Thursday 13th March 2025

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St. Arnaud, Charlton, Wedderburn & Surrounding Districts

Est. 1864

18 Napier Street, St. Arnaud. 3478. - Advertising & Editorial Material - Ph.: (03) 5495 1055; Fax.: (03) 5495 1937. Email: ncn@iinet.net.au Published weekly.

Registered by Australia Post, Publication No. VAC 4217.

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THURSDAY MARCH 13th 2025.

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

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Bureaucratic power struggle ends Esoteric Music Festival IT was a comedy without any fun for the festival goers and all the vendors that had banked on the 2025 Esoteric Music Festival going ahead after the Buloke Shire Council voted to approve a one year planning permit, against the recommendation from the planning office, only three days before the festival was to go ahead. The Buloke Shire’s approval was subject to 47 conditions.

Above: On again/off again decisions were far from this mind working on preparations for a music festival that did not eventuate.- PHOTO: Facebook

However, the next day, the festival’s application for a Place of Public Entertainment (POPE-OP) was refused by the Council’s Municipal Building Surveyor, citing 33 grounds of refusal.

The 2025 Esoteric Music Festival was to be held in Donald from 6th to 11th March 2025.

Whilst a planning permit was granted, the grounds for the refusal is the question said Buloke Shire Mayor Cr. Alan Getley.

On what these conditions were, Cr Getley said that changes were made to the kitchen due to last year’s gastro outbreak.

“Toilets were not a big issue.”

“Some of these [conditions] relate to structures that were not given a building permit so the Municipal Building Surveyor felt that they

Below: This drone shot shows some of the festival goers who camped at Lake Wooroonook, determined to not let the cancellation totally ruin their weekend.

PHOTO: Facebook/bulokelife.com

could not guarantee the structure.

“We are extremely disappointed that the festival was cancelled.

On further questioning Cr Getley agreed that council had been working as hard as they could to have the festival go ahead.

Cr Getley also said that it appears that bureaucracy has had the final say here.

“We appealed to the Minister for Development Victoria Harriet Shing and the Minister for L ocal Government Nick Staikos but neither was prepared to intervene.

“The State Government has just walked away.

“It was too hard.”

“Worksafe inspected the site and the structures yesterday [Thursday last week] and passed it all” Cr Getley said.

“I was in Donald this morning and quite a few were gathered there, so let’s hope they spent some money in town and businesses

can recoup some of what they lost.” “So it appears that bureaucracy has won again” he said.

All structures had been approved by the licensed engineers and verified by independent and licensed building surveyors.

Cr Getley confirmed that as well as Worksafe and Energy Safe Victoria deeming the site safe, the festival organisers had been working closely with the relevant authorities including t h e E PA , H e a l t h Department, Ambulance Victoria, CFA, and Victoria Police who all consented for the event to go ahead.

The POPE-OP is a requirement under the Building Act 1993 and is not a decision that can be overturned.

The decision to refuse the POPE-OP aligns with the concerns raised by Council officers in their recommendation to refuse the planning permit application.

These include ongo-

Above: this snap from the Esoteric Music Festival’s website says it all. ing safety compliance concerns as well as the lack of adherence to last year’s POPE-OP. The Event organisers made an appeal to the State Building S u r v e y o r, S t e v e n Baxas, to intervene.

The State Building S u r v e y o r, has expressed his support for the decision to refuse to issue a POPE-OP. With the POPE-OP application refused, the event organisers had been advised to cancel the event.

Ticket holders were advised to not attend the event as the event did not have the required approvals and to contact the event organisers for more information.

Statement from the Festival organisers After many patrons were queued for up to 8 hours without any

information as to the festival’s fate, Sam Goldsmith Managing Director Esoteric Music Festival, in a statement expressed their utter devastation at cancellation of the event.

“To say we are disappointed is an understatement – we are gutted.

“This is a devastating blow for all involved – from our patrons to the local businesses that have been planning for this all year.

“It is bureaucracy and politics gone mad” he said.

“Despite overwhelming evidence that the Esoteric Music Festival is safe and compliant to run, we have been lef t stunned by the decision of the Municipal Building Surveyor not to grant a POPE permit and will now have to postpone the festival until 2026.

•Continued pg. 3.

Alliance of Councils to discuss impact on communities of renewables FIVE Councils have formed an Alliance after meeting to discuss the impact on their communities of Transmission Lines, Renewable Energy and Mining. Councillors and CEOs from Northern Grampians, Buloke, Gannawarra, Loddon, and Yarriambiack Shire Councils, along with representatives from the Municipal Association of Victoria and Rural Councils Victoria met in Charlton last week to discuss the ongoing impact of transmission lines, renewable energy developments and mining.

These Councils encompass areas in the planned route for the Victoria to New South Wales Interconnector (VNI West) transmission line and represent 12.5% of Victoria’s land mass.

Buloke Shire hosted the meeting after a suggestion from the Northern Grampians Shire to try and explore common ground on transmission and renewables challenges all Councils in the W i m m e r a , Mallee/Loddon region have been facing over recent years.

"We have common issues of serious concern in respect of major proposed transmission lines and the large number of renewable developments.

“These concerns include the impact on our acute housing shortage during the construction boom, the lack of social licence which has alienated many farmers, the environmental impact, the detrimental impact on roads and the impost this has had on Council resourcing.

“We realise we will have a stronger voice if we work together rather than individually." said spokesperson Mayor Alan Getley of Buloke Shire Council.

An outcome of the meeting is the formation of a working group with representatives of each Council present on the day.

Is this Nanny State Victoria?

THERE are many Victorian laws that we would fit naming the state a "nanny state" as in Australia the term is used to describe laws that some say restrict personal freedom. These laws include health and safety regulations, bicycle helmet laws, lockout laws, seat belt laws, plain cigarette packaging, compulsory seat belts to name just a few.

We say perhaps people need to be regulated to help themselves.

That certainly is the case for the tobacco industry rules (plain cigarette packaging) not to mention the use of taxes and excise on cigarettes.

Protection of the vulnerable and Australia is known for its tough stance on investing in programs that help people live healthier and longer lives.

So where do we draw the line when it comes to the labeling of this state as a nanny state?

Certainly moves to encourage healthier lifestyles or prevent accidents can be seen as overbearing rules that impinge on personal freedoms.

Attempts to improve public health have long been seen as infringing civil liberties, but once these nanny state rules and regulations start, they save lives and become such a normal part of daily life that we take them for granted.

Although seat belts had been fitted to new Australian cars by the 1960s, and despite education campaigns, most people were not wearing them in the 1960s.

With a increasing road toll the Victorian government were called upon to investigate solutions, and evidence showed that seat belts could reduce road deaths and injuries.

So as a result in 1970, Victoria made it compulsory to wear seat belts if they were fitted in a car.

Is that being a nanny state?

The public quickly accepted the new rules Qld and car design adapted to include seat belts in A 4217 new models.

Only a quarter of people in Melbourne wore seat belts before the law was introduced. One 1 800 652 284 month in and half the community was belting F up.

Once police started E prosecuting motorists for not wearing a belt, three-quarters of motorists were following the law.

Victoria’s road death toll fell 10% in the first year, a result that prompted the rest of Australia to make seat belts compulsory in 1972.

By 1977 90% of people wore seat belts and by 2013, 97% of Australians reported wearing a belt when they travelled in the front seat.

These laws saved Australian lives, is there anything really wrong with that? Another community health initiative is the childhood immunisation programs.

Another is bicycle and motorcycle helmet regulations, another is retardant children’s nightwear, another is shatterproof safety glass Ted Whillier for showers.

C Others, regarding drinking and smoking are Peta Mandrakas random breath testing, imposition of speed limits, public smoking bans, minimum legal C drinking age and mandatory smoke alarms.

Even though there were protests that police stopping and testing potentially innocent motorists was an invasion of individual rights, eventually most people thought testing should continue and today there is almost unanimous support for random breath testing.

With tobacco the greatest cause of ill health and death in Australia and each year smoking kills huge numbers of Australians, there has been success in reducing smoking rates by education, such as Quitlines. However, these are together with legislative changes, including restrictions on smoking in work places, hotels, banning advertising and taxation that aim at making smoking less attractive. To increase the prominence of on-pack health warnings, the Federal Government ruled cigarettes must have plain packaging. The tobacco industry and some other sections of the public strongly opposed plain packaging with the cry being the ‘infringement of rights’.

However, a year af ter the laws were introduced, almost half of smokers supported plain packaging.

Page 2 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, THURSDAY MARCH 13th 2025.

Editorial

18 Napier St., St. Arnaud, Victoria 3478.

Phone: (03) 5495 1055; Email: ncn@iinet.net.au St. Arnaud, Charlton & surrounding districts

N.C.N. INFORMATION

Evidence today suggests plain packaging laws are reducing the appeal of cigarette packs, particularly to adolescents and young people.

This week however we saw where the nanny state laws stretched further than health and general safety to the granting of a planning permit to the Esoteric Music Festival.

Many people may have no interest in this festival, but there are many that do and there are many that rely on the festival to produce income from, many that had plans that were thwarted only hours from the start of the festival.

At what point does granting planning permit D become more than just a piece of paper?

The answer to this is – when Qld bureaucracy gets A 4217 by the law way out of hand and when abiding becomes so difficult that people find ways 1 800 652 284 around it.

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North Central News is published weekly by Peter Marland, 3279 Charlton/St. Arnaud Road, Slaty Creek for NCNews Pty. Ltd., 18 Napier Street, St. Arnaud. A.C.N. 146 461 903. Printed by Western District Newspaper P/L, Camperdown Vic. Registered by Australia Post Publication No. VAC 4217 - Recommended and maximum selling price only.

The North Central News is 100% locally owned, independent newspaper, established in 1864. With a circulation of 1,400 copies, and an estimated readership of over 3,500 throughout the Northern Grampians and Buloke Shires.

SUBSCRIPTIONS Annual subscription for 12 months is only $141.00 (inc. GST), including postage and packaging.

ADVERTISING & COPY DETAILS Artwork, and all advertisements or alterations are to be submitted before 5.00pm Friday prior to publication.

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N.C.N. prefers advertisement and editorial copy to be typed or neatly hand-written to avoid being published incorrectly. We accept no responsibility for error or misspellings in illegible advertisement and editorial copy. © Copyright 2025

DISCLAIMER The views and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those held by the publisher or editor. The publisher and staff accept no liability for injury or losses which may occur as a result of information presented in this publication.

No. 10171

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ACROSS 1 Make suitable 5 Tree 9 Bring up 10 Of greater age 12 Gathering of witches 13 Month 14 Enemies 15 Auguries 16 Cut off 18 Comfort 20 Employer 21 Apprehended 23 Thrives 27 Token 29 Vocal sound 30 Send money 31 Intrigue 33 Copied 34 Zodiac sign 35 Prized fur 36 Sends out 37 Leave out 38 Female bird 39 Salamanders

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W

See this week’s solution on page 6.

DOWN 2 Male honey­bees 3 Like better 4 Singer 5 Rubber 6 Sullenly ill­ humoured 7 Not working 8 Head of state 11 Citrus fruit 16 Imagined guilty 17 Power of rejection 19 Weapons 21 Prayer ending 22 Make neat 24 Commence 25 Language 26 Sanity 27 Sober 28 Small tool 30 Plant secretion 32 Lure

Bureaucratic power struggle ends Esoteric Music Festival • From page 1.

“Since 2017 this event has been a lifeline for Victoria’s regional tourism and live music scene, injecting more than $15 million into the local economy and supporting thousands of jobs in the Wimmera Mallee region.

“We implore all of our patrons, please hold onto your ticket for next year so that we can continue running this event and supporting Victoria’s northwest region as we have for the past eight years and will come back event stronger in 2026.

“Ticket holders will be communicated to directly about the postponement of the festival and offered a full refund if they can’t make the next event.

“Buloke Shire Councillors voted in favour of granting a Permit on Monday with the fate of the festival resting on one person – the Municipal

Building Surveyor – who has not completed a site inspection since 2024.

“Whether it’s Esoteric M u s i c a l Fe s t i v a l o r Moomba, it is standard practice in the event industr y for this particular permit to get approved in the hours before the event given the tight timelines to get the right infrastructure in place.

“We have held urgent meetings with the Premier of Victoria and the Minister for Housing and tried everything to get this year’s event over the line and we are just completely shattered that this has come down to one person’s subjective decision.

“From the perspective of a food vendor, they have lost money on food, staff costs, accommodation costs, and the ability to earn an income for the week.

“On top of that is usually a huge fee to get into these events as a vendor.

“There is no way to recoup these costs.

“My heart goes out to those businesses not the organisers,” the statement read.

Patrons vent anger People were lined up for up to 8 hours at the site before they were told that the event was to be cancelled.

Some patrons were at a loss to know what to do as they were from Cyclone areas and could not return.

Others were in a state of shock.

Cars in a convoy travelled through St. Arnaud on Thursday night.

Social media was in an uproar with many comments from “disgraced humanity”, “So sad”, “comes down to one guy?”.

Some suggested violence and protest and others to “have a party in Donald”.

Some called for the reasons for the non-granting of the permit and another, “and

What happening over the weekend Someone on social media suggested “let’s do something”, “any smaller parties?”

So Lake Wooroon-ook was the scene for many of these disappointed patrons as well as Walkers Lake and other tourist spots in the district.

The Festival’s organisers urged followers to hang on to their tickets for the 2026 festival, but with no guarantees in place who will do so and who will be the big losers from this debacle.

Above: Aerial view of the site of the proposed Esoteric Music Festival.

- PHOTO: Facebook.

BULOKE Shire has recently received a burst of entrepreneurial energy, hosting a dynamic online luncheon 3-day event last month that attracted 26 forward-thinking participants from across the shire and beyond.

In the past few weeks, one of my roles as mayor has been to visit local businesses with our CEO, Brent McAlister. I have had the pleasure of connecting with local businesses and groups, which has been both rewarding and insightful.

I had the wonderful opportunity to celebrate my parents' 60th wedding anniversary by presenting them with a bunch of flowers on behalf of council.

This was a moment of pride for me as mayor and I was thrilled to honour their commitment to each other during such an amazing milestone.

I also recently took part in an online Thriving Regions workshop. A key takeaway was the power of community collaboration. When people come together, incredible things happen.

It is always inspiring to see how our community can rally together to achieve common goals.

Another standout was attending the opening of the Great Western Football Netball Club rooms.

It was a proud moment, especially given my father once coached at the club.

It brought back many fond memories of my younger years, and the football matches I attended in Great Western. I am proud of what we have all been able to achieve as a community, and I know the new clubrooms will service the

Even conspiracy theories, “maybe they cancelled it all last minute so people would get there and have to go spend the money in town rather than having multiple days’ notice ahead and not driving into Donald”.

Online Launchpad Workshops stimulate local business ideas

Mayoral report . . .

Northern Grampians

We chat about how things are going, discuss their current situation and explore how the council can best support them moving forward.

These conversations, which touch on everything from economics to community matters, are always so engaging. It makes me realise how lucky Northern Grampians Shire is to have such diverse and successful businesses that we can help nurture and grow.

This month, I had the pleasure of meeting with six businesses, and each conversation has left me even more inspired by the innovation and drive in our community.

I find great value in learning about the services and products our local businesses offer, while networking and offering advice about how council can support them.

I had the privilege of attending the CWA East Wimmera Group AGM and Autumn Conference. I was deeply impressed by the incredible women I met and learnt from, and I look forward to continuing to support their efforts in the future.

On a personal note,

this is why I can’t stand politics”.

Cr Karen Hyslop Mayor Northern Grampians Shire Council region well for many years to come. In addition to these events, I have been busy advocating for our Halls Gap businesses. Many were severely impacted by the fires, facing significant revenue loss and ongoing struggles with economic recovery.

Council and Grampians Wimmera Mallee Tourism have been advocating for category ‘D’ funding, which is crucial for our businesses’ financial recovery. We are determined to continue our efforts until we receive definitive answers from the State Government about available support.

Halls Gap has had a rough time, but I want to encourage all of you to visit and support the region.

The Grampians are looking stunning, and now is the perfect time to explore.

The gathering served as a vibrant launching pad for innovative ideas— from creative start-up names and medical support initiatives for rural areas to community volunteer projects.

“These lunch-andlearn events were all about sparking creativity and providing the support needed to turn innovative ideas i n t o r e a l i t y, ” s a i d Buloke Mayor Cr Alan Getley.

“Sometimes, all it t a ke s i s a l i t t l e momentum and a supportive environment to transform a concept into a thriving business or project.”

Participants had the opportunity to explore their ideas, receive expert guidance, and build connections that will help propel their ventures forward.

The M a ke A Change Program, delivered by Jumpleads, is renowned for creating a collaborative atmosphere and have a strong understanding of the needs of the Buloke community.

“It comes at a time that our community is needing a boost, recognising the

importance of community and support in driving the future of business innovation across Victoria,” added the Mayor.

“We are pleased to be able to offer this opportunity under the Victorian and Australian Government’s Community Recover y Program and look forward to hearing more about some of the innovative projects that have moved ahead as a result of this initiative.”

Above: Buloke Mayor Cr Alan Getley.

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NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, THURSDAY MARCH 13th 2025 - Page 3

St. Arnaud 100 Years Ago: 6th – 12th March 1925 Coonooer Bridge Sports The annual sports day [mainly horse races] was held in Mr J Williams’ paddock near the bridge.

Winners of the various races are listed below.

Maiden Plate C McKew’s ‘Lil’ rider J Hoye.

Maiden Trot C Stephenson’s ‘Molly’ driven by owner.

Novelty Pony Race R McQueen’s ‘Golden

Fly’ rider owner.

Open Handicap Trot C Stephenson’s ‘Molly’ driven by owner.

Coonooer Bridge Handicap W Cameron’s ‘Red Gum’ rider owner.

Hack Race P McKew’s ‘Betty’ rider S McQueen 1st, P O’Donohue’s ‘Hilo Girl’ rider M Hoye 2nd, H O’Donohue’s ‘Prestige’ rider R Cadzow 3rd.

Handicap Wood Chop – 12 inch red gum logs, held over two heats and a final C Wright 1st in 33 secs,

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

and 2nd E Carlyon and T Fraser dead heat while others who competed in the wood chop were W Palmer, R Shiells, S Wright and L Perkins.

A ball was held at night with music by Miss R Scarce [piano] and Mr T O’Shannessy [violin].

Traders Association At the annual meeting I J T Grigg was elected President, W R Sloane Vice-President, F Dower Secretary and Treasurer with Committee members J Lorimer, M P Kelly, R J Coath, T Giles, H Murrells, H J Rowe, J Crone, S Bray, J Fay, and R J Cooper.

The Association still oppose granting Saturdays as a half day holiday as Napier St is usually busy all day, however they agree the projected extension of the water scheme at Mt Teddington is deserving of support.

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During February 35 patients were admitted, 38 discharged, and 2 deaths.

Matron Wall is still on leave after a throat operation but is expected to return soon.

Nurse A Campbell has been appointed Sister and probationer Smith has resigned.

Probationers A Weidman of Marnoo and Lily Anderson of Moonambel will be appointed as soon as a vacancy arises.

Fourth year probationers will now receive 25/- per week.

Hospital Sunday This week the St. Arnaud Band raised £26/2/- at Gre Gre Village, the Donald Band raised £36 at Jeffcott and the Birchip Band raised £27 at Curyo, £70 at

Page 4 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, THURSDAY MARCH 13th 2025.

Watchupya and £16 at Kinnabulla.

Wedding On 7th March former St. Arnaud residents Albert Englemann of Walpeup and Ruby Donnelley were married at Albert Park with bridesmaids Emily and Winifred Englemann and bestman Ross Munro and groomsman Herbert Donnelley.

Death Mrs Jane Miller, widow of Dave Miller,

one time engineer at the Lord Nelson mine died in Melbourne and was buried at Bealiba.

Fire Brigade St. Arnaud was awarded 2nd honors for discipline [B Grade] at the annual Country Fire Brigades demonstration held at Warrnambool.

Business Announcement Mr C Kearnan has opened a special ladies parlor at his hairdressing estab-

lishment in the Mercury Building, Napier St.

Sales As he is moving to Queensland Mr T B Archer of Millett St sells his furniture, which he purchased new, six months ago.

A clearing sale at Logan for Mr C E McNaulty included 320 sheep, 10 horses, harness and implements.

Oswald Brown sells 320 acres at Banyena, known as Traynors

by Heather Pritchard Lagoon Paddock Thomas J Bath sold 1,000 sheep at a clearing sale held for W Hall at Beazleys Bridge.

A Clearing sale was held at Paradise for W H Wiltshire Esq who has sold his 1,064 acres to W J Clarke of St. Arnaud.

Mrs G Florence White has leased for 5 years 1,800 acres, homestead, outbuildings etc at Dooboobetic to Burge Bros at 18/- per annum.

Garden’s Gala Day calls for goodies THE Friends of the Queen Mary Botanic Gardens will hold its Gala Day on Saturday, March 22nd in the Gardens from 9 am.

This major fundraiser has become an annual fixture in the town’s calendar with all money raised being devoted to the restoration and improvement of our Botanic Gardens and Pioneer Park.

Its a friendly family event for all ages with a lot of interest.

In the past the Friends have paid for fence around the pond and along the main drain, the installation of new lighting, purchased and planted out shrubs and perennials in beds along the main path, and have sourced funding from the St Arnaud Sporting Club for the restored planting of the Palm collection.

The old bowling green corner has had new seating installed and the friends are also looking forward to contributing to further plantings on this site and funding an inclusive natural playspace along the inner side of this corner.

The past year the Friends have contributed in excess of 25K for the erection of the major brick sign at the Kings Ave entrance to the town to showcase the beautiful gardens in keeping with the heritage precinct.

There will further arbors built on the McMahon street entrance and the Inglewood road side of the garden so there is a lot to come to keep this beautiful space the asset it is.

So, come along on Saturday morning and enjoy Morning Tea under the shade of the trees and make some purchases of locally raised plants, produce, books and enjoy the stallholders and displays.

This year the raffle prize will be a heavy

duty garden trolly, and tickets will be on sale on the day in the gardens.

Friends President, Lyn Box, has appealed to all St. Arnaud’s garden lovers to continue their traditional support for

the Gala Day, both by attending and by donating goods for sale.

‘Plants, jams and pickles, fresh vegetables, books, cakes, are all welcome additions to the stalls,’ she said.

‘In fact, we are prepared to sell virtually anything to benefit the gardens.’

Goods may be left at

the Mechanics Institute on the afternoon prior to the Gala Day, or brought along on the morning.

For those wanting to set up a stall or needing help with collection of goods please contact Lyn on 54 951 167 or 0408 951 167, or Ros Small on 54 998 250 or 0437 698 250.

‘Bridget Jones: Mad about the boy’ THIS weekend at The Rex sees the delightful Bridget Jones back on screen in this, the fourth movie outing of the much-loved character.

Bridget Jones (Renee Zellweger), now a widowed single mother, navigates the challenges of parenthood, work, and modern dating with the support of her friends, family, and former partner, Daniel Cleaver.

As she re-enters the dating world, she finds herself pursued by a younger man while also forming an unexpected connection with her son's science teacher.

After Mark (Colin Firth) was killed on a humanitarian mission in the Sudan, Bridget is now a single mother to Billy and Mabel, and is stuck in a state of emotional limbo.

Heading back to work and even trying out the dating apps, Bridget is soon pursued by a dreamy and enthusiastic younger man Roxster (Leo Woodall).

Bridget grapples with the judgment of the perfect mums at school, worries about Billy as he struggles with the absence of his father, and engages in a series of awkward interactions with her son’s rational-to-a-fault science teacher (Chiwetel Ejiofor).

“Like a big comforting hug” is how one reviewer praised the movie, as old friends return and try to get Bridget back on track.

The movie also packs an emotional

punch, giving Bridget a deeper emotional appeal - so be prepared for tears as well as laughs.

With the main cast returning, including Jim Broadbent, Emma Thompson and Isla Fisher, this A-lister ensemble to guide the story to its final conclusion.

- Contributed “Mad About the Boy” is a great rom-com pic, so grab a group of friends and settle in for some genuine movie entertainment.

“Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy” (M125 minutes) screens at The Rex on Saturday 15th March at 8pm, Sunday 16th March at 2pm and Tuesday 18th March at 8pm.

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NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, THURSDAY MARCH 13th 2025 - Page 5

East Wimmera CWA report EAST Wimmera CWA recently held their AGM and Autumn Conference at Marnoo.

A good attendance of members from the 7 branches of the group attended.

Cr Karen Hyslop opened the conference and gave us some background in to her time as a Councillor.

Our Guest Speaker for the day was Deputy State President Ms. Sarah Barnbook who took the chair for the

election of the new office bearers.

Mrs. Barbara Douglass of Bealiba Branch was elected East Wimmera Group President for the coming year.

Her secretary will be Ms. Liz Richardson of the Cabbaritta Branch.

Our outgoing Group President Pam

Resident questions council’s funding and policy THE last Northern Grampians Shire Council meeting was held in St. Arnaud last week and public question time contained questions from residents.

Mr Ross Hudson queried how much council has been funded by VicHeath for how many hours per week is the Youth Engagement Officer employed for.

Secondly, he asked whether council had

Solution No. 10171 A D A P T E L M I P R R E A R O L D E R C O V E N A P R I L E N F O E S O M E N S S E V E R E A S E I U S E R A R R E S T E D S T M M R E P R O S P E R S S I G N E T O N E R E M I T C A B A L A P E D M T A R I E S S A B L E E M I T S O M I T E D T H E N N E W T S

been funded for and how many hours per week is the Family Prevention Officer employed.

Lastly, Mr Hudson’s third question was regarding the council’s ‘Working from home’ policy and how many staff employed work from home and what would the percentage be of total staff positions.

The Mayor Cr Hyslop advised Mr Hudson that his questions would be taken on notice and a written response provided.

These will be provided when to hand.

Brightwell and her Secretary Jenny Lovel were thanked for their tireless work over the past 2 years.

The secretaries of each branch gave a 2minute report of their branch activities for the past 12 months.

The book of Honour for the best report was won by Marnoo.

Secretar y Jess Hodder accepted the book of Honour and then read her full report.

These reports are swapped with other Group Presidents at State Council who pick the winner.

All group winners will be judged at a higher level to decide who wins the State Award.

This will be announced at the State Conference in May. Following a delicious lunch provided

by Marnoo members the Autumn Conference was held.

Our Present Group President Pam gave her final report of the activities held recently.

Group Craft Leader Barb Douglass gave us all the relevant information on the upcoming Group Craft Exhibition to be held at St. Arnaud on May 2nd and 3rd and hosted by Marnoo.

Sally Wright has been elected as the next Group Craf t L eader to replace Barbara Douglass following the Group Exhibition.

- Contributed Deputy State President Sarah then spoke of the activities at Headquarters, including the reopening of the B&B at Toorak and encouraged members to attend the State Conference at Shepparton on May 30-31st.

The State Craf t Exhibition will be held at Kyabram in August.

Competition winners were announced and the day concluded with a wonderful afternoon tea and social time.

East Wimmera members attended the Wimmera Field days recently and helped Central Wimmera Group man the CWA Stall in the Lifestyle Pavilion.

Members demonstrated Crafts and had various craft items and merchandise for sale.

Above: Pam Brightwell promoting CWA at the Field Days.

Above: (left to right) Marg Shaughnessy President of Marnoo, Liz Richardson, Barb Douglass, Pam Brightwell, Sarah Barnbook Deputy State President and Jenny Lovel.

ST. ARNAUD BLINDS We are NOW based in your area FOR ALL TYPES OF INDOOR AND OUTDOOR BLINDS, SECURITY DOORS AND FLYSCREENS, ALUMINUM ROLLER SHUTTERS AND PLANTATION SHUTTERS Free measure and quote at your request.

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TRUE BLUE FLOORS Ric Lang Owner operator

Open Wednesday to Sunday

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Your local option for commercial & residential solar installations Phone: 5495 1449 107 NAPIER STREET, ST. ARNAUD

Page 6 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, THURSDAY MARCH 13th 2025.

Charlton 100 Years Ago: 7th – 11th March 1925 Mean Theft Mr Ernest Smith, of Armstrong St, was the victim of a mean theft when he discovered that the sum of £12, which was located in a teapot on the mantleshelf of his bedroom, had gone missing.

The room had been entered and ransacked, drawers being left open, and books and other articles strewn all over the place.

On the following morning a piece of deal board that had been pointed (possibly with idea of forcing the window) was found.

The matter was reported to the police.

Busy “Bee” February 27 was the date of the annual Picnic Day allotted to the employees of Messrs Noske Bros Pty Ltd and the mill closed at noon on Friday, giving the staff a week-end.

Excellent use of their holiday was made by some members of the staff, who proceeded to the site of the new swimming pool below the Weir, and removed all obstacles in the middle of the river at that spot.

This made that part of the river accessible for swimming and paddling, and greatly improved the general appearance of the vicinity.

In the meantime a dressing shed had been erected by members of the Progress Association.

The First Charlton Troop of Boy Scouts visited the pool and spent a profitable time in the progress of the natatorial art.

Woosang Prior to her wedding, Miss Lexie Dawson White was entertained by the residents of Woosang and District, and friends of Yeungroon at the Woosang Hall.

Tributes to the excellent qualities of the guest were paid and Cr Donaldson made the presentation to Miss White of a beautiful and suitably inscribed silvermounted oak salad bowl and service.

A pleasing concert programme followed.

The supper was a

SUDOKU SOLUTION

credit to the ladies of the district.

For the dance which followed, music was provided by local ladies and gentlemen.

New Café Mrs J. E. Pollard is to establish a new, up-todate and well appointed luncheon and tea rooms in High St. For two or three years past, Mrs Pollard, whose husband’s farm is situated between Glenloth and Wycheproof, has felt that there was a good opening for a venture on the lines indicated, and the Piccadilly Café (adjacent to the Globe Hotel), will be opened on Saturday afternoon next.

All butter, eggs, milk, cream, etc, will come from the farm referred to, and home-made cakes, scones, sandwiches, ice cream, sundaes, cool drinks, etc, will be found very appetising.

Grills and fries will be served at 1/6; fish at 1/9; and cold luncheon at 1/6.

“Civility, cleanliness and smart service” will be the motto.

having the opportunity to honor esteemed and respected citizens, mingled in the breasts of the residents of Yeungroon and the surrounding district when Mr and Mrs D. J. McGillivray and family; and Mr and Mrs Frank Sturrock and family, were entertained to a farewell evening in the Yeungroon Hall.

Warm tributes to the guests were paid and presentations as follows: To Mr D. J. McGillivray, gold-mounted pipe.

To Mrs McGillivray, solid leather suit case.

To children, Master Neil, gold mounted fountain pen; Effie, box of blocks; baby Eva a doll.

To Mr Frank Sturrock, gold mounted pipe.

To Mrs Sturrock, travelling rug.

To children, Master Wallace, football; baby Merlyn, silver rattle. A musical programme, splendid repast and an enjoyable dance concluded a memorable evening.

(Information from East Charlton Tribune)

- by Charlton Golden Grains Museum

Above: Piccadilly Cafe

Pioneer Passes The death occurred on Friday at her residence In High St, of an old and highly respected citizen of the town, in the person of Mrs Jeanie Jenkins, relict of the late Mr George Jenkins.

Born in the Burns’ country, at Kilmarnock, Ayrshire, in December 1845, deceased, in company with her father and sisters emigrated to Victoria, to join her brother on land at Geelong.

They journeyed on the sailing ship “Eagle,” a voyage of 101 days.

They resided in Drysdale for many years and then went to Miners’ Rest.

When land was thrown open for selection around Dooboobetic over 50 years ago, they selected land and resided there for about 10 years.

Following that a move was made to Charlton, where deceased had resided for more than 40 years.

She had reached the advanced age of 80.

She was the loving mother of Agnes, Elizabeth, Mary, Annie, George, Albert, Robert and William.

Friends farewelled Regret at impending loss, and pleasure at

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, THURSDAY MARCH 13th 2025 - Page 7

In The Paddock

Your best year farming yet BIRCHIP Cropping Group (BCG)s annual Trials Review Day, supported by the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund, delivered cuttingedge research and expert insights to help growers make informed decisions for the upcoming season in Birchip on 21st February.

CEO Fiona Best, posed the question “What can farmers do in 2025 to make it the best year of their farming career?”

She encouraged the audience to use the information presented as an opportunity to discuss the year ahead with fellow farmers and industry representatives to help develop strategies and action points for their own farms.

The event covered key topics such as variety selection, weed management, crop water use efficiency and business operating efficiency, featuring BCG staff and external industry experts Dr Kenton Porker (CSIRO), Dr Grant Hollaway (Astute Ag), Peter Newman (Planfarm Advisory) and Mark Congreve (ICAN Rural).

The members-only event attracted 150 growers, advisors, and industry representatives eager to gain insights from the latest research conducted across North West Victoria.

“Trials Review Day is a unique opportunity for growers to access independent, regionally relevant research that directly informs onfarm decisions,” said BCG Senior Manager of Extension and Communications, Grace Hosking.

“With so many variables influencing farm businesses, practical, science backed insights are invaluable.”

Soil moisture: more than just last year’s rain Agriculture Victoria’s Dale Boyd highlighted that moisture reserves from previous seasons can significantly contribute to crop yields.

“It’s not just last year’s moisture, but could be the year before, that is contributing to crop yield”, he explained, reinforcing the importance of understanding soil moisture availability at different depths within the soil profile.

Variety selection and disease management Ultima grower Baden Grey found value in the variety sessions presented by BCG staff Ashlee Tierney, Anna Marcus and Matthew Lade: “We’ve made quite a few changes on farm this year, adopting Thunder lentils, some Shotgun wheat, and we’re growing canola for the first time in 11 years.

“All the BCG information is useful in decision making, especially around sowing time,” he said.

BCG unpacked the performance of wheat, barley, canola, and pulses under last season’s conditions.

Research Agronomist Anna Marcus is interested to assess the performance of

Shotgun over the next couple of years to see whether it really is the next Scepter.

“Shotgun has been the highest yielding variety for the North Central region for the two years it has been in the National Variety trials however, growers should assess variety performance over multiple seasons,” she stated.

Dr Grant Hollaway from Astute Agdiscussed cereal disease management, emphasising the importance of variety choice, inoculum levels and seasonal conditions..

“When these three factors align, disease pressure increases, making proactive management critical,” he said.

“Fungicide resistance is an industry -wide responsibility, and we are starting to see resistance issues across the region.

“Choosing varieties based on yield alone, without considering disease susceptibility, puts more pressure on fungicides and shortens their effectiveness.”

Maximising water use efficiency “The most important period of the year is the 20-30 days prior to and after flowering,” said CSIRO’s Dr Kenton Porker.

“We need to make sure our crop has everything it needs to grow like it should during the critical period.”

Dr Porker explored the benefits of sowing on time in marginal conditions and challenged growers to assess their confidence in sowing dry.

“The new winter wheat varieties can establish in May and still compete with spring wheats helping to spread risk with frost.”

Farm business resilience Peter Newman provided key insights into financial management and business resilience.

“Ever y season comes with its challenges, but there are always opportunities to improve business performance,” he stated.

“The decisions growers make in the good years has significant impacts on their business’s long-term performance.”

Noting some advice he once received was that a bad farmer might expand their way out of trouble, however Newman urged growers to look at operating efficiency and make sure that variable costs match farm income.

“Then look at below the line costs of finance, personal and machinery.”

BCG CEO Fiona Best highlighted the importance of Trials Review Day in bringing research outcomes to life for growers.

“Our goal is to ensure that farmers in the Wimmera and Mallee have access to the best available information to drive profitability and sustainability,” Best said.

“This event allows us to reflect on the past season, unpack what worked, what didn’t, and what growers can take for ward into their decision-making.”

For more details or to become a

LISTINGS WANTED Residential, Rural, Commercial & Leasing

This event was supported by the

Nutrien Harcourts Real Estate team Sharlene Bertalli: 0447 952 320 Damian Drum: 0428 952 284 13-19 Napier Street, St. Arnaud

Page 8 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, THURSDAY MARCH 13th 2025.

Resilience Practices Grant.

The Victoria Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub is a state-wide collaboration of 10 organisations.

TCV’s Transmission Licence sparks outrage THE Essential Services Commission’s (ESC) has granted an electricity transmission licence to Transmission Company Victoria (TCV), raising alarm bells for the local community.

Member for Western Victoria, Bev McArthur, questioned the Assistant Treasurer, calling it a “travesty of a decision”.

In Parliament, Mrs McArthur said the decision ignores not only the consultation responses from the community but the letter and the spirit of the rules.

“TCV has no intention whatsoever of transmitting electricity – it cannot and it will not.

“In fact as a wholly owned AEMO subsidiary, that would be completely inappropriate.

“This decision bends the rules, simply to allow TCV to exploit the law to force access to the 250 farms potentially affected by the VNI West project.”

The VNI West is a proposed new highcapacity overhead transmission line.

Tr a n s m i s s i o n Company Victoria (TCV) has been grant-

Week ending Wednesday March 5 2025

ed powers to enter farmers' properties without permission.

However, Western Victorian farmers are threatening to block access to their land needed for the project.

“Yet again, ministers are riding roughshod over existing rules to force through this unwanted ill-designed project,” Mrs McArthur continued.

“I ask the minister to request ESC reconsider this decision immediately.”

— By Glendon Hancock

THE Australian wool market has performed strongly in this series, recording price increases across all sectors.

The national offering reduced by 7,194 bales, there was 32,598 bales available nationally.

From the opening lots in the Eastern centres on the first day of selling, there was strong buyer interest across all wool types and descriptions, resulting in immediate price increases.

The market then slowly but consistently rose all the way to the final hammer in the Western region.

By the end of the day the individual Micron Price Guides (MPGs) for merino fleece had risen by between 17 and 53 cents across the three selling centres.

The crossbred, skirting and oddment sectors all recorded small increases.

The benchmark AWEX Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) rose by 22 cents, pushing back through the 1,200-cent barrier, closing

See your local

Phone: 5495 1722 13-19 Napier Street, ST. ARNAUD

Funding

Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund through the Victoria Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub and the Extension and Adoption of Drought

Research driving profitability

eID Sheep Tag Orders Nutrien St. Arnaud would like to advise our clients to place ELECTRONIC IDENTIFICATION (eID) (Sheep Tag) ORDERS before the end of March to avoid significant delays due to Cyclone Alfred and possible shortage of stock

BCG member, call (03) 5492 2787 or visit w w w. b c g . o r g . a u / memberships

the day at 1,217 cents.

This was the highest the EMI has been in the 2024/24 season and its highest point since January 2024 when the EMI hit 1,220 cents.

The price rises were heavily influenced by currency, so much so, that when viewed in US dollar terms the market dipped slightly.

The EMI lost one US cent for the day, finishing at 755 US cents.

This ended the run of EMI rises in both currencies, however it extended the run in AUD terms to four consecutive selling days of rises.

The second day the rises continued but at a much more subdued rate.

The merino fleece MPG movements ranged between unchanged and plus 24 cents.

The other three sectors

National Offering Centre North South West Total

Week 36 36 36

Days 4, 5 Mar., 4, 5 Mar., 4, 5 Mar.,

Offering 7,701 19,130 5,767 32,598

Future Offerings Week

37

11, 12 Mar.,

Source - AWEX

37,942

again posted small gains.

The EMI added a further 8 cents, closing the week at 1,225 cents.

The EMI is now sitting at its highest point since May 2023.

Next week the national offering is expected to rise, bolstered in part by the higher prices on offer in this series encouraging some sellers back to the market.

There are currently 37,942 bales on offer nationally.

Melbourne 1201L +30 16.5 1791 +43 17 1710 +43 17.5 1660 +50 18 1607 +49 18.5 1568 +59 19 1522 +43 19.5 1512 +43 20 1488 +40 21 1456 +28 22 1434n 23 24 25 711 +2 26 611 +11 28 427 +14 30 387 +10 32 338 +8 MC 733 +5 Ind.

Powerful stories a highlight of International Women’s Day events in St. Arnaud INTERNATIONAL Women’s Day has been marked internationally on 8th March since 1911 and involves celebrating women’s achievements, raising awareness about discrimination and taking action to forge gender parity.

This year, events in Northern Grampians Shire feature a ‘March For ward: For all Women and Girls’ theme.

Cr Hyslop said the St. Arnaud community was treated to ‘an inspiring celebration of women in sport, highlighting the progress made and the challenges still faced’.

Cr Hyslop officially opened the event, and her presence, along with that of Cr Jenny Greenberger, reinforced the importance of female representation in leadership and local government.

“We had a fantastic turnout of more than 70 guests,” Cr Hyslop said.

“The highlight of the evening was an engaging panel discussion featuring local women, who shared their experiences with football and the role it has played in their lives.

“Among them, Trina Summers and Megan Hortle reflected on the challenges they faced in the 1980s when they wanted to play but had no opportunities, as women’s football was virtually non-existent at the time.

“Their stories underscored just how much progress has been made – yet also how important it is to keep pushing for equality in sport.”

Cr Hyslop said guest speaker Abby Weir, who shared her experiences via a video recording, provided another powerful moment when she shared her remarkable journey of recovery after a car accident that threatened to end her ability to play football.

“Her unwavering determination and love for the game serve as a testament to the strength and perseverance of women in sport,” she said.

“Adding another important perspective, Abby’s mum, Melissa, spoke about her experience as a parent and the ongoing challenges female athletes still face, even in today’s era.”

The event concluded with a screening of Equal the Contest, a compelling documentar y about the Castlemaine Falcons and their fight to create and register a women’s football team.

The film sheds light on the systemic barriers that still exist and the importance of advocating for equal opportunities in sport.

“International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate progress, but also to acknowledge the work still to be done,” Cr Hyslop said.

“This event was a powerful reminder that through community

support, shared stories and continued advocacy, we can keep pushing for greater inclusion and equality in sport and beyond.”

Above: Mayor Karen Hyslop officially opens the St. Arnaud International Women’s Day event, in front of guest speakers, from left, Johanna Medlyn, Melissa Weir, Megan Hortle and Trina Summers.

Left: More than 70 people attended a powerful International Women’s Day event in St. Arnaud, celebrating women in sport.

A bolt from the blue Above: Fourteen year old Lachlan Bottriell took a great photo of a lightning strike outside his bedroom window this week, Monday night.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, THURSDAY MARCH 13th 2025 - Page 9

Friends of the St. Arnaud Queen Mary Botanic Gardens,

GALA DAY Saturday, 22nd March 2025 9am to 12noon in the Gardens Stallholders welcome - payment by donation Contact Lyn Box (54 951 167 or 0408 951 167) or Ros Small (5499 8250 or 0437 698 250) Donations of plants, books, produce, jams and cakes all gratefully received.

Phone Lyn or Ros for collection or deliver on the day from 7.30am.

or Chaat with a Councillo

WEDDERBURN PATCHWORK GROUP INC.

WANTED! Interested people to run The Wedderburn Community Christmas and Arts Festival 2025 Following our AGM the Wedderburn Patchwork Group Inc has decided we can no longer organise the festival due to numbers and age.

People or groups who would like to take on this role are invited to contact us to express interest.

Please contact Irene Finch on 0458 073 080 to receive support and documentation from previous Festivals.

Got a question? Got ideas?

Want a general chat?

Talk with Karen, local Councillor

WHATS ON

FIRST AID Course Thursday April 10th CPR HLTAID009 $85 per person HLTAID011 Provide First Aid $180 per person HLTAID012—Provide First Aid in the Education and Care Setting $230 Per Person Cheaper rates if you have a current certificate due for renewal.

MEETINGS

St. Arnaud & District Orchid Society Meeting on Friday the 14th March Time 7.00 pm for 7.30 Start At St Arnaud Senior Citizens 1A Golden Street St Arnaud 3478

AT YOUR SERVICE

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

Hayley:

0409 337 276, Luke:

0458 885 266 St. Arnaud Serenity Storage

Speaker: Roy Lee Visitors welcome

10:00am-approx 4:00pm

Solicitor 116 Napier St., St. Arnaud

Parkview Bakery, St Arnaud

Enrol and Pay By Friday 4th April (Limited Spaces)

******

St Arnaud Community Resource Centre

2-3pm Wednesday 19 March

Community workshop 5.30-7.30pm Thursday 20 March Town Hall, St Arnaud RSVP online or via Karen

0468 77 3478 KarenKaraKara @yahoo.com

85 Napier St Phone 5495 1997.

Open Hours: Mondays to Fridays: 9:00am-2:00pm. or Email at: stacrc@bigpond.net.au

Get it through our

WANTed ads!

St Arnaud Agricultural Society

AGM Wed. 2nd April 7.00pm at Lord Nelson Park Meeting/Canteen area.

All Welcome.

WANTED

(03) 5495 1055

POP UP CARAVAN

EMPLOYMENT 0418 304 930

AT YOUR SERVICE

HAY PROCESSING PLANT – ST ARNAUD, VIC

PLANT OPERATOR Gilmac, Australia's top hay exporter, handles a quarter of the country's hay exports across three states, with major markets in Japan, Korea, China and Taiwan.

As a Plant Operator, you will be instrumental in the hands-on operation and maintenance of our hay processing plant. Your responsibilities will include: • Running and maintaining the plant, ensuring optimal safety, quality, and performance.

• Setting up, operating, troubleshooting and maintaining both fixed and mobile plant equipment.

• Producing high-quality hay that meets our customers' needs and Gilmac’s safety, cost, and production targets.

• Maintaining the plant in optimal conditions and safely processing and packaging hay to export quality standards.

We provide comprehensive training in quality, safety, and hay processing operations to all our operators.

We are looking for applicants who: • Are committed to safety, quality, and preventative maintenance.

• Can legally work in Australia on a permanent basis.

• Are willing to work both day and night rotating 12-hour shifts for up to 5 consecutive days.

• Can pass a pre-employment medical, including a drug screen, and handle the physical demands of a hay environment.

Favourable consideration will be given to candidates with: • Strong literacy skills.

• Experience in fields such as agriculture or plant operation.

Job Vacancies Campus Negotiable • Nurse Practitioner (Rural Generalist) • Clinical Support Nurse Birchip • Food and Domestic Service Assistant St Arnaud • Education Coordinator • Quality and Risk Manager • 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.

Need Employees?

For this vacancy we are also looking for applicants who currently hold tickets, or who are willing to undertake training for forklift, telehandler and reach stacker. Initially this will be a key part of the role.

Advertise your position in the North Central News Employment Section

Resumes and queries to: carl.leach@gilmac.com.au or hr@gilmac.com.au

Phone: (03) 5495 1055

Page 10 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, THURSDAY MARCH 13th 2025.

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

Ph: 5495 2595 Karen@klp.net.au

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

Nicola Kirk Physiotherapist Over 17 years experience Open Mon to Fri 63 Napier Street, ST. ARNAUD

0400 451 432 or 5495 1108

EZARD (Lynch) - Vikki Anne Members of the St. Arnaud Angling Club extend their deepest condolences to our Club President and Life Member Wayne (Barney), Sandy, Kerrianne and families on the passing of Vikki.

We all hold special memories to cherish of times spent together.

CHURCH NOTICES

ST. ARNAUD CHURCH OF CHRIST

Charlton Film Festival with lots on offer CHARLTON Arts is thrilled to be hosting the annual Charlton Film Festival at the Rex Theatre on Friday 21st and Saturday 22nd March.

Cnr. Queens Ave & Alma St. Sharing faith in Christ Thurs. 13th March 10.30 a.m.: Faith Group Sun. 16th March 10.30 a.m.: Worship & Communion Speaker: Neale Postlethwaite Tues. 18th March 4.30 p.m.: Discovery Club for Grades 1-6 Enquiries: Sharon Douglas Ph: 0409 216 952

DISTRICT CATHOLIC CHURCHES East Wimmera Parish BIRCHIP Sunday March 16th 8.30am Mass BOORT Sunday March 16th 10.30am Live Stream in BANYENA No Mass CHARLTON Saturday March 15th 7.00pm Mass DONALD Sunday March 16th 10.30am Live Stream out to churches without Mass ST.ARNAUD Sunday March 16th 10.30am Live Stream in WYCHEPROOF Sunday March 16th 10.30am Live Stream in Parish Coordinator: Noeline Hogan 0476 617 976

The festival is being held later this year to avoid clashing with OK Motels, long weekends and other events.

Following a similar format to previous

CHURCH NOTICES ST. ARNAUD UNITING CHURCH Sunday 16th March ST. ARNAUD 9.30 am Geoff Postlethwaite Followed by pancake morning tea 11am - 12pm All Welcome.

PARISH OFFICE Chris & Rob Batters Pastorial Co-ordinators Enquiries 5495 6223 ANGLICAN PARISH OF ST. ARNAUD Christ Church Old Cathedral Friday 14th March 9.30am St. Arnaud 9.30am Every Sunday Eucharist 4pm Every 3rd Sunday Arise!- Renewal Service Bealiba 8am 2nd/4th Sunday All Welcome Rev. Peter Downes Enquiries phone: 0412 957 383

years, the festival will feature five films, including two suppers and a sumptuous lunch.

The candy bar will also be open to purchase popcorn and an ice cream—film watching essentials.

This year’s program includes five thoughtprovoking films.

On Friday night, ‘Lee’ will kick off the festival.

Kate Winslet leads this biopic as photographer Elizabeth ‘Lee” Miller, a fashion model who became an acclaimed war correspondent for Vogue magazine during World War Two. The Saturday program begins with

- Contributed ‘There’s Still Tomorrow’.

This Italian film is set in post-war Italy.

The family of typical housewife Delia is in turmoil over the impending engagement of beloved firstborn Marcella.

The arrival of a mysterious letter, however, will ignite Delia's courage to face her abusive husband and imagine a better future.

‘Sing Sing’ is a drama based on a true story following a prison theatre group that escapes the reality of incarceration through the creativity of staging a play. Oscar-nominee, Colman Domingo

(Rustin) leads the drama and the cast includes actors who have been incarcerated.

(Contains strong language) ‘The Pool’ is a documentary following a year in the life of the Bondi Icebergs, the most photographed pool in the world.

This is where generations of children have learnt to swim, where the diehard have braved the frigid waters of one hundred winters, and where the young and beautiful have come to bond and bake in the hot sun.

The festival finishes with ‘Saturday Night’.

Jason Reitman helms this depiction of the down-to-the-wire lead-up to the recording

of the very first episode of Saturday Night Live.

Set at 11:30pm on 11th October, 1975, the film follows a ferocious troupe of young comedians and writers in the 90 minutes leading up to a broadcast that would change television forever.

Festival Coordinator, Carolyn Olive, is confidant the program will have something to suit everyone.

However, selecting films has become more difficult.

“With many films appearing on streaming ser vices ver y quickly after their release or not having theatrical releases at all, it’s harder to find films that people haven't seen already or can easily

watch at home.

“I think there is also a bit of catching up happening from Covid and the writers’ strike.

“We also try to avoid films that have already screened at the Rex. “Many visitors see all five films, it can be tricky getting the balance right.

“Most people really come along not just for the films but for the atmosphere of the Rex Theatre, and the great food.”

Ticket prices range from $12 for a single film to $100 for the entire program, and are available from the Charlton Neighbourhood House or online at https://events.humaitix. com/charlton-film-festiva-2025.

“Visions of Tomorrow” exhibition in Wycheproof THE Wycheproof Railway Station came alive last month, showcasing the works of 12 talented artists for the “Visions of Tomorrow” exhibition—a vibrant celebration of personal stories, connection, and resilience.

Undeterred by the hot and blustery conditions, visitors from neighbouring towns and beyond made the trip to Wycheproof to experience the collection of artworks.

The pieces were created during workshops led by Ta n i s h a Lovett, a Gunditjmara and Wotjobaluk artist, and Tracy Wise, a Barkindji Ngiyampaa Maligundidj artist.

The workshops brought together local artists and individuals returning to

reconnect with the area, each sharing their own unique connection to community and journey through art.

The exhibition coincided with the anniversary of the National Apology to the Stolen Generations, offering a meaningful moment of reflection for the community.

Buloke Shire Council Mayor Cr Alan Getley congratulated the Wycheproof Community Resource Centre a n d c a r e t a ke r s o f t h e Wycheproof Station on presenting the exhibition.

“It’s great so many people participated in the workshops and attended despite the weather.

“The willingness of people to travel shows the value of these events,” he said.

Councillors Cr Stephen Barratt and Cr Bruce Stafford

Above: The Visions of Tomorrow display. also attended and commended the event’s success.

Funded by the Australian and Victorian Government’s Community Recovery Hubs

Program, the event highlights the importance of art in bringing people together to express individual feelings about what community means to them.

KELL FUNERALS Est 1860

PRE PAID FUNERALS AVAILABLE 24 HOURS

Ph: 5495 1043

136 Napier Street St. Arnaud

NAFD Member

Birthday wishes to: March 12th Gayle Milley Ross Taylor March 13th Sibble Spry March 14th Alexandra Egan Lisa Torney March 15th Brodie Blake Fraser Burke

March 16th Carly Glen Ricky Summers Thomas Douglas March 17th Bailey Durward Katrina Wiseman Rosee Larizza March 18th Courtney McLean

Above: (left to right) Lynette Summers, Jana Turkalj NGSC Major Events Coordinator, Trish Egan, Ros Small, Rhonda Fernandes, Marilyn Knights, Julie Gibson NGSC Manager Information Centre, Rosemary Hines, Evelyn Ward, Len Reid, Meryl Dooly and Ellen Reid Director Bible Museum.

Volunteers given highlights tour at the Bible Museum ST. ARNAUD Tourist Information Centre volunteers were given a “highlights” tour at the Bible Museum last week.

The tour had been arranged so that the volunteers could inform tourists about some of the experiences the Bible Museum has to offer.

The museum has new features and dis-

plays, and the collection has tripled in the last 15 years.

Julie Gibson (Manager of the Shire Information Centres) and Jana Turkalj (Major Events) both from the Northern

Grampians Shire, were also part of the group photo, along with Ellen Reid (Director of the Bible Museum).

The volunteers visited the butterfly flight house and garden, and were able to take a butterfly chrysalis home, so they could watch a butterfly emerging.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, THURSDAY MARCH 13th 2025 - Page 11

St. Arnaud Basketball Grand Final A good crowd attended the St. Arnaud Basketball Association Grand Final for the 2024-2025 season - Contributed on Sunday, 23rd February.

The SAMBO Federation ran the BBQ and kiosk on the day.

We were fortunate to successfully run all three grades, as well as the Aussie Hoops program this season.

A special thanks to Chris Snell for managing the Hoops program each week.

This year, we had 142 participants in our competition and 26 in Aussie Hoops—an increase in numbers compared to previous seasons.

We were also privileged to have Bendigo Bank as our major sponsor for today, covering the cost

of the medals for premiers, runners-up, and best-on-court players.

Each trophy has also been generously sponsored by local businesses.

A big thank you to Wayne Watson for coordinating the umpires for our finals series, and to all the volunteers who umpired, scored, and coached throughout the season.

Today has been a fantastic way to wrap up an incredible season, and congratulations to all the teams that played.

Jake, Bailey, Sophie and Harley (the Committee) appreciated everyone for their support this season and we look forward to the next successful season!

Right: Men’s Premiers: Supersonics - (left to right) Bailey Durward, Mitch Egan, Jackson Needs, Luke Jackson, (Front): George Gorrie, Jake Male.

Below: Men’s Runner Ups: GTs (left to right) Chris Snell, Nick Birthisel, Sam Male, Mitch Birthisel, Harley Durward, Frankie Donald, Dillon Baldock.

Above: Women’s Premiers: Panthers - (left to right) Nadine Collins, Alice Hubbard, Grace Lockhart, (Front): Sidney Dyer, Molly Hendy, Emily Glenister.

Absent from photo: Tess Jackson.

Below: Women’s Runner Ups: Betta - (left to right) Lucy Gorrie, Ellie Meagher, Imogen Amos, (Front): Keegan Amos, Sophie Male, Megan Wait.

Page 12 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, THURSDAY MARCH 13th 2025.

Above: Secondary Boys Premiers: Saints - (left to right) Alex Medlyn, George Gorrie, Austin Lowe, Max Ezard, (Front): Sean Bridgeman, Ben Greenaway.

Absent from photo: Kirri Ezard (coach), Ned Ezard.

Above: Secondary Girls Premiers: Panthers - (left to right) Hannah Stones, Jaylah Campbell, Sienna Carroll, Ella Wait, Sheree Carroll (coach).

Below: Primary Boys Runner Ups: Kings - (left to right) Jack Wait, Ned Ezard, Patrick Zsigmond, (Front): Aubrey Medlyn, Ellis Medlyn, Melissa Hendy (coach).

Above: Secondary Boys Runner Ups: Panthers - (left to right) Bob Donald, Jackson Needs, Xavier Taylor, (Front): Jack Batters, Sam Greenaway. Absent from photo: Finn Wilson.

Above: Primary Girls Premiers: Panthers- (left to right) Maria Taylor, Georgia Taylor (Coach) Jaylah Campbell, Maddie McNally, Ella Wait.

Above: Women’s Award Winners: (left to right) Best On In The Grand Final - Keegan Amos (Sponsored by Bendigo Bank). Runner Up MVP Sophie Male (Sponsored by Torney’s Fighting Fit) Leading Goal ScorerSophie Male (Sponsored by Hendy Transport). MVP - Grace Lockhart (Sponsored by MCL Legal).

Right: Secondary Boys Award Winners: Leading Goal Scorer Jackson Needs (Sponsored by St Arnaud Sporting Club). Runner Up MVP - Jackson Needs (Sponsored

by North Central News). Absent from photo: MVP - Chase Zander (Sponsored by Taylor’s Auto Electrical). Best On In The Grand Final - Austin Lowe (Sponsored by Bendigo Bank).

Above: Secondary Girls Runner Ups: Saints (left to right) Mahlie Morris, Tahyah Reyne, Melissa Hendy (coach), (Front): Sienna Thomson, Matilda Kirk, Indi Johns.

Above: Primary Girls Runner Up: Saints - (left to right) Phoenix Gigg, Sienna Thomson, Myah Carroll, Sheree Carroll (coach), (Front): Indi Johns, Faith Brooke.

Above: Primary Boys Premiers: Spirits - (left to right) Darcy Clohesy (coach), Riley Peacock, Finn Evans, Leo Kay, Front: Mason McKinnon, Oliver Hamilton, Christie Sloan.

Above: Men’s Award Winners: (left to right) Joint MVP - Jake Male and Harley Durward (Sponsored by Six2Six). Leading Goal Scorer - Jake Male (Sponsored by Hendy Tyre and Battery). Absent from photo: Best On In The Grand Final - Nick Birthisel (Sponsored by Bendigo Bank).

Runner Up MVP – Rhonzard Alvarez (Sponsored by Graeme Male Real Estate).

Below: Secondary Girls Winners: (left to right) Runner Up MVP- Tahyah Reyne (Sponsored by Weir’s IGA). Leading Goal Scorer - Lucy O’Donnell (Sponsored by St Arnaud Physiotherapy). Joint MVP’s Maria Taylor and Matilda Kirk (Sponsored

by Betta Home Living). Joint Best On In The Grand Final- Tahyah Reyne, Sienna Carroll (Sponsored by Bendigo Bank).

Above: Junior Sportsmanship Awards: (left to right) Phoenix Gigg (Sponsored by Lyla Eales), Sylvie Sloan (Sponsored by Physiobiz Fitness), Xavier Taylor (Sponsored by Cook’s Choice), Spencer Kay (Sponsored by Trendz on Napier),(Front): Mason McKinnon (Sponsored by The Shire Cafe), Gracie Medlyn (Sponsored by St Arnaud Newsagents), Maddie McNally (Sponsored by Parkview Bakery).

Absent: Maddox Stewart (Sponsored by Mckenzie Transport), Patrick Zsigmond (Sponsored by Karen Lee Probst Legal).

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, THURSDAY MARCH 13th 2025 - Page 13

Council questioned on getting both sides of renewables issue NORTHERN Grampians Council was questioned on the one-sided nature of a Council Briefing at last week’s council meeting.

Having earlier declared a conflict of interest in the question Mayor Cr Karen Hyslop left the meeting and Deputy Mayor Justine Hide assumed the chair.

During Public Questions time resident Ms Jacinda O’Sullivan of Gre Gre questioned on the recent briefing for new Councillors on renewable energy in the Northern Grampians Shire.

Ms O’Sullivan questioned why none of the following groups – Wallaloo and Gre Gre District Alliance, Landcare, Firefighters Against Renewables Over Victoria, St. Arnaud VFF or Yo u n g Farmers, No Navarre Wind Farm, AvocaStuart Mill Windfarm

Community – were asked to participate; Her question also included that given these groups are directly impacted by and are well informed on the issues, as well as ratepayers who live and work in the comm u n i t y, w h y w e r e these stakeholders excluded?

The Chief Executive Officer responded and said that it was not council’s intention to exclude those groups whatsoever.

He said that Northern Grampians has a proud track record in connecting those groups to industry through our monthly renewable energy forum that councillors also attend; Colin Coates and Barry Batters are

regular attendees.

“In terms of the actual briefing the main reason was essentially time.

“We did have the South Wi m m e r a Renewables Research Association (SWRRA) attend with three people that presented, it went from 9.30am to 1.30pm and was completely full with Transmission Company Victoria (TCV), VicGrid and a number of other agencies and then we had a site visit so it was completely packed out”.

“When I became aware that some of those groups were not included he contacted Ben Duxson, Chair of the Wallalloo Gre Gre Alliance and Colin Coates, Chair VFF St. Arnaud and committed to have another

briefing at some point”.

Mr McAlister said that it is the council’s intention that all the groups mentioned will present to councillors.

Cr Hide reported that she would follow up on what the CEO said.

“Northern Grampians, Loddon, Yarriambiack, Buloke and Gannawarra Shires met to discuss VNI and renewables and a working group is going to be formed from that.

“Moving forward we will work together, together we are stronger, and as the CEO said the time constraint is our biggest challenge but we respect your question and will certainly see what we can accommodate” Cr Hide stated.

Kara Kara Ward Councillors report on their monthly attendance COUNCILLOR Karen Probst member for Kara Kara Ward of Northern Grampians Shire Council reported, at the recent North Grampians Shire meeting, on her meeting attendance at North Central LLEN that is working to try and engage with all youth to help find a future for them.

She said what she finds frustrating is that the NCLLEN covers a large area and is continually unsuccessful in its efforts to get funding for St. Arnaud.

Cr Probst said that she and Cr Emerson met with a small group keen to get water into Lake Batyo Catyo for future water recreation.

“They are working with the water authority to try and get their agreement to divert water into the lake when it is not needed further along.

“What is important for the St. Arnaud community is the health

and doctor situation with doctors getting to retirement age and the difficulty in finding replacements.

“A meeting later tonight, is the first brainstorming session with the community to get ideas for how we can attract doctors to our area, eg offering our town as a great place to live.

Cr Probst spoke about the negative comments she has heard when handing out the council plan survey brochures and said there is an onus on councillors and council staff to think about ways we can

communicate to get the stor y across better to overcome the apathy.

“There is also an onus on the community to read the paper, look on Facebook and to talk to us’.

Cr Emerson’s report on activities Cr Emerson said that in addition to most of the meetings already mentioned by Cr Probst he had attended a meeting of the St. Arnaud Recreation Advisory Group, the Listening Posts, VNI West,

Queen Mary Gardens, SCAN. He believed that he and Cr Probst work well as a team to represent the Kara Kara Ward.

“I have also attended a few meetings of the Stawell Gift Event Management Board because the Stawell Gift is coming up.

“As a member of the MAV Board I have been discussing all things local government including housing and sustainability.

“One enjoyable place I have visited during the month was Nagambie to an unveiling of a plaque and mural recognising three of the Stawell Gift winners from the region”.

Emerson puts forward insurance affordability issue NORTHERN Grampians Council member representing the Kara Kara Ward, Cr Murray Emerson, asked that the matter of a Motion for the next MAV State Council relating to the fire disaster at Halls Gap be considered as Urgent Business.

Cr Emerson’s motion stated that the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) calls on the Victorian State and the Commonwealth Governments

to establish an intergovernmental taskforce including MAV representatives, to work with the insurance industry to find affordable and avail-

able insurance cover for flood and bushfire prone communities.

The scope of the taskforce should include but is not limited to agreeing

upon how to ensure there is ongoing strong partnerships between insurers and governments, risk reduction methods and natural hazard management plans that address insurers concerns.

The motion was carried.

Shop locally, support local business and secure your children’s future

Page 14 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, THURSDAY MARCH 13th 2025.

Above: Before the thunderstorm activity over Birchip on Sunday night that caused the last 3 races of the Mallee Bull Cup meeting to be abandoned the Charlton combination of Luke Dunne, Mick Gadsden and owner Emily Gadsden won with their trotter “Surprise To Me”. - Photo. Lauren White

Early finish at Birchip DESPITE twelve months of planning the one element that the Birchip HRC couldn’t control for their Mallee Bull Cup meeting, the weather, forced the Club to cancel the last three races on the day’s programme last Sunday 9th March.

The rain started during the running of race 4 then there was a downpour during the running of race 5.

Race 6 was run but as more storm activity in the proximity of Birchip became evident after that race a temporary halt to proceedings was called before the last three races including the Mallee Bull Cup were abandoned.

Fortunately two locally trained horses were amongst the winners of the earlier races with the Emily Wombwell and Molly Hinch owned “Surprise To Me” winning again for trainer Mick Gadsden and driver Luke Dunne.

The 7yo has now had 6 starts for the Charlton trainer for 2 wins and 4 placings.

Second in that Trot was Scott Torney’s “Tension Seeker” who carried on with the good form she showed at Boort a week earlier.

The other winner was the 6yo daughter of Berrimal stallion “Danny Bouchea” namely “Poppy Popstar” whose win gave the sire two winners for the week and moved him into number 7 position on the Trotting Sires Premiership.

Inside running

by Archie

Raced by Jack and Tarah McNamara the mare is trained by Tarah and was driven by Jack Laugher.

Mildura raced on Friday afternoon with the grand old campaigner “Celestial Daybreak” winning again for the Charlton partnership of Tori Hutchins and Luke Dunne.

The 13yo gelding, formerly trained in SA, has raced 439 times for 59 wins and 102 placings including 3 wins and 5 placings in its 13 starts since it made the move to the Charlton Training Centre.

At Bendigo on Wednesday the John Tormey trained “Shaq” made it career win number 22 for owner/breeder Kevin Clark.

The 8yo was driver on this occasion by concession driver Liam Older.

This Sunday is Charlton Cup Day with this years theme of “We’re All Country”.

The “Bubbles in the Bush” fundraiser for the Teal foundation is on from 11.00am and then an exciting afternoon of competitive racing highlighted by the Pacing and Trotting Cups.

Bridget Jones – Mad about the boy at St. Arnaud Cinema BRIDGET Jones Diary is a romantic comedy film directed by Sharon Maguire. This was based on the 1996 novel Bridget Jones’s Diary

by Fielding. With the success of this film, it has lead to another three - Contributed sequels released.

Bridget Jones – Edge Of Reason -2004 Bridget Jones’s baby – 2016 Bridget Jones – Mad About The Boy – 2025.

Bridget Jones finally has some luck in her life. Bridget has a great job as a screenwriter, her family and a new boyfriend. With the fact that he is over twenty years younger

than her isn’t the only thing that is causing her problems.

Screening at St Arnaud Community

Cinema on Friday 14th March at 7:30pm and Saturday 15th March at 2pm.

Tickets are at $12pp

QUOTE OF THE WEEK In reality, these days our jolly swagman would probably be pulled up for pitching his tent without a proper permit, lighting an illegal fire or sparking up a ciggie in a public place.

- Jon Donnison, BBCNews

Poachers Weekend - We are 25!

Donald and Minyip & District Field and Game Donald Field and Game (DFG) went on a hunt to figure out how long the Day 2 shoot between Donald and Minyip, known as “Poachers Weekend” had been running for.

The hunt started last year with Sarah O’Brien (DFG member) asking Tanya Clark (M&DFG member) the question, Tanya’s remark was, we must be close to 25.

History of Poachers Af ter scrolling through old minute books, a post on the DFG Facebook page and a challenge set to the Buloke Times, it was confirmed the first “Poachers Weekend” was held in March of 2001.

Exert from the Buloke Times “Poachers Weekend” article: Fifty-target shoots were held on Saturday and Sunday, March 3 and 4.

This was the first ever “Poachers weekend” and a new two day initiative for Minyip and Donald Field & Game clubs The “seed” that planted the idea Sarah when speaking with Peter Pendlebur y (DFG member) how a two day shoot came about, Peter explained that duck opening clashed with Minyip’s monthly shoot (third Sunday).

Minyip wanted to shoot the first Sunday of March which was Donald’s shoot day.

There grew the idea that Donald would shoot the Saturday and Minyip the Sunday and the two day shoot event known as “Poachers Weekend” was created.

Poachers 2025 A brilliant weekend for shooting and socialising.

Donald F&G had 179 shooters attend on Saturday 1st March (Day 1) and on Day 2 at Minyip and District F&G there were 196 shooters in attendance.

Overall, 160 shooters shot both days.

29 different clubs from Victoria, NSW and South Australia were represented.

Prizes Minyip’s major raffle prize winner of a Companion 45L Fridge was Tim L ardner from Shepparton.

The Overall Lucky Door Prize winner of an Engle 40 L Fridge donated by B&G Bulk Haulage was Gavin Pay from Sunraysia.

- Contributed

Donald – Day 1 Shoot offs AA Grade for 2nd and 3rd: John Handley, Russell Chaplin, Leigh Norton and Brendon Pearson.

A Grade for 2nd: Phillip Toose and Peter Chase B Grade for 2nd and 3rd: James Fritsch, Gene Di Giandomenico and Russell Lardner L adies for 3rd: Brenda Murphy and Shannon Ware Vets for 2nd and 3rd: Barry Wentworth, Denis Kell and Tony Barrett Juniors for 3rd: Brendan Winter, Joshua Fitzpatrick and Lachlan Clark High Gun- Murray Hill (Minyip) 67 In memory of Wayne “Wog” Lowan (Colac FG) his son Cameron Betts presented the Highgun trophy at Donald. Wog won Highgun at Donald in 2016 and 2017, Minyip in 2018 and 2019 and went on to take out the Overall Highgun in 2017, 2018 and 2020.

He scored a possible (25/25) in 2022 at Donald and in 2017 at Minyip he scored a double possible (50/50).

AA Grade- Kevin Jacobs 66 (Moe), 2nd Russell Chaplin 63 (Deni) 3rd John Handley 63 (Clunes) A Grade- 1st Gavin Pay 65 (Sunraysia), 2nd Tim L ardner 63 (Shepparton) 3rd Peter Chace 60 (AraratStawell) B Grade- 1st Andrew Falla 56 (Donald) 2nd Russell Lardner 52 (Shepparton), 3rd James Fritsch 52 (Donald) C Grade- 1st Seamus Kilcullen 45 (Sunraysia), 2nd Jarred Newell 42 (Donald), 3rd Ben Clark 40 (Donald) Ladies- 1st Vicki Norris 50 (Kyabram), 2nd Vicki Chaplin 48 (Mt Wycheproof), 3rd Brenda Murphy 47 (Swan Hill) Veterans- 1st Chris Charleson 66 (Swan Hill), 2nd Denis Kell 59 (Cranbourne), 3rd Tony Barrett 59 (Morwell) Under 18 Juniors1st Jardy Ellis 56 (Natimuk) 2nd Chase Porter 55 (Natimuk) 3rd L achlan Clark 45 (Donald) Under 15 Sub Juniors- 1st Mitchell Wilson 51 (Bar-rook), 2nd Peter Fitzpatrick 50 (Ararat-Stawell) 3rd Evie Hendy 36 (Minyip).

Minyip – Day 2 Shoot offs AA for 1st and 2nd: Greg Deutscher and Kevin Jacobs Ladies for 2nd and 3rd: Vicki Norris and Vicki Chaplin Vets for 1st and 2nd:

Donald Day 1 winners Above: Back row (L-R): Kevin Jacobs, Tony Barrett, Andrew Falla, Denis Kell, James Fritsch, Ben Clark, Nathan Cassells (OTC Rep), Jeremy Jardine (DFG President), Russell Chaplin and Lachlan Clark.

Middle row (L-R) Evie Henry, Peter Fitzpatrick, Mitchell Wilson, Vicki Norris, Tim Lardner, Russell Lardner, John Handley, Jardy Ellis and Chase Porter.

Front row (L-R): Vicki Chaplin, Murray Hill (HG winner), Peter Chase, Seamus Kilcullen, Gavin Pay, Chris Charleson and Brenda Murphy.

Minyip Day 2 winners and Overall Handicap winners: Above: Back rows (L-R): Jackson Welsh (HG winner), Chase Porter, Jardy Ellis, Nathan Cassells (OTC Rep) Tim Lardner, Shaun Thomas, Andrew Falla, Daniel Brullo, Greg Deutscher, Kell Tyler and Chris Charleson.

Middle (L-R): Shannon Ware, Ryan Milgate, Brendan Winter, Mitchell Wilson, Vicki Norris, Neil Campbell, Peter Fitzpatrick, Joshua Fitzpatrick, Rebecca Close and Boof Lorenzen.

Front row (L-R): Vicki Chaplin, Evie Hendy, Wayne Hendy, Brendan Pearson, Jim Wood, Gavin Pay, Kevin Jacobs (Overall HG winner), Mahayla Pay and Peter Chase.

Chris Charleson and Neil Campbell High Gun- Jackson Welsh 69 (Grampians) AA Grade- 1st Greg Deutscher 68 (Minyip), 2nd Kevin Jacobs 68 (Moe), 3rd Russell Chaplin 68 (Deni) A Grade- 1st Shaun Thomas 65 (Bar-rook), 2nd Tim Lardner 64 (Shepparton), 3rd Ryan Milgate 63 (Minyip) B Grade- 1st Boof Lorenzen 58 (Clunes), 2nd Peter Bridley 55 (Sunraysia), 3rd Ross Tyben 54 (Bendigo).

C Grade- 1st Kelvin Tyler 50 (Minyip), 2nd Craig Durand 47 (Ballarat), 3rd Daniel Brullo 46 (Bar-rook).

Ladies- 1st Vicki Chaplin 51 (Mt Wycheproof), 2nd Vicki Norris 51 (Kyabram), 3rd Michaela Shirley 50

(Clunes) Veterans- 1st Chris Charleson 67 (Swan Hill), 2nd Neil Campbell 67 (Benalla), 3rd Jim Wood 65 (Morwell) Under 18 juniors- 1st Chase Porter 58 (Natimuk) 2nd Jardy Ellis 61 (Natimuk), 3rd Joshua Fitzpatrick 50 (Ararat-Stawell) Under 15 Juniors1st Mitchell Wilson 63 (Bar-rook) 2nd Peter Fitzpatrick 50 (AraratStawell), 3rd Evie Hendy 34 (Minyip) Overall Winners (combined 2 days) Off the Gun High Gun: Kevin Jacobs 135/150 (Moe) All remaining winners include handicap on count back.

Highgun Handicap: Boof Lorenzen 142 (Clunes)

AA Grade: 1st Russell Chaplin 137 (Deni), 2nd Brendon Pearson 135 (MCC), 3rd L eigh Norton 134 (Sunraysia) A Grade: 1st Murray Hill 141 (Minyip), 2nd Tim L ardner 139 (Shepparton), 3rd Jackson Welsh 138 (Grampians) B Grade: 1st Ross Tyben 141 (Bendigo), 2nd Andrew Falla 131 (Donald) 3rd Gene Di Giandomenico 129 (Clunes) C Grade: 1st Daniel Brullo 136 (Bar-rook), 2nd Wayne Hendy 132 (Minyip), 3rd Rebecca Close 130 (Ballarat) Ladies: 1st Shannon Ware 133 (Benalla), 2nd Mihayla Pay 125 (Sunraysia), 3rd Vicki Chaplin 123 (Mt Wycheproof)

Veterans: 1st Chris Charleson 139 (Swan Hill), 2nd Tony Barrett 139 (Mor well), 3rd Barry Wentworth 131 (Geelong) Junior: 1st Joshua Fitzpatick 137 (AraratStawell), 2nd Brendan Winter 135 (Donald), 3rd Chase Porter 131 (Natimuk) Sub Junior: 1st Mitchell Wilson 132

(Bar-rook) 2nd Peter Fitzpatrick 130 (AraratStawell), 3rd Evie Hendy 112 (Minyip) Next F&G shoot is Donald Sunday 6th April, and Minyip Sunday 20th April.

An absolutely SMASHING weekend with an amazing bunch of people from three different states.

WEEKLY RAINFALL ST. ARNAUD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28.4mm RAINFALL FOR MARCH . . . . . .28.4mm YEARLY RAINFALL TO DATE . . .49.2mm CHARLTON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1.6mm RAINFALL FOR MARCH . . . . . . .1.6mm YEARLY RAINFALL TO DATE . . .18.4mm

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, THURSDAY MARCH 13th 2025 - Page 15

Page 16 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, THURSDAY MARCH 13th 2025.

SPORT

HOME DELIVERY 5495 1055

Local bowlers into State Finals T H E W i m m e r a B ow l s Re g i o n St a t e Championships were held at Ararat last weekend and the North Central Playing Area was well represented by Steve Zsigmond, (St. A.) Hunter Wingfield (Donald) and Tony Marland (St. A.)

Above: Riley Burke with his 52cm Yellowbelly.

Long Weekend Unlimited Radius THE Labour Day Long Weekend Competition 7 saw six men, six ladies and three juniors fish in the Unlimited Radius on 8th - 10th March 2025.

- Contributed Anglers fished at Barham, Lake Boga, Murrabit, Lock 8 and Lock 9.

Riley Burke caught ten yellowbelly, with a total length of 424.5m.

Riley’s biggest yellowbelly was 53cm.

Riley won biggest fish.

Leanne Burke caught ten yellowbelly, with a total length of 370.5m.

Leanne’s biggest yellowbelly was 49cm.

Leanne won ladies biggest bag.

Luke Ezard caught two redfin, with a total length of 77cm.

Luke’s biggest redfin was 39cm.

Luke won mens biggest bag.

Ned Ezard caught a 36cm redfin.

Ned won juniors biggest bag.

In the carp comp Max Ezard caught a 37cm carp and the winner Jody Reyne with a 77cm carp.

In total 20 yellowbelly, 3 redfin and 2 carp were caught.

Next comp is for the Mid Northern Shield at Barham on the 22nd - 23rd March 2025.

Above: Leanne Burke’s 49cm Yellowbelly.

Steve and Hunter are the Regional State Pairs Champions, defeating W. Albrecht and A. Krahe (Wim.) 16 shots to 9 in the final.

Steve Zsigmond, Hunter Wingfield and Tony Marland claimed the Wimmera Region State Triples Championship with a good win over Wimmera triple, K. Clyne, G.Knight and G.Morrell 17 shots to 9.

Ziggy so close to Singles Titles Steve Zsigmond won his way into the Wimmera Region State Mens Singles Final but was narrowly defeated

by Ron Baron 25 shots to 23.

- Contributed Steve also won his way into the Wimmera Region Mens Singles Champion of Champions final, but unfortunately with the same result, going down to Chris Young 25 shots to 23.

Steve, Hunter and Tony are to be congratulated on their outstanding performances at these championships.

They have done us proud!!

They are now into the top 16 pairs and triples teams in the State and will contest the State finals at a later date.

Above: (left to right) , Steve Zsigmond, Hunter Wingfield and Tony Marland, Wimmera Regional State Champions 2025.

St. Arnaud Club Fours Champions - Contributed

THE final of the St. Arnaud Bowling Club fours championship was played last Friday evening, starting in brilliant sunshine, and finishing two and a half hours later under bright lights.

It was a perfect evening.

Phil McRae, Marie Hufer, Diane Ostarcevic, and Heather Stevenson went to a 5 shots to 1 shot lead over Tony Marland, John Prendergast, Wayne Rourke and Andrea Tyler, but two ends later were down 8 shots to 5.

There was just 1 shot the difference 9-8 after 11 ends but then Tony Marland’s four took complete control.

They won all of the remaining ends includ-

ing a devastating 6 shots on the 13th end, storming to a comprehensive 26 shots to 8 shots win.

It was the first fours title win for Tony Marland and John Prendergast, the second fours win for Andrea Tyler, (2023-24), and the

Above: St. Arnaud Bowling Club Fours Champions (left to right) Andrea Tyler, Tony Marland, John Prendergast and Wayne Rourke. fourth win for Wayne Rourke (2017-18, 202223, 23-24.)

Wimmera Mallee Cricket Grand finals A Grade Donald Jeffcott 5/57 (18.5) def Birchip Swans 10/56 (25) B Grade Donald Jeffcott 10/84 (23.2) lost to Watchem Panthers 9/163 (40)