Moorabool News July 4

Moorabool Environment Group (MEG) member Jodie Valpied said it was an exciting time, and it’s possible the Victorian grassland earless dragon could be living here in Moorabool too.

“There is a chance that it could be here in Moorabool Shire. Moorabool Shire contains suitable basalt plains, temperate grassland habitats, for this little dragon. It is part of its historic range, so it is possible it could still live in Moorabool Shire,

service.”

The location of the rediscovered population is being kept a secret to protect the habitat and the species, but the State and Federal Governments are investing $188,000 to trial specially trained detection dogs to sniff out more dragon populations, and help inform the level of conservation required.

Surveys are ongoing at the rediscovery site, with the State and Federal Governments working with Zoos Victoria to de-

“To best support the recovery of the Victorian grassland earless dragon, we have to know where they are. Detection dogs are an effective and non-invasive way to find this highly cryptic and critically endangered lizard in the wild.” The Victorian grassland earless dragon is listed as critically endangered under the Victorian Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 and the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.

Ballan Local Butccher Winter Warmers!

This adult male Victorian grassland earless dragon was one of several found at the rediscovery site.

Photo - ©Nick Clemann, Zoos Victoria

School to close

and wider community are all very sad. St. Brendan’s have served the community of Dunnstown with Catholic education for over 160 years. Many families have had up to four generations go through the school,” Ms French said.

“Our numbers would be eight next year with no children in Prep, Years 1, 2 and 6. The VRQA standards require no less than 11 children. For a non-government school, such low numbers of students is the reason the decision by DOBCEL was made.”

Art flutters into Blackwood

By Lachlan Ellis

A Blackwood artist has had one of her pieces displayed publicly by Moorabool Shire Council, showcasing themes of connection with the environment, and displaying a local avian resident.

Kathy Holowko’s ‘Water is Life’ has been put up on Martin Street in Blackwood as part of the 2023 edition of Council’s ‘Paste Ups Program’, with the three-dimension diorama depicting fairy wrens nesting by a waterway.

Ms Holowko said it was fantastic to see her work on display in her hometown.

"I live in Blackwood so it’s lovely to be able to contribute a work locally. The artwork is three dimensional, with layers of images and objects utilising the museum trope of the diorama to create a replica of an ecosystem. It includes natural history illustrations captured in the pristine environment of 18th century Australia. I view it as a contemporary interpretation that reflects upon the idea that a healthy waterway is the lifeblood of a habitat, that allows plants and animals to flourish...

including the human animal,” Ms Holowko told the Moorabool News.

We are very lucky in Blackwood to live in animal habitat, that’s the way I see it anyway. The fairy wren is a local resident that provides us with ‘encounter value’ – a scientific term used to describe the meaningful worth in chance meetings with wild animals. It is a way to understand and appreciate these moments that we get to experience because of the life blood that is the Lerderderg River provides.”

Council's Paste Ups Program seeks to create public spaces that are unique and engaging and offer immersive creative experiences for the community.

Other artworks pasted up around Moorabool for the 2023 edition of the program include Adam Bennet’s ‘Beryl’ at The Shambles in Gordon, Min Chiang’s ‘Carnival Undersea’ at First National Rayner in Bacchus Marsh, and Samantha Thompson’s ‘From Above’ at the Ballan Mechanics Institute.

For more information on the Paste Ups Program, visit www.moorabool.vic.gov.au/PUP.

By Lachlan Ellis

A local primary school that has served the community for more than a century has sadly announced that it will ring the bell for the final time, later this year.

St Brendan’s Primary School Dunnstown announced on Monday 19 June that the Diocese of Ballarat Catholic Education Ltd (DOBCEL) had made the difficult decision to close the school at the end of the 2023 school year, after providing the children of Dunnstown and surrounds with quality education for over 160 years.

In a statement, Executive Director of the school, Tom Sexton, said families would “be supported in their preferred school choice for 2024 with a number of alternative Catholic schools within close proximity”.

“Similarly, the staff of St Brendan’s will be fully supported to understand their options and career opportunities, including redeployment within other Ballarat Catholic school, if desired,” Mr Sexton added.

St Brendan’s Principal Inez French told the Moorabool News last week that the decision had unfortunately come about due to low enrolments.

“The staff and community received the news two weeks ago that St Brendan’s would be closing at the end of the 2023 school year. The children, parents, staff,

West Moorabool Ward Councillor Tom Sullivan, whose ward includes Dunnstown, said he was “disappointed and saddened” by the news, but hoped the “resilient” community of Dunnstown would celebrate the school’s achievements over many years.

“It’s unfortunate they were unable to keep it open, it’s sad when you see institutions like that, have been part and parcel of Dunnstown through the good and bad times, to be no more. It highlights the inability for these towns to grow over a long period of time, being in a water catchment. A constraint has been put on townships like Dunnstown, Bungaree, and Wallace, the latter two of which we’ve been trying to get sewerage for,” Cr Sullivan said.

“The limitation of growth is the fundamental, root cause of all this, it didn’t happen overnight. It’s been probably 40 years in the making, with the limitation on growth by the water authorities over that journey, trying to stop any sort of development.”

The school plans to hold celebrations towards the end of the year to acknowledge and reflect on the past 160 years at St Brendan’s.

“We will recognise the valued contributions of past and present families and staff,” Ms French said.

Wilsons Mitre 10 have got you covered with all your cleaning needs inside & out

St Brendan’s Primary School Dunnstown will close at the end of the 2023 school year.

Photos - Submitted

Kathy Holowko’s ‘Water is Life’ is one of five artworks put up in the latest wave for Council’s Paste Ups Program. Photo – The Moorabool News

‘Check out’ street library

By Lachlan Ellis

A new communal library has been launched in Blackwood, with books for both kids and adults planned to fill its shelves. Made possible thanks to a ‘Storm Recovery – Healing Country’ grant from Emergency Recovery Victoria, the Blackwood Street Library was launched at the Blackwood Street Party on Saturday 24 June.

Local business owner Karen Bruno allowed the wooden shelves to be installed on her land, with the Blackwood Progress Association subsidising the signage and Matt from Just 2 Hands building the library.

Jinny Coyle was one of the main organisers of the Blackwood Street Library, and said street libraries were something she was “a bit obsessed with”.

“We got a Storm Recovery Grant earlier in the year, auspiced by Moorabool Shire Council, of $20,000. It was to be used specifically for Healing Country, to be used under consultation with First Nations Elders. It had to be spent by the end of March, so Progress offered to host an Indigenous component at the Easter Carnival,” she told the Moorabool News.

“We wanted to bring around reconciliation in Blackwood, then what was the best way to approach that? The conversation was that it would work really well working through children, educating them so that education goes upwards. At the Easter Carnival we had a Welcome to Country and a smoking ceremony, and then we had Aunty Gail, who’s written a set of books for children, hold storytelling sessions at the Carnival.”

With the small amount of money left over, the idea came about to give First Nations books to local children.

Locals Caitlin Perry, Mel Bodiam, Karen Bruno, and Carol Guthrie helped in the big task of listing local children, with 82 in total counted.

“But if we’re going to do that [get books for local children], where can the books live? Where is accessible for children? Everywhere in Blackwood is either locked or a business…so that was where I came up with the idea of a street library, they’re something I’m passionate about,” Ms Coyle said.

“There’s two components to the Street Library. We’ve collected a list of every child 12 and under in Blackwood, and some from Barrys Reef and Dales Creek who frequent Blackwood. That ended up being 82 books, so we listed out the ages and organised for each book to be age appropriate. There are seven books we’re in the process of giving out at the moment.

“The other component is the Street Library itself. Karen Bruno’s business is right where the bus stop is so it’s really accessible to the kids. I also bought around 30 First Nations books,

and there’s children’s books there but also books for adults about Australia and the forest, there’s bush tucker books, recipe books…all sort of about Healing Country post-storm.”

With the dreary weather at the Street Party, the launch couldn’t be done at the Blackwood Street Library itself, so a soft launch was held last Saturday to hand out books. How the Street Library works, Ms Coyle said, will be up to the community – but she hopes it will be a great community asset, under the philosophy “take a book, give a book, share a book”.

“We’ve got about a quarter full at the moment, so there’s plenty of room for other books to go in. It’s over to the community, it’ll just evolve I’m hoping. If the community want to share some books, that’d be fantastic,” she said.

The Blackwood Street Library project has been contributed to by many local residents. Photo – Submitted

Get informed on floods

New pavilion delay

Ballan residents have been invited to a free session being held by the SES, regarding flood risk and how to prepare and respond to flood incidents.

A drop-in community flood information session will be held from 3pm to 7pm on Friday 7 July at the Ballan Mechanics Hall, with a focus on raising awareness and understanding of flooding and floodwater risks, and the relevance of taking action before, during, and after emergency events.

“These community flood awareness sessions are designed to support residents in understanding their flood risk better and preparing for potential floods. We’re all collaboration, so we’re always eager to listen to locals’ experiences and learn from them, using those insights to enhance our future response in the area,” Mid-West Operations Manager Unit Support, Chris Arnold, said.

“We hope that this work will take the pressure off emergency services during flood events to reduce the need to respond to incidents that could have been

prevented.”

Mr Arnold said Ballan was particularly at risk of flash flooding, and talking to neighbours if you are new to the area is useful in learning about flood risk and where the “high ground” or safer places are nearby.

“Areas within the Ballan area are prone to less predictable flash flooding, which can happen quickly and with little warning,” Mr Arnold said.

“Flash floods can be very deep, rise quickly and move fast, so you need to keep away from trees, drains, culverts and stay off the road during flash flooding to keep you and your family safe.”

If you are unable to attend the drop-in session or just want more information on how to prepare for floods, visit www.ses. vic.gov.au/get-ready.

Remember, never drive through floodwater – just 15 centimetres of flowing floodwater can float a small car, and attempting to drive through floodwater is the number one cause of death in a flood.

The Darley Park Community and Sports Centre has been delayed once again, with water pressure issues to blame this time around.

Last August, Moorabool Shire Council CEO Derek Madden told the Moorabool News that “a number of compliance concerns” at the site had pushed the pavilion’s planned completion date from November 2022 to February/March this year.

In May, Darley Senior President Mark Shelly and Junior President Rohan Matthews released a joint statement thanking the community for its patience, and stating that they hoped “our new facilities will be ready for the first home game scheduled for Saturday 3 June 2023”.

Members of the tenant clubs, and the wider community, have been eagerly awaiting the pavilion’s completion, which until recently was believed to be imminent in the coming weeks – but last Friday, Council announced there’s another spanner in the works.

“Council is working hard with other agencies to resolve unforeseen water pressure issues affecting the Darley Park Community and Sports Centre so we can open the doors to user groups and the community as soon as possible,” Council’s post on social media reads.

“We want everyone using this magnificent new building to be safe and secure, so having a reliable and adequate water supply to the site for fire services to access is crucial. Please be assured Council has advised our service partners and is working with them to find a solution as a priority.”

Council said it shares the frustration and disappointment of user groups and the community, and while it’s looking at “every possible solution to resolve them [the water issues] in the shortest possible time frame, this may take several months”.

“In the meantime, we are committed to making temporary facilities available and offering support to user groups to ensure the grounds can still be used and enjoyed. We’re working closely with the presidents of the user groups onsite to ensure they have what they need to operate at the venue and to support their planned future events,” Council’s statement reads. “We appreciate everyone’s patience as we work through these issues and work to resolve them. We cannot wait to see everyone using and enjoying the building as soon as it is approved to do so.”

According to Council’s website, the Darley Park Community and Sports Centre was originally due for completion in August 2022. Photo – Moorabool Shire Council

Commemorating storm resilience

By Lachlan Ellis

It’s been two years since much of Victoria was devastated by fierce storms, and local communities have marked the anniversary with a street party – just like the one they started after the storm.

In June 2021, the towns of Blackwood, Dales Creek and Barrys Reef were among many that were battered from pillar to post. Destructive winds and torrential rain blew massive trees

down on houses, garages, studios, fences, and powerlines. Huge areas of bushland were levelled, and roads and walking tracks were blocked at every turn.

It was a terrifying experience for residents, with the sound of trees snapping and falling throughout the night, and emergency services stretched beyond capacity, leaving the three towns to deal with the immediate effects themselves. The light of day revealed devastation, and left the towns without power or telecommunications

With only themselves to rely on, the residents got to work, clearing debris, helping one another clear roads and driveways, and sharing spare food and other items.

And eventually, community meetings to share information turned into a street party – which the community emulated at an event on Saturday 24 June.

Blackwood resident Carol Guthrie recalled the original 2021 street party.

“As a part of our collective response, led by Margaret McCarthy, we organised public meetings to share information and work out and provide what was needed. One of these meetings morphed into much much more. It all started with Jerry Dimas. Jerry organised to bring in a mobile food van to feed those who had no power to cook. Then of course the rest of the community swung into action. BBQs appeared along with perishable food that needed to be cooked along with pots of soup, cooked by those who could. Lighting and fire drums arrived. We even had martinis served by Leon, a master cocktail maker. Then of course our wonderful bluegrass musicians turned up. Yes, it morphed into a street party,” she told the Moorabool News.

“But most importantly we came together as individuals who experienced trauma and needed to share our experiences and support each other. To commemorate the June 2021 storm event and celebrate our resilience and efforts to deal with adversity, the residents of Blackwood and surrounding towns in the Moorabool Shire came together on Saturday evening 24 June for another street party. The street party was organised by locals for locals.”

With some rainy weather looking likely, the street party was relocated to St Martin’s Chapel, with “the usual heroes”, such as CFA and many other volunteers, helping get the party ready.

Food was provided by local caterer Rose, and Martin Street Coffee Roasters and the Blackwood Hotel also offered warm, dry venues for locals to enjoy.

“We came together again, gathered around the fire drums, shared food and the odd beverage, were entertained by wonderful musicians, shared more stories and enjoyed the company of a strong, caring, vibrant and resilient community,” Ms Guthrie said.

Residents of the three towns are of course hoping to never experience a storm like the one in June 2021 again, but if they do, there’s no doubt they’ll band together once again.

Be reasonable with noise

By Lachlan Ellis

EPA Victoria has just published a series of handy guidance for small business about complying with noise laws and it’s all about what’s reasonable.

EPA CEO Lee Miezis says the Environment Protection Act 2017 calls for business to take reasonable measures to prevent pollution, including noise.

Businesses can assess noise in two ways, by assessing the quality of the noise using common sense and by using monitoring equipment to assess compliance with noise limits. The guidance explains when you should assess noise using one of the two methods.

“So, along with some absolute limits, we ask whether the noise you make has qualities that make it unreasonable,”

Mr Miezis said.

Qualities that make noise unreasonable include volume and intensity, whether it goes on for a long time, happens often, happens early in the morning or late at night, or has an annoying character such as a high-pitched sound.

“One delivery truck leaving a supermarket near a residential area at 3 pm might be perfectly reasonable, but a fleet of them leaving at 3 am every morning is a different story,” he said.

EPA also considers what’s reasonable when taking enforcement action.

“We use fines and prosecutions to hold polluters to account where necessary, but many noise problems are resolved by providing advice to cooperative businesses or issuing remedial notices that specify actions and a deadline, but don’t involve a fine if the business complies,” Mr Miezis said.

“We are not about shutting down a workshop if the solution is replacing a badly maintained compressor, installing less irritating reverse alarms on forklifts or noise baffles around an exhaust fan.”

EPA’s Applied Noise Framework Guidance Series has been developed to help businesses understand these duties. How they work together, how you can comply with them and how EPA regulates them to protect the health of the community and environment.

The series explains the concept of unreasonable noise, the framework that applies to commercial, industrial and trade noise, and how to minimize risk of harm before it occurs, including risk from noise.

EPA also has a range of practical guides to several noise prevention methods, which can be read at www.epa.vic. gov.au/for-business/find-a-topic/noise/advice-for-businesses/controls.

Industrial sites can be noisy, but the EPA has guides on how to minimise noise pollution. Photo – Troy Mortier, Unsplash

Residents of Blackwood, Dales Creek, and Barrys Reef got together for a street party on Saturday 24 June, two years on from the 2021 storms. Photo – Submitted

5,000 seedlings to be planted

Green thumbs are invited to roll up their sleeves to help plant 5,000 native plants on Sunday 16 July, at the Grow West community planting day, on Wadawurrung Country near Ballan.

Grow West has worked to improve and restore degraded landscapes in the west since 2003. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, over 1.4 million seedlings have been planted, more than 2,500 hectares of land rehabilitated, and in excess of 3,000 volunteers engaged with, during this time.

The success of Grow West – which is one of the longest running restoration programs in Victoria – is due to strong involvement from the community and contributions from partner agencies, including: Melbourne Water, Moorabool Shire Council, City of Melton, Moorabool Landcare Network, Southern Rural Water, Greater Western Water, Parks Victoria and the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA).

To celebrate the 20th anniversary, Grow West will be planting 20,000 seedlings across the landscape during this planting season; 5,000 of these will be planted on the community planting day.

“It’s very exciting to run the community planting day at a location that will improve connectivity through the landscape, link to previous Grow West plantings along the Werribee River, and support several new revegetation projects,” Grow West Coordinator, Lindy MacRaild said.

“By participating in the 2023 planting, the community will be helping to rejuvenate habitat that will benefit wildlife in this river corridor.”

This year, Grow West is partnering with Central Highlands Water and holding the planting day at the Ballan Waste Water Treatment Plant.

“Central Highlands Water (CHW) is proud to partner with Grow West and celebrate 20 years of its landscape restoration program,” Central Highlands Water, General Manager Infrastructure Planning and Operations, Paul Donohue said.

“We are excited to see over 5,000 native seedlings planted at the Ballan Waste Water Treatment Plant on Wadawurrung Country along the Werribee River, which will add further value to ongoing environmental programs currently undertaken in this area.”

An important site in the landscape, with the Werribee River marking the northern boundary, planting will occur along the eastern boundary fence of the property and along an escarpment of a creek that runs into the Werribee River. Planting here will improve connectivity throughout the area, and connect habitat in the rail reserve at the south of the site to the escarpment planting in the north.

Grow West is proud to be partnering with Wadawurrung

Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation which is undertaking site preparation for the planting.

“It is paramount for Wadawurrung to be a part of preparing the site for the planting day, so that land management is right-

fully in the hands of Wadawurrung Traditional Owners,” Greg Robinson, Caring for Country General Manager, Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation said.

“We thank Grow West for including us in the process, this supports our right to access and care for Country, and the delivery of cultural knowledge and services as described in our Paleert Tjarra Dja – Wadawurrung Country Plan.”

The event has been funded through the Victorian Government’s Iconic Urban Waterways grants program, provided for activities that support implementation of the Waterways of the West Action Plan, with support on the day by Melbourne Water, Central Highlands Water, Friends of Werribee Gorge and Long Forest Mallee, Victorian Mobile Landcare Group, Bacchus Marsh Lions Club, 15 Trees and the Victorian National Parks Association.

The Grow West community planting day is on Sunday, 16th July, between 9.30am and 4pm, at the Ballan Waste Water Treatment Plant, Ingliston Road, Ballan. Lunch and refreshments will be provided. To reduce waste, bringing your own plates and cups is requested.

For more information, and to register, visit growwest.com.au.

Funding to prepare for fires

A Moorabool school is among over 300 in Victoria receiving the latest round of State Government grants, to help keep the school safe during bushfire season.

Coimadai Primary School was named one of the recipients on Friday 23 June, receiving part of the more than $8.2 million allocated to nearly 325 schools under the Government’s Bushfire Preparedness Program.

Coimadai Primary has been allocated just shy of $24,195, to support vegetation clearing and activities that reduce the risk of bushfire harm.

Other Moorabool schools receiving funding from the June 2023 round were Balliang East Primary School ($21,205.43), Lal Lal Primary School ($20,137.58), and Mount Egerton Primary School ($18,841.14).

Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas, and Minister for Education Natalie Hutchins, said students across Victoria deserve quality education in a safe environment.

“We’re making sure local schools in Macedon are safe and comfortable – giving our students the best possible settings to learn and thrive in,” Ms Thomas said.

““Every student should have access to a great school no matter where they live, that’s why we’re supporting local schools with the resources they need to make a difference to the educational outcomes of students across the state,” Ms Hutchins added.

“Our record investment in school infrastructure is delivering for our hard-working school communities, while ensuring that right here in Victoria we continue to be recognised as the nation’s Education State.”

Mary-Anne Thomas visited Coimadai Primary for funding of a different kind last year, to upgrade water drainage and improve two ovals. Photo – Office of Mary-Anne Thomas

Photo – Grow West

Combined effort to improve waterway health

Grade 5 students from Bacchus Marsh Primary School have joined with Grow West, Moorabool Shire Council, and the Moorabool Landcare Network planting seedlings to help restore native vegetation along the Lerderderg River in Darley.

The team worked together excitedly and diligently to improve habitat next to the popular walking track along the Lerderderg River near Federation Park.

Grow West, a 20-year-old landscape rehabilitation program, has been so successful in making positive changes to our environment by being able to partner with agencies and the community to work on joint projects like this planting. This planting contributes to the 20,000 seedlings that Grow West will be planting this season to celebrate their 20th anniversary.

“It was fantastic working with such an enthusiastic and engaged group of students and to witness them being so passionate about wanting to improve the environment they live in,” Grow West Coordinator, Lindy MacRaild said.

Coffee is expensive, when you litter

Tossing a disposable cup and lid into the street has cost a local man a considerable amount of money, compared to the refreshment he purchased.

In December last year, a witness reported a car’s number plate to EPA Victoria after seeing him throw the cup out the window in morning Ballarat traffic.

The Lal Lal man will now have to pay $540 in fine and court costs.

He failed to appear when the case came up at Ballarat Magistrate’s Court. He was fined $200 without conviction and ordered to pay $340 in court costs to EPA Victoria.

Unlawfully depositing litter is an offence under Section 115 of the Environment Protection Act 2017, and EPA typically issues around 13,000 litter fines a year, many of them for small items such as food containers or cigarette butts.

Members of the public can report litter and other forms of pollution by calling EPA’s 24-hour hotline on 1300 372 842 or providing details online via their website epa.vic. gov.au and search report pollution.

Keep your home secure

• Lock all windows and doors.

• Ask friends, family, or neighbours to keep an eye on your place and collect any mail and parcels.

• Make it look like someone is home by using timed smart lights.

• Consider installing CCTV cameras or an alarm system. You can also let police know you’ll be away to help keep your home and community safe, by registering your absence at: https://bit.ly/3Pt3KdX. Registration should only take around five minutes to complete.

More information about preventing burglaries during holidays is also available at the link.

Students from Bacchus Marsh Primary School helped plant seedlings along the Lerderderg River. Photos – Grow West

Photo - rethinkdisposable.org

Moorabool Shire Council

Local athletes backed Non-voters pay up

By Lachlan Ellis

The next Ordinary Mee�ng of Council will be held on Wednesday 7 July 2021 in the Council Chambers, 15 Stead St Ballan, star�ng at 6.00 pm

Cases in the Bacchus Marsh Magistrates Court more often include driving offences and thefts, but in the space of about ten minutes at last Friday’s session, over $1000 of fines were issued for failure to vote.

For details on a�endance or to the view the agenda, go to www.moorabool.vic.gov.au

Ante Andrijanic, Memos Aydin, Mitchell Cording, Darryl Kimlin, Amie-Lee Mcauliffe, and Adam Williams all had their cases heard by Magistrate Simon Zebrowski, with Mr Flannery prosecuting for the Australian Electoral Commission.

All six cases were heard ex parte (without the defendants), as all six non-voters had been notified by the AEC that the matters were going to court but didn’t attend.

While the fine for failing to vote is just $20, because the matters had to come to court after two penalty notices, the fine ramped up to the maximum of $222 for each of the accused.

A further cost of $85.75 for filing costs also applied to each accused.

Each accused also had a history from non-voting, from Mr Andrijanic failing to vote in the 2019 and 2022 federal elections, to Mr Cording failing to vote in 2007, 2016, 2019, and 2022.

Magistrate Zebrowski found all six charges proven and ordered the accused to each pay $222 plus $85.75, recording convictions for all six.

The maximum penalty is only applied in cases such as this after an ‘Apparent failure to vote notice’ is issued, allowing an elector to explain why it looks like they didn’t vote, then an ‘infringement notice’ if the previous notice wasn’t responded to or the explanation was not accepted, and you then fail to pay the $20 fine.

MN

Moorabool News

The Moorabool News OFFICE 15 Haddon Drive, Ballan, 3342

EMAIL Editorial news@themooraboolnews.com.au

Advertising sales@themooraboolnews.com.au

Ad copy graphics@themooraboolnews.com.au

EDITOR Helen Tatchel • 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.

Rising sports stars and teams in Bacchus Marsh have received a boost from the State Government, with travel grants provided this month.

Member for Eureka Michaela Settle visited the Bacchus Marsh BMX Club on Saturday 24 June, announcing that the club would receive $1,500 under the Government’s ‘Athlete Pathway Travel Grant Program’, which it will use to fund travel expenses for upcoming BMX events.

Darley’s Electrik DrillDance Inc has also been provided with a grant under the program, with $2,000 to support their travel to the Australian Drilldance Championships.

Ms Settle wished the sporting groups the best of luck in their upcoming competitions. “We’re supporting our local sporting clubs and talented athletes as they pursue their dreams,” she said.

“Congratulations to our sporting stars in Bacchus Marsh and Buninyong who have been awarded these grants, and best of luck for your upcoming events.”

Since 2015, more than 1,700 grants have been awarded totalling more than $3 million, to help teams and individual athletes reach their goals.

For further information on the Athlete Pathway Grant Program, visit sport.vic.gov.au.

Moorabool Shire Council

Council Mee�ng

Commi�ee Mee�ng

Navigators Community Centre Incorporated

Council Mee�ng

Public Mee�ng

Council Mee�ng

Commi�ee Mee�ng

Navigators Community Centre Incorporated Public Mee�ng

Employment

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

The next Ordinary Mee�ng of Council will be held tomorrrow, Wednesday 5 July, 6.00pm in the Ballan Chambers, 15 Stead St, Ballan. The mee�ng is open to the public

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

Employment Tenders

Public Mee�ng

• Economic Development Officer – Part-Time Fixed-Term

Based at Darley

Applica�ons close on Sunday 9 July 2023

Employment Tenders Have Your Say: Female Friendly Strategy

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

Have Your Say

Have Your Say: Female Friendly Strategy

Keep up to date with all our community consulta�ons and opportuni�es to have your say: moorabool.engagementhub.com.au

Planning Permit

Employment Tenders

Planning Permit

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

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

Have Your Say: Female Friendly Strategy

Planning Permit

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

Michaela Settle visited the Bacchus Marsh BMX Club to announce $1,500 in funding on Saturday 24 June. Photo – Office of Michaela Settle

The Manor House

Bacchus Marsh & District Historical Society Inc. / Victorian Heritage Register

A Scottish immigrant, Kenneth Clarke, who had immigrated to Van Diemen’s Land in 1818, was one of the earliest of the pastoralists to follow [John] Batman and [John] Fawkner across Bass Strait. In December 1836, Clarke bought a flock from George Town Tasmania which he then drove along the Maribyrnong River valley in search of new grazing areas on behalf of the Great Lakes Pastoral Company. In 1838, Clarke chose to take control of land in an area now known as the Pentland Hills after conceding his initial holding near the Werribee and Lerderderg Rivers to Captain William Bacchus and his son who had also brought sheep across from Tasmania. Once Clarke had moved on, Bacchus concentrated on consolidating his holdings in the area. He established a head station and built four outstations to ensure possession of an area of a radius of three miles [4.8km] around each hut. In William Darke’s survey of the River Werribee and its tributaries undertaken in 1839-40, a structure is shown on the present Manor House site. The nature of the structure, which was elsewhere referred to as ‘Captain Bacchus’s house’, is not well established, but a brick building on the site possibly pre-dates the existing house.

With the foundation of his status as a retired military officer and English county magistrate to support him, Captain Bacchus quickly developed close social and business connections in Melbourne. He was a foundation member of the influential Melbourne Club, and a member of the

Melbourne Cricket Club and the Pastoral and Agricultural Society of Australia Felix. Captain Bacchus’s commercial activities in Melbourne combined with the success of a number of astute land purchases in the early 1840s enabled him to avoid the depression of 1842 which had adversely affected many of his colleagues. In 1846-47 Captain Bacchus erected a substantial and imposing house of a scale which reflected an image of a suitable dwelling for a country gentleman. Captain Bacchus’s occupation of the Manor House was however, short-lived. In February 1849, Bacchus died

2023 Volunteering Awards now open

Nominations for the Volunteering Awards 2023 are now open, closing Monday 17 July.

The Awards are an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the diversity, impact, and importance of volunteering.

Anyone can nominate. It’s quick and easy, and you’ll help to make sure deserving volunteers and community organisations are recognised for the important contribution they make to our state.

The Volunteering Awards are jointly hosted by Volunteering Victoria and the Victorian Government to acknowledge volunteers giving their time and talents to support their communities.

Nominees will be assessed from July to October, with finalists announced in November, and an awards ceremony to be held in December.

Award categories include, but are not limited to, the Young Volunteer Award, Volunteer Commitment Award, Volunteer Leadership Award, Volunteer Impact Award, Inclusive Volunteering Award, and Grassroots Volunteering Award.

Victorians are invited to nominate inspiring volunteers and outstanding community organisations who use their time and talents in support of people, communities and causes. Anyone can nominate by completing the online nomination form. For more information or to nominate, visit www.volunteeringvictoria.org.au.

at his home, having resided in it for about only two years. Following his death, the house passed into the ownership of his son William Henry Bacchus. W Henry Bacchus chose to live on his Peerewur run rather than move to his father’s property. In 1851 he sold the Manor House to John Atkins and Robert Nalder Clarke. Clarke occupied the house and resided there until 1853 when the whole of the property was leased to the Victorian government for use as a court of Petty Sessions. Following the end of the lease in 1856, the property was sold to James Elijah Crook, the Woolpack Inn’s proprietor. When advertised for sale in 1856, the house was referred to as the Mansion House, rather than the Manor House, but it is not known for what period the house carried that name. The Manor House was occupied by the Crook family for the next ninety years.

The importance of the Manor House as an historic structure was confirmed when in 1959 it became one of the earliest properties to receive a National Trust of Victoria classification. The house went through a series of ownerships before it was sold in 1962 to Dr Pulteney Malcolm and his wife who restored it under the guidance of National Trust honorary architects John and Phyllis Murphy. As one of Victoria’s oldest residences, the Manor House at Bacchus Marsh is a significant element in the township which bears the name of its distinguished first owner.

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 and published letters are at the discretion of the Editor. Send your letter to news@themooraboolnews. com.au

Dear Editor,

Life is only going to get worse under Labor for Victorians from 1 July.

Since 2014, Premier Daniel Andrews and Deputy Premier Jacinta Allan have hit Victorians with 49 new or increased taxes.

In the new financial year, they will continue to slam you with more increases. The cost of living will rise further, with expenses such as paying rent top of mind for many Victorians. Rents have swollen by 30 per cent since 2020, and Labor’s decision to again impose higher taxes and charges on property owners is putting more renters under more financial stress.

At the supermarket, the impact is obvious. Families, on average, are being forced to spend $1565 more on groceries this year than last.

Labor has ignored calls from industry experts for a sensible transition to renewables. Instead of listening to advice, Labor’s leaders locked up gas reserves, leaving Victorians without a transition energy source, and they succumbed to the Greens to prematurely shut down coal power generation. As a result, hardworking Victorians are paying skyrocketing power bills that will go up by a further 25 per cent after 1 July.

Public transport expenses will be growing by 8.7 per cent, with Labor slyly in-

creasing a day pass to $10 – with another rise scheduled for six months’ time. It’s a sad time for drivers, too, with car registrations increasing another $12.50 and licence renewals increasing by $3.40 a year.

And don’t forget Labor is cutting 4000 people from the public service, but hardworking Victorians are paying more tax to service Labor’s highly paid fat cats. Labor continues to push more responsibility and shift more costs onto local councils to prop up a broken state budget, leading to increased council rates of up to 3.5 per cent.

The Nationals were successful in implementing a parliamentary review into Labor’s cost shifting onto local councils in a crucial step to bring rates down and ensure Victorians get value for money. However, Victorians are being punished by Labors incompetence right now and, based on Anglicare Australia statistics, single parents fall $180 short every week and a family of four only has $73 left after paying essential weekly expenses. With taxes and charges continuing to soar, it is obvious why Victorians can no longer afford life under Labor.

Peter Walsh MP Leader of The Nationals

The Manor House, built for Captain Bacchus in the late 1840s. This photo was taken in the 1980s.

Photo – State Library of Victoria

Dingoes, not just a wild dog

By Matt Romania

An organisation committed to the conservation of Australia’s native dingoes is on a mission.

Nestled in the picturesque foothills of Toolern Vale, the Australian Dingo Foundation, a notfor-profit operates the 40-acre Dingo Discovery Sanctuary and Research Centre with a primary aim to correct distorted information, uphold the reputation of dingoes, and continue conversations about how dingo conservation and landholders can coexist.

Kevin Newman from the Foundation said the aim is to educate, conserve and conduct non-invasive research about and for dingoes.

“Despite their significance, dingoes certainly do have a PR problem,” he said.

“Dingoes have unique characteristics, including their breeding cycle, intelligent nature, monogamous relationships, and importantly, their native status in Australia.”

Recent studies support this, showing most dingoes in Australia are purebred, unjustly labeled as ‘wild dogs.’ Dingoes have been integral to Australia for over 5,000 years. As per the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act(EPBC), any animal existing before 1400 AD in Australia is legally considered native. Dingoes fall into this category and are protected on public land, but not on private property or within 3km of private property.

Misconceptions revolving around dingoes

They are not just wild dogs; they’re a separate species with unique behavioural and physiological characteristics. Dingoes don’t pose a significant threat to humans and avoid human contact unless habituated.

• They aren’t responsible for large scale livestock deaths - domestic dogs and foxes often have a greater impact.

• Most importantly, they are indeed native to Australia, their genetic diversity varying across different regions.

Mr Newman said conservation of dingoes is vital, given their ecological importance in Australia.

“The dingo’s role in indigenous dreamtime stories underscores their cultural significance, contributing to their status as an iconic Australian species. As the apex land mammal in Australia, the dingo plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of nature by controlling populations of large herbivores and introduced pests. Their importance is recognised by their listing as a threatened species under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 and the Wildlife Act 1975.”

Learn more about the Australian Dingo Foundation’s work - or get involved as volunteer or sponsor - at https://dingofoundation.org

Round 5 Community Grant & Scholarship Fund

Round Five of the Community Grant fund will be a joint round for Moorabool North and South. Applications will be opening 21st July.

Community Grant

Aimed to offer financial support for projects that will provide lasting benefits, promote positive and long-term results for the local community and promote sustainability.

Scholarship Fund

Applications will be welcomed from eligible students. Scholarships can be awarded to a community member undertaking studies from any age, for any level of education (e.g. primary, secondary, tertiary) and will be decided based on eligibility and the selection criteria noted in the guidelines.

Landscape and Visual Screening Program

Owners of residential dwellings within 4km of the 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.

The program is now closed for Moorabool North and will end on 30th Sept 2023 for Moorabool South. Please contact us if you have not previously participated and would like to register your interest.

Moorabool Wind Farm Sponsorship Project with Moorabool Land Care

Kevin Newman and Pumba

Photo - Australian Dingo Foundation)

Winter weather a potential hazard

Wood transport no excuse

ly, I had to transport some wood’.”

On the second occasion, Mr Stephenson was caught driving a Ford Territory without number plates or a licence at around 4.45 am, while on bail with a curfew condition that said he was not to be out past midnight.

Victorians are being urged to prioritise road safety and remain cautious of changing conditions this winter holiday period.

Following a tragic beginning to school holidays on Victorian roads, the Transport Accident Commission is reminding motorists to remain vigilant as the winter months can bring unpredictable road conditions.

With 154 lives lost on the state’s roads this year, authorities are calling for caution on the roads, with winter weather bringing potential hazards like black ice, fog, rain, and landslides.

Less than a week into the winter school holiday period, six lives have already been lost on Victorian roads – more than half of the total number of people (10) who died on Victorian roads during the 2022 mid-year school holidays.

TAC Acting CEO, Tony Dudley, warned of the challenging driving conditions that winter weather can bring and urged road users to keep safety front of mind at all times.

“These school holidays and beyond, we encourage motorists to stay alert, and plan their journeys ahead of time – in bad weather or unfamiliar surroundings, sticking to main roads and highways can be a safe option,” Mr Dudley said.

“It’s always best to try and avoid driving in severe weather but, if we find ourselves in difficult conditions, it is safest to slow down, be patient, be visible and look out for others on the roads.”

With shorter days and darker conditions,

it’s also critical that motorists use their headlights in low light and be vigilant of other road users – while cyclists and pedestrians are encouraged to be visible through safe road positioning, wearing bright or reflective clothing when riding, and always crossing at the safest point.

Drivers are also encouraged to regularly inspect tires, brakes, lights, and wipers, and consider snow tires or chains for enhanced grip on slippery surfaces.

“It’s been a tragic year on our roads and, regardless of weather conditions, our message is to always put safety first when behind the wheel – the choices we make could be the reason we and others get home safely,” Mr Dudley said.

Victoria Police will continue to have a strong presence on the roads these school holidays, with a particular focus on risk-taking behaviours like speed, drink and drug driving, distractions, seatbelt non-compliance and fatigue.

To further support enforcement efforts, the Transport Accident Commission’s current campaign ‘Anywhere, Anytime, Anyone’ is highly visible across the state, deterring road users from engaging in unsafe behaviours –reminding people that if they take risks on the road, they will get caught.

Victorians will continue to see and hear this campaign on billboards, television, radio and digital platforms across the state over the coming months.

By Lachlan Ellis

Taking wood to his uncle’s place in Lara has not gotten a Bacchus Marsh driver off the hook for disqualified driving, and breaching a COVID stay-at-home order in the process.

Three matters concerning Craig Stephenson came before the Bacchus Marsh Magistrates Court on Friday 30 June, with Mr Stephenson pleading guilty to driving while disqualified, breaching a COVID stay-at-home order, and breaching bail.

“On the 7th of June 2021 at around 8.30 pm, police observed the accused driving a Holden Commodore, towing a trailer on Bacchus Marsh Road in Balliang. He was intercepted by police, checks revealed he was a disqualified driver. He was disqualified at the Werribee Magistrates Court in 2019 from obtaining a licence for a period of 4 years,” Police Prosecutor Leading Senior Constable Sinfield said.

“The accused informed police he was transporting a large quantity of wood, was not aware of COVID restrictions in place…due to poor weather at time, and the accused transporting his heavily pregnant girlfriend, police did not impound the vehicle, and he was released pending summons.

“When asked his reason for driving while disqualified he said ‘No reason real-

Finally, on the third occasion, Mr Stephenson was intercepted on the 11th of May last year under the same disqualification period, in an unregistered Jeep Grand Cherokee, with the registration having expired on 30 January 2022.

“He acknowledged he didn’t have a licence…the reason for driving unregistered ‘driving my dog to the vet’,” Leading Senior Constable Sinfield said.

Mr Stephenson said he had been “stuck out on a farm since I got out of jail in November 2021”, and his dogs had cost him $20,000 in vet fees, with one of them having “gotten out and lost an eye”.

He told Magistrate Simon Zebrowski of the difficulties he had faced in life, including having a special needs child who needed special care, and having lived in a caravan with no running water, using a generator for power.

The Magistrate took sympathy with Mr Stephenson’s personal circumstances, choosing not to apply a heavy penalty.

“I’m going to convict and fine you a limited sum of $500. I’m not going to affect your licence, because it’s probably in your best interest to do something and get your licence and drive, but not keep getting into trouble,” the Magistrate said.

“And when you drive a car, make sure it’s got number plates on it too.”

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 and published letters are at the discretion of the Editor. Send your letter to news@themooraboolnews.com.au

Dear Editor,

Roses to Council for finally getting the bus stop and shelter installed on Griffith Street opposite Providence Village. This is now widely used by the community.

Except, how are the elderly to cross the road without the pedestrian refuge, that was also earmarked for installation.

Come on Council, finish the job.

Sylvia Merry, Maddingley

ATTENTION – Local Business Owners

ENGINEERING

ROSSCO ENGINEERING AND SALES

0418 301 841 www.rosscoengineering.com.au

APC Notice

1. Obligation to publish – Designated Resolution 5

5. Publication of notices about the Council

GARDENING SERVICES

(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.

2. 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.

HANDYMAN

BANG4BUCK

Handyman Services

Painting and Repairs

Tile and Grout Sealing

Caulking & Sealing All Types

Fly Screen Replacements

Door Locks Fitted

Rat and Wasp Traps

DownPipes Replaced

And Much More Just Ask CALL FRANK 0427 184 808

0428 042 985 | 0448 925 551 dalescreekmowingservice@gmail.com

ABN 23 565 633 680

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.

CONTACT SERVICES

Stump Grinding | Landscaping | Acreage Mowing Weed Control | Chainsaw Work | Pressure Washing Gutter Cleaning | Handyman | General Garden Works NDIS Plan Managed Gardening Services Available

FULLY INSURED INVOICING AVAILABLE

LAWN MOWING

Ballan Lawn Mowing Affordable•Local•Reliable

For all your Lawn and Garden Maintenance needs. Call 0436 350 442 for a free quote.

ANDY

ROOFING

DEATH NOTICE

CROSS (nee Marsden) Barbara

09/11/1942 – 25/06/2023

Beloved Wife of Philip (dec)

Loving Mum of Jacqueline and Angela.

Mother-in-law of John and Anthony.

Adored and devoted Gran of Mitchell, Stephanie, Tarni and Brant.

Always in our hearts

EMPLOYMENT

Apprenticeship: Wood Technology (Cabinet Making / Joinery)

Paarhammer Windows-Ballan

Full time

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

• Good Maths skills

• Good communication skills

• Ability to follow instructions

• Reliability

• Willingness to learn

Email your resume & details to: info@paarhammer.com.au

DEATH NOTICE

De SPIRT – Taylor Leigh

15/5/1990 – 26/6/2023

Much loved daughter of Daniel and Sheridon. Adored sister of Ash and Josh. Step daughter of Ron. Much loved grand daughter to Nanna Lorraine. Loved and cherished niece and cousin to many.

“We Mit You”

FUNERAL NOTICE

CROSS – (nee Marsden)

The Funeral Service for the late Mrs Barbara Cross will be held at Michael Crawford Funeral’s Chapel, 226 Main Street Bacchus Marsh on WEDNESDAY (July 5, 2023) commencing at 10.00am. At the conclusion of the service the Funeral will leave the chapel for the Maddingley Cemetery, Bacchus Marsh.

The Service for Barbara will be Live Streamed and available to view on our website: michaelcrawfordfunerals.com.au (Select –Funeral Live Stream)

michaelcrawfordfunerals.com.au

5367 6733

FUNERAL NOTICE

De SPIRT – Taylor Leigh

The Funeral Service for the late Taylor Leigh De Spirt will be held at Michael Crawford Funeral’s Chapel, 226 Main Street Bacchus Marsh on Wednesday (week) July 12, 2023 commencing at 11am. A Private Cremation Will Follow.

The Service for Taylor will be livestreamed and available on our website: michaelcrawfordfunerals.com.au (Select – Funeral Notices)

Bacchus Marsh Ballan

APC Notice

Obligation to publish – Designated Resolution 5

michaelcrawfordfunerals.com.au

Publication of notices about the Council

5367 6733

Central Highlands Region Water Corporation has resolved to set the following water and wastewater tariffs, fees and charges for the period commencing 1 July 2023 and continuing until notice is given of a new tariff. The tariffs, fees and charges are normally due for payment no later than 28 days after the date of issue for the notice. Payment of the accounts can be made at any of the Corporation's offices or by any means described on the account. Late payment of any amount due may bear interest at the prescribed rate as set in accordance with the Water Act (1989) as from the date due until the amount is paid.

Basis of Calculation: Access Fee: The appropriate Access Fee indicated below is divided by 366 days then multiplied by the number of days in the billing period.

Water Volume Charge: A two tiered tariff pricing structure

Charge $64.88 per annum.

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

MN Moorabool News

PUBLIC NOW ONLINE go to www.themooraboolnews.com.au

(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.

This charge is collected on behalf of Melbourne Water, who use the funds to look after rivers and creeks and manage drainage and floodplains in your area. Please contact Central Highlands Water on 1800 061 514 for any enquiries regarding your account, current prices or available concessions. GST does not apply to water and wastewater prices. A full schedule of current charges including miscellaneous fees and charges is available on the Central Highlands Water website at www.chw.net.au.

NOTICE OF AGM of the Bacchus Marsh Cricket Club

Form and content determined by the Council – Council decision

Wednesday 26th July 2023 at 7.00 pm

Maddingley Park Social Rooms

[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.

ANGLE GRINDER WorkZone 93549 EC.

$50 – 0412 741 865

ASICS

Women's runners Gel-excite 7

AWL grey/silver (US 8 1/2). Worn once.

In box EC $40 - 0408 872 293

BED SIDE DRAWERS (3 drawers) timber stained $15 – 0409 186 576

COUCH 3 SEAT, club style, separate seat / back cushions, GC FREE – 0419 565 406

CRYSTAL BASKET W25cm x H23cm, EC . $20 - 0417 356 908

FAN, Coleman, rechargeable with lights, NEW $75 – 0412 076 999

HUTCH low-rise, 4 drawer, dark brown GC FREE, pick up only – 0455 480 196

LAWNMOWER Masport just serviced, starts easy, GC $90 0458 644 633

LAWNMOWER 3.5hp weed-eater, runs well. starts easy, with catcher $90 0458 644 633

SHOPPING TROLLEY, 4 wheels, brand new $80 – 0417 110 261

SUNBEAM MIXMASTER, EC, hardly used, $50 – 0417 110 261

SHOPPING TROLLEY, floral 4 wheels, NEW $80 – 0417 110 261

TRAILER 6x4 not pretty but functions, FREE 0437 459 615

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

BICYCLE RACK, 3 bikes, attaches to tow bar GC $35 – 0411 741 999

BINOCULARS Zivitar $45- 0423 190 097

BLENDER Mistral new $25 0417 110 261

CHESS SET, Pieces 4” high, Asian made in case $70 0458 644 633

FOOTSTOOL Kcare. Adjustable height, tilt top, for elderly/disabled person, EC. $40 - 0417 356 908”

FUTON FANTASTIC 2 seater grey plush FREE -0409 850 931

GUTTER GUARD - black - 8 rolls 180mm x 8m $20 – 0409 186 576

HEADPHONES Sony Noise Cancellation $45 – 0423 190 097

MUSIC STAND Heavy duty, used once $20 - 0401 418 732

POTTERY DINNER SET handmade for 4, brown tones, dinner, side plates, dessert, pasta bowls, mugs, spare pieces, EC. $50 - 0417 356 908

PRINCESS BED, single, canopy, white and gold, steel, four posts, with mattress, $90 – 0412 076 999

TV/VIDEO CABINET on castors, 4 door. stained wood, 60cms H x 97cms W x 40cms D, $30 ONO - 0405 003 487

WORK SHORTS hard yakka size 92R

Brand new $7 – 0423 252 922

240VLT Vacuum Garden cleaner/ blower Gardenline GC, $30 0412 076 999

Central Highlands Netball League

Aussie trotter off to USA

By Tim O'Connor (HRV)

Well-known Victorian horseman Brad Chisholm is set to play a crucial role in Aldebaran Zeus’ tilt at the MGM Yonkers International Trot in New York.

Chisholm, who has more than 170 winners as a reinsman, recently left the stables of Andy Gath to travel overseas and is currently in the United States working for top trainer Richard “Nifty” Norman.

Aldebaran Zeus will be based out of Norman’s stables during his stay in the US and Chisholm is expected to help prepare the five-year-old squaregaiter for his shot at the $US1million feature on September 9.

Trainer Brent Lilley told SENTrack that Chisholm previously worked at his stable and the arrangement would allow him to continue working the big team in Bolinda during much of Aldebaran Zeus’ time abroad.

“(Brad’s) over there now working for one of the leading trainers in Nifty Norman, so they said we're more than welcome to stay with them, which is great,” Lilley said.

“And obviously with running a big operation back here, it will mean that I don't have to be there the whole time with him.

“I'll leave Brad and Nifty in charge in my absence while I'm back home and I'll get back over for the big race.”

Lilley said Aldebaran Zeus was booked to leave Australia late this month.

“He flies to Chicago on the 31st of July, has a week in quarantine there and then he'll be out of quarantine virtually five weeks before the

race, so that sort of gives him plenty of time to get back up to speed,” he said.

"We won’t be racing before the race, but he will possibly trial here before he leaves and also trial a week or 10 days before the Yonkers Trot over there, all going well.”

The star trotter is now back in Victoria following a five-start New Zealand campaign which ended with a sixth placing in the Group 1 Rowe Cup at Alexandra Park on May 26.

Aldebaran Zeus won his first appearance overseas in the Group 2 Waikato Flying Mile, but was unable to do better than fifth in his next four runs across the Tasman.

The son of Muscle Hill boasts a career record of 18 wins and almost $420,000 in prizemoney.

Two starts ago, he defeated Just Believe in the Group 1 Hammerhead Trotters Mile at Menangle before that horse went overseas and performed so admirably in Sweden.

RESULTS – ROUND 10

Dunnstown v Carngham Linton

13 & Under B

Dunnstown 4 lost C’ham/Linton 6

Awards - Oakley Munday, Aubrey Harvey & Sadie Wilson

13 & Under A

Dunnstown 16 def C’ham/Linton 0

Awards - Billie Donald, Isaac Morris & Adelaide Donald

15 & Under

Dunnstown 18 lost C’ham/Linton 22

Awards - Lyna Begbie, Anna Jones & Neve Griffith

17 & Under

Dunnstown 24 def C’ham/Linton 15

Awards - Brooke Peart, Meg Cahir & Enna Rinaldi

C Grade

Dunnstown 16 lost C’ham/Linton 29

Awards - Milla Rinaldi, Charlotte Austin-Lund & Jess Johnson

B Grade

Dunnstown 26 def C’ham/Linton 11

Awards - Amy O’Loughlin, Meg Cahir & Emma Learmonth

A Grade

Dunnstown 66 def C’ham/Linton 35

Awards - Liz Carson, Stacey Edge, Maddi Peterkin & Rhiana Collins

** This week – Dunnstown v Creswick (H)

Dunnstown Netball Charlene smiles again after Angel win

By Tim O'Connor (HRV)

A win at Victorian harness racing headquarters with her much-loved gelding Hes Charlies Angel was just the tonic for injured trainer-driver Charlene Gusman last Saturday night at Tabcorp Park Melton.

Gusman is currently recovering from broken ribs sustained in a serious race fall at Shepparton on June 11, and watched on as her partner David Miles guided the four-year-old pacer to a long-awaited victory in the Alabar Vicbred Pace.

The win was the sixth of his career and first since a Vicbred Super Series semi-final late last year.

Miles used TrotsVision to provide an update on Gusman’s condition in the moments after the triumph.

“We didn't get off the track until an hour and a half after the race,” Miles said.

“She's doing remarkably well. She's got four broken ribs and as we all know with ribs, you don't want to sneeze, cough or laugh. And I don't know how much cheering she would have been doing then.

“Trying to keep her away from the horses and not do anymore damage is probably the hardest part.”

Miles sent Hes Charlies Angel to the front when the dust settled on the early speed battle and was able to control Saturday night’s race from the head of proceedings.

He looked under siege in the straight, but dug deep in the shadows of the post to hold off Ozzie Playboy and Rocknroll Walla in a three-way photo.

“He was very good tonight,” Miles said.

“He's probably not quite as good in front. He knocks off, he wants to zig-zag a little bit, he sort of run away from them at the top of the straight and it wasn't until right near the line where he saw those horses inside his dolly vardens that he actually stuck his head back out again in the last 10 strides and came again.”

Gusman bred and owns the horse, who is named after her late father Charlie.

Miles said the son of Sweet Lou was set to depart for the Queensland winter carnival on Monday.

“He's headed for The Rising Sun, whether he gets a run or not because he's been out of the winner's circle for so long... but there's a $50,000 consolation on and I think there's a J C McMullen Memorial after that, so he's got a couple of races up there that aren’t worth sneezing at,” he said.

Photo - Tim Saultry

Hes Charlies Angel with David Miles in the sulky, score a long-awaited win (Photo –Stuart McCormick)

Aldebaran Zeus is off to the USA at the end of July (Photo – Stuart McCormick)

ROUND 11 JULY 8

BACCHUS MARSH V BALLARAT

Great day of interleague footy at a balmy Ballarat last Saturday!

Well done to Jacob Martin and Cody Salmon representing the under 17 BFNL, Jacob named Captain of the side.

Great work Jack Parente on being named Vice Captain of the Under 23s and playing a solid role accross Half Back.

Well done Cooper James as Goal Umpire in the Under 23 game, no controversial decisions today!

Well done boys, terrific achievements!

And a shout out to Spence Jenks on the special comments as part of the broadcast, and Frank Pav in the coaches box for the BFNL.

Great day!

We also congratulate all players and officials across our Club and all clubs on their selection and support of the Interleague round.

Next Senior Games are on the weekend July 8 and we travel to Ballarat to take on the Swans. We wish all the teams all the very best for this round.

Our Netballers are also out and about on the weekend of July 8 and we also wish them all the very best.

SPONSORS

The Bacchus Marsh Football & Netball Club Inc. would like to thank and acknowledge our sponsors who continue to support this vital club in the town.

Calix as our Platinum Sponsor supporting in particular women’s sport and appropriate amenities for them. We continue to work with the Moorabool Shire in providing a safe, accessible and welcoming environment.

Gold Sponsors of the club are – Don Watson Transport and Calleja Group and our Silver Sponsors Alan Mance Motors Bacchus Marsh, Arch Electrical, Bacchus Marsh Towing, Omega Electrical & Data Services, Regional Tyre Service & SOHO Living.

We thank all of our Sponsors for their ongoing support of the Club.

COMING UP:

July 15: Bacchus Marsh V Melton at Maddingley Park

BFLW Senior V Lake Wendouree Sunday July 9 at Maddingley Park

Juniors V Mount Clear Sunday July 9 at Mount Clear

UPCOMING CLUB SOCIAL EVENTS

Saturday August 12 – iPod Shuffle @ Maddingley Clubrooms

Saturday August 26 – Jazz & Shiraz @ Maddingley Clubrooms

Bacchus Marsh Little Athletics

Bacchus Marsh Baseball Club

RESULTS - Round 10

Bacchus Marsh 2 drew East Belmont Saints 2

It was a tightly contested match at Masons Lane, Bacchus Marsh with both teams showing off their pitching strengths.

Jon Bell started for Bacchus Marsh Tigers and was solid once again with one run scored off an error. Shannon Hornstra was in relief, also allowing 1 run across 5 innings. Both combined for 10 strikeouts and 6 hits allowed. Saints pitching was also strong with only 4 hits for the Tigers.

Saints scored in the first and sixth innings with the Tigers tying the game off a Shannon Hornstra double in the bottom of the sixth. A strong outing for both teams in a low-scoring battle

Under 9/10 athletes tackling jumps during their 1.5k event (Photo – BMLAC)

Week 10 of the BMLAC Cross Country season saw athletes return to Bullengarook Recreation Reserve for their weekly competition. Although in the middle of school holidays, attendance numbers were still very good. Athletes enjoyed competing over courses that started and finished on the flat reserve oval while racing over various horse jumps scattered through the tranquil bushlands.

The Under 6 athletes were the first scheduled race. Leaders Jude Brody-Wall (BM) and Sahib Cheema (Melt) continue to have a great battle, as do Melton teammates Olivia Anikeev and Zyah Cameron. While Jude continued his winning streak for the boys, it was Anikeev that finished strongly for the girls, claiming her first win for the season.

The Open age athletes completed 3 laps of the 1km course. It was tough grueling grind for all athletes but competition up front between Jujhar Tamber (Melt) and Nicholas Ibrahim (BM) saw the lead chop and change throughout the race. Although Nick fought it out to the end it was Jujhar that held on with a sprint finish to claim the win. Lachlan Simons (BM) and Mia Preddy (Melt) also had a tight tussle, with both pushing each other over the entire race. Emma Stewart (BM) continues to work on her endurance, and this week recorded a PB for her 3kms.

The Under 7 & 8 athletes contested the 1km course and it was Fletcher Reid (Melt) that took the early lead before heading out into the bushlands. Rylee Robinson (BM) was determined to keep in touch and closely followed over the first jump before attempting the demanding hill climb. Chayse Johnson put in a solid run and closed the gap on the down hill trail before a sprint finish between Fletcher and Chayse saw Fletcher hold onto the win recording a PB time of 4:02.46 mins.

Rylee’s fast start saw her also rewarded with a PB. Melton’s Mckinley Wilson and Gisborne’s Olivia Callister also recorded PBs, as did new member Madeleine Dragic (BM).

The Under 9/10 events are always compelling, with athletes pushing each other over the entire 1.5km distance. These athletes are certainly benefiting from the weekly competition, and many will be keen for the upcoming Region Carnival later in the month. Emilia Ibrahim (BM) and Archer Morris (Ballarat) claimed the wins for the Under 9’s while Joshua Askew (BM) and Anni Clarke (BM) were the winners for the Under 10 age group.

Miller Clark (BM), in his first season of Cross Country, continues to be a big improver, as does Evelyn Grant (BM), both being rewarded with big PB’s this week. Kobe Lewis (Melt) continues to grow in strength, also recording a PB result.

The final race for the morning saw the Under 11 & 12 athletes complete 2 laps of the 1km course. A fast start from Mitchell Elmer (Melt) saw him lead out the field before heading over the first jump and tackling the grueling hill climb. Ella Preddy (Melt) was close on his heels with Iyla Robinson (BM) and Logan Simons (BM) in contact with the leaders. Logan took advantage of the downhill bush trails, and on the oval flat managed to take the lead before heading back out for the final kilometre. Logan produced his best run this season, claiming a well-deserved victory in a PB time of 7:53.39mins. Iyla also ran a PB and was declared the winner for the Under 11 girls while Melton athletes Ella Preddy and Guntaj Mangat were the first Under 12 athletes to cross the finish line. Chord Wilson (Melt) ran a fantastic race and was rewarded with a 12 second PB.

** This week’s competition will be held at Bostock Reservoir, Ballan.

Ballan Golf Club

Results - W/e Saturday 2 July

Wednesday – Stableford

Winner - Bill Pickering (20) 38 points.

R/up - Barry Sims (12) 37 points.

Magpie - 14th Frank Raffaele.

NTPs - 12th Don Wickson, 15th Barry Sims.

Sunday – Stroke – Monthly Medal

A GRADE

Winner - Damian Toohey 73-9-64.

Central Highlands Football League

RESULTS – Round 10

R/up - Rick Roden 78-12-66. B GRADE

Winner of Monthly Medal Gerard Clifford 83-26-57.

R/up - Denis Conroy 82-16-66.

- 12th Bob Ross, 15th Jason Bonar. Magpies - 14th Anthony Moore, 18th Damian Toohey. Balls 4, Cut-off 66 on c/b Gerard Clifford, Damian Toohey, Rick Roden, Denis Conroy.

Shannon Hornstra pitching for the BM Tigers – (Photo - Greg Tinkler ©)

Photo - Tim Saultry