17th November 2021

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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 NOVEMBER 17th 2021.

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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Did you see the Aurora Australis in St. Arnaud sky?

AURORAS occur when fully charged particles burst from the sun and create a solar wind.

This draws the wind to the North and South poles and can cause a magical dancing lights display.

Mostly seen in Tasmania and Southern Victoria, we need a very big solar storm before it is able to reach as far as St. Arnaud.

The gauges on the Aurora Australis page were looking very good on Thursday 4th November, so Kylie Heyman grabbed her camera to try her luck.

Not expecting to see anything, Kylie took a few test shots and was happy to see some beautiful colours in the sky.

Two minutes later she could actually see the beams and was so excited she did a happy dance.

Kylie was extra lucky to also get a sneaky little meteor in one of her shots.

This particular storm was one of the strongest seen in the last 20 years and the colours were dancing in the sky for most of the night.

Above: The lights of the Southern Aurora in the St. Arnaud sky.

- Photo: Kylie Heyman Crystal Dreams Photography.

The beams just come and go and the colours can change slightly too.

To see the aurora with the naked eye most of the time it

would just look like a white mist.

The camera actually sees more colours than we do, so seeing the images on the camera screen is just breathtaking.

Warren returned as Mayor CR Daryl Warren was returned unopposed as Mayor of Buloke Shire Council at a Council Meeting held on Wednesday 10th November 2021.

Cr Warren will now undertake his second term as Mayor after being appointed for a one-year term.

“I am extremely humbled that my fellow Councillors have put their faith in me to lead them for the next 12 months and to represent the residents of the Buloke Shire”, said Mayor Cr Warren.

In his first term on Council, Cr Alan Getley was elected as Deputy Mayor at the meeting, also for a oneyear term.

Council has set its meeting agenda for the upcoming year with Council Meetings scheduled to be held in

Wycheproof on the second Wednesday of each month and Councillor Briefings listed for all towns across the year on the first and third Wednesdays of each month, excluding January.

Also adopted at the meeting was the Appointment of Delegates, which allocates Councillors as representatives to a range of Committees, Groups and Boards.

The appointment to these external bodies forms a key part of Council’s partnership work and collaboration with community and other stakeholders.

Above: Buloke Shire Councillors after the election of the new Mayor of the next 12 months (left to right) Cr David Vis, Cr Bronwyn Simpson, Cr David Pollard, Cr Daryl Warren (mayor), Cr Alan Getley (deputy) Cr Carolyn Stewart and Cr Graeme Milne.

Remembrance Day service

Left: On an unusually cool November day the young and the old gathered to pay their respects at the cenotaph in St. Arnaud.

See page 9 for the St. Arnaud Primary School Remembrance Day ceremony.

Council ‘affirmation’ is an embarrassment THE definition of reconciliation is the reestablishment of friendly relations. It is the process of two people or groups in a conflict agreeing to make amends or come to a truce.

Simply recognizing a past wrong is not about true reconciliation. The ‘affirmation’ at the commencement of a Northern Grampians Shire Meeting imparts the feeling that it is a grudgingly given acknowledgement of First Australians but it does not reach the sentiment that is required for reconciliation.

The custom of ‘welcome to country’ or an ‘acknowledgement to country’ is said to have been practiced in our indigenous communities long before colonization but has been revived in recent times.

Although television presenter and actor Ernie Dingo believes he gave resurgence to the practice in the 1970s when he gained permission from elders to share the practice with nonAboriginal people.

However, with the Native Title Movement of the 1990s and the Mabo decision, there was a wave of acknowledgement that the indigenous people had suffered with colonization and that reconciliation must be made in order for all Australians to be seen and treated as equal.

It is ironic that the first appearances of these changes came from local councils, albeit in New South Wales, where many started raising the Aboriginal flag and there was a formal recognition of the traditional owners at council-run events.

Acknowledgement became reconciliation, about strengthening relationships between First Australians and non-Indigenous peoples, for the benefit of all Australians. Reconciliation is not simply about the rights of First Australians, that they be respected, but that they are championed

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

Ph.: (03) 5495 1055; Fax.: (03) 5495 1937 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 1,700 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.

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DISCLAIMER The views and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those held by the publisher or editor. The publisher and staff accept no liability for injury or losses which may occur as a result of information presented in this publication. © Copyright 2021 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.

Editorial in all the places that matter. Reconciliation is understanding and accepting the wrongs of the past and their impact on First Australians and making amends for past policies and practices that ensure that these wrongs are never repeated.

Wi t h w i d e s p r e a d a c c e p t a n c e o f Fi r s t Australians’ place in Australian history, came teaching such in our schools and it is that acknowledgement of history that will educate and ensure that the wrongs are never be repeated.

By the use of a poorly worded ‘affirmation’ it indicates volumes about the attitudes behind the words. The Northern Grampians Shire Council commences its meetings with We recognize the traditional owners of the land.

We are inspired by the early pioneers and by those who gave their lives for our country. We now ask God’s blessing on our deliberations and on our commitment to build a better lifestyle and environment.

There is power in reconciliation, rather than simply an acknowledgement, despite the magnitude of pain or misunderstanding which is usual in the level of reconciliation provided.

It is seen as the highest level of atonement between individuals or groups and the cornerstone of the reconciliation efforts in Australia embodies a spirit of goodwill, mutual respect and recognition of the effects of colonisation on Aboriginal people This Council’s ‘affirmation’ is an insult to the indigenous people of this country and falls well short of what is the norm now. Most Boards or Councils usually include ‘I pay my respects to any Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people who are present here today’.

The Pyrenees Shire Council’s reads I acknowledge the people past and present of the Wadawurrung, Dja Dja Wurrung, Eastern Maar and Wotjobaluk tribes, whose land forms the Pyrenees Shire. We pay our respect to the customs, traditions and stewardship of the land by the elders and people of these tribes on whose land we meet today.

The Northern Grampians’ statement is not a welcome but a tokenistic acknowledgement of the traditional ownership of the land, which screams ‘we don’t believe there were any injustices done or any amends that require to be made’.

This council is inspired only by the early pioneers and soldiers that gave their lives, and while those people are worthy of our admiration, this council does not lead with any sentiment that sees wrongs that were done by colonization.

If reconciliation is about reestablishment of friendly relations, then this will not do it, this statement is not about reconciliation. This Council has a long way to go to catch up with the rest of Australia.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK Here is the land, here is the sky.

Here are your friends and here are mine.

We stand together hand in hand, to respect and acknowledge the traditional owners of this land.

Queanbeyan and District Preschool Association

WEEKLY RAINFALL ST. ARNAUD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17.7 RAINFALL FOR NOVEMBER . . . . .107.8 YEARLY RAINFALL TO DATE . . . . .572.4 CHARLTON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13.4 RAINFALL FOR NOVEMBER . . . . . .61.4 YEARLY RAINFALL TO DATE . . . . .413.6

Page 2 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 17th 2021.

To the Editor

Clinical Lab’s shortcomings not being addressed Dear Editor It is no secret that there has been significant concern in the community regarding the service provided by Clinical Labs and the nature of the facilities it occupies in the St. Arnaud Hospital complex since its took over the pathology role from St John of God. Recent anecdotal evidence from my own friends and neighbours and my own experience confirm that the issues in question, although conveyed to Clinical Labs on a number of occasions, are not being addressed and are impacting the timely provision of medical services to many residents, including those with serious health conditions.

Of particular concern is the plight of those of advanced age for whom the provision of basic comfort and prompt attention is seriously lacking.

As with many regional towns and centres, the aged demographic is often the largest by a significant margin.

Fundamental issues requiring urgent attention include: • The lack of suitable waiting facilities prior to opening hours or for overflow situations to ensure people can maintain their place in the queue while being protected from weather extremes and having appropriate seating available, particularly where they rely on walkers or other devices simply to stand.

• Recurring staffing failures resulting in an inability to meet advertised hours of operation thus impacting the necessary provision of results to referring doctors in a timely fashion and greatly inconveniencing those required to rise very early and travel considerable distances within the facility’s large catchment area to access its services.

• The absence of any formal triaging of patients to ensure that those who are fasting and/or who, by reason of age or health condition, are ill-equipped to wait long periods for attention (and who under current arrange-

ments often have to leave before being seen) are given appropriate priority.

The overall situation is not helped by the fact that hospital management is apparently not responsible in any way as to how the facility operates nor by the absence of any nuanced approach by Clinical Labs to the condition of individual clients or their

expressed concerns.

The failure of the staff member on duty to respond meaningfully to concerns I expressed on a recent visit regarding the lack of seating for a particularly frail older woman and the presence of what looked like a large bloodstain on the waiting room floor are but two examples.

• Cont. next page.

North Central News

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ACROSS Of the kidneys Shorebird Make known Receiver of stolen goods Key Rate of progress Transposes Lacking discipline Dry and withered Finds the place of Deer’s meat Amended Remaining Moved quickly Enthusiasts Advantage Interior In an attitude of wonder Pure Large antelopes Agitates

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DOWN Thespian Mourn Arbitrators Water pitchers Curve Liquor dregs Say again Pleased Annoys Of the nervves Heavenly bodies Made eff f ort ff Omit in pronunciation Distress call Army off f icers ff Man’s name Slave Imitates deceptively Snake Inward feeling Sly Makes lace Obtain

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Watercolour Workshops connecting Charlton FOLLOWING on from the recent success of the Charlton Neighbourhood House’s Watercolour Workshops, a group of participants have decided to keep the activity going later this month.

On Saturday 27th November from 10:00am, Charlton residents are welcome to get together to paint, sketch or draw in whatever medium they wish, all in an informal outdoor setting.

Well-known local artist Kate Giakimis will again be happy to give any tips to the participants, but people are encouraged to just enjoy the time explor-

ing their interest in a friendly relaxed setting.

This activity continues the great success that the Charlton Neighbourhood House’s Connecting Creativity sessions have enjoyed using funding from Buloke Shires CASI fund.

To be part of this fun activity suitable for all ages, please call the Neighbourhood House on 0473 759 456 to

book your place.

No charge, but please provide your own art supplies.

A hat, water, chair and water for your artwork is suggested, while proof of double vaccination will be required.”

Right: Group of participants from the previous session of Wa t e r c o l o u r Workshops

Police Station Defibrillator now accessible to community TWO defibrillators purchased in 2014/15 in a joint project between St. Arnaud Lions Club and St. Arnaud Community Action Network have now been made accessible to the community around the clock.

Above: (left to right) Jane Sutherland secretary of SCAN and Sgt Tim Thomson at the St. Arnaud Police Station.

Currently these defibrillators are positioned in Weir’s IGA and the St. Arnaud Police station.

St Arnaud Community Action Network, was approached by St. Arnaud Neighbourhood Watch representatives

Glenda Bigmore and Shirley Boles who were wanting to fund a project with monies that the group had raised in the past.

The idea of making the defibrillators 24 hour accessible had been suggested to SCAN by our local

To the Editor • From prev. page.

If these deficiencies continue to remain unaddressed more town residents will feel obliged to travel further afield for pathology services and this will presumably further compromise their need for prompt medical attention.

I raised these matters with the relevant company supervisor but was told it all came down to an inability to secure sufficient numbers of qualified staff and left with the impression that management were not treating the issues as particularly serious and that it was unlikely anything would be done about them in the short to medium term.

I and those for whom I write believe it is now necessary for the regional health authorities to take responsibility for ensuring the issues in question are appropriately dealt with so that the provision of high quality pathology services targeted to local requirements will continue to underpin fundamental health services in the greater St Arnaud area.

Concerned St. Arnaud resident (Name and address supplied)

On behalf of outraged Victorians Dear Editor, The outpouring of anger at the Premier’s latest pandemic power grab speaks volumes.

I’ve been inundated by thousands of distressed Victorians outraged at new legis-

Ambulance officers in the past, and with the funds this has been able to happen.

Two alarmed cases have been purchased which will be mounted outside Weiir’s IGA and the St. Arnaud Police station.

Although St. Arnaud Neighbourhood Watch is no longer active in St. Arnaud, in their previous roles they worked closely with Victoria Police in the work of

crime prevention and Community safety initiatives.

Victoria Police wishes to thank St. Arnaud Neighbourhood Watch and SCAN for their generous donations which will benefit the community for years to come.

Jane Sutherland (Secretary SCAN) has worked together with Sergeant Thomson and Rod Notting to see this project completed.

~Check us out on facebook~ lation Daniel Andrews recently rammed through the Labor-controlled lower house of State Parliament.

The legislation, if passed by the upper house, will give the Victorian Premier of the day the power to control the lives and livelihoods of all Victorians.

This Bill allows the Premier to make

Police Report

St. Arnaud Driving while suspended

a statewide pandemic declaration with the power to suspend people’s rights – even when there’s no trace of disease in our state.

Labor’s Bill has no mechanism for the Parliament to have any oversight of the government’s decisions.

When one of the state’s top lawyers says the “Stasi police would have been more than happy with the range of powers” this Bill confers, all Victorians should be worried.

On Monday 1st November 2021 St. Arnaud Police intercepted a male in his 30s on Melbourne Road in relation to driving whilst suspended and driving an unroadworthy vehicle.

The male’s vehicle was subsequently impounded for 30 days at a cost of $2,375.

He will receive a summons to attend court at a later date.

The Nationals vehemently opposed the Andrews Government’s Public Health and Wellbeing Amendm e n t ( Pa n d e m i c Management) Bill 2021 when it was voted on last week.

Weapon seized at court house

There’s some good news: the Bill is yet to go before the upper house, so it’s not too late to have your say.

On Thursday 11th November, St. Arnaud Police responded to a male in his 40’s who allegedly attempted to carry a weapon into the St Arnaud Magistrates’ Court.

The male was arrested and assisted police with enquiries before being released on summons to appear in court at a later date.

Police wish to remind the public that it is an offence under the Court Security Act to carry any type of weapon onto court premises.

I’m urging all regional Victorians to speak up against the Premier’s power grab by visiting w w w. l a b o r s p o w e r grab.com.au

This is not about whether you like or d i s l i ke Daniel Andrews. It’s about the unlimited power handed to just one individual with no checks or balances.

Peter Walsh Leader of The Nationals Member for Murray Plains

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NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 17th 2021 - Page 3

St. Arnaud 100 Years Ago - 11th – 17th November 1921 Armistice Day

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Friday was the third anniversary of the signing of the armistice between the Allied Powers and Germany.

At 11am the fire bell tolled and two minutes silence was observed, followed by bugler Summerfield [ex AIF] sounding the Last Post from the tower of the Town Hall.

The young people of the Methodist Guild held a ‘National Night’ to commemorate the Armistice anniversary at their weekly meeting

Annual Convent Concert A highlight of the evening was a special guest appearance by Miss Gertrude Healy a violinist recently returned from her studies on the Continent and in London.

The Convent orchestra consisting of 20 children played operatic selections, 17 boys performed action songs, and a chorus of 52 girls and 3 boys performed ‘Verdi’.

There was also Morris dancing, and an operetta, ‘Dolls Evening at Home’ by 23 girls and 10 boys.

The children in the operetta were, [girls] M and E and S Kelly, M Burchell, U Bray, M and R Hoye, A Ryan, G Feeny, K Langdon, M O’Donnell, M Bourke, T Pickthall, E and L McErlain, K McKew, N McPhee, K Silva, D Scarce, D and M Halfhide L and A Ward, [boys] P Fay, B Davidson, C and R McPhee, V Travaglia, C Silva, F McErlain, J Feeny, T and J Daily

Mining

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The Welcome Nelson Mining Company purchased a near new 10 head of stampers and housing at Moliagul, plus a practically new set of poppet legs, winding plant, boiler and other necessary machinery at Bloomfield owned

by George Deeble.

North of the old Bristol Reef, Hugh

McKenzie has found a reef 5 ft wide, making bigger as it goes down and prospects from ½ to 1 ounce per ton, right across the reef and 200 ft in length. George Johnson has pegged out the adjoining claim.

Engagement Miss Lydia McNally, daughter of Mr and Mrs Mathew McNally and Mr Albert Turner, son of Mr and Mrs J Turner, both families are from Moyne.

Deaths Mrs Annie Robinson died at Nurse Peters Private Hospital, age 60 years, leaving her husband David and three sons. Annie, nee Bennett was married at Bung Bong near Avoca and settled in Berrimal 30 years ago.

Mrs Mar y Ann McKay of Tempy, died at the St Arnaud Hospital age 51 years, after contracting pneumonia when visiting town for the Back-To celebrations.

She was born at Creswick and came to St. Arnaud when age 4 years with her parents Mr and Mrs John Willis.

Her father, who was a boot maker in North Western Road died in 1901 age 74 years.

Mar y married William McKay and they lived in St. Arnaud until 14 years ago when they moved to the Mallee where they raised 2 sons and 2 daughters.

She was buried in the St. Arnaud in the same grave as two McKay babies, Mary Harriett who died in 1907 age 6 days and Constance Ellen who died 1897 age 14 months.

Mrs Charlotte McDonald died at her Winjallock residence age 64 years and was buried in the Navarre cemetery beside her husband William who died in May last year.

Charlotte, who was born at Warren Ponds,

married at Geelong when age 28 years and leaves 3 daughters and 2 sons.

Another son Sgt David McDonald of Fifth Battalion, AIF was killed at Pozieres 25-7-1916 age 20 years.

Accident Mr H Howell, employed at Grant’s blacksmiths suffered a nasty gash to his leg when he was shoeing a restless horse

Cricket St. Arnaud ‘B’ team 101 defeated St. Arnaud ‘A’ team 64 with the most runs for the ‘B’ team by H Rowe 38 and for the ‘A’ team W Williams 31.

Tennis Kooreh 56 defeated Gooroc 46 and Swanwater West 101 defeated Avon Plains 54.

Rifle Shooting Traynors Lagoon 456 defeated St.

- By Heather Pritchard

Arnaud 450 with highest scores for Traynors Lagoon J Cunningham 67 and J Clarke 59 and for St. Arnaud A Mayman 48 and E Tucker 47.

Lost Mr J Campbell of Avon Plains has lost a draught filly and a light yearling filly.

Sales At the St. Arnaud horse sale 91 draught and light horses were sold, with the top prices of £36-15-0 and £30-150 paid for 5-year-old draught mares owned

by J Amarnt.

Other prices for draught horses were, James Tobin gelding £26, H B Vanrenen 8year old gelding £28, W P McCahon pair light 3 year olds £40, L Hudson 4 year old gelding £30, J Rinaldi 3 year old light filly £275-9 and D McLeod 7 year old mare £33.

Weather Friday very hot 100 º

St. Arnaud 40 Years Ago - November 1981 Engagements

- By Heather Pritchard

Merima Uveric and Geoff Jackson.

Natalie Hucul and Bernie McGuane.

Marcia Forster and Phillip Hoe. Greg McGurk and Leonie Bray Jill Johannes and Peter Spark

Neil and Nola Supple nee Cain a daughter Kerry Maree Brian and Sue Dixon nee Caine a daughter Tace Maree Jeff and Karen Cox nee Wilde a son Jason David

21st Birthdays

Weddings Helen Thurston and Wayne Bannister.

Lorraine McKenny and Colin Rogers.

Karen Raeburn and Peter Hewitt.

Arlene Thomas and Alan Darrell.

Births Gary and Debbie Coghlan nee Robinson a son Benjamin John.

Ken and Julie McGurk nee Smith a son Warren Henry.

Stuart and Helen Hutton a son Clem James.

Greg and Marilyn Murray nee Coates, a daughter Jodie Belinda Brian and Leonie Bird nee Lanyon a daughter Emily Clare Greg and Helen Polkinghorne nee Coates, a son Dale Gregory

Brenda Lee and Gayle Douglas.

Deaths Mary Gibbs nee McKenna.

Annie Beatrice McGoldrick nee Smith age 90 years.

Minnie Ann Buttimer age 99 years and 8 months.

Violet Rothesay Moss age 84 years.

Reginald Charles Wandel age 78 years.

Ann McKinnon age 92 years.

Rotary Club Three exchange students from Japan, South Africa and Holland were introduced to the crowd at the Rotary International Night held in the Liberty Hall.

Rotary members dressed as Dutch, Swiss, Scots, Spaniards and Vikings.

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Page 4 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 17th 2021.

Assorted Vikings with one captured Dutchman and a Swiss, who should have been yodelling at his own camp further down the Hall.

Above: Who can name these Rotary members dressed as Dutch, Swiss, Scots, Spaniards and Vikings at the Rotary International Night?

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NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 17th 2021 - Page 5

Page 6 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 17th 2021.

Above: (left to right) Rob Williams congratulates Jason Burke on taking over the glazing part of his business

Keeping glass and engraving in St. Arnaud ROB Williams who is retiring from running the Williams Joinery and Glass business, has sold two parts of his business and ensured that the unique product and services of the business are retained for St. Arnaud and district.

Tony Marland has purchased the trophies and engraving service part of the business and Jason Burke is taking on the glass and glazing area.

Rob said that he is retiring and building a house out of town.

“I wish each of the blokes the best of luck

in their new ventures and I hope that the people of St. Arnaud continue to support them.”

Jason who currently also undertakes maintenance at the Secondary School and has a carpet cleaning business is looking forward to the challenge

and pleased to be a b l e t o ke e p t h e glazier role in the town.

Tony who is also adding to a growing list of roles with work at the and the North Central News, is still sifting through all the stock that he has acquired from Rob.

Above: Tony Marland has taken on the engraving part of the Williams business.

Solar challenge motors along ST. ARNAUD Solar shop owner Luke Hanley no sooner opened his new store in Napier Street than its beautiful layout was inundated with the floods that took hold in town recently.

Despite this set back Luke is adamant that the campaign he has set is steaming ahead.

With 2 bookings and several more at quote stage, Luke is pleased with its progress.

With a total of 15 bookings for solar systems required by Christmas Luke has promised that the St. Arnaud Community Resource Centre will receive a full system of solar for their operations.

The sudden windfall for the centre has lightened spirits tremendously, as a solar system will drastically reduce overheads so that more funds can be put towards supporting the people of this town and district.

COUGH OR COVID COUGH? The only way to be sure is with a test at the first sign of any symptom.

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NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 17th 2021 - Page 7

A Century of history of Emu Memorial Hall THE discovery of gold at Salter's Hill in 1858 led to the development of the settlement of Emu, first known as 'Kooroc'.

The Kooroc State School opened in January 1878 and a new and larger school was built in 1884.

In those early years the local school became the meeting place for the community, but it would be another 43 years before the Emu residents’ hopes for a community Hall became a reality.

It was during the First World War, when the country was brimming with patriotic fervour, that a strong determination grew within the community to erect a Public Hall.

The St. Arnaud Mercury reported on 12th April 1919 under ‘Emu News’ that the ladies of Emu had met and formed a Ladies Guild to raise funds to build a Hall.

With Mrs Watson elected President, Mrs J Jones as Vice President, Mrs Hatters as Secretary and Miss Graco as Treasurer, they met weekly and a large number of local women joined the Guild.

Many would have been mothers, wives, sisters or sweethearts of local men who had enlisted and fought for their country.

The Hall was to be dedicated in their honour.

In September 1919 the Mercury reported that a monster meeting of local residents was held at the State School to appoint a Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer for the Mechanics Institute to be erected at Emu. Chairman was Mr. J. Jones, Secretary was Mr. W. Kelly, Treasurer was Mr. J. Chivers, other committee members were: Mr Tilly, J Clark, R Dawes, F Bayles, V Rinaldi and E Bicknell.

On 18th February 1920 the Mercur y reported that a meeting was held to choose a site for the Hall and it was agreed that the Memorial Hall would be erected on the Recreation Reserve.

At that time Hall receipts in hand amounted to £120 leaving £30 more to come in.

Half an acre was excised from the Recreation Reserve to become the Hall site and although the building was built in 1921, the site wasn't surveyed out until September 1922 and

was finally gazetted in February 1923.

When researching for the ‘Back to Emu’ in 2011, the committee was unable to find out the actual cost of the Hall or who in fact erected the building, but it was finally built in 1921 and officially opened on 4th November of that year.

The official opening on Friday 4th November 1921 was a resounding success with the Hon J.W. Pennington declaring the Hall open, and commending the people of Emu for their achievement in erecting such a fine building in memory of their brave soldiers.

As a result of the Bazaar and Ball held that day the Hall Committee and Ladies Guild expected a profit of over £90 which would more than clear the liability on the Hall with any money left over to be devoted towards paying for the piano which had been secured for the building.

At last the community had a Hall which was put to good use for many years to come. It became the heart of the community where everyone came together to worship, relax, reunite, celebrate, welcome home, farewell, commiserate or help one another whatever the occasion demanded.

Up until ‘All Saints’ Church was built in 1934, Church Services were held in the hall.

The Methodists worshipped on the 1st Sunday of the month (a morning service) while the Anglicans had the 2nd Sunday (an afternoon service).

In June 1925 the Mercury reported "that the residents of Emu, through the generous assistance of the people of the neighbouring districts, had managed to complete their Hall”.

The work of lining the inside of the building with pine boards and installation of ventilators was finished by the Contractors Messrs E. Berry and H. Postle at a cost of £110".

In 1937 Hall Charges were set as follows:- Political Meetings 5/-; Half Night Entertainments 7/6; Pictures 12/6; Ordinary Meetings 1/-; all Church Services free of charge, if light was used a charge of 1/-

The Hall Keeper was to be paid 1/6 for ordinary entertainments and 5/- for pictures, for cleaning etc.

As the years passed there was always maintenance to be done.

The Committee met regularly and often organised fund raising events including Dances and Euchre contests.

Working Bees were held to cut fire wood to sell and Tenders put out for grazing rights to the Recreation Reserve to augment funds and in later years some Committee members would offer a paddock to be cropped to help raise funds.

In August 1964 the Hall was wired for electricity by Mr Brian Male at a cost of £68 and a ‘Switch On Ball’ was held on 3rd September 1964 to celebrate the 'switching on' of power in the Emu district.

The arrival of power had been in the pipeline for years involving lengthy negotiations with the SEC. L ocal residents were required to contribute funds (so much per household) before it could proceed.

In 1967/68 the quote of builders Schulz and Donaldson was accepted for the erection of a new Kitchen for the Hall which was completed by mid 1968.

In 1976 the Emu Tennis Club was granted approval to construct two Tennis Courts on the recreation reserve behind the Hall.

At about this time the Hall Committee was also seeking grants to erect a new Toilet Block and the subject of a new toilet block was tossed back and forwards for a number of years.

It wasn't until around 1981 that it became a reality with

Above: The Emu Hall in 1984 the Council assisted in obtaining funds and the toilet block was built by Mr Ken Higgins with assistance from Mr Gerald Poole.

In 1987, under the 'Commonwealth Employment Program' the Shire of Kara Kara gave the Hall a much needed facelift.

Some re-blocking was undertaken, the exterior was painted and cement entrance ramps were laid enabling easier access to the building.

Sadly as the years flew by the Hall was being used less and less and fell into a serious state of disrepair.

The weatherboards and doors deteriorated badly, windows were broken and the toilets were barely functioning.

The Tennis Club had folded with local players joining the St. Arnaud Lawn Tennis Club.

Only the occasional meeting was held and the swallows took over the building.

The Committee feared for its future and for a number of years fought for major funding to save the life of its Hall.

The Hall Committee

by then was a Committee of Management elected triennially to manage and maintain the Hall under control of the DNRE who own the Recreation Reserve.

The-then Department of Natural Resources and Environment (DNRE) encouraged the Committee not to give up in its quest for funding and in the last year of its ‘Crown Land Reserves Improvement Program’ the DNRE provided a Grant of $15,000.00 to enable significant work to be undertaken to restore the building.

In 2001 the exterior of the Hall was totally re-clad with colour bond iron, new windows in keeping with the heritage of the building were installed, as well as new doors, new spouting and some re-stumping.

To celebrate and thank its members and locals who assisted with the works, the Committee held a Christmas Bar-Be-Que for the community which went on to became an annual event.

Since then the Hall has not looked back and has been fortunate

to receive various funding grants over the years from the DNRE, the Northern Grampians Shire, the Government and FRRR. Council funding led to repairs to the toilet block.

DNRE funding saw the Hall floor sanded and polished.

Commonwealth Drought Relief funding saw the Hall acquire a fridge, tables and chairs, a BBQ as well as a new kitchen and storage shed.

A gas stove and gas heaters were also installed thanks to funding the Committee applied for.

In 2017 the Hall received more funding from the department for restumping of the main hall and termite eradication and the floor was re-sanded and sealed.

On the 6th November 2011 the Committee held a very successful ‘Back To Emu’ to celebrate the Emu Memorial Hall's 90th Birthday with well over 200 people attending and a great day was had by all with an extensive photo display set up in the Hall.

People gathered under a large marquee set up behind the Hall to share refreshments and reminisce on old times.

Sadly many of the oldest residents who returned for the day have now passed on.

Many of those people graciously shared their memories and precious photo's of Emu's past.

Now the Emu Memorial Hall has reached its 100th Birthday.

Although COVID restrictions have prevented the community from holding an event to celebrate the occasion, and few events have been held during the last 18 months, the Hall is still a well known landmark and meeting place.

It's rustic 'old world' charm has been admired my many and hopefully it will continue to be the heart of its community for years to come.

The Committee thanks all current and past members and the local community in general for their time and effort in maintaining and improving the Emu Memorial Hall.

Above: In 2011 'Back To Emu" celebrations had the crowd gathered in front of the Hall.

Page 8 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 17th 2021.

Students get hands on stories for Remembrance Day THE students at the St. Arnaud Primary School were treated to special guests at their Remembrance Day Service in the school’s Art Centre.

Mrs MacGowan spoke to the students about her service in the Womens AAAF in World War II. Bob Wooley guided the students through some formal elements of the service and Kay Smith played the bugle for them.

The school was very lucky to

have such a wealth of knowledge available to support their commemoration.

Each class presented a reading and the respectful behaviour was an excellent effort from the students.

The sale of ANZAC memorabilia raised $247.30 for the RSL.

Left: Mrs Doreen MacGowan (left) with teacher Annette Driscoll as she speaks to students about her service in World War II. Below: (left to right) Bob Wooley, Kay Smith, Doreen MacGowan with Finn Green and Addison Wright holding two beautiful photographs that Mrs. MacGowan bought in of her parents.

Council adopts its Annual Report and Key Plans AN online Northern Grampians Shire Council (NGSC) meeting was held on 25th October 2021 to consider the Annual Report 2020-21, the Financial Plan 2021-31 and the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2021-25.

NGSC meetings continue to be held online via Teams Webinars as a consequence of Coronavirus restrictions but will hopefully return to open council meetings soon.

The meeting outcomes were: • Council endorsed the Annual Report 2020-21 and will advise the Minister for Local Government Mr Shaun Leane MP of its endorsement per the Local Government Act 2020. The Annual Report includes the financial report and performance statement for the same financial year and provides statutory information and operational reports as prescribed by the Act. • Council adopted the Financial Plan 2021-31.

The Plan is derived from the adopted Budget 2021-22 which forms the first year of the ten year plan. Council acknowledged that the subsequent years are modelled on forecast assumptions and are dependent on a number of economic unknowns such as government funding levels.

• Council approved the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2021-25. This document is created every four years at the commencement of every new Council term in accordance with the Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008. The Plan was formed in consultation with stakeholders, key service providers and workshops with the community and focuses on five key goals: 1. to improve mental health and wellbeing 2. increase access to health services 3. reduce family violence, 4. increase healthy eating and active living and 5. act on climate change.

We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re upgrading the Bendigo and Echuca lines to deliver three new stations and more frequent trains to Echuca, Epsom and Eaglehawk. We’re also upgrading the Sunbury Line to make it quicker and easier to get to universities, hospitals and jobs in Melbourne.

Train disruptions: Coaches replace trains in both directions Echuca Line Bendigo Line Swan Hill Line

Until 30 Nov

Bendigo to Echuca

20 to 21 Nov

Southern Cross to Echuca

At night, 19 Nov

Southern Cross to Bendigo

20 to 21 Nov

Southern Cross to Gisborne

20 to 21 Nov

Southern Cross to Bendigo

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

1363

Find a detailed list of disruptions at bigbuild.vic.gov.au

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 17th 2021 - Page 9

In The Paddock If you think safety is expensive, try having an accident THESE are the words of one of our employees last year, who is also a pilot, talking about safety on farm.

While I know safety should always be our first priority, linking it to cost certainly made me sit up a little straighter.

As farmers we are only too aware of how much things cost, fertiliser, chemicals, land (the price of it!) and machinery.

We are working with figures so often we could probably compete in a maths quiz game show: IF we had the time.

We need to have this financial focus, it’s

what keeps us profitable.

The catch is that we can also calculate the cost of labour, even at 3am on the header, after downing our 3rd coke.

We tell ourselves we are saving money doing it ourselves rather than employing that extra hand, that working hard is farming, we might even pride ourselves on how hard we work!

But what is all this hard work, this constant pushing of

Dyer and Weidemann welcomed as new BCG Board Members BIRCHIP Cropping Group (BCG) welcomed two new members to its board at last week’s Annual General Meeting - Kaniva grain grower Jono Dyer and Rupanyup cropping and sheep farmer Kayla Weidemann.

They were each elected for a three-year term.

BCG Chair John Ferrier welcomed the two new board members saying they were fortunate to have such high calibre candidates willing to step forward and join our board.

“It is especially pleasing that they are younger farmers who recognise the important role BCG plays in helping farmers in our region.

“As west Wimmera and southern Wimmera farmers, the inclusion of Jono and Kayla on our board will ensure BCG continues to cover a broad footprint” he said.

John Fe r r i e r renominated for a three-year term as did Horsham grain grower

Tim Rethus and Stefano Di Pieri from Mildura.

Former BCG Chair and long-term board member Caroline Welsh, who has served on the board for 14 years, did not renominate and Lawloit grain a n d s h e e p f a r m e r, Alan Bennet, stepped down from the BCG Board earlier this year.

“I am confident our new board will continue to serve BCG members and the broader industry, well.

The future for BCG looks bright and we have the team to make the most of the opportunities that present.

“We will now turn our focus firmly to safely getting this year’s crop harvested and stored,” John Ferrier concluded.

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

ourselves to work harder, longer, faster really costing us?

It’s very likely what we are picking up in labour costs we are losing in sleep, diet, exercise, mood and mental health (there is a direct link between all five).

When we sacrifice these things, we are also sacrificing our safety.

While the bottom line is important, employing that extra someone to help out so you can get a good night’s sleep might be the difference between you falling asleep at the wheel and running through a fence which will cost you more money and time (and potentially grain quality) if you have to pull up to get the front fixed (we all know someone who has done this).

David (my son) still curses me for damaging the spout of a hay shed a couple of years ago when I was working double time harvesting and stacking hay in the mornings… every time it rains it creates work.

The damage however could be much worse, it could be jumping over an auger PTO because you’re too tired or in too much of a hurry to walk around and getting your leg caught or not engaging the field bin arm before changing the tyre because you were too tired to remember or thought you already had because you only had 4 hours sleep last night.

Again we have all heard stories of what happens when the lever fling backs— most have ended up in hospital, some worse.

These sound like stupid mistakes to make and they are, but lack of sleep impairs our judgement and we can be more likely to rationalise these risks away.

As farmers we need to support each other in getting extra labour when required and put our health first.

We are notorious for looking over our neighbour’s fence, therefore the more of us looking after our health, the more we are setting an

Page 10 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 17th 2021.

example: that it’s ‘OK’ to put our health first, that in fact it’s imperative to a sustainable farm business.

This year I am making employing adequate labour a priority so that everyone employed on our farm is putting their health and therefore safety first.

We hope that by ensuring we have adequate labour it will have the following positive effects: • If we have more sleep we will have more energy to make ourselves a healthy lunch box EVERY day that will keep our energy levels balanced throughout the day, this has the flow on affect that we are less likely to reach for that coke or coffee during the day or night (which can affect heart rate, stress and our sleep as well as our waistline).

In BCG’s November edition of eNews we have some healthy lunch box ideas to motivate you. Sign up at bcg.org.au •We can take a couple of minutes to put sunscreen on.

• Having an extra pair of hands will allow me to take some time out each day to stretch, exercise and get my heart rate up which can help everything from back pain to mood.

• Having appropriate labour may also help with my stress levels.

As we are already riding the waves of the weather forecast and harvest hasn’t even begun yet, employing extra labour now and moving into harvest is helping to ease my stress levels (bolstered by a good night’s sleep and healthy diet).

Safety induction and training In addition to the above measures on our farm we always make the time to induct new employees into the business which is particularly important during peak times such as harvest.

We have sent a letter to all existing and new employees with our newly updated safety

by John Ferrier Chair, Birchip Cropping Group procedures and a date for our harvest safety induction day.

With new and existing employees we believe it is extra important that we have this day to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Ensuring ever y employee knows that safety comes first on our farm is important as well as ensuring they know how to safely operate machinery, how to mitigate risk and the importance we place on a balanced workload.

We want our employees to feel confident in letting us know of a safety issue on our farm or if they feel they need to take some time to regroup.

Not only does this make for a safer farm, it also means we are more likely to attract

Above: John Ferrier, Chair of BCG labour when needed which cycles back around to being able to get labour to support your health!

Join me in making your health and safety and that of your employees your number one priority and enjoy the positive rip-

Week ending Thursday 4th November 2021.

ple effects across your farm. Go one better and talk about how you are doing this with your friends and neighbours and on social media.

Let’s get the message out there that healthy farmers are sustainable farmers.

— By Glendon Hancock

THE Australian wool market has lost ground during this series, driven mainly by losses in the merino fleece sector.

The national offering fell to 37,630 bales, due in part to the 5.3% of wool withdrawn prior to sale.

Unlike last week where it was mainly the finer merino microns recording losses, this week the falls were felt across all merino fleece types and descriptions.

The bulk of the losses were felt on the first day of selling, across the country the individual Micron Price Guides (MPGs) for 16.5 through to 21.0 micron lost between 9 and 82 cents, only the 22.0 micron MPG in the South managing a nominal 4 cent increase.

These falls contributed to a 14 cent reduction in the AWEX Eastern Market Indicator (EMI).

The second day of selling the market settled to a

degree, in the Eastern markets the movements in the MPGs ranged between +16 and -20 cents.

In Fremantle, selling last on the final day, the market recovered slightly, this was reflected in the Western MPGs which ranged between -1 and +9 cents, showing promising signs for next week’s sales.

The EMI lost 7 cents on the second day, dropping 21 cents for the series, closing at 1,319 cents.

Understandably, the drop in the market pushed the national passed in rate higher, as many sellers were either unwilling or unprepared to accept the prices on offer.

The passed in rate nationally was 14.2%, this was 4.0% higher than in the previous series.

Despite the falls expe-

National Offering Centre North South West Total

Week 19 19 19

Days 9, 10 Nov. 9, 10 Nov. 9, 10 Nov.

Offering 10,373 20,922 6,335 37,630

Future Offerings Week

20

16, 17, 18 Nov. 44,754

Source - AWEX

rienced so far in the 2021/22 season, the market is still beyond the price levels of this time last year.

Compared to the corresponding sale of the previous season, the EMI is 130 cents higher, an increase of 10.9%.

Despite the softer market, the national offering for next week has climbed.

44,754 bales are currently expected to be of fered in Sydney, Melbourne and Fremantle.

Melbourne Ind.

16.5 17 17.5 18 18.5 19 19.5 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 28 30 32 MC

1269

-20

2533n 2364n 2205n 1977 1786 1614 1453 1334 1277n 1266n

-30 -14 -57 -36 -35 -34 -43 -29 -40 -4

895n 725n 415 348n

+5 -25 -22

869

+3

In The Paddock Rooting for lentils - increasing production under a changing climate SCIENTISTS are unearthing new knowledge about lentils in research that aims to discover root traits that will help breeders develop droughttolerant varieties to increase production of the pulse.

The research is the first of its kind in Australian lentil varieties, as root research, particularly in pulses, is still in its infancy.

Agriculture Victoria Research Scientist Dr Shiwangni Rao said knowledge of the whole plant is integral to understanding plant growth.

“I think of it as going to war with a spear, but no shield. If you are trying to increase pulse production and you are only looking at above the ground and not below, you are only addressing half the question,” Dr Rao said.

Most of Australia's lentils are produced in Victoria and South Aust -ralia, and export opportunities were boosted recently after India cut tariffs on Australian lentils from 30 to 10 per cent.

This research involved planting 36 lentil varieties in PVC tubes in the glasshouse at the Agriculture Victoria Research Horsham SmartFarm.

At maturity, the roots were washed, scanned and measured for a range of traits such as root length, surface area and average diameter.

The second part of the experiment involved planting a range of lentil and field pea varieties under rain-fed conditions in the field, and a hydraulic corer was used to collect root samples for analysis.

“Using the corer – a machine that digs out cylinder-shaped samples – we collected 2,600 cores from 408 plots over the growing season.”

“Rhizotron is like a

colonoscopy for soil, and we can use it to visualise the plant roots. We stick a clear tube in the soil at the start of the season, and as the plant grows around the tube, we can pop a scanner inside and obtain images of the roots at any time,” she said.

This research is ongoing; however, the team have so far identified five different root architecture forms associated with different varieties.

“The range of root shapes is greater than we expected, and they differ considerably in terms of distribution, depth and diameter,” Dr Rao said.

One interesting correlation the research team aims to reveal is the use of aboveground traits such as canopy temperature to predict root traits.

“It is hypothesised that varieties with cooler canopies have deeper roots, but last year the weather was

too wet – we hope there will be some interesting correlations this year.”

Understanding the root architecture of lentils will benefit breeders and grain growers.

“This information will help breeders when they are looking to cross different varieties for local adaptation to different growing regions,” Dr Rao said.

“They may cross a good yielding variety with deep roots for the low rainfall zone or a shallow root system with a lot of biomass for the high rainfall zone, additionally if they need to address boron toxicity or salinity there are roots that are resistant to those constraints.”

Dr Rao said this knowledge will also help growers improve production and adapt to the changing climate.

“Drought has a major impact, and it is hard to predict when it will strike so we definitely need all the tools

in our toolbox to address unpredictable rainfall, and even when it is not a drought year, an efficient root system means better yield.”

This research is part of the Victorian Grains Innovation Partnership between the Grains Research and Development Corporation and Agriculture Victoria, and is aligned with the Grow, Modernise and Protect themes of the Strategy for Agriculture in Victoria.

Above: Breeders can now develop droughttolerant varieties of lentils that will increase production of the pulse.

HAY BALING CONTRACTING 25 + YEARS EXPERIENCE

BEAT THE RAIN THE RAIN SKIP THE QUEUE & BEAT RECEIVE A QUALITY JOB, COMPETITIVE RECEIVE A QUALITY JOB, RATES WITH QUALITYRATES EQUIPMENT COMPETITIVE

Call Chris at WITH QUALITY EQUIPMENT BIG SQUARE BALING CALL CHRIS ON 0419 008 on 0419 008 114

SHEEP

114

1,300 ST. ARNAUD VIC

DALYENONG STATION ONFARM MERINO FLOCK DISPERSAL

Interfaced with

Thursday, 25th November 2021 - Commencing 1pm 1026 Archdale Rd, Dalyenong Vic 3477 A/C:- Ardroy Securities Pty Ltd 140 Merino Ewes, July 2020 drop 390 Merino Ewes, Apr/May 2020 drop 280 Merino Ewes, Apr/ May 2018 drop* (*purchased as Mumblebone BLD)

Total 1,300 head

190 Merino Ewes, Apr/ May 2017 drop 200 Merino Ewes, Apr/ May 2016 drop 100 SELECTED Merino Ewes, 2017 – 2020 drop ~To be divided into suitable Sale Lots~ Gudair Vacc, 6in1 Vacc, Unmulsed, Sept Shorn,

Excellent line up of Gowandale Bloodlines (Infusion of Ridgeway Advance and Leahcim BLD) Rare opportunity to purchase classed in breeders and take advantage of Non-Mulsed Premium in the wool market with High Fertility.

Attendance recommended – Online bidding available via AuctionsPlus Glendon Hancock: 0429 829 613 Jarrod Dubignon: 0447 609 466

www.auctionsplus.com.au

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 17th 2021 - Page 11

EMPLOYMENT POSITION VACANT CASUAL Driveway Attendant

TRUCK DRIVER WANTED

Weekdays and Weekends as needed

Single Tipper Driver for Harvest work

Position includes fuel & shop sales, general cleaning and other sundry duties.

Basic computer knowledge.

May lead to other work after harvest

Applications in writing, delivered to:Alan & Mark Esmore St. Arnaud Apex Service Station 1 Silvermines Road, St. Arnaud. Vic. 3478

MUST HAVE HC LICENCE

Phone: Stephen Poole, Emu

0418 507 446

DRIVING POSITION POSITION VACANT

PUBLIC NOTICE

AVAILABLE

Lions Club of St. Arnaud

ATTENTION CLUBS, GROUPS & ORGANISATIONS Please be advised the Community Event “Welcome St.Arnaud” has been rescheduled to 19th March 2022.

The event will be held at Queen Mary Gardens opposite the St.Arnaud Information Centre.

We look forward to promoting some of the 80 clubs, groups & organizations to the community.

St. Arnaud Football Club

Major Raffle Winners 1st Prize - Elisha & Corbin O’Donnell 2nd Prize - Bob Egan 3rd Prize - Glenda & Geoff Bigmore 4th Prize - Conlan Gunn

Get it through our

WANTed ads!

(03) 5495 1055

Customer Support Officer - St Arnaud Northern Grampians Shire Council is seeking applications from suitable candidates for the Customer Support Officer role based in St Arnaud, on a permanent, part time basis, working 45 hours per fortnight. The position is responsible for providing high level customer support and administration services to the Northern Grampians Shire Council’s community, councillors and staff, ensuring the service is responsive, first point issue resolution and customer centric.

Applications close midday Monday, 22 November 2021.

Please apply via our website www.ngshire.vic.gov.au/Careers LIANA THOMPSON CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

WANTED Full time HC semi drivers required ABOVE AWARD WAGES Monday – Friday local work in tippers Training provided with immediate start Please contact Whitelock Transport 03 5444 4770 or forward resumes to admin@whitelocktransport.com.au

DONALD PUBLIC CEMETERY TRUST

GRAVEDIGGING CONTRACT The Trustees are advertising for the services of a Grave Digger at the Cemetery for a period of two (2) years commencing on the 1st January 2022 to the 31st December 2023.

For Tender details contact Secretary, Mrs Vivienne Davidson, 5497 1555.

Tenders will close on the 19th November 2021 at 5p.m. and are to be addressed to the Secretary, Donald Public Cemetery Trust, P.O. Box 149, Donald, Vic. 3480.

• I urge those drivers who thought it was great fun to drive through the flood waters in Napier Street, Queens Avenue and Brisbane Street to think very carefully about your actions. You created heartache and mess for shopkeepers and homeowners.

Name and address supplied.

St. Arnaud Red Cross Unit

RAFFLE WINNERS 1st Gloria Eccles 2nd Joy Steer Thank you everyone for your support.

MEETINGS

Pickthall Transport Pty Ltd currently have a Full-time driving position available for Livestock For more information contact:

St Arnaud Community Resource Centre

Tony: 03 5495 1333; 0408 506 921

Notice of

Annual General Meeting

Email: tony@pickthalltransport.com.au

8:00pm Wednesday 1st December, 2021 At the CRC. 85 Napier St

Personal Care Assistants Part-Time and Casual

Phone 5495 1997 9AM-2PM Mondays to Fridays or Email at: stacrc@bigpond.net.au

Respect is a rapidly growing, not-for-profit, progressive, and purpose-driven aged care and retirement living provider that operates across Tasmania, Victoria, and New South Wales.

Respect is known for the great care we provide to our residents and the supportive and respectful working environment for our employees.

Friends of the St. Arnaud Queen Mary Gardens Inc.

We are currently seeking Personal Care Assistants to join our team at our Coates aged care home in St Arnaud, Victoria. Both part-time and casual opportunities are available.

AGM 5.30pm Wednesday 24th November, 2021

We offer competitive pay and entitlements including not-for-profit salary packaging, meaningful work in a purpose-driven organisation, long-term employment in a recession-proof sector, and a healthy and positive workplace culture.

To be successful in this role, applicants will need to demonstrate a relevant qualification or experience, a genuine interest for working in aged care, well developed customer service skills, the ability to work as part of a team, and flexibility for shift work. A National Police Certificate and Covid-19 vaccination (unless medical exempt) is also required to work in aged care.

For further information, please contact Jane Snell via email jane.snell@respect.com.au or by phone 03 5477 3300.

To apply, please email a cover letter and copy of your resume to jane.snell@respect.com.au.

Applications close on Friday, 26 November 2021.

At the Community Meeting Room, St. Arnaud Town Hall ALL WELCOME

WANTED

Job Opportunities • Associate Nurse Unit Manager • Clinical Education Coordinator • Community Nursing: Nurse Unit Manager • Enrolled Nurse • Primary Care Administration Officer • Registered Nurse

www.respect.com.au

Page 12 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 17th 2021.

Further information is available at ewhs.org.au/employment.html

WANTED TO BUY • old wares • furniture • tools • books • scrap metal • steel wheels • anything old • deceased estates Ph: 0429 942 637

DECLARATION Fire Danger Period GARAGE SALE

BIRTHDAYS

WANTED

MONSTER GARAGE SALE

Dale is 40

POP TOP CARAVAN Phone: 0418 304 930.

ANTIQUE BOTTLES $100s paid by private collector doing a book on cordial factories & breweries in country Victoria.

Phone Robert: Mob: 0488 300 900 FOR SALE

25% OFF Overnight Bags available at St. Arnaud Allsorts

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

For Sale Heavy duty large sherlock tradesman builders wheelbarrow.

With a 1-foot-wide heavy-duty wheel.

Used twice. $150 Two industrial sized roof spinaways in excellent condition. $100 each.

Phone 54677147

Blockout and Screen Indoor Blinds Large range.

Want to keep your house cool?

Order now in time for Christmas.

Don’t wait until too late.

Call Barney Ezard 5495 1922 or 0428 317 315 Goldings 64-68 Napier St., St. Arnaud. wjgoldingco@gmail.com

TO ADVERTISE PH: 5495 1055

20th & 21st November 8am Start 36 Bowen Street, St. Arnaud.

DEATH

Happy 40th Birthday Daddy - we love you!

Love Chad & Viv

AT YOUR SERVICE

• IRONSTONE

REMOVALS - Maryborough- runs south.

Phone: 0412 726 432.

Nicola Kirk Physiotherapist Over 15 years experience Open Mon to Fri 8 Nelson Parade ST. ARNAUD

0400 451 432 or 5495 1108

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

PH: 0409 337 276 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

THANKYOU Many thanks to our family, friends, neighbours and the many volunteers who helped clean up our beautiful new home after the torrential rain and flood on Wednesday 3rd of November. You came out of nowhere and worked so hard. Thanks also to all those who brought food on the night and over the following days. The messages of support brought comfort to us both. The Police, SES, EWHS, CFA and the Shire also contributed where and when they could. It is great to live in a community of caring people.

Denis and Trish Goode

CHURCH NOTICES ST. ARNAUD UNITING CHURCH ST.ARNAUD Sunday 21st November 9.30am G. Postlethwaite PARISH OFFICE Chris & Rob Batters Pastorial Co-ordinators Enquiries 5495 6223

ANGLICAN PARISH OF ST. ARNAUD Friday 19th November 9.00am St Arnaud Morning Prayer Sunday 21st November 8.00am Bealiba Eucharist 9.30am St Arnaud Eucharist The Rev’d Canon Jan Harper Phone: 0439 757 278.

BARRATT (WRIGHT) - Esma Margaret Passed away peacefully in St Arnaud on Nov. 11th 2021, aged 85 years. Loved wife of Graeme (dec). Loving mother and mother-inlaw of Kerryn & Keiran; Michael & Joan; Robyn; John & Kath. Loved Grandma of 11 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.

Loved sister of Brian & Sue: Maurice (dec) & Jan. RE-UNITED WITH GRAEME KELL FUNERALS ST ARNAUD NFDA

EST: 1860

5495 1043 BARRATT (WRIGHT) - Esma Margaret Loving sister of Brian & sister-in-law of Sue, loved Aunty of Scott & Tamara, Paula & Fabian, Kristy & Garry and their families.

You will remain in our hearts and memories always.

Rest in Peace.

BARRATT (WRIGHT) - Esma Margaret Passed away November 11th, 2021 at St. Arnaud.

Wife of Graeme (Dec.), Sister-in-law of Alison Goldsbury, and Edley (dec.).

Aunty of Lawrence, Glenda Green, Joy Molan, and families.

ALWAYS REMEMBERED BARRATT (WRIGHT) - Esma Margaret Long time friend and neighbour.

We shared our lives for many years and have many wonderful memories.

Esma will be sadly missed.

Deepest sympathy to Kerryn, Michael, Robyn and John and their families.

Val and Clive Hancock and Family

Karen@klp.net.au

KELL FUNERALS Est 1860

PRE PAID FUNERALS AVAILABLE HAIRDRESSING SERVICES 9.00am - 5.00pm TUESDAY TO SATURDAY After hours by appointment Situated at the back of the St. Arnaud Health & Fitness Gym by entering Mewkill Court from McMahon Street.

OVER 10 YEARS EXPERIENCE EFTPOS available

Phone: 0410 066 244

24 HOURS

Ph: 5495 1043

136 Napier Street St. Arnaud

NAFD Member

Birthday wishes to: November 17th Les Cummings (90) Aaron Harvey

November 18th Jarryd Kell November 19th Rebecca Horsfall Joe Secombe Xander Morrow

November 20th Julie Hunt Sylvia Moerman Anthony Rhoden November 22nd Melissa Esmore Don Ferguson November 23rd Mahalia Martin

FREEMAN (PENGLASE) - Patricia Mary 27/12/1922 - 07/11/2021 Beloved and loving wife of Lindsay (dec). Loved and loving mother of Mary Jane (dec), Penelope, Christobel, William (dec) and Samantha.

Loved and respected mother in law of Garry Biggs, James Anderson, Phill Freeman-Mezzatesta and David Matthews.

Loved and loving grandmother of Michael and Emily Biggs, Alexandra, Angus and Dougal Anderson, Dominique and Campbell Matthews.

Loved and respected grandmother in law of Henry Lee and Christopher Bodikian. Loving great grandmother of Eddie, Charlie and Sophie Lee and of Theodore Bodikian. Mother of Ross, mother-in-law to Angela, grandmother to Ellen and Sophie Freeman.

Refer to lifelived.com.au for funeral details.

KELL FUNERALS ST ARNAUD NFDA

EST: 1860

The Fire Danger Period will commence at 0100 hours on the date shown and unless varied by a subsequent declaration, will end at 0100 hours onÊÊ 1 May 202 .

Municipality

Date of Commencement

Buloke Shire Council – North of the line described by: Boort Wycheproof Road, Birchip Wycheproof Road, Sunraysia Highway and Birchip Rainbow Road.

15/11/2021

Buloke Shire Council – South of the line described by: Boort Wycheproof Road, Birchip Wycheproof Road, Sunraysia Highway and Birchip Rainbow Road.

22/11/2021

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

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

5495 1043

Rubber Stamps North Central News (03) 5495 1055

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WANTED

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

Appointments to the Board of Directors of East Wimmera Health Service The Minister for Health, Martin Foley MP, is pleased to invite applications for part time board director positions of East Wimmera Health Service with terms of office commencing from 1 July 2022.

Safe and high quality healthcare for all Victorians is a priority of the Victorian Government. Applicants for board directorships must be able to demonstrate and provide evidence in support of the skills they identify in their applications.

Collaboration, through the recently established Health Service Partnerships, is a key Victorian Government priority https://www2.health.vic.gov.au/healthservice-partnership. Applicants should have a demonstrated history of achievement through collaboration and partnering. Being able to demonstrate strong working relationships, particularly in the Victorian health sector, will be highly valued.

These positions provide an exciting opportunity for members of the Victorian public with relevant experience and qualifications to contribute to the strategic leadership of public health care delivery to the community.

East Wimmera Health Service is a small rural health service that delivers a range of programs and services for our local communities. The Health Service has 5 campuses located in the townships of Birchip, Charlton, Donald, Saint Arnaud and Wycheproof.

Further information is available on our website http://ewhs.org.au.

The Victorian Government is committed to ensuring boards, and committees, broadly reflect the diversity of the Victorian community. Applications are welcomed from women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people of all ages, people with disabilities, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, gender diverse and intersex people.

Applications close at Midnight Monday 29 November 2021.

Further information including how to apply, please visit https://www2.health.vic.gov.au/governance For all enquiries regarding the appointment process, please contact Warren Anderson on 0458053512 or warren.anderson@health.vic.gov.au For all enquiries regarding the board, please contact Susan Harley on (03) 5477 2129 or susan.harley@ewhs.org.au

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 17th 2021 - Page 13

DEATH FREEMAN (PENGLASE) - Patricia Mary The family of George and Melva Bugge are saddened to hear the passing of Patricia.

Deepest sympathy to all the family.

2021 St. Arnaud Netball windup - Contributed

A LT H O U G H t h e 2021 Netball season wasn’t quite how we would have imagined it to eventuate it was fantastic to be on the court for half a season and a credit to all our p l aye r s fo r t h e i r ongoing resilience, achievements and efforts during the season.

SCOTT - Anthony (Tony) Passed away on 9/11/21 aged 69. Loved father and father-in-law of Erin and Tim, Courtney and Tom. Grandfather to four grandchildren and dear friend of Bernice.

REST IN PEACE. WATKINS (BRUHN) - Shirley May passed away peacefully in St Arnaud on November 8th 2021, aged 89 yrs.

Dearly loved wife of Bill and much loved mother of Ray and Linda.

Mother-in-law of Liz and Fred. Treasured Nanna of Sam, Kate; Rachael, Nicole, Steven and Great Nanna of Freya.

Forever in our hearts.

A private funeral will be held.

KELL FUNERALS ST ARNAUD NFDA

EST: 1860

5495 1043

FUNERAL BARRATT A committal service for the late Mrs. Esma M. Barratt will be held at the Grays Bridge Cemetery on THURSDAY (Nov. 18th) at 10.00am.

A Memorial Service will then be held at the St. Arnaud Uniting Church commencing at 11.00am.

COVID restrictions apply KELL FUNERALS NFDA EST: 1860

ST ARNAUD 5495 1043

CHURCH NOTICES ST. ARNAUD CHURCH OF CHRIST Cnr. Queens Ave & Alma St. Faith in Our Lord Thursday 18th November 10.30am: Faith Group Sunday 21st November 9.30am: Prayer time 10.30am: Celebrate Messiah’s Barry Buirski will be speaking about the “Feast of Tabernacles”.

Due to capacity limits his message may also be viewed by interested residents on Zoom.

For the Zoom link please email argeorge@fastmail.com.au Our Church services are open to all regardless of vaccination status.

Enquiries: Brian Eccles Ph: 5495 2267

Above: Award recipients: Left to right: Bridgette Knights, Abby Needs, Chelsea Gravener, Polly Douglas, India Griffith, Imogen Amos. Absent: Ellie Meagher, Alana Curran, Brooke Williams.

CHURCH NOTICES

DISTRICT CATHOLIC CHURCHES East Wimmera Parish Saturday November 20th 7.00pm - Charlton Sunday November 21st 10.30am - DONALD (live streamed out) 10.30am - ST. ARNAUD (live streamed in) Parish Priest: Fr Gerry Prunty 0419 247 779 Parish Coordinator: Noeline Hogan 0476 617 976

The season is never possible without the efforts of our Coaches, Committee, Umpires, Sponsors and families, a BIG thank you to all!

Due to COVID restrictions the Netball club held a live vote count back on the 7th October and last Friday the 5th November we acknowledged these efforts and achievements in a presentation ceremony held at our club rooms.We had 19 Under 13 girls participate for the season.

All showing such great improvements in ability.

A special mention to Scarlett Hand and Millie Hando who represented the NCNA under 13 representative teams this year.

Our award winners for Under 13:

13B: ANGLICAN PARISH OF CHARLTON/ DONALD Friday 19th November St. Pauls Birchip 5.00pm Holy Communion Sunday 21st November Holy Communion (all services) St. Georges Donald 11.00am St. Martins Charlton 1.00pm Holy Trinity Wedderburn 3.00pm Rev. Judi Bird Ph: 0435 593 359

Above: Under 16 Award recipients - Left to right: Demi Leach, Isabell Hand, Sophie O’Donnell, Polly Douglas, Keegan Amos, Amy Greenaway, Ava Wilson. Absent : Teagan Cole.

Coach’s award: Tahyah Reyne- sponsored by RAMJAC • Cont. next page.

The Deadline for all adverts to appear in the

North Central News is 5.00pm Friday.

Above: Under 13 netballers: Left to Right: Back Row: Gypsy Donald, Millie Hando, Chloe Needs, Scarlett Hand, Georgie Wandel, Mary Patton, Front: Chloe Stones, Lucy O’Donnell, Tahyah Reyne, Maeve Patton, Sami Weir.

Absent: Alyda Lijo, Talisha Johns, Abbey & Chelsea Cole, Amelia Kirkpatrick, Lucy Mahon, Tessa Patton, Jade Shields.

PERSONAL CARING SERVICE CHARLTON & DISTRICT — 5492 2547

Page 14 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 17th 2021.

Home Deliveries Ph: 5495 1055

Contact us for your local paper home delivered every Wednesday morning.

• From previous page.

Most Improved: Chloe Stones- sponsored by 4000 Olives

13A: Coach’s award- Talisha Johns-sponsored by RAMJAC Most Improved- Chloe Needs-sponsored by S & V Wilson Under 16 Awards:

16B: Coach’s award: Sophie O’Donnellsponsored by Planning to Party Most Improved: Demi LeachSponsored by-Hando’s SportFirst Runner Up: Ava Wilson-Sponsored by- S & W Griffith B e s t & Fa i r e s t - D e m i L e a c h Sponsored by- Trendz on Napier

16A: Coach’s award: Keegan Amos- sponsored by Clohesy Family M o s t I m p r o v e d : Te a g a n C o l e Sponsored by-M & P Woods Runner Up: Isabell Hand-Sponsored by- St Arnaud Health and Fitness B e s t & Fa i r e s t - Po l l y D o u g l a s Sponsored by- K & L Ezard Isabell Hand represented NCNA in the Under 15 Representative team which was a great achievement.

Above: Senior and Junior Umpire Awards: Abby Needs and Keegan Amos.

Above: Under 16 Junior Incentive award winners for 2021 Keegan Amos and Amy Greenaway.

Senior Award Recipients: C Grade: Coach’s Award: Ellie Meagher-sponsored by M & R Hendy Most Improved- Brooke Williamssponsored by-BETTA Home living Runner Up-Alana Curran-sponsored by-A & T Scarce Best & Fairest- Ellie Meagher-sponsored by-Williams Joinery and Glass

B Grade: Coach’s Award- Polly Douglas-sponsored by K & M Hendy Most Improved- Imogen Amos-sponsored by BETTA home Living Runner Up- Bridgette Knights and Chelsea Gravener-sponsored by R & T Summers Best & Fairest- Polly Douglas- sponsored by C & G Cornwell

A Grade: Coach’s award –Rebecca Arbucklesponsored by C & J Forster Most Improved-Abby Needs-sponsored by- BETTA Home Living Runner up-Chelsea Gravener-sponsored by-C & J Arbuckle Best & Fairest- India Griffith-sponsored by- L & A Ezard We acknowledged the efforts of our Umpires throughout the year and awarded a Junior Umpire award to Keegan Amos and a senior award to Abby Needs.

Congratulations to all our recipients and to all players that participated in the season.

As we forge onto season 2022 with much optimism and the opportunity to get back on the court and play the sport we all love-NETBALL! “GO SAINTS”

Above: Millie Hando - Junior Incentive Award.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 17th 2021 - Page 15

Northern Grampians Mayoral Matters A warm hello to everyone in the community.

Above: New Northern Grampians Shire Mayor Tony Driscoll, now commencing his third term as Mayor.

My name is Tony Driscoll and on Monday night my fellow councillors elected me to represent you as Mayor of Northern Grampians Shire Council (NGSC).

It will be my third term in this role and whether you grew up here like me or you are newly settled in our shire, I am very much looking forward to catching up with you all out and about in the community.

Today is Remembrance Day and I ask you all to consider taking a minute’s silence at 11am in memory of everyone who served and fell in the line of duty during the First World War. This war had a devastating impact on many families in our rural community last century and the service offers us a

GET VACCINATED.

moment to reflect on the supreme sacrifice they made for the freedoms we enjoy today.

Council will be laying a wreath at the RSL memorial services in both Stawell and St Arnaud. Lest we forget.

Council is masked-up and rubbing CovidSafe shoulders with State and Federal Government ministers this month to announce many exciting tourism and development projects but an event I cannot wait to attend is the community film screening of Happy Sad Man. The event is being held this weekend at our town halls in St. Arnaud and Stawell and has been organised by Grampians Community Health with support from Council and the State Government’s Community Activation and Social Isolation Initiative funding.

It is an Australian documentary that

from all accounts will make you both laugh and cry as it explores what it means to “be a bloke” and talk openly about male mental health.

The event will start with a free barbecue, followed by the film and then a Q and A panel with the filmmaker Genevieve Bailey and community members.

A small donation is being requested to go towards local organisations that support mental health in our shire.

Come along to the Stawell event at 6pm on Saturday and St Arnaud at 11.30am on Sunday.

More information at www.happysadman.org While it is lovely to see many sporting and social aspects of our lives returning as we follow the government’s Roadmap to Recovery, I remind everyone that we are not out of the woods yet in terms of the potential threat to our community’s health and economy.

Bear in mind that even at almost 95% full vaccination, that still means five people for every 100 in our community are not vaccinated against Covid.

These people remain at risk of serious complications from the virus that impact on our health services and community.

Please continue therefore with the preventative hygiene measures we are all familiar with and if you are at all unwell, visit one of the testing clinics at the Stawell or St. Arnaud hospitals immediately.

If you need information, we aim to provide as much local Coronavirus information as possible through our Council website and social media channels and our customer service staff are available during business hours to respond to your queries.

As a final word and as a St. Arnaud councillor, I would like to commend my fellow residents for rallying together last Wednesday 3rd November to prevent damage to vehicles and properties during the flash flood in our town.

Council is currently processing requests for assistance from property owners affected by the flash flood and undertaking secondary impact assessments.

If you also need this level of support for your property, please contact us to discuss.

Our environmental health officer particularly wants to hear from you if you can smell damp or mould in your building.

Looking forward to an exciting year ahead as your Mayor.

Please do not hesitate to have a chat with me at any time.

Cr Tony Driscoll NGSC MAYOR

POLICE REPORT BULOKE Donald Theft An 18 year old male from Banyena will face court at a later date in relation to a Theft and Criminal Damage committed at the Donald Hotel on Friday 5th November 2021.

Wyche Theft Between 6:30pm on Thursday 11th November and 4:30am on Friday 12th November 2021 a Burglary and Theft was committed at a premises in Webster Street Wycheproof.

Every jab brings us closer to the things we love.

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Another Theft in Wyche Between 4:00pm on Tuesday the 9th of November and 8:00pm on Wednesday the 10th of November 2021 a Burglary was committed at a property in Camp Street Wycheproof.

Visit Australia.gov.au or call 1800 020 080

Assistance Authorised by the Australian Government, Canberra.

Page 16 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 17th 2021.

Anyone with information that can assist police in solving Crime is requested to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Northern Grampians November Council Meeting - news bites NORTHERN Grampians Shire Council (NGSC) held its council meeting on Monday, 8th November 2021 via Teams at 12:30pm and resolved a number of matters including: Stawell and St. Arnaud Recreation Advisory Groups Terms of Reference Council approved the new terms of reference for Stawell and St. Arnaud Recreation Advisory Groups.

The terms align with Council’s Activate 2020-30 Strategy to collaborate, activate and create quality places and spaces and encourage community cohesion through sport and active recreation.

They aim to facilitate an environment post pandemic that enables sporting clubs to build their capacity and thrive.

Grant Funding and Complaints Policies Council resolved to adopt the Grant Fundi ng Policy and the Complaints Policy.

The Grant Funding Policy has been reviewed to align with the Economic Development Strategy

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and Action Plan 202131, the Council Plan 2021-25 and the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2021-25 and reflects the recent change in Council’s organisation structure.

The Complaints Policy has been developed in response to the Local Government Act 2020 requirements and incorporates recommendations outlined in the Ombudsman’s Council and Complaints – A good practice guide Edition 2.

The Complaints Policy aims to treat all complaints fairly and objectively in an evidence-based manner using a customer request system to maintain a log.

A positive organisational culture and staff training will provide a clear and consistent complaints process and experience for members of the public.

Wimmera Development Association Memorandum of Understanding Council endorsed the proposed Memorandum of Understanding pertaining to Wimmera Development Association’s change of entity and noted the timeline and process to transi-

tion to this new structure.

Council also noted the draft constitution for the Wimmera Development Association.

Domestic Animal Management Plan 2021-25 Council adopted the Domestic Animal Plan (DAMP) 2021-25.

The DAMP will act as a roadmap for all animal management services for the next four years inclusive of officer training, animal registration, problem animals and restricted breeds, euthanasia and domestic animal businesses.

Gambetta Road Named Council agreed to name the unnamed road off the StawellDonald Road, Stawell as Gambetta Road in honour of early pioneer and vigneron, Mr Peter Gambetta.

Outcome of Closed Council Section Council considered the performance and remuneration of Northern Grampians Shire Council CEO Ms Liana Thompson in camera and set revised key performance indicators.

Livestream link: https://youtu.be/CyVK m_D-lNI

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COVID Updates and Developments Victoria On Tuesday, Victoria recorded 797 (down from 860) new cases from 53,527 tests.

There are 394 cases in hospital, 72 in ICU and 44 on ventilators.

There are a total of 17,518 active cases.

There were 8 deaths recorded yesterday.

The health department said a further 71 people are in intensive care, but are no longer considered COVID active.

The ABC news is reporting that Professor Brett Sutton, Victoria’s Chief Health Officer, has criticised the national COVID-19 roadmap, believing that there should be a recovery phase in the roadmap that would help address the economic and mental health impacts of the pandemic.

According to Professor Sutton the necessary recovery phase is needed to rebuild community and system resilience and redress disadvantage exacerbated by COVID-19.

Rapid antigen tests Rapid antigen tests have been introduced at Victorian kindergartens and long-daycare centres from this week.

Eligible centres can choose to be part of the program, and parents and carers must opt-in for their children to be part of the scheme.

The Victorian government said it would reduce both quarantine time and pressure on families who are identified as primary close contacts, while ensuring early childhood settings are as low-risk as possible.

Overseas numbers climb As the Northern Hemisphere prepares for

winter, COVID case numbers are once again on the rise, putting the European continent at peril.

As people rejoice in freedom from restriction it appears that they have learnt nothing from the pandemic so far a few masks are being worn.

Austria have approximately two million unvaccinated people who are now being forced into lockdown as COVID cases reach record levels and hospitalisations surge.

Austria is the first European country to target the unvaccinated.

In New Zealand this week vaccine mandates come into effect for all education, health and disability workers.

The deadline marks a week of protests over vaccination policy and lockdowns.

World Statistics Total cases are 252,957,754 which is an increase of 432,987 in 24 hours.

Total deaths are 5,095,549 which is an increase of 6,556 in 24 hours.

World-wide only 41.5% are fully vaccinated, and 52.7% have had one dose.

USA Total cases 49,050,502 which is an increase of 59,198 in 24 hours.

UK Total cases 9,572,351 which is an increase of 37,807 in 24 hours.

Russia Total cases 8,881,506 which is an increase of 38,068 in 24 hours.

Top Five scams exposed for Scams Awareness Week REQUEST S for money transfers, phishing and fake missed call or text messages are among the top five scams targeting Victorians, according to data revealed by Consumer Affairs Victoria.

Promises of large sums of money, in return for an upfront payment, topped the list with 660 reports in 2020-21, compared to just 330 in the previous financial year.

Consumer Affairs Victoria received more than 2000 reports of scams during 2020-21, with

the top five being: • money transfer scams (the promise of a cash refund for a fee) – 660 reports •phishing (stealing personal details via email, text, or voicemail) – 567 reports •mixed call and text message scams – 315 reports • investment and financial scams – 182 reports • fake tradies – 105 reports These figures make this year’s scams awareness week theme – Let’s talk scams – very timely.

Many people who experience a scam never report it to anyone

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Victorians are encouraged to keep the conversation going by reminding their family and friends to do their research before sending any payment to online sellers and to never give money or bank details to claim a prize.

Further information about scams and how to protect yourself can be found at consumer.vic.gov.au/scams.

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NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 17th 2021 - Page 17

Country Club Midweek pennant bowls BOWLS midweek pennant is continuing without any COVID lockdowns but all our - Contributed training/practising appears not to help us gain all the points.

We played Wedderburn last Tuesday with only the team of Heather Esmore, Colleen Bond, Yvonne Templar and Rhonda Pole winning 27-14.

Wedderburn had to call on the men to field their team (half) whereas we consisted of all ladies which I c o n s i d e r m a ke s i t difficult to get the chocolates!!

Final scores were Wedderburn 75 shots to Country Club 48 shots.

We can only look forward to our games for the rest of the season.

Above: Cold but happy. Darren Shepherd and Ron Hollis the first winners at Twilight Bowls this season.

Above: Trish Goode of St. Arnaud Country Club shows her style against Wedderburn.

Country Club Sinks Saints THE local bowls derby between St. Arnaud and the Country Club produced some competitive contests on the Country Club’s home green in last Saturday’s round 7 of the North Central Division 1 pennant competition. - Contributed The Country Club took an early lead leading by 8 shots after 10 ends, but they scored just 8 shots to St. Arnaud’s impressive 26 during the next 5 ends; giving the visitors a 10 shot lead.

Big Fight-back Ends 15 to 20 saw a remarkable gamechanging performance

by Country Club scoring a massive 31 shots to St. Arnaud’s miserly 5 shots, turning a 10 shot deficit into a 16 shot lead, which they more than maintained at games end.

St. Arnaud’s Phil McRae, Graham Simpson, Kerryn Dyke and Kell Bibby after leading Bob McGregor’s four by 18 shots, dropped 14 shots in 3 ends and held on for a 3 shot win, and score 2 valuable points for the losers.

First time Skipper St. Arnaud’s Glendon Hancock earned his elevation to skipper for the first time, and led his team well, going down by 3 shots to a well performed four, skipped by Mark Esmore.

The other winning Country Club four, skipped by Bill Rodger led Allan Jackson’s side for 24 of the 25 ends for a decisive 10 shot win.

The Country Club won 41 ends to St. Arnaud’s 34 ends.

Match Details P. McRae 30 shots def B. McGregor 27.

G. Hancock 24 lost to M.Esmore 27.

A. Jackson 20 lost to B. Rodger 30 St. Arnaud 74 shots lost to Country Club 84 shots- 2 points to 10 points.

Other Division 1 results:Charlton 75 shots def

Boort 68 shots 10 pts, – 2 pts.

Donald Golf 81 shots def Wedderburn 76 shots, – 8pts- 4 pts Wycheproof 81 shots def Donald 56 shots, 12 pts – 0 pts.

Ladder Pts Donald Golf 20 Charlton 20 Country Club 19 Wycheproof 14 St.Arnaud 12 Wedderburn 6 Donald 3 Boort 2 Division two St. Arnaud Division 2 bowlers lost two rinks and won one, going down by 14 shots overall to Wycheproof.

St. Arnaud’s winning four of Wayne Rourke, Brian Eccles, Garry Smith and Ron Hollis trailed Wycheproof’s G.

Allan 2-13 but won 13 of the remaining 16 ends, for a very good 10 shot win.

Match Details Division 2 St. Arnaud v Wycheproof.

W. Rourke 30 def G. Allan 20 G. McIntyre 15 lost to L. Milburn 28 G. Shaw 17 lost to J. Grylls 28 St. Arnaud 62 shots lost to Wycheproof 76 shots – 2 points to 10 points.

Other Results Korong Vale 78 shots def Donald Golf 63 shots 12 pts – 0 pts.

Boort 69 shots def Charlton 68 shots – 8 pts – 4 pts Wedderburn 76 shots def Donald 56 shots 8pts – 4 pts Ladder Pts Korong Vale 22 Wycheproof 20 Wedderburn 16 Donald Golf 10 Boort 10 Donald 6

Charlton 4 Country Club 4 St. Arnaud 4 Next Week’s games Div 1 - Boort v St. Arnaud.

Div 2 Boort v St. Arnaud

LAST Thursday evening, 29 bowlers braved the cold, windy, and at times wet conditions, to play in the first St. Arnaud Bowling Club twilight - Contributed competition for this season.

Twilight bowls was scheduled to start some weeks ago but like everything else had to be delayed until Covid restrictions allowed play to commence.

No doubt the adverse conditions kept some bowlers away, but it was a keen 10 teams that enthusiastically got into action.

After the 10 ends the winners were Darren Shepherd and Ron Hollis, 13 shots up, with the next best per-

formers being Tom Amos, Phil Lees and Naomi Lees, 11 shots up.

It was pleasing to welcome several new players, who soon responded well to some pre-game coaching, and seemed to enjoy their introduction to the game of bowls.

Twilight bowls will be held each Thursday for the next few weeks before a Christmas break, starting each Thursday evening at the St.Arnaud Bowling Club at 6.30pm.

A case of you win, and you lose too!

First time skip. St. Arnaud bowler Glendon Hancock who played well in his new role as skipper in Division 1 against Country Club last weekend.

Above: Who’s got the shot? Skippers Bill Rodger (C.C.) and Alan Jackson (St.A.) waiting to be told which team has the shot.

Page 18 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 17th 2021.

Brave Twilight Bowlers

BLUSTERY, cold weather with the chance of rain was not enough to deter the two St. Arnaud lawn tennis teams, Kara Kara and St Arnaud, as they ventured north with high hopes to Donald and - Contributed Charlton respectively.

High hopes as both teams were languishing at the wrong end of the North Central L awn Tennis Association premiership table.

Could the teams redeem themselves?

One did, the other nearly!

Facing second placed Charlton, St. Arnaud performed admirable coming up just a few games short of a win, 126 – 122 games (8 – 2 points).

The St. Arnaud Men’s Doubles combinations proved formidable winning all sets, (56-21 games), but the Charlton Ladies Doubles combinations proved equally formidable winning all sets but one (55-23 games) thus providing for an exciting Mixed Doubles contest, commencing with St. Arnaud 3 games to the advantage.

In the end Charlton proved just a tad stronger to claw back the advantage and nudge ahead for a win 50-43 games.

Three set winners for St. Arnaud were Will Jackson and John and Callum Goode,

while Sharyn Erwin and Chris and Caitlyn Goode provided inspiration with two tiebreakers, for one win and a loss.

Kara Kara was to fare much better, however, moving up the ladder with a timely win over Donald, 136 – 104 games (8-2 points).

Tracking similarly to the St. Arnaud team, the Kara Kara Men’s Doubles players dominated (51 – 24 games), while the Donald L adies players returned serve with an equally impressive performance winning 50-31 games.

Again, the final result for the day was determined by the Mixed Doubles matches but, on this occasion, Kara Kara held sway comfortably, winning all sets bar one, for a 54-30 games win.

Three set winners for Kara Kara were Thomas Watts, Ryan Weir as a Kara Kara’s first-time player, Sam Male, Duncan Jackson and Jack McRae. This Saturday the two St Arnaud teams do battle at home, so you are invited to head to the Lawn Courts to

enjoy an afternoon of tennis matches amongst the locals.

Great to see the enthusiasm of the Junior tennis players on Saturday mornings, and good turnouts for Wednesday morning’s Ladies social tennis, and Friday evenings for twilight tennis.

Tennis is riding a high as a family and family friendly sport, none more so than in St Arnaud, and so it presents the opportunity for budding players of all standards to play on our superb lawn courts.

Solution No. 10020 A G R C U R L E T I F O P E N E R E V E R S E R E T V E R E V I S R A N A S S E T R S A C H A S T H L S

E N A L R W R E V E E N C E P R S P E S E S L A L O C A T N I S O N E D L E F D E V O T E I N S I G A P E G E E L A N T I R S S

G A L A E D X E S R T E S D E N D S E

SUDOKU SOLUTION

St. Arnaud Football Club 2021 Presentations • From page 20.

Junior Presentation Award Winners:

Under 13's Best & Fairest, In Memory of Ken Ward Frankie Donald Runner Up Best & Fairest - Abby Weir Leading Goal Kicker - Aidan Wickham Most Consistent - Jack Batters Most Versatile - Otis Patton Most Disciplined - Fraser Burke Most Improved - Riley Winters Best Defender - Declan Kay Best First Year Player - Austin Lowe Best Team Player - Sean Bridgeman Coaches Award - Max Ezard Presidents Award - Talan Berryman

Above: (left to right) Back row: Aidan Wickham, Talan Berryman, Otis Patton, Frankie Donald, Abby Weir and Austin Lowe.

Front Row: Declan Kay, Sean Bridgeman, Jack Batters, Fraser Burke, Riley Winters and Max Ezard.

Under 16's Best & Fairest, Ron McNally Memorial - Tom Myers Runner Up Best & Fairest - Rory Bigmore Leading Goal Kicker - Rory Bigmore Most Consistent - Sam Male Most Versatile - Deon Tannock Most Improved - Damien Bridgeman Best Defender - Troy Anderson Coaches Award - Baxter Cheesman Committee Award - Owen Lowe

Right: (left to right) Owen Lowe, Damien Bridgeman, Troy Anderson, Sam Male, Deon Tannock and Tom Myers.

Seniors awards THE Senior Presentation was opened by President Alistair Egan and with the assistance of Club historian Tony Hull it was with great honor that the St. Arnaud Football Club announce the 2020 and 2021 Hall of Fame Inductees, Kevin Ward and the late Ian Fithall.

It was a significant moment that will be entrenched in the clubs history to have Kevin share his memories as a player with the events attendees, followed by Nick Fithall, who, with warmth shared his father’s love for the St Arnaud Football Club and community, where Ian's interest extended much past his playing career.

With the assistance from 2021 coaches Bob Egan and Jake Tillig the St. Arnaud Football Club 2021 Reserves and Senior vote counts were conducted following the opening.

Reserves Award Winners : Best & Fairest, Josh Watts Memorial Nathan McNally Runner Up Best & Fairest - Lochlan Flanagan

Leading Goal Kicker - Daniel Needs Most Consistent Jake Patching Most Determined Josh Hicks Most Improved Jake Male Best Team Player, Clint Ward Memorial Jarryd Kell Best First Year Player, Owen Baldwin Memorial - Jesse Wandel Coaches Award Bailey Durward Senior Award Winners : Best & Fairest, Pat Goode Medal - Billy Lovel Runner Up Best & Fairest - Angus Grant Most Votes in Feeny Medal - Conlan Gunn Leading Goal Kicker - Angus Grant Most Consistent Harley Durward Most Determined Mitch Egan

Ron Pole Best Backman - Nick Birthisel Most Improved - Will Bertalli Best First Year Player - Jake Male Coaches Award - Tom Bertalli Brian Lloyd Memorial, Club Person of the Year - Jamie Hope - Torney In closing Alistair thanked not only the days attendees and those that assisted in organising the day, but he gave thanks to the players, families, supporters, sponsors and tireless volunteers that persevered throughout the last 18 months, taking every opportunity possible to continue to play football.

The return of sport post covid lockdowns is unknown waters, however with the communities support and the LNP Development, 2022 is set to be an exciting year, on and off the park.

Above: Senior Award winners (left to right) Mitch Egan, Tom Bertalli, Harley Durward and Nick Birthisel.

Above: Reserve Award winners (left to right): Bailey Durward, Jesse Wandel, Lochlan Flanagan, Jarryd Kell and Jake Patching.

Front: Grace and Jack McNally holding trophies won by uncle Nathan McNally.

Above: St. Arnaud Football Club President Alistair Egan with Club Person of the Year Jamie Hope-Torney.

Left: Some of the late Ian Fithall’s family who were in attendance (left to right) Cam Fithall, Noel Fithall, Chris Dalton, John Dalton and Nick Fithall.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 17th 2021 - Page 19

Page 20 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 17th 2021.

SPORT

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St. Arnaud Football Club 2021 Presentations - Contributed

St. Arnaud Football Club

AFTER a season like no other, it was of great importance for the St Arnaud Football Club to finish the year off as it started, together.

With COVID-19 restrictions still playing a part in social gatherings the 2021 Presentations were held over 2 separate events on Sunday November 7th at the St. Arnaud Country Club.

The day kicked off with the Junior Vote Counts, welcomed

by Junior President Jamie Hope-Torney, and assisted by Junior Coaches, Hayden Torney and Zane Bigmore.

The years accomplishments were spoken of, with both Under 13's and Under 16's applauded for their efforts, rewarding them both with spots in the finals, and although disappointing that finals were interrupted, their hard work is still to be acknowledged.

• Cont. page 19.

UPCOMING EVENTS Junior PRE AGM Meeting Tuesday, November 23rd - 6.30pm Venue:- St. Arnaud Football Club *****************

AGM Wednesday, November 24th - 6.30pm Venue:- St. Arnaud Football Club - Long Room ALL WELCOME •Financial membership for voting rights is required, please see John Beggs prior to scheduled date Please contact:- Alistair Egan 0418 502 266 or Jamie Hope - Torney 0439 229 194 for any further information

Above: Tony Hull St. Arnaud Football Club Historian (centre) with Nick Fithall and Kevin Ward (right) at the Seniors Presentation day where Nick’s father Ian (2021) (deceased) was inducted into the Hall of Fame along with Kevin (2020).

FREE HOME DELIVERY

“When you’re hot, you’re hot” CHARLTON standardbred trainer Greg Norman was rewarded for his hard work and long hours with multiple successes last week.

In a 50 hour period from Thursday to Saturday at three different tracks, with three different drivers Greg tallied up three wins and a second.

In the 9.45pm race at not very warm Kilmore on Thursday the 2021 Ararat Cup winner “Zadaka” returned to form by defeating a handy field that included the 2019 Kilmore cup winner “San Carlo” and the 2019 Ballarat Cup second placegetter “Rackemup Tigerpie”.

Courtesy of a trademark patient drive from Ryan Sanderson “Zadaka” was still last in the 8 horse field at the 800m marker but rounded the field up coming out of the turn going to the line a comfortable 3.2m winner.

By 7.30am the next morning Greg had two horses in the float and was on his way to the day meeting at Shepparton.

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* Nectarines grey “Blue Coman”, driven by Greg Sugars was on his best behaviour in race 1 winning by 1.2m in a creditable mile rate of 2.02.9.

Stablemate “Apieceoflou” from an ordinary barrier position,11, was placed second in race 8.

The “icing on the cake” came about when the 4yo mare “Belladonna Girl” won the Breeders Crown Graduate Mares Free For All at Melton on Saturday night that started at 11.02pm.

Whilst most form students and tipsters gave the mare no chance, as indicated by her SP of $126, they didn’t count on the never say die attitude of the mare and her driver Kerryn Manning.

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Above: The first two winners of the Greg Norman stable treble “Blue Coman” and “Zadaka” with Greg and strapper Dixie Horig. only half a head but the Group 3 win would have been very satisfying for South Au s t r a l i a n b a s e d owners AB and T Cormack who also feature amongst the breeders of the daughter of US sire “He’s Watching”.

The Cormacks also are the owners of “Zadaka” and “Blue Coman” Winners from the Training Centre were not limited to the Norman stable though with a very confident drive from Denbeigh Wade on the Michael

Gadsden trained “Markleigh Jean” resulting in a win at Mildura on Friday night.

Another winner for Ryan Sanderson at Mildura took his season’s tally to 57, according to Harness Racing Australia’s figures.

105 Napier Street, St. Arnaud.

Telephone (03) 5495 2848

7 Days a Week

B RM za from 5.00pm Ph: 1300 416 461 Piz Phone Orders Taken & Delivered

Parmi Night This Sunday at Reid’s takeaway 5.30pm - 8.30pm

Organic Fertiliser 25kg Now $34.95 each 5961 Sunraysia Highway, St. Arnaud. (Next door to Elders) — Phone 03 5495 1422