Moorabool News 07 February 2023

Edward Hill and the search for gold

Repair café in the works

THE JOURNEY BEGINS

By Lachlan Ellis

Almost 700 new Foundation students began their education journey in Moorabool last week, spending their first day at primary schools across the Shire.

A total of 698 new Foundation students have enrolled at 17 Moorabool primary schools, compared to 533 last year.

While Bacchus Marsh Primary School has had the most new Foundation enrolments in Moorabool for the past two years, this year it was jumped by Bacchus Marsh Grammar, which has welcomed a whopping 242 new Foundation students (131 at the Maddingley campus and 111 at the Woodlea campus) to Bacchus Marsh Primary’s 90.

Some schools have experienced a significant jump in Foundation students – St Brigid’s Ballan had the biggest increase proportionally with 26 new Foundation students compared to seven last year (3.71 times previous year), followed by St Patrick’s Primary School Gordon with 25 this year compared to 9 last year (2.77 times previous year).

Bungaree Primary School, which had no new Foundation students last year, has welcomed seven this year.

Principal of St Brigid’s Primary School, Jayne Bosworth, said it was exciting to see such a jump in Foundation enrolment.

“There is a buzz in the air this year at St Brigid’s as we welcome 26 Foundation students and several new families. This is significant growth in Foundation and is the largest Foundation cohort to enter the St Brigid’s gates in several years. We are also thrilled to welcome new students and families in other year levels,” Ms Bosworth told the Moorabool News.

“To accommodate the near quadrupling of Foundation students in just one year and in an effort to reduce class sizes from Foundation to Year 6, we have moved from five to six classrooms.”

Ms Bosworth attributes the growth this year to St Brigid’s being “a great place to be”, “providing a high standard of Catholic education for all children”, and school tours and Foundation transition sessions held last year.

Unfortunately, Mt Egerton Primary School, St Brendan’s Dunnstown, and St Mary’s Clarkes Hill have had no Foundation enrolments this year, but are hopeful for a surge of new students in 2024.

More photos – page 6

Just Believe, just breathtaking

By Michael Howard (HRV)

Trotting Final

Just Believe’s golden summer just got even more grand as the Larajay Farm team from Myrniong, and their merry band of owners added Australia’s richest trotting prize to their collection at Tabcorp Park Melton last Friday night.

In an amazing night of drama, full of quick decisions with massive consequences, Just Believe overcame a heat one scare and a final surprise to storm the line in the $300,000 Group 1 and grab his place in Australian trotting immortality.

It was a satisfying win for reinsman Greg Sugars, not just because the win was the result of making the right call in the run, but more so because what this horse has come to mean to him.

“Not only is he obviously a very talented racehorse, he’s just such a character around the stables,” Sugars said.

“He’s been awesome and the owners are fantastic. There is obviously a great group of them and they are enjoying every minute.”

They’ve had a stunning run since Just Believe joined Jess Tubbs’ Myrniong stable in September, producing nine wins, four seconds and a third placing, including the nation’s two pinnacle trotting trophies – December’s Inter Dominion Trotting Championship and the Friday night’s Great Southern Star.

The latter was hard earned, perhaps more for Just Believe’s heat one win as much as his final performance.

Such was the front-line speed in the second heat of the night, it always appeared a top three finish would be required to advance from the first heat and so it proved.

Just Believe had to claw four-wide to make ground on lead pair Plymouth Chubb and Queen Elida, eventually running within two metres of the former to finish second and book his final spot.

Fortune then favoured the brave when his was the first name plucked at the barrier

draw, enabling connections to choose gate one for the final.

Queen Elida drew on to his back, Im Ready Jet, Aldebaran Zeus, Plymouth Chubb, Mufasa Metro, Majestuoso and Majestic Man to his outside. It was a star-studded front row, and when the gates opened at 9.05pm Aldebaran Zeus and Mufasa Metro were quickest out, with the latter finding an extra gear to slide to the front ahead of Just Believe. And it was immediately decision time for Sugars. With Majestic Man briskly looming up to slot into the breeze, Sugars had to decide whether to roll off the leader's back and try and retake the lead or sit quiet and hope John Justice and Mufasa Metro could hold off the Kiwi's challenge.

Sugars briefly shied to Mufasa Metro’s outside at the 1400-metre mark before correcting back to the fence.

“I was a little unsure whether the retake may have been available, but I thought if that decision didn’t go in my favour (and I got left in the breeze) I was in a world of hurt then,” he said.

“I had to rely on John taking me far enough and his horse ran a great race and that was the difference between winning and losing tonight.”

Im Ready Jet advanced to the breeze for the last lap and then Majestuoso ripped forward three-wide in the 29-second third quarter, setting up for a four-way sprint to the line.

Just Believe got his nose in front at the 100-metre mark and then kicked away, winning from Mufasa Metro with Im Ready Jet filling out the placings, which saw all 10 runners finish within 11-metres of the winner.

“I had a lap full of horse (in the home straight),” Sugars said.

“I just didn’t want the sprinters out wide to pinch a break on us, but John’s kept kicking on long enough to give us the run and he just exploded up the lane and won quite comfortably.”

Just Believe winning the Woodlands Stud Great Southern Star Final. Photos - Stuart McCormick

Free kinder is here

By Lachlan Ellis

The State Government is helping up to 140,000 children and families access free kinder services, in what early childhood staff are calling “once in a lifetime reform”. 97 per cent of Victoria’s kindergarten providers have opted in to the State Government’s Free Kinder program, which will save families up to $2,500 in fees per child per year, giving more than 28,000 Victorians – most of whom are women – greater flexibility to return to work if they choose.

Participating kindergarten programs will receive funding directly from the State Government, so families are not out-of-pocket and don’t have to claim the savings back.

Jo Geurts is CEO of the Eureka Community Kindergarten Association (ECKA), which oversees several kindergartens including Ballan Kindergarten.

She said the Free Kinder program would be a game changer for local families and their children, especially given current cost of living pressures.

“It’s a fantastic initiative by the State Government to support families, especially at this time when many are struggling with the cost of living. It’s going to make a big difference, and really help people in the Ballan community who access our kindergarten,” Ms Geurts told the Moorabool News.

“It will be extremely beneficial. We know that early education of course has a profound impact on a child’s development. At Ballan this year we’re offering 10 hours of free kindergarten per week to the 3-year-olds in the community, and 15 hours to 4-year-olds.

“This program will give many more families the opportunity [to send their child to kindergarten], including those who may have thought ‘well we won’t do kindergarten because we don’t have that $2,500 this year to pay for that’. This really enables all families in the Ballan area to consider sending their child to kindergarten.”

The Free Kinder program is a $270 million initiative which will provide 5 to 15 hours of funded learning each week for 3-year-olds, and 15 hours per week for 4-year-olds, at participating kindergartens.

The program is part of the State Government’s ‘Best Start, Best Life’ reform, which also plans to establish 50 government-owned and operated childcare centres, and establish PrePrep, an extra year of play-based learning that will also save families money and help more women back into work.

Minister for Early Childhood and Pre-Prep, Ingrid Stitt, said the program means “more choice, more flexibility, and more money in their pockets”.

“With this reform we’re making sure every child gets the early education they need to thrive,” Ms Stitt said.

“Free Kinder doesn’t just give our littlest Victorians the best start in life, it also gives parents, particularly mothers, the freedom to go back to work if and when they choose.”

The Free Kinder program kicked off on Tuesday 31 January

Service Leader at Ballan Kindergarten, Rachael Heafield, is excited that more local families can now access kinder. Photo – Lachlan Ellis

Repair café in the works

By Lachlan Ellis

We’re often quick to replace broken items these days, but a new community service aims to provide an alternative, connecting residents with volunteer repairers.

The Darley Neighbourhood House & Learning Centre is launching the ‘Marsh Mender’ repair café on 26 February, and is asking for local businesses, tradespeople, or anyone with mending skills, to lend a hand.

The concept aims not just to save people money, but also reduce waste from items unnecessarily being thrown away, and raise awareness on just how many items can be repaired when broken.

Amber Kennedy is the Neighbourhood House’s Project Coordinator for the Marsh Mender, and said the program would also be a chance for participants to socialise and learn new skills.

“We’re doing kind of the Darley take on a repair café, starting off nice and small with our opening day on the 26th of February, with the events happening once a month. You bring in something that is perhaps broken or needs mending, and hopefully we’ll have someone there that will be able to check it out,” Ms Kennedy told the Moorabool News.

“The idea is more than just getting things fixed, it’s also getting people to start thinking about getting things fixed, rather than the first thought being to throw a broken item out and get a new one. And it’s not just that you bring in your shirt missing a button, and leave with a shirt with a new button, it’s that you actually sit down with the person mending it and they show you how to mend the button.”

The extent of what the Marsh Mender can fix will largely depend on who volunteers and what the take-up is from the community, and Ms Kennedy and the team at the Neighbourhood House are excited to see how the program develops.

“What can be fixed goes back to who the menders are, and we’ve put the call out to see what skills we have in the area. We’re keeping the commitment from a mender’s perspec-

tive as low as we can – the minimum commitment that they ever have to give would be a couple of hours, ever…but there might be people who enjoy it and come back every month,” Ms Kennedy said.

“It’s really exciting to think about how many paths it can take and what it can develop into, but it’ll depend on the commu-

nity and what the community sees the future of it being.”

For updates on the Marsh Mender program, follow the Darley Neighbourhood House & Learning Centre Facebook page.

The project is funded by a Sustainability Victoria grant provided to the Neighbourhood House.

Amber and Renee from Darley Neighbourhood House are eager to see how the Marsh Mender develops.

Photo – Lachlan Ellis

Foundation Students 2023

COMMUNITY UPDATE - February 2023

Community Fund Round Four - 2022

Applicants from Round Four of the Moorabool Wind Farm Community Fund were notified if they were sucessful or not in December. We will announce the successful projects in the February/March once the necessary paperwork is completed.

Thank you to all community members who submitted an application and to the Community Fund Assessment Panel for your time and interest.

Landscape and Visual Screening Program

Owners of residential dwellings within 4km of the Moorabool Wind Farm are invited to participate in a landscape and visual screening program, designed to reduce the potential visual impacts of the project for our closest neighbours.

All agreed works are undertaken by Moorabool Wind Farm at no cost to dwelling owners. Get in touch using the details below to learn more.

Community Fund and Scholarships Round Five - 2023

The next opportunity to apply for grant and scholarship funding will be later in 2023. Keep an eye out for details.

(L-R): Darley Primary students Indiana, Eva, Lenni-Rose, Chelsea, Seb, Hannah, Emmett, Jessica and Caleb began their education journey last week. Photo – Submitted

Lal Lal PS

Coimadai PS

Nola, Lily, Jake, Buzz, Jack, Rayne and Archie from Bungaree Primary School. Photo – Submitted

Ballan PS

Driver charged for COVID breach

Rate cap set

tored in the 7.5 per cent CPI that it seems to be running at, at the moment. The model is based on assumptions which are roughly in around where this cap has come in,” Mr Madden said.

Cr Paul Tatchell suggested Council should undertake some long-term planning regarding the repercussions on Councils who set their rates below CPI.

By Lachlan Ellis

A man has been put on a diversion plan and ordered to be of good behaviour until April, after trying to pass through the ‘Ring of Steel’ without a valid reason in 2020.

John Milonas appeared in-person at the Bacchus Marsh Magistrates’ Court on Friday 3 February, charged with breaching COVID lockdown protocols in July of 2020.

Police Prosecutor Leading Senior Constable Clare Kane said Mr Milonas claimed to be on his way to work, but supplied no proof of his place of work and refused to show police the tools he claimed to have in his car.

“On 19 March 2020, the Minister for Health declared a state of emergency due to the COVID pandemic. On the 19th of July, there was the direction that included the restriction of travel with the four reasons why people could leave,” LSC Kane said.

“On the 23rd of July 2020 at 5.57 pm, the accused was seen by police entering the vehicle checkpoint located on the Western Freeway at Bacchus Marsh. He was asked his reason for travel, and stated he was trav-

elling for work but was unable to provide any paperwork or an address to say that he’d been working at Daylesford.

“He made a call to a female friend who said he was doing some work for her, but refused to state what he was doing, and refused to provide any details to police to confirm this.

Police observed a sleeping bag, clothes, and other items placed on the back seat of his vehicle.”

Mr Milonas was issued with a penalty notice, and refused to answer police questions, saying “I don’t have to tell you anything mate. Is this a communist country? I don’t have to show you anything, am I under arrest, or am I free to go?”

The original penalty notice issued to Mr Milonas was $1,652. He was also charged for a breach of bail after failing to attend an earlier scheduled court date.

“Can you stay out of trouble for three months?” Magistrate Hugh Radford asked.

“No problem. Easy,” Mr Milonas said.

Mr Milonas was put on a diversion plan adjourned to 7 April 2023, meaning if he avoids committing jailable offences until that date, the proceedings will be dismissed.

By Lachlan Ellis

Moorabool Shire Council has voted not to seek a rate cap variation, keeping the rate cap at the State Government’s 3.5 per cent recommendation.

Under the Fair Go Rates system, the State Government sets a yearly rate cap – a maximum amount local government can increase rates – with any further increase requiring approval from the State Government.

Last December, the State Government set the rate cap for the 2023/24 financial year at 3.5 per cent, half the Consumer Price Index (CPI) of 7 per cent at the time.

Cr David Edwards asked at last weeks Ordinary Meeting of Council, if there would be a need for Council to spend less on services for the community to account for the cap being below inflation, but Council CEO Derek Madden said that wouldn’t be necessary.

“No, our financial modelling hadn’t fac-

“Do we need to do some modelling over the next 10 years? One thing we have noticed since the Fair Go Rates system has come into place, is that what you did yesterday will have a dramatic effect in a compounding way, over a 10-year period,” he said.

“Have we done modelling that would reflect that, with an understanding of what detriment that would have on the Shire’s finances over probably the 5, 6, 7, 8, 9th year?”

Mr Madden said Council does do quite a lot of modelling and tend to go out 10 to 15 years.

“Cr Tatchell is exactly correct, you can deal with these issues for one or two years, but it’s actually the compounding issue that really comes home to roost,” he replied.

“We do do a lot of sensitivity analysis and testing, and we’ll hopefully be taking the Councillors through that as part of this year’s budget process, because one of the big factors is interest rate rises, and what they’re doing to future modelling going forward. That is something we do a number of different scenarios on.”

Free Kinder is here!

Edward Hill and the search for gold

Margot Hitchcock, Historian for the Blackwood Historical Society

The man who was credited with discovering gold on the January 4th, 1855 in Blackwood, and who received the £300 reward, was Edward Hill.

Edward (John) Hill arrived in Australia with Isaac Povey in 1854. Edward Hill and Isaac Povey came from West Bromwich, in Staffordshire, near Birmingham in England. Hill and Povey were said to have first gone to Sydney where they worked on the Sydney Mint at their trade as bricklayers. Later they arrived in Melbourne and made their way to the Mount Blackwood ranges. Within a year Isaac Povey caught a chill and died, age 24 years, on the 10th July 1855.

As there was no cemetery at that time in Blackwood, Edward Hill buried his friend on his claim, in a coffin made of sheets of bark, on the summit of the hill now known as Deadman’s Hill, Simmons Reef, and marked the grave with stones and a wooden tablet. Today a headstone in the bush marks the place where Isaac Povey died.

After the death of his mate Povey, Edward Hill went about the business of making his fortune in gold mining, after reading a course of lectures delivered in England three years before, at the Society of Arts, on the goldfields of Australia. One of these lectures particularly mentioned that Mount Blackwood, from its geological formation, would be a likely place for gold. Hill applied to Captain Buckley at the Survey Office in Melbourne for permission to take a tracing of the district for the purpose of using it in prospecting that area and was allowed to do so.

Hill states he struck gold on what was called after him Hill’s Tent, at Ballan Camp, Red Hill (Blackwood). A monument near this spot is to be seen to the right before the bridge to the Sports Ground.

Edward Hill, in his belief that the government had offered a reward for the discovery of a new goldfield, went to great lengths to claim his reward. He wrote to the Governor, Sir Charles Hotham, on June 15th 1855, but to no avail. He tried again in 1857 with a lengthy letter to the colonial Secretary of Victoria. Hill followed this up with another letter in 1858 and two more in 1859.

Finally, on September 25, 1863, the Government recognised his claim as the discoverer of the Blackwood Goldfields by

granting him a reward of £300.

Hill, perhaps more than anyone, by his determination and courage, deserved this reward for his belief in Blackwood being a gold bearing area. His sheer determination to be the discoverer of the Blackwood goldfield typifies the type of men who mined and persevered in those early days.

Hill’s descendants remained in Blackwood and were still mining in the area until the early 1900's.

The last of the mining Hill’s, Charlie Hill, died in 1976 aged 85 years. The Canns, Mathesons, Skinners, and Williams families of Blackwood are related to Edward Hill.

On March 12th, 1891, the Bacchus Marsh Express reported the ‘death at Simmons Reef of Mr. E. Hill, the oldest man and pioneer on Blackwood who died at Simmons Reef on the 12 March 1891 age 78 yrs and was buried in the Blackwood cemetery. A goodly number of people were said to have followed his remains to their last resting place. Mr. Dredge, the Wesleyan minister, conducted the funeral service and gave a lengthy and stirring address to the assembled on the life of the pioneer.’

On obtaining a copy of Hill’s death certificate, a curious discovery was found, in that Edward Hill’s name was in fact John Hill, and he is buried under that name in the Blackwood cemetery. He was listed as age 78 years of Simmons Reef and a builder. He died of Apoplexy and Paralysis (stroke). Doctor being, Dr. Edward Plews. Informant was his son Edward Hill, Engine Driver of Blackwood.

He was born in Wendsbury, Staffordshire, England. He had been one year in New South Wales and 34 years in Victoria. He was married twice, firstly to Hannah Cox who died and then to Hannah Thornton. His children were listed as James deceased, Sarah 53 yrs, Helena 52 yrs, John 50 yrs, Edward 47 yrs, Joshua 44 yrs, Joseph 41 yrs and by second wife Samuel age 38.

Edward Hill is buried in the Blackwood cemetery and a headstone records him as Edward John Hill. Buried with him is wife, Hannah Hill (nee Thornton) buried 14th May 1887.

Top: Edward (Ted) Hill, left, and his brother Joseph Hill who were sons of the pioneer Edward John Hill at the New Sultan Mine, Simmons Reef. c.1907. Photo – George Hill, courtesy of the late Edgar Williams

Bottom: A monument where Edward Hill found gold at the top of the car park before the Sports Ground, at Simmons Reef. Photo – Margot Hitchcock

Community satisfaction survey

By Lachlan Ellis

A statewide survey has been commissioned to gauge community satisfaction with their local councils, with calls to be made to Moorabool households until mid-March.

Households across the Shire may receive a call from an independent market research agency, National Field Services, who are conducting the survey on behalf of Council.

The survey has been designed to assess the performance of Moorabool Shire Council across a range of measures, to identify ways to provide improvement or more effective service delivery to residents.

Moorabool Shire Mayor Cr Ward said the survey would help influence Council’s plans moving forward.

“The community satisfaction survey results provide a high-

level snapshot of community perceptions on how Council is performing across a range of areas. This feedback is one of a number of community consultation activities used to inform annual business planning and service reviews in line with our Customer Service Charter, Community Engagement Policy and other key documents,” Cr Ward told the Moorabool News.

“The majority of Victoria’s 79 councils participate in the survey – in 2022, 67 councils took part. It covers council's overall performance, community consultation and engagement, customer service, and overall council direction.” Details and individual responses provided during the survey are confidential. Only the overall results are shared with Council.

For any questions, get in touch with Customer Service on 5366 7100.

Help shape public art

Do you have ideas you’d like to share on public art in Moorabool, both now and in the future?

We’re here to help.

Moorabool Shire Council is seeking up to six committee members to represent the local arts and creative communities, following the endorsement of the Shire’s first public art and collections policy in June 2022.

Mayor Cr Rod Ward said the Public Art and Collections Advisory Committee (PACAC) would be an exciting opportunity for the local creative community to advise on the direction of public art and Council’s existing collection in our rapidly growing shire.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for the Shire’s passionate arts community to provide their expertise, inform decision-making, and leave a legacy for the community in our beautiful area,” Cr Ward said.

“Towns gain real value through public art, and the addition and inclusion of art into any environment plays a significant role in the encouragement of lasting economic growth. By tapping into the tourist and visitor economy markets, public art generates excitement and ultimately leads to increased tourism, which benefits surrounding businesses.”

Public art adds value to the cultural, aesthetic, and economic vitality of a community. It contributes to a community’s identity, fosters community pride and a sense of belonging, and enhances the quality of life for its residents and visitors.

Applications to the committee are through an open expression of interest process. Council encourages applications from people with a connection to the creative industries, and those who have exhibition, public art, community engagement, art collections, or education experience.

First Nations community members are strongly encouraged to consider applying.

The Public Art and Collections Advisory

Committee (PACAC) is an action from Council’s first Arts and Culture Strategy.

Expressions of interest opened on Monday 30 January, and will close Monday 20 February at 5 pm.

Before submitting an expression of interest, applicants should thoroughly read the Public Art and Collections Policy, and the Terms of Reference for the committee.

PACAC meetings have been set for Tuesday 21 March and Tuesday 5 September in Ballan, and Thursday 1 June and Thursday 9 November in Darley, so ensure you are free for those dates before applying. For more information and to apply, visit moorabool.vic.gov.au/PACAC.

Photo – Anu Patel and Velislav Georgiev

Photo – MSC

Bacchus Marsh couple, Brady and Jamie Castellas have welcomed their first child, a little girl. Sloane Evelyn CASTELLAS arrived at 11.42am on Monday 12 December, 2022 at St John of God Hospital in Ballarat. Sloane weighed 2.87kg

Newborns in Moorabool

Bacchus Marsh Soap Box Derby

Billy Cart Racing 1950s – Slack’s Hill Parwan Road.

These races were held to raise funds towards the new hospital.

Speeds of up to 30 mph were reached and Valaria Van Alkemade was the only girl competitor in 1950.

An article in The Argus 24 July 1950Soapbox triumph – tragedy:

Fourteen-year-old Neil Williams, of Castlemaine, was the hero of the crowd and the envy of all other boys at Bacchus Marsh Soap Box Derby yesterday. Neil had a day that most boys dream about. In his speedy Shooting Star racer he won the Victorian open championship section of the derby.

Then, as he was moving into line to race in the final of the junior championship, a passing motorist grazed a back wheel of the Shooting Star and knocked it out of alignment.

The motorist drove on, leaving behind him a little boy faced with a tragic situation. "I was days getting the Shooting Star ready," Neil said, "but I can't win with it now!"

Neil's father and brother patched the wheel with fencing wire, and the Shooting Star moved up to the starting line again.

Neil was first across the finishing line,

Bacchus Marsh & District Historical Society Inc.

and he got a great ovation from the 2,000 spectators. But a protest went in. Austin Walter, another 14-year-old Castlemaine boy, claimed that he had been delayed by the starter.

The race was re-run. Austin Walter, Barry Coutts, of Brighton, and Neil, all finished within a few inches of each other, but spectators had crowded the course and officials ordered yet another re-run. Neil knew his changes were vanishing. "Shooting Star is getting slower all the time," he said; but he gamely went back to the starters.

Austin Walter won the race with Barry Coutts second, and Neil, three lengths behind the winner, third.

But Neil finished the day happily enough. He got a new bike for winning the open championship, and a tennis racket for his third place in the junior event.

The Bacchus Marsh championship went to Neil Van Alkemade, 12 years, who got a year's free pass to the local picture theatre as his prize.

The derby, organised by Bacchus Marsh R.S.L. to raise funds toward building a local hospital attracted entries from Castlemaine, Bendigo, Ballarat, Geelong and Melbourne.

Always keep tracks clear Rules to live by.

Flying high with funding

By Lachlan Ellis

A local aerodrome has been named one of 44 recipients of Federal Government funding, with a set of safety works made possible by the grant.

Bacchus Marsh Aerodrome has been provided close to $472,000 under Round 3 of the Government’s $100 million Regional Airports Program, with $27.9 million shared between this Round’s successful applicants. The investment will fund runway and taxiway surface treatment works to runway 01/19 and taxiway, including the installation of a lighting system which will include Pilot Activated Lighting Control and an illuminated wind direction indicator.

Chair of Bacchus Marsh Aerodrome Management (BMAM), Trevor Oliver, said the upgrades would benefit both regular users of the Aerodrome, and emergency service personnel.

“It’ll improve the Aerodrome significantly by allowing us to have 24-hour access to it. The main reason is for commercial pilot training, but another significant thing is air ambulance services, firefighting services…it’s going to be an upgrade that will benefit the Moorabool community,” Mr Oliver told the Moorabool News.

“Particularly with the firefighting side of things, we have a helicopter base now. Bacchus Marsh Aerodrome is very strategically placed for places like Trentham, Blackwood, Mount Macedon, Brisbane Ranges and the You Yangs.”

Improvements at the site have been needed for years, Mr Oliver added,

“The upgrades are sorely needed, a lot of people can see that the Aerodrome is underutilised. It has 1500 metre runways which are very very long, they were Air Force built. The Aerodrome community is quite excited, the gliders are quite excited as the sunken lighting won’t interfere with them. I

Ballan District Vintage Machinery & Vehicle Club Inc.

Ballan's

Great Vintage Rally

Sunday 19th February 2023

Featuring This Year:

* Fantastic Big Tractor pull, great action for all the family!

* World's Biggest Ronaldson Tippett Museum with 50 engines

* Fabulous Handcrafts

* Variety of Old Time Wares

* Tools, Axes, Chainsaws etc.

* Model Trains operating

* Delicious hot & cold food

* Huge old Engine Start-ups

* Vintage Stationary Engines

* Working Demonstrations

* Classic Cars & Trucks

* Sheep Shearing Demos

* Classic Motorbikes

* Model Aircraft Displays

SPECIAL 3 pm

Saturday afternoon

* Mini Tractor Pull for old Fergies, 35's, Farmall's, Dexta's etc

OldBallan Racecourse, RacecourseRoad. Ballan 9am-4pm ENTRY:Adults $10,Family$20,Kidsfree

think it’ll be a great benefit for everybody,” he said. Member for Hawke Sam Rae said the works would benefit both safety of users, and employment in Moorabool.

“This funding is a big win for our local community, improving safety and access at the site,” Mr Rae said.

“Bacchus Marsh Aerodrome is an important local asset, and these works will create jobs for workers across our region.”

BMAM is hoping to begin the taxiway and runway works when weather permits, likely in October to November. The lighting system will likely take “6 to 9 months to come to fruition, and then we’ll have to put it in”, Mr Oliver said. For more information, including the list of successful projects, visit www.infrastructure,gov.au, and search ‘Regional Airports Program’.

(L-R): Cr Tonia Dudzik, Trevor Oliver, MP for Hawke Sam Rae, and Crs Rod Ward and Moira Berry are keen to see the works develop. Photo – Office of Sam Rae MP

TICKETSLastdaystobookSELLINGFAST!

Yaloak Polo Club presents Colliers Ballarat Cup

Sunday 12th Feb - Gates open 11am at YALOAK POLO CLUB 4485 Geelong-Ballan Road, Fiskville

Fast & furious ACTION – Great family day out!

DON’T MISS OUT... BOOK NOW

CATERED Marquees: $1680 for 12 people includes food & drink

MEET THE PLAYERS marquee: $150 per person includes food & drink

VIP car parking: $100 BYO picnic etc

General admission: $20 per car. BYO picnic etc.

Refreshments available on site for purchase.

Bookings: www.trybooking.com then explore events: yaloak polo

Enquiries: yaloakpolo@bigpond.com or 0437 96 00 85

Ratepayers fund payrise

By Lachlan Ellis

Council has voted to increase Councillor allowances, while also adding a specific allowance for the Deputy Mayor.

The previous year’s allowances, contained in a report presented to Council on 30 November 2022, were $99,150 for the Mayor and $30,980 for other Councillors.

The motion to increase Councillors’ pay was originally introduced at the 21 December Special Meeting of Council last year but was deferred.

At Council’s Ordinary Meeting on Wednesday 1 February, Council voted to update allowances according to the maximum allowances released by the Victorian Independent Remuneration Tribunal on 18 December 2022, being $100,637 for the Mayor, and $31,353 for regular Councillors.

The motion also included a new allowance for the Deputy Mayor of $50,319. Each allowance is inclusive of 10 per cent superannuation.

This is an increase of 1.5 per cent on the previous year’s allowances contained in the November 2022 report.

The allowance increase was approved by six of the seven Councillors, with Cr Paul Tatchell being the only vote against. Against Council protocols, Cr Tatchell wasn’t called to speak regarding his objection.

Cr Tatchell told the Moorabool News he couldn’t vote in favour of a pay increase for Councillors while Moorabool families are struggling through cost-of-living increases. “We’ve seen it with both the State and Fed-

eral Governments taking a pay rise when people were doing it tough during COVID. And here we are with some of the highest interest rates we’ve had in almost a quarter of a century, high fuel costs, high grocery costs… everyday living costs have gone through the roof, and we’ve got the people who are meant to represent us as Joe Average taking pay rises,” he told the Moorabool News.

“I think people have a right to question the people who are supposed to be representing them…I would’ve liked to have had a debate and try to convince a few Councillors. How many hours do we do a week as Councillors? Where’s the checks and balances here?” he said.

Council CEO Derek Madden said the increase was “in line with what is set out by the Victorian independent Remuneration Tribunal”.

“Council has long appointed a Deputy Mayor to help with the responsibilities the Mayor has in such a large shire. In Victoria, 70 of the 79 Councils appoint a Deputy Mayor. The review of allowances done by the remuneration tribunal was published after the election of Mayor and Deputy Mayor (they came into effect on 18 December 2022), therefore this was the first chance Council had to review and receive the report on allowances, as per normal requirements,” Mr Madden said.

The new allowances are a significant increase on the 2021 allowance figures, with Council conducting a review on allowances in June that year that were set at $81,204 per annum for the Mayor, and $26,245 per annum for regular Councillors, plus an additional 9.5 per cent to account for the superannuation guarantee contribution at the time.

Truck causes power outage

A very loud bang was heard, then the power went out.

Mainly affecting the Ballan Industrial Estate and parts of Ballan, the power outage occurred last Wednesday 1 February at around 4pm.

This is the third outage to hit the commercial and residential area since 24 December 2022.

Witnesses told the Moorabool News they saw a tipper truck extended into the air at the CFA complex at 128 Ingliston Road, abutting the Industrial Estate.

“Powercor told me they hit live wires and caused an unknown explosion and to

avoid the live wires in the area, within 10 metres,” one witness said.

“They said the truck had flipped or the truck was in the air.”

CFA Media told the Moorabool News they understood there was an incident at the CFA Central Highlands training site involving a contractor’s tip truck.

“WorkSafe were notified of the incident and its work is ongoing.

“It’s understood there were no injuries,” the spokesperson said.

The power was restored to the area four hours later at 8.21pm.

Australia Day – a great day out

Rotary Club of Bacchus Marsh

More than 500 Moorabool residents turned out to join in the Australia Day activities in the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall. Hosted and organised by the Rotary Club of Bacchus Marsh, the day was an opportunity to get to know our dedicated community volunteer groups, while at the same time enjoying the taste and sound of all things local. Residents of all ages were able to fill their locally made bags with free delights and gifts such as delicious, locally grown strawberries, potted plants, children’s toys, sweets and flags. Music and dance lovers were entertained by a popular local jazz band and singer, while aspiring swing dancers aged from seven years old to ninety were able to refine their footwork with personalised Lindy Hop lessons by professional dance teachers. Lunch was on hand, with hot sausages in bread cooked on site by the Lions Club of Bacchus Marsh and freshly baked scones, jam and cream served up by busy CWA members. As if that was not enough, chocolates made right there as you watched were an additional treat.

Australia

The youngest members of our community waited excitedly in line to receive a customised balloon-tied creation and a unique face-painting design, before heading on out to spend some time with the animals in the pet farm, take a ride on the Lions’ train, don a CFA fireman’s helmet or practise some CPR with the Ambulance crew. In the meantime, the adults were keen to have a chat with the many different volunteer groups, who were able to explain their roles and activities in the community. Many residents were able to enquire as to how they might join in with some of the varied activities of these groups.

Rotary Bacchus Marsh would like to thank all those community groups who volunteered their services on this holiday. These included the Lions’ Club, the Country Women’s Association (CWA), the Neighbours Place (Food Bank), Darley Community Art Garden, the BaccBeat Jazz Band, U3A, Darley Neighbourhood House, the SES, CFA and Ambulance crews, the Probus Club, Apple FM and the Historical Society. Other contributors included the Destine Dance Group and the businesses who supplied the floral arrangements, local goods and produce.

An incident at CFA’s Central Highlands training site resulted in a power outage in parts of Ballan last week. Photo – Helen Tatchell

LOCAL SMALL BUSINESS Ballan & District Chamber of Commerce SHOP LOCAL

SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESS

Visit our new website www.ballanchamberofcommerce.com.au Next Meeting

TOPLINE

Free Quotes

SEPTIC CLEANING

Biocycle

Aqua Nova Taylex Systems

Lachlan Ivers

Obligation to publish – Designated Resolution 5

Publication of notices about the Council

(1) Each publisher must publish a notice about the Council in each print publication it controls and on each website it controls.

(2) The content and format of the notice will be as determined from time to time by the Council. The notice is to be published in a prominent position on the same page as letters to the editor or the home page of a website, or in such other position as is agreed with the Executive Director of the Council.

PUBLIC NOTICE

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Pyers Jacqueline Anne 20-02-1976 to 09-02-2021

The Bacchus Marsh RSL Inc is conducting their AGM at 5pm on 17th March

2023 at the Bacchus Marsh RSL Hall

President Mick Baxter

Secretary Carl Wright

In loving memory of our Beautiful daughter Jacqui who we are sure she’s “still truckin on”

Form and content determined by the Council – Council decision

[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.org.au) or by phone ([02] 92611930). For further information see http://www.presscouncil.org.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.

MN

Moorabool News

*Ads must be emailed by Friday 12

The Moorabool News OFFICE 15 Haddon Drive, Ballan, 3342 PHONE (03) 5368 1966

EMAIL Editorial news@themooraboolnews.com.au Advertising sales@themooraboolnews.com.au Ad copy graphics@themooraboolnews.com.au

EDITOR Helen Tatchell GRAPHIC DESIGN Ruth Comey PUBLISHED BY The Ballan News Pty Ltd PRINTED BY Latrobe Valley Express Responsibility for electoral material is accepted by the editor, Helen Tatchell of 15 Haddon Drive, Ballan 3342. ABN 84 115 355 461.

PUBLIC NOTICE

GORDON RECREATION RESERVE AGM

Notice is given of a Public AGM to be held at The Gordon Recreation Reserve on Tues 21st Feb 2023 commencing at 7pm. The purpose of the meeting is to nominate no less than three or more than nine persons as the Committee of Management for the Gordon Recreation Reserve for a term of three years. The current committee’s term will expire on March 17th 2023. All positions will be declared open and nominations will be accepted prior to or on the night. Nominations from women, Aboriginal people, people with disabilities, young people and people from culturally diverse backgrounds are encouraged.

Further information, nomination forms and nominee declaration forms may be obtained by contacting you local Department of Environment. Land, Water and Planning office or at the meeting. For further enquiries please contact the Secretary, Stephen Conroy on 0418354144.

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By Michael Howard (HRV)

Honolua Bay clinches big win

An enthralled Melton crowd was treated to a titanic battle from start to finish, with reinsman Jack Callaghan defiant on Spirit Of St Louis amid relentless challenges.

He first saw off Mach Dan and then favourite Copy That as they set down a 1 min 20.43 secs lead time, some five seconds quicker than the 2022 edition.

While more pressure was poured on, with Rock And Roll Doo and Old Town Road advancing, favourite Copy That was sensationally eased out of the race after reportedly choking down.

Meanwhile, Honolua Bay lay in wait five back in the running line and got an armchair ride up on the three-wide train behind Mach Dan.

When those inside tired, Moran capitalised, cutting the final corner to the sprint lane. It would be a decisive move.

Spirit Of St Louis’ outstanding fight finally faded in the final stages as Honolua Bay swept clear on his inside, winning by five metres from I Cast No Shadow and Old Town Road.

“The way it all worked out, it panned out perfect,” said Moran, who also won the race in 2021 with his champion Lochinvar Art. “These races mean the world to you as a trainer and driver. They are very, very special.

“It’s a big credit to Emma and Clayton, Sam (Stewart), (owners) Bill and Anne (Anderson) – very, very privileged to them being loyal and continuing to put me on.”

The result also meant the world to Bill Anderson, with Lauriston Bloodstock not only owning but breeding the six-year-old.

“He’s had his foot on the till the last six months and he’s such a trier, he deserves this,” Anderson said. “Clayton was extremely confident, he wanted him to have a quiet run and slot in and they followed the instructions.”

Pacing Final

Relentless pressure and a dashing drive has delivered Victoria’s premier stable the state’s greatest trophy – the Del-Re National A. G. Hunter Cup.

Trainer Emma Stewart and partner Clayton Tonkin captured one of the few crowns to have escaped their team’s grasp at Tabcorp Park Melton last Saturday night, when Honolua Bay and reinsman David Moran swooped late to win the nation’s unofficial heavyweight championship.

“It’s amazing to be honest,” Tonkin said. “It’s one of those things, you just want to stand up and be counted on a night like this, and we’ve had an awesome night and it’s been special.”

Clayton gave much of the credit to Emma Stewart’s brother, Sam, who he said “has done all the work with him and he’s his biggest support - we owe a lot to him”.

“When the horse first came (to the stable) he was probably pretty hot and didn’t stay real good,” Tonkin said. “Now he finishes a race off like that, it’s unbelievable.”

The result built on the Stewart and Tonkin stable’s brilliant night, which included Amore Vita’s win in the Alabar Ladyship Cup and Captain Ravishing’s demolition job in the Cogs Services 4YO Bonanza.

The latter only enhanced his huge reputation with a stunning win, blowing apart the $100,000 feature with a 26.2 secs third quarter to win by 20 metres and set his sights on Sydney’s forthcoming features.

Lions defence abandoned

By Todd Whelan

Unseasonal wintery-like conditions ahead of day two in the Lions clash with third placed Naps-Sebas has forced play to be abandoned with just two overs bowled.

Officials played the waiting game eyeing a 3.30pm delayed start that would have given the Lions attack a revised 40 overs to bowl out the home side, to earn the unlikely six points on offer for the win.

The Lions were seemingly in the box seat coming into the weekend with Naps-Sebas needing 311 runs to win. Unfortunately for the Lions, opening pair Madushanka Ekanayake and Benny Longhurst could manage just one over each before play was officially abandoned and the points shared. Don't miss day one of Saturday's round 16 clash between the Lions and Wendouree at Darley Park from midday. This highly anticipated top of the table clash will pose as

a timely cricket audit for both sides ahead of next month’s finals series.

Unofficial flag favoritism awaits the winner here, while uncertainty and doubt looms inevitable for the loser.

BCA FIRST GRADE - (Round 15)

Darley 9/310, Overs 80. H.Killoran 135, Dr Locke 51, D.Hyatt 47.

Naps-Sebas 0/0, Overs 2. Match abandoned.

BCA SECOND GRADE - (Round 11 - Day 2)

VRI Delacombe 9/227, Overs 80. T.Cox 3/38, M.Seager 1/19. Match abandoned.

BCA THIRD GRADE - (Round 11 - Day 2)

Coronet-City 7/294, Overs 80. G.Martindale 2/30, Darley 8/299, Overs 77. M.Ingvorsen 83, D.Hoey 52, R.Barnes 43.

Darley WON by 2 wickets.

BCA FOURTH GRADE - (Round 11 - Day 2)

Darley 9/229, Overs 80. S.Ward 55, B.Densley 48, DN Hymes 30.

Golden Point 158, Overs 65.4. J.Hynes 2/14, P.Jarvinen 2/22, T.Kilmartin 2/28. Darley WON by 71 runs.

BCA FIFTH GRADE - (Round 15)

BFB 4/330, Overs 40. B.Azzopardi 1/29, K.Beck 1/30. Darley 122, Overs 31. J.Hunt 54, N.Dodemaide 38. Darley lost by 208 runs.

KOOKABURRA WOMEN'S LEAGUE - (Round 9) Darley 6/107, Overs 30. K.Bessell 44*. Lancefield Black 33, Overs 14.4. Kilmartin 3/5, T.Morrissey 2/1. Darley WON by 74 runs.

Gold for girls in relay

The scheduled meet on Friday evening was cancelled due to heavy downpours in the afternoon and following rain bands expected throughout the night.

On Saturday 13 teams represented the Centre at the State Relay Championships at Lakeside Stadium, Albert Park.

The first event for the day saw the Girls Under 9 athletes on the track for the 4x200m timed final, in their first State Championship race. All girls produced exceptional runs, crossing the finish line in 1st place to become the 2023 State Champions.

In other 4x200m events, the Under 10 girls had a close race, finishing 5th in their timed final, 7th overall. The Mixed Under 16s battled against the State’s best, to finish in 7th place. The Mixed Under 9s, although running a great race were disqualified for a minor infringement.

The 4x100m events were held in the afternoon and the Under 9 girls again were sensational across all four legs, narrowly being defeated to claim the Silver State medal. The Under 10 girls also ran extremely well with less than a second separating 2nd to 7th place. The girls were excited when final results showed they’d won the Bronze medal.

The Boys Under 14 and Mixed Under 10s were up against some tough competition, both finishing 18th. The Mixed Under 9 team ran a fantastic race finishing 3rd, 6th overall, as did the Mixed Under 11 team who placed 17th. While the Under 16 mixed team should be very proud of their 5th place finish.

The Centre was only in two Medley races – winning medals in both events.

Once again, the Under 9 girls all produced magnificent races and a gutsy finish saw them fall just short by 0.1 of a second to finish in 2nd place. Meanwhile, the Under 10 girls looked impressive in their timed final taking a comfortable win. Dropping seven seconds from their Region time, and after consolidated times, saw them rewarded with the Bronze medal.

The Centre expressed their appreciation to all coaches who volunteered their time to train relay teams this season and thanked everyone who attended and supported the athletes. ‘All athletes should be super proud of their achievements and hoped they enjoyed the experience’.

This week’s meet will return to Saturday morning competition at Masons Lane Reserve, while on Sunday over 20 athletes will travel to Maryborough to participate in their Open Day competition.

Honolua Bay with connections and driver David Moran after claiming the prestigious A G Hunter Cup on Saturday at Tabcorp Park Melton. Photo – Stuart McCormick

The Girls Under 9 State Champions – (L-R) Eliza, Nyah, Myah & Eni Photo - BMLAC

Ballan Cricket Club

Unfortunately, rain washed out the first games of the year for U13s, Under 15s and U17s matches. The club’s 1st XI ground hadn't recovered from the rain enough to be suitable for play, so only the Senior 2nd XI (BCA 4th Grade) were the only ones to complete a game.

RESULTS

Ballan 2nd XI (4th Grade) v Wendouree – (R11, Day 2)

Ballan 217 lost to Wendouree 8/303

Batting - David Leach 32, Max Burton 21, Sarah Burton 11 not out

Bowling - David Leach 16-2-4-63, Michael Vallance 10-2-132, John Costello 13-1-1-42

Ryan Lister bowled a fantastic spell, full of speed and with an aggressive output putting the Wendouree batters on the back foot more often than not.

He and Michael Vallance bowled eight overs straight each to get Ballan off to a great start on Day 2. The opening bowling partnership saw very few runs coming off the bat and more than enough chances generated.

Vallance, after continuously finding a way past the edge of the bat in the windy conditions finally picked up a wicket in his second last over, caught by Ryan Lister at gully. Young gun Jake Wernicke along with veterans David Leach and John Costello sharing ends came on next to up the pres-

sure even more. At the drinks break, Wendouree had only applied another 54 runs to their split innings in the 20 overs so far in the day.

Ballan's ground fielding, thanks to the likes of substitute fielder Jack Jarvis and 12th man Liam O'Connor was intense and kept the batters wary as quick singles were off the table. After drinks the rate lifted as runs became a priority for the batting team. Costello, with his off-spinners into the wind, captured the next wicket via Ryan Liste once again, this time caught at backward square leg.

Opening batter Haydon, completed a well-made century and subsequently retired.

David Leach, as always presenting a difficult option for the batters trying to score quickly, picked up four wickets in the last 15 overs of the innings. A simple caught and bowled followed by a clean bowled via the faster delivery as he mixed his pace up against the swinging batters. Josh Singh picked up a nice stumping as a batter came down the pitch and the final wicket, off the last ball of the innings was a plum LBW shout.

Wendouree finished on 8/303.

With the bat, Ballan re-commenced their split innings with Max Burton on 13 and David Leach on 1 from last week. Needing 161 to win Max started aggressively pulling a short ball for six. After only adding 14 runs for the partnership, Max was out, caught behind to the keeper after edging a fan-

tastic, swinging delivery for 21.

Michael Vallance came out to bat and continued the positivity, hitting a four to get off the mark over cover. Unfortunately, he was gone all too soon caught by the opening bowler for only five runs.

This brought out ‘The Warrior’, Glenn Easterbrook, coming to the crease full of confidence. Unfortunately, guest umpire, senior coach Mark Kennedy ended Glenn's day quickly, and he was back in the sheds for nought.

Josh Singh came out to bat and made a quick three, before he was bowled by an excellent delivery by the century maker Haydon, leaving Ballan at 9/175.

Sarah Burton, our last batter at number 11, joined David Leach, who had been watching wickets fall around him all innings for the last and best partnership of the day. Sarah was steely in defence and ruthless in attack as she collected two fours and did not allow an opportunity for the Wendouree bowlers or fielders.

After a partnership of 42, and with the game winding down after drinks, Leach went on the offensive hitting three consecutive 4s to the square leg, midwicket and wide long-on areas of the ground. He was brought undone for 32 by a classic in-swinging yorker taking out his off-stump and Ballan finished all out for 217.

This week - Ballan 2nd XI play Coronet City at home in another 2-day match.

Ballan Golf Club

Results - W/e Saturday 4 February

Wednesday – Stableford

Winner - Denis Conroy (16) 37 points. R/up - Hugh Miller (20) 36 points on c/b from Don Wickson (14).

Magpie - 14th Bob Arklay.

NTPs - 12th & 15th Don Wickson.

Saturday – Stroke – Monthly Medal

A GRADE

Winner - Chris Tudor 72-12-60.

R/up - Don Wickson 78-13-65.

B GRADE

Ballan Brumbies Basketball

Ballan Brumbies returned to the hardwood last Saturday as the basketball season resumed after the summer break.

The Under 14 Boys White took on Drummo Dragons looking to consolidate top spot on the ladder.

The boys started strongly as pesky defense from Jaxon Giofches and Charlie Black panicked Drummo's ball handlers, seeing the Brumbies two diminutive guards racing away for a series of easy baskets. When Logan Cassar connected on a short jumper inside, the frustrated Dragons coach called for a time out, his side trailing 12-0.

Ballan didn't let up. Another layup to Giofches and a putback by Paul Karimi after strong work on the offensive glass, saw Ballan extend their lead to 18 before Toby Knight finally got Drummo on the board.

Another basket to Paul Karimi, fed by younger brother Philip after an interception, saw Brumbies lead comfortably at the half, 22-4.

To their credit, Drummo didn't drop their heads, increasing their defensive pressure in the 2nd half. Their intensity stopped Ballan from getting easy baskets, limiting the Brumbies to contested attempts. Cassar was able to score under pressure and Black adjusted by getting to the free throw line, keeping the scoreboard ticking over.

Leo Reid, celebrating his birthday, and the elder Karimi were immense on the offensive glass, giving Ballan's scorers multiple attempts at the hoop, from which Black and Giofches benefited.

Drummo scored a pair of late baskets - a slaloming layup from Ryder Macklin a highlight - but it came to naught as the Brumbies ran out comprehensive 35-8 victors.

RESULTS – W/e Saturday 4 February

Under 10 Boys

Ballan D 8 lost Saints Hornets 38

Ballan B 10 lost Saints Pistons 41

Under 12 Boys

Ballan E 24 def Sovereign Knights 20

Ballan C 39 def Wildcats 10

Under 12 Girls

Ballan 12 def Saints Comets 3

Under 14 Boys

Ballan F White 35 def Drummo Dragons 8

Ballan F Blue 27 def Sovereign Knights 17

Ballan D 40 def Celtic Tigers 25

Ballan C 42 def Wildcats 33

Under 14 Girls

Ballan B 19 def Drummo Dragons 14

Under 16 Boys

Ballan G White 36 def Wildcats 26

Ballan G Blue 10 lost Phoenix Rollers 63

Ballan E 17 lost Sovereign Knights 40

Ballan C 48 def Phoenix Supercats 30

Under 19 Boys

Ballan H 32 lost Phoenix Ninjas 33

Ballan E 33 def Phoenix Lions 24

Ballan D 38 lost Excies Acmy 56

Under 19 Girls

Ballan 30 drew Phoenix Fire 30

Winner of Monthly Medal - Peter Clifford 75-17-58.

R/up - Aggy Germon 84-18-65.

NTPs - 12th Greg McAloon, 15th Don Wickson. Magpies - 14th Barry Sims, 18th Frank Raffaele. Balls 4, Cut-off 65 Don Wickson, Aggy Germon, Peter Clifford, Chris Tudor.

Harness Highlights

By Len Baker

A local trotting trainer and driver scored a win at Geelong last week.

Ryan Duffy who stables at the McGuigan’s Gordon property, was successful aboard Kvintet Avenger-Sheza Spur 3YO gelding Nuclear Attitude in the Haras Des Trotteurs 3YO + Maiden Trotters Maiden, on Tuesday 31 January.

Given an easy time from inside the second line following polemarker Mont Sally, Ryan eased Nuclear Attitude three wide on the final bend to run home nicely and record a 1.9 metre victory over the pacemaker, with Mriya Dream third a neck away after racing exposed from the bell after a slow beginning from the extreme draw.

The mile rate was 2-05.6 and this was Duffy’s inaugural win as a trainer.

R1 Haras Des Trotteurs 3yo & Older - Maiden Trot

Tuesday 31 January 2023, Geelong

1st – 8. Nuclear Attitude

T: Ryan Duffy D: Ryan Duffy

2nd – 2. Mont Sally

T: Scott Garbutt D: Craig Demmler

3rd – 9. Mriya Dream

T: Alison Alford D: Chris Alford

Ryan Lister takes a catch as the batsman watches on.

Sarah Burton (11 runs) puts on a 41 run partnership with David Leach. photos - CHRIS THOM

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