MC260225SamReiher

PROMISING PATHWAYS: Scholarship recipients celebrate

and the Stinchcombe Foundation, with $25,000 awarded to

Phoebe Scott, Hunter

Scholar dollars funding

EDUCATION can be an expensive road to travel, but for four students from the Mans eld District, a helping hand is on the way.

The latest round of local scholarships will see $25,000 injected into their educational costs, easing the nancial burden and opening doors to new opportunities.

Since 2019, the Community Bank Mans eld & District Scholarship Program has helped local students take the next step in their studies.

With a total investment of $77,500 supporting 15 students so far, the program has made a tangible di erence helping young people pursue careers in psychology, law, global studies, midwifery, computer science, and even patisserie.

“This program is about breaking down barriers and making further

education a realistic option for local students,” said newly appointed branch manager Phil Camilleri.

“By supporting their ambitions, we’re not just helping individuals we’re strengthening the future of our community.”

This year’s scholarship recipients re ect the diversity of students and aspirations in the Mans eld District.

Phoebe Scott has been awarded a $10,000 scholarship to study a Bachelor of Arts at the University of Melbourne, majoring in Media and Communications with a minor in Criminology.

Charlotte Atherton, who aspires to become a solicitor, has received a $4000 scholarship to study a Bachelor of Laws (Honours)/Bachelor of Psychological Science at Monash University in Melbourne.

Kylie McCormack is studying a Diploma of Counselling through AIPC and was awarded the $1000 CUC bursary.

She hopes to make a meaningful di erence in the lives of children, their families, and the broader community.

This year, an additional $10,000 has been added to the scholarship pool through a new partnership with the Stinchcombe Foundation, which aims to support students pursuing hands-on, practical learning.

Local legend Maurie Stinchcombe, who passed away in March 2023, le a generous bequest to be used for community projects.

As a practical man himself, he wanted to encourage young people with a hands-on approach to life.

The rst-ever Stinchcombe Foun-

dation Scholarship has been awarded to Hunter Reeve, who impressed assessors with his skills in welding, farming, and even inventing.

“When Catriona and I were reading through the applications, it was clear that Hunter was the perfect t,” said James Wilson, who represents the foundation.

“We had planned to o er this scholarship in 2026, but Hunter’s application made it clear he was the right candidate to bring it forward to 2025.”

The scholarship recipients were announced on Thursday, 20 February, at the Mans eld Community Bank branch.

For more information about local scholarship opportunities, visit www.bendigobank.com.au/manseld.

the latest round of funding from the Community Bank Mansfield & District Scholarship Program

help local students pursue their education. Pictured (from le ): Phil Camilleri, Josh Anstee,

Reeve, Kylie McCormack, Catriona Wilson, James Wilson, and Roger Herbert.

Short stay levy slugs family violence victims:

VICTIMS eeing family violence are now facing an extra 7.5 per cent tax when booking shortstay accommodation, a change that has drawn criticism from State Member for Eildon, Cindy McLeish.

The short-stay levy, introduced by the state government in January, applies to Airbnb and other temporary accommodation options across Victoria.

The government said the tax would help address housing affordability and fund social housing, but concerns have been raised about the impact on those escaping dangerous situations.

Ms McLeish, said the levy is adding an unnecessary nancial burden on victims and the services supporting them.

“These services are doing their best to help the growing number of domestic violence victims, and they can’t a ord to be paying an extra tax,” she said.

“The victims eeing by themselves o en have very little and need all the help they can get getting back on their feet.

“Victims of family violence are certainly not having a holiday, they are looking to nd somewhere safe.”

The state opposition last year proposed an amendment to exempt family violence victims from the levy, but the government voted against it, something Ms McLeish said “was predictable and avoidable.”

ADDED BURDEN:

Victims fleeing family violence now face an extra 7.5 per cent tax on short-stay accommodation, a move criticised by State Member for Eildon, Cindy McLeish, who says it places unnecessary financial strain on those escaping dangerous situations.

She added that emergency accommodation is already di cult to secure, with many victims forced into motels due to a lack of available housing.

“I’m always hearing stories of those eeing family violence who can’t nd accommodation and too o en end up in motels,” said Ms McLeish.

In a media release last week, Ms McLeish referred to comments made by then-Attorney General Jaclyn Symes during parliamentary debate last year.

“These proposed changes are not able to be implemented in a workable way because anyone

could claim that they meet one of the exemption criteria, and it would be therefore impossible to verify that,” Ms Symes said at the time, adding that allowing exemptions would “completely undermine the purpose of the bill”, which was designed to boost long-term rental supply and support social housing.

However, according to the Victorian Tourism Industry Council, 40 per cent of short-stay bookings are for reasons other than holidays.

Ms McLeish said the tax puts additional pressure on people already in desperate situations.

“We have a government that, on the one hand, pretends to care about the most vulnerable members of the community, those escaping domestic violence, but in reality, they are happy to tax everyone to ll budget black holes,” she said.

“Accommodation is a key factor in women’s decision to ee family violence.

“They should not have to choose between a family violence crisis and a homelessness crisis.”

The state opposition has said it would repeal the levy if elected in 2026.

ROUND 20 of Festivals Australia is now open for applications, closing on 18 March 2025, for projects starting from 1 July 2025.

Festivals Australia funds engaging arts projects that invite community participation and audience engagement in regional and remote Australia.

Projects can include but are not limited to a parade, performance, workshop,

installation or exhibition.

The aim is to give people the chance to participate in or attend an arts experience at a festival, or a signi cant

one-o community celebration.

Festivals Australia will only fund a single project (not a range of unrelated activities) delivered at a festival or signi cant one-o community celebration in an eligible regional or remote location.

For more information visit https://www.arts.gov. au/funding-and-support/ festivals-australia.

Howqua Inlet Community Trail first stage completed

A PARTNERSHIP between council and community volunteers has delivered the rst stage of a new community trail in Howqua Inlet.

When all three stages are complete, the trail will provide a walking and cycling link between Howqua Inlet and the Howqua Valley Holiday Park.

The rst stage saw construction of a new trail between Edmanson Avenue and Barnetts Road, linking to the service road alongside Mans eld-Woods Point Road.

This project was initiated by the Howqua Inlet community.

In 2023 the Jamieson Community Group & Associated Bodies Inc. helped to secure funding from council’s Outlying Communities Infrastructure Fund for a feasibility study and design of the trail.

Council supported the planning work and provided construction materials such as gravel, culverts, and signage.

The trail was built by community volunteers who donated their time, equipment and skills.

Nick Hyslop, President of the Howqua Inlet & Macs Cove Community Group, thanked everyone involved for their support.

“The Community Trail began as a community dream – to create a safe and accessible path linking key local assets,” he said.

“Through hard work, collabo-

ration, and unwavering persistence, that dream has become a reality.

“With incredible support from Mans eld Shire Council, the generosity of local volunteers, and the guidance of Jamieson Community Group, we have successfully completed stage one.

“This project stands as a testament to the power of community, dedication, and shared vision.”

Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said the project was a successful partnership between council and the community.

“It’s fantastic to see community members taking the initiative to make a di erence in our shire, and council is proud to support them,” he said.

“We’re so grateful to everyone who donated their time to work on the community trail.

“We look forward to seeing people getting out and enjoying the path while we work to plan the next stages.”.

Council’s contributions included $10,000 through the Outlying Communities Infrastructure Fund as well as providing construction materials to a value of $5000.

Remaining signage for the rst stage will be installed in coming weeks.

TERRY MILLER CONCRETE TANKS

• All tanks are 2.26m (7’6”) in height

• All tanks walls are 130mm (5.2”) thick

• All foundations (tank floors) are 250mm (9.8”) thick

• Tanks are algae free

• Cool in summer

• Won’t blow away

The worst wedding reception you’ll ever go to… and everyone is invited! This fabulous 5-star experience has fun and mayhem bursting from the seams of a wedding dress, with entirely original comedy that pulls out all the stops – including quickre character changes and quick- re laughs.

If you enjoyed Faulty Towers you will LOVE Confetti & Chaos!

2ND APRIL

CONNECTION: Volunteers and council have completed the first stage of a new community trail in Howqua Inlet, creating a safer walking and cycling link for residents and visitors.

THURSDAY:

FRIDAY:

TUESDAY:

LAKE EILDON LEVELS

The wind of change is blowing

By MIKE SMITH

STORM clouds are gathering to the southwest of Mans eld, they lie over a secluded spot just north of Fawcett where the wind of change is blowing.

Some will protest while others will rejoice; a wind farm is coming to Mans eld Shire.

Tetris Energy, the team behind the proposed Puzzle Range wind farm, includes some of the same renewables experts who developed the Cherry Tree wind farm near Seymour over in Mitchell Shire.

Tetris Energy’s eyes have fallen upon an undulating patch of land just north of Fawcett in picking a spot for their next wind farm.

COURIER DETAILS

98

General/Advertising:

Classi eds: classi eds@nemedia.com.au

Editorial: 5733 1108 or edit.mcourier@nemedia.com.au

www.mans eldcourier.com.au

www.nemedia.com.au

Display

Windy, dusty, rocky farmland that straddles the border between Murrindindi and Manseld Shire, it is currently used for grazing cattle and sheep and a handful of alpacas.

According to VicGrid, the earmarked site is either a Tier 2 or a Tier 3 priority location for investigation into future renewable projects.

Tetris Energy has made contact with several landowners who, they say, own potentially suitable ridgelines near Puzzle Range.

Discourse has centred on the prospect of land owners hosting turbines upon their land.

The land owners, it seems, are amenable.

“We are currently working to identify hosting roles for local landowners who have expressed an interest in being

involved in the project, as well as looking at ways to minimise and mitigate impacts, both real and perceived, on the communities near these projects,”

Georgiana Garland, Tetris Energy Community Relations and Communications Manager, told the Mansfield Courier.

Tetris Energy has made contact with the Taungurung Land and Waters Council (TLaWC), introducing them to the project and beginning conversation with them on the proposed use of their traditional lands.

Furthermore, Tetris Energy will allow themselves to be guided by TLaWC’s renewable energy policy to ensure that the proposed Puzzle Range wind farm meets the strategic priorities of TLaWC as the traditional custodians of the land.

“Preliminary visual, ecological, noise and social studies have commenced and the results are

anticipated later in 2025,” added Ms Garland.

“The project will not be located on the approach to Mans eld and won’t encroach on the Alpine approach.”

Tetris Energy says it is targeting a capacity of up to 350 MW which will generate enough electricity to power 195,000 Australian homes, e ectively avoiding 475,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions each year.

To do that they will need to erect roughly 50 state-of-the-art turbines, likely between 130 and 160 metres in height.

Each turbine will take up 1.5 hectares but, Tetris Energy said the livestock grazing there now will be able to graze at the base of the turbines as they operate.

The construction of the wind farm will create 150 jobs with a focus on local procurement.

“Excitingly, we have already re-

ceived interest from local tradespeople about possible employment and will continue to take expressions of interest,” said Ms Garland.

Once the construction phase of the project is complete there will be 12 jobs at the site on an ongoing basis over the course of the wind farm’s 35 year life span.

Tetris Energy is a signatory of the Clean Energy Council’s Best Practice Charter and that the organisation says that they take community concerns regarding decommissioning seriously.

They say the decommissioning of a site sees turbines, o ces and any other infrastructure removed while roads and foundation pads are covered and the areas revegetated.

The size of the concrete footings at the base of each turbine varies dependent on the source.

■ Continued page 5

Shaun McMahon (SENIOR JOURNALIST)

A SECLUDED SPOT: Preliminary visual, ecological, noise and social studies have commenced and the results are anticipated later in 2025.

PROJECT TO BRING WIND FARM TO MANSFIELD SHIRE WELL UNDERWAY

■ From page 4

A practical assessment by icubed consulting, a team of Australian wind farm engineers and designers, states a small and lightly reinforced turbine foundation needs to be 20 metres in diameter, constructed from 500 cubic metres of concrete poured around steel reinforcement, weighing 60 tonnes in total.

This is a conservative estimate; other sources say foundations need to be twice the quoted size and up to three times the quoted weight to support modern turbines.

When questioned about what bene t the Puzzle Range wind farm will bring the region, Tetris Energy had much to say but, given the early stage the project is at, they were not wedded to any one idea.

“Early conversations with local community members have provided a range of insightful sug-

JUST NORTH OF FAWCETT: A small farming community is in consultation with Tetris Energy over a proposed wind farm project that could erect fi y 130-160m turbines.

gestions,” Ms Garland said.

“Including sharing revenue from a turbine in nearest proximity to each community for local initiatives such as sporting, landcare and community groups.

“Tetris Energy’s view on what bene t sharing looks like from Puzzle Range is open, and could include building local capacity, improving access to social services and infrastructure, livelihood development and skills transfer.

“Tetris Energy aspires to provide local communities with free or discounted electricity, and would love to see the broader region powered by clean energy.

“Given the Puzzle Range project is still in its infancy the Tetris Energy team have not yet had the detailed conversations with the community that will be required to inform the speci c bene t sharing approach, and we expect this to commence later in 2025.”

Cindy McLeish, State Member

for Eildon, has called for transparency from Tetris Energy.

“More information needs to be provided so that people know exactly what is happening in their own backyard,” she said.

“Community members are always going to be concerned with a project like this and understandably so, there will be di erent views within the community.”

Andrew Paxton, Director Community and Development Murrindindi Shire Council, echoed that call by requesting that Tetris Energy engages with both Murrindini and Mans eld Shire councils

“We have not been consulted by Tetris Energy and do not yet have speci c details about the project.

“Council encourages Tetris Energy to engage meaningfully with both councils and the local community, ensuring transparency, ethical engagement, and responsiveness to community concerns.

“Building trust and securing genuine community support is essential for any large-scale development.”

Mayor Cr Steve Rabie, speaking on behalf of Mans eld Shire Council, said council had received no information that would support an advocacy position being considered.

“Council is not the responsible authority for new planning permit applications for wind energy generation facilities of 1 megawatt or greater,” he said.

“The Victorian State Government assesses permits with the Minister for Planning being the responsible authority for these applications.

“Council will await the outcome of the application to the state government.

“If community members are concerned, council will continue to advocate on the community’s behalf.”

CHERRY TREE WIND FARM: The wind farm near Seymour in Mitchell Shire was met by some opposition but has been operating now for five years.

PHOTO: Zenviron

CALLS FOR TRANSPARENCY: Cindy McLeish, State Member for Eildon, has called for transparency regarding the proposed wind farm.

PHOTO: Tetris Energy

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

What a waste

AS we enter the tail end of the 2024/2025 cricket season, the results of council’s “temporary trial” to assess the suitability of College Park for junior cricket are already in.

And it’s our kids that are the losers.

Despite claims by council to the contrary, College Park remains an unsuitable and unsafe venue for our young players.

There are no easily accessible toilets, change facilities, or drinking water (all are located over 250m away).

Parking and storage are inadequate.

The playing surface is patchy and uneven.

There is no shelter or seating to speak of.

Meanwhile, Mans eld Recreation Reserve, our community’s most heavily maintained sports oval, is in peak condition.

Yet it remains virtually unused all summer long.

What a waste!

Where’s the “fair access” and scal responsibility in that, Mans eld Shire Council?

Tom Dunlop, Emma Harley, Nancy Heaysman, Natasha Logan, Keira McDonagh, Lee Riley, Heather Smith, Jon Steele, Sheridan Strong Concerned parents and carers of DCC under 12s

Where can I park?

11:15AM Monday morning at the doctors rooms and hospital and no chance of a parking spot anywhere, nothing along the front, the median strips, the Anglican Church or near the school.

With lots of people moving to Mans eld and looking for a new doctor, the parking situation here will only get a lot worse.

Let’s hope a solution can be found before the multitude of new housing estates are developed.

Mary Parker, Mans eld

The chaos of Melbourne

MANSFIELD is a great place to live. Residents do not need the chaos of Melbourne here any time soon.

BATTING ON: The ongoing saga of the Delatite Cricket Club’s Under 12s being forced to relocate to College Park from the Mansfield Recreation Reserve for the 2024/25 season continues with the club and parents voicing their concerns about safety and access to facilities. The club is meeting with Mansfield Shire councillors on March 4 to discuss. One of the juniors in action in training last week.

Out-of-control youth crime, tra c, roadworks, noise, pollution, and high-density housing estates all contribute to the stress of living in an everexpanding city.

The Lake-High Great Victorian Walk for Autism (Courier, 12/2/25) on Saturday, 22nd March, as well as other dedicated groups, are great examples of the caring environment that exists here. To support the walk – https:// lake-high.org.au.

Mary Parker, Mans eld

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.

Here for You

Stay Safe This Summer!

What is Japanese Encephalitis (JE) Virus?

JE is a serious mosquito-borne illness that poses a health risk across Victoria especially during the middle of the warmer months It can cause severe neurological symptoms and while rare it can be serious Protecting yourself from mosquito bites is the best way to reduce the risk of JE

Email: edit.mcourier@nemedia.com.au.

Protect sleeping areas with mosquito nets or screens to prevent bites while resting

FEBRUARY REPORT (Be On the Look Out)

Avoid outdoor activities at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active

Use mosquito repellent containing picaridin or DEET on exposed skin

Remove standing water around your

as it provides breeding

Vaccination is an important way to protect against JE Vaccination is available free-of-charge for specific groups, including those living in high-risk LGAs in northern Victoria Check your eligibility on the www health vic gov au/infectious-diseases/japaneseencephalitis

Vaccines are available to eligible people through participating councils GPs and local pharmacies near you Please note that may be a consultation fee to administer the vaccine check with your chosen provider when you are booking More info can be found here, https://www gvhealth org au/publichealth-unit/japanese-encephalitis/

Mpox is a health risk, and it’s important to stay informed and take precautions

Symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, and a rash can appear and anyone in close contact with an infected person is at risk Avoid sharing personal items like towels or clothes, practice good hygiene, and get vaccinated if eligible Mpox symptoms typically resolve within a few weeks, but in more severe cases, it can lead to complications requiring medical attention

Measles continues to be a concern in Victoria, with cases reported from overseas travellers It is highly infectious and can cause serious complications, including pneumonia and other health issues Monitor for symptoms if exposed, and visit www health vic gov au for exposure sites and vaccination details

For the latest updates, advice, or support, visit the Better Health website or contact the GV Public Health Unit at 1800 313 070 Protect yourself and others by staying informed and following health recommendations

PHOTO: Lynn Elder

VOLUNTEERS from the Jamieson Community Group rolled up their sleeves for a working bee at the Police Paddock last week.

The e ort brought together a number of locals re ecting the town’s strong commitment to preserving its shared spaces.

Freddie Leong

Council joins Victorian Energy Collaboration

MANSFIELD Shire Council has agreed to sign up for 100 per cent renewable energy with the endorsement of a contract agreement with the Victorian Energy Collaboration (VECO) at the February council meeting.

Council will be the 61st local government to sign up to the agreement for the supply of 100 per cent

renewable energy from 1 July 2025 until 31 December 2030.

Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said this is one way council was achieving value for money and implementing its Climate Action Plan.

Council has a commitment in its Climate Action Plan to transition to 100 per cent renewable energy by 2025.

The contract with VECO ful ls this objective.

Mans eld Shire Council’s current energy contracts expire on 30 June 2025.

“Going in on a collaborative purchase of energy like this means we know we’re getting the best bang for our buck with ratepayers money,” said Cr Rabie.

These contracts cover all of council’s corporate operations, including council buildings, recreation reserves, sporting facilities, public lighting and libraries.

Moving to renewable energy is the largest climate mitigation measure council can undertake directly.

Electricity consumption represents 56 per cent of council’s corporate emissions (excluding some street lighting), equating to approximately 580 tonnes of carbon.

For more information about council’s Climate Action Plan, go to www.mans eld.vic.gov.au/ClimateActionPlan.

PHOTOS:

Water, water everywhere (not a drop to spare)

WITH the hot, dry conditions this summer, our open spaces, parks and gardens have been doing it tough.

Council o cers have been watering and mulching street trees but even the most mature trees are suffering in the recent dry conditions.

These dry conditions mean we all need to be mindful of how we utilise water.

For example, during the recent heat wave in early February GVW and Council worked together to manage the demand by proactively reducing usage in parks and gardens, this ensured there was adequate water during this period.

This was also actively supported by some local water carting businesses who went out of their way to assist.

Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said this dem-

onstrated the balancing act required to help with responsible water use.

“Our parks and gardens are well loved and we know how important green, open spaces are to our community,” said Cr Rabie.

“Sometimes, for periods of time, we are asked to support responsible and sustainable water usage by shutting down sections where we would usually water.

“This impacts our ovals and other public spaces.

“It’s a balancing act.

“We operate by watering in sections to systematically and strategically target the open spaces, recreational reserves and other areas that need it most.

“At the same time, our parks and gardens crew are out trying to make

sure street trees have all the water they need to survive as well.

“If you have a street tree out the front of your place, we’re asking you to please give it some water if you can.

“If you’re watering your garden, it doesn’t take much to give some love to your street tree.

“We’re out there as well but in these conditions, even mature trees are suffering and need all the help they can get.”

GV Water is the water authority for Mans eld shire.

For drinking water and wastewater inquiries you can visit www.gvwater. vic.gov.au or call 1800 454 500.

Contact council if you have questions about street trees by calling (03) 5775 8555.

Your Council - Your News

matters

Council is looking for dedicated, responsible individuals from our community to help ensure the safety of children as they travel to and from school As a School Crossing Supervisor, you’ll be a vital part of our Community Safety team helping to create a safe environment for children and families while being compensated for your time

For further information please visit mansfield vic gov au or contact our Local Laws Officer at (03) 5775 8596

you have finished your shopping or caught up with friends for a coffee the bus will take you home again departing from Erril Street at 11.30am.

Council partners with Fallons Bus Service to offer a low fare of only $6 for the return trip

To book your ride in to town, phone Council on (03) 5775 8555

Whi field Ro d Sh r

Mansfield Whitfield Road Shared Path Concept Plan

The concept plan for a new shared path on Mansfield-Whitfield Road is available for feedback The proposed 2 5m wide gravel path runs from Kareen Court to Maple Tree Boulevard extending the existing link to Mansfield To view the plan and give feedback, visit engage.mansfield.vic.gov.au Please submit your feedback by 18 March 2025

Special Rates and Charges Policy

When considering infrastructure related projects a Special Charge Scheme will be considered by Council where there is an upgrade or an expansion to infrastructure required and a demonstrated willingness from property owners to make a financial contribution

Council's Special Rates and Charges Policy outlines how this contribution is raised from property owners who are likely to receive special benefit from infrastructure improvements in a fair, equitable, consultative and consistent manner

Community members are invited to review the draft revised Special Rates and Charges Policy and provide feedback at engage.mansfield.vic.gov.au by 5pm Friday 28 February

Fire Restrictions NOW IN FORCE

The Fire Danger Period (FDP) began in Mansfield Shire on 18 November 2024 Find out what you can and can't do during the declared Fire Danger Period or on days of Total Fire Ban at cfa.vic.gov.au/can

Haines calls for supermarket Ombudsmen

DR HELEN Haines has called for a fair deal at the checkout and the farm gate.

The Independent Federal Member for Indi wants the next Parliament to deliver strong powers to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) to rein in corporations that abuse their market power.

Continuing her work to address the high cost-of-living, Dr Haines has committed to push for broad divestiture powers and a Supermarket Ombudsman to protect consumers and primary producers.

Dr Haines does not believe that current laws can break up big operators that are abusing their power.

Australia, she says, must catch up to other countries.

“We are all feeling the squeeze of rising costs, especially at the supermarket,” Dr Haines said.

“Coles and Woolworths collectively control two-thirds of the grocery sector and made more than $1 billion in a er-tax pro ts last nancial year.

“The ACCC is already taking Coles and Woolworths to court allegedly misleading customers, but we need a Supermarket Ombudsman to help re-set the power imbalance between the major supermarkets, suppliers and consumers.”

Dr Haines said a Supermarket Ombudsman is necessary to regulate the operation of the Food and Grocery Code of Conduct, with powers to create binding determinations, issue infringement notices and refer investigations to the ACCC for court action.

“A new mandatory code of conduct is coming into e ect for the grocery sector, but there is no independent gure in place to uphold the code and proactively address breaches.

“The current model still largely enables the supermarkets to select their own umpire.

“It’s akin to marking your own homework and I think will end up being ine ective and exploited.

“Ultimately, it will be consumers and suppliers who are still short changed.”

“An independent Supermarket Ombudsman would hear complaints directly from consumers and suppliers and have tools to take quick and e ective action when necessary.”

Calls for a Supermarket Ombudsman or a similar position have been supported by the National Farmers Federation, Australian Dairy Farmers Limited, AusVeg and the Australian Food and Grocery Council.

Dr Haines is also backing new,

broad divestiture powers to give the ACCC the power to break up big companies if they abuse their market power or engage in conduct that decreases competition and hurts consumers.

“Australia has very concentrated markets and we need to make sure the big players aren’t abusing their power over consumers and smaller competitors.”

“We want successful businesses in Australia, but right now bigger pro t margins come at the expense of fairness and it’s bad for consumers, bad for farmers, and bad for the economy.”

“We need broad powers that give the ACCC the big stick they need to rein in corporations that are abusing their power, without carve outs. This would send a message to big business to clean up their act or face big consequences.

“Our current laws aren’t strong enough and enable companies to hike their prices or squeeze suppliers because they know they have the upper hand.

Dr Haines said the ACCC needs broad powers that could force divestiture in any sector but in pointed to the food and grocery, aviation or banking sectors as concentrated sectors where a lack of competition worked against consumers getting a better deal.

Soccer friendly crosses cultural divide

By LYNN ELDER

IT is called the beautiful game, but soccer is also regarded as being a universal sport that crosses all boundaries as the two matches played locally between Mans eld and Shepparton displayed in volumes on Saturday.

The pre-season “friendlies” played at Mans eld’s College Park was a collaboration between the Mans eld branch of RAR (Rural Australians for Refugees) and the Mans eld Soccer Club.

RAR’s Marie Sellstrom and social soccer club member Bryn Jones worked together to make this what they hope to be an annual event happen on the weekend a er a hiatus from before COVID.

The day kicked o literally with two matches, the rst at 11.30pm being the women’s

competition and the men’s game at 1.30pm.

The players included individuals from the Shepparton refugee community, including a large contingent from Afghanistan.

Mans eld is home to the Rezayee family also from Afghanistan with one member playing in the women’s and the other in the men’s for the hometown host.

Afghanistan is considered a strong contender in World Cup soccer and this passion was replicated on the eld on the weekend.

Saturday’s matches attracted 70 away players and their supporters to Mans eld.

Despite the summer heat for what is generally a winter sport there was spirited competition and good humour on display.

Bryn was also among the on- eld action describing

it as “a great game” for the Mans eld men’s side, “with a few of us nding the back of the net and having them at ve to two,” he said.

“Unfortunately, Shepparton fought back, and they

beat us six goals to our ve.

“Stand out performance from our men’s team was goalkeeper William Wettenhall.

“All our girls played really well as a new team and had

great fun but went down nine goals to two.”

According to Bryn there are already discussions about taking two teams to Shepparton in September for a post season match.

For Bryn, an advocate for the social side of the local soccer club it is about being accessible to all players of any tness and skill levels.

Hosting friendly games like this continues to build community and have massive mental and physical health bene ts he said.

Between the matches the hard working Mans eld Apex Club provided a sizzling barbecue of halal sausages with salad for lunch to add to the multicultural feel of the day.

Both RAR and the Manseld Soccer Club wanted to thank Apex for their generous contribution to the success of the day.

(Voluntary)

Country Universities Centre Ovens Murray Ltd (CUC-CM) has a vacancy for a Board Member to serve on its voluteer Board.

Expertise in law, cyber security, finance, governance would be highly regarded.

Applicants are reqested to provide a written application outlining:

• Why you wish to join the board

• Your community involement

• What you can contribute to the CUC-OM Ltd Board.

Please attached a copy of your resume and email to degrees@cucovensmurray.edu.au.

Applications close Friday 28th March, 2025

Learn more about CUC Ovens Murray and our strategic plan by visiting www.cucovensmurray.edu.au or contact the Board Chair - Jacqui Bramwell 0409 197 620 for further information.

Bryn and Marie con rmed plans for the friendly competition to be an annual event with Shepparton to host next year’s matches as a warmup prior to the start of the ocial season.

“We ran a similar event more than three years ago and the players from Shepparton were really excited to be here today,” said Marie.

“It is also a cultural exchange, getting to know other rural areas and meeting di erent ethnic groups in Mans eld.

“Sport is a great leveller and it is great for Shepparton and Mans eld to have this opportunity, and I hope this goes from strength to strength.

“RAR is appreciative to the Mans eld Soccer Club for providing family friendly activities between both centres.”

Mansfield’s women’s first outing against Shepparton was an opportunity to test their skills.

BROTHERS IN ARMS: The two men’s sides Mansfield and Shepparton pose for a group photo before the start of their “friendly” game.

UNITED: Mansfield Soccer Club’s women players with the Shepparton female players last weekend.

FULL FLIGHT: Mansfield gives chase in soccer match against the visitors on Saturday.

GAME ON:

WIN THE BALL: The competition was tight in the men’s soccer Mansfield. PHOTOS: Lynn Elder

Marsha Grimwade remembered in park side memorial

FAMILY members and friends of Marsha Grimwade (nee Turnbull) gathered for a memorial service in one of her favourite haunts, the Mans eld Botanic Park, on a hot summer’s day earlier this month surrounded by nature which she loved.

Marsha who passed away on November 10, 2024, was the wife of Sir Andrew Grimwade who died on January 30, 2023, aged 93.

Marsha Grimwade

Born: July 23, 1937

Died: November 10, 2024

As newly weds the couple settled at Andrew’s picturesque property, Green Valley overlooking Lake Eildon a er their marriage in 1994.

Her sons Dan and Toby Evans (from a previous marriage), who organised the special tribute made the trip from England where they reside to celebrate Marsha’s life with family and the many locals who knew their mother.

The service was an opportunity to complete the picture of Marsha described by some as “forthright,” “adventurous,” “ ercely loyal” and “not one to su er fools” but also one who formed strong connections and stood up against anything she didn’t believe was right.

Her eldest brother, 91 year old Shann Turnbull, travelled from Sydney and shared his recollections of the early years as children growing up in Launceston, Tasmania.

There were three siblings Shann, Hamish (deceased) and Marsha whose parents were Elizabeth (nee Frost) and Dr Reginald ‘Spot’ Turnbull.

Shann described the twostory home located in one of the main streets of the city on a quarter acre block where his sister Marsha Marshall Turnbull began her life in 1937.

It was also the site of their father’s consulting rooms for his doctor’s practice.

Dr Turnbull was not only a highly respected doctor but went on to be a trusted politician as the rst independent senator in Australia in 1962.

Shann spoke of the disruption caused by World War

HAPPY TIMES: Andrew and Marsha Grimwade were much loved members of the Mansfield community. PHOTO: Supplied

Two and family separations which included siblings.

Marsha took up horse riding and later unexpectedly embraced ballet dancing.

At age nine Marsha with Shann, on a trip to the mainland, were taken to Mt Buffalo to ski but both failed miserably.

Back in Tasmania, Marsha later developed skills as a competent skier and in 1951 joined the Ski Tour Association and won a women’s championship in skiing.

Her later schooling was at Toorak College in Melbourne with numerous trips home during holidays.

In 1956 when she was 19, Marsha went on a European skiing holiday and then later to work in London where she met the father of her sons, Dan and Toby.

Dan described their mother’s life like being a play in three parts, with him and his brother present for the second act.

This was also Marsha’s “rebellious period” and a time when she was hugely untethered by the restrictions of her earlier life.

Dan said she was funny, wry, naughty and judged on merit.

He laughed saying what made you OK in Marsha’s eyes was never clear, but it could simply be she liked your dog.

Family and friends gathered for a

in

But when it came to her boys, Marsha would always take their side in anything they did.

When things fell apart in the United Kingdom Marsha moved back to Australia around 1989/1990.

By that time Toby was in the British Army and Dan was at university, so her sons remained in the UK.

Toby did, however, stay with Marsha and Andrew during 1995 to 1996 while completing his MBA at the Melbourne Business School.

This was the start of the third act and what Dan believed was the most ful lling time of Marsha’s life.

Meeting Andrew Grimwade was a union that brought out the best in both of them; they were well matched and bounced o each other.

Her ability to take on new challenges was a sign of renewed con dence.

Toby also thanked the Mans eld community for what was the happiest time in his mother’s life.

When Marsha moved to the district, she already had family connections with Catherine Ritchie’s (nee Osborne) family.

Catherine shared some of

and provided

those happy memories.

Mans eld’s Ross Martin recalled spirited “debates” and Marsha’s love of vanilla slices he would buy at Café 41.

Another local who was able to complete act three of Marsha’s life was Joan Tehan who knew Marsha and Andrew for more than 30 years.

Marsha loved roaming the rolling hills of Green Valley, walking her blue heeler dog Matilda each day to check on the cattle.

She was an excellent judge of cattle.

Even husband Andrew admitted she was a better judge of bulls than he was.

The farm welcomed many family members and friends from Melbourne to stay, including Marsha’s father from Tasmania who was obviously proud of his daughter.

Later Marsha and Andrew decided to build a home in Mans eld on the banks of Fords Creek.

It was a challenging site with dramatic uctuations in creek levels, but it gave them privacy in the heart of town as well as sensational views to the Botanic Park.

Marsha’s architect son, Dan, did an excellent job from the northern hemisphere cleverly designing a

house that was a true re ection of the Grimwade’s lifestyle and well adapted to the site.

With her inherent love of art, music and gardening, Marsha created a home where friends have enjoyed many hours looking across to parkland surrounded by artwork mostly gathered by Marsha.

Her cultured background and social inquisitiveness sat easily in the rural life she led in Mans eld.

She always loved her trips to the theatre in Melbourne and was also an intrepid traveller.

A woman of high intellect with many talents, she was respected and loved within the community according to Joan.

Marsha was outgoing and enjoyed the passing parade, be it a men’s morning co ee group, a young mum pushing the pram or an old timer sitting on the bench seat near the newsagent.

Marsha and Andrew had a ritual each morning of walking down the main street to the post o ce to collect their mail, returning via the opposite side of the street and collecting their newspaper.

Nothing escaped Marsha’s eagle eye and with her curi-

ous nature she was happy to join in groups, picking up local gossip and matters she thought needed attention.

When Marsha heard that poker machines were to be introduced into the centre of town she decided action was needed to protect the vulnerable people of Mans eld.

Then in her seventies, she approached Tony and Joan Tehan to help run a campaign to stop the proposal.

Other friends joined the team, and the council supported their case with a strong and convincing recommendation to oppose the proposal.

The developer took the matter to VCAT (Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal) but pulled out just before the case was heard.

Marsha was inspired to take a keener interest in what was happening locally.

She made it her business to cultivate a relationship with the Mans eld shire’s parks and gardens sta , suggesting places where trees were needed and sometimes agreeing to fund any plantings where the shire budget wouldn’t allow.

Despite her busy life, something always foremost in Marsha’s mind was her boys and their families living in England.

Joan recalled how Marsha on her return home from trips abroad would be bubbling from being in their company and seeing how the grandchildren had grown each trip.

“So, as we wander around Baldry Street and the parklands opposite their former home, we will be seeing trees that Marsha and Andrew have instigated and the views that they created around their creekside home – a type of borrowed landscape that bene ts all,” Joan concluded. As the strains of “Ain’t Misbehavin” by Fats Waller faded away, family and friends toasted the memory of Marsha Grimwade with a glass of local bubbles to a life well lived.

As

FOND MEMORIES:

memorial service for Marsha Grimwade

the Mansfield Botanic Park

reflections of her life. Catherine Ritchie (le ), Shann Turnbull, Ross Martin, Toby and Dan Evans, and Joan Tehan. PHOTO: Lynn Elder

GROUP EFFORT: Sam Binzer, Tectonic Civil, Member for Eildon Cindy McLeish, Phil Camilleri, Mansfield and District Community Bank with community members from the Merton Recreation & Memorial Hall Reserves Committee Ross Minikhanov and Suzanne Glynn along with Margaret FitzGerald.

Skate park a triumph for Merton community

By EMMA OLIVER

THERE was an impressive turnout for the o cial opening of the Merton Skate Park on Saturday, with Deputy Mayor James Tehan and local Member for Eildon Cindy McLeish relishing the opportunity to cut the ribbon on the newest piece of infrastructure at the Merton Recreation Reserve.

The reserve was transformed into a pop-up celebration complete with local DJ Felix Smith playing the tunes, a sausage sizzle hosted by members of the Merton CFA, and give-aways donated by skate brand Yuki Threads along with a professional skateboard contributed by Mans eld skate boarding champion Hayley Wilson.

Attendees took the opportunity to try out the new skate park, with numerous community members taking to the ramps before and after the o cial speeches.

Organised in collaboration with

the Mans eld Youth Committee and FReeZA, councillors Tim Berenyi and Bonnie Clarke joined CEO Kirsten Alexander and deputy mayor James Tehan to congratulate the community on driving such a worthwhile project.

Funding from the state government’s Regional Development Victoria, the Mans eld and District Community Bank and the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal made the vision a reality, with contractors Sam Binzer from Tectonic Civil along with Taylor Engineering both thanked at the opening event for delivering such an impressive piece of infrastructure.

“This project has been a true labour of love for our community, and the opening day celebrated the collective e ort that has gone into creating a safe and vibrant space for local youth and families,” said Merton Recreation & Memorial Hall Reserves Committee chair Margaret FitzGerald.

HUB: Deputy mayor James Tehan took to the microphone to congratulate the community on the newest infrastructure at the Merton Recreation Reserve, adding to a new playground and refurbished toilet block.

COUNCIL SUPPORT: (From le ) Emma Kay, Youth Project O icer Disaster Recovery and Kaitlyn Demunk, Youth Peer Worker Disaster Recovery representing Mansfield Shire Youth were facilitating the give aways and activities on the day.

SATURDAY ARVO: Along with a bit of skate park action, there was music, refreshments and activities available at the event.

PUT TO GOOD USE: And with the skate park o icially opened it was time to take to the ramps.

Jamieson roll up their sleeves for events

JAMIESON ON THE LINE with Carmel Dixon

JAMIESON Primary School students have had a busy time with the annual fire drill.

Fire Warden Neil Wetmore, Jamieson CFA Captain Grant McRostie, and First Lieutenant Steve Garito were present.

The students were attentive as they followed the directives of the CFA officers, passing the drill with confidence.

Later, First Lieutenant Steve Garito presented the students with CFA show bags.

STUDENTS enjoyed the recent swimming trials in Mansfield with wonderful results.

They have been attending swimming lessons in preparation for the District Swimming Trials.

The school ran a ‘Dry Swimming’ Day last week, teaching students survival skills.

They learned how to wear life jackets correctly and apply life-saving techniques. They also practised dressing a person properly in a life-saving jacket.

On Friday, teacher Miss Harris walked with the students to the Rec Reserve to play cricket and hone their skills.

THE Jamieson community working bee last Tuesday was very successful, with 14

PRESENTATION: CFA Show Bag presentation at Jamieson Primary school.

volunteers working to clear the Old Police Paddock and repair fencing and gates.

This group never shies away from a hard day’s work.

be held on Saturday, March 15, in the Memorial Hall.

Bookings are essential at the primary school and the General Store.

This busy group has worked hard to keep Jamieson projects going and maintain a packed community calendar.

cars in Nash Street, Jamieson, to the delight of passing traffic and envious onlookers.

The Police Paddock looks splendid.

This week, the group will work on the entrance to Jamieson - the triangle at Bank Street and the exit at Perkins Street. They will be spreading mulch and preparing for planting.

It is a big undertaking that will enhance the entrance to the township.

JAMIESON Primary School fundraising Trivia Night will

Booking a table with family or friends (8–10 people) makes for a popular social event.

Entry is $10 a head, with door prizes, a raffle, and a silent auction.

Bring your own drinks and food and enjoy a fun night out in Jamieson.

NEXT Tuesday evening, March 4, the Jamieson Community Group meeting will be held at 7:00 pm in the Memorial Hall.

Upcoming events include the Jamieson Long Weekend celebrations, the School Trivia Night, the Labour Day Long Weekend, the Autumn Festival, the Easter Festival, and ANZAC Day. These events are being prepared for the enjoyment of local residents, holiday homeowners, and visitors.

LAST Sunday, members of the MR2 Car Club enjoyed lunch at the Courthouse Hotel.

Sixteen members arrived and parked their beautiful

It was a stunning display.

JAMIESON potters and ceramic artists are working hard to finish their pieces for the Potters Festival.

Their work will be on display on opening night, Friday, March 7, and they will also run a Jamieson Ceramics and Pottery stall in Mansfield on Saturday, March 8.

St Peter’s Anglican Church, Jamieson, will not be holding services during March.

There will be no service on Sunday, March 2.

JAMIESON Primary School

Principal Sonja Kalbitzer attended a social and informative meeting at Violet Town Primary School on Monday. She was there for a meetand-greet, as primary school principals maintain a close friendship and enjoy social contact, working together for the benefit of their students.

Next Wednesday, the monthly Jamieson Community Lunch will be held at the Courthouse Hotel. This will be the second luncheon in 2025, always a happy social gathering where friends, neighbours, and visitors can enjoy a break in a lovely setting.

ACROSS

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

1 Name a strong synthetic polyester fibre, resistant to creases (6)

7 What is a symbolic narrative (8)

8 Name an Austrian-born US film director, Billy ... (6)

9 Which preparation is used for beautifying the complexion (8)

10 What is a book size of sheets to form eight leaves (6)

11 Which object is supposed to possess occult powers (8)

14 What is a three-wheeler (8)

18 Which term describes persons of the English race (6)

19 To be decapitated, is to be what (8)

21 Salem is the capital of which of the United States (6)

22 What is a grubscrew also called (8)

23 An indigene is also known as a what (6)

DOWN

1 What is the temperature at which a given sample of air will have a relative humidity of 100 per cent (8)

2 What is said to excite the anger of a bull (3,3)

3 Name an alternative term for a drug (8)

4 What does a beggar seek (4)

5 What are some of the herons called (6)

6 Which Russian vehicle is drawn by a team of three horses abreast (6)

12 When one feels tired, one does what (4,4)

13 What is an absurdity known as (8)

15 Which term describes bailiffs (6)

E-QUATIONS 7

16 Edam is a type of what (6)

Letters have a number value

E-QUATIONS

Some values are in the right hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.

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

17 Name the manager of a shearing team (6)

20 What is a flattened, deep-bodied, spiny-rayed, marine food fish (4)

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 TRANSLUCENT

(a) Shining through (b) Of short duration (c) Leaping or passing across

2 WARRIGAL

(a) A wizard (b) The dingo (c) A maze of narrow passages

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:

Chopped straw (5)

Divide into four parts (7)

In pursuit (5)

IOC code: Portugal (3)

Keenly edged (5)

Made a mistake (5)

Mineral spring (3)

Pool stick (3)

Small bird (7)

Supplied nourishment (3)

Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.

CUC – Ovens Murray Mansfield continues to grow as student numbers increase

STUDENT EXPERIENCE: CUC student Fiona Hogarth finds the study centre a quiet, well-equipped space that allows her to focus without distractions. The convenient hours, reliable facilities, and amenities like a fridge and microwave make it an ideal place to study.

THE CUC OM – Mansfield Study Center service is funded by the Federal Government’s Regional University Study Hubs program to support regional students.

The Centre is supported and situated in the MACE building at 145 High Street and provides fast internet, dedicated study spaces, dual screen computers and printing, all FREE of charge.

Registered students can access the facilities from 5am to midnight, seven days a week, which is great when catering to the needs of students working full time and/or with caring responsibilities.

It is a QUIET and SAFE place to study.

One of the important components of the CUC model is to provide additional educational support to its registered members as they delve, often for the first time, into the tertiary education world.

Mansfield is very lucky to have highly skilled staff on-site to support students.

Tara Saville, the Learning Skills Advisor, is eager to help.

Tara is available on request and recently her hours have been extended so she can keep up with the demand.

“One of the great benefits of the CUC is being able to access faceto-face support which reduces the isolation which can come with online study,” said Tara.

“Students who have attended the centre have found it to be a positive easy-going environment that has really supported them to achieve their academic goals.”

Registrations have increased significantly this year with more people finding out about the centre and its free services providing flexible online study options for courses provided by universities and higher education providers.

Fiona Hogarth, who is a CUC student studying a Diploma in Counselling, said, “I can focus because I don’t have my kids with me.”

“It is comfortable, wellequipped, a separate place to study, reliable, got everything I need, and the hours are convenient.”

“It has a fridge and microwave, meaning I can bring something to eat, and importantly I don’t have to let the dogs in and out of the house.”

The CUC OM – Mansfield Study Centre takes great pride in providing locals with some of the key resources necessary for success, which are equivalent to what is available in some of the larger cities in Australia.

To find out more, visit www. cucovensmurray.edu.au or call Roger Herbert, the Education Coordinator, on 0427 975 126 or pop into the Centre.

Education in Focus

▶ COMMUNITY IN ACTION: Students pitch in with wood chopping as part of their weekly service program.

▶ HARD AT WORK: Timbertop students contributed over 5500 hours of community service last year.

◀ LENDING A HAND: Timbertop students assist with gardening and outdoor maintenance.

Timbertop students continue community service tradition

FOR more than 70 years, Geelong Grammar School’s Timbertop campus students have played an active role in supporting the Mansfield and District community.

Each week during Term 2,

students dedicate two days to assisting local residents, businesses, and organisations with a variety of tasks.

Fully self-sufficient, they camp out and cook for themselves, embracing the challenges of

outdoor living while contributing to the region.

Last year, students collectively completed over 5500 hours of service, taking on jobs such as gardening, wood chopping, raking leaves, and general maintenance.

For many, the experience was a highlight of their term, reflecting the generosity and impact of those who hosted them.

The program is now seeking new hosts for 2025.

Local residents, businesses, and organisations in need of support between late April and early June are encouraged to get involved.

For more information, contact timbertopcommunityservice@ggs. vic.edu.au.

Cubby Community Spirit Shines: Enhancing Our Outdoor Learning Environments

In a heartwarming display of community spirit, multiple families gathered for Cubby House’s working bee at Mansfield’s only not-forprofit Early Learning Centre Their collective efforts have significantly enhanced our outdoor learning environments The rejuvenation project, in partnership with Bendigo Bank, aimed to create a more engaging and educational outdoor learning environment for our children

One of the standout accomplishments of this initiative was the installation of a new chicken coop This coop has quickly become a favourite among the children, providing them with a firsthand learning experience about animal care It also enhances our outdoor educational activities, offering a unique opportunity for children to learn about responsibility and the natural world

The working bee saw families and educators coming together to top up all tan bark areas This not only ensured a safe and enjoyable play environment but also highlighted the importance of community involvement in maintaining our outdoor spaces The sandpits were refreshed, providing a clean and inviting area for imaginative play Our vegetable gardens received much-needed attention, and we are now proud to produce our own vegetables These fresh, homegrown vegetables are integrated into Cubby House’s educational programs, teaching children about healthy eating and sustainability

Special mention must be made of the dedicated Cubby House families who built the chicken coop and monkey bar frame These new additions have added exciting elements to our outdoor space, promoting physical activity and coordination among the children The creation of our enchanting fairy garden was a true labour of love Individual wooden fairy houses were crafted from wood stumps, succulents were planted into individual pots, and handmade fairies were created This magical and sustainable environment offers children a place to explore and let their imaginations run wild

The Early Years Learning Framework emphasizes the importance of outdoor play and learning in early childhood education Cubby House’s outdoor spaces now reflect these principles, providing children with a variety of learning experiences that foster their physical, social, and emotional development

The Framework highlights the significance of community and family involvement in children's learning, and our working bee exemplifies this beautifully The success of this working bee is a testament to the strong sense of community within our service The families and educators who participated not only contributed their time and effort but also demonstrated their commitment to creating a nurturing and stimulating environment for our children Their hard work has resulted in an outdoor space that is both functional and inspiring

As Cubby House looks forward to the future, we are excited about the continued collaboration between our service and the community The enhancements made during this working bee will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on our children s learning experiences We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the families and educators who participated, as well as to Bendigo Bank for their invaluable support Together, we are building a brighter future for our children, one outdoor space at a time

Education in Focus

Deliberate actions

By GLENN HOOD

AT

Mansfield Steiner School we value face-to-face interactions, conversations, and students making things by hand.

Developing fine motor skills through prioritising handwriting, craft, and art is as important as building gross motor skills through physical activity.

We value music education for all students in and of itself but also recognise the cognitive benefits learning an instrument brings to other areas of study.

The goal for our Year 11 & 12 students undertaking the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program is the ability to think and reflect critically in each subject area and, also, on their personal beliefs and intentions.

CREATIVE THINKING: Thea Hall (Year 7) creating a leather bookmark.

A willingness to work to understand the perspective of others is also a vital skill to develop well-rounded balanced thinkers.

The use of technology, particularly social media, is a challenge that we work hard to address.

We don’t use devices in Primary School, and we gradually introduce computers in Secondary School.

Technology, in its many forms, can be an amazing tool by which students can learn to do many creative and positive things, however, having the skills and awareness to ensure that you are a user of technology, and not used by it, is important.

These tools require sharp, critical, and creative thinkers to use them well.

Last year, we suggested that not allowing students to have a smartphone until at least the end of Class 8 was a good target for parents; however, new legislation aims to ensure social media platforms restrict use for children under 16 years of age.

Should we not be asking ourselves, why we are allowing our children smartphones at all, and, do they need them?

Doom scrolling, gaming into the early hours of the morning,

or obsessively swiping through to the next reel or YouTube clip is an addictive behaviour that is a planned result of the algorithms that command our attention and is counter to our desire to foster free and creative thinkers.

Access to the internet gives us access to the world, including the dark and anti-social corners.

We need to monitor the online space that our children inhabit to the same degree we look to ensure their physical safety.

There are eight competencies that children need to demonstrate before you consider giving them a phone with internet access (and, most likely, therefore, social media access).

Do they regularly demonstrate: responsibility for their things, responsibility at school, time management, communication skills, physical activity, engagement in life, impulse control, and parent connection?

At Mansfield Steiner School, the curriculum demands that our content and format are age-appropriate so that when students leave here, they are equipped with the skills to be truly free to craft their lives with initiative and purpose.

Steiner welcomes new teachers

By NICKY SANDERS

MANSFIELD Steiner School is incredibly grateful to be able to welcome diverse and talented new staff members in 2025.

Charlotte Dayman has a passion for art and design and is our new secondary and International Baccalaureate® diploma program art teacher.

Robyn Carrington is an accomplished musician who is guiding our violin and cello students brilliantly.

Tania Neil is an experienced Steiner teacher and musician and is taking our primary school classroom music along with a day in class six.

Amy Jewson returns from Timbertop and is a huge asset to our mathematics department.

Bella Moore has joined the staff to support our year nine outdoor education adventures.

Natasha Kavanagh and Isabel Kalin-Young are new to our kindergarten and

enjoying their work creating a nurturing environment for our smallest students.

Carol Watts has a long history as a parent with Mansfield Steiner and we welcome her now as a casual relief teacher, most recently spending three weeks with the school’s class four.

We appreciate the experience and zest for life that our new staff bring to our school community, and we hope to enjoy their company for a long time to come.

WELCOME FACES: New Steiner teachers Carol Watts, Charlotte Dayman and Bella Moore.

2024 Sportsperson of the year

Celebrating local sporting heroes at annual awards

SUPERSTAR netballer

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

Mia’s stellar season saw her lead Bonnie Doon to a grand final victory while excelling in netball at state and regional levels.

Gracious in her win, she credited her family, teammates, and coach— her mum—for their unwavering support.

“Bonnie Doon is one of the best clubs I’ve ever played with,” she said. The night recognised a host of local talent.

Connor GibneySchelfhout took home Junior Sportsperson of the Year for his achievements in archery, a sport he took up after watching Robin Hood.

Eight-year-old Zac Salmon entertained the crowd as he accepted the Encouragement Award for dirt bike racing.

The Bonnie Doon Football Club won Team of the Year, bouncing back from their 2022 grand final loss to claim redemption.

Leonie Berry was honoured with the Club Person and Administrator of the Year award for her dedication to Mansfield Eagles Netball Club. Now, with another year of outstanding performances, the 2024 awards promise to be just as competitive. Who will be named Mansfield’s next Sportsperson of the Year?

With a strong field of contenders, the stage is set for another unforgettable night at Mansfield Golf Club.

NETTING TOP HONOURS: Mia Tanner was crowned Sportsperson of the Year at last year’s Mansfield awards.

The people behind the scenes make clubs work Major Sponsor

Liam Delany

Michael Bretherton

FIRST QUARTER:

MANSFIELD ATHLETICS CLUB &

TENNIS ASSOCIATION

FIRST QUARTER SPONSOR: O’KELLY

WITH an impressive competition history in running, Liam Delany has been championing athletics across the Mansfield Shire and the greater northeast for a number of years.

Liam is a professional running coach and started a running group for all levels in 2021.

He spearheaded coaching at Mansfield’s Little Athletics Club in 2022 and has been a driving force behind the Mansfield Marathon which in its third year this month enticed upwards of 600 runners.

Earlier this year, he was instrumental to bringing the AusBike program to Mansfield.

He has also been coaching junior tennis at Mansfield Tennis Association.

Liam is a worthy first quarter nominee for Sports Club Person of the Year for his community focused approach and commitment to community health and wellbeing.

THIRD QUARTER:

MANSFIELD JUNIOR FOOTBALL CLUB

Rhonda Carpenter Andrew Cook

1 3 2 4

THIRD QUARTER SPONSOR: O’KELLY

FOR the third year in a row, Michael Bretherton has snagged a Club Person of the Year award nomination.

This year, Michael took on the role of Junior Football club President, taking over from Nick Berry.

With Michael’s guidance the junior club went from strength to strength with the U14s and the U17s soaring through to finals.

In 2023, he oversaw the initiation of the Mansfield Eagles Women’s Football team.

He continued to support the women’s team this year in their debut season establishing a pathway for senior female football players in Mansfield.

Michael’s regular footy reports to the Courier provided excellent, high-quality coverage filled with anecdotes, detail and high praise for his players.

If he wasn’t already a fantastic footy coordinator, he’d be welcome to a career in journalism.

SECOND QUARTER: MANSFIELD TENNIS ASSOCIATION

SECOND QUARTER SPONSOR: O’KELLY

RHONDA Carpenter is a tennis star on and off the court making her a well deserving nominee for the 2024 Club Person of the Year Award.

She has written the Mansfield Tennis reports for almost eight years since joining the committee in 2014 and participated in weekly games.

Rhonda’s longstanding dedication and commitment to the Mansfield Tennis club is insurmountable.

At the 2023 Mansfield Tennis Club annual general meeting Rhonda was awarded a lifetime membership.

Former president of the Mansfield Tennis Club and current committee member of the Mansfield Tennis Association (MTA) Brendan Grant said her commitment is an understatement.

“It’s more like an obsession,” he added.

Another MTA committee member Karyn Fraser said Rhonda is dedicated and involved in every aspect of the competition and social events including history and politics.

“Rhonda loves to write the articles for the paper and updating of the website to keep everyone informed,” she said.

FOURTH QUARTER: DELATITE CRICKET CLUB

FOURTH QUARTER SPONSOR: O’KELLY

ANDREW Cook from the Delatite Cricket Club is the fourth quarter nominee for the Clubperson of the Year. Andrew’s dedication to the club is evident through his efforts in junior cricket, where he spends countless hours supporting young players.

As coordinator of the local Woolworths Cricket Blast initiative, he has helped introduce cricket to many youngsters in an enjoyable and encouraging environment. On the field, Andrew plays for the senior B Grade side, balancing his playing commitments with his work behind the scenes, including writing handy (and timely) match reports for The Courier, keeping the community informed and engaged with the club’s progress.

Andrew’s contribution is a great example of the kind of work that keeps local sports clubs thriving.

Congratulations to Andrew on being the fourth quarter nominee for Rotary’s Clubperson of the Year.

2024 Sportsperson of the year

Peter Scales cricket

▶ DELATITE Cricket Club’s (DCC)

MAJOR SPONSOR: MANSFIELD GOLF CLUB JANUARY SPONSOR: EISNER’S AMCAL PHARMACY

Major Sponsors

Ella Mercieca basketball

 Young basketball sensation Ella Mercieca has been nominated for the 2024 Sportsperson of the Year Award following a standout 2023-24 season that saw her excel at state and national levels.

At just 14 years old, Ella was the leading scorer at the Victorian State Championships in Bendigo, with multiple 30+ point games and even a 40-point performance. She also played for the North East (NE) Bushrangers U14 girls in the Victorian Junior Basketball League, competing in Melbourne every Friday night.

while proudly watching his son.

Sienna Vivash mountain biking

MAJOR SPONSOR: MANSFIELD GOLF CLUB

 SIENNA Vivash has been nominated for the Sportsperson of the Year Award in recognition of her outstanding achievements in downhill mountain biking at just nine years old.

A multi-talented athlete, Sienna excels in snowboarding, dancing, and piano, but her true passion is mountain biking.

Competing since the age of seven, she made her debut at the Boost Mobile Australian MTB Interschool Championships this year, securing a podium finish in every race she entered.

Her most impressive result was first place in the Oakley Downhill, Thredbo’s most technical and advanced race, held on the elite Cannonball Downhill track.

Despite a tough practice run that sent her over the handlebars, she adjusted her strategy and delivered a flawless final run.

She also claimed: 1st – Fox Flow (5km time trial); 2nd – Rockshox Pump Track; 3rd – Norco All-Mountain Sienna was also crowned Under 9 Girls Champion in the Alpine Cycling Club Junior Series, winning every race, and placed 2nd in the Under 13s at the Fox Superflow at Mt Buller.

Margie Franke-Williams skiing

MAJOR

 MARGIE Franke-Williams has been nominated for the Sportsperson of the Year Award following her incredible performance at the Winter World Masters Games in Lombardy, Italy, where she secured two silver medals and a bronze in Alpine skiing.

Competing in the Super G, Slalom, and Giant Slalom in the 70-74 age group, Margie’s success was a testament to her determination and resilience, having overcome injury and the recent loss of her

Her journey to the podium was hard-earned.

Four years ago, Margie tore her ACL just months before the 2020 Games and was initially told surgery wasn’t an option due to her age.

Undeterred, she convinced the surgeon otherwise, recovered swiftly, and trained relentlessly to achieve her long-held dream of racing at Lombardy.

A lifelong athlete, Margie first took up competitive skiing at 35 while working as an airline

Since then, she has been a fixture in the Masters skiing circuit, spending every winter weekend training at Mt Hotham.

Identified as a rising talent, Ella was invited a year early to the State Development

Program (SDP) after impressing at the Future Development Program in Mansfield.

She later secured a permanent spot in the U15 SDP and continued her dominance at the Country

Harry Mahoney

▶ MANSFIELD Eagles standout Harry Mahoney is the May nominee for Sportsperson of the Year after a stellar start to the footy season.

Following a strong start to the GVL season, where Harry performed brilliantly in the Eagles’s seniors side, he starred in the interleague match against the OMFNL team in May, earning best on ground.

Since then, Harry, a quick and skilful wingman, has donned the black and white bars for Collingwood in the VFL, with eight games under his belt at the time of print.

And recently Harry and his younger brother Max signed contracts with the Collingwood Football Club for the coming season.

Congratulations to Harry, a worthy nominee with a bright future ahead.

Keziah Wolfe

MAJOR SPONSOR:

Metro Challenge and the U15 Southern Cross Challenge. Her performance caught the attention of Victorian state selectors, earning her an emergency spot for the U16 Victoria Country State team—a significant achievement for an U15 athlete.

Recently, Ella also had the opportunity to be part of the Northern Territory’s U16 National team, competing at the Australian Championships in Bendigo.

With ambitions to one day play for the Australian Opals, Ella’s dedication and talent continue to set her apart as one of the most promising young basketballers in the country.

made a splash at the 2024 Victorian Country Short Course

Keziah was the only club representative to make the trip

On the Saturday, she achieved a new personal best time in the 100 metre freestyle before following that up with a strong swim in the 100 metre backstroke and a seven

On the Sunday, she smashed out more personal best times in the 100 metre individual medley (one lap of each stroke) in the morning and finished off her weekend by knocking five seconds from each of her 100m breastroke and 200m

Keziah improved her personal best times by 20 seconds collectively over the two days and added four qualifying times for the State Age Championships which will be held at Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre in September

Keziah’s results are the outcome of all her hard work and training in Benalla twice a week over winter and she is a

MAJOR SPONSOR:

MAJOR SPONSOR: MANSFIELD GOLF CLUB APRIL SPONSOR: MANSFIELD PHARMACY

SPONSOR: MANSFIELD GOLF CLUB MARCH SPONSOR: MANSFIELD PHARMACY

2024 Sportsperson of the year

Matthew Hedin football

▶ MAGIC midfielder Matthew Hedin has scored the July 2024 Sportsperson of the Year Award nomination after another successful season of footy on the Bonnie Doon senior team.

At the Bonnie Doon football netball club presentation night, he took home senior best and fairest.

Hedin also won the Clyde Baker Medal after an enthralling vote count at the Ovens and King Football Netball League’s presentation night in August.

He polled exceptionally well in the back end of the season snagging the medal with 22 votes.

Round 20 proved the difference, with none of the other contenders registering a single vote, and when Hedin polled three votes against the Bulldogs, it was put beyond a doubt.

Across his football career, Hedin has played 242 games and kicked 164 goals, undoubtedly with many more to come.

MAJOR SPONSOR: MANSFIELD GOLF CLUB JULY SPONSOR: PROACTIVE TAX

Brittany Button horse racing

MANSFIELD based apprentice jockey Brittany Button has had an exceptional 2024, earning her the August nomination for Sportsperson of the Year.

Under the guidance of renowned trainer Gerald Egan, Brittany became his first female apprentice after being accepted into the Racing Victoria Apprentice Jockey Program

Since then, she has ridden in 180 races across northern Victoria and southern NSW, achieving 18 wins and a high

Highlights of Brittany’s year include her first win at Towong in February, taking out the Leeton Cup in April, and a memorable victory aboard Egan-trained ‘Over Yonder’ at

Her dedication is evident in her 4:30 am starts at Gerald’s Mansfield stables and her six-day workweek, balancing trackwork, stable duties, and race day commitments.

Brittany also credits the picturesque Mansfield racecourse and its tranquil surroundings as a key motivator.

Brittany’s ambition is to outride her apprentice claim, excel as a country jockey, and eventually compete at city tracks.

With hard work, determination, and the support of a legendary mentor, her career is one to watch.

netball

▶ EVA Clydesdale has been named the September nominee for Sportsperson of the Year after receiving the Goulburn Valley League (GVL) U15 Best and Fairest Jacqui Hudgson Medal for her stellar GVL season.

Eva has been playing netball since the age of seven and now commits six to nine hours each week to training.

“My favourite part about playing netball is making friends,” she said.

Her ambition is to play netball at an elite level in the future.

“To do this, I will have to try out for one of the Victorian Netball League teams and become a training partner for them,” she explained.

“Then as you get older, you can get selected into one of their teams and play in the Victorian League.”

This year, Eva was selected for the Bendigo Academy of Sport, where she has been training throughout the season.

Later in the year she plans to trial for the North East Academy as she continues to chase her dream.

Eva’s dedication, talent, and passion for netball make her a standout choice for the September Sportsperson of the Year nomination.

Rod & Sheryl Sargent

MAJOR SPONSOR: MANSFIELD GOLF CLUB OCTOBER SPONSOR: MANSFIELD HUNTING & FISHING

▶ WE couldn’t split them – so we didn’t!

October’s Rotary Sportsperson of the Year nominees are none other than Mansfield Golf Club captains, Rod and Sheryl Sargent.

What a year these two have had.

Both Rod and Sheryl took out the Men’s and Ladies’ club championships (talk about a power couple), and they’ve been smashing it as club captains, leading the way with enthusiasm and dedication.

Whether it’s on the fairways or behind the scenes, the Sargents are the heart and soul of the club, inspiring members and keeping everything running smoothly.

Their nomination is well deserved – congrats to Rod and Sheryl.

Mervyn O’Connell skydiving

MAJOR SPONSOR: MANSFIELD GOLF CLUB NOVEMBER SPONSOR: BETTA HOME LIVING

Aoidh

◀ MERRIJIG’S Mervyn O’Connell has been nominated for the Rotary Sportsperson of the Year Award.

In October, Mervyn competed in the fifth FAI World Speed Skydiving Championships held in Beaufort, North Carolina. He placed third overall in the open category, achieving a top speed of 522 kilometres per hour. This result elevated his global ranking from 15th to third fastest in the world.

Competing against 44 skydivers, Mervyn impressed with his performance across eight rounds, where rankings were based on the best score.

In the national team category, Mervyn joined Natisha Dingle, the fastest woman in the world, and Simon Walsh to secure a silver medal for Australia.

In the mixed team category, Mervyn and Natisha claimed gold and set two world records.

Earlier in the year, Mervyn travelled across Europe, participating in ISSA World Series competitions in Germany and Sweden.

He partnered with his Western Australian teammate, Tanita, to win gold at both events.

Mervyn credits his success to rigorous preparation, including virtual workouts provided by Louise Hopwood of LouFit Personal Training. Mervyn will also compete at the Australian Nationals in March and the World Cup in Austria.

MAJOR SPONSOR: MANSFIELD GOLF CLUB NOVEMBER SPONSOR: MANSFIELD APARTMENTS

AOIDH Doyle has been named the 2024 Rotary Sportsperson of the Year nominee for December.

He is being recognised for his outstanding achievements in cattle dog trialling.

Originally from Ireland, Doyle has made a name for himself in the competitive world of working

In 2024, he secured multiple national and state titles with his top kelpies.

His success includes wins at the Australian Yard Dog Championship and the Kelpie Field Trial.

Doyle’s ability to showcase skill, precision, and teamwork has set him apart from the competition.

A shearing contractor, he runs Whisper Kelpies and Livestock Services in North-East Victoria.

His dogs are not just champions in the trial ring but essential partners in his daily farm work.

This nomination highlights the dedication and expertise required in stock dog handling.

It also brings attention to a sport often overlooked in mainstream awards.

Doyle’s achievements continue to shine a light on Australia’s top working dogs and their handlers.

Teams who mixed it up the best in 2024

first

quarter nominee

1

Mansfield Eagles

U18s gold basketball team

THE U18s boy’s gold team had a fantastic time at the division three and four U/18 Junior Country Championships (JCC) in Bendigo during the third weekend of March.

The team took home Mansfield’s first ever U18 JCC tournament win, and Mansfield’s highest ever JCC division win defeating Hamilton by nine points. Across the weekend, they competed against all the country associations in Victoria at their level going

from strength to strength each match.

Their wins bumped them out of division four, and up into the division three, and through to the division three semi-final.

This would be one of the toughest games of their young lives, against a super strong powerhouse of Country Victorian basketball, Traralgon.

The young Mansfield team held their nerve, and got themselves a three point win, to defeat Traralgon

third quarter nominee

pushing them through to their ultimate goal - a grand final berth at the Junior Country Champs.

The grand final put them up against Hamilton once again, who had won their way through against some quality teams.

The boy’s put in a champion effort and finished with a well-deserved win, making them worthy first quarter nominees in this year’s Sports Team of the Year award.

Bonnie Doon

A grade netball team

AFTER a spectacular season, the Bonnie Doon A grade netball team have netted a well-deserved nomination for 2024 Sports Team Award of the Year.

In September, the Bomberettes soared to their first ever Ovens and King Valley netball league grand

final win against five-time defending champions Greta in Wangaratta. The crowd roared as Bonnie Doon delivered goal after goal, cementing their historic victory. The final scores were 6048, a 12-point triumph that left no doubt about their supremacy on the court.

A grade netball coach Michelle Tanner said the win was not only a testament to the A grade team’s perseverance, but to the entire club. She added that the coaching, the girls and their connections all led to such a successful season finish.

Major Sponsor

second quarter nominee

2

Mansfield Eagles Women’s football team

IN its inaugural year, the Mansfield Eagles Women’s football team hit the ground running with a number of women across the shire signing up.

Among them, half a dozen girls who had played football before and others in their first season tied up their boots and displayed a cunning determination in the air and on the ground.

Following an exciting win against Rumbularas in round one, they continued to battle it out in the following

rounds coming away with some losses and several victories improving their fundamental skills and game sense coming to form a very competitive unit.

In round 14, the girls soared through to finals defeating the Tatura Bulldogs and finishing the home and away season off on a strong note. They made it all the way through to the semifinals which was an incredible achievement, but unfortunately they were

knocked out by Shepparton United who had a number of extra years on the training field up their belt and were able to score with greater consistency. It is rare that a brandnew team could have such a successful first season with minimal bumps along the way making them well deserving nominees of the 2024 Sports Team Award of the Year.

fourth quarter nominee

Mansfield Swimming Club

MANSFIELD Swimming Club is the fourth quarter nominee for the Sports Team of the Year.

The club has had an outstanding year, with its swimmers demonstrating exceptional dedication and sportsmanship both in and out of the pool.

Known for its strong community focus, the Mansfield Swimming Club has supported swimmers of all ages and abilities, encouraging

participation and fostering a love for the sport.

The club’s success at regional meets, as well as its commitment to providing quality coaching and training opportunities, has earned it well-deserved recognition.

An extraordinary effort was recently showcased by Mansfield swimmers at the 2025 Victorian Country LC Swimming Championships in Mildura.

Harvey Knight achieved four personal bests in four races during his championship debut, while Keziah Wolfe delivered top-15 finishes in the 100m backstroke and butterfly, capped with a stunning personal best in the latter event.

Congratulations to the Mansfield Swimming Club on this nomination, which celebrates the team’s hard work and contribution to local sport.

Haines proposes electrification loans, $30K business incentive

INDI MP Helen Haines has launched her policy for an ‘Electrify Everything Loan Scheme’ that would help homeowners lower the cost of running their home through home batteries, energy-e cient appliances and solar storage solutions.

She has also committed to help small business reduce their energy and tax bills through a proposed $30,000 energy incentive for small business and primary producers.

The loan scheme for households would reduce the upfront financial burden on consumers through interest-free loans for home electrification upgrades she

said will drive down power bills.

“Energy bills are one of the biggest costs for both households and businesses – my plans would allow both households and small businesses make the upfront investments they need to be more energy-e cient and save money,” Dr Haines said.

“One in three Australian households have already made the switch to roo op solar, which is helping cut their power bills and emissions.

“But they could save even more if they had easier access to home batteries and e cient electric appliances, allowing them to store the

MILLION PAWS WALK RETURNS TO MANSFIELD FOR ITS FINAL LAP

THE Million Paws Walk will return to Mans eld in 2025 as part of its nal national event, raising vital funds for animals in need across Australia on Sunday, 25 May.

A er more than 30 years, this will be the last lap for the much-loved RSPCA fundraiser, making this year’s event a special opportunity for locals to come together, celebrate, and support animal welfare one last time.

RSPCA Victoria CEO Dr Liz Walker highlighted the signi cance of the event, explaining that funds raised at every walk - including the one in Mans eld - will go towards ending animal cruelty.

“Million Paws Walk has been a fantastic event for communities across Victoria, and we are thrilled to see it return to Mans eld this year,” Dr Walker said.

excess energy they produce during the day to use at night, when prices are at their peak.”

While many Australians are eager to embrace electri cation, the high upfront cost of technologies like home batteries, heat pumps and induction cooktops are preventing people from transitioning to energy ecient appliances and keeping many household energy bills higher for longer.

Dr Haines said her loan scheme would help bridge the a ordability gap for key technologies while the market catches up.

“Items like home batteries are too expensive for many

Australians right now, but those who have invested in this technology have dramatically reduced their power bills,” she said.

“I want a program that will support people to access to invest in electri cation technology while the market is catching up.”

Dr Haines’ policy proposes interest-free loans that would enable consumers to bundle multiple products into one loan for a simpler electri cation journey.

Common bundles may include a battery, induction cook top, heat pump and split-system air conditioning.

She is also proposing a

Small Business and Primary Producer Energy Incentive that would enable all businesses to bene t from a $30,000 tax deduction for investment in assets or technology that improve energy e ciency.

Dr Haines said her policy would help small and medium enterprises invest in electrification of their business or improvements to boost their energy efficiency.

It would be open to businesses with turnover up to $50 million, and to all primary producers, acknowledging the importance of supporting farmers to make investments.

“Whether upgrading refrigeration, transport, or energy storage, my policy will support businesses to lower their energy costs and increase their productivity,” she said.

Dr Haines said the incentive would also enable farmers to claim a bonus deduction for on-farm e ciency technologies relating to soil health, carbon sequestration and alternative fuels.

“Successful electrification can put money back in people’s pockets and make everyday life more affordable, while also supporting Australia’s transition to a cleaner, more sustainable future,” she said.

Mansfield

Million Paws

Walk

Botanic Park, Mansfield

8:30am – 12pm Sunday, 25 May

“We know some supporters may be disappointed to hear this will be the nal lap, but with increasing event costs and logistical challenges, the time has come to bid farewell. “That said, this last walk will be one to remember, and we encourage everyone to get involved.”

Dr Walker also stressed the importance of fundraising, with proceeds helping to care for thousands of animals, including

those rescued by RSPCA Inspectors.

“This is a chance for the community to come together and make a real di erence. The cost of caring for animals in need continues to rise, and your support is more vital than ever,” she said.

Mans eld will be among six locations across Victoria hosting Million Paws Walk 2025, with more than 6,000 participants and 9000 dogs expected to take part statewide.

Locals interested in volunteering or running a vendor stall at the event can register via MPW@ rspcavic.org.au or call 03 9224 2564. Registrations are now open, with a 60 per cent discount available until 7 April.

Visit millionpawswalk.com.au to sign up and start fundraising today.

Jamieson heart patient and artist shares heart journey with Deputy PM

JAMIESON heart patient and artist Murray Chenery met with Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Richard Marles, recently to share his heart journey, showcase his heart paintings and exhibition, and advocate for a stronger patient voice in Australia’s health system.

Murray underwent bypass heart surgery in mid-2023 and turned this life-de ning event into an opportunity to express, through his paintings, the vivid feelings and emotions he experienced before, during, and a er surgery.

“Meeting with the Deputy PM allowed me to share the real-life experiences of a heart patient, what it means to support fellow heart patients, and the need for patients to provide a critical voice in our health system,” Murray said.

Murray told the Deputy PM that he owes his successful recovery to several key factors, including participation in a strong rehabilitation program, daily exercise through walking, better nutrition, monitoring his vital signs, and taking therapeutic time to paint his heart journey and exhibit his artwork.

Murray, who is also a Board Member of MACE, shares his time between Jamieson and Geelong.

In 2024, he exhibited 22 heart paintings and donated the sale proceeds to the Barwon Health Foundation.

He also opened his art studio as part of the Mans eld Open Studio Trail (MOST) in

November 2024, where he featured a range of his heart paintings.

“Coming from the corporate world, I was a ‘striver’ for big businesses where I had to deliver on KPIs, but the singular focus of just waking up a er heart surgery is the most satisfying achievement,” he said.

“This was one KPI to cherish and celebrate.

“Cardiovascular disease kills one in four Australians.”

“Nearly 600,000 people are admitted to hospital annually with heart disease, and over four million Australians live with a heart condition.”

Murray’s rst message is clear - if you have chest pain, go to hospital immediately.

His second message is that the mental challenges of heart disease are just as signi cant, if not greater, than the physical ones.

Recognising that additional support may be needed can be critical to a successful recovery.

Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles acknowledged Murray’s contributions.

“It was a delight to have had the opportunity to meet Murray,” he said.

“The contributions Murray is making to the community are a testament to his strength and spirit, which is also on show through his art.

“We know the devastating impacts heart disease has on Australians, which is why Murray’s work in sharing his journey and supporting others in our community is so important.”

HEARTFELT ADVOCACY: JAMIESON

HEART PATIENT AND ARTIST

MURRAY CHENERY MEETS WITH DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER RICHARD

MARLES TO SHARE HIS HEART

JOURNEY AND ADVOCATE FOR A STRONGER PATIENT VOICE IN AUSTRALIA’S HEALTH SYSTEM.

Murray volunteers his time with Heart Support Australia (HSA) as a peer group support leader.

HSA helps heart patients transition from hospital to home, focusing on improving quality of life while reducing the likelihood of a repeat cardiac event.

HSA peer groups ll a service gap for heart patients who struggle to access specialists, cardiac rehabilitation, and mental health support.

Many heart patients are le to manage on their own a er hospitalisation and rehabilitation, as GPs o en lack the time for holistic patient care.

HSA also trains volunteers to provide bedside support for heart patients in hospital.

Murray said that HSA reduces the burden on the healthcare system by delivering signi cant return on investment (ROI) to the government.

Cardiovascular disease costs Australian taxpayers more than $11 billion each year.

“There is no better time for the Australian government to identify practical steps to help reduce the health and economic burden of cardiovascular disease,” Murray said.

Murray’s meeting with Richard Marles followed his

presentation at the Patient and Parliamentary Summit at Parliament House, Canberra, in late November 2024, where he represented HSA as a consumer advocate.

The summit focused on reducing the time it takes for medicines to be assessed and listed on the Pharmaceutical Bene ts Scheme (PBS).

“There are growing calls for earlier and more consistent engagement with consumers across the lifecycles of medicines,” he said.

“The average time it takes for innovative medicines to go from Therapeutic Goods

Administration (TGA) registration to PBS reimbursement is 466 days, which is too long.

“A person who is sick today and needs a speci c new test or treatment, which is subject to an ongoing Health Technology Assessment (HTA), cannot wait.

“Cancer patients need the right tests and treatments at the right times for optimal outcomes.”

Murray hopes to continue raising awareness about heart disease and help patients better manage their recovery through ongoing volunteer work and advocacy.

What to do when you see lights and sirens

AMBULANCE Victoria (AV) is urging all road users to exercise caution around ambulance responding to emergencies so paramedics and rst responders can quickly reach those in need.

 Avoid unpredictable or dangerous movements, such as slamming on the brakes or swerving into another lane.

Executive Director Quality and Clinical Innovation Dr Tegwyn McManamny said it’s crucial for drivers to stay calm and know what to do when they see red and blue ashing lights or hear a siren approaching.

“As a MICA paramedic, I know how important it is for drivers to remain composed and aware of their surroundings,” Dr McManamny said.

“When you see an ambulance with its ashing red and blue lights or hear its sirens, it’s essential not to panic, but to safely move out of the way.

“This helps paramedics, rst responders and all road users stay safe while ensuring patients we are responding to receive emergency care without delay.”

“Four out of ve road incidents involving ambulances on a case occur when lights and sirens are activated.

“This highlights the urgent need for greater public awareness and cooperation to ensure ambulances can reach patients quickly and safely.”

Here are some simple steps to follow when an ambulance is approaching with its ashing red and blue lights or sirens on:

 Stay calm.

 Slow down and use your indicator before safely moving to the le , when possible.

 Keep the emergency lane clear so that paramedics and rst responders can pass through quickly.

 Give way at intersections, even if you have a green light or arrow.

Dr McManamny said it was important for drivers to remain vigilant on the road.

“When an ambulance passes, remember that other ambulances or emergency vehicles may follow, so be on the lookout for more responders heading through the area,” Dr McManamny said.

“If it is unsafe to move out of the way, gradually slow down and, if necessary, come to a complete stop.

“Paramedics and some rst responders are trained to navigate their way through tra c congestion and will continue to nd the best and safest routes to an emergency.

“Every minute counts in a lifethreatening emergency, so it is vital our ambulances can move quickly through tra c.”

Eat your vegies and support Australian growers

A NEW research and development program to increase the daily vegetable consumption of Australians by one serve a day is expected to contribute $3.3 billion to vegetable growers and across the supply chain, create 13,000 new jobs in regional communities, and lead to a $1.4bn reduction in healthcare costs – contributing a total $4.7bn in net economic bene t.

The six-year program funded by Hort Innovation through the Frontiers Healthy Living Investment Theme has been developed in direct response to alarmingly low and declining daily vegetable consumption and will incorporate insights and lessons from global best practice programs to maximise out-

comes for industry and growers.

Australians today are only consuming on average 1.8 serves of vegetables per person per daywhich is 135 grams, or around half a cup of vegetables - instead of the recommended ve pieces per day.

Increasing daily vegetable intake by just one serve per person per day adds up to more than 9.1 billion additional serves annually, or 680,000 tonnes of vegetables consumed.

“We know that only 6.1 per cent of Australians are eating the recommended ve serves of vegetables and two serves of fruit per day,”

Brett Fi eld, CEO of Hort Innovation said.

“The chronic underconsumption of vegies a ects all Australians

which means eating one more vegetable every day will have a positive impact on all of us.

“Consider better health, less pressure on our health system, our growers prospering, job creation, less waste - and all of this leads to a positive impact on the broader economy.

“In fact, by increasing the number of vegies consumed by just one serve, we would expect to see a $3.3 billion increase in value to the vegetable industry.”

“By tapping into what will really drive behavioural change we believe this research program will help us work towards both a healthier Australia and a prosperous vegetable industry.”

The research program – overseen

by Hort Innovation – has been co-designed by more than 48 cross-sector organisations spanning industry, research science, healthcare, government and community outreach to understand the most e ective ways to get Australians to eat an extra serve of vegetables each day.

The program is being led by AUSVEG and will be supported by The Growth Advisory, Fi y ve5 – part of Accenture Australia, Akcelo, and AgEcon.

Michael Coote, CEO of AUSVEG said the critically low and declining vegetable consumption in Australia has been a major concern for many years.

“Not only is it extremely worrying for the health of Australians,

but it presents major concerns for the long-term viability of Australia’s vegetable industry,” Mr Coote said.

“By boosting vegetable consumption, there’s a multi-billion-dollar, triple-bottom-line of bene ts to be realised – it’s good for Aussie vegetable growers, it’s good for the national economy, and it’s good for the health of all Australians.

“AUSVEG is excited to be working with Hort Innovation to lead this important work to get all Aussies eating one more serve of delicious, nutritious and a ordable Australian-grown vegetables.”

The program will run until 2030 and is expected to see every dollar invested yielding a $12.30 return over six years.

Smoke sensor to save wine industry millions

A SMOKE sensor developed by La Trobe University researchers in conjunction with local vineyards has the potential to save hundreds of millions of dollars in lost wine production.

The sensor is in the process of being rolled out across the wine industry with monitors now being used to track the impact of bush res that have ravaged the Grampians this summer.

Wine Industry Smoke Detectors (WISDs) – known as ‘wizards’ – track smoke events like bush res and burn o s around vineyards.

The data can then advise winegrowers whether smoke is likely to taint their grapes and if they need to discard their season’s harvest or use winemaking techniques to remove the taint.

Data taken during trials of the sensor through the 2020 bush res that devastated wine regions across Australia’s east coast found that $100-$150 million worth of grapes were needlessly discarded over unfounded concerns they were tainted by smoke.

Australian agtech provider Goanna Ag has now signed on to commercialise the WISDs over the next two years, during which time the hardware and algorithm will be further validated in real-world re events and the network of WISDs expanded to other wine regions across Australia.

La Trobe University academic Ian Porter led the WISDs research and risk model over the last 10 years with cooperation from Lake Nillacootie Estate (now Krys-

tallo Estate) and Ros Ritchie Wines at Mans eld as eld sites, alongside other vineyards across south-eastern Australia.

Ros Ritchie said she was directly contacted by Dr Porter to participate in the trial as the Barwite vineyard was in

monitoring smoke taint on grapes.

close proximity to the alpine areas a ected by res and also planned burns.

“We then had the sensors on-farm for about ve years,” she said.

Over that time period smoke was visible on at least three occasions, however

Ros said with the origins of the res a distance away the fruit was not impacted.

“It was also o en before veraison [when the grapes transition from growth to ripening] which is when the fruit is usually most a ected,” she said.

Prior to the study Ros would not have picked any fruit for winemaking if she thought it was smoke-a ected or tainted.

“It can be tasted on the fruit, and is also evident in trial crushings and ferments,” she said.

“So I was pleasantly surprised at the absence in the data of any smoke compounds detected even when there had been quite visible smoke in the surrounding atmosphere.”

Professor Porter said vineyard trials of the sensor had found smoke tainted wine grapes a lot less than viticulturalists believed, meaning vineyards could avoid signi cant losses of grapes that winegrowers had previously believed were ruined.

“Growers think that all smoke causes smoke taint, but data collected by our team has for the rst time globally linked the amount of fresh smoke needed in vineyards to smoke taint in the bottle,” Prof Porter said.

“This sensor has the potential to save a heap of grapes they would usually throw away, which can be nancially and emotionally devastating for winegrowers, and it’s one of the reasons we developed the WISDs.

“This has been the Holy Grail of research that’s now being solved.”

The prototype smoke loggers have been developed by La Trobe University researchers and supported with funding from Wine Australia, La Trobe University, and other partners, including the Victorian and Australian governments

and regional wine associations.

A network of 100 prototype loggers was deployed in vineyards in North East Victoria a er the catastrophic bushres in 2020, with the technology re ned in the years that followed.

Operating like the networks that continuously monitor air quality for human health, the data loggers calculate risk ratings for smoke taint drawn from a vast database of smoke, grapes, and wine data collected by La Trobe during more than 70 controlled burns and eight major bushres.

This knowledge links smoke dose to smoke composition, phenol levels in grapes and wine, and their sensory outcomes in wines. It also includes burn conditions, distance from the burn, grapevine variety, and the timing of exposure during the season. Prof Porter said the ndings also showed that in the majority of cases, winegrowers need not be concerned that smoke from planned controlled burns might taint their grapes.

“The WISD is an amazing breakthrough for Australian growers and wine producers,” he said.

It provides the sector with an extremely valuable tool to use during any smoke event to determine whether there is a problem or not.

“Having results in real time greatly reduces stress for growers and winemakers and allows them to market their grapes and produce wine with con dence.”

REGULAR EVENTS

 CWA Monthly Meetings: 2nd Tuesday 6.00pm or 3rd Sunday 2.00pm (alternating each month: Feb-Tues).

 CWA Craft Days: CWA Craft: 1st & 3rd Wednesday 10:00am, and 4th Wednesday 6:00pm of each month.

 CWA Op shop open: CWA Op shop open: most days from 10:00am to 2:00pm.

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

 High Country Poets meet at the Mansfield Library on the 3rd Friday of the month at 1:30 pm. Members of the public all welcome to come and listen / or share their poetic ramblings.

 Justice of the Peace Services

– Every Thursday, Mansfield Police Station. 10am to 1pm for witnessing and signing of documents.

 Lima South Old Time Dance: At Lima South Hall the second Sunday of each month between 1pm and 5pm. Entry $10. Music provided by The Ramblers. Please bring a plate of afternoon tea to share. All welcome. Contact: 0425868277.

 Mansfield Croquet Club –Monday and Wednesday mornings from 9am till 12 noon, Lord‘s Reserve, Cnr Victoria and Apollo Streets. Playing equipment available, $2 per session.

 Mansfield Farmers’ Marketsfourth Saturday of the month (February to December), 8.30am to 1pm at the median strip between the Post Office and the Delatite Hotel.

 Monday Mingle – Every Monday – organised by the Bonnie Doon Community Centre – chat and make new friends – new theme each week. BYO ideas for activities – all ages and abilities

 Mansfield support group for carers and people with special needs – morning coffee, third Tuesday of the month, 9.30am at Bob’s Shed, Rosehaven, 82a Malcolm Street Mansfield. Ph 0409 751 593.

 Mansfield Let’s Talk - Coffee & Chat every third Wednesday of the month from 10am to 12pm at the Delatite Hotel. All welcome, No bookings required.

REGULAR EVENTS

 Mansfield Let’s Talk - Chill & Chat every second Tuesday of the month from 6.30pm to 8.30pm at Bowser Bean (BP) dining lounge 145 Mt. Buller Rd. For further info/enquiries email: mansfieldletstalk@gmail. com

 Mansfield Uniting Church - Highett Street Sunday services, 9.30am. All welcome. Ph 0417 103 813

 Men‘s Probus meetings are held every 2nd Wednesday for monthly meetings, and then activities/outings are held on the last Wednesday of each month – or as organised.

 Outdoor Provedore, producers market, 8.30am to 12.30pm on the High Street median strip, opposite the CWA (third Saturday of every month). Out’n’About social group meets for lunch on the second Monday of the month at The Delatite Hotel

CALENDAR

 FEBRUARY 27: Mansfield Garden Club Twilight Meeting, Mansfield. Meet at the Information Centre at 4pm to carpool to the meeting, followed by dinner. Contact Anne 0418 308 230 or Christine 0438 648 372 for more information.

 MARCH 1: Spoon Carving Workshop, Mansfield Arts Collective Studios and Gallery, Mansfield. Hands-on workshop with Nat Ord teaching traditional spoon carving techniques. Suitable for beginners aged 14+. 10am-4pm. $220. Register at natord.com.au.

 MARCH 2: Cyclist of all ages and abilities are invited to join Tour de Trail, a family friendly cycling event along the Mansfield end of the Great Victorian Rail Trail. Choice of two destinations.

Book: www.trybooking.com/CXHKY

 MARCH 3: U3A Meeting at Mansfield Library (enter by back door). 10:00am for morning tea followed by a General Meeting at 10:30am. Margie will present UNIT 2: ‘Rock and Roll’. New members always welcome - call Trish 0427 357 829

 MARCH 5: 2024 Sportsperson of the Year Awards, sponsored by Mansfield Rotary Club and the Mansfield Courier, hosted by and at the Mansfield Golf Club. 6:30PM with tickets available through Rotary.

 MARCH 7-10: Mansfield Pottery Festival - 2025 where everyone is welcome to meet and buy direct from potters.

 MARCH 8: Merrijig Rodeo - McCormack

Park, Merrijig - gates open 12pm - junior events from 1pm - main event 6pm to 10pm.

 MARCH 13: Festival of Small Halls featuring Hat Fitz & Cara from Australia and Lucy Farrell from the UK. Merton Memorial Hall, doors open 5.30pm show starts at 7.30pm, tickets at $35 per head, children under 13 are $10. Tickets available online at festivalofsmallhalls.com or locally at the Merton General Store or call Marg Sayers on 0409 955 809.

 MARCH 17: U3A Meeting at Mansfield Library (enter by back door). 10:00am for morning tea. Guest speaker will be Maureen with ‘Drums and Drumming.’ For further details call Trish 0437 357 829

Preschool story time at Mansfield Library. Stories, songs and craft. Every 1st and 3rd Friday of the month 10.30am. Ph 5775 8621 Rotary meet the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month at the Delatite Hotel. 6.30 for a 7pm start. Rural Australians for Refugees (RAR) meet every fourth Monday of the month at 6pm at the Uniting Church Hall. Scrabble Club for all levels meets at 10am every Wednesday at Mansfield Library. Ph 5775 8621

 St John’s Anglican Church - meditation every Friday at 12 noon for a quiet half hour to restore your peace. Ph Christine 0412 825 324

 St Vincent de Paul assistance center, Highett Street - Tuesday 10am12pm, Wednesday 2pm4pm, Friday 10am-12pm and 2pm-5pm. Phone 5775 3156.

 Tolmie Uniting Church - Tolmie Sportsground, 3rd Sunday of the month. Service at 2pm. All welcome.

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

This bespoke home, crafted by local builder BM Built, is ready to be brought to life and features an impressive and functional layout that directly backs onto the Mansfield Golf Course.  Spanning 261 square meters under roof and built with sustainable materials, the home sits on a north-facing 609 square meter block with a gate leading onto the 13th green.

The kitchen features stone benchtops and European appliances, while Blackbutt

polished timber flooring adds both beauty and warmth throughout the home. It includes double glazing, ceiling fans, a ducted reverse cycle system, and a European fireplace. The tiled wet areas come with underfloor heating, and the bedrooms are carpeted for additional comfort.

Convenience is key with a remote access double garage that provides both internal and external access.

Scan

Set in a quiet, family-friendly neighbourhood,

Four generous sized bedrooms all with robes, master with ensuite

Cosy wood heater, ducted evaporative cooling and panel wall heaters

Light-filled kitchen with double oven, dishwasher and walk-in pantry

Separate formal lounge/dining room, carpeted with lots of natural light

Discover sustainable property management through the Healthy Hectares Project

FARMERS and small property land managers in North East Victoria are invited to a free Healthy Hectares introductory session on Thursday, March 6, from 7-8pm at The Centre for Continuing Education in Wangaratta.

This session o ers an overview of the innovative Healthy Hectares program, a series of six tailored workshops delivered over seven months, starting April 2025.

These workshops are designed to help small landholders plan and manage their properties sustainably.

The project is focused on practical, local and grassroots solutions to both take on climate change, maintain agricultural productivity and protect and enhance natural capital.

Led by local experts, the workshops will combine practical sessions with in-depth guidance on topics including property planning, soil health management, water requirements for your property, enhancing biodiversity, pasture and livestock management and managing invasive pests and weeds.

“A feature of the program would be the development of a whole farm plan for each of the participants’ properties over the course of the workshop series,” project o cer, Gervaise Gaunt said.

“Participants will also receive a comprehensive range of resources to support skill development and knowledge in sustainable property management.”

The project is supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program under the Natural Heritage Trust.

Register now via https://events. humanitix.com/healthy-hectaresinformation-session-2025.

For more information about the program contact Wodonga Urban Landcare Network facilitator Jo Vincent at info@wodongalandcare.org.au.

DAMS

CLEAN THEM NOW!

Dozer Excavator

Earthmoving

State braces for new outbreak of bird flu

nemedia.com.au

QUARANTINE was only li ed mid-January on the last Golden Plains Shire property to be impacted by avian in uenza, with Agriculture Victoria (AgVic) announcing the end of Australia’s largest avian in uenza outbreak.

Yet avian in uenza is back in the headlines, this time in Euroa with three properties testing positive to the virus and quarantine and movement restrictions in force.

Between May 22 and June 24 of last year, seven commercial poultry properties in Lethbridge and Meredith tested positive for high pathogenicity H7N3 avian in uenza, with birds at a property in Terang testing positive to the H7N9 strain during the same time period.

The outbreak began on an egg farm near Meredith, spreading to other poultry farms housing egg-laying chickens and ducks for meat production.

About a quarter of the state’s eggs are produced in the Golden Plains Shire and as a result the outbreak caused supply chain issues, with Coles deciding to implement buying limits on eggs.

Over a million birds were culled to stop the spread of the virus to other farms and into the environment and properties were not declared virus-free until weeks and o en months a er the outbreak.

Farm Pride Foods was one of the producers impacted, freerange birds at the company’s Lethbridge Aviary site testing positive to avian in uenza (AI).

This was not the rst time the company had been a ected.

Farm Pride Foods faced two avian in uenza outbreaks in 2020, losing 33 per cent of the company’s stock as around 380,000 egg-laying caged, barn and free-range hens were culled.

“If the virus was allowed to spread onward it would be devastating for the rest of the poultry industry in Victoria and perhaps onward through Australia,” said Victoria’s chief veterinary o cer at the time, Graeme Cook.

“The right thing to do is to stop the infected premises being any further risk, and that’s the action that is taken through the humane destruction and disposal and the onwards cleansing and disinfection of the farms.”

However less than a month after the state was declared AI virus free, much of the Strathbogie Shire is now under quarantine as a third property tests positive to H7N8 High Pathogenic Avian Inuenza.

Albeit a di erent strain from last year’s outbreak, the results are the same as AgVic works alongside the producer to mitigate risk.

Kinross Farms con rmed the outbreak is at their third egg production facility outside of Euroa which houses 260,000 chickens that will now be destroyed.

This brings the total number of bird losses for the company to 500,000.

Kinross Farms managing director Philip Szepe said the com-

pany had been closely monitoring all of its farms since the start of the current outbreak on February 8.

“It is not unusual for an avian in uenza outbreak to spread to neighbouring properties,” Mr Szepe said.

“This latest outbreak was detected quickly and managed immediately, in line with wellestablished national response arrangements to manage an avian in uenza outbreak.

“We thank AgVic for its ongoing e orts on the a ected sites, and at our other sites where we continue to manage egg production and supply to customers, while maintaining strict biosecurity protocols.”

AgVic said the property had been quarantined, with a control area in place spanning east of the Goulburn Valley Highway for Strathbogie Shire, and includes Euroa, Violet Town, Longwood, Ruffy, Avenel, and Strathbogie.

Mr Szepe said it was a very challenging time for his sta .

“Our teams across all sites are working tirelessly to manage this response and we appreciate their commitment to the work.

“(Their) day-to-day work is dedicated to ensuring the health and welfare of our birds, and we want to thank them all for their unwavering commitment to the recovery work as it unfolds.

“We also thank members of the local community for their ongoing support, especially towards our team members who live in the region.”

Both AgVic and Mr Szepe con-

HALF A MILLION BIRDS CULLED ON EUROA EGG FARMS

tinue to assure the community that eggs and poultry products from supermarkets are safe to consume.

“We appreciate all customers who continue to support Kinross Farms,” Mr Szepe said.

However as producers brace for a new outbreak, potential egg shortages have brought the proposed national phase-out of conventional caged eggs under the spotlight.

Under the latest Commonwealth Government guidelines caged eggs are set to be phased out by 2036, with the Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) now calling on both state and federal governments to pause legislation.

VFF Egg Group President Meg Parkinson said ongoing impacts of avian in uenza are severely hampering the supply of eggs to consumers and all forms of egg production must be utilised to guarantee future reliable supplies.

“Recurring outbreaks have demonstrated the need for a robust and resilient egg industry,” Ms Parkinson said.

“This includes eggs from all production systems such as barn laid, cage and free range and enables consumers to choose how their eggs are produced and at the same time ensuring supply of eggs is as resilient as possible.

“Caged egg systems provide a safer internal environment, signi cantly reducing the risk of avian in uenza transmission through contact with wild birds,” she said.

Ms Parkinson said Australian

egg farmers invest considerably in strict biosecurity protocols and uphold world-leading animal welfare standards, ensuring consumers have access the best possible eggs.

“The impending phase out of conventional cages, coupled with a lack of clear transition planning from governments, has created uncertainty within the industry,” she said.

“The VFF urges governments to work closely with industry to develop a practical transition plan that ensures egg supply remains stable and a ordable for all Australians.

“Until such a plan is in place, the proposed phaseout must be paused to avoid unintended consequences for food security and local farmers.”

Australian Eggs managing director Rowan McMonnies has said the detection of avian in uenza this year is disappointing as there has been a huge collective e ort to contain the outbreak.

“Once again, we will see disruption as a result of the outbreak with egg supply tight in some places, but it also needs to be remembered that the impacted farms are a very small proportion of the industry,” he said.

“This outbreak has sparked debate about food security in light of increased avian in uenza risks.”

Mr McMonnies said that when the current response to the outbreak is complete, it will be important to re ect on how industry and governments can best meet this challenge going forward.

NEW QUARANTINE ZONE: A third outbreak of bird flu on a property outside of Euroa has been declared. PHOTO: georgeclerk

LOCAL SOLUTIONS: Participants of the program can expect in-depth guidance by experts.

Expression of Interest – Lease of Grazing Land

The Mansfield Shire Council invites expressions of interest for the lease of land in accordance with Section 115 of the Local Government Act 2020, and in alignment with the Council’s Community Engagement Policy.

Property Description: Lot A, Part 141 Lakins Road, Mansfield

This opportunity pertains to the grazing land at Lot A, Part 141 Lakins Road, Mansfield, encompassing a total area of 15.9 hectares. The Council is considering a lease agreement with an initial term of 1 year, with an option for 2 x 1-year extension.

Please submit your Expression of Interest for the lease of this property to:

Mansfield Shire Council – Property Management Department 33 Highe Street, Mansfield VIC 3722

Alternatively, you can email your Expression of Interest to property@mansfield.vic.gov.au

The deadline for submi ing Expressions of Interest is Wednesday, 5 March 2025.

For additional information or inquiries, please reach out to Kym Killeen, Property Management O icer, via email at property@mansfield.vic.gov.au, or by phone at 03 5775 8555.

Kirsten Alexander Chief Executive O icer

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

Win Bertalli’s birthday goodies on Radio Mansfield 99.7 FM’s “Anything Goes” Birthday Wheel Thursdays from 2-4pm

This week’s winner is: TRISH MARKS

To enter call Radio Mansfield on 5775 2333

& SERVICES

CHIMNEY/FLUE MAINTENANCE

Our annual cleaning service will begin 25 February 2025 and will end in April 2025. Should you require our services, please contact our o ice on 1300 651 631 or email info@chimneysweeps.com.au for a quote and to make a booking. As bookings are limited, we urge you to make a reservation as soon as possible!

Credit Card &Eftpos facilities

Why not charge your advertisement to Mastercard or Visa? 5723 0101

Mansfield Classifieds

JOIN OUR TEAM!

Rosehaven Hospice provides compassionate support to people with life-limiting illness and their families. Our 5-bed end-of-life care and respite home is surrounded by 4.5 acres of tranquil lawns and gardens.

We have a number of opportunities to join our friendly team: Garden Supervisor (2 days p/w) You will have a passion for gardening, enjoy garden maintenance, mowing, and creating spaces for people to enjoy.

You will be comfortable developing a Gardening Plan and supervising volunteers. Support Service Workers (casual)

You will be experienced in high-quality, person-centred direct care, with a compassionate outlook.

Responsible tasks include (but are not limited to) caring for our respite guests, general household duties, and providing engaging activities.

You must hold a Certi cate III in Individual Support - Aged Care and/or Disability (or the willingness to obtain same), First Aid quali cations, and a current Victorian Driver’s Licence.

The ability to cover a range of shifts, including night shifts is highly desirable, along with knowledge and understanding of community Palliative Care.

For further information, please contact our Hospice Co-Manager Donna on 5775 3161 or email your resume to info@rosehaven.org.au

Secondary Literacy Support 0.4–0.6 FTE

This role offers an exciting opportunity to support students’ academic growth and confidence in reading, writing, and comprehension while aligning with both the International Baccalaureate (IBDP) and Steiner education pedagogies. mansfieldsteiner.vic.edu.au/ career-opportunities/

School Crossing Supervisors

Mansfield Shire Council is looking for dedicated, responsible individuals from our community to help ensure the safety of children as they travel to and from school. As a School Crossing Supervisor, you’ll be a vital part of our Community Safety team, helping to create a safe environment for children and families while being compensated for your time. For more information please contact James Brown, Local Laws O icer on 5775 8596 or visit mansfield.vic.gov.au/Council/WorkWith-Us/Career-Job-Opportunities.

2013 Toyota Hilux, manual, 169,700km, next service 180,000km, Mongoose Multimedia player / reversing camera install 7/23, Black Duck seat covers, new oor mats, ARB canopy & Bullbar, two Outback storage draws & boxes insidecanopy,Hayman Reese ball and Pintle hook tow bars, never bush bashed, well maintained. Selling due to retirement.

1AS8UR $32,500 ONO. Phone 0403 926 144

AUDI A4 TDI for sale, local car, 2013 Model, 102,000kms only, pristine condition, 1,000 KLMs per tank on a long trip, rego (1AA8DW), $20,000 firm. Phone Jurgen 0438 500 888.

2024 TOYOTA RAV 4 HYBRID GLX AWD. As new condition, bought 31/5/2024. Colour Glacier White, travelled 4620km, Extras include full exterior paint protect, full interior fabric protect, windows ttedwithdarkestlegal tint, oormats front and back, slimline plates CYF719. $51000. Phone Anne, 0407 065 776.

MITSUBISHI ASX 2017, 90000km, registered until June 2025 1OJ4NB, $15000. PH 0402 118 361

MAZDA 2023 CX3 auto hatch, reg CHC333, one owner, immaculate condition, service books, 11,875kms, RWC, $27,750. Phone Maxwell.K.Batey on 0419 547 308.

TOYOTA Hilux 2013, 169,000km, 5spd manual, 4x4, full service history, no o road, no accidents, black duck seat covers from new, new tyres, reg (1AL4YU), RWC, $32,000. Phone Allan 0400 541 599.

2019 Hyundai Santa Fe Elite, leather seats, services as per logbook. 4 cylinder 2.2lit Diesel, auto, 1WK 1KR,130,000kms, RWC, $26,350.00 ONO. Phone Maxwell K Batey 0419 547 308. SOLD

1998 Jayco Eagle 12 folding camper, excellent condition, queen size bed, provisions for 2-3 children comfortably, reg (R91716), $12,000. Ph 0490 780 438.

2005 Toyota Corolla Ascent Hatchback (TIZ667) May 15. 126,000km, manual, 17" alloy wheels, TRD upgrades, tinted windows, excellent condition $8000. Ph 0438 988 608.

BRAND NEW BOAT PACKAGE Stacer 379 Proline boat, Bimini Boat cover, Honda 15 HP outboard, 7 year warranty, Stacer trailer, 12 months rego, safety gear $13,000. Ph 0429 082 292.

HOSKIN, John. We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude for the love, support and condolences on John’s passing.

A special thank you to the sta at Bindaree Hostel for their incredible kindness and unwavering support of John throughout his time there. We deeply appreciate the care and compassion they showed him, which meant so much to our family. ~ The Hoskin family.

91 Highett Street Mansfield Ph 5779 1445

Mountain bikers roll the dice in the dust

By DAMIAN GRUNDY

IT was a pleasant evening, not baking hot.

A small crew of committed mountain bikers lined up for another roll of the dice in the dust.

A relatively simple lap of approximately 2.9km had been set and as usual riders were competing together but, based on varying degrees of ability and tness, their number of laps varied.

Shooting o rst was Ant Bateup with 5 laps, he was

followed a minute and a half later by Ryder Chadd also on 5 laps.

And so followed the rest followed at their allotted timed and with their individual numbers of laps.

Cody Stephens put in a blistering rst lap and was looking good for a high placing.

The leading riders kept turning away and approaching the nish it was Tom Logan-Williams with an ever more slender lead over the hard-charging young fella

CONGRATULATIONS, BOYS: While the U16s triumphed, Taj took home the

basketballers.

Under 16s taste gold in Wangaratta

By ANDREA DOLLING

IT was another warm weekend for the Mans eld Eagles U16 gold boys’ trip to Wangaratta for the Benalla Basketball Tournament.

The boys played Myrtleford rst up and came away with a comfortable win of 58-33.

Next up came the Wodonga Wolves Navy.

The boys played a fast paced game with Sam delivering his personal best 24 points, securing another win 42-29.

The team then travelled to Benalla for their third game of the day to take on Albury and although the boys fought hard, the game didn’t go their way resulting in a loss of 17-30.

Sunday saw the boys return to Benalla to face o with Tatura.

They did all that the coach-

es, Justin and Brent asked and worked well as a team taking the win 54-15.

The team had made it through to the semi nals to battle it out against Shepparton Gators.

It was a tough game but the boys consistently gave it their all and came out victors 45-34.

Then came the big one. The Grand Final had them matched up with Wodonga Wolves Maroon.

It was always going to be a huge undertaking to get up on this team, but our boys were determined.

Taj was rst to hit the scoreboard and away they went.

Jack’s speed saw him tearing down the court and landing layups while Chance hitting his 3 pointers gave us some breathing space.

But Wodonga were also playing to win.

They too hit some 3’s and our lead decreased.

Sam and Zac were great under the ring, taking rebounds and landing goals in the o ensive and delivering some great blocks in the o ensive, helping to hold the lead.

Oscar also delivered his share of 3 pointers, intercepts and blocks, while Josh’s speed, ball control and ability to read play saw him take plenty of intercepts and charging through to score.

However, Wodonga kept pushing back narrowing the lead to just a few points.

Justin and Brent kept the boys focused and performing to their best.

All taking their share of intercepts, blocks and goals.

With 2 minutes on the clock the game was neck and neck.

We’d score, they’d score.

Our team fouls gave them free shots that reduced our lead to 3 points, the smallest margin of the game.

With less the a minute to go Taj was up to the free through line for our turn at foul shots.

The pressure was on but Taj was able to deliver.

A few more tense seconds and the siren sounded, drowned out by cheers from a strong Mans eld Crowd.

The boys had won with anal 37-32. Congratulations to all the boys and to Taj who took home home the tournament MVP award.

It was a great weekend that the boys should be proud of.

A huge thanks to the commitment of coaches Justin and Brent and to all the parent helpers that make it all possible.

Ben Ross.

Tom had just enough juice in the tank to resist young Ben’s charge and he crossed the line rst to win the night.

Ben Ross nished barely a bike’s length back in 2nd.

David Bock was third and Tim Ross fourth with Cody Stephens holding on for h.

Less than a minute separated the top ve! Well done to Ben Ross who had the fastest lap times for the evening.

Next week it’s Gravity Enduro time again.

Grand final victory for U14 golden girls

By ROBYN THORNTON

THE Mans eld Under-14 girls Gold team has returned victorious from the Benalla Basketball Association Delatite Ford Tournament, taking home their rst grand nal win of the representative season with a commanding 37-5 victory over Wangaratta Warriors U14 Girls.

The tournament, played locally in Manseld and surrounding areas, saw the team dominate across all their matches.

In their opening game, the girls triumphed 24-15 against Yorta Yorta Turtles.

They followed that up with an impressive 39-9 win over Yarra-Mul Lakers in the second game, before a resounding 40-14 victory against Wodonga Wolves in their nal Saturday match.

On Sunday, the girls continued their winning streak with a 48-6 triumph over Albury Cougars, before heading to Benalla for the grand nal.

There, they showed their strength and resilience once again, securing a 37-5 win over Wangaratta to clinch the championship and bring home the medals.

Georgia Crowe was awarded MVP by the referees of the Grand Final game.

Coach Jason Campbell was full of praise for the team’s performance.

“The girls’ energy and focus throughout the entire tournament was outstanding,” Campbell said.

“The team reaped the rewards of their incredible teamwork in o ence and defence, which made all the di erence.”

This win marks a signi cant milestone in the season for the Mans eld U14 Gold girls, who are now looking ahead with great optimism for the upcoming tournaments.

The team’s hard work and dedication have certainly paid o this tournament.

A massive thanks to coaches, team managers, parents and the many supporters we had over the weekend.

THE IRISH HANDICAP PODIUM: (from le ): Tim Ross, Ben Ross, Tom Logan-Williams, Dave Bock and Cody Stephens.

PHOTO: Damian Grundy

tournament MVP award on a big day for Mansfield’s

Mansfield swimmers make a splash in pool and open water

By ALLI WALKER

IT was a weekend of aquatic action for Mans eld swimmers, with excitement both in the pool and out in the open water.

The club hosted its biggestever Fast Friday event, with a record-breaking 59 swimmers competing across 47 events.

The energy was high as swimmers from the Benalla Swim Club joined the local competitors, making for a fantastic night of racing.

A huge thank you goes out to the many volunteers who made the event possible, including starters, marshalls, timekeepers, and the everimportant BBQ team.

Parental support was also on full display, with a standout moment coming from twelve brave parents who took on the challenge of a 33m freestyle race - much to the delight of their children and the crowd.

For a group of Mans eld swimmers, the competition continued beyond the pool as

they took to the open water for the annual Go Nagambie Club to Pub swim on Saturday morning.

First-time open-water competitors Keziah Wolfe (12) Vivian Knight (10), and Heidi Setchell (10) embraced the challenge of the 600m course, with Kezi nishing an impressive 4th in the 1317 age group.

Meanwhile, Coach Amelie Walker showcased her endurance in the 1.1km loop, securing 3rd place in the 1834 category.

Parents Helen and Aaron Knight also stepped up to the challenge, completing the 1.1km swim, while Laura Carter tackled the 600m course. North East Triathlon Club member Tony Ruddick also made waves in the 1.1km swim, representing the region with determination.

Congratulations to all swimmers for their dedication and achievements over a weekend lled with outstanding performances and community spirit both in the pool and beyond.

Three perfect nights of tennis

By DAN ROBERTSON, NICK FERGUSON, NATALIE BERGSMA and JO O’BRIEN

AFTER last week’s washout everyone was eager to play, and the weather was absolutely perfect.

Team Crockett defeated Team Hutchinson 4 sets 34 games to 2 sets 25 games.

Guy Taylor as a ll-in played some great tennis and won all three sets.

Young Max O’Loughlan looked to be striking the ball very cleanly and won the last set of the night in a thriller tiebreaker 11/9.

Max looks like a future club champ.

Team Aldous defeated Tram Murray 5 sets 35 games to 1 set 19 games.

Team Murray sitting second on the ladder have been on re in recent weeks, but Aldous’ team Fiona Lindsay and ll-in Mark O’Loughlan won all three of their sets. Won’t take long for team Murray to get back in the winners’ circle.

Team Yencken defeated Team McDonagh 4 sets 31 games to 2 sets 23 games.

The score card did not reect the match, as team McDonagh played some very good tennis however with a bit of luck and some great tennis by Dion Theodossi, Anna Speirs and Soph Yencken they managed to get over the line in the end.

Tuesday Ladder: O’Loughlan 48, Yencken 43,

McDonagh 41, Murray 40, Aldous 39, Crockett 36.5, Blackall 36, Hutchison 23.5 Ladder leaders “Out of the Blue” started strongly against “Red Roses” racing to a 2-set lead despite a gallant ght from Robert Williams and Sean Pitchford going down 9-7 in the tie breaker.

Emma Kay and Sean got the better of Chris Hewlett and Steph Herridge to snatch one set back whilst Matty Lowe and Will McAlister were winners.

Going into the nal pairings it was 3-1.

Lisa Morgan and Sean emerged victorious 6-3 against Will and Steph with Sean continuing to chase everything down to the point of near exhaustion!

In a monumental tussle Emma and Robert won the tie breaker 9-7 to tie the match up at 3 sets a piece. With the bonus point going to the “Red Roses” with a 1 game advantage this match could not have been any closer.

Well done, “Roses”! Meanwhile, over on Courts 1 and 2 “Burnt Orange” took on Husbands and Wives team “True Colours”.

Kate and Rob Les, Liz and Peter Scales proved a cut above their opposition running out to win all 7 match points. It wasn’t all a walk in the park though with Laura Gosney and Mel Kormoczi pushing Rob and Liz all the way in a tie breaker, falling just short 5-7.

Laura and Max O’Loughlan, lling in for Warren, were unable to celebrate Max’s birthday eve, coming close but losing 4-6 against the cra y pairing of Rob and Peter.

Happy birthday Max.

Pete and Liz showed that their newfound hobby of crocheting has not dulled their competitive edge, beating Max and Mel 6-2.

Kate continued her impressive form against Abbey McConnell, conceding only 5 games over the night.

As always, they were cheered on, and only occasionally distracted, by the resident Kookaburras!!

With 4 rounds to go there was everything to play for 4th placed “Crimson Souls” and 3rd placed “Brown Sugar”.

“Crimson Souls”: Simon Young, David Mims, Aaron Knight ( lling in for wife Helen) and Suzie Wellborne proved way too powerful for Nick Ferguson, Hannah Aldous, Julie Aldous and Leonie McLaughlin, cruising to all 7 match points in a commanding victory.

It wasn’t all power though, especially with Simon adapting to the blustery conditions and giving Ferguson the runaround with accurate placement and de touches all night. 6-4, 6-3, 6-3.

Team captain Suzie was far too consistent for her opponent Leonie winning 6-3, 6-3, 6-0.

Mims made a mockery of the rumor that he was play-

ing on one leg by only dropping 6 games for the night.

Handy ll in Aaron was only challenged in his rst set triumphing 6-4 before running out 6-0, 6-0 to complete the rout.

Wednesday ladder: Out of the Blue 60, True Colours 47, Crimson Souls 43, Brown Sugar 38, Red Roses 31, Burnt Orange 12.

It was a stunning evening for tennis and perfect conditions a er the rain interruptions of last week.

Let’s Dance included newcomer James Riedel and Millie Bell into their match against Come Together.

Michael McCormack and Bec Wardenaar needed time to adjust with their new teammates but eventually they did and later claimed that more sets would’ve seen them win the match.

Shane Richards, Kass Thomas, and Rhonda and Bob Carpenter combined strongly in the rst two sets, but Let’s Dance got on top in the last sets taking both in style against the top side.

Come Together won 4/30 to 2/23.

The centre courts saw a great tussle between 2nd and 3rd on the ladder Smooth Operators and Let it Be.

The opening set between Arthur Gerrans and Brendan Purcell and Natalie Bergsma with Agnes Kay went for almost an hour and with the boys eventual winners in a tie breaker. Perhaps Arthur’s

big serve was the di erence.

Let it Be were lucky enough to have Carol Watts ll in for an injured Jodie Morrow, and she may have been their lucky charm.

Carol was the only player to win all 3 of her sets. Let it Be won the evening 4 sets to 2 and took home 5 match points.

This wasn’t enough to take second spot from Smooth Operators, but it was an enjoyable hit out against great opposition.

Over on courts 5 and 6 Changes took on Night Fever.

Liza Karras and Jo O’Brien set the tone for the evening when they took on Suzie Wellborne and Chelsea Dean and came out 6 to 0 victors.

Night Fever’s Suzie, Chelsea, Bron Sly and Courtney Purcell took games in every other set, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Changes dominance on the night with Changes Liza, Jo, Jason O’Brien and Les Kerr winning 36 games to 12 and taking home 7 match points to 0.

Thursday ladder: Come Together 58, Smooth Operators 51, Let it Be 41.5, Changes 40.5, Night Fever 24, Let’s Dance 16.

The Juniors were excited to be back in action this week with many close matches throughout the morning.

Thanks as always to our amazing parent helpers.

Well done to our section winners Jota Andrijweskyj, Noah Kayssar, Henry Yenck-

en, Henry Dunlop, Alastair Ross, Patrick Delany and Eadie Hostetter. The Junior club championships will be held this Saturday 1st March. Girls and Boys singles will be sorted into 16/Under, 14/Under, 12/ Under and 10/Under sections played in a round-robin then knock-out format.

Players are welcome to warm up from 8.30am for a 9.00am start.

Please register your interest by Thursday 27th Feb with our Junior Co-ordinator Joanne O’Brien and a BBQ will be provided on the day. This event is for Mans eld Junior Club members only. Entries for the MTA Club Championships have closed. On Monday 3th MarchMixed Doubles, both A and B Grade, Tuesday 4th March - Men’s Singles, both A Grade and B Grade, Wednesday 5th March - Women’s Singles, both A Grade and B Grade, Thursday 6th March - Men’s and Women’s Doubles.

Spectators are most welcome.

Play will commence at 6.00pm each evening.

Courts will be open from 5.30pm for warm up.

Entry fee ($5) payable each evening on arrival.

The MTA committee will oversee each evening’s play, allocate courts and referee if necessary.

Trophies will be presented at the conclusion of each championship.

A PERFECT NIGHT: Dan Robertson, Anna Speirs, Dion Theodossi and Sophie Yencken. PHOTO: Cal Bono

Merton chasing finals cricket despite defeat

By ROHAN BERRIMAN

MERTON’S cricketers hosted the City Colts from Wangaratta on Saturday in hot, dry and windy conditions at the Merton cricket ground.

Merton won the toss and put themselves in to bat making 7/168 with 72 runs coming from a solid opening partnership between top scorer Luke Berriman (49) and Daryl King (25).

A er a good start for Merton, the City Colts bounced back and managed to restrict the Merton middle order’s run scoring while taking some wickets along the way.

A 6th wicket partnership of 58

between Ross Mackinnon (29) and Josh Johnson (29) saw Merton set a competitive score in the later overs. Though competitive it was maybe a little under par on what proved to be a quick and dry out eld.

Kent Braden 3/36 and Darcy Sanders 2/8 were the pick of the City Colts bowlers.

City Colts had a few former A graders on the team bus to Merton and it made all the di erence.

Opener Kent Braden quickly and decisively took the game away from Merton with a ne 92.

His opening partner Ross Moore (28) helped him put on 77 for the rst wicket.

Though the home side bounced back taking 3/3 with Noah Whittall (3/29) and all rounder Luke Berriman (2/16) giving their team some

hope for victory, it was not to be.

The experience of Nick Norris (35*) saw the City Colts pass Merton’s total in the 34th over.

Jai Lerch-Mackinnon (1/33) was the other consistent bowler for the home side.

Merton probably didn’t put quite enough runs on the board and a few costly overs swung the momentum in the favour of a very experienced Wangaratta side.

Lessons learnt for Merton. Merton have the bye next Saturday and then host the in form Rovers in the last round in the WDCA B Grade competition.

Merton sit 5th on the ladder and will be hoping a few results go their way to ensure a top 6 nish to the season and the opportunity to play nals cricket.

Rookies flock as Bowls Club hosts bowling blitz

■ From back page

Michael Harrison, Steve Lewis, Noel Jackson and Sid Revell won their rink by nine shots.

Mick Walsh, Ray Robinson, Graeme Smith and Enid Smith were beaten 13 to 26.

George Peterson, Elaine Peterson, Chris Laws and Marian Ryan lost 24 to 25 and on the nal rink John Foots, Peter Roberts, Mark Bettany and Shane O’Brien won 30 to 14.

Mans eld won the day 89 to 78, keeping them in thenals with two chances.

The A3 Weekend team played at Wangaratta in the rst nal against Beechworth for the second week in a row. Mike Harrison, Steve Lewis, Noel Jackson and Sid Revell were defeated 16 to 32.

George Peterson, Elaine Peterson, Chris Laws and Marian Ryan won 18 to 15.

Mick Walsh, Ray Robinson, Graeme Smith and Enid Smith won 22 to 19 and the nal rink was a good win by John Foots’ team of Peter Roberts, Mark Bettany and Shane O’Brien 33 to 11.

The overall result was a win to Mans eld 89 to 77, also earning a week o before the Grand Final on Saturday 1st March.

Good luck team. In Home Pennant thenal round of the competition saw the Blue team of Alan Dobson, Tom Ingpen, Anne Tilbrook and Ida Rachele

defeated by the Red team of Dizzy Tyers, Tom Nicol, Rossy Parsons and Phil Jenson 26 to13. Steve Lewis’ Pink team with Brian Sinclair, Peter Wooley and Cathy John-

son won 18 to 15 to Lime, with Carolyn Close, Peter McNeill, Belinda Snider and Anne Wileman.

Ray Close’s Gold team with Kath Bock, Denis Sharpe and

Elva Healey got up 27 to 14 against team Orange with Domingo Diaz, Alan Hatcher, Michelle Mios (and Tilley) and Glenda Hempenstall.

On the last rink Nikko’s team Yellow with Kris Humphrey, Heather Ingpen and Ray Fraser won 22 to 16 against Glenda Revell, Tony Wilkes, John Lobbe and Renee Prosser in team Green.

At the end of the Home Pennant rounds, a vote count was conducted.

With votes for the best player each week being voted by the opposition peers, Anne Wileman was for 2025 voted best Home Pennant player.

Congratulations to Anne on your achievement.

The Home Pennant nals were ercely contested last week.

Team Green with Marco Bohren, Glenda Revell, Tony Wilkes and Renee Prosser defeated Steve Lewis’ team Pink with Brian Sinclair, Gwen Gray and Cathy Johnson to go through into nals.

Dizzy’s Red team with Tom Nicol, Ross Parsons and Philip Jenson defeated the Lime team of Carolyn Close, Peter McNeill, Belinda Snider and Anne Wileman, dashing their nals hopes.

Pink and Red will play the

Preliminary Final with Green having a week o . Last but not least the Men’s Club Handicap Pairs was held over the last two Sundays.

Mark Bettany and Nikko lined up against Graeme Smith and Greg Hogarth to have a 2 shot win.

They went on to play Ray Robinson and Tony Wilkes and were beaten by 5 shots. Mick Walsh and Peter McNeil lost their round to Rick Nichols and Shane O’Brien who then played Steve Lewis and Alan Dobson who won that game. In the nal round Alan Dobson and Steve Lewis were up against Tony Wilkes and Ray Robinson.

The match was fairly closely contested over 16 ends. Congratulations to Robbo and Tony for a nal result of 10 to 6.

Rookies Bowls on Monday nights is being well attended with close to 50 people turning up each week.

The ladder a er four rounds sees the top four spots out of 14 are The All Blacks on top 63, CMD Bashers 2nd on 57, DCD and The Le overs both on 55.

There have been some surprise moves on the ladder in early weeks.

MEPPS SPINNERS: A TIMELESS LURE OF CHOICE FOR CATCHING TROUT

RECENT fishing conditions around the rivers feeding Lake Eildon have been mixed, with water levels fluctuating due to rainfall and summer heat.

The Goulburn River below Eildon Pondage has seen steady flows, making for good fishing early in the morning and late afternoon.

Water clarity has been decent, but recent storms have muddied up some sections.

The Howqua and Jamieson Rivers have been running okay, though warm temperatures have made trout more sluggish during midday.

Trout activity has been best in shaded, deeper runs and under overhanging vegetation.

Anglers fishing pocket water and riffles in the early morning with spinners, particularly Mepps, have reported solid catches of brown and rainbow trout in the 25-40 cm range.

Fly fishers have had some success with nymphs and terrestrials, but spinning with Mepps spinners has been the

most consistent method for hooking up, especially in fastermoving water.

Mepps Spinners – A timeless trout lure

Mepps spinners have been around since 1938 when they were conceived in France by André Meulnart an engineer and angler.

The company quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality inline spinners, and in the 1950s, an American businessman, Todd Sheldon, popularised them in the United States and in Australia.

Today, Mepps remains one of the most trusted brands for freshwater fishing worldwide, particularly for targeting trout in rivers.

Performance in Victorian Trout Streams

Mepps spinners have consistently proven to be one of the best lures for trout in the rivers around Lake Eildon.

Their design features a rotating blade that creates vibration and flash, which mimics small baitfish and insects.

This triggers aggressive strikes from both brown and rainbow trout, especially in faster currents.

Key benefits of Mepps spinners in these waters:

 Versatility – Whether fishing deep pools, fast runs, or shallow riffles, Mepps spinners work in nearly any water condition.

 Effective in Clear and Stained Water – The blade’s flash and vibration make them an excellent choice when water clarity varies due to rain or runoff.

 Reliable Hook-Ups – The sharp treble hooks provide solid hook sets, reducing the chances of losing fish.

 Multiple Sizes and Colours – For local rivers, sizes #1 and #2 in gold or silver are ideal, while black fury and red/white patterns work well in overcast conditions.

Anglers who have used Mepps spinners in the Goulburn, Howqua, and Jamieson Rivers report that a steady retrieve with occasional pauses often results in aggressive strikes. Fishing them upstream and retrieving with the current tends to work best.

Mepps spinners remain one of the most reliable lures for catching trout in the rivers around Lake Eildon.

If you’re looking for a proven, easy-to-use lure that consistently produces fish, you can’t go wrong with a Mepps in your tackle box.

PICTURED: ANGLERS FISHING

POCKET WATERS: With spinners in the

have reported

and

of

with BEN DEEBLE

early morning

solid catches

brown

rainbow trout.

Mulwala with Mansfield’s travelling Tuesday pennant team.

he is a real cool hand on the green.

PHOTOS: Marc Bongers

Season draws to a close for U12s

By ANDREW COOK

MANSFIELD’s Blue and Gold U12 teams hit the road on Saturday for the last games of their 16-round season.

While Gold struggled against one of the ladder-leaders, Blue fared better against a more evenly-matched opponent.

Gold bowled rst against Yarrawonga Mulwala Lakers in Benalla, hoping to prevent the avalanche of runs that has occurred in their last few meetings.

Gold certainly got o to a good start, taking four wickets and restricting the Lakers to only 39 at the half-way mark.

Jay Kancherla took two of the four wickets, the rst via an excellent stumping thanks to the quick re exes of keeper Xavier Heaysman.

A er drinks, a combination of wayward bowling and some power

XAVIER HEAYSMAN: Epitomising the growth shown all the under 12s, young Xavier showed the U12s have much to be excited about next season with his run a ball innings.

hitting from the Lakers’ lower order took the game well beyond the reach of Gold, with the Lakers nishing on 6/125 from their twenty overs.

Best of the bowlers was Kancherla with 2/11, then Callum Logan Williams with 1/3.

Gold’s reply innings maintained a steady run-rate, and they found themselves well ahead of the Lakers at drinks, reaching 47 with only the loss of two wickets.

The runs primarily came o the bats of brothers Xavier and Noah Heaysman, who each retired a er scoring at more than a run a ball.

A er drinks three watchful innings from Eddie Creighton, Alex Craddock and Tom Steele ensured that Delatite would not be skittled inside their allotted twenty overs, but the required run-rate soon climbed out of reach of even the Heaysman brothers who returned to the crease late in the innings.

Gold nished on 6/67, a respectable score for their last innings of the season.

Blue made the longer trip to Wangaratta to take on Magpies White, and found themselves sent in a er losing the toss.

Coming o a personal best of 40 in the previous game, captain Billy Briggs continued where he le o by scoring 19 across two visits to the middle, both at the start and the end of the innings.

While some of his teammates contributed around him, four ducks ensured the total did not climb as high as the team had hoped, nishing on 8/63.

White’s opener Dylan Dickson one-upped Briggs by making 24 runs at the top of the order, and two other batters reached double gures.

Blue’s tight bowling ensured the lowest number of extras for the season, ensuring White had to continue

scoring at a healthy rate to pass the victory target.

Wickets were spread evenly across Blue’s bowlers with seven individual wicket-takers, with Roy Mercieca leading the way with 1/5.

The return of Dickson and fellow opener Harry Gumley meant that White were able to pass Blue’s tally, White nishing on 7/85.

Mans eld’s U12s will play onenal intra-club match on Wednesday the 26th, and nish o the season with two parents vs kids matches on Sunday the 2nd of March.

This year has seen incredible growth in the number of U12s cricketers, with 38 kids playing at least one game.

While both Blue and Gold have seen little success on the eld, the experience has been invaluable both for those graduating to U14s next year, and for those who will be one year older and stronger when they return to U12s later this year.

Last home game ends in defeat for B-Grade

By ANDREW COOK

DELATITE’s B-Grade team played their last home game of the season on Saturday against Rovers United Bruck.

Unfortunately, the result re ected the two side’s respective positions on the league table.

Delatite sent Rovers United Bruck in to bat, looking to claim early wickets and hoping to quickly access a middle order sprinkled with juniors, as is the case in most visiting B-grade teams this year.

However the cricket gods were not smiling on Delatite, more than half a dozen mis-timed shots fell either the smallest of distances short of, or

ew agonisingly close to, the grasping ngertips of Delatite’s eager elders.

Despite this lack of luck, the elding e ort was one of the best for the year.

A fact best evidenced by Mitch Clarke and Cooper Martin who both recovered from missed sharp chances (and resultant bleeding and bruised ngers) to take three catches and snare a runout between the two of them.

RUB opener Gary Elliot quickly settled and soon took a liking to Delatite’s bowlers.

When he was joined at the crease by James Campbell at number three, they piled on 93 runs for the second wicket.

Elliot looked almost unstoppable and it took a straight and low ball from spinner Mitch Adams to dismiss him LBW on 75, what a way for Adams to claim his rst wicket for the club.

Felix O’Meara then chipped in with his debut B-grade wicket and impressed all with his excellent line and length.

The return of opening bowlers

Ritchie Philip and Andrew Cook saw four further wickets fall which allowed Delatite to slow RUB to 7/189 a er their 36 overs.

Delatite’s reply started con dently with Mitch Copey leading the way while Joshua Cook held down the other end.

Big win after bigger performances by Delatite

By JOE KELLEHER

DELATITE A Reserve lost the toss and were sent into bowl by the City Colts.

Opening bowlers Joe Kelleher and Nick Hoskin had a day out with Colts batsman who struggled to nd their eye to see the Hoskin’s quick le handed deliveries.

Hoskin nished up with 3/24 of 8 overs.

Having gotten o to a great start with early wickets for both opening bowlers, the trend for the rest of the innings was set and the City Colts struggled to build meaningful partnerships.

Delatite was able to break into the lower with some great bowling by Nathan Goodes who nished up with gures of 3/23 of his 8 overs. Goodes was very unlucky not to have ve or six on the day as a few close decisions by the umpire didn’t quite going Delatite’s way.

The Colts were bowled out for 125 in the 35th over.

Bowling gures for the rest of the bowlers were Lochie Pymer (1/20), Joe Kelleher (1/38), Max O’Loughlan (1/9) and Joel Middleton (10/1).

Delatite’s innings at the crease got o to a rocky start with the loss of two early wickets.

Enter the man, the myth and the legend - Trent Berry, who has come back to the side recently from injury and has wasted no timing tting right back into place. He has added an incredible amount to the club and to the team with his positive attitude and his determination with bat in hand

He’s also a gun elder who has started to cause opposition teams headaches. Batting at 4, Berry built a partnership with league leading run-scorer Mark O’Loughlan and together they took the game away from the City Colts who were hit to all parts of the ground by both batsmen who played with incredible patience and determination.

Mark O’Loughlan once again turned up with a gritty 62 runs running multiple 3s in hot conditions.

Unfortunately, a er Copey’s rst partner eventually fell it led to an alltoo familiar middle order collapse.

While Copley continued to score con dently, he could only watch on as four further teammates fell around him.

Patrick Smith joined him in the middle and staved o the inevitable for several overs, but they were soon dismissed and even though Delatite’s tail wagged a little the inevitable end soon came and Delatite nishing all out for 96.

Two long trips await the B-grade team for their nal two matches, next week they travel to Rutherglen and then will nish the season in Myrtleford.

Trent Berry fell tragically short of a half century on 47 but he batted brilliantly the whole time he was at the crease and is looking in terri c touch going into the pointy end of the season. Well done to both Trent and Mark on a matchwinning partnership. There was also some good lower order batting on display as Mark and Trent looked to hit out unsel shly and gave the middle and lower order a chance to bat.

Kane Hoskin made 17* while Koby Middleton nished not out as well. Well done to Delatite who nished winners on 5/149 from 40 overs.

AT THE CREASE: Mitch Copey defends a ball, watched on by opening partner Joshua Cook (#33).

Mansfield Mad Dash ends in twilight drama

THE Mans eld Mad Dash delivered yet another thrilling sunset showdown last Thursday, as riders battled crosswinds, questionable tactics and a disastrous gravel detour in this week’s handicap race.

A big welcome to Bill Bainger (visiting from SA for a few months) who enjoyed his rst outing with the MMBCC.

Micala Jacobs set o rst, riding a smooth, metronomic pace, while the faster riders behind worked in groups, chasing hard.

Simon Mulvihill, Heath Hammond and Mick Pearce formed a perfect echelon, slicing through the eld like a well-oiled machine.

Further back, an unnamed rider made a bold but disastrous move, veering onto a gravel section in the hope that a detour may alleviate the pain in the legs.

His bike wobbled violently as he fought to keep momentum.

He was le watching helplessly as the race disappeared ahead.

Meanwhile, Andy Garrett, the nal rider to start, was unleashed upon the course like the Terminator.

He devoured the eld at an alarming rate and blew past struggling competitors on tiring legs.

Garrett’s aero silhouette cut through the warm light of the golden hour like a hunting falcon.

But Andy le his charge too late.

Big

By LINDA TERRY

THIS week saw the start of our pennant season for our Division 1 ladies and the result was an emphatic 5/0 win over Benalla.

Played with the usual great camaraderie and enjoyment, catching up with our mates from around the district who we’ve missed over the summer months, it was nonethe-less a very pleasing way to kick o our 2025 pennant season!

Our Division 3 and Division 4 girls start their campaigns in two weeks’ time, with this coming Friday being the NEDGA Women’s Opening Day at Yarrawonga.

Meanwhile at home, Tuesday had another good eld of 13 playing stableford o the front nine and Susan Kinloch had a solid round to win with 18 points on a countback to

Mick Pearce’s group, still executing a perfect echelon, worked like a well-oiled machine and held the hunting falcon o to take the win just as the last light of day faded.

At the nish line, exhausted riders swapped stories of crosswinds, magpie attacks and gravel-fueeld regret.

Mick Pearce came in 1st, Simon Mulvihill 2nd and Heath Hammond 3rd.

The Mans eld Mad Dash had once again lived up to its name - a race full of thrills, spills, and lessons in why you should never trust a gravel shortcut.

The best part being riders get to take it on again next Thursday night - two and a half laps around the Merinda Way Loop. Many thanks to all our dedicated volunteers and to the Mans eld Hotel for their hospitality and generosity.

Division 1 Pennant

By ROD SARGENT

IT has been another great week at the golf club and a big weekend is coming up.

Next Saturday is the annual Pink ball day for men and women, proudly sponsored by Alan Parrott, Dave McKenzie and Maurie Walsh. It will be a fun day for all in this Stableford event, where you can play as a team of men, women or mixed.

Then on Sunday we have the annual Mansfield Hospital Auxillary golf day, proudly sponsored by the Mansfield Motor Group.

This charity event raises a lot of money for the hospital every year, with a fun packed day of golf, dinner and an auction.

Now for the results of the week. Tuesday’s event was around of stroke with 35 players in the field.

3rd place was Rob Healy with a nett 70, 2nd was Nick Siperki with nett 70 also and Domingo Diaz was 1st with a nett 69.

Best gross for the day was Rob Dundas.

Thursday was the normal Stableford with 74 players.

C grade 3rd place was David Kynnersley with 37pts, Joel O’Sullivan was 2nd with 37pts also and Stuart Hogg was 1st with 39pts.

Kylie Egan. Robyn Bridgewater was back and in form, with 17 points for 3rd place.

On Wednesday, we had a stableford Summer Cup round with 32 ladies rolling up.

Some very good scoring with half the eld greater than 30 points.

It was great to see some new and returning faces – such as Jenni Sparnon, who is back a er a lot of years where work and life got in the way.

Jenni played beautifully to win the day and B Grade, with 37 points, which included a fabulous 2 for 5 on the 9th!

Joining her on the B Grade podium were Glenis Skinner 2nd and Sharon Gysberts 3rd, both with 36 points.

A Grade was won by Sue Parsons with 36, from Lyn Poulson and Nicki Cooper both with 33.

Nearest the pins went to Millie Cumming, Glenis Skinner Jenni Sparnon, Sheryl Sargent and Tracey Gravenall.

Saturday was a hot one, but this didn’t deter 19 ladies from hitting the course…

Not this writer - it was just too windy!

Louise Calvert-Jones certainly revelled in the conditions however, taking the win with 37 points.

Followed by Lyn Poulson 36, Anne Blampied 34, Marion Sargeant 33, Shirley Notan 32 and Sue Crow 32.

Nearest the pins went to Lesley Anderson, Anne Blampied and Sam Bailey.

Next Weds is our February Monthly Medal, sponsored by Senae’s Collections.

Good hitting everyone.

Shane Brook was 3rd in B grade with 39pts, Geoff Morris was 2nd with 39pts also and Aaron Roberts came 1st with 40pts.

A grade winners were, in 3rd place Mark Bettany with 39pts, David Octigan 2nd with 41pts and Ross Brown had a fantastic 42pts to finish 1st.

The Pro Pin went to Tim Hook and the secret six was won by David Kynnersley.

Saturday was another day of Stableford with 64 players in the field.

B grade winners were, in 3rd place, Alan Parrott with 38pts, Chris Byers 2nd with 41pts and Nick Wilcox 1st with a great 43pts. A grade saw Paul Lange 3rd with 38pts, also Paul had 2 nearest the pins inside 2 feet, 2nd place was Jack Marks also with 38pts and Mick Cooksey was first with 39pts and a much better handicap than his brother as well.

The Pro pin was won by Geoff Morris.

Coming up in two weeks time will be the Parsons Family Day 4BBB, hosted by Bill and Sue. Happy hitting.

THE WINNING GROUP: Turning into Barwite Road (from le ) Heath Hammond, Mick Pearce and Simon Mulvihill.

Rookies flock as Bowls Club hosts bowling blitz

By MARK BETTANY

MANSFIELD Bowls Club is now coming into the pointy end of the Pennant season for Ovens & Murray and Home Pennant.

Mike Harrison, Mark Bettany, Irene Fuller and Enid Smith won 21 to 13 and on the next rink George Peterson, Elain Peterson, Chris Laws and Marian Ryan won 20 to 13.

Mick Walsh, Noel Jackson, Jenny Walsh and Yvonne Robinson sealed the deal 24 to 17.

Our travelling Tuesday Pennant team played Club Mulwala at home on Tuesday 11th, coming away with a good win to stay on top of the ladder and have two dips at the nals.

In the rst Semi Final round Mans eld played Wodonga at Wangaratta.

Mick Walsh, Noel Jackson, Jenny Walsh and Yvonne Robinson went down by only one shot.

George Peterson, Elain Peterson, Chris Laws and Marian Ryan got up by two shots and Michael Harrison, Mark Bettany, Irene Fuller

and Lyn Holland won by seven, giving Mans eld an eight shot win, earning a rest for the next week and going straight into the Grand Final on March 4th at a venue yet to be decided.

In Weekend Pennant the A4 team tried hard in the nal round at home against Wangaratta, being beaten by only three shots.

Jenny Walsh, Lyn Holland, Irene Fuller and Yvonne Robinson won their rink by nine shots.

Ray Close, Winston Taylor, Carolyn Close and Ken Rainsbury went down 12 to 32.

Dizzy Tyers, Kevin “Nikko” Nikkelson, Nick Klein and Vicki Klein also won by nine shots, with the nal rink of Rick Nichols, Alan Dobson,

Ross Parsons and Anne Tilbrook losing by only one shot. The nal result saw Manseld go down by only three shots overall.

Good season everyone and better luck next year.

Good news in the A3 Pennant with Mans eld playing Beechworth at home.

■ Continued page 41

, Treatment Plants, Grease Traps,

ROLLING THUNDER: Elain Peterson represented Mansfield in Wangaratta and played her part with panache, helping her team battle for victory. PHOTO: Marc Bongers