25th October 2023

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St. Arnaud, Charlton, Wedderburn & Surrounding Districts

Est. 1864

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

Registered by Australia Post, Publication No. VAC 4217.

WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 25th 2023.

$2.00

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

(Incl. GST)

St. Arnaud Planned Burns prepare for summer fire threats PLANNED burns have been undertaken by Forest Fire Management Victoria in Murray Goldfields District more specifically to the north of the St. Arnaud township near the hospital.

Above: The trainees were given an area within the planned burn site to put into practice what they had learned during their training.

Around sixty fire fighters have been involved plus a D4 dozer in the burn off in the project with training sessions for 24 trainees conducted by 8 trainers, at Lord Nelson Park over the week and then practical sessions at the Goldfields Reservoir.

The planned burn at Firebreak Road is an area of approximately 115.3ha and 1.5km north-west of the township within the St. Arnaud Regional Park and within the

Bushfire Moderation Zone.

Thirty percent was burnt on Thursday and 70% on Friday.

The land management objective has been to develop fuel reduced areas of sufficient width and continuity to reduce the speed and intensity of bushfires.

The operational objective has been to achieve an overall fuel hazard of moderate or low over 70% to 90% of the planned area.

Above: The ground around trees to be protected is prepared so that the fire avoids that area.

Below left: The D4 dozer was on hand in case of any run away areas of fire.

Below right: FFV’s Lyn Medlyn Work Operations Coordinator discusses required distances with Alister Kirk FFV Field Operations Supervisor.

Below: The 24 project fire fighters attended a week of training at Lord Nelson Park.

Above: John Dunstan in front of the St. Arnaud Historical Society Museum fence.

Local keeps the museum in ship shape condition JOHN Dunstan has replaced pickets on the outside front fence at the St. Arnaud Historical Society Museum.

John had to cut and shape 13 new pickets out of recycled wood which he then used to replace pickets that had deteriorated from the weather.

The fence is now ready for painting with paint kindly donated from St. Arnaud Mitre 10.

Thank you, John.

Editorial Black and what?

No, this is when grey is considered black LAST year a record number of countries were rated as poor places for journalism in the World Press Freedom Index. This index warns that autocratic regimes are increasingly willing to crack down on independent media outlets. In countries including China, Russia, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan access to unbiased journalism without intervention from politicians is rare, with reporters in these places often facing threats to their wellbeing.

This week North Central News has experienced the best and the worst of praise and criticism for our edition last week. From ‘a dam good local paper full of interesting articles and the editorial was spot on’ to ‘the worst front page in history’, we were damn more than praised for our story ‘Powerlines info session turns into a shouting match and a no-go by organizers’. This is not the first time that we have been subjected to ‘disappointed’ residents not happy with what has been written in the North Central News, and probably not the last.

An interesting piece of research was found from K. Bowd from the University of South Australia is 2003 that is entitled ‘How different is ‘different’? Australian Country Newspapers and Development Journalism’, believes that country journalism is closer to non-Western journalism than to its city counterparts Ain Australia. That is, that in countries such as China and Russia where the media is tightly controlled by the government that the tone and F content published is close to propaganda. In China and Russia the control is held by the govE ernment, but in country Victoria/Australia, the control is held by the community.

Community newspapers are parochial and thereby the reason why they exist and prosper (although in a growing number of cases they are not prospering). One researcher believes that C the reason why country newspapers were different from their city counterparts was because they mostly only covered local news, had a close C relationship with their readers and were oriented towards a cohesive force in their local communities.

However, as a country newspaper the North Central News must speak and walk a difficult path – a path that is often expressed by two sides within a community, so in those circumstances what does the country paper do, particularly when they are closer to the readers?

People get very passionate when faced with threats to their lives and livelihoods or even their lifestyles. They get so passionate that they see black and white clearly but often see grey (or objectivity) as black. Clearly verbal attacks and criticism take their toll, but we at North Central News put out the weekly for you, the community, because we believe that it is important for the community to have a voice.

To those that do offer their support and thanks, we say thank you because without your support we would be left with only the criticism.

Do some members of the community think that they can call the shots on content in ‘their’ paper, or more correctly the bias that ‘their’ paper shows? If so, we are not talking about the freedom of the press, what those souls really want is a mouth piece for themselves, a mouth piece to sell their story.

Remember the old adage – ‘be careful what you wish for’, because these people might get their wish but it may be a community ‘newsletter’ with good news stories and nothing with any bite or substance.

To the Editor

Have you ever wondered what fuels anger?

Dear Editor Our spontaneous anger after quite randomly finding out our farm appeared in a big pink blob on a map.

Congratulations, you are in the draw to “host” transmission lines on Labor’s renewable highway. Anger is then tempered by determination and a resolve to find out more.

We go to TCV meetings, ask questions, no answers.

We go to another TCV meeting, more questions, no answers ...wash, rinse and repeat.

Oh yes and before you know it we’re angry again!

And these public meetings with TCV, I liken to parliament question time.

Scripted answers with incessant dodging and weaving to the grievance of the opposition.

QldTCV’s end game is4217 to not give you knowledge.

Indeed knowledge is 1 800 652 284 power and they want to keep you powerless.

Their business model is ruthless.

We are trapped in a corporate scenario where we have something they want.

Ted Whillier Their need is to satisfy overseas energy market investors. In Matt Trickey essence it’s money over people.

Never underestimate the power of community.

Our common spirit that has seen us through many a tragedy, drought, fire and flood.

We band together to protest, to write letters and emails, talk on the radio and television....hello, we are here, please listen.

But continually we face the TCV misinformation train as it drops spot fires here and there, in an attempt to create disunity and push the public to believe you need these transmission lines, there are no alternatives.

The box is opened and the dirty tricks begin.

TCV want our signatures for land access, they dangle cash incentives where the need to read the fine print is paramount.

Their lines include

Page 2 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 25th 2023.

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

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

‘it probably won’t hapknocking on front doors, pen’ and ‘there will be no but access via private need to give the money backyards. back if it doesn’t’.

The element of surThey’re wolves in prise is key. sheep’s clothing, they They made enquiries hunt in pairs, predomiaround town to find the nantly male. address of another They want to break woman and yes another the chain we so fiercely surprise visit. defend.

They are clever to Subsequently, they cover TCV badges. start to “soft” target The choice to visit women. rather than contact by Vulnerable elderly mail is dubious to say women, those who live the least. alone, All unwarranted D those who work from home and those intrusion to privacy who have land titles soleand denying the right ly in their names. of the woman to have It happened quickly someone present with over a couple of days in her.

Qld our area.

4217 next page.

• Cont.

Two men, who avoid A

St. Arnaud, Charlton & surrounding districts

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

SUBSCRIPTIONS Annual subscription for 12 months is only $144.00 (inc. GST), including postage and packaging.

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

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

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

1 800 652 284

North Central News is published weekly by Peter F Marland, 3279 Charlton/St.EArnaud 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 Ted Whillier selling price only.

C

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.

Matt Trickey

C

© Copyright 2023

No. 10111

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ACROSS 3 Little wave 8 Penitent 10 Beak 11 Came forth 14 Vast sea 17 Entertain 18 Large placard 20 Goading device 21 Slender shoot 23 Frozen shower 25 Hither 27 Prohibit 29 Serpents 30 Minute particles 32 Religious denomination 34 Full extent 35 Vibration 38 Insignificant 40 To one side 41 Ancient Jewish ascetics 44 Rowing implement 45 Restore confidence 46 Unrevealed fact

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DOWN 1 Exclusive story 2 S American mountains 3 Edge 4 Article 5 For each 6 Suffers 7 Expresses disapproval 9 Replenish 12 Openings 13 Tries to equal or excel 15 Heavenly body 16 Tries to do 19 Curved bone 22 Fuel 24 Jewish vestment 25 Whaling weapon 26 Duty lists 28 Fish trap 31 Utters 33 Stupid 36 Diminished by 37 Allude 39 Joint 42 Make a mistake 43 Consume

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70 Woods Street, Donald — 5497 1211 See this week’s solution on page 7.

To the Editor • From page 2.

They attempt to wear us down one link at a time.

The power must be intoxicating.

Our story is multifaceted and far bigger than any front page headline!

It is essential to know that there are many events that lead into public outpourings of emotion that the reader may have seen.

I have merely scratched the surface.

As a community we will not compromise our values.

We will protect our most vulnerable and champion our rights to be treated with common decency and respect.

We will continue to fight for our farming legacy, the environment we live in and the right of every Victorian to see a beautiful, unencumbered view.

This is home.

Anne Bryce Traynors Lagoon

High Court offers Hope Dear Editor, The community’s fight against the Western Renewables Link and VNI-West transmission projects continues in the Victorian Supreme Court.

While we await the verdict on whether Lily D’Ambrosio’s Ministerial Orders which seek to accelerate those projects are invalid, I am encouraged by other recent news that another grassroots legal battle, against a similar Victorian Government bad decision, has been won in the Federal High Court following a determined

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campaign by community members.

I refer to the High Court’s ruling that the Victorian Government’s tax on electric vehicles was invalid because it is beyond the State government’s constitutional authority to impose such an excise.

It was labelled the ‘worst renewable energy policy in the world’, but formed the centrepiece of Victoria’s Zero Emissions Vehicle Roadmap, a bizarre plan to “accelerate our drive to zero emission vehicles”, by taxing EV users.

Guess who signed off on Victoria’s EV plan, relying on powers to introduce a tax which the State had no legal right to do so? Energy Minister, Lily D’Ambrosio, that’s who.

Am I the only one to see a pattern of poor judgement, and of ministerial overreach?

Let’s all hope that the MCHPA’s decision falls the same way as the EV tax decision, and another set of bad Labor decisions is struck down.

What then for Lily D’Ambrosio?

In baseball you normally get three strikes and then you are out.

I argue that we should cut our losses with Lily’s plans at two strikes, and say she should be out!

Jim Phasey Myrniong

The Vote Dear Editor It’s sad that our indigenous people think the No vote was a snub to them.

I voted No because I don’t believe in changing our Constitution, for any

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reason, because like our flag, it stands for who we are and doesn’t need to be changed. Secondly, the government has the money and wherewithal to do whatever it takes to help these people, without changing our Constitution.

To me, this was just a red herring to hide the Governments lack of will, they are saying they can’t help unless the Constitution is changed; what nonsense.

Education has proven these Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island people are every bit as good and smart as anyone else and deserve to be treated equally which doesn’t, or shouldn’t mean legislation, just good old respect, and equal opportunities to get a good education.

Voting No does not change me into being racist, or lower my intelligence, as is being claimed by some.

If the question had just been whether or not I approve of equal opportunities for these people; without the reference to changing the constitution, my vote would have been a resounding YES. Val Salter St. Arnaud

St Arnaud Community Update Standpipe relocation Planning approvals for the relocation of the standpipe have now been received and the contract has been awarded to Halls Gap Plumbing for installation of the pipework that will run to the new standpipe location.

The standpipe should be fully operational by early next year.

Pressure improvements Approvals have been received to replace the Bowen Street main. The next step is to award a contractor for the works. We expect these works to be completed by mid-2024.

Further opportunities to improve pressure in St Arnaud will also be considered once works are completed to relocate the standpipe.

Gentle reminder All Victorian towns are subject to Permanent Water Saving Rules.

The Rules are in place at all times, except for when staged water !"# $%#$&'"() !($'(*& %!+(,'"- $'.(/&- (0&"!($"(1##!2(3$#0()(# $..! ( nozzle is just one of the ways we can use water responsibly.

To see all of the water saving rules, visit gwmwater.org.au/pwsr

Mental health issues Dear Editor, We write to your newspaper from the key not-for-profit, Mental Illness Fellowship of Australia, with some important messages for your readers.

We know that many Australians have mental health issues.

U n f o r t u n a t e l y, thousands and thousands of Australians are not getting help for those issues.

All too often, people end up in a hospital or an emergency department out of desperation because they just do not know where to go.

Our latest awareness campaign highlights the massive neglect of people in Australia who have a mental illness just has to stop.

We specifically want to highlight to readers that if you know somebody having difficulties with mental health issues, the first key thing to do is accept there may well be a problem and then reach out and see your GP.

• Cont. page 4.

SAVE

MARKET SQUARE Northern Grampians Shire

Community Engagement Policy NGSC when will we:

Do it once, do it right.

We trust in the Victorian Government’s plan to build kindergartens on-site or next door to state government schools.

Be addressed as an entire community Be informed of the Pre Prep commencement Receive an update on the project

Public Meeting - Postponed

savemarketsquareStA@gmail.com

Save Market Square

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 25th 2023 - Page 3

Working Dogs and their farmers learning new tips and tricks

St. Arnaud Cricket Club shed vandalised WHEN organisers of the St. Arnaud Cricket Club noticed that it looked like perhaps a few things had been ‘rearranged’ in their shed on last Thursday night, they set about to screw the door shut to deter any possible follow up.

Follow up there was and further damage was done when the offender/s gained entry by force the next night.

Jacob Patching said

that only a few soft drinks were stolen but the damage to the door was more extensive.

“The Crime Scene boys were up from

Melbourne yesterday and were taking finger prints and shoe prints.

“But we don’t know what will come of that.

“We also may get

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some footage from the Mill”.

There is some concern that the shed may have been broken into in off season too.

The St. Arnaud Cricket club is a local community club trying to sur vive by fundraisers and grants and it is heartbreaking when needless damage is caused.

WO R K I N G D o g training occurred last Thursday, October 19th hosted by FARMwell Grampians Region and supported by the St. Arnaud Agricultural Society, and it was a day filled with learning, connecting, and a whole lot of fun.

FXD Workwear Hoodies ................................................................$99.95 Bucket Hat.......................................................$39.95 Work Boots from .............................$189.95 WP-5 Lightweight Pants......$104.95 Work Shorts from ...............................$56.95 Work Socks ...................................................$27.95 LYAL EALES STORES •Camping •Disposals •Hardware •Homewares 59 NAPIER STREET, ST. ARNAUD. PH: (03) 5495 2021 Monday to Thursday 9am - 5.30pm; Friday 9am - 6pm; Saturday & Sunday 9am - 2pm

Page 4 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 25th 2023.

Above: Crime Scene officers from Melbourne attended the Cricket Club to take fingerprints and shoe imprints.

INSET: The damaged shed door.

To the Editor • From page 3.

Your GP will be able to give you all kinds of practical suggestions on how to best handle complex situations.

We would also like to let readers know that we have a special notfor-profit network called Finding North.

Put simply, it is a growing community on the internet that links people with mental health issues with others in a similar situation so that they can share their experiences.

To get information, just go to www.findingnorth.org.au It is estimated there are at least 154,000 Australians with a severe or complex mental illness.

We specifically highlight to readers, please do not suffer in silence.

Ask your GP for support and help and visit Finding North.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK If everything isn't black and white, I say, 'Why the hell not?'

- John Wayne

It is free for all readers to visit and can make a world of difference.

Yours sincerely, Tony Stevenson, National CEO, Mental Illness Fellowship of Australia.

Vin Gedye helped teach farmers and their beloved working dogs some new tips and tricks that they can implement whilst working the paddocks.

The event was all about hands-on learning.

Farmers and their dogs enjoyed small group sessions and one-on-one coaching.

Nicola from Physio Biz and Claire Harrison from Active Farmers also attended to chat about farmer health.

Bianca Kilpatrick also provided the farmers with some excellent Cobber Dog Food door prizes.

The Working Dog Training Workshop in St. Arnaud was a heartwarming success, leaving everyone with newfound skills and a deep appreciation for the tireless efforts of our working dogs.

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NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 25th 2023 - Page 5

Engagements Atherne [Teena] Readon and Ian Robert Johnson.

Sandra Lovel and Glenard Savage.

Kaye Smith and John Cannard.

L ois Jeanette Knights and John Andrew Kumnick.

Margaret Lynch and Neil Amos.

Kathleen Margaret Ward and Henr y George Gardiner.

St. Arnaud 60 Years Ago: October 1963 Weddings Nanette Corbel and Trevor Mitchell.

Jennifer Ann Williams and Charles Davies.

Page 6 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 25th 2023.

Valerie Runge and Neale Rowarth.

Births Bob and Marie Chapman nee Hines a son Drew Robert.

Les and Alice Pike nee Cheesman, a son Peter John.

Ron and Shirley Wright nee Aston a daughter Debra Maree.

Pat and Carmel Connellan nee Murray a son Timothy Patrick.

Ian and Maree Bicknell nee Langdon a daughter Dianne Maree.

Barr y and K ay Coleman nee McNally a daughter Debra Tracey.

Deaths Mrs Ellen Kenny age 91.

Mrs Edith Perry age 72.

Antonio Scilini age 84.

Charles Walter Supple age 75.

Edward Tracy age 76.

Walter Williams age 84.

Harold Carne age 74.

Mrs Mabel Chivers age 75.

George Jackson age 84.

Mrs Emma Mitchell age 85.

William John Wheeler age 59.

Football Donald won all three premierships at the grand final, which was held at St. Arnaud for first

time since 1956.

St. Arnaud players awarded Best and Fairest for 1963 – Seniors Jim Wilson, Seconds Gerald Cathcart, and under 16’s Ron Pole.

State School Sports Henty House won, and Championships won by Denise Chandler and John Cross.

Golf The final of the four-ball knockout was won by father and son Athol and Tony Wearne defeating Howard Burrage and Syd Hiles.

Births 1963 and 1964 1963 Debbie Shepherd, Michelle McKew, Wendy Evans, Christina Caine, Joanne Douglas, Phillip Bryce, Arnold Van Zyl, Bronwyn Chandler, Jillian Rickard, Debbie Reading, Elizabeth Crone, Sally Coulson, Samantha Freeman, Thomas McKenny, Robert Williams, Vaughin Schulz, Peter Douglas, Owen Hines, Peter Tillig, Murray Torney, Robert

- by Heather Pritchard Hutcheon, Phillip Clifford, Graeme Donaldson, Peter Burge, David Hall, Peter O’Shannessy, Darryl Baldwin, Phillip Goss, Trevor Austerberr y, Tom Connellan, John Meade, Debra Coleman, Jennifer McQuinn, Allan Morris.

1964 Sharon Hughes, Michael Young, Jan Bartholomew, Grant Simpson, Andrea Cadzow, Peter Hamilton, Vincent Smith, Dianne Evans, Francis McKew, Roger Wilson, Jonathan Dunn, Kerryn Dyke, Susan Penny, Peter Wall, Peter Battersby, Lisa Nevill, Paul Hines, Paula Lysaght, Christopher Arbuckle, Karen Bibby, Susan Griffith, Fleur Preece, Glen Rickard, Sue Wall, Susan Cadzow, Donna Driscoll, Peter Marshall, Warren MacDonald, Hugh Radford, Paul Verbeek, Dale Burke, Kareen Wellard, Tricia Hancock, Vikki Lynch, AnneMaree Scilini, Murray Rogers, Christopher Kinnersley, Michael Goss, David Marshall, Anthony Coleman, Anne Forster, Jenny Burge, Stephen Allen.

Anniversary of October 2022 floods can hit hard, but support is available TWELVE months ago, our region was impacted by a significant rain band bringing heavy falls into the Grampians region.

The rain continued for several days resulting in flash flooding across the Grampians and southern tributaries including Wimmera and Mackenzie River, Burnt Creek and Norton Creek.

Several towns across the Grampians Region were significantly impacted by the flooding.

Northern Grampians Shire Council Mayor, Cr Kevin Erwin said anniversaries of this kind can result in some people having strong

emotions or physical reactions.

“While uncomfortable, these reactions are normal and are often part of the healing process.

“We all experience disaster and its impacts differently, and for some people their journey is ongoing.

“The important message from council, is that if this anniversary does create an emotional reaction, you do not have to face it alone.

“Reaching out to people you care about

is a positive step and will help you and your loved one’s better deal with difficult emotions and experiences.

“If you are already involved in community activities, stay connected!

“If not, this is a good way to strengthen and build relationships with others in our community, some of whom may have also been impacted by the 2022 floods.”

Maintaining healthy routines and reducing stress where possible are important components of physical and mental wellbeing.

Anyone needing support at this time of

the year, or wanting to establish healthy routines, are advised to see their GP who can assist.

Anyone needing someone else to talk to can call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

“We are so proud of the positive work being carried out by some of the communities impacted by floods,” added Cr Erwin.

“They have really pulled together to assist each other with events that support good mental health and provide opportunities for relationship building connection and feelings of belonging.”

Slaty Creek Hall committee held a community BBQ involving Warren Davies the ‘Unbreakable Farmer’ who spoke about events in his life that tested his resilience, persistence and determination.

The Glenorchy Flood Recovery Group held a community Resilience Sausage Sizzle which provided an opportunity for impacted residents to connect and provide mutual support.

The Marnoo Supporters Group will hold a Dave O’Neil “It’s Time Laugh” comedy night and council is providing a Resilience

building day for Glenorchy residents late October.

This day will further develop capacity, skills and leadership within the community to manage and better understand disaster and its effect on communities while building on the community's strengths.

Farmers can access free, short-term, confidential psychology support to help them deal with immediate, or compounding, issues related to mental health through the Farmer Online Assist Program.

Farmers in our region who need men-

tal health assistance are encouraged to register online at https:/farmerhealth.org .au Council is fortunate to have funding through Emergency Recover y Victoria funded by the Victorian and Federal governments to create opportunities to connect and upskill community members impacted by disaster.

If your community was impacted by the October 2022 floods and you are interested in holding a community event or activity, please contact Rachel Whittaker on 03 5358 051.

Roads still in ruins one year after state-wide flood emergency THE Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) says more than one year after Victoria’s devastating 2022 flood event, the state’s crumbling roads are worse than ever and continue to fall into disrepair.

Recent statistics from self-reporting app, Snap, Send, Solve reveal an enormous 272% increase in pothole reports in Victoria over the last 12 months and VFF President Emma Germano said the buck must stop somewhere.

“It’s been more than a year since parts of Victoria were inundated with the worst flooding in recent memory, completely tearing apart an already collapsing regional road network.

“Yes, some parts of the network have been fixed, but by and large regional Victorians are driving on completely unsafe and deteriorating roads.

“Road maintenance funding just keeps going backwards, so it’s no wonder why our roads keep going from bad to worse.

“These half-baked patch-up jobs on our major regional arterials and highways are just putting a band aid over the problem and getting

Solution No. 10111 S A R I P P L E O C O N T R I T E N E B O D E M E R G E D J O C E A N M AMU S E P O S T E R S P U R C M TW I G S L E E T H E R E B A N A S P S A T OM S S E C T H R S P A N T R E MO R P E T T Y K A S I D E O E S S E N E S N F O A R R E A S S U R E N S E C R E T S R

us nowhere,” Ms Germano said.

Ms Germano says the VFF is seeking a comprehensive funding package in the next Victorian state budget help alleviate our regional road crisis.

“We need actual dollars in the budget over the next four years to give road managers certainty which is needed to properly plan and deliver maintenance and repairs.

“Dedicated funding for local government to repair road networks damaged in the 2022 floods must be a priority as well as reintroducing the Fixing Country Roads program to help local government are responsible for most of the state’s road network.”

Ms Germano said the Victorian Government needs to allocate resources to ensure that roads are not only repaired, but are improved in the process.

“We need a better approach to ensure that when we repair our roads, we are building them to a higher standard so they are more resilient to future natural disasters as well as increased traffic volumes and weights.”

“Regional communities deserve roads built for the century in front of us, not the one we’ve left behind,” Ms Germano said.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 25th 2023 - Page 7

Charlton 100 Years Ago: 20th – 24th October 1923 Accident

passing over his body, whilst his head struck against the kerbing, rendering him unconscious for over 24 hours; at the end of which time he awoke in the Melbourne Hospital, where, under the best attention, he appears to be slowly progressing towards recovery.

Friends of Mr Jack Mays will be sorry to learn that he met with a serious accident at Newmarket.

He was leading a horse attached to a butcher’s cart, when the animal became frightened, and plunging, knocked him down, one wheel

Obituary – Mr P. J. Jackson Perc Jackson was born at West Charlton on 20th May, 1889, and was the second son of the late James and Mary E. Jackson, now resident at East Malvern.

When the family

Above: St Joseph’s Tennis Team 1929-30. Back row (left to right) Bill Patton, Mrs Mick Heenan, Jack Scandolera. Centre Row: Kit Mahoney (Mrs Jack O’Connor), Joe Lazarus, Carlie Wall. Front row: Mary Soding, Jack Dullard, Father Kelly, Bill Killeen, (unknown)

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by Charlton Golden Grains Museum removed to Melbourne 22 years ago, Perc remained, and worked with Mr W. McEwen on his farm at Chirrup.

After 20 years in this district, Perc worked for a short time in Melbourne, finally going to Queensland, where he took up land.

When the Great War came, Perc enlisted in Queensland, and went overseas, fighting for King and country.

Invalided home after 16 months, with a shattered wrist, Perc turned his attention again to farming.

He purchased a property in the Teddywaddy district.

Five years ago he brought to his home as his bride, Miss Hettie Osler, who, with two little children now mourn his loss.

After a few short weeks of illness Perc died of Bright’s Disease.

Rifle Club At the annual meeting a creditable balance was shown,

Boort gets the Melbourne Cup for the Show THE Boort community has turned out to see the Melbourne Cup as it toured the town this past weekend.

The Cup made a special stop at the 135th Boort Show, thanks to the Victoria Racing Club (VRC) and 2023 Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour, which teamed up with Loddon Shire Council and Boort A & P Society.

Exactly a year on from the October 2022 floods, the appearance of the Melbourne Cup in Boort was accompanied by a range of activities, sponsored by flood recovery funding made possible from the Victorian and Australian governments.

Visitors to the Boort Show took the opportunity to get their photo taken with the $600,000 gold cup, to be presented to the winning owner of the Melbourne Cup race on Tuesday 7 November.

“Having the Melbourne Cup at the Boort Show certainly helped create an unforgettable experience,” Council’s Director Community Wellbeing Wendy Gladman said.

“Throughout a day of activities, the Cup trophy and the VRC

Page 8 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 25th 2023.

touring party weaved their way from the horse events and the ‘Fashions on the Field’ parade.

“A free photo booth, set up for community members to get a photo with the Cup, saw more than 600 photos printed on the day.”

Other activities included a ‘paint-yourown’ cup trophy for the kids, which also proved a hit, with dozens of the cup replicas hand-cut by the Boort Men’s Shed.

“These cups were beautifully decorated with paint, glitter and pompoms, adding a little extra sparkle to an already magical day of family fun,” Mrs Gladman added.

“Council would like to congratulate and thank Madeleine Scott, Marj Potter and the tireless work of the Boort Ag Show Committee for all their help with the tour and activities.”

The VRC’s Lexus Melbourne Cup tour party also brought smiles to aged care residents and their families when it visited Boort Hospital that morning.

Above: Winners of Heavyweight Tug-of-War Championship Commonwealth Bazaar, Donald, March 19, 1927 Standing: J.L. Clements, M.T. Hogan, P.J. Hogan. Sitting M. O’Brien, M.H. Hogan (captain), J. O’Brien (Anchor). inclusive of ammunition on hand.

Mr S. M. O’Brien resigned the captaincy, and nominated Mr B. Hodgson to fill his place.

Mr A. C. Dabron still holds the honorary position of secretary and treasurer.

Tug-O-War A Tug-O-War, in aid of the floral fete fancy stall, was held at St Joseph’s Hall. No. 1 Contest, open – 1st prize, £5; second £2 10/, three minute pull on cleats, 5 men a side, no limit to weight.

Charlton team (J. Dwyer, J, M, A. and C. Scandolera) defeated Wychitella team (J. McPherson, J. Donaldson, M. McKinley, A. Bream and M. Fitzpatrick).

Wooroonooke team (J. O’Brien, F. McLoughlan, P, T. and J. Hogan) pulled a bye with the Carriers.

Final – Charlton defeated Wooroonooke.

No. 2 Contest – 1st prize, £3; second prise £1, three minute pull on cleats, 5 men a side, weight limit, 55 stone.

Mill team (Jack Stewart, S. Purdon, E. Wilson, R. Nolting and P. Burton) defeated Teddywaddy team (J. Wells, J. Wright, V, A. and P. Sait).

Carriers’ team (C. J. Gane, H. Arnold, E. Scandolera, W. Dullard and R. Ostran), pulled a bye with Wooroonooke.

Final – The Mill team defeated the Carriers.

Property Sales Messrs Thomas Morrow and Co, under instructions from

Misses N. and S. Laffin, offered at public auction, their block of ground, situate in High Street, on which is erected a well-built weatherboard house containing six rooms, and conveniences, also stable and gig-shed, and fowl-run.

It was sold to Miss Nellie Laffin for £480.

Messrs Thomas Morrow and Co, instructed by Mr G. H. Hinkins, report having sold privately to Mrs Adelaide Scandolera for £400, his block of ground, divided into two yards and paddocks, situated in High Street, on which is erected a weatherboard cottage of six rooms, pantry, and vestibule; electric light throughout; flyproof doors and windows; four tanks; water laid on inside and out; outside improvements consist of dair y, cow-bail, washhouse, bath room, tool shed, loose box, feed-room, gig-shed and fowl-house.

Social and Presentation A happy social gathering was held at the Telegraph Hotel when Mr and Mrs W. Halligan entertained a number of friends.

During the evening it was stated that one of the objects of the gathering was to make a small presentation, in the form of a wallet containing bank notes, to Mr and Mrs Percy Spencer, as a token of respect and welcome to Charlton.

Although comparatively a newcomer Mr Spencer had already

made a host of friends and had recently entered on the joys of connubial bliss.

Mr Spencer assured those present that their kindness and good will were thoroughly appreciated.

After songs and instrumental numbers, supper was served, and the proceedings concluded with a vote of thanks to Mr and Mrs Halligan.

St Joseph’s Tennis Club A large crowd of tennis enthusiast and visitors assembled at St Joseph’s courts for the official opening.

Very Rev. Father Doyle, of St. Arnaud, performed the opening ceremony and congratulated the members in having erected two such magnificent and well equipped tennis courts.

Rev. Father Ryan, of Mildura, one of Victoria’s leading players, gave some practical hints to beginners.

Rev. Father Gleeson, president of the club, welcomed the visitors.

The two new courts are beautifully situated at the rear of St Joseph’s church and were in first class order.

Ever ything has been provided in the way of equipment – two new tennis nets, an up-to -date dual umpires’ stand, a spacious pavilion and onlookers’ benches surround the courts.

The energetic secretary is Mr W. Killeen.

(Information from East Charlton Tribune)

Exciting horse sport Campdrafting coming to Charlton COMING to Charlton is an exciting new horse sport called Campdrafting, a sport involving cutting a cow out of a herd and then manoeuvring it around a course.

The rider has under 40 seconds to showcase their cattle and horsemanship skills. With entries already closed organisers are expecting approximately 170

Left: Ash Sheahan riding Kneipps Stella.

PHOTO: Jo Thieme Photography.

competitors to participate travelling from Victoria, SA and NSW. The Charlton Campdraft Club are proud to bring this new sport to the town of Charlton and invite the locals to come and check it out.

Events will be running all day Saturday and most of Sunday with plenty of seating,

food, drinks and even some shopping to be available.

Saturday night the horses and cattle will be put to bed and Whitey’s Ferret racing will be out to provide some entertainment for kids and adults alike.

The Campdraft will be held on 4th and 5th November at Back St. Arnaud Road.

The organisers thank their sponsors and the Charlton community for making this happen.

Above: Tahlijia Sheahan riding Goose.

- PHOTO: Kathy Gabriel Photography.

Above: School Leaders, Eliza Scarce, Duncan Kirk and Noah Hando, welcome many volunteers.

Primary School thanks their Volunteers The students at the St. Arnaud Primary School held a Morning Tea last week to say ‘Thank you’ to all their volunteers who have supported and contributed to the teaching and learning programs and made it possible for more opportunities for students.

Free Kinder: Enrol for 2024 Free Kinder is available for three and four-year-old children in Victoria at participating services.

Free Kinder is available in sessional (standalone) and long day care (childcare) settings, saving families up to $2,500 each year, per child.

At kindergarten, your child will: •

learn language, literacy and numeracy skills through play, art, music and dance

•

learn to express themself and make friends in a safe and caring environment

•

build skills and confidence before primary school.

Contact your preferred kinder service or local council to learn about how to enrol for 2024.

Visit: vic.gov.au/kinder

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 25th 2023 - Page 9

Get shearing done to prevent animal welfare issues AGRICULTURE Victoria is keen to remind people responsible for the care and management of sheep of their responsibility to manage wool length, so it doesn’t become excessive.

Agriculture Victoria Program Manager Livestock Welfare Compliance, Dr Sarah Chaplin said sheep with more than 1 year’s wool growth are highly susceptible to heat stress and disease and those with over-long

fleeces are also more likely to become cast lying on their side and unable to rise.

‘A person who allows sheep in their care to grow excessively long fleeces may be exposed to cruelty provisions of the Prevention of

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

Nutrien Harcourts Real Estate team Sharlene Bertalli: 0447 952 320 2 2 4 Drum: Damian 0428 952 284 13-19 Napier Street, St. Arnaud

Cruelty to Animals Regulations 2019.

‘Under the regulations, a person must not allow the fleece of a sheep to grow to a length greater than twice the average annual growth for the breed of sheep or more than 250mm (whichever is shorter).

Dr Chaplin said most sheep producers undertake shearing annually and won’t have issues complying with this requirement.

‘People that keep sheep as pets also need to ensure they plan ahead and arrange for their sheep to be shorn annually.’

Dr Chaplin said all people who own or manage sheep must take appropriate actions to prevent their sheep’s wool becoming over-long.

‘Sheep with excessive fleece length are at

Making quality hay THERE are two aspects to making quality hay, starting with quality forage, and curing the forage to the appropriate dry matter content in as shorter time as possible.

Above: Sheep with excessive fleece length are at increased risk of heat stress increased risk of heat stress, becoming cast and serious animal health issues such as flystrike.

‘This regulation applies to anyone responsible for sheep, including sheep kept for commercial or hobby reasons.

Anybody who owns or is in charge of sheep can be fined for having sheep with excessive wool growth,’ she said.

Specific complaint regarding livestock welfare should contact Agriculture Victoria on 136 186 or aw.complaint@agriculture.vic. gov.au. For more detail please visit the report webpage.

LAND AUCTION

When to cut forage for hay is a trade-off between quality and quantity.

As the crop or pasture develops a seed head and reaches maturity the yield increases, however the quality declines.

The quality decline is a result of decreased metabolisable energy and crude protein, along with an increase in fibre.

H o w e v e r, w i t h cereal crops for example, it can be hard to cure if cut before the seed head has fully emerged.

Project 3030, which was run in the early 2000’s showed it was possible for a wheat yield at the boot stage to yield 7.9 tonnes dry matter per hectare with 10.2 megajoules of metabolisable ener-

gy per kilogram of dry matter.

At the soft dough stage the yield increased to 10.9 tonnes dry matter per hectare, but metabolisable energy dropped to 9.3 mega joules per kilogram of dry matter.

Cutting height of 15 centimetres (cm) is normally recommended for cereal crops.

Cutting higher will increase the quality but reduce yields while cutting below will increase yields but reduce the quality (with increased stem).

Leaving 15 cm also allows for the curing fodder to sit on the stalks, allowing airflow under the windrow, reducing curing times and decreasing potential

by Sarah Clack, Agriculture Victoria Dairy Extension Officer contamination from dirt and rocks.

Once the forage is cut the aim is to get the forage to the target dry matter content in as shorter time as possible to reduce dry matter and quality losses from plant respiration and potential rain damage.

Ideally hay should be baled at 10 to 15% moisture.

Hay should not be baled over 18% moisture as there is risk of spoilage from microbial activity and the heat generated may result in hay fires.

For more information talk to your agronomist or for our dry matter calculator visit : Dr y matter calculator, Tools and calculators, Support and resources, Agriculture Victoria.

GOWER EAST - ST. ARNAUD - “WILLIAM’S” 169.07 HECTARES OR 417.78 ACRES - A/C KR & EL Pole AUCTION: THURSDAY, 26TH OCTOBER 2023, 11.00AM AT COONOOER BRIDGE COMMUNITY HALL

123 m2 Land size

4

2

2

UBURB | 00 Name Street, NSW 0000

nutrienharcourts.com.au

GOOD CROPPING COUNTRY WITH CREEK FLATS AGENT REMARKS: Good rising arable soil with a black ridge.

Not cropped for 20 years.

Spring fed dam, 4 dams in total, in 2 titles with 5 paddocks.

For further particulars & inspections: 13-19 Napier Street, ST. ARNAUD VIC. 3478

Office: 03 5495 1722 Damian Drum: 0428 952 284 Sharlene Bertalli: 0447 952 320

TERMS: 10% deposit on signing, balance in 60/90 days or earlier by agreement.

Week ending Wednesday 18 October 2023

IN welcome news to sellers across the country, the Australian wool market has recorded a healthy increase this week, driven by solid price rises in merino fleece types.

There were originally 43,041 bales rostered for sale and some industry observers feared that the market would struggle with this quantity.

These fears turned out to be unwarranted as the market opened stronger and then slowly but noticeably increased as the series progressed.

Worth noting however, the national of fering reduced to 39,157 bales, which was very similar to the previous week, after 9.0% of the offering was withdrawn prior to sale.

The movements in the individual Micron Price Guides (MPGs) for merino f leece finer than 21.0 micron ranged between plus 1 and plus 56 cents.

The AWEX Eastern

Page 10 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 25th 2023.

Market Indicator (EMI) rose by 11 cents for the week, closing at 1,139 cents.

The crossbred and oddment sectors went against the trend of the overall market recording losses.

These falls prevented the EMI from recording a larger increase.

The market was best described as steady for the entire series, this was highlighted by the movements in the EMI which were plus 6 on day one and plus 5 on day two.

Most sellers across the country were prepared to accept the prices on offer, nationally the passed in rate was just 4.7%, this was the lowest passed in rate since October last year, when the EMI recorded a

National Offering Centre North South Sth NZ West Total

Week 16 16 16 16

Days 17, 18 Oct 17, 18 Oct 17, 18 Oct 17, 18 Oct

Offering 10,469 21,029 0 7,659 39,157

Future Offerings 17

NUTRIEN ST. ARNAUD DOES NOT WARRANT THE ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS OF THE INFORMATION CONTAINED ABOVE

— By Glendon Hancock

24, 25 Oct

Source - AWEX

42,117

52-cent rise, Despite the EMI being 184 cents lower than this time last year, the season to date passed in rate is currently 8.9%, this is 4.1% lower than the corresponding sale of the previous season.

Next week the national offering is forecast to increase.

42,117 bales are currently expected to be offered in Melbourne, Fremantle and Sydney.

Ind.

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

Melbourne 1111L

+5

1702 1582 1512 1444 1397 1360 1328 1301 1254n

+27 +21 +19 +16 +21 +26 +14 +1

584 378 363

-28 -17 -9

682

-17

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 25th 2023 - Page 11

EMPLOYMENT

MDHS has a number of positions available across all three campus: Maryborough, Avoca & Dunolly: Please visit our website for more information.

MEDICAL IMAGING RECEPTIONIST PART-TIME ST. ARNAUD HOSPITAL The St. Arnaud Hospital is looking for a reliable, self-motivated Receptionist to work in the Medical Imaging Department.

This position is permanent part time, one day a week (Thursday) 9am to 5pm (7.5 hrs) plus relieving in both St. Arnaud and Maryborough when necessary.

The successful candidate must possess excellent interpersonal and computer skills, a professional demeanor and solid communication and organisation skills.

MEETINGS

Saint Arnaud Community Kitchen Inc. No. A0117427X

For further information and a copy of the position description, please visit www.mdhs.vic.gov.au and select ‘Careers’ then ‘Vacancies’. For additional information, please contact Rowena Newell – Customer Excellence Team Leader via rnewell@mdhs.vic.gov.au or on 5461 0422.

Annual General Meeting 2023

Applications are to include a covering letter, resume and response to the key selection criteria. Applications for these positions close on Sunday, 5th November 2023.

This will be held Tuesday 7th November 2023 @ 2.30pm In The Perry Room

MDHS is an equal opportunity employer. Appointments are subject to a satisfactory National Police Check and Working with Children’s Check. NDIS Workers Screening will be required for workers identified as working within a risk assessed role.

TO ADVERTISE PH: 5495 1055

Pebble Church Heritage Association

AGM Thursday 2nd November 7pm, Community Meeting Room Shire Offices All Welcome

WHATS ON

MGS Symphony Orchestra Tour 2023 Wycheproof Shire Hall Sat. 9 December, 7.30pm Pre-booking Tickets: $12.50 adults (children & school students under 18 years free), places are limited.

Book at Wycheproof Community Resource Centre or online at https://www.trybooking.com/CMMGB (a booking fee applies)

FOR SALE

Job Opportunities Campus Base Negotiable • Enrolled Nurse Traineeship • Communications and Marketing Officer • Home Care Coordinator • Home Care Support Worker • Clinical Support Nurse • Graduate Registered Nurse • Graduate Enrolled Nurse Birchip • Registered Nurse • Enrolled Nurse Charlton • Food and Domestic Service Assistant • Enrolled Nurse • Associate Nurse Unit Manager • Infection Control Nurse Donald • Campus Manager St Arnaud • Enrolled Nurse • Food and Domestic Service Assistant Wycheproof • Enrolled Nurse • Associate Nurse Unit Manager • Nurse Unit Manager • Registered Nurse

Enrolled Nurse Traineeship Diploma of Nursing Exciting new opportunity!

2 Year Fixed term contract, full time Limited spaces at each campus East Wimmera Health Service (EWHS) is a small rural health service in the Buloke and Northern Grampians Shires with campuses in Birchip, Charlton, Donald, St Arnaud and Wycheproof.

EWHS is seeking enthusiastic, passionate and motivated people to begin their career in nursing through our Enrolled Nurses (EN) Trainee program. Excellent opportunity for those who have always wanted to be a nurse, or someone who is looking for a career change but can’t afford to not work while they study.

Entry into the Traineeship is dependent on successful admission into the Diploma of Nursing course of study. Successful applicants will commence the Enrolled Nurse (EN) Traineeship Program in early 2024 (course duration is two years).

Trainees will be paid per hour for their study time and placement. Throughout the traineeship, 400 hours of supervised clinical experience will be completed across East Wimmera Health Services five campuses.

A position description is located on our website at: https://ewhs.org.au/careers To apply: An application incorporating a response to the key selection criteria (listed in the position description) and a CV/resume including the names of two professional referees, is to be e-mailed to the Human Resources Manager, applications@ewhs.org.au

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

Enquiries to: Amanda Larcombe, Clinical Education Coordinator on 03 5477 2234 or amanda.larcombe@ewhs.org.au

Need Employees?

Applications close: 5:00pm Sunday 29 October 2023

Advertise your position in the North Central News Employment Section Phone: (03) 5495 1055

All appointments are subject to a satisfactory police records check, Victorian ‘Employee’ Working with Children check and immunisation clearance (including annual influenza immunisation and 3 doses of immunisation against COVID-19).

All employees must be willing and able to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when required.

East Wimmera Health Service is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing a diverse and inclusive workforce

Page 12 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 25th 2023.

GIFT VOUCHERS available IDEAL GIFT FOR ANY OCCASION at St. Arnaud Allsorts

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

FOR SALE Rotary Club of St. Arnaud

Traditional Rum & Brandy Fruit Cakes

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

DEATH

Banyena Road Rehabilitation Works

HUFER AT YOUR SERVICE

WANTED TO BUY

WANTED Self Storage TO BUY Sugar gum plantations

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

Firewood trees

0409 337 276, Luke:

0458 885 266

AT YOUR SERVICE

A little sister for Angus, Hamish and Liam.

Solicitor 116 Napier St., St. Arnaud

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

For all your Hair and Beauty NEEDS

JOE PATERSON

Happy 90th Birthday

Karen@klp.net.au

Dear Joe, We hope you have a wonderful day

RELOCATED

Love always Allison, Louise, Geoff and family

Ph: 5495 2595

Ph: 5495 1306 ~ OPEN ~ Monday to Friday

TO ADVERTISE Phone: North Central News 5495 1055

Kirsten and Mark are excited to announce the arrival of

BIRTHDAYS

Top of the Town Beauty Salon

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

110 Napier St., St. Arnaud

GOOD - Ronald Leslie (Ron) 27/01/1946 - 18/10/2023 Aged 77 Dearly loved Husband of Lyn for nearly 47 years.

Loved and devoted Father of Josie, Maxine, Darren (dec), Sharon and Melanie.

Father in Law of Darren, Chris, Tim and Rachael.

Much loved Pop of Thomas, Jack, Lara, Abby, Nick, Caileb, Chelsy, Reagan, Xavier, Liam, George, Oliver and Patrick.

Another granddaughter for Sharon and Wes Polkinghorne, Jennifer (dec) and Philip Kerr and Hanna Hawking.

St. Arnaud Serenity Storage

Phone Marcus 0427 489274

KERR (Polkinghorne)

on the 17th October, 2023

Hayley:

Firewood logs

DEATH

Zali Alice

(For Cropping) (Green or dead)

BIRTH

Nicola Kirk Physiotherapist Over 15 years experience Open Mon to Fri 63 Napier Street, ST. ARNAUD

0400 451 432 or 5495 1108

DECLARATION Fire Danger Period Td` Bde`a Oaae^`o la BE@ tehh ]` ekqol_r^ekc qd` Eeo` C[kc`o P`oel_ alo [hh h[k_ teqdek qd` jrke^em[heqe`p hepq`_ ]`hltҼ Td` Eeo` C[kc`o P`oel_ tehh ^ljj`k^` [q dlrop lk qd` _[q` pdltk [k_ rkh`pp s[oe`_ ]v [ pr]p`nr`kq _`^h[o[qelkҿ tehh `k_ [q dlrop lk M[v Ҽ Municipality

Happy

80th Birthday Bill Cole Dad, Grandpa and Great Grandpa.

We hope you enjoy your special day with family and friends on the 29.10.2023.

We love you very much and are so proud of you.

Keep being the farmer you were always meant to be, your love of the land and our family is so true.

Your loving family. xxxx

Date of Commencement

Mildura Rural City Council

30/10/2023

Gannawarra Shire Council

06/11/2023

Swan Hill Rural City Council

06/11/2023

Yarriambiack Shire Council

06/11/2023

THANK YOU THANK YOU Many thanks to the Carapooee and Kooreh CFA for their prompt response to a grass fire on our property.

Peter and Anthea.

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Rubber Stamps D031PA

>Ã Ê ivviÀ > Ê ivÊ"vv ViÀÊqÊ

North Central News (03) 5495 1055

We are left with many memories of a great and kindhearted Husband, Father and Pop. He will be loved and missed by all of us.

Now at Peace - Reunited with his Son GOOD - Ronald Leslie (Ron) 27.01.1946 - 18.10.2023 Son of the late Vera and Harry Good, much loved brother of Pat (Mathews), Maureen (Belleville), Leon (dec), Joy (Gould), Barbara (Skinner), Mervyn (dec) and Des. Brother-in-law and great mate to Kevin Mathews, Bernie Belleville (dec), Robyn, Peter Gould, Garry Skinner and Christine.

R.I.P. Ron. The pain has all gone.

A hard working and admirable uncle, will miss the laughs.

Happy memories to cherish.

Deb and Kelv (dec), Kelly, Danny, Ruby, Mia and Tessa. Matt and Jess. Friend to Pete.

Great friend, mentor, working mate and uncle. Work won’t be the same without the laughter and jokes we shared. Rest easy Ron. Chris and Hannah.

GOOD - Ronald Leslie (Ron) Your influence and guidance is “immeasurable”.

Certainly going to miss the banter.

Forever respected, forever remembered.

Your mate Danny Wright.

The President and Committee of the St. Arnaud Turf Club offer their sincere condolences to the Hufer family on the passing of Robert.

Rob selflessly gave much of his time to help out at the club for many years, and will be fondly remembered by all.

JONES (Callaway) - Inez May passed away peacefully after a short illness in St Arnaud on Oct. 21st 2023, aged 91 years. Loved wife of Bill (dec) and loving mother and mother-in-law of Chris and Lorraine (dec) Jones; Sue (Mehlert); Dianne and Kevin Glenton; Ricky and Julie Jones.

Treasured Nan of Shane, Amanda; Rick, Phillip, Chelsea, Ryan; Matthew, Tim, Mark, Erin; Melinda, Danielle, Kimberley and their partners.

Adored Great Nanny I of Benji, Andie, Lleyton, Patrick; Riley, Violet, Daisy; Ava, Felix; Tahlia, Olivia, Jayden; William, Harry; Jaxon, Maddy, Hayley; Baylin, Lylah; Dante, Oliver, Alexis; Willow and Louie.

Re United with Dad

TO ADVERTISE PH: 5495 1055

As part of council’s Capital Works Program 2023-24, we would like to inform residents and road users of the upcoming rehabilitation works taking place in the Banyena area.

Works will be located on the Banyena-Pimpinio Road between Banyena Silo and Banyena Minyip Roads. A full road closure of this section will be required for the duration of the works with detours in place via Stawell Donald Road, Wimmera Highway and Stawell-Warracknabeal Road.

Local traffic will be permitted for property access only with care to be taken through work zones adhering to the posted speed limits.

Works are to commence, with road closures in place from 30 October and will take up to six weeks with an estimated completion date of 8 December 2023.

For any concerns, contact Hayden Harvey on 03 5358 0511.

BRENT McALISTER CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

KELL FUNERALS Est 1860

PRE PAID FUNERALS AVAILABLE 24 HOURS

Ph: 5495 1043

136 Napier Street St. Arnaud

NAFD Member

Birthday wishes to: October 25th Paul (Jock) Bibby Darby Clohesy Luke Garton Andrew Harvey Christine Richard October 26th Nicholas Birthisel October 27th Bruce Gifford Kylie Disanto

October 28th Joy Cross Kim Allen Paul Tillig October 29th Rebecca Postlethwaite October 30th Nell Cameron Mark Jorgensen Margaret Pritchard Anika Torney October 31st Hannah Morris

Saturday, 4th November 2023 12pm Matinee 6pm Evening show St. Arnaud Town Hall, Napier Street, St. Arnaud

TICKET TICKETSALES SALES Saturday, 28th October 9am - 11am Friday, 3rd November 5pm - 6pm St. Arnaud Health & Fitness 63 Napier St, St. Arnaud JENNAE POLKINGHORNE - 0409 579 788

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 25th 2023 - Page 13

FUNERAL

DEATH

McKAY (Richards) - Dorothy May passed away peacefully on the 18th Oct. 2023, aged 92 years.

Daughter of the late Isabel and Bert Richards.

Loved wife of Lindsay (dec). Much loved and respected mother and mother-in-law of Sheryl and Alan Broughton; Lorraine and Robin (dec) Barrance; Ian (dec); Barbara and Alan Kell; Barry and Joanne McKay; Judith and David Flaimer. Cherished Nan of 12. Great Nan of 21 Great-Great Nan of one.

A life dedicated to her family, friends and community. God’s hand has been on Mum throughout her life.

We especially saw this in her end of life here on earth, as she suffered no pain.

God gave her rest by making her tired.

And she always thanked God because she felt His blessing in her life.

A strong and courageous lady.

In accordance with Dorothy’s wishes a Private Funeral will be held.

KELL FUNERALS ST ARNAUD NFDA

EST: 1860

5495 1043

OWER - Reverend Robert William 1934 - 2023 Formerly of Wycheproof. Dearly loved brother of Beth, Brother-in-law and special friend of Graham Curnow.

Fond uncle Bob of Jan, Geoff, Lynette and their families.

Passed away peacefully at home in Ballarat.

Forever in our hearts

POSTLETHWAITE (Granland) - Joan Olive Loved Sister-in-law of Allen and Yvonne, Aunt of Neale and Judy, Trevor and Jo, Brian and Belinda and their families.

Will always be remembered for a cheery laugh, life long friendship and always willing to help anyone, anywhere, anytime.

Thank you Joan.

GOOD - Ronald Leslie The Funeral Service to celebrate Ron’s life will be held at the Charlton Park (Football Club), Calder Highway, Charlton, on FRIDAY (October 27th at 1:00pm).

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

JONES POSTLETHWAITE (Granland) - Joan Olive passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on the 18th Oct. 2023 aged 80 yrs. Loved wife of Roy and loving mother of Cheryle and Adele; Kellie and David; Bronwyn and Kelly; Cameron and Josie.

Treasured Grandma Joan to Reuben, Audrey; Chloe, Declan, Jack; Ali, Jessica, Nicholas; Maddy and Xavier Our Queen right until the end

POSTLETHWAITE - Joan Olive The St. Arnaud Hospital Foundation is saddened by the passing of their fellow Trustee Joan.

A dedicated Trustee who will be sadly missed.

The Trustees extend their sympathy to Roy and her family.

TEUSNER - Clive Langdon 19/2/1935–20/10/2023 Passed away peacefully at 88 years old, surrounded by his loving family.

We will dearly miss our loving husband, father and Poppy.

Our Clive will forever be remembered and always in our hearts.

Rest in Peace.

St. Arnaud Netball Club Are seeking Coaches for the 2024 season!

Available Positions

SENIOR COACHES

A service of celebration for Mrs. Inez Jones will be held in the Anglican Church Old Cathedral St. Arnaud on THURSDAY (Oct.26th) at 1.00 pm. The cortege will then leave for the St. Arnaud Lawn Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers donations to Cancer Research.

Envelopes at service KELL FUNERALS ST ARNAUD NFDA EST: 1860

5495 1043

POSTLETHWAITE A service of celebration for Mrs. Joan Postlethwaite will be held in the St Arnaud Uniting Church today WEDNESDAY October 25th at 1.00 pm. The cortege will then leave for the St Arnaud Lawn cemetery.

KELL FUNERALS ST ARNAUD NFDA EST: 1860

5495 1043 TEUSNER - Clive Langdon The Celebration of Life for Mr Clive Teusner will be held at the Geelong Memorial Park Crematorium Chapel, 110 Burvilles Road, Armstrong Creek on MONDAY (30th October) commencing at 11am.

In lieu of flowers, donation envelopes will be provided for Dementia Australia, at the service.

A Grade, B Grade & C Grade Fitness Coach

JUNIOR COACHES Under 17 Under 14 Net Set Go

TO ADVERTISE PH: 5495 1055

Coaches will be supported by the committee of management.

St. Arnaud Netball Club is a family friendly club, with a welcoming atmosphere that is invested in the growth, development and success of our Club and players.

Qualifications: Working with Children’s Check and Foundation Coaching Qualification (can be completed online prior to April 2024).

Role: Development of weekly training sessions and team selections for game day. Attendance to try-outs, grading days, coaching meetings and Club Functions. Compliance with Club selection policy and by-laws.

A reimbursement package is available to all coaching positions.

For further information or to apply please contact: Torri Tillig Mobile: 0428 666 385 Email: torri.tillig@gmail.com

St. Arnaud 100 Years Ago: 19th - 25th October 1923 Hospital wood bee This year there were not as many vehicles in the procession to the hospital, as several waggon loads had been delivered previously.

Waggons in procession – R Harman and Son of Carapooee [drawn by 4 horses], W J Phillips of St. Arnaud North [drawn by 3 horses], Wright Bros of St. Arnaud East [drawn by 4 horses] and P Hicks and W A Wright of St. Arnaud East, [drawn by 5 horses].

CHURCH NOTICES ST. ARNAUD UNITING CHURCH Sunday 29th October NO Service in ST. ARNAUD Cluster service in BIRCHIP 10.30am Rev. Gordon Wild PARISH OFFICE Chris & Rob Batters Pastorial Co-ordinators Enquiries 5495 6223

ST. ARNAUD CHURCH OF CHRIST Cnr. Queens Ave & Alma St. Learning more about Jesus Thu 26th October 10.30 a.m.: Faith Group Sun 29th October 10.00 a.m. Prayer Time 10.30 a.m.: Worship & Communion Speaker: Andrew George All welcome Enquiries: Brian Eccles Ph: 5495 2267

ANGLICAN PARISH OF ST. ARNAUD Christ Church Old Cathedral Friday 27th October 9am Morning Prayer St. Arnaud 9.30am Every Sunday Eucharist Bealiba 8am 2nd/4th Sunday All Welcome Locum Priest Archdeacon Peter Blundell Enquiries phone: Phone: 0427 694 720

DISTRICT CATHOLIC CHURCHES East Wimmera Parish BIRCHIP No Mass BOORT

Saturday October 28th 7.00pm Mass BANYENA

Sunday October 29th 11.00am

This Saturday, October 28 9AM - 1PM

Applications close 24th November 2023

Page 14 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 25th 2023.

Mass CHARLTON No Mass DONALD No Mass ST. ARNAUD No Mass WYCHEPROOF

Sunday October 29th 8.30am Mass Parish Coordinator: Noeline Hogan 0476 617 976

Drays in the procession delivered by T Johns, W Logue, J McCahon all of St. Arnaud and J Jamieson of St. Arnaud North.

Band disputes claim The St. Arnaud Brass Band wrote a letter to the Mercury disputing a statement by the Agricultural Society, who said they were paid £7-7-0 to play at the show and only played four items.

The Band said they had played 18 selections this year, more than any previous year, besides playing while marching to the show grounds.

Japanese village fair The Church of England ladies hired Barry Jaggers a professional artist travelling around Australia to set up his model of a Japanese Village in the Town Hall.

It took three day’s work to complete the elaborate setting which completely transformed the hall. There was a Punch and Judy Show, a large weird spider’s web, a Japanese illusion ‘Mimo San’ [story of old Japan] and conjuring tricks by Jack Harrington.

Local ladies, dressed in Japanese costumes served on the nine stalls around the main hall and in the supper room, where miniature flags, streamers and lanterns swung from the ceiling.

A large number of residents attended the fair, which ran for two days and one night.

Motor Waggon made to order Murrells and McNicol, hay and corn merchants and skin dealers have purchased a one ton chassis motor waggon designed and made to order by R S Reade of St Arnaud Carriage Works. There is an overhead cover to the driving seat and a tool box on either side of the motor, which is also equipped with a special contrivance for carrying tyres.

Traynors Lagoon Rifle Club A trophy donated by James Rowe was competed for at 300 yards and won by W Reither and J H Jesse with 47 each.

by Heather Pritchard

Angling Club Members travelled to Teddington Reservoir where the trophy donated by C Dolman was won by E J Cherry with a rainbow trout weighing 2¾ lbs and H Higginbottom took second place with one weighing 2lbs.

Hare shoot Forty shooters shot 114 hares at Gre Gre North, which raised £5 for the St. Arnaud Cricket Club.

Some of the shooters were, H Murrells, T McKenny, R and C Casey, W Zeuschner, H & W Morrison, J and C Marchment and R Pettit.

Publicans fined Archie Smith of the Manchester Arms Hotel was fined £5 for having the bar door open at 20 minutes past 11 o’clock and £2 for allowing 9 people on the premises – the 9 people were fined 10/- each.

Ellen Copley of the Royal Hotel was fined £5 for having the bar door open a 9-17 pm and £2 for allowing 2 people on the premises – they were fined 10/each.

Alfred Williams of the Town Hall Hotel was fined £2 for having 4 people in the hotel at 9-15 pm – they were fined 10/- each.

Charles Dolman of the St. Arnaud Hotel was fined £5 for having the bar door open at 1035 pm, however the hotel was empty.

Wanted Mrs P J Hines of ‘Oak Lodge’ Traynors Lagoon wants trustworthy domestic help; Mrs J H Brown of ‘Waroona’ wants a girl and two girls are wanted immediately at the Railway Refreshment Room.

Sale Mr V V Rinaldi who is leaving the district, held a large clearing sale at Emu, plus 80 acres of leasehold land adjoining the Emu State School.

SUDOKU SOLUTION

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

Cardiologist provides an outreach service Rural Cardiac Clinic

MGS Symphony Orchestra on track to Wycheproof in December MELBOURNE Grammar School Orchestra will again take us on a classical music journey when the students perform at Wycheproof on Saturday 9 December 2023.

HEART Failure Cardiologist, Associate Professor Monique Watts (MBBS BMedSci(Hons) FRACP) recently visited the East Wimmera Health Service (EWHS) Charlton Campus to hold a regular Rural Cardiac Clinic.

This clinic is an outreach service from A/Prof. Watts main rooms in Windsor and East Melbourne, called Victoria Heart.

A total of 35 patients were seen over two days and referred from 9 different GPs. Eleven of them were new referrals and 24 patients being reviewed after being seen in the clinic previously.

Of these 35 patients only one needed to go to Melbourne for further management with the over whelming majority of investigations being able to be undertaken locally.

The clinic is being held 5-6 times per year.

Patients are supported by Telehealth as needed in between clinic visits and GPs supported through direct contact with A/Prof Watts as needed or desired.

The key difference this time was that EWHS provided support by Registered Nurses to conduct preappointment checks with each person to ensure that as much time as possible could be spent with the Cardiologist with key information already gathered.

Above: Associate Professor Monique Watts who is running the regular Rural Cardiac Clinic.

Clinical assessment

fitted at the time of consult as needed.

Each patients had a thorough clinical assessment including: - blood pressure check - height/weight and body mass index calculation - electrocardiograph - medication review - review of their cardiac histor y and specific presentation - thorough cardiovascular examination as clinical indicated Holter monitoring was also available to be

Conditions managed - assessment of cardiovascular risk - management of coronary artery disease both pre intervention and following stunting or coronary artery bypass graft surgery - assessment and management of palpitations and arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms) - management of

heart failure including advanced heart failure.

- management of hypertension (high blood pressure) - investigation and management of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) EWHS is seeking to deliver more services where local people can access care close to home and reducing the need to travel and will regularly provide information about new or enhanced services.

Travelling by 707 Operations vintage train, the orchestra will present an eclectic program that includes Rachmaninov’s challenging Piano Concerto No. 2 and the whimsy of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite, The orchestra performed at the art deco era Wycheproof Shire Hall in 2022 and all were surprised at the exquisite acoustics.

The perfect sound

quality and the warm welcome provided by the Wycheproof community have prompted Orchestra conductor Pat Miller to put the orchestra back on the rails for another whistle-stop tour.

Concert proceeds will go to Friends of Railway Place Wycheproof for upkeep of the historic Wycheproof Railway Station.

Be uplifted by the

-Contributed Melbourne Grammar School Symphony Orchestra at 7.30am on Saturday 9th December at the Wycheproof Shire Hall, Broadway, Wycheproof.

Pre-book Tickets $ 12.50 per adult (children and school students under 18 years free) available from Wycheproof Community Resource Centre, or online at https://www.trybooking.com/CMMGB. Tickets are limited and pre-booking is advised.

A post-concert supper is included.

Above: The spotlight was on the MGS Symphony Orchestra during its 2022 concert at the art deco Wycheproof Shire Hall. Audiences will again be enthralled by the classical music repertoire during the 2023 concert in December.

60-DAY PRESCRIPTIONS NOW AVAILABLE

PBS020_A_C_186x260

Medicines just got cheaper for a range of ongoing health conditions. Now selected PBS medicines can be prescribed for 60-days to give you twice the medication for the cost of a single prescription, saving you money and time.

Ask your doctor if a 60-day prescription is right for you, or visit health.gov.au/cheapermedicines Part of making Medicare stronger.

Authorised by the Australian Government, Canberra

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 25th 2023 - Page 15

Who can enter a Horse event at our Ag Show? My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3

DOES everyone know exactly how much fun they can have at their local A g r i c u l t u r a l S h ow ?

Anyone who can lead or ride a pony can enter in the Horse events.

Jodi Flanagan entered her bay filly Quarter horse ‘Angel of a Mornin” and her buckskin gelding Quarter horse ‘Heza morn n cowsmart’ in the buckskin events and the quarter horse events and had great success taking out 1st and 2nd in many events and also two Champions and a Reserve champion.

But more important than winning, Jodi had so much fun.

Jodi wanted to give thanks to the many people and great friends who supported her.

“Tracey Arbuckle for her support.

“Wendy Shaw for helping me clean and get my horses show-ready and her help through the two days.

“Katie and Jasmin Harvey for letting me use all the gear you need to go in an English show.

“Also a massive thank you to Makeala at Dynamic Equine Veterinary Service

IT’S time to join the Portokalos-Miller families again as the third installment of the “Big Fat Greek Wedding” franchise hits The Rex movie screen - Contributed this weekend.

Above: Jodi Flanagan with her horses, Angel of a Mornin (right) and Heza morn n cowsmart. who sponsored the champion quarter horse event which my filly won.

“I’d also like to thank my other sponsors Caroline from Tatura Farm supplies and Mitavite (for their products Cool Vitality

and Hygain Regain.

“Amy for getting my horses in such beautiful condition and the best temperaments.

“Overall, I would really like to thank everyone involved with our local Ag

S h o w, t h e o r g a n i s e r s , volunteers – you make a show a great place to visit and compete at” Jodi said.

So next year everyone who can lead and ride, enter in these wonderful horse events.

94 Woods Street, Donald Email: plumbing@hardinghams.com.au

There follows plenty of heartwarming and funny episodes, with many a twist and turn.

And this time, it's Toula and Ian's daughter, Paris (Elena Kampouris), who falls in love while in Greece with her family.

Reprising his role as “Ian Miller”, (Toula’s husband), is John Corbett.

Andrea Martin makes a welcome return as fan favorite, “Aunt Voula”, with Joey Fatone as “Angelo” (Toula’s cousin) and Louis Mandylor as Toula’s brother “Nick”.

Filmed on the Greek mainland and surrounding islands, the scenery provides a smorgasbord of Mediterranean imagery.

So, come on everyone – you are all invited to join in this “big fat family reunion”.

Opa! “My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3” (PG 91 mins) screens Saturday 28th October at 8pm, Sunday 29th October at 2pm and Tue 31st October at 8pm.

TRUE BLUE FLOORS

Licensed Plumbers and Gasfitters Phone: (03) 5497 1464

More than two decades since the first movie was released and seven years since Number 2 made an appearance, Nia Vardalos (“Toula Portokalos / Miller”) again re-introduces us to the cast of the Portokalos clan – this time as they travel to a family reunion in Greece.

All the favourite actors from the first two movies make a re-appearance, with the exception of Michael Constantine who played the family patriarch, Kostas “Gus” Portokalos, who passed away at the age of 94 in 2021.

"A lot has happened since my big fat Greek wedding!” said Varalos in the lead up to the third film’s release. “My father passed away, and his last wish was for us to visit his childhood village and reconnect with our roots."

Carrying out her father’s wish, Toula and family return to Greece with his journal, delivering it to his childhood friends at the village's reunion event.

Ric Lang Owner operator

0417 110 922 Your local option for commercial & residential solar installations Phone: 5495 1449 107 NAPIER STREET, ST. ARNAUD

FLOOR SANDING AND POLISHING NEW AND OLD FLOORS RECOATING OF FLOORS truebluefloorsanding@gmail.com

ST. ARNAUD BLINDS We are NOW based in your area FOR ALL TYPES OF INDOOR AND OUTDOOR BLINDS, SECURITY DOORS AND FLYSCREENS, ALUMINUM ROLLER SHUTTERS AND PLANTATION SHUTTERS Free measure and quote at your request.

Open Wednesday to Sunday

PLEASE DO NOT HESITATE TO CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION

Ph. Trevor - 0421 194 711 Trading as:

Wimmera Blinds & Awnings

FOR ALL YOUR PRINTING NEEDS!

David Barrance Dtp. Hart., Burnley

LANDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN PAVING CONTRACTOR

For all your Trophy and Engraving needs!

Call David for Professional, Pruning, Gardening, Weed Spraying and Lawn Mowing

Ph: 0413 782 303

Phone: 0428 951 441

dave.i4gardens@gmail.com

18 Napier Street, St. Arnaud.

Page 16 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 25th 2023.

18 Napier St., St. Arnaud.

Phone: (03) 5495 1055

Sound of Freedom: A compelling move

Tennis Season commences with mixed results

IT took a small studio to release the “Sound of Freedom” (M) film when all the large film studios refused, perhaps because it tells a story that they would prefer to remain hidden. - Contributed

ENJOYING the last of the recent fine weather the St. Arnaud Lawn Tennis Club players embarked on the new seasons first ‘home and away’ round with high hopes as they headed north to face Wycheproof and Nullawil.

Facing Wycheproof for the first time following its three-year absence from the North Central Lawn Tennis Association, the Kara Kara team “got off to a flyer” in the Men’s Doubles section with comprehensive 45-15 games margin.

Whilst the strong Wycheproof pairing of Ben Brennan and Dane McL ennan proved too strong for Jake and Sam Male winning 8/5 in a hardfought match, from thereon it was “oneway traffic” as Kara K ara won all the remaining matches comfortably, ably led by three set winners on the day, Don Erwin and John and Matthew Goode, and admirably supported by Rogan “Handy” Hando in his first outing with St Arnaud Tennis Club with his two set victories.

Unfortunately, the Men’s section success could not be replicated in the Ladies Doubles section with Chris and Sheridan Goode the only set winners 8/3 against the strong Wycheproof ladies combinations who will prove to a force to be reckoned with in the competition.

The margin was 4326 games.

Experience showed through in the Mixed Doubles as Kara Kara completed a winning afternoon with a 46-19 section success and a win overall 117-77 games (8-2 points) Further north it was different stor y at Nullawil as the St. Arnaud team, struck down by illness and absence in its Ladies section, succumbed to the ever-strong Nullawil combinations.

To beat Nullawil, last year’s NCLTA Premiers, an opposition team needs to 100% ready and so it proved as the undermanned St. Arnaud were no match for the

- Contributed Premiers.

In one bright spot Stephen Rodger and Thomas Watts blitzed their opposition 8/1 but then the Bartram / Fawcett family combinations ensured St. Arnaud would not win another set to clinch the section 41-32 games.

Juniors Owen Lowe and Ben Greenaway showed their potential with strong displays in close defeats.

With senior ladies players absent the opportunity was provided to the young “up and comer” juniors in Keegan Amos, Josie Greenaway and Millie Hando to “strut their stuff”.

While not successful (the Ladies Doubles section lost 48-10 games) the girls’ efforts were appreciated by the team and we are sure to see their improvement in the future as they have further opportunities.

Stephen Rodger and Keegan Amos, together with Thomas Watts and Trudie Jackson led the team with fine victories in the Mixed Doubles but this was to no avail as the lower section Nullawil pairings proved far stronger and the section was lost to the latter 42-20 games for an overall defeat for St. Arnaud 62-131 games (0-10 points).

All in all, an enjoyable start to the tennis season albeit with players complaining of sore and tired muscles!

This Saturday, St. Arnaud meets Kara Kara in the local derby at a time to be decided (considering the St. Arnaud Cup meet).

The Junior’s season is underway so parents looking to encourage your children to enjoy sport, and learn better hand and eye coordination, in a welcoming environment now is your chance!

Above: Kara Kara's Sam and Jake Male in action at Wycheproof.

Play is on Saturdays at 9.30 a.m. at the lawn courts, Ballarat Road and some racquets are available for use.

Parents are invited to attend, too.

Weekly from Wednesday, 25th October there will be Wednesday morning social tennis at 9.30 a.m.

So, if you would like to add a little to your fitness or just to socialize why not pop down for an enjoyable morning?

Just $5.00 pp, members free and there are some racquets available.

Children welcome.

Enquiries to Will Jackson 0437 898 332.

Right: Did Kara Kara's Don Erwin swallow a fly?

St. Arnaud vs Donald Golf in midweek pennant ST. ARNAUD travelled to Donald Golf for Round 2 of Midweek - Contributed Pennant Phil McRae’s team played Geoff Rigby’s team.

Donald led 12-10 after 13th end, thanks to the good play by their skip Geoff Rigby.

They picked up another 4 shots before lunch to lead 16-10 at the break.

Resuming after lunch they managed to win the next 2 ends to lead 20-10 in what was fast becoming a one-sided game.

A well-earned 5 on the next end saw the visitors turn the game around.

St. Arnaud managed to score 1 shot on each of the next 5 ends to see them level going into the last end.

Donald Golf managed to win the end with a single shot to win 21-20 Col Marchment’s team played Brenda Dixon’s team; St. Arnaud won 7 of the first 10

ends to lead 17-6 before Donald Golf won the next 3 ends to be only 2 down on the card.

The visitors steadied to be up 2115 at lunch.

Resuming after the break St. Arnaud scored 21 on the last 21 ends to win comfortably 42-22.

This was to prove handy for the overall result.

The third rink saw Sandra McIntyre fill in for Tom Amos as skip.

Marg McRae stepped to 3rd with newcomer Jayson Barron playing second and Andrea Tyler playing lead.

They played Shane O’Shea’s team; This game was closer with the home team leading 11-10 at the lunch break.

Donald Golf won 6 of the last 10 ends to increase their lead to run out winners 23-16.

Final scores St. Arnaud 78 shots 8 points d. Donald Golf 66 shots 4 points.

When it hit the screens in the USA this year audience reaction was such that reluctant cinema chains were forced to significantly multiply the number of cinemas across the country screening the film, and the film was soon out grossing the major film releases.

To top this off cinema audiences rated the film 100% on the top movie review sites.

So, what makes this film such compelling viewing?

You can find out at one of the two screenings at the St. Arnaud Community Cinema this weekend – on Friday, 27th October at 7.30 p.m. or Sunday, 29th October at 2.00 p.m.

Sound of Freedom stars Jim Caviezel as Tim Ballard, a government agent who arrests child traffickers and other consumers of child pornography.

But when he realizes that he’s yet to save a single child, he begins devoting himself to infiltrating these rings to find and rescue the children in captivity.

Eventually, with the help of former cartel accountant Vampiro (Bill Camp), he sets up an entire sting operation in Columbia to rescue 54 children that are being put up for sale.

Sound of Freedom is a very challenging film with a commanding message.

In more than a few instances, it’s borderline soul-destroying, for reasons that do not need to be spelled out.

But does it tell such a dark story well?

Yes, it does.

In fact, Alejandro Monteverde’s direction is about as tasteful as one could imagine it possibly being, while still plunging you fully into such territory.

For one thing Sound of Freedom doesn’t explicitly show you any of the actual terrible “acts” at their worst.

That’s as far as Sound of Freedom goes, because that’s as far as it needs to go.

The film is obviously confronting but it never feels exploitative or sensationalized.

Sound of Freedom moves at a pretty brisk pace while still dwelling on the emotions and traumas in the many scenes where it needs to.

Jim Caviezel’s subdued but still blatantly pained performance lends exactly the right level of weight to the story and character, while Bill Camp as Vampiro, is a character with a very rough history and gruff exterior that need to be juggled with his noble motivations and softer side.

Not only is child trafficking obviously a very real problem in the world, but Tim Ballard is a real person who has rescued many trafficking victims, both children and adults.

As such, there’s clearly an importance to the subject matter Sound of Freedom is tackling, which adds layers of realism to this film.

There are glimpses of the larger systemic problems that allow it to go on and how focusing on the perpetrators usually leaves the kids behind, so the film isn’t completely one-dimensional.

But it’s a real look at the issue, albeit one that’s executed remarkably well.

Sound of Freedom is directed compassionately and delicately, it’s acted powerfully, and it tells a story that’s simple but very easy to get invested in because it’s touching on something that, again, is a real tragedy in the world.

Indeed, it is a riveting movie, well-acted, with a hugely important message for society and one that will prove sobering, yet enlightening, for all who see it.

Get your paper quicker and subscribe online for your electronic North Central News!

Simply go to:

www.northcentralnews.com.au 18 Napier Street, St. Arnaud. 3478. Phone: (03) 5495 1055

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 25th 2023 - Page 17

St. Arnaud 18 shot winners ST. ARNAUD Division One bowlers scored a very good win over fancied Wedderburn in last weekends second round of North Central pennant - Contributed competition.

Above: St. Arnaud bowls skipper Steve Zsigmond follows his shot right to the kitty.

Best On Parade is the Dunstan Memorial Cup JUDGING of horse and rider is the objective in the J.C. and T.C. Dunstan Memorial Best On Parade at the St. Arnaud Agricultural Show.

The cup and sash have been awarded at every St. Arnaud Agricultural Show since 1948.

Left: The cup (inset).

The windy conditions were challenging and good concentration was required all afternoon.

Two of the rinks were very close, with Wedderburn winning one by 2 shots, with St. Arnaud winning the other by 2 shots.

The deciding factor was the strong win by St. Arnaud’s Steve Zsigmond, Glendon Hancock, Greg McNally and Darren Shepherd over Laurie Witham’s four.

Ziggy’s team led 12 – 4 after 8 ends but the Wedderburn team fought back to be just 2 shots down after 11 ends.

But the St. Arnaud four took control again winning 10 of the last 12 ends, establishing an overall match winning 18 shot win.

Terr y McSwain, Ashley Dyke, Maurie Wood and Tony Marland led Alan Jackson’s four for the first end only in a tough, closely fought contest, but won the last 3 ends to grab a 2 shot victory.

A 5 shot conversion by skipper Terr y McSwain was a telling factor in the result.

Tony Marland led well in his first game with St. Arnaud.

Phil McRae, Col Marchment, Kerryn Dyke and Graham Simpson got away to a 7 – 0 shots lead over Neil Holt, but the Wedderburn team fought back to take the lead on the 17th end, leading by 6 shots with 3 ends to play.

The St. Arnaud boys gained 4 shots on the last 3 ends but went down by 2 shots.

Match details:S. Zsigmond 32 def L. Witham 14 T. McSwain 25 def A. Jackson 23 P. McRae 18 lost to N. Holt 20 St. Arnaud 75 shots defeated Wedderburn 57 shots – 10 points to 2.

Other results round 2 Division 1 Country Club 66

shots lost to Charlton 85 shots – 0 points to 12 points Donald 54 shots lost to Wycheproof 80 shots – 0 points to 12 points Boort 75 shots defeated Donald Golf 58 shots – 11 points to 1 point.

Ladder pts 1. St. Arnaud 22 2. Wycheproof 22 3. Boort 13 4. Wedderburn 12 5. Charlton 12 6. Donald 10 7. Donald Golf 3 8. Country Club 2 Division 2 Wedderburn By 14 shots.

St. Arnaud lost 2 of the 3 rinks against Wedderburn, and despite a really good win by Lloyd Goddard, Gary Shinners, Frank James and John Prendergast could not close the large gap.

Lloyd’s team trailed G. Burnside 14-17 after 14 ends but came home strongly winning 9 of the last 11 ends for an 11 shot win.

Division Two St. Arnaud v Wedderburn L. Goddard 32 def G. Burnside 21 C.Coates 15 lost to A. Roberts 31 T. Amos 24 lost to I. Hall 33 St. Arnaud 71 shots lost Wedderburn 85 shots – 2 points to 10

points.

Other results round 2 Country Club 46 shots lost to Charlton 90 shots – 2 points to 10 points Donald 53 shots lost to Wycheproof 79 shots – 2 points to 10 points Boort 60 shots lost to Donald Golf 90 shots – 2 points to 10 points.

Ladder pts 1. Wedderburn 22

2. Donald Golf 22 3. Charlton 20 4. Wycheproof 19 5. Country Club 5 6. St.Arnaud 4 7. Donald 2 8. Boort 2.

Next week round 3 Country Club versus St. Arnaud Divisions 1 and 2.

Due to the St. Arnaud Horse Racing Cup being held on Saturday October 28th, the local bowls derby game will be p l a y e d o n Fr i d a y evening commencing at 6.00pm at the St. Arnaud Bowling Club.

St. Arnaud bowler Darren Shepherd sends down a good bowl against Wedderburn.

Wedderburn bowler Bruce Hargraves in action as his opponents prepare for their next bowl.

St. Arnaud Country Club pennant bowls ST. ARNAUD Country Club facing Charlton had a very disappointing day when they failed to win a rink, the final margin was 19 shots. - Contributed Mark Esmore lost to Lyn Southwell 22-

We’re back in our newly refurbished hall.

Bill Rodger lost to Ken North 19-23 Simon Elliott lost to Kevin Willey 25-38 66 shots to 85 0 points to 12 Division 2 The only bright note for the day was the the win by Phil Elliott’s rink of Phil Elliott, Chris Webb, Jack Jorgensen, and Leigh Watkins by 8 shots Phil Elliott defeated Ely Rosewell 26-18 Hugh Craddock lost to M Preston 11-35 Graham Shaw lost to Wayne Keenan 9-37 46 shots to 90 2 points to 10

The hall looks fresh and so did our bowlers after the break.

There was a good roll up this week and as it was supper night that meant it was bowling to wherever kitty was rolled.

The scoreboards didn’t always reflect the top class bowling with some amazing shots being played.

Congratulations to Pam

24

Above: John Dunstan (left) congratulates Phoebe Cameron on Trends as Judge David Ross awards the pair the Dunstan Memorial Cup and Sash at the St. Arnaud Agricultural Show on Sunday 8th October.

Page 18 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 25th 2023.

Bealiba Hall Indoor Carpet Bowls - Contributed Brightwell and Malcolm Campbell finishing with two wins and a draw to just pip Gary McClelland, Lyle Streeter and Karen Waters on two wins.

Supper followed and the raffle was won by Malcolm Campbell.

Players were also notified of the AGM set for Thursday November 9th at 7pm.

Happy bowling

It’s the Big Day of the St. Arnaud Cup • From page 20.

The St. Arnaud Turf Club is a not-for-profit organisation that is run by a large committee of passionate thoroughbred horseracing enthusiasts.

The committee works hard to deliver the St. Arnaud Cup annually and pride themselves on delivering a large-scale event

to the St. Arnaud community and surrounding districts.

The Weir's IGA + Liquor St. Arnaud Cup is a day not to be missed.

It provides racegoers with a unique country racing experience and has a fun, feel-good atmosphere.

The Committee and staff have been work-

ing hard at the track and made several improvements to the facilities in the last twelve months including a permanent TV wall in the betting ring for racegoers to enjoy watching the races on.

For race day details head to… country.racing.com/st-arnaud or call Penny M: 0418 124 289.

Above: The 2022 Bendigo Bank Kids Brumby Race.

Sandersons qualify 3 for the SA Cup CHARLTON trainer Shane Sanderson had three starters in the heats of the 2023 SA Pacers Cup on Friday night for a first, second and third with all three qualifying for the Cup final at Globe Derby on Saturday the 28th.

In the Trotters Cup heats the Kooreh trained “Travel Bug” returned after 118 days away from the track and after doing plenty of work in the run battled on strongly to be placed second thus qualifying for Trotters final at Globe Derby on Saturday.

Brothers John and Paul Thompson had a great week with the success of “Bruised Ego” at Swan Hill on Tuesday night and their bonny mare “Twisted Bliss” winning at Melton on Friday night.

“Twisted Bliss” set a new best career time of 1.53.9 in her easy win and the win of “Bruised Ego” was especially satisfying as the 8yo hadn’t been successful since the gelding won at Horsham in November 2020.

Both pacers are trained by John Tormey and were driven by Ellen Tormey.

Charlton raced again on Wednesday with the Joe Thompson trained “Joe Got Rolled” winning

again on her home track.

Driver Ryan Sanderson took advantage of the 3yo filly’s number 3 barrier to challenge for the lead but couldn’t cross the pole horse so took up the position on the leader’s back before utilising the sprint lane at the finish to win easily in a time of 1.57.5.

Ryan made it a twotrack double for the day when he drove a winner for the Greg Norman/Cormack Bros. team at Melton that night aboard the lightly raced 3yo “Thevicepresident”.

The Gadsden stable couldn’t crack it for a winner at the Charlton meeting but tasted success at Ararat the next night when free legged pacer “Markleigh Caz” improved on her Charlton second to win a NR up to 45 class race.

That was win number 14 for the 9yo mare.

The National Invitation Drivers meeting at Launceston, TAS, was abandoned after race 4

on Saturday because of the heavy rain that fell in the area.

Fortunately, Ellen Tormey was able to win 1 of the heats at the northern Tasmania venue before the meeting was called off.

That win made it 7 for the week for her with a treble at Charlton, a double at Melton on Friday and the Swan Hill win for the Major Miracle Syndicate.

The $50,000 Redwood Classic is on at Maryborough on Sunday but the Victorian Trotters Derby final will likely be the highlight of the meeting with a clash between the impressive heat winners, “The Locomotive” and the kiwi “Lovemeto”.

Inside running

by Archie

Right: The Ainsworth family won three consecutive races last week with Jason winning the last at Swan Hill on Tuesday night and the first at Charlton on the Wednesday.

Brother Toby trained the winner of race 2 at Charlton the talented but challenging 4yo mare “Designs” pictured with winning driver Chris Alford and Ada Massa.

Above: 4yo Beau Ainsworth, Ashleigh’s son, enjoyed a classic Spring day at Charlton but just in case he went missing he was easy to identify.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 25th 2023 - Page 19

Page 20 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 25th 2023.

SPORT

HOME DELIVERY 5495 1055

It’s the Big Day of the St. Arnaud Cup BIG day on Saturday with the running of the Weir’s IGA + Liquor St. Arnaud Cup and the gates are open at 11am.

The St Arnaud Turf Club Committee is expecting a big crowd at this year’s race day.

Presales have been very positive with 153 people booked into the Anirishman Winning Post Marquee this year.

The Anirishman Winning Post Marquee is a premium race day experience package that is located trackside and directly in front of the winning post at the St. Arnaud Racecourse.

The Marquee is named after the 2022

St. Arnaud Cup Champion – Anirishman, trained by Patrick Ryan Jnr. The First Race will be at approximately 1.45 unless the organisers receive an extra race following acceptances on Thursday, which will then make the first race will be at approximately 1pm.

The Cup will be run at approximately 4pm or 4.50pm depending on the extra acceptances, with the Last Race at approximately 5.30pm.

For those that linger,

the band Finishes at 7pm to 7.30pm and the gates close at approximately 7.30pm Celebrate Cox Plate Day in St. Arnaud with 7 local races programmed and all the Cox Plate Racing action from Melbourne on the Big Screen.

The St. Arnaud Turf Club has many activities going on for the day which include Live Music from No Mistake, popular four-piece cover band that covers a range of music from pub rock, pop and all the classics; Giant Slide, Jumping Castle and Face Painting for the kids.

Show off your Wheels Sho & Motor Bikes @ King Georges Park ST ARNAUD

Sunday 29th October

Plus the Bendigo Bank Brumby Cup, a popular foot race on the grass track of the St. Arnaud Racecourse where the kids are dressed in Brumby costumes.

There is a FREE town bus service compliments of the Transport Accident Commission (TAC).

The TAC are a wonderful sponsor of the St Arnaud Turf Club.

The town bus will depart the Town Hall Carpark at 11.30am and complete round trips to the St. Arnaud Racecourse until approximately 2pm.

The return bus service will commence at 6.30pm and head back into town and complete several round trips for racegoers to get home safely.

Who could forget the fashions - Russ Studios Fashions on the Field with Roving Judges selecting the ‘best dressed’ from amongst the crowd.

No registrations are required and categories include Lady of the Day, Gent of the Day, Millinery of the Day and Junior Racegoer The St. Arnaud Turf

Above: The 2022 Best on Track winners (left to right) Adele Griffin, Alison Vanbree and Roydan Darby.

Club thanks their wonderful sponsors and race day partners Weir’s IGA + Liquor St Arnaud, Goldacres, Northern Grampians Shire Council, bet365, Ridley, Nutrien Ag Solutions, Community Bank Avoca Maryborough and St. Arnaud, Transport Accident Commission (TAC), Ecylce Solutions and Russ Studios.

FREE HOME DELIVERY Peach’s Fruit Market NOW IN Reid’s Mixed Business

Specials

• Cont. on page 19.

* Cauliflowers

$2.49 each * 2kg Onions

$2.99 per bag * Small Strawberries

$2.49 per punnet * Mandarines

$1.99 per kg WHILE STOCKS LAST

· Registra!on 10am – Finish 2pm · Car boot sales, major raffle, food, drink, prizes, trophies

105 Napier Street, St. Arnaud.

Telephone (03) 5495 2848

& MORE (Gold coin dona"on entry fee) Join us for a good time with friends & family

Contact: Alan Esmore 0418 356 532 Arnold Bond 0417 339 500

7 Days a Week

B RM za from 5.00pm Ph: 1300 416 461 Piz Above: The 2022 Winner of the St. Arnaud Cup, “Anirishman”.

Phone Orders Taken & Delivered

Friday Frenzy 50% OFF Roses

5961 Sunraysia Highway, St. Arnaud. (Next door to Elders) — Phone 03 5495 1422