14 February 2024

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St. Arnaud, Charlton, Wedderburn & Surrounding Districts

Est. 1864

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

Registered by Australia Post, Publication No. VAC 4217.

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WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 14th 2024.

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

Buloke Men’s Sheds Crafting Innovation and Well-being

Huge milestone celebrated by Memorial Pipe Band

BULOKE’S local Men’s Sheds are pouring their heart and soul into their work, and it’s with great enthusiasm that they unveil an initiative that shines a light on the community spirit and the essential role Men’s Sheds play in enriching lives.

- Contributed Bouncing back from the October 2022 floods, these amazing Men's Shed teams have been hard at work crafting some serious avian real estate as part of the "Men’s Shed Biodiversity Trail" project.

This initiative, integral to Buloke's community recovery efforts, was designed to enhance the beauty of our surroundings and boost community spirits.

However, the true essence of the initiative spotlighted the indispensable role of Men’s Sheds as pivotal social centres that promote

mental health and wellbeing.

To highlight their significance, workshops focussing on skill-sharing and collaborative learning were organised by the Buloke Shire Council, not only to bring Men’s Sheds members together to learn new skills, but also to help generate more interest in their sheds by transforming these skills into creative expressions that benefit the wider community.

With the guidance of Landcare experts in recent months, they’ve carefully selected potential sites for these

Above: Buloke Mens Shed boosting community recovery efforts with bird boxes.

innovative biodiversity boxes.

These boxes are set to become a series of unique art installations, creating a trail that not only offers a sanctuary for birds and insects but also weaves a vivid mosaic of life and colour throughout the area.

We are now inviting the broader community to share their feedback on the placement of these quirky and charming installations.

Keep an eye out for posters prominently displayed in the Men’s Shed communities of Birchip, Charlton, Donald, Sea L ake, Wycheproof, and also Culgoa.

We welcome your input on the ideal locations for these distinctive installations.

The posters have a Q-R Code link to a quick online survey, or you can alternatively register via Council’s website or call the Community Recovery Team on 1300 520 520, for a hard copy.

The survey closes on 29 February 2024.

We thank the Australian and Victorian Governments, and the Victorian Department of Families, Fairness and Housing for making this project possible through Community Recovery Programs.

Above: Colourful birdboxes to enhance the beauty of our surroundings.

(Incl. GST)

- Contributed

PAST and present members of the Norm Simpson Memorial Pipe Band recently held an afternoon tea to thank and acknowledge the many years of service that Band Major, Blair Michael, dedicated to the band.

Blair has been a member of the band for approximately 55 years.

Pictured left: Blair Michael acknowledged for his commitment as a member of the band for 55 years.

New exhibition ‘Images from Moonambel’ at Raillery Hub A collection of the work of Russell Drever will be exhibited at the art gallery at the St. Arnaud Railway Station on Fridays through to Sundays between 11am and 4pm.

Russell has lived in Moonambel since 2000 and his abstract work reflects his love of the harsh natural beauty of this valley.

Russell was born in Melbourne in 1944 and attended the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology from 1963 to 1965 where he worked and was influenced by the ideas and the professional approach to art of George Baldessin.

After exhibiting at the Museum of Modern Art Melbourne in the group show ‘Young Minds’ in 1963 and ‘New Generation’ in 1965 Russell left for London where he worked until 1968.

The major influences on him during this period were the paintings of the New York School especially the work of Pollock and Andy Warhol, Russell’s time in London and the Continent broadened his

love of working with rich colour and at his exhibition in Galerie Cannibal Pierce in Paris in 1989 his work was described as being from a master colourist.

Russell’s work has been shown in many group exhibitions.

Between 1971 and 2023 he has had 12 solo exhibitions.

He has works in permanent collections in the John and Sunday Reed collections, National Bank collection and private collections.

Russell says that he is sometimes asked ‘why abstractions’.

“I intend no message, but would prefer the colour and form to act directly upon the viewer’s emotions.

“My art work is a spiritual journey, a continual journey of exploration of ‘distant interiors’”.

Above: Russell Drever artist from Moonambel.

Editorial How far should local government stray from Roads, Rates and Rubbish?

IT is no big deal to change Australia Day from 26th January to some other date, as it is not that long ago that Australia Day was held on other dates. We forget that Australia is so young (from white man’s perspective) that it is not so entrenched as to make it indelible. The day marks the anniversary of the day Britain officially colonised Australia in 1788, the arrival of the First Fleet, but it was not until 1818 that Government employees were given a holiday on that day. Initially called Foundation Day, the fact that it was not until 1838 that the day became Australia Day, and it took nearly one hundred years for all states to declare the day Australia Day and not until 1994, only thirty years ago, that the entire country enjoyed a public holiday on this day.

Grants making local roads safer ELEVEN more local councils will receive State Government funding to improve road safety infrastructure as part of the most recent round of the Safer Local Roads and Streets Program.

The $210 million program is working with all Victorian councils to deliver upgrades on the highest risk local roads, intersections, and precincts by 2027 – with allocations of up to $2 million issued for priority road safety projects.

Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne has announced the counHowever, the tide is shifting away from Australia cils selected for the Day on 26th January and for the ‘celebration’ in 2024 second round of there were a total of 80 local councils that dumped the engagement are East traditional citizenship ceremonies.

Gippsland, GannaActivists have been calling for a changing of the warra, Greater Geelong, date because for too many Aboriginals it represents Greater Shepparton, white oppression, and label the occasion 'Invasion Day’ Loddon, Mansfield, although the argument could also be made that changMildura, Moorabool, ing the date would be a symbolic move that would have Stonnington, Swan Hill little tangible impact on the lives of Indigenous and Wyndham.

Australians.

Ms Horne said that Many media outlets have run surveys on numbers last year was a devasthat want the date changed and those that do not and tating year on Victorian the mantra ‘roads, rates and rubbish’ has been raised and national roads and as the purpose of local governments. But in recent we need to do everyyears, many of Victoria’s 79 councils have been advothing we can to drive cating on issues that are somewhat removed from the down road trauma. core business of councils.

“We’re working Many ratepayers and residents have welcomed this alongside Qld councils to advocacy with open arms, happy that their elected repimportant road A deliver4215 resentatives are standing up for their communities and safety infrastructure on speaking up on issues, especially those that their state local roads today, so our 1 800 652 284 and federal counterparts may shy away from. communities are safer However, others disagree, calling it a waste ofF into the future.” money and resources that could be better spent on The State GovernE much-needed services, such as libraries, maternal and ment’s Safe Local child health, and support for local small businesses.

Roads and Streets One media outlet held a survey and as a result Program will be called for councils to get back to basics and ‘ditch the delivered over seven woke agenda’. A more recent poll conducted by 7News rounds, with all said the results indicated a high level of dissatisfacVictorian councils tion from residents and 92% wanted no political party engaging with the alignment from councilors and further, that councils program by 2025. should stick to ‘roads, rates and rubbish’ rather than It will deliver safer get involved in national issues. infrastructure upgrades At the last meeting of the Northern Grampians for communities includShire Council a petition was presented and has been Whillier ingTed raised crossings, put ‘on the table’ until the next meeting. The petition intersection upgrades, C 10122 was to ‘Leave Australia Day alone’ and Cr Kevin Erwin speed cushions, Q Peta Mandrakassafer stated clearly at that meeting that our Australia Day speeds, roundabouts, ceremonies around the shire had been extremely sucC and other vital safety cessful, hence hinting that he personally agreed with improvements. the sentiment of the petition.

The first 11 local A word of caution here. There are a couple of points: governments began firstly, would it not be a good idea to canvass the ideas engaging with the of the community. [There’s that ‘community engageprogram in September ment’ issue again.] To our knowledge no attempt from 2023, and have the Shire has been made to the people to engage with worked closely with them on this issue of should we actually change the the Department of date or simply put forward the views of residents.

Transport and PlanThe second issue relates to the actual petition. The ning and Transport “Stawell Times” in their reporting on the council meetAccident Commission ing stated that the petition was received ‘by the to plan and deliver community’. But we are not so sure as there were 4,900 safety upgrades. signatures which is a surprisingly high number for a The Safe L ocal shire of only approximately double that figure. If you Roads and Streets scan other councils you will find that they are receivProgram is boosting ing ‘very similar’ petitions and making decisions on safety and support those petitions. We at North Central News say we are the Victorian suspicious that this survey is not one of Northern Government’s 2030 Grampians residents but of a much wider group, Road Safety Strategy making it even more important that residents of this targets to halve road shire be canvassed. deaths, reduce serious Let the residents of Northern Grampians have their injury and ultimately say on this issue, but let’s not be driven by a campaign achieve zero trauma by outside of our borders.

2050.

Page 2 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 14th 2024.

St. Arnaud 60 Years Ago: February 1964

by Heather Pritchard

Deaths Mrs Margaret McNeill age 79.

Albert Tucker age 74.

Mrs Ruby Jackson age 76.

100th D Anniversary The St. Arnaud ‘Mercury’ publishes a supplement to the paper to commemorate 100 years in print.

Boys go missing

St. Arnaud, Charlton & surrounding districts

N.C.N. INFORMATION

Two ten-year- old boys, Colin Rogers and his friend from Kerang, were left in the bush near woodcutter Colin Wall by their father.

On his return the boys had disappeared and the police organised a search party, which after several hours was called off as the boys had been home nearly all afternoon.

Qld 4215

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

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

North Central News is published weekly by Peter Marland, 3279 Charlton/St. Arnaud Road, Slaty Creek for 1 800A.C.N. 652 284 NCNews Pty. Ltd., 18 Napier Street, St. Arnaud.

F 146 461 903. Printed by Western District Newspaper P/L, Camperdown Vic. RegisteredE by Australia Post Publication No. VAC 4217 - Recommended and maximum selling price only.

The North Central News is 100% locally owned, independent newspaper, established in 1864. With an ABC audited circulation of 1,650 copies, and an estimated readership of over 4,250 throughout the Northern Grampians and Buloke Shires.

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DISCLAIMER The views and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those held by the publisher or editor. The publisher and staff accept no liability for injury or losses which may occur as a result of information presented in this publication. © Copyright 2023

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ACROSS 3 Facts given 8 Lace hole 9 Constraint 11 Waterlily 12 Cricket team 15 Remaining 17 Painstaking 18 Covers 20 Sorrowful 21 Raised platform 23 Restrict 25 Paces 26 Well known 28 Sporting item 29 Wicked giant 30 Short, light opera 33 Middle East port 35 Best quality 36 Artificial silk 37 Surgical instrument 38 Fixed allowance 39 Facial features

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See this week’s solution on page 4.

DOWN 1 Gave way 2 Insurgent 3 Representative 4 Made up for 5 Mature persons 6 Trace 7 Cricket trophy 10 Employ 13 Part of a coat 14 Called on 16 Knock out (coll) 19 Storehouses 22 Wives of former Russian rulers 24 Deposit left by glacier 27 Give to charity 28 Earlier 29 Gems 31 Lukewarm 32 Muscular weakness 34 Before (poet)

Parliamentary Apology THE Premier of Victoria Jacinta Allan has formally apologised to Victorians who experienced historical abuse and neglect as children in institutional care.

Above: (left to right) Back Row: Alistair Grahame, George Coloe, Arlo Foye, Arlo Wright, Gianna Sierra, Phoenix, Hugh Green, Loki Teggatz. Front Row: Billy Dean, Louella Coloe, Dominic David, Harlow Newton, Claudia Reid, Ferris, Indiana Gigg and Ryan Thursby.

More new students from our primary schools St. Arnaud Primary School St Arnaud Primary School’s littlest learners have made a great start to their first year of school.

On Tuesday 30th January, 16 new Prep students entered

“To each and every child who was abused, neglected or mistreated – and on behalf of this Parliament, and every Parliament before it – we say sorry,” said Ms Allan.

Before 1990, more than 90,000 children were placed in institutional care in Victoria.

Many children experienced harm at the hands of those trusted to protect them. Some now carry trauma and grief with them as adults, at times leading to poverty or homelessness.

The new Victorian Care Leavers Redress Scheme is under development and will be co -designed with Victorians who grew up in institutional care.

The scheme will build on support available through the National Redress Scheme set up after the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.

Until the scheme begins, the Victorian Government is providing Advanced Redress payments of $10,000 to people who were physically, psychologically or emotionally abused or neglected as children in institutional care in Victoria before 1990, and who are now critically or terminally ill.

Applications for Advanced Redress payments can be made at services.dffh.vic.gov.au/ advance-redress-pay ments.

their new classroom with bright, smiling faces and an eagerness to learn.

The students will be guided through their first year of school by their teacher Mrs Kirri Ezard with support from Education Support Staff members Alana Patton and Georgia Taylor.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 14th 2024 - Page 3

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A Picnic to Welcome new students at Primary School 9

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Auspac Media

ON Friday families from St Arnaud Primary School e n j oye d a l ove l y ‘Welcome Picnic’ on the schools front grass.

Above: Chad Polkinghorne with his parents Jennae (left) and Dale (right).

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ACROSS DO Created: Ted Whillier Above: Luke and Elyza.

3 Facts given 1 Gave w Creator no: 10122 8 Lace hole Insurge Left: Alistair Grahame (right) 2 pictured Qxpress: Peta Mandrakas 3 Repres with 9hisConstraint parents Samuel and Kristel.

Checked: Rosemary J 11 Waterlily 4 Made u 12 Cricket team 5 Mature 15 Remaining 6 Trace 17 Painstaking 7 Cricket 18 Covers 10 Employ 20 Sorrowful 13 Part of ‘Ballinasloe’ Gooroc 193, with the21 most runs platform [dec] W B14house, Raised Called o celebrated their silver for St. Arnaud

by T Queens Avenue, ten- o 23 Restrict 16 Knock wedding anniversary – Marchment25 and G H anted to Mr O’Connell Paces 19 Storeho Welland knownof the Bank of 22NWives they were married at St Edwards 1726each S W. o to Editor: 28 Sporting Patrick’sNote Church, St. for Donald P item Mr R EadieRussian Jnr, Created in the QUARK 24- ½ Deposit Arnaud on 8-2-1899, Westerland 29 63 Wicked and D giant building block acre operato Convent glacier VER.4.03Wells 22. 30 Short, light next bride XPRESS. being Miss in 33 Middle East port 27 Items not needed for Elizabeth Goode of Beaconsfield St.Give to Clearing 35 Best quality 28 Earlier publication can be Sutherland.

Mr W Jardine, 36 Artificial silk 29 Gems erased as each is inSales a building block acre 37 Surgical instrument 31– ½ Lukewa Deaths separate text box. on Navarre Rd, fenced 38 Fixed allowance 32 Muscul Mr E Mouser holds Mrs Catherine Mary with pickets on sides 39 Facial features 34 3Before sale at Logan.

St. Arnaud 100 Years Ago: 8th – 14th February 1924

by Heather Pritchard

Fined for ‘Fishing’?

Arthur Chandler and William Kirk of Yawong were fined £7-10-0 each for using explosives to catch fish.

Nathaniel White who was visiting his sister at the Yawong Post Office, 150 yards from the Coonooer Weir heard the explosion so he and H Houser went to the weir and saw the men with fish but no rods.

They gave evidence in court, as did Ernest Lambert who was at the weir and saw Chandler with two plugs of gelignite on three fuses.

This is the first prosecution of this kind, as the use of gelignite had been common in the past.

Farewells

Phone: 0400 377 278

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The Features People

The lunch was enjoyed by many families who enjoyed catching up under the schools palm trees.

The Welcome Picnic has been a long standing tradition at St Arnaud Primar y School.

Students enjoyed a delicious chocolate milkshake and parents were treated to a coffee from Ella.

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Mr and Mrs George Templeman were given a farewell evening at the Christ Church Parish Hall, where Mrs Templeman was given a

case of stainless steel cutlery by the Girls Friendly Society and her husband was given a box of cigars for his work in aid of the Chancel Fund.

The Thain family of Carapooee were given a farewell prior to their moving to Garden Vale near Melbourne.

Early pioneers, William and Ann Thorn settled at Peters Diggings where they conducted a hotel and store and when William died in 1884, Ann closed the hotel and devoted her time to the farm managed by her sons James and John.

When John died age 36 years in 1911, the eldest son William gave up teaching and became one of the ‘Thain Bros’ firm.

William was a councillor for ten years including president of the Kara Kara Shire on two occasions and served on many committees in St. Arnaud.

The farm will be continued on under a manager.

Accident

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When Mr T Benson of Carapooee was thrown and trampled on by a restive horse, his leg was badly cut and needed stitches.

Kitchen Tea Miss Emily Smith, who is a member of the choir, was given a kitchen tea at the Christ Church Parish Hall prior to her marriage to Mr James Walker of Gowar East.

A gift evening for Miss Rita Perry was held at Sister Bartlett’s residence in Alma St, prior to her marriage to Mr Tom Hamilton.

Cameron died age 37, Mr A J Watts near leaving her husband, Lexel Creek.

Andrew and their 5Mr Joseph Allen at year-old son.

Kooreh Catherine was a daughter of William Property Ross of Talbot and had Sales lived at Avon Plains for five years.

As she is leaving Former licensee of town Miss S Breene the North Western sells 6-room W B Hotel, David Mitchell house, garage, sheds, died age 64 at his home and good garden, on ¼ in Malvern, leaving Solution toathisacre puzzle cornershould Canterbury widownot and threeon the and Inkerman Sts. appear same page daughters.

Estate James Oxley Frederick Robert Harrison of Navarre died age 48 at St. Arnaud from blood poisoning, after injuring his leg while loading wood.

Fred, who was buried at St. Arnaud, leaves a widow, Nellie and three children.

His parents are Mr and Mrs R Harrison formerly of St. Arnaud and he has one sister and four brothers.

WARNING !!!

Note to Editor:

Solution No. 10122 C R D A T A V A E Y E L E T D U R E S S D B L O T U S S H E L E V E N L E F T E D I L I G E N T L I D S N S A D S T A G E L I M I T S T E P S N O T E D B A T O O G R E O P E R E T T A P A D E N F I N E S T A I R A Y O N P O L A N C E T R A T I O N S E E Y E S D Y

Hospital Sunday The Donald Band collected £62 at Litchfield and the St. Arnaud and District Band raised £20-15-0 at Logan for the St. Arnaud Hospital.

St. Arnaud has a new band member, Mr P F Cronin, a solo cornet player for 8 years with the Ararat Band, who has recently started work as a coach-smith for R S Reade’s Carriage Works.

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Page 4 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 14th 2024.

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Charlton 100 Years Ago: 9th – 13th February 1924 Glenloth The new course of the Glenloth Race Club, at Mr Gibbs’ paddock (the use of which is a free gift by him to the

Club) marks a decided advance.

The new location provides a capital galloping course and it is situated right in the township.

Wychitella On the farm of Mr W. Kelly a successful demonstration was given of a 15-30 McCormick-Deering

tractor, drawing a 12ft header.

The crop was an average of 10 bags per acre, and 28 bags per hour were taken off by the combination.

On the Kitty

Above: McCormick-Deering_15-30_1923.

Page 6 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 14th 2024.

The correct results of the most interesting games to date in the Bowling Club’s President’s trophy are as follows:- W. Wylie defeated C. Procter by 1; F. Gilmore defeated C. E. Williams by 1; Rev. W. G. Fitzgerald defeated J. Peverill by 2; W. A. McGuffie defeated W. J. Bateman by 1; Rev. R. Bruce McConchie defeated F. Gilmore by 22; W. A. McGuffie defeated N. McHutchinson by 12.

Croquet Contest The ladies of the Charlton Club paid a visit to Wycheproof, there to meet their sisters-in-sport of that town.

Wycheproof started as a Croquet Club this season. Under the circumstances they did well, although Charlton won by 7 points.

Wycheproof have a beautiful croquet lawn, covered with couch grass – a regular billiard table of a green, better grassed than the bowling sward, and divided into two.

The Wycheproof ladies proved hospitable hostesses indeed, entertaining not only their opponents but also the Charlton and

Wycheproof bowlers to a dainty afternoon tea.

Charlton players were: Messrs Dew, Procter, Reed, Secombe, Raynor, Wood, Morris and Luth.

Holiday Mr L. A. Wilkinson, while on holiday, covered about 1000 miles in his Peugeot car, visiting Hamilton, Port Fairy, Colac, Warrnambool, among other places, and finishing up at Daylesford, from whence the run home was made.

Death of Mrs E. A. Dunstan With feelings of the keenest sorrow it will be learned that Mrs Edith Alice Dunstan passed away in Donald.

Born in Charlton, where she spent all her days until she was married, Mrs Dunstan was the only daughter of Mr and Mrs J. H. Peverill, and her charming personality made her a general favorite.

Deceased had been unwell for a week or two, but serious symptoms, necessitating her removal to a private hospital.

From that time she never regained consciousness.

Mrs Dunstan was 24 years of age.

Only a few short months ago – April 11, 1923 – her wedding to Mr Victor Dunstan was celebrated in the Charlton methodist Church; and they afterwards went to reside at Jeffcott South.

For several years she officiated as organist at the Charlton Methodist Church.

A Man of Character Not only in Coonooer Bridge, but throughout a wide district, news of the death of Mr Lewis Postlethwaite, J.P., at the age of 67 years, will occasion the keenest regret.

Born in Lancaster, the late Mr Postlethwaite came to Victoria 55 years ago.

Seven years later, he selected land at Coonooer Bridge, where he resided up to the time of his death.

His marriage with Miss Louisa Bath (by whom he is survived), took place at St Arnaud.

Deceased was a successful farmer and grazier.

by Charlton Golden Grains Museum He showed a keen interest in the welfare of the Methodist Church, and was a trustee.

The members of the family are: Messrs L.M., R.H., R.J. and T.C. Postlethwaite, and Miss Gladys Postlethwaite.

Two sons, Claude Bath and Arthur Elrick, fell in battle during the war.

Parting Gifts Fraternal feeling was the keynote of the gathering at the East Charlton Hotel when officers and members of the Brass Band, and members of the All Star Comedy Company, met to say farewell to Mr G. James, Mrs M. James and Miss Mabel James.

To Mr G. Babidge fell the pleasing duty of making the presentation of a handsome blackwood tray, with silver ornamental railing.

Mr I. Richards, mentioned that he had resided at the East Charlton Hotel ever since Mr and Mrs James had taken it over.

To Miss James Mr C. E. Williams presented a handsome jewel case.

At the weekend the boarders of the East Charlton Hotel expressed their keen appreciation and regret at saying au revoir.

Mr J. D. Paterson, on behalf of the boarders, presented Mrs James with a beautiful tall silver vase, and Miss James a fine bedroom clock.

Anglican Church Sunday School prizes were distributed by the Rev. C. D. Crigan.

Boys’ First Intermediate Class Robert Arundell 1, Leslie Harris 2, Charlie Raynor 3. Infant Class - Mirian Day 1, Douglas Arundell 2, Florence Day 3. Girls’ First Intermediate - Rose Arundell 1, Margaret Giles 2, Amy Bertoli 3.

Second Intermediate, Girls and Boys - Edna Arundell 1, Ida Johnson 2, Albert Giles 3. Senior Class, Girls and Boys Everett Arundell 1, Jack Mills 2, Alice Arundell 3.

Second Intermediate Boys - Eric Roland 1, Len Rowland 2, Clem Day 3.

The 10/- prize donated by Mr A. Johnson, was not awarded on this occasion, as the standard of marks was not reached.

(Information from East Charlton Tribune)

Above: Charlton Anglican Church.

In The Paddock Farmers urged to monitor damp hay CFA is urging farmers to ramp up their hay maintenance for the remainder of the season, following a surge in haystack fires, with CFA responding to more than 50 since November.

Igniting predominantly in the western parts of the state across the Wimmera and Loddon Mallee, CFA has responded to 29 in the North West Region and 12 in West Region.

The rise calls for the agriculture sector to monitor the moisture and temperature of their hay more regularly, to store in separate stacks and in sheds away from farming equipment and structures.

A recent haystack fire of over 1,000 hay bales in Arapiles on a total fire ban day in the Wimmera and the Mallee serves as a timely reminder for the agriculture sector to ensure they are implementing the appropriate management tools to prevent fire risk.

CFA District 17 Commander Lindsay Barry said spontaneous combustion is the leading cause of haystack fires in Victoria and just one damp bale is enough to ignite a whole stack.

“We are currently in the storage phase of hay season, and there are some contributing

factors that lead to ignition,” Lindsay said.

“Unfortunately, at the beginning of the season, some bales weren’t produced to industry standard, and were stored away with too much moisture.

“Green or damp hay is susceptible to overheating, so those two in combination will make a fire.”

Lindsay said due to the significant rain we have received during summer, haystacks that were neither placed inside a shed nor covered with a tarp have been considerably exposed.

“The hay has been pressed for so long, and because of the summer we’ve had, the majority of fires are where hay has been stored outside and exposed to the elements.’ Lindsay said.

“Water and hay don’t really mix, especially when they stack together. This creates organic decomposition which produces heat, and you end up with a hay fire due to spontaneous ignition.”

Having experienced something similar this time three years ago, Lindsay recalls farms

received over 100mm of rain in one storm hitting their haystacks, and a trail of fires as a result.

“For farmers who own hay, or who manage haystacks, we need them to be more vigilant and ensure they’re doing regular temperature checks,” Lindsay said.

“If they are warm, put measures in place

to break down and separate the stacks and use machinery to put in strategic breaks if you can.

“Because of recent weather, we can only implement maintenance and management now.”

More information on how to prevent haystack fires can be found on CFA’s website.

Above: Haystack fire in Arapiles on Sunday 4th February. PHOTO: D17 Commander Lindsay Barry.

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Ben Healy:

0438 582 377 NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 14th 2024 - Page 7

In The Paddock Burn-off permits issued for farmers CFA is preparing to issue a small number of Schedule 13 planned burn permits to farmers around Ballarat, Ararat and surrounds to help with farming practices in broadacre farming.

This will be undertaken on a risk-based approach where these permits will be issued with several set conditions that landowners need to comply with when undertaking the burning activity.

District 15 Assistant Chief Fire Officer Lachlan Redman said landowners would be the ones predominately using these permits and conducting private-burn offs.

He said this does not include burning off piles of trees and branches, which sit within a different schedule.

“Private burn-offs are part of vital farming practices where burning of crop stubble is often needed to kill off weeds and reduce pests,” ACFO Redman said.

“Where we see a change in weather con-

ditions, wind and temperature, which in turn increase the fire risk, the issuing of these Schedule 13 permits will be withdrawn and any current permits that are issued may be revoked.

“We’re able to support this at the moment due to the unseasonable weather conditions that have allowed this to occur earlier than expected.

“Please be advised we are still in the Fire Danger Period and no burning off is to occur unless people have received a permit.

“You may see a large amount of smoke in areas where these activities may take place, and as part of the permit conditions, farmers must notify Triple Zero Victoria and the local fire brigade captain prior to lighting the burn.”

Burn offs must always have someone in attendance and current and forecasted weather conditions need to be monitored and within the prescriptions for this burn to still continue.

A condition of the permit is that farmers must notify their neighbours and others nearby who may be sensitive to smoke so they can take necessary precautions.

Landholders are reminded to remain vigilant the day after the activity has been conducted. Inspections on site will occur periodically during the burns.

You can apply for Schedule 13 permits via the fire permits website, firepermits. vic.gov.au, which includes a notification to Triple Zero Victoria.

FOR SALE Week ending Wednesday 7 February 2024

— By Glendon Hancock

The Australian wool market has continued its gradual decline, recording another overall decrease for the fourth consecutive series, although positive signs were shown late in the selling pattern.

GREENS CREEK Cropping/Grazing - 1303 Acres For Sale By Expressions Of Interest Closing 4pm Wednesday 6th March Watta Wella Road, Greens Creek A rare opportunity to secure an extremely well presented and well farmed cropping or grazing property comprising 1303 AC or 527 HA (approx), considered 95% arable and has benefited from conservative inputs and farming practices.

Well fenced into 11 paddocks with a central all weather gravel access road to all paddocks making accessibility and stock movement an easy task, featuring scattered gums and rising undulation providing stock protection. The gently rising country has a shallow loam soil profile with heavier loam creek flats fronting the 7-mile creek and is well suited to cereal cropping, hay/fodder production and sheep grazing.

Improvements include a 4-bay machinery shed with 2 bay lockable storage shed with double sliding doors, 24 x 18 x 6m Hay Shed (750 big square capacity) 50m3 Silo, semi-permanent Clipex sheep yards with loading ramp and crutching shed.

The fencing is described as excellent, mostly 7-line

cyclone and the property is well watered by the seasonal creek and 12 dams.

Located in a prominent cropping and grazing region only 16kms from Stawell and accessible from both Watta Wella Rd & Reynolds Rd, this is a rare opportunity to secure a well presented and productive farm with a solid cropping and pasture history. Inspections highly recommended.

Immediate access will be available to the successful QR Code ID: purchaser for farming/cropping preparations

The sale did increase in size from the previous week, but not by the forecast amount.

After 8.1% of the offering was withdrawn prior to sale there was a total of 38,811 bales available to the trade, 5,912 more than last week.

Buyer demand was still strong but in a similar pattern to the previous series, the prices on offer were again below those available in the previous series.

Wool possessing favourable additional measurement results, particularly those with low CVH readings (a measurement of how even in length the wool is) held up best in the softer market.

The movements in individual Micron Price Guides (MPGs) for merino fleece across the country ranged

National Offering Centre North South West Total

Elders Real Estate Ararat Michael Fratin Phone: 0409 184 572

Page 8 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 14th 2024.

between +1 and -34 cents.

The skirtings tracked the fleece, while the Crossbred and Oddment sectors again defied the overall trend recording small increases.

The AWEX Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) lost 8 cents, closing the week at 1,163 cents.

The EMI has now not recorded a positive movement in eleven consecutive selling days.

This run further surpasses the eight sales that the EMI dropped in May 2023, although the losses sustained this time around have not been as severe.

Over the previous eleven selling days the EMI has lost a total of 57 cents.

Over the eight consecutive negative selling days in 2023 the EMI dropped by 103 cents.

Week 32 32 32

Days 6, 7 Feb. 6, 7 Feb. 6, 7 Feb.

Offering 10,760 20,094 7,957 38,811

Future Offerings Week

33

13, 14, 15, Feb.43,624

Source - AWEX

The last time the EMI has had a longer run without a positive result was back between August and October 2022, when the EMI fell for twelve consecutive selling days.

Next week the quantity is expected to rise.

There are currently 43,624 bales rostered for sale nationally, Melbourne requiring three selling days to accommodate the offering.

Melbourne 1137M -7 16.5 1892 -23 17 1785 -29 17.5 1700 -15 18 1602 -6 18.5 1485 -18 19 1404 -22 19.5 1354 -7 20 1326 --5 21 1319 +2 22 1298n 23 24 25 732n 26 552 +6 28 360 -2 30 335 +3 32 307n +4 MC 726n +4 Ind.

In The Paddock Hidden wind turbine decommissioning costs a risk for farmers

LISTINGS WANTED Residential, Rural, Commercial & Leasing See your local

FARMERS enticed by the financial benefits of hosting wind turbines on their property may be lumped with the cost of decommissioning the infrastructure at the end of its lifespan, Member for Mallee Anne Webster has warned, echoing the Australian Energy Infrastructure Commissioner’s previous alert that wind turbine earnings could be outweighed by the removal costs.

While total fees earned for hosting a wind turbine for 25 years could yield farmers $250,000$750,000, figures from the Australian Energy Infrastructure Commissioner indicate decommissioning costs of up to $600,000 or more per turbine.

“Always read the fine print.

“If the project owner defaults, farmers could be left paying to decommission the turbine,” Dr Webster said.

“The landholder generally doesn’t own the project’s assets so they cannot simply sell them.

“Even if farmers have a decommissioning arrangement with the project owner, these projects can change hands many

times over its lifespan, jeopardising any agreement made, and risking the landowner responsible for the $600,000 per wind turbine.”

Dr Webster said farmers need to take decommissioning costs and risks into account before deciding to host turbines, which could also have ramifications for their farmland and their neighbours.

“Some renewable energy project developers have been quick to promote projects to communities without securing social licence, or responding to genuine concerns people have,” Dr Webster said, pointing to damning figures released on the weekend.

Dr Webster described the poor answers from project

Providing shelter to help prevent heat stress in livestock AS an owner or manager of livestock it’s crucial to protect your animals from harsh weather conditions.

Providing access to shelter can improve animal welfare by reducing the risk of heat stress and production losses as the animal doesn’t have to actively use energy to lower its body temperature.

Agriculture Victoria Animal Health Officer Flick Searle said behavioural signs of

heat stress in livestock can include increased respiration rate, panting, increased salivation, listlessness, and lethargy.

For more information, please visit our website Caring for animals during extreme heat | Livestock health and welfare | Livestock and animals | Agriculture Victoria.

ELDERS WYCHEPROOF

Special Store Sheep Sale Friday 23rd February at 12.30pm

Quality 1st BL/Mer X and Merino Sheep Further entries invited. www.eldersrural.com.au/livestock Sam Crow, 0455 506 622 Shane McLoughlan 0418 844 533 Bailey Baxter 0429 508 204 or your local Elders agent

proponents as ‘bulldust’ in parliament yesterday afternoon, and National Party L eader David Littleproud has today called on a moratorium on renewable project rollout in regional Australia due to poor consultation and community impacts.

“Labor has emboldened developers to push ahead with a reckless rush to renewables despite the cost to regional communities that produce our nation’s food and fibre.”

Dr Webster welcomed Mallee residents who drove eight hours to Canberra yesterday, organising a meeting

with Energy Minister Chris Bowen and other parliamentarians.

The Member for Mallee also addressed those residents and hundreds of others at the ‘reckless renewables’ rally in Canberra on Tuesday.

Farmers from across Eastern Australia had travelled to Canberra to protest the Federal Government railroading their communities with renewable energy infrastructure and running roughshod over environmental concerns and farming productivity.

“Labor is asking regional Australia and agriculture to bear the burden of its reckless race to 82 per cent renewables by 2030, without any care or understanding about its impacts,” Dr Webster said.

“Whether it be the VNI West project or any other, regional

communities are not a dumping ground for bad policy designed to sandbag Labor metropolitan seats from Green threats.

“Farmers have had enough.”

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

LAND AUCTION (Unless sold prior)

NAVARRE – BOLANGUM INN ROAD ACCT: T HOPE

107.73 HA or 266.20 acres approx.

Thursday 7th March, 2024 at 11 am at Navarre Reserve Clubrooms • Undulating Grazing/cropping country just 2kms outside Navarre • Elevated pretty spot with great views of the Grampians

Bolangum Inn Rd

• Grey loam to red rising soil with natural grasses • 3 dams, 2 paddocks with bitumen & gravel access

Parry Access Rd

10% deposit on signing, balance in 30/60 days or earlier by agreement

Stawell Navarre Rd

Property ID: nutrien.harcourts.net/L26020342 Call agent for an inspection or more details

Damian Drum - Mobile: 0428 952 284 damian@nutriensta.com.au

or Sharlene Bertalli - Mobile: 0447 952 320 sharlene@nutriensta.com.au 13-19 Napier Street, ST. ARNAUD VIC. 3478 Office: 03 5495 1722 NUTRIEN ST. ARNAUD DOES NOT WARRANT THE ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS OF THE INFORMATION CONTAINED ABOVE

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 14th 2024 - Page 9

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS

EMPLOYMENT CROPPING MANAGER Family owned broad-acre cropping and grazing property (3,000 hectares) South of Donald in the Eastern Wimmera seeks experienced person to manage and execute annual cropping program: cereals, legumes and canola rotation typical of the region.

Full time position reporting to owners.

Motivated self-starter essential. To work in with livestock manager (managing 2,500 merino ewes).

Attractive salary commensurate with experience.

Housing by arrangement as needed.

Enquiries to

Job Opportunities Campus Negotiable • Allied Health Assistant • Allied Health Assistant Trainee • Registered Undergraduate Student of Nursing (RUSON) Birchip • District Nurse - Registered Nurse • Junior Food and Domestic Service Assistant Charlton • Food and Domestic Service Assistant • District Nurse - Registered Nurse • Resident Lifestyle Coordinator Donald • Nurse Unit Manager • Enrolled Nurse St Arnaud • Associate Nurse Unit Manager • Registered Nurse • Food and Domestic Service Assistant Further information available at: https://ewhs.org.au/careers

Graeme Male, Elders, Saint Arnaud: 0427 506 193

PUBLIC NOTICE

MEETINGS

Have you been to Joan Supple’s

St. Arnaud Golf Club

CHARLTON FLORIST & FASHION For all your Valentine’s Flowers Today!

9 High St., Charlton.

MEETINGS

AGM Wednesday, 28th February 7.30pm at the Country Club.

All Welcome.

AGM & Elections

FOR SALE

available at North Central News and Apex Service Station St. Arnaud.

Quantity of Some clean, some not.

50c to $1 per brick.

Ph: 0418 502 266.

Check out our range of

Children’s Story Books

We encourage all members to attend.

at

IDEAL GIFT! St. Arnaud Allsorts

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

Charlton Film Festival Project Administrator Full time position in Minyip This new, permanent role will suit an experienced and flexible Administration professional, with previous construction or heavy industry experience.

The work is fast-paced and broad in scope, promising a challenging and rewarding environment.

The position reports to the Project Director.

Key responsibilities • Develop and deliver site administrative processes • Implement and maintain quality document management practices • Manage site access processes, with a particular focus on safety inductions • Facilitate our Minyip ‘front desk’ experience for external and internal visitors About you • Proven track record in creating and maintaining quality administration processes • Resilient and resourceful, can flourish in autonomous setting • Demonstrated high level of professionalism and confidentiality Further information Position Description https://www.astronlimited.com.au/community/ careers-with-astron-limited/ Email karen.shelton@astronlimited.com Send your CV and cover letter to careers@astronlimited.com Applications close 29 Feb 2024

Formed in 2018, Sprayer Centre is a familyowned business, based out of St Arnaud, Victoria, that has continued to grow and support the local North Central & Wimmera agricultural communities. We are constantly evolving within the sprayer industry, offering high-tech solutions for all spraying needs. We are a service centre that predominantly sells & services spraying equipment, Croplands tow behind units, Rogator self-propelled & other brands.

Sprayer Centre has a position for an Administration Assistant available to join our local family run business.

• Casual / Permanent Part Time Position • Minimum 20hrs per week (Flexible around school hours) The successful applicant will handle most of the day-to-day accounts & data entry, liaising with customers via phone, email & in person, inventory management, debtor follow up & general admin duties.

We are looking for someone who can bring an enthusiastic approach & a willing to learn attitude, admin experience is not essential but an advantage.

Experience using Microsoft Outlook/Excel/Word & MYOB an advantage but again not essential, training will be provided.

Renumeration package to be discussed with successful candidate.

If this position interests you or should you like to further discuss please contact us via the methods below. Please forward resume’s via email.

Phone:0436 009 417 Email: info@sprayercentre.net.au

Page 10 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 14th 2024.

Rotary Club of St. Arnaud Traditional Rum & Brandy Fruit Cakes

$20

Tuesday, 20th February 7pm at Coonooer Bridge Hall

TO ADVERTISE PH: 5495 1055

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

Old Red Bricks

Coonooer Bridge CFA

FOR SALE

VEHICLES FOR SALE

Toyota Hilux for sale Registration No.: TYK340 2006 Toyota DC Ute with crew cab and canopy Registered until 8th February 2025 Odometer reading: 268 273 Regularly serviced with service history available In excellent condition RWC

Price $13,500 Russell Steel 0455 133 498

Fri., 16th & Sat., 17th Feb. The Rex Theatre Friday 8.00pm – One Life Saturday 11:00am – Bromley: Light After Dark 1:30pm – Shayda 4:00pm – Scrapper 8:00pm – Red, White & Blue Tickets available from the Charlton Neighbourhood House 0473 759 456 or online at https://events.humanitix.com/ charlton-film-festival-2024.

AT YOUR SERVICE

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

Hayley:

0409 337 276, Luke:

0458 885 266 St. Arnaud Serenity Storage

World Day of Prayer for 2024 THE World Day of Prayer is an ecumenical movement inspired by the motto “Informed Prayer and Prayerful Action”. - Contributed

AT YOUR SERVICE

BIRTH

DEATH

DEATH

IN MEMORIAM

• IRONSTONE

DUNCAN

ELLIS (Cadzow) - Evelyn Mary Devoted wife of Alwyn (dec). Sister-in-law of Merv and Molly (both dec), Much loved Aunty Ev to Lola and Ken (dec), Val and Geoff (dec), Rae and Brian, Tony and Lynne, and families.

ROGERS - Graham Cordell “Mick” 11.11.1933 – 9-2-2024 passed away suddenly, aged 90 yrs, of St. Arnaud.

Dearly loved husband of Anna and loving father of Michael (dec), Graham (dec), Wayne and Leah.

Adored Pop of Ashley, Jessie, Beth; Georgia and Josh.

GONE BUSH

WESCOTT - Robert Leo 30/5/1947 - 11/2/2020 You left us four years ago, we all miss you.

Miss the advice on horses in races.

Wescott Family.

REMOVALS - Maryborough- runs south.

Phone: 0412 726 432.

Solicitor 116 Napier St., St. Arnaud

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

Ph: 5495 2595 Karen@klp.net.au

Monica and Jake welcome the safe arrival of their second son

Thomas Arthur Duncan Born 21st January, 2024 Brother for Paddy, beautiful grandson for Paddy and Cherie, nephew for Larissa, Chantelle, Nadia, cousin for Ruby.

60TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY

POLE - (nee Stephenson)

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

0400 451 432 or 5495 1108

To our dear Brother and Brother-in-law Ken, and Sister-in-law Lyn, and our Uncle and Aunty.

Congratulations and best wishes on your

60th Wedding Anniversary.

May you be blessed with many more.

- Love from all the families.

Congratulations

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

to Dorothy (nee Reid) and John Postlethwaite on their

60th Wedding Anniversary.

They were married on the 15th February 1964 at Coonooer Bridge.

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

110 Napier St., St. Arnaud

Love from your family: Debra, Andrew, Rebecca and Christopher, Darrin, Liz, Isaac, Ethan and Ava, Stuart, Pauline, Kyra, Amaya, Flynn and Shanae. XOXO

FLYNN (Brain) - Shonah Patricia November 5th, 1945 – February 7th, 2024.

A loving Mother of Nick and Cam Fithall, motherin-law to Wendy and Brad. Beloved Nanny to Billy, Isobel, Jack, Isla and Darcy. Dearest sister to Kay (dec) and Rhonda and cherished daughter of the late Clara and Herb.

A life fully lived with family, travel and teaching.

Rest in Peace.

FLYNN (Brain) - Shonah Patricia Loved by son, Nick Fithall, daughter in law, Wendy, and adored and caring nanny to grandchildren Isla and Darcy.

Shonah made a significant contribution to education as a teacher in St Arnaud, Ballarat and New York.

She was a keen traveller, legendary hostess, and her jokes and sense of fun will be greatly missed.

FLYNN (Brain) - Shonah Patricia Dearest Mum to Cam, Mother-in-Law to Brad and forever will be Nanny in America to Billy, Isobel and Jack. At peace now with your beautiful Mum Clara. We wish to give all our love and eternal thanks to the Sisters, staff, carers and other residents who devoted such wonderful care to our Mum and Nanny for the last few years in St. Margaret’s at Nazareth House in Ballarat.

Mum, we wish there was more time. Thankful for what we had and the moments Nick and I were gifted to say goodbye.

We love you.

FLYNN (Brain) - Shonah Patricia 5/11/1945 - 7/02/2024 Loving daughter of Herbert and Clara (dec), loved sister of Kay (dec), and treasured sister to Rhonda and sister-in-law of Ron, loving aunt of Simone and Sally.

A cheery smile, a heart of gold, one of the best this world could hold.

A loving nature, true and kind, what beautiful memories you leave behind.

Thank you for being a wonderful sister.

Till we meet again.

Rhonda.

May the winds of love blow softly and whisper for you to hear.

That we shall always love you and forever hold you near.

Simone and Sally.

ROGERS - Mick Rest in Peace, Mick.

Our sympathy to Anna and families.

Sincerely Joan and Family

FUNERAL FLYNN A graveside service for Shonah will be held at the St. Arnaud Monumental Cemetery on WEDNESDAY FEB. 14TH at 11.00 am.

KELL FUNERALS ST ARNAUD NFDA

EST: 1860

5495 1043 ROGERS A service to celebrate the life of Mick Rogers will be held at the KELL CHAPEL (crn Napier & Mill Sts) St. Arnaud on MONDAY 19th Feb. 2024, at 11.00am followed by a burial at St. Arnaud Lawn Cemetery.

KELL FUNERALS ST ARNAUD NFDA

EST: 1860

5495 1043

IN MEMORIAM KIELY - Amanda Lee 14-2-2015 Very sadly missed.

Loved Dearly.

Remembered Always.

WOOLEY - Joyce 13-2-2022 Two years have passed so quickly, but you are always by my side.

Your loving husband forever, Bob. WORTHINGTON (nee Martin) - Jennifer Lorraine Loving daughter of Rose and Thomas Martin (dec). Loving sis of Kevin, Peter, John and families.

R.I.P. Sis.

We follow the example of Jesus Christ, who prayed from a place of knowledge and care for the world, and who acted from a place of prayer and connection to God. The World Day of Prayer as an international, inter-church organization enables us to hear the thoughts of women from all parts of the world; their hopes, concerns and prayers, and is celebrated in over 170 countries on the first Friday of March each year.

An ecumenical group of Palestinian Christian women have

CHURCH NOTICES

CHURCH NOTICES

ST. ARNAUD UNITING CHURCH Sunday 18th February ST. ARNAUD 9.30am G. Pearse PARISH OFFICE Chris & Rob Batters Pastorial Co-ordinators Enquiries 5495 6223

ANGLICAN PARISH OF ST. ARNAUD

DISTRICT CATHOLIC CHURCHES East Wimmera Parish

Christ Church Old Cathedral Friday 16th February 9.30am Morning Prayer St. Arnaud 9.30am Every Sunday Eucharist Bealiba 8am 2nd/4th Sunday All Welcome Rev. Peter Downes Enquiries phone: Phone: 0412 957 383 ST. ARNAUD CHURCH OF CHRIST Cnr. Queens Ave & Alma St. Hearing the good news of Jesus Thurs. 15th February 10.30 a.m. Faith Group Sun. 18th February 10.00 a.m. Prayer Time 10.30 a.m.: Worship & Communion Speaker: David Tolputt (Ararat) All welcome Enquiries: Brian Eccles Ph: 5495 2267

BIRCHIP

Sunday February 18th 8.30am Mass BOORT

Sunday February 18th 10.30am Live Stream in BANYENA No Mass CHARLTON

Saturday February 17th 7.00pm Mass DONALD

Sunday February 18th 10.30pm Live Stream out to churches without Mass ST. ARNAUD

Sunday February 18th 10.30am Live Stream in WYCHEPROOF

Sunday February 18th 10.30am Live Stream in Parish Coordinator: Noeline Hogan 0476 617 976

prayed and reflected together over the past several years to respond to the invitation to write the 2024 program.

Their theme is “I beg you…bear with one another in love” based on Ephesians 4:1-7.

This program calls us to bear with each other in love, despite all difficulties and oppression.

The Palestinian Christian women who wrote this worship service have invited the world to pray for peace, justice and freedom of religion and freedom of movement.

Their prayers specially call us to pray with women, refugees, persons experiencing homelessness, and all who are sick, dying and grieving.

They also call us to confess to our collective role in causing the climate crisis, and to commit to repairing what we have destroyed.

Finally, they call us, the global church, to be united in treating all with justice and love.

This program was developed entirely in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Taking on the responsibility of being a writer country is always a rigorous journey, but it was particularly difficult given the changed realities of a world suffering under a global pandemic.

We are grateful to our Palestinian Christian sisters for navigating this process with grace and patience.

You are invited to join us in prayer on Friday 1st March 2024 at 10am at the Church of Christ.

For further information and resources plus details of services in your locality, please visit our website: www.worldday ofprayeraustralia.org.

KELL FUNERALS Est 1860

PRE PAID FUNERALS AVAILABLE 24 HOURS

Ph: 5495 1043

136 Napier Street St. Arnaud

NAFD Member

Birthday wishes to: February 14th Aimee Jones Lucy O’Donnell February 15th Tim Goode Damon Prestwood Hayley Watts Leanne Weaver February 16th Kelly Tillig

February 17th Lillian Holt February 18th Cooper Baldock Caitlin Hughes February 19th Luke Torney

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 14th 2024 - Page 11

Enjoy a weekend of film at REX A full weekend of cinema is coming to The Rex starting this Friday night, with a Festival and forensics heading the line-up, so film buffs, movielovers and those looking for something just a little bit different can indulge their passion across three days of on-screen story-telling.

The annual Charlton Film Festival kicks things off at 8pm on Friday night (16th Februar y), with Charlton Arts anticipating a strong response to their selection of movies for 2024.

The arts-orientated organization sees the outreach for the Festival extend across the state, with visitors eager to reconnect with the township as much as looking forward to enjoying the cinematic offerings.

A full day of screenings starts from 11am on Saturday 17th February, with four movies scattered throughout the day and evening.

For more information on movies, times and ticketing see: https://events.humanitix.com/charlton-filmfestival-2024 Regroup, and settle in again on Sunday 18th February as The Rex presents “The Dry” Double Feature Event starting at 11am.

In conjunction with the current release of “The Dry 2 – Force of Nature”, the doubleheader screening brings the original blockbuster back to the big screen with the highly-anticipated sequel following at 2pm.

Given the proximity of filming locations used in “The Dry”

here’s a chance to identify where and who appears in the original, before coming back for the next installment of author, Jane Harper’s compelling story with Eric Bana reprising his role as “Federal Agent, Aaron Falk”.

And don’t forget that just by purchasing a ticket to “Force of Nature: The Dry 2” you automatically go into the draw for a chance to win $5,000.

More details: https://www.rextheatre.org.au/ Remember the Rex opens for Sunday coffee from 10am, so head in a bit earlier, grab a cup of our Bendigo Brewhouse

- Contributed blend and set yourself up for the day!

If you can’t make the Sunday double feature, The Rex will also be screening “Force of Nature” on the following dates: Tuesday 20 February 8pm | Saturday 24 Fe b r u a r y 8 p m | Sunday 25 February 2pm | Tuesday 27 Fe b r u a r y 8pm.

(Bookings are not available for these screenings).

The Dry Double Fe a t u r e E v e n t – Sunday 18th February: Tickets: Double Feature: $20 (General) | $18 (Member) |Single movie – $12 (General) | $10 (Member) Bookings encouraged: https://events. humanitix.com/thedry

Summit calls for Regional-specific new build targets

REGIONAL-SPECIFIC new build targets; bolstered and quarantined regional housing infrastructure funding; and better planning for growth are among the asks of government from the National Regional Housing Summit in Canberra last week.

More than 300 people from across Australia converged on Canberra and contributed online to a solutions-focused discussion on how to ease the challenges before regional communities.

These challenges include a more than 50% increase in regional home prices; average rental vacancies below 1.4%; increasing levels of homelessness; and a lack of diversity of housing types – all in parallel with record regional population growth and job vacancies.

A Discussion Paper, presenting the latest regional housing stock data and featuring stories of communities who’ve successfully taken action to solve their housing issues, provided context to Summit.

RAI CEO Liz Ritchie said the Summit shone a light on the creative and collaborative solutions regional communities were devising to address localised issues.

“When Griffith City Council in New South Wales recognised the local economy was suffering due to a lack of appropriate worker accommodation, it worked in partnership with Argyle Housing to develop new affordable housing in the community.

“Every community

in regional Australia has its own unique challenges when it comes to housing and today has highlighted how critical it is to retire policies that classify ‘regional Australia’ as a singular location and implement bespoke place-based solutions.

The Summit also reiterated the importance of a National Population Plan, to ensure infrastructure planning is in line with the continued strong movement of people to the regions; and highlighted regional Australia’s shortcomings in housing diversity, with a need for more affordable, accessible mediumdensity housing.

Real Estate Institute of Australia (REIA) CEO Anna Neelagama said the Summit found there was a need for regional-specific targets and increased funding to address challenges faced by communities, such as soaring home prices, low rental vacancies, and a lack of housing diversity.

“While there is concern of the growing impact of short-stay accommodations on regional areas, what is truly lacking is supply of smaller one-and-two bedroom homes,” Ms Neelagama said.

“With the surge in population, there is a need for thoughtful consideration and plan-

ning to mitigate potential disruptions to housing markets and the broader community in regional Australia.”

The RAI’s Regionalisation Ambition- a 10 year, 20 goal framework for an Australia where more people live in the regions- aims to see by 2032, regional rental vacancy rates increasing to above 3% and for annual building approvals to keep pace with population growth.

The regional vacancy rate decreased from 1.5% in September 2022 to 1.2% in September 2023 and monthly regional building approvals have been decreasing since August 2021.

Ms Ritchie said unless there was collaborative action by government, industry, business and community on the issues discussed at today’s Summit, realising those goals would be a challenge.

“Housing is a big, wicked issue, and the passion we saw in the room today, indicates there is a coalition of willing players who can work together to make meaningful change here.

“I implore those who were part of this one-ofa-kind event to maintain their dedication and drive to better the lives of regional Australians, by working together on solutions to housing.

“It will only be when we have that collabora-

Page 12 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 14th 2024.

tion that regional Australia’s housing transformation will occur,” Ms Ritchie said.

Summit delegates identified policy, investment, and innovation recommendations including the development of a National Population Plan to inform the development of housing and other infrastructure needed for communities of the medium- to long-term; As well increased funding was required for regional local governments.

Above: Dawn McKay (left) presents gifts to guest speakers Leeanne Nuske, Ann-Maree Anderson and Kerry Heinrich from Grampians Community Health.

Combined Probus Club of St. Arnaud PRESIDENT Glenys opened our February meeting welcoming members and a guest followed by the club song and birthday greetings.

We had a minute’s silence for Bruce Coates a founding member of the club who recently passed away also remembered Beth Curnow and Elvie Perry.

We then got down to the business of the day and all committee reports were presented plus other club discussions we then broke for our cuppa and chat.

After the break Dawn introduced the guest speakers who were from Grampians Community Health, Ann-Marie Anderson the Case Manager plus Kerrie Heinrich and Leeanne Nuske who are carers.

Ann-Marie outlined the different services

available of which there are many including taking clients to health appointments (they coordinate with The Royal Flying Doctor service here in St. Arnaud) help in the home with showering etc and many more.

She then handed over to Kerry and Leonie who then gave us some idea of a carers role.

They already have some clients in St Arnaud and Ann-Marie emphasized that it is VERY important to register with My Age Care and become part of the system as it can take up to 9 months to be assessed.

The three ladies then

- Contributed took questions of which there were many as it was of great interest to us all.

Ann-Marie said if anyone has any other queries in regard to the services they are able to contact her at Grampians Community Services.

So once again we have been made aware of the help that is out there for us.

Dawn then presented our gifts of appreciation and invited the ladies to lunch which they accepted.

President Glenys closed the meeting and we adjourned to the dining room at the club for lunch and the usual ‘get together’.

Cheers until next time.

COVID Updates and Developments Victorian stats There are no figures out this week about the levels of COVID in the Victorian community.

If we look at wastewater estimates, the actual circulation of COVID is somewhere between two and 20 times higher than what’s actually being reported by countries.

Long COVID could be a brain injury

WHO says that the virus is rampant.

Brain fog is one of the most common, persistent complaints in patients with long COVID. It affects as many as 46% of patients who also deal with other cognitive concerns like memory loss and difficulty concentrating.

A new study has found that these symptoms may be the result of a viral-borne brain injury that may cause cognitive and mental health issues that persist for years.

“We’re still in a pandemic.

WHO says ‘rampant COVID’ poses challenges Worldwide, there were more than 11,000 reported deaths from COVID between midDecember 2023 and mid- January 2024, and more than half of those deaths occurred in the U.S. Although the WHO declared an end to the COVID public health emergency in May 2023, the organization has emphasized that the pandemic is not over, it’s just entered an endemic phase, which means that the virus will continue to circulate indefinitely.

Although COVID is not in the news every day, it’s still a global health risk.

“There’s a lot of complacency at the individual level, as well as at the government level,” said a spokesperson for WHO.

Spike in Whooping Cough cases causes concern to experts Whooping cough cases are surging in Australia, particularly in Queensland, where case numbers are four times higher than in recent years.

Experts say the spike may be due to immunedeficiencies after lengthy periods of COVID isolation.

Are increases in eye problems caused by COVID? The world is now used to COVID-19 and while the illness isn't dominating our lives like it used to, it's still with us.

Now doctors are sounding the alarm about a growing number of cases affecting people's eyes.

They are still learning about why and how it happens, as well as how it can affect vision.

Ararat Swim Meet ON Saturday 10th February 2024, 13 swimmers from St. Arnaud competed in the Ararat - Contributed Swim Meet.

Some great results with 28 gold, 15 silver and 7 bronze.

Jesse Amos Men’s 17-29yrs 50m back 2nd, fly 1st, breast 3rd, free 2nd, 100m back 1st, free 2nd and 200m IM 1st.

Belinda Burke Women’s 17-29yrs 50m back 3rd and free 3rd.

L eanne Burke Women’s 30-60yrs 50m back 1st, fly 1st, breast 2nd and free 2nd.

Riley Burke Men’s 17-29yrs 50m breast 2nd.

Declan Kay Boys 13-14yrs 50m breast 3rd, free 5th and 100m free 2nd.

Leo Kay Boys 8&u 50m free 1st.

Spencer Kay Boys 11-12yrs 50m back and free.

Arley Reyne Boys 9-10yrs 50m breast 2nd and free 2nd.

Eliza Scarce Girls 13-14yrs 50m back, breast and free 5th.

Ebony Start Women’s 17-29yrs 50m back 1st, fly 1st, breast 1st, free 1st, 100m free

1st, 100m fly 1st, 100m back 1st, 200m back 1st, 200m IM 1st and 400m free 1st.

Heidi Start Girls 1314yrs 50m back 1st, fly 1st, breast 1st, free 1st, 100m free 1st, 100m fly 1st, 100m back 1st, 200m back 1st, 200m IM 2nd and 400m free 2nd.

Hamish Tannock Boys 13-14yrs 50m back 3rd, breast 2nd, free 2nd and 100m free 1st.

Finn Wilson Boys 11-12 50m back 3rd, fly 1st, breast 2nd, free 3rd, 100m breast 2nd, 100m free 1st.

Mixed 16&u free with Hamish, Declan, Eliza and Heidi 3rd.

Mixed 12&u free with Spencer, Arley, Leo and Finn 5th.

Mixed Open free with Riley, Belinda, Leanne and Jesse 1st.

Mixed 12&u medley with Spencer, Arley, Finn and Leo 4th.

Mixed 16&u medley with Hamish, Eliza, Heidi and Declan 4th.

Mixed Open medley

with Jesse, Riley, Ebony and Leanne 1st.

Above: Declan Kay, Belinda Burke, Jesse Amos, Hamish Tannock, Heidi Start, Ebony Start, Riley Start, Eliza Scare, Finn Wilson, Leanne Burke, Spencer Kay and Leo Kay.

St. Arnaud Swim Meet 2 Next swim meet is back in St. Arnaud for our St. Arnaud Swim Meet 2 on Saturday 17th February 2024 starting at 12pm.

We hope to see many spectators cheering on our swimmers.

Free entry with lots of great raffle prizes.

Torney’s Fighting Fit SAMBO Group are also running a BBQ and selling drinks.

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QUOTE OF THE WEEK Start sisters Ebony (left) and Heidi (above) both had outstanding results for St. Arnaud at the Ararat Swim meet.

Now, I know that there are some Aboriginal people who aren’t happy with Australia Day. For them it remains Invasion Day. I think a better view is the view of Noel Pearson, who has said that Aboriginal people have much to celebrate in this country’s British Heritage.

- Tony Abbott

Licensed Plumbers and Gasfitters Open Wednesday to Sunday Phone: (03) 5497 1464 94 Woods Street, Donald Email: plumbing@hardinghams.com.au

ST. ARNAUD BLINDS We are NOW based in your area 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.

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(03) 5495 1055 NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 14th 2024 - Page 13

Kara Kara topples Nullawil HEAD north to Nullawil and Wycheproof was the call of the day for the two St. Arnaud tennis teams, Kara Kara and St. Arnaud, on a sublime - Contributed sunny Saturday afternoon.

Above: The Best Twilighters Tom Amos (left) and Doug Walker beat the other twilight bowlers to earn free pizzas.

Good time twilight time HEAVENLY shades of night were falling, it was twilight time, and it was another most enjoyable evening for the 26 twilight bowlers last Thursday at the St. Arnaud Bowling club.

The winning pair, after 10 ends in perfect warm conditions, were Tom Amos and Doug Walker 8 shots up, and also winners of Country Kitchen’s free pizzas.

Runners-up, 5 shots up, were Terry McSwain, Paul Micallef and Glenda Bigmore.

- Contributed The bowlers also had a great supper; the left-overs from the All Abilities event staged earlier in the day.

There are two more twilight bowls nights for the season, Thursdays February 15th and 22nd.

Any trip to the north is always a tough assignment and so it was with some trepidation Kara Kara fronted reigning NCLTA Premiers Nullawil.

This time Kara Kara brought its “A” team for the Men’s Doubles and in the end, it proved the difference for the team in toppling the current “top of the ladder” team 101-92 games (8-2 points) to retain third position on the ladder.

The in form contributions by Jake and Sam Male, Luke Jackson, Matt and John Goode and new recruit Jason Rowe proved too much for the Nullawil men, resulting in a decisive 45-14 games win, with Kara Kara winning all sets.

Not unexpectedly, (they usually do!) the formidable Nullawil Ladies combinations returned serve with a similarly commanding win over Kara Kara Ladies to record an equally impressive win 48-9 games.

With K ara K ara trailing by five games entering the Mixed Doubles section victory on the day was up for grabs.

Gradually with stronger partnerships, Kara Kara chipped at the opposition’s lead, then drew away for a morale boosting away win.

Sam, Luke, John and Jason were three set winners.

Further south in the pleasant surroundings of the Wycheproof Lawn Tennis Club, St. Arnaud was to face its nemesis having been beaten by the lower placed Wycheproof earlier in the season.

Histor y, indeed, repeated as Wycheproof garnered another win at the expense of St. Arnaud 101-92 games (6-4 points) As the afternoon warmed up, the highlight was the tie, 40 games apiece, in the Mixed Doubles as a “faltering” (in the heat) Trudie Jackson, with partner Stephen

Rodger, stormed home in a lengthy match for an import set win.

Well done!

Three set winners Peter Scott, Thomas Watts and Stephen Rodger proved a reach too far for Wycheproof in the Men’s Doubles winning comfortably 45-26 games, while the Ladies pairings gave it a good shot but fell short 52-21 games.

All in all, an improvement over the earlier loss to the opposition with the additional points enabling St. Arnaud to retain its fifth place on the ladder.

Next Saturday, Kara

Kara plays Charlton while St. Arnaud faces second placed Donald, both away matches.

The North Central Lawn Tennis Association Ladder, after Round 11, is Nullawil 93 pts, Donald 78 pts, K ara K ara 73 pts, Birchip 60 pts, St Arnaud 46 pts, Wirrim 41 pts, Charlton 34 pts, Wycheproof 15 pts.

This week two Men’s, and one Ladies, teams are competing in the Victorian Country Week Tennis carnival in Albury / Wodonga.

Lets hope for a least one victorious finals team to match last year’s performance!

Local double at Charlton CHARLTON trainers John Tormey and Michael Gadsden both tasted success at their local track on February 5.

Above: Stephen Rodger (St. Arnaud) demonstrates his backhand.

2 6 5 9 7 1 3 8 4 7 8 4 6 3 2 9 5 1 3 1 9 5 8 4 2 6 7 1 5 7 4 2 8 6 9 3 9 4 2 1 6 3 5 7 8 8 3 6 7 9 5 1 4 2 5 9 8 2 1 7 4 3 6 4 2 3 8 5 6 7 1 9 6 7 1 3 4 9 8 2 5

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

Above: Millie Hando (St. Arnaud) executes her backhand.

Above: Jake Male (Kara Kara) thumps a forehand with Wendy Shaw observing.

Page 14 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 14th 2024.

Race 2 on the programme saw the 9yo gelding “Glens of Tekoa” win his 23rd race including 15 for the Tormey stable with the other 8 wins coming from it’s starts in NZ, WA and NSW. A new addition to the Gadsden stable is “Hungry Hogarth” who sat behind the leader in race 5 before utilising the sprint lane at the finish to score easily by 4.5m.

The 5yo was bred by Pudd MacDonald and Samantha Button from a half sister to Michael Gadsden’s handy pacer “Bizzness Class.”

The Shane Sanderson trained 8yo “Sahara Tiger” showed his liking for the Mildura track by taking his tally of wins at that venue to 12 at Tuesday’s meeting.

For winning driver Ryan Sanderson it was the first leg of a winning double as he went on to win the last race on the card for local trainer Andrew Vozlic.

A treble for Ellen Tormey at Swan Hill on Sunday included a very

Inside running

by Archie

easy win by “Katanga Express” a first starter for John Tormey.

The 3yo by “Sweet Lou” won by 27.4m with a mile rate of 1.57.6 and gave Ellen her sixth winner for the week.

Michael Gadsden took two pacers to Swan Hill and quinellaed the third race with “Fragmental” beating Monday’s winner “Hungry Hogarth”.

“Hungry Hogarth” was named by it’s breeder Pudd MacDonald after a mate of his the former talented Sunraysia sportsman Michael Hogarth who now has the challenges of living with Motor Neuron Disease (MND).

This Saturday night it is the Terang Cup meeting and on Sunday the Gunbower Club celebrate their Centenary, 100 years of trotting on the Murray.

Wimmera Mallee Cricket results round 12

Above: Look at that! Look at that ! You won’t beat that! Keith McClelland is more than a bit pleased, he is delighted, to point out his three outstanding bowls during twilight bowls.

SUDOKU SOLUTION

Getting in the spirit of the 2024 St Patrick’s Day Charlton Cup is “Paddy” the leprechaun hitching a ride with Clerk of the Course Barry Sambrooks.

A Grade Marnoo 6/166 (39.3) Birchip def. 8/164 (40) St Arnaud 9/141 (40) lost BrimKSH 8/143 (37.1) St Marys 9/196 (40) def. Wycheproof/Narraport 8/59 (18.2) Bye Donald Jeffcott B Grade Birchip 9/97 (40) lost to Charlton 10/215 (39.5) BrimKSH vs St Arnaud cancelled Donald Jeffcott 10/183 (38.5) drew Watchem 10/138 (36) Southern Mallee Giants 1/70 (21.5) def. St Marys 10/69 (34.4) Ladders A Grade pts B Grade pts Donald Jeffcott 40 Charlton 32 BrimKSH 36 Donald Jeffcott 32 Marnoo 22 Birchip 28 Birchip 22 Giants 22 St. Arnaud 12 Watchem 12 St. Marys 10 St. Marys 10 Wyche-Narraport 2 BrimKSH 8 St. Arnaud 0

A Regional Bowls Event conducted at the St. Arnaud Bowling Club

North Central Bowls

MAURIE Wood of the St. Arnaud Bowling Club approached Rhonda Allan of the Mallee Sports Assembly-Wycheproof with the idea to conduct an All Abilities bowling event for the region.

LAST Sunday 11th February at St. Arnaud Country Club we played our Knockout rounds of the Champion of Champions for the North Central Playing Area.

This initiative fits well under Rhonda’s work role and planning commenced.

The first ever regional bowling event for people of all abilities was conducted on Thursday 8th Feb 2024 at the St. Arnaud Bowling Club.

This event is an initiative of the Access For All Abilities program (inclusive sport & recreation for all abilities) which is funded by Sport and Recreation of Victoria.

“The club is an ideal central regional location that is fully accessible and also has the right equipment to assist participants with limited mobility for the game of bowls” Rhonda states.

Maurie and his team of club volunteers made everyone feel so welcome.

Lydia Schneider from Wi m m e r a Regional Sport Assembly-Horsham was also present to assist with the day which was excellent.

Bowls Vic could not attend but provided every participant with a “Certificate of Participation” to take home.

Participants attended from Stawell, St. Arnaud, Nhill and Ararat.

It was also great to see Councillor Eddy Ostarcevic attend and meet everyone.

All welcomed the opportunity to play bowls at such a great club and already plans are in place for 2025.

The delicious catering was done by The Shire Café (Dana Decker and her team) which everyone enjoyed.

Rhonda welcomed everyone while everyone had morning tea.

This was followed by an informal, fun bowls session before finishing up for lunch.

Rhonda thanked all involved and every-

- Contributed

- Rhonda Allen, Mallee Sports Assembly one for attending before presenting M a u r i e Wo o d ( o n behalf of the club) a “Certificate of Appreciation” for supporting inclusive sport and recreation.

Overall there were 8 club volunteers on deck to assist with the day.

A great day was had by all and hope to see more attend the 2025 event.

St. Arnaud finishes on top

Above: Participant Doug Walker (left) with Maurie Wood St. Arnaud Bowls Club.

Above: (left to right) Matthew Joy, Jarrod Alexander, Terence Robertson

Above: Maurie Wood (right) gives some helpful advice.

At the end of play we have the ladies Thelma Moresi from Boort and Lindy Morgan from the Donald Club winning their way through to the decider which will be played at Country Club on Sunday 25th February.

Congratulations to these two ladies on getting through to the final and we thank all other players involved in what was a great day’s bowls.

In the men’s section we have St. Arnaud’s Steve Zsigmond winning his way into the final two and his opponent in the decider is Damien Mason from Wedderburn.

Congratulations to both players on getting through to the final where Steve will be looking to go Back-toBack and Damien will be looking to win his first NCPA Champion of Champions trophy.

Finals Venues Our Midweek pennant final for week one will be played at St. Arnaud Bowls Club with all finalists competing on the day.

Play will be 9.15am rollup for a 9.30 am start, all players to bring their own lunches.

Weekend Pennant final week one will be played at St. Arnaud Country Club where both Division 1 and 2 finalists will compete for the opportunity to advance through to the next round of finals matches.

Bealiba Indoor Carpet Bowls

Above: Lunch is ready (catered for by The Shire Café).

Finals at Country Club Next Saturday’s North Central Division 1 and 2 Finals will be played at the St. Arnaud Country Club.

The greens and facilities at the Country Club are first class, and some very good bowls

will be witnessed next Saturday.

Division 1 - St. Arnaud v Wedderburn Wycheproof v Donald Golf Division 2 Wycheproof v Wedderburn Donald Golf v Charlton.

LADDER round 14- last round Division 1 Pld won loss drew Pts % 1 St. Arnaud 14 9 4 1 108 123.63 2. Wedderburn 14 10 4 0 108 118.96 3. Wycheproof 14 9 4 1 103 102.88 4. Donald Golf 14 8 6 0 98 114.72 5. Country Club 14 8 6 0 98 104.85 6. Boort 14 6 8 71 7. Charlton 14 4 10 60 8. Donald 14 1 13 36.

Above: St. Arnaud Division One Skipper Steve Zsigmond is a strong competitor and an important part of St. Arnaud's semi final against Wedderburn next Saturday.

Ziggy has won his way into the North Central Division One Men’s Champion of Champions singles final and will contest the final on February 25th at the Country Club against Damien Mason.

He is the reigning Champion after winning this title last season. And will certainly be hard to beat.

Good bowling Ziggy.

Country Club miss finals on percentage

We’re back!!!

THE St. Arnaud Country Club travelled to Donald to face the inform Donald Golf team, hoping for a big win to secure a place in the top four and contest the finals.

Nine enthusiastic bowlers took to the mats to kick off the 2024 season of indoor carpet bowls.

Most games were close but a lot of groans could be heard from one luckless team who didn’t manage to post a win at all. Better luck next week.

Congratulations go to the team of Malcolm Campbell and Pam Brightwell managing a draw and two wins, also to the team of Heather Cooper, Tiger Coburn and Chris Evans also scoring a draw and two wins.

Bowlers are reminded that next week will be pie night.

New members are also welcome to join us every Thursday night in the town hall at 7pm.

At the end of play the Country Club had two very good wins and a narrow loss, with a winning margin of 5 shots.

The Club tied on points with Donald Golf but they advanced to the finals with a better percentage.

The season has been the most even for a number of years, this was great for the Association.

Simon Elliott defeated Robert Reseigh 31-24 Bill Rodger defeated Peter Hibberd 23-21 Jason Abbott lost to Geoff Rigby 26-30 80 shots to 75 10 points to 2

- Contributed

Above: (left to right) Lydia Schneider (WRSA), Rhonda Allan (MSA) and Maurie Wood (StA BC).

• From page 16

- Contributed Division 2 Division 2 could manage to win one rink, thanks to the good bowling of Phil Elliott’s team.

Donald Golf proved far too good to win by 22 shots overall.

To both Division 1 and Division 2 better luck next year.

Phil Elliott defeated Peter Raynes 23-10 Arnold Bond lost to George Wood 15-30 Chris Webb lost to Lindsay Borden 15-35 53 shots to 75 2 points to 10 To all teams contesting the finals, best of luck and good bowling.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 14th 2024 - Page 15

Page 16 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 14th 2024.

SPORT

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St. Arnaud finishes on top Midweek Pennant sees Country Club win Finals next Saturday The last round of North Central Division 1 Pennant bowls was an interesting one, with the top four positions on the ladder far from assured.

St. Arnaud defeated Boort by 30 shots gaining all 12 points, while Wedderburn defeated Donald by 26 shots but drew a rink and scored 11 points.

So both teams ended on 98 points, but St. Arnaud regained top spot on the ladder with a percentage of 123.63 compared to Wedderburn’s 118.96.

The fight for fourth position also came down to percentage with 5th placed Country Club scoring a very good 5 shot win over 4th placed Donald Golf.

Both teams ended up on 98 points but Donald Golf took the 4th spot with a percentage of 114.72 compared to Country Club’s 104.85.

Wycheproof finished in third position after a 15 shot win over Charlton.

St. Arnaud won all three rinks.

For St. Arnaud to have any chance of regaining ladder leadership they needed to win all three rinks at Boort, and they did.

Steve Zsigmond, Glendon Hancock, Greg McNally and Tom Amos started badly on the slower Boort synthetic green, down 0-7, but had levelled at 10 all on the 10th end, and took control from there on for a 15 shot win over Shayne Morris.

Phil McRae, Col Marchment, Graham Simpson and Darren Shepherd started well and led Kelvin Depiazza 17-5 after 15 ends, and maintained control winning by 13 shots.

Terr y McSwain, Maurie Wood, Kerryn Dyke and Tony Marland had a close all-game battle against Kel Ritchie, and took the lead for the first

time on the 15th end, and managed to win, gaining two vital points.

Match details: S. Zsigmond 28 def S. Morris 13 P. McRae 26 def K. Depiazza 13 T. McSwain 20 def K. Ritchie 18 St. Arnaud 74 shots defeated Boort 44 shots - 12 points to 0.

Other Division 1 results: Wycheproof 82 shots def Charlton 67 shots – 10 points to 2.

Country Club 80 shots def Donald Golf 75 shots – 10 points to 2.

Wedderburn 84 shots def Donald 58 shots – 11 points to 1.

Division 2 All points won by Boort.

St. Arnaud lost by 21 shots overall to Boort in

the last round of Division 2 pennant bowls.

Lloyd Goddard, Peter Duncan, John Prendergast and Garry Smith had a very even contest against J. Earl but lost the last 5 ends .

Brian Eccles, Craig Cheesman, Terence Robertson and Jason Barron scored 7 shots on the first end, and led G. Smith 19-10 after 14 ends, but then lost 10 of the last 11 ends.

Wayne Rourke, Marg. McRae, Gary Shinners and Anne McNally were one shot behind G. Hudson after 14 ends but then dropped 5, 2 and 4 shots, and could not recover.

Match results: L.Goddard 12 lost to J. Earl 16 B. Eccles 20 lost to

- Contributed G. Smith 25 W. Rourke 16 lost to G. Hudson 28 St. Arnaud 48 shots lost to Boort 69 shots – 0 points to 12 points.

Other Division two results: Wycheproof 99 shots def Charlton 26 shots – 12 points to 0.

Donald Golf 75 shots def Country Club 53 shots – 10 points to 2.

Wedderburn 94 shots def Donald 52 shots – 12 points to 0.

Ladder pts 1. Wycheproof 142 2. Wedderburn 112 3. Donald Golf 108 4. Charlton 93 5. St. Arnaud 68 6. Country Club 66 7. Boort 62 8. Donald 21

• Cont. on page 15.

their first game for the season ST. ARNAUD played Country Club at home for Round 14 the last home and away round.

This was the final game of Pennant for the 23/24 season.

Neither team was going to be playing in the finals, although that didn’t stop the players from trying their best.

Tom Amos’s team played Heather Esmore’s team.

Country Club held a slight lead 14/13 at the lunch break.

Both teams were playing well with St. Arnaud 2 up on the 24th end.

St. Arnaud were holding shot only to see Heather move the kitty towards Country Club’s cluster of 3 bowls.

Tom’s last bowl rolled out of bounds.

Heather then drew another shot giving Country Club a 2 shot win denying Tom’s team their 3rd victory in as many weeks.

Col Marchment played Des Moulday’s team.

After the 11th end it was 8 all.

Country Club had managed to take the lead 14/9 at the lunch break.

Neil Robinson was leading well for the Country Club, who managed to win 8 of the remaining 10 ends for a score of 16 compared to St. Arnaud who managed 4 shots from 2 ends.

- Contributed Country Club won 30/12.

Phil McRae’s team played Trish Goode’s team.

This was a good game.

St. Arnaud scored 4 shots on the 15th end to be down 16/18 at the lunch break.

Resuming af ter lunch St. Arnaud scored 8 shots from 4 ends while Country Club won 6 ends for a score of 11 to run out eventual winners 29/24.

Trish played a very good skip’s game, drawing in for shot on many occasions.

Final scores Country Club 82 shots 12 points to St. Arnaud 57 shots 0 points.

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$2.99 per kg * Nectarines Above: Very Happy Champions. The St. Arnaud Bowling Club Mixed Fours Champions for season 2023-24 (left to right) Wayne Rourke, Andrea Tyler, Terry McSwain and Sheila Sorraghan.

Club Fours Champions THE St. Arnaud Bowling Club Mixed Fours Champions for season 2023-24 are Terry McSwain, Wayne Rourke, Sheila Sorraghan and Andrea Tyler.

The final of the Club fours was held last Wednesday evening in ver y

pleasant conditions, which were enjoyed by both the players and the supporters.

Terry, Wayne, Sheila and Andrea went to a 40 lead against Col Marchment, Gar y Shinners, Diane Ostarcevic and Heather Stevenson, who managed to draw level at 4 all after 5 ends.

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Terry’s team led by just 2 shots after 12 ends but took control of the game by scoring two 3s on the next two ends, for a 17 – 10 shot win.

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