Moorabool News 27 September 2022

By Lachlan Ellis

A local fire brigade has called on the community to keep fire hydrants out the front of their properties clean and clearly visible, to ensure firefighters can quickly access them when needed.

‘Adopting’ a fire hydrant might sound silly, but Bacchus Marsh Fire Brigade members have been out and about this winter checking and repairing fire hydrants around town.

Some, including one near the Lerderderg Library, needed to have grass covers removed, and be thoroughly cleaned before they were usable –something CFA don’t want to have to do in an emergency, when every minute counts.

“What would happen if we attended at 3am in the morning? It took ten minutes to locate, remove the grass cover, clean the cobwebs and spiders to be able to sink a hydrant to produce water. Help us help you,” the Bacchus Marsh Fire Brigade wrote on social media.

“If you have a fire hydrant on or out the front of your property, help your neighbours (and your CFA) by keeping a well maintained, visible and easily accessible fire hydrant. If you can’t find it, we can’t find it.”

General Manager of Operations and Delivery Solutions at Greater Western Water, Jodie Hallam, said while water authorities and councils were responsible for maintaining street hydrants, those who live near hydrants can also play a part in helping firefighters.

“The ‘Adopt a Hydrant’ initiative encourages the community to help us maintain street hydrants and ensure they are kept clear, visible and accessible through simple tasks like keeping vehicles clear of the hydrant, clearing shrubs around the hydrant and reporting damages,”

Ms Hallam told the Moorabool News.

“Together we can help ensure firefighters can quickly access hydrants in an emergency.”

Greater Western Water encourages the community to report any fire hydrants with vandalism, missing covers, missing marker posts, or faded paint by calling 13 44 99 so repairs can be organised.

For more information about CFA Home Fire Safety, visit cfa.vic.gov.au.

School bus rolls on Western Freeway

A school bus rolled in Pentland Hills last Wednesday following a collision with a truck on the Western Freeway, with all its occupants taken to hospital.

Police, ambulance, SES, CFA and FRV all attended the scene near the intersection of Condons Lane, with the latter three agencies working to extricate the truck driver, who had become trapped following the collision.

The remaining five students trapped inside the bus were also rescued with the assistance of Bacchus Marsh SES volunteers, and additional Rescue resources attending from Ballan and Melton.

In a statement, Victoria Police said the collision occurred at about 3.15 am on Wednesday, with “one teenage girl airlifted to hospital with serious injuries”.

“The bus contained 27 female students, four adults and the bus driver – all will be taken to hospital for observation. The male truck driver will be taken to hospital by road with serious injuries,” Victoria Police’s statement read.

“Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision and urge any witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit confidential report at www. crimestoppersvic.com.au.”

Concerned parents seeking information regarding their children were asked not to attend the scene, and to instead call Ballarat Police Station on 5336 6000.

Ambulance Victoria said that more than 30 people were assessed on the scene for traumatic conditions after paramedics arrived at 3.20 am.

In a statement, Ambulance Victoria said paramedics treated:

• a teenage girl for upper body injuries who was flown to the Royal Children’s Hospital in a serious but stable condition

• a teenage girl for lower body injuries who was also flown to the Royal Children’s Hospital in a serious but stable condition

• a man in his 50s for minor injuries who was taken by road to the Alfred Hospital in a stable condition

• a man in his 50s who was treated for lower body injuries and taken by road to the Royal Melbourne Hospital in a serious but stable condition

• a woman in her 40s for upper body injuries who was taken by road to the Royal Melbourne Hospital in a serious but stable condition

• a teenage girl for upper body injuries who was taken by road to the Royal Melbourne Hospital in a stable condition

• a woman in her 40s for upper body injuries who was taken by road to Sunshine Hospital in a stable condition

• two teenage girls for minor injuries who was taken by road to Sunshine Hospital in a stable condition

• a teenage girl for minor injuries who was taken by road to Western Hospital Footscray in a stable condition

• a teenage girl for back pain who was taken to Ballarat Base Hospital in a stable condition

• a teenage girl for upper body injuries who was taken to Ballarat Base Hospital in a stable condition

• a further 11 people have been taken by road to Ballarat Base Hospital all in a stable condition.

Speaking to the media on Wednesday, In spector Roger Schranz said VicRoads was still rehabilitating the road from a previous accident and had speed reduction signs out, when the collision occurred.

“The bus has slowed down as per the signs indicating the reduced speed, then the truck has come around the corner and headed down towards the hill. It’s seen the speed reduction and the banked-up traffic, and collided with the bus, forcing the bus off the left-hand side of the freeway, down the cliff,” Inspector Schranz said.

“The bus has gone off the side on an angle, and rested on its side … I would have as sumed someone would have passed away out of this entire tragedy, so they’re all very fortunate people involved.”

Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives continue to investigate the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.

TOW TRUCK DRIVER PRAISES SCHOOL

A tow truck driver who was one of the first to the scene commended students and staff for their handling of the accident, telling the Moorabool News that they remained calm despite the scary situation.

Trevor Oliver is the owner of Bacchus Marsh Towing, and said the bus driver and Loreto staff handled the crash exceptionally well.

“I saw a B-double down the road at the Condons Lane exit, and the bus had been punched up the backside and down a 25-metre embankment virtually, and rolled over. I reckon the accident happened at about 2.55, and I was there at about 2.58. We had just cleaned up another accident on the Freeway right there,” Mr Oliver said.

“A couple of girls had been ejected from the bus when it rolled over, but they were alright considering. Some girls were trapped with the seats collapsed on top of them on their legs. The bus driver is to be so highly praised, he ticked all the boxes. The three staff from Loreto were amazing, their paperwork was absolutely immaculate.

“The bus driver got himself out of the bus, he had a pretty reasonable bang on his head and hip. He was straight on the phone to Triple Zero, and trying to coordinate the girls that could get out of the bus out of the bus. He refused any medical treatment until the last girl got in an ambulance.”

Loreto College issued a media statement at around 11.30 am on Wednesday expressing its gratitude to the emergency services personnel who attended the site, with 3 staff and 14 students remaining in hospital for ongoing treatment and care as of Thursday.

A Rowsley woman has commemorated the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, visiting Government House in Melbourne to sign the book of condolences.

Pamela Hine took her Paddington Bear with her to sign the book, and said she felt it was important to honour the long, devoted service of the late Queen.

“I went to Government House on Wednesday [14 September] to sign the book of condolences…the Queen dying is such a momentous occasion,” Ms Hine told the Moorabool News.

“I wrote: ‘Your Majesty, you have been such

a wonderful human being. We the public from all over the world are so fortunate to have had you as our Queen. There shall never be another Queen to rule for 70 years like you. May God bless you and take you on a journey of love and peace. Thank you for being my Queen, Pamela.”

The exhibition paying tribute to Her Majesty’s reign, which included the opportunity to sign the book of condolences, closed at 6 pm on Thursday 22 September. However, an online condolence book is available to sign at www.pmc.gov.au/ her-majesty-the-queen.

Pamela wreaths for Her Majesty at the gates of Government House.

The Little’s Coach was taking Loreto College students to the airport, to attend a NASA space camp in the US, before it was hit. Photo – 7NEWS

Bird count will be a hoot

The Aussie Bird Count is almost here again, and some incredible prizes are on offer to those who take part.

The 2022 event is less than a month away, and will run during National Bird Week from October 17 – 23.

A bird count requiring just 20 minutes of birdwatching in your favourite outdoor space, be it your backyard, your local park, or even the middle of your town.

Not only will participants be helping BirdLife Australia learn more about Aussie birds, they will also go in the running to win a range of fabulous prizes, from an Olympus Digital Camera package worth over $5,600, to beautiful ‘Create Your Own Flock’ prints and a pair of Swarovski binoculars worth $3,490.

Bird counts can be submitted though the Aussie Bird Count website or the app, and you can submit as many times as you want.

To register as a counter for the Aussie Bird Count, visit www.aussiebirdcount.org.au.

Marsh set to rock … and roll

By Oliver Powell (4th Yr Deakin Uni)

Music fans might want to add a new date to the calendar, as the Rockabilly/Rock & Roll show takes over the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall on Saturday 8 October.

The Kieron McDonald Combo are set to rock the socks off boogie fans for the afternoon, with the help of special guest Rick Hudson.

Apple 98.5 FM volunteer Karellyn Dangar has been organising the event for over 10 years and doesn’t plan on taking the foot off the gas anytime soon.

“I’ve been into rockabilly music for over 40 years…it has a way of taking us out of the bad times. Really, dancing and music is the best medicine for the blues,” Ms Dangar told the Moorabool News.

Ms Dangar hopes to draw a large crowd with a wide range of skills and backgrounds in dancing.

She has been a fan of Kieron McDonalds work, even before the creation of the Kieron McDonald Combo.

“Rock and Roll isn’t about the best clothes or moves, it’s about having fun. When I’m on the dance floor I wouldn’t know if King Kong walked in. I know Kieron from his last band, the Flat Foot Shakers, and I really like the way he plays,” she said.

Kieron McDonald is keen to perform in front of a crowd once again, after the band spent much of the month off-stage.

“We’ve taken most of September off from gigs, so we are certainly excited to get back on stage. The show promises to be a great afternoon out for anyone looking to either have a dance or just kick back and listen to some original, selfpenned 50s style music,” he said.

“We have played extensively all over the world at Rockabilly festivals from Vegas to France and Spain. There will also be a special guest [Rick Hudson] doing some classic Elvis and Ricky Nelson tunes.”

“Rockabilly and 50s Rock n Roll is what we do, we live and breathe it.”

With a lucky door and raffle prizes the event is promising an afternoon of fun for the whole family.

The show will take place at the hall in Bacchus Marsh from 2pm-4pm. Tickets are on sale now, call Karellyn Dangar at 0497 533 882 to book yours.

PLAY-BASED LEARNING PROGRAM

It highlights kindergartens and long day care centres that offer play-based programs to help children learn and grow, before they start school.

Rick Hudson will join the Kieran McDonald Combo as a special guest. Photos – Oliver Powell

Driver rescued from flood

Several SES crews, including some from a Moorabool Unit, have answered a call for help in Mount Cottrell, with a driver stuck in floodwaters.

At around 4.50 pm on Monday 19 September, SES crews from the Bacchus Marsh Unit joined their counterparts from Wyndham, Wyndham West, Hobsons Bay, Port Philip, and Footscray at Cobbledicks Ford.

Rescue boats and Land Based Swift Water Rescue trained personnel were on the scene, with Victoria Police Airwing quickly arrived to winch the single occupant of the vehicle to safety.

The Bacchus Marsh SES Unit urge drivers not to risk it when floodwaters are ahead, as the results can be fatal.

“Our message doesn’t change - if it’s flooded, forget it. Never attempt to cross through floodwaters, it can very easily end in disaster,” a Bacchus Marsh SES Unit spokesperson said.

Check your augers before grain season

With grain season on the horizon, a local farmer is reminding local grain growers to be prepared, by checking their grain augers before harvest.

Fiskville farmer and Vice President of the Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) Livestock Group, Scott Young, said that grain auger cables could look like they’re in good condition, but in fact be prone to snapping, which could cause injury or even death.

“We’ve had a few incidents here in the past 12 months in this area, where cables have snapped, in one case causing a severe leg injury that required stitches, in another case almost coming down on someone’s head and damaging their grain auger,” Mr Young said.

“Even for us here yesterday, we were towing the auger and the cable snapped. The cable looked like it was in good condition, it just had a little bit of rust on it, but it gave way when we were towing it.”

Replacing a grain auger cable cheaply and quickly before harvest is a no-brainer with what’s at stake if a cable is faulty, Mr Young added.

“It took us 20 minutes to take off the old cable, put a new bit of cable through … for the cost of under $50, to save someone’s life, I reckon it’s a good reminder for everybody at this time of year,” he said.

For more information on making your farm safer, visit www.makingourfarmssafer.org.au.

Victoria Police Airwing winch the driver to safety. Photo VICSES

Scott Young reminds grain farmers to check their grain augers before harvest. Photo - VFF

Free fair for green thumbs

From a reptile show to a worm farming workshop and face painting, a community fair for young and old will be held in Darley and entry is free.

The Green Community Fair will be held at the Darley Community Art Garden on Saturday 8 October, kicking off at 10 am with a reptile show, and finishing at 1 pm.

Moorabool Shire Council’s Environment & Waste team will be running a Composting and Worm Farming Workshop from 11 am until 12 pm, and green goodies will also be on offer –namely some worm juice for your garden, and a native plants giveaway.

You can also attend various community stalls and a silent auction, and plenty of free activities will be available for kids too.

For further information, contact the Darley Community Art Garden on Facebook, or via email at darleycag@gmail.com.

HPV jab for teens

COVID-19 might be the first thing you think of when someone says “vaccination” these days, but there’s another vaccination Moorabool Shire Council is helping young people catch up on.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus spread through sexual contact, and can cause cancers including cervix, vulva, vagina, penis and anus, and some head and neck cancers.

The Gardasil 9 HPV vaccine is administered through the high school years, but Council is holding an HPV Vaccine Catchup Program for students from the ages of 12 to 18 who may have missed out.

The Gardasil 9 vaccine is for everyone, regardless of gender, and helps protect both the person getting vaccinated, and others.

The best time to be immunised against HPV is before you become sexually active. The vaccine will not protect you against HPV-related cancers and diseases caused by an HPV type you’ve already caught, but

will protect you against other types used in the vaccine.

There are 9 types covered in the vaccine provided, including the four strains most likely to cause severe disease.

Vaccination sessions will be held for Bacchus Marsh College students at Bacchus Marsh Secondary College on Thursday 6 October, and for Bacchus Marsh Grammar students at Bacchus Marsh Grammar on Thursday 13 October.

For everyone else, two sessions will be held at the Darley Civic Hub Pavilion – one from 10 am to 2 pm on Saturday 8 October, and one from 5 pm to 7 pm on Wednesday 12 October.

Bookings for the Darley Civic Hub Pavilion are essential. To book, visit www.moorabool.vic.gov.au/ Events/HPV-Vaccinations.

You can find more information about HPV at www. health.gov.au/diseases

Photo – Darley Community Art Garden

Photo – CDC, Unsplash

News

Tour to explore Greendale Cemetery

By Lachlan Ellis

A guided tour at the Greendale Cemetery will be held on the opening day of the Victorian Seniors Festival, exploring the deep history and connections within the site.

Hosted by the Ballan Shire Historical Society (BSHS), the tour will begin at 1.30 pm sharp on Sunday 2 October, and afternoon tea will also be provided at the end of the tour.

BSHS Secretary Richard Biden said there was a wealth of information and stories to be shared by local history buffs.

“We’ll be doing a walk around the cemetery, with information on various local dignitaries, things like that. The main presenters will be Pat Shanahan and Catherine Green,” Mr Biden told the Moorabool News.

“There’s quite a good history there, four of our Shire Presidents are buried there for one thing. And it sort of follows on from our tour at the Old Ballan Cemetery a few months ago. Pat Shanahan is a trustee of the Greendale Cemetery, and knows quite a lot about it, and who’s where. He’s gathered a lot of information, and had quite a bit of contact with people around Victoria wanting to come along.”

The Historical Society is hoping for a sunny day to conduct the tour, but if it does end up being rainy, there are alternative plans.

“If the weather’s going to be rotten, and there’s every chance it is, who knows, we’ll be able to have a lot of the graves and headstones up on a slideshow at the fire station, so people can still talk about it and reminisce,” Mr Biden said.

Registering or calling ahead isn’t necessary, and the event is completely free.

Michael and Bianca O’Day are pleased to announce the safe arrival of Jesse Leonard Francis O’Day. A new brother for Jack and Paddy, Jesse arrived on Tuesday 23 August at 2.25pm. Born at the Bacchus Marsh hospital, Jesse weighed 3.6kg.

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Babies born recently at Bacchus Marsh and Melton Regional Hospital. Newborns in the district

Photos – Ballan Shire Historical Society Inc.

Green Grants providing power

A local not-for-profit learning centre and food relief provider has benefitted from Community Bank investment into green programs, with applications still open for funding.

The Darley Neighbourhood House is one of the first funding recipients under the Bacchus Marsh Community Bank Branch’s ‘Green Grants Program’, with funding delivered for solar panels.

These solar panels, which have already been installed, will reduce the Neighbourhood House’s carbon footprint, and also bring down energy costs, allowing more funds to be used for programs and services.

Applications are open for Green Grants Program funding until Wednesday 30 November.

Applicants must be located within or offer a project within the Bacchus Marsh area (postcode 3340), with eligible projects including those relating to waste reduction and recycling, growing and sharing food, and protecting local biodiversity.

For more information, visit the ‘Community Bank Bacchus Marsh’ Facebook page, and click the link on the left side of the screen.

Upgrade ready, any day meow

The cat has been let out of the bag – much-needed upgrades at the pound are almost complete.

The upgrades began in mid-August, and internal walls have been added or removed as needed, painting is complete, and the entrance way has been finished.

New cattery cages will be delivered mid-October, a new entrance way and security door have also been marked out and ordered.

While the works are underway, the pound has a limited capacity to take in cats – if you believe you urgently need to bring a cat into the pound, contact Community Safety on 5366 7100 to discuss.

The works are expected to almost triple the pound’s capacity to house cats, and are due to be complete around the end of the month.

Flood warning for hikers

With heavy rainfall hitting the area, and more on the way with another La Niña coming, a local SES branch has warned the community against hiking in two local State Parks.

The Bacchus Marsh SES Unit put out a warning on social media on Sunday 18 September, warning hikers that “significant rainfall and runoff has made conditions difficult in both the Lerderderg and Werribee State Park”.

“Some tracks are now impassable because of floodwater. Some normally dry streams are flowing at significant rates,” the Bacchus Marsh SES Unit wrote.

“Please avoid these areas and do not attempt to cross through flood waters.” The two parks have been quite frequently attended by the Unit over the past 12 months, with more than 10 rescues taking place in the two parks in that time.

Community Bank board members Claire Sutherland (left) and Paula McMillan (right) with Darley Neighbourhood House Coordinator Renae Knight (centre). Photo –Community Bank Bacchus Marsh

The cattery upgrade at the Domestic Animal Pound in Maddingley is well underway. Photo Moorabool Pet Adoption Facebook page

Another accolade for ex-Devil

Moorabool Shire Council

By Lachlan Ellis

A former Darley Devil has added another achievement to his growing resume, with some media outlets speculating he’ll go top 10 in the upcoming AFL draft.

Aaron Cadman played his junior football at Darley and currently plays for the Greater Western Victoria Rebels, where he’s just taken out the club’s Best & Fairest trophy.

in the NAB League’s Team of the Year this year, on top of making the Australian Academy, being named Vic Country Co-Captain, winning a Coaches Award, and leading the goalkicking in the NAB League.

The next Ordinary Mee�ng of Council will be held on Wednesday 7 July 2021 in the Council Chambers, 15 Stead St Ballan, star�ng at 6.00 pm

Named after the Sydney Swans dual Brownlow Medallist and two-time premiership player who once played for the Rebels, Mr Cadman said winning the Adam Goodes Trophy was “a bit of a surprise”, given the talent around him at the club.

“I thought Hugh Bond was actually going to take it out, and then coming into the last couple of rounds I saw I was a bit close. I knew I played alright in the last few rounds, so I was hoping I could get over the line,” Mr Cadman told the Moorabool News.

“When I did, it was a pretty cool feeling to win the award, it’s an honour really to be up there with the names that have won it, it’s pretty special. To play with all my mates and then win the award is just really special.”

The 194cm left-footed sharpshooter, was also named as centre half forward and vice captain

With a CV like that, media outlets such as Fox Sports and Zero Hanger have speculated that Cadman may be picked in the top 10 in November’s AFL Draft.

And while he says it’s exciting to hear that kind of buzz being generated about his potential, Mr Cadman says he tries not to let the speculation get to him, and instead lets his footy speak for itself.

For details on a�endance or to the view the agenda, go to www.moorabool.vic.gov.au next Ordinary Mee�ng of Council will be held in the Council Chambers, Ballan, on Wednesday 5 October 2022, at

“I try to steer away from that sort of stuff. I see it all, but I try to keep it out of my mind. It is pretty cool to have all that stuff written about you, but at the end of the day it’s about who the AFL clubs want. I’d be happy to go Pick 100 if I get picked,” he said.

“As long as I can get on a list, I’ll be happy...I try to let my footy do the talking.”

Mr Cadman thanked his coaches, parents, and the Darley community for “the support they’re always giving me in everything I do”.

The first round of the AFL’s national draft will take place on 28 November, with a second and subsequent round to take place on 29 November.

Moorabool Shire Council

Principal Office: 15 Stead Street, Ballan Marsh Service Centre: 182 Halletts Way, Darley Library: 215 Main Street, Bacchus Address: PO Box 18, Ballan VIC 3342 (03) 5366

Aaron Cadman is the proud winner of both the Adam Goodes Trophy, and a Coaches Award. Photos – GWV Rebels

Hockey star earns silverware

By Lachlan Ellis

A Moorabool hockey player has won the premiership with her club, capping off a fantastic year for her hockey career.

Zali Ward hails from Darley and played with the Essendon Hockey Club in the Hockey Victoria Women’s Premier League Grand Final on Saturday 17 September, with Essendon claiming a convincing 4 – 1 victory over Footscray.

The 19-year old said the win was the culmi nation of a hard-fought season for the team.

“I was super stoked, especially because our team deserved it. We’ve been working hard all year, we have that respect and admiration for each other, so we just felt like we got the job done,” she said.

“A couple of my friends and family from Bacchus Marsh came to watch, so it was pretty special to see them there as well.

Personally, I think I just had a role to play, so hopefully I did the job…as a team, we work together so well, and it was a huge effort.”

Essendon won 16 games and dropped just 2 during the regular season, and Ms Ward said it had been fantastic being a part of such a strong and close-knit team.

“We take on every game no matter what opposition it is, we play our game and trust our process and the result takes care of itself. Playing for a club is almost like another family, you build relationships throughout the season,” she said.

“To be able to get the result together, across such a lengthy amount of time, is super satisfying. Whereas a tournament is quite

a quick amount of time, and while it is exhilarating, it ends quite quickly.”

The dream is to one day play for the Hockeyroos, which Ms Ward has one foot in the door for – having already been named in the 23-woman National Development Squad in March.

“If the time comes, I would be absolutely honoured to play for my country, but I’ll keep putting in the work, so until that time comes, I’ll keep chipping away. But so far, I’m just enjoying my hockey, and trying to get better every day,” she said.

Collision at the Avenue

By Lachlan Ellis

SES, ambulance, and police have responded to a crash at the Avenue of Honour in Bacchus Marsh, with a woman needing to be rescued from her car.

Rescue crews from the Bacchus Marsh SES Unit arrived at the crash near the Woolpack Road intersection at 8.25 am on Thursday 15 September, where a ute collided with a truck, and then a tree.

Bacchus Marsh SES Unit Controller Bill Robson said the female driver of the ute was “found to be trapped” when SES Rescue crews arrived.

“SES crews used hydraulic rescue equipment to remove the driver side

doors, then worked with Ambulance Victoria crews to extricate the patient into the waiting ambulance,” Mr Robson told the Moorabool News.

An Ambulance Victoria spokesperson said two people were injured in the collision.

“Ambulance Victoria was called to a report of a multi vehicle crash in Bacchus Marsh on Thursday 15 September. Paramedics treated a woman in her 40s for non-life-threatening upper body injuries, she was taken to Royal Melbourne Hospital in a stable condition,” the spokesperson said.

“A teenage girl was also treated for nonlife-threatening upper body injuries, she

was taken to Royal Children’s Hospital, also in a stable condition.”

A Victoria Police spokesperson said police are investigating the exact circumstances surrounding the collision.

“Moorabool Highway Patrol investigators were told the truck and utility collided at the intersection of Woolpack and Bacchus Marsh roads, causing the utility to crash into a tree at 8.30am,” the spokesperson said.

“The driver of the utility, a 47-year-old Balliang woman and her 12-year-old daughter, were taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The driver of the truck, 23-year-old St Arnaud man, had no injuries.”

Zali Ward keeps possession of the ball in a contest with a Footscray opponent. Photos – Essendon Hockey

Zali Ward (front row, far right) celebrated winning the Women’s Premier League Grand Final with Essendon Hockey.

Photo: VICSES Bacchus Marsh Unit

News

Crime stats till June released

The latest crime statistics for Victoria have just been released, and Victoria Police are pleased to see another decrease in offences.

469,506 criminal offences were recorded in Victoria for the year ending June 2022, representing a decrease of 52,139 offences or 10 per cent from the same 12-month period in 2021.

This represents the lowest number of criminal offences committed in the year ending June since 2014.

It also represents the lowest number of victims since the introduction of the Law Enforcement Assistance Program in 1993: 164,104 victims of crime, 38,280 less than the same period in 2017.

Though Victoria Police acknowledge pandemic restrictions, which began to lift in October 2021, contributed to lower crime numbers in the early months of the reporting period, it is still fantastic news that numbers are dropping.

“Continued low crime rates are a positive sign as we move further away from the restrictions imposed during the pandemic, which we know impacted the ability for criminals to offend,” Deputy Commissioner of Regional Operations Rick Nugent said.

“There are plenty of encouraging signs – the lowest number of home burglaries since 1993, least robberies since 2005, lowest number of cars stolen since 2011, decreasing family violence rates, less assaults, and reduced numbers of firearm and weapon offences.

“Our focus will remain steadfast on

ensuring the community not is only safe but feels safe.”

Serious and violent crimes across Victoria were also down, with a 3.7 per cent reduction in the overall number of crimes committed against another person.

Overall property and deception offences also recorded their lowest offence count since the introduction of the Law Enforcement Assistance Program in 1993.

In Moorabool, criminal incidents for the year ending June 2022 dropped even more sharply, from 1,987 in 2021, to 1,456 in 2022 –a drop of 26.7 per cent.

However, while criminal damage and thefts from a motor vehicle dropped, breaches of family violence orders slightly increased in Moorabool, from 118 in 2021 to 144 in 2022.

Keeping your farm biosecure

With foot-and-mouth disease and lumpy skin disease being major causes of concern the past few months, Agriculture Victoria is helping farmers learn how to keep their farms secure.

Agriculture Victoria’s Dairy Industry Development Officer, Richard Smith, says farm biosecurity planning “is not a one-size-fits-all process”, but resources are available to help you plan.

“After conducting a risk assessment and action plan, the next step is to create a farm biosecurity plan. A farm biosecurity plan is a practical way of showing how you are preventing the introduction of pests, disease, weeds, and contaminants to your property, spreading around your property, or spreading from your property,” Mr Smith said.

“A farm biosecurity plan should define your responsibilities, outline the disease protocols used on your property, ensure property information and biosecurity measures are quickly accessible, and enable you to easily communicate your biosecurity procedures to others.”

Templates and tools have been developed by a range of industry peak bodies, ranging from industry-specific tools to more general ideas. A few handy, free links include www. agriculture.vic.gov.au/fmd, www.animalhealthaustralia.com.au, and www.farmbiosecurity. com.au.

“There are no right or wrong answers when developing a farm biosecurity plan – the only bad biosecurity plan is the one you don’t have. A farm biosecurity plan is a tool to help you identify the risks on your farm and document how you will manage them,” Mr Smith said.

For more information on Victoria’s biosecurity, visit www.agriculture.vic.gov.au/biosecurity.

Police thank survey respondents

Victoria Police have thanked the community for providing feedback and ideas on service delivery, with almost 9,500 people taking part across the state.

As part of plans to develop a future service delivery model, Victoria Police asked Victorians to take the ‘Service Delivery Survey’ earlier this year.

Participants were asked questions such as what contact they’ve had with Victoria Police, how they would like Victoria Police to prioritise resources in the future, and how Victoria Police could improve quality and efficiency of services.

The results show that the key safety concerns in the community are people affected by drugs or alcohol, home burglary, theft, and hoon driving.

To improve community safety, the most common ideas suggested were greater presence on the roads, community forums, school engagement, attendance at events, and visible police presence including through foot and bike patrols.

Following on from the survey, Victoria Police intend to run a roadshow across the state, delivering community meetings and workshops in both Melbourne and regional Victoria to further engage with the community.

Locations and dates will be detailed on both www.engage. vic.gov.au, and Eyewatch Facebook pages such as the ‘Eyewatch – Moorabool Police Service Area’ page.

For more information, head to www.engage.vic.gov.au/ transforming-victorias-police-services.

Cashback offer on dining and entertainment

The Victorian Dining and Entertainment Program is back, and while previous rounds were restricted to certain days, this round is available any day of the week.

Earlier this year in March, the ‘Statewide Dining Vouchers’ program reimbursed 25 per cent of dining costs, but only from Mondays to Thursdays – this recent round offers money back on purchases made any day, anywhere in Victoria.

The new round of the Victorian Dining and Entertainment Program opened on Monday 19 September, and offers 25 per cent cash back when you spend $40 or more.

Anyone with an Australian bank account can make multiple claims until they reach a combined total of $125 cash back, and all that’s required to make a claim is a receipt and bank account details.

Eligible dining locations include cafés, restaurants, pubs, and take away shops, but food ordered through home delivery companies or purchased at convenience stores, milk bars, supermarkets, greengrocers, grocery stores, service stations, confectionary shops and packaged food stores are not eligible for a claim.

For entertainment, events, cinemas, exhibitions, museums, galleries, zoos, live performances, and amusement parks are covered, but sports, gaming, transport costs and ticket resales are not.

The program is available on a first come, first served basis

until the $25 million of funds are exhausted, or by 11:59pm Friday 16 December 2022.

To make a claim, visit dining-and-entertainment.business. vic.gov.au.

Don’t forget your helmet

Term 3 school holidays are a fantastic time for kids to enjoy the great outdoors on a bicycle – but Bacchus Marsh Police have urged kids to do so safely.

As we head into warmer spring weather, getting on a bike becomes more and more tempting, but doing so without a helmet is asking for trouble.

Bacchus Marsh Police have put a call out for everyone hopping on a bike to make sure they’re wearing a helmet.

“We want you to make the holidays memorable for the right reasons, and not because you hurt yourself after coming off your bike,” a Bacchus Marsh Police member said.

“We will be out and about reminding people about road safety and the importance of wearing a helmet when cycling.”

A 2018 review of 55 studies into bicycle helmets’ impact on head injury found that bicycle helmets reduce head injury by 48 per cent, serious head injury by 60 per cent, and face injury by 23 per cent.

Photo

[Name of publication] is bound by the Standards may have been breached, email (info@presscouncil.org.au) http://www.presscouncil.org.au.

BAIN

BEETLEJUICE

BOOKS, Raymond E Feist, Riftwar Cycle and The Serpent War Saga, Total of 10 $40 the lot Phone 0433 828 194

BOOKSHELF Solid wood. No ply. 6ft x 3ft $70 - 0400 367 288 BREVILLE Toaster, 4 Slice, $5 Ph: 0490 066 551

BRIDLE Show bridle $80 - 0433 828 194

BUNK BEDS tubular steel powder coated purple. As new $80 - 0400 367 288

BIKERS

BIRD Transporter Box, double sided, suit small birds, good condition, $20 Ph 0467 488 414

BLANKET Brand new Elsa blanket $20 – 0423 252 922

BOLERO, Thompson label, polyester, as new, size XS, $300428 671 116

BOOK , Pot Purri, Penny Black, new, $10 Ph 0417 110 261

BOOK , Teddy Bears, A Voyage of Discovery, New, $15 Ph 0417 110 261

BOOK , The Complete Book of Jet Fighters, hard cover, EC, $10 Ph 5310 6662

BOOK , The Search for HMAS Sydney, hard cover, EC, $5 Ph 5310 6662

CAR BIKE RACKS x 3, All heavy duty, 2 x carry 3 bikes $25 each, 1 x carries 4 bikes $35, Ph: 0437 220 048

COFFEE TABLE , square, 750mm x 750mm, excellent condition, $100 Ph 0400 383899

COOL ROOM PANELS, 2550x1200x50, $40 each, 2 available. Ph: 0402 059 142

COOLER BAG, picnic, Canvas, with Melamine setting for four (never used) $35 Ph 0419 161 063

COOKING APPLICANCES (3) Kambrook slow cooker, Turbo 3000 air cooker, Sunbeam small, chopper. $75 lot - 0414 691 891

COVERLET SET, Queen (new), Laura Ashley, Floral, $70 Ph: 0412 990 338

COUCH, 3 seater, black leather, good condition, $100 Ph 0400 579 124

DINNER SET Arzberg White & silver 48 piece $50 – 0433 828 194

DISPLAY UNIT, white, four shelves, excellent condition, $80 Ph 0400 383899

DOG steps, to get on couch Brand new in box $60 ono – 0414 763 557

DOLL Reborn Doll, Cloth vinyl blue eyes, open mouth, 22” lifelike GC $100 – 0427 033 391

DOOR , Bifold, cedar, undercoated white, 1990x790, 810 opening, $60. Ph: 0402 059 142

DOWNLIGHTS (11) Osram LED, 5w, 300 lumens, large dia., indoor use, $50. 0414 691 891

DVD player. Palsonic model 2040 GC $20 - 0414 691 891

FENCING - 18 Thread in Pigtail Ring Top Posts - $70 lot - 0427 417 690

FLY REEL , with 6 weight line, Blackridge, $70 Ph 0447 672 218

FRIDGE - 35 Litre Portable 3-Way in A1 condition - needs gassing$100 - 0427 417 690

GOBLET, Pirates of the black skull goblet, still in box $40 – 0423 252 922

GUITAR Essex SX $40 0433 828 194

HANDMOWERS 1 x Flymo model H33, Like new. 1 x vintage heavy duty Pope mower, Works well $20 each. Ph: 0437 220 048

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Results - Week ending Saturday 24 September

Wednesday – Stableford

Winner - Bill Pickering (19) 34 points.

R/up - Frank Raffaele (11) 33 points.

Magpie - 14th Barry Sims.

NTPs - 12th Frank Raffaele, 15th Barry Sims.

Saturday – Stableford AFL Grand Final Day.

A GRADE

Winner - Anthony Moore (6) 36 points.

R/up - Bob Arklay (9) 34 points.

B GRADE

Winner - Denis Conroy (18) 34 points on c/b

R/Up - Jimmy Walsh (20).

NTPs - 12th Andrew Carton, 15th Anthony Moore. Magpies - 14th Andrew Moore.

Balls 4 Cut-off 34 points Jimmy Walsh, Anthony Moore, Denis Conroy, Bob Arklay.

JACKET, light, Ladies Joseph Ribkoff label, Viscose Rayon & Polyester, size 10, brand new, $40 - 0428 671 116

JACKET, Women’s, Sherpa style, beige, medium size, detachable hood, very warm, as new, never worn, $50 Ph 0421 502 084

LED Heritage candle bulbs, x4, 3.3 watt, warm white, brand new in box, all for $40 Ph: 0421 372 438

MASSAGER , Legs Beautician by Livemor. Programmable for lower leg, ankles and feet. As new condition. $80 -5310 6671

MIRROR Cheval mahogany $40 –0433 828 194

ORGAN, Yamaha Upright Model CN - 70 Perfect condition. $100 Ph: 0437 220 048

OUTDOOR CHAIR , made from horse haymes & plough seat. Used, $85 - 0428 671 116

OUTDOOR SETTING Garden glass table 6 chairs cushions & umbrella $100 ONO 0447 754 664

RECLINERS, 2 x single seat, colour taupe, $100 each, excellent condition Ph 0400 383899

ROCKING CHAIR , Jason Roger, floral fabric, very good condition, $75. Ph: 0407 148 184

ROTARY TUMBLER KT-2000 – 220v, 5 speed, one hour timer. Comes with SS media and 2 spare lid seals. $80 – 5367 7795 SADDLE GC $99 - 0433 828 194

SCREWDRIVER SET, Stanley, 14 piece, new, $20 Ph 0418 318 164

SHOE RACK , with cover, 20 grid, new in box, $20 Ph 0417 110 261

SHOWER BASE, Mondella Cadenza, 900x900x100, in box, $80. Ph: 0402 059 142"

SHREDDER Electric Paper shredder Small office type $100433 828 194

SMART BLENDER , Smith & Noble, 120 watt, brand new, $60 Ph: 0421 372 438

SPOTLIGHTS, 3 on stainless steel bar, for ceiling, LED globes, $40 Ph 0418 318 164

STAR POST DRIVER $100 ONO Ph 0447754664

STAR WARS Trilogy VHS Special Edition, Perfect Condition $50, Phone 0433 828 194

STEEL CAPPED SAFETY BOOTS, Women’s Size 8, Black with laces, no side zip, only worn once EC $20 Ph: 0432973539

TABLE , Garden, glass, 6 chairs cushions and umbrella $100 ONO Ph 0447754664

TABLE , Retro and six black chairs $80 0423252922

TOTEM Tennis set EC $15 - 0433 828 194

UKUELE Kmise $20 – 0433 828 194

WORKLIGHT, Fairway brand, 150 watt, $20 Ph 0447 672218 1924

Devils come up second best

Netball on Grand Final day didn’t turn out the way the Darley Devils would’ve hoped, with both the A Grade and Under 19s sides going down to their North Ballarat rivals.

In the A Grade, North showed why they were favourites in a dominant display, outscoring or equalling Darley in every quarter to ensure they couldn’t bridge the gap.

Though scores were close at quarter time – North on 9 and Darley on 6 – a 16 goal to 8 second quarter put North well ahead. To their credit, the Devils matched North with 10 goals each in the third quarter, but North clinched the cup with 47 goals at full time to Darley’s 34.

North’s Maddy Selmon was a deserving Best on Court winner, with a whopping 26 goals.

It was a more tense battle in the Under 19s, with North Ballarat leading by 3 at quarter time and 5 at half time, before an inspire 9 to 3 goal third quarter Darley’s way put the Devils up 19 to 18.

In the final quarter, North managed to nab the silverware by the barest of margins, breaking the Devils hearts with a 24 to 23 win.

But there were still smiles on Devils faces, and some silverware to take from the day, after Addison Wright took the Under 19s Best on Court.

Kilmore Cup Doo-molition job

By David Brehaut (HRV)

Exciting four-year-old Rock N Roll Doo is on target to make a trip across the Tasman after a commanding victory in the Group 2 $80,000 Jet Roof Kilmore Pacing Cup (2690m) last Friday night.

His trainer-driver Michael Stanley has confirmed that Rock N Roll Doo is better than a 50-50 chance to tackle the New Zealand Trotting Cup on Tuesday, November 8.

The gelding is ninth in the initial rankings for the $600,000 feature at Christchurch’s Addington Raceway.

First though, the Burrumbeet-based Stanley and owners Brendan and Anne James are taking time to savour their Kilmore success before preparing for the Group 1 $300,000 Victoria Cup at Tabcorp Park Melton on Saturday, October 8.

Rock N Roll Doo ($5) toyed with his rivals after finding the lead with 2000m to run, charging away by seven metres from Torrid Saint ($19), with favourite Honolua Bay ($3.50) making up late ground to finish another 1.8m back in third.

Stanley told TrotsVision that the performance had been another really good steppingstone for Rock N Roll Doo.

“He was really switched on,” he said.

“He didn’t handle the last corner that well. He got on his knee a few times and I had to hold him back, but once we straightened up away he went and really went through the line strongly.”

“It’s a good asset coming into the bigger races, to have a horse that can race really strongly over the trip or if need be come with one run.”

With regard to the possibility of a NZ Cup start, Stanley said while the Victoria Cup was the immediate priority, the fact that he was qualified from the stand kept the options open.

“There’s a lot to play out, but it could be a trip of a lifetime for not just myself, but also for Brendan,” he said.

Brendan James said winning the Kilmore Pacing Cup rated right up with his biggest moments in the sport.

“I’d never have thought (years ago) I’d have a horse good enough to be in a Kilmore Cup let alone win it,” James said.

“We’re privileged to have a horse like Rock N Roll Doo, privileged to have Mick train and drive him the way he does.

Hopefully we can continue to manage him and look after him.

“They’re not robots, they’re not machines. You can’t race them in everything. We’ll just take our time with him.”

James, who races his horses under the BFJ Bloodstock Trust banner, said he had been fortunate to race some well performed horses over the years, with Jaccka Clive at the top of the tree.

He won 31 races, with his biggest success the 2012 Shepparton Cup, and ran second and third in AG Hunter Cups.

“I never thought I’d get another one as good as Jaccka Clive, but Rock N Roll Doo at this stage is going in the right direction to be better,” he said.

As well as joining some of the greats of Australian harness racing on the Kilmore Pacing Cup honour, Rock N Roll Doo earned a “golden ticket” in the Inter Dominion Pacing Championship in Victoria in November and December.

This guarantees the NZ-bred son of Rock N Roll Heaven a start in the series.

Winners at State Titles

Pentland Calisthenics Club

The Sub Juniors have won the Reserve Aggregate at the State Titles.

Pentland Calisthenics College finished off their State Title Competitions last week on Monday and Tuesday, and it was worth all the training and effort.

Monday saw the Sub Juniors competing out at Besen in Burwood for an early start and Intermediates at Besen on Tuesday evening Both walking away with success.

The Juniors were awarded the following placings: 3rd - March, 2nd - Clubs, 1st- Free Exercises, 3rd - Rods, 1st

- Aesthetics, 1st - Song and Dance. This saw them win the Reserve Aggregate at the State Titles.

The Intermediates followed up with some great results the following day on Tuesday and finished with March

- Highly Commended (5th) Clubs - 2nd, Free ExercisesHighly commended (5th) - Rods - Highly Commended (5th), Aesthetics - Highly Commended (5th), Dance - Highly Commended (5th).

Photos - Tim Saultry / sportingherald.com.au

Rock N Roll Doo. Photo: Kilmore Racing Club

The Sub Juniors with their Reserve Aggregate trophy from the State Titles. Photos - PCC

be finalizing a move this week. Your cheerful nature helps a friend out of a rut, but it’s up to you to take the initiative.

LEO—July 23-August 22

Stars & Puzzles

ACROSS

1.Grain (4)

7.Measurement (9) (4)

9.Cease (4)

10.Transmit (4) time (4) (10) (10) (4) (4) (4) (4) (9) 27.Salver (4)

DOWN 1.Dance (5) (5) (6) (6) (4) (9) (9) (4) (4) (6) (6) (5) (5) (4)

CRYPTIC PUZZLE

ACROSS

1. Cry when you speak crossly to (4). 7, They keep the loyal staff (9). 8. Look surprisedly at the hole and point to it (4). 9. Come back with a joke that’s dotty (4). 10.Look and sound like a little bird (4). 11. Left in one day by a sailor (4). 14. Improve in the role I play in “A friend” (10). 16. Didn’t leave it at that, but got after someone higher (8,2). 19. Can’t keep up the small-talk on the way back (4). 22. Quickly pick up the game (4). 24. Take time out to try to get business (4). 25. Stale and that’s categorical! (4). 26. Lay your hands on an index that’s available (32-4). 27. His name time after time rings out (4).

DOWN

1. Go back in, understanding it’s not real (5). 2. The Spanish traveller is first to drive away (5). 3. Tell you about the former (6). 4. As I travelled far into the interior in the expedition (6). 5. A cheap cut? (4). 6. Running in, is impressive (9). 12. Proclaims the name and weight (9). 13. Very grown-up. It’s hard to believe (4). 15. Speaks quickly when one knocks (4). 17. Having the sense to take Henry on, nevertheless (6). 18. The stand-in makes twice as much (6). 20. Give everything up to (5). 21. Determined likewise, we’re told, to have a battle (3-2). 23. The characters, we’re told, are very much alike (4).

23,Peas(Ps).

17,Wit-Hal.18,Double.20,All-ot.21,Set-to(set,too).

QUICK SOLUTIONS

Snip.6,Arresting.12,Ann-ounces.13,Tall.15,Raps.

ARIES—March 21-April 20

You may become involved in a volunteer activity. You join forces with someone you have a long admired and you are ready to make a decision regarding your romantic situation.

TAURUS—April 21-May 22

Stay clear of friends offering unsolicited advice. Your judgement is unusually strong and through a combination of logic and instinct you answer your own questions on love and career directions.

GEMINI—May 23-June 21

Your partner is reliable and generous. This is a good time to make an important request. An older relative provides you with useful information. Don’t hesitate to sing your own praises.

CANCER—June 22-July 22

Real estate dealings are generally favourable. You may be finalizing a move this week. Your cheerful nature helps a friend out of a rut, but it’s up to you to take the initiative.

LEO—July 23-August 22

The week may see you rubbing shoulders with a wealthy admirer. Travel planning is favoured, but explore further possibilities before making a firm decision. A delayed project is given the go-ahead.

VIRGO—August 23-September 22

Creative writing is a current strength. Spend time starting or completing a story or poem. A loved one may have important news - be there to share it in an intimate way.

LIBRA—September 23-October 22

You are given the go-ahead on a plan that has been in the works since the end of last year. A platonic friendship is highlighted. The weekend is an opportune time for embarking on a commonsense diet.

SUDOKU NUMBER GAME

SCORPIO—October 23-November 21

The week may see you rubbing shoulders with a wealthy admirer. Travel planning is favoured, but explore further possibilities before making a firm decision. A delayed project is given the go-ahead.

VIRGO—August 23-September 22

Creative writing is a current strength. Spend time starting or completing a story or poem. A loved one may have important news - be there to share it in an intimate way.

LIBRA—September 23-October 22

You are given the go-ahead on a plan that has been in the works since the end of last year. A platonic friendship is highlighted. The weekend is an opportune time for embarking on a commonsense diet.

SCORPIO—October 23-November 21

This week includes visits from long lost acquaintances and perhaps a trip to a new destination. Learning from recent experiences can lead to brighter horizons in the romance department.

SAGITTARIUS—November 22-December 22

Relatives offer you opportunities, but some small strings may be attached. Surprise expenses may mean the postponement of a luxury purchase. This week highlights cultural activities.

CAPRICORN—December 23-January 20

Avoid taking on challenges for their own sake. Examine your goals before assuming new responsibilities. A loved one is unexpectedly dramatic so prepare for fast changing moods.

AQUARIUS—January 21-February 19

You can strengthen your commitment to your work now that some domestic obstacles are behind you. A public speaking engagement is spotlighted on the weekend. An Aries steps into the friendship picture.

PISCES—February 20-March 20

Up in the air plans are settling and you may be taking a trip or making a key business decision this week. An important caution: Don’t make announcements prematurely.

BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK

You are liked by all but you are utterly stubborn and blessed with a combination of gentleness, warmth and creativity. Creatively you shine throughout the next three months, winning applause for the special touches you add to the interesting projects you take on.

Down-1,B-og-us.2,Rep-el.3,Re-late.4,Sa-far-I.5,

t-able.27,O-t-t-O.

19,Sag-s.(rev.)22,Snap.24,T-out.25,Flat.26,Get-a-

10,Peep.11,Sa-L-t14,A-m-elior-ate.16,Followedup.

Across-1,Bark.7,Retainers.8,Gap-E.9,Gag-a(rev.).

Across - 1, Magnification. 8, Roast. 9, Chinese. 10, Supine. 11, Sedate. 12, Cheek. 14, Spode. 18, Thread. 20, Prison. 23, Trussed. 24, Niece. 25, Sweet-tempered. Down - 1, Morose. 2, Grasp. 3, Intense. 4, Inch. 5, Alike. 6, Ireland. 7, Needed. 13, Hirsute. 15, Parsnip. 16, States. 17, Indeed. 19, Asset. 21, Steer. 22, Edge.

CRYPTICSOLUTIONS

CRYPTIC SOLUTIONS

Raisin.18,Opiate.20,Otter.21,Henry.23,Robe.

6,Frankness.12,Greyhound.13,Scut.15,Bust.17,

Down-1,Rumba.2,Clove.3,Victim.4,Couple.5,Less.

Tosh.22,Sour.24,Iris.25,Sten.26,Inebriate.27,Tray.

Across - 1, Mild and bitter. 8, Light. 9, Piccolo. 10, Rarest. 11, Orange (anag.). 12, Skies. 14, Steep. 18, Halved. 20, Grocer. 23, W-hit-est. 24, Nor-m.a. (rev.) 25, Right opposite.

Send.11,Ages.14,Cummerbund.16,Mysterious.19,

Across-1,Rice.7,Kilometre.8,Moor.9,Stop.10,

Down - 1, Milers. 2, La-ger (rev.). 3, Art-is-te. 4, Dope. 5, (ra)In-cur(iously). 6, Trounce (anag.). 7, Rook-Ed. 13, Killing. 15, To-Ron-to. 16, Shower. 17, C-re-ase 19, Erect. 21, (Eri)C-or-Gi(lbert). 22, Stop (rev.).

QUICKSOLUTIONS

tothedish(4).

This week includes visits from long lost acquaintances and perhaps a trip to a new destination. Learning from recent experiences can lead to brighter horizons in the romance department.

ANSWER BELOW

SAGITTARIUS—November 22-December 22

Relatives offer you opportunities, but some small strings may be attached. Surprise expenses may mean the postponement of a luxury purchase. This week highlights cultural activities.

CAPRICORN—December 23-January 20

Avoid taking on challenges for their own sake. Examine your goals before assuming new responsibilities. A loved one is unexpectedly dramatic so prepare for fast changing moods.

AQUARIUS—January 21-February 19

You can strengthen your commitment to your work now that some domestic obstacles are behind you. A public speaking engagement is spotlighted on the weekend. An Aries steps into the friendship picture.

PISCES—February 20-March 20

Up in the air plans are settling and you may be taking a trip or making a key business decision this week. An important caution: Don’t make announcements prematurely.

BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK

You are liked by all but you are utterly stubborn and blessed with a combination of gentleness, warmth and creativity. Creatively you shine throughout the next three months, winning applause for the special touches you add to the interesting projects you take on.