Wednesday, November 19, 2025
ACCESS DENIED
A UNITED front of farmers and friends in Bungeluke on Monday saw communities come together with one goal.
To stop the VNI West transmission line.
Following compulsory access letters posted on fences, Transmission Company Victoria (TCV) workers have been and will be met with peaceful resistance at multiple properties along the planned line.
Residents from St Arnaud, Charlton, Wycheproof and beyond came together to support Bungeluke property owner Greg
By ALEX GRETGRIX
Roberts, who had inspectors attempting to access his land.
“We had a lady travel more than 150km to be there, we were very humbled by everyone who came to support us,” he said.
Mr Roberts said he had received a message 48 hours before the visit and a text 10 minutes before the VicGrid workers were due to arrive.
But the group was ready.
“We had done our research and one of the guys had contacted the Donald police, who also came to make sure everyone was in line
and to protect us,” he said. “We were told as long as we were all on my private property and not out on the road disrupting traffic, we were within our right to be there. The law stands at the moment.
“The two workers came and the liason officer asked to speak to the land owner.
“I came to the front of the pack and read out my pre-written statement that said ‘I will not give access to this land today’. And that was the end of that. It was short, sweet and uncomplicated.”
Mr Roberts said the group made their message quite clear to
the VicGrid workers. “There were a few questions and suggestions presented to the workers, everyone was pretty firm and stern in what they thought,” he said. “But it was all very peaceful and there wasn’t a single suggestion of violence.”
Mr Roberts said while this was the first meeting with the company, the whole project was taking its toll on everyone.
“I couldn’t tell you any farming work I’ve concentrated on in the last six weeks,” he said.
“It’s really taking its toll and I can see a massive mental health epidemic coming.
“[My wife] Robyn said she’s felt
nauseous ever since and someone made a comment that this experience has aged her.
“There’s a big tsunami coming.”
Mr Roberts said property owners along the VNI West planned line who would get visits across the next week, but he and others would be there.
“We’re all here to support each other both day and night,” he said.
“I think we’ve made it pretty clear about the widespread disagreement and all of our concerns.
“Monday was just round one.”
Mr Roberts said he had been informed of another meeting with TCV on December 8.
Farmers and residents from across the region came together to stop VNI West workers coming onto Greg Roberts’ Bunguluke property on Monday.
NCN HERALD
Circulating in the communities and districts of St Arnaud, Charlton, Navarre, Marnoo, and Bealiba
Also available in Maryborough, Avoca, Wedderburn, Donald, Wycheproof and Stawell
EDITORIAL AND ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES
Phone (03) 5495 1055
Email ncn@iinet.net.au
Web www.northcentralnews.com.au
Office 16-18 Napier Street St Arnaud 3478
Hour Mon-Tues 9am-5pm Wed 9am-1pm Thurs 1pm-5pm Fri 10-2pm
FIVE-DAY OUTLOOK
Reflections at memorial
THERE was heightened poignancy when Gordon Wright placed wreaths on the restored war memorial at St Arnaud Cemetery.
Gordon, vice-president of the St Arnaud RSL sub-branch, on Remembrance Day honoured family members who had served in World War One and World War Two and are buried in the cemetery.
In World War One, Charles and Septimus Wright both fought at Gallipoli. And then in World War Two, Gordon’s mother Ethel Estelle was an army nurse.
His father Joseph and uncles Douglas and James Wright were in the Australian army along with their brother-in-law, Bill Medlyn.
Another uncle George, who was from Donald but buried in St Arnaud, served in the Navy.
With his brothers going off to war James Wright, who hadn’t reached the minimum age for enlistment, put his age up by two years and he was accepted into the forces.
He was taken prisoner by the Japanese and spent time in Changi the prisoner of war camp in Singapore.
He was a prisoner of the Japanese and spent his 21st birthday at Changi.
The cemetery memorial was erected in memory of all exservice men and women who lie buried in the St Arnaud Cemetery.
It stands next to an Aleppo Pine tree that was grown with a seed from the original lone pine on Gallipoli. A Grant from the Victorian Government’s war memorial restoration fund in 2024 allowed the St Arnaud RSL Sub-Branch to restore the 60-year old memorial.
Leader of the band
PETER Battersby has been elected president of St Arnaud Citizens’ Brass Band. He succeeds Bruce Sutherland who led the band during its 150th year of brass band music in St Arnaud. Elected vice-president at the annual general meeting was Peter Hamilton, secretary Helen Burns and treasurer Joanne Wiseman. Bob Wooley is again bandmaster with Jane Battersby his deputy and drum major is Luke Lovegrove.
Big boost for tiny towns
THE next round of funding is open to Ripon towns wishing to make themselves small but mighty places to be.
The Tiny Towns Fund offers grants of up to $50,000 to towns with fewer than 5,000 residents – for projects that attract visitors to the town or celebrates the local community.
More than 50 community halls have been upgraded or renovated, alongside dozens of new and improved playgrounds and outdoor spaces through the fund.
Local projects that have been successful in round two of the funding include $38,090 for expansion and integration in Stuart Mill, and $31,702 for the Bealiba Hall History Room refurbishment and exterior painting project.
Gordon Wright honours his family at the restored memorial.
Dancing the day away
STUDENTS of all ages made a good song and dance in their much-anticipated annual performance over the weekend.
Dance Capital students from kinder to adults had been working hard weekly in anticipation for its two Showcase sessions on Saturday afternoon and evening.
“They really entertained and absolutely rocked,” owner Jennae Polkinghorne said. “It was so much fun with a mixture of jazz, lyrical, hip hop in both solo and group performances.
“Our feature artist was Lady Gaga and it was a great way to celebate her and come together after their last year of competing and have fun together.
“We have dancers of all ages and abilities and it’s great to see them grow and exceed.
“It’s about encouraging creativity, knowledge and passion for all aspects of performance.
“We want to see our students grow and excel individually and within their team.
A number of students were rewarded for their hard work throughout the year with awards going to:
Scholarship winners: Mia Wright, Delphi Griffith, Eliza Scarce, Georgie MacTaggart and Bailey Gigg
Performer of the Matinee
Show: Kaleisha Craddock
Performer of the Evening show: Joint winners Chad Polkinghorne and Finn Wilson
Most Improved:
Minis: Charlotte Douglas
Juniors: Ivy Ezard
Inters: Torah Watts
Seniors: Ruby Swanton
OG Seniors: Kate Marland
All Stars: Liam McSwain
Junior Hip Hop: Georgia Wright
Senior Hip Hop: Lilyana Stewart
Moments of silence for fallen
A SMALL but solemn group attended the Charlton RSL in Armstrong Street last week for the annual Remembrance Day service.
A reading of ‘In Flander Fields’ was done by Secretary Bill Freeman.
This was followed by stories of three local servicemen who failed to return home, all being killed in action.
Guests and members were invited to enjoy morning tea after the service.
IN BRIEF
Buses replacing trains PASSENGERS travelling on the Maryborough line are urged to allow extra time as V/Line carrys out its annual maintenance and infrastructure works.
Replacement coaches will operate between Maryborough, Bacchus Marsh, Ballarat and Ararat stations from Tuesday, November 18 until the last service on Friday, November 28.
All train services will be replaced by a mix of express and stopping all stations coach services, and some coaches will depart earlier than usual train times to connect with trains at Bacchus Marsh.
Works include track maintenance and ballast replacement, and signalling upgrades at Maryborough, Clunes and Creswick plus civil construction works at selected pedestrian crossings in Creswick and Ballarat.
A temporary timetable is on the V/Line website.
New mayor in Buloke? RESIDENTS in the Buloke Shire will find out who will be their mayor and deputy mayor tonight.
The council will hold its next meeting from 5.30pm at the Wycheproof Supper Room, Wycheproof Shire Hall.
View the meeting agenda and live stream the meeting on Buloke Shire Council’s website.
Tahyah Reyne (left) and Mia Wright.
Bill Freeman and Alan McGillivray.
Two of the scholarship winners Delphi Griffith (left) and Eliza Scarce.
TOP PRIORITIES
1. Better Hospitals and Healthcare outcomes
2. Better Roads
3. Addresing Cost-of-living pressures
4. Border Security
5. Lower Taxes
CHEAPER, BETTER, FAIRER ENERGY
61% Oppose both of Labor’s 2030 43% renewables target and 2050 (net zero) emissions targets
69% Don’t even want to pay $1 for net zero
To read more scan the QR code
1. Grocery prices
2. Energy bills
3. Council rates 90% of people feel cost-of-living pressure BIGGEST COST-OF-LIVING PRESSURES
4. Insurance premiums
5. Fuel expenses
CHILDCARE ACCESS & AFFORDABILITY
48% Prefer government support for stay-at-home parent
47% Cannot access and/or cannot afford childcare
39% support a Grandparent Carer Payment
BUSINESS PRIORITIES
1. Cheaper Energy
2. Reducing Red Tape
3. Cutting Taxes
4. Trades Training
ENERGY AND MINING ON FARMLAND
51% Want landowners to have a right to veto projects
41% Oppose it on farms altogether
30% Only support mining on poor farmland
Only 10% want mining prioritised on farmland
PRIMARY HEALTHCARE CONCERNS
1. Waiting times to see a doctor
2. Out-of-pocket costs
3. Wait times to see allied-health professionals
SCAMS:
SURVEY FINDINGS
1 in 5 residents have been scammed over $1,000
57% of people were scammed over the internet
24% were scammed over the telephone
Alert callers report suspicious vehicles
PRAISE has been to St Arnaud district residents calling police after spotting what could have been suspicous vehicles being driven slowly on local streets and on rural roads.
St Arnaud Police said on Friday they were impressed with the number of calls to 000.
The reports came late at night or early in morning with police saying the alertness of resident has been brilliant and asking for them to keep up the good work.
There was a lighter side to some calls. “Interestingly, many sightings turned out to be one of our police vehicles conducting night patrols ensuring community safety,” police said.
VEHICLE AND CHAINSAWS STOLEN Offender(s) have attended an unoccupied property on Reservoir Road, St Arnaud overnight on October 25 and allegedly stole chainsaws and a vehicle from open sheds. The vehicle was unlocked with keys inside. The vehicle has since been recovered.
FAIL TO STOP ON POLICE DIRECTION Overnight on October 28, a St Arnaud police patrol attempted to intercept a Ford hatchback driving around the St Arnaud CBD about 4.10am. The vehicle failed to pull over and drove away at speed. Police investigations are continuing.
STOLEN GOODS RECOVERED Investigations by St Arnaud police led them to intercept a vehicle on Charlton–St Arnaud Road 9pm on October 29. The car was being driven by a women from Buangor, aged 26, who was accompanied by a 29-year-old male from St Arnaud. A search of the vehicle uncovered goods that police allege were stolen during a recent burglary at a St Arnaud business.
Police allege she was unlicensed, driving an unregistered motor vehicle with false registration plates and she returned an alleged positive roadside oral fluid drug test.
The woman and her male passenger were both arrested and conveyed to the St Arnaud Police Station for interview. The female was released pending summons for an alleged string of offences including drive whilst exceeding prescribed content of drugs, handle stolen goods, unlicensed driving, use unregistered motor vehicle and affix false plates. Her male passenger was interviewed and released pending summons for allegedly handle stolen goods.
BURGLARY SLATY CREEK Police are investigating a burglary that took place at a Slaty Creek property between September 28 and October 31. The offender(s) rummaged through a house, forced entry to a shed where solar batteries and a generator were stolen.
CHAINSAW AND WELDER STOLEN Offender(s) have cut padlocks on a storage container located on a St Arnaud-Wyche-
proof Road, St Arnaud property sometime between October 23 and October 28. A chainsaw and welder were reported stolen.
McDONALD ROAD BURGLARY Offender(s) cut a padlock to gain entry to a McDonald Road St Arnaud property between October 24 and 26. Various items were stolen. Investigations are continuing.
ATTEMPTED INTERCEPT IN FOREST At about 2.50am on October 29, St Arnaud police attempted to intercept a Toyota utility driving on Eucy Still Road, St Arnaud East. The vehicle failed to stop at the direction of police after officers obtained the vehicle’s registration number. The vehicle has since been impounded and a male allegedly related to the offending has been arrested. Investigations are ongoing.
DRUG DRIVING Police in St Arnaud intercepted a 33-year-old from Shepparton about 4.47am on October 31. The driver was required to undertake a roadside oral fluid drug test. Police allege the driver returned a positive result for an illicit substance. The male was conveyed to the St Arnaud police station where he was interviewed and processed for his offending.
WORKSHOP BURGLARY An offender forced entry to a mechanics workshop located on the intersection of Alma and McMahon Streets St Arnaud shortly after 9.30pm on November 7. A brake tester and cash were stolen from the premises. Anyone with information and/or CCTV/dashcam footage of persons or suspicious vehicles in this area around the time of the burglary is urged to contact police.
STOLEN GOODS RECOVERED St Arnaud police recovered a stolen boat trailer located in bushland near St Arnaud last Wednesday. This item is linked to a burglary on a Sutherland Road, St Arnaud North property last month.
ALCOHOL STOLEN Police are investigating a burglary that occurred at the St Arnaud Football Club during the past fortnight. Offender(s) have methodically accessed several areas within the complex before locating a key to open a cool room. A substantial quantity of canned beer and spirit slabs were stolen. Nil forced entry was used to access to the facility. Police ask members of the community to be vigilant of any unusual gatherings where canned alcohol is being consumed.
Anyone with information is urged to contact police or Crime Stoppers.
Landcare network shares in grants
BULOKE and Northern Grampians Landcare Network has been awarded two grants in the latest round of North Central Catchment Management Authority grants.
The network will receive $20,000 for engagement events and assessment of the plains wanderer (funny looking bird) for its A Natural Connection - Culture, Capacity project.
And $6800 has been awarded to the network for events, night-time surveys and nest box production for squittel gliders. Wycheproof and District Landcare$17,265: Living and Working on the Lands - Grasslands, Wetlands and Community Engagement project. Revegetation, workshops, and grassland surveys
They are among almost $3.6 million of Victorian Landcare grants from the State Government this year.
Iberdrola Australia appointed to develop VNI West in Victoria
VicGrid has partnered with Iberdrola Australia to develop the Victorian section of the Victoria to New South Wales Interconnector West (VNI West) project. This marks an important step forward in delivering one of the state’s most significant transmission projects.
Who’s doing what for VNI West?
Earlier this month, responsibility for planning Victoria’s transmission infrastructure transferred from the Australian Energy Market Operator’s Victorian Planning division (AVP) to VicGrid. The transition is designed to bring greater clarity, coordination and long-term oversight to how transmission projects such as VNI West’s Victorian section are planned and delivered.
The existing project team Landholder Liaisons will still be the point of contact for landholders, but VicGrid will have overall responsibility for engagement with landholders, Traditional Owners, and local communities.
During the development phase, VicGrid will lead VNI West’s development with Iberdrola supporting activities such as project design, procurement, planning approvals, the Environment Effects Statement (EES) process and engagement.
What’s next
Donald and District Landcare Group will receive $19,931 for Connecting Lake Buloke with Revegetation of Lunettes. Revegetation, fencing, and field days while there is $20,000 for Wedderburn Conservation Management Network for Connect with Nature - Making tracks in the Wychitella: Restoring habitat and Reviving country. Fencing, revegetation, rabbit control, and field days
The authority’s Landcare co-=ordinator Belinda Pritchard said grants would enable community-driven initiatives to continue to protect the landscapes and waterways they love. The support grants are also really important for our Landcare groups,” Mrs Pritchard said. “They help with everything from recruitment of volunteers to covering insurance and can make a big difference for hard working groups.”
Iberdrola Australia is working closely with VicGrid to progress early works for VNI West. Over the coming months, the VNI West project team will introduce the Iberdrola Australia team to landholders and communities. Together, VicGrid and Iberdrola Australia are committed to delivering VNI West in a way that strengthens the grid, supports regional economies and leaves a positive legacy for landholders, communities and all Victorians.
Staying connected
As these changes take place, the VNI West project team remains focused on supporting landholders, Traditional Owners and the wider communities through open, respectful and ongoing communication. We’ll continue to share updates so you can stay informed as the project and transition progress.
Website: transmissionvictoria.com.au
Email: enquiries@transmissionvictoria.com.au
Free call: 1800 824 221
Facebook: @TransmissionVictoria
Games and karaoke part of disabilty day celebrations
PARTICIPANTS from McCallum Day Services St Arnaud have taken part in 2025 International Day for People with a Disability for the Buloke Shire.
Sportswoman Kathy Campbell facilitated the fun session. that also involved Intereach Swan Hill.
Rhonda Allan, of the Mallee Sports Assembly, thanked Kathy for her volunteer time and support to inclusive sport and recreation and being part of the day.
Emily Mills of DCIRS Donald assisted with the co-ordination of the day.
All service providers present had the opportunity to speak about their role and how they can support people with a disability.
“On behalf of all the families, staff and participants, and other community members, we sincerely thank all these organisations for their wonderful support-very much appreciated,” Rhonda said.
The morning session saw sports activities followed by lunch, karaoke and dancing.
A SURREAL, bizarre and darkly comic film, Bugonia unites the talents of Emma Stone and Jesse Plemons in a movie sure to amplify social commentary when it screens at The Rex in Charlton this weekend.
Directed by film maker Yorgos Lanthimos’ (Poor Things, The Lobster, The Favourite), Bugonia is loosely based on the 2003 South Korean cult thriller, “Save the Green Planet” – highlighting the interaction humans have on the planet.
Bugonia is about Beekeeper Teddy (Jesse Plemons) and his autistic cousin Don (Aidan Delbis) – two crazed conspiracy theorists - who hatch a scheme to kidnap Michelle Fuller (Emma Stone), who is the CEO of a big biotech firm, believing that she is one of the high-intelligence alien race from Andromeda who is controlling humans on earth.
Restraining Michelle in his dingy basement, Teddy’s verbal confrontations with the high-powered CEO begin politely, but her cool and insinuating words rile him, exposing his many layers of grief, trauma, bitterness and disillusionment, especially concerning politics.
Referencing a multitude of themes across the human condition - class conflict, corporate greed, abuse, big pharma, internet-based conspiracy theory and revenge of the little guy – we are unsure if the unnervingly in control Michelle – even when she is incapacitated –really is from the otherworldly planet.
Stellar performances by Stone and Plemons are complimented by autistic actor Aidan Delbis in the role of Teddy’s cousin. This is a movie to stimulate the brain cells, so why not give it a go!
Bugonia is a Greek word from antiquity meaning “oxen-born”. People believed that bees could spontaneously arise from the decaying flesh of a sacrificed bull, thereby creating a conceptual reference for death and renewal.
The hospital float in the 1964 back-to parade
Looking back on history
CHARLTON Probus Club members have watched videos of major events in the town’s history. The Golden Grains Museum DVD with footage of the 1956 flood, 1964 citizens‘ band, 1947 tree-planting at the Charlton Community Forest, 1964 Back To Charlton and the 1991 fire at St Joseph’s Church, was shown at the club’s November meeting attended by 45 members.
Kathy Campbell, Peter Ryan, Kim Ryan, Jodie Vole (AXIS Employment), and Jade AbbottBurke (McCallum staff) at the celebrations
Meet your local Lending Specialist
Meet Kristy Jones, your local Customer Relationship Manager.
Kristy is here to support the St Arnaud community with services such as account opening, residential lending, business banking, agribusiness, insurance, managed funds, internet banking and more.
Our St Arnaud office is open 10–3pm on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday (closed for lunch 12.30–1pm).
Find out more. Call Kristy on 0448 742 059, drop in to 88 Napier Street or search Bendigo Bank St Arnaud.
Electronic doof beats in bush
THOUSANDS of revellers went through multiple ticket and security checks before pulsating to their kind of music deep in the bush at Caropooee West.
Tickets were shown and security checked people’s ID for ages, scanning vehicles for prohibited glass, as people arrived at the 9th Wild Horses electronic music festival on Friday.
There were way more Audis than farmer and tradie utes in the carpark and camp area accommodating the crowd at its capped 2000 attendance.
Camper vans, some with livery throwing back to the Flower Power symbols of the 1960s, sat next to gazebos and tents.
Once inside, the revellers wandered to performance and activity spaces that organisers said aimed to “create a safe environ-
ment to enjoy freedom in its full sense” for the crowd.
Many had made the festival pilgrimage from Melbourne and major regional centres days earlier, crews setting up performance stages and erecting psychedeliccoloured sculptures had stayed at motels in St Arnaud.
St Arnaud’s Sgt Daniel Brady and Sgt Rob Binks were among police from across the region wandering through the festival site over the three days.
The mobile police caravan was staffed by teams of seven police in rotating 12-hour shifts.
Early police reports said the crowd had been behaved.
Wild Horse was not one of the 10 sites part of the State Government’s pill testing service trial operating at music festivals in 2025-2026.
Work on the Best Technology in Ag — In Your Hometown!
Heavy Diesel Mechanic
– Rupanyup
Are you a qualified Heavy Diesel Mechanic looking for a new challenge — and the chance to work with the most advanced farming technology in the industry?
Join Emmetts, an Australian family-owned John Deere dealership, and be part of a team that’s shaping the future of farming.
Why You’ll Love Working With Us
z $42–$65 per hour + Vehicle + Penalty Rates (based on experience)
z Structured career levels — know what it takes to progress
z Genuine career paths across 15 branches in VIC & SA
z Family-first culture with flexible working options
z Training with John Deere University + mentoring from Master Techs
z Employee wellbeing support via Mind Fit & EAP
z Salary packaging, purchased leave, paid parental leave & more
What You’ll Need
z Cert III in Heavy Diesel (or Truck/Ag Machinery background)
z Diagnostic and troubleshooting skills
z Great communication and teamwork
z Current driver’s licence & full working rights
At Emmetts, we work hard to keep farmers farming.
Sound like you? Scan the QR code or visit www.emmetts.com.au to apply. You can also contact Beck (Recruiter) at careers@emmetts.com. au.
New energy ‘alarm bells’ sounds in health study
A NEW study has shown farmers and communities are buckling under the mental health strain posed by energy and mining developments.
The Federation University study was conducted between February and June.
Wimmera and Southern Mallee farmers were used in the study as the Victorian Farmers’ Federation says there should be alarm bells with “crash or crash through” approach of projects across Victoria.
At least four wind and solar projects have been proposed for the Boort and Pyramid Hill districts while the VNI West renewable energy transmission line would be in part of the Loddon Shire.
The Federation University study focused on 17 farmers and found:
Mental health impacts are real.
Rural solidarity is under strain.
Farmers are losing their identity and role.
Family connection to the land is strong.
Farmers are proud stewards of the environment.
VFF president Brett Hosking said the findings were a stark reminder of the hidden challenges farmers faced in the face of accelerating land use conflicts.
“So often we hear about the visual impacts of these energy and mining developments, but we can’t dismiss the hidden strain on communities and farmers’ mental health,” he said.
“It’s incredibly daunting when these huge corporations backed by our government sreamroll onto your farm and wave a compulsory access notice at you threatening to remove your most valuable resource, without first taking the time to talk.
“Tragically an Australian farmer dies by suicide every 10 days. That’s more than
twice the rate of other working Australians.”
“This independent academic assessment confirms what communities and the VFF have been saying.
It should sound alarm bells that this crash or crash through approach is having deep human and community impacts,” Mr Hosking said.
Despite the enormous issues highlighted in the study, it found potential solutions to reduce the stress on farmers and the local community, including:
Validate emotional responses and prioritise community.
Strengthen legislative and policy protections for agriculture and farmer wellbeing.
Improve confidence and security around decommissioning and rehabilitation.
Inclusion of agricultural and sociocultural impacts in future planning processes.
Introduce geographic and cumulative impact analysis into project assessment.
Community benefits need community.
“So much tragedy and stress could be avoided if the process was flipped on its head and the community and farmers were genuinely consulted from the beginning,” Mr Hosking said.
“We need to urgently increase mental health services in these communities to provide much-needed support. These companies and our government can still do that, it’s not too late.”
Brett Hosking
Festival goers head to the music performance area at Wild Horses. NCN PHOTO
Sgt Daniel Brady and Sgt Rob Binks (second and third left), at the festival
Dancing to the electronic beat at Carapooee West at the weekend
Students on mission creating colour, fun
STUDENTS at St Patrick’s Primary School St Arnaud have came together in true community spirit raising funds for Mission Month through a series of exciting and creative events.
Each year level took on the challenge of hosting their own fundraiser, with activities that brought plenty of colour, laughter and generosity to the school grounds.
The Prep, Year 1 and Year 2 students kicked off the celebrations with a special Movie and Popcorn Day, transforming their classrooms into cosy cinemas.
Students enjoyed their favourite films while sharing popcorn with friends – a simple but delightful way to contribute to the cause.
The Year 3 and 4 classes turned up the fun with a Crazy Hair and Crazy Sock Day, followed by a lively lunchtime disco.
The playground was full of bright colours, wild hairstyles and plenty of dance moves as students raised money and celebrated together.
Rounding out the week, the Year 5 and 6 students organised a Mini Fete and Colour Run, drawing the school community into
the fun. With games, stalls, treats and a splash of colour, the event was a joyful highlight that capped off the fundraising efforts.
Teacher and wellbeing officer
Jack Abbott said: “Through these events, students learned the importance of giving back and supporting others, while enjoying a week of teamwork and creativity.
“St Patrick’s staff and students are proud to have raised funds to support Mission Month, helping those in need and living out the school’s values of compassion, community and service.”
GRAVEL SUPPLIES
Shires chip in $60k to make election pitches
SIX councils will spend $60,000 to boost advocacy ahead of next November’s Victorian election.
Northern Grampians Shire councillors last week backed a six-month trial to lift regional advocacy with its $10,000 contribution.
Buloke Shire, Yarriambiack Shire, Horsham Rural City, Hindmarsh Shire and West Wimmera are also expected to be part of the Wimmera Southern Mallee Council collective’s push.
Northern Grampians CEO Brent McAlister said some of the key issues and challenges had been identified at a workshop of the councils.
Mr McAlister said councils wanted regional advocacy for strong relationships with state and federal governments, on housing shortages, transport, the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund Levy, health
services, early years facilities, workforce shortages, council resourcing, mining, renewables, water and community benefits.
“Since the workshop, a proposal has been developed to run a six-month trial with the six Wimmera Southern Mallee Councils around regional advocacy,” he told councillors.
“This will be particularly focused on the run up to the state government election in November.”
Mayor Karen Hyslop, Cr Murray Emerson and Mr McAlister represented Northern Grampians at the workshop.
“This collaborative group of representatives has met regularly for some years,” Mr McAlister said.
“The proposed alliance advocacy activities will continue under this group and be chaired by the Mayor of the Horsham Rural City Council.”
Wrong priorities threaten community hub future: MP
MISPLACED priorities were risking the future of Victoria’s neighbourhood houses.
Mildura MP Jade Benham has backed the role the community hubs play in country towns as Neighbourhood Houses Victoria calls on the State Government to increase annual funding by $11.7 million.
Charlton Neighbourhood House has been among groups calling for better funding.
“Our Neighbourhood Houses are safe, supportive and welcoming environments that respond to the unique needs of their communities,” Ms Benham said.
“These are the places where people find belonging, learn new skills and get the help they need to get back on their feet.
“They can also be the heartbeat of small towns.
“They offer services that make them places where people can connect, learn and contribute.
“I’m furious that the Premier would rather pour $2 billion into the MCG than secure the future of Neighbourhood Houses that actually change people’s lives.
“It’s another example of how wrong Labor’s priorities are.”
Trio gains allied health experience
AMALI Fitzpatrick, Josie Larmour and Sheena Fitzpatrick have completed five weeks of allied health work placement as part of their Certificate III studies.
The Charlton College VET students last week took part in a debrief on their experiences. Josie undertook her place-
ment with East Wimmera Health Services at its Charlton campus while Amali and Sheena travelled to St Arnaud to Kara Court Nursing Home.
They shadowed staff and assisted with duties such as planned activities, making beds and assisting with the movement of patients and residents.
Matilda Kirk and Jaylah Campbell getting in the spirit of the colour run.
Ethan Douglas and Will Sanderson.
Bobby Baldwin with volcano hair.
Join Early Learning Victoria
The Victorian Government is hiring for roles at our centre, Early Learning Victoria Wedderburn.
Join a team delivering highquality early childhood education and care, in government-run centres across Victoria.
You will:
• be part of the new Victorian government-run early learning and childcare centres
• foster children’s development and wellbeing in our high-quality learning environments
• build your career with access to professional learning and development opportunities.
Horizon project is tops
A LOCAL sustainability organisation has been rewarded for its work in bringing groups together to go toward a greener future.
A project run by Buloke and Northern Grampians Landcare Network, Windharp Horizons, has won the Environment Category at the Tiny Towns & Cities Sustainability Awards (Keep Australia Beautiful - Victoria).
The award acknowledges the collaborative effort behind the project — the Landcare team, participating farmers, and partner organisations all contributing to measurable outcomes for both people and nature.
“Our goal is to continue developing Windharp Horizons into a long-term model for regenerative landscape investment — one that supports farmers, enhances biodiversity, and contributes to climate resilience,” program pilot landholder advocate Dougal McAllister said.
The program has ten local farmers who have undertaken detailed whole-farm assessments through Regen Farmers Mutual’s Digital Twin platform.
“These assessments map soils, vegetation, biodiversity, and carbon emissions across each property to identify areas suitable for regenerative management and potential environmental investment.
“The approach combines local knowledge with data to create property-specific action plans.
“Farmers have responded positively, finding the process useful for visualising the natural capital already present on their land and planning improvements that align production with environmental outcomes.”
The results from the pilot farms have informed the development of Landscape
Action Plans that guides future funding opportunities and identify high-priority restoration zones across the network area.
“However, environmental markets are still hard to access on small and medium scale,” Mr McAllister said.
“Markets would include carbon, either soil or trees but also biodiversity offsets.”
He said awards such as these shine a light on the importance of many sources of knowledge coming together for a common goal.
“Through collaboration with local land-
Network members discuss their awardwinning project
WOOL REPORT
IT WAS a welcome week for the wool market with solid increases across the majority of merino MPG’s (Micron Price Guide) seeing the EMI (Eastern Market Indicator) finish the week at 1458, an increase of 39 cents.
On Tuesday, the first day of selling all three selling centres operated, and the full range of merino combing types were targeted by oversees mills with a general increase of 20 to 40 cents, while crossbred types held previous weeks values with minimal single digit changes which resulted in an overall increase of 15 cents to 1434 for the EMI.
Day two the market was again positive and managed to add another 30 to 40 cents across all merino MPG’s and crossbred fleece sold in a similar trend to the day before with minimal change. With the full range of merino combing fleece gaining value the best performing MPG’s finished the week gaining up to 77 cents, it appears the current low supply and recent demand signals are having an effect across the whole merino micron range for combing types primarily.
holders, community groups, and regional partners, BNGLN is demonstrating how regenerative agriculture and environmental restoration can work hand in hand,” he said.
“By aligning local action with global sustainability goals, Windharp Horizons positions the Buloke and Northern Grampians Landcare Network as a leader in landscape-scale regeneration, showing how small communities can play a major role in shaping a sustainable agricultural future.”
Merino cardings prices continue to wane with the MCI (Merino Carding Indicator) sitting at a percentile of 37 telling that demand for those end products aren’t in the same demand boat, when in comparison the 19 to 30 micron MPG’s are at 97-99 percentile when compared to the last five years. It is worth noting Fremantle sold on Tuesday only, so their MPG’s are missing Wednesdays (second day) gains.
Current supply of merino fleece across all states sits at a tested average micron of between 18.5 to 19 micron and the volume of 21 and broader is getting less and less. The 22 micron MPG is only quoted out of Melbourne last week and in the North, there was not enough volume of 21 microns to quote.
Glendon Hancock Glendon.Hancock@elders.com.au
143 LOCK RD, ST ARNAUD
16 QUEENS AVE, ST ARNAUD
Saturday Nov 22nd, 10:30am-11am.
Classic Charm Meets Comfort
Nestled in a quiet, well-established street, this solid brick three bedroom home offers the perfect blend of character and comfort. 1050sqm block.
$550,000 OPEN INSPECTIONS
Selling Agent: Tristain Douglas 0458 087 619
Lifestyle Farmlet on the Edge of Town
A rare opportunity to secure a highly sought-after 40-acre lifestyle property just a short walk from the heart of St Arnaud.
$675,000
1 BEACONSFIELD ST, ST ARNAUD
Saturday Nov 22nd, 11:15am-11:45am.
Freshly Renovated 3 bedroom home in the heart of St Arnaud
$380,000
Agents: Tristain Douglas 0458 087 619 / Brett Douglas 0447 162 455
Selling Agent: Brett Douglas 0447 162 455
0 WIMMERA HIGHWAY ST ARNAUD EAST
Tranquil Rural Property, Natural Beauty
Escape to your own private countryside retreat featuring two dams and a seasonal creek, creating the perfect balance of natural beauty and reliable water sources.
$250,000
Selling Agents:
Tristain Douglas 0458 087 619 / Brett Douglas 0447 162 455
50 Years Ago
November 1975
Engagements - Jenny Plozza and Rowan Dewhurst.Christine Lynch and Shane Hogan. Lynette Davies and Greg Wescott.
Golden Wedding - Mick and Ruby Andrews who were married at the St Arnaud Church of England on 28th November 1925.
Births - Len and Marcia Amos nee Lynch, a daughter Trudi Leanne. Judith and Pat Ginnane a daughter Donna Patrica. Bruce and Lorraine Greenaway nee Bibby, a son Daniel Bruce. Ross and Kathleen Vallance nee James, a daughter Wendy Michelle.
21st Birthday - Colin Dooley.
Deaths - Mrs Elvie Aubrey age 60, widow of Howard Aubrey who died in 1970. Mrs Helen Johns nee Dunbar age 29, wife of Les.
Murdoch House: The contracts have been signed with Renwick Constructions of Deniliquin to build the Murdoch House complex in Long st, at a cost of $310,000 to be completed in 47 weeks.
It is hoped to raise $65,00 by December.
The Lions Club ran a gymkhana as a fundraiser in aid of the building fund but due to bad weather attendance was poor and $600 was raised.
A display of hang-gliding was given by Australian champion Len Judd.
He and his kite were pulled aloft by Jack Hargraves with a horse and sulky towing him up the straight of the trotting track.
Judd turned at 300 ft over the plantation at the rear of Lord Nelson, finally landing in the centre of the arena.
Among the ten Pony Club events was apple race.
Under 12 years section awards went to Cathy McKay for 1st, Janet Petrie for 2nd and Chris Kearnan for 3rd.
The barrel race for the under 15 years section was won by Elizabeth Crone, Daryl Baldwin in 2nd and Annette Kelle-
her came 3rd.
The day included eight trotting races where ‘Spike’ driven by Dennis McIntyre made his first appearance after returning from stud.
A highlight of the day was the pony trot won by Jim Thompson’s ‘Sally Nellie’, 2nd was Barry [Snooky] Torney’s ‘Dynamite’, 3rd was Allan [Snow] Williams “Tommy the Nut’ followed by Jack Williams’ ‘Nugget’ and Keith McKay’s ‘Skeeta’.
A fancy dress ball at Paradise raised $40 for Murdoch House, with Ross Pritchard providing the music and Robert Gifford [soldier] acting as MC.
Prizes were won by Kathryn Austerberry [Black Mammy] Andrew Bibby [Swagman] Bruce Slorach [Man of the Apes] and Isabel Supple [Purple People Eater].
Originally this event was to be a wind up of dancing classes held by Isabel Supple with music by Frank Raeburn, Jack Beatie and Jeff Bibby over several weeks.
Prizes for the classes were awarded to Barry Wiseman for most improved, Geoffery Beatie for best manner and Daryl Gifford for being the one who enjoyed himself the most.
PICKLES
100 Years Ago
November 14-18
A Sudden Call: The sudden death of Cr Samuel Wood occurred while returning from a visit to his farm at Wooroonook, when he was seized with a sudden heart attack which proved fatal. The late Mr Wood was born at Leopold and came to Charlton when seven years of age. He had been a Councillor for seven years. He was President of the Agricultural Society and was a prime mover in getting the water scheme for Charlton. He was a permanent Justice of the Peace. He was a keen supporter of the Football, Tennis and Bowling Clubs. His family life was a most happy one. He leaves a widow, Mary, and daughters Elsie, Violet and Blanche.
Not So Hot: Shade temperatures registered at the Post Office are as follows:Thursday 82, Friday 93, Saturday, 90, Sunday 92, Monday 91, Thursday 89. So far, only 14 points of rain has fallen for November.
Gun Club: The Annual meeting was held at the Vale of Avoca Hotel. Elections were held – President, Mr W. Halligan; Vice-Presidents, Messrs N. Frahm and W. Lazarus; Treasurer, Mr I. A. O’Donnell; Committee, Messrs R. Luth, R. H. Klunder, W. McAuliffe, A. J. White, J. T. Dwyer and H. Butterworth. The club finances are in a very sound state, with a credit balance of approx. £79. A vote of thanks to Mr J. M. Smith for the able manner in which he had carried out his task as secretary was moved. The annual subscription will be 5/-. A £50 galah shoot will be held on Boxing Day providing birds and the necessary permission could be obtained.
Band Rotunda: A well-attended public meeting was held in the Victoria Hall to consider the question of combining the erection of the Band Rotunda with the memorial of the late Mr Green. The proposal to erect a rotunda had been delayed, due to finding a suitable site, but it was now to be in the Triangle. Mr Green was a great sport and a keen public-spirited man and the least that Charlton could do was to honor
him in a fitting way. An appeal had been made to the many friends of the late Mr Green who had left Charlton and over £30 has been donated. £200 is now in hand out of the £400 needed.
Glenloth: The bazaar held at Glenloth in aid of the hall funds was a financial and social success. The various stalls were attractively arranged. The soft drinks stall, in charge of Misses Thompson and O’Connor, raised £17/10/-. The fruit and sweets stall, under Misses Dorrie Hosking, Turnbull and Mrs Peter, was tastefully laid out, and takings amounted to £3. Mesdames Street and Storey and Miss R. Storey had charge of the produce stall, taking the sum of £9/2/-. Other stalls were: jumble, shooting gallery and high tea. When the bazaar was finished the hall was cleared for dancing and continued until the “wee small hours.” It is estimated the sum of £70 will be realised from the affair.
Cricket: Narraport visited Charlton and scored an easy victory. Charlton team: R. Landmann, I. A. O’Donnell, T. M. Hogan, Rev. A. V. Day, Irwin, J. Pollard, Rev. Fitzgerald, R. Curnow, C. Luth and G. Hudgson. Rev. Day top scored with 31 out of a total of 74. Narraport scored 7 for 139. Tennis – River v St Joseph’s: Some scores - Mrs O’Brien and N. Maher lost to L. Soding and A. Fanning, 4-6; Mrs Heenan and E. Maher lost to M. Soding and Mrs Spencer, 5-6; Mollie and Maggie Sait defeated N. Dullard and W. Jenkyn, 6-0; Mrs Kelly and J. Keane lost to E. Bennett and Nancy Bourke, 3-6; H. and C. Powell lost to W. Soding and J. Dullard, 3-6; JR. Sait and N. Ryan defeated Hogan and Box, 6-0; C. Maher and M. Heenan defeated W. Killeen and J. Lazarus, 6-2; B. Caldwall and G. Sait lost to W. Patton and P. Dullard, 3-6; T. Murphy and H. Sait lost to Rev. Fr O’Shannassy and G. O’Brien. Games:- River, 91; St Joseph’s, 87.
SUDOKU
Charlton councillors in 1906
When it Raiyns, it pours
By ALEX GRETGRIX
YOU could spend hours sitting down with Dusty-Raiyn McIntyre about all of the clubs and organisations she’s involved in.
All connected in some way with a purpose of being a voice and advocating for the youth in St Arnaud.
It’s all kept her quite busy over the last few years - despite “cutting back” this year to make room for her Year 12 studies.
But she says she wouldn’t change it for the world.
“I do it all because I enjoy it,” she said.
“If I can leave any kind of legacy, I want it to be creating a path for young people to be listened to.”
Being listened to and being heard is something Dusty-Raiyn was taught from a very young age.
As the youngest sibling of eight children, she said there was a lot of debating and meaningful conversations happening at home.
“My mum would always encourage us to speak our mind, especially if we didn’t agree with something,” she said.
“But it was always important to do it in a way that allowed you to get your point across in a respectful way.
“I really learnt a lot about myself in those years.”
It was those formative years that set Dusty-Raiyn up for her time in youth debating clubs, youth parliament and youth groups themselves.
But she soon realised these organisations were very metro-focused or not local enough.
“A friend and I joined the youth group in Stawell because it was the closest one we had,” she said.
“I remember sitting in each meeting thinking we could be doing this in St Arnaud.
“It was great being able to help where you can, but when you know all the issues arising at home, you can’t help but think of how you can take these ideas and initiatives and mould them into something that will work here.
“And even at Melbourne clubs,
there’s a lot of focus on the city and nothing rural kids can relate to.
“And that’s when the seclusion and feeling of exclusion starts all over again.”
Since then, Dusty-Raiyn has been able to use her voice for good closer to home, meeting with clubs to show them how they can lend a hand to youth
members of the community.
“Even on the day of our Youth Fest a few months ago, we had Lions and Rotary club members there, more than happy to help out where they could,” she said.
“It’s great to see that inter-generational connection we didn’t have for a long time.
“And that’s what it’s all about, forming a connection and mak-
ing people feel like they are listened to and supported.
“There’s still a long way to go, but it’s progress.”
And while her future career path hasn’t quite come into focus just yet, Dusty-Raiyn has made up her mind on what she doesn’t want to do.
“I get so many people telling me I should become a politician,”
Good and bad and the future ...
By Cr STEPHEN BARRATT
AND what a year its been since being elected a Buloke Shire councillor. Did it live up to my expectations going into local government? One would say yes and no.
As I had been on the other side of the fence, employed by the City of Perth in a leadership role, I had some insight to the operational side at least of a large council and the paper shuffling one does.
That, I must say, didn’t prepare me for the endless barrage of reports and the like that a small shire like Buloke does to appease state bureaucracy so they can do the paper dance.
While some of those papers are necessary for community benefit like budget and financial statements, others are a impost to the
council and at great cost with little benefit as far I am concerned.
These do take away from a small council like Buloke and similar councils’ resources, which would be better spent on delivery of services.
That said, our council does,
with resources afforded it, a great job and is to be commended on that.
It isn’t easy and I along with fellow councillors are committed to doing what is best for the community.
I have had good support from my fellow councillors, which I am grateful for and those staff I interacted with also.
So far, it’s had moments of good and not-so-good.
The good has been seeing the community coming together at Anzac Day, citizenship ceremonies. Along with well-supported sporting groups and the many quiet achievers whom are involved usually as a volunteer in community organisations. They probably do not get recognition but deserve a pat on the back as without them the cost to community would be huge. I was disap-
she said. “And sometimes I think I could, but I think I have too strong a morals and I’m too subborn about them.”
But her struggles to decide hasn’t stopped her passion for helping others in the mean time.
“I want to get others to help us with this fight,” she said.
“It’s never been more important to be a part of it.”
lessons in a year
pointed in the way the Estortric Festival was handled from our perspective.
We could have done better.
I won’t go into old ground but it was a great loss to a small shire. The benefit was immense to our area. One hopes lessons have been learnt from all concerned.
Other disappointments are the way renewables and the like are dividing our towns. We should be better as a community.
Let’s think positively and try and see others perspective without division.
And no, I am not debating the issue. I have my opinion on it and will keep it to myself.
So has it been worthwhile putting my hand up for council?
In the main, yes. And as all out there know, lots of serious stuff is coming at our communities.
While we would probably like
to bury our heads in the sand, we can’t. So I would ask for civil communication to each other and try and put yourselves in each others position before we act.
With a new council term almost here, I think we could strive to do better. I know its easier said than done, but by all means achieveable.
With our appointment of a new CEO, who I believe will be of real benefit to the shire, I for one am looking forward to working alongside Dan McLoughlan. So onwards and upwards to all the challenges that may present in the future and I hope the community comes along for the ride as well.
Cr Stephen Barratt is a councillor for the Lower Avoca Ward of the Buloke Shire Council.
Dusty-Raiyn McIntyre has a lot on her plate, but she wouldn’t have it any other way NCN PHOTO
Cr Stephen Barratt
EMPLOYMENT
Careers at Loddon
Loddon Shire Council is seeking applications for the following positions from highly motivated, enthusiastic, energetic and outcome focused individuals who want to make a difference and help shape our future.
Local Laws/Animal Control Officer
z Full-time, permanent position
z An attractive salary range of $67,834.52
- $72,556.12 per annum plus employersuperannuation
z Based at the Wedderburn Office Applications for the positions above will close on Monday 1 December 2025 at 5pm.
Tractor Operator
z Full-time, permanent position
z An attractive salary range of $68,174.72 - $70,528.47 per annum plus employersuperannuation
z Based in the Loddon Plains team Applications for the positions above will close on Monday 24 November 2025 at 5pm.
Early Childhood Educator
z Casual position
z An attractive hourly rate of $33.96
z Work across one, some or all of Council’s five sessional kindergartens Applications for the positions above will be considered as they are received For further information, including a detailed position description and details on how to apply, please visit Council’s website www. loddon.vic.gov.au or contact Council’s Organisation Development Unit on (03) 5494 1200.
JOB VACANCIES
Campus Base Negotiable
Domiciliary Nurse
Acting Director of Primary Care
Birchip
Administration Assistant
Donald
Home Support Administration
Assistant
Resident Lifestyle Coordinator
St Arnaud
Primary Care Administration Officer
Food and Domestic Service
Assistant Wycheproof Laundry Assistant
Food and Domestic Service
Assistant
District Nurse
Resident Lifestyle Coordinator
Further information available at: https://ewhs.org.au/careers
EWHS is an Equal Opportunity Employer, we welcome applications to all positions from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, LGBTQI+ People, and People of All Abilities.
MEETINGS
St. Arnaud Harness Racing Club Inc.
Wednesday, 26th Nov 2025 7pm @ Tony Driscoll Room Everyone most welcome
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Monday 24th November 2025 at 6.30pm
East Wimmera Health Service
Donald Campus- Large PAG Room
EVERYONE WELCOME
- Business -
• To confirm the Minutes of the previous Annual General Meeting.
• Guest speaker – Cheryl Martin, Strategic Manager (Loddon Mallee Integrated Cancer Service (LMICS) and Professor Leigh Kinsman, Chair of Rural Health Research (Latrobe University) to discuss Regional Partnerships in Cancer Service Improvements: A Focus on Skin Cancer
• To receive the Report of the Board of Directors and Audited Statements of Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2025.
• Acknowledgement of Board of Management Appointments.
Friends
ST ARNAUD HOCKEY CLUB AGM
DATE: Thursday 27th of November TIME: 6.00pm
• Acknowledgement of staff 20 years of service.
• Presentation of staff and volunteer awards.
To transact any other business of which at least seven [7] days’ notice in writing has been given to the undersigned.
RSVP - Advise your attendance by 10th November 2025.
T: 5477 2129 or E: starnaud@ewhs.org.au
Please send questions for the AGM to the above email address by Monday, 17 November 2025.
By Order of the Board of Directors Trevor Adem
BIRTHS
Naomi and Philippe Fernandez are delighted to announce the safe arrival of their daughter, Clara Elizabeth Fernandez, born on 25th September 2025, little sister to Leo.
A sweet granddaughter for Leigh and Sue Sutton of Logan and Cheryl and Jean Fernandez of Darnum. Dear great grandchild number 11 for Betty Sutton to cherish.
CHURCH NOTICES
ANGLICAN PARISH OF ST. ARNAUD
CHURCH NOTICES
UNITING CHURCH
ST. ARNAUD / STUART MILL
Sunday 23rd November
Worship Service at Stuart Mill
10.00am
Geoff Postlethwaite. All Welcome.
PARISH OFFICE
Chris & Rob Batters
Pastorial Co-ordinators
Enquiries: 5495 6223
DISTRICT CATHOLIC CHURCHES
East Wimmera Parish
BIRCHIP - Sunday November 23rd
10.30am - Live Stream in
BOORT - Sunday November 23rd
10.30am - Live Stream in BANYENA - No Mass
CHARLTON - Sunday November 23rd
10.30am
Live Stream out to churches without Mass
DONALD - Sunday November 23rd
10.30am - Live Stream in
ST.ARNAUD - Sunday November 23rd
8.30am - Mass
WYCHEPROOF - Saturday November 22nd
7.00pm - Mass
Parish Coordinator: Noeline Hogan 0476 617 976
ST. ARNAUD CHURCH OF CHRIST
Cnr Queens Ave & Alma St.
Celebrating faith in our Lord
Thu 20th November:
Faith Group in recess
Sun 23rd November:
10.30 a.m.: Worship & Communion
Speaker: Norma Hunt
Tues. 25th November: 4.00 p.m.: Discovery Club at Church. All welcome to the above occasions. Enquiries: Church 0494 391 466
November 19th
Rebecca Horsfall
Joe Secombe
Xander Morrow
November 20th
Julie Hunt
Anthony Rhoden
November 22nd
Melissa Esmore
Don Ferguson
November 23rd
Mahalia Martin
November 25th
Matthew Birthisel
Jamie Ferguson
Logan Hines
Hana Pickthall
Jody Reyne
Kerry Supple
Heather Stevenson and Andrea Tyler take a break during St Arnaud’s match with Wedderburn
Skippers Geoff Burnside (Wedderburn) and Paul Micallef (St Arnaud)
Tension was high for Robert Tonkin, Kerryn Dyke, Glendon Hancock, Alan Holt, Greg McNally, and Rob Guelfo as their skippers prepared to send down final shots of the end
Steve Zsigmond had his St Arnaud rink ahead on the 15th end of Saturday’s North Central bowls clash with Wedderburn
Charlton’s Elisa Fitzpatrick was part of her side’s upset victory over Kara Kara
Kara Kara’s Duncan Jackson returns serve at Charlton Park on Saturday
Charlton’s Rhys Gahn, 13, in action against Donald
Blues in shock boilover
THERE was a mix of fortunes for St Arnaud’s tennis sides in Round 6 of the North Central Lawn Tennis Association.
Charlton caused the upset of the weekend while St Arnaud claimed a strong away victory. In one of the surprises of the season, Charlton toppled ladder leader Kara Kara, recording a 125–103 (10–0 points) win on its home courts.
Charlton swept all three sections—Men’s, Ladies and Mixed Doubles. Despite the dominant points tally, the match was far closer than the final score suggested.
Missing a couple of senior Men’s players, Kara Kara fell just one game short in the Men’s Doubles (38–39 games), while Millie Hando was a standout in the Ladies section with two set wins in a 32–42 overall loss. The only triple-set winner for Kara Kara was Ben Greenaway.
Further north at Wycheproof, St Arnaud produced a commanding performance, overcoming the ever-welcoming hosts 127–69 (8–2 points). Wycheproof claimed the Ladies Doubles (44–31 games), but St Arnaud’s Men’s pairings set up the day with a devastating 48–8 games result that created a match-winning buffer.
A solid win in the Mixed Doubles sealed the comprehensive victory.
Three-set winners for St Arnaud were Callum Goode, Matthew Goode, Sam Male, Jason Rowe and Ben Batters.
LADDER
Youngsters are rolling up
ST ARNAUD Secondary College has hosted the North Central Division Lawn Bowls event.
Students representing the college were Forbes Kirk, Finn Green, Henry Small, Ollie Hand, Jack Batters, Rylan Leach, Mahlie Morris, Lucy O’Donnell and Tahyah Reyne.
Five schools participated in the competition - St Arnaud, Boort, Wycheproof, Maryborough and Donald. Teams competed in triples using a round-robin format,
vying for both the overall school championship and the winning triple title.
The competition was extremely close, with only a few points separating the top teams. Maryborough, newcomers to the event, claimed first place with 19 points, narrowly defeating last year’s premiers Donald who finished on 15 points. St Arnaud and Boort tied for third place with 10 points, while Wycheproof placed fifth on eight points.
ST ARNAUD Bowling Club Midweek Tournament last Thursday attracted a strong field from across the region, helped along by warm sunshine and only a late-afternoon rise in wind.
A colourful display of club uniforms lined the rinks, with teams attending from Bendigo/ White Hills, Avoca, Stawell Golf, Wedderburn (2), St Arnaud Country Club (2), Donald Golf (2), Boort (2), Donald, Wycheproof and St Arnaud.
Players and visitors enjoyed a well-received lunch prepared by members of the St Arnaud Club, with the variety of salads drawing many compliments.
CLEVERLY named gelding Tap To Pay notched up the third win of his career with a strong performance at Echuca last week.
The rising four-year-old, trained at Charlton by Zac Steenhuis, is out of outstanding broodmare Ay Tee Em, whose own career included 13 wins, highlighted by the 2008 Listed Sapling Stakes for two-year-old fillies.
Ay Tee Em has proven equally valuable in the breeding barn, producing eight foals to race for seven individual winners, who between them have amassed 67 wins.
Bred by P and B Salathiel, Tap To Pay is raced by an extensive ownership group: Z Steenhuis, L Holmes-Brown, K Jones, P Boyles, M Hamley, R Cossar, T Heenan, P Sanderson, The Firm Group and The Roughies Group. He was driven to victory by Ryan Sanderson. After a challenging 12 months, Dangerous returned to the winner’s list with a decisive victory in the FFA at Melton on Saturday night. It was the five-year-old’s first success since claiming an Interdominion heat at Menangle in last December.
Raced by Paul and Danny Lowry, Leon Hogan, John Wilson, Rob Hodge and Max Dillon, Dangerous has now won 11 races and earned more than $250,000. Driven by Abby Sanderson, he led throughout from the inside draw, clocking a career-best rate of 1:51.2 over 1720 metres.
The McNaulty stable’s promising three-year-old Zenario secured a place in next weekend’s Vicbred final, finishing fifth in its semi-final on Saturday. With the favourite—driven by J. Herbertson—leading from the pole and controlling the tempo early, the race evolved into a fast sit-and-sprint, with 11 of the 12 runners breaking 56 seconds for their last 800 metres. Racing continues tonight at Bendigo, followed by a Horsham meeting next Monday, leading into the Stawell Cup on the 30th.
Top honours for the day went to St Arnaud Country Club’s team of Rhonda Pole (skip), Amanda Marland, Trish Goode and Faye Rodger, who finished with two wins and a draw.
Runners-up were Donald Golf’s side skipped by Robert Reseigh, with Brenda Dixon, Brian Bayles and Debbie Adams. The highest winning score of the final game was recorded by Lindy Morgan’s Donald team.
Four sides finished as twogame winners on the dayAmy Roberts (Wedderburn), Peter Raynes (Donald Golf), Lindy Morgan (Donald), Heather Esmore (St Arnaud Country).
GAMES tended to start off close last week at Bealiba indoor bowls. Margins later blew out in the game, one team managed to score seven out of a possible eight on one end but another game ended in a fitting draw.
Winners on the night were Malcolm Campbell and Chris Evans with three wins followed by the team of Lyle Streeter, Tiger Coburn and Shirley Coburn with one win and a draw.
With two weeks of bowling left for the year, things are hotting up on the points table with three or four bowlers in contention for first place.
The annual general meeting will be held tomorrow night and the last week of bowling will be on November 27 and our Christmas party will be December 4.
Charlton’s Abby Thompson serves it up to Kara Kara in the Blues’ shock win on Saturday. NCN PHOTO
Morgan wipes out Blues’ tail
AN emphatic 84-run victory in in Saturday’s Wimmera Mallee cricket will long be remembered by St Arnaud debutante Morgan Greenaway.
His 6/18 meant the Saints were emphatic in defeating Charlton at Charlton Park.
The Saints won the toss and elected to bat, beginning their innings with discipline and composure. Bradley Williams (22 from 79 balls) provided the early backbone, and Kynan Torney complemented him strongly, helping set the tone with calm, steady batting before falling for 11.
Their patience blunted the new-ball threat and allowed the innings to settle. Contributions from Lachlan Patching (18), Jacob Patching (10) and Ned Gorrie (11) maintained stability through the middle overs. The innings closed with real momentum as Sam Penfold and Michael Stones combined in a composed, intelligent partnership, featuring smart and energetic running between wickets that placed the Charlton fielders under constant pressure and pushed St Arnaud to 6/141.
Charlton’s chase suffered immediate setbacks thanks to the Patching brothers’ disciplined new-ball assault. Jacob Patching was clinical, taking 3/10 from eight overs — including four maidens — and removing both openers with precision.
Alongside him, Lachlan Patching landed the most significant early blow when he dismissed Charlton’s key batter, Billy Sexton, a moment that further tilted the contest in St Arnaud’s favour. His 1/8 from five overs added vital pressure.
From there, the match turned completely following the introduction of Morgan Greenaway. On debut and showing maturity well beyond his years, he bowled with outstanding control, generating movement through the air and maintaining relentless accuracy. His spell quickly became the talking point of the day: teammates erupted with every breakthrough, spectators gathered in mounting excitement, and Charl-
(21.4)
ton’s batters were left stunned as wickets tumbled at rapid pace. Greenaway finished with extraordinary figures of 6/18 from 5.4 overs, tearing through the middle and lower order and sealing Charlton’s innings at 57. Only Leigh Van Boven (18) mounted any real resistance.
While the Saints’ performance featured valuable contributions across the XI, this match will be remembered above all for Morgan Greenaway’s unforgettable debut — a spell of rare quality that thrilled his team, energised supporters, and left opponents with no answers.
Marnoo reinforced their status as the competition’s leading premiership contender on Saturday, producing a composed and clinical performance to defeat the Southern Mallee Giants by six wickets at Hopetoun Recreation Reserve.
The result keeps Marnoo undefeated on top of the ladder with 14 points, further tightening their grip on first place, while the Giants remain close behind on 12.
After being sent in, the Giants were immediately pressured by a disciplined Marnoo bowling group. Benjamin Newton set the tone with two early wickets, removing both openers to leave the home side wobbling at 2/5.
Jack McAllister then took control through the middle overs, returning an exceptional 3/17 from eight overs in a spell that rarely offered a scoring opportunity.
David Lang completed the damage with a devastating burst of 3/3 from four overs, exploiting the conditions superbly.
Supported by the economy of Darcy Cameron (0/3 off 4) and sharp fielding around the ground, the Giants were restricted to just 69 from 31.3 overs.
In reply, Marnoo’s chase reflected the calmness and depth expected of a side shaping as the most serious premiership threat in this year’s competition. Jimmy Duxson made a brisk start before falling for 13, but it was Brylie Cameron who took command.
His authoritative 35 from 39
balls — featuring six boundaries and a six — ensured Marnoo were always ahead of the rate and well in control.
The Giants briefly rallied through Jackson Moore’s threewicket spell, but at 4/54, Marnoo’s depth came to the fore once more. New signing Daniel Schaper, who will play out the season with Marnoo, guided the chase with a steady unbeaten 8. His addition rounds out a batting lineup that is not only balanced but capable of producing a big total very quickly when conditions suit. McAllister finished the job with a swift 6 from just two balls, sealing the win at 4/70 in 14.1 overs.
With another comprehensive display across all phases, Marnoo continue to set the benchmark in the Wimmera-Mallee competition — disciplined with the ball, sharp in the field.
(2wd,
overs)
Fall of wickets: 1-1 William Marks. Bowling – Connor Boyle 3.2-0-21-1, Ty Colbert 2-0-21-0, Fill-in 1-0-6-0. Birchip won by 9 wickets Southern Mallee 10/69 (31.3) lost to Marnoo 4/70 (14.1) Southern Mallee
L Hateley c D Lang b Jack McAllister 7 P Hallam c Jimmy Duxson b B Newton 0 Jack Flavel c Nic Baird b B Newton 0 Jayson Kiem c&b Jack McAllister 6 Kybe Bellinger b David Lang 6 Daven Pulham lbw Jack McAllister 5 Clinton Castleman not out 21 Jackson Moore b David
Charlton’s Angus Soulsby finished with two wickets for the day. NCN PHOTO
Kynan Torney helped St Arnaud to a good start at Charlton Park. NCN PHOTO
Leigh Van Boven (Charlton)
Zsigmond four draws crowd in gripping end
ROUND six of North Central Pennant bowls delivered strong results for Wedderburn, with both Division One and Division Two teams recording victories over St Arnaud.
The double win places both Wedderburn sides on top of their respective ladders.
Country Club also boosted their finals prospects, securing important wins over Wycheproof in both divisions to move to fifth position, just outside the top four.
Charlton broke through for their first Division One win of the season, defeating Donald. In Division One, Wedderburn asserted control early, leading St Arnaud by seven shots after just five ends and maintaining command for the remainder of the match.
The quick Wedderburn green proved challenging for the visiting Saints, who struggled to adapt.
The highlight for St Arnaud was a gripping one-shot win by Steve Zsigmond, Glendon Hancock, Greg McNally and Kerryn Dyke over Allan Jackson’s four. Their rink continued long after the others had finished, drawing a crowd as the result remained uncertain until the final bowl.
Another close battle saw Ashley Dyke, Phil McRae, Col Marchment and Darren Shepherd locked at 14 all with Neil Holt’s team after 17 ends. But Wedderburn surged home, scoring 15 shots — including a five and a six — to seal a comfortable victory.
In the remaining rink, Terry McSwain, Allan Welsh, Maurie Wood and Tony Marland never recovered from an early 8–0 def-
icit, outplayed by Laurie Witham’s four across the day.
Despite St Arnaud winning two of the three rinks, Wedderburn secured overall victory thanks to a sizeable winning margin on the third and the Division Two results by seven shots.
Laurie Goodwin, Gerald McIntyre, Andrea Tyler and Heather Stevenson trailed by one against J. Grant before finishing strongly over the final five ends to claim an important win.
Paul Micallef, John Prendergast, Marg McRae and Peter Duncan also rallied late, coming from behind G. Burnside and pinching the lead with a crucial five on the 18th end.
St Arnaud dominated the remaining rink, with L. Standfield’s four controlling the game from the outset against Lloyd Goddard, Colin Coates, Diane Ostarcevic and Jason Barron, who managed to win only eight ends for the match.
This Saturday: St Arnaud v Charlton, Country Club v Donald Golf, Donald v Wycheproof, Boort v Wedderburn.
Last Thursday proved a busy one for the St Arnaud Bowling Club, with the annual November Tournament finishing around 5pm before the Twilight Bowlers took to the green from 6.30pm. Although numbers were slightly down, six teams enjoyed ideal evening conditions though some participants were handed light-hearted fines for various “misdemeanours,” adding to the night’s entertainment.
Sandra McIntyre, Clive Hancock and Gerald McIntyre finished seven shots up after winning nine of the 12 ends played. Terry McSwain and Craig Cheesman were runnersup, finishing five shots clear. The club will host three more Twilight Evenings before the Christmas break.
NORTH CENTRAL PENNANT RESULTS
Division 1 Wycheproof 66-2 lost to St Arnaud Country 68-10. A. Jones, J. McLean, J. McKay, J. Grylls (s) d D. Moulday, R. Pole, M. Esmore, T. McDonald (s) 25-16. R. Grylls, G. Coatsworth, P. Wellington, D. Groves (s) lost to T. Coloe, K. Pole, J. Abbott, W. Rodger (s) 21-26. S. Wellington, V. Grant, M. Nicholls, E. Rayes (s) lost to S. Atkinson, A. Marland, J. Nevill, D. Mullins (s) 20-26.
Donald Golf 81-11 d Boort 54-1. A. Humphrey, R. Adams, R. Reseigh, G. Rigby (s) d K. Birt, D. Gibson, C. Newsome, S. Morris (s) 27-13. W. Livingston, B. Murray, S. Hollis, P. Hibberd (s) d K. Walton, G. Hudson, W. Keenan, K. Depiazza (s) 30-17. L. Kelly, A. Dionisopoulos, D. Peake, D. Pettifer (s) drew G. Carrall, J. Gibson, T. Moresi, K. Ritchie (s) 24-24. Charlton 99-12 d Donald 51-0. M. Hamley, D. Gretgrix, D. McCallum, S. Perry (s) d W. Hegarty, N. Barber, I. McEwen, N. Hollis (s) 42-19. P. Watts, J. Cox, L. Southwell, K. Willey (s) d M. Quick, M. Harris, B. Milne, L. Morgan (s) 33-17. S. Harper, M. O’Brien, D. Finlay, W. Southwell (s) d W. Meyer, M. Kelly, D. Romeo, H. Wingfield (s) 24-15. Wedderburn 84-10 d St Arnaud 58-2. D. Stephenson, L. Holt, A. Caserta, L. Witham (s) d T. Marland, M. Wood, A. Welsh, T. McSwain (s) 33-18. R. Tonkin, R. Guelfo, A. Holt, A. Jackson (s) lost to K. Dyke, G. McNally, G. Hancock, S. Zsigmond (s) 22-23. A. Roberts, S. Steel, B. Montebello, N. Holt (s) d D. Shepherd, C. Marchment, P. McRae, A. Dyke (s) 29-17. Ladder: Wedderburn 56, Donald Golf 53, St Arnaud 46, Wycheproof 42, St Arnaud Country 38, Donald 25, Boort 16, Charlton 12. Division 2 Wycheproof 71-2 lost to St Arnaud Country 87-10. A. Coatsworth, S. McKenna, J. Ritchie, S. Barratt (s) lost to G. Watts, D. McAllister, P. Marland, D. Goode (s) 17-31. T. Sheppard, A. Grylls, L. Milburn, H. Grylls (s) lost to F. Rodger, L. Lynch, N. Robinson, C. Webb (s) 25-29. J. Howell, R. Coles, C. Jones, D. Denney (s) d P. Jorgensen, G. White, P. Mullins, G. Shaw (s) 29-27.
Donald Golf 71-10 d Boort 65-2. W. Nelson, J. Slater, G. Stopps, G. Wood (s) d L. Cameron, S. Polack, Y. Cashen, A. Matley (s) 23-20. M. Frank, B. Brasier, P. Raynes, S. O’Shea (s) lost to C. Wood, A. Gould, P. Waters, J. Earl (s) 11-27. C. Stopps, M. Raynes, B. Bayles, L. Borden (s) d I. Allison, S. Rollinson, J. Hampson, G. Smith (s) 37-18. Charlton 59-2 lost to Donald 95-10. J. Ong, Z. Irwin, B. Laffin, E. Rosewall (s) d K. Wyllie, P. Wyllie, substitute, E. Adams (s) 40-16. R. Gahan, G. Thomson, B. Bailey, J. Headon (s) lost to A. McEwen, J. Subprom, M. McEwen, J. Howley (s) 10-44. J. McGrath, -, G. Barnard, G. Bateson (s) lost to C. Perry, M. Hollis, substitute, R. Gravestocks (s) 9-35.
Wedderburn 68-8 d St Arnaud 61-4. J. Murnane, R. Hall, A. Noordennen, G. Burnside (s) lost to P. Duncan, M. McRae, J. Prendegast, P. Micallef (s) 19-22. R. Ashley, A. Benaim, N. White, J. Grant (s) lost to H. Stevenson, A. Tyler, G. McIntyre, L. Goodwin (s) 2029. H. Stephenson, M. Guelfo, C. Mills, L. Standfield (s) d J. Barron, D. Ostarcevic, C. Coates, L. Goddard (s) 29-10.
Ladder: Wedderburn 52, Wycheproof 48, Donald Golf 44, St Arnaud 44, St Arnaud Country 38, Boort 33, Donald 23, Charlton 6.
Midweek - Charlton 69-12 d Wedderburn 55-0. J. McGrath, J. Cox, D. McCallum, L. Southwell (s) d H. Stephenson, L. Standfield, S. Steel, A. Jackson (s) 2417. E. Rosewall, D. Gretgrix, J. Headon, K. Willey (s) d L. Don, S. Standfield, J. Murnane, A. Roberts (s) 2219. G. Bateson, W. Laffin, M. Hamley, K. North (s) d R. Little, J. Matthews, R. Hall, J. Grant (s) 23-19.
St Arnaud 73-4 lost to Donald 81-8. H. Stevenson, M. McIntyre, S. McIntyre, L. Goodwin (s) lost to A. McEwen, M. McEwen, K. Adamson, L. Morgan (s) 14-40. A. Tyler, T. McSwain, M. Hufer, P. McRae (s) d K. Wyllie, J. Wood, E. Adams, B. Milne (s) 27-20. A. McNally, M. McRae, P. Micallef, D. Goddard (s) d J. Subprom, P. Wyllie, M. Kelly, M. Quick (s) 32-21.
Boort 67-2 lost to Wycheproof 74-10. G. Charles, Y. Cashen, P. Baker, T. Moresi (s) lost to C. Jones, D. Nicholls, H. Grylls, J. Grylls (s) 23-24. S. Polack, T. Noles, D. Gibson, J. Gibson (s) d A. Coatsworth, S. McKenna, L. Milburn, D. Groves (s) 28-27. L. Newsome, G.
St Arnaud Country returned with the points in both divisions.
St Arnaud Country travelled to Wycheproof. It was a good day for a game of bowls as there wasn’t all that much wind about but still enough to affect your bowls a little. It was a close battle from all players in both divisions going to the lunch break. It was a close game in the afternoon the vibe of the game was starting to swing in favor of the St Arnaud Country Club across both divisions where eventually they ended up getting the upper hand over Wycheproof.
Tweddle, J. Earl, W. Keenan (s) lost to L. Nicholls, V. Grant, A. Jones, M. Nicholls (s) 16-23.
Donald Golf 87-11 d St Arnaud Country 52-1. S. Evans, L. Kelly, J. Hollis, S. Hollis (s) d Y. Templar, S. Wright, F. Rodger, R. Pole (s) 36-13. C. Stopps, G. Wood, M. Frank, S. O’Shea (s) drew L. Abbott, P. Goode, C. Bond, H. Esmore (s) 24-24. D. Adams, S. Donnellon, B. Dixon, P. Hibberd (s) d D. Fullarton, G. Fullarton, L. Moulday, A. Marland (s) 27-15.
Eily Rosewall skips her Charlton rink to a 24-shot victory over Donald. NCN PHOTO
sport
Wednesday NOVEMBER 19, 2025
TEENAGER SNARES 6/18 ON SENIOR DEBUT
MORGAN MAGIC
IN A SENIOR debut for the ages, 13-year-old Morgan Greenaway took a stunning 6/18 to lead St Arnaud to an emphatic 84-run win over Charlton in Wimmera-Mallee cricket.
Chasing the Saints’ 6/141, Charlton was all out on its home deck for just 57 as Greenaway took the last six wickets to fall at Charlton Park on Saturday.
Already struggling at 4/14, calamity followed for the Navy Blues with the introduction of Greenaway.
In just 5.4 overs, he tore through the middle and lower order, bowling with admirable control and accuracy.
Four of Greenaway’s victims were clean bowled (one for a first-ball duck) and another was adjudged LBW.
The Royal Blues are yet to register a win this season, while the Saints’ first victory has them in fourth place on the ladder.
FULL STORY - PAGE 18
Coach’s excitement for reconnection
STAR signing Joe Maishman will bring experience and knowledge to share with St Arnaud’s youngern brigade, said co-coach Harley Durward.
Durwood says the recruiting of Maishman, as excluisively reported in last week’s NCN Herald, would be invaluable in raising the stocks of the North Central Football League club.
“We’re extremely excited to welcome Joe into our program,” said Durward who takes the helm in 2026 with Darby Schilder, a teammate of Maishman’s at
club Werribee in 2017. That connection helped bring Maishman to Lord Nelson Park where his brother Nick has played for the last two seasons.
Saints president Bruce Hando emphasised the importance of adding both the player and the person.
“This time of year is always exciting as we welcome new talent into our football program, but securing a player of Joe’s calibre is something special,” he said.
“Most importantly, he is a top-quality person, and we’re thrilled to bring someone of his character into our Saints family.”
Maishman, who played almost 100 games with Werribee, will join the Saints as a key player and as midfield coach. He began his football with Geelong district powerhouse St Mary’s, then graduated to the elite Under-18 program with the Geelong Falcons, where he spent two seasons.
Maishman represented Vic Country in the national Under-18 championships during his time with the Falcons and was seen as a possible AFL draftee. In 2015 Maishman joined Werribee, where he would remain for seven seasons, playing a variety of roles.
VFL
Co-coach Darby Schilder with Joe Maishman
Star debutante ... Morgan Greenaway after his stunning six-wicket haul with victorious St Arnaud team mates