WE’LL BE BACK
WIMMERA, Mallee and Grampians farmers have taken to the steps of Parliament House in Melbourne for the second time in months.
They protested a range of State Government policies which Gerald Feeny says have been developed in haste.
Organised by Rupanyup farmer Andrew Weidemann, with Victorian Liberal Party leader Brad Battin and Victorian Nationals leader Danny O’Brien in attendance, as well as Ararat Rural City councillor Rob Armstrong and landowners including Marnoo’s Ben Duxson, Kanya’s Marcia
McIntyre and St Arnaud’s Gerald Feeney.
The big issue being addressed was the National Electricity VicGrid Stage 2 Reform Bill 2025 which would grant authorised officers from VicGrid the power to enter private property without the consent of landowners.
Also being targeted were mining operations proposed on farming land and the State Government’s controversial emergency services tax that saw thousands protest on Parliament in May..
Rural people are feeling targeted said Mr Weidemann.
“It’s all because of this government’s attack on rural communities, but also Victorians in gener-
al with this proposed legislation that they’re talking about bringing into play.
“We will be back at some point because we can see this government just is not listening, and the only way it’s going to listen is through people power and groups forming and being united.”
“We’re starting to break down that barrier – it’s not just about rural Victoria, it’s about people here in the city as well.”
Ms Jane Foreman from the Family First Party said at the protest, that it was a powerful reminder that country and city Victorians alike are waking up to the cost of the Allan Government’s reckless green agenda.
“The $12,210 fines, lock cutting powers and emergency services tax hikes are just the beginning. Labor is turning Victoria into a green dictatorship,” she said.
The Nationals will also fight the Allan Labor Government’s proposed legislation that would allow government officials and transmission companies to enter private farmland without consent – and fine landholders who object.
The Nationals’ Member for Lowan, Emma Kealy, said the VicGrid Stage 2 Reform Bill would hand unprecedented powers to VicGrid and authorised officers, allowing them to forcibly access private property, cut locks, break
gates, and issue penalties for resistance.
Under the bill, landholders who obstruct access could face fines of more than $12,000, while businesses could be fined more than $48,000.
Ms Kealy said Labor was steamrolling farmers in its blind rush to renewables.
“Labor expects our region to do the heavy lifting for the state when it comes to hosting more renewables, but all we get in return are more potholes, cuts to health services, and a shortage of affordable housing. Now, we also get our property rights trampled, too,” she said.
CONTINUED PAGE 3
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EDITORIAL AND ADVERTISING
Phone (03) 5495 1055 Email ncn@iinet.net.au
Vinnies wants more volunteers
THE Vinnies’ team has put the sign out: Volunteers wanted!
Leanne Shinners, Monica Martin, Chris Dyson and Jane Abbruzzese hope to be joined by more community-people people lending a hand in the Napier Street op-shop.
They have put out the call for extra Monday and Tuesday vol-
unteers, the shop’s footpath Aframe spruiking the word.
The dedicated quartet say they love the social side of working at Vinnies - the people they meet and the experience that they gain.
“Volunteering at Vinnies gives you a social outlet, time to smile and have a chat as well as sense
of purpose,” the four said between stacking latest donations on the store’s racks and shelves.
“Vinnies St Arnaud offers a great variety of homewares, fashion and electrical goods.... you’ll love what you find at Vinnies.”
Volunteers open the shop six days a week.
IN BRIEF
Al Viney – Paralympic Rower Presentation
ST ARNAUD Secondary College Year 7 - 10 and including some 11 and 12 year students, attended a presentation from Al Viney who is a Paralympic rower. Al went through what she has overcome and sacrificed to achieve ultimate success, which was a very powerful story. Reports from the session from students and staff have been very positive and Al was touched to receive a College mug from College Vice Captain Ben Greenaway.
Man Cave, Flourish Girl
THE Man Cave for boys and Flourish Girl for girls programs were attended by Years 9 and 10 students.
These programs are aimed at promoting positive mental health and are very popular with the students.
This year again, students were challenged about the way they think, the way they interact with others, and how they can support those around them.
Man remanded
A MAN charged following an alleged shooting in St Arnaud last week has been remanded to appear in Horsham Magistrates Court in October. Robert Wallace faces charges including reckless conduct endangering serious injury.
Stylish & Sustainable 4-Bedroom Family Home in the Heart of St Arnaud
14 LONG STREET, ST ARNAUD
Positioned in the charming township of St Arnaud, this beautifully presented brick veneer home offers the ideal combination of comfort, practicality, and energy efficiency. From its tiled roof to its thoughtfully designed interiors, this property is the perfect sanctuary for families, professionals, or savvy investors.
● Spacious Family Living: Featuring four generously sized bedrooms, all with built-in robes, this home offers plenty of space for the growing family, guests, or a home office setup. Each room is designed for peace and comfort.
● Two Contemporary Bathrooms: Eliminate the morning rush with two well-appointed bathrooms, each featuring modern fixtures and finishes for a touch of everyday luxury.
● Year-Round Climate Control: Stay comfortable in every season with multiple split system heating and cooling units throughout the home, complemented by underfloor heating for cozy winter mornings.
●Excellent Outdoor Functionality: Rear access provides added convenience for vehicle entry or garden maintenance. A spacious carport and large shed offer ample storage and workspace options.
●Energy-Efficient Living: Benefit from a 16-panel Solax solar system, helping to reduce energy costs while supporting sustainable living.
● Enhanced Security & Comfort: Electric roller shutters on windows provide added security, insulation, and climate control.
● Prime Location: Ideally located close to schools, local shops, and the hospital, ensuring everyday essentials are within easy reach.
●This is a rare opportunity to secure a move-in-ready home that ticks all the boxes. Space, efficiency, and convenience-all set in a welcoming rural community.
Vinnies volunteers Jane Abbruzzese, Monica Martin, Leanne Shinners and Chris Dyson stock the shelves at the Napier Street Store on Friday. NCN PHOTO
Peeking into the future
LAST week, St Patrick’s Primary School welcomed some very special visitors.
As part of the “Peek into Prep” session, kindergarten children were invited to come and have a look around the school and get a little taste of what school life is
like at St Pat’s. This relaxed and friendly visit was all about giving the children (and their families) a chance to see what a day at school might look like.
The little visitors’ explored classrooms, met some of the wonderful teachers, and even
joined in a few fun activities designed just for them.
It wasn’t about starting school just yet—this was simply a chance to ease into the idea of “big school” and get a feel for the environment in a gentle and welcoming way.
There were plenty of smiles, a few proud waves from parents, and lots of excitement as the children looked around their future learning space.
St Pat’s loved having them and can’t wait to welcome them back for more sessions soon.
Haylett voting against community: McCracken
RIPON MP Martha Haylett, has sensationally turned her back on the community she represents by voting in favour of the Government’s National Electricity (Victoria) Amendment (VicGrid Stage 2 Reform) Bill 2025, said Western Victorian Region MP Joe McCracken.
The legislation seeks to allow authorised officers (appointed by the Minister) to undertake involuntary, forceful entry onto farms and private land, cutting locks, breaking gates, and imposing massive fines for those who object.
The scale of penalties introduced by the Bill is significant, with fines rising to as high as $12,210.60 for individuals,and $48,842.40 for body corporates.
It comes after a rally of the steps of State Parliament on Wednesday this week, where over 1,000 country people protested against the legislation.
Mr McCracken said “Ms Haylett has completely turned her back on her own community and the people she is supposed to represent.
“Instead of standing up for her own community, she sat quietly in state Parliament and voted to support the legislation.
“It’s weak, it’s gutless, and it shows a
complete disregard for farmers and rural communities she is supposed to represent.
“No wonder people are angry and frustrated — they’ve been totally gaslit.
“What’s so disappointing is that Ms Haylett has been giving false hope to her electorate, giving the impression she is listening, takes on board concerns, and actively represents her constituents.
“But when the time came to make a difference, Ms Haylett chose to allow the Government to bulldoze through her own communities.”
This isn’t the first time Ms Haylett has betrayed her community. Earlier in the year, Ms Haylett supported the Victorian Government’s Emergency Services Tax, which disproportionately impacts farmers and rural communities.
“Ms Haylett supported the Emergency Services Tax — hitting farming hard during a drought. Now she supports taking away their land rights,” Mr McCracken said.
“Does Ms Haylett and the Labor party realise that punching down on farmers is destroying regional communities?”
“Without farmers, there is no food,” Mr McCracken said.
Protest against Government haste
FROM PAGE 1
“Instead of backing regional Victorians during one of the toughest seasons, this government is threatening them with fines and coercing them instead of consulting them.
“Energy infrastructure is important, but Labor’s desperate push to roll out renewable energy projects has crossed a dangerous line.”
The speakers did any excellent job accord-
ing to Gerald Feeny.
“But the government has switched off.
“They are painted into a corner and now are bullying rural Victoria”.
“Bruce Mountain, the inaugural Director of the Victoria Energy Policy Centre, said that we need to ‘do things easier’.
“There is an alternative to doing grand schemes. There are other ways to make power, but not other ways to make food.”
Farmers’ voice key to Victorian ‘State of the State’ survey
THE Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) is urging farmers and regional Victorians to have their say on the biggest issues and opportunities facing their communities through the first ever State of the State: Farmer Priorities Survey. VFF President Brett Hosking said the VFF-led survey comes at a time when frustration in farming communities is reaching boiling point.
$600M research uplift offers growers once-ina-lifetime impact
OVER the next decade, Australian grain growers will benefit from a $600 million increase in “blue-sky” strategic research and capacity building with the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) earmarking $60 million per year to deliver once-in-alifetime transformational changes for the industry. It comes as GRDC has released the findings of an expert, independent review, showing the organisation was well placed to increase its research, development and extension (RD&E) investment to deliver greater returns and unlock new breakthroughs for growers.
Youngsters have a taste of school at St Patrick’s last week
Northern Grampians Shire Council
COMMUNITY UPDATES
COMMUNITY GRANTS DISTRIBUTED
Nine groups and not-for-profit organisations have received a share of almost $37,000 in funding through council’s 2025 Community Grants Program. Among this year’s recipients is St Arnaud Citizens Band, which has received $5000 towards its floor restoration project. The project will involve replacing worn and unsafe flooring in the kitchen and trophy room and is set to be completed before the band celebrates its 150 anniversary in October. People can visit www.ngshire.vic.gov.au/Residents/Grants/2025-CommunityGrants-Program-Recipients for more information.
th
PLANS OPEN FOR YOUR FEEDBACK
Council's next four-year Council Plan and Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan, along with the next 10-year asset and financial plans, are available for community feedback. The three plans form part of an integrated planning approach that sets the agenda for the current council term. Any person wishing to make a feedback submission on any of the proposed plans must do so in writing by 5pm on Friday, August 22, 2025. You can visit www.ngshire.vic.gov.au/Projects-andConsultation/Have-Your-Say/Council-Financial-and-AssetPlans-Open-for-community-feedback to view the plans and provide feedback online.
ROCK UP TO PICKLEBALL AND HAVE FUN
Following the success of a Rock Up to Pickleball session at St Arnaud Sports Centre, the fun is set to continue. Come along and see what the fuss is about on Wednesdays at 10am. The sessions are free and equipment is provi ded. Pickleball is an easy sport to pick up and not only will it get you moving, it’s a great social outing too.
All submissions will be carefully reviewed by council in September. Amendments to the draft plans may be made in response to feedback where appropriate, however not all submissions will result in changes for reasons outlined on our website.
All three plans are scheduled to be endorsed by councillors at a council meeting on Mo nday, October 6, 2025.
Feedback can also be provided in writing to: Chief Executive Officer, Northern Grampians Shire Council, PO Box 580, Stawell, VIC, 3380.
Tourism and events position: We are looking for a part-time tourism and events lead (temporary until October 2026) to spearhead marketing initiatives to increase tourism across the shire. You can visit www.ngshire.vic.gov.au/Careers for more information, including how to apply by Monday, August 11, along with other employment opportunities with council.
Next council meeting: Monday, September 1 in the Council Chamber, Pleasant Creek Historic Precinct, Stawell 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.
Shopping for new street vibrancy
SIX businesses in St Arnaud will receive a helping hand to improve the vibrancy of their shopfronts, stimulate economic growth, and enhance the overall look and feel of the town.
Northern Grampians Shire Council is delivering the Shopfront Improvement Program in St Arnaud this year after a successful pilot program in Stawell in 2024.
Mayor Karen Hyslop said six businesses were selected to participate in the St Arnaud program, based on their need and desire for improvement.
“The program garnered great interest from businesses in Napier Street and connecting side streets,” she said. “We had 17 businesses submit an expression of interest, so it was an incredibly competitive process for the six available spots.
“We hope to deliver this program again in St Arnaud in the future, given the amount of interest from businesses seeking support to improve.”
The six businesses chosen by the assessment panel are Ramjac,
St Arnaud Books, Country Kitchen, St Arnaud Community Resource Centre, Top of the Town Beauty Salon and The Bible Museum and Butterfly Centre.
Pop Creative Collective, which ran a visual merchandising workshop in St Arnaud in June, will work with the selected businesses to improve their shopfront presentation through new branding, signs, painting, window displays and more. .
Pop Creative’s Ms Lee started the one-on-one process with program participants last week.
“It has been great to speak with each of the businesses and hear their business journey, what drives them and what they want to achieve,” she said.
“Connecting with them helps us to create their shopfront improvements and inspires us to provide our best work, which will benefit the whole St Arnaud streetscape.
“We have been blown away with what St Arnaud has to offer – it has been a wonderful experience learning about the town and its many treasures.”
Top of The Town Beauty Salon’s Meagan Harvey said she applied for the program because she thought it provided St Arnaud businesses with a fantastic opportunity.
“It will be great to have a bit
of a revamp and it’s great working with the Pop Creative Collective team. The process so far has been so much fun and the ideas are great. Thank you to Northern Grampians Shire Council for the opportunity,” she said.
Rate notices with tax grab highlighted
RURAL Councils Victoria has moved to make sure ratepayers know exactly how much the Victorian Government’s controversial new emergency services tax is costing them.
RCV has produced a guide to rates notice template to help councils clearly show ratepayers which charges are actually Victorian Government requirements when rate notices are mail out this month,.
The tax is expected to drain tens of millions of dollars out of rural municipalities alone, though the Government has announced a 12-month reprience for drought affected zones.
The tax came into effect on July 1 with local government mandated to collect the tax on behalf of the State Government despite many councils opposing it.
Northern Grampians Shire rates notices, to be delivered from mid-August, will feature a new structure this financial year to help ratepayers differentiate between council fees, including general rates and rubbish, and State Government tax.
Mayor Karen Hyslop said despite the widespread protesting of the tax, which replaces
the Fire Services Property Levy, ratepayers were mandated to pay it.
“It is important to understand that we don’t have any control over how the money our residents pay towards their rate notices is distributed,” she said.
“Legally, council is obligated to pay a portion of your rates money to the State Government. So, while the ESVF tax amount is clearly differentiated from council’s general rates and kerbside collection charges on your rates notice, it isn’t possible to charge the ESVF separately.
“Ratepayers would also risk falling into arrears, which council is then legally obligated to retrieve, and it will cost them more in the long run.”
Cr Hyslop said under the direction of the State Government, the levy would be applied to all council rates notices, however, rebates were available for volunteers of the Country Fire Authority and Victorian State Emergency Service.
“We have also had some success with the lobbying we have done for the farming community, which was to be hardest hit by the
new levy,” she said. “The government has agreed to cap the levy at the 2024/25 rate for primary production properties this financial year. It’s a small win, but the concern is what happens after that.”
“Our council has joined many others in protesting the ESVF due to our concerns about residents’ capacity to pay, council’s ability to collect it and the region’s alreadystressed economy,” she said.
“We will continue to advocate for a fairer way to fund emergency services, however, councils are currently mandated to collect the ESVF,” Cr Hyslop said.
“All money collected through ESVF charges will go directly to the State Revenue Office – no ESVF money will be retained by council.”
Buloke Shire has redesigned its rates notice to highlight clearly the changes being imposed upon ratepayers by the State Government. Buloke have also ensured that the collection method is clear on the back of the notice, being as per the legislation, Council are required under law to collect the levy as part of the collection of general rates.
No Licence, goodbye car A St Arnaud man, 22, come off second best when he drove a vehicle with no number plates in the St Arnaud area at 2:00am on July 21. Police viewing surveillance footage were able to quickly identify the vehicle and driver who police allege has never held a licence. Police attended his residence and had a chat with him, also seizing the vehicle for 30 days at a cost of $2575. The male will receive a summons to attend court to explain to the magistrate as to why he was driving a vehicle without a licence, driving an unregistered vehicle, and driving a vehicle with no number plates.
Property Stolen .Offenders forced entry to buildings at a rural property on Sutherland Road, St Arnaud North overnight on July 19 where a number of car parts and tools were stolen.
Window damaged A male was arrested and interviewed by Police after breaking the front glass window of a Napier Street St Arnaud shop at approximately 12:00am on July 22.
Search warrant Police executed a search warrant on a Bowen Street St Arnaud property on July 28 where a quantity of illicit drugs was seized.
Suspended driver Police intercepted a vehicle driving on Jones Street St Arnaud at approximately 2:30pm on July 29. The 52-year-old male driver from Lexton told police he was aware he wasn’t allowed to drive but did so anyway. He will receive a summons to attend court and explain his actions to a magistrate.
Drugs seized A random intercept by police of a vehicle on Napier Street St Arnaud at about 1:50pm last Thursday resulted in a quantity of cannabis being seized.
Northern Grampians PSA Neighbourhood Policing Online Forum Have you registered yet? The forum welcomes local businesses and community members to attend online to hear from local police about what is important to your community. The forum will explore a range of topics including current crime trends and crime prevention, family violence, young people, drugs and drug related crime and road policing. Register for tomorrow’s event at// www.eventbrite.com/e/northerngrampians-psa-neighbourhoodpolicing-online-forum-tickets1435742246709?aff=erellivmlt
Top of the Town Beauty Salon’s Meagan Harvey consults with Pop Creative Collective’s Ching Ching Lee and Wendy Twigg as part of Northern Grampians Shire Council’s Shopfront Improvement Program.
For a prompt & professional service with a smile
Feast day linked to first ‘special’ event
ST JOSEPH’S School held its inaugural Grandparents and Special Friends Day last week.
Timed to coincide with the Feast Day of Saints Joachim and Anne (July 26) — the parents of Mary and grandparents of Jesus — the day was a wonderful celebration of love and connection.
Grandparents and special friends travelled from near and far to be part of the occasion.
The joy on the faces of both adults and students was unmistakable, as everyone enjoyed each other’s company and the opportunity to feel special and appreciated.
Mass was celebrated by Fr Gerry Prunty in a nearly full church.
Students sang specially chosen songs to open and close the service, adding a heartfelt touch.
The Prep/1/2 students opened with “Happy Grandparents Day,” and all students concluded with “You Are a Part of Me.”
After Mass, students presented their visitors with a handmade card and proudly escorted them to their classrooms.
Teachers had prepared a variety of engaging activities, including colouring, board games, and interview-style questions, allowing students and their guests to connect through play and conversation.
The morning concluded with a shared morning tea in the multi-purpose room. A delicious spread of sandwiches and slices
was enjoyed by all. Both staff and students were incredibly grateful for the presence of our special visitors and are already looking forward to doing it all again next year!
Last week marked a very special milestone—100 days of belonging, learning and growing together as Prep students celebrated with lots of counting and community spirit.
From proudly wearing their “100 Days” crowns to completing projects made with 100 items, the youngest learners showed just how far they’ve come since the first day of school. Collecting and ordering 100 numbered balls was no mean feat.
The classroom buzzed with excitement as students engaged in fun 100-themed activities. Some students arrived in dressups imagining what they might look like at 100 years old (complete with canes, glasses, and grey hair) while others brought along 100 of something - coins, footy cards and even an envelope containing 100 notes lovingly written for Ms Brown.
The 100th day of school is more than just a number—it’s a celebration of the hard work, friendships, and discoveries made along the way.
The curiosity, kindness and confidence of the Prep children continues to grow each day.
Coming up in term Three - Science Week, Book Week, Father’s Day Breakfast, Kinder visits and ‘Come & Try’ days for current four-year-old Kinder children.
Bank should ditch agency axing and ‘lead with innovation’
BULOKE Shire Council wants Bendigo Bank to rethink shutting its agency network.Agency withdrawal Bendigo Bank will close the Wycheproof agency among 28 other locations across regional Australia, including St Arnaud, in October.
Buloke Shire Council is urging the bank to instead lead with innovation.
“This doesn’t need to be the end – it could be the start of something smarter,” said Mayor Cr Alan Getley.
“The Bendigo Bank may see the agency model as outdated, but the relationship certainly is not.”
The Mayor cited that the Bendigo Bank has a proud history of community reinvestment and grassroots connection mak-
ing it uniquely placed to be the pioneers once again – one that uses technology to support human connection, not replace it.
While the bank cited reduced service use as a reason for closure, this does not eliminate the ongoing need for face-to-face assistance from trained navigators and provision of secure digital banking services.
The closure leaves Wycheproof with limited options: Bank@Post services at the Post Office during business hours, and a 24/7 Westpac-branded ATM for cash withdrawals.
“Let’s at least have a conversation to see how we can modernise the process such as multi-tiered partnering without erasing the connection,” the Mayor in his call for a reversal of the decision.
Prep students Ethena Getley, Wyatt Steenhuis, William Donaldson and Sophia Sait mark their first 100 days of school.
Blowout! AEMO $7.6b price tag triggers VNI West rethink call
IS THE controversial VNI West Transmission project still a viable option?
Victorian Farmers’ Federation says the State Government must rethink the project’s viability after Australian Energy Market Operator revealed huge cost blowouts to the renewable energy transmission line project project in a new report late last week.
AEMO’s 2025 Electricity Network Options Report estimated the project’s cost had more than doubled from estimates in May of $3.6 billion to $7.6 billion in its latest report.
The report warns that number may climb as high as $11.4 billion, prompting warnings from AEMO that it may need to reconsider its support for some projects.
VFF president Brett Hosking said the estimated cost blowout adds further weight to calls for the project to be scrapped.
“We know this is a failed project and this report only adds to calls for the Government to scrap it entirely.”
“To date the energy transition has been a failure and the Victorian Government is risking smooth and reliable energy transmission by continuing to force the VNI West project through,” Mr Hosking said.
Mr Hosking said the Government’s handling of the energy transition has been incredibly clumsy, particularly in how they engage and partner with rural communities along both VNI West and WRL projects and it was time for an urgent rethink and change of approach.
The Government owning their mistakes and starting again with landholders and community as partners is the only way to deliver a smooth and timely transition.
- Brett Hosking
The weekend’s successes follows impressive results at last month’s Australian Sheep and Wool Show in Bendigo.
Norm is pictured with the champion ram in Hamilton.
On-property ram sale season starts
VICTORIAN on-property Merino ram sale seasons starts this week.
“Farmers know we need deep, economy wide cuts to emissions.
“We know the world is changing and we’re part of that change, but we won’t cop being steamrolled in the process.”
“Owning their mistakes and starting again with landholders and community as partners is the only way to deliver a smooth and timely transition.”
FARMERS AMAZING RACE
“There’s huge opposition to this project throughout rural communities, and rightly so.
“This won’t change until the government and AEMO revisit their approach and treats farmers and our rural communities with the respect they deserve,”
Mr Hosking said.
The first sales are at Terrick West stud in the Loddon Valley on Friday with further Loddon studs holding auctions in August before the sale circuits begins moving west.
The Kerrilyn stud’s sale is in early September with other St Arnaud district stud sale also that month and into October.
This event will be conducted using golf buggies as a way of completing the challenges around the course. Ages from 18 to 90 can join in the fun.
Location: St. Arnaud Golf Club
When: Sunday, 24th August
Time: Start 9.30am - Finish: 2.30pm
Morning Tea and a Free BBQ Lunch will be provided
Prizes throughout the day
Free Raffle tickets at the Door
NORM Weir’s Kerrilyn Stud (Dunluce) has claimed both the champion and reserve champion sashes in the Merino strong wool sections at the weekend’s Sheepvention Rural Expo in Hamilton.
Sapiens 28Vessel’s mooring space
30Glib speech
31Window glass
32Likeness
33Worn away
35Hazarded
38Citrus fruit
39Anger
40S American mountains
41Grow less
42Roof’s projecting edge DOWN
1Feeling of discomfort 2Footwear 3Showing veneration 4Worships 5Valley 6Shamelessly bold 7Lazes 9Perfect score 13Newts 15Prised 17Turns 18Was ahead 22Enlarged lymphoid tissue
24Conjectures 27Three-pronged spear 28Barrier 29Conceal 30Conditional release 31Relating to punishment 34Otherwise 36Osculate 37Before (poet)
Solution No. 8569
100 Years Ago August 1-6
The Methodist church, which is also used by the Burrumbite State School, was destroyed by fire when a spark from the stove ignited nearby woodwork just after school had finished for the day. Mr M Batters noticed the burning building and with the assistance of neighbours managed to save the organ, some seats and official documents. The church had been built over 40 years ago.
The new Postmaster Mr M King has commenced duty at St Arnaud after spending the last 4½ years at Donald and the previous 6 years at Dunolly. For the past 11 months Mr Thomas has filled the position as acting postmaster after the departure of Mr Gordon to Stawell.
and Cr E J Read [gents prize, a silver mounted pipe].
Kara Kara Junior Football Assoc. – Kooreh 4-13 beaten by Swanwater 11-5, at the end of the first quarter the scores were 3-1 each. Goals kicked for Kooreh were by Cahill 2, Fraser & Moore 1 each and for Swanwater Scarce 3, C Brain 2, J Walton 2, and Fergus, O’Donohue, Z Brain & G Michael 1 each.
Football first semi final held at Birchip with Birchip 10-7 defeating Litchfield 8-11.
sold the Victoria Hotel to G Morgan from Ballarat who is a detective in the police force.
Hospital report for July - patients admitted 41, discharged 32, remaining 31, deaths 4 – Geo Battersby, Walter Else, Frank Ward & James Buchanan.
Two new Sisters have been employed, L Neely & E Campbell plus Sister Hopkins has been appointed temporary Sister until the arrival of Sister Neely from Hamilton on first September. Probation Nurse Harvey is on sick leave after an operation for appendicitis.
A new Masonic hall is to be built on the site of the old brick one, in Inkerman St, which has been sold for removal for £70.
Eighty couples danced to the Jazz Orchestra at the Australian Natives Assoc ball and euchre tournament held in the Town Hall, with the winners of euchre- Mrs H Murrells [Ladies prize a box handkerchiefs]
Solution No. 8569
ACROSS
100 Years Ago
Hotels changed hands – Manchester Arms Hotel – 2 years ago Mr A H Smith purchased it from Mr W Steward who had ran the hotel for many years, now Mr Smith has sold it to Mr R Dickinson of the Shamrock Hotel Kyneton. Mr J McFarlane has
Police Promotions – SeniorConstable Ellis of St Arnaud has been promoted to Second- Class Sergeant and former St Arnaudite Constable T J Goode son of the late Mr & Mrs Joseph Goode of Sutherland has been promoted to Senior-Constable.
3Rabid 8Atoned 10Armed 11Leo 12Vowel 14Antler 16Ferule 19Erect 20Odes 21Slaves 23Sited 25Den 26Man 28Berth 30Patter 31Pane 32Image 33Eroded 35Risked 38Lemon 39Ire 40Andes 41Lessen 42Eaves
August 1-5
The Hand of Death - Death has claimed one of the best known men in Charlton and District, Mr William McConnell, who passed away very peacefully at the residence of his wife, in Melbourne. Deceased was born at Geelong. In 1878, he came to Charlton, and had resided here practically ever since. At his trade of plumbing and tinsmith he was an acknowledged expert. Of a quiet, retiring disposition, he took little part in public affairs, but he was highly esteemed for his good qualities shown in private life. It was only from a fortnight previously that he went to Melbourne, where he received devoted attention until the end. The funeral took place at the Charlton Cemetery.
A Narrewillock Success - A very enjoyable time was spent by those who attended the dance held in Mr P. Carmody’s barn. The barn had been artistically decorated for the occasion. Colored streamers hung from the ceiling, and were looped to the walls, which were covered with greenery. About midnight the supper room was opened and the dancers, trooping in were invited to partake of a delightful repast. The tables had been decorated with Iceland poppies
DOWN 1Malaise 2Boot 3Reverent 4Adores 5Dale 6Impudent 7Idles 9Ten 13Efts 15Levered 17Rotates 18Led 22Adenoids 24Imagines 27Trident 28Bar 29Hide 30Parole 31Penal 34Else 36Kiss 37Ere
and gumnuts. When justice had been done to the good things, dancing was resumed and was brought to a successful conclusion about 3am.
Are You Going? For the Australian Steeplechase, a Buick Six will leave Charlton on Friday at 1.30pm, returning on Sunday. The return fare is £2 10/-, and seats may be booked at Messrs H. J. Jackson and Son.
Runabout Car for Sale - The special entries for Messrs Thos Morrow and Co’s sale will include a single seater Renault car, the owner of which is leaving the district. The car is in perfect running order and the tyres are good. Messrs Morrow and Co will also offer 130 4 year old merino ewes, with 85 marked lambs a foot; and 100 comeback ewes, 4 and 5 years old, with 100 per cent marked lambs at foot.
Well Done! A new record in regard to the size of a working bee in connection with the Presbyterian Church was created when 18 members of the board of management and the congregation practically completed the task of painting the Hall. The color scheme is light cream for
the walls, and yellow brown for the mountings. The work accomplished also included the painting of the exterior of the supper room. A splendid lunch for the volunteers was provided by Mesdames W. G. Fitzgerald, I. A. O’Donnell, J. Paterson, J. Biender, J. Arundell and Miss Annie Paterson. St Martin’s Annual MeetingThe financial report received by the Vestry of St Martin’s Church of England showed a satisfactory state of affairs. The splendid efforts of the ladies throughout the year resulted in between £250 and £300 – very creditable. Mr J. S. Bennett was elected Vicar’s Warden; Messrs A. E. Giles and G. A. Babidge are people’s wardens. It was decided to tender Mr J. J. Ogburn, who has just resigned from the Vestry, a presentation in appreciation of past services. It has been decided to recommend to the Vestry the purchase of a new organ for the Church and a piano for the Hall. Football - The narrow hilly ground of the Wycheproof Juniors again proved the downfall of Charlton Juniors, as it has done of other teams. The game was fairly well contested up till half-time, but after that the home side established a clear advantage, and won 7.7 (49 pts) to 3.6 (24 pts).
Landscape plan with a vision
By MADDIE GRANT
ACROSS the paddocks and back roads of our region, quiet but powerful work is being done to care for the land we all depend on.
Whether it’s planting shelterbelts, controlling rabbits and weeds, or restoring native vegetation along creek lines, Landcare has long been the backbone of community-driven environmental action in our area.
The Buloke and Northern Grampians Landcare Network plays a vital role in making this happen.
It brings together local Landcare groups, landholders, and volunteers to share resources, knowledge, and support.
For farmers, this often means practical help—advice on sustainable land management, access to funding for revegetation or fencing, or simply a hand coordinating a planting day.
For the wider community, it’s a way to connect, learn, and be part of something bigger than ourselves.
A key part of the network’s recent activity has been the launch of the Windharp Horizons Project, initiated last year.
This ambitious initiative brings together farmers, traditional owners, community members, and environmental experts to imagine and plan for the future of our landscapes.
At its heart is the Landscape Action Plan for a 2043 Vision, a roadmap for creating healthy, resilient, and productive country over the next two decades.
This kind of long-term thinking is exactly what Landcare is about—caring not just for today, but for future generations. It means planning for more than the next season—it means building soil health that lasts, preserving biodiversity, and managing water wisely.
If you’re a landholder wanting to start a new project, or you’ve been thinking of joining your local Landcare group but weren’t sure where to begin, now’s the perfect time.
Our Landcare groups are always keen to welcome new members—whether you have a hundred acres or a backyard, there’s something for everyone.
As the network looks ahead, it’s also entering a period of change.
Andrew Borg, who has been the network’s facilitator for the past several years, will be stepping down from the role in September.
Andrew has been a familiar and friendly face at countless field days, workshops, and community events. His dedication,
energy, and practical support have helped dozens of local projects take root and thrive.
He’ll be missed, and we thank him sincerely for his outstanding contribution.
With Andrew’s departure, the Buloke and Northern Grampians Landcare Network is now seeking a new facilitator—a role that’s central to keeping the network strong and active.
It’s a unique opportunity for someone who’s passionate about the land and working with community, with a focus on supporting local groups, coordinating projects, and helping to shape the future of our landscape.
The position was advertised in this paper last week.
If you or someone you know might be interested, please get in touch—this is a chance to be part of something meaningful and lasting.
As we look toward a future shaped by the 2043 Vision, let’s continue working together to care for the land that sustains us all. Because when the community and the land thrive together, everyone benefits.
Maddie Grant is president of Buloke and Northern Grampians Landcare Network
Vanuatu connection ... the joy of being together
By Cr KAREN PROBST
I HAD an attack of stage fright almost a fortnight ago. I was at a celebration in Stawell for the 45th anniversary of Vanuatu’s independence and was to give one of the welcome speeches.
Mum and dad lived in Vanuatu for a couple of years in the late ’80s so I was really looking forward to the day and meeting up with the Ni-Van people.
To help show my connection to Vanuatu I’d been practising my rusty Bislama so I could use their language in my introduction.
When I stood up to start talking, my brain turned a total blank.
Ahh well, admit to my stage fright, a slight pause, and I did get to struggle out a couple of sentences in Bislama.
At least it broke the ice, got a few laughs and smiles, and we had a wonderful afternoon sharing their food, traditional dance and singing, and playing the best game ever of musical chairs.
To see the joy the Ni-Van have in sharing their culture with us was inspiring.
With just my small connection, I really miss Vanuatu and I can’t imagine what it’s like for the NiVan to leave their home and families to come to a strange country for work. They make a wonderful contribution to our community, volunteering, playing soccer, and showing us the simple joy of spending time together.
So often in life we get stressed
about unimportant things, so it was really good to get a reminder to slow down, have fun with the people around us, laugh and dance and relax.
It was a bit of an emotional weekend, with the joy of Saturday following a little cry watching the John Lennon and Yoko Ono movie at St Arnaud Cinema the night before.
An interesting movie, both in content and style, but the part that brought the tears to my eyes was the backdrop of John Lennon singing ‘Imagine’ a world where everyone lives in peace, contrasting with the pictures of disabled children living in appalling conditions.
It was in the context of a fundraising concert by John and Yoko for the children, a small attempt to make life a bit better for a few people.
Both experiences are a reminder that it’s people who make life special.
The small things in life are actually the important things; the smiles we share, little random chats, giving our time to listen. So, this week, share a smile, give your time, don’t be scared to mess up and get embarrassed – that’s what being human is all about.
Cr Probst is a Kara Kara Ward councillor for Northern Grampians
Landcare facilitator Andrew Borg and (below) the network’s on-farm field days
PUBLIC NOTICE
Planning and Environment Act 1987
NORTHERN GRAMPIANS PLANNING SCHEME
Notice of the preparation of an amendment to a planning scheme
Amendment C64ngra
Overview
The amendment introduces the St Arnaud Township Framework Plan (2023) to the Northern Grampians Planning Scheme as a background document and implements policies and strategies to guide the future growth and development of St Arnaud. Specifically, the amendment makes changes to the Municipal Planning Strategy and Planning Policy Framework to insert policies and strategies from the St Arnaud Township Framework Plan (2023).
Details of the amendment
The Northern Grampians Shire Council planning authority has prepared Amendment C64ngra to the Northern Grampians Planning Scheme.
The land affected by the amendment is within and immediately surrounding the township of St Arnaud as illustrated by a new St Arnaud Framework Plan map to be inserted at Clause 11.01-1L St Arnaud.
The amendment proposes to reinforce the role of St Arnaud as a district town, while facilitating growth and development in a manner that does not result in an expansion of the township into areas with increased bushfire risk by implementing the St Arnaud Township Framework Plan (2023) as a background document in the Northern Grampians Planning Scheme.
You may inspect the amendment, any documents that support the amendment and the explanatory report about the amendment, free of charge, at:
The Department of Transport and Planning website planning.vic.gov.au/public-inspection or by contacting 1800 789 386 to arrange a time to view the amendment documentation.
The Northern Grampians Shire Council website at https://www.ngshire.vic.gov.au/ Projects-and-Consultation/Have-Your-Say; and
On request, during office hours, at the office of the planning authority, Northern Grampians Shire Council St Arnaud Town Hall and Offices at 40 Napier Street, St Arnaud, VIC 3477 by contacting (03) 5358 8700 to arrange a time to view the amendment documentation.
Any person may make a submission to the planning authority about the amendment. Submissions must be made in writing, giving the submitter’s name and contact address, clearly stating the grounds on which the amendment is supported or opposed and indicating what changes (if any) the submitter wishes to make.
Name and contact details of submitters are required for the planning authority to consider submissions and to notify such persons of the opportunity to attend planning authority meetings and any public hearing held to consider submissions. The closing date for submissions is 7 September 2025. A submission must be sent to Northern Grampians Shire Council, Attention: Strategic Planner, Re: Submission to Amendment C64 PO Box 580, Stawell, VIC, 3380.
The planning authority must make a copy of every submission available at its office and/ or on its website for any person to inspect free of charge until the end of the two months after the amendment comes into operation or lapses.
BRENT McALISTER
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
St. Arnaud Pool Competition WOOD RAFFLE WINNER
BULOKE SHIRE COUNCIL NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT
The land affected by the application is located at Saits Road, Charlton VIC 3525
MEETINGS
St. Arnaud & District Orchid Society Meeting
Sunday 10th August 1.00pm for 1.30pm Start
Senior Citizens Club 1A Golden Street, St. Arnaud.
Visitors Welcome
Speaker: Joy Scott
WHAT’S ON
Anne Michael Don’t forget... St. Arnaud Country Music
The application is for a permit for the Two lot subdivision of land (realignment of common boundary)
The application reference number is PA25021
You may view the application and supporting documents on the Buloke Shire Council Website https://buloke. greenlightopm.com/planning or by making contact with the office of the Responsible Authority, Buloke Shire Office, Wycheproof on 1300 520 520. This can be done during office hours and is free of charge. Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the Responsible Authority.
An objection must be made to the Responsible Authority in writing, include the objectors name and contact details, include reasons for the objection, and state how the objector would be affected. An online submission form is available at https://www.buloke.vic.gov.au/planningapplications-on-exhibition
The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before 21 August 2025
If you object to the application, the Responsible Authority will tell you it’s decision.
EXPRESSION OF INTEREST
Expression of Interest -Toyota Hiace Bus
Council is seeking expressions of interest for the purchase of a Toyota Hiace bus, which has reached its end-of-life as a council asset. This 11-seater bus was purchased in March 2000. The current odometer is 252,015 kms and it is in fair condition.
For further details and photos please follow the link below: http://www.vendorpanel.com.au/tenders
Search for Loddon Shire Council open Tenders and Expressions of Interest
Expressions of interest close 5:00pm Thursday 7 August 2025.
St. Arnaud Community Action Network Inc. (SCAN)
NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Monday 11th August 2025 at 7.00 pm in the Community Meeting Room 40 Napier St., St. Arnaud SCAN Membership is now due
EMPLOYMENT
JOB VACANCIES
Birchip
Endorsed Enrolled Nurse
Registered Nurse
St Arnaud
Resident Lifestyle Coordinator
Registered Nurse
Wycheproof
Endorsed Enrolled Nurse
Associate Nurse Unit Manager
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.
Sunday, 10th August 6pm ‘till 10pm
Guest ArtistShaun Minnick
Walk ups welcome St. Arnaud Sporting Club Charlton Road, St. Arnaud. Further details contact 0427 831 613
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
7 DAYS
Hayley: 0409 337 276, Luke: 0458 885 266
LISTINGS
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
DEATH NOTICES
COATES (CLIFFORD)
- Margaret Alice “Peg” of St Arnaud passed away peacefully on July 29th 2025, aged 94 yrs. Loving wife of Bruce (dec). Loved mother and mother-in-law of Colin and Robyn; Neil and Jan; Helen and Greg Polkinghorne; Di and Eddy Ostarcevic. Treasured Nan of Leonie, Brett, Ian; Dale, Brad, Shaun; Claire, Angus and Great Nan of Georgie, James; Josh, Eloise, Lachie; Alfie, Louis, Elma; Chad, Vivian; Archie, Stella, Ollie; and Billy.
REST PEACEFULLY MUM RE UNITED WITH DAD
COATES (CLIFFORD)
- Margaret Alice “Peg” Mum, Peg, Nan, Great Nan. The memories we have shared will always be with us.
Love Helen and Greg, Dale, Jennae, Chad and Vivian; Bradley; Shaun, Jessica, Archie, Stella and Ollie.
FUNERAL
COATES
A celebration for Peg was held at the Uniting Church St Arnaud on Aug. 4th 2025 at 1.30pm
A private burial was held. Condolences at lifelived.com.au
KELL FUNERALS ST. ARNAUD
NFDA EST: 1860 5495 1043
IN MEMORIAM
PYERS
DISTRICT CATHOLIC CHURCHES
East Wimmera Parish
BIRCHIP - Sunday August 10th
10.30am - Live Stream in
BOORT - Sunday August 10th
10.30am - Live Stream in BANYENA - No Mass
CHARLTON - Sunday August 10th 8.30am - Mass
DONALD - Saturday August 9th 7.00pm - Mass
ST.ARNAUD - Sunday August 10th
10.30am Live Stream out to churches without Mass
WYCHEPROOF - Sunday August 10th
10.30am - Live Stream in Parish Coordinator: Noeline Hogan 0476 617 976
UNITING CHURCH
ST. ARNAUD / STUART MILL
Sunday 10th August
St. Arnaud 9.30am Peter Welsh. All Welcome. PARISH OFFICE
Chris & Rob Batters Pastorial Co-ordinators Enquiries: 5495 6223
CHURCH NOTICES
ST. ARNAUD CHURCH OF CHRIST
Cnr Queens Ave & Alma St.
Celebrating faith in our Lord Thu 7th August
10.30 a.m.: Faith Group Sun 10th August 10.30 a.m.: Worship & Communion Speaker: Peter Fleming Tues. 12th August 4.30 p.m.:
Bealiba: 8am 2nd/4th
All Welcome Rev. Peter Downes Enquiries phone: 0412 957 383
Tournament’s strong fields
ONE HUNDRED golfers turned out for the four ball event on Friday for the annual Charlton golf tournament.
Players competed in two divisions with the results as follows:
Division 1 winners: Byron Bird/ Robbie Tonkin 44 points survived a countback from runners up Steve and Warren McGurk also on 44 points. Division 2 winners: Peter Sanderson/Ron Weston 44 points were 1 point clear of runners up Benno Catherine/Piston Clydesdale 43 points. Nearest the pins: 2nd Keith Bird, 7th Sam Newth, 14th David Lanyon Best 2nd shot on 17th Keith Lewis sponsor Vale of Avoca. Longest drive Steve McGurk sponsor Charlton Newsagency. Winners of the Peter Tindley/Newton Turner perpetual shield were Tim Kelly/Paul Cranage with 40 points on countback Wayne Townsing/Robert Rosenow also 40 points. Saturday’s men’s day event was contested by 64 players.
Div. 1 30 hole scratch: Andrew Kane 51-74- 125 Div. 2 30 hole scratch: Jamey Soulsby 55-91-146 Div. 1 30 hole HCP Robert Rosenow 44 1/3-70-114 1/3
Div.2 30 hole HCP Brett Smyth 48 2/3 -70-118 2/3 Div 1 18 hole scratch Steve Valentine 73 Div 2 18 hole scratch Tony Holt 88 cb Trevor McGurk 88 Div 1 18 hole
HCP Graham Nesbit 65 net Div 2 18 hole HCP Trevor McGurk 70 net Div 1 12 hole scratch Jon Curnick 49 Div 2 12 hole scratch John Headon 55 Div 1 12 hole HCP Owen Bailey 47 net Div 2 12 hole HCP Benno Catherine 46 net NTP 2nd S. One, 7th D. Lanyon, 14th B. Anstey Longest drive and best 2nd shot on 17th J. Curnick.
Dr Geoffrey Wilson trophy: Charlton Vs Kew, won by Robert Rosenow 114 1/3 The ambrose
event on Sunday had 22 pair on the course. Winners: Mary Headon/Peter Whitmore 62½. Runners up: Wendy and Anthony Hargreaves 64 1/4. NTP: 2nd K. Bird, 7th C. McNaughton, 14th W. Hargreaves Best 2nd shot on 17: P.Noonan/K.Laffin.
The next major event is on the weekend of August 23 and 24 when Charlton will host the Victorian sand green championship.
The tournament opened with Putter Day where the winning pair was Mandy Male and Deanne Free 70 points.
Runner-up pair was their playing mates Lyn Boyle and Heather Hogan 69 points.
Div 1 winner Julie Mclennan 35 points from Brenda Proctor 34. Div 2 winner Leonie Boxall 35 points from Alison Tormey 33on a countback from Chris Livingston. NTPs: 7th Jan Walklate, 2nd and 14th Anne Kenny.
St Arnaud
THE weather on Saturday was a cracker, perfect for a stroll around the course and a game of golf. Four ladies and 14 men relished the conditions, and there were some good scores to be had amongst our golfers.
Wily Will Jackson and the quietly efficient, Rob Batters, played their singles match in the morning and it was a Titanic struggle to the end. The match was decided on the 19th hole, with Will’s youthful exuberance overcoming the steady Rob.
Will now reaches the pointy end of the comp, with his opponent yet to be decided.
A doubles match between the Baldock boys, Trevor and Lindsay, and the Scilini-Rodger combination was tight to the very end, with the Baldock combina-
KELL FUNERALS
August 6th
Chelsea Medlyn
August 7th
Chris Snell
August 8th
Pat Wood
August 9th
Kevin Goode
August 10th
Robert Murdoch
August 11th
Craig Gifford
Regeena Torney
August 12th
Brett Archibald
Kirsty Richards
Ruby Warren
tion making compost of their opponents.
Trevor and Lindsay are now playing off in the final.
The winners in Division 1 were David Lanyon on 36 points, winning the Six2Six Award just ahead of Trevor Baldock on 35 points.
Winners in Division 2 were Mark McGrath on 38 points, with second place going to Jenny Lanyon on 36 points.
For his efforts, Mark won the St Arnaud Physiotherapy Award and his playing partners commented that it was like a Phoenix rising from the ashes.
The St Arnaud Caravan Park Nearest to Pin on the 8th hole was won by Peter Martin. The Weirs IGA NTP on the 18th hole was won by Ivan Jackson. Mark McGrath, with his consistent driving, collected the NTP on the 10th hole, and the evergreen Bill Rodger took out the NTP on the 6th .
On Sunday, the Champion of Champions and Shield Day was played at St Arnaud.
The top guns of Kara Kara Golf Association assembled for their annual shoot out. The Champion of Champions was taken out by Andrew Kane from Boort Golf Club. Home ground advantage helped the St Arnaud team of Craig Burn, David Lanyon, Scott Wright, Will Jackson and Bill Rodger win the Kara Kara Shield.
Wedderburn had revenge in the Nett event by also claiming back-to-back titles from the gallant team from Sea Lake.
St Arnaud Country
A small field of ladies again played a stableford round at St Arnaud Country Club. Winner was Carmel Weir on a countback from Brenda Proctor. NTPs: Brenda Proctor, Marilyn Knights.
Scrub boys battle with enigmatic
ROUND Fourteen of the InterHotels’ Pool Competition last week saw no high drama in amongst the marsupials and verdant expanses to the north-west of town as well as a wake-up call for one of the contenders for a finals’ berth when they visited the bastion on the hill at Lord Nelson Park.
The boys from the Pub in the Scrub made the voyage to the Country Club to do battle with their enigmatic number One side and at the conclusion of the first round the teams could not be separated as the Logan’s Ben Pell and Jacob Vanrenen opened their accounts against Paul Mullins and Troy Shields while Shaun McNaulty and Stephen Rodger had gone under to Dan Harkin and Des Moulday.
It was on this day eighty years ago that the US Navy suffered its greatest disaster in a single action at sea when the heavy cruiser USS Indianapolis was sunk by a Japanese submarine with the loss of 883 sailors.
The blame for this tragedy fell on to the shoulders of her captain, Charles McVay, and at the top of the second round Ben was to torpedo captain Charles McMullins to terminate his evening’s campaign however his shipmates Troy and Dan were to evade the sharks as Troy squared his match with Jacob and Dan retired Shaun while Des, with a magpie instead of an albatross around his neck, was unable to cope with Stephen, the Jolly Rodger, eventually succumbing to Daicos delirium and slipping from the life-raft in the third round to join fellow magpie maniac Troy who had been dealt a similar fate by Jacob.
The Avoca Foresters were now leading by six games to four but the spectre of salvation for the stranded souls of the Country Club One appeared briefly on the horizon when the Loganites lost the opening doubles but this was quickly avenged when they won the final doubles to usurp fourth place on the ladder from the sunken Mean Machine with a seven games to five victory.
If the Country Club Two side thought that they were going to pull off an easy jackpot when they signed in to do battle with the Sporting Club at their home
By BOB WOOLEY
then they were to be in for a rudeawakening as the cunning Clubbers were to produce a couple of unlikely heroes in a match that was completed in the minimum number of games.
These were to be Jesse Cook, who eliminated Will Jackson, and Joel Nevill, who accounted for Jake Male, both matches being very close encounters.
In the clash of the captains the Rollers and Floggers’ Harley Durward had dismissed Dayle Pitt while his teammate Simon Elliott had mowed down Tim Wright, with the match in equilibrium it was down to the doubles.
I was informed by a reliable source that the match could well have gone to a tie-breaker but the Club Two won both to take the match by seven games to five, setting up a mouth-watering home derby between the two C/ Club sides next week.
Calm and relative normality returned to the Parisian quarter of town when the home derby between the two Farmers’ Arms teams did battle on the baize.
Leigh Watkins fired the opening shots in his match against Ash Craddock, eventually accounting for him in three sets while the Batlow blaster Geoff Watts had fired Ruby Smith with a similar score-line.
Ned Gorrie and Ben Medlyn only required the minimum number of matches to dispose of Jack Hodges and Bianca Cannon, they then went on to win both doubles encounters to take the matchten games to two.
With just two rounds to go the top three positions on the ladder will not change but the fates of the Logan and Country Club One teams now lay in the hands of the likely recipients of the kitchen cutlery, the Farmers’ Arms Two team; could amazing Alayne’s Amazons instigate an upset to bring the home-and-away component of the season to an unexpected conclusion?
LADDER: RSL 12, F armers’ Arms One 10, Country Club Two 8, Logan 6, Country Club One 5, Sporting Club 1, Farmers’ Arms Two 1.
Centre trainers keep building bag tally
THE success of the trainers from the Charlton Training Centre continued last week with another four wins being added to the season’s tally.
At Maryborough, Hungry Hogarth took out the NR 40 to 45 class pace for Michael Gadsden and Luke Dunne.
The 6yo gelding was named after the Sunraysia sporting legend Michael Hogarth who won eight football premierships and was awarded the Innes Medal three times as Sunraysia’s best cricketer. He passed away in late 2024 after a four year battle with MND.
The Tori Hutchins-trained Jilliby Tidalwave won the following race with Jordan Leedham driving.
The 5yo mare has now had six starts since moving to the Charlton stable for four wins and two placings.
At Bendigo on Wednesday night the
By INSIDE RUNNING
Hutchins/Leedham combination was successful again with the much travelled trotter Rakero Warrior.
The 6yo gelding by Bettors Delight won once in NZ before winning three races for Andy and Kate Gath and then moved to NSW where it won one race in March 2024.
At its first start for Tori it was a winner at Melton last month and has since won another two times from its next three starts.
Tori had more success at Mildura on Friday with Jilliby Moon, a 5yo mare by Sweet Lou who had only had four previous starts, winning her maiden race by 14m. The driver on this occasion was Luke Dunne.
There were two concession drivers races at Maryborough on Monday with the first, a trot, being won by Champagnes ($41.00) for Berimal owner Debbie Youngson and
trainer Nick Youngson. The winning driver was 21year old Olivia Jardine who was having only her ninth race drive and it was her first success.
The Jardine name is firmly entrenched in the harness racing history of the Maryborough district with Olivia’s grandfather, Ed, racing former top line pacer Rathscar who was by Floodlight from a Lawn Derby mare, and his brother Hugh who won with many top horses of his era including Super Tempest, the winner of the first harness race at Moonee Valley on October 30, 1976.
Charlton owners featured amongst the winners in Tasmania last week with John and Paul Thompson’s mare Twisted Bliss winning at Launceston on Friday and Alison Tormey’s 3yo Coniston winning in Hobart on Saturday .
This week’s racing features the Charlton meeting on Monday .
Troy Heenan, Tony Cain, Paul Cranage and Murray Ennis at the Charlton tournament. NCN PHOTO
NORTH
SENIORS
Charlton 2.1 2.3 4.4 4.6 (30)
Calder United 6.3 10.13 16.15 21.20 (146)
GOALS – Charlton: I. Bourke, B. Xiriha, A. Patterson, J. Harris. Calder United: J. Exell 7, D. Watts, R. Smith, Z. Keighran, G. Turner, J. Humphreys 2, M. Farmer, Z. Caccaviello, C. Green, H. Senior.
BEST – Charlton: M. Collins, P. Soulsby, R. Thompson, M. Heenan, J. Harris, D. Whykes. Calder United: S. Kennedy, J. Exell, G. Turner, K. Hommelhoff, T. Vearing, Z. Keighran. St Arnaud 1.0 3.1 4.1 4.2 (26) Birchip Watchem 11.5 17.8 25.11 33.11 (209)
GOALS – St Arnaud: L. Bridger 2, K. Torney, Z. Phillips. Birchip Watchem: B. Edwards 15, T. Gibson 7, R. Conboy 3, R. Hogan Jr, H. Hosking, N. Rippon 2, B. Lakin, D. Bell. BEST – St Arnaud: B. Durward, S. Elliott, J. Kirwood, T. Bertalli, S. Male, L. Bridger. Birchip Watchem: B. Edwards, T. Gibson, N. Rippon, D. Hinkley, D. Bell, H. Cook. Donald 0.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 (2) Sea Lake Nandaly 6.9 12.15 23.16 31.19 (205)
GOALS – Sea Lake Nandaly: M. Cahoon 13, L. McClelland 5, J. Summerhayes 3, J. Wright, B. Delmenico, J. Keogh, C. OSullivan 2, W. Donnan, C. Tait.
BEST – Donald: D. Pearce, C. Campbell, D. Bell-Warren, J. Adams, H. Forrest, B. Arho. Sea Lake Nandaly: M. Cahoon, C. O’Sullivan, B. Delmenico, W. Donnan, J. Poulton, C. Cox. Boort 3.1 3.2 7.3 8.5 (53) Wedderburn 3.5 5.11 8.13 13.17 (95)
GOALS – Boort: J. Keeble, K. Rutley 2, P. Barbopoulos, M. Beattie, J. Baddeley-Kelly, J. Dick. Wedderburn: J. Mortlock 6, M. McEwen, M. Jensen 2, Z. Pallpratt, O. Holt, D. Benaim.
BEST – Boort: J. Smith, K. Rutley, C. Egan, J. Keeble, M. Beattie, J. Baddeley-Kelly. Wedderburn: J. Mortlock, N. Furlong, J. McEwen, Z. Pallpratt, H. Lockhart, I. Holt.
Birchip Watchem 14 14 0 0 0 296.86 56
Calder United 14 11 3 0 0 257.54 44
Sea Lake Nandaly 14 10 4 0 0 275.81 40
Boort 14 8 6 0 0 137.81 32
Wedderburn 14 7 7 0 0 155.94 28
Charlton 14 4 10 0 0 29.78 16
St Arnaud 14 2 12 0 0 36.03 8
Donald 14 0 14 0 0 12.65 0
RESERVES
Donald 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 (0)
Sea Lake Nandaly 3.7 7.12 16.17 22.21 (153)
GOALS – Sea Lake Nandaly: J. Clohesy 12, C. Elliott 4, B. Weir 2, B. Stadon, J. Cox, B. Kelly, J. Stacey.
BEST – Donald: G. Morgan, G. Burke, D. Hawkes, C. Campbell, D. Tatarskyj, B. Hollis. Sea Lake Nandaly: J. Clohesy, B. Weir, M. Elliott, C. Michael, C. Elliott, I. Durie.
Charlton 0.0 0.0 0.0 2.0 (12) Calder United 5.4 10.6 14.8 19.11 (125)
GOALS – Charlton: D. Fitzpatrick, Z. Dean. Calder United: B. Barker 4, A. Forrester 3, J. Turner, D. Kelly, G. Forrester 2, B. Forrester, R. Allan, J. Ison, S. Hogan, S. Kelly, D. McLennan.
BEST – Charlton: T. Finlay, L. Dunne, A. Soulsby, Z. Dean, F. Bourke, J. Durie. Calder United: C. Fawcett, D. McLennan, D. Kelly, B. Barker, B. Forrester, J. Turner. Boort 4.2 10.5 11.7 13.7 (85) Wedderburn 0.2 0.4 2.6 4.7 (31)
GOALS – Boort: J. Baker 5, J. Mulquiny 3, A. Cockerell 2, C. O’Rourke, N. Scott. Wedderburn: J. Van de Wetering, L. Sims, C. Hargreaves, R. Dole.
BEST – Boort: J. Mulquiny, J. Hall, B. Leslie, F. Millar, L. Boyd, J. Baker. Wedderburn: N. Winslett, J. Jones, R. Tonkin, C. Hargreaves, R. Holt, M. Lockhart.
St Arnaud 3.1 7.4 9.5 11.10 (76)
Birchip Watchem 2.4 4.5 5.9 8.9 (57)
GOALS – St Arnaud: J. Hicks 3, H. Torney, T. Petrie 2, B. Williams, R. Burke, H. McNally, J. Tillig. Birchip Watchem: L. Sirett 3, C. Goode 2, T. Colbert, J. Woods, B. Paley.
BEST – St Arnaud: J. Male, B. Greenaway, H. McNally, G. Gorrie, L. Ezard, H. Torney. Birchip Watchem: T. Colbert, B. Colbert, G. Addis, C. Lee, C. Boyle.
Calder United 14 13 1 0 0 438.76 52
Boort 14 12 2 0 0 343.25 48
Birchip Watchem 14 10 4 0 0 239.17 40
Sea Lake Nandaly 14 8 6 0 0 174.09
UNDER 17
Charlton
Calder United 2.0
(29)
(52)
BEST – Charlton: X. Good, L. Van Boven, L. Monaghan, J. Wright, E. Soulsby, S. Olive. Calder United: A. Cowell, R. Hogan, T. Vearing, T. Perry, J. Cavalier.
Donald
Sea Lake Nandaly
(7)
(75)
BEST – Donald: E. Clapham, H. Clark, B. Cumming, J. Lydom. Sea Lake Nandaly: J. Durie, B. Kelly, C. Kelly, C. Symes, T. Borlase, N. McClelland.
St Arnaud
Birchip Watchem
(91)
(44)
BEST – St Arnaud: C. Zander, A. Reyne, F. Donald, A. Wickham, R. Leach. Birchip Watchem: O. Cook, N. Dean, J. Knights, C. Jones.
Boort
Wedderburn
(87)
(25)
BEST – Boort: B. McPherson, C. Gould, L. Boyd, C. Hird, D. Perryman, J. O’Flaherty. Wedderburn: N. Winslett, B. Cunningham, W. Cunningham, W. Huismann, T. Blair. St Arnaud
UNDER 14
Arnaud
Birchip Watchem
BEST – St Arnaud: F. Wilson, S. Greenaway, P. Zsigmond, I. Johns, S. Kay, S. Weir. Birchip Watchem: A. Tyler, T. Kemp, E. Dean, I. Atkinson.
Donald
Sea Lake Nandaly
BEST – Donald: N. Michael, J. Italia, M. Reilly, D. Burke, E. Geddes, T. Lydom. Sea Lake Nandaly: R. Allan, H. Wight, J. Hodgson, H. Cox, H. Landry, A. Smith.
Boort
Wedderburn
(4)
BEST – Boort: B. Gilmore, C. Nuttall, C. McNally, S. Soumelidis, M. Twigg. Wedderburn: J. McDonnell, B. Turnbull, L. Roberts, Z. Polkinghorne, L. Martin.
Calder United
(27)
(28)
BEST – Charlton: S. Cossar, R. Gahan, D. Olive, C. Dixon, F. Zagame, C. Riley. Calder United D. Polzin, J. Harrison, L. Hall, B. Hogan, R. Harrison, L. Poyner.
Arnaud
UNDER 14.5
Natte Bealiba 15.7 (97) d Dunolly 3.5 (23). Trentham 17.19 (121) d Newstead 3.1 (19). Talbot 2.0 (12) lost to Navarre 20.10 (130). Maryborough 1.1 (7) lost to Carisbrook 13.8 (86). Campbells Creek 1.0 (6) lost to Maldon 28.14 (182).
UNDER 11.5
Natte Bealiba 0.2 lost to Dunolly 4.10 (34). Trentham 0.1 (1) lost to Newstead 6.9 (45). Talbot 5.4 (34) d Navarre 2.3 (15). Maryborough 0.2 (2) lost to Carisbrook 4.10. Campbells Creek 0.1 (1) lost to Maldon 8.6 (54).
NORTH CENTRAL NETBALL
A Grade
Charlton 6, 10, 19, 24, (24) lost to Calder United 20, 40, 55, 73, (73). St Arnaud (36) lost to Birchip Watchem (62). Donald (26) lost to Sea Lake Nandaly (46). Boort 11, 19, 26, 36, (36) lost to Wedderburn 10, 26, 36, 52, (52).
Ladder: Wedderburn 56, Sea Lake Nandaly 44, Boort 40, Calder United 32, Birchip Watchem 28, Donald 16, Charlton 6, St Arnaud 2.
B Grade
Charlton 7, 16, 20, 26, (26) lost to Calder United 11, 22, 41, 53, (53). St Arnaud (50) lost to Birchip Watchem (67). Donald (35) lost to Sea Lake Nandaly (54). Boort 5, 8, 15, 21, (21) lost to Wedderburn 16, 32, 47, 59, (59).
Ladder: Wedderburn 56, Calder United 44, Boort 40, Birchip Watchem 36, St Arnaud 20, Sea Lake Nandaly 18, Donald 10, Charlton 0.
C Grade
Charlton 5, 12, 18, 23, (23) lost to Calder United 20, 37, 57, 77, (77). St Arnaud (47) d Birchip Watchem (33). Boort 12, 31, 42, 49, (49) d Wedderburn 8, 19, 29, 44, (44). Donald 6, 15, 20, 25, (25) lost to Sea Lake Nandaly 14, 30, 46, 62, (62).
Ladder: Calder United 52, Sea Lake Nandaly 40, Wedderburn 40, Boort 36, Birchip Watchem 28, St Arnaud 20, Charlton 4, Donald 0.
C Reserve
Boort 22, 44, 65, 89, (89) d Wedderburn 5, 10, 14, 19, (19). St Arnaud (21) lost to Birchip Watchem (31).
Ladder: Boort 36, Sea Lake Nandaly 36, Calder United 24, Birchip Watchem 16, Wedderburn 8, St Arnaud 0. 17 & Under
Boort 7, 20, 29, 46, (46) d Wedderburn 5, 14, 19, 23, (23). St Arnaud 11, 30, 40, 48, (48) lost to Birchip Watchem 18, 29, 38, 51, (51). Charlton 0, 4, 12, 18, (18) lost to Calder 22, 38, 48, 62, (62). Donald 7, 15, 26, 36, (36) lost to Sea Lake Nandaly 10, 22, 36, 52, (52). 39, (39).
Ladder: Calder United 52, Birchip Watchem 48, Boort 38, St Arnaud 34, Sea Lake Nandaly 24, Charlton 16, Wedderburn 8, Donald 0.
14 & Under A
Charlton 0, 0, 1, 1, (1) lost to Calder United 14, 21, 31, 31, (31). Donald 10, 19, 31, 39, (39) d Sea Lake Nandaly 4, 8, 13, 17, (17). Boort 0, 0, 0, 30, (30) d Wedderburn 0, 0, 0, 7, (7). St Arnaud (14) lost to Birchip Watchem (20).
Ladder: Boort 56, Birchip Watchem 48, Donald 40, Calder United 32, St Arnaud 24, Charlton 8, Sea Lake Nandaly 8, Wedderburn 8.
14 & Under B
SENIORS
GOALS – Talbot: J. Stephens 4, C. Aitken, J. House, L. Kemp, J. McGuire 2, Z. Cicchini, J. Hind, L. Hind, D. Limbach, A. Scott. Navarre: R. Bibby, O. Notting 2, H. Bigmore. BEST – Talbot: J. House, C. Aitken, J. McGuire, K. Lang, Z. Cicchini, L. Hind. Navarre: J. Fowkes, O. Notting, A. Bade, D. Reading, J. Mentha, Z. Varley.
Natte Bealiba 8.6 (54) d Dunolly 6.14 (50). Campbells Creek 5.7 (37) lost to Maldon 21.20 (146). Trentham 22.14 (146) d Newstead 0.2 (2). Maryborough 9.7 (61) lost to Carisbrook 28.13 (181). Ladder: Trentham 58, Talbot 56, Carisbrook 54, Harcourt 52, Natte Bealiba 52, Navarre 36, Dunolly 28, Maldon 28, Lexton 24, Newstead 22, Avoca 20, Maryborough 18, Campbells Creek 8.
RESERVES
Natte Bealiba 0.0 (0) lost to Dunolly 12.20 (92). Campbells Creek 5.6 (36) lost to Maldon 18.13 (121). Trentham 17.8 (110) d Newstead 2.4 (16). Talbot 21.11 (137) d Navarre 0.5 (5). Maryborough 1.2 (8) lost to Carisbrook 24.22. UNDER 17.5
Natte Bealiba 24.17 (161) d Dunolly 0.0 (0). Talbot 0.0 (0) lost to Navarre 29.12 (186). Maryborough 6.3 (39) lost to Carisbrook 7.5 (47). Trentham forfeit by Maldon.
Donald 6, 7, 11, 15, (15) d Sea Lake Nandaly 2, 5, 10, 11, (11). Boort 4, 10, 13, 14, (14) d Wedderburn 2, 3, 4, 4, (4). St Arnaud (13) d Birchip Watchem (9).
Ladder: St Arnaud 44, Boort 44, Birchip Watchem 32, Wedderburn 18, Calder United 16, Donald 10, Sea Lake Nandaly 4.
NORTH CENTRAL HOCKEY
MEN
Sea Lake Nandaly d Charlton 3-1. Wedderburn lost to Donald Donald 4 d Sea Lake Nandaly 0. Charlton 0 lost to Calder United 11. Boort 4 d Wedderburn 0. St Arnaud Bye.
Ladder: Calder United 28, Donald 28, St Arnaud 26, Boort 20, Wedderburn 14, Sea Lake Nandaly 6, Charlton 0. WOMEN
Donald 1 d Sea Lake Nandaly 0. Charlton 3 lost to Calder United 4. Boort 1 lost to Wedderburn 3. St Arnaud Bye. Ladder: St Arnaud 30, Calder United 30, Charlton 27, Wedderburn 16, Boort 15, Donald 7, Sea Lake Nandaly 0. UNDERAGE
Donald 6 d Sea Lake Nandaly 3. Charlton 3 d Calder United 1, St Arnaud 9 d Birchip Watchem 0. Boort Bye.
Ladder: Charlton 36, St Arnaud 28, Donald 18, Boort 16, Calder United 11, Sea Lake Nandaly 7, Birchip Watchem 7. UNDER 12
Donald 0 lost to Sea Lake Nandaly 3. Charlton 0 drew Calder United 0. St Arnaud 1 lost to Birchip Watchem 5. Boort 0 lost to Wedderburn 4.
Ladder: Birchip Watchem 36, Calder United 35, Charlton 35, St Arnaud 22, Wedderburn 16, Boort 7, Sea Lake Nandaly 7, Donald 6.
Reunion team congratulated Heenan makes it title No 8
IT WAS a special round for Charlton netbnallers on Saturday with the 5s reunion, book launch and contesting the Mount of Respect trophies against Calder United.
There was great turnout of past players, their families and friends to reminisce on past successes and watch our current teams as they faced a strong opposition.
The reunion and netball committees were congratulated for their work on the event.
In the under 14s, Calder took honours with Charlton awards going to Steels Butcher Best: Rosie Fitzpatrick, FHN Ladies Auxiliary Coaches: Sophie Roberts, NWAG and Roberts Windrowing “Have a Crack” Lila Lanyon.
There was a tough contest for the under 17 Charlton team up against a well drilled opposition.
The attackers worked well against a tall and strong defence, adjusting well to changes, playing their best.
Charlton defenders were putting on as much pressure as they could, with accurate shooting from the opposition there were little opportunities to gain ball but when there was a chance our girls got hands to every ball.
Another solid effort from the full team.
Charlton 18 def by Calder United 62 Bendigo Bank and Ergo &Mane Best: Erin Blair, FNH Ladies Auxiliary Coaches: Lucy Gretgrix, Caffeinated Chaos Captains Coffee: Taylah Giles.
C Grade: A few change ups,
firstly welcome back to Lily Campbell returning for her first game since welcoming baby No 3!
Leading the way in attack, the girls had a lot of strength and drive this week.
Tahlia Holmes-Brown made a change into GS and GA this week (as apposed to the usual GK!) Jac Leslie and Taylah Boyle also working well together again working around the ring.
Annie Olive and Zoe Carney combined well in defence with Annie holding good strength and Zoe keeping her hands in every contest.
Charlton girls worked hard as a team keeping the score gap low in the early quarters.
Fantastic to see some new positions as we near the end of the season.
Charlton 23 def by Calder United 77. Vale of Avoca and Ergo & Mane Best: Talia Holmes-Brown, JS Plumbing Coaches: Lily Campbell, Caffeinated Chaos Captains Coffee: Emily Wright
Despite the scores Charlton’s B grade girls played a great team game again.
In warmer conditions they pushed themselves to keep going.
Holly Thompson and Bec Sexton applied great pressure to cause a lot of loose balls in the defence end.
A competitive game that showed some great team plays by the girls.
Charlton 26 def by Calder United 53. Teys Charlton Feedlot and Ergo and Mane Beauty Best: Kate
Stuchbery, Teys Charlton Feedlot Coaches: Rebecca Sexton, Caffeinated Chaos Captains Coffee: Tori Hutchins
A slow start for the young A grade side compared to the last time they faced Calder.
With several players out, it was a debut for the 2025 season for Sarah Blair.
Along with Sarah, four under 17s girls were in the line up. Unfortunately, Charlton struggled in goals to consolidate or keep it down their end defensively, however some great attacking moments between Claudia Lee, Lacey. Smith and Sarah Blair and the mids feeding into the ring. Megan Bruns moving back to GK feeling unwell and Bec Sexton managed the first quarter before
rolling her ankle Charlton defenders were up against it but despite this they continued to play wonderful as usual.
When the opportunity arose for rebounds and tips they had hands on everything however there were few as they were up against some very accurate shooters. Some good passages of play but not enough this week to match the strength and intensity of Calder.
Walsh Motors and Ergo & Mane Beauty Best: Claudia Lee, Walsh Motors Coaches: Lacey Smith, Caffeinated Chaos Captains Coffee: Claire Smith. Connect Coffee and Stacy’s Dental Volunteer of the Day: Laura Fitzpatrick
TROY HEENAN has claimed his eighth Charlton bandminton A Grade singles championship. Heenan won all of his five matches, including the final against Thomas Bibin 25-14. Thomas was successful in his other four matches.
Lachlan Holmes-Brown and Soni Easo finished with two wins each, while Seb Zagame and Brian Heenan each secured one win for the night.
In the Ladies A Grade, Naomi Fitzpatrick successfully won her first club singles championship title by winning all her five matches, including against runner up, Sandra Fanning 25-17. Sandra’s only loss for the night was against Naomi. Brooke Thompson had three wins.
The Men’s B Grade Championship was hotly contested between five players. Lachlan Start and Leigh Van Boven each had three wins, Lachlan defeating Leigh 2521 in the round robin, but the title going fo Leigh with a better percentage on the night.
Ethan Soulsby and Mat Thompson both finished the night with two wins apiece and Jordan Start, although not cracking a win for the night, had four very close matches.
Players from Geelong, Macedon, Ballarat, Bendigo, Horsham, St Arnaud, Boort and Charlton for our Annual Ladies Badminton Tournament.
RESULTS
Section 1: Maxine Andrews (Ballarat) from Morgan Crisp (Charlton). Section 2: Mikaylah Crisp (Charlton) from Ilona Moore (Ballarat). Section 3: Karen Lopaz (Geelong) from Shirley McDonald (Boort). Section 4: Norbil Binti Abuil Jalil (Horsham) from Courtney Paterson (Ballarat). Section 5 Noime Powell (Horsham) from Joan Velthuis (Horsham)
NAVIES’ REUNION FIVES
Charlton’s Zoe Carney bounds down the court. NCN PHOTO
Players of the past line up to watch the modern-day Navies. NCN PHOTOS
Kaye Cossar, Jennie McGrath and Kim Thompson
Marea Todd and Jayne Burton
Barry McKenzie, Brendan and Jenny Moloney Ian and Lisa Bruns
Edwards brings up season’s century
THE North Central football season is fast coming to an end for St Arnaud and Charlton senior sides.
Both teams suffered heavy defeats on Saturday with the Saints losing to unbeaten top side Birchip Watchem by 183 points.
Charlton took on Calder United and was thumped by 116 points.
St Arnaud had no answer for Bulls spearhead Ben Edwards, who booted 15 goals to take him to 105 for the season.
Fellow forward Tom Gibson kicked seven goals as Birchip piled on 33.11 to the Saints’ 4.2.
An 11-goal first quarter for the Bulls set the tone for the match, with St Arnaud trailing by 65 points at the first change.
The Saints kicked two goals to the Bulls’ six in a much-improved second quarter but could only manage another single goal in the second half, while Birchip piled on an extra 16.
Lucas Bridger kicked two of St Arnaud’s goals to be among the team’s best players on the day.
Bailey Durward, Simon Elliott, Jay Kirkwood and Thomas Bertalli were also named among the better players.
The Saints face Boort this week, which needs to win to shore up fourth place and a finals’ berth, and then Wedderburn in the final round, which may be playing for a finals’ spot depending on this week’s results.
St Arnaud will be keen to send off departing senior coach Scott Driscoll with a couple of good performances.
Charlton found the going tough against second-placed Calder United after a competitive first quarter.
The Navy Blues trailed by 26 points at quarter-time, but the floodgates opened thereafter, with Calder kicking 15 goals to two in the following three quar ters.
Coach Mitch Collins was again the team’s best player as he heads towards a likely second club bestand-fairest award in succession.
Patrick Soulsby, Rhys Thomp son, Mason Heenan, Josh Har ris and Dan Whykes also battled hard for the Navies.
The goals were shared around between Isaac Bourke, Archer Patterson, Ben Xiriha and Harris.
Jack Excell kicked seven goals for the Lions on his return to the side, taking his tally to 51 for the season from 12 games.
Charlton faces the seemingly insurmountable task of taking on unbeaten Birchip Watchem this week at Charlton Park.
The last match of the season is away at Boort, which is likely to have sewn up a finals berth by then, and may not have a great deal to play for.
Anthon Walklate received life member ship of the Navies on Saturday.
Unbeaten season continues
CHARLTON remains undefeated and on top of the North Central hockey underage competition ladder after defeating Calder United 3-1 on Saturday.
Murphy Fitzpatrick was among the Navies’ better players and also slotted two goals.
The team’s other goal was scored by Megg Fitzpatrick.
Charlton is poised to play finals in the underage, under 12 and women’s competitions this season.
St Arnaud Primary School hockey team members Chaise Buttery, Chad Polkinghorne, Kayne Williams, Eloise Green, Isobel Green, Torah Watts, Alvie Dix, Georgie Mactaggart and Brandon James under Coaches Melissa Weir and Riley Burke on were undefeated in Dimboola for the Black Ranges Hockey 7s and will contest the regional finals in Horsham on Tuesday.
HEAVENLY PAIR
Praise for Driscoll as Saints go for new team in 2026
ST ARNAUD will part ways with senior football coach Scott Driscoll and will move to a co-coach structure next season.
Harley Durward and Darby Schiller will take over the reins after Driscoll’s two-year tenure.
The Saints have struggled in 2025, with just two wins on the board and matches to come against North Central league mid-tier sideds Boort and Wedderburn.
Both victories have been against Donald, which is winless for the season.
St Arnaud also won only two games in 2024.
“Harley’s a local lad … he’s stayed loyal throughout some tough times, where others may have decided to up and leave,” club president Bruce Hando said.
“He’s passionate about our club, passionate about his mates, his teammates, and is eager to be a major player in seeing the Saints push through those tough times.”
Hando, in an online announcement Sunday night, said Schiller had a clear idea of the direction the club needed to take.
“The leadership he can provide, by way of his experiences at VFL level at both Werribee and the Cats, will prove to be a tremendous asset for our playing group, and club.”
Durward said he was realistic about the task ahead.
“We aren’t blind about the fact that we’re coming in at a challenging time, but the hunger to get back to where we belong, and
By GARY WALSH
the clearly evident potential that our group has, excites us both.”
Durward paid tribute to Driscoll.
“I have been extremely fortunate that the club gave me two years of coaching exposure in the Under 17s, and that ‘Disco’ (Driscoll) took me on as an assistant coach this year,” HE said.
Schiller also had praise for the departing coach.
“What ‘Disco’ has put in place, and the steps he’s taken for our club in the past two years, has provided a great stepping stone for what both Harley and myself envision is the direction we want to go next year.”
Durward said he was looking forward to coaching in tandem with Schiller.
“Darby is a great fit for where I see the direction of this club going – with his football experience, his knowledge for the game, I can’t wait to work alongside him.
“His experience within the VFL system, the processes and the standards will prove invaluable to our club.
“We have a great group of players and people around our club, who we can see want better –they want results.
“It’s not just the executive and committee, it’s not just the coaches, and it’s not just the players, but our entire club as a whole want to see this turn around and are invested in us doing so.
“That in itself, is going to make for a very exciting year.”
NAVIES’ GLORY: History was celebrated with the popping of champagne and the launch of a book on the history of Charlton Netball Club during Saturday’s reunions for the three sporting codes. The book was launched by Betty Coles, the only living member of the 1953 team that played in the North Central league for the first time, with the help of NetSetGo player Maisie Judd, great grand-daughter of Kathleen Noonan who was the side’s inaugural captain. Betty played for seven years, including one grand final “that we lost by a goal” and says today’s game is faster and more flowing than the style more than 70 years ago.
