyule regret the sudden passing of our colleague.

A dedicated and active member for over 65 years, and much loved member of the local community.

Our deepest sympathies are with Beth and family.

Rest in peace Bill.

SMALE - Dulcie Elleanor Passed Peacefully at Glenarm Kerang Aged 84 Years.

Beloved Wife of Alan (Dec). Loved Auntie to her Nieces and Nephews.

Re United with Alan

FUNERAL SMALE A Graveside Service for Mrs Dulcie Elleanor SMALE will be held at the Charlton Lawn Cemetery on Friday May 9th at 11 AM. To view by live stream go to adamsfunerals.com.au

HUGHES - Robin 4.12.1946 - 7.5.2015 10 years have gone but you are in my heart always.

Anne.

ANGLICAN PARISH OF ST. ARNAUD Christ Church Old Cathedral Friday 9th May 9.30am St. Arnaud 9.30am Every Sunday Eucharist Bealiba 8am 2nd/4th Sunday All Welcome Rev. Peter Downes Enquiries phone: 0412 957 383

CHURCH NOTICES

ST. ARNAUD CHURCH OF CHRIST Cnr. Queens Ave & Alma St. Sharing faith in Christ Thurs. 8th May 10.30 a.m.: Faith Group Sun. 11th May 10.30 a.m.: Worship & Communion Speaker: Sharon Douglas Tues. 13th May 4.30 p.m.: Discovery Time for Grades 1-6 Enquiries: Church Ph: 0494 391 466

ST. ARNAUD UNITING CHURCH ST. ARNAUD Sunday 11th May 9.30am Mother’s Day Service led by Afternoon Fellowship.

All Welcome.

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

DISTRICT CATHOLIC CHURCHES East Wimmera Parish BIRCHIP Sunday May 11th 10.30am Live Stream in BOORT Sunday May 11th 10.30am Live Stream in BANYENA - No Mass CHARLTON Sunday May 11th 8.30am Mass DONALD Saturday May 10th 7.00pm Mass ST.ARNAUD Sunday May 11th 10.30am Live Stream out to churches without mass WYCHEPROOF Sunday May 11th 10.30am Live Stream in Parish Coordinator: Noeline Hogan 0476 617 976

24 HOURS

Ph: 5495 1043

136 Napier Street St. Arnaud

Saturday, 17th May in front of the St. Arnaud Town Hall - 10.00am ’till 1.00pm.

ALL MONIES WILL GO TOWARDS THE ST. ARNAUD CFA GROUP

Page 14 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY MAY 7th 2025.

th

7-5-2025 (today)

PRE PAID FUNERALS AVAILABLE

The Rotary Club St. Arnaud is holding a Sausage Sizzle in recognition of our Firefighters for keeping us SAFE over the summer season.

program giving them the ‘real world’ skills they need to hit the road with experienced paramedics.

Mr Weston said since the introduction of Australia’s first ambulance officers training course in 1961, Victoria has remained a leader in paramedic education.

“In Victoria, we are proud to have some of the most highly trained and skilled paramedics in Australia,” Mr Weston said.

“During their induction, our new recruits learnt vital skills such as safely moving and loading patients to prevent injuries, aggression and assault prevention, and safely driving ambulance vehicles.

“Graduate paramedics initially work under supervision of clinical instructors to assist with the transition from the classroom and integrate into day-to-day team responsibilities and activities.

“However, training continues throughout their entire careers to ensure patients receive the very best, and most up-to-date life-saving care – and paramedics stay safe while they are doing so.

“Like all our hardworking paramedics, these new recruits have chosen this path because they are compassionate and courageous and want to make a difference to the community.

“It takes a special kind of person to do that, and I wish them all long and reward careers at Ambulance Victoria.”

KELL FUNERALS Tony Marland Est 1860

Community B.B.Q.

AV Operational Capability Director Trevor Weston has welcomed 20 new recruits who started their careers at AV on 28th April 2025 with a four-week induction program.

“Our paramedics, volunteers and support staff are our greatest assets,” Mr Weston said.

“It is through them that Ambulance Victoria continues to lead the way in patient care, including the nation’s best cardiac arrest survival rates.

“We now have just below 5,000 on-road paramedics delivering the very best lifesaving care, everywhere, and it’s great to see more joining our ranks.”

After their induction, the 20 new recruits will hit the road and join experienced paramedic crews on 26 May 2025.

Of the latest intake, 14 will be going to branches in Regional Victoria and six in Metropolitan Melbourne.

In Regional Victoria, this includes: • 4 in the Barwon South Region (Belmont MATS team and Leopold MATS team) • 4 in the Gippsland Region (Wonthaggi MATS team, Morwell MATS team) • 2 in the Grampians Region (Wendouree MATS team) • 2 in the Loddon Mallee Region (Eaglehawk MATS team) • 2 in the Hume Region (Shepparton MATS team) The recruits undertake a comprehensive induction and training

Happy Birthday

WANTed ads!

(03) 5495 1055

AMBULANCE Victoria (AV) has recruited 119 new paramedics since November to help respond to record demand and save lives across Victoria.

50

Get it through our

“To know her was to love her”

More paramedics hitting the road across Victoria

NAFD Member

Birthday wishes to: May 7th Paul Goodwin Ashley Medlyn Shaun Polkinghorne Joanne Wiseman May 8th Steve McCormick Patrick James Robert Pyers Olive Tatt Peter James May 9th Tony Coloe Crystal Spry

May 10th Christoper Cameron May 11th Latoya Pickthall Chris Jones May 12th Dillon Aspland Mitchell Egan May 13th Paul Grech Glenn Shepherd Abbey Tatt

“Enjoy your Golden Years” from all at N.C.N., and all your family P.S.: Don’t forget us!

(LOL)

The 2025 Inter-hotels Pool Comp Season ROUND One of the Inter-Hotels’ Pool Competition was played on Wednesday, 30th April and with the closure of the Royal hotel there have been a number of player re-locations and retirements.

Fo l l o w i n g the desertion of the majority of last year’s RSL team the noworphaned Royal One side eagerly accepted the offer to represent the RSL this year and opened their season’s campaign in the pleasant surrounds of the Sno Torney clubroom when they hosted last year’s runners-up, the Farmers’ Arms One side.

Filling in for regular Royal Dave Russ was perennial pool journeyman Shane Sanger and he put the Diggers on the board

by winning the opening frame of the match against the incumbent guardian of the David Harvey shield, Leigh Watkins however it was to be all tied up at the end of the first round after Mitch Phillips had lost his opening encounter with Ned Gorrie and the Po s t l e t h w a i t e s i b lings, Sam and Kyle, had achieved mixed results with Sam accounting for Hayden Perry while Kyle had gone down to Geoff Watts.

Leigh was to propel

his team to the lead at the top of the second round when he squared his contest with Shane but their dominance was to be short-lived as Mitch and Kyle levelled their respective battles while Sam had executed the evening’s first elimination by executing Hayden to give the Diggers the ascendency at the end of the second round, now leading by five game to three.

Leigh was to stem the bleeding temporarily when he retired Shane at the

top of the third round but the now-rampaging Diggers were on the warpath and could smell blood as Mitch and Kyle dismissed Ned and Geoff then went on to win both doubles for a nine games to four victory On the fiftieth anniversary of the fall of Saigon the beautiful belles plus two of the Farmers’ Arms Tw o b r i g a d e w e r e overrun in similar fashion by the invading horde from the wilds of the Avoca forest and, indeed, by the end of the singles encounters it appeared that there was a distinct possibility that there would

be five petite posteriors being presented to the sliver of new moon that glimmered in the icy firmament as the floundering Farmers cues-persons, Ruby Smith, Logan Hines, Bianca Cannon and Alayne Cunningham each had lowered their colours to Ben Pell, Steve Rodger, Shaun McNaulty and Peter Anderson to be down by eight games to zilch but they were saved from having to lower anything else when Logan and Bianca teamed up in the first of the doubles to defeat Ben and Keith Turner, thereby avoiding the aforementioned ignominy.

Steve and Peter then paired up against Ruby and Jack Hodges to complete the near rout however and give the Loganites a nine games to one win.

Closest match of the round took place amidst the dry, lightning-fast fair ways with the home derby between the two Country Cup teams.

Club Two captain Harley Durward, the hero of last year’s dramatic premiership victory, got their season rolling by winning the opening frame against perennial veteran Paul Mullins and, although he was eventually to lose in

• Scrap Vehicle removal • tow truck

0408 692 997

Charlie: 0409 353 161

ST. ARNAUD BLINDS

Serving St. Arnaud and surrounds

St. Arnaud Depot: 5956 Sunraysia Hwy, St. Arnaud, Vic 3478

We are NOW based in your area

PLEASE DO NOT HESITATE TO CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION

Ph. Trevor - 0421 194 711 Trading as:

HEAVEN

Melbourne Depot: c/o Effective Logistics, 8 Infinity Drive, Truganina, Vic 3029

General Transport, Machinery, Hay & Wool – Local, Country & Interstate cameron 0418 347 428 office/tracey 5495 1555

Wimmera Blinds & Awnings

Domestic and Commercial Electrical Installations

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

24/7 emergency callouts. REC: 36276

Your local option for commercial & residential solar installations Phone: 5495 1449 107 NAPIER STREET, ST. ARNAUD

FOR ALL TYPES OF INDOOR AND OUTDOOR BLINDS, SECURITY DOORS AND FLYSCREENS, ALUMINUM ROLLER SHUTTERS AND PLANTATION SHUTTERS Free measure and quote at your request.

three frames they were never headed.

Grant Doyle lost his opening frame against Troy Shields and also went down in three frames but Will Jackson eliminated Dan Harken in two frames and Jake Wild p l u c ke d Des Moulday’s feathers with Des clearly distracted by the current assumption of favouritism for his beloved Magpies in the battle for this year’s flag.

A share of the doubles saw the Country Club Two triumphant by seven games to five.

Specialising in

Unwanted vehicle removal, General towing, Breakdowns, Cars, Commercial vehicles, Farm equipment.

- by Bob Wooley

&

HELL HAIR BY

MICHELLE Owner/ Operator 15 years experience

Comfortable Home Based Hair Salon Master stylist, Blonde Specialist, Master Colourist, Curly Hair Specialist, Balayage Specialist.

All aspects of hairdressing, weddings, formals etc., facial beauty and barbering services available.

By appointment only Available 7 days a week if required.

Discounts for Seniors, Veterans and Emergency services.

Located Slaty Creek 3477, 5 minutes from St. Arnaud.

Find us on facebook

Phone Michelle on 0400 209 413

Open Wednesday to Sunday

FOR ALL YOUR PRINTING NEEDS! For all your Trophy and Engraving needs!

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

18 Napier St., St. Arnaud.

Phone: (03) 5495 1055

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY MAY 7th 2025 - Page 15

Beazley’s Bridge Brigade Shines at CFA State Championships in Mooroopna

Local Residents participate in Public Question Time

BEAZLEY’S Bridge CFA made a strong statement at the CFA State Championships over the Easter weekend, with both their junior and senior teams turning in strong consistent performances.

- Contributed Their two Under-15 teams contested strongly, with the A team securing a second-place in one event, while the B team notched three seconds and a third across the day from the five events.

That consistency had Beazley’s finishing on the podium in ever y event they entered — a remarkable achievement that had them breathing down the necks of aggregate winners, Napoleons Enfield.

Given that 2 team members still qualified as under 13 and one still 14 Beazley’s “B” tallied exceptionally well to finish second in the overall aggregate for the age group!

The event, hosted for the last time in Mooroopna, saw West Region teams dominate the field.

Brigades like Napoleons Enfield who ultimately won both junior aggregates, Beazley’s Bridge, Ascot, and Miners Rest demonstrated the region’s strength and depth, setting the bar high for future championships.

The Beazley’s Bridge Seniors open team competing in division one, thrown together on the day with members unavailable due to family Deb Ball commitments, proved that talent and teamwork can overcome limited preparation.

They delivered consistent performances throughout and managed to clinch a third-place in the Hose Reel and Ladder event — ultimately finishing 6th overall in the aggregate.

Where events are decided by fractions of seconds they were in the mix all day, an impressive outcome under the circumstances.

Meanwhile, the Beazley’s Bridge ladies in Division 2 delivered a powerhouse performance across the day, showcasing experience, teamwork, and unwavering consistency.

Event after event, they turned in strong, reliable times that

highlighted both their dedication and skill.

However, controversy loomed over the final results, with the L adies Aggregate being calculated using an average time system rather than the traditional pointsbased approach.

This system, which controversially allows a team with a disqualification in a longer running event to benefit by not recording a time, proved costly.

Under a points system, Beazley’s would have taken out the aggregate title convincingly — a testament to their dominance on the track.

While the result may not reflect on paper, their performance left no doubt that they were the best on the day.

With Mooroopna farewelled as host, all eyes now turn to Stawell, where the 2026 CFA State Championships will be held — and where Beazley’s will no doubt return ready to chase even more success.

TWO local residents, Ross Hudson and Anne Hughes were the only participants in Public Question Time at the latest Northern Grampians Shire Council meeting of 5th May 2025.

Graffiti Above: Beazley’s “B” under 15 team (left to right) Jacob Fernandes, Alex Medlyn, Finn Green and Henry Small placed second in the Tanker Drawing Water event along with 2 more seconds and a third place from their 5 events to end up second in the overall aggregate.

Above: Beazley’s Bridge senior representatives (left to right) Tom Small, Nick Wiseman, Rogie Carless, Marty Gale and Daniel Wiseman with their third place medals and trophies for the Tanker Hose Reel and Ladder event.

Left: Beazley’s ”A” under 15 team (left to right) Matilda Polkinghorne, Mary Patton, Sami Weir and Maeve Patton placed second in the Hydrant and Tanker. The girls placed 5th overall in the aggregate behind Napoleons Enfield, Beazley’s “B”, and the 2 Ascott teams, all in all a very credible outing for the Beazley’s Brigade.

Above and right: The “speedy” Smalls, sisters Lara and Mabel both placed in the fireman’s sprints which are held at the conclusion of each day, Lara placed second in the senior ladies and Mabel third in the under 13 girls division.

Page 16 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY MAY 7th 2025.

Ross Hudson posed questions to council about graffiti in St. Arnaud, saying that he noticed an increase in the amount of graffiti in the town over the last year or so.

Mr. Hudson requested whether the Council has a policy and/or procedures for the removal of graffiti.

Mr Trenton Fithall Director of Infrastructure and Amenity answered the question by indicating that no such policy exists.

“Any removal [of graffiti] is in response to finances.

“Not all that is wanted to be achieved can be.

“We try to do our best”, Mr Fithall said.

Family Violence Mr Hudson also questioned council on Family Violence and what has been achieved.

Mr Vaughan Williams, Director of Corporate Services said that funding of $270,000 over three years had been received and that a Family Violence Plan had been developed.

“We are not required to fund the plan” said Mr Williams.

Wild Horses Music Festival Mrs Anne Hughes questioned council on the Notification of Application for a Planning Permit that was advertised for the Wild Horses Music Festival in December 2025.

Her question related to whether or not any changes have been made to the Planning Permit application since it was first advertised.

Trenton Fithall responded for the council in the negative.

“But it will depend on the Notice of Objections”.

President defeats Captain’s team IT was a one sided contest for the Annual Presidents Vs Captain matchplay - Contributed event held at Charlton Golf on Sunday.

The President’s team, ably led by Jamey Soulsby showed no mercy in defeating Captain Clinton Olive’s team, 4 matches to 1.

While there was

some evenly contested matches, the end result was still a whitewash.

Results for the President’s men listed first: J. Soulsby def C. Olive.

A. Hargreaves def T. McGurk.

Benno Catherine def J. Headon.

I. Jenkins def J. Mcloughlan.

R. Postlethwaite

lost to J. Cox. Nearest the pins: J. Soulsby 7th.

T. McGurk 14th.

Next Week’s event is set down for Saturday, May 10th to avoid clash with Sunday Mothers Day.

Above: First Winter Bowls winners (left to right) Marie Hufer, Rhonda Pole and Terry McSwain.

Above: Victorious President’s team from left. Roy Postlethwaite, Ian Jenkins, Benno Catherine, Jamey Soulsby and Anthony Hargreaves.

Kara Kara Veterans Golf - Contributed

WEDNESDAY 30th May was the first Round of Kara Kara Veterans Golf.

On Wednesday 26 players played a stableford event in near perfect weather on a very dry course at Charlton.

A Grade was won by Benno Catherine from Charlton with 33 points on a countback from Mark Hamley.

B grade was taken out by St. Arnaud’s Mark McGrath with a very good score in the dry conditions of 35

Above: (left to right) Mark Hemley, Benno Catherine, Mark McGrath and Jeff Cox. L anyon 7th David L anyon 14th Kim Laffin.

The Kara Kara vets would like to acknowledge their major

sponsor for 2025 Driscoll Douglas and East who have been very generous in their support of the Veterans.

Top race callers gone

Inside running

by Archie

points.

Runner up was Jeff Cox from Charlton with 33 points.

Nearest the pins were: 2nd David

TABCORP’S media arm Sky Racing, in what has been labelled as a move to deliver further efficiencies to their business, has dispensed with the services of some of Australia’s top race callers.

Josh Fleming (QLD), Matt Jackson (NSW), Brett Davis (SA) and the legend from the Apple Isle, Colin McNiff will be no longer be heard on Sky. With turnover in free fall and on-course Parimutuel betting already a thing of the past it seems only a matter of time before racetrack broadcasters are replaced by callers working from studios such as at Sky’s headquarters in Frenchs Forrest (NSW).

Eight different callers were covering harness racing in Victoria and Kyle Galley the voice of greyhound racing in the Gippsland area has announced that he has been told that he is no longer on the roster for the trots.

With the financial climate facing the racing codes it is questionable how long practices such as the transporting of a caller to Mildura once or twice a week could continue.

“Warrantee”, at just

its second start for the John Tormey stable, was successful at Bendigo on Wednesday night for the ownership group of L Mulquiny, D Porter, W Brown, F Maher and K Maher.

The 6yo had been off the winners list since August 2023 but after working his way to the front from gate 3 the son of former handy performer “Guarantee” was much too good at the finish.

That win was the first leg of a double for John, who won later in the night with “Chogi”, and a treble for Ellen who drove the last trot winner for Kilmore trainer Bill Milner.

“Dona Amalia” topped off a good week for the Tormey stable winning the last of a six race program at Kilmore on Thursday night.

Charlton driver Luke Dunne hopped over the SA border on Tuesday night winning at Mount Gambier with “L ombok” for Zac Steenhuis and on Friday he scored a dou-

ble at Mildura including success for Merbein South trainer Jeff Gadsden on “Im Stuck Man”.

This week there is racing at Maryborough

and Bendigo on Wednesday, Ballarat on Thursday, a country front meeting at Melton on Friday and the Ouyen Cup meeting on Sunday.

Warm start for Winter bowlers - Contributed

THE first round of Winter Bowls was held last Sunday at the St. Arnaud Bowling Club, and the perfect conditions were enjoyed by 16 players, including some from a couple of other clubs.

Above: THREE WISE M--------S (left to right): Kevin Meade, Paul Micallef and Lloyd Goddard watching the next bowl come down the green.

Six teams, four triples and two pairs played two games of 10 ends, the only 2game winners, Terry McSwain, Rhonda Pole and Marie Hufer.

Runners-up with a win and a draw were Col. Marchment and Joan Earl.

Winter bowls will be held throughout the Winter months on the 1st and 3rd Sunday each month, names to be in by 12.30pm for 1.00pm start.

The St. Arnaud Bowling Club extends a welcome to all interested players.

Right: THAT'S IT. Game is over for these three ladies and they kick their bowls.

A busy week at men’s golf - Contributed

THE first round of the Kevin Nevill Singles knockout commenced at St. Arnaud Golf on Saturday.

The season has just started, there are 30 players in the draw, and it will be close to season’s end before we have a winner.

Good luck and may the battle begin.

In the first matches, John Nevill defeated Trevor McDonald on the 2nd extra hole.

A very good contest.

Scott Wright just got over the line against Tony Coloe one up, after Tony made an impressive fightback over the last seven holes to come

back from 4 down to be even with one to play, only to stumble on the last.

In the other match played, Mark McGrath, who is gradually improving, won 3 and 2 against Colin Reyne.

Winner of the daily event was Don McAllister, returning to golf after a few years off.

His score of 86-18 69 was one ahead of Ernie Scilini, and three better than Rob Batters in third spot.

Jenny Lanyon won the ladies competition with 90-12-78.

NTP’s 6th – Scott Wright 8th – Lindsay Baldock 10th – Jenny

Lanyon 18th – Bill Rodger Only 5 golfers played in the 9 holes at 9 on Thursday.

Winner was Trevor McDonald, and second Tony Coloe.

The monthly Kara

Kara Veterans day was held at Charlton on Wednesday.

Seven of our golfers competed and Mark McGrath was successful winning the B grade.

Well done Mark.

St. Arnaud Ladies Golf ON Wednesday 30th April ladies again played a stableford event on a dry and dusty course.

Winner on the day was Marg McRae with runner-up Alison Fahey.

Nearest the pins - 6th Bernice Fithall, 18th Alison Fahey.

Trish Hines was presented with the April monthly medal.

Pennant On Monday a team travelled to Wedderburn where St. Arnaud 1½ drew with Wedderburn 1½ in the morning and lost to Donald 0 - 3 in the afternoon.

Bealiba Hall Indoor Carpet Bowls - Contributed

NINE keen bowlers gave it their best this week.

Three teams of pairs and one triple saw some very interesting bowling.

Rob Dilworth had what appeared to be the shot of the night in the first game but then in the third game he played another shot to trump the first one.

No team managed the perfect score but congratulations to Malcolm Campbell and Shirley Coburn and also the team of Heather Cooper and Di Dilworth with their two wins each.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY MAY 7th 2025 - Page 17

Charlton vs Wedderburn netball 14 & Under A Charlton 10 def by Wedderburn 15 Steel’s Butcher Best: Marley McGurk; L adies Auxiliar y Coaches: Sophie Roberts; Nutrien Ag & Roberts Windrowing “Have a Crack”: Lily Mae McPhee 17 & Under A Charlton 42 def Wedderburn 32 Bendigo Bank Best: Josie Larmour; Ladies Auxiliary Coaches: Maggie Riley; Caffeinated Chaos Captains Coffee: Stella

Left: A grade Claire Smith pressure over the shot with Megan Bruns (WD) and Issy Soulsby (GD).

North-Central Football Roundup Goldacres Seniors

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

0.0 4.3 9.3 11. 4 (70) SEA LAKE-NANDALY . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1.2 3.4 5.8 8.14 (62) Goals for Boort: Jhye Baddeley-Kelly 4, Ethan Coleman 2, Jayden Dick, Carlos Egan, Jarrod Fitzpatrick, Ryan McGhie, Tom Potter.

For Sea Lake-Nandaly: Thomas Cox 3, Max Cahoon 2, Joshua Jenkins 2, Tyson McKenzie Best for Boort: Keiren Wilson, Ryan McGhie, Matt Austin, Jayden Dick, Tom Potter, Kieren Jaksic.

For Sea Lake-Nandaly: Thomas Cox, Trent Donnan, Wade Donnan, Jackson McMahon, Jack Poulton, Max Cahoon.

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

4.6 7.9 12.15 16.20 (116) DONALD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1.0 3.1 4. 2 7. 5 (47) Goals for St Arnaud: Jay Kirwood 5, Scott Driscoll 3, Sean Holroyd 2, Sam Male 2, Harley Durward, Max Hungerford, Luke Jackson, Darby Schilder For Donald: Robert Walker 3, Ben Arho, Brent Arho, Kalon Green, Luca Rice.

Best for St Arnaud: Jay Kirwood, Zac Phillips, Sean Holroyd, Mitch Egan, Scott Driscoll, Jackson Needs.

For Donald: Daniel Pearce, Luca Rice, Dyson Bell-Warren, Kalon Green, Robert Walker, Callum Vandendriest.

WEDDERBURN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3.6 4.10 12.14 20.15 (135) CHARLTON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1.0 2. 1 3. 1 4. 1 (25) Goals for Wedderburn: Oscar Holt 4, Darcy Jackson 3, Noah Furlong 2, Joe Lockhart 2, Jackson McEwen 2, Mackenzie Smith 2, Joshua Hall, Isaac Holt, Hamish Lockhart, Mitchell McEwen, Zach Pallpratt.

For Charlton: Mason Heenan 2, Ben Lanyon, Sebastian Zagame.

Best for Wedderburn: Hamish Lockhart, Jackson McEwen, Zach Pallpratt, Mitchell Mcwen, Mark Robinson, Darcy Jackson.

For Charlton: Ben Lanyon, Elliott Fitzpatrick, Jed Thompson, Ben Xiriha, Mitchell Collins, Mason Heenan.

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

4.0 8.2 11.2 14.5 (89) CALDER UNITED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2.4 7.6 9.9 13.9 (87) Goals for Birchip-Watchem: Nicholas Rippon 4, Rhona Conboy 2, Tom Gibson 2, Joseph Reid 2, Daniel Bell, Meyrick Buchanan, Jack Lee. For Calder United: Jordan Humphreys 3, Kobe Lloyd 3, Mitch Farmer, Charlie Fawcett, Koby Hommelhoff, Steven Kennedy, Jack Marlais, Rylee Smith, Daniel Watts.

Best for Birchip-Watchem: Meyrick Buchanan, Nicholas Rippon, Dale Hinkley, Rhona Conboy, Hamish Hosking.

For Calder United: Zane Keighran, Jordan Humphreys, Rylee Smith, Daniel Watts, Josh Walsh, Dean Putt.

Uniting Church Under-14s

SEA LAKE-NANDALY 5.7 (37) D. BOORT 2.1 (13) Best for Sea Lake-Nandaly: Henry Cox, Brodie Barry, Riley Allan, Finn Austerberry, Max Conlan, Gerrin Durie.

For Boort: Tristan Broad, Noah Howe, Archer Lee, Luca Lanyon, Tarlin Trinchi.

ST ARNAUD 8.3 (51) D. DONALD 4.2 (26) Best for St Arnaud: Finn Wilson, Charlie Baldwin, Patrick Zsigmond, Duncan Kirk, Riley Batters.

For Donald: Samuel Mortlock, Max Reilly, Nullah Clapham, Lithil Hitihamillage, Darnell Clapham, Jake Italia.

WEDDERBURN 8.9 (57) D. CHARLTON 2.3 (15) Best for Wedderburn: Jimi Read, Jack Dierickx, Caleb Gault, Blaz Cramp, Zane Polkinghorne.

For Charlton: Oliver McPhee, Chace Dixon, Joshua Bartlett, Isaac Roberts.

CALDER UNITED 2.6 (18) D. BIRCHIP-WATCHEM 2.5 (17) Best for Calder United: Desmond Polzin, Morgan Beattie, Van Harrison, Harry Humphreys.

For Birchip-Watchem: Willow Ryan, Archie Tyler, Denley Tyler, Jed Coffey, Eligh Dean.

Positions of Teams Goldacres North-Central Seniors

Community Bank Charlton & District Under-17s

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

3.2 5.2 6.4 9.6 (60) SEA LAKE-NANDALY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1.3 2.4 3.7 5.7 (37) Best for Boort: Cooper Gooding, Brodie McPherson, Flynn O'Rourke, Riley Wagner, Chaise Hird, Cooper Gould.

For Sea Lake-Nandaly: Cruz OSullivan, Brayden Allan, Nate McClelland, Riley Hender, Jack Hedley, Cooper Kelly.

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

5.1 8.3 10.4 11.8 (74) DONALD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

0.1 2.4 3.4 4.4 (28) Best for St Arnaud: Bob Donald, Tyler Medlyn, Christopher Chaplin, Rylan Leach, Frankie Donald, Chase Zander.

For Donald: Jam Borden, Jack Reilly, Oakley Brennan, Hugo Funcke.

CHARLTON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

0.0 6.3 7.7 8.7 (55) WEDDERBURN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

0.0 1.0 3.3 6.7 (43) Best for Charlton: Jordan Chamberlain, Isaac Bourke, Murphy Fitzpatrick, Xav Good, Owen Burr, Sebastian Zagame.

For Wedderburn: Slater Piazza, Tyson Blair, Aaron Smith, Oliver Huismann, Blaz Cramp.

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

9.4 11.6 12.9 18.12 (120) BIRCHIP-WATCHEM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

0.0 0.0 0.0 0. 0 (0) Best for Calder United: Max Fawcett, Tynan Perry, Ollie Daykin, Darcey Poyner.

For Birchip-Watchem: Oliver Cook, Noah Dean, Ben Perry, Kobe Hamilton.

Next Round Round 5, Saturday May 10 -

Sea Lake-Nandaly v. St Arnaud Birchip-Watchem v. Wedderburn

Donald v. Charlton Calder United (W) v. Boort

P 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4

Teams Boort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Calder United . . . . . . . . .

Birchip-Watchem . . . . . . .

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

Wedderburn . . . . . . . . . .

Sea Lake-Nandaly . . . . .

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

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

P 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4

Pts 16 16 8 8 8 4 4 0

% 380.52 300.99 158.33 155.56 122.84 74.61 19.44 14.57

W 4 4 2 2 2 1 1 0

L 0 0 2 2 2 3 3 4

D 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

B 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

For 586 608 380 336 285 238 111 104

Ag 154 202 240 216 232 319 571 714

D 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

B 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

For 521 487 395 232 130 226 121 21

Ag 46 47 164 190 394 281 380 631

Haeuslers Reserves

Haeusler’s Reserves

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

4.2 8.3 14.7 18.9 (117) SEA LAKE-NANDALY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

0.1 0.1 1.1 1.3 (9) Goals for Boort: Max Beattie 4, Alex Cockerell 3, Harry Weaver 3, Chris O’Rourke 2, Cameron Ross 2, Alex Chamberlain, Fraser Millar, Nick Scott, Willem Toose.

For Sea Lake-Nandaly: Zachary Wemyss.

Best for Boort: Max Beattie, Alex Chamberlain, Cameron Ross, Harry Weaver, Alex Cockerell, Fraser Millar.

For Sea Lake-Nandaly: Harry Pitchford, Tye Griffiths, Jacob Cox, Brayden Allan, Nathan Wight, Wayne Landry.

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

3.3 7.6 8.8 14.11 (95) DONALD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

0.1 0.1 1.5 2. 5 (17) Goals for St Arnaud: Jarryd Kell 4, Joshua Hicks 2, James McKenny 2, Heath McNally 2, Riley Burke, Simon Elliott, Carl Leach, Zach Notting.

For Donald: Benjamin Krause, Joe Sheridan.

Best for St Arnaud: James Mckenny, Benjamin Greenaway, Riley Burke, Joshua Hicks, Zachary Notting, Jarryd Kell.

For Donald: Will Noble, Thomas Reekie, Sam Goldsmith, Joe Sheridan, Braxton Hollis, Benjamin Krause.

WEDDERBURN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2.0 5.2 7.5 10.8 (68) CHARLTON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

6.2 6.3 8.5 10.5 (65) Goals for Wedderburn: Cameron Lang 3, Chris Hargreaves 2, Rohan McHugh 2, Luke Last, Matthew Lockhart, Joshua Turnbull.

For Charlton: Ethan Needs 5, Angus Johnstone 3, Travis Salmon 2.

Best for Wedderburn: Ashley Younghusband, Robert Tonkin, Rohan McHugh, Samual Carroll, Luke Last, Cameron Lang.

For Charlton: Jackson Zagame, Ethan Needs, Benjamin Roberts, Cooper Boyle, Tyler Bates, Angus Johnstone.

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

5.3 6.7 12.9 18.12 (120) BIRCHIP-WATCHEM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

0.0 1.0 3.2 3. 6 (24) Goals for Calder United: Heath Senior 4, Angus Forrester 3, Hunter Connolly 2, George Forrester 2, Dude Kelly 2, Thomas Trewin 2, Billy Forrester, Rowan Jones, Sol Kelly.

For Birchip-Watchem: Matthew Berry, Connor Lee, Nick Ryan.

Best for Calder United: Thomas Trewin, Jed Bish, Billy Forrester, Hunter Connolly, Heath Senior, Jack Morrison.

For Birchip-Watchem: Matthew Rickard, Bodie Colbert, Edward Rickard, Alexander Noonan, Riley Hogan, Joshua Woods.

Teams Boort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Birchip-Watchem . . . . . . .

Calder United . . . . . . . . .

Wedderburn . . . . . . . . . .

Sea Lake-Nandaly . . . . .

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

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

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

Pts 16 16 12 8 8 4 0 0

% 1132.61 1036.17 240.85 122.11 32.99 80.43 31.84 3.33

W 4 4 3 2 2 1 0 0

L 0 0 1 2 2 3 4 4

Community Bank Charlton and District Under-17s Teams St Arnaud . . . . . . . . . . . .

Sea Lake-Nandaly . . . . .

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

Calder United . . . . . . . . .

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

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

Wedderburn . . . . . . . . . .

Birchip-Watchem . . . . . . .

P 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4

Pts 16 12 12 8 8 8 0 0

W 4 3 3 2 2 2 0 0

L 0 1 1 2 2 2 4 4

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 . . . . . . . . . . . .

Wedderburn . . . . . . . . . .

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

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

Birchip-Watchem . . . . . . .

Calder United . . . . . . . . .

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

P 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4

Pts 16 12 12 8 4 4 4 4

W 4 3 3 2 1 1 1 1

L 0 1 1 2 3 3 3 3

Tooleybuc Sporting Club Presidents’ Award

Voting for round 4: Boort: K. Wilson 3, R. McGhie 2, M. Austin 1.

Sea Lake-Nandaly: T. Cox 3, W. Donnan 2, C. Michael 1.

St Arnaud: J. Kirwood 3, Z. Phillips 2, J. Needs 1.

Donald: D. Pearce 3, D. Bell-Warren 2, L. Rice 1.

Wedderburn: H. Lockhart 3, J. McEwan 2, Z. Pallpratt 1.

Charlton: B. Lanyon 3, E. Fitzpatrick 2, M. Collins 1.

Birchip-Watchem: M. Buchanan 3, N. Rippon 2, H. Hosking 1.

Calder United: Z. Keighran 3, J. Walsh 2, O. Madden 1.

Saturday’s Leading Goal Kickers Reserves

Seniors

Harry Weaver (Boort) 3 . . . . . . . . . .17 Alex Cockerell (Boort) 3 . . . . . . . . . .14 Heath Senior (CU) 4 . . . . . . . . . .14 Chris O’Rourke (Boort) 2 . . . . . . . . . . .11 Matthew Berry (B-W) 1 . . . . . . . . . .10 Max Beattie (Boort) 4 . . . . . . . . . .10 George Forrester (CU) 2 . . . . . . . . . . .9 Joel Clohesy (SLNT) . . . . . . . . . . .8

Ben Edwards (B-W) . . . . . . . . . .32 Jhye Baddeley-Kelly (Boort) 4 . . . . . . .28 Kayne Rutley (Boort) . . . . . . . . . .16 Joseph Reid (B-W) 2 . . . . . . . . . .16 Nicholas Rippon (B-W) 4 . . . . . . . . . .13 Mitch Jensen (Wedd) . . . . . . . . . .13 Jack Exell (CU) . . . . . . . . . .12 Peter Barbopoulos (Boort) - . . . . . . . . .10

CHS Broadbent Club Championship

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Page 18 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY MAY 7th 2025.

Snr. 10 10 0 0 10 10 0 0

Res. 6 0 6 0 6 6 0 0

U-17 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0

U-14 0 0 2 2 2 2 0 0

Ttl. 78 60 52 46 44 38 20 12

Nicolson C Grade Charlton 26 def by Wedderburn 57 Vale of Avoca Best: Ebony McCarthy; JS Plumbing Coaches: Mia Ayers; Caffeinated Chaos Captains Coffee: Stella Nicolson B Grade Charlton 13 def by Wedderburn 57 Teys Charlton Feedlot & Ergo and Mane Best: K ate

Stuchbur y; Teys Charlton Feedlot Coaches: Tori Hutchins; Caffeinated Chaos Captains Coffee: Kate Stuchbury A Grade Charlton 26 def by Wedderburn 47 Walsh Motors & Ergo and Mane Best: Claire Smith; Walsh Motors Coaches: Claudia Lee; Caffeinated Chaos Captains Coffee: Chloe Walsh

North Central Netball Association round 4 results 14 & Under Birchip-Watchem 26 Calder United 11 Wedderburn 15 Charlton 10 Boort 32 Sea Lake Nandaly 2 St. Arnaud 12 Donald 23 14 & Under B Birchip-Watchem 13 Calder United 6 Boort 24 Sea Lake Nandaly 6 St. Arnaud 21 Donald 3 17 Under St. Arnaud 73 Donald 16 Boort 44 Sea Lake Nandaly 23 Birchip Watchem 33 Calder United 57 Wedderburn 32 Charlton 42 A Grade Birchip Watchem 45 Calder United 44 Wedderburn 47 Charlton 26 Boort 47 Sea Lake Nandaly 37 St. Arnaud 36 Donald 57 B Grade Wedderburn 57 Charlton 13 St. Arnaud 38 Donald 32 Boort 56 Sea Lake Nandaly 41 Birchip-Watchem 44 Calder United 57 C Grade Wedderburn 57 Charlton 26 St. Arnaud 53 Donald 13 Boort 36 Sea Lake Nandaly 34 Birchip-Watchem 36 Calder United 52 C Reserve Boort 30 Sea Lake Nandaly 31 Birchip-Watchem 21 Calder United 37 Ladders pts 14 & Under A Boort 16 Birchip-Watchem 16 Donald 8 St. Arnaud 8 Calder United 8 Wedderburn 4 Sea Lake Nandaly 4 Charlton 0 14 & Under B Birchip-Watchem 12 St. Arnaud 12 Boort 8 Wedderburn 6 Calder United 4 Sea Lake Nandaly 4 Donald 2 17 & Under Calder United 16 Boort 16 St. Arnaud 12 Birchip-Watchem 8

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

8 0 0 0 16 16 12 8 4 4 4 0 16 16 12 12 8 0 0 0 16 12 12 8 8 8 0 4 16 8 4 4 0 0

North Central Hockey results round 4 Under 12 Boort 0 lost to Sea Lake Nandaly 1 St. Arnaud 7 d.

Donald 1 Wedderburn 0 lost to Charlton 1 Birchip Watchem 3 d. Calder United 2 Underage Boort 8 d. Sea Lake Nandaly 0 St. Arnaud 6 d Donald 0 Birchip Watchem 0 drew Calder United 0 Charlton bye Women Boort 10 d. Sea Lake Nandaly 0 St. Arnaud 2 d.

Donald 0 Wedderburn 1 lost to Charlton 4 Calder United bye Men Boort 8 d. Sea Lake Nandaly 0 St. Arnaud 1 lost to Donald 2 Wedderburn 4 d Charlton 1 Calder United bye.

Saints U17’s win against Donald - Contributed

A great team effort and a convincing win for the U17 saints, with every player putting in 100%

Above: Saints celebrate Driscoll’s goal - (left to right) Darby Schilder, Kurt Torney, Scott Driscoll, Luke Jackson, Mitch Egan and Zac Phillips.

- Photo by Jason Smith.

Above: Kicking 5 goals for the match and receiving best on plus the Chris “Pa” Wall Memorial medal, Saints’ Jay Kirwood shows his style in the seniors’ match against Donald on Saturday.

- Contributed.

The team spirit was high as they all celebrated loudly for no. 29 Chris Chaplin, kicking his first goal for the season, it was a ripper!

It is clear of the hard work of both the team, and the coaches are putting in this season, keep it up boys!

Final scores- Saints - 11-8-74 Donald - 4-4-28 Goal scorers:- Archer Reyne - 3, Rylan Leach 1, Austin Lowe - 2, Frankie Donald - 1, Chris Chaplin - 1, Sean Bridgeman - 1, Tyler Medlyn - 1, Max Ezard - 1.

Best players:- J and B Beggs - Bob Donald, Croplands - Tyler Medlyn, Uniting Church- Chris Chaplin, Parkview- Rylan Leach, Canteen - Frankie Donald, Sonya's Hair Directors - Chase Zander.

Saints secure strong win over Donald at Lord Nelson Park

A crisp and sunny morning at Lord Nelson Park set the scene for a cracking Under 14s clash between - Contributed St. Arnaud and Donald.

Above: Saints’ Bailey Durward forces an error - (left to right) Josh Talty, Umpire Max Higgs, Callum Vandendriest, Bailey Durward and Darby Schilder.

- Photo by Jason Smith.

Above: Waiting for the outcome (left to right) Harley Durward, Mitch Egan, George Morgan, Brady Griffith (ruck) Luca Rice, Sean Holroyd, Zac Phillips (ruck).

- Photo by Jason Smith.

Above: Saints’ Reserves Harrison Meagher closing in for the tackle - (left to right) Daniel Atkins, Seth Pearce (back), Dion Hawkes (obscured) Harrison Meagher, Ben Greenaway and Simon Elliott.

- Photo by Jason Smith.

The Saints kicked off with strong link-up play down the wing from Lewie Lowe, Finn Evans, Duncan Kirk, Arley Reyne, and Charlie Kirk, clearing the ball from defence and leading to the first goal, courtesy of Charlie Baldwin.

It was a low-scoring first quarter, with Donald dominating field position but only managing one behind.

The Saints’ defence held firm, heading into the first break ahead: St Arnaud 1.0.6 to Donald 0.1.1.

Donald struck early in the second term with their first goal—helped by their 20-player headcount—but the Saints responded quickly.

Lewis Ezard capitalised on a free kick to slot a goal, followed shortly by a brilliant effort from Duncan Kirk, who laid a spoil, followed up his own work, and snapped truly.

Sam Greenaway was everywhere around the contest, feeding the Saints’ momentum.

Just before halftime, another Saints opportunity was thwarted by the siren.

Half-time score: St Arnaud 3.2.20 to Donald 1.2.8.

The third quarter opened with an unlucky bounce allowing Donald a goal.

But a blazing run

by Lewie Lowe down the wing set up Ned Ezard for the Saints’ fourth.

Donald capitalised on a lapse in concentration to score again, but Jesse James’ textbook tackle sparked another Saints surge.

Isaac Johns fought hard to finish with a goal, and Ned Ezard almost had his second, only for it to be touched on the line.

Three-quarter time: St. Arnaud 5.3.33 to

Donald 3.2.20.

Donald again opened the scoring in the final term with another favourable bounce.

However, Saints pressure paid off with Finn Wilson snapping a great goal, then delivering a slick pass to Duncan Kirk who hit Sami Weir with a perfect kick—Sami made no mistake.

The Saints sealed the win with a clever chain from Lewis Ezard to Lewie Lowe, who found Charlie Baldwin for a strong mark and goal just before the siren.

Final score: St Arnaud 8.3.51 defeated Donald 4.2.26 Awards: • Banavie: Finn Wilson • Uniting Church:

Charlie Baldwin • Parkview Bakery: Pat Zsigmond • Canteen Award: Duncan Kirk • Sonya’s Hair Directors: Riley Batters • Croplands: Ned

Ezard A terrific team performance from the Saints—strong defence, clean link-up play, and a shared spread of goalkickers made all the difference.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY MAY 7th 2025 - Page 19

Page 20 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY MAY 7th 2025.

SPORT

HOME DELIVERY 5495 1055

Jay Kirwood takes honours, as Saints win all 4 IT was perfect conditions both overhead and underfoot last Saturday at Lord Nelson Park, and for the Saints, the results were just as perfect.

The first time each year, when the Saints host Donald, it's the C h r i s “ Pa ” Wa l l Memorial game, when the Seniors line up at 2:30pm.

For anyone who may not remember Pa, let us introduce him.

Chris “Pa” Wall was a much loved character at the Saints, and is widely regarded as one of the best players the club, and the wider district has ever seen.

He’s a 2x Feeny Medallist, 4x Best and Fairest, and a proven big game performer, having been named among the best in all 4 senior Grand Finals he played at the Saints.

In each of these contests, the player judged best on ground, is awarded the Chris “Pa” Wall Medal.

In the past, there have been such winners as James McNamee, a Nicholls Medallist (NTFL Best and Fairest) and Feeny

Medallist, as well as Ross Yo u n g , a Sandover Medallist ( WA F L B e s t a n d Fairest) and Feeny Medallist.

This year, the honours went to Jay Kirwood, with his 5 goal, best on ground performance.

Jay was named in the midfield, where he provided plenty of run and carry for the Saints, however his one true love in the game of Football, is sneaking forward and kicking snags.

After a start to the season a little slower than he’d have liked, Zac Phillips has taken some rather sizable steps back towards the form shown throughout the 2024 season, as he dominated the ruck contest, providing his midfielders first use of the sherrin.

Alongside Kirwood, midfielders such as Sean Holroyd, Mitch Egan, and Scott

Driscoll benefited from Phillips’ work, and were named among the better players.

It certainly wasn’t a perfect display by the Saints, however was nevertheless a significant stride towards the brand of Saints Footy, which coach Scott Driscoll is promoting within the group.

Aw a r d s : Jay Kirwood (Driscoll Douglas East), Zac Phillips (Douglas Hire), Sean Holroyd (St Arnaud Physiotherapy Centre) St Arnaud have made their way into the top 4 of the North Central Fo o t b a l l League reserves competition, as they made it two on the trot, with last Saturday's victory over the Royal Blues.

Jimmy McKenny is continuing his super run of form, providing plenty of drive out of the Saints midfield, and he was ably assisted by the likes of Ben G r e e n a w a y, R i l e y Burke, Josh Hicks, and a returning Zach Notting.

Australian Masters Athletics Champion, Bernie, wins Gold FORMER Wooroonook local, Bernie McLoughlan followed up his athletics medal result at the 2024 World Masters Athletics Championship in Sweden by winning a gold medal at the recent Australian Championships in Adelaide.

Representing Victoria and also winning a silver medal in the M70 age group 200m, in a personal best time of 30.23 seconds and a Bronze medal in the M70 400m.

On day 3 of the competition, he came away with the gold in the M70 Pentathlon, finishing ahead of the 2024 Australian M70 champion.

The Australian Pentathlon is made up of Long Jump, Javelin, 200m, Discus and 1500m.

Bernie also earlier this year won a silver medal for the M70 age group at the 2025 Decathlon event held in Brisbane and consisting of 10 events including the Pole Vault.

After competing in upcoming State

events, he will return to Brisbane for the Oceania Masters Athletics Championship in September, before setting sights on the 2026 World Masters Championships in South Korea.

Bernie, you are an inspiration to us all!

Right: Bernie, a wonderful example of what can be achieved at any age.

- Contributed Coach Jarryd Kell was the major goalkicker, with 4.

It will be a huge test for the Jarryd Kell and Heath McNally coached side this weekend, as they find themselves up against a Sea Lake Nandaly side, who will be looking to rebound from what might be their heaviest defeat, in their nearly 10 year affiliation with the NCFL. Aw a r d s : J i m m y McKenny (Sprayer Spares), Ben Greenaway (North West AG), Riley Burke (PhysioBiz HardAZZ) Saturday night Tonight we head down the Calder on the way home, to stop in at the Kaniera Hotel in Culgoa, for some tucker and the Awards.

Look forward to seeing you all there!

Coming soon The St Arnaud Football Netball and Hockey Club combined “ALL SAINTS

Above: 2025 the Chris Wall Memorial medal was presented by Melissa Drum (left) to Jay Kirwood.

DAY” will be happening on Saturday May 24.

It’s combined with its Pink Sports & Ladies Day. The Saints would like to invite ALL past, present, and future Players, Members, Supporters, Sponsors to enjoy their hospitality, with a particular invitation sent out to those who were involved in any way

shape or form, in their respective “xxx5” premierships.

Those being the 2015 Senior & Reser ves Football, 2015 Womens Hockey, 2005 Under 16 Football, Underage H o c ke y, U n d e r 1 3 Netball, 1985 Under 17 Football, 1975 Under 1 6 Fo o t b a l l , 1 9 6 5 Womens Hockey, and 1955 Reserves Football.

12 hole comp at Charlton ladies golf - Contributed

CHARLTON Ladies Day Wednesday 30th April; seven players entered the 12 hole competition, with Kim and Diane opting to play 18 holes in the Vet e r a n s ’ s e a s o n opening day Competition which ran concurrently at Charlton.

Winner was Marj Bartlett with 22 points, R/up Wendy Hargreaves 21points, and Ntp 7th Eily Rosewall.

Ladies Kara Kara pennant started Monday 5th May at Wedderburn.

In the morning Charlton 2 d. Sea Lake 1 and in the afternoon defeated Wedderburn 2-1 Next Wednesday is a stableford event.