ZALI Maley posed with her dad William Maley, mum Saskia Van Bever and little sister for a quick photograph before her first day of school. Mansfield Primary School acting principal Nicole Comerford recorded the milestone moment, as she welcomed 57 new prep students into the classroom last Friday.
Emma Oliver
THE familiar hum of rush hour has returned to the streets surrounding schools and kindergartens.
As students settle back into their routines, the ebb and ow of tra c around drop-o and pick-up zones is a sure sign that the school year is in full swing.
A wave of fresh faces joined the throngs of students heading back to school last week.
From nervous kindergarteners and preps in oversized uniforms to con dent seniors embarking on their nal year, the start of the academic year brings a mix of excitement and anticipation.
BY EMMA OLIVER eoliver@ nemedia.com.au
And alongside the students, parents and teachers alike are navigating the back-to-school bustle as another academic year begins.
HAYLEY Roberts has stepped into the role of director at Mans eld Kindergarten supported by Amy Vella as assistant.
Each will be heading up one of the three kindergarten groups alongside previous director Nicola Beautyman.
A er two decades at the helm
Nicola is stepping back, with the kindergarten thrilled she will remain on-board taking on the role of teacher for the Bawaang fouryear-old group.
Bawaang means magpie in Taungurung with each group now named a er animals using the local indigenous language.
Another four-year-old group is the Gaan group which means cockatoo, and the three-year-olds are the Goorbils which is koala in Taungurung.
Ms Roberts con rmed each group has 22 children, with the Earth Kinder program kicking o in March a er the new students have got
established and into their new and exciting routine.
“We’ve also had a great response from new families signing up to be on our parent committee,” said Ms Roberts as the new year kicks o at the Ailsa Street facility.
THE Farmhouse welcomed students into the classroom last week with both Nature Kinder and Bush Kinder class numbers at 22 students.
Bronwyn Sly has stepped into the role of teacher for the three-yearolds with the four-year-old class led by teacher Naomi Smith.
■ Continued pages 14-15
By DANI NETHERCLIFT, President, Mansfield Readers and Writers Festival
LATE last year—to lift the profile and reach of both—Mansfield Readers and Writers Festival’s Short Story Competition merged with the long running local Bushy Tales and formed a new suite of writing prizes called High Country Words.
High Country Words, which opens officially opens on February 1 and closes on April 30 at 11:59pm, comprises categories of short story (open and local) maximum 2000 words, poetry with a maximum of 100 lines, and bush poetry, also with a maximum of 100 lines.
The theme for 2025 is ‘scrub’.
All longlisted entries will appear in a dedicated anthology.
Entry is $20, with one free entry with current Mansfield Readers and Writers Festival memberships.
We are excited to launch this new suite of prizes, and we welcome entries from locals and non-locals alike.
All details, along with entry forms can be found on our website: https://mansfieldreadersandwriters.com/writing-competition/
Judges:
Short story (open and local) Margaret Hickey: Margaret is an award-winning author and playwright from North East Victoria.
She has a PhD in creative writing and is the author of Cutters End, Stone Town, Broken Bay, and The Creeper, as well as a short story collection Rural Dreams.
Poetry: Maria Takolander: Maria is a poet, fiction writer, essayist, independent scholar, public artist, reviewer and interviewer who has been widely published across multiple spheres.
She is the author of the short story collection The Double, and the poetry collection Trigger Warning, which won the Victorian Premier’s Prize for poetry in 2022, and The End of the World.
Bush Poetry: Andrew and Frederica Furphy: Andrew is the great grandson of Australia’s proto-novelist.
He has been a metallurgist, a writer and a film maker.
Along with his partner, Frederica, these Shepparton raconteurs—with the benefit of age, and a love of the well-chosen wordaim to keep bush themed storytelling alive.
POSTPONED: Entrants and fans alike will have to wait until next year for the highly anticipated return of
organisation announcing last week it was postponing the April-slated event until 2026 to focus
By SHAUN MCMAHON
TARGA Australia has announced that its highly anticipated Park to Peak Mt. Buller event, originally scheduled for April 2025, has been postponed until 2026.
The decision was made to allow the organisation to focus entirely on the successful return of Targa Tasmania in November 2025.
Targa CEO Mark Perry conrmed the postponement, explaining that while they had hoped to move forward with Park to Peak next year, a strategic reassessment led to the conclusion that it would be best to delay the event.
“Whilst we would have loved to be sending you an application form and information today relating to Park to Peak Mt. Buller, we have made a conscious and wise decision to delay the introduction of our new event until 2026,” Perry said in a statement last week.
The decision follows a series of meetings and a full planning day
Whilst we would have loved to be sending you an application form and information today relating to Park to Peak Mt. Buller, we have made a conscious and wise decision to delay the introduction of our new event until 2026.
TARGA CEO MARK PERRY SAID IN A STATEMENT LAST WEEK
with Targa’s newly assembled team, where they determined that pushing ahead with Park to Peak in April 2025 would divert resources away from preparing for Targa Tasmania’s return.
“In getting stuck into the detail, we all agreed that in proceeding with this event in April we were ultimately delaying work on Targa Tasmania and therefore detrimentally impacting what it will look like on its return in November,” Perry said.
“To use my own words many times over the last year, we must remain completely focused on the successful return of Targa Tasmania in 2025 and everything else can return from 2026.”
“Whilst we had well-intentioned aspirations to provide a Targa Academy and competition opportunity at Mt. Buller in April, we need to ensure that this could be achieved without any detrimental impact on Targa Tasmania.”
Targa Tasmania’s return in No-
vember 2025 is now the primary focus for the organisation, with an emphasis on reshaping the event to secure its future in the motorsport calendar.
“We are re-building Targa Tasmania in a di erent direction, one that will meet all future requirements to allow the event to be held each year for many years to come,” Perry said.
“A new event based on the legacy and history of one of the world’s most iconic rally events.”
“Words don’t sum up the magnitude of the work needed to achieve our goals.”
Despite the delay, Targa said they remain committed to bringing Park to Peak Mt. Buller to life in 2026, with plans to return to the mountain stronger than ever.
“So, whilst it is disappointing that we won’t all get together at Mt. Buller in April, we will get back to our ‘second home’ on top of the world at Mt. Buller in 2026,” Perry said.
A STAR STUDDED LINE-UP:
Chocolate
top
OUTTA TOWN: Adam Thompson of Chocolate Starfish sings to a large crowd at
By MIKE SMITH
IT isn’t every day that a band with a legacy, and a fanbase, the size of Chocolate Star sh comes to Mans eld Shire.
And while the Adam Thompson fronted band surely had plenty of options for how to spend Australia Day, they chose to spend it here, with us.
What’s more, in putting on the Outta Town Festival at Jamieson Brewery, they brought a whole heap of their musician friends along with them.
It’s no surprise the event drew a strong and energetic Australia Day crowd.
“The rst Outta Town music festival at Jamieson Brewery was a blissful a ernoon of music,” Darren Danielson, Chocolate Star sh drummer, said when he spoke to the Courier on behalf of his bandmates.
“In classic Australian sunshine, it was a perfect setting to bask in all things great about summer in the Victorian High Country.
“The picturesque lake, the trees and the mountains created
OUTTA TOWN FESTIVAL SAW CHOCOLATE STARFISH AND CO THROW QUITE A PARTY FOR AUSTRALIA DAY
a beautiful natural backdrop to juxtapose the rock and roll energy that played out in its shadows.
“All the bands and audience in attendance said they would love to see Outta Town again in 2026, as an event for all ages to enjoy.”
It seems the band’s appearance here at the gates of the High Country might just have birthed a new generation of ‘FishFam’ as fans of the band are a ectionately known.
“It was great to see so many kids enjoying the music and atmosphere,” Adam Thompson, Chocolate Star sh frontman, said.
“We have worked hard over the years to ensure our show has longevity.
“We want it to appeal to this generation, we want it to be equally as appealing to them as it is to our long term fans.”
And while Chocolate Star sh
OLD FRIENDS: The band used the festival as a chance to reunite with old friends, such as The Sharp, from the music scene.
brought a whole lot of name recognition and starpower, they were happy to sit back at Jamieson Brewery and watch as the day unfolded before heading to the stage to mesmerise the crowd with their headline set.
“As a band, it was great to sit backstage and enjoy the music of our 90’s contemporaries,” Thompson said.
“Monique Brumby, The Sharp and The Badloves in particular.
“Touring over the years meant we lost contact with these bands, so it was great to enjoy each other’s company again.”
The band enjoyed their special day in the High Country sun, but no one enjoyed the experience more than the crowds who gathered to see their idols perform.
The good news is, that day to remember might simply be the rst of many, with the band looking to use the momentum of the triumphant gig as a springboard for further gigs.
“We hope to grow Outta Town into one of Victoria’s premier boutique festivals that is on everyone’s calendars each year as a must do,” Thompson said.
GOULBURN Valley Water’s 2024 Annual Water Outlook has con rmed that water restrictions are unlikely this year and that drinking water supplies are in a stable position for the region.
According to the updated water security outlook, published on Goulburn Valley Water’s website, only one of the 54 towns supplied by 13 river, creek and groundwater supply systems has any chance of experiencing water restrictions during 2025.
Goulburn Valley Water Managing Director Dr Steve Capewell said a number of fac-
tors had been considered in the analysis, but the major contributors to the outcome were strong storage levels and wetter catchments following the spring 2022 floods.
“All of the northern region’s water supply systems – the Murray River, Goulburn River, Seven Creeks, Nine Mile Creek, and Katunga’s groundwater have a very rare likelihood of restrictions, while the Delatite and Upper Delatite River, Brewery Creek, Steavenson River, Yea River and the Sunday Creek systems also have positive supply outlooks,” Dr Capewell said.
Water demand projections, population growth predictions, climate modelling and two-year forecast graphs have been used to develop the Annual Water Outlook. The 2024 outlook is bolstered further by the fact Agriculture Victoria’s December to February 2025 outlook is projecting average to above average rainfall conditions.
Dr Capewell said every ve years Goulburn Valley Water produced an Urban Water Strategy to plan for short, medium and long term water availability and wastewater demand.
“The 2027 strategy will create more opportunities for the use of recycled water, which was a preference outlined by our customers during engagement for the development of the 2022 Urban Water Strategy,” he said. Projects included in the current strategy are progressing well, and include a new pipeline connecting Numurkah to Nathalia, which is expected to be complete in 2027. There are also planned upgrades for water treatment plants in Shepparton, Broadford, and Cobram, along with a raw water pipeline in Mans eld.
Our fantastic February Photographic competition and exhibition –Furbruary – has kickstarted with some fabulous entries rolling in. Start snapping your favourite pooch! Over $400 in vouchers to be won. Details on our webpage thedelatitehotel.com/whats-on
The worst wedding reception you’ll ever go to… and everyone is invited! This fabulous 5-star experience has fun and mayhem bursting from the seams of a wedding dress, with entirely original comedy that pulls out all the stops – including quickre character changes and quick- re laughs.
The audience becomes part of a classic wedding reception gone wildly wrong. Crammed with comedy and chaos, this confetti- lled show features four performers playing nine characters in a whirlwind of laughter, love and tears, and a 3-course meal.
WED 2ND APRIL
Our
THURSDAY: Sunny Temperature: 15 - 37
FRIDAY: Mostly Sunny Temperature: 18- 37
SATURDAY: Sunny Temperature: 15 - 33
SUNDAY: Sunny Temperature: 14 - 35
MONDAY: Sunny Temperature: 17 - 30
TUESDAY: Partly Sunny Temperature: 16 - 31
General/Advertising:
By SHAUN MCMAHON
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THE 138th Tolmie Sports Day is set to take place on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at the Tolmie Recreation Reserve, promising a full day of traditional country sports, entertainment, and community spirit.
This year’s event marks a signi cant milestone following challenges faced by the Tolmie Sports Association in mid-2024 when the future of the event was uncertain due to di culties in forming a new committee.
However, a successful second general meeting saw a surge in community support, ensuring that the long-running event will continue for another year.
The 2025 Tolmie Sports Day will feature a packed schedule, such as equestrian events including an exciting expansion of the
barrel racing events. There will be axemen competitions including the noisily thrilling hot saw event, novelty foot races for young and old, and the return of the popular Three-Man Challenge.
Gates open at 9:00 am, with entry priced at $10 for adults, $5 for pensioners and students, and free admission for children aged ve and under.
The upcoming event is set to bring plenty of fun for all ages, with a mix of classic activities and exciting new additions.
“There’s a new specialty event novelty called Use Your Noodle, just for the adults - the big kids at heart,” Assistant Secretary Mary Reilly said.
“Bata Shoes is sponsoring the gumboot toss and providing golden gumboots.
“The sponsors and support-
ers around town and the district have been brilliant.
“The new committee has been absolutely amazing, and everyone has worked together brilliantly.”
“We’re excited about it - it’s been a lot of work, but it’s been really good.”
Attendees can also look forward to the Dog Jumping Competition, a major crowd favourite, which will take place at 4:00 pm following the conclusion of the axemen events.
Food vendors and market stalls will operate throughout the day, with Devonshire tea and sandwiches in the Tea Rooms aka the camp kitchen, a barbecue, and a fully licensed bar open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
In addition to the sporting events, there will be demonstrations and displays from groups
such as the SES, CFA, Mans eld Historical Society, and the Fergie Tractor Club.
With a history dating back to the 1880s, Tolmie Sports Day remains one of the region’s longest-running events, celebrating the town’s heritage with good old-fashioned competitions such as the gumboot toss and egg-andspoon races.
The event will conclude at 5:00 pm, followed by an Axemen Arena Afterparty, featuring live music and karaoke, where attendees are encouraged to bring along an esky, food, and dancing shoes to round off the day’s festivities.
Updates and further details can be found via the Tolmie Sports Association Facebook page, or by contacting the association directly at tolmiesports@ gmail.com.
By LYNN ELDER
MERRIJIG is a much loved rural escape for former Australian Human Rights Commissioner and United Nations Assistant High Commissioner for Protection, Emeritus Professor Gillian Triggs over several years, who now can add Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) to her extensive list of honours and awards.
Professor Gillian Triggs received her honour (AC) in the general division for eminent service to humanitarian and human rights law, international relations, social justice advocacy, and tertiary legal education and research on Australia Day, January 26 as one of six appointments.
Speaking from her Merrijig home last week where Professor Triggs hopes to spend the bulk of her time starting from this year, she re ected on the latest honour and her life’s work spanning many decades.
“I was enormously honoured to be given this recognition, I saw it as a bit about me and signi cant for all the people who have done all the work including the UNHCR,” Professor Triggs said.
“It is a very nice thing and makes me happy.”
The Governor General’s o ce contacted her in October last year about her nomination and if she was willing to accept it.
Professor Triggs said it took a lot of “toing and froing” with lots of cross references to obtain the correct information about her achievements and work.
She is known as a high-pro le Australian and British public international lawyer, specialising in human rights, trade, and commercial law.
Add to this academic, barrister and director.
Professor Triggs has been
elding phone calls from many di erent people wanting to congratulate her including former Australian politician Barry Jones with whom she has worked.
“The truth is I never really was a human rights lawyer,” she said.
It was a case of learning all the general fundamental principles of law and creating building blocks to increase your knowledge Professor Triggs explained.
Her foray into the humanitarian sector came much later in Professor Trigg’s career when she was appointed as president of the Australian Human Rights Commission and then a role with the UNHCR.
Her interest in international law was sparked at university in the 1960s.
She was admitted to practice at 23 where she worked on lower pro le cases including at fault divorces (the law changed in 1975) and bankruptcies.
“The point is that is where you
learn basic skills and continue adding to what you can do,” said Professor Triggs.
She entered the Supreme Court of Victoria as a barrister and a solicitor in 1968.
Professor Triggs has held various roles both here and overseas, earning respect for her expertise and insights.
She embarked on her academic endeavours from 1996 at the Melbourne Law School as a professorial fellow and currently teaches part time at the law faculty at the University of Melbourne, a role Professor Triggs says she loves.
The professor endured political wrath from the country’s former prime minister Tony Abbott following her launch of the National Inquiry into Children in Immigration Detention in February 2014 as HRC president.
Professor Triggs is adamant that “you cannot detain people” and has serious concerns about the
lack of leadership globally when it comes to humanitarian issues.
“It is a tragedy there is no political leadership to change things,” she said.
In response to what are the current priorities for action, she spoke of continuing con icts and humanitarian crisis in Sudan, Syria, Afghanistan and the “abysmal conditions” being experienced by Myanmar Rohingya people living in refugee camps across the border in Bangladesh.
Professor Triggs is writing some books and hopefully spending more time at her Merrijig holiday home of 22 years with former Australian diplomat husband Alan Brown.
Her memoir, “Speaking Up,” was published by Melbourne University Press in 2018.
A er working overseas so much it will be a welcome change to enjoy their high country home, she said.
Mayor Cr Rabie has encouraged residents to give feedback on council performance in upcoming Community Satisfaction Survey.
Tell us how you think we’re doing, says mayor
MANSFIELD Shire Council has encouraged shire residents to take part in the 2025 Community Satisfaction Survey and give feedback on council’s performance.
The survey, undertaken from January 28 to mid-March, will cover a broad range of topics related to Council services.
Mayor Cr Steve Rabie highlighted the importance of community involvement in the survey process.
“Your feedback helps us understand what matters most to you,” he said.
“Whether it’s about local planning, sustainability or public spaces, the community satisfaction survey is an important chance to tell us how you think we’re performing.
“Your feedback has a real impact.
“Last year our community told us they wanted Council to do better on roads and planning for growth, and we listened.
“We’ve made huge efforts in those areas this year.
In previous years Council has been scored highly on parks and public spaces – a sign that its approach is on the right track in that area.
Independent market research agency National Field Services will conduct the survey over via phone.
Residents and ratepayers are selected to participate at random to capture feedback from various parts of the Shire’s community.
Individual details and responses kept confidential, and only the overall results are shared with Council.
“If you receive a call, we strongly encourage you participate and take the opportunity to share your views,” said Cr Rabie.
NOW that Highton Lane remake is almost nished, the new housing estates on the east side could start to be developed with access roads, drainage, lighting etc.
Will the town’s existing infrastructure and facilities, especially parking, cope with this large population increase of people, many eeing the Melbourne rat race for a quieter life here in Mans eld?
Mary Parker, Mans eld
I READ in the Courier (January 29, 2025) that we are being advised by our local police to contact them or Crime Stoppers to report suspicious activities in the area.
As a permanent local resident of Bonnie Doon, we seem to be the “poor relation” on several fronts.
Not only by the Shire, whose operatives appear to do the bare minimum to clean or maintain almost all areas of Greenswards except Bon Crescent, but also by failing to clear fallen trees, branches, and green waste dumped in Arnot Street next to
and along the Rail Trail.
During any holiday period, we regularly have to clear rubbish, litter, beer cans, bottles, and gra ti from our streets, with the bridge receiving regular visits a er dark.
Rarely do we get to see police patrol vehicles in the area in the early evening or a er dark.
Hooning and speeding, even when towing large boats or jet skis through the townshipespecially during holiday periods - is rife.
Although these issues have been reported by myself and others, it appears to have received little or no response.
We have had, in the recent past, mobile speed camera cars parked on Arnot Street during very quiet weekday mornings or a ernoons, but alas, not over weekends when the problem is at its worst.
I have approached operatives of these vehicles, informing them that they are wasting their time during the designated times and locations they are instructed to position themselves, only to be told that I should contact the Mans eld Police Station to ask the appropriate o cers to review their positioning.
I and others have also noted that the Highway Patrol Division is conspicuous by its absence, despite its main aim being to target driver o ences on the Maroondah Highway.
Robert Pitchford, Bonnie Doon
LETTERS to the editor must be signed with the full name, address and contact telephone number of the author provided. Letters under 250 words are preferred and we reserve the right to edit letters to fit in with space requirements. Nom de plumes will only be published at the editor’s discretion. Opinions expressed are not necessarily shared by the Courier.
Email: edit.mcourier@nemedia.com.au. Fax: (03) 5775 1580
Post: Letters to the Editor Mansfield Courier, 98 High St, Mansfield 3722.
AS the federal election draws nearer, it is appropriate that the constituents in the electorate of Indi focus on possible outcomes.
The polls are predicting a close election with a very real possibility of a hung parliament.
It is a very real possibility that independent members could decide who will be Prime Minister - Mr. Dutton or Mr. Albanese.
Campaigning during the last two elections, our Member for Indi, Helen Haines, has not declared her position should this very real scenario play out in 2025.
That raises signi cant questions as to how Ms. Haines would formulate her decision.
Would she consult with her constituents?
I would doubt that would be a realistic option.
Would she remain loyal to one of her major sponsors, Climate 200? (Simon Holmes à Court)
That option would be very real given her demonstrated commitment to renewables and climate change.
It’s almost a given that she would support the party most closely aligned to that ideology.
Perhaps we could look at her voting record, which
could indicate who she would support.
With the backing of Mr. Holmes à Court, Ms. Haines is not dissimilar to other independent members (Teals) in most all respects other than colour.
Would she follow the popular vote?
That is, the party that won the most primary votes not only in Indi but nationally.
That would be a very real measure of the mood of the nation.
In the past, independents have been governed more by ideology rather than the will of the people casting their rst preference.
Would she follow her preference distribution following the election?
The preference distribution is readily available from the AEC following the election.
I would suggest that also would be an unlikely option.
We, the voters, are again le with a very di cult, uninformed decision in Indi.
We do know that the Greens will support Mr. Albanese.
It is vital Indi constituents are well informed before we cast our vote.
All independents have an obligation to fully inform their electorates of their intentions.
We hear much about honesty and transparency in politics.
A guessing game simply does not cut it.
John Lithgow, Mans eld
By KAMMY CORDNER HUNT
THE national organisation, Rural Australians for Refugees (RAR), has a strong branch in Mans eld with a large number of members from a broad cross-section of the community.
Part of this strength may be due to the two amazing women from Merrijig who both received Australian Honours last week.
Gillian Triggs is a former Human Rights Commissioner for the Abbott Government and a Professor of Human Rights Law.
Marie Sellstrom is a former National President of RAR and a massive mover and shaker, among many other things.
Having people of such eminence in our community is very inspiring for local people to get involved.
Thanks to the e orts of the RAR in Mans eld, it is quite well known that two families from Afghanistan were assisted to come here in 2023 to escape danger a er the fall of Kabul to the Taliban.
Women in Afghanistan under the Taliban are now being subjected to unimaginable oppression - almost an eradication from society.
All windows and walls of their homes must o er no glimpse possible from the outside world to indoor life, lest it should drive men to commit crazed acts.
Likewise, their voices must not be heard in the
streets, their singing has been banned, and their schooling is now ceased at age 12.
Females cannot go outside without a male chaperone related to them - a ban which can mean mothers are unable to buy food for their families.
Situations like these keep the members of RAR Manseld resolute in their support of those still struggling to survive in Afghanistan.
They continue to pressure the government to maintain our humanitarian intake of Afghan refugees.
This year, the Tolmie Sports Committee has invited the Afghan refugee communities of Mans eld and Shepparton to run an Afghan Kitchen at their iconic,
historic event, the Tolmie Sports (this Saturday, February 8).
Afghan food is tantalising, healthy, and delicious, cooked up in copious amounts, and is always shared with beaming cheer and enthusiasm.
Make sure you get along to the Tolmie Sports this Saturday before the Afghan Kitchen runs out by popular demand.
You will be supporting their causes, like funding secret schools for girls in Afghanistan.
You will also help those at extreme risk of severe punishment from the Taliban to try for safety by getting out through the ercely guarded border.
JAMIESON ON THE LINE with Carmel Dixon
LAST week, Jamieson Primary School commenced the new year with three new students.
Retired principal Genevieve Bolwell will be teaching the junior classes for Term One.
Two Bolwell grandchildren, Nina and Foster, have started at the school, making them the third set of Bolwell grandchildren to be educated at Jamieson Primary.
Genevieve is delighted to be teaching them, and both are enjoying life in a small school and a wonderful community.
All the Bolwell children - Jess, Bec, Jacob, and Benwere also educated there.
The other new student this year is Parker Dawson-Firth.
The new students have been warmly welcomed by their peers, teachers, and staff.
We wish them well.
THE students are attending swimming lessons and coaching at the Jamieson Caravan Park pool over the next four days - great timing with a heatwave in the area.
On Friday, February 14, they will attend a hockey clinic at the school.
THE Jamieson Autumn Festival Working Bee was held on Saturday in the Memorial Hall. Nineteen volunteers and
committee members arrived at 10:00 am and completed the preparation tasks by 4:00 pm.
Signs were painted, bunting was made, streamers were coloured and dried, and fabrics were donated by the local community.
Signage from the original festival 11 years ago was retrieved and repainted for the 2025 event.
Small purses were also made for one of the festival games.
THE festival will be held over three days - April 4, 5, and 6.
On Friday, April 4th, an evening concert will be held in the Memorial Hall. Saturday will feature a full day of events, including favourites like the Gold Nugget Toss, Cow Poo Lotto, various market stalls, and entertainment venues.
There will be food and refreshment stalls and the always popular hay bale races between rival teams.
Last year, over 50 volunteers helped run the events and assisted visitors.
The committee is looking for volunteers to help make this year’s festivities a great success.
To get involved, email jamiesonautumnfestival@ gmail.com.
ON Wednesday, February 5, the Jamieson Craft Ladies will commence their weekly craft sessions for 2025.
The group of artisans
creates toys, hospital bags, and knee rugs for children in hospital and other patients as needed.
They welcome new participants to join them.
Many visitors to Jamieson stop by while the craft ladies are working and enjoy a cuppa and a chat.
All are welcome.
THE CFA members will meet next week at the Fire Station.
So far, the members have
enjoyed a quieter fire season in the local area, though they remain on alert.
They continue to stay vigilant, with all training up to date and volunteers at the ready.
THERE will be no Mass at Saint John the Apostle on Sunday, February 9th. The next Mass will be celebrated by Fr George Feliciouz on Sunday, February 23rd, at 11:00 am. All are welcome.
The upcoming scheduled Council meeting is Wednesday 12 February 2025 at 5pm and will be held both online and in person at the Council Chambers, 33 Highett Street, Mansfield.
For information on how to observe the meeting go to the events section on our website or phone (03) 5775 8555.
Students are once again using school crossings around Mansfield to make their way to and from school.
You can help our students and crossing supervisors stay safe by: driving carefully sticking to the speed limit stopping for pedestrians when flags are displayed stopping when a crossing supervisor displays a stop sign.
You may receive a call from independent market research agency National Field Services to ask you about Council's performance across a number of key areas. Your feedback helps us understand community views about our performance and guides our focus in the future. The survey is anonymous and confidential. Council only receives the overall results. To see the results of previous surveys or to give feedback at any time, visit our website.
Council is currently seeking a Maternal and Child Health Nurse. For full details visit Council's website mansfield.vic.gov.au
School crossings operate between 8-9am and 3-4pm on school days. Times may vary slightly at the end of school terms.
Kirsten Alexander, Chief Executive Officer
The Fire Danger Period (FDP) began in Mansfield Shire on 18 November 2024. Find out what you can and can't do during the Fire Danger Period and on days of Total Fire Ban at cfa.vic.gov.au/can.
Mansfield Code Club is returning this year, with the following sessions from 4pm - 5pm at the Mansfield Youth Centre, 7 Erril Street: Primary students (8-12 yrs) on Mondays Secondary students (12-18) on Wednesdays
If you’re interested in signing up scan the QR code. For more details or if you are interested in volunteering, please contact the Youth Team at 5775 8619.
By MIKE SMITH
FISH stocks of trout cod and Macquarie perch have been released into the Goulburn River alongside 10 other waterways across regional Victoria in a bid to bolster populations of threatened sh species.
Minister for Outdoor Recreation and Environment Steve Dimopoulos announced the successful stocking of a record 141,000 trout cod and nearly 100,000 Macquarie perch into the waterways backed by a $15 million state government investment into expanding sh hatcheries.
“Record stocking of trout cod is another important step towards the recovery of this threatened species, which was once common in Victoria’s northeast rivers,” Mr Dimopoulos said.
Five waters shared in the 141,000 trout cod ngerlings, which is nearly triple the previous best of 51,000 ngerlings in 2001.
Amongst them were the Campaspe and Kiewa rivers, where trout cod have been absent for decades, along with Corryong Creek, and the King and Goulburn rivers.
The Kiewa River, in Victoria’s northeast, is the big winner this year with 30,000 trout cod and 30,000 Macquarie perch stocked. Macquarie perch were once abundant in northern rivers but declined signicantly and have been extinct in the Kiewa River since 1939.
Their recovery has been prioritised through stocking, habitat restoration, monitor-
ing and dedicated research.
The Victorian Fisheries Authority’s Snobs Creek team and partners are pursuing the holy grail of ‘Cracking the Code’ to breed Macquarie perch in captivity, reducing the need to source sh from the wild every breeding season.
In a rst for the program, male Macquarie perch that were bred at Snobs Creek in 2019 and 2020 have now been used to fertilise eggs from wild females, to produce some of this season’s ngerlings.
Other waters to share in the Macquarie perch ngerlings stocked recently include Cudgewa and Hughes creeks, the Broken, Bu alo, Goulburn, Ovens and King rivers, and Lake Dartmouth.
HELEN Haines has kicked o 2025 with her rst policy announcement to boost housing supply in Indi and regional Australia.
Well-established as a vocal advocate for investment into improved infrastructure in rural Victoria, she has now launched her vision for a $2 billion Regional Housing Infrastructure Fund.
Dr Haines continues to lead the national debate on housing infrastructure policy, always pushing to deliver more homes for regional Australians.
“An a ordable and secure home sets people up to thrive and build their lives,”
Dr Haines said.
“The current housing crisis is making life hard for too many people, holding back the growth of our region and a ecting essential service delivery.”
Dr Haines said the fund would build the paths, poles and the power that must go in before new homes can be built.
“We have the land and the vision, but we need to properly invest in the infrastructure to develop our towns and regional cities.
“Consecutive governments have failed to acknowledge that regional councils and smaller towns struggle to increase their housing supply because of critical infrastructure like sewerage, water and power.
“The economies of scale that work in the cities apply di erently in the country,
but governments keep ignoring this problem.
“I’m unashamedly ambitious for regions like ours and cannot accept the drip feeding of funding when there are regions desperate for help with basic infrastructure like water connections. It is literally stunting our growth.
“More than a third of people live in regional, rural or remote Australia and it is beyond time we had a dedicated fund that gives us a fair share of regional housing.
“My plan will unlock new housing supply and deliver regional Australia their fair share.”
Pointing to the levels of housing stress in Indi, Dr Haines said enabling infrastructure for new builds was key to reducing stress and addressing workforce shortages across Indi.
“In Indi, more than 40% of renters experience rental stress and more than 60% of homeowners are nding it hard to pay the mortgage and juggle their bills.
“For an entire generation of Australians, the prospect of home ownership – or even nding a secure rental – feels out of reach and unattainable, and this is keenly felt in regional areas. Parents are worried about the nancial security for their children in the future.
“We’re losing tens of millions o our local economy each year because there’s nowhere for new workers moving to the regions to live.
“It’s impacting essential services, like nursing,
teaching and aged care.”
The Regional Housing Infrastructure Fund proposed by Dr Haines builds on sustained advocacy by Dr Haines in this last term of Parliament.
In 2023, Dr Haines introduced legislation to guarantee dedicated funding for enabling infrastructure in regional, rural and remote Australia.
In 2024, Dr Haines introduced an updated ‘Fair Share for Regional Housing Bill’ to make it clear that regional Australia needs a fair share and to centre government action at local governments and community.
Dr Haines has achieved success in amending the Government’s housing legislation to ensure there is a regional voice at the table.
The Government announced the $500 million Housing Support Program to fund enabling infrastructure just weeks a er Dr Haines met with the Prime Minister.
The Opposition recently announced it would set aside 30 per cent of its housing fund for regional communities, adopting the policy Dr Haines has long advocated for.
“The work I’ve done in the last two years has reaped rewards in getting a focus on the needs of regional Australia, but we can’t stop there,” said Dr Haines.
“We’ve got funding coming through, but I want to see a bigger, long-term vision for ensuring we have housing security and a ordability in regional Australia.”
By LYNN ELDER
AGE is no barrier for keen social cyclist Judy Flanders who took on the challenge of riding 80kms for a signi cant birthday recently with the support of members of the Mans eld Social Cyclists Group.
What started out as a throwaway line a few months ago snowballed when others put up their hands to join her on January 25 for a birthday ride.
“I wasn’t sure if I could do it, but I regularly ride twice a week with the group, so I didn’t do any training,” said Judy.
“I have always ridden a bike from when I started school and never stopped,” she said.
“I love the freedom of cycling; in minutes you can get out of Mans eld into the countryside and there is always something new to look at.”
When Judy moved to Mansfield in 2017, she reached out for expressions of interest for others to join her for local social rides.
From a handful of riders doing rides once a week to now boasting 10 to 30 regular members riding up to twice a week, away trips a recent addition, and a chance to play golf with new friends at the local course, the Mans eld Social Cyclists has morphed into a fun and supportive group of all ages and tness levels.
Joining Judy on her 80 for 80
challenge was nine members who did the whole ride while nine others opted for a shorter 40km route.
The group headed o from the Mans eld Information Centre on the rail trail then did several loops around various Mans eld country roads, with those doing the longer ride cycling to Merton and back to Bonnie Doon for a celebratory lunch.
More than 35 people including riders, friends and family gathered at a group member’s farm for lunch and an opportunity to toast the birthday girl and congratulate her on a great e ort.
“It was a lovely way to celebrate my birthday and catch up with everyone,” said Judy adding it was “perfect weather” for the ride. She is a great believer that age
is no barrier to getting out and keeping t.
While Judy has not needed to transition to an E-bike, anyone who rides one is also most welcome in the group which has an inclusive attitude.
“If you see us in our yellow Mans eld Social Cyclists’ jerseys, come and say hello if you are interested in joining us,” Judy said.
By STEVE KELLY
BUILDING apprentices will be paid $10,000 in an initiative to address a chronic tradie shortage and help overcome Australia’s housing crisis.
From July 1, eligible apprentices in the residential construction sector will receive $10,000 in incentive payments, on top of their wages under a new Key Apprentices Program.
The new payment will be staged at 6, 12, 24, 36 and upon completion.
The average wage for an ap-
prentice carpenter in Australia is between $18.72 to $25.50 per hour or $31,000 to $53,000 per annum, as of December 2024, according to Payscale.
Apprentices in the building and construction industry currently receive a $5000 payment, which is front-loaded and this payment will remain available for apprentices who are not eligible for the Key Apprentices Program and it has been extended until the end of 2025.
Master Builders Australia CEO Denita Wawn said Australia’s building and construc-
tion industry faces the enormous task of building enough homes, commercial premises and infrastructure to meet increasing demand and a growing population.
“Labour shortages are currently the biggest handbrake on xing the housing crisis,” she said.
“Coupled with government funding of fee free vocational education and training, there is no better time to pick up the tools and become a tradie.
“The revised staggering of payments is something Mas-
ter Builders Australia has long called for, so there is a nancial incentive for apprentices to complete their training.
“Around 50 per cent of all apprentices do not complete their training - the new staged payments approach will hopefully see the rate of completions increase.
“Builders would like to see this payment expanded to other areas of the building and construction industry that are also facing chronic shortages and crying out for more apprentices.”
She is also quick to add that doing “co ee is mandatory” and you may spot them in Mans eld outside a local café.
Plans are underway for a ride on the rail trail from Yackandandah to Beechworth in March.
Judy is not sure about doing a 90km challenge in 10 years’ time, but she intends to keep the wheels rolling as long as she can.
Apprentice payment will assist in helping workers buy their own tools
◀ LOGO: Jock’s 12-year-old son even designed the team’s logo, which will feature prominently on their car.
◀ OUTBACK ROUTE: The route spans iconic outback destinations, including Yulara, Oodnadatta, Silverton, and Bourke, before reaching the Gold Coast.
By SHAUN MCMAHON
LOCALS Jock Christopher and Brendan Noonan are gearing up for the adventure of a lifetime a er being accepted into the highly soughta er Shitbox Rally Spring 2025.
The rally, which raises funds for cancer research, challenges teams to navigate the harsh Australian outback in cars valued at $1500 or less.
“Over the past few years, I’ve lost family and friends to cancer and wish to do something to raise money for research, and here we are,” Jock shared.
“It’s a challenge to get an old car
to the value of $1500 dollars or less across the Australian outback on very unforgiving roads.”
“I think we’ve all be touched in some way by cancer.
“Just prior to Christmas 2023 My father, Jock Christopher senior lost his 10-year battle with cancer.
“So, Brendan and I decided to try and help where possible.
“I got talking to another local, Luke Trewarn from Maindample who has been involved with the Shitbox rally for quite a few years now, and I thought that’s a great challenge to raise money for a great cause.”
Jock and Brendan are participat-
◀ BIG CHALLENGE: It’s a challenge to get an old car to the value of $1500 dollars or less across the Australian outback on very unforgiving roads.
RUGGED JOURNEY: The car taking them on this rugged journey is a secondhand Holden VS ute, complete with some wear and tear but plenty of character.
ing in the Spring Run, which starts in Alice Springs and nishes on the Gold Coast.
feature prominently on their car.
The route spans iconic outback destinations, including Yulara, Oodnadatta, Silverton, and Bourke, before reaching the Gold Coast.
Their team, aptly named ‘Thunder Box Broken,’ will need to raise at least $5000 in donations for the Cancer Council to secure their place.
The car taking them on this rugged journey is a secondhand Holden VS ute, complete with some wear and tear but plenty of character.
Jock’s 12-year-old son even designed the team’s logo, which will
“We understand times are tough, and sometimes it’s hard to nd the spare money to donate,” Jock acknowledged.
“Anything that anyone can do is a huge help, even y cents.
“Donations go straight to the Cancer Council via the website through our team.”
The Shitbox Rally, known for its humour and camaraderie, has built a reputation for bringing out the best in participants and their supporters.
“With sponsorship, business names on cars, etcetera, please contact us directly,” he said.
“Even a pre-paid visa for fuel is tax-deductible, or any unwanted parts could make a di erence.”
All donations over two dollars are tax-deductible and can be made directly to the team’s page on the Shitbox Rally website.
Locals interested in supporting Jock and his team can visit their page on the Shitbox Rally website at www.shitboxrally.com.au.
“Hop onto the website and check out videos; bloody hilarious what some of us do to raise money and awareness,” said Jock. In addition to raising funds, the team is looking for sponsorship support from businesses.
THE third annual Horsepower in the High Country show ‘n shine, complete with kids’ activities, live music and food and beverage, revved up what’s believed to be another record number of cars and spectators this year.
The event, run by the Delatite Drivers Car Club in partnership with Mans eld Shire Council, and sponsored by Community Bank Mans eld and District, is a family friendly, community day out that also raises funds for Mans eld Autism Statewide Services.
Kerri Grant, school principal at Mans eld Autism, was thrilled with the turnout on the day and the strong support from the local community for the show.
“The support is phenomenal,” Ms Grant said.
“It’s extraordinary how the community gets behind Manseld Autism.
“This event is really important in terms of fundraising for the resources that will help us implement best practice teaching in classrooms that are purposeful and meet the needs of our kids.”
Dorothy Sutton of Euroa entered her hot pink 1932 Ford Coupe for the rst time this year, in large part because autism services are a cause close to her heart.
As well as having grandchildren who are on the autism spectrum, Dorothy, owner of Yahoo Driving School in Benalla, takes great delight in helping autistic
people, who’ve been told they’ll never drive, to show the naysayers how mistaken they are.
“I teach a lot of autistic kids because I understand they may need to do things a bit di erently, they’ll need a break,” Ms Sutton said.
it is expected that fundraising will deliver over $20,000 to the farm’s co ers.
Simone Reeves Chief Executive of Mans eld Autism thanked everyone who made the day a success.
“I get the kids on the road and some of them still ring me up and tell me how they’re doing.”
Mans eld Autism will use the funds raised from this years’ show ‘n shine to purchase furniture needed to t out new classrooms and golf carts to assist those with mobility restrictions to get around the new 100 acre therapeutic care farm.
Funds are still being tallied but
“We just nished running a family camp at the Farm and I arrived to see the show in full swing, with smiles everywhere,” she said.
“I’d like to thank everyone who entered, attended, donated, volunteered, sponsored and bought a ra e ticket, with special thanks to Cameron McGann of Delatite Drivers Car Club, Mans eld Shire Council and Community Bank Mans eld and District.”
Mansfield Code Club is back for 2025 a er a successful year in 2024, with over 40 participants and six volunteers.
MANSFIELD Code Club is back for 2025 a er a successful year in 2024, with over 40 participants and six volunteers.
Last year, members explored Scratch, HTML, and Python.
Code Club member, Angus Brazier (12yo) completed a traineeship through Code Club Australia while assisting volunteers with lessons.
The Mans eld Youth Centre, where Code Club is hosted, has recently upgraded its computer room, including an impressive futuristic mural by local artist “Ohnus”.
This year, Code Club will continue with the following sessions from 4pm – 5pm at the Mans eld Youth Centre, 7 Erril Street.
Primary students (8-12 yrs) on Mondays Secondary students (12-18) on Wednesdays
Those interested in boosting their coding skills should visit Mans eld Shire Youth’s Facebook or Instagram and follow the link to register.
For more details or if you are interested in volunteering, please contact the Youth Team at 5775 8619.
■ From front page
“Beautiful long-time local Pam Kirley is assistant educator for both kinder classes,” said Farmhouse founder Kim Stoney.
“All the children are super excited to return to kinder where they’ll be thriving in our nature-based indoor and outdoor program.
“As well as participating weekly in our Stephanie Alexander KitchenGarden Program and our Intergenerational Learning Program that we conduct in collaboration with the sta and residents at Bindaree, students will be tapping into their curiosity on bush trips
to our wonderful local rivers and bush spots.
“It’s going to be a fabulous year,” she said.
AT St Mary’s Primary School, 23 eager preps joined the school community, with a Thursday start for the new cohort.
“The transition for these young learners has been remarkably smooth, with their bright smiles and enthusiastic engagement in learning tasks lling our halls,” said principal Trish Etcell.
Over the rst two weeks, sta at St. Mary’s focus
on establishing learning routines, creating smooth transitions, and clear procedures to ensure all new students understand what is expected of them at the school.
“This foundational process aims to create a conducive learning environment where children feel comfortable and prepared to learn,” Ms Etcell said.
“By laying this solid groundwork, we are setting the stage for the successful implementation of the full participation model and explicit teaching methods across all grades.
“Our goal is to empower
each student to reach their full potential and thrive academically in a supportive and engaging educational setting.”
Ms Etcell con rmed the whole school is looking forward to seeing the new preps grow and develop during their time at St Mary’s.
“We are excited about the journey of learning and discovery that lies ahead for each and every one of them,” she said.
“The St. Mary’s Mans eld community is proud to welcome these bright young minds into our school family.”
ONEON-ONE: Students were in the classroom for the first time at the Ogilvies Road campus of Mansfield Autism.
MANSFIELD Steiner School were excited to welcome 31 new students and their families to the school in 2025, bringing the school population to 255.
Class one is the introduction to the primary school for the students, as they move from early childhood learning which encompasses playgroup, kindergarten and prep to more formal learning.
This year 17 students joined the ‘big’ school, with their class ve buddies welcoming them with a ceremony during assembly, recognising the signi cance of the event.
“We also acknowledged our Year 12 students as they begin their last year of school,” said Steiner principal Glenn Hood, with the assembly followed by a special morning tea for parents both new and old. Fifteen students across year 11 and 12 are now undertaking the International Baccalaureate diploma at the school which is a two-year course.
Over the summer Steiner had a new stage constructed in the school’s Melliodora Hall with the theatre curtains arriving in the next month.
■ Continued page 15
■ From page 14
“We look forward to many wonderful performances on the stage in the years to come and invite community groups to access the space if it is appropriate for their event,” said Mr Hood.
ACTING principal Nicole Comerford was meeting and greeting all new preps to Mansfield Primary School on the Friday, with the school embracing a staggered approach to the introduction to the classroom.
A total of 57 students along with their families joined the throng outside
the school for a photograph of this significant milestone.
The only tears that seemed to be shed were by parents, as the school’s youngest cohort eagerly began the next step in their educational journey.
Welcoming a new contingent into the classroom the school captains for 2025 Alice Rademaker, Cody Place, Hunter Day and Madeline Hayes took on their rst o cial duty for the year, chaperoning new students to their classrooms.
The school was all a-buzz as grade six students
christened their new classroom with rst classes kicking o in the primary school’s newest space.
Complete with brand new furniture, the double-storey classroom arrived midJanuary just in time for the new school year.
“We also welcomed 10 new and returning sta this year,” said Ms Comerford of the year ahead.
MERRIJIG Primary School welcomed 16 students back into the classroom, with the whole school community taking Merrijig’s one prep under their collective wing.
“The year has started well with the rst day theme being Time to Thrive in 2025,”said acting principal Kylie McCormack.
“We are looking forward to adventures in our beautiful, local surrounds, and exciting learning opportunities.”
AND for the rst time at its Ogilvies Road campus, Mans eld Autism Statewide Services welcomed students into the classroom on Monday, realising the long-held vision to deliver a leading edge educational facility at the 100 acre site.
Five classrooms currently cater to 24 students.
Enrolments are either full-time or dual as some students attend both Mans eld Autism and a local school on di erent days.
All educational facilities then collaborate to support the students’ integration into mainstream education and achieve their learning goals.
The school also provides support for students on skillbuilding stays who enrol for two week blocks and stay on-campus.
Principal Kerrie Grant said students were excited to be in the new purpose built space, with the first day seeing children arriving early, keen to see
their new school.
“There were lots of big smiles, despite some expected rst-day anxieties,” said Ms Grant.
“We had introduced them to the building and all its classrooms and completed a transition to the space, but the furnishings weren’t in place at the time so they hadn’t actually seen it set up as a proper classroom.
“Today is the rst day they are actually using the space as it was intended, and everybody is thrilled.”
More back to school photos in next week’s Mans eld Courier.
Our papers don’t engage in clickbait, they don’t produce or publish fake AI content, they work hard to ensure mis and dis information are not allowed to fester in the communities we serve.
- ANDREW SCHREYER, COUNTRY PRESS AUSTRALIA PRESIDENT
its
META’S plans for the removal of fact-checking services on content posted to its platforms and the government’s decision to introduce age limits for access to social media has brought a renewed focus on the importance of regional, rural and local news publishers, according to Country Press Australia (CPA).
Andrew Schreyer, Country Press Australia president, said publishers have never been tasked with so many layers of responsibility, and it’s never been more vital for the work they do to be appropriately recognised and valued by government and the broader community.
“The decisions local newsrooms make about content, photo selection, accuracy, fairness, balance and integrity go to the heart of the cra of journalism,” Mr Schreyer said.
“Our papers don’t engage in
clickbait, they don’t produce or publish fake AI content, they work hard to ensure mis and dis information are not allowed to fester in the communities we serve.”
Mr Schreyer said the vast majority of Country Press Australia publishers are the only local media outlet with boots on the ground in these communities, producing public interest place-based journalism that ful lls a vital role in our democracy.
“Country Press Australia is disappointed at Meta’s decision to abandon third-party fact checking on its Facebook and Instagram platforms in the US.
“Third-party fact checking has not yet been abandoned on Meta platforms in Australia, however the move in the US may be an indication of Meta’s intentions worldwide and is a worry-
ing development regardless.”
Equally, Country Press Australia has welcomed Communications Minister Michelle Rowland’s strong comments that came in the wake of Meta’s announcement and her support for high quality fact checked information for the public, such as the place-based public interest journalism produced by Country Press Australia’s 240 member mastheads.
“We are also heartened by comments from eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant on the harms of social media and the responsibility to comply with Australian law,” he said.
“The mis and disinformation that spreads on Meta’s platforms are harmful to people’s health, wellbeing and to social cohesion.
“This information can be hard for consumers to recognise.
“The removal of third-party fact checking will see the levels of mis and disinformation on social media increase exponentially.
“Without any fact checking mechanism the rates of mental health issues caused by social media will no doubt rise.”
He commended the government for its recently announced News Bargaining Incentive and News Media Assistance Program funding which will help Country Press Australia member publishers continue to produce the quality local public interest journalism that is so well trusted by its audiences.
“Professionally produced local public interest journalism, such as that produced by Country Press Australia mastheads, is the antidote to mis and disinformation and this has been well recognised by the government,” he said.
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
A BENALLA girl was found dead near a camping ground in Benalla on Saturday morning.
Police said emergency services were called to a camping ground on Goulding Close after the 14-year-old was located in the Broken River just before 10am.
Police said her death is not being treated as suspicious and they will prepare a report for the coroner.
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
MARIAN College is being investigated by a legal firm following accusations of historic child abuse dating back to the 1990s.
Shine Lawyers have advertised a call out for witnesses following the claims at the Myrtleford secondary college.
The advertisement asks students or staff members of the school at the time of the claims of child abuse to come forward and speak confidentially with a lawyer to assist with the law firm’s ongoing investigation.
Executive director of Catholic Education Sandhurst Ltd Kate Fogarty said the safeguarding of their students remained the Catholic school’s highest priority.
“We express our deepest concern for all survivor-victims of child sexual abuse and acknowledge the profound pain and suffering that such experiences cause,” she said.
“We have robust protocols and policies in place to support the safety and wellbeing of all students.
“We are committed to maintaining a transparent and open dialogue with our community and if any member of your community has any concerns or needs support, please do not hesitate to contact the Catholic Education Sandhurst office.”
Anyone with information about the allegations at the Myrtleford school can contact senior solicitor Penny Toniolos on 03 9616 4209 or ptoniolos@shine.com.au.
ACROSS
4 What are the titles of emperors of Japan (7)
8 Name another term for lucerne (7)
9 Which radioactive element is the basis of nuclear reactors (7)
10 Name that part of the skull that encloses the brain (7)
11 Which name is popularly used to refer to the USA (7)
12 What is a written summary, note, or memorandum (6)
14 Who is the treasurer of a college or university (6)
18 To be harsh in manner, is to be what (7)
21 Name a mythical tribe of female warriors in South America (7)
22 To be more mirthful, is to be what (7)
23 Name a colourless, flammable liquid obtained in the distillation of petroleum (7)
24 Who was the Biblical disciple and companion of the apostle Paul (7)
DOWN
1 Name a silver-white divalent metal occurring in limestone, gypsum, etc, symbol Ca (7)
2 Which term describes anything worthless or discarded (5)
3 That which is unlawful is considered to be what (7)
4 Name a political movement among the Kikuyu of Kenya, aimed at driving out European settlers (3,3)
5 What is an alternative name in cards for the Jack (5)
6 What are small ornamental table napkins (7)
7 Apia was formerly the capital of which group of islands in the Southern Pacific (5)
13 What is a patent medicine known as (7)
Letters have a number value
Some values are in the right hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
15 Kyiv is the capital of which eastern European republic (7)
16 Name the male of the domesticated fowl (7)
17 To be close at hand, is to be what (6)
18 To confess is to do what (5)
19 What is a decree issued by a sovereign or other authority (5)
20 Name a specific poisonous product that might cause tetanus, diptheria, etc (5)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.
1 FATUOUS (a) Prophetical (b) Silly (c) Obese
2 NUPTIAL
(a) That may be numbered or counted (b) Pertaining to marriage (c) Nourishing
Build it yourself using the clues and each of the twenty-four letters once only to form ten words: five across and five down. A key word (bold clue) builds on the letter set in the grid.
CLUES:
Causing pain (7)
Companion animal (3)
Engaged an employee (5)
Mouse genus (3)
Prefix: one millionth (5)
Recall: ... To mind (5)
Sale by bidding (7) Unity (3)
Vertically hung fishing net ( 5) Wheel centre (3)
A NEW pictorial guide to wetland birds of North East Victoria is now available to help the community get to know their local birdlife.
Developed by Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA), the guide features 52 wetland birds including critically endangered species such as the Australian Paintedsnipe and the Arctic breeding migrant Sharp-tailed Sandpiper.
“Visiting local wetlands and observing birds is a great way to get outdoors and connect with nature,” said Dan Pendavingh, DEECA natural environment program o cer.
“North East Victorian wetlands are critical habitat for an array of wetland birds, including threatened species.
“Wetland-dependent bird species are declining at an alarming rate.
“Of the 52 species listed in the bro-
chure, 14 are threatened and therefore are protected under state and national environmental legislation.
“The fact that they call North East Victoria home makes our wetlands extra special.
“Permanent and temporary wetlands are critical for biodiversity and ecological productivity, so it’s important that we conserve and restore wetland habitats to support their bird populations.”
DEECA’s natural environment program supports the conservation of wetlands on private and public land.
Ongoing work to protect and restore wetland habitats including weed and predator control and environmental watering is also supported by Catchment Management Authorities and community groups.
The wetlands birds guide was developed in partnership with Goulburn
Broken Catchment Management Authority, North East Catchment Management Authority, Birdlife Australia, Swamps, Rivers and Ranges and RiverConnect.
It adds to the existing collection of North East Victorian ora and fauna brochures developed by DEECA, including reptiles and frogs, wild owers of the foothills and mountains, turtles and sh and woodland birds.
Visit the DEECA website for an online copy and to download the full collection https://www.environment.vic.gov.au/ biodiversity/ ora-and-fauna-brochuresof-ne-victoria-hume-region.
Hard copies are available from DEECA’s Wodonga, Benalla and Ovens o ces, Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority, North East Catchment Management Authority and RiverConnect in Shepparton.
By ANDY WILSON
AVENEL residents awoke to a decorative display of ribbons on the morning of Sunday, 26 January which were tied to fences, gates and doors of key town sites.
The ribbons - in red, black, and yellow - were to remind the community of the need to recognise that 26 January is a date that others do not celebrate.
Avenel resident David Willis said the community needed to have compassion for the history of Australia’s rst nations people.
“Our Taungurung neighbours have told us Australia Day hurts,” Mr Willis said.
“(But) allies listen and learn with compassion.”
Mr Willis said the Strathbogie shire council were ‘out of step’ with their responsibilities in the decision to recommence funding for Australia Day events.
“Our council, as one of their rst decisions, has ignored the expert views of Taungurung and of their own
executive to step backwards from their responsibilities,” he said.
“A er years of collaboration, work, and consultation, our new council - without consultation - chose to hurt their community.
“Avenel ribbon-bombing is a reminder of that insensitive decision.
“It mocks any attempt for reconciliation in our community.”
Wednesday, February 5, 2025
CWA Monthly Meetings:
2nd Tuesday 6.00pm or 3rd Sunday 2.00pm (alternating each month: Feb-Tues).
CWA Craft Days: CWA Craft: 1st & 3rd Wednesday 10:00am, and 4th Wednesday 6:00pm of each month.
CWA Op shop open: CWA Op shop open: most days from 10:00am to 2:00pm.
Family History Group at Mansfield Library. 3pm every 4th Thursday of the month.
High Country Poets meet at the Mansfield Library on the 3rd Friday of the month at 1:30 pm. Members of the public all welcome to come and listen / or share their poetic ramblings.
Justice of the Peace Services
– Every Thursday, Mansfield Police Station. 10am to 1pm for witnessing and signing of documents.
Lima South Old Time Dance: At Lima South Hall the second Sunday of each month between 1pm and 5pm. Entry $10. Music provided by The Ramblers. Please bring a plate of afternoon tea to share. All welcome. Contact: 0425868277.
Mansfield Croquet Club –Monday and Wednesday mornings from 9am till 12 noon, Lord‘s Reserve, Cnr Victoria and Apollo Streets. Playing equipment available, $2 per session.
Mansfield Farmers’ Marketsfourth Saturday of the month (February to December), 8.30am to 1pm at the median strip between the Post Office and the Delatite Hotel.
Monday Mingle – Every Monday – organised by the Bonnie Doon Community Centre – chat and make new friends – new theme each week. BYO ideas for activities – all ages and abilities
Mansfield support group for carers and people with special needs – morning coffee, third Tuesday of the month, 9.30am at Bob’s Shed, Rosehaven, 82a Malcolm Street Mansfield. Ph 0409 751 593.
Mansfield Let’s Talk - Coffee & Chat every third Wednesday of the month from 10am to 12pm at the Delatite Hotel. All welcome, No bookings required.
FEBRUARY 8: Tolmie Sports. Tolmie Sports Ground, Old Tolmie Road, Tolmie, 9am-5pm. $10 Adults, $5 Students and Pensioners, Kids U5 FREE.
FEBRUARY 10: Out’n’About group will be meeting at The Delatite Hotel at 11:00am for 11:30am start. Bring your ideas for monthly activities. New members welcome. For more details call Trish 0437 357 829.
FEBRUARY 17: U3A will be meeting at 10:00am at The Beolite Village
MARCH 7-10
MANSFIELD POTTERY FESTIVAL2025 WHERE EVERYONE IS WELCOME TO MEET AND BUY DIRECT FROM POTTERS
FEBRUARY 8
TOLMIE SPORTS, TOLMIE SPORTS GROUND
Mansfield Let’s Talk - Chill & Chat every second Tuesday of the month from 6.30pm to 8.30pm at Bowser Bean (BP) dining lounge 145 Mt. Buller Rd. For further info/enquiries email: mansfieldletstalk@gmail. com
Mansfield Uniting Church - Highett Street Sunday services, 9.30am. All welcome. Ph 0417 103 813
Men‘s Probus meetings are held every 2nd Wednesday for monthly meetings, and then activities/outings are held on the last Wednesday of each month – or as organised.
Outdoor Provedore, producers market, 8.30am to 12.30pm on the High Street median strip, opposite the CWA (third Saturday of every month).
Out’n’About social group meets for lunch on the second Monday of the month at The Delatite Hotel at 11:30am.
Preschool story time at Mansfield Library. Stories, songs and craft. Every 1st and 3rd Friday of the month 10.30am. Ph 5775 8621
MARCH 8
MERRIJIG RODEOMCCORMACK PARK, MERRIJIG
Community Room to watch ‘The Sound of Music’ DVD. Lunch will be provided for U3A members. Please bring $2.00 for room hire. For further details call Trish 0437 357 829.
FEBRUARY 22: Trash 2 Treasure event, Merrijig Public Hall, 10am-2pm.
FEBRUARY 22: Merton Skate Park Opening Day, Merton Recreation Reserve, 3138 Merton-Euroa Rd Merton. Music, activities and refreshments, 2pm-5pm.
FEBRUARY 23: Country singer Sara Storer to perform at Delatite Hotel for first time visit to Mansfield - booking enquiries from hotel.
MARCH 7-10: Mansfield Pottery Festival - 2025 where everyone is welcome to meet and buy direct from potters.
MARCH 8: Merrijig RodeoMcCormack Park, Merrijig - gates open 12pm - junior events from 1pm - main event 6pm to 10pm.
Rotary meet the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month at the Delatite Hotel. 6.30 for a 7pm start.
Rural Australians for Refugees (RAR) meet every fourth Monday of the month at 6pm at the Uniting Church Hall.
Scrabble Club for all levels meets at 10am every Wednesday at Mansfield Library. Ph 5775 8621
St John’s Anglican Church - meditation every Friday at 12 noon for a quiet half hour to restore your peace. Ph Christine 0412 825 324
St Vincent de Paul assistance center, Highett Street - Tuesday 10am12pm, Wednesday 2pm4pm, Friday 10am-12pm and 2pm-5pm. Phone 5775 3156.
Tolmie Uniting Church - Tolmie Sportsground, 3rd Sunday of the month. Service at 2pm. All welcome.
U3A meetings are held on 1st and 3rd Mondays of each month at 10am at the Library.
DON’T hesitate or you will miss this incredible opportunity to own this substantial riverfront property in an awe inspiring destination. Located in the historic township of Jamieson in the Victorian High Country, this property is the perfect canvas for your dream getaway, lucrative business venture, or family escape. This significant holding includes:
A well built 4 bedroom/2 bathroom primary residence in a private garden setting
Four separate 2 bedroom fully self-contained cottages
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Abundance of water with pumping rights from the river and a massive ‘lake’ dam 24 acres which includes grazing paddocks and open parkland gardens
Communal facilities perfect for yoga retreats, weddings, corporate events etc
Established tourism business run as ‘Jamieson Valley Retreat’
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Land 24 acres
MANSFIELD’S Flavorite tomato farm is just one enterprise in the horticultural sector adopting the latest in automation technology to combat workforce challenges.
Technology for pollinating, spraying, harvesting and packing to boost productivity is being embraced across the industry, with estimated labour savings on the table of up to 90 per cent.
Driven by industry, delivered through Hort Innovation and led by Applied Horticultural Research, the $52M program will help protected cropping growers maintain their pro tability by advancing the industry’s approach towards sustainability, agronomy, automation, energy, employee skills and management.
Hort Innovation chief executive Brett Fi eld said the program was designed by growers, for growers.
“With more than $20M invested directly from growers in this program, this industry-driven initiative holds immense potential for advancing the protected crop-
ping sector in Australia,” Mr Fi eld said.
“By embracing automation and technological advancements, growers can achieve greater sustainability, improve crop quality, and enhance pro tability, paving the way for a more e cient and competitive future.”
Applied Horticultural Research managing director Dr Gordon Rogers said the program had been designed in collaboration with major growers, researchers and technology providers to ensure it is t-for-purpose.
Flavorite Group chief operating o cer Chris Millis said the company is looking to employ a range of robotic solutions to revolutionise their pollinating, spraying, harvesting and packing operations.
Flavorite has sites in Warragul, Mans eld Shire and Tatura, with the main headquarters at Warragul where the group grows tomatoes, cherry tomatoes and capsicums.
Locally, the group have over 5.5 hectares of undercover cropping in Barwite
growing tomatoes hydroponically.
“New technology will allow for the e ective management of labour, enabling the redeployment of people or teams to other businessbuilding activities that have
previously been limited due to resource availability,” Mr Millis said.
“We currently hand-pollinate 50 hectares of tomatoes grown in glasshouses six times per week for 41 weeks.
“If pollination could be
mechanised, our labour requirements could be reduced by 80 per cent.”
“Another example is packing, a labour-intensive activity that is a major cost in our business.
“Implementing an automated packing approach could save our business around $2.4 million per year.”
Another Victorian enterprise, Costa Group general manager for avocados, Cormac te Kloot said the avocado industry is set to reach new heights by adopting the latest tech.
“This program will advance the avocado industry’s approach towards sustainability, agronomy, automation, energy usage, and improving sta skills and management,” Mr te Kloot said.
“We have developed a new containerised, under-cover avocado production system where avocados are grown in containers lled with growing media under shade netting at high densities, instead of the conventional open eld orchard production model.
“This research will fast
track this new production model and help avocado growers compete in global export markets.”
Protected cropping Australia executive o cer Julie Krieger said the program focuses on key priorities identi ed in the Australian Protected Cropping Strategy 2021-2030.
“We set a vision for a thriving Australian protected cropping industry, which is positioned for growth, sustainability, prosperity and international competitiveness,” Ms Krieger said.
“As part of the Strategy, industry identi ed optimising t-for-purpose, cost-e ective technologies as a priority, as well as increasing knowledge, capacity and practice change, which this program will address.”
The program is funded through Hort Innovation’s Frontiers investment program and has co-investment from Flavorite, Apex Greenhouses, Costa Group, Applied Horticultural Research, Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) and Polybee.
QUEENSLAND Fruit Fly
could potentially increase by more than 200 per cent and up to 600 per cent in the Goulburn Murray Valley by 2026 without an adequately funded Fruit Fly Program.
An analysis developed by an internationally recognised expert and specialist in Fruit Fly, Mr Andrew Jessup, has outlined that Queensland Fruit Fly (Q y) numbers are expected to increase 205 per cent (best case scenario) and over 600 per cent (worst case scenario) by 2026 without a su cient Area Wide Management (AWM) program to manage and control fruit y within the Goulburn Murray Valley (GMV).
The analysis that has factored in weather and climate, outlines that an adequately funded AWM program is crucial to managing fruit y within the GMV and that fruit y numbers can be managed if an AWM program is suciently nancially supported by the Victorian Government.
Fruit y numbers reduced 95 per cent in the rst year (2017/2018) as a result of the Fruit Fly Program within the GMV, and achieved a further reduction of 60 per cent in fruit y numbers in the following year.
The Victorian Government has continued to reduce the funding since the introduction of the program (from 2017/2018), resulting in a substantially decreased and compromised level of AWM from 2020/2021 onwards.
It now intends to terminate funding entirely from June 2025.
SPOILED FRUIT: Queensland Fruit Fly breed through injecting eggs into fruit, hatching larvae which then later emerge as fruit fly.
DURING the earliest phase of the GMV AWM program (when adequately funded), the program was heavily supported by many organisations, some of which had over 3,000 volunteers.
The program removed over 94,000 host plants, while education, workshops and training programs were presented to 18,000+ attendees.
The “No Flies on Us” message was promoted extensively to readers, viewers and listeners via television, radio and print.
Signage, electronic billboards, web and social media, including the release of information packs, flyers, posters and
Funding since 2017/2018 to 2024/2025 has reduced 62.5 per cent which the expert analysis con rms is not sustainable moving forward in managing Q y within the GMV. It is estimated that horticulture in the GMV region generates $1.6 Billion in Gross Regional Product. Horticulture is a signi cant producer of jobs throughout the area, creating ow-on
SIGNIFICANT PEST: Queensland Fruit Fly once hatched, continue to breed and migrate to other orchards.
stickers, were also distributed throughout the GMV to continually educate and guide the community.
In Victoria, commercial horticulture represents a total of 2,760 horticultural farm businesses (121,600 hectares).
It is the position of industry that it is unreasonable for growers to be held responsible for managing/controlling fruit and vegetables grown in Victorian residential dwellings and amongst the (approx.) 8 million hectares of public land managed/owned by the Victorian Government.
Fruit and vegetable growers already manage Qfly and contribute significant
e ects that positively ripple throughout the economy.
Victorian Horticulture in 2021/22 made up 30 per cent of Australia’s total gross value of horticulture.
The total value of horticulture exports in Victoria in 2021/22 was 45 per cent of Australia’s total horticultural exports.
At present, the majority of fruit growers protect their farms from Q y using baits
funds towards its control within their farms.
From the considerable funding reduction from 2020/21 onwards, there has been a substantial number of urban monitoring traps removed and the program went from a total of 409 monitoring traps to 200, with urban traps decreasing from 102 traps to 19.
This has ultimately led to a less proactive approach to Qfly control, placing extensive pressure on the horticultural industry in the rural areas.
In 2024 alone, Qfly numbers increased approximately 90 per cent based on trapping data due to a reduced program.
and spray however do so at a signi cant cost to their bottom line.
Q y is a concern within urban and peri urban areas where Q y breed through injecting eggs into fruit, hatching larvae which then later emerge as fruit y that continue to breed and migrate to orchards.
Signi cantly less funding since 2021 has resulted in less proactive fruit y manage-
ment occurring within the urban areas within the GMV, and Mr Jessup outlines that urban and peri urban fruit y management is crucial to managing numbers in rural areas.
“The high input Area Wide Management strategy was a fruit y management success.
“Never before has the whole community, from the state government to the backyard grower worked so well
together to the bene t of all,” said Mr Jessup.
The GMV AWM program is credited with numerous State, National and International awards and was invited to present at the 11th International Symposium on Fruit Flies of Economic Importance.
“The Victorian Government needs to take expert recommendations seriously and protect horticulture within Victoria before grower’s livelihoods and the broader regions are severely impacted,” Cobram District Fruit Growers Association, Chair Adrian Conti said.
“The management of fruit y protects the region’s exports and the reputation of the GMV as being a reliable source of high quality horticultural produce.”
“The Victorian Government has not committed to funding the program beyond June 2025 and is e ectively walking away from their biosecurity responsibilities,” said Mr Tony Siciliano, Chair of the GMV Fruit Fly Governance Group.
“The forecasts being made by an expert in fruit y are really concerning for our region’s economy.
“Our municipality is reliant on the success of horticulture and it is important that the Victorian Government support this program to continue beyond June 2025,” said Cr Shane Sali, mayor of Greater Shepparton.
The analysis commissioned by Greater Shepparton City Council can be downloaded via: https://greatershepparton.com.au/q -analysis
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Get your names in the RADIO MANSFIELD and MANSFIELD COURIER birthday book.
Win Bertalli’s birthday goodies on Radio Mansfield 99.7 FM’s “Anything Goes” Birthday Wheel Thursdays from 2-4pm This week’s winner is:
DARRYL PURCELL
To enter call Radio Mansfield on 5775 2333
2010 FG FALCON UTE, auto, 6 cylinder, LPG, low KMS 40300, 12 months rego, YFG 779. One owner, $13,500. Ph 0428 906 511.
2009 TOYOTA LANDCRUISER, 4.5CC V8 turbo diesel, genuine, 282000kms, one owner, many extras, with roadworthy, rego XCM 077, $45,000. Phone John 0427 769 534.
SUBARU OUTBACK TOURING XT 2023 build bought 2024 condition excellent never been o -road travelled 8600kms. Top of the range extras include accessory explorer pack, hydro paint/leather interior including Cancer Council Windows, sunroof ,tow- bar. Price $51000. Phone Marg 0417218966.
2023 ISUZU MUX LSU 4X4, turbo diesel, good condition, 280,090kms, reg (1II4XI), $26,000 ONO. Ph 0498 118 997.
BayHunter runabout, 1992, 4.4 metre aluminium V-hull, with canopy and side window panels, trailer and 40HP Mercury engine, life jackets, reg to Sep 25, $12,500 ONO. Ph 0419 870 472.
If you don't use it...
Mansfield Classifieds get results. 5723 0101 Sell it!
By ALLI WALKER
IT was a busy weekend for swimming as 84 swimmers from Benalla, Yea, Seymour and, of course, Mans eld took part in a series of stroke technique clinics run by E ortless Swimming who travelled to Mans eld from Geelong to share their expertise.
Coach Kai Lumsden took the swimmers through a range of technical drills and sets over the two days.
He also covered all of the strokes with an additional freestyle clinic offered to adult swimmers.
Nineteen local pool, open water and triathlon swimmers took up this opportunity which was really exciting.
Local coach Alli Walker was delighted with progress she saw unfolding before her eyes.
“Our swimmers made incredible improvements throughout the day,” she said.
“Normally our families would need to travel to Melbourne or further afield to access these sorts of clinics so it was great for the club to be able to offer these at our home pool.
“We ran 8 separate clinics to cover all age groups.”
Tony Ruddick, President of the newly formed North East Triathlon club, took part in the adult freestyle skills session on Sunday and found it to be really bene cial.
“It was a great experience with lots of positive feedback,” he said.
Thanks to everyone who participated, our coaches who learnt some new tricks and to the team at Mans eld Aquatics for supporting us with lane space.
By NATHAN DE VRIES
THE first WDCA two-day matches in 2025 came to a conclusion on the weekend, with some major implications on the current composition of finals.
Benalla Bushrangers picked up their first win of the season after successfully defending their 234 total at McNamara Reserve against Ovens Valley United.
Resuming at 0/9, the Tigers were bowled out in the 68th over for 195, 40 runs shy of their target.
Seamus Phillips would only add one run to Ovens Valley’s overnight total before he was trapped LBW by Conor Brodie for six runs.
Opening partner Gregor Fraser was likewise dismissed by Brodie, which brought the
Tigers’ batting talisman Geeth Alwis to the crease at 2/32.
Alwis was at his impressive best, rotating the strike and attacking when the ball was there on his was to 80 off 123.
At the other end, Conner Forde (16 off 30) and Cooper Thomason (23 off 43) failed to convert on their strong starts before heading back to the sheds.
Alwis would sky one to Cooper Binion in the 51st over, all but putting the final nail in coffin for the run chase.
The Tigers’ tail withered, the last four batters contributing four runs off the stick to see Ovens Valley’s inning ended.
Ross Cavill backed up his heroics with the bat last week finishing with 4/26 from 13.3 overs, while James Ladd (3/60 off 16) was effective.
Elsewhere, Beechworth
Wanderers are all but guaranteed a finals berth after chasing down City Colts’ 165 in style, cruising to 9/295 by the end of play.
The run chase was anchored by Clancy Ellett at the top of the order, scoring 105 in style.
He would eventually be run out after facing 176 deliveries in a crucial innings for his side.
Fellow opener Jackson Cull was also in the runs with his knock of 59, while Kayde Surrey was given out LBW on 49.
Colts spinner Matthew Lister was the pick of the bowlers, finishing with 6/46, while Archie Crispin (1/45) and Jed Marek (1/65) were also in the wickets.
The Wanderers sit third overall, 12.9 points ahead of Ovens Valley and Yarrawonga Mulwala.
By MARK BETTANY
IN bowls last week, the Midweek Pennant team played Yackandandah at home, coming away with all three rinks having a win Mick Walsh, Noel Jackson, Jenny Walsh and Yvonne Robinson won 22 shots up.
George Peterson, Elaine Peterson, Chris Laws and Marian Ryan got up by 3 shots and Michael Harrison, Mark Bettany, Lyn Holland and Irene Fuller won with 5 shots up.
The Home Pennant competition saw the Gold team of Ray Close, Kathleen Bock, Denis Sharpe and John Lobbe win by 2 shots to the Red team of Graeme Tyers, Tom Nicol, Ross Parsons and Phillip Jensen.
Kevin Nikkelson, Kris Humphrey, Peter Wooley and Ray Fraser in the Yellow team defeated the Blue team of Alan Dobson, Tom Ingpen, Anne Tilbrook and Ida Rachelle 31 to 12.
Team Orange with Domingo Diaz, Alan Hatcher,
Michelle Mios (and Tilley) and Glenda Hempenstall were defeated by the Lime team of Carolyn Close, Peter McNeill, Belinda Snider and Anne Wileman 23 to 12.
The final rink saw team Pink with Steve Lewis, Brian Sinclair, Gwen Gray and Cathy Johnson defeat Tony Pridham, Glenda Revell, Tony Wilks and Renee Prosser by a very close 3 shots.
On the weekend A3 played Bright at home, having another good win overall.
George Peterson, Elaine Peterson, Chris Laws and Marian Ryan got up by 15 shots.
Mick Walsh, Ray Robinson, Don Cameron and Enid Smith won their rink 26 to 13 and Michael Harrison, Steve Lewis, Noel Jackson and Sid Revell won by 24 shots.
John Foots had a solid 30 to 11 win with his team of Peter Roberts, Shane O’Brien and Alan Dobson.
A4 travelled to Corowa and battled it out in the heat, snaring 2 rinks for the day.
Mark Bettany, Kevin Nikkelson, Nick Klein and Vicki Klein won by 6 shots a er a close tussle all day.
Ray Close, Winston Taylor, Carolyn Close and Ken Rainsbury won their rink by 5 shots.
Rick Nichols, Dizzy Tyers, Peter McNeill and Anne Tilbrook were defeated by 20 shots and Jenny Walsh, Lyn Holland, Irene Fuller and Yvonne Robinson went down 17 shots.
The men’s 100 up competition started on Sunday.
In the rst round Steve Lewis defeated John Lobbe, Mick Walsh defeated Denis Sharpe and Chris Laws accounted for Mingo. In the second round Chris Laws defeated Peter McNeill. Alan Dobson defeated Mick Walsh. Rick Nichols was defeated by Steve Lewis and Mark Bettany got up to Nikko. The nals will be held this Sunday. Armchair experts are welcome to come and cheer them on.
By DAMIAN GRUNDY
THERE was a small turn out for the rst Gravity night of 2025 on Tuesday 28 January.
It is possible that the heat of the day had discouraged some, however by 6pm the temperature was quite tolerable; certainly less severe than had been experienced a week earlier for the rst XC night.
But even with small numbers there is always a high level of competitiveness.
Lots of points to prove and many di erent battles between riders.
Two courses were set, with Cam Dobson and Adam Baker setting the rst course and yours truly arranging a second challenge.
Both courses were long by Ri e Butts standards.
As usual the riders started at 30 second intervals.
FISHING at Lake Eildon presents a variety of challenges, from submerged timber and rocky outcrops to strong currents and deep-water trolling.
To tackle these conditions effectively, anglers require the highest quality fishing line available - braided line.
The advanced manufacturing technologies used to create braided fishing lines provide superior strength, sensitivity, and durability, making them the preferred choice over monofilament for many serious anglers.
The Manufacturing Process of Premium Braided Fishing Line
The production of top-tier braid involves several key steps that contribute to its superior performance:
1. High-Modulus Polyethylene (HMPE) Fibers - The foundation of braided lines lies in advanced synthetic materials such as Dyneema® or Spectra®.
These fibers are ultra-strong,
For me, I was most happy to complete both runs without incident and I am glad that this seemed to be the case for all the competitors. Ryder proved once again that he is a talented rider across most racing disciplines.
He produced the fastest time on both courses and with a combined time of 9 minutes 46 seconds, he was 25 seconds faster than Damian Grundy with a combined time of 10 minutes 11 seconds.
Archie Smith was 2 seconds behind Damian and nished in 3rd. Results at www.mmbcc. org.au I would like to thank Cam and Adam for setting the course, and then Cam again and Tim Ross for managing the timing.
Hope to see you all at our next event.
with BEN DEEBLE
lightweight, and highly resistant to abrasion and UV degradation, making them perfect for fishing in rugged environments like Lake Eildon.
2. Multi-Strand Braiding Process - Unlike monofilament, which is a single extruded strand of nylon, braided line is woven from multiple fibers, typically in four, eight, or even sixteenstrand configurations.
The higher the strand count, the smoother and rounder the braid, which improves casting performance and reduces friction through rod guides.
3. Coating and FinishingPremium braided lines undergo a specialised coating process that enhances water resistance, colour retention, and abrasion resistance.
Some brands apply a fluoropolymer coating, which makes the line more hydrophobic and reduces drag when casting or retrieving.
4. Precision Weaving - Modern high-tech weaving machines use advanced tension control systems to ensure a tight, uniform weave.
This results in a braid with minimal stretch, providing extreme sensitivity that allows anglers to detect even the subtlest bites.
Why Braided Line is Superior to Monofilament at Lake Eildon
Zero Stretch for Maximum Sensitivity - Unlike monofilament, which can stretch significantly under tension, braid has virtually no stretch.
This allows anglers to feel every bump and nibble, even when fishing deep for species like yellow belly, Murray cod, and trout.
Superior Strength and Thinner Diameter - Braided
lines are much thinner than monofilament of the same strength.
A 20lb braid has the same diameter as a 6lb mono, allowing for greater spool capacity and longer casting distances, which is crucial when covering vast areas of Lake Eildon.
Durability and Longevity
- Monofilament weakens over time due to UV exposure and water absorption, while braided lines remain durable for years.
This makes braid a costeffective option for anglers who fish frequently.
Better Hook Sets - Since braid doesn’t stretch, it provides more solid hook-ups, especially when targeting deep-water fish where monofilament’s stretch could cause delayed reaction times.
For Lake Eildon’s demanding fishing conditions, a high-quality braided line is the best choice, ensuring anglers can land more fish with confidence.
By MARION MITCHELL
THE hot weather this week did not deter the ladies from their golf game.
Sharon Gysberts produced a lovely 20 points for Tuesday’s Stableford.
Pam Abbott followed with a very good 18 points then Glenis Skinner 17.
Lyn Poulson took the nearest the pin.
There were 32 ladies playing Wednesday’s Stableford.
The scores were very even with 18 countbacks needed to determine the placings.
Gayle Wells was very pleased to win A Grade with 37 points on a countback from Linda Terry 37.
Third was Sue Crow on 36.
B Grade was won by Lesley Anderson with 36, second Marion Sargeant 34 and third Glenis Skinner 33.
Lines balls were Linda Brook 33 on a countback to Anne Blampied on a countback to Sheryl Sargent, then Pam Abbott 32 on a countback to Shirley Nolan.
Nearest the pins were Anne Blampied, Jacki Smithwick, Kylie Egan and Shelly Comerford.
On Thursday Colleen Leeds had a great win with 23 points from Marion Foster 17.
On a very hot Saturday, 32 ladies played in the T. K. Millot Memorial Day 3 Person Ambrose.
The team of Sheryl Sargent, Linda Brook and Shelley Lakin won with a nett 63.
The next six places were only separated by mere decimal points with the team of Gayle Wells, Shirley Nolan and Kerri Nicol coming second with nett 68 narrowly from Kylie Egan, Lorraine Cullen and Tracey Gravenall.
Nearest the pins were Linda Brook, Lorraine Cullen, Shelly Lakin, Sheryl Sargent, Millie Cumming and Tracey Gravenall.
Finally, congratulations and Happy Birthday to Sue Parsons on celebrating one of ‘those’ birthdays.
Good hitting.
By MARK O’LOUGHLAN
FACING a decent total in the run chase, Delatite started solidly with Koby Middleton (16) and Max O’Loughlan (20) continuing their good form as an opening pair. A couple of quick wicket slowed things up a bit but skipper Nick Hoskin (33*) batted positively to build a 40 run partnership with O’Loughlan, giving the team a chance.
Will Benton also continued his good form with the bat, contributing an unbeaten 26.
Against the top side, things were always going to be di cult but the Delatite boys dug in again, valued their wicket, and gave it a good shake before eventually nishing the innings 89 runs o the total.
Only losing three wickets for the day shows the grit and the determination of the team, keep performing like that and the runs will come. Only two games to go for the rest of the season. Another win is just around the corner.
UNDER 16 RESULTS
Beechworth Wanderers 8/205 def by Rovers United Bruck 6/233.
Ovens Valley United 10/196 def Benalla Bushrangers 8/134.
Delatite 3/111 def by City Colts 7/200.
By ANDREW COOK
BOTH of Mans eld’s U12 teams hit the road early Saturday morning for away games.
Blue travelled to the now familiar Arundel Street Oval in Benalla to play Bushrangers Red, while Gold made the long trip up the freeway to Wangaratta to face Yarrawonga Mulwala Rams.
Unfortunately, neither team returned with the chocolates, but both teams showed they are continuing their growth journey and they remain focused on improvement.
Blue were sent in to bat rst by Bushrangers Red. Although they lost an early
wicket, they maintained a slow but steady accumulation of runs.
Billy Briggs continued his recent solid form with the bat, top scoring and retiring on nine, while the remaining top and middle order batters each spent a good amount of time in the middle while each showed grit and contributed to the score. Benalla were somewhat wayward in their bowling, this game being one of the rst in the season where our bowlers were tighter than our opposition’s. Unfortunately regular wickets did eventually put a brake on scoring and Blue nished their twenty overs on 6/73.
Blue’s bowlers then came roaring out of the blocks as Benalla took to the crease for their innings.
Alex Manning delivered our first diamond duck of the season, taking Benalla’s opening batsman with the very first ball of the innings.
Max Strong kept up the pressure only to bowl Benalla’s number three a few balls later, leaving them struggling at two for none.
Hudson Pickering and Bill Bourke constructed a stabilising partnership between them to ensure Benalla’s top order did not crumble.
The pressure reversed and wickets became hard to come by.
Benalla eventually passed
the target soon a er drinks, and continued on their merry way to an impressive total of 120.
Manning, however, did have the last laugh, taking two wickets with the last two balls of the innings.
Gold won the toss in Wangaratta and chose to send the Yarrawonga Mulwala Rams in.
Much like their Blue counterparts, the Golds also struck early, with Noah Heaysman claiming an opening batsman’s scalp in the rst over for a duck.
The Gold’s weren’t able to take advantage of the early breakthrough and the runs soon owed freely with the next three batters getting into double-digits.
While wickets were taken in the middle of the Rams’ innings, they continued scoring uently before nishing on 6/105.
Wickets were shared around evenly amongst Blue bowlers, with the best gures going to Xavier Heaysman with 1/7.
The Rams soon returned the favour with an earlyinnings wicket of their own when they struck with their rst ball.
Wickets subsequently fell in the second and third over.
The string of early wickets brought the brothers Heaysman to the crease.
Ordinarily openers, this week they gave up their positions to try their hand in the middle order and the move
almost motored the Golds to victory.
Noah Heaysman made a superb run-a-ball twenty including four boundaries while his brother Xavier was an able wingman at the other end, reaching eight before he lost his wicket. A handful of runs to the lower order interspersed with occasional wickets meant Gold’s innings nished in the eenth over, reaching 8 for 51. Gold and Blue will travel together next week to play alongside each other on the twin Arundel Street ovals on Saturday morning, taking on another set of Benalla and Yarrawonga Mulwala teams in the third-last round of the season.
By ROD SARGENT
AFTER a very busy holiday season the course is still seeing plenty of golfers playing.
It is great to see many new junior players out there as well.
We would also like to see some rain very soon to brighten the course up a bit too.
The eld sizes are very good as well with 40 players facing the starter on Tuesday for a round of stableford.
B grade winners on the day were, 3rd place Steven Shinns with 37pts, Chris Jetson 2nd with 38pts and Rob Healy 1st with 41pts.
A grade 3rd place was Rob Dundas with 36pts, Adrian Costantini 2nd with 36pts also and Shane O’Brien 1st with 38pts.
Thursday we had 78 players in the eld, alas three grades.
C grade 3rd place was Simon Young with 36pts, Glen Mackwell 2nd with 37pts and John McCombe 1st with 38pts.
B grade 3rd place was Bob Cullen with 36pts, Daryl Horwood 2nd with 38pts and Shane O’Brien 1st with 40pts.
A grade we had Dan Moloney 3rd with 35pts, 2nd was Craig Walsh with 36pts and 1st place went to Brendan Egan with 39pts.
That brings us to the big event for the week, the T.K.Millott Memorial 3 person ambrose.
This year is the rst time we are celebrating the life of one of our favourite members, Keith Millott.
The day was hosted by the Millott family and Greg ‘Bugsy’ Millott put in a lot time and e ort to make sure everyone had a great day.
The day was supported well by our great members, with a full eld of 108 Men and Women playing.
The men’s winners on the day in 3rd place, was the team of Kyle Bridgeman, Jack Clydesdale and Rod Sargent with nett 56.8.
2nd place went to Aaron Knight, Brad Grant and Steve Daykin with nett 55.5, just missing out on a countback.
Kyle Bridgeman won the 2nd shot NTP on the 6th hole also.
also going well with the rst round completed last Sunday.
By MARK O’LOUGHLAN
A HOT a ernoon in Yarrawonga saw a young and old Delatite team take on one of the top sides in the A Reserve competition.
With only one player between the age of 18 and 39, it was always going to be di cult for Delatite but the youth shone brightly in challenging conditions.
Nick Hoskin and Cooper Martin bowled beautifully with the new ball, each taking a wicket.
Charlie Watts and Max O’Loughlan were also able to snare one each as well.
The elding e ort by the team was excellent in oppressive conditions. Yarrawonga scored a few more runs than we would have liked, but it was a good e ort nonetheless.
The run chase started with a urry of wickets which is not what was needed in a big chase.
By ROHAN BERRIMAN
WHEN Merton’s cricketers travelled to the beautiful Benalla Rose Gardens to take on last year’s premiers, a well prepared turf wicket and quick outeld awaited them.
Merton won the toss and put themselves in to bat, making 104 all out in the 33rd over.
1st place went to the team of Tony Cooksey, Danny Robinson and Rennie De Maria also with a nett 55.5.
I would like to thank the Millott family for their ongoing support and commitment to the Mans eld golf club.
The inter club matchplay comps are
The 2nd round matches need to be nished by the 16th of February.
Feb 15 will be Monthly Medal, proudly sponsored by the Bonnie Doon caravan park. Happy hitting.
Luke Berriman’s 23 top scored in the top order with most batters getting a start but none going on to make a decent score.
At 9/73, Merton looked done until Noah Whittall played his best innings to date making 20 valuable runs with support from Rohan Berriman.
The pair put on 31 runs for the last
wicket giving the Merton bowlers something to bowl at.
Lee Pollard (4/14) and S. McLeod (3/18) gave the Merton batsmen limited opportunities to score.
Benalla, with the score slowly ticking along, looked in complete control from early on and Pollard led them to victory with an impressive 30 runs.
The home side passed Merton’s total in the 26th over, having lost 4 wickets.
Harry Craddock (2/16) was Merton’s the best bowler on the day with James Benton and Rohan Berriman the other wicket takers.
The task doesn’t get any easier for Merton when they take on the in form Milawa at Milawa next Saturday.
A 42 run partnership for the seventh wicket between Max O’Loughlan (14) and stand in skipper Nathan Goodes (52) stabilised things and a solid contribution of 17 by Keaton de Vent helped things along.
The boys dug in and were only dismissed in the nal over but the total was simply too big against a very able bowling line-up. It was a good e ort by the Delatite team in di cult conditions against a very good team, but will need to win a few games in the next couple of weeks to snag a nals berth.
By IAN CERVELO
A BEAUTIFUL warm summer evening greeted the riders at the start of the Howes Creek 25km handicap race on Thursday 30 January.
The line-up was reduced to 18 riders but enjoyed the welcome appearance of a new member, Simon Mulvihill.
A light south-easterly and a few undulating rises challenged most of the starters, giving some of the lighter-framed riders an equal footing with the broader riders who enjoyed downhill momentum.
In the above conditions, the pack rode in a bunch and rotated turns at the front.
A remarkable show of collaboration across the eld, each person took their turn at the front, allowing the others to tuck in behind the leads, who act as a windbreak, and enjoy a rolling rest.
Mr David Moore, the club handicapper, plays a critical part in this event.
In the run up, he spends endless hours planning, selecting and judging the previous form of each rider before determining how the riders are to be grouped.
O en we front him, in a good-humoured way, a er a couple of drinks at the Manseld Hotel.
The handicapper (please note, not an underworld crime boss) may get the sad story of “how come?”, “why me?”, “he should” etc.
With the race at the halfway mark and a tailwind pushing the riders home, the stronger groups worked together very effectively and gained on the rest of the eld.
Three kilometres from the nish and everyone was trying to gain the slightest of edges over their opponents.
In nding the gap and powering through the eld to sprint home, they reached breathtaking speeds of up to 60-70km/h.
The eventual winner on the night was Steve Curnow who was fresh o the back of the 700km Great Alpine Walk, he had just nished with his wife.
A former Mans eld identity came in in second place, the quick and clean shearer, Carl Simmons who now resides in Euroa.
Carl clocked the fastest time of 37 minutes and 55 seconds averaging a very credible 39.4 km/h!
Ian Conrick, fresh from a supposedly intense training camp at Club Med Phuket, took third place.
One unnamed spectator commented that Cornick’s side pro le made it look like he’d enjoyed a holiday at Club Pizza.
Back to the remaining riders and my new bestie, Mr Moore - the Archimedean* like mathematician, astronomer, inventor and the engineer of modern calculus - who applied these rules to 12 cyclists so that they all nished within a minute of each other.
Well done again, Mr Moore!
As usual, many thanks to our volunteers, the ever-present photographer Tony Copland, the ongoing support of The Brown Family and the welcoming sta at The Mans eld Hotel.
Newcomers and onlookers are always welcome at the club.
Please see the website MMBCC for further details or call into ATC Cycles, High St, Mans eld and ask any of the helpful sta .
Footnote: Archimedes died at the siege of Syracuse in 212 BC, aged 74, so you’ve got plenty of time le Dave!
• All tanks are 2.26m (7’6”) in height
TIGHTLY CONTESTED HANDICAP RACE SEES A CLOSE FINISH IN TOUGH CONDITIONS
• All tanks walls are 130mm (5.2”) thick
• All foundations (tank floors) are 250mm (9.8”) thick
