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Town remains divided over upcoming referendum pg Voices of Mansfield

IN three days, Australians will head to the polls to vote on one of the most significant referendums in contemporary history.

Questions around the Voice to Parliament have dominated media discourse, dinner conversations, work events and social catch-ups for the past six months.

So how will residents in the Mansfield Shire region vote?

When you stroll along Mansfield’s High Street it’s impossible not to notice Ink Bookshop.

BY HANNAH KENNELLY hkennelly@ nemedia.com.au

The brightly lit window is covered in multi-coloured book titles, boasting a wide array of fiction novels, children books and biographies.

In July a new decoration was added to the window – a bright orange Yes sign.

Store Owner Charlotte Lindsay decided to display the Yes decal after hearing

Indigenous author Thomas Mayo speak at the Sorrento Writers Festival in April.

“Thomas Mayo co-wrote the best-selling The Voice to Parliament handbook with journalist Kerry O’Brien,” Charlotte explained.

“The way he spoke about the Uluru statement and the Voice to Parliament was eloquent, succinct, calm and sensible, and also incredibly moving.

“When I was doing a window for NAIDOC week at the beginning of

July, highlighting all the indigenous books we have at Ink, I thought the Yes decal would be a wonderful and positive addition.

“Not just for the Voice but also for recognition of First Nations people generally, the writers and illustrators I stock in particular.”

Charlotte will be voting Yes on October 14 - a decision she describes as “fundamentally the right thing to do”.

“As an Anglo-Australian I am uncomfortable

speaking on behalf of First Nations people, but as a national electorate we have been asked to provide an answer to a very simple question: about whether we want to alter the constitution to allow a First Nations committee that will give advice, and only advice, to the government on issues that affect their own communities,” she said.

“Eighty per cent of Indigenous Australians support this [The Voice]

and it may not be a magic wand but I feel it is a step in the right direction and at the very least, an acknowledgement from the whole of our country that we support our First Nations people.”

Charlotte described the referendum as an “uncomplicated and unthreatening question”.

“Simply and basically, ‘Yes’, is a positive, hopeful and unifying word,” she said. “Yes is moving forward. No one stops you in your path.”

■ Continued page 2

HEAVY rain drenched Mansfield last week after weeks of dry weather and bushfire warnings. Read how the shire faired on P4-5. PHOTO: Samuel O’Brien

Listening to Mansfield’s voices

■ From page 1 Mansfield Yes Campaign Captain Peter Finney takes shifts at the town’s polling booth, handing out bright yellow pamphlets to early voters.

He hoped the Yes vote would lead to “greater recognition and equality for First Nations peoples”.

“We are being asked to make a simple change to our constitution, one that acknowledges Indigenous Australians and gives them a voice,” he said.

Peter said several people had “hurled abuse at him and other Mansfield Yes volunteers”

“Everyone is free to make their own decision,” he said.

“But if you are unsure, then find out more about this referendum.”

“It’s dividing our nation”

Mansfield No Campaign volunteer John Lithgow stands on the other side of Peter.

For John, the referendum continues to be a divisive topic.

“I think the overall debate around the Voice has divided the Australian community by race, and I just don’t think that’s appropriate,” he said.

John highlighted the atmosphere in Mansfield as particularly bitter.

“I’ve had a few people abuse me for having a position and I think that’s highly unreasonable,” he said.

“I think people want to express their views, but we need to be respectful about it.

“We should have discussions without being immediately labeled.”

John emphasised he had “no reservations about recognizing First Nations peoples in the constitution”.

“I would support recognition, however I just can’t support enshrining a Voice,” he said.

“I think we are going to see all these political elites take control and I think that’s fraught with danger.

“It undermines the principal of how this country operates.”

Mansfield resident and fellow No voter Ella McRae was also concerned about a potential change to the Australian Constitution.

“The information from the Australian Electoral Commission regarding a Yes or No vote for the referendum was confusing and didn’t really explain

what the constitutional change would be,” she said.

“We already have Indigenous representation in parliament, but those representatives are not being heard at the moment.”

Ella was critical of the referendum’s funding and “bureaucracies within”.

“The largest corporations and wealthiest banks within Australia are funding the Yes vote, so that really put me off voting yes,” she explained.

“Australia has so many underlying issues that need money –the cost of living crisis, housing crisis, road safety, the lack of high quality teachers, plus the pressure that is being applied to our farmers who provide our food bowl.

“We should be pushing funding and taxpayers’ money towards issues that impact the general public, not a small minority.

“I honestly don’t think a Yes vote is going to help Indigenous peoples at a grassroots level at all.

“It’s just going to make a few politicians and corporations a lot wealthier.”

Mistruths or messy bureaucracy?

MANSFIELD Yes Campaigner John McCombe spent last Thursday outside the town’s CWA building, chatting to both decided and undecided voters.

The retired teacher described the Yes Vote as “the sensible thing to do”.

“Personally I think voting Yes is showing First Nations peoples that we stand with them,” he said.

John believed the “misinformation and fear-mongering around the voice” was influenced by a lack of understanding.

“Unlike America, Australians schools don’t really teach the Constitution to students,” he said.

“I think if we did, we’d realise our Constitution was written in the horse and buggy days and desperately needs to be updated.

“If you inject enough mistruths and misleading statements into a debate then you are going to tap into people’s prejudices or worries.

“But the reality is the Voice is an advisory body that would advise the government on legislation concerning Indigenous Australians

“If they don’t like the advice, it won’t be implemented.”

Mansfield resident Pamela Dalgliesh has been following the referendum debate for many months.

She will vote No on October 14.

“There are already so many existing Indigenous voices that already speak to the government, so I’m worried this proposed body will just be adding another layer of bureaucracy,” she said

Pamela highlighted the work of the Coalition of Peaks – a representative body of more than 80 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders organisations and members who partnered with

the government on the Closing the Gap program.

While Pamela did not support an enshrined Voice to Parliament, she would vote for recognition for First Nations peoples.

“I would love to see healthcare and education outcomes improve for Indigenous Australians,” she said.

“But an enshrined voice in the Constitution is not the longterm answer because they [Indigenous people] would always be represented as the victim.

“There should be a time when that changes.

“I think we all just need to take the emotion out of it and stick to the facts.”

Closing the gap

DESPITE the polls predicting a win for the No Campaign, Aunty Geraldine Atkinson remained optimistic.

The former First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria co-chair and proud Bangerang and Wiradjuri woman has been a strong advocate of the Yes vote.

“I believe Australians ultimately want what’s best for Indigenous people,” Aunty Geraldine said.

“But the best way for Indigenous voices to be heard, is by Indigenous people being actively involved in decisions that impact their lives.

“The Voice presents an opportunity for us to close the gap and ensure Indigenous children have the same opportunities as anyone else.”

Aunty Geraldine referenced the “long-lasting effects of colonization” and their “profound impact on generations of Indigenous Australians”.

“We know that Indigenous Australians have the highest rate of incarceration and face numerous other disadvantages,” she said.

“I have siblings who unfortunately never reached the age I currently am.

“Voting yes will help us bridge those gaps.”

When asked what she would say to hesitant voters Aunty Geraldine paused.

“Voting yes will improve outcomes for Indigenous Australians and further reconciliation,” she said.

“It won’t divide us; it will actually bring us together.”

YES OR NO? On October 14, Australias will take to the polls for the nations’ first 21st Century referendum.

LESS BUREAUCRACY: Pamela Dalgliesh is supporting the No vote in Mansfield.

POLES ARE OPEN: Yes supporter Peter Finney outside Mansfield CWA.

PHOTOS: Hannah Kennelly

Shire’s crime rate continues slide

Police warn residents to keep safe as warmer weather sets in p

By SAMUEL O’BRIEN

CRIME is continuing to fall in Mansfield Shire - down 4.2 percent in the year to June 2023.

The quarterly data released by the Crime Statistics Agency showed that the crime rate still remains below last year’s, while the statewide average continues to climb.

Crime increased in Mansfield (163) and Woods Point (10) while decreasing in other localities such as Bonnie Doon (28), Jamieson (13) and Merrijig (10).

Criminal damage, obtaining benefit by deception and stealing from motor vehicles were on the rise while other thefts and breaches of family violence orders were down.

Mansfield Senior Sergeant Steve Carden said that while criminal damage was the highest category with 35 incidents, increases look worse due to the generally low crime rate in the community.

“Because we’ve got very low base numbers, it’s not hard to get those spikes,” he told the Courier.

“One that always comes along at this time of year is the damage to DEECA (the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action) property, specifically gates and locks, when they close the roads.

“Police, DEECA and Parks Vic meet once a month to share information about what’s occurring, where it’s occurring and organising joint patrols and also share intelligence sharing.”

“We’ve been able to follow up on people and actually catch of-

fenders who were doing these damages.”

Sn Sgt Carden commended the community on creating a place where crime is discouraged, especially with the ReStart program.

“We’ve got [ReStart program] members dedicated to be in the schools,” he said, referring to a support program for offenders on remand or who have received short sentences re-entering the community.

“We are trying to get that a holistic picture of not just what we want and what we’re seeing, but also what the kids are seeing.

“Their participation is a reflection of how community minded the young people in Mansfield are.

“The police always wander down the street here; they love getting coffee and talking to people.”

Looking forward, Sn Sgt Carden warned locals and visitors to be careful about alcohol both on and off the road.

“Typically what we find is people’s judgment decreases as alcohol goes through the system,” he said.

“We look at public order, particularly on the long weekends and holiday periods in the streets, in the licensed premises, out of the campgrounds, caravan parks and all that type of thing.

“If you are going to drink, drink in moderation.

“People talk about crime and they talk about road safety.

“A lot of actions of people in a motor car are criminal.

“People do go to jail.

“Recklessness and causing injuries to people is a criminal offense as well as a traffic offence.”

Police are also planning more uniformed patrols of the roads in the warmer months, keeping an eye out for dangerous driving as the road toll continues to climb.

“Highway Patrol are always focused on traffic and doing lots of operations,” Sn Sgt Carden said.

“General duty police officers are always focused on traffic but we don’t do as many operations as Highway Patrol.

“Over the summer period we’re increasing those and doing specific operations

“They’ll be around distracted drivers, alcohol and drug use and speed.

“People just underestimate distraction, whether it’s glancing down at your phone to do a text or glancing at something else and not paying attention.

“There’s so many accidents that are caused by just a car just drifting just over the centre line in just a moment of inattention.”

Compared to other regions, Mansfield has performed very well, with only the Alpine Shire having a larger reduction in criminal incidents in the year of all surrounding areas.

The rate of statewide recorded offences increased, 5.7 per cent to 7,494.4 per 100,000 Victorians in the last 12 months, while the number of offences increased 7.9 percent to 506,408.

All offence categories increased in the last 12 months, except for the category that captured Breach of Chief Health Officer offences.

Property and deception offences had the largest increase in the last 12 months, up by 36,767 or 15.6 per cent to 272,790.

This remains below the record peak of 319,951 offences in 2016 and below pre-COVID numbers of 303,910.

CSA Chief Statistician Fiona Dowsley said that “increases in acquisitive offence types, particularly theft offences, are a major contributor to the upward trends observed in recorded crime measures in the last 12 months”.

“Despite an increase in theft offence types across all recorded crime measures these numbers remain below pre-pandemic peaks recorded in 2020” Ms Dowsley said.

The state opposition has used the statistics to blame the government for not doing enough to address crime.

Shadow Minister for Police and Crime Prevention, Brad Battin, said: “The result of Labor cutting crime prevention initiatives and not replacing Police at the rate they are leaving is that many crime categories are at decade highs and are continuing to rise”.

“Under the Labor Government, Victoria is less safe.

“Premier Jacinta Allan must do something about the rate of rising crime in Victoria so Victorians are safer and get the justice they deserve.”

7 DAY WEATHER FORECAST

Wednesday: Sunny

Temperature: 3-23

Thursday: Shower increasing

Temperature: 9-22

Friday: Shower or two

Temperature: 4-16

Saturday: Showers

Temperature: 6-16

Sunday: Shower increasing

Temperature: 3-16

Monday: Partly cloudy

Temperature: 5-13

Tuesday: Sunny

Temperature: 3-19

MANSFIELD RAINFALL

Week to 9am Monday - 139.6mm

Month Total (October 2023) - 139.6mm

Month Total (October 2022) - 160.8mm

YTD Total - 605.3mm

Total (2022) - 977.20mm

Total (2021) - 789.9mm

Total (2020) - 746.6mm

LAKE EILDON LEVELS

Readings as at 9am Monday

This week 289.02m full or 100.5% of capacity 12cm above full supply level

Inflow: 14,000 megalitres per day

Release: 17,000 megalitres per day

Details courtesy of Goulburn Murray Water

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Downpour sweeps North East East

By HANNAH KENNELLY and SAMUEL O’BRIEN

HEAVY rain swept the High Country last week just days after experts warned communities to prepare for a hot bushfire-risk summer.

Vic Emergency issued a moderate flood warning to the Mansfield Shire region on Wednesday, cautioning residents to avoid flooded areas and remain alert.

In the 24 hours to 5 am

Wednesday, October 4, rainfall totals of up to 140 mm were observed across the Goulburn River catchment.

The sudden onslaught of rain quickly soaked the soil and waters began to rise around the shire.

Both Vic Roads and Mansfield Shire Council closed several roads, reduced speed limits and encouraged residents to resist driving through floodwaters.

Mayor Cr James Tehan reminded those travelling to remain alert.

“Please obey road signage and drive to the conditions,” he said in a statement.

Beyond the Mansfield Shire, there were several closures on the Maroondah Highway between Cathkin and Molesworth.

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Published by Hartley Higgins for North East Media Pty Ltd, 98 High Street, Mansfield, 3724.

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Copyright: All advertising and editorial content of this issue is the copyright of North East Media Pty Ltd and cannot be used without the company’s permission.

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Hannah

Sand bags were also available for pick up from the Mansfield SES unit at their station on the Maroondah Highway.

Kevington, Macs Cove, Howqua Inlet, Piries, Howqua, Gaffneys Creek, Woods Point and Jamieson experienced unplanned power outages on

Wednesday afternoon according to AusNet’s outage tracker, with power restored in the evening.

Additionally, Mt Buller experienced overnight snow, waking up to a dusting of white last Thursday morning as temperatures dropped.

Damage across the Shire

WINEMAKER John Eason is well-versed in the consequences of wet weather.

His Mount Terrible winery three kilometres east of Jamieson observed nearly 204 millilitres of rain across 36 hours overnight into Wednesday.

“I checked and the rainfall we’ve received here has been higher than the 1993 floods,” Mr Eason explained.

“The water is starting to subside now but on Wednesday the vineyard was partially underwater.”

However John confirmed last week’s floodwaters would “hopefully have little effect on vine growth”.

“When I was planting the vineyard 22 years ago, I chose water tolerant rootstocks for the low-lying areas,” he said

“Looking back, that was a very good call.”

Footage of a floodwater rescue from Tuesday night was also released last Wednesday, with police reminding people to take care.

Alexandra Police were called to reports of a man who needed assistance in floodwaters in Alexandra on Tuesday, October 3.

It is believed the man was on a tractor attempting to rescue cattle around 8:35pm when he got into difficulty and was surrounded by water.

Victoria Police Search and Rescue Squad – Swift Water Rescue Team were able to successfully rescue the man.

The 43-year-old Alexandra man was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Impacts assessed

AS the day drew to a close and the floodwaters began receding, the full impact of the wet weather was felt.

As the water flowed into Lake Eildon, the dam began to fill quickly and Goulburn Murray Water (GMW) began increasing releases to manage the torrent. The dam filled to beyond 100 per cent capacity as the week progressed, with output reaching 17,000 ML per day.

The downstream impacts are still being felt across the North East and beyond, with the Lake Eildon releases flowing through Seymour and Shepparton. Up north, the convergence of the Ovens and King rivers at Wangaratta prompted extensive preparation as the floodwater passed through the town.

The Courier is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council.

If you believe the standards may have been breached, you may approach the Courier itself or contact the council by email at info@presscouncil.org.au or by phone on (02) 9261 1930.

Member

Edward Higgins (DIRECTOR) Terry Friel (SENIOR JOURNALIST)

Leah Scott (ADVERTISING MANAGER/ BRANCH MANAGER)

Kennelly (JOURNALIST)

Emma Oliver (JOURNALIST) Pam Zierk-Mahoney (JOURNALIST)

Samuel O’Brien (JOURNALIST)

TAKE CARE: Road signs instructed drivers to remain alert in the wet conditions.

PHOTO: Hannah Kennelly

ALMIGHTY SPLASH: A truck drives through water on MansfieldWoods Point Rd.

PHOTO: Samuel O’Brien

FLOODED: Water floods over Greenvale Lane, Mansfield.

Gippsland was hit particularly badly as the flow of water prompted the evacuation of towns in the region.

Having just been hit by damaging bushfires the weekend before, towns including Bellbird Corner, Mewburn Park, Newry, Riverslea, Tinamba and Tinamba West were declared “unsafe to return” on Thursday.

While the floodwaters have receded in Mansfield, the damage to roads across the region is yet to be fully assessed, with road repair advocates continually pointing to wet weather events like last week’s

deluge as catalysts for extensive damage.

Many warm-weather works were also underway or almost complete with recent rain causing the deterioration of repaired sections of highways and main roads.

Drivers are warned to take care as VicRoads assesses and repairs damage.

A stern warning

ROS Fauvel, controller of the Mansfield SES group, was out in action on Wednesday supporting the local community.

The swift change from

dry to wet weather caught many people by surprise and many were not as prepared as previous flooding instances.

“The SES was providing sandbags,” she said.

“Because [the rain] came so quickly, it wasn’t the same as the last big one where everyone got themselves organised and came and got sandbags.

“This time we were doing more filling and laying of sandbags to houses hat basically had water coming pretty close, if not up to them already.”

Ros attributed the lack of preparation to a degree of complacency about the

potential for bad wet weather.

“The forecast said we could get a lot of rain in a short period of time,” she said.

“Flash flooding happens [in that weather] regardless and the creeks and rivers all came up.”

Jamieson was a point of focus for the SES as crews worked to keep houses and businesses out of the rising waters.

“The caravan park was affected as were many houses,” she said.

“Jamieson is always our biggest flood risk area.”

After Wednesday, the high winds created other risks that the SES had to respond to.

“Trees started falling down; we haven’t had that for a while,” Ros said.

“There were quite a few over roads at all times of the day which kept us busy.”

Ros said there was much to learn from last week’s flooding.

“The biggest advice would be to keep listening out for the Bureau of Meteorology early warnings, even though they don’t always eventuate,” she said.

“They can, and in this case they did.”

She encouraged residents to prepare a Go Bag to be ready to leave their homes when instructed.

“This is a really good time of year, regardless of whether its floods or fire season coming up, to start getting emergency family emergency plans and an emergency bag organised,” she said.

“They contain the most important things like a USB with documents on it, phone chargers and all those medicines and the sorts of things that, if you had to get out in a hurry, you would want to have.

“Whatever the emergency, you’ve at least got a bag that is mostly ready to go.

“That’s a really big one, especially with the season that they are predicting and what we’ve seen already with the fires in Gippsland.

“We need to be thinking about our emergency plans.”

HIGHER

The Jamieson River on Wednesday.

PHOTO: John Eason

SNOW

While it was raining in Mansfield, a dusting of snow coated Mt Buller, quickly melting on Thursday morning.

WET WALK: Bontanic Gardens got a soaking.

PHOTO: Hannah Kennelly

PHOTO: Hannah Kennelly

Way Back Wednesday - a look back at what was making news 15 years ago this week.

THE bushfire season is highly likely to begin one month earlier this year due to a shortage of rain across Victoria, escalating the probability of a hectic season for firefighters.

A seasonal bushfire assessment release by the bushfire cooperative research centre last week, has predicted the early start to the season, and normal to above-normal fire potential in the high country.

In sport, Michael Bullen has taken up the reins as president of the Mansfield and District Race Club following it annual general meeting last week.

Mr Bullen has lived in Mansfield for seven years and has 30 years experience in managing Royal Agricultural Societies in Melbourne and Sydney.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

See through the confusion

AFTER four years in the Northern Territory working with Indigenous Australians in education on communities and another five years in the Northern Territory at a high security prison, I witnessed a disproportionate number of Indigenous inmates (over 80 per cent) and major gaps in education and health.

I was teaching on a remote community when the 1992 High Court Mabo decision was passed. There was a sense of relief as people celebrated a decision recognising that our country was occupied before the British arrived.

Another positive landmark decision was the 1967 referendum recognising Indigenous Australians as citizens of Australia. Over 90 per cent of Australians voted YES.

This current referendum is a chance to move forward once again as a nation. The Voice to Parliament has 80 percent support from Indigenous Australians.

Let’s join with Indigenous Australians harmoniously - the longest continuing culture in the world.

A YES vote means Indigenous Australians have an advisory

body (not law-making) to help inform the government and parliament on smart choices in relation to their own people. It will also save government money by managing support agencies that work and are less likely to be dismantled or mismanaged.

Do we want to reflect on ourselves and be viewed internationally as a fearful nation not willing to support and give our First Nations People a fair go?

A YES vote will have no adverse impact on our lives and will improve the outcomes for our Indigenous Australians bridging some major gaps.

See through the confusion, misinformation, and fear circulating and…vote YES.

Chris Johnstone, Mansfield

Show generosity of Aussie spirit

AS we consider whether to vote Yes or No in the referendum on October 14, we do well to ignore the myriad largely irrelevant complications raised by the naysayers and focus, rather, on the fact that a widely consultative process, over many years, led to the framing of the Uluru Statement from the Heart which invites all Australians to give our First Peoples a constitutionally guaranteed voice on matters affecting them. It’s

LOW RAIN PROMPTS EARLY SEASON: Authorities are bracing for an early start to the fire danger period, with the environment already dry from a lack of spring rain.

A NEW FACE: Michael Bullen will bring new vigiour to the club.

not a Canberra bubble invention. It’s not an elites thing. It’s not the artifice of indigenous academics.

It’s simple really. It’s a warm invitation to walk with our First Peoples on a journey seeking true equality at last. It’s looking forward, not dwelling on the past. It is recognition of the fact that policies and programs work better when people have a say in their development and implementation. An upside for our Indigenous fellow citizens. And no downsides for the rest of us.

We have come a long way since the good citizens of 1924 celebrated Hume and Hovell’s 1824 exploits by inscribing a commemorative obelisk with: “They blazed the track that we might inherit the land”. It’s time to listen to the disinherited, the vast majority of whom support the Uluru Statement from the Heart.

Jeremy Madin, Merrijig

time to sing out for a Voice

There’s a tangible aspect to the Voice that holds great potential for this country to enjoy. Who would have thought that descendants of the oppressed would extend an invitation to finally unite us all?

What decisions on Indige-

LETTERS to the editor must be signed with the full name, address and contact telephone number of the author provided. Letters under 250 words are preferred and we reserve the right to edit letters to fit in with space requirements. Nom de plumes will only be published at the editor’s discretion. Opinions expressed are not necessarily shared by the Courier.

nous affairs so far made by new arrivals to the land have truly worked?

Here is the opportunity to just listen to the folk who are affected by our new world lifestyle.

Social media may disagreebut how much of this can one genuinely trust? To me it makes sense to change what’s not working effectively into something which might just do so.

Here are reasons to vote yes that extend beyond even these important matters:

The Uluru Statement from the Heart - its sincerity.

A vast majority of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders support and encourage it as an act of unity and improvement for their lives.

The corollary is that all of us will benefit now and into the future.

The Voice far from being another layer of bureaucracy will challenge officialdom to step up to pursue appropriate spending outcomes.

We have the poorest standard of Indigenous recognition of all our allied nations.

Australia’s reputation matters - on so many levels.

I choose to seek maturity, fairness and unity following a positive outcome. Yes gives solutions.

John Houston, Mansfield

Fax: (03) 5775 1580

Post: Letters to the Editor Mansfield Courier, 98 High St, Mansfield 3722.

Slow down at kangaroo hot spots

Major Council plan on track

MANSFIELD Shire Council recently received and endorsed the progress report for the Council Plan 2021-2025 at the latest Council meeting, with councillors pleased to see the progress made against the Plan’s strategic objectives over the last year.

The Plan is a key strategic document used to guide Council’s decision-making over the four-year term and articulates the role Council will play in leading, supporting and advocating for the best possible outcomes for Mansfield Shire.

The Council Plan is focused around three themes: A Connected and Healthy Community, Vibrant Liveability, and A Trusted, Effective and Efficient Council.

Within each of these themes, the Plan identifies strategic objectives and specific initiatives that Council will focus on to achieve its vision for the community.

Mayor James Tehan said in a statement this progress report highlights how much work has been done in this period.

“It’s great to see the organisation is on track with the majority of the strategic directives within the Plan,” he said.

“Of particular note are the highlighted elements that have been delivered to date.”

Some of these highlights include:

Connected and Healthy Community  Continued successful

collaboration with Mansfield District Hospital on the Respond program for children’s health and delivery of the fresh food drive and soup for schools programs in 2022-23.

 Commencement of the Jump Start program in collaboration with Supported Playgroup, a popular initiative enjoyed by many local families.

 Award of ongoing funding, and commencement of the Social Inclusion Action Group project to address isolation and improve mental health.

 Continuation of the work of Maternal and Child Health (MCH) and Integrated Family Services in Family Violence prevention.

 Completion of a new playground by the Merton community in collaboration with Council Vibrant Liveability

 Completion of projects to enhance liveability such as upgrading streetscapes and recreational open spaces across the Shire, including Bonnie Doon BBQ and shelter, Installation of shade sails at Botanic Park, purchase of the Police Paddock in Jamieson and completion of the Goughs Bay picnic shelter.

 The Mansfield Library refurbishment project was completed and officially opened, with new opening hours implemented in response to community feedback.

Have fun at the Cup - safely

THE Mansfield District Race Club and the Transport Accident Commission have joined forces to make sure people who want to attend the the Marks IGA Melbourne Cup Day Picnic Races can do so safely.

So, leave your car at home and take the bus.

Free shuttle buses will run from the bus stop on the Highett Street side of the Courthouse.

In addition to the town shuttlebus between 11.00am and 5.00pm, there will be a service from Bonnie Doon, Merrijig and Gough’s Bay.

The Bonnie Doon bus will depart from the Bonnie Doon Hotel at 10.30am and return from the racecourse main gate at 5.00pm.

Merrijig residents can board the bus at the Merrijig Motor Inn at 10.30am and return at 5.00pm.

A Gough’s Bay bus will leave the Gough’s Bay General Store at 10.30am and 11.30 am, returning from the racecourse at 4.30pm and 5.30pm.

While bookings are not required for the town shuttlebus, they are essential for all other services. To secure your seats please email events@mansfiel-

draces.com.au and indicate the number you require.

A Safe Travel grant from the TAC has assisted to provide the bus services.

MDRC President Leanne Backwell said the assistance from the TAC via Country Racing Victoria is greatly appreciated, as it supports the Club’s mission of safe travel and the avoidance of drink driving.

“The MDRC is committed to safe travel to and from the racecourse. We encourage patrons from the town and surrounds to book now to take advantage of free and safe transport to fabulous day of picnic racing,” she says.

 Delivery and support to key events such as the Mansfield Pottery Festival, Horsepower in the High Country, Stock Dog Spectacular and inaugural Mansfield Readers and Writers’ Festival.

 Delivery of prioritised road, drainage, and footpath upgrades across the Shire.

A Trusted, Effective and Efficient Council

 Advocacy for the community at all levels of government has continued, resulting in successful project submissions such as: $10 million IMPACT Route road upgrade funding, VicHealth Local Government Partnership, pioneering Council for Social Inclusion Action Groups with ongoing funding and $1.5 million for the

Goughs Bay Boat Club Redevelopment.

 Planning System funding of $888,000 for implementation of new on-line system as part of a collaborative digital project with three neighbouring Councils.

 Funding of $350,000 to establish an Infrastructure Plan to support the growth of Mansfield Township and enable collection of development contributions.

 Completion of HVAR (Heavy Vehicle Alternate Route) Stage 1 and commencement of HVAR Stage 2 works.

The full progress report can be viewed on the Mansfield Shire Council website by visiting the September council meeting agenda.

ENJOY THE RACE: Free shuttle buses will ferry patrons to the Cup Day races from Mansfield, Bonnie Doon, Gough’s Bay and Merrijig.

Historical society working bee

AS the Mansfield Historical Society gears up for construction to begin on the heritage museum, members from the group dedicated their Sunday to a working bee in preparation.

The society was given access to the original”‘super shed’” in the station precinct, with committee members cleaning down

the facility, ready to store some of the shire’s historical items.

It’s all part of a busy month for the society, with their fundraising event “Elizabeth Taylor’s Greatest Love Affair with Jewels” taking place this Saturday at the Mansfield Golf Club, with tickets now reduced to $25 for the talk and refreshments.

VOLUNTEER: Russell Jones spent the day up a ladder removing and repairing panels to make the space suitable for storing the shire’s historical relics.

HARD WORK: Gerri Allan (right) was a dab hand at removing the decades of phosphorus that had built up on the fertilser shed’s walls.

Celebrations for Mansfield’s seniors

LAST week, the Mansfield community celebrated the Victorian Seniors Festival with a full range of events.

Running from October 1 to 8, the line-up of events and activities included clay play workshops, pilates, yoga, and giveaways at The Little Shop of Good Reads, with the highlight - a Seniors Ball - held at the Mansfield Golf Club on the Thursday.

Mayor Cr James Tehan said it was great to see council’s community health and wellbeing and tourism and events teams combining to provide a stimulating, engaging and fun line up of events.

“This festival helps our seniors remain engaged and connected within the community, and the funding enables Council to cover the cost of most of the events and to subsidise others so that they are affordable for everyone to participate,” he said.

“Our seniors have so much to share with us, so it’s great we can thank them with a week of activities for this year’s Seniors Festival.”

BIRD IN THE HAND: The Mad Potters represented by Lynn Taylor and Karen Pirie ran two free pottery classes on the Friday as part of the Seniors Festival. Held in the drama room at the Recreation Reserve Hall, a total fo 19 attendees were given the opportunity to get their hands on some clay and make some pinch pot birds with other like-minded creatives. Pictured are Jenny Nugent and Margaret Wilson making their birds.

HANDS UP FOR PILATES:

Barefoot Pilates Studio hosted two free sessions of pilates over the week.

Pictured are Laura Bainger, Barefoot Studio Pilates instructor with Ken Hall, Rosemary Tyrrell, Brian Taylor, Susan Hill, Ann Maree Playfair, Susan Kinloch, Peter Wallace and Pam Wallace.

Your Council - Your News mansfield

Council Meetings

The upcoming scheduled Council meeting is Tuesday 17 October 2023 at 5pm and will be held online. Go to the events section on our website for information about how to observe the meeting or contact Customer Service on 5775 8555.

Additional Meeting of Council

PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that an additional meeting of the Mansfield Shire Council will be held on Tuesday 27 October 2023 at 3.00pm online and can be watched live on our YouTube channel.

Business to be

Consider the Annual Report

Such other business as determined by the unanimous decision of the Council.

Engage with Us!

For more information and to share your feedback visit

Community Grants Policy

Community members are invited to have their say and on Council's new Community Grants Policy. The Community Grants Policy outlines Council's commitment to act with integrity, accountability, impartiality, transparency and in the interests of the community when granting funds.

The intent of this policy is to provide clarity about how Council will fulfil the distribution of funding through grants programs is in accordance with the Local Government Act 2020 Consultation is open until

Planning a Burn-Off?

Register your burn-off on private land at the Fire Permits Victoria website. It’s quick, easy and there are no wait times, and ensures emergency services can verify the fire is a planned burn if calls are received to report it as an actual fire.

Kirsten Alexander, Chief Executive Officer

A VERITABLE FLOCK: The morning session of the pinch pot bird making proved to be a fruitful exercise for all participants (pictured).

TAKE HOME PACK: The Little Shop of Good Reads was offering free gift bags for seniors all week at their Curia Street location, with volunteers Bev Cios and Gwen Gray confirming that the shop is open from 10am Wednesday to Saturday every week.

High Street Car Park

The new High Street car park design is now available for review following community consultation undertaken in 2022 over options for car park access and configuration. The final design has been created based on the community feedback received as part of this process.

The design includes 84 parking spaces with 2 spaces allocated for disabled parking and car spaces measuring at 2.6m wide x 5.4m long. The final car park design is available for community feedback until

Work With Us

Full advertisements and position descriptions are available on our website.

Management Accountant

Youth Project Officer Disaster Recovery

Youth Program Officer

Financial Counsellor

mansfield.vic.gov.au

: Cr James Tehan (Mayor), Cr Steve Rabie (Deputy Mayor), Cr Paul Sladdin, Cr Mark Holcombe, Cr Rohan Webb

Flexible barriers helping reduce serious injuries

By STEVE KELLY

FLEXIBLE safety barriers along the Hume Freeway have saved lives with the number of fatalities and serious collisions

FALLING 35 per cent since their installation in October 2019.

Historical data between 2002 and 2019 show 35.4 serious or fatal crashes on the freeway occurred on average each year compared to 23 in the 2020 to 2022 data period.

The Victorian Government spent $89 million to install around 980km of new, flexible safety barriers on the Hume Freeway from Melbourne’s M80 ring road to the NSW border after it was identified as one of the highest-risk roads in the state.

Data shows a decline in head-on and run-off-road accidents along the Hume Freeway that account for half of Victoria’s total road deaths.

Crash data on the freeway since 2002 shows a lower number of serious injuries in recent years with the average annual figure of 20 serious injuries, well below the 29 long-term serious-injury average (2002-2019).

The average number of other injuries over the last three years (2020-

2022) is 27 compared to the longterm average of 37.

The average number of fatalities on the Hume Freeway (2002-2019) has been four per year, with the last three years involving three per year off the back of zero in 2019 - the year the barriers were installed.

The government reported that the barriers work by absorbing much of the force in a collision, reducing the impact to passengers and allowing the vehicle to come to a gradual standstill.

Victoria Police Eastern Region Division 4 Highway Patrol Senior Sergeant David Gillespie, who has been to the scenes of several serious and fatal collisions, believes the flexible safety barriers save lives and reduce the number of injuries resulting from road crash trauma.

“The number of crashes hasn’t necessarily changed over the years, but what has changed is the number of injuries and fatalities,” Sen Sgt Gillespie said.

“It has peaked in the last 12 months with more fatalities on the Hume Freeway from Thomastown to Wodonga compared to a number of years prior, but the number of in-

What’s On

jury collisions has reduced.

“The reason for that is vehicles are impacting the wire rope barriers and not the trees, shrubs, or passing through the centre median strip into oncoming traffic.

“They (wire rope barriers) are controversial and they’re known by

some as the cheese-cutters, which is a name labelled in association with motorcyclists, but in my experience I am yet to see a motorcyclist impact wire rope barriers and be hurt.

“Yes it would be scary skidding along the road and coming towards wire rope barriers but I’ve seen the

result of a motorcyclist skidding along the road and head-butting a tree and that was life ending.”

A Department of Transport and Planning spokesperson said road safety is always their number one priority, and it’s a responsibility they take very seriously.

“Life-saving infrastructure such as flexible safety barriers helps to prevent head-on and run-off-road collisions - the most common cause of death on Victorian roads,” she said.

“Since the completed installation of centreline and left-hand side flexible safety barriers along the Hume Freeway in October 2019, we’ve seen a significant reduction in the number of accidents on this road.

“Flexible safety barriers are the most effective way of preventing crashes on high speed roads or reducing the severity of injuries.”

There was a dip in the number of crashes in 2020 which could have been due to less traffic on the roads as a result of border closures and lockdown restrictions, which could have impacted overall statistics.

SERIOUS CRASHES DROP: The number of serious or fatal collisions on the Hume Freeway has decreased by 35 per cent on average since the installation of flexible safety barriers in October 2019.

BSTEVEKELLY

From sunrise to sundown, Linden runs to raise funds for MS

IN a massive feat of endurance, Melbournebased Linden Tolhurst will be running from Tallarook to Mansfield in an epic 121 kilometre journey to raise funds and awareness for people living with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Hitting the gravel of the Great Victorian Rail Trail and heading off in the dark, Linden will be leaving Tallarook Pool at 4am on Saturday October 28

He aims to cover 30 kilometres every four hours, allowing himself just one hour reprieve to stop, rest and rehydrate.

And quite possibly weep.

The run holds personal significance for Linden, whose partner Prue was diagnosed with MS in 2018.

He is hoping to raise over $3500 for MS Plus to contribute to the work the organisation does providing support networks and specialists nurses to assist those living with MS.

Linden envisages the run will take 17 hours, completing the final stretch as the sun begins to set on the High Country.

The idea has been almost a year in the making, with Linden putting in the hard yards to get his body and mind into peak physical condition to tackle the challenge.

Breaking up the training, Linden has run on gravel and asphalt, on flat and

BY EMMA OLIVER eoliver@ nemedia.com.au

undulating terrain, he’s hit dirt trails and completed marathons in the build-up.

“In July, I ran a marathon as part of the You Yangs Trail Running Festival which offers up (in running terminology) more ‘technical’ trails so it’s all about foot placement,” he said.

And more recently he undertook a 55 kilometre run - his longest yet - in preparation.

“It’s not practical to train up to the distance I’m planning to cover, as it just increases the injury risk,” he said.

In May 2022 - preceding his fundraising commitment and serving as a source of inspiration - Linden took part in the O’Keefe Challenge, which weaves its way through bushland, open fields, farms near Heathcote and past Lake Eppalock.

“It’s very important to mix up training, running on a variety of surfaces and at different elevations,” Linden confirmed.

“Otherwise you get very good at running long distance on a flat surface, and then you throw in a bit of elevation and your whole strategy falls apart.”

Linden spoke to local

running coach Liam Delany who gave him some valuable insights on the local rail trail, and its quality and overall stability.

“He was very generous with his time and knowledge and has helped to build my confidence heading into the challenge,” said Linden.

Which has been necessary, as Linden was hit a curve-ball at the start of last month.

“Everything was progressing smoothly and then I came down with a bout of pneumonia, which effectively put the brakes on my training,” he said.

“It’s been a bit of a struggle as I need my lungs.

“However as I’m at the business end of the campaign, I have just had to get back out there and run.”

Which he did, opting for a more measured half marathon in Berwick in mid-September, after taking a week off to recover.

“It was thoroughly unpleasant, but that’s part of why I’m doing this run, to really push myself and challenge my comfort zone,” he said.

Linden admits an incentive to undertake the challenge was to understand how his partner Prue feels on a daily basis living with MS.

“With running you get tired and fatigued,” said Linden.

“You might experience leg pain and feel disoriented.

“This is a way for me to experience at some level what it’s like for Prue.

“For Prue this is her every day.

“For me this is just one

day, but this is a way for me to say that I am in this with her,” he said.

Linden was quick to reiterate that the challenge however is not about him.

“It’s about raising money and awareness of the invaluable work that MS Plus does,” he said.

Despite being a ‘hobby’ runner since his teens, Linden has never attempted such an ambitious distance and is conscientious of not letting his supporters down.

“I’m really hopeful that I will get it done in one day,” he said.

With an eight-strong support crew to help him reach his goal, Linden has broken the run into achievable milestones with first aid stations set up at strategic points along the trail.

“When I hit the Bonnie Doon Bridge, I also have three friends and two representatives from MS Plus who will join me for the final 21 kilometre stretch, providing that additional moral support,” Linden said.

“I wouldn’t be able to do this without the help of my family, friends and incredibly supportive partner Prue.

“They’ve donated their time, and their energy and their money to this cause, and I just want to say ‘thank you’.

“And now all I want to do is get out there and start running.”

If you would like to support Linden’s run and donate to MS Plus, you can via https://www.doitforms. org.au/fundraisers/ lindentolhurst

RUNNING FOR A GREAT CAUSE: Linden Tolhurst with his partner Prue Hull and son Ryder.

It’s about raising money and awareness of the invaluable work that MS Plus does.

- LINDEN TOLHURST

Postcards exhibit gets stamp of approval

By HANNAH KENNELLY

ASPIRING artists gathered at the Produce Store on recently to celebrate Arts Mansfield’s annual Postcards exhibition.

Initiated in 2017, Postcards invited the community to pick up a canvas and create an artwork in whatever medium or style they wish and submit it for auction.

Arts Mansfield President Gill Belle was incredibly impressed by the diversity of entries this year.

“I think they get better and better every year,” she laughed.

“It’s so exciting hanging the exhibition, seeing what everyone has delivered for the first time.”

This year, Arts Mansfield received 57 entries of varying styles and themes, from entrants of all ages and abilities.

All pieces are available for purchase in a silent auction and the general public is also invited to vote on their favourite piece.

The artist with the most votes wins a $200 cash prize.

The works are on display until Sunday, October 22 at the Mansfield Produce Store.

Council acts on kinder report

MANSFIELD Shire Council will not proceed with a full Central Registration and Enrolment Scheme (CRES) for kindergartens.

The Council said it reached the decision after listening to community and stakeholder feedback from a study exploring the feasibility of a CRES for Mansfield’s four kindergartens.

Operating costs and cost recovery were essential factors in determining feasibility for

a CRES,” a Council spokesperson said in a statement

“ The administrative grant provided to operate this scheme would not cover the cost of delivery, necessitating charging families and being an ongoing cost to Council.

“Feedback also indicated some concerns that having a centralized registration and enrolment service would impact on the autonomy of the individual service providers.

While the report’s findings indicated there was “no support for a full CRES model in Mansfield Shire”, it did identify several areas for improvement.

The following recommendations were made:

 Registration details to be shared with the Council’s Maternal Child Health service to cross reference with the Child Development Information System database.

 Establishment of a page

on the Council’s website with kindergarten information including fees, subsidies, starting age, timeframes, and benefits of two years of kindergarten, and including links to each service in Mansfield  Engage kindergartens and key stakeholders in the Mansfield Early Years Educators Network.

Community Health and Wellbeing Executive Manager Nola Bales, said in a

statement that although the Council is not directly involved in kindergarten service delivery it has a strong commitment to early years planning and advocacy.

“Taking these steps will enhance the collaborative relationships between Council, key stakeholders, and early years providers within the Shire, supporting the transition to kindergarten and reducing barriers to education,” she said.

“It will also increase support for families, and provide a key information point, clearer options and details for families on programs, fees, starting age, timeframes, and benefits.” Recommendations will be implemented in the coming months.

For more information contact Council’s community health and Wellbeing Team at council@mansfield. vic.gov.au.

PICTURESQUE POSTCARDS: Mansfield Arts recieved 57 entries for their auction.

Get ready now for harsh fire season

AS Victoria’s weather begins to warm and we edge closer to an earlier fire season, the CFA’s message to those in highrisk bushfire areas is clear – prepare your property. Now.

Victoria can expect a warmer spring, contributing to higher fire risk in parts of the state this season, according to the latest Spring Seasonal Outlook.

There are a number of simple tasks people can complete to reduce their risk this season, and now is the time to start taking action.

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said crews right across the state are making every effort to prepare for this year’s fire season, but they need a collective community effort to reduce bushfire risk.

“Victoria is one of the most bushfireprone areas in the world, so it’s vital for everyone to plan ahead,” he said in a statement.

“All it takes is some basic maintenance such as clearing your gutters, picking up loose leaves and twigs, pruning tree branches so they aren’t overhanging the roof of your property, or even just keeping your lawn under 10cm tall.

“High rainfall and moisture levels over the past 12 months will have led to vegetation growth on private properties, so it’s important to maintain your property through spring and into fire season.”

Officer Heffernan also encouraged everyone to sit down with your family or household to discuss and practice their bushfire survival plan together.

“The CFA has all the information you need on our website to create a clear bushfire plan with your loved ones,” he said.

“If you already have one, blow the dust off it and go over it with your family . Practicing your bushfire survival plan could save your family’s life.”

Victorians can learn more about how to prepare their property at www.cfa.vic.gov. au/prepare, and for more about bushfire survival plan, visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au/ bushfireplan.

Take the following actions to prepare yourself and your property:

 Move your winter woodpile away from the house or sheds.

 Prune tree branches so they are not overhanging the roof or touching walls.

 Clear your gutters.

 Keep grass shorter than 10 centimetres.

 Remove leaves and twigs from around your property.

 Test anything that is part of your fire plan such as sprinklers, pumps and generators.

 The quickest and easiest way to register your burn-off is by using the Fire Permits Victoria website at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au/notify, or call ESTA on 1800 688 511.

 Make sure your household has a Bushfire Survival Plan. Find out how at www.cfa.vic.gov.au/bushfireplan.

Marking 20 years of Historic Huts vital work

By LYNN ELDER

PRESERVING the legacy of the High Country huts is a passion for the many hard-working volunteers who will share their knowledge and skills at the 20th anniversary of the Victorian High Country Huts Association (VHCHA) at the Mansfield Showgrounds on Saturday, October 28.

This unique free event is an opportunity to learn more about the work to maintain the iconic high country huts and how to get involved, whether as a volunteer or as a member to support the association.

VHCHA member and one of the event organisers Shez Tedford, who lives near Bright, became a passionate advocate after she saw her first hut in 2000.

“We were taken up to Mount Stirling via the Howqua Gap Track and our first stop was at the Howqua Gap Hut,” she recalls.

“I was so taken with this tiny rustic hut I was keen to find out more and to learn of the history and culture of these amazing huts,” Shez said.

She discovered the huts association and joined in 2015.

“I became a huts’ maintenance officer as I wanted to be more involved,” said Shez.

Since joining, she has had various stints on and off the committee and describes her involvement as “such a rewarding hobby.”

The VHCHA was founded in February 2003 in response to the destructive bushfires that swept through the state’s high country in January 2003.

Sadly, several of the high country’s historically significant huts were destroyed due to the devastating fires.

From humble beginnings, the association has grown to become a powerful “voice for the huts’

and, for the past 20 years, has been dedicated to the conservation, maintenance, rebuild and restoration to protect this vital part of Victoria’s high country heritage and culture.

According to Shez, the 20th anniversary event is an opportunity to acknowledge and reflect on the incredible preservation work achieved to protect and preserve the historically significant huts.

Everyone is welcome to join with VHCHA members as they invite you all to join them to “celebrate all things huts”.

The day will run from 10am to 4pm with displays in the Ed Harris Pavilion at the Mansfield showgrounds.

Visitors will get to see firsthand the work on the various huts and speak to those involved about the how, the why and what the future holds.

There will be guest speakers,

demonstrations using traditional tools, and a 3D scanning presentation.

There will also be merchandise for sale to support fundraising efforts, and any donations received on the day will provide ongoing support to protect and maintain the huts.

Another way to support the work of the association is by becoming a member on the day or online at any time at https:// hutsvictoria.org.au/.

According to Shez, who has been photographing the huts for more than 23 years: “There is something very special about being up in the high country away from the city lights and noise; and being one with nature in a very special part of our state.”

She encourages everyone to get out and go and see these huts and looks forward to sharing her passion at the anniversary event with others.

WORK FORCE: Several volunteers using traditional tools and skills at a working bee at Kelly’s Hut.

PHOTO: Shez Tedford

Rosehaven marks World Palliative Care Day

WORLD Hospice and Palliative Care Day (WHPCD) is a unified day of action to celebrate and support hospice and palliative care around the world, held annually on the second Saturday in October.

To mark WHPCD 2023, thousands of people around the world will be coming together on October 14 to celebrate, but perhaps more importantly to speak out about their lived experiences in grief, loss, and bereavement.

Rosehaven Hospice off Malcom Street will be working together with hospices, palliative care facilities, and people living with palliative care needs to amplify the WHPCD theme, “Compassionate Communities: Together for Palliative Care”.

WHPCD 2023 will be a day to advocate for the support of people with serious health-related suffering including those at the end-of-life, caregivers, and their families. Compassionate communities care for people, assist people to live in the place they call home, connect people to services, raise awareness about end-of-life issues and develop the capacity of others in the community.

WHPCD 2023 will be a day where communities, institutions, and healthcare providers unite and raise their voices

to advocate for palliative care policies and programs that support the strategic development goal of good health and wellbeing.

Palliative care development follows a public health model developed by the World Health Organisation that emphasizes policy, education, medication availability, community empowerment, research, and implementation.

There are many barriers to achieving each of these components.

In Mansfield, Rosehaven will mark this day with our annual commemorative memorial, this will be followed by an information session on Wednesday, October 18, marking senior’s month, celebrating and recognising carers’ week as well as recognizing WHPCD 2023.

An information session will be

Powerlines inspected ahead of bushfire season

ENERGY Safe Victoria has begun inspecting thousands of kilometres of powerlines to ensure they are clear of vegetation ahead of the summer.

Vegetation coming into contact with powerlines is a significant risk and cause of bushfires and it can also be the cause of widespread electricity outages.

Major Electricity Companies (MECs) and councils are responsible for vegetation management and are required by law to ensure there is enough distance between vegetation and powerlines to prevent them coming into contact.

Victoria’s safety regulator, Energy Safe, carries out an audit and inspection program, targeting high bushfire risk areas.

Key target areas will include the Dandenong Ranges, the Macedon Ranges and the Mornington Peninsula.

Inspectors will also focus on Victoria’s southwest, including areas impacted by the St Patrick’s Day fires of 2018, and the Colac Otways region.

“Our audit and inspection program has started and we will look at over 6,000 spans of power lines in Victoria’s hazardous bushfire risk areas before the weather starts to really heat up and the bushfire risk increases,” Energy Safe CEO Leanne Hughson said in a statement.

“This work is particularly important ahead of this summer with hotter and drier conditions predicted for the summer ahead.

held at The Delatite Hotel from 2 to 4pm, with afternoon tea supplied.

Please ensure you book by phoning 03 5775 3161, emailing manager@rosehaven.org.au or jump online to trybooking: www.trybooking.com/CLGUE

We currently have 28 volunteers that have been trained in Palliative Care Victoria’s Nine modules of palliative care and 87 active volunteers in our data base.

“Where we find non-compliance we will take action, including issuing fines and noncompliance notices that require MECs and Councils to urgently address safety risks being caused by vegetation.

“There is no excuse for line clearance breaches – each of which is essentially a bushfire risk.”

Energy Safe Compliance Officers will be on the road across the state to inspect vegetation and ensure the management systems and plans of MECs and Councils are being adhered to.

Inspections will also ensure previous noncompliances have been corrected.

PALLIATIVE SUPPORT: The team at Rosehaven Hospice.

Severe floods hit Jamieson

JAMIESON ON THE LINE

with Carmel Dixon

LAST week Jamieson received 150 ml of rain in 24 hours.

Tuesday the rains fell and the local rivers swelled, the Jamieson River and the Goulburn River flowed above the river bank, with lower lying properties needing sandbagging.

Our local Police officer George Crawford along with some local volunteers sandbagged a number of homes, as the flood waters developed.

The Jamieson Community Group AGM and General meeting was cancelled on Tuesday night, as the weather deteriorated.

The meeting was held on Friday morning at 10am in the Memorial Hall.

The new committee will be announced next week.

On Wednesday, with the Mansfield Woods Point Road, closed at Piries, Mansfield Artisans Potters and Ceramicists were unable to attend their Pottery classes with Diana Kilford at her Jamieson Studio.

Following the cancellation by flood of travel to Mansfield, Jamieson and the area from Woods Point to Merrijig suffered a Power

UP HIGH: The Jamieson River sand-bagged to hold the water back from homes in Jamieson.

outage from 11:30am to 8pm.

As most homes rely on water pumped to their homes, there was a lot of water bucket carrying.

With the sun finally appearing we all enjoyed a sunny weekend.

THE Seniors Lunch was held on Wednesday at the Courthouse Hotel, as the

Power outage happened the guests arrived for the lunch. Thirty local residents enjoyed the happy occasion.

The management and staff produced a generator, a neighbour raced home and returned with his generator and the day progressed without a hitch.

With gas appliances the menu was changed, the

guests enjoy the repartee and heartily tucked into a delicious plate of Fish N Chips and salad with beverages.

A very happy social occasion in spite of the weather.

The Seniors Lunch is a monthly affair held on the 1st Wednesday of the month and the location alternates between the Courthouse

Hotel and the Jamieson Brewery.

All are welcome.

A GROUP of friends rode their motor bikes to Jamieson on Sunday for lunch.

The group left Melbourne early and drove to Jamieson over the Eildon Road.

They arrived at the Courthouse Hotel looking forward to their lunch and

chat with some of the local residents they have met prior.

The weather was picture perfect so they dined outdoors enjoying the warm sun on the hotel deck area, prior to returning via Mansfield.

THE local businesses in Jamieson were affected by the power outage, the proprietors were amazed with the clientele popping in for a chat and beverage, that didn’t require electricity.

From the Courthouse Hotel, the Brewery, the General Store and Coffee shop, the Jamieson Café, the Service Station, the Post Office and Bank all electronic devices were noncompliant.

The local residents did not let the power disruption interfere with their social well being and went about their business as usual.

THE various holiday homes that were affected by flood water found sheds were flooded water reached to the verandas of a couple of properties.

Some of the river front properties on the Licola Road had to remove silt and debris from their garden and sheds.

The clean-up is hard work but inside flooding is very hard work.

We wish those affected well in their endeavours.

Get the MOST of local creativity

GET ready to immerse yourself in a vibrant world of artistry as the Mansfield Open Studio Trail (MOST) returns on November 4 and 5, showcasing a record-breaking 42 participating artists.

From painters to sculptors, textile artists, ceramicists, to fluid art creators, woodworkers and jewellers, the MOST event promises a captivating array of artistic mediums and creations.

Established in 2019 and

run entirely by volunteers, MOST offers visitors a unique opportunity to connect with local artists, witness their creative processes, and explore a diverse range of artistic mediums.

“It’s a chance to connect with the art, the artists, and the local creative community,” MOST founder Wendy Jagger said.

She said MOST has become an annual highlight for art enthusiasts and visi-

tors looking to explore the thriving art scene in north east Victoria.

“What sets MOST apart is the opportunity for art lovers to engage directly with the artists, witness their creative processes up close and personal, and discover the stories behind each artwork.

“Visitors will discover a curated collection of artworks available for purchase,” Wendy said.

From the picturesque landscapes of Jamieson and Tolmie to Bonnie Doon and Merrijig, Goughs Bay and Mansfield, this year’s MOST promises an even richer artistic tapestry.

Visitors can register for the event and participate in an exciting draw for a chance to win $500 MOST dollars, redeemable at any of the participating studios over the weekend. To register and enter the

draw, visit MOST Website.

To make your studio visits convenient and enjoyable, MOST organisers have created a Google Map to help you plan your itinerary, ensuring you don’t miss any of the amazing studios on the trail.

To access the Google Map and for more information about the Mansfield Open Studio Trail please visit MOST Website.

Stay connected with

MOST on social media using the hashtag #MansfieldOpenStudio for exclusive previews, artist spotlights, and real-time updates.

“Whether you’re a seasoned art connoisseur or simply looking for a unique weekend experience, MOST welcomes you to tour at your own pace, savouring the diverse artistic expressions that Mansfield and its surroundings have to offer,” Wendy said

& Beauty guide

UNDERSTAND THE PROCESS: Painter Tony Pridham in his studio.

INSIDE THE STUDIO: Painter and ceramacist Wendy Jagger in her studio.

ART FOR SALE: Digital art by Elsie Leatham.

MEET THE MAKER: Jeweller Sue Plumb with some of her tools.ON SHOW: Ceramics by Ainsley May.

ACROSS

3 Name a region in southwestern Italy (8)

7 Which language is spoken in Copenhagen (6)

8 When one is breathing out, one is doing what (8)

9 Which institution cares for the insane (6)

10 To be of a commanding quality, is to be what (8)

11 Name an area quite deficient in moisture (6)

14 Which spiny shrubs are used for incenses, perfumes, etc (6)

17 Which term describes severity of temper (8)

18 Name one of the two bones of the lower leg (6)

19 What is a short opera, commonly of light character (8)

20 To which animal family does the centipede belong (6)

21 What is an unfortunate event (8)

DOWN

1 Name a supernatural being of Irish and Scottish mythology (7)

2 What is a small assemblage of houses in a country district (7)

3 Name a more familiar term for an apothecary (7)

4 What is an institution for the promotion of literature, science or art (7)

5 What was the given name of Princess Grace of Monaco’s husband (7)

6 What are diamondshaped patterns of two or more colours (7)

11 Name a nearly pure form of carbon (7)

12 Which plants having succulent acid leaves are often used in salads (7)

E-QUATIONS

Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD QUICK THINK

13 Which one-piece loose outer garments are worn by babies (7)

14 Name a fashionable district in London, east of Hyde Park (7)

15 What is an alternative term for nonsense (7)

16 With which poison did Socrates end his life (7)

Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.

WHICH WORDS

1 COPRA

(a) A hooded serpent

(b) The dried kernel of the coconut

(c) A bird’s crest

2 KUMQUAT

(a) A liqueur flavoured with cumin and caraway seeds

(b) A small kind of orange

(c) The Chinese nationalist people’s party

BIYWORD

Build it yourself using the clues and each of the twenty-four letters once only to form ten words: five across and five down. A key word (bold clue) builds on the letter set in the grid.

CLUES: Chose (5)

Do not destroy (3)

Effecting by force (7)

Facial hair (5)

Nuclear energy converter (7)

Pectoral muscle (abb) (3)

Perpetrators (abbr) (5)

The ground (poet)

Voice disapproval

Wept

SOLUTIONS SUDOKU

Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.

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Looking to MCAV’s Cassie McCormack on Rural Women’s Day

MERRIJIG local and president of the Mountain Cattlemen’s Association of Victoria (MCAV), Cassie McCormack was the guest speaker and MC at Wangaratta’s inaugural Rural Women’s Day on Saturday.

It was the first time Ms McCormack had participated in an event celebrating women with her goal to inspire others through educating them on her role in the MCAV, whilst at the same time build exposure for the organisation.

Ms McCormack is a second generation president of the MCAV, taking over from her father in November of last year, and hopes to promote the achievements of women.

“There are a lot of women out there who don’t get recognised for the work they do,” she said.

“I’ve been on my MCAV board for over five years, my Dad was actually president last year before me and I actually did a lot of the work for Dad and it’s actually nice to be president.”

Ms McCormack said her main drive to become president was to educate younger generations on the work the MCAV does to care for the cattle in the high country.

“We have our older guys and they have their knowledge...I want to get it across to the younger generations in a way they understand,” she said.

“We actually had our event recently and it was really refreshing to have so many people come up to me and say that they think I’m doing an amazing job because I’m young and have fresh ideas.”

Rural Women’s Day aims to connect rural and regional women across Australia, with the day recognised in Wangaratta by a brunch in the garden of the Bishops Lodge followed by an evening celebration of rural and regional women at a gala dinner at Quality Hotel Wangaratta Gateway.

Field Day shows planning vital for good pasture

By LYNN ELDER

THE take home message from a pasture field day at Piries last Friday, October 6, was that planning and adopting a systems approach to establishing pastures ensures better productivity for landholders.

The field day which featured 10 trial plots of different pasture species was a partnership between Tactical AGA, and Roger Stephens from Mansfield Fertilizer, started 12 months ago.

Tactical AGA has a team of three agronomists who work with various farmers across rural Victoria including the Mansfield district to tailor a pasture planting program suitable for their area.

The free event was attended by several district farmers including some who are already using the services of Tactical AGA.

Senior agronomist, Wayne Firth said, “The purpose of the field day is basically about a systems approach to pastures and to provide

a firsthand experience of how the systems improve pastures.”

Wayne from the Surf Coast area was joined by Ruby Gow from Geelong and Matt Wright from Echuca as part of the team who were on hand to answer questions.

Wayne explained the business was not your typical store-based warehouse with much of their time spent in the field “helping family

farms” to achieve positive outcomes.

Tactical AGA has an established demonstration site at Mt Duneed on the Surf Coast which was initiated last year to display 50 different pastures suitable for local conditions.

DLF Seeds, a major leader in forage seed in Australia and with more than 80 years research and development expertise has teamed up with Tactical AGA to provide high-performance products that are appropriate for local farmers.

Sharing this knowledge during the field day was DLF Seed’s Simon Hunt who provided an overview of the various seed mixtures including annual and perennial grasses that were viewed in the trial plots.

Considerations of what to plant for successful pasture growth include amount of rainfall and terrain.

Certain species will do better in hilly areas such as those around the Mansfield district.

Wayne said that the aim should

be for “clean, fertile and productive” pastures.

This can include getting rid of weed grasses without a lot of herbicides and using rotation.

According to Wayne pasture regeneration helps to boost production and push out weeds which benefits the health of livestock.

There was also discussion about using superphosphate and lime, and the need to ensure that elements such as copper, magnesium and zinc were included.

Wayne used the analogy of a chocolate cake and the need for other ingredients as part of the program.

He also advised that landholders need to ensure that they have slug control in place before establishing pastures because they will not grow otherwise.

Conical snails can also be just as destructive as slugs.

It is hoped that the Piries site will be expanded next year to include more plots.

Willoughby’s swansong met with pleasant returns

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

SOME 924 head of cattle were sold at the Wangaratta October Store Sale last Friday morning, at an average price of $2.28/kg overall, up 20 cents across the board from last week.

A dry start to spring and a big surge in slaughter cattle supply since early August had brought upon an even further slide in the market last week.

Corcoran Parker cattle agent Reiley Murtagh said the sales went a little bit better than he was expecting, coun-

tering recent downward market trends.

“Cows and calves were a standout but that was quality driven,” he said.

“We were already going pretty well, another 120mm (of rain) in a fair radius of our area is really good.

“It’s going to keep kicking things on and it’s going to put a bit more confidence in the local area to buy cattle, and I think it’s stretched all through Victoria and into some southern parts of New South Wales which generally does help out the market.”

LOCAL INSIGHT: MCAV president Cassie McCormack was the MC at the inaugural Rural Women’s Day on Saturday.

LEARNING OP: Mansfield’s Jim Vasey was among several local farmers at the pasture field day.

PHOTO: Lynn Elder

FIRST-HAND: Local landholders got to see different pasture mixtures across several plots.

PHOTO: Lynn Elder

OVER AND OUT: Mike Willoughby looks over one of his pens of over 150 head of cows and calves Friday morning, selling his entire herd at his soon to be former Hansonville propety as he looks to travel the country after 40 years in the local cattle industry.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

October

 OCTOBER 6 - 29: Colour and Light: An Exhibition: 11am - 3pm, Thurs - Sun - Mansfield Arts Collective Studios, 10 Crosbys Lane, Mansfield. Showcasing Adam Wagstaff’s photography.

 OCTOBER 11: The Produce Store Artesian Market: 4 - 7pmMansfield Produce Store.

 OCTOBER 14 - 28: MMuDS

Presents: The Castle2 A Bonnie Doon Rock Musical. Tickets on the MMuDS website.

 OCTOBER 16: U3A Presents Up the Chile coast to Machu Picchu presented by Elaine Cooper: 10am - Mansfield Library (enter by back door). For membership details call Trish 0437 357 829.

 OCTOBER 18: Rosehaven Information Session: 2 - 4pmDelatite Hotel. Information on Rosehaven’s services with an afternoon tea.

 OCTOBER 21: St John’s Annual Fete: 9am - 12:30pm - St John’s Church.

 OCTOBER 23: Yoga in the Garden: 10 - 11am - Rosehaven Garden.

 OCTOBER 26: Meditation in the Garden: 10 - 11am - Rosehaven Garden.

 OCTOBER 28: Mansfield Farmers’ Market: 8:30am - 1pm - High Street median opposite the Post Office.

 OCTOBER 28: Open Day at The Farmhouse: 9am - 12pm. All families are welcome to join in fun activities, meet the animals and discuss care and kindergarten available.

 OCTOBER 28: Mansfield Steiner Spring Fair and Open Day: 10am3:30pm - Mansfield Steiner School. The whole community is invited to join in a day of celebration, beginning with a Welcome to Spring Fair Maypole Ceremony.

 OCTOBER 28: High Country Halls Music Festival: 3:30pm - Merton Hall. Featuring John Flanagan & 7 Piece Band and supported by Naturally Kerley. On-site food truck and sausage sizzle with drinks (alcoholic and nonalcoholic) available. Tickets are $35pp for Adults. Youth 13-18yrs $25 pp and Kids under 12yrs FREE (limited kids tickets available).

 OCTOBER 29: Open Mic Poetry: 4:30 - 8:30pm - High Country Gardens and Maze, Goughs Bay. $5 entry, platters available - ring 5777 3190 by Oct 15 to order. NO BYO. Bring a rug or chair - event is weather dependent.

November

 NOVEMBER 3: Breakfast on the Lawn: 7 - 9am - High Street Median opposite the Post Office. Join this community event to

Regular Events:

 Circle of Friends meet every second Monday at Invoke from 10:30am12:30pm. Join a group of women for morning tea, a chat and some meditation. Nominal fee to cover costs.

Enquiries: Suzy Rideout: 0466 998 811

 CWA Monthly meetings: 4th Wednesday Evening or Sunday afternoon (alternating each month: March –Wed).

 CWA Craft Days: Wednesday‘s 10am and last Thursday evening of the month at 6pm.

OCTOBER 14 - 28

NOVEMBER 3

 CWA Op shop open: most days from 10am to 2pm.

 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.

NOVEMBER 4-5

 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.

kick off the High Country Festival and enjoy eggs, bacon, sausages. toast, orange juice, sparkling wine, tea and coffee. $15 for adults and $8 for kids supporting Mansfield Autism.

 NOVEMBER 3: Mansfield High Country Festival Opening Night: 4 - 9:30pm - Mansfield Botanic Park. Join the community in celebrating everything Mansfield has to offer with food, wine and fun.

 NOVEMBER 4: Martin’s Garage Grand Parade: 11am - 2pm - High Street. The signature event of the Mansfield High Country Festival. Watch a wonderful array of decorated bikes, cars, ingeniously designed floats and community groups dressing up in Festival style. Prizes presented for the best entries in each category for the theme “Take me to the movies!”

 NOVEMBER 4: AMPED UP!

Amphitheatre Sound Sessions: 12:30 - 4:30pm - High Street

Median - Eastern End. Food trucks, coffee, wine & beer alongside local live musicians,

drinks and more. Explore the art in the area with the sculptures, murals and interactive pieces.

 NOVEMBER 4 AND 5: Mansfield Open Studio Trail (MOST). Showcasing artistic work spanning Jamieson, Tolmie, Bonnie Doon, Merrijig, Goughs Bay and Mansfield.

 NOVEMBER 5: Mansfield Skate Park Series: 11am - 2pmMansfield Skate Park. Round 13 of the North East Skate Park Series.

 NOVEMBER 6: Indigenous Mullum Wetlands Walk: 10am - 12pm - Mansfield Visitor Information Centre.

 NOVEMBER 7: Marks IGA Melbourne Cup Day Picnic Races

 NOVEMBER 11: High Country Halls Music Festival: 5pm - Tolmie Hall. Featuring Tim & The Captain and Rat Pack. Food will be available for purchase from Flaming Pizzas and Benalla Bites, while the Tolmie Community Social Club will be running a full bar. Strictly no BYO. Tickets are $35pp for Adults. Kids under 12yr

FREE (must be accompanied by a ticketed adult).

 NOVEMBER 14: Movie Night: 6:30pm - Mansfield Armchair Cinema. Join Mansfield Autism in watching the movie Dream Horse with guest speaker Sophie Fox. Tickets $35.

 NOVEMBER 15: Retired Police (Veterans) Luncheon at the Mansfield Golf Club, 12 noon. Enquiries call Kevin Jacobs on 0427 321 185.

 NOVEMBER 18: High Country Dance: 6 - 11:45pm - St Mary’s Hall. Celebrating the best of Mansfield’s high country in ‘toe tappin dapper’ to support Mansfield Autism. $90 adult ticket includes The Kitchen Door catering, welcome drink, dancing & an auction to boot. Drinks at bar prices. No BYO. Please advise any dietary restrictions.

 NOVEMBER 19: Goughs Bay Festival: 10:30am - 4:30pm - Bring the family and enjoy delicious food, tasty drinks, kids fun activities and music.

MANSFIELD ARMCHAIR CINEMA

 Mansfield Multicultural Group – Every second Tuesday of the month at 6pm at MACE.

 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.

 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 in the library (rear entrance)

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

The Castle2 A Bonnie Doon Rock Musical

Mansfield High Country Festival Opening Night

Mansfield Open Studio Trail

Buttercup Road design released McLeish promotion

MANSFIELD Shire Council has announced a new upgrade design for Buttercup Road, Merrijig, which will take place this year following feedback from the community.

The design will aim to address concerns related to road safety, while also extending the lifespan and durability of the road to support increased traffic.

In addition to its use by residents, Buttercup Road is also used to access camping spots nearby during peak tourist seasons, along with use for heavy vehicles.

Over the years, the road has experienced damage due to usage, heavy rainfall, and flooding.

The Council has continued to make improvements on the road to rectify these issues, which have included the following:

 Resheeting, maintenance grading and defined drainage.

 Road-widening from 4m to 5m, and resheeting with addition of PolyCom (stabilising agent)

 New and larger culverts, further drainage definition, sealing and redesigning the intersection of School Lane/Gonzaga Lane

While these improvements have enhanced the road condition, Council’s Capital Works Team are working on finding a more permanent solution to

reduce road deterioration over time.

The new Buttercup Road upgrade will include:

 Geotechnical testing on the sealed and unsealed section to identify the existing pavement condition

 A new pavement design to reconstruct and seal the unsealed road

 Reseal preparation and resealing the existing sealed road to improve the pavement condition

 Defining drainage on the existing unsealed section to avoid water pooling on the road surface.

Mayor Cr James Tehan thanked

the community in a statement for their feedback on Buttercup Road.

“Community input is vital in ensuring that road upgrades such as this address the community’s needs and priorities effectively,” he said.

“We believe that the long-term benefits of this road upgrade will create a safer, more resilient and reliable transportation network for our community and its visitors.”

Design works are currently being undertaken by contractor FMG Engineering and are expected to be completed late this year.

Drainage and resealing works will follow and are anticipated to commence in the new year.

STATE state member for Eildon Cindy McLeish has added WorkCover and the Transport Accident Commission to her current roles in a recent reshuffle by the Liberal party. The changes were announced by the Leader of the Opposition John Pesutto on October 2.

“Cindy McLeish will add WorkCover and TAC to her current portfolio of small business so we ensure we are building the most attractive environment for small business which is the engine room of Victoria’s economy,” Mr Pesutto said.

“As a team we have worked hard over the past ten months to hold Labor to account whether it be the Commonwealth Games debacle, the horror state budget, corruption and waste, and ensuring we have positive solutions to address the housing crisis, health crisis and we are listening to Victorians about the issues important to them,” Mr Pesutto said .

GLASS & GLAZING

Specialising in architectural windows & glazing

11 Crosbys Lane, Mansfield mobile 0419 998 721 info@robbosglass.com.au

LANDSCAPING

FIRE SAFETY PLUMBER

North East distributor of Taylex Treatment Systems to plumbers, builders

PLUMBER

For all your Commercial & Domestic Plumbing Rob - 0409 448 977

PH: ADAM LAYFIELD 0418 898 996

EMAIL adam@aplwastewater.com.au

PUBLIC NOTICES

Information

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE EXISTING TELSTRA MOBILE PHONE BASE STATIONS WITH 5G AT 2 LOCATIONS

1643 Buller St Howqua Hills, VIC 3723 www.rfnsa.com.au/3723027

1. The proposal consists of:

Removal of 4 x existing omni antennas

Installation of 6 x new panel antennas (each measuring not more than 2.8m long).

Mt Buller Rd, MT BULLER, VIC 3723 www.rfnsa.com.au/3723008

1. The proposal consists of:

Removal of 4 x existing omni antennas.

Installation of 1 x new square headframe and 6 x new panel antennas (each measuring not more than 2.8m long).

Rosehaven is expanding its services

SUPPORT SERVICE WORKER, EEN’S & RN’S Rosehaven is looking for compassionate, caring Support Service workers, EEN’s and RN’s for permanent part time and casual work. Our staff are valued members of our team, and we pride ourselves on person-centred, high-quality support and care in a home like environment.

Essential skills:

–Minimum qualification of Certificate III in Individual support or equivalent

–First aid certificate HLTAID013 or equivalent

–Excellent communication skills

Phone: (03) 5723 0101

Both proposals involve the installation and removal of associated ancillary equipment.

2. Telstra regards the proposed installations as Low-impact Facilities under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (“The Determination”)

–Ability to work autonomously

–Recent police check and or willing to obtain one

–Commitment to follow and promote Rosehaven’s mission and vision

–Current Victorian driver’s licence

–Ability to work within a holistic team environment

Phone: (03) 5723 0101

3. In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: Steven – Town Planner, 0429 235 501, community.consult@downergroup.com by 5PM Wednesday 25th October 2023.

Telstra Limited ACN 086 174 781 Downer EDI Limited ABN 97 003 872 848

PUBLIC NOTICES

–A compassionate and caring nature

Desired skills:

–Knowledge and understanding of delivery of community palliative care

–Personal Care experience

–Food Handlers certificate

To apply please send cover letter and resume to manager@rosehaven.org.au or phone 5775 3161 to find out more information.

Phone: (03) 5723 0101

Get your names in the RADIO MANSFIELD and MANSFIELD COURIER birthday book.

Applications close October 18, 2023.

Phone: (03) 5723 0100

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:

LOUISE HEARN

To enter call Radio Mansfield on 5775 2333

Grounds Assistants (Casual Summer Crew)

Timbertop campus

Phone: (03) 5723 0100

COMMUNITY MEETING

A proposal to formalize a structure with a positive, transparent platform in the Merrijig/Delatite Valley.

For further details and/or to apply, visit the Employment page on our website: www.ggs.vic.edu.au/employment

Office Administrator/ Sales Support

Full or part time

Are you working in office administration, retail or hospitality and looking to take the next step in your career? This position is a permanent opportunity which offers stability while working in a supportive team environment.

You will be joining a well established and highly successful print and digital media company based at our Mansfield office.

PUBLIC NOTICES

Audit & Risk Management Committee position

The Board of Directors of Mansfield District Hospital has a vacancy for a suitably qualified and experienced volunteer for appointment as a community representative on their Audit & Risk Management Committee.

The Audit & Risk Management Committee has four scheduled meetings per year. Applications must include current CV and letter detailing relevant experience including financial and/or risk management.

Written applications will be received up to Friday 27th October 2023 and should be addressed to Chair, Audit & Risk Management Committee by email to Tracy.Rekers@mdh.org.au

Further information regarding this role can be obtained by contacting Audit & Risk Management Chair, Katie Lockey by emailing Tracy.Rekers@mdh.org.au.

THURSDAY OCTOBER 12, 2023 at 6PM MERRIJIG MOTOR INN

Requesting community consultation - business owners, farmers, residents and non-residents to provide input to progress business, tourism and community, with consideration of heritage, land management, land use and possible future rezoning.

TO ASSIST DEVELOPMENT OF THE COUNCIL’S 20 YEAR VISIONARY PLANNING DOCUMENT KNOWN AS “THE DELATITE VALLEY DEVELOPMENT PLAN (DVDP)”

EVERYONE WELCOME

BUS DRIVER

2024

Australian Christian College - Hume

Address: 57 Samaria Road, Benalla VIC 3672

Apply at: https://www.acc.edu.au/careers/ hume-vic/bus-driver/

As a Sales Support/ Office Administrator you will be supporting the team by providing administrative and sales support. Your role will have variety and a typical day will include:

phone and email our in-house design team

To be successful in this role you will have: skills

verbal and written skills

The person in this role will also demonstrate a strong sense of urgency working to strict deadlines.

This is an opportunity to join our sales team and use your customer service skills to support our clients with their print and digital marketing needs.

Applications should be forwarded to:

Leah Scott Mansfield

Manager North East Media lscott@nemedia.com.au

Sales

EMPLOYMENT

Position available: Welder/Metal Fabricator

Mansfield’s Marketplace

EMPLOYMENT

RESTART - ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS CLINICIAN

Part time

Mansfield District Hospital has an opportunity for a Qualified Nurse or Allied Health professional to work as an alcohol and other drugs clinician. Working as part of the Primary care centre team this position is responsible for working collaboratively and autonomously within the Mansfield Restart team. The Mansfield Restart program focuses on treatment, rehabilitation and prevention to tackle the problems of alcohol and drugs in the community. You will be providing treatment and preventative style therapy to support people seeking help for their struggle with alcohol and drug concerns.

Position Type: Permanent Part time

Closing Date: 23rd October 2023

Position Description and Applications: https://www.livehire.com/job/mdh/K636G

EMPLOYMENT

Graphic Designer

2012 Holden Captiva

5 CG Series II Auto

4WD (1HC9CJ)

2.2L Turbo Diesel, only 106,600klm, RWC, 12 mth rego colour/trim silver/ grey, new tyres, air conditioning, sunroof, spotless condition $9900. Inspect 5 Fielding Lane, Piries.

Ph. Craig Jones 0418 773 541.

Personal Notices

info@vacuumtrucks.com.au (03) 5775 7300

Full or part time opportunity

An opportunity has arisen for a graphic designer to join one of Victoria and NSW’s leading independent news and media groups, based at our Wangaratta office working on newspapers, magazines and digital properties across our group.

Rosehaven is expanding its services

FULLTIME

ASSISTANT MANAGER JOB SHARE POSITION

Rosehaven is a 5-bedroom respite and end of life home, set on 4.5 acres that provides person centred respite and end of life care. Our services are growing and expanding, and we are looking for an assistant manager/s.

Essential skills:

–Nursing, allied health or community services background/ qualifications

–Advocacy and assessment skills

–A compassionate and caring nature

–Efficient and organised

–Flexible and reliable

–First aid certificate HLTAID013 or equivalent

–Excellent communication skills

–Ability to work autonomously

–Recent police check and or willing to obtain one

–Commitment to follow and promote Rosehaven’s mission and vision

–Current Victorian driver’s licence

–Ability to work within a holistic team environment

Proficient in Microsoft suite software and willingness to learn volunteer management data base

Desired skills:

–Post Graduate qualifications in palliative care desirable

–Management experience desirable

–Recent palliative care experience

–Knowledge and understanding of community palliative care

–Experience in volunteer management

–Demonstrated experience in management

–Food handler’s certificate

To apply please send cover letter and resume to manager@rosehaven.org.au or phone 5775 3161 to find out more information.

Applications close October 18, 2023.

Following recent acquisitions North East Media is seeking additional graphic design support. You must be able to multitask, have strong organisational skills and be able to work under pressure and to tight deadlines. You must also be a team player who shows initiative and be able to work with minimal supervision.

Your experience will include sound skills developing artwork using Adobe InDesign. Experience designing artwork for multiple digital channels, including websites, social media, email marketing would be an advantage but not is not essential.

If you are looking for a new challenge in an energetic and stimulating environment, we would encourage you to apply.

Applications should be forwarded to: Edward Higgins CEO North East Media Pty Ltd ehiggins@nemedia.com.au

RAMS

Further details Hill View Poll Dorset and White Suffolk Chiltern 0437 490 738

$800 - $1200

Breeding rams since 1994

MASSEY FERGUSON 175 TRACTOR

Multi power, rops canopy, front blade, near new tyres, only done 296 hours since engine rebuild, $14,500. Ph 0428 350 525.

MOTORCYCLES

HD Fat Bob, 2009, (HY607), 38,000km, $18,000 ono. Ph 0422 794 387.

PETS AND LIVESTOCK

PUREBRED GREAT DANE PUPPIES

Blue with various white markings. Microchipped, regularly wormed and vaccinated.

Males and females available.

Available mid October.

Source no. MB229424

Microchip: 991003002428066, 991003002428076, 991003002428074, 991003002428069, 991003002428062, 991003002428071, 991003002428073, 991003002428078, 991003002428080, 991003002428065, 991003002428063, 991003002428077

Phone: 0488 354 436

B N Great Danes @bonnie.nigel.danes

FIREWOOD

Mixed bulk loads Telephone North East Firewood 0448 933 999

2008 Holden VE SS Sedan (1KF5UZ), 197,800km, manual, 19” rims, has upgraded cams, genie extractors, 3-inch exhaust, high

2016 Ford Focus Trend (1GO8OS),1.5L t urbo petrol, 6 speed auto, 51,000km, 4 n ew tires, registered to Feb 24, 50,000km service completed, RWC supplied, $17,900 ONO. 0427 273 427

Personal Notices

CAMERON, Kylie Maree. 17/11/197611/10/2022

Another day, another tear, just wishing you were here.

~ Mum, Don, Mel and Michael.

FUNERALS

MERRIMAN

The Funeral of Mr Rodney Victor Merriman will be held at the N J Todd Funeral Home, 81 Baddaginnie- Benalla Road, Benalla on Saturday, October 14, 2023, commencing at 11am. Private Cremation

DEATH NOTICES

MERRIMAN, Rodney Victor. 25/7/1931 - 7/10/2023

Passed away peacefully at Estia Health Benalla Aged 92 years.

Loved and loving husband to Margaret “Maggie”. Much loved father and father-in-law of Kym and John, Tracey and Greg, Kerry, Dean and Madeline. Loved and adored Pa to Nathan and Kyla; Jeremy and Kate; and Angus and Great Pa to Olivia. Forever loved.

SIMPKIN, Stephen Alec “Steve”. 6/6/1948 - 7/10/2023

Dearly loved husband of Helena. Loved father of Karen. Brother to Alan and Ian. Rest peacefully mate.

The funeral service to celebrate Steve's life will be held at the McCormack Chapel, Monday October 16, commencing at 1pm.

By ALISTAIR KENNEDY

ALTHOUGH Korean carmaker SsangYong has been in the Australian market for the past 20 years it has never been able to get close to the success of its compatriots Hyundai and Kia.

The company has gone through financial difficulties over the years and been taken over at different times by SAIC, Daewoo, Mahindra and, earlier this year, by a new entrant in the automotive scene – KG Mobility.

SsangYong currently has three models in its range, the Musso ute and two SUVs, mid-sized Korando and, this week’s test vehicle the medium-large Rexton.

Rexton languishes near the bottom of the large SUV segment well below the big hitters like Toyota Prado and Kluger, Ford Everest and Isuzu MU-X, which is a pity because, after our week behind the wheel, we came away highly impressed.

Drive-away prices starting from $47,990 make it a fair bit cheaper than these competitors with a seven-year warranty adding to the value equation.

Like the ute-based Everest and MU-X, the Rexton sits on the same platform as the SsangYong Musso.

Three variants are offered, ELX, Ultimate and Ultimate Sport Pack, formerly sold as the Black Edition.

A third variant, called Adventurer, will be added later this year that will slot between ELX and Ultimate in terms of both specs and price.

All come with seven seats, a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine, eight-speed automatic trans-

SSANGYONG REXTON IS AN IMPRESSIVE SEVEN-SEATER AT A BARGAIN PRICE

mission and 3500kg braked towing capacity.

STYLING

The constraints of fitting three rows of seats don’t allow for much flexibility in the roofline of large SUVs and Rexton has the same conservative profile as its rivals.

Most of the work therefore gets done at the front and rear.

Rexton has an attractive intricate diamond-style grille with the company logo, which few people recognised, at the top/centre.

Both variants come with quad-style LED headlights, LED daytime running lights and LED front fog lights.

At the rear the tail lights and number plate lights are also LED.

The high-mounted stop lights are integrated into the rear spoiler.

Wheels are 18-inch diamond-cut alloys.

Rexton Ultimate adds privacy glass, powered sunroof and tailgate and illuminated front door scuff plates.

There are six colour choices: Grand White, Atlantic Blue, Fine Silver, Marble Grey, Pearl White and Space Black.

The limited Black Edition is based on the Ultimate model and comes with a redesigned front with diamondshaped grille elements, deep gloss black finish and newstyle LED fog lights.

Other dark touches include black 20-inch alloy wheels and black painted roof rails.

There are only two colour options: Space Black or Pearl White.

ton has a fairly high stance which can challenge shorter occupants, but on the positive side the high seating position provides ideal viewing.

There are thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) leatherlook seats in all three rows.

The front seats are powered, comfortable and supportive as well as being heated and ventilated.

Attractive quilted trim can be found on the seats and around the front console.

Storage space is good with sliding covers for the drink holders and phone charging bay.

The rear seats are finished in the same quilted trim while the second-row seats can tilt backwards to about 50-degrees – subject of course to the approval of any third-row occupants.

The second-row also has a fold-down armrest with two cupholders and small storage area.

Ultimate adds driver’s seat and door mirror memory system, touch-sensing front door locks, heated leather steering wheel, ambient interior mood lighting and third row air conditioning controls.

Access to the third-row seats and space once there provides the usual challenges and are best left for children.

Even then the seating is low and there’s only small, triangular windows which provide a claustrophobic feel.

Boot space with all seats in place is limited.

ENGINE/TRANSMISSION

The 2.2-litre turbo-diesel generates maximum power of 148kW at 3800 rpm and healthy peak torque of 441Nm from 1600 revs.

Fuel consumption is listed at 8.7L/100km.

The eight-speed automatic comes with the convenience of steering wheel mounted shift paddles.

It has part-time 4x4 with low and high range and an automatic-locking rear differential.

SAFETY

Although Rexton hasn’t undergone ANCAP crash testing it does come with a good range of safety equipment in both variants.

They include nine airbags, autonomous emergency braking with forward collision warning, lane change collision warning, safety distance warning, blind spot warning, smart high beam, front vehicle start warning, rear cross traffic warning, tyre pressure monitoring system, Isofix child seat anchors for the outer centre seats and trailer sway control.

There are front and rear parking sensors and a reversing camera, with a 360-degree camera in the Ultimate.

DRIVING

Despite its modest 148kW power output, 441Nm of torque means the combination of 2.2-litre diesel engine and eight-speed auto transmission pulls the big vehicle along in a smooth, relaxed and surprisingly quiet manner.

It certainly loses nothing in comparison with its betterknown and more expensive competitors.

Steering is relatively light and there’s a fair bit of body roll through corners, but that’s par for the course with large SUVs.

During our test we aver-

AT A GLANCE

MODEL RANGE

REXTON ELX: $47,990

REXTON ULTIMATE: $54,990

REXTON ULTIMATE SPORT PACK: $56,990

Note: These are drive-away prices and include all government or dealer delivery charges.

SPECIFICATIONS (SsangYong Rexton 2.2-litre turbo-diesel four-door wagon)

aged 9.3L/100km, reasonably close to the listed 8.7 L/100km.

SUMMING UP

We haven’t tested a SsangYong Rexton for quite a long time and came away pleasantly surprised.

It’s very well priced but not at the expense of safety equipment, convenience features or technology.

It not only beats competitors on price but comes with a seven-year unlimited warranty together with seven-year roadside assistance.

Certainly worth a comparative test drive.

ENGINE:

Capacity: 2.157 litres

Configuration: Four cylinders in line

Maximum Power: 148 kW @ 3800 rpm

Maximum Torque: 441Nm @ 1600 rpm

Fuel Type: Diesel Combined Fuel Cycle (ADR 81/02): 8.7 L/100km

CO2 Emissions: 223 g/km

DRIVELINE:

Eight-speed automatic

DIMENSIONS, WEIGHT AND CAPACITIES:

Length: 4850 mm

Wheelbase: 2865 mm

Width: 1960 mm

Height: 1825 mm

Turning Circle: 11.0 metres

Kerb Mass: 2130 kg

Fuel Tank Capacity: 70 litres

STANDARD WARRANTY: Seven years / unlimited kilometres

BANG FOR YOUR BUCK: SsangYong Rexton is an affordable alternative in the family SUV market.

Mansfield Tennis Association reaches agreement with council

TENNIS

MANSFIELD Shire Council and the Mansfield Tennis Association (MTA) have announced a Community Asset Committee Agreement that will enhance the tennis community of Mansfield.

The Community Asset Committee will manage the property located at 14-16 Elvins Street, Mansfield.

The agreement with the Community Asset Committee spans a decade, with the

possibility of unlimited 10year extensions, commencing on October 1, 2023.

The tennis facilities at Elvins Street comprise 10 synthetic grass courts, six of which are equipped with lighting, and a new hardcourt featuring a practice wall, also under lights.

The clubhouse boasts a spacious veranda with a BBQ area and a children’s playground.

Mayor Cr James Tehan said this initiative underscores the commitment of

Mansfield Shire Council to engage with the community and strengthen partnerships with local organisations.

“The Community Asset Committee Agreement with MTA aims to bolster collaboration, ensuring optimal land and tennis facility utilisation for the community’s benefit,” he said in a statement.

“Council is very pleased to see this partnership recognised in the new agreement with a clear definition of responsibilities.”

MTA has a strong history dating back to the 1920s, marked by well-preserved records showing the association’s early days with spirited competitions involving local church and school teams.

In a pivotal move in 1961, the Mansfield Chamber of Commerce secured land to establish a dedicated tennis centre, which was named in honour of the Cummins family for their contributions to community growth.

By 1966, four courts graced the site.

“Mansfield Tennis Association has occupied the Elvins Street land for decades and in that time has developed a highly regarded, north east Victoria tennis facility,” said Association President, Brendan Grant in a statement.

“We are delighted to enter into a Community Asset Committee Agreement with Council.

“This will now give our club long term tenure security to further invest in play-

ing infrastructure for the benefit of our club members and the Mansfield sporting community as a whole.”

Per the terms of the agreement, the Committee will occupy and manage the property for the purpose of continuing to operate a Tennis Club.

The Committee will be responsible for paying utility costs but will not pay rent, as the Committee’s management of the property was agreed by Council to be sufficient consideration.

Locals on a riding high

HIGHLINE Mountain Bike Park hosted the first Auscycling Victorian State Enduro Mountain Bike Championships recently on the first weekend of October.

“With perfect weather, perfect trail conditions and great vibes, it shaped up to be the ultimate weekend of racing,” said Highline’s Shannon Rademaker.

The event brought 200 riders from around the state and interstate to race for the ultimate glory of being our first state champions.

The discipline of enduro calculates your accumulative race time from up to five descending stages, with participants riding uphill between stages untimed.

Race categories consisted of age groups from Under 13 through to Masters 55+.

As well as showcasing the faster paced Elite Male and Elite Female.

Racing was close in each category with only seconds separating the podium place finishers.

“Thanks to all of the volunteers who made the event possible,” said Shannon.

“Along with the local community for their support.”

Mansfield Local Results:

Masters 45-55 Male

Tom MacMunn 1st place

Nick Martin 4th Place

Adam Baker 14th place

Masters 35-44 Male

Ant Bateup 6th place

Nathan Pelling 14th place

Masters 35-44 Women

Carly Bingham 1st place

E-MTB Open

James Kolozsi 6th place

Elite Male

Alan Mohoney 25th place

Elite Women

Bella Green 3rd place

U/19 Women

Ruby Dobson 2nd place

U/17 Male

Archie Smith 9th place

Charlie Dobson 17th place

Ryder Chadd 24th place

Finn Baker 29th place

Charlie Mountain 34th place

U/15 Male

Ruben Bateup 5th place

BIKE SKILLS: Mansfield Primary School principal and all-round Highline Legend, Tom MacMunn dominated in the Masters Male 45 to 55 age category, securing first on the podium.

GREAT EFFORT: Archie Smith took out ninth place in the Under 17s Male category.

Tennis teams get off to a wet season start

TENNIS

By RHONDA CARPENTER

THE Mansfield Tennis Association (MTA) is excited to announce teams for the night competitions starting this week on October 10, 11 and 12.

A new twist had players register online by membership payment to select their preference for competition.

Tuesday night will have seven teams, Wednesday and Thursday night will both have six teams.

There are 19 teams in total.

Last-minute entries kept selectors on their toes as teams were formed and rejigged to include those keen to play.

This season the Club Championships will be held on March 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 pri-

or to the final round of night competition.

The Grand Finals for the three nights will all be played on March 26, 2024.

MTA recently formalised an agreement with the Shire Council to occupy and manage the Elvin Street facility on the Shire’s behalf.

The club’s long-term commitment to tennis development and care of the facility was recognized in negotiations.

Players are expected to arrive at 6:45pm for a 7pm start after an introductory welcome.

For information on policies, programs, draws, teams, and historical photos visit the club’s website at play.tennis.com.au/mansfieldtennisassociation.

Tuesday night teams

Spitfires: Jason Blake, Brendan Grant (Captain),

Niether singing nor racing in the in rain

CYCLING

By BRUCE HALKET

A WISE, anonymous cyclist once said: “The way to end a drought is to put on a bike race”.

So it proved last week.

The dry September abruptly ended on Tuesday forcing the cancellation of the season’s first session of Dirt Crits at Rifle Butts MTB Park; and then on Thursday we thought the rain had eased off in time to race in the dry.

Wrong.

A drizzly evening saw 17 entrants reduced to 14 starters for the 25km along Whitfield Road from the Botanic Park to Sawpit Gully Road and back for the first MMBCC road race of the ‘summer’.

With the limit group a late

Karyn Fraser, Judy Dixon.

Hornets: Dan Robertson (Captain), Sarah Fox, Callum Bono, Geoff Hutchinson.

Redbacks: Michael Whytcross, Michelle Pigdon (Captain), Fiona Lindsay, Mark Poole.

Cicadas: Greg McDermott (Captain), Jaden Findlay, Glenn Fox, Kathryn Murray.

Jumping Jacks: Rohan West, Anna Spiers, Liza Karras (Captain), Bill Jones.

Bull ants: Max Ree Goodings, Dante Cremasco, James Fox, Keira McDonagh (Captain).

Wasps: Guy Taylor, Shane Hutchinson, Emily Dirksen, Ilena Meek (Captain).

Wednesday night teams

Raiders: David Aldous, Jemma Purcell, Kimberley Marsden (Captain), Sophie Yencken

Bandidos: Dante Cremasco, David Mims, Emma Kay,

Joanne Brabazon (Captain), Ben Brabazon.

Hustlers: Chris Hewlitt, Cassie Daykin (Captain), Matt Lowe, Will McAlister, Steph Herridge.

Outlaws: Mark O’Loughlin, Courtney O’Loughlin (Captain), Max O’Loughlin, Bronwyn Sly.

Diablo: Dafydd James, Claudia James (Captain), Jeremy Veneman, Mikaela Richardson.

Rascals: Nick Ferguson, Carolyn Murray (Captain), Lisa Morgan, Helen Knight, Jane Swinburne.

Thursday night teams

Backgammon: Andrew Crockett, Helen Crockett, Carol Watts (Captain), Cathy Johnstone, Doug Galbraith.

Monopoly: Matt Johnston (Captain), Angela Comerford, Brendan Purcell, Sophie Ellis, Alice Kilpatrick.

Equalisers: Scott Ersvaer,

Steve Earp, Rhonda Carpenter (Captain), Bob Carpenter.

Checkers: Michael McCormack, Jason Shaw, Rachel Parsons, Jo O’Brien (Captain).

Scrabble: Alistair Crockett, Sarah Mae, Suzie Wellborne (Captain), Moira Moss.

Legends: Daniel Dundas, Ben Nally, Arthur Gerrans, Hanna Aldous (Captain), Jenna Hutchison.

Junior Competition

The sun shone brightly as eighteen youngsters formed four sections with first timers getting into the mix for the start of junior competition last Saturday morning.

Organizer Jo O’Brien welcomed everyone back for tennis 2023, explained the expectations and ensured sun protection was applied before match play began.

Serving practice was a

warmup activity before short games of doubles and singles got underway.

Friends connected and first timers were included.

Toby Gerrans won Section 1, Noah Kayssar narrowly took Section 2 over Max O’Brien, and Spencer Yencken won Section 3.

The aggregate competition allows participants of similar skills to rotate partners and progress through their section.

You are welcome to join the fun next week or join in at any stage of the season.

Come at 8:45am for a 9am start.

Danny Cahill was busy on the blue court introducing younger ones to the game of tennis through Hot Shots and parents watched on.

He is also back coaching on Wednesdays and Thursdays after school.

scratching, first up off 14 minutes was Dave Jagger and John Eisner.

The two of them were telling anyone within earshot they’d been off the bike for weeks.

But everyone knew they’d been regulars in Jock’s shed on the trainer over winter, working hard on their fitness.

Nice try boys.

Next, off 11 minutes, was Steve Curnow (recently returned from hiking in the Flinders Ranges) and Ian Conrick (still recovering from Geelong missing the finals).

Their group had been reduced by a late scratching too, making their task much more difficult.

Another scratching saw the next group reduced from five to four.

Off 4.30 was Darren Bakker (keen to give his new, ex-

GreenEdge Giant its first local hitout), Ant Bateup (on his recently updated gravel-bike-turned-roadbike), Adrian Dowd (hoping his injured achilles had recovered) and defending series champion turned winter hill runner Mick Pearce.

Next group to go, off 3.00 consisted of multiple-time Australian mtb champ Ruby Dobson and a couple of old blokes, Steve Duke and me.

Finally came the contingent from Seymour Broadford Cycling Club - Shayne Kirby and Andy Garrett off 1.00 and Jake Lay was the sole Scratch rider.

Lay caught Block about 5km into the race and the three SBCC boys powered their way through the field.

Dowd was the first in trouble.

Nursing an injury is not the best way to gain fitness and he was dropped from his group early.

Next to go was Duke who couldn’t hang on to Dobson up the hills.

As the SBCC train went through the field, a few of us managed to hang on for a bit; Dobson, Bakker and me.

Dobson was the first to drop off when an early morning trainer session, school all day, then the gym, finally caught up with her near Long Lane.

Bakker’s phoopha valve blew up the hill near Barwite Road.

And after we’d finally caught and passed the Limit group (really good ride by Eisner and Jagger) I actually started to think I might be a chance.

Then the SBCC boys accelerat-

ed after Possums and I just simply wasn’t strong enough to keep up with them going downhill.

Lay took the win, in 36 minutes and 20 seconds, ahead of Kirby and Garrett.

I managed to hang on for fourth ahead of Bakker; then came Eisner, Jagger, Dobson, Bateup and Pearce made into the final spot of the top ten.

A huge thanks to our team of marshals and commissaries for braving the cold, wet conditions to allow us to safely race - Mel, Janine, Belinda, Cam, Tim and Alex.

Plus thank you to our ‘official’ club photographer, Tony Copland, for braving the cold, wet conditions to produce the evidence that we’re all as hard AF… or silly…or both?

UP THE HILL: Steve Curnow and Ian Conrick racing in the rain.

PHOTO: Tony Copland

Eagles soar for annual awards night

■ From back page

FOOTBALL AWARD WINNERS BELOW

Seniors (Seniors; Donors; Player)

Best & Fairest sponsored by Byrne FamilyDirk Koenen

Runner up sponsored by Mansfield

Printing- Ben Christopher

Most Consistent sponsored by Peter

Sheahan Memorial- Cody George

Best 1st year player sponsored by

Alliance- Ben Les

Coaches Trophy sponsored by Chad

Owens- Harry Mahoney

Leading Goalkicker sponsored by

Foodworks- Ben Christopher

Hard Hat - Tom Dunstan

Reserves

Best & Fairest sponsored by Mansfield

Printing- Colby Demasi

Runner Up sponsored by Marks IGA-Mac

Green

Most Consistent sponsored byS&H

Mahoney- Tom Sheahan

Most Determined sponsored by

Alliance- Josh Stefanutti

Coaches Trophy sponsored by Jacob

Howes - Gus Van Winden

Leading Goalkicker sponsored by Simon

Chalk Memorial Jacob Howes

Hard Hat- Billy Dunstan

U18s

Best & Fairest sponsored by Mansfield

Printing- Lochie Pentony

Runner Up sponsored by Foodworks -

Paddy Dunstan

Most Determined sponsored by Alliance

Ben Reardon

Most Consistent sponsored by Marks IGAOscar Cleeland

Coaches Award sponsored by David

Halliday- Angus Bolithoe

Leading Goal kicker sponsored by

Alliance - Archie Storer

Hard Hat- Dylan Lowry

Other Awards

King – Poole Memorial Trophy sponsored by E Tabor & B Patterson- Tom Dunstan

Tony Purcell Memorial Trophy sponsored by Purcell Family - Lochie Christopher

Best club person sponsored byMFNCBrad Van Winden

FULL LIST OF NETBALL AWARD WINNERS

A Grade

Best and Fairest sponsored by FoodworksNelle Cousins

Runner Up sponsored by Billy Mahoney

Electrical -Emily Hutchins

Coaches Award sponsored by Byrne Seed

Australia- Meg Mahoney

B Grade

Best & Fairest sponsored by Robbo’s GlassRebecca Sanderson

Runners Up sponsored by Home @ Alpine - Alicia Foster

Coaches Award sponsored by Billy Mahoney Electrical- Molly Rekers

B Reserve

Best & Fairest sponsored by Alpine CivilBrianna Kelly

Runner Up sponsored by Byrne Seed

Australia-Grace Evans

Coaches Award sponsored by BPE

Construction- Leonie Berry

Under 17

Best & Fairest sponsored by Taylor

Consulting Engineers - Jessica Dolling

Runner Up sponsored by Mansfield

Uniforms- Molly Dunn

Coaches Award sponsored by Parkridge AgEmma Witkiss

Most Improved sponsored by BPE

Construction- Brianna Weight

Under 15

Best & Fairest sponsored by Taylor

Consulting Engineers- Jaspa Robinson

Runner Up sponsored by Mansfield

Uniforms Sienna Kynnersley

Coaches Award sponsored by Parkridge AgAnnie Thomson

Most Improved sponsored byMansfield

Printing- Eva Clydesdale

Best Finals Player sponsored by Jim’s Test & Tag Mansfield- Jacoba Tanne

Other Awards

Irene Poole Memorial Award sponsored by E Tabor & B Patterson- Leonie Berry

Netballer of the Year 2022 sponsored by MU Gear- Leonie Berry

Captain’s medallions

17 & Under Captain - Molly Dunn

17 & Under Vice Captain - Jessica Dolling

15& Under Captain- Annie Thomson

15& Under Vice Captain- Ava Mahoney

Bowls rolls through wet weather

MANSFIELD BOWLS

By LYN FOOTS

WITH the weather being ordinary we only had social bowls on Friday with 24 players enjoying the day with the winners being Mick Walsh, Lyn Holland, Denis Sharpe and A Sherini 2 wins 34pts from Chris Laws, Shane O’Brien , Kris Humphrey and Alan Hatcher 1 win 23pts.

Sunday saw the Men’s 21Up semi finals with the winners in the morning rounds being George Peterson defeating Graham Smith 21/9, Nick Klien defeated Steve Spence 21/15, Mick Walsh defeated Denis Sharpe 21/11 and Mark Bettany defeated Trevor Thompson 22/3.

The afternoon games saw George defeating Mick 22/14 and Mark defeating Nick 21/16.

The final will be decided by the Match Committee on a date to be decided.

Also on Sunday we had the final of the Ladies Championship Pairs with the greens unplayable during the week.

After 18 ends, the best team on the day playing to the conditions.

Jenny Walsh and Enid Smith took an easy win over Lyn Foots and Kris Humphrey 24/12.

Congratulations girls.

PARTY TIME: (From left) Angus Bolitho, Ben Reardon, Archie Storer, Dylan Woods-Lowry, Lachie Pentony and Oscar Clelland.

WINNERS: (From left) Harry Mahoney, Cody George, Dirk Koenen, Ben Christopher and Ben Les.

VICTORY: (From left) Brianna Weight, Jessica Dolling, Molly Dunn and Emma Witkiss.

BIG SMILES: (From left) Meg Mahoney, Nelle Cousins and Emily Hutchins.

MENS FINALISTS: Mark Bettany and George Peterson.

LADIES WINNERS: Jenny Walsh and Enid Smith.

Delatite’s Toy soldiers keen for cricket season

CRICKET

By NATHAN DE VRIES

DELATITE paceman Lincoln

Toy will lead the A grade squad in the upcoming 2023/24 Wangaratta and District Cricket Association season, which commenced this weekend.

A relative newcomer to the region and the league, Toy played just four A grade matches for Delatite in the back end of last season after joining from Red Hill CC in the Mornington Peninsula Cricket Association.

Toy said he felt at home with Delatite, and the entire squad was eager to begin the season.

“The focus has been on preparation, being prepared for round one and for the rounds following,” he said.

“As the batters keep telling us, they’ve never hit this many balls in their lives before round one.

“We started probably five weeks ago, so we’ve had a really good build up into round one, and here comes the rain.

“We’ve been hitting as many balls as we can, bowling as many balls as we can, catching as many balls as we can – the more prepared we are for the season, I think, the better.

“We had a bit of a tough year last year which everyone knows, but we’ve got a few people back on this year and rallied the troops, and we need a game to know where we’re at.

“Internally, we feel like we’re a much more improved side.”

With new and returning players, plus the benefit of preparation on their side, Delatite are poised to shake up the A grade competition, with Toy eager to prove his leadership capabilities.

“The captaincy came about at the end of last year, I think they were in a bit of a transition period, with the older crew stepping aside and letting someone younger do it, but there was a bit of an age gap so that’s where I fit in at 29 as the per-

son to lead us from here,” he said.

“We’ve got Nick (Bogar) who’s jumped on board from Ferntree Gully Footballers CC - he’s building a house in Bonnie Doon and walked in off the street and we got lucky.

“He’s a top order batter who seems like he can whack them around, and he bowls some handy mediums as well.

“We’ve got a fair few spinners, so it might be spin to win.”

Delatite’s first outing – and Toy’s

Learn how to umpire cricket

THE Wangaratta and District Cricket Association has been busy in the off season putting together a program which assists juniors aspiring to umpire in the game of cricket.

The program is a three-step system which starts at junior level and hopefully progresses to senior level as the young umpire becomes more competent and confident.

Michael Hurley, WDCA umpire coordinator, said the best way to start on the road to becoming an umpire is by contacting the WDCA secretary or himself to express an interest in the program.

“From there it’s about starting to compile the basic understandings of the game and the role of the umpire and how to go about administering the rules and laws associated with the game you are involved in,” he said.

Cricket Victoria runs a junior umpiring academy occasionally, with the most recent session held back in September.

fifth match in the WDCA – will be against the ever-challenging Beechworth Wanderers at the white-picketed Lords Reserve in Mansfield.

“They’re a good side, I played them last year,” Toy said.

“They have a couple of quality bowlers and a couple of quality top order batters, I think they’re quite a good all-round team.

“It should be a good challenge first up to see where we’re at.”

It never stops but it pours out there

MEN’S GOLF

By TOM SWAN

LAST week’s rain put a real dampener on Tuesday and Wednesday’s golf but on Thursday, 19 brave souls fronted the course expecting to play in gumboots but were pleasantly surprised that the course had recovered rather well.

The bunkers were out of play but on the whole the course played pretty well considering the amount of rain.

The daily stableford competition

was played with Ian Jones scoring 37 points winning from Tom Nicol on a countback with Rod Sargent scoring 36 points to finish in third place.

These three equalled or better their handicaps which illustrates how well the course was playing.

On Saturday a terrific field of 47 played in drying conditions with Ian Jones continuing his fine form with his second win for the week with a score of 39 points which is 3 shots better than his handicap

which will surely come in this week.

With the numbers there were 2 divisions;

A Grade

1st: Steven McMahon 36 points (h/c 6), 2nd: Robert Healy 35 points (h/c 15) on a countback; 3rd: John Koraus 35 points (h/c 16).

B Grade

1st: Ian Jones 39 points (h/c 18), 2nd: Allister Bennett 37 points (h/c 26), 3rd: Jeremy Veneman 36 points (h/c 20).

This coming week marks the

start of the Mansfield Golf League on Thursday.

At the moment there are seven teams entered and it should be a great competition.

On Saturday the club championships start with the first two rounds being played on Saturday and Sunday with the final two rounds being played the following weekend (October 21 and 22).

Entries are still being taken, the entry sheet is outside the pro shop and we encourage all members to play.

Nationally, Cricket Australia has two programs available for umpire accreditation: Level One Community Officiating, and Level Two Representative Officiating.

For local umpire,s the Level One program would suffice - the Level Two program is directed at those wishing to umpire at higher levels,” Hurley said.

“The third aspect of the program is the on-field development.

“Initially, this occurs at junior cricket level where the young umpire is mentored with a senior experienced umpire.”

The WDCA has set up a special umpiring fee for junior cricket which is set at $40 per game.

Once a junior umpire has gained enough competence to move from juniors to seniors, the standard umpire fee rates would apply.

For an A grade match, the rate is $200 when umpiring solo and $180 for other grades.

For those interested in finding out more you could contact the WDCA secretary Wayne Cooper on 0439 494 027 or umpire coordinator Michael Hurley on 0438 029 959.

LEADER LINCOLN: Lincoln Toy (left) is keen to get stuck into the WDCA season, up against Beechworth this Saturday.

PHOTO: Melissa Beattie

Cheers to 50 years

BASKETBALL

By HALEY TUDOR-HARROP

THE Mansfield Eagles Basketball Club celebrated their 50th Birthday on Saturday at the Mansfield Dual Court Stadium in style.

The stadium was full and buzzing all day.

There were free clinics on offer for our Aussie Hoopers, U10s, U12s, U14s and U16s, all sponsored by Sportspower Mansfield.

Thanks to Nigel Kain and his boys, our CBL team and Shaun Langlands for hosting three point and agility competitions, with a number of

kids coming away with prize packs, donated by Basketball Victoria.

The stadium was buzzing all afternoon, with the canteen, raffle and merchandise tables being a popular spot for our guests.

There was club history on display with the young club members checking out photos of their parents and grandparents from their basketball days, the club has supported the generations of basketballers in Mansfield.

We heard about some of the club history from some of our past members, Bess Gillard, Cathy Parkes, Keith

Leydon and Andrew Hack.

We had an apology from John Eisner, a past president and terrific supporter of the club.

Member for Eildon Cindy McLeish kindly donated a hamper for our raffle and cut the cake with club President Adam Snell as the crowd sung happy birthday.

Thank you to all of our raffle sponsors and congratulations to all of our raffle winners.

Delatite Ford kindly supported our barbeque which kept everyone fed and looking forward to the season opener of the Country Bas-

ketball League Men’s game tipping off at 7pm.

The Mansfield boys put on an excellent game against the Albury Cougars, with a full grandstand of supporters, unfortunately going down to the Cougars on this occasion.

Get around Mansfield Eagles CBL team next weekend with their game against Wangaratta Warriors at Mansfield Dual Court Stadium, Sunday, October 15 at 12:30pm.

Thank you to all of those involved in ensuring a fun and successful birthday celebration.

A UNITED TEAM: Players, parents and supportes all had fun.

CUTTING THE CAKE: (From left) Adam Snell and Cindy McLeish did the honours.

SMILE: (From left) Lara Harrop, Grace Mongelli, Scout Gardner, Macey Thornton and Kate Mercieca posed for the camera.

SNAGS FOR LUNCH: (From left) Mark Keatch, Paul Gardner and Glenn Thornton put on a sasuage sizzle for all who attended.

HISTORY: (From left) Cathy Parkes, Bess Gillard, Andrew Hack and Keith Leydon told stories about the past of the club.

ALL AGES: There were clinics and competitions abound on the day.

READY TO CELEBRATE: Members of the community gatered at the Mansfield Dual Court Stadium.

U15 NETBALLERS

SHINE: (from left) SHINE: Annie Thomson, Annie Jaspa Robinson, Jaspa Sienna Kynnersley and Eva Clydesdale Clydesdale.

Eagles soar for soar for annual awards night annual awards

By HANNAH KENNELLY

MANSFIELD Football Netball

Club’s members traded in their boots and bibs for suits and stilettos last Saturday to celebrate their annual awards night.

Nearly 210 people gathered at the Mansfield Golf Club to acknowledge MFNC’s mammoth season and highlight the efforts of

several star players.

A Grade netballer Nelle Cousins , B Grade’s Rebecca Sanderson and B Reserves’ Briana Kelly won the club’s Best and Fairest awards.

Sportsperson of the Year nominee Jessica Dolling and U15’s Jaspa Robinson also took out the Best and Fairest award.

U15s’ coach Leonie Berry was one of the biggest winners of the

night, fresh off her GVL awards night success.

The decorated coach won the Irene Poole Memorial Award and the Netballer of the Year award.

Eagles senior footballer Dirk Koenen was another big winner, taking out Best and Fairest with teammate Ben Christopher claiming runner-up.

Christopher won the Leading

Goalkicker award for his phenomenal season.

However the biggest cheer of the night came for Eagles coach Chad Owens, who stepped down earlier this year.

Chad and his family were farewelled by the club and thanked for their tireless contribution.

The Eagles seniors premiership

dreams now lie on the shoulders of 2024 coach, Jack Hutchins.

Club President Ray Robinson said it was wonderful to celebrate the club’s achievements.

“Everyone looked brilliant and it was overall just a really great night,” he said.

“We are really looking forward to an even better 2024.”

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