Moorabool News 18 October 2022

Produce dynasty to close

By Lachlan Ellis

‘Jeff Jones Plants & Produce’ has been a name synonymous with Bacchus Marsh’s Avenue of Honour for more than three decades, but the shop will be shutting its doors permanently later this year.

Also known affectionately as ‘Jonesy’s’, the shop has been run by Jeff and Glenda Jones for 35 years, with help from their family in recent times.

Ms Jones said closing the shop would be a bittersweet moment for the family, but she has treasured memories of “our wonderful customers and staff”.

“It is a bit of a wrench…I’m looking forward to it now, at first it felt a bit premature, and

I wasn’t ready. Making the decision was hard, but there’s a lot of reasons right across the board, age being probably the most predominant,” Ms Jones told the Moorabool News.

“Our eldest son Anthony drew the line in the sand, he wants to move on, and I can’t run the place without him. My favourite things about running the shop are our customers and staff, they’ve been my life. Some of the most treasured memories I have are of the young people that have come to work for us, hopefully we gave them a good work ethic and some confidence to deal with the public.

“They’ve all gone on and done wonderful things. We’ve employed two generations of families, for one family in particular we’ve

employed all their children. It’s been very rewarding watching them mature.”

Jonesy’s will officially close on 27 November, with the space to be reserved for Smokehouse 720 diners if the business wants to do undercover dining.

“If Michael from the Smokehouse wants to, it’s there for him to use. I’ve told him that I’ll be over there working for him, whether he likes it or not. I threatened the strawberry farm that I’d go over and annoy them too,” Ms Jones joked.

“I haven’t got any retirement plans at the moment, I’ve just lived for this place. I’ve got nothing I want to do, I don’t want to travel, I may do two small trips, but I’ve got no major ambitions.”

For all your Domestic Shedding, Farming and Industrial Structures

After all the highs and lows of running a business, and both bumper crops and poor harvests, Ms Jones said she’s looking forward to most is waking up in the morning and thinking “what will I do today?”

“After a couple of weeks of that though, I might be going stir crazy,” she laughed.

Ms Jones thanked the many local supplies and business customers who have worked with Jonesy’s over the years, including, but certainly not limited to: Naturipe, Tripod Farmers, Ben and Erin Peelman, Rancho Relaxo, Parwan Valley Mushrooms, Mount Blackwood Berries, YMCA Lake Dewar and Lady Northcote, Halls Gap Zoo, and The Plough.

BEST by a Country Mile!

BACCHUS MARSH ICONS - Glenda and Jeff Jones say closing Jonesy’s will be bittersweet, but they’re looking forward to less cold mornings and red tape. Photo – Lachlan Ellis

Candidate calls for ‘fresh blood’

By Lachlan Ellis

An independent running for the seat of Eureka at the state election in November says this year is the time for change in State Parliament, to get our region what it needs.

Nicola Reid is originally from the UK, but moved to Australia almost 19 years ago to study accounting at Swinburne, and now lives in Maddingley with her 12-year-old son.

She is proud to not be a career politician, having worked across several fields from songwriting, owning a small business, airline cabin crew, and accounting, and currently assists students who are neurodiverse or have intellectual difficulties, as an Education Support Officer.

Ms Reid said putting her hand up as a candidate in the state election was “a natural progression” after being an active member in the Bacchus Marsh Community Coalition’s fight to stop PFAS-contaminated soil coming to Bacchus Marsh.

“I oversaw the group’s Twitter page, review of transcripts from Parliament, and I organised the protest at the steps of State Parliament. From there I ran for local council in 2020, and polled very well, despite not taking a position on Council. Since then, I have watched as our communities have been dealt more blows, including AusNet’s proposal for the overhead powerlines,” Ms Reid told the Moorabool News.

“That, coupled with lack of substantial funding coming our way, we are feeling more and more neglected and insignificant in the priorities of our current sitting members. In short, I suppose I became angry at the whole situation.”

If elected as the inaugural State Member for Eureka, Ms Reid says she has “a list as long as my arm” of projects she wants to advocate for, including upgrading the length of the Western Freeway with at least three lanes, an overhaul of public transport connectivity, reform to mental health and neuro health, undergrounding the Western Renewables Link, a new public high school in Darley, funding for the Bacchus Marsh Aquatic Centre, sewerage to be installed in Bungaree, Blackwood and Wallace, and a Bacchus Marsh bypass to redirect heavy trucks.

“I’m a straight shooter, a passionate advocate for our amazing region and I’m determined to secure the services, facilities and infrastructure that we deserve, as opposed to the breadcrumbs we have been fed for too long,” Ms Reid said.

“I am well connected in our community and in touch with what is needed for our electorate, and I am excited at the prospect that I could be our voice in parliament. I believe we need a change, fresh blood, a fresh pair of eyes.”

Ms Reid said 2022 is “the year we can make that change and see our region finally getting a piece of the (funding) cake in Spring Street.”

For more information on Nicola Reid and her campaign, visit www.nicolareidindependent. com.

Fundraiser to ring in spring

The Ballan Red Cross are hosting a Spring Brunch next week, and are inviting all members of the community, both new and old, to come together and raise funds for a great cause.

Attendees can take part in the brunch for just $15, with great food, a raffle, crafts, jams, and baked goods on offer.

After a long period without community events due to the COVID pandemic, the brunch will offer a chance to catch up with old friends, and meet new ones, while enjoying some great food.

The brunch begins at 11 am at the Ballan Mechanics Hall, on Wednesday 26 October. To book, ring Mary on 5368 1128 by Sunday 23 October.

The Ballan Red Cross Spring Brunch has been generously sponsored by Goldwind Australia, and all money raised will go to the Red Cross.

Artisan agriculture producers in the Hepburn Shire and Central Highlands region are invited to apply for grants of up to $2,000 + GST for professional and business development, product growth or business efficiency. Grant Guidelines can be obtained from the Artisan Agriculture Project page at www.hepburn.vic.gov.au/Artisan-agriculture

For more info contact Sharon Hebbard on email at shebbard@hepburn.vic.gov.au or call (03) 5321 6129. To apply follow link to Small-Scale Artisan Agriculture Grant Application. Applications close Sunday 28 October 2022.

Now

Nicola Reid is running for the seat of Eureka as an Independent.

Photo - supplied

SMALL-SCALE ARTISAN AGRICULTURE GRANTS PROGRAM

Better buses promised

By Lachlan Ellis

An extension of bus services in Maddingley have been promised by a local MP, if she and her party win the upcoming state election on November 26. Member for Buninyong Michaela Settle visited the Christians Bus Company business last Friday, which operates the 433, 434, and 435 bus routes.

Ms Settle promised that if the Andrews Government is re-elected in November, and she wins the new seat of Eureka, the local bus service would be extended to Maddingley, catering to the area’s growing population.

“I’ve done a lot of doorknocking around the Maddingley area, and I think what’s really important is very obvious in Bacchus Marsh – we’ve got to keep the infrastructure up with the growth. It’s wonderful to see the area thriving and growing, but that also means that we need to get those services in there,” Ms Settle said.

“This is a commitment from the Labor Government if we’re re-elected, to extend that 433 bus route up into Stonehill Estate. That’s a really growing community, and I’d love to see those services there. It’s about kids getting to their part-time job at The Village, it’s about families getting to the vital services they need.”

Minister for Public Transport, Ben Carroll, said the Andrews Government would “keep locals on the move, whether it be accessing important appointments, attending school or university, or heading to the local shops for supplies”.

“We are focused on delivering a modern, accessible, environmentally sustainable bus network that increases the number of people choosing to take the bus,” Mr Carroll said.

The service extension would complement the Ballarat Line Upgrade, which has provided an upgrade to Bacchus Marsh Station and an extra 25 train services to Bacchus Marsh per week.

By 2025, every new bus added to the Victorian bus network will be a zero emissions vehicle, in line with the Government’s plans to halve Victoria’s greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.

The bus route extension hasn’t yet been costed by the Department of Transport.

Christians Bus Company Executive Campbell Christian and Michaela Settle are excited to see the 433 route extended to Maddingley. Photo – Lachlan Ellis

Giddy-up to the Cup

By Lachlan Ellis

It’s almost time for the Ballan Cup once again, and the Ballan Jockey Club is eager to put on a great show in its 160th year.

There will be plenty on offer for adults and kids alike, from a $170pp two-course luncheon and five-hour beverage package, and the Fashions on the Field contest, to free kids’ activities such as face painting, birdhouse building, and tug of war.

A whopping $2,000 cash pool, as well as local hampers and Jockey Club memberships, are on offer for Fashions on the Field winners and runners-up, across three categories: Best Dressed, Best Suited, and Best Millinery.

Ballan Jockey Club President Billy Smith said it was exciting to host the event after a difficult couple of years.

“After two years of lockdowns and one year with no people able to attend, it’s great to be running the Ballan Cup again. Last year we were lucky enough to have patrons attending, but the last two years have been incredibly frustrating. This year, things are looking a lot better,” Mr Smith told the Moorabool News.

“We’ve got a full range of activities – a jumping castle, mini golf, kids’ games, we’ve got hospitality packages that include meals and drinks.”

For just $10, attendees can book a bus to and from either Bacchus

Marsh Railway Station (departing 10.30 am) or Ballan Railway Station (departing 11 am), with both buses returning from Geelong Racecourse 30 minutes after the last race, at 6 pm.

The bus service Is being run by Cartier World Travel – to book a bus, visit www.cartierworldtravel.com/ ballan-cup-2022.

And like so many events, the Ballan Cup wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of sponsors.

“The Ballan & District Community Bank Branch have been a major sponsor of the Cup, without their support the Cup wouldn’t happen,” Mr Smith said.

Other sponsors of the event include Avis, Ballan Storage, Nutrien Ag Solutions, Quinlan Cranes, Grovers Rural Supplies, and Shane Cook Homes.

A portion of Cup Day profits will go towards the redevelopment of the Ballan Recreation Reserve, which Mr Smith says is “a perfect fit for the Club”.

“The Ballan Recreation Reserve project is a great community initiative which we are absolutely thrilled to support. The more people who come and support our Cup Day the bigger our donation can be, so we are encouraging Ballan to get behind this Cup,” he said.

For more information and to book your tickets to the Ballan Cup, visit country.racing.com/ballan.

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Letters to the Editor

Writing Letters to the Editor

Each letter must be accompanied with the writer’s full name, address and phone number (name and suburb for publication only) and be limited to 300 words. Letters to be received via post or email (preferred option). The Editor has the right to limit the amount of words in each letter received and published letters are at the discretion of the Editor. Send your letters to

Dear Editor,

It is incredibly disheartening to watch Bacchus Marsh completely destroyed by our Council.

Constant traffic congestion, impatient drivers, lack of car parks and the homes just keep getting built, and any tiny bit of green land divided into lots.

This question goes to you Council, have you even given this any consideration whatsoever?

Have you driven through the town and discovered just how congested the roads are, lack of parking facilities, lack of infrastructure, an over-supply of new residents and, overcrowding?

So how are you even considering to fill the town with more people?

It has become like driving through Lygon Street, adding to that the impatience and ignorance of many new residents.

In my opinion, the town is destroyed.

Graham Short Darley

HELMETED HONEYEATER

FIORDLAND PENGUIN

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Visit Melbourne Zoo to help fight extinction for a future rich in wildlife.

Photos – Ballan Jockey Club

Pavilion works underway

By Lachlan Ellis

Moorabool Shire Council has provided an update on works at the Ballan Recreation Reserve, with a new pavilion set to be completed in late February.

On social media last week, Council let the community know that the change rooms’ steel structure was complete, with wall framing to begin and the social pavilion slab nearing completion.

Council CEO Derek Madden said Council, like the Ballan & District community, was eagerly awaiting completion of the pavilion works.

“The Ballan Recreation Reserve pavilion upgrade is still on track for completion by the end of February 2023, with the handover expected to take place in late March,” Mr Madden said.

“The new pavilion will not just be a great asset for the Ballan Recreation Reserve users (Ballan Football Netball Club, Ballan Cricket Club and Ballan Bowls Club) but a space for the entire community to hold various activities and events throughout the year.

“Clubs have long advocated for a pavilion upgrade for its Ballan sporting precinct, with Council and Sport and Recreation Victoria (SRV) proud to help make this dream a reality.”

President of the Ballan Recreation Reserve Committee, Peter McGregor, said delays to the project had been frustrating for the local

sporting clubs and community, but they were looking forward to next year.

“We can’t wait to have it completed so we can all move in there and start normality. It’ll provide opportunities for people to use it, not just the sporting groups, it’ll be a community facility for other groups to hire it,” Mr McGregor said.

“It’s been a little bit difficult for the clubs with the delays, but I think they’ve managed to adapt and be flexible. We’re hoping the

Cricket Club will at least have their presentation there, at the end of February there’s probably only one home and away match after that.”

As well as work on the pavilion, work on new cricket nets at the Reserve will start later this month.

The Ballan Cricket Club will still have access to their old nets during the construction phase, but “will soon have a 3-lane enclosed practice facility suited to club and Cricket Victoria requirements”, Mr Madden said.

Community Support Month kicks off

October is Community Support Month at Central Highlands Water (CHW), and the company is launching the ‘Community Water Bottle Partner’ support category this year.

CHW’s one-off support provides financial assistance to local charities, community and sporting groups, and not-for-profits to deliver events or projects with a water focus, or that benefit the greater community.

The community support programs promote water conservation, sustainability and the Choose Tap message.

CHW’s Managing Director, Jeff Haydon, said “CHW is determined to invest in the important work community organisations provide to our region”, particularly during Community Support Month.

“Our new Community Water Bottle Partner category is a two-year commitment, and a great way to minimise single-use water bottle purchases. Through the sale of CHW reusable water bottles, 100 per cent of all proceeds raised by the community will be donated to the partner,” Mr Haydon said.

The main fundraising event for the program is the Ballarat Begonia Festival, held over the March Labour Day long weekend. Bottles are also sold at CHW offices, Selkirk Stadium, and the Ballarat Aquatic & Lifestyle Centre.

Previous local partners in CHW’s community support program include WRISC Family Violence Support, Maryborough Energy Breakthrough, Royal South Street Society, Ballarat Swimming Club, and Clunes Agricultural wSociety.

Applications for both the Community Water Bottle Partner and one-off support category are open from October 1 to 31, and will be assessed during the first week of November.

For more information, visit www.chw.net.au/communitysupport.

Apply

Photo – Moorabool Shire Council

Photos – CHW

Community campaign to help fund pavilion

By Lachlan Ellis

A new pavilion for the Darley community and sporting clubs is due for completion next year, and the tenant clubs are asking for the community’s help to make it the best facility possible.

Construction of the Darley Park Community and Sports Centre is being funded jointly by the State Government, Moorabool Shire Council, and Darley Park’s three tenant clubs – the Darley Football Netball Club (DFNC) Seniors, Juniors, and the Darley Cricket Club. Last week the tenant clubs launched the ‘Darley Sports & Community Facilities Fund’, asking the community to help complete the pavilion, by contributing to the $4.1 million project.

The fundraiser has a target of $500,000, and all donations of $2 or more are tax deductible.

DFNC President Mark Shelly said the pavilion would cater for the whole Darley community and provide a sense of community ownership, with completion expected in late February 2023.

“What we’ve initiated the fundraiser for is, there’s significant other funds required for the fitout and surrounds of the building, such as the kitchen fit-out, chairs, tables, et cetera. There are a lot of extras that we’ll need to come up with basically,” Mr Shelly told the Moorabool News.

“What we want to be able to do is make sure the new facility is inviting for all sectors of the community. By having a fundraiser of this nature, members of the community can volunteer and put in if they’re able to, and that eases the burden on the tenant clubs trying to acquire more funds.”

Mr Shelly said that despite the football clubs’ significant investment to extend and upgrade the existing pavilion – which is believed to have been around since at least the mid-70s – it had been “categorically outdated” in recent times.

“To now have access to have a brand-new building will be phenomenal. It’ll be all inclusive … with the evolution of women’s football and cricket, the new pavilion will be able to cater for the new teams. All teams will have their own area, which is fantastic,” he said.

Darley Cricket Club President Tim Gallagher echoed the need for a modern facility at Darley Park, and said the Cricket Club was eager to put it to use.

“We welcome contributions from the community to enhance this fantastic project. We’re excited to have facilities that are modern, and that we’ll be proud to use as our home ground

facilities. To be able to socialise and have functions in a modern facility will be fantastic,” Mr Gallagher said.

“It’ll give the opportunity for people on the Darley side of town to have a wonderful complex to hire and use for private events.”

To contribute and help build a fantastic new facility for the Darley community, visit www. asf.org.au/projects/darley-football-netball-club-inc.

SHOW OF STRENGTH – Members from Darley FNC (Juniors & Seniors) and Darley Cricket Club are kicking off a campaign to raise $500,000 to complete the project fit-out.

Photo – Lachlan Ellis

Get a ‘spring’ in your step for festival

By Lachlan Ellis

The Ballan Autumn Festival (BAF) is ‘springing’ back this year, and is looking for volunteers to help get the show on the road.

The COVID pandemic forced BAF to be postponed in 2020 and 2021, with the BAF Committee making the difficult decision to postpone it in autumn 2022 as well.

The Spring ‘Autumn’ Festival will be filling the streets of Ballan with cheer once again on Sunday November 13, and more volunteers are needed to make this year’s BAF the best one yet.

Mary-Lou Spain is the volunteer coordinator for this year’s BAF, and said no volunteer would be turned away, no matter how much time they have to offer.

“Even if you can only contribute half an hour to volunteer, that’s fine too. Anyone who volunteers for anything will not be turned away, they’ll be welcome,” Ms Spain told the Moorabool News.

“Because we’ve had to cancel the Festival for the past two years, people lost momentum I suppose, some might’ve forgotten. We want to get people in, get the energy going … we’re so excited to be doing it again.”

Get flood ready - SES

After severe flooding in New South Wales, and the Bureau of Meteorology forecasting a wetter than average spring, the SES is hosting a Flood Information Session in Bacchus Marsh this month.

Due to the La Niña weather event, higher than average rainfall is likely between now and the end of the year.

VICSES Regional Operations Manager for the Grampians Region, James Cini, says that while floods don’t occur very often, “as was shown in the recent NSW floods, they can have long lasting impacts on the community”.

“Floods can be very deep, rise quickly and move fast, so you need to keep away from trees, drains, culverts and stay off the road during flooding to keep you and your family safe,” Mr Cini said.

“The Bacchus Marsh Local Flood Guide is a valuable tool to support residents to prepare for floods and other emergencies, and to act quickly and responsibly to minimise the impact and ultimately the toll of the emergency event.”

The SES is inviting the Bacchus Marsh community to attend a Flood Information Session at the Bacchus Marsh Community Hall on Friday 28 October, any time from 4 pm to 7 pm. Community members are welcome to drop in at any time during that period, with SES personnel to run attendees through how to prepare for a flood, and what to do to stay safe during an emergency.

There are a number of simple steps that can be taken to plan and prepare for flood and other emergencies, and now is the time to start, before major flooding occurs. You can find your local flood guide, and how to plan and prepare for a flood, at www.ses.vic. gov.au/plan-and-stay-safe.

The SES emphasises to never drive through floodwater – just 15 centimetres of flowing floodwater can float a small car, and the number once cause of death in a flood is people trying to drive through floodwater.

If you require assistance from the SES during storms and floods, call 132 500. In a lifethreatening emergency, always call Triple Zero (000).

While some past volunteers have signed back up to help, some have moved on, and Ms Spain said the Committee is hoping to have 15 – 20 new volunteers join up before November.

“We need volunteers for all kinds of things. Essentially the Festival will run from 7.30 in the morning to, say, 4.30 in the afternoon. We don’t expect people to be there the whole day, but perhaps in shifts of one hour or two hours, whatever they can do. We need people walking up and down the street answering people’s questions, at least 10 to bring down the ropes for the parade, and some locals to help as monitors to let people know which roads are closed,” she said.

“We’ll have a chat with anyone who wants to volunteer to figure out where they’ll best fit, what hours they’d like to do, et cetera. We think that’s the best way to do it.”

All volunteers will receive a free afternoon tea from the CWA, and water and snacks throughout the day.

If you’re interested in helping out with this year’s ‘Bloomin’ Marvellous’ BAF, head to www.ballanautumnfestival.com.au/ applications and click ‘Volunteering and Staffing Application BAF 2022’.

Letters to the Editor

WRITING LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Each letter must be accompanied with the writer’s full name, address and phone number (name and suburb for publication only) and be limited to 300 words. Letters to be received via post or email (preferred option).

The Editor has the right to limit the amount of words in each letter received and published letters are at the discretion of the Editor.

Send your letters

Dear Editor,

The past month has seen a slew of accidents on the Western highway between Bacchus Marsh and Ballarat. Could these be due to the absolutely shocking road surface all the way along this section? Enormous pot-holes, smashed-up patches and lumpy bitumen are a disgrace on any road, but to be on the main arterial between Melbourne and Ballarat is a joke.

This is what you get when you live in a safe Labor seat, people.

Want some changes? Get rid of Dan and Michaela Settle from their seats. After all, they’ve done bugger-all about the Western Highway in the last eight years. Oh wait; there was a Labor-authorised half-page ad in the local newspaper recently telling us that locals cared about their roads. Well, someone’s got to because Dan and Michaela sure don’t.

Katie Lindorff Rowsley

Dear Editor,

It is incredibly disheartening to watch Bacchus Marsh completely destroyed by our Council.

Constant traffic congestion, impatient drivers, lack of car parks and the homes just keep getting built, and any tiny bit of green land divided into lots.

This question goes to you Council, have you even given this any consideration whatsoever?

Have you driven through the town and discovered just how congested the roads are, lack of parking facilities, lack of infrastructure, an over-supply of new residents and, overcrowding?

So how are you even considering to fill the town with more people?

It has become like driving through Lygon Street, adding to that the impatience and ignorance of many new residents.

In my opinion, the town is destroyed.

Graham Short Darley

Scruffies Specials

Mary-Lou Spain is keen to welcome more volunteers to help run the Ballan Autumn Festival next month.

Suspended driver fined

By Lachlan Ellis

A young man caught driving while suspended has told the court that COVID meant he never saw the letter informing him of the suspension, as he was unable to attend the receiving address.

Connor Lees-O’Neill appeared in-person at the Bacchus Marsh Magistrates’ Court on Friday 14 October, entering a guilty plea to driving while suspended.

Police Prosecutor Leading Senior Constable Clare Kane said there was nothing untoward about Mr Lees-O’Neill’s driving on the day he was pulled over by police.

“At 7.48 pm on Friday the 10th of September 2021, the accused was seen by police driving a Holden Astra on the Western Highway in Bacchus Marsh, and he was intercepted.

Checks revealed his licence was suspended from the 7th of September 2021, till the 6th of December 2021 due to excessive demerit points,” LSC Kane said.

“His vehicle was impounded for a period of 30 days. He said he didn’t know his licence was suspended.”

Mr Lees-O’Neill admitted to driving while his licence was suspended, but said he had been unable to access the address where the letter informing him of the licence suspension was sent.

“I wasn’t actually living with my mum at the time, I was living with my dad. My mail had gone to my mum’s, and she didn’t open any of my mail. I didn’t get to collect it because it was the middle of COVID, I wasn’t allowed in Bacchus Marsh,” he said.

Magistrate Hugh Radford accepted the explanation, and proceeded by way of a fine.

“I’m not going to affect your licence any further. I’m going to impose a fine of $400 … hopefully this will be the end of it,” Magistrate Radford said.

Promise to halve train fares

By Lachlan Ellis

Moorabool’s had a few visits from Premier Daniel Andrews this year, but last Tuesday it was Opposition Leader Matthew Guy who paid a visit, promising to cut public transport fares.

Mr Guy and the Shadow Minister for Public Transport and Roads, Danny O’Brien, fittingly arrived by train at the Ballan Railway Station, joined by Liberal candidates for Eureka Paul Tatchell, and for Wendouree Samantha McIntosh.

Mr Guy said that should a Liberal Nationals Government be formed following the state election on November 26, V/Line fares would be halved for regional Victorians.

“I think it’s a good thing, to encourage people to get back on trains between our major cities. And when you’re in those major cities, to get from one destination to the next, your fare travelling within those major cities will be a flat $2 a day,” Mr Guy said.

“We want to get you back on the trains, cut V/Line fees in half, and have flat fees throughout our built-up areas. It’ll cost $185 million, but it’s money well spent.”

Mr Tatchell said taking 50 per cent off V/Line fares would have a significant effect on the Moorabool community, with more than half of its working residents leaving the Shire to go to work.

“Sixty per cent of Moorabool Shire commutes every day, so it’s an automatic saving. And the great thing here is it’s all about cost of living…I spoke to someone this morning, and

they said they’ll save $5,000 a year. That money will go straight back into the community,” he said.

“I think one thing the pandemic has shown us is how many people have moved to the regions, and how important this infrastructure is for the regions. I think this is a magnificent announcement, it’ll pay dividends –it’ll pay for itself, because the money comes straight back where it belongs, in your local community.”

The 50 per cent fare reduction would apply for at least a four-year trial period,

and would also make replacement bus services free of charge.

Currently a 365-day myki Pass from Ballarat to Melbourne costs $4,147 – under the Liberal Nationals plan it would cost $2,073.50. The savings would also apply for concession holders, with a 365-day myki Pass going from $2,073.50 to $1,036.75 for a concession holder.

Mr Guy said the plan would be fully costed and budgeted “before the election”.

Stern warning for disqualified driver

By Lachlan Ellis

A Magistrate has given a driver caught driving while disqualified a blunt warning, that his offending could have landed him in prison.

Kriston Holford appeared in-person at the Bacchus Marsh Magistrates Court on Friday 14 October, after being caught driving with a disqualified licence last year.

“On the 27th of April 2021, the accused’s licence was cancelled and disqualified for a period of 12 months. On the 22nd of January 2022, police observed a silver Great Wall ute driving into Grey Street. He was intercepted for a routine licence check. Police spoke with the accused, he provided his details to police and a field interview was conducted,”

Leading Senior Constable Clare Kane told the court.

“The police advised he was driving while his licence was disqualified. He said he was unaware and was driving his father’s vehicle which was registered to the business. For that reason it wasn’t impounded.”

“Were you aware that the first offence for driving whilst disqualified carries a maximum penalty of four months’ jail?” Magistrate Radford asked Mr Holford.

“No, I wasn’t aware…I haven’t driven since.” Mr Holford replied.

Magistrate Radford said he would proceed with a fine only, but urged Mr Holford to be more mindful of his licence conditions in the future.

“You’re not going to jail today sir, there was nothing untoward about the way you were driving, and it was a routine check. You’ve just got to be careful in the future,” he said.

“I’ll impose a fine in the sum of $400 without conviction. Hopefully that’ll make you think twice.”

(L-R): Danny O’Brien, Paul Tatchell, Samantha McIntosh, and Matthew Guy at Ballan Station. Photo – Lachlan Ellis

TIME TO

Youth mental health a concern

World Mental Health Day was held last week and Australian support groups have used the day to highlight growing concerns over youth mental health.

The theme of this year’s World Mental Health Day was ‘Make mental health and wellbeing a global priority’, but groups such as yourtown say young people are the most vulnerable group when it comes to mental health issues.

“The compounding challenges faced by children and young people affecting their mental health and wellbeing are unprecedented, and it’s never been more important to invest into their mental health and wellbeing,” yourtown CEO Tracy Adams said.

“Help seeking can take many forms, practical factors such as location, availability and immediacy of services available may affect access to mental health services.”

Kids Helpline, which is powered by yourtown, is Australia’s only free,

confidential 24/7 support service that provides young people with counselling options and self-help tools.

One of the programs Kids Helpline offers, My Circle, has seen a 100 per cent increase in daily users over the past year, from 150 users per day last year, to 300 this year.

My Circle is moderated by a professional counsellor, supporting young people, and focuses on the two most common topics young people contact Kids Helpline about: emotional discord and mental wellbeing.

“This 100 per cent increase in demand

is not surprising as online support services like My Circle have become an important source of early intervention for young people struggling with mental health concerns, whom research shows spend a lot of their time online and are the least likely to seek professional help when needed,” Ms Adams said.

“Young people are widely known to be the least likely to seek professional support, preferring to self-manage or approach informal support people for help. By working closely with young people to understand their help-seeking preferences, My Circle has been designed in a way that upholds standards of member safety, information accuracy, and purposeful interaction that allows young people to connect with others like them for informal support in a safer way online.”

For more information on the services yourtown provides, visit www. yourtown.com.au.

Stay fit and Stride4Stroke

With warmer weather on the way, Australians are being encouraged to get out and stay active next month for a great cause – Stroke Foundation’s Stride4Stroke.

The fundraiser not only raises much-needed funds for stroke treatment and survivors of stroke and their families, but also reduces the stroke risk of participants through physical activity.

Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer Sharon McGowan said participants can get involved through any physical activity, including walking, running, cycling or swimming.

“That’s the beauty of Stride4Stroke. Participants can complete the challenge anywhere, at any time. The aim is to increase your ‘moving minutes’ and raise a sweat, which in turn lowers your stroke risk,” Ms McGowan said.

“Stroke is largely a preventable disease. We know more than 3.1 million Australians are not getting enough physical activity on any given week. A simple way we can change that is by keeping healthy and active.”

Stroke is one of Australia’s biggest killers and causes of disability, and can happen to anyone at any time.

All money raised from Stride4Stoke will help Stroke Foundation prevent stroke, fund research and support survivors and their families at all stages of their recovery journey.

Brooke Parsons is among those ready to Stride4Stroke this November, and shared her inspiring story of stroke survival, after having a stroke at age 13.

“I was a fit and healthy pain in the butt kid. The force of the

stroke caused me to collapse and fall through a glass door,” Ms Parsons said.

“The doctors told my parents my life would be quite limited.

I had to learn how to walk, talk, and dress myself again. I’ve since proved them wrong and became a social worker, a teacher’s aide and worked for the Royal Children’s Hospital. I want to use this opportunity to raise awareness of the risks of stroke and change the state of stroke in Australia.” Stride4Stroke kicks off on Tuesday, November 1. To register, visit www.stride4stroke.org.au.

Fined for selling prohibited weeds

A Melbourne woman has been fined $2,000 for selling the State prohibited weed salvinia online, pleading guilty in the Heidelberg Magistrates Court.

Salvinia poses a significant threat to agricultural production and the environment, as it has a rapid growth rate, clogs waterways, and blocks sunlight needed by other aquatic plants, deoxygenating the water.

It is a State prohibited weed in Victoria, and Agriculture Victoria is responsible for preventing its introduction, and detecting and eradicating any infestations before they become widespread.

Agriculture Victoria Senior Compliance Officer, Mark Sellwood, said the accused was initially contacted by biosecurity officers who explained that it was illegal to keep, sell or grow salvinia in Victoria, and requested the accused to cease selling the salvinia and surrender any plants to the Department.

“Despite this approach, the accused continued to sell the plants across Victoria and into NSW and Queensland and following the execution of a search warrant in October 2021, over 2000 salvinia plants were seized from the property,” Mr Sellwood said.

Biosecurity officers continue to monitor online platforms where these illegal sales take place, and Mr Sellwood warned sellers that serious penalties can be imposed.

“You can be charged with an offence under the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994. The financial penalties can be high, as demonstrated in this instance,” he said.

“If left, it [salvinia] can block waterways, impede irrigation, prevent recreational activities and impact water quality, resulting in the loss of native flora and fauna.”

If you think you have seen salvinia growing in the natural environment, in your own pond or fish tank, contact Agriculture Victoria for free removal and treatment.

If you spot salvinia, email photographs and details of the plant to weed.spotters@agriculture.vic.gov.au and an officer will contact you to offer assistance.

For more information on State prohibited weeds visit www. agriculture.vic.gov.au.

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Melbourne social worker Brooke Parsons will participate in Stride4Stroke this November. Photo – Stroke Foundation

Photo – Michael R. Moerkerk, VicFlora

sibilities and the combined goal. You may be asking to sponsor a community or social event.

LEO—July 23-August 22

If considering major household tasks, be sure to examine the broader picture carefully. Musical events may be accented on the weakend. New relationships are increasingly harmonious.

VIRGO—August 23-September 22

Stars & Puzzles

QUICK

ACROSS

1.Rear (4)

7.Entertainment (9)

8.Uncommon (4)

9.Bill (4)

(4)

(4)

14.Theatrical (10)

(4)

(4)

(10)

(4)

(4)

(9)

DOWN

1.Wood (5)

2.Song (5)

3.Stroke (6)

9269

4.Furnaceman (6)

(4)

(6)

(4)

CRYPTIC PUZZLE

ACROSS

(9)

times (9)

(4)

(4)

(5)

(4)

(6)

(5)

1. Young creature going to a foreign country (4). 7, Girl that Irene was mistaken for (9). 8. Sweet Music! (4). 9. Surprise one like mad by turning back (4). 10. The wood is about one quarter pine (4). 11. From the chalet, narurally, you can see the mountain (4). 14. They’ll produce chips when the fish comes in (10). 16. People of importance - that authors must have in whodunits? (10). 19. Sprayed with the light out and lost no time about it (4). 22. How you’d pack to go from the south westwards? (4). 24. Shots that make one turn back (4). 25. Point at the animal and say, “Shoo!” (4). 26. Once men have killed with them, will they kill again? (9). 27. Aims for the top and bottom (4).

DOWN

1. Cut with attention, about five (5). 2. Author who takes some digesting! (5). 3. A more succesful punter than the others? (6). 4. The colour is wrong for a negro (6). 5. A spring? You do surprise me! (4). 6. However and whatever the speed (2.3.4). 12. Had a breathtaking effect! (9). 13. It’s a hundred, about, for the land (4). 15. She’s had a second set-back (4). 17. The name set in metal would be decorative (6). 18. Meaning to the devil with love, right? (6). 20. Nut of an accountant put in jail (5). 21. Girl-friends who can always say when? (5). 23. Dandelion, for instance, is spelled with a small D (4)

23,Wee-d.

s(rev.).17,Or-nat-e.18,Imp-o-rt.20,Pe-ca-n.21,Dates.

QUICK SOLUTIONS

5,Well.6,Atanyrate.12,Throttled.13,A-C-re.15,Tes-

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

ARIES—March 21-April 20

Some difficulties appear in the communications area. Try to ensure that your casual comments are not misinterpreted. An outstanding payment may arrive at last. Your partner may seem a litle calmer this week.

TAURUS—April 21-May 22

The moods of others are changing. A critical acquaintance becomes more understanding, while a shy friend is surprisingly assertive. Your positive influence has played a part in all this.

GEMINI—May 23-June 21

Avoid taking shortcuts and watch a tendency to make excuses. Hard work and long hours pay off. Your family is supportive of your ideas. Pets are featured in the weekend activities.

CANCER—June 22-July 22

Partnership endeavours are generally highlighted, provided each participant understands the individual responsibilities and the combined goal. You may be asking to sponsor a community or social event.

LEO—July 23-August 22

If considering major household tasks, be sure to examine the broader picture carefully. Musical events may be accented on the weakend. New relationships are increasingly harmonious.

VIRGO—August 23-September 22

You are surprisingly idealistic this week, fighting for principles with vigour. Your wit is sharp and you meet someone who’s almost your equal. Family ties are tightened.

LIBRA—September 23-October 22

Sorting out financial papers may prove unexpectedly time consuming. Community programmes may lead to new interests and a possible new friendship. Your relationship is much more clearly defined.

SUDOKU NUMBER GAME

SCORPIO—October 23-November 21

Watch a tendency of promising too much to too many and try to give yourself some much deserved pampering. After a few false starts, a pet project is in full swing.

ANSWER BELOW

SAGITTARIUS—November 22-December 22

Your independent streak surfaces and as a result, you make important strides in the professional environment. After the weekend, the emphasis is on financial and possibly real estate dealings.

CAPRICORN—December 23-January 20

Look for a positive outlet for built up tensions. A workmate may be vague so don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. A friend out of town may be in touch.

AQUARIUS—January 21-February 19

An invitation to a prestige event may arrive this week. Travel is spotlighted, but plan for changing weather conditions. Conditions change in the friendship area also, thankfully for the better.

PISCES—February 20-March 20

You are surprisingly idealistic this week, fighting for principles with vigour. Your wit is sharp and you meet someone who’s almost your equal. Family ties are tightened.

LIBRA—September 23-October 22

Sorting out financial papers may prove unexpectedly time consuming. Community programmes may lead to new interests and a possible new friendship. Your relationship is much more clearly defined.

SCORPIO—October 23-November 21

Watch a tendency of promising too much to too many and try to give yourself some much deserved pampering. After a few false starts, a pet project is in full swing.

SAGITTARIUS—November 22-December 22

Your independent streak surfaces and as a result, you make important strides in the professional environment. After the weekend, the emphasis is on financial and possibly real estate dealings.

CAPRICORN—December 23-January 20

Look for a positive outlet for built up tensions. A workmate may be vague so don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. A friend out of town may be in touch.

AQUARIUS—January 21-February 19

An invitation to a prestige event may arrive this week. Travel is spotlighted, but plan for changing weather conditions. Conditions change in the friendship area also, thankfully for the better.

PISCES—February 20-March 20

This week will be like a tapestry - rich in detail and colour. Take time to stand back and study the patterns. On a more practical level, your financial affairs may require attention.

BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK

You can be quite nostalgic, having strong ties to your family’s past. - but you look to the future too and generally keep up with the changing times. You tend to keep your anxieties bottled up. The months ahead spolight “new directions” and focus on travel and expansion in your profession.

Down-1,Car-V-e.2,Bacon.3,Better.4,Orange(anag.).

Across - 7, Schoolmaster. 8, Orders. 9, Ceased. 10, Mislaid. 12, Snipe. 15, Hyena. 16, Undress. 18, Ground. 20, Accept. 22, Disagreement.

Across-1,Cub-a.7,Henrietta(anag.).8,Rock.9,Stun (rev.).10,Lo-n-g.11,(chal)Et-na(turally).14,Carp-enters.16,Some-bodies.19,Sp(ray)ed.22,S-to-w.24, Nips(rev.).25,S-cat.26,Repeaters.27,Ends.

- 1, Scarcity. 2, Hole. 3, Elastic. 4, Watch. 5, Strainer. 6, True. 11, Languish. 13, Postpone. 14, Sneaked. 17, Adage. 19, Rude. 21, Came.

CRYPTICSOLUTIONS

CRYPTIC SOLUTIONS

This week will be like a tapestry - rich in detail and colour. Take time to stand back and study the patterns. On a more practical level, your financial affairs may require attention.

BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK

Salmon.18,Amazed.20,Olive.21,Handy.23,Fate.

6,Ambitious.12,Antiquity.13,Thud.15,Omit.17,

Down-1,Birch.2,Carol.3,Caress.4,Stoker.5,Smew.

22,Ruff.24,Lead.25,Lion.26,Stationed.27,Very.

Across - 7, Sheer torture. 8, Presto (anag.). 9, Ca-shew. 10, Acutely. 12, Touch. 15, Stalk. 16, Re-deems. 18, Hansom (handsome). 20, Th(em)-robs. 22, Shavingstick.

You can be quite nostalgic, having strong ties to your family’s past. - but you look to the future too and generally keep up with the changing times. You tend to keep your anxieties bottled up. The months ahead spolight “new directions” and focus on travel and expansion in your profession.

Writ.11,Halt.14,Histrionic.16,Hindustani.19,Tosh

Across-1,Back.7,Pantomime.8,Rare.9,Beak.10,

Down - 1, Short-cut. 2, Peg’s. 3, St.-Rolls. 4, Crack. 5, Outshone. 6, (t)He-re(staurant). 11, Talisman (anag.). 13, Come-back. 14, V-e-sti-.G.E. (rev.). 17, A-M.B.-it. 19, Al-so. 21, Rite (right).

PLUMBING

BALLAN

Lawn Mowing

DEATH NOTICE

KNIGHT – Glenda Jane 01.02.1941 – 11.10.2022

Passed away peacefully at Providence Aged Care. Loved and loving mother, mother-in-law, nan and gangan.

Finally At Peace Forever In Our Hearts.

DEATH NOTICE

BLAIR – James William (Jim) 12/06/1940 – 12/10/2022

PUBLIC NOTICE

As covid stopped the Family of Valda (Val) Thiele Celebrating our Beautiful Mum's Life we invite you to the RSL Hall 203 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh for a cuppa and nibbles Saturday 22nd October between 1.30pm to 3.30pm

*If you can attend please text Carrol 0409 958 990 for catering numbers.

SITUATION

Diesel Mechanic

Diesel Mechanic

Gardener –Darley area

Required to help with large established garden.

Duties include: Planting out, weeding and light pruning. (No lawn mowing is required). Approximately three hours per fortnight @ $30 p/hr

Contact Merv –0414 836 296

PUBLIC NOTICE

Passed away peacefully at the Bacchus Marsh Hospital. Loving & Loved Husband of Freda for 62 wonderful years. Cherished Father of Tony (dec) and Michelle. Loving Father-In-Law to Phillip. Proud & Devoted Grandad to Jarrod & Lauren, Nathan & Jessie, Lachlan & Allisha, and James. Great-Grandad to Audrey, Milla, Oakley and Theia. Goodbye my darling.

Work close to home

maintained fleet

close to home

Well maintained fleet

Christian's Bus Company is a bus service provider who

Christian's Bus Company is a bus service provider who

across regional Victoria for over 30 years.

team in

been operating in several locations across regional Victoria for over 30 years.

been operating in

We are currently looking to recruit a Diesel Mechanic to join our maintenance

We are currently looking to recruit a Diesel Mechanic to join our maintenance workshop team in Bacchus Marsh.

Applicants must have:

work experience as a mechanic

industry recognised qualification

strong attention to detail

professional approach

excellent organisational skills.

return we offer:

a welcoming, supportive team

high safety standards

a well maintained fleet of buses and well equipped workshop

growth opportunities

uniform and training

Experience driving a bus or a willingness to learn would be highly regarded.

The Darley Football Netball Club Inc 2022 Annual General Meeting will be held at Darley Council Hub on: Date: Wednesday 16th November Time: 7:00 pm

Venue: Darley Civic Hub Social Room

All Committee Positions will be declared vacant, and applications for any position on the Darley Football Netball Club Committee of Management for 2023 must be signed by a 2022 Financial Member, and submitted in writing prior to AGM. All applications must be endorsed by a second financial member of the club. All applications should be addressed to –

The Secretary

Darley Football Netball Club Inc PO Box 599

Bacchus Marsh Vic 3340 or lorissa_dfc@yahoo.com.au

Experience driving a

Interested? If you would like more information please

the Recruitment Officer on 0438 590 026 or to apply

careers@christiansbus.com.au as soon as possible.

By the close of business on Wednesday 9th November 2022 Agenda for Annual General Meeting: • Submission of 2022 Financial Reports for Endorsement • Election of Office Bearers for 2023

EMPLOYMENT

Sales / Advertising

FULL TIME / PART TIME

A position

team at

Please

Must

by Latrobe Valley Express. Responsibility for electoral

by the editor, Helen Tatchell, of 15 Haddon

ABN 84 115 355 461.

is

Ballan

Successful

person to

self-motivated,

Experience

State Series and State Championship

Bacchus Marsh BMX Club

It was a big weekend of BMX racing on the 8th and 9th October 2022 at Bendigo BMX Club, with 17 entries from Bacchus Marsh riders.

The weekend kicked off with the State Series presentations, where 14 of the club’s riders were presented with State Series awards. Racing on Saturday was the 20” challenge classes, where five of the club’s 12 riders made it through to the semi-finals, with four of those riders then making it to the final, coming home with State Championship award plates.

Sunday showcased the classes for Sprocket, Cruiser, and the fast pace of the Superclass riders. Amazing results for the riders on Sunday, with five out of the five making it through to the finals receiving State Championship award plates also.

Special congratulations to Sienna Richmond, who just returned to racing after a crash at Bendigo BMX track earlier in the year, working hard and achieving an incredible result with 3rd in the Junior Superclass final.

The club’s riders will now be competing at the National Championships in November 2022.

Bacchus Marsh Little Athletics

After the flooding rains last Thursday, we were fortunate enough that the track at Masons Lane Reserve recovered well and our kids were able to proceed with their weekly little athletics competition.

Registration numbers continue to grow, with lots of new athletes joining the Centre this season.

An impressive 296 PBs were recorded on Saturday morning, as the children begin to repeat events and see improvements taking place.

This Saturday will be the Centre Combined Event. This is the scheduled weekly meet for the Centre. All athletes will compete in five events (hurdles, sprint, distance, discus & long jump) gaining points in each event.

All five events must be competed in to have completed the Combined Event. Athletes must arrive by 8.30am for the first event. If one event is not competed in, that athlete will be deemed ineligible to win an award.

Presentations will be made the following week. Trophies are awarded to the winners of each age group with medals for second and third. All athletes will receive a Certificate of Participation.

Athletes must be in correct uniform (Club polo and plain black shorts), including Commonwealth Bank registration tags.

BOOKS

BOOTS

DISPLAY CABINET. Pine GC. $99 ph. 0413152448

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

EXERCISE BIKE. Slimfast VGC. $20. 0415 562 593.

FRAMED PICTURES (9) pictures of the Joker (Heath Ledger) $60 lot

0423

CAR BIKE RACKS

2 x carry 3 bikes

carries

All heavy

each,

COFFEE TABLE , square, 750mm

750mm, excellent condition, $100 Ph 0400

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

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

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

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

FRIDGE/FREEZER

capacity, 1456 x 550 x 605mm in good condition $1000403 300037

GEMINI motor, good condition, plus five speed gearbox, $90. Ph: 0412

071

GIRLS CLOTHING, Variety of girls clothes and shoes $30 the lot 0423252922

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

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

HOT AIR GUN, Powercraft, 2000 watt, $25 Ph: 0447 672 218

LADIES, Black top, brand new, small $10 0423252922

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

MAGIC 8 BALL , Brand new, still in box $10. Ph: 0423252922

MATTRESS, Sleepeezee orthopedic, queen size, spotless, free. Ph: 5310 6634

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

ORBITAL SANDER GMC 220 watt, $25 Ph: 0447 672 218

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

OUTDOOR ‘Suntuff’ durable plastic sheeting, 2 pieces, each 105 x 83 cms, see-through brown, ribbed, brand new, FREE - 0467 891 370

PRINTER and copier, HP Lazer Jet Pro MFP M521dn in working condition. $100 Ph 0407 444 444 RECLINERS, 2 x single seat, colour taupe, $100 each, excellent condition Ph 0400 383899

SADDLE GC $99 - 0433 828 194 SAND, free, about 1 metre, comes in barrel Ph 0413374714

SEE NO EVIL , speak no evil, hear no evil skull, black, $20. Ph: 0423252922

SETTOP BOX Dick Smith, high definition, model GH 5930. $20. Ph 0414 691 891

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

STAR POST DRIVER $100 ONO Ph 0447754664

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

STEEL CAPPED SAFETY

Women’s Size 8, Black

laces, no side zip, only worn

, Retro and six black chairs

Tennis set EC $15 - 0433

WORK BOOTS, Black Cougar steel cap brand new size 12, $50.

Simon Antonello (12 Boys) and Charlie Gardiner (13 Boys) warming up together pre-racing.

Photo – Bacchus Marsh BMX Club

Boys Under 6 ready for their Discus event. Photo – Supplied

Ballan Brumbies Basketball Lions bounce back on the road

Round 2 of Ballarat Basketball Associa

tion action saw Ballan Brumbies Under 14C boys face a major chal lenge without starting centre Angus Tranter, taking on the giant lineup of Phoenix Bullets. Ballan were clearly unsure of how to manage Phoenix’s height early, especially 13 year old, 6’2” centre Yaroslav Vyrodov, who towered over every other player on the court. His mere existence forced Ballan’s defense to collapse in an effort to crowd him out, allowing Barry Lockett to hit the games opening two baskets for Phoenix.

At the other end, Ballan were focusing of Vyrodov’s shot blocking presence rather than the basket as they missed easy shots. The Brumbies were implored to use their superior speed and skill to crowd the Phoenix ball handlers, create turnovers and get running. That focus saw Cruze Miller get out on the break, making one shot but missing another as Ballan finally found their feet. Will Rogers drove hard at the Phoenix defense but struggled to find help early, his kick-out passes coming to naught.

Fletcher Garner and Brody Grech both hit long jumpers - given Phoenix’s pronounced height advantage, Ballan’s main source of offense - to bring the game level before Lockett again scored to close out the half, Phoenix leading 9-7 in a defensive struggle.

Ballan started the 2nd half poorly, continually leaving Phoenix players open for easy shots though they were not able to capitalise on their ascendancy. Only Lockett and Mason Bladier, who was automatic at the free throw line, were able to hurt the Brumbies.

Slowly but surely, Ballan started to find their way back into the game through their defense. Grech, Jack Clark and Albie Eskdale took turns holding the Phoenix bigs, Vyordov and Declan Johnson, off the glass, whilst the guards attacked their ball handlers.

Ballan picked up steals on three consecutive possessions, Grech and Lachlan Prosser exchanging passes before the latter fed Garner for a basket, Clark picking Lockett’s pockets then feeding Garner for another hoop, before Garner himself intercepted a pass that led to a Grech jump shot.

With the game back in the balance both teams played to their strengths. Phoenix hammered Ballan inside with offensive

rebounds providing repeat possessions, the Brumbies using their superior shooting to try to stretch the Phoenix defense out.

The lead changed multiple times in the final few minutes. Lockett hit a tough baseline floater to give Phoenix the lead, a Grech jumpshop answering for Ballan. Bladier converted a layup only to be answered by a long Garner two.

A loose Prosser pass saw Lockett put Phoenix up with 90 seconds to play. Garnerplaying an inspired 2nd half - again stepped up, beating his man before draining a long jumpshot to put Ballan back on top.

The Brumbies dug in to force a series of Phoenix misses before the ball spilled out of bounds with 1.4 seconds remaining, the referees pointing in Ballan’s direction. Clark inbounded the ball to Miller who ran out the clock for a dramatic, hard fought 25-24 win for the Brumbies.

Ballan Brumbies have places available for junior boys and girls as well as senior places available. For information please contact us through the ‘How To Join’ section at www. ballanbrumbies.com.au

RESULTS

Under 10 Boys

Ballan D 10 lost Drummo Dragons 28

Ballan C 60 def Wildcats 6

Under 12 Boys

Ballan C 36 def Excies Acmy 14

Under 12 Girls

Ballan 16 def Saints Comets 4

Under 14 Boys

Ballan F 14 def Phoenix Razorbacks 8

Ballan D 26 def Saints Bulls 17

Ballan C 25 def Phoenix Bullets 24

Under 14 Girls

Ballan D 24 def Drummo Dragons 11

Ballan C 34 def Excies Acmy 12

Under 16 Boys

Ballan F 16 White lost Saints Falcons 64

Ballan F 6 Blue lost Sovereign Knights 46

Ballan D 31 lost Wildcats 33

Ballan C 54 def Phoenix Colts 18

Under 19 Boys

Ballan F 50 def Wildcats 28

Ballan D 61 def Phoenix Chargers 26

Ballan C 34 lost Phoenix Warriors 46

Under 19 Girls

Ballan 43 def Celtic Tigers 21

By Todd Whelan

A match-winning 158 from star opening batsman Dilon Chandima has led the Lions to a 143-run win over Wendouree in Ballarat at the weekend.

The ‘little master’ smashed the Reds attack to all parts, amassing 22 fours and five sixes during his 140-ball innings, leaving Lions coach Brian Wheelahan scratching his head in complete awe and appreciation.

“Dil’s knock was a privilege to witness,’ he said.

“He just ‘middled’ everything (off the bat). Clearly he’s in super nick and reaping the benefits of playing cricket all year round.”

Wheelahan went as far to say the reigning EJ Cleary Medalist left a double ton out there, having been just the third man dismissed with the best part of 10 overs still remaining in the 50 over format. The Lions lost 6/50 including Chandima at the back end of the innings, chasing quick runs before setting the home side 276 runs for victory.

When strike bowler Madushanka Ekanayake (2/16 off 6ov) dismissed dangerous Reds opener Cole Roscholler first ball, the Lions never looked back on the hard wicket of Victoria Park. The flag contenders struggled to impact on the run chase, blowing the asking rate out to more than seven runs per over just 12 overs in. Ever reliable Benny Longhurst (1/10 off 6ov) partnered ‘Eka’ with the ball, denying the hosts a chase on their terms while spinners Hasi Wickramasinghe (1/15 off 10ov) and newcomer Liam Cornford (1/17 off 7ov) maintained the frugal nature of the bowling performance. Not to be outdone with ball in hand, Chandima’s golden day continued with four wickets of his own to cap off what is likely to remain the most influential individual performance of the BCA 22/23 season.

THE SUPPORT ROLES

Seventeen-year-old Lions opening bat Rockey Hoey 18(44) combined with Chandima for a second successive 50 run partnership. Furthermore, the Lions welcomed the return of popular batting all-rounder Harry Killoran 17(25) as he and ‘Hasi’ 25(36) enjoyed a birds eye view of the Chandima masterclass, adding 45 and 118 respectively for the second and third

wickets. Drew Locke 21(17) and wicketkeeper Andrew Pickett 14*(11) hit quick runs late to push the Lions to their highest score since November 24, 2019 (Rd6 5/363 - Killoran 164*, Danza Hyatt 116 vs Buninyong). Ironically the Reds’ Liam Brady 38(74) featured in both Lions run feasts having made the move from Buninyong in the offseason.

NOT ALL ROSES

While clearly delighted with the win over quality opposition, Wheelahan wasn’t getting too far ahead of the situation.

“(We had) a great win but there’s plenty of work for us to do in the field,” he said.

“We must have dropped three or four (catches) and we let a few ‘ground balls’ through (for runs).”

The Lions have the bye in round four, and will use Saturday as the perfect opportunity to hone their skills.

BCA Second Grade returns on Saturday at Darley Park, weather permitting. Play starts at noon.

BCA FIRST GRADE - (ROUND 3) Darley 8/275, Overs 50. D.Chandima 158, H.Wickramasinghe 25. Wendouree 132 all out, Overs 42.3. D.Chandima 4/23, M.Ekanayake 2/16. Darley won by 143 runs

From terrible floods to triumph

By Michael Howard (HRV)

A “stressful” flood ravaged day has ended in a stunning Group 1 success for Duncan McPherson’s Aldebaran Park, whose camp has endured incredible challenges and a significant high.

The breeding principal has shared the Nagambie farm’s harrowing morning, when they were inundated by floodwaters that required their horses to be evacuated.

And McPherson has reflected on Saturday’s extraordinary turn of fortunes, with the breeder’s three-year-old Aldebaran Keepa producing a stunning final sprint to capture the Group 1 Catanach’s Jewellers Victoria Trotters Oaks at Tabcorp Park Melton.

“For her to measure up was just outstanding,” McPherson told TrotsVision. “Very proud of everyone today and the continued work at the farm that Mel and Danny (Thackerey) do up there – to save the horses and then come tonight and win a Group 1 … you just don’t expect these things in life.”

McPherson said they thought the farm was “all right last night”, but at 4am “there was a bit of a murmur, and then they were swimming horses out at eight o’clock” this morning.

“It’s not the nicest thing to do, you’re walking breast deep in water trying to get

horses out of paddocks,” he said. “You’ve got fences half under water, it’s very difficult to herd and get them, but we managed to get all ours out.”

It was achieved with a few setbacks but great effort and support.

“The first thing we did was get the horses out of the deep paddock, which were four and five foot deep, and get them up on to the highest ground we could,” McPherson said.

“And by the time we got them up on to the higher ground the water just kept coming, so

it didn’t matter which paddock we put them in.

“And then the cavalry arrived about one o’clock. It wasn’t only us, people were helping the Weidenbachs, people were helping the Flemings, we were all in each other’s properties helping each other.

“I can’t thank people enough. I’ve never met these people and the time they gave us and the way they did things was just absolutely outstanding. We couldn’t have done it on our own.

“Most importantly they’re all standing on dry ground tonight. Just a wonderful effort from everyone in the district but also the team at Aldebaran Park.”

To then cap the most challenging of days off with an extraordinary win was all the more stunning.

Chris Alford took the reins of Aldebaran Keepa for New Zealand co-trainers Bernie Hackett and Michelle Wallis, but not all went to plan in the race and with a quarter to run their filly was buried on the pegs and seemingly with no path home.

“Things went really to plan,” Alford joked on TrotsVision, “I really wanted to be four back the pegs at the 400 with nowhere to go, but she got clear just before we straightened and I thought she may get out and run a place.

"To give them four lengths turning in and to win by two running away was pretty special. Tonight she settled really well and I was pretty amazed at how good she was.”

And Alford was hopeful it would bring some much deserved satisfaction to the Aldebaran Park team.

“They’re all having a tough time up there,” he said. “The farm’s flooded and they had to move 65 horses, so a little bit of a happy moment on a bad day.”

Liam Cornford (left) made his 1st XI debut for the Lions against Wendouree on the weekend. Photo – Darley Cricket Club

Victoria Trotters Oaks (Group 1) winner Aldebaran Keepa (8). Photo: Stuart McCormick

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