30th October 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.

WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 30th 2024.

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

St. Arnaud Cup Day Fashions on the Track were winners

‘Talking about your generation’ documentary screenings to conclude Seniors Month celebrations

LAST weekend’s Fashions on the Track at the St. Arnaud Cup had the ‘roving judges’ on the lookout for the best dressed lady, man and child within the crowd.

No more of parading by the entrants, but just turn up in your finest and the roving judges do the rest with no registration required.

For the winner of the Best Dressed Lady, Ashley Mason, the prize was a pair of pink diamond earnings from Russ Studio Jewellers St. Arnaud.

The other winners were a husband and wife pair from Bendigo, Kelly Carty who was the winner of the Best Millinery and Michael Carty, the winner of the Best Dressed Man. In the junior section it was Sadie Peacock from St. Arnaud who was the winner.

There were fabulous prizes over all categories.

SHIRE seniors will conclude a month of celebrations in their honour by watching a documentary that explores community themes while supporting connections across generations.

Northern Grampians Shire Council’s (NGSC) Thrive 50-plus Healthy Ageing Hubs and Northern Grampians Libraries teams will screen ‘Talking about your generation’ in St. Arnaud and in Stawell tomorrow 31st October.

The community is invited to attend the screenings at St Arnaud or Stawell librar y branches from 10.30am to noon.

Council Chief Executive Brent McAlister said the documentary screenings, featuring shire residents, was a perfect way to end Seniors Month activities in the municipality.

Mr McAlister watched the documentary alongside Stawell Secondary College students and teachers last week.

“Everyone involved in this fantastic project deserves to be commended and if you haven’t seen it, I recommend you get along to Stawell or St Arnaud library on Thursday (31st October),” he said.

The documentary was funded by a VicHealth grant to elevate youth voices in the community, along with Western Victorian Primar y Health Network money to explore the benefits of intergenerational work for older people in the shire.

• Cont. page 5.

(Incl. GST)

Left: Our winners of the Best on the Track at the St. Arnaud Cup were (left to right) Michael Carty Best Dressed Gent, Kelly Carty Best Dressed Millinery, Ashley Mason Best Dressed Lady, Sadie Peacock Best Dressed Junior, joined with Karen Russ (Russ Studio Jewellers St. Arnaud) who presented the prizes.

Discover Northern Grampians campaign a finalist at 2024 National Economic Development Awards for Excellence THERE has been industry praise for Northern Grampians Shire Council (NGSC) for its distinctive Discover Northern Grampians tourism brand, aimed at cementing the municipality as a premier visitor destination.

The council was among three finalists in an Economic Development Marketing and Promotion category at the 2024 National Economic Development Awards for Excellence ceremony in Melbourne.

The awards recognise excellence within the sector, celebrating organisations and individuals driving sustainable growth and community prosperity across Australia.

The judges congratulated all finalists in the ‘large and highly competitive field’, who were ‘proving that Australian economic development professionals are employing world-class, placebased solutions to

improve community prosperity across the country’.

Northern Grampians Shire chief executive Brent McAlister said while the category was won by City of Whittlesea – for a campaign to attract business investment – the awards process cemented the Discover Northern Grampians brand as bestpractice in destination marketing.

“We are thrilled to be recognised as a finalist in these prestigious and highly competitive awards, among projects from municipal councils and regional development organisations throughout Australia,” he said.

“Developing the Discover Northern Grampians (DNG) brand involved a comprehensive process that took almost two years from planning to implementation.

“I would like to congratulate ever yone involved for their vision, collaboration and hard work, that has not only resulted in the DNG brand’s creation, but its ongoing success.”

Mr McAlister said DNG was designed to appreciate, celebrate and build upon the municipality’s unique tourism value, so visitors were sustainably dispersed and increased their length of stay.

Above: Northern Grampians Shire Council Director Strategy, Prosperity and Engagement Justine Kingan, Tourism and Marketing Officer Anna Gellert and Chief Executive Officer Brent McAlister celebrate being named a finalist at the 2024 National Economic Development Awards in Melbourne on 17th October.

“The brand also includes the current community and future community as audi-

ences, to ensure Northern Grampians residents know this destination brand

exists to improve their lives by strengthening the visitor economy,” he said.

Editorial Actions speak louder than words and can turn public opinion?

Australia is a country far away from the United Kingdom, and even though Australia is part of the Commonwealth, we have ties to that country that attaches us firmly to them.

Let us think for a moment on the path that has lead the current king, King Charles III, to the popularity he now enjoys. His divorce from Diana was a period of time where snippets travelled the seas to us here and everyone you spoke to said ‘Camilla is to blame’.

It was not that long ago that we remember that there was discussion as to whether the monarchy should skip a generation and be passed from Queen Elizabeth II to Prince William. We remember such conversations and the answer that they were firmly on the side of yes.

Today we note that King Charles’s job approval rating eclipses Albanese and Dutton, and that was before his trip to Australia. A survey has found that 50% of voters approve of how he is doing his job. The king’s approval rating was higher among men, at 52%, than among women, at 47% (perhaps women are a harder nut to crack), and highest overall among those aged over 55. Among people identifying themselves as right wing/conservative voters, his approval was at 68%, but also in majority territory among Labor voters, at 53%.

Regarding Peter Dutton, respondents gave the opposition leader his highest approval rating since he took on the Liberal leadership A in 2022, at 45%. The voters have also marked Anthony Albanese up compared with last month, recording 44% job approval – a 2 point F improvement. But more continue to disapprove than approve of the prime minister’s E performance, with his disapproval rating steady on 48%.

Granted the poll was taken during the height of the news about his purchase of the $4.3m clifftop home above Copacabana beach on the NSW Central Coast, however it is probably of more interest that the views of those surveyed on how they view themselves that is so puzzling. Almost half, 46% described themselves as “part of the British Commonwealth and that republican sentiment remains in the minority, with 45% supporting Australia becoming a republic. But the proportion of those opposing abandoning the monarchy has also increased, with opposition up 4% since January, on 39%.

Last week Lidia Thorpe made her highly c h a r g e d i n t e r r u p t i o n t o t h e K i n g ’Cs Parliamentary reception with her now famous Q “not my King” statement. Most people C colloqually seem to feel that her outburst ‘lacked respect’, but not the support that would have been given a couple of decades ago.

Take us back about two decades and there was not a person you could speak to that did not say “Camilla should never be queen”. Princess Diana was roundly held as almost a saint and Camilla the evil step mother.

Is it that Charles and Camilla embraced Australia and became quintessential Australians on their final day of tour, using tongs, and bantering with surf lifesavers and much fist bumping all around, or is it an example of short memories? The point to all this is that it seems that memories fade particularly if the focus of such memories decides to tough it out and hang in there.

To use the same thinking, when there is so much opposition to non locals representing locals in the Kara Kara Ward, can those outside this ward that are candidates possibly win the local community over? It seems they can, particularly as if they ignore the criticism and go about the job that is expected of them.

Yes, opinions can be turned.

To the Editor

Migration needed for survival of country towns Dear Editor, Migration, skilled or otherwise, is an absolute necessity for the survival of country towns.

It seems to be the flavour of the month of all political parties in parliament, to be endorsing the restrictive practice and reluctance to encourage migration.

So, we really believe in the necessity of migration for country towns to survive.

The arguments against migration are lack of housing, lack of jobs and the lack of permanent positions and the fact is that a lot of migrants send their wages back to the country of origin.

We believe skill migration and agricultural farm workers and their families are absolutely essential for the survival of country towns.

Qld Take the small rural 4217of Donald, it town would not have an operational 1 800 652 hospital 284 without the Indian nurses.

Would not have a family clinic without the Russian doctors with their willingness to migrate to Australia and work their way through the myriads of obstacles and qualifications needed to become a doctor.

Donald would not have a Catholic school providing Christian education without the Filipino and Asian students.

Ted Whilliermajor Donald’s industries 10156are staffed up to 50% with people Mandrakas bornPeta outside Australia, some jobs are skilled, some jobs are those that Australians will not do.

These nationalities provide high skills, high work ethics, and provide labour and come from the Pacific Islands, Fiji, Tonga and Vanuatu.

Some migrants provide tertiary qualifications of food science, ag science and engineering, accounting, financial services, mechanical skills and trade qualified.

A compelling and persuasive argument is the ability to fill the towns major sporting teams, hockey, netball and football teams.

We now have a

Page 2 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 30th 2024.

Russian tennis coach, Mohomed not playing full back for the Arabs but full back for the Donald under 17s and Jevan playing wing attack for the netball side involving their families in the community keeping the sporting dream alive.

We believe the ledger comes down on the side of supporting migration into Australia and supports and reverse population

decline in the Buloke Shire.

The most persuasive argument in favour of migration is survival of country towns.

We request the National Park review its migration policy implementing nonrestrictive policy with sensitivity and commercial reality.

Regards, Graeme Harris Donald

D

QUOTE OF THE WEEK Public opinion is the thermometer a monarch Qld A 4217 should constantly consult.

Napoleon Bonaparte 1 800 652 284

F

North Central News isE published weekly by Peter Marland, 3279 Charlton/St. Arnaud Road, Slaty Creek for NCNews Pty. Ltd., 18 Napier Street, St. Arnaud. A.C.N. 146 461 903. Printed by Western District Newspaper P/L, Camperdown Vic. Registered by Australia Post Publication No. VAC 4217 - Recommended and maximum selling price only.

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

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

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

SUBSCRIPTIONS Annual subscription for 12 months is only $144.00 (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.

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

No. 10156

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ACROSS 2 Alludes 7 Yielded 8 Love god 10 Falls 12 Poisonous 13 Gives extreme unction 16 Killing of a king 18 Locations 20 Dry, of champagne 21 Contend in rivalry 23 Decorated a cake 24 Donkey 25 Tear 26 Slender fish 27 Flightless bird 28 Raw hides 29 Eases a burden 31 Jewelled coronets 33 Expand 34 Asserts positively 36 Devil 37 Moral 38 Cuts sheep’s fleece

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See this week’s solution on page 13.

DOWN 1 Speedwell plant 2 Withdrawn 3 Extracts 4 Flow back 5 Picturesque 6 Dreadful 9 Employed 11 Shoestrings 14 Even 15 Casts off 17 Give out 18 Vision 19 Earth (L) 22 Fearless 24 Out of order 25 Opposes 27 Large antelopes 28 Beer tankard 30 Poet’s Ireland 32 Part of the eye 35 Anger

150 years to celebrate for Natte Yallock Primary School

Success for Sienna and St. Patricks Primary School

A momentous occasion for the Natte Yallock Primary School is the 150 years celebration which will be held on Saturday 9th November at the school, 10 School Road, Natte Yallock and everyone is invited.

The opening ceremony at 2pm with the unveiling of the commemorative plaque and cutting of the cake plus the opening of a time capsule, follows the activities that start at 11am including a light lunch and tea/ coffee.

Celebrations will

- Contributed

AT a special St. Patricks School Assembly held on Monday afternoon, Wa t e r GWM representatives Shelly and Ayesha, with Phil the Bucket, presented students with their National Water Week poster certificates.

This year’s theme was ‘Water for All, Inspiring Action’, celebrating water’s vital role in connecting us.

Honorable mentions, for their outstanding posters, were given to five St Pat’s Students-Charlie, Jaylah, Matilda, Alice and Noah.

Each received a mini Phil the Bucket filled with lots of goodies.

Following the honorable mentions was the presentation of the

Above: Sienna and Phil The Bucket.

Grade 3 / 4 award for best poster which was awarded to Sienna.

She received a sports bag filled with many items including a specially printed jigsaw and deck of cards with her winning poster on them.

Along with Sienna’s award, the school was presented with a cheque for $400 to spend on educational materials for students.

A big thanks to Mrs. Scarce for her work in getting the posters ready and also to GWM Water for their time to come to our school and present the certificates and awards.

continue on at the Natte Yallock Recreation Reserve from 5.30pm onwards with a BBQ dinner and salads with musical entertainment of Jon & Bel from Bendigo.

Cost for the meal and entertainment is $30 for Adults, $15 for secondary students,

and $10 for primary students.

There will be no charge for pre-schoolers.

To assist with catering RSVP is required for both or one of the events as soon as possible.

Visit the website at

https://www.natte-yallock-ps.vic.edu.au/ and follow the link to RSV. As an alternative, you could RSVP via the Facebook page or Eventbrite.

For further details ring Kyle 0409 946 129 OR Emily 03 5462 2386.

St. Arnaud Police Report Heavy Vehicles St. Arnaud Police is aware of the ongoing community concern about potential use of Kings Avenue and Napier Street by Heavy Vehicles.

Police have conducted numerous patrols over the last few months to action this with a view of identifying and educating offending drivers.

The difficulty in managing heavy vehicles using these roads lies is the fact that some Heavy Vehicles (PBS level 1) are classed as General Access vehi-

cles and are permitted to utilise this stretch of road and do not need to adhere to the designated truck routes.

Factors that determine the PBS levels of a Heavy Vehicle are things such as the number of axles, the length and weight of the vehicle.

Generally if a Heavy Vehicle is less than 20 metres long it is classed as PBS level 1 unless it exceeds certain weights.

Attached are some helpful links to sites and charts better explaining and detailing the types of Heavy

Vehicles and how to identify them.

St. Arnaud Police have also contacted the Northern Grampians Shire and VicRoads to request further reviews of the truck route signage on each end of Napier Street and Kings Avenue. https://www.nhvr.gov .au/files/201810-0923pbs-vehicle-configurati ons.pdf St. Arnaud police will continue to patrol and monitor Napier Street and Kings Avenue in the interest of community and road safety.

• Cont. next page.

Locally screened movies to enjoy!

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“A HORSE NAMED WINX” Fri 1 Nov @ 7.30 pm Sun 3 Nov @ 2.00 pm

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The St Arnaud Primary School Presents

A Fundraising Movie and Snacks evening Just $17.00 pp !

“RUNT” Fri 8 Nov @ 6.30pm Organization fundraising Ph. 0402 753 305 Gift Passes 5 for $45.00; 10 for $90.00

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

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 30th 2024 - Page 3

St. Arnaud Police report St. Arnaud Cup Day St. Arnaud Police conducted a police operation with assistance from Northern Grampians Highway Patrol over the weekend.

More than 80 drivers were breath tested with no offences being detected.

Proactive patrols of the event took place and no public order issues arose.

Sergeant Rob Binks stated it was very pleasing to see the community enjoying their day.

“We were very pleased to see how responsible everyone was in planning their transport to and from the event.”

Senior Sergeant Tim Thomson said the proactive and thorough planning that clearly goes into this event is a credit to the organisers.

“It’s great to see the community enjoying their day out responsibly.”

Halloween Children will be out in our community trick or treating this Thursday evening.

Police would like to remind motorists to please be extra vigilant if out driving and keep an eye out for children.

Victoria Police Road Policing Operation FURLONG Melbourne Cup A statewide road policing operation will commence Friday, 1st November until 11.59pm Tuesday, 5th November.

Operation Furlong is designed to reduce the impacts of Road Trauma within the Victorian Community over Melbourne Cup Weekend.

The operation aims to

proactively contribute to driver awareness and encourage responsible driving behaviours to reduce road trauma.

Police will be targeting specific behaviours that have been identified as the most common causes of serious motor vehicle crashes in Victoria, these are: • Speeding • Distracted driving, especially involving mobile phones • Not wearing a seatbelt along with restraint compliance • Driving while fatigued • Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (impaired driving) Police will be working hard to maintain a highly visible presence and educate drivers and enforce the law, all with the common goal of preventing serious injury collisions and lives being lost on our roads.

The aim is to have everyone arrive at their

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destination safely and without incident, all road users can expect to be monitored by regional police.

Police will be out in force on back roads and major highways breathtesting and checking for speeding motorists”.

St. Arnaud authorities declare zero-tolerance on illegal burn-offs The St. Arnaud Fire Brigade and St. Arnaud Police have once again banded together to declare “Zero tolerance” for illegal burn-offs this fire season.

Several community members were summonsed to court for lighting illegal fires last fire season.

This will hopefully be avoided in the upcoming fire season.

The fire danger period will commence in Northern Grampians Shire this coming Monday 4th November 2024 at 12:01am, meaning fires cannot be lit in the open without a written permit from the CFA or the Shire’s fire prevention officer.

St. Arnaud Fire Brigade’s Captain David Reynolds would like to remind the community the CFA would take a zero-tolerance approach with respect to any fires resulting from negligent behaviour during this period.

“Anyone who lights a fire or recklessly causes a fire during this period may face criminal charges,” Captain Reynolds said they would prefer if people didn’t light fires during the Fire Danger Period.

“Lighting fires during this period could put lives and properties at risk.

“Fires have the potential to cause loss of life and damage to property and our mission at CFA is to protect lives and property.”

Captain Reynolds said people needed to be more aware of the risks when lighting a fire.

He said even if the conditions seemed appropriate one day, the next day could bring extreme conditions with high temperatures and strong winds that could possibly reignite the fire.

“The weather has a significant effect on fire

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behaviour,” he said.

St. Arnaud Police Officer in Charge – Senior Sergeant Tim Thomson said people often confused the starting date and time of the fire danger period, but that was no excuse.

“Ignorance is not a defence to breaching the fire restriction laws,” Senior Sergeant Thomson said.

“We will be clamping down significantly from a policing perspective on unattended and illegally lit fires and burn-offs, and prosecuting those responsible,” he said.

Senior Sergeant Thomson said everyone had a responsibility to be diligent when managing fires.

“You must ensure you are aware of when the restrictions take place and what the requirements are when the restrictions are in force.

“Please join us in proactively reporting any local breaches.”

He urged the community to be aware of fire activity and report any fires by calling triple zero immediately.

Victorians can find out “Can I or Can’t I?” information at www.cfa.vic.gov.au/can or by calling 1800 240 667.

Information in relation to obtaining fire permits within St Arnaud and District can be sourced at https://www.cfa.vic.gov.a u/warnings-restrictions/fire-permits/fire-pe rmits or https://www.ng-

shire.vic.gov.au/Emerge ncies/Fire All burn-offs should be registered with the Victorian burn-off notification line online at https://firepermits.vic.go v.au/ or by calling 1800 668 511.

St. Arnaud 70 Years Ago: October 1954 Engagements Maureen Olive Blake and Samuel James Anderson.

Kathleen Claire Fithall and John Edwin Peverill.

Weddings Patrica McKew and Donald Bish.

Mary Rinaldi and John Berger.

Births Mr and Mrs Len McGuane, a son Bernard Michael.

Mr and Mrs George Coates a son Andrew.

Mr and Mrs Ron Taylor a son John David.

Mr and Mrs J P Hillard a daughter.

Mr and Mrs Roy Sanderson, a son.

Deaths Mr Gilbert Freeman age 74.

Miss Evangeline Grewar age 83.

Mrs Margaret Greenaway age 89.

Mrs M L Fleming, wife of Dr C H Fleming, who left St. Arnaud 25 years ago.

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‘Talking about your generation’ documentary screenings to conclude Seniors Month celebrations • From page 1.

“At first glance the goals and focus of these two grants seemed polar opposites - certainly opposite ends of the age spectrum,” Mr McAlister said.

“However, the more our project teams delved into the needs of the different generations, the more they discovered these objectives and the means of achieving them – were, in fact, very similar.

“People at every stage of life deserve to have their voices heard and to feel valued.

“They deserve to live in a community where they feel included in everyday life.

“We all need connection to people and activities to thrive.”

Mr McAlister said the ‘Talking about your generation’ project provided opportunities for different generations to connect.

The documentary showcases stories and themes through an intergenerational lens, giving young people and older people a voice.

“It also provided the participants with an opportunity to get to know each other throughout the process,” Mr McAlister said.

“It enabled them to share knowledge, experiences, wisdom, new ideas and beliefs while challenging any agerelated stereotypes.”

Mr McAlister thanked St. Arnaud and Stawell secondary colleges for throwing their support behind the project.

“The documentary screenings are the final activity in an actionpacked calendar put together by our Thrive 50-plus Healthy Ageing Hubs, Community Care and libraries teams,” he said.

“With live performances, active opportunities, digital learning classes – many of them free of charge – there was truly something for everyone.

“Our seniors are a vital and valued part of our shire and we have thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to celebrate them and their contributions.”

St. Arnaud's Mechanics' Institute begins long-awaited verandah reconstruction THE Mechanics' Institute of St. Arnaud building, located in the Queen Mary Botanic Gardens, has commenced the long-awaited demolition and reconstruction of its badly damaged verandah, after securing crucial funding.

- Contributed This is a significant step forward for the local landmark that has been on hold for several years.

Thanks to gener-

ous grants from Bendigo Bank, Bulgana Green Hub, and Northern Grampians Shire Council, the project is

finally coming to fruition after being stalled due to COVID19 and a shortage of available builders.

The original veran-

dah had deteriorated over time and suffered further damage during adverse weather conditions, prompting the need for urgent repairs.

The reconstruction aims to restore the building's historical charm while ensuring it meets modern safety and heritage standards.

The hall committee is very pleased that after facing numerous setbacks, the project finally is able to take shape.

The verandah is an important part of the historic building and they are extremely

grateful for the support they’ve received from their funding partners.

The funding secured has allowed the Mechanics' Institute to engage builders, and consult with Heritage experts to bring the project to the next stage.

Construction is expected to take a number of weeks to complete, and users of the hall are eagerly awaiting the finished result, to be able to once again use the space effectively and re-gain access to the external doors of the music room.

LISTINGS WANTED

SES farewell one of its own at a Dinner at the Sporting Club THE St. Arnaud Sporting Club was the venue of a dinner to farewell SES member Gary Brown and wish him the best of luck for the next stage of his journey.

Gary has served on the SES team for 15 years.

Above: (left to right) Jordan Bush (Operations Officer Victoria State Emergency Service), Shane Birthisel, Gary Brown and Matt Decker (St. Arnaud SES members).

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NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 30th 2024 - Page 5

Above: Phil Bulger from Bridgewater with his 1968 HK Holden, left to him in a Will, and restored by Phil who has owned it for 23 years.

Above: Kevin Cadzow is pictured in front of his 100 years old T-Model Ford originally purchased

by Rod Robinson who lived at Stuart Mill. Kevin bought it from Rod in 1964 and has it for 60 years.

Kevin mentioned that Rod did an annual trip to Portland with his wife and 5 children with all their camping gear, mattresses and food for a fortnight on top of the T.

Show and Shine becomes a big regular attraction Above Wally Kelly from Bendigo originally from Donald who worked with Shilton Motors for 24 years with his Austin A30 which he has had for 6 years.

A beautiful day for the St. Arnaud Show and Shine might have been the reason for such a wonderful turnout but maybe it was more that people are loving to see old cars.

More town people came this year and all the local businesses captured the additional patronage.

Organiser Alan Esmore said that the highlight for him was the T Ford owned by Kevin Cadzow.

“The car has only had two owners and therefore only two people have driven it.

“Roddy Robinson purchased the vehicle as new and the invoice said ‘1

Above: Alan Esmore for the North Central Vintage Car Club, spoke on some interesting points on a different vehicles that were on display at the oval at King Georges Park St. Arnaud.

Above: Russell Coates is pictured with his 1931 A model Ford which he has had for 2 years and purchased from Bacchus Marsh. Russell is happy to maintain the vehicle in its original state.

Right: Glen Halden with his 1979 1.8 litre 4 cylinder MG B GT which he has for over 2 years.

Page 6 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 30th 2024.

bag spuds, 1 bag flour and 1 car £265.’

“It has been registered by Kevin for 60 years” said Alan.

There was a huge crowd at King Georges Park and all the monies from entry of $10 were put towards the prize moneys with only a little kept back to cover costs.

Allan says that next year there will be another display of pre-war vehicles.

Left: Murray Keller, Geoff Pyers and Ted Goddard alongside the Wedderburn Historical Engine & Machinery Society, 1918 Day-Elder which is the only one in Australia. Wedderburn’s Peter Norman rescued the old truck back in 1974, which was restored by Wedderburn Engine Club volunteers.

Right: John and Olive Shepherd enjoying their lunch in front of their 1958 Wolseley which they bought 25 years ago in Geelong.

Charlton Lions Swap Meet near perfect IT was a beautiful day on Sunday 13th October, combined with what was the second best Swap Meet the Charlton Lions have run with 65 sites.

Unfortunately the crowd was down a bit reflecting the tight economic conditions at the moment and was probably impacted to some extent by the number of other events on in the town on that day.

- Contributed Most of the site holders were happy although many reported reduced takings.

Lions President John Headon said he was so proud of how the Lions members came together and this year was no exception given that several of our members were not available on the day.

“It was a fantastic effort by all concerned.

“Many of the new site holders complemented the club on the venue and thanked the Club for continuing to hold the meet at a time when so many other similar events were being cancelled.”

Most of the site holders, even though their takings were down, said that they would like the same site next year.

The Treasurer, Garry Larmour said that the profit from the venture was not yet finalised but it looked like they would be close to the best ever result (last year).

“This was the 23rd Swap Meet the Club has run, and we are very happy given the staffing difficulties and would like to sincerely thank Lloyd Paterson for helping us on the gate” he said.

One of the points of interest for the meet was again the display of vintage and classic cars.

“This year we had a very good representation from the local car people as well as some from neighbouring Car Clubs, with vehicle ages ranging from the late 1920/30s to the early 2000s.

The Club offered

Above: Shane Douglas with his Ford Fairlane GTA.

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Above: Geoff Taylor with his Mark 5 Jaguar.

Fu e l / S h o p p i n g Vouchers for the two Best Presented Vehicles and the winners were Shane Douglas with his red Ford Fairlane GTA and Geoff Taylor with his green Mark 5 Jaguar both cars a credit to their owners.

John said the Lions Club was also grateful to Arnold Bond (also a car enthusiast) from St. Arnaud for judging the car exhibits again this year.

The winner of the $200-00 IGA Voucher was Peter Shaw, Glenloth.

A Horse Named Winx at the St. Arnaud Community Cinema A remarkable Australian racehorse, etched her name in history with an extraordinary 33-race winning streak, cementing her status as a modern -day legend.

This film gives an amazing insight into one of our greatest race horses and all those who were a part of the training team.

The care and respect shown in the movie by trainer, Chris Waller, and owners is truly amazing.

You may find yourself reaching for a tissue as the emotion or heart-tugging moments unfold.

"A Horse Named Winx" highlights those thrilling minutes of the race, but also explains the real timeline to get them to this stage.

- Contributed Exceptionally well done by Director Janine Hoking and Writer Andrew Rule, this film is enjoyable and insightful of the behind the scenes world of horse racing.

Screening on Friday 1st November at 7.30 pm and Sunday 3rd November at 2.00 pm.

Tickets - $12 per person.

The Australian Government, represented by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, is inviting Expressions of Interest (EOIs) to sell water from water rights owners the Southern Connected Murray-Darling Basin who were not eligible for the Restoring Our Rivers: 2024 Selected Catchments Open Tender.

This includes water right owners from within Irrigation Infrastructure Operator areas.

Owners of eligible water rights in the catchments listed below, including unregulated entitlements and section 51 licences, are invited to express their interest stating the proposed volume and price at which they want to sell their permanent water rights to the department LIST OF CATCHMENTS:

The decision to participate is completely voluntary. You must submit an EOI through this process if you want to be considered for any subsequent water purchasing in 2025 To read the Request for Expression of Interest and register your interest, please visit AusTender www.tenders.gov.au - and search for Restoring our Rivers.

MORE INFORMATION: For more information on voluntary water purchasing, visit www.dcceew.gov.au/watertender

NEW SOUTH WALES Murray River Murrumbidgee Lower Darling VICTORIA

ASSISTANCE: For help with using AusTender, visit help.tenders.gov.au If you can’t access AusTender or have questions about the expression of interest process, please email watertenders@dcceew.gov.au

Broken

Kiewa

Goulburn

Mitta Mitta

HOW TO REGISTER:

Campaspe

Loddon

Ovens & King

Victorian Murray

Opened: 30 September 2024 Closing date: 12 noon AEDT, 2 Nov 2024

SOUTH AUSTRALIA South Australian Murray

• Visit www.tenders.gov.au/atm and search for Restoring our Rivers • Download and read the Request for Expression of Interest documents • Login or Register as a new user • Complete the expression of interest response form and submit your response.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 30th 2024 - Page 7

Week ending Wednesday October 23 2024

— By Glendon Hancock

THE Australian wool market has recorded a small overall loss this series.

Above: The Maryborough Field Naturalists Club at the Wax Garden.

Maryborough Field Naturalists Club visit Wax Garden and View Point in St. Arnaud MEMBERS of the Maryborough Field Naturalists Club (FNC) came to St. Arnaud to visit our premier native wildflower site that has of significant conservation value, the Wax Garden on Sunday 13th October, with the day’s activities hosted by the St. Arnaud FNC. The St. Arnaud FNC has had the Wax Garden for over 30 years.

We met at the Queen Mary Gardens where they admired the display of botanic plants.

The gardens were designed by Baron Von Mueller and established in 1889.

From here we headed to the Wax Garden which was really quite impressive despite some of the wildflowers drying off.

Members from Maryborough FNC made the comment that

- Contributed they had never seen such a diverse display of flowering native plants concentrated in such a small area.

After a very enjoyable walk we had lunch at the Raillery Hub meeting room.

The group admired the impressive restoration of the buildings and surrounds as well as viewing the current exhibition in the Gallery.

After lunch the group toured View Point starting at the lookout.

The national offering fell by 6,605 bales, to 34,460 bales.

Of this offering 92% was sold.

Sale results were mixed across microns, wool types and regions.

The merino f leece Micron Price Guides (MPGs) movements across the countr y ranged from plus 6 to minus 38 cents.

The AWEX Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) dropped by 7 cents, closing at 1,131 cents.

Over the last 18 selling days, only once has the EMI recorded a double-digit movement, this was on the 9th of October when the EMI rose by 23 cents.

If we compare this selling series to the corresponding sale of last season (Week 17), we get a good indication of

how little the market has moved over the previous 12 months.

The EMI was trading at 1,139 cents this is just 8 cents higher than the curre n t l eve l o f t h e EMI. The MPGs for merino f leece across in the Southern region ranged from a high of 1,809 cents for 16.5 micron, down to 1,260 cents for 22.0 micron.

The MPGs today range from a high of 1 , 7 7 5 c e n t s ( 16 . 5 micron), a drop of 34 cents compared to last year, down to 1236 cents (22 micron), which is a fall of 24 cents.

The only point of the market showing any significant improvement, is the EMI viewed in US dollar (USD) terms.

In Week 17 last year the Australian dollar

National Offering

Above: Flowering Grey Grass Tree at View Point.

They were amazed by the proliferation of Grey Grasstrees – an endangered species.

Page 8 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 30th 2024.

The highlight of the day for some was the flowering grey grasstree.

Centre North South West Total

Week 17 17 17

Days Offering 22, 23 Oct, 8,423 22, 23 Oct, 19,436 22, 23 Oct, 6,601 34,460

Future Offerings Week 18

29, 30 Oct,

Source - AWEX

41,535

was trading at 63.85 cents, this is 2.91 cents lower than its current position.

Due to this currency movement, the EMI has improved in USD terms, the EMI was 727 cents last year, it has added 28 US cents over the previous 12 months, currently sitting at 755 US cents.

Next week’s offering is expected to rise.

There are currently 41,535 bales rostered for sale in S y d n e y, Melbourne and Fremantle.

Melbourne 1106M 16.5 1764 17 1665 17.5 1692 18 1522 18.5 1444 19 1393 19.5 1352 20 1313 21 1280 22 1236 23 24 25 701 26 594 28 385 30 340 32 298 MC 671n Ind.

-4

+6 -19 -9 -10 -10 -15 -9 -8 -4 0

-9 -1 -3 0 0

In The Paddock Western Australia beckoned for Wool and Shearing whizzers KATANNING in Western Australia is 3,300 km from St Arnaud, and was expecting to have their population increase by a considerable amount as they hosted the best shearers and wool handlers from across Australia to try out for the Australia team.

The six states had representatives in senior and open wool and shearing divisions.

Two local wool handlers, Amy Kilpatrick and Sarah Lloyd both qualified to try out in the Senior division, representing the state of Victoria.

On Saturday 26th October it was Katanning Show Day and as a lead into the Australian team qualifications, they opened the weekend with the Sports Shear event.

With Amy and Sarah competing in the wool handling in the Senior and Open divisions.

Local shearer Ben Lloyd also competed

in the Senior shearing competition.

With the girls making a great start to their weekend and Amy won the senior division and Sarah was placed 3rd in the open section to the 1st placed Australian representative.

Ben being a little less fortunate placed 7th outside the final by 0.25 of a second.

With Saturday being a great warm up for Sunday, and also with the results being favorable for the two local girls, Sunday looked promising.

Both girls took to the boards in the heats to qualify them for the semi.

- Continued The semifinal saw both get through to the top 6 to the final.

Amy qualifying for the final as the second highest qualifier and Sarah as the fifth.

Amy and Sarah competed in separate finals, with both girls throwing the fleece to a very high standard.

The competition was tight, and it come down to the smallest of margins between place getters. Amy placed 6th with a score of 71.50 and Sarah placed second with a score of 59.40, with the winner Morgan Bacon from S.A scoring 49.75.

Both Victorian girls finished in the top six out of the six states competing it was certainly a great achievement for both the girls, but also for the local farmers and contractors who employ them.

For Lease

By Tender Frews Loop Road, Marnoo West 790 Acres Organic Or Conventional Cropping & Grazing to be offered as a whole or in 3 separate lots.

(Piggery 228 acres) (Tommy Macs 215 acres) (Tickeys 346 acres) :FBS -FBTF DPNNFODJOH TU .BSDI $SPQQJOH (SB[JOH )JHIMZ BSBCMF SFUJDVMBUFE XBUFS TVQQMZ Tenders close 2pm Wednesday 20th November 2024 at Elders Real Estate Offices, 167 Barkly Street Ararat, or .BJO 4USFFU 4UBXFMM 'PS UFOEFS EFUBJMT BOE EPDVNFOUT DPOUBDU Michael Fratin 0409 184 572 or NJDIBFM GSBUJO!FMEFSTSFBMFTUBUF DPN BV

Above: Amy Kilpatrick concentrating on skirting the fleece in the semi finals.

Below: Sarah Lloyd in the senior wool handling final.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 30th 2024 - Page 9

Notice of Statutory Meeting The Statutory Meeting of Council scheduled for Monday, 4 November will now be held on Wednesday, 13 November 2024 in the Council Chamber, Pleasant Creek Historic Precinct, Stawell, commencing at 6pm.

PUBLIC NOTICE

The purpose of this meeting is to consider the following item/s: • Oath or Affirmation of Office • Mayoral Term • Office of Deputy Mayor • Deputy Mayor Term – if Determined • Election of Mayor • Election of Deputy Mayor – if Determined

Lions Club of St. Arnaud

Paper Collection

All interested persons are welcome to attend.

The meeting will also be livestreamed to council’s YouTube channel and a link to view the meeting online will be available on council’s website at www.ngshire.vic.gov.au/Council/Council-Meetings

ST. ARNAUD SENIOR CITIZENS CLUB

Light refreshments will be served after the meeting.

PRESENTS

BRENT McALISTER CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

ROB BREESE Monday 4th November - 1.30pm ADMISSION $10.00 Includes: Afternoon Tea & a free ticket

in the Jag The Joker Jackpot of $40.

Many raffles - $1 per ticket HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE

Please leave newspapers on nature strip by 9am

MEETINGS

Stuart Mill Progress Association

AGM Stuart Mill Community Hall 7th November 2024 7.00 PM All Welcome

For all your Hair and Beauty NEEDS

63 Napier Street, ST. ARNAUD

Ph: 5495 1306

0400 451 432 or 5495 1108

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

110 Napier St., St. Arnaud

Rubber Stamps North Central News (03) 5495 1055

DECLARATION The Chief Officer of CFA will be introducing the Fire Danger Period for all land within the municipalities listed below.

Natte Yallock Primary School

150 Years Celebration Join us in celebrating this momentous occasion!

Saturday, 9th November 2024 10 School Road, Natte Yallock Visit our website https://www.natte-yallock-ps.vic.edu.au/ and follow the link to RSVP via our Facebook page or Eventbrite.

ST ARNAUD MEDICAL CENTRE

For more details contact Kylie – 0409 946 129 Emily – 03 5462 2386

St Arnaud Medical Centre is seeking a receptionist to work on a part-time basis.

As a receptionist you will be required to greet patients, manage the clinic appointment schedule, process billing and payments and provide other general administrative support.

As the successful applicant you will have:• Excellent communication and telephone manner • Ability to maintain strict confidentiality with regards to all patient and practice matters • Strong computer skills • Ability to multi-task and work effectively in a busy environment • Friendly, warm and professional disposition • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team • To be flexible with availability to cover shifts Please send applications (to include cover letter & resume) by Friday the 8th November, 2024 to the Practice Manager by email to practice.manager@starnaudmedical.com.au

Page 10 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 30th 2024.

The Fire Danger Period will commence at 0100 hours on the date shown and unless varied by a subsequent declaration, will end at 0100 hours on 1 May 2025.

Notice of upcoming

Municipality

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Northern Grampians Shire Council 04/11/2024

Tuesday November 12, 7pm @ Tony Driscoll Room (LNP)

FOR SALE

Don’t miss out!

2025

Calendars

Date of Commencement

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 from www.cfa.vic.gov.au, your local CFA District Office or Municipal Fire Prevention Officer.

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

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

D031PA

ST. ARNAUD FOOTBALL CLUB

Further information available at: https://ewhs.org.au/careers

PART-TIME RECEPTIONIST

Nicola Kirk Physiotherapist Over 17 years experience Open Mon to Fri

Fire Danger Period

Job Vacancies Campus Negotiable • Food and Domestic Service Assistant • Executive Assistant (Primary Care) Birchip • Registered Nurse • Enrolled Nurse Donald • Home Care Administration Support Officer St Arnaud • Human Resources Officer

Top of the Town Beauty Salon

DECLARATION

SELLING FAST

Fire Danger Period

at

The Chief Officer of CFA will be introducing the Fire Danger Period for all land within the municipalities listed below.

St. Arnaud Allsorts

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

FOR RENT

The Fire Danger Period will commence at 0100 hours on the date shown and unless varied by a subsequent declaration, will end at 0100 hours on 1 May 2025.

Municipality

Date of Commencement

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ST. ARNAUD UNIT FOR RENT Call 5495 2842 for more details.

AT YOUR SERVICE

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 from www.cfa.vic.gov.au, your local CFA District Office or Municipal Fire Prevention Officer.

Jason Heffernan

•I R O N S T O N E

R E M O VA L S Maryborough- runs south.

Phone: 0412 726 432.

Chief Officer, CFA D031PA

EMPLOYMENT

at the St. Arnaud Senior Citizens Hall

Sunday, 3rd November, 2024

AT YOUR SERVICE

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

Solicitor 116 Napier St., St. Arnaud

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

ST. ARNAUD UNITING CHURCH

ST. ARNAUD CHURCH OF CHRIST

Sunday 3rd November ST. ARNAUD 9.30 am Worship Team PARISH OFFICE Chris & Rob Batters Pastorial Co-ordinators Enquiries 5495 6223

Cnr. Queens Ave & Alma St. Looking to Jesus Thurs. 31st October 10.30 a.m.: Faith Group Sun. 3rd November 10.30 a.m.: Worship & Communion Speaker: Peter Welsh Tues. 5th November 4.00 p.m.: Discovery Club at the Church Enquiries: Brian Eccles Ph: 0429 485 621

ANGLICAN PARISH OF ST. ARNAUD Christ Church Old Cathedral Friday 1st November 9.30am Morning Prayer St. Arnaud 9.30am Every Sunday Eucharist Bealiba 8am 2nd/4th Sunday All Welcome Rev. Peter Downes Enquiries phone: 0412 957 383

Ph: 5495 2595 Karen@klp.net.au

BIRTHDAYS CHARLTON UNITING CHURCH

NELL CAMERON To my precious Mum Congratulations on your

St. Arnaud 100 Years Ago: 24th – 31st October 1924

CHURCH NOTICES

Celebrating 150 years of worship Sunday 3rd November at 9.30 am.

Rev Judi Bird officiating All welcome Followed by morning tea and reminiscing.

DISTRICT CATHOLIC CHURCHES East Wimmera Parish BIRCHIP Sunday November 3rd 10.30am Live Stream out to churches without Mass BOORT Sunday November 3rd 10.30am Live Stream in BANYENA - No Mass CHARLTON Sunday November 3rd 10.30am Live Stream in DONALD Sunday November 3rd 8.30am Mass ST.ARNAUD Saturday November 2nd 7.00pm Mass WYCHEPROOF Sunday November 3rd 10.30am Live Stream in Parish Coordinator: Noeline Hogan 0476 617 976

90th Birthday

Flower Show and Fair The annual Church of England flower show and fair was well attended and raised £125, although entries for the competitions were down on previous years.

Mr H Thureau was the principal winner in the rose section, Mrs G Bennett and Mrs Isaacs shared the prizes for sweet peas and Mr Roy Swanton won the vegetable section.

Children’s entries, ladies spray 1st Cyril Swanton 2nd Mary Rowe and arranged bowl of mixed flowers 1st Gwen Suggett and 2nd Winifred Rowe.

Accidents Hairdresser Charles Kearnan was riding his bicycle along McMahon St when a car driven by Charles Gardner near the Queen’s Gardens struck him.

The car passed over him and the bicycle was crushed under the car.

Fortunately Mr Kearnan suffered only a few abrasions to his fingers, shoulder and knee.

At one o’clock in the morning Mr E Goldsbury of Napier street South heard horses bolting past his home and set off in pursuit.

On the Wedderburn Road about 1½ from

town he found the horses pulled up and the pole of the buggy broken.

In the buggy were two men, a lady and a child who had been seeing off friends on the midnight train; no one was hurt.

Kitchen Tea Miss Annie Collins, housekeeper for many years at the Catholic Presbytery was given a kitchen tea prior to her marriage to Mr W Cotter of Melbourne.

Miss Mollie O Donnell on behalf of The Children of Mar y Society presented her with a prayer book.

Qualified as Surveyor The eldest son of St Arnaud’s Mr and Mrs Arthur S McCahon,

Harold age 21, has qualified as a surveyor af ter working for Mendall, Gillespie & Charlesworth of Melbourne for the past five years.

Death Mr Hugh McNeill died in Melbourne age 63 years after a long illness.

He was born at Redbank, worked as manager of the Victorian Valley Station near Hamilton for four years and thirty years ago married Miss Mary Niven at Dunolly. He established a farm ‘Pretty Pines’ at Gowar East where they raised seven children.

Sixteen years ago Mr McNeill donated land at Gowar East on which to build a Catholic Church.

- by Heather Pritchard Twelve months ago he bought a house in St. Arnaud ‘Bainlee’ on Inglewood Road but went into hospital two weeks ago.

He was buried at Redbank where many family members rest in peace.

Weather Rain for October 241 points.

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

Hope it is as special as you.

Happy Birthday All my love, Deb xxx

DEATH SAWYER - Godfrey John (Tom) 30.01.1925 to 20.10.24 Passed away peacefully in his sleep. Much loved and loving husband of Hilda (dec.), loved and loving father of Pat, Carol (dec.), Jeffery and Kevin. Loved pop, great pop and great great pop.

Sleeping Peacefully

IN MEMORIAM In Loving Memory of Marj Larmour A beautiful lady, a wonderful wife, loving mother and nana.

Always in our thoughts, forever in our hearts.

You said goodbye but you did not leave.

Garry Larmour and family

Get it through our

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KELL FUNERALS Est 1860

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Birthday wishes to: October 30th Nell Cameron (90) Margaret Pritchard Anika Torney October 31st Hannah Morris November 1st Naomi Sutton Teaghon Torney Noel Fithall Chris Goode November 2nd Tristan McPhee Sharlene Bertalli Riley Burke Greg Garton Debbie Needs Trina Summers Brian French

November 3rd Billie Baldwin Aiden Burke Bob Wooley Bob Young Sami Weir Thomson Goode November 4th Spencer Fithall Deegan Prestwood Thomas East November 5th Thomas Bertalli Frank James

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 30th 2024 - Page 11

Another reason to be thankful for the St. Arnaud Grand Piano ELEANOR Parry took one of her piano students down to the St. Arnaud town hall in preparation for the 2nd round of AMEB [Australian Music Examination Board] rural piano exams last week.

- Contributed Eleanor’s student Lucy is a 15-year-old who is preparing to sit her Grade 2 piano exam in the coming weeks over in Bendigo.

Last year Lucy sat her first AMEB exam achieving an A+ with high distinction and thanks to the St. Arnaud Arts Council and member the late John Dodds the piano was made available to Lucy and Eleanor to come in and have a practice run of Lucy’s exam repertoire.

This was hugely beneficial as it gave Lucy a chance to learn and adjust her playing accordingly on an unfamiliar piano as well as creating an environment as close as possible to exam conditions.

This year Eleanor again reached out to the St. Arnaud Arts Council and President Marg Batters to hold another practice exam on the grand piano in the Stewart Hall.

“Thank you to the wonderful Marg who organised a small audience for the occasion of arts council members and music appreciators from our community” says Eleanor.

“This added another layer to this fantastic experience and thank you very much for continuing to support young musicians on their musical journey.”

At the end of the official practice exam Lucy was able to entertain her intimate audience with some of her own original works.

Eleanor says we are so lucky to have this magnificent resource with our community grand piano for special occasions and preparations such as this.

“As a music teacher this has been a wonderful opportunity to give to my piano students.”

Results timelines for Victorian local council elections AS electoral voting closed last Friday, the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) will prepare to count votes.

Above: The appreciative audience watching Lucy’s practice exam.

Below: Community and Arts Council Members [ACM] and others (left to right): Brian and Sue Wright, Pat Wood, Val Hancock, Student Lucy, Maurie Wood, Rosemary Hines (ACM), Jan Dods, (ACM), Greg Murray, Marg Batters (Arts Council President) and David Hines.

The VEC will accept postal votes that were completed by the voter before the close of voting up until 12 noon on Friday 1st November.

Given complete results can only be determined once all admissible ballots have been received and counted, results timelines will vary across councils.

All results are provisional until official declaration ceremonies are held, between Thursday 7th November and Friday 15th November.

There are 42 uncontested elections including one for a ward in Buloke Shire.

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Page 12 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 30th 2024.

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Joker: Folie a Deux at the REX LOOSELY based on the DC comic characters, “Joker: Folie A Deux” is a sequel to the 2019 film “Joker” and will be screening at The Rex this weekend.

- Contributed Reprising the main role of the dual pers o n a l i t y “J o ke r / Arthur Fleck” (a mentally ill nihilistic criminal with a clowninspired mentality) is Joaquin Phoenix, supported by Lady Gaga as Harley Quinn –also a patient at Arkham State Hospital who becomes obsessed with Arthur and forms a deadly romantic relationship with him.

The movie finds Arthur institutionalized and awaiting trial

for his crimes as the Joker.

While struggling with his dual identity, Arthur not only stumbles upon true love, but also finds the music that's always been inside him.

Continuing the Joker's journey the film blends the grotesque with the beautiful, the madness with the melancholic. In presenting this villainous and complex character the film explores the shared madness

(as the title suggests) through the introduction of Lady Gaga’s character.

Thanks to her involvement, the film is infused with mesmerizing vocals and frequent musical interludes which add a unique and unexpected element to the story.

Both leads performed their songs live during filming, as opposed to the usual practice of singing to a prerecorded track.

Phoenix plays the complex and haunted individual through a mix of harrowing dialogue and grotesque

visuals, with the musical interludes setting the stage for the gripping psychological journey.

With an Academy Aw a r d already acclaiming his original portrayal, this sequel continues to explore the Joker’s twisted psyche, along with the perceptions of love and madness.

Hang in for an unforgettable experience!

“J o ke r : Fo l i e A Deux” (MA15+ 138 mins) screens on Saturday 2nd November at 8pm, Sunday 3rd November at 2pm and Tuesday 5th November at 8pm.

Two Firsts for Tori and Luke at Mildura Above: Jeff Cox winner of the Con Carmody Memorial Handicap being congratulated by runner-up Doug Gretgrix.

Jeff Cox wins Charlton’s Con Carmody Memorial 21up THE Carmody Family have been very supportive in the sponsorship and naming of the 21UP Handicap since the 2005/06 season which now - Contributed spans 20 Years.

Down to the last four after the first rounds were played on October 5th, Jeff Cox, Joo Ong, Doug Gretgrix and Kevin Willey met on October 23rd to determine the winner.

Joo was to play Jeff and Doug was to play Kevin.

(Doug said he only wanted to beat his neighbour, and he did) With the wind from WSW and very gusty to 50km, trying to draw a bowl found was very difficult with the bowls not drawing very much.

Jeff scored first and after 23 ends was victorious 22 shots to 12.

Kevin’s handicap

Solution No. 10156 V R E F E R S D C E D E D B C U P I D R T U M B L E S R T O X I C A N E L E S N R E G I C I D E H S I T E S S E C V I E I C E D A S S R E N D G A R E M U P E L T S H R E L I E V E S R T I A R A S W I D E N R I N S I S T S P F I E N D R E T H I C S S H E A R S D

was 4 higher than Doug’s and he did not get to even till the tenth end, by this time Kevin 1 Doug 8, on the 16th end Kevin 10 Doug 11, again on the 20th end Kevin 10 Doug 20, sneaking away.

Final score on the 23rd end Doug 22 Kevin 15.

Now the final between Jeff and Doug, Doug started early, and, on the 6th end was 8 shots to 1 UP. The trend continued up to the 13th end Doug 14 Jeff 4.

Doug got stuck on 14 shots not scoring for 6 ends allowing Jeff to catch up to 12 shots.

Doug scored two shots and looked like he was off again, but Jeff held firm to win on the 27th end Jeff 21 Doug 18.

Charlton Bowling Club Inc is proud of running this event after the passing of Con, who took up bowls late in life and wished he had done it earlier.

THE win by “Dancin Dolly” at Mildura’s meeting on Thursday was the first for the Tori Hutchins, Luke Dunne training combination following their recent move to the Charlton Training Centre.

Luke usually drives the stable’s runners but he honoured his commitment to the trainers that supply him with multiple drives on a regular basis at Mildura giving an opportunity to former Charlton driver Abby Sanderson to take the reins and she didn’t let the connections of the 5yo mare down winning by a margin of 8.0m.

Later on the programme “Jilliby Typhoon” won easily as a $2.60 fav. to give the partners their first ever training double.

This winner was driven by Ballarat reinsman Connor Clarke.

Meanwhile fellow Charlton trainer Michael Gadsden was on his way to Kilmore where he tasted success with the ATM on legs “Markleigh Caz” who won the last race of the night that was run at 10.51pm when the temperature was a balmy 6°.

The 10yo mare’s return to form, 3 wins and a placing from her last 7 starts, may have been because she had heard rumours of her possible retirement and an appointment with a leading sire.

“Bennie And The Jets” made it two wins from two starts for Cobram trainer Don Rudd when it won impressively on Day 1 of the Redwood Carnival at Mar yborough on Friday.

Inside running

by Archie

Taken straight to the front off its 10m handicap by stand-in driver John Caldow the 5yo gelded son of “Quaker Jet” and “Ugly Betty” trotted his last half in 57.3 sec. to win by 9.8m.

On current form Bob Egan, Rod Wilton and the other owners are going to have a lot of fun with this horse.

Horsham race this afternoon with the Steenhuis, Ainsworth and McNaulty stables well represented and on Friday night it’s Swan Hill Cup time remembering that the St Arnaud Cup meeting with free entry for patrons is on Sunday November 10.

Above: First night Twilight Bowls winners (left to right) Peter Welsh, Darren Shepherd and Kell Bibby.

It’s Twilight Time Again LAST Thursday evening was enjoyed by 26 bowlers on the St. Arnaud Bowling Green, playing their first twilight event for the 2024-25 season.

Conditions were pleasant and a game of 10 ends of 3 bowls triples and pairs got things underway .

New bowlers Allan Welsh and Gerr y McCauley were given a warm welcome on their first night.

The winners with a margin of 10 shots were Darren Shepherd, Kell Bibby and Peter Welsh, this three presented with vouchers for free pizzas at the Country Kitchen.

Joint runners-up were John Prendergast, Colin Coates and Doug Walker; and Phil McRae and Diane Ostarcevic, both teams 6 shot winners.

Twilight Bowls is held every Thursday

evening at the St. Arnaud Bowling Club at 6.30, the next game on October 31st.

Big week for St. Arnaud Bowling Club The St. Arnaud bowlers, particularly the ladies, had a very busy week last week.

Monday 21st the club conducted a coaching session for St. Arnaud Secondary students, followed by a second session on Thursday 24th.

Thursday evening was Twilight bowls.

Friday 25th, the club welcomed students from St.Pats Primary School for three sessions of coaching.

This was followed

- Contributed by the club hosting those attending the gathering after the funeral of former well know and respected St. Arnaud club lady bowler Maree Hamilton.

Soon after this function the night Pennant bowls Round 4 commenced at 6.00pm.

Sunday the St. Arnaud bowling club hosted the Ladies 60+ singles.

The St. Arnaud lady bowlers deser ved special praise for the marvellous catering they organised for several of these events.

It was enjoyed by a large number of people, particularly the funeral gathering, and the supper provided for the pennant bowlers who finished after 10,00 o’clock on Friday night.

St. Arnaud Indoor Bowls Tuesday 15th October Low in numbers, we were only able to make up two teams one with four bowlers and one with three bowlers.

The winners for the day with a draw and two games and a total of 39 points were Malcolm Campbell (S), Dot Baldwin and Gaye Campbell.

The first game was a draw with 7 points and four ends each.

The winning team of the second game lead all the way.

Bealiba Hall Indoor Carpet bowls THERE were some really close scores on both mats in the bowling this week. - Contributed One game in particular was very low scoring as neither team could manage more than one point per end.

There were no three game winners but congratulations to the team of Malcolm Campbell and Tiger Coburn with their two wins and also to the team of Lyle Streeter and Shirley Coburn, also with two wins.

Next week we look forward to bowlers from St. Arnaud visiting and Bealiba bowlers are asked to bring a plate for supper.

Two other important dates to put in the diary are Thursday November 14th for the AGM and also Thursday December 5th for the Christmas Party.

Their opponents didn’t score until the fifth end and were too far behind to catch up.

Scores were 11 points to 6 points with five ends.

The third game was much the same as the second game.

The winners were well ahead and their opponents just couldn’t do anything right to catch them.

Although they scored 4 points on the last end, it wasn’t enough to take out a win.

Scores were 9 points to 6 points with five ends.

Tuesday 22nd October Today was Presentation Day, which was also the last day of the Bowling year.

A good turn up of 12 bowlers plus a representative from the R.S.L. to join in for the afternoon.

First up we played three games of six ends - leaving Kitty where it lands.

It was back to having four teams - three teams of three bowlers and one team of four bowlers.

A lot of shrieks were heard in the first

- Contributed games, when two teams sent Kitty flying off the mat twice.

The winning team, with 41 points, winning all three games were Flo Andison (S), Kaye Smith and Gaye Campbell.

All teams were presented with a prize, for 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th (Triers Prize) for participating on the day.

Next up came the Annual Presentations to all those players who played and won the Championships throughout the year.

Singles Champion - Flo Andison was presented, by John Beggs, with an Award donated by the R.S.L. The Indoor Bowling Club donated a l l o t h e r Aw a r d s being:Pairs Champions -Flo Andison (S) and Maria Hills.

Triples Champions - Beate Wacker (S), Bill Deanshaw and Kaye Smith.

Fours Champions Malcolm Campbell (S), Brenda Beggs, Gaye Campbell, and Bill Deanshaw.

Presentations over and it was off for a well earned afternoon tea.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 30th 2024 - Page 13

Annual rivalry match in bowls THE annual rivalry between the two St. Arnaud Bowling Clubs took place on Friday night at the - Contributed St. Arnaud Bowling Club.

The St. Arnaud Division One bowlers handled the conditions better winning two of the three rinks by a margin of 26 shots.

Trevor McDonald defeated Te r r y McSwain 27-20 Simon Elliott lost to Ashley Dyke 21-34 Jason Abbott lost to Steve Zsigmond 17-37 65 shots to 91 2 points to 10 Division 2 Division two continued their good form by winning two rinks and playing a draw by a margin of 30 shots.

A big welcome to Ben Medlyn and Steve Atkinson, who have recently joined our Club.

Phil Elliott defeated Paul Micallef 29-14 Arnold Bond defeated Kerryn Dyke 34-19 Chris We b b drew with Lloyd Goddard 24-24 87 shots to 57 11 points to 1 Tw o of our bowlers Neil (Mouse)

Robinson and Paul Mullins had a very big day on Thursday when they played off in the final of the 21up handicap singles and the 100up.

100up Final The 100up final was played off in the morning under the wonderful supervision of a New South Wales visitor in Trapper Chisholm.

He did such a good job of marking.

He was replaced for the afternoon’s final.

The final was a great game played between two inform bowlers with Paul being the winner.

21up final The final of the 21up was very interesting for the interested spectators, they simply witnessed some excellent skill of draw bowling.

Neil (Mouse) out to reverse his loss to Paul in the 100up started to play some great bowls to go on for a very good win.

Congratulations to both bowlers on two great finals.

Above: Paul Mullins (right) congratulates Neil Robinson on winning the 21up comp.

Above: Neil Robinson (right) congratulates Paul Mullins on winning the 100up comp.

St. Arnaud wins local bowls derby - Contributed

Night game well received St. Arnaud Bowling Club and St.Arnaud Country Club bowlers met in the third round of North Central Division One Pennant last Friday night, the game finishing under lights in cool, but good bowling conditions.

This game was played on the Friday night so as not to clash with the St. Arnaud Races held on Saturday.

The night game was enjoyed by the bowlers and could well become an annual night fixture.

St. Arnaud’s Steve Zsigmond, Glendon Hancock, L aurie Goodwin and Tom Amos led the way with an emphatic win over Jason Abbott, John Nevill, Leon Lynch and Faye Rodger, winning 16 ends to 9, scoring more than half their total shots on just 6 ends; 2x5shots, 2x4, 2x3 - 24 shots.

Ashley Dyke, Phil McRae, Col Marchment and Greg McNally were leading Simon Elliott, Mark Esmore, Rhonda Pole and Leigh Watkins 34 shots to 13, but the Country Club four won the last 5 ends to gain some respectability.

Similar to Steve Zsigmond’s rink Ashley scored 24 shots on 6 ends; 2x5 shots, 2x4,and 2x3.

The shining light for the Country Club was the Trevor McDonald, Bill Rodger, Danny Mullins and Des Moulday four, winning 14 ends, to 11

by St. Arnaud’s Terry McSwain, Allan Welsh, Maurie Wood and Tony Marland.

Despite Te r r y McSwain picking up 3 shots from 3 shots down, by moving the kitty with his last bowl of the game, Trevor’s four had a 7 shot win.

Match details: S. Zsigmond 37 def J. Abbott 17 A, Dyke 34 def S. Elliott 21 T. McSwain 20 lost to T. McDonald 27.

St. Arnaud 91 shots defeated Country Club 65 shots. – 10 points to 2 Other Division 1 results: Donald Golf 86 shots def Wycheproof 52 shots – 12 points to 0.

Donald 81 shots def Charlton 68 shots. – 10 points to 2.

Boort 70 shots lost to Wedderburn 79 shots. – 4 points to 8.

Ladder Donald Golf Wedderburn Country Club Donald St. Arnaud Boort Wycheproof Charlton

Pts 32 28 24 14 14 14 14 4

Page 14 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 30th 2024.

Above: Country Club's Bill Rodger directing his skipper to where he wants the next bowl.

Division 2 Country Club by 30 shots St. Arnaud was almost clean-sheeted by the Country Club, which won 2 of the 3 rinks and drew the 3rd.

Paul Micallef, John Prendergast, Gar y Shinners and Marg.

McRae won only 9 ends going down to Phil. Elliott 14-29, and Kerryn Dyke, Peter Duncan, Craig Cheesman and Garry Smith also won only 9 ends, losing by 15 shots to Arnold Bond.

Lloyd Goddard, Colin Coates, Gerald McIntyre and Jason Barron made a remarkable recovery against Chris Webb, from 0 -10 shots down to fightback for a draw.

Match details: P. Micallef 14 lost to P. Elliott 29.

K. Dyke 19 lost to A. Bond 34 L. Goddard 24 drew with C.Webb 24.

St. Arnaud 57 shots lost to Country Club 87 shots - 1 point to 11 points.

Other Division 2 results: Donald Golf 81 shots def Wycheproof 58 shots – 10 points to 2.

Donald 74 shots def Charlton 70 shots – 8 points to 4.

Boort 59 shots lost to Wedderburn 101 shots – 0 points to 12.

Ladder pts Country Club 31 Wedderburn 22 Donald Golf 20 Wycheproof 17 Charlton 16 St. Arnaud 14 Donald 12 Boort 12.

Next weekend’s round 4 games Charlton v St.Arnaud.

We d d e r b u r n v Donald.

Wy c h e p r o o f v Boort.

Countr y Club v Donald Golf

St. Arnaud defeated Charlton

Junior Cricket begins THE Donald Junior Cricket Association began its season last Friday night with round 2 after the first round was washed out. - Contributed The comp runs every Friday night from October to the end of February (with a break for the school holidays) from ages 10-16 years old.

It is a mixed comp with players from Donald, Charlton, Birchip, St. Arnaud and surrounds.

Results for round 2: Hurricanes 8/94 (25) Renegades lost to 6/168 (25) Renegades Top scorers:- Chase Campbell 50 runs off 48 balls not out, Samuel Olive 36 runs off 42 balls, Brady Cumming 26 runs off 31 balls not out Hurricans Top scorer:- Charlie Zagame 27 runs off 33 balls Bowling Stella Nicolson 3/5 off 2 overs Strikers 9/79 (20.1) def. Stars 4/73 (25) Strikers top scorer - Luca Rice 37 runs off 30 balls not out Stars top scorer - Murphy Fitzpatrick 18 runs off 22 balls.

Above: Stars Captains Murphy Fitzpatrick and Jam Borden

ST. ARNAUD played Charlton at home for Round 3 of midweek bowls.

Phil McRae drew Wayne Keenan, in what looked like a fairly even match-up on the cards, Phil’s team of Andrea Tyler lead, Marg McIntyre 2nd and Marie Hufer 3rd, managed to be only 1 down at the lunch break 9 –10, but only managed to pick up 6 more shots off 5 ends for the remainder of the game, where as Charlton picked up 14 shots off 7 ends to win comfortably 24 –15.

Alan Welsh’s team of Ann McNally, Marg McRae and Paul Micallef played Lyn Southwell's team of C Brien, Richard Porter and Ken North.

After being down 2 –14 on the 11th end St. Arnaud picked up 5 shots on the 12th end and another 6 on the 13th end to be only one shot down at the lunch break.

After lunch St. Arnaud picked up 6 shots on the next 3 ends to be up 19-14 on the 16th end.

- Contributed Charlton not to be outdone, settled down and picked up 9 shots to lead 23 –20 on the 21st end.

Although the home team picked up single shots on 3 of the remaining 4 ends Charlton managed to hold on to a 1 shot lead to win 24 –23.

LLoyd Goddard’s team played K Willey’s team.

Heather Stevenson playing lead against C Brien was putting some nice bowls down.

John Prendergast and Laurie Goodwin backing up well enabled St. Arnaud to be up 20-6 at the lunch break.

They won the next 7 ends after lunch to lead 30 –7.

Not giving up Charlton scored 11 on the next 5 ends to go down to St. Arnaud 3018.

Final scores St. Arnaud 68 shots 8 points defeated Charlton 66 shots 4 points.

Above: Strikers Captains Leigh Van Boven and Luca Rice

Above: Hurricanes Captains Ethan Soulsby and Sebastian Zagame.

Above: Renegades Captains Chase Campbell and Samuel Olive.

A colourful day at the 2024 St. Arnaud Cup

Above: Making sure they keep hydrated during the day (left to right) Dillon Baldock, Jarryd Kell, Harley Durward, Jake Male, Bailey Durward and Mitch Egan.

Above: Dressed for the occasion are (left to right) Persia Figuera, Drew Redmond and Donna Caducio.

Above: Enjoying the day out (left to right) Emily Hilton, Addison Wright, Isabella Bigmore, Maeve Patton, Kenna Lorusso, Archer Reyne, Finn Green, Stefan Murdzevski and Dane Reyne.

Above: Getting ready to watch the running of the St. Arnaud Cup along the fence near the finishing post is Finn, Carl and Marie Hufer and Wilma Archibald.

A b o v e : Yo u n g Grace Baldwin from Gre Gre sings the National Anthem before the running of the St. Arnaud Cup in front of a very large crowd.

Above: Kate Hamilton, Emma Hamilton and Erin Dohrmann were enjoying the day in the Hamilton’s Marquee with (left to right) little Bert Patching, Jed Torney, Bella and Betty Patching.

Above: A enjoyable family day out for the Dixon’s (left to right) Georgie, Layla, Brenton and Althea.

Above: Daryl Baldwin, Peter Baeumler and Peter Hamilton enjoy a catch up at the races.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 30th 2024 - Page 15

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SPORT

HOME DELIVERY 5495 1055

Above: In full flight, ‘Pittsburgh Pirate’ ridden by Neil Farley passes the winning post in front of second place ‘Commander Harry’ and third ‘Any Luck’ to take out the 2024 Weir’s IGA + Liquor St. Arnaud Cup.

Another beautiful Weir’s IGA + Liquor St. Arnaud Cup Day brings out the town and surrounds IT was Race 7 that everyone who attended the St. Arnaud Cup Cox Plate Day held last Saturday were interested in with navy blue and gold being the colours of the day.

Above: A happy group after the Weir’s IGA + Liquor Cup, four winning part-owners from R & C Legh Racing Pty Ltd surround winning Jockey Neil Farley. Presenting the St. Arnaud Cup to the winners are (left to right) Sami, Andrew and Abby Weir (far right) and David Russ (St. Arnaud Turf Club Chairman).

Above: Well deserved and a surprised highlight of the day was when Greg Baldwin and Peter Knights (long time St. Arnaud Turf Club committee members) were presented with life memberships to the Club.

Pictured (left to right) St. Arnaud Turf Club Chairman David Russ congratulates Peter Knights, Greg Baldwin is congratulated

by Life Member Bill Knights with committee members Brett Douglas and Gerald Feeny.

Navy blue and gold, were those on the winner of the Weir’s IGA + Liquor St. Arnaud Cup, ‘Pittsburgh Pirate’, ridden by Neil Farley and trained by Henry Dwyer.

The Cup was a 2000m race with $30,000 of prizemoney.

But the day was not all about the Cup as there was plenty to occupy all.

The Fashions on the Track, the marquees that were full of fun and laughter, and the Kids race down the track.

The day was one to remember.

David Russ, Chairman of the St. Arnaud Turf Club was pleased with the day.

“Highlights for me were the crowd which was around what it was last year, the day was beautiful and it is always good to see the kids’ race down the track.

“I would like to thank the Committee for all the hours of effort that they put into the planning of this day to make it the success it was.

“Also to our track staff Geoff Briscoe and David Barrance.

“What a wonderful job they have done and there is such a lot of work they have done, particularly on the track,” David said.

Above: ‘Pittsburgh Pirate’.