Moorabool News 1 Nov 2022

Blitz on bike hoons

By Lachlan Ellis

A police operation beginning this month will target hoon motorbike riders in Bacchus Marsh, who put themselves and the community at risk.

Operation Broad Wing will see more police in visible areas and areas hoon riders are known to frequent, with the goal of both deterring riders from taking part in dangerous behaviour.

The operation will involve assistance from the State Highway patrol Solo Unit, Moorabool Highway Patrol, and local police resources.

Senior Constable Mauricio Gonzalez from Bacchus Marsh Police said the operation was prompted by an increase in reports of hoon riding in the area, and a concern that “it’s only a matter of time before someone gets seriously injured, or even killed”.

“There’s a lot of young people that ride bikes in Bacchus

Marsh, and with the warmer months, we’re expecting more to come out for recreational riding. We find that in the warmer months, there’s an increase in people, especially youth, riding bikes and offending as well,” Senior Constable Gonzalez told the Moorabool News.

“We do get a number of calls coming into our watchhouse, and also through our intel as well. There’s been an increase in recidivist youth offending, and riders who are spotted probably on a daily basis, riding through and repeating the same sort of behaviour.”

Electronic VMS signs have also been put up on Grant Street, urging the community to come forward with any information about hoon bike riders.

“We’re going to be in the places where offending is occurring, especially parks and local pathways along rivers et cetera, where a lot of these riders, sometimes in gangs of three to six motorbikes, think it’s okay to hoon past. A lot of locals are very concerned because of the noise, and many are scared to

walk on the pathways where these youths go through with no respect for the community,” Senior Constable Gonzalez said.

“If you’re unlicenced or unregistered, do not ride your trail bike, especially on the road. It’s only a matter of time before you’re caught, and when you’re caught, your bike will be impounded, and there’ll be some stiff penalties as well. You may have to go to court, and you may have to pay a hefty fine.”

Police also hope to re-educate hoon riders on the dangers of hoon riding and riding ill-equipped, in order to reduce trauma, particularly from crashes.

The operation is being supported by Moorabool Shire Council and RoadSafe Central Highlands, with backing from Station Commander Senior Sergeant Jennifer Horgan also making Operation Broad Wing possible.

If you witness any hoon riding, you can contact Bacchus Marsh Police Station on 5366 4500.

Bacchus Marsh Police are keen to get hoon riders off our roads and tracks this month.

Photo – Lachlan Ellis

Lighting up busy intersection

By Lachlan Ellis

There has been a promise made by the Andrews Labor Government for a $25 million project to put traffic lights at a Bacchus Marsh roundabout, should it win next month’s election – but the community is divided on the idea.

As part of a $174 million ‘suburban roads blitz’, the current State Government plans to invest to “improve safety, make traffic flow more smoothly for road users, and improve connections for local pedestrians and cyclists” in three towns, including Bacchus Marsh.

Under the plan, the roundabout at the intersection of Grant Street, Griffith Street, and Station Street (near Bacchus Marsh College and Maddingley Park) will be replaced with traffic lights that are timed and connected to the nearby level crossing. Member for Buninyong and Labor candidate for the new seat of Eureka, Michaela Settle, said the Bacchus Marsh community had been calling for ways to ease the town’s traffic congestion.

“We all know what this intersection gets like in the morning, we’ve got the College and Bacchus Marsh Grammar on the other side of the railway line. I think we all know something really desperately needs to be done,” Ms Settle told the Moorabool News.

“Steve McGhie talked last year about trying to get some pedestrian access, but having the lights will make things a bit more safe. For me, it’s about keeping the community, but also making it safer for our kids.”

The plan has drawn mixed reactions from the Bacchus Marsh community on social media with some saying that the lights are “well overdue”, while others say “traffic is going to be terrible” if the lights are installed.

When asked about the criticism, Ms Settle said she would “defer to the experts”.

“Regional Roads Victoria have been looking at this intersection for some time. A year or so ago there was money announced for the lights at Grant Street, and at the same time RRV were doing work to look at this intersection, and how to make it safe and viable,” she said.

“I understand how people might think stopping and starting is a bad thing, but I think you’ll find the regulation of movement will make it better. But I’ll defer to the experts at Regional Roads, who really think this is something worth doing.”

If the Andrews Government is re-elected, the Griffith Street/Station Street lights will begin construction after the lights at Grant Street are completed.

The Grant Street lights are currently due to begin construction in March.

Big day ahead for youth achievers

Moorabool young people will be awarded for their achievements at a free event – the Moorabool Youth Awards & Youth Forum.

On Thursday 17 November, young people, their families, and the whole Moorabool community are invited to the free event at Bacchus Marsh Town Hall, which runs from 6 pm to 8 pm.

Keynote speaker and bestselling author Luke S. Kennedy will share his knowledge and lived experiences, while also addressing this year’s theme, ‘Be Odd-inary’, encouraging young people to be true to themselves and embrace their individuality.

There will also be music, performances, entertainers, a photo booth, and prizes to be won on the night. The 2022 Youth Awards will be presented on the night, with the award winners receiving plaques acknowledging their contribution to their community.

Young people aged between 13 to 25 years, who have made a significant contribution within the community, are eligible for a Youth Award.

The categories are the Community Development Award, Group Project Award, Inclusion and Diversity Award, Personal Growth Award, Creative Art Award, Positive Influencer Award, and the Volunteer Award, and will be awarded in two age categories: 13 – 17 years, and 18 – 25 years.

Nominations for the 2022 Youth Awards are open until 11.59 pm on Sunday 6 November, so if you know a young person who’s done great work for their community this year, head to www.moorabool.vic.gov.au/Events/YouthForum-and-Youth-Awards, and download the nomination form.

To register for the free event, head to www.trybooking.com/cdlng.

Wilsons Mitre 10 Great service quality products

Michaela Settle says traffic lights will help alleviate congestion near Bacchus Marsh College and Bacchus Marsh Grammar. Photo – Lachlan Ellis

Chicory Kiln receives lifeline

By Lachlan Ellis

One of Bacchus Marsh’s most iconic heritage sites, the Chicory Kiln at Taverner Street, is set to be conserved, thanks to the latest round of the Living Heritage Program.

On Wednesday 12 October, Member for Melton Steve McGhie today announced a $33,000 grant from the Living Heritage Program, which provides communities the resources needed to protect our treasured heritage sites and significant objects.

The Bacchus Marsh Lions Club applied for $25,000 in funding from the Living Heritage Program last year, to match contributions from Rotary, the Community Bank, and the Chicory Kiln’s owner, but were told last September their application for that round had been unsuccessful.

The $33,000 grant they now have available will allow for conservation works, and the development of a condition assessment report for the historic signage at the Chicory Kiln.

The scope of funded works includes repairs to the roof, rainwater goods, windows, doors, and brickwork, as well as a treatment proposal for the exterior historic signage.

“The Bacchus Marsh Chicory Kiln is an iconic building; these restoration works will ensure it continues to be part of our local community for future generations,” Mr McGhie said.

“Heritage is not just about preserving

history, it’s a major part of what we love about our state and our regions. It also contributes to our tourism industry, contributing approximately $2.4 billion per year.”

Russ Hendry from the Bacchus Marsh Lions Club said conserving the Chicory Kiln was an important project for the community, and it was exciting to see it finally funded.

“The community are supporting us, we have to fund it 1 for 1. We had to get other people to stack up funding as well as the Lions Club, so we’ve got Rotary, the owner of the kiln, and Bendigo Bank also funding the project. That sort of speaks to how important we consider it to be,” Mr Hendry told the Moorabool News.

“It’s been a long time coming, we’ve been on the project for two and a half years. We’ve got 12 months to do it…a lot of time with grants like this is spent filling forms out, that’s where we are at the moment. We’ve signed the contract, and we’ll probably make a start in a month or so.

“Schools have sent us testimonials saying they’ll use it for classes, and everyone I talk to it says, ‘oh this is great, about time they put that up’. It is a great building.”

Since 2016, the Living Heritage Program has invested more than $60 million in more than 180 conservation projects with over 120 so far completed.

To find out more about the Living Heritage Program, www.heritage.vic.gov.au/ heritage-grants.

Russ Hendry (Bacchus Marsh Lions Club) at the site of the Chicory Kiln in 2021, when it seemed hopes of State Government funding had been lost. Photo – Helen Tatchell

Planting for the future

By Lachlan Ellis

The Moorabool Catchment Landcare Group (MCLG) has teamed up with Ballan Primary School, planting over 500 native plants as part of a revegetation and sustainability program

Parents, teachers, and students joined MCLG volunteers at a planting day at the school grounds on Saturday 22 October, and also installed nest boxes for local animals to live in.

The nest boxes will be monitored with a pole camera, allowing students to watch in real time on a wireless device as the camera is inserted into the nest box, to see what wildlife has made its home in the newly installed habitat. Nest boxes aim to serve the same function to wildlife as naturally formed tree hollows.

Research shows that tree hollows suitable for native wildlife require 100 – 200 years to establish. Unfortunately, many mature trees

in the Moorabool Catchment have been lost in recent severe weather events, and native vegetation in the area has been historically cleared.

Nest boxes provide an effective substitute for tree hollows, as these new trees mature over the decades to come.

The project not only increases vegetation coverage and supports native wildlife, but also engages local students on environmental issues, a cause that Coordinator of the MCLG, Jackson Cass, said the school community had shown a lot of support for.

“It’s great to have a project working with the school, particularly with the students. You cannot underestimate the impact that engaging people at a young age with have on their outlook for their natural environment,” Mr Cass told the Moorabool News.

The important work has been supported by funding from the Moorabool North Windfarm.

Prize pool for local students

Primary school students from across Western Victoria have been awarded for posters submitted in a competition run by Greater Western Water (GWW), including one student from Myrniong.

Twenty-one schools across GWW’s service region had students submit posters on the theme ‘Our Water Stories’, with prizes going to 17 students. Winners were decided by a vote of GWW employees.

Myrniong Primary School student Ana came equal third in the Foundation category, winning a $30 gift card, whilst a school in Gisborne was awarded the school prize, receiving $500 for a sustainable project at the school, sponsored by Southern Rural Water.

GWW General Manager Strategy and Partnerships, Kessia Thomson said the competition was hotly contested, and

there was an extremely high standard of entries.

“The competition attracted a record number of 1,018 poster entries in 2022, with many diverse and creative interpretations of the theme, ‘Our Water Stories’,” Ms Thomson said.

“Reflecting on the importance of water and how it has shaped our history beginning with the First Nations people is vital. It’s inspiring to see the students use art to demonstrate their understanding of the precious resource and the critical need to protect it.”

The primary school students were officially awarded at the National Water Week poster awards ceremony in Sunbury on Tuesday 18 October.

For a full list of results and to view the entries, visit www. gww.com.au/nww.

Over 500 native plants now call Ballan Primary School home, thanks to Ballan Primary staff, parents, students, and MCLG volunteers. Photo – Submitted

Myrniong Primary School student Ana, with the poster that won her third prize in the Foundation category.

Photo – Submitted

Campaign for “animals, people, and planet”

By Lachlan Ellis

A third-party candidate for the new seat of Eureka says she is running for the state election on a platform focused on the environment and climate change.

Wendy Morrison is the Animal Justice Party (AJP) candidate for Eureka, and previously ran for the AJP at the 2018 state election.

Ms Morrison lives in Ballarat and has spent several years as a camp cook with safari companies all over Australia, and has for the past six years been employed as a legal assistant.

Ms Morrison said that if elected as the Member for Eureka at the November 26 election, she hopes to strike a better balance between animals, people, and the planet.

“Animal Justice Party-wise, I’ve been involved with them for about 9 years. Originally what inspired me to stand as a candidate back in 2018, and now in 2022, is that animals have no voice in Parliament, and what current practices allow them to be bred and commoditised into all sorts of industries,” Ms Morrison told the Moorabool News.

“I guess my interest in that goes back to 2003. I’ve always loved animals, but in 2003 I just randomly locked eyes with distressed sheep on the back of a B-double on a hot, dusty day in the middle of a drought. Something just clicked in my head that I need to help these animals, so ever since then, I’ve been an advocate for animals.”

Ms Morrison said that the health of the planet and climate change can sometimes be “put into the background”, but she hopes to bring it to the forefront of policy at Spring Street.

“I want to be a voice for animals, people, and planet, because obviously there’s disadvantaged people out there that need a voice. If I was elected, I’d firstly push for an immediate transition towards clean energy, regeneration, and rapid reduction of emissions. A lot of emissions are driven by animal agriculture,” she said.

“As far as the Moorabool or Eureka area goes, I’d be pushing for protection of wildlife, for eco-tourism and creating employment in eco-tourism jobs. The AJP’s transport policy is guided towards better public transport, and lessening road traffic for the sake of commuters and wildlife.”

For more information on Wendy Morrison’s campaign, visit https://vic.animaljusticeparty. org/wendy_morrison_for_eureka.

Four-figure fine for burnout

By Lachlan Ellis

A ten second burnout has burnt a hole in a young driver’s pocket, after he was caught in the act by police, while also driving an unregistered car.

Twenty one-year-old Corey Taylor appeared in-person at the Bacchus Marsh Magistrates Court on Friday 28 October, represented by a lawyer and entering a guilty plea.

The court heard Mr Taylor had been driving an unregistered Holden Commodore at around 5.15 pm on Friday 6 May this year, when he had to stop at the boom gates on Windle Street in Ballan.

“During this time, the accused decided to do a burnout. He revved the car, held it in position, and caused the left rear wheel to lose traction with the bitumen. He did this for about 10 seconds which caused a large amount of smoke, and this was seen by police who were doing a routine patrol in the area. Police attended to the location and observed the accused driving a white Commodore during the burnout, this was recorded on their body worn cameras,” Senior Constable Clare Kane said.

“He has then driven off along Walsh Street, before heading to Inglis Street where he pulled in to a property and got out. Police observed that there were no registration plates on the front or rear of the vehicle.”

Mr Taylor made full admissions to performing a burnout and driving an unregistered car. Police also observed that there were no P plates on the car despite Mr Taylor being on a probationary driver’s licence.

Mr Taylor’s lawyer, Mr Zammit, said his client made full admissions to the offences and regretted his decisions on the day.

“Mr Taylor accepts full responsibility for the matter. He wasn’t thinking at the time. He was completing a job for a woman where he was towing a trailer, he had his licence at the time. He had completed the job and was driving to a friend’s house, and just wasn’t thinking,” Mr Zammit said.

“I ask the court today to consider a fine as an appropriate penalty. As Your Honour will be aware he has already received three demerit points, as he is on his probationary licence, he only has five points in that 12 months.”

Magistrate Hugh Radford told Mr Taylor that his decision to do a burnout wasn’t “the brightest thing you’ve ever done”.

“I can think of a number of things that could go wrong, you might have actually run into the train. That could’ve been catastrophic to you, and might have even gone to the extent of derailing the train. It’s a pretty inexplicable and dangerous thing to do,” the Magistrate said.

“But I’ve taken into account your personal circumstances and your plea of guilty. I’m not going to affect your licence, but I’m going to impose a significant fine in the sum of $1200. Hopefully that’ll make you think twice about doing burnouts. Next time you do that, you’re probably going to lose your licence.”

We would like to thank the

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as well as the

who took the time

Local organisations who applied in Round Four of the Moorabool Wind Farm Community Fund can expect to hear an update in early November.

Landscape and Visual Screening Program

Owners of residential dwellings within 4km of the Moorabool Wind Farm are invited to participate in a landscape and visual screening program, designed to reduce the potential visual impacts of the project for our closest neighbours. All agreed works are undertaken by Moorabool Wind Farm at no cost to dwelling owners. Get in touch to learn more.

Wendy Morrison is running as the Animal Justice Party’s candidate for Eureka at next month’s state election. Photo – Submitted

Cash splash for Aqualink

By Lachlan Ellis

Moorabool’s Aqualink Cycling and Walking Corridor has received a $600,000 boost from the State Government, under the Growing Suburbs Fund (GSF).

Member for Buninyong Michaela Settle visited Darley on Tuesday 25 October to announce the funding.

“Something like this is so important to the community. This Aqualink is a fantastic one, I think it’s really going to make a difference to this growing area with families. We want to get people out and about, we want to get them walking, and what a great way to do it this is,” Ms Settle said.

“This is a government announcement, not an election commitment, so this money has been committed. It’s part of the Growing Suburbs Fund…this fund has been so important for peri-urban councils. You’ve got to provide the infrastructure for these enormously growing communities, but the rates follow the communities.”

Moorabool Shire Mayor Cr Tom Sullivan thanked Ms Settle and the State Government for their support.

“This was actually a Southern Rural Water channel, and because of the network of these channels through Bacchus Marsh, we’re able to repurpose it now for community activity,” Cr Sullivan said.

“It does connect the Werribee and Lerderderg Rivers, totalling about 4.5 kilometres. Hopefully Aqualink will link up with other open spaces along the way … these communities have grown, but there hasn’t been that connectivity for them to relate to each other. This is an opportunity to do that, and improve the health and wellbeing of the community.

“This funding relates to Node 1, which includes a bike track, and Nodes 3 and 4, which include fitness equipment. This investment in the Aqualink Nodes is welcomed by the Shire, and we’d like to thank the Victorian Government for the continuing investment in Moorabool Shire and ongoing support.”

Construction and landscaping for the new Aqualink Nodes is expected to begin in March.

The Bacchus Marsh Racecourse Reserve Community Pavilion is also a past recipient of $3.2 million from the Growing Suburbs Fund.

Crs Moira Berry, Tom Sullivan, and Tonia Dudzik look over the plans for Aqualink with Member for Buninyong Michaela Settle. Photo – Lachlan Ellis

Return of ‘The Zook’

By Lachlan Ellis

A local BMX club has found its stolen track

a

while it’s not in working

lining

there

Cottrell along the train tracks.

After being checked by the Club, it seemed The Zook could run again, with panel damage and a lost bonnet the main issues.

the story,

in for a new track

other clubs

The Bacchus Marsh BMX Club, which is run

volunteers, had its track car, affectionately nicknamed ‘The Zook’, stolen in September, as well as bikes and equipment.

About two and a half weeks later, The Zook was found, dumped in a paddock in Mount

However, when BMX Club member Mick Odgers later went to recover The Zook, it had since had further damage done which rendered it unusable.

Bacchus Marsh BMX Club Co-President Simon Antonello said it was disappointing that someone would do this to a community group, but it had “turned out okay in the

end” thanks to support from other BMX clubs.

“We were dirty about it, it would’ve been working before that extra damage was done. They smashed the engine, broke water pumps, radiators, and windscreens…it was pointless damage,” Mr Antonello told the Moorabool News.

“We were meant to have a ‘Memorial Clubby’ on October 22 to say goodbye to Zook, but it got washed out. In the meantime, the week before, Northern BMX Club donated all their

race fees and canteen profit to us, which is about $850. Then Casey BMX Club took donations as well, of about $300 which they gave to us. So we ended up getting back most of the money we lost. We got a grant to be able to pay for the start hill gate as well.”

The Club has since bought a new car, with a competition planned to name it. A new date for a Zook Memorial Clubby is also in the works.

For more information on the Bacchus Marsh BMX Club, visit their social media pages.

The new car the Bacchus Marsh BMX Club has purchased, thanks to help from the Northern and Casey BMX Clubs.

Annual report released

By Lachlan Ellis

Council has put its Annual Report for 2021/22 out for public comment, following a Special Meeting held on Wednesday 26 October.

Council Mee�ng

The motion to receive and publish the ‘2021/22 Moorabool Shire Council Annual Report’ was approved unanimously by Councillors at the Special Meeting.

Commi�ee Mee�ng

The Report measures how Council has performed against

its adopted Council Plan and Annual Budget, and includes a range of topics such as highlights and challenges, financial statements, and a summary of grants received for community services and projects.

Some highlights mentioned in the report include completion of the Bald Hill 1000+ Steps, commencement of the new $3.75 pavilion and change room facility at the Ballan Recreation Reserve, and 9.3 kilometres of sealed roads reconstructed.

Challenges mentioned in the Report, many influenced by

Navigators Community Centre

Public Mee�ng

Employment

Moorabool Shire Council

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Council has the following consulta�ons

details of our consulta�ons

Order made pursuant to sec�on 25 of the domes�c animals act 1994

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the difficulties of the COVID-19 pandemic, include increased costs of materials and supply chain delays, recruiting of skilled staff, and a high volume of customer requests.

Hard copies of the Annual Report are being made available at Council offices for inspection and can be supplied upon request, and online copy are also available on Council’s website at www.moorabool.vic.gov.au/annual-report.

Cr Ally Munari was an apology and not present at the meeting.

Council invites applica�ons

• Emergency

the exis�ng

at Ballan

Order made pursuant to sec�on 25 of the domes�c animals act

• Senior Informa�on

Changes to Waste Service - Easter

at Ballan

Council Mee�ng

Western Zone – Northern Collec�on - North of Old Melbourne Road

Changes to Waste Service - Easter Western Zone – Northern

The next Ordinary Mee�ng of Council will be held in the Council Chambers, Ballan, tomorrow, Wednesday 2 November 2022, at 6.00pm

Commi�ee Mee�ng

• CRM Applica�ons

– Based at Darley

• Team Leader Sealed Road Network

Order

Permanent – Based at Ballan

pursuant to sec�on

Community Grants

Navigators Community Centre Incorporated

The mee�ng will be open to the public and live-streamed on our website: moorabool.vic.gov.au/mee�ngs

Public Mee�ng

•

close on Sunday 13 November 2022

Maternal & Child Health

Permanent – Based at Darley

Unscheduled Mee�ng of Council

Tourism Grants

Employment Tenders

Have Your Say:

Female Friendly Strategy

• Maternal & Child Health Nurse Casual – Based across all offices Applica�ons close on Sunday 27 November 2022

For more details, visit moorabool.vic.gov.au/careers

Planning Permit

Australia Day Celebra�ons

Nomina�ons

Order made pursuant to sec�on 25 of the domes�c animals act 1994

Changes to Waste Service - Easter Western Zone – Northern Collec�on - North of Old Melbourne Road

Friday 11 November, 2022.

Unscheduled

Ten decades of life

A member of the Probus Club of Bacchus Marsh will mark his 100th birthday this month, with Probus celebrating the occasion at its most recent meeting.

Jim Oakley was born in New York Village in the northeast of England on November 11, 1922. That year, Fitzroy defeated Collingwood by 11-points in the VFL Grand Final – not that Mr Oakley would’ve known what Australian rules football was until later in life.

When he was 12, he won a scholarship to go to college – however, the scholarship didn’t cover uniform and sporting equipment, which meant he couldn’t go to college as his family couldn’t afford it.

At 14, Jim cycled around the district for three months looking for a job, until he was offered work in a small sheet metal workshop as an errand boy, before taking on a five-year apprenticeship as a sheet metal worker at age 16.

At 18 he joined the Home Guard, and was responsible for delivering messages to army camps on a motorcycle. He continued his sheet metal apprenticeship during the day.

It was at age 21 when he met the woman he would marry, Evelyn – the Department of Labour transferred him to a new job at the Blyth shipyards which meant a half hour journey to work by bus every day. Jim met Evelyn on the buses and was soon hooked –the two married in August 1946.

The newlyweds went from the difficulties of rationing and scarce, expensive housing during the WWII, to seeing ads in the local paper to ‘Live and work in sunny Australia’. On 26 April 1951 they made the move after a trip to Newcastle, arriving in Sydney on the SS Cameronia. Initially, the conditions

were far from what they’d expected, with understandable anxiety as they and the other migrants were herded onto buses to Bathurst Migrant Centre for five days, with sacks around poles for the outside showers and toilets.

A long train trip to Melbourne brought them to Brooklyn Hostel where conditions were marginally better than at Bathurst. The day after the Kings Birthday weekend, all the men were bussed to local businesses to apply for work. Jim was offered a job at the Glassworks in Spotswood beginning the following day.

Things then began to turn around – with overtime that first week, Jim made 30 pounds – which he threw into the air with happy tears in his eyes, pulling Evelyn into a bear hug. It seemed they may have made the right decision to move to Australia.

One of Mr Oakley’s four children, Irene Neville, says her dad still has a sharp wit despite his age.

“He is very quick witted and always manages a clever remark to family and friends. He is very chilled, and nothing seems to faze him. They [Jim and Evelyn] seem to have settled into the lifestyle of their new home,” Ms Neville told the Moorabool News.

“Their health has now improved, and they are getting more exercise now that they walk to and from the dining area three times a day. They have the opportunity to talk to lots of people throughout the day, and engage in social activities.”

Today, Jim and Evelyn Oakley live in the Residential Aged Care in Melton South, making the move from their home in Bacchus Marsh around four months ago.

Evelyn and Jim Oakley celebrate Jim’s 100th with daughter Irene at the October 17 Probus meeting. Photo - Submitted

Two charged – pursuit ends in Wallace

Two men have been charged after allegedly driving a vehicle at police officers in Glen Park last Friday morning.

How safe is your farm?

Neighbourhood Watch is expanding on an app released this year, helping protect farmers from the increasing threat of farm crime and property theft.

Similar to ‘How Safe Is My Place’, which provides homeowners with tips on reducing the risk of break-ins and theft, ‘How Safe Is My Farm’ has been launched this month as a free tool for farmers.

“How Safe Is My Farm is an extension of our How Safe Is My Place series of resources, that educate Victorians of the simple things we can do to prevent being a victim of crime,” Neighbourhood Watch Victoria CEO Bambi Gordon said.

“Farmers need only take 5 to 10 minutes to review the safety and security of their farm, from gates and fences, sheds and vehicles, gun storage, security of stock. The comprehensive ‘audit’ will then generate a report full of suggestions for actions farmers can take to secure their property.”

Co-Director of the Centre for Rural Criminology at the University of New England, Dr Alistair Harkness, said the How

Safe Is My Farm tool was an “invaluable” resource for farmers.

“Thefts from farms have enormous social and economic impacts. It can be costly, disruptive, and mentally straining. So, the best way to avoid becoming a victim of farm crime is to do what is possible to prevent offending from happening in the first place,” Dr Harkness said.

“It [How Safe Is My Farm] lets farmers conduct an audit of their own – to see where vulnerabilities might exist and for farmers to think carefully about what crime prevention measures might be implemented to improve security.”

How Safe Is My Farm was developed with the advice and assistance of Victoria Police’s Farm Crime Coordination Unit, and was made possible with the support of Neighbourhood Watch Victoria’s partner, RACV.

For more information and to access How Safe Is My Farm, visit www.howsafeismyplace. com.au/farm/.

PREPARING FOR

To assist residents

Moorabool

There is no restriction

Residents

To

fire-season

Undergrowth and

Leaves

Branches

Greenwaste

The

Officers sighted the green Hyundai sedan on 28 October, near the intersection of White Swan and Glenisla Roads just after 5.30am.

It’s alleged three police officers were out of their vehicle when the Hyundai drove towards them.

The officers jumped out of the way to avoid being struck and the vehicle allegedly fled the scene at a high speed.

Police pursued the Hyundai through numerous suburbs where it came to a stop at the end of the Western Highway in Wallace.

Two men surrendered to officers and were arrested at the scene.

A 30-year-old Wendouree man has been charged with theft of motor vehicle, aggravated reckless exposure to police officer to risk by driving, reckless conduct endangering life, dangerous driving whilst pursued by police, fail to stop on police direction, handle stolen goods and unlicensed driving.

He was remanded to appear before Ballarat Magistrates’ Court yesterday, 31 October 2022.

A 35-year-old Sebastopol man has been charged with aggravated burglary, two counts of theft of motor vehicle, theft from motor vehicle and reckless conduct endangering life.

He was also remanded to appear before Ballarat Magistrates’ Court yesterday, 31 October 2022.

SEASON:

Transfer Station Locations: Osborne Street, Bacchus Marsh

Open: 10

Closed: Tuesday,

Monteville Lane, Ballan Open: 1

Closed: Tuesday

Ballan-Egerton Road, Mount Egerton

Closed:

Letters to the Editor

Dear Editor,

My letter is directed to the readers of the Moorabool News. Whatever your past actions in the community campaign to stop AusNet’s overhead transmission towers from cutting across our community, now is the time to show your objection to the Andrew’s Labor government in a way that they won’t be able to ignore.

The next time I raise my hand in opposition to the Western Victorian Transmission Network Project (WVTNP) will be when I cast my vote on 26 November, and it is not

going to be for the current representatives. I want them out, and I want to vote in someone who will listen and act in favour of our rural communities, not just run interference for Daniel Andrew’s Melbourne-centric energy agenda.

Michaela Settle, Steve McGhie and Lily D’Ambrosio have never taken ‘ownership’ of the WVTNP, never shown real leadership or courage to call the project to account. It is clear to me that they don’t want to take responsibility for it. Despite their platitudes they have been unwilling, or unable, to

effectively represent our concerns and

Recent rebranding of the WVTNP as the Western Renewables Link is a cynical exercise to try and distance the project from the past two years of Stop AusNet Tower’s community criticism. This is all that our current representatives can claim to have influenced, but they haven’t reduced the expected impact of this blight one bit. They all agree that the decision process that agreed the current design of the WVTNP was flawed – yet in the face of extensive community representation they have refused to redress it.

This election is the opportunity to give them what they deserve, and that is, to absolve them of this responsibility and remove them from government. We need to elect new representatives who understand and care about the impacts that the current overhead transmission design will have on our communities. We need representatives who understand that government should be in the business of delivering ‘win-win’ solutions for all Victorians, not just for Melbourne electricity consumers, energy generators and AusNet.

I encourage readers to join me in rebuking the current Labor representatives and getting a better voice for the Eureka and Melton communities.

Jim Phasey Myrniong

Dear Editor,

Having travelled over many roads and highways in the region, including Moorabool, in recent times I am reminded of being about a 10-year old lad (many decades ago) at the local Show driving “Dodgem Cars”. Weaving in and out to miss another “Dodgem Car” was great fun but driving our roads today is a safety nightmare. With the current state government cutting road maintenance funds to local municipal councils over recent years we have seen the collapse of our regional and rural road systems.

On a recent trip to Melbourne, I noted the construction of great new freeways with very fancy sound barrier fencing which must

have cost squillions of dollars to design and construct to a gold medal standard.

I ask “Why can Melbourne get such great assets whilst we in regional Victoria get nothing short of crappy broken down roads and highways?” (We regional folks know just where Premier Dan is spending his money and it certainly is not in the Moorabool region.)

A recent photo showed 14 cars parked beside a local highway, each with two damaged wheels after hitting a dirty great big pothole, waiting to be towed to the nearest tyre repair shop.

It is no use blaming the wet weather and the floods for all of this either.

The opposition has promised $1 billion of road funding to regional and rural municipalities each year for ten years if elected, whilst Dan Andrews is intent on cutting funds in regional and rural areas to pay for his precious rail tunnel project and other projects in Melbourne.

It’s just not good enough and our regions deserve better.

Paul Jenkins Alfredton

Dear Editor, Graham Short is spot on (M/News 18 Oct – Letter to the Editor). This town is dismal. There is no supporting infrastructure, the streets are untidy, there is no follow through regarding the nature strip guidelines, (of which most are ridiculous and don’t encourage beautification), hence unruly overgrown streetscapes. I believe Council take no pride, so why would residents. There isn’t a flowerpot to be seen in Main Street and Christmas decor is almost non-existent. Take a look at Riddells Creek, Gisborne, Romsey and others. They make our area look like a forgotten dump. I am ashamed of this town. I no longer ask people to visit.

Limited shops - only tattoo parlours, $2 junk shops and nail salons. Not even a decent place to sit and enjoy our natural surroundings while sipping coffee or wine.

M Sheridan Bacchus Marsh

Blank Canvas farming/lifestyle opportunity

Adrian Smith M 0400 178 945

Tony Shanahan M 0408 519

adrian.smith@nutrien.com.au Nutrien Harcourts

Online

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 news@themooraboolnews.com.au

Local photographers snap up awards

By Lachlan Ellis

winners have received awards for their fantastic photography at an annual photo competition, with five entrants being awarded Grand Prizes worth more than $5,000 in total.

The winners of the Lal Lal Moorabool Photography Group (LLMPG) 2022 Photography Competition were announced at Lal Lal Primary School on Wednesday 19 October.

Secretary of the LLMPG, Kristina Kitchingman, said it was exciting to have people at an in-person event again.

“The judges were all blown away with this year’s entries, the level just went up again, as it does every year. We had a lot of new people entering, people that hadn’t entered before, because it was online…it welcomed a whole new demographic, I think,” Ms Kitchingman told the Moorabool News.

“We didn’t have meetings for two years, so it was really nice to be able to award the winners in-person, and meet those new faces we hadn’t met before. We had 510 entries come in,

so there was a lot to go through, that’s for sure. On average, we probably get 300 to 320 in-person.”

Winning Grand Prizes were Lyn Steele (Grand Open), Brooke Howells (Grand Novice), Waka from Lal Lal Primary School (Grand Youth), Kate Fetherston (Mayor’s Choice), and Karlee Litchfield (People’s Choice).

Ms Steele and Ms Fetherston won a $1,000 Camera House Voucher each, with Waka winning a $1,500 Camera House Voucher, and Ms Howells won a $1,350 training voucher from David Bailey Photography & Training.

For getting the most votes and winning the People’s Choice Award, Ms Litchfield was awarded a $500 Camera House Voucher.

To view some of the magnificent entries into the LLMPG 2022 Photographic Competition, head to www.lallalphotogroup. org and click ‘Gallery’.

Ms Kitchingman thanked sponsors David Bailey Photography & Training, Buninyong & District Community Bank, Moorabool Shire Council, and the Geelong Camera House for making the competition possible.

Brooke Howells won the Grand Novice Award with ‘Just hanging around’.

Lyn Steele won the Grand Open Award with her photo ‘Rocklands Reserve’

Karlee Litchfield’s ‘Country Kid‘ got the most votes in the People’s Choice category, earning her a $500 Camera House voucher.

Waka from Lal Lal Primary scored a $1,500 Camera House voucher with an eponymous photo.

Kate Fetherston’s ‘The Acoustic Dream‘ caught Mayor Cr Tom Sullivan’s eye, earning her a $1,000 Camera House voucher.

Photos Lal Lal Moorabool Photographic Group

An important family decision requires extra consideration and perhaps a new point of view. Your shopping expertise is at a peak. Cultural activities blend well with romance.

LEO—July 23-August 22

A budding relationship begins to blossom. Intuition is especially strong early in the week but should not be relied on exclusively. Romance and travel may blend very well.

Stars & Puzzles

VIRGO—August 23-September 22

A platonic friendship is highlighted during the weekend. You may be defeating your own purpose by trying to spare someone from the truth. Recent detective work pays off.

LIBRA—September 23-October 22

A workmate may respond negatively to your ideas, but this is strictly a short lived trend. Your artistic streak surfaces and your talents could lead to modest profits

SCORPIO—October 23-November 21

ARIES—March 21-April 20

Wednesday - Thursday sees you experimenting with a new approach to a relationship. By Friday you will know if the tactics worked. You could find yourself winding up as a mediator in a family dispute.

TAURUS—April 21-May 22

Your ingenious ideas may backfire but don’t hesitate to devise new schemes - you are bound to come up with a winner. The romantic situation stabilizes before improving gradually.

GEMINI—May 23-June 21

The family budget requires careful review, with the accent on long term goals. Some interesting plans are in the works but don’t divulge details prematurely. The romance situation brightens.

CANCER—June 22-July 22

ACROSS

1.Enlargement (13)

8.Lived (5)

9.Whim (7)

10.Fruit (6)

(6)

(5)

(6)

(5)

(6)

(7)

(5)

(13)

CRYPTIC PUZZLE

ACROSS

DOWN

(6)

(5)

(5)

(7)

(7)

(4)

(6)

(7)

(6)

(6)

(5)

(4)

(3-4)

(5)

1. Sorow at having drunk all that beer last night? (6,7). 8. Jumped and broke a plate (5). 9. Having bleached one’s hair and lost some weight? (7). 10. Would they not play a big part in the film of a test match? (6). 11. You’ll have a ball when you’ve bought it! (6). 12. Put down on paper, it sounds correct (5). 14. Yet lacking in sparkle (5). 18. Sit back, girl, with paper (6). 20. He’ll supply you provisionally (6). 23. Foolish since I have had one over the eight (7). 24. Courage you’ll know you have if you go to the dentist! (5). 25. Wearing a gun? (7.2.4).

DOWN

1. Ran away when locked up (6). 2. Characteristic of a backward boy it is (5). 3. Passage taken from a pamphlet (7). 4. Register the cylindrical package (4). 5. A power that’s problematical? (5). 6. Remedy if the hearing is faulty (7). 7. Make one see red as a green, perhaps (6). 13. Peter is arranging a postponement (7). 15. A Spanish bull is not allowed to roam about in Canada (7). 16. Abandon in London (6).

to water for George (6). 19. The ones the sun revolved round, it would be (5).

A note other than A,B,D.E or F, I find, pet (5). 22. A clue in the form of a strip of leather (4).

QUICK SOLUTIONS

Across - 1, Straight. 6, Base. 8, Lamp. 9, Standard. 10, Heart. 11, Eleven. 13, Scolds. 15, Strays. 17, Proper. 19, Boast. 22, Terrible. 23, Tale. 24, Stay. 25, Distress.

- 2, Trade. 3, Apparel. 4, Gust. 5, Traverse. 6, Budge. 7, Sorcery. 12, Ascribed. 14, Correct. 16, Rooster. 18, Party. 20, Sales. 21, Weds.

CRYPTIC

An important family decision requires extra consideration and perhaps a new point of view. Your shopping expertise is at a peak. Cultural activities blend well with romance.

LEO—July 23-August 22

A budding relationship begins to blossom. Intuition is especially strong early in the week but should not be relied on exclusively. Romance and travel may blend very well.

VIRGO—August 23-September 22

A platonic friendship is highlighted during the weekend. You may be defeating your own purpose by trying to spare someone from the truth. Recent detective work pays off.

LIBRA—September 23-October 22

A workmate may respond negatively to your ideas, but this is strictly a short lived trend. Your artistic streak surfaces and your talents could lead to modest profits

SUDOKU

SCORPIO—October 23-November 21

This week, the focus is on reconciliations. The weekend accents maintenance around the home - avoid using second rate products. Thursday - Friday highlights new interests, especially those related to education or culture.

SAGITTARIUS—November 22-December 22

You may have to assert your authority before a tricky situation explodes. Your idea or invention is brought to the attention of an interested and influential party.

CAPRICORN—December 23-January 20

A series of obligations should be met by the end of this week. Vitality is at a peak and your wit shines. A romantically upbeat phase is under way.

AQUARIUS—January 21-February 19

Romance favours a commonsense approach. Self discipline is important if you are to realize a career or academic goal. Company from out of town may arrive unexpectedly on the weekend.

PISCES—February 20-March 20

You are excellent at finding bargains and making sales pitches. Some people may expect the impossible from you, so don’t hesitate to explain your situation. Meeting new friends is highlighted now.

BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK

You enjoy making changes, you are sensitive to the needs and ideas of others and you are very protective. You are sometimes too cautious and you find it hard to forgive. A greater willingness to take modest occasional risks can pay off in various areas of your life. A career shift may happen sooner than later.

GAME

This week, the focus is on reconciliations. The weekend accents maintenance around the home - avoid using second rate products. Thursday - Friday highlights new interests, especially those related to education or culture.

SAGITTARIUS—November 22-December 22

You may have to assert your authority before a tricky situation explodes. Your idea or invention is brought to the attention of an interested and influential party.

CAPRICORN—December 23-January 20

A series of obligations should be met by the end of this week. Vitality is at a peak and your wit shines. A romantically upbeat phase is under way.

AQUARIUS—January 21-February 19

Romance favours a commonsense approach. Self discipline

important

you are to realize a career or academic

from out of town may arrive unexpectedly on the weekend.

PISCES—February 20-March 20

You are excellent

the impossible from

hesitate to explain your situation. Meeting

BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK

Stable.23,Attache.24,Niece.25,Sophisticated.

ons.11,Inside.12,Under.14,Stalk.18,Menance.20,

Across-1,Magnification.8,Dwelt.9,Caprice.10,Lem-

- 1, Pull-over. 6, Aire (air). 8, Eton (rev.). 9, Stampede. 10, Train. 11, Hangar. 13, Alight). 15, Nailed (anag.). 17, Lap-dog. 19, Score. 22, Sham-rock. 23, Time. 24, Iris. 25, Ex-posing. Down - 2, Utter. 3, L-and-ing. 4, (de)Vast(ation). 5, Reach-ing. 6, As-pen. 7, Red-tape. 12, Stage one (anag.). 14, Leather. 16, In-cites. 18, Dumps. 20, Ram-on. 21, Skip).

you are very protective. You are sometimes too cautious and you find it hard to forgive. A greater willingness to take modest occasional risks can pay off in various areas of your life. A career shift may happen sooner than later.

GARAGE SALE

HUGE GARAGE

126 School

Antiques,

•

•

DEATH NOTICE

SHANAHAN – Patricia Anne ‘Pat’

– 22.10.2022

Dearly loved wife of Frank (dec).

mother & mother-in-law to Therese & Marc, Brendan & Kirstie, Debra & Clint and Marita & Shawn. Adored nana of Loren, Elise, Chloe, James, Sophy, Bridie, Jade, Emma, Keira and Lexi.

FUNERAL NOTICE

SHANAHAN –

Requiem Mass for the Repose of the Soul of the late Mrs Patricia Anne ‘Pat’ Shanahan will be held at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church, Lerderderg St, Bacchus Marsh on THURSDAY (November 3, 2022) commencing at 11.00am.

the Mass, Pat

the Maddingley Cemetery, Bacchus

THE CARE OF

CARER/HOME HELP

The

held

12th

Diesel Mechanic

Work close to home

Well maintained

Diesel Mechanic

-

-

Christian's Bus Company is a bus service provider who has been operating in several locations across regional Victoria for over 30 years.

CANTEEN SERVICE

Pentland Primary School Council is seeking the services of an innovative and professional contractor who will deliver a high-quality canteen and general catering service to the school community.

The term of the contract is for a two-year period, commencing in Term 1, 2023.

Interested parties should contact the school for a detailed tender specification.

TENDERS CLOSE AT 4:00pm

ON 30 NOVEMBER 2022 Ph 5367 6080

Email: Pentland.PS@education.vic.gov.au

Christian's Bus Company is a bus service provider who has been operating in several locations across regional Victoria for over 30 years.

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.

In 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.

Interested? If you would like more information please contact the Recruitment Officer on 0438 590 026 or to apply email careers@christiansbus.com.au as soon as possible.

Classifieds/Sport

Ballan Brumbies Basketball

BEDSIDE

OFFICER MATERNITY LEAVE

Last weekend’s basketball action saw Ballan Brumbies Under 14 Boys D take on Saints Pelicans in a closely contested affair.

The teams traded baskets in the opening stages, or to be more accurate, Saints forward Jed James and Brumbies guard Trinder exchanged makes, both boys scoring tough baskets on slaloming drives to the hoop.

The teams continued to trade baskets, this time Micah Oswin converting from close range before Ballan responded through a Noah Ranieri drive.

Saints star Caius Bull started to asset his authority on the game, powering his way to the hoop, the Brumbies boys only able to illegally impede him. That, in turn, created foul issues for Ballan as both point guard Kristian Seketa and centre Eamonn Grigg picked up three fouls apiece. Bull shot the ball well from the free throw line, making three straight to push the Saints out to a 9-6 lead.

Ballan closed the half strongly, however. A Seketa jump shot was quickly followed by another Trinder drive and a Ranieri score from an offensive rebound as Ballan took a 12-9 lead into the break, despite Seketa being generally well held and the talismanic Lucas Cardona being blanketed by the Saints defense.

The Brumbies started the second half well as Cardona began to break the shackles, carving his way to the basket. His radar, however, was malfunctioning as he missed a series of gettable chances. Seketa, though, connected on a nifty layup under pressure, then hitting a pretty mid range jumpshot.

The dangerous Elliott Bourke, kept quiet to this point by Ballan, finally opened his account to get Saints rolling in the half. That brought Bull back to life, the powerful guard hitting three consecutive baskets to turn the game on it’s head, putting Saints back in just as Ballan threatened to run away with things. Ranieri cleaned up an Isaac Healey miss to stop Saints run.

Saints were laying off Trinder to thwart the threat of his quick-stepping drives to the hoop but he made them pay with a long jump shot. Seketa then got to the line, converting the back end of his free throws to put Ballan back in the lead. A long three pointer from Bourke gave Saints the lead in a seesawing contest, Ranieri putting Ballan back in front 21-20 with a fast break layup.

As the game entered its final 90 seconds both teams attacked the basket with vigour. Bull converted a layup through traffic to put

Saints back in front before a mazy run and finish from Trinder restored Ballan’s lead. The Brumbies defense broke down as James found Oswin for an uncontested layup with under a minute to play before Seketaplaying a splendid second half - took on the defense. He diminutive lefty beat his man off the dribble, spun expertly around a second defender and connected a difficult fall away jump shot to give Ballan the lead with just 30 seconds to play.

The Brumbies stood firm as Saints tried to steal the game away, deflecting a series of passes before Morris untimely intercepted a loose pass and ran out the clock on a hard fought 25-24 win in a most entertaining match.

** 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 4 lost Excies Acmy 27

Ballan C 42 def Phoenix Lions 2

Under 12 Boys

Ballan E 10 def Saints Mavs 8

Ballan C 28 lost Celtic Tigers 30

Under 12 Girls

Ballan 21 def Saints Mystics 12

Under 14 Boys

Ballan F 17 lost Phoenix Titans 21

Ballan D 25 def Saints Pelicans 24

Ballan C 54 def Celtic Tigers 17

Under 14 Girls

Ballan D 18 def Excies Acmy 6

Ballan C 87 def Celtic Tigers 2

Under 16 Boys

Ballan F White 27 lost Phoenix Rollers 28

Ballan F Blue 5 lost Saints Falcons 57 Ballan D 33 def Sovereign Knights 30 Ballan C 64 def Wildcats 52

Under 19 Boys

Ballan F 27 lost Phoenix Flyers 43

Ballan D 46 def Phoenix Lions 38

Ballan C 28 lost Excies Acmy 33

Under 19 Girls

Ballan 28 drew Celtic Tigers 28

BIRD

suit small birds, good condition, $20 Ph 0467 488 414

BLACK AND WHITE SKULL $20. Ph: 0423252922

BOARD GAME Nightmare, very good condition $25. Ph: 0423252922

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

BOOKCASE, pine, height 2.14m x 0.92m width, 0.63m depth, good condition $100 Ph 0401 085 454

BOOKS, Beadwork, embroidery, papercrafts, cardmaking, quilting, sewing, smocking, crocheting, knitting, etc. FREE - 0402 217 265

BOOTS Size 8 brown boots worn once $80 – 0423 252 922

BOOTS, Black Combat size 12, worn once $50. Ph: 0423252922

BREVILLE Toaster, 4 Slice, $5 Ph: 0490 066 551

BUFFET with glass shelf, two glass sliding doors, one drawer underneath, $100. Ph: 0455 632 593

CDS, 9 black metal $90 will separate 0423252922.

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

CUPBOARDS, 2 large storage cupboards, free, brown/tan, good condition, very tall. Ph: 0437 243 675 or 5367 2382

DEHUMIDIFIER smart dry plus E/C $15. Ph: 5368 1844

DISPLAY CABINET. Pine GC. $99 ph. 0413152448

DISPLAY UNIT, Ikea, white, five shelf, 1 door, GC, $40 Ph 0412 473 506

FISHING KNIFE Set Mojiko in carry case $50 ph 0447 672 218 FOOT STOOL , Beige patterned material $10 Ph 0423252922

FRAMED PICTURES (9) pictures of the Joker (Heath Ledger) $60 lot – 0423 252 922

FRIDGE/FREEZER Hisense 230Lt capacity, 1456 x 550 x 605mm in good condition $1000403 300037

GEMINI motor, good condition, plus five speed gearbox, $90. Ph: 0412 171 071

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

HEATER , electric, 4 fin oil filled, E/C $15. Ph: 5368 1844

HI VIS VEST, Orange with zip, brand new $10. 0423252922

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

LOUNGE SUITE , 2-seater, and 2 round chairs, material salmon in colour, very clean, free. Ph: 0431 161 775

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

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

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

PRINTER and copier, HP Lazer Jet Pro MFP M521dn in working condition. $100 Ph 0407 444 444 SAND, free, about 1 metre, comes in barrel Ph 0413374714

SCHOOL DESK , 2 seater, wooden with flip up lid. Very good condition $100 0423252922

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

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

TABLE , Retro and six black chairs $80 0423252922

VEGEMITE glasses, Limited edition, 10 small and 4 large. $100 the lot ($180 on eBay). 0402 217 265

WORK BOOTS, Black Cougar steel cap brand new size 12, $50. Ph: 0423252922

Bacchus Marsh Little Athletics

After last Saturday’s wash out, the Centre endeavoured to complete the annual Combined Event at Thursday night’s Twilight Meet, unfortunately the weather once again turned for the worse and the rescheduled meet was cancelled.

Athletes then returned to Masons Lane Reserve for the regular Saturday morning meet. Thankfully the forecast was a little better and competition was quickly underway.

Athletes competed in blustery winds, the odd light showers and some very appreciated sunshine. In the unpredictable conditions athletes recorded a very impressive 200 Personal Best results.

PB Stars of the Week were awarded to Saatvik Dwarampudi, Bowie Clarke, Millicent Johansen, Angus Jacobson, Mia Hendry, Meekah Barrie, Aurora Browney and Aarav Moorthy.

The Centre received some great news during the week with Coles Ambassador and Australian Olympian Matthew Denny flying down from Queensland visiting the Centre for Coles Community Round on Saturday 19th November.

Matt is an Olympian Finalist, World Championship Finalist, Commonwealth Games gold and silver medallist, World Youth Champion, and nine-time National Champion.

Next Saturday’s Centre meet will be Program 1 commencing at 8.45am. Boomerangs Club are on set-up duty.

Lady takes Queen Of The Pacific

By Tim O'Connor

The time-honoured Miracle Mile was revealed as one of Ladies In Red’s big major targets after her dominant victory in last Saturday night’s Benstud Standardbreds Queen Of The Pacific (2760m).

The Emma Stewart-trained superstar added a sixth Group 1 success to her resume by triumphing in the third and final leg of the Elizabeth Clarke Mares Triple Crown at Tabcorp Park Melton.

The result took the mighty mare’s career record to 21 wins from 26 starts and lifted her prizemoney earnings up over $860,000. Most had New South Wales visitor Braeview Kelly finding the lead from barrier five and that’s how it panned out, but few would have expected Stewart-trained Tough Tilly to land a place in behind her on the pegs from barrier six.

When this happened, David Moran decided to roll forward from the back row with Ladies In Red, and was allowed to glide to the front by Braeview Kelly’s driver Anthony Butt.

And from there, the race was in the daughter of Mach Three’s keeping. She controlled the speed from the lead before ripping home in slashing final sections of 27.7sec and 27.8sec to score a convincing 4.4m victory over Tough Tilly.

Speaking post-race, Stewart said she was “very proud” of Ladies In Red, who has been forced to do it tough in many of her recent starts due to second row draws.

“She hasn’t been able to find the front in any of her races lately, so it’s been awfully hard for her,” Stewart said.

“When she found the front, she was always going to be hard to beat.

“Her work this week had been super and she was feeling pretty good before the race.”

Ladies In Red also secured a $10,000 bonus for connections with her overall win in the Elizabeth Clarke Mares Triple Crown series. She topped the leaderboard after a second placing in The Make Mine Cullen (October 8), and with her victories in the Angelique Club Pace (October 21) and Queen Of The Pacific.

Saturday night was a huge one for Stewart and her team, which also prepared Hector, Khafaji, Techys Watching and Act Now – who claimed the Group 2 Catanach’s Jewellers 4YO and 5YO Championship – to prevail on the Tabcorp Park card.

Another major Myrniong moment

By Michael Howard (HRV)

A tradition of success was reinstalled on Redwood Day as Don Smith teamed with the Tubbs family to capture another Group 1 moment.

Having enjoyed a thrilling run with Alan Tubbs-trained Melpark Mark a tick over a decade earlier, Smith returned to the winners’ circle with Tubbs’ daughters trainer Jess (Myrniong) and co-owner Amy (Gordon) to capture the Aldebaran Park Redwood Classic.

Cognati, bred in Victoria by David Scott, flew the start while others miss-stepped and then cleared out in the run home to capture the $50,000 crown, with fillies filling the first three placings.

Reinsman Greg Sugars, who shares Larajay Farms at Myrniong with Jess Tubbs, was rapt post-race and told TrotsVision they’d “liked her from day one”.

“We picked her out of the yearling sales, and all credit goes

to my sister-in-law

Amy (Tubbs), she’s the one who saw her first and said you’d better come and have a look at this girl,” Sugars said. “She’s been my favourite ever since.

“(Don Smith) got in touch with us on our way home from the sale and said 'do you need anyone to take a share, because I wouldn’t mind being in the stable again?'

“We were more than happy obviously to have him involved with the Tubbs girls with their previous connection with Melpark Major. A lot of special moments there, so really pleased he could join our team and we can get a few special moments of our own.”

Despite beginning from the back row of the standing start, Sugars was able to soon work his way to the front of affairs on Cognati, aided in part by the mistakes of others including fancied pair Susan Is Her Name and The Locomotive. Sugars withstood an early challenge by Rockinwithattitude, which petered out when the latter broke, but young reinsman Jayden Barker was able to steady up, settle four back and then

challenge again from the breeze in the final lap.

However, Rockinwithattitude’s campaign was snuffed out at the final bend when he broke again, this time disadvantaged after Cognati veered out, and the leader was able to scoot away for an eight-metre win ahead of Valerie Lane and Susan Is Her Name, who recovered well after her costly, early miss-step.

“(Cognati)’s always been exceptional, her manners have been sensational basically right from the word go, apart from veering off the track late – that’s a bad habit that she’s just got in to,” Sugars said.

“It’s kind of half put a sour taste in my mouth, I apologise to connections of Rockinwithattitude for what happened at the top of the straight there.

“Once we got through the traffic early she just felt like the winner from a long way out. She’s an incredibly good horse to deal with and train. You couldn’t ask for a better horse. Just a great doing horse, great type. We love her.”

Boys Under 8’s at the start of the 300m race. Photo – BMLAC

Ladies in Red won at Tabcorp Park on Saturday. Photo Stuart McCormick

Cognati winning the Redwood Classic at Maryborough. Photo Stuart McCormick