Mansfield Courier 060324

COUNCIL SELLING RESERVES

POLICE WATCH

By TRINITY KNIGHT and LYNN ELDER

SUPERSTAR netballer

Mia Tanner won the Sportsperson of the Year award at last week’s presentation night at the Mansfield Golf Club.

The festivities were attended by approximately 140 people, with excitement building as the evenings proceedings got underway.

Following an introduction from Rotary’s Maurie Walsh,

who’s spearheaded the organisation of the event for many years now, nominees from 2023 were presented by the entertaining MC Craig Willis. The task of selecting winners for this year’s awards would have clearly posed a challenge, with a room full of deserving contenders.

A variety of sports were celebrated differing by age, gender and ability, however each sportsperson had

one thing in common; the spirit and connection of community sport.

Bike riders were represented, with MTB junior Ben Ross and hard enduro MTB Harry McFarlane nominated.

“I compete all around Victoria, Mt Buller, Falls Creek, and Thredbo (NSW),” said Ben.

“I train around Mt Buller and Rifle Butts, on my own or with my brother and Dad.”

“I have a few favourite

spots, such as the Strathbogies, and I have an enduro track at my place,” said Harry.

“There are five rounds of the Victorian hard enduro MTB; I won three of them and 80 points ahead of the nearest rival.”

Tennis and golf were represented by Dan Robertson and Rod Sargent.

Among the footballers nominated were seniors Luke Murray from Bonnie Doon Football Club and

Ben Christopher from the Mansfield Eagles.

Sophia Hill received a nomination for her success in national and international equestrian events and John Foots’ achievements in lawn bowls earned him a nomination.

Best dressed Connor

Gibney-Schelfhout won Junior Sportsperson of the Year for his accomplishments in archery.

“I liked watching shows with

Robin Hood,” Connor said. MC Willis then broke into song about the man in green riding through the forest. Willis asked how much for a good bow.

“A lot, $2000 to $3000 and you can design the fins,” said Connor.

Leonie Berry took home the Club Person and Administrator of the Year award for her

Eagles Netball Club.

■ Continued page 5

Work begins on High Street carpark

COUNCIL has announced that construction works are planned to commence on the High Street carpark on March 12.

The site at 34 High Street, Mansfield has been in use as a temporary gravel carpark from late 2022 after council acquired the land.

When completed the carpark will include 84 marked parking spaces, a fully sealed surface, in-ground drainage, landscaping and solar lighting.

Council said two spaces will be allocated for disability parking and conduits will be installed to provide for the future installation of an electric vehicle charger.

An expression of interest process will be conducted to find a provider for the EV charger in the coming months.

Council purchased the former Caltex service station site in 2022 for the price of $1.3m.

Following community feedback on the carpark access and design, council acquired a laneway to provide both pedestrian and vehicle access to Collopy Street, with aims of providing better traffic flow.

“We’ve asked what parking options work well for users, and council has listened and finalised the design of the carpark to meet these needs,” said Mayor Cr Steve Rabie.

“Congested parking in the main street has been a longstanding frustration for our community, and on completion of the carpark new signage will be installed to make it easier to find, so that everyone can enjoy shopping, leisure and other activities in Mansfield.”

Haines shines a light on pork barelling

INDEPENDENT Federal Member for Indi, Dr. Helen Haines, has brought forward a Private Members’ Bill to Parliament, aiming to overhaul the management of Commonwealth funding.

The proposed legislation, known as the Accountability of Grants, Investment Mandates, and Use of Public Resources Amendment (End Pork Barrelling) Bill 2024, seeks to tackle the issue of ‘pork barrelling’ by strengthening oversight of government spending on grant programs.

According to Dr. Haines, pork barrelling involves directing government funds to projects in marginal electorates solely to secure votes, regardless of the project’s merit.

“Taxpayer money should be spent on the needs of communities not the wants of the major parties,” Dr Haines said.

“Sunlight is the best disinfectant, and by forcing ministers to front up and explain themselves if they go against official advice,

we are less likely to see dodgy decisions made on the eve of elections to win votes.”

Developed in collaboration with the Centre for Public Integrity, the bill aims to introduce transparent selection criteria for all grants programs, implement robust reporting mechanisms for greater parliamentary accountability, and establish a parliamentary committee tasked with monitoring grant administration and compliance with guidelines.

Dr. Haines explained that the bill would require ministers to report to parliament when they allocate funds to their own electorates or disregard departmental advice in awarding grants.

“Funding decisions should be evidence-based, with grants awarded on merit and need,” she said.

“At election time, the major parties use taxpayer money to shore up votes in marginal seats.

“Rorting grants programs

wastes money and destroys public trust in government processes.

“At its best, pork barrelling is maladministration, at its worst its corruption.”

“The solutions I have put forward in this bill are practical reporting measures that ensure that the parliament, and the public, know how funding decisions are made, and why grants are awarded.”

Instances of pork barrelling, such as the Sports Rorts and the Commuter Car Park Rorts, have underscored the urgent need for reform, Dr. Haines emphasised.

“Pork barrelling is happening right now during the Dunkley by-election, and before long the Government and the opposition will be campaigning for the next federal election,” she said.

“We need these two simple and reasonable reforms now to help rebuild public trust in government spending and to ensure public money is invested wisely and effectively.”

Echoing Dr. Haines’ concerns, Dr. Catherine Williams, Executive Director of the Centre for Public Integrity, highlighted the significant impact of misusing public funds on Australian communities.

“When there are so many unmet areas of need in our community, the misuse of public money is a problem Australia simply can’t afford,” Dr Williams said.

Dr. Haines announced plans to host an interactive community forum in Wodonga.

The event will facilitate discussions on the prevalence of pork barrelling and its implications for public trust and government accountability.

The interactive community forum will be held at The Cube in Wodonga from 7pm on Wednesday 6 March 2024.

The event will also be live streamed.

To register to attend in person or online go to www.helenhaines.org/end-pork-barrellinginteractive-community-forum.

IT’S A RORT: Member for Indi, Dr. Helen Haines, said taxpayer money should be spent on the needs of communities not the wants of the major parties.

PHOTO: Supplied

Council to sell portions of four road reserves

By SHAUN MCMAHON

AT its most recent meeting, Mansfield Shire Council approved a motion to commence work on the discontinuance and sale of portions of four road reserves.

The executive summary outlined that council had received requests from adjoining landowners concerning road reserves at various locations, including Macs Cove and Bonnie Doon.

These include:

 A portion of road reserve at the corner of Valley Fair Rise and Village Way, Macs Cove

 A section of road reserve on Peppin Drive, Bonnie Doon

 A road reserve at the corner of Hutchinsons Road and Nanda Court, Bonnie Doon

 A road reserve adjacent to Jamieson Primary School, off Chenery Street

Council said that these areas, although designated as road reserves, are currently or should be under the ownership of council.

However, further investigation is required to confirm ownership, especially in cases where there may be confusion due to historical subdivision processes.

Council said the proposed discontinuance process would involve engaging with property owners, government departments, and the broader community to fulfill all obligations under relevant legislation.

Additionally, conditions for sale include potential consolidation of land into one title and agreements to prevent subdivision.

Given the varying circumstances of each location, council said they will seek independ-

ent valuations for any land to be sold and explore all options, particularly for larger sites like the one adjacent to Jamieson Primary School.

In response to queries raised by councillors at the meeting about process, GM Infrastructure and Planning, Melissa Crane, said negotiations with adjoining landowners will vary depending on the context of each property.

“The situation in Jamieson is unique, as it does not involve a sale but rather the land becom-

ing vested in the Department of Education, with council still involved in the process,” she said.

“Regarding the sale method, whether through open market or otherwise, it depends on the context.

“For example, in the case of Valley Fair and Village Way, where the land is not separable and consists of 225 sqm, the reality is that only the adjoining landowner could benefit.

“An assessment will be conducted on how the land can be

utilised, independently or as an adjoining lot.”

The matter will then return to council for a further decision.

Deputy Mayor Cr Mark Holcombe congratulated council officers on this work.

“Well done to your team; this is just an another exercise in cleaning the house, making sure that any assets that are underutilised or unused are dispersed of,” he said.

“I support this motion and well done on pulling this together.”

5775

We’re want to make a tangible difference for some local young women as part of 2024 IWD. We’re committing to subsidising the fees for 3 young people to attend Mittagundi - an amazing outdoor education leadership camp in NE Victoria. MANY of our staff across both of our businesses have attended these camps, learning about themselves, leadership and life in general. We want to enable more young women to attend so that they can come back to our community with new skills and experiences. How?

Throw some coins (or notes - we’re not fussy) into our donation box before Fri 8th

Come in for lunch on Fri 8th and all drinks proceeds will be donated to the cause (to a maximum of $1000)

Count Her In

Invest in Women

Accelerate Progress

LONG WEEKEND

Guaranteed to be a busy one –with plenty to do in town and the weather still working in our favour. Get ahead of the crowd and book!

Lunch or dinner – we’d love to guarantee your table so please call

5775 2004

PS – Our Mini Golf is open every day over the long weekend (including Monday).

10am – 4pm

MANSFIELD

RESERVE 4: Peppin Drive, Bonnie Doon.

RESERVE 3: Corner of Valley Fair Rise and Village Way, Macs Cove.

RESERVE 2: Corner of Hutchinsons Rd and Nanda Ct, Bonnie Doon.

RESERVE 1: Adjacent to Jamieson Primary School off Chenery St, Jamieson.

WEDNESDAY: Cloudy

Temperature: 15 – 29

THURSDAY: Sunny

Temperature: 14 – 30

FRIDAY: Sunny

Temperature: 14 – 30

SATURDAY: Sunny

Temperature: 16 – 32

SUNDAY: Cloudy

Temperature: 20 – 28

MONDAY: Cloudy

Temperature: 19 – 31

TUESDAY: Cloudy

Temperature: 16 – 25

Police out in force over upcoming long weekend

TAKING a look at what crimes and incidents have occurred around the Mansfield Shire during February with Mansfield station’s SENIOR SERGEANT

STEVE CARDEN

THERE have been two thefts in Mansfield during February and Mansfield Police would like assistance to recover the stolen items and apprehend the offenders.

“There has been a theft of a motor vehicle from Stoneleigh Rd, a white Ford Falcon 2016 model valued at $36,000 on February 24 and we ask anyone with information to contact Mansfield Police,” said Snr Sgt Carden.

“The other theft occurred on February 21 when a black Apollo mountain bike was stolen from a home in Somerset Crescent, estimated value $500.

Water Temp: 12.6 degrees

“Once again any if anyone can assist please contact the local police station.”

Road safety is another concern for police with several incidents occurring during February.

“In this last month in our area of response there have been nine collisions, five of them with serious injuries and only one of them involved another vehicle,” Snr Sgt Carden said.

“They included motorcyclists

falling off and vehicles running off the road into fixed objects.”

“Motorists are urged to pay attention to the road conditions and to drive to their abilities.

“These collisions occurred on secondary rural and gravel roads within the local area.”

Sgt Carden said with the Labour Day weekend approaching there will be a high police presence across the three days as part of Operation Arid with all units which includes highway patrol, uniform, unmarked cars and state resources.

Victoria Police is focusing on keeping vulnerable road users safe and those who are drink and drug impaired off the roads this long weekend.

“Our aim to ensure everyone gets to their destination and enjoy our beautiful area and gets back home safely,” said Snr Sgt Carden.

“What would make me really

happy are minimal offences; it’s not about handing out infringement notices, the aim is to eliminate road trauma.

“During the long weekend Victoria Police are working with DEECA (Department of Energy, Environment & Climate Change) and Parks Victoria.”

Another important message Snr Sgt Carden wanted to remind people of is vigilance during the fire period which is currently in place.

“You light it, you own it,” he said.

Following the recent police raid on a Mansfield tobacco shop, Snr Sgt Carden said the investigation was ongoing.

“Anyone who purchases illicit tobacco is supporting crime,” he said and urged anyone who has any information of any illicit tobacco sales or activity to directly contact Crime Stoppers.

New recycled water storage for Mansfield

CONSTRUCTION is underway on a new 250 megalitre storage lagoon at Goulburn Valley Water’s Mansfield Wastewater Management Facility, designed to boost capacity to support the region’s growing population.

The project will almost double the facility’s fully treated wastewater winter storage volume and will complement the existing 225ML storage on the site’s western corner.

Current storages are nearing capacity, driven by significant growth in Mansfield which has resulted in increased volumes of wastewater being treated and stored at the wastewater management facility.

Goulburn Valley Water Managing Director Steve Capewell said

WORKS COMMENCE: A new major storage lagoon is under construction at Mansfield’s Wastewater Management Facility.

the new lagoon would help meet the future needs of one of GVW’s major growth corridor regions.

“Mansfield is one of our fastest growing communities and we’re seeing increasing demand on our water and wastewater services, much earlier than forecast planning had indicated,” Dr Capewell said.

“This upgrade is part of our plans to grow and improve our infrastructure in Mansfield to ensure we can continue to deliver reliable services while also planning for and managing current and future growth.”

The project is expected to be completed in spring.

During construction, residents may notice an increase in traffic and heavy vehicles accessing the site from the Maroondah Highway and traffic management may be in place at times.

Increasing recycled water storage in Mansfield is one of the priority actions in GVW’s 2022 Urban Water Strategy, a 50-year plan designed to help sustainably manage the region’s water resources.

The additional storage will boost the availability of recycled water to be used for irrigation as part of GVW’s onsite farming operations as well as for irrigation supply to the Mansfield Golf Club and nearby farming operations.

It will also complement the recently constructed purple recycled water standpipe, which is designed to increase the use of alternate water sources and reduce dependency on drinking water supplies

The new lagoon will reduce the need for wet weather-related emergency recycled water releases into nearby waterways, which have occurred in past years.

To follow the project’s progress, go to gvwater.vic.gov.au/ projects/current-projects

Tanner nets top honours

■ From page 1

Eight year-old Zac Salmon, a clear crowd favourite, received the Encouragement Award for dirt bike riding.

He was a hoot as he stood up on a chair entertaining the crowd.

Willis asked Zac how he started in the sport.

“My dad started racing motor cross when I was little, I did a bit of competing and it ended up being fun,” said Zac.

Bonnie Doon Football Club took out the Team of the Year award after a momentous and redeeming win at the grand final following their loss in 2022.

Mia Tanner expressed her gratitude to friends, family and club members who helped her along the way.

“Bonnie Doon is one of the best clubs I have ever played with,” Mia said.

“I also thank my mum who is head netball coach at Bonnie Doon; this (award) should just go to her.”

The evening concluded with Rotarian Maurie Walsh rounding out proceedings with a thank you to all of the sponsors, nominees and winners.

talking with MC Craig Willis.

Delatite Valley Association seeks community input

ESTABLISHED in December 2023, the Delatite Valley Association has been actively working on presenting proposed association purposes and membership framework to the community.

President Mary Dunn, leading the efforts, said there was a need for broader community engagement to establish these aspects.

“We want to get as many people involved as possible to talk about the valley and what’s important to them,” she said.

The association aims to collaborate and represent community interests in various matters, including planning, development, environmental, agricultural, and heritage concerns.

Additionally, it seeks to promote cultural awareness and secure funding opportunities.

The proposed membership framework includes criteria such as ratepayer status, residency, and an annual fee of $20.

Residents are urged to share their opinions on the proposed purposes and membership criteria before the planned AGM, scheduled to follow receipt of community feedback, which is due by Friday March 22, 2024.

Interested individuals can visit the association’s website www.delatitevalleyassociation.org.au for more information or email their comments to delatitevalleyassociation@gmail.com.

“The association values community input and seeks to ensure inclusive representation in its decision-making processes,” said Ms Dunn.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Future planning?

SMALL block approvals do nothing for home affordability in Mansfield.

They are however just dandy for council coffers, Airbnbs, and retirees.

Existing home-owners, green space and trees - why these are such pesky things aren’t they?

Although not in every small town.

Some small towns do their utmost to preserve character, beauty, and nature for the future.

It is time for government to step up with some plans for assisted accommodation and thoughtful regional development.

Or down the track, who is going to wash your baby’s face or nurse your grandparents?

Carol Lowden, Mansfield

A heated pool for Mansfield?

VERY interesting article in Courier (21/2/2024) re: establishment of Mansfield’s

ACTIVE: Delatite Valley Association is seeking input from the community.

outdoor swimming pool.

Residents efforts to establish the pool were a great achievement.

A dedicated new group of residents have tried for many years to establish a year around indoor heated pool with no success.

The advantages of a heated pool for all age groups are obvious.

This is a massive undertaking and should be given consideration for the future.

Mary Parker, Mansfield

Animal seizures and surrenders increasing

THE RSPCA Victoria’s Inspectorate in the north-east region has witnessed a concerning trend as the number of animals seized or surrendered continues to rise for the sixth consecutive year.

Michelle Green, Team Leader for RSPCA Victoria’s Inspectorate northeast region, shed light on the situation, emphasising the challenges faced by both animals and their owners in the midst of economic pressures.

“Out on the road, we’re seeing firsthand how the cost-of-living crisis is impacting pet owners,” she said.

“We frequently encounter underweight animals who don’t have enough food and increasingly poor living conditions – due, in part, to situations with far too many animals from either overbreeding or hoarding, with owners unable to provide even basic care.”

“We’re also seeing people unable to provide crucial veterinary care and basic preventative medicines like flea and worming treatments, impacting animal welfare.”

In the past six months alone, the north-east region received 1040 reports and tip-offs about animal cruelty, leading to the seizure or surrender of 228 animals into RSPCA Victoria’s care.

The financial toll of caring for these animals is estimated to be at least $471,000, underscoring the strain on resources faced by the organisation.

Ms Green expressed concerns that the total number of animals en-

tering their care this financial year is on track to match the previous year’s figure of 429.

“As we enter what is historically the busiest time of year, we urge everyone in the North-East to remain vigilant for animal cruelty in our area and to report it to RSPCA Victoria,” she said.

Animal cruelty reports can be made either by calling (03) 9224 2222 or submitting reports online at www.rspcavic.org/cruelty-report.

Ms Green also acknowledged the ongoing efforts of RSPCA Inspectors to ensure the welfare of animals across the state.

“At the end of the day, RSPCA Inspectors are here to ensure the welfare of animals throughout Victoria and we’ll continue to work with people to provide appropriate care for their animals,” she said.

To learn more about RSPCA Victoria’s Inspectorate and how to support their efforts, visit their website.

ZONINGLAWSUPROAR:

Way Back Wednesday - a look back at what was making news 20 years ago this week.

MANSFIELD residents are being urged to sign a petition calling for ‘common sense’ in the face of rural planning changes by the state government.

The proposed new rural planning zones have led to an uproar of opinions from people opposed to the move.

ar pe se pl go pl an pe go

ZONING LAWS UPROAR: Mansfield residents are opposed to the proposal of new rural planning zones with concerns that it will be a disincentive for young farmers and cause financial disadvantage. re b a w 2 in ju t s fi tw w

SHOOTING FOR THE TOP:

Michelle Beecham competed in the Olympic trials at Sydney just missing and has an amazing experience.

While in support of the government’s motives for creating the zones, Mansfield Shire mayor Don Cummins said the proposed changes were simply another example of “city people” making decisions for those in the country.

IN sport, former Mansfield resident Michelle Beecham began shooting two years ago, not in her wildest dreams would she have imagined by 2004 she would be competing in Olympic trials at Sydney.

The 25 year old wasn’t just there to go through the motions either, placing sixth in competition on the first day and second in day two and although Beecham wasn’t eligible to be selected for the 2004 Athens Olympic Games, the taste of top class action has given her a thirst for more.

CONCERNING: RSPCA Victoria’s north-east Inspectorate has witnessed a concerning uptick in seized or surrendered animals. PHOTO: Supplied

Chenery St roundabout gets a facelift

COUNCIL has announced that the Chenery St roundabout is about to have a facelift with beautification works beginning on March 12, 2024.

The works follow similar on the Chenery-High St roundabout and the Malcolm-Highett St roundabout.

Council said the design, reflecting the community’s request for more greenery during consultation last year, represents five leaves.

The flat sculptures consist of timber stems with a rustfinish edging and will be topped with a loose granite

surface in alternating colours.

The leaves will be arranged around a tiered central rock bed with small ground-cover plants included.

Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said he was pleased to see works begin.

“This has been a great example of council working with the community,” said Cr Rabie.

“Our parks and gardens team completed the designs in a way that is cost-effective and easy to maintain, while being visually appealing.

“We then asked the com-

munity for feedback and altered our plans to include what the community wanted.”

Works are scheduled to take place from March 12 to 22, 2024.

Council said they are running simultaneous drainage works to minimise traffic disruption.

Traffic management will be in place on Chenery Street between 7am and 5pm during works.

For any enquiries, contact council at capitalworks@ mansfield.vic.gov.au or on (03) 5775 8555.

News mansfield

The upcoming scheduled Council meeting is Tuesday 19 March 2024 at 5pm and will be held both online and in person at the Council Chambers, 33 Highett Street, Mansfield. Go to the events section on our website for more information about how to observe the meeting or contact Customer Service on 5775 8555.

Customer Service Hours

Council's municipal office at 33 Highett Street, Mansfield, is open 8.30am-4.30pm, Monday to Friday, except public holidays.

Bon Crescent Lawn Irrigation Works Complete

Installation of the new lawn irrigation system for the Bon Crescent area was completed on 20 February as part of the Bonnie Doon Streetscape Project.

Community feedback in 2023 indicated that the irrigation system was a high priority for the community among various proposed upgrades. The system covers the eastern end of the lawn, including the war memorial area, keeping it green throughout the year.

With the recent stormy conditions residents are encouraged to clean leaves from roof line and gutters and remove fallen vegetation to manage fuel loads during the CFA declared fire danger period. Visit cfa.vic.gov.au/can for further information

Work With Us

Council currently has the following employment opportunities available.

For full details visit Council's website mansfield.vic.gov.au

Maternal & Child Health Nurse Information Technology Officer

Monkey Gully Rd Shared Path Construction

Works to construct a new gravel shared path on Monkey Gully Rd are scheduled to start on Monday 11 March and are anticipated to take 7 weeks to complete. The path will run along the eastern side of the road, providing a connection between Highett Street and Highton Lane separated from road traffic. It includes concrete sections near Farral Court and in front of the DEECA depot.

Chenery Street Roundabout Works

Works on the Chenery Street roundabout are scheduled to take place from 12 to 22 March 2024. Council will also complete drainage maintenance works needed nearby at the same time to reduce potential disruption. Traffic management will be in place between 7am and 5pm during works. Pedestrians and drivers are advised to take care and follow any signage when in the area. Access to premises will be maintained.

Piries-Goughs Bay Road Speed Reduction

The speed limit along a section of PiriesGoughs Bay Road has been reduced to 80km/h. The decision was made following community consultation in 2023. Residents highlighted safety concerns about various users sharing the road, property access and increased traffic in a high-speed zone. To view which area has been effected by the reduction and to read more visit

Request for Tender - Cleaning Services of Council Assets

Council invites suitably qualified and experienced contractors to submit a tender for the Cleaning Services contract on Council assets in Mansfield Shire Council offices, public buildings and public amenities throughout the Shire. Request for Tender documents and submissions may be downloaded and submitted at portal.tenderlink.com/mansfield. Request for Tender closes at 12pm on Wednesday 27 March 2024.

High Street Car Park Works

Construction will begin on the High Street carpark from 12 March 2024. The works are anticipated to take approximately 9 weeks and will be completed by Alpine Civil. During this time, the carpark will be closed and traffic management will be in place from 7am to 5pm. Pedestrians and drivers are advised to take care and follow any signage when in the area. Access to premises will be maintained throughout construction.

FACELIFT: Council said the new design for the Chenery St roundabout represents five leaves and reflects the community’s feedback.

PHOTO: Engage Mansfield

Group launched to address social isolation

By LYNN ELDER

FOLLOWING on from a call out for expressions of interest from community members last year, Mansfield Shire Council launched the 16-member Social Inclusion Action Group (SIAG) on Wednesday February 21.

The take home message from the launch was the importance of a feeling of belonging for good mental health and being able to provide that support.

The Mansfield group is among the first five of 79 local government areas to be rolled out across the state following findings from the Royal Commission into Victoria’s mental health system.

Present at the launch was the shire’s CEO Kirsten Alexander, Mayor Cr Steve

Rabie and Cr James Tehan.

The gathering also heard from the state government’s mental health and wellbeing promotion advisor, Monica Kelly.

“The most important thing is we have a chance to talk and connect,” Ms Kelly said.

“One in three people in Victoria feel loneliness, which can lead to long-term damaging mental health.

“Listen to all aspects of the community and include more people in our communities.

“Think about the community you want to be in the future.

“It is rare that this is not a project; this is ongoing funding, which will evolve and shape the wellbeing needs of people as they

MANSFIELD ADULT COMMUNITY EDUCATION (MACE) CALLS FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST FOR BOARD POSITIONS

change over the years.”

The Mansfield group consists of 12 individuals and four community organisations representing the diversity of the shire.

Community member Rev Mel Clark was the spokesperson for the Mansfield SIAG.

“Wanting to feel a sense of belonging is a natural instinct, but it is not always easy to gain these feelings of belonging,” Rev Clark said.

“People flourish when they feel like they belong.

“Each person (in the group) has unique perspectives, each with love for community, and each of us wants to see the best for our shire.”

The focus of the Mansfield SIAG will be on improving the community’s mental health and wellbeing, especially people most likely to be socially isolated, by promoting, supporting, and

funding new and existing social inclusion initiatives.

This new initiative takes in seven outlying areas and has representatives from those areas on the group.

Representatives were drawn from local organisations and services involved in the mental health and wellbeing in the shire.

They will also manage a Local Social Inclusion Investment Fund to support community initiatives that

foster local community participation, inclusion and connection.

The group has the task of identifying local needs, existing initiatives and gaps relating to social connection and social inclusion within the shire.

Council’s Social Inclusion Action Group Coordinator, Allison O’Keefe, can be contacted for further information on 0483 033 164 or siag@ mansfield.vic.gov.au.

MACE is a community-owned and managed incorporated association encompassing a ‘Learn Local Education’ provider; an Early Childhood Education and Care centre; a ‘Neighbourhood House’; and a Services Australia Agent.

MACE

MACE offers nationally-recognised, accredited courses to the local community through partnerships with other continuing education providers.

MACE is now seeking suitably qualified and experienced candidates for appointment to its Board.

Potential candidates with the following skills or expertise are required to complement the existing Board:

Adult education programs or policy

Current Vocation & Education Training (VET) knowledge

Family &/or children services

Risk Management

Legal Information Technology

The Board of MACE meets monthly in Mansfield and successful candidates will be expected to attend these meetings and participate in relevant subcommittee meetings.

MACE promotes and encourages diversity and inclusion in the workplace and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

If you have a strong interest in community involvement, please submit your written application, which will include a current CV and letter detailing experience to the President MACE Inc, 145 High Street, Mansfield VIC 3722 or via email to the Chief Executive Officer of MACE ceo@mace.vic.edu.au Applications will be received up to COB 22nd March 2024.

Further information regarding these positions can be obtained by contacting the President of MACE via 5775 2077.

CONNECTIONS: (From left) The newly launched Social Inclusion Action Group members Miranda Connaughton, Sujita Sharma, Sandra Lording, Warren Coad, Brendan Eyssens, Rev Mel Clark, Paul Allen, Bonnie Clarke, Caitlyn Moscrop, Bianca Hurle and group coordinator Allison O’Keefe. Absent: Rosie Vinton, Serenity Hill, Marnie Gray and Daniel Carter.

PHOTO: Lynn Elder

Local event promotes advance care planning awareness

ROSEHAVEN is hosting an event during National Advance Care Planning week (18 – 24 March 2024) aiming to help the local community understand the importance of advance care planning.

The event is being held on Wednesday March 20 at the Delatite Hotel at 1pm.

It’s an annual event that aims to improve Mansfield Shire’s death literacy, educate people about the importance of advance care planning, and how that can improve end of life outcomes.

At the function guest panellists will discuss their role in advance care planning and the importance of having a plan in place, and community members will be encouraged to ask questions on the topic.

“We want to support the conversation and help people prepare for a time when they may be too unwell to speak and make health care decisions for themselves,” said Rosehaven manager, Bianca Hurle.

“Advance care planning gives you a voice, so your health care remains your choice and your decisions are not overlooked.”

According to the Primary Health Network, only 15 per cent of Australians have documented their preferences in an advance care directive, despite the fact that over 50 per cent of people will be too unwell to make their own end-of-life decisions.

Lesley Habel, National Manager for Advance Care Planning Australia, praised

the Mansfield community for getting behind the initiative.

“We hope that this event inspires the people of Mansfield to have a voice and ensure their wishes and preferences for future health care are known,” she said.

“While you still have decision-making capacity, have a heart-to-heart conversation with those closest to you and speak with your GP, local hospital or consider documenting the conversation.”

Tickets are available at Trybooking - https://www. trybooking.com/events/ landing/1170462.

Entry cost is a gold coin donation.

Visit www.acpweek.org. au for more information and to access a free starter pack.

ANNUAL

The March 20 event aims to improve Mansfield Shire’s understanding of advance care planning. PHOTO:

Golf day raises over $40,000

MANSFIELD Hospital

Auxiliary held another successful annual golf day on Sunday February 25.

The event once again raised over $40,000 and this year the funds will be targeted to provide more essential (and costly) radiology equipment to support the ultrasound machine which was purchased with last year’s golf day proceeds.

“This will assist the hos-

pital to continue the level of care it delivers to both the local community and the increasing number of tourists to the Mansfield district,” said Auxiliary Val Doyle.

The “weather gods” were smiling and a large field hitoff with 44 teams and 132 players.

As usual, the big incentive for everyone was the chance to win a car on the 3rd hole,

courtesy of Mansfield Motor Group which was once again a major sponsor.

For Kyle Bridgeman, the third hole was his nemesis, missing the hole-in-one and the car by 2.5 centimetres.

Commiserations to Kyle.

Maybe the car will go off next year.

Another added incentive was the chance to win the $1500 putting competition.

BANK CLOSING FOR RENOVATIONS

BENDIGO Bank - Community Bank Mansfield & District Branch will undergo renovations to improve services, closing temporarily from March 14, 2024, at 1:00pm, and reopening on March 25, 2024, at 9:30am.

Brand Manger Ryan Daykin said the team at the bank are passionate about the space where they serve their customers.

“We hope these exiting changes will assure our customers new and old, that we’re planning on sticking around,” he said.

“We welcome the opportunity to chat to anyone about the benefits of community bankingnot only for them but also for the community.”

A celebration of the bank’s reopening will be on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, from 4:30pm to

5:30pm, and community members are invited to come and see the changes and join the team for a celebratory drink and canapés. Alternative banking options are available during the closure, including Bank@Post services at Australia Post Mansfield. For more information please contact Bendigo BankCommunity Bank Mansfield & District at mansfieldmailbox@ bendigoadleaide.com.au or call the branch on 5775 3273 or Bendigo head office on 1300 236 344.

EXCITED: The bank’s team are getting ready for all the excitement. Pictured (from left) Issy Tirtowalujo, Lizzie Villestas, Jess Fearon-Brown, Josh Anstee, Ryan Daykin and Clare Ridler.

AND THE WINNER IS OUR LOCAL HOSPITAL!

The “unlucky winner” was Shirley Nolan who narrowly missed the hole but settled for a cash consolation.

Celebrations continued with an excellent dinner and the auctions and awards program was compered by our good friend and great Auxiliary supporter, the amusing Craig Willis.

We are always grateful to have him on board each year.

Congratulations to all the teams who competed.

The main winners were as follows:

Overall champions: Daryl Horwood, Tess Horwood, Kyle Bridgeman

Men’s winners: Tony Cooksey, Ross Brown, Mark Jones

Ladies’ winners: Robyn Baker, Sam Bailey, Kylie Egan

Mixed winners: Nola Jens-

en, Jason Moran, Cameron McMahen Veterans (mixed): Sue Crow, Colin Whytcross, Ross North Veterans (men): Ian Jones, Don Clutterbuck, Ces McIntosh

Veterans (ladies): Lyn Poulson, Lorraine Wilson, Susan Kinloch

Family: Shane Cumming, Ryan Cumming, Hayden Cumming

Youth Fest grants open until March 15

Marion Mitchell

Susan Kinloch

Françoise Fleurus

Sue Parsons

Ann Mudge

Ann Blampied

Marg Franke-Williams

Val Doyle

Thanks to all the Auxiliary members and partners who worked hard on the day

YOUNG people in northern Victoria have the opportunity to showcase their talents and creativity through the Youth Fest grants program. Grants of $2000 are now open for sector organisations, local government, and schools to partner with youth aged 12 to 25 in creating diverse events.

Member for Northern Victoria, Jaclyn Symes, encouraged applications.

“The Youth Fest grants empower young Victorians to organise events, share ideas, and build connections,” she said.

The festival, scheduled for September, aims to provide a

platform for young people to showcase their skills and engage with their communities.

In 2023, the program funded 111 activities ranging from art to sports and community festivals.

For more information visit www.vic.gov.au/youth-festgrants.

Count shares Count passion for passion for history in in Jamieson

By CARMEL DIXON

COUNT Rudi Paoletti has a passion for historical places and the restoration and protection of the country between Walhalla and Jamieson.

Remembering the forgotten historic places in the High Country and the history of the mining days, Rudi has worked hard to create maps of this fabulous country we live in.

Restoring cemeteries throughout the Walhalla to Woods Point area, including Enoch’s Point, Red Jacket, Jericho, Happy go Lucky, and Cooper’s Creek, Rudi and his team of volunteers from WG Inc. have worked tirelessly to restore, repair and conserve for future generations.

One week ago, Rudi with his team and local Jamieson and Howqua residents, replaced the 29 historic places

of interest signs in Jamieson.

Each new sign is mounted on a metal post along the Jamieson and District Historic Walk, with comprehensive information on each.

Many visitors and local residents regularly enjoy this walk and now they have fabulous new signs to enjoy as well.

Count Rudi Paoletti was born in Melbourne and lived in Williamstown during his youth, and he now resides in Langwarrin.

Rudi’s passion was realised 1994, when he created the ghost maps from Walhalla to Jamieson, as well as reprinting old books, igniting his passion to protect the area.

He then began to publish his own books, with over 20 produced so far.

WG Inc. has more than 150 signs erected in an area covering 300Kms, which

is all part of the Aberfeldy track historic touring route, one of the largest European historic touring routes in the southern hemisphere.

Rudi registered West Gippsland relic, mining and heritage protection Inc. in 2009 and it now has a membership of over 150 members.

He is supported by DEECA, Melbourne Water, Destination Gippsland, Heritage Victoria, Parks Victoria, Baw Baw Shire and Mansfield Shire for his heritage work and conservation.

Rudi has found the support and enthusiasm from the local residents refreshing.

When placing signs there are specialists who know how to pour concrete, others know how deep the hole should be.

Rudi said the love of historical places and the restoration of land sites, clearing scrub and obstacles from the tracks, makes the experi-

ence for the traveller more environmentally attractive. He is working on new books, giving an illustrated presence to conservation and creating a new generation of historians and eager trippers, traveling to previously difficult areas to traverse and sometimes even find.

Supporting North East councils to prevent family violence

COUNCILS across Victoria will share in almost $3 million to help them engage their communities and local businesses on the role they can play in preventing violence against women.

Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence Vicki Ward announced local councils will deliver a range of initiatives as part of the state government’s Free from Violence Local Government Program 2024-27.

In the North East, both the Benalla City Council and Greater Shepparton City Council received funding to deliver programs and activities that will help people in the community understand the role they can play to make their community safer.

The councils will identify opportunities through council programs and services, such as community sport, early childhood services and parenting groups, to address the attitudes and behaviours that drive family violence and violence against women.

This is the second round of the program, which is already supporting 15 councils to carry out primary prevention initiatives in their local area.

Previously both the Murrindindi Shire Council and Wangaratta Rural City Council received grants, with Wangaratta using the funding to deliver workshops to more than 200 council employees, with a focus on maledominated work groups such as depot workers and field services teams to look at how to prevent violence against women.

Delivered in partnership with Jesuit Social Services, these workshops aimed to break down harmful gender stereotypes and actively promote healthy masculinity.

Locally, Nola Cleeland, Mansfield Shire Council’s executive manager for community health and wellbeing confirmed that the prevention of violence against women and children is a priority in council’s Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing plan.

“Council’s children and family services programs support families through the early identification of family violence and appropriate referrals to specialist services,” Ms Cleeland said.

“We have seen an increase in families seeking assistance in recent years and as a member of the Ovens Murray Child and Family Services Alliance we work closely with The Orange Door.

“A key role is to advocate for our community to have face-to-face service in Mansfield Shire with specialist family violence providers, facilitate referrals and provide consultation facilities.

“Council is actively advocating for this.”

YOUTH CENTRE OPEN:

OUTDOOR SOCIAL SPACE: Mansfield young people from the ages of 12-15 can now visit the Youth Centre between 3:00pm to 5:30pm from Monday to Thursday located on Erril Street.

INDOOR STUDY SPACE: Mansfield youth can undetake social activities and their homework at the Mansfield Youth Centre.

Youth Centre to hold open day

By TRINITY KNIGHT

MANSFIELD Shire young people from the ages of 12-15 can now visit the Youth Centre located on Erril Street between 3:00pm to 5:30pm from Monday to Thursday.

There will be an open day on March 6 from 10am to 1pm.

Council’s coordinator of economic development youth, tourism and events, Gareth MacDonald, said pre-COVID programs held at the Youth Centre have been reviewed and they are excited to provide a new structured program.

“Council is at the stage now of rebuilding the centre and just trying to let everyone know that

we’re back and we’re open,” Mr MacDonald said.

“We’re changing the way it works and making a schedule with structured days.”

Youth program officer for disaster resilience, Emma Kay, said each day has different theme.

“Monday is a social day for youth to come down and play pool, Xbox, basketball and hang out,” she said.

“Tuesday night is dedicated to dungeons and dragons, which was a program held at the high school previously.

“Wednesday is fitness and mindfulness night, so it can be anything from yoga, cardio, hit, meditation, and local bushwalks.

“Thursday nights is games day,

for people to come down and hang out and play ball games, cards and outdoor games while getting to interact with a few people.”

Mr MacDonald said that alongside a diverse range of activities there will be youth events and community projects such as Future Proof, Engage and FReeZA.

“Future Proof aims to support young people from the ages of 12 to 25 in attaining locally useful qualifications, including Emergency Response, Community Development, Mental Health, CFA/SES, Youth Work and Public Safety,” he said.

Ms Kay said that there are a variety of facilities at the Youth Centre.

“There’s always a study open

and we also have a music room out the back, because we’re aware that music is quite loud and some parents don’t like their kids practicing at home,” she said.

“There’s a lot of youth and adults that can’t afford to go to the gym and a lot of young people don’t go to the gym because they’re surrounded by adults.

“The fitness night arose from that concept, because we’re trying to offer things for all demographics and backgrounds.

“It is so important to have a space like this for young people to connect for their mental health and wellbeing.”

For further information contact youth.services@mansfield. vic.gov.au or call (03) 5775 8619.

Gareth MacDonald, Emma Kay and Yasmin Azzopardi outside Mansfield’s Youth Centre which will hold an open day on March 6.

Up there, Kennelly

By EMMA OLIVER

THIS International Women’s Day we’d like to celebrate one of our own, as Mansfield Courier journalist Hannah Kennelly navigates the fastpaced environment of a major metropolitan newsroom, swapping her desk at the Courier for a 12-week placement at The Age.

Open to journalists from regional Victoria, the William Buckland Foundation Fellowship is facilitated by the Walkely Foundation, with the objective to upskill journalists gaining handson experience supported by senior journalists at The Age.

It is a monumental achievement.

Six weeks into her placement, Hannah is thoroughly enjoying the experience, with the position allowing her to rotate through numerous departments from sports to culture and politics.

“Obviously one of the standouts, was a feature article on Kevin the black swan,” Hannah said with a laugh.

“Swans generally mate for life, but he’s on his fourth partner now after a series of tragic events, with two of his previous lady loves being mauled by dogs.

“There’s a petition – more than 2500 signatures long –demanding more enforcement of the Reservoir park’s on-leash area to avoid this tragedy repeating itself.”

In more hard-hitting news Hannah has also tackled a

FROM THE COUNTRY TO THE CITY, MANSFIELD COURIER JOURNALIST’S STAR IS ON THE RISE

comparison of AFL membership prices, investigated the death of the school canteen as volunteer numbers drop, and covered the journey of a pregnant Taylor Swift fan who went into labour midconcert and stuck it out to the end, before heading to hospital to give birth shortly thereafter.

“The position requires that I also pitch numerous story ideas, and I do have to complete a dedicated project which will be an expansion on an article I originally wrote for the Courier on women in AFL,” she said.

Hannah joined the Courier in March of 2023, having made the move south from sunny Brisbane.

It was her second job in journalism, having previously worked at the Catholic Leader, but she quickly established herself as a professional and competent journalist with a knack for finding a great story, a gift with words and a voice for the airwaves.

“Six months before the end of my degree I began work at the Catholic Leader,” Hannah said of her journey prior to making the High Country home.

“It was shortly after COVID and metropolitan newsrooms didn’t have many available job vacancies and I was very keen to get that work experience.

“I thoroughly enjoyed my role at the Catholic Leader as the majority of topics were social justice oriented and I covered things like domestic violence, mental health and homelessness.

“I feel very fortunate to have

had the opportunity to explore some of these topics in-depth, which your more mainstream newsroom may not have the time to pursue.

“It provided a great foundation, developing skills that I use today.”

Hannah has spent the time since leaving high school building up her skills portfolio.

In 2019, Hannah embarked on a double degree at the University of Queensland, combining a bachelor of journalism with a bachelor of arts majoring in psychology with a minor in French.

“The idea initially was that after the first year I would choose between the two which degree I wanted to pursue,” she said.

“But I ended up loving them both.”

And despite the increased workload, Hannah finished them both, all whilst working as a medical receptionist during the height of the pandemic and the vaccine roll-outs.

“I spent four years working in GP clinics and hospitals in administration, juggling my study commitments which went online in 2020,” she said.

“Though I found psychology to be surprisingly statisticsheavy - which I did struggle with - and French at tertiary level was challenging at times, I wouldn’t have it any other way.

“I’m very glad I did both degrees.

“I believe that good journalists

ask good questions, but they also know when to listen.

“And that’s what a good psychologist does as well.

“I found the two disciplines – psychology and journalism – actually overlapped and complemented one another, and both have informed my practice going forward.

“Even those four awful years spent doing advanced statistics has proven handy as a journalist.”

Hannah attributes part of her drive to work in journalism to a love of both reading and writing ever since she was little.

“I had to write a news report in grade five as an assignment,” said Hannah.

“It may have been article on recyclables – so nothing thrilling - but I did get a gold star, which might have fueled my passion.

“And there was also a poetry anthology at some point.

“I wrote a poem on vegetables that I recall was quite sensational.

“Maybe that was the definitive moment.”

From penning an ode to the humble vegie in primary school to securing a commendation for best sports story at the Rural Press Club awards with an article on Shooting Australia’s funding crisis, to the heady heights of live blogging the Taylor Swift concert as The Age’s on-the-ground reporter, Hannah’s trajectory is on the ascendancy.

And with her star on the rise, hers is a name to look out forHannah Kennelly, news journalist.

STAR ON THE RISE: Hannah Kennelly with her Rural Press Club of Victoria award for Best Sports Story, which was written during her tenure at the Mansfield Courier.

WOMEN’S leadership in law

Foster Legal Lawyers, located in the supportive service for clients. Eve the practice initially part-time while caring for her two young children. With the support of family and technology, it was not uncommon completed online from the kitchen

Eve is a member of the Victorian

which works to provide networking and professional development opportunities to regional lawyers. Foster Legal Lawyers also has collaborative networks established with lawyers and professionals who work as we do

networks enhance our services and support our clients while maintaining the collaborative approach which is central to our practice.

We embrace technology to ensure

is not the way for everyone and provide a personalised and understanding service. We support all members of economic or cultural background.

hope our clients and colleagues agree!

Foster Legal Lawyers

Conveyancing - Wills and EstatesCommercial and Business Law

www.fosterlegal.com.au

leasing and business sales and

0497 620 188

admin@fosterlegal.com.au

www.fosterlegal.com.au

Karen’s commitment to community

By TRINITY KNIGHT

KAREN Pirie is an inspiring female figure and role model in Mansfield having completed over 35 years of community service.

She has contributed to a variety of community led events, such as coordinating the MAD Potters (Mansfield and District Potters) Pottery Festival, MmudS (Mansfield Musical and Dramatic Society) and fundraised for new art spaces across Mansfield.

On Australia Day, she received the 2024 Senior Citizen award and the Pottery Festival received Best Community Event of the Year.

Karen first travelled to Australia from New Zealand in 1989 and became involved in Tolmie Sports and then joined the bush market committee alongside a number of other community events.

In New Zealand, at the age of 15 she completed a four year apprenticeship and became the first female apprentice in Australasia undertaking work within a unique form of printing called photolithography.

“When I was about 20 I finished my apprenticeship and came to Australia and worked in the printing industry for two years, then moved back to New Zealand for almost six years and following this, finally moved to Australia permanently,” she said.

Before Karen got involved with MmudS she hadn’t been involved in theatre before, but loved creating hats as a milliner and textiles making her own clothing.

“We were doing a show called my fair lady which has a lot of hats in it, so I started making costumes and haven’t stopped working since volunteering across the stage, out the back, in the wings and alongside this, I have been involved in the technical side, such as marketing,” she said.

Around the same time she started working at MmudS she became the president for Arts Mansfield and got on the committee of Spring Arts alongside other exhibitions.

“I learnt a lot about events within the community and how the arts community networked in the town,” Karen said.

“I started to develop my own art practice in various different genres, pottery,

she received the Senior Citizen award.

“You don’t do these things because you want to win an award, you do them because you live in the community and see how you can support and give back to others,” she said.

In light of International Women’s Day Karen said women who work together can create amazing things for the community and inspire young people.

“When women have goals and ambitions they motivate others to do the same,” she said.

textiles and ceramics and I was also working on making events, so that artists could have a bigger footprint and a bigger profile in the town.”

Karen has also worked at council as a contractor over the years getting funding for events.

“I was involved in the Mansfield High Country Festival, the Martin’s Garage Grand Parade and then more things had to be done online, so I learned how to make websites,” she said.

She was surprised and humbled when

“The more women that are active in a community, then the more empowered that community can be because women and men don’t do everything on their own.”

Karen said that MAD Potters are creating an empowering space for artists and members of the community hoping to pursue creative endeavors in Mansfield.

“We’ve got a lease on a building from council and we’re going to create a community pottery studio which will be ongoing all year,” she said.

“We are in the process of organising a kiln and wheel tables which will be available for the community.”

Celebrating International Women’s Day

There has always been great examples of trailblazing women but despite that, there is still more that can be achieved. That’s why International Women’s Day remains women have made extraordinary contributions in all areas of the workforce and forged their way in typically male dominated environments.

Having a key role as Shadow Minister for Women, Prevention of Family Violence and Small Business, State Liberal Member for Eildon, Cindy McLeish, is glad to be representing women across the electorate and in Parliament.

Small businesses make up 98 per cent of business in Victoria, with many businesses being female owned and operated. Female roles continue to grow across major companies too with women representing 35.7 per cent on ASX 200 boards, increasing from 29.7 per cent in 2019.

These shadow ministerial roles provide Cindy with the opportunity to make sure women are represented, heard, and supported. Cindy knows it is important for women to have independence in decision making, opportunities to work and study and access to their own

Cindy proudly has smart and capable women working in her office, assisting her in representing the community and raising matters in Parliament. She also has strong female colleagues who are voices for their own electorates and striving to make a positive change in Victoria.

Inspiring and hard-working women are certainly well represented in the Mansfield Shire, becoming successes in their own fields, and shaping the path for women to come.

ROLE MODEL: Karen Pirie has completed over 35 years of community service and contributions across events in Mansfield.

Mansfield’s Professional Women leading the way

MANSFIELD PROFESSIONAL GROUP

Hello Darlings,

We’re raising our glasses to the incredible women in our region who’ve wholeheartedly embraced new adventures, built amazing business and faced challenges with humour and grit.

To the women worldwide, of all colours, race, persuasion and gender for yourinspiring strength, intelligence, resilience and commitment to positive change. Cheers to us all, supporting each other with a friendly and fabulous spirit!

SASSY

SISTER DECADENT BLUEBERRY LIQUEUR

Kerryn Gooding and Natalie Davies head up

From left to right: Natalie Davies, Annmaree Howland, Catherine Pentony, Justine Silvers and Lauren Farrell. Missing: Kerryn Gooding and Rowena Butler.

Ph: 5775 2255 W240058

119 High Street, Mansfield

#InspireInclusion

#InspireInclusion

Happy International Women’s Day.

We want to acknowledge the amazing women in our lives. Those who raised us, love us and work with us.

Empowering women in the travel industry

GEMMA Ferguson has over 20 years of experience working in the travel industry and today she is the director and owner of Ferguson’s 5000 clients locally, in Melbourne, interstate and overseas.

“I’ve always had a passion for bringing the world to other people and journeys,” Gemma said.

Gemma started out working within the where she learnt important skills along the way.

an assistant manager undertaking mentoring and leadership roles,” she said.

women were able to work from home

“I think international women’s day is about inspiring others to understand of belonging, empowerment and environment where all women are Gemma plays an important role in her work. being a Mum of two teenage girls.

In the near future, Gemma hopes to

to do that and run my own business independently.”

Gemma said that the travel industry

is predominantly female with around 60 % women and 40% men, however

a mum in the past was unsustainable due

Gemma Ferguson Owner of Ferguson’s Travel

Commitment to keeping the nation’s farmers safe applauded by Worksafe Victoria

A MANSFIELD-BASED agtech company committed to protecting farming families and their assets was recognised by Worksafe Victoria at the coveted 2023 Worksafe Awards in Melbourne last Thursday.

Developed by local brothers and farmers James and Paul Diamond, AirAgri was a finalist alongside Mildura Citrus and named as the winner of the Commitment to Workplace Health and Safety on a Farm category in a glittering ceremony at the Sofitel Melbourne on Collins.

From the 100 nominations received, 16 finalists were shortlisted across six award categories.

AirAgri’s safety tracking and alert solution provides a series of automated safety notifications using proprietary rules, location, emergency and medical information, along with access to inventory and safe handling working documents to act like a digital filing cabinet on a farmer’s phone.

AirAgri’s solution is made up a series of independent components, designed to work where typi-

cal phones do not.

Leveraging direct to satellite and ground IoT networks the team have devised a solution that not only works in the bush but is easy to use, allowing farmers to get on with their job while having an added layer of confidence.

The business also provides property-specific weather forecasting enabling farmers to access accurate forecasts for their individual rural assets.

AirAgri co-founder James Diamond thanked WorkSafe Victoria for their commitment to identifying and rewarding businesses revolutionising agriculture in the work health and safety space.

“At AirAgri we have always believed the safety and wellbeing of farmers is paramount,” Mr Diamond said.

“Being acknowledged by WorkSafe Victoria not only validates our efforts but also reinforces our dedication to creating a safer, more resilient agricultural community.

“Our journey to this point has been driven by a passion for leveraging technology to address the unique challeng-

es faced by the agricultural industry.

“From our advanced lone worker safety system to our property-specific weather forecasting and mental health monitoring solutions,

every innovation is designed with the welfare of the agricultural community in mind.”

Mr Diamond paid tribute to the hard work and dedication of the AirAgri team,

partners and the farming community embracing the technology.

“We remain committed to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in agricultural safety and productivity,” he said.

“We believe that together we can create a future where every farmer and agricultural worker operates in a safe, supported and sustainable environment.”

AirAgri was one of 20 emerging Ag Tech start-ups to benefit from a $50,000 grant under the Victorian Government’s $1 million AgTech Grants Program.

The business was supported by the state government’s $15 million AgTech Regional Innovation Network (AgRIN) to complete the “Rocket Seeder” and the Farmers2Founders preaccelerator programs helping them refine their idea and develop their business skills.

Within AirAgri, 100 per cent of the data is stored and sovereign in Australia and is owned by the individual, who at any time can delete their data.

The farmer can download

their digital map and export it in a global format into a competing platform or another format for later use, or in turn, AirAgri can import data from other platforms.

According to James Diamond, AirAgri’s value proposition was never about helping farmers to drive yields or efficiency.

“Bring the farmer home safely and let them then manage yields and efficiency – there is no one better placed to do so,” he said.

“It’s all about the broader family, business operator or landowner having confidence and peace of mind when operating in rural Australia.

“Our key focus is farm safety – there is no better reason to get out of bed than to try and make sure every Aussie farmer comes home at the end of every day.”

AirAgri provides a free base service for digital property maps, individual and livestock record keeping, a second-tier service (tasks, paddocks and livestock) for the price of a cup of coffee and a premium service of proprietary farm safety capability.

Men’s Shed welcomes MP Helen Haines

By LYNN ELDER

THANKS to a federal grant of $15,000 the Mansfield Men’s Shed was able to complete some much-needed work at its Erril Street site last year and the member for Indi, Dr Helen Haines was able to see it on her most recent visit.

The new committee members elected at the Men’s Shed AGM on Monday, February 19 with other shed participants were keen to give Dr Haines a tour of the new facilities.

Dr Haines congratulated its members on their use of Commonwealth funding under the Stronger Communities Program which they secured to enable the works to be carried out with an opening in April 2023.

These funds allowed for the redevelopment of the shed toilet, kitchen and entrance area which have been most appreciated by the members of the men’s shed and also by the High Country Quilter ’s Group which uses a building at the rear of the shed.

“The government now knows the benefits of men’s sheds, it is a brand that is powerful,” Dr Haines said.

During her visit Dr Haines got to speak to several members and see some of the tools and equipment in use by the men.

She also was introduced to members of the High Country Quilters, who have also benefited from the new kitchen and toilet upgrade at the shed.

At the 2024 Mansfield Men’s Shed AGM, Chris Rath, who was returned for another term as president, reported on the challenges and positives throughout the year.

“We were lucky enough to secure some grant money for our new metal workshop, completing the forge, with

thanks to Doug Tarrant and the Bendigo Bank,” said Mr Rath.

“We also purchased our sawtop table saw, our last purchase was on the drawing board for a while, the CNC router and laser, this equipment will our shed viable to the next generation of members and will also generate a

COUNTRY QUILTERS:

good source of income.

“My wish for next year and into the future is to see our shed mix with other sheds in the region sharing ideas, equipment, maybe doing things a better way.

“I would like to grow our membership and see a group of younger members

take on the challenges and enjoyment of our shed, with new ideas that will take us into 2030.”

The executive of 2024 consists of Mr Rath as president, David Smithwick as secretary, Ray Barker as treasurer and Rob Baldock as vice president.

The High Country Quilt-

ers group meets every Tuesday, while the Men’s Shed group meets on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Men of any age can drop into the shed anytime to check out what goes on there and enjoy a cuppa in the new kitchen with other like-minded blokes.

SHEDDERS: Several members of the Mansfield Men’s Shed were more than happy to pose with MP Dr Helen Haines with a sign made with their new router and laser machine.

PHOTO: Lynn Elder

NEW COMMITTEE: (From left) Men’s Shed members Dennis Barnes, David Smithwick, Ray Barker, Ray Barker, Chris Rath and Sam Pitrelli with Dr Helen Haines. Missing are Rob Baldock and Jurgen Lochtenberg.

PHOTO: Lynn Elder

HIGH

(From left) Members Maggie Johnson, Nina Walsh, Julie Stewart and Kath Mahoney got to show off their work to Dr Helen Haines.

LOCAL START-UP: James, left, and Paul Diamond, right, AirAgri, accept their award from Worksafe Victoria chief executive officer Joe Calafiore at the 34th annual Worksafe Awards.

property of the week

both comfort and income with two dwellings. The elevated main residence, a solid brick construction with a double garage, welcomes you with a spacious family floor plan, 2 lounge rooms, plus a games room, and two master bedrooms. The heart of the home is a newly renovated kitchen showcasing a generous island bench, walk-in pantry, and high-end appliances against the timeless elegance of Caesarstone bench tops.

“Craigemont” cottage, a charming 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom retreat located at the front of the property, ensuring privacy from the main residence. Currently operating as a successful Airbnb, it generates $400 approx per night, offering guests a delightful experience amidst the local surroundings. Ideal for overflow guests, teenagers, and extended family.

Additional features:

‐12 x 9m shed with 3 roller doors

‐14 x 7m shed with sliding doors ‐Evap cooling throughout the main

house plus split systems

‐Feature fireplaces in the main lounge room

‐12 panel 5.5k approx solar system

‐100,000l rainwater tank, 5,000l header tank 38,000l off cottage

‐Main house 4 bedrooms, cottage 2 bedrooms

Positioned a mere 10 minutes from Mansfield township and within moments of the lake, this property showcases exquisite sunsets. Seize the opportunity to own a lifestyle property with an income earner. Enquire today to discover more.

Agent Ray White Mansfield

Phone 5775 2792

Location 3 Hollams Rd, Mansfield

Land 7.6 acres

Price $1,525,000 - $1,650,000

Please have a browse through the latest edition of ‘The District’ online by scanning the QR code, or drop past our office at 30D High Street and pick up a printed copy.

It’s

Page 26 - MANSFIELD COURIER - Wednesday, March 6, 2024 mansfieldcourier.com.au

LAKEVIEW

32 LAKE DRIVE, HOWQUA INLET

24 CHENERY ST, JAMIESON

SATURDAY 9 MAR 10.30PM - 11AM

944 SQM

785 M2

ESCAPE TO JAMIESON $495,000

Nestled just one block away from the local Pub and cafe in Jamieson, this two-bedroom, one-bathroom home is a perfect blend of comfort and convenience.

Are you looking for a weekender, airbnb potential or a permanent residence? Then join us for our open house or contact the team for a private inspection

785 M2

4 2 2 2,359 m2

40A High Street MANSFIELD mansfieldrealestate.com.au P: 5775 1188

Making a berry big change

BY EMMA OLIVER eoliver@ nemedia.com.au

KRYSTLE and Tim Walker were initially looking for an investment property that they could bring their caravan up to.

What they discovered was Bimbimbi Berries, a 40 acre certified-organic farm in Barjarg with sweeping views of Lake Nillahcootie, and all ideas of a weekender were quickly dispelled.

“Our initial thought was that we could manage being parttime farmers, however when we realised what the job actually entailed we knew that if we were going to do it we had to commit 100 per cent,” Krystle said.

And so the family packed up their home in Langwarrin and made the move north east.

Krystle admits that it wasn’t a difficult decision.

“Tim is originally from the region and he has lots of family in Benalla and Lima,” she said.

“His grandparents used to farm in Lurg - predominantly beef cattle and sheep – and so there was already a strong connection to the area.

“And to be honest, we didn’t really look at any lifestyle blocks.

“We literally just looked at this.

“We came for an hour and stayed for the entire afternoon, and left knowing that this is what we wanted to do.”

It was October 2023 that the couple and their two young children Billy and Charlie began their new adventure as strawberry farmers, re-naming the business Lakeside Produce and Berries.

The caravan became a vital part of the equation, for though the farm was fully functional there was no house.

“The previous owners had done everything outside,” said Krystle.

“From the extensive irrigation system to installing water tanks and a worm farm septic system, to grafting and planting hundreds of trees and shrubs which are now quite established - it was all here.

“Essentially it was everything we wanted in a property and we were thrilled with the set-up, and the lack of a house was actually a positive.

“Tim is a builder and so buying a house wasn’t really economical for us.

“Buying a garden however was ideal.”

With the property also came the invaluable mentorship of the previous owners Nina and Andrew Meier, who have generously guided the new custodians on their journey into berry growing.

“Having Andrew and Nina onboard meant that we could get our organic certification immediately, so the farm didn’t have to revert to organic in conversion, which can take a couple of years when transitioning a business,” Krystle said.

Walking on-farm just as the strawberry season was about to begin represented a steep learning curve for the Walkers, however Krystle is thrilled with how their

We’re loving our new reality, and it’s still so nice to wake up and have this all around us.

- KRYSTLE WALKER

first harvest turned out.

“There are two acres of strawberries and we were monitoring them,” she said.

“One moment they weren’t quite ready, and then they were.

“We had that sudden realisation that we needed to pick them straight away.

“At that stage we had just a few backpackers on-board, and had to rapidly find a workforce.

“However we were lucky enough to find some more people through friends and acquaintances, and we ended up with about 11 of us during the peak of the season with around 2,500 punnets going out a week.”

The strawberries are sold into Mansfield’s local IGA as well as Harvest Wholefoods on Mansfield’s High Street, with a few places up towards Shepparton also stocking Lakeside berries.

The bulk of the produce is then shipped to the Epping markets in Melbourne as well as the Sydney wholesale equivalent, with the couple unable to meet ever increasing demand with the product sought-after in both states.

“We’re putting in two new fields - which should be planted out in the next fortnight – so we’ll be good to go next season,” said Krystle.

“We’ll also be pulling out one of the fields as this growing season draws to a close.

“The plants in this field are over three years old, and once they hit this point, they produce too many crowns and as a result the fruit

become small and overcrowded.

“As this was our first season we didn’t really want to pull them out.

“We wanted to work with what we had and get a feeling for the business.

“And now we’ve gained that confidence we feel comfortable that we can handle it, and we’re keen to expand as we absolutely need the supply.”

The couple are also considering diversifying their crop, with the previous owners planting out raspberry canes – both summer and autumn varietals - and blueberry bushes.

“We are definitely investigating the potential of growing raspberries commercially,” said Krystle.

“There is certainly the demand there, however at the moment the cultivars we have produce very small fruit.

“They are the size of the tip of your finger and weigh between one and two grams each.

“Over Summer we harvested 12 punnets for selling, and got three kilograms of frozen.

“It was a lot of berries for very little reward,” she said with a laugh.

White strawberries are also on the Walker’s radar and the couple are implementing their five year plan to grow Yuzu.

“It’s a long term vision for the citrus,” Krystle said.

“Next season we’ll get the paddock ready and the trees in.

“We’ve allocated an acre to see how it goes, and we’re hoping that

the popularity of this Japanese citrus fruit continues to grow.” In the meantime, Krystle has planted out an extensive vegie garden, growing rhubarb, tomatoes, zucchini, cucumber, celery, capsicum, eggplant, watermelon, chillies and pumpkin alongside an array of herbs.

ime n e g hini, meggplant

“My dad is Czechoslovakian, and his memories of his childhood are of his family growing and producing everything themselves,” she said.

“My reality was similar – even though I was born in Australia –we always had a vegie patch and chicken coop and we always raised and killed our own meat.

“It’s what I’ve always known.

“Even when Tim and I lived in an apartment in Edithvale, we had a balcony covered with pots of herbs and tomato plants.

“We always found a way.

“In Langwarrin, we had two and a half acres with chickens, a vegie garden, a glasshouse and bee hives.

“We were growing everything organically there as well.”

Any excess was then sold on to Krystle’s clients complementing her business as a personal trainer.

“It was great to be able to provide nutritiously grown produce alongside creating health and fitness goals for my clients,” Krystle said of her holistic approach to training.

“When we moved up to Barjarg,

I really missed my home-grown produce, and so we put in three rows of assorted vegetables.”

At the moment Krystle is stocking Harvest Wholefoods with her excess Summer crop, and has plans to offer farmgate sales in the future.

For Krystle - who has something of a green thumb - the business of growing is a joy and organics are her passion, so to be able to make it into a commercial enterprise seems almost a privilege.

“Find me in the garden any day of the week,” said Krystle.

“We’re loving our new reality, and it’s still so nice to wake up and have this all around us.”

And even though Krystle admits that the couple are flatout with Tim still managing his building business in Melbourne, and Krystle juggling on-farm commitments alongside the bookwork and being a mum, the vision of the children covered in strawberries after a day in the paddocks makes it all worthwhile.

BERRY GOODNESS: Lakeside strawberries are a soughtafter commodity with the Walkers struggling to meet demand.

NEW ENTERPRISE: Tim and Krystle Walker are the new custodians of Lakeside Produce and Berries in Barjarg, formerly Bimbimbi Berries.

MARCH 9-10

The Cobber Supreme Stock Dog Challenge

MARCH 10

Swanpool Motor Festival

March

 MARCH 8: Poets of Pottery Exhibition (Opening celebration Mansfield Pottery Festival), Masonic Hall, 6pm to 7.30pm, all welcome. Free entry.

 MARCH 9: Visualising the Environment: Environmental Photography Masterclass with Alison Pouliot. For more information or to book, contact Up2Us Landcare Alliance, www. up2us.org.au/events or 5779 1593.

 MARCH 9: Potters Market as part of the Mansfield Pottery Festival, High Street median strip, 10am to 2pm

 MARCH 9 -10: Poets of Pottery Exhibition, Masonic Hall, 10am to 4pm.

 MARCH 9: Peppin Hub Inc - Car boot sale - $20 per vehicle, add $10 with trailer. Wood raffle draw. 10am to 2pm. Contact Chris 0438 279 312.

 MARCH 9: Merrijig Rodeo, McCormack Park, gates open 12pm, main event 6.30pm. Tickets online.

 MARCH 9 - 10: The Cobber Supreme Stock Dog Challenge, Mansfield Showgrounds.

 MARCH 10: Swanpool Motor Festival, Albert Heaney Oval, 2426 Midland Highway,

EVERY WEEK

Mansfield Croquet Club –Monday and Wednesday mornings

Swanpool. 8am to 3pm, $5 entry, $10 display vehicles. Swap meet, market stalls, refreshments and live entertainment.

 MARCH 18: U3A Mansfield meeting at Mansfield Library (enter by back door). 10am morning tea before a 10:30 start. Libby Vasey will be showing film clips of a significant woman in her family. For membership enquiries please call Trish 0437 357 829.

April

 APRIL 13: Jamieson Autumn Festival, 11am to 5pm.

WHAT’S ON CALENDAR

Regular Events:

 CWA Monthly meetings: 3rd Sunday afternoon, 2pm each month.

 CWA Craft Days: 1st and 3rd Wednesdays 10am, 2nd Thursday 6pm and 4th Wednesday at 6pm, each month.

 CWA Op shop open: most days from 10am.

 Family History Group at Mansfield Library. 3pm every 4th Thursday of the month.

 Grief and bereavement support group meets on the first Thursday of the month at Bob’s Shed, 82A Malcolm Street. All are welcome on a regular or casual basis and morning tea is provided. Ring 5775 3161 for more information.

 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.

 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 The Witches Brew

 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.

 Ladies Probus meets every second Monday of each month at Delatite Hotel for meetings and 4th Monday for social or as organised.

 Preschool storytime at Mansfield Library. Stories, songs and craft. Every 1st and 3rd Friday of the month 10.30am. Ph 5775 8621

 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

 U3A meetings are held on 1st and 3rd Mondays of each month at 10am at the Library.

Jamieson jam packed with events and visitors

LAST week, students at Jamieson Primary School enjoyed art and music classes with former school principal Genevieve Bolwell.

The students learned how to draw a lemur, followed by older students sharing their research on lemurs with the art class.

In the music class, students practiced singing the national anthem and rehearsed a song for the official opening of the energy node at the Jamieson Memorial Hall on Friday, March 15.

Genevieve Bolwell then

took the students and teachers to the Mansfield pool for a fun-filled afternoon, where they participated in classic swimming races and novelty events. This was part of the annual swimming event organized by Merrijig Primary School.

ON Friday, March 8, 45 4WD cars will arrive in Jamieson for a financial

presentation from The Variety Club to Jamieson Primary School.

The presentation, morning tea, and games will commence at 9:00 am.

Members of the Variety Club will present a cheque to the Jamieson Primary School Principal Sonja Kalbitzer to provide sporting equipment.

Parents, local residents, and friends of Jamieson Primary School are welcome to attend.

NEXT Saturday, March

9, three exhibitors from Jamieson Potters group, Dianna Kilford, Wendy Blackledge, and Marge Pearse, will showcase their creative ceramics and pottery at the Mansfield Potters Festival.

The potters have been working on new pieces and will have them at their stall in the Festival from 10:00 am –2:00 pm.

Dianna will also demonstrate how to throw clay to create large pieces of pottery.

Local resident Anthony

Jensen will hold a master class in large pottery during the festival.

LAST Wednesday, Feb 28, 15 students from Lauriston Girls School, Howqua Campus visited Jamieson. Due to extreme weather conditions, the planned excursion to Sheep Yard Flat was cancelled, and the group enjoyed a walk around Jamieson instead.

ON Friday, March 15, the Official Opening of the Jamieson Community energy

node will take place.

The project, supported by Renewable Energy Mansfield and the Mansfield Shire Council, has been completed with the assistance of Commonwealth Black Summer Bush Fire Recovery Grants 2021 – 2024.

The Hon. Dr. Helen Haines will attend the event.

NEXT Sunday, March 10, Fr. George Feliciouz will celebrate mass at Saint John the Apostle church in Jamieson at 11:00 am.

All are welcome to attend.

Poets in Pottery display.

ARTISAN: Pitcher and goblets by Diana Kilford at the stall display.

Information

PUBLIC NOTICES

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:

JESS KIRLEY

To enter call Radio Mansfield on 5775 2333

CAR ADVERTISERS

Private vendors of motor cars advertised for sale must include in their advertisement

PHOTOGRAPHS

FOUND ADVERTISEMENTS

All found advertisements are

PERSONAL ADVERTISERS

ADDITIONS

INTERNET

TRADE/RETAIL STAFF

required for weekend work

Saturday and Sunday, experience preferred but not essential, Some heavy lifting involved.

Contact Hayley or email Yenckensmansfield@yenckens.com.au with resume.

WARD CLERK - ADMINISTRATION

Permanent Part time

Mansfield District Hospital has an opportunity for a Ward Clerk. The role is one that will support in the delivery of Great Care at Mansfield District Hospital to patients and residents. Weekend and weekday shifts included in roster – 0.4 EFT (16 hours). Great opportunity to show off your excellent interpersonal and customer focused skills, as well as your computer and IT knowledge, while working in a team environment.

Position Type: Permanent Part time

Closing Date: 22nd March 2024

Position Description and Applications: https://www.livehire.com/job/mdh/G4CHB

Due to the Labour Day public holiday, the classified advertising deadline for Wednesday, March 13

will be Friday, March 8 at 4pm

Phone: 5723 0101 ext 1

Email: classifieds@nemedia.com.au

TRADES & SERVICES

Pool Fence Inspection

Contact Tom at Balwyn Pool Fence Inspections to arrange your pool or spa barrier Compliance Certificate. We cover all of Mansfield Shire. Call 0424 180 356 to make a booking today!

$8500. Ph 0458 583 608.

2010 NT Pajero Platinum 3.2 L turbo diesel, 253,400km, reg Dec ‘24 (ZQJ384), bull bar, driving lights, redarc break controller, UHF, aux 120 AH AGM battery, BC DC charger, rear suspension airbags, full service and m aintenance history, $19,500. Ph 0417 751 534.

REDUCED

2002 Toyota Landcruiser Prado Grande Auto 4cyl 3lt diesel, excellently maintained by original owner, always garaged, service records, new tyres, leather seats, powered windows, sunroof, remote locking, many features ahead of its time, 458,790km, RWC, registration till August, (RTM 834), REDUCED TO $13,500. Phone John 0418 336 819.

MAZDA 3 Meo 2010, 2ltr manual, 6 speed, graphite in colour, cruise control, always serviced at Mazda, rwc, new tyres, excellent condition, 1 owner, 287,000km, $6500 ono, (X0C012). Ph 0456 236 310.

KOKODA caravan

20’6” 2017 model, full ensuite with ceramic vanity, front island queen bed, café dinette with trifold table, 190Ltr 3 way fridge, full oven with 3 gas and 1 electric burner, 19” digital TV, reverse cycle aircon, LED down lights, top load washing machine, rolled bench tops, drawers on rollers, diesel heater installed, double glazed windows, full checker plate on front and all-comp sides, roll-out awning, 2x 95ltr water tanks with galvanised stone, 22.6Ltr gas and electric hot water system, 2x 9kg gas bottles, deep cycle b attery with charger, solar wiring provision with regulator, generator hatch, picnic table, 6” alloy wheels, dual access tunnel boot with lights, immaculate condition, $49,950, legitimate r eason for selling, located in Bright. P h 0418 802 351 or 0427 189 176.

Mansfield’s Marketplace

DEATH NOTICES

FUNERAL

CARAVANS & CAMPERS

WANTED

WANT to buy Toyota

HiAce Camper Van and Small Caravan. Call Brendan 0402 113 112.

2019 Black Series Alpha, used twice, excellent condition, additional annexe and top rack, $6500 negotiable. Call 0417 154 229.

SUNCAMPER Pop-up camper, good condition, near new canvas, pvc windows, zips, flooring, 2 double beds, table and seating, includes annex and 8 person canvas tent, $3000 ono. Ph 0438 722 310.

HONDA AG bike

X R190CT, as new, p urchased new in A pril 2023, travelled only 350km, farm bike r egistration (2049Z) and RWC, $5500. Ph 0407 752 960 (no text)

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

Sewing machines (two), Husqvarna Viking designer embroidery and 1 Huskylock 910, 1 horn cabinet and 1 horn cutting table plus loads of cotton and handbooks, best offer, phone 0461 596 819.

NOTLEY (nee Dale), Patricia Joan.

31/5/1935 – 2/3/2024

Passed away peacefully surrounded by her family.

Eldest daughter of James and Catherine Dale (dec).

Sister to Kevin (dec), Jonny (dec), Terry and MaryEllen.

Loving wife of Neville “Snowy” (dec), cherished mother of Maureen, Aileen, Leonie (dec), Debbie, Bill, Eric, Alex and Kate.

Mother-in-law of Hank, Joes, Dereck, Michelle, Belinda and Simon.

Grandmother to 20 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren.

NOTLEY (nee Dale), Patricia Joan.

31/5/1935 – 2/3/2024

We will cherish the memories we have of you, Patty through your long lifetime, some good, some sad but also great. Always remembered by her loving brother Terry and sister-in-law June.

Loving sister of MaryEllen and sister-in-law to Gary A life well lived, happy memories never forgotten.

Loved sister of Kevin (dec) and Barb (dec), Aunty of Jenny, Bronwyn and their families. Pat, I hope the bars open and the horses are winning.

Forever in our hearts.

- Maureen, Brendan, the girls and their families.

Loved mother of Aileen and Jos.

Grandmother of Melissa, Leigh and Rachel. Great-grandmother of Beau, Elise and Danielle. Treasured memories.

Rest in peace.

Loved mother to Debbie and Dereck (dec).

Nanna to Steven and Erin, Veronica and Calvin, Allison (dec) and Jarrod and Roy.

Patty to Eddie and Mick, Jude and Belle. Lots of great memories.

Rest peacefully.

Keep picking those winners.

Loved mother and mother-in-law to Bill and Michelle.

Loving Patty to Madeline and Riley, Sam and Tash. Great-grandmother to Lily, Alexia and Kaia.

Time will not dim the face I love, The voice I heard each day, The many things you did for me

In your own special way.

All my life I’ll miss you

As the years come and go, But in my heart I’ll keep you

Because I love you so.

All our love

- Eric, Belinda, Jack, Hayley and Parker, Ben, Kaitlin, Hallie and Bridie, Kirsten and Flyn.

Loved mother of Alex.

Grandmother to Grace, Hannah and Mark. Great-grandmother to Archie and Charlie. She was a strong soul who will be dearly missed. ~

AIVATOGLOU, George.

A memorial service to celebrate the life of George Aivatoglou of “George’s Ski Hire Mt Buller and Evangelia Nursing Home, Parkdale” will be held at WD Rose Brighton, 139 Marriage Road, Brighton on Wednesday, March 13, 2024 at 2pm. Livestream link available at wdrose. com.au/upcoming funerals.

MATTHEWS (nee Golin).

Friends, relatives, and those whose hearts have been touched by Fernanda are invited to help celebrate her life with her family. The funeral service to celebrate Fernanda Golin Matthews’ life will be held in St Patrick’s Catholic Church, 1 Ford Street, Wangaratta on Friday, March 8, 2024 at 1.30pm. Burial will follow Mass at the Wangaratta Cemetery. Fernanda’s Mass may be viewed via livestream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming

Mason Park Funerals

5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

NOTLEY

The funeral service celebrating the life of Patricia Joan Notley (nee Dale) will be held on Thursday, March 7, 2024 at McCormack commencing at 1pm. Private cremation.

BEREAVEMENT THANKS

HUGGINS, Arthur.

Morag and Ewen would like to thank everyone for their cards and messages and to thank all of you who joined us to farewell Arthur at Bonnie Doon, including those from times gone past or from far away. Your tribute meant a lot to us and we know Arthur would be both humbled and very touched.

Thank you.

Loving mother of Kate and Simon, the best Paddy to Beth and Errol, James and Maddi, Ellen and Chloe. Great Paddy to Paige, Lincoln, Alby and Bill. You were one of a kind and you were my Mum. Always there to give advice and support. You have left us with so many memories and stories that will be forever told.

TURNOUT:

Record crowds at first outdoor expo

By TRINITY KNIGHT

MANSFIELD’S first ever hunting and fishing outdoor expo was a success, drawing record crowds last Saturday.

Estimates of approximately 8000 people attended the event which had close to 51 stalls showcasing a number of small businesses including hunting and fishing guides,

taxidermists, canvas makers, food, beer and cocktail vendors.

There were a variety of activities alongside cooking demonstrations from professional chefs.

Mark LaBrooy, John Ralley from Bush River Kitchen, Ross O’Meara and James Viles showcased their culinary skills and strategies about how to cook ethically harvested meats.

DISPLAY:

SUCCESSFUL DAY: Lachie

GREAT DAY: Jack Hocking had his sportfishing and phoenix bass boat on display at the outdoor expo.

COOKING DEMOS: Professional chef Mark LaBrooy displayed his culinary skills getting creative with ethically harvested meat.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS: Eliza McDonald holds a real snake at the Snake Safe Victoria market stall.

FAMILY FUN: Kids had the opportunity to meet reptiles on Saturday in a stall run by Snake Victoria.

HUNTING

Shawnti Coolahan and daughter Abbey Coolahan from Alpine Artistry had a fantastic day on Saturday.

Barr manager of the Tannery Barr travelled from Seville to showcase and sell his products.

GREAT

Thousands of people came down to see the (MHF) outdoor expo with 52 hunting, fishing and camping stalls.

MHF OUTDOOR EXPO: Estimates of approximately eight thousand people attended Mansfield’s first ever Hunting and Fishing Outdoor Expo on Saturday. Pictured (from left) Mel Kirley and Gareth MacDonald. PHOTOS: Trinity Knight

DAY OUT: Mansfield locals Bianca Hurle, Janine Polkinghorne and Cat Bowman had a great day at the expo.

Junior tennis champs crowned

TENNIS

By LIZA KARRAS MANSFIELD TENNIS ASSOCIATION

Tiebreaker Tuesday

By LIZA KARRAS

LAST Tuesday was a balmy evening with some remarkably close results across the competition.

In the Hornets versus Spitfire contest the total games were even at the end of proceedings.

However, a 6-5 tiebreak win by Cal Bono and Geoff Hutchinson against Karyn Fraser and Judy Dixon in the final rubber secured a win for the Hornets on the night, four sets to two.

In a similar vein, the Bull Ants versus Wasps was a keenly fought challenge.

This time the total sets for each side were even at three sets all.

However, a strong 6-1 victory by Jaden Findlay and Keira McDonagh against Shane Hutchinson and Ilena Meek meant that the Bull Ants were triumphant on the night 31 games to 24.

Another interesting battle between Jumping Jacks and Redbacks was decided on games, with three sets won by both sides.

The three Jumping Jack sets won were all in a tiebreak, 6–5.

The other results favouring Redbacks were not as tight, and they secured a final win 33 games to 25.

The closeness of all matches on the night dem-

onstrates the evenness of the competition ensuring that the finals will be a tightly contested affair.

Ladder: Cicadas 57; Hornets 47.5; Wasps 42; Redbacks 40.5; Spitfires 40; Bull Ants 37; Jumping Jacks 29.

Wednesday Night Tennis

By CASS DAYKIN

It was a warm Wednesday night with all teams playing their best tennis.

Diablo may remain on the bottom of the ladder; however, the team is constantly striving to get every ball and has the best time playing as a team.

Diablo, Will Smith and Claud James took on the Raiders, David Aldous, and Kimberley Marsden, in one of their best sets yet.

With the set coming to a tie break and the Raiders just clinching it in the end six games to five.

Liam Wilson and Sophie Yencken of the Raiders had one another’s backs and took their set six games to nil against Dafydd James and Mikaela Richardson.

The Raiders won all sets that night, but Diablo still walked away smiling.

It was a tight match between the Bandidos and Outlaws.

David Mims and Ben Brabazon from the Bandidos went down to the ever-improving Outlaws Max O’Loughlan and Mark O’Loughlan taking

the set six games to one.

Their team mates on the court beside from Bandidos Emma Kay and Jo Brabazon fought their way out of a gruelling set against Courtney O’Loughlan and Bronwyn Sly from Outlaws.

The set went to a tie break with the Bandidos taking the win six sets to five.

The night continued with both teams hitting some of their best shots to gain the lead, it was a fight to the end with both teams taking three sets each.

It came down to games won with the Outlaws holding on the take the match 31 games to 22.

The Hustlers and Rascals played some great tennis on the night.

The match began with Chris Hewlett and Will McAlister from Hustlers taking on Nick Ferguson and Helen Knight from Rascals. Chris and Will sweated as they ran the court chasing well hit balls by Nick and Helen, with sweat dripping they took the first set six games to four.

Captain Cassie Daykin and Matty Lowe from Hustlers began their night with a few cunning shots between themselves and the Rascals Lisa Morgan and Jane Swinburne.

Matty sending some bullet serves and Jane on the quick return, it was a great set played by all with Hustlers stealing the set six games to two.

The night continued in favour of the Hustlers with

Chris and Matty giving no games away to Nick and Lisa winning the set six to nil.

Helen and Jane playing some strategic tennis against Cass and Will, making sure the Hustlers fought for their final set. However, Cass and Will proving a united team and winning the last set of the night six games to three.

The Hustlers walked away with all six sets in their pocket.

Ladder: Raiders 72; Hustlers 63; Outlaws 60.5; Bandidos 44.5; Rascals 31, Diablo 2.

Thursday night

By RHONDA CARPENTER

It feast or famine for Monopoly mainstay Alice Kilpatrick last week as her regular team of fill ins didn’t eventuate at the last minute.

Despite the forfeit to Backgammon, Monopoly remain in the four.

The warmth continued on Thursday night and Checkers stamped their authority on top spot.

Michael McCormack and Jason O’Brien whipped their opponents Scott Ersvaer and Rhonda Carpenter in record time six to nil. Equalisers Steve Earp and Bob Carpenter, however, were in for the long haul against Rach Parsons and Jo O’Brien.

Every player on this court found their best form using strong serves, baseline groundstrokes and classy courtcraft

Eventually Equalisers found momentum in the

breaker to win in seven to three long after the other set had finished.

Jo O’Brien showed great form with all her teammates and combined strongly with husband Jason in the final set winning six to one against the Carpenters Bob and Rhonda in an entertaining set.

Checkers were convincing in every set and picked up 6 match points to push further out on top.

Legends Tony Canterbury, Arthur Gerrans, Ben Nally and Hanna Aldous were in stunning form against Scrabble cementing their second spot with seven points.

Scrabble’s Al Crockett, Suzie Wellborne and Moira Moss welcomed Natalie Bergsma into the fold for some strong tennis, but they couldn’t match Legends’ class.

They could seriously challenge Checkers in the big dance.

While final placings could switch, the four top teams are set for the semifinals in three weeks’ time.

Ladder: Checkers 66; Legends 58; Equalisers 51; Monopoly 50; Backgammon 32; Scrabble 16.

Junior Championships

By JO O’BRIEN

With perfect tennis conditions, the Mansfield Tennis Association’s 2024 Junior Club Championships were held on Saturday morning

with 25 participants taking part and all nine courts a buzz with competition.

Congratulations to all the competitors that took part for your great sportsmanship and a huge thankyou to our wonderful parents and committee for supporting our Juniors creating an awesome atmosphere around the club.

16 and Under:

WINNER- Max O’Loughlan

RUNNER-UP: Edwin Morphett ;

14 and Under:

WINNER- Toby Gerrans

RUNNER-UP: James Baklis;

12 and Under:

WINNER- Jack Stevenson

RUNNER-UP: Angus Speirs;

Boys 10 and Under:

WINNER- Harrison Bergsma

RUNNER-UP: Archie Delany;

Girls 10 and Under:

WINNER- Eadie Hostettler

RUNNER-UP: Heidi Speirs

The club championships continue with women’s singles on Monday night, men’s singles Tuesday, mixed doubles Wednesday and men’s and women’s doubles on Thursday night at 6pm.

Finals, also of eight games sets, to be played at the end of the night.

There will be no junior tennis on the Labour Day weekend, but Hot Shots and Junior Comp will be run on March 16 and 24 when awards will be presented.

CONGRATS: Rohan West and Anna Speirs defeated Michael Whytcross and Will Smith 9-7 in tiebreak set. PHOTO: Liza Karras

WINNING TEAM: Hornets lineup Sarah Fox (left), Dan Robertson, Geoff Hutchison, and Cal Bono. PHOTO: Karyn Fraser

TOP OF HIS GAME: Max O’Loughlan is the 16 and under championship player for 2024. PHOTO: Ken Rainsbury

SIXTEEN AND UNDER: Boys runner up was Edwin Morphett. PHOTO: Ken Rainsbury

TOP HONOURS: Harrison Bergsma took out the 10 and under boys championship for 2024. PHOTO: Ken Rainsbury

EYE ON THE BALL: Rahni Cios on the court for the 10 and under girl’s match.

PHOTO: Ken Rainsbury

WINNING FORM: Winner of the 10 and under girl’s championship, Eadie Hostettler. PHOTO: Ken Rainsbury

RUNNER UP: Archie Delany swings that racket in the junior boys 10 and under championship. PHOTO: Ken Rainsbury

Wangaratta & District Cricket Association

A GRADE

WANGARATTA MAGPIES VS YARRAWONGA MULWALA

WANGARATTA MAGPIES 1ST INNINGS

Cooper Matheson c: R Clarke b: A McMillan ...........37

Lachlan Hadden c: R Clarke b: J Irvine .....................3

Jack Davies (c) c: M McCabe b: A Heslin .................18

Fraser Ellis c: Reid Clarke b: Angus McMillan ...........3

Ryan Malcolm run out: H Wheeler, R Clarke ...........22

Nic Bonwick c: H Wheeler b: B McCabe ..................48

Frazer Dent c: Reid Clarke b: Angus Heslin ...............5

Zac Guilfoyle c: R Clarke b: A McMillan .....................1

Matt Gathercole lbw: Brock McCabe ......................13

Charlie Stafford b: Brock McCabe .............................3

Thomas Clayton not out ..........................................0*

Extras..........................................................................7

Total ................................................................10 / 152

Overs .......................................................................66

Bowling: James Irvine (vc) 9/1/38/1, Angus Heslin

12/2/35/2, Matt McCabe 6/1/24/0, Angus McMillan (c) 22/9/26/3, Brock McCabe 17/6/28/3.

YARRAWONGA MULWALA 1ST INNINGS

Reid Clarke not out...................................................0*

Matt Knight c: Fraser Ellis b: Chris Clement .............3

Matt McCabe not out ................................................0*

Total ....................................................................... 1/0

Bowling: Matt Gathercole 3/3/0/0, Chris Clement 3/3/0/1.

SCOREBOARD: Saturday, March 2

ROVERS UNITED BRUCK VS BENALLA BUSHRANGERS

ROVERS UNITED BRUCK 1ST INNINGS

Josh O’Donohue c: Gary Priest b: Tyler Begnone ....3

Luke Whitten c: Daniel Brew b: Conor Brodie .........3

Bailey Dale b: Priyank Chohan................................36

Paddy McNamara (c) b: Priyank Chohan ................81

Jacob Beattie b: Conor Brodie ................................50

Matthew Whitten not out .......................................11*

Jeremy Wilson not out .............................................5*

Extras........................................................................11

Total .................................................................. 5 / 197

Overs .......................................................................66

Bowling: Conor Brodie 19/2/66/2, Tyler Begnone 7/1/21/1, Ross Cavill 13/5/23/0, Priyank Chohan 17/3/40/2, Daniel Brew 3/2/7/0, Mitchell Wheelens 7/0/32/0.

OVENS VALLEY UNITED VS CITY COLTS

CITY COLTS 1ST INNINGS

Corey Petersen c&b: Gurjot Gosal.............................1

Aaron Thrum b: Samuel Piazza.................................1

Josh Nanson b: Gurjot Gosal ..................................49

Jessie Smith b: James Neary ..................................14

William Petersen not out........................................48*

Tyler Nanson lbw: Gurjot Gosal ................................7

Justin Solimo c: Kane Fitzpatrick b: Gurjot Gosal....5

Kent Braden (c) c: Gurjot Gosal b: Conner Forde ...36

Jed Marek not out ..................................................12*

Extras........................................................................10

Total .................................................................. 7 / 178

Overs .......................................................................75

Bowling: Samuel Piazza 11/7/17/1, Gurjot Gosal

25/10/44/4, James Neary 10/6/17/1, Conner Forde

9/2/25/1, Cooper Thomason 7/0/32/0, Glenn White

10/2/31/0, Noah White 3/1/5/0.

TWEAKER: Ovens Valley United’s Gurjot Gosal took 4/44. PHOTO: Janet Watt

BEECHWORTH WANDERERS VS DELATITE

BEECHWORTH WANDERERS 1ST INNINGS

Kayde Surrey lbw: Lachlan Scales ..........................13

Clancy Ellett c: Kane Hoskin b: Peter Scales ..........38

Campbell Fendyk lbw: Peter Scales .........................8

Brenton Surrey (c) c: L Scales b: P Scales .................2

Hunter North b: Alec Ritchie .....................................7

Richard Worcester not out .....................................30*

Timothy Cogger b: Gregor Fraser..............................1

Will Prebble b: Alec Ritchie .......................................7

William Vlahos hit wicket b: Gregor Fraser ...............2

Brandon Fitzpatrick c: L Scales b: G Fraser ..............4

Dean Fitzpatrick b: Joe Kelleher .............................10

Extras........................................................................24

Total ................................................................10 / 144

Overs .......................................................................59

Bowling: Lachlan Scales 15/6/38/1, Joe Kelleher 5/1/20/1, Nicholas Bogar 3/0/8/0, Peter Scales 9/2/16/3, Alec Ritchie 9/4/21/2, Gregor Fraser 13/3/18/3, Michael Burrows 5/2/11/0.

DELATITE 1ST INNINGS

Gregor Fraser not out .............................................10*

Mark O’Loughlan b: Dean Fitzpatrick .....................17

Alec Ritchie lbw: Dean Fitzpatrick ............................1

Nick Scales not out ...................................................1*

Extras..........................................................................4

Total ....................................................................2 / 32

Overs .......................................................................13

Bowling: Timothy Cogger 5/2/9/0, Richard Worcester 2/0/7/0, Kayde Surrey 2/0/8/0, Campbell Fendyk 2/1/5/0, Dean Fitzpatrick 2/0/2/2.

A RESERVE: Yarrawonga Mulwala 10/191 Fraser Smart 60 Rhys Grant 4/30 vs Wangaratta Magpies 0/21 Chandan Kulkarni 12*. Benalla Bushrangers vs Rovers United Bruck 8/264 Jonathan Hyde 109 Rajinder Singh 3/48. Ovens Valley United vs City Colts 10/157 Alasdair Brett 73 Nathan Cooke 3/19. B GRADE: Rutherglen United 10/104 Stephen Jennings 26 def by Benalla Bushrangers 3/115 35* Baylee Morton 1/21. Merton 7/127 James Benton 45 Hunter Frauenfelder 3/11 def by Yarrawonga Mulwala 3/270 Luke Buerckner 100 Harry Craddock 1/24. Milawa 1/212 Jason Papworth 113* Tony Ormond 1/30 def City Colts 9/118 Scott Clayton 36 Kristopher Allan 5/38. Ovens Valley United 10/134 Patrick Bren 34 Adriano Speziale 4/34 def by Rovers United Bruck 8/228 Trevor Anderson 68 Benjamin McMasters 2/29. Greta 10/131 Aidan Callegari 63 Timothy Young 2/13 def by Beechworth Wanderers 8/120 Dylan Pool 46 Lachlan Alexander 4/8 C GRADE: Yarrawonga Mulwala 10/176 Shaun Hawking 67 Nathan Delaney 2/26 def Benalla Bushrangers 7/150 Nathan Delaney 43 Lucas Pickering 3/8. Greta 10/48 Declan Lawford 19 Aiden Blyth 5/12 def by Gapsted 10/96 Shane Wheeler 25 Russell Wyllie 2/12. UNDER 16: City Colts 3/67 def Rovers United Bruck 10/66.

DANGER MAN: Yarrawonga Mulwala skipper Angus McMillan took 3/26.

PHOTO: Melissa Beattie

BELOW PAR: Wangaratta Magpies’ Ryan Malcolm made 22 as his side set Yarrawonga Mulwala 153 for victory.

PHOTO: Melissa Beattie

Rising star Summer

By TRINITY KNIGHT

SUMMER Marie Godden is just nine years-old and before she could walk she was riding horses.

She got her first pony before she was one and started riding by herself at the age of three.

Summer has been competing in events and representing the Mansfield Pony Club from a very young age, being only four when she competed at the Brisbane Royal Showing against 15 other children and won.

In 2023, she received overall champion in the north east zone dressage showjumping trials series.

Summer started competing at state level last year and quickly progressed into level five.

She has been successful in several competitions after frequently practicing and riding her horse at home.

“I have my own horse named Jimmy and he is a Welsh pony who is 12 hands,” Summer said.

“Sometimes I ride mum’s thoroughbred, she’s a stock horse.

“We have six horses and three more down the road.

“My favourite things to do at horse-riding are jumping, dressage, cross country and showing.”

Summer does not have a lot of spare time between school and training.

When she isn’t horse-riding she undertakes ballet, jazz and school swimming.

She aspires to become a professional equestrian rider in the future and get into the highest level which is grade one.

Cool change and a new course

By DAVID BOCK

A DROP in temperature to a pleasant 26 degrees celsius in the hour before Thursday’s race was welcomed by the twenty two competitors gathered beside the cemetery preparing to race.

The 23 km course, consisting of two and a bit laps of the Stoneleigh Road - Merinda Way - Monkey Gully Road circuit, hadn’t been used for the Mansfield Mt Buller Cycling Club’s Thursday evening racing before, so was something of an unknown quantity, particularly for the handicapper.

A slight wind also added to the uncertainty.

Two Daves - Dave Jagger and Dave Bock - were the first to set off as the Limit group for the faster riders to try to chase down.

The next pair off consisted of Janine Appleton, racing after a bit of a hiatus, and Ethan Nealon, racing with the club for the first time.

The following group splintered early, losing first Craig Wilson then Steve Curnow.

After dropping Adam Baker,

Adrian Dowd and Ryan Schultz were able to work together for a while, before Ryan proved too strong and pulled away, so they all continued on solo.

Working more effectively as a group were Darren Bakker, Steve Duke, Mick Pearce, Carl Simmons, and Dave Moore, in his first race for a year or so.

The fastest competitors set off as two groups of four, the Block group of Bruce Halket, Dave Empey, Chris McKnight, and Chris Miller, having a two and a half minute head start over the Scratch bunch of Jake Lay, Talia Appleton, Dan Purcell, and Andy Garrett.

On the uphill run to the fin-

CATCH OF THE DAY: Rob Deeble with a trout caught last weekend at Lake Eildon.

ish line, still clear of the chase, Dave Jagger opened up a ten second gap on Bocky, to take the win, not far ahead of a bunch sprint of seven, charging for third place.

Ethan Nealon claimed that prize, ahead of Darren Bakker, Carl Simmons, Mick Pearce, Steve Duke, Adrian Dowd, and Ryan Schultz.

Just over thirty seconds later, Dave Moore crossed, to round out the top ten, five seconds in front of Dan Purcell, who claimed fastest time, crossing with Jake Lay.

Many thanks to the Commissaire, Allan Gerrans, and all the other officials.

Next week it’s the Barwite Loop.

With only three race left, the top ten of the current point score for the Summer Road Race Series sees Darren Bakker leading on 105 points ahead of this week’s winner, Dave Jagger on 81.

They’re followed by Ruby Dobson on 78, Bruce Halket - 76, Jake Lay - 67, Andy Garrett - 65, Mick Pearce - 63, Tim Ross - 61, then Steve Curnow and Adrian Dowd on 59.

with BEN DEEBLE

Lake Eildon conditions ideal for trout fishing

THE weather at Lake Eildon has been favourable for trout fishing, with clear skies and mild temperatures ranging between 18 to 25 degrees celsius.

The water temperature hovers around 16 degrees celsius, creating ideal conditions for trout activity.

Anglers targeting trout at Lake Eildon have found success using down riggers and lead lines, and the effectiveness of these techniques can be attributed to several factors.

Down riggers have proven effective in reaching the desired depth where trout tend to congregate.

By precisely controlling the depth of their lures, anglers can present their offerings at the optimal level, increasing the chances of enticing bites.

Lead lines, especially when paired with diving lures, have been successful in enticing trout in the shallower areas of the lake.

The sinking properties of lead lines allow lures to reach desired depths without the need for additional weights.

This approach is particularly effective in targeting trout suspended at varying depths, making it a versatile choice for anglers.

Anglers report that a trolling speed of 2.5 to 3.5 knots has produced optimal results when using these techniques.

The moderate trolling speed mimics the movement of natural prey, making the lures more appealing to the trout.

Varying lure colours, including bright patterns such as chartreuse and orange, has attracted the attention of the trout in the slightly stained water, where visibility may be reduced.

PowerBait in various colours, such as rainbow and garlic, has been effective for those fishing from the shore or in shallower areas.

Additionally, using a variety of locallyfavoured baitfish imitations has proven successful.

Anglers have reported catching trout sizes ranging up to an impressive 65 cm, showcasing the robust and healthy population of trout in Lake Eildon.

The main basin of Lake Eildon has been a hotspot for down rigger fishing, particularly around the submerged structure and dropoffs.

The Goulburn Arm and Big River Arm have also produced good results for anglers using lead lines, with the trout showing a preference for the slightly warmer water in these areas.

Overall, the trout population in Lake Eildon is thriving, providing anglers with exciting opportunities for a successful fishing experience.

As always, conservation measures are encouraged, including catch-and-release practices and adherence to bag limits, to ensure the sustainability of this popular trout fishery.

COOL CHANGE: Daves Bock and Jagger on their way to the two top steps of the podium.

PHOTO: Tony Copland

SHOWJUMPING: Summer shows off her skills at competition.

MANSFIELD PONY CLUB: Summer has been riding horses solo since she was three years old.

RISING STAR SUMMER: Representing the Mansfield Pony Club in 2023, Summer Marie Godden was the overall champion in the North East zone dressage, show jumping trials series.

Impressive Swanpool takes out final against A4 side

BOWLS

By LYN FOOTS MANSFIELD, BOWLS CLUB

LAST Tuesday saw the semifinals of the home pennant with the Red team of Mick Walsh, Doug Morley, Ian Morley and Anne Tilbrook taking an exciting win over the Pink team of Marco Bohren, Yvonne Robinson, Belinda Snider and Theo Scheltinga by one shot 21/20.

The other game saw the White team of Dom Diaz, Steve Lewis, Tony Wilkes

and Brian Sinclair have a comfortable win over the Lime team of Tom Tomic, Tony Pridham, Coral Taylor and Ida Rachele 23/14.

This week’s grand final will be between the Red team and the White team.

Good bowling to all.

With the home pennant into final’s mode, players not involved enjoyed a social game.

The winners were Noel Jackson and Anne Wileman with two wins 33pts from Glenda Revell and Harry Smith with two wins 31pts.

Friday’s social bowls saw 16 players having some fun with the winners on the day being Mark Bettany, Yvonne Robinson, Shane O’Brien and Anne Wileman with one win and a draw 26pts from George Peterson, Peter McNeill, Trevor Thompson and Christina Smith with one win 21 pts.

Saturday saw our A4 side playing the grand final against our nemesis and neighbour Swanpool.

After a great tussle, Swanpool managed to get the numbers on the day to

SQUARING UP: Merton Cricket Club in action.

MERTON’S SEASON OVER FOR NOW

CRICKET

By ROHAN BERRIMAN, MERTON CRICKET CLUB

MERTON Cricket Club hosted the in-form Yarrawonga on Saturday in the home side’s final game of the season.

Yarrawonga won the toss and

made a substantial 3/270 off 36 overs; opener H. Gillies 70 and l. Buerckner 100, the best batters for the visitors.

All the Merton bowlers had a hard day with Craddock, Berriman and Place the only wicket takers.

Merton’s innings started

win 94 shots to 62.

Rick Nichols, Chris Laws, Nikko and Lyn Holland had an amazing contest all day with the score being only one shot the difference all day.

Swanpool lost the last two ends but managed to hang on for the win 18/17.

Winston Taylor, Gary Fuller, Vicki Klein and Tom Tomic started well but their opponents were too strong on the day winning 24/16.

Mick Walsh, Irene Fuller, Jenny Walsh and Yvonne Robinson got off to a good

start leading 10 shots to four after the seventh end.

Swanpool lifted and by the 18th end the score was level on 16 shots a piece.

On the penultimate end Mansfield was leading 19/16 but dropped a score of five on the last end to lose the game 19/21.

The final rink of Graeme Tyers, Nick Klein, Don Cameron and Doug Morley hung in early but the class of their opponents quickly came to the fore with Swanpool taking a very impres-

sive win 31 shots to 10.

Congratulations to all players on another wonderful year.

We are proud of your achievements and you should be too.

Awesome.

Last Wednesday saw John Foots attending the Sports Person of the Year after being nominated and sponsored by Marks IGA.

A great night was had and John thanks Marks IGA for their sponsorship.

■ Photos next week

OFF THE BAT: Merton in its last game for the season. PHOTOS: James Benton

positively with A. Place 30 and top scorer J. Benton 45 playing their shots on the quick Merton outfield.

However when they departed, the rising run rate and limited fire-power in the middle order saw the home side no match for the experienced Yarrawonga side.

Merton finished on 7/127 off 36 overs with H. Frauenfelder 3/11 and S. Giblett 2/7 the best bowlers.

Yarrawonga will play a semi final next week against Benalla while Greta and Milawa will also play for a spot in the grand final.

For Merton it has been a struggle all season with limited availability of players.

The side has been a combination of junior players along with a few old blokes, with the added positive of giving the young guns plenty of experience at senior cricket level .

A bit of fun on the pitch before under 12s finals this week

CRICKET

By ANDREW COOK, UNDER

12S

AFTER a competitive season and as a break before our ‘Grand Final’, the Under 12s took the opportunity to have some fun at the Recreation Reserve last week with our annual ‘Parents vs Kids’ game. A mum, dad, uncle or grandparent for almost all the U12s were present to experience their kids’ cricket skills first-hand, while for many oldies it was an opportunity to dust off some old-school cricket skills to impress or sur-

prise their little ones.

The U12s generously permitted the parents’ team to bat first, allowing that team to arrive at the ground in dribs and drabs as they finished work. Each child was given the opportunity to bowl to their respective family member, but despite some of the best bowling seen all season little mercy was shown to most bowlers as runs were scored aplenty.

Despite the adult boundary line being set back some considerable distance from the kids’ boundary and the

field containing upwards of 20 fielders, many a four and six were scored.

Wickets were few and far between, although a flurry of wickets taken by Roy Mercieca (off his mum and grandfather) and Spencer Yencken did restrict the scoring somewhat.

When the kids came into bat many found themselves facing balls from family members of a speed and accuracy rarely encountered at home in backyard cricket, and the slow run-rate and regular loss of wickets was reflective of this.

Credit goes to Tommy Hood and Cecily Smith who were the only U12s able to manage a boundary off their parents’ bowling.

The result was never really in doubt, however despite the lopsided game everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves and the fantastic turnout showed how much our U12s cricket team has grown in the past couple of years.

The U12s grand final will be held at the Lords Oval this Wednesday evening, giving many of the kids their first taste of playing on a turf wicket.

DOWN THE PITCH: It was on for young and old in the Under 12s with Roy Mercieca bowling to his grandfather Mick Hough while his Mum Michelle Mercieca watched on from the non-striker’s end. PHOTO:

MEN’S GOLF

SNAPSHOTS: The Courier’s photographer Ken Rainsbury recently visited the Mansfield Golf Club for some snapshots of the men’s monthly medal competition.

Alan Parrott retrieved the ball beautifully from the sand.

Abbott the nine hole specialist

GOLF LADIES

By LINDA TERRY MANSFIELD LADIES GOLF

GOLFING numbers are looking great lately as everyone is back into their routines after the holidays.

There is also the incentive of working on our game and maybe improving our handicaps, with the course being in such good shape – and that is good timing, as we head towards our pennant season, which starts this week.

Last Tuesday, the ladies played their regular nine holes off the back and it seems Pam Abbott has a vice-like grip on the prize money in the nine hole format with yet another win this week scoring 18 points.

Joanne Cave was unlucky however, to be only runner up on a countback, while Jenny Koraus was third with 17.

Pam continued the same form to also win the nine hole George Walker on Thursday with 18 points again.

Well done Pam – must be time you came along on a Wednesday to show us your style over 18 holes as this is the fourth week in a row you’ve been in the money for nine holes.

Wednesday golf was our Monthly Medal, sponsored by long-term supporter of our women’s golf, Sanae’s Collections.

We are always so grateful to the local businesses who continue to sponsor our monthly medals.

The winner this month will be off to find herself a new fashion item from Sanae, Andrea Marsden with nett 70, just pipping Kylie Egan 71 and Sheryl Sargent 72 with the these three filling the A Grade places.

In B Grade the winner was Shirley Nolan 73, on a countback to Glenis Skinner and third was Lyn Poulson 74.

Nearest the pins went to Kylie Egan, Linda Terry, Margie Franke-Williams and Nicki Cooper while Sheryl Sargent had a great day with the putter to win that prize.

On Thursday quite a few of our ladies headed over to Jubilee on what can only be described as a blistering hot day to play in their annual bowl event.

SPECIALIST: Pam Abbott again showed her prowess over nine holes during last week’s Tuesday competition.

It was Lyn Poulson’s turn to shine with an equally blistering score of 39 points to take out the B Grade comp.

Meanwhile we also had a team playing in the Hidden Valley Bowl and Sue Crow also took the win in B Grade there.

Well done to our travelling ladies who fly the flag for Mansfield.

Finally, to wrap up the week, there was a novelty team event played with the men on Saturday.

Called the Pink Ball event, mixed teams of three or four, play their usual stableford, but each team member takes turns at playing a hole with a single pink ball they are issued with.

The pink ball score is recorded separately with double points each hole.

If a player loses the pink ball it is all over red rover for their team – which happened to two teams.

Winners of the three person pink ball team were the Sargent family of Sheryl and sons Aaron and Justin with 74 points, while the winning four person team was the combination of Tim Reilly, Steve Chisolm, Kane Blunt and Lyn Poulson.

A fun end to the week.

Meanwhile in the regular daily stableford comp, Marion Sargeant was in great form to win the day for the women with 36 points.

Runner up was Lyn Poulson with 34 on a countback to Sheryl Sargent third.

Next week the ladies start their pennant season with Division Two off to Yarrawonga, Division Four to Jubilee, and Division Three are hosting at home.

Good luck girls!

SPLASH:

PHOTO: Supplied

A BLAST

Delatite wrangle Wanderers

CRICKET By PETER SCALES, DELATITE A GRADE

THERE were wholesale changes in the Delatite A grade line-up for the last round of the WDCA homeand-away season.

Six players came out of the previous week’s side, with a number unavailable due to work and family commitments, and some choosing to be elsewhere.

The team battled on with some new inclusions, including the father-son duo

of Kane and Nick Hoskin, and put in a very good showing against the Beechworth Wanderers CC at the picturesque Barmutha Park.

The hosts won the toss and batted first, and their opener Kayde Surrey was lucky to survive two edges to slip that went down off the bowling of standin Captain Lachie Scales. Scales bowled with venom and had the batsmen on the back foot with a combination of nasty short deliveries and ones that kicked off a good length from the lively wicket.

Surrey normally makes the fielding side pay when he gets a life, however Scales trapped him LBW for 13 with one that jagged back.

Old Man Peter Scales was introduced to bowl up the hill and into the wind and soon got the ball swinging nicely.

He snared three wickets including the dangerous Clancy Ellett, courtesy of a fine diving catch at mid-off by Kane Hoskin.

Ellett played a gutsy innings, seeing off the Lachy Scales’ barrage to top-score with 38.

Spin was then the order of the day, with Alex Ritchie and Gregor Fraser forming a formidable leg-spin bowling combination.

They picked up two and three wickets respectively and kept the run rate to a minimum in doing so.

Micky Burrows also chimed in with five tight overs, while Joe Kelleher finished off the tail.

Richie Worcester finished on 30 not out from a marathon 117 balls after fighting hard all day for the Wanderers, seeing his

side to 144 from 59 overs.

That left 13 over in the day for Delatite to face.

Openers Mark O’Loughlan and Fraser started very well, the score rattling along to 0/30 after the first ten overs.

Disaster struck when Wanderer’s veteran Dean Fitzpatrick came on to bowl his left-arm in-swingers, Delatite losing two quick wickets to finish the day on 2/32.

Hopefully they can put in a good showing with the bat next Saturday and finish the season off with a win.

Delatite B Grade

THE Delatite B grade side registered a win in their last game for the season, however it was not in the manner they would have preferred.

Disappointingly Wangaratta Magpies also had a number of players preferring to be elsewhere and forfeited the game, an anti-climactic finish for B grade who, like A grade, will finish well outside of finals contention.

MANSFIELD’S Woolies Cricket Blast kids finished off their 2023/24 season on Monday evening at Lords with a BBQ and participation medals for all. After another year of strong growth, the Cricket Blast program aims to secure cricket’s future in Mansfield.