Mansfield Courier 270923

And they’re off! Mansfield Cup action

Mansfield gathering to discuss historic referendum marked by bitterness and division ggy Countdown to the vote

ON October 14, Australia will vote on whether to enshrine an Indigenous Voice to Parliament in the Constitution, an upcoming referendum which has sparked extensive – and sometimes – bitter debate within the community.

Nearly 90 people gathered at the Delatite Hotel in Mansfield last Tuesday to attend a referendum information and conversation session hosted by federal Independent member for Indi Dr Helen Haines.

Dr Haines was joined by Taungurung man and former Victorian First

BY HANNAH KENNELLY hkennelly@ nemedia.com.au

Peoples Assembly cochair Marcus Stewart, Wangkumarra/Barkindji man and co-convenor of Liberals for Yes

Sean Gordon AM and constitutional law professor Kim Rubenstein, of Canberra University.

Dr Haines said it was important to have “safe spaces for important conversations”.

“This is a place for information and a space to ask questions regardless if

you are voting yes, no or if you are still undecided,” she said.

She explained her decision not to feature any panellists from the No campaign.

“The No case is the status quo and what we are proposing is a change to the status quo,” she said.

“I am so thrilled to see so many of you here today, seeking more information so that you can walk into the polling booth on referendum day knowing you’ve done your homework, knowing you’ve used your head and your heart to make a decision to

shape our nation.

“We are being asked if we want a new chapter in our Constitution, one that recognises the oldest continuous culture in the world and gives them a voice in advising policies which impact them.”

Mr Stewart addressed the misinformation surrounding the Voice to Parliament’s purpose and proposed powers.

“The idea of the Voice is all about listening,” he explained.

“We know workplaces are better when bosses listen to their employees, when teachers listen to their

students and when nurses listen to their patients.

“We therefore know governments make better policies and laws when they listen to those affected by them.

“If this referendum passes, the only requirement on government is to listen.”

During the Q&A session, several people asked why the Voice was necessary when “there were already Indigenous representatives in parliament” and other “previous Indigenous advisory bodies”.

Dr Haines acknowledged many previous governments had invested billions of

dollars into programs for “Indigenous groups with good intentions, but had still failed to close many gaps”.

“Everybody in this room wants to see Indigenous people have the same length of life, same educational opportunities and be able to drink clean water,” she said

“As a politician, what would help me is to have an official Voice, so I can ask questions about policies that will directly impact First Nations peoples.”

Professor Rubenstein said the proposed Voice will also allow for greater transparency.

■ Continued page 2

THE drivers of both vehicles walked away with no major injuries after this crash between Mansfield and Maindample. But several sheep were put down by a veterinarian at the scene. The road was closed for several hours.

PHOTO: Pam Zierk-Mahoney

See what’s going in the in the North East

IN REMEMBRANCE:

This Friday, the Council will light up the town’s police memorial blue in recognition of National Police Remembrance Day. Held annually on September 29, the day represents an opportunity for members of the police and the community to pause and honour the dedicated police officers who have died serving their community, and to remember those members who have lost their lives through illness or other circumstances. Unveiled in 1880, Mansfield’s police memorial was erected in memory of the three local policemen who died in the line of duty, shot by the Kelly gang at Stringybark Creek.

Honouring lives and sharing grief at Rosehaven

THE Rosehaven Hospice is inviting people to its annual heartfelt community memorial on October 14 from 5pm to 9pm at the Rosehaven Gardens.

The memorial provides an opportunity for people to come together, remember those that have died and support one another during times of grief.

This event aims to provide a safe space for individuals to share their grief, connect with others who understand their pain, and celebrate the lives of those who have departed.

It will include a candlelight vigil, a memorial service conducted by life and marriage celebrant MaryAnne Egan and a memorial table for attendees to place photos and mementos of their loved ones.

Plaques of remembrance will also be given to families that Rosehaven has supported through the conclusion of their person’s life in the last 12 months.

There will also be tree planting, support on hand and attendees are encouraged to bring some barbeque food and join in a shared meal.

Admission to the community memorial is free and all members of the community are encouraged to attend, regardless of whether their loss is recent or from years past.

“We understand that grief is a universal experience, and we want to create a space where our community members can come together to remember and heal,” said Rosehaven Manager Bianca Hurle.

“Rosehaven has always been a place of togetherness, and we hope this event will continue that tradition by offering support and comfort to those who need it.”

For more information or to inquire about support services or volunteer opportunities, please contact info@rosehaven.org.au or (03) 5775 3161.

Countdown to an historic referendum

■ From page 1

“This body will not only be reporting to Parliament, but because of its constitutional guarantee, it will also be reporting to us, as Australian citizens,” she said.

“We will be able to learn more about what Indigenous communities believe which will help hold our politicians accountable.

“This will raise the quality of representative democracy for all of us.”

Residents raised questions about the Voice’s proposed powers and specific structure.

“If the Referendum passes, parliamentarians will determine the exact legalisation,” Professor Rubenstein said.

“The Voice’s powers and procedures will be a matter for our elected representatives and our lawmakers to decide.

“We are voting on a principal of a body called the Voice, we

don’t put all the details in the Constitution, we get our parliament, who we elect, to do that.”

Another person in the audience asked why the referendum was “dividing the country by race” and why “Aboriginal people have a better connection to land than me.”

“I’ll put my hand up at the next census and I’ll tick the Aboriginal box and get a vote,” he said.

Mr Gordon said the referendum was about “recognition, not race”.

“We are recognising there have been a group of people here for over 65,000 years that have been forgotten about in the founding document of our country,” he said.

“That is absolutely not denying anyone else’s connection to county, it is simply about acknowledgement.

“The proposed Voice will help give Indigenous people a say on

outcomes that impact them and hold government accountable.

“If the Voice is enshrined in the Constitution, it will guarantee Indigenous people are always consulted, no matter which government is in power.”

Another person in the audience asked why the referendum had “been suddenly dumped on everyone without consultation.”

Mr Stewart explained the concept had been developed over decades and agreed on in 2017 through the Uluru Statement from Heart, a proposal by more than 250 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders.

Professor Rubenstein said Australia was an outlier compared to the rest of the international community.

“Australia is one of the few countries that do not recognise First Peoples in their constitution,” she said.

Earlier this year on ABC TV’s

“Q&A,” Minister for Indigenous Affairs Linda Burney said the Australian Constitution was “the only constitution of a first world nation with a colonial history that does not recognise its first people.”

Amid the sometimes ugly debate sparked by the referendum, Mr Stewart asked everyone to remain respectful and “not burn bridges with those they disagree with.”

“Everyone has a right to vote yes or no and that’s your democratic right,” he said.

“What we ask is that you are well informed and well aware of the facts

“Your family should still be your family after referendum day and your friends should still be your friends.

“This doesn’t have to be a heated debate; we just need to have respectful conversations on what the future of our country could look like.”

Short-stay tax to hit local holiday market

By HANNAH KENNELLY

RENTING an Airbnb in Mansfield is about to get more expensive.

From 2025, the State Government will levy a 7.5 per cent tax on short-term accommodation platforms such as Airbnb and Stayz to tackle the housing crisis.

The predicted $70 million annual tax revenue will go towards social and affordable housing, with 25 per cent of funds going to regional Victoria.

Premier Daniel Andrews announced the details last Wednesday as part of the state’s long-awaited housing statement

The move welcomed - and criticised - by a variety of businesses and stakeholders around the Mansfield Shire.

Liberal Member for Eildon Cindy McLeish said the new tax was an “unwelcome burden on business owners and tourists alike.”

“My electorate is a prime tourist destination supporting a large number of small business accommodation facilities,” she said.

“Another tax on top of already escalating operational costs will disadvantage this area and Victoria as a whole in the tourism market.

“The Andrews government is basically robbing Peter to pay Paul, with the impact to be felt more broadly across tourism support industries should visitor numbers decline in response to the increased prices.”

Details of how the levy will be collected are not yet available –however hotels are excluded.

A spokesperson from Airbnb Australia said the 7.5 per cent levy was “too high” and would “slug travellers’ hip pockets

Concerns raised for Mansfield’s tourism industry ’ y

Homestay in the Mansfield Shire.

Ms Gould said a lot of shortstay properties in Mansfield were not suitable for many longterm renters.

“A lot of Airbnbs in Mansfield, Goughs Bay and Bonnie Doon are high-end properties,” she said.

“The reforms in the housing statement could maybe make a slight difference, but overall, it’s not going to have desired impact.”

The government’s ambitious plan also includes sweeping reforms to wrest planning approvals from local governments, in an effort “clear backlogs and cut down application times.”

when they can least afford it.”

“The levy will apply only to short-term rental accommodation, creating an uneven playing field that puts everyday Victorians who share their home behind large corporate hotel chains,” the statement said.

But, Tenants Victoria’s Community Engagement Director, Farah Farouque, welcomed the reform as a “step in the right direction.”

“The rental housing crisis simply won’t disappear overnight, but the combination of these new measures will help address the pain points renters tell us they are facing,” she said.

“Airbnb have been a feature of the tourism landscape since 2012, but Australia has been really hesitant about imposing restrictions on short-stay accommodations providers.”

Ms Farouque said the Australian-first levy was ‘fairly modest” compared to other countries.

Half the state’s 36,000 short-

stay accommodation is in regional Victoria.

Ms Farouque hoped the new levy would help “flip Airbnb’s and short-stay accommodations into long-term rentals.”

“Short- stay accommodations have wreaked havoc on the long-term accommodation market, especially in regional Victoria, and in some cases really changed the character of some neighbourhoods,” she said

“A levy isn’t going to completely solve the housing crisis, but it’s a good first step.”

But District Property Group Director Jenny Gould was dubious about the levy’s effects on the housing crisis.

“I think people travelling are just going to factor this into their holiday costs,” she said.

“The State Government is in so much debt; it all seems like a political stunt.”

There are approximately

457 short-term rentals across Airbnb, Booking.com and

According to the housing statement, a backlog of 1,400 housing permit applications have been stuck with local councils for more than six months.

The government said it will have a dedicated team who will “work with project proponents, local councils, and referral agencies to resolve issues delaying council decision-making.”

T Municipal Association of Victoria said councils were not consulted on the changes.

“Councils want to ensure communities are not completely locked out of the planning process with no third party appeal rights in respect of these applications,” MAV Deputy President Cr Joseph Haweil said in a statement.

“One thing Operation Sandon made very clear is that we need clearer guidelines for decisions and more transparency.”

Mansfield Shire Council did not respond to the Courier’s request for comment.

SUNDAY SESSION

Talented trio Blu Guru are headed back to the Delatite Hotel for a ‘one night only’ performance.

‘A twisted tale of Indian, Blues, Celtic, Swing, Jazz, Bluegrass, and adventure. Fringe Award nominee Josh Bennett (Best Music) joins the genre-hopping antics of Andrew Clermont and the extraordinary vocals and dance of Parvyn (daughter of the renowned singer Dya Singh) to form BluGuru.

All bets are off when it comes to what will happen at each show, with the genre and instrumentation changing from one song to the next, but you can expect soaring vocal harmonies, blistering guitar and fiddle, and then ‘instrument guest appearances’ by such as sitar, tabla, mandolin, banjo, didgeridoo, and of course, Parvyn’s shaker.’

Sun 8th Oct

PAY FOR SHORT-STAY: Funds raised from the new levy will be used for social and affordable housing construction in Victoria.

PHOTO: Tierra Mallorca

7 DAY WEATHER FORECAST

‘Pair-fecting’ the art of art sock making sock

By EMMA OLIVER

THE first pair of socks that Marlene Answer-Lewis ever made took her five months to knit.

“And they still had holes in the heel,” Marlene says ruefully.

Sunday: Mostly sunny

Temperature: 13-27

Monday: Sunny

Temperature: 10-23

Tuesday: Possible showers

MANSFIELD RAINFALL

Week to 9am Monday - 0.8mm

Month Total (September 2023) -27.5mm

Month Total (September 2022) - 87mm

YTD Total - 467.3mm

Total (2022) - 977.20mm

Total (2021) - 789.9mm

Total (2020) - 746.6mm

LAKE EILDON LEVELS

She admits that learning to use the vintage Cymbal Sock Knitting Machine was less than enjoyable, with Marlene coming very close to throwing the machine out the window many times.

“It’s very lucky that I’m a bit stubborn,” she says of her incredible feat in perseverance.

Marlene spent a lot of time trawling the internet looking for assistance, and it was on YouTube that she finally discovered a lady, Jamie Mayfield, who made mistakes on purpose.

“And that’s the only way I learnt, watching her fix all the problems in a series of tutorials,” says Marlene, who can sometimes be found spinning her magic at Made in Mansfield near the High Street roundabout.

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TEAM

“It gave me enough of an understanding to make some adjustments to my machinetweak the tension - and then reattempt the socks.”

In the early stages of Marlene’s sock making journey it was slow going.

“My husband would come home at the end of each day, and he’d enquire as to how many socks I’d made,” she laughs.

“And my answer would be three.

“I’ve made three socks.”

Now, however, Marlene likens the experience to learning to drive a car.

“At first, you’re on the road

MARLENE ANSWER-LEWIS ON KEEPING FEET WARM AND FASHIONABLE IN THE NORTH EAST

and all these things are going on and you’re trying to maintain concentration while attempting multiple tasks.

“And then it becomes second nature, which is what has happened with the sock machine.

“All the latches are opening and closing, and the heal spring is going, and you are constantly monitoring the process in case

something goes wrong - it can be a bit chaotic at first.”

It now takes Marlene 45 minutes to make two socks - a pair.

Socks to fit a size seven foot demand 80 rows in the leg and 60 rows in the foot, with Marlene relying on an old counter to monitor the stitches.

She professes to not like maths. But decades of quilting

and her recent commitment to negotiating her way around the sock machine might suggest otherwise.

“I’ve been a quilter for 40 years,” she says of the world of fat quarters and eighths. And it was about 20 years ago that Marlene invested in a fully computerised, long-arm quilting machine.

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

Temperature: 6-12 Member

Edward Higgins (DIRECTOR) Terry Friel (SENIOR JOURNALIST)

Leah Scott (ADVERTISING MANAGER/ BRANCH MANAGER)

Hannah Kennelly (JOURNALIST)

ON SHOW: Marlene Answer-Lewis sitting at her Cymbal Sock Knitting Machine at Made in Mansfield.

CIRCULAR KNIT: Using wool predominantly sourced locally, Answer-Lewis knits in cream before dyeing the socks at home. Every pair is unique and individually tailored.

Under her business name

Redgate Quilting, she quilts-toorder people’s individual patchwork masterpieces.

Business is either very busy or very quiet,” she says.

“When COVID hit in that first year, busy then became an understatement.

“I was absolutely flat out quilting everybody’s lockdown projects, and then the silly masks came along and I made about 800 over a three week block.”

Marlene put everything else on hold, and concentrated on keeping the North East COVIDsafe by “stopping the spread.”

“I would get up at 4am in the morning and I’d still be sitting at my machine when my husband came home from work.

“He was then delegated packing duty,” she adds with a laugh.

“I had two shops selling the masks, and I’d hand over their quota and get back to work.

“It was this hectic crazy production line that I had never anticipated, and at the end of it all I bought a new thermomix and a washing machine.

“And I didn’t feel guilty!”

However the second year of COVID delivered the polar oppo-

site - projects were shelved and lockdown fatigue had taken the charm out of craft.

There were no quilts and the demand for masks had long been assuaged.

Marlene found herself at a bit of a loose end.

The sock making began on the suggestion of a friend.

“My friend had visions of opening a handmade sock shop, and had asked another friend who was visiting the United Kingdom to find her a sock machine,” Marlene says.

“She found two.”

And so, caught up in the enthusiasm of the find and driven by a strong desire to escape the daily housework grind Marlene leapt at the opportunity.

She then paid an exorbitant amount of money to have the cast iron machine and its cast iron table freighted half way across the world.

“I had just got to the point in my life where I had decided I didn’t need to learn another craft,” she says.

“And then suddenly, I was adamant I was going to make socks – caught in a moment of weakness when I was locked up.”

The Cymbal Sock Knitting

Machine eventually arrived safe and sound in Marlene’s home town of Alexandra, and so began the long drawn-out process of battling a machine with a century’s worth of idiosyncrasies.

Made in Germany for the British market, the machine was made for the stay-at-home mum to make socks for her family, with the significant investment usually bought via hire purchase.

A hemisphere away and 100 years later, Marlene now makes socks for local markets like the Yea Railway Market and the Tallarook Farmers Market, whilst stocking retail venues like Made in Mansfield.

“I also go to the Pearcedale market as both my girls live down there, and more recently I have started selling at the annual Lost Trades Fair,” Marlene adds.

Selling an impressive 120 pairs of socks over the two-day fair, Marlene takes her sock machine with her every time she works a market.

“Lots of people find it fascinating and will stop for a chat, and invariably there will be some old bloke who

will accuse me of cheating.

“I then discuss the use of power tools in carpentry and we reach a place of mutual understanding,” she recounted with a chuckle.

Marlene is warm and engaging with an excellent laugh that underscores most of her anecdotes.

She tells a good story, and evidently knits a great sock.

When working at Made in Mansfield - a requirement for all who stock the shop - she brings in her sock machine and perches in the window.

The idea initially horrified her, but now she loves watching the world go by and having a banter with interested customers drawn into the shop to watch her ply her trade.

Using predominantly Australian wool sourced from mills in Wangaratta, Bendigo and Nundle in New South Wales, Marlene opts for cream wool which she then dyes at home.

It’s an art she has perfected, opting for two different techniques to deliver the desired results.

Whether it’s in the crockpot or hand painted and then microwaved and left to cure overnight in an esky, the colours Marlene achieves are vivid and striking.

“I also make to order if you’re looking for a particular colour in a specific size,” she says.

Marlene makes a range of self-striping socks using multicoloured yarn from the Bendigo Woolen Mill, as well as a range using commercial yarn imported from Turkey and the Czech Republic.

“And I also try my hand at fingerless gloves and head bands,” she says.

And should she have a spare moment, Marlene is quite fond of making hand-crocheted hats, with wool that she hand spins.

For a lady who was not looking for another craft, she certainly has embraced the challenge.

“And one of the upsides, is that I always have a present,” she says with a laugh.

“People love a pair of socks.”

GOOD FIT: Hard-wearing and durable, the unique socks can be made to order in the colour of your choice.

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 available space.

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CROSSWORD PUZZLE

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Bombarding kids with TV violence

CHANNEL 7 news is irresponsible for the regular showing of extreme violence – schoolyard attacks, gang violence, road rage, etc.

Each film clip is shown multiple times – sometimes with a warning – “some viewers may find this distressing” – but still shown anyway.

At other times, these film clips are shown as pre-news advertising, as if this was a highlight of the news service.

The showing of these types of film clips is mostly unnecessary.

Why are they shown at all?

Who are they hoping to attract to their news services?

This type of editorial decision-making was on display during the reporting of the fatal car crash and arrest of a man in Bourke Street on Friday, September 8.

The film of the man being arrested was appropriate to the news story.

The reporter on site was able to effectively convey the key aspects of the story and the sadness of the tragedy that had occurred.

Seven news then decided to repeatedly display film of the car careening along Bourke Street killing five people in January, 2017 and the murder of Sisto Malaspina in November, 2018.

There was no need to show these films during the current report, let alone repeat them several times!

Was there any connection between these past stories

and the current news item apart from the Bourke Street connection?

It is important that all people are kept aware of all events occurring both locally and internationally.

But it is totally unnecessary to accompany news reports with repeated showings of violent film clips.

This is especially unnecessary in the 6 o’clock news! Family viewing time!

Most families enjoy time together watching the news. Many schools encourage their students to watch the news to keep abreast of current affairs.

Is it appropriate for children to be exposed to films of school children attacking other children with fists, feet and machetes?

Could this have a desensitizing effect on younger members of society so that they begin to see this type of behavior as “normal”?

Who bears the responsibility for making the decisions to show these images?

Jen Geddes-Davies, Noel Davies. Maindample

We already have enough Voice(S)

What are we voting for?

Are we voting for “closing the gap,” recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in the Constitution or a Voice to Parliament that is a pathway to a Treaty and Truth telling?

There are currently many ATSI voices to the Minister for Indigenous Australians and executive government that

Way

THE number of planning applications going to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal locally has been surprisingly low compared to other municipalities throughout the state, according to a Mansfield Shire Council review tabled last week.

In sport, Collingwood premiership player and Elite Sports Properties owner Craig Kelly, will coach the Mansfield Eagles senior side over the next 12 months.

In other news, Mike Morrison will step down as Mansfield Football Club President after three years at the helm.

speak for the disadvantaged and marginalized.

For example, the National Indigenous Australian Agency provides advice to the Prime Minister and Minister for Indigenous Australians on implementation of “closing the gap” measures in consultation with indigenous Australians. It has 1,300 employees across Australia.

There is a national agreement (2020) that all governments and Coalition of Peaks work together to close the gap.

The Coalition of Peaks consists of 80 organizations which are charged with delivering services that have been prioritized by ATSI people.

Given this, do we need another level of bureaucracy enshrined in the Constitution?

NO campaign leader Jacinta Nampijinpa Price says these organizations, along with the Minister for Indigenous Australians, should be held to account for their financial and services delivery performance in closing the gap.

Noel Pearson and others have been saying for many years that the Voice is the pathway to a Treaty with repatriations and Truth Telling.

This creates separatism and victim-blaming for a past that no current living person had anything to do with.

I want a positive future for the disadvantaged Aboriginals and Torres Strait Islanders and marginalized – with practical outcomes and less bureaucracy.

This is one of many reasons why I am voting NO.

Pamela Dalgliesh Howes Creek Road

Act now to build a dementia-friendly future for us all

DURING this year’s Dementia Action Week (September 1824) we encouraged people to learn more about the signs and symptoms of the condition and how to make their communities more accessible to people living with dementia.

There are estimated to be more than 400,000 Australians living with dementia and more than 1.5 million involved in their care - and those numbers are set to rise.

As dementia diagnoses increase, it’s important to learn more about the signs and symptoms and how to make our communities more accessible to people living with dementia.

That’s why this year’s theme for Dementia Action Week was “Act Now for a DementiaFriendly Future.”

Many people can continue to live well with dementia, but it’s important they feel supported in their community.

Greater awareness helps to create discussion and break down stigma or barriers that could stop people from seeking help.

Increasing our understanding of dementia can make a big difference to the lives of people around us who are impacted.

There are things we can all do to make our communities more dementia-friendly. To find out how you can make a difference, please visit dementia.org.au.

Maree McCabe CEO Dementia Australia

HERE COMES THE BRIDE:

Following a fairytale courtship, well-known Barwite resident and school teacher Sue Binzer married her prince charming, Martin Jones on Saturday.

ALL SET: Mansfield Football Club stalwarts

Peter Morgan, Denis Sheahan, Simon Dolling, Tom Cooksey, Coach Craig Kelly, Stephen Marks, Ross Gray and Fraser Stevenson.

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

Club wins, too, as young Mansfield swimmer awarded

By SAMUEL O’BRIEN UP-AND-COMING swim-

mer AMELIE Walker is one of the 10 recipients of the Cadbury Volunteer Values Award for her work and dedication to the Mansfield Swimming Club.

The award recognises volunteers who best embody 10 sporting values: courage, inspiration, leadership, “legend,” mateship, respect, sportsmanship, purpose, team spirit and “cheer-anda-half.”

Amelie is a senior swimmer at the club, recently stepping up to complete the first of her coaching qualifications, helping out with the junior squads.

“I started swim club when I was about 10 because my older sister was part of the club - so I joined too,” she said.

“It’s been a really great way to meet new people and get involved in the sport.”

Amelie, who is now in Year 12, saw an opportunity to step up and took it.

“One of our coaches was

The French connection: Mansfield Steiner students expand their horizons

By SAMUEL O’BRIEN

MANSFIELD Steiner School’s French exchange program has seen local students deepen their understanding of the language and culture while sharing their own.

In late term two, students travelled to Bordeaux, France, for four weeks and returned with their host brothers and sisters to Mansfield for another four weeks.

Reef Bruce recounted the events, noticing how his language and culture were influenced.

“My counterpart Lilian was particularly struck by just how different life is here in the High Country as opposed to the rolling landscapes of French wine country,” he said.

“It was a considerable shock for both of us to go from beautiful temperatures in the high 20s and cloudless skies to a rainy, cold, and rugged Australian winter.

“He remarked on just how sparse everything is here, attending a school with only 140 students as opposed to his school with a bit over 3,000.

“Lilian had the pleasure of seeing Victoria’s best - from enjoying street food in Melbourne to ex-

ploring the Grampians National Park.

“He marvelled at how we have such abundant wildlife - staying with me out in Merrijig there was no shortage of kangaroos and kookaburras!

“He found our food quite bewildering, with oddities such as our famous Vegemite making him wish he had said no to trying it, while on the other hand he enjoyed classics such as Milo and Tim Tams.”

Amelia Clydesdale enjoyed hosting the French students here in Mansfield.

“Lucile fit into my family incredibly well, and it was like living with a sister I’d known my whole life,” she said.

“I showed her all around Mansfield and our surrounding areas,

as well as what kinds of activities I fill my days with.

“Between freezing cold trips to Echuca to play netball and hikes in the rain up at Mt Timbertop, slowly she gained an insight into how us Australians live our lives.

“Hosting Lucile opened my eyes to the beauty of Australian culture and allowed me to view our country in a different light.

“Now, when I look out across the dew-speckled paddocks and rolling hills of our beautiful town, I feel as though I am looking at them with a fresh set of eyes.

“I am finally able to appreciate their elegance and beauty like I was unable to before.

“I am so thankful to have been offered so many incredible experiences and am so gratified

leaving at the end of 2022 and there was no way we could accommodate the swimmers that we had without someone else stepping into that role,” she said.

“I attended a day-long session in Wangaratta that involved theory and practical work.

“I then had to complete units online and a set amount of supervised coaching hours throughout the season to obtain my qualification.”

The junior squad has immensely enjoyed her work this year, with other staff at the club noticing the way they cheer her on in her races and then work hard under her coaching guidance.

Amelie has benefited from the experience too, saying: “I find it really rewarding to be a role model to younger swimmers.”

“I find that when you become really involved in your sport, the people you compete against become your friends and your teammates become family.”

As a part of the award,

Amelie will receive $2,500 and the club will receive $15,000.

“The money will be able to pay for my next level of coaching qualification later this year,” she said.

As for the club, Amelie said: “I think that it’s really important for us to put it towards further developing our coaches and swimmers.”

She encourages others to get involved with the Mansfield Swimming Club, which runs from November through March.

“I think that it’s really important to be involved in sport as it brings together people of all ages, ability and disability,” Amelie said.

“Community sport is also a really great way to be active.

“I know that so many clubs run ‘come and try’ sessions and I think that’s the best way to start getting involved if you’d like to play sports.

“Another great way to get involved is through volunteering at club events in any way you can.”

by the person who has emerged from them.”

Ella Crathern enjoyed reflecting on her time in France and utilising what she learnt to improve her skills in the classroom back in Mansfield.

“For two and a half weeks we spent Monday to Friday at school with our correspondents exploring and delving deeper into the past few weeks in France,” she said.

“We focused on our experiences with the French students and formed a PowerPoint to present to the whole school and created a short film about our time away.”

Mansfield Steiner School Principal Glenn Hood said cultural immersion is key for the learning goals of his students.

“Beyond the acquisition of language skills, the cultural

exchange enriched their Steiner education profoundly,” he said.

“At this pivotal stage of development, the exchange offered a unique opportunity for personal growth and global awareness.

“Immersed in a foreign culture, students gained a deeper understanding of diversity, tolerance, and empathy.

“They developed resilience and adaptability, essential life skills.

“Moreover, the exchange fostered a sense of interconnectedness with the world, aligning with Steiner’s holistic education philosophy.

“The exchange has also provided a strong foundation for the students to springboard into the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program which the school operates in years 11 and 12.”

ABOOST FOR CLUB: Amelie Walker is grateful that her work with the Mansfield Swimming Club junior squad has been recognised.

PHOTO: Samuel O’Brien

FOOD, CULTURE AND LEARNING: Host family Axel and Henry Perez (left) showed Ella Crathern (right) around France, experiencing the food and culture native to Bordeaux.

AUSTRALIA UP CLOSE: French exchange student Lolita Varey was able experience Australia’s native flora and fauna while in Mansfield.

Wildlife rescues jump as temps rise

WILDLIFE Victoria is seeing an explosion in calls from the public for wildlife in distress.

Spring is historically the rescue group’s busiest period of the year with several species in the height of their breeding season.

This year, the rush started early with a record number of calls in August compared to any other year in Wildlife Victoria history.

This coincides with high August temperatures recorded across the state and the Bureau of Meteorology reporting that mean minimum temperatures were “above to very much above” average for most of the state’s south and east.

In the first two weeks of September, Wildlife Victoria’s Emergency Response Service re-

ceived 5,413 calls public, a 34 per cent increase on the same period last year.

This is placing significant pressure on its staff and volunteers, as well as clinics across the state.

The surge in calls is mostly being driven by an increased number of orphaned native animals, often a result of their mother being injured or killed.

Since August, Wildlife Victoria recorded 766 orphaned animals, all of which require care until they are old enough to be released.

“Our Emergency Response Operators are responding to a record number of calls, volunteers to the overwhelming number of animals that need to be rescued, transported or placed into care, and vet clinics are being inundat-

ed with wildlife that they simply do not have the capacity for,” said Wildlife Victoria CEO Lisa Palma.

Vets are required by state law to treat injured wildlife for free.

“Providing pro bono veterinary services is not sustainable, so we are calling for state governments to commit funding to develop and implement a framework that provides regulatory and financial support to the provision of veterinary services for injured wildlife – by all sectors of the profession, including charities and the private veterinary clinics,” said Australian Veterinary Association CEO Dr David Andrews.

Wildlife Victoria is calling on the public to be the eyes, ears and heart of the organisation.

If you see an animal that needs help, please call (03) 8400 7300.

Your Council - Your News mansfield

Council Meetings

The upcoming scheduled Council meeting is Tuesday 17 October 2023 at 5pm and will be held online.

Go to the events section on our website for information about how to observe the meeting or contact Customer Service on 5775 8555.

Office Closure

Our offices will be closed on due to the AFL Grand Final public holiday, but some services will continue uninterrupted, including the Friday waste collection.

The Visitor Information Centre will be open from 10.00am - 4.00pm.

The Mansfield Resource Recovery Centre in Monkey Gully Road will be open from 9.00am – 2.00pm.

Work with Us

Full advertisements and position descriptions are available on our website.

Management Accountant

Public Notices

Public Notices for the following can be found under 'Public Notices' in the Classified section of the Courier.

Notice of Community Asset Committee Agreement with the Mansfield Tennis Association

Lincoln James Medcraft

Lincoln was born at Northeast Health Wangaratta on Monday, September 4 at 9:20am and weighed 3.5kg (7lb 11oz). He is the son of Nadine Medcraft and Jordan Medcraft of Mansfield.

IMPACT Route Works Commence

Last week Councillors and Council Officers met Federal MP for Indi, Dr Helen Haines as works began on upgrades Chapel Hill Road. The IMPACT Route also includes upgrades to Highton Lane and Rifle Butts Road. This exciting project, to be finished by the end of next year, will ensure a safer transportation route to serve the agricultural industry and improve year-round access for locals and tourists.

Additional Meeting of Council

PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that an additional meeting of the Mansfield Shire Council will be held on Tuesday 3 October 2023 at 3.00pm in the Council Chamber at 33 Highett Street, Mansfield.

Expressions of Interest

The Mansfield Shire Council hereby announces its intention to lease a property through an Expression of Interest process, in accordance with section 115 of the Local Government Act 2020 and in alignment with the Council's Community Engagement Policy.

The Mansfield Police Stables, situated at 5 Curia Street, Mansfield, is the subject of this lease opportunity.

For more information on this opportunity visit https://www.mansfield.vic.gov.au/Home

Boat Ramp Upgrades Complete

HVAR Stage 2 Update

As part of Stage 2 of the Heavy Vehicle Alternative Route (HVAR), Council are pleased to advise that works on Greenvale Lane are very close to being finished, minor works such as line marking and installation of signage will bring this to completion. Works on Mt Battery Road are currently underway, with drainage complete and pavement near completion. Upcoming works will include pavement, roadside kerb, pedestrian footpath and crossing points construction before final road sealing.

Dead Horse Lane works are planned to commence midOctober. Works will take place on Dead Horse Lane between Midland Highway and Mansfield-Whitfield Road. Works include modifications of intersections, road widening, improvement of the road surface and roadside drainage to deal with the projected increase in heavy vehicle traffic.

Council recently completed its boat ramp refurbishment project. The Maintongoon Road Reserve Boat Ramp, Reardon’s Reserve Boat Ramp, and the Jamieson Reserve Boat Ramp were refurbished, with works including resheeting, installing culverts, and defining drainage to improve the safety and access to the boat ramp car parks. This project was funded by Better Boating Victoria.

mansfield.vic.gov.au

Kirsten Alexander, Chief Executive Officer

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

Spring in full swing

THE recent birthday of local Paradise Point (Jamieson) resident Iris Tisdale, was celebrated at her home.

Many friends and family attended the Saturday afternoon garden party, to wish Iris a very happy day on the occasion of her 90th Birthday.

Iris is a much loved friend of the Jamieson community.

The friends in attendance enjoyed a very special gourmet afternoon tea and wonderful repartee with Iris who has a magnificent sense of humor.

We wish her a very Happy Birthday.

Congratulations.

RECENTLY, local resident Georgia Crosby was awarded her Nursing Degree, with COVID 19 interruptions much of the study was on line, creating a little more pressure.

Georgia came through successfully and is enjoying her ‘Grad Year’ working at Mansfield’s Buckland House.

Georgia also spent many hours working at Mansfield Hospital, prior to joining the Buckland House team.

Georgia loves the environment and the residents at Buckland House, the feeling is reciprocated. We wish her well in her nursing career.

Congratulations.

NEXT Tuesday, October 3, the Jamieson Community Group AGM will be held in the Jamieson Memorial Hall.

The nominations for the vacant positions and voting will be conducted at 7pm.

The general meeting will be conducted by the new committee following the elections.

There is an opportunity for new members and community group members to hold office.

It is a very productive and inclusive community group with some very exciting projects in hand.

New member are welcome.

THE Jamieson community group is overseeing the Jamieson River Hub project, attending to the access points into the river, for swimmers, creating safe accessible entry and exit points.

The whole project will enhance the river walk and river enjoyment.

The idea of one man Police Stations being changed and the imagined upheaval in small communities where distance is of concern, will be addressed.

The new Emergency Resources Hub in Jamieson at the Police Paddock, is approaching the final boxes to be ticked.

The team George Crawford Jamieson Police officer, Janine Ridley, Chris Badrock Community President and Peter Horan with a Mansfield Shire engineer, have achieved a very exciting stage of the project, with the eminent signing of the

paper work with the architects. There are a number of Community Grants being addressed, with funds being made available to successful applicants through the Community Group.

THE local and visiting tennis players are looking forward to some warm dry weather to get back on the Jamieson tennis court.

The tennis court is a very popular social area, where many tennis battles are won.

The tennis club is open for all players to access, as the court is locked the players are advised to book at the Jamieson caravan Park on (03) 5777 0567 and collect the key. The club house has been refurbished and the patrons are able to enjoy the facility, all welcome.

ON Sunday the Jamieson CFA conducted the mandatory yearly Extreme Burn Over Training, that all registered fire fighters must complete, prior to active firefighting.

Fire Officer Gerry Moloney trained the members.

The training is extreme with new facilities within the tankers, to prevent the event of injury during a burn over.

The vehicles are regularly maintained and the crews are trained and familiarized with any changes.

We are grateful for the constant diligence our local volunteer fire fighters are trained for and are prepared to carry out.

FAMILY CELEBRATIONS: Local resident Georgia Crosby celebrated achieving her Nursing Degree recently, with Grandmother Wendy Blackledge, Gran father (Pa) Alan Blackledge and mum Jane Crosby.

It’s all happening in North East

Violet Town stars in tidy town comp

VIOLET Town has been announced as a finalist in six categories of the Keep Australia Beautiful Victoria (KABV) 2023 Tidy Towns and Cities Sustainability Awards. And with six now named as finalists (there are only three finalists in each category) the chances of taking out one or more awards is highly likely – as well as the overall Tidy Town award.

Projects that tackle litter and waste reduction, energy efficiency, wellbeing, positive Indigenous outcomes, and community engagement have put them into the running for the prestigious Victorian Tidy Town or City of the Year award.

“A huge congratulations to Violet Town who has been announced as a finalist in six of the Victorian Tidy Towns Sustainability Awards categories”, was the message last week from Mayor Laura Binks.

“It is an incredible achievement for Violet Town to be recognised among some other heavyhitting township.

“I would like to wish Violet Town all the very best as they progress to the next stage in October when the overall winner of the Victorian Tidy Towns Sustainability Awards is announced.

“It would be fantastic to see another township in Strathbogie Shire take out the Victorian award this year – I wish Violet Town all the very best for the awards

night in October.”

A fair rise in funding for Pride Fair Day

THE success of LINE’s inaugural Pride Fair Day has been recognised with just under $11,000 of State Government funding for a “bigger and better” event next year.

Announced last week, the event has received $5,000 more funding from the State Government than last year, which had LINE (LGBTQIA+ In the North East) executive officer Allison Winters buzzing with excitement.

“It means we can have a bigger space, more musicians, performers and entertainers and hopefully

have it longer, we’re hoping to take it into the night as well,” she said.

“We had a really successful event this year and we’re hoping to make it bigger and better for next year’s event and we’re super thankful we’ll be able to have some support from the Victorian Government to make that happen.”

Held in March this year at the King George V Gardens, LINE’s Pride Fair Day attracted around 500 visitors from across the region to witness a pride-themed festival of entertainment, supported by over 30 local stallholders.

Keeping it clean

LOCAL cyclist Marthijs Heupermann wants to keep his town tidy, and has

succeeded in doing so for the last four years by cleaning up a 15 kilometre stretch of Tawonga Gap Road, on the main road between Bright and Mt Beauty.

This year Marthijs and another volunteer, Christophe Baudry, collected 15 bags of rubbish. The 25kg malt bags were donated by the Bright Brewery.

“The initial motivation for the clean-up was around just keeping our backyard looking tidy,” he said.

“We live in a beautiful part of Victoria and there’s an ever increasing amount of rubbish along the roads.

“This road is a major road for people who are keen cyclists, like myself, who ride up from Bright to Tawonga every Friday morning and when you ride

it regularly you notice how much rubbish is there.

“This year we picked up the tailgate of a trailer, lots of star pickets, hub caps, sunglasses, nappies and lots of wet wipes which just hang around.

“We ended up getting the entire 15km done in about four hours which was great.

The clean-up is held every year, around September 12, and more volunteers are always welcome.

Hotham closes early as warm days arrive

MOUNT Hotham Resort has closed early this year, with resort management saying warm, windy conditions spelled the end

of the snow season for the resort.

“The safety of our staff and guests is always our greatest concern and despite our best optimism there’s no choice for us but to farewell the season early,” Hotham vice president and general manager Tina Burford said in a video released.

“While mother nature wasn’t always on our side, this year our amazing mountain ops team worked their magic, making and farming snow to keep us going and we are deeply grateful to all of them for their efforts.

“I would like to extend my gratitude to our staff and guests for their adaptability during a challenging season weather-wise.”

SMILES ALL ROUND: Mieke Bosland, Sarah Belle, Allison Winters, Harriet Shing, Alice Meravi, Elena Sewell-Dolphin and Kirsty Barnes at this year’s Pride Fair Day in March, which received a boost in State Government funding for next year’s edition.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Birdscaping your garden

SPRING is a good time to consider planting native plants in your garden.

The relationship between our flora and fauna is remarkable.

Nectar for Honeyeaters and Lorikeets produced by native plants thoughout the year allows you to have an interesting array of birds visiting your garden year round.

Native plants produce seed for Cockatoos and Parrots, prickly foliaged plants provide shelter and habitat for smaller birds.

Native plants also attract a wide range of insects which to provide food for our native species.

Adding a birdbath and or a bowl to the garden allows for birds to bathe and drink. Be mindful to create different depths to cater for large and small birds.

Position strategically to benefit watching their behavioural patterns.

It’s easy to choose plants for year round flowering using different Genus and Species to allow birds to migrate seasonally to your garden and for others to take up Residence.

Plants to Consider

With Plant breeding ongoing we are lucky to have a huge range of superior forms of native plants, many new dwarf plants are suited for smaller gardens.

Correas are autumn and winter flowering highly prized by Honeyeaters and Spinebills with beautiful bell shaped flowers over long periods.

Grevilleas are ground covers to large shrubs are long flowering loaded with nectar and flower in every colour imaginable.

Banksias range from groundcovers to large shrubs, attractive cone shaped flowers throughout the year attracting honeyeaters and provide seed for the seed eaters.

There is a great range

of dwarf species suited for planting in pots or in the garden.

Casuarinas, Acacias and Hakeas all provide seed for Cockatoos and Parrots many with interesting foliage to add texture and contrast in the garden.

My favourite are the Eremophilas they are tough drought resistant shrubs which flower throughout the year with tubular flowers in a range of colours.

There are many small growing Eucalypts perfect for small gardens providing food and nesting sites.

Native grasses provide seed for Finches and Parrots.

Poa Austrostipa and Themeda have attractive seed heads adding interest to the garden.

So why not consider planting a few Australian plants they will enhance your garden and bring some amazing birds to your garden.

Mansfield

Mansfield Power Ag is training the next generation

By SAMUEL O’BRIEN

MANSFIELD Power Ag has been expanding and, with that, comes new staff.

A recent recruit is diesel mechanic apprentice Reece Johnson, who joined the team in January to broaden his horizons and develop new skills.

He moved up from Melbourne after working for two years mostly on John Deere tractors.

Owner of Mansfield Power Ag Mark Cronin said that he helped transfer Reece’s apprenticeship so that there was no delay in finishing it.

“We were able to give him the opportunity to mainly work on diesel and finish his apprenticeship,” Mark said.

Reece is no stranger to the region, having family who own property up in Tolmie.

“My grandparents have had property for more than 40 years,” he said.

“I came up here on weekends a fair bit.”

Reece said he has loved

his time in the High Country and hopes to entice his friends to come up and settle in the area.

“I’ve got a mate who’s already looking at buying up here,” he said.

“It told him to get straight into Ag with us.”

The locals have made a huge difference.

“Everyone is a lot friendlier and got a smile on their faces,” Reece said.

“I get to go out on farms and meet people.

“It’s good to have a chat with them and make them smile.”

He has learnt a lot too, looking after a wide variety of tractors and machinery.

“In the last nine months I’ve been here, I’ve probably more than I did in two years,” Reece said.

Mark explained his maintenance team takes on all brands regardless of what they sell in store - a feature of the business.

“We located to our current position just over two years ago and we’ve seen a big increase

in business just with the relocation,” he said.

“That’s given us the ability to concentrate more on diesel but also across all the different areas of the business.”

Mark is a firm believer in quality over quantity when it comes to expansion and is making sure everyone is able to fit in seamlessly.

“We definitely need more staff but we need the right staff too,” he said.

“It’s as much about fitting in the Mansfield Power Ag family as it is about just getting a job.

“I’m more than happy to talk to anybody, including young kids, who are thinking about doing a either an apprenticeship or a school based apprenticeship in both diesel and small engine maintenance.”

Reece is happy he made the change is looking forward to developing his skills further with Mansfield Power Ag.

“I’m not going anywhere,” he said.

ALL SMILES: Reece Johnson enjoys his time at Mansfield Power Ag. PHOTO: Samuel O’Brien

How healthy is your home loan?

With interest rates on the rise, there’s never been a better time to review your home loan.

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Whether you’re an existing customer or you’re new to Bendigo Bank, we’re here to help you get the most out of your home loan.

So don’t delay!

Enquire online at bendigobank.com.au/healthcheck or visit your nearest branch.

NESTLED in the rolling hills, just a extraordinary chance to own an expansive expanse of rural land. Spanning a colossal 551 acres (221 hectares) across two titles, this property is perfectly situated between

One of the standout features of this property is the breathtaking 360-degree views it offers. From this vantage point, High Country. Moreover, this property boasts multiple potential house sites, each stunning natural panorama.

It’s worth noting that this sprawling property is divided into two titles, expanding your options for land use or future sale. Title 1 encompasses a vast 316.5 acres, while title 2 offers a substantial 234.5 acres.

A historic three-bedroom homestead character and potential for restoration or renovation.

A four-bay shed/workshop stands ready to accommodate vehicles and storage with a substantial hay shed.

For livestock management, this property boasts well-maintained cattle yards and a carrying capacity of approximately 150

3

Location 1065 Monkey Gully Road, Goughs Bay

Price $3.2m

Agent McGrath Mansfield Phone 03 5775 2437

Please have a browse through the latest edition of ‘The District’ online by scanning the QR code, or drop past our office at 30D High Street and pick up a printed copy. It’s just one of the ways we work to get the best possible results for our customers, and one of the reasons we sell so many properties! Williams Hunt & Bett LAWYERS & CONVEYANCERS Property Sales & Purchases Business Transactions Conveyancing Services Criminal Matters Disputes & Litigation Divorce & Family Law Liquor Licensing Wills, Powers of Attorney & Probate BUYING OR SELLING? Whether you are buying land, your first home, selling or buying your next one … Let us guide you through the process with confidence for all your legal requirements. Alexandra Office (03) 5772 1493 81A Grant Street Alexandra VIC 3714 PO Box 116, Alexandra VIC 3714 alexlawyers@williamshuntbett.com.au Mansfield Office (03) 5775 2334 24A Highett Street Mansfield VIC 3722 PO Box 423 Mansfield VIC 3722 lawyers@williamshuntbett.com.au Yea Office (03) 5797 2601 82 High Street Yea VIC 3717 PO Box 7 Yea VIC 3717 yealawyers@williamshuntbett.com.au MANSFIELD COURIER - Wednesday, September 27, 2023 - Page 17 mansfieldcourier.com.au

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Keeping Varroa mite out of our farms

FOLLOWING a National Management Group meeting involving industry and government bodies on September 19, Agriculture Victoria will transition its emergency response to a transition to management phase for Varroa mite.

Victoria’s Chief Plant Health Officer Dr Rosa Crnov said the NSW Varroa mite outbreak is no longer technically feasible to eradicate despite sustained efforts by government and industry.

“Victoria remains free of Varroa mite, and under the Transition to Management program the focus will be on slowing the spread of Varroa and ensuring our industries are prepared and supported for its arrival,” she said.

“The Transition to Management model will support business continuity minimising the impact of varroa on our beekeepers and pollination-dependent industries.

Varroa mite is a parasite of adult honey bees and honey bee brood.

“Surveillance of varroa and keeping track of the movement of bees and beekeeping equipment via our permit system will continue to help us

maintain a Varroa-free status in Victoria while we work with industry to adapt to the new model.”

Beekeepers must continue to record any bee movements, regularly test bees for varroa and follow the requirements of the Control Area Order and any permits they are under.

Victoria has a rigorous

permit system in place to help keep the state free from Varroa mite.

A permit is required for anyone bringing bees, hives, queen bees, used beekeeping equipment, pollen for bee feeding, and bee products, including honeycomb, into any part of Victoria from any other state or territory.

“It’s crucial for beekeepers to follow the mandatory permit system for entry of bees, hives and apiary movements into Victoria,” Dr Crnov said.

“This system helps protect our state, while enabling essential horticultural pollination activities to continue.

“Application for queen

bees from all states except New South Wales will be assessed.

“Permits will not be granted for queens, escorts and queen cells from NSW at this time.”

The pause on processing permit applications from NSW will remain in place for an interim period while applications for permits

for movements from all other jurisdictions into Victoria will continue to be processed.

Agriculture Victoria will work on developing the national Transition to Management Plan as part of the Consultative Committee on Emergency Plant Pests process.

The Plan’s focus is slowing the spread of Varroa mite, supporting pollination, building industry resilience and providing management solutions.

Since Varroa mite was found 15 months ago, Agriculture Victoria’s world class biosecurity capability has been able to support two successful pollination seasons without the pest entering the state.

It weakens and kills honey bee colonies and can also transmit honey bee viruses but does not affect native bees.

For more information on Varroa requirements, reporting and permit applications, visit the Varroa page on the Agriculture Victoria website: agriculture.vic. gov.au/varroa. Any suspect Varroa should be reported to the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881.

BOM calls El Niño event: What does this mean for Victorian agriculture?

The Bureau of Meteorology has moved from an El Niño “watch” to calling an El Niño “event”, so what does that mean for Victorian agriculture?

“While the words ‘El Niño event’ certainly catch attention, it’s very important not to get swept up in that,” said Michael Tausz, who heads up the Victoria Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub (Vic Hub) at Dookie.

“First and foremost, step back from any hype: the focus for all farmers needs to remain on preparedness.

“The words ‘El Niño’ can be loaded for many, with memories of drought and all the pain and difficulties that brings.

“When El Niño is declared, it is not unusual to read some sensationalist headlines or comments about drought, but this wording is unhelpful to farmers and regional communities.

“What is helpful is remembering that El Niño does not automatically mean drought, it means there is a likelihood of hotter and drier conditions.

“And what this tells us is to be prepared.”

Professor Tausz said the Vic Hub, which is support-

ed by the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund, was focused on helping farmers and regional communities be better prepared – and then resilient during – drought.

Te’o Lau Dr Viliamu Iese, the Vic Hub’s Associate Director of Drought Resilience, said, “It can be dangerous when a blanket comment is made such as ‘rainfall will decrease in Australia because of El Niño’; if you look at historical records for Australia, rainfall has reduced in some areas during El Niño, but not in others.

“Australia is a large continent, so we need to ask: ‘what does this mean for Victoria?’

“Historical records have shown a decrease, or below average rainfall, across Victoria during El Niño events, but intensity could vary across the state.

“It is crucial to have timely access to the best-available information to be well prepared during this El Niño event.

“We must remember that a drought is a creeping hazard.

“By the time we say we are in drought, the impacts have been already experienced by farmers and communities.

“It is also important to interpret the El Niño declaration together with other climate drivers, such as the Indian Ocean Dipole [IOD) Southern Annular Mode, Madden-Julian Oscillation, and those East Coast Lows.”

Prof Tausz said, “In this vein, rather than stopping at hearing an El Niño declaration, farmers and those in regional communities must look to the BOM’s middle to long-range forecasts.

“How local climate drivers behave will shape these forecasts.

“The BOM encourages people to look to long-range forecasts in their planning, rather than focusing on a single driver, such as El Niño.”

He said the Vic Hub website included information for farmers such as the online Climate Services For Agriculture Tool “My Climate View”, among others.

“I encourage people to use these tools, and to look at the BOM’s medium and long-range forecasts in their planning and decision making.”

For more information and to access online tools, please visit the Vic Hub’s website: https://vicdroughthub.org. au

REMAINING VIGILANT: Beekeepers have been urged to continue to monitor for Varroa mite and keep up-to-date with permits, as Agriculture Victoria strengthens it surveillance in response to a detection over the border.

BE PREPARED: El Niño does not automatically mean drought, it means there is a likelihood of hotter and drier conditions.

Shear now to keep sheep safe

AGRICULTURE Victoria urges people in charge of the care and management of sheep to manage wool length, so it doesn’t become excessive and pose a health risk to the animals.

Agriculture Victoria Program Manager Livestock Welfare Compliance, Dr Sarah Chaplin said sheep with more than one year’s wool growth are highly susceptible to heat stress and disease and those with over-long fleeces are also more likely to become cast - lying on their side and unable to rise.

“A person who allows sheep in their care to grow excessively long fleeces may be exposed to cruelty provisions of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulations 2019,” she said.

“Under the regulations, a person must not allow the fleece of a sheep to grow to a length greater than twice the average annual growth for the breed of sheep or more than 250 millimetres (whichever is shorter).”

Dr Chaplin said most sheep producers undertake shearing annually and won’t have issues complying with this requirement.

“People that keep sheep as pets also need to ensure they plan ahead and arrange for their sheep to be shorn annually.”

Dr Chaplin said all people who own or manage sheep must take appropriate actions to prevent their sheep’s wool becoming over-long.

“Sheep with excessive fleece length are at increased risk of heat stress, becoming cast and serious an-

imal health issues such as flystrike.

“This regulation applies to anyone responsible for sheep, including sheep kept for commercial or hobby reasons.

“Anybody who owns or is in charge of sheep can be fined for having sheep with excessive wool growth,” she said.

“It’s also important anyone responsible for sheep consider the time of year they undertake shearing, particularly during the colder months when adverse weather conditions can have serious impacts on the welfare of sheep.

“Freshly shorn sheep should be placed into paddocks that contain proper and sufficient shelter to protect them from adverse weather conditions.”

For further information regarding sheep health and welfare visit the Agriculture Victoria website, call 136 186 or consult with Animal Health and Welfare staff at your local Agriculture Victoria office.

Anyone wishing to make a specific complaint regarding livestock welfare should contact Agriculture Victoria on 136 186 or aw.complaint@agriculture. vic.gov.au.

For more detail on what is required when making a complaint, please visit the REPORT ANIMAL CRUELTY webpage at our website.

CLICK GO THE SHEARS: Freshly shorn sheep should be placed into paddocks that contain proper and sufficient shelter to safeguard their health.

ACROSS

4 Who was the first Prime Minister of Australia, Sir Edmund ... (6)

7 What, colloquially, is something completely outdated (8)

8 To be insubstantial, is to be what (6)

9 Who favours the equal division of land (8)

11 Which person delivers the mail (7)

13 Name a major commercial city in central Victoria (7)

15 What is a violent storm (7)

17 Which term describes an elliptical path (7)

20 What is the latest time for finishing something (8)

23 Name a microscopic, one-celled animal (6)

24 Which common fish is widely distributed in Australian and NZ waters (8)

25 What are short literary compositions (6)

DOWN

1 What is the common heather called (4)

2 Who wrote Blithe Spirit in 1941, Sir Noel ... (6)

3 Denpasar is the capital of which island province of Indonesia (4)

4 Which Italian philosopher was burnt as a heretic by the Inquisition (5)

5 What is something unusual, or uncommon (6)

6 Name a seaport in southern Japan, on Honshu Island (5)

9 In physics, what term describes the fraction of incident light scattered by a surface (6)

10 What was one of the twelve disciples known as (7)

12 Which plant is armed with stinging hairs (6)

14 What is another term for a picture theatre (6)

E-QUATIONS

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

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD QUICK

16 Name a renowned US golfer, Arnold ... (6)

18 Who, in Roman legend, was the twin brother of Romulus (5)

19 Name the second President of the US, John ... (5)

21 Which curved structure rests on supports at both extremities (4)

22 What is another term for Christmas (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

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:

Choices: either/... (3)

Explorers: Burke and ... (5)

Ineffective: ...-been (3)

Letter (3)

Light soup (5)

Past tense: steal (5)

Planet’s elliptical path

SOLUTIONS SUDOKU

THINK

Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.

October

 OCTOBER 1 - 8: Seniors Festival. A variety of events presented by the Mansfield Shire Council. Head to the shire’s website for more details.

 OCTOBER 2: U3A Presents Brazil: An Inconvenient History: 10amMansfield Library (enter by back door). Morning tea followed by documentary. For membership details call Trish 0437 357 829.

 OCTOBER 4: The Produce Store Artesian Market: 4 - 6pm - The Produce Store - High St. Showcasing local artisans and artists. Hampers available for purchase.

 OCTOBER 5: Seniors Ball 2023: 5:30 - 10pm - Mansfield Golf Club. Tickets $15 per person and limited to 60 people. Includes a twocourse meal. Bookings essential on 5775 2628.

 OCTOBER 5 & 6: Death and after death care training - Rosehaven. Presented by Libby Moloney - Holistic funeral director and founder of Natural Grace. Free event.

 OCTOBER 7: High Country Halls

Music Festival: 6:30pm - Merrijig Hall. Featuring Liz Stringer and supported by Blue Curtain, Doc Wallace and Archie Dunn. On-site food truck and sausage sizzle with drinks (alcoholic and nonalcoholic) available. Tickets are $35pp for Adults. Kids under 12 FREE (must be accompanied by a ticketed adult).

 OCTOBER 14 - 28: MMuDS

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

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

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

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

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

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

 OCTOBER 28: High Country Halls Music Festival: 3:30pm - Merton Hall. Featuring John Flanagan & 7 Piece Band and supported by Naturally Kerley. On-site

NOVEMBER 7

Marks IGA

Melbourne Cup Day Picnic Races

Regular Events:

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

Enquiries: Suzy Rideout: 0466 998 811

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

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

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

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

 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.

NOVEMBER 3

Mansfield High Country Festival Opening Night

food truck and sausage sizzle with drinks (alcoholic and nonalcoholic) available. Tickets are $35pp for Adults. Youth 13-18yrs $25 pp and Kids under 12yrs FREE (limited kids tickets available).

November

 NOVEMBER 3: Breakfast on the Lawn: 7 - 9am - High Street Median opposite the Post Office. Join this community event to kick off the High Country Festival and enjoy eggs, bacon, sausages. toast, orange juice, sparkling wine, tea and coffee. $15 for adults and $8 for kids supporting Mansfield Autism.

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

 NOVEMBER 4: Martin’s Garage Grand Parade: 11am - 2pm - High

NOVEMBER 11

High Country Halls

Music Festival

Street. The signature event of the Mansfield High Country Festival. Watch a wonderful array of decorated bikes, cars, ingeniously designed floats and community groups dressing up in Festival style. Prizes presented for the best entries in each category for the theme “Take me to the movies!”

 NOVEMBER 4: AMPED UP!

Amphitheatre Sound Sessions: 12:30 - 4:30pm - High Street Median - Eastern End. Food trucks, coffee, wine & beer alongside local live musicians, drinks and more. Explore the art in the area with the sculptures, murals and interactive pieces.

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

 NOVEMBER 7: Marks IGA Melbourne Cup Day Picnic Races

 NOVEMBER 11: High Country Halls Music Festival: 5pmTolmie Hall. Featuring Tim &

The Captain and Rat Pack. Food will be available for purchase from Flaming Pizzas and Benalla Bites, while the Tolmie Community Social Club will be running a full bar. Strictly no BYO. Tickets are $35pp for Adults. Kids under 12yr FREE (must be accompanied by a ticketed adult).

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

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

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

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

 Mansfield support group for carers and people with special needs – morning coffee, third Tuesday of the month, 9.30am The Witches Brew

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

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

 Rotary meet the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month at the Delatite Hotel. 6.30 for a 7pm start.

 Rural Australians for Refugees (RAR) meet every fourth Monday of the month at 6pm in the library (rear entrance)

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

Personal journey boosts hospital auxilliary coffers

A RECENT author talk organised by Mansfield Readers and Writers (MRW) raised $500 for Mansfield Hospital Auxiliary.

Speaking at the event was Georgina Banks, author of the memoir Back to Bangka published by Penguin Random House this year.

Back to Bangka is a memoir that follows two threads.

One thread is about Georgina Banks’ great aunt Dorothy ‘Bud’ Elmes, who grew up in Cheshunt, trained as a nurse and served in World War II.

Bud Elmes was one of 21 nurses massacred in Bangka Strait, Indonesia in 1942.

The other thread in the memoir is about Georgina’s journey to uncover the truth and understand what really happened to her great aunt and the other nurses.

The loss of ‘Bud’ had been so painful to her family that nobody had talked about her death, or even talked much about her at all.

After being invited to and attending the 75th year memorial of the massacre, Georgina felt compelled to research and share what she uncovered.

She also chronicled her own experience of uncovering and confronting the truth.

The Mansfield Readers and Writers (MRW) committee

reached out to the Hospital Auxiliary and offered to make the event a fundraiser, as a way to honour the work that nurses do.

“I found the story incredibly moving,” said Miriam Zolin, President of MRW.

“Bud Elmes had such strong connections with the North East of Victoria, it made perfect sense to invite Georgina to speak about her book in Mansfield.”

The author talk was attended by over 30 people, and the ladies at St John’s baked Devonshire teas.

“We would like to thank St John’s Parish, through Rev Mel Clarke and all the wonderful team there who helped set up the hall and made us welcome,” said Miriam.

“Their generosity and warmth contributed to make this a very special event for all involved.

All funds from ticket sales have been donated to the hospital auxiliary.

Marion Mitchell, from the Mansfield Hospital Auxiliary attended the event and said she enjoyed Georgina’s talk.

“She has done a wonderful job of honouring her Great Aunt,” said Marion.

The author talk also led to Back to Bangka being on the August bestseller list at Mansfield’s Ink Bookshop.

TALKING LITERARY: Jane Leonard, author Georgina Banks and Charlotte Lindsay discussed Georgina’s wartime book “Back to Bangka.”

 TRIBUTE: Dorothy ‘”Bud’” Elmes, grew up in Cheshunt, trained as a nurse and served in World War II.

Nurses brutally massacred

By TERRY FRIEL

ON February 16, 1942, Japanese troops gunned down a group of Australian Army nurses in the shallow surf off a dazzlingly white beach on a remote Indonesian island.

The 22 had survived hours in the sea after their cargo ship, the Vyner Brooke, was sunk by Japanese bombers as it fled the chaos of the fall of Singapore.

They staggered ashore at Radiji Beach on Bangka Island, but were ordered back into the sea by the Japanese and machinegunned down from behind.

Only one, twenty-sevenyear-old Sister – later, Lieutenant-Colonel - Vivian Bullwinkle, survived.

In July this year, she became the first woman to be commemorated by a statue at the Australian War Museum.

Information

PUBLIC NOTICES

NOTICE OF COMMUNITY ASSET COMMITTEE AGREEMENT

In accordance with its community engagement policy and section 112 of the Local Government Act 2020, Mansfield Shire Council wishes to advise that it intends to enter into a Community Asset Committee Agreement with the Mansfield Tennis Association regarding the property located at 14-16 Elvins Street, Mansfield, for the period of 10 years, together with an unlimited number of additional ten (10) year agreement options, commencing 1 October 2023.

For further information, please contact Kym Killeen, Property Management Officer via email property@mansfield.vic.gov.au or phone at 03 5775 8555.

Kirsten Alexander Chief Executive Officer

Mansfield Junior Football

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Looking for new Committee Mansfield Junior Football Club AGM

Tuesday, October 10, 2023. 6pm at the Mansfield Football Club Social Rooms All positions available.

EMPLOYMENT

CAR ADVERTISERS

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

PHOTOGRAPHS

FOUND ADVERTISEMENTS

All found advertisements are

PERSONAL ADVERTISERS ADDITIONS

INTERNET

EMPLOYMENT

Rosehaven is expanding its services SUPPORT SERVICE WORKER, EEN’S & RN’S

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

Essential skills:

–Minimum qualification of Certificate III in Individual support or equivalent

–First aid certificate HLTAID013 or equivalent

–Excellent communication skills

–Ability to work autonomously

–Recent police check and or willing to obtain one

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

–Current Victorian driver’s licence

–Ability to work within a holistic team environment

–A compassionate and caring nature

Desired skills:

–Knowledge and understanding of delivery of community

palliative care

–Personal Care experience

–Food Handlers certificate

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

Applications close October 6, 2023.

Rosehaven is expanding its services FULLTIME ASSISTANT MANAGER JOB SHARE POSITION

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

Essential skills:

–Nursing, allied health or community services background/ qualifications

–Advocacy and assessment skills

–A compassionate and caring nature

–Efficient and organised

–Flexible and reliable

–First aid certificate HLTAID013 or equivalent

–Excellent communication skills

–Ability to work autonomously

–Recent police check and or willing to obtain one

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

–Current Victorian driver’s licence

–Ability to work within a holistic team environment

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

Desired skills:

–Post Graduate qualifications in palliative care desirable

–Management experience desirable

–Recent palliative care experience

–Knowledge and understanding of community palliative care

–Experience in volunteer management

–Demonstrated experience in management

–Food handler’s certificate

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

Applications close October 6, 2023.

Graphic Designer

Full or part time opportunity

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

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

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

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

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

2011 VW Tiguan

2.0 103TDi 5n auto (YIF824), silver, tow b ar, 242,000km used as work commute car, full service history, automatic, diesel, rwc, rego july 2024, $9900 neg, ph 0427 333 417.

Garage Sale

2020 Toyota Hilux SRS

4x4 2.8l, twin cab white, 23,000km, as new, tilt lid,, bull bar, towbar, side steps, 12 month reg (1SO2UL), $52,000. Ph 0457 906 725.

2015 Holden Cruze SRi-V, (1OK9GX), great first car, 1.6L turbo, auto. Top of the range including heated seats, Bluetooth, Sat.nav, 6 air bags. Registered to Nov. 2023. RW certificate. $8700. Couple minor scrapes on passenge r side. Contact Brad 0488 095 109.

BLACK Holden Cruze CDX 2010 (XWT095), 173,400klm. $3000 neg. Contact Andrew 0428 410 341.

CARAVANS & CAMPERS

2005, 17ft Crusader pop top caravan, twin beds, single axle, 3-way fridge, reverse cycle air conditioner, 4 burner gas cook top and grill, microwave, tv/aerial, pull out awning and walls, vic registered till September 2024, $19,500. Ph 0419 272 495.

Finance and Administration Manager

North East Media and its subsidiary companies has a vacancy at its head office in Wangaratta (Victoria) for a motivated and experienced accounting and business administration professional to provide administration management, financial management, and HR support across the group.

Reporting directly to the CEO, the successful applicant will be responsible for the provision of day-to-day accounting and financial management responsibilities in the company. They will deliver on all financial and management accounting requirements within allocated deadlines, collaborate with the wider business to optimise finance operations and provide insightful financial and team information to the CEO for strategic decision making.

Essential Experience: management and the ability to multitask while working autonomously. role and the group.

data entry and financial record-keeping. to collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders.

We offer a competitive and attractive salary package for the right person and the chance to build a good long-term stable career with a well-respected employer.

letter to: Edward Higgins

CEO North East Media Pty Ltd ehiggins@nemedia.com.au

2001 Honda CRV sport wagon (XYL126), nice paint work, all panels straight, interior v.g.c, incl seats and carpet. 4 good A.T tyres. Has little problem with overheating, good for motor swap or parts. Reg to Oct 19, 2023. $800, 235,000k’s on clock. Ph 0422 408 895.

2016 18’6” Kokoda Endure II Platinum Caravan, semi off road, full ensuite, washing machine, queen bed, 3 gas burners, 1 electric hot plates, microwave oven, tv, 175ltr fridge, freezer, 3 way pull out awning, many more extras, never been used, $47,500. Ph 0457 906 725.

Saturday 30 8am start. 1 New Street, Mansfield.

Household goods, quality furniture, shed stuff, and lots more.

GARAGE SALE

Thank you to all the kind people who came to assist at last week’s truck accident on the Maroondah Highway.

Your kindness and support is appreciated.

~ Steve James and Michael. Shaw’s Transport.

STEELE

The funeral service to honour the life of Sylvia Steele will be held at the Tobin Brothers Chapel, 604 Esplanade, Mt Martha on Monday, October 2, 2023, at 1pm.

The funeral will be live streamed. Details at www.tobinbrothers.com.au

MEMORIAL

McDONAGH

A gathering will be held to celebrate the life of Bill McDonagh at 145 Old Strathbogie Road, Merton on Friday, October 6, commencing at 2pm. Friends are encouraged to BYO chairs, refreshments and stories and to stay as long as you like.

2008 Holden VE SS Sedan (1KFU2), 197,800km, manual, 19” rims, has upgraded cams, genie extractors, 3-inch exhaust, high

FOR SALE

Ferris Commercial Ride-on Mower IS2000Z

61-inch cut, runs well, cuts fast,25 horsepower, recently serviced, Excellent condition. Located Euroa $10,500 ono. Ph 0418 577 788

FOR SALE

John Deere X380 Ride-on Mower. 54-inch cut, only 112hrs, in excellent condition. Located Euroa. $7200 ono. Ph 0418 577 788.

2009 VE SS Holden ute, Tow bar, auto, 6 ltr V8 motor, grey leather interior like new, whole car is like new and totally standard, only travelled 67,000km in 14 years, garaged, new tyres and more, (1BC4SG), recently ceramic treated. One of the best around, $45,000 neg. Ph 0428 662 847.

Monthly Medal win for Marsden

LADIES GOLF

By LINDA TERRY

WITH most of the ladies back from their winter travels, it is good to see a few even turning out for 9 holes on Tuesdays again.

This week, seven hit the front nine for Par, and Susan Kinloch performed very well to win with -2.

Lorraine Cullen was runner up with -4 and Pam Abbott got a nearest the pin.

On Wednesday, 26 played

and Kylie Egan continued her good form to win A grade with 35 points.

Linda Terry was runner up with 33 and Nicki Cooper third with 31.

In B Grade, Millie Cumming had a great day out to win with 38 points from Lyn Poulson 35 and Shelly Comerford 34.

Great scoring ladies.

Nearest the pins went to Lyn Holland (3rd), Linda Brook (7th), Margie FrankeWilliam (9th), Nicki Coop-

er (12th) and Kylie Egan (16th).

It was also the first round of Mansfield Golf League – our annual teams event which runs as a round robin between now and December.

There are nine teams playing, so this will keep some competitive sparring happening. Winners this week were Spring Chics, Tough as Nails, Tee Ladies and KLS Sloggers.

BOWLS OFF ON A ROLL

BOWLS

By LYNN FOOTS

THE bowls season has begun with the opening day last Sunday.

It was a fabulous day and from that moment on, our season was kicked into gear.

Tuesday saw a very energetic 26 players getting into the swing of the new season with the winners being Shifty, Tom Nicol and Renee Prosser with 1 draw and a win 25 points from Mike Harrison, Elaine Peterson and Anne Wileman with 1 win and a draw to give them 24 points.

Friday’s social bowls saw another fab field with 24 players having a red hot go for practice for our upcoming pennant season.

The winners on the day were Mark Bettany, Chris Laws, Doug Morley and Mick Hoban with 2 wins 33 points from President Ray, Noel Jackson, Harry smith and Ross Parsons with 2 wins 31 points.

On Saturday we played our annual practice match against the Moira bowls club.

This is an annual grudge match which we have played with our friends for many years.

After 21 ends and a fabulous BBQ, Mansfield retained the shield with the overall score being 85 shots to 65.

It was an awesome day enjoying the companionship with our many bowling friends at Moira.

With the bowling season upon us please respect and adhere to the green keeper’s directions. He does this not to upset members but needing members to understand that the green is older than many of us at the club.

NORTH East

Bushrangers

Basketball (NEBB) is a collaboration between local North East basketball associations with the commitment of “Creating Realistic Pathways for all North East Athletes”

Eleven NEBB junior teams compete in the Victorian Junior Basketball League (VJBL) - the highest level junior competition in Victoria.

One NEBB Youth League Men’s (YLM) team competes in the semi-professional Big V competition.

Big V & VJBL consist of teams from both metropolitan and regional Victoria.

Saturday was our Monthly Medal, sponsored by SportsFirst.

There was a great turn out of 21 players on a picture-perfect day.

The course is drying out nicely and the cored greens are starting to thicken up and it looks like it will be in absolute top shape for our championships which are starting in 10 days’ time.

The September Monthly Medal was won by Andrea Marsden, who knows how

to get to top form at the right time of the year, with nett 70.

Robyn Baker was unlucky to miss out just one shot behind with nett 71.

Jenny Koraus also put in a great round with nett 71 to win B Grade while Shelly Comerford was runner up in B Grade with 73.

Linda Brook was third in A grade with 73 and Glenis Skinner third in B Grade with 74.

Nearest the pins were

won by Sam Bailey (3rd), Linda Terry(7th) and Marion Mitchell (16th).

Jenny Koraus won the putting.

October will be a really busy month with our championships and lots of tournaments and Bowls happening around the district with our ladies travelling far and wide.

Good luck to everyone wherever they are playing; you have got to love spring golf.

https://www.playhq.com/basketball-victoria/register/9ab99f

ANNUAL DUEL: It was the fifth annual match between Mansfield Bowls Club and Moira Benalla Club on Saturday with Mansfield taking out the shield for the fifth straight time. Congratulations all round on good playing and the shield remains at Mansfield – (left) Mansfield club president, Ray Robinson and Moira Benalla Club president, Rob Jones congratulations each other on a great day’s play.

PHOTO: Pam Zierk-Mahoney

Competition heats up with weather

MEN’S GOLF

By TOM SWAN

THE sun has come out, the temperatures are rising and the golfers are returning to the course.

Our numbers this week have been really promising and with the course drying out we expect the numbers to continue to increase.

On Tuesday a par event was held with 25 playing.

Alan Parrott was successful with a score of 0 beating Don Clutterbuck on a countback with Tom Swan coming

in third with a score of -1 beating the ever consistent Maurice Walsh on another countback.

On Thursday for the weekly stableford competition we had a great field of 52 playing which is the largest field in a number of months.

The scores on the day highlight the terrific conditions that the course is now in.

The numbers meant that we had two divisions.

A Grade: 1st - Phil Conway 43 points (h/c 12); 2nd - Rob Healy 42 points (h/c 17); 3rd

Chas Hayes long distance series an intense competition

SHOOTING

By NEAL HAMBRIDGE

OVER the past four weeks our pennant team has been travelling to the Katandra Rifle Club for the Chas Hayes long distance series.

We had a reasonable level of confidence going into the three stage competition but a combination of key shooter unavailability and some fickle flatland winds testing our wind coaches, we were unable to defend our tenure of the Chas Hayes Trophy for another year.

The distances were 2 x700, 2x800 and 2x 900 yards respectively.

Karramous RC were the winners by one point from Katandra RC with East Cen-

tral District RC coming a hard earned third with 12 points.

Karramomus 16 points

Katandra 15 points

ECDRA 12 points

Shepp-Nathalia 11 points

Nagambie 6 points

Thanks to all our team members who contributed to the competition which, as usual, was carried out with intense concentration and, after the final shot, with good humour in the clubhouse.

A special thanks to our wind coaches, Graeme Kerr, Terry Gee, Glenn Chisholm and Des Coulter.

Over the next few weeks, we will be concluding our club Individual Championship series over 300, 500 and 600 yards.

- Stephen Daykin 40 points (h/c 17) on a countback.

B Grade: 1st - Paul Norris 40 points (h/c 26); 2nd - Perrin Gooding 38 points (h/c 31) on a countback; 3rdCharles Heath 38 points (h/c 20).

Well done to Phil on a great round which was 7 shots better than his handicap.

A special mention to Paul Lange who had a score of 40 points which in most weeks would win him the prize but this week he could only finish in 5th place, and also

to Charlie Heath who had a great round on his birthday.

There were 11 players who either equalled or bettered their handicaps on the day highlighting how well the course is playing.

On Saturday the September Monthly Medal sponsored by IGA was played with 42 playing.

There were 21 ladies playing in their monthly medal meaning we had a total of 63 members playing.

The winner of the medal was Jason Christopher who

had a great round of 69 net.

Once again because of the numbers we were able to hold two divisions.

A Grade: 1st - Alan Eustace 70 net (h/c 14); 2nd - Paul Lange 71 net (h/c 15) on a countback; 3rd - Kyle Bridgeman 71 net (h/c 0).

B Grade: 1st - Jason Christopher 69 net (h/c 26); 2ndBeau Purcell 73 net (h/c 23); 3rd - Bob Speed 74 net (h/c 27).

Well done to Jason who is now eligible to play in the Medal of Medals round that will be held in conjunction

with the October medal and the third round of the club championships.

Also a special mention to Mark “Funky” Jones who had an eagle on the 15th hole and to Kyle Bridgeman who won the J.D. Perks as the low handicap score.

A reminder that the Mansfield Golf League starts on October 4.

If you haven’t already entered a team the entry sheet is outside the pro shop and a reminder that the club championships start on Saturday, October 14.

Qualified umpire? The WDCA needs you!

THE Wangaratta and District Cricket Association is on the lookout for anyone interested in becoming an umpire this year.

Michael Hurley, WDCA umpire coordinator and past president, has been hard at work over the past two years improving conditions for umpires in the association, hoping to bring in new officiators.

“We looked at a number of factors which would not only retain the umpires that we currently have within the WDCA, but we’ve also looked at what might entice new faces to our ranks,” he said.

“The WDCA has addressed a number of elements which had slightly slipped from the state average, and I can now say the umpires within the WDCA are being rewarded as well, if not better, than within any association in the country.

“I’ve just come back from

playing and umpiring up on the Sunshine Coast and when comparing the associations, there are some very envious people who wouldn’t mind umpiring in the WDCA.”

Not only have umpire remuneration fees increased but the association decided to review the travel allowances for umpires, reflecting the changes within the expanding playing region and the cost pressures associated with using a vehicle.

The umpire coordination team has also gone through an overhaul, with Hurley heading up the panel with Benalla’s Darryl McNeilly and Beechworth’s Brad Buckingham.

“We also had a look at elements within the administrative functions of the umpiring process and Darryl, Brad and I have put together a number of guidelines which should ensure a more con-

sistent approach to umpire appointments, travel and mentoring,” Hurley said.

“Brad has also stuck his hand up this season to be the training support for umpires within the WDCA, so any new umpires or previous umpires stepping back into the system will have a support system in place.

“There are programs in place through Cricket Victoria or Cricket Australian which can take budding umpires through a pathway process.

“If you have a love for cricket, why not come and join us?

“You get the best seat in the house, you are in a great social environment and are handsomely rewarded.”

To find out more about umpiring in the Wangaratta and District Cricket Association’s 2023/24 season or to put your hand up, contact Michael Hurley on 0438 029 959.

INTENSE CONCETRATION: Paul Watkins shooting under the guidance of Terry Gee.

Bombers celebrate a successful season

O&KFNL

By SAMUEL O’BRIEN

THE Bonnie Doon Bombers celebrated their most successful season to date at their club presentation night last weekend, recognising the outstanding effort each player, coach and supporter has put in over the past year. This year, Bonnie Doon were premiers of the seniors football, B grade

netball and B reserve netball, with the under 15s and 17s runners up and the reserves football and A grade netball not able to progress all the way through the finals series. The stunning performance is a testament to the dedication each team has put in throughout the season, playing in the heat, rain and cold and consistently improving on themselves week by week.

A GRADE AWARD WINNERS: (From left) Erin Brond (runner up best and fairest and coaches award), Mia Tanner (best and fairest) and Steph Ward (most consistent).

B GRADE AWARD WINNERS: (From left) Casey Thompson (coaches award), Cass McCormack (best and fairest), Meagan Doeven (most consistent) and Jess Harris (runner up best and fairest).

B RESERVE AWARD WINNERS: (From left) Chrissy Blunt (best and fairest), Michelle Tanner (most consistent), Amy Clapham (runner up best and fairest) and Narelle Seymour (coaches award).

UNDER 17s AWARD WINNERS: Emmeline Evans (equal most consistent), Sadie Brakels (runner up best and fairest), Demi Murray (equal most consistent), Cobie McCormack (coaches award) and Charlotte Atherton (best and fairest).

UNDER 15s AWARD WINNERS: (From left) Sadie Brakels (coaches award), Tilly Thornton (runner up best and fairest), Amy Cash (best and fairest) and Maya Rhodes (most consistent).

Young riders are leading the charge for autism

YOUNG Mansfield-based riders Mia Ciarma and Jess Andrews are saddling up for autism in November and have raised almost $1,200 so far, as part of Mansfield Autism Statewide Services’ Rideathon.

Over 21 riders have registered for the annual event and Mia and Jess from Mansfield, along with Steph Kavcic from Riddells Creek, are leading the charge in the fundraising stakes.

Mia rides with Mansfield Pony Club and Jess with Benalla Pony Club and both are accomplished equestrians, with a firm love of horses and big hearts for a good cause.

Mia loves riding and relishes the challenge of working alongside an animal that is so intelligent and obedient.

Her “off-the-track” thoroughbred is lucky to have found such a caring home and future career.

“Forming connections with a horse and them being able to sense emotions, whilst offering companionship, definitely makes it a rewarding process,” she said.

Mia is hoping that her efforts can make a difference in the lives of those impacted by autism, whilst showing the positive impact that horses and riding can have in the lives of autistic people.

Jess is continuing a strong family tradition.

Both her mum Lisa James and Aunt Bess also rode to raise funds for autism as part of the Mansfield Rideathon when they were young girls.

The rideathon tradition is over 50 years old, having commenced in the 70s, with Dr Joan Curtis at the helm.

Jess has both ‘off-the-track” thoroughbreds and stock horses and has been riding since she was a toddler.

“I’m saddling up for autism because I want to help raise money for children with autism and their families.

“I have friends with autism and know it can be hard to get help.

“The work Mansfield Autism is doing to grow the facilities is astonishing and I’m hoping my small contri-

bution will help,” she said.

According to Simone Reeves, Chief Executive Officer, Mia and Jess are to be congratulated.

“It’s outstanding to have our youth showing such initiative and empathy, choosing to help others.

“They are a credit to themselves, their families and community,” she said.

Little Athletics is ready to go

THE Mansfield Little Athletics season is ready to go!

Starting next week at Lords Oval, training is Mondays 3:45-4:45pm and competition is Fridays 4:30pm until finish around 6pm.

Little Athletics clubs across Australia provide athletics for the fundamental motor skill development of five to 16 year olds.

Running, jumping and throwing are essential skills to play most sports so this is a great place to start.

Registrations are open via the Little Athletics Victoria website, if your

child has not tried Little Athletics before there is a free two week trial.

Make sure you sign them up online before attending training or competition for insurance reasons.

Athletics is an easy sport for parents to be involved, follow, watch and learn.

The Mansfield Little Athletics club has been going strong thanks to the parents volunteering since the 1970s.

The season follows term four dates and next year’s first term and the annual registration includes cross country season and winter running training.

A parenting tip for the new children joining in, Little Athletics awards personal improvement (Personal Bests), so it’s all about having a go.

The children that get the most out of the season are the children that attend regularly and improve throughout the season.

The club has a Facebook page with only members included for safety reasons, so make sure you ask to join that once you’ve signed up for regular updates.

Any further questions can be directed to a committee member or to this email mansfield@lavic.com.au

Four key events underpin the 2023 Mansfield Rideathon month of November, to raise funds to support Mansfield Autism’s expansion and provide a whole heap of fun for Mansfield’s community and visitors, in a celebration of all things high country.

The signature event is the High Country Dance on November 18, that features

hard folk rock band Whiskey Dram and catering by The Kitchen Door’s Megan Knapp.

“We definitely know how to party, dance and have fun at Mansfield Autism, so this night is an absolute must,” she said.

‘Breakfast on the Lawn’ kicks off the Mansfield Rideathon on Friday November

3, followed same day by the ‘Open Day at the Farm’ tours.

‘High Country Movie Night’, November 14 at the Mansfield Armchair Cinema, features Dream Horse starring Toni Collette and guest speaker Sophie Fox.

Sophie is a Racing Victoria Acknowledged “Off The Track” retrainer and will provide loads of insight into life after racing for our equine friends.

All the information, registrations and bookings for Mansfield Rideathon events and Saddle Up for Autism can be found at mansfieldrideathon.org.au

All funds raised from the Mansfield Rideathon support the expansion at the 100 acre farm, toward a Centre of Excellence Therapeutic Care Farm and specifically toward the furniture and fit out of our family retreat cabins.

The expansion is in direct response to the overwhelming demand for services that far exceeds Mansfield Autism’s current infrastructure capacity.

The incidence of autism is rising and affects up to 1 in 50 people.

The services Mansfield Autism provide for autistic children focus on the importance of family, exercise, healthy eating and early intervention.

Mansfield Autism offers day school, term therapeutic placements, respite and crisis care, family camps, in home practitioners, adult services, outreach and transition programs and professional and vocational training.

Mansfield Autism is a registered charity, not for profit, independent special school and NDIS provider.

For more information on Mansfield Rideathon go to https://mansfieldrideathon. org.au

MAKING A DIFFERENCE: Saddling up for Autism are Mia Ciarma and Jess Andrews.

Cricket action just around the corner

By NATHAN DE VRIES

THE final sirens have all but sounded on the winter football season, which means people across the region are digging out their whites for the 2023/24 Wangaratta and District Cricket Association season.

The A grade action starts on Saturday, October 7, with the draws for the remaining senior and junior grades still being finalised.

WDCA president Justin Kelly said final preparations were being made for fixtures and grounds.

“The A grade draw’s been done, we’re just waiting to see the availability of the Rovers ground and the

Norm Minns Oval because they’ve got to top dress those two ovals, which they should be doing this week,” he said.

“You need to give it a month’s rest, so we can play on them from October 21, and that affects the B grade draw as well, so we’ve got to get all that in place.

“B and C grade will predominantly be the north and south divisions, so we’ll do those draws this week.”

The main challenge in preparing for the 2023/24 season has been getting all players and clubs on board with the new PlayHQ digital management system, which will take the place of the longstanding MyCricket platform going forward.

During the months since the grand finals, clubs have been attending seminars, online tutorials and workshops to properly establish their organisation on the system, which is now mandatory for all cricket competitions across Australia.

Kelly said there had been some headaches in transitioning to the new format, but everything should be in place for the start of the season in October.

“NSW and Queensland used it last year and apparently they’ve ironed out

some of the bugs,” he said.

“Umpires and officials have got a completely different website which makes it a lot harder because previously it was all incorporated into MyCricket.

“We had to load all the draws onto a separate website.

“When you enter the venues, you used to have WDCA venues, but on PlayHQ you’ve got every venue in Australia that you’ve got to scroll through – it’s a quirky anomaly and a pain.

“I haven’t had a lot of bad feedback from the clubs, I don’t know how their registration process is going.

“I’m sure it’ll be a mad rush on Thursday night be-

DATE SET: Junior cricket in the

will begin on Saturday, October 14.

DATE SET FOR NEW JUNIOR SEASON

By NATHAN DE VRIES

JUNIOR cricket in the Wangaratta and District Cricket Association will commence one week after the start of the A grade season, with the first over to be bowled on Saturday, October 14.

The under 12, under 14 and under 16 competitions will hope for a better start to the season than last year’s, which saw the first three rounds washed out.

The junior competition will be structured much the same as previous, with a similar number of teams in contention.

“At this stage, we have eight under 16 teams, there are 12 under 14 teams, and 15 under 12 teams which will be split into two divisions,” WDCA secretary and junior club coordinator Wayne Cooper said.

“It’s about the same (as last year).

“Numbers are falling away at under 16s – Junior Magpies, Greta and Ovens

Come play with us.

Valley are all joining together for one team.”

Cooper said the uptake of the new mandatory PlayHQ system had thrown up some obstacles, but clubs were managing to sort everything out with support from the state governing body.

“There have been a lot of training sessions that the clubs have attended, and they’ve been really well attended,” he said.

“There have been some challenges implementing the system.

“Draws will be released soon, we’re just ironing out a few issues with venues on PlayHQ.”

To register with your local club, visit play.cricket.com.au and search for your local club.

The WDCA wishes to remind players and parents that registrations must be completed before the first round of competition, in order to play. Trials for the association’s representative sides are expected to commence in mid-November.

fore the first game, chasing blokes up on Friday.”

Rohan Berriman from the Merton Cricket Club said the new system presents more challenges than it solves.

“It’s more bureaucracy,” he said.

“We used to be able to call up a player if we were a man down and they would be able to play if we had their name and date of birth.

“Now they have to register online.

“It is going to hurt smaller clubs like Merton.”

Anyone interested in playing junior or senior cricket this year is encouraged to contact their local club and start the registration process.

Merton is ready for field

By ROHAN BERRIMAN

MERTON cricket is back and ready to go.

Merton Cricket Club will host old Ivanhoe Grammarians Cricket Club this Saturday at the Merton Cricket Ground in a pre-season hit out friendly practice match starting at 1 pm.

Any new or returning players are welcome to attend with training also starting this Thursday at 5.30.

Anyone is welcome to play on Saturday, just show up on the day to get involved.

Merton made the finals in the B Grade division of the Wangaratta Cricket Association last season and are hoping to be competitive again this season.

Call Rohan 0408316498 for any enquiries

SUMMER OF CRICKET: The WDCA is hard at work finalising venues for the start of the 2023/24 cricket season.

WDCA

PHOTO: Melissa Beattie

GOTAFE GVFL celebrates the league’s finest achievements

GVFNL

By DAN GODSMARK

THE Greater Shepparton community was treated to a night of glamour and excitement as the annual GOTAFE Goulburn Valley Football League (GVFL) awards night took center stage at the GV Hotel on September 18.

The event was nothing short of spectacular, with attendees and fans from across the region eagerly tuning in to catch the action live, thanks to a thrilling live stream.

One of the evening’s highlights was the crowning of Will Hayes as the Shepparton News Player of the Year, solidifying his reputation as one of the most outstanding players in the GVFL.

Hayes made the transition from the AFL , where he played 13 AFL games for both Carlton and the Bulldogs.

His adaptation to the

KING WILL: Will Hayes leads the way on the field for the Euroa Magpies.

Magpies has been remarkable and his performances throughout the season have made him a standout choice for this prestigious award.

The evening also witnessed Euroa’s Tylah Marchbank securing 19 votes, finishing fifth in the A-Grade league best and fairest.

Marchbank’s talent and netball craft did not go un-

GOALS GLORY: Robbie Wilson claims the Reserves’ leading goal kicker award.

noticed, adding to the excitement of the night.

Ellie Warnock’s expertise and leadership as a netball coach earned her the title of Senior Netball Coach of the Year.

Her guidance and passion for the sport have propelled her team to excellence, playing a pivotal role in helping her team reach the A-Grade grand final.

TEAM LEADER TRIUMPH: Ellie Warnock caps off the 2023 season with netball coach of the year award.

Andrew Hill’s unwavering commitment to developing young talent did not go unnoticed - he was awarded the prestigious Junior Coach of the Year accolade.

Hill’s coaching skills and mentorship have had a significant impact on the junior football scene for Euroa.

Robbie Wilson’s scoring prowess was on full display

POLLED WELL: Euroa A grade leader Tylah Marchbank finishes fifth in league’s best and fairest count.

as he clinched the title of Reserve leading goal kicker with an impressive tally of 58 goals.

His accuracy and consistency were instrumental in driving his team’s success.

However, the undisputed highlight of the big night was the presentation of the Morrison Medal, the most prestigious accolade in sen-

ior football among the GVFL’s teams.

In a thrilling moment, Jack O’Sullivan from the Seymour Football Netball Club was announced as the recipient of the Morrison Medal with an impressive 28 votes.

O’Sullivan’s exceptional skills, hard running and ability to win contested football made him the standout candidate for this honor.

Kaine Herbert from the Kyabram Football Netball Club came incredibly close, securing 27 votes.

Herbert’s remarkable season was widely recognized, as he emerged as the runner-up for the Morrison Medal for the second consecutive year.

As the season comes to a close, the GVFL community can look back with pride at another year of outstanding football and netball, eagerly anticipating what the future hold for these stars.

PHOTOS: Goulburn Valley League and Echuca Football Netball Club facebook pages

SENIOR FOOTBALL NETBALL

SUNDAY,

A Grade Echuca 35 def Euroa 31

Best on Court: Sheridan Townrow (Echuca)

B Grade Shepparton 48 def Echuca 41

Best on Court: Keeley O’Dwyer (Shepparton)

B Reserve Echuca 44 def Shepp Swans 43

Best on Court: Kylie Walker (Echuca)

Under 17s Mooroopna 40 def Shepparton 31

Best on Court: Demi Hendy (Mooroopna)

Under 15s Echuca 42 def Mooroopna 30

Best on Court: Rose Bryne (Echuca)

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 24

GRAND FINAL

BEST: ECHUCA: Kane Morris, Sam Willoughby, Andrew Walker, Samuel Reid, Jackson Stewart. KYABRAM: Brad Whitford, Rhys Clark, Jason Morgan, Charlie Barnett, Anthony DePasquale.

GOALS: ECHUCA: Hugh Byrne 3, Liam Tenace 3, Will Monahan 2, Kane Morris 2, Samuel Reid 2, Cooper Barber 1, Jackson Stewart 1, Sam Willoughby 1. KYABRAM: Anthony DePasquale 3, Bradley Mangan 2, Thomas Burnett 1, Joshua Dillon 1, Kaine Herbert 1, Reuben Rode 1.

RESERVES

Seymour 8.10.58 def by Shepparton United 11.5.71

BEST: SEYMOUR: Mitchell Waite, Tayte Lewis, Dylan Cook, Jay Eager, Cooper Lubeck. SHEPPARTON UNITED: Stephen Scott, Jordan Wiggins, Edward Adams, Samuel Mcinneny, Ramadan Yze.

GOALS: SEYMOUR: Mitchell Waite 2, Dylan Cook 1, Nicholas Davey 1, Gus Garner 1, Todd Lawrence 1, Julian Morgan

1, Benjamin Tarran 1. SHEPPARTON

UNITED: Ramadan Yze 3, Jamahl Clarke

2, Levy Tejones 2, Jamie Atkinson 1, Duane Hueston 1, Seb Pellegrino 1, Jake Zerbato 1.

UNDER 18s

Echuca 14.11.95 def Shepp Swans 7.7.49

BEST: ECHUCA: Makai Cronin, Max Hagan, Noah Langborne, Isaac Watson, Jaxson McMinn. SHEPP SWANS: Noah Smith, Alex Buzzo, Kade Anderson, Mason Reeves, Sam Bicknell. GOALS: ECHUCA: M Cronin 4, W Rohde 2, L Stone 2, S Edgar 1, K Green 1, M Hagan 1, L Orr 1, W Poulton 1, N Turner 1. SHEPP

SWANS: J Cooper 1, K Dwyer 1, M Grumley 1, L Rachele 1, K Thomas 1, F Tonks 1, X Walker 1.

GVL glory for Echuca

GVFNL

By SAMUEL O’BRIEN

OVER the past weekend, the best teams from the Goulburn Valley League (GVL) made their way to Deakin reserve to play against each other in grand final games.

Echuca’s under 15s netball team reigned supreme against a strong Mooroopna side despite a surge through the middle of the game.

The final term sealed the deal for Echuca, winning 42-30.

The Mooroopna under 17s side won defeated Shepparton 40-31, holding dominant throughout the whole game to take home the flag.

This was their first GVL netball premiership.

Echuca and the Shepparton Swans faced off in the B reserve grand final in a tightly contested clash.

Echuca defeated the Swans 44-43 in the final seconds of the game, keeping spectators on the edge of their seat.

The B grade grand final, Shepparton and Echuca went head-to-head in a tight game.

Shepparton pulled ahead, winning 48-41.

The A grade netball grand final between Euroa and Echuca was intense, with both sides vying for glory.

In the end, Echuca pulled ahead enough to win 35-31.

The under 18s football game saw Echuca hold out dominant against the Shepparton Swans, taking home third fourth GVL flag in a row 14.11 (95) to 7.8 (50).

The reserves football saw Shepparton United face off against Seymour in an exciting match.

In the last term, Shepparton United pulled off an impressive comeback, taking home the win 11.5 (71) to 8.10 (58).

The seniors grand final between Echuca and Kyabram was tight, with both teams matching scores in the first quarter.

At half time Kyabram was ahead, however Echuca fought back with intensity, pulling ahead to lead by 39 points at the final break.

Kyabram was not able to make up the gap, with Echuca winning 15.13 (103) to 9.13 (67) for the second year in a row.

Get set for an exciting local racing season

SPRING is here and as the picturesque Mansfield racecourse comes to life in preparation for the Marks IGA Melbourne Cup Day Picnic Races, it’s time to book tickets and packages to avoid disappointment.

Mansfield District Racing Club President Leanne Backwell said no changes have been made to admission prices and memberships, taking into consideration lost opportunities to race in recent years and cost of living rises.

“A day at the picnic races is an affordable outing for the whole family with a range of free entertainment,” she said.

General admission remains at $20, concession $15 (pension card to be shown at gate) and

there is no charge for children under 18.

The MDRC committee is also united in keeping membership subscriptions at $70 per person, with the option to purchase up to four guest tickets.

The advantages of membership include entry to the course and Members Enclosure for Mansfield’s two annual race meetings (November and January), complimentary race book and afternoon tea, access to the Members’ pavilion and Egan Bar and the option to reserve seating under the shade sails on the members’ lawn or in the pavilion.

“The MDRC greatly appreciates the commitment of our returning members and warmly

invites new members to the Club,” Ms Backwell said.

“Social connections with the racing industry and local community are quickly made through a shared interest in picnic racing.

“We are thrilled that members range in age from early 20s to 80s and beyond.”

In addition to thrilling racing, the usual highlights of a day at the Mansfield Picnics including Fashions on the Field, free children’s entertainment live music and a big screen, a new Lawn Party marquee package is available.

A day in the Lawn Party is in a large premium marquee and the price of $110 per person includes entry to the course and marquee

zone, a shady forecourt area with great track views, bar and round table seating, a boxed picnic lunch from The Kitchen Door and private bar featuring a selection of Delatite wines and other beverages for purchase.

Entertainment will be provided by as “the Punting Baron” Shane Matthews and patrons can elect to join in the punters club activities.

General admission and concession tickets will be available for purchase at the gate, but patrons are encouraged to book online for ease of entry to find their perfect spot on the lawns for a great day out.

Visit www.country.racing.com/ mansfield for more information and online bookings.

RACE DAY: Book your tickets now for the Marks IGA Melbourne Cup Day Picnic Races.

High

AFL Footy Grand Final Weekend

Spring is time for fun

By PAM ZIERK-MAHONEY

FOOTBALL finals are almost over, just the AFL grand final this weekend and the 2023 season is done and dusted for another year. And whichever team takes out the AFL flag it is a well done – you deserve it.

Local football and netball has also been completed, Bonnie Doon taking out several premiership flags including the seniors’ footballers breaking a long drought, and with the exception of some presentation nights for local clubs the celebrations are almost over.

So, now it is on to Spring and Summer for the High Country – which has already sprung with warmer weather, an early closure of the snow season, and bringing on the summer sports, tennis, cricket, swimming, cycling and everything there is to be had around the district.

There ae gardens to wander through, art exhibitions, High Country explorations fully catered for, seniors week celebrations and entertainment galore.

This issue of High Country Alive lets you know what is happening around the district, places to visit and things to do – including the start of the racing season for both horses and cars. Turn the pages and sit and read while you enjoy a cup of coffee or tea.

BONNIE Doon Seniors footballers celebrated big time after winning the Ovens & King League grand final on September 16 – the Bombers had not won a premiership flag for more than 14 years so the celebrations began with Seniors captain Sean Campitelli (left) and coach Ken Murray holding up the winner’s trophy.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

more hours at maze and gardens

By PAM ZIERK-MAHONEY

THERE is still plenty of time when nearing the end of the school term break to slip out to Goughs Bay and wander the gardens at High Country Maze, Gardens and Nursery.

And over the grand final footy weekend is the perfect time to see the gardens in all their spring glory.

Coming up from the beginning of October (only a week away) the gardens and gallery are opening Wednesdays for Devonshire teas in the garden from 11am to 3pm (when the kids return to school it is a great time for adults, who love peace and quiet, to enjoy the garden).

And also from the beginning of October the opening hours are being extended by an hour each opening day, catering for the Daylight Savings change.

New hours on weekends, school and public holidays, will be from 10am to 5pm (currently winter hours are 10-4pm).

If you are coming for lunch then the lunch menu includes the popular share platters with Milawa cheeses, charcuterie and Mt Zero olives etc - all back from October.

“Each Saturday, again from

the beginning of October, we are having a cocktail happy hour from 4pm to 5pm - all cocktails are $16,” said owner and operator, Nicki Goudberg.

And also coming up over the November Melbourne Cup weekend the gardens and gallery are taking part in the Mansfield Open Studio Trail (MOST) with the work of three artists, including Tony Pridham, on display.

Poetry in the Garden, presented by Mansfield Poets is on Sunday, October 29 from 4.30 to 8.30pm; details from Leonie Kinsela 0427 781 101there will be a $5 entry for this event.

Spring has arrived and the gates are open, so call out and view the spring blossoms at High Country Maze, Gardens and Nursery, 678 PiriesGoughs Bay Rd, Goughs Bay.

ART WITHIN: The High Country Maze gardens’ extensive walking paths have an array of artistic sculptures – all just waiting to be found.

COLOUR MIX: With spring comes an array of brightly coloured flowers, including early blooming roses, at the High Country Maze, Gardens and Nursery.

Kellehers kick their way to history

THERE were many highlights for the Bonnie Doon Football Club this season and long-term supporting families made their own history.

At the April 29 match played on the home ground five Kelleher boys all teamed up in the Reserves side – making it a great game and with a lot of family support from the sidelines as well.

The five boys playing were Joe, Ben, Noah, Judah and Patrick – all grandsons of keen Doon supporters Mick and Jeanette Kelleher (Joe, Ben and Noah being the sons of Jason and Denise – Judah and Patrick the sons of Anton and Anne Kelleher.

Both Jason and Anton

played for Doon for one season in 2000.

Two more brothers, Julian and Christian Kelleher played for their favourite club from 1998 through 2000 being in the winning seniors premiership team in 1999 and bringing home the reserves premiership flag in 2000.

Another of the Kelleher boys, Nathan, also played with Doon in 1998.

FAMILY: Playing for the Bonnie Doon Reserves the past season were five members of the one family (from left): Joe Kelleher, Ben Kelleher, Noah Kelleher, Judah Kelleher and Patrick Kelleher.

Patrick and Noah Kelleher continued through the season and Patrick played in the team’s semi final; to date he has played 40 games for the Bombers kicking two goals and named best player at least once.

Joe Kelleher up to nearing the end of the season had played 75 games for Doon with a total of six goals kicked and being named best player eight times.

THE Kerrigan grandchildren (too many) have all come up to live at Bonnie Doon. They and a cast of more than 50 are ready to hit the stage running in mid-October in the Mansfield Musical and Dramatic Society’s musical production “The Castle2.”

But why have they moved out of Melbourne … why are they rebuilding directly under the Maintongoon Road powerlines … and what are the children all dong eating sausage rolls at the Doon servo?

These and many other mysteries will be solved on stage in a production that will mix rock and roll, pantomime, melodrama and the great lines from the original that have entered the popular vernacular.

THE CASTLE2 is a new work inspired by The Castle, a popular movie made by Working Dog Productions, which was partly filmed in Bonnie Doon.

The local connection has inspired Will Twycross to pen this sequel from his imagination based on “what happened after.”

Will has written a number of musicals for the MMuDS previously/ Notably, ‘The Marvellous Mansfield Show’, ‘Mansfield’s Greatest Moments’ and ‘The Lyfe of Bryan’, and this show is, like the others, full of local references.

THE CASTLE2 is set in the the Kerrigan holiday house at Bonnie Doon.

Featuring a large and

enthusiastic cast, the show tells the story of what befalls the next Kerrigan generation as they make their big move to the country.

The story is quirky, and a very high energy, and will feature all the most endearing aspects of the original movie - but is not a stage version of the original movie.

Excitingly this is a brand new work written for and staged at the Mansfield Performing Arts Centre.

With a cast of more than 50 performers it features a live band and special effects.

MMuDS is proud to present this show that showcases the talent, creativity and vibe, oh yes the vibe, of our amazing community.

[Licensing disclaimer: “This production is not a stage version of the original Working dog film ‘The Castle’. References to the original characters and places involved in this production do not reflect the views of the Writers, producer, Production crew or cast of the original film developed by Working Dog. Working Dog has not had input into the creation of this production.

the MMuDS is proud to announce that this is their 40th anniversary year.

And THE CASTLE2 tickets have been discounted to enable the widest possible audience to enjoy our anniversary show.

The show is booking fast, with the weekend shows all but sold out in record time. To avoid disappointment, get online at www.mmuds.org.au

We are thrilled to have Australia’s foremost wildlife and bird artist working in our art gallery FROMEVERYOPENDAY DURING10-4PM SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

mansfieldcourier.com.au HIGH COUNTRY ALIVE - AFL Grand Final Weekend 2023 - Page 3

KIDS GALORE: The Kerrigan Grandchildren (with sausage rolls all ‘round) at the Bonnie Doon servo.

CASTLE2 – Kerrigans move to the Doon

By PAM ZIERK-MAHONEY

Spring racing and fashion go hand in hand

BY LEANNE BACKWELL

FASHIONS on the Field has been a Spring Racing highlight in Australia for more than 50 years and the Mansfield District Racing Club will continue the tradition at the Marks IGA Melbourne Cup Day Picnic Races on November 7.

At racecourses ranging from prestigious Flemington to dusty outback hamlets, racegoers take to the stage

(or sometimes the back of a truck), to parade their fashion choices in the quest for a coveted sash and prizes.

At Mansfield, the Fashions on the Field competition, sponsored by Delatite Wines, provides an opportunity for patrons to join in the fun and spectacle of parading their outfit on the catwalk and to be in the running for stylish sashes, floral bouquets and a range of great prizes from local business.

Judges for this year are Sarah Cox and Mim O’Halloran.

Sarah is a member of the Wodonga Race Club committee and has been a successful competitor in country racing fashions competitions.

She was sashed Best Dressed Female 25-40 years at the Mansfield Cup in January and was awarded the Best Millinery prize.

Mim is a recent Mansfield

local, who has combined her love of fashion with a career in hair and beauty.

She often competes in Fashions on the Field at country venues and has modelled for fundraising events.

Mim’s judging experience includes Shepparton’s Deb of the Year.

In judging racing fashion, Sarah and Mim will be looking for the appropriateness of the outfit for the event, style and

originality, the incorporation of current fashion trends and millinery and accessories.

Their message to racegoers considering entry, especially for the first time is “Don’t be shy, you are amongst fellow fashion enthusiasts, and we would love you to share your fashion choices with us in a welcoming and fun setting.”

Judging will be held in the all-weather Fashions Marquee hosted by Sarah Duffy and

Rolf Koren will be providing some upbeat accompanying music.

Competition will begin at 12- noon with the children’s competition and registration will take place 15 minutes before each category. Look out for the Fashions on the Field posters around High Street, stay updated on social media via @ mansfieldcountryraces or email events@mansfieldraces with inquiries.

HEIGHT OF FASHION: Sponsored by Delatite Winery, the Ladies Fashions on the Field is hotly contested each year at the annual Cup Day festival.

TEENS FASHIONS: From Tots to Teens, Fashions on the Field attracts loads of entries at the Melbourne Cup Day Mansfield races. Come and enjoy the fun.

It’s time for Seniors to have some fun!

THE Victorian Seniors Festival is back throughout October, bigger and better than ever to celebrate the valuable contribution older Victorians make to our local communities.

WE’RE OPEN: The Mansfield Mens Shed will be open for visitors.

Gold-winning race venue set for the Cup

By PAM ZIERK-MAHONEY

LAST year’s Benalla Gold Cup was nominated for Country Racing Victoria’s Event of the Year, with the Benalla Racing Club taking home the Club of the Year award .

And this year’s Cup Meet is about to happen, so get in quick for tickets to the Benalla Gold Cup as it happens this Friday, September 29.

And top class racing is set to continue through the spring and summer racing season at this perfect venue set just off Shepparton Road.

The club invites anyone interested to come along to see what all the fuss is about and enjoy a Country Cup experience like no other, at this week’s 2023 Benalla Gold Cup.

The club has gained quite a reputation over the years with our Benalla Gold Cup growing into the “biggest bash” of the season .

We’re well into the business end of the countdown to the big day, so flick the group text round and get your booking sorted in a couple of clicks.

Enjoy the good vibes on course throughout a massive afternoon of live action, as you eat, drink, laugh, catch up with mates, then get set to bust out a barefoot boogie on the lawns at the most EPIC party of the year.

We’re bringing some of Melbourne’s most exciting performers to the Benalla stage, to spin the decks and belt out your favorite tune.

The food and drinks will flow, as we celebrate everything that makes country racing so great.

For further information go to https:// country.racing.com/benalla-cup

This year’s theme is “Learn, live, love,” which focuses on the importance of finding new things to learn, embracing experiences that bring joy, and having the freedom to

live life the way you choose as you age. The festival will have thousands of free and low-cost events across the state, including in Mansfield and surrounds with events hosted by local community organisations and the local shire council.

The Mansfield Shire events are below:

Mansfield Seniors Ball: Where: Mansfield Golf

Club, 24 Kidston Parade, Mansfield, VIC 3722.

When: October 5, 5:30 pm - 10:00 pm.

What: The Seniors Ball returns for 2023 after a sellout in 2022. For $15 per person, enjoy a two-course meal as dup 2 Easy play your favourite tunes across a multitude of genres and eras.

Mansfield Men’s Shed Open Day:

Where: Mansfield Men’s Shed, Erril St, Mansfield, VIC 3722

When: October 14, 9am - 1pm.

What: Come down and see what it is all about. The Men’s Shed movement has become one of the most powerful tools in addressing health and wellbeing. Watch demonstrations, enjoy a free sausage and browse the clearance sale with tools, tables and more.

GREAT TIMES: Come casual or dressed up - just come to the Benalla Gold Cup race meeting.

PHOTO: Courtesy Benalla Race Club

Winton: a proud history of racing legends

By PAM ZIERK-MAHONEY

WINTON Raceway’s early days saw the inaugural appearances of the likes of racing legends Peter Brock, Alan James and Allan Moffat.

It also welcomed 1976 World Formula One champion James Hunt a couple of years after he won his title.

The track, owned by the Benalla Auto Club and the Australian Auto Sport Alliance, is steeped in history and tradition.

The BAC was born of humble beginings in October, 1957, kicked off by local school teacher Bruce Watt. Its first general meeting was held in Walker’s Sports Store in Benalla’s Bridge Streetnow Hide’s Bakery - with an initial membership of 20.

The club conducted its first activity in December of that year in Benalla with the club moving on to conduct several rallies, then known as trials.

The BAC’s first motor gymkhana was held at Barjarg in May, 1958 to raise funds for the erection of a public hall.

The lap record o that race track was set by Hoot Gibson, in a Standard.

In August that year the club began planning to build a permanent motor racing track.

BAC’s first race meeting was conducted on January 25, 1959, with more than 50 entries.

In March 1959, the Confederation of Australian

Motor Sport inspected the Barjarg circuit and licensed it for open motor racing.

June 1960 saw plans announced for the establishment of a motor racing track on the Winton Recreation Reserve.

Development was enthusiastically supported by Winton residents and Benalla traders.

The construction of the 1.3 mile bitumen circuit was completed in just 12 months, with the top layer of blacktop put down just a few days before the inaugural meeting.

The first race meeting on November 26, 1961, included the entry of local star Barry Stilo, who set the track’s very first outright lap record of 1

minute 24.2 seconds in a Faux Pas.

The first full championship meeting at Winton was on December 9, 1962: the Victorian Formula Junior Championship,

In 1978 The Benalla Auto Club hosted the Rose City 10,000 which saw Formula One World Champion Hunt race at Winton in a Formula 5000.

In 1985, Winton hosted the first ever round of the Group A Shell Australian Touring Car Championship, which was also the first Touring Car round to be televised by the Seven Network.

The BAC’s round of the Shell Australian Touring Car Championship Series was a very popular one on the motorsport calendar.

In June, 2000, an arsonist set fire to the race control tower that had stood tall and proud over the circuit for many years.

But it was restored to its former glory in time for the next V8 round.

The circuit celebrated its 40th Anniversary in November, 2001.

Recent additions include the construction of pit lane garages, a 1,000-seat corporate pavilion, the new three-storey race control building and the two-storey media centre.

The historic Winton Motor Raceway offers racing fans a number of driving experiences catering for everyone from enthusiastic amateur racers through to professional drivers. Go and give it a try.

HONDA

7th

PEDDERS

SERIES ROUND 5

The next round is on November 4th.

Enter: wintonraceway.com.au/events

ADRENALIN RUSH: Winton Raceway has seen amazing action over the years.

UNIQUE: Winton holds a special place in Australian motor racing history.

See the High Country through local eyes

By PAM ZIERK-MAHONEY

WHEN you want to tour Victoria’s beautiful and scenic High Country but you’re not sure where to start, ask an expert – Steve Marshall of High Country Scenic Tours.

Steve has spent the past 35 years as a professional driver, mainly up in the snow fields of Mt Buller but also well beyond - anywhere in the state.

Steve has extensively explored the magnificent High Country - but admits that he will never see it all!

He shares his local knowledge whilst showing

you some of the highlights around the Man from Snowy River High Country, including Mt Buller, Mt Stirling, the Bluff and beyond.

Living in the Boorolite Valley, Steve ventures into the outdoor life, camping, fishing, horse riding and of course four-wheel-driving throughout the local area.

“Our 4WD vehicles have been specially prepared and equipped to enable us to transport you in comfort and safety,” Steve said.

“I have experience and training in 4WD off-road operation, first aid and

emergency procedures and have extensive knowledge of the High Country and its history from day trips.

Catering for up to 15 people - or specially personalised luxury private tours for up to four people, Steve can accommodate tours to suit you.

“Tell us where you want to go, what you want to see, and we will customise a tour that will exceed your expectations and experience that you will rave about to your friends and family,” he said.

Steve has also branched out further and can provide

full transport services whether it is pickup from Melbourne or Albury airports to drop off points for bushwalkers and picking up again at the end of your venture.

“I can now offer transport services all year round,” Steve said.

“Bushwalkers sometimes need to be dropped off at a point – walk the bush for several days and then picked up again - I can accommodate that as well.

“Personal tours can range from anywhere in High Country including Wonnangatta Valley, to Craig’s

Hut, Razor Back, Mt Buller, Mt Stirling, the Razorback Hut, iconic cattleman’s huts, historic gold rush towns, or the haunts of bushrangers Ned Kelly and Harry Powers.

“However, some of these tours and places to visit are not available to get into until the end of October when the bush roads reopen following the winter, so I advise you to book now as things can get busy when the bush roads reopen,” he said.

“In the meantime, there are still plenty of things to do and places to see through Victoria’s ‘best scenery’

or perhaps consider a ‘Bushranger and Outlaws’ day tour.

All tours include pick up from local accommodation or the Mansfield Visitor Information Centre (and return), morning teas and lunch.

We are available 24/7 and offer gift certificates if you would like to give someone ‘an experience of their lives’. Full day tours start $200 +GST per person.

Contact Steve Marshall on 0455 113 772 or email at: info@highcountryscenictours. com

TOURING COMFORT: Designed to “go anywhere,” High Country Scenic Tour vehicles have been adapted to travel the toughest bush tracks or the smoothest of highways. PHOTO: Supplied

It’s getting Hot at the club!

By PAM ZIERK-MAHONEY

THE Mansfield Golf Club is more than just a venue to play a round of golf – there is always something happening on the social scene as well.

Coming up (not until November 11) – and one to put into your social calendar - is the “Big City Beat Show” a “Gatsby style” night with all the popular big bands music as befits Big Band Swing Show.

This internationally acclaimed band also plays the best of the 70s, 80s and 90s –tributes to three iconic decades in musical history – all in one night.

A night not to be missed according to social events coordinator at the club, Cassandra.

But that’s not all! The rapidly growing entertainment schedule at the club includes live music every Sunday afternoon from 4.30pm through 7.30pm which also includes a Happy Hour from 4.30 to 5.30pm.

During Happy Hour, there are meat raffles to be won and a members draw as well.

But the big news is that the Sydney Hot Shots are also

coming to Mansfield.

Ladies get ready for a night of fund, fantasy and sexiness!

Described as the ‘ultimate ladies night,’ it is strictly for those over 18 and ready for a fun night out.

The Hot Shots are performing at the golf club on Monday, October 2. Bookings now open through Eventbrite.

The entertainment continues into November with of course the big Melbourne Cup week when Oaks Day will be celebrated again for the ladies with a luncheon which will have fantastic prizes for Fashions on the Field.

It’s always busy at the golf club and there are always people to talk to, coffees and drinks to be enjoyed, meals to be eaten or just relax with some time out and perhaps watch the golfers pass by as they enjoy a few holes of golf.

Watch for more news as in December the club is organizing a charity walk titled “Walk for a Clause” – Santas and elves will be everywhere and there will be activities for the kids, live music and plenty of early Christmas cheer.

For more information visit www.mansfieldgolfclub.com.au

What’s On

DROP BY: The Mansfield Golf Club is open for lunches and dinner Wednesday to Sunday.

ENTERTAINMENT: Ladies only night in October will feature the Sydney Hot Shots – the ultimate ladies’ night out.

MANSFIELD HISTORY & HERITAGE DISCOVERY TOUR

With compliments of the Mansfield Historical Society

Follow the numbers on your map: historical buildings are marked

1. On the right you pass the C.W.A. Avenue of Poplars. The Display board on the corner of Links Road listing the pioneering families of the district

2. On the opposite side of the Melbourne Road (Maroondah Highway) is a memorial rock marking 150 years of settlement in Victoria.

3. The Old Railway Station and Goods Shed. The th October 1891, with the th May 1977. Trains ran spasmodically until Monday thety now operates out of the restored Railway Station.

4. The Roundabout is bordered by the Delatite Hotel, rebuilt in 1895, the former Bank of NSW, built Court House, built from local bricks in 1879.

5. The Troopers’ monument dominates the centre of the roundabout. This was erected in 1880 by the people of Victoria and New South Wales in the memory of the three policemen who lost their lives at Stringybark Creek whilst pursuing the Kelly Gang.

Most of the trees were planted c1892 and several early buildings line this street. They include

No. 149 Former State Bank building No. 110-112 Formerly Begley’s General Store No. 111 Buckland Federal Building

No. 101 Formerly Men’s Club; has in the past been a pharmacy, restaurant and clothing store.

No. 91 Lolly Shop (Cahn’s bluestone Building 1873). -

tween 1892-1971

7. Monuments in High Street

a). The Sundial and two Millstones brought out from Scotland and used on Wappan run from Family.

b). Dr Reynolds Memorial and drinking founesteemed 1st medical practitioner, Samuel Reynolds.

c). Stone Water trough and Hitching Posts recall the days when horses and horse drawn vehicles were the main mode of transport. This Metropolitan Drinking Fountain originally came from Westminster, London. It was erected in 1914 by the sister of George Fitzmaurice of Preston Station as a memorial.

d). Goodman Obelisk. Erected in memory of Herbert John Goodman, a Sergeant in the Victorian Bushman’s Corps, killed in action in 1900 during the Boer War in South Africa.

8. The Monier Bridge opened in 1903, which spans Fords creek, designed by Sir John Monash

9. Botanic Park, originally J. Walker Paddock st held in 1857. The park has been continually developed over recent years by the community and Shire Council. A footbridge across Fords Creek to Baldry Street was completed in 1994.

10. Built in 1892 as the town’s Free Library (Ailsa Historical Society rooms; now under restora-

11. St. Francis Xavier’s Catholic Church built in 1937 and St. Mary’s Hall, formerly the church, built in 1892.

Sergeant

14. was built in 1871. This year celebrating its 150th anniversary. Some of the original trees still stand.

15. St John’s Anglican Church dating back from

Recreation Reserve. Home of the Eagles Football team, skatepark and children’s playground. The Memorial Gates were unveiled in 1921, modelled on the historic Menin Gate in service of their country. The H.P. William seat was erected in memory of the Veterans of the Great War 1914-1918 by his comrades.

During November 1994, it was amalgamated with two other shires to become the Delatite Shire. In October and the Benalla Rural City.

12. On the left stands Alzburg Inn Resort, formerly the Sisters of Mercy Convent built in 1891. Further along you see St Mary’s Primary School.

The Court House on the corner is on the Historical Building Register of Victoria, has a National Trust listing, and is on the National Estates Register. It was here the Kelly Gang were declared outlaws following the Stringy Bark Creek events.

17. in 1877.

No. 110-12 Choices Milk Bar originally Begley’s General Store. The Backpackers Inn now forms part of the original store. End of tour. We trust you enjoyed our town.

Magnolia House - 190 Mt Buller Rd, now Ros Ritchie Wines cellar door

13.

the grave stones to mark the burial sites of

now B&B accomodation. www.mansfieldmtbuller.com.au

Maps and images kindly provided by the Mansfield Shire. For more info on things to see and do – visit www.mansfieldmtbuller.com.au

Kennedy, and Constables Scanlon and Lonigan plus many other pioneers of the district.

Mansfield mansfieldhistoricalsociety.com.au

FOR SALE

253 McLeod Lane, 100 ac

Canavan Ray White Presents 100 acres, luxury farmhouse, stunning views & guest accommodation

Positioned at the end of a country lane capturing 360-degree views including snow-capped iconic Mt Buller ‘Traquair’ is a luxurious High Country estate that will take your breath away from the moment you drive up the tree-lined driveway.

Arriving at the property’s main house you are spoiled for choice. Whether you are looking for a high-end rural escape, a fully operational farm or a property with further income potential this is the full package.

Owners actively seeking offers. Sale by deadline 3pm 12th October.

Main House

Showcasing 360-degree rural and Mt Buller views

4 bedrooms, master with new en-suite and robes

New main bathroom and laundry with powder room

Formal lounge, study and open-plan kitchen and meals

High 3 metre ceilings throughout with detailed cornices

Views from every window, large wrap-around verandah

Covered outdoor entertainment area with pizza oven

Graceful blend of modern sophistication and country charm

Updated country-style kitchen with stone bench tops, Smeg 900 oven

The Property

SALE

Sale by deadline 3pm 12th Oct

100 acres, currently running a mixture of cattle, sheep and horses

Established trees, lush lawns and tree-lined driveway

Stables (10 x 15) with hot water

Huge machinery shed (24 x 12) with 4 high clearance sliding doors

Hay shed, multiple paddocks with water

Solar, numerous water tanks (over 200,000 litres of water), bore and 3 dams Sprinklers in the house yard, quality fencing

Opportunity to run a holiday letting business that sleeps 10

All furniture and beds available as walk-in walk-out

Can be divided into two separate rentals (4 bedroom plus 2 bedroom unit) both with kitchens or as one for larger groups

Well appointed and ideal for both winter and summer activities

Contact Canavan Ray White to arrange a private viewing, allow plenty of time as there is so much to see and appreciate.

Recently painted, new carpets and curtains throughout Wood fire, R/C split system, ceiling fans and gas hot water Kitchen with Westinghouse appliances, huge walk-in pantry Second lounge/family room, carpeted with access to verandah

Spacious master bedroom with robing and spa bath en-suite Three further generous sized bedrooms, two with built-in robing Shed 9m x 19m (approx.) with concrete floor, power plus stable Town water connection, bore plus 2 concrete water tanks

Amanda Nieuwenhuizen

amanda.n@nutrien.com.au

The

ultimate guide for tourists and locals

HIGH STREET MANSFIELD | 1300 222 262 | 7 DAYS A WEEK

ENJOY COUNTRY LIFE IN TOWN AT STONELEIGH PARK

5-20 ACRES READY TO BUILD NOW FROM $680,000

There's a small number of rural living lots available with sealed road access, power and NBN, all within moments of the Golf Course and High Street. You can 'live the dream' of a rural lifestyle without having to spend hours in the car driving in and out of town.

The address is Owens Creek Drive Mansfield, accessed via Stoneleigh Road, Kidston Parade or Merinda Way, but give us a call on 1300 222 262 and we will meet you there and help you choose the spot for your new country home.

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

It’s just one of the ways we work to get the best possible results for our customers, and one of the reasons we sell so many properties!