13th December 2023

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St. Arnaud, Charlton, Wedderburn & Surrounding Districts

Est. 1864

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

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WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 13th 2023.

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

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St. Arnaud Carols… In the Town Hall WITH the wet weather of Friday and Saturday, the St. Arnaud Carols were forced to convene in the Town Hall on Saturday night, and not the planned venue of Market Square. - Contributed However, this did not stop the event from being an enjoyable evening for the 130 people who attended.

On stage were wonderful performances by students from the combined St. Arnaud Primary Schools under the leadership of Rosemary Walsh, The St. Arnaud Line Dancers, The Ukulele Group, and a duet by Jane De Reus and Keiren Lomas.

The St. Arnaud Citizens Band provided the music for the community singing and other musical items.

The event was organised by Vision St. Arnaud, a group of representatives from the various churches in St. Arnaud.

Vision St. Arnaud works to enable youth activities in our community, including the Blue Moose Youth Drop In for January and June each year.

Vision St. Arnaud is particularly grateful to Northern Grampians Shire with their provision of both proposed venues, Market Square and the Town Hall, Glenn - the Town Hall building supervisor, Mark Esmore as M.C., Matt Young - the `Sound Man’ and a large group of volunteers who both set up and packed up the hall seating.

Above: Under the leadership of Rosemary Walsh the students of the combined Primary Schools of St. Arnaud performed at the Carols in the Hall. More pics page 9.

- Photo: Sheryn Lloyd.

St. Arnaud Secondary students achieve highest combined ATAR in a decade THE wait is officially over for thousands of students who have completed their Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) this year, with the results officially released at 7:00am Monday morning.

This year 51,214 students are graduating with their VCE. More than 21,000 graduates have received study scores of 40 or higher, more than 650 have received the maximum study score of 50, and a further 3,048 have been awarded the VCE Baccalaureate.

Here in St. Arnaud Jesse Amos from the St. Arnaud Secondary College is the dux of the school with an ATAR score of 89.

The school has achieved the highest combined ATAR score in more than 10 years.

Jesse wishes to pursue Geology in the Science degree at the Federation University.

Congratulations, Jesse, and congratulations to all Year 12 students after their results were released on Monday morning.

The overall VCE completion rate in Victoria was 97.4 per cent.

Premier Jacinta Allan congratulated the class of 2023 on completing their VCE. “Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off and you’ve done us proud.

“What you do from here in the Education State is up to you and there have never been more choices available across university, TAFE, traineeships and work – including free teaching and nursing courses,” Premier Allan said.

Above: Jesse Amos, dux of St. Arnaud Secondary College for 2023.

PLEASE NOTE

One more NCN to go for the year!

Next week, Wednesday 20th December will be the last issue of the North Central News for 2023.

It’s time to get your Season’s Greetings advertisements in.

Deadline for display advertising is 5pm Friday, 15th December.

The first issue in 2024 will be Wednesday 24th January.

Lions Club Christmas Procession Friday, 15th December Theme: BELLS, BAUBLES AND BRANCHES Proudly supported by Procession starting at 7.00pm Please in Napier Street, then back to bring Market Square, St. Arnaud your own for Food, Music, Jumping Castle, chair Face Painting and other activities

Delilah designs winning Christmas card for Emma Kealy MP ARTWORK by Halls Gap Primary School grade six student Delilah Mirabito will feature on the cover of Member for Lowan and Deputy Leader of the Nationals Emma Kealy’s Christmas card this year.

Each year Ms Kealy invites students from schools across Lowan to design a card that reflects what they love best about their local area, with a touch

of Christmas.

Hundreds of entries were received this year, with some of these proudly displayed in the window of Ms Kealy’s Horsham

Editorial Disastrous consequences from lack of negotiation A press release came across the North Central News desk this week about the government grants “to create stronger fishing clubs” and it occurred to us - yes we would like a grant to keep water in the Upper Teddington Reservoir so that we can all fish - that would be nice. In the Stronger Fishing Clubs grant program, we guess, that water would make it necessary for a fishing club to become stronger in the first place.

That being said, what is the situation with ‘the Res’? How to not engage with community when you have a policy that says you must engage with community. A government or anyone that wants A to actually stop conversation, to stop negotiation, to stop community engagement, just do not become engaged. Just simply ignore all the noise, all the talk, all the action. Just do not respond. ThatF is what the government has done on the Upper E Teddington Reservoir and that is what they have also largely used with the farmers and their objections to the VNI West Interconnector powerlines.

Although AEMO has certainly engaged with farmers they just refuse to mediate and address the real issue of what farmers want and that is that powerlines be put underground. They simply C ignore that issue and plough on.

They say all the right things, their Community Engagement policy is there for all to see, but when C it comes to dissent from their own views they simply ignore rather than negotiate because negotiation means that the outcome wanted is a win / win for all. That means that they would have to lose something in return, and that is something they do not want.

It takes goodwill - goodwill on both sides to keep the lines of communication open. If one side refuses to give that goodwill then community engagement collapses and if one side has more power and authority then goodwill may not be relevant.

In an example of this is also in the news this week, with the then-Prime Minister for UK Boris Johnson in an inquiry into the COVID handling by his government. He said he had ‘avoided cooperating with devolved administrations for political reasons’.

Is this the same as not engaging? We think it is and D if so we also know that because of the lack of engaging by Johnson that the result was disastrous for the community where thousands died.

Death may not be the result of the lack of engagement on the Upper Teddington Reservoir but it will have disastrous consequences on this community.

North Central News is 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.

electorate office.

Ms Kealy visited Halls Gap Primary School yesterday to announce that she had chosen Delilah’s design as the cover for her 2023 Christmas card.

She said Delilah’s artwork encapsulated an iconic aspect of Lowan in a beautiful festive way.

“I was looking for a design that meaningfully represented our great part of the state and I was ver y impressed with the way Delilah captured the significance of the Grampians, and the clever way she added Christmas into her design,” Ms Kealy said.

“Our young students have incredible artistic talent and the designs they created were outstanding.

“The students took inspiration from a range of places and facets of life in our electorate, including our agriculture industry, our many lakes, Qld and other naturrivers 4217 al wonders such as our native flora and fauna, and iconic destinations 1 800 652 284 such as the Giant Koala.

“Looking through the beautiful designs our local students create is a wonderful way to end the year, and I sincerely thank the Ted Whillier students and schools for taking the time to Matt Trickey design a Christmas card for me this year.”

Delilah received a special prize and a set of cards featuring her design, while several other students from schools across the region received honourable mentions and prizes.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK The most important thing in communication is to hear what isn’t being said.

Peter Drucker SUDOKU SOLUTION

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Page 2 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 13th 2023.

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.

Qld 4217

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1 800 652 284

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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.

Above: Emma Kealy MP with Delilah Mirabito Ted Whillier and the winning Christmas card entry.

C © Copyright 2023 Matt Trickey No. 10118 C

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Significant police presence at Swimming pool opens Wild Horses Music Festival POLICE officers in their dozens were present at the Wild Horses musical festival at Carapooee last weekend.

Police were in attendance at a Breathaliser Bus, in the festival itself, on the highway and with speed cameras also being used.

“We have been here Friday, Saturday, and will be tomorrow Sunday”, said a member of the Police force in attendance on Saturday.

“Caught a couple of people over the limit (drugs or alcohol).

“But on the whole they have been courteous, polite, and well behaved.

“We have highway patrol and the local police members in the festival”, he said.

A far cry from the reports that have been received from a Western Sydney dance music festival last weekend where four people have been hospitalised due to ‘drug issues’.

THE St. Arnaud Swimming Pool officially reopened yesterday after maintenance issues were completed.

Hours will be normal Term 4 times until Sunday 17th December.

Mon - Fri: 6am8am; 3.30pm-7pm Weekends: 1pm5pm. Enjoy!

OPEN HOME 41 Canterbury Street, St. Arnaud Saturday, 16th December 10.30am 11.00am

Above: Police members had a strong presence in and around the Wild Horses music festival last weekend, operating a ‘booze bus’ at the entrance on Sunraysia Highway, Carapooee.

Going…Going…Gone ONCE it’s gone, it’s gone, or so the saying goes. But is it really? Uncle Bob’s was to hold the last market in the Market Square Carpark last Saturday, but had to cancel due to the weather forecast for storms and rain.

The St. Arnaud branch of the Uncle Bob's Club ran the market every second Saturday each month.

Although the organisers of Uncle Bob’s have put it out for anyone interested in carrying on the market to make contact, only a couple have done so.

Both of these interested persons were to meet at this last market day on Saturday, so with the market cancelled it is unclear

what will happen.

Bob Wooley thanked everyone for their support over the years.

Gordon Wright President of St. Arnaud Uncle Bobs said that it will be a loss for the community.

“It has been a meeting place for many people.

“Sometimes the only time that you would see some people was at the market” Gordon said.

The Uncle Bobs Club exists to benefit

Contact: Driscoll Douglas East, 0458 087 619

th

the lives of children with medical needs in Victoria.

They fund equipment for hospitals, other institutions and individual children.

They also support the high quality of Victorian healthcare work and education through scholarships and fellowships at the Royal Children’s Hospital.

Will this be a case of going…going…gone and once-it-is-gone, it’s-gone?

Above: A wet and miserable Market Square carpark on last Saturday morning was the anticipated place for the last of Uncle Bobs Market.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 13th 2023 - Page 3

Buloke Busy Bees colour and connect GET ready for a splash of colour and a burst of youthful imagination with the 'Buloke Busy Bees Colour and Connect Activities Book' Distributed this week to every eager primary aged child across Buloke, this book is a vibrant adventure waiting to happen. It’s more than just an activity book; it's a journey through our community helping children to understand the strength that comes from connection and collaboration.

Through fun and educational activities, they are introduced to the various places and services available in our towns, sparking their curiosity to explore them, and collecting Buloke Busy Bee stickers from participating retailers on their travels.

“Nurturing our future leaders and

decision-makers is an essential part of building community understanding and preparedness for future challenges,” said Mayor Cr Allen Getley.

“Each page is a playground of possibilities, equipping our young ones to be proactive contributors and with goal to cultivate a safe, inclusive, resilient, and prosperous community for all.”

Designed by the creative minds of the Buloke Shire Council’s Community Recovery team, in collaboration with local artist, Kristie Dean, the book aims to spark curiosity and foster strong, compassionate, and intelligent community members.

The initiative has

Contributed been made possible by funding from the Australian and Victorian Governments and the Community Recovery Program.

Caregivers, guardians, parents, teachers, and community leaders are encouraged to utilise the "Buloke Busy Bees" book as a conversation starter about supporting each other.

“Our commitment goes beyond preparing our youth for challenging times; we aim to nurture them into future leaders who exhibit empathy and make informed, beneficial decisions for everyone,” added the Mayor.

"This book is a fun way to help our kids think about how important community connection is and how they can help make Buloke a strong and safe place to live."

Above: All primary aged students across the Buloke Shire will receive a Buloke’s Busy Bees Colour and Connect Community and Wellbeing Activities Book to help keep them active over the school holidays. (left to right) Charlton St Joseph’s Primary students: Brody Giles (grade 6), Toby Bourke (grade 4) and Macey Revell (grade 2) are pictured with Buloke Shire Council Mayor, Cr Alan Getley.

Another successful year for Friends of the Gardens FRIENDS of the Queen Mary Gardens in St. Arnaud has again had an active and successful year of fundraising with a further $6,011.76 to add to its bank account for the financial year 2022-23.

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

The annual Gala Day held in autumn each year brings in several thousand dollars along with raffles and catering for Seniors Day. Grant applications when available have also successfully added to the total of funds raised.

All proceeds go towards the ongoing care and restoration of the Gardens and Pioneer Park, adding to the work done by the Pa r k s and

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Page 4 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 13th 2023.

Gardens staff.

This small team also cares for all street plantings, the sporting ovals and the public areas in Navarre and Stuart

Mill, limiting the time available to them in the Gardens.

Work is about to commence on a low brick structure on the eastern corner creating a sign acknowledging these historic botanic Gardens which are unique to the area.

This substantial

project is to be funded by the Friends group.

The annual meeting was held recently and President Lyn Box thanked all members for their active support with fundraising throughout the year.

Lyn was re-elected as President, Betty

Contributed Mazucco as Vice President, Deirdre Freeman Secretary and Jason Abbott as Treasurer.

Fr i e n d s o f t h e Gardens is open to all interested community members with a small membership fee payable on Gala Day March 23rd 2024.

GWMWater introduces online billing GWMWater has introduced eNotices, an online billing platform which allows customers to receive and pay their bill online.

Once registered, customers can access their current and past water bills online, pay online with Credit Card, Apple Pay or Google Pay and manage all their properties’ accounts.

G W M W a t e r Managing Director, Mark Williams, said investing in digital capability to improve customer experience was a focus for the organisation.

“Feedback from our customers has been that they want the option to receive their bill online.

“It provides a more seamless experience and will be particularly beneficial for people who may be away travelling and can still access their bill on any device when they need.

“The introduction of eNotices also pro-

vides our customers with a more environmentally friendly option as paper waste is reduced,” he said.

G W M Wa t e r is encouraging customers to register for eNotices by signing up with their email and eNotices Reference Number, which can be found on their latest water bill, at gwmwater.enotices.com.au If customers are registered for GWMWater’s Customer Portal, they will still need to register for eNotices if they would like to receive their water bill via email.

For questions or help registering, customers can reach out to our Customer Call Centre team on 1300 659 961 during business hours. For more information about eNotices, visit: gwmwater.org.au/enotices

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Charlton 100 Years Ago: 8th – 12th December 1923

by Charlton Golden Grains Museum

Licences granted Renewals of hawkers’ and pedlars’ licenses were granted at the licensing court, Charlton, to Bert Salgram, Pugwan Singh, and Chare Singh. Messrs W. Williams and Alex Robertson, JPs, occupied the bench.

On receipt of the documents from the court, Pugwan Singh donated £1, and Chare Singh and Bert Salgram 5/- each to the funds of the Wycheproof Hospital.

HES – Junior Red Cross The pupils of the school have, for some time past, been busy preparing toys and gifts of clothing for their less fortunate fellows.

These toys, and books will be forwarded to the headquarters of the Junior Red Cross Circle early next week, so as to be ready for distribution at some hospital, foundling home, or neglected children’s home, for the coming Christmas festival.

To give the public of Charlton an opportunity of seeing what is being done by the Junior Red Cross in their own school, these articles will be on view during the next few days in a window kindly leant for the display

by Messrs M.B. Luth and Co. Experts may criticise the workmanship, but it is the spirit prompting such efforts which should be applauded and fostered in the rising generation.

Flies and Filth Dr W. E. Wilson, health officer of the Shire, in scathing terms denounced the insanitary condition of the town at the monthly meeting of the Council:- “Influenza, with severe complications, has been prevalent, and some cases of measles have occurred, and one case of diphtheria has been reported since last report.

“The drains of the town are very unsatisfactory.

“Traps and ventilators should improve matters.

“Constant flushing is necessary.

“Flies are again very bad.

“Wire doors and windows should be in every house.

“It must be remembered that flies visit the filthiest places around a house, and then come into a house and settle on the bread and sugar, etc. with their dirty legs, carrying germs of all sorts.

“People complain about the drains, yet allow flies access to food of all sorts.”

Congratulatory A quiet wedding was celebrated at her parents’ home, “Hazel Dean”, Charlton, on 10th November, when Annie, youngest daughter of Mr and Mrs J. T. Holmes, was married to William, only son of Mr and Mrs H. J. Haines of St Kilda, by the Rev. W. G. Fitzgerald, Presbyterian Minister.

Above: 1909 State School, with 2nd from left being Old Pie (Indian hawker).

The bride was attired in a simple wedding frock of mauve crepe-de-chine and georgette, and her going away dress was a three piece costume of buff marocain and Oriental tissue hat, in which she travelled to Mount Macedon, where the honeymoon was spent prior to Mr and Mrs Haines taking up their permanent abode at Camberwell.

Mrs Haines was the recipient of many valuable presents, including cheques.

The gift of the bride to the bridegroom was a pair of gold sleeve links, and from the bridegroom to the bride a handsome hand-bag.

Tennis The third and final round of doubles matches in connection with the Northern Tennis Association competition was played.

The Birchip team visited Charlton and were defeated by the local team.

Scores:- Miss Ruse and Miss Frahm defeated Mrs McLelland and Miss Barber, 6-3, 6-5.

Wilkinson and O’Donnell lost to McLelland and Small, 5-6, 3-6. Wilkinson and O’Donnell defeated Hannah and Crombie, 6-3, 6-2. White and Stowe defeated Hannah and Crombie, 6-4, 6-5. White and Stowe lost to McLelland and Small, 4-6, 6-5, 1-6. Charlton – 3 rubbers, 7 sets, 55 games. Birchip – 2 rubbers, 4 sets, 51 games.

(Information from East Charlton Tribune)

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 13th 2023 - Page 5

St. Arnaud 100 Years Ago: 7th – 13th December Presbyterian Sunday School

William Geyer, Director of the Welfare of Youth of the Presbyterian denomination.

The building will be situated between the church and the manse,

The foundation stone was laid near the main entrance, by

SUDOKU

Concerts

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

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with the main hall 45 ft x 25 ft with a platform 20 ft x 8 ft and a porch 15 ft x 15 ft x 9 ft.

St. Arnaud men Mr James Scarff is the contractor and Mr A B Blakely the architect.

The cost will be £1,190, of which £1,000 is in hand.

At the Town Hall the Humoresques Dramatic and Concert Party gave a performance to raise funds for Papuan Missions and the Girl Guide Movement.

Besides solo songs and recitations by many well-known locals, the Banjo Band [Center, Sullivan & Reade] played and the Methodist Church Choir represented characters in a short play ‘Ici On Parle Francais’.

The Beazleys Bridge State School children, who were trained by their teacher Miss Watson and Mrs A Fithall gave a concert which was followed by a dance and raised £10.

The children were Laura and Rita Neville, May, Alma, Ruth and Dorothy Hall, Annie and Alice Hosken, Lilly and Bert Scott, Annie and Alex McKinnon, Phyllis Humphrey and Harry Moss.

At Winjallock local artists featured in the first half of the concert in tableaux and the children performed a Norwegian folk dance.

The children were Win, Kath and Jean McNeill and Mar y Lougheed and boys Cheesman, Lougheed, Coleman and McNeill.

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The Stuart Mill Jazola Entertainers filled the second half of the evening, which was followed by supper and dancing, with £17 being raised for the building fund.

At N a v a r r e t h e returned soldiers having formed a sub-branch embracing Navarre and District the secretary Major Currie organized a concert, which raised £23.

Songs by T Bruce [returned man], S Smith, A Porter and F Emerson and recitations by Mrs Bradford and Mr J Slorach.

A cake made by Miss Millie Rickard raised £8-15-0.

Engagements Miss Ivy Alison Lewis, eldest daughter of Mr and Mrs C F Lewis ‘Wiltshire’ St. Arnaud to Mr Alan Miles of the Bank of NSW, St. Arnaud, only son of Mr and the late Mrs Miles of

Melbourne.

Miss Eva Western, youngest daughter of Mrs E J Western of Healsville formerly of the Town Hall Hotel, St. Arnaud, to Mr Reiv Seargeant of Geelong

Death Miss Mar y Cheesman, eldest daughter of Mr and Mrs John Cheesman of Winjallock died age 22 years. Mary, who was born at Barkly had been ill for some time and was staying with Mr and Mrs William Perry of McMahon St, St. Arnaud.

She died at their home on 8th December and was buried in the Navarre cemetery after a service at the Navarre Church of England.

St. Arnaud Fire Brigade Elections – W J Pickthall Cpt, L Crone Lieut, H Smith Foreman, T Giles Apparatus Officer, H

Taylor Tres and A E Walsh Sec.

Cricket Crone’s team 129 beat Bennetto’s team 77 with the most runs for Crone’s by Ritchie 24 and Slorach 21 and for Bennetto’s Hickox 68 and Rowe 19.

Tennis Kooreh 47 beat Emu 28.

Mixed doubles Mr L Gee and Miss McNally [K] lost to Mr Willoughby and Miss Ethel Bicknell [E] 4-6.

Methodist 35 beat Slaty Creek 33.

Mixed doubles Mr E McCahon and Miss Dower [M] beat Mr G Robinson and Miss Harley [SC] 6-5.

St Patrick’s 43 beat Church of England 23.

Mr W Hicks and Miss M Connellan [St P] lost to Mr D Queripel and Miss D Giles [C of E] 2-6.

Sales Mrs Mary Ann Marr sold 60 acres with house, close to St

- by Heather Pritchard Arnaud Mr A Dellavedova of St. Arnaud East wants to sell 30-40 tons of prime hay in the stooks about 4 miles from St. Arnaud.

Mr Chas Marchment who is leaving the district sells W B house with 5 large and lofty rooms, plus wash house, pantry etc, gas and water laid on, situated in Millett St, near Post Office.

Also adjoining ¼ acre block with large new stables.

Lost McDonald Bros of Gre Gre Central, who have lost 20 x 2 tooth merino wethers, offers reward.

Weather Thunderstorm at midday on Thursday followed by 76 points over two days.

Above: (left to right) Senior Citizens’ Treasurer Ann McSwain and President John Caddy, prepare to hand over cheque to Community Kitchens’ Kim Lambert, Tracey Dunstan and Ruth Butler

Senior Citizens donate to Community Kitchen AT the last Committee meeting of the St. Arnaud Senior Citizens for the year, it was decided that once again they would donate $500.00 to the St. Arnaud Community Kitchen.

The Senior Citizens would like to thank all who attended our concerts throughout the year and wish each and every one of you best wishes for the up and coming festive season.

Without your support they would not be able to support their local community.

Tree down and out goes the power THIS tree, in Rupert Street St. Arnaud, fell down over the weekend in the high winds that the Wimmera experienced and with it came the powerline.

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Page 6 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 13th 2023.

There were a number of trees down on the roads over the last week and one report of a 23,000 litre galvanised water tank that took off with the wind.

Buloke’s Biggest Thank You BULOKE Shire Council in the last week of November staged a celebration to commemorate the significant contribution made by staff and volunteers through nearly 40 years of Aged and Disability Service provision to the Buloke area, dating back to pre-amalgamation.

A special day of celebration was held at Charlton Park as Council transitions from the service.

Members of the Buloke community, current and past clients, staff, volunteers, and contractors joined Council for an afternoon tea, formalities, and introductions to the newly appointed

service providers to the Buloke area.

In addition to the af ternoon tea, the event included a formal recognition of the service and staff and guest speaker Ben Harkin who had everyone entertained, enthralled, and inspired.

Mayor Cr Alan Getley paid credit to

staff on their contributions.

“Thank you to the staff we have had the pleasure of working with, we are indeed indebted to them for their dedication to caregiving in our community.

“Their loyalty to their clients throughout this year in particular is to be

admired and celebrated.

“We wish them all good luck in either retirement or redeployment with new employers.

“It is certainly comforting to know that you will be continuing to support our communities most vulnerable members”, he said.

In coming weeks, a special place of reflection in commemoration of the service will be completed in Elliot Gardens, Charlton.:

Above: Russell and Kate Marland

Kate and Russell’s Wedding KATE Haynes, daughter of Sharyn and Kevin, and Russell Marland, son of Amanda and Peter, were delighted to celebrate their marriage on 14th October 2023, at Bigibila Winery, Moonambel.

Above: An afternoon tea was held to celebrate Buloke Council’s transition from Aged and Disability Service provision to the newly appointed service providers and was attended by members of the Buloke community, current and past clients, volunteers and contractors.

The day was celebrated with family and friends.

Maid of Honour was Ashlee Garton, and bridesmaids were Emily Smart and Erin Haynes.

Best man was Luke Garton, and groomsmen were Stuart Finch and Andrew Wright.

Kate and Russell enjoyed their honeymoon at Bright.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 13th 2023 - Page 7

Page 8 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 13th 2023.

St. Arnaud Carols...in the Town Hall Continued from page 1.

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Above: The young and the old came to celebrate Christmas with Carols in the Hall, including Jade Greene and her son Brodie.

- PHOTO: Sheryn Lloyd.

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Above: The Town Hall became the venue of the Carols for St. Arnaud and the large audience was not disappointed. -PHOTO: Sheryn Lloyd

‘Napoleon’ charges into the REX EPIC, grandiose and visually captivating, Ridley Scott’s remarkable interpretation of Napoleon Bonaparte’s rise to leadership prominence is a ‘must-see’ on the big Rex screen as the movie “Napoleon”flickers to life this - Contributed weekend.

The director of movie hits such as “Alien”, “Blade Runner” and “Gladiator”, Scott has taken some “artistic license” with the Napoleon story, however the re-creation of large-scale battles has won over cinema fans with the sheer magnitude and visceral impact of the conflict re-enactments.

As a portrait of Napoleon's life - from his humble beginnings

in Corsica to his meteoric rise to power and his eventual downfall Joaquin Phoenix stars as the titular character.

While commentary has been mixed on his interpretation, praise has been unanimous for Vanessa Kirby who plays his wife, Josephine.

Filmed in just 62 days, using 11-14 cameras, the $200 million budget has justified the cinematography excellence which has

become a byword for the movie.

And for those who feel that 158 minutes of stor yline is not enough, rest assured – there is a four-hour director’s cut on its way to Apple TV+.

So, here is your chance to experience the over whelming impact of an epic movie on a big screen, with surround sound.

So why not indulge yourself and enjoy the spectacle!

“Napoleon” (Ma15+158mins) screens on Saturday 16th December at 8pm, Sunday 17th December at 2pm and Tuesday 19th December at 8pm.

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NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 13th 2023 - Page 9

In The Paddock Week ending Thursday 7 December 2023

— By Glendon Hancock

THE Australian wool market has recorded an overall gain in this series, driven by strong increases in fine merino fleece types and aided by currency movements.

The national offering dropped by 1,680 bales to 45,228 bales.

Melbourne required three selling days, to accommodate the larger number of lots on offer this week.

This was the first three-day sale in Melbourne since Week 46 (Thursday the 18th of May).

With only two selling weeks before the Christmas recess, exporters needing to finish orders, knew that this sale was an important time to secure the wool they need, as the end of the year fast approaches.

In the merino fleece types, in many cases, wools possessing faults such as lower tensile strength or higher vegetable matter, brought very similar money to wool free of these faults, as buyers fought

hard to secure certain lots that suited their specific needs.

The largest gains were recorded in the finest microns, strong widespread competition in these types helped to push prices higher.

These gains were reflected in the individual Micron Price Guides (MPGs) for 18.0 micron and finer, which added between 14 and 71 cents.

All merino fleece MPGs rose, only the 19.5-micron MPG in the North bucking the trend, posting a 7-cent loss.

The skirting sector tracked a similar path to the fleece, while the crossbred and oddment markets had an up and down series, where there was little overall change recorded.

The AWEX Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) rose

National Offering Centre North South South NZ West Total

Week 23 23 23 23

Days Offering 5, 6 Dec. 10,836 5, 6 & & Dec. 22,906 5, 6 Dec. 2,809 5, 6 Dec. 8,677 45,228

Future Offerings 24

12, 13, 14 Dec. 50,550

Source - AWEX

by 11 cents for the series, closing the week at 1,177 cents.

Week 24 will host the final sale of the 2023 calendar year, with sales then heading into the annual threeweek Christmas recess.

As the last selling opportunity until early January, this sale is forecast to be larger.

50,550 bales are expected to be on offer in Sydney, Fremantle and Melbourne, which again requires three selling days.

Melbourne 1148L +12 16.5 1940n +53 17 1855 +71 17.5 1748 +46 18 1632 +49 18.5 1523 +13 19 1456 +15 19.5 1407 +27 20 1364 +18 21 1345 +16 1336n 22 23 24 25 736n +14 26 530 +4 28 345 0 30 317 -5 32 295 -5 MC 679n +3 Ind.

Page 10 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 13th 2023.

Farmers seeking a fair go call for price transparency beyond supermarket inquiry AUSTRALIA’S peak farm body says farmers are fed up with being kept in the dark about what’s driving prices across the country’s agricultural supply chains.

As pressure mounts on supermarkets to come clean on their pricing strategies after a Senate inquiry was announced on the weekend, the National Farmers’ Federation has released an issues paper on market price transparency.

This outlines steps the Government can take to improve fairness and price transparency for farmers which will flow on to better outcomes for consumers at the checkout.

NFF President David Jochinke said the pressures on farmers were reaching boiling point, with an AUSVEG survey earlier this year showing 34% of vegetable growers were considering leaving the industry

and a livestock market crash not reflected in supermarket prices.

“For decades we’ve seen our supply chains gradually tighten to the point where we’re now one of the most tightly consolidated supply chains on the planet.

“Many farmers have only one customer to buy their products, and only a handful of places to buy their inputs. That puts not just farmers, but consumers, at a huge disadvantage.

“There’s no transparency.

“We can see what people pay at the c h e c ko u t , a n d w e know what we’re getting at the farm gate – but who clips the ticket in the middle is

hidden from view,” Mr Jochinke said.

A survey by the N a t i o n a l Fa r m e r s ’ Federation of more than 1,600 farmers in September found that the market power of s u p e r m a r ke t s a n d processors was the top issue concerning those in the sector.

“We’ve seen this slow creep of consolidation take hold of our supply chains and we’re now in this really precarious position.

“We need to make sure the rules are there to level the playing field because it’s currently tilted heavily against the farmer.”

Ideas put forward in the Issues Paper released by the NFF include: • mandatory price reporting and disclosure; • increased powers for the ACCC to access supply chain data;

• further reforms to unfair contract terms; • improving whistleblower protections and access to justice; and, • greater uptake of collective bargaining.

The NFF said the current competition review initiated by the Federal Government was an important opportunity to square up to these challenges.

“We know this is an issue that farmers and everyday Australians care about.

“People don’t want to be ripped off at the checkout, and they don’t want the farmer to be ripped off either.

“We’re putting forward simple solutions to make things fairer for both farmers and consumers,” Mr Jochinke concluded.

The final report of the Senate Inquiry will be handed down by 7th May 2024.

Staying safe from mosquito-borne diseases this summer WE are all being encouraged to be proactive in protecting ourselves from mosquito-borne diseases this season, with warm weather elevating the risk of transmission in a number of regions across the state.

Inspecting the mosquito sur veillance program at LaTrobe University’s AgriBio Centre for AgriBioscience, Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas said preparation is the key to staying safe.

A joint initiative between the Government and the university, one the centre’s functions is to analyse samples from 60 traps across Victoria to identify mosquitoborne diseases – a task undertaken each week during the mosquito breeding season, between November to late April.

Following last season’s heavy rain and flooding, particularly across parts of northern Victoria, conditions have created an ideal environment for disease in the mosquito population – with critical surveillance work highlighting the risk of

illness could be higher than normal this mosquito season.

Mosquito-borne diseases cannot spread from person to person and most cases will be mild, but for some people, transmission can lead to severe and long-term health complications.

These complica-

tions are worsened if a mosquito is carrying Japanese encephalitis, Murray Valley encephalitis, Ross River, Barmah Forest, and West Nile viruses.

Simple and practical steps that Victorians can undertake to reduce the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes, include: 1. Covering up by wearing long, loose-fitting clothing – mosquitos can bite through tight clothing

• Cont. next page.

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

• Gravel For Sale Phone Mike: 0408 316 394 D ARRIE Truck Available. ALL WORKSOC Y L T P R M R OUT P For a no obligation O YOU AND T CTION FA Quote Phone: SATIS

(03) 5494 3120 Calder Highway Wedderburn

In The Paddock Same Job Same Pay laws will hurt farmers says Webster ACCORDING to Dr Anne Webster, federal member for Mallee, Mallee farmers, builders and other businesses will bear the cost of the Federal Government’s ‘Same Job, Same Pay Laws’ requiring employers to pay more for labour hire passing Parliament late last Thursday.

Dr Webster said that in farming alone, it adds to the pain that the government imposed when it took away piece rates based on how much fruit was picked, forcing farmers to pay workers an hourly wage.

“The 30-hour work week Minister Burke is imposing on farmers regardless of the weather or season won't result in everyone getting the same

pay, they will simply see less people employed.

“As National Farmers Federation President David Jochinke says, farmers are now left to grapple with how they engage employees through labour hire in the context of this new legislation during the busiest time of the year. Minister Burke has got his way and will be getting a pat on

FOR SALE BY TENDER

Glenloth – Fairview district 201 Ha / 497 Acres

Versatile Cropping & Grazing Property • Comprising 3 separate allotments, situated fronting Praters Road • Suitable to all broadacre cropping • Ideal livestock production (sheep & cattle), wool growing • Soil types of red & grey loams • Presently wheat stubble • Wimmera Mallee pipeline connected • Well situated 10km SE of Wycheproof, 2km NE of Glenloth

Tenders close 12 noon Friday 16th February 2024.

Tender forms available from the selling agent.

Elders Wycheproof 03 5493 6400 Jim Coffey 0419 830 682 Sam Crow 0455 506 622

FOR SALE BY TENDER Charlton-Narrewillock district 585.98 Ha / 1448 acres Prime Loddon Mallee Farming Land To be offered as a whole or in 4 separate lots Lot 1: “House Block” 257 acres, improvements include 3BR weatherboard home, 2 x steel machinery sheds (60ft x 30ft & 40ft x 75ft), hay shed 75ft x 33ft, 5 x 50T Macey silos.

Lot 2: “Laffin’s” 713 acres.

Lot 3: “Jack’s” 320 acres.

Lot 4: “Dunne’s” 158 acres.

Situated 13km NE of Charlton township in a prime Wimmera Southern Mallee cropping area featuring fertile soils of red and grey loams, predominantly arable. All lots have excellent fencing and Wimmera Mallee pipeline connected for reliable water supply.

Tenders close 12 noon Friday 9th February 2024.

Tender forms available from the selling agent.

Elders Wycheproof 03 5493 6400 Noel Bennett 0417 562 691 Jim Coffey 0419 830 682 Sam Crow 0455 506 622

the back from his union masters, but Mallee farmers will now struggle to get fruit off the tree or vine to feed the nation.”

Dr Webster said horticulture is already labour intensive, but Federal Government policy is making it harder for our farmers at a time when the Centre for Inter-national Economics predicts the Mildura-Swan Hill region’s Gross Value of Production (GVP) will grow more than anywhere else in the nation to $2.2 billion per annum in 2029-30.

“Combine this legislation with the reintroduction of water buybacks that devastated our Victorian Murray region the last time they occurred and not only will our poten-

Staying safe from mosquitoborne diseases this summer

tial horticulture boom fail to launch, our local economies could contract,” Dr Webster said.

“When you are next at the checkout trying to put food on the table or in your child’s lunchbox, think how expensive Labor is making it for the farmers to produce the food you buy. In the middle of a cost-of-living crisis these new laws are like putting petrol on a fire.”

Business impacts It won’t be just the farming sector who will be impacted by the changes, industries such as construction and manufacturing will also feel the brunt.

Mildura builder Paul Lock said it takes the gloss off running a small business.

“Typical Labor policies: red tape and a militant building commission … They are putting the brakes on the building industry.

“What we need is a stable economy, not the roller coaster that we’re experiencing.

“The fact is, if you get a good worker you pay them more to keep them.

“We don’t need government controlling everything.

“Business can work it out themselves.”

Dr Webster said that Minister Burke’s Bill substantially increases the burden and costs imposed on businesses using legitimate labour hire arrangements to meet demand surges or remedy staff shortages.

“For Labor it is Merry Christmas to Union bosses and thanks for all your support, but to Australian businesses it is a lump of coal under the tree.”

The Federal Government was able to pass these changes by splitting the legislation in a deal with Senate crossbenchers

Jacquie Lambie and David Pocock, with other measures affecting gig and casual workers as well as minimum rates for owner-operator truck drivers to be discussed in the new year.

“I will continue to fight against the remaining parts of the Bill which will only harm Mallee producers and businesses,” Dr Webster said.

“We in the Coalition

support the parts of the Bill which addresses positive changes such as small business redundancy exemptions, industrial manslaughter and protections against discrimination and wage theft but we will be doing everything we can to hold the Government to account for changes that will have perverse outcomes for Australians.”

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

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

• From page 10.

2. Using mosquito repellents containing Picaridin or DEET on all exposed skin 3. Checking the repellent label before applying to children – spraying or rubbing repellent on children’s clothes is recommended, avoiding their skin especially their hands 4. Limiting outdoor activity if there is a significant uptick in mosquitoes and using ’knockdown’ fly spray, mosquito coils or plugin repellent while sitting or eating outdoors 5. Removing stagnant water where mosquitoes can breed around the home or a campsite 6. Making sure accommodation is fitted with mosquito netting or screens while on holiday Victorians in highrisk local government including Northern Grampians and Buloke areas are also eligible for the Japanese encephalitis vaccines – available at GPs, Aboriginal community-controlled organisations, community pharmacies and local councils.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 13th 2023 - Page 11

EMPLOYMENT Job Opportunities Campus Base Negotiable • Graduate Registered Nurse Birchip • Food & Domestic Service Assistant Charlton • District Nurse • Administration Assistant • Enrolled Nurse • Registered Nurse St Arnaud • District Nurse • Associate Nurse Unit Manager • Enrolled Nurse • Maintenance Officer Wycheproof • District Nurse • Enrolled Nurse • Registered Nurse • Resident Lifestyle Coordinator Further information available at: https://ewhs.org.au/careers

Christmas Lights Celebration

LIGHT UP YOUR HOME Supported by Lions Club Of St. Arnaud

PUBLIC NOTICE

St. Arnaud Historical Society Christmas Raffle

WINNERS

St. Arnaud Solar

1st: Judy Forster 2nd: Lauren Bales 3rd: Meg Mcllwain Thankyou to all patrons and volunteers.

FOR SALE

Winners announced at Lions Christmas Procession December 15th at Market Square Register your entry by Thursday 14th December before 12noon Email: johnbeggs2003@yahoo.com.au or phone 0417 448 929

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

Ph: 5495 2595 Karen@klp.net.au

ORDER YOUR

CHRISTMAS FLOWERS NOW! at St. Arnaud Allsorts

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

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

$20 available at North Central News and Apex Service Station St. Arnaud.

TO ADVERTISE PH: 5495 1055

Page 12 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 13th 2023.

AT YOUR SERVICE

This Saturday, December 17 9AM - 1PM

Creating stronger local fishing clubs across Victoria AT YOUR SERVICE

CLOHESY (Wiseman)

- Rhonda Joy RELOCATED passed away peacefully

Nicola Kirk Physiotherapist Over 16 years experience Open Mon to Fri 63 Napier Street, ST. ARNAUD

0400 451 432 or 5495 1108

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

Ph: 5495 1306 ~ OPEN ~ Monday to Friday

CHRISTMAS GIFT PACKS NOW AVAILABLE! Colours, Perms, Unisex Cuts, Waxing, Teeth Whitening, Brow Wax & Tinting, Tanning etc..

110 Napier St., St. Arnaud

90TH BIRTHDAY

Happy 90th Mum 15/12/23

IN MEMORIAM

DEATH

in St. Arnaud on Dec 9th 2023, aged 74 yrs.

Loved wife of Mick (dec) and loving mother and mother-in-law of Tim (dec); Darren and Tanya; Greg and Tanya; Steven and Lisa. Adored Nan of Lewis; Brooke, Darcy; Tayla, Zac, Max; Bella and Lacee.

Re united with Mick.

CURNOW (Ower) - Elizabeth Jean “Beth” passed away peacefully in Charlton surrounded by her loving family on Dec 9th 2023, aged 87 yrs. Dearly loved wife of Graham. Loving mother of Jan, Geoff, Lyn and mother-in-law of Peter, Lois and Bruce. Adored Nan of Brett, Kody and Sarah, Lachlan and Amy, Aaron, Brandon and Great Nana of Scarlet, Madison, Florence, Lilly, Blaik, Jed and Averie.

Forever in our hearts.

GREENAWAY (Silva) - Dorothy Eilene Sleep peacefully my friend. I will miss you.

Love to Bruce for all your care.

Ronnie and Cheryl

RAEBURN - Lawrence Charles (Charlie) Passed away at Ballarat Base Hospital on Dec 5th 2023. (Late of Navarre).

Loving son of the late Alan and Laura Raeburn. Loved brother to Brian (Dec), Noel, Ian, Ken, Bev, Helen and their families.

FUNERAL CLOHESY A service for Mrs. Rhonda Clohesy will be held at the Church of Immaculate Conception St. Arnaud on THURSDAY (Dec. 14th) at 12.30pm. The cortege will then leave for the St. Arnaud Lawn Cemetery.

Tributes at lifelived.com.au KELL FUNERALS ST ARNAUD NFDA

CURNOW A service for Mrs. Beth Curnow will be held at the Uniting Church Charlton on FRIDAY (Dec. 15th ) at 2.00pm.

A private burial will be held.

KELL FUNERALS ST ARNAUD NFDA

MARCHMENT - Keith Henry Eldest son of Mamie and Thomas Marchment (both dec.). Eldest brother of Colin and Mervyn (dec.). Loved uncle of Colleen, Michael and families.

R.I.P. PERRY (Battersby) - Elvie Joan passed away peacefully in St Arnaud on Dec 11th 2023 aged 95 years. Dearly loved wife of Don (dec) and devoted mother, motherin-law, Grandmother and Great Grandmother of Michelle and Ross Kirk, Krystal and Stephen Motton, Ebony and Scott Whelan, Amarlie and Darcey: Craig and Shelley Perry, Christopher, Brenton and Brooke.

Loved and remembered always

EST: 1860

5495 1043

EST: 1860

TOLHURST - Jennifer Anne July 1949 - Dec. 2022 Loved and remembered.

By Family and Friends.

CHURCH NOTICES ANGLICAN PARISH OF ST. ARNAUD Christ Church Old Cathedral Friday 15th December 9am 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

ANGLICAN PARISH OF ST. ARNAUD

Christmas Services Christmas Eve: 9.30am Family Communion at CCOC. 5.00pm Family Communion at St. David’s Bealiba.

7.30pm Combined Christmas Service at St. Arnaud UCA. Christmas Day: 9.30am Simple Family Service (not communion approx. 40 minutes) at St. Arnaud.

(Please note that our Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Services are designed for all ages).

GRANTS to enable fishing clubs to have the facilities they need to grow their community for generations to come, the new grants back community-based fishing clubs across Victoria.

Minister for Outdoor Recreation Steve Dimopoulos has announced the first 20 grants awarded to local clubs through the State Government’s Stronger Fishing Clubs Grant Program, with the $1.2 million investment funded by the reinvestment of fishing licence fees.

The program will support clubs with grants of up to $10,000, with the first recipients

CHURCH NOTICES

ST. ARNAUD UNITING CHURCH Sunday 17th December ST. ARNAUD 9.30am Empty Christmas Tree Worship Team PARISH OFFICE Chris & Rob Batters Pastorial Co-ordinators Enquiries 5495 6223 DISTRICT CATHOLIC CHURCHES East Wimmera Parish BIRCHIP

Sunday December 17th 8.30am Mass BOORT

Sunday December 17th 10.30am

5495 1043

ST. ARNAUD CHURCH OF CHRIST

PERRY A service for Mrs. Elvie Perry will be held in the Uniting Church St. Arnaud on MONDAY (Dec. 18th ) at 11am.

A private burial will be held.

KELL FUNERALS ST ARNAUD

Live Stream in BANYENA No Mass CHARLTON

Cnr. Queens Ave & Alma St. Celebrating Christ’s Birth Thu 14th December 10.30 a.m.: Faith Group Sun 17th December 9.45 a.m. Prayer Time 10.30 a.m.: Christmas Service Christmas Luncheon to follow All welcome Enquiries: Brian Eccles Ph: 5495 2267

Saturday December 16th 7.00pm Mass

NFDA

EST: 1860

5495 1043 RAEBURN A Graveside Service will be held for the late Mr Lawrence Charles (Charlie) Raeburn at the Navarre Cemetery on Thursday Dec 14th 2023 commencing at 11.00am.

The Service will be recorded to View later on Thursday on our website in Past Services.

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including Sheppartonbased Burnanga Indigenous Fishing Club, Port Albert Fishing Club, Ballarat’s Lakeside Anglers Club, Ocean Grove Angling Club and the 100-yearold Mitcham Angling Club.

The program is part

of the State Government’s $96m investment to improve fishing, boating, piers and aquaculture for communities across the state.

Applications for the second round of grants will be available in 2024 and more applications are currently being considered.

To learn more, visit vfa.vic.gov.au/strongerfishingclubs.

DONALD

Sunday December 17th 10.30pm Live Stream out to churches without Mass ST. ARNAUD

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Sunday December 17th 10.30am Live Stream in Parish Coordinator: Noeline Hogan 0476 617 976

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Christmas Eve & Christmas Day 9.30am Both are simple communion services suitable for all ages

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Congratulations Jesse Amos Dux of St. Arnaud Secondary College 2023 It was worth all the long hours and hard work that you put in and your grandparents Howard, Jan, Desmond and Marion are so proud of you.

Also congratulations and thank you to the St. Arnaud Secondary College Principal and Staff for helping the year 12 students to attain the highest average ATAR in more than 10 years.

Well done St. Arnaud Secondary College, Staff and Year 12 students.

Jan and Howard Amos.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 13th 2023 - Page 13

Parliament recognises RFDS Community transport teams THE Royal Flying Doctors Service (RFDS) has supported the health care needs of rural and remote communities across Australia for almost 100 years, aiming to reduce the barrier of distance for remote communities and make quality healthcare accessible to all.

Launched in 2018, Flying Doctor Community Transport provides eligible clients with free transport from home to health appointments and funded Social Support Groups.

It is a volunteer-led program, which relies on the generosity of local volunteer drivers and a service which genuinely saves lives.

On Tuesday 28th of September, Member for Ripon Martha Haylett and Member for Euroa Annabelle Clelland joined together, alongside RFDS Victoria Chief Executive Scott Chapman to host an

af ternoon tea in Parliament to recognise the importance of the RFDS Community Transport Service.

The event was also an opportunity to gain insights into the current challenges faced by volunteer community transport teams and to meet with representatives from the RFDS, their dedicated volunteers, and the clients they serve.

Praise for local support Ms Haylett said that the new RFDS Community Transport Service in St. Arnaud has already registered over 200 clients and

completed almost 300 trips with 12 local volunteers.

“The St. Arnaud community has wrapped their arms around the service, as it is filling a critical gap in the local healthcare and transport system.”

“I am so grateful for the incredible work of the RFDS and local volunteers to help people in their times of need.”

Ms Haylett said it was wonderful to recently host the RFDS in Parliament.

“And to hear from locals like Brad and Allison Murray from St. Arnaud who have directly benefited from this important service.”

Above: Martha Haylett MP with St. Arnaud’s Brad and Allison Murray at the RFDS afternoon tea to recognise the RFDS Community Transport at Parliament House...PHOTO: Supplied

Investment in sewerage infrastructure key for town growth GWMWater is extending its sewerage network to service a new residential development area at Green Hill Lake, east of Ararat.

Above: (left to right) Finn Wilson, Keegan Amos, Telisha Johns, Melissa Esmore, Ava Wilson, Emily Edwards and Jenae Polkinghorne, ‘holding’ Kate Douglas... PHOTO: Supplied

Kate Douglas takes Bordertown by storm NOT much bigger than St. Arnaud, South Australia’s Bordertown is now the town in which Stuart Mill local girl Kate Douglas has set up business, opening a Ballet and Dance Studio in February of this year.

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Birthday wishes to: December 13th Keith Hicks December 14th Mark Fithall (50) December 15th Sam Cummings Betty Dyke (90) Richie Needs Shane Organ Kayla Walker Trenton Wright December 16th Breanna Burge Colleen Rusk Hannah Snow

December 17th Lisa Anderson Zac Forster Hayden Harvey Ian Harvey Des Moulday Hugh Sutherland Lyn Walker Jenna Williams Graeme Medlyn December 18th Kylie Glidden Trevor Wiseman December 19th Isabella Wild John Cross Jason McIntyre Joanne Roberts

Kate has relocated to Lowan Vale with her fiancé Angus Halliday on Callowie Merino Stud, which is a drive of 28 kms for Kate to attend her Dance Studio.

As a sign of the respect Kate has earned in such a short time the Dance School now boasts 130 students ranging in age from 3 years old to 97 years old and Kate has made it her mission to be inclusive of everyone in this community.

This includes toddlers, the disabled including those with Downs Syndrome and Autism and the elderly with dementia from Charla Lodge.

This year, the carers at Charla Lodge have noted big improvements in the wellbeing of the special needs groups which is a testament

Page 14 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 13th 2023.

to Kate’s Studio.

Dance

Inaugural Showcase This month Kate’s Dance Studio has held its inaugural Dance Showcase in the Bordertown Civic Hall with the aisles and seats packed and a sell-out of 500 tickets purchased.

With the wonderful support Kate received including the major sponsors in the local community, Kate has become one of the ‘locals’, calling it home.

The St. Arnaud Dance Capital community and Montana Ferguson also showed their incredible support to Kate when a group travelled over to be there for Kate.

This group were on hand to assist Kate in any way possible including behind the scenes, a huge testament to the loyalty that Kate inspires in people.

A tender has been awarded to S&R Engineering and Construction for the construction of a gravity sewer main to service the new estate.

G W M W a t e r Managing Director, Mark Williams, said the construction of the gravity sewer will not only service the immediate development, but could also command adjacent land that has been earmarked for further residential development.

The gravity sewer is a solution that was agreed with the developer and will provide the most cost-effective long-term solution.

In 2013, 156 Ha of farmland was re-zoned to ‘General Residential’ in the Green Hill Lake area and reticulated sewerage system was required for the proposed development.

At the same time, GWMWater was undertaking a sewerage augmentation project in Ararat to address challenges with sewer capacity in the Alfred Street area during high intensity rainfall events.

GWMWater was alerted to the proposed development by Ararat Rural City Council and was able to build a new pump station at Heath Street, further east.

This was completed

in 2016 in anticipation that the Green Hill L ake development would progress.

“To address both issues, GWMWater decided to redirect Alfred Street sewer flows to a new pump station at Heath Street in Ararat.

“This pump station

was designed to have sufficient capacity and depth to service the Green Hill Lake development by gravity,” said Mr Williams.

Works for the project are expected to be complete by mid-2024.

“Investing in our sewerage infrastructure is important to ensure the liveability of our communities for generations to come.” said Mr Williams.

Victorians dying each week waiting for critical surgery A tragic number of Victorians are dying while waiting for critical surgery as the dire state of Victoria’s health system is further exposed.

Under questioning during Public Accounts and Estimates Committee (PAEC) hearings this week, Department of Health officials confirmed: • 1,395 Victorians were removed from the elective surgery waitlist because they died during 2022-23.

• 20 Victorians died due to Ambulance Victoria failures across the 24 months to June 2023.

• 18,988 taxi trips were used to transport Victorian patients because an ambulance was not available.

• 9,520 nurses left the industry during 2022, up from 7,067 in 2021 – an increase of 34 per cent.

Deputy Leader of The Nationals and Member for Lowan Emma Kealy said the figures were deeply concerning and highlighted the crisis across Victoria’s health system.

“This is not a healthcare crisis caused by COVID – the Victorian healthcare system was in crisis well before the COVID pandemic began.

“Victoria’s health system is on life support and Labor needs to take urgent action to address our health crisis and ensure all Victorians have access to the healthcare they deserve” Ms Kealy said.

Forthcoming exhibition: Diversity in Colour THE Bendigo Artists Collective, known for its vibrant contribution to the local art scene, is set to unveil its latest exhibition, "Diversity in Colour."

This much-anticipated event will take place at the Raillery Hub Gallery and Shop, Queens Ave, St Arnaud, opening on 9th December at 2 pm and is available to view until 28th January, 2024.

This exhibition brings together a collection of works by artists who have made a mark in their respective mediums, showcasing a range of styles and inspirations.

The collective, comprising individuals

with diverse backgrounds and artistic journeys, presents a unique tapestry of visual expressions.

Among the featured artists is Dianne Davies, who started her artistic journey with the Bendigo Botanical Illustrators in 2005.

Dianne’s watercolour paintings, primarily focusing on plants, reflect her deep passion for botanical illustration, honed through workshops with renowned artists.

Barb Fordham's art-

works are deeply influence by her upbringing in Barraport, near Boort, and her life in Bendigo.

Working in watercolour, pastel, and graphite, Barb’s creations are inspired by the natural world, the ocean, and Central Victorian buildings, showcasing her versatility and keen eye for detail.

Carol Holl, despite being new to painting, demonstrates a profound interest in watercolour.

She recently joined classes with Nick Truscott, seeking to master the nuances of this challenging medium.

Sharron Hollis has always shown a keen interest in art.

Since 2015, she has been learning and experimenting with various mediums like acrylic, oil, and graphite.

Sharron’s works, which have been exhibited and sold at several art shows, mirror her journey of continuous learning and creative exploration.

Di Huggins, a veteran in watercolour painting, has enjoyed a long and illustrious career, marked by numerous exhibitions and awards. Her focus on gardens and flowers

has brought her both joy and recognition.

Jenny Ke o w n , mostly known for her watercolour works, has recently expanded her repertoire to include other mediums.

Her art, often inspired by her travels, captures the beauty of the natural world in vivid colours and diverse styles.

Prue McKechnie's work in watercolour reflects her love for the outdoors, travel, and heritage dwellings.

Her paintings are a testament to her skill and passion for capturing the essence of her subjects.

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- Contributed abstract aspects of watercolour.

Her retirement has given her the time to explore and experiment with this medium, pushing its boundaries with unconventional tools and techniques.

The "Diversity in Colour" exhibition is a celebration of these artists' unique perspectives and skills.

It offers visitors a chance to delve into the diverse world of The Bendigo Artists Collective, a group that continues to enrich the cultural tapestry of Bendigo and beyond.

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Rod Orr started his artistic journey as a member of the Bendigo Botanical Illustrators.

His interest in nature is evident in his attempts to photograph, draw, and paint various natural specimens.

Pam Sheean transitioned from nature photography to botanical illustration with a particular focus on birds.

Her detailed and delicate work is mainly based on her own photographs, offering a glimpse into her artistic process.

Carol Woodhams finds joy in the

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NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 13th 2023 - Page 15

Union exposes safety breaches on Combined Probus Club biggest transmission project of St. Arnaud report SAFEWORK NSW is on the ground inspecting the worksites of Australia’s largest renewable energy transmission project, after the Electrical Trades Union uncovered major safety breaches.

An inspection blitz by the ETU last week exposed dangerous workplace practices and conditions on the sites of Project EnergyConnect, a massive transmission line connecting power grids in South Australia, NSW and Victoria.

Those breaches include the use of non-compliant harnesses and first aid kits, poor food, water and sun safety, unqualified workers conducting electrical work, and no toilets.

COVID Updates and Developments Victorian Stats Victoria has recorded a 3.4 per cent rise in new COVID cases in the past week, a sign the anticipated new wave of the virus has crested.

However, hospitalisations have risen substantially in that time.

The state recorded 27,790 total cases in the past week.

The current average remains high compared to recent months but remains below the most recent peak in May/June.

The 7-day average of ICU patients also declined this week (15 to 11).

Quantitative wastewater levels indicate there are currently high COVID-19 viral loads in Victorian wastewater.

Regional quantitative wastewater levels remain high.

Deaths in the most recent 28-day period (25/10/2023 – 21/11/2023) have continued to increase, compared to the prior 28-day period (27/09/2023 – 24/10/2023), with a current 28-day total of 166.

Increases and decreases in the reporting of deaths attributable to COVID-19 tend to lag waves of infections and hospitalisations by several weeks.

New COVID vaccine now in pharmacies The new COVID-19 vaccine to target the current Omicron variant of the virus is available in community pharmacies throughout Australia from last Monday.

The category of vaccines known as XBB 1.5 was approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in October and can be used as a primary vaccination dosage as well as booster dosages.

Pharmacy Guild of Australia National President, Professor Trent Twomey says the new vaccine will be more targeted at the virus which is currently circulating among the population.

“With COVID-19 cases on the rise, it is important that anyone who is due for their vaccination does so as soon as they can at their local community pharmacy,” Professor Twomey said.

“Health authorities have recommended that vaccines move away from formulations which target the original or ancestral strain”.

Professor Twomey said that the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) is not recommending those who are not due for their vaccination to get an additional booster because of the arrival of the new vaccine.

“The advice remains that you must wait six months from your last jab to get your next booster shot and older vaccinations still provide protection against the severest of symptoms,” he said.

The vaccines available are being manufactured

by Pfizer and Moderna.

Pfizer has two formulations with one for patients aged five and over and less than twelve, and one for patients aged twelve and over. The Moderna vaccine is for patients aged twelve and over.

Professor Twomey says Australia’s community pharmacies delivered during the pandemic and continue to deliver for patients today.

"We’ve administered more than 11 million vaccinations since the pandemic, so my advice is if you need a vaccination, think pharmacy first,” he said.

Unreliable mobile-radio communications and inadequate first-aid procedures also recently kept a worker who was suffering a stroke waiting 90 minutes for an ambulance to arrive.

“Elecnor is a repeat and reckless offender when it comes to workplace safety on Project EnergyConnect,” ETU national secretary Michael Wright said.

“The fact that the workplace health and safety regulator has boots on the ground to investigate should be ringing alarm bells to Elecnor and Transgrid.

“Building Australia’s largest renewable energy transmission line should be a source of pride, but instead it seems to inspire greed, risking the safety of hundreds of workers.

“Apart from being provided some hi-vis clothing and a vehicle, workers have largely been left to fend for themselves on the lines.

“Workers have been dodging falling objects, and wearing fraying and non-compliant harnesses.

“When something goes wrong, they’ve waited an eternity for help.

“Our members have been denied basic rights, crammed in crib sheds, and are lucky to score a toilet on site.

“This cannot be what the energy transition looks like.”

As the federal government plans to underwrite an extra 32GW of renewable power to drive more investment, while spending $20 billion to modernise the electricity grid as part of the energy transition, the ETU said it was incumbent upon national leaders and developers to protect workers and raise standards.

“This project has had a horror track record for the rights of workers - safety has been back of mind, wages have been suppressed and corners have been cut.

“Exploitation and unsafe working conditions are making it that much harder to attract the workforce we need to transition the nation to net zero,” Mr Wright said.

“Australia needs Project EnergyConnect to secure Australia’s electricity network yet clearly Elecnor and Transgrid don’t care about the security of workers who are building it.

“The ETU is doing everything it can to make sure this essential national project is built safely and to high quality.

“We are getting the job done to stablise the national grid, but we won’t allow it to come at the cost of workers’ lives and livelihoods."

IT doesn’t seem possible that we are into December and attending our - Contributed last meeting for 2023.

President Glenys welcomed the members plus President Des and his wife Lyn from our sister club also Ann Michael.

We then sang the club song and Happy Birthday to those members who have birthdays this month and in January.

Wedding Anniversaries were also mentioned.

It was then down to the business of the day and having completed this it was time for a cuppa which was accompanied by light and dark fruit cake which Thea had made for us and was delicious.

We still had a little time to fill in before lunch and President Glenys asked us to think about memories of past Christmases and what they meant to us.

Most memories went back a long way to family times and also the changes in gifts from then compared to what children receive these days.

President Glenys closed the meeting and we made our way to the Shire Café for our Christmas lunch celebration.

Two long tables were very prettily decorated for us.

Once we were all seated the President had the pleasant duty of making a presentation to Betty Dyke on

Homes boost for regional workers REGIONAL Victorian workers will benefit from a huge boost to affordable housing and accommodation, part of the State Government's investment in supporting local businesses to retain and attract workers.

Member for Ripon Martha Haylett said that the fund will be a game-changer for this region.

“It will help locals secure affordable housing close to their work, help businesses grow, and support our rural and regional communities to thrive long into the future.”

Premier Jacinta Allan and Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney visited the Ararat East Development Zone last week to announce the opening of the $150 million Regional Worker

Page 16 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 13th 2023.

Accommodation Fund for workers in key industries where staff are in demand like agriculture, hospitality and teaching.

Building and construction companies are amongst the wide range of eligible groups that can now apply for grants between $150,000 and $5 million to develop projects that support local businesses to retain and attract workers by delivering affordable housing and accommodation.

The Regional Worker Accommo dation Fund follows the

success of the Ararat East Development Zone – part of the State Government’s $5 million Regional Workforce Pilots initiative – that has supported sewage and other infrastructure connections to develop up to 160 lots at the Greenhill Lake housing estate.

First time homeowners Emily Hanns and Mat Smith are two Ararat locals, working in key local industries and raising their young family, who are benefiting from the pilot – with their new home currently under construction.

the occasion of her 90th birthday and we all sang the birthday song.

We had all received a lucky door prize ticket and these were drawn and gifts given to the lucky winners.

Our main course was then served so things quietened down for awhile.

Dawn and Helen supplied the Christmas music in the back ground which was very pleasant.

Before the dessert the “Bring a gif t/

Receive a gift” were handed out and we then settled back to plum pudding or pavlova.

President Glenys asked the staff to come into the dining room so that we could thank them for the lovely lunch and then we could relax and enjoy the rest of the afternoon as we pleased.

The Probus club wish the community “a very happy and safe Christmas and New Year”.

Cheers until 2024.

New Grants for home-grown creative projects MORE independent artists and creative workers across the state can build their skills and careers, create new work and showcase our local creative talent to a wider audience due to a new round of a grants program.

Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks has announced applications are now open for the Creative Projects Fund, which invests in the development of new home-grown creative work and experiences and helps take them to local, national or international audiences and markets.

Mr Brooks said that the fund provides vital seed funding to bring new ideas to life and to take distinctive and exciting Victorian-made creative products.

“Grants through the fund are an investment in local talent, diverse voices and ideas, and the future strength and vibrancy of our creative industries.”

Grants of $5000 to $20,000 are available to Victorian professional artists, creative practitioners, collectives, groups and organisations working in all creative disciplines – from design to dance, fashion to film, theatre, augmented and virtual technologies, visual art, music, literature and more.

In 2022, the first round of the program supported more than 100 creative projects statewide which have collectively employed 896 individuals – including providing an important boost to creative professionals in early stages of their careers.

These projects included a film by author and filmmaker Santilla Chingaipe; a children’s apparel line celebrating Indigenous Pride by Haus of Dizzy; and a new theatre work by (it’s no) drama, a South Gippsland-based theatre group for people with and without disability.

The Fund supports a wide range of ideas and perspectives, reflecting the diversity of the creative industries and Victoria’s wider community.

It includes dedicated streams for First Peoples and Deaf and Disabled applicants.

Applications are also encouraged from culturally and linguistically diverse, LGBTIQA+ and regionally based creatives.

The Creative Projects Fund invests in the creative people and ideas that fuel the state’s $38.4 billion creative industries, and is an action of the Labor Government’s Creative State 2025 strategy.

Applications for the General, Deaf and Disabled and First Peoples streams open on Thursday 7 December 2023 and will close at 3pm on Thursday 1 February 2024.

For more information or to apply, visit creative.vic.gov.au/funding-opportunities.

Donald’s Riverview Aged Care residents get upgrades OVER the last six months the bedrooms at Riverview have had some upgrades firstly to ensure each resident had their own room.

Acute rooms were considered, logistics planned and quotations sort.

To ensure each resident had their own bedroom, three of the acute rooms were reconfigured to form part of the aged care structure.

This change allowed for some of the residents to have an adjacent ensuite.

Next steps were to secure the area and update floor plans.

The next exciting part was to move the residents and settle them into their new space.

Part of the refurbishment included some furniture replacement.

Resident James commented that the bedside cabinets were very nice.

“I can move it around the room to access my things easily” he said.

Flooring, window furnishings and privacy screens were also updated.

Choosing colour schemes and patterns for new furnishings was very exciting for the Riverview residents and the choice they made worked perfectly.

Sheer and block out blinds replaced heavy patterned drapes.

The outcomes are

modern and easy to maintain.

Resident Ian is very happy.

“The floor is very nice, and the blinds stop it from being so bright in here.”

Kathleen said that the furniture makes it feel so comfortable.

“And like my own” she said.

Each resident has own room Each resident now has their own room and can decorate exactly how they want their room with their own belongings.

To also assist residents with direction and familiar surrounds in their home bright colorful ‘Wayfinding art’ has been placed around the Riverview.

In the lounge area a 60 inch smart TV has been purchased.

Residents can now watch movies whenever they would like and they have more choice of channels that can be incorporated into lifestyle activities.

This area also has new furnishings and a visual fireplace.

Audrey feels that the environment is very homely now.

“The flooring is beautiful and all the blinds and curtains makes our spaces so comfortable.

“We have beautiful

- Contributed artwork on our walls, and kitchen to utilise ourselves, it’s just beautiful.”

The residents at Riverview are also very proud of the beautiful, donated windmill and James and Ian wanted everyone to know how great this windmill is.

“Brings back so many memories” they said.

The Riverview crew is very proud of their home and have made some lovely choices in updating their surrounds.

The facility is tastefully decorated, personalised, warm and comfortable.

Above: The Donald ladies.

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The North Central Directory

Advertise with us... !"#$%&'(")$$*+,-".$"/())"-$$0/"1,0"/('2+3(/"4+.5+,"6.7"8',1%09":51').$,9" ;(00('<%',"1,0"/%''$%,0+,-"1'(1/"www.northcentralbusiness.com.au +/"=('!(3."!$'"#$%>" The North Central News, our locally owned and independent newspaper, has a community-minded focus, with information and news about local issues and events along with comprehensive coverage of local and regional sports and human interest stories.

We are passionate advocates for the local stories of our region, and cover the issues affecting us all. We also play an important role in promoting our great local businesses and organisations, and keeping business local.

Above: Ian.

Above: James.

The North Central Directory is a Local Business Guide connecting our local residents with some of our great local businesses.

The responsive (smartphone friendly) website features a dedicated page for each of our businesses; complete with pictures, video, logo, phone (with Click to Call), fax, street address, email & website addresses, links to social media, opening hours, Google map (with Directions to your Location) and space for a 200 word blurb on each business.

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Above: The windmill brings back memories for James and Ian. NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 13th 2023 - Page 17

The boys take on Horsham THE St. Arnaud Piranah boys, Jesse, Austin, Hamish, Declan, Spencer, Lewis and Leo competed at the Horsham Swim Meet 1 on 10th December 2023.

Leo Kay competed in his first ever swim meet.

This being Leo’s first season with the Piranhas and with only a couple trainings under his belt L eo should be extremely proud of this efforts.

Leo competed in the Boys 8&u free and came 3rd.

Leo also competed in the 12&u free relay and came 3rd.

I’m sure Leo went home with a big smile on his face.

Jesse Amos came 2nd in the Mens 17-29 50m back, breast, fly, free and Mens 100m back and free.

Declan Kay competed in the Boys 11-16 50m fly and free.

Austin Lowe came 1st in the Boys 11-16 50m free.

Lewis Lowe came 3rd in the Boys 11-16 50m fly and 2nd in the Boys 11-12 100m free

Contributed and breast.

Lewis also competed in the 50m back.

Hamish Tannock came 2nd in the Boys 11-16 50m back, breast and the Boys 13-14 100m breast and 3rd in the 100m free.

The Mixed Open Medley relay with Austin, Lewis, Jesse and Hamish came 3rd.

The Mixed 12&u Freestyle relay with Lewis, Leo, Spencer and Declan came 3rd.

The Mixed Open Freestyle relay with Austin, Lewis, Hamish and Jesse came 3rd.

Some excellent results here from the boys!

The next swim meet is the Warracknabeal Swim Meet on the 16th December 2023.

This will be the last meet before the Christmas and New Year Break.

Above: The boys mean business (left to right: Leo Kay, Spencer Kay, Declan Kay, Lewis Lowe, Hamish Tannock, Austin Lowe and Jesse Amos.

St. Arnaud Indoor Bowls - Contributed

Tu e s d a y November

Above: Leo Kay with his bronze.

NDIS change must be led by people with disability THE National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Review is a once-in-a-decade chance to make this critical scheme fit for the future, which will only happen if we have a seat at the table, say people with disability and our organisations.

With the release of the final report following the independent review of the National Disability Insurance Scheme, people with disability, families, supporters, and disability representative organisations, disabled peoples’ organisations and disability advocacy organisations have united in calling on all levels of government to take action to deliver equitable, fair, just and sufficient support for all people with disability.

The NDIS delivers lifesaving and life changing supports for over 600,000 people with disability across Australia.

Many people with disability need and use this support to go to work, to school, and to live in the community.

These supports have changed the lives of people with disability and their families, putting equipment and services in reach for the first time.

They are essential public services.

However, not all people with disability are receiving the supports they need, and those that are find getting

that support is complicated, stressful and often not enough.

The NDIS needs to work better for people with disability and their families.

For people with disability who don’t get NDIS support, support needs to be available in their local community and through fair access to other public services.

Over the past 12 months, thousands of people with disability, their families and supporters, and our organisations have been part of the Review.

We have shared our stories and ideas about how to make sure the NDIS is fit for the future.

We have also shared our stories and solutions with the Disability Royal Commission which released its recommendations recently.

We welcome the public release of the final report of the NDIS Review.

The work must now begin, with people with disability at the table, on a roadmap forward which will ensure people get the support we need, both in the NDIS and in the community.

To make that hap-

pen, people with disability must be at the heart of the implementation.

This means not just consulted, but with a seat at the table.

We are calling for the immediate establishment of a Disability Reform Implementation Council to oversee how both the NDIS Review and the Disability Royal Commission recommendations are made real.

The Council must have people with disability, our families and organisations at the table to share in decision-making.

This is in line with Australia’s Disability Strategy.

We believe that all levels of government must be represented, along with key departments and agencies.

The Council would report directly to National Cabinet and have working groups specialising in key reform areas including education, employment, housing, health and aged care.

There would be a particular focus on ensuring the work of the Council is underpinned by the priority reforms of the National Agreement of Closing the Gap, already agreed to by all governments, in recognition of the

Page 18 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 13th 2023.

Contributed continued marginalisation of First Nations people with disability.

In welcoming the NDIS Review report, we are also clear that continued access to support for people with disability is necessary and non-negotiable.

Any changes to how support is provided, either inside or outside the Scheme, must not lead to any gaps in the support we receive.

We are ready to work together on this.

We call on all governments to take action to make sure people with disability are fully included in this journey, and can be an equal part of the community, including with the essential supports we need.

This statement has been prepared by Australian Federation of Disability Organisations (AFDO) Children and Young People with Disability Australia (CYDA) Disability Advocacy Network Australia (DANA) First Peoples Disability Network Australia (FPDN) Inclusion Australia (IA) National Ethnic Disability Alliance (NEDA) People with Disability Australia (PWDA) Women with Disabilities Australia (WWDA).

28th

At the Annual General Meeting, Dot Baldwin was elected President for the coming year.

Dot moves up to President after being Secretary for many years.

Congratulations Dot on your new role.

Other positions were filled by Flo Andison as Secretary and Marie Craddock remains as Treasurer.

At the conclusion of the business part of the day we then commenced our new bowls year for 2023/2024.

A total of 12 Bowlers made up the four teams with three Bowlers in each team.

First up winners for the new year are Flo Andison (S), Betty Mazucco and Win Battersby, who won all three games with a total of 41 points.

Playing only six ends per game, it was low scoring in all games.

They managed to take the lead early in each game and never looked back, winning their games, 7 to 3 with four ends, 6 to 2 with three ends and 8 to 2 with four ends.

Tuesday 5th December A total of ten bowlers made up the four teams this week, being two teams of three bowlers and two teams of two bowlers.

Back to playing eight ends per game, the winners with 44 points were Lyle Streeter (S) and Aline Deanshaw.

Like last week’s winners, they won all three games.

In the first two games they took the lead early which make it hard for their opponents to catch up.

In the third game, scores were level on the fourth end.

They then took over the lead to win the third game.

Their scores were 9 to 6 with four ends, 10 to 5 with five ends and 9 to 7 with five ends.

Wimmera Mallee Cricket round 8 A Grade Birchip Swans 10/89 (35.4) lost to BrimKSH 6/157 (40) St. Arnaud Saints vs St Marys N/A Wycheproof/Narraport 10/90 (33.5) lost to Donald Jeffcott 2/270 (40) Bye Marnoo B Grade BrimKSH 9/112 (40) lost to Birchip Swans 6/119 (37) Donald Jeffcott 2/68 (16.4) def. Southern Mallee Giants 10/67 (31.4) St Marys vs St. Arnaud Saints N/A Watchem Panthers 7/96 (29) Charlton 10/144 (40) ABANDONED Ladders pts A Grade Donald Jeffcott Brim KSH St. Arnaud Marnoo St. Arnaud Birchip St. Marys Wyche-Narraport

28 24 10 12 10 10 4 2

B Grade Donald Jeffcott Charlton Birchip Watchem Giants St. Marys BrimKSH St. Arnaud

24 16 16 12 10 10 4 0

Mid week Bealiba Pennant Contributed Hall ST. ARNAUD played Wedderburn for Round Indoor 8 of Midweek Pennant. carpet bowls Phil McRae’s team played Andrew Caserta’s team.

St. Arnaud started well being able to take the lead early but a five to Wedderburn put them right back in the game.

The score was 16 all on the 18th end but 12 shots to St. Arnaud on the next 3 ends saw them make a winning break.

St. Arnaud went on to win 32-17 Col Marchment’s team played Alan Jacksons team.

They were completely outclassed on the day.

Many times they were holding shots only to see Wedderburn's skip come in and move the kitty to their bowls.

Wedderburn won 328.

Tom Amos’s team played Laurie Witham's team.

This was the closest game of the day with the lead changing many times during the day.

All players contributed well.

St. Arnaud was unfortunate to go down 19-20.

Final scores St. Arnaud 59 shots 2 points to Wedderburn 69 shots 10 points.

- Contributed

ANOTHER season has drawn to a close and we had a great night with a beautiful dinner at the hall shared by bowlers and partners.

In the overall season’s points the winner was Malcolm Campbell with 64 1/2 points, second was Lyle Streeter on 55 1/2 points and third was Shirley Coburn on 54 points.

This season’s winner of the ‘Sam Whitehead Memorial Trophy’ was Shirley Coburn who pipped Malcolm Campbell in the last round to win by three votes.

President Tiger Coburn proudly presented the trophy to wife Shirley.

We will now enjoy the break and then look forward to resuming in February 2024.

We would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a safe, peaceful new year.

Wedderburn turn the tables ST. ARNAUD Division 1 bowlers had an 18 shot win when they met Wedderburn in the second round of North Central pennant bowls, but last Saturday, in round 9, Wedderburn took their revenge with a solid 8 - Contributed shot win over St. Arnaud.

Wedderburn won 2 of the 3 rinks with Laurie Witham, B. Mondebello, D Stephenson and A. Roberts setting up the win with a 14 shot margin over Phil. McRae, Col Marchment, Graham Simpson and Darren Shepherd.

The St. Arnaud four made a disastrous start, dropping 6 shots on the first end, and then another 6 shots on the 6th end.

They tried hard to regain this lost ground, winning 13 ends to 12, but could not score heavily enough.

Steve Zsigmond, Glendon Hancock, Greg McNally and Tom Amos started well, leading Allan Jackson, A Casota, A Holt and C. Mills 6-0 but dropped 5 shots on the next end for Wedderburn to get back on equal terms.

It was a tough contest from thereon, and the Wedderburn four grabbed a one shot win, scoring 3 shots on the last end.

The only winners for St. Arnaud were Terry McSwain, Ashley Dyke, Maurie Wood and Tony Marland, leading Damian Mason, N. Holt, W.Roberts and R Guelfo 9-2 after 5 ends, and going to a 21-6 lead at afternoon tea.

The Wedderburn four managed to reduce this margin, gaining a vital 4 shots over the last 2 ends.

Wedderburn weathered the wet well A couple of showers, a drop in temperature and an increase in the wind, towards the end of the match changed

the pleasant conditions, slowing the wet greens considerably.

Scores were level at 43 shots each after 15 ends but Wedderburn finished the stronger.

St. Arnaud won more ends than Wedderburn 39-36 but some heavy scores won the day.

Match details: T. McSwain 25 def D.Mason 18 S. Zsigmond 20 lost to A. Jackson 21 P. McRae 18 lost to L. Witham 32.

St. Arnaud 63 shots were defeated by Wedderburn 71 shots – 2 points to 10 points.

Other Division 1 results: Charlton 51 shots lost to Country Club 76 shots – 0 points to 12 points Wycheproof 87 shots defeated Donald 73 shots – 10 points to 2 points Donald Golf 58 shots defeated Boort 56 shots – 8 points to 4 points.

Ladder pts 1. St. Arnaud 76 2. Wycheproof 67 3. Wedderburn 66 4. Donald Golf 61 5. Country club 52 6. Boort 49 7. Charlton 36 8. Donald 25 Division 2

We d d e r b u r n B i g Winners St. Arnaud Division 2 bowlers were over whelmed by Wedderburn, losing all 3 rinks, by 39 shots overall.

Brian Eccles, Terence Robertson, Marg. McRae and Jason Barrow were down 0-12 after 4 ends, got back up to 10-12, but L.Holt’s

St. Arnaud Country Club Pennant bowls COUNTRY Club Division 1 bowlers playing Charlton reversed the result from Round two, winning all three rinks by a margin of 25 shots.

Congratulations to Faye Rodger and Rhonda Pole they appear to be acquitting themselves very well playing in the ones.

Bill Rodger defeated Ken North 31-17 Simon Elliott defeated Lyn Southwell 25-15 Jason Abbott defeated Kevin Willey

Solution No. 10118 C B A L E S L A S H T R I E D R O B I N I E R U R A L B O A R C A M E L S I L E N C E I M I T A T E D R T D T T O R S A L E S E Y E L E T D E L U D E R O S E S M U D R C K V L I N I M E N T D E L E T E S M O D E S U S E R T U N E S V P N E S T S N E W E L E A S T S E A T S R

- Contributed 20-19 76 shots to 51 12 points to nil Division 2 had a great game with the scores being level with one end to play.

Phil Elliott’s team held game with one bowl from the Charlton skipper to come, you can guess what happened, he converted and won the game for Charlton.

John Needs defeated Eiley Rosewall 31-16 Phil Elliott lost to Michael Preston 18-20 Hugh Craddock lost to Wayne Keenan 16-32 65 shots to 68 2 points to 10

four scored 5 shots on the 16th end and won well.

Lloyd Goddard, Kerryn Dyke, Anne McNally and Frank James were down 5-20 against B. Hargreaves at the tea break, and were never in the match.

Gary Shinners, Peter Duncan, Garry Smith and Craig Cheesman were down 5 - 10 against I. Hall, and won only 8 of the 25 ends.

Match details: B. Eccles 18 lost to L. Holt 28 L. Goddard 15 lost to B. Hargreaves 26 G. Shinners 11 lost to I. Hall 29 St. Arnaud 44 shots lost to Wedderburn 83 shots - 0 points to 12 points.

Other results: Charlton 68 shots def Country Club 65 shots 10 points to 2 points Wycheproof 86 shots def Donald 45 shots – 11 points to 1 point Donald Golf 61 shots def Boort 29 shots – 12 points to 0 points.

Ladder pts 1. Wycheproof 86 2. Charlton 75 3. Donald Golf 72 4. Wedderburn 70 5. Country Club 46 6. St. Arnaud 42 7. Boort 30 8. Donald 11 Next week’s games December 16th round 10 St. Arnaud v Country Club Wedderburn v Donald Golf Boort v Wycheproof Donald v Charlton.

Above: Winners of the Christmas Tournament from Wycheproof (left to right) Lynette Nicholls, Carol Jones, Faye Wittner and Raymond Wittner.

Christmas Tournament at Country Club S T. A R N AU D Country Club held their Christmas tournament on Thursday 7th of December.

A great feature of the day was having 12 teams competing.

With little rain the tournament was a great success.

Players enjoyed a lovely lunch.

Teams played 3 games, one game of 12 ends and 2 games of 10 ends.

Congratulations to the winners Wycheproof with 2 interstate players Faye and Raymond Wittner from Queensland, Carol Jones and Lynette Nicholls.

Runners-up were a team from Donald Kelvin Adamson, Beryl Milne, Brenda Brennan and Bill Heaglty.

Above: Runners-up from Donald (left to right) Kelvin Adamson, Beryl Milne, Bill Heaglty and Brenda Brennan.

Melton success for Mick Inside running

by Archie

THE former Mildura trained pacer “Bizzness Class” is relishing the opportunity to race on the bigger size tracks down south and on Saturday night bought up a hat trick of wins when it was successful at Melton.

From the 11 times winning mare “Angel In Flight” the 4yo gelded son of colonial stallion “Bling It On” is trained at Charlton by Michael Gadsden and has had 11 starts for his new stable for 5 wins and 2 placings.

The winning driver was Ararat’s Michael Bellman who trained “Angel In Flight” for a short time in 2008 winning races with her at Terang and Ballarat.

Above: Melton winner “Bizzness Class” with driver Michael Bellman, trainer Michael Gadsden and Samantha Button who along with Mildura Club President Allan MacDonald bred the winner.

- Photo. Stuart McCormick.

The other local winner for the week was “Shaq” for John Tormey and owner Kevin Clark who won at Swan Hill on Wednesday.

Completing his two week spell in France with a race drive at Vincennes at 11.50pm AEDT on Thursday Ryan Sanderson was

back driving at Gunbower on Sunday afternoon finishing third on “Travel Bug” in the Trotters Cup. Bendigo race tonight

(13/12), with a few locals going around, and on Friday the Charlton Club have their final meeting for the season.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 13th 2023 - Page 19

Page 20 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 13th 2023.

SPORT

HOME DELIVERY 5495 1055

Navarre U13s Cricket up and running AND they’re off – the Green and Gold Aussie boys are doing well!

Soaked in patriotism with the Aussie male cricket team winning the World Cup in the 50 Over game in India, our local lads have been doing really well in Navarre too.

After thirteen dormant years, Navarre Cricket Club – Under 13’s - has been reborn!

Thirteen terrific young men are playing.

Two leading the charge are Landsborough local lads - Archer Crouch and Charlie Parker.

•Archer is blessed with speed with his bowling.

This is due to his height, strength, skill and determination.

Archer bowled two overs in our last game this past week and took two wickets for no runs.

His batting has improved too •Charlie is a gritty batsman who scored his first boundary in the last game, a hook shot for four runs and hasn’t been dismissed in three games of batting so far in the season.

Charlie’s bowling is improving too *** Trivia: It is worth mentioning, George Greenaway joined the team after twelve months of being in a wheel chair and then on crouches due to a broken leg.

In his first game he completed two terrific run outs and took two wickets with his bowling.*** The Navarre Under 13 boys are: Morgan Greenaway - Sam Greenaway Henry Small Riley Hope – Charlie Hope Phraze Dougherty Zeke Jamieson - Finn Evans - Kenna Lorusso Ned Ezard - Archer Crouch - Charlie Parker - George Greenaway Coaches: • Coached by Cory (“Now listen up you

- by Paul Parker

young lads”) Hope • With able support by assistant coaches: - Gary/Joe/Pop (“I set alight to my own paddock”) Hannett - Paul (“Show me you can block that good ball”) Parker - Geoff (“I went fishing on game day because the Murray had flooded”) Jamieson Plus: • Equipment purchasing, care and upkeep by Zoe (“Put all the balls back in the bags you boys”) Crouch • Scoring compiled diligently by Jodie (“Don’t bother me, just download the app and check the score yourself ”) Cross ***Trivia: Rumour has it, Jodie was late for one game as she rushed out of home and was seen arriving at the club in a Pomonal Footy jumper*** •Bowling net repair and maintenance by Tom (“I think I’ve got an Allen key in the back of my ute”) Small *** Trivia: Some of the kids for the opposition look older than the age range. One of the Buangor Under 13 players was seen turning up late as they drove their ute into the ground, holding a tinny, and spruiking “I had to vote before the game started”.*** Seriously, please come support us in the new year.

We’re in the top four.

With six games played, we’ve won two and lost two.

One game was washed out and the other we won due to the

Above: Back row: (left to right) Morgan Greenaway - Henry Small - Archer Crouch - Kenna Lorusso - Zeke Jamieson - Ned Ezard - Phraze Dougherty.

Front row: Riley Hope - Finn Evans - George Greenaway - Sam Greenaway - – Charlie Hope - Charlie Parker. Coach: Cory Hope. default of the opposition.

We usually have a BBQ after the home games.

We’re all having great fun.

We hope to see you at Navarre in the new year.

Last Sunday: Navarre: 5 out for 129.

Buangor: all out for 52

Good performances a feature of Saturday’s tennis BOTH St. Arnaud lawn tennis teams (St. Arnaud and Kara Kara) performed strongly on Saturday to record one match win and a second match close defeat.

With rain threatening it was pleasing to see both matches completed – St. Arnaud defeating Charlton, at Charlton and Kara Kara an ever so close loss to Donald, at Donald.

St. Arnaud was strengthened with the return of Ladies Club C h a m p i o n , Tr a c e y Graham and with Thomas Watts assisting as a top section ladies team player for the day the Ladies Doubles section provided an important contribution, albeit a loss 30-36 games.

Earlier the Men’s Doubles team at near full strength with the inclusion of the effer-

vescent Duncan Jackson for his first match of the season was too much of a handful for its undermanned Charlton opposition winning all but one set to record a comprehensive win 4517 games.

Three sets winners Bailey Durward, Tr a c e y Graham, Thomas Watts and Duncan Jackson ensured that St. Arnaud would sneak home in the Mixed Doubles 43-37 games and overall victory 118-90 games (8-2 points).

A tie in the Ladies Doubles section, 45 games apiece, was the highlight of the

- Contributed Donald v Kara Kara clash, although the total difference of just nine games for the Men’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles was testament to a very close result with Donald inching ahead to record a 132-127 games (7-3 points) match win.

Don Erwin, as a “fill in” for the women’s team, was the sole three set winner for Kara Kara.

Next Saturday, the final round for 2023, will be a home derby with the two St. Arnaud teams facing off with Kara Kara keen to at least retain second spot on the NCLTA ladder, while St Arnaud strive to move higher than its current seventh position.

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