Moorabool News 21 February 2023

Nobody wins on tragic day at speedway

Plea for infrastructure funding

BE A CPR SUPERHERO

Bill and Ben from the Ballan Ambulance Station say anyone can be a community superhero, including Ballan Newsagency owner Charlie Zha who hosts a 24/7 AED. Photo – Lachlan Ellis

By Lachlan Ellis

This year’s Ballan Autumn Festival will feature a range of fictional superheroes, but our real life emergency services superheroes say anyone could be called on to save the day. Cardiac arrest can happen to anyone at any time, and members from the Ballan Ambulance Station have issued a call for the community to be ready to perform CPR if they know how, and use a defibrillator if one is available and necessary, come the day of the Festival.

Team Manager Mark Duyker said it was vital that anyone undergoing cardiac arrest is provided with CPR as soon as possible, as an ambulance can’t always be there to help immediately.

“When someone collapses, it’s very rare that we’ll be anywhere remotely close to that incident where they fall down.

The general public are going to be first on-scene just about every single time. So they become the superheroes in that context,” Mr Duyker told the Moorabool News.

“Quite often our ambulance service, even though we have an ambulance station in Ballan, we can be out in Melbourne, Ballarat, Daylesford, or anywhere. There’s only one car on 24 hours a day.

“So we need our people in the community to look after their fellow community members, and be the superheroes when they’re needed.”

Around 19 Victorians a day suffer cardiac arrest, but only 1 in 10 survive. Every minute that CPR and defibrillation is delayed after entering cardiac arrest reduces chance of survival by 10 per cent, so it’s vital that CPR and AED use begin as soon as possible while waiting for an ambulance.

Mr Duyker said that if anyone in the community installs a

For all Don’t leave farmers running on empty

publicly accessible AED and it gets used, Ambulance Victoria will pay for replacement of the equipment.

“There’s a bit of an older community here in Ballan, and it’s very rare you’ll have to defibrillate a younger person. So I think it’s an ideal place to put an AED, and we’d love to see another one available. We’ve been speaking with IGA, we’re hoping they’ll install one being sort of a central area on Inglis Street,” he added.

A 24/7 AED is currently available outside the Ballan Newsagency, while AEDs are also available at the Ballan Railway Station, the Ballan Golf Club, the Ballan Bowling Club, and mecwacare during business hours.

Registered Training Organisations that provide CPR training locally include Emergency First Aid Pty Ltd in Bacchus Marsh, and St John in Ballarat.

Library plans approved

By Lachlan Ellis

Concept plans for the Ballan Library and Community Hub have been approved, and are now available for the community to view.

The design, which Council says “responds to the aspirations of the local community, is responsive to feedback gained during the community engagement process and meets budget parameters”, was unanimously approved at the 1 February Ordinary Meeting of Council.

The Library and Community Hub will be located at 127 Inglis Street Ballan, the site of the old Commonwealth Bank, and will come at a cost of $7.25 million, with $2.25 million coming from Council and the remainder from the State Government.

It will consist of a modern fit-for-purpose library, community meeting rooms, visitor information, a Maternal and Child Health Centre, and an outdoor space, including gardens and seating areas.

It’s expected that construction will commence in mid-2023, with completion due in mid to late 2024, following a detailed design and procurement process to appoint a construction contractor.

The design has been released following a lengthy consultation process, which began with Phase One in September – October 2021, followed by Phase Two from 6 May – 13 June 2022.

No winners on tragic day at speedway

By Dean Miller

What would have been another fun day at the Daylesford Speedway turned to tragedy last week, with a traumatic accident resulting in the death of a popular driver. Standard Saloon competitor Stephen ‘Dougo’ Douglas sadly passed away on Saturday February 11, just a few hours after winning a heat race on his way to qualifying for the Chivers Memorial feature race.

The Daylesford Drivers Association put out a media release on Wednesday 15 February, which the group said was “the hardest media release the media representative and Daylesford Drivers Association have had to do”.

“All the competitors, the fans, the officials and volunteers and Daylesford Drivers Association members send their deepest condolences with a heavy heart to all of Stephen’s family and close friends, especially to his loving devoted wife, Sandra. Hundreds of people that have been in the company and interaction with ‘Dougo’, will miss him so very much,” the media release read.

“Nobody should have to bear witness to what we all seen on Saturday. The Daylesford Speedway committee encourages anybody present that feels they have a need for support should contact headspace, Beyond Blue, any other support organisation or even just a friend.

“The Daylesford Drivers Association would like to acknowledge the efforts of our volunteers, paramedics, officials, and the attending emergency services teams during the tragic circumstances before them as well as the people attending that had to witness the tragic incident.”

Victorian Speedway Council Junior 1200cc Sedans were won by Arthur Hutchinson

from Braiden Webster, Billy McBride, Ella Sheedy, and Riley Taylor as the competitors got their last racing laps in at Daylesford before their scheduled Victorian title at the next race meeting.

Richelle Warlond was deemed the winner in the Ladies with Vickie Alford second and no other finishers.

Arthur Hutchinson doubled up as he also won the more powerful Daylesford Junior Sedan class. Riley Taylor finished in second place ahead of Blaize Majok-Edwards, Ben Carrington, and Blair Botheras.

David Clark took the victory in the Street Stock class ahead of veteran club member Glen McCoubrie, Robert Smith, Jamie Angwin and Riley Noonan.

Daniel Carter once again won the Daylesford Modifieds defeating Brad Trainor, Ryan Daly, Brett Carrington, and Ian Bartlett.

The winners were acknowledged “with no celebration” in the media release, with the day to be remembered no doubt for Mr Douglas’ unfortunate passing, rather than race winners.

“With regards to the Chivers Memorial race in which Stephen lost his life tragically, the club has chosen to withhold the results at this time out of respect for Dougo. After consultation with the competitors, the final prize money has been donated to Dougo’s family on behalf of the drivers as well as some of the other prize money from the event,” the Daylesford Drivers Association added.

By all accounts, Mr Douglas was a happy and well-respected competitor at the Daylesford Speedway, with tributes and condolences to his family flooding in on social media.

Concept Art for the Ballan Library. Supplied - MSC

The last photo taken of Stephen Douglas at the Daylesford Speedway, after he won a heat race earlier in the day. Photo – Allan Sinclair

Crackdown on ‘phoenix’ builders

Building companies who deliberately and repeatedly go bust to avoid paying debts are being put on notice, with the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) working as part of the Phoenix Taskforce to crack down on illegal phoenix activity.

Established in 2014, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) led Phoenix Taskforce brings together federal, state and territory agencies to detect and disrupt businesses engaging in illegal phoenix activity.

The VBA’s Executive Director Regulatory Operations David Brockman said people with ties to a company that has entered external administration have faced greater scrutiny since the VBA had its powers strengthened in 2020.

“We have a role in ensuring practitioners understand how to do things correctly, and in discouraging risky, harmful behaviour in the building industry such as illegal phoenixing," Mr Brockman said.

“If you think you can avoid the scrutiny of regulators by simply liquidating your company, moving assets and then seeking re-registration, think again.”

The VBA runs a series of credit history and background checks using internal and external data when practitioners who have entered into external administration apply for registration or renewal.

The extra scrutiny means the corporate activity of building practitioners who have served as directors, secretaries or influential persons of companies that have entered external administration can impact on that practitioner’s suitability for

registration or renewal.

If the VBA confirms that a building practitioner served in any of these capacities in the two years prior to their company entering external administration, the VBA can refuse their registration or renewal, or issue a show cause notice requiring them to justify why they should be granted further registration.

The VBA has denied 15 registrations or registration renewals since July 2020 as part of its work preventing illegal phoenixing activity. Among those stopped were domestic builders, commercial builders, commercial building companies, domestic building companies and draftspersons.

ATO Assistant Commissioner George Montanez said the ATO shares information with taskforce members such as the VBA, using sophisticated data matching tools to identify those promoting or engaging in illegal phoenix activity.

“As a taskforce we take action against phoenix operators by working together to disrupt their business model,” Mr Montanez said.

“We make it financially unviable, removing their ability to operate, applying financial penalties and prosecuting the worst offenders.”

Victorians can visit vba.vic.gov.au/check to make sure their builder or plumber is registered or licensed.

If you know or suspect illegal phoenix activity, report it to the ATO by completing a Tip-Off form or calling the Tax Integrity Centre on 1800 060 062.

WWW.URBANMARKETS.COM.AU

Searching for superstar small businesses

Ballan’s Scruffy Fella was named one of Australia Post’s Local Business Heroes in 2022.

Australia Post is calling on small businesses in Moorabool to self-nominate to receive critical business support, as part of a massive expansion of its annual Local Business Heroes program.

Many local small businesses are doing it tough as inflation and interest rates bite and consumer confidence lingers in negative territory. As a result, Australia Post has expanded the program to 100 recipients from 57 last year, so even more business owners can participate.

Successful applicants will each receive a Heroes Package worth $5,000, packed with a selection of support, products, and services to help them grow and market their business.

Up to $500,000 has been pledged to help small business across the country who may be finding it tough as inflation and interest rates bite.

One of last year’s worthy winners was

Ballan-based Scruffy Fella, which benefited from a $5,000 package to help advance their business. Other small online businesses in Moorabool are invited to participate in this year’s program.

Applications are open for the next three weeks to 12 March 2023, with recipients expected to be announced in June 2023. Recipients will receive a $5,000 Heroes Package each, packed with a selection of products and services to help them grow and market their business.

Small businesses have until 11:59pm (AEDT) on Sunday 12 March 2023 to apply at auspost.com.au/localbusinessheroes, and must meet eligibility criteria. Recipients are selected by Australia Post and will be notified by both email and phone on 19 June 2023.

For more information, visit auspost.com. au/localbusinessheroes.

Photo – Helen Tatchell

Shocking daylight attack

Police are urging anyone with information or dashcam footage of a vicious assault in Lal Lal this month to come forward, with the victim hospitalised following the attack.

Twenty-nine year-old Sissy Austin was running through a forested area near the Blast Furnace Picnic Area when she was approached by a man sometime around 4 – 5.30 pm on Saturday 11 February.

Police believe she was struck in the head with a hand-made weapon, which knocked her out and left her with a concussion and facial injuries. When she awoke, the offender had fled.

The offender is believed to be male, Caucasian in appearance, and was wearing black jeans, a cap, and no shoes or shirt.

Ms Austin did not respond to the Moorabool News’ request for comment, but she posted on social media following the incident.

“Went for a run on a beautiful day in Lal Lal Forest Ballarat yesterday…Had to get 4kms back to my car before I called police and an ambulance came and got me. Home now from hospital but in shock with a massive throbbing headache,” she posted.

“Please just hand yourself in. Today's wearing off of shock has been hell on earth. I can't reply to or read everyone's love and support right now but thank you.

“Nothing will ever deter me from being out in the bush.”

Victoria Police have deployed personnel to patrol the forest following the attack, and an investigation is ongoing.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or with dashcam footage or CCTV is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or log onto www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Sissy Austin before and after the unprovoked attack at Lal Lal. Photos – Facebook

Ambulance concern over servo plans

and lane development would prevent cars from travelling south from this point, and cars wishing to travel south would have to access Gisborne Road via Clifton Drive,” Mr Crossman said.

“We were assured that the existing keep clear zone would be increased in size, repainted, and signs indicating adjacent ambulance station would be erected.

We were happy with these assurances.”

But these assurances were never followed through upon, Mr Crossman said.

‘Coffing’ up ten cups

By Lachlan Ellis

By Lachlan Ellis

Ambulance Victoria has expressed concern over a proposed alteration for a service station on Gisborne Road in Bacchus Marsh, arguing it would exacerbate already poor traffic conditions.

Paramedic John Crossman spoke at Council’s Development Assessment Committee (DAC) on Wednesday 15 February, supporting Council officers’ proposal to refuse a permit for a drive-thru restaurant at the site of the EG Ampol service station.

Mr Crossman said Ambulance Victoria had been given assurances that traffic improvements would be made in tandem with the original proposal for the service station itself, which is located across the road from the Bacchus Marsh Ambulance Station.

“Ambulance Victoria moved into its current location on 102 Gisborne Road back in 2018. When the proposal for the original development was received, Ambulance Victoria raised concerns based on increased traffic flow along Gisborne Road…at the time we met with representatives, presumably from the developer, Department of Transport, and VicRoads, and we were assured that traffic flow wishing to travel north would be merged with the northbound traffic, traffic signs

“When we received the application we’re referring to today, we have again raised concerns not necessarily on what’s being proposed, but on further traffic exacerbation. Traffic routinely turns south out of the northbound lane, even though we were assured they couldn’t. Gisborne Road is now further clogged with cars wishing to travel north, as is Clifton Drive with cars wishing to travel south.

“This might not be an issue if the keep clear zones were adhered to, but they’re not. They’ve never been repainted, increased in size, or modified in any way, nor are there any signs indicating the presence of an ambulance station…often we’re totally dependent on the lights to change, and someone nice letting us in.”

The motion to refuse an amended planning permit to the service station was moved by Cr Tonia Dudzik, seconded by Cr Moira Berry, and unanimously approved by Council.

Cr Paul Tatchell moved a motion to defer the drive-thru proposal “to find a better solution”, but the motion wasn’t seconded and thus was lost.

Cr Berry also moved a motion to write to the Department of Transport to “investigate Gisborne Road, Clifton Drive –the area around the Ambulance Victoria Bacchus Marsh station”, which was seconded by Cr Dudzik, and also approved unanimously.

A local bowling club champion has won the trophy for the 10th time, defeating the defending champion in the final.

Brad Coffey made it double digits on Friday 10 February, defeating Chris Love 25 – 14 in the final match of the Ballan Bowling Club’s knockout championship competition.

Mr Coffey was modest about the win, but said it was a wonderful feeling to lift the cup for the 10th time.

“It’s pretty good to have won for the 10th time, it’s something I’ve always wanted to do I suppose. I’ve been playing bowls for probably 25 years now,” he told the Moorabool News.

“I enjoy how relaxed bowls is, you can have a few beers and just enjoy yourself. I played a really good bowler in Chris Love in the final, he won last year, so it was pretty good to get a win over him.”

This latest win comes after “13 or 14 years” of taking part in the Ballan Bowling Club’s championship competition, Coffey said.

Ballan Bowling Club are on top of the ladder in the Ballarat Highlands Bowls Region (BHBR) Pennant season, while Mr Coffey will take part in the BHBR Men’s Champion of Champion Singles, taking on fellow club champions, which kicks off on February 26.

Planning for future growth

ple move to Moorabool from, and after English, the main language spoken is Punjabi.

Close to two thirds of Moorabool Shire residents leave the Shire for work, and the health-related data for Moorabool residents shows higher than state average occurrences of arthritis and mental health conditions.

“All of this data is used to advocate to other levels of government for appropriate and better infrastructure and services for our communities,” Cr Ward said.

“We are seeing a big infrastructure blitz at the moment, with projects such as the expansion of Bacchus Marsh Racecourse Recreation Reserve, West Maddingley Early Years Hub, Moorabool Aquatic and Recreation Centre and Ballan Library and Community Hub.

“As the community grows and changes, we need to adapt accordingly.”

By Lachlan Ellis

New detailed population data compiled by the company .id using the latest census information has shown Moorabool is growing far more rapidly than the average Victorian Local Government Area (LGA).

The data shows Moorabool Shire overall has had a population increase of 33.8 per cent over the past 10 years – compared to the Victorian average of 21.5 per cent.

The biggest population increases are Maddingley (140 per cent), Merrimu-Hopetoun Park (74.9 per cent), Bacchus Marsh (33.2 per cent) and Ballan (26.2 per cent).

Smaller towns including Blackwood, Greendale, Myrniong, Wallace, Bungaree and Dunnstown all recorded double figure population increases over the past 10 years.

The data also shows that the population of Moorabool Shire in 10 years’ time will be 53,072 – higher than the population of Shepparton-Mooroopna reported at the 2021 census.

In 2041 this is expected to jump to 65,693, an increase of 66.58 per cent from the current population of 39,437. Moorabool Shire Mayor Cr Rod Ward said the data from .id would be looked at carefully during Council’s planning for the future of the Shire.

“There has been very significant growth throughout the Shire, particularly in and surrounding Bacchus Marsh, and the predicted increase in population is at an even greater rate than this, so we need to plan carefully for this growth,” Cr Ward said.

“All departments within Council are aware of this growth – our teams in planning, finance, advocacy, early years, youth, economic development, sport and recreation – the work they do plans for and reflects how different our com

munities will look over the next 10 – 20 years.”

Moorabool Shire’s average resident is aged 39 (one year younger than the 2016 average) with the population age spread concentrated on the elderly, parents in their 30s and teenagers. Melton and Wyndham are the main areas peo -

Council CEO Derek Madden said Council had been incorporating, and would continue to incorporate, population forecasts into its plans.

“Council prepared the Bacchus Marsh Urban Growth Framework and the Ballan Strategic Directions in 2018. These strategic documents will guide the growth of the towns to 2041 and beyond. They define the towns settlement boundaries and nominate areas for new residential and employment growth,” Mr Madden told the Moorabool News.

“They also outline at a high level where additional activity centres, community centres and schools may be needed. Planning is currently underway for these new growth areas. Council is working closely with the Victorian Planning Authority and developers to ensure that these new growth areas are planned in a way that ensures the necessary services and community infrastructure is provided to support growing communities.”

For a detailed look at .id’s statistics on Moorabool Shire, visit profile.id.com.au/moorabool.

Brad Coffey has the most championship wins in Ballan Bowling Club history, with ten. Photo – Lachlan Ellis

John Crossman expressed concerns at the application for a drive-thru at the EG Ampol site on Gisborne Road. Photo – Lachlan Ellis

Memorial wall in the works

By Lachlan Ellis

A local cemetery is planning a new project for the community, to acknowledge those whose ashes are scattered outside the cemetery, rather than buried at the site.

Member of the Maddingley General Cemetery Trust, Rick Dickson, said the memorial wall was still “very early into the planning stage at the moment”, but the concept was approved at the latest Trust meeting on 13 February.

“The memorial wall will be a dedicated place at the Cemetery for plaques to acknowledge the lives of people whose ashes are scattered somewhere else outside the cemetery. A memorial wall of this nature provides a historic record and gives families and friends a place to visit,” Mr Dickson told the Moorabool News.

“A memorial wall recognises that person existed. We already know we have keen interest in this proposed project. We have the design for the plaques already costed.”

The Trust has also agreed to name the memorial wall in honour of a long-serving volunteer, who is a familiar name to many in Moorabool.

“We are naming the wall ‘The Allan Comrie Wall’. The wall will read ‘The Allan Comrie Wall, For Plaques Acknowledging the Lives of People Whose Ashes Are Scattered Elsewhere’,” Mr Dickson said.

“Allan's name will be placed on the wall in recognition of 40 years’ service to the Maddingley Cemetery Trust. This is an outstanding voluntary service record, and is worthy of permanent recognition. We have identified another five walls in the Cemetery grounds that could accommodate any number of plaques of this nature in the future.”

The concept has received generous support from Jim O’Rourke from O’Rourke Monuments, who not only backed the concept but also gave recognition to Allan Comrie's 40 years’ service record by donating the wall plaque to the Cemetery.

For more information on the Allan Comrie Wall, contact the Maddingley General Cemetery on 0493 474 924.

Long-time Cemetery volunteer and former Moorabool Shire Mayor, Allan Comrie, stands beside the Memorial Wall to be named in his honour. Photo – Submitted

Don’t leave farmers running on empty

The state’s leading farmer advocacy group has urged the Federal Government to reconsider fuel tax changes, arguing the changes could worsen the cost of living crisis.

The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) says proposed changes to the Fuel Tax Credits Scheme as flagged by the Grattan Institute would further increase the already skyhigh cost of living pressures on consumers and further financially strain farmers.

VFF President Emma Germano joined calls by the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) for Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers to urgently rule out changes to the Fuel Tax Credits Scheme ahead of the Federal Budget.

“Farmers are already feeling the pinch with high input costs on a number on fronts, which inevitably get passed through our food supply chain and onto consumers at the supermarket checkout. It’s essentially a tax on food at the worst possible time and an unnecessary cost farmers can’t burden,” Ms Germano said.

“[This month’s] ninth successive interest rate hike is the latest attempt to control the spiralling cost of living. This tax does the opposite, and has the potential to send food costs soaring.”

Ms Germano said the proposal to extend the fuel excise to off-road vehicles hasn’t been thought through properly.

“A road tax on vehicles that don’t use the roads doesn’t pass the pub test,” she said.

“If farmers had an economically viable and easily accessible alternative to using diesel to produce and transport food and fibre we would use it. The reality is the industry doesn’t have a choice and the modern infrastructure we’ve been calling for has been ignored for years.”

The VFF says it will continue to support the NFF on its advocacy with the Federal Government on this issue, in the lead-up to May’s Federal Budget.

VFF President Emma Germano says the changes to the fuel excise “don’t pass the pub test”. Photo – Emma Germano

Crime Stoppers announces partnership

Moorabool Shire Council

Community Grants Program returns

By Lachlan Ellis

Moorabool Shire Council’s Community Grants Program is opening for a new 2023 round, with more than a quarter of a million dollars on offer for community groups this year.

Crime Stoppers Victoria and BankVic have extended their partnership to raise awareness about cybercrime and to help keep the community safe.

Online scams are becoming more sophisticated and easier to perpetrate, with Australians losing a staggering $568 million to scams in 2022.

With huge losses impacting Australians, Crime Stoppers Victoria and BankVic will aim to prevent online crime by educating the community on current online scams and providing online safety tips and trends.

“Each year, the community faces new and more complex online scams. Crime Stoppers Victoria continues to educate the public about staying vigilant and safe online. Our partnership with BankVic supports our efforts, bringing real-time consumer experiences and technical knowledge to our communications,” Crime Stoppers Victoria Chief Executive Stella Smith said.

“We are excited to continue to build our partnership with Crime Stoppers Victoria, as we help to create strong, safe, and healthy communities for our members and the wider community. It also means

we’re supporting a program that supports our members in their workplace,” CEO of BankVic, Anthony De Fazio, added.

To help protect people from cyber-criminals, Crime Stoppers and BankVic are thrilled to unveil the third instalment of their successful online safety series. Each month, new helpful online guides and practical tips will be released. Topics that will be covered include:

• Hacking — including the most common methods used and how to avoid becoming a victim.

• Safe online practices for you and your family — how to protect yourself and your family from the many financial and security dangers posed by the internet.

• Betting and sports investment scams — identifying online gambling camouflaged as legitimate investments.

The recent ‘Spotting a Scam’ podcast series covered a broad range of scams, and we can expect to see another podcast release with expert insights and tips in 2023. You can find the free resources at www. crimestoppersvic.com.au/current-focus/ onlinesafety.

Past projects supported through the Community Grants Program include the Bacchus Marsh Platypus Alliance’s Platypus Mural at the Bacchus Marsh swimming pool, the Stage is Yours Central Highlands series of open mic events, the Blackwood and Barry’s Reef Landcare series of workshops, and the Navigators Tennis Club expansion project.

Moorabool Shire Mayor Cr Rod Ward encouraged the many worthy groups and individuals across Moorabool to apply.

Council Mee�ng

Commi�ee Mee�ng

“There are so many community groups and individuals working on wonderful projects throughout our shire – projects that are improving the lives of young people, old people, disadvantaged communities just to name a few. Our grants program is invaluable to these groups to enable them to do this important work, and I’m thrilled to be a part of the process and see how grant funding is spent and the difference it makes,” he said.

and Thursday 9 March at the Lerderderg Library, both from 8.30 am to 5 pm. Applications open on 1 March, and close on 31 March. Applications can be worked on and saved in the online portal up until the 31 March deadline.

Navigators Community Centre Incorporated

Public Mee�ng

“I encourage anyone involved in a community group or project who thinks they might qualify for a community grant to check out our website to read through the requirements and have a chat to our community development team, so we can continue to fund this great work.”

Two online Community Grant Writing Workshops will be held from 6 pm – 7 pm on Thursday 23 February and Wednesday 1 March, as well as drop-in sessions on Monday 6 March at the Ballan Council Offices

Employment Tenders Have Your Say: Female Friendly Strategy

Submitted applications are assessed for eligibility and scored against criteria by a panel of Council officers representing a range of different departments, with the final outcomes to be presented to Council for endorsement at the June Ordinary Meeting of Council.

For more information, head to www.moorabool.vic.gov.au and search community grants, or contact the Community Development team on 5366 7100 or info@moorabool. vic.gov.au.

The March Round is the first round of funding for 2023, with another round opening in August.

Planning Permit

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

Moorabool Shire Council

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

Council Mee�ng

Council Mee�ng

The next Ordinary Mee�ng of Council will be held on, Wednesday 1 March 2023, at 6pm

Commi�ee Mee�ng

Commi�ee Mee�ng

For details on mee�ng loca�on and a�endance, visit: moorabool.vic.gov.au/mee�ngs

Navigators Community Centre Incorporated

Navigators Community Centre Incorporated

Public Mee�ng

Public Mee�ng

Employment

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

Based at Darley

Council’s Paste Ups Program is back!

Community Grants

Applica�ons are open for Moorabool’s 2023 Paste Ups Program, which installs artworks across the shire that reflect the unique iden��es of our townships and their communi�es.

Unscheduled Mee�ng of Council

Council is calling for expressions of interest from ar�sts and local businesses to par�cipate in the program in 2023. Expressions of interest close on Sunday 5 March 2023.

Tourism Grants

Find out more and apply at moorabool.vic.gov.au/PUP

• Coordinator Early Years & Youth Services – Full-Time Permanent

Based at Darley

Tenders Have Your Say: Female Friendly Strategy

Rates Payments

• CALD Outreach Officer – Part-Time Fixed-Term

Applica�ons close on Sunday 5 March 2023

Employment Tenders Have Your Say: Female Friendly Strategy

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

Planning Permit

Planning Permit

Australia Day Celebra�ons 2021

Thank you!

Order made pursuant to sec�on 25 of the

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

Tigers cover their bases

Bacchus Marsh Baseball Club coach, Bronwyn Gell, wants to see her Tigers hit the Grand Final again in 2023.

Appointed to the club earlier this year, Gell brings a 20-year wealth of baseball experience to her role as head coach.

Gell is one of a few female appointments at this team level in Victoria. First representing Victoria at the age of 14 in 2008, Gell continues to be a valued member of the Victorian Squad.

In 2016, Baseball Australia selected Gell to play for the Emeralds, the Australian National Women's Baseball team. Gell has played five internationals, and boasts two World Cup medals, in 2012 also claiming the Stolen Bases award.

Gell received the Victoria state team MVP in 2017 and in 2022 nationals won golden glove and MVP. She has also taken out the Victorian women’s Division 1 batting title twice. Asked about a playing career highlight, Gell said, “the 2013 Nationals at Ballarat would definitely be a highlight”.

“Coming from an 8 or 9 run trail against WA, we came back and won the Gold Medal, using all our pitchers, I had to come and close the game from Shortstop,” she said.

Baseball Victoria has this year appointed Gell as assistant coach to the Victorian Youth Women’s State Team, ahead of the April 2023 Australian Youth Women’s Championship. A trained Occupational Therapist, Gell started her own practice, Driven By You, in Bacchus Marsh after moving there in 2021.

Ms Gell said her career choice had influenced her coaching style in a major way.

“Yes, I absolutely believe, when training a team or squad, you are training a group of individuals, at which you need to learn quickly what motivates people and how to get the best out of individuals,” she said.

“You can't push someone to train harder who might just be there to have fun and a relief from the everyday grind of work and life.”

Ms Gell believes the Tigers can make it to the Grand Final again in 2023, and possibly go that one step further and win the flag.

“There is also no reason why the Tigers can't have two teams. There are plenty of people out there trying to find a sport for them, or to be part of a community. I have played all the ball sports. But I always come back to baseball because baseball is more than just a game to me,” she said.

“It is a community and a family. I feel most comfortable in myself on a baseball field.”

The Bacchus Marsh Tigers were 2022 runners up in the Geelong Baseball League championships in 2022. With its home ground at Mason Lane Bacchus Marsh, the club has a fully enclosed ground including a batting cage.

Newly elected club president, Greg Tinkler, sees a great future for the club under Gell’s leadership. He looks forward to the club expanding its teams with the Tigers able to field a summer team next season.

“We will also work this year to build a women’s team and at least one junior team,” Mr Tinkler said.

“With Bronwyn’s very strong background in baseball, we will improve the baseball abilities of all our members. Part of the growth of any club needs to be not just players to build the number of teams, but for volunteers; those individuals helping out in the canteen, scoring, and umpiring.”

Anyone interested can contact the club through its Facebook page. The club trains Wednesday evenings at 6:30 pm, and has lights so the fields can be used late into the evening.

The baseball season is expected to start in late April, with pre-season training starting Sunday 19 March, and the season starting Saturday 22 April for seniors and Sunday 30 April for the women’s team.

Two-time World Cup winner Bronwyn Gell has been appointed the new head coach at the Bacchus Marsh Baseball Club. Photo – Submitted

Plea for infrastructure funding

By Lachlan Ellis

With the State and Federal Governments are busy preparing their annual budgets, Moorabool Shire Council is advocating strongly for local projects.

As it has been for years, Council CEO Derek Madden said an indoor pool to complete the Moorabool Aquatic and Recreation Centre (MARC) remains at the top of Council’s advocacy list.

“We continue to advocate strongly to the Federal Government to contribute their share of the indoor pool, which has already had funding committed from both Council and the State Government,” Mr Madden said.

“And with our growing population, and recent floods and storms, road infrastructure will also feature very heavily in our advocacy work, ahead of the two budgets.

“We regularly meet with state and federal representatives to put forward our projects, and we encourage the community to contact our local Members of Parliament to lend your support for projects such as the pool and roads.”

Mr Madden thanked both levels of government for the funding already provided in the past couple of years – particularly the State Government, which has provided $10 million for the indoor pool.

“We’re very fortunate to have received funding from other levels of government, especially the state, in the past year or two and we can see that our advocacy work is coming to fruition, with many projects throughout the shire currently under construction or nearing completion,” he said.

Among the projects underway are Darley Park Pavilion, an indoor sports centre in Taverner St Bacchus Marsh, Ballan and Gordon skate parks, new and updated ovals and netball courts throughout the shire, works at Bacchus Marsh Racecourse Recreation Reserve, and Ballan library and community hub.

State Member for Eureka, Michaela Settle, said it had been a fruitful few years working alongside Moorabool Shire Council, and she looked forward to continuing to work with Council to get projects funded.

“It’s been great to work so closely with the Moorabool Shire Council over the past four years. We’ve seen some amazing

projects get off the ground through that partnership, like the Darley Park Pavilion, the indoor sports centre in Taverner Street, Bacchus Marsh Racecourse Rec Reserve, and many more,” Ms Settle told the Moorabool News.

“I know that the community in Bacchus Marsh is very keen to have an indoor pool, and the State Government has committed $10 million to build it. The State Government budget in May is the opportunity to get the commitments we made during the election underway. I’ll be making sure the funding comes through for the new home for the bowls clubs in Bacchus Marsh, the traffic lights in Grant and Griffith Street, the extension of the Maddingley bus service, and the dog park at Peppertree Park.” Federal Member for Hawke, Sam Rae, said he would con-

tinue advocating for Federal funding for the indoor pool, on top of other projects planned for the electorate.

“I strongly support building the Bacchus Marsh pool and will continue to work with all stakeholders to get it built. My local priority for our community has been to kick start the Western Highway upgrade with the $10 million secured in October’s budget,” Mr Rae said.

“The Albanese Government is working through the budget process now, with a central focus on targeted cost of living relief for families. Up in Canberra last week I caught up with the Treasurer, Jim Chalmers, to discuss a number of budget proposals for projects here in Hawke.”

For more information on projects Council is advocating for funding for, head to www.moorabool.vic.gov.au/advocacy.

Free Kinder is here!

Learn more at vic.gov.au/kinder

Sam Rae met with Treasurer Jim Chalmers in Canberra last week, to discuss budget proposals for Hawke. Photo – Office of Sam Rae

Drunken crash after a ‘tip of whisky’

was Mark Regan. He was required to undergo a breath test and did so. As a result of the breath test, LSC Volf formed the opinion there was alcohol in the accused’s breath and required him to accompany him to the Bacchus Marsh Police Station.”

After another breath test at the station, Mr Regan blew 0.223 – almost four and a half times the legal BAC limit.

Mr Regan’s lawyer, Scott Belcher, conceded that his client’s BAC reading was “extremely high” and he’d clearly had “more than just a tip of whisky”.

“In terms of the damage to his car, he’s already out of pocket $5,000 or more. In terms of support documents, we have a letter from a GP, we also have a statutory declaration from the boss of Alcoholics Anonymous in Bacchus Marsh. Since the time of the offence he’s 100% dry in his words. It is a significantly high reading as Your Honour points out, it’s four times the legal limit. He’s led a hard life for a 56-year-old man,” Mr Belcher said.

A driver has had his licence suspended for almost two years, and been handed a fourfigure fine, after crashing his car whilst four times over the legal limit of .05.

Mark Regan appeared at the Bacchus Marsh Magistrates Court on Friday 17 February, entering a guilty plea to drink driving.

Police Prosecutor Senior Constable Jack Fletcher said police immediately knew Mr Regan had been drinking after attending the scene of the crash.

“At about 5.15 pm on Wednesday 19 October last year, the accused was driving a white Ford sedan on the Western Freeway near Pentland Hills. It’s a 110 km/h zone. He was observed by witnesses to be swerving from the right to the left lane, then out of control, ultimately colliding with the Armco barrier running alongside the left-hand running lane. The collision has caused major damage to his vehicle and moderate damage to the Armco barrier. He wasn’t injured as a result of the collision,” Senior Constable Fletcher said. “Police attended and immediately smelt alcohol on the accused’s breath. He stated to Leading Senior Constable Volf that he had ‘messed up big time’, and had had a tip of whisky prior to driving. The accused had left his wallet in his damaged vehicle but said his name

“He’ll be significantly disadvantaged in terms of employment prospects as a driver for 34 years…I’d be asking you to consider a financial penalty and the minimum statutory interference.”

Magistrate Hugh Radford said Mr Regan was lucky to be alive.

“But more importantly, the incident involved you running off the road at more than four times the legal limit. You’re lucky you didn’t take someone else out, if you had’ve done, you’d be not before me in this court, you’d be before a County Court judge and jury facing something like seven to ten years in jail,” he said.

“Leaving aside the guilt you’d suffer for the rest of your life having killed someone’s lover, father, mother, child, et cetera. That is a heavy burden. However, I’ve taken into account what Mr Belcher said on your behalf. Twenty-two months is a long time in anyone’s language, it’s going to have a profound effect upon you in terms of your employment.”

Magistrate Radford handed Mr Regan a $2,500 fine without conviction, a licence suspension for 22 months, and said he’d require an interlock condition when he does get his licence back.

Avoid the prospect of a penalty

With tens of thousands of Victorians authorised to search for gold on public land, authorities are reminding recreational prospectors to do the right thing, keep safe, and safeguard the environment.

There are almost 73,000 active miner’s rights in Victoria and the rush to get involved shows no sign of slowing with more than 8,000 purchased in during 2021.

While they’re out prospecting for gold, Earth Resources Regulation Inspectors and Conservation Regulator Authorised Officers are checking that fossickers are licenced, panning in permitted areas and meeting their responsibilities to reduce any impact on the environment.

Due to recent heavy rain and flooding, some areas across the state remain closed or inaccessible, so it is more important than ever for prospectors to plan ahead.

• Know the access rules and consent requirements of the preferred location.

• Check local weather conditions, state forest, park and road closures at http://mapshare.vic.gov.au/mapsharevic/.

• Always share travel and itinerary information with someone.

Fossicking and recreational prospecting is permitted in state forests and in designated areas of some national, state, historic and heritage parks.

Prospectors must also follow all other public land rules while out fossicking, including

driving only on tracks or roads open to the public, taking all rubbish home, and immediately restoring the area to how it was found by backfilling any holes and replacing leaf litter.

Earth Resources Regulation Executive Director, Chris Webb, said it was vital for fossickers to know the rules and check ahead before travelling to a fossicking spot.

“Recreational prospecting has a long and rewarding history in Victoria, it’s important modern gold hunters are aware of the rules and how to remain safe,” Mr Webb said. “If you don’t know, don’t go – with some areas still closed due to flooding this year, always check ahead to make sure you can get to your favourite gold panning spot.” The use of mechanical equipment or explosives is not permitted, vegetation and Aboriginal objects must not be removed or damaged.

In Victoria, hobby gold hunters must possess a miner's right, which allows them to keep any gold they find. Anyone caught panning or fossicking without a miner’s right permit can face penalties up to $36,984 under the Mineral Resources (Sustainable Development) Act 1990.

A miner’s right can be purchased for $26 from Services Victoria. Earth Resources Regulation has produced a Guide to Recreational Prospecting in Victoria and a helpful video, both can be accessed by visiting earthresources.vic.gov.au/fossicking.

Photo – Lucia Barreiros Silva, Pexels

Letters to the Editor

Writing letters to the Editor

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

The Editor has the right to limit the amount of words in each letter received and published letters are at the discretion of the Editor. Send your letters to news@themooraboolnews.com.au

Dear Editor,

Country Victorians know too well the state of regional roads: potholes are craters, road edges are cliff faces and any romantic notions of a gentle Sunday drive in the country are well gone.

Last year’s wet conditions only made things worse – but the problem of poorly maintained roads is not a new one. Poorly constructed roads is not new either.

Members of the Police force deal with the result of bad roads every day. Local officers confront the scene of an accident, and in the case of a fatality, deal with the brutal imagery for the rest of their lives.

If we have not done it ourselves, we have watched other vehicles swerving to miss a massive pothole. Some are avoided, some are not – but either action can lead to an accident.

I note a recent interview on 3AW radio with the Victorian Police Assistant Commissioner, Road Policing Command, Mr Glenn Weir, who admitted that his officers were ‘constantly’ alerting road authorities to the parlous condition of Victoria’s road network.

But what he also admitted was that serious and fatal accidents currently under investigation involved damaged road infrastructure.

Put simply, Victoria’s bad roads are leading to car accidents in which some people have died.

It is why I have raised the matter in the Parliament of Victoria.

On your behalf, I have asked the Minister for Police to provide a breakdown on the percentage of serious and fatal road accidents in Victoria in which police officers have identified road conditions as a contributing factor.

I don’t think I’m asking too much for Victorian motorists to be able to drive on safe roads.

Bev McArthur MP, Member for Western Victoria Region

Keep an eye out for fake tradies

Police are warning residents to be cautious of fake tradies operating in the area. Fake tradies, also known as travelling conmen, are dishonest tradesmen who prey upon unsuspecting customers and disappear with their money after doing substandard work or not doing the work at all.

They often offer to re-seal (bitumen) driveways or re-paint a house roof, guttering, et cetera.

Fake tradies may approach people while they are working in the garden, or they may door knock. They look for houses that have handrails and ramps, often targeting older Victorians and vulnerable people. They ask for cash before starting the work and will offer to drive you to an ATM.

They move quickly and usually only give a first name and mobile number - so contacting them afterwards is difficult.

Fake tradies appear more frequently during warmer weather and natural disasters or emergencies – such as coronavirus (COVID-19), when vulnerable people may need assistance.

If you know fake tradies are in your area,

gather as much information as you can such as their name and car registration, and report them to the travelling conmen hotline on 1300 133 408 and call your local police.

To find your local police station’s contact details, visit www.police.vic.gov.au/location.

Please pass on this information to your friends, family and neighbours who may be vulnerable to this kind of scam.

For more information and advice on fake tradies, visit Consumer Affairs Victoria website at www.consumer.vic.gov.au/faketradies.

Scorcher in the valley

A Total Fire Ban day saw the mercury climb to just over 40 degrees last Friday and with that, came fire.

The Rowsley Valley bore the brunt, especially around the Glenmore area with the flames lapping at the door step of homes.

There were 47 CFA units that responded to a grass and scrub fire on Glenmore Road in Glenmore at around 3:35pm, Friday 17 February.

A CFA spokesperson told the Moorabool News air appliances were also called to the scene.

“Wind speed was high, heading in an easterly and northern direction.

“Nearby assets were under threat with asset protection activated. Power lines were involved,” the spokesperson said. Glenmore Road was blocked in both east and west

directions.

Ambulance Victoria along with Victoria Police were also called to assist on the day, with Forest Fire Management Victoria supplying a dozer appliance and, contributed to the clean up the next day.

The CFA spokesperson said a Watch and Act warning was implemented, advising to leave now.

“This was later downgraded to advice public should remain informed.”

Due to inaccessible terrain in some parts, a small section was not contained on the Friday night.

“Crews continued to work through the night with five trucks on scene and additional crews attended the following day.”

Fortunately, due to the efforts of all, including precious

volunteer firefighters, crews were able to save 16 sheds and nine homes.

“One shed and three machinery sheds were impacted by the blaze,” the spokesperson said.

Moorabool Shire Council sent out two graders and a support vehicle on Friday night and organised the road closures.

Nearly 48 hours after the fire began, the incident was deemed under control at 6:22pm 19 February.

Smoke could be seen billowing from burnt structures on the Saturday morning, with CFA volunteer brigades continuing in their efforts to water down these, whilst Forest Fire Management crews patrolled the fire area. CFA media did not comment on how the fire started or how many hectares were burnt.

A CFA unit continued to monitor structure fires the following day. Photo - Helen Tatchell

Catch A Wave stuns the Captain

By Tim O'Connor (HRV)

Catch A Wave produced something special to defeat superstar rival Captain Ravishing in last Saturday night’s Chariots of Fire.

Emma Stewart’s speed machine was thought by many to be just about unbeatable in the Group 1 classic for four-yearolds, but his fellow Victorian proved simply too good on the big stage at Menangle (NSW).

Catch A Wave sat parked for the majority of the 1609m dash, and despite looking beaten rounding the home turn, was able to knuckle down and reel in the red-hot $1.15 favourite inside the last 50m for a truly memorable victory.

“Richard Matthews, he’d waited his whole life to get a horse like this. He’d spent so much money and (put so much) time into the sport for years, and unfortunatel,y he passed away a few months ago,” driver Kate Gath said.

“Obviously Captain Ravishing didn’t go his best, but this horse was super and it’s just a shame Richard wasn’t here to see it.

“It’s still great all the same.”

Gath pressed forward from barrier six and tested Captain Ravishing in the early stages of Saturday night’s race, but was forced to sit outside him when the punters’ pick kicked up and held a comfortable advantage.

And it looked as though the sport’s spruik horse was going to streak away for a dominant success when he broke clear of Catch A Wave approaching the turn, but the big bay gelding showed great courage to fight back and defeat his rival. In the end, Catch A Wave won by 2.6m in a mile rate of 1:49.1, with

Cantfindabettorman third.

“Into the straight I was still travelling, but you still think Captain Ravishing is going to find a gear,” Gath said.

“He was sort of asking him around the last corner, Mark Pitt was, and I thought it would get going once I got outside of it, but it just didn’t.

“In the run, if it wasn’t Captain Ravishing I would have

Outlaw Man gives rivals the slip

thought I had a great hope at the top of the straight, but to burn off the arm as well is just a super effort.”

Saturday night’s Chariots of Fire wasn’t run until close to 11pm after wild weather caused a significant delay to the start of the meeting.

Catch A Wave, who is trained by Gath’s husband Andy, has now secured a spot in March 4’s $1million Miracle Mile.

Overall, a good double

By Tim O'Connor (HRV)

Myrniong’s Jess Tubbs and Greg Sugars combined for Saturday night’s only winning double at Victorian headquarters, with top trotter One Over All and stable veteran Triple Eight both successful.

One Over All showed her class in a rare standing start event over the long trip at Tabcorp Park Melton, while Triple Eight confirmed a trip to Sydney for next weekend’s Miracle Mile qualifiers after scoring his first victory since July last year.

By Tim O'Connor (HRV)

Master trainer Andy Gath has built a reputation on identifying and succeeding with tried New Zealand horses, and a recent buy from across the Tasman might be one of his best yet.

Five-year-old gelding Outlaw Man continued a sparkling start to life in Australia when he strung together a seventh-straight victory for new connections at Tabcorp Park Melton last Saturday night.

And this triumph was arguably the most impressive of his career.

The son of Sweet Lou speared straight to the lead from barrier two and never looked like being caught, with dual 27.2sec closing quarters capping a dominant 7.8m victory in a mile rate of 1:52.5 (1720m).

It was a second successive win with Outlaw Man for young reinsman Jordan Leedham, who drove a similar front-running race seven days prior.

“Hopefully after tonight a few more people think he’s a lot better than what they probably think he is because he’s just been going through the grades,” Leedham said after the Prydes EasiFeed Pace.

“Tonight showed what he can really do, and the whole way he was up wanting to roll so I was happy to just go with him and let him do his thing.

“He just showed what he can really do.”

Leedham works for Gath Racing and knows all about the success the stable has enjoyed with pacers and trotters from overseas.

“All the horses that Andy has purchased and brought over from New Zealand have all done terrific jobs and have all gone on to win a metro or two, but I reckon he’d be up there with one of the better ones that we’ve had come through lately,” Leedham said.

“And he’s one of my favourites too, so I’m happy with that.”

Outlaw Man won his first start for Gath and new owners in December last year, and after being beaten into third a day later at Ballarat, has prevailed in his subsequent seven runs. The blitz here in Australia has raked in more than $60,000 for connections and taken his career record to 12 wins from 36 career starts.

“He’s bred to have a lot of high speed, and he can sustain it for that 600-800 metres and just look like he’s doing it effortlessly,” Leedham said.

“He was super tonight.”

Kate Gath steers Catch a Wave to victory at Menangle NSW last Saturday night. Photo – Racing at Club Menangle

Outlaw Man winning the Prydes Easifeed Pace. Photo – Stuart McCormick

Triple Eight winning his spot at the Miracle Mile qualifiers. Photo – Stuart McCormick

One Over All in a rare standing start. Photo – Stuart McCormick

Dates: Mar 4, Apr 1 Fluro for Neuro, May 6, June 3 Inglis Street (Main Street), Ballan

A monthly community market with homemade, home grown goods and wares, with the Lions BBQ to boot!

Ba hus Marsh

Dates: 2nd Saturday of every month 9am - 1pm • 73 Inglis st, Ballan

Fresh local produce, wine, bread, homemade products and plants. The gold coin entry donations going back into our community.

Darley

Dates: Feb 18, Mar 4, Mar 18 9am - 1pm • Cnr Fitzroy & Grey Sts, Darley

Market/Flea Market held at Darley Park - on the 1st & 3rd Saturdays of each month.

Eynesbury

Dates:

TRADES & BUSINESS

Free Quotes

LOCAL SMALL BUSINESS Ballan & District Chamber of Commerce SHOP LOCAL

SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESS

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

SEPTIC CLEANING

Biocycle

Aqua Nova Taylex Systems

Lachlan Ivers

LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS

DEATH NOTICE

LINSDELL (nee Kerr) Heather Ewing 22/5/1929 - 11/2/2023

Passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family aged 93 years.

Dearly beloved wife of John (dec 2017), much loved and cherished mother of Robyn, Joanne, Kaye and Greg. Loved mother-in-law of Greg, Paul, Chris and Maxine. Devoted and adored Hekky of Ben, Louisa, Gabi, Sam, Jass, Phoebe, Lachi and Elle.

A gracious and elegant woman who made a lifelong contribution to her community. Thank you for a lifetime of happy memories.

Forever in our hearts.

A special thank you to Dr Woodrow Wu and the Bacchus Marsh Community Palliative Care Service. Family & Friends gathered at Michael Crawford Funerals Chapel, Bacchus Marsh today to farewell Heather. You can view the Service on our website: michaelcrawfordfunerals.com.au

(Select – Funeral Notices)

DEATH NOTICE

GILLESPIE –Irwin Walter

17.09.1958 – 15.02.2023

Loving father of Lisa, Mellissa and Andrew. Loving fatherin-law of Josh and Shari. Adored Pop of Cooper, Addison and Sadie, and Granddad of James, Scout and Alice. ‘Irky’ was the much loved larrikin of Bacchus Marsh, and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

FUNERAL NOTICE

GILLESPIE – Irwin Walter

The Funeral Service for Mr Irwin Walter Gillespie will be held at the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall, 207 Main Street Bacchus Marsh on FRIDAY (February 24, 2023) commencing at 2.30pm.

Following the Service Irwin will be laid to rest at the Maddingley Cemetery.

The Service for Irwin will be live streamed and available to view on our website: michaelcrawfordfunerals.com.au (Select – Funeral Notices)

Bacchus Marsh Ph 5367 6733 michaelcrawfordfunerals.com.au

END OF BUSINESS CLEARANCE SALE

21 Greendale-Myrniong Rd, Greendale

0419 835 770

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Email careers.vic@ymca.org.au or follow the link below for further information.

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Go online for the full Position Description and other careers at victoria.ymca.org.au/staff-and-volunteers/careers

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We’re looking for a skilled groundsperson to join the team at Lady Northcote Discovery Camp! This rewarding role will bring the site’s Enviromental Management Plan to life and educate campers on the importance of the environment. Boasting a great work-life balance, casual, part-time or full time options can be discussed with the right applicant. Email careers.vic@ymca.org.au or follow the link below for further information..

Seeking a passionate and skilled chef to join the team at Lady Northcote Discovery Camp in the beautiful Rowsley Valley!

Enjoy excellent work-life balance in a full time, 2IC kitchen role with no evenings required, ever! Make an impact in your work, feeding our appreciative campers.

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Email careers.vic@ymca.org.au or follow the link below for further information

Go online for the full Position Description and other careers at victoria.ymca.org.au/staff-and-volunteers/careers

Email careers.vic@ymca.org.au or follow the link below for further information

The YMCA is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the safeguarding of children and young people.

Go online for the full Position Description and other careers at victoria.ymca.org.au/staff-and-volunteers/careers

The YMCA is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the safeguarding of children and young people.

Go online for the full Position Description and other careers at victoria.ymca.org.au/staff-and-volunteers/careers

SITUATIONS VACANT

CAFÉ PERSON - Ballan

1. Obligation to publish – Designated

We are looking for an all arounder to work in our small café at the Millrose Quilting & Gallery.

5. Publication of notices about the

Days required are Tuesday Friday & Saturday, happy to discuss days.

(1) Each publisher must publish controls and on each website

Duties include cooking, barista & food service plus serving front of house. Must be friendly, organised, have attention to detail, a good attitude & be happy to work in a team.

If this sounds like you, please contact Sue Bartleman on 0419 344 489, or pop into the shop with your resume.

(2) The content and format of the Council. The notice is to be published to the editor or the home page Executive Director of the Council.

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

2. Form and content determined

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

[Name of publication] is bound by the Standards may have been breached, email (info@presscouncil.org.au) 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.

Bacchus Marsh Little Athletics

The Centre had 31 athletes represented at the Western Metro Region Track & Field Carnival last weekend at Goldsworthy Reserve, Corio.

The Bacchus Marsh athletes were up against the Region’s best, which included athletes representing Altona, Brimbank, Corio, Geelong, Gisborne, Melton, South Melbourne, South Coast, Werribee and Williamstown.

The Centre won an amazing 16 Gold, 12 Silver and 10 Bronze medals.

was rewarded with a Gold medal in the 300m Hurdles. Mackenzie Estlick flew down the straight to record a convincing win the 100m while Sam White also notched up a win in the 1500m. Alexis Farrell threw a PB in the Shot Put to take first place and Eni Olaitan ran a magnificent 200 metres to be presented with the Gold medal.

All these athletes have been rewarded for their performances with an automatic qualifier to the State Track & Field Championships to be held at Lakeside Stadium on March 11 and 12.

Ballan Golf Club

Results - W/e Saturday 18 February

Wednesday – Stableford

Winner - Hugh Miller (19) 38 points.

R/up - Bob Arklay (10) 36 points.

Dannielle Ide

Bridie Shanahan, in her final Region Carnival, won 4 Gold medals, winning the Shot Put, Javelin, Long Jump and Triple Jump. Skyla Berryman dominated on the track, winning Gold in the 70m, 100m, 200m with younger sister Mya crossing the finish line first in the 70m and 100m. Nicholas Mai was in sensational form, as he glided over the hurdles, claiming victory in the 80m and 200m hurdles.

Little Athletics Victoria will announce further progressions later in the week, and with a large number of 2nd and 3rd place-getters, Bacchus Marsh should be well represented at the State Championships.

This week’s meet will return to Saturday morning competition at Masons Lane Reserve at 8.30am.

NTPs - 12th Chris Tudor, 15th Don Wickson. Magpie - 14th Barry Sims.

Saturday– Stroke

Al Sanders Memorial 4 Person Ambrose

Gross Winners - D. Clark, D. Lynch, T. Scobie, T. Clark 54-8.125-45.875.

Net Winners - Paul Rogers, Peter Cox, M. Reid, John McLeod 56-8.375-47.625.

Net Second - H. Miller, C. Torpy, I Torpy, N. Torpy 61-12-49.

Net Third - P. Clifford, B. Clifford, T. Clifford, A. Bourke 59-8.5-50.5.

NTPs - 1st T. Hearn, 2nd C. Sanders, 3rd M. Kersley, 7th N. Toohey, 12th D. Briody, 13th J. McLeod, 14th J. McLeod, 15th Pete Clifford, 16th A. Carton, 17th C. Dunn.

Longest Drives - 6th A. Bourke, 11th P. Cox.

MN

Moorabool News

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.

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BIKE TYRE motor Size 110/90/1962M NHS New $50 0424 930 653

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BOOTS Size 8, Black, only worn once, EC $20 Phone 0432 973 539

BRICKS secondhand (mixed colours) approx. 100 FREE Pick up Bacchus Marsh - 0481 744 011

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CAR MATS new, heavy duty x 4 $20 – 5310 6662

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513

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State Qualifiers Skyla, Bridie & Mya from the Bacchus Marsh Centre. Photo - BMLAC

Sport

Hearty Lions made to pay

By Todd Whelan

Expect BCA title contenders Darley to waste little time lamenting Saturday's two wicket loss to Wendouree as the penultimate round of the home and away season concluded.

The Lions set the Reds a mediocre 170 runs for victory on day two and were seemingly in the box seat for a period as strike bowler Madushanka Ekanayake led the way with a five wicket haul to have the visitors in trouble at 8/110. But just as the likelihood of an upset victory loomed reality, the Reds steadied to remain wicketless, seeing out the run chase with six overs to spare.

Despite the narrow loss and what the Reds may themselves consider 'the great escape', Lions coach Brian Wheelahan was proud of his boy’s effort with the ball.

"Ekka bowled one of the finest spells to put us in a winning position," he said.

"His pace, control, line and length bowling was phenomenal.

"We lost the game last week pure and simple by not posting enough runs and building partnerships, including the tail which is exactly what they did."

According to Wheelahan the hit-out against 'the now' ladder leading Reds was the ideal preparation ahead of the business end.

Ballan CCricket lub

Under 11 Seniors

Ballan 4/74 def Napoleon Sebastopol 6/51

Ballan batted first with Layla Shugg and Kiara Grigg opening. Both were strong in defense and they picked up some very handy runs. The next pair of Ned Conroy and Rhys Vella continued well, pushing the score with some clever running between wickets, Ned made 19 with 3 boundaries.

Katie and Ed Bayard got together with Ed top scoring with 26 with 3 boundaries. There running between wickets was very good. The last pair, Bridie Grigg and Olivia Dowling, did what they were asked, that was try and not go out.

Bowling – N. Conroy 1, K. Bayard 1, Kiara Grigg 1, Ed Bayard 3

Under 13

Ballan 2/113 def Mt Clear 7/112

"Although we didn't get the six points, the game was played with finals intent," he said.

"We certainly need to get a few things right heading into the last game and we're confident the boys are ready to take full responsibility for what lies ahead.

"We're fully committed leaving no stone unturned, particularly with our preparation,"

Wheelahan concluded his Round 16 brief acknowledging the effort of the Reds recovery, eventually reeling in the Lions total after a scare of their own.

"All credit to Wendouree and Heath Pyke's unbeaten 80 to steer them home," he said.

For the record, it was the fifth time in nine innings this season Pyke has remained unbeaten. As a result, the Reds wicketkeeper batsman boasts a healthy 87.5 average from his ten games.

*Don't forget Saturday February 25th - Darley (Parwan) Cricket Club's 40th Anniversary night of nights at the Public Hall, Main Street Bacchus Marsh. For last chance tickets, phone Rod 0400 611 310.

RESULTS

BCA 1st GRADE - (Round 16)

Darley 169, Overs 60.5, Dr Locke 39, H. Wickramasinghe 31. Wendouree 8/170, Overs 73.5. M. Ekanayake 5/45.

Batting - Sarah Burton 32 retired not out, Clover McIlwaine 18 retired not out, Oscar Britt 13 retired not out, Eamon Grigg 13 retired not out

Bowling - Mikey Rawlins 1/7, Jackson Letcher 1/9, Clover McIlwaine 1/12, Mabel Ayres 1/20, Callum Lister 1/23

Under 15

Ballan/Brown Hill 150 lost Creswick 8/209

Bowling - Riley Storer 2/17, Charlotte Wallace 0/9, Jai Singh 0/16, James Bayard 0/22

Batting - James Bayard 3, Charlotte Wallace 1, Jai Singh 0, Riley Storer 0 not out

Under 17

Ballan 58 lost Wendouree 144

Bowling - A Britt 4-0-11-3, M Hoey 6-1-13-3

Batting - N Loft 20, R Lister 13

Ballan First XI (BCA 2nd Grade)

East Ballarat 204 def Ballan 129

Week 2

Darley lost by 2 wickets.

BCA 2nd GRADE - (Round 12)

Buninyong 105 & 8/99, Overs 43. B. Ward 2/11, M. Seager 2/14. Darley 5/250, Overs 60. A. Morton 90*,J.Murphy 51, L. Cornford 34.

Darley WON on 1st innings.

BCA 3rd GRADE - (Round 12)

Darley 185, Overs 54.1. J. Spence 53. Lucas 8/366, Overs 75.1. J. Martindale 4/55, G. Martindale 3/40.

Darley lost on 1st innings.

BCA 4th GRADE - (Round 12)

Darley 88 & 7/106 Overs 40. B. Densley 37, T. Gallagher 25. Brown Hill 181, Overs 50.5. P. Jarvinen 3/42, J. Hynes 3/47.

Darley lost on 1st innings.

BCA 5th GRADE - (Round 17)

Golden Point 6/222, Overs 40. A. Bird 2/36.

Darley 85, Overs 28.2. B. Azzopardi 30.

Darley lost on 1st innings.

Women's League - (Semi Final)

Macedon 5/138, Overs 30.

Darley - In progress.

Batting - Mick Nolan 42, Ryan Lister 29, Jack McGregor 23 Ballan entered the second week in the difficult position of being 2/12 having faced 8 overs last week.

Unfortunately for the boys some tight bowling and fielding from East put the pressure right onto Ballan with consistent wickets falling early to see ballan in real trouble.

Jack McGregor battled hard at the top of the order to give Ballan a chance. But it was an absolutely fantastic innings by young gun, Ryan Lister, in the middle order which gave a better looking scorecard. Lister and Micky Nolan, who again was brilliant, put on a much needed partnership to get a respectable total on the board.

Unfortunately, things just aren't clicking for Ballan at the moment and they found themselves again on the losing side.

Ballan 2nd XI (BCA 4th Grade)

Ballan 10/367 lost Coronet City 9/376

Batting - Param Singh 128 not out, David Leach 74, Max Burton 33, Glenn Easterbrook 19

Bowling - David Leach 13-3-3-68, Max Burton 6-0-1-17

James Bayard bowling for the Brown Hill /Ballan combined side in the U15 comp. Photos – CHRIS THOM

Mickey Rawlins cuts the ball away for the U13s. He scored 6 and also got a wicket. Photos – CHRIS THOM