Moorabool News 6 December 2022

Moorabool

INSIDE THIS WEEK...

The courage to compete

Weather to blame for roads

More than just a quilt

Know your weeds

NEW MOORABOOL MAYOR

Councillor Rod Ward elected in a decider

By Lachlan Ellis

Moorabool Shire has a new Mayor and Deputy Mayor, after new holders of the roles were elected at the latest Council meeting.

The Statutory Meeting of Council on Wednesday 30 November called for a new one-year term for a Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Moorabool, with neither outgoing Mayor Cr Tom Sullivan, nor Deputy Mayor Cr Tonia Dudzik, standing for re-election to their roles.

However, Cr Dudzik did stand for the position of Mayor, as did Crs Rod Ward, Ally Munari, and Moira Berry.

The meeting began with the mayor’s report, with Cr Sullivan thanking the people of Moorabool for “the honour and privilege to be Mayor of Moorabool Shire”, and his fellow Councillors for their support.

Tributes followed to Cr Sullivan and his service as Mayor came from every Councillor present, from Cr David Edwards saying Cr Sullivan had “respect across the Shire and always put Moorabool first”, and Cr Berry calling him “fair, a great listener, great talker, and great advisor”.

An absolute majority of four Councillors’ votes is required to elect the Mayor, and with Cr Paul Tatchell an apology and not present, there were six Councillors voting.

In the first round of voting, Cr Ward and Cr Berry both received two votes – Cr Ward voted for himself and was supported by Cr Edwards, while Cr Berry also voted for herself and was supported by Cr Sullivan. Crs Dudzik and Munari both received only one vote each, their own. To break the tie between them, the Councillors drew pieces of paper, with one blank and the other reading ‘defeated’ – it was Cr Munari that drew the defeated paper, and thus she was eliminated from the second round.

In the second round of voting, Cr Ward was again backed by Cr Edwards but also by Cr Munari, while Cr Berry again received Cr Sullivan’s support. With the least votes, Cr Dudzik was eliminated. Finally, in the third round of voting, Cr Ward received the absolute majority he needed, with his own vote, and the votes of Crs Edwards, Munari, and Dudzik.

Cr Ward was officially named the new Mayor of Moorabool Shire, putting on the mayoral chain and robes of office, before thanking his fellow Councillors for their support.

“Thank you very much to my fellow Councillors for this great privilege. It is a great honour to serve the community. It’s a great honour and privilege to be elected Mayor of Moorabool Shire Council,” he said. “I promise to be a Mayor for the whole of Moorabool.”

Cr Ward also paid tribute once more to the outgoing Mayor. “It’s my goal as Mayor, Cr Sullivan, to serve to the high standards that you did, serve everyone fairly, and show the energy and passion for Moorabool Shire that you’ve shown over many years,” he said. Cr Munari was unopposed in her nomination for the role of Deputy Mayor, and thus became the new Deputy Mayor of Moorabool Shire. Both Mayor Cr Ward and Deputy Mayor Cr Munari are relatively new faces to local government, both being first elected to Moorabool Shire Council at the 2020 local government election.

East Ward Councillor Rod Ward has been elected Mayor of Moorabool Shire for the next 12-months. Photos

– Helen Tatchell

#1 AFL draft pick – Aaron Cadman

By Todd Whelan

Former Darley Junior Footballer and popular Greater West ern Victorian Rebels player, Aaron Cadman, has had his life changed forever following his pick one selection by the GWS Giants in the recent AFL National Draft.

The 18 year olds’ rise to prominence over the last 12 months has been nothing short of meteoric according to GWV Coach David Loader.

“I would go as far to say Aaron was rated in the top 80 po tential draftees by a few ‘experts’ in January,” he said.

“He’s come a long way.”

Loader said the 194cm winger-come-forward is a credit to his own work ethic and willingness to improve.

“Aaron is an absolute ripper, very coachable and true stu dent of the game.

“On natural ability alone, I’ve seen plenty of them but it’s simply not enough,” Loader said.

“’Cads’ deserves everything that comes his way.”

The humble apprentice, a ‘sparky’ to-be, was flanked by proud family at Marvel Stadium upon hearing his pick one selection. His infectious smile and overwhelming accom plishment won the hearts of all and sundry across the AFL landscape.

GWS Captain and superstar Toby Greene presented Cad man with his jumper amid rousing applause of approval. Even Geelong draft selection, pick #8 Jhye Clark later en dorsed the sentiment.

“Was good to see “Caddy” go number one, there was noone better to do that,” Clark told Fox Sports interviewer and Western Bulldog great Brad Johnson.

Cadman becomes the third product of the Darley Football Club drafted since 2018, following in the footsteps of former Fremantle Docker and reigning BFNL Henderson Medalist Brett Bewley and star Port Adelaide find Zak Butters.

Zak, a lifelong friend of the Cadmans’ was an excited on looker of last Monday night’s proceedings.

“I’m over the moon for Aaron,” he said. “Seeing the work he has put into himself and his game is just reward.”

Butters said it is so good to see another Darley boy join the AFL, a perfect role model for other young kids coming through the town.”

Cadman, already compared to Geelong Premiership for ward Jeremy Cameron (at the same age), gave full voice and appreciation to the football loving nation for the first time, acknowledging his journey could not have been done alone.

“To share this (moment) with family and friends and every one in this room is pretty special,” Cadman said.

The young gun went pick one ahead of 800 other nomina tions, ranking elite for disposals, goals, score involvements and inside 50 ground ball gets in his NAB League profile that culminated with a joint Captaincy appointment of the Vic Country team.

As Cadman prepares for a permanent move to Sydney, a change of postcode if you will, his loyal family and growing band of suppporters, can brace for a football ride of a lifetime. We’re all with you Aaron.

SUPPORT QUOTES

“To finally hear Az (called) at number one was incredible. Hon estly, it felt like I was in a movie. It was so special, you couldn’t describe how proud we (the family) are...”

- Joel Cadman (brother)

“We’re thrilled to see Aaron drafted as #1 pick. He’s worked extremely hard to get to this point and we wish him all the best on his AFL journey.....”

- Dan Jordan (Darley Football Club Coach)

“Terrific effort by Aaron and reflection on the club’s junior program. When the news came through at training Monday night, the boys were rapt....”

- Craig Baker (Darley Football Manager)

“Outstanding, very likeable young man. Quietly determined, very positive and enthusiastic by nature. Infectious personality, resilient and great work ethic...”

- Rod Ward (former Cricket coach)

Darley’s Aaron Cadman has been all smiles since being drafted with Pick 1 by the Giants. Photo – GWS Giants

The courage to compete

By Lachlan Ellis

Two Moorabool horse trainers have taken part in this year’s Australian Brumby Chal lenge, earning a third-place finish and gain ing a new love of Australia’s wild horses.

Orin and Hayley James live in Ballan, but run Circle J Horsemanship in Balliang East, and took on the sole surviving brumby of his herd from the Kosciuszko bushfires, whom they gave the fitting name ‘Courage’.

Ms James said the experience was quite unlike any horse training they’d done before.

“It was a different experience, completely different to anything we’ve done before. we’re normally into quarter horses, and we do rodeos around Australia. But saying that, it was one of the most rewarding things we’ve ever done, and we’re becoming advocates for saving the brumbies. They’re amazing…just having one for 120 days opened our eyes to how great they are,” she told the Moorabool News.

“He’s got scars still on his rump from the burns from those bushfires, he’s a very courageous little horse.”

The competition was broken into three events, with Courage and Orin competing against 24 other trainers in conditioning (assessing the health of the brumbies),

obstacle course, and free style events.

Mr James won the conditioning component outright, and used the free style event to show what Courage had gone through during the bushfires.

“The free style event was your choice, you chose what you thought your brumby did well and showcased it. We sort of made a little story out of it, that he got caught in the bushfires and broke free,” he said.

“During that we’d do manoeuvres, basic horsemanship, and show his versatility.”

The podium finish wouldn’t have been possible without generous supporters –Crossroads Trading in Ballan supplied all of Courage’s grain feed for the 120 days of training, which Ms James said would be “over $1,000 worth”, and Randalls Run Goat Farm, who offered to cover the $550 entry fee.

“Crossroads were brilliant, they’ve been a huge support of us, and we definitely want to thank them,” Ms James said.

This year, for the first time, Australian Brumby Challenge competitors get to keep their brumbies, which the entry fee pays for.

Orin and Hayley plan to take Courage around to local pony clubs and horse events, doing demonstrations for kids and raising more awareness of brumbies.

Hydrogen car launched

Bank grant to preserve history

By Lachlan Ellis

A local Community Bank Branch has re cently provided thousands of dollars to wards preserving local history, and has been thanked for its ongoing support.

The Bacchus Marsh Community Bank Branch gave the Bacchus Marsh & District Historical Society (BMDHS) a $3,500 grant last week, which BMDHS President Barb McMillan said was vital in preserving historical items.

she told the Moorabool News.

“The support we have received from the Community Bank over the years has been invaluable. It has allowed us to purchase up to date computer equipment, high-resolution scanners, and other items to make our job of cataloguing the items so much easier.”

Guests were introduced to the new Toyota Mirai, which can travel 650 kilometres on a full tank of hydrogen. Photo – Melton Toyota

An exciting new model of car has been shown off at a local dealership, running off not petrol or electricity, but sustainable hydrogen.

Attendees at Melton Toyota’s Fleet Launch/ Open Expansion Day last Thursday were taken on a tour of the showroom’s new facilities by Coimadai resident and Dealer Principal Grant Harrison, and also given a hands-on look at the hydrogen-powered Toyota Mirai.

The tour consisted of the new Toyota Certified showroom which features a large workshop for tyre fitment/replacement, new and used vehicle parts fitment, a detailing area, window tint bays, and an area specialising in dent repairs and paint workshop.

Leaders from Toyota Australia were on site to show off the hydrogen-powered Mirai vehicle and explain its benefits. Guests were then offered the opportunity to test drive the Mirai on local streets, and the Corolla Cross Atmos’ self-parking abilities were displayed in a demonstration.

Mr Harrison said feedback from attendees

on the event, and the capabilities of the Mirai, were “very positive”.

“Melton Toyota was proud to have the hydrogen-fuelled Mirai displayed at the dealership’s recent Fleet Open Day. Local fleet and government buyers were interested to see and understand the potential for hydrogen-powered vehicles in our state,” Mr Harrison said.

“The Mirai has a driving range of 650 kilometres, and its fuel cell technology emits only water.”

Guests at the Open Day were also provided with lunch, drinks, and a thank you gift bag at the end of the event.

Early next year, the Melton Toyota dealership will be hosting a visit to Toyota’s Centre of Excellence at Altona, where government and fleet buyers will get the opportunity to visit Toyota’s Hydrogen Centre.

Interested fleet buyers are invited to contact Carolyn Harper at carolyn@meltontoyota. com.au, or Grant Harrison at grant@ meltontoyota.com.au, regarding taking part in this visit.

“The $3,500 grant money we recently received from the Community Bank Bacchus Marsh will be used to further enhance our cataloguing project by allowing us to purchase a high-quality digital camera, tripod, and an extension arm, to enable us to take archive quality photos of collection items. We also need to buy archive boxes and specially graded bags for storage of old newspapers and other documents. The [Bacchus Marsh] Express newspapers we have date back to 1866 and need to be stored correctly, as some are in a delicate condition,”

The Community Bank also provided $7,000 to BMDHS in 2020, which allowed for the digitisation of all Bacchus Marsh Express newspapers from 1866 to 1954 – allowing anyone in the world access on the National Library of Australia’s Trove website.

Ms McMillan said the Community Bank’s support was integral not to just BMDHS’ work, but the work of other groups across Bacchus Marsh & District.

“We have a great partnership with the Community Bank in Bacchus Marsh, and they have always been very supportive of us. And of course, we really appreciate the support they give to not only us, but to all the other local community groups,” Ms McMillan said.

Orin James with Courage, who came third in this year’s Australian Brumby Challenge.

Photo – Submitted

Bruce, Barb, and John from BMDHS were excited to receive the grant from Keith and Teresa from the Community Bank. Photo – Bacchus Marsh Community Bank Branch

An

By Lachlan Ellis

Locals had a hit for a great cause recently, with around 60 people attending an annual day to raise funds for Movember.

The Movember Men’s Tennis Day, sponsored by Shane Cook Homes, was held on Sunday 27 November, with a portion of the $100 entry per pair going to the Movember Foundation for men’s health.

Event organiser Steve Kelly said it was fantastic to be a part of the action-packed event.

“We had a great day on Sunday. The day included tennis, a sit-down lunch, a men’s health chat with Dr Rav Sadhi, raf fles, a silent auction, and live music from Tom Jenkins,” he told the Moorabool News.

“Dr Sadhi spoke about the importance of getting regular health check-ups, and always checking in with mates. We don’t have figures in yet on the funds raised, but it was great to raise money again for a worthy cause.”

The competition ran across three grades, with Darcy Frigo and Josh Goodland winning in the A Grade, Ray Kelly and Mick Baddeley named B Grade winners, and Lefteri Guy and Jesse Hope winning in the C Grade.

Weather to blame for roads

Potholes are a common sight on our roads, and while we wait for them to be fixed, the RACV has released a guide on how to avoid them.

Wet weather is the main cul prit of causing potholes, so it’s no surprise to see more of them than usual lately after the fre quent rains.

Almost 43,000 potholes (and counting) have been repaired following the flooding in Octo ber, as all the water settling on our roads seeps into cracks and erodes the asphalt.

The RACV’s My Country Road survey asked 4,000 Victorians what concerns they had about the roads they drive on, with potholes a leading concern on regional roads.

Avoidance is the best way to deal with potholes – some ways suggested by the RACV are keeping distance from vehicles ahead, staying alert, keeping both hands on the wheel, and driving to conditions, such as slowing down while driving at night.

Sometimes, driving over a pothole is unavoidable – but Sil via Morris, Senior Instructor for RACV Drive School, says the damage they can cause shouldn’t be underestimated.

“Large potholes have the potential to cause severe damage to your tyres, wheels, suspension, exhaust and/or vehicle body, and in some cases can even lead to drivers losing con trol of their vehicle,” she said.

“Even small ones can cause wear and tear to your vehicle’s suspension and steering, which can be costly.”

If you accidentally hit a pothole, it’s a good idea to check your car for signs of damage. This includes sagging or bulg ing tyres, cracked or misshapen rims, and damage to the vehicle’s body.

When approaching an unavoidable pothole, grip your steer ing wheel firmly, but don’t brake hard – applying the brakes at the time you hit the pothole can cause more damage.

Pay extra attention to how your car drives in the days follow ing as well, keeping an eye out for signs like your steering pulling to one side, your wheel vibrating, or persistent new sounds.

Multiple authorities are responsible for repairing potholes –it’s VicRoads’ job on arterial roads and freeways, while local councils such as Moorabool Shire Council are responsible for the non-arterial roads within their municipalities.

Parks Victoria and the Department of Land, Water and Plan ning (DELWP) also have a role to play, managing non-arterial state roads. You can find out more about how to report pot holes and other road concerns by heading to www.racv.com. au and searching ‘report a problem’.

Shane Cook and Dr Rav Sadhai are proud to help raise awareness and funds for men’s health issues. Photo – Submitted

More than just a quilt

Letters to the Editor

Dear Editor,

The majority have spoken in our fair democratic sys tem, I say fair in that the preference voting system is problematic

Many of the voters in Melton and Bacchus Marsh by their vote, support toxic waste dumping, overhead power lines, substandard rail, and bus services, zero chance of major road and infrastructure upgrades, lack of investment in state schools and last but more important complete lack of action on health services.

The majority will now look forward to the outer west ern suburbs continuing to be neglected as the current government see this as a reasonably safe seat, and will now pour money into the inner suburbs to contain the advance of the Teals and the Greens.

I welcome feedback from our current MP on the lack of action on health service and the Melton hospital non-event. My phone number is 5367 5663.

Colin Reid, Hopetoun Park

Dear Editor,

In a Letter to the Editor, Christopher Schultz (M/News 29 Nov 2022) blames Moorabool Council for every thing he’s not happy with, saying, “I’m out of here and many others who once called this home”.

I wish him well but you know the old saying ‘a dog taking its fleas with it’!

By Lachlan Ellis

Moorabool residents of all ages have been contributing to a community quilt over the past two months, with an important message – ‘Respect Women: Call It Out’.

As part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence 2022, squares for the ‘Moorabool Shire Council Community Quilt Against Gender-Based Violence’ have been created at seven drop-in sessions, led by Ballan artist and academic Lauren Matthews.

At its core, the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is about calling out bad behaviour, challenging it in safe ways, and raising awareness that gender-based violence is still a major problem.

Contributors to the quilt have provided squares with designs representing what respect means to them, including “being equal”, “acceptance for and of who you inherently are”, and “feeling heard”.

Ms Matthews said the project allowed the community to connect through an artistic medium that women have been taking part in for centuries.

“The quilt is kind of Moorabool Shire Council’s response to the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. We were lucky enough to get a grant as part of this, as well as Council contributing some of its own money into the project. I came on-board as a local textile artist…we’ve run seven drop-in stitching sessions across the Shire,” she told

the Moorabool News.

“Different people of all ages have participated. We’ve developed a really beautiful artwork that will live on in Moorabool Shire as part of the commitment to preventing gender-based violence.

“I think when people see quilts, they feel safe. They bring this sense of warmth and safety…I like that we’re able to juxtapose that with these messages around preventing violence, so we can use the quilt as a kind of vehicle to generate safety.”

Work on the quilt began in October, with a forum bringing together local women, non-binary people, and organisations. Speakers from the Orange Door – the main family violence service in the area – spoke with attendees at the forum.

The last day to contribute to the quilt was Monday 28 November, and when completed, it will be displayed on rotation between the Ballan and Lerderderg Libraries.

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence 2022 began on Friday 25 November, with a launch day for the Community Quilt taking place on the final day, Saturday 10 December.

The launch will take place from 10.30 am to 12 pm at the Lerderderg Library, with a morning tea, speeches, and a live music performance.

For more information, head to www.moorabool.vic.gov.au/ Events/16-Days-of-Activism-Community-Quilt-Launch.

Community RAT program

people with a disability, the immunocompromised, or their carers.

Free RATs can be collected at the Lerderderg Library, Darley Civic & Community Hub at 182 Halletts Way, or at the Council Office at 15 Stead Street, Ballan.

Make sure you bring your concession, Seniors, or disability card to show to staff, or let them know you are 70 years older or immunocompromised.

Twenty tests (four kits) can be provided each visit for people with a disability and carers collecting tests on their behalf, while five tests (one kit) are available for people 70 years or older, immunocompromised people, and people with concession cards.

Blaming Council for everything is too easy, lazy and blame shifting. As Grant Street is a VicRoads respon sibility, Mr Schultz’s complaints should have been di rected there, plus the information about the by-pass is all on their website. Plans for a heavy vehicle by-pass have been in the planning and consultation stages for over 10 years now with three options due back for community for final comment, but COVID will no doubt be blamed for the three year delay.

Mr Schultz missed a golden opportunity to discuss his concerns with Michaela Settle, MP, while standing outside the early polling booth in Grant Street almost every day last week. Michaela mentioned the by-pass project in her promotional material so there was an invitation to talk with her. The project might be a given, but the money to build the by-pass sure as hell isn’t, and while it is still in the planning stages the cost is sky rocketing. $32m was allocated by State government many years ago but gossip has this figure at more than $80m. Why was funding for the by-pass project not a top priority for our community in last week’s elections?

I know which side my bread is buttered on. Bacchus Marsh is a great small semi-rural town. We just need to get VicRoads to build the by-pass and give our town back to us.

Marg Scarff, Bacchus Marsh

Dear Editor,

I have not read anything in the Moorabool News about the closure of the operating suite at Bacchus Marsh Hospital at the end of this month. This will be a huge inconvenience to the local residents.

I was shocked when attending my specialist to be told he could not operate on me as the operations were being discontinued after December, and of course he had booked in all he could up to that time limit. I was referred to Sunshine Hospital and now on a waiting list. The plastic surgeon there mentioned I was the third person from Bacchus Marsh that he had seen that morning.

Free Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) are now available for highrisk community members, at three locations.

Free RATs are being distributed by Moorabool Council to those aged 70 years or older, Concession Card holders, and

If you have COVID-19 symptoms, don’t go to a Council location to collect free RATs. Instead, collect them from a testing site, which you can find through the State Government’s COVID-19 website at www.coronavirus.vic. gov.au/get-a-covid-19-test.

For more information on Council’s Community RAT Program, head to www.moorabool.vic.gov.au/RAT-program.

Surely the closing of our hospital will impact severally on the timely service of patients. Being in or mid 70s the traveling and expense of attending far off facilities is a bit of a burden. It should be noted there is not a single plastic surgeon who operates out of the Ballarat Base Hospital either. For us cancer sufferers, the field is limited to possibly untimely outcomes.

Peter Grant, Bacchus Marsh

Lauren Matthews has been putting together the Community Quilt, which she says will comprise over 100 squares. Photo – Lachlan Ellis

Know your weeds

Not sure if that plant growing in your garden is a weed? Council and Moorabool Landcare have released a handy guide to help you out.

With the heavy rains Moorabool has been receiving lately, there’s been an increase in the number of weeds growing, but the ‘Weeds of the Moorabool Shire’ booklet can help you figure out how best to combat them.

The field guide shows pictures and classifications of weeds found in the area, detailing how they spread, what months are best to get rid of them, and the most effective ways to do so.

To read the full booklet, head to www.moorabool.vic.gov. au/weedsofMSC .

The booklet was produced by Moorabool Landcare Network thanks to a grant from Moorabool Shire Council, and with Council as a partner.

Works full steam ahead

By Lachlan Ellis

VicTrack has provided an update on the latest works at the old Lal Lal Railway Station, which is planned to become a community hub.

Initial designs for the station were released in January, and contractors began works on the station on Monday 28 November.

Works are progressing well, with the restoration expected to be finished by mid-2023, VicTrack says.

“The Lal Lal Station building is being fully restored by Vic Track through the Victorian Government’s Community Use of Vacant Rail Buildings Program. Once the works are com plete, the building will become a community neighbourhood house and tourist information centre,” a VicTrack spokesper son told the Moorabool News.

“Early works on the building started this month. Following the appointment of a contractor, major construction is sched uled to get underway from early next year, and take around

six months to complete.”

The current early works are expected to take about two weeks to complete, and will enable the major works to be safely carried out next to the live railway line. They include reroofing the veranda and the lamp room and repairing gut ters, gables and downpipes on the main station building. They also include asphalting the platform and fencing it off from the railway line.

Following a competitive tender process that closed in Sep tember this year, VicTrack expects to appoint a contractor to deliver the major works by early next year.

The works that will be carried out to restore the building in clude structural repairs, works to make the building safe and accessible, installing a new kitchenette and accessible toilet, internal repairs, and painting the walls, doors, and windows.

The head tenant for the new community hub will be Moora bool Shire Council, with Lal Lal Catchment Landcare Group to also be a tenant.

Grassfires move so quickly, it’s impossible to outrun them.

This summer, significant pasture growth in paddocks and roadsides means that fast-moving grassfires will be a serious risk across Victoria. Rural grassfires can be just as dangerous as bushfires, and can actually spread even faster, travelling at speeds of up to 25km/h. If you live close to open paddocks or grasslands, you could be at risk and need to be prepared. On Extreme or Catastrophic Fire Danger Rated days, the safest option is to leave early.

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

Cr Paul Tatchell and MP Michaela Settle attended the funding announcement at Lal Lal in July 2021. Photo – Helen Tatchell

Careless driver fined Letters to the Editor

unable to produce a physical copy of his licence when requested.”

Mr Cruickshank told police that he had “fallen asleep” prior to the collision and “consumed alcohol some hours prior”, but a preliminary breath test returned a negative result.

Further enquiries found Mr Cruickshank was the holder of a Victorian learner’s permit – however, did not have L plates on his car at the time of the accident, nor did he have a fully licenced driver with him.

Dear Editor, Stroke Foundation’s annual physical fundraiser Stride4Stroke has raised more than $320,000 this year.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the 1,619 participants from across Australia for contributing to this incredible achievement. Every step, every minute of activity, and every dollar raised will make an enormous difference to survivors of stroke and their families.

By Lachlan Ellis

A Bacchus Marsh man has been fined over $1200 and had his licence suspended, after speeding in 2021 without L plates on.

Patrick Cruickshank appeared in the Bacchus Marsh Magistrates’ Court via livestream on Friday 2 December, entering a guilty plea to four charges after crashing his ute last year.

Police Prosecutor Senior Constable Jason Kimm told the court that a witness had seen Mr Cruickshank driving erratically before crashing his vehicle.

“On Saturday 18 December 2021, at approximately 5.15 am, police were performing divisional van duties and were informed of a single vehicle road accident. At approximately 5.09 am, a witness observed the accused’s vehicle, being a Mitsubishi Triton utility, travelling west along the Westgate Freeway in Altona North, between 90 and 100 km/h, and changing lanes without indicating. The posted speed limit is 80 km/h,” Senior Constable Kimm said.

“At approximately 5.10 am, the witness observed the accused’s vehicle collide with a roadworks crash attenuator barrier at the Grieve Parade exit at Altona North. At approximately 5.36 am, police arrived at the collision. The accused was

Magistrate Ronald Saines asked if Mr Cruickshank had anything to say before he considered appropriate penalties, to which Mr Cruickshank replied, “I’m fine, I don’t have anything to say”.

The Magistrate said Mr Cruickshank was fortunate he had entered an early plea of guilty and had no prior convictions, or the penalties could have been much harsher.

“This was driving when you shouldn’t have been anywhere near a steering wheel, not just because of your learner permit status…the evidence was that you were changing lanes and driving in a manner that falls a long way from driving safely,” Magistrate Saines said.

“I’m satisfied today that you should be convicted and dealt with by way of fines and licence suspension. The licence suspension imposed will be two months, it would have been longer but that you’ve entered a guilty plea and have no prior convictions.”

Mr Cruickshank was ordered to pay an aggregate fine of $1231.50 inclusive of court costs, and warned that if he committed a driving offence during his suspension, he could be subject to imprisonment.

By getting involved in Stride4Stroke, participants play the vital role of raising awareness about stroke in their local communities, all while taking steps to reduce their own stroke risk. Together, they clocked 903,000 mov ing minutes.

Preventing and treating stroke should not be the sole responsibility of the family members who have already had to endure so much. But currently, without their do nations, 1,335 phone calls to Stroke Foundation’s dedi cated phone support service StrokeLine, would have gone unanswered. Hospitals

would not receive vital resources critical to a survivor’s recovery, our Enableme online support service would not exist. We know that without our amazing support ers, even more people would fall through the gaps once they have been discharged from hospital.

Put simply, no one else funds these vital services. With out the generosity of stroke survivors and their families, the Stroke Foundation’ resources, services, and educa tional programs would just not exist.

More than 445,000 Australians are living with the im pact of stroke. Together, we can make life better for stroke survivors, their families, and carers.

Together, we can change the state of stroke in Australia and we very much appreciate the support we’ve had during November for Stride4Stroke.

Sharon McGowan, CEO - Stroke Foundation

The greatest show on four legs…and two wheels

By Michael Howard (HRV)

Moorabool Shire Council

Australasia’s greatest harness racing carnival reaches its cre scendo at Tabcorp Park Melton this Saturday and entry to the greatest show on four legs and two wheels is free.

The SENTrack Inter Dominion has been a thrilling ride through three heat nights at Ballarat, Shepparton and Geelong, revealing elite fields of 12 to tackle the trotting and pacing championships.

Harness Racing Victoria interim CEO Fiona Mellor said it

would be a terrific night’s celebration of great racing and community fun both on track and via the live coverage.

“It doesn’t get any bigger than the Inter Dominion; the buildup has been immense and the excitement at fever pitch, so it’s great that we are going to be able to celebrate the crowning of two champions to such a wide audience,” she said.

While the ID22 crowns, worth a collective $750,000, will be the night’s greatest lure, a momentous celebration will engulf Tabcorp Park of racing, live music, great food and children’s activities.

And after the greatest prizes in harness racing have been run and won the night will go out with a bang, with a fireworks’ display at 11.45pm.

Gates will open at 5pm at the Ferris Rd track and with the great night’s racing to begin soon after.

For those who can’t be on track, they can take all the fun in on free-to-air TV with the special, extended TrotsVision coverage to feature on Racing.com’s channel 78.

For more information go to ID22.com.au.

Parwan’s Jodi Quinlan teamed up with trainer Emma Stewart to score a win at Geelong with Act Now, another hopeful for the ID22 trotting crown this Saturday night. Photo –Stuart McCormick Photography

Just Believe’s front-running half-neck victory last Saturday night at Geelong capped a flawless run through the ID22 trotting heats for Myrniong duo, trainer Jess Tubbs and driver Greg Sugars. Photo – Stuart McCormick Photography

Tree dates back to golden days

By Lachlan Ellis

An historical relic from the 1800s remains standing in Barrys Reef, and it’s not a build ing or a piece of art.

The monkey puzzle tree, also known as the bunya pine, is indigenous to north Australia, but one was planted near Thurgoods Lane North in Barrys Reef in the 19th century.

Blackwood Historical Society member Ray Castellin said the tree – which looks “completely out of place” amongst the other species of tree around it – was used as a historical reference point, such is its age.

“This road had six pubs along it, mines, houses everywhere…the tree is our reference point to where everything was really, because it was there back then,” Mr Castellin told the Moorabool News.

“If you touch it, you’ll figure out why it’s called a monkey puzzle tree...it’s prickly, it’d be quite a puzzle for a monkey to climb. Barrys Reef was at its prime in the 1870s, so I’d say this tree dates back to then.”

Mr Castellin believes the seed for the tree was brought over from England by John Mounter, who allegedly owned a nearby house and mine.

“That’s the story anyway, you’re never going to fully know. Blackwood has a few hidden too…but this one is a beauty, it’s on its own in its own clearing, not hidden by anything. You can see it from the road if you look straight at it, otherwise you’d

never know it was here,” he said.

“Barrys Reef was bigger than Blackwood tenfold back in the day, when all the mines were here. Blackwood was mad for gold out of the Lerderderg for three or four years, but Barrys Reef was more shafts and tunnels, the deep gold. So, the gold rush lasted a lot longer.”

Barrys Reef sits just three kilometres north of Blackwood on the Blackwood/Trentham Road in the Moorabool Shire.

Theft doesn’t pay

By Lachlan Ellis

A man facing a theft charge in the Bacchus Marsh Magistrates’ Court has found that crime doesn’t pay, copping a fine more than ten times the value of what he stole.

Paval Janousek was represented by a lawyer at the court on Friday 2 December, entering a guilty plea to theft at a Coles supermarket in Ballarat.

Police Prosecutor Senior Constable Jason Kimm said police were at the shopping centre on another matter when Mr Janousek was caught stealing.

“On the 11th of April 2022 at approximately 1.30 pm, the accused attended the Eastwood Street Complex Coles supermarket. During this visit, the accused placed numerous grocery items in his jacket totalling $33.45 in value. The accused walked out past the registers, making no attempt to pay,” Senior Constable Kimm said.

“The accused was then stopped by a loss prevention officer, and the items were returned. Police were in attendance at the time for another matter, and the accused was arrested by police and transported to the Ballarat Police Station, where he made full admissions and was bailed to attend court. When asked the reason for the theft, he said ‘I have no good reason’.”

Mr Janousek’s lawyer said that her client had been going through mental health issues for about 15 years, and “was frustrated at the rising price of items during COVID-19” at the time of the theft.

“Despite having prior offences, Mr Janousek has pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity. He understands that if this was to continue, he is at risk of imprisonment. My submission is that a financial penalty is appropriate. In my respectful submission, a community corrections order is not required,” she said.

Magistrate Ronald Saines said Mr Janousek was at serious risk of imprisonment if he was caught stealing again.

“Mr Janousek, this is the sixth time you are to be sentenced for shop theft, albeit over a period of 25 years. The penalties you’re going to face are always going to cost you more than anything you save by stealing other people’s things. Your counsel is right in saying that if this behaviour continues, the courts can do little more than impose imprisonment as a deterrent,” the Magistrate said.

“You’ll be convicted and fined $250, and I order that you also pay $87.20 in court costs… that’s a total of $337.20, which is the most expensive crime you’ve committed so far. It would have been more if not for your guilty plea, and the fact the items were returned promptly.”

Ray Castellin is dwarfed by the Monkey Puzzle tree at Barry’s Reef. The original main road is in the background to the right. Photo – Helen Tatchell

looking up into the maze of branches of the 150 year old tree. Photo – Helen Tatchell

QUICK PUZZLE

ACROSS

1.Shook (8) 6.Whip (4) 8.Caution (4) 9.Mulish (8) 10.Condition (5) 11.Gift (6) 13.Stiffen (6) 15.Expose (6) 17.Doze (6) 19.Bird (5) 22.Rodent (8) 23.Thin (4) 24.Transmit (4) 25.Souvenir (8)

CRYPTIC PUZZLE ACROSS

1. Soccer is, for a footballer’s son, something that gets you places (8). 6. From the tilt of the head, it’s a male (4). 8. After a job (4). 9. As the person stuck with the graceless walk did? (8). 10. What the moth crept into? (5). 11. Like the news that’s just come to us on the French trial (6). 13. She’s from the Rand, oddly enough, in South Africa (6). 15. Being incautious, I had gone back inside to get something to eat (6). 17. You can wager I’ll be accommodated in quarters (6). 19. When you fall, there’s always the danger it may get broken! (5). 22. Splendid document that meets with a boy scout’s approval? (4,4). 23. Made to go when about a quarter ready (4). 24. Used to be as you and I are, in short (4). 25. It does the odds and ends, on a fine wash-day (8).

DOWN

2. Walking only a short distance (5). 3. Determined one had come to stay (7). 4. Like Olive’s manner? (4). 5. Glasses that keep falling down? (8). 6. Box above the belt (5). 7. Would they be appropriately found in cricket trousers? (7). 12. So-called because they have a distinctive bark? (3,5). 14. When soaped, I appear strangely fat (7). 16. Piece of furniture that always has something on it? (7). 18. Dig in! (5). 20. On which cowboys practise their shooting? (5). 21. Edna spilled the port (4).

QUICK SOLUTIONS

Across - 1, Pest. 7, Seventeen. 8, Romp. 9, Sour. 10, Rapt. 11, Sham. 14, Aspidistra. 16, Windjammer. 19, Boys. 22, Full. 24, Sign. 25, Bill. 26, Stalemate. 27, Very. Down - 1, Paris. 2, Samba. 3, Recoup. 4, Seared. 5, Stir. 6, Temporary. 12, Habituate. 13, Maid. 15, Serb. 17, Assume. 18, Mighty. 20, Olive. 21, Sally. 23, Lily.

CRYPTIC SOLUTIONS

Across - 1, Sole. 7, Loll-I-pop-s. 8, Last. 9, S-tag. 10, (a)T-all. 11, Tr-ot. 14, Redundancy. 16, Fire-escape. 19, (s’enO)Rita. 22, Rasp. 24, Loud. 25, Pa-i-r. 26, Old master. 27, Dead.

Down - 1, Split. 2, Lass-o. 3, Potted. 4, Flag-on. 5, Spot (anag). 6, Applicant. 12, Revivable. 13, True. 15, A-V-er. 17, Splash. 18, A-muse-d. 20, I-rate. 21, Ai-red. 23, Pump.

ARIES—March 21-April 20

You are the popular choice this week - especially when people are passing the buck. This is a good chance to be a winner during the weekend. Wining and dining makes your mood soar.

TAURUS—April 21-May 22

Don’t take relationships for granted. This is not the week for coasting. No one need tell you the Taurus motto is ‘service’. The end of the week could find your partner in a playful mood.

GEMINI—May 23-June 21

Clouded issues become clearer around the weekend and it’s the right time to make key decisions. Some nagging may annoy you, but keep smiling. You could find yourself something of a sleuth on the weekend.

CANCER—June 22-July 22 Thursday - Friday will find you perplexed because you are working so hard but achieving little. In financial undertakings, read the tiniest print. In romance, interpret minute gestures as major love signs.

LEO—July 23-August 22

Expect some rivalry from a friend or associate before the weekend. The week could have the feel of comedy of errors, with mixed up appointments and financial misunderstandings.

VIRGO—August 23-September 22

There is no pattern this week. Take each day as it comes. A family problem peaks around Friday, then manages to solve itself. Romantic worries begin to diminish. Recreation is favoured on the weekend.

LIBRA—September 23-October 22

It’s a mobile week, favouring travel, moves and lots of errands. Before sending off important documents, check that you have kept a copy for yourself. A romantic partner seems a little coy right now.

SUDOKU NUMBER GAME

SCORPIO—October 23-November 21

Friends make this a memorable week, highlighted by a feeling of true togetherness. Some complicated questions may surface around the weekend. Don’t look for easy answers.

SAGITTARIUS—November 22-December 22

ANSWER BELOW

The power of positive thinking takes you places all week. Old acquaintances may show up. A relaxing weekend proves a pleasant balance to busy weekdays. Make ‘trust’ your keyword.

CAPRICORN—December 23-January 20

Entertaining, peacemaking and spending all fit in with the week’s plan. There is a charming social evening, a feud solved with flair and an uncontrollable yen to purchase a luxury item.

AQUARIUS—January 21-February 19

Until Friday you feel you have been putting your foot down - just lighten up by the weekend. Then the picture, especially the financial picture should turn better by the end of the week.

PISCES—February 20-March 20

This week the focus is on investment - especially invesment of time. Ordinary jobs take much longer, but the hours are rewarded. This will be a hectic but happy weekend. Romance springs forward after a brief setback

BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK

You are high powered, light hearted and kindness itself, and also you are very frank - to a fault. A little more tact and a little more patience would be helpful in the romance department.

‘service’. The end of the week could find your partner in a playful mood.

CAPRICORN—December

GEMINI—May 23-June 21

Entertaining, peacemaking and spending all fit in with the week’s plan. There is a charming social evening, a feud solved with flair and an uncontrollable yen to purchase a luxury item.

Clouded issues become clearer around the weekend and it’s the right time to make key decisions. Some nagging may annoy you, but keep smiling. You could find yourself something of a sleuth on the weekend.

AQUARIUS—January 21-February 19

CANCER—June 22-July 22

Until Friday you feel you have been putting your foot down - just lighten up by the weekend. Then the picture, especially the financial picture should turn better by the end of the week.

Thursday - Friday will find you perplexed because you are working so hard but achieving little. In financial undertakings, read the tiniest print. In romance, interpret minute gestures as major love signs.

PISCES—February 20-March 20

LEO—July 23-August 22

This week the focus is on investment - especially invesment of time. Ordinary jobs take much longer, but the hours are rewarded. This will be a hectic but happy weekend. Romance springs forward after a brief setback

Expect some rivalry from a friend or associate before the weekend. The week could have the feel of comedy of errors, with mixed up appointments and financial misunderstandings.

BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK

You are high powered, light hearted and kindness itself, and also you are very frank - to a fault. A little more tact and a little more patience would be helpful in the romance department.

VIRGO—August 23-September 22

There is no pattern this week. Take each day as it comes. A family problem peaks around Friday, then manages to solve itself. Romantic worries begin to diminish. Recreation is favoured on the weekend.

LIBRA—September 23-October 22

It’s a mobile week, favouring travel, moves and lots of errands. Before sending off important documents, check that you have kept a copy for yourself. A romantic partner seems a little coy right now.

SCORPIO—October 23-November 21

Friends make this a memorable week, highlighted by a feeling of true togetherness. Some complicated questions may surface around the weekend. Don’t look for easy answers.

SAGITTARIUS—November 22-December 22

The power of positive thinking takes you places all week. Old acquaintances may show up. A relaxing weekend proves a pleasant balance to busy weekdays. Make ‘trust’ your keyword.

CAPRICORN—December 23-January 20

Entertaining, peacemaking and spending all fit in with the week’s plan. There is a charming social evening, a feud solved with flair and an uncontrollable yen to purchase a luxury item.

AQUARIUS—January 21-February 19

Until Friday you feel you have been putting your foot down - just lighten up by the weekend. Then the picture, especially the financial picture should turn better by the end of the week.

PISCES—February 20-March 20

This week the focus is on investment - especially invesment of time. Ordinary jobs take much longer, but the hours are rewarded. This will be a hectic but happy weekend. Romance springs forward after a brief setback

BIRTHDAY

THIS WEEK

Stars & Puzzles ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯

You are high powered, light hearted and kindness itself, and also you are very frank - to a fault. A little more tact and a little more patience would be helpful in the romance department.

Bacchus Marsh Little Athletics

Medley Relay: 3:15.91 (1st); 4x100m: 66.85 (2nd); 4x200m: 2:22.15 (1st);

Medley Relay: 3:13.49 (3rd); 4x100m: 65.24 (1st); 4x200m: 2:19.42 (1st);

Medley Relay: 3:42.24 (10th); 4x100m: 70.90 (8th); 4x200m: 2:39.94 (10th);

Medley Relay: 3:22.94 (6th); 4x100m: 70.53 (6th); 4x200m: 2:24.97 (6th);

Medley Relay: DNS; 4x100m: 64.97 (8th); 4x200m: 2:17.09 (6th);

Medley Relay: 2:52.62 (3rd); 4x100m: 60.69 (5th); 4x200m: 2:07.11 (4th);

4x100m: 68.09 (2nd); 4x200m: 2:30.56 (2nd);

The Centre conducted a Twilight Meet last Friday as their weekly competition. A modified program was held with all athletes competing in 4 events for the evening. 218 PB’s were recorded with 11 athletes recording PBs in all events – Har bin Aujla, Jenna Baker, Patrick Lovett, Bridie Shanahan, Lexi Stapleton, Charlotte Jacobson, Leo Milligan, Matilda Askey, Landen Doyle and Jack Ainsworth.

On Saturday 28 teams represented the Centre at the West ern Metro Region Relays held at Victoria University, Hoppers Crossing, Werribee.

Bacchus Marsh won 12 medals - 5 Gold, 4 Silver and 3 Bronze.

The Girls Under 9 4x200 & Medley teams, Girls Under 10 4x100 and 4x200 teams and the Mixed Under 16 4x100 team won their Region finals securing a qualifying berth for the State Relay Championships to be held at Lakeside Stadium on February 4.

The following teams won silver medals – Girls U9 4x100, Mixed U9 4x100 & 4x200, Mixed Under 10 4x100. While the Girls Under 10 Medley, Boys Under 14 Medley and Mixed Under 16 4x200 events, all placed 3rd to claim bronze. State Progressions should be available later in the week but with these great results the Centre anticipates a good representa tion at the State Champs.

4x100m: 65.67 (2nd); 4x200m: 2:35.41 (8th); 4x100m: 61.84 (5th); 4x200m: 2:21.06 (9th); 4x100m: 59.64 (4th); 4x200m: 2:03.80 (4th); 4x100m: 54.26 (1st); 4x200m: 1:56.87 (3rd)

This Saturday the Centre will conduct the re-scheduled Centre Combined Event at Masons Lane Reserve. All reg istered athletes will compete in five events (hurdles, sprint, distance, discus & long jump) gaining points in each event. All five events must be competed in to have completed the Combined Event.

FUNERAL NOTICE

Relatives and friends of the late Mr. Bernard Raymond Bell are advised that his Funeral Service and Committal is appointed to take place at the Doveton Park Funeral Centre, 1251 Doveton Street North, Ballarat on THURSDAY December 8, 2022 commencing at Ten-thirty (10:30) am.

Bernard’s funeral service will be live-streamed via the Peter Tobin Funerals webpage.

Form and content determined by the Council Council decision

[Name

[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.

Bernard Raymond Bell

The 2022 BMLAC Relay Squad Photo - supplied

Ballan Cricket Club Bittersweet joy for Lions

Darley Cricket Club

By Todd Whelan

Darley’s quest for the perfect game remains on hold despite a comprehensive 158 run win over bogie side East Ballarat at the weekend.

Lions coach Brian Wheelahan shared mixed emotions in the aftermath highlighting his concerns of another ‘below par’ performance in the field.

“Our bowling (effort) was honest, but we certainly need to lift our standards in the field,” he said.

“We must have missed six or seven chances throughout the day.”

According to Wheelahan, the Lions ground fielding wasn’t much better either.

“(It was a) very solid win which we obviously take ahead of our final hurdle before Christmas,” he said.

“We have a bye over the next two Saturdays before a one-day game on the road against Golden Point on December 18.”

The Lions currently sit on top of the BCA table after eight rounds ranking #1 for wickets taken and #1 for overall runs made.

RESULTS

BCA 1st GRADE - (Round 8)

Results – W/e 4 December

Under 11 Seniors

Batting - Ned Conroy 11, Eddie Bayard 9, Kiara Grigg 5

Bowling - Kiara Grigg 1/3, Oscar Phillips 1/4, Olivia Dowling1/7, Layla Shugg 1/10, Katie Bayard1/10, Bridie Grigg 1/8

A close game against Wendouree, with the U/11 seniors playing some terrific cricket.

Top scorers were Ned 11, Eddie 9, and Kiara 5, all three hitting impressive fours. Other run makers were Oscar Phillips 2, Bridie Grigg and Jay Fenwick 1. Special mention to Bridie, Layla Shugg and Katie Bayard who did not go out during their innings.

Oscar and Hudson Squires fielded well, keen to chase down the ball. Layla and Eddie were also impressive, with their readiness to back up other fielders. Ned’s wicket keeping performance was excellent, he took a caught

behind, stumping and was involved in a run out. Katie’s last over was a highlight with a run out and a stumping.

Under 13s (Round 7)

Ballan 7/127 def Wendouree White 7/94

Batting - Eamon Grigg 32 n.o, Clover McIlwaine 31 n.o, Callum Lister 19, Kori Davenport 6, Oscar Britt 6

Bowling - Angus Tranter 2/5, Jackson Letcher 2/11, Callum Lister 1/18, Mabel Ayres 0/5, Eamon Grigg 0/6, Sarah Burton 0/7

Under 15s

Ballan/Brown Hill 3/107 v Buninyong 3/133 (Day 1)

Bowling - R Storer 2-0-10-0, J Bayard 2-0-100, J Singh 1-0-3-0

Batting - J Singh 5 no, C Wallace 1 no

Ballan Brumbies Basketball

The U16 Boys C played out a top-of-the-table nail biter against Sovereign Knights, who were led by long time former Brumby Jack Hollitt.

Ballan started the game on fire, Noah Pace hitting a pair of deep three pointers and Bar ney Batiste having his way inside as Ballan raced out to an 11-2 lead, the Brumbies pass ing their way into open shots. At the other end of the floor, Ballan’s hard nosed defense was frustrating Knights stars Hollitt and Cooper Monteduro, the latter committing a pair of needless offensive fouls.

Nonetheless Knights started to drag them selves back into the match through Hollitt’s efforts on offense as he flashed his improved jump shot, whilst Monteduro bullied his way to the basket to cut the margin to three before Harrison Clark stopped the run with a tough contested layup.

Ballan again asserted their authority as Pace sliced through the defense to find younger brother James for an easy bucket. Defen sively, Batiste, Will Lewis and James Prosser were corralling just about every rebound that came their way, limiting the dangerous Knights to a single shot every possession.

When a clearly irritated Moteduro commit ted his 3rd offensive foul of the half in the final minute, Knights were in trouble. They trailed Ballan 14-27 at the half.

To their credit, Knights came out a different side after the break.

As Knights charged, Prosser made the play of the game. The only defender back on a 3-on-1 fast break, the versatile defender didn’t bite on a Monteduro ball fake and rose against the much bigger player, blocking his layup attempt clean. That play visibly took the wind out of Sovereign sails.

Ballan got a steadying basket when Noah

Pace found Clark for a baseline jumper be fore Pace himself got an east two after strong defense by Lewis.

Knights pushed hard in the final five min utes but strong defense from James Pace and Noah Cardona – who picked up steals on consecutive possessions – saw the Kinghts efforts thwarted.

The Brumbies held on for a 36-32 win in a wildly entertaining game of basketball.

RESULTS

Under 10 Boys

Ballan D 6 lost Excies Acmy 42

Ballan B 14 lost Celtic Tigers 17

Under 12 Boys

Ballan E 26 def Saints Mavs 10

Ballan C 31 def Wildcats 20

Under 12 Girls

Ballan 7 lost Saints Mystics 10

Under 14 Boys

Ballan F White 23 def Ballan F Blue 22

Ballan F Blue 22 lost Ballan Brumbies White 23Under 14 Boys

Ballan D 12 lost Phoenix Cannons 34

Ballan C 46 def Phoenix Taipans 15

Under 14 Girls

Ballan D 30 def Wildcats 4

Under 16 Boys

Ballan G White 15 lost Phoenix Rollers 20

Ballan E 42 def Saints Crocs 21

Ballan C 36 def Sovereign Knights 32

Under 19 Boys

Ballan H 33 lost Drummo Dragons 37

Ballan E 49 def Saints Pirates 29

Ballan D 26 lost Sovereign Knights 28 Under 19 Girls

Ballan 51 def Celtic Tigers 19

“The boys are well aware of this and can expect a real focus on this area over the coming weeks,” he said.

Having voiced his obvious frustrations at the top, Wheelahan was then able to relax and pay homage to the returns from his bowlers.

“Ekka (Ekanayake) bowled his heart out and had us off to a flyer with two wickets in the opening over,” he said.

“At 2/0, chasing 320+ was always going to be tough.”

Wheelahan said Dil (Chandima) capped off an amazing all-round game with his well controlled leg spinners and thought Harry (Killoran) was back to his best, bowling with great dip and fizz.

“He looked dangerous every ball.”

While Wheelahan’s appraisal was firm to say the least, the importance of the win and banking points was not missed by the dual Premiership Coach.

Darley 337, Overs 79.3. D. Chandima 158, H. Wickramasinghe 53, D. Hyatt 45. East Ballarat 179, Overs 65.1. D. Chandima 4/42, M. Ekanayake 2/30, Dr Locke 21/1.

Darley WON by 158 runs.

BCA 2nd GRADE - (Round 2) Lucas 5/300, Overs 45. T. Cox 2/37. Darley 143, Overs 29.2. J. Murphy 57, S. McAndrew 34.

Darley lost by 257 runs.

BCA 3rd GRADE - (Round 2) Coronet City 7/200, Overs 40. L. Hurst 2/39, G. Martindale 2/44.

Darley 9/173, Overs 40. D. Hoey 53 J. Spence 29, M. Hoey 25*.

Darley lost by 27 runs.

BCA 5th GRADE - (Round 9) Naps-Sebas 8/220, Overs 40. H. Hoey 3/31, A. Clarke 3/32.

Darley 2/221, Overs 37. R. Barnes 81*, J. Penny 62*, A. Clarke 48. Darley won by 8 wickets.

Ballan Golf Club

Results - W/e Saturday 3 December

Wednesday – Stableford

Winner - Bill Pickering (18) 35 points.

R/up - Nick Wallace (20) 33 points.

Magpie - 14th Don Wickson.

NTP - 12th Nick Wallace

Saturday – Stroke – November Monthly Medal.

A Grade

Winner of Medal David Leach 80-14-66.

R/up - Don Wickson 80-13-67.

B Grade

Winner - Les Martin 86-18-68 on c/b

R/Up - John Costello & Stuart Miller.

NTPs - 12th Andrew Carton, 15th Barry Sims.

Magpie - 14th Bob Arklay.

Balls 6, Cut-off 68 Don Wickson, Les Martin, David Leach, John Costello, Anthony Moore, Stuart Miller.

Tim Saultry / sportingherald.com.au

Param Singh opened the batting and scored a fine 50. Photos – CHRIS THOM

Sport

The elite 12 Pacers emerge

and a drama-filled week looms. But for now, the spotlight deservedly shines on Stewart’s camp, with Saturday’s heat winners also topping the series points.

Honolua Bay completed a perfect series with an all-the-way win in the opener, with David Moran allowing Torrid Saint and Alta Orlando to battle early before sliding past the former to lead.

As mentioned, key rival Better Eclipse’s race was run only moments after it started, and that was the most of the race’s drama.

Honolua Bay had control and reduced it to a run to the line, getting home in a 54.5-second last half that was brisk enough to hold off the chasers in a pack finish.

Expensive Ego was game but didn’t threaten in the run home, however, Bundoran emerged from three back in the running line with a withering run to go within a short halfhead of clinching the victory. At extreme odds, Amanda Turnbull’s entrant produced a successive second placing that will have him looming as a final smokey.

Beyond Delight’s fifth placing would also see him advance, but well-rated Majestic Cruiser’s campaign was snuffed out, with his seventh placing leaving him a point shy of final qualification.

For Quinlan, the winner gave her a first Inter Dominion Pacing Championship starter and, fittingly, he’s an entire with whom she has a deep connection, having steered 16 of his 17 victories.

“He doesn’t have to lead (to win),” she said. “He has shown he is versatile, but you hope for a good draw so you have plans A and B.”

Mark Pitt and Geelong owners Danny and Jo Zavitsanos produced a second successive win with Mach Dan.

By Michael Howard (HRV)

ID2022 Pacing heats - Geelong

The final strides of the SENTrack Inter Dominion pacing heats flipped the script, with Petes Said So and I Cast No Shadow launching into contention and unseating unlucky Torrid Saint and Majestic Cruiser for places in this Saturday’s Group 1 final.

It was a drama filled scramble for points at Geelong last Saturday night, but at the top end it was an Emma Stewart domination, the trainer sweeping the last night with Honolua Bay, Act Now and Mach Dan all delivering dynamic frontrunning performances.

By contrast, key rivals Better Eclipse and Spirit Of St Louis disappointed, running 10th and 11th in their respective heats, and while they’d banked sufficient points on nights one and two to advance, there is still plenty to play out.

Better Eclipse broke at the start of the opening night’s heats, finishing last but also placing him out of the draw and potentially hampering his final hopes.

Spirit Of St Louis appeared well placed in the one-one, particularly coming off an extraordinary performance on night two, but he faded in the run to the line and finished 23 metres off the pace.

Soon after stewards released word a post-race vet exam revealed he had recovered slowly and trainer Belinda McCarthy’s camp would conduct a blood test and an endoscopic exam in coming days.

Add in Monday night’s all-important barrier draw, to be streamed live on Sky Racing 2 and TrotsVision from 7.30pm,

“He was good,” Moran told TrotsVision. “Clayton (Tonkin) and Emma have said he’s come through all the runs really good. He’s just getting stronger and stronger with every start really.

“The 2500 didn’t really bother him too much, he did it pretty good. He does seem to be a better horse from behind, but he’s just started to switch on now.”

Lauriston Bloodstock’s Honolua Bay won ahead of Perfect Stride, who flashed to the line along the sprint lane for his best result of the series, while Zeuss Bromac boxed on well for third, clinching his final place. He held Torrid Saint in fourth, which would oust the latter from the final 12 on a countback, while Better Eclipse’s 25 banked points meant his last placing wasn’t fatal for his series hopes.

Stewart also had a grip on the second heat, with Bruce and Val Edward’s Act Now continuing his outstanding frontrunning record with driver Jodi Quinlan.

She was able to see off The Black Prince’s early challenge in a lead time 1.4 seconds quicker than the first and there would be little reprieve, with Expensive Ego sitting on his outside for the final mile.

In large part the brisk pace could be attributed to the leader according to his reinswoman.

“He overraced a little bit too much for my liking than he normally does,” Quinlan told TrotsVision. “Had to shake him up out of the gate when The Black Prince tried to cross and it sort of set him alight a little early and he didn’t really want to settle.”

A 29sec first quarter was followed by a 28.9sec second, and then Act Now got motoring with a 27.4sec third that would have the chasers gasping.

Having motored past Expensive Ego to score at Shepparton, at Geelong he made all the running, sliding forward after Petes Said So and then I Cast No Shadow worked early to gain critical pegline runs.

Mark Pitt and Mach Dan were able to set their own tempo, with little pressure from Narutac Prince on their outside, and after the brisk lead time they were able to balance up through the last half.

A 27.6sec third quarter spilled into a 27.4sec run to the line that would see the running line fade, with Narutac Prince (eighth) and Spirit Of St Louis (10th) failing to fire but both having banked enough points to advance.

Instead the story belonged to New South Wales pair Petes Said So (KerryAnn Morris) and I Cast No Shadow (Jason Grimson), whose hard-earned great positioning paid dividends as they ran into second and third, just a tick over two metres in arears of the winner.

The subsequent points would catapult them into the final 12, Petes Said So comfortably on 29 points and I Cast No Shadow on a countback.

While there was drama all around him it wasn’t felt by Mach Dan, whose win completed a clean sweep of victories by female trainers, seven of which were registered by Stewart and the remainder by Belinda McCarthy (Spirit Of St Louis, Night 2) and Jess Tubbs (Better Eclipse, Night 1).

“He’ been super,” Pitt said of Mach Dan post win. “Come through his first run good, then his next was a lot better and tonight I think he was better again. I’m really looking forward to this Saturday night.

“I’m super excited to be able to get the opportunity to drive this horse. He’s a great little racehorse. I think he can (win), obviously the draw’s going to be a big thing but I think he’s a really live hope.”

Trotters progress to ID22’s big dance

By Tim O’Connor (HRV)

There was high drama at Beckley Park Geelong as key pieces to the SENTrack Inter Dominion Trotting Championship Grand Final fell into place on Saturday night. It took a stewards’ hearing before the field of 12 for the $250,000 showdown on December 10 could be decided, while a major cloud emerged over series favourite and Kiwi cham pion, Bolt For Brilliance.

Connections of Sleepee waited through some nervous mo ments when Brittany Graham, driver of fifth-placed Majestic Harry, argued interference rounding the home turn, which threatened to cost the Alison Alford-trained trotter a spot in the decider.

Luckily for them the protest was dismissed and Sleepee – as well as Majestic Harry - progressed to the Grand Final next Saturday night.

Sleepee only qualified for the feature on a countback ahead of emergency Swiss Miss and Anywhere Hugo, sneaking in courtesy of her third placings at Shepparton and Geelong.

Bolt For Brilliance produced a game run for second behind the night’s opening heat winner Just Believe, but was subse quently found to be lame in the near foreleg.

Harness Racing Victoria stewards will require a veterinary clearance prior to the Tony Herlihy-trained squaregaiter tak ing his place in the final.

The TAB reacted to the news, with Bolt For Brilliance pushed out to $3 for next weekend’s race.

Just Believe’s front-running half-neck victory on Saturday night capped a flawless run through the heats for trainer Jess Tubbs and driver Greg Sugars.

“I probably didn’t want the race to be any further. He (Bolt For Brilliance) was wearing me down on the line and we know he’s obviously an outstanding horse. He was the most well credentialed horse coming into this series, so it’s re

ally pleasing that we’ve got one on the board up against him anyway,” Sugars said.

“He’s a versatile horse so we don’t have to draw to lead to say we’re a winning chance, but it will certainly help.”

Veteran trainer-driver John Jus tice won an Inter Dominion Pacing Championship Grand Final with Shakamaker in 2000 and gets a good look at the trotting version with Mu fasa Metro.

The former Kiwi led and held off a brave challenge from Brent Lilley’s star mare Queen Elida to win the second of the third-round heats at Beckley Park by a head.

It lifted him up the overall stand ings for an eventual fourth-placed finish behind Just Believe, Bolt For Brilliance and Queen Elida.

“He’s a lovely little horse and he deserved to win a heat,” Justice said.

“I thought for a minute there was going to be an upsetthe mare stuck to her task well - but he doesn’t give up this horse.”

Justice doesn’t believe Mufasa Metro requires a good barrier to win the Grand Final.

“It’d help, but he doesn’t need one. He just needs a good run,” he said.

There had been some question marks about Majestuoso’s place as a genuine contender in the Grand Final after only managing third placings in heats at Ballarat and Shepparton, but he made a real statement with a dominant 7.9m triumph

on Saturday night.

The Andy Gath-trained multiple Group 1 winner put in some rough strides during the score up, but got away well and eventually worked to the front. With a good trip at the head of affairs, he finished the 2570m journey in style and cleared out to win comfortably over Powderkeg and Sleepee.

“He went well,” driver Kate Gath said.

“He got out of the gate pretty good and done everything pretty good, so I’m looking forward to seeing how we go next week.

“I’m happy where he’s at and I think he’ll get a little bit better this week, too. His work was good leading into this series, but after his races he pulled up like he was a little bit underdone.

“This week hopefully he’ll be a little bit better…”

Mach Dan earned owners Danny and Jo Zavitsanos their second successive win.

Photo – Stuart McCormick Photography

Trainer and driver John Justice won the second of the third-round heats at Beckley Park with Mufasa Metro. Photo – Stuart McCormick Photography