8-12-2021 by North_Central_News

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St. Arnaud, Charlton, Wedderburn & Surrounding Districts

Est. 1864

18 Napier Street, St. Arnaud. 3478. - Advertising & Editorial Material - Ph.: (03) 5495 1055; Fax.: (03) 5495 1937. Email: ncn@iinet.net.au Published weekly. Registered by Australia Post, Publication No. VAC 4217.

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WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 8th 2021.

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

(Incl. GST)

Santa poses no concern for this little chap LIT TLE Reggie Bourke had nothing to worry about recently at the Wo o r o o n o o k C FA Christmas Party.

He was a little concerned when he encountered Santa for the very first time. Keeping a close eye on

him were his six big brothers and mum, Julie. Dad, Brendan was able to join the family a little later for a BBQ tea.

Below: (left to right) Back: Clancy, Oscar, Fergus, Arthur, Julie. Seated: Isaac, Henry holding Reggie, Santa.

Above: Uncle Ron encourages the smoke, using his arms and hands, towards one resident of Birchip Aged Care.

Uncle Ron conducts Smoking Ceremony at Birchip Hospital WELCOME to Country and a Smoking Ceremony by Uncle Ron Marks were a highlight at the opening of the redevelopment of the Birchip Hospital campus of East Wimmera Health Service recently. To the First Nations people a ‘smoking’ is an important part of any ceremony and assists in cleansing the area and the people of bad spirits as well as promoting the protection and well-being of visitors. As there are several ways that the smoking ceremony can be organised, Uncle Ron Marks set up a smoking site and those that wished walked through the smoke encouraging it into the body by movement of the arms. Many of the residents of the Birchip Aged Care were taken in their wheelchairs through the smoke. Uncle Ron is a Wergaia and Dja Dja Wurrung man and edu-

Red Star competition starts today RUNNING again this year is the North Central News RED STAR Shopping Promotion.

Above: Uncle Ron Marks performed the Welcome to Country and the Smoking Ceremony at the Birchip Hospital redevelopment recently. cation is his life-calling. During his Welcome to Countr y to the interested participants on Tuesday 30th November, Uncle Ron

was an engaging speaker passionately involved in bringing together the indigenous and nonindigenous people of this country.

As with past years you only have FOUR DAYS in which to fill in a coupon at participating stores. The winner will be announced at the Market Square event after the St. Arnaud procession on 17th December. It will also be published in the last edition of the North Central News on 22nd December. The winning voucher will take home a 2-night stay for 2 adults and 2 children in a 2 bedroom cabin at the NRMA Halls Gap Holiday Park. Participating business are RAMJAC, Lyall Eales, St. Arnaud Clothing Footwear and Apparel, Gold ‘n Silver Mine, JPX Take away, Country Delights, St. Arnaud Post Office, Junction Roadhouse, St. Arnaud Home Timber and Hardware, Hen Picked Crafts, Trenz on Napier, Betta Home Living,

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Just A Whim, Greentime Nursery, St. Arnaud Allsorts, Garton Motors, Pure Bliss, , Cooks Choice, Parkview Bakery, Reid’s Mixed Business, Nutrien Ag Solutions, Six2Six, Scrappy Cocos, St. Arnaud Books, St. Arnaud Pharmacy, Elders St. Arnaud, Jodie’s In Transit Hair Design, Tom’s Small Engines, Casey’s Truck and Tractor, News Express, Sprayer Centre, O’Connors and Mulligans Music.

See pages 6, 7, 8, & 9 for Christmas ideas

Should business be paying for staff to act as Marshalls? VICTORIAN retail workers are reporting incidents of abuse by customers that have increased markedly over recent days with the ruling that entry to non-essential shops is only for the vaccinated. Up until recently we only heard of abuse at health clinics, some of which had been forced to shut but there has been a significant rise in abuse, threats and aggressive behavior following another Victorian decision to extend the requirement for vaccination of certain essential workers to all authorized workers in the state. Retailers Dymocks, a Melbourne bookstore, has hired professional security after a staff member working as a COVID-19 marshal was allegedly pushed down an escalator. The employee was briefly knocked unconscious in the incident after allegedly being pushed by a customer who refused to check in using a QR code and show his vaccine certificate. The government haven't really given retailers in particular any support in addressing with them how they are supposed to ensure that they do meet the COVID-19 requirements. This coupled with the inconsistency across essential and non-essential businesses adding to the confusion for customers, it all adds up to a volatile mix. The Australian Retailers Association CEO Mr Zahra wrote an open letter to the Premier Daniel Andrews outlining the abuse, both verbal and in growing numbers the physical, where staff members were assaulted because they are following the COVID-19 protocols. Mr Zahra reports that staff have been beaten up, a cup of boiling coffee thrown over a frontline workers and a shopping trolley at

18 Napier St., St. Arnaud, Victoria 3478. Ph.: (03) 5495 1055; Fax.: (03) 5495 1937 Email: ncn@iinet.net.au St. Arnaud, Charlton & surrounding districts

N.C.N. INFORMATION The North Central News is 100% locally owned, independent newspaper, established in 1864. With an ABC audited circulation of 1,700 copies, and an estimated readership of over 4,250 throughout the Northern Grampians and Buloke Shires. SUBSCRIPTIONS Annual subscription for 12 months is only $144.00 (inc. GST), including postage and packaging. ADVERTISING & COPY DETAILS Artwork, and all advertisements or alterations are to be submitted before 5.00pm Friday prior to publication. Announcements of births, deaths, marriages and engagements must be properly authenticated. N.C.N. prefers advertisement and editorial copy to be typed or neatly hand-written to avoid being published incorrectly. We accept no responsibility for error or misspellings in illegible advertisement and editorial copy.

DISCLAIMER The views and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those held by the publisher or editor. The publisher and staff accept no liability for injury or losses which may occur as a result of information presented in this publication. © Copyright 2021 North Central News is published weekly by Peter Marland, 3279 Charlton/St. Arnaud Road, Slaty Creek for NCNews Pty. Ltd., 18 Napier Street, St. Arnaud. A.C.N. 146 461 903. Printed by Western District Newspaper P/L, Camperdown Vic. Registered by Australia Post Publication No. VAC 4217 - Recommended and maximum selling price only.

Editorial another. These reports he declares were made from a broad range of retailers including large department stores, a hardware to small businesses including a charity shop. These reports are in the minority and not everyone against vaccination, or against the mandatory wearing of masks and other restrictions will resort to violence or abuse, however it does demonstrate that everyone is under a huge amount of stress, and that these are unprecedented times for government control of our lives. But it is a pandemic. It is understandable that many people feel frustrated and even angry about being forced to be vaccinated perhaps not so understandable is that they are taking it out on staff, but mandatory vaccination and government control is the biggest single issue the population is facing currently. This is some of the most controversial legislation we have ever been subjected to, however legislation that has an enormous effect on the population is not without precedent. In late 1964 the Menzies Government introduced balloted compulsory military service for 20-year-old males, to provide enough additional personnel to support the escalating commitment to the Vietnam War. The law was current for nine years and thousands’ of young men were required to give up two years’ of their lives to ‘serve their country’. The opposition to conscription was taken up by many, but the anger was directed at the government, at the makers of the laws, although some friction did exist between the two sides of the debate in the community. Perhaps the generation that are opposing the mandatory vaccination (and what they consider is the government’s denial of their human rights) need to think about how a 20 year old man felt in the 1960s. However, it is the enforcing of the law that is the issue of this editorial. Granted, it is mandated vaccinations and severe lockdowns that have resulted in the high rate of vaccinations that we enjoy. COVID-19 restrictions are enforced through spot checks by Victoria Police and use of emergency powers by Authorised Officers to ensure compliance with the public health directions. But this is not enough if the reports are to be believed. Making something mandatory is a very emotive topic, even one where those that do not have a firm opinion either way can be caught in the middle. It is a topic that should not be left to the population generally or businesses specifically to sort out and enforce. If the government believes that it is so imperative to declare mandated industries for vaccinations then they should be enforcing the order. Spot checks by police won’t do it, security guards should be available at government expense for any business that requests them. Small businesses are unable and should not be expected to take this load.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance you must keep moving. Albert Einstein

WEEKLY RAINFALL ST. ARNAUD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .0.4 RAINFALL FOR DECEMBER . . . . . . .0.4 YEARLY RAINFALL TO DATE . . . . .591.6 CHARLTON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .0.0 RAINFALL FOR DECEMBER . . . . . . .0.0 YEARLY RAINFALL TO DATE . . . . .418.8 Answer to Get it puzzle... Microwave

Page 2 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 8th 2021.

To the Editor

Op Shop Christmas Dear Editor, For those of you who don't understand the term 'OP Shop Christmas', I am not breaking into an Op Shop on the 25th and cooking lunch. Every gift I give this year will be upcycled (is that the right word) from an Op Shop. This is charitable, supports local economies, reduces my carbon-footprint, lowers money that supports the Chinese regime. All of the gifts I have purchased are quirky, personalised, in some cases one of a kind and mostly suit their recipients' hobbies. I was also able to find wrapping paper and gift bags. I have bought for the person who has everything, the weird uncle with the gimpy eye, the pragmatist, the step-son who has just moved out of

home and my son who intends to be attending university in 2022. If you MUST buy something new, I suggest 'supporting a local artist' by buying from community run art galleries. I can recommend Stawell, St. Arnaud and Beaufort's galleries, which are staffed by volunteers, with the proceeds

being split between the organisation and the artist, staying local. There are many 'Buy Australian' groups on social media, where Au s t r a l i a n a r t i s t s , crafters and manufacturers are available to ask questions about the material they use, sizes, colours and other custom requirements. Bernard Quince St. Arnaud

North Central News

CROSSWORD No. 10023 1

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THIS Friday night, 10th December, will see the raising of the curtain on live performance once again in St. Arnaud with ‘Mental As Everything’ playing at McDonald Hall. “Locals love to see and be a part of live music so it is very exciting to have live music again” said St. Arnaud Arts Council President Marg Batters. It will be great to see some touring performance back live on stage and these two quality Australian musicians, Damon Smith and Adam Coad meld their original music about mental illness with some slap stick, comedy and storytelling to give a rocking good show. This intimate cabaret show is free for everyone and will appeal to young and old starting at 7pm and will be teamed with a BBQ by the Lions Club, community catch up and some other entertainment by funny man Tim O’Donnell from 5pm.

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Live shows return to St. Arnaud

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ACROSS 2 Withdrew from federation 7 Hard outer covering 9 Musical sound 11 Claimants to thrones 14 Publication 16 Love god 17 Forced 18 Dry, of champagne 20 Zodiac sign 21 Useful thing 22 Perf rform rf 23 Plain clothes fo f r soldier 26 Band’s engagement 28 Month 30 Slackened 32 Bill of fare 33 Broaden 34 Befitting paradise 36 Seeds covering 37 Answer 38 Condescended

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DOWN Fish Irregular stripe Highest mountain Extremities Female deer Acceptance Goading device Faithful Highly retentive Indicates agreement T mpestuous Te Organised Steep rugged rock Fertile soil Making up fo f r Ran away Recompense Standards of perfection Partly open Agreeable Masculine Cushion Dispose of

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Mallee Councils trial Internet of Things Technology to become Smart Cities FOUR Mallee councils have joined forces to trial Internet of Things (IoT) technology to inform decision-making and improve operational efficiencies. Mildura, Buloke, Gannawarra and Swan Hill councils are participating in the 12-month Smart Cities project, which runs until June 2022. The trial will utilise sensors that capture data about how different assets and sites are used. This valuable information will help participating councils better plan for the provision of services, over time to cater for growth or decline in usage. Mildura Rural City Council is leading the project, which is enabled through State Government funding, Mildura Regional Development and includes research partnerships with La Trobe University and Sunraysia Institute of TAFE 46 trial devices will be installed across the four council areas. Some of the devices include: •People counters to determine how many people and when public facilities are being used such as playgrounds and public toilets • Water depth sensors to determine usage in pumping stations • Public litter bin sensors to alert when bins require emptying • Soil moisture monitoring to inform the watering of public ovals Mildura Mayor Liam Wood said building an Internet of Things network and being able to trial and evaluate various sensors and devices will pave the way for the Mallee to become collectively a Smart City. “Being a Smart City means automatically collecting data and using information to increase operational efficiency, share information with the public and improve the quality of council services. It is incredibly exciting that the Mallee is joining the Smart Cities revolution,” Cr Wood said. Buloke Shire Council will be installing two types of sensors across five sites in Donald. The four public toilet locations within Donald will use nine infrared and heat sensors. These sensors will count the number of people who are using

the facilities through sensing the heat entering and exiting the building. Buloke Mayor Daryl Warren is looking forward to the outputs of the project. “This will help Buloke to measure how frequently these public toilets are used, and will help us to ensure that the toilets are kept clean, through periods of high demand. We have also setup a smart counting sensor that will soon be used to give us a better understanding of the usage of airport located within the township of Donald”, Cr Warren said. Sensors will be

installed in different sites across the Mallee in the coming months. Signage, where required, will be installed notifying the public that usage statistics are being logged. Everyone can be reassured that no personally identifiable data will be captured. This project is made possible through the State Government Department of Jobs Precincts and Regions’ Regional Digital Plan and funding through the Local Government IOT Starter Kit Project. For more details and information visit https://www.buloke.vic. gov.au/smart-cities-project or call 1300 520 520.

Local A&P Societies receive funds to assist with next year’s shows AGRICULTURAL and pastoral shows across the state are being aided to bounce back from the pandemic and welcome visitors through the gates again by grants for next year’s shows. Minister for Agriculture Mary-Anne Thomas was at the Ballarat Showgrounds recently to announce more than 40 agricultural and pastoral societies have received grants totalling almost $300,000, to back a diverse calendar of local events in the new year. As part of this funding, the Donald & District Pastoral & Agricultural Society received $4,429 to install safety barriers and sanitiser stationers. The Wimmera Machinery Field Days Inc also received funds, $9,000 to develop an interactive website. The Goroke Agricultural & Pastoral Society received $4,374 to purchase 28 new poultry cages. Other successful recipients span from East Gippsland to Red Hill and across to Hamilton, with individual grants of up to $10,000 helping societies upgrade or establish new facilities, increase local involvement in show activities and create more opportunities to promote agriculture and engage with the community. The projects will enhance facilities for agricultural shows and other community events, providing support for societies that had to cancel or postpone shows due to the pandemic. It builds on almost $300,000 of support through the 2020-21 program which supported 46 projects. Examples of infrastructure funded through the 2021-22 round include mobile sheep yards, new poultry cages, portable grandstands, marquees, sanitiser stations, display boards and cabinets. The program also supported projects that promote compliance with COVIDSafe settings to encourage greater participation. The projects assist the delivery of exciting events that provide direct benefit to agricultural communities, building confidence in the sector and supporting regional economies and jobs. The program aligns with the government's Agriculture Strategy by supporting the growth of the state’s agricultural and pastoral societies to adapt and build resilience.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 8th 2021 - Page 3

St. Arnaud 100 Years Ago - 1th – 8th December 1921 St. Arnaud Hospital Report

leaving on 22nd January. She is given a bonus of £10-10-0, as she has been an able and worthy member of the staff. The position of matron has been

Matron Jean McColl who has been here for 18 months has resigned and intends

advertised – salary of £130 per annum with board and quarters. Owing to the scarcity of domestic staff the cook’s wages have been increased to 40/per week and housemaid will now receive 25/- per week. Tenders were called for the supply of goods for 1922 and were awarded to James Crone [meat 8d per lb all round and heads 2d each ], J Young [milk 4d per quart], W Marrison [drugs 15% of published price list] and W Kell [interments 30/- each]. Father Doyle objected to the meat supply being for one year so after much ‘discussion’ it was changed to only 3 months. During November

46 patients were admitted, 63 discharged, 23 remain and there were 4 deaths, Mrs Hamilton age 75, Mrs McKay age 50, Mrs Graham age 66 and William Carne age 47.

Deaths John Miller the 24year-old son of Mr and Mrs Miller formerly of Avon Plains died at Mildura. John suffered from paralysis for a long time, the result of being knocked down by a tram. He was brought to St. Arnaud by train and buried in the local cemetery. Catherine Mary, the infant daughter of John and Daisy Hancock died at St. Arnaud.

Rifle Club. A handicap sweepstake was held with 10 shots at 500 yards and won by A J Smart with 49, followed by C Crone 48, A J Preece 47, J Crone jnr 46 and J Crone snr 45.

Farewell Les Kaye, ledgerkeeper at the ES&A Bank has been transferred to head office in Melbourne. Les, who is a prominent member of the St. Arnaud Cricket Club, was given a farewell evening at which he was presented with a pipe and tobacco pouch.

Croquet Club The St. Arnaud Croquet Club Gymkhana was held

on the King George Park lawn, which is in first- class thanks to Mr T Hansom. Golf croquet won by Mrs Mowbray [prize a jewel case], square croquet won by Mrs Punshon [box chocolates], six hoops won by Mrs F Bray [fancy handkerchief] and hit the peg won Mrs N J A Reed [fancy handkerchief].

Court John Mossop was fined £2 –10-0 for assaulting Antonio Gianoli. Carriers’ licence granted to Albert C Dunn. Mrs Chisholm and Mrs McPherson were fined 2/- each for not sending their children to school.

- By Heather Pritchard

Oat Crops The first load of oats [50 bags] this season was delivered to the St. Arnaud weighbridge by C Appleby of Slaty Creek and on the same day Batters Bros of Gowar delivered 53 bags.

Sales Navarre off shears sale, – 700 sheep did not turn up so there were only 1,300 yarded and many did not met vendors high prices. A large assortment of Christmas cards is available at the Mercury Office.

Weather Heavy rain between 4 and 5 o’clock Saturday afternoon resulted in 51 points.

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

St. Arnaud 50 Years Ago - December 1971 Engagements Isobel Robertson and Scott North. Faye McNicol and John Martin. Cheryl Cummings and Gerald McIntyre. Pa m e l a P h i l l i p s and Robert Turnbull. Carelyn Woodhouse and Gary Douglas.

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

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Weddings Jan Chiswell and Kerry Hutton. Beverlee Griffith and Neil Fountain. Patricia O’Donnell and Wenceslaus van Lint.

Births Dennis and Gwen Brown nee McLean, a son Kristen Anthony. Peter and Pamela

Small a daughter. Bill and Maureen Landt nee Burke, a son Scott William Colin and Judy Smith nee Kirk, a daughter Jodie Michelle. Greg and Gail Anderson nee Peach, a daughter, Karen Jane. Ian and Shona Fithall nee Brain, a son Nicholas.

100th Birthday Mrs Isobel Johnson celebrated her centenary at her home in Ringwood. She was a former licence of the Royal Hotel at St. Arnaud and prior to taking over the hotel raised seven daugh-

ters in a house on Inglewood Road presently owned by Athel Wearne.

Deaths Mrs Adelaide Hines age 84 years. Mrs Nellie McDonald age 69 years. R o n a l d Fr a n c i s Jenkins. Peter Heffernan died in a car accident near Bendigo. His passengers Cecil Roger and Barry Rafferty were injured.

High School Principal- John Waldron, Head prefects – Esma Stanford and Gary McSwain. Dux of School for

1970 - Helen Edwards. Awards for 1971 – Senior Citizenship – Robert Postlethwaite and Michelle Perry. Junior Citizenship - Gregory Yorath and Pauline Bryce. C o o ke r y, S e n i o r –Shirley Goldsbury and Junior Rhonda Davies. Needlework, Senior – Janice Russell and J u n i o r – We n d y Tinkler. Woodwork, Senior – Dennis Richards and Junior - Shane Birthisel. Sportsmanship – Carmel McErlain and

Leigh Watts. Athletics – Karen McKinley and David Griffith. Tennis – Senior Carmel McErlain and Gregory Rodwell and Junior – Rosemary McRae and John Lovel

Pony Club End of year awards presented to – Heather May [senior] Beth Pyers [intermediate] and Annette Kelleher [junior]. Beth Pyers represented the St. Arnaud club at the recent Donald Club rideathon to Batyo Catyo.

Country Music is back for December COUNTRY music fans will once again enjoy their regular monthly ‘local Country concert’ after a lengthy hiatus due to the COVID pandemic. A great line-up of guest artists, Robyn Gleeson, Joe Musico and Trevor Keilar, along with local band Roadhouse will entertain what is expected to be a large crowd for 4 hours of country hits. The show starts at 6pm at the St. Arnaud Sporting Club, where great meals and drinks are available and will conclude at 10pm.

This is a great opportunity for newcomers to the town to meet locals and travellers alike for 4 hours of fun for only $10 entry (school age children free). Please be aware that COVIDSafe rules and protocol will be strictly adhered to. For bookings or any queries ring 0427 831 613.

Make sure you check your printing needs now! Get your orders in before our Christmas break! Our office is closed from December 23rd at 5.00pm and will re-open January 20th at 8.30am.

20 Melbourne Road, St. Arnaud Phone office 03 5495 2734 See Solution page 18

Page 4 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 8th 2021.

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Buloke Shire projects taking shape AS we roll into the end of the 2021, Buloke Shire’s projects are ramping up. Project Control Groups (PCGs) for Buloke’s Streetscape projects have met throughout the month of November to discuss the progress of each. Mayor Cr Daryl Warren is excited to see the substantial plans for our communities progressing. Shade umbrellas are now up in Cumming Avenue Birchip, with additional street furniture on its way, to be installed in the coming weeks. Improvements to Birchip’s vehicle turning areas at Rundle Street and Lockwood Street have also been completed, reducing the bottlenecking traffic hazard around the supermarket and bakery. In Wycheproof, the completed footpath has greatly enhanced the safety for pedestrians and improved the appearance of the town. Wycheproof’s footpath renewal has been a complex activity with abandoned services under the old footpath, requiring readjustment of the existing red bricks in the drain. Cr Warren said the revitalisation of the town streetscapes is now starting to take shape. “The concept drawings for Donald are almost complete and some minor modifications put forward by the Charlton community have been included into their [Charlton’s] plans. “We expect that Sea Lake’s works will commence in early 2022, after we have worked through the contributions and suggestions from the community for their entrance signs, which is currently being surveyed”, he said. Cr Warren said that whilst the impacts of COVID-19 on advancing works programs had been substantial, they continue to progress. “It is exciting to see so much activity now going on in our communities, and we are looking forward to moving ahead with the Buloke Streetscape Renewal Projects and realising the vision the communities have for these five towns, which were included in the initial funding round.” For more information on each of the Buloke Streetscape Projects visit the website.

Global survey finds Aussies got drunk the most during 2020 CHANGING drug and alcohol habits during the pandemic have been revealed in new research, the Global Drug Survey 2021. The survey draws on responses from over 32,000 people from 22 countries, with the results declaring that Australians ‘got on the beers’. On average, Australians reported getting drunk 27 times in 2020, compared with the global average of 15 times. Globally, respondents reported regretting getting drunk on 21% of occasions in 2020 – a 9% drop compared to 2019. Australians reported regretting getting drunk on 24% of occasions, with women more likely to regret getting drunk than men. The Australian arm of the global research was led by RMIT University’s Dr Monica Barratt. Barratt said while some parts of Australia experienced extended lockdowns in 2020, most of the country was relatively unaffected by the pandemic compared with European and American nations. “This may have something to do with us being the highest ranked country for frequency of getting drunk,” she said. “Although we can also see drinking cultures play a role, with Nordic, British and North American nations also reporting relative high frequencies of drunken episodes” Dr Barratt said.

Above: Plans for Charlton’s Streetscape have been updated after community input.

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Page 6 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 8th 2021.

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kg • Supervite Happy Dog 20

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NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 8th 2021 - Page 7

St. Arnaud Red Star Sale Days llsorts A d u a n r A St.

F F O % 5 1 orewide t S

elium owers and H Excludes Fl

ials for Spot Spec as Christmt, St. Arnaud

pier Stree 89 - 93 Na e: 5495 1161 Phon

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Page 8 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 8th 2021.

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NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 8th 2021 - Page 9

In The Paddock Walsh declares Government forced to act on farm trespass ON-the-spot fines to protect Victorian farmers against illegal activists invading their family farm will finally be introduced to State Parliament this week nearly two years since they were recommended. According to the Nationals Member for Murray Plains Peter Walsh, the State Government and its Agriculture Minister Mary-Anne Thomas have been dragged kicking and screaming to introduce legislation for fines of $1272 for activists caught illegally entering Victorian farms. Mr Walsh said farm-

ers will be carefully combing through the wording to make sure the Government hasn’t left loopholes that will allow activists to escape penalty. “While other states moved quickly to deter activists with hefty onthe-spot fines, the Minister has been missing-in-action for nearly two years leaving Victorian farmers

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The offering of this lot presents an excellent opportunity to purchase land in a tightly held district. The property is well suited to Cereals, Legumes, Wool Production and Fattening. Presently under Legume stubble. Auction - January 21st 2022 at 2pm at the Wallaloo Golf Club. Terms - 10% deposit Settlement - March 5th 2022. Elders Real Estate 3 Patrick Street, Stawell 5358 3939 Jim Barham 0418 504 166 Stawell.eldersrealestate.com.au

exposed,” Mr Walsh said. “It’s perhaps no surprise given Labor’s cosy relationship with Animal Justice Party MP Andy Meddick, who’s publicly endorsed the actions of extreme activists. “But by finally introducing these laws on the very last day of Parliament for 2021, Labor’s made sure farmers will be forced to wait at least another six months before they actually get the protections. “Labor’s slow action sends the wrong message to extreme animal activists who will doggedly go to any lengths to destroy the livelihood of hard-working Victorian farm families.” The Liberal Nationals have held the Government to account since the final report was delivered by the Inquiry into the Impact of Animal Rights Activism on Victorian Agriculture in February 2020. L ast month, Mr Walsh again reminded the Minister of her promise in January 2021 that the laws would be delivered by the end of the year. But as late as yesterday, Mr. Walsh says that the Minister was still refusing to give a timeline on when the legislation would be ready. “The Andrews Labor Government’s playing politics on an issue that’s taken a significant toll on farmers, risked the safety and wellbeing of livestock, and threatened biosecurity,” Mr Walsh said. “For years, the Liberal Nationals have supported farmers’ call to fix farm trespass laws. “Although we still need to see the detail of the Bill, this progress today is a small win for the relentless advocacy of our agriculture sector and a step forward in sending a strong message to law-breaking activists that we don’t tolerate people illegally entering our farms.”

Page 10 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 8th 2021.

Above: Pictured are participants at the recent workshops on how to grow and market quandongs.

Native food workshop on marketing quandongs AGRICULTURE Victoria, in partnership with the Federation of Victorian Traditional Owner Corporations (FVTOC), is supporting Aboriginal-owned organisations to develop native food and botanical businesses, such as commercial wattle seed orchards and nursery operations. Agriculture Victoria’s Aboriginal Landholder Information Service (ALIS) recently supported a native food workshop and field tour with the First People of the Millewa-Mallee Aboriginal Corporation (FPMMAC) focused on all aspects of propagating, managing, harvesting and marketing of quandongs, a small native tree species with delicious red fruit which is notoriously tricky to grow. Workshop presenter, M a t t h e w Ko o p , a native food grower and consultant with more than 20 years’ experience, presented on how to establish, harv e s t a n d m a r ke t quandongs in a commercial context. He also provided insights into the growing and harvesting of muntries, desert limes and wattle seed. A field tour of wild quandongs outside Mildura and a tour of the FPMMAC native nursery also provided opportunity to share practical information about propagating and wild harvesting. ALIS Project Leader Valerie Little said the growing interest in the unique flavours and health benefits of native foods is providing great opportunities for traditional owners. “It’s allowing them to draw on their knowledge, and that of other growers, to build their businesses around both wild harvesting and selective cultivation of bush foods,” Ms Little said. The information shared during the workshop and field tour will assist the

FPMMAC with the implementation of their Djakitjuk Djanga project and provide support and networks as they move into commercial native food production. The ALIS program provides support through training, industr y contacts, advice, information,

connection to networks and into other government organisations. It is currently working with about twenty groups, organisations and individuals involved in production. Agriculture Victoria is also supporting the corporation’s native plant foods nursery and seedbank initia-

Week ending Wednesday 1st December 2021.

tive with funding from the Djakitjuk Djanga native food industry development program. The Djakitjuk Djanga and ALIS projects align with the Victorian Government’s Agriculture Strategy commitment to maximise the growth potential of key emerging industries

— By Glendon Hancock

THE Australian wool market has recorded another small overall increase this week, pushed mainly by increases in selected merino fleece wool types. The national offering rose by 1,852 bales, there was 39,577 bales available to the trade. Good style wools 17.5 micron and finer recorded solid increases, the indiv i d u a l M i c ro n P r i c e Guides (MPGs) in Sydney and Melbourne added between 5 and 35 cents for the series. Wools 20.0 micron and broader also attracted strong buyer demand, pushing prices higher as a result. Across the country the MPGs for 20.0 to 22.0 rose between 6 and 20 cents. These rises, combined with minimal movements in the other sectors, helped to push the AWEX Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) up by 5 cents for the series, closing at 1,346 cents.

The EMI has now risenfor three consecutive selling series, this is the first time in the 2021/22 selling season that the EMI has managed this feat, the last time the EMI recorded a larger upward run was at the end of the previous season, where the EMI rose for six consecutive weeks (Weeks 47-52). Due to currency movements (the AUD dropped 0.46 cents compared to the USD from last week) when viewed in USD terms the EMI recorded a small 3 cent loss. The total dollar amount sold through the auction system passed the one-billion-dollar mark in this series. The higher prices being achieved this season compared to last, means this feat was achieved much

National Offering Centre North South West Total

Week 22 22 22

Days Offering 29 Nov 1st Dec, 9,451 29 Nov 1st Dec, 22,285 29 Nov 1st Dec, 7,841 39,577

Future Offerings Week

7, 8 Dec.

Source - AWEX

41,362

earlier than last season. In the 2020/21 season the billion-dollar mark was not reached until Week 32 (February). The carding market also had a very steady series, minimal price movements in locks, stains and crutchings brought about an average rise in the three Merino Carding indicators (MC) of 1 cent. Next week's offering remains similar, 41,362 bales are currently expected to be offered.

Melbourne Ind.

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

1293

2557n 2403 2222 2017 1827 1659 1492 1379 1318n 1315n

728n 400 335 240n 904n

+20 +35 +8 +17 +4 +2 -9 +13 +8 +17

-8 -5 +1

In The Paddock World-first research facility launches at Horsham SmartFarm THE Victorian Government is investing in world-class innovation and technology at the Horsham SmartFarm, backing our grain growers to become more productive and adaptable to climate change. Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Victoria Danielle Green recently launched the world-first Free Air Temperature Extreme (FATE) facility, established by Agriculture Victoria to advance research into growing new grain crop varieties that are suited to Australia’s increasingly extreme weather. It is vital to support Victoria’s grain growers to better manage the impacts of extreme weather on the quality of their crops as Australia becomes more prone to frequent heat waves and crops remain at ongoing risk of frost damage. The FATE facility uses unique technology that simulates extreme weather events, including heat waves and frost, to measure how cereal, oil and pulse crops perform under these conditions in openfield environments. Featuring open-air radiant heaters that are affixed to mobile trolleys, the FATE facility applies heat waves to crops at specific temperatures and times, to capture real-world data on how

grain crops respond to extreme weather. This data will support research into developing grain growing strategies that are effective under a changing climate and help farmers understand how environmental factors affect the response of new crop varieties, their resistance to pests and disease, and crop production techniques. With access to real-world data, the FATE facility will also enable researchers to use computer simulation models to forecast grain growing strategies for regions that don’t have access to this onground technology. The FATE facility is backed by a $700,000 investment by the government, including a contribution from the $5 million Smarter Safer Farms initiative, which is building skills in science and digital agriculture. The Horsham SmartFarm is delivering on the Victorian Government’s 10-year Agriculture Strategy to modernise and protect the state’s farming industries.

For more information on our SmartFarms visit agriculture.vic. gov.au.

NEXT LEVEL

Above: (left to right) Agriculture Victoria Senior Research Scientist Glenn Fitzgerald and Research Scientist Alex Clancy at the new FATE facility.

M155

M1170

M1240

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 8th 2021 - Page 11

RFT C2 2021/22 – Provision of Street Cleaning Services Northern Grampians Shire Council invites tenders from suitably experienced contractors for the cleaning of CBD footpaths, bus shelters, pedestrian walkways, garden beds, ‘butt-out’ bins, public litter bins and bin surrounds within the shire. Council may consider the option of splitting the contract into Street Cleaning Services and Bin Cleaning Services. Tenderers may choose to tender for either one or both of these services. Tenders close 2pm, Thursday 6 January 2022. To download a copy of the tender documents please go to the website www.ngshire.vic.gov.au/Tenders and follow the link, or for further information contact Amanda Smith on 03 5358 8700. LIANA THOMPSON CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

WHATS ON

Uncle Bob’s

Market Fair Saturday, December 11th, 2021. 9am - 2pm

FOR SALE

WANTED

ST. ARNAUD LIONS CLUB

ORDER YOUR LOVE ONE’S

CHRISTMAS FLOWERS

NOW

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(DON’T MISS OUT)

TO ADVERTISE PH: 5495 1055

St. Arnaud Allsorts

available at

Come along and have some fun! ANTIQUE BOTTLES CHRISTMAS PROCESSION $100s paid by private collector doing a book on cordial factories & breweries in country Victoria. Phone Robert: Mob: 0488 300 900

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

AT YOUR SERVICE

Suit Single Person References Req. Ph: 0427 952 016 Available Now!

WANTED

at 7.00pm Go on - enter a ‘float’, (ute, trailer, anything!) Assemble by 6.00pm in Mill Street for judging.

Theme:- Let’s Party. After Procession (Market Square) * Please bring your our seats * Food & Drinks available. * Music - etc Raffle draws & winners presentations.

FOR RENT

1 BEDROOM FLAT

Friday, 17th December 2021

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

0400 451 432 or 5495 1108

Major sponsor

Weir’s / NCN - colouring competition prizes

CHRISTMAS HOUSE LIGHTS Register at

ST. ARNAUD

Home Timber & Hardware - (sponsor) VOUCHER PRIZES TO BE WON

Closing date 10-12-2021 JUDGING 11th & 12th DECEMBER 2021

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

Map showing house entries in the North Central News on 15th December

Solicitor 116 Napier St., St. Arnaud

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

Ph: 5495 2595 Karen@klp.net.au

All people participation in floats for the Procession and attending the After Procession entertainment need to prove that they are double vaccinated (No proof needed in main street) COVID safe rules and protocol will be adhered to Enquiries to Lions Club,

Arnold Bond - 0417 339 590 or Colleen Bond - 0428 952 266

EMPLOYMENT St. Arnaud Secondary College St. Arnaud

Job Opportunities • District Nurse – Registered Nurse • Enrolled Nurse • Food & Domestic Service Assistant • Quality & Risk Manager • Registered Nurse Further information is available at ewhs.org.au/employment.html

Page 12 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 8th 2021.

is looking for two enthusiastic teachers to join our teaching team

Position No. 1258010 – Health P.E. Position No. 1257651 – Generalist on www.education.vic.gov.au/schooljobs Applications close 17 December 2021. For further information contact Tony Hand, Principal PO Box 40, St. Arnaud 3478 Ph: 03 54951811 Mob: 0408 812 019 Email: Tony.Hand@education.vic.gov.au

AT YOUR SERVICE

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

PH: 0409 337 276 St. Arnaud Serenity Storage

CHURCH NOTICES

DEATH SCHULZ - Keith Harold 2.11.1940 - 3.12.2021 Passed away peacefully surrounded by his family. Much loved and loving husband of Jan, devoted father of Tracie, Simone and Nerida, respected father-in-law of Darren, Greg and Glen. Loved Grandpa of 11 Grandchildren and Old Grandpa of 7 Great Grandchildren. May he Rest In Peace

SCHULZ - Keith Harold 2.11.1940 - 3.12.2021 Loving brother-in-law of Greg, Anne. Uncle to Matthew, Andrea, Nathan, Sarah, Heath and Chelsea and their families. You suffered so long and told so few, it doesn’t seem fair, what you went through. Rest Peacefully.

ANGLICAN PARISH OF ST. ARNAUD Friday 10th December 9.00am St Arnaud Morning Prayer Sunday 12th December 9.30am St Arnaud Eucharist The Rev’d Canon Jan Harper Phone: 0439 757 278.

FUNERAL SCHULZ - Keith Harold The funeral of Mr Keith Harold Schulz will leave the Anglican Church Warracknabeal on Monday December 13th, 2021 after a Service commencing at 1:00pm for the Warracknabeal Lawn Cemetery. Due to COVID Restrictions this Service is for Double COVID Vaccinated Attendees Only. Your COVID Vaccination Certificate will be required. W.B. Gardiner & Son Warracknabeal 0407 340 064

Public Notice for Temporary Road Closure The public is advised that Best Street, Sea Lake from Horace Street to Sutcliffe Street, Cunningham Lane from Fraser Lane to Best Street and Howard Lane from Education Lane to Best Street from 3.00 pm to 9.00 pm on Friday 10 December, 2021 for the annual Street Christmas Party organised by Advance Sea Lake Inc, Sea Lake. The public is asked to take note of detours and roads closures that will be in place.

ST. ARNAUD UNITING CHURCH ST.ARNAUD Sunday 12th December 9.30am Worship Team Nativity Play and Empty Christmas Tree STUART MILL Combined with St. Arnaud PARISH OFFICE Chris & Rob Batters Pastorial Co-ordinators Enquiries 5495 6223 ST. ARNAUD CHURCH OF CHRIST Cnr. Queens Ave & Alma St. Third Sunday of Advent Thursday 9th December 10.30am: Faith Group Sunday 12th December 9.30am: Prayer time 10.30am: Worship & Communion Speaker: Andrew George Our Church services are open to all regardless of vaccination status. Enquiries: Brian Eccles Ph: 5495 2267

For help with any State Government matters, my office is here to help you.

DISTRICT CATHOLIC CHURCHES East Wimmera Parish BIRCHIP

Sunday December 12th 10.30am Livestream in BOORT

Sunday December 12th 10.30am Livestream in BANYENA No Mass CHARLTON

Sunday December 12th 8.30am Mass DONALD

Saturday December 11th 7.00pm Mass ST. ARNAUD

Sunday December 12th 10.30am Live Stream out to churches without Mass WYCHEPROOF

Sunday December 12th 10.30am Livestream in Parish Coordinator: Noeline Hogan 0476 617 976

Rubber Stamps North Central News (03) 5495 1055

5461 1255 LouiseStaley.com.au Louise.Staley@parliament.vic.gov.au Authorised by Louise Staley MP, 177 High St, Maryborough. Funded from Parliamentary budget

KELL FUNERALS Est 1860

PRE PAID FUNERALS AVAILABLE 24 HOURS

Ph: 5495 1043

136 Napier Street St. Arnaud

NAFD Member

Birthday wishes to: December 8th Lynette Fernandes Tanya O’Brien Daniel Baumgartner December 9th Ambrose McIntyre Brady Tillig Gabrielle Jorgensen December 10th Corbin O’Donnell Kyle Birthisel Abby McIntyre

December 11th Matt Condie Donald Palmer Hailie Jackson December 12th Drew Swanton December 14th Mark Fithall

PERSONAL CARING SERVICE CHARLTON & DISTRICT — 5492 2547

Wayne O’Toole Interim Chief Executive Officer.

Don’t forget...

St. Arnaud Country Music

CHRISTMAS CHEER CONTRACT No. C110 – 2021/2022 ROAD REHABILITATION WORKS – MCLOUGHLANS ROAD & JEFFCOTT ROAD The Buloke Shire Council invites tenders from competent and experienced contractors for road rehabilitation works at various locations at McLoughlans Road & Jeffcott Road. Further details are available at www.buloke.vic.gov.au/tenders. Tender documents are available for downloading from https://portal.tenderlink.com/bulokeshire. Tenders close 2:00pm AEDT Wednesday 22 December 2021.

December 12th, 6pm. St. Arnaud Sporting Club. Entry $10 pp. Guest Artists are: Robyn and Leon, Joe Musico, and Trevor Keilor. Must Provide double vac’s certificate. Walk ups welcome St. Arnaud Sporting Club Charlton Road, St. Arnaud Further details contact 0427 831 613

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 8th 2021 - Page 13

Your purchases supporting local communities WEIR’S IGA Community Chest raise funds in several ways but mainly through your purchase of goods with the Community Chest logo on the label. A percentage of the price goes into this fund and is distributed to local communities, charities and other worthwhile causes. This week a cheque for $3,000 was presented to the St. Arnaud Hospital from these funds. CEO of East Wimmera Health Service was on hand to receive the cheque and expressed his gratitude to the IGA staff on hand.

Right: (left to right) Sandra Craddock presents cheque to CEO of EWHS Trevor Adem as other staff look on, Kim Nevill, Chelsea Gravener, Tracey Graham and Cody Decker.

MH Gifts and Melinda’s potted plants is a new business venture COVID Updates and Developments

LAST Friday was International Day for Disability that celebrates and raises awareness of people with disability and equitable opportunities in all aspects of life. This is a perfect opportunity to feature a story of a well-known family the Hewitts and in particular Melinda Hewitt. Melinda has recently retired from her position at the St. Arnaud Laundromat where she has worked for nearly 24 years. Not one to just sit around and do the gardening, although Melinda does plenty of that, she decided to start her own business. Using her own garden as her stock supply, Melinda makes up small (6-8inch) pots using cuttings such as geraniums and rosemary in her little pots-of-colour. With recycled pots and potting mix on special, Melinda has also obtained a permit to sell her products in front of her house in Canterbury Street. Melinda is making the most of her new business venture and also selling many of the craft items she has

Victorian Statistics On Tuesday there were 1,185 new cases with 7 deaths reported in the 24 hours period. There were 52,257 tests conducted and the hospitalisation figures were 297. With 47 in ICU and 25 patients on ventilators. Vaccination rates calculated on the Over 12 eligible Victorians, 90 per cent were double dosed. Northern Grampians had 48 active cases (3 in postcode 3478) and Buloke Shire had 3 (nil in postcode 3525).

made over the years. These are marketed under the ‘MH Gifts’ brand and incorporate the logo that Melinda made at school in Year 7. An honesty system will be used with a box for purchases of the plants, but on Wednesday and Sunday afternoon Melinda will be on hand at her stall selling her crafts and also Manuka honey (the authentic New Zealand one) and handcream. Melinda’s mother Maree Hewitt says that they could not have done this without the support that they get from the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). “Melinda is a very positive story that comes out of the NDIS. “It is very exciting” she concludes.

Omicron variant The Victorian Government will maintain enhanced quarantine arrangements for overseas travellers to protect the state from the new Omicron COVID-19 variant until more is known about the strain. There are currently no known cases of the Omicron variant reported in Victoria. In line with the Australian Government’s measures, all travellers arriving in Victoria who have visited South Africa, Lesotho, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Namibia, Eswatini and Malawi during the 14-day period before their arrival must enter hotel quarantine for 14 days – regardless of their vaccination status. As the Seychelles has been removed from the Commonwealth’s list of countries of concern, Victoria will no longer consider it a country of concern. Continuing measures announced on Sunday, all other overseas travellers must complete a PCR test and isolate for a full 72 hours at a nominated address or accommodation. Travellers may exit isolation after 72 hours and following a negative PCR test. Travellers must also complete an additional PCR test between days 5 to 7 after arrival.

Right: Melinda Hewitt at her stall in front of her home in Canterbury Street last weekend.

Non/Ceased Mulesed Responsible Wool Standard Clips realising significant price premiums

* A whopping 185 fashion brands, including those pictured above, have committed to phasing out the use of wool from mulesed sheep

Wool sold last week by the Carter family – Wallaloo Park, has fetched significant premiums due to their Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) accreditation & non mulesed status. Premiums of between 15% and 30% are not uncommon week in-week out through the auction system. There are contracts available, but the auction system is reaping rewards due to heavy competition from numerous buyers trying to source the limited supply of these wool types. Consumers and in turn fashion brands globally are increasingly focused on where their product originated from. They are willing to pay whatever they need to in order to secure raw product with the animal welfare traits they are looking for and certified providence and traceability. Processors throughout the world recognise RWS and the animal, social & land welfare credibility that comes with it. The wool industry has a history of not encompassing change; Maybe now is a good time.

Page 14 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 8th 2021.

Victoria Makes Australia’s First mRNA Vaccine Candidate Victorian scientists and manufacturers have created Australia’s first mRNA COVID-19 vaccine candidate, Australia’s first ever mRNA drug product, in just five months, enabling clinical trials to begin in the new year. Minister for Innovation, Medical Research and the Digital Economy Jaala Pulford has announced 450 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been produced in Boronia, enabling 150 people to take part in Phase 1 clinical trials run by the Doherty Institute, with results expected later in 2022. The State Government invested $5 million to enable manufacture of the vaccine, with dedicated equipment shipped to manufacturer IDT Australia from Canada. The machine processed nanoparticles into final liquid drug form, sterilised the product and filled vials with mRNA vaccine. Victoria is one of the few places in the world with the capability to develop and manufacture mRNA therapeutics and vaccines and the mRNA-based vaccine breakthrough demonstrates Victoria’s leadership in the mRNA sector. The project has been led by mRNA Victoria in partnership with Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (MIPS), the Doherty Institute and IDT Australia, a landmark collaboration between Victoria’s renowned medical research and manufacturing sectors.

Above: Probus members enjoyed chatting and having a meal together.

Combined Probus Club of St. Arnaud CHRISTMAS came early for our Probus club when we had our Christmas celebrations on December 1st. Our general meeting went ahead as usual at The Masonic Lodge with all regulations adhered to. We had a minute’s silence for two recently lost members namely Esma Barratt a life member and great contributor to the club in earlier years as also was Pat Freeman. We then sang the club song accompanied by Marj Williams on the piano who made the journey up from Kyneton with husband Ray to celebrate with us. I am sure our singing was 100 per cent better. The business of the day was completed and then it was time for the usual cuppa and catch up with the added bonus of Christmas cake, compliments of Thea, we had several lucky door

prizes donated by some of the committee members. As we don’t have a guest speaker at our Christmas celebration we were entertained with some very funny jokes from Glenys Wharton/Neil Fyffe and Dawn McKay, followed by a short history from Betty McGuane on her early days starting out on the many years she spent as a kindergarten teacher. We finished up having a great sing along of Christmas carols and some of the old songs we all know and love once again with Marj on the piano before finally making our way to Country Delights where Sarah, Jenny and the staff served us a delicious Christmas dinner. The tables were all beautifully decorated

- Contributed with bon bons etc and we all put on the hats and read the usual silly jokes which we just about know by heart. We w e r e e n t e r tained by Mick playing lovely music in the background and his wife Maz who came along to help. All the members brought along a $5 gift to exchange with one another. President Sheila then called on Sarah to bring all the staff in to be thanked for the great way we had been looked after and also thanked others who had contributed to making the day a happy one. After another tough year we must be truly thankful to be able to enjoy one another’s company and from the laughter I heard I feel sure that we all enjoyed the day. Happy Christmas and may 2022 be a good one.

Above: (left to right) Sarah, Mary, Addison and Tessa.

A Picnic celebration of successful weekly visits Year 6 students from St Arnaud Primary School and McCallum Disability Service recently celebrated a successful partnership by having a picnic morning tea to applaud their weekly get-togethers. Milkshakes and Cupcakes were enjoyed by all. The morning tea capped off McCallum’s weekly visits to the Year 6 classroom which have been thoroughly enjoyed by all involved.

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NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 8th 2021 - Page 15

Hundreds run to support a safe and respectful community OVER two hundred community members participated in colour runs at Wooroonook Lake, Tchum Lake, Watchem Lake and Green Lake recently to play their part in creating a safe and respectful Buloke, free from family violence. The events were organised by youth groups and Neighbourhood Houses in Birchip, Charlton, Sea Lake and Wycheproof and funded by the Mallee Family Violence Executive and Respect Victoria as part of 16 Days of Activism. Awareness raising activities as part of the 16 Days of Activism are designed to reduce the prevalence of family violence by informing people about the impact of harmful attitudes and behaviours and encouraging them to think more about their own lives and how they can contribute to reducing gender inequality, discrimination and marginalization, which are all key drivers of family and gender-based violence. Family violence directly affects one in five Victorian women over the course of their lifetime and is the leading contributor to preventable death, disability and illness in Victorian women aged 15 to 44 years. Family and gender based violence is not limited to physical or sexual abuse, it includes emotional abuse and any threatening, coercive or controlling behaviour, psychological torment, economic control, damage to property, social isolation and any behaviour which causes a person to live in fear.

During the colour runs at the lakes on Sunday, and throughout the 2021 16 Days of Activism the Neighbourhood Houses endorsed Respect Victoria’s campaign: ‘’Respect Women: ‘Call It Out’’ (Respect is..). Respect Victoria created 16 different ‘Respect Is’ statements to promote their 2021 campaign which included: Respect is choosing not to laugh at jokes that put women down. Respect is standing up for equality. Understanding the connection between respect, gender equality and family violence is essential for achieving long-term change. The Buloke Neighbourhood Houses thank everyone who participated in the events for running towards a safe, equal and respectful future for all Victorians. Buloke Cluster Leader Simone Christie said she hoped the colour runs inspired Buloke residents to think about the types of behaviours and actions that represent and personify ‘respect’ and that everyone understands how this can have a positive impact on gender equality and family violence. “Because when gender equality exists, we all benefit” said Simone.

Above: Murphy Fitzpatrick and Henry Bourke charging through the colour station at the recent Colour Run as part of the 16 Days of Activism.

Positive short term water outlook for Victoria FOLLOWING good rains across parts of the State, Victoria’s storages are at the highest levels they have been in nine years. The state-wide storage levels are at 88 per cent, with the wetter-than-average outlook meaning no water restrictions are expected for any Victorian city or town over the next 12 months. Murray and Goulburn storages are at 95 per cent and 88 per cent. In each of these systems irrigators have received 100 per cent allocations for their high-reliability water shares with limited or no restrictions expected for licence holders. Goulburn-Murray Water is now building reserves for seasonal determinations in 2022-23.

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There are strong storage levels in most catchments with South Gippsland at 97 per cent up from 95 per cent in 2019, Geelong storages are at 97 per cent compared to 70 per cent in 2019 and Bendigo is at 100 per cent compared to 78 per cent in 2019. Severe weather events can cause water storages to fall quickly, and storms and bushfires can potentially affect water quality, demonstrating the need for a flexible and resilient water system. The draft Gippsland and Central Region Sustainable Water Strategy, has been launched which seeks the community’s views on options to meet increasing demand in a drying climate. Victorians can have their say at engage.vic.gov.au/central-and-gippsland-regionsustainable-water-strategy.

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The 2021 Pool Grand Final ELEVEN weeks, one day and ten minutes from the originally advertised starting date and time, Ben Jackson of the Logan team initiated the break in the opening frame of his match against Dave Russ of the Royal One side, signifying that the 2021 Grand Final of the Inter-Hotels’ Pool Competition at the Sporting Club had finally commenced, much to the relief of all concerned. It was an excellent break and this set the pattern for the remainder of the match’s singles encounters. The players may have been a bit rusty after the on-again off – again aspect of the season, the reason for which I’m sure does not require any explanation here and one player may have been impeded by a vaccination induced arm irritation but it was not visibly forthcoming as both players potted steadily until each was down to two balls. Dave potted one but his last ball was caressing the black however he managed to not only clear it to the open spaces but left Ben with an awkward shot and his attempted extrication resulted in a foul snooker and Dave only needed one shot to draw first blood in the Grand Final. Royal One 1 – Logan nil Next to the baize were the opposing Captains, Paul Mullins for the Logan and Mitch Phillips for the Royals and Mitch’s dynamitic break sent the quasi-ivory cascading in all directions. Paul opened the scoring but Mitch was more than up to the task, eventually down to one ball while Paul was still confronted with three. However when Mitch missed with a double attempt Paul seized on the opening and executed a nice pot along the cushion, followed this with two set-up balls at either end of the table only to be confronted with his final ball in close company with the black however he produced the shot of the match so far to insert it into a pocket then follow up with a relatively simple pot on the black. Royal One 1 – Logan 1 The next contest, or should I say no contest, was indeed remarkable. The Logan’s Des Moulday broke, the balls scurried to all parts of the table to conveniently set up everywhere for his opponent Daniel Needs. Des then set his cue down and the only thing he was required to pick up for the remainder of the frame was his beer as Daniel gleefully breezed through his selection of colours for the first break and one-visit-

only frame I have ever seen in a final, leaving Des with a pot half way to his mouth and that typical vacant expression of despair seen regularly on a Collingwood supporter’s countenance. Royal One 2 – Logan 1 A modicum of normality returned to the baize as the Royal’s Tom Hamilton broke against Troy Shields in the final frame of the opening round of singles and it was another excellent break but nothing akin to the potting smorgasbord of the previous frame. Both players quietly went about their business until Troy eventually went in-off attempting a double. However Tom’s balls were all inconveniently positioned and he was only able to dispatch one to bring the frame to level pegging at three balls lef t apiece. Troy broke the ice then when he potted his three balls in quick succession but missed on the black thus leaving Tom in with a chance. He potted two of his balls but the last was a difficult push down the cush and it jawed agonizingly in the corner pocket allowing Troy in for the kill. Royal One 2 – Logan 2 In the first frame of the second round Dave produced another excellent break and after Ben missed at his first visit Dave went to town and potted five balls so the spectre of another white-wash hovered over the table. However Dave’s two remaining balls were accompanied by the black with which he flirted dangerously, sending it perilously close to the pocket while attempting to break them out. This was to allow Ben to finally get on the board by potting three balls then after some safe play and setting up they were eventually down to two balls each. Dave sank his penultimate ball but sank himself by snookering himself on the black, he was unable to extricate himself from this misdemeanor allowing Ben to set up with his first shot then clean up to level his match with Dave. Logan 3 – Royal One 2 Paul broke in this frame against Mitch

- by Bob Wooley and it was another tantalizing result and for a fleeting moment it appeared a distinct possibility that Mitch was about to emulate Daniel’s feat of the third frame in the first round when he potted five balls in rapid succession but was unable to maintain the momentum and handed the table to Paul who opted to play safe and then repeated the ploy after Mitch had set up his penultimate. But when he finally potted it and missed his final ball Paul played a snooker which Mitch failed to negotiate. This provided the opening that a seasoned veteran like Paul needed to get back into the frame and he cut loose with the rapidity of a Coronavirus and was suddenly down to three balls however he decided to use his next shot to snooker Mitch again but he was able to extricate himself this time. He played a great shot to jaw his final ball but unfortunately went in- off. Paul potted his final ball but was unable to capitalize with his two shots on the black allowing Mitch back in to pot his final ball and almost the black at the same time. However to his and his team’s relief it stayed on the table for him to finish off with his final shot. Logan 3 – Royal One 3 Another good break, from Daniel this time and any aspirations that Des may have had for instant vengeance went into the pocket with the white ball on his first visit then after both players missed Des finally managed to pot his first ball for the night but fouled however Daniel was not to be outdone and immediately re-enacted the scenario. Then followed a sequence of relatively amateurish pool with both players potting the occasional ball until what seemed to be the inevitable frame-deciding mistake was to occur and it was to be Daniel who was to commit the offence when he fouled. Des used his first shot for a set up then played a very nice long pot to the corner which left him with easy pickings on his final ball and the black. Logan 4 – Royal One 3 Troy produced yet another excellent break in the final frame of the second round and Tom was able to open proceedings but they both then committed fouls with their next shots and

Above: 2021 Pool Premiers left to right: Des Moulday, Troy Shields, Paul Mullins, Ben Jackson. Tom appeared to be getting the upper hand until he made an absolute meal of his final ball while Troy was still staring down the barrel of five on the table. He whittled that down to three then both players missed good opportunities to claim the frame until Troy, with a difficult black, played for safety leaving it tricky but not impossible but Tom was only able to reduce the degree of difficulty and allow Troy to increase the lead to more than one game for the first time in the match when he sank the black to eliminate Tom Logan 5 – Royal One 3 In the first frame of the third round Ben broke and hit the baize running, potting one off the break then quickly followed it up with four more. Dave then missed with his first shot and when Ben dispatched his penultimate another white-wash appeared imminent but he left it on the table just a hair short of touching either side of the centre pocket and therefore a foul. This was the catalyst for dashing Dave to pot six balls in rapid succession and set up his last. However he left Ben with what appeared to be a relatively easy attack on his final ball but to everyone’s astonishment he brushed the black with his attempt and the resulting foul allowed Dave to pot out. To say he had been granted an out-of-gaol card would be an understatement and could this be a turning point in the match for the Royalists? Logan 5 – Royal One 4 Mitch produced another teeth-jarring break but the frame went along virtually pot for pot until both players had only three balls

remaining and from here the contest developed into a series of attempted set ups and ambitious shots punctuated by the first real cat and mouse play of the entire match, not surprising when you have two captains battling for supremacy, one a grizzled veteran of many a finals campaign, the other a talented young gun but it was to be the junior combatant who was to commit the error that allowed the old stager to triumph when Paul potted his final ball then the black to place the Royal firmly on the wood. Logan 6 – Royal One 4 Des broke in the final singles frame of the match then he potted three balls after Daniel fouled with his first attempt. However he bounced back, potting four balls at his next visit but missed an ambitious long pot that left Des with a good chance and the boys from the pub in the scrub had one hand on the shield. Des had two balls lined up in the corner for a simple cannon but, unfortunately for him both balls went down leaving him no shot to re-position himself for his remaining two balls and, to add insult to injury, after Daniel had missed, he went in-off with his next shot to hand Daniel the frame on a platter and save one match point.

Logan 6 – Royal One 5 Des and Ben paired up for the first of the doubles against Dave and Daniel. Ben broke and for the first time in the match it was a foul break and Dave with the re-break managed to top it off by potting three balls before going in-off. This was followed by Des potting a ball but they dithered too long over their next ploy which forced Des to hurry his shot to avoid a time foul resulting in him also going in-off. Daniel reduced their ball count to one in a difficult position while the Logan pairing still has five but they were all eminently pottable so they still had one hand on the shield but Ben attempted a questionable cannon that failed leaving Dave able to clean up his last ball to save another match point by potting the black. Logan 6 – Royal 6 This truncated, pandemic procrastinated pool season was now down to a final doubles match with Paul and Troy up against Mitch and Tom and this time it was Mitch’s turn to foul on the break leaving Paul to perform the re-break but no serious damage had been done. To m got the Royalists off to a reasonable start, potting three balls but going in-off with the third ball.

Troy could only manage one ball but Mitch potted well to reduce the Royal ball count to two while the Logan still have six so suddenly the Royalists now appear to have one hand on the shield. The tension was palpable now as all players missed some opportunities until Mitch potted their penultimate then the last with the first successful double attempt of the match but just failed with a long attempt on the black. Paul reduced their ball margin to three but they are all jammed in one corner then Tom missed with a valiant attempt on the black. Every fairytale needs a superhero to produce a miracle conclusion and to the baize quietly stepped jovial, laconic, Troy Shields. Was he going to be the Forrest Gump, emerging from the wilds of the Avoca Forest, that the team from the Pub in the Scrub so desperately needed? He slowly approached the table, studied the lay of the cuddling balls and, with most of his team and supporters unable to watch, methodically and with seemingly consummate ease, picked off the three balls then, almost as an anti-climax, potted the black to secure for the Logan the Premiership by seven games to six.

St. Arnaud Netball club coach and Committee appointments for the 2022 season THE Saints Netball club held their AGM on the 24th November. A great turn out for the AGM and a show of support to the club as it moves into season 2022. The club was very happy to report that all positions have been filled. Co-Presidents- Tony Hand & Fern Hahn Vice -president-Stacey Wandel

- Contributed Secretary- Tania Scarce Treasurer - Veronica Wilson The committee of management formed by: Imogen Amos, Jennifer Greenaway, Kirri Ezard, Jamie Torney, Nicole Amos, Isabell Hand, Carl Leach, Anne Ezard, Kelly Leach, Keegan Amos, Demi Leach, Alana Patton.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 8th 2021 - Page 17

Saints Three Shots Short

St. Arnaud Piranhas • From back page. 12 – 13 results: Austin Lowe competed in the boys 50m free, breast and back. He came first in his free and breast and second in his back. Heidi Start competed in the girls 50m free, fly, breast and back. She came first in her free, fly, and back and second in her breast. Heidi also competed in the open 100m free, fly and back where she came second. 14-15 results: Owen Lowe competed in the boys 50m free, fly, breast and back. Owen came second in his fly and third in his free and breast. Thomas Scarce competed in the boys 50m free, breast and back. Tom came second in his back. Ebony Start competed in the girls 50m free, fly, breast and back. Ebony came first in her free, fly and back and third in her breast. Ebony also competed in the open 100m free, fly and back where she came first in all of these. 16 & over results: Keegan Amos competed in the women’s 50m free, fly, breast and back and came second in the free and third in the breast. Keegan also competed in the open 100m breast. Belinda Burke competed in the women’s 50m free and back and came third in the back. Jesse Amos competed in the men’s 50m free, fly, breast and back and came second in all these events. Jordan Start competed in the men’s 50m free, fly, breast and back and came first in all these events. Jordan also competed in the open 100m free, fly, breast and back. He came first in the free, breast and back and second in the fly. Relays results: The 9 & under free relay saw Myah and Lewis competing with two others from another club where they came first. The 15 & under free relay with Owen, Tom, Heidi, and Austin came second. The 11 & under free relay with Duncan, Eliza, Forbes, and Finn came second. The 15 & under medley relay with Owen, Austin, Ebony and Tom came first. The open free relay with Jesse, Belinda, Keegan, and Jordan came first. The open medley relay with Jesse, Keegan, Jordan, and Ebony came first. The Piranhas come home with 27 gold, 14 silver and 8 bronze. Some fantastic results to start off the season. Next swim meet is on Sunday the 12th of December at Horsham. Good luck to those competing in Horsham and keep up the great work at training.

- Contributed

THE 9th round of North Central Division 1 pennant bowls saw a real close contest between Wycheproof and St. Arnaud in windy but fine conditions at St. Arnaud last Saturday. Above: The tee-shirt says it all - Xavier Heywood and Craig Cheesman were the Twilight Bowls Champions last Thursday.

Twilighters Temperature Titillated IT had been a very hot oppressive afternoon and the St. Arnaud Bowling Club rooms were keeping the players nicely air-conditioned as they waited - Contributed for the teams to be announced. The teams announced, the players spilled out the doors to be greeted by a lovely cool breeze, a clear sky and soft sunshine as they started play. Instead of the usual 10 ends, play was extended to 12 ends, in the most enjoyable conditions. There were 9 triples teams, and one pair, with most games, bar one, closely contested all evening. The exceptional team was the pair of Craig Cheesman and Xavier

Heywood, scoring a sizable 19 shot win, to secure the Country Kitchen free pizzas. Runners-up with a 9 shot win, were Tom Amos, Marg. McRae, and Leanne Pritzl. Next Thursday December 9th will be the last Twilight Bowls for this year. Twilight bowls will commence again on Thursday 20th January 2022.

Country Club Midweek Pennant - Contributed

ON a very warm day we at last gained 10 points by beating our closest neighbours. It was a great game played in fantastic sportsmanship. Heather Esmore (S) Colleen Bond, Yvonne Templar and Rhonda Pole defeated Graham Simpson (S) Maurie Wood, Lynette Arbuckle and Heather Stevenson. Rhonda Marchment (S) Amanda Marland, Lyn Moulday, and Faye Rodger defeated Sandra McIntyre (S), Garry Smith, Frank James and Diane Ostarcevic. Sue Wright (S), Trish Goode, Betty McDonald and Dianne Fullarton were defeated by the Team of Colin Marchment, Tom Amos, Margaret McRae and Betty Dyke. Singles Championship The Club Singles Championship started last Wednesday in very hot and humid weather so therefore there was only 2 matches played in the morning. Trish Goode was able to secure 3 shots on the 30th end to win in a very close match against Rhonda Marchment. Sue Wright found it very hard to pin Faye Rodger back after Faye got off to a flying start. Last Friday Heather Esmore played Trish Goode and won the match and Faye Rodger played Colleen Bond which Colleen was successful in winning. The final is to be played next Wednesday between Heather Esmore and Colleen Bond.

Above: Sue Wright President of St. Arnaud Country Club Ladies Bowls puts a bowl down during the midweek pennant against St. Arnaud. Best of luck to both players but there can be only one winner unfortunately. 60+ Pairs Commiserations to

Faye Rodger and Rhonda Pole for losing by 1 shot in the finals of the 60+ pairs in Horsham last Sunday. A great effort.

St. Arnaud Bowls Club Midweek Pennant ROUND 9 saw St. Arnaud Midweek Pennant Team playing our sister club on their home ground. With the shortage of previous players we fielded a mixed team of 6 ladies and 6 men. Colin Marchment’s side with Tom Amos, Marg McRae and Betty Dyke were the highlight of the day leading Sue Wright’s side for most of the day winning by 4 shots. Graham Simpson’s side had an interesting match. After being down up to the 19th end when they scored 6 shots, only to be repaid by

Page 18 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 8th 2021.

- Contributed Heather Esmore’s team with a two 4’s on ends 20 and 22. Overall they went down by 6 shots. Sandra McIntyre’s side struggled all day going down by 18 shots. We slipped from 5th spot on the ladder to second last. Our next game is at Korong Vale who hold top spot on the ladder. Our final game before Christmas is at home against Charlton.

St. Arnaud led narrowly overall by 5 shots after 10 ends and still held a 7 shot lead after 20 ends. But a big finish by Wycheproof, out-scoring St. Arnaud by 15 shots to a lowly 5 over the last 5 ends, gave the visitors a well – earned 3 shot victory. St. Arnaud’s only winning rink was Phil McRae, Graham Simpson, Kerryn Dyke and Greg McNally. They went to a 20 shots to 5 lead after 12 ends against George Coatsworth, but the Wyche four won 8 of the last 12 ends to narrow the margin to 6 shots. Allan Jackson, Ashley Dyke, Col Marchment and Tom Amos were locked together on 15 shots all af ter 20 ends, against Brett MacDonald, but the visitors won 3 of the last 5 ends to grab the points. Glendon Hancock, Maurie Wood, Darren Shepherd and Terry McSwain were down 412 , but got back into the game by scoring 6 shots on the 14th end against Eric Rayes’ four. But some fine bowling by the Wyche skipper and his team ensured they had an important 7 shot win. Match details P. McRae 24 def G. Coatsworth 18.

Above: St. Arnaud leader Greg McNally playing one of his consistently good bowls on Saturday. A. Jackson 17 lost to B. MacDonald 19. G. Hancock 18 lost to E. Rayes 25. St. Arnaud 59 shots lost to Wycheproof 62 shots – 2 points to 10 points. Other Division 1 results round 9 Wedderburn 90 shots def Boort 54 shots - 12 points to 0 points Donald Golf 94 shots def Donald 45 shots - 12 points to 0. Country Club 111 shots def Charlton 58 shots - 12 points to 0. Ladder pts Donald Golf 78 Wycheproof 68 St. Arnaud 62 Country Club 60 Weddernurn 60 Charlton 46 Donald 31 Boort 27

Division Two St. Arnaud Division 2 bowlers scored their first win of the season, defeating Countr y Club by 14 shots last Saturday.

Leading the charge was the four of Gary Shinners, Rob Talbot, John Prendergast and Terence Robertson, this four setting the trend for the match with 6 shots on the first end, and going to a 14 0 lead, for a 17 shot win. Graeme Shaw, Gerald McIntyre, Kell Bibby and Garry Smith had a 10 shot lead after 10 ends but managed just a 1 shot win . Wayne Rourke, Brian Eccles, Colin Coates and Peter Duncan, had a close game with scores tied at 17 all after 20 ends, but lost 3 of the last 5 ends. Match details: G. Shinners 31 def A. Marland 14 G. Shaw 23 def M. Pole 22. W. Rourke 19 lost to C. Webb 23 St. Arnaud 73 shots defeated Country Club 59 shots – 10 points to 2.

St. Arnaud Country Club Pennant - Contributed

Division 1. Played Charlton at Charlton in ideal conditions with a light breeze all day. Jason Abbott and team came out of the blocks running and had a commanding lead by half time; 28 to 6. Bill Rodger was up by 1 shot and Mark Esmore down by 5 shots. At the end of play, Jason and team continued on with strong win over Charlton 50 / 11 Bill and team came out refreshed and won the day 31 / 22, followed by Mark and team who gathered momentum over the day to win 30 / 25 A ver y comfortable win to St. Arnaud Country Club Results: J Abbott [50] def. L Southwell [11]

B Rodger [31] def. K North [22] M Esmore [30] def. K Willey [25] 111 / 58

Division 2. Played St. Arnaud at home St Arnaud got the jump on the home side and were winning all 3 rinks at half time and up by 22 shots. Countr y Club regrouped and came out fighting in the last half of the game, but St Arnaud had a commanding lead in the first half which carried them through to winning 2 of the 3 rinks. Under the experienced skipper of Chris Webb, his team won by 4 shots. And to make mention, our up-and-coming all star Danny Mullins played a solid game in supporting skipper Chris Webb.

Results: C Webb [23] def. W Rourke [19] M Pole [22] lost to G Shaw [23] A Marland [14] lost to G Shinners [31] 59 / 73

Solution No. 10023 W C R A I S S L E O A M A J P A A R D

U S P S U T R O R M U Y M R A I L D E

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

D Y O T E E R S U S E C T R A A G I G E D D E N A P L Y S

SUDOKU SOLUTION 5 6 7 4 8 9 1 3 2

4 9 3 2 1 5 6 7 8

1 2 8 7 3 6 4 9 5

7 3 2 5 9 4 8 6 1

6 4 1 8 2 3 7 5 9

8 5 9 6 7 1 3 2 4

9 1 6 3 5 8 2 4 7

2 8 4 9 6 7 5 1 3

3 7 5 1 4 2 9 8 6

Tennis action on and off the courts at St. Arnaud - Contributed

THERE was action aplenty at The St .Arnaud Lawn Tennis Courts on Saturday – only some on the courts! On the courts there were resounding wins by both St. Arnaud teams over the rival Birchip teams while off the courts there was a different type of demolition occurring, as Scott Wright and helpers pulled apart the kitchen benches and cabinetry for storage prior to the impending demolition of the clubhouse. Back on the courts, the St. Arnaud Men’s Doubles combinations proved far too strong for the Birchip combinations weakened considerably by harvest commitments, winning all four sets for a 37 – 13 games victory. It was far closer competition in the Women’s Doubles with sets won equally for a 27 – 24 games win to Birchip. However, St. Arnaud was to cruise to a 31-17 games win in the Mixed Doubles for a comprehensive 92-57 games (8-2 pts) win on the day. Three set winners were Jake Male, Callum Goode, Ned Jackson and Don Erwin. With fine conditions prevailing, and the courts having extra

Above: Birchip and St Arnaud tennis players gathered in front of the soon to be demolished clubrooms. Absent: John and Chris Goode. bounce requiring players to adjust their stroke play, it was Kara Kara with its stronger, more experienced contingent which adjusted most quickly in the Men’s Doubles, overwhelming its Birchip Wirrim opponents to win all sets for a 40-8 games win. The tables were turned as Birchip Wirrim came out firing in the Women’s Doubles winning four of five sets for a sterling 37 – 19 games win. However it was too little too late as Kara Kara wrapped up the day with a 37 – 26 games win in the Mixed Doubles and a victory 96-71 games (8-2 pts)

Three set winners were Luke and Duncan Jackson, Bailey Durward and Sam Male. The St. Arnaud players then recommenced the removal or all things movable from the clubrooms before setting in for a Pizza evening to close an enjoyable days tennis. The Saturday morning Juniors has concluded for the year due to the clubroom works and will recommence in February. However, Ladies social tennis on Wednesday mornings and Friday evenings twilight social tennis are continuing.

North Central Indoor Bias Bowls Championships THE North Central Indoor Bias Bowls Championships commenced on Sunday 1st August with the Pairs at St. Arnaud hosting the event. The first games were between Charlton’s Val O’Connor and Dot McGee and they played Boort’s Ian Potter and David Mills. Charlton lead all the way through the 12 ends and won. The other game was between St. Arnaud’s Dorothy Baldwin and Flo Andison and Wedderburn’s Bob Nicholls and Amanda Bauer. St. Arnaud got off to an early lead, Wedderburn pegged them back and went on to win by 3 shots. In the final Wedderburn and Charlton played off with Wedderburn team going on to win the Pairs Championship. On Wednesday 4th the Triples were played at Charlton. Charlton’s team of Greg Wain, Russell Round and Dot McGee played St. Arnaud’s team of Malcolm Baldwin, Win Battersby and Rolf Wacker with St. Arnaud’s team winning and going into the final. The other game between Boort’s team of Ian Potter, Gen Hudson and Alan Stringer they played

Wedderburn’s team of Bob Nicholls, Charlie Woodman and Amanda Bauer, with Wedderburn’s team winning by 1 shot and going on into the final. This was a very even game and were tied with 11 all after 14 ends and so an extra end was played to decide the winners and the St. Arnaud team got the one shot to take out the Triples Championship. Then we had the lockdown so play was held up till restrictions were eased. On Wednesday 11th the Singles were able to be played at Wedderburn. St. Arnaud’s Malcolm Baldwin played Wedderburn’s Amanda Bauer and Wedderburn easily went into the final. The other game was between Boort’s Ian Potter and Charlton’s Neil Cossar when Boort easily went into the final. The final followed the previous games when Boort easily won and become the Singles Champion. Lastly the Fours were played after another

Lockdown on Sunday Nov. 28th at Boort. St. Arnaud teams of Kaye Smith (s), Elaine Palmer, Brenda Beggs and Maria Hills played Wedderburn’s team of Bob Nicholls (s), Brian Boyton, Martin Tatchell and Margaret Bentley Wedderburn got off to a good start and went on into the final easily. The other game between Boort and Charlton with Boort’s team of Robyn Storey (s), David Mills, Ray Taylor and Nola Stringer easily beat the Charlton team of Greg Wain (s), Brad Chester, Bev Robertson and Neil Cossar. In the final Boort got off to a good start and were 8-1 on the 6th end. Then Boort lost the next 6 ends the score then 8 – 13 and with 2 ends to go Boort scored a 2 on the next ends and Wedderburn scored 1 shot on the last end and Wedderburn went on to win the rinks Champions for 2021. So at long last all the North Central Indoor Bowls Champion of Champions are finished.

Another Cup win for Greg Norman Inside running by Archie

ON Victoria’s biggest harness racing track (1239m) everybody’s favourite grey, the Greg Norman trained “Blue Coman” was the winner of Sunday’s Gunbower Trotters Cup over the championship distance of 2630m. Raced by Cormack racing and driven by Kerryn Manning the 5yo gelded son of the grey US. Stallion “Monkey Bones” began quickly from its No1 position leading for the first half a lap before allowing one of the 30m backmarkers to go to the front. At the top of the home straight the leader was feeling the effects of its early “burn” but fortunately got to the red peg in time to allow “Blue” safe passage into the sprint lane and the path to victory. A “heady” front running drive by Ashley Ainsworth was rewarded with a return to the winners list for the Yabby Dams Farm bred “Itsallandover” at Thursday’s Charlton meeting. Ashley trotted

Above: Moyreisk training partners Barry and Ashley Ainsworth with “Itsallandover” after the gelding’s Charlton success. Photo. Andrea O’Gorman straight to the front with the not always reliable 4yo and let him roll along at his own speed opening up an early break on the rest of the field. A quiet 62.5 first half of the last mile set “Itsallandover” up for a fast last half of 58.6 making it well nigh impossible for anything to catch him. Af ter Ryan

Sanderson’s last drive at Charlton on Thursday in the 5.07 race he travelled the 215ks to Kilmore for an all the way win on “Art Of Sheng Li” in the 7th race at 9.30 for Bolinda trainer Vince Vallelonga. Next Sunday is Stawell Cups Day and whilst keen racing is assured the disparity in prize money between

the two cups will be a talking point, at least amongst participants with Trotters. For an area that has produced Maoris Idol, Knight Pistol and more recently Plymouth Chubb as well as scores of other top class trotters the decision to have a $45,000 Pacers Cup and a $14,500 Trotters Cup is unfathomable.

Do you think you can solve this puzzle? Use the sequence of pictures to guess the answer

Cook See solution page 2

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 8th 2021 - Page 19

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St. Arnaud Piranhas Wimmera Sprint Meet - Contributed

PIRANHAS t ake home 27 gold, 14 silver and 8 bronze for their first swim meet of the season. The Piranhas dive in for their first swim meet for the 2021/2022 season, The Wimmera Sprint Meet at Warracknabeal on the 4th of December 2021. With four weeks of training completed the Piranhas were excited and ready to catch up and compete against their friends from the district. Eighteen Piranhas competed; Jesse Amos, Keegan Amos, Belinda Burke, Myah Carroll, Sienna Carroll, Declan Kay, Duncan Kirk, Forbes Kirk, Austin Lowe, Lewis Lowe, Owen Lowe, Archer Reyne, Eliza Scarce, Thomas Scarce, Ebony Start, Heidi Start, Jordan Start, and Finn Wilson. Special mention to Myah Carroll, Declan Kay, and Archer Reyne who competed in their first swim meet for the club. All three done an outstanding job and should be very proud of themselves.

Above: Myah Carroll competed in her first swim meet and came home with two gold medals. The Piranhas look forward to seeing you all competing in future meets. 7 & under results: Myah Carroll competed in the girls 50m free and came first. 9 & under results: Lewis Lowe competed in the boys 50m free, breast and back and came first in all three.

10 – 11 results: Sienna Carroll competed in the girls 50m free, breast and back. Eliza Scarce competed in the girls 50m free and breast. Declan Kay competed in the boys 50m free and fly and came third in his fly. Duncan Kirk competed in the boys 50m

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Above: Declan Kay competed in his first swim meet and came home with a bronze medal for his 50m butterfly. free, breast, fly and back. He came second in the free and third in the back. Duncan also competed in the open 100m free, breast and back. Forbes Kirk competed in the boys 50m free, breast and back. He came second in his back.

Forbes also competed in the open 100m free, breast and back. Archer Reyne competed in the boys 50m free. Finn Wilson competed in the boys 50m free, fly, breast and back and came first in his free and fly.

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JOHN Nevill and team played off against the runners-up Ted Pollock, Paul Mullins, L e o n Ly n c h a n d Skipper Simon Elliott For the first fourteen ends John Nevill's team were cruising to what looked like a good winning margin 13/7, and then Simon and team evened the card at the sixteenth end 13/13 - game on. At the end of the eighteenth end the scores were level 14/14 all and John Nevill's team won the deciding end by 1 shot, winning the Countr y Club Championship.

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Parmi Night Above: Winners are grinners left to right: Greg Fullarton, Tony Marland, Des Moulday and Skipper John Nevill.

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