Moorabool News 22 November 2022

Decorating bare walls

By Lachlan Ellis

A new mural is being launched in Bacchus Marsh, planned as the first in a series of artworks celebrating local wildlife and the environment.

The Bacchus Marsh Platypus Alliance is launching its mural at the wall of the Bacchus Marsh Outdoor Pool on Sunday 27 November from 1 to 2 pm, with kids’ activities, platypus-themed displays, and short talks about the animals in the mural.

Painted by renowned mural artist Lukas Kasper, the vibrant mural features not only our local platypus, but also a range of other fauna and flora including the growling grass frog, purple crowned lorikeet, river red gum, and Bacchus Marsh wattle.

President of the Bacchus Marsh Platypus Alliance, Jodie Valpied, said the mural launch was an exciting first step in a bigger arts project.

“The fabulous, vibrant mural celebrates our local platypus and some of the other native animals and plants that live along the Werribee River through Bacchus Marsh. It is the first mural to be installed for our 'Platypus Arts Trail', which aims to connect community members and visitors to our special local environment, wildlife, and flora through the arts,” Dr Valpied

told the Moorabool News.

“The 'Platypus Arts Trail' is a joint initiative of Bacchus Marsh Platypus Alliance and Moorabool Environment Group, led by Bacchus Marsh Platypus Alliance. We are very grateful to the sponsors who helped this mural happen: Moorabool Shire Council (Community Arts & Culture Grant), Community Bank Bacchus Marsh, and Melbourne Water.”

For more information on the mural launch head to bit.ly/platypus-mural-launch-2022.

The vibrant new mural at Peppertree Park showcases the Bacchus Marsh area’s beautiful flora and fauna. Photo – Lachlan Ellis

Teen to wear green and gold

A rising star in the field hockey scene will be wearing green and gold next month, and she’s from Moorabool Shire.

Darley’s Zali Ward was named in the national side’s National Development Squad in March, and was part of the Victorian Women’s Premier League champions Essendon side in September – and now she’s been named in the squad taking on New Zealand in two weeks.

The 19-year old was named in the 18-person Australian Under 21 Women’s squad, also known as the Jillaroos, on 7 November, with the team beginning the Oceania Junior World Qualifiers in Canberra on Thursday 8 December. She said being selected in the national squad was a dream come true.

“It’s pretty exhilarating to think about the fact I’m able to represent my country, especially at a junior level. It’s an exciting time as an up-and-coming athlete, there’s a lot of opportunity to grow my confidence,” Ms Ward told the Moorabool News.

“My family and friends are over the moon too, they’re super proud and all their support over the years, and their encouragement to keep going and follow my dream, has really paid off.

“I don’t think it’s sunk in yet, it doesn’t really happen I think until you step onto the pitch. At the moment, I’ll just focus on my role and hopefully gel into the team quite well, that’s the aim.”

Ms Ward is also in the middle of the Hockey One finals playing for HC Melbourne, after which she will take part in two weeks of training and then heading to camp on Sunday 4 December.

By virtue of there being two spots for Oceanian teams, and Australia and New Zealand being the only two Oceanian teams competing in the qualifiers, the Jillaroos will automatically qualify for the World Cup, but Jillaroos coach Stacia Strain said the team will still be “taking the tournament really seriously”.

“There aren’t many opportunities for the Junior World Cup eligible girls to practise tournament mode, so for us it’s about making the most of the opportunity. A lot of these girls

haven’t played for Australia, so for them to sing the national anthem, wear the green and gold…it’s about understanding what comes with that and what the Jillaroos and this pathway program is about,” Ms Strain said.

The Jillaroos play New Zealand on 8 December, 10 December, and 11 December, and the 2023 Women’s Hockey Junior World Cup kicks off in Santiago, Chile next December.

Letters to the Editor

Dear Editor,

Out of the blue this week I received a text message from Michaela Settle, my elected representative, the member for Buninyong for the past four years. Given that I have been critical of her efforts in recent weeks, I wondered what it was that she wanted to tell me.

Was it to offer me empathetic answers to questions I have posed asking why her government is insisting AusNet inflict the Western Renewables Link (WRL) overhead transmission lines on us? No.

Was it to offer, finally, after two years of lobbying, to bring Lily D’Ambrosio out to Melton, Darley, Myrniong, Greendale, Springbank and Newlyn to discuss renewable energy transmission options with community members? No.

Was it to explain how Dan Andrews’ idea of a reborn State Electricity Commission is going to be able to compete ethically to supply cheaper electricity in a competitive commercial energy market? Again, no.

Was she wanting to reassure me that the personal data that I had supplied in my letters, that she had collected, was safe and being used only for … for what? No again.

Michaela Settle did not answer my questions, nor escalate my concerns about overhead transmission lines to Lily and Dan for action, nor offer me insights into Dan’s plan for the future. All she did was use my personal data to text me with advice on how I could vote early for her and Dan Andrews and Labor.

Will I? Not likely! Would you?

Jim Phasey Myrniong

Zali Ward in her HC Melbourne colours. Photo – Hockey Victoria

Stabbing in local park

Resting poppy restless

By Lachlan Ellis

Council and the Bacchus Marsh RSL have come to an impasse over plans for a memorial project, with the RSL’s proposal to move it closer to town rejected.

The Resting Poppy Memorial project is currently planned to be located at the Avenue of Honour, but the RSL has recently asked for it to be located at the Village Green, which Moorabool Shire Council has refused.

Council CEO Derek Madden said the Village Green wasn’t a suitable spot for the memorial to go, given its size.

“The Resting Poppy project is a proposal by the Bacchus Marsh RSL. The agreed site for installation is the gateway to the Avenue of Honour. The location has been identified in consultation with the RSL, Council, VicRoads and Heritage Victoria. The memorial footprint is 5.8 metres wide by 30 metres long, so a large space is needed to accommodate its size,” Mr Madden told the Moorabool News.

“We’d really love to give that to the community, it’s not going to cost the ratepayer any money. We’ll raise it hopefully from residents, and from our fundraising, we’ve already saved some money towards it,” she said.

“We feel that those that went to war from Bacchus Marsh and surrounds need something.”

By Lachlan Ellis

A teenage boy was stabbed in Bacchus Marsh last week, with an investigation into the circumstances of the attack ongoing.

Bennett Street in Bacchus Marsh was temporarily closed after the incident, with police confirming that a boy had been stabbed last Wednesday morning.

Fortunately, the victim wasn’t killed in the attack.

“Police were called to Bennett Street, Bacchus Marsh about 11.20 am on Wednesday 16 November, after reports a teenage boy had been stabbed in the stomach. On arrival police located the boy, and he has been taken to hospital for treatment with serious but non-life-threatening injuries,” a police spokesperson told the Moorabool News.

“Investigators believe the teen was involved in an altercation with a group of males prior to being stabbed. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.”

If you have any information on the stabbing, please contact Bacchus Marsh Police Station on 5366 4500.

Vote this Saturday and help shape Victoria

When you go to vote you’ll be given two ballot papers, a small ballot paper for the Lower House (Legislative Assembly) and a large ballot paper for the Upper House (Legislative Council). Read the instructions carefully.

Small ballot paper for the Lower House You must number ALL the boxes on this ballot paper. Put the number 1 in the box next to the candidate you most want to see elected. Then number all the other boxes in the order of your choice.

Large ballot paper for the Upper House

For the Upper House you can vote in one of two ways. Either vote for a party or group by putting the number 1 in just one of the boxes above the line. Or vote for individual candidates by putting the numbers 1 to at least 5 in the boxes below the line. You may continue numbering more than 5 if you wish.

Where to vote

It is easier to vote in your own district, but if you will not be in your district on Saturday, you can vote at any other voting centre in Victoria. For information on where to find your nearest voting centre, please scan the QR code below or visit vec.vic.gov.au.

Who can vote

All Australian citizens aged 18 or over who have lived in Victoria for at least a month will be able to cast a vote at a voting centre, even if you missed the close of roll. If you are not on the roll, you should bring proof of identity with you. Evidence of identity includes an Australian driver licence or learner permit, an Australian passport, a council rates notice or a current electricity bill showing your name and address.

Remember, voting is compulsory

Voting centres open Saturday 8 am to 6 pm

Eureka District

Bacchus Marsh (AWA)

“The Village Green – a large open space and home to a number of community events and activities – is not the best fit for this memorial, but we are in discussion with the RSL about the alternative option of installing a mural facing the Village Green or a smaller art piece in between the RSL and Town Hall to achieve a central presence.”

But the RSL says the Avenue of Honour site isn’t fit for purpose, and is too far away for what the RSL wants to do with it.

Sheila Freeman from the RSL has advocated for the Resting Poppy to be located within a ‘Community Peace Garden’, which would include murals, bricks with the names of local servicemen, servicewomen, and locals who donated to the project, as well as tables and seats.

“By having the Resting Poppy in its current proposed site, it will be impossible to have ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day services in that location due to the lack of parking, and it will be physically impossible for residents to walk to the location,” Ms Freeman argues.

“By moving it or an alternative, to the Village Green will also encourage more visitors to the area that will give a much-needed boost to the local businesses.”

Mount Wallace (LNWA)

Bacchus Marsh College (school hall), 73 Grant Street

Bacchus Marsh Central (LNWA)

St Bernard’s Catholic Primary School, 19A Gisborne Road

Ballan (AWA)

Ballan and District Community House, 76 Steiglitz Street

Bungaree (LNWA)

Bungaree Mechanics Institute, 221 Bungaree-Wallace Road

Clarkes Hill (LNWA)

St Mary’s Catholic School, 131 Powells Road

Darley (LNWA)

Darley Primary School, 21 Nelson Street

Elaine (LNWA)

Elaine Mechanics Institute, 20 Pearsons Road

Gordon (AWA)

Gordon Public Hall, 68 Main Street

Mount Egerton (LNWA)

Mount Egerton Mechanics Institute, 69 Main Road

Mount Wallace Reserve Hall, 16 Mount Wallace Hall Road Myrniong (AWA)

Myrniong Primary School, 13 Muddy Lane

Macedon District Blackwood (LNWA)

Blackwood Community Hall, 80 Byres Road (access via corner of Golden Point Road and Byres Road)

Daylesford (AWA)

Daylesford Primary School, 104–128 Vincent Street

Hepburn Springs (LNWA)

Hepburn Primary School, 156 Main Road (access via Fourteenth Street)

Trentham (AWA)

Trentham Primary School, 8 Bridge Street

Melton District Brookfield (IWA)

Melton Christian College, 152–156 Brooklyn Road

Melton West (IWA)

Melton Secondary College, 207 Coburns Road (IWA) Independent Wheelchair Access (AWA) Assisted Wheelchair Access (LNWA) Limited or No Wheelchair Access

Investigators believe the teenager was stabbed following an altercation with a group of males. Photo – Lachlan Ellis

Ms Freeman said her proposal for the Community Peace Garden was also rejected during a recent meeting between the RSL and Mr Madden.

Concept art of current plans for the Resting Poppy at the Avenue of Honour, by Dean Bowen.

Festival a blooming success

By Lachlan Ellis

The Ballan Autumn Festival (BAF) Committee were planning for the Festival to finally ‘spring back’ this month, after a three-and-a-half-year hiatus – and spring back it did.

Almost 10,000 people are estimated to have attended on Sunday 13 November, at the first BAF since March 2019.

Attendees enjoyed events and displays such as live music, a wood chopping competition, and of course, the famous Grand Street Parade.

BAF President Kevin Harper said the turnout went far beyond what the Committee had expected.

“We were very encouraged by the crowd, there were probably just shy of 10,000 people where we thought we’d struggle to get 2,000 in. We were planning for 4,000,” Mr Harper told the Moorabool News.

“It was great having local musicians playing, and working with the Ballan Arts Collective, with the Wombats decorating the town, and shopkeepers entering into the spirit of things decorating their shopfronts. The new gallery had 350 people through, and they were very happy with that.”

There were a range of winners from a variety of categories judged in the Parade, including Myrniong Primary School (Mayor’s Trophy), the Community Bank Ballan Branch (Best

Commercial Entry), and St Patrick’s Primary School (Best School Entry).

Mr Harper thanked the Festival’s sponsors for making the event’s success possible: Moorabool Shire Council, McGrath Real Estate, the State Government, mecwacare, Millrose Quilting & Gallery, and the Moorabool News.

“We’d really like to thank all the retailers, traders, schools, and sponsors that got behind us, and we encourage people to please get on board for 2023. The amount of publicity that we managed to get in radio, print, and air time were a great success, because people all over Ballarat seem to have heard about it,” he said.

The next BAF will return to its regular autumn timing in March 2023, adopting the superheroes theme that was planned for BAF 2020, before that event was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The BAF Committee are keen to hear from those who attended the Festival, to help make BAF 2023 another fantastic event – you can fill out a questionnaire by heading to the Ballan Autumn Festival Facebook page, searching “feedback”, and clicking the link in the first result that comes up.

Anyone wanting to help out and become a volunteer can also contact the committee by their social media page.

Parade entrants got right into the spirit of this year’s theme, ‘Bloomin’ Marvellous’. Photos – Ballan Autumn Festival

Even the stage caravan, Rosie, was flower-themed. Photos – Ballan Autumn Festival

Road freight terminal rejected

By Lachlan Ellis

An application to build a road freight terminal at the vacant site of a former treated pine timber yard in Bungaree has been rejected by Council, citing amenity impacts and prox imity to a school.

Seven objections were received to the application at 355 Bungaree-Wallace Road, with one objector, Lisa Steinhouse, addressing Council at the 16 November Development Assessment Committee.

Ms Steinhouse listed a number of concerns she and other objectors had, “including traffic management, B-double truck movement, noise pollution at the entry and exit, future growth at the site…and safety concerns in relation to movement of fuel tanks”.

She argued that the proposal was also “contrary to the future development of Bungaree township”.

Speaking on behalf of the applicant, James Robson told Council the truck movements would be negligible when compared to the average movements on a rural highway.

“Peak hourly movements are expected to be limited between three and four movements per hour. Operationally speaking, this volume is insignificant when looking at the hourly capacity of a rural highway, with normal expectations of 310 vehicles to 1510 vehicles an hour before reaching an unacceptable level of service,” Mr Robson said.

“Freight operations have been proposed to primarily occur between 3am and 10pm, with provisions for occasional late arrivals from long haul trips.”

Cr Paul Tatchell put forward an alternate motion to approve the facility, arguing it would provide much-needed jobs and industry in the western half of Moorabool, which Council recognises as being in need of further development.

However, Cr Tonia Dudzik argued the site was far too close to homes and schools.

“I support economic development in the right place. The issue with this application is that five objectors live next to this site, five people’s homes will be impacted by this development. It’s very close to schools, it’s a township zone, it’s where we predicted there would be growth. In my view it

would be residential growth,” Cr Dudzik said.

The applicant, Darren Rix, is a born and bred Bungaree local and lives on the Bungaree/Wallace Road, and said trucks already use this route.

“This is a farming area and has been for centuries. Transport companies are already using this road. The site is zoned farming, not township as Cr Dudzik puts it,” he told the Moorabool News.

“The road in question is the old Western Freeway and is a VicRoads designated B-Double route already.

“This site has pre-existing commercial industry history and has done for well over 50-years.

“Councillors talk about economic development and jobs, and now they have knocked an opportunity on the head.”

Cr Tatchell said residential developments could not be built there without decontaminating the site first.

“It would be incredibly difficult to remove, especially with leaching...otherwise we’re going to just have a large allotment of land that’s just going to be filled with weeds. I

think there are more positives than negatives to this,” he told the meeting.

Cr Tatchell’s motion to approve the site was lost, as only he and Cr Rod Ward voted in favour of it. Cr Dudzik’s motion to refuse the application was seconded by Cr Ally Munari, and approved by all but Cr Tatchell – thus, the application was rejected.

Mr Rix said there are already countless truck movements in the area.

“Residential housing and commercial industry already live side by side, and in Grant Street Bacchus Marsh hundreds of trucks travel directly past the high school.

“Common sense needs to prevail,” Mr Rix concluded.

The site sits 45-metres off the main road; is adjourned by two other commercial premises; the school is approximately 100-metres across the road in an 80kph speed limit, with the nearest residential house at least 300-400 metres to the west of the site.

The applicant will now take the matter to VCAT.

Photo - Helen Tatchell

Fiskville Cup tests firies

By Lachlan Ellis

Local firefighters have taken part in a round robin competi tion, helping prepare each brigade for the summer ahead.

While the Fiskville Cup competition is more about testing the brigades’ ability to respond to different scenarios than winning, this year’s winner was the Ballan Fire Brigade, with their crew leader Ben Bialek also winning the Best Crew Leader award.

Also taking part across the Cup’s nine events were the Bacchus Marsh, Blackwood, Gordon, Greendale, and Millbrook Fire Brigades.

Ballan Group of Fire Brigades Group Officer Shane Cramer said taking part in the Fiskville Cup was a great learning experience for firefighters.

“There are a couple of advantages to an event like the Fiskville Cup. One is it’s very compressed – it the normal course of brigade training which happens periodically, it might take a year or two to cover all those subjects. Whereas with the Fiskville Cup, you’ll do all those things in one day,” Mr Cramer told the Moorabool News.

“For new recruits, it’s quite intense in some ways. But it actually opens their eyes to the breadth of things we might be asked to deal with. It also addresses a lot of safety aspects with operating around fire appliances and emergencies, it’s an opportunity for crew leaders to be tried and tested, and our drivers too.”

Participants took part in a gas fire lounge room POD, motor vehicle accident/first aid scenario, burn-over/entrapment drill, draughting from tanks, tree markings and chainsaw

Junior Show Ambassador named

By Lachlan Ellis

The Ballarat Agricultural & Pastoral Society (BAPS) has named its Junior Show Ambassador for 2022 – and she’s one of Moorabool’s own.

Seventeen year-old Nellie Mullane lives in Ballan, and said being named as one of the four nominees came as a shock to her, let alone winning the award at the BAPS opening dinner on Thursday 10 November.

“When they read out me name, my heart fell to my stomach, it was so unexpected. I thought the older kids I was up against were going to win easily, because they have more agricultural knowledge than me. But the judges said they were impressed about how I presented, and got a job when I was 14,” Ms Mullane told the Moorabool News.

“I was so excited, and a bit confused – I was certain I wasn’t going to win. Mum never posts on Facebook, but she posted on Facebook about me winning.”

The award recognises involvement in the local community, the agricultural sector, and agricultural shows.

Ms Mullane chalks her win up to her work at Crossroads Trading, which she started at age 14, and her time working at the canteen at the Ballan Football Netball Club.

The next step is the Midland Region finals next year, where Ms Mullane will represent the Ballarat region against Junior Show Ambassadors from areas such as Daylesford, Clunes, and Hepburn.

She says she “one hundred per cent” sees a future for herself in agriculture, hoping to take advantage of Crossroads’ Young Gun Program after finishing Year 12, receiving training from Crossroads’ suppliers such as Gallagher Fencing.

“Hopefully I’ll get some knowledge there, maybe go to university…starting my own business one day is the dream,” she said.

use, running grass-fire edge simulation, structure fire simulation, and collar tank awareness.

The event also went beyond fire and first aid drills with a peer support briefing, running through the mental health impacts of the CFA’s work, and how to support fellow firefighters.

The Fiskville Cup has been around since 1974, and was donated by the Fiskville Training College for pre-fire season training.

Though the COVID-19 pandemic and poor weather have seen the Cup cancelled over the last few years years, the local brigades aim to hold the competition once a year when possible.

Students arrested in Singapore

Five Bacchus Marsh Grammar students have been arrested, and seven questioned, during a netball trip in Singapore, with investigations into alleged theft ongoing.

Eighteen students from Bacchus Marsh Grammar were in Singapore for a regional netball competition, and it’s understood five were arrested on Sunday 13 November for allegedly stealing Victoria’s Secret and Crocs items.

On Tuesday 15 November the school issued a media statement, in which principal Andrew Neal expressed his hopes that the police investigations would conclude soon.

“The matter is being investigated by the Singapore Police. The Police have been firm, fair, and thorough and the school is appreciative of their professionalism. It is our hope that the police will have finalised their investigations of this matter by later in the week,” Mr Neal said.

“The girls are currently in the direct care of Bacchus Marsh Grammar school staff and we look forward to them returning with the group later in the week. The School would like to thank the Australian Embassy staff in Singapore for the support of our staff in Singapore and their ongoing assistance in this matter.”

It is alleged the girls spent more than ten hours behind bars in Singapore, before being allowed to return to their hotel.

At the time of printing, no further official updates have been provided by Bacchus Marsh Grammar.

The winning Ballan crew with; Matt Gorman, Matt Thorne, Crew Leader - Ben Bialek, Corey Williams and Ben Murray. Photos – Chris Thom

Lounge room POD fire. Photos – Chris Thom

Nellie Mullane was named Junior Show Ambassador for the Ballarat Show, and has her fingers crossed for the Midland Region Finals in 2023.

Photo – Submitted

Backing regional media

The State Government has committed to supporting regional media in Moorabool Shire with guaranteed advertising revenue for newspapers, should it win the upcoming election.

Regional media was hit hard during the pandemic lockdowns, particularly free newspapers which rely on advertising to operate.

Growing costs of printing paper and production – compounded by Norske Skog closing its Tasman paper mill on 30 June this year – have dealt another blow to newspapers and their future.

This month, the Andrews Government committed to a guaranteed full page of advertising in every regional newspaper per week, building on the support provided throughout the pandemic.

Acting Editor of the Moorabool News Lachlan Ellis, welcomed the announcement.

“The current state government threw a lifeline out to newspapers when COVID hit

and has continued their support, this is very welcome news,” he said.

Mr Ellis clarified the guaranteed full page is actually the ‘equivalent of’.

“We may receive two full pages in one edition, the following week there may not be a placement,” he said.

This included a $2.7 million grant to Australian Associated Press to support regional print and broadcast journalism, and a further $20 million provided throughout the pandemic for advertising in regional media outlets.

Labor candidate for Eureka, Michaela Settle, said regional print media plays a vital role in keeping our communities informed on local issues.

“We know that regional people love and need their local news, and that local papers are central to keeping the unique feel of rural and regional living,” Ms Settle said.

“I’m so proud that a re-elected Labor Government will continue to support our local communities and back local jobs.”

Council Mee�ng

Moorabool Shire Council

Commi�ee Mee�ng

Navigators Community Centre Incorporated Public Mee�ng

Council Mee�ng

No�ce is hereby given that a Statutory Mee�ng of the Moorabool Shire Council will be held in the Council Chambers, 15 Stead Street Ballan on Wednesday 30 November 2022, at 6pm

Council Mee�ng

The Statutory Mee�ng of Council will be open to the public and will also be live-streamed on Council’s website.

Commi�ee Mee�ng

Navigators Community Centre Incorporated Public Mee�ng

Derek Madden Chief Execu�ve Officer

Navigators Community Centre Incorporated Public Mee�ng

Employment Tenders

Employment

Have Your Say: Female Friendly Strategy

Tenders

Have Your Say:

Planning

Female Friendly Strategy

Council invites applica�ons for the exis�ng vacancies:

• Senior Economic Development Officer

Full-Time Permanent - Based at Darley

• Environmental Health Administra�on Officer

Full-Time Fixed-Term - Based at Darley

Employment Tenders Have Your Say: Female Friendly Strategy

• Youth Development Officer (3 posi�ons)

Full-Time Fixed-Term - Based at Darley

Planning Permit

• Best Start Facilitator

Part-Time Permanent - Based at Darley

Applica�ons close on Sunday 4 December 2022

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

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

Public Mee�ng

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

Planning Permit

Community Grants

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

There will be a public mee�ng at Wallace Recrea�on Reserve, 15 Ormond Road Wallace, on Monday 5 December star�ng at 6pm. The purpose of the mee�ng is to nominate persons as the Community Asset Commi�ee for the Wallace Recrea�on Reserve for a term of one year. All posi�ons will be declared open, and nomina�ons will be accepted prior to or on the night. Nomina�ons from women, Aboriginal people, people with disabili�es, young people and people from culturally diverse backgrounds are encouraged.

For further informa�on and to obtain a nomina�on form, contact the President, Paul Mahar on 0419 345 222 or p.mahar@bigpond.com

Community Grants

Unscheduled Mee�ng of Council

Tourism Grants

Rates Payments

The next step after rain damage

By Lachlan Ellis

Many tracks and trails, including the 1000+ Steps at Bald Hill, have been hit hard by re cent rains – but plans are already underway to repair the damage.

Part of the 1000+ Steps walk – around 140 steps from Ramsay Crescent uphill – has been closed to the public, due to loss of gravel and mulch and mud debris across the steps.

However, the remainder of the steps are open and safe to use, and the closed section can be detoured by using the northern open space section.

And thankfully, the ratepayer won’t be paying

the bill to fix the damage, Council says.

“Most damage was a result of inadequate drainage from an adjacent subdivision that is under construction. We are working with the developer to have the steps rectified at its cost,” Council’s General Manager of Community Assets and Infrastructure, Phil Jeffrey, told the Moorabool News.

“We are working with the adjacent estate to improve its site stormwater in the interim.

When it’s fully developed, an underground stormwater system will be in place. We are working to have the steps open as soon as possible. Repeat rain events are hindering efforts but [the 1000+ Steps will] likely open by December.”

Call to ‘Build Back Better’

A body representing regional and rural councils has called on state politicians to back infrastructure repairs, in the wake of recent flooding across the state.

Rural Councils Victoria (RCV), which represents 34 rural Local Government Areas, is calling on the next State Government to create a dedicated ‘Build Back Better Fund’ to help rural communities withstand future natural disasters.

“have

“Each rural council is responsible for thousands of kilometres of local roads but don’t have the rate base to be able to afford adequate road repairs, even in normal times,” Cr Brown said.

“Victoria’s food producers, manufacturers, transport operators and residents need a dedicated fund to ensure that roads are constructed, repaired, or reconstructed to a standard that can withstand frequent natural disasters. This means genuine long-term thinking.”

Cr Brown said poor and damaged rural roads cost everyone in the state, through slower farm transport pushing the price of food and other items up.

She also called on the State Government to declare a statewide roads emergency.

The call for the Build Back Better Fund is part of RCV’s State Election Platform, which calls for reinstatement of the Fixing Country Roads program ($200 million over four years), an additional $200 million per year over 4 years for RRV, and $10 million per year over 4 years for roadside vegetation management and weed control.

Bacchus Marsh received “around 90 mm in around 90 minutes” on Tuesday 8 November, prompting Council to close part of the 1000+ Steps. Photo – Lachlan Ellis

RCV Chair Cr Mary-Ann Brown said that many rural councils

borne the brunt of the floods”, with repairs to the required standards expected to cost billions.

Prepare

bushfire plan

Bushfires might not be in the forefront of your mind with the recent rain and floods, but the CFA is urging Victorians to plan ahead.

It’s always better to be safe than sorry, and with summer almost upon us, the CFA is reminding people not to get caught out last minute if a fire is approaching.

Before the fire season starts, it’s important to practise how to pack the car, to make sure you can do it quickly and easily in an emergency situation.

Important items and information should be kept in a safe place – it’s a good idea to

keep photos and information on a USB flash drive or external hard drive, in case physical copies are damaged.

You should also prepare an emergency kit, with essential items to including being change of clothes, toiletries, medicine/first aid, your mobile phone and charger, water, wool blankets, contact information for your doctor, council and power company, additional face masks, hand sanitiser, and antibacterial wipes.

For more information on how to prepare before and during a fire, head to www.cfa.vic.gov.au/plan-prepare/ before-and-during-a-fire.

Drive change in parking policy

Does car parking in Moorabool drive you up the wall? Now is the time to have your say on Council’s parking plans, with a Draft Parking Policy and Parking Strategy up for feedback.

Council currently has no Parking Strategy or Policy, and implementing them will allow for a coordinated, consistent, and transparent approach for providing and managing car parking across Moorabool both now and into the future.

The Strategy sets out five guiding principles: maximise use of existing parking, meet future parking demand, localised parking requirements, increase travel by other modes, and maintain rural charm of towns.

Council is running two drop-in sessions where Council staff will be available to discuss the documents and listen to your feedback – the first is at the Ballan Mechanics Institute from 4.00 pm to 6.30 pm on Tuesday 29 November, and the second is at the Lerderderg Library from 4.00 pm to 6.30 pm on Thursday 1 December.

To provide your feedback or register for the drop-in sessions, head to haveyoursay.moorabool.vic.gov.au/parkingstrategy

Local history in Moorabool

Bacchus Marsh & District Historical Society Inc.

The Chicory Kiln at Maddingley, south of the Werribee River at Bacchus Marsh, is a large brick structure that was built in 1885 for the process of drying chicory roots. They were used as a coffee additive.

In 1877 it was recorded in The Bacchus Marsh Express that Mr T.G. Pearce, in conjunction with his father, Thomas Pearce, had been growing chicory in Bacchus Marsh for the last ten years, with 12 - 20 acres being cultivated every season. That same year Pearce acknowledged Mr Le Couteur as the first local grower of this crop and as a source of information about chicory for him.

In 1885 the Pearce Brothers constructed a chicory kiln to provide a drying facility for their chicory crops which had previously been sold in a green state. This reduced both their weight and bulk for packing and transporting to Melbourne. It was described in The Bacchus Marsh Express on the 18 July

1885 as 'a large brick erection, forming a prominent feature of the landscape, and is fitted in the best style, with root slicing disc, elevators to take the cut root to the drying floor and bagging facilities.' The water wheel, Californian pump, centrifugal pump, wooden plough and three-tiered cultivator were all noted at the time. The kiln was constructed only about 200 metres south of the Werribee River and the chicory crop was watered by irrigation. A calico hose carried water to the crop, with each watering delivering about two inches of water. Pearce's crop rotation involved chicory, carrots, hay and potatoes.

The Chicory Kiln at Maddingley is the largest known chicory kiln in Victoria and is the oldest remaining substantially intact example of its kind in Victoria. Built in 1885 by a professional builder, the kiln was of considerable size.

Best wishes to all candidates

Council would like to wish the best of luck to all candidates who are running in the state elec�on for the seats of Eureka and Melton.

We look forward to working with the successful candidates and con�nue the good rela�onships we have had with our local Members of Parliament.

We thank the two major par�es for suppor�ng one of our priority projects: the Bacchus Marsh Bowls and Community Hub. We

con�nue to advocate for three more priority projects:

• Duplica�on of Griffith St, Bacchus Marsh

• Sewering of Bungaree and Wallace

• Oval upgrades: Gordon and Bungaree

Best of luck to all candidates and thank you for con�nuing to work closely with Council and the Moorabool community.

Moorabool Shire Council

Pacers Ravishing as Stewart smashes records

By Michael Howard (HRV)

There were two outstanding pacing Cap tains on the good ship Breeders Crown but it’s the one who was simply Ravishing that will have tongues wagging for a long time to come.

Despite being just a 3-YO and in only his 12th start, Captain Ravishing’s stunning victory in a 1:51.1 mile rate in the Woodlands Stud final for three-year-old boys was the defining exclamation mark on another magic night for Emma Stewart’s stable.

The Cardigan trainer claimed six of the 10 races at Tabcorp Park Melton last Saturday night, including four Group 1s, the 14th time her stable has won six or more races on a single card (the next most is Gary Hall Snr with nine).

None were better than the almost 30-metre win by Captain Ravishing, which knocked two outstanding pacers out of the history books.

Lochinvar Art’s stunning 2020 Victoria Cup triumph set a new mark (1:51.4) for the much-travelled middle distance at Tabcorp Park Melton, which was then matched by Hurricane Harley a tick over a month later when the pair went head-to-head in a classic Breeders Crown stoush.

That was lowered by three-tenths by Captain Ravishing and it was a thrilled Mark Pitt who spoke to Sky Racing’s Brittany Graham post-race.

“He was just cruising to the line,” Pitt said.

"It's actually something special to sit behind a horse like this. I've sat behind many good horses in Ride High and a few others, I think this one is top of the tree that I've sat behind."

The final was frenetic from the outset, with Ripp racing true to his name for Bernie and Doug Hewitt and tearing to the lead in a 42.5-second lead time.

With Captain Ravishing sat on his outside, the New South Wales’ team’s plan of attack appeared clear, as they attempted to turn the race into a battle of the fittest to soften up the speed machine.

There was no let up in the 56.8sec first half, but rather than shrink Captain Ravishing found gears, pressing on in 27.4 and 27.9 third and fourth quarters that obliterated his rivals.

“I was a little bit concerned that they did go a strong lead time and first quarter, but I knew I had the horse underneath me,” Pitt said.

Come the line he would win by 28.8 metres from his nearest rival, Matt Craven's Flash Jimmy, and will have many dreaming of future clashes with his Victoria Derby conqueror Leap To Fame.

Harness Highlights

By Michael Howard (HRV)

Mark Pitt was also a key part of one of the more enthralling stoushes on Saturday night at Tabcorp Park Melton, although on that occasion he and The Lost Storm had their colours lowered by School Captain, who was outstanding for trainer Russell Jack and re insman Nathan Jack.

For the latter, victory in the IRT Australia Breeders Crown for two-year-old boys was an emotional result, having claimed the title for his dad Russell and long-time supporters Anne and Bill Anderson.

"This one's a bit different, that's for sure,” Jack said.

“I had a lot of faith in this horse. Bill and Anne have been great and Dad's here, it just means a lot."

School Captain held The Lost Storm on his outside hip throughout and Jack was quick to up the tempo through a 28.5sec second quarter.

He then found another gear in the third and followed that 26.7sec quarter with a 27.4sec run to the line that had his rivals gasping, with Perfect Class running terrifically to finish second while The Lost Storm faded to third, beaten 23 metres.

“We were quite comfortable early,” Jack said. “If they were wanting to run, I was happy leaving them back here, I was never letting them any closer. The work during the week said he was ready to go.”

While Stewart filled placings two to four it would be the only pacing victory that would escape her stable's clutches.

She enjoyed a familiar winner in Ladies In Red, who was extraordinary in, like Captain Ravishing, sitting parked and putting the leader to the sword.

In this case she battled with her great rival

Tough Tilly and avenged

Crown Championship for four-year-old mares. The result capped Ladies In Red’s Breeders Crown sweep, having also scored as a two and three-year-old.

Earlier in the night the first pacing crown was won by the horse who some have dared mention in the same breadth as Ladies In Red, unbeaten two-year-old Major Delight. She rewarded those who backed her into $1.10 favourtism with a ninth win from as many outings, but it was a narrow win in the end with stablemate Tempting Tigress looming ominously late.

Having broken open the field with a 27.4-second third quarter Major Delight, clearly out in front, appeared to knock off a little in the run to the line, getting home in a modest 29-second final quarter.

Despite suffering her first defeat Tempting Tigress was impressive for Stewart, who produced the first four home, with Perfect In Pink just five metres behind the leaders while Spring Blue was fourth.

Stewart would also score with Encipher (two-year-old pacing fillies) and Act Now (four-year-old mares), a short-priced pair who led and dominated their races for Kate Gath and Jodi Quinlan respectively.

It was a particularly remarkable result for Gath, bringing up her 50th career Group 1 and fittingly on a horse bred and owned by Tyson Linke of South Australia, Gath’s birth state.

For Encipher the win comes on top of her triumph as a two-year-old and boosts her earnings to almost $400,000, while Act Now’s success, a 14th win with Quinlan, adds to his three-year-old Breeders Crown victory and two-year-old second placing.

Driver Mark Pitt was all smiles after a record-breaking win with Captain Ravishing. Photo – Stuart McCormick

her Make Mine Cullen defeat with a dominant performance in the Nutrien Equine Breeders

Emma Stewart celebrated yet another win, with Ladies in Red winning in the 4YO Mares Group 2 category.

Photo – Stuart McCormick

Reinsman Nathan Jack won at Tabcorp Park for his dad, trainer Russell Jack. Photo –

Stuart McCormick

tion on the weekend is compensated by bright news on Monday. Don’t let this week be all work.

GEMINI—May 23-June 21

Romance is favoured, so long as you opt for the light touch. You could be inspired to take on a few zany projects and at least one brings dividends. Don’t take sides in a feud.

QUICK PUZZLE

ACROSS

7.Carefree (5-7)

8.Missive (6)

9.Bird (6)

10.Jug (7)

12.Tree (5) 15.Heavens (5) 16.Pupil (7) 18.Sew (6) 20.Encroachment (6) 22.Flock (12)

NO. 9274

DOWN

1.Rhyme (8) 2.Talk (4) 3.Hire (7) 4.Marten (5) 5.Flag (8) 6.Rim (4) 11.Making (8) 13.Spice (8) 14.Fibrous (7) 17.Acute (5) 19.Moment (inf) (4) 21.Speed (4)

CRYPTIC PUZZLE

ACROSS

7. It’s hard to give up being a monk’s tailor (5-7). 8. The main fastening? (6). 9. What the vegetarian cannibal ate? (6). 10. Lovely entrants for the Miss Fruit competition? (7). 12. Put your finger on what it is that makes the pianist so good? (5). 15. While having a Scottish name, is an Oriental (5). 16. Unpleasant character who’s always going up in the air over something? (7). 18. One of the more impecunious of the City gentlemen? (6). 20. Stingy’s what a woman is who won’t buy them! (6). 22. Well-behaved and charming? You do surprise me! (4,8).

DOWN

1. Does it tangle the hair while one sleep? (8). 2. Have a leg that’s sore, perhaps, but not stiff (4). 3. Made a bid to take away the stray deer? (7). 4. Subdue some childish infatuation (5). 5. Like the jail-bird’s old suit? (4-4). 6. Therefore, when upturned one is enormous (4). 11. Madman who’s a first-class shot? (8). 13. Colour that was once thought funny but no longer is! (8). 14. Show the wine to go with fish (7). 17, Puffs at a cigarette when something seems slow and boring? (5). 19. Change gear in a fury (4). 21. Pluck it takes to keep a car from skidding on an icy road (4).

QUICK SOLUTIONS

Across - 6, Sympathetic. 7, Want. 8, Prisoner. 9, Better. 10, Lavish. 12, Bridge. 15, Ponder. 17, Escapade. 19, Side. 20, Mountaineer.

Down - 1, Imitated. 2, Hamper. 3, Shrill. 4, Otto. 5, Access. 6, Shake. 11, Vanished. 13, Resume. 14, Enacts. 15, Peewit. 16, Elder. 18, Ague.

CRYPTIC SOLUTIONS

Across - 6, Just the same. 7, As-I-a(nticipated). 8, Wishbone. 9, Untied (anag). 10, S-tr-ide. 12, I’m-ages. 15, Pistol. 17, Snow-ball. 19, Ra-i-n. 20, Get cracking. Down - 1, As-saying. 2, Stewed. 3, Leases (anag). 4, (Charles)Lamb. 5, Lea-ned. 6, Ja-son. 11, Rest-rain. 13, Man-age. 14, Stairs (stares). 15, Pal-ace. 16, O-wing. 18, Wits.

ARIES—March 21-April 20

Starting this weekend, just when your romantic partner announces exciting plans, you find yourself tied to work. It seems that stalled plans are very much back in motion

TAURUS—April 21-May 22

A lucky streak will extend until Sunday. You charm your way out of some touchy situations this week. A cancellation on the weekend is compensated by bright news on Monday. Don’t let this week be all work.

GEMINI—May 23-June 21

You are in the mood to clean up and clear out everything in sight, but there could be real treasures among your collectables. If travelling on the weekend, you could make a great friendship along the way.

CANCER—June 22-July 22

Check financial statements, especially from Thursday to Sunday. Your house is a honeypot now - with a variety of delightful and unusual people finding their way to your door.

LEO—July 23-August 22

You are more energetic at the work place and you are coming closer to achieving a major goal or winning key appointments. Friends may be testing you on the weekend. Pets are in the picture on the weekend.

VIRGO—August 23-September 22

You grow more resourceful and self-reliant, becoming so independent that certain people don’t take you seriously. Their loss! You are shrewed and practical and financially quite successful now.

LIBRA—September 23-October 22

Someone touches you with a loving gesture and you shouldn’t be shy about reciprocating. The unexpected becomes the expected now and you could be caught off guard..

SUDOKU

SCORPIO—October 23-November 21

This is a week of variety, at work and socially. One of your work ideas is first slated then to win you plaudits. A small financial setback is followed by a series of gains

NUMBER GAME

SAGITTARIUS—November 22-December 22

ANSWER BELOW

One of your biggest financial burdens may be shared at last - and you can spend some money on yourself. It’s a week of achievement in general. This is the time to draft personal goals.

CAPRICORN—December 23-January 20

Romance is favoured, so long as you opt for the light touch. You could be inspired to take on a few zany projects and at least one brings dividends. Don’t take sides in a feud.

AQUARIUS—January 21-February 19

You receive more than you give in the finance department, while reverse holds true in romance. You could be subject to minor upsets. Take care of your health and begin some form of exercise.

PISCES—February 20-March 20

Your family proves reliable and bolsters your spirits. Meetings after the weekend allow you to show off your verbal gifts. Emails or letters may get lost, so keep a watch out.

BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK

You enjoy a good argument, a good challenge and a good adventure, sometimes too much. But there is no limit on your enjoyment of good people and good friends. Sometimes you are a little too casual and a little too absorbed in your own enthusiasms but you are always well meaning and always prepared to forgive and forget

You are in the mood to clean up and clear out everything in sight, but there could be real treasures among your collectables. If travelling on the weekend, you could make a great friendship along the way.

AQUARIUS—January 21-February 19

You receive more than you give in the finance department, while reverse holds true in romance. You could be subject to minor upsets. Take care of your health and begin some form of exercise.

CANCER—June 22-July 22

Check financial statements, especially from Thursday to Sunday. Your house is a honeypot now - with a variety of delightful and unusual people finding their way to your door.

PISCES—February 20-March 20

Your family proves reliable and bolsters your spirits. Meetings after the weekend allow you to show off your verbal gifts. Emails or letters may get lost, so keep a watch out.

LEO—July 23-August 22

You are more energetic at the work place and you are coming closer to achieving a major goal or winning key appointments. Friends may be testing you on the weekend. Pets are in the picture on the weekend.

BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK

You enjoy a good argument, a good challenge and a good adventure, sometimes too much. But there is no limit on your enjoyment of good people and good friends. Sometimes you are a little too casual and a little too absorbed in your own enthusiasms but you are always well meaning and always prepared to forgive and forget

VIRGO—August 23-September 22

You grow more resourceful and self-reliant, becoming so independent that certain people don’t take you seriously. Their loss! You are shrewed and practical and financially quite successful now.

LIBRA—September 23-October 22

Someone touches you with a loving gesture and you shouldn’t be shy about reciprocating. The unexpected becomes the expected now and you could be caught off guard..

SCORPIO—October 23-November 21

This is a week of variety, at work and socially. One of your work ideas is first slated then to win you plaudits. A small financial setback is followed by a series of gains

SAGITTARIUS—November 22-December 22

One of your biggest financial burdens may be shared at last - and you can spend some money on yourself. It’s a week of achievement in general. This is the time to draft personal goals.

CAPRICORN—December 23-January 20

Romance is favoured, so long as you opt for the light touch. You could be inspired to take on a few zany projects and at least one brings dividends. Don’t take sides in a feud.

AQUARIUS—January 21-February 19

You receive more than you give in the finance department, while reverse holds true in romance. You could be subject to minor upsets. Take care of your health and begin some form of exercise.

PISCES—February 20-March 20

Your family proves reliable and bolsters your spirits. Meetings after the weekend allow you to show off your verbal gifts. Emails or letters may get lost, so keep a watch out.

BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK

Stars & Puzzles ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯

You enjoy a good argument, a good challenge and a good adventure, sometimes too much. But there is no limit on your enjoyment of good people and good friends. Sometimes you are a little too casual and a little too absorbed in your own enthusiasms but you are always well meaning and always prepared to forgive and forget

Michael Scott 16/12/49 passed 20/10/22

To our dear family and friends, thank you so much for kindness, long distance travel and beautiful flowers and cards, on the sad passing of Michael. “He would have been overwhelmed” Love from Anne-Marie, Luke and Aaron Scott

ANAKIE PRIMARY SCHOOL

Education Support Staff

Anakie PS is a wonderful small school, located between Geelong and Bacchus Marsh, at the foothills of the Brisbane Ranges. Our school is recruiting staff for our Outside Hours School Care (OHSC) and holiday programs. Hours are flexible. Please contact the Principal, Louise Kahle, on 52841291 or via email at anakie.ps@education.vic.gov.au.

The Moorabool News is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the Standards may have been breached, you may approach the newspaper itself or contact the Council by email (info@presscouncil.org.au) or by phone ([02] 9261 1930). For further information see www.presscouncil.org.au.

[Name of publication] is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the Standards may have been breached, you may approach the newspaper itself or contact the Council by email (info@presscouncil.o rg.au) or by phone ([02] 92611930). For further information see www.presscouncil.or g.au.

Sport

Bacchus Marsh Little Athletics

A busy day was held at the Bacchus Marsh Little Athletics Centre last Sat urday morning. The day commenced with Centre President, Maria Downes announcing the official 2022/23 season open. The opening had been post poned while the renovations to the Pat Lane Pavilion were completed. Life Members and Distinguished Service Members were invited to attend and celebrate this special occasion.

This week was Little Athletics Australia’s Coles Community Round. Bacchus Marsh athletes, family and friends were encouraged to get creative wearing something red or Coles

themed. This was a great way to celebrate the partnership Coles has with all Centres throughout Australia.

Once the formalities were finished the events quickly got underway. First up on the track were the open age athletes competing in their long hurdles events. The highlight was in the Boys Under 13 200m hurdles race, where Blues athlete, Nicholas Mai broke the first Centre record for the season. Nick ran a new Centre record time of 30.58 seconds.

The buzz around the Centre was electric and the arrival of special guest, Coles Ambassador and Australian Olympian, Matthew Denny saw crowds quickly gather around the front straight. Matt joined in with the Under 8 boys as they competed in the hurdles event. All scheduled events were

then put on hold while the Centre conducted several family Banana relay races, with Matt participating too. Matt then held a special Q&A time with the athletes before heading over to the Discus cage to put on a throwing display for everyone. The excitement from the kids was priceless as Matt threw the Discus out into the midfield of Masons Lane Reserve – showing why he is Australia’s Discus Champion. Matt then judged the best dressed athletes and presented Coles vouchers to 12 lucky winners. Representatives from Little Athletics Victoria, Coles Australia marketing department and Coles Bacchus Marsh were also in attendance.

This Saturday’s meet will be program 4. Eagles Club are on set-up duty from 7.30am.

BAR Retro Bar, dark wood laminate with glass display cabinet, overhead glass rack and 4 bar stools. $80 - 0418 121 582

ANIMAL CAGE, suit Rabbit or Guinea Pig, Navy blue, good condition, $60 Ph 0467 488 414

ANIMAL CAGE, waterproof base, suits rabbits and guinea pigs, good condition, $60. Ph: 0467 488 414 or 03 5367 4409

BAIN MARIE gold air brand with tile top, and trolley type, $80. Ph: 0418 318 164

BED, single, metal frame, with mattress, VGC, FREE Ph 0412 473 506

BELT BUCKLE Mens, Punisher (Marvel comics) $10 - 0423 252 922

BIKE RACK CARRIER, fits tow ball, up to 3 bike capacity, $30 Ph 0428 325 264

BIRD CAGE Large, suitable for cockatoos, $70. Ph: 0423 327 040

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

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

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

BOOTS, Steel-capped, Women’s Size 8, Black, only worn once, EC $20 Phone 0432 973539

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

CAGE, Large bird, on stand with wheels, suitable for small to medium-sized birds, good condition, $100. Ph: 0467 488 414 or 03 5367 4409

CARAVAN MATTRESS 2 Jayco King Singles 735 x 2107cm. Excellent condition. $20 Ph 0407 841 145

CAR BATTERY, Century, 500cca, good condition, $60 Ph 0406 513 089

CAT SCRATCHER, Large, cream with three levels, good condition, $60. Ph: 0467 488 414 or 03 5367 4409

CDS, 9 black metal $90 will separate 0423252922.

CHRISTMAS TREE, 195 cm, purple, only used once, $40. Ph: 0434 547 266

COFFEE Maker 3-in-1 Russell Hobbs. $50 - 0418 121 582

COUCH, 3-seater, cream leather, no nicks or cuts, $50. Ph: 0490 070 463

COUCH, 3-seater, grey fabric, new, never used, $100. Ph: 0490 070 463

COUCH/DIVAN, A modern style off-white fabric 2 seater. Also Dark wood dressing table and mirror with 2 matching bed-side tables.

FREE Phone 0414392363.

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

DESK, office desk, large, timber, good condition, $40 Ph 0418 519 025

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

DVD recorder Panasonic, new condition $70 – 0417 575 248

FISHING KNIFE Set Mojiko in carry case $50 ph 0447 672 218

FISH TANK 60cm x 30cm. All accessories – light, filter, heater etc. $50 ono - 0418 121 582

FLY REEL with six weight line, Blackridge, $70. Ph: 0447 672 218

FOOT STOOL, Beige patterned material $10 Ph 0423252922

FORD FALCON, EL, mag wheel, with brand new Supercat tyre, $70 Ph 0406 513 089

FORD FALCON hupcaps, BA/BF, 16in, (x4) $60 Ph 0406 513 089

FRIDGE, large, Westinghouse, suitable for garage fridge, works well, $50. Ph 0490 070 463

FRIDGE - Westinghouse. ideal as a Man's Cave/beer fridge $300427 417 690

GRANDMA ROCKING CHAIR, good condition, $100. Ph: 0423 327 040

GRASS CUTTER Handheld, $30. Ph: 0423 327 040

HAND BAG - Silver glo-mesh handbag & grey glo-mesh retro purse $30 lot – 0423 252 922

HIGH CHAIR White, Change Table,White Cot & Mattress never used. EC FREE – 0409950 585

HOT PLATE, Breville portable electric hot plate, as new, $30 Ph 0428 325 264

HYDRANGEAS, fuschias, jade plants, $8 each. Aloe veras, $5 each. Ph: 0408 058 986

JERRY CAN HOLDERS, suit caravan, bracket to suit tow bar or bumper, $30 Ph 0428 325 264

KITCHEN DRESSER. Pine GC $50. 04221107878

LAUNDRY or kitchen sink, marble, still in box, $100 Ph 0456 243 956

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

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

MATTRESS, double, Free, pick up from Mt. Wallace, Phone 0477 327 338

MOTORBIKE jacket XL Bikers Gear Phillip Island EC $70 - 0422 410 681

NAPPIES Huggies Newborn. Unopenned box [bought too many]. 108 Nappies. Fit up to 5kg. $25. Ph 0427869344

NESPRESSO pod Coffee machine plus accessories $55 ono, Phone 0433 786 763

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

PETROL BLOWER VAC – brand new, never used $85 ono, Phone 0433 786 763

PRINTER Canon Pixma MP 800 EC $50 – 0417 575 248

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

SCREWDRIVER set, Stanley, 14 piece, new, $20. Ph: 0418 318 164

SHOES/BOOTS girls (5 pairs) size 10,11 & 12 GC $20 lot – 0423 252 922

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

SPOTLIGHTS for ceiling, three on stainless steel bar, LED globes included, $40. Ph: 0418 318 164

TABLE, Retro and six black chairs $80 0423252922

TABLE: 7 piece Black glass top extending and 6 matching chairs. All in EC. $100. 0421318895.

TREATED PINE, 2 planks, 100mm x 50mm, 2.7m long, $20 Ph 0406 513 089

QUILTING HOOPS, Bonwick & Co 14-inch lap $50, Bonwick & Co 14-inch normal $40, very solid, Ph: 0401 828 629

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

VINTAGE juice glasses, x6, good condition, $10 the lot, ono Ph 0418 519 025

WELDER: CIG Transarc Welder 160 amp good working condition, $85, 0413 555 954

Matthew Denny with BMLAC members Photos - Supplied

Nicholas Mai breaking the 200m Hurdles record. PhotosSupplied

Sport

Ballan Brumbies Basketball

The U19 Boys D took on a Celtic Tigers side that they were ex pected to be able to handle with ease. The match proved far more of a struggle than the Brumbies had anticipated, however.

Neither team started out in prime form, Celtic looking scratchy on offense, Ballan looking tentative and unsure of themselves.

Celtic opened the scoring before Ballan finally got on the board through a strong Oscar McLucas drive and Billy Gillett layup.

The Brumbies, despite superior talent, were struggling to put the ball in the basket. They were able to get to the basket though couldn't finish over Celtic's interior size.

A Dallas McKay three pointer stretched Celtic's lead out to 10 double digits before a late flurry saw Ballan score through Fergus McCausland and Jim Gorman. A basket to McLucas right on half time cutting the lead down to four, 12-16.

The Ballan boys were implored to lift their intensity, which they did, though unfortunately with little tangible impact.

The Brumbies continued to struggle to score, missing a series of easy opportunities, however McLucas and McCausland were able to do just enough to keep the scoreboard ticking

Results – W/e Saturday 14 November

Under 10 Boys

Ballan D 25 def Celtic Tigers 8

Ballan B 14 def Celtic Tigers 11

Under 12 Boys

Ballan E 26 def Celtic Tigers 6

Ballan C 19 lost Saints Wizards 26 Under 12 Girls

Ballan 20 def Celtic Tigers 5 Under 14 Boys

Ballan F 12 lost Saints Taipans 14

Ballan D 24 lost Drummo Dragons 27

Ballan C 61 def Celtic Tigers 14 Under 14 Girls

Ballan D 18 def Excies Acmy 6

Ballan B 30 def Celtic Tigers 5 Under 16 Boys

Ballan G White 42 def Ballan Brumbies Blue 14

Ballan G Blue 14 lost Ballan Brumbies White 42

Ballan D 34 lost Sovereign Knights 42

Ballan C 32 lost Saints Blazers 39

Under 19 Boys

Ballan H 20 lost Phoenix Patriots 27

Ballan E 62 def Phoenix Chargers 40

over for Ballan.

Conversely, Celtic were making almost every shot they put up, no matter the pressure they were under.

Trailing by 16 points with six minutes left, Ballan at long last started to kick into gear. Cooper fed Gillett for a three pointer before Burton swiped steals on consecutive possessions that led to baskets.

With Ballan's speed and pressure ramped up, Celtic were unable to advance the ball past half court as the Brumbies created turnover after turnover.

With the margin suddenly down to just a point and 11-seconds remaining, Celtic called a steadying timeout. From the resulting inbounds play, they were able to draw a shooting foul and unable to make either free throw. Gorman secured the rebound, finding Leunig with the outlet pass. His hit-ahead pass found McLucas who calmly dropped the game winning basket with just three seconds remaining on the game clock.

To be fair, Celtic controlled the game for long periods and scarcely deserved to lose, but don't let that take away from what was an inspired comeback from Ballan, who snatched a 40-39 victory from the jaws of defeat.

RESULTS – W/e Saturday 19 November

Under 10 Boys

Ballan D 10 lost Celtic Tigers 22

Ballan B 10 lost Saints Pistons 44 Under 12 Boys

Ballan E 43 def Wildcats 2

Ballan C 49 def Phoenix Lynx 17 Under 12 Girls

Ballan 18 def Saints Comets 0 Under 14 Boys

Ballan D 44 def Wildcats 13

Ballan C 69 def Celtic Tigers 25 Under 14 Girls

Ballan D 12 lost Phoenix Flames 16

Ballan B 34 def Wildcats 14

Under 16 Boys

Ballan G White 14 lost Wildcats 44

Ballan G Blue 2 lost Phoenix Rollers 49

Ballan D 45 def Celtic Tigers 24

Ballan C 46 def Celtic Tigers 33 Under 19 Boys

Ballan H 37 def Wildcats 35

Ballan E 33 lost Phoenix Lions 35 Ballan D 40 def Celtic Tigers 39 Under 19 Girls Ballan 28 def Phoenix Sky 20

Ballan Cricket Club

Under 13

Ballan 3/109 def Wendouree Red 7/105

Batting

Sarah Burton 32 Ret. n.o, Callum Lister 23 Ret. n.o, Clover McIlwaine 12 Ret. n.o, Jackson Letcher 10 Ret. n.o, Beth Davenport 9 Ret. n.o, Mickey Rawlins 3 Ret. n.o Bowling

Clover McIlwaine 2/9, Callum Lister 1/6, Eamon Grigg 1/12, Sarah Burton 1/31, Oscar Britt 0/5, Angus Tranter 0/7, Mabel Ayres 0/9

Under 15 (Day 1 of a 2 day game)

Brown Hill/Ballan 2/114 v East Ballarat Brown 3/102 Brown Hill/Ballan batted first after losing the toss under grey skies at Vic Park 10. Vice captain Jai Singh (Ballan) stepped in to open the batting with his Brown Hill partner and the pair pushed us off to a rollicking start with an opening partnership of 47 from the first five overs. Charlotte Wallace (Ballan) then formed a solid combination with her Brown Hill partner batting for a long time and turning over the strike with good running between the wickets. In the field, the wind picked up and the players tried to keep their hands warm in the field. James Bayard (Ballan) came on a change bowler each picking up a wicket with some shine still on the ball. Jai Singh(Ballan) also bowled well without luck with the fielding at a very good standard.

Under 17 Day 1 of 2 day game

Ballan 2/64 v Golden Point 4/146

Batting - Ryan Lister 19, Jackson Hunt 17no, Ned Loft 11no Bowling – J. Singh 2/0/2/10, S Burton 2/1/1/4, E Muir. 4/0/1/20

Ballan Captain Jack Jarvis won the toss and elected to bat. After our openers fell quickly, Ned Loft and Jackson Hunt steadied the ship with 17 and 11 not out and will continue

batting next week. With the ball golden point got on top early, until later in the innings with Josh Singh taking two wickets to even out the game.

Results – W/e Saturday 14 November

Under 11 Wendouree 3/79 def Ballan 5/62

Under 13

Ballan 5/110 def Wendouree Red Caps 4/104 Under 15

Mt Clear 6/123 def Ballan/Brown hill 5/87

Under 17 Ballan 8/123 lost to Mt Clear 4/131

Seniors

Abandoned due to poor ground conditions

Lions on top after outright win

By Todd Whelan

Darley surged to the top of the BCA table from outside the top four in one fell swoop after claiming the two wickets required on day two for a convinving outright win over Buninyong.

Day 1 was led by some individual brilliance with both bat and ball, as the Lions simply dominated the winless Buninyong after winning the toss and sending the hosts in.

What transpired thereafter is truly extraordinary as third gamer Liam Cornford announced his arrival on the big stage dismissing six of the last seven Buninyong batsmen to finish with the amazing figures of 6/7. The off spinner broke through for his first wicket to have the hosts reeling at 4/37 triggering a monumental batting collapse of epic proportions. The Bunny's capitulated to be all out for 52 in under 31 overs. Just two Buninyong batsmen made it to double figures as the Lions found themselves with bat in hand and foundations laid toward a potential outright win.

Enter Danza Hyatt. Remember him?

Much to Buninyong's chagrin and misfortune, the former West Indian international returned to the Lions line up for his first hit-out of the new season. Ninety-five minutes after the dynamic right-hander walked to the crease to open the innings he was unbeaten on 100. Buninyong certainly didn't need a reminder of Hyatt's 'scary' capabilities with the bat as he muscled his way to his third century in seven knocks against the club dating back to the 2018/19 season. Against Buninyong alone, Hyatt has 598 runs at a healthy 149.5 average including scores of 100*, 96, 82*, 116, 151*, 0 and 53. Bordering on the ridiculous.

Fellow opener Dilon Chandima 27(15), Harry Killoran 24(30) and promoted pinch hitter Madushanka Ekanayake 15*(18) played the support role for Hyatt's 75 ball innings that included nine fours and four sixes. The Lions declared, sniffing the increasing likelihood of an outright opportunity with the score at 2/171 from just 23 overs.

The hosts were sent in for a second time, with a chance to appease the disaster first attempt with willow in hand. Quite frankly, it just went from bad to worse as the feverish Lions attack led by Ekanayake (4/16) ripped throught the Bunny's top and middle order to have them in all sorts at 8/22 off 20 overs at the close of play.

Despite a nervous wait on day two, the weather gods were kind enough to allow play to commence at 3pm. Resuming on 8/22, the hosts offered little resistance to be bowled out for 30 in their second innings. Ekanayake cleaned up the tail to finish with 6/20.

Lions coach Brian Wheelahan was really proud of his entire group but couldn't ignore the outstanding contributions of a few individuals.

"You couldn't have written a better script," he said.

"Ekka bowled with some serious heat to clean them up in the second innings, and Liam's (Cornford) effort in just his third game confirmed our depth with the ball while Dayle Locke proved again he is a wicket taker."

Wheelahan later described the team oriented response with the bat to help set up the outright scenario as 'selfless'.

"The big fella's back with a vengeance putting on another clinic, notching up another club ton while he (Hyatt) and Dil (Chandima) got us off to a flyer," he said.

"Harry (Killoran) looked poised at the crease and played his role for the greater good of the team while 'Ekka' bowled with some serious heat chasing the outright,"

Unfortunately, Sunday's Round 7 meeting with Naps-Sebas on Darley Park was cancelled.

The Lions must now prepare for their Round 8, two-day fixture against third placed East Ballarat at Darley Park beginning on Saturday.

RESULTS

BCA 1st GRADE - (R6)

Buninyong 52, Overs 30.4. L. Cornford 6/7, Da Locke 2/18.

Darley 1/171 dec, Overs 23. D. Hyatt 100*, D. Chandima 27. Buninyong 30, Overs 24.3. M. Ekanayaka 6/20, Da Locke 2/2. Darley WON OUTRIGHT by and innings and 89 runs.

BCA 1st GRADE - (R7)

Darley vs Naps - Sebas (wash-out) Match drawn (Darley now 1st)

BCA 2nd GRADE - (R1)

Brown Hill 8/205, Overs 45. W. Kilmartin 3/15. Darley 135, Overs 36.4. J. Murphy 26, B. Ward 20.

Darley LOST by 70 runs

BCA 3rd GRADE - (R1)

Darley 7/161, Overs 40. D. Hoey 64, N. Dodemaide 29. Buninyong 159, Overs 40. J. Hynes 4/33, G. Martindale 2/19

Darley WON by 2 runs

Another newcomer to the U11's, Bridie Grigg, has her first hit.