Wednesday, October 1,
SHOW KICKS
OFF OUR BIG
OCTOBER-FEST
On Monday, Jess Maffescioni was in her kitchen mixing ingredients to bake up batches of entries for the show’s pavilion sections.
ICING ON THE CAKE
ST ARNAUD is in for a whirlwind of a month, starting with its coveted Agricultural Show this weekend.
Seasoned baker and show competitor Jess Maffesconi was preparing herself for a week of baking when the NCN Herald caught up with her on Monday.
She’s heading to the St Arnaud Show baking competition with five years’ experience (and then some) under her belt - thanks to her mum.
“I’m from Stawell originally and have been competing there for as long as I can remember,” Jess said. “I have been winning the cookery aggregate there every year since 2016.
“My mum has been part of the show society there, so to say I love it is an understatement.”
Part of the St Arnaud Show Society herself, Jess said it was important for young people to support events such as these. Jess said she had “cut back” her entries for
this year, but her jam-packed week wouldn’t allow for a lot of sleep until she sees her goods set up in the show shed on Saturday.
Northern Grampians Shire Mayor Karen Hyslop said she was excited to see the community come to life with all the events coming up this month.
Also taking top billing this month will be the St Arnaud Cup and a weekend celebration for 150 years of brass band music in the town while Charlton has its show and other events on this calendar in October.
A FIRE burnt almost four hectares of grassland along the Avoca River as afternoon winds whipped the district on Friday.
Fire crews were called to a grass fire on Low Water Bridge Road in Slaty Creek about 2.15pm.
At least 13 local crews attended the scene north-east of St Arnaud.
A CFA spokesperson said the fire burned along both sides of the river and was brought under control at 4.20pm.
They said the scene was handed over to Forest Fire Management Victoria and was deemed safe about 6pm on Friday.
Friday’s fire came as authorities issued holiday weekend pleas on fire safety. They said anyone planning to camp over the warmer months was encouraged to familiarise themselves with the proper and safe ways to put out a campfire.
Many people try to put out campfires incorrectly with soil, or not enough water to extinguish them completely. Fires that haven’t been properly extinguished can smoulder under soil for days and reignite in the right conditions.
FFMV is investigating the cause of Friday’s fire.
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
16-18
New leaders take over Men’s Shed
MEN’S Shed St Arnaud has seen a few changes at its helm following it’s annual meeting recently.
At the AGM, Greg Fullerton took on the presidential role along with Michael Searle as secretary/treasurer and Robert Lock as vice president.
Outgoing president Hugh Craddock was forced to step down from the top job due to ill health.
The Men’s Shed St Arnaud thanked Hugh for his leadership
and support given to the group over the years.
Greg said upon taking on the new role, he is keen to hear from men either in or transitioning into retirement to make contact with him or the group.
He said they would have the chance to come along and experience first-hand life within the shed and amongst the members themselves.
Anyone interested is also wel-
come to visit the shed during its operational hours of Tuesday and Thursdays between 8.30am and 4pm.
You can find the shed at 34 Alma Street, St Arnaud (behind the Neighbourhood House).
Potential members are also encouraged to contact the group by phone on 0427 952 598 for more information or to join.
Celebrate child’s play
FAMILIES can participate in a range of free activities in St Arnaud this month as part of national Children’s Week celebrations. The week runs from October 18 to 26 and celebrates the talents, skills, achievements and rights of children. On the Wednesday, St Arnaud will host a multicultural adventure, with activities at the Town Hall from 10.30am to noon. On Thursday, the library will host a special puppet story time session from 10.30am. The theme will be “Celebration of Difference”.
All rosie at the movies
OLIVIA Colman and Benedict Cumberbatch star in this weekend’s Rex Theatre Charlton movie “The Roses” - a dark comedy based on the reimagining of the 1989 classic film “The War of the Roses”. The film screens this Saturday at 8pm and Sunday at 8pm.
VicRoads to remain
RIPON MP Martha Haylett took to social media on Monday night to confirm Maryborough’s VicRoads office was “here to stay”. “Negotiations are underway between VicRoads and the Central Goldfields Shire Council to make sure taxpayers money is being well spent,” she said. “It is my hope that the current arrangement can be continued. If it can’t, another suitable venue will be found.”
THIS WEEKEND
TIME TABLE OF EVENTS
9am: Shearing
9am: Show Jumping
10am: Horse Ring Events
10am: Pavilion Open
10am: Markets / Stalls
10/11am: Rides Begining
Rides Beginning
1pm: Official Opening
1-4pm: Stage Coach Rides
1.30pm: Tiny Tots / Ambassador Judging 1.30/2.00pm: Pipe & Brass Bands
Men’s Shed St Arnaud have welcomed Michael Searle (Secretary/Treasurer), Greg Fullerton (President) and Robert Lock (Vice President)
CFA says brigade will have to wait for new station
There’s land but no money to build
By ALEX GRETGRIX
AFTER years of being told they’re a priority, the Charlton CFA is still waiting for a new fire station.
One that will be big enough to house vital equipment - like their 2020 Iveco Eurocargo Tanker
And it seems that wait won’t be over any time soon.
A CFA spokesperson said while they were high up on the list, the wait for a new home had “no timeline”.
“CFA endeavours to upgrade and replace stations across the state in an equitable manner to support volunteer brigades and the communities they serve,” they said in a statement.
“The Charlton Fire Station is a priority for replacement, and the acquisition of land in late 2022 marks a significant step forward.
“However, construction of this project is not currently funded and has no timeframe for funding.”
While the CFA spokesperson said the Charlton Fire Station was “included in its overall infrastructure funding submission for the 2025/26 cycle”, ultimately it wasn’t up to them.
“CFA continues to work closely with CFA Districts and Regions to identify priority stations for investment,” they said.
“Final budget considerations are a matter for the Government.”
They weren’t the only ones to hit out at the government.
After initially showing her support for the cause back in November 2024, Mildura MP Jade Benham said the Charlton CFA situation is “absolutely appalling”.
“The current station was fine in the 1930’s, but times have changed, community needs have changed,” she said.
“It proves once again that Labor can’t manage our emergency services, their fleet or infrastructure.
“If the Allan Labor Government is going to continue to use regional Victoria as a cash cow with their emergency services tax, and bulldoze their way through with poles and wires, surely they need to at least invest in the bare minimum.”
The state government’s controversial Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) passed the upper house back in May.
The new tax would be charged alongside council rates and replaces the cheaper fire services levy. It will raise funds for fire services, the State Emergency Service, triple-0 and the state control centre.
All landholders in Victoria
would pay more for the ESVF, but farmers in particular are facing increases of tens of thousands of dollars.
This triggered a number of protests across the state and raging backlash from locals.
An estimated 1000 volunteers and supporters rallied against the tax in Bendigo back in September and later drove a convoy of fire trucks and tractors through the centre of the the city.
CFA members from St Arnaud Group were among a strong district contingent and included Charlton brigade captain Craig Walsh.
Ms Benham said she will continue to advocate for the brigade.
“I have met with the brigade and their CFA captain on a number of occasions and will continue to fight for our fair share,” she said.
Ms Benham said with the looming warmer months, this upgrade was dire.
“In our hot, dry summers, brigades simply don’t have time to waste,” she said.
“Every minute counts when lives and homes are on the line.”
Long awaited works
THE Mechanics Institute is finally getting a face lift with the Inkerman Street structure soon getting a new verandah.
The committee said they worked through financial challenges, difficulty securing a builder and extreme detetioration since before the COVID pandemic, but they’re excited to see it coming together.
BM Build workers were seen securing the tin last week.
Funds came from Bendigo Bank and Northern Grampians Shire Council.
Next on the committee’s agenda is the library’s new verandah.
Esmores notch up 50 years of serving friends
By ALEX GRETGRIX
ALAN and Heather Esmore say they feel every person who pumps fuel at the Apex Service Station in St Arnaud is a friend.
Whether they meet them on their worst day through their RACV assistance service or just a chat paying for their tank, they hear every single story.
And they’ve done so for 50 years now.
The family celebrated half a decade at the bowser and mechanics shop last week.
They purchased the business from Ern Wescott on September 24, 1975 and Alan says they wouldn’t have it any other way.
“I’ve been a mechanic for 67 years, starting his apprenticeship in 1958 and qualifying as an “A” Grade Mechanic in 1964,” he said.
“My father was a mechanic too and my love for that work started when he said if I learned to fix this motorbike he had, I could keep it.
“I still have that bike sitting out the back.”
Like father, like son, Mark has been a mechanic now for 40 years starting his apprenticeship in 1985, completing it to “A” grade level like Alan.
They’ve seen a lot of changes over the years, including a bit of a reno or two.
“In 1977, we started major renovations on the building, demolishing a good majority of it,” Alan said.
“The front wall was moved back, to create a second driveway, after losing the far one due to the roundabout construction. The back wall of the workshop was also pushed out further creating a bigger area to work.
“The whole rebuild took seven weeks, including some very late nights, and in some cases all nighters, to get the job done.”
While most would move to retirement, the family has its sights on a new build the building of our new premises on the site of John McVitty’s old workshop in McMahon Street.
Heather and Alan Esmore have owned the service station and mechanics on Silvermines Road for 50 years. NCN PHOTO
Alan, Health, Lisa and Mark Esmore. NCN PHOTO
The Mechanics Institute St Arnaud Inc. will finally have a new verandah. NCN PHOTO
Northern Grampians Shire Council
COMMUNITY UPDATES
HELP SHAPE NEW RECYCLING PROGRAM
Council is reviewing our waste and recycling services across the shire in accordance with the State Government's Circular Economy (Waste Reduction and Recycling) Act 2021. Under the Act, council is required to introduce new recycling services for glass recycling and food and garden organics (FOGO) recycling. To help determine the wants and needs of our community in this space, we have launched an anonymous Kerbside Waste and Recycling Survey. You can access the survey, which closes at 11.59pm on October 15, 2025, via the QR code at the top of this page.
MULTICULTURAL PLAN OPEN FOR COMMENT
To celebrate our shire’s diversity and ensure everyone feels included and valued, council has developed the 2025-28 Multicultural Action Plan. Council is inviting community feedback on the draft plan, until Sunday, October 12. You can scan the QR code above for a copy of the draft plan and to provide feedback.
Council will improve safety at high-use intersections throughout the shire thanks to $2 million in State Government funding. The $210-million Safe Local Roads and Streets Program supports the development and delivery of road safety infrastructure projects on high-risk local roads, intersections, and precincts, such as schools. Work to raise the intersection at Millett Street and Kings Avenue in St Arnaud is expected to start later this year. Several intersections in Stawell are also included in the program. Works are due to be completed by May 2026.
CELEBRATION FOR GRANT RECIPIENTS
Council will host a Community Celebration – Local Ideas, Lasting Impact event at Lord Nelson Park on Tuesday, October 7. The event, from 6pm to 7.30pm, will celebrate the success of projects delivered with support from the council’s various grant and sponsorship streams. You can RSVP via the QR code above by this Friday.
Maintenance employee/plant operator: Council is seeking a motivated, hands-on maintenance employee/plant operator to join the St Arnaud team and help shape the spaces and places that locals love and visitors remember. This is a permanent, full-time position with a raft of benefits. You can visit https://www.ngshire.vic.gov.au/Careers/Current-vacancies for more information, including how to apply by Sunday, October 5.
Next council meeting: Monday, October 6 in the Perry Room, St Arnaud Town Hall, St Arnaud, at 12.30pm. The meeting is open to the public and will be livestreamed via our YouTube channel. The agenda will be available on our website.
Workers get digs to live, stay local
A NEW housing project will help attract and keep workers in St Arnaud to support local industries.
Ballarat-based organisation
Elmstone Property Group is set to construct an eight-unit housing complex on Grey Street.
Group director Stuart Benjamin said this housing will work to help regional suppliers deliver solutions to worker housing shortages.
““I was driving into town today and was trying to look up how many properties were available for rent in St Arnaud,” Mr Benjamin said.
“There’s actually none.
“It’s projects like these that will help bring more people to town and help support the business owners who may be struggling to get staff because of the lack of accommodation in town.”
The project will construct eight one-bedroom self-contained units with additional shared facilities.
The State Government’s support for the project is part of a $47 billion investment in just over a decade to drive economic growth and make Victoria’s regions even better places to live, work, stay, experience, invest and study.
“I remember when I first got into government in 2022 and visited St Arnaud for the first time, I was told then that the town needed more housing,” Ripon MP Martha Haylett said.
“This means local workers can live where they work and businesses can finally secure the staff they need.
“It will boost local economy and keep jobs and families in rural Victoria.”
Family fun front and centre on Youth Fest stage
ORGANISERS were thankful to be blessed with beautiful weather in Charlton last week for an evening of family fun.
Buloke Shire’s Youth Council aimed to put together an event with something for everyone at it’s Buloke Youth Fest Family Fun Day.
Charlton Park came to life with music and laughter as families full of members of all ages enjoyed the moments in the sun.
Youth council mayor Keely Allan said it was great to see the event come off.
“We were a bit worried when we looked at the weather earlier on in the day,” she said.
“But we’re so glad it all came together.
““It’s been great to have council come to us as young people and ask us for our thoughts, our help with what we want to see.
“Who better to work for the young people than the young people themselves?”
Ms Allan said the aim was to provide an outlet for the people who may not be as focused on physical activities as others.
“We can be very sport-orien-
tated in this region, but we know there are kids out there who aren’t interested in playing team sports on a Saturday,” she said.
“So events like these with creative activities like the pot decorating, and not forgetting the sporty people with balloon darts and things like that, we hope everyone will get involved and have a bit of fun.”
Small businesses run by young people were also encouraged to come along, providing a few sweet treats to buy, Health promotion was also in focus with a smoothie bike in action making healthy drinks.
The Charlton trotting track was lined with jumping castles, a blow-up obsticle course and lazer tag.
St Arnaud business leaders met with Stuart Benjamin from Elmstone Property Group and Ripon MP Martha Haylett on the site where new worker’s accommodation will be built. NCN PHOTO
Olive McGurk on the exercise bike, riding to make herself a smoothie. NCN PHOTOS
Lucas and Ivy Sexton decorating their pots before they plant a small herb or flower in them.
Millie and Ashlei Poiner Youth Council mayor Keely Allan
DUNLUCE FARM LEASE
LEASE BY TENDER TENDER FINISHES NOVEMBER 3RD AT 12PM
Lot 1 - as a whole 1253 hectares*
Lot 2 - Grants & Lane 767 hectares*
Lot 3 - Keoghs 128 hectares*
Lot 4 - Kellys 169 hectares*
Lot 5 - Males 189 hectares*
Highly productive cropping and grazing land. Natural water catchment across the allotments. Excellent fencing. Highly arable. Excellent fertiliser and soil ameliorant history. Lease commencing 15th March 2026.
CFA’s hay season warning
WITH hay season beginning in the west and north west parts of the state, farmers are being urged to take extra care in preventing haystack fires.
Between June 30, 2024, and July 1, 2025, CFA responded to 73 haystack and hay shed fires in regional areas, with 53 per cent occurring in the west and north-west of the state.
Haystack fires are often caused by spontaneous combustion when hay is baled with excess moisture.
High moisture levels, combined with the compact nature of hay bales, can create internal heat, leading to ignition.
David Manifold, Buloke West Group Officer, third lieutenant of Jeffcott Fire Brigade, and a local farmer said there were many factors which can lead to a haystack fire.
“What goes wrong is essentially hay is baled at a high moisture or what we have learned in recent times is leaving the hay out for longer to dry can actually increase the growth of yeast and moulds on the hay,” he said.
“The yeast and mould levels can get so high that any ingression of water is as good as throwing a match on it.”
Mr Manifold said he is utilising both new
Top sale ram heads to WA
WALLALOO Park Merino Stud’s annual on-property ram sale saw a top price of $14,500.
Highest price was paid by Lukin Springs Poll Merino and White Suffolk Studs, of Boyup Brook, Western Australia.
Last week’s sale at the Marnoo stud saw 200 rams offered with a high clearance of 185.
The sale average was $3635. Lukin Springs’ Paul Goerling later said of the top buy ram: “This is an outstanding sire. I believe sires like this are the future of the Merino industry with its phenotype and it’s balanced level of performance data.”
Agents for the Wallaloo Park auction were Elders and Nutrien.
PICTURED: The ram that fetched $14,500 last week.
and old technologies to reduce the risk of haystack fires at his farm.
“We are using new techniques on the machinery side to get our window shorter for bailing in sub seven days which is the key to keeping the yeasts and moulds lower,” he said.
“We run plastic over the flooring which stops moisture from coming up into the hay which
prevents damage to the hay but also prevents the risk of water ingression, particularly in heavy rainfall periods during summer.
“The spouts on the shed are well maintained, and the downpipes are key.
“Bunched up stacks are pretty volatile, keeping stacks well-ventilated is important.”
Mr Manifold said he also uses a new type of temperature probe that sends temperature data to a central bay station on the farm.
“I can check the temperature on an app on my phone at any given moment,” he said.
“I can also get it to send me alerts so I have it set to alert me if we reach 40 and 50 degrees.”
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan reinforced that early preparation and proper storage are essential in reducing the risk of haystack fires. “Make sure you store your hay in separate stacks or in sheds away from farm equipment and other buildings to prevent the spread of fire,” he said.
“Farmers need to ensure they’re well-prepared – regular monitoring can prevent a small issue from becoming a much larger one.”
For more information, visit CFA’s website or contact your local CFA brigade for advice.
Click go the shears at St Arnaud show
THE Sports Shearing and Wool Handling event is back again as part of the St. Arnaud Agricultural Show.
This year’s event will showcase some of the of the highest calibre shearers and wool handlers in the industry.
If you haven’t watched professional shearers and wool handlers in action before, or you want to see some polished shearing and-
wool handling skills, you’re encouraged to get along to the Pavilion and view some of the best in the business.
Unfortunately, the quick shear has been postponed, but organisers will “bring back the blades” with a blade shearing demonstration in the afternoon.
There will also be “shears and beers” with the St Arnaud Football Club running a bar from 3pm.
Organisers would like to extend a special thank you to all of their sponsors. Without their generous support, the St Arnaud Agricultural Society would not be able to make events like the St Arnaud Show and the shearing competition happen.
Shearing starts at 9am this Saturday in the Pavillion at the St Arnaud Show.
Renewable’s engagement expectations
DRAFT new guidelines for community consultation on renewable energy projects have been released by VicGrid.
But while the State Government authority is wanting feedback from communities on what it says are 48 “expectations on engagement and the sharing of benefits with locals”, VicGrid has left St Arnaud district residents out of the its awareness phase on proposals.
VicGrid says its community engagement and social value guidelines will set new requirements for renewable project developers.
Newspapers in renewable energy zones and in the path of proposed transmission lines are this week carrying advertisements from VicGrid about the consultation process on the community engagement guidelines.
But not your local NCN Herald.
Ripon MP Martha Haylett said: “It is crucial that all impacted communities get a chance to have their say on proposed renewable energy projects. Companies have done consultation terribly to date and it must improve.”
“I’m disappointed to see our local newspaper in St Arnaud not receiving advertising about upcoming community consultation. I will raise this matter directly with VicGrid.”
According to VicGrid CEO Alistair Parker the guidelines are “about setting the standards of behaviour we want to see from solar, wind and battery developers in Victoria.”
“Developers who want to access the grid will need to show they are doing the right thing by regional communities and meeting government standards for community engagement and benefits,” he said.
VicGrid last week also released for community and industry feedback proposed new rules that will manage how renewable energy projects gain access to the state’s transmission network.
The AWEX Eastern Market Indicator surged 109 cents higher last week as the wool market’s momentum continued to build.
The EMI broke through the 1400-cent mark to close at 1453 cents, its highest point since June 2022.
The weekly rise was the largest in six years and extended the rally to 10 straight weeks, equalling the longest unbeaten run (weekly) since 1987.
National offerings remained steady with 29,773 bales put to auction. Prices lifted sharply from the opening lot on Tuesday and continued to climb as buyers chased quantity. By the close of the day, the market was generally 100 cents stronger than the previous week, driving the EMI 72 cents higher in its biggest single-day gain since January 2021.
Wednesday’s sale followed the same pattern, beginning firmly and strengthening further as the day wore on. By the end of trade it marked the 18th consecutive day of increases, with Merino fleece adding another 50 cents.
The results of the week now have Fine Merino types (19 microns and finer) sitting at twoyear highs, while broader Merinos are at 5-year highs.
Skirtings followed suit, lifting between 100 and 150 cents clean for the series.
Crossbreds also enjoyed a strong week, closing 60 to 80 cents higher across both days to reach five-year highs.
Merino Cardings were more subdued, edging 10 cents higher. Sellers were keen to meet the rally, pushing the clearance rate to its strongest level in seven years.
Looking ahead, offerings are forecast to lift to 35,260 bales across Sydney, Melbourne and Fremantle this week.
Glendon Hancock Glendon.Hancock@elders.com.au
Fires are caused by spontaneous combustion when hay is baled with excess moisture.
Shearers will show off their skills at the show
attitude 20Custom 21For fear that 22Traders
24Edicts
27Tibetan priest
29Contend in rivalry
30Produce
32Adverse criticism
34Snake
35Lyric poem
36Mountain lakes
37Honey drink
38Water pitchers
39Beverage 40Pays attention
DOWN
1Sacrificial table
2Conditional release
3Consider as affront 4Entered as an enemy 5Swift animal 6Sullenly illhumoured 7Mild explosions 11Copied 13Weaken 15Credited 16Longings 18Slow person 23Lower in dignity 25Means of entertainment 26Prophet 27Letting contracts 28Colouring matter 31Efface 32Young horse 33American state
Solution No. 8577
100 YEARS AGO
September 26 - 30
Local Poultry at Royal Show: Mr Edwin Davey met with gratifying success as an exhibitor of poultry at the Royal Show. He secured two firsts with Brahmas; one first with Old English game; and two thirds with Hondans. This is a most creditable performance, considering the class of birds exhibited at the show of shows. Mr Davey has been breeding and exhibiting birds at country shows for close upon 25 years, often making a clean sweep in whatever poultry he exhibited.
Strange But True: A remarkably strange and unheard-of incident occurred on the farm of Mr P. Rogan, Lake Marmal. During shearing operations, one of the shearers on commencing to shear, discovered a young possum firmly ensconced in the wool of a ewe. The little animal was very much alive and cosy. Strange as it may seem, the ewe was quite content and suckling the “Joey.”
Late Mr Michael O’Connor: Mr O’Connor, at the early age of four years, came to Australia from Limerick, Ireland. His parents went to Tasmania, and at the age of 21, he came to Victoria, and after spending four years in the Ballarat district, he selected 200 acres of land at Wooroonook. By perseverance and hard work, he had increased his holdings to such an extent that he was one of the largest landholders in the district. He was a fine type of man
Solution No: 8577
and up to the time of his last illness was always well and vigorous. The funeral cortege had over 90 cars as well as a large number of other vehicles. Mr O’Connor had been married for 48 years, and is survived by his wife and family of five sons and six daughters.
Charlton Progress Association: At the annual meeting the following were elected:- President, Mr S. G. Bennett, vice-presidents, Messrs C. J. Dew, J. Spain and F. Gilmore; secretary and treasurer, Rev. A. Day. A carnival is to be arranged, the proceeds from which are to go towards schemes for the beautification of the town. The bathing shed is to be moved to a more suitable position down the stream. The secretary is to procure information concerning the University Extension lectures and Conservatorium concerts. These lectures and concerts would be of great educational benefit to the community.
happy chatter, partook of the excellent supper. As usual the charming frocks of the ladies impressed the spectator. Some were: Miss Olive Lanyon – pale blue taffeta, trimmed with silver lace. Miss Molly Bourke –apricot georgette with russett trimmings. Miss Lucy fanning – strawberry satin with cream trimmings. Shire Notes: A petition from a number of Business people and residents against the closing of the road in front of the Mechanics’ Institute. The matter of the lights on the new bridge caused some discussion. It was carefully considered as to whether it was advisable or not to keep the four lamps burning all night. It was decided that Councillors could meet the ladies of the Croquet Club and the members of the Band Committee to consult about the Croquet Lawn and the Band Rotunda.
ACROSS 3Rabid 6Map 8Leave 9Nero 10Slave 12Rep 14Abode 17Pardons 19Relented 20Use 21Lest 22Dealers 24Decrees 27Lama 29Vie 30Generate 32Censure 34Adder 35Ode 36Tarns 37Mead 38Ewers 39Tea 40Heeds
100 YEARS AGO
September 18 - 30
Rain for September 193 points, making 1491 so far this year.
The annual wildflower show by the State and High Schools was held in the Town Hall and raised £138. The popular girl competition with the winner who raises the most money for their school was won by Maud Taylor [State School] £35/5/6 from Annie Punshon [High School] £16/19/0. Mrs Davis won a special prize for a harp made from cut wild flowers and in the children’s section first prizes to Harold Summerfield –bowl of cyclamens, Eva Williams –scones and Ena Dewhurst – Cornish pasties.
DOWN 1Altar 2Parole 3Resent 4Invaded 5Deer 6Morose 7Pops 11Aped 13Enervate 15Believed 16Desires 18Dullard 23Degrade 25Cinema 26Seer 27Leases 28Madder 31Erase 32Colt 33Utah
A Delightful Ball: The Church of England Ball, held in the Victoria Hall, was a marked success from every point of view. In the large number present there were noticeable many visitors from all parts of the district. There were over 150 people present. The Charlton Jazz Trio provided a splendid program. Seated at tables daintily decorated the guests, amid much laughter and
Cooper licensee has undergone extensive renovations. The original staircase has been removed from the main entrance to the centre of the building. Nineteen bedrooms have been updated as to size and ventilation and there are now three bathrooms with hot water. There is also a new brick servery between the kitchen and the dinning room, which can accommodate sixty people.
The Town Hall Hotel owned by
Alterations to the Travaglia Café
Buckrabanyule: A most enjoyable evening was spent when the friends of Miss Jessie Black entertained her at a kitchen tea in the Buckrabanyule Hall. She was the recipient of many useful and beautiful gifts. The prospective bridegroom, Mr Lang, on behalf of Miss Black, tendered thanks with a few wellchosen words. During the evening songs were rendered by Miss A. Paterson, Mr J. Crutch, Mr Pierce and a duet by Mr Wilson and Mr Benson. Dancing was carried on until the small hours of the morning.
included making the two shops into one with the floor laid out with Terrazzo polished marble finish on a concrete base. Electric light, an ice cream machine and soda fountain have been installed and fruit and vegetables will be sold on the other side.
The Girl Guides and the PWMU of Gre Gre North raised £100 for the Presbyterian Church by holding a bazaar where Mary, Melva and Ruth Jesse, Ida Coates and C McRae won several first prizes for cookery. Traynors Lagoon Rifle Club –seven shots at 500 and 600 yards won by J Raeburn and H Cunningham with 63 each followed by J Clarke with 62.
Bob blazes in brass
BOB Wooley may have moved around a lot - from Melbourne to England and back - but there’s one constant he’s always had.
A brass brand to play in.
In a music career that began in 1952 alongside his father, Bob was always drawn to a group of like-minded musicians.
“I was an active member of the Victoria Police Band as well as the 2/10 Medium Regiment Band, Royal Australian Artillery (Australian Army Reserve),” he said.
“When my wife and I made the move to St Arnaud in 1986, the first thing I looked for was a brass band to join.”
Bob had been a visitor to the town in the past and knew the lifestyle would suit him and the town had everything he needed.
“I knew I was about to be discharged from the Army Band and wouldn’t be able to take on any other paid work if I wanted to keep my pension,” he said.
“So volunteering was my only option to keep busy really, and band of course.”
Although the band was low in numbers when he joined, Bob knew it was a group he would grow to love.
He then became cemented in the band’s rich 150 year history when he was made the group’s band master in 1987.
“As the year drew to a close that year, it became clear our band master at the time was preparing to move on, so I applied,” he said.
“I was told at our band’s Christ-
By ALEX GRETGRIX
mas wind-up that I had been appointed.
“It was exciting news, but I was told my first official engagement in the job would be at the Australia Day flag raising on January 26 1988.”
Bob has remained in the top job since and has become the longest serving band master in the St Arnaud Citizen Band’s history.
But what keeps him involved?
“You find great companionship in groups like this,” Bob said.
“You go through a lot of ups and downs when you’re with a group for so long and I think most times that brings you closer together.”
Bob said this also meant he had seen a lot of change over the years at the helm.
“As the years progressed, advancing age has taken its inevitable toll, while younger band members have moved on to seek greener pastures in the cities,” he said.
“But it was around this time the band took a new direction, moving from the traditional brass band genre to take advantage of the modern music that was becoming more readily available.”
Bob said it was an honour to be a part of the band’s rich history.
“I have seen much sadness, joy, tears and laughter and I am extremely proud to be the leader of this wonderful group of musicians.”
Bob has also taken his volun-
teering in town very seriously by taking part in groups such as treasurer of the Uncle Bob’s club, a charity organisation raising funds for Good Friday Appeal.
He has also been an avid pool player in his time, promoting thelocal competition for many years.
“I offered to help out for a year and have been there ever since,” Bob said.
“That was in 1988 at the Wool
Pack pub.” Bob also give a lot of his time to helping those who may not be able to cook or buy food for themselves through Meals on Wheels.
He was also an umpire for the North Central Football League for a number of years.
The St Arnaud Citizen Band will celebrate its 150 years on October 18 at the Town Hall. Donations are welcome.
Experience a win for Show ambassador Eleanor
ELEANOR Parry competed at the Royal Melbourne Show for the title of Victorian Rural Ambassador.
Representing the St Arnaud show and the Wimmera region, she competed alongside eight other exceptional candidates.
Even though she may not have come home with any silverware, she was pleased to have had her hat in the ring.
“I am extremely honoured to have been able to represent our community at state level,” she said.
Ms Parry said this process began just on 12 months ago where she entered as our St Arnaud Show Rural Ambassador,
“I then progressed onto the second round, district level at the WASA [Wimmera Agricul-
tural Societies Association] winning the title of Wimmera Rural Ambassador alongside our junior representative Dusty Raiyn McIntyre,” she said
“Both Dusty and I went onto the state level of VAS [Victorian Agricultural Shows],
Dusty competed in Bendigo in July and Ms Parry at Melbourne show over the AFL Grand Final weekend.
She said it wasn’t all about winning the title.
“The process is such a wonderful opportunity to meet likeminded passionate youth, have deep and real conversations around issues within our rural communities.
“I have come out of this experience with lifelong friends, connections, new skills and ideas.
I highly recommended getting involved and giving this opportunity a crack, the doors this experience opens is well worth it.”
Congratulations to the 2025 Victorian Junior Ambassador Winner Charlotte Wigney from the Bendigo Show representing Northern District and the 2025 Victorian Rural Ambassador winner Harry Lloyd from Kyabram show and Goulburn Valley Riverina. We wish Harry all the best as he prepares over the coming 12 months to compete at the next level in Queensland 2026.
St Arnaud Show is this Saturday, so make sure you get up there to Lord Nelson Park to support our small community show.
There is still time to put an entry in or even put your name down for rural ambassador.
35 years after camp detour
By CR KAREN PROBST
HAPPY 35th, Karen! It was about this weekend 35 years ago, when I still lived in the suburbs, that we were riding our motorbikes to the Big Desert to camp for the weekend.
A job had been advertised at the St Arnaud hospital, so we made a slight detour and stopped in to have a quiet look at the medical lab. When we dropped in to the lab, the scientist showed us around and sent us to the office to get a job application.
The admin assistant said the CEO was free and took us in to chat with him; leather jackets, helmet hair and all. A month later, St Arnaud was my home.
That’s the joy of a country life. As I finished off in my last article, I love that I’m not in an impersonal suburban sprawl.
A random pop in, an introduction to people, a welcome, and here we are.
That’s not to say it’s all easy. I moved from working full time, to staying at home; from having lots of friends, to knowing no-one; from being in paid work, to not having my own income.
I forced myself go and meet people, very intimidating as I used to be shy and quiet.
But I did; sports clubs, church, my husband’s co-workers, taking up squash and basketball, joining the tennis club, filling in the 15 hours a week I didn’t have to spend travelling to and from work.
Living in the country has also opened so many opportunities that I might not have experienced had I stayed in the suburbs. From little things like walking most places, to the cinema, to school and the shops, and chatting to people down the street, especially on those days when I really need a pick-me-up and a kind word with a smile.
To the bigger things, like running my own business. I’d have never thought that would be my life. But this little country town offered me that opportunity, and I’m pretty sure that if I’d stayed in the suburbs that wouldn’t have happened.
My challenge for you this week: think of something positive about where you live; tell someone, take a photo, write a journal. Or just give a big country smile to people you meet, because that’s actually the best part of county life.
Bob Wooley has lead the St Arnaud Citizens Band since taking on band master in 1987.
Eleanor Parry at VAS state final in Melbourne
WHAT’S ON
CHARLTON
Art & Photography Exhibition
New Venue: Charlton Park Calder Highway, Charlton
Friday 10th – Monday 13th
October 2025
Friday: 6.30pm (Official Opening)
Saturday: 10am – 4pm
Sunday: 10am – 4pm Monday 10am-1pm
Admission
Official Opening $25 at the door
Early Bird tickets from CNH $20
General Entry Saturday & Sunday $5
Children Under 18 Free
Email: charltonartexhibition@gmail.com
Phone: 0404850961
Facebook: Charlton Art & Photography Exhibition
Wax Garden Guided Walks
St Arnaud Field Naturalists Club is offering guided walks to view the wildflowers at the Wax Garden.
Saturday 11th October
between 10:00am and 2:00pm Meet at the Wax Garden BYO Food and Drink
All Welcome Inquiries to Viva at starnaudfieldnats@gmail.com
CHARLTON OPEN GARDENS
SUNDAY OCT 12 11am - 4pm
$20 includes 6 gardens & afternoon tea Registration at Uniting Church Hall Halliday Street, Charlton Enquires to Lynne McRae Phone: 0408 113 104
Swap Meet & Market
Sunday 13th October 2025 at Charlton Park 8 am to 1.00 pm
Something for everyone Motor parts, Nursery Household items, Ice Cream and the Lions Barbeque $200 IGA raffle voucher
Site Fee $15: Admission $5 (Children U16 free)
Contact: Kevin Willey 5491 1830 or G Larmour 5491 1647
Lions Club of St. Arnaud Paper Collection
Sunday, 5th October, 2025
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER EMPLOYMENT
Maintenance Employee/Plant Operator – St Arnaud
Employment type: Permanent full-time
Salary: $68,320.98 – $72,593.16 p.a. (including maintenance and industry allowances) | plus 12% superannuation | fortnightly RDOs | uniform and boot allowance | great team culture!
Love the outdoors? Enjoy working with machinery and making a visible impact in your community? Northern Grampians Shire Council is on the lookout for a motivated, handson Maintenance Employee/Plant Operator to join our St Arnaud team and help shape the spaces and places that locals love and visitors remember.
About the role: This is not your average job — it is for someone who thrives outdoors, values teamwork and takes pride in a job well done.
You will be: Operating plant and equipment for road and infrastructure works • keeping our community spaces safe, tidy, and in top condition • helping deliver projects that enhance how we live, move, and connect • carrying out routine maintenance, basic repairs, and inspections • collaborating with a supportive and experienced crew.
Work hours you will love: Monday to Thursday, 7am to 4pm; Fridays, 7am to 3:30pm one week, RDO the next.
What we are looking for: If you are a reliable team player who brings energy, care and common sense to every job, you will fit right in.
Ideally, you will also have: Experience in civil works or outdoor maintenance • a valid Victorian Driver’s Licence (MR licence highly desirable) • a current Construction Induction White Card (or equivalent) • competency with plant operation, or willingness to learn • a genuine commitment to safety and teamwork.
Why work with us? Because we don’t just build and maintain roads — we build great teams, strong communities, and careers that matter.
At Northern Grampians Shire Council, you will get: Regular RDOs – enjoy long weekends, more often • supportive work culture – respectful, down-to-earth people who have got your back • professional development – upskilling, tickets and pathways to grow • flexible working options – we get that life is not 9 to 5 • annual uniform and boot allowance – we will keep you geared up • salary packaging options – remote housing, novated leasing and more • generous leave entitlements – including parental leave, gender affirmation, and purchased leave • Employee Assistance Program – because your wellbeing matters.
Please visit www.ngshire.vic.gov.au/Careers/Current-vacancies for more information and to apply by Sunday, October 5, 2025.
BRENT McALISTER
Birds in Focus Stuart Giles
Official Opening
Sunday 5th October, 2pm
Opening Times Sat/Sun 11th & 12th 10am – 4pm
Charlton Courthouse Gallery 8 Camp Street, Charlton Entry by Donation
EMPLOYMENT
JOB VACANCIES
Birchip
Junior Food and Domestic Service
Assistant
Charlton
Food and Domestic Service
Assistant
Junior Food and Service Assistant
Donald
Resident Lifestyle Coordinator
St Arnaud
Endorsed Enrolled Nurse
Executive Assistant (Primary Care)
Deputy Director of Clinical Services
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.
Please leave newspapers on nature strip by 9am
TENDERS
CONTRACT No. C130 2025/2026SUPPLY AND/OR DELIVERY OF ROADMAKING MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS
The Buloke Shire Council invites tenders from companies, or individuals, with a proven ability in the ongoing supply and/or delivery of roadmaking materials and products for use in the construction and maintenance of Council’s road network. 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 October 2025.
SELF
• LONG OR SHORT TERM STORAGE AVAILABLE Hayley: 0409 337 276, Luke: 0458 885 266
Nicola Kirk Physiotherapist
Over 17 years experience Open Mon to Fri 63 Napier Street, St. Arnaud 0400 451 432 or 5495 1108
Top of the Town Beauty Salon
For all your hair and beauty needs
Ph: 5495 1306
~ Open ~ Monday to Friday Colours, Perms, Unisex Cuts, Waxing, Teeth Whitening, Brow Wax & Tinting, Tanning etc..
110 Napier St., St. Arnaud
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
BE YOUR OWN BOSS FREIGHT BUSINESS FOR SALE
An excellent opportunity to own a well-established freight business with a strong local reputation.
R Regular & reliable customers
R Daily runs to St Arnaud, Ballarat, Maryborough & Donald
R Truck included in the sale
R Ready to operate from day one!
) All enquiries: Brett – 0418 508 404
* Email: SaintFr8@outlook.com
MINSTER
- Lee Desmond
passed away peacefully on Sept. 27th 2025, aged 75 years. Son of the late Joseph and Annie Minster. Loved brother of Geoff, Neil (dec), Jill and Daryl. Uncle to their families.
A private funeral will be held KELL FUNERALS
NFDA EST: 1860 ST ARNAUD 5495 1043
PICKTHALL
- David John 26-7-1960 – 24-9-2025 of St Arnaud passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family. Beloved husband of Lucy and loving father of Barbara and Greg; Trevor and Roxie; Liz and Carl; Chris and Tanesha; Shane and April; Katrina and Jerome; and Philomena. Adored Pa of Scarlett, Aidan, Calan; Charlie, Ariella; Ava; Remi, Jai; Isabella, Leo and Asher.
WILLIAMS
- Alan (Snow)
passed away peacefully on the 26th Sept. 2025 at Kara Crt. St Arnaud, aged 82 years. Youngest son of the late Maggie and Alfred (Snow) Williams. Beloved brother and brother-in-law of Theo (dec); Val and Kevin (dec) Flint; Marj (dec) and Bernie Burge.
WILLIAMS - Alan (Snow)
Passed away on 26th September, 2025 at Kara Court, St. Arnaud. Aged 82 years. Youngest son of the late Maggie and Alfred (Snow) Williams.
Brother to Theo (dec.), Val Flint and Marj Burge (dec.)
Beloved brother and brother-in-law of Marj (dec.) and Bernie Burge.
Loved and cherished Uncle Al to Peter, Jenny, Darren and Simon and their families. We’ll miss your stories, your smile and your steady presence in our lives. Forever in our hearts.
Beloved brother and brother-in-law of Val and Kevin (dec.) Flint
Loved Uncle of Leanne, Debbie and Kathryn and their families. Fond memories. The Brigade Management Team and Members of the St. Arnaud Fire Brigade express our deepest sympathies on the passing of our Life Member, Alan ‘Snow’ Williams.
Joining in 1963, Snow devoted 62.5 years of service to the St Arnaud Fire Brigade.
Our sincere condolences to Snow’s family and friends.
A dedicated member and friend of the St Arnaud Fire Brigade who will be missed.
WILLIAMS
- Alan (Snow)
1943 - 2025
We have special memories of working together at North West Drycleaners from 1959 including 10 years in partnership 1965 to 1975.
Deepest sympathy to the family from Howard, Jan and family, and past staff.
R.I.P. Mate.
WILSON (Wall)
- Elma June
passed away peacefully in St Arnaud on Sept. 21st, 2025, aged 87 years. Loving wife of Jim (dec) and much loved mother of Roger, Debbie; Scott and Veronica; and Murray (dec). Adored Gran and Granny of Travis, Cameron, Matthew, Aaron, Nathan, Nicole; Ava and Finn.
Treasured Great Granny of 10.
‘To be together in the same old way, Would be my dearest wish today’ Reunited together again.
Daughter of the late Perc and Mary Wall. Loved sister of Dotty (dec), Edna, Colin (dec) and Ian.
WILSON (nee Wall)
- Elma June
Passed peacefully at Kara Court St Arnaud 21/9/25 aged 87.
Loved Mother and Mother In law to Roger and Debbie.
Loved Gran to Travis and Leah, Cameron and Rachael, Matthew and Justyna, Aaron and Jamie, Nathan and Jess, Nicole and Jason.
Treasured Great Gran of Emma, Archie, Mollie, Henry, Louis, Elijah, Summer, Sophie, Zoe and Leo.
Forever in all our hearts and reunited with “Jim Bob” and Murray.
WILSON (nee Wall)
- Elma June
In loving memory of Elma, cherished mother and mother in law of Scott and Veronica, adored Granny of Ava and Finn.
Always remembered for her kindness, warmth, exceptional ironing skills and amazing pavlovas Deeply missed, forever loved, never forgotten.
WILSON (nee Wall)
- Elma June
The Tracy siblings: Mark, Glenn and Jillian remember our dear, kind and humourous aunty Elma as an integral and beloved part of our childhood. Now with our parents Dot and Bill dec.
WILSON (nee Wall)
- Elma June
A wonderful friend for nearly seventy years to Margaret and all of the Roberts family. Forever grateful for the good times and the laughs. Much loved and missed by Margaret, Michael, Gillian, Anthony, Vivienne and their families.
WILSON (nee Wall)
- Elma June
Girls day out at the Dancing Kelpie will never be the same. Sadly missed.
Love from Margaret, Lucy, Barb and Lorna.
PICKTHALL
Requiem mass for the repose of the soul for the late Mr. David J. Pickthall will be held at the Church of Immaculate Conception, St. Arnaud on FRIDAY (Oct 3rd) at 1.30pm. At the conclusion of mass the funeral will then leave for the St. Arnaud Lawn Cemetery.
Tributes at lifelived.com.au
KELL FUNERALS
NFDA EST: 1860 ST ARNAUD 5495 1043
WILLIAMS
A graveside service for Alan (Snow) will be held at the St Arnaud Lawn Cemetery on Oct. 8th 2025 at 1.30pm
KELL FUNERALS
NFDA EST: 1860
ST ARNAUD 5495 1043
WILSON (Wall)
A service for Elma will be held at the Uniting Church St. Arnaud on WEDNESDAY, Oct. 1st at 1.00pm. The cortege will then leave for the St. Arnaud Lawn Cemetery.
KELL FUNERALS
NFDA EST: 1860 ST ARNAUD 5495 1043
BEREAVEMENT THANK YOU
The family of Thelma Medlyn would like to thank all for their cards, flowers, food and condolences upon her death. Also thank you to the staff at Kara Court for your loving care of Thelma over the years, to Kell Funeral Service for your care and support and to the RSL ladies for your lovely afternoon tea.
CHURCH NOTICES
ST. ARNAUD CHURCH OF CHRIST
Cnr Queens Ave & Alma St.
Celebrating faith in our Lord Thu 2nd October
10.30 a.m.: Faith Group Sun 5th October
10.30 a.m.: Worship & Communion Speaker: Peter Fleming Community Lunch to follow. Tues. 7th October
4.00 p.m.: Discovery Club. All welcome to the above occasions. Enquiries: Church 0494 391 466
DISTRICT CATHOLIC CHURCHES
East Wimmera Parish
BIRCHIP - Sunday October 5th
10.30am
Live Stream out to churches without Mass
BOORT - Sunday October 5th
10.30am - Live Stream in BANYENA - No Mass
CHARLTON - Sunday October 5th
10.30am - Live Stream in
DONALD - Sunday October 5th
8.30am - Mass
ST.ARNAUD - Saturday October 4th
7.00pm - Mass
WYCHEPROOF - Sunday October 5th
10.30am - Live Stream in
Parish Coordinator: Noeline Hogan 0476 617 976
UNITING CHURCH
ST. ARNAUD / STUART MILL Sunday 5th October
St. Arnaud 9.30am Worship Team. All Welcome. PARISH OFFICE
Chris & Rob Batters
Pastorial Co-ordinators Enquiries: 5495 6223
ANGLICAN PARISH OF ST. ARNAUD
Christ Church Old Cathedral
St. Arnaud: 9.30am Every Sunday Eucharist
Bealiba: 8am 2nd/4th Sunday
All Welcome
Rev. Peter Downes
Enquiries phone: 0412 957 383
October 1st
Jai Ezard
John Maher
Cam Stewart
October 2nd
Cindy Pritchard
October 4th
Jackson Medlyn
October 5th
Dale Wilson
October 6th
Chelsea Durward
October 7th
Christopher Horsfall
Justin Wild
Lascinda Sutherland
School Holidays Special price– just $10pp!
KANGAROO” Sun 28 September @ 2.00 pm Wed 1 October @ 2.00 pm “DOWNTOWN ABBEY - THE GRAND FINALE” Fri 10 October @ 7.30 pm Sun 12 October @ 2.00 pm
How was that? Wheely good!
CARS, tractors and trucks lined the Avoca River on Sunday when Wheels on A79 staged its first show and shine at Charlton Park.
Members of the car club formed only last year had activated networks across Victoria to attract more than 100 vehicles spanning more than a century of automotive evolution to be part of the club’s first major event.
Secretary Anthony Hargreaves the club, already boasting more than 30 members, had banded together preparing for the day.
“We had a working bee, expecting everything would take two hours to do, so many turned up it was all done in an hour,” he said.
The club gained sponsorship from car insurer Shannons who awarded its top trophy to St Arnaud’s Peter Knight’s shiny BMW.
Charlton’s Gary Pyers took out the trophy for best pre-1960 truck - a 1948 Ford that had been owned by the Wright family.
“There were a few members of the British Motor Club staying in Charlton for the weekend to have a look at our first event,” he said.
“We’ve had some really good feedback and are optimstic that members will come back next year with their historic vehicles and have them on show.”
Year 10 work experience team from Charlton College assisted with catering at Sunday’s show and shine.
RESULTS
Best vintage tractor pre-1960: John Leach (1950 Massey Ferguson). Modern tractor post-1960: John Stiley (1965 International A554). Best vintage truck: Gary Pyers. Post-1960: Anthony Neil (Kenworth 2023 T909).
Gary said he had been looking to buy the old Ford and “one day about 20 years ago, the family came to me and said it was for sale”.
“I made the purchase, got the engine going again and set about restoring the Ford,” he said.
“Interesting story behind the truck,” Gary said. “It was brought as a prime mover and the rear section was hit by a train and the rebuilt as a body truck.”
Best modified car: Rae Bridson (1948 Ford Tourer). Best original car: Randall Perry (1969 KH Holden Monaro). Best original - plastic bumper: Daryl Allan (2009 Holden GTS). Best vintage: Craig Watts (1934 Chevolet Roadster).
Anthony said the day had attracted wide interest from within car clubs.
John Stiley with his trophy for best post1960 tractor
Daryl Allen under the bonnet of his 2009 Holden GTS
Trophy winners Randall and Lisa Perry
Coonooer Bridge’s Craig and Michelle Watts
John Wright and Gary Pyers with the winning 1946 Ford
Lexi Coughlan and Tilly Smile are smiles at the show and shine
Wheels on A79 attracted a good crowd to Charlton Park for its first big event since forming last year.
St Arnaud’s Peter Knight receives his top trophy from Shannons’ Leon Yeates. NCN PHOTO
Top pair’s rolling first
HEATHER Esmore and John Nevill were given the honour of putting down the first bowls at St Arnaud Country Club on Sunday to open the 2025-2026 season
Heather and John were last year’s club champions.
Following official proceedings, Country Club members were joined by St Arnaud Bowls Club players for the second annual pre-season practice match.
Both clubs selected two pennant sides as match committees began fine tuning preparations for the new North Central playing area season.
Two games of 10 ends were completed on the well-prepared green.
In Division One after the first game, St Arnaud were 13 shots up, Ashley Dyke’s four winning 8-7, Glendon Hancock’s four by 11-2, and Terry McSwain’s side
13-10. Trevor McDonald’s Country Club side of Peter Marland, Rhonda Pole and Leigh Watkins were overtaken by Dyke’s rink on the last end of the first game.
This overall margin increased to 37 shots with St Arnaud’s Terry McSwain scoring heavily for a 19-2 shot win; Ashley Dyke also winning 11-2; the only loss for St.Arnaud Glendon Hancock 9-11.
In Division Two, Laurie Goodwin’s four were the only first game winners 11-6, Lloyd Goddard going down 3-17, and Paul Micallef 6-11.
Mark Esmore’s Country Club four of Don McAllister, Des Moulday and Gary White had an impressive win over the side of Goddard, J Pendergast, M. McIntre and H. Stevenson in the first game.
However things changed strongly in favour of St Arnaud in the second game, Laurie Goodwin up 11-6, Lloyd Goddard up 15-2, and Paul Miccallef 10-3. This gave St Arnaud an overall win of 11 shots, 58 shots to Country Club 47 shots.
This pre-season contest between St.Arnaud and Country Club bowlers is now a permanent fixture and St Arnaud bowlers were very appreciative of the efforts of the Country Club members in making all aspects of the event so enjoyable, particularly the wonderful catering by the ladies.
ST ARNAUD Country Club wrapped up the 2025 season when 24 players competed in the inaugural John Proctor Memorial Pinehurst event on Sunday.
John was a long-term member of the Club and, following his passing, a mixed event was included in the golf syllabus as a memorial to him.
The weather was fine and the atmosphere very relaxed, as players and teams worked through the Pinehurst format. Winners for the day were the in-form combination of Jenny and David Lanyon, who have both had good seasons on the course. Runners up were the dynamic duo of Alison Fahey and Tubby Drendel.
The combination of the monster hitter, Mark McGrath, and the older of the Gre Gre composters, Lindsay Baldock, finished in third place. Nearest to pin on the 6th hole went to Brenda Proctor, while Lindsay Baldock and John Sanga Goode took out honours on the 8th and 18th holes respectively.
Crown progeny three have a week of good returns
THE Berrimal-based trotting stallion Danny Bouchea, the 2007 Australasian Breeders Crown 2yo Trot winner, continued his successful season with three winners at Maryborough last week.
Foaled in 2004 the Sundon colt won the Breeders Crown as a 2yo and the following year he won the Victorian Trotters Derby. In all he won 19 races and prizemoney of $326,062.
As a sire he has had 44 of his progeny go to the races with average earnings of $45,109 per starter.
The third leg of Danny Bouchea’s Maryborough treble was Poppy Popstar who was bred by Greg Hargreaves at Kurraca and is trained by Tarah McNamara for herself and her husband Jack and was driven by James Herbertson.
Another winner at that meeting was My Darling Dancer who was bred by Ross and Mary Conway at Gower East and is raced, trained and driven by Ashley Ainsworth of Moyreisk.
The 8yo mare’s third dam is Libby Low the dam of Kilmore Cup winner Nicholas Branach, St Arnaud Pacing Cup winner Voight and nine other winners.
A winning double at Mildura the follow-
SAM POSTLETHWAITE has taken out the St Arnaud Inter-Hotel Pool Competition’s David Harvey Shield.
Postlethwaite was a member of the RSL team with 28 wins and five losses for the season. Runner-up was Ned Gorrie of the Farmers’ Arms One side with 26 wins and 10 losses.
Best of the rest were Harley Durward (Country Club Two, 22–11), Des Moulday (Country Club One, 20 11), Stephen Rodger
By INSIDE RUNNING
ing night for Ellen Tormey took her tally of winners for the current season to 100 with three months remaining.
It is the fourth time that Ellen has topped the century mark since she had her first race drive in the 06/07 season.
She is the leading female driver in Victoria and currently sits third in the State Drivers Premiership behind James Herbertson and Chris Alford.
Charlton driver Luke Dunne got another winner at the Mildura meeting and then at Bendigo on Wednesday night he scored again on Swiss Lightning for Marnie Bibby.
The driver of the fourth horse, Starzinhereyes, in race one at Melton on Saturday night was former leading driver Daryl Douglas who had not driven in a race since late 2023. The 52yo has driven 4739 winners in his career that have won in excess of $29m in stakes. His last winner was at Stawell in December 2023.
The Charlton club had a strong eight race card for its meeting on the Monday with their next meeting being on the Monday of the Melbourne Cup weekend.
(Logan, 19-15), Jesse Cook (Sporting Club, 14–20) and Ashley Craddock (Farmers’ Arms Two, 9-12). The Pepe Case Memorial Most Improved Award went to Jesse Cook while the Steve Carroll Memorial Encouragement Award was bestowed upon the Farmers’ Arms Two team’s Jack Hodges. The local competition now looks forward to the 2026 season and the Victorian Country Cup Carnival in Mildura in February.
David and Jenny Lanyon (far left and third from left), pictured with Marg and Brenda Proctor.
Heather Esmore
John Nevill gets the Country Club season rolling
District golfers travelled to Wedderburn for the annual FARA Day event on Grand Final Eve. Among them were St Arnaud’s Alison Fahey and Jenny Lanyon (above) and Charlton’s Ian Jenkins and John Headon (below). NCN PHOTOS
Champions crowned at grand night
Badminton Club champions Troy Heenan and Naomi Fitzpatrick have been presented with their trophies at the annual dinner.
For Troy, it was the seventh time he has taken out the single’s title while the success was a first for Naomi.
Their perpetual trophies, which were commenced in 1981, had been filled, so the club has revamped the trophies, keeping the historic record, but making room for many more years to come.
A raffle was also drawn during the night with Sandra Fanning winning the badminton racquet and Tom McGurk receiving a basket of chocolate assortments.
The 2025 trophy recipients wereSingles - Men’s A Grade Troy Heenan. Runner-up Thomas Aykara. B Grade Leigh Van Boven. Runner-up Lachlan Start. Ladies: Naomi Fitzpatrick. Runner-up Sandra Fanning.
Doubles - Men’s A Grade: Thomas Aykara and Soni Easo. Runnerup: Lachlan Holmes-Brown and Seb Zagame. B Grade: Fletcher Holmes-Brown and Joe Monaghan. Runner-up Henry Bourke and Brian Heenan.
Ladies - A Grade: Abby and Lara Thompson. Runner-up Sandra Fanning & Naomi Fitzpatrick. B Grade: Lauren Riley and Stacy Thompson. Runner-up Janette Wain and Bernadette Zagame. Mixed Doubles - A Grade Troy and Rae Heenan. Runner-up Ethan Needs and Naomi Fitzpatrick. B Grade Ethan Soulsby and Lara Thompson. Runner-up Peter Morrison and Val Bourke. Men’s Aggregate: Troy Heenan Runner-up Thomas Aykara . Ladies: Lara Thompson. Runnerup Claudia Lee. Section 1: Troy Heenan. Section 2: Leigh Van Boven. Section 3: Jordan Start. The ladies’ competition was
conducted over 17 weeks plus one week for the annual tournament, which saw 38 ladies from Geelong, Bendigo, Horsham, Ballarat and our own locals compete in grades of friendly competition.
There were 16 ladies registered for Charlton’s weekly games with an average of 12 each Friday.
At the completion of the winter season, Lisa Bruns was the winner of Section 1, with Donna Sexton the runner-up.
Section 2 winner was Bernadette Zagame with Maree Hooper the runner up.
The Aggregate winner was Bernadette Zagame and the runner up, Lisa Bruns.
The summer competition will commence on October 10 at 9am.
The junior season was well supported with 42 juniors, aged from nine to 15, taking part.
Each week was well attended making competition very good.
At the breakup and presentation night, trophies were presented to:
Most Improved: Sophie Roberts. Most Improved in the beginners: Edwin Jince. All Rounder: Rosie Fitzpatrick. Rae Heenan’s: Finn Scholfield. Rae Heenan’s 1st year player: Alodia Acantilado
Section 1 - Sharks winner- Liam Monaghan. Runner-up: Charlie Zagame. Section 2 - Stingrays winner: Clancy Bourke. Runnerup: Darcy Olive. Section 3 - Jellyfish winner: Tom McGurk. Section 4 Seals – winner: Shalmaine Drummond. Runner-up: Nate Lane. Section 5 Dolphins – winner: Mia Wright. Runner-up: Lila Lanyon.
Overall scores for Girls’ Aggregate winner – Lila Scholfield with runner-up Lily Lane. Boys’ Aggregate winner was Liam Monaghan with runner-up Charlie Zagame while the Beginners’ Ag gregate went to Nate Lane from Shalmaine Drummond.
ST ARNAUD CUP
SAT 25 OCT
GATES OPEN 11AM
On Saturday 25 October, the JBS Pork St Arnaud Cup is as real as it gets! There’s Marquee
Packages on Sale Now, Live Music from No Mistake, the Russ Studio Jewellers Roving Fashions, The Bendigo Bank Kid’s Brumby Cup, Jumping Castle, Giant Slide, Face Painting, Town Courtesy Bus & Up-Close Racing Action!
CHARLTON
2025 Charlton Badminton Club champions Troy Heenan and Naomi Fitzpatrick
PINK SPLASH Men and ladies joined forces last Thursday at St Arnaud Country Club to raise funds for Fiona Elsey Cancer Research and play nine holes of fun golf. Players wore a touch of pink or a lot of pink to show their support of the fundraiser. Member Arnold Bond even arrived in his striking pink mini. Seven men and seven ladies played an Ambrose event with results close. The winning team was Dav Lanyon, Ernie Scilini and Mary Elliott with 30½ nett. Nearest the 18th pin winners were Dav Lanyon and Glenda O’Neill.
THIESZ THE MOMENT
CHARLTON has looked to the past and a familiar face in choosing its next senior football coach.
Carl Thiesz, who last pulled on the Navies jumper in 2013, will replace Mitch Collins as coach for 2025.
Thiesz, 36, coached Harcourt to the Maryborough Castlemaine District finals in the past two seasons after leading Marong reserves to a premiership in 2023.
He faces a big task to make Charlton competitive with the
By GARY WALSH
better teams in the North Central league after years in the doldrums.
“Back when I was playing with the Navies we were in the finals a fair bit, and that is the aim – to get the team back into finals contention,” he told the NCN Herald.
“It will be nice to finish my senior playing career back with Charlton.”
Thiesz said that strong recruiting would be the key to improve-
ment. “The aim is to get in a couple of very good players,” he said, noting that there was little happening on the recruitment front so soon after the end of the season.
“We’re working on a few names, but it’s early days and people want a bit of time off before making any decisions,” Thiesz said.
He signed to play with Charlton in 2020, but that season was abandoned due to the COVID pandemic.
When country football re-
turned properly in 2022, he joined Marong, and the following year coached the Panthers reserves to a flag.
“We had some very, very talented players in that side – the reserves were pretty stacked that year,” Thiesz said.
“There were seven or eight players who could have been in the senior side, and it was such a well-built system at Marong.”
Marong also won the senior Loddon Valley premiership in 2023, the second of four flags in a row.
said the chance then arose to coach Harcourt seniors, and it was too good an opportunity to let pass.
Now comes the challenge to rebuild the Navies.
“All the young senior players now were probably back in the under-14s when I was last there –I would have played with plenty of their fathers,” Thiesz quipped.
“I’ll bring a well-structured game plan, and we’ll have a tightknit group playing team footy.” Charlton finished the 2025 season with four wins.
Thiesz