Ballots in the
By MIKE SMITH
ACROSS the state of Victoria, voting came to a close in local council elections at 6pm on Friday 25 October.
The nine candidates who campaigned in Mansfield Shire, competing for five places on council, will now have to patiently wait for officials to undertake the count before a new council is declared.
Any ballots returned to the election office or entering the postal system after the Friday 6pm cutoff will not be counted
towards the final vote.
The count will be finalised as of Friday 1 November when the final eligible votes, currently still making their way through the postal system, arrive.
Extraction of ballot papers from envelopes commenced Saturday 26 October, with counting commencing on Monday 28 October and lasting three weeks.
All results remain provisional until official declaration ceremonies are held, at which point
Mansfield Shire will declare a new council of five councillors from the nine nominated candidates.
The retirements of Cr Paul Sladdin and Cr Mark Holcombe mean there will be at least two new faces at council meetings going forwards.
As of end of day, Friday October 25, 78.52 per cent of the 8176 enrolled to vote in Mansfield Shire have returned their ballot.
The overall statewide turnout rate in 2020 was 81.47 per cent, with
Mansfield Shire at 79.83 per cent.
In 2020, of the 10,205 shire ratepayers enrolled, 8147 participated in the vote.
7692 votes were counted while 455 were informal votes, meaning the ballot paper was either not completed or completed incorrectly, and were not counted towards the final vote.
The final turnout for 2024 will be known after the close of the postal vote receipt period on
Friday 1 November.
Though the shire is amongst the fastest growing in the state, the number of ratepayers enrolled to vote has experienced a significant 20 per cent drop off from 2020 when 10,205 were enrolled.
State government changes to the enrolment process meant 3494 nonresident ratepayers were removed from the roll in 2024, though still eligible, they were required to reenrol to retain their right to vote.
Final count underway as Mansfield Shire awaits new council lineup yp
Many did not and the electorate’s vote numbers have consequently shrunk by over 2000.
Provisional results will be published on the VEC website as they become available following completion of preference distributions or computer calculations, with results slated to be available between Wednesday 6 and Friday 8 November.
Declaration ceremonies are expected to be held in all localities across Victoria between November 8-15.
LAST week Mansfield Primary School hosted a series of markets as part of the Social Enterprise program with year six students Heidi Stumpf, Isabella Aistrope, Lara Hempenstall, Tyson Parks and Levi McCoomb creating pom-pom birds for sale. Turn to page 12 and 13 for more pictures from the fundraiser.
PHOTO: Emma Oliver
Council’s curtain call sees praise and parting shots
By MIKE SMITH
WITH a new council to be named in the near future, last week the 2020-2024 iteration of the Mansfield Shire Council signed off with one last additional meeting to discuss the annual report.
Four councillors were in attendance with Cr Paul Sladdin, who is stepping back from shire business in 2024 after serving three terms, sending his apologies.
Cr Mark Holcombe, also not seeking reelection in 2024, kicked off proceedings by pointing out that council has managed to complete an impressive 74 of 77 capital works projects undertaken in 2024.
“It’s our fourth annual report, it’s a pretty good one,” said Cr Tehan.
“A lot has been achieved in the last term which I think is a credit to the organisation.”
“We’ve been in the fortunate position of receiving a lot of money from grants over the past four years and an enormous capital works program has been a reflection of that,” added Cr Rohan Webb.
“I think we’ll see less of this activity because the funding environment is drying up.”
In 2024, works undertaken include the addition of 84 parking spots in Mansfield township, reconstruction of the Mount Buller service road, the heavy vehicle alternative route, the commencement of construction of the Mansfield Heritage Muse-
CURTAIN CALL: At council’s final additional meeting, councillors
were present to discuss the annual report, while Cr
sent
for council’s achievements and a few parting shots, as councillors reflected on the report and their time in office.
um, and the reconstruction of Buttercup Road.
“This year saw some significant achievements on delivery of major projects to the community while delivering our core services and operating within financially responsible budget,” said Mayor Cr Steve Rabie.
“14.8 million dollars worth of capital grants projects with a large component of our funding coming from state and federal governments.
“A surplus of 4.045 million was achieved however an adjusted underlying deficit of 2.389 million was record-
ed in 23/24 primarily due to council receiving the annual financial assistance grant from the Victorian local Government grants commission after the end of the financial year.
“If the grant had been received in June as it has been for the last eight years, the underlying result would have been a surplus of 1.081 million an increase on the 700,000 underlying surplus achieved in 22/23.”
Towards the meeting’s end, Mayor Cr Rabie encouraged comments and reflections from his fellow councillors and Cr Rohan Webb
voiced his thoughts.
“Council bashing is a favourite Australian pastime and it’s really easy to do,” he said.
“You can sit behind a keyboard or you can get in the paper and write a letter and it’s just a great cathartic release for everyone but until you’re behind the lines, until you have an understanding of the enormous machine that is both council and government as a whole I really don’t think you have the right to comment.”
Cr Webb wasn’t the only one with comments on the report.
Graffiti in Bonnie Doon
Earlier in the meeting Cr Mark Holcombe congratulated Mayor Rabie on his attendance record, having not missed a single council meeting across the four year term.
But it wasn’t all pleasantries.
“Cr Webb, you had the worst achievement in the last 12 months,” said Cr Holcombe, in reference to the meeting attendance record.
“76 per cent which I think is not where it should be.”
“Is there a point to your comment?” asked Cr Webb.
“I just made the point,” replied Cr Holcombe.
And while Cr Holcombe’s point was crystal clear, he had more to say.
“Do councillors get penalised for attendance?” he asked Mansfield Shire CEO, Kirsten Alexander, who clarified leave provisions with the act for councillors.
“Otherwise it could be really abused.
“It’s quite noticeable, and it puts more work on other councillors when there’s absentees.”
Cr Holcombe’s question regarding penalties for attendance was taken on notice.
As the meeting drew to a close, Cr Holcombe used the platform to thank the shire.
“This is a very different shire than we walked into four years ago,” he said.
“The community satisfaction survey, it speaks volumes.
“When you look around town, the gardens, the roads, the library, all these services, the volunteers, what’s been done out in the community areas in terms of grants and support, it’s got a great feel about it.”
Before closing the meeting Mayor Cr Rabie wore his heart on his sleeve as he thanked his outgoing colleague.
“I’d like to thank you, Mark,” he said, a quaver in his voice highlighting the emotion of the moment.
“For helping me along the last four years and I’m sorry to see you go.
“And you Cr Tehan, I’ve learned a lot from you and it has been a great four years.”
POLICE are appealing for public assistance to help identify the person/s responsible for graffiti at a public facility in Bonnie Doon. Police have released images of the graffiti in the hopes that someone may know who is responsible. If you have information that may assist, please contact Mansfield Police Station on 03 5775 2555 or Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000.
HAVE INFORMATION?
Please contact Mansfield Police Station on 03 5775 2555.
Mark Holcombe, Rohan Webb, Steve Rabie, and James Tehan
Paul Sladdin
his apologies. The meeting featured both praise
Community bank aims to assist students
for the 2025 Bendigo Bank - Community Bank Mansfield & District Scholarships.
Fuelled by the belief that every student deserves the chance to pursue their aspirations, the scholarship program aims to support local students as they take steps towards making their dreams their reality.
The scholarship program endeavours to representing the diverse pool of talents and ambitions of Mansfield Shire community.
Since its inception in 2019, the program has invested $77,500 across 15 scholarships. Its recipients have gone on to study in various fields including Psychology, Computer Science, Law, Midwifery, Nursing, Education, and TAFE patisserie studies.
Freya Rose Valerio, a recipient of one of 2024’s scholarship says the extra money has allowed her to excel in her academic journey.
“Without the scholarship, I would not have had the opportunity to move to Melbourne,” she said.
“I would not have been able to complete my studies and participate in opportunities that have furthered my studies.
“The Scholarship helped me pay for accommodation.
“It has provided me with the opportunity to access materials, placements, and software.”
There are two scholarships available in 2025 - a $10,000 scholarship for Bachelor’s Degree students and a $4000 scholarship for TAFE students.
Students who face personal, medical, social, or financial circumstances that make it difficult to undertake further education, are encouraged to apply before Friday 24 2025 when applications close.
Given the impact it has had, allowing Ms Valerio to excel in her studies, she wished to pass her advice on to potential candidates for the 2025 scholarships.
“It is important to understand and communicate how the grant can help you,” she said.
“Ensure you communicate how the grant will provide opportunities specific to your desired area of study.
“Allow your application to reflect your ambitions and individual goals.
“Allow it to reflect your unique passion and personality.”
If you need help overcoming barriers to further education visit communitybankmansfield.smartygrants.com.au to find out more.
PETE DENAHY
WIDE ISLAND
Award-winning, always crowdpleasing, multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and comedian Pete Denahy is fronting the Bluegrass band 'Wide Island' in the Courtyard at the Delatite Hotel. With a swag of their original tunes plus some old classics, they will bring the songs of Australia, Kentucky and Japan to life in their own high energy way. Sun 10th Nov $35
Melbourne music scene luminaries Rebecca Barnard and Peter Farnan (Boom Crash Opera) team up to bring you the songs and intricate stylings of Joni Mitchell. After sellout shows over Melbourne and regional Victoria they bring the show to The Delatite Hotel.
PAST SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT: Freya Rose Valerio, a recipient of one of 2024’s scholarship says the extra money has allowed her to excel in her academic journey.
WEDNESDAY:
THURSDAY:
MONDAY:
TUESDAY:
The storm storm that shook the High the Country
By MIKE SMITH
JED Culican has a story to tell.
It begins with the storm that ripped through High Country on August 25 2024.
A storm, since classified as a tornado by the Bureau of Meteorology, that left a 25 kilometre long, 400 metre wide trail of destruction between Howes Creek and Boorolite.
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Perhaps strangely, it begins and it ends with a ceiling fan.
A storyteller at heart, as Jed Culican talks about the ceiling fan he and his partner picked out amongst “40,000 identical ceiling fans,” he personifies it.
He gives it life and a voice.
As it spins, it dreams, if such things are capable of dreaming, of breaking free and taking flight.
They almost never do.
On the rare occasion it does happen, it’s more the tragic stuff of Icarus than of the triumphant Wright brothers.
But on Sunday August 25, Jed Culican’s ceiling-fan took flight over Piries, Victoria.
And for a few seconds, it soared.
“I was cleaning out the rubbish four or five gullies over,” Mr Culican said.
“We’re talking eight, nine hundred metres away, and there’s a
broken fin from the ceiling fan.
“I’ve managed to find three bits, and I’ve laid them aside.
“Do I make a little dangly, wind chime?”
The ceiling-fan is just one piece of flotsam amongst innumerable similar pieces the storm blew away in its howling winds and driving rain.
But to Jed Culican it has come to symbolise a defining moment in his life, and so very much more.
“My partner, who’s very funny, she said Bunnings is apparently good at taking things back.
“‘Say, listen,’ she said, ‘we want our money back - we turned the fan on and the roof took off.”
Jed slaps his knee and lets out
a mighty laugh, his sense of humour in the face of a crisis that would break many is remarkable.
But it’s not all fun, games, and light hearted banter.
When the laughter fades, Mr Culican’s piercing blue gaze narrows.
Beneath the stoicism of the enduring cattleman, beneath his larrikin wit, there’s a philosopher who has spent the weeks since the storm soul-searching and finding meaning in the littlest of things.
“Is this fan symbolic of, if we can get this fan back together, if we can stick its bits back together, it’ll all be right?”
“The house was fully compli-
ant - it had all the bracing, and building compliance, regulations, engineer certificates, all that,” Mr Culican said of the home he was building when the storm blew in.
“And yet we’re hunkering down in the 150 year old shed.
“It’s 150 years old and it’s probably held together with a four inch rusty nail.
“Take what you want, but don’t take my children,” Jed asked the storm as he felt the swirling vortex of the tornado hit the shed.
And the storm, it seems, listened.
The house with all of its bracing, its building compliance, and its engineer certificates, wasn’t spared from the devastation.
But the ancient shed that Jed and his daughter were hunkered down in, was held together by its rusty four inch nail.
You can understand why Jed walks and talks with a renewed energy, enthusiasm, and an appreciation for life.
He knows that things could have turned out very differently that day.
Mr Culican, a master orator, can give life and emotional depth to the story of a ceilingfan that never got to spin before it flew.
But it’s when he talks about his daughter, Gabrielle, that he truly comes into his own.
Having experienced the storm together and subse-
▲THEREBUILD:MrCulicanhasbeenoverwhelmedbythesupport
▲ THE REBUILD: Mr Culican has been overwhelmed by the support the community has offered
Jed
was
quently navigated the aftermath over the past couple of months, Jed describes her as mighty on more than one occasion.
His eyes fill with shock and awe and admiration when he talks about her.
It’s clear why the storm that took his home has not defeated him.
What it took, he can rebuild.
But what it gave him, can never be taken away.
“It’s not easy being a parent and it’s not easy being someone’s child,” said Mr Culican.
“We’ve had our issues and we are getting back to where we should be, the storm just cemented it.
“I’ll take my house getting
knocked over, if I know that this can happen.
“Like I said to the storm, take it but don’t take her.
“I love my daughter, whatever happens, I’ll always love her.”
While he’s overjoyed his relationship with his daughter is flourishing in the wake of the storm, he’s saddened about the devastation it has wreaked upon the High Country.
Beautiful century old trees were stripped in an instant, branches and boughs were sucked up and spat out in all directions.
“Had you been there?” Mr Culican mused, a grimace upon his face.
“You probably would have
been cut in half.”
It has taken weeks to burn off the loose deadfall and it will take many more to clear the mess the 100km winds left behind.
But Mr Culican is looking ahead and into the future with optimism, he has been simply too busy moving forwards with life to look back upon anything with any kind of regret.
“We’re not designed to run backwards,” he said.
“Cows, chooks, horses, sparrows, none of us, no creature is designed to go back.”
And he’s had a lot of help in moving forwards, the outpouring of support from the community has been overwhelming.
b th m 1 a o to li w b ro d m in n
From undertaking the clean up to helping with the rebuild, the people of Mansfield Shire have made their support for Mr Culican loud and clear, and he could not be more grateful.
“We live in a beautiful community,” he said.
“I didn’t think I was very well liked or even very popular.
“My daughter put together a GoFundMe page which didn’t sit well with me, I prefer to give than to take.”
But Mr Culican would have to learn to accept help.
Within days the campaign had reached its goal of $35,000 and volunteers turned up in their droves to help with the clean up and rebuild.
“I can’t quite express just how touched I’ve been by all this,” said Mr Culican.
“It’s been incredible, this community and what they did is amazing.”
Before long, the house will be finished and nature will renew the land.
There will be little evidence left that the storm ever came through.
Other than the tinkling, or indeed the clattering, of a broken ceiling-fan repurposed as a wind chime.
The chime won’t stand as a testament to a storm’s destruction, but to a man’s enduring gratitude to his community and his steadfast love for his children.
him.
◀ WRECKAGE:
Culican’s home
ruined by the winds, its roof was blown off
▲ THE CULICAN FAMILY: (left to right) Gabrielle, Jed, Monica, and Lachlan Culican.
HEAVY LIFTING: The Bureau of Meteorology has since classified the storm as a tornado.
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
A dinner with Senator James Paterson
THE Mansfield Branch of the Liberal Party are pleased to announce they will be hosting the Shadow Minister for Home Affairs and Cyber Security, Senator James Paterson at a dinner at the Magnolia Tree on 13 November.
Elected at just 28 years of age in 2016, Senator Paterson became the youngest person to represent the coalition in the senate and he has since held a variety of key positions within his party.
With family in the Mansfield region, he has a standing association with the shire and an interest in the matters that matter to rural and regional Australians.
Senator Paterson will address guests on a range of issues around our economic and national security including the situation in the Middle East, the outcome of the US Election, China’s ambitions in the Indo Pacific and the impact of all this on Australia and our social cohesion.
Previously Chair of the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security, Senator Paterson will share his insights on challenges to Australia’s cyber security.
Senator Paterson will be joined in Mansfield by James Trenery, Liberal Candidate for Indi in the 2025 federal election.
The pair will visit small businesses and meet locals to discuss cost of living issues amongst other matters of concern.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
A long wait
WITH Mansfield Autism Statewide Services’ new property taking shape and looking very smart, so much more needs fixing in Mansfield to cater for families using the facility.
As the age limit for clients to attend the centre is 18 and access to NDIS is very limited, what is available here for older autistic people?
EACH week the Mansfield Courier will endeavour to publish a photo taken by the community or one of its staff.
If you have an interesting photo and want it published, send it to edit. mcourier@nemedia. com.au with the subject “Through My Lens”. Remember to include the date, location and the photographer’s name.
TELEGLOW: A beacon of light in the dark of night in Jamieson.
Will families staying at the centre be able to use Mansfields current limited health services or find a parking spot?
Families need services not unrealistic waiting times, especially for their essential health care.
Mary Parker, Mansfield
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. Nom de plumes will only be published at the editor’s discretion. Opinions expressed are not necessarily shared by this newspaper. Email edit.mcourier@ nemedia.com.au
Post Mansfield Courier, 98 High St, Mansfield, Vic 3722
PHOTO: Dindi Rides
Readers and Writers prepare for the year ahead
By LYNN ELDER
MANSFIELD Readers and Writers (MRW) are gearing up for the year ahead with writing competitions and a new date for the next festival following their AGM last Thursday night.
The meeting held at the Ink Bookshop saw the previous committee members returned unopposed and keen to get on with the tasks ahead.
Continuing in the executive roles are Dani Netherclift as president, Andrea Barton as vice president, treasurer is Charlotte Lindsay and secretary Belinda Crawford; all with considerable experience as authors and booksellers.
Presenting the president’s report for 2024, Ms Netherclift reflected on the positives from when MRW hosted its first readers and writers’ festival here in March 2023 through to the exciting road ahead.
There was acknowledgement of Miriam Zolin (who has since left Mansfield) as the inaugural president of the committee and driving force and visionary of the
initial festival that was well received by audiences and authors alike.
“We acknowledge again the hard work, organisation, and thought that went into producing this first festival, as well as the associated literary events and a second anthology, “Soul” by the previous committee and volunteers,” said Ms Netherclift
“Huge thanks goes to the first committee, sponsors and volunteers: Miriam Zolin
– who continues to support the festival in so many ways, both financially and with her support and advice – Ink Bookshop and Foodworks,” she said.
The decision was taken at the previous AGM in November 2023, to hold another festival not this year but in 2025.
Ms Zolin stepped down as president, with that role held by both Marg Attley and Leigh-Ann subsequently until their resignations for personal reasons, and Ms Netherclift accepted the position.
The committee came up with a date for the 2025 Mansfield Readers and Writers Festival, October 11 to 12.
The president said this date fitted in with the Mansfield Shire and other literary festivals nationally, and the beautiful spring weather was a perfect time to show off the town and surrounding communities.
“We have decided on a format and with an incredibly exciting list of prospective writers we are confident that the next festival will be one that people will not want to miss and will really put us
on the festival map,” said Ms Netherclift
Another important change is the amalgamation of the local “Bushy Tales” writing competition usually held in November after consultation with the organisers, and the MRW’s short story competition and anthology.
The new competition will be called “High Country Words”.
“This is an exciting devel-
opment, bringing as it does, poetry and bush poetry as new categories in the competition for the festival, and a whole new potential readership and level of participation,” Ms Netherclift said.
The past 12 months has involved some tweaking of the group’s purposes but still about celebrating storytelling, encouraging reading for learning and pleasure, and supporting Australian authors, publishers and
booksellers, and a focus on the arts and creativity in the high country.
MRW’s vision is to foster, mentor and encourage a love and appreciation of Australian literature.
There is a lot of hard work ahead but members were excited and committed.
Work involves raising funds by grant writing and with the help of the community and philanthropic support.
New committee members would be most welcome particularly people with specialised skills and organisational abilities.
As with the previous festival MRW will be looking to attract interested volunteers to help with next year’s event.
“We have a budget, authors and a date, now the real work begins to bring our vision together with the practicalities to make it all happen in October 2025,” said Ms Netherclift
Any one interested becoming a member or a volunteer, or in upcoming events can visit MRW’s Facebook page or website https:// mansfieldreadersandwriters.com/
COMMITTEE: Mansfield Readers & Writers welcomes back Charlotte Lindsay (left), Dani Netherclift, Belinda Crawford and Andrea Barton to carry on the work into 2025. PHOTO: Lynn Elder
Surprise 70th reunites Jamieson friends
JAMIESON ON THE LINE
with Carmel Dixon
LAST Saturday night, former Jamieson resident Bronwyn Quilty (nee Mason) celebrated her 70th birthday with 40 family members and friends at the Mansfield Commercial Hotel.
Bronwyn was overwhelmed by the surprise party, but after the initial shock, she enjoyed the evening with old Jamieson friends, family, and grandchildren.
Bronwyn and husband Graeme, who recently moved from Jamieson to Mansfield, still cherish family time in Jamieson with their five Jamieson grandchildren. Congratulations.
LAST week, the Jamieson Water Stand Pipe was accidentally knocked and needed repair.
Local plumbers Tom and Greg Boulton came to the rescue for the major fix, restoring the pipe after a few days of work.
This stand pipe is an essential piece of Jamieson infrastructure, as many local homeowners rely on it to top up their water tanks throughout the year.
LAST Sunday, 16 members of the Jamieson CFA attended a pre-fire season training session.
Jamieson CFA Brigade Training Officer, 2nd Lieutenant Gerry Moloney, coordinated the refresher session, helping members to familiarize themselves with equipment and protocols before fire season kicks off.
THE Jamieson CFA were called out late Saturday afternoon for a car rollover on the Howqua River Track near Running Creek. The CFA contacted the driver and confirmed there
were no injuries.
The tanker stopped at Howqua Bridge to meet 1st Lieutenant Steve Garito, who was returning from training and joined the crew.
The driver and passengers were safely waiting on the track for a tow truck, and with no fire risk present, the crew returned to Jamieson.
JAMIESON Primary School students and teachers attended a horse-riding event last Wednesday at
Your Council - Your News mansfield
Council Meetings
The upcoming scheduled Council meeting is Tuesday 26 November 2024 at 5pm and will be held both online and in person at the Council Chambers, 33 Highett Street, Mansfield. Go to the events section on our website for more information about how to observe the meeting or contact Customer Service on 5775 8555.
Work With Us!
Council currently has the following employment opportunities available. For full details visit Council's website mansfield.vic.gov.au Cadet
Camp Howqua. Students learned about horse care and grooming in the morning, becoming familiar with the horses. They later enjoyed a trail ride, thrilled to experience riding without fear.
Students regularly engage in sports and outdoor activities, including basketball, tennis, vortex throwing, and climbing on the new track at the Recreation Reserve. Currently, they are working
on an ‘Under the Sea’ discovery topic.
They are painting and decorating sea-themed images each week, creating scenes with grasses and marine animals, with hopes of discovering new creatures or even sunken treasure.
ST PETER’S Anglican Church service in Jamieson will be held on Sunday at 11:30am, conducted by Rev. Mel Clarke. All are welcome.
THE Jamieson Museum will open for the season next Saturday.
Volunteers have prepared exhibits throughout the year and are ready for visitors over the holiday weekend.
HEAVENLY Arts and Gardens will be open over the Cup weekend - Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. Pottery, art, and garden enthusiasts are invited to browse and enjoy the open gallery. All are welcome.
2025 Australia Day Awards
Mansfield Shire Council is now calling for nominations from organisations and individuals in the following categories:
Citizen of the Year
Senior Citizen of the Year
Community Event of the Year Young Citizen of the Year Community Group or Organisation
These awards provide all Shire residents with the opportunity to pay tribute to our outstanding local achievers.
Nomination forms can be obtained via the QR code, from Council’s website www.mansfield.vic.gov.au/CitizenAwards, by contacting Council’s EA Mayor & CEO, Lisa Fricke, on 5775 8516 or can be collected from the Library or the Municipal office at 33 Highett Street, Mansfield.
Kirsten Alexander, Chief Executive Officer
Final Call Out to 3G Users
Do you know someone in Mansfield Shire still using an old mobile handset? There are still 105 people in Mansfield Shire who are using a handset that won’t be able to make calls after 28 October. If you know someone who might miss this important update, you can help them check their phone’s status by sending an SMS with the number ‘3’ to 3498.
Telstra will respond with a message indicating whether their handset needs to be updated. We’re concerned that these individuals may be left unable to call emergency services, like 000, in case of an urgent situation. So please reach out to anyone you may know with an old handset.
Public Notices
Full details on the following matters can be found under 'Public Notices' in the Classified section of this week’s Mansfield Courier. Notice of Intent to Licence Land at Shire Depot, 141 Lakins Road, Mansfield for
CELEBRATION: Former Jamieson resident Bronwyn Quilty celebrated her 70th Birthday at the Mansfield Commercial Hotel on Saturday evening with her family and friends.
TRAINING: Jamieson CFA members training on Sunday morning at the Jamieson river.
Wheels spin at Mansfield’s first gravel bike expo
By TRINITY KNIGHT
ON October 19-20, All Terrain Cycles held their first-ever Gravel Bike Expo, which was a spinning success, showcasing a range of products in the gravel bike market alongside others.
Sixteen years ago, Shannon Rademaker started ATC, which is now a family business run alongside his wife, Narelle.
Shannon said he has seen an emerging market in the gravel bike space for quite a few years.
“Alongside this growing market, Tourism North East is putting together some gravel routes across the North East in a few weeks, which fits in nicely with the timing of the expo,” he said.
“We physically put the expo together about three months ago, pulling together resources and talking to the council.
“Then we got a local laws permit to hold the event on High Street.
“It was a simpler process than some of the larger events we’ve run previously.
“Our goal is to run more expos in the future, with additional prod-
ucts, and bring more people into Mansfield.
“We’ve got a very strong local riding scene, and we want to provide people with opportunities to see what’s out there as well.”
On Saturday last week, cycling enthusiasts from far and wide rolled through the expo stalls set up in the median strip on High Street.
ATC’s stall featured a number of Specialized Demo Fleet bikes, available for free test rides from their market stall.
“Specialized is one of the biggest and most well-known bike brands in the world, and they’re one of the main brands we sell,” Shannon said.
“They’re renowned for their innovation, research, and development.
“The main differences between a gravel bike and a road bike are the wider tyres, which make it more comfortable.
“They’re also a bit stronger and sturdier, with shock absorbers to handle bumps or potholes.
“They’re designed for adventuring into the mountains and backroads.
“Gravel riding is one of the most popular disciplines because it’s safer, there’s less traffic, and it’s more social.”
The demo included a small loop from Pikes Road, onto Aldous, and back into town.
Shannon said it was a nice and easy way for people to try out the bikes on gravel roads close to town.
“We gave each rider an hour and a half to test the bikes and get a feel for what gravel bike riding is all about,” he said.
On Sunday, 40 people participated in the free guided social gravel rides, which included a 45-kilometre loop and a 65-kilometre loop, both finishing on the rail trail.
“ATC provided safety, guidance, and ensured everyone had a good time,” Shannon said.
“The most positive part for me was the connection of people across the community.”
ATC brand ambassador Sammy McMahon joined the ATC team in 2018.
Sammy attended the expo and participated in the guided gravel ride over the weekend.
“It’s been great meeting lots of different people who are interested in riding bikes, and being with the ATC crew is always a lot of fun,” she said.
Before moving to Bright in 2018, she lived in Bendigo.
“I was at university, and a lot of people were road riding,” she said.
“I started road riding because I broke my hip while running and had to have a hip replacement.
“I went to the Mind Body Bike weekend at Mount Buller with a friend and met Narelle for the first time.”
Five years later, she moved to Bright and started mountain bike riding and racing.
“I had a bad bike crash and broke six ribs and my sternum,” she said.
“My ribs went through my lungs, and one of my lungs collapsed.
“I started doing some gravel riding as a way to stay fit with less risk while recovering from the injury.
“Then I realised I really enjoyed gravel riding alongside mountain biking.
“I also really like enduro riding, which is what we call gravity racing, where you pedal uphill un-
timed and are only timed on the descent.
“I kept in touch with Narelle and Shannon, and they said they’d love to have me on board.”
On August 13-31 this year, Sammy completed the Silk Road Mountain race in Kyrgyzstan, one of the most strenuous and scenic in the world.
“The Silk Road race is a bikepacking race, which is similar to backpacking, but you carry all your equipment on your bike,” she said.
“The time limit was 15 days, and it covered 1,950 kilometres with 33,000 metres of climbing through the Tian Shan mountain range.
“I finished it in 13 days.”
The race started with 200 participants, but only 109 made it to the finish line.
“There were 24 women, and I was very lucky to be the sixth one across the line,” Sammy said.
“I find bikes, especially mountain biking, to be quite an empowering tool for girls and women.
“I pay a lot of my own way, but ATC supports me by providing new gear, servicing my bike, and offering emotional and moral support.”
GRAVEL EXPO: (from left) Shannon Rademaker, Sammy McMahon and Narelle Rademaker at the gravel bike expo on October 19th.
RIDE HIGH COUNTRY: Christina Harris provided information about the best places to ride across the High Country.
BIKE COMMUNITY: Around 300 people strolled through All Terrain Cycles first gravel expo on October 19.
BIKE PRODUCTS: (from left) Matthew James and Chris Bodycoat. PHOTOS: Trinity Knight
YEAR 12 STUDENTS HAVE FINISHED ON A HIGH NOTE AT MANSFIELD SECONDARY COLLEGE
Celebrating the year 12 class of 2024
By LYNN ELDER
MANSFIELD Secondary College (MSC) 2024 year 12 students gathered for a celebration assembly last Wednesday, October 23, with a mixture of elation and uncertainty as they prepare for a future outside of school.
The 74 cohorts including Vocational Major and VCE students were the centre of attention at the special event attended by parents and other supporters who have shared the journey with them.
The final year students were greeted by a rousing round of applause as they filed into the Alex Pullin Stadium.
“Today we gather to celebrate a huge milestone as you end one chapter and start a new one as we reflect on how far you have come,” said the head of senior school and year 12 coordinator, Melanie Brooks in her opening address.
“Over the years you have faced lots of challenges and persevered.
“Yesterday was your last day of secondary school and you should be proud.
“No matter what results you get remember to do your very best and with integrity.”
The exceptional efforts of MSC’s Year 12 students have resulted in 18 per cent already receiving first preference offers, with VCE results, ATARs and university offers not officially released until December.
Keynote speaker Georgia Sheehan has been
representing Australia in diving for more than 10 years as both an individual and synchronised springboard diver.
In 2014, as a 15-yearold she was the youngest member of the Commonwealth Games team for Glasgow, and she placed fourth in the women’s one metre springboard.
“Along with the highlights there have been setbacks,” she said.
“I remember when I was nine years old as an awkward kid in the back seat on my way to dive training for the first time,” said Georgia.
“Standing on the board my heart raced.”
That first dive sparked her journey to achieve things she thought not possible.
Georgia outlined five lessons she has learned as a way to live your life.
Firstly, failure is not the end but the beginning.
She spoke of her 15 years of relentless training for
tryout for the 2024 Olympics in Paris.
The final scores saw Georgia placed third and only two would be selected to represent Australia.
She missed out by half a point.
“The smallest margin but a chasm between me and my dream, all the sacrifices seemed to be for nothing” she said.
The importance of resilience was the next lesson for dealing with moments in life when things do not go as they should.
Georgia believes the test is how you respond to setbacks.
“Failure is an opportunity to live and grow and come back stronger,” she said.
Then there is the power of consistency her third lesson which is about the “accumulation of small activities” done every day” even when you are tired.
was to push yourself.
Playing it safe, would have meant that Georgia would not have achieved what she has.
And finally, her most important bit of advice for students was do not be afraid to ask for help.
Asking for help is not a weakness.
“It is a sign of strength and courage to ask for help, and humility to lean on others,” said Georgia.
“We don’t achieve great things in isolation.
“Life is not just about reaching a goal, its about showing up, pushing through and celebrating the small things,” she said.
Georgia told students the best part of the journey is still ahead.
Pushing himself out of the comfort zone was
school captain and year 12 student, Judah Kelleher, usually a guitar player but choosing to sing and play.
He performed “Spring to Come” by John Butler Trio which was well received.
Later in proceedings guests and students were treated to daughter and father combination of Ashlin and Paul Riley, one a year 12 graduate and the other a music teacher at the college.
Acknowledging the journey ahead for students, Ashlin sang David Bowie’s “Space Oddity” with Paul on guitar.
Several students were recognised for their significant academic achievements throughout the year.
English and literature awards were presented to Adele Leon and Phoebe Scott who were highly regarded for their “understanding” and “nuanced perception” of language.
Charlie Hall and Mai Virtanen were worthy
recipients of the maths methods awards showing a passion for the subject.
Science academic awards were presented to Mai Virtanen for biology/ chemistry, Charlie Hall for physics and Charlotte Atherton for psychology.
The humanities faculty award went to Adele Leon whose love of history was noted.
Max Mahoney and Max Watson accepted health and physical education awards.
The excellent language skills in Indonesian studies were acknowledged in awards to Charlie Hall and Maddie Maher.
Leadership skills and ability to work as part of a team was recognised with the VCE/VM Faculty Award to Jessica Andrews.
The dedication to art by student Emily Doig was also awarded.
These awards were followed by a presentation to those students who had completed school-based apprenticeships through Head Start.
VOCATIONAL: This group of students were recognised for completing their school-based studies. Head Start coordinator Steve Gurley was on hand to mark their achievements.
PHOTOS: Lynn Elder
LOVE OF WORDS: Phoebe Scott received a English and literature award for her outstanding efforts during the year from principal Tim Hall.
RECOGNITION: Max Mahoney was among several students to receive awards for their achievements.
NOTEWORTHY: School captain Judah Kelleher impressed with his performance at the assembly celebration.
epr
LEGACY: Samuel Arrowsmith was reflective as he laid his paver at the brick laying ceremony last week.
INSPIRING: Champion diver Georgia Sheehan provided plenty of encouragement and practical advice to students leaving school. She is flanked by the school leadership team.
This was followed by a speech from each of the four school captains, Pia Bell, Judah Kelleher, Zac Empey and Erin Brond, who all shared their last thoughts both amusing and reflective with the assembly. They were in
TRADITION: Commencing in 2016 Mansfield Secondary College year 12 students such as Jess Andrews get to leave their mark.
This was followedby a ag re em en t th at i n
agreement that in their leadership roles there had been “amazing opportunities.”
Zac encouraged his fellow year 12 students to “grab the bull by the horns and be courageous and brave”.
The final words came
from Mansfield Secondary College principal Tim Hall who congratulated year 12 on doing so well throughout the year.
“There is a culture in our community of strength in relationships and a sense of a journey together,” he said.
JUST ANOTHER BRICK: The class of 2024 was joined by parents and teachers for the brick laying ceremony.
The principal also acknowledged the essential role of parents to help the college achieve the task of educating students.
The assembly was dismissed for an opportunity to enjoy morning tea with year 12
students and their guests.
Then as a symbolic gesture students were invited to lay a paver and add their name to the class of 2024.
The bricklaying tradition began in 2016 and is a reminder to students of their time
spent at the college. Summing it up in the words of one student, “It was a long and hard year and there were struggles; but year 12 all worked together to get over the challenges and have fun doing it,” said Samuel Arrowsmith.
We buy used shotguns and rifles (inc. old Winchester, Marlin, BSA, Enfield, & Lithgow 303 Rifles & any other Martini Henry type rifles) scopes, bayonets, old ammunition, reloaders & any other hunting accessories. Valuations, deceased estates ( ), storage and transfers. We can come to you by appointment
This summer we are releasing a new drink! So, to celebrate we are hosting a party to celebrate. Join us under the stars, on long tables, with live music and feast all evening. Enjoy Antipasto platers, roaming pizzas, lemon gelato and most importantly our.... 2024 Piquette Gewürztraminer Friday 22nd November 6pm to 9.30pm $90pp
www.delatitewinery.com.au
FAMILY: Year 12 student Ashlin and her music teacher father Paul Riley performing together.
INTENT: Part of the 2024 year 12 group at Mansfield Secondary College.
TRADI Mansf stu to
MPS pop-up MPS pop-up markets raise funds raise for charity for
GRADE six students from Mansfield Primary School hosted a series of pop-up markets last week with the Social Enterprise program a much-loved part of the annual curriculum.
Working in groups of six, students turned their ideas into real-life trading enterprises with products sold to the school community, each grade given the opportunity to attend the market.
Funds raised were then donated to local charities, students responsible for determining which causes they wanted to support.
Student Tasmin Van Der Hoeven said the most difficult part was deciding what to make.
‘’I liked how we worked as a team and how we were able to all try our hardest to make new products,” she said.
“We learnt to work well as a team, even though it wasn’t easy at the start.”
Student Will Friend really
enjoyed working as a team and the process of choosing what to sell and make.
“My group learnt how to sew using the sewing machine - it was really fun,” he said.
This year there were 12 groups who worked to create handmade goods for the school market days, with chosen charities like the SES, CFA, Rosehaven, Rural Australians for Refugees, Leila Rose Foundation, Jamieson Wildlife, Mansfield Christian Fellowship, Southern Cross Kids Camp and Mansfield Food Pantry all beneficiaries of the fundraising.
Schools all over Victoria participate in the program and this year, for the first time, a popup at the Queen Victoria Markets was opened to showcase a few chosen groups’ products from across the state.
Two groups from Mansfield Primary School were chosen for their products to be represented
in Melbourne, one group making macrame and crochet keyrings and bookmarks, whilst the other group creating handmade playdough.
‘’I really liked the hands-on making part of the program,” said student Edie Gardiner.
“It’s really cool that our
Saturday, November 23 Yea Showgrounds 9am to 4pm
Royal Australian Navy Rock Band - 11am & 2pm Level up Gaming! 10 consoles & over 300 games
Victorian Axeman’s Woodchop Championships
Yea Cattle Show including Heifer Challenge
Sheep
Shearing
products got chosen to go to Melbourne, we felt really proud of our work.”
The program is proudly delivered by the Australian Centre for Rural Entrepreneurship (ACRE) and is part of the global Social Enterprise Academy Network.
COME AND BUY: Sweeney West and Will Hewitt were on spruiking duty.
ON TO A WINNER: Bath bombs proved a stellar idea for Isaac Lockyer, Ava Bertalli, Emma Hince, Angus Vasey and Bodhi Clifton.
GREAT IDEA: Caleb Hutchison, Angus Christopher, Tasmin Van Der Hoeven and Sarah Ingpen at their social enterprise stall.
IT’S A RUSH: Grade three students found a lot of exciting items to purchase at the popup market.
Merrijig trivia night fundraising success
CONCENTRATION:
Club Hotel.
MERRIJIG Public Hall sprang to life on October 12, as the main hall was filled with over 70 people participating in the annual trivia night.
Ten tables battled it out, with team Biggles taking out the top spot.
Popular quizmaster, Bryan Sherritt, held the rooms concentration across each round, throwing in his own authentically local anecdotes.
Hall President Adrian Lawrence, thought the rescheduled event was a great success and enjoyed the opportunity to showcase all that the Merrijig Hall has to offer.
“What a great night; we even had a bus load of trivia
enthusiasts join us from Benalla,” he said. Raffle prizes were hotly contested as winners were given an opportunity to quickly select from a large prize pool that was generously donated by sponsors including Tilnak Fine Art providing a family photographic experience; Swiftcrest Distillery “Moonshine” supplying locally produced gin, a genuine Swiss Army Knife provided by Outdoor Pleasure, and a large selection of books from Ink Bookshop. All funds raised directly support the Committee of Management to maintain the hall and continue to hold more community events.
Generations gather: Merrijig PS celebrates 150 years
By MIKE SMITH
THERE was at least one face in the crowd for each year Merrijig Primary School has operated as the school, a pillar of the community, celebrated its 150th birthday Saturday October 26.
A strong crowd, some in costume dating back to the 1870s, gathered for fun and games, good music and great company, proving just how important the school is to a thriving Merrijig community.
And though there were many familiar faces from families with deep roots in the region in attendance and both Federal Member for Indi Helen Haines and former Mayor Steve Rabie gave a speech to pay tribute to the school’s storied past and exciting future, the sun was the most distinguished guest on a trademark beautiful day in Merrijig.
Here’s to another 150 years under the high country’s sapphire skies.
CLASS OF 2024: The pupils of Merrijig Primary School performing “You’ve got a friend in me” to a loving audience.
A PILLAR OF THE COMMUNITY: The event drew a large crowd highlighting the school’s importance to the community.
Trivia goers at Merrijig Hall’s trivia night challenged by the questions provided by the Hunt
OVER THE MOON: Team Biggles celebrated their trivia win. (from left) Tom and Sue Swan, Julie Syme and Cody Riddell.
WINNERS ARE GRINNERS: Kerrie Purcell selected a step ladder donated by Yenckens on behalf of her son Glenn Purcell. PHOTOS: Supplied
OUTSIDE smoking areas will be a must for Mansfield hotels when all Victorian pubs and clubs go smoke free in 2007.
Victorian Premier Steve Bracks announced the legislation last week with healthcare the main incentive for change.
The move mooted earlier this year, was met with mixed response from local hotel owners.
Aspen Tavern owner Domingo Diaz welcomed the new legislation, saying it would provide a cleaner environment for staff and patrons.
“This will make pubs better and cleaner and a much better environment for people behind the bar,” he said.
Mr Diaz said his pub would designate smoking areas, in a big to provide a
Way Back Wednesday - a look back at what was making news 20 years ago this week.
suitable environment for both smokers and non-smokers.
IN SPORT, David Mensch has been reappointed Mansfield Football Club coach, putting an end to speculation regarding the Eagle’s top job that has been circulating around the Goulburn Valley.
The rumour mill hit overdrive late last week amid reports Mensch had been sacked, with recently resigned Wangaratta rovers coach Peter Tossol among those linked to the post.
SMOKERSTOLDTOBUTTOUT: S
The reports were rubbished by director of football Dennis Sheahan, who said protracted negotiations had been the sole reason for the delay in Mensch’s reappointment. has been reappointed
Introducing the ARTY Awards: Celebrating the Creative Talents of Mansfield’s Youth
MANSFIELD is set to host a brand-new event, the ARTY Awards, an exciting collaboration between Arts Mansfield, Radio Mansfield 99.7 FM, and MMuDS (Mansfield Musical & Dramatic Society).
Arts Mansfield is coordinating this project, to elevate the profile of the three groups respective awards honouring achievements across the Arts.
The long running Arts Mansfield Youth Encouragement Award, Ra-
dio Mansfield’s Chris Deutscher Primary and Secondary student Memorial Scholarships and Mansfield Music Dramatic Society’s Trish Sweeney Youth Encouragement Award and Harry Nix Music Encouragement Award.
This inaugural Arts’ bodies celebration will highlight the extraordinary talents of Mansfield’s young creatives and their benefactors.
A special awards ceremony will take place at the Delatite Hotel on Saturday, November 9, from 4-6
PM, where the winners of each award will be announced.
Traditionally, each organisation has held separate award announcements. This year, however, the ARTY Awards will unite under one banner, raising their award profile and shining a spotlight on Mansfield’s up-and-coming creative youth.
“We’re pretty pleased with the planning so far to make this a real celebration”, said Arts Mansfield’s President Gill Belle.
“In addition to the awards presentation, we’ve invited the Mansfield Shire Youth Centre to join us and they have organised feature performances by local musicians.
“This ensures an afternoon of entertainment and salute to a range of local talents.”
The ARTY Awards are generously sponsored by Community Bank Mansfield and District, whose support exemplifies their commitment to making a real difference
in the lives of local youth. Their assistance with the initial ARTYs is evidence that “banking can make a difference” and reflects the values of community and collaboration that underpin the awards, and at the heart of this event.
The afternoon promises to be an exciting celebration of creativity, talent, and community spirit. FREE tickets can be booked at https://www.trybooking.com/ events/landing/1306300
EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST - NOW OPEN
REF:
The Australian Government, represented by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, is inviting Expressions of Interest (EOIs) to sell water from water rights owners the Southern Connected Murray-Darling Basin who were not eligible for the Restoring Our Rivers: 2024 Selected Catchments Open Tender
This includes water right owners from within Irrigation Infrastructure Operator areas.
Owners of eligible water rights in the catchments listed below, including unregulated entitlements and section 51 licences, are invited to express their interest stating the proposed volume and price at which they want to sell their permanent water rights to the department
LIST OF CATCHMENTS:
NEW
WALES Murray River Murrumbidgee
Ovens & KingVictorian Murray
South Australian Murray
The decision to participate is completely voluntary. You must submit an EOI through this process if you want to be considered for any subsequent water purchasing in 2025
To read the Request for Expression of Interest and register your interest, please visit AusTender www.tenders.gov.au - and search for Restoring our Rivers.
MORE INFORMATION: For more information on voluntary water purchasing, visit www.dcceew.gov.au/watertender
ASSISTANCE: For help with using AusTender, visit help.tenders.gov.au If you can’t access AusTender or have questions about the expression of interest process, please email watertenders@dcceew.gov.au
HOW TO REGISTER:
Opened: 30 September 2024
Closing date: 12 noon AEDT, 2 Nov 2024
• Visit www.tenders.gov.au/atm and search for Restoring our Rivers
• Download and read the Request for Expression of Interest documents
• Login or Register as a new user
• Complete the expression of interest response form and submit your response.
Mansfield Football Club coach.
SMOKERS TOLD TO BUTT OUT: Outside smoking areas will be a must for Mansfield hotels when all Victorian pubs and clubs go smoke free in 2007.
MENSCH SIGNS ON FOR 2005: David Mensch
THIS is a rare opportunity to acquire a substantial holding in this premium, private and very peaceful, location.
There are 140 acres of improved pasture, with numerous well fenced paddocks currently carrying 65 cows and calves. 200 acres are currently fenced as conservation reserves with abundant wildlife, but are lightly grazed as part of the current
owner’s land management plan.
Human inhabitants are well catered for too, with a remarkable pavillion style home and a stunning lap pool where you can marvel at the views of Mt Buller, The Bluff and Timbertop from the comfort of your sunlounge.
There are 2 titles included in the sale which would allow for the development of a second dwelling
with minimal red tape. There are a number of potential home sites where you will enjoy spectacular views without encroaching on the privacy or views of the existing home.
Other features include a private airstrip, extensive shedding and a large grid connected solar array. Water is abundant with reliable rainfall, huge tanks and 12 exceptionally healthy dams.
Mt Buller offers payment plan flexibility
MT BULLER is giving skiers and snowboarders wishing to buy Season Membership for 2025 the flexibility to make a small down-payment now and defer the balance until next year.
“We know there are various competing financial demands at this time year, and that folk want to secure their Season Membership for a good price, so it makes sense to offer the flexibility of a payment plan to spread out the cost,” explains Buller Ski Lifts General Manager Noel Landry.
Adults can make a deposit of just $99 and children’s memberships are only $59 with the balance of the season membership fee not due until mid-May 2025.
Buller Ski Lifts have frozen the price of the 2025 Early Bird Season Membership at the 2024 rate with the discounted memberships available until 31 October.
Savvy skiers and boarders will snap up the Early Bird Season Membership this week before the initial sale window ends.
CFA to hold annual Torchlight Parade
On Friday, November 1, Mansfield Fire Brigade will hold its annual Torchlight Parade to open the High Country Festival.
The parade, led by the Wangaratta Pipe Band, begins at 8:15 pm from Mansfield station, moving along High Street and concluding at the Sports Complex for awards and fireworks.
Local CFA brigades will participate alongside Mansfield SES, Ambulance, and Department vehicles.
A historic fire truck will also feature, with close-up photo opportunities next year at the Merrijig CFA’s 100-year celebration.
The event celebrates local volunteers and reminds residents to prepare for the Fire Danger Period.
Mansfield Fire Station will open Saturday for public visits.
Alexandra show celebrates 150 years of local tradition
WITH springtime well and truly here, the thoughts of many throughout the Murrindindi and Mansfield Shires turn to their local Agricultural Shows.
A day to celebrate and champion all things agriculture, horticulture and production, the shows have been part of the local calendar for well over 130 years.
This year, the Alexandra Pastoral and Agricultural Association is celebrating 150 continuous years of committees and 139 years of events.
In the past, livestock and families would arrive at the show grounds in all their finery – the day was an opportunity to show off cattle, eggs, and baking skills and see what everyone else was doing with their breed stock.
While of late, the emphasis of shows has downgraded due to greater access to information, speedier communication and transport, the importance of promoting agriculture and horticulture in the towns has not.
With more and more agricultural land being taken for residential dwellings, the importance of highlighting agriculture and associated industries has never been higher.
Whether it’s the petting zoo and giving young people a chance to
experience animals firsthand, visiting the poultry pavilion and talking with experts about what breed of hen is best for your backyard, checking out the latest tractors and fuel delivery systems, or getting involved with the first-ever hobby horse events, there is something for everyone.
This year, the committee, with the generous support of their sponsors, is excited to be showcasing roving dinosaurs, jumping castles, all-day music, gold panning (thanks to the Alexandra and Eildon Lapidary Club), cattle display, shearing demonstration, and a guess-theweight competition.
There will also be donkeys, working dog events, dog obedience displays, face painting, heaps of kids’ activities, the mobile library, gymkhana, food, coffee and more.
Generous sponsors of this year’s show include Murrindindi Shire Council, Mal Ryan and Glen Solicitors, Eildon Outboard and Mercury Motors, and Dindi Kids, who will also be running some free activities.
Other sponsors include OBrien Real Estate, Taggerty Vet Clinic (who will be judging and running the Pet Parade at 1pm), Riddellvue Angus, Bruce Steuart with the gen-
erous supply of a truck for the musicians, and Simpsons Fuel.
Association President, Matt Dean, has said, “Without the generous support of these businesses, the show would not be able to continue.”
Association Vice President and Ladies Committee member, Pam Petersen, has been encouraging the community to get involved and submit items into the Ladies Pavilion categories for months.
With Facebook posts and workshops that were held at the Embassy of Ideas over the last school holidays, the committee is doing everything it can to get the community involved.
“It’s still not too late to enter,” says Pam.
“Have a look at the schedules for the horses, poultry, and Ladies Pavilion on our website and make sure that you prepurchase your show tickets as well.
Entries for the Ladies Pavilion are taken the days before the show so make sure you check when the section entries need to be in by.”
But what parts of the show are the committee members looking forward to most?
Well, Matt is keen to see cattle in the shed and the working dogs in action.
Julie is looking forward to a soft serve from long-time stall holder Mr Quick Whip and the photography section.
Pam is excited to see if Helen Godfrey will have any competition in the fruit cake section and also for the sack races.
Leanne and Jo are looking forward to the result of months of work, with the smooth running of the gymkhana and the hobby horse events.
Individuals and businesses looking for more information about the show, including sponsorship, trade spaces, and competition entries, are encouraged to look at the show website: alexandrashow.com.
There are links to everything as well as opportunities to prepurchase gate tickets and tickets for face painting and the jumping castle.
For specific information not listed on the website, contact the secretary at pna.alexandra@gmail.com.
With so much on within Murrindindi Shire over the weekend of 9-10 November, make it a weekend of adventure with the Alexandra Show, the Marysville Running Festival, and the Love Me Again Outdoor Education Market!
CELEBRATION: This year, the Alexandra Pastoral and Agricultural Association is celebrating 150 continuous years of committees and 139 years of events.
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
1 Who wrote “Paradise Lost”, John ... (6)
8 Name the physicist who formulated the theory of relativity, Albert ... (8)
9 What is a more common name for the “doghouse” (6)
10 Name a large glass of beer (8)
11 What is a summerhouse called (6)
12 Which gaseous element is used in orange-red tubular electrical discharge lamps (4)
13 When one directs the preparation of a newspaper, one does what (5)
16 Name an Australian country and western singer, Slim ... (5)
19 To force in or down by repeated somewhat light strokes, is to do what (4)
21 What is quinsy or croup known as (6)
22 What might we call a person involved in country life (8)
23 What is a scarf worn around the neck (6)
24 Name one of the rulers in a form of government in which the power is vested in a few (8)
25 What are the results of producing (6)
DOWN
2 Reykjavik is the capital of which North Atlantic republic (7)
3 What is the straight portion of a survey line between curves (7)
4 Name the US country and rock singer, Willie ... (6)
5 To overwhelm with amazement, is to do what (7)
6 Which former copper coins were equal to onetwelfth of a shilling (7)
7 What is a state of society without government or law (7)
13 Name a renowned US essayist and poet, Ralph Waldo ... (7)
E-QUATIONS
14 Which term describes inactivity or sluggishness (7)
15 Starlike is implied by which word (7)
17 To assign a person to higher status, is to do what (7)
18 What is a large drinking cup, now usually with a handle and sometimes a hinged cover (7)
20 To be unequal quality, or irregular, is to be what (6)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
1 COMATOSE
(a) Eating at the same table (b) Punctuated, as a sentence (c) Unconscious
2 PERPETUITY
(a) A difficulty (b) Endless time (c) A thorough search
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. Letters
CLUES:
Alto violin (5)
Distributed cards (5)
European Space Agency (3)
Four-wheel drive (coll) (3)
Indulgent binge (5)
Morose (3)
Obtained (3)
Outdo (7)
Share transport (3-4)
Small plant spray (5)
NOVEMBER 1
MANSFIELD HIGH COUNTRY FESTIVAL OPENING NIGHT
REGULAR EVENTS:
CWA Monthly meetings: 3rd Sunday afternoon, 2pm each month.
CWA Craft Days: 1st and 3rd Wednesdays 10am, and 2nd Wednesdays 6pm, each month.
CWA Op shop open: most days from 10am.
Family History Group at Mansfield Library. 3pm every 4th Thursday of the month.
High Country Poets meet at the Mansfield Library on the 3rd Friday of the month at 1:30 pm. Members of the public all welcome to come and listen / or share their poetic ramblings.
Justice of the Peace Services – Every Thursday, Mansfield Police Station. 10am to 1pm for witnessing and signing of documents.
Lima South Old Time Dance: At Lima South Hall the second Sunday of each month between 1pm and 5pm. Entry $10. Music provided by The Ramblers. Please bring a plate of afternoon tea to share. All welcome. Contact: 0425868277.
Mansfield Croquet Club – Monday and Wednesday mornings from 9am till 12 noon, Lord‘s Reserve, Cnr Victoria and Apollo Streets. Playing equipment available, $2 per session.
Mansfield Farmers’ Markets - fourth Saturday of the month (February to December), 8.30am to 1pm at the median strip between the Post Office and the Delatite Hotel.
NOVEMBER 5
THE MANSFIELD DISTRICT RACING CLUB HOSTS A MELBOURNE CUP DAY MEETING, KNOWN AS “THE TOWN’S PARTY”
NOVEMBER 1: Mansfield Hospital
Auxiliary’s Annual Art Exhibition. Opening Night Friday 1st Nov 5.30 – 7.30pm. Tickets available online, Wallaby Ritz or at the door - cost $30. Art Show is open on Saturday / Sunday / Monday - $2 entry.
NOVEMBER 1: Mansfield High Country Festival Opening Night. Mansfield’s High St Median Strip transforms into a vibrant hub of food vans offering local and Melbourne cuisine, alongside carnival rides, kids’ shows, and live music. The FReeZA Rock Out stage will feature performances, while the evening’s torchlight parade honors emergency service heroes. The celebration concludes with a spectacular fireworks display at the Mansfield Football Oval.
NOVEMBER 2: Monster Book Bash at the Little Shop of Good Reads, just off Highett Street. Open from 8am to 3pm. Pop in and look through the shelves for that special book at that special cheap price. Queries Deb Westphalen 0439 961 143.
NOVEMBER 2: Mansfield Motor Group Grand Parade. The Mansfield Motor Group Grand Parade, a highlight of
NOVEMBER 16
MANSFIELD SHOW AT THE SHOWGROUNDS
the High Country Festival, showcases decorated bikes, cars, floats, and community groups along High Street. The 2024 theme, “Mansfield Mosaic,” celebrates the elements that make Mansfield a great place to live and play, with prizes awarded for the best entries.
NOVEMBER 4: No U3A meeting.
NOVEMBER 5: The Mansfield District Racing Club hosts a Melbourne Cup Day meeting, known as “The Town’s Party”. 11AM. For more information, including ticketing and event details, visit https:// country.racing.com/mansfield/calendar/ melbourne-cup-day
NOVEMBER 7: Friends of the Great Victorian Rail Trail (GVRT) general meeting at Up2Us Landcare office, 3:00pm. A community group working towards the development and promotion of the rail trail to increase its economic benefit to the local community. All welcome.
NOVEMBER 13: Retired police luncheon, 12PM at Mansfield Golf Club. For more information call Kevin Jacobs 0427 321 185.
NOVEMBER 16: Mansfield Show at the showgrounds. Come along for horse
events, animal nurseries, fleece, craft, and floriculture competitions, machinery displays, carnival rides, showbags, and more! The theme for this year’s show is Dogs at Work and Play. Bar and food vendors will be on-site, enjoy the great country hospitality.
NOVEMBER 17: From 11am to 3pm visit a Magical Merinda Garden hosted by the Mansfield Garden Club in support of Mansfield Autism Statewide Services (MASS), with funds raised going towards landscaping at their facility on Ogilvies Road. $20 entry includes lucky ticket for $100 Bunnings Gift Card. For more details about the open garden day or Mansfield Garden Club, email mansfieldgardenclub@gmail.com or phone 0438 648 372.
NOVEMBER 18: U3A Meeting at Mansfield Library (enter by back door) 10:00am for morning tea. Dorothy will present UNIT 10: ‘And a Few More!’ For details call Trish, 0437 357 829.
NOVEMBER 23: Goughs Bay Festival, 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM, Goughs Bay Boat Ramp Foreshore. More details to come and save the date!
Monday Mingle – Every Monday – organised by the Bonnie Doon Community Centre – chat and make new friends – new theme each week. BYO ideas for activities – all ages and abilities
Mansfield support group for carers and people with special needs – morning coffee, third Tuesday of the month, 9.30am at MACE Community Shed Early St, Mansfield. Ph 0409 751 593.
Mansfield Let’s Talk - Coffee & Chat every third Wednesday of the month from 10am to 12pm at the Delatite Hotel. All welcome, No bookings required.
Mansfield Let’s Talk - Chill & Chat every second Tuesday of the month from 6.30pm to 8.30pm at Bowser Bean (BP) dining lounge 145 Mt. Buller Rd. For further info/enquiries email: mansfieldletstalk@ gmail.com
Mansfield Uniting Church - Highett Street Sunday services, 9.30am. All welcome. Ph 0417 103 813
Men‘s Probus meetings are held every 2nd Wednesday for monthly meetings, and then activities/outings are held on the last Wednesday of each month – or as organised.
Outdoor Provedore, producers market, 8.30am to 12.30pm on the High Street median strip, opposite the CWA (third Saturday of every month).
Out’n’About social group meets for lunch on the second Monday of the month at The Delatite Hotel at 11:30am.
Preschool story time at Mansfield Library. Stories, songs and craft. Every 1st and 3rd Friday of the month 10.30am. Ph 5775 8621
Rotary meet the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month at the Delatite Hotel. 6.30 for a 7pm start.
Rural Australians for Refugees (RAR) meet every fourth Monday of the month at 6pm at the Uniting Church Hall.
Scrabble Club for all levels meets at 10am every Wednesday at Mansfield Library. Ph 5775 8621
St John’s Anglican Church - meditation every Friday at 12 noon for a quiet half hour to restore your peace. Ph Christine 0412 825 324
Tolmie Uniting Church - Tolmie Sportsground, 3rd Sunday of the month. Service at 2pm. All welcome.
U3A meetings are held on 1st and 3rd Mondays of each month at 10am at the Library.
ENGIE breaks ground on the largest solar farm under construction in Victoria
WORKS have begun on what is set to be Victoria’s largest solar farm to date in Goorambat East.
Victorian Minister for Climate Action, Energy and Resources and State Electricity Commission, Lily D’Ambrosio, joined ENGIE ANZ Executives and team members for a sodturning ceremony at ENGIE’s 250 MW Goorambat East Solar Farm project.
ENGIE Australia’s managing director of renewables, Laura Caspari, said construction of the project, near Goorambat and Benalla, is proceeding as planned and will make an important contribution to ENGIE’s renewable energy ambitions in one of its key foothold states.
“We expect construction and commissioning of Goorambat East Solar Farm to be finished in 2026, helping to advance our goal of delivering 3 GW of renewable energy in Australia by 2030,” said Ms Caspari.
The Goorambat East project will create approximately 250 new jobs during construction, represents significant new private investment in regional Victoria, and will help to meet the state’s renewable energy targets.
Once completed, the solar farm will generate enough electricity at maximum capacity to
ADDRESSING THE ROOM: Minister for Climate Action, Energy and Resources and State Electricity Commission, the Hon. Lily D’Ambrosio spoke at the event.
CEREMONY: The official sod turning at the Goorambat facility took place on Thursday October 24, with a large group of industry stakeholders and government representatives in attendance.
◀ WORK TO BEGIN: Responsible for the official turning of the sod were (from left) construction contractor Bouygues CEO Seved Robin, ENGIE’s Managing Director of Renewables Laura Caspari, Victorian Minister for Climate Action, Energy and Resources and State Electricity Commission, the Hon. Lily D’Ambrosio, ENGIE’s CEO Rik de Buyserie and Fernando Alvez, Equans Solar and Storage Senior Business Development Manager.
GOORAMBAT is a tiny town of 297, famous for its painted silos.
The Goorambat East Solar Farm is located about 500 meters east of the town of Goorambat and 12 kilometres north of Benalla, in between Shepparton and Wangaratta.
It falls in the electorate of Euroa and whilst local member Annabelle Cleeland remains cautious about this project and its potential impact on the local landscape, she did praise project facilitators on their community engagement and having gone about delivering the solar facility the “right way”.
“Compared to what we have seen with other renewable energy projects in the region, this particular facility has brought considerably less concern from local residents,” she said.
“We know what can be achieved when we get the transition to renewables right, where communities are involved and benefit from the change.
“With this project, we have seen a community fund established, jobs created, arrangements made with property owners, public drop-in sessions held, and energy rebates provided to neighbouring properties.”
power the equivalent of 105,000
average Victorian homes.
“Goorambat East is an optimal project with an excellent solar resource and access to existing transmission infrastructure – it also has a great network of near neighbours and community members that we’ve been working with.
“We look forward to being a part of this community and
HIGH VIS: The sod turning ceremony for ENGIE’s Goorambat East Solar Farm project, with from left, ENGIE’s Managing Director of Renewables Laura Caspari, construction contractor Bouygues CEO Seved Robin, ENGIE’s CEO Rik de Buyserie, Equans Solar and Storage Senior Business Development Manager Fernando Alvez (partially behind Rik) and Victorian Energy Minister the Hon. Lily D’Ambrosio.
making meaningful contributions at every stage of this project,” said Ms Caspari.
ENGIE has committed to a community benefit fund of $75,000 per year for the life of the project, as well as up to $1,000 in annual electricity rebates offered to eligible near neighbours of the project, once it starts to generate electricity.
“ENGIE has been operating in Victoria since 1996 and today has a significant retail presence, an important rehabilitation project and 150MW/ 150MWh battery at Hazelwood, and a pipeline of renewable energy developments.
“It will be a gratifying, fullcircle moment to build on our legacy and operate clean energy assets here,” said Ms. Caspari.
To further support the Goorambat community, ENGIE is also contributing up to $50,000 towards the new 5G mobile phone and data tower, which is currently under construction.
The solar farm will connect to a newly built Goorambat East Terminal Station, to be located alongside the existing single circuit 220kV transmission line route between Shepparton Terminal Station and Dederang Terminal Station and to be operated and maintained by AusNet, pursuant to connection agreements reached with the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO).
PROJECT DELIVERY: Staff from the ENGIE ANZ Renewable Energy Business Unit and other senior staff who have worked on the Goorambat East Solar Farm, with construction contractor Bouygues CEO Seved Robin on the far left in the orange Hi-Viz vest.
Bigger and better: Yea show set for November return
By ELAINE WHITE, Yea Show Committee
THE Yea Show is going against the trend for rural agricultural shows by growing bigger and better every year.
The Show’s Motto “Country Excellence” proudly showcases all that is the best in the farming community, including the skills around the homestead in cooking, crafts and horticulture.
The Central Victorian Axemen’s Association will once again run a Championship Woodchop at the Yea Show.
The Show committee are delighted to have the Royal Australian Navy Rock Band entertaining you at the Yea Show.
They will ‘rock you’ at 11am and 2pm.
Don’t miss this once-in-alifetime event!
Don’t miss the new Virtual Reality Gaming with 10 headsets available and hundreds of games to choose from.
Fun for all ages.
The ever-popular Dog High Jump, the Young Farmers Challenge, Comic Characters roaming the ground for the little ones to get a hug or have a photo taken, find the baby animals scattered throughout the showgrounds for another photo opportunity and there’s lots more to entertain you!
Two of the farming highlights are the prestigious Yea Cattle Show featuring not only our local stud champions but cattle coming in from all over Victoria and Southern NSW.
For many years the Yea Cattle Show has been the biggest showing of cattle outside the Melbourne Royal.
It includes the highly contested Heifer Challenge on the Friday evening followed on Show Day by the stud beef cattle including Stud Cattle Junior Judges and
Stud Cattle Junior Parader challenges and a strong Vealer Competition.
The Northern Region Sheep Yard Dog Association showcases these highly trained and intelligent working dogs and finishes with the final of “The Yea Cup” Challenge which incorporates winners from four local shows, Seymour, Euroa, Alexandra and Yea.
Competitors come from all over Victoria and Southern NSW for this prestigious award.
The Fleece section will
incorporate sheep shearing demonstrations and local spinners will be happy to showcase their age-old craft
An excellent and comprehensive 6-Ring Horse program on the Arena presents a spectacular display of expertly groomed and trained horses and horsemanship.
Dairy Goats and Poultry are popular events also.
Static displays and related products plus market stalls provide extra interest.
A variety of foods available including Devonshire teas in the Pavilion, chil-
while you admire the entries and take home a delicious preserve or two.
dren’s show rides, baby animals on display throughout the showgrounds, children’s pet show, and demonstrations by our local Line Dancers all provide entertainment throughout the day.
New and enthusiastic stewards in the Pavilion sections have seen massive changes in location, variety and added interest.
In Cookery, prominent business leaders in Yea enthusiastically vie in the Men’s Chocolate Cake baking challenge.
You can enjoy a cuppa
The horticulture section always has a beautiful display of flowers and vegetables and now encompasses displays by the local pottery and garden clubs.
The newly renovated Pavilion at the Showgrounds will beautifully display the incredible and exquisite sewing, knitting, and many other handcrafts which are always a highlight of the Show.
The 107th Yea Show will be held on Saturday November 23, 2024.
Family ticket (2 adults, 2 children) $35, Adults $17, Seniors/Concession $12, Secondary Students $5, Under 12 free.
FAMOUS: CWA ladies will be hard at work making their famous scones for the Devonshire Teas.
YOUNGSTERS: Young Cattle judges and paradors.
ntrie
HIGH JUMP: Action shot of the dog high jump winner.
SHEDS
2025
AUSTRALIA DAY AWARDS – NOMINATIONS OPEN
Mansfield Shire Council is calling for nominations from organisations and individuals in the following categories:
•Citizen of the Year
•Senior Citizen of the Year
•Community Event of the Year
•Young Citizen of the Year
•Community Group or Organisation
These awards provide all Shire residents with the opportunity to pay tribute to our outstanding local achievers.
Nomination forms can be obtained via the QR code, from Council’s website www.mansfield.vic.gov.au/CitizenAwards, by contacting Council’s EA Mayor & CEO, Lisa Fricke, on 5775 8516 or can be collected from the Library and the Municipal office at 33 Highett Street, Mansfield. Nominations close 5.00pm on Monday 18 November 2024.
Australian Citizenship Mansfield Shire is proposing to hold a Citizenship Ceremony on Australia Day 2024. If you would like to become an Australian Citizen, please contact the Citizenship information line on 131 880 or go to www.citizenship.gov.au
Get your names in the RADIO MANSFIELD and MANSFIELD COURIER birthday book.
Win Bertalli’s birthday goodies on Radio Mansfield 99.7 FM’s “Anything Goes” Birthday Wheel Thursdays from 2-4pm
This week’s winner is: TERRY MASSEY
To enter call Radio Mansfield on 5775 2333
MANSFIELD
KINDERGARTEN
Notice of Annual General Meeting
Mansfield Kindergarten Incorporated
Will be held on December 5, 2024 at 7pm at Mansfield Golf Club
All welcome
To RSVP, please call 5775 2445 by November 27, 2024 Mansfield Committee of Management
Mansfield Junior Football ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Mansfield Junior Football Club AGM
Wednesday, November 13, 2024. 6pm at the Mansfield Football Club Social Rooms All positions open.
EMAIL BY PHONE 5723 0101
NOTICE OF INTENT TO LICENCE LAND
In accordance with Council’s community engagement policy and under section 115 of the Local Government Act 2020, Mansfield Shire Council informs the community that it intends to license land as follows:
To licence 10 square metres in the Shire Depot yard at 141 Lakins Road, Mansfield to MKSolutions for a period of 7 years for an electronic vehicle (EV) charging station. For further information, please contact Tasman Clingan, Manager Field Services via email at tas.clingan@mansfield.vic.gov.au or phone at 03 5775 8555.
Kirsten Alexander
Chief Executive Officer
20 MALCOLM STREET
MANSFIELD
November 2 and 3
8am-2pm
Bric-a-brac (kitchen, bar collectables), furniture, books, HUGE COLLECTION!
AGM & Website Launch
Tuesday November 26, 2024
5.30pm for 6pm Delatite Hotel Committee Nomination forms artsmansfield.com.au
RSVP Event page artscouncilmansfield @gmail.com
MANSFIELD & DISTRICT WELFARE GROUP INC
AGM
Wednesday November 20, 2024 at 5pm Mansfield District Hospital Board Room, Highett Street MANSFIELD RSVP mdwginc@gmail.com
HUGE
GARAGE SALE
Something for everyone! Garden, bric-a-brac, collectables, vintage 66 Highton Lane, Mansfield 8am-3pm
Saturday and Sunday, November 2 and 3
Shed and Garage Sale
November 2 and 3 8am-4pm No early birds
See Facebook page for Strathbogie Flavours photos and list of items 4206 Midland Highway, Barjarg Les 0407 529 417 73 Hewsons Road, Barjarg Don 0418 332 361 4106 Midland Highway, Barjarg Dijana 0421 136 192
Freebies available and items for parts
Are you interested in driving positive change and collaborating with like-minded individuals in a dynamic, community based aged care organisation?
This role is suited to dedicated individuals looking to a make a difference in a well-established aged care organisation. A background with a strong focus on service delivery in a consumer-centred environment would also be advantageous.
Why Join Us? As a Board Director of Cooinda, you will play a crucial role in guiding the organisation’s strategic direction and ensuring we continue to provide exceptional services for older people.
About Cooinda: We are a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to enhancing the lives of people in our region by providing innovative, individualised care that reflects Benalla’s community life and individual needs.
Cooinda was established in 1969 by a small group of community members and volunteers as a secure place where older people could live. Today Cooinda provides a home and award-winning excellence in person centred care for up to 82 older people in a state-of-the-art facility.
Cooinda also provides community care services including domestic assistance, personal care, home care packages and short-term restorative care along with 67 on-site, independent retirement living villas offering traditional and modern living.
To register your interest please contact Alanna Burnell, Human Resources Coordinator on (03) 5761 3325 or alannaburnell@cooinda.org.au and a current Board member will contact you to discuss the position.
EMPLOYMENT
| WORK WITH US |
Join Mansfield Community Cubby House as an EARLY CHILDHOOD TEACHER
An exciting opportunity exists to join our team providing an integrated 3-year-old Kindergarten Program in 2025.
Join Mansfield’s only not-for-profit childcare facility in providing the highest quality care to children in our district. We are a fun and vibrant team of professionals dedicated to remaining current in our knowledge and skills of Early Childhood Education and providing learning experiences through play that reflect the interests of all children.
The 3-year-old Kindergarten program runs on a Tuesday and Wednesday 8.30am–4.30pm during the Victorian School term.You will reap the benefits of a day that suits you for off-the-floor planning and administrative time.
If you have a Bachelors Degree in Early Childhood Teaching or equivalent qualification, please email your cover letter and resume in confidence to:
Carly Vagala Early Childhood Director cubby@mace.vic.edu.au
The Opportunity: An opportunity has arisen for a voluntary Board Director to join our highly experienced, skills-based Board of Directors for a 3-year term.
2015 HINO
2015 HINO, 187,000 km’s, 12/24 Rego (1SM6CX) 3.5 TONNE, DIESEL MOTOR, TUCKAWAY TAILGATE VERY GOOD CONDITION, COMES WITH RWC
SHED find, vintage Chrysler Regal Lebaron ’78, 4.3 ltres, $10,000, looking for offers, VIN: CLBH4IV105369. Ph 0459 899 884.
& CAMPERS FORD FALCON FATURA 2003 BA, engine number JGSW3J29778, DLPG sedan, major KMs driven by one careful lady, $4k of receipts showing money spent on car at Premier Panels, 12 months registration plus roadworthy certificate included, car mechanically drives like new, no burning oil, asking $8000 ONO. Ph 03 5721 3948.
MERCEDES Sprinter campervan, ver y good condition, reg till April ’25, can get roadworthy, VIN: WDF9036622A908307, $15,000 ono. Ph 0459 899 884.
CHOW, Jackson. 23/10/1947 - 24/10/2024
Passed away peacefully at Buckland House Mansfield.
Much loved husband of 57 years to Wendy. Loved and loving father of Nim, Lee, Ky and Jo. Respected father-in-law of Paul, Rob and Mark.
Treasured grandfather to Madi, Nathan, Kiana, Charli and Lexi. Always loved and will always be remembered, in our hearts forever.
Thank you to all the wonderful staff at Buckland House for your tolerance and compassion.
“It could be worse”
As per Jackson’s wishes, no funeral service to be held.
N.J. TODD
Member AFDA
BENALLA (03) 5762 2461 EUROA 1800 352 425
DOWELL, Donald.
Passed away peacefully at Northeast Health, Wangaratta on October 22, 2024. Aged 81 years.
Loved and loving husband of Lyn – married 55 years.
Loved and adored father and father-in law of Mandy and Nick (Hay), Andrew (dec), Daniel and Larinda, Adrian and Jaime.
Treasured Poppy Don of Emma, Grace, Sophie and Rylee. ‘Forever in our hearts’
Delatite defeated by Rovers United Bruck
By MARK O’LOUGHLAN
Delatite CC 104 lost to Rovers United Bruck 134
ANOTHER glorious day at Lord’s reserve saw Delatite take on Rovers United Bruck with the visitors winning the toss and batting first.
Delatite openers Joe Kelleher and Nick Hoskin started well, keeping the scoring to a minimum and it was Hoskin who got the early breakthrough.
Lochie Pymer bowled an excellent spell without a lot of luck, managing to take another wicket.
Max O’Loughlan came on before drinks and continued on his wicket taking ways, removing three Rovers batsmen in pretty quick succession.
Skipper Kelleher was able to put the brakes on the Rovers innings by snagging two right after drinks, with Orlando Miller cleaning up the tail with two of his own.
The Delatite boys were confident of chasing Rover’s total of 134.
The Delatite run chase started positively, with Mitch Copey continuing his fine form with the bat making 19 and Kane Hoskin contributing 18 before a middle order collapse saw the team struggling at 7/60.
Nick Hoskin (18) and Max O’Loughlan (13no) battled hard to keep Delatite in the game, but it was not quite enough, eventually falling 30 runs short.
The team is improving week to week and there are exciting times ahead, keep trying hard boys.
UNDER 16’S
Delatite CC 6/45 lost to Rovers United Bruck CC 2/130
UP against another really strong side, the Delatite team battled hard in the field but wickets were hard to come by.
Cooper Martin removed one of the openers early on, but it was difficult from then on.
Nixen Martin came on late to take the other wicket, helped by a good catch from Finn Stokes. The run chase started poorly, with the top three batsmen all making ducks. Nick Hoskin battled hard to make 18, playing some very nice pull shots.
The boys dug in and did not let Rovers bowl them out, showing lots of fight.
DOWELL
A memorial service to celebrate the life of Mr Donald Dowell will be held at the N J Todd Funeral Home – ‘Feehan Chapel’ on Monday, November 11, 2024 commencing at 11.30am.
A livestream of the service will be available, please go to the N J Todd website and follow the livestream/recording link.
N.J. TODD
Member AFDA
BENALLA (03) 5762 2461
EUROA 1800 352 425
Matt Storer lining up a
Milawa claim win over Merton
By ROHAN BERRIMAN
including three sixes. Storer with 32 was Merton’s next best scorer.
D. Witham with 3/43 and keeper N DeVries with four catches were the top performers for the visitors.
MERTON cricket hosted top side Milawa on Saturday with the visitors taking victory in an entertaining match which went down to the wire in the second last over.
Milawa won the toss and sent Merton in with the visitors on top early with the wicket of the dangerous Luke Benton for zero.
Jai Lerch-Mackinnon and Matt Storer both scored runs at will; Lerch-Mackinnon was particularly damaging smashing 47 in quick time
Milawa started strong punishing any loose bowling and looked like cruising to victory.
However some tight bowling and good catching saw wickets fall in quick succession, with Matt Storer taking 2/18 and son Adam 2/12.
This saw the game become a real contest with Milawa falling to 7/113 a line ball
stumping that went in the batsman’s favour in the last five overs added to the excitement of the match however the young Merton side probably didn’t have quite enough runs to get over the line , with Milawa taking victory in the 34th over.
J Papworth 42 and R Corsini 36 were the top scorers. The young brigade from H Berriman, N Whittall and H Craddock the other wicket takers.
All sides have the bye over the long weekend then Merton host Delatite at the MCG on November 9.
TIME FOR A WICKET: (from left) Adam Storer, Harry Cradock and Vice Captain Luke Berriman.
WICKET KEEPING: Luke Berriman standing tall.
STRONG BATTING:
great swing. PHOTOS: Supplied
Perfect nights for competition
By RHONDA CARPENTER, JANE SWINBURNE and NATALIE BERGSMA
TUESDAY night tennis
players enjoyed perfect conditions again for their second round.
It was warm, with not a breath of wind, and the courts were freshly groomed thanks to Bob Carpenter.
Karyn Fraser again welcomed the newcomers and players were encouraged to check the draw to use the bye team players for their replacements.
In the matchup between Crockett and Hutchison it was a night for backhands and comebacks.
After leading in every set Karyn Fraser lost all three and although Max Ree Goodings was a good fill in for Hutchison, Crockett, his jeans and his team were too strong and had their first win.
Yencken had another win thanks to the fine form of Dan Robertson.
His partners in each set almost only had to get their serve in or a serve back for him to then win enough points, despite Greg McDermott, Glenn Fox, Sarah Fox and Keira McDonagh hitting well.
Coach Delany enjoyed his night after a hiatus from competitive tennis for the last couple of decades and Mark Poole served superbly.
Without Dan the other matchups were more even, and all went McDonagh’s way, but luckily Yencken had enough games to take the points.
For the Murray versus Aldous contest emergency players were needed by both
teams.
Jason Blake, Dan Dundas and Kathryn Murray included Andrew Downey into their mix.
Michael Whytcross and Fiona Lindsay brought in Jaden Findlay and Max O’Loughlan and after the shared opening sets Aldous was up by one game.
The next pairs were tighter, but Murray took both, one in a lengthy tiebreaker 7-3.
Fully warmed up, or exhausted, depending on which side of the net you were on, Murray blitzed the final sets to take the match.
Tuesday Ladder: Murray 11, Yencken 9. Blackall 7.5, McDonagh 6.5, Crockett 6, Hutchison 6, O’Loughlan 5.5, Aldous 4.5
Wednesday night
By JANE SWINBURNE
IT was a challenging night for Burnt Orange as they faced off against Brown Sugar.
Courtney O’Loughlan was sidelined with a leg injury during her first set with Anna Francis. Fortunately, young gun Max O’Loughlan stepped in to ensure Burnt Orange could continue for the evening. Meanwhile, Warren Medcalf returned to the game after a lengthy break from tennis.
Brown Sugar’s team of Nick Ferguson, Kim Marsden, Julie Aldous and Mick Davis proved too good for the opposition and won the match, six sets to zero.
Out of the Blue faced a closely contested match against Crimson Souls.
Kelly Purcell played in summer competition for the first time and performed admirably.
Chris Hewlett impressed throughout the night, while Matty Lowe delivered strong serves in each set.
Steph Herridge was in excellent form, playing a solid and enjoyable game as always.
Crimson Souls benefited from Simon Young’s powerful serves and determination all night long.
Helen Knight made a successful return to summer competition; Danny would be proud.
There were some noise complaints during the final set, likely due to the fun being had on court three, which may have distracted Simon Young and Suzie Wellborne in the final tiebreak.
Both teams won three sets, but Out of the Blue clinched the night by winning one more game.
Most teams had wrapped up for the evening and departed, but as the temperature dropped and the wind picked up, True Colours and Red Roses continued their intense competition on the courts.
Kate Les and Alice Kilpatrick fought fiercely in two tie breaks against each other, with Kate emerging victorious in both.
Amy Les participated in her first ever three sets and triumphed in each one, with her proud Mum and Dad playing by her side.
Emma Kay and Robert Williams secured one set against Peter Scales and Rob Les however despite the other closely contested games, True Colours revealed their
true strengths and secured the points for the night, five sets to one.
Wednesday Ladder: Brown Sugar 14, Out of the Blue 10, Burnt Orange 7, True Colours 6, Crimson Souls 3, Red Roses 2
Thursday night
By NATALIE BERGSMA
IT was a cool start to round two of the Thursday night summer comp, with a drop in temperature, the warmups were certainly required.
The crisp evening was the perfect platform for some great tennis.
The spotlight was on the matchup between Let it Be - comprising Natalie Bergsma, Tim Vardy, Agnes Kay, and Jodie Morrow - and Come Together, which featured Jenny Bell filling in alongside Rhonda Carpenter, Bob Carpenter, and Kassy Thomas.
The highlight of the night came during the final match, where Natalie and Tim faced off against Jenny and Rhonda.
The court was alive with thrilling rallies and impressive shots, showcasing some of the best tennis of the night.
Natalie and Tim were able to secure a much-needed win for their team.
This wasn’t enough to secure an overall victory as with decisive display of skill, Come Together claimed a convincing victory, finishing the night with 6/32 match points to Let it Be’s 1/13.
Jenny Bell’s powerful serve proved to be a game-changer, dominat-
ing throughout the evening and leaving her opponents scrambling.
Special mention also to Bob Carpentar who only dropped one game in his three sets, slicing up the opposition literally with his impossible to return slice shots.
It was a dominant display by Come Together who although only two weeks have been played, are already proving to be the benchmark team.
In another thrilling match of the Thursday night tennis competition, Night Fever faced off against Smooth Operators in a closely contested showdown.
Matt Sly stepped in as a substitute, for Night Fever’s Ben Nally, Chelsea Dean, and Courtney Purcell, while Smooth Operators welcomed Suzie Wellborne to join Arthur Gerrans, Brendan Purcell, and Bec Studds.
The match was a nailbiter, with close score lines all night. Night Fever edged out their opponents with a total of 29 games won compared to Smooth Operators’ 26. This hard-fought battle resulted in Night Fever taking home four match points, while Smooth Operators earned a respectable three points.
The excitement continued on courts five and six with a riveting match between Let’s Dance and Changes.
The team of Let’s Dance featured Robert Williams and Loretta Armitage as fill ins joining Michael McCormack and Zoe Richards, while Changes welcomed Rachel Parsons and Laura Gosney to fill in for Jo
O’Brien and Jason O’Brien, alongside Liza Karras and Les Kerr.
The match opened with a thrilling first round where Michael and Zoe battled fiercely against Liza and Rachel in a nail-biting tiebreaker, ultimately falling short with a tiebreak game score of nine to seven. Despite this setback, Let’s Dance showcased their resilience and talent throughout the night enabling them to emerge victorious, winning a total of 27 games compared to Changes’ 24.
This hard-fought contest resulted in Let’s Dance taking home four match points, while Changes secured three.
The evening was filled with exciting rallies and competitive spirit, making for a great display of tennis. The camaraderie and sportsmanship shone through all night, promising a fun filled season ahead.
Special thanks to all the fill ins tonight.
Thursday Ladder: Come Together 12, Changes eight, Let it Be seven, Night Fever six, Let’s Dance five, Smooth Operators four.
Juniors
By JO O’BRIEN
THE sun was out for a beautiful morning of Junior Tennis this week.
Congratulations to our section winners Tristan Fox, Justine Demoor, Jack Stevenson, Abbie Kayssar, Lucas De Saints, Ethan Jones and Patrick Delany. There will be no Junior Tennis this weekend due to the Melbourne Cup Weekend.
COME TOGETHER: Kassy Thomas, Rhonda Carpenter, Bob Carpenter, and Jenny Bell. PHOTO: Natalie Bergsma
LET IT BE: Tim Vardy, Jodie Morrow, Agnes Kay and Natalie Bergsma. PHOTO: Rhonda Carpenter
HAPPY HITTING: (from left) Geoff Hutchison, Karyn Fraser, Rohan West and Tony Canterbury. PHOTO: Anna Speirs
GOOD GAME: (from left) Liam Delany, Mark Poole, Sarah Fox and Keira McDonagh. PHOTO: Anna Speirs
TUESDAY NIGHT: (from left) Al Crockett, Alex Macphee, Shane Hutchinson and Max Ree Goodings. PHOTO: Anna Speirs
Mansfield swimmers shine in Melbourne and Albury
By ALLI WALKER
IT was a weekend of backto-back swim meets for our Mansfield swimmers heading both to Melbourne and Albury for some racing.
Saturday saw four of our eight to eleven year old swimmers head to MSAC alongside Seymour Sharks Swim Club and Kilmore Swim Club as they repre-
sented Hume and Upper Goulburn District at the Country Junior District competition.
As a combined team of 16 swimmers they raced in individual events as well as relays against districts from all over country Victoria.
With some excellent results across the board, supported by team manager Briana Seaton and coach
Amelie Walker, our Mansfield contingent did a fabulous job.
Well done to Vivian Knight (nine), Simon Zuzaniak (10), Levi Seaton (11) and Harvey Knight (11).
Sunday saw four swimmers driving up the Hume to Albury to take part in the Albury Swim Club Open meet.
Racing in a 50m outdoor
Women dominate in the XC race
By DAMIAN GRUNDY
LOTS and lots and lots of competitors.
And an evening dominated by our female competitors. Congratulations to Miranda Farrall on her first win at her second race.
Winners are grinners.
In second place Arial Stava and third was Serena (soon to be) Vivash.
Dan Friday snuck into fourth… great to see you back Dan.
Fifth was Bruce Halket.
Bruce was also the fastest on the night knocking off the race at a very respect-
able 19.6 kilometre per hour average speed. Congratulations Bruce, without question one of the clubs most dedicated and deserving competitors.
Thanks to our timekeepers on the night Jason Parker and Nicole Hoebergen. The next XC race night will be the week after Melbourne Cup Day Tuesday November 12th. And I’ve had an idea. It is a bit of a process preparing for the XC race nights.
A course has to be decided upon and then it needs to be mapped on STRAVA to get the distance in order to sort
out the handicaps.
So, for the rest of the season, on the Sunday morning before the XC races I will be at Rifle Butts at 9am to do this reconnaissance.
Please feel free to join me for the ride, have some input into the race lap for the coming race and even the race format.
Also learn the lap for the race (a very useful advantage).
Feel free to ask me for some coaching tips.
Even if I don’t know, I will always have an opinion.
But seriously I am a qualified coach.
I look forward to seeing you there.
pool, the sunshine and blue skies made for the perfect setting.
Our small team tackled some new events alongside some favourites, and it was an opportunity to enjoy swimming fast against some high-level swimmers.
Our youngest club member, Clara Creighton (7) cracked a massive personal best swim in the 50 metre
breastroke, knocking 15 seconds off her time and taking home a bronze medal in the under eights. This feat was matched only by older sister Rowena (12) dropping 12 seconds from her 200 metre freestyle and a gold medal in the 12U 50 metre backstroke – obviously the day for these girls.
Edward Creighton (10)
brought home four medals across his races with some new PBs whilst relative newcomer to racing Paris Hopwood (11) dipped her toe into some new events and pulled off a personal best for her 50 metre free.
Team Mansfield is looking forward to our pool opening in just a few weeks so that squad training can begin in earnest.
Blue team celebrates win at Mansfield’s first U12 derby
By ANDREW COOK
OUR first ever Mansfield U12 derby took place last Friday evening at College Park, between our Blue and Gold teams.
Gold won the toss and elected to bat, hoping to make the most of a freshlymown outfield before the sun started setting and temperatures started to drop.
After losing an early wicket, batters Xavier Heaysman, Callum LoganWilliams and Jack Middleton settled and batted out their allotted balls.
Something of a middleorder collapse then took place, with three wickets being shared around by
the Blue bowlers.
Mason Mckenzie and Noah Heaysman soon righted the ship, Heaysman especially showing enthusiasm for scoring, carving out 10 from 14 balls.
Xavier Heaysman and Logan-Williams returned to the crease near the end of the innings to boost the final total, Logan-Williams finishing on an inningshigh of 14 while the junior Heaysman matched his older brother by making 10.
Gold finished on 73, with the loss of five wickets.
Blue’s run chase showed composure and confidence, with the top four batters all retiring after their allotted balls – opener Nixen Martin
finishing on 15 off 15 (with two boundaries), while Max Strong was close behind with 11.
Again some middle-order wobbles set in, with none of the next seven batters scoring more than two runs. However Extras and the strong start helped Blue over the line, reaching the target of 74 with a handful of overs to spare.
Wickets were again shared around; overall the game saw nine individual wicket-takers.
The two teams go their separate ways this Friday, Gold travelling to Benalla to face Yarrawonga Mulwala, while Blue will host Benalla Bushrangers at College Park.
INCREDIBLE RESULTS: Edward Creighton (10) brought home four medals across his races with some new PBs. PHOTO: Fiona Creighton
BRONZE MEDAL WINNER: Clara Creighton cracked a new PB in the 50 metre breastroke and took home the bronze medal in the under eights. PHOTO: Fiona Creighton
ALBURY: (from left) Edward Creighton, Rowena Creighton, Clara Creighton, Paris Hopwood and Hamish Hopwood. PHOTO: Fiona Creighton
MANSFIELD SWIMMERS AT MSAC: (from left) Vivian Knight, Harvey Knight, Levi Seaton and Simon Zuzaniak. PHOTO: Helen Knight
WOMEN ON TOP: Miranda Farrall took out her first win at her second race. (From left) Dan Friday, Ariel Stava, Miranda Farrell, Serena Moring and Bruce Halket. PHOTO: Tim Ross
STRONG BOWLING: Finn Macphee bowls to Mason Mckenzie.
Maiden monthly medal win for Kirsten Scudamore
By MARION MITCHELL
IT can sometimes be a bit hard trying to keep up with all the golf the ladies are playing.
The Summer Pennant competition started on Monday.
This pennant is a friendly competition between Mansfield, Bright, Myrtleford and Jubilee.
We went down to Jubilee at Jubilee and then had a forfeit from Bright on Friday.
On Tuesday we saw success from a couple of our new lady golfers with Ruth Martin having a great 19 points on a countback from in-form Sharon Gysberts.
Andrea Marsden third with 17 and a line ball to Lorraine Wilson, the last of our travel-
lers back from the north.
Diana De Jager, another new golfer had a nearest the pin on 16th.
Wednesday was the Medal of Medals and the Monthly Medal sponsored by Sanae’s Collection.
Sharon Gysberts and Andrea Marsden had a draw for the Medal of Medals so will be in a play-off next Wednesday.
Kirsten Scudamore won her first and hopefully not last Monthly Medal.
It was a large field of 33 ladies so we had two grades.
Kirsten won A Grade with a terrific 69 nett from Andrea Marsden 71 on a countback to Sue Parsons.
Sharon Gysberts won B Grade with 71 from Patsy Smiles 73 on a countback from Marion Sargeant.
Lines balls to Kylie Egan 73, Sam Bailey 73, Sheryl Sargent 75 and Linda Brook 75.
Nearest the pins were Tracey Gravenall, Linda Brook, Donna Sedgman and Sue Parsons.
The putting was won by Sheryl Sargent and Sue Crow.
Of special note was Kylie Egan’s Eagle on 10th.
On Thursday Marg Franke-Williams and Sue Parsons played in the final of the Doris Chambers State final at Eastern Golf Club.
They were very happy to come runners-up in a tough competition.
The same day Sue Crow, Marg Knapp, Susan Kinloch and Patsy Smiles came runners-up in the Wodonga Bowl with Susan Kinloch
runner-up in D Grade and was in the winning small teams event.
Another great representation from the Mansfield ladies.
Sue Parsons is in good form preparing for her golfing trip to New Zealand winning Saturday’s Stableford with 34 points from Sheryl Sargent 33 on a countback to Marion Sargeant.
Line ball to Sam Bailey 31 and Sue Parsons nearest the pin on third.
With only three rounds to go in the Premier League, the Stingers are on top of the ladder with 20 points from TAGM and Wanderers both on 14.
Well done to the ladies producing some great scores.
Good hitting for next week.
A sunny and social week at Mansfield Bowls Club
By MARK BETTANY
MANSFIELD Bowls Club
had excellent weather conditions for the final of the Men’s Championship Triples event, held Sunday October 20.
The victors were John Foots, Noel Jackson and Alan Dobson, defeating Michael Harrison, Mark Bettany and Steve Lewis.
Well done Footsie, Jacko and Dobbo.
Tuesday the pennant team hosted Chiltern with a 56 to 49 win.
George Peterson’s team of Elain Peterson, Chris Laws and Marion Ryan drew 15 all.
Michael Harrison’s team with Mark Bettany, Lyn Holland Irene Fuller were pipped on the last end to go down 21 to 19.
Mick Walsh, Noel Jackson, Jenny Walsh and Yvonne Robinson were neck and neck until the 13th end when they found some turbo
charge and had a great win 31 to 13.
Tuesday home pennant saw Steve Lewis, Brian Siinclair, Gwen Gray and Catherine Johnson (Pink team) defeat The Gold team of Ray Close, Kathleen Bock, Barry Hempenstall and Elva Healey by 10 shots.
A very close match was held between team Lime Graeme Tyers, Ross Parson, Tony Wilkes and Heather Ingpen who were three shots up going into the last end.
The Red team of Carolyn Close, Denis Sharpe, Peter McNeill and Anne Wileman snagged two shots on the last end, going down by only one shot 19 to 18.
Kevin Nikkelson led his Yellow team of Kris Humphrey, Christina Smith and Ray Fraser to a steady win 28 to 13 over team Orange of Domingo Diaz’, Alan Hatcher, Michelle Mios and Glenda Hempenstall. Tony Pridham’s Green
PRIME LOCATION: With warmer temperatures settling in Lake Nillacootie is a prime spot for yellow belly fishing.
team of Glenda Revell, Harry Smith and Renee Prosser had a big day out winning 27 to 8 to team Blue skippered by Alan Dobson with Tom Ingpen, Anne Tilbrook and Ida Rachele.
The greens were busy this week with the Ladies Handicap Pairs kicking off on Thursday.
In the first round Kris
Humphrey and Elaine Peterson were solid with a 13 shot win over Renee Prosser and Jenny Walsh.
Kathleen Bock and Vicki Klein got up by two shots to Anne Tilbrook and Enid Smith.
In the second round
Elaine Peterson and Kris Humphrey were victors once again by three shots to
Anne Wileman and Lyn Holland.
Yvonne Robinson and Lyn Foots got the better of Kath and Vicki by only two shots.
Some excellent tussles which see the final being held next week between Elaine and Kris against Yvonne and Lyn Foots.
For Saturday Pennant Mansfield A3 were at home to our friendly neighbours at Swanpool who it is always great to catch up with.
Mansfield were victors on the day.
Mick Walsh, Ray Robbo, Graeme Smith and Enid Smith won 20 shots up.
George Peterson’s rink of Elaine Peterson, Chris Laws and Marion Ryan got up by 15 shots.
John Foots, Peter Roberts, Steve Lewis and Alan Dobson won their rink by 24 shots and Swanpool beat Michael Harrison’s team with Mark Bettany, Noel Jackon and Syd Revell by only five shots.
The A4 team travelled to Yarrawonga and got off to a good start however couldn’t quite get it over the line.
Ray Close, Mick Hoban, Nikko and Nick Klein only went down by two shots.
Lyn Foots, Jenny Walsh, Lyn Holland and Yvonne Robinson were beaten by eight shots.
Winston Taylor’s team of Rob Kemp, Irene Fuller and Ross Parsons were up against some wiley, tactical competition to be beaten by 15 shots.
Dizzy Tyers team of Rick Nichols, Don Cameron and Vicki Klein had a very close rink all day, winning three shots up.
Welcome once again to our new members for Friday social bowls.
Social bowls is back to 12.30 registration cut off, starting to roll at 1pm. The list is on the board outside the clubrooms so you can put your name down anytime during the week.
YELLOW BELLY FRENZY ON LAKE NILLACOOTIE
LAKE Nillacootie is a prime spot for yellow belly fishing. With the warmer temperatures settling in, conditions are favourable for targeting this species.
The lake’s water level has been relatively stable, providing ample opportunities for anglers to land a catch, especially with the increased fish activity in shallower waters as yellow belly prepare to spawn.
Here’s a rundown of what to expect and some effective tactics for success.
Water Conditions
Currently, Lake Nillacootie’s water clarity is moderate to slightly murky, typical for this time of year. The temperature is warming into the mid-20s (°C), which is ideal for yellow belly, as they become more active and move closer to the shorelines, rocky ledges, and
submerged timber structures where they can find prey.
The depth variation in the lake, from shallow banks to deeper mid-sections, offers a good range of environments for yellow belly, particularly along the edges where they forage for crustaceans and small fish.
Fishing Tactics
Yellow belly are known for their ambush behaviour, and fishing near submerged timber or rocky outcrops tends to yield the best results.
A slow retrieve with soft plastics in natural colors, such as olive or brown, mimics
the lake’s small fish and crustaceans and can effectively entice a bite.
Spinnerbaits are also a good option, especially those with a bit of flash, like chartreuse or gold colors.
Cast close to structure, let the lure sink, and retrieve at a slow, steady pace to draw in the fish.
For bait anglers, live yabbies and worms remain top choices.
These should be rigged with a small hook and weighted just enough to keep them close to the lakebed.
It’s best to position bait setups near submerged logs or among the lake’s rocky areas where yellowbelly are likely to hunt.
Time of Day and Weather
Morning and late afternoon are proving to be peak times, as the yellow belly are more
actively feeding.
Days with overcast skies tend to enhance activity as well, as yellow belly feel more comfortable in reduced light. However, early risers can also have success around sunrise, particularly if the water surface is calm.
Gear Recommendations
A medium-weight rod with a sensitive tip, matched with a 6-10lb line, is ideal for yellow belly.
This setup offers a good balance of strength and sensitivity to feel the oftensubtle bite of yellow belly, particularly when using soft plastics.
Overall, Lake Nillacootie is a reliable spot for yellow belly fishing this season.
With stable weather and the right approach, anglers should experience satisfying success.
MONTHLY MEDAL WINNER: Kirsten Scudamore won her first monthly medal and A grade with a terrific 69 nett. PHOTO: Supplied
MEN’S CHAMPIONSHIP TRIPLES WINNERS: (from left) John Foots, Noel Jackson and Alan Dobson. PHOTO: Supplied
A week of comebacks
By BRUCE HALKET
IT was a week of comebacks for the Mansfield Mt Buller Cycling Club’s third road race of the season on a clockwise course around the Barwite Loop on Thursday October 24.
But with a stiff southerly blowing, it was also likely to be a night for the back markers.
First away was the Limit group of Craig Wilson, Dave Jagger and the first of our comeback kids, Di Condie, off 11 minutes.
A minute later, next to start was Steve Curnow and Adam Baker; another minute later came Janine Appleton, Tim Ross, Jason Parker and winner of the last three races (including the last one of last season, Ian Conrick; at seven was Jarrod Appleton, Adrian Dowd and the second Comeback Kid, David MacDonald of Tolmie.
David, from Tolmie, joined the ATC Gravel Expo ride last Sunday and decided on a comeback to road racing eight years after his last.
Darren Baker and Ryder Chadd were the four minute
group; then came the 2.30 group of Fletcher Christensen, Bruce Halket, Carl Simmons and James Steward, brother of Seoul Olympian Scott and the third rider on the comeback trail, racing on the road for the first time in ten years.
It’s never too late.
Block saw Ruby Dobson and Talia Appleton start together off 45 seconds, just in front of the lone Scratch rider, recently returned from racing in Belgium, Jake Lay.
The outward leg saw most groups break up.
One that stayed together was the 2.30 group of Christensen, Halket, Simmons and Steward who rode strongly with the wind and had caught Bakker and Chadd just after the Long Lane turnaround; Bakker rolled through for a few turns but his ticket expired not long after turning left onto the Barwite Road; Chadd had only booked a passenger’s ticket, so he hung on.
The other group riding well was the nine minute group of Appleton, Ross, Parker and Conrick.
But they were also the only
group to be stopped by the traffic marshal at the turnaround, losing them about 30 seconds.
All the while, Jake Lay was stalking. He picked up Talia Appleton and set about hunting down the field.
After the decisive turn onto Old Tolmie Road, the headwind played havoc with riders spread all the way up the Coombesberg.
Ross and Parker first dropped Conrick (no three in a row for him) then Appleton and picked up all the out markers and looked to have a good lead going over the top.
The 2.30 group picked up Jarrod Appleton over the hill and with Chadd in tow, could see the Lead Car and catch a faint glimpse of the two riders in MMBCC kit up ahead.
But it looked like they had enough lead.
At the ford over Ford’s Creek, the Lay train, with Talia Appleton on board, caught them all and the pace lifted again.
Suddenly, Ross and Parker were within catching distance.
With just 300 metres to go they were caught as Lay whistled past.
Simmons sprinted for second ahead of Chadd, Halket, Jarrod Appleton, Christensen, Talia Appleton, Steward, Ross and Parker.
Surely, without the traffic stop, Ross and Parker had it won. They was robbed!
Lay was also fastest in a corrected time of 31.56.
Many thanks all our wonderful volunteers and marshals, with a particular thanks this week to John Eisner, who made a temporary comeback to Handicapping with great success.
Next week will see more comebacks at the Individual time trial on Chapel Hill Road, with the return of club Handicapper, Dave Moore, after a fortnight cycling the Munda Biddi trail in Western Australia.
There was also talk of legendary Australian cyclist Sir Hubert Opperman making a comeback from the dead.
But in an administrative mix up, Dr Robert Oppenheimer, the father of the atomic bomb, was named instead. It should be a real blast.
A green course and great scores in golf
By ROD SARGENT
IT is great to see the golf course condition getting better and better every week at the moment.
The green staff have been working hard which is a credit to Tony and the boys, thanks to you all.
Tuesday was a day of stroke, with 27 players fronting the starter.
The winners on the day were, in third place Steve McMahon with nett 71, Adrian Cheer also on nett 71 in second place and first place was taken by Mic Davis with nett 67.
Thursday was another big day with 85 players in the field.
Grade winners on the day, starting with C grade were, Peter Cullen third place with 31 points, Les Kerr second with 32 points and first place was Adrian Cheer with 36 points.
B grade winners were Barry Davey third with 35 points, Aaron Knight second with 35 points also and first place was Stephen Daykin with 37 points.
A grade winners were Joel Sanford third with 36 points, Taki Murakami second with 39 points and Dan Moloney also 39 points grabbed the win.
The secret six was won by Blake Thornell. That brings us to the Saturday Monthly Medal proudly sponsored by WALSHY’S WIRING.
Quite a big field of 75 players too.
The best score of the day and the October Medalist was James Octigan with a nett 65. Well done James that’s a great effort. Also we had the Medal of Medals for the last twelve Monthly Medal winners and the best score of those twelve members would win.
The Medal of Medals winner was Adrian Costantini with a nett 70.
The grade results for the day, starting with C grade were, in third place Phil O’Connor with nett 73, second place was Bob Speed with nett 73 also and first was Saxon Daykin with nett 67.
B grade saw David Octigan third with nett 69, Ross Brown was second with nett 67 and James Octigan first with nett 65.
A grade saw Shaun Wade third with nett 71, Kyle Bridgeman second with nett 70 and Adrian Costantini first with nett 70 also. Kyle Bridgeman won the J D Perks scratch for the day as well.
The NTP on the seventh hole was a special prize from WALSHY’S WIRING, a great big esky and that was won by Adrian Costantini.
The finals of the club Matchplay championships were played on Sunday, and the winners were,
A grade Rod Sargent
B grade Dion Sheahan
C grade Alan Parrott
D grade Daryl Horwood Don’t forget the Glenfoursomes will be played on November 9th over 27 holes.
If you need a partner, please put your name down on the sheet in the pro shop or speak to myself.
A CLOCKWISE COURSE: (from left) Jason Parker, Adam Baker, Tim Ross, Janine Appleton and Steve Curnow turning onto Barwite Road.
PHOTO: Tim Ross
MARKS IGA MELBOURNE CUP
DAY PICNIC RACES BRING
MANSFIELD TOGETHER
RACE DAY: Sunshine, style, and racing thrills are in store as Mansfield gears up for its Melbourne Cup Day Picnic Races.
THE TOWN’S PARTY THE PARTY
IT takes a village to stage a picnic race meeting, and Mansfield’s long-running Melbourne Cup Day event is a great example.
The Mansfield District Racing Club’s volunteer committee work yearround to cover all aspects of the event - from working with Country Racing Victoria and the racing industry to provide a safe and compliant racecourse, to ensuring that patrons will be provided with the highest standards of entertainment and hospitality.
MDRC President Mrs
Leanne Backwell had high praise for the dedication and commitment of committee members, but she points out that it is the support of local businesses and community organisations that takes the event to a higher level.
“Our club has a strong partnership with groups including the Delatite Cricket Club, the Mansfield Pony Club, Rotary and in 2024, we welcome the Mansfield AFL Women’s Football Team and musicians from the Steiner School community,” she said.
“We could not provide such a quality event without their contribution.
“The support of local businesses in challenging economic times has been of great reassurance to the MDRC.
“The meeting would be very hard to run without the backing of major sponsor Marks IGA and traditional sponsors including Delatite Wines, Foodworks, McGrath Mansfield, the Mansfield Courier, and Barastoc.
“In 2024, we welcome Platinum Horse Transport as a race sponsor and marshalls+dent+wilmoth
law as sponsors of the big screen.”
With all the work behind the scenes continuing to piece together, the real magic of the day lies in the support of patrons attending, and the MDRC is thrilled that ticket sales are high from local residents.
Marquee packages, memberships, and general admission tickets for a relaxing day on the shady lawns have been extremely well supported by residents of the Mansfield Shire, supporting the unofficial name of the day as ‘The Town’s Party.’
Free admission for children under 17, a wide range of food and beverages, including a wider non-alcoholic selection, an acclaimed Fashions on the Field competition, musical entertainment from Geoff Wright, and a big screen for watching all the action of the Melbourne Cup at Flemington, combined with six exciting races in picturesque surroundings, provide a great day out for all ages.
Tickets and packages, including the popular Lawn Party, are currently available online via country. racing.com.
A free shuttle bus will be running to and from the course, departing from the Mansfield Courthouse, and buses will also operate from Bonnie Doon and Merrijig. For all inquiries and bookings, contact events@ mansfieldraces.com.au. Picnic lunches are available for order from The Produce Store via www. trybooking.com/cvuwx and The Kitchen Door at thekitchendor.com.au.
The Mansfield District Racing Club encourages community members of all ages to come along for a great day of picnic racing.
