Trevor Adem was part of the planning workshop on Monday.
HOW’S THE LOCAL CARE?
THE COMMUNITY has spoken. And it wants more access to healthcare locally.
Residents and organisations from St Arnaud and across the country came together on Monday to discuss just how that might look at a workshop facilitated by Larter.
This project was initiated because it is becoming increasingly difficult to attract and retain health and medical professionals in rural communities across the region.
Murray and Western Victoria PHNs (Primary Health Network) sought input to design sustainable primary healthcare services for the East Wimmera region particularly focusing on St Arnaud to inform the service design and partnership approach.
“It’s an important conversation we know the residents themselves need to be a part of,” Murray PHN chief executive Matt Jones said.
CONTINUED PAGE 3
P12 COLLEGE CASH HIT
VICTORIA’S P12 schools are to be stripped of vital funding by the State Government.
Schools across the region could be $640 a student worse off from next year with the hit tipped to cost them $900 a student within two years.
Concern for the hit on schools offering classes from prep to Year 12, including Charlton, was raised in State Parliament last week by the Member for Murray Plains, Peter Walsh.
Mr Walsh said Victoria’s financial mess has reached the point where cuts are the only way forward – and that’s where the Allan Government was now going.
He says “everyone knows, and it has been widely reported” Victoria’s state schools are the most poorly funded in the country.
“The Allan Labor government has claimed – and I quote – ‘Victoria’s vision for the Education State is to deliver excellence in every classroom, in every corner of the state’,” Mr Walsh said. “Except, obviously, in Boort.
“Schools have been told that they will be able to write-off debt next year but principals say 2027 will be ‘the pinch year’.”
“We will use all our savings to get through next year,” one regional principal said this week.
“After that, we will be losing teachers, support staff ... kids will have limited options”.
A Government spokesperson told NCN Herald on Monday: “We are continuing to ensure every dollar families invest in their child’s education directly benefits their child today on their
school journey. “We have made a number of changes to the 2026 indicative school budgets, including changes to the P12 complexity allowance, to simplify school budget line items for business managers and principals.”
“Following consultation with schools, adjustments are also being made to the School Carryover Policy that will enable small rural P12 schools to maintain existing programs - ensuring our students receive the world-class education they deserve.” P12 complexity allowance fol-
low a report to the State Government in June.
The independent review into administrative and compliance activities in Victorian government schools made multiple recommendations on school administration, finances, resources and governance. The report recommendations included a review of financial requirements against red tape reduction principles to reduce workload that is not purposeful.
The Government said it would consider the recommendations.
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Arnaud 3478
Roving shop returns
AFTER a six-year absence, Charlton’s much-loved Late-Night Shopping Night returned on Friday, and the comeback exceeded every expectation.
The event sold out rapidly, with excited locals and visitors moving in guided groups through seventeen participating businesses, rediscovering the warmth, creativity, and charm of Charlton’s retail heart.
The night unfolded with nibbles and drinks at the East Charlton Hotel and the sound of chatter filled the venue.
Street fronts bustled as friends, families, and neighbours embraced the opportunity to shop local and celebrate together.
Midway through the rotation, groups converged at The Charlton Club, where the specially crafted Cocktail of the Night was enjoyed with enthusiasm.
A standout feature this year was the walkthrough of the Travellers Rest’s beautiful new cabin, generously opened by Leanne and Greg Fanning.
Their hospitality, complete with refreshments, delighted participants and showcased the exciting improvements underway at one of Charlton’s key visitor assets.
A highlight was the significant contribution from Boral, whose generous donation helped bring the event to life and ensured every group could enjoy a polished, well-organised experience.
They provided the Boral Raffle, filled entirely with items bought from Charlton businesses, valued at over $500.
Boral’s generosity was warmly
acknowledged throughout the evening.
The lucky winner, Lyn Edyvean, had already declared earlier that she and her husband Dave were “having the best night”, a sentiment made even sweeter when her name was called.
Charlton’s traders matched the energy with an array of Lucky Shopper Awards, including hampers, vouchers, and festive treats. The night concluded at the Vale of Avoca with a shared sense a cherished tradition had returned.
Charlton Neighbourhood House said they would like to thank to all of the businesses, volunteers, sponsors, and participants.
IN BRIEF
Keeping your pets safe
A TEMPERATURES increase and daylight lingers, pets face an increase in life-threatening risks, from snakes and ticks to fleas and heat stress.
An estimated 6200 snakebite incidents are expected for Australia’s dogs every year.
The majority occur of these bites occur in the summer, with approximately 84 per cent of cases linked to the warmest months of the year.
As snakes seek shelter in shaded gardens and under backyard debris, our pets are often the first to stumble upon them.
Paralysis ticks are another deadly threat with the peak exposure times typically witnessed in the warmer weather after wet periods.
By restricting you pets access to long grass or bushy areas during these hours you can reduce risk of a bite.
Subscriber update
YOUR local NCN online digital edition moves sole to our designated platform from December 31.
Subscriptions and access will be only at www.northcentralnews.com.au from that date when we fully retire use of the Issuu platform. Online readers of our weekly digital edition are requested to ensure they make the necessary arrangements for subscriptions.
Lyn Edyvean won the big raffle prize.
Everyone gathered at the Vale of Avoca at the end of the night.
Fill your belly with festive food
By ALEX GRETGRIX
HOPING to bring light to those facing loneliness this holiday season, the St Arnaud Community Kitchen is coming together on Christmas Day to serve lunch for anyone without a place to celebrate.
After a short hiatus, the group will be bringing back a hot lunch on December 25, something they’ve wanted to do for years.
“We’ve heard that there won’t be many other places for people to go on Christmas day, so we knew we needed to be here for them,” volunteer Kim Lambert said.
“We had about 80 people when we did our Christmas lunch about four years ago and we had great feedback.”
While the not-for-profit organisation provides a delicious home cooked morning tea, main meal and dessert every Tuesday, volunteer Tracey Dunstan said the meals on Christmas Day meant a little more.
“We want to be a safe place for people who may not have anywhere to be that day,” she said.
“Christmas can be a very isolat-
ing and lonely time for some people, so we want to be more than a meal. “We are a place for the community to come and socialise over a cuppa and we have no cut off time, they can stay as long as they’d like.”
The team will make all your dreams come true with a festive feast on the Thursday morning and after lunch.
From 11am a grazing table full of coffee, tea and hot chocolate plus Christmas cake and shortbread will be available.
Lunch will be an assortment of roast meats and vegetables plus gravy, cheese and mint sauces.
And dessert of course will include Christmas pudding and custard or pavlova.
Mrs Dunstan said she hoped the volunteers would be able to enjoy their Christmas Day too.
“We want to be able to sit down with everyone and enjoy lunch with them too,” she said. “It’s as much a rewarding day for us and we want to see all those smiling faces.
People can pay $25 each to attend the event at Steward Hall.
Call Tracey on 0433 290 670 to book your spot in advance.
Community has say on health services
From Page 1
“It’s great that we’ve had interest from the Federal Government who may want to fund an initiative if we can put one together that meets as many needs as possible.
“And we’ve had such an engaged group here today, that’s a very good start.”
East Wimmera Health Service chief executive Trevor Adem said it was positive to see so many people having their say on the way their healthcare could run in the region.
“We’ve had a lot of great ideas come out of this workshop and it sounds like a centralised hub, a sort of one-stop-shop for healthcare providers is something people may be able to get a lot out of,” he said.
“Now it’s about bringing all these ideas together into a transition plan forward and seeing how we can best support everyone.
“There’s a lot of potential here and I’m keen to see where we can go with it.”
There was a range of different voices in the Stewart Hall from across the country, including local healthcare providers like St Arnaud Physiotherapy Centre, Northern Grampians Shire Council (represented by staff and councillor Karen Probst), Rural Workforce Agency Victoria and national bodies representing allied health professionals and more.
“I think we’ve really captured a range of perspectives from both residents who would be using the services to the organisations that would be providing them,” Mr Jones said.
“It’s very promising to see.”
Larter’s Marianne Shearer said this was just the beginning of the process for her team now.
“We have a lot to work with and now we will be able to colate all the ideas into one plan that we will hopefully be able to present to the Federal Government,” she said.
“The vision is for St Arnaud communities to be able to access the primary healthcare they need, at the right time and place for optimal health and wellbeing.
“It’s such a privilege to be able to be a part of this process and support these communities and help get them to speak up and hopefully have their needs met.
“There’s been such a buzz here and I can see so many organisations engaging and being a part of this.
“We’re looking forward to seeing where we get to and we hope we can broaden this out to more areas across the region.
“Time will most definitely tell.
“It really is a very exciting step in hopefully the right direction.”
St Arnaud Community Kitchen volunteers Laura Basso, Maria Hills, Tracey Dunstan, Kim Lambert and Maryann McLaughlan are getting ready to provide lunch on Christmas Day. NCN PHOTO
(Above) The whole group that attended the event, (bottom left) Northern Grampians Shire councillor Karen Probst and Eric Mattsson. Western Vic PHN’s Jamie Swann. NCN PHOTOS
La Cochon Rose
We’re open this evening as part of St Arnaud’s night of Christmas shopping
Hen Picked Crafts
Open Every Thursday
Until 7.00pm until Christmas
Special discounts in store on the night!
Each purchase goes into the raffle to win a prize.
Shop locally ’til you drop
STRESSING about getting your Christmas shopping done?
Worried about buying something and it getting to you in time?
Why not shop local.
Businesses across St Arnaud will be open late tomorrow night to help you take that festive stress away with a shopping spree for the ages.
Like every other year, the shops around town will be open later than usual all in the name of helping the community and each other in a difficult time.
“It’s important now than ever to come together and support each other,” Betta Electical St Arnaud co-owner Nicole Amos said.
“We’re seeing more and more empty shops these days, and with the rise of online shopping now too, encouraging people to shop locally is the best way we know how.”
There will be plenty to choose from this week, with shops like Trendz on Napier, Russ Jewellers, Hen Picked Crafts, RamJac, La Coshon Rose and Cook’s Quality Meats and others all ready to welcome customers.
“There’s definitely going to be something for everyone,” Mrs Amos said. “We have a lot of great businesses in town who all offer something a little bit different.”
Everyone in town and beyond can shop until you drop tomorrow night from 5pm onwards.
Community marches for change against violence
Community members and schools marched last Tuesday to mark the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism.
By ALEX GRETGRIX
IT WAS a sombre feeling in the Queen Mary Botanic Gardens last Tuesday as the community came together to take steps towards eliminating violence against women and girls.
An event run by Northern Grampians Shire Council marked the first day of the 16 Days of Activism, a campaign that is a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle against gender-based violence and the importance of collective action to create a safer world for women and girls everywhere.
Guest speakers at the event included Women’s Health Grampians’ Luke Baker and St Arnaud Acting Inspector Tim Thomson, who both spoke of their witnessing of violence in their professions.
“I’m not just part of Victoria Police, I’m a husband and a father,” Inspector Thomson said.
NCN stalwart celebrates 35 years
SOMEONE who keeps the now NCN Herald running has been celebrated for reaching a significant career milestone.
Editorial assistant Bernice Fithall said she has seen a lot change in her 35 years working at the company.
“I’ve seen a lot change but enjoyed every minute,” she said.
Mrs Fithall was presented with a certificate of service recognition last week’s staff Christmas function.
NCN Herald editor Alex Gretgrix said she knew as soon as she started back in September, Mrs Fithall was an integral part of the team.
“I really don’t know how the paper would get out if it weren’t for Bernice,” she said. “There would be a lot more spelling mistakes, that’s for sure.
“Bernice is an important cog in the machine that it takes to get a paper out every week and her eye for detail - both on the page and around the office - is a big help to everyone.”
NCN managing director Chris Earl said: “Bernice is a wonderfully loyal member of our NCN team, passionate about the local newspaper and the community.”
“In an industry that has changed so much, and continues to evolve as a relevant connection in our country towns, we must always remember that it is people like Bernice who are the heart and soul of local newspapers,” he said.
“To notch up 35 years on our staff is a wonderful achievement that is richly applauded.”
“It’s our job as men to teach our young men what the expectations are and that masculinity does not equal violence.
“We need to do our part too.”
The event concluded at the park before attendees marched down to Market Square for the rest of the afternoon.
The St Arnaud Lions Club put on a BBQ while residents had the opportunity to share stories and support with each other.
Council reviews community care
NORTHERN Grampians Shire Council will review future community care service options in response to sweeping aged care sector reforms.
Council made the decision at a meeting in St Arnaud on Monday, following Federal Government changes to the way aged care services are funded and delivered.
The Aged Care Act 2024 and Aged Care Rules 2025 came into effect last month and have a fundamental focus on the rights and needs of older people.
Northern Grampians Shire chief executive Brent McAlister said the changes were designed to give older Australians greater choice in relation to services and providers.
“The services are moving from block funding – where council receives set funding to deliver services – to feefor-service models, where funding follows individual clients who can choose their own provider,” he said.
“As a result, more providers will likely enter the market to offer aged care services, which could make it difficult for council to remain cost-competitive, as these providers may deliver services more efficiently due to different cost structures, wage agreements and economies of scale.”
Mr McAlister said the community care review would help council determine if it continued to be a service provider, or if its role changed to one of advocacy, navigation and community development.
“Given we are a small rural council with a massive asset base, we are struggling financially,” he said.
“Our community care services are not fully funded by the Commonwealth Government and rely upon substantial funding from ratepayers.
Mr McAlister said the review process would start in January.
“We will have workshops in St Arnaud and Stawell to discuss what value council could provide in the event we withdraw from the service and where we could still play a valuable role.
Marlena Argent is gearing up for Thursday night at Trendz on Napier. NCN PHOTO
Managing editor Chris Earl, Bernice Fithall and editor Alex Gretgrix NCN PHOTO
NCN PHOTOS
Acting Inspector Tim Thomson.
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High flying farming tech
AROUND 20 farmers gathered at Marnoo for an exciting demonstration of cutting-edge agricultural technology last month.
The event, hosted by Driscoll Ag in collaboration with Horizon AgTech, showcased the latest green-on-green weed detection technology.
It explored how it can be applied in late post-emergent sprays, particularly for tough-tokill weeds like sowthistle.
Prior to the event, a small
drone was able to map a section of a lentil paddock, which identified problematic weeds using AI.
These were then precisely sprayed on the day using Trent Carter’s Case 4450 boomspray with individual nozzle control.
The new T100 spray drone was also demonstrated, covering 3.3 hectares in 1 tank, and travelling the speed of 75km/hr.
The demonstation provided a practical look at how emerging technologies can help growers
improve efficiency and accuracy in their paddock management.
Growers left the day impressed by the possibilities of integrating drones and smart spraying technology into their operations.
Driscoll Ag continues to do infield demonstration and experiments using this new technology with willing farmers.
Driscoll Ag extends thanks to Jim Dula for travelling from Melbourne to share his expertise.
The event was designed to explore how it can be applied in late post-emergent sprays, particularly for tough-to-kill weeds like sowthistle. And (right) around 20 farmers gathered at Marnoo last month.
Real health risks posed by farmers feeding prohibited pig food
PROHIBITED pig feed (formerly known as swill) is the act of feeding food scraps or food waste that contains meat, or which has been in contact with meat to pigs.
The feeding of prohibited pig feed to pigs is banned in Australia, as it has been shown to cause outbreaks of serious animal diseases overseas.
Agriculture Victoria Compliance Manager Daniel Bode said regardless of how many pigs anyone keeps, pig owners play a vital role in maintaining the health and welfare of Australia’s livestock.
“There are a number of requirements for pig owners that are mandatory and are monitored by state government and industry authorities,” Mr Bode said. ‘
“Pigs are recognised as ‘high risk’ animals playing a potential role in the estab-
lishment of a number of exotic diseases that could devastate the agricultural sector and impact on human health.
“The principal risk is through the feeding of prohibited substances that could contain exotic viruses.”
The exotic diseases most likely to be introduced into Australia through prohibited feeding are footand-mouth disease (FMD) and either classical or African swine fever (ASF).
Mr Bode said livestock disease control breaches can jeopardise Victoria’s status as a responsible producer of food, which can, in turn, be devasting for affected industries.
As a timely reminder, at the Echuca Magistrates Court recently, a local farmer pleaded guilty to a single offence under
WOOL REPORT
AN overall steadying week for the wool market with movements in finer MPG’s to see the EMI finish the week at 1504c, down 10c overall.
This was on the back of large gains the previous week in which the EMI gained 56 cents and some MPG increases of over 100 cents. When expressed in US$ terms which the majority of oversees trade in the EMI was only a fraction lower.
On the first day of selling (Tuesday) the market lost the most ground in the eastern states with most merino MPG’s losing 10 to 38c with finer MPG’s most affected, while the West Australian MPG’s fairing better on paper but remembering WA only had a one day sale the previous week on the Tuesday, Tuesdays EMI lost 9c by the end of the day to 1505 cents. On the second and final day movements were more modest overall with most MPG’s moving up/ down less than 10 cents in all three selling centres, which resulted in the EMI losing
just the 1 cent to finish the week at 1504c.
The Sydney wool auction last week was a designated superfine sale which saw some healthy prices for spinner style types in the finer microns, creating some increased movements in the MPG’s as premiums for those speciality types soared in comparison to best to good top making styles. Some commentators quoting those premium types up to 200 cents clean over standard types, but to achieve those levels there are strict measurement and style parameters.
The merino skirting market performed well in comparison to their fleece counterparts and finished the week up to 40c higher than the previous week, those lots with fleece like measurements most affected.Crossbred fleece MPG’s were overall slightly easier and merino cardings made modest gains.
Glendon Hancock Glendon.Hancock@elders.com.au
the Livestock Disease Control Act 1994 for allowing his pigs to have access to prohibited pig feed.
The farmer was sentenced without conviction, given an 18-month adjourned undertaking to be of good behaviour, with a special condition to pay $2000 to the court fund.
Agriculture Victoria officers attended the property to conduct a prohibited pig feeding audit and observed a sow and piglets contained in a pen with a cow carcass.
Lab testing of the carcass detected beef and traces of pork.
The court heard that the farmer had since sold all of his pigs that were on the property, removed pigs from his Property Identification Code (PIC) and had his pig tattoo brand disbanded.
Magistrate Mithen, in sentencing, acknowledged Prosecution Services submissions about the biosecurity risks associated with prohibited pig feeding, and the impact on the wider community.
He also considered defence submissions about the farmer’s good standing in the farming community, which were supported by character references.
For more information about prohibited pig feeding and what you can and can’t do with it, visit the website online at: www. go.vic.gov.au/3E0JgSe
To make a specific complaint in regard to livestock welfare or traceability breaches, you can contact Agriculture Victoria on 136 186 or via email at www. aw.complaint@agriculture.vic.gov.au
A drone was used to map paddocks before the event.
100 Years Ago
November 1925
The North Central District Fire Brigade Association held their annual demonstration at St Arnaud in Napier Street, opposite the Queen’s Gardens. Eleven Brigades attended, Mildura, Donald, Merbein, Bowenvale, Charlton, Maryborough, Inglewood, Birchip, Beulah, Red Cliffs, and St Arnaud. There were 150 firemen and 1,000 spectators watching the eight events. During the adjournment for lunch the heads of competing brigades, and Cr Sinclair of Beaufort [supervisor] were given a civic reception at the Town Hall.
St Arnaud won three – events
Four man hose and reel race [L Crone, H Smith, W Kennedy C Robertson] prize a set of spoons in a case for each man and a silver rose bowl for the Brigade.
Two man reel race [L Crone & H Smith] prize set of silver salad servers each.
Ladder race: first W Kennedy, prize a silver and oaken fern bowl and third Clarrie Wilton, prize a silver ashtray, cigar cutter & matchbox holder.
In the evening, a large crowd watched a torchlight procession led by the Mildura Junior Brass Band and the St Arnaud Brass Band from the weighbridge down the main street to the Queen’s Gardens and back to the front of the Town Hall.
The crowd enjoyed a musical programme followed by a pyrotechnical display from the tower of the Town Hall.
At a meeting of delegates held that night at the Fire Station it was decided the next Demo would be held at St Arnaud.
Officers elected for the ensuing year –President Cpt W J Pickthall of St Arnaud, Vice-Presidents Cpt Rodda of Beulah & Cpt Boag of Inglewood and Secretary A E Walsh of St Arnaud.
Rain for November 103 points making a total so far this year of 1,624 points
As he has sold his property, Mr A Dellavedova held a clearing sale at his farm on the main St Arnaud – Logan Road,
three miles from St Arnaud.
Charles Williams, butcher employed by Syd Chandler escaped injury when getting into the delivery cart in front of the shop.
The back band of the harness gave way letting the shafts fall to the ground, the horse started kicking, badly damaging the cart, Charles was thrown out and the horse took off.
On Saturday morning a Chevrolet car driven along Napier Street by Mr Crosthwaite of Roseberry collided with a lorry driven by Mr F O’Shea on the Alma st corner. The car skidded across the pavement and narrowly missed falling down the open cellar of the Manchester Arms Hotel.
Mr Herbert Lang of the Imperial Picture Theatre was driving his new Buick car on Watson’s Lake Road near Mr J C Dunstan’s homestead 1½ mile from St Arnaud when the car ran up an embankment and toppled over. Mr Lang was pinned under the vehicle until Mr Wilson of Gooroc found him and took him to the hospital, shaken but not badly hurt.
Mr J H Brown a surveyor was driving home from St Arnaud and when nearing St Arnuad East tried to adjust the windscreen with out stopping the car and it ran into a tree. Mr Brown, who suffered a badly cut face from the broken glass, was given assistance by Mr W Wright.
PICKLES
100 Years Ago
November 28 - December 2, 1925
Fire Near Grain Sheds: A fire broke out in a stack of timber and dunnage owned by the Victorian Producers’ Ltd, situated near the railway line, just north of the Grain Shed. The bell rung about 4.30pm, and the brigade was on the scene within a few minutes. On arrival it was evident that the fire had been smouldering for some time. The cause of the outbreak is unknown. The damage caused is roughly estimated at £125.The movements of the Brigade were somewhat hampered, over 700 feet of hose being required to reach the blaze. The water pressure was good. Firemen showed plenty of courage and determination in facing the terrific heat.
Wandering Cows – The Editor, “The Tribune”: Dear Sir, Can you suggest any remedy for wandering cows in the main streets. The danger to traffic at night time doesn’t matter. We realise the Council cannot be expected to do anything. Owners of gardens do not need any consideration – the law of humanity demands that half-starved animals be fed. Perhaps a subscription list might help – funds to be used to feed the domestic pets, and then drive them home for the night. The owners would then feel happy, car drivers would be safe, gardens would be saved and complaints would be at an end. Yours, etc, “HOPEFUL”
The Sheep That Came Home: In May Messrs Edward Trenchard sold on account of Messrs Lynas Bros, Culgoa, to Messrs Robertson Bros. On May 19th Lynas Bros removed 300 sheep to a property at Wooroonook, a distance of about 45 miles. On November 19th, 100 of these particular sheep were put on the road and were lost sight of. They were tracked to Culgoa, and found on the property from which they had been removed. This is one of the most remarkable instances of sheep possessing a homing instinct we have heard of.
The Low Water Bridge has been completed within the last few days. Constructed from timber materials taken partly from the old bridge and partly new timber, the
structure has a length of 112 feet with a roadway 12 ft 6 ins in width. The bridge which will be mainly used as a crossing for sheep and cattle is very substantial. The work of constructing the bridge was done in remarkably short time, approximately only a month being taken from start to finish.
Obituary: The grim reaper took another old pioneer of the district when Mrs Margaret Strayhorn passed away at her residence in Watson Street. Mrs Strayhorn was born in County Dublin in Ireland in 1860, and first came to Victoria at the age of 20. She had resided in the Charlton district for over 40 years, for sometime at Glenloth and later in Charlton. She was well known and respected by many. For some years past her health had been very bad. She was 65 years of age. During her last illness she was looked after by her niece, Mrs Tormey. She is survived by her two brothers Michael and George Fanning.
Value of Tar Coating Roads: The reason why light motor traffic causes the disintegration of water bound macadam roads is that the motion of the wheels removes the grit and sand that bind the road together. If the extraction of this fine binding material can be prevented, water bound macadam roads will be suitable for motor traffic. This can be done by surface painting with a thin layer of heated bitumen.
Motorists Note: having installed the latest “Milwaukee” visible petrol pump, Mr H. Dew, the Victory Garage, Is enabled to handle petrol in bulk. The new petrol pump is a handsome one and gives accurate and speedy measure, the amount of petrol being predetermined and served direct from the container into customer’s car in full view. The “Milwaukee” is a dependable, speedy and accurate pump.
SUDOKU
Charlton Victory Garage in 1938.
Health service celebates all
EAST Wimmera Health Service (EWHS) held its 2025 Annual General Meeting last Monday at the Donald Campus PAG Room, where community members, staff, and Board representatives gathered despite the afternoon heat.
Storm clouds and a cool change arrived as proceedings commenced, following a Board meeting held earlier in the day.
Chief executive officer Trevor Adem opened the event with a formal welcome and acknowledgment of country.
Governance and Formal Proceedings
BOARD chair Kylie Thitchener delivered the meeting’s opening address. Minutes from the 2024 meeting were adopted, and the Board of Management Report outlined ongoing progress against strategic priorities.
Outgoing Director Julianne Clift was formally acknowledged, while Philip Sabien and Deidre Missingham were reappointed to the Board. The Finance, Audit and Risk Committee provided a financial overview, followed by CEO Trevor Adem’s presentation of the Audited Financial Statements for the year ending 30 June 2025, which were unanimously adopted.
Deputy Chair Philip Sabien concluded the business session with thanks to Kylie Thitchener for her leadership throughout the year.
Board Chair Report: Leading Rural Healthcare Forward IN HER annual report, chair Kylie Thitchener highlighted EWHS’s continued emergence as a leading innovator among small rural health services. She commended the organisation’s dedicated workforce and reaffirmed EWHS’s commitment to improving health outcomes across its communities.
Strategic Priorities and Achievements
THE Board Chair reported sig-
nificant progress in the Primary Care Transformation project, including expanded home support services in Buloke Shire, new Nurse Practitioner models, and strengthened partnerships with General Practice.
These initiatives will be further advanced under the 2025–2028 Strategic Plan, which focuses on primary care, workforce development, and regional collaboration.
Key achievements for 2024–25 included:
Appointment of the first Director of Medical Services
Introduction of multidisciplinary team meetings
Secured Remote Vocational Training Scheme places for Charlton, Wycheproof, and St Arnaud
Partnership with Maryborough District Health Service to support First Nations healthcare
Continued accreditation success in ACH Standards and Aged Care
Endorsement of the Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan
Infrastructure,
Sustainability,
and Partnerships
EWHS invested in major upgrades, including staff accommodation at Birchip and Wycheproof, IT improvements across all campuses, and refurbishment of the St Arnaud pathology collection building.
Energy-efficiency audits and government support for appliance upgrades marked further progress toward long-term sustainability, with solar power remaining a strategic goal.
Ms Thitchener spoke of the strong regional partnerships, noting EWHS’s active role in the Grampians Local Health Service Network, the Loddon Mallee Health Network, and local collaborations with councils, First Nations communities, and regional health organisations.
She also welcomed new Board members Steven Price and Nola Tudball, while also recognising retiring member Ruth Jabornik for her service.
Service Awards and Staff Recognition
MR ADEM presented the 2025 service awards, celebrating longstanding contributions from staff and volunteers.
Staff Milestones:
Debbie Burton – 20 years: Known for her compassion and long-standing connection to the Donald community.
Ceri Jones – 25 years: Progressed from support services to managing the Wycheproof team.
Michelle May – 25 years: A key contributor to aged care standards across the Donald campus.
Sharlene Connelly – 20 years: Supported major transitions at Birchip and contributed to accreditation and staff wellbeing.
Leanne Considine – 25 years: Recognised for her dedication to aged care and support for junior staff.
Julie Lowry – 25 years: An ANUM since 2008, respected for
her leadership in aged and urgent care services. Volunteer milestones:
Barry Robertson – 15 years
Peter Milley – 10 years
Yvonne Templar – 20 years
Annual Awards:
Staff Values Annual Award: Sharon Williams – for exceptional patient care and professionalism, recognised by Ambulance Victoria.
Volunteer of the Year: John Richmond – for his leadership during the transition of Buloke Home Services and coordination of Meals on Wheels volunteers.
Guest Speakers: Improving Regional Cancer Care
GUEST speakers Cheryl Martin, Strategic Manager at the Loddon Mallee Integrated Cancer Service (LMICS), and Professor Leigh Kinsman, Chair of Rural Health Research at La Trobe University, presented insights into regional partnerships in cancer care.
They highlighted the Buloke and Loddon Mallee region’s high
per-capita rates of melanoma and skin cancer—among the highest in Victoria—and stressed the challenges posed by limited local infrastructure and long-distance travel for specialist treatment. Their presentation emphasised the importance of strengthening referral pathways, improving access to diagnostic services, and ensuring that community voices shape future planning.
A short question and answer session followed before the Board Chair closed the meeting.
Looking Ahead
EWHS reaffirmed its commitment to a future shaped by community input, strong partnerships, and continued investment in primary and acute care.
The organisation remains focused on ensuring timely, accessible health services across all age groups and all communities within the region.
Nationals’ make start on campaign towards government
THE Nationals have fired the starting gun on their 2026 State Election campaign, with Leader Danny O’Brien, Deputy Leader Emma Kealy and Shadow Ministers Tim Bull, Tim McCurdy and Melina Bath hitting the ground across the Ripon electorate last week.
Nationals MPs and volunteers in yellow campaign shirts were seen in St Arnaud, Maryborough, Ararat and Ballarat doorknocking, hosting listening posts, handing out information and waving signs.
Their message was clear – regional Victorians deserve better, and it’s time they received their fair share.
Deputy Leader of The Nationals, Emma Kealy, said the reception across the electorate showed a growing appetite for change.
“Whether it’s renewable energy projects and transmission lines, crumbling roads and potholes, in-
creasing crime or the cost of living getting harder, people across Ripon know they aren’t getting their fair share and want a new government that will provide the hope so many desperately need.”
Ms Kealy said. Under the State Government, Victorians are paying an additional $3 billion through the emergency services tax, households and small businesses are
being squeezed from every direction, and debt is on track to reach $194 billion – costing Victorians $21 million every single day in interest repayments alone.
Meanwhile, the independent Parliamentary Budget Office has revealed regional Victorians receive just 12 per cent of Labor’s infrastructure spending.
The Nationals say it is clear regional communities are being short-changed.
Current Labor Member for Ripon, Martha Haylett, continued to face criticism from locals for failing to stand up for the community — backing the controversial VicGrid land access laws that permit authorised officers onto private property without consent, supporting increases to the emergency services levy, and allowing the closure of the VicRoads facility in Maryborough.
“Regional communities need a
strong local champion who listens, fights for them on Spring Street and stands firm when it matters — not someone who pays lip-service at home and votes with Premier Allan in Parliament – the choice is clear, more of the same with a Labor-Greens government, or a fresh start with the Nationals and Liberals,” Ms Kealy said. “The Nationals are committed to delivering a better, stronger future for regional Victorians — one where their voice is respected, and one where they finally receive their fair share of investment.”
The Nationals have already pledged real cost-of-living relief through the scrapping of five taxes including the emergency services tax, overturning Labor’s land access laws, delivering new crime prevention strategies, and introducing a financial management plan to rein in Labor’s waste.
Volunteers Acknowledgment of Service recipients, Yvonne Templar (20 years) and Barry Robertson (15 years). Absent is Peter Milley (10 years).
Nationals campaign members at the Logan Pub.
TENDERS
RFT C26-001 – SSAC Heat Pump Installation
Northern Grampians Shire Council invites tenders for the supply and installation of electric heat pumps at Stawell Sports and Aquatic Centre, 49–51 Houston Street, Stawell. This project forms part of council’s commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency. The works include removal of existing gas boilers, installation of heat pumps and associated equipment, testing, commissioning, and training.
Tenders close 2pm, Friday 12 December 2025.
For more information and to download the tender documents, please visit the website: www.ngshire.vic.gov.au/tenders
BRENT McALISTER
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
EMPLOYMENT
Careers at Loddon Shire
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.
Cartage Truck Driver
• Full-time, permanent position
• An attractive salary range of $72,764.46 - $76,401.11 per annum plus employer superannuation
• Based in Council’s Shire Wide team
Systems Administrator
• Full-time, permanent position
• An attractive salary range of $100,154.60 - $111,273.24 per annum plus employer superannuation
• Based at the Wedderburn Office with flexible working arrangements available Applications for the positions above will close on Monday 15 December 2025 at 5pm.
Early Childhood Teacher
• Part-time, permanent position
• An attractive hourly rate of $39.34 - $58.96
• Based in Boort
Applications for the position above will close on Monday 26 January 2026 at 5pm.
Casual Maintenance Worker
• Based in Council’s Outdoor Works Department
• An attractive Hourly rate of $40.69
• Casual position
Applications for the positions above will close on Monday 29 June 2026 at 5pm.
Early Childhood Educator
• Casual position
• An attractive hourly rate of $33.96
• 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.
EMPLOYMENT
JOB VACANCIES
Campus Base Negotiable
Domiciliary Nurse
Donald
Home Care Support Worker
St Arnaud
Director of Operations
Deputy Maintenance Manager
Associate Nurse Unit Manager
Executive Assistant – Primary Care
Primary Care Administration Officer
Wycheproof District Nurse
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.
PUBLIC NOTICE
TIME TO ADAPT
Since our establishment in 1860 we have always included the St Arnaud Cemetery fees into our Accounts to lessen the burden on our customers to pay these funds prior to a Burial taking place.
Kell Funerals would like to publicly announce that as of 1st Sept 2025 we can no longer absorb the cost of St Arnaud Cemetery fees into our Funeral Accounts.
We are only a small business and with the cost of the St Arnaud Cemetery reflecting figures that are similar or more than a standard grave in Melbourne, Bendigo, Ballarat we can no longer absorb the cost until payment of a funeral which can exceed 2 months or more.
To be buried in the St Arnaud Lawn as of 1st Sept 2025
Purchase of Land $2156
Digging of Grave $2200
Extra foot for double grave $265
Plaque standard $715
Total $5336
2nd Burial $ $2871
The price difference for the Old Section of the Cemetery is $3992 (without a plaque or headstone)
2nd Burial $2200
It is common practice for Funeral Directors in the major towns that they refer families do go to the Cemetery after arranging the Funeral and pay the costs required for the Grave in their chosen Cemetery.
Sadly the City has caught up with the country and regretfully our practices will have to change.
COUNTRY FIRE AUTHORITY REGULATIONS 2025 - Schedule 6
Regulation 143(2)(a) NOTICE TO OWNERS OR OCCUPIERS OF LAND
To the owner/occupier or owners/occupiers of land described below.
A notice to Gianesh Kumai
To cut all grass, weeds and undergrowth on the whole property, including fence line, to a maximum height of 100mm not later than 10 December 2025 has been affixed on the following properties in accordance with section 41A(3) of the Country Fire Authority Act 1958.
QUEENS AVENUE ST ARNAUD
Date: 26 November 2025
Name and position: Kelly Boladeras, Municipal Fire Prevention Officer Fire Prevention Officer for Northern Grampians Shire Council.
You may lodge an objection to this notice under section 41B of the Country Fire Authority Act 1958 and appeal the outcome of that objection under section 41C of that Act.
LIONS CLUB OF ST. ARNAUD
Due to the reduced number of newspapers requiring collection, the Lions Cllub of St. Arnaud will cease collection of same. We have appreciated the support of the local communities of St. Arnaud, Navarre, and Landsborough.
Over many years, your support has enabled the club to assist other parts of the community with donations.
Thank you
John Beggs (Secretary)
The Lions Club of St. Arnaud with the support of St. Arnaud Solar encourage the local community of St. Arnaud to light up your homes with the spirit of Christmas. The Annual Christmas Lights Competition is open to all individual residents. To enter please send an email to johnbeggs2003@yahoo.com.au
- Secretary of St. Arnaud Lions Club. Judging will take place between the 15th and 18th December.
Winners will be announced at the Lions Christmas Procession on the 19th at around 8.30pm.
Friends of Mount Wycheproof Celebrate
International Mountain Day Sun. 14 Dec. from 10am
Guest Speaker - BBQ - Plaque Unveiling All Welcome. (refer to newspaper coverage for full details).
St Arnaud Carols at The Square Market Square (Behind the Town Hall)
Saturday 13th, Dec, 7:30pm
Please bring your own chairs, rugs etc
Please be seated by 7:15pm
Wet weather venue: RSL Hall, Raglan St. Contact: Andrew George Vision St Arnaud Ph: 0409 291 430
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
Nicola Kirk Physiotherapist
Over 17 years experience
Open Mon to Fri
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
DISTRICT CATHOLIC CHURCHES
East Wimmera Parish
BIRCHIP - Sunday December 7th 10.30am Live Stream out to churches without Mass
BOORT - Sunday December 7th
10.30am - Live Stream in BANYENA - No Mass
CHARLTON - Sunday December 7th
10.30
KELL FUNERALS
63 Napier Street, St. Arnaud 0400 451 432 or 5495 1108 136 Napier Street St. Arnaud NAFD
Est 1860
December 3rd
Alexandra Anderson
Jason Andison
Jasmine Harvey Alana McSwain
December 4th
Graeme Meade
Marley Rose O’Donnell
Melissa Weir
December 5th
Jack French
Suzanne Petrie
Neil Robinson (Mouse)
UNITING CHURCH
ST. ARNAUD / STUART MILL
Sunday 7th December
Worship Service at St. Arnaud 9.30am
Rev Bruce Gallacher. All Welcome.
PARISH OFFICE
Chris & Rob Batters
Pastorial Co-ordinators Enquiries: 5495 6223
December 6th
Maurie Hill
December 8th
Daniel Baumgartner
Lynette Fernandes
December 9th
Gabrielle Jorgensen
Ambrose McIntyre
Brady Tillig
10.30am - Live Stream in
DONALD - Sunday December 7th 8.30am - Mass
ST.ARNAUD - Saturday December 6th 7.00pm - Mass
WYCHEPROOF - Sunday December 7th
10.30am - Live Stream in
Parish Coordinator: Noeline Hogan 0476 617 976
‘The garden clean up specialists’
ARTS AND COMMUNITY
Big first few months for creative hub
Charlton’s newest cultural space, Mallee Creatives, continues to build momentum with the launch of its second exhibition, In All Dimensions, which opened on November 12.
The gallery and café, operated by Charlton Neighbourhood House and staffed entirely by volunteers, first opened its doors to the public on October 1, marking the occasion with a well-attended community celebration and the debut exhibition Nully’s Ark by Nullawil artist Sam McCarthy.
The official opening began with an Acknowledgment of Country from Kaylene Cossar, who spoke to the deep creative traditions that have always existed on this land:
“This has always been a place of story, culture and creativity. For tens of thousands of years, First Nations Peoples have expressed identity, shared knowledge and
connection through art, etched in the land, painted on rock, woven into objects and carried through song and dance,” she said.
“As we open Mallee Creatives, we honour that enduring tradition of creativity on Country, and we commit to ensuring this space continues to celebrate the stories and expressions that connect us all.”
Her words framed the opening with respect and purpose, honouring the cultural legacy into which Mallee Creatives now steps.
A Strong First Exhibition
Nully’s Ark proved a fitting launch exhibition, drawing enthusiastic crowds throughout October. Sam McArthur’s worksmirrors transformed into scenes of Charlton landmarks, cheekily reimagined beer cans featuring
North Central themes, hidden words woven through his linework, and a handful of delicately rendered bird pieces-captured the quirky charm and everyday beauty of regional life. The exhibition set a high standard for the gallery’s future programming.
Now Showing: In All Dimensions
On November 12, Mallee Creatives unveiled its second exhibition, In All Dimensions, featuring four artists whose backgrounds and practices bring a rich diversity of form, emotion and perspective to the space.
Darren Mills, a Charlton-based artist originally from South Africa, contributes expressive acrylic and graphite works that capture wildlife, portraits and landscape with depth and vibrancy.
Chris Fraser offers works shaped by years of practice and personal evolution, with pieces that explore colour, movement and the shifting emotional layers of her subjects.
Robert Watson brings decades of experience spanning Mildura, the Art Vault, and exhibitions across regional Australia, resulting in works grounded in story, technique and a deep respect for art history.
Chris Wyatt, whose career stretches back to the 1970s, presents striking oils and watercolours that probe the human condition. His work has appeared in multiple galleries and national prize exhibitions, including the Blake Prize.
Together, their works transform the gallery into a conversation of colour, line and space, an exhibition that truly lives up to its name.
A Space for Art, Coffee and Community
Visitors to Mallee Creatives are greeted not only by vibrant art, but also by the warm hospitality of a volunteer-run café, serving great coffee and simple countrystyle treats.
Shelves are stocked with local produce and handmade gifts, perfect for Christmas shopping while supporting regional makers.
Always Something New
Exhibitions at Mallee Creatives rotate every six to eight weeks, ensuring the space remains fresh, inspiring and worth returning to.
The next exhibition is scheduled to be installed before the January long weekend, offering a new experience for holiday travellers and locals alike.
Scholarships available thanks to Bendigo Bank
As Year 12 students across Australia await the arrival of their ATAR results, Bendigo Bank’s scholarship program is celebrating 19 years of providing life-changing education opportunities for students, with applications for the 2026 academic year now open.
The program consists of more than 70 Community Bank scholarships supporting local students, along with Bendigo Bank funded scholarships aimed at supporting rural, regional, agricultural and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. In 2025, $1.7
million in support was awarded to 348 first-year scholars and 141 continuing scholars.
Since 2006, Bendigo Bank and its Community Bank partners have assisted more than 2,300 students with scholarships valued at over $15 million dollars, supporting their academic, professional and personal growth.
The program is overseen by the Bank’s charitable arm, the Community Enterprise Foundation, with Bendigo Bank’s Directors contributing a portion of the funding of the scholarships funded by the Bank.
Bendigo Bank Chair Vicki Carter said the program was an important example of how the Bank delivers on its purpose to feed into the prosperity of its customers and the community.
“We understand the challenges some students face in accessing further education, particularly those in our regions who may need to relocate to attend their chosen place of study,” she said.
“Bendigo Bank’s scholarship program helps students overcome significant barriers to further education such as travel, accommodation costs and the rising
cost of living, which are among several important considerations for students planning the next stage of their education journey.
The scholarships include:
Regional and Rural Scholarship: 15 university scholarships of $6,500 per student, each year for two years. Up to six TAFE scholarships of $5,000 per student per year for up to two years.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Scholarship: Four scholarships of $6,500 per student per year for two years for those studying at either university or TAFE.
Agribusiness Scholarship:
Two university scholarships, $6,000 per student, per year for two years, and one TAFE scholarship, $3,000 per year for one year.
Robert Johanson Bendigo Bank Board Scholarship: $8,000 per year for two years.
Community Bank Scholarships: Around 70 Community Banks are participating in Bendigo Bank’s scholarship program offering scholarships for university, agricultural colleges, TAFE, and secondary school study. Applications close January 31.
You’re in for a wicked night at the theatre this weekend
HANG on to your witches’ hat as the concluding story of Elphaba (the wicked witch of the west) flies onto The Rex Theatre Charlton screen this coming weekend in “Wicked: For Good”.
The eagerly anticipated second part relating to the good and evil characters from the Wizard of Oz outlines how the Wicked Witch of the West, Elphaba now lives in exile in the Ozian forest.
By contrast, Glinda the Good resides at the palace in Emer-
ald City, reveling in the perks of fame and popularity.
Based on the highly lauded Broadway musical of the same name, “Wicked: For Good” (which in turn was sourced from Gregory Maguire’s far darker 1995 novel, “Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West.”) reunites the creative director Jon M. Chu with the spectacular returning ensemble cast.
This includes Ariana Grande and Cythia Erivo, with Jonathan
Bailey, Jeff Goldblum and Michelle Yeoh, as the final chapter of the untold story of the witches of Oz plays out. Stand-out performances by Grande and Erivo drive the momentum as more romance and deeper, darker themes evolve.
As an angry mob rises against the Wicked Witch, Glinda and Elphaba need to come together one final time. With their singular friendship now the determining of their futures, they need to
truly see each other, with honesty and empathy, if they are to change themselves, and all of Oz - for good.
A good escapist film to sit back and enjoy.
“Wicked: For Good” (PG 137 mins) screens this Saturday from 8pm, Sunday from 2pm and Tuesday, December 9 from 8pm.
Carols at the Rex
With Christmas just around the corner, “Carols at The Rex” sets
the festive mood onthis Sunday from 7.30pm. A night for the whole family, students from Charlton College and St. Joseph’s School add their own personal touches to the Christmas pageant, with the evening also featuring the Wedderburn Choir with some favourite melodies. Make it a special night, come dressed in festive fare and make sure the singing voice is primed for a carol spectacular.
Mildura Artist Chris Fraser (middle) discussing her work with Brigitta Beaty and Margaret- Anne Wright.
All generations enjoying the opening night of In All Dimensions.
Ladies’ sets integral to leader lunge
ST ARNAUD’S Ladies Doubles proved pivotal in Saturday’s North Central Lawn Tennis Association round eight fixture, with the side splitting the section 31 games apiece against Donald’s Avon team.
The hard-earned result provided vital support for St Arnaud’s overall victory as the club continues its push for top spot on the ladder.
With little separating the clubs in both Ladies and Mixed Doubles, it was the powerful Men’s Doubles unit of Sam Male, Jason Rowe, Rogan Hando, Matt Goode, Ben Batters and Aaron Sanderson that stamped its authority, winning the section 48–26 and securing a 120–88 games (9–1 points) triumph.
Three-set winners for St Arnaud were Sam Male, Jason Rowe, Aaron Sanderson, John Goode and Deb Borg. Kara Kara, however, endured a vastly different afternoon.
Severely undermanned with
several top players unavailable, the side faltered against the lower-ranked Birchip Wirrim outfit, which capitalised strongly on its home-court advantage.
Kara Kara’s only bright moment came with a narrow 44–42 Men’s Doubles win. Otherwise, Wirrim dominated, its formidable Ladies Doubles combination cruising to a decisive 56–18 result and the Mixed Doubles going the visitors’ way 51–43.
The final tally read 149–105 games (8–2 points), with Thomas Watts the sole Kara Kara player to claim three sets.
LADDER
Rogan Hando and Jason Rowe teamed up well for St Arnaud on Saturday.
Charlton pulled off a big upset in North Central bowls playing area against Wedderburn on Saturday. In the thick of play for Charlton were (from left) Mick O’Brien, Mark Hamley and Steve Harper. NCN PHOTO
Dunne spears across the pegs
A RETURN to form by the Mildura-owned pacer Bizzness Class saw the six-year-old claim a Stawell Cup heat at Horsham on Monday.
The gelding, owned by Pudd MacDonald and Sue Button and trained by Michael Gadsden, had not won since mid-July but made full use of gate five when Charlton driver Luke Dunne speared it across to the pegs.
After handing up to favourite Hez All Rock, Dunne was able to angle into clear running in the home straight and the pair sprinted home like “a B-Double down Dundas Street,” scoring by 4.9 metres in a slick one minute 55.8 seconds for the 2200 metres.
Although there was little joy for the McNaulty and Torney stables at Horsham, both camps bounced back with winners at Ballarat on Thursday night.
A newcomer to the McNaulty yard, Gallico, broke through impressively in the Maiden Pace. Driven aggressively early by Jordan Leedham, the three-year-old circled the field to sit outside the leader before asserting its superiority in the straight to win by 13.1 metres.
By The Storm Inside, Gallico had eight starts for four placings before being purchased by a large ownership group: N Holt, L McAllister, B Geary, A Collins, K Fitzgerald, H Bugge, L Holt, L Fitzgerald, P Brown, T Brown, L Polkinghorne, J Donaldson and N Holt.
Trainer-driver Scott Torney also tasted success with the ultraconsistent Tension Seeker, the 12-year-old mare he races with niece Zoe.
Except for her tough run at Horsham, she had been knocking on the door and was duly rewarded.
The winning form continued on Friday night at Melton, with brothers Shaun and Jason McNaulty producing another strong result — this time with Pesci, a firm $1.70 favourite from barrier nine.
Driven by James Herbertson, Pesci was still seventh at the 800 metres before unleashing a sustained three-wide run in a 56-second last half, getting up by 1.1 metres in a tight three-way finish.
The gelding recorded the fastest 1720 metres time of the meeting, clocking one minute 53.6 seconds on a rain-affected track.
The Stawell Club battled poor weather for their Cup meeting on Sunday, but both features remained competitive.
The opening event — an up-
to-49 trot — went the way of Lady Suspicious, driven by Peter Sanderson of Korong Vale for Cudgee trainer John Meade. Despite form of 9-6-9, the fouryear-old mare stunned punters, starting at $126 and returning $187.50 on the tote. Charlton also figured prominently at Stawell with Me And Zac winning the Maiden Trot at just its fourth start.
Owned by Gavan Holt, trained by Zac Steenhuis and driven by James Herbertson, the threeyear-old is by Pastor Stephen out of NZ mare La Tonneralla, whose progeny include Jilliby Babavska and Maestro, winners of twentyfive races between them.
The Charlton Harness Racing Club also held its AGM last week, welcoming Kyle Jenkyn to the committee and Lori Mills as incoming secretary. The club farewelled outgoing secretary Troy Heenan
New Charlton committee member Kye Jenkyn with incoming Secretary Lori Mills and long serving member Doug Gretgrix who is stepping down from the committee (top) and Stawell winner Me And Zac with driver James Herbertson, trainer Zac Steenhuis and owner Gavan Holt.
and long-serving committee member Doug Gretgrix, who has contributed widely, including serving as Secretary from 1986–1988 and President from 1994–1996.
Burkes land big haul with 25 yellowbelly
COMPETITION three of the St Arnaud Angling Club series was conducted at Laanecoorie last weekend with ideal conditions producing an excellent haul.
Thirteen competitors landed a combined 33 yellowbelly measuring a total of fourteen metres.
Riley Burke enjoyed a strong weekend, landing 10 yellowbelly, the largest stretching 46.7 centimetres.
Aidan Burke followed with six yellowbelly, topping out at 46 centimetres, while Luke Ezard recorded a 44.5-centimetre catch.
Sandy Ezard contributed two yellowbelly, her best
measuring 39.5 centimetres, and Leanne Burke produced one of the standout performances with nine yellowbelly, including the weekend’s biggest fish at 49 centimetres.
Connor added four yellowbelly, the best at 39 centimetres, and Ned Ezard landed a solid 40-centimetre specimen.
Weekend winners Connor Tucker (left) and Leanne Burke
Racing heads to Horsham this Sunday for Cup day before returning to Charlton Park on Monday for the first of two December meetings.
Country rolls into pennant top four
ROUND nine of North Central Division One pennant bowls proved costly for St Arnaud but delivered a major boost for the Country Club, whose strong win over Boort lifted them into the top four for the first time this season.
Wycheproof’s solid victory pushed St Arnaud down to fifth place, while Charlton swept all 12 points to move off the bottom of the ladder.
Wycheproof began strongly, leading St Arnaud 14–9 after five ends and maintaining control throughout.
St Arnaud’s lone bright spot came through the rink of Steve Zsigmond, Glendon Hancock, Greg McNally and Kerryn Dyke, who rallied from 7–15 down after 10 ends to edge ahead 19–18 five ends later before going on to claim the club’s only win.
The quartet of Ashley Dyke, Phil McRae, Col Marchment and Darren Shepherd clawed their way to a two-shot lead after 20 ends, but a late surge from J. Grylls’ rink saw the visitors concede four of the final ends.
Meanwhile, Terry McSwain, Allan Welsh, Maurie Wood and Tony Marland were outplayed from the early stages, trailing 1–7 after five ends and 2–12 after ten as E. Rays’ four powered to a decisive, match-securing win.
In Division Two, Wycheproof retained top spot on the ladder after winning all three rinks against St Arnaud.
This Saturday: Donald Golf v St Arnaud Country Club v Donald Wycheproof v Wedderburn Charlton v Boort.
A perfect evening of bowls
last Thursday began with a lighthearted challenge, with players attempting to draw nearest to the ditch on two occasions to win boxes of chocolates generously donated by Brian Eccles.
Peter Duncan and Keith McLennan were among those eager to take on the challenge.
Leanne Pritzl claimed the next prize of the night, earning recognition for delivering the first toucher.
The winning triples team, finishing seven shots up after 12 ends of enjoyable play, was Phil McRae, Jason Barron and Rolf Wacker.
A relative newcomer to the game, it marked Rolf Wacker’s first win of a free Country Kitchen pizza, adding extra excitement to the result. Runners-up, six shots up, were Maurie Wood, Doug Walker and Michael Bearder.
An honourable mention went to Kell Bibby, Peter Duncan and Brad Chester, who were five-shot winners.
Tomorrow night — Thursday, December 4 — marks the final round of Twilight Bowls before the Christmas break. Competition will resume on Thursday, January 22.
Country does trick
St Arnaud Country Club travelled to Boort for Saturday’s pennant game, facing blustery and testing conditions that made it difficult for bowlers to consistently find their preferred line and track.
At the lunch break the Division 2 contest remained tight, with all rinks close aside from one St Ar-
NORTH CENTRAL PENNANT RESULTS
Saturday
Division 1 Boort 60-0 lost to St Arnaud Country 7212. G. Carrall, L. Maxted, K. Walton, K. Ritchie (s) lost to S. Atkinson, A. Marland, J. Nevill, D. Mullins (s) 19-25. D. Gibson, G. Hudson, J. Gibson, T. Moresi (s) lost to D. Moulday, R. Pole, M. Esmore, T. McDonald (s) 21-26. K. Birt, L. Newsome, C. Newsome, S. Morris (s) lost to F. Rodger, L. Lynch, J. Abbott, W. Rodger (s) 20-21.
Donald 47-0 lost to Donald Golf 75-12. M. Kelly, W. Hegarty, N. Barber, H. Wingfield (s) lost to G. Stopps, R. Adams, R. Reseigh, G. Rigby (s) 17-19. I. McEwen, M. Harris, L. Morgan, N. Hollis (s) lost to L. Kelly, A. Dionisopoulos, D. Peake, D. Pettifer (s) 14-27. M. Quick, J. Subprom, B. Milne, K. Adamson (s) lost to W. Livingston, B. Murray, S. Hollis, P. Hibberd (s) 16-29. St Arnaud 75-2 lost to Wycheproof 89-10. T. Marland, M. Wood, A. Welsh, T. McSwain (s) lost to D. Nicholls, N. Coles, P. Connolly, E. Rayes (s) 16-34. K. Dyke, G. McNally, G. Hancock, S. Zsigmond (s) d M. Nicholls, R. Coles, D. Groves, J. McKay (s) 34-27. D. Shepherd, C. Marchment, P. McRae, A. Dyke (s) lost to A. Jones, A. Coatsworth, P. Wellington, J. Grylls (s) 25-28. Wedderburn 64-2 lost to Charlton 82-10. R. Tonkin, L. Holt, A. Caserta, L. Witham (s) lost to P. Watts, J. Cox, L. Southwell, K. Willey (s) 22-37. R. Guelfo, A. Holt, B. Montebello, A. Jackson (s) d S. Harper, D. Finlay, M. O’Brien, W. Southwell (s) 22-21. A. Roberts, S. Steel, B. Hargreaves, N. Holt (s) lost to M. Hamley, R. Porter, D. Gretgrix, S. Perry (s) 20-24. Ladder: Wedderburn 70, Donald Golf 67, Wycheproof 64, St Arnaud Country 60, St Arnaud 58, Donald 25, Charlton 24, Boort 16. Division 2 Boort 74-10 d St Arnaud Country 50-2. I. Allison, P. Gould, J. Hampson, G. Smith (s) d N. Bales, D. McAllister, G. White, J. Needs (s) 21-20. G. Charles, L. Cameron, S. Rollinson, Y. Cashen (s) lost to G. Watts, P. Marland, T. Coloe, D. Goode (s) 21-23. S. Polack, A. Gould, P. Waters, J. Earl (s) d P. Jorgensen, K. Pole, P. Mullins, C. Webb (s) 32-7.
naud team holding a handy lead. In Division 1, two St Arnaud rinks were in front while the third sat slightly behind.
After the break the visitors adjusted well to the challenging wind. The Division 1 sides settled quickly, extended their advantage, and finished strongly to secure the overall win in tricky
Donald 51-0 lost to Donald Golf 84-12. C. Perry, K. Wyllie, P. Wyllie, J. Wood (s) lost to B. Brasier, B. Bayles, P. Raynes, S. O’Shea (s) 13-33. S. Robertson, M. Hollis, W. Meyer, D. Romeo (s) lost to S. Robertson, M. Hollis, W. Meyer, D. Romeo (s) 20-24. A. McEwen, J. Bishop, M. McEwen, E. Adams (s) lost to M. Frank, J. Slater, B. Dixon, G. Wood (s) 18-27. St Arnaud 66-0 lost to Wycheproof 84-12. P. Duncan, J. Prendegast, T. Amos, P. Micallef (s) lost to P. Bagley, J. McLean, P. Coles, D. Denney (s) 19-24. C. Cheesman, M. McRae, G. McIntyre, L. Goodwin (s) lost to R. Grylls, V. Grant, S. Wellington, P. Allan (s) 22-33. J. Barron, C. Coates, B. Eccles, L. Goddard (s) lost to J. Ritchie, A. Grylls, G. Coatsworth, S. Barratt (s) 25-27. Wedderburn 78-10 d Charlton 63-2. N. White, M. Guelfo, D. Stephenson, L. Standfield (s) d Z. Irwin, G. Thomson, G. Bateson, E. Rosewall (s) 32-19. R. Ashley, R. Hall, C. Mills, J. Grant (s) d R. Gahan, D. Buxton, B. Bailey, J. Headon (s) 31-19. B. Catherine, A. Benaim, A. Noordennen, G. Burnside (s) lost to B. Chester, G. Barnard, B. Laffin, K. North (s) 15-25. Ladder: Wycheproof 71, Wedderburn 64, Donald Golf 58, St Arnaud 56, Boort 53, St Arnaud Country 50, Donald 24, Charlton 8.
Midweek
Charlton 88-12 d St Arnaud 47-0. G. Bateson, R. Porter, M. Hamley, K. North (s) d H. Stevenson, M. McIntyre, S. McIntyre, L. Goodwin (s) 27-19. E. Rosewall, D. Gretgrix, J. Headon, K. Willey (s) d A. Tyler, D. Ostarcevic, M. Hufer, P. McRae (s) 23-15. J. Ong, J. Cox, D. McCallum, L. Southwell (s) d A. McNally, M. McRae, P. Micallef, D. Goddard (s) 38-13. Donald Golf 74-10 d Donald 60-2. C. Stopps, M. Frank, J. Hollis, S. O’Shea (s) d J. Subprom, M. Hollis, M. Quick, M. Kelly (s) 26-19. D. Adams, S. Donnellon, B. Dixon, P. Hibberd (s) lost to J. Wood, E. Adams, I. McEwen, B. Milne (s) 18-28. S. Evans, E. Brasier, G. Stopps, G. Rigby (s) d A. McEwen, M. McEwen, J. Bishop, L. Morgan (s) 30-13. Boort 77-12 d Wedderburn 53-0. G. Charles, Y. Cash-
conditions.
St Arnaud Country Club travelled to Wycheproof for the midweek pennant fixture, with bowlers facing ordinary weather and blustery winds that made line and length difficult to master.
Despite the challenging conditions, all three rinks remained close throughout the open-
en, P. Baker, T. Moresi (s) d R. Little, J. Murnane, R. Hall, J. Grant (s) 21-18. P. Gould, S. Polack, D. Gibson, J. Gibson (s) d L. Standfield, C. Mills, S. Steel, A. Jackson (s) 24-19. L. Newsome, G. Tweddle, J. Earl, W. Keenan (s) d L. Don, S. Standfield, J. Matthews, A. Roberts (s) 32-16. Wycheproof 81-12 d St Arnaud Country 61-0. L. Nicholls, V. Grant, A. Jones,
ing stages, with little separating the sides at the lunch break.
After the restart, Wycheproof adjusted best to the tricky track, gradually edging ahead across the board. St Arnaud worked hard to stay in touch.
But the home side finished stronger to secure the overall win in testing conditions.
M. Nicholls (s) d L. Ab-
bott, C. Bond, P. Goode, H. Esmore (s) 33-28. C. Jones, D. Nicholls, H. Grylls, J. Grylls (s) d D. Fullarton, G. Fullarton, A. Marland, R. Pole (s) 24-14. A. Coatsworth, J. McLean, L. Milburn, D. Groves (s) d Y. Templar, S. Wright, L. Moulday, D. Moulday (s) 24-19. Ladder: Donald Golf 64, Charlton 51, Wycheproof 49, Boort 44, St Arnaud 40, Donald 38, Wedderburn 26, St Arnaud Country 24.
Twilight bowls winners Rolf Wacker, Phil McRae and Jason Barron(above) and the action on Saturday.
LIGHTNING FORCE
THE LIGHTNING Bolts returned home from the 2025 Tri State Games in Portland with bulging medal tallies, big smiles and plenty of stories to tell, after six actionpacked days of friendly competition.
Running from November 9 to 15, the annual event brings together athletes of all abilities from New South Wales, South Australia and Victoria, and this year the Bolts travelled from St Arnaud with a team of eight competitors supported by four dedicated volunteers.
Festivities kicked off on Sunday evening with a warm welcome event on Henty Beach, followed on Monday by the Parade to the foreshore and the Official Opening, where every athlete proudly received a participation medal.
Indoor sports opened the competition on Monday at the Portland Indoor Sports Stadium, where Chantelle Duncan set the tone early with a silver in the Basketball Throw.
Tuesday’s aquatics program at the Portland Leisure and Aquatics Centre battled wind and rain, but the heated pool kept spirits high—and so did the results.
Liam McSwain claimed bronze in the 25m Freestyle, Shaun Pavey took bronze in both Pool Walk and Barbell, and Duncan added to her haul with gold in both the 25m Breaststroke and 25m Freestyle.
Jodie Collins picked up an equal silver in Pool Walk, Karl Vanderlinden struck gold in Barbell, Michael Bearder claimed gold in Pool Walk, and Bradley Chester added a silver in Pool Walk and 25m Freestyle.
Wednesday offered a wellearned rest day before competition resumed on Thursday with Athletics, proudly supported by major sponsor Are-Able.
Track events filled the morning at Alexandra Park, with field
events in the afternoon—and more medal success for the Bolts. Pavey earned silver in the 25m Walk; Duncan dominated with gold in the 100m, 200m and Tennis Ball Throw; Collins won gold in the 25m Walk, achieved a PB in the 50m Walk and added silver in the Tennis Ball Throw.
McSwain collected gold in the 50m Walk and silver in the Tennis Ball Throw; Damien Yole secured silver in the 50m Walk, 50m Run and Tennis Ball Throw; Vanderlinden claimed a PB in the
50m Walk; and Chester soared to gold in the 50m Hurdles. Friday’s team-based fun events on Bridgewater Beach saw the Bolts take to Beach Volleyball. No points were awarded—just plenty of laughs.
Evening dinners from Monday to Friday were hosted at the Bundarra School Stadium, with Thursday’s Mad Hatters Tea Party and Friday’s planned Beach Party.
A late switch back to a Gala dinner left many athletes still arriving in colourful beach gear,
much to everyone’s amusement.
At Friday night’s awards presentation, Mildura claimed the overall points trophy, but the Lightning Bolts celebrated a major honour of their own—winning the Community Inclusion Award, recognising their strong engagement with local sporting clubs.
Star athlete Chantelle Duncan took home the Best Female in A Grade trophy and also earned a gold medal for Sportsmanship. Across all events, athletes em-
braced the spirit of camaraderie that defines the games - friendly, upbeat and full of memorable moments.
Also representing St Arnaud as team Thunderstorm, Doug Walker and Faye Needs earned bronze medals in the carpet bowls, with Needs also securing gold in Assisted Pool Walk, bronze in Assisted Track Walk, and bronze in the Bean Bag Throw.
Competing individually, Stuart Pledger proudly received a participation medal.
The Lightning Bolt team from St Arnaud came home with a mountain of success, winning an array of medals at the Tri-State Games in Portland last month.
It was all smiles from the athletes as they went through the event.
The team enjoyed a night off at the Gala dinner.
The Lightning Bolts team were proud of their efforts from the event.
